May 22, 1998

WE HIST SOCIETY 1500 R ST LINCOLN HE 68508-1651

Celebrating More Than 75 Years of Service Vol. LXXV

No. 35

Omaha, NE

26 Iyar, 5758

May 22,1998

Livingston Foundation creates educational Goldbw00idBelgrade

endowment fund in honor of Yale Richards "For almost 25 years, Yale Richards has diligently served the Livingston Foundation as its legal counsel and executive director," said Robert Kully, president of the private foundation. "In addition, -during his 50 years in the practice of law, he has made significant contributions to the Omaha Jewish community both as an attorney and as a dedicated community leader.",: • To recognize Richards' years of service and to honor him on his 75th birthday, the Livingston Foundation has chosen the occasion of its own 50th Anniversary to announce the establishment of the "Yale Richards Professional Education Endowment Fund.";: The new fund will be a permanent endowment, the income from which will enable the-Jewish Federation Foundation jto hold seminars for professionals, such as attorneys, accountants, financial planners, investment advisers, insurance consultants and others, to inform them of current estate and tax planning strategies for charitable giving.

It is intended that these seminars will educate professionals to encourage their clients to make charitable contributions in the context of their estate planning, and to consider the Federation, its agencies and affiliates, and other organizations and institutions within the Jewish community, as potential recipients.

According to Murray Newman, one of the Livingston Foundation Trustees, "The establishment of the Yale Richards Fund not only is meaningful to Yale, but will also benefit the Jewish community far into the future. For many years, Yale has been involved in helping his clients to understand the benefits ot planned giving. This Fund is a marvelous way to honor him."

Sheldon Bernstein, who recently retired as Endowment Director of the Federation Foundation, said, "The formation of several of our prominent funds is the result of the encouragement of Yale Richards."

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In praising .

Richards, Newman said, "He's been a tremendous counsel. He's given sound advice and has | been a superb i liaison with the Jewish Federation. He has handled all administrative affairs of the Livingston Foundation in a meticulous Yale Richards manner."

Richards, a senior partner in the law firm of Marks Clare & Richards, has served several terms on the Jewish Federation Board of Directors, as well as the Boards of Jewish Senior Services as Vice-president and currently as Treasurer, of ADLCRC, as Chairman of Jewish Family Service, and on various committees in connection with the constructioji of the Jewish Community Center, the Blumkin Home and the Livingston Plaza Apartments. He has worked on the Federation's annual campaign for over 50 years.

Additionally, Richards was a founder and the "second president of-Gornhusker.1 Lodge of B'riai B'rith and Vice-President of Beth El Synagogue.

He is also a trustee of the Goldsten Trust, another charitable foundation.

The Yale Richards Professional Education Endowment Fund will be an extension of the Livingston Foundation's long-time connection to the Federation Foundation and a commitment to its future. , _ .. . <« (Continued on page 2)

Omaha represented at inaugural meeting

When the lights are off...

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community, Cindy Goldberg and Bob Belgrade have been named this year's recipients of the Jewish Federation of Omaha's Lois Jeanne. Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award and the Justin Greenberg Memorial Young Leadership Award, respectively. The awards will be presented at the Federation's annual meeting on June 24 at the Jewish Community Center. : ; Among her many contributions to the community, Goldberg has been active with the Women's Annual Campaign; has served as a chairman of Super Sunday, as a board member of JFS.and has volunteered; with the A n t i -Defam a t i o n iLeague and the JCC's IChild Development „ , _ . , , • 'Committee. She is curCmdy Goldberg rently p r e s i d e n t of t h e National Council of Jewish Women-Omaha Section and for the past nine years has served in a variety of capacities for that organization.

Other community involvement includes the Nebraska AIDS Project, Junior League of Omaha, and volunteer work with District 66. Goldberg and her husband, Bruce, are the parents of two sons. She is the daughter of Marty and Joanie Lehr. ' Winner of the Justin Greenberg Award, Bob Belgrade is an active member of the Jewish Community Center board, co-chairing its Health and P.E. Committee, serving on its budget committee and long-range planning committee and chairing the JCC Golf Outing. He is currently vice-president of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, works as a Russian resettlement volunteer and has served on the Bob Belgrade Federation Library board.

His community involvement has also included volunteering in the Child Life Department at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and with District 66 and the Westside Schools Foundation.

He is the son of Sandra Belgrade and the late Eddie Belgrade.

Rabbi Paul Drazen attended the initial meeting of the North American Boards of Rabbis in.New York last week. In addition to his role as spiritual leader of Omaha's Conservative. Beth El Synagogue, he is chairman of the Nebraska Rabbinical Council.

Y "It appears to be a kind of secret that rabbis across the continent work together despite theolog- ...the kids will play! During last week's thunical differences," Rabbi Drazen said on his return, der storm, CDC staff entertained little ones in "Boards of rabbis already are cross-denominational the hallways of the JCC. and the statement of purpose for the establishment of NABOR is on the agenda of these local boards Child Development Center at heart of JCC rejuvenation for review at future meetings."

by Rebecca Perelman . •'. accommodate the up-graded facility. The program In addition to addresses from Dore Gold, Israeli is known as Reggio, which is an Italian philosophy Federation Communications Intern v Ambassador to the United Nations, and Marlene of child care and education.

1 Post, National President of Hadassah, the, group A premier Child Development Center-(CDC) will "We researched several of the new facilities in the also heard from Dr. Eugene Fisher, head of, the be,the heart of the renovation project for the United States to see what influences had the greatNational Conference of Catholic.Bishopsv-Dr. Omaha Jewish Community Center. A new struc- est impact on the architecture as well as the child Fisher focused on the changes which have taken ture will be built where the current tennis courts care and education,* said Wendy Greenberg.place in Catholic views of Judaism. '"• are located with.a planned start date scheduled for The committee found Reggio as being the inpst According to Rabbi Drazen, Dr. Fisher'"qffered- fall of 1998, Along with the GDC's relocation comes repeated and influential program among JCCs.: r the thought that many of the 'difficulties'en'coiin- , the continuous commitment of a quality child care "We want to adapt departs of Reggio that fit our tered in ihterfaith dialogs stem from each group and educational philosophy. v:. philosophy," said Carlson, :"ri6t all of Reggidyjust speaking in its own religious, terms." ;. .".,•:. Nancy Carlson has been the CDC's Education the best parts." .-,- ;-•;•"'.'•' Perhaps that statement could be applied to: and Resource Specialist for ten years. She is workOne of the most critical points of Reggio is to "cregroups within' Judaism as well, he added.: ;;:.•:' ing closely .with architect Mark Sanford and a vol- ate a homelike environment", according to Carlson.

When asked of the, outcome of the conference, unteer committee headed by Wendy Greenberg.

This will be partly done with a commons area Rabbi Drazen noted that perhaps a "coalition of Carlson said, The educational philosophy is to built in the entrance of the facility to draw people Boards of Rabbis can be established through continue active learning in a play centered program together for different activities. A Western Wall • NABOR to promote the same kind of dialog which with Judaic emphasis throughout the year."

- and archways in this area will add Israeli flavor. In successfully takes place on our local level."

A new approach to this philosophy is planned to addition, both the younger age children, infants (Sec editorial on page 5) (Continued on page 2)

Page.2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 22,1998

— Nobody's Closer Titan . . .

ur aome ur aome our name 333-78OO

Sparks from the Word

'We Are One!'

—

by Rabbi Mendel Katzman Guest Columnist

Shalom Uverachahl On Shavuot, we celebrate the most momentous event in the history of the world-the Revelation at Mt. Sinai on the 6th of Sivan when G-d gave His Torah to every Jewish man, woman and child. I would like to focus, howMature, responsible, nonsmoking, loving ever, on another momentous event that took place a few short days earlier, on the first day of Sivan. woman to babysit an infant on a steady, When speaking of the Jewish people, the Torah but not daily, basis. usually uses the plural form. . .e.g. "they jourMust furnish personal references and neyed. . ." When describing the arrival of the Jews transportation. at Mt. Sinai, on the first day of Sivan, the Torah Call Tracy Schrier at departs from this rule and talks of the Jews in the singular form. Our Sages explain this anomaly by 445-8151 the fact that on that day at Sinai, the Jews became so united to the point that they were "as one person with one heart," hence the Torah's use of the singular form.

Certainly there were differences of opinion and Alan H. Friedman outlook amongst the Jews, yet they were able to President transcend those differences and recognize their Graduate Gemologist inherent unity with each other as part of one nation. Their differences did not miraculously dis9107 Wilshire Boulevard. Suite 320 appear, instead they took a back seat, for the Sinai Beverly Hills, California 90210 experience would reach into the core of their being 888»489»4545 • Fax 310'278«5449 and at that level, there is no division between one Member of West Coust Diamond Club Jew and another.

Estate Jewelers Association of America American Gem Trade Association We can reach true unity only when we look deeper than the surface and discover the soul. If we see differences between Jews, we must realize that they are only superficial compared to what really iSchollman's matters—the soul. And at the level of the soul, all Beautiful Decorative Jews are the same-all children of one G-d. When Cabinet, Door & G-d gave us the Torah, He gave us the means with Bath Hardware which to discover not only our own soul, but also Supply the soul of creation—the Creator.' browse our showrooms till 8p.m. every Thursday Unity of the people was a prerequisite to receiviSchoIlman's your personal hardware consultant ing the Torah at Sinai; and 3309 years later, it still is. Unity does not require that we al abdicate our 593-9210 8425 "F" St. (across from Acura) external differences. Unity requires the recognition re-established, 1908 that what binds us together is infinitely deeper and stronger than those external differences. Jews can differ on a wide range of subjects, but always CLIP & SAVE as brothers and sisters. "We are one!"... is not just ,1 CALENDAR OF EVENTS C a catchy slogan, rather it reflects an inherent truth about us. Disagreements cannot be used as wedges U FRIDAY, MAY 22 L between Jews in the same way that the left hand I ' Russian Club, 10 a.m.

