#1JEWISH PRESS Vot.LXXXl
No. 11
Omaha, NE
8Kislev,5762
November 23T 2SQ1
SfflVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 80 YEARS
Walking the Bible Author Lands in Omaha by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director
Pitlors Turn Own Traumatic Event into Fund to Help with Transplant Costs
himself: to ground the Bible in by CLAUDIA SHEFftfiAiN, Foundation Public Relations Coordinator. real soil and in real history Mama Htior, who recently donat- Endowment Fund with the Jewish and, in so doing, demonstrate ed a kidney to her brother, Jerry Federation Foundation "to share our its amazing vitality." Chairpersons for the lecture Gerelick, whs has type one diabetes, success in a way to help other peois "a lot of cost that ple," Marda said. are Susan Rothholtz and found oat there 3 is not medical in nature involved in With the assistance of Marty Ricks, Suzanne Singer. A book signorgan donation. *Tnsurance only pays Director of the Foundatloa, who ing and reception will follow for the medical cost," she explained. explained to the Pitlors how the the lecture. Although there is Lost wages and travel expenses are endowment fund would be adminisno charge to attend, reservaonly the beginning of whaifs notcovBruce Feiler tered, they set up the fund to help pay tions would be appreciated by newest book, Walking the Bible. ered. for transportation to and from home calling the Walking the Bible Hotline Pitior reported that both she and to the location where the transplant Feiler's visit is sponsored hy the at 334-6402, or by e-mailing Sharon Jewish Federation of Omaha and the Kirshenbaum at her brother are doing "great. We're surgery is performed, temporary living cost for both the patient and famijust fine," she said. Kripke Jewish Federation Library as Thankful that everything went well ly while awaiting the delivery of the part of Jewish Book Month. Before Feiler, a native of Savannah, GA, is in her family's case, Marcia, who is co- organ, and other ancillary cost related writing the book, Feiler spent a year a graduate of Yale University. He has chairman of the Jewish Community to the operation. Determination of retracing the Five Books of Moses studied at universities in Osaka and Center (JCC)' Maecabi Games nest financial need will be made by Jewish through the desert. The book became Oslo and earned a master's degree in August in Omaha, said, "Obviously, Family Service. an instant New York Times bestseller. international relations from Cam- the transplant surgery impacted ail of According to the agreement, priority Walking the Bible: A Journey By bridge University. He now lives in us, not just me and my brother. We shall be given to Jewish residents of Land Through the Five Books of are just so thankful that everything the Omaha area and then to Jews HvMoses, was hailed as an "instant clas- New York City. During the last 10 years, he has came out great," she added. ing outside the area who travel to sic" by the Washington Post. "It is proMarda and her husband, Steve, a Omaha for transplant surgery. found without being oppressive, traveled to more than 60 countries, on humorous without being trite, and a five continents, immersing himself in past president of the JCC, wanted to Consideration will also be given to nondifferent cultures and experiences. do something to celebrate their fami- Jewish individuals and their families pure joy to read." "Thoughtful, informed, and percep- The result is four acclaimed books ly's good fortune. "Out of a sense of who are employed by the Federation or tive," wrote <"lie New York Times. that take the reader along on his fasci- doing something that we felt so good any of the Omaha synagogues. "Most of all, Mr. J*eiler achieves for his nating adventures and bring other about," the Pitlors established the We knew that at some point we'd Pitior Family Transplant Support readers what he set out to achieve for worlds vividly to life. (Continued on page 9) Bruce Peiler, the New
York Times best-selling author of five books, an award-winning journalist and a sought-after speaker, will appear in Omaha on Thursday, Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., in the Theater at the Jewish Community Center for a free community lecture about his
An Israeli Woman Walts...and Hopes by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor
Since August, a 62-year-old Israeli grandmother has been waiting for a liver transplant. Mimi Atias, a retired administrator from Bat Yam on the Mediterranean Coast of Israel, has fought Hepatitis C and liver cancer, but the cancer hasn't spread. Doetors at the University of Nebraska Medical Center say she's "in a good position on the transplant list," so Atias and her family remain hopeful. If she was just waiting for a match, it wouldn't be that difficult, according to a friend—and Hebrew translator—Elinor Matalon. But it's not just blood type and the other factors which matter. In liver transplants, size matters, too. So a perfect match from an infant—or a 300-pound football player— wouldn't be so perfect. Matalon is one of several volunteers who has been at Atias' bedside for months. Her husband, Guy, also helps out, as do volunteers Edythe Wolf and Hannah Schwalb. Rabbi Mendel and Shani Katzman have invited Atias, and visiting family members, for Shabbat and holiday meals. Atias has had a steady stream of visitors, including two of her daughters and two sisters. Each relative has left behind children (or grandchildren) and jobs. And none of them are fluent English speakers. "At the beginning, when Mimi was feeling better, she and her family were able to go out for walks, spend Shabbat at Beth Israel or Chabad, and visit sites around Omaha," Matalon explained. "But since her bout of chemo, she's become weaker and can't walk without assistance." Atias thinks she contracted the hepatitis from a blood transfusion more than 30 years ago, when she was hospiHlized following an earthquake in her native Morocco. But she had no symptoms until last year, when doctors in Israel finally diagnosed the problem. In addition, Atias consulted with a doctor who is also a rabbi in B'nai Brak, Rabbi Ferer, known for making shidduchim (matches) between patients and doctors. He advised her to seek a liver transplant at
Atias through Jewish Family Service, according to Steve Stiel, JFS Director. "Not only does Mimi need financial help," added Matalon, "but we could use additional volunteers to help with translation, running errands, and just visiting her at UNMC.7* To volunteer, call Edy Wolf at 333-7448. "I'm so grateful to the many people who have already helped our family," said a tearful Atias, "especially the Elinor and Guy (Matalon), who have been especially kind and thoughtful." While Atias does have insurance through the State of Israel, she and her family know her- bill will be more than they can handle. Atias and her husband, David, (who plans on coming here in December) have already mortgaged their home in Bat Yam. David doesn't speak English, but in addition to speaking Hebrew, he also speaks fluent French. Matalon is trying to line up French translators in preparation for his visit, in addition to securing more Hebrew translators to help communicate with Tali Mazxeb, right, is one of three daughters the medical staff at UNMC. who has come to wait until a liver becomes Stiel said he would like to give the Atias family available for transplant for her mother, Mimi more And he can, if members of the Omaha Atias. Mazreh left three children at home in Jewishhelp. community respond. To make a donation to Israel, the youngest of which is only a year Jewish families in need, call Stiel at JFS, 330-2024, old. While she hopes the transplant will he or send your tax-deductible donations to him, soon, Atias will still have to stay at UNMC's marked "liver transplant", at: JFS, 333 So. 132nd Lied Transplant Center for another three St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. months after the surgery. In the meantime, Atias waits. ..and hopes a comUNMC, known worldwide for its transplant program. patible liver becomes available soon. Her family So Atias arrived in Omaha with her daughter, waits, too...and prays for a refuah shlaymah, the Orli, and son-in-law, who left behind 10 children, health of Chaya Mimi bat Esther. the youngest of whom was not even three-years-old at the time. Each time 6ne of Atias' relatives visit INSIDE: here, however, it costs the family more than $3000 Monthly Calendar. .pages 6-7 for airfare, daily lodging at the Lied Transplant Center, meals and incidentals. Interview with Creighton's President, Money from an emergency medical fund, the Jake Fr. John SchlegeL~~.......~...~..~...........page 1G and Mary Wine Fund at the Federation Foundation (to which Rabbi Howard Kutner of Beth Israel Raising Soul&.«.,.., -page 12 Synagogue has input), has already been given to
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 23, 2001
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Parashat VaYetze When Abraham was told to leave Mesopotamia and go to another place, which at that time he didn't know, it was assumed that that would be a permanent residence for him and his family. The assumption was false. For his grandson, Jacob, was obliged to leave the land and return to Mesopotamia. Thus begins a long series of wanderings, which saw Jews in many different countries, from the land of the Two Rivers to the Nile, and then everywhere, including the great rivers of Europe to the Rio Grande and the Mississippi. As Omahans, we add, of course, the Missouri. Many years ago, among students a t the Seminary, we always smiled at a final exam in history, which may have begun with: "Shift ze Centers." By that, our professor meant to ask us to comment briefly on the centers of Jewish life in Palestine, Babylonia (Iraq), North Africa, Europe, and almost everywhere else on the globe. It was said of us that we were "the wandering Jew." In Sweden, which I visited recently, they like to think of themselves as "guests of nature." Jews, quite differently, may think of themselves as guests of history, with history unfriendly and hostile. The wonderful thing about Jewish history is that Jews, buffeted by unfriendly peoples generation after generation and century after century, managed to retain their resolution and their optimism. They got along without land and were satisfied to live an intellectual and spiritual life. Their land was their books and their literature. When our professor said "Shift ze Centers," he meant "give the history of Jewish religious literature in one place and another. And American Jews? American Jews have begun to assert their right to a place in this literary history, with scholarly work, novels, poetry, essays and a whole range of creative productions. Included here is the interpretation of Jewish religion and cultural literature for children.
