Serving Nebraska and Eastern Iowa for more than 75 VoLLXXV
No.44
NE HIST SOCIETY 1500 R ST LINCOLN NE 6 8 5 0 8 - 1 6 5 1
Omaha, NE
x nv, urao
and Zayde with LOVE.. / -filled family affair by Bert Lewis
Mother and daughter team Ann Belmont (left), and Marlene Sukiennik are chairing the event to recognize grandparents.
LOVE co-chairmen Patty Nogg (left), meets with Joanie Jacobson, who wrote and is directing "The Magic of Mishpocha."
According to the calendar, Grandparents Day is Sunday, Sept. 13. However, the leadership of the League Offering Volunteers to the Elderly have changed that to Sunday, Aug. 30, this year. Patty Nogg, who with husband, Steve, is. co-chair of LOVE, has announced plans for a festive day of inter-generational celebration of our Bubbes and Zaydes called To Bubbe and Zayde with Love..." a fulfilled family affair. .-••••— r——-*~~-V-T-, '
Mrs. Nogg explained that the event, planned for the last Sunday in August at the Jewish Community Center, will be a double affair. First, a gala recognition of the grandparents of the community and their impact on everyone whose lives they have touched. ; Second, is the opportunity to remind everyone what LOVE is all about and what it's doing. •; (Continued on page 6) . ..
uuiy « , 1998
"Your contribution to the Building Fund could put us over the top!" Howard Kooper, Federation President
Building a Jewish Community forthe 21st Century less than $1 million away from goal! (See story on page 7)
Beth Israel to honor Gonshers by Caroj Katzman
For their many years of service to the synagogue and the Jewish community, Rabbi Allan and Rini Gonsher will be honored at a Shabbat dinner, Friday, Aug. 7 at 7 pan. at Beth Israel Synagogue. The dinner is one of several events during the Summer Enrichment Educational Program (SEED), slated from July 30 through Aug. 12, according to its chairman,'Bob Oberman. A Shabbat dinner for contributors is Friday, July 31, and two community Shabbat luncheons are scheduled on consecutive Saturdays, Aug. 1 and Aug. 8. In addition, nightly lectures and one-on-one cftewriisa-style learning will be taught by Rabbi and Mrs. Yehuda Brecher, Rabbi and Mrs. Ghezky Schuck and two students from Yeshiva Chaim Perlin in Brooklyn, N.Y. "The Gorishers have helped create an atmosphere of enthusiasm for Jewish education and Torah observance In Omaha," said Rabbi Howard Kutner, spiritual leader of Beth Israel Synagogue."Allan has initiated, numerous Torah learning projects for our youth and the Gonsher home has always been open for Shabbos and Yom Tovim hospitality for countless numbers of those in need of a place to stay." The Gonshers arrived in Omaha 18 years ago when Jewish Family Service offered him the position of Executive Director. He served in that position for six year's and then, in 1985, opened his own' counseling and therapy clinic, Kid's Inc., serving families with children under age 12. Arriving in Omaha with two young sons, the Gonshers immediately became involved in Jewish community life. As members of both Beth Israel and Beth El Synagogues, they read Torah, led services, (including Jr. Congregation) and actively supported Jewish education in Omaha. When their oldest son, Josh, entered fifth grade, Allan decided that Omaha needed to reinvigorate the old SYO (Synagogue Youth Organization) and
was there for more than 30 years. I've tried,to emulate my grandparents, to live the kind of observant lifestyle they led." ,• The Gonshers met in Israel while both were students and later returned to continue their Jewish studies. Their firstborn, Josh, now 21, was born there. He's currently a student at Queens College and Torah.Mitzion in New York. '.' v - • In addition to earning B.A. degrees at both the California State University at Northridge and the University of Judaism, Allan went on to receive rabbinic ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary and an M.A. in social work from Columbia University. A member of the Rabbinical Assembly of America and the Academy of Certified Social Workers, he is also a published author of Tips for Kids, From Kids, and Popcorn Walk in 101 Play Therapy Techniques. His short volume for the general public, An Allowance is Not a Bribe, will shortly be published by Jason Aronson as a larger volume geared to i'and Allan Gonsher (seated) are the par- Jewish families. • ents of three sons, from left: Ben, 18, Zack, 16, "We have taken the journey together," Rini said and Josh, 20. about her 26-year marriage to' Allan. "We disagree, start a chapter of NCSY, National Conference of we compromise, and we are lucky and proud to have Synagogue Youth, the Orthodox movement's youth three committed Jewish sons."' group. For the' past 10 years, he has served as vol- Ben, 18, who recently graduated from the Yeshiva unteer director of both Jr. and Sr. NCSY in of the South in Memphis, will spend a year in Israel Omaha. With their home open to Jewish teens at Derech Eitz Chaim Yeshiva. Zack, 16, just left for looking for a rich, Jewish experience, the Gonshers JOLT, a six-week trip to Poland, Russia and Israel, have used NCSY and Shabbat as a model for living sponsored by NCSY. After returning from this Jewishlives. Jewish Overseas Leadership Training, he will be a "Parents instill the values of Judaism," said senior at Central High School. Rabbi Gonsher, "We further it. For 18 years, Allan served on the Board of "We both grew up in traditional Jewish homes, Directors of the Friedel Jewish Academy and Rini where Shabbos and holidays were an integral part taught Jewish Studies and Hebrew there. All three of our neshamas (souls),* he continued, "I want oth- sons graduated from FJA. , ers to experience what a Jewish household is like." "We have a commitment to this community and Rini added, "My.grandfather was the first cantor at the first Conservative shul in Cincinnati. And he (Continued on page 11)
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 24,1998
She's short ! She's sexy ! She tells the truth ! She's ESr. Ruth ! A, Coming October 20
Deaths
Parashiyyot Mattot-Masei
ROSE S. KATELMAN Services for Rose Katelman, 94, were held July 22 at Cutter Chapel. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Jennifer Blum officiated. Burial was at Bikhor Cholim Cemetery in Council Bluffs. She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis, and son, Buddy Katelman. Survivors include daughter and son-in-law/ Sissy and Howard Silber of Bellevue; grandchildren, Tracy Katelman of Petrolla, CA, Lisa and Mike Scott of Gualala, CA, and Steve Katelman of San Francisco. Mrs. Katelman and her husband founded Katelman Hardware in Council Bluffs in 1934. Following her husband's death, she and her daughter continued the business until 1981. Memorials suggested to.B'nai Israel Synagogue in Council Bluffs or charity of choice.
by Rabbi Myer S. Kripke
n-. Cjmp»lflp
Tctratcuch •- Pentateuch-Hexateuch With our two Sidrot we bring to a close our reading of BeMidbar. Larry Hasslinger of Thus also"we.end the Tetrateuch-the first four City Sprinkler Company and books of the Bible. This is a natural ending, since Deuteronomy is a kind of appendix, completing a David Morar of Pentateuch (five books), and bringing to an end the Automatic Rain Inc. leadership of Miriam, Aaron and Moses. announce the merger of their companies And yet, since the Pentateuch doesn't get the Kor prompt., rplinhlo service mid for Israelites into the Promised Land, there are those New Sprinkler Installations who think that the natural division should be a call Larry or David 4 0 2 - 8 9 6 - 8 2 4 0 Hexateuch (six books), including Joshua, so that i Licensed •Bonded* Insured* Member NTIA our ancestors actually get into the Holy Land! As Jews jjgr se, not worrying about what scholars and critics worry about, we love the Torah as we have it, a Pentateuch ritually read from a hand-indited Scroll. Think for a moment how much we would have lost if the Torah had ended with our reading today, •' -' • • • A l a n H . F r i e d m a n the end of BeMidbar! Those great "sermons" of • • President • Graduate Gcmologist Moses that fill Deuteronomy are among the mostimpassioned and glorious chapters of the Bible, 9107 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 320 not surpassed by the ethically sensitive and literBeverly Hills, California 90210 arily soaring addresses of the great prophets. 888«489»4545 • Pax 310»278»5449 Indeed, we need not hesitate to recognize that the Member of West Coast Diamond Club ' ; ' Estate Jewelers Association <>r America authors) of Deuteronomy had the teachings of the --American Gem Trade Association great 8th century prophets before him/her/them. At this stage of the game, it is unimportant-in a practical sense-that most of the place-names in Schollman's our current Sidrot, the places where our ancestors ' Bcautifiil Decorative passed through on their way from Egypt to Canaan, cannot be identified. In a practical sense, Cabinet, Door & it is also unimportant whether or not they were Bath Hardware joined in escaping Egypt by other, non-Israelite, Supply browse our showrooms till 8p.m. every Thursday slaves. In a practical sense, it is also unimportant whether or not they were joined in Canaan by SchoIImnn's your personnl hardware consultant other, non-Israelite, local inhabitants, who were 593-9210 impressed with the idea of a God-Who makes-for 8425 "F" St. (across from Acura) freedom. But something is important. re-established, 199B What is important is that there emerged a people. Israelites, who in time produced a religious civilization that called for justice, freedom, and — CLIP & SAVE concern for humanity. This civilization, this culture, this way of living under a particular c appraisal of human life before God, left the legacy L that inspires and informs Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. P As we unroll the sacred Scroll next week from & BeMidbar to Deuteronomy, we are continuing and emphasizing the cultural and spiritual legacy of S FRIDAY, JULY 24 ancient Israel, upon which so much of the modern A world bases its highest ideals. V Russian Club, 10 a.m. How good it is to be a Jew! Mah yafa E Temple Israel Summer Service, yerushatenul How beautiful is our heritage!
ALAN FRIEDMAN C O .
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
6 p.m., Frohm Pavilion MONDAY, JULY 27 YES Program, 9:30 a.m. TUESDAY, JULY 28 BBYONight, 6p.m. THURSDAY, JULY 30 Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m.
p All events held at the JCC unless otherwise P indicated. The Jewish Press is hot responsi& ble for the accuracy of the above events. To & S keep calendar accurate or for questions, call S A Marlene Hert at 334-6437. A V E
'S PHARMACY & HOMECARE
FANNIE P. WINTNER Services for Fannie P. Wintner were held July 19 at Golden Hill Cemetery. She was 86. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack, and daughter, Elaine Phyllis Goldberg. Survivors include grandchildren, Maria Cohen, Bruce Goldberg and David Goldberg; eight greatgrandchildren; brothers, Harold Pasternack and Max Pasternack; and sister-in-law, Winnie Pasternack. Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. PEARL (SHERMAN) LIPTON Services for Pearl Lipton of Swampscott, MA, formerly of Omaha, were held July 17 a t B'nai Abraham Cemetery, Fisher Farm. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph. • Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Maurice and Nancy Lipton of Vienna, VA, Dr. Howard and Pam Lipton of Highland Park, IL; daughter and son-in-law, Elise and Richard Rothbard of Swampscott; grandchildren, Joey, Bobby and Chad Lipton and Alyssa and Jenna Rothbard. Memorials to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; 220 N. Main St., Natick, MA 01760, MORTON FERER Morton Ferer, formerly of Omaha, died July 10 in Phoenix, AZ. Burial was in Phoenix. Survivors include his wife, Lee, son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Marcia Ferer, daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Martin Miller, and four grandsons, all of Phoenix; niece, Gwen Pred, and sister-in-law, Frances Ferer, both of Omaha; and nephew, William Ferer of Fort Lee, NJ.
