May 5, 2000

Jewish Prer

MOTHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE, SECOND SECTION - POLITICAL PREVIEW, PAGE 1{ VoL LXXK No. 35 Omaha, NE

' 1 '' 1 I.

-iOCIETY ••;!

May 5,2000

30 Nissan, 5760

Maxwell Street Klezmer Band to appear during Yom Ha'Atzmaut

by Carol Katzman Enthusiastically received in Omaha air market, crowded with in 1997, the high-energy Maxwell Jewish peddlers. The market Street Klezmer Band will make a survived until the early 1990s.

In February of 1998, the band return appearance for the 52nd anniversary of the founding of the played at Carnegie Hall and, State of Israel this Sunday, May 7, later that year, at Lincoln Center in New York City. The same at 2 pan.

Events start at 12:30 pjn. with open- year, Maxwell Street toured ing ceremonies. Also planned are: Europe with stops in London, "incredible inflatables in the gym, from Munich, Vienna, Amsterdam, 12:45-2 p.m.; musical entertainment by Enschede and the Hague.

The band has also been feaAnna Mosenkis and Lev Shektman in the Gallery; arts and crafts for kids tured on Public Television and Public Radio. and an indoor pool party, and the Yom National Ha'Atzmaut Cafe, featuring everything Comprised of two vocalists and from kosher hot dogs to felafel and pita clarinet, saxophone, violin, trumpet, trombone, keyboard, with hummus.

Founded in 1983 by singer. Lori string bass and drums, the Lippitz, the Maxwell Street Klezmer band combines classical and Band has performed with such well jazz styles with folk traditions.

The group has produced three known artists as Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul and Mary), Theodore CDs; the latest, You Should Be So Lucky! is one of the 10 bestBikel and Debbie Friedman.

Named after the Maxwell Street selling klezmer recordings in market in Chicago, the band plays in the United States.

According to music critic An tribute to the spirit of the city's early immigrants and the music they made. Davidow, "...for starters, this is a Maxwell Street was to Chicago.what traditional band. There is no rock _.^_ the! Lower East Side was tOjNewv -or (modern) jazz her^. On the | w aaBS B B > BI — l BH al HB wm :York. At the turn of the century, othdr hand they aren't so tfadi-' .^^^^™™ ^^^ 7iP^^ ^*' ^^^^^ ^"^ '^^^ ™ ^^ ^" f T™" '™ tionalastodisdainahfeflysprin-' "The MaxweU Street Klezmer Band from Chicago will perform this Sunday when the first waves of Russian at 2 Djn a t t h e J C C as ' part of Israeli Independence Day. Jewish immigrants settled in kling ofYiddish theaterWnbers."

All the activities at the JCC the entire community, according to Services Director, For information, America, Chicago's Maxwell Street became famous for its Sunday open- are free (except the Cafe) and open to Lisa Shkolnick, JCC Member call her at 334-6425.

My ordeal with Irving showed 'I was wrong to laugh 20 years ago'

by Deborah E. Lipstadt

libeled him by calling him ATLANTA (JTA)-In a denier? This was, I pre1995, when I opened a letsumed, a nuisance lawsuit, ter informing me that full of sound and fury but David Irving was suing signifying nothing. me for libel for calling him A couple of lawyers' leta Holocaust denier, I had ters, I naively assumed, and precisely the same reacall would be resolved. But tion that I had 20 years Irving was doing this in earlier when I first heard England where the laws that there were people favor the plaintiff. I had to who denied the Holocaust. prove the truth of what I I laughed. said. He did not have to Why, I wondered, take prove the falsehood. this seriously? Holocaust deniers reminded me of flatHis talks are replete with earth theorists. The idea references to how he is being was preposterous; persecuted by the Jewish community. In 1992, he told living's charges seemed an audience that "our old equally preposterous. He traditional enemies" are "the had repeatedly denied the Holocaust. At the trial of Dr. Deborah Lipstadt,author ot Denying the g r e a t international merErnst Zundel, the Cana- Holocaust, won the libel suit by Holocaust chant banks [which] are condian Holocaust denier, he denier David Irving. trolled by people who are no said there was no "Reich policy to kill the Jews" friends of yours and mine." and "no documents whatsoever show that a In Baton Rogue, LA, he told a critic in the audiHolocaust had ever happened." ence, whom he assumed was a Jew, "You people In Germany, Irving declared the Holocaust a aren't liked either. You are not just disliked in the "blood lie [which] has been pronounced on the way that I am disliked, in that you get bad reviews German people." In 1991, he dropped mention of from the.newspapers. You're disliked in the way the Holocaust from his new edition of Hitler's biog- that people put you in concentration camps and raphy because "if something didn't happen then line you up on the edge of tank pits and machine you don't even dignify it with, a footnote." gun you into them."

That same year, he declared it his goal to "sink He talks not only about what has been done to the Battleship Auschwitz."

Jews, but what will be done to them.

• Given this record, how could he claim that I (Continued on page 11)

Are we ready for a Jewish Veep?

Al Gore could do a lot worse than Joe Lieberman, and probably will

by Jonathan S. Tobin

My own personal political-nightmare scenario doesn't involve a coup d'etat by right-wing lunatics who attempt to take over the government of the United States. Fll let other people worry about that unlikely possibility.

My nightmare is what is supposed to be every Jewish mother's fantasy: a Jewish president of the United States. That is, a Jewish president who cares nothing about Jewish values and would be a role model for apathy about Jewish life and ambivalence about Israel. Such a president would be, in my opinion, not good for the Jews.

That nightmare comes partly to life in a film called Deterrence, which opened recently. The movie, a low-budget, mediocre political thriller (which may be gone from the theaters even before this newspaper is recycled), is built around the concept of a non-elected Jewish president having to decide about a possible war in the Middle East.

The president in the movie, as played by the nebbishy-looking Kevin Pollak (I guess Harrison Ford was busy), is a strutting, trigger-happy little guy who tries to appear tough. When asked during a crisis about his Judaism, he replies that he is an atheist. Talk about reinforcing the non-Jewish world's stereotypes about Jews!

(Continued on page 20)

DO

DUTY...

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

REJMEM&LR Y0UR&U&&1L, VOUR M O T I t t and YOUR DAUGHTER Give a membership or give their memorabilia to the

Nebraska Jewish Historical Society 402-334-6441 or 6442

l e t Mulhall's help you fill your garden with Now through June 15, Mulhall's Nursery is donating 10% of your purchases to help fund the creation of a wheelchair accessible park at the

Blumkin Home!

MULHALL'S, 120th & Maple 496-0700^

CUP & SAVE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS FRIDAY, MAY 5 Temple Israel NFTY Spring Conclave, May 6-7, in Kansas City Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m.

Kids Lunch & Learn, Noon, at Beth El Temple Israel "Shabbat Comes to You," 2 p.m., L at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home I SATURDAY,MAY6 p Bagels & Bible, 9:30 a.m., at Temple Israel & Humash Class, 7:45 p.m., at Beth El SUNDAY.MAY7 j? Yom Ha Atzmaut Celebration, Noon v Israel Experience Prep class, 1:30 p.m.

E MONDAY, MAY 8 YES Program, 9:30 a.m.

"In the News", 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel TUESDAY, MAY9 Lunch & Learn, with Rabbi Drazen, Noon, Beth El JOLT Session, 7 p.m., at FJA Commons WRJ Executive Committee, 6:30 p.m., at Temple WRJ Board Meeting, 7 p.m., at Temple Israel Renewal/Healing Service, 7 p.m., at Temple Israel Executive Meeting, 7:30 p.m., at Beth El Bamidbar with Rabbi Levin, 7:30 p.m., at Beth Israel WEDNESDAY, MAY 10 _ B'nai B'rith Banquet, 6 p.m., at Aksarben L High School Dinner Night, 6 p.m., at Beth El I JYG Dinner, 6 p.m., at Temple Israel p NCJW Installation Dinner, 7 p.m., at the Marriott . Talmud with Rabbi Kutner, 7:30 p.m., Beth Israel THURSDAY, MAY 11 S Walk-in Drop-in, 9:30 a.m. * Adult Education, 10 a.m., at Temple Israel E JELS Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

All events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. The Jewish Pmss Is notresponsible)for the accuracy of the events.

To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Mariano Hart at 334-6437.

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May 5,2000

Ethiopians, Syrians, Philistines and Israelites

by Rabbi MyerS. Kripke

Parasha Kedoshim We never tire of quoting the most famous line of our weekly Torah reading: "Love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord."

Taken as the keystone of the ethical structure of Judaism, it implies all of the ethical duties of being human, compassion, cooperation, honesty, justice, etc., etc.,—all subsumed under the category of love.

But the reader is reminded that these duties fall on him because his humanity is derived from the Lord's gift of life to him. So too is his neighbor's. It is not enough to read, "Love your neighbor as yourself." The verse must be completed: "I am the Lord."

Here the Torah parts company, for example, from Greek religions and Greek philosophy. If one wants to understand Greek ethics, he reads Plato and Aristotle, secular philosophers. If he goes to the Greek religions, they have nothing to offer.

A 19th century Italian commentator on Torah pointed out, in this connection, that the judgment that your neighbor and you share a common humanity is not based in Judaism on any scientific analysis of the structure of the human body. It is based on the deeply held religious conviction, as Genesis puts it, that he and you are both "created in the image of God." To bolster this thought our Haftarah offers the astonishing admonition of Amos, which his contemporaries must have considered subversive. Amos insists that God loves, not only the Israelites, but the Arameans (Syrians) and the Philistines (who then occupied what is today the Gaza Strip) and the Ethiopians as well! (How history repeats itself in the cast of characters!)

At Maalot, where particularly gruesome and inhuman acts of terrorism took place, Israeli rabbis, in the midst of the anguish of bereaved parents, insisted that the bodies of terrorists not be . mistreated: you must remember the common • humanity that they disdained.

These thoughts lead us to many different implications, each of which could be developed into an ethical essay or sermon.

The editor of Foreign Policy magazine once pointed out that it was the dehumanization of Jews and others, systematically and deliberately effected, that made it possible for so many "ordinary" people to participate without qualms in murdering them.

American high school students who have been shown Nazi films of naked camp victims, emaciated, skeletal, eyes staring and protruding from bony skulls and expressionless faces, have been heard to laugh and jeer at those appointed for death.

The laughter was not always nervous uneasiness at male and female nudity in quantity, and not always because they were emotionally off balance at the thought of imminent death, and not always anti-Semitic.

It was easy for American high schoolers to laugh at these bony, walking things and for Nazis to murder these I still breathing things—because they had been reduced to subhuman status.

I have had occasion to point out to high schoolers and adults that they, and I, could be reduced to the same status in relatively short time. It would take only drastic mistreat ment, deprivation of food and water, removal of all decent clothing, subjection to endless cold, beatings, verbal abuse, and fear. Not for years; months would do, even days.

If Jews wear "zakhor" badges and want to remember the Holocaust and its victims, our brothers, and incessantly to to remind the world about them, it is not out of a sense of boasting about special levels of suffering.

It is rather out of a sense of duty to mankind, to keep before everyone, always, the simple but profound, recognition that all human beings are human beings.

It is denying our common humanity that leads us to deny to others the rights of human beings.

"Love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord."

Deaths LEE JANE PABSOW Services for Lee Jane Parsow were held at Beth El Synagogue on April 28. She was 77.

She and her husband, Sol, were honored by L.O.V.E. (the League Offering Volunteers for the Elderly) in 1995. Lee Jane was a part of the original organizing effort 29 years ago and chaired L.O.V.E. for three years and co-chaired it for a fourth.

Survivors 'include her husband, Sol; sons and daughters-inJaw, Alan and Carol Parsow, Jay and Margo Parsow, David and Kit Parsow and Steven and Debra Parsow, all of Omaha; grandchildren, Joshua, Daniel, Michael, Aaron and Charles; and brother and sister-in-law, Barton "Bucky" and Caryl Greenberg.

Memorials to Beth El Synagogue or the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

ELAINE WHITMAN KUKLIN Former Omahan Elaine June Whitman Kuklin died in Reseda, CA, at the age of 70.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie.

Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Amy Kuklin and Scott and Twila Kuklin; granddaughters, Leah and Heather, and one greatgrand-daughter, all of California; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Betty and Bus Rubin of Omaha.

MARGARET NEARENBERG Services for Margie Nearenberg were held April 30 at Golden Hill Cemetery. She was 93.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Milton, and her son, Martin. .

Nearenberg held offices in both Pioneer Women and Workmen's Circle. She also sang in the musical productions presented by the Circle's Dramatic Club.

Survivors include daughters, Lucille Nearenberg and Marilyn Katz; daughter and sons-in-law, Perry and Sandra Jones; son and daughter-in-law, Ruth and Sidney Nearenberg; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sisters, Shirley Lewit and Gerite Klayman of New York City; .brothers, Charlie Feldman of Chicago and Sol Feldman of NYC; and daughter-in-law, Natalie Nearenberg.

Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home.