DAVE BERNSTEIN Graveside services for Dave Bernstein were held Nov. 20 at Golden Hill Cemetery. He died at the age of 101. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bess. Survivors include sons and daughters-in-laws, Terrance and Joanie of Omaha and Marshall and Marilyn of Grand Junction, CO; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sister, Lillian Sager, and brother, Sam Bernstein, both of California. Memorials to the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. FLORENCE EISENBERG Graveside services for Florence Eisenberg were held Nov. 18 at Temple Israel Cemetery. She died Nov. 15 at the age of 74. Survivors include her husband, George; daughter, Cece Belrose of Windsor, CA; two sons, Joseph of Lincoln and Steven of Omaha; sister, Cheryl Lernor of Omaha; brother, William Nerenberg of Baltimore; and three grandchildren, Rachel Belrose, Samuel Eisenberg and Ben Eisenberg. Memorials to the Temple Israel Music Fund.
Ramadan in Jerusalem
The Israel government made many concessions in honor of the start: of Ramadan, including making access to parts of the West Bank easier and allowing more workers to come into Israel. In Jerusalem, some 100,000 Arabs came to the Old City, but there were few incidents reported. Photo by ISRANE1\
Winners Announced in Hanukkah Coloring Contest by JEWISH PRESS News Service
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Caroline Juster, daughter of Sara and Sorin Juster, will have her original drawing reproduced in four-color on the cover of next week's Hanukkah Gift Guide in the Jewish Press, announced Editor Carol Katzman. "We're delighted by the increase in number of entries this year," Katzman said, "and by the creativity and originality of the artwork!"
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Honorable mention and gift certificates to the Bookworm in Countryside Plaza were awarded to Grant Glazer, son of Jennifer and John Glazer; Lee Lohrnan, son of Helene and Michael Lohman; and Mallory Rogers, daughter of Charles and Marcelyn Rogers. The contest was open to children under the age of 12 in the Jewish community. This is the second year in which the Press has run the contest.
Muslim-Jewish Coexistence: Topic of Rabbi Brooks Lecture by CLAUDIA SHERMAN, Temple Israel Communications Coordinator.
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Moshe Gershovich, a native of Israel who is curIn the spring of 2002, Dr. Gershovich is schedrently an Assistant Professor of History at the uled to teach an upper-division and graduate University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), will course on the Holocaust at UNO, deliver the Rabbi Sidney Brooks Memorial Lecture "I feel very honored to have been selected" to deliver T h u r s d a y , Nov. 29, 7 p.m., at the W.H. the Brooks Memorial Lecture, said Dr. Gershovich, Thompson Alumni Center on the UNO campus. He is looking forward to this "great opportunitytoget Prof. Gershovich's topic will be "Muslim-Jewish to know more people in the community." Coexistence Through Modern Times." The lecture Each year, a lecture is given in memory of Rabbi is free of charge and open to the public. Sidney Brooks, who was senior Rabbi of Temple Specializing and teaching in the fields of modern Israel from 1955 until he retired in 1985, when he European history as well as modern Middle was named Rabbi Emeritus. Eastern and North African studies, Dr. Gershovich "The relationship between UNO as an academic is the author of the book, French Military Rule institution and Temple Israel, started in the days Over Morocco: Colonialism and Its Consequences. of Rabbi Brooks, has been an impetus for closer Earning his B.A. in Middle Eastern and Jewish relationships especially in the areas of adult learnHistory at Tel Aviv University in 1982, Prof. ing," pointed out Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. Gershovich received his PhD. from Harvard Rabbi Brooks taught "comparative religion off University in 1995. He taught at MIT for three years and on at the University for about 10 years," said. before moving to Morocco, where he spent nearly his wife, Jane. Citing close ties between the rabbi three years as a Fulbright scholar conducting field and UNO, she mentioned that UNO awarded her research on veterans of the French Army. He also husband an honorary doctorate in .1985. She feete served on the faculty of Al-Akhawayn University the lecture is "a perfectly wonderful tribute" to her there, before relocating to UNO last December. husband.
November 28,2001
SYNAGOGUES e Unioii of AiiH'iifiin lloln-ew <V>iigi;<>j(ations
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B'NAMSRAEL SYNAGOGUE 61.8 Mynster St., Council Bluffs, lA 51503-07(56 Phone: 322-4705 or 306-1 244 e-mail: jebde»<;2@aol.com FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. Oneg and kiddush will follow,
OFFUTT AIR FORCE pASE 25th and Capehart, Omaha, ME'.08113.-5000
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CANDLELIGHTING Friday, Nov. 23
BETH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Member of Union of Orthodox • ;V: Jewish^ongrpgations^of America,':' .'.-'• • 1502;;No.: 5|: SpOmahau:: Np<\68104:-5013'
FRIDAY: Special College and Family HomecomOffice hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 ing Service, 8 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. Rabbi Azriel will a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.~2 p.m. Services encourage attendees to participate in a dialogue conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. about the Sept. 11 attacks. Oneg Shabbat sponsored FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:45 p.m.; The by Susie and Marvin Cohn and Roz Friedman. West Minyan will be at the home of Howard SATURDAY: Babels and Sacred Books, 9:30- Gendelman and Bonnie Bloch, 4:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Shabhon services, 8:45 a.m.; 10:15 a.m. Please join us as we continue our study o f Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries: Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood; Mineha, The S'hma and It's Blessings;" Services, 10:30 a.m. 12:35 p,m.; Havdalah, 5:44 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a,m., and 4:40 p.m. Olg"a Patkovsky, daughter of Ella Patkovsky, will WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m., and 6s30 p.m. celebrate her Bat Mitzvah. The office will be closed through Sunday, Nov. SITTER SERVICE Available for Shabbat evening, 7:15 p.m. or 25. There will be no Hebrew School or Sunday 8 p.m. service, Saturday mornings when there is a School over Thanksgiving weekend. Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Also, Sunday mornings when there is Religious School. Make a reservation with the Temple office. No facilities for infants. Coat is An Anil into ol'tlu" Worldwide (ii;il>a(l-l,ul);ivi(tll Movement $2 per family, 180«So. 120111 St., Omaha, NE 081 M-l(>4«: "'' ADULT EDUCATION Photic: 830-1800 V 'E-MAlL--t-hMbad@aol.com WEDNESDAY, Nov. 28; Conversations with WISBSITE: wvvw.C'haliadcenters.ooin/oiitahii Judaism I, 6:45-8:15 p.m. Beginning with the Biblical period, Professor Guy Matalon will' take Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzmtm. discussion texts and place them in their historical M O N D A Y - F R I D A Y J Services, 7 a.m. context. The clans will meet thin date, at Beth SATURDAY* Services, 0J3O a.m, El Synagogue, SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 turn. : THURSDAY, Nov. 29s Beyond Basic Hebrew, MONDAY: Prophets Lunch Series, 11:45 turn.9sl5«19 sum. This course is for those who already 1. p,m.j Storytime for children with Morah Golda know how to read Hebrew, Elyce Azriel is the Levy, 11:45 a.m.-l p.m. (lunch is served at both instructor; Adult Study with Rabbi Azriel will focus programs). on'ther writings of the Seholars-in-Residonce who TUESDAY: The Womanly Art of Prayer, 9:30will join us this year, 10-11:30 a.m.; The Whole new 1.1 a.m.; Torah Tots, 1-2:30 p.m. of a Broken Heart, 4-5:30 p.m., congregant Tumra WEDNESDAY: Mommy and Me, 9:30-11 a,m.; Willott-Johnsoti will lead this book group; Battle JU, 7-8:110 p.m. at the JCC. Judaism, 7-9 p.m.; Walking tha Path of Grief, 78:30 p.m. This six-wook Jewish Journey Group is designed to facilitate a sense of a caring community in the midst of the mourning process, Sally Kaplan, L.C.S.W., will lead the group. ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME Saturday Morning Services, 9 a.m., led by Phyllis Hoffman, followed by Kiddush.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NB
FRIDAY: Shabbat in the home. SATURDAYS Shabbat in the home. SUNDAY: No Hebrew School TUESDAY: Religious School at the JCC, 4 p.m. FKIDAY, Nov. 80s Kabbalat Shabbat services, 7:80 p.imu» at the 2nd Unitarian Church. Oneg will be provided. PERSONAL To my family and friends: Many thanks for the donations, cards and good wishes that made my 90th birthday such a wonderful celebration. Jeanne Ovorkin
FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
'Will the Heal Islam Please Stand-Up'
Subject of Matalon Speeches at Beth Israel
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BETH EL SYNAGOGUE Member of United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism
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 Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY; Service*, 6 p.m. SATURDAY:-Services, 9:30 a.m., Martin Kaplan, son of Julie Prank and Howard Kaplan, will become a Bar Mitzvah; Kiddush sponsored by Elaine and Sam Potts in honor of the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson, Martin Kaplan,; TBS, 10 a.m.; K'Tantan, 10s45 a.m.; Shabbat Story Time, 11 a»m.; Humash Class with Rabbi Drazen, 4:20 p.m.; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services, 4:45 p.m. in the Chapel, SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Perek Yomi, 10:15 a,m., the. group continues its study of the Book of Genesis in the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism's Perek Yomi journey through the Tanach. FIUSK SITTER SERVICE Available every Shabbat morning from 10 a.m. to the conclusion of services. This program is funded by the Early Childhood Development Committee and welcomes children ages 18 months-kindergarton. WEEKDAYS: Services, 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p,m. Join us every day for breakfast after minyan. ADULT B'NAT MITZVAH CLASSES The class continues on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 7:30 p.m. CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURAN :-••'• • ••• ••••• - S O U T H S T R E E T T K M P l v E - ' . • - '" •
,2061 S. 20t1i St., -'Lincoln, NE 685(12-2797 Rorvices officiated by Rabbi Michael Weissor. FRIDAY: Shabbat services, 7i45 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 a.m.; Conversion Class, 11 sum. MONDAY: Adult Hebrew Study, 7 p.m, TUESDAYS: Read Hebrew America, 7 p.m.; Hebrew Class: Level II-thru Dec. iZ--8:159:15 p.m. WEDNESDAYS: AA Meeting, 7:30 p.m., in the Library* riFERETH ISRAEL M«'HHH;T of l:h«r U n i t e d Syn;iy(ij<iH' til" {!oiisi;i'v.uiv<" •Hidiiism
3219 Sheridan Blvd., Lincoln,'NE 08502-5286 • : - . ' . . - • '
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Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Kosenhaum. Minyan, Monday and Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY; Services, 8 p.mSATURDAY: Service's, ifcUO a.m.