P cannot "fight" the right one. This Shavuot, let us redouble our efforts to make our unity a conscious SATURDAY, MAY 23 palpable realty, for this is how Shavuot is meant to Beth El USY Rush #2, 8 p.m., at Beth El be.

S The Midrash relates that prior to giving the A TUESDAY, MAY 26 Torah, G-d demanded that the Jews provide guarV ^ ACT Prep Course, 7 p.m.

E antors for the Torah. The only guarantors acceptFederation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. able to G-d were the Jewish children. With such a central role in the events of Shavuot, it is fitting WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 that all children, even tiny infants, be present in Beth Israel Annual Meeting & Elections, synagogue when the Ten Commandments are read 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel from the Torah on the morning of the first day of Shavuot (Sunday May-31). After all, they are the THURSDAY, MAY 28 next link in the unbroken golden chain of tradition.

Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m.

May we all merit to see much Nachas from all of Temple Israel Sisterhood Adult Education, them!

9:30 a.m., at Temple Israel Beth El USY Final Banquet/Installations/ Rush, 3 p.m., at Beth El Adults become B'nai Mitzvah L.O.V.E. Auxiliary Board Meeting, 7 p.m., at Temple Israel tonight at RBJH Conference Room =LCCI(3MIT:IS:

UJHNTED

Alan Friedman Company

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* SUNDAY,MAY31 S BESTT 8-12 Graduation Ceremony, A 9:30 a.m., at Beth El -

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All events held al the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. The Jewish Press Is not responsible tor the accuracy at the above events. To keep calendar accurate or lor questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437.

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CITY .71 .COMPANY

COMMERCIAL and

RESIDENTIAL 8037 H Street Omaha, NE 68127 (402) 593-1242

CUP & SAVE

CONNIE L. ADLER Services for Connie L. Adler were held May 15 at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. She was 89.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hymie.

Survivors include her sister, Betty Weissman; and brothers-in-law, Jake Adler and Morrie Adler.

Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

SAMUELKAPLAN Services for Samuel Kaplan were held May 17 at Beth Shalom Cemetery. He died at the age of 82.

Survivors include his wife, Charlotte; son and daughter-in-law, Col. Marshall and Annette Kaplan; daughters and sons-in-law, Marilyn and Edward Treller and Andrea and Scott Dull; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

BETH FEME KAPLAN Beth Fine Kaplan died May 12 in Chicago at the age of 41.

Mrs. Kaplan, formerly of Omaha, was an assistant professor of obstretrics and gynecology at the Northwestern Medical School and a past president of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. She helped develop the graduate program in genetic counseling at Northwestern University.

Survivors include her husband, Daniel; two sons, Joshua, 11, and Aaron, 8; father, Charles Fine; two sisters, Janet and Diane Fine; and mpther-and father-in-law, Jeri and Mickey Kaplan of Coronado, CA, formerly of Omaha.

Memorials to Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University Medical School, Olson Pavilion, 303 E. Chicago, IL 60611-3008.

ESTHER COLNIC Services for Esther Colnic were held May 7 at Golden Hill Cemetery. A resident of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, she died at the age of 97.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Meyer.

Survivors include a daughter, Shirley Bugenstein of Lima, OH; a son, Jerry Colnic of Downey, CA; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Memorials to Beth Israel Synagogue.

CDC at heart of JCC rejuvenation (Continued from Page 1) and toddlers, and older children will have what's known as a "great room."

The expansion from 10,500 square feet to 16,000 sq. ft. will allow for the classrooms to double, from five to ten. Two additional administrative assistants will be available during the CDC hours. A kitchen and laundry staff person will be added.

A stage and theater will be built off the commons area, allowing for the development of a dramatic arts program. This area will also include a staff resource center and media center with computers available to children as young as two years old.

Three playground areas will replace one, with one being under a covered canopy. The CDC will be secured both inside and out. A glassed-in covered walkway will link the CDC to the JCC. Plans are still under construction, but the attemptto"build a Jewish neighborhood for the 21st century" is on its way.

Steve and Patty Nogg and Marcia and Steve Pitlor are leading the fund raising effort for the rejuvanation of the JCC. Contributions of any size can be made to the project by calling the Noggs at 493-3479, or the Pitlors at 496-4632, Tom Fellman or Howard Kooper at 392-1800, or the Federation offices at 334-8200.

Beth El sponsors Shavuot program

SATURDAY, MAY 30 Temple Israel Confirmation & Erev Shavout, 7:30 p.m., at Temple Israel Erev Shavuot-Tikun Leil Shavuot, midnight, at Beth Israel

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Deaths

Teachers and students of the B'nai Mitzvah class at Temple Israel prepare for the service, tonight at 7:30 p.m. First row, from left'. Mimi Rogers, Rosahna Aronson, Stephanie Grossman, Angie Krieger, Sandy Passer, Nancy Wolf, Joan Marcus; second row. Elyce Azriel, Lee N e e d e l m a n , Sally Kaplan, Mardee Brechwold, Doris Alloy, Debbie Brookstein, Rabbi Debbie Stiel; third row: Jane Rips, John Dacey, Robin Dwinell, Beth Walts.

by Cheryl Lerner Beth El Synagogue Adult Education Committee will sponsor a luncheon and discussion following Shavuot morning services on Sunday, May 31, entitled ". . .And These Words Which I Command Thee-What Does It Mean To Be Commanded?"

The discussion will examine the issues of commandment and obligation and will include theologians, parents and students. The program coin' cides with BESTT (Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah) graduation for 8th and 12th graders.

Graduation ceremonies will take place during the service, preceding the lunch and program.

"A discussion of this sort is especially pertinent in the context of religious school graduation," said co-chairman Eadie Tsabari; "We received the Torah on Shavuot. What does being commanded mean to us now, and how does our interpretation change as we change?"

For more information, call 492-8550.

May 22,1998

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Jewi

CANDLELIGHTING: 8:24 p.m.

TEMPLE ISRAEL

Member of the Union, of American Hebrew Congregations * 7023 Cass Street, Omaha, N15 68132 S56-653G, FRIDAY: Shabbat evening service, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Azriel, Rabbi Stiel and Hazzan Contzius will officiate, along with Adult B'nai Mitzvah: Rosana Aronson, Doris Alloy, Mardee Brechwald, Deborah Brookstein, John Dacey, Robin Dwinell, Stephanie Grossman, Sally Kaplan, Angela Krieger, Joan Marcus, Lee Needelman, Sandra Passer, Jane Rips, Mimi Rogers, Beth Walts and Nancy Wolf.

The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by the Adult B'nai Mitzvah.

SITTER SERVICE Sitter service is available each Friday evening, Saturday mornings when there is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, and Sunday mornings during Religious School. Please make a reservation. Cost is $2 per family if reservations are made with the Temple office prior to Friday or $3 for drop-ins. There are no facilities for infants.

SATURDAY: Shabbat morning service, 10.30 a m .

Sinicha B'Shabbat—An informal Shabbat service and discussion of a variety of Jewish texts.

ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAY, M a y 28: S i s t e r h o o d A d u l t E d u c a t i o n , Rabbi Azriel will teach "Israel at Fifty-Midlife Crisis," from 9:30-11 a.m. "Beyond Midrash," led by Don Schwartz, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

SERVICE OP CONFIRMATION Saturday, May 30, 7:30 p.m. Confirmands are: Benjamin Bleicher, Lauren Brown, Jeremy Cbasen, Matthew Chasen, Julie Coren, Allison Fine, Jay Kulakofsky, Joshua Needelman, Tara Renstrom, Whitney Taxman and Michelle Taylon.

Following the service, the confirmands' parents invite everyone to a special Oneg Shabbat, followed

by Tikkun Leil Shavuot with Rabbi Josh Zweiback, Jacqueline Hantgan, Rabbi Dennis Eisner and Tamara Lustgarten Cooper*.

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America 1502 No. 52nd St., Omaha, ME 68104 ; 556*028$ Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner.

Office h6ijirs:-Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. . FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat service, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY: Morning services, 8:45 a.m.; Little People service, 10:15 ajn.; Jr. Congregation, Mfc30 a.m. Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood.

Pirkei Avos class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:50 p.m.; Mincha, 8:20 p.m., followed by Shalosh Seudot, Ma'ariv and Havdalah.

SUNDAY: Services at 9 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.

MONDAY (Memorial Day): Services at 9 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Adult Education with Rabbi Kutner, 7:30 p.m., Talmud class using Tractate Brachos as its text.

WEDNESDAY: Annual meeting and elections, 7 pan.

WEEKDAYS: Services at 7 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.

CHABAD HOUSE Chabad-JLubaviteb. Movement 1800 So. 120th S t , Omaha, NE 08144 , , o E-BIAIli~ciiabad@a6l.coni SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. Kiddush following services.

SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.; WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m.

WEDNESDAY: Mitzvah Munchkins class, 10 a.m.-noon THURSDAY: Talmud Class, noon.

ROSE BLUMKtN JEWISH HOME

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SATURDAY: Shabbat services, led by Harold Gottlieb, 9 a.m. Kiddush following services.

