Jewish Presr
NE HIST SOCIETY 1500 R ST LINCOLN NE 6 8 5 0 3 - 1 6 5 1
Serving Nebraska and Western Iowa for more than 75 years
Vol. LXXVI
No. 14 Omaha, NE
29 Kislev, 5759
December 18.1998
Community celebrates JCC campus rejuvenation groundbreaking
Phil Sokolof, left, donated $2 million to the project;-the Fitness Center will be dedicated in his name. He spoke with Mark Sanford, right, JCC President and project architect, at the groundbreaking. Sokolofs gift brings the project to within $500,000 of its goal of $8.75 million. Contributions can still be made by calling the Federation, 334-8200.
The children of the JCC's Child Development Center (CDC) provided entertainment for the more than 200 people who attended the ceremony last Friday. Included in the JCC Campus Rejuvenation are a new CDC, a "Women's Health Spa, a new Jewish Federation Library, and the Sokolof Health and Fitness Center. More photos on pages 10-11.
Jewish Federatioft^nte^ Community website launched
education in Moscow by Carol Katzman
by Pam Monsky, Federation Communications Director
A Jewish Omaha website, sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Omaha, is now available to thepublicatwwwjewishomaha.org. The website represents pver a year of information gathering by the Human Resource Development committee of the Federation, Nand includes information on synagogues, Centers of Excellence and Jewish organizations. There is also a 'links' page, email greeting cards with Jewish music, and virtual tours of the JCC and Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. 'i "This website is a work in progress," said Margo •Riekes, chairman of the HRD committee. "We will eventually add chat,rooms and other innovative pieces to the site. We welcome comments and-suggestions from the community."
One of the main purposes of the website is to reach people outside of the Omaha area who may be considering moving here, but don't know what Jewish life is like in our area. It is also a tool for Omahans who have left to keep in touch, and those in our community who;may be unaware of what the Jewish community has to offer.
"Thank God our parents and grandparents had the foresight to come to America," said Janet Glass on her return from the Major Gifts Mission to Moscow. "If I live to be a hundred, I'll never forget what I saw." What the group did observe were the living conditions of some of Moscow's more than 200,000 Jews, many of them elderly, still remaining in the formerSoviet Union's largest city. While the mission also visited the usual tourist sites - the Kremlin Museum, Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral - they also toured Moscow's newest synagogue, a day school, and a hot meal program for seniors. Led by co-chairmen Jan and Les Schneiderman, the mission group consisted of Janet and Mort Glass; Bob Belgrade, and Federation Executive Director Jan Perelman. They were joined in Israel by Judy and Mike Feldman. "We met a 92-year-old doctor and his wife, also a doctor," continued Mrs. Glass. "He had been the chief surgeon in the army and operated on Russia's field marshall during World War II. "Though the couple had a bigger apartment than others we saw, the space had not been updated in years," she added. "They have no children and live on a $70 a month pension. They're all alone." Bob Belgrade agreed with Glass' assessment of the living conditions. (Continued on page 12)
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The overall look of the website is in conjunction with the "Good Jewish Life" brochure that was mailed to the community in September. "The site is colorful, interactive and really fun," said Riekes. "We're hoping that everyone has a Elderly pensioners enjoy their only hot meal of the chance to look at what we've accomplished!" day at one of Moscow's few Jewish soup kitchens. .
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 18,1998 ParashatMikketz
Find out what's going on at www. jewishomaha.org!
Lures and Pitfalls The intriguing character of Joseph includes a side of him not often discussed. Here is Joseph, Viceroy of Egypt, powerful to an extent no dream could have imagined-and here 3706 S. 132nd Slreel. are his brothers before him. Phone (402) 330-5050 What could Joseph have been thinking? . ^(402)330.0789: The cat-and-mouse game he plays with them over a period of time may have been only this: Give DEADLINES HAVE NO MERCY me time to think this thing out! Who am I and Hememter2MnSs: £ g ^ , " ? what do these foreigners mean to me? . Our Bulltliu Board Service is open 24 hours, 7 days a week Joseph's mind must have gone over the whole background. Here they were, 12 children of an old " Free BBS Software! -BBS: 330-3900 man. And his brothers hated him. He had to acknowledge to himself, secretly, that they had every right. For he had foolishly boasted to them that he was destined to be their master, even that their father and mother would acknowledge him master. But did that justify their treatment of him? Did that justify their selling him off to a caraAlan H. Friedman van of merchants? President • Graduate Gemologist Among the goods that the merchants sold in 9107 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 320 Egypt was a small contingent of slaves. Joseph Beverly Hills, California 90210 remembered being tied to a small group of other 888*489*4545 • Fax 310*278*5449 slaves, with loose nooses around the throat. Any Member of West Coast Diamond Cliib slave who made too hasty a move-especially if he Estate Jewelers Association of America tried to escape-strangled others, so that the noises American Gem Trade Association of distress called the merchants, to preserve their property. Property! What humiliation! The humiliation of being displayed in Egypt like so many bushels of grain or so many ounces of fine medicaments before buyers in the market-place. He remembered how he was relieved when An Independent School Dedicated Specifically to Potiphar had purchased him, after he had been Bright Students with Specialized Learning Needs eyed and admired and pinched and slapped by more than a few buyers from the town's Red Light • LD/Dysleda; Gifted; ADD/ADHD • Grades 1-9; COED; 6:1 Student Teacher Ratio district. • Individualized Educational Program Potiphar himself would have given him to his • Success Oriented to Enhance Self-Esteem wife. Joseph knew that. But since she had acted without consulting her husband, Potiphar had sent 832 North State St., P.O. Box 467, Elkhorn, NE Joseph off to prison. And then the interpretation of 402-289-0899 dreams, Pharaoh's dreams among them. And Joseph was now made Viceroy, he was mar-' CLIP & SAVE ried off to a priest's daughter, arid he was the most honored man in Egypt next to Pharaoh. All that passed through his mind in a flash, when his brothers stood before him. He could not FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18 resist asking about his old father. Is he still living? Temple Israel Hanukkah Family Dinner, c That was one thing. But to acknowledge that his 6 p.m., at Temple Israel L brothers were, well, his brothers? Was he now to SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 P risk giving up all he had achieved for these oshkosh b'gosh country bumpkins? Was he to risk Humash Class, 4:15 p.m., at Beth El , his wife's scorn of the low commoners, and his chilOt dren's, curious but clearly articulated disdain for SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 s Jewish War Veterans Meeting, 10:30 a.m., A their rudely dressed and mannered foreign uncles? The Bible doesn't help us understand Joseph's Boy Scouts Troop Meeting, 4 p.m. . -V YJO "Joy of Giving," noon, at the South E problem, other than to indicate that he mulled over the problem a long time before he acknowlOmaha Boys & Girls Club edged the brothers. • •' . • New Moon Group, 3 p.m., at the • - Notice that the Bible repeats this problem-withRiekes Museum out saying so—with Moses. Like Joseph an Beth El Hanukkah Dinner & Movie Night, Egyptian prince, Moses has to figure out who he 5:30 p.m., at Beth El really is. Moses eventually is forced by the Lord to Beth Israel Hanukkah Luncheon, , retreat from all yearnings for assimilation. But 12:30 p.m., at Beth IsraelJoseph is obliged to make the choice for himself MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 when Judah's eloquent appeal overwhelms him. YES Program, 9:30 a.m. Joseph risks everything. There were enough, highCub Scouts, 7 p.m. ranking Egyptian officials, jealous of Joseph, to make the quiet suggestion to Pharaoh to send this TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22 Hebrew character back with his uncouth brothers, Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. Boy Scouts, 7:30 p.m. , _ send him packing back to~where was it? Canaan? Any fool would have.to store up grain against a I L rainy day or rainy (that is to say, no-rain) years. | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23 , _ Beth Israel Lunch 'n Learn, noon, at Joe p Send him packing. And rescue Asenath. After all, she's a priest's daughter. You'll find another husKirshenbaum's office band for her. Just annul the marriage. Legally, it & & never took place. That Canaanite abducted her. . THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24 Look, your Majesty, this man has made fools of us s Walk-in Drop-in. 9:30 a.m. . A « long enough. Get rid of him. V V Joseph knew all about palace intrigue. But that's g All evonts held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. E not what bothered him. Who am I, he thought. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of Don't people have a right to better themselves? If I the abovo events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. am not now an Egyptian prince, what am I? Assimilation. The lure that threatens every siic- : cessful person! Who am I-second to Pharaoh, or Joseph ben Jacob-Israel? Joseph made the right choice. In Egyptian history he would not even have been a foot-note. In the PHARMACY & HOMECARE Bible he is Joseph, Joseph ha-tzaddik,Joseph the Righteous. Citywide Delivery 7 Locations
Sir Speedy
ALAN FRIEDMAN G O .
