June 18, 1999

Hewish Prei

WE HIST SOCIETY 1500 R -ST

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LINCOLN. ME 63503-1651

SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR MORE THAN 75 YEARS

VoL LXXVI

No. 39 Omaha, NE

NCCJ honors community leaders

4Tammuz,5759

June 18,1999

Fitness Center nearopenin

by Joan K. Marcus "The National Conference of Community and Justice is a human relations organization dedicated to fighting bias, bigotry and racism in America," said Executive Director Jane Batt at the opening of the recent 1999 Humanitarian Awards dinner. Founded in 1927 as the National Conference of Christians and Jews, Batt noted that the organization promotes understanding and respect among all races, religions and cultures, through advocacy, conflict resolution and education, words which echoed through the speeches all evening. Chaired by Judy and Jack Baker, Mr. Baker said that "72 years ago, leaders came together against violence and exclusion. Now more than 66 communities in 35 states have the NCCJ continuing its (Continued «>n piiRe 12)

rating at NCCtPs annual dinner were: Jan Batt, Executive Director; Jerry Hoberman, NCCJ Co-chairman; and Brenda _CounciJthonoree. . _

On a tour of the new fitness center, JCC Director Jeff Aizenberg, left, points out features to Phil Sokolof, for whom the facility is named, Tom Fellman, co-chairman of the JCC Building Campaign, and Mike Collier, Campus Manager. The 20,000-square-foot facility, set to open by the beginning of August, contains a banked running track, three levels of cardlo-vascular equipment, a testing center for new users and a wjaU ©feast-facing windows. ^

LOME, honors volunteers More than 150 volunteers were honored by L.O.V.E., the League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly. Sponsored by Jewish Senior Services/Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, the event featured installation of new officers and an announcement by Fatty and Steve Nogg, outgoing co-presidents, that L.O.V.E. would present a check for $5000 to ihe Blumkin Home. The funds, raised from fundraising projects such as the Garage Sale and the annual Mother's Day Flower Sale, co-chaired by Dory Mawyer and Ellie Greenspoon, will benefit the residents of the Home. The volunteer services, provided by more than 150 members of the

Jewish community, range from cardplaying and storytelling to weekly song feste and Shabbat and holiday services in the chapel. Charlotte Slutzky Koom was honored by the organization as its Volunteer of the Year; certificates were distributed as each volunteer was called by name to be honored publicly by the group; the outgoing board was honored as well. Zoe Riekes was chairman of the event, assisted by Volunteer Coordinator Lois Wine. Grandparents'Day will be celebrated at the Home on Sunday, Aug. 29, from 1-5 pan. To volunteer, call the Home at 334-6530. ••'•}. (Continued on page 8) ~

Beth El presents awards at annual meeting by Cheryl Lerner

Left photox Rabbi Paul Drazen, left, presents the Earl Siegal Award for outstanding service to a board member to past-president Howard ' Epstein. Right: Retiring teacher Shirley Goodman was awarded a certificate of appreciation by Scott Littky, Director of BESTT, Beth El Synagogue Talmud Torah. Mike Abramson, President of Religious Growth Award; Howard Beth El Synagogue, delivered a Epstein received the Earl Siegal 'State of the Synagogue' report in Award; and Alan "Buddy" Goodman which he announced an initial gift was given the President's Award. In of $500,000 fop^he 21st Century addition, Shirley Goodman was hon.Endowment Campaign. He also ored for her many years of service as a reported on the completion of the teacher, and Blue Kipot Awards were Harold and Etta Epstein Chapel at presented to those members who reguthe Beth El Cemetery, and that G. larly attend minyan. Michael Horowitz has been hired as Outgoing board members M'Lee Associate Cantor, starting Aug. 1. Hasslinger, Susan Friedman, Margie - "Dory Mawyer chaired the recent Gutnik, Joye Wees, Sheila Polifeov, annual meeting at which volun- Gary Rifkin and Courtney Rabb were teers were honored and new board recognized for their service. " members installed. Bruce Shackman, chairman of the nominating committee, presented the Three volunteers were given speLeft photo: Charlotte Slutzky-Koom was named L.O.V-E.'s Volunteer of slate for two-year terms on the board: the Year. Right: Marlene and Hyman Sukiennik were installed as co- cial awards: Harry Weiner was (Continued on page 12) honored with the Selywn Rofiman presidents for 1999-2000.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 18^1099 The Wilderness a Blessing?

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(But who said that Biblical Judaism has the trap- 6288. : ;;:; ''^:..:j''.l-:l':-.':.:'-y'}\'"J.^:';':. pings of democracy? Theocracy is not democracy, as the two sons of Aaron found out, and many others. 'Ffuiashops'tobe ; I constantly glory in these deficiencies of Biblical Judaism, because it is so important to point out featured at camp how far Judaism has come because of the influence "Funshops," an alternative to '•workshops", will and development of ancient rabbinic Judaism.) be offered to the children at Camp Gan Israel this After all, if he said it differently, Qorah may well . have persuaded the whole people, including Moses, season by Chabad of Nebraska. A variety of specialties, including photography, rather than a discontented few, whom he led to photo developing, gymnastics, art and leatherworktheir deaths. What Qorah wanted was some answers to where ing will be presented by professionals to enhance they were going, and when. What was the point of the camping experience. With the assistance of this wilderness traveling, with no identified desti- Omaha-area photographers, artists and gymnasts, nation and no identifiable direction? Are we never ' the camp will provide hands-on experiences and to have the possibility of building a civilization, a introduce campers to exciting practical skills. This land, a nation, with agriculture and "industry* and program is in addition to daily swimming, sports, organization—and boundaries? Are we to be crafts, biking and a host of other activities. "Fun and creativity must alwayB be the foundabedouin forever? What is so wonderful, about the wilderness? Why should a whole generation die tion in Jewish education,": paid Rabbi Mendel here? Were we not promised a land of our own, we, Katzman of Chabad House; "Children will be enriched with a healthy dose of Jewish pride while not our children? I am certainly not prepared to say that the not benefiting from the best of summer camping." Camp Gan Israel, which runs from June 28 infrequent rebellions against Moses' leadership through July 9, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., will be based at were justified. But it is apparent from the text itself that the Exodus was not planned for suffi- Chabad House, 120th. & Shirley St. Transportaciently. Any military expedition must be preceded tion, as well as before and after care, is available. The camp is geared to children age 5-11. Cost for by advance scouts and intelligence agents. Surely the movement of so large a body of people should the two weeks is $175. "Experienced, warm and enthusiastic counselors have had better planning. That's really what Qorah w a B complaining about. No wonder he had will add to the flavor of the experience," Shani some following. •' ' ~ — Katzman added. "They will join us from New • ". : The quick answer to all of this is that the people York." should have had faith in God and His leadership. . To enroll your child or for more information, call But that answer Suffices only for those, not includ- Elizabeth at Chabad House, 330-1800; ing me, who take the Biblical view of a personal and fully involved God literally. The rest of us Former Omaha rabbi Jv must consider that Qorah had a point.'

FTUDAY, JUNE 25 Russian Club, 10 a.m.

MONDAY, JUNE 28 YES Program, 9:30 a.m.

Beth Israel Synagogue will honor Cantor Leo Fettman on Saturday, June 26 t at a kiddush luncheon immediately following Shabbat services, on the: occasion of the publication of his book ShoahJourney JRroni the Asftes.'He will speak about the' experience of wri ting the book. • • . - .r • : Shoah~Journey From the Ashes describes Cantor

Parashat Qorah. (Korah) It always seemed to me that Qorah got a bad deal. It is true, according to the Biblical account, that he had ambitions for himself, and that he wanted to be the leader of the people along with, or Fettman's experiences i n t h e Holocaust, a n d i s ' in place of, Moses. But in a society such as our available for purchase through t h e Beth Israel own, demands like that would lead to rejection by Synagogue' office. Illustrations were done by h i s the electorate-not necessarily execution. Execution wife, Annette.,..'..',.'.'' ; , ".'s'•,'"'.''•"'' • '•','"'".• " '•' smacks of the procedure in,1 soy, China, rather than The luncheon is open to the entire' community. a democracy.,'--

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Cantor Leo Fettman to be honored

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activist in probe in Louisiana

