February 16, 2001

EWISH PRESS VoLLXXX

No. 20 Omaha, ME

23 Sh'vat, 5761

February 16,2001

SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 8Q YEARS

Part n

We Don't Live In A Perfect World, You Can Help Make It Better

iegistration Begins for birthright Israel Spring 2001 Journeys

by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director

by JEWISH PRESS News Service •

(Editor's note: This is the conclusion of a two-part article highlighting the increasing need for a scholarship fund to subsidize quality early-childhood daycare for Jewish families in need. The families' situations are true , . . however, their names have been changed to protect their privacy.) Marcie Fischer was in a desperate position. Her I0-month-old daughter, Samantha, had government assisted daycare which closed unexpectedly, leaving Marcie without childcare and worried about losing her job. When Marcie's friends and family learned of her dilemma, they called Corey Kirshenbaum, Assistant Director of the Jewish Community Center, to see what could be done to get Samantha enrolled in the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center. Kirsnenbaum's first instinct was to tell Marcie's story to two women he knew would take immediate action: Wendy Goldberg and Stacey Rockman. Goldberg and Rockman are involved in many aspects of the Omaha Jewish community and have worked hard to enrich Jewish life here. But their true talent is finding innovative ways to enhance Jewish life for our children. As members of the CDC Executive Committee, the two women encouraged Kirshenbaum to bring Omaha's Jewish professionals together for an emergency meeting. By working together, they reasoned, the professionals could draw on each other's diverse expertise, brainstorm creative ideas and find the funds to pay for Samantha's daycare at the CDC. One of the first professionals they called was Carolyn Novicoff, Executive Director of Jewish Education and Library Services (JELS). Part of JELS' mission involves matching local Jewish families with scholarships and financial aid for Jewish education, specifically Jewish preschool, camp, Israel Experience trips and college. Fortunately, many local Jewish families and individuals have established endowment funds and scholarships so

children from families with limited resources need not be limited when it comes to accessing Jewish education. But Marcie and Samantha's case presented a big problem. There are no scholarship funds for Jewish daycare. All the available funds are specifically earmarked for children age 2-5 to attend preschool. At 10months, Samantha was too young far the preschool program and couldn't qualify for these fimds. The Jewish professionals knew they had to pool all their resources and find a solution. Federation Executive Director Jan Perelman, Foundation Director Marty Ricks, JCO Executive Director Jeffrey Aizenberg, Jewish Family Service Director Steve Stiel and CDC Director Allen Kurfand joined the others at the emergency meeting. During the discussion, Perelman acknowledged, "While the Federation's Annual Campaign funds many Jewish education programs and scholarships, it's obvious that we desperately need more funding for Jewish daycare, and the needs are outpacing the money." Novicoff predicts an increasing number of families and young people will request financial aid— from a static pool of funds. JELS is one of five beneficiary agencies of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and it provides administrative support for the Financial Aid Committee, whose members make the tough decisions regarding each~appTiclhlfs*e*EgibLBfy for scnbliiffips'anaTEffiancial aid. The identity of those who sit on that committee is a closely-guarded secret. If s so secret that Novicoff admits, "I don't even know who's on it! Their anonymity guarantees that scholarship applications are held in strict confidence." Without a viable scholarship option for Samantha, the Jewish professionals had one last option: to look for private donors in the Omaha Jewish community who would be able to help Marcie over(Continiied on page 8)

Dr. David-Ellenson Returns to Temple Israel by IRIS RICKS, Temple Israel Program Director "liberal Judaism and Its Prayer Books" will be the theme when Dr. David Ellenson returns to Temple Israel March 2-4 for a scholar-in-residence weekend in celebration of the 125th anniversary of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. (HUC-JIR is the educational and intellectual center of Reform Judaism.) Rabbi Dr. Ellenson, the I.H. and Anna Grancell Professor of Jewish Religious Thought at HUC-JIR in Los Angeles, will address the community three times during the weekend and will focus on the ways in which our liturgy reflects who we are as Jews. The lectures begin Friday, March 2, 8 p.m., when he will speak on "Manifest and Latent Content in Liturgy and the Role of Modernity in the Reshaping of Jewish Worship." Following the worship service, there will be an opportunity to meet with Dr. Ellenson in an informal setting. He continues the lectures at Bagels and Bible on Saturday, March 3, at 9 a.m., when he will discuss "Nineteenth Century Reform Siddurim: What They Have to Teach Us." The weekend concludes Sunday, March. 4, 10 aan., with a Bagel Brunch; Dr. Ellenson will discuss, "Non-Orthodox Liturgy in America~What It Says About Us." Dr. Ellenson received his Ph.D. from Columbia

Columbia, HUCJIR and the University of Virginia and a bachelor's degree from the College of William and Mary. During the summer of 1999, Ellenson was a Fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem where he Dr. David Ellenson taught and pursued his own research. Dr. Ellenson. has published and lectured ex-tensively on di-verse topics in modern Jewish history, ethics and thought. He is well known for the sociological approach he takes to illuminate the history and development of modern Reform, Conservative, Reeonstructionlst and Orthodox Judaism. His application of this method has allowed him to emphasize the interplay between Jewish religious tradition and modern society. All events are open to the community and are sponsored by The Hermene Zweiback Center for

University and was ordained a rabbi at HUC-JIR Lifelong Jewish Learning and HUC-JIR. For more in New York. He also holds masters' degrees from information, call the Temple, office, 556-6536.

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M a r e Ricks (right) a n d friends on t o p of Masada, See Ms story oa pages 10-11. New York, Wi-hirthright Israel announced that registration for the Spring 2001 journeys to Israel has begun and will continue through March 7 for trips commencing in May and June. This spring, birthright i§raet plans to take 5,000 participants from North America as part of a contingent of 7,000 participants worldwide. Any Jewish young adult, 18-26, who lias never been to Israel on an educational peer group program, is eligible for the birthright isrtiel gift and can register Applicants can choose from a variety of educational programs they would Kke to experience. The announcement of the Spring 2001 trips occurs just weeks after nearly 9,000 participants worldwide retained from Israel this winter. "birthright Israel is bringing young people to Israel at an important time in our history," said David Ivry, Israel's Ambassador to the United States. "As a proud partner in the birthright Israel initiative, we invite young Jewish adults from all over North America to take advantage of this generous gift of a lifetime." The birthright Israel gift covers roundtrip airfare plus 10-days of educational programming designed for youth to explore Israel and their Jewish heritage. "In just 14 months, nearly 17,000 participants have received this gift," said Marlene Post, Chairperson of birthright israel. "While that number Is certainly impressive and unprecedented, we are not resting on our laurels. Over the next month, we will be encouraging Jews from all over North America to sign up for this incredible journey to Israel. "Birthright Is a program that sells itself by allowing Jewish youth the opportunity to discover their Jewish identity, their local Jewish communities and Israel. Birthright now has 17,000 'ambassadors' who have returned overwhelmed from their trip," Post continued. T h e y are our best sales people and our greatest marketing asset to recruit thousands of applicants for the upcoming spring trips. We are moved by the eagerness our alumni are sharing with their peers about their exhilarating experiences in Israel." (Continued on page 11)

INSIDE: Singer grants due Jewish humor and the Internet

page S .....page 9

Marc Ricks writes about his birthright israel experience .pages 10-11 Kids' Super. Sunday photos......

page 12

Page 2

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Pulverente

February 16, 2001

MONUMENT CO.