by BETH COHEN, Executive Director « - « « « - » - - - - - .
Both Israel KynutfojTuo will ho.st a Scholar in•• KttHidoneo Shabbat, Dec. 7-8, featuring Dr. (Juy Matalon, a Prof«ssor of Judaic and Islamic Studios at the Univeraity of Nebrasku at Omaha (UNO). "To Tell the Truth: Will the Real Islam Please Stand Up?" is the theme for the program- On Friday evening, Dec, 7, 8 p.m., Dr. Matalon will speak on "Fundamentalism in Islam and Judaism." Following a question and answer session, everyone is invited to attend an Oneg Shabbat, On Shabbat morning, Dec. 8, Dr. Matalon will deliver the sermon during services,'and will speak following lunch on "The Contested Scriptures: the Torah and the Koran." Morning services begin at 8s45 a.m., with the sermon scheduled for approximately .1,0:30 a,m.» and lunch at noon. "The unfortunate events of Sept. 11 have sparked an' unprecedented interest in the Islamic faith," said Eabbi Howard Kutner of Beth Israel. "Conflicting views as to what is true Islam are
daily on television and radio talk shows. Judaism and Islam have ccriain conimcmalilit's and, obviouiily, many difference:;;," he explained. "Prof. Matalon, an expert, on Uic theology of both religions, will compare and wmtrnsl Llu> ideology and philosophy of those two world religions. "It promises* to be a program of groat in tores t and excitement," Rabbi Kutner added. Harry Berman, Melton student and Beth Israel member, commented, "I)r, Matalon opened one of our Melton classes noting what, an interesting time it is to be an Israeli Jew teaching Arab students about Islam (at UNO)! "I look forward to hearing him speak on mich a timely topic." All events at Both Israel are free and open to the community, A lunch reservation is approeiated HO the meal can he prepared accordingly. Call the synagogue office, 556-6288, to mako your reservations, or e-mail: Befchlisr&eJOnovia.nel.
Krin Alnanihon, dnujfhlo.r ol1 Shuri and Mike Abramnon, will become a Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, Doc. 1, at Helh 101 Synagogue. A sevonth grade honor student at Kiewit Middle School, she enjoys dance team, soccer, basketball and track. Erin has a sister, Jaime, 9, and a brother, Bradley, 15. Grandparents are Roberta and Sidney Weissman of St. Louis and Doris and Alvin Abramson of Omaha.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 23, 2001
What Are. We Doing for College Students? With the exception of the many scholarship funds managed by the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Omaha, we do very little for; our I Jewish college students.: Since many of them are home this weekend to; celebrate Thanksgiving with their families and friends, this seems to be an appropriate time to highlight this important issue. Yes, we do make college students aware of Birthright Israel and some have taken advantage of this free trip for young people who have never been on an organized visit to the State of Israel. Yes, college students receive the Jewish Press for free while they're away at school. And yes, Beth El, Beth Israel and Temple Israel send baskets to college kids for some of the holidays.. But, kudos to Temple Israel for inviting college students to services tonight for an opportunity to see their friends (and participate in something Jewish-as a bonus!). In fact, Temple seems to be the only . jne reaching out to college students. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel has, for years, visited campuses during the school year. In just the past few years, he's been to the University of Wisconsin, University of Illinois and Indiana University, The visits are welcomed by students who see Rabbi Azriel as a
link to home (and their parents, who appreciate the Jewish link Rabbi Azriel makes when he spends time talking to their children). So, what are the rest of us doing? If we expect our children to make Omaha their home sometime in their future, shouldn't we be maintaining those connections now? Are we communicating with our graduating high school seniors that we're interested in them, what they have to say and how they're living their lives? Do we let them know we hope they'll move back to Omaha? Are there programs we can put in place now to convince our young people that Omaha is a great place to work and live? We've been very fortunate in Omaha to have built a Jewish kehila, a real community, offering (most) all of the amenities needed to maintain a full Jewish life. Omaha is safe and affordable and the jobs, even in this economy, are still available. But if we don't do something now to encourage our young people to move back to Omaha, who will maintain this gorgeous campus 20 years from now? Who will support the elderly in the Blumkin Home, and make a minyan in our synagogues, and raise funds for Jewish families in need? We have a responsibility to our young people and it's time we started
BEHIND THE HEADLINES by DANIEL PIPES
Nebraska Press Association
National Newspaper Association
SHOUL&
"We Are Going to Conquer America"
•
"Muslims make an incredibly valuable contribution to our country," said President Bush shortly after Sept. 11, noting that they are "doctors, lawyers, law professors, members of the military, entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, moms and dads." He later added that "there are millions of good Americans who practice the Muslim. faith who love their country as much as I love the country, who salute the flag as strongly as I salute the flag." These soothing words were clearly appropriate for a moment of tension and mounting bias against Muslims living in the United States. And it is absolutely true that the number of militant Islamic operatives with plans to carry out terrorist attacks on the United States is a statistically tiny proportion of the Muslim population as a whole. But the situation is more complex than the president would have it. The Muslim population is not like any other, for it harbors a Substantial body — one many times larger than the agents of Osama bin Laden - that has worrisome aspirations for the United States. Although not responsible for the atrocities in September, this militant Islamic element shares important goals with the suicide hijackers: both despise the United States and ultimately wish to transform it into a Muslim country. However bizarre this goal, the killing of 5000 Americans requires that it be noted and seriously considered. Ambitions to take over the United States are hardly new. In fact, the first Islamic missionary from abroad unblushingly declared in the 1920s, "Our plan is, we are going to conquer America." Such hopes have become more commonplace in
The
Dry
recent years. Some examples, as articulated by leading figures: • Omar Abdel Rahman, the blind sheikh convicted of planning a "day of rage" by blowing up New York buildings and infrastructure, in 1991 called on Muslims to "conquer the land of the infidels." • A native-born American who converted to Islam and helped fight the Soviets in Afghanistan, proclaimed that "it is the duty of all Muslims to complete the march of jihad [holy war] until we reach America and liberate her." • Siraj Wahaj, the first imam to deliver a Muslim prayer for the U.S, House of Representatives, holds that if Muslims unite, they could elect their own leader as president; "take my word, if six-to-eight million Muslims unite in America, the country will come to us." • Isma'il Al-Faruqi, the first academic theorist of a United States-made-fundamentalist-Muslim, argued in 1983, "Nothing could be greater than this youthful, vigorous, and rich continent [of North America] turning away from its past evil and marching forward under the banner of Allahu Akbar [God is great]" • Zaid Shakir, formerly the Muslim chaplain at Yale University, believes the Koran "pushes us in the exact opposite direction as the forces ... at work in the American political spectrum" and from this argues that Muslims cannot accept the legitimacy of the existing order. « Masudul Alam Choudhury, a Canadian professor of business, matter-of-factly advocates the "Islamization agenda in North America." • Ahmad Nawfal, Jordanian who spoke often at (Founded in 1920)
The role of the'Jewish Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish communal needs locally, nationally and in Israel. Centers.of Excellence of the Federation are: Community Relations, Jewish Community Center^ Jewish Educational and Library Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. ' The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Deadline for copy, ads ahd photos is: Thursday, noon, eight days prior to publication. •••"..•••,.. The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $28 per calendar year U.S.; $32 foreign, by the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Phone: 402-334-6448; FAX: 402-334-5422; e-mail editorial material, photos and address changes to: ckatzman^jewishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or PDF. format) to: mlapour@yewishomaha.org. Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198.
