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Israeli Celebration Ah Open Letter Adopts Maccabi Theme to the Omaha Jewish by RACHEL BLUM Omaha JCC Maccabi Games Delegation Head Community
Yiddisfae Cup will perform April 14,2:30 p.m. This year's Yom Ha'Atzmaut Celebration, scheduled for Sunday, April 14, 12:30-3:30 p.m., will be a bit different from years past. The Omaha Jewish community will come together in honor of Israel's 54th year of independence, while taking advantage of the Maccabi-hype that has involved so many in our Jewish community. (Continued on page 8)
from JAN PERELMAN Federation Executive Director-*^-—-———••—— On Monday, I participated in an emergency conference call with Israel's Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon. The call was facilitated by United Jewish Communities (UJC) and we were joined by Jewish leaders from around the world. The essence of the Prime Minister's message was this: • Israel is at war. • Israel will do everything in its power to protect its citizens. The ultimate goal is for peace and security in the region for generations to come. • Every act of terror against the Jews in Israel is an attack against all Jews. • In every generation, there are those who have risen up against us. As we have in the past, we will prevail and achieve peace and security for ourselves, our neighbors and future generations. •We need you more than ever to contradict those that support the destruction of the Jewish State, deny its existence and support terrorism and antiSemitism worldwide. Of equal importance was the message we gave the Prime Minister from the Diaspora: "We unequivocally stand with you and the people of Israel," Mort Zuckerman, Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations.
(Continued on page 13)
Pennie Z. Davis Dies Suddenly by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor.
Pennie Z. Davis, the man whose name adorns the Jewish Community Center's Child Development Center, died Saturday, March 30, at the age of 84. Services were held i April 2 at Beth El with burial at Beth El Cemetery. » -, Davis, who started g, working at Greater Omaha Packing Company in 1945 after he mustered out of the army, later became its president and owner. He turned over the reigns of the 500employee meatpacking business to his son, Henry Z. Davis, but still went to his office every day, after his workout at the JCC's Fitness Center. The business, which was honored with the Living the Dream Award in January of 2000 at the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration, employed many Hispanic people and encouraged them to learn English and become American citizens. Both father and son offered unusual opportunities to their employees, providing them with an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher and coach(Continued on page 2)
New Jewish Professionals to Join Community OCTL Hires Rabbi Aryeh Blum by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor-
Omahans Lee and Gary Shyken, left, and Jeff Katzman, students in Israel this year, were often Shabbat guests of Rabbi Aryeh and Shari Blum, OCTL's new "couple". After being without a director since Rabbi Shlomo Levin left last August to become the Program Director at the Riverdale Jewish Community Center in New York City, the Omaha Center for Torah Learning has finally found a "terrific" replacement, according to President Allan Gonsher. Rabbi Aryeh Blum and his wife, Shari, will join the,OCTL this July, after completing their studies in Israel. "We waited to find the best possible candidate from Torah Mitzion and Ner L'Elef, two networks based in Israel which assist in placing kollel directors, to follow in Rabbi Levin's footsteps," Gonsher explained. "Rabbi Levin created such innovative Jewish learning programs as the High Holiday Fair and a Shabbaton at Mahoney Park for 85 people. Rabbi Blum will not only be able to carry on Rabbi Levin's outreach to the whole Jewish community, he will add his own talents. Rabbi Raphael Butler also was instrumental assisting the OCTL with this latest step in our growth," Gonsher added. (Continued on page 10)
Temple Israel to. Welcome New Associate Rabbi Craig Marantz by CLAUDIA SHERMAN, Temple Israel Communications Director Rabbi Craig H. Marantz, Among Rabbi Marantz's responsibilities at the Temple Director of Education at in Atlanta, he designed and Hebrew Benevolent implemented a teacher trainCongregation in Atlanta, ing institute for congregants; Georgia, has accepted the oversaw the planning and position of Associate Rabbi at development of informal eduTemple Israel in Omaha, cation including family educaannounced Michael Walts, tion, youth group programpresident of the congregation. ming, shul-ins, and retreats. Rabbi Marantz was' * He also created and oversees ordained at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of 4" the programming and logistics for the Teen Living and Religion (HUC) in New York „ Learning Center (TLLC) and in 1999. He also earned mas- "' Teen College. ters degrees in Jewish Rabbi Craig H. Marantz Education and Hebrew "I have a real passion for Letters at HUC in Los Angeles. lifelong learning,' Rabbi Marantz explained. He is Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rabbi*Marantz is dedicated "to helping people understand their a 1990 graduate of the University of California at responsibilities as Reform Jews. I have a real love Los Angeles. He attended graduate school at for Jewish people," and as the new Associate Rabbi, Stanford University and earned a masters in edu- he hopes "to reach all facets of the Temple Israel family." ' cation there. Also "committed to social action", Rabbi Marantz As a rabbinic intern, Rabbi Marantz served congregations in West Hills, Thousand Oaks, and is especially interested in "preserving the dignity of San Mateo, CA. He also was a group leader for a children, making sure people have shelter and group of 42 high school students on a six-week food," and caring for the elderly. Exodus trip to Israel in 1996. Prior to that, he "As a rabbi, I feel a deep responsibility to weave coordinated the Help Our Homeless Project in Talmud Torah, the ongoing processes of Jewish Chatsworth, CA. • (Continued on page 10) However, it was as a counselor and unit leader at summer camp in the 1980s and 1990s, that Rabbi INSIDE: Marantz "discovered a real passion for building Teen Age . .page 9 Jewish community and exposing Jewish youngsters Interview with Head of IJfUC page 12 to the riches of Jewish learning and practice. I love teaching." J a n Schaeiderman's Farewell as NCJW's While waiting for acceptances to graduate school, National President page 14 Rabbi Marantz's mother, Marjorie Marantz, knowing how much her son enjoyed Jewish pursuits, Lenny KrayzeJburg Speaks to STouixg Leaders *. page 16 suggested he become a rabbi.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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liiiliiliilMiiill FRIDAY, APRIL 5 Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m., at RBJH SATURDAY, APRIL 6 ADL Youth Lock In, 6 p.m. Outreach Program, (tba), at Temple Israel SUNDAY, APRIL 7 Adult Education, 10 a.m., at Temple Israel Maccabi Decoration Committee, 1 p.m. Your Heart Matters, 4 p.m. Pushkin Club, 4:30 p.m. Beth El Annual Concert, 7 p.m. MONDAY, APRIL 8 YES Program, 10 a.m. Jewish Press Committee Meeting, 5 p.m. OTYG Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., at Temple Boy Scouts, 7 p.m. TUESDAY, APRIL 9 Sisterhood Board Meeting, 10 a.m., Beth Israel Yom HaShoah Commemoration, 7 p.m., at State Capitol Rotunda, Lincoln BBYO Night, 6 p.m. WRJ Exec. Board Mtng, 6:30 p.m., at Temple WRJ Board Meeting, 7 p.m., at Temple Israel Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m., at Beth Israel Federation Budget & Allocations Mtng., 7 p.m. David Elcott Event, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY APRIL 10 Mah Jong Club, 11:30 a.m. Visions Tour of the Omaha World-Herald, and Lunch, 11:30 a.m., out of the building Yom HaShoah, 7 p.m. THURSDAY APRIL 11 Adult Education, 9 a.m., at Temple Israel Walk-in Drop-in, ]0 a.m. Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. JPS Becoming a Love & Logic Parent, 6 p.m. BBG PowdcrPuff Basketball, 6 p.m. All events held at the JCC unless otherwise indicated. The Jewish Prass Is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Martens Hert ai 334-S437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISITTOEFEDERATION'S WEBSITE: www.JewishOtnaha.org (click on calendar)
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by RABBI MYER S. KRiPKE — — — _ - = _ _ _ Parashat Shemini We never get off the hook! Pesah has limited the bread we eat, and some of us long to put the Matza away, and here is the end of Pesah. But, as I said, we never get off the hook! As soon as we can eat hametz, we are immersed in other restrictions of what we can eat. How frustrated we are! What others (i.e., nonJews) consider delicious and tempting, we are told to avoid completely. We eschew what they chew (sorry!) happily. How can that be? Is what they eat tasteless? Oh, no. Is what they eat unhealthful? Not that either. Is it dangerous? Of course not. Well then, why not? Because the text says so, that's why. It is arbitrary, pointless, unexplained and unexplainable. One timid attempt is made to say that all of the forbidden living tilings are predators. But there is no sustained proof of this— because it is improvable. Perhaps the real reason to all of this is the food habits that various peoples develop. Some quite civilized, peoples—not we, of course-enjoy horse meat and others enjoy dog meat, but not we. From this point of view, the habit of a people develops and is firmly fixed before it makes point of it, before it promulgates a law that forbids anything already forbidden by practice. There is a roundrobin here, a circling, a dog chasing its tale. I don't mean to trivialize what Jews have considered holy for who knows how many centuries. The dietary laws have been a major foundation of Jewish continuity. Martyrs have given their lives for them. Tyrants and other murderers have seized upon them as a soft point of vulnerability in Jewish groups. Although the larger Jewish law permits violation of these laws where life is threatened, Jews at various times have willingly accepted death rather than cross the line. The wide-scale disregard of these practices among some Jews of our time is not typical in Jewish history. Furthermore, that disregard is apparently being challenged. Kashrut, that which is ritually acceptable, is finding stronger support in our generation than in the generation before. I remember from childhood an elder of our community who had come into the Hebrew school (uninvited and really unwelcome) who insisted we young boys had to wear the Tallit Katan under our shirts. "It's your "unuform," he insisted. We never paid any attention to him, nor did we argue the point. What good is a "unuform" that is not seen? The dietary laws require a "unuform" practice, arbitrary like a "unuform," but, nonetheless, identifying and unifying. Perhaps the Scot and Irish understand this, understand it automatically. Jews ought to, too.
JNF Recognized for 100 Years of Work with Israel Prize by JEWISH PRESS News Service — — NEW YORK, NY- Jewish National Fund (JNF) was awarded Israel Prize for Life Work this past week by the government of Israel. In recognition of the organization's achievements, "Jewish National Fund has been awarded the Israel Prize for 2002 on the occasion of its centenary, for its extensive and unique contribution to society and the State of Israel," wrote the panel of judges. The prize will be awarded at the culmination of Israel's Independence Day on April 17 at the Jerusalem Theater by President Moshe Katsav, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and other dignitaries. CORRECTIONS Marcelyn Marti-Rogers was incorrectly named as a JCC Aquatics Director in the article about her brother, Curtis Quinn Marti, in the March 22 Passover issue; she was an Assistant Director. In last week's story about Creighton University's colorectal cancer study, the contact person is Stephanie Coronel, the coordinator of the study. The correct phone number is 280-2919 and e-mail is scoronel@creighton.edu. Incorrect information was originally submitted.
