Vol. U00(1
No. 48
Omaha, NE
1 Elul, 6762
A u ~ u r9,2002 t
ERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 81 YEARS
Maccabi a Hit CC
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Well-Organized Opening Goes .Off Without a Hitch by BEN DELMAN Jewish Press Student Intern
Over the yeare, Omahals Civic flags, the Portland team all wore hat Auditorium has hosted a multitude of umbrellas-one member carrying a events, high school graduations, giant rain cloud. When-the Israeli indoor football, and auto shows. What delegation was announced the entire the Civic hosted laet Sunday night audience gave them a standing ovawas far different. It waa the sight of tion and cheered. The flashes of camthe opening ceremonies of the 2002 eras beamed throughout the arena. The crowd cheered loudly again when Maccabi Games. Ae the crowd walked in, one couldn't the Omaha team, the last to enter, help but notice the Omaha city police' paraded to their seats. When the athletes were all seated, care and other aecurity personnel. The offxere' presenaa is to ensure the.. .Co-chairwomen of the games, Jodi shock and ~ a r s h a Pitlor ed the many people who helped on the games. They even promthem American, Canadian and Israeli. ised their husbands that after this m.Oiant ecreene allowed the close week they wouldn't even utter the to WOll in attendance to get a better word "Maccabi!" Bdbre the competition even began, view,* crowd formed a eemick.de the warnan annotmced their own stab: 915 athhtee, 300 A, chaperone8 a d d$egath heads, 26 JCC staff, ',h parade of atht&taa. bdarter of '5000credentials, 300 hoet families, 400 W b L , t y d lo'd t d e q p wtdon *.t-,mtahirte, 1 9 , m t ~ ~ ~ d m d i t y Dave t f f & b e. F e u T&a-Cola, 1126 medale to be awaided,
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.&,#@&m,&*inibm&m dqmt the place fiam which they came; ouch an local r?laimn to fame and famow meideate of the area hty-bur d i f b mt delegations &om all wer the country, and an Iameli debgation parrded out. 'l'he Northern P i team came m t &om the airport,grabbedpizza andhetadedOUt, As each group came out, led by a local voluntem or former Omaha Maccabi psrtidpant, they were greeted by applawo. Thib did not mean
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gine traded. Following the co-chairs remarks the two acretens showed a video of t h e leadere of Maccabi World Union, Maccabi USA and Maccabi Canada welcoming wetryone to the gamuo, while John Iannon'a Irncrgine played in fihe backgmmd. . Rabbi Arieh Azriel of Wnple Israel gaye an ownin# invocation noting,
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 2
August 9, 2002
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SAMUEL COLICK Samuel Colick died Aug. 1 in Marietta, GA, at the by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE — — — — — — — — — age of 87. Services were held Aug. 4 at Golden Hill Parashat Shoftim Cemetery. Our Sidra has the famous phrase, Justice, justice Colick was President of B'nai B'rith in Council shall you pursue! The text goes on to say that the Bluffs, as well as Congregation B'nai Israel. He was pursuit of justice makes possible the life in the Holy awarded a Purple Heart in World War II. Land or in any land. Without justice, there can be He is survived by his wife, Lottie; daughter and no stable life. The text goes on further to warn son-in-law, Edie and Howard Hapner; grandchilagainst the practice of pagans, who planted sacred dren Brittany and Stephanie, all of Marietta. trees near their altars. We are warned against this Memorials to Haven House Hospice, 5411 practice: Nature is not God. Northland Dr., Atlanta, GA 30342. The rabbis pointed out that justice is more important than sacrifices, for sacrifices could be offered only at the ancient temple. But justice can prevail Hebrew U. to Honor Victims whether there is a temple or not. JERUSALEM (JTA)-- Hebrew University honored Furthermore the sacrifices availed only for those the victims of last week's terror attack at a school who erred by mistake, but justice offers atonement cafeteria. A ceremony was held Wednesday, one both for one who offends by mistake or on purpose. week after seven people were killed and more than And again, furthermore, sacrifices and the temple 80 wounded in the terrorist bombing. were good only for humans, but the rabbis theorized Representatives of countries whose citizens were that justice was meaningful both to humans and to murdered or injured were expected to attend. heavenly beings. And again, furthermore, the sacrifices and the temple would be operative only in this world, but justice prevails whether in this world or the world to come. As you see, the rabbis played with this idea of justice and considered it of the highest and most critical value that human beings can rise to. Does the principle of justice change from genera- by JEWISH PRESS News Servicetion to generation, from place to place, from culture A new study to evaluate the safety and effectiveto culture? It is obvious that it is true; justice is ness of an oral medication for treating symptoms of described or defined differently in different places Crohn's disease is now underway. Participants who and in different times. have been diagnosed with Crohn's, male and A case in point is the death penalty which is exer- female, ages 16 and older, are needed. Symptoms of cising the thought and opinions of Americans in our Crohn's include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight own day. Does any organized body of human beings loss and fever. All qualified participants will receive have the right to take the life of another human study-related medical care and study medication. being? They also must be willing to attend up to nine visOr put it at the simplest, what penalty is there for its with a local doctor over an 18-week period. speeding? For speeding on the highway, or main For initial prescreeing, call 1-888-STUDY-97 or streets, or neighborhood streets? The new driver, visit: www.Clinical Trials.com. commonly a teenager, must learn to recognize the differences between this place and that. And he sometimes has difficulty in accepting community norms about speed limits here and speed limits there. Is this a matter of justice, or is it simply a by CLAUDIA SHERMAN matter of practicality? Foundation Public Relations Coordinator ———»»•~— "Justice, justice shall you pursue" suggests that it Applications for grants from the Phillip G. is not easy to produce justice, for it is always run- Schrager and Terri L. Schrager Foundation are due ning away and we must pursue it. And the Torah in the office of the Foundation of the Jewish suggest to us by this phraseology that it is no easy Federation by Tuesday, Sept. 24, announced task to produce justice, justice;A and B have differ- Martin J. Lehr, president of the Schrager ent ideas of what justice is, and what is justice to A Foundation. may seem like oppression to B. Allowing ourselves Established in December 1984, the Schrager to play with this thought, it becomes apparent that Foundation supports charitable, educational, and it is not easy to effect justice in any society. It religious activities of the Jewish Federation and requires the best minds, legal and ethical, guided other philanthropic organizations in the Omaha by and limited by the best intentions of the human area. Applicants are encouraged to submit creative heart. and innovative programs for funding. Organizations are also asked to pursue in-kind contributions to maximize the resources that are available from the LAST CALL! Schrager Foundation which will meet this fall. Personal Greetings For a grant application or for assistance, contact from Individuals and Families Marty Ricks, Jewish Federation Foundation execuwill still be taken for the New Year's Issue tive director at 334-6440, or Laurie Grasso, of the Jewish Press. Call 334-6448 today! Foundation administrative assistant at 334-6439.
All events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. The Jewish \J Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar p fc accurate or (or questions, call Marlene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT THE FEDERATION'S WEBSHTE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)
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PEOPLE W H O READ NEWSPAPERS ARE
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August 9, 2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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FRIDAY: Men's Club, 11:45 a.m. All male members of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly informal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. Join us for some relaxation and great conversation! Shabbat Evening Service, 5:30 p.m. Rabbi Craig Marantz and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate; Rabbi Marantz will speak on 'Tehuda Amichai: Poetic Rebel, Lover of Jerusalem." The summer study topic, which continues with "Remarkable Jews: Revolutionaries, Rabbis, and Romantics" focusing on Jews throughout history who have made a difference. SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 a.m., in the Milder Center. Please join us as we continue our study of Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries: The Amidah. Services in the Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m. SITTER SERVICE Sitter Service is available Friday evening at the 5:30 p.m. service. Please make a reservation through the Temple office so we may plan accordingly. Cost is $2 per family. Sorry, there are no facilities for infants. OUTDOOR SUMMER SERVICE Friday, Aug. 16, 6 p.m. The evening begins with a bring-your-own picnic supper, followed by a worship service, led by Cantor Shermt. Bring sports equipment to the service, which will be held at Ed Zorinky Lake, Shelter Two, 156th St. Entrance. A sitter will be provided for young children. An indoor service will be held at Temple Israel, 5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home. SATURDAY: Havdallah and potluck dinner at the Ferber home. Call 592-4082 for details. TOT SHABBAT FRIDAY, AUG. 23, 7 p.m. Bring your youngsters for games, fun and song to Tot Shabbat Services at the synagogue. Hebrew school begins Sept. 3; for information, call 932-6931.
FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m.
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, 7 p.m. (For those who accept Shabbos early at Kabbalat Shabbat services, candles should be lit by 7:25 p.m.) The West Minyan is at the home of Bonnie Bloch and Howard Gendelman, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit 8:45 a.m., Free babysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, 10KK) a.m. Mincha, 8:05 p.m., followed by Shalosh Seudot and Ma'arivyHavdalah, 9:15 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 8:10 pan. WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 8:10 p.m. TORAH TOUR Tuesday-Sunday, Aug.13-18: Rabbinic students from Yeshiva University will be in Omaha. Please make your meal reservations by Aug. 12. Call the synagogue office for more information.
Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Services are conducted by Rabbi Mordechai Levin and Cantor Emil Berkovits. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat I Arvit I'shabbat, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: P'sukei D'Zimrah, followed by Shabbat Shacharit, 9:30 a.m.; Seth Kudym, son of Robbi and Gary Kudym, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah; Free sitter service starts at 10 a.m. and runs through the conclusion of services; Kiddush sponsored by Betty Kohnck in honor of her grandson; Saturday Evening: 7:55 p.m., Huniash ClassKnowledge of Hebrew not required; 8:25 p.m., Minha-Ma'ariv and Havdalah. SUNDAY: Shaharit, 9 a.m.; Minha-Ma'ariv, 5:30 p.m. INSTALLATION SATURDAY, AUG. 31, 8:30 p.m.: Installation of Rabbi Levin, followed by a champagne dessert reception.
Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Services, 8:30 a.m.
Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 ajm. FRD3AY: Services, 8 p.m. SATURDAY: Shacharit, 9:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY: Men's Group meets at the Knolls, 12:30 p.m. For more information, call Yale Gotsdiner, 423-7066. TUESDAY, AUG. 20, 6:30 p.m.: Charles and Nancy Coren host a light dinner in honor of their FRIDAY: Services, 7:30 p.m. The topic for dis- son and new daughter-in-law, Josh and Nava cussion is "What is different about Hasidism and Coren. Celebrate Sheva Brachot, the traditional its adherents? Why is Rabbi Schneerson venerat- wedding blessings, with the new couple. RSVP to 423-5695 or ncoren.@lps.org. ed?" Oneg Shabbat following services.
SATURDAY: Services, 9 a.m., led by Andrew Greenberg in the RBJH Chapel, followed by Kiddush. Services officiated by Rabbi Michael Weisser. FRIDAY: Services, 7:45 p.m. ' SATURDAY: Services, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m.-noon. MONDAY: Adult Hebrew Study, 7 p.m. TUESDAY: Hebrew with Rabbi Milder, 7:30 p.m. THURSDAY, 7p.m. Choir practice.
PERSONALS My children and I thank our family and friends for all your expressions of sympathy in the loss of my dear sister, Eppie Lederer. We appreciate ail your cards and contributions to worthy causes which have been a great source of comfort to us all, Helen Brodkey and Family
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Prepares for Project Tzedakah
David Aaron Sukiennik, son of Hyman and Marlene Sukiennik, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 17, at Beth El Synagogue. An eighth-grade superior honor roll student at Kiewit Middle School, he is a member of the Student Council and was selected to be in the Duke Talent Identification Program. He enjoys playing basketball and video games, Camp Sabra and spending time with friends. David played on the 13-14-yeard-old boys' basketball team at the recent JCC Maccabi Games. David has a sister, Brittany. Grandparents are Jack and Ann Belmont of Omaha and Ben Sukiennik and Taisa Simon of Overland Park, KS.
by TANYA SEINA
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Jewish Family Service is dedicated to helping families facing financial hardship through Project Tzedakah. Rosh Hashonah is approaching and JFS and a corps of volunteers, will once again puchase, pack and deliver holiday foods to approximately 50 Jewish families in need. Shabbat candles, non-perishable kosher food tiems, such as canned goods and candies, can be brought to the JFS office until Sept. 3. Packing and delivery will occur on Sept. 4-5. Cash donations are also greatly appreciated and can be sent directly to JFS, 333 So. 132 St., Omaha, Ne 68154. For more information on receiving a holiday food basket from Project Tzedakah or to volunteer, call Connie Kriegler at 330-2024. "We thank the community for its continued support of this important mitzvah program," added Steve Stiel, JFS Executive Director.
I wish to thank all my friends and family for making my 90th birthday so special by remembering me with cards, donations and expressions of their good wishes. Pauline Hoberman
rtelpiDfeserve and coflecttJie history'of our Jewish community JOIN the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society by September 15th and we will give you the rest of this year plus all of 2003 for the same price OR we will include a membership to an outoftown relative or friend of your choice. This wil! make it possible for them to receive our newsletters. We hope that you will take the opportunity to visit our exhibits and permanent displays at the Jewish Community Center. Basic (1 year) - $25.00 Sponsor (1 Year) - $50.00
Patron {1 year) $100.00 Life Member (1 year) $500.00
Nebraska Jewish Historical Society 333 South 132nd Street \ Omaha, NE 68154 S\ 334-6441 or 3346442
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 9, 2002
Tliere But for the Grace of God What will it take to get the world to realize these When news of the bombing at Hebrew University hit the airwaves last week, members of the Jewish fanatics, these terrorists, these murderers want community once again cringed and sat, transfixed, nothing short of the expulsion of the Jews and the watching the carnage unfold on their television destruction of the State of Israel? Will we have to witness another bombing of tall screens. buildings in the United States, or a nuclear power This time five Americans were among the dead. Americans have died before in terrorist attacks on station, or the White House? The dead and injured at Hebrew University could Israel-on buses, in pizzerias, and now, in a univerhave been our sons and daughters. Maria Bennett sity cafeteria. Most of the world doesn't pay attention when was a friend and classmate of Sarah Raful's. The Israelis die like this and we've learned that they daughter of Omahans Larry and Dinah Raful, barely yawn when Americans die alongside their Sarah spent her junior year of college there-with Marla-and they ate lunch in that cafeteria often. Israeli friends and relatives. Maria was 24. She, like so many of the other vicApparently, the world only cares when Americans die from terrorist attacks on American soil. Same tims of Palestinian terror, were young people, looking towards the future, not the past. Now they will goes for the State Department. We wonder what America's response would be if be remembered as forever young, forever smiling, American students studying in Prance or England willingly taking a risk by living in Israel. Are we going to wait until all the young people of were murdered and critically wounded by Arab terrorists? Would there just be a polite call of condo- Israel-Israelis and Americans, Canadians and lence and a terse question to the family asking South Africans, Russians and Ethiopians-are dead about transport of the body? Would President or maimed? What will it take for us, for America, for George W. Bush express anything more than "I'm the world, to wake up? They're all our children. And we must protect angry" and then insist we keep moving the peace them. It's time to wipe out the viper's nest. Now. process forward?