American rallies a few years ago, says th&tif fundamentalist Muslims stand up, "itwill be very easy for us to preside over this world once, again." • Shamim A. Siddiqi wrote a book on establishing "Islamic rule" in the United States, with the goal of Muslims creating "a strong lobby in Washington for the promotion of Islam ... in this country as well as elsewhere in the world." Some organizations also express a hope that one day Muslims will take over in the United States. The International Institute of Islamic Thought in Herndon, VA, aims for nothing less than "the Islamization of the humanities and the social sciences." Just one month after the Sept. 11 atrocities, a delegate at the San Jose convention of the American Muslim Alliance, a militant Islamic group, announced: "By the year 2020, we should have an American Muslim president of the United States." While there is no reason to suppose that the aspiration to replace the Constitution with Islamic law will succeed, that this goal can be found among fundamentalist Muslims does have a major implication. It means that the existing order-religious freedom, secularism, women's rights-can no longer be taken for granted. It now needs to be fought for, Daniel Pipes, Director of the Philadelphiabased Middle East Forum, can he reached via www.DanielPipes.org, Thin article derives in part from a longer piece in the November inxue. of Commentary.
Free! Tichauer Chairman Carol ^Catzman Editor-in-Chief Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Allan Hanclleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant George Schapiro Volunteer
JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penny Enddinan, Secretary; Steve Simon, Troaaurer; Lloyd Koitstein, Immediate Past-chairman; Elyce Azriel; Jill Helmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordimm; Gary Kudym; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K. Marcus; Linda Salt/man; Howard Silber; Amee•Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member). 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 fcho Kastoruth of any product or establishment.
November 16,2001
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 5
On Campus, A Search for Answers (and Questions)
ISSUES by RICHARD M JOEL
College students experienced the than an ID-number, e-mail address or same bewilderment, shock, fear and a screen name. The impulse to come anger at the attack on America as the together as a community and to take rest of us, but more intensely. One action in the wake of the tragedy student turned to a Hillel profession- filled a deep hunger. al at Indiana University and said, The moral complex"You're the closest thing to a mother I have here. Would you give me a hug?" ities that have arisen We all needed hugs. in recent weeks are As the largest organization in the baffling to many stuworld devoted to working with Jewish college students, Hillel professionals dents and have awakprovided comfort and support to thouened long-dormant sands of Jewish students when they first learned of the attacks. The ter- issues. These young rorism hit just as students were in people have been that vulnerable transition period raised to be relamoving from home to campus, with all the concomitant apprehensions tivists, to see two and hopes. They were uprooted from sides to every ques~ the supports of friends and family. tionf to shun moral Those studying out of state were deprived of the lifeboat of a quick absolutes and avoid flight home. confrontation* The In those first few terrible days after Sept. 11, we contacted hundreds of sheer evil of killing campus professionals and advisors so many people upset across North America to offer assistheir world view. tance and to learn how students wore reacting. The young people sought comfort and community with fellow Students are equally baffled by the students in their dorms, student political reulitios of tho Middle East. unions and in organizations such as For them, the Middle East conflict is Hillel. Our buildings were filled with both coldly abstract and painfully students hanging out, watching tele- personal. On the one hand they lack vision, talking with staff members, the visceral understanding of history High Holy Day services, always full, and geography of tho region. Tho vast overflowed this year. majority can't toll the difference The students also took action. They between Oman and Amman, or gives distributed rod-white-and-bluer-rib- tho decade of the Six-Day War. bons, collected donations, gave blood, On the other hand, they share dorm and organized intorfaith prayer vig- rooms and classroom a with young ils. On many cumputsua, Jewish stu- puoplo who have atrong Middle dentfl stood with their Moslem and Eastern connections. College students Arab counterparts to reject ethnic live and study in a compact, multihatred. ethnic microcosm that compresses the The current crisis has heightened real world into an inescapable "insensitivities we have long seen in the your-face" community. Students have turned to our staff current generation of students. They have a longing for community, a need for answers—as if anyone has to fill their lives with meaning., a answers. The following points have desire to relate to the world as more helped to make some sense of a sense-
Rabbi Sidney H» Brooks Leettsre to Feature Moslte GershovMh Thursday, Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. W.H. Thompson Alumni Center
less situation and to provide some However, it is wrong, by any stancomfort amid the chaos: dard of ethics or law, to express that You are okay. You have a communi- political belief by taking the lives of ty that listens to you, cares about you some 5000 innocents—or even one. We and will help you through this. We cannot hand the killers a victory by are all in this together. debating their political motivations Have faith. Faith in God. Faith in and giving them legitimacy. They our country. Often the first answer is died as murderers not martyrs. It prayer and reflection. It grounds you. would be a desecration for any group Be proud of who you are. Fly your to extract political gain from this flag. Celebrate your holidays and tragedy. beliefs. Express your opinions. Seek understanding. Talk to your Sometimes maintaining a position mentors. Read* Draw strength from isn't being confrontational, it's being the basic documents of our country principled. and traditions, Listen to one another and be Hillel has created a one-page edirespectful. Tolerance is at the heart tion of the Preamble to the U.S. of the American dream. Honor your Constitution with explanations and neighbor's opinion, even his right to illustrations drawn from the Bible be wrong. and rabbinic literature. We hope that Help your neighbor. Someone needs students will use this tool to engage you—and you aeed to be needed. in conversations on the nature of democracy, patriotism and faith. There is strength in community. We must not see our military action Today, weeks after Sept. 11, the inias a conflict between Islam and the tial shock may have dissipated but West. It's about terrorism and its new insecurities continue to arise. purveyors. Any individual, group or Students are still turning to adults on country can have political beliefs that campus in search of guidance. (Some, differ from our own. I'm sure, are even swallowing their pride and calling home more often.) Some ideals are On dozens of campuses across the country, students and faculty have worth fighting for. gotten the tie-dyed tradition of the Life. Liberty. The pur- teach-in out of mothballs, This is as it suit of happiness. should be. Enlightenment is growing from the These "inalienable darkness of terrorism. Let us hope rights" were enthat healing may come from undershrined in our Decla- standing. M. Joel is President ration of Indepen- andRichard International Diraotor of dence and remain Hillel: Tht> foundation for Jewish fundamental to Camputt liife.
American life. As it says on the Korean War memorial, "Freedom is not free."