Rose Blumkin Jewish Home needs yarmulkes
CORRECTION In the personal ad in last week's edition, David, Nancy, Rachel, Sara, Ben and Justin Jacobson were incorrectly listed as Davidson. The Jewish Press regrets the error. See the corrected version on page 3.
Anyone who has extra yarmulkes (or one they don't use) are asked to bring them to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Just drop them off at the front desk at the Home.
TH£ 0MXHX jeWIJH COMMUNITY ONLINE-... COMING SOON.
feeviii
Reduce vour risk factors
25 Years Experience L Steve Snail 558-8617 A
Itistfiiif C@ih &
Pulverente MONUMENT CO.
It's easier than writing a check anytime, anywhere.
Frank L. Ciciulla, Jr. 60 Years Experience With Jewish Lettering and Memorials
To The N*h Degree 536-2420 01908 Noiwosl B.inK Nebraska. N.A. • Member FDIC
CLIP & SAVE
fighting Heart Olstasi inaSmita
^ BLUE RIBBON" 5 ! Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
City wide Delivery 7 Locations
American Heart i Association-1^
www.jewishomaha.org
1439 So. 13th
341-2452
BETH ISBAEL SYNAGOGUE , Member of t h e Union ©f Orthodoa Jewish ConiprogatioiWi of America
-•• BETH, i t SYNAGOGUE ~ Merab«r of United Synagogues ' fCk^ttJfdS'"'"' 1430S California, Omaha, NE 68154
FRIDAY: "Shabbat in the Park": A shabbat Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. service will be led by Ann Kibel Schwartz at the Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. OfBce Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. Jewish Community Center's Frohm Pavillion. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. ' to 5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring a picnic supper a t 6 p . m . In case of FRTOAY: Kabbalat Shabbat service, 7 pan. Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen inclement weather, the service will be canceled. SATURDAY: Services, 8:45 aan.; Little People The regular service will be held at 7:30 p.m. in service, 10:15 aan.; Jr. Congregation, 1030 aan. and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY: Services, 6 p.m. . ' the Chapel. Rabbi Stiel and Cantor Jennifer Blum Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood; Pirkei Avos SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 aan. Kiddush folwill officiate. We will continue discussing the sum- class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:55 p.m., followed by mer Torah portions. Mincha, 8:25 p.m., Shalosh Seudot, Ma'ariv and lowing services; the Devar Torah will be given by Rabbi Ira Flax; Sitter service, 10 aan.; Shabbat SATURDAY: Shabbat service, 1030 aan. Havdalah. Story Time, first and third Saturday, 11 a.m.; Simcha B'Shabbat-An informal Shabbat service SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m.; Beis Midrash, 9:45that includes study and discussion of a variety of 10:30 a.m.--study Mishnah Sanhedrin; evening K'tantan, second and fourth Saturday/ ll,a.m.; ; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah, 8:40 p.m. , Jewish texts. services, 8:35 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 aan. ^ ;' Sitter service is available each Shabbat evening . MONDAY: Talmud class, using Tractate WEEKDAYS: Services, &55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; service. Please make a reservation so we may plan Brachos, with Rabbi Kutner, 7:30 pan. J u d a i c i a S h o p : Open Tuesday through; accordingly. There are no facilities for infants. WEEKDAYS: Thursday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. or by appointment. ADULT EDUCATION Services at 7 a.m. and 8:35 pan. THURSDAY, July 30: "Beyond Midrash," led by Wednesday and Friday: Beis Midrash, 7:45Don Schwartz, 7:30-8:30 p.m. 8:30 aan. •• study Mishnah Brachos. Evening service, 8:35 pan. Tuesday and Thursday: Beis Midrash, 9:15-' by Tom Tugend ~~~~~~~~~~ 10 pan. — Study the Parsha of the week. LOS ANGELES (JTA) - Prince of Egypt, a fulllength animated feature on the life of Moses, SATURDAY: Shabbat services, led by Don won't premiere until Dec. 18, but the publicity Schwartz, 9 aan. Kiddush following services. buildup is already in full swing. What is known already is that among the prodigious feats of computer-generated animation will be seven million locusts, 16,000 Israelites fleeing Egypt and a spectacular four-minute, parting of " Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. the Red Sea. Taking no chances, the producers have consultRosenbaum. ed some 500 religious leaders of all faiths - and Minyan on Monday and Thursday at 7:15 aan. the staff includes a full-time liaison to the Jewish FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m. community. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. FRIDAY: Tot Shabbat, 7 p.m. The film's look will draw on the epic cinematic Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:30 p.m. style of director David Lean — who made Summer Book Club selection: Lawrence of Arabia - the paintings of impressionStalking Elijah by Roger Kamenetz. ist Claude Monet, and the biblical illustrations of the 19th century French artist Gustave Dore. The voice of Moses will be actor Val Kilmer, and other voice parts will go to Michelle Pfeiffer and CONGREGATION B'NAIJESHURUN ^fy.f, - '>'••'A"" ~ ''• ..''...''....'. T...r..r >...." v\ - ', . Ralph Fiennes. When God speaks, it will likely be a combination of voice, sound effects and music. '-;-'*"; '^-^^V',t!!:MAi3Lc-'ofaabai^@aof.co'^^l'-' -.-' For the DreamWorks SKG studio, headed by the SATURDAY: Services, 9-.S0 aan. Kiddush fol- power trio of Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg lowing services. and David Geffen, much is at stake. Since its SUNDAY: Services, &30 a.m. launch with much fanfare three-and-a-half years Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. ago, DreamWorks has not come up with a certified TUESDAY: No Adult Education classes during WEDNESDAY: Mitzvah Munchkins class, . hit In particular, it's up to Katzenberg, who split June and July. . 10aan.-noon with the Walt Disney Studio in 1994, to prove that THURSDAY: Choir rehearsal, 7:30 pjn. THURSDAY: Talmud Class, noon. , he can equal or surpass his earlier Disney animaFRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 pan. tion hits of Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and The SATURDAY: Torah study, 10 ajn. Lion King. DreamWorks faces some tough marketing probMount Sinai Cemetery Association lems with its $50 million to $60 million project. approaches 65th anniversary The studio must convince moviegoers that Prince Dating back to 1934, Mount Sinai Cemetery was of Egypt is not a cartoon for kids, but a serious originally associated with Adas Yeshuran feature for sophisticated adults. As part of this OfFUTAiR FORCE BASE Synagogue on 25th and Seward Streets. Its origi- strategy, Katzenberg has vowed to fight a possible nal directors were the late Baruch Lindenbaum G rating and insist on a PG label. and Harry Staenberg, (father of Blanche Wise, To avoid being taken as a preachy religious Services conducted by Rabbi Ira Flax. long-time secretary and educator of Beth El tract, the Moses saga is being promoted in Office hours: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.Synagogue). When the congregation merged with advance as the ultimate action-adventure film, 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. other synagogues, prior to World War II, the pitting Moses against. Pharaoh Ramses II. cemetery was kept-separate. ' The lofty subject of the film will preclude marToday, Mount Sinai is not associated with any of keting a line of gimmicky merchandise tie-ins, '•:•«. B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Omaha's synagogues though it did seel half its which sometimes bring in more money than the ,818 Master-$K COWBICU Bluffs,low* 51503 property to Beth.Israel Synagogue in the early movie itself. 1970s;,The cemetery is located north of Omaha at ' , V ^ - " V - : , -. i-u- • 322-4705: - - ; - - , . . ' . 78th and Crowne Pointe. ' r f i ' PERSONALS The current board of directors include: David, Nancy, Rachel, Sara, Ben and Justin FRD3AY: Sonny Bleicher of Israel, grandson of President, Joe Guss; Vice-president and Jacobson and Bob and Dan Jacobson Dr. Jerome and Freda Bleicher, will lead the ser- Treasurer, Leon Wintroub; and board members Al of Newark, CA, want to thank our friends for vice at 7:30 p.m. Marcel Kahn will speak about Feldman; Jerry Gordman; Dan Greenfield, who the kind notes and generous contributions In his family's escape from Nazi Germany. serves as property manager; Joe Kirshenbaum; memory of our beloved mother and grandmothIn honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson, Morris Kutler, who handles sales of cemetery., er, Helen Jacobson Speler. Dr. Jerome and Freda Bleicher will sponsor the plots; and Paul Shyken. Oneg Shabbat. ' Plots, including family plots, are still available, To our caring family, friends, Rabbi Drazen, Sonny is the son of Dan and Line Bleicher of according to Wintroub. The only requirement vs. Cantors Berkovits and Fettman, our sincere Jerusalem and is a sabra (a native-born Israeli), that traditional Jewish burial practices must be thanks for your prayers, donations, cards and along with his brothers, Jonas, who is in the observed. For information about availability, call thoughts. Your continued support Is appreciated. Israeli Army, and David, who will enter the Israeli Kutler at 556-3016, or Wintroub at 496-1521. Rhoda and Bon Blatt Air Force this fall.
Producers target adults for animated Moses film
•"••'ii. n
Page 4
-M I'tittr??) :t'ffM I\MV'?£-
Wi
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
/ti\'tilth
July 24,1988
New Year's is late this year! No, actually its right on time the first and second of Tishrei, just like it is every year. But, on the secular calendar, Rosh Hashanah falls on Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 21 and 22, which means the New Year's edition of the Jewish Press will be in your home by Sept. 18. This year's theme, Nishei Chayil, will focus on the talents, achievements and successes of many Women of Distinction. To date, more than 70 names have been submitted. However, like the Passover 1997 issue which focused on synagogue volunteers, this newspaper does not have the time, resources, pages or writers to interview and publish stories about so many women. So, in advance, we ask your forgiveness as we seek to achieve a
\CBKTM)
Haarrsbf
modest goal. In addition to these stories of women, we will offer our traditional synagogue schedules for the High Holidays, messages from the pulpit rabbis, a listing of the marriages,- births and deaths of Omahans and former Omahans, and a listing of the officers and boards of directors of all the Jewish organizations. All synagogues and Jewish organizations have previously been contacted about their participation in this special issue. As with any other issue published by the Jewish Press, our staff and sales representatives are more than ready to assist both commercial and non-profit organizations. Feel free to call our office, 3346448, with your suggestions, your board list, your ad, your questions, your comments or your concerns. After all, it's your paper!