Former Press publisher visits Omaha

Former Omahan Stan Lipsey, publisher of The Buffalo News, visited here last week and stopped by the newly remodeled Jewish Press office. Lipsey chaired the Press board of directors for more than 20 years.

'Unto every person there is a name' The B'nai B'rith of Lincoln, in participation with National B'nai B'rith, will present a reading of names and victime of the Holocaust.The names will be read by youth group members of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue and B'nai Jeshurun Temple.

The program will be conducted on the west steps of the Capitol on Sunday, May 7,10 a.m.-l p.m.

The Jewish Federation of Lincoln and Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery will host a reception for the opening of The Perpetual Well, an exhibit of contemporary art from the collection of the Jewish Museum in New York, Tuesday, May 23,7-9 pan.

May 5,2000

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

LEUGHTING: 8:08 p.m.,

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BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE 7023Caw»'«

el. Omaha, NB 68132-2651 -556-0530

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FRIDAY: lot bhabbat, 7 p.m.-u short starvice oi song and prayer, followed by cookies and juice, will be held for toddlers through children in the primary grades and their families.

Shabbat evening service, 8 p.m. Rabbi Debbie Stiel and Cantor Jennifer Blum will officiate.

Members of Women of Reform Judaism-Omaha and Men's Club will lead this creative service, which will include personal writings of some of the participants on the Omaha Millenium Mission to Israel. Tuffy Epstein and his band will provide the music at the special Israeli Oneg Shabbat, sponsored by Karen and Bob Lepp in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Dustin, and by the Women of Reform Judaism.

SATURDAY: Bagels and Bible, 9:30-10:15 sum.; Shabbat morning service, 10:30 a.m. D u s t i n Denney Lepp, son of Karen and Robert Lepp, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah.

SITTER SERVICE is available each Friday evening, Saturday mornings for Bagels and Bible and the worship service, as well as Sunday mornings when there is Religious School (and for the scholar-in-residence program). Cost is $2 per family. Please make a reservation at the Temple office.

ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAY, M a y 11: Sisterhood Adult Education, 10-11:30 aan. Rabbi Ira Flax will teach about the interconnection between Jewish history and our religion and culture.

CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURAN ' 1 1 ' *> rtf* * v * SOUTHED S T R E E T T E M P L E

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Member nfthn Union iif Orthodox Jrwiah Congn gatioiui nf Ami rli Ji

1602 No. 52nd Street. Omnb.i, NE (18104-501 a 656-6288 Itothlsriu'lCTiavjn.iH I

Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser.

FRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 p.m.

SUNDAY: Hebrew classes, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 aan.

SATURDAY, May 13: Third Annual Temple Auction starts at 6 p.m. at Mist/s Edgewood; dinner is at 7 pan.

SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m, led by Harold Gottleib. Members of the community are welcome.

Services are held in the Herbert Goldsten Chapel, followed by Kiddush. A memorial service is held on the last Shabbat of each month, in memory of residents who have died.

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.

Temple Israel offers B'nai Mitzvah Class If you missed the opportunity to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah when you were 13 years old, take advantage of Temple Israel's B'nai Mitzvah class starting this fall on Sept. 7, Thursday evenings, from 7-9 p.m. Temple will offer one hour of Hebrew and one hour of Judaic studies. The classes will culminate in a B'nai Mitzvah on May 11, 2001.

For those without basic knowledge of the Hebrew alphabet, a special introductory class will start Thursday, June 1-Aug. 31, 7 p.m. Students who have taken Hebrew should contact Rabbi Debbie Stiel; to register, call the Temple office, 556-6526.

^ S S S

Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.noon. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner.

FRIDAY: Services, 7 p.m., at Beth Israel. West Minyan at the home of Howard Gendelman and Bonnie Bloch, 125 So. 127 Plz., 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY: Shabbos morning services, 8:45 a.m. "Insights into the Parsha," class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:30 p.m.; Mincha, 8 p.m.; Havdallah, 9:14 p.m.

SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 8:15 p.m.

Spring planting at the synagogue, 4 p.m. Check your bulletin to select which type of flowers to bring. Torah T.V. for this evening is cancelled.

WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 8:15 p.m.

TUESDAY: Class with Rabbi Shlomo Levin, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Rabbi's Talmud Class, 7 p.m.

Sunday, May 21: "Discovery" Sunday;

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TIFERETHI8RAEU ><{', , , '

,"Cf" * Member of the United Synagogue " V ' of Conservative Judaism ].• V , { 3219 Sheridan Blvd.; Lincoln,NE 68502-5236 u •''' V " ' " <* f' ^ 423-8569'^ k"r' >~ i. 7"~* • Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday and Thursday, 7:15 a.m.

FRIDAY: Services, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY: Parashat Kadoshim, Rosh Chodesh, Services, 9:30 a.m.

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MQmborofthQjpnibf»*(jfAmerican Congregation Mnrnhor of tho Ttmb»"Wf AmeriDAiiflebi^w Hebrew Catttfresrati - 2061 S,2{tth'sy;,I^Cfllri,NTE 68502:2797 , 435-8004;'\,, •• tW^r'i1' <jewisbj»e)brasfia.org

embeJ?ofV^tMSynago^e of Conservative Judaism ' " X 14606California, ~ •>< Omaha, NE 68154-1980'

B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE

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018 Mynster S t , Council Bluff8,'IA51503-0766 Phone: 322-470S ; E-MAIlid6cjeb@aol.com FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. Topic of discussion: Can intelligent writing and thought be invested in the creature of illusion? An Oneg Shabbat will follow.

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman.

FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat - .

SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.

SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS: Minyan, 7 a.m.

MONDAY: Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul, 11:45 aan.-l pan.

TUESDAY: A Tale of Two Souls, 9-.30-11 a.m.

BEYT SHALOM? •**•;

> An Affiliate of «ur .."•»•• - v ' i Jewish ReconattuoUoniat Federation 3012 S. 119th S t , P.O. Box 241130, •<i ; , Omaha, NE68124-5130. . phone: 758-9233 http://welcoine.ta/beytshalom/ FRIDAY: Scout Shabbaton Kabbalat Shabbat, 8 p.m. at Camp Cedars. No Services at the synagogue.

SATURDAY: Morning services at Camp Cedars at 10 a.m.

Religious School: No school Sunday due to the Shabbaton. Classes resume Tuesday at the JCC. Last day of school for this semester is May 14, FRIDAY, May 12: Tot Shabbat, 7 p.m.

WEB-www.bethel-omaha.org Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Services are conducted by Rabbi Paul Drazen and Cantors Emil Berkovits and G. Michael Horwitz.

FRIDAY: Services, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY: Services, 9-.30 aan. Men's Club will participate. Kiddush following services; Sitter service, 10 aan.; TSS (Torah Siddur Skills), 10 aan.; ICtantan, 10:45 aan.; Shabbat Story time, 11 a m , ; Humash with Rashi study session, 7:50 p.m.; Minha-Ma'airiv and Havdalah services, 8:20 pan.

SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m., Men's Club breakfast following; Perek Yomi "Read a Chapter a Day" group, 10:15 aan.

FAMH.Y SHABBAT Friday, May 12, 6 p.m.; services will be held featuring the Youth Choir. A traditional Shabbat dinner will follow, make your reservations today.

BESST GRADUATION Saturday, May 13: Graduation ceremony for BESTT students in eighth grade and high school will be at Shabbat morning services.

Bar Mitzvah Jacob William Bleicher, son of Jon and Helen Bleicher, will become a , Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, May 13, at Temple Israel.

A seventh grade honorj roll student at Brownell Talbot, he enjoys Tae Kwon Do and guitar. He is a member of the Competitive Math Team land was selected to parIticipate in the Duke University Talent Search. .

For his Mitzvah Project, he volunteered at Temple with babysitting and in the office, as well as helping with mailings for Wings of Hope Cancer support group.

Jacob has a brother, Josh.

Grandparents are Jerome and Freda Bleicher.

Great-grandparents are Brian Jackson and the late

Shabbat services and dinner at Beth El A traditional Kabbalat Shabbat Service, for adults and children, is planned for Friday night, May 12, at Beth El Synagogue. The service, which begins at 6 p.m., will feature the voices of the Beth El Youth Chorus. Following services, everyone is invited to join together for a Shabbat Dinner in the Social Hall.

The cost of the dinner is $9.50 for adults and $5 for children ages three and above. There is no charge for children under three. : The Kabbalat Shabbat service and Shabbat dinner are sponsored by Beth El's Family Programming Committee, chaired by Sara Juster and Rhonda Saferstein.

For more information and reservations, call the synagogue office, 492-8550.

Israel: Inside and Oiit at Temple Israel The Women of Reform Judaism and Men's Club of Temple Israel will present an evening celebrating the many faces of Israel. Members of the two auxiliaries will lead the creative service tonight, May 5, at 8 p.m.

The service will include personal writings of some of the participants on the Omaha Millennium Mission to Israel. Tuffy Epstein and his band will provide the music for Israeli dancing during the Oneg Shabbat.

Page 4

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 6,2000

It's your obligation!

What dp Mother's Day and the upcoming Nebraska Primary have in common?

At first glance, nothing. After all, Mother's Day was created by the greeting card companies as a marketing tool to sell more cards. And the primary is about exercising the constitutional right to vote.

However, the two have more in common than you might think Lets look at them from a Jewish point of view.

Mother's Day, in Jewish life, should happen every day. The fifth commandment does state: Honor your father and mother (guess that means that Father's Day should be celebrated daily, too!). The Torah doesn't command us to love our parents, but to honor and respect them, even if we disagree with them.

And when might we disagree with our parents? Right around the time of the primary or general election.

Think back to the '60s and '70s when the Baby Boomers argued with their parents about everything

from the Vietnam War to civil rights to women's rights to the virtues (and vices) of both political parties.

The boomers are all grown up now and have children of their own. And now they're on the other side of the political "discussions."

We're not telling you how to cast your ballot, but to discuss the issues and the candidates with your parents (and your children). Weigh the merits of ballot initiatives and the qualifications of those running for office. Think about the future and those who will be leading the city, state and country.

The only way to transmit values from one generation to the next is by setting an example. You can't expect your kids to vote if you cast it off as a nuisance. And you can't expect children to "honor" their parents if you don't give them reasons to respect you.

So Happy Mother's Day and don't forget to vote on May 9!

With eye on November, candidates target Jewish To the Editor:

by Sharon Samber

WASHINGTON (JTA) - The day before Super Tuesday, Vice President Al Gore was in New York and Texas Gov. George W. Bush was in California, but both were out looking for the Jewish vote.

Now that each has sewn up his party's nomination, will the presidential candidates continue to seek Jewish support? Or were the visits to Jewish institutions merely attempts to lock up last-minute votes in states with large Jewish populations?

Jewish voters make up only a tiny percent of the American electorate, so it is unlikely that Jewish votes will make a difference in the outcome of the general presidential election. Despite the numbers, however, Jews have traditionally played a disproportionate role in American politics since they are politically and financially active.

Both campaigns say they will place a high priority on reaching put to Jews.

In fund raising, as in vote gathering, the campaigns follow two paths in their appeals to the Jewish community - Bush has to demonstrate his worthiness and Gore has to maintain his.

The Gore campaign Bays the vice president's meeting last month with the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations was nothing put of the ordinary and Gore will continue his long-standing commitment to the Jewish community.

"The vice president's entire career has been marked by dialogue with the Jewish community," says Peter Ragene, a Gore spokesman.

Gore doesn't need to change his strategy to secure Jewish support for the general election in November, agrees Democratic pollster Mark Mellman, who says that Gore's record on Israel and domestic policies jibe with those of most Jewish voters. ' In both 1992 and 1996, the Clinton-Gore team won about 80 percent of the Jewish vote. Bush, on the other hand, faces a more uphill battle for Jewish support.

Jewish Republicans number an estimated 15 percent of the overall Jewish electorate, and many Republican candidates have trouble attracting Jewish supporters, who are traditionally liberal or moderate on social issues.

But the number of Jews who vote Republican can fluctuate a good deal depending on the candidate. ' Republicans received the highest percentage of Jewish votes in 1956, when 40% voted for Dwight Eisenhower, in 1980, Ronald Reagan won 39%.

Bush's speech at the Simon Wiesenthal Center's Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles last month may have been a signal to the Jewish community that he is reaching out.

"It was a first and important step," says Bush spokeswoman Mindy Tucker. "It sets the tone for the rest of the campaign."

Bush has been stressing the themes of religious tolerance and unity lately, and may use this issue to attract more Jewish support.

Despite his lack of experience in foreign policy, Bush has tried to put forth some strong positions on issues relating to Israel. He has sought to portray as too aggressive - and a problem for Israel - the current administration's desire to conclude an IsraeliPalestinian peace deal, despite the Israeli government's general support of the Clinton-Gore approach.

Bush has also said that if elected, he would immediately begin work on moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

But appealing to Jewish hawks and attacking Gore could be a tricky road for Bush, considering the small number of hawkish voters in the Jewish community and Gore's strong pro-Israel record.