STELLA (VANN) MEYER Graveside services for Stella Meyer, 100, were by DAN FELLMAN : held Feb. 11 at Temple Israel Cemetery, Frank L Ciaatta,Jr Rabbinical student, Hebrew Union Colleg -Jewish Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Institute of Religion, Cincinnati, OH .-»»-»«--«»--«-» Donald and Gloria Vann of Omaha; three grandParashaYitro children; and seven great-grandchildren. Not so long ago, my parents spent a Shabbat Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home or with me at my congregation in Joplin, MO. As a charity of choice. student at the Hebrew Union College, I serve a small congregation as a student rabbi, visiting RAE SARAH JACOBS twicp a month to teach, lead services, and serve as l e i y o i Ysrar fSSsi- i s t iigaitSiiiis Former Omahan Rae Sarah Jacobs died Feb. 8 in a rabbi. I think the weekend was one of great pride Costa Mesa, CA, at the age of 96. and nachas for them, though for me, quite honestProfessional Assessment and Recommendations She was preceded in death by her husband, ly, the weekend was stressful. b your home A Morris. My parents loved seeing the Temple, watching Survivors include her duaghter, Susie Jacobs me preach from the bimah, and slip into the rabbi's Peebler; grandsons, David and Mark Peebler; and Home Access Solutions (402) 291-9514 study which I comfortably use as an office. They two great-granddaughters. smiled as they watched me lead a service, teach a Memorials to Bat Yahm Temple, 1011 Camelclass, interact with congregants. back St., Newport Beach, CA 92660, or charity of Runway • Commercials • Print • Radio As Shabbat neared its end, we found some time choice. to talk about their visit. They glowed with praise, O o and offered some constructive comments. They 3 <-* were quick to highlight strengths, but also caring Bishop John SheSby Spong a <D enough to suggest some helpful improvements. Though I was nervous as Shabbat began, by the to Speak at Temple Israel O CD STUDIOS time the day blurred into dusk, I was eager to by JEWISH PRESS News Service • "Challenging Fundamentalism: Reading the Bible spend time hearing their reactions. The weekend Professional Modeling/ V) [Acting School AND Agency S. was a standard parent-child interaction in the with Jewish Eyes," will be the topic when Bishop John Shelby Spong speaks at Temple Israel during m child's workplace. « CLASSES Shabbat services on Friday, March 9, at 7:30 p.m. Desirae Vance Parents love to visit their children at work. CD NOW FORMING Recent Graduate Temple Israel, along with First United Methodist Moms and dads take great pride in watching their <p (Ages 13 & up) Professional Modeling/light Acting 3 offspring functioning in the adult world, carrying Church and others, is sponsoring a weekend enti(Ages 12 & up) Professioinal Beginners I Acting professional responsibility, working hard. These tled "Faith and Belief in the 21st Century. (Ages 7-12) Pre-Teen Modeling/Etiquette Bishop Spong has been surrounded by controvermoments are natural hvelling moments, times (Ages 8-11) Pre-Teen Beginners I Acting when parents can stand with unabashed pride as sy as a result of his own personal journey from AND Our Latest Addition... they watch their children. For the child being Biblical fundamentalism in the segregated South 0> (Adults) Personal Finishing Touches.. .A 6-week -o Image Perfecting Course designed for you and 3" watched, the moment is often more nerve-wrack- to advocate for justice and reform within the 0> your busy schedule! O ing, but deep down, and especially by the end of church and in society as a whole. On the leading 3 O or (Q We offer a variety of affordable workshops and the visit, most get a kick out of watching their par- edge of movements to bring social justice to all perone~on-dhe consultations 3 ents' wonder and joy. sons, he has also been at the forefront iu promoting •a Call 402-697-9292 for a FREE appointment 3" Jewish/Christian dialogue. Our parasha this-week recounts a similar story. ^.It's not just about a Pretty FACEI In addition to Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, visits Moses Cosmetics • Skincare • Hair • Diet/Nutrition and the Israelites as they are encamped in the Friday's program at wilderness of Sinai. Jethro spends time shadowing Temple, Bishop Moses, watching as his sonsin»slffw leads a people Spong will present a CLIP & SAVE through the tough and trying times of new-nation- series of workshops, sessions OF EVENTS hood. Later, as they are reflecting on the day, education and sermons at Jethro pleads with Moses to make some changes. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 First United MethoJethro, who knew Moses well from their earlier Temple Israel NFTY National Convention, times together in Midian, encouraged Moses to del- dist Church on Friday thru Monday, Out of Town egate his authority, creating lower courts to hear Saturday, March Temple Israel "Shabbat Comes to You", 2 p.m., casea. Jethro saw that Moses was overworked, and 10, and Sunday, at the Rose Blumkin Home could not possibly accomplish all he was attempt- March 11. Rabbi Third Friday Night $habbat Service and ing. So like a good parent, Jethro tempered his Azriel will particir Dinner, 6 p.m., at Beth El praise with suggestions to help Moses work more pate in a Jewish/ SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Christian dialogue | effectively. Federation Super Sunday, 9 aan., Omaha Steaks Saturday afternoon. Jethro's suggestions helped to create a legal sysMONDAY, FEBRAURY 19 A book signing at | tem for the Israelites which, in time, became'a YES Program, 9:30 a.m. Soul Desires BookBishop Spong trademark of the Jewish faith. That such an TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 important element as our legal system could, store in the Old Market is Saturday from 7-9 p.m, BBYO Night, 6 p.m. iemerge from a tale about a father-in-law and his Spong is the author of many books, including JFS Workshop "One Couple Two Faiths," son-in-law speaks volumes about the importance of bestsellers Why Christianity Must Change or Die, 7 pan. family in Torah and Jewish tradition. Ours is a Rescuing the Bible From Fundamentalism and ADL/CRC Executive Committee, 7:30 p.m. faith built on the idea of learning from our ances- Liberating the Gospels: Reading the Bible with Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., at Temple Israel tors, being willing to listen to advice from those Jewish Eyes WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 who came before us. Friday and Sunday worship services and the JFLE Program "The Yellow Dress", 6:30 p.m. book signing reception are free and open to the Moses and Jethro probably never heard about JYG Dinner, 6 p.m., at Temple Israel community. There is a $35 fee for Saturday's workJoplin, MO, much less the significance of their Grade 7-12 Religious School, 6:30 p.m., shops. For a brochure of the events, please contact actions all those years ago. But their contributions at Temple Israel Temple Israel at 556-6536. Temple's portion of the were felt in that town just a few weeks ago. ALEF Class, 7 p.m., at Beth El program is made possible through the Hermene Shabbat Shalom. Beth Israel Rabbi Kutner's Lunch and Learn, Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning. noon, at Noddle Development THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Adult Education, 10 a.m., at Temp]e Israel Winners of Free Tickets . Derekh Torah Class, 7 p.m. LOVE Board Meeting, 7 p.m., at the Announced ——• • — RBJHConfRoom Marci Gallner and Myra Oberman were winners Adult B'nai Mitzvah Class, 7 p.m., at Temple of FREE tickets to Hal + Syluia~be my Valentine at the Omaha Symphony, performing through Feb. Apartment Homes All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The E 18. Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of the Great Location The women correctly answered the question • Extra Storage events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. "Which 'Lady* did Sylvia McNair perform for in the • Fireplaces * Billards Room summer of 1997?" (First 'Lady' Hillary Clinton). • Garages with Openers • Lighted Tennis & The question appeared in the Symphony ad on Available Basketball Courts COMMERCIAL Jan. 26 in the Jewish Press. • Swimming Pool * Walk-in Closets and • Balconies Look forward to more offers for Free tickets in • Clubhouse/Party Room RESIDENTIAL * Central Vacuum upcoming issues. • Fitness Center 1439 So. 13th 341-2452

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February 16,2001

SYNAGOGUES

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

Candlelighting

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FRIDAY: Shabbat Comes to You, 2 p.m., Rabbi Azriel will lead a Shabbat Service ,at the Rose Blumkin Home; Shabbat Service, 8 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Jennifer Blum will officiate. Rabbi Azriel will give the sermon. The Oneg Shabbat will be sponsored by Nau,cy and Phil Wolf in honor of the Bar Mitevah of their son, Alexander. SATURDAY: Bagels and Bible, 9:30-10:15 a.ra. Join us for our continuing study of the Book of Esther; Services, 10:30 a.m. Alexander Wolf will celebrate his Bar Mitevah. SITTER SERVICE Available for Shabbat services Friday evening and Saturday morning, as well as Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Please make reservations through the Temple office. Cost is $2 per family. There are no facilities for infants. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY, Feb. 20: Torah and Haftarah Trope, 11-11:45 pjm, Cantor Jennifer Blum will teach the skills of chanting; Hasidism, 7-8*80 p.m., Professor Guy Matalon will focus on the major theme of Hasidism, the relationship between God and human beings, by focusing on various Hasidic texts. WEDNESDAY, Feb. 21: Mtdrashah, 10 a.m.« noon; Jewish Medical Ethics, 7»8;80 p.m. Dr. Howard Needelman, a Neonatologist and Head of the Ethics Committee at Children's Hospital, will lead this group through the basics of Jewish medical ethics followod by discussions on some of the current controversies in medicine; The Jewish Way in Death find Mourning, 6:U0-7:30 p.m. Rabbi Shlonio Lovin will explore Jewish traditions and cunt,omH Burrounding death, burinl and mourning. THURSDAY, Feb. 22: Adult Study with Rabin Aryeh Azriel, 10-11:30 a.m. Pocuti will bo on the writings of the Seholum-in-Residcnco who will join us this year; Adult B'nai Mitzvah, 7-9 p.m. FRIDAY, Feb. 2{J: "Who's Afraid of the Dead Sea Scrolls?" 10-11:80 turn, Israeli archeologist and UNO Professor Dr. Rami Arav will talk about the content of the Dead Sea Scrolls, the people who wrote them and the community where they were discovered.

Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. .FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 5:45 p.m. The West Minyan is at the home of Donald and Maggie Gerber, 426 S. 126th St. SATURDAY: Shabbos services, 8;45 a.m., Insights into the Parsha class, 5:05 p.m.,; Mincha, 5:85 p.m.; Havdalah, 6:42 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. a n d 5:45 p.m. MONDAY: The first of a two-part class with Rabbi Kutner, 7:80 p.m., "The Crisis in Israel." Rabbi Kutner will speak today and next Monday on his recent experience on the Federation's Solidarity Mission to Israel, Group discussion will follow. TUESDAY: Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner immediately following Ma'ariv, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAYS Business Ethics' Lunch 'n Learn, noon, office of Joe Kirshenbaum, Noddle Development, 13705 First Nat'l Bank Pkwy. Bagel Bin lunch for $8. Call the synagogue officetomake reservation. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 sum. and OsSO p.mju

B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Plume: JJ22-4.705 e-mail:;ctoc:uil>©aol.coin FKXDAYs Services, 7:80 p.m. Discussion topic will be "How does Judaism deal with Reincarnation?" Oneg and kiddueih will follow.

ScrvioaH conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Kosonbaum. Minyan on Monday & T h u r s d a y , 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY; Service^ 8 p.m. SATURDAY; Services, 9:30 a.m.; Lunch ajut Learn Series with Marina Fanrikmit, "Growing Up Jewish in Latvia."

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The only public performance otThe Yellow Dress, a play about domestic violence, will be Monday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m. at The Rose Blumkin Theater for the Performing Arts, 18th and Farnant, according to chairwoman Dr. Patricia Newman, "The Yellow Dress is a one-act play especially designed for high school students to prevent domestic violence and help teach kids how.to have healthy relationships," she explained. The play, along with Remote Control, imother one-act play for middle Hohool students, will be performed. 11 times in the Omaha area. Tickets for the Monday night performance only are $5 or $2.50 for groups of 10 or more and are available by calling The Rose, 345-4849.

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Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. FRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Torah Study, 10 a.m.-noon; Game Night/ Pot Luck, 6 p.m, SUNDAY; Hebrew School, 9 a.m., Religious School,. 10, sum...MONDAY: Adult Hebrew Study/Movies, 7 p.m. TUESDAY; Intro to Judaism, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY: AA Meetinn, library, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAYS Megiltuh pmctico, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, Feb. 28J Hamanta«h«ii Baking Party, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

FE1DAY: Services, 7:80 p.m.

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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. The series of Third Friday Shabbat Dinners continues. SATURDAY: Services, 9:80 a.m., Kiddush following; Free sitter service, 10 a.m.; TSS (Torah and Siddur Skills) Program, 10 a.m.; K'tantan (K3rd grade) will NOT meet this week but will resume on Feb. 24; Shabbat Story Time (pre-K and younger), 11 a.m.; Mishnah study session, 5:50 p . m . , followed by Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah, 5:20 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 0 «.m, and 5J80 pjn.j Perek Yonu", 10el5 tunu, discussion leader is Marty Shukert, ;ADULT.B*NAI.MrrZVAH' CLASS: No class on Feb. 21; resumes on Feb. 28 at 7:80 p.m, .WEEKDAYS!. Services, 8:65 a,m. and 5:80 p.m, '

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.SATURDAY,: Fob. 2 4 - Beth El's chapter of HA55AK will receive its official charter at morning services. A celebration lunch (by reservation only) will follow services, SGIIOLAR'IN-ItESIDENCE FEB. 23-26»Rabbi Michael Graetz. TORAH TROPE CLASS Sunday, Fob, 25, 9:15-10 «,m. For more information, call Cantor Berkovita at '192-8C50. PURIM MASK MAKING Sunday, March 4, noon. For moro information, call Ht'ot.1-I,it.tky uU98'0iKM. SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., led by Beyt Shalom Reconetructioniat Conffrepation. Services are held in the Herbert Goldsten Chapol, followed by Kiddush. '.

Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. MONDAY-FRIDAY: services, 7 a.m. SATURDAY: services, 9:80 a.m. MONDAY: Genesis Lunch Series, 11:46 a.m.I. p.m.; Jewish Mysticism at the JCC, 7-8:30 p.m. TUESDAY: A Tale of Two Souls, 9:30 a.tn.11 p.m.; Bais Midra^h, 7 p.m, ,

FRIDAY: Shabbat in the home; alno a special learnor's minyaji at the synuf;o[;u<\ 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Sorvictis nl. tlwi Koso Blumkin Home ("Ihtipcl, 9 a.m. SUNDAY & TUESDAY: Kolijjioua School at JCO. FRIDAY, Feb. 23: Kabbalat Shabbat, 7-MO p.m.

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mayaandyardenmorand zachary poseover : . are blessed during services and J$r the oneg shabbat In tWr honor. \ frktey, februaryZS, 7fl5p.m, •

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Jewish Press, Omalia, NE

February 16,2001

Wiien We Disagree What happens when we disagree in life of the family. What do synagogues do when there the Jewish community? In large cities, like Miami, Chicago or is disagreement among its members? Atlanta, Jews who disagree with the Judaism has never shied away from spiritual or volunteer leadership of controversy. On the contrary, the their synagogue can easily move their Talmud is filled with disagreementsmembership to another. They can even page after page of rabbis arguing stay within their "movement" as there with one another seem as real today are at least a half dozen of each of the as they must have been hundreds of "Big Three," plus an assortment of years ago. Reconstructionist, Chabad, and even And, of course^ Judaism has a conSecular Humanist congregations in cept of teshuva, repentance. In fact, large Jewish communities. the rabbis note that when a person They can even choose to become has apologized three times and the anonymous, settling for that great "wronged" party still does not accept nameless, faceless group of unaffiliat- the offer, the person asking for fored Jews. Of course, they won't receive giveness is "off the hook." the benefits of membership, and their Do synagogue leaders look to bring children will more than likely be even in opposing factions and make them a less knowledgeable than the parents, part of the process? Do those who almost guaranteeing another lost have a gripe actually sit down with generation of Jews. those in charge to discuss their differOmaha has "one of each." If a con- ences? Do leaders and members listen gregant is dissatisfied with one syna- to one another and try to improve gogue, changing membership also communication? The health of this Jewish communimeans changing movements. Sometimes that works; sometimes it's even ty necessitates cooperation, communinecessary for a family's growth or cation, respect and caring...even needs at that particular time in the when we disagree.

