September 18, 1998: Rosh Hashanah Edition

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Photo by Lisle Ramsey, 1995

^ * ^ ^ ^ . J i i k few Scat's issue features Jevristh "Women of Pistijiction' and hGnofS the Ah ^jt/;<r? Chil G&4y?7, R Rose B Blumkin, 1893-1998 lki 18931998

Our women of distinction...

There are so many women who have achieved greatness. They are our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, wives, daughters and friends. They work outside the home and raise families, too; they're young and youngat-heart. They make our lives better.

When the Jewish Press Committee decided to feature these women for our New Year's issue, they looked for women in a variety of places-in business, the arts and entertainment, organizational life, education, Jewish life, health and human services, and athletics.

We also sent letters to the presidents of every Jewish organization and synagogue, all the rabbis and synagogue administrators and the directors of all the Centers of Excellence and the Jewish Federation.

As expected, the initial list was lengthy.

After all, there are many women who come to mind when thinking o{N'shei Chayil (the plural of Ashet Chayil or Woman of Valor).

Probably the most notable name submitted was that of the late Rose Blumkin.

Businesswoman, philanthropist, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and as Rabbi Paul Drazen noted in his beautiful eulogy, "teacher."

She, more than anyone, epitomizes/a

Woman of Valor. So it is to Rose Blumkin, or 'Mrs. B' as she was known, that we dedicate this 1998 Rosh Hashanah issue.

Many of the other names on our list had already been featured in these pages, some more than once.

The women whose stories and photos appear in this issue may not even be known to our readers, or were featured many, many years ago, yet they have achieved in remarkable ways.

We're sorry we couldn't write about all the women whose names were submitted to us. Some did decline to be interviewed; others have lives so busy, it was impossible to schedule an interview.

In the end, we ran out of time, space, and writers...but well keep the list, like we did from the submissions for the 1997 Passover issue dedicated to synagogue volunteers, and someday soon, those women, too, will appear in these pages.

There are many people who are involved in the creation of such a large issue. It would have been impossible without the hard work and enthusiasm of our full-time staff: Larry Axelrod, Advertising Manager; Sheryl Friedman, Bookkeeper; and Maureen LaPour, Managing Editor; .

This issue was a record-breaker in sales;

thanks to Larry Axelrod and sales representatives Barbara Frankel and Rocky Stern. Nearly all the ads were created by Maureen LaPour, who also deftly managed page production.

Thanks also goes to all the writers who so carefully interviewed our N'shei Chayil: Diane Axler Baum, Caren Friedman, Melissa Katzman (who also assisted with page production and scanning of the articles submitted), Bert Lewis, Joan K. Marcus, Susan Paley, Rebecca Perelman and Courtney Rabb. We hope you enjoy the fruit of their labors.

Additional thanks go to George Schapiro, our trustworthy office volunteer, who proofread these pages, and to our spouses, children and significant others who temporarily allowed us to 'live' in the Press office non-stop this month.

Finally, we thank the advertisers in this issue and every other edition of the Jewish Press. It is their financial support that allows us to present the news of Omaha, the country, Israel and the world, to you, our loyal readers. We hope you'll patronize them and tell them how muchyou appreciate them, too!

L'Shana Tova - a happy, healthy 5759!

Steve Levinger, Chairman Carol Katzman, Editor

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"Best•'Wishes for aMappy, Healthy, Peaceful fromtheStaff and Committee of the JewiskfBress

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THE JEWISH PRESS (Founded in 1920) The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel.

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1998

5759

The New^lfear You Joy And Happiness.

The three 'E's'

by Rebecca Perelman

Education, entertainment, and enthusiasm are a few words that sum up Patty Nogg.

Born and raised in Council Bluffs, IA, she headed to Arizona State University to pursue her college career. After graduating in 1975 with an Elementary Education degree, she moved to Omaha and married Steve Nogg.

Nogg commuted to Council Bluffs for two years while she taught first grade. After the birth of her twins, Brian and Jeff in 1977, and Annie in 1980, Nogg put her career on hold for the next 14 years.

"As much as I loved teaching, the time I spent raising my children was priceless," Nogg said. "I knew I'd one day return to the classroom, only after I fulfilled my responsibility as a full-time mother."

But becoming a mother did not keep her from community involvement. From volunteer work to plays and performances, Nogg engaged her talent which shaped the rest of her life.

"Performing has always been a love of mine," she said. "I've always enjoyed singing and dancing, and found musicals to be the perfect way for me to do it."

Nogg became involved in community theater and her first performance was Camelot in 1979. Other musicals she did were Fascinating Rhythms, Sugar Babies, and 42nd Street. She encouraged her children to perform at an early age when she and her twins were part of the King and I cast in 1983.

Nogg volunteered for the National Council of Jewish Women in Trooping Theater, which allowed her to continue with her musical talents. She and a group of women traveled around the community performing a children's play at hospitals, schools, and other organizations.

"Trooping Theater was just the beginning of my volunteer work," Nogg said. "I did lots of things in NCJW and held several positions." ( Nogg has done volunteer work for the Jewish Federation through the years as well as the Omaha Community Playhouse. There she chaired

the membership drive and still continues to volunteer. She is currently President of L.O.V.E., the auxiliary for the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

"I started doing volunteer work pretty early on because I thought that was what I was supposed to do," Nogg said. "Plus, I enjoyed it."

When Nogg decided to return to work in 1992,. she chose a job that combined both her love for . education and singing. She started working at the Child Development Center at the JCC as an assistant teacher, and focused on teaching the Judaic Music part of the program. Nogg currently works part time with the preschoolers during the school year.

"I really love it," she said. "I love working in a Judaic setting and being able to combine singing with Jewishness."

One thing that sets the CDC apart from public schools, according to Nogg, is the introduction of Jewish observance in addition to ;our standard "play based" education.

• [• "The early years are so important for: children because they are so open to learning things," Nogg said. "When they experience Judaism in the classroom, they go home and tell their family about it.

This often stimulates parents to have more observance in their home."

Nogg wanted to have a better understanding of Judaism so she enrolled in Derech Torah, an introduction to Judaism course made possible through the Cultural Arts Program at the JCC. This course was designed for Jews and non-Jews seeking more Judaic knowledge.

"We covered all the life cycles, Jewish holidays, Jewish history, the Bible, Israel, and so many other areas over a 20-week time span," she said. "Taking this class reinforced my belief that a Jewish education should not end at the Bar or Bat Mitzvah. It is really a lifelong process. I knew a lot of 'hows' of Judaism, this class taught me some of the 'whys'."

Nogg looks forward to taking a continuation of Derech Torah in the fall. Last year, she participated in several Judaic study classes offered for educa-

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Patty Nogg enjoys playing with her preschoolers. tors organized by Susie Drazen.

"These classes helped me to broaden my Judaic background, which enabled me to give back to the children," Nogg said. "This is important when working with preschoolers who come from all different backgrounds."

Nogg was responsible for creating a Shabbat program with two-year-olds last year. This program taught the children songs and blessings appropriate for Shabbat.

"The children not only get it, but get excited about it," she said. • Nogg^s peaceful nature and caring heart draw the children's love and respect to her.

"One thing I love most about my job is the adorable kids I get to see on a daily basis," she said. "I knew I never wanted to substitute teach because of this reason. I like knowing the children I work with."

Teaching has provided Nogg with the opportunity to share her talents and strengths with her students, while setting an ideal.example for them to follow.

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Hands-on health .care," with, a heart selected to travel to New York to receive training in the Eden Alternative, a new nursing home philosophy. The Eden Alternative focuses more on resident interaction with youth, pets and plants.

Golbitz sees one of her primary roles as an educator of "staff, families, residents, and the community," as she directs the home towards this type of nursing facility.

Only one other Omaha nursing home has implemented the Eden Alternative, yet it is popular in other areas. A few Nebraskans have received the

tries "to make [their stay] better." Her position also allows her to feel good about "enabling and empowShe was there when the doors first opened. ering these people to pass on their stories."

Nearly 16 years later, Darlene Golbitz continues Outside of the Home, Golbitz has been involved to be an integral part of the Rose Blumkin Jewish in numerous community organizations. Her past Home. As one of the charge nurses at the home, activities include sitting on the board of the Golbitz has direct contact with both the residents Jewish Community Center, chairing the dance and the doctors. She is responsible for an array of program and the Jewish Cultural Arts Council, duties, from assessing and writing patient care serving as a board member of the National plans to monitoring eating patterns and problems Council of Jewish Women, serving as President of in the dining room to answering call lights. A priBeth El Synagogue's Sisterhood/ Women's League, mary concern is helping residents and being an active member of "do as much as they can for themnumerous committees and proselves to the best of their ability." jects. ,, Mrs. Golbitz was 16 years old She credits the Jewish communiwhen she made the decision to ty for helping her to succeed. "[I enter the health field. Her volunam] fortunate to be able to work in teer work and education paralleled such a caring and Jewish environone another along the way to her ment, with.such concerned and current position. As a high school attentive staff and family memstudent, she was a candy striper in bers." her small hometown outside of In addition to keeping busy with Pittsburgh. She obtained her nursher career and volunteer positions, ing diploma from the nursing * Golbitz's family life is a top priorischool of Montefiore, the Jewish hospital in Pittsburgh. Her course „Jarlene _ Golbitz, _. center, socializes with two residents of the Rose Blumkin to- She and husband Sherman are the proud parents of adult chilwork continued through December, H o m e > R o s e Binstein and Dorothy Eirenberg. dren Bill, Leslie, and David. When 1995, when she obtained her Bachelor's degree training necessary to implement such a system, from UNO, with Gerontology and Public and Golbitz is certified to speak about its focus on her children were young, she was involved with PTA, leading David's Cub Scout troop arid Leslie's Administration as her areas of concentration. social, rather than medical, treatment.

Brownie and Girl Scout troops. She took a ten Prior to completing her degree, Mrs. Golbitz volShe compares her new project to the nursing break from working in order to raise her chilunteered with the National Council of Jewish home where her grandmother once resided. When year dren.

Women delivering kosher Meals on Wheels to the Golbitz was six years old, she would visit her She encourages those who are considering a Sher Home. The Sher residents, her first contacts grandmother in an actual house. health care career to get a taste of the field by volwith the elderly population of Omaha, were a plea"Nursing homes are heading back to that-head- unteering. She notes that the health field is changsure to work with, and Mrs. Golbitz soon found herself teaching needlework at the home. After two ing towards being more 'care oriented,*" she said. ing every day, and is moving towards more "hands years of volunteer work, she applied for a part-time Tho shift, which should take 12 to 18 months, will on" work. Nursing home work, she says, is more for be away from an institutional model and towards a social-oriented people, rather than science-orientposition. . , . .- . ••••,:. "home-like" environment. ed, as it is "up close and personal without expecting From part-time evenings to part-time days' to five Her "personal fulfillment is to have an ongoing anything in return." Golbitz feels it is important to years,of being a full-time charge nurse, her contri- relationship with the residents"-ah advantage to "make a positive difference." : butions, to RBJH continue to impress the communi- working at a nursing home. Talking with the resiShe has. been making-that positive difference ty; Most recently, she was one of two RBJH nurses dents is something she finds pleasure in, as she since before the doors opened. ,

by Caren Friedman

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Mimi and the late Dr. Milton Waldbaum didn't even know about Nebraska during their childhoods. She was born and raised in the Bronx and he came from Brooklyn. They met while Mimi was a student at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York and they were married in 1942. Milt received a commission in the United States Navy, and served in World War II. After the war, the couple went back to New York, but they didn't like living there. Mimi said, jokingly, "We weren't happy there because we both had too much family." In 1946, the Waldbaums went to live in Grand Island, Nebraska. Milt's family owned a powdered egg business there and he worked for his older brother.

When she was asked about the upcoming gubernatorial election, she said, "Fin just delighted that Bill Hpppner is a candidate because I worked with him when he was United States Senator Bob Kerrey's chief-of staff. I think that he'll do a great job if he's elected."

Waldbaum works half-time for Senator Kerrey.

She reviews and does paperwork for nominations to the service academies. She also reviews grant proposals which organizations around Nebraska make and have asked for Senator Kerrey's support. Her job is to review these requests. Another one of her jobs is to help organizations who are looking for funding from various agencies; " ~ Senator Kerrey noted, "Mimi is a champion of the people of Nebraska. • "Her efforts and successes are a shining example

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Mimi Waldbaum works alongside Senator Bob Kerrey in his Omaha office.

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In 1950, the family moved to Wakefield, Nebraska, a town pf 1,000 people. Mjlt began his. own business. Mimi quipped, "We were the only Jews in the whole county!"

After the business was started, he decided to become a doctor. He applied and was accepted to the University of Nebraska Medical School and, in 1952, the family moved to Omaha.

She recalled, "When we came to live in Omaha, it was like coming back into the world. It was wonderful!" It was then that the Waldbaum family joined Temple Israel and she began her involvement in the Omaha community. Waldbaum started by joining the League of Women Voters and eventually became chapter and state president.

She says that all of her efforts have been directed toward learning the needs of people in the community and trying to effect changes through government arit community organizations.

She was a founding board member of the Nebraska Humanities Council and was the only "public" member working with five representatives of post-secondary institutions in Nebraska. She developed dialogue, between organizations and groups across the state.

Waldbaum served on the United Way board and on the appropriations committee, where she fought hard to increase funding for programs for girls and women.

She was also a founding member of the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission which established procedures and mechanismstomonitor political campaign contributions. Other activities include: The Nebraska Advisory Committee to the United States Civil Rights Commission; The'National Conference of Christians and Jews; The Anti-Defamation League; and the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

In 1994, she was chosen by the YWCA as one of their Women of Distinction. Each year, eight women are chosen. The.nominating process for the award takes five monthB and honors outstanding women from the Omaha area. :• .;: In 1997, Waldbaum received the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Award from the Nebraska Democratic Party. She was pleased and honored to receive the award because she had voted for President Roosevelt in his last election. She is a Democrat because she believes that Democrats truly help people.

of public service," he added. "We are proud-and . l u c k y - - : t o h a v e , h e r o n . o u r f , t e a m . " , •-,>•;•:•,•...•,,-•*,

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Waldbaum's latest involvement is with Girls Inc., an organization which was formerly Girl's Clubs.

She is on the board of directors, and is enthused about the work being done.

"Work is being done is primarily North and South Omaha," she said. "They teach these young women how to use computers, how to do math and science, and they help them to develop self esteem so that they can make something of themselves."

She went on to tell about an election that the girls had last year during the time of the general election in Nebraska. . ~ The young woman who was elected president came to a board meeting and announced that, she was so taken with the electoral process that she had decided that she was going to be the first black woman president!

Another project in which Waldbaum is involved is the Women's fund of Greater Omaha. She is a founding member of the project which raises a major amount of money for endowments. Interest from this money is used for programs which help women and girls which included a task force on domestic violence. .

Probably her greatest accomplishment is, that of being a wife and mother. She speaks proudly of her three children, John, J e r r y , and Susan n .

Hughson. She has nine grandchildren.

Mimi hopes that, by her involvement in the com' munity, she has set an example for other Jewish/ women. •. She hopes to increase the level of involvement of women in programs for young girls.

"I've worked very hard to make people be responsible for government. If you don't vote, you have no right to complain," she stated. .^ "I can't measure whether or not Fve made a difference, but I've tried!"

Mimi Waldbaum has been involved in promoting more participation in the decision making on boards and committees of all agencies--of the clients of the agencies, and of the women in the community.' '"

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"I've worked to involve more volunteers in'com-;; munity and government activities," she added.

"Volunteers are a tremendouB resource and they must be recognized and appreciated."

Speaking for families and children

by Joan K. Marcus Carol Bloch was still in high school when she met her huBband, Steve. They fell in love, and, while Carol was still in college, she left her family in Brooklyn and came to live in Omaha. In those days, in order to live together, couples married.

Since Carol and Steve were deeply in love, they decided that they would marry before Carol finished college.^ This was a big decision for such a small young woman!

Their honeymoon was the long trip across country to Omaha. They arrived in Omaha oh Friday afternoon and,Steve, started^Creighton-University Law School on Monday morning; she continued her studies in Omaha. This was the beginning of her life in Nebraska 34 years ago.

She graduated from Omaha U (it's now the University of Nebraska at Omaha) and became a teacher. She taught first grade at Lake School until she became pregnant with her son, Michael.

She was a full-time mom to Michael and his sister, Jennifer for many years and then became a professional volunteer.

Bloch joined the Junior League of Omaha in order to learn about being a volunteer. She thought that this would be a good way to learn about the activities of different organizations. This led to her involvement in Planned Parenthood and the beginning of the Friends of Planned Parenthood.

At that time, family planning was politically correct. Bloch noted, "Planned Parenthood served people who came for service and education."

She went on to say that she thinks that many of the problems that she had learned about from other agencies were caused by too many unwanted children.

"It affected family life because children were being mistreated. Children deserve better. They deserve to be wanted and loved," she added.

Bloch became involved in politics because the issues that she cares about, such as family planning, abortion rights, and: church/state issues, became political. She works on behalf of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) and Planned Parenthood of Omaha-CoUncir Bluffs ' (PPOCB):' She is alBb a Board member of that ' agency's political 'arm, Nebraska Planned Parenthood Voters for Choice. This organization' does endorse candidates on the local and state levei.

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"In'order to protect reproductive'choice, rights, and health care for women," Bloch stated, "we have to have politicians who agree that these are basic human rights."

"We should voice our opposition to anti-choice, anti-family planning, and anti-sexuality education proponents who wish to impose their personal, religious, or moral views on all of us," she added.

She went on to say that extreme conservative religious interests opposed to abortion, and often to contraception, have placed heavy political pressure on federal, state and local governments to fashion health and human service policies in line with their particular agendas. She believes that we must not allow the views of any one religious group to be imposed on the rest of society and that the founding -principle of separation of religion and state must remain strictly enforced.

Bloch is also the State Public Affairs Chairwoman for the National Council of Jewish Women.

"If we do nothing else, but let our politicians know that there are Jewish women's organizations out here watching their votes and watching what they do, we've done an important job," she added.

Through her work with NCJW, she established the annual "NCJW Lobby Days" during which Omaha Section members meet with state legislators at the Capitol to share concerns regarding issues affecting women, children and families.

She has also participated in the NCJW Washington Institute, when members from all over

SALUTING

1998's WOMEN OF VALOR

Carol Bloch the country converge on Washington to meet with their representatives.

Because of Bloch's efforts, NCJW has continued its relationship with The Pro-Choice Coalition of Nebraska, The Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and joined the Mainstream Committee of Nebraska, an organization which promotes the separation of church and state.

Prevention is an issue about which she is deeply concerned. She believes, for example, if-you spend money on children early in their lives, you won't have to spend as much money on prisons. . She said it is difficult to lobby on behalf of children because they can't vote. Children are not a priority because they don't make up a constituency and, therefore p^h'Btia^sddn'tthiJi'that they're'important" l ' In 1990, Bloch was active in lobbying against the Parental Notification Bill which would require that the parent of a minor be notified 48 hours before a daughter has an abortion. '../:"• She said, "The bill sounds like a good idea. In an ideal world, all families would be stable, open, and caring. All parents would expect and encourage their teenage daughters to discuss the problems of an unwanted pregnancy. In fact, the world is not ideal, and there are many family situations, including unstable or abusive home environments, which make such communication impossible."

Bloch added that we need to address the causes of the problem of teen pregnancy and prevention, not punish teenagers and their children.

She encourages schools and organizations to provide teens with accurate information about sexuality and contraception. It is her opinion that teens should be given knowledge and not be threatened with retribution.

She hopes that when people hear from her, they know that the information is credible and that she will follow, through. She knows that NCJW is respected by the Nebraska legislature.

In 1987, Bloch served as president of PPOCB. She waB recognized by that Organization in 1989 as the recipient of its Curtis T. Todd, M.D.y Outstanding Volunteer Award.

NCJW, Omaha Section, gave her their Distinguished Service Award in 1990. And she was appointed to NCJWs National Board in 1996.

Linda Allen, Development Director of Planned Parenthood of Omaha-Council Bluffs, said, "Carol Bloch is a person who truly cares. She always keeps focused on the issue and is always articulate, caring, knowledgeable, and informed."

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fifi These days she's fulfilling th dream she and rabbi had, of traveling and seein as much as she "There's nothing special to say about me any- can of Jewish historically interest ng places more. I'm not doing anything which involves comShe located a travel and toui company which munity activity....really, you could find a more ,meets her explicit criteria: they r spect the laws of interesting person to interview." So said Jeanette kashrut and of shabbat. Wh irever they go, Nadoff with more than a touch of understatement, arrangements have been made ( head of time for on the day we visited. the meals to be absolutely koi her and for the She said that "of course I still help, where and observance of the sabbath. when help is needed," but mostly she is fairly low The tours are what Mrs. Nac off calls "Jewish key these days. history" trips, with the opportun ty to visit places She will talk about the years when she and her only read or heard about in th 3 past, plus the late husband, Rabbi Isaac Nadoff first came to chance to study the history of ea h. The first such Omaha in 1965, with three little children. She will trip she made was to the Orie t, and her face recount the early days when the Rabbi first lights up with pleasure as she re ounts highlights assumed the pulpit at Beth Israel, and the way of the visit. their family became part of the Jewish community.

A short while prior to our visit, she had returned She speaks matter-of-factly about the days when from a journey to Italy, Switzer ^ind and France, Beth Israel had its own school and how, sometimes She spoke of attending Sabbath ervices in Basal, when necessary,-either she or Rabbi would step in Switzerland, so close to Germany she could hear it and temporarily fill a staff absence. She doesn't in the dawning. She had an op ortunity to visit mention it, but records show that during the late with some of the locals following the service and 60s, the 70s and the 80s, she was more than was introduced to the editor of heir newspaper, involved in communal activities. who was ready to talk politics wit her.

Jeanette Nadoff did everything from service as Jeanette Nadoff s enthusiasm bout these tours President of the Women's Cabinet of the Jewish is contagious when she explains t lat in every case, Federation, twice was Chairman of Women's the guide is well versed and f lly prepared to Campaign, served as a member of the Federation speak in detail about the Jewish sites. She says Board of Directors, served as President of the going to these countries has giv m a new dimenBoard of the Livingston Manor, on the Executive sion to her studies and herâ&#x20AC;˘ ongoi lg interest in all Board of the Federation and on the Board of the things Judaic.

Federation Foundation.

A different kind of travel take ii a certain allotIn addition, she belonged to ORT, National ment of her time also - those trip which she takes Council of Jewish Women, Bikor Cholim, to see her family, both in this country and in Hadassah, B'nai B'rith Women, Beth Israel Israel. She travels east to visit members of her Sisterhood, Amit, and the National Board of the husbands family as well as her ovs n.

Union of Orthodox Women. She is still on the She only needs to go as far : Chicago to see National Board of Amit. three of her grandchildren, since that's where her She also fails to mention the many citations and son David and his family make their home and awards and honors of various kinds she received ' where David practices law. during all those busy years. She doesn't hesitate, To see daughters Julie and Sh iron, Mrs Nadoff however, to speak warmly of their "synagogue life." must travel to Israel, where b( th of them live.

She says she and the Rabbi "were a team".

Each is the mother of ten childre , Julie already a She speaks of her beginnings, in Toledo, Ohio, grandmother to two little boysi aid as this is writwhere she was born, telling of the many shuls and ten, Sharon awaits the birth oil her first grandcheders which accommodated the large influx of child. With the recital of these stktistics, Jeanette European immigrants. They were "all Orthodox",of breathes a soft kayn aynahoreh. course, and the beginning of her way of life.

Later in the fall, the great grt ndma expects to This lady has come a long way since those Toledo make the trip to see all of her ear ones and to days, and has done much to distinguish herself as welcome the newest member of her mishpocha. a capable, caring Jewish woman. Her life is very She goes every year, at least once and stays severdifferent now, since she is alone these last six al weeks. This is special time tha she spends with years. As might be expected, she's not sitting quiet- her children, to "make up for the time when I was ly in a corner, complaining. Hardly. too busy."

by Bert Lewis

She feels t h a t now, in her "retirement" years, she can enjoy the luxury of free time to lavish on the children.

Travel is wonderful but "Omaha is my home, after all these years, and my synagogue is Beth Israel". She speaks of her pleasure in what she calls "the rejuvenation" of the shul, Jeanette Nadoff and takes great pride in the "dedicated group of people" who are working to maintain its prominence as the Orthodox synagogue of Omaha.

"There is a wonderful community spirit here, and the young leadership is such a pleasure for me to see." She explains that she knew so many of these people when they were small children, and here they are now, "our future, leading with dedication and commitment."

When we began our conversation, Mrs. Nadoff told me there was nothing special to say about her, and assured me she does very little in the community these days.

Excuse the contradiction but no, that really isn't so. When she's in town, she's a busy woman. She may be cooking a kosher meal for somebody who needs it or she may agree to give somebody a place to stay, within walking distance to the synagogue.

Whatever called on to do, Jeanette Nadoff complies graciously.

She's a very spiritual woman, with a wonderfully comforting philosophy about the way people should live. She lives with the certain knowledge that every day is a beautiful gift, that there is good in everything and everyone . She says "life presents challenges, yes, but I accept them and so often something good will emerge, even from tragic events."

Her attitude is positive, her beliefs are her strengths and she says easily, "I say the glass is half full, not half empty."

She feels, deeply, the loss of her beloved partner, but she can say, "We had so many wonderful years together, I have so many wonderful memories.

"Daily I count my blessings with gratitude to God."

May happiness and peace be yours and your family's throughout the coming year.

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Loviiig her

by Joan K. Marcus

,

Dorothy Spizman doesn't think that she is a Woman of Valor! As a matter of fact, she was reluctant to be interviewed for the Jewish Press.

She shyly said, "I've just never been into having myself in the limelight. I always think about everybody else, but I'm supposed to be behind the scenes."

She and her husband, the late Phil Spizman, came to Omaha from Moline, Illinois, in order for Phil to assume a new job. The couple was very young when they came in 1961, and they didn't know anyone in their new city.

"We didn't know a soul when we first came to Omaha. I remember trying to get to meet people.

It was difficult for us because we didn't have children yet and we had no way to connect," she recalled.

"It was a little easier after Randy was born in 1962," she added. Children help you to make friends."

Spizman began to do volunteer work during the years when her children were small. She became involved with Temple Israel Sisterhood and other Jewish organizations in order to meet people and help others.

A stay-at-home mom until her youngest child was two, she had various jobs later, but she was always home for the children. For several years, she worked as a teacher's aid in a class of children who had learning disabilities. Eventually, she took a full-time job as an assistant to a controller at Tractor Supply Company.

In was in 1983 that Rabbi Barry Weinstein (then Assistant Rabbi at Temple Israel) suggested that Dorothy apply for the newly created position of Executive Director. The Board of Directors had decided that they were ready to hire an administrator and Rabbi Weinstein thought that her "financial and people skills", along with her knowledge of Temple Israel, would make Spizman a good candidate for the position.

"We could run Temple without rabbis, certainly without a board president, but we could never run Temple without Dorothy Spizman!"

Spizman works with congregants on life cycle events and helps to plan weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, Brith Milan, and bereavements. She says that it just takes common sense to know what to do'.

"The hardest thing that I had to learn when I came here was that I would never be caught up. I was always the type of person who wanted a clean desk at the end of the day and to know that I had everything finished," she laughed. "I'm never caught up now!"

She really tries hard to make people feel welcome, especially newcomers. Maybe because of her experiences when she first came to Omaha, she Dorothy Spizman recently celebrated 15 tries to connect them with other people.

"I really want people to feel good about being years as Executive Director of Temple Israel.

Temple members," she added, "Plus, my job has "Temple needed someone to just kind of tie everymade me want to learn more about Judaism. thing together. " Spizman noted. "I knew that if I "I see all of the wonderful opportunities that are applied for this position, it would be more than a here for Jewish adult learning and it makes me full-time job. want to know more. I see people happy to be here "I don't think any of us knew exactly what the job at Temple and I'm so proud of what's going on. would become!"

"It's such a busy, upbeat place," Spizman continShe recalled, "Since I had been a Temple member ued. "I love when we have to open the doors for many years, I thought I knew what was going between the sanctuary and the social hall to get all on. There were all kinds of things that I hadn't of the people in. It makes me happy when people even thought about. It was a learning experience feel that Temple Israel is a home and they can be for me, members of the board, and the rabbis. I felt themselves when they come here!" good about my job from the beginning, I think that She was deeply moved when she was given a trip it was a good mesh. I liked my work right away to Israel for her 15th anniversary at Temple and because it was so varied." admitted it has been a privilege for her to work At Temple, Dorothy manages the office, the cus- with people in order to make them feel as good todial staff, and the building. She joked, "When about Temple as she does. the roof leaks, the trees need trimming, the grass "I haven't made arrangements yet for the trip needs cutting, they call me!" because I've been too busy/* she joked.

She coordinates the calendar, makes the budget, Her greatest joy have been her children, Randy, works with various committees, and tries to make Julie, Beth, David, and Mark. sure that things run smoothly for the clergy. She "I'm really lucky because they're individuals who oversees preparations for services and helps to care about what happens in this world, and what make arrangements for funerals. happens to other people," she noted. "They're sensiJane Rips, past president of Temple Israel, said, tive, they care about each other, and about me."

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Making a .differenceby Caren Friedman

A most dynamic woman. A woman who gains one's admiration and respect within minutes of speaking with her. A woman with dozens of accomplishments in her educational, professional, and volunteer careers, Patricia Newman says that her job of "being mom is number one."

Children Emily (6), Bobby (8), and husband of 14 years, Jeff, are the most important people in her life, and yet, this Clinical and School Psychologist has spent nearly 20 years helping children and their families improve the quality of their lives.

Dr. Newman has been in private practice at Family Enrichment, Inc., since 1987. As a psychologist specializing in children and adolescents, her responsibilities are numerous and far-reaching.

She performs psychological evaluations, diagnoses mental health disorders, and leads group and individual psychotherapy. In addition, she makes "a great effort to go to schools" and work with youth and teachers in that setting. A major portion of a child's day is spent in school, she said, and therefore, observations and changes made in that context could better a "huge part" of their lives. She feels that it is important for children to be able to generalize their success in her office to all aspects of their lives, including school and family life.

Poor school grades and anxiety about family are just two of the many reasons children come to talk to Dr. Newman. "So many come in with a great deal of pain—it doesn't have to be that way...l absolutely love sitting with families and helping them figure out how to make their lives better," she said. She wants to teach children that their situations are not their fault, and they need not carry that weight into adulthood.

A long path of education and work experience

Dr. Newman with her children, Bobby and Emily. has enabled Dr. Newman to enjoy her chosen career. Earning her B.S. in Elementary Education from Creighton University in 1980 was her first step towards a profession focusing on children. She continued her education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she earned her M.S. in Educational Psychology in 1983, before moving on to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, earning her Ph.D. in School Psychology in 1986. Fonnal education was complete in 1987, when Dr. Newman obtained an M.S. in Education with a specialization in learning disabilities from Creighton.

In addition to her dedication in the classroom,

Dr. Newman was hard at work outside of the classroom. From her practica work with medically fragile children at UNMC, Ralston Public Schools' learning disabled students, and behavioral disordered children from St. Joseph's Mental Health Center, to her internships and post doctoral practica, Dr. Newman has worked with a wide variety of clinical populations. She currently serves as a parttime faculty member at Creighton, in addition to her full-time private practice.

Throughout her years in the field, Dr. Newman has noticed a positive change in the face of psychology: "People aren't so ashamed of behavioral and emotional disorders."

She noted that the shame people felt about their conditions prevented them from seeking help and making changes. Training people in the medical explanations for mental disorders helps to alleviate the guilt and shame that many feel, and in turn frees them to work on the problem. Dr. Newman has taken on her own role in this shift, as an educator on attention anxiety disorders.

"There's been a stigma against mental health disorders, and now people feel they can ask questions and make changes," she noted. "I hope that I have been a part of that."

She admits that in order to become an expert therapist, one must "be comfortable in your own skin." Because a psychologist's personal feelings may surface during a therapeutic relationship, one must be in check with her own circumstances and emotions.

Dr. Newman said that it is important to be aware of yourself and your own baggage so that it does not prevent others from growing.

(Continued on page 11)

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Making a difference (Continued from page 10) Her inspiration to help others reach their potential came from within the Omaha Jewish' Community. She credits Suzanne Singer as helping her, as a woman, to integrate her family and work.

She remembers Rabbi Meyer Kripke as the first person who instilled in her the motivation to "help those who need help...and make a difference in others' lives." Dr. Newman took classes with Rabbi Kripke at Creighton and made her conversion to Judaism with him as well.

Dr. Newman makes a connection between being a good Jewish person and being a successful psychologist. She finds both Judaism and psychology to be supportive of family and social constructs, and to be "open-minded and all encompassing."

Her choices to become Jewish and a psychologist were built from similar foundations.

The Omaha Jewish Community has had the good fortune of Dr. Newman's participation. She is a past regional President of the Anti-DefamationLeague, past president of the National Council of Jewish Women Omaha Section, and board member of numerous groups and committees: Hadassah, Jewish Family Services; Jewish Federation Library, the Jewish Press, the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and currently sits on the board of the Murray and Sharee Newman Foundation. She has chaired a number of committees, ranging from a Holocaust Studies Workshop to the Federation's Super Sunday telethon. • She has been recognized by professional and community organizations, earning the Nebraska School Psychologists' Association award for Outstanding School Psychologist in 1989, the United Way of the Midlands' Cultural Adult Award in 1989, and two Young Leadership Awards in the Jewish community (1989 and 1990).

Such honors are highly deserved by Dr. Newman, who loves what she does. A breast cancer survivor, she was faced last year with the question of if she is doing what she really wants. The answer? "Yes. I wouldn't change it for anything."

by Melissa Katzman Many of us enjoy watching sports, whether it's hockey on ESPN, or a soccer: game at the local playing field. But Ali Lerner doesn't just watchsports, she is involved in the games. You may know her by name around the Jewish community, but what you may not know is how active and busy she has been for the past'18 years. ' It all started when she was about four years old.

Lerner was intrigued by the art of sports and wanted to be in there too. So she picked up a basketball and began shooting. Some of the neighborhood kids joined in as well, and this was how she spent her time.

When she had perfected her four-year-old hook shot, the JCC basketball team called out her name.

Every fall, for the next six years, Lerner would begin another season of basketball practice and games.

"I learned a lot from the JCC team, especially because I was the only girl — I had to work even harder, but it was a lot of fun."

Then finally, a girls team was formed at the JCC, and along came a coach to assist with training. It was getting better by the season.

During her basketball seasons, she also spent her time on a swim team and had began taking an interest in Softball and practiced every summer on a Softball league.

"My life was so busy," Lerner recalled, "I remember going to a swim meet, changing from my suit to my softball uniform in the car, and then going right to play a game."

When she was 10, her softball team won the league championship and became a "select" team, in which she had to now make the cut to. stay on the team. Playing with the Omaha Softball Association, Lerner's summers were filled with traveling to cities all over the U.S. to compete against other young athletes like her.

With the JCC basketball team now a thing of the past,-and her middle school years in the present, Lerner took an interest-in track and field. With the .Westside Middle School Track Team, she participated in shot-put and disc throwing. She also continued with her softball team, as well as dance classes at the JCC. She entered high school doing triple season varsity sports: track, softball and basketball. Along with this came many other activities including an elite dance squad during her last two years of high school.

"Every section of life is so small, including high school. I just wanted to do it all. I set goals for myself when I was younger and I wanted to reach them." • It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be a part of so many activities, especially with schoolwork to finish, but she learned many things from being a part of these athletic teams.

"I wasn't the star Ali Lerner, at age 13, player and Iwasn't a was already involved team captain, but it in team sports. was the experience of being on a team that taught me a lot," Lerner noted. "We all had to do our part and work together.to.accomplish the goal of the team as a whole. I also got the chance to know people I wouldn't have known without the common bond we had because of the sport."

• : (Continued on page 12)

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During her senior year, Lerner's basketball team made it to the state championships, which hadn't happened for many years. It was a very exciting time for her. Now that its over for her, she reflected upon the times she had with her teams.

"It wasn't just winning or losing games that I experienced, but the relationships I formed with people.

That was the most important aspect. You can't go through life thinking that you will win at everything, and my athletic career taught me this lesson. Work hard and learn and grow from mistakes."

She now attends American University. When asked her if she planned to continue with sports in college since it's been so successful for her, she replied, "I don't think I will continue with competition sports. It was a wonderful experience for me, but I've done it already. There are so many other things out there that I have yet to experience. I can use other talents to go in other directions where I can meet new kinds of people and try new things."

In keeping an eye on her future, but still looking at her past, she has made the most put of her life so far.

from the

;

;.

high school newspaper to her leadership experiences in BBYO, it makes one exhausted just hearing about it.

"So I didn't get to do everything, but in reality, who can? Lerner asked. "At least I tried, and for me, that counts. How do you know you're good at something unless you try it? I was involved in such a range of activities in high school which gave me some insight into what I wanted to do in the future."

Among the many lessons Lerner discovered along her journey so far, she can't help but thank her parents. "I had so much going on that I never had time for a job. This meant my parents had to work extra hard so I could be able to participate in all my sports and activities. They were so supportive in all that I did and I wouldn't have been able to do it without them." .

Basketball, track, dance squad, youth groups, show choir...who can really, balance them properly without burning out?' Lerner not only balanced, but learned an important life lesson from each: "We can't always win, but if we don't try, there isn't even Reliance to wini", i.