TIFERETH ISRAEL

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BEYT SHALOM

'";,-"-' - \ - ' An&fiEHiate of the ' Jewish Reconstructions! Federation . P,O, Box 241130, Owtahu, NE 68124-5130 /; ;; , ; > 7589235, •'••• V -. httpy/p\vl.tietcom,eom/~salmim

FRIDAY: No services due to Memorial Weekend.

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(Il8 Mynstcr St., Council Bluffs, Iowa 31503 •

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FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m., followed by an Oneg Shabbat.

Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser.

TUESDAY: Adult Education, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 p.m., and Bat Mitzvah of Tracy Rosenbatun, daughter of Teri Perkins and Dave Rosenbloom.

SATURDAY: Torah study, 10 a.m., and Bat Mitzvah of Tracy Rosenbaum.

Services conducted by Rabbi Ira Flax.

Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Member Of the United Synagogue, • , of Conservative Judaism' 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE €8502 423-8569 Services are conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum.

Minyan on Monday and Thursday at 7:15 a.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.; Jr. Congregation, 10:15 a.m. Oneg Shabbat and kiddish luncheon honoring Bernie and Jack Mosow's 50th anniversary.

SHAVUOT CELEBRATION Saturday, May 30 8 p.m.-Seminar #1 with Dr. Sanford Kaplan 9 p.m.-Shavuot services and refreshment break 9:45 p.m.--Seminar #2 with Rabbi Stanley Rosenbaum.

Sunday, May 31 9:30 a.m.--Services and Confirmation 8 p.m.--Services.

Hebrew High School Confirmation will occur during regular Shavuot Services, followed by a dessert reception. ' Monday, June 1 9:30 a;m.~Services, including Yizkor.

Torah reading and luncheon to be held at Chabad House Shani Katzman of Chabad House has announced the annual dairy luncheon in honor of Shavuot will be held at Chabad House Sunday, May 31, at noon. The luncheon will follow a unique Torah reading (11 am.) with the participation of young children. Both are open to the entire community, i "It is crucial that all Jews attend a service on Shavuot. Specifically the young should be present for the reading of the Ten Commandments," said Mrs. Katzman. "They were guarantors to G-d that the Torah would be guarded by our people," she added.

For more information, call 330-1800. .

Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California, Omaha, NE 68154 492-8550 WEB-http://omahafreenet.org/bethel Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazeri and Cantor Emil Berkovits. ; FREDAY: Services, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. A l a n Friedman, son of Morris and Beth Friedman, will become a Bar Mitzvah; Kiddush following services; Sitter service, 10 a.m.; TSS (Torah Siddur Skills), 10 ajn^ Shabbat Story Time, first and third Saturday, 11 aan; K'tantan, second and fourth Saturday, 11 ajn.; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah, 8:35 p.m.

SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 turn, and 5:30 p.m.

ARTISTS SHOW: Members' artistic talents will be on display in the Social Hall during regular hours Saturday, May 30, through Sunday, June 7: USY FINAL BANQUET: Installation of officers will be held at the banquet on Thursday, May 28.

Benjamin Harris Taxman, son of Jeffrey and Sherry Taxman, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah at the Shabbat morning service at Temple Israel on Saturday, May 30. r A seventh-grade honor roll student at Westside Middle School, he earned state recognition for the Talent Identification I Program and was on the I Odyssey of the Mind I Team which won first place. He enjoys swimming, art. Jazz Band, entertaining at the Blumkin Home and volunteering for the Jr. Friends Program at Swanson Library. :.

For his mitzvah project he collected art supplies for the new South Omaha facility of Child Saving Institute and the Francis Sienna House.

Benjamin has three sisters, Lindsey, 22, Whitney, 16, and Chelsea, 10.

Grandparents are Barbara' and Marvin Taxman and the late Harry and Lydia Foster.

MEMORIAL SERVICE The annual Veteran's Memorial Service will be held at the Bichor Cholem Cemetary in Council Bluffs on Sunday at 11 a.m. The event is sponsored by Council Bluffs Irving Cohen Lodge B'nai B'rith and B'nai Israel Synagogue.

Lloyd Krasne is in charge of the program; Howard Silber will give the address.

The family of Eddie Belgrade thanks the community for its overwhelming love and support; Your kind words and gestures have helped to ease our sorrow.

We are extremely touched and grateful.v Sandra, Bob, Bruce, JimandRobyn

Page4

Editorial

,Ort!aba,;NE

May 32; 1988

Remembering the fallen

What does success of 'Seinfeld' say about the Jews?

by Rebecca Segall and Peter Ephross

Monday is Memorial Day, the first 'official day of summer' when the pools open and families picnic NEW YORK (JTA) - "Too Jewish" was the Way a together. Or is it? top Jewish television executive dismissed the origiIt's supposed to be a day when Americans remem- nal pilot for Seinfeld. ber the soldiers who died for this country, fighting in So it is not surprising that when the TV show wars far away from home and loved ones. was given a second chance by NBC a year later in In Israel, this day is called Yom HaZikaron and it 1990, co-creator Jerry Seinfeld was uncomfortable falls the day before Yom Ha'Atzmaut, producing specifically Jewish plots.

Independence Day. Israelis remember their fallen "He tried to avoid it from the beginning," says a with a minute of wailing sirens while even drivers Jewish co-producer and Seinfeld'scriptwriter, stop their cars and stand respectfully in silence.

Gregg Kavet. But with a significant number of What do we do for the Jewish men and women Jewish writers on the show - most recently, says who died in the two Worlds Wars, in Korea and Kavet, there were "six and a hair out of 10 -- perVietnam? The Jewish War Veterans do hold memo- haps Seinfeld was bound to deal with Floridian rials services and some families visit the gravesites parents, kosher girlfriends, Jewish singles events of their loved ones, but as a community, we barely and even the'Soup Nazi.' give this day a thought.

What better way for a Jewish comedian to make Two men died last week who were veterans: the world a completely funny place than to find Eddie Belgrade and Sam Kaplan. They fought in humor in the most terrifying event that has afflictdifferent wars and moved in different social circles, ed Jews? but they were two of the nicest, sweetest guys in In any event, NBC was wrong - not that there's town. They were also veterans and though neither anything wrong with that. died during wartime (thank God), their lives were As Jerry and his sidekicks — Elaine, George and inexorably shaped by the events that made them Kramer — closed their nine-year run atop the volunteer for their country.

Nielsen charts, and as millions of devoted fans Will we remember them next Memorial Day? around the globe watched the show's final episode last week, it is obvious that the quirky witticisms What's so funny and neurotic, oddball idiosyncrasies of its four sinin Israel? gles living on Manhattan's Upper West Side were not too Jewish for America.

by Ronnie Caplane So what does its success say about Jewishness in A bus blows up in Jerusalem. The next day, America? And in what way was Seinfeld — the word is out on the streets. Buy a bus pass, get a show and its characters — Jewish anyway?

In a recent article in The Washington Post, televibonus. A free ticket to heaven. sion critic Tom Shales declared that the problem Shocking? Iconoclastic? Insensitive? with Seinfeld is not that it was too Jewish, but "too That's Israeli humor.

"Israeli humor is very strong black humor that is self-hatingly Jewish." And there's no doubt that very political in nature," says Moshe Waldoks, Shales' argument appears to have some merit. rabbi of Temple Beth Zion in Brookline, Think of some of the episodes that dealt specifically Massachusetts and author of three anthologies of with Judaism: * After Elaine - who plays a non-Jewish woman American and Jewish humor. "Diaspora Jews would find [Israeli humor] problematic and offen- in the show — seeks counseling from a rabbi, the rabbi divulges one of her secrets on a national telesive." , Berkeley author Donna Rosenthal agrees. After vision talk show, * An exacting chef/proprietor of a neighborhood living in Israel for several years she became accustomed to Israeli humor but at times she didn't soup stand is called a 'Soup Nazi.' * The mokel that Elaine finds for a friend's child's know whether to laugh or get angry.

"A lot of Israeli humor is taking something total- bris is so high-strung that he mistakenly cuts godly depressing or tragic and making it funny," says father Jerry's finger instead. * Jerry and his girlfriend-bf-the-week are caught Rosenthal recalling making a date to meet an by Jerry's archenemy, Newman, making out during Israeli friend for coffee the day after the bombing Schindler's List. of the Cafe Apropos in Tel Aviv. * In an episode titled 'Shiksappeal,' Elaine discov"Let's pick a cafe that won't explode," the friend ers that Jewish men like her because she is not said. They ended up going to another Cafe Jewish.

• Apropos on the theory it would be the safest place.

Rabbi Jonathan and Judith Pearl, co-directors of Israeli-born therapist Rachel Biele sees Israeli humor as a reflection of the realities of daily life the Jewish Televimages Resource Center, a project that traces the way Jews are depicted on television, and essential nature of Israelis. agree with Shales.

"The people Jive in dire situations where they feel "Seinfeld became unfunny" whenever it "dealt there's a threat to their safety," said Biele who now lives in Berkeley and is a therapist at the Jewish with Jewish issues," says Jonathan Pearl, a media Family and Children's Services of the East Bay. scholar and Reconstructionist rabbi living in "One coping mechanism is humor. Israeli style in Queens, N.Y. "I think when someone pokes fun out general is to confront things head on. Black humor of love and affection, it comes through no matter is more in line with that than escapism. Awful how stereotypical or offensive \t might seem."

But Abraham Foxman, national director of the incidents become the subject of humor."

As with any society, Israeli humor has evolved Anti-Defamation League and a huge Seinfeld fan, and changes to reflect the times. During the 1940s believes that Pearl may be missing the point.