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SELMA FANNY LOTMAN BERNSTEEN Selma Bernstien of Lincoln died Nov. 22 at the ago of 86. Survivors include son and daughter-in-law,. Zeff and Krista Bernstien of Stirling, Ontario, Canada; daughter and son-in-law, Hava and Dr. Irving Rothman of Houston; grandchildren, Marcy Lynn Rothman, Drs. Andrea and Robert Stoler of Dallas, and Jaela Elizabeth Bernstien; great-granddaughter, Danielle Stoler. Mrs. Bernstien was a member of Tifereth Israel Synagogue and past president of Sisterhood. She had also been president of Lincoln Hadassah Chapter; president of Missouri Valley Region of Hadassah; National vice-president of Hadassah and served on the national board until her death, and was Israel Bond Chairperson for Lincoln. ABNERRUBIN Services for Abner Rubin, 71, were held Dec. 11 at Beth Israel Synagogue. Burial was at Golden Hill Cemetery. Suryivors include daughters and sons-in-law; Tammy and David Abramowitz of Jerusalem and Sydney Rubin Lewis and Andrew Lewis of Atlanta; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Ben Jr. and Debra Rubin of Kansas City, MO; sister-in-law, Sharon Helm, also of Kansas City; eight grandchildren; and six nieces. Mr. Rubin was an Omaha real estate developer and former owner of Rubin Ford in Plattsmouth. Memorials to Beth Israel Synagogue or the heart fund. ALLIE BABENDURE Graveside services for Allie Babendure were held Dec. 1 at Emanu El Memorial Park, Houston; He died Nov. 28 in Houston. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Harris Babendure. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Ruth Babendure; children, Stuart Babendure and wife, Ilene, Sharyn King and husband, Barry, Ronald. Babendure and wife, Betty; grandchildren, Viki, Heather.and Stacy King, and Carly;arid Orin Babendure. Donations to Seven Acres Jewish Geriatric Center, Houston, TX. HOWARD (BUD)BARISH Services for Howard "Bud" Barish of Beverly Hills, CA, formerly of Omaha, were held Nov. 23. in California. He was 76. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy; son, Robert Barish; daughter, Laurie Barish Poreira; three grandchildren; and sister, Lois Barish. Mr. Barish had built the largest Chrysler dealership in Los Angeles, served as President of the • Southern California Automobile Dealers Association and. was Chairman of the Chrysler National Dealers Council. . .,'• Memorials to the American Cancer Society or Children's Memorial Hospital of Chicago.
'Joy of Giving' needs volunteers, donations The third YJO 'Joy.-of Giving' project, which allows youngsters from the Omaha Boys and Girls Clubs to select gifts'for family members, will be held Dec. 20 at the. South Omaha Boys and Girls Club. Volunteers are needed to help the children select and wrap gifts. ; Donations of gifts and cash are being accepted by calling Sharon Kirshenbaum, YJO Director, at 3346485.
For Safety's Sake
KohtVs
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CUP&SAVE
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Let Children Take A Back Seat.
December 18,1998
SYNAGOGUES TEMPLUSRAEL Member o( the tfajon'of American - Hebrew Congregations , 7023 Case Street, Omaha, NE 68182 , 506-6536 FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to You, 3:45 p.m. Rabbi Azriel and the Temple Youth Group will lead a Shabbat service at Remington Heights; Shabbat Evening Service, 7:30 p.m..Rabbi Azriel and.Cantor Blum will officiate, along with the Temple Tones and Kol Rina Choir at the Hanukkah Family Service. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by the Temple Sisterhood. SITTER SERVICE Sitter Service is available each Friday evening, Saturday mornings when there is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah and Sunday mornings when there is . Religious School. Please make a reservation so we may plan accordingly. Cost is $2 per family if reservations are made prior to Friday. Drop-ins is $3 per family. Sorry, no facilities for infants. SATURDAY: Shabbat service, 10:30 a.m. Steven Lawrence Patton, son of Linda and Joel. Patton, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. Simcha B'Shabbat--An informal Shabbat service that includes study and discussion of Jewish texts. Regular Shabbat service will be held in the Sanctuary. No Adult Education classes Dec. 24 through Jan. 31. T1FERETH ISRAEL Member of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln, NE 68602 423-8569 Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan on Monday and Thursday, at 7:15 aan. FRIDAY: Early Family Service, 7 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Kadima, noon. SATURDAY, Dec. 26: College students Shabbat. ROSE BlUMKIN JEWISH HOME SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., led by Marty Shukert. CHABAD HOUSE . I8G6S0.120thSWOjnaha,NE68144 Phone: 330480a E-MML-chabad@aoL.com Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. FRDDAY: Mincha, 5 p.m., followed by Kabbalat Shabbat service. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m., followed by Kiddush. Mincha-Ma'ariv, 4:45 p.m. followed by Havdalah. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m. Visit the "Dreidel House" at the Omaha Children's Museum, 1:30-3:30 p.m. MONDAY through FRDDAY: Services, 7 a.m. TUESDAY: Parshah Insights, 7 p.m. THURSDAY: Halachah 101 Class, 8 a.m.; "Women of Worth," noon. ' OFFUT AIR FOBCE BASE 25th and Capehart, Omaha, 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.
Jewish Press , Omaha, NE
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CANDLELIGHTING: 4:38 p.m.
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of the Union of - Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America . 1502! No. 32nd St., Omaha, NE 68104 556-6288 Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat service, 4:40 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 8:45 a.m., Little People service, 10:15 a.m.; Jr. Congregation, 10:30 a.m. Babysitter service courtesy of Sisterhood; Kiddush luncheon sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Siegel in honor of their 43rd wedding anniversary; Class with Rabbi, 4 p.m.; Mincha, 4:30 p.m., followed by Shalosh Seudot, Ma'ariv and Havdalah. SUNDAY: Services, 9 ajn.; Hanukkah luncheon, 12:30 pjm.; Mincha, 4:40 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 aan.; Mincha, 4:40 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Kutner, noon, at the office of Joe Kirshenbaum, Noddle Development, 13720 FNB Pkwy, Suite 100, subject: "Business Ethics;" Rabbi Kutner continues with a Chumash Class at 7:30 p.m., followed by a Talmud Class at 8:30 p.m. at the synogogue. B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 618 Mynstor St,, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 Phone: 322-4705 E-MAIL: docjeb2@juno.com FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. Ben Simon, an Israeli Sabra, will speak on "Israel, my birth place and its problems as judged by a native son." Oneg Shabbat prepared by Peggy DeLand and Sandra Kurland, will follow.
BETH ELSYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism 14506 California, Omaha, NE 68154 492-8550 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: Services, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.; Kiddush following services; The D'var Torah is given by Daniel ChristensenjTSS (Torah Study Skills) 10 a.m.; Sitter service, 10 a.m.; Shabbat Story Time (pre-kindergarten and under) 11 a.m.; K'tantan (kindergarten through 3rd grade) 10:45 a.m.; Humash with Rashi study session, 4:15 p.m. (1/2 hour before M/M); Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services, 4:45 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. HANUKKAH DINNER & MOVIE NIGHT: Sunday, Dec. 20, 5:30 p.m. Reservations may be sent to Beth El.
Children's Museum to host Dreidel House
CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURUN SOUTH STREET TEMPLE
Member of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations 2061 S, 20th St., Lincoln, NE 68502-2797 435-8004 Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. FREDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabbat worship, 9:30 a.m.; Torah study, 10:30 a.m.; Annual Hanukkah dinner and celebration, 6:30 p.m. SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Adult Education, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Choir rehearsal, 7:30 p.m.
Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah
Top photo: Rabbi Mendel Katzman welcomes Tom Fellman (left), and his daughter, Louri Sullivan, and grandson to the Dreidel House; bottom photo: Dreidel House offered children an educational Hanukkah. Hamutal Ginsburg, Lindsay Belmont and Shiri Tene wrap Hanukkah gifts for Jewish Family Service's Project Dreidel.
BEYT SHALOM An Affiliate of the Jewish Iteeonstructionist Federation P.O. Box 241130, Omaha, NE 68124-5130 758-9233 http://C6nie.to/bevtsbalom/ FRIDAY: Kaballat Shabbat, 7:3d p.m., followed by the Hanukkah party. Members of Derek Altaian's Holocaust class SATURDAY: Learners'minyan, 9 a.m. Religious School is out for Winter Break. surf the web reviewing a web site on German Synagogues destroyed during WWII. Talmud Classes resume Sunday, Jan. 3. FRIDAY, December 25: Shabbat in the home. Torah's computer lab was a gift from the Beth EUudaic Shop.