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BEHIND THE HEADLINE Remember the Victims of SheSiacfa's Terrorism, Too by MATT BELLAN —
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WINNIPEG, Manitoba-Shai, a 15 year old from Kedumim, arrived at the Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel a year ago, his left arm nearly severed from his body. Maya, 16, was riddled with nails and shrapnel throughout her body last February, after a suicide bomber hit the pizzeria she and friend Rachel went to on a Saturday evening. Rachel, also 16, emerged from the bombing with her head crushed, and died a week later. Roni, 21/2, was seriously injured in a terrorist attack in Petach Tikvah last month that left her internal organs exposed and mutilated. Those are just four of the young Israeli victims of recent Palestinian suicide bombings. And many were organized by Salah Shehada, commander of Hamas's military wing. Shehada is reported to have been the mastermind behind hundreds of terror attacks against Israelis over the years, and to have been actively planning more attacks. He claimed in a May interview with the website Islam Online that Hamas does not "target children, the elderly and places of worship."
In fact, however, Hamas attacks have killed dozens of children and teenagers, because its bombers have struck cafes, clubs and other places where young people gather. Shehada also oversaw the Passover "massacre" last March in a Netanya hotel, where a suicide bomber killed 29, many of them elderly, and wounded more than 100. It is tragic and regrettable that the Israeli warplane that killed Shehada in a Gaza City apartment July 23 also killed 14 civilians, including nine children. But that terrorist mastermind, who'd been imprisoned by Israel previously, undoubtedly knew Israel's military would be after him. It was he who decided to take cover in a building housing his own wife and children, and other civilians. Nation after nation has condemned Israel, yet again, for seeking to defend itself against terrorism. It would be refreshing indeed, if governments and media critics also remembered Shai, Maya, Rachel, Roni and all the other civilian victims of Shehada's non-stop, murderous plotting.
MattBellan is the Editor ofThe Jewish Post & News, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
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To the Editor: Your editorial ("Welcoming the Stranger" on July 5) was right on the mark. We agree that more should be done to seek out more new Jews in Omaha. Howard M. Kooper Tom Fellman To the Editor I welcomed your editorial of July 5. For many years the concept of recruiting Jews to Omaha has been exciting. This past year, I have been in contact with several national Jewish placement agencies and have been working with the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce to get resumes to employers in Omaha. Placing these individuals and having them involved with the larger Jewish community will (hopefully) be successful. I welcome and invite anyone in the community to contact me if interested in being involved with this venture. Please call me at 330-3014 or call Rabbi Aryeh Blum, Director of the Omaha Center of Torah Learning (OCTL) at 320-8055. Allan M. Gonsher President, OCTL To the Editor: Thanks so much for the excellent article in the July 26 Press and your
PRESS
To t h e Editor: Thank you for such an excellent article you did on my dad, Morrie Shapiro in the June 28 issue of the Jewish Press. It was well written, informative and a wonderful angle to the new Bob Greene book, Once Upon a Town. My father, as many men who fought in World War II, is not really talkative about his service, and seldom goes into detail about the day-to-day life and death struggles he encountered in battle. I'm often amazed at the courage he and so many very young men displayed in the face of death and it was wonderful that he told you about it, and that you chose to honor him with the story. Those of us who have sons the very age of soldiers such as my dad was can't imagine what it would be like to have our children facing comparable perils and possible death. Thank you again. Lisa Lewis
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Fred Tichauer Chairman Carol Katzman Editor The role of the Jewish: Federation of Omaha is to involve Jews in meeting Jewish com- Richard Busse munal needs locally, nationally and in Israel, Centers of Excellence of the Federation are: Creative Director Community Relations, Jewish Community Center, Jewish Educational and Library Allan Handleman Services, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Senior Services. The Jewish Press is a Constitutional Committee of the Jewish Federation of Omaha. Advertising Manager D e a d l i n e f o r c o p y , a d s a n d p h o t o s i s : T h u r s d a y , n o o n , e i g h t d a y s p r i o r t o p u b l i - Ray Pred Nebraska Press: : Account Executive cation... • ... ' . . •;.'.- ' •••.•• ... . ;. ' . .: ' , :..../•' Association The Jewish Press (USPS 275620) is published weekly on Friday for $28 per calendar, Timothy J. Ketelsen year U.S.; $32 foreigtii by the Jewish Federationof Omaha, Phone: 402-334-6448; FAX: 402- Bookkeeper .:334-5422; e-mail editorial material, photos: and: address changes to: ckatzman(§Sew- Jen Gates Production Assistant ishomaha.org; send ads (in .TIP or ,PDF forinat) to: rbuSse€>jewishoinaha.org, : Periodical postage:paid atpmahs./NE, POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The George Schaplro National Newspaper Association Volunteer :'
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wonderful editorial. I appreciate all the coverage you've given the JCC Maccabi Games. Jeff Aizenberg Executive Director Jewish Community Center
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_ JEWISH PRESS COMMITTEE Joanie Jacobson, Vice-Chairinan;' Penny Endelman, Secretary; Steve Simon* Treasurer; Elyce Azriel; Jill Belmont; Jean Duitch; Kip Gordman; ; Bobbi Leibowitz; Howard K Marcus; Scott Meyerson; Linda Saltzinan; Joey Shyken; Melanie Weinstein; Amee Zetzman; George Schapiro (Honorary Committee Member), Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of the Jewish Press . Committee,-the> Jewish-Federation"of Omaha.or the Omaha Jewish Community as a whole; The Jewish Press reserves the right to edit signed letters and articles for space and content. The Jewish Press is not responsible for ;the Kashrut of any product or establishment-
August 9, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE , Page o' It *
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Pulverente MONUMENT CO.