(Continued from page 1) ing for the citizenship exam. Pennie Z. Davis also purchased equipment from the JCC's old fitness center and donated it to a Catholic church in South Omaha which serves a mainly Hispanic population. He served on several boards, including Packer's National Bank, Bellevue College (later Bellevue University), Opera Omaha, the Jewish Federation of Omaha and Beth El Synagogue. He also served as President of the International Food and Wine Society, Omaha Chapter, and was a member of the Executive Committee of the American Meat Institute. In 1996, Davis established the Davis Family Institute for Jewish Educators, with a goal of enrichment and enhancement of teachers in Omaha's religious schools and Friedel Jewish Academy, The program opened with a year-long course in Jewish studies. Three years later, as the JCC was in the process of building its Child Development Center, Davis called Executive Director Jeff Aizenberg with "a proposal." After a tour of the still-unfinished CDC, Davis sat down in Aizenberg's office and wrote a check for $1.5 million. His generosity stemmed from the experiences he had with the 'J' in the early 1990s when his grandchildren, Lauren and Cameron, were preschoolers there. Then CDC Director Dinah Raful (who today teaches ESL at Greater Omaha Packing) began receiving donations from Davis for the preschool teachers as gifts for the winter holidays. "Pennie will be remembered for his tremendous generosity and the kindness of heart in many areas, but especially for the Child Development Center," said Raful. "With his gentle touch on my arm and big smile, he'd say, 'Dinah, what can I do? What program can we start?' I always referred to him as our guardian angel in helping us to create new and innovative educational opportunities, recognizing our staff and of course, being the main-benefactor for our new first-class CDC home. "I asked him once, 'Why do you constantly give?' He said, 'I've had such wonderful naches in my life, I want to share.' He wanted to model for others so they in turn would give. May we cherish our memories of Pennie, and yes, follow the model of his generosity," she added. "We were thrilled when Pennie chose to dedicate the CDC," Aizenberg added. "It was a perfect match. Pennie has always been interested in our programs and has been keenly interested in making sure that the JCC was like a second home for his grandkids. His love of young people was obvious to everyone who knew him. "His gift to the CDC was a real expression of that love," Aizenberg added. "We will truly miss him." In addition to his son and daughter-in-law, Henry and Mary Kay Davis, and grandchildren, Lauren and Cameron, he is also survived by a son, Dr. David Davis of Beverly Hills, CA. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Saul and Albert. Memorials are suggested to the Pennie Z. Davis Child Development Center of the JCC. BONA SMITH Rona Smith died March 30. Services were held April 1 at Fisher Farm Cemetery. She was preceded in death by her husband, Phil; brothers, Edward and Sol Lincoln. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Edward and Gloria Smith; two grandchildren, Neal and Steven; sister, Shirley Falk; brother, Norman Lincoln; and four great-grandchildren. Memorials to the Sol. P. Lincoln Memorial Fund, M.D. Anderson Hospital, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, 77030. ANNE COHN; Anne Cohn died March 31 at the age of 98. Services were held April 2 at Beth El Cemetery. She was preceded in death by husband Bennett, brothers, Jules and Phil Gerelick, and sister, Faye Gerelick. She is survived by her son and daughterin-law Doug and Maureen Cohn; daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Bernie Stickgold; two grandchildren, Greg Cohn and Jamie Cohn Frank; and two great-grandchildren. Memorials to Weinberg Village Endowment Fund, 13009 Community Campus Dr., Tampa, FL 33625.
April 5,2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE Page 3
CancSSeigghfing Friday, April 5
6:35p.m,
^^^§^^^^^^ FRIDAY: Tot Shabbat, 7 p.m. Shabbat evening service, 8 p.m. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Rabbi Debbie Stiel and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate at this special Shabbat honoring adult Jewish learning. Musical guests, Yachad, the Travelling Tfillah Band from Kansas City, will lend their musical talents and spirituality. The Oneg Shabbat is sponsored by Veronica and Steve Danon, in honor of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Jessica Corine Danon, and by the family of Mike Walts, in honor of his birthday. SATURDAY: Bagels and Holy Books, 9 a.m. in the Milder Center. Services in the Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m. Jessica Corine, daughter of Veronica and Steve Danon, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah. SITTER SERVICE Available for Shabbat evening, 8 p.m. service, Saturday mornings when there is a Bar or Bat Mitzvah as well as Sunday mornings, when there is Religious School. Make a reservation with the office. No facilities for infants. Cost is $2 per family. ADULT EDUCATION THURSDAY, April 4, Beyond Basic Hebrew, 9:15-10 a.m., Elyce Azriel is the instructor; Adult Study with Rabbi Azriel, 10-11:30 a.m. The focus is on the writings of the Scholars-in-Residence who will join us this year. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE RABBI DAVID ELLENSON Friday, April 12, 8 p.m.: "One Rabbi's Perspective on Judaism: A Personal Response to Jewish Faith in the Modern World. Saturday, April 13, 9 a.m.: "The Origins of Modern Jewish Religious Movements: A Look at the Sources." Sunday, April 14, 10 a.m.: "American Judaism Today: Where We Are, Where We Are Heading."
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: Kaballat Shabbat, 6:40 p.m. The West Minyan is at the home of Donald and Maggie Gerber, 6:40 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 8:45 a.m.; free babysitting from 10 ajn. through the conclusion of services; Junior Congregation, 10:30 a.m., Kiddush sponsored by Sisterhood; Mincha, 6:30 p.m.; Havdallah, 7:37 pan. SUNDAY: Morning services, 9 a.m. Sunday school resumes. Evening services, 7:40 p.m. WEEKDAYS: Morning services, 7 a.m.; evening services, 7:40 p.m. TUESDAY, APRIL 9: Sisterhood Board Meeting, 10 a.m.; Talmud class with Rabbi Kutner, 6:30 p.m. (note time change). WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10: Yom HaShoah community commemoration, 7:30 p.m., featuring Dr. David Elcott. Saturday, April 13: The next Shabbos House, for school-age children and their parents, is 3-5 p.m. at the home of Maggie and Donald Gerber.
ht1£^ FRIDAY: Services in the home. SUNDAY: Religious School, 9:45 a.m. at the JCC.
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: Kabbalat Shabbat IArvit I'shabbat, 6 pan. SATURDAY: P'sukei D'Zimrah, followed by Shabbat Shacharit, 9:30 a.m., TSS (grades 3-7), 10 a.m.; K'Tantan (K-3), 10:45 a.m.; Shabbat Story Time (pre-K & under), 11 a.m.; Kiddush sponsored by Beth El; Humash Class with Rabbi Drazen, 6:15 p.m.; Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah services, 6:45 p.m., in the Chapel. SUNDAY: Shaharit, 9:30 a.m.; Minha-Ma'ariv, 5:30 p.m. Perek Yomi meets following morning services. CAFE L'CHAIM SUNDAY, APRIL 7, 7 p.m. A Gala Cabaret evening with Cantors Herschel and Judy Fox. ADULT EDUCATION WEDNESDAY, APRBL 10: Adult B'nai Mitzvah Class, 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Drazen teaches Jewigh Thought and Cantor Berkovits teaches Hebrew. HAIMISHE DELI Sunday, April 14, 6 p.m. following the USY Talent Show. A totally kosher, delicious and fun deli night. Call Beth El to make your reservations.
Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan on Monday & Thursday, 7:15 a.m. FRIDAY: First Friday of the Month Family Shabbat Service, 8 p.m., followed by Oneg Shabbat. SATURDAY, Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.
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Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Unless otherwise noted, Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.
Services officiated by Cantor Michael Weisser. FRIDAY: Sabbath Eve service, 7:45 p.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m.-noon RQSlBllUMKINfJEWISSHOME MONDAY: Adult Hebrew Study, 7 p.m. FRIDAY: Services, 9 a.m., led by Andrew TUESDAY: Introduction to Judaism, 7 p.m. Greenberg in the RBJH Herbert Goldsten Chapel. WEDNESDAY: AA Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Jessica Corine Danon, daughter of Veronica She is a sixth-grader at Ruth Hill Elementary and Steve Danon, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah School and enjoys acting, singing^ancing and being with her friends. tomorrow, April 6, at She also plays piano, vioTemple Israel. lin, percussion and clarJessica is a seventh inet and plays volleyball. grade distinguished She has chosen to symhonor student at Russell bolically share this day Middle School and enjoys with Frumale Volozinski, dance and spending time originally from Wilno, with her friends, family Poland, who perished in and dog, Leah. Ponar during the She has a brother, Holocaust at the age of 12. Josh Meredith has a brother, Grandparents are Jordan, age 18. Stanley and Beanie Humphrey, Omaha, Carol and Her grandparents are Hy Kaplan, LaCrosse, WI, Chuck Fadke, Lancaster CA, Ethel Danon, Agoura the late Lillian Kaplan, and the late Sophie and Hills, CA, and the late Ike Danon. Meredith Kenyon. Great-grandparents are Alberta Samonek, Omaha, Laurel Fadke, Toluca Lake, CA, and the Brandon Thomas, son of Andrea Gordman and • late Sigmund Samonek. Paul Thomas, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on Meredith Kaplan Kenyon, daughter of Allan Saturday, April 13, at Temple Israel. and Barbara Kenyon, will celebrate her Bat A seventh-grader at Millard Central Middle Mitzvah, Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13, School, Brandon enjoys playing basketball and at Congregation Tifereth Israel in Lincoln. baseball and skiing.
FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
hohfe'!32j-^7^ FRIDAY: No services this Shabbat; services resume April 12 at 7:30 p.m.
He will participate in the 2002 Maccabi Games in Omaha in August. For his mitzvah project, Brandon worked at the Perinie Z. Davis Child Development Center and Temple Israel's Sunday School. Brandon has a sister, Lindsey. His grandparents are Bob and Elly Gordman and Denny and Bonnie Thomas. Rebecca Michelle Salkin, daughter of Rich and Cindy Salkin, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on Saturday, April 13, at Beth El Synagogue. A seventh-grade honor student at Russell Middle School, Rebecca enjoys playing piano, tennis and soccer; she has won awards for her piano playing. Rebecca has a sister, Elizabeth. Grandparents are Don and Emily Pritchard and Janette Salkin and the late Arthur Salkin.
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 4
April 5, 2002
War or Peace?
liisiiill
As of press time, Israel's Prime Minister Ariel never prepared its people for two states in the Sharon had announced to his people that "We are region and instead fomented hatred against at war" against the Palestinian Authority. Yasser Israelis, and, in fact, Jews worldwide. Arafat, isolated in his Ramallah headquarters, We're entering a new stage here in the history of bleated about his victimization and inability to the Jewish people, one that unfortunately has reach his security forces, but managed to "nurse a echoes in the past. If you want to stop feeling helpdying cell phone battery" to complain to more than less, there are things you can do: write to President a dozen world leaders about his "condition." Bush, Senators Hagel and Nelson, Representatives Arafat is was he always was: a liar and and a ter- Terry, Berueter and Osborne, and urge their suprorist, never speaking about the Palestinian State port for the democratic State of Israel and the neche envisions, but only about the Israeli one he essary steps being taken to rid, not only Israel, but the world, of terrorists. Write the World-Herald wants to destroy. It is time to stop playing games. As Middle East and USA Today and do the same. Call talk radio expert Daniel Pipes notes below, it's time to put a shows and let people know if we don't stop suicide stop to Palestinian aggression. All the meaningless bombers in Haifa and Tel Aviv, they'll be blowing suggestions on the table won't fix what is really themselves up at Westroads next. wrong: the fact that the Palestinian leadership And, don't forget to pray...pray really, really hard!
THE HARD LINER
There Is No Substitute for Victory by DANIEL PIPES, director of the Philadelphia-based Middle East Forum •
At this time of war between Israel and the Times envisions that Israel gradually withdraw from Palestinians, half-baked suggestions for a speedy the West Bank and Gaza Strip, to be replaced by a resolution are whizzing by almost as fast as bullets. joint American-Palestinian security force." He then Let's review some of the more prominent schemes. wants Washington "to station American troops on the • A new Palestinian, leadership: Israel's defense minis- ground, indefinitely, around... Israel." ter believes that pushing Arafat out of power will bring These ideas all share the profoundly faulty prea more pragmatic and flexible leadership to office. sumption that a century of Palestinian aggression • Unilateral Israeli withdrawal: Peace Now, a against Israelis can be stopped either by Israeli powerful Israeli organization, promotes the slogan, concessions or by some clever initiative. Not one of "Leave the Settlements, Return to Ourselves" — these suggestions addresses the real problem: the meaning a complete withdrawal to the 1967 border Palestinians' conviction that, by continuing to hamlines. {This is somewhat along the lines of the plan mer away at Israel, they can defeat and destroy it. promoted by Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Although Arafat adheres to this ugly ambition, he is Arabia and just passed by the Arab League.) not its source and his removal will not eliminate it. • A territorial swap: Israel's transportation min- Far from helping, an Israeli pull-back from the West ister suggests trading some Arab-majority areas Bank will signal weakness and thus further inflame within Israel to the Palestinian Authority in return Palestinian demands. Fences and no-man's-lands are for the latter giving up its claims to some Jewish- nearly useless. (Just a few days ago, four terrorists majority areas on the West Bank. from Jordan breached a border fence by digging under • A wall: "A Protective Fence, the Only Way" is a it.) Placing foreign soldiers in a hot zone is a nonnewly popular bumper sticker on Israeli cars call- starter-Americans and Europeans will not accept ing for an electric fence to go up along the 192-mile fatalities in some one else's war. border between Israel and the West Bank. These faulty notions deiive in good part from the • Buffer zones: Sharon favors a beefed-up version of Israeli government having made a subtle but large the fence option with trenches and mine fields, say- mistake in approaching the Palestinians. This was, ing that this "will lead to security separation and as Efraim Karsh of the University of London recently contribute to the security of all Israeli citizens." notes, narrowly to define its enemy as the • U.S. soldiers: Tom Friedman of The New York Palestinian Authority, not the Palestinian body
politic as a whole. In this, it emulated the U.S. approach to Iraq in 1991 and to Afghanistan in 2001. One can argue that the Iraqis and Afghans are not parties to the aggression of Saddam Hussein and the Taliban, and so are not America's enemies, but that's plainly wrong when it comes to the Palestinians vs. Israel. Every piece of evidence suggests and every poll confirms that the Palestinian assault on Israel is a wildly popular undertaking. There is reason to believe that the "street" is more anti-Zionist than the leadership. This battle, in other words, is a conventional clash between peoples. The implication is clear: if Israel is to protect itself, it must achieve a comprehensive military victory over the Palestinians, so that the latter give up their goal of obliterating it. Ending the Palestinian assault will be achieved not through some negotiated breakthrough, but by Palestinians (and Arabic-speakers more generally) concluding that their effort to destroy the Jewish state will fail, and so give up this ambition. There is a war underway, but nearly all observers prefer to ignore this unpleasant reality, preferring instead quick fixes. The time has come to face facts, which means finding ways to put a stop to Palestinian aggression. For the U.S. government, this means halting counterproductive efforts at brokering a ceasefire and focusing on getting Israel's neighbors finally to accept its existence.