Conservative conversions go before court by Moshe Reinfeld
Supreme Court President Aharon Barak ordered that a petition about the religious status of several adopted children who were converted in Israel by the Conservative movement be transferred to an expanded panel of 11 justices. Presiding in the hearing will be Barak himself, Court Deputy President Shlomo Levine and -Justices Eliyahu Mazza, Theodor Or, Mishael Cheshin, Yitzchak Zamir, Dalia Dorner, Tova Strasberg-Cohen, Yaacov Turkel, Dorit Beinisch and Izhak Englard. The petition in question was first submitted three years, ago by. the Na'amat women's organization and the Israeli Conservative movement. The High Court of Justice has since given the attorney general seven extensions to reply to the petition, which asks that the Interior Ministry be ordered to register as Jews several babies adopted overseas and converted by the Conservative movement at Kibbutz Hanaton. The court hearings have been delayed several times following claims by the attorney general that efforts were being made to'reach a compromise solution outside court. These claims referred mainly to the Ne'eman committee, set up to try and find a solution to the overall problem of conversion by Judaism's three different branches, and to a committee headed by Rabbi Chaim Druckman, formed to focus on the problem of converting babies. The petition was originally submitted on behalf of two babies, who are now aged eight and nine. However, the president of the Conservative movement in Israel, Rabbi Ehud Bandel, responded that Druckman's efforts (to have the conversion pf one of the children accepted by the Orthodox rabbinate) have failed because the state refused to guarantee in advance that the child will be registered by the Ministry of Interior as a Jew immediately following the conversion. Last month, Na'amat charged that the Conservative movement was making unfair use of children to fight its battles in the High .Court of Justice. Bandel said in reaction that the families are at liberty to drop the petition, "but they think it is in their children's best interest to carry on with if. , Moshe Reinfeld, ia the Supreme Court Correspondent for Ha'Aretz newspaper in Israel.
by Harry Allen
Reality has a way of eventually intruding on even the loftiest of visions, to say nothing of those which may not be quite so lofty. The vision of a socialist kibbutz society in Israel has given way to the reality of urbanization and individualism. The fantasy of a "greater Israel", stretching from the Jordan to the Mediterranean, is grudgingly giving way to the harsh reality of an inevitable emergence of a Palestinian state. But perhaps the most intriguing vision, which is now beginning to Confront the imperatives of the larger world, is the haredi (fervently Orthodox) vision of a closed society immune to the pressures of the technical age. In the haredi, vision, life is best when men study for most of tfieir lives in pursuit of God's greater understanding, and women have large families, 10 to 12 or more children, to make certain that the haredi world grows. But it is a lifestyle on which the outside world is starting to intrude. A recent article in the Jerusalem Post neatly summarized the haredi dilemma. The realities of economic survival are forcing more and more haredim out of the kollelim (adult yeshivot, or schools) and into the work force. Approximately 72% of the haredim in Jerusalem do not work; the average income of a haredi family is less than half that of a non-haredi family. And; that income is mainly from government welfare grants. (Keep in mind, too, that the haredi family is two or three times as large as a non-haredi family, but a pair of shoes or a liter of milk cost the same for both.) In order to live, men are having to seek gainful employment in ever greater numbers. Haredi men are starting to leave full-time yeshiva study. As they learn trades, they discover they will have to mingle, work and sit alongside non-religious men and perhaps even women. To mitigate this new situation, the haredi world is creating new technical schools and some industries are trying to make some accommodations to avoid placing men and women together. The former will work, but, in the end, the latter will not. The haredim. face enormous problems in entering the world of work. Most have no training at all in basic subjects such as math or English or even modern spoken Hebrew. These were not needed in the yeshiva world where Yiddish remains the language of choice. So, with some help, a few programs have been
THE JEWISH PRESS 'j. (Founded h i 920) '. • r h e ro e e 'I £ "* ' ' °^ "* <^ew'sh Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting 7#V * Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. / » Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish ,* Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family *>••••"•'.' '-T'v v ^ Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a Constitutional .- .4jiS0t Committeeofthe Jewish Federation of Omaha. The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $26 per calendar year U.S.; $30 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline) for copy, ads and photos is Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68164; Telephone 402-334-6448; FAX 402-334-5422; E-mail <J8hprcss@aol.com> . •
Steve Uvlngor Chairman
(
Carol Katiman -Edltot-livCWal Morris Mallne Edilor Emeritus Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Larry A«elrod Advertising Manager Barbara Frankei Rocky Stern Sales representatives Sheryl Friedman Bookkeeper George Schaplro
VolunW
established to try and bridge .the enormous knowledge chasm between Mea Shearim and high tech industry. In America, one. only has to visit Wall Street or the 47th Street diamond'district to know that this can be achieved. In Israel, the bridge is barely in the drawing stage.
To the Editor: We just returned from Omaha, where we visited Lillie Becker who has lived at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home for many years. We were so pleased to see that the wonderful care of everyone there has not changed. • ' •' ' . No one ever need feel guilty if someone in the family needs to enter the Home. Nowhere else could they get better care. The kind, patient people who work there and the caring people who oversee that things are done properly deserve our thanks. Bill and Ida Ruth Poster, San Diego, CA To the Editor: On April 15-16,1946, at the first Pessah after the defeat of the Nazis and the liberation of the camps, about 200 survivors of the Shoah living in Munich gathered for a Seder at a restaurant possibly named the "Deutsches Theatre Restaurant." The Seder was conducted by U.S. Army Chaplain Rabbi Abraham J. Klausner. Participants at the Seder used a special Zionistoriented Supplement to the Haggada, in Yiddish and Hebrew, which was created by survivors Y.D. Sheinson (arranger and designer) and the Hungarian woodcut artist Adler Miklos, signed under the name "Ben Banjamin." The Supplement was published by the United Zionist Histadrut and Noar Hsalutzi Meuhad (Nocham) but then printed by the U.S. Army witJ. a large military emblem A on its cover. For a research project leading to a new publication of this Haggada Supplement, I am trying to reach anyone who attended this 1946 Seder in Munich, or knows about the making of the Supplement. If anyone has information, please contact me: 180 Beacon St., Boston, MA 02116; FAX: 617-262-7063; phone:617-262-7O62; e-mail: itaylor@mit.edu Professor Saul Touster Brandeis University JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Lloyd Roitatein, Vice Chairman; Fred Tichauer, Treasurer, Joanie Jacobson, Secretary; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Steve Danon; Linda Lachin; Sheryl Lee; George Schapiro; Howard Silber; Steve Simon. Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves tho right to edit letters and articles.for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product or establishment.
J u l y 24,1998 Jewish Press. Omaha, Ne Page 5
Will Jewish candidates be targeted as Jews?
-NiMji
Clam Than...
ih Servm
by Matthew Dorf
mSprvue te Service
Washington (JTA) "We I think it's important for analysts believe, a re-emergence of anti-Jewish people to, know that Jill Docking is Jewish. Please campaign tactics that have not been seen in 20 years. And the controversy shows no sign of wanvote for Sam Brownback." That is the phone call a handful of Kansas voters ing. Brownback is up for re-election again this fall said they received before Brownback won his 1996 because in 1996 he won only a two-year term to race for the Senate. In a world of no-holds-barred campaigns, many serve out Bob Dole's tenure after Dole resigned political activists fear that anti-Jewish outreach, from the Senate to challenge President Clinton for although so far rare, could be a harbinger of cam- the presidency. Brownback's expected opponent, Paul Feleciano, paigns to come. In the 1998 congressional elections, Republican who is not Jewish, has revived the Docking incicandidates seeking to retain their party's slim dent to charge that the senator or his campaign majority in the House of Representatives. A gain of used an anti-Semitic tactic. Despite no evidence linking Brownback to the 11 seats would put a Democrat in the speaker's incident, the National Jewish Democratic Council chair. With 34 Senate seats up for election, Democrats believes it is fair to use the incident against him. admit they have virtually no chance of regaining NJDC last month published a report on the incicontrol. Instead, they talk of, fighting to prevent dent that stopped short of tying Brownback to the the GOP from winning a filibuster-proof 60-seat calls. margin or of picking up a few seats, to position To the National Jewish Coation, a Republican themselves for a 2000 run at the majority. group, that strategy is "the worst kind of gutter Many high-profile Jewish candidates—including politics," said Matt Brooks, NJC executive director. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Rep Jon Fox (R- Most concerned observers agree that future PA.)—are in rapes in which Jewish issues such as Jewish candidates are likely to face similar tactics the standoff with Swiss banks over the Holocaust unless those responsible are exposed and publicly condemned. But if history is any lesson, even expoassets are playing a role. Republicans, who historically have struggled to sure doesn't guarantee that the methods will stop. Most campaigns involving Jewish candidates attract Jewish support, have launched an unprecedented drive to help their party's candidates reach never touch directly on a candidate's Jewishness. Instead, there are veiled attacks on a candidate's out to Jewish voters. position or foreign aid and Israel, hinting at What's in bounds? In all tight races, minority communities take on charges of dual loyalty. But difficulty arises when increased significance; and an attack on a candi- religion intersects with policy. "If one is identified with a particular religious date's race or religion can swing voters. This has raised the question of what is in and out viewpoint, it may be appropriate at some point" to I of bounds when candidates or their supporters raise questions, Hordes said. For example, with the U.S. Southern Baptist reach out to Jewish and non-Jewish voters. "People should be elected because of the positions movement publicly proclaiming that it wants to they take," said Jess Hordes, the Washington rep- convert Jews, Jewish audiences legitimately could resentative of the Anti-Defamation League. "I do question candidates belonging to that denominanot think a candidate's Jewishness ought to come tion to measure their support for the effort. Others disagree, believing that religion should be into play." As campaigns seem to turn nastier and more per- left out of the debate unless the candidate raises < • ^ i • ••• ( • ' .• - ' i l i i :••' ••.•.-"'. ••••• sonal with each election cycle, activists of all politi- t h e i s s u e . > "A politician does have a public and a private life. cal stripes say that the Kansas race exemplifies Religion is part of the private life/ said Frank out-of-bounds election schemes. No evidence ties the senator or his campaign to Luntz, a prominent Republican political consul' the calls. Brownback and his staff called local tant. - But that does not mean that I issues that touch Jewish institutions at the time to condemn the on religious belief are out of bounds for debate, ' effort to besmirch his Jewish opponent. Whoever made the calls, they reflect, political Luntz added.
^LOCKSMITHS
• . _
•
3706 S. 132nd Street. Phone (402) 330-5050 Fax (402) 330-078?:
-
HIOTIH6 • 10HIH0 • BKHtt HlttlOM
DEADLINES HAVE NO MERCY Remember 2 things: ^
g
f
Pur Bulletin Board Service is open 24 hours/ 7 days a wtek
Free BBS Software! - B B S : 330-3900
ASKFOR...
TONI ROSEN MULTI MILLION DOLLAR CAREER SALES
For Experienced Professional Service in The Sale Of Your Home Res,:33f7257 Bus: 336-'35OO
REAL ESTATE CO.
High Quality Reconditioned Fitness Equipment • Treadmills • Stairmasfjers ',.,/ • Lifecycles ,;„'..-•.;:..,yAWe Sell The Good Stuff at a Great Price!' Warranty
Included!
i!;
'<>•'-'
'":
Call 660-7811 for more informatioji
• We Appreciate Your Patronage .