One DayAfter Bombing, Families and Friends Remember the Victims by JOE BERKOFSKY— . NEW YORK, (JTA) - Long before the dreaded call came, Linda and Michael Bennett knew that their daughter Maria was dead. Like many American parents whose children live or study in Israel, the San Diego couple had grown accustomed to the reassuring call that came after each terrorist attack. "Every time a bomb would go off, Maria would call within 10 or 15 minutes because she didn't want them to worry," said Norm Greene, a close friend of the family. On Wednesday, after a bombing in the cafeteria of the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, the call never came. The Bennetts frantically tried to track down their daughter, a 24-year-old who had been doing joint graduate work at Pardes Institute for Jewish Studies and the Hebrew University. "When the phone didn't ring, we all knew," Greene said. Still, the Bennetts and friends desperately hoped that maybe Maria "was injured, in a hospital somewhere," Greene added. They spent an agonizing day frantically searching for information, even e-mailing dental records to Israeli authorities that could help identify Maria. At 10 p.m., with the help of Israeli diplomat Benny Navon and FBI officials, who tracked information through the Israeli police, a call of a different kind came. It was Navon, who called to unofficially confirm Maria's death. "It's the worst nightmare for any parent," Greene said. "Everybody loved Maria, except some S.O.B. with a cell-phone bomb detonator." But the family's painful day wasn't over. At 2 a.m. a State Department official called to ask the Bennetts what arrangements they wanted to make for Maria's body, Greene said. "That's the way they notify us?" he asked. "It's inhumane." State Department officials could not immediately comment on the matter, except to offer their "condolences" for the families of the five Americans and two Israelis killed in the attack. At least 80 people were wounded. When Wednesday began, the Bennetts had been preparing to welcome Maria home. She was planning to take a leave from Pardes to attend a friend's wedding and a bar-mitzvah in the United States, and to spend the High Holidays with her family. Then she planned to return to Israel to complete a two-year program to become a Jewish day school teacher. In an essay she wrote for the San Diego Jewish Press-Heritage and for the Pardes school, Bennett said she was aware of the dangers of living in Jerusalem. But they were outweighed, she said, by the "magical" nature of living there and being able "to assist, however minimally, in Israel's triumph." "She loved living a life of meaning," said David Bernstein, dean of the Pardes Institute, which offers courses in Jewish textual study. "Students here are all aware of the dangers. There are some, like Maria, who make a decision to stay here, and do so out of a love for Israel and a love for Judaism." One Pardes faculty member, Meesh HammerKossoy, said Bennett was an extemely spiritual woman who "was really in touch with the divine." Knowing Bennett, it was "like when you relate to someone and feel they're tremendously in touch with the energies in the world, with your energies,"
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Hammer-Kossoy said. "It's a kind of charisma. It's impossible to imagine they've taken that away from us." Bennett was sharing a table in the popular Frank Sinatra Cafeteria with her friend and Pardes colleague, Benjamin Blutstein, 25, of Susquehanna Township, Pennsylvania. Blutstein, who like Bennett had just extended a two-year stay in Jerusalem for two more years, had been due back in the United States on Thursday to visit his family. His father, Dr. Richard Blutstein, called Benjamin's cell phone early Wednesday hoping to call and discuss travel plans, and left a message. After learning of the attack and failing to hear from his son, Blutstein called friends in Israel to track Ben down. By 4 p.m., the family received official notification of Blutstein's death from the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv. Those close to him described Blutstein as a young man dedicated to learning about Judaism and working as a disc jockey. In Israel, where religious and secular societies are largely separate, Blutstein's ability to merge the two worlds was rare, and left an impact, some said. With his crocheted yarmulke, ritual fringes, earring and open shirt, "it drove the religious people crazy and it drove the secular people crazy," his father said. Pardes officials described Benjamin as a kind of class clown who was also very serious about his studies. He often played bongo drums at Pardes parties, Bernstein recalled, yet "took living according to Jewish law very seriously." The elder Blutstein had visited his son in May. He recalled how an Israeli rap musician asked Benjamin, who played trance and techno music at Jerusalem clubs, to perform at a rave party in Tel Aviv demonstrating against the Israeli presence in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. "His politics wasn't along those lines, but he went," his father said. "He warmed up for an Arab rap group, whom he criticized~not for their politics, but for their music. He was not primarily political. He felt Israel had a right to exist, and that the Arabs had not been acting nice." Like others, Blutstein was aware of the dangers he faced in Jerusalem. In a letter he wrote to his family last Thanksgiving, he wrote that some "might think I'm kind of crazy for being in a dangerous part of the world. Perhaps they are right. But I feel that I'm doing something very important. I am growing and changing. I don't know where this learning is taking me, but I think it's where I should be going." Another victim was Janis Ruth Coulter, 36, assistant director of admissions for overseas students at Hebrew University's Rothberg International School. Coulter arrived in Israel on Tuesday to accompany 19 graduate students about to begin intensive Hebrew language classes. "Janis was extremely committed to Hebrew University and what it stands for," said her friend, Lisa Magnas, a descendant of university founder Judah Magnes and president of the university's American alumni association. Everyone from the_.American Friends of Hebrew University office in New York "goes to Israel once a year; this was her turn," Magnas said. "She was really excited about going. She died for everything she believed in."