Even drawing attention to his positions on Israel may be counterproductive, say some analysts, given his father's decreasing support among Jewish voters.

In 1988, the candidate's father, former President Bush, won more than 30 percent of the Jewish vote, but he only received 12 percent in his 1992 reelection bid. The decrease was seen in part as Jewish Republican disapproval over the Bush administration's policies toward Israel.

Some Republicans fear the legacy of the older Bush will follow the younger. But others believe the Texas governor also has positions on domestic issues -- such as education, taxes and the military - that will appeal to Jewish voters.

(Continued on page 13)

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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.

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Uoyd Roltsteln Chairman Carol Katzman Editor-in-Chief Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Larry Axelrod Advertising Manager Barbara Frankel Rocky Stem Sales representatives Jenlra (Sadobky) Stewart Bookkeeper Jen Gate* Production Assistant George Schaplra Voluntoer

I couldn't let another day go by without writing to let you know you provided a most memorable issue pf the Press this Passover for (us) to enjoy.

You have made the past come alive as I read through the family histories you selected to write about. The Simon family story was particularly interesting to me and my family; B.A. Simon was my husband's uncle. But for him, none of the members of his sister Geta's children, or her family, would have been able to come to Omaha to make a new life for themselves. The story was beautifully written and all in our family took great pride in going back in time and remembering.

Also, as a lifelong resident of Omaha, I did enjoy reading about good friends and their stories. Yes, it was beautiful and it was an issue that belongs in my memory book for all to share. Congratulations to all!

Louise Abrahamson To the Editor: As a life member in three veteran organizations (Jewish War Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans), I have become disturbed by the lack of meeting attendance of our Post #260. At age 83,1 am aware that age, interests and family responsibilities have priority.

I wish to unofficially notify the members that our commander has been called to active duty and Post #260 will not have any meetings until his return. This and lack of attendance causes us the inability to elect officers or to replace those who have died.

I find this a sad state of affairs. Membership (is) vital to preserve the traditions of Post #260, whose very existence was nurtured by their patriotism to serve with honor and respect for their homeland.

Jacque Dolgoff To the Editor: We have had more calls on the article (which appeared in the Passover issue of the Jewish Press); some from other cities and from non-Jews, as well. You have captured something in the writing that made us sound like good business people as well as being part of the community.

We try to live up to those standards, but you put it on paper in such a way that many people were moved to call us and express those sentiments. We have had many articles done on our company, but none done as well as yours in my opinion.

You got it right and we once again say, thank you.'

Steve Simon, Vice-president, Omaha Steaks JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Fred Tichauer, Vice-Chairman; Joanie Jacobson, Secretary; Howard Silber, Treasurer; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Dutch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Gary Kudym; Steve Levinger, Linda Saltzman; George Schapiro; 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.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Chinese-Israeli relations checkered by U.S. pressures

Our Man

vehicles and armored cars for sale, no questions asked, ' Perhaps Washington was disturbed that Israel got the contract for the sale to China; rather than an American firm. Remember how disturbed the Americans were when El Al originally decided to split its plane acquisition order between Boeing and the Internet? y '. , ''I.;' ••'••'•.'• > ' . ,v '"• Young Yannai Go?, an Israeli with British Aerobus? curiosity, decided to find out. As he But; the objection to Israel's, sale reported to Bamachaneh, the weekly to China, reminded us of a previous for Israeli military personnel, he uti- chapter in history. It is worth lized a search engine and entered the recalling.

The People's Republic of China was words "atomic warhead." He was connected with a location of the U.S. proclaimed in 1949 and was generally Defense Department which sells sur- shunned by the western world. When plus military equipment, . and David Hacohen was Israeli ambaslaunched his query. The reply was sador to Burma (1953-55) he made immediate: "Dear Sir, one used atom- contact with Chinese diplomats, and ic war head (MKT 1115) is awaiting in 1955 even led an Israeli governyou at the military base in San ment mission to China. It was clear Antonio, Texas. Please send your that China was prepared, even anxious to establish diplomatic relations price offer."

In other words, it was only a matter with Israel as an entering wedge to of price. Goz did not pursue the mat- further relations with the West.

The U.S. State Department, which ter, but from further exploration on the right sites, he learned that he was giving the cue to a world-wide could get free advice on how to con- boycott of China, threatened dire struct his own hydrogen bomb in his action against Israel if the move went through. Israel had no choice but to bathtub at home.

The Israeli should not have been rescind its offer, under American surprised. Almost four years ago, the pressure. The Chinese were furious, U.S. News and World report made a and for decades refused to have anysurvey of what was available through thing to do with Israel.

Yet it was not long before the clithe various official U.S. military surplus agencies. The name of the game mate in Washington changed. The is business. Sometimes even brand U.S. supported China's admission to new equipment finds its way to the the U.N. in 1971, and a year later, market. In 1995, the Pentagon earned President Nixon visited China, fol$320 million from sales of such items- lowed by establishment of full diploas submarine parts, radar equipment, matic relations between the two counattack helicopters, missile launchers tries, as other lands followed suit.

Only Israel, which had been suband the like. The market is well known to enter- servient to American pressure, prising agents, and huge quantities of remained on the outside, as China, military materiel is purchased and not forgetting the original indignity, shipped around the world, without refused to have anything to do with anyone checking where it is all going. it. Private business relations flourIndeed, China is known to be one of ished, but it was only within the past the major destinations. Automatic ten years that China finally agreed to and semi-automatic weapons have accept formal relations, culminating long been available. Under the head- most recently in the unprecedented ing "olive drab," a potential purchaser six-day visit to Israel by Chinese can find a wide variety of military President Jiang Zemin.

Haifa-Official U.S. objections to Israel's sale of an advanced radar system to China sound rather hollow in; view of the fact that America itself is today the biggest purveyor of military equipment to the rest of the world. Is it true that anything is available to anyone on the U.S. sales sites on the

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May 5, 2000

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The Jewish Press will feature "A SALUTE TO Year 2000 GRADS" in GRAD the June 2 issue. Photos are due by May 22...no exceptions! All Jewish graduating high school seniors are urged to send their senior pictures along with the following: Name Parents —: High S c h o o l — Plans after graduation

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Organizations Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday in the auditorium of the JCC. Exercise at 10:15 a m . in the auditorium.

Try your luck at bingo with Eileen Reiner at 10cl5. ajn. Bring articles to share for the "YES Talk" discussion group at 11 am,. Following lunch at noon, Jane Kause from the YWCA Every Woman Matters Outreach Program will talk on Breast Cancer Awareness. For transportation, call 3304272.

Reminder: Mah Jongg Club will meet W e d n e s d a y , May 10. For information, call Charlotte Kaplan at 551-5658.

Dale Chihuly: Inside & Out-world renowned artist, brings his dazzling glass art to the Joslyn Art Museum on Thursday, May 18. Cost is $6.50, and includes admission, tour with docent and transportation. Deadline is May 11.

Nebraska Humanities Council Speaker Dr. Dan Holtz will speak on 'Nebraska Through Song and Story1 on Monday, May 22. Lunch will be served at noon. Join students from the Friedel Jewish Academy and Child Development Center for this and one-of-a-kind show. Special thanks to the Nebraska Humanities Council and the Schrager Foundation for their support. Deadline is May 15..Make reservations with Maggie Conti at 334-6521.

Deadline for Bluffs Run Casino on May 25 is May

BBYO'ers attend SRC

by Julie Kushner

The BBYO Mid America Spring Regional Convention (SRC) was recently held at Camp Sabra in Lake of the Ozarks. After a six-and-a-halfhour bus ride, the 35 Omaha BBYO'ers joined friends from Kansas City and St. Louis. All totaled, there were about 220 BBYO'ers at SRC. With a mix of wonderful weather and good programming, everyone had a terrific time.

Convention started with a concert starring Jewish performer Rick Recht. He performed for a couple of hours, with our own Mendel Kurland joining for a solo during one of his songs.

We spent the rest of the weekend participating in business meetings, programs based around the theme, "Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus," services, a dance and some free time.

BBYO'ers were also asked to bring a new toy with them to convention. The toys were collected and taken back to St. Louis to be donated to area children's facilities and programs.

Special recognition goes to the B'nai B'rith Henry Monsky Lodge, which makes convention possible for many Omaha BBYO'ers by assisting with scholarship requests.

WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet Thursday at the JCC. Exercise starts at 10:15 a.m. ; bingo starts at 10:30 a.m. Bring a dairy sack lunch to eat at 11:30 a.m. in room 10. At noon, come enjoy the movie Music of the Heart, featuring Meryl Streep, in the Blumkin Home auditorium. Popcorn will be served. For transportation, call 330-4272.

RUSSIAN CLUB Members will meet May 12 at the JCC. Exercise starts at 10 a.m. Come celebrate Mother's Day with a special meal at 11. At noon, enjoy a Russian-speaking movie.

VISIONS Membership Luncheon Meeting is Friday, May 19,12:30 pan., at Caniglia's Venice Inn. Cost is $7 per person. Members will be entertained with a preview of the hit musical Afy Fair Lady by several leading performers from the Omaha Community Playhouse. For reservations, mail form with check

by May 12 to Marvin Gerber, 9318 Walnut St., Omaha, NE 68124.

Don't miss the exhibit of Dale Chihuly: Inside & Out at the Joslyn Art Museum on Wednesday, May 24. Cost is $3.50; free for Joslyn members. At 11:30 aan., dine at the Joslyn Le Cafe Durham (an a la carte lunch buffet will be on your own). At 1 p.m., tour the glass exhibit with docent. For reservations, mail form by May 17 to Maggie Conti, 323 S. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154.

BBYO'ers on the bus to Camp Sabra, from left: Rebecca Murow, Ariel Shukert, Anne Muskin, Leah Raful and Shane Conn.

The girls of Ediar BBG #710 who attended SRC were: Ariel Shukert, left, Jen Cooper, Kym Pitlor, Becky Sternberg, Leah Raful, Rebecca Murow and Anne Muskin.

HADASSAH Council Bluffs Hadassah will hold its annual luncheon and Linen Shower on Wednesday, May 10, noon, at Lakeshore Country Club.

Marty Ricks, Foundation Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, and Dr. Speedy Zweiback will relate some of the exciting recent experiences while visiting Russia and Israel.

For reservations, call Edythe Krasne at 3239172, or Sally Telpner at 322-5607.

BETH EL MEN'S CLUB Ben Nelson, former governor of the State of Nebraska and candidate for the United States Senate, will speak at the Men's Club breakfast this Sunday, May 7, at 10 am. He will focus on Israel and is expected to use his remarks as his 'Position on Israel' for his campaign. Cost is $2 for members, $5 for non-members.

Ariel Shukert and Michael Parsow hang out before a meal.

May 5,2000

NCJW to install board, honor volunteers

in the News

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 7

SECURITY EQUIPMENT INC.

The Omaha Symphony announced the appointment of Franklin M. Fine as its Director of

by Pam Friedlander Development. Fine is owner and principal of the Installation of officers and the board of directors Fine Consulting Group of Albuquerque, NM. He and awards presentations will take place at the served as the interim director of the Stockton (CA) Omaha Section of the National Council of Jewish Symphony from 1998-99, and on the board of the Women annual installation meeting on New Mexico Symphony and as its chairman from Wednesday, May 10, 7 p.m., at the Omaha 1996-98.

Marriott Hotel in Regency.

Fleming announced that Jack Baker is retiring Carol Bloch, Debbie Friedman and Susie Norton will be honored with the Hannah G. Solomon from both Baker's Supermarkets as Chief Executive Award, the Distinguished Service Award, and the Officer and as a member of Fleming's Board of Directors as of June, 2000. Baker's operates 16 Emerging Leader Award, respectively. .The 2000-2001 slate includes: President, Beth supermarkets in Nebraska. Jack and his brother, Friedman; Community Service Vice-presidents, Bob, began their grocery business working with Stacie Brodkey and Elizabeth Cohen; Public their parents, Abe and Helen Baker, who founded Affairs/Education Vice-presidents, Ann Moshman Baker's in 1926.

Baker's also announced the opening of their and Susie Norton; Membership Vice-president, Jennifer Meyerson; Fundraising Vice-presidents, 68,500-square-foot store in Pepperwood Village, Kim Noddle and Deb Marburg; Public Relations 156th and West Dodge Road.

Vice-president, Pam Monsky.

Alan S. Tipp graduated from the University of Other officers to be installed include: Treasurer, l Cheryl Lerner; Financial Secretary, Jill Baron; Kansas School of Fine Member Services Secretary, Iris Ricks; Recording Arts with a bachelor's I Secretary, Debbie Friedman; Parliamentarian and degree in industrial design. He has accepted I Bylaws, Kim Novak. a position as senior product designer for Big Bang Products in Baltimore, MD. Alan is the son of I Marilyn and Steve Tipp.

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For more information on how to participate, call Amy Yantzer at 346-0771.

Chairwoman Patricia Newman, left, plans the annual installation with committee members Robin Spindler, center, and Linda Novak. For more information, call 393-8787.