,
"•'Every Party or Event Is Equally Important to AAA Rents (from 5 t o 500)
'
, ''
• We Specialize In Party Planning and Arrangements, Trade Shows, Exhibitions and Special Events. . . . Let Us A d d T h a t S p e c i a l Flair and Touch t o Your Entertaining
JACKIE LAW Bus.
JTA News Digest U.S. Holocaust survivors could begin receiving payments from a Swiss fund later this summer, according to the World Jewish Congress. The WJC said that beginning Aug. 17, applications will be available to all needy U.S. survivors to receive a portion of the $32 million set aside for them from the $170 Swiss Holocaust Memorial Fund created last year. With an estimated 120,000 survivors in the United States, payments could be as low as $500 if only half of the survivor population applied, according to a WJC official. • Israel's hawkish infrastructure minister threatened to topple the government if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to a U.S. proposal under which Israel would redeploy from an additional 13% of the West Bank. Ariel Sharon issued the threat while on a visit to China. Agriculture Minister Rafael Eitan, leader of the far-right Tsomet Party, threatened to bolt the government if Netanyahu handed over more than 7% of the West Bank. Vice President Al Gore discussed ways to stop Russian missile trade with Iran during a meeting with Natan Sharansky, Israel's minister of trade and tourism. Sharansky briefed Gore about last week's meetings in Israel with the head of Russia's security service, Nikolai Kovalev. Gore is scheduled to visit Russia and other former Soviet republics later this week. •
Germany honored a group of army officera on the 54th anniversary of their unsuccessful attempt to kill Hitler. Rita Sussmuth, the president of the lower house of the German Parliament, said at a Berlin military ceremony that the assassination attempt was a reminder of the opposition to the Nazi regime that existed within Germany. Chancellor Helmut Kohl issued a statement saying the anniversary should remind Germans of the need to protect their democracy from any challenge by political extremists. California state Sen. Tom Hayden warned that European insurance companies are applying pressure to water down his bill on Holocaustrelated claims. The bill requires the California insurance department to Buspend t h e business license of a company until t h e claims of Holocaust survivors or their heirs are satisfied. The Israeli firm Gilat signed a $6-2 million deal to provide t h e former Soviet republic of Kazakhstan with satellite, telecommunications.
Complete Room Design With Existing Furnishings
PRESIDENT Lincoln ' (402) 467-4151 Bus.
Omaha (402) 339-3707
5620S.72ndStreet» Omaha.NE68127-3974"' 2700 North 27th Stteet* Lincoln. NE6852\
Marty & Alan Cohen C Q S
677-2524 • 690-1591
HEALESTAT^CO.
. .
AM 3 h o m e s i n D I S T R I C T ' S
9465 Dewey Circle 3+ beds, hearth kitchen, master w/whlrtpool
...... ....$349,950
2324 So. 102nd St. JOHN OFFUTT original. The definition of contempbi'afy.-
Peggy Siert.-ASM....
the art of arrangement Hourly Consultation 6 One-Day Magical Mnkoovcra 402 • 391 • 0G97
2214 So. 66th AVO 4 bedrooms, 3 balhss, 3700 eo,. tt
.$254,950
Page 6
Jewish Press, Oniaha, NE
July 24,1998
•.JSIJ.I'I
To Bubbe and Zayde with LOVE... Chairing this special day are Ann Belmont and her daughter, Marlene Sukiennik, an appropriate team in view of the generational theme. They have organized an impressive list of activities, varied enough to interest everyone. The JCC will take on the look of an indoor fair, with interaction a large part of every exhibit. Participation and involvement are key elements of such activities as an inter-generational exercise class with Rini Gonsher, and music, cookie decorating and the introduction of a new game with Hyman Sukiennik in the Alex Trebeck role. Another special treat, at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., will be the opportunity for children to hear Mark Levy explain all about puppets and to even help create one. In another area, Eunie Denenberg will do
(Continued from page 1) story presentations; for those who love music, Jill Belmont and Patty Nogg will do a Crazy Song Session. Corey Kirshenbaum will call on his old skills as a camp counselor and lead participants in a session of fun, games and general tumult! Carole Greenberg will be on hand to lead an Art Project, with designing and decorating mats for photos. Adding a really special touch will be a photograper to take commemorative pictures of families. Of course, there will be refreshments available, according to Pood Chairman Ellene Edelstein, and Special Projects Co-chairmen Ilene Klein and Vicki Sanford (another Mother-Daughter team) wouldn't want anyone to overlook the Antique Car Exhibit in the parking lot.
All of these activities are scheduled from 1-2 pjn. At 1:30 and 3 p.m., there will be the performance of an original musical program in the auditorium, "The Magic of Mishpocha," written by Joanie Jacobson; Production Assistant is Beth Friedman. Following the show, the activities will again be available from approximately 3-4 p.m. Th2 devoted volunteers who work tirelessly for LOVE hope everyone will circle Sunday, Aug. 30, on the calendar. They invite you to bring your mishpocha to the J and mingle. . .to be a part of what promises to be a really special day. Watch for further announcements and news (and even a couple of surprises) about "To Bubbe and Zayde with LOVE, ."a fun-filled family affair."
Wanted: pictures of grandparents and grandchildren
From left: David Brantz, Brian Nogg, Annie Nogg, Molly Brantz, Grandma "YiYi" Betty Studna and Jeff Nogg.
In conjunction with the upcoming event, "To Bubbe and Zayde with LOVE.. ." a fun-filled family affair, LOVE (League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly), the auxiliary for the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, has announced plans for a photographic exhibit. "Memory Makers" will open in the JCC Gallery on Aug. 10. The community is asked to submit family photographs celebrating the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren. Pictures may be any size, color or black and white, and preferably should be a photocopy of good quality. The pictures will be mounted in a collage format, thanks to the generosity of Fast Frame, and cannot be returned. Chairpersons are Lisa Epstein, Robyn Belgrade, Shelly Fox and Molline Cassman. Pictures or photocopies, with names of those pictured, may be sent to Lisa Epstein at 1336 N. 129th Ave. Circle, 68154, or left at the front desk of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, attention: Lois Wine. Call Patty Nogg at 493-3479 with any questions.
From left: David Sukiennik, great-greatnephew; Nini Rosenstock, great-niece; Carly Rosenstock, great-great-niece; Marlene Sukiennik, great-niece; and Ann Belmont, niece, help celebrate the 104th birthday of their aunt Esther Belmont at a party at the Rose Blumkin Home.
Building a Jewish Community for the 21 st Century (The following people have made commitments to the Campus] Founders. $25(I.O(H) and nhove Phil A Terri Schragcr Myer A Dorothy Kripke Mill A PaulineAbrahams Tom A Darlynn Fellman ' Howard & Sharon Koopcr The Newman Family Jule M. Newman Memorial Fund Dob A Phyllis Newman Murray A Sharec Newman The Simon Family Alan A Anne Sinion Bruce A Slacy Simon Fred A Eve Sinion Sieve A Kalliryn Sinion - Totld Simon
Pinnccrs.fcontinueih ... Leonard A Shirley Goldstein'^ Nancy A Don Greenberg Howard A Carol Hahn Steve A Slieri Idelman Howard A Gloria Kaslow Steve A Pally Nogg In Memory of Burton L Robinson ' Sam A Frances Fried . Andrew A Kimberly Robinson Mark A Paula Robinson Gene A Nancy Rech HarleyABelhSchrager .The Slusky Family Jodi Slusky
YoavGcrshoni Jay Slusky Jerry Slusky Irving A Gail Veitzer and Norman A Joodi Veitzer Speedy A Mermen? Zweiback Anonymous (3)
H»ih)m.S10n.n(H>.«249.')<)'> The Baker Family Louie A Fran Dlunikin Harold A Merriam Cooperman Rich A Frances Juro. • Kevin A Kimara Clark, Kevin Juro Keri Juro PennieZ. Davis . : Friedland Family Foundation Frohm Foundation Joe A Maxine Kirshenbaum and I larlan A Nancy Noddle The Riekes Family Henry A Dorothy Riekes Steve A Margo Riekes Carl A Zoe Riekes Harry A Jcanelte Weinberg Foundation Anonymous (1) Pionrm. S5n.(H)0 - S99.9IW Harvey & Phyllis Aronson Henry A Mary Kay Davis Joe A Ruth Erman Tlie Mike Erman Family In Memory of Eileen Erman Mike Erman . Michael & Lori Miller Jonathan & Stacey Rockman Ike A Roz Friedman Foundation . Marvin ASusanCohn Alan Friedman Donald Yale The Goldstein Family Donald & Ann Goldstein Becca Goldstein Deborah Goldstein
:
Gmundnrraker*. « 5 . 0 0 n • U<>.<*)<> Alan A Marcia Baer Foundation Helen Brodkey Jack A Marcia Cohen The Glazer Family Richard A Phyllis Glazer Jim A Jordana Glazer John A Jennifer Glazer Art A Ruth Goldstein The Gordman Family Nelson A Linda Gordman J.D. Gordman Julie A Max Goldman Kip A Bridget Gordman - The Lehr Family Marly A Joanie Lehr Bruce A Cindy Goldberg Susan Lehr John A Sandy Lehr Leonard A Bert Lewis David A Sue Meyers Sherman A Jeanic Neff and Herman Goldstein Jay & Kim Noddle Sydney & Regina Osten Alan A Carol Parsow N. Pillor ASons, Inc., In Memory of Norman Pitbr The Plan Family Max A Dorolhy Platl , Mike A Barb Plait Jeff A Ellen Plait
Groundhreakcrs. (continued) The Schrier, Family Stan & Felicia Schrier Jeff& Tracy Schrier Bennett & Julie Ginsberg Jill Schrier Donhy Schrier Bruce and Anne Shackman In Memory of Hymen "Tneel" Belman Margarette Belman Yudelson Murray J. A Laura Belman Patli Belman Lynn Anonymous (2) • Leaders 310.000 . $24.999 Irv A Susie Blumkin Ron A Chris Blumkin The Epstein Family Harold A Ella Epstein Paul A Sandy Epstein Gary & Lisa Epstein Aaron Ferer & Sons Mort & Jan Glass The Goldstein Family David A Judi Goldstein Joe A Jill Goldstein Rick Goldstein Jeff & Danielle Gordman Rosie Gross . Jerry A Cookie Hoberman The Joseplispn Family Larry A Debbi Josephson Keith A Judy Josephson and June Goodbimler Kevee A Myrna Kirshenbaum The.Kraniz Family In Memory of Rose Krantz David Kranlz Howard A Barbara Krantz Stewart A Susie Smoler Bob A Connie Kully Marshall & Barbara Kushncr The Bcnlon Kutler Family Ben A Harriet Kutler Laura A David Chait Robert A Terri Ellen Kutlcr David A Debi Kullcr Howard A Nancy Kullcr Bruce Kutler Sol A LeeJanc Parsow Yale A Ida Richards . Larry & Silvia Roffman Elaine & Judith Roffman Jerry Rosen Milt & Rosaline Saylan
:•
Please join us in this incredible opportunity! (All contributions are payable over 3 years. Minimum donation for a dedication is $1,000.)