Rabbi Barry Weinstein was quoted recently in an article in the Aduocate of Baton. Rouge regarding the grand jury probe into financial affairs of Governor Mike Foster. The former associate rabbi at Temple Israel in the 1970s and 1980s has been active in pushing Gov. Foster to reveal why he paid former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke $152,000 for exclusive rights to Duke's supporter mailing list. "Having read Mr. Duke's autobiography and the racist propaganda, I shudder to think that my governor in any way helps him spread this hate in the state and in our country," Rabbi Weinstein was quoted as saying in the June 13 article. He has served as rabbi of Congregation B'nai Israel Synagogue in Baton Rouge for the last 13 years. It is one of only two synagogues in the state's capitol and the only Reform congregation. Foster ran for governor in 1995 and 1999. Duke's 80,000 name list apparently was purchased "at a key time" in the campaign, when Duke was researching his book, My Awakening, which reaffirms Duke's, white, supremacist views, calling for the separation of,the. races and denial that the Nazis murdered six million Jews and an additional five million others during the Holocaust.' Foster has refused to denounce Duke.: ' • "I hold the' governor .in' my prayers," Rabbi •Weinsteiri was also quoted as laying. "I regard him .; as a y e ^ ^ e ^ decent person! /',. •*.,,'. .,/,,...;..:, i '• sonaUydisturbing" ' " -" .;•...•...-.. ...... • A New Orleans federal grand jury was empowered to investigate this'transaction as part of a probe into potential criminal law violations, including tax matters involving Duke. ' : '

Jewish Press /Omaha, NE

June 18,1999

SYNAGOGUES TEMPLE ISRAEL ;.

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CANDUEUGHTING: 8:41 p.m.

BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogu wi f ^ U r d

7013 Cam Sfxvo^ ^'Qmip,

Omriut, NK 68154-1080

FRIDAY: Early worship service, &30 pan. Habbi Aryen Azriel and Jeffrey. Taxman will officiate, using the Union Prayer Book; Shabbat service, 7:30 pan. Habbi Debbie Stiel and Cantor Jennifer Blum will officiate, along with Izii Tooinsky, a master storyteller and juggler, and members of the Temple Tones. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by the families of Matthew Heyman, Bobby Newman and Julianna Scheer in honor of their Jewish scouting awards. SATURDAY: Bagels and Bible: An opportunity to learn Torah with the rabbis, 9:30-10:15 mm.; Shabbat service, 10SO aan. ' Alex Bloom will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. BITTER SERVICE Sitter Service is available Friday evening, Saturday mornings for Bagels and Bible and the worship service. Cost is $2 per family. Please make a reservation through the Temple office so we may plan accordingly. ADULT EDUCATION WEDNESDAY: Midrashah, 11-30 aon.-1230 pan. THURSDAY: Sisterhood Adult Education: Rabbi Stiel will teach "A Look at Myths, RitualB and Symbols: Their Role in All Religions and Their Role in Our Religion," 10-11:30 turn.; "Beginning Beyond Midrash, 6:50-7:40 p.m.; 'Beyond Midrash," 7:50-8:46 pan., led by Don Schwartz.

' Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. FRIDAY: Services, 9 3 0 aan. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m., followed by Kiddush; Mincha/Ma'ariv, 6:30 pan., followed by Havdalah. WEEKDAYS: Shacharit, 7 a.m.; Mincha/Ma'ariv, 7:30 pan.

49S4GB0 WEB-vrww.bethct-Owalut.org Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 am. to 4:30 pjn.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat service, 7 pan. SATURDAY: Services, 8:45 tun.; little People service, 10:15 aan..; Jr. Congregation, lftSO aan^ Kidduah sponsored by friends of Mark and Gloriann Levy on the occasion of their move from Omaha; Rabbi's class, 8:05 p.m.; Mincha, 8:35 pan., followed by Ma'ariv and Havdalah, 9:52 pan. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m.; Beis Hamedrash, 9:45 aan.; Mincha, 8:45 pan. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 <uia; Mincha, 8:45 pan. WEDNESDAY: Rabbi Kutner teaches Talmud Class at 7:45 pan. at the synagogue.

BEYT SHALOM

AaAmttBteothB AAmtttfhPrdoretlon tloyrtnh H«con»tmetlonl»t P,O. Box 241130, Omaha, NE6811M-5130 758-9233 FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7:30 pan. SATURDAY: Services, 9-^0 aan. Religious School is over for the semester. However, pre-registrations are being accepted at 758-9233. FRIDAY, June 25: Shabbat in the home.

FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 pan. Alexander Bloom, son of Becky and Brent Bloom, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. The service will be conducted by Cantor Dr. Mike Yablonski, MD. An Oneg will follow in the social hall.

Temple Israel wins Fain Award by Iris Ricks

Services conducted by Rabbi Ira Flax. Office hours: Monday-ThursdaV, 7:30 a.m.4:30 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 7 p.m., led by Nancy Rips. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., led by Andrew Greenberg. All services are followed by Kiddush. A memorial, in memory of residents who have died during the month, is held on the last sabbath of each month.

CONGREGATION 0'«A»4ESHORA^ Member of theUnlon <rf American itebrew Congregations

< *°' *. Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. FRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service^ 7:45 pan. SATURDAY: Sabbath service, 9:30 aan.; Torah s t u d y , MfcSO a a n . • • ' : ••'.••

TIFERETH ISRAEL Mrmber «f ti» t'nltpd Synagagu* ofOonarrvattv»Jud«in«i 1219 Sheridan Hlvd, JUwsdn, N £ 0BMB4KM Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan on Monday and Thursday at 7 : 1 5 a a n .

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FRIDAY: Services, 8 pan. SATURDAY: Services,9#0 aan.

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Temple Israel recently received the Irving J. Fain Social Action Award Honorable Mention from the Commission on Social Action of.Reform Judaism. Temple received the award for its program, 'Are We All Created in God's Image? Gay/Lesbian Issues and Challenges in Our Jewish Community." The program began with a panel discussion on Jewish and psychological approaches to gay and lesbian issues. Following the session, two male congregants asked the rabbi to perform a commitment ceremony. The rabbi engaged a broad cross-section of the congregation, through a special task force, to help define the issues that must be addressed. Ultimately, the board of trustees, on the recommendation of the task force, passed a resolution allowing Rabbi Azriel to exercise his own discretion. What started as a panel discussion, became a transformative process for a congregation struggling to understand and meet the needs of all members. The Fain Awards are awarded to congregations whose work in the area of social justice is exemplary. Temple Israel was commended for "its process in opening up an important dialogue within its own community concerning what it means to be inclusive."

Please Join us to celebrate the 70th Anniversary ti : Dr. Milton and Ann Margolin Sunday, June 27 1-4p.m. in the JCC auditorium Hotfrd bf thtlr chlldnn tndi ipoutn, grandchildren and 4 gn&gwHJcnihLjn

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Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 pan.; Friday, 9 aan. to 4 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY: Services, 6 p.m. Joel LeMalstre will become a Bar Mitzvah on Friday evening and Saturday morning. SATURDAY: Services, 9-30 cua; Kiddush following; Sitter service, 10 aan.; 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, fbZS p.m. (1/2 hour before M/M); Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah eer- ' vices, &55 pjn. SUNDAY: Services, 9 aan. WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 a.m. & 5:30 pan.

B'nai Inga Konfisakhar, daughter of Marina and Leo Konfisakhar, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, June 19, at Beyt Shalom Reconstructionist Synagogue. A distinguished honor. I student at Westside Middle School, she excels in art and participates in I Odyssey of the Mind ) competition. She plays the piano, trumpet and guitar. In addition, she is a member of Russian Literature Club and is actively involved in synagogue activities. - For her-mitzvah'project, Inga prepared several tutorials on the content and structure of Jewish Services and presented them at the Hebrew School. Inga has a brother, Igor. ' . Grandparents are Inessa Manevich of Omaha and the late Samuel Shpilberg and Riva Konfisakhar of New York and the late Jacob Konfisakhar. • ' • * " • ' , . „ , , — ...... •• Aleksander Dmitri'Salkin, son of Trudy and Mike Salkin. will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah On jj" "J Saturday, June 26, at v \ Beth El Synagogue. i.i A seventh grade stu'j'dent at Peter Kiewit .v( 1 Middle School, he enjoys '- '\l spending time with his y ; friends and family, reading and is an avid movie buff. V Aleksander has a brother, Nikolai. Grandparents are Janette Salkin of Omaha and the late Arthur Salkin and the late George and Lois Tobias. '/ Rebecca Ann Smedlund, daughter of Debi and Jeff Smedlund, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday^ June 26, |^ Temple Israel. A seventh grade honor I student at Millard North Middle School, she enjoys I dancing, including ballet, I tap, jazz and pointe. She I also enjoys spending lime I with friends and family | and shopping. For her mitzvah project, 1 Rebecca volunteered over | 100 hours to the Patient Education Department at Methodist Hospital. Grandparents are Esther and Bob Katleman of Omaha and Carol and Jim Smedlund of Excelsior Springs, MO. '•.••••

Great-grandparents are Sam Berman and the late Teresa Berman and the late Oscar and Minnie Katleman.