Directors include: Beth Cohen, Pam Friedlander, Karin Levine, Lori Miller, Patricia Newman and Heidi Schneiderman.

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Members of the Nominating Committee from the general membership include Katherine Finnegan, Susan Rothholz and Amee Zetzman; alternates include Debbie Brown and Carol Katzman.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

Black-Jewish group breaks matzah together at seder

by Gary Javitch

Over the years, it has been so easy to forget that in another era, Jews and Blacks often walked a common road and shared many similar experiences. Now, sitting at the Temple Israel seder table, the assembled group was both unique and unusual.

Participants represented segments of the black and white communities. Multi-denominational, the biracial congregation consisted of different age groups, widely varying professions and very diverse backgrounds. Yet, despite their differences, they were all of common purpose.

They came together to seek knowledge and u n d e r s t a n d i n g / T h e y gathered to celebrate Passover at a seder that was an outgrowth of the "Black-Jewish Dialogue."

At the head of the U-shaped configuration of tables, Bishop Robert Tyler, the African-American pastor of the Church of the Living God, sat with his wife, next to Rabbi Aryeh and Elyce Azriel of Temple Israel.

The Seder It was the fifth annual Black-Jewish Seder. At its inception, back in 1996, only 14 people participated.

"Tonight," according to Magda Peck, one of the Temple organizers, "they numbered 130." Peck, along with Lonnie Michaels, the self-described "coconveners," welcomed the assembled to Temple Israel.

Later, when Rabbi Azriel held up the matzah and said, "This is the bread of affliction," he began the Passover narrative, recounting the traditional story of the Jewish exodus from Egypt.

"The story we are about to tell is a story of how a broken people was made whole by freedom," the rabbi read, highlighting one of the special themes of A Common Road to Freedom: A Passover Haggadah.

The Haggadah The chronicle in this haggadah, however, was not traditional.

Why was it different?

It was different because on all other seder nights, the text contains passages from major Jewish thinkers or rabbis, or from other parts of the bible.

On this night, the Common Road Haggadah contained selections not only from the Torah, but also from noted white and African-American authors, learned rabbis and black clerics. The latter included remarks from the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., and Bishop Desmond Tutu.

And on this night, the group read passages of hope and inspiration not only from Anne Franks' diary but also from Maya Angelou's poetry.

They used a haggadah that emphasized the similarities of the backgrounds of the Black-Jewish participants. And like the traditional text, this story described the suffering of slavery and the struggle for freedom.

(Writer's note: The Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism prepared the text while Leonard Fein and Rabbi David Saperstein edited it. Grants from the Marjorie Kovler institute for Black/Jewish relations and the Barbra Streisand Program for Black/Jewish Cooperation funded the writing and publication.)

(Continued on page 10)

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If you think the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home is a place j u s t for people to live, you haven't met Dandy, a poodle, or Kidily, a domestic short-haired cat. They've been living at the Blumkin Home since last fall, along with about 10 fish, approximately 15 birds and one guinea pig. Dandy, Kidily and the guinea pig were adopted from the Nebraska Humane Society. The others were either purchased or donated by residents' families or staff members who work at the Blumkin Home.

Initial year costs for the poodle, including preparing a proper environment within the Home, are funded by the Kavich/Zetsman families. After the initial year, cost of medical bills, food, treats, toys and grooming for Dandy will be underwritten by the Lazar Kavich Endowment Fund, established in his memory by his family.

Rose Mandel is one of the many RBJH residents who enjoy interacting with Dandy, the Home's dog, explained Jenefer Ambrose, Activities Director.

Judy and Jack Baker have donated-food for the other animals as well as plants to develop the Blumkin Home's Eden environment, explained Barbara Gottlieb, Director of Jewish Senior Services. For more than a year, she said, pets, plants and children have added to the Home's "Garden of Eden" environment.

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"They've been building relationships and trust," she said.

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May 5,2000

Page 9'

Confession of Iranian Jew sparks many new concerns

by Michael J. Jordan

NEW YORK (JTA)~Iranian hard-liners are showing no signs of backing down in the trial of 13 Iranian Jews accused of spying for Israel.

However, what remains unclear~in light of a state-televised confession Monday of the alleged leader, Hamid "Dani" Tefileen-is whether Tefileen will take the fall for the entire group, or if his confession will provide ammunition for punishing some or all of the accused.

• To the despair of family, friends and American Jewish advocates of the Iran 13, no representatives of the media, human rights organizations or Jewish groups were allowed to monitor Monday's first-day proceedings.

The reason, said officials of Iran's Revolutionary Court, was fear for "national security."

In this and all Iranian court cases, the judge also acts as investigator, prosecutor and jury, which observers say is clearly a recipe for judicial abuse.

Monday's hearing-which had been postponed from April 13 until after Passover—did little to assuage that concern.

In his confession, Tefileen, a devoutly religious man from the southern city of Shiraz, admitted to visiting Israel in 1994.

Iran has denounced Israel as its archenemy.

After their arrest more than one year ago, the Iran 13-including religious and community leaders and one teen-ager-were also accused of spying for the United States. Only Israel was mentioned Monday.

Interviewed by state television after Monday's hearing, Tefileen reportedly also admitted to being trained and paid by the Mossad, the Israeli intelligence agency. After the hearing, the authorities assailed him of carrying out this work for "the love of Israel'-and for the money.

Israel, for its part, steadfastly denies the link.

"We don't have anything new to say from what we have said in the past," Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman Aviv Sharon told reporters Monday in

Israel.

"We don't have any connection with any of those who stand trial now in Iran."

But it is the Israeli stamp in Tefileen's passport that seems to be, from Iran's perspective, the smok. ing gun for the entire case, said Malcolm Hoenlein, executive vice chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.

"Without him, there's no case," said Hoenlein, who has been closely monitoring developments taking place in Iran. "Getting him to confess was crucial."

Tefileen has not yet been sentenced, though state television said he had asked for clemency.

Hearings for the remaining 12 are likely to continue during the next two weeks.

Their fate is virtually impossible to predict, said Hoenlein, as Iranian judiciary officials have not yet produced any evidence. At the same time, they routinely flout Iranian law and demonstrate a blatant disregard for international public opinion, he said.

Iran has been universally condemned for what is widely viewed as a show trial against the 13 Jews.

Why, then, did Tefileen confess?

Observers believe that Tefileen, an impoverished trader, may have been facing other trumped-up charges, like drug possession or smuggling.

He may have been offered leniency if he confessed to the spying charge. Or perhaps the freedom of his brother, Omid, was dangled before him.

Omid is one of three accused Jews who was released on bail in February, and is likely to be pardoned.

Either way, said Hoenlein, Tefileen and the rest are innocent.

"If this doesn't give all the appearances of a setup, I don't know what is," said Hoenlein.

"Listen, you sit in jail for a year, in conditions no one knows about. How can we judge someone in

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Despite the Iranian authorities' apparent selfsatisfaction at having their man, Tefileen's courtappointed lawyer, Shirzad Rahmani, told the Associated Press that the confession is not enough to convict. .-.'•.'

Under Iranian law, Rahmani noted, the state has to prove its case with evidence.

"There may have been confessions, there may have been an intention to spy, there may have been several trips to Israel, and there may have been payments," he told the A.P. "But if information damaging to Iran and beneficial to Israel was not actually exchanged, there can be no charge of espionage."

Until now, U.S. advocates have pursued quiet diplomacy, marshaling support from many governments and human rights groups to release the.; detainees-or at least to ensure a fair trial.

But having seen little progress, the advocates are now taking a more high-profile approach.

On the diplomatic front, Hoenlein said he expects the U.S. Congress to pass a bipartisan resolution that will denounce Iran for its detention of the Jews.

Governments around the world are being asked to pass similar resolutions, he added, while various leaders—including some from Arab and Muslim countries-have indicated they will step up efforts to pressure Tehran.

At the grass-roots level, vigils, but not street demonstrations, are being planned at various locations in the United States, said Hoenlein.

Nationwide, rabbis across the religious spectrum agreed to recite special prayers during Passover. In Los Angeles, the Council of Iranian American Jewish Organizations held a special commemoration on Sunday to mark the one-year anniversary of the arrests of 10 of the Iran 13.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

B'nai B'rith Installations You've probably noticed that Sunday, May 14, is I Mother's Day. It's the day we're all supposed to pay also particular attention to the lady who deserves that kind of attention every day.

Hebrew It's the day florists, jewelers, candy makers, Lettering •v ' . . greeting card people and retail merchants in gener' al believe was invented just for them, The day peo12019 Blondo 492-9730 ple are expected to buy a gift for the woman they call Mom, Ma, Mama, Madre or maybe Mommy.

The woman may have earned the title many years ago, or possibly just recently, but like many other American inventions, this holiday is intended to focus on a special person.

She might be very young and really new at the LJ.OCKSMIT! business of parenting, or she might have already celebrated many decades of Mother's Days, but no matter which, she remains the woman who, Excellent Quality Construction undoubted, had the earliest (and maybe most lastResidential and Commercial ing) influence on your life and mine.

She's the one who taught you everything from how to tie your own shoes to the polite way to address your elders. She's the one who went to the programs at school, which were always held at the CONTRACTOR most inconvenient times, because you were participating in some way.

402-331-0888 She's probably the one who stood (all five feet, two 11045 "O" St. Omaha, NE 68137 inches) between you and your dad when you were certain you were in mortal danger; she's also the one who took you shopping. Shopping for what? For some unmentionable item you wanted desperately but didCONTEMPORARY n't want to be involved in its purchase.

It was your mom who went to school in response to a note from the teacher, and I have a hunch that's who signed more than one report card which Far Professionally Fitted Eyewear may have caused the house to rock on its foundaby BOARD CERTIFIED OPTICIANS tion if made too public.

Maybe she's the one who taught you to drive-or Fashionable, Functional maybe she's the one who sent you to a professional and Affordable! instructor to learn. If you're a "baby boomer," it's a 210 Regency Parkway • 392-0170 cinch it was her car you nearly totalled on more 141 Doctor's Building North, 4242 Farnam » 554-1315 than one occasion!

If you're old enough to be the parent of those boomers, you probably rode on more than one ' streetcar or bus with her, because she didn't have a car. She held your hand as you stretched your short legs to climb into that old streetcar, and you sat next to her on those straw-like seats, likely going "downtown." from JELS Wasn't it your mom who took you to the public library and introduced you to that wonderful (Jewish Educational world? I know there are times, no matter what & Library Services) your age, you hear her voice in your ear saying 333 So. 132nd St. anything from "chew with your mouth closed" to "don't we say thank you anymore?"

333-6445 My mom, whose memory is truly a blessing, had a favorite expression she used on me. "Ladies don't I do that" was an important part of her general philosophy on child raising. With perpetually skinned Balebusta of the Month knees and straight-as-a-poker hair, I didn't much resemble a "lady," but she was determined to set the ground rules.

Your mom was too, right? Whether your mom VEGETARIAN CHOPPED LIVER , was (or is) a modern young woman with an envi[ able education involving graduate degrees, or a 2 large onions I woman from a more modest background with only 1 cup lentils, washed her innate good sense to guide her, she knew her 2 cups water 1 responsibilities when it came to child rearing.

1 cup walnuts Yes, we're talking about very special people here, 4 Tblsp. Canola oil folks. Nobody will question the significant role of Salt, pepper, Lawrey's Seasoning Salt and the father in the family-that's a given, of course. garlic powder to taste But, on the other hand, who could possibly argue about the influence of the mother?

Saute Cool lentils in water approximately I can honestly say I probably have reason to 20-30 minutes until water is absorbed. think about my own mother every day. She was, Don't let it burn. Saute onions in oil. Put as somebody said of her recently, a force to be dealt all in blender or food processor. This can with. She believed in doing the best she could for be put in a mold and be served unmolded both her loved ones and for everybody else with with crackers around it. whom she had contact.

She believed in giving, whether it was traditional Balebusta of the Month tzedakah or a cooked meal for somebody who need• • • • - . ' - . sponsored by ed it. She always gave of herself, unselfishly and with a full heart. She taught by example, and nobody ever had a better role model. if you're lucky enough to have your mom, count your blessings. If not, you have countless wonderful memories. She did, and most of them involved you.

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Steve Riekes, left, presented a plaque to outgoing President of B'nai B'rith Henry Monsky Lodge, Adam J a c o b s , and i n s t a l l e d Gary Javitch as incoming President.

Black/Jewish seder (Continued from page 8) Songs and Friendship It was an interactive seder, with participants taking turns being the lead reader. During the break for the meal, the choirs of both congregations shared their traditional songs and respective music. The choirs were not the only ones singing, though. Throughout the seder, the assembly sang time-honored verses, such as Dayeinu and Chad Gadya.

Holding hands and swaying to the final song, the conclave sang We Shall Overcome. The seder concluded with a blessing from Bishop Tyler for peace • and understanding as a feeling of warmth and friendship bathed the congregation.

Temple Israel President Paul Epstein observed, "What a fabulous way to make new friends" and at the same time "share a meal based on our heritage."