Leaden S10.0QO-S24.999 Mark & Vicki Sanford Joel A Nancy Schlessinger and Bernard A June Schlessinger Les A Jan Schneiderman Stuart & Esther Simon Jerry A Judy Simons Howard A Judy Vann and Family The Milton G. Waldbaum Family Foundation Mimi Waldbaum John A Natha Waldbaum Arnie & Anne Weilz Tim Zweiback Anonymous (6) Innovators, unto$9.999 Art & Charlotte Adler William A Rose Abrahams Edith Abranu . Alvin & Doris Abramson Mike A Sherry Abramson ' v Leon A. Eleanor Alexander Margie Alperson Bernie & Shirley Altsuler Harry & Ruth Allsuler Jeffrey A Susan Aizenberg Aryeh & Elyce Azriel Bruce & Jill Baron Donald & Diane Baum Dennis & Jeanne Beavers John A Angie Bekiiu Jay Benton Gerald ALois Bernsticn Harold and Millie Bernstein Harry Berman A Beth Cohen Albert & Juni Bloch Robert Lachowiez A Margaret Block Menasse Bohbol Melvin A Gencvieve Bornstein Jack A Florence Brody Harold & Lucille Brodkey Peter A Carol Brodkey Ron A Beth Brodkey Sherman A Sandy Brodkey The Brown Family Jonathan A Debbi Brown Leigh-Anne Brown . :. Lauren Brown Sam A Elaine Bukengolts EstherCanar Richard <fc Sandra Canfield Truman & Rosemary Clare. Paul A Arlene Cohen and Family David Cooper . Jerold A JaneyDann David Davis
.
July 24,1998
•hu
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Building a Jewish Community for the 21st Century The Campaign to raise funds for the rejuvenation of the Jewish Community Center is drawing to a close with its last push this month. Project co-chairmen Patty and Steve Nogg and Marcia and Steve Pitlor have worked tirelessly to bring the message of upgrading the JCC to meet the heeds of the community for the next century to the entire community. "We are so close to having a community vision realized," said Steve and Patty Nogg. "But we've lived in Omaha long enough to know that we can accomplish anything we set our minds to!" they added. Steve and Marcia Pitlor agreed, saying, "If anyone has not made a contribution, now is the time to do it.
We believe that this is the chance of a lifetime to leave a real legacy for the commuity!" More than 300 individuals, families and businesses have donated to the Building Project so far. Campus improvements include a new Child Development Center, a new worldclass Fitness Center, and a new Library. Virtually every Center of Excellence and program housed on the Federation Campus will benefit from the rejuvenation project. Contributions to the Building Fund are being accepted by calling the Noggs at 493-3479, the Pitlors at 4964632, Tom Fellman and Howard Kooper at 392-1800, or the Federation Office at 334-8200.
Staff and campers of JCC Camp Chaverim admire their work.
[Building a Jewish Community for the 21st Century
Gloriann Levy, Julie Phillips and Cinda Tully hang the Israel 50 quilt made from squares designed at the [May 3 celebration.
$1.3 Million still needed!
We're Helping to Build the Community! Building Fund and have allowed their names to be published.) I
Innovators, (continued.) Manuel A Karen Delgadillo Paul A Susie Drazen ' Bob A Lois Endelman : Randy A Penny Endclman Todd A lisa Ephriam Edith Epstein • • , _ Sam A Rosalie Epstein "Abe A Liberty Faier Al A Ellie Feldman MaryFellman Pierre Flalowicz Irving A Sonia Forbes . ' .' •• Al A Esther Friedman Gloria Friedman Harry A Merriam Friedman James Friedman :, Lloyd A Lois Friedman . . " " • • ' Willard A Triama Friedman David A Wendy Goldberg • The Goodman Family Harold Goodman • In Memory of Samuel &Delmu Goodman Bob A Barbara Goodman Fred A Barb Uehling . Steve Goodman Rob, Debbie A Isabel Goodman Robert A Kay Gcrelick •. . John A Marcia Gilmore *. . Barbara Golllieb Saul A Esther Graetz '. Barton (Bucky) A Caryl Greenberg Arthur A Deborah Greene George A KathrynGrieb Yale A Ida Halperin • ." .. i.-. Bobbi Halslein • David A Belte Harkin . •', '• . Joel A Esther Hellman Larry A Relha Herman ; '••' AdeleHornslein . ! Louis A Lillian Hurwitz ! Jon Lance A Dacia labenis ' • ,.• Richard A Joanie Jacobson Harvey Josin Ed A Anne Joseph . TobyKagan •••••••' Marcel A Use Kahn : Robert'A Roxanne Kahh .'•''..:• Jerome A Sylvia Kaiman .•'.'..•• PaulKaiman ' . Lazar A Bernice Kaplan •'• RobertKaplan , }•• Frankie A Sandy Kasin .'•;••..'••.•. Mendel A Shani Katzman : Maury A Madeline Katzman . Leonard AtUndy Kaufman
Innovators, (continued^ Corey Kirshenbaum A Marcy Noodell Jeff A Sharon Kirshenbaum Don A Ilene Klein Harry A Janet Klein Milton A Marsha Kleinberg. • Marvin A Sandra Kohll Jack A Belle Kozlen Cris A Peggy Krasne, Lloyd A Edythe Krasne David A Vicki Krecek Doris Kwiatek . ' Ben A Grace Lebowich Mike A Bobbi Leibowitz Michael A Cheryl Levine . Michael A Karin Levine Steve A Bonnie Levinger Vera Lewis Morris A Helen Lipp Rubin A Louise Lippett • Harvey A Marcia Lipsman Bernard A Carolyn Magid Trenton Magid Larry A Diane Malashock . Myron A Harriet Marko Mark A Julie Martin Thomas & Margo Median Gerald Meyer Bernie A Roie Meyers. ' . . Joseph A Tina Meyers . , Scott A Jenny Meyerson Jerry A Fran Milder , Mike A Ducky Milder Michael A Lori Miller Slan AEvieMitchell Henry A Pam Monsky " Allan,A Janie Murow . Sluart A Betlie Muskin AllanNoddle . Leo A Babe Nogg . , Ruth N o g g . . •'••..'• . : Linda Novak Robert A Donna Olesh ' •- : ". Michael A Barbara O'Malley > : Claire Passer ' ; Scott A Krisli Pavel WayneASarilaPenka Harold A Rose Perelman ' Jason, Rebecca A Zachary Perelman Willard A Shirley Pestal ' , Eric A Julie Phillips :;• • ' Marv A Sheila Polikov :, Larry A Dinah Raful
Neal A Nancy Rauhauser LouABevRich ManyAIrisRickj
.
. .
•
:
. : ,
i
; i
;
:
:
'
;
. '
:
Innovators, (continued) GaryACarynRifkin The Doug Riley Family Foundation Andrew A Kimberly Robinson Jonathan A Stacey Rockman Charney A Jerry Rosinsky Lee A Peggy Ross Sieve A Bunny Rollienberg Elliot A Belly Rubin Michael A Lynn Salmi Errol A Lynne Sallzman Belly Sanford Andrew A Wendy Schcrer Ed A Carol Schneider Harry A Sophie Schuhnan Maurice A Phyllis Schwartz NorhiASuzy Sheldon Marc A Oaudia Sherman Rose Sherman Rodney A Lois Shkolnick Jeff A Mary Silver David A Ann Sjalin Morton A Helen Soiref Ramon A Susan Somberg CariSonimer Joe A Miriam Soshnik Sherman A Harriett Sperling Dorothy Spizman Moe A Muriel Steinberg Belly Slernhill • Arnold A Carolyn Slern Ilarlan Sluilna Charlie A Louri Sullivan /Jeffrey A Nancy Tctcnbiium IsailoreASclmatretiak Shirley Traclitenbarg Henry A Fan Tsuei Tom Vann Sylvia Wagner John A Nalha Waldbaum Ernie A Janet Winlroub Gordon A Joy Watanabe Earl A U e Wigodsky Raymond A Sandi Weinberg ArtARuthWeiner Henry A Roberta Weiner Earl A Lee Wigodsky Chris A A'tyson Wilczewski Phil A Nancy Wolf BobASibbyWolfson William A Ann Wolfson Irvin A Annette Yaffe Harold A Phyllis Zabin Jamie Zacharia Richard A Terri Zacharia Steve A kalhjeen Zdkin
In^mviitorsr (conliniiLMl) I 7-v k T Id A I 1 7 n i H AN ' 7 h '° Seymour A Hit/. iCoob
,
~
Tb make a contribution, contact the Project Co-chairmen: Patty & Steve Nogg, 493-3479 and Marcia & Steve Pitlor, 496-4632 or call Tom Fellman or Howard Kooper, 392-1800.
Page 7
Page 8
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
•"£*-*
July 24,1998
Comedian Alan King picks a peck of kosher pickles
by Bert Lewis
Do you ever wonder how certain phrases or expressions came into our speech? While reading an article recently, the phrase "be that as it may" was used, causing me to wonder about it. It sounds so stiff and unnatural that I couldn't help but think the author might have found another way to express himself. Then, other such almost archaic word arrangements came to mind, such as "by the same token." Now there's an old-fashioned sounding term, wouldn't you say? It, too, tends to sound a little stiff, as though the speaker was trying too hard. Still, it's an expression used frequently, by many people. Sometimes it's a single word that grabs my attention-one of those words is "notwithstanding." I use it myself, but every time I do, I feel like I'm doing something a little goofy. I mean, saying "Chiam's opinion notwithstanding" could more easily be said "no matter what Chiam thinks," couldn't it? Of course. But it's a perfectly good word, right? Actually, for somebody just learning English, it • could be disastrous! * English can be a difficult language and we probatbly make it worse when we change the way we use <words. A perfect example, and one of my pet : peeves, is the word "impact" and the subtle way it lhas been altered. We always said something had i"an impact" on something else. . .Now, we hear ithat something "impacted" on such and such. "Doesn't that grate on your ears too? . To get back to the old ones, where did the term '"helter-skelter" come from? Does it take any longer 'to say "hurried and confused?" ' Some of those oldies are easy to figure out. . .1 mean, easy as "falling off a log" for example. There •may have been a time when lots of folks fell off logs, so I suppose that was reason enough to create such an obvious expression. i But how do we explain the word "foursquare" •when it's used to, describe somebody forthright or completely honest? Beats me. Or the term "sobersides" when referring to somebody who is serious? In addition, I'm certain not even the most loyal . Litvak could explain the phrase "redherring," meaning a false lead. Well, this list could go on forever, but I have neither the time nor space for more. Which is why this , is a good place to stop. In other words, dayenii.