The Dreidel House is back at the Omaha,, Children's Museum, 500 South 20th Street. On Sunday, Dec. 20, 1:30-3:30 p.m., there Will be special crafts and projects, puppet shows, storytelling, a special Hanukkah video presen-',. tation (by the producers of Sesame Street) and oil-making demonstrations with a real olive press. The program is open to the community.
PERSONAL Dear friends, family, co-workers and residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home: I want to thank you for all the good wishes, visits, dinners, etc., for a speedy recovery since my hospitalization for surgery. I also want to thank Rabbis Azriel, Drazen and Katzman and Cantor Fettman. for visiting me during my most difficult times. AH your prayers were special and well received. • Anne Joseph
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE , December 18,1998
Editorial
What's Jewish about the Jewish community?
As part of the strategic plan passed two years ago by the Jewish .Federation Board of Directors, a Jewish Federation Council was recommended. Composed of seasoned leaders from the annual campaigns, the Federation, Centers of Excellence and Synagogues, the purpose of the group is to act as a think-tank on the important issues of the day. When it met for the first time last month, an update was given by the leadership of the Jewish Community Center on the status of the Building Campaign. As readers now know, the -vision has ;become a reality as the ceremonial groundbreaking took place last Friday. We all take pride in this monumentous achievement. . . • iii/ . •••• But questions were asked about what takes place inside the bricks and mortar of this campus. Was enough 'Jewish programming' happening on 132nd Street? Is the emphasis on Jewish education translating into real strides in learning? Do our leaders understand what it means to be Jewishly-educated? The questions are not easy ones - and some research is required. First the good news - there is Jewish education on this campus, but i t doesn't always take the form of what we traditionally know as formal education. We are doing a good job with education, but we all know it could be better.
Letter from Israel
preschoolers learning about the holidays, Hadassah's Oneg Shabbats for the residents of the Blumkin Home, the Library's Jewish book discussion group, BBYO's Teen Dating Program - the list goes on. But we would be fooling ourselves if we thought the gamut of activities, fine as it is, was enough. That's why the formation of the JELS search comand the universities. •:..••• mittee is so important for the future of the Jewish Case in point: .Rabbi Eric Weiss, a Reform rabbi soul of this community. JELS, Jewish Educational skilled in Jewish learning and healing, conducted and Library Services (the old B JE and Library), is workshops for health care professionals, JCC staff, honing its.job description in order to get someone and the community in the art of Jewish healing. He into Omaha who can do the kind of Jewish educaalso spoke to Jewish teens and visited with' residents tion our full-time rabbis do not have time to.do.it would be presumptuous to ask our congregational of the Blumkin Home during his October visit. Last summer, Orthodox rabbis and their wives rabbis to educate the entire community when they spent two weeks here as part of the SEED pro- already have so many responsibilities. gram, teaching individuals and giving lectures at In our hearts, we all know that we don't know the JCC at night. The Klutznick Symposium, an enough about acting and living Jewishly. annual scholarly event, offered academic lectures Whatfs next? We build our bricks and mortar so we can of very high quality. And Beyt Shalom, Omaha^ house a future Omaha Jewry educated in Jewish knowlReconstructionist Synagogue, presented a series of edge and values. The Jewish Press will start by enlightenstudy sessions by Rabbi Myer S. Kripke. ing you about Jewish education already available in These are but the tip of the iceberg. Not a week Omaha in hopes you'll set the example for.your children. passes without dozens of Jewish programs bringing When they ask what you did to ensure the survival hundreds of adults and children to t h e ' J ' - of the Jewish community, we want you to be proud of rehearsals for To Bubble and Zayde with LOVE, your answer. The actual 'classes' are few in number and sporadic in appearance. Should the Jewish Cultural Arts Council be responsible for all Jewish education?. Lectures, workshops, and one-on-one learning are often sponsored by other Centers of Excellence, the Federation, and, of course, the; synagogues...in addition to the JCAC, our Jewish organizations,
Cranberry sauce and stuffing? by Harry Allen
Knowing what we know now, we would still carpeted with the golden brown of crops waiting to Yosef Begun was one of the most famous refuseniks be harvested. in the former Soviet Union. He spent many years in choose the same option. Russian prisons for his insistence that he be allowed But, like the Beguns' Russia, America is not easiLike Begun's Russia, much of America still to immigrate to Israel. . ly cast aside. ,' • .. retains a cherished place in our pantheon of memoWhen we moved to Lincoln, NE, from Denver, ry. There are others,-Americans and Israelis, who Though he lacked the public relations skills of his colleague, Natan Sharansky and had no interest in the memories, the landscape, the friends, remained feel that American experiences must be shunted aside. We do not feel it so. becoming another Israeli politician, he is one of the with us. So, too, it is with Nebraska. great heroes of our time - a person who suffered much The 22 years we spent there as part of a univerJews who came to America sang the old Yiddish in Russia as a result of his Zionist-Jewish yearnings. sity, and as part of a Jewish community, were won- songs - Der Alte Heim and Shetele Belz - but given Begun davens in our morning minyan at Moreshet . derful and not easily forgotten ones. We still feel the choice, they never would have returned there. Yisrael, the flagship Conservative congregation in badly when we hear news that old friends have They had cast their lot with America. Jerusalem. He had been away for a few weeks, so I died, that the community has increasing problems, So, to, it is with Israelis of all stripes. We have asked him where he had been when he reappeared a that Big Red is only ranked number 13 in the polls! cast our lot with Israel out of conviction. few days ago. . We do miss the fall, when the Nebraska plains are Anyone for turkey and cranberry sauce?—--•-.; •(,. His answer startled me. "I have been visiting 'Russia," he said. "Why would you do that?" I queried. Response to Joseph Aaron's column "Because I love Russia -1 love the land; I love the people and I have so many friends still there," he went on,' by Joel Alpersoh "It's a cra2y place, but maybe some day they will figure out how to run the government." I liked most of what Joseph Aaron had to say in munity rather than just an organizational process. "For me," he said, "Israelis my home, but I will his "Merry Hanukkah" editorial printed in the Dec. Why is the UJA/Federated system being critinever lose my love for Russia." cized? There is no other organization which so i The conversation brought to mind a letter to the edi- 4 issue of our Jewish Press. He explained that we need to make Judaism effectively betters the lives of so many Jews irre:^tor which'appeared in the Jerusalem Post earlier.-It r: criticized Americans living in Israel who still choose to more meaningful and fun in order to draw more spective of their observance or Jewish denominaJews into the Jewish community. Fair enough. tion. And no Federation I know has ever suggested ;- celebrate Thanksgiving. The letter produced a veritable cascade of responses But once again, yet another article holds UJA and or behaved as if a donation can substitute for leaddefending the practice. But the original letter writer now the Federations accountable for the woes of ing a meaningful Jewish life. Why does Aaron think otherwise? • the Jewish world. refused to back down. Aaron writes " . . . the UJAers has made it too And since when did Orthodoxy keep Jews from The case was clearly stated: "If you live in Israel, you must shed the silliness of American culture" easy to be Jewish . . . " And later he adds " . . . if getting involved? Aaron must know that there are you give your $25 or more to t h e Jewish many forms of Orthodox (as well as Reform and (though this is hardly the case for Israel as a whole). Yet, here is Yosef Begun who continues a love affair Federation, you've done your Jewish duty, are a Conservative) Judaism available to Jews in this with the former Soviet union. The juxtaposition of member of the Jewish community in good stand- country. Does he really believe that Orthodoxy has Begun's comments with the letter in the Post brings ing." Finally, even the Orthodox are indicted as he such a chilling affect on Jewish life in America? Finally and most disappointing is that such a into sharp focus our feelings about casting our lot with writes " . . . the Orthodox have made it too hard to Israel while still retaining ties with an America.we be Jewish . . ." Aaron seems to hold only these negative article has been printed by our. own groups responsible for our continuous challenges. Jewish Press during our Federation's annual camleft behind. ' . He is wrong. The Jewish community is and has paign season. - . - . . • • Israel is a fascinating piece of geography. With all Those who help to build our annual campaign its problems - venal and incompetent politicians run- always been everyone's responsibility. It is far too ning the government; religious and ethnic polariza- convenient to hold only a few groups to blame. work very hard to raise the money that funds the tion; and a yet-unsolved peace with our neighbors, it is UJA, the Federations, and the Orthodox don't have activities Aaron (and all of us) wants to sustain for us an opportunity to be part of the greatest Jewish the sole responsibility for making Jews Jewish . . . and develop our community. Articles such as this we all do. Yes, Jewish leadership organizations, do nothing to help that effort. enterprise in 2000 years. The Jewish Press has become a wonderful source Jews have not yet fully worked out how to govern the synagogues, and the Federations can and must themselves in a 21st century setting. So, to be here, help to reach more Jews more effectively. There is of information for the Omaha Jewish community. - and be a very small part of that challenge, is a great clearly a tremendous amount of work to be done. In that tradition, I hope it will more carefully : opportunity which we undertake with enthusiasm. But in the end, reaching our goals will be a com- choose the articles it prints.