"Getting more positive messages out about there was a brand of humor called chizbach, which Judaism is not what Seinfeld is about," he says. means liea* in Arabic.

Following victory in the '67 War, Waldoks said a "It's comedy.

"The Jewishness of the Seinfeld characters were lot of jokes emerged that were racist and anti-Arab worn comfortably and naturally on their sleeve, he while glorifying the Israelis. Today there is "falafel humor" which pokes fun at the immigrant experi- added. "There were no bizarre or eccentric Jews," ence. The subject of the jokes change with the which is a development for Jews in America.

"Seinfeld is human, universal." nationality of the current waive of immigration.

Defenders of Seinfeld point out that the Jewish (Continued on page 5) characters are no more blatantly stereotyped than

Focus' on Issues

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are other minorities. The show pulls no punches when it comes to using midgets, homosexuals or hard-of-hearing characters for a laugh. Of course, the show just as often uses episodes involving these players to attack the main characters' stereotypes about them.

But Jews — of all generations — are among the show's biggest fans. And judging from numerous discussions in Jewish chat rooms on the Internet, the vast majority of Jews are not irked by the questionable depictions of Jews.

have California M&bbi Earol4 BehulweU of Congregation Valley Beth : Slmtom, in the senne th&i '• they are seen m representing ' average Americam* "We no \ longer are mking>(Wha,t will the anti'Semitee my?'"

But the flip side, he says, is that the show also reflects how Jews have lost their uniqueness.

"Seinfeld accurately reflects a lack of purpose and spirituality in the life of most American Jews today."

Moshe Waldoks, the co-editor of a book titled, The Big Book of Jewish Humor, places the issue in a historical perspective.

Waldoks says there are two types of Jewish humor in Seinfeld: "Jewish humor" and "Jewishstyle humor."

What he calls Jewish humor emerged from the cultural uneasiness that emerged after the birth of the haskalah, the Jewish Enlightenment, in the early and mid-19th century. This humor resulted from the more modern, European-oriented Jews making fun of their "country bumpkin" cousins, the Jews of the shtetl, and their Hasidic rabbis, who were often depicted as charlatans. When Seinfeld ridicules rabbis or mohels, it is taking part in this tradition, according to Waldoks..

Jewish-style humor, Waldoks says, resulted from the tension between Jewish comedy and American culture that began earlier in the 20th century. The balancing act of children of immigrants caught between the Old World and the New helped to mold this style* which is full of cynicism and verbal word play. The comedians, afraid of negative reactions, often de-Judaized their subjects.

But if Seinfeld can be seen as part of both of these long-standing traditions, the show has also perhaps as a reflection of contemporary America's ethnic pride — altered t h a t tradition: J e r r y Seinfeld, unlike George Burns or Woody Allen, never changed his name •'" ' Seinfeld's own real-life childhood is one that many American Jews would recognize.Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and raised in Massapequa, Long Island, Seinfeld graduated with honors from Queens College with a degree in communications. ' The show's other real-life Jewish actor - Jason Alexander - has an intentionally unrecognizable Jewish name, but a stronger Jewish affiliation.

Alexander;-- Seinfeld's high-strung, bald, chunky sidekick, George Coatanza — was born Jay Greenspan, and is how an occasional spokesman for the ADL. "Alexander went on an ADL trip to Israel," Foxman recalls, and "came back and said he wanted to do something."

Indeed, Alexander has done some public speaking for the group and has narrated and starred in an ADLfilm.

JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Muyri I l o i l s l e i n , Vice C h a i r m a n ; Fred T i c h n u e r , Trcnsuror; Jonnic Jncobson, Secretary; Elyce Azriel; Jill Dolimml.; Hob Birl; Stnvn Dnncin; llnb Rimmberg; l.iniln Lncliin; Slwryl koo; lleorga iSc/i/ijiirw; llowartl Silitnr.

Kdiloriala express the view of the writer and are not necessarily rppriiRRiilnlivo of the vlewB of the J e w i s h Press Committee, the Jewish I'ec/eralion nfOmaha or the Ontnh^ Jmvish Community as a whole. The J e w i s h Pross reserves the ri|*ht to edit lellpiH and articles for space and content.

Tim J e w i s h Pross in not responsible for the Knshruth of any product or establishment.

May 22; 1998

Behind the Headlines

Rabbis seek new dialogue at time of tension

••••

-.-.•

- - . . . - , -

(Continued from page 4) Waldoks remembers a joke that was floating around several years ago before Rabin was assassisince they are there as individual rabbis, rather nated, before ATMs were commonplace and when than delegates from their movements, Rabbi banking meant hours in line. "/ can't take this anymore," says a man, storming Henry Michaelman of New York, the longtime director of the Synagogue Council, said in an inter- out of. the bank.

"Where are you going," someone asks. view as the new group got under way this week.

"To assassinate the Prime Minister." . . , "We could serve as a paradigm of rabbinic unity A little while later the man returns. at a time when people are looking for this," said "What happened?" someone asks. . ' '!

Schneir.

"The line was longer over there." ' The kickoff dinner, held at the Museum of Jewish And, with Isra'elis being news junkies, it's follows Heritage; A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, '-if' included, as guests, Martin Kraar, executive vice that a lot of their humor is political.

The United States has, B~ill Clinton,' Srevie president of the Council of Jewish Federations, and Elan Steinberg, executive director of the.World Wonder, Bob Hope and Johnny Cash. ln\Jsrael'uie Jewish Congress, which were- the conference's co- have Bibi Netanyahu.

No Wonder. No Hope. No Cash. .' "•' sponsoring organizations.

One of the most popular Israeli television shows The conference was funded by philanthropists Charles Bronfman, Michael Jesselson and Michael is Chartzupim, a satirical puppet show which '.,-., Steinhardt, who each contributed over $16,000 to reviews the events of the preceding week.

These days Bibi Netanyahu is the brunt of many fly in rabbis from communities large and small and jokes. According to Waldoks, on at least one occasion, from each of the major Jewish denominations.

They came from Omaha (represented by Rabbi Chartzupim was so biting and so anti-Netanyahu, Paul Drazen) and Kansas City, St. Louis and that the Prime Minister had the show canceled.

A life guard orders Bibi Netanyahu to get out of the Portland, Maine. They came out of curiosity — and pool. . ,' hope, said those interviewed.

"Whyareypu ordering me to get out?" Netanyahu asks.

For Reform Rabbi-Paul Cohen, head of the Maine "Because you're peeing in the pool," says the life rabbinic organization, which is based in Portland and is in its first year of operation, "What's intrigu- guard. ing is choosing to focus on ways that we can be "Why pick on me? Everyone's peeing in the pool," ; together in community, rather than following the says Netanyahu.

"Yes," says the life guard.- "Bui not from the divtrend of looking at who's not there." . _.; "Anything fostering cooperation is good," said ing board."

In Israel there are no sacred cows and political Conservative Rabbi Neil Sandier, one of three rabbis correctness is not a consideration. . . . . . in Des Moines, a community of about 3,000 Jews.

"One of the hallmarks that makes Israeli humor The reality in many communities is that rabbis of all denominations work closely together - most different from diaspora humor as that they don't often to organize community-wide celebrations for have to worry about how it's understood by .the Holocaust Memorial Day and Israeli independence majority culture around it," says Waldoks. "[Jokes] Day, but also on other matters of local interest. And won't be misconstrued against the Jews. In Israel ..| interdenominational tensions come up all the time. being a majority can be very sharp."

So what's hot in Israel today? ,ij\ Exactly what's next for the new NABOR is not Seinfeld, what else?

•-,'..yet clear, nor is the funding. Said Schneier. "I believe there are enough people in the Jewish m ^ m m ^ B _ _ _ community who will What Michelangelo Take embrace this organization and be supportive." would have a little

by Debra Nussbaum Cohen

NEW YORK (JTA) - The creation of a national organization whose mission is if) bring together rabbis of every denomination for dialogue is being met with a degree of skepticism - and a lot of hope.

The new group --named the North American Board of Rabbis ~ is the idea of modern Orthodox Rabbi Marc Schneier, president of the New York Board of Rabbis and spiritual leader of a 1,000member synagogue in Westhampton Beach, N.Y. Schneier raised $50,000 from three heavyweight philanthropists to bring some 30 rabbis from across the country together this week for a daylong inaugural meeting in New York. The gathering took place against an ongoing backdrop of severe Jewish in-fighting, spurred recently by the push for- religious pluralism in Israel by the non-Orthodox movements and by an increasing insistence on religious hegemony on the part of the Orthodox.

The current disagreement over the Jewish character of Israel has exacerbated long-developing tensions between Orthodox and liberal Jews in the United States.

"The American Jewish community is crying out for a voice of rabbinic cooperation, not conflict; one of devotedness, not divisiveness," Schneier said in an interview.

While Jewish unity is a mom-and-apple-pie issue for leaders of the Jewish community, the idea has proven much easier to endorse than to accomplish.

The Synagogue Council of America was a venerable, 70-year-old umbrella group of Orthodox, Conservative and Reform rabbis and laity that died in 1995. That group, with a similar mission to this new one, collapsed in part for financial reasons after some Orthodox participants decided they were no longer interested in this form of interdenominational dialogue.

Is it possible that NABOR, which also hopes to be involved in national interfaith efforts, will succeed where the Synagogue Council failed?

Noting that rabbis already work together on the local level, he said, "We already have the microcosms throughout the country. We're looking for a m a c r o c o s m ! " •:»••»-.

Jewish Brtss,;©niaha,NE Page 5 What's so funny in Israel?