by Debra L Wallace
ural for me," King, 70, said recently in a telephone interview from his Manhattan office. "I'm very pleased with what's going on," he said. "I have been autographing bottles of pickles by the » ' i thousands and having the time of my life doing it." In fact, King has such a following from 50 years in show business that people are literally lining up to try his pickles. Erwin Hartman, a partner in Miramar Pickles with George Bell - a former Hebrew National executive - was at King's side during the mid-June launch of Alan King's Perfect Pickles in Manhattan. Future pickle events in key markets are expected in the fall, after King finishes his stand-up dates around the country. By then, the entire line of Alan King kosher products is expected to be available. King said that what attracted him to this venture is the fact that the products are kosher. "Jewish audiences have been supporting me for more than 50 years, so I thought this was a great photo by Joe Marshall, SFNN combination, he said. "After all, I was raised in a It's no joke. Several months ago, Alan King, the kosher home and my mother used to bottle her own legendary Borscht Belt comic, was eating a corned pickles." beef sandwich at a Boca Raton, Fla., deli when he King's other partners in the new business are became smitten with the pickles on the table. Maurice Levy of New York and Rob Pirozzi of Soon after, the owners of the 30-year-old Flakowitz Bagel Inn in Boca Raton, where the Miramar Pickles Company in Fort Lauderdale, fated meeting between King and the pickle-makers who happened to be having lunch at the same deli, took place. Pirozzi—whose father used to own a were at his table discussing a new business ven- kosher bakery in Great Neck, N.Y., where King's wife shopped—said his customers are wild about ture. After extensive recipe testing, Alan King's the new pickles. Perfect Pickle is currently available in kosher "People absolutely love them," Pirozzi said. "They stores and supermarkets in New York and Florida. also didn't know that Alan is knowledgeable about Plans are in the works to sell the pickles nation- the food business. But then again no one knows he wide. co-authored a book several years ago called 'Is 1 Packed in jars that resemble pickle barrels, the Salami and Eggs Better Than Sex?" For his part, King believes his pickles "are better pickles come in six varieties. The labels are adorned with a recent photo of King and words than Viagra. When you eat one of my pickles, that his Jewish mother, Minnie, used to tell him: everything puckers up." Debra L. Wallace is a staff- writer for the "Eat! You'll.feel better." "I happen to be a pickle maven, so this was a nat- Jewish Journal in South Florida. ROYAL PALM BEACH, PL, (JTA) - Did you hear the one about the comedian who went to a deli and ended up becoming a partner in a Florida kosher food venture?
1
I:...'-.?'-?';
• Enjoy the pleasures and rewards of operating your own business • Represent an exclusive New York .designer collection • Flexible hours • Lucrative compensation • Sell via home trunk showings
All thefr shots while they're tots >•/.
1-800-662-1689 Nebraska Health and Human Services System
••. \- -'• •-'.;•
_•!»••.•!. :• :" V :'.
Today s <j iris, Tomorrow's Leaders-. Spaifirtg Acpiye in Maph^Science Thursday, October 8,1998,6 to 9:45 prn Westslde Community Education Center This workshop for parents, educators and others will show how girls can reach their potential In the classroom and in their careers in the areas of math and science. For a brochure or registration information, contact event coordinator Kathy Tollefsrud, Education Director, Planned Parenthood of Omaha-Council Bluffs, at (402) 554-1045, 4610 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68132.
SXPmT PtoW&E PMMIMG
m
:• operation O « " mentioned m CITIZENS S44.05I/)
2nd Opinion
Carol A. Llndhiem OWNER Wostridni Shopping Contor- 132nd & W. Dodgo Rd. 4 9 3 - 3 8 9 3
CUSTOM FRAMING -- ART GALLERIES Framing Specialists and more... .: Original Works Lithographs Limited Editions Etchings Poster Art
REPRESENTING: •Greenwich Workshop •Mill Pond Press •Hadley Companies •P. Buckley Moss & many others
With hundreds of banks in 16 states, there's always a Norwest Bank nearby. 8435 Frederick St. Fradsrksk Plaza
To The N"> Degree' 536-2420 CIBS8 Norvmt Bank Nebraska, N A • Member FDIC
2770 S. 129 Ava. Montclalr Shopping Ctr.
111 W. Mission Bellevuo
July 24,1898
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
Deb and Dan Marburg of Omaha announce the July 7 birth of their son, Solomon Arthur. Solomon is named for his paternal great-grandmother, Sidonie Marburg, and maternal great-grandfather, Arthur Schreiber. Grandparents are Judy and Jerry Marburg of Omaha, Sue Schreiber of Lincoln and Ira and Corrine Schreiber of Denver.
Gary Shyken, son of Paul and Susie Shykcn, recently graduated from Indiana University in BloOmington with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Jewish Studies and Political Science. He served as President of the Jewish Studies Student Association during his senior year. He also coordinated the Indiana University StuY.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. English dent Association election for over 30,000 students.' In addition, Gary was selected the Jewish as a second language class for new Americans will start at 10 a.m., exercise and bingo at 10:30. The Campus Service Corps Fellow for universities in "YES Talk" discussion group will start at 11 a.m. in the Cleveland area, where he will do Jewish the adult lounge. Bring articles to share. Following Outreach work on the college campus. After serva hot kosher lunch at noon, Cantor Berkovits will ing in this year-long position, he plans to attend graduate school in the area of Higher Education perform. Menu change: Baked Chicken. and Student Affairs. WALK-IN, DROP-IN Rachel Jacobson, daughter of Nancy and ; There will be no program Thursday due to the trip to WinnaVegas Casino. For those going on the David Jacobson, made the Dean's list at the University of Illinois, Champaign Urbana, where trip, please meet at the JCC by 8:15 a.m. she is a junior. ,. VISIONS Following an all-day Medical Symposium on A day trip to Lincoln is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 13. Depart from the JCC at 9:30 a.m. and July 31, presented by; BIA (Brain Injury return approximately by 4 p.m. Tour the State Association of Nebraska, Inc.), a "Good-Sports Capitol, Governor's Mansion and Sunken Gardens. Party" will be held at 8 pjn. in the Omaha Room Lunch will be on your own at the White Rose at the at the Nebraska Center for.Continuing Education, 33rd & Holdrege St., Lincoln, NE. This casual Capitol. Cost is $8 per person. For reservations, mail form with full payment by sporting event will feature a buffet, entertaining Aug. 5 to Sam & Rosaline Epstein, 9205 Western emcee, dancing and a benefit auction With rare Ave., #325, Omaha, NE 68114. Make check payable sports memorabilia, fine- art works and many mystery items. .":..'.':•':: •'••...''•'•.•. . to Jewish Senior Services. , ' •' Tickets are $50 and will benefit the Brain Injury Association of Nebraska, Inc. flABASSAH For more information, contact the office at 308Joe Cherek on the clavicord will entertain Blumkin Home residents Saturday at the Omaha 537-7875f fax 308-537-7663; or Susan Cerny, Chapter of Hadassah monthly Oneg Shabbat. The Chairman, at 402-721r2430 (work), or 402-6662 p.m. program will be followed by a tea in the 5252 (home). Home's main dining room.. " Hadassah members and. guests who wish to by Art Grossman assist residents are asked to come at 1:30 p.m.
YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS
YES recently spent the day touring the new SAC Museum near Ashland. A picnic lunch and tour of Mahoney State Park followed. From left: Betty Kelberg, Babe McKinney, font Kutcher, Ann Margolin, Lola Reinglass, Bonnie Nicholsen, Rachel Rosenberg and Leo and Myro Sivin.
Lisa Senal, who sang for three seasons with Opera Omaha and performed in many musicals' throughout the country, performed recently to over 85 members at the YES Club. She was accompanied by Esther Wax.
July must be acknowledged as Happy Birthday Month. Thirty-Four Oldtimers and Young Energetic Seniors observed birthdays and were serenaded at the July 13 meeting. Speaking of birthdays, as ah extension of the previous week's Red, White & Blue Independence Day celebration, a couple of additional observations of that day, 222 years ago, with Jewish links were disclosed: The Liberty Bell in Independence Hall, Philadelphia, has an inscription from torahLeviticus XXV, 10 "Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." Also, an immortal verse by Jewess poetess Emma Lazarus is graven on a tablet on which the Statue of Liberty stands. In part it reads: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.. .* And our forebears heard the clarion call and came to the "Goldeneh Medina" and that is why we live in freedom in this benevolent country. At the Early Bird discussion, Toni Kutcher related concerning a meeting of the United Way of the Midlands, chaired by Bill Randby and Julee Cornel. He is a KETV 7 weatherman and she a news anchor at the TV station. One of the engaging topics based on the book Successful Aging, noted a number of myths and facts about elderly folks. One of the naive myths is that elderly don't pull their own weight. Fact: Millions of seniors are ready, willing and able to increase their productivity, both paid and voluntary, given a chance. , Shalom. . .'..'
55813030
Residential Mortgage Services, Inc. YOUR LOW COST-FULL SERVICE MORTGAGE LENDER • 1 Day NO COST Pre-Appfoval! • NEW CONSTRUCTION - Long Temi Rate Locks With REPRICING AVAILABLE If Rates Go Down! • NO-COST TRU-LOCK COMMITMENT © Allowing You To Lock A Rate While You Are Shopping For A Home • . • .
.
• 100% LTV Equity Lines of Credit, Second Mortgages • Low Cost Fixed Rate, Adjustable Rate and : Balloon Mortgages! . WEIL MAKE YOUR
LOAN'POINTLESS"
Gheck fates 24 hours a dayat ^ vrtvw.re3identiaEmortgages.com Osber Offices: Sdlcnie 292-7900 Lincoln 423-8885 Contsdl Bluffs 322-7900
NEED A GOOD JOB? not get a one? Q L I , Omaha's premiere rehabilitation facility is expanding. Beautiful new facilities and a positive and exciting work environment.
Now Hiring: * Accounting Clerk -^Certified Nursing Assistants ^Custodial Staff
^Licensed Practical Nurses ^Maintenance Staff ^Occupational • . Therapist
ADietary Aides/Cooks
•ftrPhysical Therapist
AFood Services
^-Registered Nurses ^Secretaries
ftHuman Resources Clerk
^Social Worker
Benefits Include: •k Outstanding Health Insurance >,
APaid Vacation
, ^Flexible Schedules 4-LJfe Insurance/Pension Plan -, ttTuition Assistance -
American Heart i Association-^
QUALITY LIVING, INC. Exercise.