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Editorial

June 18,1099

What do we want?

The arrival of Stuart Goldman's editorial cartoon for thiB week's issue couldn't have come at a better time. Joel Alperson, Chairman of the 2000 UJC/Federation Annual Campaign, has asked professionals and volunteers to engage members of the Jewish community in a short survey about the needs of the community. While the survey is by no means scientific, the results should give the Federation leadership an insight into local needs for the immediate future. Board members from the Centers of Excellence, committee members of the Jewish Press, and other volunteer leaders and donors from the Jewish community will be interviewed. The short survey is composed of just four questions: -"•-liSJhat program or service do you believe the Omaha Jewish community should either create or improve?

•Which programs, services or products do you believe, if subsidized, would increase Jewish participation or Jewish observance in the Omaha Jewish community? (Examples might include reducing JCC or synagogue dues; reducing the cost of kosher food, tuition at Friedel Jewish Academy, or fees at the Child Development Center.) •What else should our Federation be doing to build an even more Jewishly knowledgeable and committed community? •If you could become more personally involved in any aspect of the Omaha Jewish community, what specific role would you take? If you'd like to add your two cents to this survey, please forward your written answers to Mr. Alperson by July 1 at the Jewish Federation office, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154. And thanks for taking the time to be a part of our future!

-^^M\mri

The Rebbe's tisch by Teddy Weinberger

A tisch is a "table" in Yiddish; to go to a Rebbe's tables. It's quite a sight to loo£ up from the table i. tisch is to sit at the table of a hassidic master. It is and see a quadruple-layered wall of hassidim. j.the defining ritual of. hassidic life and can be the The Rebbe enters and the room goes silent; all glue that holds hassidic sects together. those seated rise to greet the Rebbe and those The Carlin-Stolin Rebbe made aliyah from Boro- already standing tip then* heads. Park (in Brooklyn) eight years ago and moved to The tisch begins with the Rebbe reciting the GivatZe'ev a little over three years ago. They occu- motzi over two huge challot. One of the sextons py a block of three apartment houses in Givat Ze'ev then slices the bread and distributes it. The Rebbe (the rest of theBe hassidim live mainly in Jeru- looks around the room, fixes his eyes on someone, ; salem and in Brooklyn). gives, a very small nod, and the person begins to •""sing; tfie first line -of a song;'with ^everybody quickly wadi (valley) to the other side of Givat Ze'ev. joining in. • Though my house was burgled a few months ago Many of the hasBidim sing as loudly as they pos(my occasional bright-eyed, gee-whizz remarks not sibly can (the Carliners are known for their highwithstanding, there is crime in Givat Ze'ev), one volume prayer services). Some of the hassidim has little to fear in walking around Givat Ze'ev in seem to go into a trance-like state: they close their : the dark. eyes and let the music waft over them. Others i'.; A^friend of mine introduced me to the Carlin- clutch their temples while they sing-it's as if they ^ftEh;Eebbe> tisch'ioviwcd the end of 1997. Since fear that their heads will explode from the intensi"then, I have made the trip about two dozen times, ty of the singing. usually accompanied by my oldest son, Nathan. One hassid whom I like to watch always sings The main tisch is on Friday nights; there are small- passionately and shuckles (bows up and down) ferer tisches on Saturday afternoons and on holidays. vently, and as he rises his eyes seem to roll back The Friday night tisch begins approximately an into his head, revealing only their white portion. hour-and-a-half after the end of evening prayer serThe Rebbe himself does not sing; he sits with his vices. The tisch puts pressure on one's Friday night right hand upon his right temple, his face expresmeal, since, technically, it is an extension of this sionless. meal. There's no time to luxuriate around one's After a few songs, the hassidim are given a Shabbat table-one will do this at the Rebbe's. chance to touch their Rebbe. They line up, and each Women are excluded from participation in the hassid takes a plastic cup with a tiny bit of wine tisch; theoretically, they can listen in from the bal- into his left hand. cony but few exercise this option. In this respect, One by one they shake the hand of the Rebbe and critics of hassidism are right: hassidism takes the say 'Vchayim." Normally, the exchange takes just a traditional importance placed on the home and second, although occasionally someone will briefly shifts in to the Rebbe. speak to the Rebbe about a particular personal Almost all of the hassidim get to the tisch before matter. the Rebbe enters. Everyone returns to their positions, the Rebbe On particularly crowded tisches, such as the gives his nod, and the singing resumes. It stops Shabbat of Hanukkah, there are four levels from again for a small taste of dessert (apple cobbler), which the hassidim position themselves: seated plus some chickpeas if a baby boy was born to one around the long table (usually reserved for the of the hassidim in the last week. Rebbe's many sons, and some older men, plus any Then there's the grace after meals, presided over "civilians" like myself who happen to be there), by the Rebbe with a gleaming silver wine cup. The standing on the floor, standing on the benches and wine is passed around after the grace and then (for the young and fearless) standing on top of the there's the big dance of the tisch. 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 is Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. Telephone 402-334-6448; FAX 402-3345422; E-mail <yshpress@aol.com> • Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198.

UoydRotUMn Chairman Carol Katzman Editor-lrvChiot Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Lany Axelrod Advertising Manager Barbara Frenkal • Rocky Slam Sales representatives JonlnoE.Sadotsky Bookkeeper JenQatn Production Assistant George Schaplro

The Rebbe sits and pounds the table with his fist as the hassidim wind then- way around him. Some young hassidim will usually lock arms and the whole line of them will move forwards and backwards in synchrony. The dance is accompanied by one wordless niggun, a tune sung over and over again. After two or three circuits around the Rebbe, the Rebbe's fist stops moving and the hassidim immediately return to their places. After a few more songs there is another (short) dance, .. , , Suddenly, the Rebbe gets up from the table and exits. A few of the hassidim continue to .dance but the tisch is officially over and the hassidim are now expected to study Torah. I have only been at one tisch where the Rebbe has spoken. As he opened his mouth, hassidim swooped around him from all sides; they leaned way over the table (squooshing Nathan and me) and craned their ears to catch every word of the Rebbe's. He spoke in Yiddish, which I do not understand, but I waB told afterwards that it was a talk designed to encourage the older members of the community to set a good example for the younger ones. Some of my friends in Givat Ze'ev wonder at my attraction to the tisch. They know that I have modern liberal thoughts about Judaism and that I am not a mystical person. In response, what t say is that the Carliners are the only game in town. I like the idea of filling my Friday nights with song and "dance. I am caught up, too, by the passion and devotion of the hassidim. I don't feel what they feel for the Rebbe but I am convinced that they are preserving and maintaining something deeply vital in Judaism.

United Way of the Midlands It's you. It's me. It's all of us. JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Fred Tichauor, Vice-Chairman; Joanie Jacobson, Secretary; Elyce Azriel; Jill Bolmont; Steve Danon; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Gary Kudym; Steve Levinger; 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.