:

: < H

. <• - . : . • ( • > , . : , , •

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 22,1998

ih.il,

I!" :•..•!

Yampolsky closes symphony season ingsJ It includes a new concert hall, similar to the symphony hall in the Ending the 1997-98 season of the Omaha Kennedy Center in Symphony with Beethoven's Ninth last weekend to Washington, D.C., joined a standing-ovation is typical of the relationship to the current Orpheum conductor Victor Yampolsky has developed with space with a new larger music-lovers in Omaha. lobby and entrance.

His contract has been renewed; there's been a Updated dressing rooms, committee formed to study the possibility of handicapped accessibility, expanding space for rehearsals and concerts in the food service space and downtown area, and much of the Omaha offices are all part of the Symphony's success seems due to the personality dream. and perseverence of this one man.

According to Slosburg, In a recent interview, Yampolsky talked about "Victor is an exceptional his early musical training, his musical idols, and individual - charismatic, his hopes for the future. committed and passionate Yampolsky, whose parents were both concert about music. He has pianists in Russia, started our conversation by clarraised the level of play ifying the role of the conductor. and expectations for the "Conducting is not separate from the perforsymphony, now a firstmance,"^ noted. "I'm not using a violin or a horn, rate group.

• instead, the whole orchestra becomes my instru"The Omaha Center for ment. It's the same preparation for the vocalist or Performing Arts will be a the violinist as it is for the conductor...if you think major venue," he added.

Omaha Symphony conductor of the symphony as a living instrument."

"It will feature a renovat-' Victor Yampolsky Playing violin in the Moscow Philharmonic ed and restored Orpheum Orchestra led him back to school to learn conductcapable of seating 2300, plus a world class concert ing, where he discovered he had his "own way of hall seating 1800." interpreting and hearing the way the music should Part of Yampolsky's dream is a Children's Music **/ don't even feel like ifs sound."

Center that would be housed in the topfloorsabove Through the efforts of Leonard Bernstein, among commuting,anymore!" a proposed parking lot in the expansion. It's an others, Yampolosky arrived in the United States in Yampolsky joked* "Omaha idea that sprang from the creation of the Omaha 1973 and after a stint with the Tanglewood Music Children's Music Fund, co-created with Festival, went from the position of Assistant has an extremely polished Symphony Cox Communications, and kicked-off with an initial Conductor of the Moscow Philharmonic to conductgroup of professionals, so gift of $10,000 from Jewish community philaning a small community orchestra in Plymouth, Edith Noddle.

Massachusetts. when I fly in, it only takes thropist "No child should ever be deprived of the opportu"I was fired after two years," he said smiling. "I've a few readings before we're nity to experience music," she said when she made been fired several times!" the gift last month, "Music changes, lives."

He went to Boston University to conduct the ready to perform publicly.

The goal of the fund is to promote music awareorchestra within its school of music and by 1984 he ness and develop music curriculum within the pubwas teaching and conducting at Northwestern "The Northwestern lic schools. More than 7600 children heard the Symphony, on the other Omaha Symphony performance of Peter and the hand, is composed of stu- Wolf in schools in Nebraska and Iowa during the ' " dents in the music school 1997-98 season.

So what's in the future for Maestro Yampolsky of varying degrees of experience," he contin- and his team of accomplished musicians?

The conductor has a long list of musical idols, ued, "and there, it takes a minimum of four weeks some of whom he would like to bring to Omaha, such as Yo Yo Ma, Emmanuel Ax, Garrick Olsen, to prepare for a concert.

Readers might assume Midori, and opera great Marilyn Home who will that the faster pace of star, in the 1998-99 season opener on September 12.

He also recalls with fondness, those musicians Yampolsky's life occurs in suburban Chicago, but who have influenced his life, besides Leonard he described the oppo- Bernstein who helped him immigrate: his violin teacher the late David Oistrakh, Wilhelm site.

"In Omaha, I feel like Furtwengler (the conductor of the Berlin I'm manipulating giant Philharmonic), and musical giants Arturo cranes and bridges to Toscanini, Fritz Reiner, and Georg Szell.

Today, Yampolsky has Chicago Symphony concreate a huge sound," he noted, "while in Evan- ductor Daniel Barenboim on his list of those he BILU ston the pace crawls to most admires, along with Pierre Boulez and Dutch the speed of a horse and conductor Bernard Haitink. carriage. Yet, it's exhilaLongtime flutist in the Omaha Symphony, Willis rating there, too, because Ann Ross, has described the musicians' relationmy students have to gain ship with their conductor like this: "Maestro this kind of experience in Yampolsky is a delight to work with; his rich backBus leaves Beth El at 6:00 a.m. order to reach the profes- ground, knowledge and practical skills inspire us to Return by 9:30 p.m. sionalism of the Omaha play at the very best of our abilities.

Symphony."

"He demands and expects preparation and playIt's that professionaling at the highest level," Ross added, "always with FREE for all 8th graders and high schoolers not currently ism that concerns Yam- respect, graciousness and good humor." in USY! We'll even feed you dinner! All you need to bring polsky and turns his Yampolsky has closed out yet another successful thoughts toward the season and looks forward to the 1998-99 season is RUAGH and some $ for lunch. USYers pay just $20! future of the symphony with that same good humor and graciousness and its home. described by his second flutist.

Recently, a group It's a season filled with well-known artists such f© under the direction of as cellist Lynn Harrell and pianist Lilya Zilberstein board member David (playing the Rachmaninoff Concerto No. 3 heard in Slosburg, began investi- the movie Shine), among others. (By the way, the gating the possibility of deadline for season subscriptions is only a week Don't ississ out on the best youth group in town! expanding the rehearsal away on May 30; call 342-3560 for information.) and performance space And it's a future that may well bring new facilifor the symphony mem- ties for the Omaha Symphony while bridging the bers. A proposed plan for community's pride to its traditional use of the the Omaha Center for Orpheum. As Yampolsky stated so passionately, the Performing Arts has "Omaha has some real possibilities in its been discussed by the future...for better presentation, a longer, more varBeth El Synagogue"-14506 California St..

Board of Directors as ied symphony season...a venue for the creation of a well as in public hear- community music school."

by Carol Katzman

University. For the last three years, Yampolsky has divided his time between Evanston, IL, (where he lives with his wife, Carol, and their two children) and Omaha-and between a student symphony and one composed of professionals.

He also visits his mother in Jerusalem frequently and will return there in August. The last time he was there he traveled to Haifa as a guest conductor, playing one program six times to full houses: four in Haifa, another to 600 people in Kiryat Shimona and yet another concert at a nearby kibbutz to another 900 in attendance. The normal schedule for a guest conductor is only four performances, but the exhausting schedule seems normal for Yampolsky.

It's Time For

The HUSH you've been waiting for.

Sunday, June 7

June %

'•

IV -It I"

Merrill Elizabeth Abrams, daughter of former Omahan James Abrams and Laura Reilly, was recently named a Texaco Merit Scholar. Ms. Abrams is a 1998 graduate of George Washington High School's International Baccalaureate Program and will enter the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business and College of Engineering's Management & Technolo • gy Program this fall.

Ronee Epstein Krashes of Natick, MA, has been named the outstanding chemistry teacher of the Northeastern States and has been awarded the Theodore Williams Richards award. A graduate of Omaha Central High and Purdue University, she has been teaching AP. Chemistry at Framingham High for 25 years.

She is the daughter of Jack and Lucille Epstein of Omaha.

Among those named to the 1998 Board of Directors of Planned Parenthood of Omaha-Council Bluffs are: Susan Rothholz, Treasurer; Gary Goldstein, Lisa Lewis and Natha Waldbaum.

Pacesetter Corporation has presented Grand Rapids Vice-president/General Manager Bill Goldman its most prestigious honor—the Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Award. The award was presented by Phillip G. Schrager, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pacesetter Corp., and Pacesetter President Harley D. Schrager.

Jack and Judy Baker have volunteered to serve as the general campaign chairs for the 1998 United Way/CHAD Campaign. Jack is chairman and CEO of Baker's Supermarkets; Judy is creative director of special events, Baker's Supermarkets.

The YWCA'Women Against Violence program is Reeking both men and women to serve as volunteers to staff the 24-hour hotline. Training classes are held weekday evenings and Saturday mornings and are scheduled to begin May 30. For more information, call the Volunteer Coordinator at the YWCA, 345-6555.

Daniel Colcher, a senior at Westside High School, was recently presented with . the Outstanding Vocal Music Student Award. He has been in charge of the light and sound systems for fhe high school Amazing Technicolor Show Choir, of which he has been a member for the past two years, and other Westside events.

Daniel is the son of Bonnie and David Colcher.

He will attend the University of Miami.

Msiy

May 22,1998

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

JCC Gallery to exhibit sculpture by Annette Fettman

by Gloriann Levy

Annette Fettman will be the featured artist in the JCC Gallery starting May 14. Her sculptures are primarily in clay and bronze and are cast at Bellevue University under the direction of Mr. Leslie Bruning.

Mrs. Fettman studied art at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, UCLA, Creighton and Bellevue University.

Her work is strongly influenced by her life as an observant Jew. Growing up as an American teenager during the Holocaust in Europe, she felt that she^was; shielded from the great catastrophe that decimated our people. Her work is a tribute to their memories.

Her sculpture entitled "Zachor" is on display in the JCC and is used every year at the Omaha Jewish community-wide Yom HaShoah commemoration. A second Holocaust memorial sculpture is located in the foyer of Beth Israel Synagogue and is dedicated to the memory of her husband's parents who perished in the Holocaust in 1944.