Reading Between the Lines by HARRY ALLEN
——
Since Jan. 31, I have been confined to home, recuperating from a badly fractured knee cap and broken wrist—infirmities which were stupidly incurred as I fell on the way to shut for. morning minyan (services). These past seven weeks have been "reading and thinking time", so let me share some of my reading and some of my thinking—the latter, particularly about the situation here and what appears to be a growing and ominous distancing of American Jewry from Israel. We here seem to be much like the "ost Juden," the Eastern European Jews so disdained by the cultured and westernized Jews of Germany in the 19th and early 20th centuries. But, first, to a marvelous book. If you have not yet read Kavalier and Clay, run, don't walk to your nearest bookstore and buy a copy of this wondrous 600page novel. In lyrical language that flows like a mountain brook, this ingenious work weaves a host of postwar issues into a sometimes humorous, sometimes nostalgic, sometimes somber narrative about the comic book industry in America of the 50s and 60s. You'll laugh at the story of the young Jewish
artist from Prague being smuggled out of the coun- Internet. Rarely do I see letters to the editors from try in a casket that supposedly contains the Golem, Jews in support of Israel. I do not read in the many' but you will cheer as he and his cousin come to use Jewish papers, which friends send me, -plans to the comic book industry to narrate their own lives organize rallies in support of Israel in this horrific as Jews in post war America. The book, a Pulitzer circumstance.What I do see are some typical Prize winner, is a great read. Jewish efforts to start a dialogue with the Muslims, Israel's Pesach is a more somber holiday than as if that will save the day. How many Muslim usual this year. The hotels, normally filled with groups have initiated an honest dialogue with Jews, rather than the other way around? Pesach visitors, stand silent. The youth groups have decided to stay home. The A goodly number of American Jews, and sadly, March of the Living program has decreed that some Israelis as well, believe we are terrible Jewish teens can visit concentration camps and oppressors—that as the United Nations chief Kofi remember the dead, but cannot come to Israel and Anan says, we act with disproportionate force to see Jews building a society and coping with our the suicide attacks. I suppose it would be kosher if enemies. The Jerusalem Post editorial commented we blew up a pizza parlor in Ramallah, rather than the program title should be changed from "March of some bomb terrorist headquarters in Gaza. the Living" to "March of the Timid". America launched a war over the 3000 dead at Okay, parents have a right to be protective as the World Trade Center. Our own dead since the individuals, but Jewish organizations cannot, as Intifada began, on a proportional scale, amounts to such, let the terrorists have a victory. There is a 17,000. Are we not supposed to make war on those huge difference between a family decision and a responsible for these deaths? Jewish community decision not to visit Israel. Israel needs the strong support of American I read a number of American newspapers on the Jewry. I hope it is forthcoming.
^JEWISH PRESS
AMoclallon
(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 and 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@jewi8homaha.org; send ads (in .TIF or .PDF format) to: mlapourjijewishomaha.org, Periodical postage paid at Omaha, NE. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Press, 333 So. 132nd St., Omaha, NE 68154-2198. •
Fred Tichauer Chairman • Carol Katzman Editor-in-Chief Maureen LaPour Managing Editor Allan Handleman Advertising Manager Ray Pred Account Executive Timothy J. Ketelsen Bookkeeper Jen Gates Production Assistant George Schapiro Volunteer
JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairman; Penrrjr Endelman, Secretary; Steve Simon, Treasurer; Lloyd Roitstein, Immediate Past-chairman; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordman; Gary Kudym; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K. Marcus; Linda Saltzman; 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 Preps reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the Kashrut of any product or establishment.
April 5, 2002
Jewish P r e s s , Omaha, NE
Page 5
An Imaginative Preview What Could Happen Here by CARL ALPERT-——— • Haifa - The question on everyone's lips: How and when can a solution be found to the IsraeliPalestinian problem? Is any solution possible? Every suggestion, every proposal made from various sources thus far has been unacceptable to one side or the other, and hence can not be implemented. Obviously, the answer, if one does exist, must take some unexpected form which cannot be envisaged or even imagined today. And so we strive to give our creative imagination free rein and present a list of seven highly unlikely occurrences, any one of which may at long last force a peace in the Middle East. We are members of a people who more than once in our history have been saved by miracles. This very land, too, has been the site of extraordinary and unexpected events, so even the strangest of the possible happenings listed below, should not be lightly dismissed. Some of these potential solutions may not be desirable, but their possibility can not be ignored. If we have patience, time will bring us the answer. • For some time the seismologists have been predicting that a serious earthquake is due to strike this part of the world. It very well could be that just as the Israelis and the Palestinians reach another dead end in their attempts to negotiate a peace, the ground will rock and roar, and a terrible earthquake will lay waste to large sections of the country, bringing death a'nd disaster to Arab and Jewish communities alike. For the first time the two peoples will find common cause in seeking to rebuild their lives. • The inhabitants of Lebanon, Muslim and Christian alike, become thoroughly fed up with the Syrian occupation of their country, and in a massive uprising banish their tyrannical neighbor. Lebanon makes peace with Israel, and with help from the Jews once again emerges as an economically prosperous land. Together with the existing
peace with Egypt and Jordan, Israel now has friendly relations on three sides, and support for the Palestinians wanes. • The deadlock continues. More terrorist attacks are answered with more massive Israeli retaliation. The Palestinian population on Israel's borders face starvation and death. They come to realize the hopelessness of their cause, and decide to abandon the struggle. First by the hundreds, then by the thousands and tens of thousands, they migrate to lands overseas, in search of peace and security. The entire structure of possible Palestinian statehood collapses. • The U.S. attack on Iraq becomes a reality. Iraq responds with nuclear and biological weapons, not only against America, but against Israel as well. Washington responds accordingly, and much of the world is plunged into a devastating war in which all of Western civilization is confronted by the Muslim world. The West emerges victorious and the Muslim threat is averted, but at enormous cost. • American scientists, in cooperation with Israelis at the Technion, announce a break-through discovery of a new source of energy, easily produced, inexpensive and even ecologically harmless. Over night, oil becomes unnecessary. As a result, the oil rich Arab states lose all power and influence, and need no longer be catered to. They are ignored, and gradually become poverty-stricken third world countries. The Middle East is affected accordingly, and Israel becomes the economic gateway of the entire area. • Spiritual and mystical influences are called upon. In the face of a bleak future, Israel's spiritual leaders call upon the total Jewish population of the country, together with Jews of the world, to join in fervent, simultaneous prayer to the God of Israel to come to the aid of His people. The impact of the mighty prayer makes the very heavens tremble, and miracles reminiscent of the
Bible days, come to pass. • The Palestinians come to the conclusion that the tiny strip of land along the Mediterranean is too small to house two independent states, and since Israel seems to be here to stay, there is no alternative but to set up the state of Palestine in that large area known today as Jordan, where the Palestinians already constitute a majority of the population. The takeover is swift. With their nationalist aspirations satisfied, the Palestinians enter into a friendly and cooperative relationship with neighboring Israel. In short, anything can happen.
To the Editor: An article on the front page of the March 1 issue of the Jewish Press showed Omaha has raised t h r e e million dollars to date for the annual Federation campaign. A recent article entitled "Jewish Federation Dismisses Eleven" in the Miami Herald caught my attention (while we were wintering in South Florida). The firings came as a result of Broward County (FL) raising only "$6.7 million for its 2001 campaign year. Obviously this is more than twice as much as little old Omaha. But here is the rub. The Jewish population of Broward is 270,000; Omaha's is 6500. Other facts I came across recently: Jewish population in Palm Beach county is 230,000; MiamiDade's Jewish population is about 130,000. Interesting? J e r r y Freeman (Editor's note: Omaha has consistently been listed, among the top five in per capita giving, not only for Federation Campaigns, but also for United Way. Obviously, Omahans are a generous group!)
A PART OF THE MACCABI HOME TEAM! The following people have joined our Home team for housing. We need you to put out your welcome mat...afterall, you're in good company! Please contact Corey Kirshenbaum at 334-6415 today!
GOAL = 350 homes 350
300
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As of Apr. 1, we have 302 Host Families!