June 18,1999 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 5 Russian success story by Carl Alpert

Haifa-Since the aliyah from the Soviet Union began in recent years, and through the collapse of the Communist regime, close to a million persons have reached Israel from those lands, constituting some 20% of the Jewish population here. Their voting potential is said to be about 500,000, and if all of them were to have backed their own political party, they could have elected 20 members to the Knesset, forming one of the country's major parties. There was no such unity, however, and their vote was split among the veteran parties and two blocs of their own, the largest headed by Natan Sharansky. : There have been conflicting Btories about the general social and economic integration of the Russian Jews, and reliable facts ore just beginning to come to hand. The several years immediately following

arrival in the country are difficult for all immigrants, and hardship cases often make good journalistic copy. New arrivals also frequently wrote to family and friends back home, presenting a rather dismal picture of their initial adjustment. But recently published books and press reviews provide an encouraging picture, and we trust that the more recent correspondence reflects the present mood and spirit There are said to be close to a million Jews still in the FSU, and if conditions worsen there-and improve here-Israel could expect another massive wave of immigrants. • But let's look at what has happened with those already here for some time. We glean interesting bits of information from the recent reports. There are more than 50 publications in Russian, four national dailies, 11 weeklies, five monthlies and about 50 local papers. Circulation is estimated at about 250,000 on week-ends. Relatively few read To the Editor: the Hebrew press, though the number increases as There has been a great deal of gossip, conjecture, they become more familiar with the language. . rumor and misunderstanding within the Jewish The children are at school, and mastering community since a life-cycle event took place in Hebrew there. Tens of thousands of young students June. In order that the speculation might end, we of university age were absorbed into the local uniwould like to set the record straight versities and have earned their degrees there. On June 6; 1999, 22 Sivan 5759, Rabbi Aryeh They are proud of their Russian culture, music, Azriel and Cantor Jennifer Blum of Temple Israel literature, art, and tend to look down on what they officiated at the union of Michael Silvennan and consider the shallowness of Israeli culture. They his partner, David. Michael is a Temple Israel have created a network of their own cultural instimember, and our son. tutions as well as a theater, Gesher, which is uniIn front of 90 invited guests from throughout the versally recognized as among the best in Israel. Midwest and, as far away as both coasts and the What is unusual about Gesher is that it iB able to former Soviet Union, Michael and David declared present performances in either Russian or Hebrew. their love for each other, that they will always take It is probably no exaggeration to say that about care, of one another and that they have established 50% of the personnel of all of Israel's symphony and will continue to maintain a Jewish home. orchestras are today of Russian birth. These words were also inscribed in their original Unlike other waves of immigration which quickly ketubah and recited under the chuppah. Hebraized their names, most of the Russians retain In addition to those officiating, the chuppah hold- their original names, so that Miaha and Sasha and ers, the two men and their sisters, there was Boris are still identified as such. another entity under the chuppah and that, of There are TV programs in Russian, an immigrant course, was God. Everyone present bore witness program on radio, and a Russian cable channel that this union was truly blessed by the highest authority. Following the ceremony a champagne Alt thefr shots ; .mTnnniM^u^.-.iiiN.iiL'jivi.. ; As parents, we are extremely proud of our son while they're tots and son-in-law for having the courage, in the face of bigotry, hatred, ignorance and misunderstanding within our own Jewish community, to present themselves as a loving couple who intend *: "emain -together until "death do them part." We are also proud of Rabbi Azriel and Cantor Blum for having the courage of their convictions in performing thiB union and we realize that, unfortu1-800-662-1889 nately, there are some in this community who Nebiosks Health anil would rather vilify, than applaud them for that Humnn Services Syalm" courage. The 90 family members andfriendswho attended this ceremony are also to be commended because they signified their love, understanding and tolerance of human rights by participating in our celebration. American Heart i We are still aglow with all the love and warmth Association. that we witnessed on June 6. This union was intended to be a private religious ceremony, not a political statement. However, the reactions that we have received from this community has made it important for us, as we previously said, to set the record straight. . We are surprised that something so beautiful has been made to appear so scandalous and controversial by a few individuals within our Jewish community. We are and will always remain filled with pride and love for Michael and David. Susie and Jim Silvennan

with commercials which finds i t profitable to advertise automobiles, banks, mortgages, shopping centers and food products. All this does not necessarily mean that they have shut themselves up in a Russian ghetto. They take an active part in domestic politics and in the every day economy, but the retention of the Russian language is necessary for the high percentage of elderly people among them. The latter fact constitutes a problem in itself. In 1993, Russian olim comprised 12.7% of those seeking employment. In 1998, the figure was reduced to 6.9%. About 80% of the olim today occupy their own flats, thanks to advantageous mortgage plans. Of the 130,000 cars sold here in 1998, about 13,000 were bought by the olim. Many have done well enough to enable them to go back to the old country as tourists. During the peak period of immigration, 1989-1997, among the newcomers were 78,000 engineers, 16,100 physicians and dentists, 16,000 artists and writers, 36,300 teachers and 13,250 scientists. Some of them were almost immediately absorbed into the local economy where they were welcome as a blessed addition to the core of skilled manpower. Doctors were among the most difficult to absorb, and many underwent vocational retraining. The largest single center is Haifa. Location here of the Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, is believed to have been the major attraction. Tel Aviv is home to only about 35,000. Some of the smaller communities, however, have taken on a Russian coloration. Maalot, in the Galilee, is today 51% Russian, Sderot 47%, Nazareth Ilit, 50% and OrAkiba40%. A piquant effect of the Russian immigration on the economy is the- employment provided to large numbers of social workers and Hebrew teachers, as well as to researchers in the social sciences, statisticians, pollsters and the like who have in recent years conducted no less than 600 social studies among them.

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Shari Hess, a teacher in the Omaha Public Schools for 28 years at Lothrop Elementary School, was named a Buffet Award Winner. The annual awards given by Warren Buffet to teachers in OPS carries with it a $10,000 award. Hess earned her bachelor's degree from Simpson College and a master's from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She will continue teaching third grade at the school. Kate Ferer was recently nominated for the 1999 Nebraska First Lady's I Outstanding Community I Service Award for h work in the Jewish community of Omaha. She has been an active member of Young Energetic Seniors and an officer, and has chaired the I Older Adults Division of | the Women's Campaign. Milwaukee - The fourth edition of Jewish Heartland, a magazine by and about Midwestern Jews, will arrive in homes, newstands and Jewish institutions in June. Jewish Heartland takes a regional approach to covering an often underreported, sometimes ignored population of nearly 700,000 Jews in 12 states*. Jewish Heartland probes the trends and issues affecting Jewish life, suggests innovative as well as tried-and-true ways to increase Jewish meaning at home, emphasizes contemporary Jewish art and culture and chronicles how Jewish communities and individuals overcome challenges. The magazine is co-published by Milwaukee-area spouses Andrew Muchin, who also is editor, and Marge Eiseman, who is business manager. Features editor is Amy Waldman. Muchin has 18 years of experience in Jewish journalism, most recently as editor of The Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle, a weekly newspaper. He is a former assistant editor of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, the worldwide Jewish news service. Subscriptions are $36 for 11 bimonthly issues. Write c/o P.O. Box 11423, Shorewood, WI 63211. For more information, call (414) 332-6248 or email: amme@execpc.com " •The Jewish heartland includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. :

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Steven and Diane Kohler announce the May 27 birth of their son, Adam Steven. Adam has a sister, Alexandra Lee, 5. Grandparents are Dftnald and Nancy Hobennan of Omaha and Ronald and Barbara Kohler of Hot Springs, AK. Great-grandmothers are Georgiana Ingram of Omaha and Dorothy Trenerry of Hot Springs. Kate (Pocras) and Lou Halperin of St. Paul, MN, announce the May 11 birth of their son, Jonathan Oliver, named in memory of his greatgrandfather, the late Oliver A. Pocras. Jonathan has a sister, Talia, 21/2. Grandparents are Joyce M. Pocras of Lincoln, Hastings and Sun Lake, AZ, and the late Richard Pocras, and Mike and Roz Halperin of Red Lion, PA. Mark and Paula Robinson announce the June 2 birth of their daughter, Ava Marie. Grandparents are Frances and Sam Fried and the late Burt Robinson and June and Charlie Jaksich.

Bobby Newman, son of Patricia and Jeff Newman, was a member of the Pacesetter baseball team for nine-year-olds which recently won first place in the Tulsa Memorial Day Tournament and became World Qualifiers. Bobby plays second base and pitched his first no-hitter during the tournament. The team returned to Omaha to win the Gladiators Tournament in early June, where Bobby pitched a shutout, one-hitter in the championship game. The Pacesetters are a select baseball team for youth, ages 9-14, sponsored by Pacesetter Corporation and founded by Harley Schrager. Two scholarships of $2500 each were awarded to Tiffany Eisenman and 2ack Gonsher by the Sidney Epstein Schol- V~"x 7 arship Fund. The fund [ • / was established by Gert [ Jt Epstein and her sonB in \ honor of the volunteer efforts in the Jewish community by the late Sidney Epstein. Two scholarships are award-1 ed annually to aid stu-1 dents in continuing their | • Jewish education at an ] approved college or uniJversity or a post-sec[ondary program. Tiffany is the daughter I of Scotland Sam EisenIman, and will study at Michlelot Esther in., Jerusalem; Zack is the son of Allan and Rini Gonsher and will be at Ner Ya'akov in Jerusalem. Debbie Goodman received her PhD:in Industrial Psychology from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln last month. She is currently"; working as a marketing research consultant for, several area businesses. Bob Goodman, 1998-99 President of the Omaha Federation of Advertising, was named President of the Year for the American Advertising Federation's Ninth District, which included 16 advertising clubs in Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas. • Friedel Jewish Academy students Ilya Poluektov, fifth grade, and Seth Rich, fourth grade, earned honorable mention certificates in the 1999 Aviation Art Contest. Sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics, Nebraska Air National Guard and other aviation interests, the contest drew 500 entries from across the state. National Jewish Medical and Research Center of Denver, CO, will host a Patient Reunion, July 31-Aug. 1, in Denver. For information, call 1-800-423-8891, ext. 1042. Sean Herstein, son of Susan (Ash) and Jeffrey Herstein, former Omahans and now in Scottsdale, AZ, has received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Jewish Studies and Near Eastern Languages and Cultures with a minor in Music from Indiana University. He is the grandson of the late Sol and Mary Ash of .Omaha and the late Sophie and Dave Herstein ofMinneapoIis. Brodkey, Cuddigan, Peebles and Kaplan, Attorneys at Law, has announced the addition of Paul J. LaPuzza to the firm.