Origins The Black-Jewish Dialogue, as it came to be called, had its initial origins in the common interests of a number of several Temple members. Later it extended beyond Temple Israel.

For David Jacobson, a "dialogue" founder and managing partner at Kutak Rock law firm, it grew out of his friendship with an African-American who happened to be the U.S. Attorney in Omaha.

For a long time, Jacobson and he had discussed racial issues from their own perspectives.

For Peck, a UNMC professor in pediatricB, it stemmed from a desire to promote understanding and better relationships between the Jewish and black communities. Their desire to be a part of the solution to the uneasy racial tension in Omaha found a home in Rabbi Azriel's social action committee.

A number of activities took place; interest multiplied. Soon, a monthly lunch group formed with between 15 and 25 people meeting regularly, frequently at Jacobson's law firm. During this time, the rabbi asked him to lead a Black-Jewish discussion during the break on Yom Kippur.

Eddie Staton, founder of Mad Dads, a North Omaha community action group, joined in the dialogue. "As an admirer of Rabbi Azriel," he said, "it was easy to become involved."

Other African-Americans in the group include some well-known faces: Brenda Council, Bishop Robert Tyler, Carole Woods Harris, Deborah Mabry Strong, Ben Gray and Carolyn Green .

In addition to the Jewish participants named in the story, some other members of the community involved are Joe Ginsburg, Gary and Sally Kaplan, Gloria Kaslow and Larry Raful.

"The real test of the seder and dialogue's success," asserted Peck, "is. what comes after the seder."

DO YOUR DUTY...

May 5,2000

My ordeal with Irving ., (Continued from page 1) In 1984, he blamed the cancelation of his book contract on Jewish organizations and cautioned that "they will live long to regret it."

In 1998, he compared American Jews' professional success to Jews in Weimar Germany and warned that such success might give "rise to the. . .same dire consequences as happened in Nazi Germany."

Regarding a Holocaust memorial in Baltimore, he asked, "Why do we need a memorial. . .we haven't done anything to the Jews yet."

I never anticipated the havoc this fight would wreak with my professional and personal life. At the post-verdict news conference, I was asked: "Given all that has happened, would you write the same things about Irving?"

The answer was, "No." Were I writing my book now, I would write even more harshly about him. This legal action, which he instigated, allowed my lawyers to demand the release of reams of his personal papers documenting his activities. We know far more about him than we ever did before. We hoisted him on his own petard.

I fought him because I could not run from evil, even when the evil is rooted in nonsense, for nonsense can cause significant damage. The Protocols of the Elders of Zion are proven forgeries that are based on a ludicrous premise. Nonetheless, they continue to circulate. The Holocaust teaches that evildoers must be stopped early, before they can inflict much damage. Hitler was far less of a foe in the early 1930s than in the 1940s.

So, too, deniers must be stopped now.

Though I would never have placed myself in the arena with him, once dragged in, I had no option but to fight. I have consistently refused to debate deniers. I have declined appearances on talk shows and news programs because they entailed appearing with a denier, giving the notion that there are two sides to this issue.

I have not yet fully unpacked what it meant to be a defendant in a libel suit that brought together the Holocaust, free speech and historiography. I shall never forget as I entered the court on the first day being told by survivors, "We are counting on you."

Nor shall I forget being enveloped after the trial by a man outside the courtroom who said, "My parents.died in Auschwitz. In their name, thank you."

An experienced litigant, Irving may have assumed I would "settle," i.e. pay some symbolic figure, apologize to him and agree to the withdrawal of my book from publication.

Two years prior to my book's publication, Irving described what happens to defendants in libel actions, "There comes a very expensive stage for .both parties known as discovery. . .discovery is an ugly phase, for plaintiff and defendant, when you face each other across a lawyer's table. . .and you say, 'I want to see your documents and you can see mine.' And at that stage, usually the defendants crack up and cop out."

I was wrong to laugh 20 years ago when I first heard about deniers. I was wrong to laugh when I opened the letter informing me that Irving was considering a suit. And I was entirely wrong to assume that it was just a nuisance. It was far more than that.

But David Irving was far more wrong than I if he thought that I would "crack up and cop out."

I did neither. I fought this charge with all my strength. It was a demanding battle. Yet, on some level, it has also been a surprisingly rewarding endeavor. It taught me much about evil, but it also taught me about goodness, friendship and about doing the right thing.

That too is part of this story.

Deborah E. Lipstadt is Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish and Holocaust Studies at Emory University. On April 11, a British court ruling against Irving, who had sued Lipstadt and Penguin Books, the publisher of her book, Denying the Holocaust: The Growing Assault on Truth and Memory.

Art exhibit opens in JCC Gallery Members of Associated Artists of Omaha will exhibit their artwork in the Gallery of the Jewish Community Center through May 31, according to the exhibition co-chairman Isabel Cohen. The show is a juried exhibit.

A reception is planned for Sunday, May 21, 24 p.m. Gallery hours are 8 a.m.-lO p.m., Monday through Thursday; 1-7 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. on Friday and Sunday.

For more information, call 345-5387.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 11

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Jews at the Frontier, Accommodation, Identity, C o n f l i c t , edited by Sander L. Gilman and Milton Shain (Univ. of Illinois Press, $21.95)

Reviewed by Oliver B. Pollak

Sander Gilman of the University of Chicago is one of the most prolific authors in America. Here he co-edits a work on Jews of the fringes, edges and margins of human settlement. The editors go against traditional thinking as they analyze this different Diaspora. The Diaspora, Galut and exile rather that being an inferior existence to being in Israel, should be granted co-equal status.

This new Jewish history, avoiding the center/periphery model which usually discusses New York and Israel, suggests that self identity as Jews carries both internal and external identity.

This novelty is haunted by the historical example of assimilated German Jews in the first half of the 20th century, imbued with German Kultur, German language, poets, philosophy and music, leaving them unprotected and unprepared for the radical changes in politics brought on by Hitler and the Nazis.

This study is based on a conference held in Cape Town in 1996. Scholars from nine countries presented 16 essays that include Texas, Alaska, South Africa, Australia, Brazil, Quebec and China. This somewhat technical study offers a new twist on the Diaspora.

While interpretation is the volumes' main contribution, it is also filled with interesting facts such as how Australia's Jewish population grew from the late 1780s convict settlement to its current Jewish presence of 145,000.

A copy of this book may be obtained from the Dorothy and Myer Kripke Jewish Federation Library.

League of Women Voters opens website The League of Women Voters Education Fund announced the availability of election information online through the Democracy Network (DNet) at: www.dnet.org, according to affiliate manager Beth Goble.

DNet brings candidate statements, contact information and voting assistance directly to the public.

The service is free to both candidates and voters.

"The purpose of the League is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government," said Lois Poppe, President of League of Women Voters of Nebraska.

"We believe that citizens require knowledge as well as the ability and will to act. DNet offers a new, effective, easily accessed way for citizens to receive voter information and take their responsibility for good government seriously."

DNet offers pages on candidates, ballot measures, voting information, media, campaign finance, and links. The website is non-partisan.

For voters who are not online but seek information beyond media coverage and campaign mailers, many libraries, schools and community centers offer public Internet access.

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Page 12 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

David... Goliath... Grapes:.. Stalactites... Choirs -••••"••••' , v - ;.:::'•'

Charming detours through Judea's Wine Country

by Simon Campbell

Most visitors to Israel streak along Highway 1, the 40-mile expressway linking Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, in about 45 minutes. Buses do it, cars do it, trucks do it, even tourist motor coaches do it. The six-lane highway from Tel Aviv crosses the Plain of Sharon, skirts Ben Gurion International Airport, then rises through the Valley of Ayalon, where, 3,500 years ago, Joshua bade the sun stand still. 25 minutes after leaving Tel Aviv, the highway enters the steep Shaar Hagai Valley and snakes up to Jerusalem, 2,800 feet above sea-level, in a mere twenty minutes.

Drivers and passengers look eagerly left and right at the hills reforested with pine trees, at the valleys, farms and villages. And they marvel at the green fields reaching to the horizon. But only rarely do they give thought to taking one of the exits off the' highway to see what lies beyond. Pity.

Exiting Highway 1 at the Shaar Hagai interchange and winding south along Route 38, travelers arrive at Kibbutz Tzora. Founded in the 1940s, Tzora has a variety of industries, including a burgeoning boutique winery that produces excellent dry red and white wines. Visitors shop for the kibbutz's excellent fruits, vegetables, breads and cheeses and also tour this flower-filled cooperative village that dates back to the heyday of the pioneers who made the desert bloom during Zionism's early years.

THE MASSIVE COLUMBARIUM Twelve miles beyond Tzora is Bet Guvrin, whose "bell caves" were built for storage some 1,500 years ago. Some of the caves are as little as four feet high, some as tall as 50 feet, with dramatic rays of sunlight coursing through domed ceilings to warm the frigid chalk interior. Nearby, the city of Maresha was a substantial metropolis 2,500 years ago and the excavations of today's Tel Maresha reveal remains of Israelite, Greek and Roman cities. Its enormous underground chamber, the Columbarium, is particularly impressive, a vast vault in the shape of two crosses, whose walls are lined with niches believed to be originally for housing pigeons.

DAVID AND GOLIATH WERE HERE Returning from Bet Guvrin to Tzora, Route 375 swings east into the Valley of Elan, where the young David slew the giant Goliath with his slingshot three millennia ago in a battle between the Israelites and Philistines. The valley is calm and green and the Elah brook still gurgles as it has for thirty centuries and more. Recent research at Beersheba's Ben Gurion University of the Negev has posited that the 9*10" Goliath (6 cubits tall, the Bible tells us) undoubtedly suffered from a tumor of the pituitary gland, a common symptom of

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gigantism, that impairs the vision of abnormally massive people. As visitors stroll through the valley and recall the event that helped make David a monarch of exalted status, they can ponder whether Goliath's neurological disease was the source of the young shepherd's victory or whether it was the intervention of divine will, as tradition-

the good thief)...hence the name, Latrun.

From Latrun, driving southwest along Route 3 brings travelers to Kibbutz Tal Shahar. The Soreq Winery opened here in 1994 and has evolved into one of the Judean Wine Route's best wineries, producing dry wines from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay grapes. The grounds of the kib-

JUDEAN HILLS, ISRAEL; The Sorek Stalactite Cave was discovered accidentally in 1967 during blasting at a nearby stone quarry. One of the world's most perfect stalactite caves, it contains examples of every kind of stalactite and stalagmite formation known on the planet. ally assumed...or perhaps a conjunction of the two. butz make a delightful picnic stop: buy wines, local Just before returning to Highway 1, make a right cheeses and fresh bread from the winery store. and arrive at one of Israel's most spectacular naturNearer to Jerusalem, the village of Abu Ghosh sits al wonders. Discovered accidentally in 1967 during north of the expressway. The hamlet's church, built blasting at a nearby quarry, the Sorek Cave is one in 1142, is one of Israel's most beautiful Crusader of the world's most perfect stalactite caves. Smaller buildings, and is the location of regular classical and than many in other countries, the Sorek Cave nev- choral concerts that both charm and inspire. Abu ertheless contains every kind of stalactite and sta- Ghosh's Monastery of the Ark recalls the site where lagmite formation known on the planet. Israel's the Ark of the Covenant rested for 20 years before National Parks Authority has garnered internation- being brought by King David to Jerusalem, 15 miles al commendation for the beauty and subtlety of the to the east. A prosperous Arab town, Abu Ghosh lighting installed in the cave, which permits the makes a popular excursion for Jerusalemites attractnatural colors and shapes to be seen at their best as ed to its Middle Eastern restaurants, as well as to visitors clamber up and down its wooden staircases the Elvis Inn, a fun restaurant and shrine celebratand carefully constructed pathways. Because of the ing the life of Elvis Presley. Uhuh. Elvis Presley! The formations' delicacy, photography is only permitted Holy Land is full of surprises. one morning a week (Fridays).

The Crusader Church and the Monastery of the Back on Highway 1, twenty miles from Tel Aviv, an Ark are the locations of the Abu Gosh Vocal Music elegant edifice appears to the north, the Trappist Festival, June 8-10, 2000, an intense two days of Monastery of Latrun, where visitors can sample and Choral masses, concerts, cantatas and contemporary buy the monks' Domains de Latroun wines, fiery music performed by some of Israel's finest ensembles brandy, olive oil and honey. Exiting the highway at in hauntingly beautiful surroundings. Full details of the Latrun Interchange, travelers tour the the festival are available by visiting www.agfestimonastery, vineyards and gardens, as well as the val.co.il or by calling 011-972-2-624-0896. nearby remnants of the Crusader castle of Le Toron For further information on travel to Israel, call des Chevaliers. The Trappist monks are members of the Israel Ministry of Tourism InfoCenter at 1-888a silent order and their monastery, built in 1890, 77-ISRAEL, or e-mail to info@goisrael.com. recalls the traditional burial place of the "good thief Tourism information on Israel is also available by crucified with Jesus, known since the Middle Ages as visiting the Ministry of Tourism's North American "Domus Boni Latronis" (Latin for "resting place of Web-Site: www.goisrael.com.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 13

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2000 Metropolitan Community College Board of Governors, District #4 For three years, 1994-97,1 was an administrator at Metro, responsible for Marketing, Public Relations, Planning, Faculty and Staff Development and the Budget. I also coordinated the Workforce Development effort, matching student/employee skills with business needs through focused training.