Abramson, Michael & sherl Albert, Lawrence a Paula Alloy, David & Carol Altman, Francee Anderson, James & Magna Peck Aufseeser, George & Madeline Baron, Bruce S Jill Belgrade, Jim a Robyn Berman, Harry a Beth Cohen Bernstein, Thomas a Mary Biatt, Michael & Joann Block, Margaret Blumkin, irv & Susie Boehm, Joel & Claudia Brodsky, Sheldon a Judy Canfield, Richard & Sandy Cassman, Frederick a Molline Cohen, Alan a Anne cohen, David a Karla Cohen, Robert a Maria Cohen, William a Doris Cohn, Jeffrey & Pam Cohn, Russell & Jacqueline collls, Harding a Rovfa cooper, Harvey & Rose Cooper, Justin a Joan Cooper, Ronald a Cheryl Coren, Meyer & Fran Cotton, Ira a Marcy Cowan, Ken & Alison Crabb, Ian & Susan Danon, Steven a veronica Davidson, Doug & Juanita Davis, Mary Kay DeBruin, Larry & Hannah Deporte, Dennis & Denise Dotan, Amnon a Beth Edelsteln, Stan a Eiiene Egermayer, Robert a Janice Eirenberg, Lewis Elsenberg, Robert Emas, Eric & Leigh Endeiman, Randy & Penny Epstein, Audrey Epstein, Gary a Jodi Epstein, Gary a Lisa Epstein, Harold & Etta Epstein, Howard & Sharon Epstein, Jeff a Eine Epstein, Jane Epstein, Melvin & Lois Epstein, Paul & Sandy Epstein, Robert & Bobbl Erman, Michaels, Jill Fellman, Marc & eonnie Fine, Paul & sally Fineman.Gien & Hollfe Flnkelstein, Harris Flnkie, David & Judi Flnnicum, Doug a Debbie Fiatowlcz, Pierre
Frank, Ron & Marsha Jensen, Patrick a Lynne . Freeman, Robert a Robyn Joffe, Arnold a Sheryn Fried, Llndy Josephson, Keith & Judy Juster, Sorin & Sara Fried, Samuel & Frances Kahn, Bob a Roxanne Friedlander, Bruce & Pamela Kahn, Marc & Kim Friedman, Beth Kahn, Marcel a use Friedman, Sandy & Amy Kahn, Thomas a Becki Friedman, Scott a Debbie Kaiman, Joan Friedman, Thomas a Sue Katelman, Gary & Lorrie Gallner, Sheldon a Kim Katelman, Lorrie Gates, Harry & Linda Gendelman, Howard &.Bonnie Bloch Katskee, Jerry sindie Katz, Gary & Monica Gerber, Donald a Maggie Katz, Richard a Amy Gerber, Todd a Joell Katzman, Mendel & Shani Gilinsky, David a Katherin Finnegan Katzman, Michael & Carol Gilinsky, Rick a Jeannle Kavich, Jeff a Nanci Ciller, stu a Barb Kelberg, Larry S Leann Ginsburg, Jacob & Orly Gilat Kirshenbaum, Corey & Marcy Noodell Ginsburg, William a Beth Kirshenbaum, Jeff a Sharon Giazer, John & Jennifer Kirshenbaum, Joe a Maxine Glazer, Jim ajordana Kirshenbaum, Matthew &Jenn Godwin, Pete a Nancy Kirshenbaum, Max & Shirley Golbitz, Sherman a Darlene -Kahll, Alan 8, Susie Goldberg, Bruce & Cindy Kohll, David a Janet Goldberg, David a Wendy Kohll, Jarold & Gail Goldberg, Manny a Carol Kohll, Justin Goldstein, Josephs, Jill Kohll, Louis a ivy Goldstrom, Larry s carol Kohll, Marvin & Sandra Consher, Allan & Rini Kodm, Larry a Georgina Goodman, David & Shirley Kutler, Ben a Harriet Goodman, Thomas a Suzy Kutler, David & Debi cordman, Andrea Kutler, Howard & Nancy Cordman, Jay & Allison Kutler, Stuart & Sandy Gordon, Peter & Jenny Kutner, Howard & Nadlne Graul, Lonnle & Diane Lehr, John & Sandra Green, Gary a Sherri Lehr, Martin & Joan Greenberg, Andy a Carole Lehr, susan Greenberg, Barton a Caryl Greenberg, Don & Nancy Leibowltz, Mike & Bobbl Grossman, Alexander & Mary Lepp, Robert & Karen Grossman, Barry a Stephanie Lercher, David a Minnie Abromowitz Grossman, Cary & Andrea Lerner, Dick & Martha Gutnlk, Bruce & Margie • Lerner, Gary & Cheryl Hack, Mace & Rosie zwelback Levine, Michael & Cheryl Hansen, Jeff & Rhonda Levine, Michael a Karin Harris, James & Marty Levlnger, Steve Si Bonnie Hayward, Ross & RhondaLovette, Greg & Sue Herman, Larry & Rhethe Malashock, Larry & Diane .. : Herzog, David & Julie . Malashock, Neal&Jody ...... Manvitz, Todd & Wendy Hess, shari : Hirshman, Stan &Kathy Marburg, Dan & Deb : Hoberman, Michael & Tiffany Martin, Mark iJulle •:••:. Hoffman, David & Phyllis Mavropoulos, Dmitry & Karen Kilngberg ipdck, Ron & Denise McGauvran, John & Kathy Itkln, Jeffrey &" Judy Meyer, Michael 8c Marcle Itkin, Philip & Marsha Meyers, Joseph & Tina '. Jabenis, Jon & Dacla , , Meyerson, Scott a Jennifer Jacobson, David a Nancy Mitchell, Stanley a Evie :;, ' Jacobsbn, Richard & Joanle Morisky; Henry & Parti •••: •' .•- '•: • • Javitch, Gary •". Murow, Allan &janie . .;•.. Javitqh,,Karen : : •....• MusKIn, Bruce SrMary Beth . : : ::•"
Nadoff, Jeanette Nager, Paul & Deborah Nathan, Ira & Carol Neesman, Steven £ Maria Newman, Jeff a Patricia Newman, Murray a Sharee Noddle, Harlan a Nancy Nogg, Steven a Patty Noodell, Jack a Maxine Norton,' Michael Si Susie Novicoff, Don a Carolyn olesh, Robert 8, Donna Paige, Stephen & Martha palmon, Ophir&Roni Parsow, Alan a Carol parsow, Margo passer, Jeffrey a sandy Patkovsky, Ella Perelman, Jan Phillips, Erica, Julie Pichik, Michaels Shelly Pieck, Gilda Pitlor, Steve & Marcia Platt, Michael & Barbara Potash, Merle a Ruth Powers, Ronald a Debbie pressman, Adam a Melissa . Priluck, Ira & Sheila Quittner, George a Sharon Radler, Dave & Gretchen Raful, Larry & Dinah Randone, Eve & Jarred Rauhauser, Neal a Nancy Raznick, Gerald 8< Jeannle Rennard, Stephen & Barbara Reno, Rusty & Juliana Rich, Philips Diane Ricks, Martin & iris Riekes, Steven a Margo Rlfkln, Gary a Caryn Robinson, Andrew 8, Kimberly Rockman, Jonathan a Stacy, Rogers, Charles & Marcl Rogers, Mlmi " Roltsteln, Uoyd a Debbie Ruback, Altan & Jayne Ruback, David & Marcl sadofsky, Rodney 8. Linda saltzman, Errol & Lynn Salzlnger, Fred 8, Lynn sanford, Mark &Vlckl scnlesslnger, Joel Sr Nancy Schneiderman, Scott's Heidi Schrager, Lisa schrager, Phillip & Tern: schrager, Richard & Laura : .,.• Schwartz; Mark & Kirn !• ••'. Schwartz,Ml ghae I &;Rosanne sehweid; -lelf jey-s BonnW Shandeil; Howard & Diane • Shaplrbvlafry & sherry :
Shechet, Maximo & Jeanne Sherman, Mark & Debra Sherman, Michael 8. Patty Slikoltiick, Dave 8. Phoebe snkoinik, Gerald & Lynne Shkolnick, Rodney & Lois Shulewitz, Alan a Cindy Shyken, Paul & Susie Sideris, Gus a Jill Simon, Steven a Marsha Singer, Suzanne Skog, Jeff & Ricki Skolkin, Michael & Andrea Skulskv, Steven Slutzky, Jeffrey & Leslie Solomon, Ardyne Splzman, Dorothy Spooner, Oliver & Gayle Stein, Frances Stein, Harold stern, Richard a Judy Sukiennik, Hyman a Mariene Sullivan, Charles S Louri Sweet, Mark a Lynn Taxman, Jeff & Sherry Teichman, Bruce Terse, Gady & Mlndy Terry, John a Michelle Tichauer, Fred Tipp,. Steven & Marilyn Tsabarl, Eitan & Eadi Tully, James acinda Turetsky, Lazar & Margaret Vann, John & Wendy Vann, Tom Waesch, Guenther & Devorah Walker, Arthur & Mary Lou Wasserman, Jerry & Phyllis wax, James & Esther Wees, Steven a Joye Welner, Richard & ma weinstein, Dale & Kaye Wendel, Scott & Sandra Westman, Thomas & Julie Tully Wldman, Stanley a Barbara Wine, Bryan a Laura wolf, Marty 8, Eadle Wolf, Phil & Nancy . Wolfson, Bobby & sibby ; Workman, Thomas a Keri Zacharta, Larry a Barbara Zacharia, Richard aTerryl zalkln, Steven a Kathleen ZetzmarvTed&Arnee zipursky, James & sally .. . ; Zodb, Barry & Nora Zweiback, Judy '^ ."' ,• ;..•.." Zweiback, Speedy • -'..
Page 6
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
April 5,2002
VISIONS Visions Board meeting is Friday, April 5, 9:30 a.m. In the RBJH conference room. Meet Wednesday, April 10, 11 a.m. at Signatures restaurant at the Doubletree Hotel downtown for an optional buffet lunch. The cost is $12 per person. Following lunch, members will tour the Omaha World-Herald with Chief Political Reporter David Kotok. Discover the Desert Dome at the Henry Doorly Zoo on Wednesday, May 1. Cost is free for zoo members or $7 per person for non-members. Meet at the upper level at 10 a.m. and join us at the Treetop Restaurant following the tour for lunch on your own. Send reservations to Maggie Conti. Deadline is April 20. Join us for an afternoon in quaint Brownsville, NE, for a performance of Something Wonderful: Richard Rodgers' Centennial of Songs, on Sunday, June 2, departing from the JCC at 1 p.m. Cost is $36 per person. Send reservations to Elaine Feldman, 770 No. 93 St., #2D5, Omaha, NE 68114. Deadline is April 29.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN Interested members of the NCJW, Omaha Section, will travel to Lincoln on Thursday, April 11, to speak to state senators on issues about the budget and school fees in this legislative session. Cars will meet at Beth El's parking lot, 144th and West Dodge, at 7:45 am. Please call Sara Juster, 697-3804 or Pam Friedlander, 334-8773.
Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10:15 sum., with Eileen Remer or exercise with Stacey Paskert at l(fc30 a.m. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 aan. Following lunch at noon, Eve Handleman will play show tunes on the clavinova. For transportation call 330-4272.
YIDDISH GROUP Lomir Redn Yiddish: Let Us Speak Yiddish Group OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Join OCTL for Lunch 'n Learn on Wednesday, will meet on Thursday, 1-3 p.m. at the JCC. Call April 10, noon, at the Kripke Federation Library. Anne Skolkin for information at 343-1638. Bring a sack lunch and Ben Gonsher will lead a discussion of the weekly Torah portion. B*NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Breadbreakers meets on Wednesday, April 10, For more information about OCTL programs, call Allan Gonsher, 558-2767 or 330-4014. noon at the Park Inn Regency, when Omaha World-Herald columnist Rainbow Rowell will speak, according to chairman Al Abramson. Lunch WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet on Thursday at the JCC. is $9; beverage service only is $2. The program is Exercise will begin at 10 a.m. For those members open to the community. Tickets are still available for the B'nai B'rith Sports going to Lunch Bunch at Anthony's Restaurant, please meet at 11 a.m. For transportation call Banquet on May 8, 5:45 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Convention Center. Call Lois Epstein, 334-6443. Maggie Conti at 334-6521.