June 18,1999 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page. 7 by Bert Lewis

YJB.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC in the Qordman Center-Friedel Jewish Academy. Exercise with Michelle Streif at 10:15 a.m. in the school. Play bingo with Eileen Reiner at 10:30 a.m. in room 4. Bring articles to share for the "YES Talk" discussion group at 11 a.m. in the Henry and Dorothy Riekes Museum. Lunch will be served in the commons area of the school. Following lunch at noon, Susanne Perry will play international music on her hammer dulcimer. Attention all you fathers: come to the luncheon and receive a Father's Day gift. For transportation, call 330-4272 WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet Thursday at the Friedel Academy. Exercise starts at 10:15 a.m. For those going on the Mystery Tour, please meet at the JCC by 10:45 a.m. For transportation, call Maggie at 334-6521. RUSSIAN CLUB Members will meet Friday, June 25. Lunch will be served in the auditorium of the Blumkin Home at 11 a.m. A day trip is planned to the Summer Arts Festival at 11:30 a.m. For reservations, call Lydia Iinde at 697-9169.

BREADBREAKERS Dr. Stephen Lemon, head of Cancer Prevention and the Hereditary Cancer RiBk Program of Methodist Hospital, will speak on "Eastern European Heritage: Who is a t Risk?" at the Breadbreakers luncheon. The weekly luncheon is Wednesday at noon at Pastime's restaurant, 129th and Maple, according to chairman Steve Riekes. Cost is $8.50. JEWISH WAR VETERANS-Post #260 An Otieg Shabbat will be held Friday, June 18, 6 p.m., at Capehart Chapel at Offutt Air Force Base, 25 Capehart Road (across from the hospital). Active and inactive veterans and their families are cordially invited. For more information, call 2946051 or 294-0117.

MAGID/DENENBERG Tiffany Leigh Magid, DVM, and Steven Miles Denenberg, MD, have announced their engagement Dr. Magid, daughter of Dr. Bernard and Carolyn Magid of Omaha, practices veterinary medicine in Omaha. She earned a B.A. in English from Vassar College in PoughkeepBie, NY, and a DVM from Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. AQ. Schimmel and Mr. and Mrs. Max Magid. Dr. Denenberg, son of Norman and Eunice Denenberg, is a practicing facial plastic surgeon in Omaha. He is a cum laude graduate of Harvard University with a B.A. in engineering and applied physics. He earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska College of Medicine. He is the grandson of the late David and Fannie Denenberg and the late Louis Newberg and Ruth Newberg Kirshenbaum. An Oct. 10 wedding is planned a t Beth El Synagogue.

HAAS/GREENBERG Lesley-Ann Haas and Howard Greenberg were married Oct. 10, 1998, at Har Sinai Temple in Trenton, NJ, by Rabbi David Straus. The bride, a native of Brooklyn, NY, is the daughter of Shirley Schiff and the late Daniel Haas. The groom, a third-generation NebraBkan, is the son of Elinor Greenberg and the late Bernard Greenberg. Lindsey Haas, daughter of the bride, acted as maid of honor and played the flute before the ceremony. Daniel Haas, son of the bride, served as usher. Mallory Haas, also daughter of the bride, was the flower girl. Lloyd and Judy Haas, brother and sister-in-law of the bride, were Chuppah holders, along with family friends, Dominic Mercadante and Marjorie Goldstein. Joel Greenberg, brother of the groom, served as best man; Karen Greenberg,' sister-in-law of the groom, was bridesmaid.-. The couple make their home in Princeton, NJ.

Are you one of those people who carefully checks because how could she use such a variety of the food coupons in the newspapers and other things. . .1 mean, those things are for cat and dog advertising? I mean the "cents off* offers, such as food, as well as cleaning supplies and food items for *50tf off when you buy one jar of whatchamacallit" humans. I see lots of coupons for stuff I haven't used in The Sunday papers are usually the best Bource, with special sections containing coupons for any- over 50 years of keeping house! And you must really buy the item or the coupon won't scan. Before thing and everything you may w a n t . . I try to check them and often cut out the ones I the scanners got so sophisticated, it was possible to think n i use. I put them in a special place in my accidentally slip one past on an item that wasn't purse, then the kick is to remember I have them purchased, but no more. Now the machine knows, before they expire. People who are conscientious so there's no cheating. Well, if I wasn't such a noodge, I wouldn't have can save more than a little change, but they can be a bother. I was behind a young woman in the check been so impatient while witnessing that whole out line the other day, and found I was torn magillah, but the truth is, I am a noodge and between feeling great admiration for her and want- things like that drive me nuts. So I find I'm watching to wring her neck. Why? You can probably ing very closely and practically timing the procedure', fuming silently to myself and wondering why guess if you are a grocery shopper. ;- She had a huge basketful of groceries in addition I didn't choose another check-out line. Then something triggers an old memory filed to a reasonably-filled basket. Fine, BO she's got a big family-fcine/ioraft, lady. The problem, however, away in my head. I can see myself at the grocery was not the large number of items to be scanned. store with my Mom, a long time ago. There's only My impatience came when I noticed the fat stack of one counter and it's the owner of the store who's coupons she handed the clerk. Without exaggera- behind it, with a pencil behind his ear. He has a tion, there must have been 50 to 60 coupons, each cash register at his finger tips and it works on the pressure of his touch, when he hits the right key. representing an item she was purchasing. Of course, each had to be separately passed over In other words, if the power fails, the register still the scanner, and that took more than a little time, works because it doesn't depend on electricity! but eventually it was done. The clerk punched her There's nothing much else on that counter, except register, which subtracted the total of the coupon each grocery item as he rings it up. There's no scanner, there are no coupons and there's no young savings, then told the customer what she owed. I looked at the woman, expecting to see her dig- •• kid bagging those groceries as they're rung up. ging into her purse for cash, but no, forget that. There's just the grocer, the groceries and us, and She had a credit card in her hand. Now we had to unless memory really fails me, we couldn't carry wait for that transaction to clear, then for her to home $10 worth of stuff in one trip (we were on sign and then, only then, was she ready to start col- foot, of course.). In those days, coupons would have been a godsend, but they didn't yet exist. lecting herself and move away from the counter. I do remember something about dishes being It took two carry-out kids to shlep her stuff to her car, but I must say, she looked calm and unruffled, given as premiums, but that Was later. If I go really. .considering the gigantic mob I assume she cooks for way back, I can remember the grocer writing down and feeds. Oh yes, besides all the food items, she the cost of each item on a brown paper sack, then had purchased a case of wine, so she appeared to be after totaling, opening the bag and placing the purplanning some kind of festivities at her house. Or chases inside. But that's a story for another time!" maybe, the way she coped with a sizable family was by enjoying that wine herself, who knows? I did wonder about her for a while. I admired her ability to collect all INTRODUCING A VEHICLE of those coupons and wondered how long she THAT WILL MAKE YOU THINK OF ROADS had been saving them, to AS JUST SUGGESTIONS. have such a great number. I also was curious