Another point of iftew
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. . ' ' Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish ; Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. • •' The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is'published weekly on Friday for $26 per calendar year U.S.; $30 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads and photos i s Thursday; noon, eight days prior to publication. • .• • Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154; Telephone 402-334-6448; FAX 402-334-5422; ~aol.com>
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Steve Levlngor Chairman Carol Katzman Editor-ln-Chlel Morris Maline
Editor Emeritus. •.,. Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Larry Axelrod Advertising Manager Barbara Frankal Rocky Stern Sales representatives George Schapiro Volunteer
. JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Lloyd Roitstein, Vice Chairman; Fred Tichauer, Treasurer; Joanie Ja'cobson, Secretary; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Steve Daiion;Linda Saltzman; George Schapiro; Howard Silber; Steve Simon. ... Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashruth of any product or establishment. .••••..."
December 18,1998
Grassroots letters to Zyuganov protest anti-Semitic threats
by Lev Krichevsky
MOSCOW (JTA) — Responding to rising concern about the deteriorating climate of anti-Semitism in Russia, Jewish organizational leaders are grappling with how best to ensure the Jewish community's safety. At a meeting last week, the governing board of the Russian Jewish Congress decided it would lobby the international community to halt contacts with Russia's Communist Party because of its failure to censure one of its members of Parliament, Albert Makashov, who made several public anti-Semitic statements earlier this fall. But some members of the umbrella group are saying that the move does not go far enough, while others believe the threat of anti-Semitism has been overstated. The* debate over the extent of anti-Semitism in Russia and what steps to take in response comes against the backdrop of a deteriorating climate for Jews in Russia. In addition to Makashov's remarks and the Duma's failure to censure him, a lawmaker long supportive of Jewish interests, Galina Starovoitova, was assassinated last month. • Most leaders of the congress, which unites leading representatives of the business community, public figures and prominent rabbis, agree that the Russian Jewish leadership should carry out a lowprofile political offensive against anti-Semitism. "Our mission is not about loud public statements, but about pragmatic work inside and outside of Russia," Yevgeny Satanovsky, a member of the group's board, said after the closed meeting. It was with this goal in mind that a majority of participants at the meeting supported the initiative of Vladimir Goussinsky, the group's president, to ask the U.S. Congress, the European Parliament and legislative assemblies of major European nations to halt all contact with the 121 Communist and nationalist lawmakers who rejected the censure resolution, according to Moscow Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, a board member. But some
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Pinchas Goldschmidt, a board member. But some board members are questioning what positive impact these moves will have on Russian Jews. *1 don't feel that everything that could have been done was done," said Rabbi Berel Lazar, the chief emissary of the Lubavitch movement in Russia. "All this activity doesn't reassure the Jewish population and doesn't change the minds of the people on the street." "It isn't enough to rely on support of the interna( tional community. Jews should get together and show that they arenot afraid to express their opinion," agreed Tankred Golenpolsky, founder of Evreyskaya Gazeta, the leading Jewish newspaper in Moscow. Gole,npolsky advocates the idea of staging a mass Jewish rally in Moscow against fascism and antiSemitism in Russia. Yosef Kobzon, a popular singer and Jewish lawmaker who walked out of a parliamentary session saying he would not return until Makashov was suitably chastised, supports the idea of a rally - as does Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov. According to sources close to the mayor, Luzhkov said he would personally join in such a demonstration. But most of the leaders of the congress rejected the proposal, saying it would jeopardize the safety of Russian Jews. Jewish leaders also decided to approach Prime Minister Yevgeny Primakov and Russian Prosecutor General Yuri Skuratov in an attempt to make them express a clear stand on anti-Semitism and take legal measures against Makashov and other ultranationalists. : Primakov has kept silent on the issue'so far. -;\ • Skuratov announced last month that his-agency had found evidence proving that Makashov's statements at several rallies earlier this fall incited ethnic strife -- a crime punishable under Russia's criminal code. But the case has stalled.
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Jewish leadership in Russia struggles with worsening climate
UCSJ Action Alert draws response The Union for Soviet Jews (UCSJ) renewed its call for Russian Federation Duma Deputy Albert Makasbov to be immediately expelled from the Communist party. The UCSJ Moscow Bureau will deliver over 100 additional letters from 12 states, as well as Canada and Sweden, to Communist party chief Gennady Zyuganov. This appeal calls upon the Communist Party to take steps to reconsider the Duma's decision to refuse to censure Makashov, a retired Russian General, in light of the spiraling antiSemitic violence and rhetoric in Russia. In early November, UCSJ national director, Micah Naftalin and UCSJ international bureau director, Leonid Stonov brought an earlier, round of letters to Moscow for special delivery to Chairman Zyuganov at his Duma office. They were in Moscow for the inauguration of UCSJ's USAID-funded project to monitor human rights in the Russian provinces. Last month General Makashov was filmed yelling at an audience of supporters: "To the grave with all the Yids," and "I will round up all the Jews and send them to the next world." Also, looking for someone to target for the economic problems facing Russia, General Makashov declared: "Who is to blame? The executive branch, the bankers, and the mass media are to blame. Usury, deceit, corruption, and thievery are flourishing in the country. That is why I call the reformers yids." "If the Communist Party is going to have any role in a democratic Russia, it cannot show even the slightest sign, let. alone such an explicit example, of acceptance of viciously anti-semitic threats like those of General Makashov," declared Yosif I. Abramowitz, UCSJ President. Numerous groups in Russia, including one of Russia's foremost reform Duma leaders, Galina Starovoitova, recently assassinated for her democratic, human rights, pro-Jewish stance, joined UCSJ in condemning statements and questioned the Communist party's role in a democratic Russia.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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December 18,1998
Child Saying Institute volunteer recruitment
Girl Scouts plan 1999 Cookie kick-off
Child Saving Institute (CSI) is presently recruiting volunteers for four programs: Mama & Me, Parent Assistance Line, Children's Crisis Center I Kids' Cottage, and Just Me and You. Needed are individuals willing to dedicate their time and energy to the often challenging, but ultimately rewarding, work of assisting children and families in need. Volunteers in each program receive 15 hours of mandatory training prior to being placed in a program. The next training series is: Jan. 23, 9 a.m.3:30 p.m.; Jan. 26 and 28, 6-9 p.m., and either Feb. 2 or 4,6-9 p.m. Volunteers must complete all 15 hours of training, and all sessions are held at CSI, 46th and Dodge St. , If interested, contact Anne Barker at Child Saving Institute* 553-6000, ext. 129, no later than Friday, Jan. 8.
Great Plains Girl Scout Council, Nishnabotna Girl Scout .Council and Homestead Girl Scout Council will kick off the annual Girl Scout Cookie Sale on Jan. 7 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m! at the Omaha Children's Museum, 500 South 20th St., in downtown Omaha. The event will feature cookie stacking contests between area celebrities, the introduction of a new cookie variety, a chance to vote for your favorite cookie, tours of the museum, storytellers and live penguins. Omaha-based Great Plains Girl Scout Council and the Council Bluffs-based Nishnabotna Council's door-to-door cookie sales are Jan. 8-25. Homestead Council, based out of Lincoln, will hold its door-to-door cookie sale from Jan. 9-18. Delivery will begin late February through mid March. Booth sales will begin in late March and continue through mid April. All net proceeds stay within the Councils to help fund program activities and further the Girl Scout Mission.
YES/Oldtimers Review
by Art Grossman
Perchance if our readers sauntered by the J's day life will go berserk unless there is a remedy lounge on Nov. 30, they encountered sounds of that they will not roll back to the year 1900. thunder crashing emanating from within. No, it Crime in Omaha was also a hot topic. wasn't a natural phenomenon-it was the Early At the lunch with our regular benshen menshen Bird discussion group wrestling with 'should the absent, this reporter chanted the prayer and Toni President be impeached.' . Kutcher recited the translation. Our guest speaker With Congress bitterly divided on Clinton's was Rainbow (her real name) Rowell, the comely • behavior, how could we not expect those within columnist for the World-Herald, who related anecour group to differ as to whether articles of dotes about her life as a writer. impeachment'should go forward. Good this was not We stood in memory for Howard I. Raznick, the week for blood pressure readings. Judy (Aizenberg) Lerner and Irv Chesen. Also at the Early Bird, Norm Zevits struck a Welcomed guests were Ruth Klein, Burt chord with Y2K, shorthand for the year 2000. • Gottlieb (Barb Gottlieb's father) and Irma Pierce. Computers that now seem to rule so much of every- Shalom
CALL THE HANDYMAN!