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'Bobbi, Bobbi, Bobbi'

by Rebecca Perelman

For someone who Btarted out her career after turning 35, Bobbi Leibowitz has gone above and beyond all expectations, including her own.

Leibowitz, a Realtor with CBS Real Estate Co., has proven her inclination to go the extra mile time and again. She first noticed this innate tendency while attending the University of Maryland and it has long since carried her through her career.

"I was convinced I was going to fail, therefore I worked real hard," Leibowitz said.

Upon graduating Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Elementary Education in 1969, the Hagerstown, Maryland native taught school for a year and a half. ; Leibowitz's involvement in community affairs began in Maryland when she and a group of young women created an organization called "Infants Fight for life." They solicited grants and donated the money to SIDS research.

She came to Omaha with her husband Mike when he took a position with the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Consumed with three-year-old David, and three-month4>ld Marc, in 1976, Leibowitz started a part-time business in her home called "Damar", an invitation and stationery catalogue company. In 1977, she was offered a paid position as the first assistant to the director of the Anti-Defamation League, where she worked for over two years.

Leibowitz was an active volunteer during the time her children were young. She was on the Jewish Community Center Board of Directors for seven years, chaired the Women's Federation Campaign for one year, and a past President of the Omaha section of the National Council of Jewish Women.

In 1986 she was a co-leader of the Business Professional Campaign Division as well as cochairman of Shalom Omaha Newcomers Network, which welcomed Jewish newcomers to Omaha and assisted those who were moving out of town. She was on the Board of the University of Nebraska Hospital and Clinic Auxiliary and volunteered at

Leibowitz is currently ranked in the top 3% of elementary school.

By far the most demanding volunteer experience, area Realtors as determined by annual sales. After according to Leibowitz, was her experience with "7 she sold $1.5 million worth of real estate, she was Can Help," a consumer information 'and referral named "new associate of the year" at CBS in 1994. service that the NCJW established in conjunction She set a goal of $2 million in sales in 1985. By December, she had sold $3 million. with KETV in 1980.

Leibowitz's success did not come without long "It was a wonderful experience for me," she said. "I learned a lot as one of the co chairman of the project." hours and hard work.

"There's a lot of competition between agents, but She also credited "7 Can Help" for giving her experience in dealing with the public. She worked with all I was willing to put a lot of time and effort into it, types of people, and "thatfs what I liked most about too," she said.

At first Leibowitz spent most of her time learning it," she added. • [—•• about sales techniques, mortgages, her firm's "7 Can Help" won [. inventory of listings and the real estate market in theAk-Sar-BenCom-; general. She averaged a 60-hour workweek, seven munity Service; days a week.

Award in its first; By 1989, her sales reached $5.4 million and she year. Leibowitz was : was fifth in the company. selected as the United f, Way Volunteer of the ' "I now have a team of four and we're trying to Yearinl983. ' < run it like a business," Leibowitz said. "We're trying to get things more efficient, and to run more "If I have the smoothly, but there are always some rough edges capability, I view to smooth out." . - . ' • • volunteer work as • Her team consists of a buyer's specialist, a maran obligation, someketing specialist, and an office manager. She was thing I want to do never a goal setter in the past, but together with and feel I should her team she vowed to change her strategy. do," she said "Last year I made 55 transactions, this year I set After four years a goal of 75 transactions, and the following year I'd with "7 Can Help", like to do 100," she said.

Leibowitz considDespite Leibowitz's 95-hour work weeks, she has ered &• paying Bobbi Leibowitz still managed to take pleasure from her work. career.

"Volunteer work is great, but it's nice to get paid | "I enjoy my job most of the time," she said. "But 'just like any job there are good things and bad for doing something," she said.

A builder friend of hers suggested she try selling things about it. The good thing about it is that I real estate. Leibowitz had a negative connotation like working with all different people. The people about a real estate agent, but decided to give it a change, but what I do doesn't. It's the personalities shot after a friend encouraged her because he of the people that make it different."

With every road Leibowitz has traveled, she thought she would be a natural. j "I found the background in volunteer work really did attributes her success to her idea of "always doing help," she said.It was a good base for working with the the very best you can do at whatever it is you are doing." public and I came in contactwith so many people." .

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An 'advertised' life

by Rebecca Perelman

Where There's a Woman Women are in the home, in the office, in the store, in the car, in the classroom, in outer space and in the Bible; ; They are in the President's Cabinet, in Congress, on the school board, and on every committee from the art museum to the zoo.

Women are in blue collars and in white uniforms.

Women are in the Armed Forces and in the hearts of the families they love.

The Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha recognizes the accomplishments of all the women who make Omaha such an outstanding community a n d is grateful to t h e following women who have served on The Foundation Board of Trustees: Mimi Waldbaum'' Carol Katzman Jane Brooks * Suzanne Singer ; JoanLehr AndiKavich Darlynn Fellman Jeanette Nadoff Myra Oberman Ellen Gordman * Bobbie Epstein

•. ,;/••

:„'„

;

.

* current board members

For information on establishing an endowment fund, donor-advised fund or other funds, please call

Martin Ricks Endowment Director Jewish Federation Foundation (402)334-6440

Penny Endelman has a love for advertising and marketing that came from years of hard work and devotion. Her successful career stems from a bottoms up background that she will tell you is the best way to learn.

Born and raised in Omaha, Bndelman headed to the University of Wisconsin after graduating Central High School in 1965. After two years there, she was itching to get into the working world and came back home for about a year. A family friend got her an interview in the Advertising Department at Brandeis Department Stores and the rest is history.

Endelman started as a proof runner and production assistant and intuitively knew she had lucked into the right field. After about a year, she packed her bags and headed to Los Angeles with her close friend, Jaynie Smeerin.

Endelman knew she wanted to stay in Advertising, but that was about it.

With no car, she would have to find a job close to the bus line.

"That search took about one week," she said.

Endelman's first job was in the Advertising and Production Dept. at Liberty Records, producing the album covers for all their records.

After six months, she bought her first car and immediately went to work at a small ad agency that specialized in automotive advertising.

"My boss let me try every area of . the business," Endelman said. This is how I developed my interest in media."

• After a year-and-a-half buying print media (magazines and newspapers), she moved to "Grey", one of the largest Ad Agencies in the city, to . learn about broadcast. As a broadcast media buyer and planner at Grey, Endelman worked on national accounts like Honda Motors and Canada Dry. Twoyears later, she moved back to Omaha to marry her high school sweetheart, Randy Endelman. It only took a couple of days to secure her job at Bozell & Jacobs, where she was to spend the next 15 years buying and planning media. She eventually became the first woman account executive in their Omaha office.

She managed retail accounts like Brandeis Dept. Stores, Jerry Leonard Stores, Applause Video, etc. Her last two years were spent as an Account Supervisor overseeing and training junior account executives.

"At that time, most of my friends did not work outside the home and it was pretty hectic trying to work, spend time with my kids, and keep up with personal friendships,'' Endelman said; "but Randy was really supportive and ; changed as many diapers as I did."

Around 1988 she went to work for Mitchell Broadcasting (Sweet. 98 and then start up station KKAR) as their

Penny Endelman Marketing and Promotions Director.

"It was probably the most fun I've ever had on a job, but the hours could be long with lots of nights and weekends for station promotions," she said.

After four years, she decided it was time to cut back her hours and has "worked part time for the last six years as the Media Director for Zaiss & Company, an advertising, marketing and research firm.

"I feel like I have the best of both worlds now," Endelman said.

She always tried to save a little time for involvement in the community. Endelman is currently in her second' term on the Omaha Public Schools Foundation Board, serving as Vice-president. She has worked with Radio Talking Books, United Way, and the Heart Association. She recently co-chaired the National Council of Jewish Women educational program, "Protecting Our Financial Self", and spent several years on the Jewish Press board.

She has chaired the JCC Camp Committee and was Publicity Chair for a Temple Israel Fashion Show Fundraiser. At Columbian School, she worked on the Foreign Language Committee and was a Publishing Center weekly volunteer.

Her husband, Randy, an attorney, is vice-president and Manager of the Personal Trust Services Department of Norwest Bank Nebraska. They have two children, Jamie, a senior at the State University of New York's Fashion Institute of Technology in < New York City, and Tony, a sophomore at Burke High School.

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Ally Milder grew up in Omaha, went to Benson High, The University of Nebraska at Omaha, and Creighton Law School.

Until she was in college, she was a registered Democrat, but during her undergraduate years, she developed a curiosity about Jews who live in Russia. She was curious about what might have happened to Jews like her grandparents, the late Morris and Betty Milder, if they hadn't come to the United States before the Holocaust. She wanted more information about the Refuseniks and people who couldn't leave the Soviet Union.

Her election came at the same time of the implementation of LB 922, a law which requires multicultural education. School districts were directed to develop their own programs based on the guidelines ofthe law.

This 30-member advisory committee divided into task forces to work on recommendations to the State Board of Education. Districts began incorporating multicultural studies in 1993. While she served, the state department of education designed an "authentic assessment system to assess student cultural awareness and sensitivity" every five years.

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, : • - . -

First Lady Barbara Bush, right, displays a Tsbirt stating "Millie for Milder" referring to the Bush's dog and their support for the candidacy.of Ally Milder, left, who was running for the Second Congressional Seat in 1990.

Because of her great curiosity, Ally decided to visit Russia with Omahan, Shirley Goldstein. This trip made a big impression on the young woman, and helped' to mold plans for her life. She decided to find out what was needed in order for Americans to help Russian Jews come to the United States.

Every Refusenik who Ally met considered Republicans more helpful. Republicans were viewed, according to Milder, as people who wouldn't back down on defense. Russians' considered' this an important issue.

It was after this trip that Milder switched her party affiliation and became a Republican. She thought that if Americans were viewed as weak, the Russian government would take advantage of ; them. After her trip to Russia, Milder decided that she was going to devote a substantial amount of time to the effort offreeingSoviet Jews.

The trip made me wonder where I would have been if my grandparents hadn't left Russia when they did," she said, noting that this experience made her decide to become involved in politics.

In 1981, Milder moved to Washington and became chief counsel to Senator Charles Grassley on the Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee. This committee handles much of the legislation that goes through the Senate.

Senator Grassley became a mentor for her. She said, "He taught me what it meant to be a good representative. He inspired me to run for office on my own."

It was during this time that she helped to establish an international parliamentary group for human rights in the Soviet Union.

Shirley Goldstein said, "I know that I could have * never done the work that I did to help to free Russian Jews if it hadn't been for Ally. She even convinced Senator Grassley to go to Russia with her. This was a tremendous help with the Russian government!"

Milder came back to Nebraska in 1988 and was unsuccessful in her bid for the nomination for the 2nd Congressional Seat. She tried again in 1990 and did receive the Republican nomination. She lost in the general election to Peter Hoagland who held that seat until 1994 when he lost to Republican Jon Christensen.

In 1993, she was elected to the State Board of Education. ', v "I think that we did some significant things while I was on the State Board of Education,

Barbara Bush visited Omaha in l'KIH tin a fundraiser for Milder^ congressioiml i.« < Particularly things haying to do with reading Mm dards," Milder said. : •: • She iff cfarrently president of Synhorst, Milili i and Associates, an organization which does c> ill tion building. She and her firm are currently v i rl ing on the petition drive organized by Citizen 1< i Nebraska's Future. The petition, which recciM >1 184,000 signatures, would maintain tax revenues at current levels.

She noted, "Things can't continue to to on the way we've been going the past several years. We have an unsustainable rate of increase. We have a surplus of tax revenues in the coffers."

This would be a constitutional amendment which will likely appear on the November ballot.

"This petition would limit spending with room for inflation; it's a moderate approach which wouldn't cut current programs," she added. "It merely says that we can't continue to increase budgets like we have in the past.'

"If people can work somewhere else where their property taxes are half of what they are here, why should they come to Nebraska?

Seniors can't stay in their homes because they can't pay property taxes."

Natalie Peetz, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce says, "Ally brings a unique perspective to whatever the given situation. Her dynamic personality and ambition make her a respect-ed member of the Omaha Community.

"Ally is a person who cares about people, but also cares about the future of the State of Nebraska which makes working with her a positive experience," she added.

Her law firm consults with political candidates, does fundraising, does grassroots lobbying for trade associations and individuals, and organizes around various issues. , : "We do coalition building, petition drives, and we become involved in anything going through congress or the Nebraska Legislature," Milder concluded. "This is the way that I've chosen to help people!"

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75 Vtqis it Going Strong!

556-6536 ffi This page tutnldliod by (he Jowlth Fodorntlon ol Omaha

September 18,1998 " ; > • • • • ;'"17.'J : • " .

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'Wishing the Community a an eaningfu

Page 17

Page 18 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

by Caren Friedman

Ozzie Nogg is a "bright chick," in more ways than one. A member of the storytelling ensemble, Five Bright Chicks, she has been a part of the entertainment world since the age of four. At that time, a box was necessary to boost young Ozzie to the talent show microphone. A few feet taller and dozens of performances later, Nogg continues her passion for the arts.

The stories that the Five Bright Chicks tell are of a personal nature. As one of two Jewish members of the group, Nogg's stories primarily focus on her life as a Jewish woman. Her appeal, however, is not limited to Jewish audiences. People of all cultures have identified with Nogg's stories. In fact, after a performance in which she spoke about her grandmother, a young Chinese boy commented that the woman she had described was like his own grandmother. The universal nature of her stories allows listeners to connect with her.

Indeed, a storyteller and her listeners become a "give and take" team. Nogg appreciates that in storytelling, she can see the audience's facial reactions. She is "in it together with the listeners," as their immediate responses often shape the way she proceeds with her story.

This sharing relationship is not something she felt when performing in other media. She notes that storytelling is much different from her activity at the Omaha Community Playhouse, where actors do not see the audience.

Her days at the Playhouse were extremely pleasurable and memorable for Mrs. Nogg. She was a chorus member in The Pajama Game, her first performance at that venue. She remembers having "the time of (her) life" as part of the cast. Other playhouse shows include Barefoot in the Park, Bye Bye Birdie, Macbeth, and Apple Tree.

The latter is the show that Nogg feels was most rewarding.

"Nothing could compare with that experience," she said.

In Apple Tree's series of three one-acts, she had the opportunity to play a variety of characters, from wistful to strong to humorous. She remembers being so fulfilled from those performances that had they been her last, she would have been content.

Apple Tree was not her.last stow, however, and Nogg continued to explore otheT-ureas'of the arts.

One highlight was co%Hting,r30^ an award-winning review of the years 1930--.1939, which was presented in the Playhouse Studio.Theitet-'.^Nogg also appeared on the stages of tfeChariticleerand the J e w i s h Community __ Center. i In the late j 1960s, she 1 took her talents into business with Eunice Denenberg, as partners in their own advertising agency.

Named for their mutual birth date, Gemini" Advertising Ozzie Nogg Ink was up and running for nearly 20 years.

Here, Nogg was able to direct her creativity into writing and producing ads for radio, TV and print.

Her voice could be recognized around town when she did voice-overs for both radio and television.

She currently does freelance voice-overs and copy writing for other agencies.

Nogg's words were also read in the J e w i s h P r e s s for a number of years, the Spice in our Sacred Seasons w a s h e r Jewish holiday column that combined research together with family memories.

• Her monthly column in the Jewish P r e s s was occasionally picked up by other Jewish newspapers, including those in Baltimore, Atlanta, San Diego, Detroit, Chicago, and Phoenix.

After exploring print media, "storywriting turned into storytelling," and now Nogg finds pleasure in Five Bright Chicks. She has had the opportunity to tell her stories at a variety of places, including the Blue Barn Theater and the annual Storytelling Festival.

As part of this year's festival, she was able to spend three days with Peninah Schram, a leading Jewish storyteller. One message that Nogg took from Schram iB that one need not start storytelling at a young age in order to succeed.

At a time when she regretted not beginning her storytelling career sooner, Nogg realized that with continued "strength, energy, interest, and curiosity," she could still pursue her new goals. Older women whom she has met have been an inspiration to her in her transition to storytelling.

In the face of her numerous successes, Nogg recalls a few humbling experiences that kept her in check.

One such experience happened during her performance in Sweet Charity on the JCC stage.

Admitting that her role required complicated dance moves beyond her talent, Nogg said that her run in Sweet Charity was the "epitome of overreaching."

She said that while she was upset by her less than outstanding reviews, she deserved them, and the whole experience waB good for her.

"There are times in one's life where you can go along and think how special you are...and we are special...when something happens to remind you not to get too full of yourself," she said.

Sweet Charity aside, Nogg's passion for the arts have led her to dazzle her audiences, whether it be on stage, radio, or in print.

Nogg said that it is only with the love and support of her husband Don that she was able to be as involved as she was in the arts. She was raising four children while simultaneously performing on stage, and says that without Don's help, she never could have done it. Her four children, Kathy Halleran of Seattle, Marsha Nogg, Rachel Pichik, and Tony Nogg of Omaha plus then- partners, and her three grandchildren, remain an integral part of her life.

Surprisingly, after all of her years in the industry, Nogg still feels "total irrational stress" prior to performing on stage. Her anxiety and stomach aches weeks before a show often make her question why she does what she does; however, the incredible feeling she has upon completion of a performance reminds her that it is worth the stress.

Whether it be for work or for pleasure, Nogg truly loves what she does "I can't help myself. I can't seem not to do it....whatever the 'it' may be."

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September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 19

An ..example for her daughters

by Joan K, Marcus

Jane Glazer Rips belonged to the Temple Youth Group in Sioux City, Iowa, because she said that it was an opportunity for her to be involved in her Temple and to meet other Jewish teenagers.

It was also a way for her to travel around the Midwest and make lifelong friendships, During one of those trips, she met Omahan Harlan Rips and they became Mends first, husband and wife later.

She recalled, "It was a time to be involved, to have fun, and to experience joyous Judaism. It was a wonderful, nurturing environment in which to grow up."

Rips recalls growing up in the late '60s when the whole world was in turmoil. Being a member of the youth group was the beginning of her involvement in Jewish volunteerism.

"If I hadn't been so involved in Temple Youth Group, I don't think that I'd take the active part in Temple and the Union of American Congregations that I do today."

Harlan and Jane were married in 1982 and came to Omaha to live. Since she had been a member of the Junior League in Chicago where she had been living, she transferred her membership to Omaha and began her career in volunteerism!

In 1984, when Phyllis Glazer was president of Temple, she invited Rips to sit on the Board of Trustees.

"I was young and I didn't have lots of experience, so I agreed to serve," she said and served willingly on various committees, doing whatever she was \ asked to do.

Rips remembers that one of her most exciting jobs was when she was asked to be part of the search committee when Rabbi Aryeh Azriel was hired in 1988.

"We made an immediate connection with Rabbi Azriel. We all felt the energy and enthusiasm that he would bring to the job. Marty Lehr and Jim Farber chaired the committee, and we were all impressed with Aryeh. When you run across these kind of people, you immediately recognize that they are the best one for YOUR congregation.".

Rips noted that she has tried to be a 'generalisf at Temple Israel. She has tried to learn everything that she could. She served on the budget committee, youth activities committee, and wherever else she was needed. She decided that, when she became president of the congregation, she wanted to be well prepared. She believes that she should-

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Rips recited the kiddush at a recent national board meeting of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. n't talk unless she knows what she's talking about!

"The bottom line is that I love Temple Israel," Rips stated. "It isn't just a volunteer experience.

Temple is home for my family, a place for learning and growth for us.

"My mission is very selfish because, the more that I did.at Temple and the more involved that I became, the. better it was for my family," she added. "Everything that we do at Temple is preceded by services and a religious component.

Temple is, first and foremost, an organization devoted to making Jews."

Rips cites her recent experience in the Adult B'nai Mitzvah class as the most glorious experience of her life. She enjoyed attending the weekly class and being mentally challenged.

"What could be more exciting than learning to read from the Torah? The experience pf being taught Torah was the most uplifting experience that Fve ever had. That's at the heart of why I love being involved with Temple and the UAHC." She says there is such a national movement to put Torah at the center of our lives and to make reform Temples welcoming and warm institutions.

Reform Judaism was more formal when she was growing up. She enjoys the opportunity to participate in the Jewish experience.

Rips became president of Temple in 1995. During her tenure, construction began, enlarging the administrative area and building additional meeting rooms.

Accessibility to the building from the south was improved. The administrative wing was added to the north and east of the original building.

Rips was also elected president of the Midwest Council of UAHC and named Program Chair of the 1999 UAHC National Biennial Convention. She now sits on the UAHC National Board and its Executive Committee.

Also during her tenure, Temple was invited to participate in the Synagogue 2000 program. This is -a national program for reform and conservative synagogues that is designed to make them better places for the year 2000 and beyond.

"We were very honored and we worked hard to be chosen as one of the seven synagogues from the Reform movement," Rips noted. .

"This is a work and study program which was started with 25 people. We've worked for two years, and now we're going to spread out and begin Jewish Journey Groups. These will be groups of people who are at the same place in their Jewish Journey.

"Synagogue 2000 is designed to help people attend the synagogue and participate," Rips added.

- The group is attempting to find a newer way for the next 50 years.

"It was a great honor to be president of Temple Israel. I was the third woman named president, (after Joanie Lehr and Phyllis Glazer) and I was honored to be able to set an example for my daughters, Sara, 12, and Anne, 9," Rips said. "I want them to know that women can be involved in synagogue life, stand before the congregation, and read from the Torah.

"I learned from my parents, Helen and Milt Glazer. They were incredible, committed volunteers," she recalled. "They both felt very strongly that you cannot exist totally for yourself. This is the example I want to set for Sara and Anne."

Jane Rips and her daughter, Anne.

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Page 20 Jewish Pr^gs t jjmaha,NE September 18,1998

Getting through the political maze

by Joan K. Marcus

Toba Cohen remembers when Senator Edward (Ted) Kennedy made a run for the presidency in 199p. Her parents, Jack E. and Jane Cohen, picked her up at field hockey practice, and they said, "There are some people here from the Kennedy Campaign and they want to meet with us to see how: they can get connected into the Jewish Community. You're coming along!"

Since 1980, Cohen has worked on 14 political campaigns, four of them presidential. She realized early on that she was participating because she was a member of the Jewish community, because she was a Democrat, and because she was bringing a younger population into the election.

"I've worked on elections for city council, mayor, governor, senate, and president. I think the thing that appeals to me the most is the fact that grassroots efforts can make a big difference," she said. "What I love about t h e Democratic Party is that you have the opportunity to be so inclusive."

Since 1994, Cohen has been employed at the office of United States Senator J. Robert Kerrey. In 1997, she was cited for her work with the Immigration and Naturalization Service. She received this award during the National Methamphetamine Conference in Sen. Kerrey's office. She has worked to develop a unique relationship between a congressional office and the INS. She also helped bring programs here to Nebraska which will assist immigrants. She considers her work to be community relations which will help change the way in which government serves the people.

Cohen is particularly interested in immigration because her grandparents, Meyer and Tillie Cohen, came to the United States from Romania in 1903."

"I'm interested in new immigrants because of the plight of my grandparents. They came over on a boat and never spoke English," she said. "My father had such great pride because of his roots

Toba Cohen received an award from INS officials in the office of Sen. Robert Kerrey, left. that it made an impression on me," she added.

Cohen speaks fondly of her father and the stories he told her about his childhood. Jack, who died in 1994, told her what it was like to grow up in a Jewish ghetto in St. Louis. He related stories about the power of immigrants and instilled in her the idea of political grassroots. iv- .

Jane and Jack taught the grassroots of Judaism to both of their children, Toba, and her brother, Michael. They taught them that you need to help other people in order to be good Jews. Michael decided to help by becoming a doctor; she chose politics!

Cohen explained that her mother was her first female role model.

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mother could raise a family, be a speech pathologist and teach, and still be a leader in the Jewish community," she said. "There was a generational difference in age between my parents, but there was also a commonality. They both remembered World War II and the Great Depression."

She had a wonderful childhood because of the. lessons which were taught to her by her parents.

She was always taught that there was a difference between a want and a need!

In 1978, Cohen celebrated her Bat Mitzvah at Beth Israel Synagogue. She studied her haftorah for a year with Rabbi Isaac Nadoff and Cantor Leo Fettman.

She was the first Bat Mitzvah in the family.

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September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 21

Getting through the political maze (Continued from page 20) "They always say that, with your Bat Mitzvah you're becoming a woman, but with me, it opened my eyes to the world and increased my interest in politics," Cohen remembered thinking.

When she graduated from BrownellTalbot High School in 1984, her mother took her to Israel, Egypt, and Greece. Seeing the Holocaust Memorial had a tremendous impact on her life.

Cohen graduated from Creighton University in 1989 with a degree in History and Theology and a minor in Chemistry. She is now pursuing Master's Degrees in Public Administration and Administrative Social Work. She believes that her job is partially having to do with Social Work because she wants to make services more effective for people.

After graduation, she went to work for United States Senator Jim Exon in his Washington, DC office. She worked on taxation and budget policy until 1994 when Senator Kerrey offered her a job and she moved back to Omaha.

One of her great interests is reforming Social Security. One of the big questions right now is how we can make Social Security last for future generations.

"Sen. Kerrey brought the public and private sectors together to work out a plan. When baby boomers retire, there will be more people taking money out of the system than putting in," she added.

•by Diane Axler Baum

"We have ".to do something- itfV order to change the system-^itheV we r^ise;the retirement age pi^do some things tHat people don't want to talk about," '•'/. v-•* , Cohen names Bob Kerrey as another one of her role models. .

"People said that if he touched Social Security, he'd never get reelected in 1994," Cohen stated emphatically. "He made it his issue and he was one of the few Democrats to get reelected."

Because of Sen. Kerrey, Cohen hopes to be part of the group that makes incremental changes to make Social Security last. She gathers together groups all over Nebraska to talk about the problems.

Immigration law has fascinated her.

She pointed out that "it's what our country was founded upon. We need to figure out how to promote legal immigration."

She is particularly interested in the Janie Murow, left, and Marilyn Konigsberg are the iVT and '<T in their coffee business, MJ Java. work of Omahan Shirley Goldstein.

When they established their "special- vored coffees, espresso-based drinks, "I played with Russian children and this is my earliest recollection of what ty coffee" business five years ago, tea, hot chocolate, and iced Italian immigration really means!" she recalled. Marilyn Konigsberg and Janie Murow sodas and also offers "coffee-comple"Constituents can be anywhere—as set a high goal — to provide freshly mentary food items," such as bagels, long as they have some tie to Nebraska. brewed coffee in as many spots as pos- muffins, and sandwiches. The downFamily reunification is family preserva- sible throughout Omaha and maintain town store doubles as headquarters for the wholesale facility. tion," Cohen said. "Doing this kind of utmost standards of quality control.

Today, Omaha coffee drinkers One important aspect of their work is a very rewarding experience and there aren't a lot of congressional equate their company name, MJ Java, wholesale expansion is the offering offices where they work directly with with a superior bean and brew. But of licensing agreements to food serretail was only the beginning. More vice operators such as the two MJ families.

"If we can help in some way with legal recent is their wholesale operation, Java kiosks which provide the focal immigration, we're going to do it," which includes bean roasting, equip- point of food service at Eppley Airfield. In the near future, they Cohen concluded. "I believe that gov- ment distribution and consulting.

The main MJ Java store, located on intend to offer licensing agreeernment is the greatest thing we have on earth and we can never stop trying the ground floor of the Landmark ments regionally. "We pride our(Continued on page 22) Building, features specialty and flato improve it!"

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(Continued from page 21) selves on the full range of our work- from roasting to serving," says Murow; "It's the range' that separates us from everybody else," adds Konigsberg.

MJ Java operates several kiosks: at Baker's Supermarket, Eagle Run; at Methodist and Bergan Mercy Hospitals; and two at Offut Airforce Base.

Their coffee is also sold in heat-sealed bags from the shelves of several supermarket chains, including Bag 'n' Save, Hy-Vee, and Baker's.

"We've changed people's taste from 'out of the can' to 'in the bag*," commented Murow.

Murow recalls that the "specialty coffee" business came to her attention with the advent of Starbucks and a number of smaller roasters, and she earmarked it as an enterprise of the future. (The distinguishing characteristic of "specialty coffee," slie explained, is the arabica bean, grown at higher elevation and superior in flavor and taste to the more common robusta bean.)

Then came the day when she and her husband, Allan, were vacationing in Virginia and stopped into a delightful coffee house. There the idea struck - "This would work in Omaha!" She called Konigsberg to discuss the possibility, and many conversations later they sealed their partnership.

Numerous factors led to the merger. After 14 years in a Chicago suburb, Murow liked the thought of returning to family and raising children here. (Her parents are Omahans Merle and Ruthie Potash.) She knew that her background in marketing and sales complemented Konigsberg's experience in advertising and the medfaY Moreover, she and Konigsberg~her mother's sister—considered this "a once in a lifetime opportunity to work together," Konigsberg said.

Looking back on the earliest years, Konigsberg remembers the courage and determination that got them through.

"There's no education that can prepare you for a start-up business," she said. "When we began, there was no model. We drew on our own past experience; and' often we went 'seat of the pants'."

They joined the Specialty Coffee Association and started attending trade shows.

• •• Now they share a sense of pride in what they've accomplished. Konigsberg says it gives her particular pleasure to know that "someone gets comfort from bur coffee while waiting in a hospital... that someone else will have a cup of our coffee to fill a 'delay at the airport."

MJ Java is something of a family affair for Murow, whose husband, a financial and real estate consultant, handles all the financial work and accounting. Daughter Rebecca,14, their eldest, even helped solve a recent computer glitch. In addition, employee relations and decision-making issues serve Murow as "teaching tools" for all three kids.

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by Joan K. Marcus When Helen Cook Epstein was a little girl, she used to sit on the front porch of her grandparents' house in Denver and listen as her zayde, Reverend Mendel Marylander, would teach Hebrew and Torah to Bar Mitzvah boys.

"He was very patient with the boys. Most of these kids didn't want to be there — especially in the summer!" she recalled. "My grandfather was tolerant and patient as he prepared these boys for their Bar Mitzvahs. I decided that I wanted to be just like him.

I wanted to be a teacher."

Helen's desire to be a teacher continued when she enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as an education major. Her teaching career was put on hold when she met and married Omaha musician Tuffy Epstein. They were married in 1957, and it looked as though she would put her teaching ambitions on hold to become a wife and mother.

When her daughter, Danielle, was in preschool at Beth El Synagogue, Epstein renewed her interest in teaching when she became a substitute teacher at the preschool. She also became a Sunday school teacher at Beth El because she couldn't forget her desire to teach.

'

In spite of long hours with the business, Murow says she makes time to assist occasionally in her children's classrooms and to oversee homework and religious school studies. In the midst of constant challenges, she notes, "producing a fine product is what keeps me going;" , Before becoming an entrepreneur, Konigsberg raised two sons with her husband, Dr. Harvey Konigsberg, a urologist. When the boys were young she was an active volunteer with National'Council for Jewish Women and a member of the Jewish Press board. Later she returned to school to complete a Master's Degree in Communications and did a sixyear stint as Public Affairs Director for WOWT. The business leaves little tune for serious volunteer work now, but Murow and'Konigsberg make their contribution in other ways. MJ Java participates in the Omaha Symphony's coupon card,: appears in the Entertainment Book, and inakesits product available to many non-profit events, such as silent auctions. The business was a Bponsor of the JOCs Israel 50 Fun Run and donates ciJfted to special events at Beth El Synagogue. ' - ^ •'•: ~r Beth El's Rabbi Paul Drazen, an MJ Java fan, is planning to supervise the production of Kosher for Passover coffee in time for Pesach, 1999. To Miirow, this is one of the countless little differences that has earned their business its distinction.

"We grew it from a seed," she smiles, "and now we have a garden."

Helen Epstein When the new Jewish Community Center opened in 1974, Helen and Tuffy were taking a tour and they went through the preschool. Helen and Phyllis Wasserman decided that day that they would apply to teach in the new preschool.

"I was hired as an assistant to Phyllis, Janet Rosenstein, and Jessie Rasmussen," she remembered. "I loved the children and teaching'and I h a d n ' t t h o u g h t about going back to get my degree. However, Jessie, who was: the director of the preschool a t the time, told me that I was wasting my time being an assistant, and that I s h o u l d g o b a c k t o s c h o o l . " v .. •y : '*"i - . , . • .•', •';•'.-

Back she went, to the.TJniversity of NebraskaOmaha in 1976, and, : in 1980,, she. received her degree in education with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education. Epstein was now ready to be a real teacher and returned.to,the JCC Preschool and taught there until 1986. She also substitute . taught for the MOlard and Omaha Public Schools ; duringthistime..'

. < . . ' • , ' . ' • ' • ' - . . . •• • ^•:--1.' • > . v 1 - • . - • " ' • • ' , •

. In 1986, Epstein fulfilled her dream and began . teaching kindergarten at Mountview Elementary School. Alter the first yeaiyshe switched to second grade, a position she retained for ten years! During this time, she taught many children who were newcomers to America. She developed an interest in English as a Second Language in the classroom.

(Continued on page 23) .

September 18,1898 Jewish Press, Omaha, NB Pago 2$ (Continued from page 22) Because of her interest in children from foreign countries, Epstein returned to.UNO and became accredited in teaching ESL. She then moved to Indian-Hill School where she teaches kindergarten children from Prance, Laos, Vietnam, and those of Hispanic heritage.

"Those are the kids that you really see learn.

They're all motivated and curious. Their parents value education and they pass these values on to the kids. Like our Jewish parents and grandparents who were immigrants, they know that, if they are to succeed in America, they must have the education," she explained.

It's interesting to be a teacher in the Omaha Public Schools. She is sometimes concerned by the lack of sensitivity to Judaism,by her fellow teachers and the administration. She cites small things such as having to "make up" time taken off for the high holidays. Nevertheless, she loves working with children.

"It's an exciting profession because I love to see children learn," she said.

She has always enjoyed working with the parents of her students.

"I've never encountered a parent who doesn't want their child to learn. I remember one time

that I discovered a child had been abused. Child Protective Services was called and the police came to school and took her to a foster home.

Because of what we. had done, the parent had therapy and the child retuned to the home," she noted. "That's why I love, working with kids.

Every day is different. Some of my children couldn't speak English at the beginning of the year, but by the time school ended in the spring, they could speak well! This makes me proud.

It was difficult for her when she first began teaching in the public schools. She came from the warm, safe environment at the JCC where she only taught about Jewish holidays to an entirely different situation. She only teaches what is necessary about Christian holidays and makes it possible for students to learn about these holidays from an historical point of view.

She is particularly proud of her daughters who have inherited some of her skills. Dr. Marti Epstein is an Associate Professor of Music at Berklee College of Music in Boston (and was featured in a Where are they now? column in this paper), "My other daughter, Danielle Epstein, is a senior associate at a leading high tech public relations agency in Palo Alto, California," Epstein said. "I'm proud of her because of her communication skills."

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Jodi Slusky, left, and her mother, Harriet Eishel, areplanning Slusky's wedding to Yoav GershonL When Jodi Slusky graduated from the University ment public awareness campaign which focuses on of Texas, she already knew that she wanted to the first three years of life.

Recent research has proven that a child's brain make a legitimate difference in the world. She wasn't sure what was. ahead of her, but she knew develops to ninety percent of it's potential before that she would be involved in "important worldly the third birthday. Reiner decided to do a grassroots campaign in order to educate the public about / i s s u e s . " ••/ •, - • ' " • ' ' . ,...:.- So, it didn't surprise anyone when she went to these early years. Slusky worked with organizawork as a staff assistant in the office of United tions and companies to creatively develop ways in States Senator J. Robert Kerrey. In this job, she order to reach families. • t i She will soon begin a project which will be sponwas the first voice of communication to constituents, lobbyists, and the general public. Slusky sored by the American Association of Health Plans. answered mail, coordinated tour requests for con- Her firm has been hired to take the whole idea of stituents,, and took cafe of phone calls.-She knew Managed Care and bring it back to the public in from the very beginning that she wanted to live in the positive way that it was originally presented.

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Slusky cites her mother, Harriet Pishel, as part Slusky came back to Omaha in 1994 and became co-field director for Sarpy County when Senator of the reason for her recent successes.

Kerrey ran for re-election. She coordinated a "get "My mother is very passionate about everything out the vote" effort'and organized.grassroots sup- she does, and she instilled this feeling in me. It port and implemented nightly polling and orga- never mattered to Mom what it was-work, or movnized volunteer efforts with the Belleviie area. She ing to anew city," Slusky said. "She taught me to helped to win the election by creating the strategic go out and search for what I wanted/" •: ' • • placement of signs'and advertisements.

• She said being Jewish has given her a sense of • person because ' In 1994,' Slusky returned to Capitol Hill and tradition. She feels like a stronger ; : . - • began working for the Democratic'Senatorial of her heritage. , . Campaign' Committee.' She worked with furidrais"Because of the way in which I was raised, I feel in'g and event planning to raise money for comfortable living in Washington," she added. "My: Democratic candidates. dad, Jeny Slusky, gave me very strong, traditional • For the past three years, Slusky has worked at Jewish values. These values will always be with me.

"My parents taught me not to be afraid. They the political consulting firm of Greer, Margolis, Mitchell, Burns and Associates. She works on sen-. taught me that; if I had the right work ethic, the atorial campaigns,'gubernatorial campaigns, does rest would come. They kept telling me that I would strategic consulting for several labor unions and figure out how to get things done;" Slusky concluded. "They always had confidence in me that I would • health care organizations.

Jodi has been instrumental in organizing the "I accomplish my goal. So far, they've been right."