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NB

June 18,1999

L.O.^E. honors volunteers

The world I know

/(Continued from page 1)

a graduation speech by Hal G. Senal, Mlllard North High School. Class of 1999

After my first day of school freshman year, I said to my mother with tears in my eyes, "Mom, pleaae don't make me go back there again. There are so many people there. I feel so small.* Of course, I came back again, and again. Each time, I grew bigger and better as a person, not just because I grew wiser with knowledge and experience, but because this magnificent class of 1999 helped shape me to become the person I am today. Unfortunately, the time is at hand when we will have to leave all the people we have come to know, respect and even love. This will, no doubt, be difficult to do. An even harder task to accomplish would be to forget everyone we've known here. Correction: that would be an impossible task to accomplish. When I think of my experience at Millard North, I am reminded of author C.S. Lewis' stories about the magical world called Narnia. See, when you entered this world, you could stay there for years upon years and when you returned to the real world, only a minute or so would have passed since you had left. I feel my experience at Millard North is just like that. I've spent nearly every day of my life there throughout the laBt four years. The weird thing is, that it only felt like two minutes have passed by. However, you people have made those two minutes feel so very special. I couldn't have asked for a better class to graduate with. Nor could I have asked to be at a better school. The underclassmen really don't Jknow what they have. It's not just the bigger things...not a concession stand or a brand new cafeteria with a food 1 court* Those are just, accessories, material possessions; They help, but try to look beyond them. Those things aren't what make this school the special place it is; the little things are...the random ' acts of kindness and the words of encouragement from one Btudent to another. Yes, as I said, these are the little things. However, when there are so many little things like the ones I just mentioned, they accumulate into something much much larger. It's the little things that get me through the day. I came to this school using a walker because I had just had surgery on one of my ankles. Believe me, I know how it feels to receive encouragement or compliraents. There are students in this crowd to .-wh,om 1,'m,not very close, yjet, I'vp,gotten encouragement from them. This just goes to show how powerful the effect of words can have on a single person.

The families and friends assembled here should feel proud to have such honorable, supportive and just plain good young men and women in their midst. I certainly am. These are the people who make this world such a special place, They're not public officials or public figures; they're ordinary, everyday people. I really feel that ordinary is an underrated word, for these ordinary people are the ones who will make the next millennium a bright shining one for our children and our children's children. This speech is now coming to a close. However, before I get off this podium, I will live uptomy reputation for being the (quote-unquote) guy who knows all about the movies. After all, I wouldn't dream of going against type. Now, I will leave you with one last movie quote. Yet, this time, I'm going to leave it to you to guess which one it comes from. Members of the audience, this quote is addressed directly toward the class of 1999: "You...complete me." Congratulations, fellow class members;.I hope each and every one of you stay healthy and happy on the road of life.

Society celebrates by Marcia Lipsman A large cast of mostly young, talented performers captured the flavor of the poetry, music, dance of Russian culture recently, when 175 members of the New American Cultural Society celebrated the 2O0th birthday of poet Alenxandr Pushkin. Born June 6,1799, in'Moscow, he was considered a rebel but went on to become Russia's greatest poet The performance, dedicated to this great man, followed Puskin's life in poetry readings/music and dance. Though performed in Russian, there were English translations in the program. The very active Society also celebrated Russian Victory Day with a program at the JCC featuring music, a slide show, stories of Russia's struggle during World War 1L It was followed by a reception of baked treats made by many of the women in the group.

A check for $5000 was presented to Jewish Seniors from fatty Nogg, center, 1998-99 Copresident of L.O.V.E. (along with her husband, Steve Nogg), to 1899-2000 JSS President Silvia Hoffman, right, and Barbara Gottlieb, Executive Director of JSS.

Lincoln Center Tifereth Israel hosts Annual Meeting The synagogue's annual meeting will include a

brunch on Sunday, June 27, at 11 a.m., at Tifereth Israel.

USY installs officers The USY Executive Committee met recently to plan next year's activities. New: officers are: Danielle Breslow, president; Mitch Graham, vicepresident; Adam Graham, social action/tikun olam; Jordan Kenyon, communications; Jacob WaUick, membership/Kadimah. Kadimah officers are: Iva Fabrikant, president; Maya Fabrikant, secretaryJosh Griffen, communications', and Ben WaWick, program.

JCC Quilt Show continues

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In addition to honoring voluneers, L.O.V.E. also installed new officers. They are: Marlene and Hyman Sukiennik, co-presidents; Julie.and Tim Kushner, fundraising vice-presidents; Carol Parsow, programming vice-president; Judi Brookstein, membership vice-president; Sheryl Friedman, recording secretary; Phyllis Zabin, corresponding secretary; Eileen Reiner, treasurer; Eileen Platt, gift, shop treasurer; and Patty and Steve Nogg, past-presidents.

"Quilts by Jewish Women and Men" is on display at the Jewish Community Center Gallery through June 27. The hand-made quilts range in size from bed quilts to quilted matza covers and mini-Torah covers. "We are thrilled to have this opportunity to display the creativity and talent of Jewish women and men in our community," said Sandy Passer, co-chairman of the

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June 18,1999

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 9

The Greatest Gift from "The Bird of Paradise and Other Sabbath Stories by Steven M. Rosman. adapted by Claudia Sherman with illustrations by Ruth Slow

(Editor's note: this issue brings a new ' ture to the Jewish Press; adaptations of Talmudic tales by Omahan Claudia Sherman with illustrations by Ruth Slow.)

Even though Isaac and Joseph were brothers, they were not friends. Isaac was jealous of every success and good fortune that came Joseph's way. Joseph, a land and caring man, worked hard in his P.S. 195 in Brooklyn, New York, was mostly a fields. Eventually, his crops grew into a bountiful harJewish school in the 1950's. The curriculum wasn't vest of grain, vegetables and fruit. On many occaJewish, but most of the students were. Claudia sions, Joseph asked Isaac to help with the work in the Harris Sherman, originally from Omaha, first fields and share in the harvest Joseph's unselfish attended P.S. 195 when her family was transferred attitude just made Isaac more angry. to Brooklyn, courtesy of the U.S. Air Force, from One night, Isaac devised a plan to ruin his brothOkinawa in the Pacific For East. er's a b u n d a n t h a r v e s t . Along with some lowly Ruth Slowwas born in Brooklynan/thad lived in friends, Isaac pulled up the crops in Joseph's fields the same neighborhood all of her eight years when and spread salt in the empty furrows so that nothshe and Claudia met as students in the same third ing would ever grow there again. Isaac sold the grade class at P.S. 195. The Harris and the Slow crops for a generous sum of money that he used to houses were situated back-to-back and separated by buy himself a big house. a high wire fence that ringed the Air Force Station Joseph was left with nothing but a where the Harris family lived. The fence did not worthless farm. He decided to go inhibit the girls'friendship. see Rabbi Akiva. "He is a wise After three years, the Harris family was trans- man and will give me good ferred to Marin County, California. Claudia and advice.1 Along the lengthy jourRuth have remained steadfast friends through the years, although they've been able to see each other ney to find Rabbi Akiva, only two times since the Harrises left for California Joseph grew tired and hungry. He spotted an and other assignments in this country and Europe.

' Slow attended Queens College where she earned a orange tree and sat • degree" in education-and o; master's in early child- down under it to rest. It hood education. >She also'received a second master'swas a Btrange looking degree in art and art education and a doctorate in tree. On one side of the art and art education, both from Teachers College, tree**1 grew graceful Columbia University,She has studied at the Art braaehes'ftill of green Students League in New York. leaves and juicy fruit. The Slow has taught in the area of early childhood, other side was brown and and special needs, was a cultural arts chairman in bare. "Help me! Please help me!" cried a New York school district, developed a research model for creating an artist residency program and the tree. a college course curriculum in the arts. Her paint"How can I help a tree?" responded ings, etchings and lithographs have been shown in Joseph. "I can't even help myself. That's why I'm group and juried exhibitions, including The Faber g o i n g t o s e e R a b b i A k i v a . " ••• .• Berrin Color Award Show for distinguished and "Do you think Rabbi Akiva could help me?" asked . cre.atiyg.,express\on with,cplpr, S.hethas,be$(i,repre- the tree. , i i . sented by galleries as well as in private collections "I will ask him!" declared Joseph. from New York to California. Thank you!" exclaimed the tree. "And please take Claudia earned a degree in journalism at the some of my sweet oranges to eat along the way. Just University of Missouri, started a free-lance newslet- don't forget me. You won't forget me, will you?" ter service and has worked and volunteered in pubJoseph promised not to forget the tree and continued lic relations positions with organizations including on his way. After a few hours, he came to a river. He the United Way of the Midlands, the Jewish began to wade across the water but it was too deep. Community Center, and has been with the He sat down on the river bank to determine how Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha he would cross when suddenly a huge fish splashed since 1992. She has been a free-lance writer for the Joseph. "No one crosses my river without talking to Jewish Press and other publications. me first," bellowed the fish. „ Slow now lives in Armonk, New York, and has two sons, Jonathan and Adam, who also live in New York. Claudia, who has lived in Omaha since 1969, is married to Marc Sherman; they have two children, Mitch and Jill. "I've always wanted to try writing some fiction," Sherman said "After talking to some people in the community who were supportive of my idea, I decided to try adapting Jewish stories for the Press. 1 thought it would be a good way to introduce children to a Jewish newspaper and provide another opportunity for parents to share something Jewish with their children." Editor Carol Katzman suggested illustrations to accompany the stories, Sherman added, "and so I asked Ruth. To do something creative 'together like this is really a dream we've had for years that we never knew would actually come true."