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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November 23, 2001
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 "Raising Souls," 4 p.m., at Beth El Federation Executive Committee, 6 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Jewish Teen Artists Reception, 7-8:30 p.m. Federation Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 "Raising Souls" Program, 4 p.m, at Beth El BESTT High School & Dinner Night, 6 p.m., at Beth El Chabad Jewish Learning Institute, 7 p.m. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Adult Education, 9 a.m., at Temple "Raising Souls" Program, 4 p.m., Beth El FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 80 Outreach. Dinner, 6 p.m., at Temple Israel Scholar-ih-Residence Weekend with Judith Abrams, Nov.30-Dec. 1, at Temple Israel SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 Havurah Big 12 Championship and Game Night, 6 p.m., at Beth El SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 JFS Project Droidel Gift Wrap, 10 a.m. MONDAY, DECEMBER 3 YES Program, .10 a.m. JFS Executive Committee Meeting, 11:30 a.m., at The.Market Basket Jewish Press Committee Meeting, 5 p.m. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4 Sisterhood Board Meeting, 10 a.m., at Beth Israel Hanukkah Theatre Rehearsals, 4 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Camp Ramah Night, 6 p.m., at Beth El Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m., at Beth Israel JCC Board Meeting,7:30 p.m. Library Poetry Reading, 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 JFS Project Dreidel Food Packing, 2 p.m. Friedel Brownie Troop, 4 p.m. Temple Israel Bible Quiz Rehearsal, 5 p.m. Chabad Jewish Learning Institute, 7 p.m.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6 JFS Project Dreidel Food Deliveries, 8 a NCJW Goverment Day, 10 a.m., at the; Mayor's Office j Religious School Directors Meeting, I 11:30 a.m. Yiddish Club, 1 p.m. ! CDC Hanukkah Fair, 5 p.m. I Synagogue 2000 Meeting, 7p.m., ; ! at Temple Israel "Walking the Bible" Jewish Book Monti Lecture, 7:30 p.m. ;' FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 | Board Training with Rabbi Moshe Edelman, noon, at Both HI Schoiar-in-Residence Ilnbbi Mosho Edelman, 6 p.m., at Both Kl Scholar-in-Residence with Dr. Guy Matalon, 8 p.m., at Both Israel SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 Scholar-in-Residence with Dr.Guy Matalon, 9 a.m., at Beth Israol Kutlor Scholar-in-Rcsidcnc« Weekend, 9:30 a.m., at Both Kl Lunch & Learn on Shabbat, 12:30 p.m., at Beth El BBYO Color Wara, 6 p.m. Melaveh Malkah with Rabbi Motshe Edelman, 7 p.m., at Beth El 'i SUNDAY, DECEMBERS I Kutler Scholar-in-Residence Weekend,; 10 a.m., at Beth El : WRJ Cradle Roll Event, 10:30 a.m., I at Temple Israel j. Club 56, noon, at Temple Israel i Camp Sabra Recruitment & Reunion, no Yachad Hanukkah Party, 12:30 p.m. \ Chabad House Hanukkah Party, 5 p.m; at Skateland (Irvington) MONDAY, DECEMBER 10 ! YES Program, 10 a.m, j
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER H MONDAY, DECEMBER 17 WRJ Executive Board, 11:30 a.m., at YES Program, 10 a.m. Temple Israel WRJ Board Meeting, noon, JFS Board Meeting, 11:30 a.m., at Temple Israel at the Market Basket Sisterhood Luncheon, 12:80 p.m., Poster Care Review Board, 6 p.m. at Beth Israel TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 ADL/GRC Board Meeting, noon Hanukkah Theatre Reheasala, 4 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Board of Trustees Meeting, 7:30 p.m., Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m., at Beth Israel at Temple Israel Talmud Torah Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m., WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12 at Beth El Mah Jong Club, 11:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 19 Edward Zorinsky B'nai B'rith Bible Quiz USY International Convention, 7 a.m., dinner, 5 p.m.; quiz, 7 p.m. Social Justice Club (7-12), 5 p.m., at Beth El ' at Temple Israel Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Kutaer, noon, at Noddle Development, 18710 Youth Group Dinner, 6 p.m., at Temple First National Bank Parkway Executive Committee Meeting, 7:30 p.m., "The Ninth Day of Hanukkah," 3:30 p.m. at Beth El Frtadel Brownie Troop, 4 p.m. THURSDAY. DECEMBER'18 NOJW Board Mooting, 7 p.m. Yiddish Club, 1 p.m. Board of TruHtoos Meeting, 7:.ri0 p.m., JFS Special Needs Oomniittaci Meeting, at Beth I'll 7 p.m. Board of CJommianionora Moating, 7:00 p.m., NCSY"Ullo wul Learning," 7:30 p.m. at BeUi I«raol at Caffeine1. Dreams THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 FJA llanukkah Program, 7:U0 p.m. USY International Convention, H a.m., FRIDAY, DECEMBER. 14 Temple Israel "Klmlibul Comos to You," at Beth Kl Yiddish Club, 1 p.m. .'J;.'JO p.m., at Keoiinj,'t,on lluightH Nebraska Jewish Historical Society Akko Youth Orchestra, 5 p.m., at. Tompln Ilanukkab Family Dinner, (i p.m., Meeting, 7 p.m. NCSY Winter Conclave, through Tuesday atTomplo Innw.l at (Jump C!ht, Wt SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 Akko Youth Orchestra, noon FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21 llanukkah Kiddush, noon, at Beth Israel OTYG Winter Conclave, 7 a.m., thru Sunday Shabboa House,,") p.m., call Beth Israel MONDAY, DECEMBER 24 YES Program, 10 a.m. for location THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 OTYG Event, 6 p.m., at Temple Israel BBYO Winter Regional Convention, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 through Dec. 30 in KanaasCity Outreach Committee Meeting, 9 a.m., Yiddish Club, 1 p.m. at Temple Israel LOVE Monthly Meeting, 7 p.m. B'nai B'rith llanukkah Torch Run, 9 a.m. MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 Kids Snack and Learn, 11:30 a.m., YES Program, 10 a.m. at Beth El Youth Dept. New Year's Eve Overnight, Dance and llanukkah Theatre, 2 p.m. 6 p.m. Hanukkah Fun Night, 5 p.m., at Beth El
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 28, 2001
Beth El HAZAK Celebrates First Anniversary by OZZIE N O G G - — — — - —
•