During this time, the college underwent a major restructuring, applying quality management and re-engineering principles; I was the principal advisor to the President and the Board on this initiative. My experience has been primarily in business and non-profit management.

That, combined with my Metro affiliation, I believe, can be put to good use in helping to steer the future course of the organization.

David Catalan District #1 I have the energy, drive and conviction to take the college to the next academic level. The depth of experience I bring to the board will better serve the people of this district. As an architect (with a Master's Degree in Architecture from UNO) and project manager for several large public/civic building projects, I have dealt with contention and conflict. Consensus building and finding common ground in diverse and difficult situations is what I often do. Furthermore, I will see to it that college funds, which come from each of us, are used wisely and efficiently.

I am committed to the College's goal of low cost education for all and determined to get students the education they need to enhance their lives.

Patrick J. Leahy

(Editor's note: Candidates running in dis- prior to the Primary Elections. All those tricts where members of the Jewish communi- received by our deadline are printed below. ty reside were asked to submit articles up to Don't forget to vote: this Tuesday, May 91) 250 words in length for this special issue,

Metropolitan Utilities Board Through my education and training as a civil engineer and years of practice in the Omaha area, I am well-qualified to be a member of the M.U.D. Board of Directors. I am currently President of Barry Larson & Son, a well-established Omaha general contracting firm and hold a degree in civil engineering from the University of Nebraska.

After serving in the Corps of Engineers, I worked as an officer of Larson Cement Stone Co. I am an active past Executive Director of both the Metropolitan Omaha Builders Association and the Nebraska State Home Builders Association. Over the years, I've worked closely with the M.U.D. Board and directly with many of the M.U.D. departments.

Other qualifications include my experience on the Omaha Zoning Board of Appeals, the Omaha Building Board of Review, the Omaha Air Quality Control Board and as a 16-year member of the Ad Hoc Code Review Committee non-structural.

My training and experience best qualifies me to represent M.U.D. rate payers as the utility moves forward with the construction of the $268 million Platte West Water Treatment Facility over the next several years. In addition, my experience as a customer, rate payer and proponent of M.U.D. further adds to my unique qualifications to serve as a member of the M.U.D. Board of Directors.

Barry Larson

With eye on November â&#x20AC;&#x201D; (Continued from page 4) "We are optimistic we can make significant inroads," says Matthew Brooks, the executive director of the Republican Jewish Coalition. "Gov. Bush has a positive message of inclusion."

Bush can reach out to a traditionally non-Republican constituency, Brooks says, and he will continue to aggressively court Jewish voters.

"He will not write off the Jewish vote," Brooks adds.

For their part, Democrats believe it is Gore who sits squarely in line with the', Jewish community when it comes to policy - particularly health care, education, gun control and abortion rights.

"This campaign can be fought and won in the Jewish community purely on the issues," says David Harris, deputy executive director of the National Jewish Democratic Council.

Nevertheless, Gore will actively pursue Jewish support and try to energize Jewish voters, according to Jewish Democrats.

"He won't take anything for grants ed," Harris says.

Bush, it seems, cannot even take the support of registered Jewish Republicans for granted, given that he was not the clear choice in some of the primaries while Sen. John McCain of Arizona (R-AZ.) was still in the race. .

Jewish Republicans in New York, according to Voter News Service exit polls, overwhelmingly chose McCain over Bush, 58 percent to 28 percent, andrin California, exit polls showed McCain with 21 percent and Bush with 4% of the Jewish vote.

As Bush embarks on t h e long

stretch to November, one way he can reach out even more to the Jewish community is to give a major speech to a prominent Jewish group, suggests Joseph Gildenhorn, the finance chairman for the Bush campaign in the Washington area.

"As Jews realize he is a centrist and he is inclusive, Jews will be attracted to him," Gildenhorn predicts.

In both campaigns, fund raising â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even as campaign finance reform is shaping up to be a contentious election issue -- will be a key objective in the weeks and months ahead.

Gildenhorn says that to raise more funds, the Bush campaign has to seek out new supporters and win over former McCain backers. Gildenhorn says he hopes to do that in the Jewish and non-Jewish world.

Raising funds for Gore in the Jewish community has never been a problem, says David Steiner, a past president of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and a fund-raiser for the Gore campaign in New Jersey.

The fund raising for Gore as well as for the Democratic Party has been "overwhelmingly Jewish," according to Morris Amitay, a former executive director of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, who currently runs Washington PAC, pro-Israel political action committee.

Campaign contributions translate into access, Amitay says, and for Jews that means they can bring their domestic agenda and issues concerning Israel right to the candidate.

When jt comes to seeking Jewish financial support, Steiner says, Gore will just "keep doing what he's doing."

I am running for re-election to the M.U.D. Board of Directors, having serving two terms and first elected in 1988.

My qualifications include service in the U.S. Army during World War II, including 20 months with the 1262nd Engineer Combat Batallion in the European Theater. I attended Creighton University and Michigan State University and am currently an associate broker with Century 21 Dundee Realty.

I have also served as a Douglas County Election Commissioner from 1962-68, and on the Omaha City Council from 1973-81 as well as the Douglas County Board from 1971-72. Other qualifications include Director of Governmental Affairs for the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, 1968-69, and Coordinator of the Omaha University/Nebraska University Merger Committee in 1968.

I am past president of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Administrative Management Society and a past member of t h e Nebraska Environmental Control Council. I also am a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, South Omaha Eagles and Q Street Merchants.

Jerry Hassett (Continued on page 14)

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Page 14

Jewish Press, Omaha, Ne

May 5,2000

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2000 Second Congressional District friendship the U.S. shares with Israel. As I stood Earlier this year I spent five days in Israel.

I chose this as the only international trip I have at the top of Mount Hermon, I looked down one made as a Congressman because of the importance direction to Syria, and in another direction I could of U.S.-Israeli relations for our country in general see Lebanon. This was a poignant lesson of how easy it would be to invade Israel. The Golan and Omaha in particular.

It is one thing to learn about the situation in the Heights is a strategic buffer zone between Syria Middle East from position papers and articles. But and Israel and is vital to Israeli's future security.

I now have a much deeper understanding and it is quite another to walk the Golan Heights and talk to people, from shopkeepers to brigadier gener- perspective of Israel's unique challenges, support a continued partnership between the United States als, about security issues.

My trip illustrated the partnership and the and Israel. This means helping enforce the demilitarized zones between Israel and Syria, and defraying the costs of surveillance and the transfer of Israeli military bases.

In my meetings with the highest ranking government officials, I realized that Israel wants U.S. for District 66 School Board involvement in the peace process—as a facilitator.

The Palestinians desire a more involved role. But • Fiscal Responsibility with any lasting accord must be negotiated between the Control of Property Taxes two parties. If the accords are accomplished, the • 30+Year Resident/Taxpayer U.S. must commit-to supporting the peace-. I will • Retired Personnel Administrator do my part to ensure we honor that commitment.

• Educated Children in District 66 Lee Terry Suiiaut 2.ualittj.. . . PnotUde fp/i tfutttte Achievements There is no free lunch. That is an old saying that means everything must be paid for by someone.

There is another saying that goes like this: "if you MARK want to dance, you must pay the band."

In a campaign for public office, the candidates must inform the electorate of their qualifications.

There is a cost to getting information to people. If LEGISLATURES the cost is borne by the people, then the people can District 31 reasonably expect to have access and influence on the public official. If on the other hand, special Visit Mark's Website at interest groups represented by political action comwww.quandahl.com mittees do the financing of the campaign, it is reaPaMlorbyaumdMhltorUaklMtun sonable to expect the public official will give them Commltt—, Jmy PMpe, Tnaturw, 1S729 Lmmwarth arch, O/wrt* NE 6Jf M the benefit of access and influence.

My name is Allen C. Johnson. I am retired from the U.S. Air Force and practice law in Omaha. I want to be your Representative in Washington. The May 9 primary gives the Democratic voters of the Second Please vote for Congressional District the opportunity to select a candidate who will represent them in Congress.

PERKINS

Quandahl

Tim Potter

for the Metro Community College Board District 4 Primary election-May 9

Vote for

STU DORNAN District 66 School Board As a Board member, I will be an active participant in policy planning that reflects sound stewardship and moral principles. 1 will bring additional level-headed leadership to the Board and will seek to inform, be accessible and serve the community.

Included below are some of my priorities: • Support of mentoring and after-school tutoring programs for students in need.

• Assessing the individual educational needs of students to prepare them for then* future.

• Paying and employing quality teachers and fairly compensating them based on their performance.

• Maintain strong anti-drug and alcohol, and school safety programs.

Paid for by Dorman for DUIrict 66 Board

Here are a few things I want to do for you and me. I will not be beholding to the banks and insurance, companies and the other special interests when it comes to protecting your privacy. I will work to make it illegal for all institutions that have access to our financial data to sale or share it with any other organization or affiliate without your expressed permission. I will put the burden on them to get permission and not allow them to use it until you say "yes." This will eliminate most of your dinner time telemarketers and credit card solicitation through the mail.

Allen C. Johnson Since I announced my intention to run for Congress last October, I have had the opportunity to talk with thousands of people across the district just like you and me.

They have the same concerns you and I have.

They are worried about the quality of their children's education, about the rising cost of health care and prescription drug coverage, and that Social Security will not be around for their children and grandchildren.

I will use my experience as a teacher, a mother and a State Senator to increase our government's commitment to education and the future of our children. I will continue to build on my strong record on health care by supporting a patient's bill of rights and provide medicare prescription drug coverage. I will use my proven leadership to save Social Security first and protect employee pensions.

You know where I stand on the issues important to you and me. I will honestly protect Nebraska's families by fighting for the life, health and choice of a mother/ .by increasing funding of our schools and opposing vouchers, by fighting for common sense gun safety laws.

I hope I will meet you and your family out on .the campaign trail. I'm always willing to listen and talk about how we can work togethertohonestly protect Nebraska's families. Check out my website for more information at: www.shelleykiel2000.coin Shelley Kiel

United States Senate I understand how tough it is for working an open minded, consensus builder with the politiNebraska families to make ends meet and how cal courage to tackle issues. I led Nebraska important it is to worktogethertoget things done. through good and bad times, making the tough My commitment to hard work, community and choices regardless of political party. family are the Nebraska values I learnedfrommy I have pledged to be an independent voice for parents.

Nebraskans if I am electedtothe U.S. Senate. My I grew up in McCook, NE, where my father was a first priority istoget Nebraska agriculture back on lineman and my mother worked in the school cafe- track. I'm also committed to improving the quality teria. I graduated from the University of Nebraska of and accesstoeducation. in 1963, where I also earned a Master's degree and I want meaningful health care reform that puts a law degree. I worked in the insurance industry doctors and patients in charge of medical decisions. before serving as Governor Jim Exon's State I firmly believe that all spending decisions must Insurance Director. I was then elected Governor in reflect a commitment to strengthening Social 1990 and re-elected in 1994.

Security and Medicare while providing tax relief As Governor, I achieved solid results in both for working Nebraska farmers and families. urban and rural economic development, agriculBen Nelson ture, education and budgeting. I was regarded as

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May 5, 2000

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 15

Primary Preview

2000 Nebraska State Legislature District #39 Let me start out by telling you a little about my family. They are what led me to r u n for the State Legislature. My wife, Wendy, and I have been married 10 years. We have a son, Taylor, (7) and a daughter, Emilie Sarah (3). In addition to being an at-home mother, Wendy also works as a registered nurse.

I received by Bachelor's Degree from UNO. After graduating, I worked for t h e Department of Veteran Affairs and we relocated several times as a result. We returned to Omaha to continue working on my schooling and to raise our children.

Currently, I am working towards a Master's Degree in Public Administration at UNO. I believe the MPA will enhance my skills in working effectively in government.

• ..

I grew up in a small town where I learned to appreciate the value of hard work. I remain appreciative of the opportunities this has provided me.

My religious upbringing as a Mormon and moral values arise from it have contributed to my decision to run for State Legislature. I believe a great deal can be accomplished with a compassionate heart and an open mind.

Bearing in mind that any decisions I make will affect those I serve, a few of the things I will strive to change and support are to: •provide tax relief to those sending their children to private schools to aid in their tuition; •eliminate wasteful spending in government; • provide tax relief to property owners; •protect freedom of speech and religion; •protect the beauty and value of life; •provide tax relief to double income families with a desire for one parent to remain home for their children.

•vie.

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District #31 I was appointed to the Nebraska Legislature last year by Gov. Mike Johanns. My background continues to make him uniquely qualified to represent the citizens of District #31 and the entire state of Nebraska.