In addition, Mrs. Fettman's mezuzah in memory of Miriam and Sam Nemeroff was commissioned by the Jewish Cultural Arts Council and hangs in the JCC Theatre hallway.

Her husband, Cantor Leo Fettman, has recently Gallery hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.- 10 completed the manuscript of his memoirs. She is p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 1-7 p.m.; and illustrating the book. They reside in Omaha and Sunday, 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. For more information, call 334-6403. have six children and nine grandchildren.

OldtEmera/Y.&S. Review

by Art Grossman

It was double our pleasure-double our fun at the Ferer; Hospitality, Sally Venger; Early Bird, Toni Oldtimers/Young Energetic Seniors May 11 get-to- Kucher/Art Grossman. ' • ' gether. The combo of a Mother's Day party and At an abbreviated Early Bird discussion, focus installation of new officers inspired more than 100 was directed at two major topics: Israel and PLO folks to share the festivities. Gifts were presented stymied peace process and, Nebraska's primary to the Moms. Barbara Gottlieb, Executive Director election. of the Rose Blumkin Home, did the installation Following lunch, seven Dancing Grannies had honors. Her introductions were well thought of as the audience clapping and rocking in rhythm as well as humorous. Executive officers are: they vigorously did their routines.

President, Art Grossman"; Vice-President, Tony Our membership has passed the 300 mark.

Kucher; Recording Secretary, Millie Altman; New additions include: Life Member: Sheri Treasurer, Ann Margolin; Membership Dues, Mulnick; other members: Al Jacoby, Toby Frieda Krizelman. • , Szmerlak, Mary Covalciuc.

Chairpersons: Program, Dr. Milton Margolin; In sick bay as of this report: Bernard Fink, Telephone, Bess Hornstein; Newsletter, Reya Clarkson; Minnie Green'arid'Reva Oruch, Oruch; Contributions, Bess Rothenberg; Maitre D, 'Methodist. ::s':: . ^ \':{]j :'^:' Dan Greenfield; Courtesy, Esther Waxman; Shalom. , Historian, Charlotte .Kaplan; Hospital Report, Kay

litMl'

Neil and Janey Joachim announce the March 26 birth of their son, Max Robert. They also have a daughter, Emily Jam's.

Grandparents are Jerry and Charney Rosinsky of Omaha and the late Janice Rosinsky, and Anne Joachim of Houston and the late Robert Joachim.

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Send resume to:

Susan A. Drazen Jewish Educational and Library Services 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154 (Resumes must be received by May 27)

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VISIONS Catered Picnic at Chalco Hills Recreation Area is Sunday, June 7, from 12:30-4 p.m. Cost is $5 per person. Lunch will be served from 12:30-1 p.m. in the board room of the Natural Resources Center Building. Outdoor games and hiking available all day or bring cards and other games. Food, is catered by Hy-Vee. Space is iimi'ted to 40 for indoors eating or carry your food outdoors to the picnic tables. For reservations, mail form with full payment by June 1 to Rosalie and Maurie Meiches, 5036 Parker, Omaha, NE .68104.

Come cheer on the Omaha Royals when they play the Calgary Cannons at the Annual Baseball & BBQ on Thursday, June 11. Cost is $11 per person and includes dinner buffet and ball game ticket.

Dinner at 5:30 p.m. at the Stadium View Club.

Park free near the club. Game starts at 7:05 p.m.

For reservations, mail form by June 1 to Harry Alloy, 11317 Harney Plaza Circle, Omaha, NE 68154.

Join Visions for a fun afternoon in Brownville, NE. Music by Debbie Shapiro Graviffe, new on the cabaret circuit, on Sunday, July 19. Cost is $30 per person and includes coach transportation, admission to show, dinner, tax and tip. Depart from Temple Israel west parking lot at 1 p.m. and return approximately at 8 p.m. Dinner at the Brownville House at 5:30, following the show: Mail form with full payment by June 10 to Rosalie and Maurie Meiches, 5036 Parker Street. Omaha, NE 68104. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services for all events.

BREADBREAKERS John Green, an Omaha attorney, will speak to B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers Wednesday at noon at the Highland Country Club. Mr. Green, a candidate for the Omaha Public Power District Board, will give his analysis of the recent elections.

Cost is $7.75 and the event is open to the public.

No reservations are necessary, , . •.•...-.,. :

Ediar's second annual Mr. AZA Pageant Last year, Ediar #710 hosted the first annual Mr. AZA Pageant and Jeremy Ivers won the >; title. >•• This year, Jeremy r will give up his .title, fEdiar #710 will host t1 the second annual Mr. y, AZA Pageant on June y 2, 6:30 p.m., at the f Jewish Community Center. Cost is $3 per person.

Three categories will be judged by a panel of Jeremy Ivers Ediar seniors: interview, evening wear and talent.

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Temple Israel Music Committee to host Cantors Concert

by Nancy Wolf, Co-Chair

The Music Committee at Temple Israel has announced it will host a Cantor's Concert on June 14 at 7:30 p.m. Three Cantors, Leo Fettman of Beth Israel, Emil Berkovits of Beth El and Erik Contzius of Temple Israel will participate.

According to Harry Alloy, Co-Chair, "The overflow crowd at the 1997 concert was greatly enthused and entertained by the three cantors of diverse backgrounds, as they harmonized together.

This has to be done again and again."

The concert will be a combination of solo and duet selections as well as three-voice harmonies.

Liturgical and popular melodies will make up the program. A gourmet desBert reception will follow the concert.

Singers from the area congregations will also perform. Temple Israel's Kol Rina Choir will be joined by choir members and singing enthusiasts from Beth El, Beth Israel and Beyt Shalom in a presentation of several songs under the direction of Cantors Berkovits and Contzius.

Tickets for this one-time performance are $10 for adults; $5 for students; children 13 and under are free. Patron tickets are available for $75. Patrons will receive two tickets, and their names will be printed in the program. All proceeds will benefit the Music Fund at Temple Israel.

For more information, call me at 330-6736, Harry Alloy at 697-8709 or Temple Israel at 556-6536.

Beth El to present show of members' works

by Cheryl Lerner ' Art work by members of Beth El Synagogue will be on display May 30-June 7 in the Beth El Social Hall during regular synagogue hours.

In1 preparation for the show, program chairman Daniel Christensen wanted to explore the question, "What is Jewish Art?" "Some writers on the subject have said that any Judaic themed a r t form, whether by Jew''o'f Gentile, qualifies," said Christensen. "Others have made the claim that any artwork executed by a Jew, Judaic themed or not, should be deemed Jewish art. We are taking the latter view."

Works by both professional and amateur artist members will be featured. Mediums include photography, painting, drawing, pottery, papercuts, multi-media, even doodles.

The artists' backgrounds are as varied as the art they create. Artists represented include a doctor, hairdresser, teacher, rabbi, student, retired senior, among others, ranging in age from 13-83. Some works will be for sale, with 20% of the proceeds going to future Adult Education programs.

Participating artists include: Jeffrey Baum, Daniel Christensen, Irv Chudacoff, Rabbi Paul Drazen, Lynn Easterday, Lisa Epstein, David Finkle, Ellie Greenspoon, Sindie Katskee, Ozzie Nogg, Daniel Ocanto, Ophir Palmon, Adam Rich, Phil Rich, Jennifer Rifkin and Marty Shukert.

A reception for the artists will follow the Beth El Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 7 at 7 p.m.

City-wide Teen Social Program scheduled

by Tiffany Eisenmah

For the first time ever, NCSY, in conjunction with BBYO, USY and OTYG, is planning a citywide Teen Social Program (T.S.P.).

Why do this?

Well, with Omaha's limited Jewish population, many teens don't know other Jewish kids outside their friendship groups. This program will give teenagers from all around Omaha a chance to meet and kick off the summer.

The program is plann'ed for J u n e 10 and will include dinner, color wars, a bonfire, and activities such as basketball, movies and music. It is open to all Omaha teens in grades 9-12 and will run from 6p.m.-la.m.

Questions? Call your local youth group adviser.

May 22,1098

What's new in the stacks?

New novels at the Jewish Federation Library Thorns of Truth by Eileen Goudge is the longawaited sequel to Garden of Lies. Rachel and Rose, now women with grown children of their own, find themselves face-to-face at last with the destiny that has haunted them for nearly half a century, since " the two were switched at birth in the chaos of a hospital fire.

Filled with passion and drama, Thorns of Truth brings the tale of love and family to a resolution at last. The Chicago Tribune describes the book as satisfying and heartlifting and Goudge as a gifted writer with an eye for the telling detail.

The Baker is the first novel of writer Paul Hond.

According to Carla Cohen, owner of Politics and Prose Bookstore, "ThiB is an astonishing debut, especially from such a young man. . .His depiction of the unlikely marriage between an unworldly baker and a French violinist is splendid. The plotting of the book is superb. The discussion of the suspicious relationship between Jews and blacks is right on target."

Advance praise for Hond has likened him to Malamud and Dreiser and he is described as a bright new voice in Jewish literature.

Persian Brides, a novel by Dorit Rabinyan, is set at the turn of the century in the fictional Persian village of Omerijan, and tells the story of two young girls and their many neighbors in the almond tree alley where they live. Fifteen-years old, pregnant and abandoned by her husband, Flora longs for the return of her unborn baby's father. Her sister, Nazie, consoles and pities her, and though only 11, she yearns for her own future marriage. Although the narrative spans only two days, it branches out and back, encompassing the lives of many of Omerijan's inhabitants.