She says that she has never tried to impress onyAm Your Child Campaign" for Hollywood director Rob Reiner. This is an early childhood develop- one-except herself!

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A young woman who loves Nebraska

by Joan K. Marcus

Alison Kutler began her political career in 1991, only two years after she graduated from Westside High School. She received a six-week internship in the Washington office of Nebraska Congressman Peter Hoagland. She ended up working there for nearly two years while she finished school at Georgetown University.

She will be a lawyer in June of 1999 when she graduates from Stanford Law School. Presently, Kutler is on leave from Stanford while she works as a White House Aid in the office of the Vice-president and Office of Public Liaison in Washington, D.C. Paul Landow, former manager of Hoagland's district office in Omaha, said, "Alison is exceptionally bright with an intense interest in public service."

Landow, now a professor of Political Science, went on to say that he thinks Alison will be able to go as far as she wants in politics. He assumes that she will someday be a governor or United States Senator.

In 1992, she took a semester off from school to join President Clinton's presidential campaign. She helped build crowds for his campaign stops. She was the youngest person and the only woman doing the job full time. After a month in Little Rock, AK, she was on the road from Labor Day until the election.

Kutler said her longest night of sleep was three hours. Even so, she says so far, this was the best three months of her life!

In spite of her tremendous success in Washington, she is reluctant to speak of her past.

"Right now, a little of the future is unclear," Kutler noted. "What I've been trying to do is lay the groundwork so I can contribute more down the road. I definitely want to move back to Nebraska • and I want to get involved in public service."

In October of 1993, she moved to the Commerce Department, and four months later, she became confidential assistant to Secretary Ronald H. Brown. She helped plan the G-7 Jobs Conference in Detroit, a three-day summit which involved 28

trade ministers.

Ron Brown put her in positions of responsibility a person her age had never handled. She traveled extensively as Brown's advance representative and planned and implemented international conferences for Brown and the White House.

Although most of Kutler's success can be attributed to the fact that she is usually smarter than any- Ron Brown, then Secretary of Commerce, welcomed Sandy Kutler, left, to the one else at a office where he and Allison Kutler, right, worked on trade issues. meeting, she claims that a great deal of her success She added that her parents, and grandparents, can be attributed to her parents, Sandy and Stuart were always rearranging their lives to help her Kutler. ., and her sister.

"I have the best family in the world and I think Sandy Kutler, a psychotherapist, said of her that has enabled me to do what I want to do. My daughter^ "I'm proud to be Alison's mother. I'm parents always let me try what I wanted to try and proud of her accomplishments, but mostly I admire . they let me figure things out on my own. They her as a person. I have never seen Alison do somenever forced me to do things I didn't want to do," thing professionally solely to advance her career. she stated.

She demonstrates the highest levels of integrity and "They never pressured me and I guess they fig- honesty as well as a genuine commitment to conured that sooner or later I would discover the right tribute to society. I'm so glad she's my daughter!' answer and learn from the experience."

(Continued on page 25)

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A young woman who loves Nebraska (Continued from page 24) Kutler thinks the Jewish community in Omaha is clearly different from other cities in which she has lived. She cites funding which is provided for youngsters to go to Israel and other educational opportunities which are provided in Omaha. She started in JCC preschool, belonged to BBYO, went on the first AKTZA trip, and was active a t Temple Israel during her very young years.

Her future plans include running for political office in Nebraska. She'd rather be in state government than in Washington. She likes day-to-day contact with everyday people and feels there's a lot more responsibility to being a mayor or a governor.

"When you're a member of CongresB, you're part of a big body," Kutler added. "You're not held responsible for the way things happen."

Although Kutler does want to eventually return to Nebraska, she says there is a strong possibility that she will work in the 2000 presidential campaign for Vice-president Al Gore if he receives the Democratic nomination for president.

"I think he would be a tremendous president!" she said.

Kutler says she feels very fortunate to have had such wonderful opportunities early in her career.

She values the fact that she has made a difference in people's lives—more than any of her accomplishments.

She added, "My goal is always the same. I want to use my skills and abilities to improve the lives of people who are not able to help themselves. I t doesn't matter to me if I work on a major policy issue that affects millions of Americans-or if I take the time to listen to one person!"

by Bert Lewis The name at the top. of the curriculum vita reads Susan Alpert Drazen. The information contained on this page tells the reader all the significant information regarding the educational and professional background of the lady..

It mentions her first entrance into the halls of higher learning, at the University of Wisconsin in 1972, and her departure in 1975, with Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education.

Also, the reader is informed of graduate studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America for a Master of Arts Degree in Jewish Education.

Additionally, it lists employment experience, which starts with camp counselor 26 years ago and finishes with her most recent position, Executive Director, Bureau-of Jewish Education, (now known as Jewish Educational, and; Library Services). Next month, she will become the Executive Director for Central States and Provinces Region for United Synagogues for Conservative Judaism.

From this data, it's possible to draw some conclusions. The most obvious is that she was certainly formally prepared to carve out her own place in the discipline which combines religion and learning.

Every job she has ever held, from the earliest as a youngster to the present day, has had some connection with either religion or education, or both; this is clearly seen as the ever present guiding force of her life.

All of this works well as background information, but it really doesn't give any insight into exactly who she is. To really know her, if s a good idea to find a comfortable chair in a quiet place, put a tall glass of iced tea by her side! and say "talk to me Susie."

The real person soon emerges and the reward is a warm smile and a simple statement: "I'm a midwesterner." From there, she begins to tell about her family, her childhood, her grandparents and great-grandparents and a single event which gave her life specific direction.

Soon there is a clear picture of the Alpert house-

hold in Sheboygan, WI, complete with one set of grandparents under the same roof and another set in nearby Milwaukee. The difficulties of leading a Jewish life in a small town were, according to Drazen, never a problem.

"I was raised on the philosophy that while its not easy to be Jewish, it's worth the trouble!" she noted.

Drazen invokes the loving memories of her late grandparents and holidays spent with them, always in the most traditional fashion, as she adds "I always loved the Jewish stuff." No matter what the subject or how far she digresses, the conversation goes back to how it was in her parents' home.

She explains all about her father's grocery store and the way every member of the family was involved in it, in some way. It soon is clear, this was a very closely knit family, bound together with generous portions of love and laughter and one more important component - religious observance.

Drazen enjoys telling about going to camp....a Jewish camp.

"Camp Ram ah changed my entire outlook of everything Jewish," Drazen said.

She was put off at first, by the fact that Hebrew was spoken instead of English, by the fact that everything about the camp was religion oriented and of the realization, after being there for a while, that it wasn't so bad. In fact, she soon slipped into the routine, and understood she wanted to be a part of it all.

Drazen feels that her first experience at camp Raman made her more aware of and more "in tune" with her religion. She speaks of loving the sound of davening and remembers wanting to do it too. She always had loved the rituals but they seemed to take on more meaning now. She heard some Yiddish and said, "at home they didn't necessarily speak Yiddish, but I always heard it and loved the sounds of the words."

She went back the next year, and every year after that until she became old enough to be a counselor.

(Continued on page 26)

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The Drazen family: Rabbi Paul l>i ti/rn, Susu-. Yoni mid (i (Continued from page 25) In the midst of describing her deepest emotions "I was on staff there air through my college regarding this work with children, something trigyears," Drazen added.

'-''•' gers a memory and suddenly, she is telling about She still goes to Camp Ramah.'tmly now she goes yet another happy time in Sheboygan, when she as an educator for several weeks every camp sea- was surrounded by her family. son. She and her husband of 21 years, Rabbi Paul No matter the topic, ultimately this woman Drazen (spiritual leader of Beth El Synagogue), harks back to her beginnings. To special holidays work with the staff, helping them sharpen skills, and observances especially. Then she tells about and work with families of campers who come to Passover, and how it's her favorite holiday and visit and participate. She claims ifs not all work - how much she always loved it. that it's a time to "re-charge our batteries and to As a matter of fact, she still loves it. . relax and just enjoy".

She admitted it's a tremendous amount of work So, if the object is to discover exactly who this but says it serves to remind her of how much plealady is, we see she wears many hats. She is the sure there was in sitting down with her entire faniwoman who, when called to the bimah at her syna- ily for every seder. • • * gogue is perfectly capable of reading Torah flawShe recalled that when she and Paul were in lessly, of chanting the haftorah or singing beauti- their own place and making, their own yomto'v fully the ancient melodies which define that partic- preparations, the absence of their dear ones was ular service. difficult. They decided to create their own special Among her very important roles is that of parent holiday atmosphere with their own family unit.

- mother to Gila and Yoni. She takes great pride in She feels a sense of continuity when she looks these two fine youngsters and special joy in their around her festive table, crowded with friends and obviously comfortable place in the synagogue. She people dear to them. speaks of the fact that Gila has sung in the choir "My family may not actually be there, but yet I since she was an 8th grader, that she also is at feel their presence," Drazen added. "I set my table ease on the bimah and can do whatever she's with my mother-in-law's silverware and my grandcalled on to do. Yoni too earns parental pride with ma's china. The special tablecloth belonged to a his abilities both in and out of the synagogue. dear aunt. The special foods I cook are made from "He's a good kid," noted his mom. family recipes and taste just like they did when I Drazen speaks of their way of life and the syna- was a little girl."; ,.;•._;, gogue as a "family enterprise." Everything in She said, simply and sincerely,-."I love it." For a which she is involved has a Jewish connection, arid , fact, she really cfoes love all the "Jewish stuff". she was particularly pleased to be able to work in At a mention of the high holidays, she confided that Jewish education for"!12 years and to continue that acting as cantor during the alternate services at Beth work for the USCJ. El is a particular pleasure for her. After they had "I'm so lucky to be able to make a difference," she been here in Omaha for seven years, Cantor Emil noted. "And what I do does make a difference".

Berkovits asked if she'd be interested in assisting When asked how she happened to become Rabbi Jules Harlow during the coming services. involved in JELS, she explains that she was asked She was thrilled to be asked and said she spent to come in the office and help out when Rabbi the entire summer practicing and rehearsing, no Jonathan Rosenbaum left. Somehow, after a good matter what else was going on. When the time came, deal of "helping out", it must have become obvious she more than fulfilled the cantonal duties for the she could nicely fill the void. ' alternate service, and has done so ever since.

She loved her work, loved being in a position to Susan Drazen says matter-of-factly, "whatever I help kids go to Jewish camps and schools, to make do must have a Jewish component...no, ifs not limtrips to Israel. She loved the contact with their iting. Ifs who I am. Ifs what I am. Ifs true. Thafs families and the opportunity to enable so many to who and what she is, in addition to having all the enjoy Jewish experiences. As she so often says, she qualities necessary to count as an integral part of l o v e s all the Jewish stuff." her family, her synagogue, her community. •

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Little Sylvia Bernstein knew from the time she was old enough to understand, that she was special. "You know, you're not just anybody's daughter," her father told her. "You're Jake Bernstein's daughter!"

She was the third of four children. Her parents were immigrants who came to this country and worked hard to raise their family. Ida and Jacob Bernstein prided themselves on their family and the sense of responsibility they instilled in their children. From the time Sylvia was in second grade, she always knew that, when you're given a job-whatever it is~you do the job.

Sylvia Bernstein Wagner grew into a person who is now the epitome of Jewish womanhood. She is a rare combination of wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, politician and community volunteer. She refers to herself as "a Jewish mother" to Byron, Keith and Alan, their wives, and bubbe to eight grandchildren. She is much more than that!

One of the turning points of her life was her junior year at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. She enrolled in a political science class and it changed her life. This class became a "spark" for the rest of her college career. She had previously been a fair student, but this class made a difference in her thinking.

She graduated from college in 1946 and was married the following year to Robert Wagner, the love of her life. Her first involvement in Omaha volunteer work was selling raffle tickets at Beth El Synagogue.

"I was so successful, they gave me almost every job at Beth El Sisterhood," she joked. "I was very active and held every office except president."

Her volunteer work took a sharp turn when she joined The League of Women Voters. It was just before a presidential election and she decided that she she wasn't going to the polls without being intelligent and knowledgeable about the election.

Happy New Year

She came home from her first meeting full of enthusiasm.

- * - "What a wonderful group; of jiyomen," she told her husband. "They talked about life and the world."

Wagner, became president of the League of Women Voters in 1979.'. She worked with women from every walk of life whit), according to her, were - interested, interesting, arid didn't have a lazy bone in their bodies.

"These women cared," she noted. "They were just as active in their churches as I was at Beth El. They not only cared about the world at large, but they cared about their immediate worlds."

She finds this true today that her best friends can sit down and talk about anything—including families and recipes!

Her own career in politics began in 1981. She .volunteered to work on the campaign of her District 6 City Council representative. When she was told that he wasn't going to run again, she kiddingly said, "Well, if he isn't going to run again, I guess m have to run myself." She was elected to a two-year term in 1981 arid reelected to a full fouryear term in 1983.

In February of 1987, Omaha Mayor Mike Boyle was recalled and Wagner wad one of four council members who declared candidacy for the job. One of the things she proposed was general obligation bonds, to be paid off with tax dollars, which could be used to rebuild the City Auditorium.

Although she did want to. seek private funds, she said the revenue bonds could be used to pay for a proposed 1,000-car parking garage which would be adjacent to the auditorium. She proposed that the general bonds, would be paid off by parking fees. v , She also suggested a redevelopment of the entire riverfront from downtown to the Henry Doorly Zoo. If she had been elected, she proposed to be "a salesperson for the City of Omaha."

18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 27 .55

Sylvia Bernstein Wagner relaxes in her study.

She was defeated by only one vote!

Although Wagner is a registered Republican, she classifies herself as a centrist "They left me! I was going straight ahead and they went off and left me!" she exclaimed.

She moved her well-manicured hand off to the right She said many Democrats have the same feelings about their party affiliation.

Just a few of the committees which she served on while she was on the Omaha City Council were: The National Intergovernmental Advisory Council on Education, National League of Cities, Nebraska Environmental Control Council, Nebraska League of Municipalities, Nebraska Department of Economic Development and the United Way of the Midlands Board of Directors. She was on the Omaha Western Heritage Museum Board of Directors, and was the co-founder and chair of the Learning Center for (Continued on page 28)

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Not just anybody's daughter

She taught her cSolls first!

(continued from page 27) Jewish Women of Omaha.

Wagner is presently a member of the Jewish Senior Service Center of Excellence of the Omaha Jewish Federation, the Board of Directors of the Anti-Defamation League and serves on its National Washington Committee. She is also a member of the board of directors of Beth El Synagogue and a member of the Board of Directors of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and the Douglas County Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees.

All of these activities are in addition to being an avid bridge player and having a tremendous interest in acting and various cultural and arts groups.

She is a member and founder of the Metropolitan Actors Guild.

Wagner credits her success in life to her husband who died in 1996 after 48 and-a-half years of marriage.

Tfou have to understand...I would never have accomplished anything I've done without the support and love of Bob," she added. "I may have had the will, but he always told me that I was better prepared, better qualified. He had so much confidence in me. He knew of my abilities and he knew what I could do."

Her voice softened as she said, "When Bob was very, very ill and we knew he was going to die, he told me I would know what to do after he was gone.

And I have!"

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the Wilber Public Schools. Wilber, Nebraska, is about 35 miles from Lincoln, and Silberstein was When Phyllis Lerman Silberstein went to school the first Jewish person the people there had ever for the first day, she came home and told her moth- seen!

"The people there were so nice," she said. "They er, Lillian Lerman, that she was going to be a teacher! From that day on, little Phyllis was accepted me, and they were friendly. Basically, I always teaching. She convinced her friends to play taught everything including music and physical "school" and she lined them up in their seats while education. It was a great way to start!"

Silberstein only taught one year in Wilber, she taught pretend classes. She made her sister, Gayle Lerman Tichauer, one of her prize students. because, in 1974, her son, Neil, was born. During this time, she taught part-time reading and math She offered to play with at Prescott Elementary Gayle, but the game had School in Lincoln. to be "school" and Gayle In these classes, she had to be the student. If had children who had no live person was availspecial needs. Some of able, Phyllis lined up her the children were identidolls and made students fied as having learning of them! disabilities. Others were Silberstein always children-who were just loved children and she having difficult times always wanted to help with reading and math. them. She grew up Seth was born in 1977 babysitting whenever she and Silberstein began could. She was a camp teaching reading at the counselor at the Jewish Clinton Elementary Community Center School when he was only Camp, and she was one year old. always teaching—helping Phyllis and Mark Silberstein These classes also conchildren! Her dream of sisted of children who becoming a teacher always remained with her.

When she graduated from Omaha Central High were having difficulties with their reading. When School in 1966, Silberstein enrolled at the Seth was two, she accepted the position which she University of Nebraska at Omaha as an education currently holds at Randolph Elementary School in major. Her college career took a sharp turn when Lincoln. Even after the family moved back to she accepted a blind date with Mark Silberstein, a Omaha in 1989, her car could be seen going up and young man who had come to the United States down 1-80 every day!

At Randolph Elementary School, Silberstein from Montevideo, Uruguay. He was a neighbor of her brother-in-law, Carl Tichauer. She and Mark teaches second grade. Her classes include children were married in 1968, and she then transferred to with special needs. Unlike some teachers, she the University of Nebraska—Lincoln. She graduat- thinks that these children should be part of the ed in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. regular classroom.

"Children learn from each other," she said.

Since teaching jobs were hard to find at that (Continued on page 29) time, Phyllis accepted a job teaching first grade in

by Joan K. Marcus

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She taught her dolls first!

(Continued from bound and with whom page 28) children had no con"We have one girl tact. This promoted who is in a wheelchair. greater acceptance She is totally non-ver- ?; and the realization bal and needs help that accidents can with everything. Chilhappen to anyone. dren become more tolThe second was erant and more willing named "Generation to help each other Connections" and conwhen they are exposed nected children to to people with disabilielderly people, thus ties at an early age." promoting greater Silberstein also acceptance and underteaches children who standing on the part of have been identified as the children. having an I.Q. of 130 She has supervised stuor more. These childent teachers since 1985. dren require special "These teachers'are programs in order to our future," she stated. be challenged. _, - - - - -^ ^ , "Basically, these peoT n esdbers This year, she will t e i n fanuly: Phyllis, Seth, NeU and Mark. ple are eager to learn have children who are average, high achievers, and as much as they can. I try to"evaiuate"correctlylf I «p * U H . i, J T , see that if snot going to work, I suggest that they Ive taught them all, and I love teaching every find another line of work. I put 100% into what I studen! she joked. • ... d 0 ( a n d j t h i n k t h e y n e e d to> a l s o t h f l v e w in i»9d, failberstein earned a Masters of expectations for them—like I have for myself!"

Education Degree from the University of NebraskaShe also teaches Bible at Beth El Synagogue ? " l ^ f ™5 o r .. w a s elementary education and Talmud Torah. She likes to teach children about school administration. She is qualified to be an her love of Judaism, something that she can't do in administrator, but she refuses to leave the regular the public school. She is happy and proud to be a classroom.

Jew and she hopes to share this feeling with her "I love what I'm doing and I've even taught the Jewish students. . : children of my original students," she added. "I like Silberstein credits most of her success to her husband. my school and the people around me and I look for"Mark has always been supportive of me. He's ward to going to work everyday. I've been snowed caring and a great father. I never could have done in several times, but I always carry extra clothes in anything without his help," she said proudly. case I have to stay in Lincoln."

"There were times when I had to be away and Silberstein wrote grants for two special needs couldn't be with the boys. He was always there programs. The first was called "Celebrating with his love, support and guidance. He never Abilities " and was awarded in 1996 from Special stopped encouraging me.

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Being an American K G C

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Genevieve and Mel Bornstein Genevieve Stein Bornstein grew up in Omaha are unable to work; should be helped with social and graduated from Omaha Central High School. programs.

Her parents, Dave and Ida Stein, were Russian "I guess this all goes back to my father's theory of immigrants who loved being Americans. offering 'a helping hand,™ she said. , "Many things have gotten out of hand. There are Dave Stein was a man of very high principles.

According to Genevieve, he was a car dealer and he always people who take advantage of the system sold cars with a handshake. He always lived up to people who sell food stamps. But, that's no reason his word. Dave was a self-made man who loved to stop helping people. You just look beyond that being an American. He had come here when he was and use it for experience," she added.

16, and he always thanked God for the privilege of Bornstein does not consider herself to be a liberpaying taxes and living in America. Ida and Dave al. She believes that government is for the people had a great influence on their daughter, because and that the people whom we elect must be for the she is also very grateful to be an American! constituents.

She very boldly stated, "So far, I've worked for all Genevieve and Mel Bornstein were married in 1965. It was a marriage made in heaven, because Democrats. I haven't found a Republican that I care to work for. Not in Nebraska!" she already had two children, ages 15 and 17.

She is presently working for Bill Hoppner's According to Genevieve, "It was a package deal.

My children wanted me to marry Mel. They insist- gubernatorial campaign. ed we needed to be a family. In a way, they chose "I want Bill to win," she noted. "I don't like what him for me! He took the three of us on and he loves Mike Johanns stands for." those children!

She hadn't planned on working on the Hoppner "We have a wonderful marriage and a marvelous campaign until she discovered a November, 1997, family," she said. "The children (Linda Patton and letter which Mike Johanns sent out asking for John Farber) looked up to Mel and he guided them. donations. In the letter, Johanns called himself a We never had the problems that other people had Pro-Life Republican who eliminated funds for a with teenagers!" .

Planned Parenthood Education program.

She said, "Up until this time, we thought we were During the years before Genevieve and Mel were married, she was active in National Council of dealing with a moderate."

Jewish Women and Hadassah, in addition to workBornstein also believes that lesbians and homoing full time. She was not interested in politics at sexuals have a right to live good lives. this time of heir life. Politics came later!

"We're all people and I'm unhappy that Johanns When Edward Zorinsky announced he was going wouldn't sign the proclamation for the march. Tm to run for the United States Senate in 1980, not for a march, but I do believe people have a right Bornstein decided she was going to work for his to march if they want to! "I don't like the fact that campaign. he (Johanns) signed a proclamation for May 17 as a Several people formed a group which Senator "March for Jesus Day*," she added.

Zorinsky affectionately named "The Hockey Pucks."

She is also concerned about the possibility of tax Members of the group were: Cece and Ed Zorinsky, money being given to families to be used for private Esther and Dave Rice, Jeanette and Al Nepomnick schools. She doesn't think that vouchers should be and the Bornsteins. The group did fundraising, given. Her fear is that this would take money away made phone calls, stuffed envelopes, and did what- from public schools. : . .-,• . ever needed to be done in order to win the election.

"If my child.wants to go to a private school, if s up Remaining members of the group still meet regu- to me to have to pay for it," Bornstein stated larly for dinner at Goratfs Steak House.

• emphatically. ;;•.'...• ,;•'-•.":.

• • : ••.>/• r ; After Senator Zorinsky's death, Bornstein began to "You do realize that the biggest problem is the work on the campaign of J. Robert Kerrey, who ' extremists who are giving so much money to the decided to run for Zorinsky's seat in the Senate. She various candidates. We need to network the assets spent her time doing fundraising and phoning. of the various Democrats by phone. We can't allow She's a Democrat because she believes in 'The good candidates to lose because oflack of money, i Party1 and the idea of helping people to get proper . "People must get to know good candidates and education and helping people who can't help them- we must get'people out to vote. We can't just let selves. .:.• .'; •.'•/.'• . • • .;..'; • ;. .-•-,. V ': them sit on their hands. ; ..; ; v- •, She went on to list the permanence of Social "Jewish people should be the most concerned of Security, gun control and separation of church and all," she noted. T m only a peon, but I have to do state as programs for which the Democratic Party what I can to keep our country pro-choice, pro-gun stands. She beh'eves that people who are able to control, pro-equal rights for all human beings, and work should be helped to get jobs, but those who to keep prayer out of public schools!"

rr,< ww,c:

September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 31

Devoted to family, work and volunteerism

Happy Blew Year To All Our Friends & Customers

by Bert Lewis

Culminating such an impressive list of "outside To tell the story of Ms. Rothenberg, perhaps it's only fair to begin by better identifying her, since activities" should probably be the statement that she is much more familiarly known as Bunny, the Rothenberg was named one of the Ten Outstanding name she's had since childhood. In some circles, Young Omahans in 1994 by the Omaha Jaycees. she's no doubt known as Mrs. Steve Rothenberg, She said, in a quietly sincere way, "I got so much but in the area of education here in Omaha, she's back from anything I ever gave.J'm so fortunate."

Bunny Rothenberg.

She finds that frequently her path crosses with At home, she's Mom to Alexis, age 13 and to somebody she worked with years ago, in some voluntary capacity, she twins, Ian and Max, age speaks of having gained 10. It would be safe to so much from those expeassume that her family riences. She's quick to might keep her busy say that both the Jewish that her days might well and the non-Jewish combe filled with all the munities have been very responsibilities of raising good to her - she also a young family. To also makes it clear that it's assume these activities important to her "to give are to the exclusion of something back." everything else is, however, erroneous.

In 1990 she changed courses and went back to Bunny Rothenberg is, work, this time for the like many of her peers, a Western Heritage busy wife and mother Museum. Her title was with an active career Education Specialist and outside her home. The her assignment was to field of Education has develop all the classes always been a top priorithe Museum offered, ty with her, with a specific emphasis on Spedal ™ e Rothenberg family: front row, Max and from p r e . 8 c h o o i t o h i g h ' Education. Her back- Ian; Bunny, Alexu. and Steve, school. Some were for ground includes a B.S. in Elementary and Special exhibits, some were just for fun, but all were based Education, University of Nebraska at Lincoln on history.

She developed classes on everything from trains (1978), and an M.S. in Learning Disabilities from to ice cream, working diligently to find, ideas the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1982.

Her first job was as a Resource Teacher in appealing enough to bring people into the museum. ^Special Ed, with the Omaha Public Schools, in 78. She planned.special events for the Museum and The Resource Teacher takes the youngster who chaired the Omaha Metro Area History Day • . , ... :i. ... needs one-on-one or small instruction groups (in Competition in 1994.

Rothenberg left the museum in 1994, When they reading, writing or math) from .the regular classroom, to better provide the extra help the student began to suffer a financial crunch, and went back to her first love. She took a job as a part time requires.

Rothenberg devoted herself to this work until Special Ed Resource teacher with Millard Public 1985, when she began a five year hiatus to concen- Schools, where she has remained until this year.

This fall, at the beginning of the school year, trate on starting a family. This is not to imply that everything outside the home ceased for this ener- 1998, will find her starting a new job, a new chalgetic woman. On the contrary, during those years lenge and a new chapter in her career. She will at home, she says "all the volunteer work I had become the Executive Director of Case School for Learning Disabled and Dyslexic Children. been into since'82 really escalated."

The school, which is beginning its second year, is The term "all the volunteer work" covers a great deal of territory, almost too much to do justice to in a non-profit private school, located in Elkhorn, this space. Work with the Jewish Federation of Nebraska. It was. founded by a concerned parent Omaha included Leadership Development, who felt her child needed more than his public Women's Division Campaign, Foundation, Special school could provide, and wanted a setting in which Exhibits and recipient of the coveted Lois Schrager his particular needs would be met.

Young Leadership Award.

The school is geared for the child of average or Rothenberg also did a great deal for the Jewish above average intelligence who is learning disCommunity Center in the area of Early Childhood, abled. This means that within the small population Child Care, Child Development, board member, of this very special school, there are gifted children as well as average, but they share a common probBudget, and Board Development committees.

Her work With the National Council of Jewish lem. In some area or other of the brain, something Women covers more thanthirty different committees, is amiss which causes interference with learning..

In an environment where the ratio of Snstructor chairmanships, directorships, conventions, management conferences as well as holding offices as to student is maybe one to four, the resource Financial Secretary and Corresponding Secretary. The teacher has a much greater, chance at success in finding the "magic key" to unlock that barrier. This entire list is literally too long to print here: Service to Beth El Synagogue must be included is the goal - to find a way to help the child overhere, since time was given to youth affairs, as well come the particular problem which stands in the as Women's League, Planning committees and sev- way of his learning - to help him reach the point eral stints as a High Holiday teacher and where he can go back to his regular school, where he can be successful.

B.E.S.T.T. Parent Relations committee work.

The school is staffed by Educational Therapists, Jewish Family Service also,benefited from her interest, as well as ADL/CRC and Planned certified teachers and paraprofessionals, and covers grades four through nine. ' • Parenthood of Omaha.

Rothenberg will be in charge of everythingfromcur- Her work with the Junior League of Omaha, like the NCJW, involves almost too much to list here riculum to classes to any and all responsibilities of a but includes Teen Outreach, Leadership director. This is an opportunity she couldn't pass up Development, Planning Committees,'Project and is excited and enthusiastic about'it Everything she has done in the past has led her to this point Development and Advisory Planning committees.

She feels fortunate to be in a position to make In addition to these volunteer projects, Prairie Lane School, Westside Middle School and Westside such an important difference to the lives of children Community Schools have been on the receiving end who need help and looks forward to the challenge with enthusiasm, excitement and not a small meaof her energies. : ' The Children's Museum, River Cities Camp Fire sure of nervousness. council, Fontenelle Forest Guild, Girls, Inc. and People who know her, who have worked with her, even Ak-Sar-Ben deserve mention also, if the vol- know she will do a creditable job and wish her the best of luck. ' unteer list is to be complete.

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Page 32 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998 <

Making if lively

by Bert Lewis

People who have achieved a certain status or dis- ing marriage. tinction professionally are often asked if there was She explained that since both her son and his a mentor whose influence was significant. When fiance have "Purim" names, Mordecai and Esther, that question was asked of Ann Kibel Schwartz, she hoped to do something in megilla style. she laughed and said, "I could probably make a list Of her work at Temple, as Director of Education, of 50 people who played an important part in the Schwartz cannot say enough. She considers Jewish direction my life has taken." education "a work of art-a treasure to keep." She Without missing a beat, she proceeded to do so, herself is "always studying, always going to classes with her usual enthusiasm. and workshops."

Director of Education is the formal title by which She quotes Rabbi David Wolpe who said, "We're she is identified at Temple Israel, a title which here to grow in soul." sounds deceptively low key. To this director, howShe is truly immersed in "seeing the world ever, nothing is low key! She is a woman who is so through Jewish eyes." involved in every aspect of Jewish education, there Schwartz grew up in an Orthodox environment, is no mistaking the fact that she loves and lives her the child of survivors who had little but gratitude job. for the chance to be in this country and their own If asked how she got into the field of education, deeply rooted religious convictions. She says that she begins by telling that while art was her first although their secular education was sketchy, their field of study, she has always "worked with kids." Jewish education was rich.

She speaks of such a job with the Memphis Jewish "Their lives were ennobled by their Judaism," she Community Center as a teen. recalled.

She remembers being a teaching assistant in Her enthusiasm for her work, her love of the Sunday School; she says, "I always taught."

Hebrew language and her joy in the opportunity to Schwartz recalls many experiences which sharp- shape the minds of children is something seldom ened her interest in teaching and education, and seen. names involvement with Hillel during graduate "Through Hebrew,'we impart a sense of holiness," school as a case in point. She counts her activity Schwartz noted. "We teach kids the value of Torah. with Young Judea as influential, as well as being in We want them to know that Judaism isn't just the environment of a Jewish day school. something you do until you're 13...it's life-long So it becomes more clear that although art stud- learning." ies were paramount, teaching and education began To achieve success in these endeavors means conto find a place at the top of her list. In addition, it stant attention to curriculum, to teachers and parshould be noted that while the latter is her primary ents too. One of the programs implemented two position today, in no way have her talents as an years ago is Family School. Once a week, third artist been retired. On the contrary, her creativity through fifth grade students and r their family shows itself in most areas of her work and of late, attend class and learn together. This includes she has begun to explore writing poetry. She finds intergenerational Hebrew classes and parallel this a satisfying new avenue of self expression. classes in Jewish history and customs."

Schwartz confided that she was excited about Schwartz believes in the importance of this con"doing the ketuba" for her son, Mordy's, forthcom cept. She feels it strengthens family bonds and

Every year, the staff of Temple Israel dresses up for Purim. Last March, Ann Kibel Schwartz was "the matchmaker" for Temple's movie theme. helps those who participate to feel more comfortable, more at home at Temple. She looks forward to beginning the third year of this growing program.

With the ever present enthusiasm, Schwartz noted, "This is a big religious school-more than 300 (Continued on page 33) ' -

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Making it lively children. We try to make Judaism real for them, because kids respond to real."

She uses, as an example, the seder experience; each fourth grade child makes a seder plate. She tells that "they don't draw on a paper plate. They JMorwji, w k a jpf&aAf make a ceramic plate which they can keep and use "Pvs. fedf kaKj of 4k* kttwft on Passover for years to come."

Upon i\\tt wirtd, , This is what Schwartz calls "making it real". An on-looker might call it an example of the artist tlvs'm $a{e\y kairtA ogairt. coining through the teacher. Though her responsibilities are myriad, her enthusiasm never wanes. topj tka. fain She's in charge of planning and implementing curriculum, she hires and supervises teachers and does more than a little teaching herself. She is an experienced educator and her commitment is evi- Lift avj^y dent in the energy she brings to her workShe added, "Our goal for education at Temple is holistic, not just learning facts and skills but how t, Winiz t p to show respect for others as well as self-respect Open hma, vpon W& •_ through learning Torah, Jewish history and ethics, and how to be a mensch."

• Schwartz stated (in an earlier interview), "Along with these goals, we follow the curricular guidelines of Reform Jewish Education, which include celebrating Shabbat, festivals and Jewish ceremonies; affirming historic bonds to Israel and the Jewish People; furthering the causes of justice, freedom and peace by pursuing tzedek (righteousness), mishpat (justice) wi\U iUt kawk and chesed (loving deeds), and supporting and participating in the life of the synagogue."

Away from Temple, Schwartz enjoys a home life with her husband Don, a teacher and writer.

"Don is a very calm and patient man who is a |(j|| and 4ka empfy, always there for me. He's a wonderful partner and flL a proud, supportive father to our son, Mordy."

Mordy is studying to be a Rabbi in the Conservative movement, as is his wife, Esther Reed. The couple was married last month and now live and study in Israel.

"Mordy has found a wonderful person. We love Esther and can't wait to welcome her into our family," Schwartz added.

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Page 34 JewishPrees, Omaha, NE September 18,1999

The

by Bert Lewis

It's very easy to write about Sharon Z. Kotok - or, if ydu prefer, Shane, the name by which she is more familiarly known. Her face, as well as her name is also familiar to many, perhaps because her presence has had a profound effect on one particular segment of the Jewish community in Omaha.

Her title names her as Director of Community Outreach Services, for Jewish Senior Services. It also indicates she administers the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Not everybody knows what that means, but to the people who have called on her for help in various family problems, her input has been deeply felt and greatly appreciated.

Kotok often enters the scene at a time when devoted family members have reached an emotional impasse. She is called upon to unravel personal issues which appear to be permanently tangled.

She is expected to produce answers for questions not entirely understood.

Sometimes people come to her for help in deciding whether or not a family member should go into the Blumkin Home. Or maybe an elderly loved one is showing disturbing signs, indicating something is wrong but "what should I do?"Occasionally it's a matter of a person who lives alone and who needs. help to maintain that independence.

To the family suffering from the guilt which so often accompanies the kind of role reversal frequently seen today, she offers professional counseling, tempered with the genuine caring attitude of a friend. To the person trying to cope with the loss of a loved one, she extends the sympathetic help her training has taught her, but with it comes warmth.

The scope of problems which affect elderly citizens today are so vast, the people who train in the field of Social Work as it applies to gerontology, are more needed than ever. People are living longer, and with advanced age come more and more difficulties. In addition, the trend of grown children moving away from the hometown has exacerbated some of the problems since families now often live many miles from each other.

This phenomenon is responsible for certain types of phone calls Kotok receives from distant cities.

A very worried son or daughter might say, "I've been trying to get my folks for hours and there's no

this combination Solomon and Job in skirts.

This gentle lady who first became interested in the elderly, years ago when she was a volunteer at the old Dr. Sher Home. She and husband, David, with their three little ones hadn't been in Omaha long when Shane discovered a special interest in the elderly.

As her interest grew, she realized she wanted to know more, and soon decided to take a night course in gerontology at UNO. She studied with Dr. Leo Missini, whose devotion to the topic served to further encourage her.

Her studies led her to the writings and philosophy of Rabbi Abraham Heschel, who was an influence on her then, and still is to this day. His attention to the spiritual ills of society and the importance of the "effort to restore the dignity of old age", and "our ability to revive the equation of old age and wisdom", are phrases she's never forgotten.

They figure importantly in her philosophy regarding her work.

She is often an invited speaker at workshops for professionals in the field of aging.

Recently, while addressing such a group, she said "I think as caregivers to our elders, we need to be T h e Kotok family: S t e p h e n , David, Annie, concerned most of all with our listening skills. We Shane and Seth. need to listen, really listen to the reminiscences, answer. I'm frantic!" and to hear the master story."

The response to this means immediate investigaKotok points out that teachers and writers, psytion to be certain that all is well. Sometimes, all is chiatrists and clergy, experts from every area, all definitely not well, and help has been needed for agree that everyone, no matter who, has a story to some time, but nobody knew. More often than not, tell. The listener, particularly when the story teller this household becomes another recipient of is elderly, has an opportunity to be transported Kotok's professional attention. back to another dimension in time.