Rabbi Josh Zweiback has recently been hired as the adult educator at Beth Am Synagogue in Los Altos Hills, CA, and, as a first for a Reform synagogue, he will focus solely on teaching adults. Raised in Omaha, Zweiback founded Kavod, a non-profit collective that distributes tzedakah funds to those in need. .Now executive director of the Omaha-based program, he has been responsible for the distribution of over $60,000 in donations. He also is a guitar player for the band Mah T.ovu, a group that performs original Jewish music at occasional festivals. He writes music for the band and will travel with the group to Nottingham, England, for a show this month. Rabbi Zweiback is the son of Hermene and Speedy Zweiback. Amy Willensky, a senior at Millard North High School, was recently named a commended student by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for her performance on the PSAT last fall. She is the daughter of Andi and David Willensky. Members of the cast of Princess Diana, The Musical, will give a performance Sunday, Dec. 20, from 1-3 p.m. The event/free and open to the public, will be held at the Mega Mart in the Nebraska Furniture Mart. Selections from the charity benefit held last Septefhber will be presented by the stars of the . musical, including composer-lyricist Karen Sokolof Javitch and LisaLind, who portrayed Diana in the production.
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Organizations
USY wins 3 Awards _ by Holly Friedman, USY Adviser _
Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. English as a second language for hew AmericariB starts at 10 am.; bingo starts at 10:30. Come enjoy exercise class'with Sharon Lewis at 10:30 in the adult lounge. Bring articles to share for the "YES Talk" discussion group at 11 a.m. Following a hot kosher lunch at noon, Dr. Marshall Jacobs, a Chiropractor, will talk about stress management. For transportation, call 3304272.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 7
Nebraska Jewish Historical Society receives exhibition catalog by Barbara Bresler, Archivist
The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society has recently received Facing the New World: Jewish Portraits in Colonial and Federal America. The exhibition catalog, published in 1997 by the Jewish Museum, features 87 portraits and scholarly essays relating to portraits of early American Jews. In conjunction with this, they have sent a letter of inquiry asking us to help them identify and locate portraits of early American Jews that may' be in private collections. Please notify me or Robyn at NJHS, 334-6442, if you know of any portraits of American Jews painted before 1860 in local collections.
WALK-IN, DROP-IN
Members will meet Thursday atthe JCC. English Class starts at 10 a.m.; exercise at 10:15; bingo starts at 10:30. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:30. At noon, come enjoy the A&E biography on Steven Spielberg in room 10. For transportation, call 330-4272.
Bible Quiz winners announced
BREADBREAKERS . David Kotok, a political writer for the Omaha World-Herald, will speak at Breadbreakers on Wednesday, according to Ron Gordon. Breadbreakers meets every Wednesday at noon .at Highland Country Club. Cost is" $7.75 and the program is open to the community. AMIT KALAH FRANKLJN HATTKVAH CHAPTER
Hanukkah luncheon at Beth Israel Synagogue will be held Sunday, Dec. 20 at 12:30 p.m. A dairy lunch will be served and a surprise dessert is planned. • The event will be highlighted with a program by Rabbi Howard Kutner and Donald Gerber, along with the-Beth Israel Talmud Torah students directed by teacher Judi Thai.
Leah Raful, Morgon Solomon and Michael Fineman, pictured with the USY mascot, Woody Woodpecker, at opening ceremonies. Beth El Synagogue USY was the recipient of three awards at the recent KINNUS convention, held over Thanksgiving weekend in St. Louis, MO. Each member who attended was required to complete a creative arts project centered around the theme of the convention, "That Was Then, This Is Now, 50 Years of...." Three members of USY won a first-place award for the project they completed: Adam Rich, first in the drawing category; Talya Greenspoon, first in poetry; and Mendel Kurland, first in photography.
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Winners of the 13th Annual Edward Zorinsky, B'nai B'rith Bible Quiz Contest, sponsored by Henry Monsky Lodge B'nai'B'rith, we're recently... announced. Pictured above, front, is Noah Priluck, first-place winner. With him are Rabbi Ira Flax, Cantor Emil Berkovits and Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. The other winners, not pictured, are David Pitlor, second; Adam Rich, third; and Brandon Rich, fourth.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 18,1998
Annual Christmas party held for visually-handicapped children
Back row, from left: Alan Wolf son, Gary Javitch, Bernice Wolfson, Mark Javitch, Larry Radloff, Brian Joseph, Soralee Colin, Rachel Javitch and Phil Sokolof. Front row: Students Robert Scott and Cassie Mitchell. . The 38th annual Christmas party for visually-impaired children was held Dec. 6 at Westroads Shopping Mall. More than 100 children participated. The Nebraska Foundation for the Visually Handicapped sponsored the . annual event, known as the Ruth Sokolof Christmas party, in honor of Mrs. Sokolof, who organized the original party in 1961. She was an active participant until her death in 1982. H.Mrs. Sokolof founded the J.P. Lord School for visually impaired children. Each participant received $100 in gift certificates and cash, contributed by the Phil and Ruth Sokolof Charitable Foundation. The children
went on individual shopping sprees with high-school volunteers, who accompanied them through the mall while buying Christmas gifts. Donna Hultman, Director of the Omaha School District's Visually Impaired Program, was in charge^of the party. Karen Javitch, Mrs. Sokolof s daughter, who also taught blind children in the Omaha School District, is , a member of the board and an active participant in the event. Mrs. Sokolofs-grandchildren, Mark Javitch, 18, and Rachel Javitch, 14, are the third generation carrying on the tradition by escorting the young shoppers.
"Before I had the opportunity to go on the mission to Minsk and Israel in January, 1998,1 knew that it was going to be special, but 1 had no idea that it was going to have the impact on me-that it did. To go into the former Soviet Union and actually see individualspeople, real people-was an extremely important thing to do?,BobKutty ,
Hanukkah Theatre a bright light by Joarile Jacobson
_^____
The spirit of Hanukkah was as Catherine Demes, Wendy Larsonbright as the lights on the menorah Cooper and Maxine Burton. "We're excited every year to offer an as over 350 adults and children excellent Jewish proattended the gram to the commu"Hanukkah Theanity," said Bethtre," presented by Cohen, Youth the Jewish Com-~ Services Director. munity Center last "The kids love being Sunday. in it and it's also a The program feagreat self-esteem tured almost 100 boost for them," she boys and girls, added. Jewish and nonJewish, who sang, Leslie Schnabel acted and danced in Wallace, JCC dance an hour-long funfest director, explained, sponsored by the "We try to offer as JCC Dance, Theatre many performing and Youth Services Children from the choirs of Temple opportunities as posdepartments, and Israel and Beth El Sang together. s i b l e . We've been made possible through the support of rehearsing for the Hanukkah Theatre the Morton A. Richards Cultural for five weeks, all in class time, and Fund and the Nebraska Arts Council. knowing there'll be an audience "It was an exciting afternoon," said inspired the girls to work even hardGloriann Levy, Jewish Cultural Arts er. I was very proud of the results." , A dessert reception and live music Director and program coordinator. "It brought everypne together for a by "Inspirations" (Anna Yuz- . real 'community-wide' celebration of Mosenkis and Lev Shekhtman) followed the performance. Hanukkah." Marcia Lipsman, Theatre Other comments from performers Committee chairman, said, "It was and audience members included: the kids . . . I loved seeing all those JENNIFER COOPER: I liked being children up on that stage. It was ter- in the Hanukkah Theatre because it's rific!" another way to keep our Jewish tradi- ' The afternoon got off to a great tion going. MITCHELL SANFORD: I got to start as Rita Paskovitz, serving as the delightful and zany Mistress of know more about the story of Ceremonies, introduced the Youth Hanukkah, and it was fun! Chorus from Beth El Synagogue and JODI LEVlNE: It was exciting. the Temple Tones from Temple Israel Even though some parts of the dance in their first joint performance. The were difficult, it was fun. choirs sang a medley of six ELI FREUND: I liked going to,, Hanukkah songs, familiar and new, rehearsal and doing the different underjihe. direction of Cantors Emil parts and performing in a Jewish ;Berkoyits and Jennifer Blum. place. Four playlets, written and directed BEN FLAX: I liked "Kindle the by Michele Phillips, conveyed not Candle" 'cause I got to be the candleonly the story of Hanukkah but the maker. ••...• true meaning of the holiday. DEBRA FLAX: I liked being the "Working with this group was narrator and talking to the audience. incredibly heartwarming," Ms. It's good to have something like the Phillips commented. "They were so Hanukkah Theatre because it's good kind to each other, so polite and such for kids to have fun and it's fun to be_ good listeners. It was amazing to see in the audience! • , •V/ ' the older and more focused kids step VICKI FLAX: Performing in the in to help the younger ones. They Hanukkah Theatre allowed my chilwere all'very respectful young peo- dren to be part of a Jewish experience ple." and meet new children. "In this case, it was far more impor-. DORY MAWYER: Kids who were tant for the performance to have spir- not Jewish helped celebrate the it than polish. The goal was never to Jewish holiday and learned about our be perfect; it was to have fun." customs. In a community as small as Four dances were also featured, ours, it's so good to learn about each one on point, two ballet and one other in a warm and creative environ- : . jazz number. Choreographers were ment.