After Joseph explained that he was going to ask Rabbi Akiva how to solve the problems caused by his brother Isaac's nasty behavior, the fish asked, "Do you think Rabbi Akiva could help me, too? Fve had this awful pain behind my left ear for years." "I will ask Rabbi Akiva to help you, too," promised Joseph. With that, the fish offered to take Joseph across the river. Once on the other side of the river, Joseph continued on until he finally reached B'nai B'rak where Rabbi Akiva lived. The Rabbi listened as Joseph described his own problems as well as the plight of the tree and the fish. "Well," said Akiva. "When you return to the river, look behind the fish's left eye. And when you return to the tree, look under the roots on its bad side. "As for your' own troubles," Rabbi Akiva continued in a fatherly voice, "Remember that .the most important thing our Torah teaches us is to love your neighbor as yourself.n- - ,; Joseph thought about the Rabbi's words all night. The next day, Joseph returned 7 to the river and checked behind the fish's eye where>a;beautiftil pearl had caused all the pain. The fish was so delighted to be rid of the pain that he gave Joseph the pearl. When he reached the orange tree, Joseph searched under the roots and found a pouch buried among the roots. No wonder the tree couldn't grow properly! The grateful tree gave the pouch, which was full of gold coins, to Joseph, who was able'to buy a new farm with the pearl and the gold coins. Before long, he had a new harvest. Isaac, who had quickly squandered his money, came to see Joseph, who remembered what Rabbi Akiva had told him. Joseph forgave Isaac and taught him to be a good farmer. Joseph realized that the greatest gift was to have his brother's friendship. ' " l > • ''•'• Adapted from folklore

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 18,1899

Dip into refreshing summer reading by Rahel Musleah

NOTICE

This summer, books beckon like the shimmer of Natalie's mother inquires about accommodations at Key in to The B'nai B'rith sunlight on water, urging immersion. New writers the inn, she gets the following reply:. "Our Mid-America Jewish and seasoned .authors offer refreshing dips into fan- guests...are Gentiles." Natalie's.attempt to enter Annual Meeting, tasy,'historicalfiction,short stories, memoirs, mys- , this bastion of genteel anti-Semitism results in a Omaha at scheduled for June tical tales, family sagas and documentaries-all , provocative romantic coinedy.; ,,, lv www. 26 and 27 at the with a Jewish twist Without leaving your beach For the Relief of Unbearable Urges, a first colDoubleTree Hotel, Jewish chair, you can travel backward in time to Paris lection of short stories from 28-year-old Nathan has been canceled. during the last millennium, to.Palestine a century Englander has won critical acclaim, earning comoznaha. org ago, to 1940s New York, to World War II Cairo, and parisons to the fiction of I.B. Singer, Saul Bellow and Bernard Malamud. In settings as varied as to a host of other destinations. • contemporary Brooklyn Heights and Jerusalem, A Journey to the End of the Millennium, by (•dwnfl. Buti»l.*n Israeli author A.B. Yehoshua (translated by Nazi-ravaged Europe and Stalinist,Russia, do too toy * °pf Nicholas Lange, Doubleday, $24) is a tale of Englander's characters confront the complexities of ci a dayfcwnwn and on* o Hoy for twos-two wives, two continents, cultures and faiths Judaism in inventive situations rendered deftly wotnvft- nn tnws rtion fout lima* o wMk- r«fucM four m t (or inony set in the year 999, a date with sharp resonance for with humor and precision. probl*n>t cortmctad wilh olcc<Hot, In TheGilgul of Park Avenue, for instance, a today. Ben Attar, a Moroccan Jewish merchant, sets out on a voyage to visit his business partner Protestant has a religious awakening in the back of For mort Information, c a l l l •000.640-4444. and nephew Abulafia, whose new blue-eyed a New York taxi. In the title story, a Hasidic man European wife, Esther-Minna, wonts to dissolve incensed by his wife's menstrual cycle gets a dispensation from the rabbi to see a prostitute.. the partnership. The reason? Ben Attar has two wives, a practice Englander's talent makes the improbable believthat was acceptable among Sephardic Jews but able (Knopf, $22). Celebrated novelist and critic Anne Roiphe delivabhorrent to Ashkenazim. Accompanied by his wives and a rabbi from Seville, Ben Attar tries to ers a devastating yet redemptive tale in her memconvince Esther-Minna, as well as two legal tri- oir, 1185 Park Avenue (Free Press, $25). Growing Sushi Bar and Grill bunals, of the sanctity of the double marriage. The up rich and Jewish in New York of the 1940s and novel not only highlights the contemporary conflict 50s, Roiphe's childhood was shattered by her parbetween Sephardic and Ashkenazic cultures, but ents' miserable marriage. She somehow manages to Miracle Hills Square explores universal moral and religious issues and escape the destructive wake of philandering, grief, 631N. 114th encourages readers to define a paradigm for the anger and lovelessness. From being the family peacemaker, she develops into a rebellious Bomillennium ahead. 431-1532 Two other Israeli authors explore the themes of hemian and then matures into the writer we know HOURS: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 5:30-10 p.m. love and destiny in new novels both written in a today as the author of seven novels. Roiphe's story is haunting, unsentimental and compelling. magical realistic style. Colette Rossant's Memories of a Lost Egypt: A The Loves of Judith, by Meir Shalev, traces the life of Judith, who arrives in Palestine after World Memoir with Recipes also portrays the tensions Come and experience the True War II. For 10 years, three men strive to win her of life among the upper crust-this time in a memoir love, until she gives birth to Zayde, who looks like that straddles Paris and Cairo (Clarkson Potter, .Middle East and Dine With Us! all three. All three consider him their son and par- $20). French-born cookbook author and columnist ticipate in raising him. The novel is told from Zayde's point of view as an adult (translated by Rossant vividly recalls her childhood: abandoned at the age of six by her mother, raised by her Egyptian Barbara Harshav, Ecco Press, $25). Four Mothers, Shifra Horn's surrealistic debut grandparents, she escaped the intense pressure of novel of five generations of women, is set against being "upstairs" by discovering the "downstairs" Mon.-Sal OPEN (or >: the backdrop of Jerusalem. A national bestseller in domain of chef Ahmet and the rest of the servants. astern ftiisine Lunch & Dinner Israel, this mystical tale follows Amal, of the fifth Recipes include exotic comfort food like Ful generation, as she tries to unlock the curse that Medamas-fava beans cooked with pickled turnips, Rockbrook Village • 108th & Center 384-9296 has destroyed all the marriages in her family onions and hot peppers; and Tomato Salad, made with tarragon, chivea, lemon juice and olive oil. (translated by Dalya Bilu, St. Martin's, $23.95). Back in the USA, Kaaterskill Falls (Dial, Strudel Stories, a slim novel by children's $28.95) depicts an Orthodox Jewish community author Joanne Rocklin, tucks stories of seven genwhose life pivots around its rebbe and whose mem- erations of a Jewish family in between the apple bers summer in the Catskills. slices of a warm strudel fresh from the oven. like ' Rated a "Best Book" of 1998 by Publishers the layers of Grandpa Willie's strudel, Rocklin fills AUTHENTIC Weekly, Allegra Goodman's novel explores marital in the autobiographical kernel of her own family and sibling relationships, secular vs. Orthodox con- history with stories of Czarist Russia, overseas voy• North American Fare Available flicts, generational and feminist issues. 'Within her ages, Holocaust refugees, baseball and friendships focused context, Goodman creates a panorama of (Delacorte, $14.95). • We also offer a menu with heart-healthy choices universal themes. For those who want a more dramatic read, BeA different summer experience faces 12-year-old tween Silk and Cyanide: A Codemaker's War, 380 North 114th Street 330-5707 Natalie Marx in Elinor Lipman's The Inn at Lake 1941-1945, by Leo Marks (Free Press, $27.50), tells 7555 Pacific Street 399-8006 Devine (Vintage, $12). It's 1962, and when the gripping story of espionage and war. In 1942, 22-year-old Leo Marks left his father's famous bookshop in London and soon became a genius at cryptography. As head of the Special Operations Executive, he revolutionized the Allies' codemaking techniques by convincing the British bureaucracy to scrap the use of poetry in favor of giving agents random numeric codes printed on 'Plaques silk, which could be easily hidden and destroyed, •Medallions and would not be remembered if the agents were •Engraving tortured. Marks, now a screenwriter, trained some •Trophies of the most famous agents in occupied Europe. •Emblems Gottfried Wagner, the great-grandson of compos•Business er Richard Wagner, uncovers his own family Gifts secrets in his memoir Twilight of the Wagners: •Advertising The Unveiling of a Family's Legacy (Picador, Specialties $25). Hitler is an inescapable presence here as well "the premier fine-dining spot „? -Jim Dcllilutit, (hmht UirU-llaM as on the Wagner estate in Bayreuth, Germany. R k i MJgama - hmilcd to (KiCntkin . O u t tVttttuwu b o h - M .».. the B n l M Staffed l\>tk Ch»P - Huffed Disinherited by his father, Gottfried became an ami Mfned with Rcmlni hcrh htittcr wiilt mtuarrll't ilicnr. u|^ and . Itniuiuiiii, with TmMctt parlic denti impassioned crusader against his great-grandfaNY Sfckl* Stiff Sink • USIWl l>ria»i Rib udSca» l . K ra. ,*,»,, U ther's powerful legacy and a champion of greater O»ict\ agnl then hhtiW ami tDffK^ ikiw uward |ttimc lilt setttt! witlt a with BnnWti hcth butter petite ptttiittit nftmr ihtinip uattijti Cttlckn Uacar - latncnl hma tiC OfDsnNCKJN understanding between Germans and Holocaust thVicn with dill ntot and a^arapo, survivors worldwide. Saw Ibawtal M a t R i l - > m l with Cfcattnbriajaal for T«t> . ami uMe h nmsala wtnc nnunncim tauce Mluialau|iK.bl>ncki< title; nttltt nit tcntletlotn odxtf with . More first novels with promise: A Blessing on a iMMMjtKt ttf fmh trr^ahlr*. Ituaitm Bulled SalMM filel - holt aimed the Moon, by Joseph Skibell, is based on events in SuA —i U b t t t - 6 to. nio and a and hcanuiir MIHT filet «t ulnwn with < njr pinpt aaucc 6165 Center St. SOL cold water Matei tail the author's own family's history, as is obvious with 553*3200 the protagonist's name: Chaim Skibelski. 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Page 11