These examples cited here are only a few of the "When that 90 year old man is talking to me many pieces of the mosaic which make up the about his early life in the shtetl, I'm back there Outreach Services. Kotok also visits people in the with him, feeling the experience," said Kotok. hospital, mindful of the fact that many are unable She's saddened by the realization of the diminishto take care of themselves when dismissed. She ing numbers from that generation, knowing how helps make decisions about the best follow-up care different the memories will be when told by a oldavailable and in general, takes away some of the ster born in this country, in this century. frightening part of illness and recuperation.

She quoted from an article on social work and As must be evident by now, this young woman is called upon for help in many examples of life cycle spirituality, written by Sadelle Greenblatt, who events. She's been seen at the bris of many a stressed the importance of not getting bogged down Jewish baby who might be the newest member of a in'the business of delivering meals, providing family she's involved with, and sadly, she's present transportation and solving the daily problems, and forgetting to listen.

•# for.the final goodbyes, too.

This is an appropriate place to say more about (Continued on page 35) i •

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The value of listening (Continued from page 34) Without really listening, she felt it impossible to really know the client.

Shane Kotok knows the value of being a good listener. She has elevated listening to a high art, and that is perhaps one of the reasons she is held in such high esteem by clients and colleagues alike.

She believes that everyone, without exception, even the person suffering from dementia, has a story to tell and the right to tell it. ' ' Furthermore, she believes as strongly, the listener has an obligation to really listen.

Sharon Z. Kotok, MS, CSW. Even all of this is probably not a complete picture of who she really is, but anyone who has had the opportunity to meet her in person will soon find out, just by talking with her. ' ' Her family includes husband, David, and three grown children: Seth, 27, Andrea (Annie), 23, and Stephen, 19.

When Seth was 16 years old, he wrote an essay on gemilut hasadim, which is defined as "acts of (loving) kindness." He .wrote that he toyed with the notion of writing about a political figure or a religious leader. Then, he said, suddenly the phone rang and somebody asked for "Shayna". He knew then who would be the subject of his essay. Of course, he wrote about his mom, who in his mind, exemplified acts of loving kindness.

Shane, Sharon....sometimes Shayna, often used by folks who know a little Yiddish. I think she answers to all three names.

I also think Seth had remarkable insight for a 16 year old. Certainly, when it comes to gemilut hasadim, I doubt anyone could surpass Shane.

warm glow about Jewish education

by Rebecca Perelman

When it comes to education, Elyce Azriel has mastered the knowledge and skills required to effectively deliver her teachings. She is presently a community teacher hired by the Omaha Jewish Federation/ Jewish Educational and Library Services.

She has an extensive background in education, initially studying Speech Communications and Religion while attending Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1973.

One year later, she transferred to Spertus College Elyce and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel of Judaica and the University of Illinois, where she continue her degree in Jewish studies and taught received her Bachelor of Arts in Jewish Studies in sixth grade at Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, and third grade at B'nai 1977.

From 1984 to 1987, Azriel attended Baltimore Yehoshua Beth Elohim in Glenview, Illinois. "This Hebrew College and the Board of Jewish Education was challenging because I was a freshman in college, where she received a Master Teacher's Certificate. interchanging the student side of the desk with the This program was designed to upgrade teacher per- teacher side," she said. "Was I a good teacher? formance in the community by creating opportuni- Probably not. I certainly was an untrained teacher."

In 1976, Elyce Azriel married Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, ties for a cadre of selected classroom teachers to be (same last name, different pronunciation) Whom trained as specialists.

Overlapping her Master Teacher Program were she had met two years earlier at the regional two additional educational programs. In 1986, she reform camp, Olin-SangrRuby Union Institute.

The couple lived in Illinois, where she continued completed another teacher's license through the Jewish Education Society of North America, to teach the third and sixth grades at B'nai Teaching Permit II. She finished her education in Jehoshua Beth Elohim and Beth Tikvah 1987 with a Nebraska Teaching Certificate for for- Congregation. In addition to these teaching positions, she taught third grade Hebrew and Judaica eign language for grades K-12.

In 1974, she began her teaching career while still at Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation in in college. She taught Sunday school at B'nai Northfield, Illinois.

(Continued on page 36) Jeshrun in Des Moines. She returned to Chicago to

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Women expected to have unprecedented opportunity to influence the future

A warm glow about Jewish education

(continued from page 35) "In the beginning of my teaching career, I tried to her direction, supervision, administration, and conmodel myself after my own teachers," Azriel said. "I sultation She continued in this position and teachmay not have had a ton of experience under my ing until they left Baltimore in June, 1987.

by Claudia Sherman belt'1 but I did know which teachers I enjoyed and "I was mainly a Hebrew curriculum mentor/ Foundation Public Relations Coordinator which I had not. supervisor," Azriel said. "But this position also Forget about Powerball. It's estimated by Cornell This influenced my teaching style. I also knew required me to use several skills I had acquired University economist Robert Avery that ten trillion that I really liked young people and derived from previous jobs."

Elyce and Aryeh made their most recent move to dollars will be transferred by the Great tremendous pleasure from helping them learn Omaha in 1987. She immediately received her Depression/World War 11 generation over the next about their Jewish heritage."

30 years to their baby boomer children.

The couple moved to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1981 for Nebraska Teaching Certificate, and began teaching That's ten Trillion - with a capital T .

Aryeh to begin his Rabbinical training. There she at Temple Israel where she has been for more than According to Victoria Agron, Vice-president was a Supervisor of the fourth through sixth grades ten years.

UJA, of that ten trillion, it's estimated that two When Azriel was asked if she felt that she has trillion at Rockdale Temple as well as a teacher in the dollars will pass within the American Cincinnati Community Hebrew Schools untill983. reached every child and adult she taught, she Jewish community. Currently .60 percent of the She also was a teacher of ninth-12th grades at the replied, "I don't think so, but I do try and the wealth in this country is controlled by women.

Cincinnati Reform High School during their tenure reward is always selling former students and their Within Omaha's Jewish Federation Foundation, own children. I am grateful for how they greet me in Cincinnati. women have been an "integral impetus" in estabIn conjunction with these positions in the with affection and appreciation for the love of lishing endowment funds in conjunction with their Cincinnati community, she was named full-time Judaism I helped to instill in them. There is a great husbands and other family members and also by Director of the Jewish Teacher's Center. Her deal of satisfaction that comes from teaching for- themselves, noted Marty Ricks, Foundation endowresponsibilities were tremendous requiring her mer students who have become rabbis, Jewish edu- ment director. direction, supervision, administration, and consul- cators, and active Jewish lay leaders; a warm glow To date, 18 endowments have been set up inditation for several programs, workshops, and public- comes over me and I feel rewarded."

Azriel used her experience in directing the vidually by women. Another 16 funds were set up ity matters. This position provided Azriel with first Jewish Teacher's Centers in both Cincinnati and in honor of specific women. Several funds were left class experience in several valuable areas.

She left all this behind in 1983 when she and her Baltimore to create the Hebrew Center at the by womeii in their wills. ^The/e ire numerous opportunities to meet the husband moved to Baltimore, MD, for Rabbi regional camp, Olin-Sang Ruby-Union Institute in n£eds of our Jewish community depending on Oconomowoc, WI. In addition to her teaching, she Azriel's first pulpit position. whatever someone's personal passion may be," said She committed to be a Supervisor of a one-day-a- has authored several curricula, Experiential Kicks. "Endowments make a lasting difference in week program and Master Teacher from 1983 to Educational Curriculum, for the Union of the lives of children and in the care received by the 1986 at the Baltimore Hebrew Congregation. In American Hebrew Congregations and has written elderly. Our funds also perpetuate the cultural and 1985, she was the Master Teacher of Hebrew and for the Jewish Teacher's Handbook, published by spiritual legacies of Judaism.

Judaica for seventh grade at Har Sinai Alternatives In Religious Education.

"Designated endowments are a superb way to Congregation. In addition to this job, she planned, Azriel currently is the director of the Temple give appropriate attention to causes that are under organized, and maintained a Hebrew teachers' Israel High School which she comes to with more resource room at the school. than 20 years of extensive teaching, camp and supported or poorly understood," pointed out Ricks.

Other donors look at endowments as opportunities The following year, Azriel extended her teaching youth work, writing, and administration. She also experience and held a position as a full time Co- teaches sixth grade in the religious school and for more active, hands-on involvement in the community such as helping to make decisions on synagogue, Administrator of Aaron H. Leibtag Resource adult B'nai Mitzvot classes. youth, and other local Jewish programs.

Center, Board of Education in Baltimore. Once Elyce and Rabbi Azriel have two children, a (Continued on page 37) again, her responsibilities were endless requiring daughter, Leora, age 12, and a son Yaniv, age four.

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Women expected to have unprecedented opportunity (Continued from page 30) I n light of the expected tremendous transfer of wealth, unfortunately much will be lost to taxes," Ricks mentioned. "Endowments can offer donors some extremely attractive tax and income opportunities depending on how they're funded," he said.

In addition to endowments, there are several types of trust agreements available for estate planning.

Life insurance also offers an appealing way of meeting a donor's charitable interests while at the same time saving taxes, explained Ricks.

When Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis died, she left an estate estimated at $100 to $200 million. She had established a charitable lead trust. After a period of time during which specified income from her trust is donated to charity, more than 90 percent of the assets will revert to her beneficiaries.

But you don't have to be a former first lady once married to a Greek shipping magnate to sail away with the benefits of a charitable lead trust or other types of charitable vehicles.

Benefits such as an immediate income tax deduction for part of the contribution plus the added advantage of removing the property from the taxable estate and lowering estate tax costs are available to everyone.

An additional advantage may accrue through the contributions of property subject to long-term capital gains treatment.

Many in the Great DepressionWorld War II generation are thinking twice about leaving huge wealth to their children, said Mark Weber, executive vice president of Mammel & Associates, in an Omaha WorldHerald interview irf July. They want to leave enough to their children to give them security but not enough to take away their incentive to work and become useful members of society, he explained.

Ricks said that women tend to make targeted gifts. Their concern for the Jewishness of the next generation and being more involved in the charitable selection process influence women's philanthropic habits.

"The opportunity to leave a legacy for the enrichment of Omaha's Jewish community might be better now and in the next couple decades than it has ever been - or ever will be again," observed Ricks.

"The women in our community have an unprecedented opportunity to control how that legacy will influence the future. They can follow in the charitable footsteps of women like 'Mrs. B' who left her mark on this community for generations to come.

"I hope women — and men as well - will talk to us about the endowment possibilities," Ricks added, "and let us help them avoid the taxation pitfalls that could easily swallow up much of the promise of those trillions of dollars."

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by Carol Katzman

In 1950, Charlotte Kaplan, a young that Charlotte Kaplan is best mother of two, was asked to "fill in" at known.

B'nai Israel Synagogue, the shul on "Rabbi Isaac Nadoff, of blessed 18th and Chicago, while the regular memory, came to me and said, secretary was on vacation..

'Charlotte, I'd like you to put togethBeth Israel was under construction, er a women's division for the a merger of Beth Hamedrash HaGadol Chevrah Kadishe. It's a mitzvah to and B'nai Israel. Son.rMarshall, was do something for someone who canonly sik-years-old, and daughter, not thank you,'" Kaplan recalled.

• Marilyn, jvaajust three;•but.pharlbtte • "Well, I couldn't turn down Rabbi and her husband, Sam, could depend Nadoff!"' on help from'his mother, • Ida Kaplan^ '' At the time, Mr. and Mrs. Simon . who lived with,the family.. . ,• .•, •' •',• Gelbart were the caretakers of the While Beth Israel was under con- Jewish Funeral Home on 19th and struction, Kaplan was called back to Cuining St., and Harry and Pauline train a new secretary. At .that time, Sidman were responsible for the the building consisted of the lobby, administrative duties, but there main sanctuary, social hall, kitchen, were no volunteer members of the chapel and "unfinished offices.''

Chevrah Kadishe.

For 35 years, Kaplan was the main"Jennie Bear was involved, too, and stay at Beth Israel. She kept all the we were trained by Cantor Leo membership records, sent out tribute Fettman," Kaplan remembered. cards and yahrtzeit notices, did the "There- were others, too, most of billing and deposits. whom wanted to remain anonymous.

The only time she took off was when "I became an expert in cemetery, child number three, Andrea, was born design, too," she added, recalling in 1965, and Kaplan returned to work when Beth Israel purchased ground full-time in 1970. from the Mount Sinai Cemetery "There were no computers then," Association, at 78th and Crown Kaplan recalled. "We had a large pay- Pointe, to create the Beth Shalom roll for the synagogue staff and the Cemetery, Talmud Torah which served more Today, Kaplan chairs the women's Ithan 250 children." half of this volunteer corps as a vol-. ', In addition to her regular adminis- unteer herself. It is she who calls trative tasks, Kaplan also attended memberfl_of the Chevrah Kadishe, synagogue board meetings at night, sometimes after Shabbat is over, Bchool board meetings and sisterhood late on a Saturday night, sometimes ' meetings (though the Sisterhood' had first thing in the morning, with the -volunteers to handle'their record sad news that yet another woman in keeping and billing). Kaplan did take the Jewish community has died, over those duties for the Sisterhood "The first time I participated, it.' after she officially retired in 1985 and was hard," said Kaplan. "And it's has been their Treasurer now for more • hard to convince others to share this than seven years. mitzvah."

However, it is probably her associaShe's recruited more than 25 voltion with the Chevrah Kadishe, the unteers over the years, but says Jewish ritual burial society, that (Continued on page 38)

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Page 38 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

You need to be yourself

Holding down the fort (Continued from page 37)

Their daughter, Rebecca Bostick, also lives here with her son, James; he started school at Central High last month. Their by. Lisa S.Lewis son, Allen Cipinko, lives in Akron, In response to the question, "What factors in OH, with his wife, Emily, and their baby daughter, Hannah. Daughter your life propelled you to enter (and succeed) in and son-in-law, Andrea and Scott this field?" is a very simple answer: Sam. Like most others of my generation, I went off to Dull, live in Lincoln. college knowing exactly what I wanted to be - a There was a family reunion of writer, a journalist to be more precise. sorts when Charlotte's husband of But life isn't always as simple, and when I 55 years, Sam, died this summer. arrived the University of Illinois, I enrolled in a A happier reunion took place in physicalatanthropology course. That was it; I was Las Vegas last month, when hooked. Forgotten was the school ofjournalism; the Kaplan's sister and her husband, new major was to be anthropology.

Adeline and Malvin Tepper, celeStudying anthropology for the next 11 years, I brated his 75th birthday.

In addition to continuing her role earned my BA, MA and Ph.D. in the subject and in the Chevrah Kadishe, Kaplan met my future husband, Serge Goldstein, a Ph.D. spends her time with Beth Israel candidate at Yale. We were married in 1984.

When we finished our degrees, there were few Sisterhood and Amit Women, jobs to be had in our field. He had already decided where she and her late husband Charlotte Kaplan, seated, celebrated with her family in Las served as co-Presidents. to work in the computing field, and took a job at Vegas, during her brother-in-law's 75th birthday. the City University of New York. I too took a job in She's in charge of the annual computing, but continued to pick up teaching there's always a need for more. It's currently an Mother/Father in Israel event which raises funds for active group of 12 women who have been trained by Amit programs in Israel, their orphanages and "gigs"at the various universities in the city.

In 1986, we made a big move; we left New York local rabbis in the careful and respectful tradition schools.

New Jersey, when Serge was offered a job at of preparing bodies for burial, the Jewish way.

"I work very closely with Georgia Ann Steinberg in for "I've never had an instance where no one has Sisterhood," she said. "In fact, we're planning the Princeton. I, too, began working at the university responded," Kaplan said. "Though sometimes it annual donor luncheon now for November. Maggie and, other than contact with old friends and what we read in the news, we haven't kept up much with takes four to five hours of leaving messages and Gerber and Janet Kohll are chairing the event" the anthropological world. At times I worried that playing 'telephone tag.'

She also serves on the Va'ad HaKashrut Committee "Thank God for answering machines," she said of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and represents all that education was "wasted."

In 1988, our first child, Samuel Lewis Goldstein, with a smile.

Hadassah on the Jewish Cultural Arts Council. born. We lovingly watched him grow, until his Kaplan does take'a break, now and then, visiting "I don't miss the administrative tasks," admitted was development seemed to go mysteriously awry after her family. Son, Marshall, and his wife, Annette, Kaplan, "but I'm happy to be involved." live in Woodbridge, VA. Their daughter, Allison, With a schedule that appears to have no extra 18 months or so. Within three years, we received attends the University of Missouri, where she is time, Kaplan still manages to exercise in classes in the shocking news - our beloved boy was autistic.

After the news sunk in, we jumped into action. It majoring in journalism. And grandson, David, the JCC pool with her "gang of friends" and attend started college in Virginia this fall. weekly Monday meetings of the Young Energetic became clear to me that my years of education, my Her daughters both live nearby. Marilyn and Ed Seniors, an apt description of a woman who started training in research and writing were not wasted Treller are Omahans.

(Continued on page 39) out as a young "fill in" secretary some 48 years ago!

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You need to be yourself (Continued from page 38) on me. There was BO much to do, so much to learn.

By this time Sam's brother, Jacob, had been born.

In 1992, the Internet was something foreign to most people. Since Serge and I both worked in the computing center of a major university, we were already on the 'net' and knew its potential power.

Although autism is a neurological disorder for which there is no known cure, we were able to determine therapies Sam needed and how to make sure that our school district provided i t We began early intervention before we knew what was causing Sam's problems, and by age 3u2 he was getting specific therapy and schooling. He became more sociable and spoke more, but had a long way to go. At four, he was admitted to a fine school; we continued therapies at home and on weekends.

At five, Sam's behavior became really difficult.

Behavioral issues-terrible tantrums, non-compliance and aggression—had always been a challenge.

Everything intensified, but then I began hearing about food allergies, something I had dismissed as causing behavioral symptoms, but we had nothing to lose.

Wheat was removed from Sam's diet; the change in Sam was remarkable and fast. His school kept detailed behavioral data, and since I hadn't told them about the experiment, the collection was 'blind.'

Aggressive incidents dropped from double-digits in a five-hour day to one or two. Many days Sam had none.

Within five days of removing wheat from Sam's diet, his pronouns were suddenly and completely correct. Something we had worked on for years was magically fixed. How odd, we all thought.

Though hardly as convincing as a double blind, crossover experiment, the correlation between Sam's improvement and the dietary change was unequivocal. There was no going back until a day I slipped up, and mindlessly handed him toast.

I gasped, but thought "well now we'll see." He went to school with no note about the slip up. Five hours later the bus pulled up; I got out Sam's notebook. "What happened? This was the worst day Sam has had in, two months" the note began.

The researcher in me had to know more. I looked for the reasons"why this could be helping and found research in England and Norway, largely rejected by the American medical profession, which showed a protein called gluten was the probable culprit.

Gluten gives wheat products elasticity and allows them to rise when combined with yeast or other leav-

Wishing All Our Friends a Healthy Happy New Year LIGHT INDUSTRIAL

September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 39 eners. While the highest concentration of gluten is in newsletter, The ANDI News, and sell a few useful wheat, it is also in oats, rye and barley. Further, items. We also give workshops and network at conresearch showed that milk protein, casein, was struc- ferences and are now working with a chef in turally similar to gluten. All milk products, which California to develop an ANDI line of baking mixes.

Sam loved, disappeared from our refrigerator.

In addition to helping other parents focus on By contacting those who have Cehac Disease (an dietary issues, I have tried to teach them to be advointolerance to gluten protein which causes gas- cates for their children. Our educational system has trointestinal problems), I learned about making provisions for children with disabilities, but whether food for my son. Sam was soon the willing subject or not a child benefits depends largely how strong for my many experiments, and soon I could provide and able an advocate the parents can be. him with almost anything he wanted to eat, minus It is now two years since I (somewhat reluctantly) left the damaging gluten and casein. my job at Princeton. Oddly enough, I have come full cirEveryone who, knew Sam was convinced that, for cle, spending much of my time on writing projects. No, I whatever reason, his diet was helping him. am not a journalist nor an anthropologist. My creI posted information on the Internet, and made ative side is satisfied by developing new and delicious thousands of electronic friends. Letters, calls and e- ways to cook, while following a restricted diet. mail arrived from people who wanted more, informaAnd what of Sam and Jake? They are now 10 and tion. The amount of time and money this took was six. Sam attends a regular school, though his acadegetting out of hand. The World Wide Web was mics are taught by special education teachers. He how becoming widely used, and a friend helped me post knows that he has autism, though it isn't clear what my paper on my very first home page. Because this means to him. A personal aide keeps him focused Princeton keeps statistics on "hits" (visits) to then- and on track, should behavioral problems arise. web pages, I was able to track interest This will be his third full year in this setting, and To my amazement, my web page began receiving we are so proud of him! This little boy who didn't close to 500 hits a week from all over the world, as talk or play is doing grade level math. He underfar away as Malaysia and Singapore. I also began stands that he is different, and will sometimes ask hearing from professionals, and was included in us if a particular statement or behavior is appropriimportant preliminary meetings and think tanks. ate. We have a long road ahead, but I prefer to look For a long time, Serge had encouraged me to open back and see how far we have already come. some kind of cooking or baking business, to provide Jacob started first grade, and is verbal and precodelicious foods to others who must keep this strin- cious. He loves science and knows more than many gent regimen. Ultimately, I decided to instead adults about topics of interest to him (don't try to write a book on the subject. In addition to proving best him in a game of shark or dinosaur trivia!) stimulating and challenging for me, I also reached I am most proud of the total acceptance he has for an even wider audience. I was convinced that, his brother, and how he tries to help him when neceswhile not a cure, this diet could really help. sary. Each night we look for the moral of our goodWhen I tried to imagine a book that would have night story and Jake never fails to find a good one. helped me the most, I could picture it. That is how A few nights ago we read the book Elmer, about a my book Special Diets for Special Kids came to be. funny little elephant that wanted to be gray like Half information, half cookbook, it is the only "why other elephants, instead of a crazy quilt of colors. to and how to" manual of its kind. It explains every When asked what the story was really about, Jacob reason why a parent should try the diet, and then: did not hesitate. the steps through its implementation.

"You need to be yourself," he said, "even if you I've met many important, influential people are a little different." . through my research, but it is contact with moms Amen to that. and dads I treasure the most. One mother, Karyn Seroussi, credits the dietary information with sav(Editor's note: anyone interested in this subing her child. Put on "the diet" when he was 19 ject can contact Lisa Lewis, the daughter of months, he is now a normal five-year old. Karyn Bert and Leonard Lewis of Omaha, allisasl56 convinced me to start a small business with her, ©aol.com or write to ANDI at P.O. Box 17711, and together we run ANDI, the Autism Network Rochester, NY, 14617-0711. Visit the ANDI web for Dietary Intervention. We publish a quarterly site at: www.AutismNDI.com)

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Page 41 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

She realized, as a young college student, that she could make a difference.

"I grew up in a passionate home. My family has Susan Noddle is an enigma.

She's a rare combination of businesswoman, lob- always been involved in politics and I was raised to byist, and caring person. At first glance, one is speak out about what I believe. My parents were taken with her physical beauty, but it only takes a few minutes to discover that this is a person who cares deeply about her family, Israel, and people who are less fortunate than herself. Her beauty conies from within.

••• Bob Wolfson, Executive Director of the AntiDefamation League, said, "Susie is well informed about child care and health issues. She has a longtime interest in Israel and she knows about issues having to do with planned parenthood.

"She is interested in what happens, communicates well with legislators, and is caring and respectful," he added.

Noddle has volunteered for the American-Israeli Political Affairs Committee (ADPAC) which is a proIsrael lobbying organization. She's also worked with the Nebraska delegation in Washington, D.C. for continued foreign aid to Israel.

"I think we have a 100% success rate with the five Nebraska representatives,* she noted.

Noddle has worked on behalf of the Jewish Federation Young Leadership Cabinet. Although Susie Noddle she is not a member of the group, she has gone philanthropic and that led to my interest in politiwith them to Washington to lobby for foreign aid .

Noddle was & student at Tulane University in cal issues," she said.

Noddle admitted to being very stubborn in her New: Orleans, Louisiana when David Duke, former leader of the Ku-Lux-Klah, ran for governor of beliefs. She has spoken out about pro-choice issues for the Planned Parenthood Association and has Louisiana.

"This was a school in which 30 percent of the stu- served on the board of the Friends of Planned dents are Jewish, and the Grand Dragon of the Parenthood group, "I love the game of politics," she said with a KKK was running for governor!" she recalled. "I was never involved in Louisiana politics.but I knew smile. "Our representatives in Washington and Lincoln are only people. They're friends and it's that I had to help with this situation.

"We didn't campaign for Edwin Edwards, but we easy to sit down and talk to them. When we write campaigned against David Duke," she added. "I letters to our representatives, it's like voting. sat on street corners, passed out literature, hung We're being counted!"

She spoke wistfully about her family and said, "I signs, and sat on street corners to protest Duke. am truly blessed. I've learned the art of giving and

by Joan K. Marcus

of selflessness from my family. We all love each other and we're all best friends.

"Someday, I'd like to be like my grandmother, the late Lillian Farber," she admitted. "She was a truly great woman who gave her heart, her soul, her money, and her time to help other people. We still have all of the beautiful plaques from people who honored her for the work that she did."

She cited her parents, Nancy and Harlan Noddle, ' for teaching her the art of giving.

"We're blessed in what we have, but it's not ours to keep," Noddle noted.

Last year, she went io visit the former Soviet Union. She wanted to see how. her "brothers and sisters" were living. She explained that this trip was the most rewarding experience of her life and said she felt deeply for the children and elderly who suffer from poverty.

She said, "It was remarkable to be with' those people. Somehow, after that trip, material things weren't important to me anymore! More Jews from the United States should go to Russia to visit because they would be appalled at how some of the Soviet Jews are living. I was deeply moved by the whole experience."

Although Noddle has moved to Chicago to run an office for Noddle Development Company, she still considers the Omaha Jewish community her first lova "The Omaha Jewish community is a family," Noddle said. "It's warm and personal!"

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Page 42

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

The ball is in her court

by Melissa Katzman

For some, success comes easy; for others, the goal is reached at the very end of a long tunnel of hard work. Andrea Friedman's tennis career started early with the help of her natural ability.

She recalled how it began, "My grandmother is a good tennis player, and when I was about eight, she brought me out to the court and just started hitting the ball around with me. I had played many sports before this so I took to tennis sort of naturally."

Friedman continued to play tennis, just for leisure, until her grandmother (Molline Cassman) entered her in a tournament, the Kiwanis Junior Open, when she was ten; and she won it.

Tournament after tournament, Friedman proved to be the number one player.

"I entered into many more tournaments and kept winning them. My parents (Amy and Sanford Friedman) finally looked at each other and said, *Wow, she's pretty good. Maybe we should look into this!" Friedman recalled.

They did, and before long Friedman had her own tennis coach to help her improve her strokes and perfect her skills on the court.

After being privately coached for some time and refining her tennis strokes, it was time for her to become part of the MVTA, the Missouri Valley Tennis Association, where she would move away from local tournaments and compete against junior tennis players from Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

"I kept getting better and better, and started playing against other kids from outside Nebraska," she said.

Her tennis career had commenced, which brought with it some issues she had to face.

"I had played other sports as a young child, and 1 had to mate a decision as to whether I wanted to pursue tennis seriously," she noted. "That meant I couldn't really play other sports, and a lot of my time was being consumed by practice and tourna-

ments, but it was paying off."

Competing in interstate sports is a great honor in itself, but Friedman proceeded to win against everyone she played until she was ranked in the top spot in Nebraska, and occupied a spot in the top five players of the MVTA. Once she had made it to the top five, Friedman began her travels in the winter every year to compete in the national tournament, the USTA, United States Tennis Association.

Year after year she played against other young tennis players like herself in national tournaments, and eventually achieved her' goal of being ranked among the top 120 players in the nation.

During this time, Friedman also played for Central High School from 1994-97, and continued to play with the MVTA. All of this made for a year round sporting spectacle of training, practice and tournaments.

"Central really helped me to be able to train more," Friedman added. "I was allowed to lift weights during school hours, as well as leave early to go to practice. Practicing and playing tennis is really something which takes a great amount of self-motivation because ifs an individual sport."

After graduating from Central in 1997, Friedman was recruited by the University of Missouri to play for their tennis team, and offered a full athletic scholarship.

"Playing for Missouri is a lot of fun, but is also a lot of work," Friedman said. "During the winter, we practice for a couple hours in the morning, then in the afternoon we lift weights and work on conditioning.

"In the spring and fall, we have practice every afternoon for three hours, followed by weight training. Plus, I go to class somewhere in there," she said with a smile. "But all of this work is worth it.

"I'm involved in a different way of playing tennis at school. It's more team oriented for me now, rather than an individual sport, so it is helping me experience other aspects of the game."

Although tennis is fun and challenging, it also helped Friedman in areas other than athletics.

Championship tennis player Andrea Friedman was recruited by the University of Missouri and offered a full scholarship to play on their tennis team.

"Besides being a good tennis player, I learned a lot about balancing time. I came into college knowing how to budget my time wisely~to do well in my classes and have room for other time-consuming activities. I have done very well academically, and I feel that tennis helped me achieve this."

(Continued on page 44)

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Page 44 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

The ball is in her court

Helping students

(Continued from page 42) Her goal during high school was to make it to the top 120 tennis players in the country. She has since achieved this, as well as her next goal-to get a

by Melissa Katzman scholarship and play in Division One college tennis.

There are many words and phrases that come to "During my freshman year of college,' I had mind when thinking about Susan Katzman's reached my goals in tennis and I sort of wondered career... "helping kids and adults to realize their what to do next," Friedman stated. "So I re-evaluatdreams", "making a difference in the classroom", ed things and set some new challenges, like win"resolving psychological conflicts". The list continning a certain amount of tournaments, or doing ues; it's one that doesn't end. something with my team."

Her job isn't easy, but she has the intelligence, She said that when playing any sport, it's imporleadership skills, and ingenuity to do it well. tant to be motivated to achieve the greatest possiThe daughter of Maury and Madeline Katzman , ble outcome of the game. she grew up in Omaha where she was active in the "To play tennis, I think it helps to be more of an Jewish youth groups and attended Central High independent person because it's an individual School. sport.

"Central was great and had excellent teachers.

"Sports today, especially women's sports, are However, it was a school that prepare me for colreally becoming much more popular and being lege, not necessarily for a career," she recalled.

So she went to the University of Wisconsin in taken just as seriously as men's sports," she added.

Madison not quite knowing what to study. Her "There are so many opportunities in any sport, and father stressed to her that she get a degree in a it's really great to be able to participate on the colfield that was going to be not only interesting, but lege level. lucrative.

"Tennis is great, but I think girls can and should She was strongly leaning toward law school but get more involved in any sport." decided instead to pursue a. teaching career. In In addition to her outstanding tennis abilities, 1968, she graduated with a B.A. in English and in Friedman recently achieved another goal-receiving History. To further her knowledge, she also the elite Academic All-Big 12 award, based on received an M.A. in both History and Education, as grade-point-average and participation in varsity well as a teaching certificate, the following year. sports.

Her time in Madison was finished and she moved She's also been honored with a large array of to St. Louis where, after receiving an Administraother awards during her high school and now her tion Certificate from the University of Missouri, college career.

Andrea Friedman received the Top Scholar she immediately began teaching high school social Being motivated on the court proves, in this case, Athlete Award in Tennis from the Greater studies in the St. Louis Public School system. . that playing sports can really help time manage- Omaha Sports Committee in 1997.

From 1969 until 1978, she taught a number of ment and setting priorities in life. high school classes, including journalism yearbook, Andrea Friedman has that motivation within her English, sociology, history, and psychology. and it has helped her achieve success, on and off She taught such a range of subjects to so many the tennis court. . different kids in the school system that "when I (Continued on page 45)

L'Sfoamfa Tovafa GREETINGS rftOM Tilt BOARD Of DIRECTORS: Joe GUSB, President; Leon Wintroub, vice-president and Treasurer; Al Feldman, Secretaty; Jerry Gordman, Dan Greenfield, Joe Kirsbenbaum, Morris Kutler, Paul Sbyken, Louie Fedman and Sam Fedman, Board Members

September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 45

people tell them that they won't succeed," she said.

(Continued from page 44) visited Susan in St. Louis, we used to see kids and "Kids want to be challenged in school, in life, and if parents who showed her such warm appreciation they are given negative messages, then" ability to for her teaching," her mother said about her daugh- overcome challenges and their desire to succeed ter. "She made such an impact on young people in does indeed decline to a point where it's difficult to : ; St. Louis. Kids who didn't really have much direc- rise up again;" She tries, through a myriad of programs with corpotion in the classroom, Susan really influenced to rate and college personnel, to help kids sort out probhead in the right direction."

In 1979, there was an opening in the public school lems, and she thinks if 8 imperative that the parents system for a unit director of a program called Career take an interest in their children. Katzman works Education. Katzman ended her teaching career and with teachers and administrators in the public schools to implement new started work with an exceland innovative programs. lent and dedicated staff.

"In this fast-paced "Career Education world, education must be aims at helping young stimulating or young people look at both perpeople will become sonal and career developbored," she added. ment in their lives," she She has published sevsaid. "The program eral articles in national shows students that journals and received a what they learn in school Guidance Professional of really applies to the the Year Award from the world beyond the walls of American Vocational the classroom. It teaches Association. Her prothem that an architect gram also received the really uses algebra on the job, and a police offi- Susan Katzman, third from right, and her staff u s - Army's USA Today s cer needs to know psy- ^ t h e Career Education Department of the St. Planning for Life Award, In chology to be successful Louis Public School System, run the largest addition to her in that line of work." career fair in the United States. career, Katzman is affiliCareer Education ated with many other works with all the public schools in 23 metropolitan organizations. She is currently President of the St. Louis school districts. It also draws on corporate Board of Directors for the St. Louis Community and college resources, according to Katzman, Credit Union "and involved with National Council of Jewish Wom'eiras Vice-president for Retailing (for involving more than 2500 people.

"One project, Careers on Wheels, takes place at their Thrift Shop). She's also Secretary of the elementary schools," Katzman said. "Community Private Industry Council for the city of St. Louis, and city vehicles like fire trucks or highway line- which controls the money flow, from the Departpainters are brought in and kids are exposed first- ment of Labor, to be used for job training. The list hand to the job world. It lets them see that people goes on; last year, she was named to the can do anything and not be stereotyped by sex. Leadership St. Louis program.

"I really feel good about the things I do here, but Men can be nurses; women can be mail carriers.

"On the middle and high school levels, the stu- one of my favorite jobs is consulting, in St. Louis as dents are heavily exposed to the corporate world, well as in other cities," Katzman noted. "I do train'r|md tothfr college campuses," she "added: *We want ' ing for corporations and boards of directors in conto give them even more of an idea as to what they flict resolution, communications skills, diversity, racism, and business-education relationships." want to do with their futures."

She makes an impact on people all over but feels "- Career Ed also focuses in the high schools on selfesteem, decision making and consequences of actions. that her challenge really came from Omaha.

The biggest educational challenge I had was keeping According to Katzman, these issues are obstacles that sometimes block a young student from indulging in my little brothers in line," she said half jokingly.

"Growing up in Omaha was great There were so many newfieldsof study or career choices.

There are many more projects which Career Ed kids around, and we used to go across the street after conducts, including an elaborate annual Career high school to the old JCC downtown. It was the hangFair held at the convention center and involving out Omaha was about making lifelong friendships."

Katzman feels that she has done her job to the more than 12,000 students and 1000 businesspeople. Her staff also writes and publishes curriculum best of her ability, with the help of a professional caring staff. guides for every grade level.

"Through the years I have sharpened a lot of Although everything was running smoothly, in 1997, Katzman had an opportunity to take a new skills: public speaking, writing, and people skills. It job as the Divisional Director for Career and has been challenging but what I've learned most is Vocational Education in the school system. It still that you must keep a sense of humor."

If she decides to take an early retirement in a few involved Career Ed, but added many other responsibilities, including vocational education, and GED years, it will not be because she is tired of her job, but because there are other things she would love and literacy programs.

She's excited for the fall term to begin as there is a to be able to do.

"I would love to do training full time, or open a new pilot program to be tested in the high schools.

"There are too many kids dropping out of high combination restaurant and bookstore," she said school these days, so we are starting a program wistfully. "I'd also like to be a DJ on the radio. called Career Academies to create schools within Whatever it is, it will keep me busy."

Katzman is very modest about her difficult job. schools," she explained. "The academies will consist of a few hundred students based around a similar What she does has such an impact on all kinds of career interest. Through this program, students people, from young kids to college students to peowill have exposure to career and college possibili- ple in the business world. Her belief is that you should contribute in a way that leaves the world a ties in their field of interest." ' "So many kids grow up in environments where little bit better than how you found it. t. •• - -i.*."* j •« *- T-**

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'Always something to do'

by Bert Lewis

Writing a story about Toby Kagan shouldn't be difficult, especially for me, for more than one reason. First of all, she's my friend and I know a lot about her. Also, I've done it before....several times.

Over the years, there has always been something of interest to write about her, because she was always involved in a project worth writing about.

To begin, her name and Beth El Synagogue were almost synonymous for some 22 years. You might remember going into the office of the old Beth El on 49th and Farnam and finding her, or calling the shul for some reason and hearing her voice. If you had business there, she undoubtedly could handle it-whatever it was!

An old J e w i s h P r e s s story described her as "everything from Secretary, Director, Hostess, Complaint Department, Counselor, Budget Director, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Consultant, Schedule Planner and Bulletin Editor." When she retired in 1974, she planned to "devote my time to my family and do some volunteer work." Yes, those were her plans.