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Now boasting more than 100 members, HAZAK, Beth El Synagogue's group for "seasoned" citizens, will mark its first anniversary on Saturday, Dec. 8, with a celebratory Shabbat BELLS luncheon featuring Rabbi Moshe Edelman. Rabbi Edelman, the United Synagogue of | Conservative Judaism's Director of Leadership Development, Congregational Standards and Planning, comes to Beth El as the congregation's first* Dr. Benton and Harriet Kutler Scholar-in-Residence. He will speak on "The Quest for Spirituality." "Rabbi Edelman's ap- Rabbi Moshe Edelman pearance will kick off our second year in great style," said HAZAK President Wally Elkon. The group's first-year lineup of events and activities, "Why Should Kids Have All the Fun?" recently won a Solomon Schechter Award in Jewish Programming from USCJ in the Adult Programming category. BELLS-Beth El Lunch and Learn on Shabbatis sponsored by the synagogue's Adult Education Committee. The luncheon programs, which are scheduled throughout the year, begin immediately after Shabbat morning services and provide members and the entire community a chance to learn together in a relaxed, participatory atmosphere. Cost of the luncheon is $7.50 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Free baby-sitting from 12:451:45 p.m. is available by advance reservation. Luncheon reservations will be taken up until Wednesday, Dec, 5, through the office, 492-8550.
•' • . Y.E,S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10:15 a.m. with Eileen Remer, or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 ajn. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 ajn. Following lunch at noon, explore the world of magic with Jeff Quinn's Amazing Magic Show. Students from the Friedel Jewish Academy and the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center will join Y.E.S. for a magical experience. For transportation, call 330-4272.
B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Oliver Pollak will speak Wednesday, Nov. 28, noon, at Park Inn Regency, 107th and Pacific, according to chairman Justin Cooper. Pollak will discuss the conception, creation, production and publication of his new book, Jewish Life in Omaha and Lincoln: A Photographic History. Cost for lunch is $9; for beverage service only, $2. The program is open to the community.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN NCJW Omaha Section announced "NCJW WALK-IN, DROP-IN For those going on the day trip to the Bluffs Run Shopping Days" at the Bookworm in Countryside Casino on Thursday, please meet at the JCC by Plaza, and Zany Brainy, 78th and Dodge, and 8:45 a.m. Oakview Mall, Dec. 3-7. Tell the cashier at checkout and NCJW will receive a portion of the sale. Shopping Days benefit local programs and projects 39 FOREVER A pre-Hannukah party will be hosted at the such as R.A.F.T. (Resources Available for Teens Parkwood Terrace clubhouse on Saturday, Dec. 8, Guide) and Dictionary Day. Omaha Section is starting a new gift wrap tradi6:30 p.m. A dairy potluck dinner will be included. tion—all new hours and locations start this Questions, call Maxine Noodell at 393-7624. Thanksgiving weekend at Bookworm and Zany OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Brainy. To volunteer, call "Gift Wrap" Chairwoman Tuesday, Nov. 27, 7 p.m., Bais Midrash returns Susan Rothholz at 391-3043. at the Chabad House. Pam Friedlander, NCJW Vice-president for Thursday, Nov. 29, 7 p.m., the Gemorrah class Public Affairs, announced "City Government Day" meets at the home of Leon Shrago, 805 So. 120th will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. Meet in Mayor Fahey's office with Chief-of-Staff Paul Ave. Wednesday, Dec. 5, noon, OCTL resumes Landow for a tour and meeting with City Lunch 'n Learn at the Kripke Jewish Federation Councilman Frank Brown on issues confronting the City Council this year. For reservations or Library. Friday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m., join OCTL for Shabbat more information, call Pam at 334-8773. dinner at Allan and Rini Gonsher's, 5417 Franklin, followed by a lecture by Dr. Guy Matalon at Beth Chabad Presents Israel Synagogue at 8 p.m. Cost is $12.50 for adults, $5 for children. RSVP to Carol Katzman, Hanukkah on Wheels 397-9935, by Dec. 3. and Hanukkah Challenge For information about OCTL, call Allan Gonsher by JEWISH PRESS News Service - — — — at 558-2767. As part of Hanukkah festivities with, Chabad, a roller skating party at SkateLand (1-680 and Irvington Exit) will take place, on the first night of Hanukkah, Sunday, Doc. 9, 5-7:30 p.m. Skate to Hanukkah music, see the grand Menorah Lighting Amy and Ron Ref announce the Oct. 20 birth Meyer and Martha Anne Schwartz of and eat a delicious dinner. Cost is $7 per person, of their daughter, Emily Sara, named in memory of Augusta, GA, announce the Oct. 23 birth of their or $25 per family, and includes skate rental. Chabad is also sponsoring the local Hanukkah her great-grandmother, Sara Zalkin. daughter, Isabelle Tudor. Challenge. It includes a fun-filled activity book They also have another daughter, Eva Claire. They also have a son, Jacob Eli. Grandparents are Harold and Linda Mann of Grandparents are Dr. and Mrs. Maurice with cartoons, games, and chances to win prizes, Omaha and Joe and Batya Ref of Scottsdale, AZ. Schwartz of Omaha and Mrs. Arthur Allen Tudor including a trip to DisneyWorld. To get your Hanukkah Challenge book, or RSVP for the of Augusta. Great-grandmother is Bertha McGbwan of Hanukkah on Wheels Party, call Jennifer at the Chabad House, 330-1800. The Hanukkah Augusta. Challenge book is free,
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
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(Continued from page 1) ""• "•'» .»•«—.—•—— want to set up an endowment fund," said Marcia. Their own family's experience "gave them a reason." "We have strong feelings about our roots in the Jewish community," added Steve Pitlor who, along with his wife and Steve and Patty Nogg, were chairmen of the JCC campus capital improvement 'M-:'--I < , fundraising project that begaa in 1998,^ "Likewise, we have strong feelings about continuing to build -.'' : I,, 1 1 the Foundation for the continued strength of the future of the Jewish community of Oihaha. "We'd like to encourage people to'utilize the Foundation and not hesitate to endow good things in their lives," Steve added. "It's a good feeling to take a very traumatic event in our lives and turn it into something to benefit others in the community,"
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Le/if photo: Davida and Avishai Halev, and Amos and Talia Pomp and some of the children involved with Lincoln's Gan Simha Jewish educational program. The children collected school supplies for a tzedakah project for Ethiopian children now living i n Israel. According to a recent report, 45% of Ethiopian school children do not have t h e basic supplies for every day classroom needs. To donate to one of the NACOEJ, call (212)
233-5200 or e-mail them at: NACOEJ@aol.com. Right photo: In preparation for Sukkot last month, children in. Gan Simha went on a desert trek, then built and decorated a sukka. Eating snacks in their sukka were: Shoshanw and Benjamin S c h r e i b e r , left, London Wambeam, P a r k e r McDonald, M a r i n a Kushner, Sean Hollibaugh and Avishai Halev. For more information about Gan Simha, call Elyza Riehmon Halev, (402) 435-S230.