I am a,product of the State of Nebraska. I was born in Omaha, went to school and college here, started a business here and have chosen to raise my family here in Nebraska.

A Ralston native, I graduated from Ralston High School in 1980 and received my Bachelor's Degree from UNL in 1984 and a Juris Doctor Degree from the Nebraska College of Law in 1987.

I am a member of the law firm of Brumbaugh & Quandahl, P.C. My wife Stacy and I have three children: Sarah, 11, Scott, 9 (currently enrolled in the Millard Public School system) and R.J., 4.

I pledge to continue to support and introduce legislation that will: • control property taxes; • promote economic growth; • improve the quality of education; • increase the efficiency of government.

My 1999 priority bill, the Relief for Properly taxpayers, will provide over $115 million in relief through property tax credit I designated my 2000 priority bill as the Uniform Transaction Act, which passed. Gov. Johanns signed the bill on March 30, which will facilitate the use of the internet for business and governmental purposes.

Mark Quandahl

District #9 I am running for the Legislature because I believe I can make a difference for the State of Nebraska and because of my love for this state.

I grew up in Omaha, going to Field Club Elementary School, Norris Junior High and Central High School. Like many Omahans, I left to attend college in Chicago (at Northwestern University) and get a taste of a bigger city. I subsequently returned and completed my studies at Creighton University, where I earned a B.A. in economics and then a law degree.

I started my legal career in Omaha at the firm of Raynor, Rensch and Pfeiffer. Subsequently I worked for Mitchel Law Offices and then started my own practice, primarily in the area of immigration law.

While establishing my own practice, I returned to school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and to get the medical education I knew I would need to be an effective personal injury and medical malpractice attorney. I get a lot of satisfaction hi helping people who have been injured and who have no recourse to solve the problems associated with their injuries.

Nebraska is a wonderful place to live, but we are losing our best and brightest young people to other states because of the perception there is a better life to be found elsewhere. The job market needs to grow with high paying and interesting jobs.

I believe the major issue we face in the legislature is trying to recruit high-tech businesses to set up shop in Nebraska. I want to be a moving force in the legislature as we enter this new millennium.

Van A. Argyrakis

P e t e r s e n

Shelley

Douglas County Board of Commissioners I was born and raised in Omaha, graduated from Beals Elementary and central High School and attended college at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Married to the late Allen T. Pirsch who was also an Omaha native, we have six children: Elizabeth, an attorney in private practice in the Washington, DC, area; Pamela Williams, a teacher for OPS; Patrice, an insurance executive; Phyllis, director of an assisted living facility in Texas; Peter, an Omaha City Prosecutor; and Perry, a deputy Attorney General for the State of Nebraska.

I was elected to the Nebraska State Legislature in 1978 and served for 18 years. Some of the accomplishments during those years include: establishing a Victims Bill of Rights in the Constitution and Victim-Witness Assistance Centers across Nebraska; changing the insanity plea law to provide more protection for the public; defining and strengthening the law for protection of children

against child molesters. I also held regular Town Hall meetings and issued regular newsletters and questionairres to my constituents.

I was elected to the Douglas County Board in 1996 and is in my fourth year as a commissioner. I served as Chairman in 1999 and presently serves as Vice-chairman. My colleagues also elected me as their representative on the City/County Building Commission. As Chairman, I spearheaded the merger of the City/County computer system, jail and booking with County Corrections. I introduced rules and procedures to bring about more orderly discussion and debate in meetings.

I'm a mentor at Benson West Elementary School and serve on the board of directors for the Bell federal Credit Union, Nebraska Coalition for Victims of Crime, Footprinters International, Audubon Society, and League of Women Voters.

Carol McBride Pirsch

Kiel

Congress

Honestly Protecting Nebraska's Families • Quality Education • Affordable Health Care • Secure Retirement www.ShelleyKiel2000.com ftid for by Kid for Congreti, Muk HoegnTmuunf 309 S. 53- St. Onuhi. NE 68132 (402) 933-5140

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Page 16

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 6,2000

Primary Preview

2000 District 66 School Board I am running for District 66 School Board because I value the tradition of educational excellence in the District. My wife, Dari, and I have a vested interest in contributing our time and talent to School District service, as all of our six children are, or will be, attending District 66 schools. The District has a well-deserved reputation for an innovative and progressive educational system. This should be balanced with time-tested teaching methods and curriculum. We should look toward the technological and information age before us, yet be mindful of the wisdom and lessons learned from our educational ancestors.

I am a graduate of the University of Florida and Louisiana State university Law School. A former FBI agent, I am currently an attorney with the Gallup and Schaefer law firm. My community activities include: Co-president with my wife, Dari,

As a candidate for the District 66 School Board, I am a 31-year resident of the district. I am a retired personnel administrator, principal, assistant principal and teach,er from the Westaide Schools, with an extensive working knowledge of the district and school board. My wife, Sue, and I educated our own children in District 66. ,., ..'.•" ITiold an EdD in educational administration from UNL, a BA in history and an MS in secondary education from Omaha University (now UNO).

Issues that will require board policy decisions to maintain the outstanding status of the district include recruiting, hiring and retaining outstanding teachers in these times of teacher shortages.

Careful planning will be needed to manage orderly growth and to provide for educational improvement.

Stuart "Stu" Dornan All students: gifted, college-bound, handicapped, et al, need to be educated to allow them to maximize their potentials. Small elementary classes are essential to this task. Integration of updated educational technology is necessary to allow students to compete in academic and work settings. This must be accomplished using sound fiscal responsibility with control of property tax rates.

I have been active in my 33-year school tenure.

As parents, Sue and I participated in Oakdale and Prairie Lane Community Clubs, Valley View Junior High and Westside High School booster clubs. At Arbor Heights Junior High, I worked with the booster club and was principal when the school was selected as a blue ribbon winner by the U.S. Department of Education.

My civic service includes the positions of Lt. Governor, President and Secretary of a Kiwanis Club. I now serve on the board of directors and as a trustee of the Nebraska Children's Home Society. I have also served in the U.S. Air Force., •_ , Lee Perkins

of the Sunset Hills Community Club; board of directors for the. Ronald 'McDonald House; Big Brother, youth basketball and baseball coach for 15.' years; Sunday School teacher for 12 years. . ... _ As a Board member; 1 will beian active partid-* pant in policy planning that reflects sound stew-' ardship and moral principles. I will bring addition- . al level-headed leadership to the Board and will, seek to inform, be accessible and serve the community. Detailed below are my priorities: • support mentoring and after school tutoring programs for students in need; • assess the individual educational need of students to prepare them for the future; • pay and employ quality teaches and fairly compensate them based on their performance.

Choose Your Future.

._ PLEASE VOTE

Convention Center-Arena DuMECA On May 9th, Omahans will vote on two issues; to build a new Convention Center Arena, and amend the City Charter to establish the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority (MECA), A new Convention Center - Arena operated by MECA will: •expand the redevelopment of downtown and North Omaha; •attract top quality concerts, shows and sporting events; •bring convention visitors who will spend money and strengthen our economy; •create hundreds of new jobs; •improve the image of our city; and •bring a business-like approach to the construction and management.

A vote for the Convention Center - Arena and MECA is a vote for your future.

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A story from the Talmud adapted by Claudia Sherman, illustrated by Ruth Slow

It was an ordinary Tuesday morning in the marketplace. The butcher, Baruch, carefully displayed cuts of kosher meat in his booth where everyone who passed by could see their excellent quality.

In the next booth, Fishel the fisherman was selling his catch of hal ibut and herring. The fish was so fresh that you could sniff the sea scent.

The farmer, Feivel, decorated his booth in the market with the most beautiful oranges, apples and dates that he had picked for sale.

The smells of fresh food meandered and the squawks of a few stray chickens echoed in the streets throughout the marketplace.

Joseph, who worried every week about providing a proper Shabbos meal for his family, eagerly browsed the booths with his children, Rachel and Micah, for the best meats and produce to take home for Shabbos dinner.

Shabbos dinner? On Tuesday?

"Shalom, Baruch the Butcher!" bellowed Joseph.

"May I have the best of your meat for Shabbos?"

"For Shabbos?" questioned Baruch. "Isn't today Tuesday?" he inquired as he wrinkled his eyebrows and scratched his head in confusion.

Joseph and his children walked towards the next booth. "Nice to see you, Fishel!" blared Joseph. "Do you have a beautiful fish for my Shabbos table?"

"For Shabbos?" retorted Fishel. "You're kidding! I thought today was Tuesday," he mused as he, too, pushed back his cap and scratched his head.

Feivel the farmer's proud smile spread across his face as he noticed Joseph and his children strolling toward the produce booth.

"Hello, Farmer Feivel* shouted Joseph. "I want only the finest fruits and vegetables for Shabbos!"

Feivel's smile shifted into a smirk. "Tuesday for Shabbos? Shabbos on Tuesday? Humph!" sneered the farmer.

Not far from the marketplace, there was a huge mansion where Kasim, the miser, lived. Kasim always dressed in the best fabrics and his mansion was decorated with fine art and furnished in the most stylish of tables, chairs and divans.

But being a miser, Kasim never shared his wealth with anyone, not even those in hie village who were penniless.

On this particular Tuesday morning, the stargazer, Zusya, came to warn Kasim. "I have bad news," said Zusya.

"Last night I saw in the stars that your entire fortune will pass over to the poor Jew, Joseph, and you will be a pauper," the stargazer informed the horrified Kasim.

"Oh, no! I cannot let that happen!" screeched Kasim.

He paced back and forth in front of his mansion. His body was stooped over, his head was drooped and his arms were folded low across his back.

Suddenly, he stood up straight. A devious smile crossed his face. "I have an idea," he whispered to himself.

KaBim traded all his riches, wealth and property for one magnificent diamond. It sparkled brightly like a star. But Kasim hid its beauty by sewing it into his hat.

Secure in the knowledge that no one would inherit his riches, Kasim walked briskly through the vill(Cootinued on page 19)

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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by Ozzie Nogg For many Jews, Shavuot comes and arrives so of Israel and describes the delights to be brought quietly and goes unnoticed, you'd think the festi- by the Messiah. Also read on Shavuot is the Book val's name was really "Shhhhh-vuot." And that's a of Ruth. This story makes the gentle argument that shame since it brings an important message, plus belief is as important as birth, and teaches the charming cuBtoms, that all of us could easily lessons of loyalty, tolerance and love. observe and enjoy.

Find time for Study First, some historical background. Along with Legend h a s it t h a t on t h e day the Ten Passover and Sukkot, Shavuot was one of the three Commandments were to be given, the children of times during the year when the Israelites made pil- Israel overslept and God had to wake them up. To grimages to Jerusalem. On Shavuot, they brought atone for our slug-a-bed ancestors and to show two loaves of bread baked from the wheat of the gratitude for the Torah, the Kabbalists of medieval new crop, plus samples of the first fruits.

Safed set aside the eve of Shavuot for Tikkun L'el To prepare for the pilgrimage, farmers inspected Shavuot-the Service of the Night of Study. When it their crops and tied red threads around any fig, came to lesson plans, these Kabbalists meant busipomegranate or bunch of grapes that looked ripe. ness. Their staggering curriculum included Bible, These fruits, along with wheat, barley, olives and Prophets, and other sacred Jewish texts. dates, were then piled into baskets and carried in Now, even though staying up all night learning processions to Jerusalem. (Farmers who lived far Torah isn't as fashionable here as it was in old Safed, away arrived, obviously, with raisins instead of we could still do our bit. Design a Create-Your-Owngrapes, but nobody gave afigabout that...) • Study-Group, either at home or in the synagogue.

Leading each procession was a flutist and an ox, Study as long and as late as you want. Really serious its horns painted gold. Everyone who crowded into scholars could greet t h e dawn with a Blintz Jerusalem-rich and poor, alike-felt the joy of the Breakfast! Since we are the People of the Book, festival. Half the day was devoted to study and the shouldn't we at least know whaf s in the book? other half to eating and drinking. It was a time of Bring t h e Harvest Inside happiness and thanksgiving.

Get masses of greens and fresh flowers and bring But with the fall of the Second Temple and the them into your house. Encourage your kids to make Exile, the pilgrimages stopped, and the themes of shevuos-lekh-colortul paper cut-outs of flowers, Shavuot became Revelation, Covenant and Torah. animals and bible figures~to tape to the windows.

What had started out as a harvest feast was transPrepare a Shavuot Meal formed into a festival commemorating an event According to folklore, Shavuot is the best holiday. unparalleled in the history of the Jewish people. Why? Because on Passover we can't eat what we The giving of the Law — Z'Man Matan Torahtaynu. want. On Sukkot we can't eat where we want. On The Bible does not come right out and say that the Rosh Hashanah we can e a t only after saying Torah was given on Shavuot, but Talmudic interpre-' lengthy prayers. And on Yom Kippur, we can't eat tation tells us that fifty days after the Exodus, on the at all. But on Shavuot, we can eat what, where, sixth of day of the Hebrew month of Sivan-the date when and as much as we want! But always dairy. of Shavuot-the Torah was given. Shavuot can be Why? Reb Mendele Kotzker explained that we eat considered the birthday of the Jewish religion and, as milk products on Shavuot because the Jews, when such, it deserves our attention. they received the Torah, were like babies who could The following are some easy and essential ways only drink milk. to commemorate Shavuot: So whip up a batch of blintzes or cheese kreplachOne, two, three, Go! To services!