From the flurry of activity which followed the retirement, it's evident that she was able to make good on her intentions—at least on the part that mentioned "volunteer work." She tells about being approached to organize some kind of outreach program at the synagogue. That suggestion turned into the formation of the Walk-In Drop-In Project, which became an offshoot of the Older Adult Program, led by Mollie Delman.

This project was tremendously successful and became an integral part of the Outreach Program.

Toby's reputation as knowledgeable, caring and vitally interested in the seniors of the Jewish community made her a natural choice for service on the then newly formed Bureau For the Aging Board of Directors; To quote an old cliche, the rest is history.

Just as her name was once synonymous with Beth El, so it became with "the Home." After the new Blumkin Home was built, Kagan continued her work with Delman and the two of them were a force to reckon with, when it concerned those programs they directed. Suffice it to say, they created the nucleus of the successful operation which.runs to this day.

This is only one part of the career Kagan made

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out of her "retirement." She's done many things for many people, including volunteer work outside the Jewish community. She has belonged to Hadassah "since I got married in 1940," and NCJW; she was active in the Sisterhood at Beth El, including service as President, served on the JCC and the Federation Boards and worked on Campaign "every year since forever."

For many years she maintained an active involvement with her synagogue, doing committee and Board work. She did whatever anybody asked her to do and a great deal more. Which is probably why she has such a hard time dealing with the very quiet life she leads today.

Toby's beloved husband, George, died in October of 1996, and she finds life very different without him. This very active and energetic woman has too many quiet hours to suit her these days. She is an avid reader, but even books don't quite fill her time. She regrets never learning to drive a car because transportation can pose a problem when she'd like to "go out to the Home."

For a while she maintained a volunteer connection at the Home, helping with Bingo and leading a current events group. She also helped out in the Library, one of her favorite places.

She said, wistfully, "I'd still like to be involved in something. I have the energy and I know the importance of keeping the mind occupied."

Kagan spoke about...."keeping the mind occupied." She fully understands the theory of exercising the brain. She practices it too, and said, "I do all my own book work and paper work, I take care of my own checks." And from her conversation, she reads and keeps up with happenings' in the world today, ready for a discussion on this politician or that world figure at the drop of a hat.

"I really can't complain'," Kagan •added. "I'm very thankful for reasonably good health and that I can be in charge of my home and myself." But it's very quiet in her house and when she compares her life now with the way it once was, she says "it's a different ballgame now". Still, she doesn't complain.

Her joy is in her family-son Jim, a practicing psychiatrist who lives with his wife and daughter, Lucy, in Fort Collins, CO, and granddaughter, Kim Kahn, who lives in Omaha with husband, Marc, and the apples of Toby's eye, great-grandsons,

Toby Kagan and her husband, George.

Nathan and Zachary. Another granddaughter, Kathy Kagan, lives and works in New York.' ' J Photographs of Kagan's family are prominently displayed in her apartment, and she lights up with pleasure as she shows them to visitors, a proud great-grandma.

My friend Toby is quieter these days, but if you know how, you can find the right way to snap her to attention and get an animated conversation going.

Just mention the current news stories about the man in the White House, and then sit back and listen.

Suddenly, the old Toby is there, expressing her opinions and leaving nothing to the imagination.

She has had thousands of words written about her, she's been the recipient of who knows how many awards, certificates and countless honors and recognition. She's given of herself immeasurably.

Years ago I wrote about her and referred to her as a special asset to the Jewish community of Omaha.

I stand by my earlier statement. That's why she's been included in the list of women who have been singled out as having distinguished themselves in some way. The Jewish population of this city, and most especially the older citizens, will always remember this lady, and her tireless efforts on their behalf. .

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September 18,1998 Jowish.PirosSfOmahayNE Sage47

When a leader leads

by Courtney Rabb

After her son was born with long term special needs, Friedman began to create opportunities within programs like pre-school and camp where none existed.

• "To date, we have implemented a special needs curriculum within the education system that now serves more than 100 students, supports a youth group open to teens and adults, and offers a family support project," she said.

• She continues her efforts, however, so that one day, an independent living facility for Jewish adults can be created.

When you hear the name Beth Friedman, the word "volunteer" is never far behind it. For the past 15 years, she has been a volunteer for countless organizations in a career that began in 1983.

"After I had my first son, Alan, I began looking for something to do and to.find a way to get involved," Friedman explained.

B'nai B'rith Women (now known as Jewish Women International) was just the place.

Friedman served as Vice-president of Programming in 1984, Vice-president of Membership in 1985, and, in 1986, became President.

She also served at the regional level as a member of the Board of Directors. She is still involved with this organization and currently serves as Vice-president of Fundraising.

In 1987, Friedman began her involvement in the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska.

"This was one of the most significant experiences in my life," Friedman recalled. "Over a seven year period, I had the incredible opportunity of moving the organization from granting seven wishes my first year to 250 wishes in 1994."

She started with five volunteers and they worked to make the organization a credible one, so that the community-at-large and the medical community would begin to support it. Her efforts worked! The organization expanded to 250 state-wide volunteers, including three divisional offices.

"It was this organization that taught me the 'ins and outs' of being an effective communicator, facilitator and leader," Friedman added.

During her work with The Make-A-Wish Foundation, Friedman continued to volunteer in the community. One of those organizations was an especially important onetoher.

"The most rewarding of my volunteer experiences has been my involvement in developing a special The cast and crew of The Magic ofMishpocha needs education and support system -within the gave Beth Friedman flowers for her work as Jewish community," Friedman explained.

Production Manager.

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Throughout her career of volunteerism, Friedman has also been involved with the American AIDS Committee, the American Diabetes Association, Beth El Synagogue, the Jewish Federation of Omaha, the Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Cultural Arts Council, B'nai B'rith Youth Organization, and National Council of Jewish Women, Omaha Section.

Friedman is currently the president-elect for NCJW, a member of the Beth El Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors of the JCC, and is a member of the Special Needs Committee for the Jewish Educational and Library Services. She has also been selected for the 1998-99 Leadership Omha class, sponsored by the Omaha Chamber of Commerce.

Her hard work has not gone unnoticed. She was named the Lois Jean Schrager Young Leader by the Federation in 1996 and Volunteer of the Year in 1997 for Beth El Synagogue. However, Friedman does not volunteer for the awards.

"I love seeing the end result and the benefits that others receive," she said. "I also love volunteering for a Jewish women's organization, because we all tend to bring similar life experiences.

"We share our common ties and identity through our Judaism allowing us to accomplish great things," explained Friedman.

Friedman and her husband, Morris, also have another son, Michael. While growing up, Friedman looked up to Martin Luther King, Jr. because he was never afraid to purse his dreams.

To those whose dream it is to volunteer, Friedman advised, "Do it because it feels good.

There is no feeling more special or a greater sense of satisfaction than seeing a smile on the face of someone whom you have helped."

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A woman behind the scenes j .

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Gail Handleman grew up in' a -household where politics and current events were discussed at the,, dinner table. '; Renee and Moe Handleman taught their three children that they needed to be awaraof what was happening in the world, who was running for office, and who got elected.' So, it was no surprise when Gail started volunteering for United States Senator Dennis DeConcini while she was still a Journalism student at the University of Arizona.

She had been involved in student government while she had attended Burke High School, so she was a n a t u r a l for the internship with Sen. DeConcini that followed.

In 1988, after working in Washington fora trade association, Gail decided to go back into the political arena and she accepted a job with former congressman Peter Hoagland in Omaha. Hoagland was running for the open congressional seat which had been vacated by Hal Daub.

Gail considers her mother, Renee, to be more of a "Woman of Valor" than herself. She is proud of her family heritage here in Omaha. She says she learned the work ethic from her parents.

"Maybe I learned it a little too well. Sometimes, I work seven days a week. This is what happens when you love what you do," she said jokingly.

She served as press secretary to Hoagland during his campaign, and she went to Washington, D.C., to serve in that position. Handleman worked for Congressman Hoagland off and on from 1988 until 1994. She returned to Omaha in 1990 and 1992 to manage his successful re-election campaigns.

After the 1992 election, she moved to Chicago because she wanted to work in politics full-time without having to move to Washington, D.C. She joined The Strategy Group, a public affairs and political consulting firm.

Among her clients were Dawn Clark Netsch, the Democratic gubernatorial nominee in Illinois. She joined Netschs' campaign in the primary, when Netsch had come from behind to clinch the top spot.

She continued to serve as the Communi-cations Director during the general election in 1994. ' Handleman tried her hand in the private sector when she served as Marketing Director at the American Marketing Association. While she found the work interesting, she soon chose to go back to politics. In 1996, she joined the Democratic media consulting firm of Joe Slade White and Company, where she worked as a media consultant during a

of congressional races. In July of 1997, Handleman became the campaign manager for Dan Hynes, the Democratic nominee for State Comptroller of Illinois in the November election.

"I'm excited to be working to help elect a candidate with a fresh perspective and a commitment to bringing young people into the political process."

She is perplexed because Americans, as a whole, don't take advantage of the opportunity to vote and laments that people line up for the privilege to vote in other countries.

•••-.-..

Handleman loves what she does and she is particularly pleased to be working for Dan Hynes because he is only 30 years old and running for statewide office for the first time. She believes in her candidate because he has mobilized young voters, but concerned because many young voters are not interested in the political process.

She proclaims herself to be a "behind the scenes" type of person. What she does is like making the news before the rest of the world tunes in. This allows her to impact change. She enjoys the election process, but doesn't always go to work for the candidates after they are elected.

"Thatfs not what it's all about. I like to be the person in the background."

Handleman is concerned that so many Americans are disengaged from the political process. She thinks they have good reason because it's likely they only hear from their elected officials-or the government-when it comes to tax or election time.

Although Chicago is home for her, Handleman says she misses the Omaha Jewish community.

"Chicago is probably the place where 111 stay. If I can't live in Omaha, this is the next best place," she stated.

"I've lived in Arizona, New York, Washington, D.C, Nebraska and Illinois.

"There is one thing that has been consistent in each of these places. The Jewish community is engaged and they have strong opinions. They vote and they have strong opinions. They vote, contribute financially, and volunteer," Handleman noted, "This makes me proud of my heritage." ; ' ' ; • Handlemari'says' she1 always' takes time' to visit" with young people. She especially likes to visit withJ young women who are interested in politics. She is1 convinced that, while many say that politics is 1 mostly for men, there are scores of women who are involved and influential-some publicly--and others, like herself, behind, the scenes.".

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September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 49

by Bert Lewis If you want to know how a graduate of Northwestern University with a B.S. in Journalism (and a few years of working on a newspaper) turns into a practicing attorney, sit down and talk to lisa Lewis.

Clearly, writing, reporting and general investigation as of a news story or special feature interested her after college graduation in 1970. In fact, there was enough interest to aim her to a job with the (then) Sun Newspapers, which she recalls as a fulfilling and happy experience.

Today, however, she's a buBy attorney, so again the question— why did she decide to leave work in an area she really liked? And what turned her to the direction of law?

Lisa Lewis and her son, Travis.

Lewis explained that the paper was doing a feature on the Dean of the Law School at Creighton domestic relations problems, such as divorce, cusUniversity, Stephen Frankino. As she became tody hearings, paternity suits and wills." acquainted with him, she found she was more than a On a lighter note she remarked, "I even tried an little interested in law, as a career. She described him alienation of affections suit", but says that won't as being supportive of women (who were just begin- occur again because the law no longer exists. ning to be seen as students in the Law School), and he Handling divorce cases, lisa says "can be so chalwas helpful when she later applied for admission. lenging. There is so much involved, they can be so The career change decision did not come easily. traumatic, so personal." She says rarely is there "I really liked what I was doing at the newspaper, such a thing as a simple divorce. "There's a great, but I began to wonder if I should continue at the deal of emotion the lawyer must help the client Sun or perhaps look at other media," Lewis noted. work through" so she feels divorce work is truly a Ultimately, after a great deal of soul searching, demanding specialty. «he decided to apply for entrance to the law school.

Her office has a contract with Sarpy County to She was accepted after a short while on a waiting represent both children and parents in Juvenile list, then opted to postpone for a year, after being Court, including neglect, abuse and criminal cases. told her place would be held.

Listening to her speak of custody trial work, it When the school year began in 1974, Lewis was becomes clear this is an area which she invests a firmly in place as a first year law student. She com- great deal of her energy. pleted her studies and graduated in 1977, and "This is different from any other practice. Here that's how a journalist became a lawyer. we're dealing with lives, with families, with personShe spoke warmly of CreightoifXaw School and al issues," she said. "This isn't just a matter of the influence the Omaha Jewish community has making a point.. .this is real!" had on it, citing Jewish deans Rodney Shkolnick In addition to the usual caseload, lisa Lewis is and Larry Raful, as well as significant gifts and one of the lawyers who takes appointments from endowments made by local Jews. Many Jewish Planned Parenthood on Judicial Bypass cases. This attorneys, both past and present, are graduates. involves representing young women under the age After graduation, Lewis worked for a short time of 18 who want to terminate a pregnancy without for another attorney, but in January of 1980, she first getting parental approval. The attorney is opened her own private practice. When asked to expected to thoroughly investigate whether the talk about the kind of law she practices, she said, "I woman has truly examined every, issue and • do tivil work, no criminal cases. I handle a lot of whether she is mature enough to have made an

acceptable choice. The decision is left to a judge, who hears the testimony of the young woman and the recommendation of the attorney.

Lewis does not take this particular part of her practice lightly. She feels tremendous responsibility in helping a situation like this come to a viable conclusion, making "sure the client knows of proper fpllowup procedures, including education and information to help avoid such predicaments in the future." ':'Many parts of the type of law she practices are'not particularly, lucrative, but she finds a great deal of gratification in place of monetary rewards. She takes pleasure in helping a family untangle problems which were creating crisis situations and feels more than small satisfaction when the outcome of a custody hearing seems to be best for the child.

As she speaks of such things, the listener must assume this is a very family-oriented woman. Her interest in the people she represents appears to be personal, certainly more than "client-attorney". She takes the business of being a lawyer very seriously, noting that while it's getting better, "it's still a tough profession for a woman."

She tells of the extra care she takes in her appearance when she goes to court. The woman attorney must be sure she "doesn't look too frilly or unprofessional."

She is careful to be certain her voice is well modulated, never shrill, always under control. "Its still a challenge to be a woman in law today," she added.

Like other career women, she has a life away from her office. In private, she's the wife of Omaha businessman Dennis Lewis, owner of Spirit World.

She's also the mother of Travis, who is a freshman at Washington University in St. Louis. Her parents are Audrey and Morris Shapiro, native Omahans.

This busy lady finds time to serve on various boards, like Planned Parenthood, Temple Israel, Omaha Area Youth Orchestra board and the AntiDefamation League. She also taught Communications law at the University of Nebraska at Omaha for several years, emphasizing "first amendment law". l i s a Shapiro Lewis must be counted among this community's outstanding Jewish women. She haB distinguished herself in her chosen field and continues to work for the betterment of her fellow citizenB. She uses the word "fun" often when speaking about what Bhe does. That seems a valuable perk for a lady with such a serious occupation.

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Page 60 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

Jewish. renewal on a small scale

by Carol Katzman

Growing up in Champaign-Urbana, IL, Hollis Glaser's anchor was her family and her Temple.

Involvement in the small, cohesive Jewish community of this mid-state college town was definitely a family affair. Both her parents, Annette and Milton Glaser, were active in Temple, as were Hollis' brothers, Steve and Bart.

Summers were spent at Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute, the Reform movement's camp, where Glaser met Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Elyce Azriel and Faith Rogow, author of Gone to Another Meeting, the early history of the National Council of Jewish Women.

All of that early involvement led to Glaser making a new connection with the Jewish community in Omaha after her arrival in 1992. Hired as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, she's now tenured and already thinking about her sabbatical.

After experimenting with Omaha's congregations, Glaser joined Beyt Shalom, Omaha's newest congregation and newest movement in Judaism, the Reconstructionist Federation. Within a short time, Glaser was serving on committees and the board; today, she is President of the congregation.

"Beyt Shalom is a small, intimate, friendly congregation," Glaser said, "It's the kind of place where a potluck havdallah is the rule rather than the exception."

She describes Beyt Shalom, and indeed, the Reconstructionist movement, as "liturgically Conservative" but "politically, more progressive than any of the others."

The Reconstructionist movement, according to Glaser, is more diverse philosophically than people understand. There's a great emphasis on ritual, yet the movement was the first to ordain women as rabbis and cantors.

Though Beyt Shalom has used the services of several student rabbis in the past two years, this year they will be without a full-time rabbi, the first time

Shalom is still looking for a full-time rabbi.

"A rabbi is more than a spiritual leader," Glaser said. "She or he has educational and pastoral duties and also serves as a presence, both for members of our congregation and for the community."

In the meantime, however, she and other volunteers, like Marti Nerenstone, Mike Salmi and Alice Weiss, lead services, plan holiday events and teach children and adults.

"In a sense, we're like a havurah," noted Glaser, explaining that the havurah movement of small • groups of Jews coming together to worship and experience holidays has fed the growth of the Reconstructionist movement, too.

"Part of that growth also stems from the Jewish renewal movement," she added. "While Reconstructionism came out of the Conservative movement, Jewish Renewal actually emerged from the Hasidic communities."

Rabbi Zalman Schacter-Shalomi, a former Lubavitch rebbe, is the leader of this loosely-structured group and actually serves as a role model to many student rabbis at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. Both Shalomi's shul, Fnai Or, and the RRC are located in Philadelphia.

Glaser does not limit herself to involvement in just Beyt Shalom. Last year, Elyce Azriel, director of Temple Israel's High School, asked Glaser to teach the Panim el Panim (Face to Face) curricu-* him to the group of high school seniors.

She brought in three women whose children had been shot and killed, yet who spoke against the death penalty. The presentation was followed by a discussion on Jewish texts related to the death penalty.

Panim el Panim ended with a four-day trip to Washington, D.C. Glaser accompanied the group which met with the Nebraska congressional delegation, policy makers, rabbis and Jewish activists.

Glaser will continue to teach this group in the second year of the Panim el Panim program.

H (Continued on page 51)

Hollis Glaser shows off her newly-planted apple tree at her Omaha home. since Rabbi Ruth Ehrenstein was spiritual leader.

"Rabbi Myer Kripke has graciously offered to help with our congregational needs," Glaser noted, "and will even be teaching, a Sunday affprnoon course, starting in October, ;on Introduction to Hebrew Scriptures.

"He was, as many people know, a student of Rabbi Mordechai Kaplan, the founder of Reconstructionist thought," Glaser added. "And we're very excited about adding him to our teaching staff."

Currently Maya Wertheimer and Rini Gonsher teach in Beyt Shalom's religious school, which meets on Sunday mornings and Tuesday afternoons at the Jewish Community Center. And Beyt

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Jewish renewal (Continued from page 50) Glaser's "other" life is at UNO. There, she teaches several classes each semester: "Power of Images," with Mike Gillespie from the Department of Humanities, and Gary Day of Pine Arts; "Introduction to Qualitative Methodology;" and "Persuasion," "Interviewing," and "Small Group Decision Making" will be her course load in the spring. She also supervises graduate students and sits in on thesis committees.

Glaser wrote her doctoral thesis on egalitarian groups and how they organize. She's extended that initial paper into her work with "sustainable communities."

From Nebraska farmers who grow organic vegetables to scientists trying to develop renewable resources, Glaser is interviewing and studying their interaction in the hopes that one day, Omaha "will show community support for agriculture.

"Think about it," she urged. "As we've become more urbanized, we've gotten further away from the sources of our food, water and of course, the land. We need to start thinking about farmer's markets, mass transit on a local scale, dealing with waste products and distribution of food."

In a sense, Glaser is interested in connecting people in this world as much as she is within the Jewish world. If it's bashert, meant to be, Glaser will get her chance to see if these two worlds overlap--the academic and the Jewish—by spending time.exploring the Jewish component of "sustainable communities."

"My core values are Jewish," Glaser stated. "But it's definitely had an impact on my academic life."

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There are many people in this world who seek great fame and fortune just to have the glory of being famous. However, there are also a great number who do things.for the non-monetary rewards. ; ' Rachel Shukert is determined to excel in the area of acting simply because she derives great pleasure from it. Her respect for the world of drama and everything that goes along with it is one of the things that sets her apart from the rest.

"My interest in acting began when I was only eight or nine years old," Shukert recalled. "I remember trying out for Fiddler on the Roof at the JCC and not getting a part. It was disappointing but then I landed a part in a play at the Emmy Gifford Theater and that proved to me that if I stayed determined, I could have a future in acting."

From this experience, Shukert decided to continue trying out for various productions around the Omaha area. She enjoyed working with different people and overall, she found acting to be an exciting hobby.

When Rachel was 11, she was selected to play the part of "Lucy" in The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe at the Emmy Gifford Children's Theater.

"After this production, I really decided that I wanted to pursue acting as a professional career in the future," she said. "I had an important role in this play and got the chance to act and use my talents."

Shukert not only learned how to use her talents in plays, but she also learned how time consuming it was to be in1 "one. Sometimes she would miss school for a few days to be in a production geared for young children, and other' times she wouldn't get home from play practices until 1 a.m. Even though she was tired, and had less time to finish homework, she kept acting, and the desire to perfect her craft kept her on stage.

"Through the years, I learned so much from my experiences in different types of plays and with people. Acting made me grow up faster and taught me a lot about the adult world," Shukert noted. "It's important to

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By the time she was 16, Shukert had been in more than 10 productions and had also learned to improve her skills as a student in the Performing Arts Academy and as a member of the Omaha Theater Company.

She was in such performances as Annie, Peter Pan, Sweet Charity, Rebel Without a Cause, and Picasso at the Lapin Agile. Her productions took place at the Emmy Gifford Theater, Central High School, the Rose Blumkin Performing Arts Center and the Omaha Community Playhouse.

As far as inspiration goes, Shukert doesn't really have a favorite actor or actress.

"I think it's dangerous to get too involved in following the talents of one person because everyone has different capabilities," she said. "Someone might try to follow an actor who works in a way that doesn't fit with what that person has to offer (Continued on page 52)

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A truly talented story (Continued from page 51) the drama world. I admire not a specific person, but an actor's ability to be versatile."

There are so many roads to take in the acting world; one should know what kinds of productions he or she wants to get involved with.

"Being a good actor is also being a good critic, and knowing what projects you should commit yourself to and which ones are not worth your time and energy," Shukert explained. "I have learned how to recognize talent and involve myself with good people who are really going to get something off the ground."

Shukert has had many good experiences throughout her journey, but one of the plays she really enjoyed working on was the Sound of Music at the Dundee Dinner Theater in 1992. She said that i t wasn't that the play was so successful, but her time spent with the cast that was most rewarding.

Shukert remembers feeling very comfortable and, close with the people in the play, and it's important to feel at ease, especially in the field of acting.

One of her more recent roles was in the play Quills, which premiered at the Blue Barn here in Omaha.

"This was definitely the biggest challenge I have had as an actress so far. It was a difficult and complex role, and I learned from this that I was able to take more risks than I thought possible and wind up with wonderful results," she added. "I got to work with outstanding and talented people in this intense, controversial piece."

This play was the beginning of Shukert's move from children's theater to performing for an older, more mature audience.

In hearing about all of these accomplishments, one can't help but be impressed with Shukert's work. She agrees.

"There isn't really one performance that I feel has been my greatest accomplishment, but rather I am most proud of the fact that I stayed with acting for such a long time," she said. "For many people, acting is just a phase, or a fun thing to try, but for me,

With everything she learned from her past experience, Rachel also credits her parents, Martin and Aveva Shukert.

T h e y were there for me when I. needed them, but as far as acting, they never really pushed me to be so involved in the performances," she said proudly. "This is a good thing for me and I thank them for that, because it made me do more things as an individual and helped me to realize that I really did want to pursue acting as a career, not because they made me.

"If parents are too involved, it almost overshadows the child's own accomplishments."

Rachel Shukert's talent and dedication will most definitely take her in directions she probably hasn't even thought of herself.

We can learn a lesson from her. determination to try new things and feel proud of our own accomplishments. If she continues to grow, we will someday see her smiling face on the big screen.

Rachel Shukert performed in many local productions.

I really feel that this one thing in my life which I have consistently devoted myself to, and reached a level that I feel proud of."

Shukert has left for the actor's dream-land, New York, where she will attend New York University's Tisch School of the Arts as a freshman.

She is unsure of what lies ahead in her future, but knows that many doors in the acting world will be opened to her. Through her new journey in the Experimental Theater Wing and many performance training classes, she wants to absorb as many new techniques as possible to help her excel even more in her acting career.

Shukert sincerely plans to make her living doing what she loves to do-acting especially, but perhaps even directing productions. Whatever she does, it is not for the fame and money. She is truly a girl who is determined to try her hardest and make the best out of every situation.

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You could say Joanie Jacobson's career in theater began when she was nine years old, starring in neighborhood shows. However, it wasn't until ten years later that she decided to make drama her profession.

"I was a sophomore at Ohio State University sitting in a botany class learning about a leaf, and it was then that I realized college was not for me," Jacobson states.

She later transferred to the Goodman Theater School of Drama, and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a major in directing.

After graduating, Jacobson joined the Free Street Theater Project of the Illinois Arts Council. The group toured within the city of Chicago and throughout Illinois. It brought musical theater to people who otherwise would never have experienced it. While performing on the street with the Jacobson gives last-minute instructions to company, a gang opened fire and Jacobson was the cast of The Magic ofMishpocha. shot; however she returned three months later. for others. My greatest mentor and most outOne of the street theater's creations was an origi- model standing was Patrick Henry, the director of nal puppet show. The ABC affiliate in Chicago the Free teacher Street Theater, said Jacobson. "All of the heard about the puppet show and ran it as a series things I know arefromhim." for two seasons.

However, her role model was Leota Keir, her best Jacobson played the part of a little girl named mom. She directed the neighborhood shows "Susie Streetnoise" along with her puppet co-stars. friend's of her girlhood.

ThiB show always conveyed a social message.

"She encouraged me, gave me opportunities to be "I was a member of the project for three years creative, and most importantly, made me feel like I and then went on to write and produce educational had talent," Jacobson recalled. "I hope one day to filmstrips before later marrying Richard Jacobson be someone else's Leota. and moving to Omaha," Jacobson recalls.

"I have been able to do so many-things in After starting her family, Jacobson began to write and direct shows for synagogues and other Jewish Omaha," she added. "Had I stayed in Chicago, I never would have been able to do all of them. groups.

"I was lucky enough to be given this gift and Today, Bhe and her husband have two grown share it with this Jewish community. It is my condaughters, Carrie, a graduate of Emerson College in Boston who now works for the worldwide adver- tribution to my Jewishness and what I can givetising agency, Chiat Day, in Los Angeles, and back to Omaha."

Maggie, a sophomore at the University of Texas in Austin.

Jacobson's work also includes shows for dedications, anniversaries of organizations, and musical entertainment for special occasions, like weddings and bar or bat mitzvahs Some of her recent productions are Campaign Cabarets for the Jewish Federation of Omaha, the Beth El Dedication, A Sentimental Journey (which celebrated the centennial anniversary of the National Council of Jewish Women, Omaha Section); and the dedication for the Gendler Education Center, Beth El In All It's Glory.

Last month, Jacobson contributed to the community event, To Bubbe And Zayde With Love", by writing and directing a musical review, The Magic of Mishpocha, for L.O.V.E., (the League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly).

Jacobson tells those considering the field of drama to "know your strengths and what you do best, and then put your energy toward that. Do not worry about what you can't do. The most important thing is that you must love what you,do with all your heart."

Jacobson has found a way to connect what she loves to do with the Omaha community. , "My work is my play; without it, I wouldn't be me.

I love being able to instill confidence in people. It is so magical to be able to give this to people so that they can get up on stage and feel comfortable enough to Share their talents with their family and friends," explained Jacobson.

"I feel it is also important joanie Jacobson dances with choreographer Wilbert Bradley durfor me to serve as a role biff a Free Street Theater performance in 1970.

Puttin

by Rebecca Perelman

It is in Ruth Erman's nature to put the needs of others before her own. Erman, (LPC, LMHP), first demonstrated this when she agreed to move to Omaha with her husband Joe after graduating college in 1969 from the University of Iowa. After she settled in, she decided to continue her history education and attended Graduate School at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Erman's first job was substitute teaching for Omaha Public Schools. After a year and a half, she decided she would rather gain experience teaching history sections as a graduate assistant along side a professor in the history department at UNO. "It was a good experience," Erman said. "But I decided I wasn't that crazy about teaching/That experience marked the end of my teaching career."

In 1972, Erman became a mother and set aside her working days, except for volunteer work during her spare time. Her first volunteer experience was Trooping Theater, a project of the National Council for Jewish Women, Omaha Section. She and a group of women traveled around the community performing children's stories and plays at hospitals, schools, and other organizations.

She moved on to ORT, Organization for Rehabilitation through Training, a fundraising organization that sponsored vocational schools, primarily in Israel. Ennan was vice-president for several terms and has continued to volunteer over the years.

"ORT was a great learning experience for skills as a volunteer," Erman said.

Of all Erman's volunteer work, she enjoyed NCJW projects the most. From 1972 until 1989 she held numerous offices, the highest being VicePresident of Education.

"NCJW is an organization that develops a project and then turns it over to the community," Erman said. "It's appealing to people interested in longterm volunteer work because they don't become worn out from constant fundraising. NCJW does several different projects dealing with issues oh children all the way up to the elderly.'

During those" Vears'Erniari also volunteered on several boards such as the Jewish Federation, Jewish Federation Library, Jewish Family Service, as well as the Junior League of Omaha.

"A volunteer project I was involved in at the YWCA through the Junior League inspired me to go back to graduate school," Erman said. "I learned to be a facilitator for training displaced homemakers.

I facilitated a workshop to assist these women in finding training and employment, and this experience really sparked my interest."

The training Erman received provided her with a basic understanding of career counseling, and she returned to UNO to receive her masters in Guidance and Counseling in 1985. Upon graduating in December of 1987, an unexpected | illness postponed her career goal; r' Erman was diagnosed with breast ' cancer and underwent a period of chemotherapy. The treatment was a success and her health returned.

Erman returned to work as a therapist in the fall of 1989 at Family Enrichment Inc., an agency providing outpatient mental health services and consultation to the community.

"I have a general practice so I see a variety of people," Erman said. "But I will say my main clientele consists of women and children."

Along with this job, Erman has been a school counselor at a parochial school since 1990. Between both jobs she works approximately 30 hours per week.

I enjoy my career because it allows me to see people make changes in their lives," she said. "As a therapist, you assist patients in making changes, making better decisions, and helping them grow emotionally."

Erman's underlying reason for her community involvement has remained constant throughout her years of continuous work.

"Helping others is something I don't think twice about," she said.

"Whether it was through my volunteer work or Happy New Year profession, I've always

from Usha&Dan Sherman

Ruth Erman felt a need to give back to the community. It was the way I was brought up."

Erman has done her share of traveling, whether it be to Aspen, CO for a summer vacation or to Israel on a mission. In 1990, the Erman family led a UJA mission to Israel in celebration of Frieda Erman's 80th birthday. That Israel experience had an impact on her feelings towards the importance of having a strong Jewish identity. Two years later she and her husband returned on a community group mission. In 1995, Erman participated on a women's mission, where she had visited a women's shelter.

"We all realized that people in Israel have problems just like the rest of us," Erman said. "It was interesting to see counselors and practitioners addressing similar problems in similar ways."

Erman's previous Israel trips provided her with a firm understanding that people in Israel are no different than people here. This belief inspired her to continue her effort in helping others face similar challenges. Erman hopes to return to Israel in the near future to reconnect with her Jewish roots.

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Page 56 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

DOIBI

by Melissa Katzman

"Life was so simple then..." Perhaps you realize prizewinner was in Omaha. The duo also wrote One that you've heard these words somewhere. What People, One Destiny for an Israeli Independence you may not realize is that these are just a few of Day event in Omaha. That song was sung before the words among the myriad of songs Karen 3000 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Sokolof Javitch has composed. Lyricist, composer, Angeles last spring to commemorate Israel's 50th.

Since 1991, Javitch has written hundreds of writer, singer, mother...she has many titles and she songs. With the help of Elaine Jabenis and Chuck excels in all of these areas. . • At the University of Texas in 1972, Javitch Penington, she has also produced many musicals earned her degree in Elementary Education, spe- that have appeared all around the Omaha area. cializing in Special Education, and furthered her One of her Jewish musicals, From Generation to skills to work with the blind as well.

Generation, is about a grandmother giving ethical "My mother (Ruth Sokolof) worked with handi- lessons to her granddaughter. Making its debut in capped children for years and started the JP Lord 1996 and appearing again in '97, it is one that is School here in Omaha," Javitch recalled. "When I familiar and meaningful to many around the comwas younger, I used to go with her and that's what munity. Not only did the show run in Omaha, but We Extend Our Very Best Wishes got me interested in wanting to teach handicapped St. Louis, and it's about to hit Los Angeles as well.

For a Happy and Healthy New Year and blind children.

To produce a musical and make sure everything Gena and Brad Burwell "What was wonderful was that I had some of the runs smoothly as planned, Javitch noted that it is Crossroads Mall Suite 326 same students in OPS that my Mom had taught important to have a good staff.

Omaha, NE 68114 (402)397-8988 when they were little," she added. "They all "I have worked with such wonderful people remembered how nice she was to them." through the years," she said. "But Elaine and I While teaching in Omaha, a certain someone really work well together. I write the songs and caught her eye and, in 1975, she married Gary lyrics, and she writes a lot of the script and we Javitch. Three years later their daughter, Jenny, combine it all. She is a very talented woman and it's been great with her. was born, followed by Mark, and then Rachel.

"And itfs b'shert that 1 am working with Chuck.

"I decided to stop teaching and stayed home for GREEK GYROS • STEAKS PHILLIES • BURGERS 12 years to raise my children," she said. "I He takes my songs and arranges them to go with 5 absolutely loved it and felt lucky that I was able to an orchestra, which plays during the show. Chuck is part of Mannheim Steamroller and is wonderful do this."

Once Rachel had begun school full time, Javitch at what he does," she added. wanted to find something else to do.

Both Love! At the Cafe! and From Generation to #/ Food in the Midwest "My son's tennis instructor, Jim Conant, was also Generation received the Theater Arts Guild of Open 7 Days a Week a playwright on the side, and had written a musical Omaha "Best Original Script" awards.

4409 Dodge St. • 553-3326 called Love! At the Cafe!," she said. "The script was "I couldn't do any of this without my husband, finished, but there were spaces for 16 songs, so I Gary. Putting musicals together and producing asked him if I could try to write some." them is a business and he handles that aspect," she She had always been musically inclined, and added. "He's been wonderful, in producing, adverplayed guitar in college, but she never thought she tising, public relations...he is responsible for getting Generation to L.A.!" . would make a career out of her musical hobby.

"That was the start of my songwriting career," The show will be produced at a Beverly Hills synJavitch added. "It was like turning on a faucet in agogue in March of 1999. . r, my brain."

"Through Gary's efforts, we connected with the After the show's debut at the Diner Theater in musical director ihere," Javitch noted. "It happens , • Business Travel February of 1994, it received "great reviews" to be the. same synagogue to which. Steven • Personal Travel according to Javitch, and the following year, played Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw, belong! So ' • Customized Vacations it Mahoney State Park, where it was named we're hoping one of their children will be in the show."

Critics Choice by the Omaha World-Herald.

28 years of During this time, all three Javitch children were The latest Javitch-Jabenis collaboration, Princess MemoradBCe Destinations involved in Odyssey of the Mind, a world-wide Diana, the Musical, is set to premiere Sept. 25-27 problem solving competition. At the finals, Javitch at the Joslyn Art Museum. Involving a 4O-person heard the O.M. theme song and turned to her cast and a 30-song set list, the musical is about the daughter, Rachel, and said, Tm going to write you life of Princess Diana, excluding her death. a new anthem."

"I was so upset about her death I began expressShe sent her song to the O.M. national office - ing my grief by writing songs for her," Javitch and now the organization sings it at its World recalled. "After a few months, I had so many songs, I approached Elaine. She mulled it over for about Finals every year in front of 10,000 people. • Javitch also co-wrote a song for the film ornaha 10 seconds and we've been working on the show by local film director/producer Dan Mirvish, son of ever since!"

Sidney and Linda Mirvish. And she and Joanie GERMAN RESIAURANT The play stars Lisa Land as Princess Diana and Jacobson wrote two songs together, Once Upon a John-Michael Zuerlin as Prince Charles, as well as AUTHENTIC GERMAN FOOD Time, a song about the Holocaust, which Javitch Janet Wallace as Queen Elizabeth, Tom Bertino as • Schnitzel • Bratwurst • Desserts and a partner sang for Elie Wiesel when the Nobel (Continued on page 57)

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September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 57

Doing what she loves Prince Philip; Melissa Jarecke as the Queen Mum; Kristi Pederson as Fergie; and Jacque Wilke as Young Diana.

Javitch's daughter, Rachel, is also in the show, along with Danielle Burr, daughter of Marilyn Burr; and Jennifer Pinkie, daughter of David and Judy Finkle.

"It's been overwhelming and wonderful to do this musical. It's a touching and funny show about the positive and negative aspects of her life, being acted out by many talented people.

I'm really looking forward to this one!" she said with a big smile.