guriHEOIHERQUY

ISSUES

FR01VI ISRAEL by HARRY ALLEN

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This is Election Day in Israel. As I write this, people are going to the more than 8000 polling places throughout the country and if all the polls are correct (and they were), Ariel Sharon will be elected by the largest majority in Israel's history with a margin of some 20 percentage points. If his election takes place, the calculus of a failed peace process will not be altered. The failure of the current process boils down to the ABCs: Arafat, Barak and Clinton. Each bear some responsibility for the demise of the negotiating process but by far the largest share of the blame is Arafat's. Whether or not Arafat really wanted a deal is open to question—most observers think he did not. But whether he did or didn't, he completely misjudged the temper of the Israeli population when as a negotiating ploy he set in motion the current intifada. I truly believe he felt it would be a short-term uprising that he could control and one which would force Israel into blind acceptance of UN resolution 242~going back entirely to the so-called green line as well as allowing a return of the refugees. But even Barak could not concede this much and the intifada spun out of Arafat's control. Instead of trying to contain it--he joined it and played a1 reprise of the traditional anti-Israel venom. His speech at Davos was no accident or momentary slip of chattering lip. Arafat's blunders make any new round of negotiating very, very difficult. Even Shimon Peres or Yossi Beilin orA.vram Burg~the three left-wing harpies who have much to do with Barak's demise—would not be able to sit at Arafat's table these days. Now to actor B-Ehud Barak. Barak's failure was one of style and political ineptitude. His style left the impression that he was something of a lone ranger, getting advice from no one and riding the Israeli range helterskelter. He managed to alienate the left one day, and the next day, to modify those folks (he did not know

that the Israeli left is very venal and not ever mollified). He called for a "secular revolution" and thereby lost the religious elements of Israeli society. As a negotiator, he should have taken a course from Henry Kissinger. He put too much on the plate at one time and got nothing in return. If the first issue was to be borders, okay, then what would he demand from Arafat in return? Barak made a huge mistake by assuming that by putting it all out he could achieve an agreement for a "final solution," and I use the phrase with great trepidation. The truth of the matter is that Barak clearly saw what eventually would have to emerge if the dispute is ever to be settled. But it was simply too much for the Israeli public to digest at one time and not enough to satisfy Arafat's vision of a decimated Israel. And now to actor C--William Jefferson Clinton. Bill Clinton was probably more emotionally tied to Israel than was any previous president. Yitzchak Rabin was kind of a father figure to him. For example, Clinton was, and is, Israel's good friend. That having been said, he erred grievously in his enthusiasm for peace. Like so many Americans who believe in good will, he thought the Arabs are, after all, ^just like us." He is simply wrong. He was too enthusiastic about the possibility of peace and gave in too easily to Barak's timetable. He would have done everyone a great service had he told Barak "no" to a Camp David summit and had not invested so heavily in the entire process. He completely misread the ability of Barak to lead Israeli public opinion, on the one hand, and Arafat's genuine willingness to complete a comprehensive agreement. So, regardless of today's election, there are the ABCs of the peace failure. What lies ahead is a long period of guerrilla warfare on the part of the Palestinians. Israel must be determined to stay the course.

•^JEWISH PRESS

National Ntwapapor Association

Lloyd Roitstoin

(Founded in 1920)

The role of the Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in mooting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers of Excellence of this Federation arc: 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. Deadline for copy, ads and photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. The Jewish Press (USPS 270G20) is published weekly on Friday for $28 per calendar year [J.S.; $32 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402-:i:M-6<148; FAX: 402-334-5422; e-mail editorial material, photos and addrest; changes to: ckatzman@JAwishornaijti.org; send ada (in .T1F or .PDF format) to: mlapout^jewishomaha.org. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, N7i, POSTMASTER: .Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198.

Chairman Carol Katzman Editor-in-Chief Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Larry Axel rod Advertising Manager Alian Handleman Account Executive Barbara Frankel Rocky Stern Sales representatives Marilyn Burns Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant

George Schapiro Volunteer

Jews Must Take Tougher Stance on Arab Anti-Semitism, ADL Says by AVI MACHLIS

JERUSALEM, (JTA)-The Anti-Defamation League is urging Jews to take a tougher stance against anti-Semitism in the Arab and Muslim world, admitting that the Jewish community has been too tolerant of these trends in recent years. Abraham Foxman, National Director of the ADL, made his appeal Sunday at a news conference in Jerusalem, as the organisation warned that'&leading Holocaust denial group is planning a conference in Beirut on March 31. The Lebanon gathering of the California-based Institute of Historical Review would be the first time a major Holocaust denial-forum has met on Arab soil. According to the ADL, the "Revisionism and Zionism" conference marks a new strategy for Holocaust deniers, who are reaching out to sympa~ thetic populations and regimes in the Arab and Islamic world. In recent years, Foxman said, the organized Jewish community has been too tolerant of antiSemitism in the Arab world because the Israeli government turned the other cheek in order to advance the peace process. However, Foxman said, Israel and the Jewish community must realize now that anti-Israeli and anti-Semitic incitement is partly to blame for the current crisis. It is time to have a "much higher standard of intolerance" for Arab and Muslim anti-Semitism, Foxman said, and "the same standards should apply" to the Arab world as to European countries. "We need to put it higher up on the agenda," he said. Foxman said the formation of a national unity government in Israel would make it much easier for American Jewish groups to lobby for Israel in Washington. The remarks came as Ariel Sharon, Israel's prime minister-elect, pressed ahead with efforts to bring the Labor Party into his government, offering them two of the top three portfolios—the Defense, Foreign or Finance ministries-should they join.

JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Prod Tichauer, Vice-Chairman; Joanie Jacobaon, Secretary; Howard Silber, Treasurer; Elyce Amel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Penny Endelman; Kip Gordman; Gary Kudym; Howard K. Marcus; Linda Saltzman; Steve Simon; Amce Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member), Editorials express the view of the writer and are. not necessarily representative of the views of the .Jewish Proan Committee, the Jewish Federation of Omaha or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole. The Jewish Press r<.«rv<!« the right to edit letters and articles for apace and coftUmfc. The Jowiiih Press is not imuonaible for the Kiishruth of any product or establishment.

February 16,2001

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 5 IT 4..VJ

My Children, the Bight-Wing Fanatics by TEDDY WEINBERGER-

My children are smiling these days, flush with the landslide victory of Ariel Sharon over Ehud Barak. They snarfed down Sharon's propaganda and campaign slogans like so many colorful candies: Barak is against Jerusalem, Sharon will stand guard over it; Barak is dividing the country, Sharon will unite it; Barak kowtows to Arafat, Sharon instills fear in him. There simply was no reasoning with my children about this election. If the topic came up and I would say "I'm voting for Barak," they would start screaming at me, telling me I was a lunatic. (My kids also told me that when they discussed the elections with their friends, they could not tell anyone that they had a parent who was going to vote for Barak—the social flak they would have to take would have been intolerable). To say that my children and I don't share the same world view concerning the Arab/Israeli conflict, therefore, does not get at the intensity of the situation. My children (ages six-13) are quite clear about where they stand in the Arab/Israeli conflict; God gave us this Land, and so all of this Land-including all of Jerusalem-is ours; even if you leave God out of the discussion, there should be no territorial concessions to the Arabs sine© we won everything fair and square; and negotiating with the Arabs is foolhardy because their ultimate goal is not peaceful coexistence but "Palestine judenrein".