Recreating Rehab: A Tri-Dimensional Approach EOE
Page 10
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
July 24,1998 by Oliver B.Pollak
Explaining Hitler, The Search of the Origins of His Evil by Ron Rosenbaum
Jfenna (ilafe Old World Charm With Authentic European Food y4829S.24thSt« 733-74911 United Way of the Midlands A Celebration of Community
North American Fare Available We also offer a menu with heart-healthy choices 380 North 114th Street 7555 Pacific Street
330-5707 399-8006
An Evening of Enchantment
V. MERTZ Restaurant' Bistro • Wine Bar Enjoy Our Delightful Intimate Lunches Reservations
345-8980
Recommended OLO MARKET PASSAGEWAY
Ron Rosenbaum is a widely published investigative reporter whose work has appeared in Harper's, Esquire, The New Republic, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker and The New York Times magazine. He has written a novel and three collections of his essays. He was taken aback in 1982 when his father, almost as an aside, mentioned that the family had lost a cousin in the French branch of the family in the Holocaust. This led to over a decade of searching and interviewing the sources of Hitler's evil and how historians, Jews and the public have perceived him for the last 60 years. The task is daunting. Any explainer of Hitler must confront the abundance of already published literature. WorldCat, an electronic library reference, contains 38,000,000 book titles. A search under the subject Adolf Hitler brings up 8,109 entries; Franklin D. Roosevelt, 11,808; and Winston Churchill, 6,113. While controversies attends interpretations of Roosevelt and Churchill, none are framed in the terms of evil, mass ihurderer, or the demon incarnate. Of the three, Hitler is the prince of darkness scorching the 20th century with unprecedented genocide, the ultimate serial killer. The simple approach is to rely on monocausal explanations. Hitler was traumatized by his abusive father or by his mother or by a Jewish prostitute, or by a Jewish doctor, whatever, and that set him on his murderous course. Conversely, it was the German people who were at fault, and if Hitler had not come to power, someone else with a different name would have filled the role. The more complex and realistic approach is multicausal, in which Hitlers background, as difficult as it is to determine, his and Germany's experience in the First World War, the failure of the Weimar democracy and Hitler's charismatic and demagogic and demonic appeal captured and expressed a German form of salvation at the expense of scapegoating the Jews. Anti-Semitism was not unique to Germany, and some would say, based on the Dreyfus affair, that it
was worse in France. But only Germany and Hitler produced the virulence of the Final Solution. Russia had the pogroms, America had Henry Ford, and both bought into the spurious Protocols of the Elders of Zion. Rosenbaum is not a psychiatrist nor a forensic pathologist. He is an outstanding interviewer whose face to face dialogue with Hitler historians Alan Bullock, Hugh R. Trevor-Roper, Yehuda Bauer, perhaps the most authoritative historian of the Holocaust, UCLA psychohistorian and psychoanalyst Dr. Peter Loewenberg, theologian Emil. Fackenheim, and Claude Lanzmann, among others, assisted Rosenbaum in processing the myriad of explanations, spurious and serious. In the words of Milton Himmelfarb, "No Hitler, no Holocaust." Rosenbaum, a reported, follows leads, one of which leads him to the ghost of a German journalist, Fritz Gerlich. Gerlich, who lost his life in 1934 for opposing Hitler, and what he wrote never reached the light of day, despite Bosenbaum's search for the offending story. Gerlich, a reporter, incidentally is not mentioned in by another journalist, William Shirer, in his magisterial The Rise and Fall of the ThirdReich (1960). After about 390 pages, Rosenbaum tentatively concludes that Lucy Dawidowicz, Milton Himmelfarb, Berel Lang and theologian Emil Fackenheim came the closest to explaining Hitler-an exceptionally evil genius who crafted, as early as 1918, the annihilation of the Jews. This "selective and subjective study" is directed to the "educated consumer," a wide reading audience that Rosenbaum has successfully made his own. Lay audiences and scholars alike will be informed by Rosenbaum's inquiry, sometime rambling, repetitive and redundant, clearly obsessive, mulling and ruminating, into wide array and competition for explanation and blame placing. This book is available at the Jewish Federation Library.
More to hide than gold Greek Special* Dally Greek Bear A Wine Homemade Pastrlet Din* In/Carry Out Specializing In Baklava We Cater, Tool Full Servko Bar'Party Room* Mon.-Thura., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sal., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
YOUR 'wm
«O
m PICKIN' PLACE
OU Mill Sfapsbg Center
10SA* Dodge
496-2090
E L ALAMO "Best Mexican Food"
Nathoi • GuacamoU • Jbcoi • Fnjita$ • Bwritot • Shrimp Enchiladas • Combination Dlnntrt Carnltai • Toitadot Tbmalef Arroi Con fttto • Machaca
MEXICAN BEER , Corona • XX • Bohemia • "fixate • Carta Blanca .Optn For Lunch and Dinner 11 a.m.-O p.m. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
4917 South 24th Street • 731-8009
by Rabbi Marvin Hier and Rabbi Abraham Cooper
For more than 50 years, Switzerland has denied bureaucrat or ordinary banker who could argue that that they were Nazi Germany's bankers of choice the origin of his gold bar was untraceable. He was a during the Second World War. Today, their own senior member of the government sharing secret docindependent commission acknowledges that they uments with an anti-Semitic, extremist organization. Then there were the medical teams sent by plundered at least $444 million ($4 billion in Switzerland to assist the Nazis on the Eastern today's values) from the victims of Nazism. This carefully nurtured lie was strengthened by Front. When one of the returning physicians, Dr. the silent acquiescence of many governments Rudolf Bucher, attempted to speak out against the including our own, and every effort by outside mass murder of Jews he had witnessed, his case was agencies to expose the truth was repeatedly brought before the Swiss Parliament on March 14, rebuffed by the SwisB. Even when Senator 1944. There the senior government ministers unaniD'Amato, the World Jewish Congress and others mously joined in condemning him for violating Swiss forced the issue, the Swiss government insisted neutrality and stripped him of his army commission. that their campaign was also a vilification of the Dr. Bucher's crime-protesting genocide in the name entire Swiss people, motivated by greed not justice. of humanity. Now the Swiss government is at it again, launchAnd what about the dozens of photographs the ing a sophisticated damage control effort to mischnr- Wiesenthal Center uncovered in the Library of acterize the core findings of our report, A Survey of Congress of pro-Nazi rallies held in 1941 and 1942 Nazi and Pro-Nazi Groups in Switzerland, 1930- in Basel, Zurich, Lucerne, Biel, Leysin, with enor1945 authored by historian, Professor Alan Morris mous swastika banners and posters of Adolf Hitler, 'Schom. The report breaks new ground on the ques- attended by thousands. tion of Swiss government neutrality during World Our current report is not about Swiss democratic War II. What has Schom found in the Bern archives institutions of which there were many. It is about that the Swiss prefer to ignore? extremist groups and their influence on the governThat on Oct. 17, 1942, a senior cabinet minister ment. It does not condemn the entire Swiss people and future president of Switzerland, Edward von during World War II. That would be unfair and Steiger, held meetings in his office and conspired untrue, and constitute a collective guilt for which with an elitist anti-Semitic group, the Swiss Jews have suffered for more than 2,000 years. Fatherland Association (SW) to "choke off in a According to the Swiss press, critics, includin most fundamental manner" the flow of Jewish Swiss laws and even Simon Wiesenthal, have disrefugees into Switzerland. agreed with aspects of the author's conclusions. That He told them: "...The Swiss people must learn is their prerogative. But it is crucial to remember what it means to have foreign Jews among us until that some of those same critics felt similarly about they react to it with-'that's it, no more.' " He then the Nazi gold issue. Few believe that now. requested that the SVV "...work quietly with him ; But even more important than the gold is the in this task of enlightenment..." issue of historic truth. And the most telling thing A few weeks later, Swiss customs officials about wartime Switzerland is that while the received orders that no Jew could be eligible for humanitarian Dr. Bucher was dishonored, von political asylum, sealing the fate of thousands. Steiger was rewarded with the presidency of When the war ended, after the horrors of Switzerland. There is something very troubling Auschwitz were known to the entire world, von about that kind of neutrality. Steiger again met with the SW, confirming that he Rabbi Marvin Hier is the Founder and Dean had frequently given them "classified official of the Simon Wiesenthal Center. Rabbi secrets." This was no small matter. He was no Abraham Cooper is the Associate Dean. .
July 24,1998
Beth Israel to honor Gonshers
[Creatively prepare d dishes thai celebrate the I s e a so n ' s bounty and the rich diversity of American cuisine.
Illif
1022O Regency Circle 399-9000
Beyt Shalom and adult Hebrew classes for the In an attempt to jump-start a new relationship Jewish Cultural Arts Council. with Omaha, Yigal ^.'" -^ "In a very accepting way, Rini is a lively and dedLotan, special emissary icated teacher who has a deep love of Judaism," to the Midwest office of noted Ann Kibel Schwartz, director of Temple the Jewish National Israel's Religious School. "She's able to impart this Fund, visited here last love to her students. The kids just love her; her week. In addition to servclassroom is filled with joy and humor. ing as the shaliach (mesAllan, too, has taught at Temple and at UTTO, as senger) to other midwestwell as for the Derekh Torah class, sponsored by ern communities, Lotan theJCAC. is also acting director of "Both she and Allan have made important contri- JNF's Chicago office. Yigal Lotan. butions to this Jewish community," Schwartz The organization was added. "Even our own son, Mordy, has spent many rocked by scandal last year when major donors accused JNF of withholding funds for Israel, /k a Shabbat with them!" ; A graduate of the University of Cincinnati with a shake-up of the entire senior staff and board fol B.A. in Education, Rini continued with graduate lowed with businessman and philanthropist. study at California State University and the Ronald Lauder being tapped for the presidency. ~'~'$ University of Judaism. She has also served as the . Since then, JNF has cut expenses, trimmed its staff director of Herzl Camp's Kishishim summer pro- from 220 to 140 and closed eight offices. For the next gram for older adults from the Minneapolis com- three years, 70% of what the group raises will be sent to munity, and as cook for Camp JCC's former two- Israel, according to Lotan. JNF has an annual budget of some $30 million, the majority of which is not from the week overnight camp. traditional "blue boxes' and JNF trees in Israel programs, The result of all these volunteer and professional but from major donors and other assets. ;•;•'' ventures in the area of Jewish education and contiLotan met with several Jewish community leaders nuity has been a glowing pride in watching "the and staff members while in Omaha to explore;£fas children of our friends and the friends of our chil- possibility of hosting hohoree dinners again. :T,hejl]il1j dren, become HaTalmidim Bonim (our students fundraising event was held Oct. 15,1991 when AFfi are our children)," both Gonshers said, "which real- CIO president Terry Moore was honored. V.;' \ ly shows that the unity of a community can be "Our major priorities in Israel are. water ahcf tha found in Torah." . Negev," said Lotan on his recent visit. JNF both! col-; "They have had a great religious influence on lects funds outside Israel and implements projects: many of our young people," added Rabbi Kutner. . within the state, such as dam building.and ^eser-j The community is invited to share in this tribute voirs, but has not built a desalination plant yet;; \ to the Gonshers. Cost for the dinner is $9.50- for "Our Chicago board and the St. Louis and Kansas: adults, and $6.50 for children ages 6-12. City communities have agreed to a new project Reservations may be made by calling.Beth Israel which would raise $1,000,000 in the next three Synagogue, 556-6288, or by sending a check to the years to build greenhouses and state-of-the-art irrigation systems for Moshav Sde Nitzan," Lotan office at 1502 No. 52nd St., Omaha, NE, 68104. added. "We hope Omaha will be part of that."