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April 5, 2002
J e w i s h Press, Omaha, NE
Page 7
fi
Birthdays Party5 Tops Off integrated Learning Units
Newman Grants Requests Due April25
by DIANE AXLER BAUM _ - - — — Friedel students recently completed their first unit of integrated studies for the spring Barbara Epstein, chairman of the Esther K. semester. Related projects in science, art, Newman/Carolyn Kully Newman Funds Grants and Jewish studies captured the theme, Committee, announced that committee members "Rhythms of Living." will meet on Thursday evening, May 9, to conFor example, the effect of the moon on the sider applications for grants. The deadline for subtides was one of the topics older students mitting requests for grants is Thursday, April explored in a science unit on Ocean Studies. 25,1 p.m. In the same time period, younger students Grants are made to new and innovative proconcentrated on the life cycle of spiders and grams designed to enhance the Jewish identity of other natural rhythms. Simultaneously, in youth in the community. The Esther K. Newman their different levels of Jewish studies, stuFund supports programs designed for Jewish dents in all grades focused on the pulse of youth between preschool and college age and for the Jewish year by learning the names of young adults under the age of 23 who are not the Hebrew months and the holidays and attending a college or university. festivals that mark the seasons in the lunar Income from the Carolyn Kully Newman Fund is Jewish calendar. allocated to fund programs and activities for This meaningful integration of general Jewish children of kindergarten age or younger. academics and Jewish studies extended into Committee members are looking for programs Hebrew teacher Elinor Matalon, left, makes suggesFriedel's art classes. First, with the help of that strengthen Jewish identity and values tions about placing resolutions on t h e Mitzvah Tree through educational, religious, cultural, social, or Hebrew teacher Elinor Matalon, students to Andrew Taylon, Rachel Reno, Audrey Gerber, and recreational activities that are sponsored by syna- learned their birthdays according to the Elina Yurikov. gogues and Jewish organizations in Omaha and Jewish calendar. Then, art teacher Julie Phillips grouped them according to their birth Music, presents the 12 months of the Jewish calenLincoln as well as Jewish Federation agencies. months. With her guidance, the groups created four dar. As students raised their voices in joyful song, Programs that promote general health, developposters reflective of the seasons of the year from a they underscored their recent learning with catchy ment, and welfare of Jewish children and their Jewish perspective. lyrics like these: "Nissan: Trala spring is here; families are also eligible for grants. Distributions Pesach: Freedom in the air; lyar: We count the days To top off their extensive integrated learning, may be made to purchase equipment, supplies, and to receive; Sivan: The Torah, our belief...." students took part in an all-school "Birthdays materials for these programs. Party" in the school's commons area, decorated Harris B. Finkelstein, director of the Kripke Among the criteria for selecting grant recipients, with colorful balloons for the occasion. Shani Federation Library, provided accompaniment on committee members consider the community value Katzman of Chabad of Nebraska, Jewish studies guitar. After the songfest, Shani Katzman stood up of a program including its special or unique feaconsultant to Friedel, served as leader of the festive to address the assembly. tures, an agency's ability to carry out the purposes event. "On our Jewish birthday, we make a birthday and goals of the program or service, and the costresolution to do some special mitzbenefit considerations of the program. Particular vah, such as visiting someone in emphasis is placed on new and innovative prothe hospital or giving tzedakah gramming. everyday, or saying t h e Sh'ma Organizations are encouraged to submit requests every night before bed," she said. to maximize in-kind contributions to help stretch "There should be a resolution to available funds. perform a mitzvah between yourMembers of the Newman Grants Committee repself and God, and another resoluresent the Jewish Federation Budget and tion to do something between Allocations Committee, Jewish Educational and yourself and another person or Library Services, the Jewish Community Center, persons," she added. Beth Israel Synagogue, Beth El Synagogue, Students shared their resoluTemple Israel, Friedel Jewish Academy, and B'nai tions with the others in attenB'rith Youth Organization. dance. They wrote their resoluBoth Newman Funds are administered by The tions on large paper leaves and Foundation of the Jewish Federation. Applicants attached the leaves to the mitzvah may call The Foundation office at 334-6439 for tree on t h e wall outside t h e assistance. Academy's commons area. Toward the end of the afternoon, the art groups presented their seasonal posters to the assembly, and the Wearing "birthday crowns" decorated with t h e i r H e b r e w science groups talked about their life cycles projects. In. conclusion, Susie Stern-Kohll a n d Alan Louis Kohll names a r e Sydney Nissen, back row, left, Taylor Elberson, everyone enjoyed pieces of the speannounce the Feb. 27 birth of their daughter, Abby and Anna Kohll; and, front row, Isaac Rogers-Marcovitz a n d cial Birthdays Cake. Cleo Rogers-Mareovitz. Leigh. "What fun we all had at this celGrandparents are Lois and Donald Stern and To begin, she led the student body-along with ebration," said Carolyn Novicoff, Director of Jewish Gail and Jerry Kohll. visiting parents, grandparents and siblings—in Educational and Library Services, (JELS). "It was Great-grandparents are Cele Schwartz, Leona singing Hebrew songs. One of the featured songs, an exciting, rewarding opportunity for grandparCohn, and Selma and Isadore Tretiak, all of Omaha. set to the tune of "Do Re Mi" from The Sound of ents, parents, teachers, and students alike." by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Foundation Public Relations Coordinator-—
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
April 5, 2002
iiililliilisl Renata Yurikov, daughter of Galina and Artur Yurikov, has been named a United States National Award Winner in Foreign Language by the U.S. Achievement Academy. Renata, a junior at Burke High School, was chosen based on her academic performance, interest and aptitude, leadership qualities. responsibility and citizenship, according to Dr. George Smith, Executive Director for the Academy. liwstin Friedman, philanthropy chairman of ZBT fraternity at Northwestern University, led a campaign which raised $45,024 for the annual Dance Marathon. It earned ZBT a first-place trophy for the most money raised by any organization. Dance Marathon, one of the largest college philanthropy events in the nation, raised $485,892 this year for Friends of Steve, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization benefitting pediatric cancer research. Dusty is the son of Amy and Sandy Friedman. Two Omaha high school students have been accepted to Genesis, a nationally-recognized summer program for Jewish teens a t Brandeis University in Waltham, MA. Molly Needelman, daughter of Dr. Howard and Lee Needelman, and Becky Smedlund, daughter of Jeff and Debbie Smedlund, will attend the four-week program this July. Molly is a sophomore at Westside; Becky is a sophomore at Millard North. Only 75 students are selected. Genesis also recently received a $500,000 grant from Steven Speilberg's Righteous Persons Foundation, brining the foundation's total funding to two million dollars over a five-year period. Jeffrey P. Katzman, son of Michael and Carol Katzman, has earned a Bachelor's of Talmudic Law from Ohr Samayach Yeshiva in Jerusalem. He has been accepted into the smicha (rabbinic ordination) program a t Ner Israel Rabbinical College in Pikesville, MD, as well as the graduate school of business at the University of Maryland.
Israeli Celebration Adopts Maccabi Theme (continued from page 1) " » ™ — — — . « . « « — First held in Palestine in 1932, the World Maccabiah Games have become the third largest international sports competition behind the Olympics and Pan-American Games under the direction of the Maccabi World Union. Since the Games' inception in the United States in 1982, the JCC Maccabi Games have become the largest single program for Jewish teens in the world. This summer, Omaha is proud to be one of five host cities, welcoming over 800 Jewish athletes from around the United States and Israel to show off our city and our Jewish community. The Omaha athletes, which currently total 94, will help run sports-related activities for our youth. Such games as moonwalks, soccer and golf challenges, baseball and basketball games, obstacle courses, and more will fill the JCC Gym. Arts and crafts projects, as well as an Israeli lunch, and music from t h e local group, Inspirations, will bring a festive Israeli atmosphere to the auditorium. In addition, the Henry Monsky Lodge of B'nai B'rith will once again hold its Trivia Contest (see related article at right for more details). Other entertainment includes music from the Cleveland-based Yiddishe Cup Klezmer Band. Formed in 1988, the group has played throughout the United States at festivals, colleges, and numerous Jewish gatherings. Their show will not only focus on Israeli music, but will include a mix of "borscht-belt" comedy, klezmer, Yiddish theater, and Jewish swing. Yiddishe Cup, known for its raucous and funny performances will light up the stage in the theater from 2:30-3:30 pan., punctuating the end of what's sure to be an Israeli birthday to remember. For more information, call me at 334-6404.
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by LOIS EPSTEIN, B'nai B'rith —
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ions. "Creighton has always been known as a nationally-recognized institution for higher education. But it's the people that have made the difference for me. What you'll find at Creighton are great educators that are passionate about what they do. The small classes and personal relationships I've built with my professors have helped me both personally and academically. We worked together to establish the Creighton Jewish Student Group which has become a strong personal connection for me. There is a premium on this kind of one-on-one education - it's a huge opportunity for whatever you want to be."
—-"-
"The first quiz was a great success and this one will be even better," said Steve Riekes, quiz organizer. "If you like Jeopardy, Millionaire, or Weakest Link, you'll love our game." Like last year's event, the program is a part of the Yom Ha'Atzmaut celebrations on S u n d a y , April 14,12:45 p,m. at the JCC. It is a local opportunity to test your knowledge and win some money for your team and a local Jewish charity or institution of the team's choice, according to Riekes. B'nai B'rith Monsky Lodge will award $250 for a first place finish and $100 for second. Finishing third brings in $50. To honor Independence Day, half of the winnings will go to the team and the balance to the charity. "It's easy to participate in the Second Annual B'nai B'rith Jewish Trivia Quiz," stated Gloria Kaslow, one of the question writers. "You can enter as an individual or form a team of up to six friends or family members." (Those entering as individual entrants must be at least 13-years-old.) To make the community-wide contest fair, Stan Mitchell, another committee member, reminded all that team members may not include members of the clergy or full-time professional religious educators. "The broad questions range from easy to difficult to attract challengers," explained Gary Javitch, Monsky Lodge president. "Unlike the B'nai B'rith Zorinsky Quiz for Jewish high school students that focuses solely on the Bible, this 25-question quiz also challenges your knowledge of Jewish personalities, current events, tradition, culture, and Israel." Answers to all questions will be written, so no one has to worry about being shy, Mrs. Kaslow added. The winners and cash prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the contest. Entrants can submit their names to me at 334-6443.
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CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
April 5,2002
What
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
An American Means to Me \
by Renata Yurikov The plane landed. Her ' grandmothers brother and his Qive me your tired, your poor, family met them. The two hadn't ^^ each other for 62 years. [/our huddled masses yearning to-Breathe free, seen Coming to America changed the little giris life. She had to learn a new lanThe wretchedrefuse of your teeming shore. guage and get used to the carefree attitude about school and clothes. When the girl went to school in Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed Latvia, she had to wear a uniform JJ consisting of a white frock and a black to me. 1 Ciftmy Camp beside the golden door. long-sleeved shirt. In America most kids' didn't wear uniforms and to Those words greeted thousands of 1991. While most people were at them the idea sounded foreign and immigrants on their arrival to home with their families preparing strange. The girl's parents had the hardest America, the land of opportunity and for the New Year, the family waited equality for all people. Escaping from in line for inspection in a crowded and time adjusting. They had to learn new hardships and turmoil, people sought overheated airport from midnight language and find jobs while going to out to find the land until 6 o'clock in the college in the evening. The food in where the streets morning. But the girl's America was strange and unusual. were paved with parents said it was all Being able to have bananas every day—unthinkable! In Latvia, one gold. People from all worth it. corners of the world They were going to banana cost two hours of work. But, have been coming to America—a land of eventually, through all the changes America since the freedom and equality. and transformations, the girl finally 18th century and Finally the line start- adjusted to-life in U.S.A. Now 10 years later, the little girl is even earlier. ed moving. They went But, imagine, each through Inspection 17-years-old and is realizing how of these people had and boarded the a personality, emoplane. In all her seven tions, feelings,'their years, the little girl own traditions and had never seen or past. When technolbeen inside a plane. ogy took over people The attendant buckled Renata Yurikov her in As the plane started arriving by by Rebecca Murow <<<< airplanes. So during the rush of immi- was lifting off, the girl looked down on I stood during opening session, gration in the 1990s, due to Latvia's the land below, a land that had been newfound independence, a girl of her home her whole life, the only watching the eighth graders as they stared at the handful of USYers at seven and her family embarked on a home she ever knew. journey that would change their lives After the 24-hour plane ride, the the front of the room. These future pilot announced that they were arriv- USYers had no idea of the impact this forever. The journey began on a train that ing in Omaha, NE. The girl looked organization would make on each of took the family to Moscow. After down on the land below. So, this was their lives. By the end of the weekend, howevspending a day in Moscow, the family to be her new home. New friends, new er, the Kadimanicks had learned headed for the airport. It was Dec. 31, surroundings, new toys to discover. everything they ever wanted to know
a
much\ she has . accomp l i s h e d , "*> grown and learned since immigrating to America. £3 Meeting new people, <§> », experiencing new changes ^t. in food and clothing has been «£> an amazing event. It has taught *? me to be more mature and not to take my freedom for granted. I think that my parents made a wonderful choice when they decided to come to America, the land of freedom and opportunity.
Renata is a junior at Burke and a member of MZ Yoshanah BBG, Beth Israel and NCSY.