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December 18,1998 Rediscover Ben Hecht by Florince Whyte Kovan by Oliver B. Pollak
Technion satellite launch a success
Ben Hecht (1894-1964) was an American writer who moved from New York to Wisconsin and then to Chicago where he became a reporter for the Chicago Journal, the Chicago Daily News, and founded Chicago Literary Times, before he moved to Hollywood. He wrote 25 books and about 250 short stories, 20 plays arid 80 screenplays for the silent and sound movies. He won Academy Award Oscars in 1928 and 1935. Kovan makes two contributions to our knowledge about Hecht. First, she shows Heches talent as a publicist by reproducing 14 of his more than 400 early 1920's newspaper stories appearing in his column, "1001 Afternoons." These vignetteB of the • silent film industry include the amusing Mishkin stories. The second contribution is the structure and presentation of the book This is an art book. Kovan used mauve, sage, pumpkin, and other visually engaging colored paper. The illustrations have a collage or installation like quality employing color New York, N.Y.-The Gurwin II TechSat, a xerography, printing on eight-column accounting microsatellite developed at the Technion-Israel sheets, andfilmytransparencies. . Kovan has been working on Hecht for 10 years Institute of Technology, was successfully launched during the summer. With all systems "go," it is and reveals her passion for the subject. This book is a collector's, item and is available at now orbiting around the earth every 116 minutes. A dedicated site that has been established on the the Jewish Federation Library. internet will offer real-time viewing of the satel-. lite's path and of the images it relays. Celebrating Hanukkah A command center has been set up at the Asher in the Ukraine Space Research Institute at the Technion. The 106pound microsatellite is considered the least expensive and smallest of its kind, with the lowest power consumption, less than 10 watts. It is packed with equipment to test materials and determine the ozone content of the atmosphere. The Gurwin II TechSat represents a major advance in Israel's place in the $12 trillion global communications market. The ability to develop cheaper, smaller microsatellites with multiple capabilities is crucial for success in this highly competitive market. The satellite1 was designed and built mostly by Technion students and Russian emigre scientists. It is the second Technion satellite named for Joseph Gurwin, a Long Island, N.Y., philanthropist who is the major U.S. funder. Located at http://techsat.internet-zahav.net, In the former Soviet Union, Tzivos Hashem, the dedicated site will feature a graphic simulation an arm of Chabad Lubavitch, runs youth activities, Passover and summer camps, that charts the satellite's real-time path and conyouth clubs, orphanages and a medical clinic. tinually displays updated images of Israel and the Above, Alina Cherbriyitz, left, shows Yula Middle East. A VRML interactive model of the Choknova and Masha Natapova how the satellite will allow users to navigate it. Results of Hanukkiyah is lit in a pre-Hahukkah celebra- seven on-board experiments will be summarized tion at Tsivos Hashem's Home for Girls in arid aflashingbanner will signal newfindings.The Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine. Said Rabbi Benjy site can also be accessed through the home page of Brackman, Director of Tsivos Hashem in the the American Technion Society Web site at FSU, "The festival of light has added signifi- www.ats.org. The Technion team has already started work cance for these children whose childhood has on'a new satellite scheduled to be launched in been so dark." three to four years.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 18,1998
Community celebrates groundbreaking READERS...
(Continued from page 1)
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571-9936; Rabbi Myer S. Kripke delivered the D'var Torah. The new Federation Library will be dedicated to him and his wife, Dorothy.
Steve Nogg, left, co-chairman of the Building Project, along with his wife, Patty, and Steve and Marcia Pitlor, thanks Phil Sokolof, right, for his donation, the largest ever by a single contributor.
EXPERT PICTURE FRAMING
After- singing two songs, children of the Child Development Center, led by Linda Novak, left, presented a thank you banner with the hand prints of all the children to Federation President Howard Kooper; past-president Tom Fellman; and Building Project coohairmen Steve Pitlor and Patty Nogg.
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by Bert Lewis
One of those things which happen to us when we're minding our own business happened to me not long ago, and as. a result, I was confined to the house for a couple of weeks. I didn't feel well enough to concentrate on read• ing, so the television had to be my diversion and entertainment. I found, while doodling around with. the remote, a channel which I assume had recently been added to our line-up. It's called the Food Network, and while my TV company doesn't need any free advertising, I must tell you this channel became my best friend for hours at a time. There are cooking shows all day and all eveningone after the other. Now I realize that wouldn't appeal to everybody, but I'm easily amused when the subject is food. Each program featured a different chef, each of whom considers him/herself to be the best on the planet. Each cooks two or three different dishes per program, some of them of interest, others not very noteworthy. But I watched them all, just in case I saw something I really needed to know! Let's face it, I've only been at this for a half century plus. . .there's always somethng to learn. Because the timing was pre-Thanksgiving, most shows featured a lot of turkey, in addition to the usual side dishes, but one that several different cooks demonstrated was a shockingly different method of cooking the holiday bird. Are you ready? It was deep fried, in a huge cauldron filled with heaven only knows how many gallons of hot oil. Yes, you heard right.. ..deep fried. •I guess it's what you might call the Designer Method for this decade, but personally, while I watched with interest; I was a little repelled by the idea. Of course I don't deep fry anything anymore, never mind an entire big turkey. Be that as it may, it's this seasons popular idea and since this is a free country, those who want to do that can do so gezunderheit. That was only one of the eye-openers to get my attention. . Another was one of the country's most famous chefs (and restaurant owners) idea of stuffing, to go
with the bird. He didn't actually stuff the turkey, but instead did a casserole version, which contained ingredients that amazed me. I can't remember all of them, but even though he started with bread crumbs he finished with very odd foods. . .sweet in nature, then moistened with maple syrup. When it was all baked, he sprinkled the top with-powdered sugar. Honestly, Fin not making that up, although if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe it either. For the most part, I love watching all these people, even though most of the stuff they cook isn't what I would normally cook in my kitchen. Sometimes they get on my nerves and I wish I could suggest something to them, like when some of them pour a bowl full of batter into a pan, and leave too much still in the bowl. I want to yell "scrape out the rest of it!", and often do, but of course nobody hears me. . I would also like to tell some of them they're using way too much salt, but of course that comes from my very light hand when I salt! That's years of habit on my part~easy-oh-the-salt. I often wish I could tell them they're using too many bay leaves (I personally don't like bay leaves) or I'd like to tell them to go easy on the oil in that pan. . .half as much would be plenty. Again, that comes from my own habits in my kitchen. My late mother had access to that Food Network in her last years and we often watched together. I remember how she observed with interest various meal preparations, and I'll always remember the occasional remark, as only Mary Wine could critique. A dramatic Teh!" was not unusual, nor was her disapproval of the use of a particular seasoning, she didn't care for. She always approved of the generous use of onion and garlic we would see, being a cook who knew how to get a tarn, in her food. Well, that's my story on how to amuse yourself when you're confined to the couch and need distraction. The only problem is, watching all that often made me hungry. ... ' Near as I can recall, that was the only downside!
December 18,1998 '
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Pageli
Community delebrates groundbreaking (Continued from page 10)
The children couldn't resist the pile of dirt brought inside for the groundbreaking. Planned weeks ago for the JCC Gallery, the weather was the warmest on record; the mild conditions will allow site preparation to proceed.
Patty Nogg, center, Building Project Co-chairman and Judaic Music Teacher for the Child Development Center, led the children in a rousing Shabbat song.
Getting ready to dig for the future of Omaha are Mark Sanford, left, Howard Kooper, Steve Pitlor, Phil Sokolof, Rabbi Myer Kripke, Marcia Pitlor, Tom Fellman and Patty Nogg.