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lning Highlights from
w (Contmuea mom page 1) When the athletes were all seated,co-chairwomen of the gamw, Jodi Malashock and Mareha Pitlor thanked the many people who helped to put on the games. They even promised their husbands that after this week they wouldn't even utter the word 'Maccabi!" Before the competition even began, the announced their own state: 916 athletes, 300 coachee, chaperones and delegation heads, 26 JCC staff, 3000 credentials, 300 host families, 400 volunteers, 3000 t-shirts, 19,200 cans of Coca-Cola, 1125 medals to be awarded, 6,398 number of meals served, 30,240 bottles of water, 21,936 snack items, 6072 bottles of PowerAde, and 21,936 pins traded. Some outof-town parents were concerned about their children being housed with "barn yard animals." They were assured by the housing chairmen that the Jewish community of Omaha lived in "normal homes!" Often pleasantly surprised, many of the visitors were overwhelmed by the size and offerings of Omaha's JCC and the friendliness of the community. Following the co-chairs remarks the two screens showed a video of the leaders of Maccabi World Union, Maccabi USA and Maccabi Canada welcoming everyone to the games, while John Lennon's Imagine played in the background. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel gave an opening invocation noting, "How greatly we are blessed. How good is our portion. How pleaaant our lot. How beautiful our heritage." He also introduced a video about the Munich 11, the athletes, coaches and judges of the Israeli Olympic team taken hostage, and subsequently killed by Arab terrorists a t the 1972 Munich games. The video was a compilation of news footage of what happened mixed with comments by the victims' family members. It is a tradition that a t every Maccabi opening ceremony that there be a memorial to these athletes. The next part of the ceremony was the taking of the oaths, first the adult participante oath and then the athletee oath led by Omaha MaccaM teani meinbers Jodi Levine and Eugene Ayol. The grand h a l e of the opening ceremony waa a demonstration by the United keeatyle Stunt Team. A trapezoidal ramp mved aa the focal point on which three bikers and a rollerblader performed 4 various stunte. For the final trick, the rollerblader laid down on the middle of the ramp while one of the bikers did a front somersault over him. W1th that, p y m h h b and streamers burst b m t h e ceiling and the cauldron above the stage waa lit. With much noise and fanf m , the much awaited 2002
P b t o r Mrn top k@ The Paftland l h m malt# an 8atrpnoe at the parade^ of AtbCeter @hobby Stem Rraffh hlm3t Ceddmum hPmthe W&esn aalilee in hael peintr the Ean8tbne mur& Rabbi Aryah Aalel, JCC NleoceM C h m a Codmhu8a Jody lVlalarboalr and Marcia Pitloai Rnnru City ghb Lmrem Beebe, galey W i h w o d a and and JiU h t t ; D m pin a kmdyle biker,cloied the Op4Qine Cemmdef~ Sunday night in h t of a crpwd of mom than 3000 ~~c by Phil Rich. Ccvpl EdaM
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 8
August 9, 2002
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VISIONS Relax in the beauty of the Laurizen Gardens and Botanical Center, Friday, Aug. 23, beginning with a docent-led tour at 10 a.m. Cost is $5 per person. Following the tour, well lunch in the cafe~on your own. Tour the round-the-clock mission support of the U.S. Strategic Comman Center on Wednesday, Sept. 4. Cost is $13, which includes transportation and lunch at the Offutt Club. Send reservations to for either program to: Fred and Sandy Bromley, 13419 Marinda St., Omaha, NE 68144. Make check payable to JSS. Ignite your imagination with Aida at the Lied Center for Performing Arts in Lincoln, Nebraska on Thursday, May 15, 2003. Cost is $60 and includes coachtransportation and theater tickets. Disney's newest is based on Verdi's opera, Aida, is an epic and classic tale. Join Visions with Moostash Joe Tours for a fall get-away to Branson, Oct. 21-24. Cost is $399 double occupancy. Send reservations form with $50 deposit to: Betty Sanford, 9205 Western St. #127, Omaha, NE 68114. Make check payable to Visions. Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday, Aug. 12, at the JCC. Play bingo at 10:15 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise wtih Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, lone Wirthman of the Audobon Society will speak on "It all started with the Birds: the story of the Audobon society." For transportation, call 330-4272. Reminder: Deadline for Tropical Beach Party on Aug. 26 is Aug. 19; deadline for Bluffs Run Casino on Aug. 29 is Aug. 22. Call Maggie Conti, 334-6521, for reservations.
WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet Thursday, Aug. 15, at the JCC. Exercise and bingo begins at 10 a.m. Bring a dairy sack lunch or eat at the JCC at 11:30 a.m. At noon, join Lois Wine, as she takes you back to yesteryear with Remembering When. For transportation, call Maggie Conti, 334-6521. YIDDISH GROUP Lomir Redn Yiddish: Let Us Speak Yiddish conversation group meets Thursday, 1-3 p.m. at he JCC. Ann Margolin has donated Yiddish humor books in memory of her husband, Dr. Milton Margolin. Call Anne Skolkin for information, 343-1638. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Talmud class continues on Monday, Aug. 12, 7 p.m. with Rabbi Aryeh Blum at the Beis Midrash at the OCTL house, 1313 No. 58 St. On Shabbat afternoon, Aug. 17, Rabbi Blum will lead a discussion on the weekly parasha at 7 p.m., also at OCTL house. Torah Tots will begin as a "stay and play for mommies" on Monday, Aug. 26, 9-11 a.m.., at the OCTL house with Shari Blum. Save the date! OCTL initiates a new season of learning on Sunday, Oct. 6, 7 p.m. with a dessert reception and special guest speaker. For more information about OCTL programs or to reserve a time for weekly one-on-one chaurusa-style learning, call Rabbi Blum, at 330-8055. B'NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Dr. Harold Maurer will speak at Breadbreakers, Wednesday, Aug. 14, noon. Dr. Maurer is the Chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community.
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Myrna and Stanley Diamond renewed their wedding vows, under the chuppah, 54 years after they were first married. The ceremony was held in the chapel of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, officiated by Rabbi Myer S. Kripke, right. Holding the chupah are: Sam Edelstein, left, Gary Morrison, Robert Mosenkis and Cathy Carroll, RB JH Activities Director.
PBS Special Evokes Smells, Sounds and Sights of Vanished Shtetl World by TOM TUGEND"
———.
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LOS ANGELES, (JTA) - "In many ways it was a In the end, it is the language itself that binds good world, in many ways it was a hard world," nar- together all other aspects of this lost world. rator Elliott Gould observes in introducing A "Yiddish is the soul of the Jewish people, it speaks Yiddish World Remembered. by itself," says one old-time immigrant to America. It's not easy to evoke a lost era through television "Sometimes I want to talk in English, but it comes footage, but "Yiddish World" largely overcomes the out Yiddish. Even if you don't know the languagedifficulty. you feel it." The one-hour PBS special, which premieres Wednesday, Aug. 14, presents lively interviews with six elderly men and women who remember the shtetls from their childhoods, vintage photos and some newly discovered archival films, including one showing the bloody aftermath of a 1919 pogrom. The picture of shtetl and city life in the Eastern European Pale painted by these survivors tends to be more "good" than "hard," shading into the sentimental in the vignettes of childhood life recalled many decades later. The smells and savor of mama's heavenly cholent, chicken soup, gefilte fish, or even herring and potatoes all but leap off the screen in the ecstatic reminiscences. "Rockefeller wasn't as happy as I was on Friday :.*J nights when we made kiddush," recalls one former shtetl child. The vibrant cultural life of the time and place is Residents of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home perhaps familiar, as are the political and religious and their families, along with board memrivalries among Chasidim, Bundists and Zionists. bers of Jewish Senior Services welcomed Still, it gives one pause to learn that there were no Michael Silverman and his family to Omaha less than 24 competing Yiddish dailies in Poland at last week. Silverman, above, is the new Executive Director of JSS. the turn of the century.