Emtza Region Hosts Eighth Grade Kodima Kinnus
A Lost Feeling by Naomi Wolfson
-
'•
I had this delighted feeling down upon my heart It was so very blissful that it made me grin But now as the days pass by from morning till night I lose that certain feeling that was once within my heart I wish this feeling would not have disappeared I wish I could still be so happy with plenty of delight Upon the roof of my furnished home I sat to ponder I thought of ways my feeling could be a way to fight my horrendous pain When the sun rises I think to myself how much I want this feeling When the sun sets forming vital and pulsating colors, again I must have that feeling . , Sometimes I cry so peacefully in my bed at night Sometimes I just gaze upon this senseless world and wonder why I am here I could wish upon a million stars that dazzle.in the dark blue sky , l-could wish upon a well with a penny that composes ripples . that go on for eternity . ; . Sometimes I get so desperate and disheartened ; Because I want to have a feeling that makes me keep going I need this feeling to help me get through this intricate world I need this feeling to capture me *away for a moment and send me to the clouds in the sky • What ever brings my feeling back I'm sure I'll recognize it cinywhcic,
because my heart will fed whole once more I just hopi- to find \hU feeling by glaring deep inside of myself A n d I hope to nuke this feeling my genuine ideal in life
, Naomi is a freshman at Westside High School and is a member of Temple Israel, QTY&andBBYO.
duced new tunes to t'fillot (prayers) as well as the amazing ruach (spirit) the Kadimanicks would continue to witness throughout the weekend. Friday's evening program inspired thought-provoking discussions regarding Jewish identity, followed by a tasty Oneg Shabbat! Shaharit services were led and instructed by the eighth-graders and %
Kadima Kinnus was last month in Excelsior Springs, MO. Participating were: front: Hamutal and Abby Ginsburg, back: Jacob Phillips, Lev Ginsberg and Daniel Murow. •about USY and many came to the realization of the importance of USTs offerings, such as leadership opportunities, Judaic study, social action, tikun olam, Israel awareness, summer programs, and most importantly, being ,in an environment surrounded by Jewish teenagers. "I think Kadima Kinnus was a wonderful Jewish experience," Abby Ginsburg said of the weekend. "I loved spending Shabbat surrounded by Jewish kids my ago and I feel I got a great taste of the 'USYfeeJing.™ Throughout the weekend, the Kadimanicks participated in a variety of activities that taught them about the many aspects of USY. Crowdbreakers allowed for plenty of time for the pre-teens and teens to interact with one another and begin to form long-lasting friendships. Kabbalat Shabbat services intro-
the Torah service consisted of creative skits, songs, and discussions. The Kadimanicks spent time learning Emtza's regional song and were able to show off their singing talents following Havdallah Saturday evening. A Tikun Olam carnival and dance served as an enjoyable program' for the eighth-graders as well as a successful fundraiser for USY's: Tzedakah Fund. \ Hugs were abundant Sunday morn-j ing as the Kadimanicks prepared to depart for their home cities. They! counted down the days until they! would see each other again-eithcr at summer camp or at Kinnus 2002 in Denver next Thanksgiving. Rebecca is a senior at Burke High School, a member of Ediar BBG and President of VSY at Beth El Synagogue.
Page 10
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
April 5, 2002
OCTL Hires New "Couple"
Temple's New
from page 1) Rabbi Blum, a Florida native, attended the University of Florida before completing his undergraduate degree in history at Yeshiva University in New York City. He will receive smicha (rabbinic ordination) from the Rabbi Isaac Elehanan Theological Seminary (RIETS) Y.U.Jn Israel, in June, after studying at both the Gruss and Katz Kollelim in Jerusalem. "The Torah gives us the most profound, important, and ancient messages," Rabbi Blum said in a recent interview. "Most people don't know that our wisdom is so relevant to their lives; they don't realize that your mindset is directly related to quality of life and relevance to life. We hope to show just how relevant Judaism is, today and forever. Rabbi Blum, who grew up at the Conservative Beth Torah Congregation in North Miami Beach, is well aware of the challenges that face Jews today. He's been involved with NCSY, t h e Orthodox Union's youth group, as director of the Atlantic Seaboard junior division. But he's also been responsible for the care and management of a home care facility for the mentally challenged Jews at several facilities in New York. "I think that many people, especially after Sept. 11, are asking a lot of fundamental questions (about Judaism)," according to Rabbi Blum. "I spent many years in yeshiva learning the wisdom of our sages and history," he added. "I hope OCTL will be a place where all people can feel comfortable to learn something new, answer a question they always had, connect to God, ask new questions, challenge me, challenge themselves, meet other people, or just come over and schmooze." The OCTL was founded in 1999 by a group of Omaha families interested in promoting Jewish education among adults and teens. In addition to the Levins, the OCTL hired a second couple in November of 2000, Ariel and Hadas Orbach, to reach out to unaffiliated Jewish teens and adults. Both Noa Levin and Hadas Orbach served as community teachers for Jewish Educational and Library Services (JELS). "My wife, Shari, has been involved in a plethora of Jewish organizations from birthright and March of ttie Living to the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization," Rabbi Blum continued. "She is also the best teacher
(Continued from page 1) •n-^M»»--^»ll»i»»ilw----.M education, into everything I do as a congregational leader. Every opportunity I have as a pastor, preacher, or teacher is an opportunity to educate about Judaism and help people embrace more firmly lifelong Jewish living and learning," Rabbi Marantz said. Believing that "a congregation has to be warm and welcoming," Rabbi Marantz was impressed with Temple's "very warm congregation and its amazing commitment to lifelong learning. This is a very exciting opportunity for me," he added. He also looks forward to working with Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, Temple's senior rabbi, who Rabbi Marantz described as "very passionate and dedicated." Rabbi Marantz will replace Rabbi Debbie Stiel who has been with Temple Israel for the past eight years. "It has been an incredible honor to be a rabbi of this congregation," said Rabbi Stiel. "I feel blessed to have been part of such an amazingly caring and top-notch staff. I have learned so much from so many people here, and I relish all the experiences we have shared." Rabbi Stiel will be staying in Omaha "at least for awhile," she said. She will be working part-time as a Jewish educator/rabbi for the Jewish Community Center's Child Development Center. Rabbi Azriel reflected on having worked with Rabbi Stiel, "an amazing partner, who has been a great blessing to me personally and a great gift for our congregation." He is also "looking forward to having Rabbi Marantz join our awesome staff. He will bring a new surge of energy, Creativity and integrity to the life of our Jewish community." Rabbi Marantz will be accompanied by his wife, Betsy, to Omaha. They are expecting their first child in April. Betsy Marantz, also a graduate of HUG with a master's degree in Jewish education and communal service, is a seventh-grade Judaica teacher at the Davis Academy in Atlanta. In addition to "hanging out with my wife," Rabbi Marantz said he is "passionate about baseball, basketball, and football." He also enjoys theater and music and is learning to play the guitar. Rabbi Marantz plans to assume his position in Omaha in early July.
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I've ever met and have learned so much from her. "By the way, she makes the best Shabbos meals you've ever had," he laughed, adding" that she accomplishes this using only a toaster oven and microwave, the only cooking appliances available in their apartment in Jerusalem! "She hopes to be actively involved in the community," he added, "so come and meet her; she's not shy!" Shari Blum graduated summa cum laude from Ithaca College with a B.A. in English and Speech Communication. She will receive a master's in education from the University of New England's Distance Learning Program. In addition, she studied at She'arim Women's Seminary and Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in Israel, and Gratz College in Pennsylvania. She has taught kindergarten at the Manhattan Day School and was principal of Lincoln Square Synagogue's afternoon Hebrew School, both in New York City. The couple has one child, a daughter, Meira, age two. "We see a lot of potential in Omaha. We met a lot of people (on our visit here in February), who were really yearning to hear Torah teachings; that kind of curiosity and excitement is contagious," Rabbi Blum noted. "There was a genuine interest in the classes I gave here. I feel I could learn a lot from the Omaha Jewish community as well, a place with an easier pace of life." The OCTL, which has continued its Lunch 'n Learn series and Friday night Shabbat dinners this year despite not having a full-time director, plans to resume one-on-one classes, group lectures, holiday fairs, Shabbatonim, Torah Tots (for toddlers and parents) and other ongoing events when the Blums arrive this summer. In addition, Rabbi Blum has promised new programming to complement educational opportunities available through the synagogues and JELS. In addition to singing and playing guitar, Rabbi Blum will also be the first practicing mohel (ritual circumciser) in Omaha since the passing of Rabbi Isaac Nadoff. "My wife and I hope to be able to share our love for Judaism and the Jewish people with others," Kabbi Blum added. "This is our dream and our life's work. We hope to bring Jews of all walks of life together. We've been apart for a couple thousand years; we hope to change that." M-Th Fri Sat Sun
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April 5,2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 11
Dayeny B . B by EUNIE DENENBERG
If it were only the two hours a week spent with terrific teachers studying Jewish traditions and practices - dayenu (it would be enough). But, serendipitously, our Melton School class recently sparked a delightful Shabbos experiA Pntf&et ofTfm Hebmw UnimmHy ofJerusalem Jr* ence. to tout its value. After a lively discussion of Shabbos, its Biblical Our class of 20 men and women represents severreferences, traditional observances and current al shades of Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and practices, Susan Rothholz said to a group of us, not-particularly observant Judaism, with Jewish "We should have Shabbos together." educational backgrounds from insignificant to So, a few Fridays later, she and Philip, Ozzie and strong. We even get a Christian approach from a Don Nogg, Suzanne Singer, Bonnie and Justin former Catholic seminary student. Horwich, Rocky Stern and Dick Rochman gathered Our unifying thread is our eagerness to learn. at our home. Based on a thoughtful curriculum and class discusThe women brought candlesticks, heirlooms from sion, the Melton School encourages all points of mothers, bubbes and in-laws, and together we view in a sensitive, intelligent format. And the bentshed licht (lit candles), made Kiddush and the memories and maises (stories) people share are Motzi (the blessings over the wine and the chal- wonderful! lah). Together, our family of friends ate, talked, As with our Shabbos dinner, we are enjoying our argued (just a little) and laughed. studies more because we are experiencing them The four of us who attend Melton classes are together. unanimous in our praise of the adult education proHee-nay mah tov oo-mah na-yeem she-vet aject offered by the Jewish Federation. Like the cheem gam ya-chad. How good and pleasant it is Ancient Mariner, we'll buttonhole you any old time for friends to sit together.
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Kids'Snack & Learn at Beth El
Federation to Celebrate Centennial
by JEWISH PRESS News Service
All kids in the two-year to kindergarten age range are invited to be part of Beth El's Snack & Learn Session scheduled for Sunday, April 14. The program runs from 11:30 a.m. until noon and will celebrate Israel Independence Day. To reserve a spot, please call Diane Shandell 333-7226 - or Kathy Weiner - 397-8028 - by Friday, April 12. The Beth El Synagogue Snack & Learn program is totally free and totally fun!
by JEWISH PRESS News Service
Volunteers are needed to help plan events for the Centennial Celebration of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. The Centennial will begin in September, 2002, and conclude in June, 2003. Interested community members should contact Pam Monsky, Federation Communications Director at 334-6431 and plan to attend a meeting on Thursday, April 11, 7:30 p.m. in the Federation Conference Room.