My children have no doubt about their political positions, Though I tike to claim we live in a community that just happens to be across the Groon Line, it's'no coincidence that'the voice of the Israeli left is not to be found in the public spaces of Givat Ze'ev. We might be the wimpy West Bank (along with Ma'aleh Adumim, Givat Ze'ev is known as a "quality-of-life" suburb rather than a religious settlement), but we are still in "occupied

territory." So it's not surprising that the Givat Ze'ev "street" is right-wing. And then there's the kids' school. While there are dovish, religious Israelis and even several religious peace groups, these voices are relatively few. It would be unrealistic to think these voices would be heard in the Givat Ze'ev public religious school; indeed, at school children are not informed of any merits concerning Palestinian claims. The children do manage, however, to stay very well informed about the latest incidents of Palestinian violence against Israeli Jews, and they exult in their powerful feelings of righteous anger and indignation. In America, politics was so simple and so removed from my life while I was growing up. There was no question of ever differing with my parexits over a preferred candidate for office. If you were a Jewish child (especially if you lived in New York), you favored the Democratic candidate. In Israel, my children were energized by the recent campaign for Prime Minister because they "knew" a victory for Barak would mean that they would soon not be able to ever visit the Kotel (Western Wall) again, and they "knew" a Sharon victory would allow them to continue living in their home in Givat Ze'ev. My only hope vis a vis my children's political sensibilities is to ascribe their current behavior to their immaturity. I mean, it's not like I'm always able to have roaaonod, tolerant discussions when it comes to other areas of clinputo botwoon UH (bedtimoa, Bweete, computer games, etc.). One day they'll settle down and I wi lay out the full power of my left-win, arguments, fruit of 17 years of stud and work in that American liber sanctuary known as academia. An they will lay out their own films; right-wing arguments, .and soon re ize the shabbi ness of those argumerv And there will be peace over the Land,

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February 16, 2001

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Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 sum. Try your luck at bingo with Eileen Remer at 10:15 aon.. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 sum. Following lunch at noon, Carol Katzman, Jewish Press Editor, will speak. For transportation, call 330-4272. WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those going on the day trip to Bluffs Run Casino on Thursday, please meet at the JCC by 8:45 a.m. For transportation to the JCC, call Maggie at 334-6521. VISIONS Membership Luncheon Meeting is Friday, March 16, 12:30 p.m., at Venice Inn. Sandra Reding, Director of Development of the Omaha Botanical Gardens, will speak. Send reservations by March 9 to Wally Elkon, 1005 N. 63rd St., Omaha, NE 68132. Cost is $7.50. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services. Visit the Archway Monument and Pioneer Village on Tuesday, April 24. Cost is $79 per person. Depart from the JCC at 7:30 a.m.; return at 9:30 p.m.'Send reservations with payment by March 15 to Betty Sanford, 9205 Western, Omaha, NE 68114. Make check payable to Visions. JEWISH WOMEN INTERNATIONAL JWI will sponsor its annual Sweetheart Day on T h u r s d a y , F e b . 22, 1:30 p.m., at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Maxine Noodell will sing, accompanied by Esther Wax. Sylvia Davis is chairperson of the event; Frieda Krizelman is President. BTMAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Eddie Staton, National President of Mad Dads, will speak at Breadbreakers, according to Al Abramson. Breadbreakers meets every Wednesday at noon at the Park Inn Regency, 107th and Pacific. The program is open to the community. Cost for lunch is $9; for beverage service only, $2. NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN John Slowiaczek will speak on "Family Violence from an Attorney's Point of View" at NCJW's Monthly EcJucutum Series on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 7-8:30 p.m., in the Community Room at the JCC. There is no charge and refreshments will be! served..RSVP to Danielle! Gordman at 343-1435. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING SATURDAY, FEB. 17, 4:45 p.m., Rabbi Shlomo Levin hosts a class on the weekly Torah portion at his home, 2001 N. 56th. TUESDAY, FEB. 20, 7 p.m., Beit Midrash at Chabad house. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 21, noon, Lunch 'n learn meets in the JCC library. The topic will be "Amalek, the ancestors of Haman: What did they do that was so wrong?" Please bring a lunch. THURSDAY, FEB. 22, 10 a.m., Torah Time for Tots, hosted by Hadas Orbach at her home. Call 697-5531; Talmud, Tractate Shabbat, 7 p.m., hosted by Bob and Myra Oberman at their home.

LAMOF/NACHER Meredith Jo Lainof, daughter of Wayne and Carole Lainof, and Robert Abraham Nacher, son of Susan and Stewart Nacher, announce their engagement. The bride-to-be earned a B.A. from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville and an M.S. in Family Centered Care from Wheelock College, Boston. She is currently studying at Neve Yerushalayim in Jerusalem. She is the granddaughter of Bill and Marie Hack of Riverton, NJ, and the late Robert and Kate Lainof. Her fiance studied Computer Technology at Trenton State University, NJ. He is currently studying at Ohr Samayach Yeshiva, Jerusalem. He is the grandson of Sarah Nacher and the late Louis Nacher, and the late Rebecca and Nate Wilks. A March 14 wedding is planned in Jerusalem.

Paula and Matt Boggust announce the Jan 31 birth of their son, John Harrison "Harry." Harry has a sister, Annie, 2, Grandparents are Nancy and David Friedland and Marilyn and Jack Boggust of Del Mar, CA, Susan and Isaac Witkowski announce the Jan. 10 birth of their daughter, Oabrielle Liana, named for her great-grandfather, Leon Fellman. Grandparents are Richard and Beverly Fellman of Omaha and Ruben and Thelma Witkowski of Scranton, PA. Great-grandparents are Harold and Dina Bloom of Omaha.

by ART GROSSMAN •

—

The decorations and atmosphere were symbolic of Hanukkah, but the regular calendar day road Feb. 5. The authentic first day of the holiday was Dec. 21, tho 24th day of Kislw. Why the discrepancy? Our semi-arctic winter hit us on the original day with the whole Megillahsnow, sleet, icy streets—so'the party was called off. As it turned out, there were approximately 100 of our folks in attendance. The day was designated Winter Party, and Hanukkah gifts were distributed. Musical entertainers were vocalist Maxine Noodell and pianist Esther Wax. At "Yes Talk", 'Israel's Prime Minister election was a hot topic. Hot topic #2 was the casinos in the Bluffs, Good or Bad? Arguments were made for both positions. Our entertainment for the Jan. 22 meeting was provided by Master Organist Larry Otto of Lowrey Organ Center. For his concluding number, he played a march that inspired a dozen ladies to join a parade high stepping around the tables. We joined in a moment of reverent respect in memory of Reba Axler, Irene Saltzman, Anita Wintroub, Molly Rhodes, Dorothy Bernstein Rogoff and Bernard Cohn. Shalom,

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Singer Memorial Fund Grant Applications Due by C L A U D I A S H E R M A N ———— •• • " Foundation Public Relations Coordinator

Beth El HAZAK Group to Receive Charter •• -

Members of the Lazier L. Singer Memorial Fund for Youth will meet on April 26 to consider grant requests and approve allocations. The committee meets annually to provide support for programs dealing with problems and issues facing Jewish youth who are under the age of 20 and live in the Omaha metropolitan area. Applications requesting funds, along with a detailed outline of expenses and other income, are due by April 16 at 1 pan. at the office of the Jewish Federation Foundation, 333 So. 132 St. Programs that address issues of alcohol and drug use, sexuality, eating disorders, intrafamily relations, violence and gangs, suicide and depression, and Jewish identity are among the problems the Singer Memorial Fund will consider for grants. These programs may be both preventive and remedial and designed to serve individuals within the targeted group and their families. Favorable consideration by committee members will be given to programs that are a collaborative effort between Federation agencies, synagogues, Jewish youth organizations, and other Jewish groups. In general, new projects that provide meaningful experiences rather than lecture-type formats are preferred. The committee also favors programs that involve family-oriented content. Harriet Singer established the Singer Memorial Fund in 1996 in memory of her husband, Lazier Singer. He was concerned about the problems teenagers face in today's society. Anyone applying for funds who has questions can call Laurie Grasso at 834 6489, or Marty Ricks at 334-6440 at The Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha.