The proceeds of this musical will benefit the Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross, as well as the Nebraska AIDS Project. These are two of the many charities that Princess Diana supported. The proceeds of Javitch's musicals are often donated to various charities or societies which are in need of help.

In addition to the proceeds of the ticket sales, Javitch will also raffle off three Princess Diana porcelain collectible dolls, a pearl necklace and three tribute plates.

"It's great that the musicals help people financially, but I also feel that this is my way of giving something back to the Jewish community, something that people appreciate and enjoy," she added.

"Doing this musical as a benefit is my way of giving something to this community in Diana's memory. She was a giving, loving, human being, and I think that is why she is missed so much. There are many similarities

(Continued from page 56) between the way I look at Diana and the way I remember my mother," she added. "They were both altruistic people who worked with the handicapped. They both went through a lot in their lives and they both died too young.

"That is why Hope in my Heart is the Diana theme song, I had already written it for my mom," said Javitch.

"No matter what she went through,, she always had hope." • Many are good at their jobs, but also have hobbies and talents on the side.

Sometimes people are lucky to be able to make a career based on their talent.

"I'm glad I didn't find my music potential until after the kids were in school, because I couldn't have done both at the same time," Javitch said.

"I was able to teach children and try to make a difference in their lives.

Then I had children, and now I thank God for helping me progress to this point in my life where I am extremely happy doing something I love to do."

Her music definitely influences people, but she herself has had people who made a difference in her life.

"Both of my parents have influenced my life greatly. My father (Phil The Javitch family: Mark, 17, Karen, Rachel, 13, Jenny, 20, and Gary.

Sokolof) taught me much about moti- paign about lowering cholesterol and mused, "and after I am long gone, people will still be singing my songs." : vation and perseverance, especially developing healthy eating habits.

"Both of my parents have made Princess Diana, the Musical, opens because he was a talented singer," she said fondly. "Of course, he is also quite a contribution to our society," at Witherspoon Hall, Joslyn Auditorium, Sept. 25 and 26, 7:30 p.m.; known international for the work Javitch said proudly.

We all have talents and passions in Sept. 27,2 and 7 p.m. Tickets, priced he's accomplished through his life, but Javitch has made the most of from $13.50 for students and seniors, National Heart Savers Foundation. and $15 for general admission, to $25"I believe he has prolonged the lives her music.

"Besides my children, I hope that $500 for patron seats, may, be of many people through his worldwide efforts and advertising cam- music will be my legacy," Javitch obtained by calling 343-7761.

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Stiel has a real appreciation for the challenges of balancing .the demands of being a There's an old misconwife, mother and full-time ception that the assistant rabbi. rabbi gets to do every"Temple Emanuel showed thing the senior rabbi me that women could be doesn't want to do. rabbis," the rabbi recalled.

That's not the case at "I think women bring their Temple Israel. There, own unique perspective and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, talents to the rabbinate. senior rabbi for the last "And they often under10 years, and Rabbi stand women's issues better Debbie Stiel, assistant than men do," she said with rabbi since 1994, (now a smile. associate rabbi) share all "There's a nice balance at the rabbinic duties-counTemple, having a male seling, hospital visits, rabbi and a female one. It's teaching, conducting sera wonderful field for women vices and more. and we are changing the Two special areas in face of the rabbinate," she which Rabbi Stiel has acknowledged. worked closely are the "It used to be a given that Outreach Committee and rabbis worked 70-80 hours a OTYG, Temple's youth week and that their families group. came second.

"Outreach was already "If we proclaim Judaism a good program when I to be a family-oriented reliarrived," the rabbi noted, gion," she added, "then we "and we're constantly The Stiel family: Stephen, Debbie and have to set the example."

Micah. looking at improving the In speaking of Judaism's program based on meeting the needs of the people emphasis on families, Rabbi Stiel spoke of the we serve. unique role of the youth groups in the Jewish com"There are educational and social programming munity to provide "a safe, place where teens can needs we try to meet," she continued. see their peers having fun in a Jewish setting.

"However, just as importantly, Outreach serves "In addition, the teens who get involved in youth as a support group for open discussion, as a means group leadership, learn a lot of important skills," to convey to interfaith couples and individuals she has observed. "They're the ones who plan the interested in Judaism that they are welcome at programs, create the flyers, raise the funds. For Temple Israel," she added. some, it's a struggle being in a leadership position, One of the great challenges to the Outreach but most rise to the occasion.

Committee, according to Rabbi Stiel, is to provide Rabbi Stiel praised the Jewish Federation of programming that will be meaningful to both those Omaha in taking the lead to provide more funding, who are learning about Judaism for the first time of Jewish camp experiences and Israel trips, but and those who are already familiar with our reli- added, "We need to do more. . gion. The answer, it seems, has been to make sure "There are still kids in our community that can't that programs start with basic information and go participate, even with this funding, and even with beyond. scholarships," she has observed. "We also need Rabbi Stiel pointed out that even code words, like funds to send them to regional conclaves, and' "Shabbat Shalom" or "Oneg Shabbat" which are believe it or not, even to youth group programs. meaningful to those who are born Jewish may put "Having another source of funding would make a people into positions that make them feel like outhuge difference," the rabbi stated. siders, instead of making it more accessible.

When asked about the future of Judaism and her "We're trying to create an atmosphere here thats role, the rabbi responded by asking, "How does more open," Rabbi Stiel said, "as more and more belief fit in the modern world? interfaith families are integrated into our Jewish "We haven't looked seriously enough at the big community. question," Rabbi Stiel proposed. "We are the best It's both a blessing for us in that it's often the educated Jews ever secularly, but not Jewishly. non-Jewish spouse who encourages the Jewish The challenge is to educate Jews in a way that spouse to learn more about Judaism," she noted makes sense to them." "and a challenge because the non-Jewish spouse For example, Rabbi 'Stiel notes that the Jewish often has little Judaic knowledge and no Jewish community's answer to assimilation has tended "to childhood memories on which draw on in order to be adding more programs, rather than stepping create a Jewish household. back and trying to ascertain why people are turn"It does take extra work and attention for these ing away. families and individuals to feel more comfortable as "I think we need to get back to basic belief and well as for those born as Jews to become more theology.

We need to bring in the best and the ' aware and more sensitive."

And we need to look deeper," she proFor some, the Outreach Committee is like a brightest. posed., "gateway into the synagogue."

"We 'do' Judaism, instead of God," the rabbi Some members spend a period of time serving on added, "and we talk of "belonging1 instead of'believthis committee and then go on to explore volunteer ing.' opportunities in the Religious School, Sisterhood, "If we can create a great spiritual environment, Men's Club or other standing committees. people will come."

Debbie Stiel was introduced to synagogue life as If Rabbi Stiel's determination is any indication of a teenager growing up in Dallas, Texas. Her family whether not her proposals will meet with sue- . belonged to Temple Emanuel, and was very cess, theoranswer is 'yea.' This is a woman who involved in Temple activities. meets challenges, from being a woman in the rabA magna cum laude graduate of Rice University binate to making interfaith couples and growing in Houston, Rabbi Stiel received her ordination teens more comfortable in the world called from Hebrew Union College—Jewish Institute of Judaism.

Religion in 1994. In between, she was a United "Working together, we can can come up with States Naval Chaplain candidate officer in San what we want for the future."

Diego, where, in addition to her classes, she educated other chaplaincy candidates about Judaism.

Before coming to Omaha, she was a student rabbi in Ohio, South Dakota and Alabama, as well as serving as chaplain for a Jewish nursing home in Louisville, KY. Rabbi Stiel interned at North Shore Congregation Israel in Glencoe, IL. Married to Steven Stiel, they are the parents of 2w-year-old Micah (and soon to be 'Baby X"). Rabbi

by Carol Katzman

and beautiful 1/|fto.'£'far!

September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 59

'On the air'

by Carol Katzman

thoughts and making her "disciplined."

When the ABC News Department hired former At her level in the industry, she doesn't Omahan Shelley Lewis as the Overnight Editor of see many entry level broadcasters or writGood Morning America in 1992, she said, "It was ers, but she has interviewed young people like going to the Yankees!" who "just don't get it."

Though she recalled it as "being a good place to The "it" to which Lewis refers is the start" she had already made a name for herself in work ethic. And if she was to give advice broadcasting in New York City. At NBC radio to young people today interested in the news, her first employer, Lewis was a newswriter world of broadcasting, she would tell them and then News Director. She also worked on On the three things: "Expect to work ridiculously Air, in sports and features. long hours. Study history and learn how to Her big production experience came when she write. was named Senior Producer of Main Street in 1985, "Expertise in writing is one of the rarest a television show aimed at teens. From there, she skills these days, and also one of the most produced Real Life with anchor Jane Pauley. essential," she stressed.

A 1971 graduate of Central High School, Lewis Her mother, Bert Lewis, a columnist for started out at Michigan State and when a friend this paper, apparently became an expert invited her to work at-the university radio station, later in life. she was surprised by how much she liked it.

"She didn't start writing until well after "I was always a good writer," she said, "but had I was involved in my career," Lewis said. never considered a career on the air."

As she got more involved in a broadcasting Shelley Lewis, executive producer of ABC's Good "Her first career was raising four kids!" career, she began considering how to make the Morning America, with her husband, artist Dennis The 'elder" Lewis' were in New York in late spring, a trip they make a few times a move to the center of the broadcast news world, Kardon, and their daughter, Julia. year, not only to visit daughter, Shelley, New York City. The fact that her then boyfriend, with Lewis was rescheduled because of her need to Dennis Kardon, was moving there after completing line up experts on terrorism to speak on the follow- but also her younger sister, Lisa, and her husband and two sons, and their brother, Stephen, and his an undergraduate degree at Yale University was ing morning's broadcast. wife, Edith. Only one of the four Lewis children, also a "major consideration" for the move east. The two met when she was in his hometown of Des Lewis supervises a huge staff, 150 or more. And Joel, lives on the West Coast with his wife and Moines, at a BBYO convention, and he was home in addition to her planning and evaluating tasks as daughters. executive producer, she's also responsible for hir- With only a few weeks of their summer rental visiting his parents. ing, firing, budgeting and long-range planning. available, Lewis was anxious to spend as much Strengthening the midwest connection are Lewis' "It's sometimes mentally difficult to switch parents, Bert and Leonard in Omaha and Thelma gears," she said, "One minute I'm interviewing time with her husband and pre-teen daughter as Kardon in Des Moines. (Kardon's father, Fred, died guest speakers for features in the fall, the next I'm possible. Though she's linked by phone, fax and computer modem to the studio in Manhattan, she's last year.) The three grandparents are an annual interviewing potential reporters." admits that her challenging life in tv news makes draw for Lewis and Kardon and their 12-year-old Balancing "show time" and administrative duties demands on her personal life. daughter, Julia. and then "standing back to look at long range This fall, Good Morning, America will travel to From a beach house on Fire Island off the coast of plans" is not an easy task, but one she appears to Long Island, Lewis spoke of the balancing act manage deftly. She's already made many changes the west for on-site shows in California and between her intense life in broadcasting and her in Good Morning, America, though "anchor deci- Seattle. The staff also plans a February break, but unfortunately, it's "not likely to be in Nebraska" equally demanding role as wife and mother. sions are ultimately made higher up."

Lewis joked. "GMA did have a great visit to Omaha '. She goes in to the studio every morning at 5:30 A new music correspondent, saxophone player a number of years ago, but February is not the (that's a.m.); it's only ten minutes from her home in the<city.-After-thei<broadcast^there's a: planning David Sanborn, and chef Emeril Lagasse, are ideal time to mount an outdoor live show; with an ' '•;•'• meeting, a discussion about upcoming features, among the people Lewis has" brought to the show: audience!"

She's a big city producer with a big title which what was right about the show and what needs to She's recently added Bob Greene, as well, personal trainer for Oprah Winfrey. can easily intimidate, but in voice and manner, be corrected.

"We've made it 'newsier,'" Lewis noted, adding "I try to be out by 5 p.m." she said, "but many that her role is now involved in "adjusting the tone" Shelley Lewis still carries the character, common sense, the "work ethic" of the Midwest. nights it's more like seven-ish." and character of the show, That seemed typical in a recent week when Growing up in Omaha, Lewis knew she wanted to President Clinton was questioned by the grand jury be a writer. She credits her high school English and the United States targeted missiles on terrorist teacher at Central, JohnKeenan, for "honing" her camps in Sudan and Afghanistan. One interview

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'We like to keep busy' • While Stern joined the sales team at the Jewish Press, she also began repIf a motto could be resenting a line of women's applied to Barbara clothing.

Frankel and Rocky Stern, As Fashion Consultant it would be "Keeping for the Carlisle Collection, busy is good." For these "created for discerning two women, there just women who appreciate the aren't enough hours in best in fashion, quality, the day. value and service," Stern Besides the fact that and her partner, Linda they are both mothers Hall, host four trunk shows and grandmothers and annually in a home setting. each married 40 years, "We used to get a break they are partners in busibetween shows," Stern said ness-and they each have with a laugh, "but we're so separate business venbusy before and after each tures as well! one, that they seem to just Add a little travel, some run into each other." biking, hiking and dancing Rockv Stern ' The "before" part involves (for Stern) and cooking and KOCKy»tern . the help of their husbands, entertaining (for Frankel), instrumental in setting up the gridB and the lighting and it almost combines for full 24-hour days!

Starting with what keeps them together would system to show off the new season's clothing line.

During the trunk shows, Stern is busy setting up have to be their more than 40-year friendship and the friendship of their husbands, Dean Frankel (a appointments and meeting with clients individualCPA and partner in Frankel, Zacharia, et al) and ly to discuss their needs and help them develop Arnold Stern (an attorney in private practice). their own personal style .

After the orders have been placed with Carlisle's Their anniversaries are only days apart "so we could attend one another's weddings" recalled New York office, Stern awaits deliveries of sportswear, outerwear, daytime, and elegant evening Frankel.

The two women are also business partners in clothes, which then require steaming, fitting and Frankel/Stern, independent contractors who are delivery. Then it's time to plan for the next show!

"It always seems that the deadline for special sales representatives for the Jewish Press. While Frankel has been selling advertising for more than issues of the Jewish Press fall around the same time as Carlisle trunk shows," Stern said, "but 20 years, Stern has been at it for about 10.

A few years after Stern had been selling for this somehow I manage to get it all done."

All is an understatement!

• newspaper, Frankel asked her to join her. Stern now handles all the special issues (like this one) Besides these two "part-time" positions, each week and Frankel is responsible for ensuring their Stern manages to get in at least one ballroom dance lesson, golf or bowling and. three or four bike rides accounts are in the weekly issues.

The two women account for more than 1/3 of the ("when its nice out") with her husband, Arnie. ,;^]\, When they visit middle son, Richard, and his annual advertising revenue for the Jewish Press, wife, Lori, in Colorado Springs, they also enjoy hika healthy amount by anyone's standards!

"It's a good arrangement," said Stern.;;?I wanted ing, and playing ;with two of their granddaughters, to work for the Press, but I wanted flexible hours." Madison, 5, and Brooklyn, 2.

Son, John, lives in Omaha, (and owns Sparks Because they enjoyed skiing, and thought others Computerized Car Care) along with his wife, would as well, they founded SkiTrips Unlimited, in 1972. They eventually dropped "ski" to broaden Cynthia, and their children, Lydia, 7, and their offerings of vacations and Bon Budwig joined Cameron, 5.

Their youngest son, Jeffrey, is an architect in the partnership. When they went their separate Portland, OR. ways in 1987, Stern looked around for new projects to "keep me busy."

(Continued on page 61)

by Carol Katzman

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like to keep busy' (Continued from page 60) Barbara Frankel is just as enthusiastic about spending time with her grandchildren. Luckily for her, they all live here. ~" - -..

Son, Harris, a neurologist, is married to Jari, "a non-practicing internist who is staying home right now to take care of their four children, the jewels of my life," Frankel notes proudly of Sarah, 7, Emily, 6, Hannah, 3i/2, and Sam, almost a year old.

Daughter, Amy Frankel, is Associate Brand Manager of Turns at Smith Kline Beecham in Pittsburgh. She's also lived in Houston and New York City, where she's held other corporate positions and given her parents places to visit.

T d love to travel more," Frankel saict "Not just in Europe, but in this country as well."

When would she have the time?

Between handling a large account list who advertise weekly in the J e w i s h Press, Frankel also runs an exclusive table linen business.

"We were on a trip with two wonderful Mends, David and Judy Goldstein, in Quechee, Vermont, and I saw a tablecloth I couldn't resist!" she recalled. "It was unlike anything I'd every seen...and I now carry their line."

From t h a t first glance in a store window, Frankel's linen business has taken her to shows in Dallas and New York...and back to her first love, volunteering for Children's Hospital.

"I'm doing a linen consignment show on Oct. 1 and 2 for the annual Children's Hospital Bazaar," said Frankel. "We're a family of treasurers; Dean, my mother, Ruthie Nogg, and I have all held this position for several organizations." .

Frankel was on the Friends of Children's Hospital Board and has volunteered in the hospital, as well as the UJA/Federation Annual Campaign, National Council of Jewish Women, and the Arthritis Foundation. She's also shared some volunteer experiences with her business partner and friend, Rocky Stern.

• "When I was President of the Women of Variety Club, Rocky was Vice-president," Frankel recalled.

Her leftover time, when there is any, is spent with family and lifelong friends.

"I don't really know anyone blessed with the friends we have," she said; "Our friendships go back to birth and my friends are still my friends, regardless of circumstances." ; • • If these women had any advice to other women looking to juggle work and family it would be, as Frankel said, "Keep your options open, but the most important thing is the respect and love for your fellow human beings."

Stern added, with a twinkle in her eye, "And have fun doing it!" \

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Barbara Frankel "And we've also planned and organized opening events for Opera Omaha together.

"I love people and I love to be busy," she added.

"I've met many wonderful people, Jewish and nonJewish, selling them ads or linens, or volunteering."- : . • . . - : • ' . ' ' • ; - . • . •• Like her partner, Frankel has other interests besides her two "part-time" positions! She likes to spend "untold hours" in her kitchen and on her computer.'She plays bridge on the Internet, though she doesn't have her Life Master's because she "won't leave Dean to play at regional or national tournaments."

Call: Larry Axelrod, Advertising Manager 334-6451 Barbara Frankel, Sales Representative 333-7920 Rocky Stern, Sales Representative 393-4952 Special rates for frequency or bulk contracts Dates of upcoming special Issue: . Education Issue; Nov. 6 Hanukkah Gift Guide: Dec. 4

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Destined for mysic

by Carol Katzman

Growing up in Sedalia, Missouri, a young Willis Ann knew she was destined to become a musician.

After all, lief father was director of the town's community orchestra for more than 45 years, and guest artists were permanent fixtures in the Rosenthal Charles Graz, M.D., Hudson Hsieh, M.D., home.

"My dad was also the lay rabbi of this small, Michael Meyer, M.D. close-knit Jewish community," Ross recalled, Mary Lou Woodard, M.D. remembering the richness of her childhood, not just Supervising Psychiatrists/Medical Consultants from family, but from the visiting musicians and Jews who were welcomed into their home.

We are delighted to be involved in Rosenthal recently celebrated his 100th birthday. honoring the successes of Those formative years were not always easy for Jewish Women in our community the town's recognizably Jewish family. The The three 'Ross girls', Sara, Charlotte and Rosenthals drove 80 miles each way to Kansas City Jenny, with their father, Alvin Ross.

Wishing you peace, harmony every week, during the school year to ensure Jewish andjulfdlment in the New Year education for their children. But they were happy years, filled with music and lessons and Jewish life.

The music school at Washington University beck8610CassSt..

391-2477 j oned and Ross was awarded a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, N.Y. By then she had met Omaha native Alvin Ross.

"My roommate and his dated a few times and each said to the other, 'Boy, do I have someone for you!" Ross said with a smile. "But Al was starting law school at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and I had my music fellowship back east."

They were apart for three years and then married in 1962. Al Ross was offered a position in New York and Willi played in the Brooklyn Opera Company, t-i but two more Ross's, Sarah and Jenny, arrived soon after. Their youngest, Charlotte, was born in Omaha.

"The pull back to the midwest was overwhelming for both of us," Ross said. "Al's mother, Sylvia was Willis Ann and Alvin Ross in Omaha, along with his sister, Jean Epstein, and stant challenge to balance all the valued compomine weren't far away either. nents of her.life.

"Al came home from work one day and asked me "While I am preparing Shabbos dinner, I think I "What about moving to Nebraska?' she added, "We should be practicing," Ross mused. "When I'm pracknew New York City was temporary!"

MARBLE & GRANITE FABRICATION ticing, I think of my children and grandchildren This is Ross' 35th year with the Omaha and am mentally planning our next trip!"

MARBLE &GRANITETILE Symphony, but she considers herself more than One of the difficulties of life as an orchestra musijust a veteran, having "survived" five different con- cian is that they work when everyone else is offINSTALLATION ductors. evenings and weekends. But when she's free on "It's been a real roller-coaster ride," she laughed. Friday nights, she likes to invite Shabbos guests to "We've had ups and downs, but the orchestra has share then* home. grown tremendously and I feel fortunate to have "If s enriching for Al and me to have guests at our grown with them."

4623 So. 28th Street Shabbos table," Ross said. "It's an added impetus to She's seen many fine musicians "come and go", do some learning and to share words of Torah."

733-3100 usually moving on to positions in larger orchestras.

The Ross home, or "Ross Hotel" as her family has But she considers herself lucky to have "some joked, is always open to Shomer Shabbos guests as incredible musicians, not only as fellow flutists, but well as to visiting musicians, reminiscent of the also as some of my dearest friends."

Rosenthal home in Sedalia so long ago.

People ask her why she's content being second Ross has recently recorded her second compact flute, why she hasn't sought the position of princi- disc here in Omaha. Due out in November, it's entipal flutist. Her response is simple and direct. tled Gifts, a compilation of pieces written and "My fellow flutists can relax around me," Ross arranged by friends for her and fellow flutist Mary noted. "I'm not in competition with them; I'm not Bircher. The duo will play at a Bagels and Bach seeking the limelight or their position. I'm so happy concert at the Joslyn Museum on Jan 3,1999. to share with them, to learn from them, and to Ross also plays at weddings and other events and have been able to maintain this long career. when the concert season is over and her UNO stu"Sometimes I'm just amazed that I'm still doing dents are on summer vacation, she and her husthis!" band take off!

'This' includes a full-time schedule with the Visiting their three daughters and their husOmaha Symphony and its many components.- reg- bands and children is usually first on the agenda. ular season concerts, Pops concerts, chamber Sarah, the oldest, is married to Teddy Weinberger. orchestra and special events. It also includes hours They live in a Jerusalem suburb with their five of rehearsal, both with the orchestra and alone at children: Nathan, Rebecca, Ruthie, Ezra and Eli. home. And, on top of those demands, Ross teaches The one other musician in the family, Jenny, through the Music Department of the University of plays violin for the Ann Arbor Symphony, where Nebraska at Omaha. she lives with her huBband Charlie (a concert trum"I am always amused at the way some people per- pet player) and their three-year-old son, Joseph. ceive me and my work," said Ross. "Somehow the Charlotte and Matt recently moved from Boston to concept of a job in music and the arts is viewed as a San Francisco, adding another wonderful "vacation hobby, implying that the talent overrides the need spot" on the list of places for Al and Willi to viBit. ' for hard work."

She credits her husband with allowing her to In'fact, the life of a musician is often stressful, have this long career as a musician. tedious, difficult and even boring, according to "He was 'SO-SO" in the sixties, before it was politiRoss. A typical orchestra musician's schedule cally correct!" ROBS joked. "He is a '90s man who 402-342-JAVA requires about 18-23 hours a week of rehearsal and 'reared kids in the '60s. True co-parenting was a concert time, and an equal amount in private prac- rarity and I couldn't have done it without himl". tice, leaving little time for anything else.

Every year before the symphony season begins, "The thrill of sitting in the middle of an orchestra Ross looks at her flute, the one with which she has at the peak of a great musical moment with a con- practiced all summer and Bays, "Let me be able to ductor like Victor YampolBky cannot be matched by do this one more time." anv nnfo/1 T"I live Km» for fn» flimm any other exnarinnra" experience,1' R/ma Ross noted. those For Ross, being a musician has been and continmoments. And our conductor is a real inspiration!" ues to be her life dream, a dream that music lovers like everyone else she knows, Ross finds it a con- continue to appreciate. ; •

•

•

•

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The warmth of a community Shabbos. Because of her, I began to go to the Harvard Hillel, and I became interested in Judaism.

On my own, little by little, hi Boston and "What do I love most about Omaha?" Nadine then when I moved to New York, I took classes.and Kutner asked.

• . .• "I think overall, it's the people who have attended shiurim (lectures).

"I studied extensively at the Jewish Renaissance impressed me the most. Here, I have friends and acquaintances who cross all boundaries. It's really Center hi Manhattan and also at the Lincoln Square a wonderful thing to be invited to simchas at all the Synagogue," Kutner recalled. "Because I became different synagogues. In Omaha, everyone works observant later in life, it has helped me to undertogether for the benefit of the entire community. stand and accept people at all levels of observance."

Despite the hectic schedule of raising twin todMy husband and I really wanted to be a part of dlers, Kutner feels strongly about her role as an that," she said enthusiastically.

Rabbi Howard Kutner, spiritual leader of Beth active community member.

"In addition to teaching classes this fall at Beth Israel synagogue, and his wife, Nadine, have been Israel dealing with women and prayer, working in Omaha for just two years.

Since their arrival, they have been blessed by the with Sisterhood and serving on the synagogue's addition of twin sons, Yechiel Michel and Eliyahu youth education committee, I'm looking forward to teaching a new sixth grade class at Temple Israel," Meir, now 20 months old.

"We knew the Midwest would be a great place to she said. "The emphasis of the course will be using raise a family," she noted. "When we interviewed at the art and archaeology of different historical periBeth Israel, we were so impressed with how very ods to educate the students about Jewish history. It open, warm and caring the people were. Although should be really exciting!"

Kutner's community commitments also include we had job opportunities in cities with far larger Jewish populations, we wanted to be part of a participating in and teaching Rosh Chodesh groups closely knit Jewish community which is vibrant for women, including the Jewish Cultural Arts Council's Hiddush Levannah group, the Federation and active.

"The challenge of reaching out to our fellow Jews Library's monthly Book Club, and the reorganizaand showing them the beauty of our heritage is tion and management of the Friedel Jewish something both my husband and I approach with Academy's library. great enthusiasm," she added. "We wanted to be "We want to make sure the school offers the very able to share with people the meaning and relevan- best educational materials to both students and teachers. Updating the Friedel's library is a formicy of Jewish observance in modern times."

Kutner has an impressive resume. She holds two dable task, but my skills and training in library scibachelor's degrees from the University of ence are proving to be very useful," she said.

"The longer we're here, the more we seem to get Maryland. The first is in Art History, the second in German and Dutch languages and literature. In caught up in the spirit of the community," Kutner addition, she has a Master of Library Science noted. "Because we feel that this was a permanent move for us, we also brought my parents, Jerry and degree from Simmons College in Boston.

"I haven't always been observant," Kutner admit- Marilyn Siegel, to Omaha last summer. They are ted. "I was looking for a roommate in grad school more involved here in Jewish life than they ever who kept kosher. I ended up with a woman who not were on the East Coast. They really love it."

According to Mrs. Kutner, there are so many culonly kept kosher but was also was Shomer tural opportunities to take advantage of in Omaha

by Susan Paley

Nadine Kutner - museums, theatre, music and the zoo.

"The zoo is fantastic! My kids love it! There are so many beautiful parks and playgrounds, too," she said. "We are especially proud of our Jewish community and it's efforts to expand our wonderful JCC to meet the needs of the 21st century. The variety of people involved throughout the community is impressive. Omaha is a great city witlteverything we need.

"We are very happy to be here. And in addition to all that, Omaha has great shopping! Kutner said with a smile. "Coming from New York that says a lot!"

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

September 18,1998

jcague Offering V V oolunteers for the;Elde Elderly

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND THOSG DEAR TO YOU A HAPPY, HEALTHY NEWYEAR

J E W B S H WOIWIEISS INTERNATIONAL wishes the community a healthy and happy New Year Happy New Year to the Omaha Jewish Community

as we celebrate over 1S years of gathering and preserving the history of Nebraska's Jewry.

333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154 334-6441 and 334-6442

••WMMHMIMIIl

National Council of Jewish Women extends its warmest wishes to the.

Jewish community for a healthy, happy, and peaceful New Year.

Our best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year

YOUNG ENERGETIC SENIORS/ OLDTIMERS Omaha Chapter-at-Large We are the activist organizalion lor the modern woman, helping lo educate over 200.000 young people in Jewish communities around the world.

Monday, JCC

WALK-IN DROP-IN GROUP g Thursday, JCC

Wishing you a year of health, love and peace, happiness and joy

GOOD YOM TOY from

EWISH

NCJW

SAMERHAN

from

The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society

National Council of Jewish Women

Jewish Senior Services/ Rose Blumkln Jewish Home Residents. Board & Staff

Omaha Chapter of

HADASSAH

SENIOR SERVICES

The Students, Parents, Faculty and Board of the Best Wishes for a Happy New Year

Kalah Franklin Hatikvah Chapter

wish you a healthy and happy New Year

Henry Monskylodge B'naiB'rith

FriedeB Jewish Academy

formerly American Mlzrachl Women

Best, wishes for a happy and healthy New Year

JEWBSH WAR VETERANS Epstein Morgan Post 260

foung Seniors with Vision

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year from all brandies of the military.

FREE membership to all active-duty personnel

laron rpija rat??

An organization of Jewish Senior Services

The Congregation of Temple Israel wishes its friends in the Jewish community many long years filled with involvement, good health, happiness and peace.

Sisterhood Men's Club Jr. and Sr. Youth Groups Outreach . Religious School Parents

Contact: Commander Jay Benton

657-0311 We welcome new members

Beth El Synagogue Men's Club BILU USY TSS

Sisterhood KadimahUSY BESTT

Wishing all our friends a "Shana

Beyt Shalom Reconstructionist

Synagogue 3012 S. 119th Street, Omaha An affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructlonlst Federation

Call 758-9233 or visit our Web Site at http://come.to/beytshalom/

Sincere Wishes for a Happy, Healthy NEWYEAR

Tova U'mefuka.''May

Cr-d .grant us

all our most fervent glorious year

wish - A

in which we

will

merit the coming of Mosft/ocfi.

"Rabbi tAendel Katzman, Chabad of Nebraska

B'nai Israel Synagogue Council Bluffs, Iowa "The little Synagogue Off Broadway"

A Liberal Jewish Tradition For All

September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 65

Candlelighfing Friday, Sept. 1 8

...../.....

Sunday, Sept. 20.....

;.........

7:10 p.m.

......7:07 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 21....no earlier than 8:04 p.m.

mwin

Friday, Sept 18 Shabbat Comes to You...

3:45 p.m.

Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Cantor Jennifer Blum and «lewis!iCoijgregatloiiSji>f America;: the Temple Youth Group will lead a Shabbat Service at Remington Heights.

Early worship service....

5:30 p.m.

Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner and Rabbi Azriel and Jeff Taxman will officiate, using Cantor Leo Fettman Office hours: Monday -Thursday, the Union Prayer Book.

8 am. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 pjn.

Shabbat services 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 18 Rabbi Debbie Stiel and Cantor Blum will officiate Kabbalat Shabbat ....7 p.m. at this Family Service. The Oneg Shabbat will be Saturday, S e p t 19 sponsored by Mimi Rogers and Michael Marcovitz Morning service 8:45 a.m. in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Forrest Jr. Congregation 10:30 a.m. Parker Rogers-Marcovitz.

Kiddusb following, sponsored by Jordana and Saturday, Sept 27 Bart Nissen in celebration of Sydney's conversion Shabbat Morning service, Bar Mitzvah of Forrest Class with Rabbi Kutner 6:30 p.m. Rogers-Marovitz in the sanctuary 10:30 a.m.

Mincha, Shalosh Seudot and Ma'ariv 7 p.m.

Simcha B'Shabbat - an informal Shabbat service Havdalah...

8:08 p.m. that includes study and discussion of a variety of Sunday, Sept. 20 texts in the Livingston Chapel 10:30 a.m.

Morning services : 8:30 a.m.

Sitter service is available each Friday evening and Mincha 7:10 p.m. Saturday morning when their is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah Monday, Sept. 21: and Sunday when there is Religious School. Please Morningseryice... ...7:30 a.m. make a reservation so we may plan accordingly. Cost Torah reading 9:15 a.m. is $2 per family if reservations are made by Friday; Sermon 10 a.m. $3 for drop-ins. There are no facilities for infants.

Shofar service 10:30 a.m. Sitter service is available for the High Holidays as Musaf.

10:45 a.m. well as Erev Sukkot and Simchat Torah. Call the Tashlich at Elmwood Park 5:30 p.m. Temple office for reservations.

Mincha 7 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 20: Tuesday, Sept. 22 First service.

6:15 p.m.

Morning service 7:30 a.m. Second service.........: 8:30 p.m.

Torah reading.

9:15 a.m.

Monday, Sept 21: Sermon ..;.. ..10 a.m. Morning service 10 a.m.

Shofar 10:30 a.m. Family Youth Service.............. .....2 - 3 p.m.

Musaf. , ...10:45 a.m. Young Children's Service...,........:.V...3:15 - 4:15 p.m.

Mincha .,.....,.>.......,.••••••• ........7 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 24: , Fast of Gedalia Sisterhood adult education .........10 - 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 23: Rabbi Stiel will teach "Talmud for beginners."

Fast begins ....6 a.m. Adult education 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Morning service... .6:30 a.m, "Beyond Midrash" led by Don Schwartz.

Mincha ......6:55 p.m.

/

TiFEftETHJSflAEl.

:;,.

-, Memherofthetfaited Synagogues . . , . ' ;, of Cott$isirvativ« Judaism:, *'.y / 8219 ShVridan. Blvd., Oncota^NE,68502 Services are conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum.

Friday, S e p t 18: Services.

8 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 27: Shabbat Services .......9:30 a.m.

Sunday, Sept. 20: Erev Rosh Hashanah 8 p.m.

Mincha, Ma'ariv.......:....... ..7:15 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 21: Morning service.......................... .......9 a.m.

Junior Congregation ...li a.m.

Mincha, Ma'ariv...

7:15 p.m.

.;; -jat'NAi ISRAEL

SYMAGQG'UE-:.

- 'ei&MymterSL, Council Muffs, lA*, 51503. e-maitt docjeb@jwno.cofli

CONGREGATION B'NAS JESHURUN

The South Street Temple , tOU So. 20 St., Lmcoln, NB. (J8502-2797 Services conducted by Cantor Michael Weisser.

Friday, Sept 18 Shabbat Services 7:45 p.m.

Saturday, Sept 27 Torah study....

10 a.m.

Sunday, Sept 20 No Sunday School or Hebrew School.

Erev Rosh Hashanah service.......

8 p.m.

Monday, Sept 21: Morning service.............; 10 a.m.

Young children's service ...2:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept 24: Adult education........

7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Sept 24: Choir practice......: 7:30 - 9 p.m.

ROSE BtUMKIN JEWISH HOME 323 South 132Street; Omaha,NE. 68154

Friday, S e p t l 8 Services and discussion, "Changes in the' new Jewish Siddur (prayerbook)", led by Mark Levy..,.. 7:30 pjn.

Saturday, Sept 19 Sunday, Sept. 20: , Morning Services, led by Steve Riekes 9 a.m.

Erev Rosh Hashanah, Dr. Eugene Freund will give Sunday, Sept. 20 the sermon during services...............;... 7:30 p.m. Erev Rosh Hashanah Services 7p.m. : Monday, Sept 21: Monday and Tuesday, Sept 21-22:.

Services and sermon by Howard Silber...10:30 a.m. Morning services..... ..Li....!...-.......................9 a.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 30: Break-the-fast potluck Rosh Hashanah services led by Don Schwartz, will follow Yom Kippur services; call Sandra Jeffrey Taxman and Mark Levy.

Kurland, 323-8885 for reservations.

14500 CaUforaCa, Omaha, NE 68154 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 Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits.

Friday, Sept 18 Services 6 p.m.

Saturday, Sept 19 Services, followed by kiddush...

9:30 a.m.

Sitter service, 10 a.m.

ICtantan (k-3rd grade).

10:45 a.m.

Shabbat story time (pre-k and under) 11 a.m.

Chumash with Rashi study session.

6:45 p.m.

Mincha, Ma'ariv and Havdalah 7:15 p.m.

Stephanie Olesh, daughter of Robert and Donna Olesh, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Shabbat Sunday, Sept 20 Ma'ariv 8:15 p.m.

Monday, Sept 21 Morning service 8:30 a.m.

Alternate Service 9:45 a.m.

Tashlich Service 5 p.m.

Mincha, Ma'ariv.

•.

6 p.m.

Tuesday, S e p t 22 Morning Service 8:30 a.m.

Mincha, Ma'ariv .....7:20 p.m.

BEYT SHALOM RECONSTRUCTIONIST SYNAGOGUE An Affiliate of the Jewish Rccottstruetionist Federation PO Box 24-1130, Omaha, NE. 68124 7584)238 . http://eome.to/beytshaiotti/ Friday, Sept 18 Tot Shabbat Service at 3012 So. 119 St......7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept 20: Religious School, at the JCC ;..., 10 a.m.

Erev Rosh Hashanah Services....

7:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept 21 Morning services ..9 a.m.

Tashlich, TBA, and conclusion of services.5:30 p.m.