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April 5, 2002
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New Position as Head of HUC Brings Opportunities by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor
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As a longtime student of Judaism, Rabbi David Ellenson usually found himself viewing its three largest movements from the outside. He'd often lecture on the impact of such luminaries as Hildesheimer, Schechter and Wise-all great rabbis and movers and shakers of the Orthodox, Conservative and Reform worlds. But as of last summer, all that's changed. The former Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies as well as a Lady Davis Visiting Professor of the Humanities in the Department of Jewish Thought at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Rabbi Ellenson now serves as the new President of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR), the Reform Movement's seminary, with campuses in four locations: Cincinnati, OH, Jerusalem, Los Angeles, and New York City. And with this change has come opportunity. Tm now beyond the position of studying," Rabbi Ellenson said in a recent interview, "to being able to apply this knowledge to the construction and framework of Jewish institutions." To do that, Rabbi Ellenson places emphasis on two foci: Israel and the Diaspora. In Israel, Ellenson sees the growth in the number of sabras (native Israelis) entering the rabbinate with HUC. Today, there are 27 candidates; next year, he expects between 32 and 40. "The classic choice for Israelis has been either secular or Orthodox," Rabbi Ellenson stated. "Indigenous leadership from the Israeli population will serve them best in their ability to choose other religious options." He also wants to see the Jerusalem campus grow as well, adding more permanent faculty members, not just for the Israeli students, but for the American students who must spend their first year at HUC's Jerusalem campus. And that brings him to his second focus: the Diaspora. "We're training religious leadership for North American Jewish life," he asserted. "And though we have such divergent trends—assimilation, along with a huge growth in the interest of Diaspora Jews to embrace Judaism-it's our responsibility to speak to both. We need to assist those who wish to lead more intense Jewish lives as well as those on the periphery." While the Reform Movement is the largest of the American Jewish groups, Ellenson feels a responsibility, too, to all of Klal Yisrael, all of the Jewish people, "so the whole Jewish community can prosper," he added. And to make his point, he's invited Rabbi Ismar Schorsch, Chancellor of the Conservative Movement's Jewish Theological Seminary, to speak at graduation for HUC in New York. Rabbi Schorsch will also receive an honorary doctorate from HUC, along with Stephen Solender, Chairman of United Jewish Communities (the Federation's umbrella organization) and Orthodox Rabbi Emmanual Rackman, Chancellor of Bar-Ilan University of Israel. Rabbi Ellenson doesn't shy away from obtaining the best teachers for HUC, either. He's recently hired Wendy Zierler and Alyssa Gray to teach at
HUC in New York. Zierler is a graduate of Yeshiva University's Stern College for Women and obtained her PhD from Princeton; Gray earned her PhD in Talmud from the Jewish Theological Seminary. In addition, feminist theologian Rachel Adler, is teaching at HUC's Los Angeles campus. And he's already ordered a rise in the admission standards for rabbinical candidates to all HUC campuses. New requirements include two years of college-level Hebrew and familiarity with Jewish texts and tradition, "so they can teach Torah." Rabbi Ellenson insisted there's a new "permeability across denominational lines." The Jewish community is becoming "more homogeneous" and "more united." That doesn't mean there will always be agreement among Jewish leaders, he added. "Our tradition is based on argument; just look at the Talmud." What it does mean, however, is that "younger scholars are anxious to learn" and it's HUC's responsibility to train the next generation of men and women, according to Ellenson. One young person from whom Rabbi Ellenson received advice when the position of President of HUC opened was Omahan Joel Alperson. "Joel was a student of mine in the Wexner Institute," Rabbi Ellenson explained. "He counseled me and urged me to apply for the job. He helped me move from academia to administration and his advice was tremendously important to me in this process. I'm very grateful to him." Alperson, who served as Chairman of UJC's Young Leadership Cabinet (the first Omahan to do so), is now a member of the "big board," the National UJC Board of Directors. As a Wexner student, Alperson was a select member of a group of young American Jews tapped to learn from the world's leading Judaic scholars. Omahans, too, will have the privilege of learning from Alperson's teacher. Rabbi Ellenson will be here the weekend of April 12-14, his fourth visit here, and will elaborate on the trends he sees in the Jewish community and his plans. Rabbi Ellenson will deliver the sermon at Temple Israel on Friday, April 12, 8 p.m. on "One Rabbi's Perspective on Judaism - A Personal Response to Jewish Faith in the Modern World." Earlier in the day, he will be the guest lecturer at Temple's 62nd Annual Rabbi Sidney H. Brooks Institute on Judaism for Clergy. On Shabbat morning, S a t u r d a y , April 13, 9 a.m., he will speak at Bagels and Sacred Books in the Milder Center at Temple on the topic, "The Origins of Modern Jewish Religious Movements: A Look at the Sources." Services will follow in the sanctuary. Sunday, April 14,10 aan., in the Social Hall, Rabbi Ellenson will address "American Judaism Today: Where We Are, Where We Are Heading." He, too, is anxious to put his mark on HUC-- and, indeed, on the Jewish community. The excitement is evident in his voice and the speed at which he speaks of his future plans. "It's wonderful," he admitted. "I'm so happy to see these changes and to move from 'studying' to actually'doing.'"
• There were three anti-Semitic attacks in France over the weekend. No one was hurt when a man opened fire in a kosher butcher shop on Saturday near the southern city of Toulouse. Earlier Saturday, vandals drove two cars into a synagogue in Lyon, setting the sanctuary on fire. Hundreds of people held an interfaith service at the synagogue after the attack, joined by the director of the city's main mosque. Prime Minister Lionel Jospin said he is "revolted" by the attack. French Jews have criticized their government for not speaking out more vociferously and taking stronger action against a rising tide of anti-Semitism in France. In other violence, a French Jewish couple was injured in a weekend attack in the southern part of the country.
• The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum will allow staff members to travel to Israel for a, conference on Holocaust survivors. The museum had decided several days ago to cancel its participation in the April 8-11 conference at Jerusalem's Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial because of the security situation in Israel. "We have reflected further," the museum said in a statement, "and although we remain quite concerned about safety, we have decided that it is important that individual employees who want to attend this conference should make that decision for themselves and should attend if they so choose." New museum council chairman Fred Zeidman said many Israelis interpreted the original decision not to attend as a betrayal.
April 5, 2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 13
Israel Considers Next Move as Terrorists Launch Daily Strikes by JESSICA STEINBERG • T - — ^ - —
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JERUSALEM (JTA) -- With Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat surrounded by Israeli troops at his Ramallah headquarters, Israel now has to decide what to do with him. Israel's Security Cabinet met Sunday to discuss the question, but there were no indications that any final decision had been reached. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon may have to choose from the lesser of several evils, according to some Israeli analysts. "Sharon finds himself at a crossroads of entanglement, at a junction leading to situations that might not end well," wrote Yoel Marcus, a Ha'aretz commentator. Israel is insisting it won't harm Arafat, and Defense Minister Benjamin Ben-Eliezer said soldiers had strict orders not to harm the Palestinian leader. After Sunday's Security Cabinet meeting, Sharon made a brief televised address to the nation in which he said a daily series of Palestinian terror attacks launched against Israel were "activated, coordinated and directed by one man"—Arafat. Sharon also called Arafat "an enemy of Israel and an enemy of the free world." "Citizens of Israel: the State of Israel is at war, a war against terror" Sharon said. "We must fight this terrorism, in an uncompromising war to uproot these savages, to dismantle their infrastructure because there is no compromise with terrorists." He also compared Palestinian suicide bombers to the terrorists who carried out the Sept. 11 attacks against the United States. In an attempt to rally public support in the face of unremitting Palestinian terror, Sharon said Israel is "at a decisive point in its history. The situation is not easy," but Israel "will prevail." Sharon spoke after three straight days of attacks in which suicide bombers struck targets in Israel's three largest cities: Sunday in Haifa, Saturday in Tel Aviv and last Friday in Jerusalem. Israel invaded Arafat's presidential compound in Ramallah last Friday, cutting off electricity and phone lines. Seven Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers were killed during the operation, which came after Sharon declared Arafat an "enemy" following a March 27 suicide bombing at a Passover seder in a Netanya hotel. Twenty-five people were killed in THE place for the Omaha Jewish community to come for concise, clear and factual information about the increasingly complex issues in Israel and the Middle East.
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Open Letter (Continued from page 1) • "If the Jewish people in the Diaspora were in trouble, we know that the Jews of Israel would stand beside us," Robert Goldberg, UJC National Chairman. So what can we do here in Omaha? We need your voice. Now is NOT the time to stand idly by. To find out how to do more, please contact the Jewish Federation via e-mail, pmonsky@jewishomaha.org, or by phone, at 334-6431. Israel's fight is our fight...Israel's future is our future.
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Israel launched Operation Protective Wall in an effort to stop Palestinian attacks. On Saturday, President Bush backed The Israeli operation, saying Israel has the right to defend itself against terror attacks. Bush also said the Palestinian Authority president "has got to speak out. He has got to make it absolutely clear that the Palestinian Authority does not support terrorists." On Sunday, Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) lashed out at Arafat, blaming him for the recent surge of terror attacks against Israel. Speaking on the TV show "Fox News Sunday," Lieberman also said he feared the Palestinian leadership had been "hijacked" by extremists whose goal was not statehood, but the "annihilation of Israel." "This is not the time to stop the Israelis from doing what they are doing in their own selfdefense," Lieberman added. Arafat, meanwhile, remained defiant. Confronted with the unremitting Palestinian terror, Israel is preparing to expand its military activities. The Israel Defense Force may take control of Palestinian cities in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, Army Radio reported Sunday. In a move reflecting the possibility of more military action, the army issued 20,000 call-up notices.
that attack. Late Sunday night, Israeli troops widened their operation, taking over the Palestinian town of Kalkilya. Eight Israeli soldiers were injured in what is known as Operation Protective Wall. Israel's Army Radio reported that electricity and water were cut in Kalkilya before the army pushed into the city. Israeli officials charge that Kalkilya has served as a base for terror attacks on nearby Israeli cities. On Monday, Israeli tanks briefly rumbled into Bethlehem and the nearby villages of Al Khader and Beit Jalla in an operation Israeli leaders said was designed to end Palestinian terror * attacks. A few hours after the incursion, the tanks left Al Khader and they also pulled back in Bethlehem to patrol the town's outskirts. Also on Monday, an Israeli was killed near Jerusalem's Har Homa neighborhood by a Palestinian sniper. And in another incident, eight Israelis were injured, one seriously, in a Palestinian ambush near Ramallah.Later Monday, three people were injured, one seriously, when a car exploded in downtown Jerusalem. A Palestinian man who was driving the car died in the explosion, but it was not immediately clear whether he was a suicide bomber or the bomb detonated prematurely. The seriously injured man was Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, right, and Chief of a police officer who had stopped the car for a Staff Shaul Mofaz, center, visit an IDF army base in security check. central Israel Tuesday morning. Photo by ISRANET.
A trip to Israel should nil your heartstrings, ot your purse strings. Fly roundtrip to Israel and save 30%* with these low airfares. Children under the age of 12 pay 75%.
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The purpose of ISRAEL 101 is to educate the community on the serious and complex issues that face the State of Israel in this time of crisis so that we are prepared to engage in pro-Israel dialogue.
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Page 14
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
April 5, 2002
Omahan Completes Three Years as NOW National President by JAN SCHNEIDERMAN, NCJW National President, 1999-2002
Three years ago and 3000 miles from here, I stood state. We promoted hate-crime legislation. We Resolu-tions to guide us, high on our agenda was before you, my sisters in the Jewish community, informed our government and our communities the issue of domestic violence prevention. Some of with our report, Opening a those include: A playlet named Yellow Dress, a and accepted the honor of . _. New Window on Child Care court watch program, silent witness programs, a serving as President of this x and through it, we reinforced resource guide for teen relationships, and hotlines organization. Humbled and our commitment to creating, for victims of domestic violence. NCJW Sections' proud, I looked forward to improving and guaranteeing efforts on this issue have brought us national this 'so-quick-to-pass' trienniAmerica's children and their recognition. We are, by example, the model for um with excitement and the families a better future, by other national organizations, who surely note that conviction we would meet all making sure they receive "A cry for help was answered and a difference was challenges, take all opportuquality, affordable and acces- made." nities and overcome all obstasible child care. . Sadly, it will be a long time before anyone will be cles-planned or unforeseen— We teamed up with Marian able to reflect on the past without mention of the with the courage, compassion Wright Edelman's Children's terrible events of Sept. 11. Though it is with a and creativity it would take to Defense Fund as the only heavy heart I recall the tragedies, it is with pride make a difference. Jewish organization, in fact, and gratitude that I note the immediate and endurAnd now that we have the only women's organiza- ing response by our Sections. Six months after that arrived at both a new triennition, to steer the progress of dark day, NCJW New York Section is still lauded um and a new millennium, it **> the movement and act to on New York city television stations for its continuis my final honor, as President of the National Jan Schneiderman gave her final "Leave No Child Behind." We ing work in the recovery effort. As such, we can Council of Jewish Women, to keynote address as National registered, educated and look upon our response to Sept. 11 and say, "A remind you of all the chal- President of the National Council of mobilized thousands of voters wound was tended to and a difference was made." NCJW is an organization based on Jewish values, lenges we have met, all the Jewish Women at its recent national j n o u r "Promote the Vote 2000" program-all this, in so it is appropriate and indeed vital, that we take opportunities we have taken, convention in Los Angeles. all the obstacles we have overcome. In short, of all addition to the countless and critical differences every opportunity to made a difference for women made in local community services, Section-by- and children in Israel. One of our greatest accomthe differences we have made. When we look back on our successes over the past Section, across the country. Indeed, wherever plishments this triennium has been the creation of three years, we can take pride in our work, not only NCJW was need, "A cause was taken up and a dif- the NCJW Women and Gender Studies Program and The Women's Forum at Tel Aviv University. as social advocates, but as Jewish women. For as ference was made." The services and advocacy we perform for others And Yad b"Yad, which emanated from our longRabbi Bonnie Margulies reminds us in the current edition of the NCJW Journal, social activism in has led us to improving and enhancing our own standing Ship-A-Box program, has raised more dolpursuit of social justice is a critical component of organization and our own members through leader- lars than ever for organizations and institutions Jewish life. The instructions to "seek peace and ship development initiatives, including our that promote children's literacy. From books to pursue it" and "justice, justice, you shall pursue" Leadership Conference, and our annual Leadership computers to research, NCJW can proudly proclaim, "An opportunity was taken and a difference are clear and compelling calls to advocacy and com- Retreats. We encouraged and trained NCJW members to go was made." munity service. Forty-two years ago, when the idea of a woman's As you know, NCJW is uniquely organized to on to higher offices in NCJW or to move into busianswer these calls. We are the only Jewish organi- ness or politics. NCJW members now sit on City right to choose was a scandal and day care a far-off fantasy, this prospective NCJW zation that fulfills its mission through the services councils, member was recruited by telephone we provide to 500 communities through our 128 S t a t e before her bags were unpacked Sections, who effect change on the local, national Legislafrom her honeymoon. These days, and international levels. t ur es, such a person may be harder to find It is not the number or size of our programs, but foundaat home. But you'll know her when the effectiveness and sincerity of our members that t i o n you see her. She'll be a Jewish keeps NCJW Sections working for a better world, boards, woman, of any age, bright, busy In fact, it is my opinion that every active NCJW corporate and passionate about social justice member earns the equivalent of an advanced b o a r d and community service to her comdegree in community service and advocacy! The col- r o o m s , munity. lective results of this individual advocacy and ser- and at vice are enormous. ' the helm Do her a favor. Insist that she join Over the past three years, we developed advo- of their The Omaha delegation to NCJW's National NCJW. And should she ask what cates and conducted advocacy campaigns on issues own com- Convention included: Carol Bloch, outgoing she can get for her time, energy, as diverse as gun control, child care, charitable panies. National Board Member, left; Beth Friedman, Deb advocacy and service, simply smile choice, and peace in the Middle East, We worked With Marburg, Cheryl Lerner, Sally Zipursky and Cindy and say, "Your life will be enhanced on issues concerning the separation of religion and our own Goldberg (not pictured: Kim Noddle). and a difference will be made."