HAVEN'T YOU BEEN LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO TOW YOUR YACHT.
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Put a computer on your gift list Wishing you a Happy Holiday Cantor Emil Berkovits and Nancy Rips share their excitement over the new era for the Omaha Jewish community.
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Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 18,1998
,
Omahans get a first-hand education in Moscow (Continued front page 1) "The sights are wonderful," he said, "but the peo-. pie are what made the trip so special. . "I thought they'd keep to themselves, but they were very friendly. The young people, waiters at the restaurants, all talked to us about how they make do with very little and under extraordinary circumstances." While visiting one of the day schools now operating publicly and openly in a country that only a decade ago refused permission for the study of Hebrew, the group noted the passion of the students and teachers. "The Jewish activity is not underground anymore," said Belgrade. "It's open and they're not quiet about it!" All is not rosy, however. For many parents, enrolling a child in a day school creates its own hardships. Some single parents are often forced to leave their children at the school overnight as they live too far to get them after work. And Russia's current economic and political situation portend an uneaBy future. Nearly 40% of Russia's army is suffering from malnutrition and the government has not paid many of its troops in months. The ruble has fallen drastically on world markets and both floods and famine have destroyed much of Russia's wheat and potato crops. One of Russia's outspoken political leaders, Galina Starovoitova was assassinated last month. Some political experts attribute her murder to her alignment with pro-democracy groups and the Jewish community. Though Boris Yeltsin did speak out against her murder, few other members of the Duma (Russia's parliamentary body), added their voices to the protest. -; "I think we'd better get these people out as quickHy as possible," noted Lee Schneiderman. "The economic situation is so shaky; that whole are of the world could explode." Russia still sits on more than 2000 nuclear missiles, and though the United States did institute a "buy back" program after the fall of the communist
A day school child stays overnight at school while her mother, a single parent, works the nightshift.
The Omaha mission was one of the first to visit Moscow's newest synagogue: Jan Perelman, left, Mort and Jan Glass and Jan and Les Schneiderman.
government, there may not be enough dollars or time available to purchase all the potentially lethal weapons. Many political experts fear that, if these fall into the wrong hands, missile components will wind up as terrorist tools. According to some American officials, "every effort is being made to bring former Soviet scientists to Western countries, lest their talents and expertise be purchased by unfriendly governments." In the meantime, funds from the annual UJA/Federation Campaign are being used to bolster the Jewish communities in Russia and other states of the FSU. Programs like the hot lunch, day schools, home visitors, and the monthly 'food basket' allotment are trying to keep pace with the needs of the both the elderly and those families with young children. And immigration to Israel continues. Though the pace has slowed from the high numbers of the early 1990s to "only" 60,000 annually, families, like one visited by the Omaha mission, are sending their children, one-by-one, to Israel, with hopes of joining them later. "There but for the grace of God," Glass observed. "Meeting people in their own environment - touching, seeing, feeling - it's different than just watch- . ing the news. It affects your heart."
This 92-year-old doctor tells> the story of his life as an army surgeon, under the watchful gaze of his portrait as a young soldier. On his bookshelf rests an early 19th-century photo of the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City. (more photos on page 13)
CETTHE SCOOP ON JEWISH OMAHA AT UEWISHOMAHAORG!
Join all your friends
December 24th 9 pm-12 midnight at Big John's
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On the Menorah, the 9th candle kindles the other 8 flames. Without it, there would be no Chanukah celebration. Today, you can be the 9th candle who creates a new Chanukah miracle. But, instead of making one day's oil supply last for eight days, by giving to the Jewish National Fund, you'll be helping make Israel's water supply last forever!
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Without your help, Israel won't have enough water to sustain its population within 15 years. It must:
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•Enhance its water harvesting techniques-already the most efficient in the world • Build more dian a dozen new reservoirs • Clean up polluted rivers and streams • Recycle mote water for use in agriculture and industry • It will be a miracle if we actually accomplish all of this in time; But miracles are what Israel, Chanukah, JNF and you are all about.
Together, We Can! Give to JNF today. Be the 9th candle that makes the miracle possible.
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• take in some tunes from the jukebox Admission is free. All you pay for are your food, games & drinks! For more information, call Lisa Shkolnick, 334-6404.
December 18,1998
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 13
Omahans get first-hand education (Continued from page 12) Right: A view of St. Basil's Cathedral contrasts with the lives of Muscovites. Legend has it that the architect was blinded by the czar upon completion of the cathedral so he would never again design such a beatiful building. Mission p a r t i c i p a n t s also visited t h e Kremlin Museum, r e s p o i t o r y of t h e hand-beaded gowns, jewel-encrusted crowns, gilt-leaf carriages and Fabrege eggs owned by the Romanov family. One participant remarked, "It's no wonder the people revolted!" • . : • . . ' . • : ••. : ..; .•:V . • . . Lower right: J a n Schneiderman observes day school children at their computers. >
Les S c h n e i d e r m a n , left, v i s i t s a family who h a s already sent their 15-year-old daughter, to Israel. They remain in Moscow with their two sons, living in three small rooms, until they can make aliyah.
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Page 14
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 18,1998
NIKOLIC/FALK Beverly and Dan Nikolic of Santa Monica, CA, , n n o u n c e ^ g etlgage. ment of their daughj t e r , Cecilia, to J a y i Falk, son of Frances and Harold Falk of I Houston. Ms. Nikolic is an eleI mentary school teacher at Carlthorp School I in Santa Monica. She received a degree in | political science and multiple subject teaching credentials from California State University at Northridge. Mr. Falk is employed as a writer's assistant on the ABC production of "Dharma & Gregg." He received a degree in the School of Communications from the University of Texas at Austin. His field has been in network television production. He is the grandson of Helen and Bernie Diamond of Houston, formerly of Omaha. A J u n e wedding is planned in Pacific Palisades.CA. • SCHRIER/FOLSOM Felicia and Stan Schrier announce.the engagement of their daughter, Jill Robin, to James L. Folsoni, son of W.J. Folsom of Lincoln and the late Betty Folsom. . • . • •';'. Ms. Schrier is employed in the family business, Schrier Ford/Mazda. She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in finance from California State University-Long Beach. She is the granddaughter of Dorothy Schrier and the late Morris Schrigr,and the late Bose and David .Friedman. '.-, Mr-. Folsoni is area Vice-president for Inacom Information Systems. He has a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. A may wedding is planned at Temple Israel.
Creatively prepared dishes that celebrate the season's bounty and the rich diversity of American cuisine. 10220 Regency Circle 399-9000
by Pam Monsky Federation Communications Director
Young Jewish Omaha and Jewish Family Service have joined forces with Kansas City and Denver to put together a ski trip for young Jewish singles. The event is planned for April 15-18, at the Vail Cascade Hotel and Club in Vail, Colqrado. An informational happy hour will be held Monday, Dec. 28, 5:30 p.m., at the Upstream Brewing Company, 514 South 11th St. For more information, please contact Sharon Kirshenbaum, YJO Director, at 334 6485; or Todd Ephriam, Jewish Family Service Director, at 3346492.
Bethsaida project to co-host showings of Prince of Egypt
,f-v-7^•* ^ The University of Nebraska at Omaha's Bethsaida Excavations Project will co-host two exclusive showings of Steven Spielberg's first full-length animated feature film Prince of Egypt at the AMC Oak View 24 Theaters. The first showing is Friday, Dec. 18 at 3 p.m.; second showing is Saturday, Dec. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $10 and includes showing of the film, a reception of Middle Eastern cuisine, •drawings, games and Egyptian and Biblical artwork. A portion of the admission will fund the participation of students from the Omaha area to the archeological excavations in Israel.
Photos by Howard Marcus Adviser Linda Novak recently planned a party for members of Yachad. Top photo, standing, from left: Jill Solomon, Josh Parsow, Linda Novak, Georgianne Steinberg, Rabbi Allan Gonsher, volunteer Hannah' Wolfe and Lisa Solomon; seated: Benji Friedman, Jeff Steinberg, Ron Giventer and Elaine Marcus; bottom left: Lisa Solomon and Charlotte Luefschuetz share a fun moment; bottom right: Joan Marcus prepared more than 100 latkes for the party.