Angies Restaurant
Chu's
1001 Pacific
6455 Center
• Only 20 minutes from most anywhere « Featuring a complete, moderately priced menu • U.S. Choice steaks • Seafoods • Poultry • Delicious Italian dishes • Party rooms—up to 260 capacity • We accept major credit cards
Daily dinner specials $2 oil Cantonese and American dishes aro both featured. Complete Chinese food carry-out service . ia available. Mon.-Sat. 11 to 10:30 Sun. and Holidays: Noon to 9:30 Dosed Tuesday ' -
341-8800
553-6454
09 8 KITCHEN. HOURS: Mon.-Sat., 10a.m.-i0p.m. BAR & GRILL
, Sun. Noon-IOp.m.
Spadilliftigln Good Food and Good Poopl.
2007 M. 72nd
554-5821
Restaurant I and Lounge I Serving Omaha's finest steak I prime rib, lobster and ciab legs. I Located at
I 73rd and Mercy Road I OPEN 7 NIGHTS A WEEK & Mon. thru Kri. for lunch | Reservations honored 391-7440
King Fong Cafe
low Howard St
GALLAGHER'S
• HAPPY HOUR In the Lounge Moa-Fri. 4:30-6:30 (Free appetizers)
• Open for Lunch: Mon.-Sat. • Special Sunset Dinners: Mon.-Fri. 4:30-6:30 p.m.
r. 132nd & Arbor • 330-2110
13th & Howard • 345-6921 90th & Fort • 572-5223
Chinese and American Dishes Specializing in Cantonese Foods . and Chinese Family Style Dinners
"Fined In Stealo, Chicken, Seafood and Italian D l a h u ' MF:!l:00AM. I:MPM M.TI15.00PM.IO.OOPM n u * SATi A30PM - »fl) PM . (402) M2-S0S8 AcctpM 2O02 Sooth SD(hSll«t Omaha, NAnjVaM10»jj|
'CAFE
greatest & lunch daily 17lh&Vinlon'449-911g
Open dally 11 a.m.-9:45 p.m. Closed Sunday and Holidays
Lunch & dinner daily 331-6419
341-3433 or 341-3437
Downtown Paplllion - So. 84th St. We Deliver Papio & La Vista
LUNCH SPECIALS SERWNO MEXICAN FOOD •F.,11. •T«cos b1tm*Swid«ir*P'n loBpm FULL AMERICAN M£H U 'Slukt .prims >U> >Su Food Ctiltdnnt Mflnu Ayadtbi* f 0 M « w p l
00lhiArboc39t-0101 Fax 391-1086
Old Market
3424856
Weekly Specials New Lunch Menu
VOTED #1 BURGER
315 South 16th
9fl©
Page 11
JNF Midwest Region head visits Omaha
(Continued from page 1) its future," Allan noted. "We want to deepened commitment to religious practice, and to synagogue and Jewish learning so that our children can return here and lead Jewish lives." As part of that commitment, Allan took over the leadership of Yachad, a group for mentally and physically challenged Jewish teens and young adults, from Rabbi Mark Urkowitz, its founder in 1992. "Over the years, Allan has worn many hats in our community," said Linda Novak, who staffs Yachad programs. "His determination to meet the needs of all led to the creation of our local Yachad group. The support, enthusiasm, and, most of all, willingness to ask others for monetary assistance has helped Yachad be the active group it is today. "This dinner is a very well-deserved recognition for all his work!" With the help of Joe Kirshenbaum, who solicited local foundations and Jewish families, Allan's dream for a $100,000 endowment for Yachad has been realized. The next goal for all the families involved with Yachad is a group home for Jewish adults. Their volunteer service has not been limited toyouth work and education. First Allan, and later Rini, joined the Chevra Kadishe, the ritual burial society, often taking time off work to participate in a final mitzvah for another Jew. In addition, Rini has been actively involved in Jewish organization work. She has been a solicitor for the UJA/Federation Women's Campaign for 18 years, chairs the annual drive for Hadassah's Youth Aliyah, and volunteers her time for NCJW's Gift Wrap. , All these activities occur after she has put in a 40-hour week as a sales associate for Passport, Unlimited, and teaches Sunday School for Temple Israel, afternoon religious school for Congregation .
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Trovato's NOW TWO LOCATIONS Countryside Village 390-0007 and .
5013 Underwood 556-9505 (6 blocks north of 50th & Dodge) Steako and Italian Cuisine Finest Homemade Italian Cooking Open 7 days a week
SERVING LUNCH & DINNER Reserve Private Room For Parties Catering AkoAxiibble ROCKBfiOOK VILLAGE IO8lh & Cantor 39I-J5J5
zi(ys PIZZERIA 7024 Dodge Street • 301-1881 13463 W. Center • 330-1444 1313 Homd St -Old Uuket- 344-2232
0*1
i,oiiiaiia^NE ''''•':; I'jftdjfSk^o&B:":';':';
College bash planned at JCC outdoor pool
Lifting the veil: Ethiopian theater troupe performs in Israel by Wendy Elliman
Shouting and screaming, crying and shrieking with laughter - it's all considered immodest behavior among Israel's Ethiopian community. Reticence, reaerve, and a smiling face is the Ethiopian way, no matter what emotions churn inside. "Given that starting point, it was very difficult for Ethiopian actors to open up on stage, Westernstyle," said Dr. Yafifa Schuster, director of Israel's first Ethiopian theater troupe, Natala, which is supported by the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC).
Members of Natala, above, use the stage as a vehicle to share their culture with nativeborn Israelis. Photo by Karen Benzian "Their acting teachers literally had to force them into expressing the emotions of the characters they played and into making emotional demands of one another in performance. The fact they can how do this with professional ease is one of the major successes of Natala," Schuster added. Natala, named for the white shawl that is the cultural symbol of Ethiopian Jews, has 14 performers - 11 Ethiopian Israelis, one immigrant from Australia and two non-Ethiopian Israelis - all of whom recently graduated a one-year program in theater at Jerusalem's School for Performing Arts. Piplomas proudly in hand, the troupe is now hard at work on their second production. "Yes, the second," said Schuster. "We did theater training for our first play simultaneously with the rehearsals and it wasn't sufficient. We just needed to concentrate on acting skills. The problem was, the play was so successful, it was hard to stop performing!" JDC's Israel office began supporting the group in 1996 as a means of promoting cultural understanding between the new immigrants and sabras. "We already had a range of programs supporting art and creativity in Israel's Ethiopian Jewish community," said Esti Rozman, who directs the program for JDC. "We saw theater as one more area of cultural self-expression, and from which to build bridges to the general community. So we helped the School for Performing Arts develop the special program, and we provided stipends for the students." • Natala's first play, called Black Natala, was cowritten by members of the troupe, Schuster and her fellow director, theatre and film professional Sharon Levitan. It tells the story of three young Ethiopian Jews on their desperate journey to Israel. In words, music and dance, it reveals a love story in the desert, the dangers of the long trek and the struggle to reconcile the reality they find in Israel with their long held dreams. We performed Black Natala more than 40 times, all over Israel and-even once in Budapest, says Schuster. "Successful as it waB, however, we knew it wasn't good enough. We planned, as soon as we could, to build a program to teach Natala's actors classical stage skills, movement, acting, stagecraft and voice development. For them to bring something new to the Israeli stage - to be more than • black actors presenting their rich heritage as
quaint folklore - and to turn Ethiopian culture into an international culture, they needed the training of Western repertoire theater." Western style theater is new for Ethiopian immigrants," noted Yehiel Eran of JDC, which worked with the Jerusalem Foundation and the city of Jerusalem to fund the one-year theater program. "It can be a vehicle for dealing with their own immigration issues while sharing them with the general public. But to perform here, Ethiopians needed to make a transition from one form of the art to another. In so doing, they enrich us all." Although many in the troupe hope to turn professional, all currently have other jobs and responsibilities. For example, 24-year-old Tehilla Yishayahu came to Israel with Operation Moses 14 years ago and is studying for high school matriculation. "I have two young children and a full study program, so it was really hard to fit in 10 hours a week of theatre, as well," she said. "But I wanted a way to express myself." Shai Fredo is assistant director for Natala's second production, a surrealistic play unconnected to the Ethiopian experience. His ambition is to be a movie director, and he was among 400 people who applied for 19 places at the Jerusalem Film Institute last year. "I wasn't accepted, but they told me to reapply next year," he said hopefully. "In the meantime, I help direct and act in Natala's new production, and work nights as a security guard." Natala also has three non-Ethiopian members, including Marsha Tov, formerly of Melbourne, Australia. "We whites are part of Natala because it's Israeli theater," she said. "But we're the minority, the strangers. Perhaps our different perspectives make working in Natala more of a challenge than usual. But I love it."
by Gloriann Levy, Director Jewish Cultural Arts Council
•
The "Come Make a Splash at the College Bash" pool party has been set by the planning committee for Sunday, Aug. 9, from 6-9 p.m. at the JCC outdoor pool. The party will include a kosher barbecue, music, swimming, games' and schmoozing with old and new friends. Theevent is geared for college students returning to college and incoming college freshmen and is free and open to all Jewish college students. In case of bad weather, it will be canceled! "The event will be a blast, and we hope to see you all there," said Gary Shyken, member of the planning committee. Jessica' Chait, Alan DePorte, Allison Gordon, Brian and Jeff Nogg, Lance Polikov and Beth Shyken make up the rest of the committee. The event is the first of a series of four events for college students, sponsored by the JCC. For more information, call 334-6403.
EVERYONE READS JEWISH PRESS ADVERTISING You just did! Call 334-6448 or 334-6451
AFFORDABLE • QUALITY • ENERGY EFFICIENT • EASY MAINTENANCE (NO PAINTING) • DURABLE
The winitow interior is vinyl material and has a factory wood grain finish (hot an overlay) that can be restained to match existing wood. The outside Is vinyl or heavy extruded aluminum available in 6 colors. Dual locks and 7/8* thick insulated glass or tempered safety glass is standard. We offer financing, installation and remodeling. Other products: Siding • Garage Doors • Openers • Storm Doors • Patio Doors • Entry Doors • Windows
Centrally located (Take I-80 to 60th or 42nd Street Exit, 2 blocks south to F Street then to 46lh Street) 4665GSlH)el»402-733-6440»OPEN SAT. 9:00A.M... 1:00PM.
*
'
«*•"•*«
/ith its 220-horsepower engine and available four-wheel drive, the new RX300 Is powerful enough to get you where you want to go. Yet with Its advanced independent suspension system, it also gives you the luxurious ride you expect from a Lexus. And guarantees the competitfon a very bumpy ride. See your Lexus dealer. Like No Other Vehicle or Value on Earth. Iexu3.com/omaha
LEXUSOF OMAHA 13025 West Dodge Road, Omfa (402)333-6400 CI998 Uxus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, USA., Inc. Lexus reminds you to wear scatbclts, secure children in rear seat and obey alt speed laws. *MSRP includes destination charge. Excludes taxes, title, license and other optional equipment. Actual dealer price may vary. Bicycles not Included, '
A