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J e w i s h Press, Omaha, NE
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It happens every year, I swear, and it's just happened again. One minute somebody goes in the kitchen and I hear "aren't there any more hamantashen? Who ate the last one?" And in what seems like only a very short time later, I walk into the groceiy store and there's the Passover display of this year's products. What I can never understand is how it gets to be time to think about matzos when the last of the poppy seeds are barely gone. Whether or not I can understand, the days fly by and it's already time to start wondering exactly how I'll find everything I need for our seder table. Of course, just because we're still in the southwest doesn't mean I don't have access to certain items I consider mandatory, except for a few isolated items. Like fresh fish—the kind I use to make gefilte fish. I've lost count of how many years I've been making the trip to south Omaha, to the fish place everyone knows about. The place where the fish are still swimming around in a huge tank, thereby certainly insuring the freshness of the one or two I buy. The same man has been taking my order (on the phone) for ages, and knows exactly how I like my fish prepared. I think he's still wearing the same apron too, but I don't worry about such things. I know I can depend on him and never worry from the time I order the fish to the time I unwrap it in my kitchen. Last year, Pesach 2001, was the first year I found myself making the seder here in Arizona, instead of in Omaha. Most everything went according to my ancient rules, right up to the time I said, "Okay, where do I go for my fish?" Well, you wouldn't believe all the mishagoss which followed that innocent question. And the blank looks on faces of people who should have understood what I was asking for. I mean, when I'm in a fish market and ask for buffalo, I don't expect somebody to tell me to look in the freezer in the meat department, where I'd find buffalo hamburger and roasts. Go try to make somebody like that understand I'm not looking for something which once traveled on four legs, but for something which swam in water! They thought I was nuts, and before I finished my hunt, I nearly was. Eventually, I discovered that a fancy-shmancy market nearby had (the year before) special ordered both buffalo and carp, no doubt for a few of their Jewish customers. I made a trip to the place I thought would solve my problem, and sure
enough, they said they'd have both. I gave them my order, which they faithfully noted on their "customer request" order form, and was assured I'd have my fish in plenty of time for yomtov. Eight. That is, right up until I started my daily trips to ask, "Has my order come in?" To make an unpleasant story short, it never came. I was expecting a modest 10 or 12 guests, but every one of them knew they could count on my home-made gefilte fish. This was including one of my kids, whose mouth started watering from the time he called and said, "We're coming for Passover." Mind you, I tried many other places which sell fish, including the gigantic Chinese Market famous for everything anybody ever heard of, including fresh fish. They knew what I meant when I said carp, but they had a variety different from our midwestern type, and besides, they refused to clean and fillet it for me. They cut it up, but in such small pieces it was nearly impossible to work with. Before it was all over, I gave in and ordered ready made gefilte fish from one of the local Jewish delis. The owners are from Chicago and I was assured they make it very much as we do. I did a "taste trip" lunch and found it was pretty good...similar to mine but not quite the same. I finally said ok, was prepared to order one piece per person, then they told me how they were priced. I must admit I've not been so surprised since the last time I ordered a cup of coffee in a New York hotel. The piece of fish was huge, and so was the cost! Never mind. Who is going to be cheap at a time like this? Of course I bought it and it was fine. Not like mine, but fine. Maybe the thing that bothered me most about it was nobody seemed to think it wasn't mine! Well, that's the saga of t h e fish in Scottsdale. That is, last year's saga. This year I hope to do better, since after the Pesach past, I learned of a fish market in an unfamiliar neighborhood which did, in fact, understand about buffalo and carp. I filed the name and address away and will check it out very soon. In the meantime, just to be on the safe side, I may put in a call to my friend in south Omaha (the one with the apron) and find out if he could air express my order to me. To tell the truth, I'd feel so much more comfortable about the whole thing if I could get his fish. As far as the cost of having fish air expressed hey, it couldn't figure out more per fish ball then the deli charged! That's my fish story. And every word of it is true. I've got witnesses.
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391-2585 There are at least 30 operas based on the Don Juan legend. In 1787, W.A. Mozart launched his opera, Don Giovanni, which has stood the test of time and maintained its popularity with critics and the public. Opera Omaha performs it Wednesday and Friday, April 10 and 12, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 14, 2 p.m. at the Orpheum Theater. For ticket information, call 402-34-OPERA or toll-free: 877-346-7372 or visit Opera Omaha's website: www.operaoinaha.6rg.
Folk music legends Peter, Paul and Mary perform tomorrow night, April 6, 7:30 p.m. at the Lied Center for Performing Arts in Lincoln. Peter Yarrow, Noel Paul Stookey and Mary Travers made their debut more than 40 years ago at Greenwich Village's Bitter End coffeehouse. Since then, the trio has created a legacy that includes such timeless recordings as "Blowin' in the Wind", "If I Had a Hammer", "Leaving on a Jet Plane" and "Puff, the Magic Dragon." For tickets, call 402-4724700 or online at: www.liedcenter.org.
The final family concert of the season is Sunday, April 7, 2 p.m. at the Rose Blumkin Center for Performing Arts when the Omaha Symphony performs Peter and the Wolf. Tickets are $9 for adults, $5 for children and can be purchased at the box office, 342-3560, or at www.omahasymphony.6rg.
The award-winning musical classic, Carousel, opens at the Omaha Community Playhouse on April 19 and runs through May 19. For tickets, call the box office, 553-0800 or tollfree: 1-888-782-4338 or purchase tickets online at: www.omahaplayhouse.com.
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Page 16
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
April 5,2002
Olympic Gold Medalist Lenny Krayzelburg to Address Young Leadership by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director
Krayzelburg will relate his story in coming to America with his family and how he achieved his dream of swimming in the Olympics, complete with setbacks and disappointments, during his address to Omaha's Young Jewish Leadership. Krayzelburg started swimming at the age of eight. By age 10, he was swimming five hours a day as well as running and lifting weights, which most US swimmers don't encounter in their training until they reach college. The Soviet government sponsored his training sessions and early on he was considered an Olympic prospect. Krayzelburg quickly learned the meaning of hard work and dedication. When the Krayzelburgs arrived in the U.S., Lenny put his swimming career on hold. He worked as a lifeguard and helped maintain the pool ,at the local Jewish,Community Center, where he managed to swim just a few hours a day. He studied at Fairfax High, a school with no swim team, which made it extremely difficult to get a college scholarship to continue his education. Lenny finally enrolled at Santa Monica College and after only one season, won the state junior college Jewish Omaha has had an event. „ . . ,, , , , ., title. Krayzelburg's coach at Santa Monica, Stu T_ •j »,.n «Tir J J J J. i Soviet emigre Krayzelburg won gold at the , , ^ , . , Blumkin, realized his potential and approached said Miller. decided ...... the Maccabiah Mark Schubert, head coach at the University of 2000 ^Summer ™ Olympics. big splash ^Ye and inviteto make Lennya nnnn . Games. It and was Southern California. After one workout, Schubert Olympics, Krayzelburg, who's become a real Jewish-American the most incredible event next to the competing with all Jewish athletes makes it even accepted Krayzelburg into his program. hero, to speak to us. "In addition to meeting Lenny Krayzelburg, we'll more unique." Since then, his swimming has gone from strength be presenting Sally and David with the Young Krayzelburg, who was born in the Soviet Union, to strength: he won the national title in 1997, the Leadership Awards in the presence of their peers. visited Israel for the first time during the world title in 1998, set world records in 1999 and It's a real tribute to them to be recognized at this Maccabiah Games last summer. Born in Odessa, won Olympic gold three times in 2000. Krayzelburg unique event," Miller added. Ukraine, Lenny and his family immigrated to the said he is anticipating a great time during his There is no charge to attend this event, however United States in 1989. The family left the former upcoming visit to Omaha. reservations are required by calling Young Soviet Union because of the rampant anti"I appreciate the opportunity to talk to the young Leadership Director Sharon Kirshenbaum at 334- Semitism and the very real possibility that Lenny Jewish people in Omaha. This will be my first trip 6485, or e-mail her at skirshenbaum^jewishom- would be drafted into the Soviet army. He became to Omaha and I'm looking forward to it—the first aha.org. a U.S. citizen in 1995. time anywhere is always fun!" he said. Lenny Krayzelburg, the Jewish swimmer who captured three gold medals at the 2000 Olympic Games, will speak to the Jewish Federation of Omaha's Young Leadership Division Thursday, April 25, 67:30 p.m., at Ironwood Golf and Country Glub. In addition, the Lois Jeanne Schrager Memorial Young Leadership Award will be presented to Sally Zipursky, and David Gilinsky will receive the first Bruce Fellman Memorial Young Leadership Award at the event. 2002 Young Leadership Chairpersons Michael Miller and Susie Noddle Levine are eager for Omaha's Jewish young leadership to get together, especially for the opportunity to hear Krayzelburg's inspiring story. "It's been a while since Young
Krayzelburg will talk about his experience at the Maccabiah Games in Israel last summer. "I never considered dropping out," said Krayzelburg during a telephone interview from his home in Los Angeles. "It's important to show support for Israel," he continued. "The unity that we have for one another as Jews was evident vciy»vxicxc a at Ceverywhere U
Temple Israel Presents \
V
The entire community is invited to attend an evening of glorious liturgical, classical, folk, and Broadway show music featuring a decade ofcantorial talent. A gala reception will follow.
Temple's Cantor Wendy Shermet will be joined by former Cantors Jennifer Blum, Karen Webber-Qilat and Hazzan Erik Contzius Saturday, April 20, 2002 8:00 p.m. at Temple Israel General Tickets: Adults $18, Youth $9 Benefactor Tickets ($100 for two) Sponsor Tickets ($200 for four) Patron Tickets ($300 for four)
Call Temple Israel at 556-6536 to reserve your tickets. Send your check, payable to Temple Israel Cantors Concert, to Temple at 7023 Cass Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68132.