-dumpling. Then spread them with these Shavuot The Torah portion read on t h e first day of jams-Sephardic and simple.

Shavuot includes the Ten Commandments-the Choose a mixture of 2 tbsp. honey and 2 tbsp. basis for the Covenant and for all civilized life. This shredded coconut, or a mixture of 2 tbsp. honey and declaration of ethical behavior and loyalty to God 2 tbsp. sesame seed, or a mash of 2 tbsp. honey, 3 had never been heard until it was written in the tbsp. ground almonds, 2 tbsp. ground walnuts plus Torah. To hear the words on Shavuot should be a dash of cinnamon and cloves. required listening for all of us.

So there you have some of the hows, whys and whereAnother part of the service that gives it a special fores of the observance of Shavuot Now, go and enjoy! flavor is the chanting of the Akdamot, a mysterious Ozzie Nogg wrote this for the on-line magazine hymn that celebrates the glory of God, the devotion Jewish Family & LafeI-wwwjewishlGEanily.com

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1/2 tsp. paprika Our holidays, appetizers, salads, breads, soups, fish, meat-vegetarian entrees, vegetables, potatoes, Boil the potatoes in water for 10 minutes until rice-grains, kugels, condiments-sauces, desserts tender-crisp. Drain. and Passover are the 16 chapters. Shabbat, Rosh Preheat oven to 425". Coat a 9x13" baking pan Hashonah, Hanukkah, Purim, Yom Ha'Atzmaut with the olive oil spray. Place the seasonings and and more are briefly described with traditions at four to five potato halves in a plastic bag and shake the table and menus for every holiday. until well coated. Repeat until all the potatoes are Each recipe features a brief introduction, coated. whether it is pareve, dairy or meat, and serving Place the potatoes on the prepared baking pan. suggestions. Also included is a bold-face ingredient Spray one layer of the olive oil spray over the potalist, step-by-step instructions and variations. toes and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Hamische (desserts), chraine (horseradish), lighter Serves six. Calories: 212; saturated fat: 0 g; total holipshkes (rolled, stuffed cabbage), and more can fat: 0 g; carbohydrates: 47 g; cholesteroUO mg; sodibe found. The index is by alphabetical categories. um: 126 mg.; fiber: 2 g; protein: 6g.

The book is available at the Dorothy and Myer Add a healthy zip to your meals and enjoy these Kripke Jewish Federation Library. crusty potatoes.

(Continued from page 17) age. As he crossed over a bridge above the river "Joseph will buy your fish in honor of Shabbos! He's that runs through the village, a brisk draft blew his - always looking for something better for Shabbos!". hat from his head and into the water.

And Joseph gladly bought the big fish as Rachel "Oh, no! My hat!" My diamond!" he shrieked. and Micah gazed at the large sea creature.

The hat sank quickly with the heavy weight of You can imagine how astonished Joseph and his the large diamond. Down, down, down it floated as family were when they cleaned the fish for dinner fish swam past it curiously. As the hat drifted deep and discovered the magnificent diamond in its into the river, a rock tore the hat open and the belly. glowing diamond emerged. A large fish was attractJoseph is now a rich, ed to the shimmering glow and swallowed the dia- man. And he never has to mond whole. worry any more about proLate on Friday afternoon, a fisherman caught the viding his family with big fish. "Who will buy such a huge fish this close to plenty of good food on J Shabbos?" he wondered.

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Page 20

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

Are we ready for a Jewish Veep?

(Continued from page 1) This movie isn't especially noteworthy, but it did get me thinking about the likelihood of any Jew ever becoming president of the United States. The answer is, of course, not very likely—but not altogether impossible, either.

The Jewish presence in every significant aspect of American life is a given these days. If 11 Jews can serve simultaneously in the U.S. Senate, it isn't that much of a leap of the imagination to see one of them in the White House—or at least as vice president.

Of course, in 1996, Pennsylvania's Sen. Arlen Specter did make a brief run for the Republican nomination for president. But, with all due respect to Specter, virtually no one thought his candidacy was realistic. Given the forces at play inside the GOP that year, he probably would have had a better shot at being elected pope than at winning the Republican nomination.

Which brings us to this year's scenario for placing a Jew on the national ticket of one of our major political parties. And, for the first time in memory, a lot of the spin about who might be the presumptive Democratic candidate Al Gore's choice to succeed him as vice president has mentioned a Jew as a realistic alternative.

Actually, three Jews have been mentioned: Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin, California Sen. Diane Feinstein and Connecticut Sen. Joseph Lieberman. But my impression is that the only one remotely realistic is Lieberman, whose putative candidacy has lately benefited from a lot of journalistic support.

Lieberman, who has never discouraged speculation of this sort, has been promoted by insiders, such as TV talking head Morton Kondracke, who is the editor of the Capitol Hill newspaper Roll Call; there have been others as well. Interestingly, Laeberman's candidacy was also recently plugged by the conservative magazine The Weekly Standard.

Why Lieberman? As someone who covered the senator for several years and got to know him while at my old post in Connecticut, I can answer the

question easily. Joe Lieberman is a mensch at a time when America knows it needs one.

Lieberman is, in some ways, the perfect veep candidate for the Democrats, whose major weaknesses relate to the moral legacy of the Clinton White House. Though Lieberman did not vote for impeachment, he did stand out as a critic of the president.

At a time when most Democrats were rationalizing the dishonorable behavior of the president, it was only Joe Lieberman who stood on the Senate floor in August 1998 and denounced Clinton's antics as "disgraceful," "immoral" and "too consequential for us to walk away from." Almost alone on his side of the aisle, Lieberman insisted that illicit sex in the Oval Office was not "nobody's business." That took courage, not only because of his partisan allegiance, but because he is an old friend of the president's.

Similarly, Lieberman was the only Senate Democrat who did not try to obstruct investigations into Clinton's 1996 campaign-finance shenanigans.

He had the ability to pull off those independent stands without other Democrats seeing him as a turncoat or an out-of-control maverick because of his personal moral stature.

A lot of t h a t has to do with the fact that Lieberman is an Orthodox Jew who is not only conspicuously observant in a forum where religious Jews have been virtually unknown, but a person who actually does his best to infuse his work with Jewish values.

If you read his recent book, In Praise of Public Life (Simon & Schuster)—which may be intended to boost his national political standing — you will find an author unafraid to talk to a non-Jewish audience in Jewish terms. We truly have come a long way when a Jewish politician in the United States can articulate his philosophy in terms of concepts such as tikkun olam and quotes from the Talmud.

Lieberman's career has taught American Jews that they don't have to assimilate or play down their Jewishness in order to rise to high places. In

contrast to our general paranoia about antiSemitism, his colleagues and non-Jewish voters respect him and look to him as a moral authority because he is shomer Shabbat. I cannot conceive of a more positive role model for Jewish youth.

Moreover, his non-ideological brand of politics has enabled him to work well across party lines on a host of issues. A true centrist, he is the model of the "New Democrat" that Clinton and Gore pretend to be. He supported the Gulf War, is a vocal critic of immorality in the entertainment industry and takes independent stands on issues such as his support for school choice. Yet, he is also still seen as a reliable Democrat on many bread-and-butter issues that appeal to liberals.

Lieberman is not a plaster saint. He's a hardheaded politician. Though generally well liked, there are more than a few Democratic polls in Connecticut who resent him and are not shy about pointing out that when he sees a political advantage to be had, watch out. Try to get in his way and you'll soon have tire tracks on your back.

But the amazing thing about Lieberman is that in an era when Americans have come to view career politicians as a lower life form, he is that rare bird who not only can inspire personal respect but can actually make one believe again in the ideal of public service. He would lend gravitas to a ticket headed by a man whose prime characteristic is a willingness to say or do anything to get elected.

Is Lieberman really in contention? Only Gore knows for sure. The odds are still heavily against his being chosen. But, in marked contrast to my nightmare, Joe Lieberman is a Jewish politician whose elevation to the job would actually be good for the Jews.

Just as the election of George W. Bush may bring back the national fad his father inspired for tie consumption of pork rinds, a Vice-president Lieberman could actually make kashrut fashionable.

Jonathan S. Tobin is executive editor at the Jewish Exponent in Philadelphia. He can be reached via e-mail: jtobin@jewishexponent.com.

Ida Arkin Goldie Aron Iillie Becker Ida Belmont Elaine Bernstein Elenore Bernstein Rose Binstein Gertrude Brodkey Helen Brodkey Eudice Canar Edith Cherwitz Fannie Chunovic Babe Dobrofsky Dorothy Eirenberg Rose Fischer Ida Forbes Rose Frankel Mollie Franklinn Minnie Freeman Ida Frenkel Sadie Fried Faye Gendler Sylvia Goldberg

Miriam Grossman Beverly Haber Ann Gitnick Hahn Harriet Herman Anna Hemingway Ruth Kendis Hiller Anne Hoffman Pearl Jabenia Marilyn Kagan Elsa Kahn Sophie Kahn Lena Kaplan Sophie Kaplan Clara Katz Helen Kirke Dorothy Kripke Eva Lobowitz Rose Levine Fanny Levinsky .Jean Lubman Rose Mandel Ida Mann Louise Martin

Greetings from the moms at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home

Marie Mayer Stella Meyer : Margaret Nearenberg Laura Plattner Sally Ricks Mabel Rips Irene Saltzman Sara Saltzman Dorothy Schrier Miriam Shrier Sylvia Stein Bess Stern Helen Stern AnnSurkin Wanda Thompson Esther Waxman Sylvia Weiriberg Molly Weiner Iil Weinstein Mildred Wine Anita Wintroub Gertrude Zorinsky

May 5,2000

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Page 21

MOTH

MfA

omahaQ ROZAE

Happy Mother's Day

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Page 22

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

aura ^Tagliacci & 6artnina Burana

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May 5,2000

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Mother's Day jewelry as unique as she is..

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Page 24

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

Mother's Day is May 14

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Premier Motorcars of Nebraska 15225 Industrial Road, Omaha (402)384-9999 tMSRP for a C23O Komprsssor at $31,760 excludes SS45 transportation charge, all taxes, Hue/documentary lees, registration, tags, retailor prop.charges, Insurance, optional equipment, certificate of compliance or noncomplianco fees, and tlnanco charges. Prtcos may vary by retailer. 'As called tor by the Flexible Servico Systom. Wear items excluded. Limitations apply. See your Mercedes Center for a copy of the Morcodos-Bonz limited warranty and details ol liio Morcodes Maintenance Commitment. "Tele Aid requires consumer subscription lor monitoring seMco, connection charge, and air time. Available only in cellular sorvico areas. First year's monitoring, subscription, monthly access toes, and 30 mlnutos of air time Included at no cost: See retailer for dolails. For more Information, call 1-000-FOR-MERCEDES, or visit our Web site: www.MBUSA.com. AIR BAGS ARE A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM, SO REMEMBER AIR BAG SAFETY: BUCKLE EVERYONE AND CHILDREN IN BACK! .

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May 5,2000

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Start with a corner... expand with your needs

When creating a home working environment, functionality and quality is as important as appearance and you'll find it all fn tachlln*" products. This versatile system of laminated furniture comes in several choices of colors and wood finishes allowing you to design intelligent work space that will function as well tomorrow as It does today. Stop in to visit with one of our designers to learn the techllnv" advantage. '.•'.'

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Page 25

Page 26

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

TRUGREEN

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May 5,2000

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Step into spring at Regency Court, where

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Page 27

Page 28 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

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Page 29

Page 30

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

CELEBRATE MOTHER'S DAY WITH A FAMILY BIKE REDE

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If you need a new bike, helmet, accessories, or cycling apparel, Bike Rack has what you need.

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We Cater

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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ROSES $13.99 Long Stem Florist Quality

One dozen

8 Stem Mixed Bouquet $3.79 • Ladies Pastel Printed T-Shirts $8.79

POTTED PLANTS Mini Rose-Caladium-Cycfamfn

4 lA inch pots $ 3 . 7 9 u

EMPIRE CHICKEN IQF Breasts EMPIRE CHICKEN IQF Nuggets

3 lb. Bag $7,99 4 lb. Bag $12.99

4910 S. 135th ST. (135th & MILLARD AVE.)

Page 31

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

May 5,2000

HAPPX

Make HY-VEE Your MOTHER'S DAY Headquarters 7(owtrs (Balloons Candy

• gift Ideas • Terfwne • <Biooming Tiants

• 10" Hanging <Bas(&s

• > < • * ,

PEONY PARK 7910CassSt. 384-8668

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- , . . . - .

WESTRIDGE 132nd &W. Dodge 493-2911

90TH & CENTER 8809 W. Center

384-9072