A tragic love story as well as a gripping political novel, Lover, Traitor defies easy formulas at every turn. Anna Mitgutsch has written with psychological acuity and in language shot through with chilling, sinister poetry* It is at once a cautionary tale of ethnic loathing, a heartfelt plea for trust and fraternity, and a work of terrible beauty.

Ms. Mitgutsch has won numerous German literary awards for her fiction.

Jewish ViiesB, Omaha, NE

Page?

Nebraska Storytelling Festival scheduled The Nebraska Storytelling Festival, a three-day telling and listening adventure for children and adults, will begin Friday, June 19 at noon, and run through Sunday, June 21. It will be held at College of Saint Mary in Omaha.

The Festival combines world-class storytelling and interactive, learning-focused workshops. It features 16 workshops and 16 separate telling events to choose.from, including the popular Ghosting on ;Friday night.

Full weekend'registration includes the Kick-off Luncheon on June 19. Cost is $99 for adults, $89 for seniors, and $35 for children. Passes and discounts are available for multi-event participants.

Tickets for single events ($6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children) may be purchased at the door. There is a discount if purchased by June 10.

This year's line-up of national and regional tellers J features six of the nation's best. In addition, the Peninah Schram of New York City, one of the Festival will showcase 27 regional tellers including nation's leading Jewish storytellers, is the Karen Libman, Duane Hutchinson and David author of Jewish Stories One Generation Tells Landis; all from Lincoln, Joyce Slater from Kansas Another, Eight Tales for Eight Nights, and City, Judith Simundson from Dubuque, IA, Chris Tales of Elijah the Prophet Buethe front New Mexico, and Omaha's Five Bright school age. A sequence of workshops and telling for Chicks, (including Rita Paskowitz and Ozzie Nogg). children runs Friday and Saturday of the Festival.

The Festival offers one hour of academic credit The Festival has been made possible, in part, by for graduates or undergraduates through College of funding from the Alan & Marcia Baer Charitable Saint Mary. A three-hour course in Storytelling, Trust, the Nebraska Humanities Council, the taught by Nancy Duncan, is also open to graduates • Nebraska Arts Council and United Arts Omaha. and under graduates and includes attendance at More information and tickets are available at the the Festival.

Story Monkey Bookstore, 517 S. 13th St., 402-344The event is not recommended for children under 4645, or from the Festival office at 402-551-4532.

IDF brigadier general visits Omaha Brigadier General Orit Adato, center, of the Israel Defense Force, visited Omaha recently as a guest of the American Israel Friendship League and the Jewish Community Center. The general met Marcia and Steve Pitlor in Israel as part of an AIFL trip and they arranged for her to speak to several groups here, including religious school classes at Beyt Shalom, Temple Israel and Beth El, the.EriedelJewish Academy, JCC and Federation staff, BBYOers going to Israel and BBG. This is the general's second trip to the U.S. _/

The Old Religion by David Mamet is based on actual events: the 1914 trial of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager in Georgia, falsely accused of raping and murdering a young white Southern girl. Convicted by the perjured testimony, of the actual killer and the lies of other factory girls, the mild-mannered Frank hears himself portrayed as a leering sexual predator, while outside the courthouse a frenzied demagogue whips the crowd into an anti-Semitic fury. Sentenced to life in prison, Frank-is dragged from jail-castrated and lynched.

In this novel, Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Mamet turns these events into a work of profound originality and literary impact. ..

National Geographic magazine to be published in Hebrew WASHINGTON—Starting in June 1998, National Geographic will bring its global adventure to readers in Hebrew, broadening the international reach of the magazine.

It wil) be available both in Israel and to readers pf Hebrew in the United-States and will be produced in partnership with Hed Arzi Ltd., a publisher of music, books and electronic media, and Maariv-Modi'in, the publisher of Ma'ariv, a leading Hebrew daily newspaper. Both are owned by the Israel Land Development Co., a company traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market in the. United States and on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange in Israel.

The Hebrew edition will be published monthly under license from the National Geographic Society and will follow closely the editorial content of the English-language original, in the same format with the familiar yellow-bordered cover. The distribution of the Hebrew edition in Israel will be in addition to the English-language copies already circulated; '

EL AL offers the only nonstop from Chicago to Israel. Best of all, there's no changing planes in Europe early in the morning. And to make your flight even more pleasant, ' _• •'". " \ all EL AL flights worldwide are now ————^ non-smoking. Sweet dreams.

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 22,1998

Part II in a series "Jews and the Military"

Serving "Jews on the outermost edge"

by Carol Katzman

When Rabbi Ira Flax began serving as a chaplain in the Air Force, he ran across airmen with names like 'Goldberg' and 'Balfour.' In speaking to these young recruits, he discovered they had little, if any, connection to their Jewish roots.

"I serve in the outermost periphery of Jewish life," Major Flax related to a group of about 15 at a recent Beth El Synagogue Men's Club breakfast.

"Being Jewish in the military is like being in a club that has no membership requirements," he added, "It's a voluntary choice to declare oneself Jewish, yet I'm seeing more and more air force personnel do just that."

Rabbi Flax, whose background includes both an Orthodox yeshiva and the Conservative Jewish Theological Seminary, entered the military in 1988 to serve as a chaplain in Biloxi, Mississippi. In nine years he has served on five bases, including Turkey, Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany, the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, and most recently, here at Offutt Air Force Base.

He is one of 600 chaplains in the U.S. Air Force, •and one of only 10 rabbis.

"These airmen on the 'edge' wind up there because of prejudices passed on to them by their parents," he noted, "but they know that they don't fit in with the Christian personnel."

When asked how he reaches out to these unaffiliated Jews, Rabbi Flax told the group "it's like running a marathon; you can't do it without daily practice."

That practice means introducing young Jews to ritual objects and the rich symbolism of Judaism, according to Flax.

"Candles, tefillin, tallit, matza, a Hanukkah menorah-these are very powerful for people who are not exposed to them on a regular basis," he noted. "Our prayer implements, our 'ritual stuff, has great appeal."

Because he feels so strongly about the power of these ritual objects, he created a special chaplain's kit for his three-week tour of duty in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain last winter.

Using a medical kit bag, he packed a number of objects in his "shul in a box" as he called it. Inside,

he showed the group his folded tallit (prayer shawl), a velvet cloth with a Magen David (six-pointed Jewish star) embroidered on it in gold), a collapsible kiddish cup and traveling candlesticks, several books and other items.

"A member of the civil engineering squadron made a hidden Hannukkiah," Flax demonstrated. Composed of two pieces of carved wood, it opens to reveal little cups to be filled with oil for Hanukkah.

Flax uses a syringe to fill the cups and adds a small wick to each one.

He uses a pillboxshaped container used Rabbi Ira Flax, wearing desert camouflage, unpacks his chaplains kit. by priests for the rite of 'unction' as a spice box (filled with cologne) for hav- "At the very least, we have the Sh'ma," said Flax, "which, in the middle of the desert when you're dallah, the service which ends Shabbat.

The books he carries in the kit are also quite com- waiting for orders that might endanger your life, is pact. One is a siddur, which the rabbi said "has a very powerful symbol and reminder of the holieverything in it, including how to tie knots in ness of the word of God. "Plus," the rabbi continued, "I can even use the tzizzit (ritual fringes worn on a tallit). The others include a Kitzur Shulchan Aurch, a book listing all four sections contained in the tefillin as readings 613 mitzvot, commandments, and a small volume of. from the Torah to use during a service."

Major Flax considers his job as one of mekarev, or Mishnayot, (from the Talmud) so he can "study "bringing Jews closer."

Mishnah when I have the opportunity.

One example is the B-l bomber squadron com"Since Saudi Arabia is not a signer of an agreement which allows us to bring our ritual objects mander who came one day to services and put on and prayers into the country, all of it can be confis- tefillin, something he hadn't done since his Bar cated," Rabbi Flax said. He rolled his own tefillin Mitzvah, according to Major Flax.

"Can you imagine the statement that makes and tallit into his sleeping bag and hoped that the when sergeants and recruits see an officer involved Saudi inspectors wouldn't find them. . in a Jewish ritual?" the rabbi asked. "I heard that They didn't.

In addition to the Shabbat articles and the meno- after I left Saudi Arabia, the commander started ' "• rah, Flax also cut open a box from an old pair of coming to services regularly."

Rabbi Flax, who arrived in Omaha last August tefillin so he can show Jews with little knowledge an actual piece of parchment with words of Torah with his wife, Vicki, and children, Debra, 8, and Benjamin, 5, hopes to be here for at least another written on it by hand. two years.

But wherever the major is stationed, he is sure to have an affect on every Jew he meets.

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May 22,1998

Report from BsraeB

Page'il

EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE Due to the closing of the Jewish Press office on Sunday and Monday, May 31 and June 1 for the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, the deadline for ads, copy, and photos for the June 5 issue is noon on Wednesday. May 27. Thank you for your cooperation.

by Mary Fellman

Whether the length of ones stay in Israel is six weeks or six days, it is never long enough. My recent stay began just as the Purim service was about to open with the reading of the Megillah at the Conservative Synagogue in Jerusalem. It ended a few days after a glorious Passover holiday with delicious meals shared by 15 family members who also spent five relaxing days up north at Kfar Blum. And there was so much in between.

One day it snowed and the housetops were covered in white. Another day there was a sandstorm of yellow sand from the Sahara and then there were touring packed days that included so many new highlights.

I will always remember the two war veterans who are the guiding spirit of Simcha, the organization that cares about the 60,000 wounded Israeli servicemen. One man had lost a leg, the other had lost an arm and a leg. It was like sitting with two of the 36 righteous Jews and cherishing each of their soft spoken priceless words.