Summer reading (Continued from page 10) the World to Come, so he wanders the Hitler's rising power, and his parPolish countryside (aided by his ents' divorce, Joey Margolis craves a . rabbi, who has turned into a crow) surrogate dad and strikes up a correrevisiting his home and setting out to spondence with New York Giants' find the moon, which has inexplicably slugger Charlie Banks (Bard, $12). fallen from the sky (Berkley, $12). Aaron, Approximately, by From Chaim to Hyntiet Veteran Zachary Lazar, is a coming-of-age playwright and actor Norman Beim novel also predicated around the loss; •'• sets' hiB fantasy-memoir, Hymie and of a father. Aaron Bright's father is a the Angel, in Newark, NJ, 1933. clown and host of a kiddie show in Hymie, a Polish immigrant and tav- '' Colorado. After a tragic publicity ern keeper who consumes too much of • stunt, Aaron tries to satisfy and what he sells, hires an out-of-town transcend his father's legacy (Spike;1 ''' stranger named Adam to help around $13.50). the bar. He doesn't realize that Adam So dive in! Check'the Jewish is his personal angel until the Angel ' Federation Library where some of of Death skulks into the tavern and these books may be found. Happy Adam wins his employer a four- summer reading... month respite (New Concept Press, Rahel Musleah is a freelance $12.95).

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

June 18,1999

NCCJ honors volunteers (Continued from page 1)

Volunteers honored at Beth El annual meeting (Continued from, page 1) Paul Cohen, Larry HasBlinger, Allen MorriB, Les Kay, Sara Juster, Rob Goodman and Rhonda Saferstein. A desBert reception followed the meeting, with music provided by Anna Mosenkis.

William R. Johnson, NCCJ Presiding Chair, presented awards to Philip and Harley Schrager.

Rabbi Paul Drazen, left, presented the Harry Weiner, center, received the Selwyn President's Award for volunteer efforts by a Hoffman religious growth award from Rabbi non-board member to Alan "Buddy" Goodman. Drazen and President Mike Abramson.

Judy Baker, right, talks with dinner guests about the evening's honorees.

Dave "Poppy" Krantz and Sally Vcnger shared the festivities with NCCJ supporters. commitment to this historic mission." "All of tonight's honorees share important and special qualities. They have all distinguished themselves through unceasing hard work and dedication,'' said Mrs. Baker. "They are all goal oriented and, most importantly, they truly care about their friends and neighbors, their community, and about people they may never meet." During the evening, five individuals were honored for their contributions to the mission statement of NCCJ. Mr. Baker said, "These people are being honored tonight because they realize that there's something more to living besides pure success. There's something beyond money, power and achievement. That is the obligation to help build a better society!" ..:... The Otto Swanson Spirit of Service Award was presented to Brenda J. Council by Gerald A. Hoberman, NCCJ Co-Chairman. "Ms. Council has touched every segment of the Omaha community," he noted. William R. Johnson, NCCJ Presiding Chairman, presented Humanitarian Awards to Hurley D. and Phillip G. Schrager. "The Schragers have, through their generous contributions of time, talents and resources, promoted understanding and respect from all members of this community," Johnson said. "It was appropriate that they be recognized for all their efforts. Under their leadership, Pacesetter Corporation has been a consistent and generous resource for this community." Harley Schrager said he never thought of himself as being a humanitarian; he simply wanted to be • , known as someone who was giving something back to a community that has enriched his life and the lives of his family. Phillip Schrager said it is not difficult to recognize that there are people in Omaha for whom life is not so grand. "Bigotry, racism and bias still exist in our society and I hope to do what I can to fight injustice and to help thoae who are less fortunate," he noted. "I know that whatever I've done for others has been a fulfilling and rewarding part of my life." Dr. Lh Karnes presented the awards to Kenneth E. and Ann M. Stinson. Rabbi Ayreh Azriel of Temple Israel closed the evening by saying, "God, help us find within our minds the enduring truth of life. Help us become givers. Show us how to be charitable. Lead us to those who are truly deserving, for giving is so holy an act Help us n'nd the truly needy and help them find us*

Jackson's appeal for Iranian Jews signals a long way from 'Hymietown' by Julia Goldman Taking the podium at the Park East Synagogue on NEW YORK (JTA) - Those who remember the Rev. • Jesse Jackson referring to New York as "Hymietown" Manhattan's Upper East Side, Jackson committed in 1984 or embracing Palestinian leader Yasser himself to a newinterfaith partnership on behalf of the Arafat in 1979, taboo at the time, may be surprised to "moral issue" of the Iranian Jews. He told the assemBee the African American leader taking up the cause bly, which included Jewish leaders, synagogue memof 13 Iranian Jews facing possible execution on bers and the families of two of the prisoners, that today "we work together to set the captives free." Jackson charges of spying for Israel. But the Jesse Jackson of 1999 looks back on said he had already started to set up a network of decades of activism on behalf of the Jewish commu- contacts to the religious leadership in Iran. Since word of the Iranian arrests reached U.S. nity, whose leadership last week turned to Jackson shores over two months ago, a task force of for help on behalf of the Iranian Jews. Jackson himself reminded Jewish leaders of this American Jewish organizations, working together work before a news conference Sunday in New with the prisoners' relatives living in America, has York, where he reiterated his commitment to lobby launched a campaign of quiet diplomacy to bring the Iranian government for the Jewish prisoners' about the release of the prisoners, who were being release. Introducing Jackson, Ronald Lauder, held without being charged. Last week, however, Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major the Iranian government, announced that the prisonAmerican Jewish Organizations, an umbrella orga- ers-including rabbis, religious teachers and comnization of 65 Jewish groups, highlighted examples munity activists aged 16 to 49-would be tried as Zionist spies. Espionage is punishable by death. of Jackson's pro-Jewish advocacy.

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