No Hebrew School classes on Tuesday.

OFFUT 25th and Capchart, Bellcvue, NE 294-6051 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.

Friday, Sept 18: Services 8 p.m.

-.CHAEM0HOUSE'

. cnab'ad@aol,coj»)i: Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman and Rabbi Mendel Feller.

Friday, Sept 1& Mincha, followed by Kabbalat Shabbat 7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 19: Services, followed by Kiddish. ..9:30 a.m.

Minclia-Ma'ariv, followed by Havdallah....7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 20 Erev Rosh Hashanah....

7 p.m.

Monday, Sept 21: Morning service 8:30 a.m.

Children's program......... ....10:45 a.m.

Shofar service..........

11 a.m.

Tashlich...........:............... ...6 p.m.

Ma'ariv ...7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, S e p t 22: Morning service.... ...8:30 a.m.

Children's program. ..:.10:45 a.m.

Shofar service........ .11 a.m.

Mincha, Ma'ariv ....7 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept 23: Fast of Gedalia, morning service.. ........7 a.m.

V.V-'iri'v

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Page 66 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

The influence of women

by Rabbi Paul Drazen Beth El Synagogue

How wonderful that the New Year's edition of the Jewish Press is dedicated to Women of Valor.

Through the years our people have benefited from the wonderful influence and shaping power of Jewish women. From Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah, the matriarchs of our people, through to the modern day, Jewish women have played a vital part in creating our sense of peoplehood and community.

Well known is the role of nurturer played by the Jewish mother through the years, giving guidance, setting philosophy and shaping world views and attitudes through time. Teaching at home, setting the tone for family, the classic Jewish Mother provided a loving look at what living as a Jew should be. Their actions became living definitions of care and concern.

Such was the historical role which continues now and continues to grow as well. As times have changed, as expectations of women for women have changed, so the place of Jewish women in every area of life has grown and changed as well.

That is certainly the case in the modern synagogue today. The place of women has grown to include leadership positions of all kinds, sharing in shul the same roles shared in homes and business-

it

In egalitarian synagogues the role of women now includes additional responsibilities for education, commitment and being role models for what opportunities are available to all members of the congregation.

As we recognize women who have made a difference, we must remember that all of us share in the obligation Rabbi Paul Drazen to build a caring, supportive community for all. The tasks before us, of education and commitment to Jewish living to foster continuity are ones' in which all must take an active role for the betterment of our community through the years.

May the New Year be one of blessing for all.

I love her'

by Rabbi Aryeh Azriel Temple Israel

The question of the prospective groom was, "Why do you want to marry Sarah?"

I was not surprised when he merely said, "I love her," and then slid into an awkward silence. To encourage further introspection, however, I prodded him with a second question: "Yes, but what about Sarah do you love?"

"Well. . . " • . • And now another awkward pause.

During the pre-marital counseling session, I customarily use this exercise to encourage communication, so necessary to successful marriage. I usually find it is infinitely more difficult for men than it is for women to articulate their reasons for marriage, or to express with words their insights about the woman's personality or character to whom they are about to make an enduring commitment.

Today, men cook, care for children, change diapers, wash dishes and in general aspire to be helpmates in the home. Women, who were called a helpmate as if such a role was primarily for females, now work in positions once reserved for males. Salaries paid to women are inexorably moving toward parity for equivalent work.

The gender gap is being bridged, except for the fact that otherwise articulate men stutter and (Continued on page 67)

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A wish for balance

I love her'

(Continued from page 66) become verbally artless when asked, "Why do you We men have gotten want to marry Sarah?" past the ridiculous I believe that this male impediment is culturally assumption that only a induced. Male inarticulateness, when expressing woman can be a helpthoughts about love is almost universal, and mate. We too must play remains the single most significant example of a the'role of the helpmate. gender gap that continues to separate men from But a helpmate, in the women, in an area where it should not. fullest and richest sense, Our culture shapes male speechlessness that uses words to comfort, endangers the stability of contemporary marriage. sustain, inspire, compliRelationships are dynamic. Two people must grow ment, redefine and in their relationship, by sharing communication regenerate the dynamic about their respective needs, insights, values, loving relationship that dreams. They must speak together about the world must ever renew itself. that for both of them is emotionally satisfying, Surely, men and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel offering security, self-esteem, a joyousness, shared women are wonderfully values and mutual interests. and permanently different. But the gap separating The key to this world is articulation. It is not the genders in ability to render love into words and reserved to females alone to speak of love, of acts is not a difference that we should preserve. delight, of joy. It is not reserved to women alone to Man must take courage and practice, practice, reinforce affection with, compliments, to suggest practice talking to their helpmate lest they become that there is a special quality of the soul, an intelli- victims of this cultural anomaly that makes their gence of one's companion which makes friendship tongue heartless in a most wonderfully special especially cherished. dimension of our humanness. L'shanah Tova!

TO

.won

by Rabbi Debbie Stiel Temple Israel

What do I wish for each of us in the coming year?

Balance.'It is, I believe, one of the quintessential elements of Judaism.

If one were to survey a group of Jews and ask them what they believe to be some of the key values in our religion, one might hear "family", "holiness", "community", "tzedakah", etc. "Balance" might not even make the list. Yet the more one studies Judaism the clearer it becomes that the TaNaKh and the rabbis are advocating and prescribing a life of balance.

This concern for balance is pervasive in our religion. It is expressed in the Torah's insistence that we take time for both work and for weekly rest It can be seen in the recognized need for both exalted moments of holiness and profane (non-sacred), "regular time" in our life.

And it can witnessed in the rabbinic belief that sometimes more than one view on an issue can be right at the same time; a reminder not to get too caught up in our own perspective. The rabbis even taught that both our good urges and our bad urges (without which we might never have the drive to succceed, etc.) are necessary in life.

Judaism has had few acetic groups in its long history. Once we understand Judaism's quest for equilibrium, it is easy to see why this is so. Asceticism's (Continued on page 68)

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Page 68 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

A wish for balance • (Continued from page 67) constant self-denial and austerity is counter to the Almost no one, now or JewiBh understanding of how God wants us to live. in the past, iwould ever Instead we are instructed to seek the blessings that have found regular come from a life assembled by taking the best mix leisure for "holy" time of the contrasting options in life. (such as Shabbat or the holidays) if they had In this issue of the Jewish Press, which focuses waited for all of their on women, and as we all take an accounting of our work to be done! lives, balance seems an appropriate topic.

Here, I would like to concentrate on balance as it The only way we find relates to time. Both men and women today often time for rest and family feel a lack of time for family, rest, and spiritual and devotion to God is devotion. In fact, to some extent, taking the time if we set such time for these is counter-cultural in our society. apart.

A lot of talk is devoted to how to fit everything In the year to come, into our schedule, but we cannot fit thirty hours of may we prioritize our life into a twenty-four hour day. Too much emphaRabbi Debbie Stiel time on earth carefully sis is placed on trying to be a super-mom, superso that this may truly dad, super-worker (all of which seem to really be a year of blessing for mean super-human!). us.

So how are we to worktowards a more balanced life for ourselves?

HAPPY NEW YEAR The change begins with placing a great deal of value on sucfyan existence. We must hold it in high enough esteem to resist the myth (and temptation) 1 1 that we should be cramming every opportunity (for advancement, for fun, for gadgets) into our lives.

Secondly, we can learn from Judaism's teaching of how to make room for what is truly important to us. In our religion this is done by setting aside time J for only those things and not allowing ourselves to be moved from that agenda (unless there are truly ill dire circumstances).

A woman of valor

by Rabbi Howard Kutner Beth Israel Synagogue

Each time the Shofar is sounded during Musaf of Rosh Haehanah, we say, Today is the birthday of the world." In more than one way we could say that Rosh Hashanah is the "motherhood day" of the world. '.'"..' ' In Hebrew, the words for day, week and month are all masculine; yet the word for year (shdna) is feminine. The days combine to form weeks, the weeks turn into months, and the months make up a year. Thus, in a sense, the shorter intervals of time are all children of the year.

On Rosh Hashanah, all these days, weeks and months are collectively viewed as having completed one full year. Therefore, Rosh Hashanah can be considered the mother's day of creation.

It is not a coincidence that on Rosh Hashanah we recall six mothers whose words and experiences are commemorated in our Machzor. Surprisingly, two of them are not even Jewish!

On the first day of Rosh Hashanah we read the Torah portion dealing with Sarah miraculously giving birth to Isaac. This portion also describes Sarah's insistence that Ishmael be driven out of Abraham's house, so that he would not have a harmful effect on Isaac's development.

Abraham and Sarah were at odds over this decision. Abraham felt'that Ishmael could remain in the house. But the keen insight of mother Sarah (Continued on page 69)

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A woman of valor (Continued from page 68) determined it was necessary to send him and his There will be a mass negative influence away. God tells Abraham "whatmovement back to ever Sarah tells you, heed her words."

Judaism. And in our own ' Sarah set the tone for Jewish mothers forever. It times, we are bearing is they who determine the atmosphere of the home. witness to this. Jews It is they who have superior spiritual insight. And form all walks of life are it is up to them to make the home .a truly Jewish returning to a life of home. So much of Jewish tradition, Shabbos, Yom Torah.

Toy and kashrut, center around the home and it is All six mothers read the Jewish wife and mother, the Akeres Habayis about on Rosh Hashanah (cornerstone of the home), who have primary role, have a thread of comsecond to none. monality, dedicating their lives to their chilThe Haftorah on the second day of Rosh dren. But our Jewish Hashanah describes our mother Rachel weeping mothers also share in bitterly for her children. "A voice is heard on high, wailing, bitter weeping; it is Rachel weeping for Rabbi Howard Kutner common dedication to her children. She refuses to be comforted for her raise children to the serchildren, for they are gone." vice of God and the Jewish people.

Symbolically, we can view Rachel's weeping for So, on this Jewish "Mother's Day" of Rosh her children who are no longer here to represent Hashanah, we can rejoice that our Jewish women the Jewish mother's deep concern for the future of consider themselves the descendants of these great the Jewish people.

Jewish women, "A woman of valor, who can find?"

Throughout the generations, we can be proud of Rachel mourns her children, the majority of the Jewish nation, who are no longer in our midst due our Jewish women. It is our wives and mothers to assimilation. She refuses to be consoled, think- who have played an integral role within the Jewish ing of her efforts and the efforts of N"shei Chayil people. (women of Valor) throughout the generations I am delighted that the Jewish Press dedicated whose main goal was to raise another generation of its Rosh Hashanah issue to our N'shei Chayil loyal Jews. She refused to be consoled, lest her Women of Valor. descendants vanish into history.

"Give them due credit for their achievements; let But God tells her, "Do not weep any more; wipe their works praise them at the gates."

Ketiva Vachatima Tovah. the tears of your eyes, for there is hope for your future; the children will come home."

Jewish prayer: living in the now

by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum â&#x20AC;˘Tifereth Israel Synagogue

In modern day America, attendance at High Holy Day sendees has often been criticized as little more than an opportunity to commingle with other Jews, to make a fashion statement, and to see and be seen. For those who work hard to achieve it, however, the message of the exalted liturgy of these days is profoundly moving. The hard part is that (was with so many valuable things in life), we must do a searching, deeply honest self-examination (cheshbon hanefesh) before we can reasonably expect to get any significant results.

It is often assumed that prayer is a natural phenomenon, an automatic response to some aweinspiring event.

Indeed, it can be just that, as when we see some wondrous aspect of nature for the first time (the Grand Canyon, the ocean, the picture of the birth of a star taken by the Hubble telescope)...or when we experience a deeply personal event (the birth of our child or being miraculously saved from a serious car wreck). Prayer can be an utterance of joy, a cry of pain, or a plea for assistance.

But to think of prayer as only a momentary response to an immediate, emotional event is to ignore entire realms of the deeper meaning of prayer. Spiritual events are not merely the quick overwhelming of the senses. A more profound form is the result of sincere reflection.

Putting together the mosaic of our experiences, assembling the jigsaw pieces of human relationships, we sometimes gain a realization of our natures and the way of the world.

Honestly confronting ourselves, we can perceive ~ pur strengths and weaknesses, we can gain insight (Continued on page 70)

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Page 70 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18..1998

Jewish prayer (Continued from page 69) into the joy and pain we have caused ourselves and others. This may occur in a slow dawning or in a flash, and brings a growing sense of the meaning of life and the meaning we have given it by our choices.

Our response may be a surge of gratitude as we reflect on our good fortune; it may be the welling up of regret over past misdeeds. We may decide to reorder our priorities to more wholesome and worthy ones, to mend the harm we have done, to do something to make this a better world, to repair our relationships and build new ones.

These insights are not automatic. We must pursue them by regularly immersing ourselves in opportunities for reflection, for the more we do, the higher the probability that we will gain understanding. Active and regular participation in Tefilah, prayer, experience helps drive home the eternal themes and values of human experience.

Reminding ourselves that no person is perfect and that we are all "frail creatures of time", the liturgy of the High Holy Days imparts a sense of urgency and preciousness of the moment. In contract to religions which put their emphasis on post>death experience.

Judaism's primary emphasis is on meeting our responsibilities in the here-and-now.

The solemnity of the Yizkor and "martyrology" sections remind us of the truth of Psalm 115:17, "The dead cannot praise the Lord, nor can those who go down in silence."

Recalling the values which our loved ones taught us .and for which too many had to make the ultimate commitment and recounting the shortcomings to which we are heir, we are bidden through personal self-examination to sensitize ourselves and to re-commit ourselves to express our best and truest self through our daily deeds. : To the perceptive, the emotionally charged atmosphere of the Tefilah helps us find our bearings, cleanse our souls, and renew and uplift our spirit. May the New Year bring blessing and renewal to us all.

A mifzvah is a nrcitzvah is a mitzvah

by Rabbi Mendel Katzman Chabad of Nebraska

ness and kindness, volunteerism, etc.

However, the Jew's companion and caring is driven by the fact that these mitzvot are an integral part of his relationship with God..

In the words of Rabbi Shneur Zalman when asked which is the superior Divine service, love of God or love of the Jewish people, "Both love of God Rabbi Mendel Katzman a n ( j i o v e o f the Jewish people are equally engraved in every Jew's soul. It follows that love of the Jewish people is superior, however, for you love whom your beloved loves."

Ultimately, then, these mitzvot are also an expression of our love of God. We are not enjoined to fulfill mitzvot between ourselves and our fellow humans because they "feel good" (or we "feel good" after doing them) or because they are politically correct. We are to perform them as a Divine imperative, a part of what our Creator demands of us.

Yom Kippur is the day when God gave the second set of the tablets containing the Ten Commandments, after the Jews were forgiven for the sin of the Golden Calf. On one tablet were those mitzvot between a person and God. On the other tablet were those between a person and his fellow man. This teaches us that both types of mitzvot are parallel parts of our relationship with our Creator, to be approached, performed, and carried out equally. ,J f! ... , : This year, let us resolve to make,<an hon,est attempt to perform any and all Mitzvot istffsvi;n, along our paths. For a mitzvah is a.m,i1tzyahY.js:ia mitzvah! Who can know which mitzvahjyill;tip,)ie scale in our favor andI bring the redemption;-

In the midst of the Yom Kippur services, the Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman, interrupted his prayers and exited the synagogue. He left behind him a shul filled with stunned worshippers, who wondered what awesome and lofty mission had prompted the Rebbe to leave in these spiritually uplifted moments.

The Rebbe made his way to the nearby forest.

There, he collected dry wood and branches. He carried them to a small house. He knocked on the door and then entered. Once inside, the Rebbe kindled a fire from the wood he had brought. He prepared a soup and he fed it to the woman in the house who had just given birth.

It is easy, even comfortable, to read stories such as the one about Rabbi Shneur Zalman, and be inspired to enhance our fulfillment of the mitzvot between ourselves and each other. At the very beginning of Jewish history, we are told of our ancestor Abraham, who showed us the importance of tending to the needs of others. In the midst of a Divine "conversation", he asked God to "wait" while he greeted and provided for tired wayfarers who approached his tent.

If we look at the story of Rabbi Shneur Zalman, what distinguishes it from other examples of selflessness and caring?

First, that the Rebbe chose to go himself although he could have sent his assistant, a son, or one of his Chasidim to tend to the new mother. But to fully appreciate the significance of the Rebbe's actions, we must take into'account the.magnitude and intensity of the Rebbp's Yom Kippu'rlprayers which were on behalf of all'the Jewish people. Yet he saw that caring for a new mother was? more precious precious before God than his exalted prayers.

Society encourages and sometimes even takes the â&#x20AC;˘ time to applaud humanitarian deeds; acts of good- - Moshiach for all mankind. May it happen;noW)i 1;>,;o Shana Tgvq. UlMetukah.

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Barbara and Scott Bressler Brooke Nicole Shulewitz, daughter oL. Gindy and Alan Shulewitz

Deaths Jeanette Ban, Edward Belgrade, Ruth Bernstein, Rose Blumkin, Lillian Brick, Morris Brick, Sadie Burton, Irwin Danoff, Marshall Denenberg,. Hannah Grace Feidman, Henry Fisher, Ida Gassner,' Sofiya Girsh, Harold Goldstein, Samuel .

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Beyt Shalom President.!. ,. .Hollis Glaser Vice-president Michael Salmi Secretary Sharon Allen Treasurer..

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EARLY DEADLINE NOTICE Due.to the closing of our office during the upcoming Jewish holidays, the noon deadlines for ads, copy and photos for the Jewish Press are as follows: Date of issue: , Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 23 Oct. 2 issue Tuesday, Sept. 29 • Oct. 9 issue Wednesday, Oct. 7 Oct. 16 issue Questions? Call Maureen LaPour, Managing Editor, 334-6449.

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Page 74 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

by Bert Lewis '

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•

The topic of the day-Outstanding Women of our community. It really wasn't hard to make a list. Which one of us can't say, without spending much time, the names of people we could .call "outstanding"?

Wouldn't you immediately think about your mother? I know I did, because my mom really was an outstanding person. Furthermore, so many people in this community knew her (or of her), I don't have to say much to prove my point. But wait a

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minute.. .what about your mother? looks different now. Today, women are enjoying (or Most of our mothers could no doubt qualify for maybe that's not always the word) a full-time such a title. Our mothers were not only outstand- career outside the home, when inside she deals ing, sometimes they managed to accomplish things with a house, children, a husband, personal needs which made us think they were magicians! and all the same other junk her bubbe dealt with.

They were the group who could always make She has to figure out how to be in several places something from almost nothing, whether it was a at the same time, meet every obligation gracefully pot of soup from a few unlikely looking vegetables and manage to keep herself looking 10 years and a bare bone the butcher "threw in," or a wear- younger. Oh yes, and stay thin. Let's not forget able garment for one of the kids, which she devised that magazine image of the modern woman who out of a man's discarded suit. can "do it all".

I've heard enough stories about this kind of mama When you get right down to it, it isn't easy, but it to fill a large book. I have seen grown men get teary does seem harder for the female. When grandma had eyed, remembering how a woman who could barely a sick kid, most likely she was there to take care of read, revered and understood the importance of edu- the child. Grandpa maybe offered a suggestion or two, cation. How such a person sacrificed time and again, patted the kid on the head; and left for the store, or so "the kinder could go to college." the office or wherever he was supposed to be.

We all know about such women, because every Today, the lady lawyer (or accountant, or doctor one of us had a mother who managed to be out- or teacher or whatever) has to figure out a plan for standing in some way or other, whether on a grand the day if she has a sick child. Whafs this got to do scale which everyone knew about or, more likely, with "outstanding"? Everything, because that's quietly, with no fanfare. That's our role, to some only one example of the way today's woman often extent, isn't it? Aren't we supposed to be able to must juggle responsibilities. pull off that which is next to impossible?

Maybe what it boils down to is that life is tougher You'd argue with that? Well, I'm not sure that my today than it once was. Sure, we have many conveown experiences qualify me as an expert, but I've niences our foremothers didn't have, but we still seen women who kept a household running effi- don't know how to divide ourselves into the mom ciently, managed the care and feeding of a family, who stays home and the one who doesn't. left the house for a full-time job, and still managed Do we have special powers in that extra chromoto say "yes" when they called from Sisterhood. some? Every woman, whether she's single and in By me, thats outstanding! That doesn't include time charge only of herself, or if she's the sole support of to attend a piano recital, or figuring how to borrow to some relative, or if she's a wife and mother, or if be able to buy something not in the budget Nor does she's a single mom with no other back-up, has qualit include playing negotiator between two warring fac- ities which could be termed outstanding. tions (factions being offspring) at the end of the day Ask any woman, whether she has the brains and when a little peace and quiet would be a gift. strength of a Golda Meir or of the little woman who Women, since time immemorial, have had to fig- does physical labor of some kind, she knows more is ure out how to live so that sometime, somewhere, expected of her than of somebody else. If it made someone might say, "What an outstanding person!" you think about your mom or grandma or sister or Today's women, just like yesterday's and the some other female who, as the kids say, really has day's before that, have the same row to hoe; it just it together. Outstanding!

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September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 75

Shema by Malka Kornblatt calls her symbol of oneness The Shema

by Malka. The Hebrew word shema means "hear,"meaning "listen, pay attention."

Kornblatt has designed and handcrafted the onesided Mobius Strip in gold and silver and engraved it in Hebrew, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, The Lord is One." Kornblatt explained, "Symbols represent and stand for ideas. Though we may talk of oneness, our minds find it difficult to grasp. August Mobius, a 19th century mathematician, discovered that by putting a simple.twist in a strip of paper connecting the ends, he created a physical and tangible form of the concept of oneness."

"Malka Kornblatt has captured it visually. Her Shema is a new Jewish symbol for the 21st century. It is an inspired idea and a thing of beauty," said Rabbi Jack Riemer, author of Ethical Wills, and Wrestling With the Angel.

For information, call 1-800-421-2622.

by Robert A. Cohn Editor-in-Chief, St. Louis Jewish Light

She was always ahead of her time, and she still is. Malka Kornblatt's endless curiosity took her far from the mainstream onto the path of some profound insights. » .

Kornblatt has been happy since she took her own spiritual path, but lately she describes herself as being "ecstatic, not about my own good fortune, but about being right."

"There it was, I couldn't believe my eyes," said Kornblatt in a recent interview. Now a Jewish educator in Boca Raton, Florida, she was formerly an assistant dean in the College of Arts and Sciences at Washington in St. Louis.

What she was "ecstatic" about was what she called a "million-dollar vindication" of the inspiration that led her almost 18 years ago to create the Shema by Malka, a design that combines the ancient watchword of the Jewish faith - the Shema prayer—with the Mobius Strip, a one-sided, oneedge shape discovered a century ago by August F. Mobius, an astronomer and mathematician.

As a design for Malka Kornblatt's exclusive jewelry, her Shema has become almost as familiar as mezzuzahs and chai symbols in the years since its invention.

The "million-dollar vindication" of her inspirational design that came to her one Shabbat morning in 1980 was a headline in the New York Times which read "Scientist Wins Religion Prize of $1 Million: Linking of Theology and Science is Cited."

Kornblatt's excitement emanated from something that occurred back in 1980, when she was reading the Torah portion for that week before going to Shabbat services.

"I stopped reading, looked up into space as my mind jumped ahead at me. Suddenly, two thoughts came to me simultaneously, yet each from a different direction," Kornblatt recalled.

Just as Albert Einstein instantly "saw" his theory of General Relativity and as John Dalton "saw" his atomic theory, Kornblatt says her idea also came jfrom out of the blue and in a flash.

"From the left came the Mobius Strip and from the right came a biblical prayer, the Sh'ma, and they met in my head. Instantly, I knew something important had happened,*' Kornblatt said.

The Mobius Strip has only one side and one edge.

The prayer, the most important one in Judaism, says, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God. The Lord is One," (Deut. 6 4).

"By coupling the central concept of religion,

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Oneness, with the physical manifestation of oneness, I knew the result was a powerful symbol that represented the direction in which physics was moving.

Science was becoming spiritual," Kornblatt said.

"Most people think that as science advances, religion retreats," Davies is quoted as saying. "But the more we discover about the world, the more we find there's a purpose behind it all."

Davies is only one of a growing number of scientists writing about God, Kornblatt noted. A national best seller written by Leon Lederman, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, The God Particle, raises the question, "If the universe is the answer, what is the question?"

Kornblatt said, "With the clarity of precision, Lederman reviews the history of physics and the future of physics in its search for The Ultimate.

Another Nobel Prize-winning physicist, Ilya Prigogine, wrote an international best-seller, Order Out of Chaos, which reflects perhaps the turning point in science from the relentless pursuits of dissecting the universe to the humble realization that the total is greater than the sum of its parts."

In his book, The Mind of God, Davies discusses the historic development of the idea of the laws of nature: "The Jews conceived of God as The Law Giver. Nature was suppose to be subject to laws by divine decree."

Davies also said, "Previous thinking attributed the property of physical things to be intrinsic qualities belonging to those things. The view that laws governed and the physical world obeyed started with Judaism and becomes the modus operandi of science from then until now."

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Page 76 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

uilding a Jewish Neighborhood for the 21st Century Hedge Amount Name: In consideration of the mutual promises and gifts o f others and the expenditures, commitments and services of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, Inc. i n reliance thereon, I, for myself and my heirs, legal representatives, successors, and assigns, agree to pay the pledge amount shown above over a 3-year period, with the first payment due by December 31,1998.

Address: . State:.

City:.

.Zip:

Please make payments to: JCC Campus Project

Contributor's Signature

Return to: Jewish Federation of Omaha • 333 South 132 Street • Omaha, Nebraska 68154 • (402) 334-8200 If you do not want your name published, please check here D •

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The following people have made commitments to the Campus

Founder*. S2.SO.000 and above Phil & Terri Schrager Myer & Dorothy Kripke Mill & Pauline Abrahams Tom & Darlynn Fellman Howard & Sharon Kooper The Newman Family Jule M. Newman Memorial Fund Bob & Phyllis Newman Murray & Sharee Newman The Simon Family Alan & Anne Simon Bruce & Stacy Simon Fred & Eve Simon Steve & Kathryn Simon Todd Simon

Pioneers (continued) Steve & Patty Nbgg In Memory of Burton L Robinson Sam & Frances Fried Andrew & Kimberly Robinson Mark & Paula Robinson Gene & Nancy Rech Harley & Beth Schrager The Slusky Family JodiSlusky YoavGershoni Jay Slusky Jerry Slusky Irving & Gail Veitzer and Norman & Joodi Veitzer Speedy & Hcrmcne Zweiback Anonymous (3) '

Rullden.S100.000-X249.999 The Baker Family Louie & Fran Blumkin Harold & Merriom Cooperman Rich & Frances Juro Kevin & Kimara Clark Kevin Juro KeriJuro Pennie Z. Davis .

Friedland Family Foundation Frohm Foundation Joe & Maxine Kirshehbaum and Harlan & Nancy Noddle The Riekes Family Henry & Dorothy Riekes Steve &Margo Riekes Carl & Zoe Riekes The Slosburg Family Charitable Trust Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation Anonymous (1)

Pioneers. $50,000 - S99.999 Harvey & Phyllis Aronson The Belgrade Family In memory of Eddie Belgrade Sandra Belgrade ' Bob Belgrade Bruce Belgrade Jim & Robyn Belgrade Henry & Mary Kay Davis Joe & Ruth Erman The Mike Erman Family In Memory of Eileen Erman Mike Erman Michael & Lori Miller Jonathan & Slacey Rockman Ike & Roz Friedman Foundation Marvin &Susan Cohn Alan Friedman Donald Yale The Goldstein Family Donald & Ann Goldstein Bccca Goldstein Deborah Goldstein Leonard & Shirley Goldstein Nancy & Don Greenberg Howard & Carol Hahn Steve & Sheri Idclman Howard & Gloria Kflslow

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Groundhrcakcrs. $25,000 - $49,999 Alan &. Marcia Baer Foundation Helen Brodkey Jack & Marcia Cohen The Glazer Family Richard & Phyllis Glazer Jim & Jordana Glazer John & Jennifer Glazer Art & Ruth Goldstein The Dan Gordman Fund The Gordman Family Nelson & Linda Gordman J.D. Gordman Julie & Max Goldman Kip & Bridget Gordman Gary & Karen Javitch RoseKatzman In Memory of David KaKman The Lehr Family Matty & Joanic Lehr Bruce & Cindy Goldberg Susan Lehr John & Sandy Lehr Leonard & Bert Lewis David & Sue Meyers Sherman & Jeanie Neff and Herman Goldstein Jay & Kim Noddle Sydney &ReginaOslen Alan & Carol Parsow N.Pillor& Sons, Inc., In Memory of Norman Pillor The Platt Family Max & Dorothy Platt Mike & Barb Plait Jeff & Ellen Platt The Schrier Family Stan & Felicia Schrier Jeff & Tracy Schrier Bennett & Julie Ginsberg Jill Schrier Dorthy Schrier Bruce and Anne Shackman In Memory of Hymen "TWeel" Belman Margarctte Belman Yudelson Murray J. & Laura Belman Patti Belman Lynn Anonymous (3)

Leaders $10,000 . $24,999 Aaron Ferer & Sons Irv& Susie Blumkin Ron & Chris Blumkin Barry Broder The Epstein Family Harold & Etta Epstein Paul & Sandy Epstein Gary & Lisa Epstein Mort & Jan Glass The Goldstein Family David &Judi Goldstein Joe & Jill Goldstein Rick Goldstein Jeff & Danielle Gordman " Jerry & Linda Gordman David & Pam Gross . " . and Rose Gross Jerry & Cookie Hoberman The Josephson Family Larry & Debbi Josephson Keith & Judy Josephson and June Goodbinder David Keiser & Lillian Keiser Stoms Fdn Sally dayman Dr. & Mrs. Allen Morris Mr. & Mrs. Jeff dayman Kevee &'Myma Kirshenbaum The Krantz Family In Memory of Rose Krantz, David Krantz Howard & Barbara Krantz Stewart & Susie Smoler Bob & Connie Kully Marshall & Barbara Kushner The BeMon Kutler Family Ben & Harriet Kutler Laura & David Chait Robert & Tcrri Ellen Kutler David &DebiKuUer Howard & Nancy Kutler Bruce Kutler The Malashock Family Barbara & Stan Malashock Jody & Neal Malashock Diane & Larry Malashock . Beth & Steve Leeds Kathy Malashock The Manvitz Family Marilyn & Justin Manvitz Wendy & Todd Manvitz Gennadiy & Nelli Menkov Sol &LeeJane Parsow Yale & Ida Richards Larry & Silvia Roffman Blaine & Judith Roffman Jerry Rosen In Memory of Jack M. Safersleln Mary Saferstein Rhonda Saferstein & Jeff Hanscn Diane & Howard Shandell Mark & Lynda Saferstein ' Mark&VickiSanford Milt & Rosaline Saytan Joel & Nancy Schlessinger and Bernard & June Schlessinger Lei&JanSchneiderman

Leaders (continued) Stuart & Esther Simon Jerry & Judy Simons Howard & Judy Vann and Family The Milton G. Waldbaum Family Fndn MimiWaldbaum John &Natha Waldbaum Amie&ArraeWeitz Tim Zweiback Anonymous (8) Innovatorftt up to $9,999 Art & Charlotte Adler The Adler Family Morris & Bernice Adler Robert Adler Abe & Shelley Wisnia Nils & Shari Asplund William & Rose Abrahams Harold & Helen Abrahamson Edith Abrams Alvin & Doris Abramson Mike & Sherry Abramson Jeffrey & Susan Aizcnberg Lawrence & Paula Albert Leon & Eleanor Alexander JoelAlperson Margie Alperson Bemie & Shirley Altsuler Harry & Ruth Altsuler Aryeh&HyceAzriel Bruce & Jill Baron Donald & Diane Baum .

Dennis & Jeanne Beavers John & Angie Beldns Mark & Jill Belmont JayBenton \ . . ..

Harry Berman & Beth Cohen Jerry & Mary Berman Gerald & Lois Bemstien Harold & Millie Bernstein Terrance Bernstein Thomas & Mary Bernstein Albert &JuniBloch Robert Lachowiez & Margaret Block Harold &Dina Bloom Menasse Bohbot Melvin & Genevieve Bornstein Randal & Rhonda Brand Bess Brodkey Harold & Lucille Brodkey Peter & Carol Brodkey Ron & Beth Brodkey Sherman & Sandy Brodkey Peter Brodsky Jack & Florence Brody Sidney & Jane Brooks The Brown Family Jonathan & Debbi Brown Leigh-Anne Brown Lauren Brown Sam & Elaine Bukengolts Esther Canar Louis & Eudice Canar Richard & Sandra Confield Frederick & Molline Cassman Truman & Rosemary Clare

Please join us in this incredible opportunity!

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

Innovators (continued) Gilbert Cohen Marc Cohen Paul & Arlene Cohen and Family Shelly & Joyce Cohen LeonaCohn Naomie Cohn Steve & Linda Cohn David Cooper Harvey & Rose Cooper Ron & Cheryl Cooper & Family Samuel & Judy Cooper Jerold & Janey Dann David Davis Rose Davis Manuel & Karen Delgadillo Steve Denenberg Dennis & Pamela DePorte Jack & Mindel Diamond Edward & Esther Dolgoff Paul & Susie Drazen Jack & Jean Duitch Stan&EUeneEdelstein Lewis & Teresa Eirinberg RexEkwall WaUy&JeanElkon Bob & Lois Endelman Randy & Penny Endelman Todd & Lisa Ephriam Edith Epstein Gary & Nancy Epstein and Jim & Robyn Belgrade Howard & Sharon Epstein Melvin & Lois Epstein Sam & Rosaline Epstein Tuffyft Helen Epstein Willis & Audrey Epstein Abe & Liberty Faier Al&EllieFeldman Mike & Judy Feldman Mary Fellman Frances Ferer.

Leo & Annette Fettman Norm & Harriet Fishel Betty Fisher Frank & Cheryl Flatowicz Pierre Flatowicz Irving & Sonia Forbes Irving & Ida Forbes The Fox Family Dee Fox , Rick, Shelly & Naomi Fox Marsha Fox Michael &Jodi Fox Ira & Maria Fox Ron & Marsha Frank Dean & Barbara Frankel Robert ft Robyn Freeman Beverly Freiden At & Esther Friedman Gloria Friedman Harry & Merriam Friedman James Friedman Lloyd & Lois Friedman .

Morris & Beth Friedman Sandy & Amy Friedman Scott & Debbie Friedman

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 77

Building a Jeyvish Community for the 21st Century Raised to date $6.1 Million

$2,650,000 still needed!

We're Helping to Build the Community!

Biiilding Fund and have allowed their names to be published.)

Innovator (continued) :

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Innovators (continued)

The Friedman's " • : Jerome & Sylvia Kaiman Amy, Sandy, Andrea and Dusty PaulKaiman Willard & Thama Friedman Gary & Sally Kaplan Zalman& Mania Friedman Lazar & Bemice Kaplan Don & Maggie Gerber Myron Kaplan Robert & Kay Gerelick Robert Kaplan Lawrence & Dcanna Gilinsky Suzanne Kaplan' Stewart&Chicky Gilinsky Beatrice Kaip John & Marcia Gilmore Frantic & Sandy Kasin Arkadiy & Larisa Ginsburg . Sanford & Renee Kasner Donna Glvner Rick &Julee Katzman David & Wendy Goldberg and Mike & Carol Katzman Frank & Leanne Goldberg Mendel & Shani Katzman Gene & Mila Goldman Maury & Madeline Katzman The Goodman Family Leonard & Cindy Kaufman In Memory of Samuel £ Delmd Goodman Larry & Leann Kelberg Bob & Barbara Goodman Peyman Kharazi Fred & Barb Uehling Corey Kirshenbaum & Marcy Noodell Steve Goodman Jeff & Sharon Kirshenbaum Harold Goodman Max & Shirley Kirshenbaum Rob, Debbie & Isabel Goodman Don & Ilene Klein Sydney & Betsy Goodman Harry & Janet Klein Barbara Gottlieb Milton & Marsha Kleinberg Saul & Esther Graetz Marvin & Sandra KohU Lonnic & Diannc Graul Sam & Mollie Kohn Andrew & Carol Greenberg Leonid & Marina Konfisakhar Barton (Bucky) & Caryl Greenberg Joseph & Leah Kosinovsky Henry & Shirley Greenberg Scott &MindiKotzen ArtUur & Deborah Greene jack &. Bette Kozlen Bud & Rosalie Greenspan Abe & Beverlee Krasne George & KalhrynGrieb Cris & Peggy Krasne Jerry & Pearl Gross Leonard & Peggy Krasne The Ethel Grossman Family Lloyd & Edythe Krasne In memory of Mac Grossman David AVicIdKrecek Sharon & David Behrend Gary & Robbi Kudym Bernie & Marge Grossman Howard & Nancy Kuller

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The Grossman Family Art Grossman Ronald Grossman Larry & Linda Grossman j Arlene Gilles j Roberta Grossman Paul & Joy Grossman and Meyer & Frances Coren : Bruce & Margie Gutnik Harry & Judy HoU Yale & Ida Halperin Bobbi Halstcin Marc & Andrea Hamburg David & Bctte Harkin Louis & Eva Hcisler j ; Joel & Esther Hellman Larry & Retha Herman ' I '. . LeoHill ' David & Phyllis Hoffman AdeleHomstein / Louis & Lillian Hurwitz j Philip & Marsha Itkln • :..; Jon Lance & Dacia Jabenis j Richard &JoanieJacobson Ed & Anne Joseph* 1 HarveyJosin j Sorin&SaraJuster •' .