Jewish Federation of Lincoln to host annual meeting fay R O B E R T N E F S K Y - — —
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The Jewish Federation of Lincoln will hold its annual meeting on Dec. 2, 12:30 p.m., at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. The Federation will honor Jim and Elaine Wolf of Albion for their generosity and lifelong commitmenta to Jewish and secular causes in Nebraska, regionally and nationally. The regional UJC representative will be. on hand to present an award to
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them. Freda Keet, who has had a long and disUnguished career with Kol Israel, the Israeli IH»WH authority, will speak, In addition, we will begin our 2002 campaign at the meeting, •> Lunch will be served; coat is $5 per person. For more information, call ma at 402-475-5100.
Temple Youth Raise $537 for Victims ofSept. 11 Attack by CLAUDIA SHERMAN, Temple Israel Communications Coordinator
Sept. 12 waa the first day of relifjious school this year for middle and high school students at Temple Israel, As it was the day after tho lorrorist attackn on America, it wasn't a typicul first day of school. After a brief introduction from Rabbi Aryoh Azriol, a basket was passed around the sanctuary where approximately 220 students and their parents met. "Not one person hesitated," said Elyce Azriol, Director of Temple's middle and high school program. In 10 minutes, she reported, $537 was raised, "In all our classes at Temple Israel, we stress the giving—tzedakah and mitzvot. Although tzedakah doesn't always mean the giving of money—this is'
NOW Dictionary Day .. . *a Huge Success" • : by SALLY ZIPURSKY NCJW Fundraising Vice-president '•"•"•"'•••^•"—^
National Council of Jewish Women's Dictionary Day was created in 1997 by Joanie Lehr when it came to the attention of Omaha Section members that many fourth grade students had no knowledge of the use of the dictionary. In many cases, these students have never owned their own book of any kind. SptHtrhtuuled by project Chairperson Sanely Epstein, Dictionary Day haw grown each year to its current level. Tho Bookworm in Countryside Village donated the bookplates and shipping costs of tho dictionaries, Omaha Section volunteers participated in'the fifth Annual Dictionary Day lust week. More than 30 NCJW members and supporters delivered approximately 1400 dictionaries to fourth grade students in 22 OPS elementary schools. According to Epstein, "Dictionary Day is a wonderful way for NCJW to make a difference in the lives of children. The day leaves a warm feeling in the hearts of both the volunteers and students receiving the books. It is my hope Dictionary Day will continue for many more years." Dictionary Day 2001 was funded by grants from the Carl Prohm Memorial Foundation, the Rose Blumkin Foundation, the Herbert Goldsten Trust, the Ike and Roz Friedman Foundation and the generous donation of many NCJW members.
one time when our dollars could make a difference," Azriol noted. Later in tbe month, tho students received n thank you letter from Sam Tidwell, Executive Director of the Red Gross. In part, the letter stated that their contribution would bo used to "help families of victims with immediate financial needs such as mortgage or rent payments, utility bills, funeral and related expenses as well aa for transportation, food, clothing, and other time-sensitive and uncovered expenses." . ... Tidwell also wrote that'the students support helps make the Reel Cross work possible.
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Marissa"Epstein, daughter of Harriet and Ron Epstein, and Brittany Sukionnik, daughter of Hyman and Marlene Sukiennik, wore among 41 high school sophomores rorently nelected for Youth Leadership Omaha from among 343 candidates. A day-long session will be held each month from December through May, with activkioB designed to help the teens develop potential leadership, career awareness, communication and interpersonal ekills. T r a c y OJr.instead-Kverly has been named Director of the newly-created Court Watch Program of the D o m e s t i c Violence C o o r d m a t ~ i n £ Council, The Program monitors and researches the criminal justice system to make ii more responsive and accountable in liaudltitf! cusses of crimes against women. The program is modeled after the successful national ("our) Watch program and is designed for the Douglas County court syateru. Grinstead-Everly, a U*9f> graduate of (Ireighton University School of Law, most recently worked as an attorney with the Nebraska Legal services'1 Domestic Violence Projects in Lincoln and Omaha. Yuliy Piseteky was a member of tho North High School math team which took first place in the recent Probe 1 competition. He also won an individual award as "second place male" and a $4000 scholarship to the University of Nebraska at Lincoln,
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November 23,2001
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In his address to the B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers, Eough-ly, • Rev. John P. .Schlegel, S.J., joked that being this year, President of Creighton University is like being the Creighton's head of the cemetery, "Everybody is under you and s p e n d i n g "P and add-ons nobody is listening!" During his introduction of Fr. Schlegel, Marty will conRicks, program chairman, said this graduate of St. t r i b u t e Louis University was ordained a Catholic priest in about $500 1973. Fr. Schlegel received his BA in Philosophy million to £p *",\\';« * •* «»« ' i ; « l and Classics and his MA in Political Science. He the Omaha also has an honors degree in theology from the community." '*$i,*\»' / ' * " ' ** * University of London. Creighton '<«£'X'Z'" ' t- ' ' Prior to returning to Creighton, he was President contributes .^ * * , \ ( of the University of San Francisco from 1991 to t o w a r d t h e * R„ e v, J, o h n Pm S«c h li e_ ie l S, J o r * " £ > » 2000. From 1988-91, he was Vice-president of John "brain gain" rather than President of Creightoa Carroll University. From 1984-88, he was Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Marquette the "brain drain" of the state. Many students from University and taught at Creighton in the late '70s. other states and countries stay in Nebraska after Ricks noted, "Besides being very busy at they graduate. Creighton, Fr. Schlegel serves on many national "They've come to know that this is a wonderful and Local boards, especially in the academic.com- place to live and raise a family. And, these are munity. From the time it was announced that he young, well-educated professionals. They're out and was coming back to serve at Creighton, everyone about and they're doing all sorts of tilings." was excited because of his ideas and innovative The Creighton University Medical Center does its plans for the school." share in biomedical research with the University of Schlegel said Creighton University has a tremen- Nebraska Medical Center, and St. Joseph Hospital dous role in the Omaha community. Upon his is the single largest contributor to indigent care in return, he was surprised at some of the changes Omaha. Last year, over eight million dollars went to health care for poor people. since he lived here 18 years ago. Schlegel lauded Creighton for having the nation's "When. I came back, I was pleasantly surprised at the development I saw in Omaha to the West and only business-law degree, a newly initiated on-line South. However, even though this expansion offers doctorate in pharmacy, one of the nation's oldest opportunities, I was also distressed at some of the accelerated nursing programs and the Claire Booth Luce Science Program for Women, which is one of things that hadn't changed," He pointed to the lack of development in North 13 in the country. They also have internationallyOmaha and some of the race relations within our recognized research in hereditary cancer, osteoporosis, cardiology and neurology, and a newlycommunity. "I do believe there is a role for an institution like established center for Aging and Alzheimer's Creighton to play in that particular set of issues," Disease, he added. "The bottom line is that we continue to do what Schlegel went on to tell of his ongoing and close we've done for over a century and that's to provide relationship with the Jewish communities wherever excellent undergraduate and professional education.'' Schlegel says he keeps asking students for their he lias served. Whiie serving in San Francisco, Fr. Schlegel, a local rabbi and an Episcopal bishop put help in planning the future, together a book dealing with all of the points of com"There's no reason for Creighton to exist if it was mon ground of the different theological perspectives. not a faith based institution. What Omaha needs is Creighton was also the first Catholic University to a good, value-based Catholic university. So, we have a chair in Jewish civilization, when the won't change that! But having said that, we will Klutznick family established it 27 years ago. make some physical changes, and the second He was also guest of the Northern California change has to do with diversity and who we are. Jewish Federation for several visits to Israel, that The third has to do with what we're going to be doing in terms of engagement in the Greater he found informative. "Generally, the relationship has been extraordi- Omaha community. narily positive so I was delighted when I came back Upon his arrival, he was impressed with the to Omaha and found the Klutznick Chair for changes in downtown Omaha, with all of the conJewish Civilization and a very active scholar like struction and the new convention center. Dr. Greenspoon and the outreach "We sit cheek to that we have with the annual jaw with downsymposium. town Omaha and that's intentional "I have this big thing about peoand deliberate. ple getting along, and I think the We are urban way you do that is by admitting from the beginthere are differences, and some of ning and we'll be those differences can be made into urban at the end. commonalties," lOast is our winCreighton University has been a dow of opportunipart of the Omaha community ty. We're going to since 1878. It was founded by peocurve out 20 ple active in the local economy, hlooks between entrepreneurs and philanthropists B n a i of their day. Consequently, the ' B'rith President Gary Javllch present- 2 > l t h a n t j 1 7 t h f University and St. Joseph e d 50-year membership honors to IrvYaffe. Cass to Cuming Hospital were the benefactors of their generosity. Streets, roughly 20 acres, for the expansion of our According to Fr. Schlegel, the Creighton of today campus. It won't fall into our hands at one timereflects that same kind of generosity and spirit. nor will it come easily." "We remain deeply rooted in the community and In spite of having new space, he doesn't want a continue to give a nationally-recognized education growing enrollment; he's very comfortable with 6200 at the undergraduate level, our health professional and wants to keep the small student-faculty ratio, training and our health care delivery. We remain "We're not expanding to grow. We're expanding to very dedicated to community service." decompress," he explained. "We're adding green The Creighton of today is a very vibrant, healthy, space, recreation space, an intramural field and a creative community of just over 6200 students who new stadium for the soccer program, and housing come from 44 states and 60 foreign countries. The for upperclassmen." university employs just under 2600 in their job Other plans include trying to attract students force, which makes them the 15th largest private of color and diversity. "We're roughly at 21% for employer in Omaha. under-represented students," Fr. Schlegel added. "We're significant in terms of our economic contri- "Like our founders, I want Creighton to become bution to the community. We've had a stabilizing more visible in the community. We need to be influence on the economy of Omaha and Nebraska more engaged in decision-making issues—in pur with our spending and employment expansion. own quiet way."
November 28,2001
Two NewJewish Journey Groups Begin at Temple by CLAUDIA S H E R M A N , Temple Israel Communications Coordinator"""—
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"We all have losses and grief in our lives and resources to help comfort people who are grieving. Judaism has some unique ways of helping people Kaplan indicated that the group is "for anyone through those times, and that's what we'll explore," who has experienced a loss in their lives whether it explained Sally Kaplan, LCSW, who will lead was 40 years ago or last week. My hope is that peo"Walking the Path of Grief," a Jewish Journey ple who are finding ways of coping at any stage in Group that will start Thursday, Nov. 29, 7- the grieving process will share them with the 8:30 p.m., at Temple Israel. group. We're all here to help each other." A concept developed by Synagogue 2000, a Tamra Willett-Johnson, who has been a nationwide program in which Temple Israel has copy/associate editor with AAA Nebraska's Home & participated since 1997, Jewish Journey Groups Away magazine for four years, will lead another meet weekly for four to six weeks and seek to foster Jewish Journey group, which also starts on Nov. deep connections, an openness to growth, and an 29, 4-5:30 p,m, Willett-Johnson's group will be a awareness of the Divine Presence. Each session book discussion. Together, participants will follow begins and ends with a moment of prayer in word, Hannah in Katie Singer's novel, The Wholeness of a song, or silence. In addition to a Jewish theme that Broken Heart. is unique to each group, participants have an Following Hannah as she searches for her identiopportunity to share what is meaningful in their ty and for clues about her mother's confusing lives at each meeting. behavior, the book involves a mother-daughter Kaplan is the Clinical Services Director at Child relationship. Saving Institute. She has practiced in thefieldof In the novel, voices from four generations, beginsocial work for 22 years and has facilitated groups for ning in Poland and ending in Massa-chusetts, adult survivors of aexual abuse, children's groups, describe joys and sacrifices, "It's pretty intense parents of abused children, and led a Jewish Journey emotionally," said Willett-Johnson. She asked that Group last year dealing with chronic illness. The six- participants not read the book ahead of time so week group she will co-lead with Steve Stiel, MSW, they can travel through the text together. PLMHP, Executive Director of Jewish Family A former drug counselor, Willett-Johnson taught Service, is designed to facilitate a sense of a caring English composition at the University of Nebraska community in the midst of many feelings that are at Omaha, edited the University's newspaper, and part of the mourning process, has a master's degree in English with an cmptinsiH Stiel has also had experience facilitating support in literature. She also led n Jewish Journey book groups, including one with Shane Kotpk, Director discussion group last year. of Community Outreach at the Rose Blumkin All adults in the community ore welcome, to regisJewish Home, for people who have lost a loved one ter for either Jewish Journey group by culling in the past three years. He did graduate work In Temple at 666-6536. Participation Ls free. the areas of spirituality and in death and dying, These education opportunities are sponsored by and has counseled individuals suffering from grief, the EJermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish and loss. He and Kaplan will suggest Jewish Learning.