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Rabbi Michael Graetz to Speak a t Beth El by JEWISH PRESS News Service - — - — — Rabbi Michael Graetz will.be Beth El Synagogue's Scholar-in-Residence on Feb.24-25. Rabbi Graete, who lives in Omer, Israel, is the spiritual leader of Mageii Avraham Congregation. During Shabbat morning services on Feb. 24, Rabbi Qraete will deal with the question,1-"Israel: Home for Conservative Jews?" He will examine the current Masorti efforts in Israel as ifc relates to Mishpatim, the week's Torah portion. At the HAZAK luncheon following services, the prescription will be, "Take Two Tablets..,", a study session about the giving of the Torah, On Sunday, F©b, 28, at 10:15 a»m., in recognition of Adar, the month in which Furim falls. Rabbi Grnetss wilt offer "A Real Mogillah"—a communal reading of the Book of Esther with his own personal interpretation uml commentary. The cm tire community in invited l.ci nltond. For more infonuntiou, call Both 101 nl. '192-HRr>0,

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Last December, Beth El Synagogue's "seasoned citizens" met to form the first HAZAK Chapter in the Central States and Provinces Region of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. And on Saturday, Feb. 24, during Shabbat morning services, the chapter will receive its charter from Lou Meltzer, National HAZAK Chair. HAZAK is a new organization sponsored by USCJ. Specifically designed to address the needs of mature Jews—married couples, singles, divorced people or surviving spouses—chapters are being formed in Conservative congregations all over North America. "We're proud that Beth El formed the first chapter in our Region," said Howard Ruback, a past president, who now serves as the regional HAZAK chairman. In many synagogues where programming priorities are often targeted to younger congregants, HAZAK fills a special need. According to Susie Drazen, Program Director, "People over 60 are the fastest growing segment of our Jewish communities. HAZAK provides social, spiritual and educational programs geared to and for our more mature congregants. After all, why should teenagers be the only ones having fun?" Serving as six-month interim officers are: President, Wally Elkon; Vice-president, Jim Wax; Treasurer, Ilae Kahn; Recording Secretary, Marcel Kahn; Corresponding Secretary, Rita Novak; Membership Chairmen, Rosalie and Sam Epstein; Program Chairmen, Phil and Babe Rattier. HAZAK is an acronym, Het, stands for Hokhmah (wisdom); Zayin for Ziknah (maturity) and the Kaf, stands for Kadlma (looking ahead). The HAZAK Charter Granting will bo followed by a kiddush, after which the HAZAK group plans a Celebration Lunch, by renorvntjon only, chaired by Doris and Nato Shukort. Coat, ifl $5 for HAZAK members; $7.50 for tum-nuuubfira. Reservations am duo Fob. 21 and can he mndo by calling tho offico, 492-8560.

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February 16,2001

We Don't Live ITS a Perfect World (Continued from page 1) come her desperate situation. Rockman and Goldberg contacted Howard and Sharon Kooper and Tom and Darlyn Fellman. Both couples agreed to contribute to Samantha's care. "Wendy and Stacey should be commended for bringing this issue to the forefront and getting the fundraising ball rolling," said Howard Kooper, immediate Past President of the Federation. "Childcare cost for infanta will continue to rise. Our Jewish community must establish the resources to subsidize daycare for those who need it. We're facing the reality that many middle- and lower-income working families need and deserve high-quality, Jewish daycare but can't afford it." Goldberg said she and Rockman are thankful for the Koopers and Pellmans generosity, but emphasized, "Contributing to a scholarship fund for infant daycare at the CDG should be everyone's concern; its existence is essential for our community's longterm health. This is a call to action for Jewish Omaha. I'm asking everyone to please make a contribution in any amount to the Jewish Childcare Scholarship Fund," she said. "Our ultimate goal is that no Jewish child in. Omaha will be denied access to the CDC due to lack of funds," added Rockman. "The problem is that each time we discover a family who needs help, we have to scramble for money. An established scholarship would put an end to that frantic search and increase privacy for the recipients by involving fewer people," she explained. Shortly after Samantha was happily settled at the CDC, Director Allen Kurland learned of Alan and Rachel Goldman's predicament. In Part One of our series (Feb. 9 issue of the Jewish Press), the Goldmans were forced to close their family business due to a series of unforeseen expenses. While Alan built their business, Rachel cared for their five children. When the business closed, however, Rachel realized she would have to go to work to supplement the lower income Alan earned at his new job. The Goldmans are proud of their Jewish identity

and they desperately wanted their three youngest children, ages 18 months, 21/2 and 4, to be cared for at the CDC. But they soon discovered the cost of daycare was far beyond their current means. The Goldman's guardian angel came in the form of Kathy Simon. By sheer coincidence, Simon had contacted Jewish Family Service Director Steve Stiel with an extraordinary proposal. She wanted to "sponsor" a needy child's tuition at the Child Development Center. Over the past few years, Simon watched with pride as her grandchildren thrived in the CDC's nurturing, homelike environment. On Shabbat, she listened to their strong, confident voices sing the prayers and Sabbath songs. It delighted her that they knew both the English alphabet and the Hebrew aleph-bet! As her grandchildren happily blossomed at the Child Development Center, Simon realized their experience at the CDC had to be shared. She saw she could make an incredible difference in the life of a needy child by sponsoring the cost of tuition for the daycare and preschool programs at the CDC. Jewish Family Service Director Steve Stiel was amazed by her proposal. Her idea was intriguing, and incredibly generous. The only thing left to do was to locate a child who would benefit from Simon's compassion. Stiel logically started by going to where the children are. Soon, he was telling CDC Director Allen Kurland about Simon's sponsorship offer. Sometimes the elements miraculously all come together, and Kurland saw that the answer to the Goldman's predicament had just been dropped in his lap. Simon does not know the true identity of the child she is sponsoring, and the family on the receiving end of her gift will never be sure where the funds originated. In Judaism, an act of charity is raised to a higher level of tzedakah when the donor does not know who will benefit from their mitzvah. The experiences of the Goldmans are based on real family and situations. To protect their privacy, their names have been changed and specific details have boon omitted. What remains true is the impact that Simon's THE JEWISH unprecedented gesture will have on the life of a child- and a family's peace COMMUNITY CENTER of mind. IS SEEKING CARING, ENTHUSIASTIC Regardless of whether the Goldmans received STAFF FOR SUMMER CAMP. the scolarship from

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Simon or were funded through another private donor, Kurland feels the timing of Simon's offer and the family's situation was b'shert, or meant to be. "Here was a hard-working, proud Jewish family who lost almost everything they'd worked for. But instead of feeling sorry for themselves, they pulled together and looked for work. The hardest thing for them is that for the first time, someone other than Rachel would care for her children. But Rachel and Alan accepted the reality that they both needed to work to support their five children," said Kurland. "Simon's desire to share the positive experience her grandchildren have at the CDC is incredibly heartwarming. She acted out of the goodness of her heart and the desire to share with a less fortunate child the same enthusiasm for Jewish learning she sees in her grandchildren," he added. Everyone involved agreed to share their experiences, not for personal accolades, but to publicize an enormous need. . .one that must be addressed by everyone in the Omaha Jewish community. "There are two things that I've learned from Marcie and Samantha Fischer and the Goldman family," related Howard Kooper. "Number one: there are Jewish families in Omaha who desperately need daycare for their young children, but can't afford the cost of a high-quality facility like the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center. Number two: the need for scholarship funds for Jewish daycare is irrefutable. "Wendy's and Stacey's work, coupled with Simon's unselfish act, is inspiring. They saw a growing need in our Jewish community and took action. Because of them, Jewish families with financial needs will have a fighting chance. That, to me, is what Judaism and tzedakah are all about," Kooper added. Federation President Forrest Knitter commended those who have stepped forward with true compassion to assist these Jewish families. "The establishment of scholarship funds for daycare costs is a prime example of our community responding to the changing environment," ho stated. "AH new challenges arise within the Omaha Jewish community, we must act decisively to address our changing needs," he added. Contributions to the Scholarship Fund for Jewish Childcare can be mailed to The Jewish Community Center of Omaha, c/o Jeffrey Aizenberg, Executive Director, 333 South 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154. For confidential financial aid inquires, please contact the JELS office at 334-6445.

February 16,2001

I Jewish Humor & the Internet

llii'iliiiiilliiiiil. by MARK MIETKIEWICZ

,

Jewish Press, Omaha, ME Page 9

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Q: Noah's ark was built in three stories, and the MATZAH5.WAV. This one is called "Matzah No. 5." come. Sure enough, Elijah points out two top story had a window to let light in. But how did I really love that Hanukkah--it lasts eight jesters. they get light to the bottom two stories? nights; "There's a holy power to humor," Telushkin A: They used floodlights. A little bit of Passover is all right. says. "It's healing. It can keep us from becoming http://ezra.mtsjhu.edu/~rabbians/humor/rid- A really big bar mitzvah is what I had; fanatics. It makes us recognize imperfections. And dles.html I'm moving to Miami just like my dad, when something bad happens, humor keeps us Oyl Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year; from feeling that the bad is the only reality," OK, Purim is just a few weeks away and to get in I really like a bagel with some shmeer. If you would like to listen to some humor in the the mood, so that means it's time for my annual My mother's name is Esther, my dad is Stan; Mammaloshn, you're in luck, JewishMusic.com look at Jewish humor on the Internet. But first, a I like to go and see Barbra Streisand. offers generous Yiddish excerpts of classic routines disclaimer. I try to recommend sites which enterAnyone who has ever strained their eyes try- from masters like Dzigan & Shumacher, Shmulik tain but you never really know what you're going to ing to decipher the strange symbols or hechsh- Segal and Mike Burstein: come across. So be warned. ers attesting to the kashrut of a product will be www.haruth.coni/YiddishHiiinor.htiiil. The online Jewish Magazine includes a hefty sup- thankful for the listing of Reliable Kosher Speaking of Yiddish, we all know that many of ply of jokes in every issue: wwwjewishmag.com. Supervision; www.kashrus.org/kosher/sym- that language's words have enriched the English A sample: Harry was a good and pious man who bol.html, provided by Rabbi E. Eidlitz, author language, Someone has taken the time to search all was greeted by G-d after he passed away. G-d of Is it Kosher? You'll find 50 kashrut symbols the words in the Oxford English Dictionary with asked him if he was hungry, and they shared a can from Canada, England, Prance, Israel and the Yiddish in etymology field and came up with over a of tuna. Meanwhile, Harry noticed that way down United States. But it seems they missed a few hundred such as heimish, narrischkeit, tchotchke, in. the other place, people were feasting on caviar, kashrut bodies that JewishAmerica has stum- zaftig and glitzy: http://liberty.ue.witt.edu/ wtuw.jewishamerica,comIjalfea- -hblackme/oed/yiddish.html. But I particularly champagne, lamb, truffles and brandy, Harry bled on: tures I humor.cfm. asked why all he gets is tuna. like a list of words in "Yinglish" or "Yidlish," These "To be honest, Harry," G-d said, "for two people, it • K sera sera: Hashgachah given by the more words sound like they came from Yiddish but really are English^ http{//rtt.colorado,edu/'-biasca/ doesn't pay to cook." wwwJewisjhmag.com/25 liberal branches of Judaism; jfake_yid.html. Some examples: bedridden, mag/humor/ humor.htm. • I'm OK, you're OK: Under the supervision boxkite, canticle, conniption, epistle and farfetched. With so many Jewish comedians out there, where of the Orthodox Psychiatric Association; would you start if you wanted to honor them? How • KO: Hashgachah of t h e World Boxing (Try them out loud!) about Alan King and Carl Reiner? The National Federation; Lovers of poetry will be familiar with haiku, Foundation for Jewish Culture presented its first three-lined Japanese poems usually composed of • Mary K: Under strict supervision of award to actor/comedian/boxer/Catskills tummler Cosmetics Association; Eve, seven and five syllables, Well, David M. Bader Alan King, And its second award went to Carl • KGB: Russian kashgachah—no longer reliable. has performed a bit of cross-cultural pollination, in Reiner, award-winning writer, director, performer Let's continue my look at the best of Jewish hie Haiku® for Jews (For You, A Little Wisdom): and half of the 2000 Year Old Man duo, located a t : Humor on the Internet. First, a look at why www.extremely.com with soma more samples at; www.lSminutesmagaasine.com/arcliives/Isswe Jews have embraced humor. One of the best www.uta.lWAST/USl/K.EF/yidh'uim.htKil, %2008/natiojmI Jfotmdatiott.htm. experts is Rabbi Joseph Telushkin, author of la one Nobel Prize so much to ask from a child You can listen to generous excerpts of the classic Jewish Humor: What the Best Jokes Say About after att I've done? skits with Heiner as Mel Brooks shares his millen- the Jews www.sun-sentittel.com/lreetiine/daily'/ ShatnerandNimoy observing Shabbasnial memories. "I have over 42,000 children, And detail/0,1130,65OOOO0OOOOB1667,OO,html. "Scatty, beam up a minyan." not one comeB to visit me.M www.haruth.coin/ In his book, Rabbi Telushkin tells this joke: JhumorListenG.html. After that, take in an "A group of retirees meets in a Tel Aviv coffee- Seven'foot Jews in the NBA slam-dnnking-interview with Carl Reiner at Virtual Jerusalem house to discuss the world's many problems, tny alarm clock rings. radio: www.vjradio.com/luminanryfhlm. One of them ahocka hin friends by announcing: you have a joke to share or would you like to Speaking of Carl Reiner, William Swislow argues "I'm an optimist." Another tit»kn: "Then why do getDo a regular in your mail box? Subscribe to that despite itu oust, Carl Keinor'n Dick Van Dyktt you look so worried?" Answer: "You think it'g an e-mail list supply andI jokes will be delivered to you on Show was one of the moat Jewish sitcom TV had easy to be tin optimist" a regular baais: wwwijhumor.com/newsletter. seen until Seinfeld made its appearance: Rabbi Tolushkin explains "Jews hold a hope phpS Or you can take yoru chance on a random www.intereHtingideas.com/ii/rob,htm. against hope, n realization that life is filled joke from jHumor.com: wwwjhumor.com/rand. A while back, Lou Bega came out with the popu- with responsibility, and that wo should laugh. . pbp3. Every time you click on that link, a different lar tune Mambo No. 5. "A little bit of Monica in my .Jews are optimists with worried faces." joke will be appear on your screen, life/A little bit of Erica in my life. . ." Catchy? He relates a talmiiclic story about Klijah visitMark Mietkiewicz is a Toranto~hased televisionPerhaps. But I prefer listening to rmothor version by ing a marketplace. A rabbi, recognizing the producer who write*), lectures and teaches about "Louis Bagel" that has popped up on the Internet: prophet, asks who is destined for the life to the Jewish Internet, He can be contacted at: highhttp://meinbers.theglobc.com/hwebdesign/ way#hoja»<s.com.

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Page 10 JewisH Press, Omaha, NE

February 16, 2001

A Pivotal Journey: birthright Israel, Winter 2000 by MARC RICKS, Special to the JEWISH

PRESS rr*————

'

——

Last fall, I was fortuiiate to receive already been written in the Book of a spot in a lottery for a free trip to Life during the High Holidays, so Israel, courtesy of birthright Israel. whatever G-d had in store for her was The organization, founded by chair- beyond her power-might as well go! men Charles Bronfman and Michael As we gathered for the first time at Steinhardt, sends thousands of Jews JFK airport in New York, we learned between the ages of 18-26 to Israel for that a number of people had with10 days in the summer and winter. drawn in the last few days, while still The only requirement is that the indi- others simply decided not to show up vidual not have been on a " p e e r at the airport. Although they lost only group" trip to Israel. a $250 deposit, our trip planner, an Shorashim like many other .participants, I had organization called been to Israel before with my family in (Hebrew for "roots") had lost the 1987. This did nothing to dampen my opportunity to take many more young enthusiasm for seeing Israel 13 years people to Israel. From three busloads and the equivalent of two more on the later, with a group of young people. In December, two weeks before I waitlist, Shorashim would now be left for Israel, one of the members of taking just two busloads to Israel. Throughout the trip, the issue of my group circulated an e-mail to the rest of the group with the following security continued to be a quiet but dilemma: her mother was undergoing enduring issue that remained, for the a panic attack at the thought of her most part, below the surface. Much of daughter traveling to the Middle East Israel, including many of the most at such a volatile time; were the par- . popular tourist destinations, is far ents of other participants offering the from the unrest featured so promisame objections, and were people still nently on CNN. Although terrorist attacks have brought the issue closer planning to make the trip? to some locales, these incidents have Although none of us had met, the been infrequent enough that for most flurry of responses was an indicator of Israel, life goes on as before the of the group energy and camaraderie that would characterize the entire recent intifada. trip. Several group members quickly As we traveled through the barren replied that nothing would stop them Negev desert, floated in the dense from making the journey, a journey Dead Sea, partied in sun-drenched that generated excitement palpable Eilat, and sang karaoke in cosmopolieven in the e-mail. tan Tel Aviv, it was hard to believe One woman noted that her fate had the proclamations of a near state of

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Elementary school children io Gilo-in the background are sandbags All photos by Marc Ricks, in the school windows. war. Although tourists can easily windows, with new bulletproof glass avoid trouble spots, our organizers on the ground ready to be installed. chose to take us into one Jerusalem On at least one occasion, the school suburb--Gilo~located across the road itself has been under fire while class from an Arab village where frequent was in session, with students taking exchanges of gunfire have occurred. cover under their desks. We spent a morning with elementary Fortunately, we faced no such danschool children, sharing songs and ger. Only occasionally did concerns words of peace. for our security (reinforced by tightMoments after we started games of ened government regulations and soccer and jump rope on the school birthright israel policy) interfere even playground, we began to notice, one- in the slightest. by-one, the sandbags stacked in the (Continued on page 11)

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birthright isr^ei (Continued from page 10) • For example, we took a longer route to the Dead Sea from Ben-Gurion airport to avoid the West Bank, and spent an abbreviated evening in Jerusalem due to the threat of unrest after a massive demonstration against the division of Jerusalem (the unrest never materialized). The two guards on each bus armed with 60-yearold Czech rifles served primarily as additional traveling companions. The topic of security arose most frequently during late-night discussions on the peace process, and when members of the group noticed the shocking lack of tourists. If there is one point I can make in this piece, it is that, at least today, most of Israel remains a very safe place to visit. . ' With concerns for our security safely in the background, we concentrated on enjoying ourselves throughout 10 days of adventure from the southern tip of Israel all the way to the Galilee and the Golan in the north. Modern Israel, it is commonly said, is a land of contrasts. So, too, was our trip. One night saw us stuffing ourselves with falafel and schwarma on Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem; the next morning featured a solemn visit to the holocaust memorial at Yad VaShem, We marveled at the Hasidic Jews davem'ng at the Western Wall, and smiled when one casually answered his cell phone. We drank and danced into the evening during our first night in the resort town of Eilat, but went to bed early the next night to be ready for a sunrise climb up Mount Shlomo, with panoramic views stretching to Egypt, Jordan, and even Saudi Arabia, The trip even ended with a striking contrast: as we waited an hour-and-a-half for our bags in a snowed-in JFK upon our return, we passed the time by chatting with a stereotypical-looking

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 11

Registration for birthright (Continued from page 1) birthright Israel is a unique partnership between the people of Israel through their government, local Jewish communities (including The Jewish Federation of Omaha) United Jewish Communities, Keren Hayesod, and The Jewish Agency for Israel), and Jewish philanthropic partners in North America. For more information on Spring 2001 trips and to learn more about the birthright israel gift, participants can call 1-888-99-ISRAEL, or visit the website at: www.birthrightisrael.com.

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Top photo; Members of the group framed by a sunrise on top of Mount Shlomo; bottom: The group in the Old City with the Dome of the Rock in the background, towards the latter group, who had denied those on the waitlist the opportunity to make the trip by canceling at the last minute. Both groups lost far more than a $250 deposit. Those of us who traveled to Israel felt, I beliove, a sense of pride thnt we had made the journey despite the unrest. In our hearts, we knew this was the most important time to travol to Israel, to show our unwavering tuipport for its people. We were rewarded for our resolve not only with a joyous adventure, but also with genuine1 gratitude from a number ofInrueliH. In a letter to participants after this winter's) trip, Bronfman and Stoinhurdt qnoLod an. Israeli teacher who said after observing the Birthright Israel Mega Event in January, "Seeing these young people-it was the only bright spot wo in Israel have had these days. It was a real Jewish happening."

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Hasidic Jew who taught philosophy in Jerusalem, while on the side he played guitar in a rock band and attended PMsh concerts (like the new Grateful Dead) in Miami, As our trip came to a close, I couldn't help but think of the many young people who received birthright israel slots and withdrew immediately* as well as those who backed out at the last minute. I felt sorry for the former group, who miesed out on such a wonderful opportunity. I felt some anger

Bronftnan and Steinhardt concluded their letter by writing, "We undenstand many of you undertook this journey with some trepidation. We hope your birthright israel experience was a pivotal' one and that it will stay with you always." It was, and it will. Marc, the son. of Omaha residents Marty and M s Ricks, lives in New York City. Feel free to e-mail questions about the program to him at:

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February 16,2001

Kids' Super Sunday 2001: A Jewish OdysseyWas a Blast! fay PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director

A record turn out of more than 250 kids and their parents invaded the JCC for Kids' Super Sunday 2001: A Jewish Odyssey, donating more than $350 towards the Jewish Federation of Omaha's Annual Campaign. The space theme was inspired by the classic movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, and included a "galaxy" of games, prizes, a moonwalk, a free "space meal" provided by Zio's, a clown, juggler-comedian the Amazing Arthur and storytelling by Nancy Rips. Special recognition goes to the more than 30 volunteers, including 15 members of BBYO, who kept things running smoothly. E d s ' Super Sunday involves children in Omaha's religious schools, the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center, JCC Youth Services and Friedel Jewish Academy in the act of tzedakah. The 2001 Super Sunday Steering Committee included: Mark and Kim Schwartz, Chairs; Gil Cohen; Victor Epstein; Steve and Patty Goldstein; and Deb and Dan Marburg. The following businesses donated thensupport for Kids* Super Sunday: Baker's Supermarkets, Hollywood Video, MidContinent Bottlers, No-Frills Super-markets, Nobbies, Omaha Compound, Praxair, Inc., andZio's."

• ' '. ' ' •'

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. . .the Odyssey Continues With the 2001 Super Sunday Telethon Volunteers will make calls on S u p e r S u n d a y , F e b . 18, 9 a . m . - n o o n , from Omaha Steaks telemarketing center, helping to raise funds for the 2001 Jewish Federation of Omaha's Annual Campaign. Co-chairs Mark and Kim Schwartz are confident they will surpass their goal of $50,000.

Clockwise, from- left: 2001 Saper Sunday Cochairman Mark Sebwartz paints a "cosmic" design on the efaeek of Beyn Watanabe, as sister, Cora, looks on; Nancy Bips mesmerized cfaildren witli her storytelliiig talent as part of the celebration; Molly Helm tries her luck at the Global Bean Bag Toss, one of many "spaee-themecP activities enjoyed at Kids* Super Sunday. The goal of Super Sunday is to involve as many people as possible in participating in the Jewish Money donated to the Annual Campaign supports community, as well as in the act of tzedakah. and enhances Jewish life here in Omaha and all For more information, or to make your conteibuover the world. Contributors to Super Sunday and the Annual Campaign are essential to our commu- tion, please contact the Jewish Federation office at 334-6431, or e-mail: pmonsky<igewish©madha»org nity's survival.

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White It's hard to imagine, there are Jewish families who literally do not know where their next meal is coming from. Remember, your gift to the Jewish . Federation of Omaha's Annual Campaign helps locaJ Jewish families meet thefr most basic needs, such as food and shelter.

"There aren't any Jews who go to bed hungry in Omaha."

"Omaha's such a small Jewish community and everyone's connected or involved with Jewish life here."

Fortunately, Omaha's Jewish community has a very high affiliation rate, but there are those who, for .whatever reason, are not involved with our Jewish community. But they are still part of the "family" and when they need help, we won't turn our backs on them.

Sadly, some of our seniors must continue to work well past retirement age. Medical costs and lack of affordable insurance contribute to the fact that many seniors are one paycheck away from being homeless.

"Omaha's Jewish senior citizens can all iook forward to a comfortable and fulfilling retirement."

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"It doesn't really matter whether give to the Federation Campaign or not. My donation won't make a difference."

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Whether you can afford to give $5 or $50,000, your participation in the simple act of tzedakah is essential to the survival of the Jewish people. When you give to the Campaign, you are confirming that as Jews, we are each responsible for one another. And by the way, $5 will help deliver a hot, kosher meai to a hornebound senior or food to a needy Jewish family.

§iak@ Your Increased ©iff to the 2001 Annual Campaign Todayl