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December 18,1998
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 15
The signature dish of Hanukkah, latkes hit the big time by Linda Morel'
NEW YORK (JTA) -- Potato latkes are Hanukkah's signature dish, not because of the potato — but because of the oil. Potatoes did not exist in the Holy Land when the ancient Israelites triumphed over the Syrians. During what may have been the region's first oil crisis, a 24-hour supply of oil lasted eight days. For that reason, oil is the heart of Hanukkah, and any food fried in oil, no matter how sweet, is a fitting tribute for the celebration. While there is evidence that the custom of making latkes from potatoes originated in Russia, innovative Jewish cooks have extended the repertoire • for centuries.' Adding sugar to late-harvest produce, they've created sensational desserts. ' The Viennese, the dessert mavens of the world, were not content to leave latkes in skillets. Elevating them to creamy crepes layered with applesauce, they concocted a torte as elegant as . Vienna, a perfect finale to dairy meals. Like carrot cakes, carrot latkes have hit the dessert circuit, too. Infused with vanilla and almonds, they are dusted with confectioners' sugar. If they cool; they're irresistible at room temperature too. Inspired by seasonal fruit, cranberry latkes are an American contribution to Hanukkah cuisine. With orange juice and raisins playing counterpoint to tart berries, they burst with piquant flavor. Lacking razzle-dazzle, it's time starchy potato pancakes stepped aside. Sizzled in oil, snazzy dessert latkes are both trend-setting and traditional.
- Pour batter from first bowl into frying pan, spreading evenly. Brown lightly. Turn crepe, browning on other side. Move crepe to springform pan. Coat with applesauce. Sprinkle with walnuts. OPEN for dining CHRISTMAS EVE Repeat steps 6-9, layering eight crepes. Call lor reservations Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees,.until heated 330-3320 through. Take from oven, place on plate, and 12129 W. ConlorRcJ. (In Westwood Plaza) remove sides. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. Cut into 10 wedges. CARROT LATKES 4 large carrots, grated ' 1/2 cup blanched almonds, finely grated 2 eggs 1/2 cup flour 1/2 tsp. vanilla 3 Tbsp. sugar Corn oil Confectioners' sugar' In large bowl, mix carrots, almonds, eggs,, flour, vanilla and sugar. On medium flame, heat oil in 2 large skillets, adding as needed. By scant tablespoons, drop batter in skillet, flattening with spoon. Turn when golden, repeating until both sides P brown, about 12 minutes. Don't undercook. Drain on paper towels. Dust with confectioners'"" sugar. Yield 24.
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;'! CRANBERRY LATKES 12-ounce bag cranberries 1/2 box golden raisins VIENNESE LAYER LATKES 1/2 cup orange juice loUeilte^Uteddea^ood, ietect itecki, & 2 16-ounce jars applesauce 2 cups sugar OHe-o^-a-AUid 4H&U4 ite*H4.abound.11'' >'•'• \ 1 cup flour 1/2 tsp. cinnamon Ptemiet ieioice * £^deniioe uUtta UU and fall Lcfi. ' 2 eggs 1/4 tsp. nutmeg Corn oil 1/4 tsp. ground cloves PARTY ROOM ALSO AVAILABIJE Whipped cream or non-dairy 1/4 cup brown sugar 1217 Howard St. • 342-9800 4 whipped topping 6eggs (Please call (or hours and reservations) In large pot, simmer cranberries in 314 cup water,* 2 cups small-curd cottage cheese until they pop. Add raisins, juice and sugar, mixing 1/4 cup sweet butter, melted; plus 4 pats' well. Boil until mixture thickens, about IS minutes. 6Tbsp. flour ,. Let cool. l/4tsp.salt Add flour and eggs, mixing with large spoon. 1 tsp. sugar In two skillets, heat.oil on low flame. Drop batter 1/2 tsp. vanilla by tablespoons into skillets, flattening with spoon. Stick-free cooking spray Turn when golden. As latkes can burn, turn often 1 cup walnuts, finely ground until both sides are light brown yet soft (about 20 CAFfe A DELI Serving Breakfast.Lunch & Dinner Confectioners' sugar Combine applesauce, spices and brown sugar inminutes). Drain on paper towels. Tues-Thurs: 6 a m.-9 p.m ; Fri-6 a m.-10p.m. saucepan. Boil over medium heat, stirring often. Serve with whipped topping. Yield 36. Sat &.Sun-/:3Q.a,m.-10 p.m. Let cool. In large bowl, place eggs, beating until 750 N. 120th St, ; W^teri> grossing Plaza foamy. Add cheese, quarter-cup butter, flour, salt, (Across from Menard's)-', 496-9955 sugar and vanilla, beating well. Divide batter into eight bowls. ] '. Coat an eight-inch, non-stick frying pan and an eight-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Place frying pan on medium flame, melting halfpat of butter.
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Page 16
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
December 18,1908
Omaha debut of Svetlana Portnyanskaya Svetlana Portnyanskaya will perform at the Theatre at the 'J' on Sunday, Jan. 17, at 2 p.m. -This Russian-born superstar's repertoire includes songs in Yiddish, Hebrew, English, American Pop and opera. The Heritage Southwest Jewish Press said of her performance, "When she struck her first Jewish note, this gem of the Jewish people began setting off magical sparks that zig-zagged through the audience like a runaway flashlight." She scored a knockout in 1990 in the the Soviet Union's Festival, of Pop and Rock Music, wowing non-Jewish judges with an unprecedented program of Hebrew and Yiddish music. Her first recording sold out in mere weeks. In 1991, Svetlana and a group of Soviet musicians flew to New York for a series of concerts. She had only been in the United States for several weeks when friends implored her not to return and to start a new and safer life in this country. As a virtual unknown here arid with the necessity to earn a living, she took up formal cantorial training and is at present the Cantor at Temple Beth Torah in Woodland Hills, CA. This performance is sponsored by the J e w i s h . Cultural Arts Council, the New American Cultural' Society and the Theatre at the'J.' Tickets are $10 for general admission and $8 for seniors anistudents. Call member services, 334-6425.
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FBI sponsors Holocaust program for annual anti-prejudice meeting
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A succession of field offices around the country has hosted a poster exhibit created and distributed CipaCTHUX IIOKAOIIIIHKOB My3bIKIl. PoAHTeAII C by the Anti-Defamation League. Entitled "The Holocaust: 1933 - 1945," the exhibit was part of an AercTBa BOAHAH CBOIO AO«H> Ha ypoKH My3biKH, annual prejudice awareness program sponsored by rAe npenoAaBaTeAH Macro 6 U A H HeAOBOAbHH the Omaha Division of the Federal Bureau of yHeiumefi 3a ee crpeMAeHiie,« COGCTBCHHOH Investigation last week. HHTepnperauHii iipon3BCAeiin«, BMecro TOIO, Special Agent in Charge, Wayson Dunn, introHTo6bl CACAOBaTb HOTIIOMy TCKCiy KOMIIO3IITOpa. duced ADL-CRC Executive Director Bob Wolfson B 1990 roAy, "a (peciHBaAC IIOII- H poK- to the more than 150 FBI agents and employees. My3UKII B 6blBlIieM CoBCTCKOM C6lO3C, OHa "I'm thankful for the timely arrival of this exhibnpon3DCAa cpypop, OUJCAOMHB cyAcfi-iieeBpecB it," noted Dunn, noting the FBI's responsibility for upholding the laws of this country, "including civil necAuxaiiHUM B re Bpeiueiia nccemibiM rights laws." penepTyapoM Ha HAHUI H - iiBpine. FleDBbie Wolfson introduced survivor and spokesperson sanncii ce necca pacnpoAaAiict n CHiriaimwe Bea Karp by,talking of the "difficulty of describing HCACAII. the Holocaust in words. , B 1991 roAy CncTAana IIMCCIC c "One-third of all the Jewish people living at the time ipyniiofi COBCTCKIIX MysMKaiiToii npiiAeicAa u were killed during the Holocaust," Woifson said, Hbio-fiopK, HToBbi AaTb ccpmo KoimcproB. adding that one-and-a-half million children died. "If s Hepe3 iiecKOAbKO ncACAb iipeGbiBaiiiin i> CLL1A, important for us to share this history, especially with Apy3M HaHaAnyMOAjrn.ee HC BO3UpaaiarbCH B those who weren't even born at the time." Bea Karp, a survivor of the Holocaust, then told her POCCHK) H nanaTi. HOByio H 6e3onacnyio >KH3iib personal story of the "nightmare" in which both her parents were killed at Auschwitz. Also attending CoBepuueiiHO Heii3Becrnan , B were ADL board members Bob Kully, Gary Javitch, My3MKaAbiiOM MHpc AMcpiiKH, iicycipoeiniaii, and Debbi Brown, ADL Assistant Director CBeTAaiia BwpocAa B MOCKBC I> CCMBC
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FBI Special Agent in Charge Wayson. Dunn, left, introduced Bea Karp, Bob Wolfson and Bob Kully to the group of FBI agents at last week's meeting.
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