The Road to Morocco by SUZANNE RICHARDS SINGER
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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2001 DODGE INTREP1DS "The Road to Morocco: American Jews, Christians yahrzeit and the meaning of the Kaddish prayer. and Muslims in Dialogue," the documentary film As I said the Hebrew words with Oren, I silently that will bo presented at Temple Israel on wept. Soon I realized there wore women on either Saturday, Nov. 30, holds a special excitement for side who put their arms around me-one Christian FWHI mo. I was one of the very fortunate people invited to join Dr. Richard Freund and 68 others or* a twc-we©k triptothat ancient land. The film should be 'fascinating,'for the hardworking UNO crew was with us, dragging . crommrrwir their heavy cameras and sound booms, as we T H E R I G H T CMO1CK traipsed through the incredible sights of 54th & t St. Vi.800»73S-S402 * 734-5402 Morocco. There were the narrow streets of the www.jimstioclgecountfy.com medina in Fez where you had to step aside for the donkeys; a sumptuous feast and entertainment at a villager's home; the Casbah in Rabat; and the splendor of the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca. They were with us when we heard lectures and had discussions. They captured the beautiful faces of children in the villages and the spirit of the people on Suzanne Singer a n d Dr. Richard Freund a r e BOOKS • MUSIC • MOVIES »CAFE shown the Ark and Torah scrolls by an elderly the streets. As I reflect on this fabulous journey, and myman in Marrakesh. mind lingers on the sights, lectures and wonderful and one Muslim. As many came uptothank me for H o l i d a y 3-Day Sale! people I met, I realize that among my most endur- sharing the experience with them, I saw in their ing memories are two of the spiritual encounters I faces that they, too, were moved by that special N o v e m b e r 23 t o 25, 2001 had. moment. We arrived in the Atlas Mountains above In Fez, we went to a 500-year-old Jewish ceme40% OFF Select Bestsellers Marrakesh just as the first star tery. Many of the grave markers were appeared in the. sky on Friday evening. 25% OFF All Kid's Plush Toys a brilliant whites, aw Someone hud brought Sabbath candies, 20% OFF Select Box Sets if they had just but, of course, ihnro was no challah. 20% OFF Holiday Music been whitewashed. Suddenly, tho suggestion WHS made that 20% OFF All DVD and VHS Box Sets They looked like we could be the clmllah. Wo formed a cir- 20% OFF Holiday Boxed Cards & Wrap elongated beehives, cle to say the Sabbath prayers, and packed tightly toMuslims and Christians joined us as we gether. braided our arms together. The cool 50% OFF Select Calendars winds blow the candles out, rain drops It was my mothHuge Savings Throughout the Store er's yahrzeit, and started coming down, but we only relucmy father had died tantly made our way indoors, holding Dr. Seuss-Buy 2, get the 3rd FREE just five months hands and singing as we went. earlier. I thought of Traveling with people of the three asking the young Abrahaniic religions and sharing our 50% OFF Select Gifts and Stationery New York City faiths and cultures was such an incrediShop our Stocking Stuffers in Borders Espresso;: Cafe v:: rabbi, who was Two members light Shabbai candles ble experience*. While it will be very gathers with my group, to as the, group . , , , with the Atlas exciting for me personally to relive it all ojiseourtt not available on sofne items.. The -highest discount available through this documentary, I think the ? vyiti; be Offered. .STORE; HOURS: 9 si.m>1:! • p'm, Monday-Saturday;-Si Bay Kaddtoh quietly «««"tain« as a backdrop. whole community will profit from hearing Dr. S;a!rri.-9-p.'nY.: Sunday;; E x t ^ with me, but Llitm I realized that HUH WUH a study Ground and the pune.l at the weekend acliviUew at tour and porhujw il, should bo shurod. Oren agreed, Temple., it WUH planned long ngo, but the subject and he proceeded to lead l.he [jroup to a cool corner couldn't bo more timely. . of the e-enu'U'r.v and explain the observance of
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Page 12 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 23,2001
Inspiration for TV Character Brings
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Personal Experience to Anti-Dryg Message byOZZIENOGe Borovitz sees himself ami given Mm a When EabM Mark Borovitz his "Raising Souls'* workshops to sense of even greater responsibility, *One person told me that I aow Beth El Synagogue on Nov. 27-28, hell speak to Omaha teens and their have 2000 y e a r s of lineage, and parents about the pitfalls of sub- there's a weight a very holy weight, stance abuse from a "been there, done actually.. .of doing more with the-trathat* perspective. An alcoholic since dition, doing more study, using adolescence and a former drug user. Talmud and all of t i e Jewish literaBorovitz spent much of the 1980s in ture, from the time of Torah till now, jail, charged with various crimes. in making decisions, in guiding peoby TRAC1 KUGLER.Maccabi Games Assistant After finally overcoming his own ple," he recalled. ' Graphic design by KRISTIN MONZ1NGO demons, Borovitz received his rab- Borovitz*s story has even influenced The countdown continues: 261 days information including an overview of binic ordination from the University popular culture. Wlien T ¥ writeruntil the JCC Maccabi Games come to the Games, the specific sports being of Judaism in the summer of 2000. director Stephen Tolkin first met Omaha. The Games begin on Aug. 4, offered for Omaha's Games as well as Since then, he has devoted his life to Borovitz, he described him as a sage, 2002, and run through Aug. 9. Nearly the ages that are eligible for each sport, helping other Jews conquer over- a tzaddik, Whose advice was very 1000 Jewish, teenagers between the summary of the sports, sponsorship whelming odds in their lives and practical. later, when TolMn created ages of 12 and 16, from more than 21 information, housing information, volKate Brasher, a spiritually-themed metropolitan areas in the United unteer opportunities, and the ability to escape from substance abuse which CBS series set in a community advohe likens to the move from slavery to States and Israel, will compete in 10 register on-line. During the week of the cacy center, he used Borovitz as the freedom. Olympic-style sports right in our own Games, athletes, parents and coaches "As a recovering alcoholic," Borovitz model for the center's founder, Joe backyard. Adding to the excitement, can go on-line to see the latest scores said, **I believe that addiction is every Almeida, played by Hector Eilzondo. some 2000 family members, parents, and results as they happen. "Both Mark aad Joe founded a taberbit as harsh as the slavery of Egypt coaches, chaperones and spectators The number of Omaha teens particnacle," said Tolkjn. They made a temwill converge on Omaha to lend their ipating in this event is on the rise. As was for the Jewish people," be said. ple of light in the darkness. And they support to their favorite athlete of Nov. 1, 42 teens are registered. We Borovitz learned t h a t lesson first both did it out of their own suffering." hand. and/or team. are confident that once the communiBorn aoci raised in Cleveland, he The Maccabi "Home Team" is proud ty sees the new website and h a s to announce the newest addition to access to the exciting news about the was active in Ms synagogue through Maccabi media: t h e Omaha J C C Maccabi Games, the number of teens high school and even served as president of its USY chapter. But when Maccabi Games web site. The new to register will grow. web site is now on-line and can be Watch for the monthly Maccabi pro- Borovitz was 14, Ms father died, and found at •wTrw.jewlshomaiia.org by grams. Check out the new web site the teenager's life spbraled down from clicking on the link for "JCC Maccabi and learn about the many ways in drink to drugs, petty theft and Games." Please check out the site and which you can become part of the shoplifting* insurance fraud, extortion and armed robbery. see how you can become part of the action and share in this experience. "I was split,* he said. "I had one Maccabi "Home Team". For more information, please conpart of me that went to synagogue On this site, find a variety of helpful tact me at 334-6418. Rabbi Borovitz and Harriet Rossetto and loved it, and another part of me According to Anna Goiogorsky, that was a thief and a hastier." Beth El Synagogue Education DirecIn 1987, Borovitz was sent to the tor, "Saving others from this same California State Prison in Chino. for suffering-to prevent addiction of all Here, t i e prison chaplain, Rabbi Mel Silverman, encouraged Borovitz to kinds—is the purpose of the "Raising : study, pray and perform mitzvot. Souls' workshops. Because of his own Soon, Rabbi Silverman invited personal experiences, Rabbi BoroBorovitz to become his clerk a t the vitz's message is very credible. He prison, a move that led the Chino helps teens learn to take responsibili& JEWISH FAMILIES inmate on. t h e long, hard path to ty for their actions and choices. His program offers love, respect and a recovery. Upon Ms release, Borovitz and his firm hand, all with a Jewish touch. "We encourage all teens and their wife, Harriet Rossetto, LCSW, coparents to join us for these truly spefounded Beit T'Shuvah—a Los cial presentations," she added. Angeles-based residential treatment The ''Raising Souls'* workshops will center for Jews in recovery from alcobe presented by Rabbi Borovitz and hol and drug addiction. At Beit Harriet Rossetto. T'Shuvah, Borovitz and Rossetto Rossetto, a licensed clinical social share t h e beauty a n d wisdom of worker and the CEO of Beit TshuJudaism with the recovery communivah, is t h e recipient of numerous ty, along with psychotherapy and a community awards, and lectures freJewish 12-Step Program. 1 [do] outreach to Jews who have for- quently on addiction and recovery to gotten they are Jews," he said. Through community and professional groups . Their "Raising Souls" Workshop the "Raising Souls* program, Borovitz also brings his warning against sub- schedule includes: T u e s d a y , Nov. stance abuse to congregations and 27,4:15-6 p.m., the couple will speak ash Parsow to Beth El eighth graders and paryouth groups around the country. Borovitz entered the University of ents on the topic "Shalom Bayit and Judaism in 1996, after his wife read Shleimut: A Healthy Home and "Without the support of Jewish Family Service, kids about the University's new Ziegler Family." On Wednesday,.Nov. 28: who are developmentaliy disabled may be left to their own School for Rabbinic Studies and 9-11 aan. , "Breisheet: Beginning the without that Jewish Identity to comfort them...and I think it encouraged him to apply, confident he Dialogue," is designed for Omaha's does comfort them." could juggle four years of full-tune rab- Jewish educators, youth directors —Carol Parsow on the needs of the developmentaliy binical studies with his "part-time" and congregational rabbis; at 6 pan., disabled in our Jewish community. Carol and her work—40 hours a week—at Beit a dinner for Omaha-area high school students and their parents is followed husband Alan have two sons with special needs. TShuvah. "Sitting with the holy books, learn- by "Judaism's 12 Step Program to ing them, studying them—what could Shalom Bayit: Family Peace." All workshops will take place at be better than that?" Borovitz said. "I have a sense of belonging to a conver- Beth El Synagogue. The program, sation that started 4000 years ago," underwritten by a grant from the NOW IS THE TIME TO TAKE A STAND! he explained. "I got a wealth of Lazier L. Singer Memorial Fund for Please make your increased gift today to the knowledge and experience in looking Youth and the Esther K. Newman/ 2002 Jewish Federation of Omaha Annual Campaign at my own soul and helping others to Carolyn Kully Newman Grants and Stand Up for Jewish Omaha! Committee, is open to t h e entire see their own souls." Jewish community. While rabbinic ordination hasn't The Jewish Federation of Omaha ® 333 South 132nd Street changed how the Beit T'Shuvah comFor registration information, call Omaha, NE 68154 * (402) 334-8200 ® www.jewishomaha.org munity sees hiTt^ it has changed how Gologorsky at 492-8550,
Maccabi Website Up and Running
Jewish Omaha!