TobyKagan I Marcel & Use Kahn i Robert & Roxanne Kahn

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Howard & Nadine Kutner Doris Kwiatek Chuck Lang Alan & Shari Langnos Jay & Barbara Lashinsky Michael & Sharon Lawler Ben & Grace Lebowich Mike & Bobbi Leibowitz Ben & Eileen Levin Michael & Cheryl Levine Michael & Karin Levine Steve & Bonnie Levinger Rocky Lewis Sara Lewis Vera Lewis Dmilriy & Marian Libov Michael & DeanaLiddy Morris & Helen Lipp Rubin & Louise Llppett Harvey & Marcia Lipsman Michael & Margarita Lizinsky Steven & Thelma Lustgarten Bernard & Carolyn Magid Trenton Magid Larry & Diane Malashock :"':' ' Neal&Jody Malashock Robert ftNorma Malashock .

Harold & Linda Mann Myron & Harriet Marko Milton & Ann Margolin

Innovators (continued)

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I n n o v a t o r s (continued) Gary&CarynRifkin The Doug Riley Family Foundation Sheldon & Nancy Rips Andrew & Kimberly Robinson Michael & Tammy Rochman Stuart Rochman Jonathan & Stacey Rockman Normand & Phyllis Rodman Mimi Rogers & Michael Marcovitz Jacob & Rose Rosenberg Monroe & Helen Rosenberg Chamey & Jerry Rosinsky Edith Ross Lee & Peggy Ross Bess Rothenberg Steve & Bunny Rothenberg Betty Rubin EUiot & Betty Rubin Michael & Lynn Salmi Errol & Lynne Saltzman Betty Sanford George & Julia Schapiro Andrew & Wendy Scherer BeaSchimmel Abe & Annette Schloff Ed & Carol Schneider Harry & Sophie Schulman Maurice & Phyllis Schwartz JeffSchweid Howard & Diane Shanddl Norm &Suzy Sheldon Marc & Claudia Sherman Mark & Debra Sherman and Michael & Patty Sherman Rose Sherman Dave & Phoebe Shkolnick Rodney & Lois Shkolnick Paul & Susann Shyken Jeff & Mary Silver David & Jonis Silvcrbcrg James & Susan Silvcrman Ervin & Miriam Simon Mickey & Tootic Simon Suzanne Richards Singer David & Ann Sjalin : Steve & Nancy Skid Norm & Shirlee Smccrin Barry & Frances Snyder Morton & Helen Soiref Ramon & Susan Somberg Con Sommcr A1& Shirley Sorkin Joe & Miriam Soshnik Sherman & Harriett Sperling Richard & Bertha Spiegel Dorothy Spizman - Oliver & Gayle Spooner Moe & Muriel Steinberg Don & Lois Stern . Arnold & Carolyn Stem Betty Stcrnhill Alan & Kim Stoler ' Harlan Sludna Charlie & Louri Sullivan Jeffrey & Nancy Tctenbaum Steven & Marilyn Tipp

Mark & Julie Martin John & Kathy McGauvran Thomas & Margo Meehan Maurice & Rosalie Mciches Gennadiy & Nelli Menkov GeraldMeyer Bemie & Roie Meyers Bruce Meyers & Sally Barenbaum Joseph & Tina Meyers Leo & Helen Meyerson Scott & Jenny Meyerson Jerry & Fran Milder Mike & Ducky Milder Pete&RhodaMilder . and Larry & Georgine Koom Michael & Lori Miller , • ,'.y ...

Sidney & Lynda Mirvish •',," Stan & Evie Mitchell Semyon Mogilevsky Charles & Lyra Monasee Henry & Pam Monsky Gordon & Ann Moshman Allan AJanieMurow Bruce & Mary Beth Muskin Stuart & BettieMuskin JeanetteNadoif Jeanette Ncpomnick Steven & Maria Nessman Barbara Nichols Allan Noddle Irving & Marian Nogg ; Leo&BabeNogg ' RuthNogg Mike & Susie Norton LindaNovak Robert & Donna Olesh Michael & Barbara O'Malley The Ostrow Family Fred & Sandy Ostrow NadineOslrow Ellie & Paul Militzer Gary & Marcie Ostrow Dennis & Susan Paley Claire Passer Scott &Kristi Pavel Wayne & Sarim Penka Harold & Rose Perelman Jason, Rebecca & Zachary Perelman Willard & Shirley Pestal .

Eric & Julie Phillips James & Geraldinc Phillips ; Michael & Shelly Pichik Michael & Del Pisci Grace Plotkiri Marv & Sheila Polikov ' Oliver & Karen Pollak Joseph & Bluma Polonski • Larry & Dinah Raful Leonid & Irina Raksin ' • Neal & Nancy R n i i h a u s e r .

Gerald & Jeanne Raznick \;.

Steve&DodiRedler; LorraincReiss David Rice Lou&BevRich : Marty&IrisRicks ,

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Innovators (continued) Shirley Trachtenbarg Margarita Treskunova Isadore & SelmaTreliak Eitan&EadieTsabari ; Henry & Fan Tsuei Lazar & Margaret Turetsky " TomVann Sylvia Wagner John & Natha Waldbaum Arthur & Mary Walker Gordon & Joy Watanabe Raymond & Saudi Weinberg Art & Ruth Weiner Henry & Roberta Weiner Kenneth & Judith Weiner George Weise Earl & Lee Wigodsky Chris & Allyson Wilczewski David AAndiWillensky Ernie & Janet Winlroub Phil & Nancy Wolf Bob&SibbyWolfson William & Ann Wolfson Thaddeus & Deanna Woods Irvin & Annette Yaffe Harold & Phyllis Zabin Jamie Zacharia Richard & Terri Zacharia Steve & Kathleen Zalkin InnaZevakin Norman & Dorothy Zevitz Todd & Linda Zimmerman Barry &NoraZoob Seymour & Roz Zoob Anonymous (56)

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To make a contribution, contact the Project Co-chairmen: Patty & Steve Nogg, 493-3479 and Marcia & Steve Pitlor, 496-4632 orcall Tom Fellnuui or Howard Kooper, 392-1800.

Page 78 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

Give the Sadly a Si and: Yad Sarah - volunteerism in Israel

by Rabbi Bernard S. Raskas

Uri Lupolianski, living in Jerusalem, was desperate because his infant daughter needed an inhaler and he did not have one. His neighbor heard about his plight and happened to have one left over from his child's illness. He gave it to Lupolianski. When he was ready to return it, his neighbor told him to pass it on.

Lupolianski stored it in his garage and loaned it to people who needed it. The neighbors heard about it and soon gave him so many medical-assistance devices that his garage was full and he was constantly busy loaning them out.

At this point, the late and great Dr. Kalman Mann, director general of the Hadassah Medical Organization, joined him and provided professional guidance. Together they created Yad Sarah, located in an old building on 43 Ha'Neviim (Prophet's) Street in the heart of Jerusalem.

The name, Yad Sarah (the hand of Sarah) was chosen because Sarah was Lupolianski's grandmother, who was killed in the Holocaust. From a small beginning in 1978, it has grown into one of the great voluntary humanitarian institutions in Israel, if not the world.

Yad Sarah lends, free of charge, regular and hitech medical-rehabilitation equipment and special equipment for mothers, infants, and children.

In addition, the organization provides continuous oxygen-delivery systems and oximeters and operates a transportation service for disabled people.

Volunteers also monitor personal computerized emergency alarms 24 hours a day.

During my visit to its new and vastly enlarged building complex, I was able to press a button attached to the wrist with a small velcro strap and talk to the monitor in duty.

Amazingly, Yad Sarah now has 80 branches in Israel run by more than 6,000 volunteers and only 60 paid workers. Its 1997 maintenance budget was $9 million all raised in Israel. It saves the Israeli economy some $250 million a year in hospitalization and long-term care costs. And it receives no government assistance.

People come from all over the world to learn about the delivery of heath-care resources and social welfare from Yad Sarah. Visitors have come from the countries of the former Soviet Union and Scandinavia, from South Africa, Shanghai, and New York.

In Israel, Yad Sarah has helped one in every three families, including Arabs, Christians, and even tourists. It is now establishing a branch in the Arab village of Iskal in the Jezreel Valley.

"Anna B." is the daughter of a Christian Arab couple in Jerusalem. One morning on her way to school, "Anna" was hit by a car and was taken to Shaare Tzedek Hospital, where she was treated for compound fractures of the hip, requiring extensive surgery and a long recuperation in a body cast.

Prior to "Anna's" release, the doctor referred her father to Yad Sarah. The father was hesitant at first, but his apprehension soon turned to relief. An Arabic speaking clerk helped him fill out the forms, listing all the medical equipment he would need for his daughter's recovery. When the items arrived from Yad:Sarah, "Anna" even found a teddy bear provided by a thoughtful volunteer.

Yad Sarah now makes its own crutches, walking canes, oxygen concentrators, and electric monitors.

It maintains a stock of more than 300,000 items. It repairs electric wheelchairs and other equipment.

It is deeply moving to see people arrive with medical devices that are in need of repair and watch volunteers fix or adjust them.

"Yaakov V.", a cheerful, retired man, came to Israel from Russia. One day he slipped and broke his ankle. After treatment at a nearby hospital, he went to Yad Sarah to obtain a cane. While he was waiting, a distraught young woman came in with her son in a wheelchair that had suddenly come apart.

"Yaakov" said, "Let me see that."

In ten minutes he had the wheelchair up and running. The astounded clerk asked "Yaakov" if he would like to apply his skills at Yad Sarah.

"Yaakov" readily agreed and now he and his friends work voluntarily at the repair shops.

Yad Sarah has a fleet of 18 mini-buses specially built to transport people in wheelchairs. It maintains rehabilitation and drop-in centers. There is even a dental clinic for the elderly.

"Mazal B." came to Israel from Kurdistan in the early 1950s. She worked hard and tended to her family, but she neglected her rapidly deteriorating oral health. She was particularly proud when her grandson, Itzik, entered medical school this past year.

- During his first-year program his class was taken to visit the Yad Sarah dental clinic, especially geared to the elderly. Itzik ran home after class to

tell Grandma Mazal about the facility and take her there.

Now, a year later, Mazal has a beautiful smile.

"Until a year ago, I had practically no teeth left in my mouth and eating was a painful ordeal. Now I can't wait until mealtime," she said. ' Mazal, aptly named, is a lucky woman, indeed.

Perhaps the best expression of what Yad Sarah means is illustrated by "Eli".

"Eli" is one of Israel's unsung heroes. Every line on his weathered face, every callus on his strong hands tells another story of the history of Israel — from draining the malaria-infested swamps of the Huleh Valley to fighting courageously during the 1948 siege of Jerusalem.

"Eli" had a heart attack, which left him depressed and frightened. But "Eli's" heart is deeply connected to Israel and Yad Sarah is connected to his heart. He now wears the velcro bracelet with the special button.

He knows that with one press on the button an immediate two-way communication will be established. His medical condition will appear on a computer screen. If he does not respond immediately, a rescue squad will be sent to his home at once. Now, "Eli" is relaxed wherever he is.

He has his friends and, most of all, his independence.

"Yad Sarah is a lifeline, my own personal connection — my heart-to-heart connection with the wide world," he said proudly.

Yad is more commonly known as "hand." Yad Sarah - give the lady a hand.

Rabbi Bernard S. Raskas is Rabbi Emeritus of the Temple of Aaron, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Distinguished Visiting Professor of Religious Studies at Macalester College. He is author of the trilogy, Heart of Wisdom..

Shalom (Peace!)

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September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 79

Jewish Federation of Omaha and its Centers of Excellence Jewish Community Center Jewish Federation of Omaha Mark Sanford President :..

Howard Kooper President.

Gary Epstein, Richard Vice-presidents..Forrest Knitter and Bobbie Epstein Vice-presidents Jacobson, Roxanne Kahn, Jeff Kirshenbaum Treasuer.

Bob Lepp Steve Pitlor Secretary..... ...Jan Scheniderman Past-president Tom Baker, Past-president ..Tom Fellxnan Board members Agency Presidents....Mitzi Delman, Gloria Kaslow, Bob Belgrade, Paul Cohen, Justin Cooper, David Mark Sanford, Jerry Kohll, and Ann Goldstein Finkle, Beth Friedman, Wendy Goldberg, Larry Herman, David Jacobson, Sorin Juster, Larry Constitutional Committee Chairmen Margo Riekes, Marty Shukert, Arnie Weitz, Sorin Kelberg, John Lehr, Steve Levinger, Lisa Lewis, JuBter, Steve Levinger, Michael Erman, Marcia Lipsman, Carol Parsow, Marcia Pitlor, David Goldberg and Stacie Brodkey Marv Polikov, Mary Rich, Gary Rifkin, Kimberly Sernior rabbis Rabbi Aryeh Azirel, Robinson, Bruce Shackman, Norm Sheldon, Nancy Rabbi Paul Drazen and Rabbi Howard Kutner Wolf, and Jamie Zacharia Women's Campaign Chairmen Marine Kirshenbaum and Jan Schneiderman Jewish Educational and Library Services General Campaign Chairmen Bob Eisenberg President..

Mitzi Delman and Bob Newman Vice-president (library services)....Frances Gottlieb Vice-president (Educational Services)..

Jeff Smedlund ADL-CRC Board of Directors Spencer Brookstein President Ann Goldstein Past-president Joyce Cohen, Vice-presidents....Sara Juster, Mimi Waldbaum Board members Past-president Larry Raful Justin Cooper, Judi Finkle, Eliane Freund, Member-at-Large Irv Yaffe Murray Frost, Gloria Kaslow, Mary Grossman, Board members Jill Belmont, Mark Linda Gordman, Karin Levine, Laura Lee Belmont, Al Crounse, Joe Erman, Larry Gendler, Needelman, and Debbie Saloman Library Committee David Gilinsky, Bucky Greenberg, Roxanne Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Mitzi Delman, Joyce Cohen, Hoberman, Gary Javitch, Maurice Katzman, Bob Kully, Susan Lehr, Denny Lewis, Lisa Lewis, Rabbi Paul Drazen, Joanne Freeman, Eliane Bernie Meyers, E. Robert Newman, Linda Novak, Freund, Murry Frost, Linda Gordman, Frances Gottlieb, Ellie Greenspoon, Frances Juro, Gloria Magda Peck, Anne Shackman, and Sylvia Wagner Kaslow, Marsha Kleinberg, Jean Ann Krupinsky, Nadine Kutner, Rabbi Howard Kutner, Scott Jewish Federation Foundation -Chairman...

Michael M. Erman Littky, Stanley Mitchell, Nancy Rips and Ann Vice-chairmen.....Blaine Y. Roffinan, Steven Bloch Kibel Schwartz Board members Henry Davis, Jewish Senior Services Barbara A. Epstein, David L. Friedland, Morton Jerry Kohll Glass, Joseph Kirshenbaum, Forrest N. Krutter, President.....

Silvia Roffman Robert I. Kully, Martin J. Lehr, Robert L, Lepp, Vice-president ... Yale Richards Marray H. Newman, Jay Noddle, Harley D. Treasuer ..Joan Bernstein Schrager, Ted M. Seldin, Suzanne Singer, Richard Secretary ......11...Robert Lepp Slosburg, Norman yeitzer, sand Arnold Weitz Past-president.......^....

Board members.....................DeBbie Brookstein, Jack B. Cohen, Jerold A. Dann, Susan Drazen, Jewish Family Service President Gloria Kaslow Stanley Edelstein, Sandy Epstein, Morton Glass, Vice-president Frank Flatowicz Bruce Goldberg, Gary Javitch, John Lehr, Harold Treasurer Tracy Grinstead-Everly Mann, Patty Nogg, Jay Parsow, Sylvia Wagner, Secretary... ..Stan Mitchell Tim Zweiback, and Toby Kagan Past-president....

Julie Frank Jewish Press Committee Board Members Elyce Azriel, Vicki Flax, ....Steve Levinger Rick Fox, Bob Gerelick, Donna Greenberg, JoAnn Chairman Lloyd Roitsteiri Hill, Sara Juster, Steven Kohn, Scott Littky, Zoe Vice-chairman Treasurer Fred Tichauer Riekes, Sheila Rosen, Vicki Sanford, Susie Shyken, Secretary...

Joanie Jacobson Stacie SpiesrMatz and Andi Willensky Past chairman.

Bob Eisenberg Committee members .Elyce Azriel, Jill Belmont, Steve Danon, Linda Saltzman, George Schapiro, Howard Silber and Steve Simon •

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Page 80 JewiBlj Press, Omaha, NE September 19,1998

Jewish Organizations AMIT Women Kalah Franklin/Hatlkvah Chapter

President Vice-presidents

Charlotte Kaplan Georgia Ann Steinberg and Sara Landsman Recording Secretary ...Jean Epstein Treasurer Reva Ruderman Mother-in-Israel Chairman ..Ida Mann Program Chairman Annette Fettman Advisor Jeanette Nadoff

B'naiB'rith Henry Monsky Lodge President Vice-presidents

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Glueckel, (whose name means "lucky" in European continent.

A tragic point in Glueckel's life was the death of Yiddish), was born to a prominent Jewish family in Glueckel of Hamelin? Who in the world was she? Hamburg in 1644. But when she was just a little her beloved husband Chaim in 1689. Although she And her town, Hamelin, wasn't that the place more than two years old, the German Jews were was able to maintain the family business quite where the Pied Piper solved the mice plague? expelled from Hamburg, and her family moved to capably after her husband's death, she seems to Yes, you could certainly stump most of today's nearby Altona, which was under the rule of the have gone into a deep depression: Her marriage to Jews on who was Glueckel. But, thanks to her Danes who were most kind to the Jews. At this Cerf of Metz in 1700 was not too successful. The memoirs which have survived over two centuries, time^ some of the Jewish survivors of the Cossack collapse of his financial empire and his situation we know that she indeed belongs in the annals of pogrom in Poland under the leadership of Bogdan she dreaded the most: being dependent on her children.

Chnielnicki came to Altona.

To relieve her depression and to acquaint her The family later returned to Hamburg when conditions became more favorable for Jews. At the age children and grandchildren with their family's hisof 12 Glueckel was betrothed and at 14 she was tory, she wrote her famous memoirs. The memoirs married to Chaim Hamelin, the ninth child of are filled with her substantial learning. It contains Joseph Hamelin. With Chaim she had 12 children. page after page of references to the Bible, the (When she first became pregnant at the age of fif- Talmud, midrashic materials and popular Jewish teen her own mother was expecting at the same • prayer books which were used mainly by women at that time. time.)

The fact that her work is so replete with biblical Glueckel's father-in-law, a very fine, pious man became somewhat swept up in the 17th century and rabbinic references, indicates that Glueckel movement of the false messiah Shabbatai Tsvi. was remarkably well educated Jewishly for a Joseph of Helm was among the Jews who sold their woman of her times when access to scholarly studproperty and prepared to go to sail to the Holy Land ies was limited primarily to Jewish men. Certainly, at the moment when the Shabbatai Tsvi would her well-crafted book demonstrates her great literary talent. Glueckel died at the age of seventyredeem the Jews as the long-awaited messiah.

Chaim, Glueckel's husband, seems to have been a eight, a fairly ripe old age for hers and even our very virtuous religious man even at a time when own times. religiosity was a communal goal. When Chaim Yes, from every point of view Glueckel of moved to Hamburg Glueckel became his trusted Hamelin certainly stands out as an Ayshet Chayil, advisor in all practical affairs even while she was a woman of valor, for, as it says in Proverbs 31:11: bearing and raising their large brood of children. "her husband puts his confidence in her, and lacks In their business dealings and through her efforts no good things". to promote the most favorable matches for her chilIndeed how fortunate we are to be Glueckel's dren, she came into contact with some of the most heirs over the long centuries! If you are encouraged prominent Jewish families of her time. Some of by this forshpeis (appetizer) to read the complete them were the financier of Hanover, the financier copy of her autobiography, you can borrow it from and court jeweler of the Great Elector of Prussia, our Federation Library. * • -the. founder of a large banking house in Emmerich, the court Jew to Leopold I of Austria and the most famous of the court Jews of Kulbach-Bayreuth.

Her contacts spanned many countries: Germany, France, Denmark, Holland, Austria and Poland.

by Mark B. Levy

L'shanah Tovah Tikatevu

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September. 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Luboml: The Memorial Book of a Vanished Shteti (Ktav Publishing House,1997, $39.50) R e v i e w b y Gloria Goldreich

Yizkor is the traditional prayer remembering the dead recited during the pilgrimage festivals of Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot and on Yom Kippur by surviving relatives. Its inclusion in the liturgy reflects the importance Judaism has always placed on remembrance.

Yahrtzeit candles are lit on the anniversaries of the deaths of family members, the names of the dead are passed on through the generations, graves are visited and charity is offered in memory of those who have departed this life.

But when lives of entire communities were extinguished during the Holocaust and, in many cases, there were no survivors to sanctify the memory of the martyrs, an entirely different approach to the concept of Yizkor became necessary. Without grave's, with outyahrtzeits, with synagogues in Eastern European towns transformed into factories or shops or burned to the ground, with cemeteries desecrated and abandoned, t h e Jewish people turned to a medium that had always stood them in good stead—the book.

A new Jewish literary culture was born as the few survivors of community after community in all the lands devastated by the Nazi murderers compiled what be came "Yizkor books"—volumes which recreated the destroyed communities.

Luboml: The Memorial Book of a Vanished Shteti is the most recent and perhaps the most ambitious of such tender efforts. A handsome, professionally produced volume, replete with photographs and reproductions pf documents that chronicle the life of the ,village--an end-pf-term' report card from the

•.;'.'.'. administered by the Grand Rabbis of the Volynia region who ruled on matters as varied as domestic relations, social issues, and even real-estate transactions,to a more modern period when'"Rabbi Oselka came from the Warsaw district . . . a good orator who had a pleasant modem appearance . . . a nationalist and a great scholar."

"Nationalism," of course, meant Zionism, a philosophy which engaged the imagination of the young people of the village. Yisroel Ganni describes the activities of these Zionist youth organizations, chronicling their study groups, their sports activities,their participation in a communal soup kitchen, and their increasing involvement in preparation for emigration to Palestine.

Especially moving is his description of the visit of Binyornin Earshtey, a Zionist activist, to Luboml in celebration of the Balfour Declaration. We are told that "he delivered a stirring speech in Hebrew, at the Great Synagogue, to the entire town."

This simple sentence is an indication of the Jewish community's commitment to Zionism, of the religious authority's acceptance of that commitment through its authorization of the synagogue as a venue for such an observance, and of the level of Hebrew literacy in that small and beleaguered town.

Similar concise essays in the book offer insights into the social dynamics of the town. In

Autobiography of a Jewish Daughter, Rochl

Whereas most Yizkor books concentrate on the destruction of the focus communities, the editors of the Luboml volume—guided by Aaron Ziegelman, who coordinated their efforts and whose moving essay, "Letters from the Ukraine," chronicles his own return in 1995 to the village of his birth—were steadfast in their commitment to depict their town in all its vitality. They wanted to present the stories of Jews who lived exciting multidimensional Jewish lives.

They flocked to the Great Synagogue and to the smaller houses of prayer and study that abounded in the village. They participated in amateur theatricals and thronged the marketplace, which was the economicand social heart of the community. . In his essay "When Life Pulsated," Benjamin Rosenzweig recounts arguments over the location of the bathhouse, nefarious attempts to move the horse market out of the town, and the constant tension to maintain a standard of education that would equitably balance religious and secular studies.

The concluding chapters are indeed grim, concentrating as they must on the tragic fate of that vibrant community. Four thousand Jews lived in Luboml when the Germans invaded. Only 51 survived. The survivors did not forget their dead. The ancient Jewish ritual of remembrance impelled them to compile this book, which Yisroel Garrni so accurately describes as "a monument of remembrance . . . a Yizkor light for the dead."

His words are well chosen. Words, like candles, flicker bravely in mind and heart, denying the darkness. In that denial we find a small but comforting triumph.

This book is available from the Jewish Federation Library. . .

Leichter Weysman describes the role of girls and women in the town.

She writes: "It was customary to teach each girl iWijui. £>chp61, 'a. Shomer Hatzair membership. card, how to sew, as well as to read and write . . . to pray, tfcte .cpver.of 'a r a n i ' s prayer, book—it is a cpmpendi- to write a Yiddish letter, while a little knowledge of Russian did not hurt either." Implicit in this unii of of history history and and reminiscence, reminiscence, ,,llcc','..;,.. ,..;,.. description, is the assumption that girls had to be I his hi introductory i t d t th late l t scholar h In essay!! the Gloria Gvldreiqh is a novelist and essayist.

Kagan discusses the origins of the Ukrainian town trained to support themselves and to contribute to (known as,j^bivneitf%iddisbM&the 14£%century. the support of their families. Feminism, in theory, This book review is reprinted with permission He emdteasifest^e s l o ^ i f j j j p ^ m : u.nsjverving would have-puzzled the Jews of Luboml; in prac- from Congress Monthly, November/December, tice, it vtfas simply an accepted part of their lives.

1997.

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Page 84 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998 The World of Jewish Entertaining by Gil Marks (Simon and Schuster, $30) Canyon Ranch Cooking by Jeanne Jones (HarperCollins, $40) Review by Lois Friedman

"In Judaism, food, entertaining and religion are intertwined," notes cookbook author Gil Marks.

Every holiday and simcha (celebration) is an opportunity for a family and friends to share good times, good conversation and good food. People of all ages interact, share traditions and link generations.

Rabbi, caterer, cooking school teacher, founding editor of Kosher Gourmet magazine and cookbook author Marks shares his menus and recipes for informal and elegant occasions.

Being organizes is an important key in creating an atmosphere you and your guests enjoy. From formal to pizzazz, the first part of the book offers entertaining advice and step-by-step planning as a guide for the perplexed host.

This book includes sections on the holidays and Sabbath table and is filled with fascinating "tradition relates..." topics of biblical Jewish context, notes on Jewish rituals, customs and ceremonies, all written in a comfortable, readable style.

Food plays a vital role in the symbolic acts of special significance. Other sections are Family Celebrations (from baby-naming to family reunions) and Baker's Bible. From alemendrada (almond paste) to zeitoon (Middle Eastern chili olives), readers will find more than 275 wonderfully written recipes for homey, traditional foods to exciting new dishes for every type of celebration for family and friends.

A gem. An hors d'oeuvre for any occasion.

The next best thing to a stay at the world class Canyon Ranch Spa is their cookbook, Canyon Ranch Cooking. Whether you've experienced the spa many times or simply fantasize a visit, here is a book to help you create the spa experience at home, being mindful of the Canyon Ranch's guiding principle of balance and moderation.

What a beginning - a couple of dozen terrific pages of reader-friendly healthful basics - nutrition

made easy. Here's a mini Canyon Ranch course in "promoting healthy living through fitness, nutrition and lifestyle education and awareness", making the best choices in low-fat, low-calorie spa cooking, plus 39 tips and techniques to enhance flavor and not add calories.

What follows are we chapters from appetizers (a very small chapter as more calories are consumed before a meal than in the meal itself) to desserts with small portions of delicious treats like Chocolate Mocha Cheesecake, cobblers, cakes and strudel. Each chapter begins with a brief introduction of good information about the specific subject of the chapter.

This collection of recipes is a cooking course with beautiful color photos of the Tuscon desert, the Berkshires and the food. The ingredient list is followed by numerically ordered, clearly written instructions and nutritional data.

Jeanne Jones writes a weekly newspaper column and has written more than two dozen "light" cookbooks; she also developed the original Canyon Ranch menus and is still involved in their food planning.

From The World of Jewish Entertaining...

CHERRY TOMATOES STUFFED WITH SALMON MOUSSE 16 oz. canned salmon, drained, or 8 oz. smoked salmon 1/2 cup mayonaisse or 12 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature 2 tsps. fresh lemon juice 2 tsps. chopped fresh dill or 3/4 tsp. dried 1/2 tap. paprika 1/2 tsp. red pepper sauce 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup heavy cream whipped, or 1 cup sour cream 24 (about 1 pint )cherry tomatoes

In a food processor or blender, puree the salmon, mayonaisse, lemon juice, dill, paprika, red pepper sauce and salt until smooth. Fold in whipped cream, cover and chill for at least two hours or up to a day.

Slice the tops off the tomatoes and remove the seeds.

Invert over paper towels to drain. No more than an hour before serving, stuff each tomato with the salmon mixture (a pastry bag makes this easier). Serves 24.

From: Canyon Ranch Cooking-.

INDONESIAN CHICKEN WITH GRILLED BANANAS Dry rub mix: 1/2 tsp. each: ground ginger, allspice, cinnamon, and ground turmeric 1 tsp. each: ground cayenne pepper, ground curry powder, and ground paprika 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 4 skinless chicken breast halves, all visible fat removed 2 bananas, skin on 1 tbsp. light brown sugar Combine all the dry rub ingredients and mix well.

Lightly coat each chicken breast with the spice mixture; place on plate and cover tightly. Refrigerate for at least one hour before grilling.

Prepare grill. Slice bananas into halves lengthwise with the peel left on. Sprinkle the brown sugar on the bananas and rub it in as much as possible. Grill bananas lightly, cut side down. Remove from heat and set aside.

Remove chicken from refrigerator and place on grill for about five minutes a side or until done. Serve each grilled chicken breast with a grilled banana half, still in the peel.

Serves four. Each serving contains 223 calories, 2 grams of fat, 81 mg. cholesterol, 211 mg. of sodium, 17 grams of carbohydrates and 33 grams of protein. " •

Throughout Jewish history, in small towns and big cities, our people have created communities to build traditions, and community pots to care for the weak, support the needy and nourish the spirits of everyone.

Thank you for your continued generosity t o our Omaha Jewish community.

W e wish you and your loved on sweet New Year.

Jewish Federation Board of Directors ,'

.Howard Kooper, President • Forrest Knitter,Vice-President Bobble Epsteln.Vice President • Bob Leppjreasurer Jan Schneldennan, Secretary • Tom Fellman, Past President CENTER OF EXCELLENCE PRESIDENTS Mtai Detnan • Gloria Kaslow • Marie Sanford • Jerry Kohil • Ann Goldstein

CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN Margo Rlekes, Human Resources • Marty Shutert, Planning & Evaluation • ArnleWeltz, Budget &, Sorinjuster, Building & Grounds • Steve Levtoger.Jewish Press • MichadErman,roundation* David Goldberg,Y}O CAMWMGN CHAIRMEN Bob Bsenberg and Bob Newman, Men's Campaign • Maxine Kirshenbium and Jan Schndderman, Women's SENIOR RABBIS Rabbi AryehAzrfel • Rabbi PaulDrazsn 'RabbiHowardKutner STAFF Jan Perelman, Executive Director • Marty Ricks, Endowment Director • David Kampschneider, Con Carol Katzmanjewish Press Editor • Julee Katzman, Executive Assistant •• Pam Monsky, Communications Cindy Kaufman,Women's Campaign Dlrector/FRD • Sharon Klrshenbaum.YJO Director

September 18,1998

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 85

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WE ARE THE PEOPLE OF THE BOOK We kiss the books We buy the books • We teach each other how to read the books

JEWISH EDUCATIONAL and LIBRARY SERVICES Jewish Educational Services Jewish Federation Library The Committee for Lifelong Jewish Learning Friedel Jewish Academy

MAY WE ALL BE INSCRIBED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE

Omaha sylviaMcNair Symphony 1998 -1999 SEASON

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Page 86 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE September 18,1998

In memory of an'.Ashet'Chayll, a Woman of Valor: (Editor's note: this eulogy was given by ness which many others fail to realize.

In her school of human ethics she taught that Rabbi Paul Drazen at Beth El Synagogue during funeral services for Rose Blumkin on Aug. all people should be treated alike. She was willing to extend credit to women when others would not.

11,1998.)

What can be said as we gather to pay our respects to Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara, Rose Blumkin?

It is true 'Mrs. B' had been failing these past months; at age 104 such things happen. Yet, her bountiful years allowed us to forget that life must come to an end. We are saddened now; a matriarch has died.

Despite our loss and our sadness, this day does not mark a tragedy. Rose Blumkin's days were spent surrounded by the love of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She earned the admiration and respect of people across this city and around the world.

So we review today a life well lived and well loved as we fulfill the task our tradition sets for us, to review the life of one departed to learn a lesson for our lives from,it.

Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara has been remembered through tributes and recollections since word of her death became known on Sunday.

Her story has been repeated: she left Russia to rejoin her husband here. How it was in the basement of the family clothing store a furniture mart was born. Her abilities and successes, her willingness to work helped her to accomplish dreams. Her generosity is legend.

As people were asked, "What kind of person was Rose Blumkin?" their responses focus on "business person" or "entrepreneur." That might be the answer; but that is only part of the answer.

Rose Blumkin was a teacher. She did so much, but those accomplishments were the curriculum she taught, not an end unto themselves.

Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara was a teacher. In her business school she taught the importance of valuing the customer as a person:

"Tell the trvM; be fair} sell eheap-jcmd:, ,/••

always respect the people who enter the \ ' store,"

'• '

_ _

' • • • ' ] •

She created loyalty among her customers, by her loyalty to them. As she lived and worked by those maxims, she taught a method for success in busi-

A HAPPY

New year

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Rose Blumkin was a teacher. She knew the power of stories for teaching values, a lesson she learned from her father. She would tell stories because of their impact and enduring nature. Her words could engage a person, convince a person, teach a person, guide a person.

She knew the power of a;good name, the value of a good name, and she passed the lesson of preserving a good name on to her family.

Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara was a teacher. She taught the values of patriotism by living them. America was not just the new world for her, it was the whole world for her. It was a place of miracles, where opportunity was given and success was available to all.

She reminded her students, that is her family, that no one is such a big shot: we all come from the same place and, in time, we all go back to the same place.

Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara was a teacher. In her school of human relations, she taught that family was of utmost importance.

The second of eight children, she saved her pennies to help bring the remainder of her family over from Russia. As they came over, she bought a house large enough for all 17 to live in as they became acculturated to the United States.

There were family picnics in Carter Lake; what joy came from being able to have the family ride the street car together. How perfectly reasonable such things were, because family values were a natural part of her life.

'Mrs. B' was a devoted daughter who taught family values by living them. The love she held for her mother, the care she gave her mother, the respect afforded her mother was deeply ingrained in her children, who did the same for her. Her lessons of proper behavior were so much a part of life that they needed no additional review.

Those same family values shown throughout the - b:* K *:-- .*,**-'• . ' • ' •". •'» * * •' years as she was so proud of her children. What a joy for her that her family could go to schools to learn. Smiles came to her face as she talked with great grandchildren and bounced them on her : knees.

Ashley Boehm, helped her great-grandmother, Rose Blumkin, celebrate her 100th birthday in 1993. Ashley is the daughter of Claudia Boehm and the granddaughter of Babe Conn and the late Jerome I. Conn.

September 18,1998 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 87

Rose Blumkin, Hayarasa bat ShSomo Yosef and Sara (Continued from page 86) Rose Blumkin was a teacher in lessons of sharing. She did so by giving charity of the traditional sort. The Rose Theater, the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home are the most obvious examples of her giving.

How much we have all benefited from her readiness to give.

But Mrs. B also showed the value of giving quietly. The stories are legend, such as young couples coming in and being given what they needed: - of people who were told, "take it and pay me when you can;" - of the communities ravaged by disaster, who would see Nebraska Furniture Mart trucks coming filled with items to help them get back on their feet again; - of the man who came into Isadore Blumkin's store to pawn his coat during the winter. He left, with his cash and his coat. .

Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara taught the greatest of charity, of giving the opportunity to have a job. When refugees through the years needed a job, their -willingness to work would get them their start as they worked for "Mrs. B.' She was a human dynamo, one who shared her charge and enthusiasm for life.

Rose Blumkin was a teacher and a mama and a great gal who enriched the lives all who knew her. She created a special place in the hearts of her country, her city, and above all her family.

Like the flower ''-whose, ti&me -she . -shared, she Ze&ve& (:'/ etfdurin^'memories. - \ A verse in the book of proverbs notes, "A persondies and goes to eternal rest and the mourners go about the market place." Most times the death of a loved one is a loss experienced only by family and close friends.

Though their life has changed, the remainder of the world continues on, doing, their business, unaware of

the grief which touched thatfamily.

But when people in the streets and in the market place acknowledge a death, it is a sign the person they mourn was a remarkable person. So it is that today, as we remember Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara in this sanctuary, she is mourned throughout Omaha and around the world; she is remembered for making this world a bit brighter and all bur lives better.

May the Lord grant solace to those who mourn Hayarasa bat Shlomo Yosef and Sara, ' M r s > B ' 8OC Âťal iz es with Sen. Edward Zorinsky, Nebraska's United as webid her "go i n s t a t e 8 S e n a t o r f r o m l 9 7 6 u i l t i l h e d i e d i n l 9 8 7 . peace."

As we say the traditional words, "the Lord has given, the Lord has taken," let us remember that what He gave us through the generous years He gave to Rose Blumkin can never be taken away.

And when we follow the lessons she taught in life, we make her memory to be as a blessing.

Lift photo: 'Mrs. B' rides her electric golf cart around at work. Above: she celebrates her 1001 h birthday with son, Louis Blumkin, Knmddaughter Ellie Batt, daughter Frances Hatlimd sister Anne Rosenblatt. .t...

From The Blumkin Family and Nebraska Furniture Mart

700 South 72nd St. â&#x20AC;˘ Omaha NE

Page 88

September 18,1998

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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