I shall always remember the thrill of being in the Central Zionist museum and seeing the replica of the table and lectern where Ben Gurion stood to declare the Independence of the State of Israel, and seeing where the notables sat, including Golda Meir.

Attending the dedication of the Bethsaida dig and

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In the Kfar Blum area, we could see the piles of snow on the top of Mount Hermon, walked through ancient ruins of homes and synagogues, and enjoyed Passover meals we did not have to cook.

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More than a foot of snow fell on Jerusalem just after Purim.

And with it all it was a time for family and the great work that has already been done on that excavation and partial restoration was another friends, for sharing grandchildren and nephews and nieces, both from Israel and the United States, highlight.

Standing at the graves of Israeli soldiers and par- for eating out at a variety of kosher pizza, pasta, ticularly that of Yitzhak Rabin was another emo- vegetarian and meat restaurants and always reltional moment as was seeing the name of my moth- ishing the delicious desserts and wondrous ice er's shtetl of Puchovitch in the Valley of the Lost cream combinations.

It was also a time for sitting in on a study group, volCommunities at Yad Vashem. The memorial service there with Omaha tourists and Rabbi Arieh unteering for Hadassah, traveling for a day with Amit Azriel leading the service and all of us singing women, hearing the glorious Israeli Philharmonic and Haiikvah together was another "unforgettable" learning so much from the spectacular exhibits at the moment as was seeing one of the rail cars in which the Israel Museum, Bible Land Museum, Tel Aviv Jews were pushed and crowded on their way to Museum, Tower of David and others.

And one of the grand moments was enjoying a birthAuschwitz. day dinner at the Hyatt with Shane and David Kotok, And then there were the the moments of eating kosher hamburgers at the Burger King in the Jean and Jack Duitch, my sister and brother-in-law, mammoth Jerusalem Shopping Center, enjoying de- Annie and Harry Allen. And there is so much more to share and tell.

REED/SCHWARTZ Dr, Michael and Barbara Kesler of East Brunswick, N.J., and Dr. Allen H- Reed of Southfield, MI, have announced the engagement of their daughter, Esther, to Mordecai | Schwartz, son of Ann and Don | Schwartz of Omaha. j Miss Kesler is a graduate of Bryri I Mawr College; Mr. Schwartz is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha. They both attend the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in New York and are studying to become rabbis.

Mr. Schwartz is the grandson of Janette Kibel of Omaha.

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• ' . . • " " ' , ,l t ' A September, wedding is planned. f *"-J'**" 1 j5i'** ' - '•J»Vv£^'"'" 1 '"''" A community reception in honor of t..!.!.J-.'!'>3V .' *.v»"M. 'lS_'~i..'i— .-•.'•l».i...v the couple's engagement will be Sunday, June 28, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at Temple Israel.

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Page 12 .

Jewish Press> Omaha, NE

May 22; 1998-

Yale Richards

Israeli literature and discussion series to begin this summer

by Gloriann Levy

The Israel 50 Celebration continues at the Jewish Community Center with the "Adventures in Israeli Literature Summer Reading Series."

Participants will be introduced to the works of three prominent Israeli authors in discussions led by three talented Omahans. The program schedule is as follows: The Iron Tracks by Aharon Appelfeld "Newest addition to the body of work of one of the most important Holocaust writers alive today.

Appelfeld never writes directly about the camps or horrors, but rather around them . . . It is the unspoken nature of suffering, and the shadows the Holocaust casts on its living victims that makes this work so eerily powerful."—Hadassah Magazine Discussant: Mike Gendler, Associate Professor of History at College of Saint Mary where he specializes in the History of Nazi Germany, June 10.

City of Many Days by Shulamith Hareven Winner of the Prime Minister's Creativity prize in Israel. "Brilliant. . . Hareven's poetic narrative is powerful enough to foment an intense desire to make that historic, spiritual, memorable pilgrimage (to Jerusalem)."—Los Angeles Times Discussant: Orly Gilat, native Israeli, who has resided in the United States, for nine years. She runs her own consulting firm for economic developThe discussions, on Wednesday evenings from ment called Gilat Planning and Research, July 1.

7-9 p.m., are free and open to the public. The only Mr. Mani by A. B, Yehoshua cost of the program is $10 per book. Participants A New York Times Notable Book of the Year, are strongly encouraged to buy copies of the books Winner of the first Israeli Literature Prize. "Mr. and read selections before each program.

Mani is one of the most remarkable pieces of fiction To order books, please call Edie Wolf at the I have ever read and convinced me more than ever Jewish Federation Library at 334-6461 by June 1. of A.B. Yehoshua's very great gift."—Alfred Kazin This program is co-sponsored by the Jewish Discussant: Susie Drazen, Director of Jewish Education and Library Services and Jewish Education and Library Services, August. 19.

Cultural Arts Council.

(Continued from page 1) According to Newman, "The Livingston Foundation provided initial seed money and helped fund administrative costs of the Federation Foundation for its first six or seven years. By raising professional awareness, the seminars will bring attention to changes in the law and new approaches and ideas and will raise donors' awareness of the Federation Foundation. Seminars for potential donors will also be held and will encourage them to contact their professional advisors to initiate one of the various forms of planned giving."

The Livingston Foundation, created by Milton and Corinne Livingston in 1948, has been one of the leading contributors to the Jewish Federation and other Jewish institutions.

The Trustees, including Stanley Slosburg, Suzanne Singer and Jerry Hobermani have tried to carry on the philanthropy which the Livingstons practiced during their lifetime, and to support those institutions which were dear to them, according to Kully. ..'••••; "It has been the expressed hope of all the Trustees," Kully added, "that Yale Richards will continue to serve the Livingston Foundation for many years' into the future." • Silvia Hoffman, Claudia Sherman, Suzanne Singer contributed to this article.

Summer Library hours begin May 26 Summer hours at the Jewish Federation Library will begin Tuesday, May 26. The schedule, which will be in effect through August 23 is: ' Sunday: 1 to 5 p.m.

Monday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Library will be closed Sunday and Monday, May 24 and 25, for Memorial weekend and May 31 and June 1 for the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.

For more information, call 334-6461.

Building aJewish Neighborhood forthe 21st Century CZ We're Helping to Build the Neighborhood!

ournouse/o yyours.

(The following people have made commitments to the Campus Building Fund and have allowed their names to be published.)

Founders. $250.000 and above Phil & Terri Schrager Milt & Pauline Abrahams Tom & Darlynn Fcllman - Howard & Sharon Kooper Meyer & Dorothy Kripke Bob & Phyllis Newman - Murray & Sharee Newman The Simon Family Alan & Anne Simon Bruce & Stacy Simon Fred & Eve Simon Steve & Kalhryn Simon todd Simon Builders. $100.000 - $249.999 Louie & Fran Blumkin Friedland Family Foundation Frohm Foundation Joe & Maxine Kirshenbaum -Harlan & Nancy Noddle Ihe Riekes Family Henry & Dorothy Riekes Steve & Margo Riekes . Carl &ZoBRiekes Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation Anonymous Pioneers. $50.000 - $99.999 Joe & Ruth Erman In Memory of Eileen Erman by: Mike Erman Michael & Lori Miller Jonathan & Stacey Rockrrian Ike & Roz Friedman Foundation Howard & Gloria Kaslow Steve & Patty Nogg In Memory of Burton L. Robinson by: Sam & Frances Fried Andrew & Kimberly Robinson Mark & Paula Robinson Gene & Nancy Rech Harley & Beth Schrager

Pioneers.fcontinued) Irving & Gail Veitzer - Norman & Jobdi Veitzer Speedy & Hermene Zweiback Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Groundbreakers. $25.000 - $49.999 Helen Brodkey Jack & Marcia Cohen The Glazer Family Richard & Phyllis Glazer Jim & Jordana Glazer John & Jennifer Glazer Art & Ruth Goldstein The Lehr Family Marty & Joanie Lehr Bruce & Cindy Goldberg Susan Lehr John & Sandy Lehr David & Sue Meyers Alan & Carol Parsow N. Pitlor & Sons, Inc., In Memory of Norman Pitlor The Platt Family Max & Dorothy Platt Mike & Barb Platt Jeff & Ellen Platt' Anonymous

Please join us inthis incredible opportunity!

To make a contribution, contact the Project Co-chairmen: Fatty & SteveNogg,493-3479 Marcia & Steve Htlor, 496-4632 or call Ibm Fellman or Howard Kooper, 392-1800.

(All contributions ate payable over 3 years. Minimum donation for a dedication la $1,000.)

Leaders $10.000 - $24.999 The Epstein Family Harold & Etta Epstein Paul & Sandy Epstein Gary & Lisa Epstein Rosie Gross Kevee & Myma Kirshenbaum Sol & LeeJane Parsow Stuart & Esther Simon Anonymous Innovators, under $10.000 Margie Alperson Jeffrey & Susan Aizenberg Aryeh&ElyceAzriel Bruce & Jill Baron John & Angie Bekins Gerald & Lois Bcmstien Willard & Thama Friedman Yale & Ida Halperin Jerome & Sylvia Kaiman PauIKaiman Jeff & Sharon Kirshenbaum Doris Kwiatek Henry & PamMonsky Stuart & Bettic Muskin , Andrew & Kimberly Robinson Milt & Rosaline Saylan Ed & Carol Schneider Marc & Claudia Sherman Moe & Muriel Steinberg Joe & Miriam Soshnik .f Isadore & Selma Tretiak Howard & Judy Vann and Family Gordon & Joy Watanabe Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous