Vol. LXXX
No. 43
Omaha, ME
28 AV, 5761
August 17,2001
SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 80 YEARS
Women's 2002
Rabbi Drazen Accepts New Position
Campaign Seeks New Territory
by OZZIE NOGG After nearly 20 years as spiritual leader of Beth El Synagogue, Rabbi Paul Drazen will step down at the end of June, 2002, to assume the position of Executive Director of the newly-formed MidContinent Region of the Untied Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. The announcement came last week in a letter from Rabbi Drazen to the Beth El Board and congregation. Rabbi Drazen, his wife, Susie, and their then twoyear-old daughter, Giia, came to Beth El in August of 1982. The Drazen's son,Yoni, was born in 1984. In his letter to the congregation, fiafobi Drazen said, "Through nearly two decades we have been privileged to share all life brings with the Beth El family: the good, the not-so-good, the times of sadness and, happily, many opportunities to celebrate. My family and I have grown, matured, learned and gained much from being in Omaha.
by PAM MONSKY
Federation Communications Director— H I Joanie Jacobson and Patty Nogg are leading the 2002 Women's Campaign of the Jewish Federation of Omaha towards "new territory." As 2002 Women's Campaign Co-chairs, Jacobson and Nogg have planned a number of events, big and small, focus on bringing the women of Jewish Omaha together.
"I believe Beth El, too, has grown, matured and learned much through these years as well. We have accomplished much together as we added new programs and activities and built a new home. For the Drazen family, Beth El and Omaha will always have a special place in our hearts." According to Howard Epstein, Beth Ei Synagogue President, "As the spiritual leader of our congregation, Rabbi Drazen has shown himself to a devoted, effective caretaker, committed to our synagogue and its families. His (Continued on page 11)
Bombing in Jerusalem Leaves Terror, Anger in its Wake
Joanie Jacobson and Patty Nogg "It's time to reconnect and enjoy each other's company," explained Jacobson. "Jewish women are spirited, insightful, diverse and dynamic. We've led our communities to higher ground for centuries. We can motivate each other, learn from each other, and apply it for the common good. It's exciting!" she concluded. The 2002 Women's Campaign will kick off Aug. 21, with a Cabinet party at the home of Patty Nogg. Then, on Sept. 12, A Jewish Book Swap, the first of seven "House Parties", will be held. Jaeobson and Nogg explained the inspiration behind the House Party concept. "Said Jacobson, "It's been years since we've gathered in small groups and enjoyed sharing who we are and what we think. So we're introducing The 90-Minute House Party!, an interactive celebration designed to bring out the best in everyone!" she added. "No solicitations will be made at any house party." (Continued on page 15)
In the aftermath of last Thursday's bombing at the pizzeria in Jerusalem, Israelis lined up to say prayers and light yarzheit candles. Among those killed: Giora Balash, 60, Brazil; Zvika Golombek, 26, Carmiel; Shosfaana Yehudith Greenbaum, 31, Brooklyn, NY; Tehlla Maoz, 20; Frida Mendelsohn, 62; Michal Raziel, 15; Malka Roth, 15; all of Jerusalem; Mordechai
Schijvesehuurder, 43, and Ms wife Tzira, 41, of Talnaon, and three of tiaeir children: Ra'aya, 14, Avraham Yitzhak, 4, and Hemda, 2; Liii Shamilashvili, 30;* Tamara Sfaamilasnvili, 8; and Yoeheved Shoshan, 10, all of Jerusalem; about-130 'were injured. Hamas and the Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility. Mare on Israel on pages 5 and16. Photo by ISRANET.
Coming Soon to a Classroom Near You: the yelton Adult Mini-School Opens Here by SUSAN PALEY, Omaha Meiton Director
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Florence Melton, communal activist and longtime advocate for adult Jewish learning, had a vision. In 1980, she proposed a unique concept for an adult mini-school providing for a comprehensive foundation of core Jewish knowledge which "leaves the student confident, competent and wanting to learn more." The Florence Melton Adult Mini-School inaugurated its pilot site in Northbrook, IL, in 1986. Fifteen years later, the response by the thousands of students in 63 communities worldwide proves, according to Melton, "If you give Jewish adults a serious opportunity to learn, they thrive on it." "In 1995, I started hearing about this incredible, high-quality, international program developed at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem," said Susie Drazen, former Executive Director of the Bureau of Jewish Education (now part of JELS, Jewish Educational and Library Services). "It's serious study of the basics of Judaism, but with a sophisticated look for educated people. I always thought that the Melton School is the kind of education this community deserves."
forefront of its priorities. Federation President Forrest Knitter is a sponsor and supporter of Jewish education, along with Steve Riekes and Justin Cooper who chair the College of Jewish Learning. The Melton School is pluralistic, non-judgmental, stimulating and interactive. The text-based, sequential course of study covers Jewish theology, practice, history and ethics. Classes will be taught by local Jewish professors, professionals and educators and will meet on Mondays at the Jewish Community Center for 30 weeks. (Continued on page 2)
Henry and Dorothy Hiekes "How many times have people said Td love to take a class, but I feel inadequate,'" stated Carolyn Novicoff, JELS Director. "So often we stopped our formal Jewish education after our Bar/Bat Mitzvah and didn't pursue text-based learning like we did with our college classes. This is our chance to rectify that." The Federation has placed Jewish education at the
Girls Basketball Team Wins Gold at 2001 Maccabi Games, and paoreL. ...pages 8-9 Sen. Chuck Breadbreakers-
Ha gel
Speaks to „ page 14
Jewish Arts Festival Opens in KC....page 18