New Director on. Board at JSS
t
August 9, 2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
NICHOLAS BEDIAN FinancialAdvisor
(Continued from page 1) On Sunday, J a n . 3, 2003, Senator Joseph Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, will present a Lectures, Interviews, Panels and Readings Broadcast Live via Satellite from the 92nd Street Y live broadcast from nary demands, absurdity, and satisfaction of the the 92nd Street Y and hard-fought campaign they waged as a team, will be will discuss camincluded in their discussions. paigning and how The programs in the Fall 2002 season of "Live their Jewish identity from the 92nd Street Y" are sponsored by the became a focus in the Charles Simon Center for Adult Life and Learning, public's eye during the Bronfman Center for Jewish Life, and the Tisch Lieberman's candidaCenter for the Arts. cy for Vice-president All live broadcast times will be published at a later in 2002. Their date when tickets go on sale. For more information upcoming book, about the "Live from the 92nd Street Y" program, Ooing to the People, call me at 334-6404. which describes the excitement, honor, extraordi-
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New Year Brings Expanded Youth High-Holiday Programming at BethEl by OZZIE NOGG
— —
When Beth El youth gather at the synagogue this Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, they will enjoy some new activities along with the old favorites. "Beth El has long had significant High Holiday programs for our kids, with a combination of Junior Congregation, learning sessions and activity sessions," said Kathy Schmitt, Beth El Program Director. "We want all the children to have challenging, meaningful experiences as they learn more and more about the holidays each year, connecting ritual with what they know in their own. personal lives." According to Schmitt, Beth El's Early Childhood learning and activity sessions will focus on looking back at the past year. "Even three year-olds understand the concept that during the year they did 'good things' and 'not so good things'-and that other kids did 'good' and 'not so good' things, too. This year we'll involve the little ones in thinking about what they might have done differently. We'll talk about how they would want someone they'd 'wronged' to forgive them and how they need to forgive others. We'll use games, storytelling and crafts to focus on reinforcing these High Holiday concepts." Another new High Holiday Youth program involves the calendar. "A year is more than days, weeks and months," said Schmitt. "We do lots of things during a year, and lots of things happen which perhaps were not in our plans. On the first day of Rosh Hashanah, all the kids who participate in our kindergarten through seventh grade youth program will assemble, decorate, and then take home their own personal Jewish calendars. We hope the kids will use these not only to circle their play dates and birthday parties, but also to record important events that happened in their families and in the world. Then next year, we can look back at this 'diary' and discuss what our kids learned from these events." The first day of Rosh Hashanah will also feature a dramatic presentation produced and performed by Beth El's fourth through eighth graders. "It's sort of a Readers' Theater with a High Holiday plot," said Schmitt. "It will be fun and educational. We'll also provide other constructive activities for kids who are not involved in the presentation." On the second day of Rosh Hashanah, the Beth El
Kathy Schmitt
High Holiday Youth Program for K-7 grade will emphasize sharing and teamwork. Beginning with a learning session, participants will explore what it means for a child to face cancer. Following this session, Beth El youngsters will assemble craft kits that will be given away after the holidays to oncology outpatients at
Children's Hospital. "This project will benefit both our Beth El kids and the kids at Children's," Schmitt explained. "The patients will get something fun to do on days when they're receiving treatment, and our kids will gain experience in giving to people who need things more than we do." On Yom Kippur, Beth El 4-5 graders will share a special learning session with 6-7 graders. The topic of the session is "One Year After 9/11." The discussion will be led by Rhonda Saferstein, who has studied 9/11 extensively as part of her Masters Degree readings in Political Science at UNO. "The High Holidays fall almost a exactly one year after America was attacked," said Schmitt. "It's the perfect time for our pre-teens to discuss how or if our lives have changed, and what we need to know and do going forward." As in past years, much of the success of Beth El's High Holiday Youth Program depends on both adult and teen volunteers. "I urge parent and teens—please give us one hour of your time," Schmitt said. "Just call the Beth El office, 492-8550, and let us know where and when you can help. And I remind eighth graders that your volunteer time will get you credit toward your mitzvah hours. Don't miss this opportunity to start the New Year out in the plus column!" Pre-registration for the High Holiday Youth Program is required, and fgrjas must be received at the synagogue no later than Aug. 16. Phone registration will also be taken through the synagogue office-at 492-8550-or be faxed to: 492-8520.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
August 9, 2002
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(Contineud from page 1) — -» • — — — « » • — reviews and is a longtime supporter of the Library. The library has microfilm copies of the Jewish Press dating back to its beginnings in 1920, but the microfilm could not be accessed at the library. "It was very discouraging to send people to Boys Town or the downtown branch of the Omaha Public Library in order to read the materials," said Harris Finkelstein, Library Director. "Sometimes, telling people that they needed to travel elsewhere to view the materials was enough to discourage them from getting the articles. I am glad those days are over." The microfilm reader is extremely easy to use and the print copy quality is excellent. The purchase was made just in time, according to Finkelstein who added, "the machine has been used just about everyday by the interns researching information for the 100th anniversary of the Jewish Federation." In addition, the Kripke Library has recently purchased more than 50 DVDs which are now available
for checkout, Finkelstein expressed excitement about the new purchases, made possible with gifts from several generous donors. "It is wonderful to watch the library progressing. People have been taking advantage of the library's growing CD collection and I know the DVD collection will be very popular as well," he explained. The DVD collection encompasses a wide spectrum of the Jewish culture and includes documentaries, such as Heritage: Civilization and the Jews, a three DVD set, hosted by Abba Eban. There are movie classics such as Funny Girl, The Great Dictator and Fiddler on the Roof, which now include never before seen, supplemental information. There are also foreign films available, such as the award-winning Kadosh, from Israeli director Amos Gitai, and even a comedy performance from Jackie Mason. The DVDs can be checked out for five days, after which there is a one dollar fine per day.
When you patronize these fine establishments, tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Outreach at Temple Israel Touches Many Lives Press. by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator ———•—••-
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Reform Jewish Outreach, according to the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (UAHC), aims to welcome Jews and non-Jews who are investigating Judaism and to provide education and support for them. Outreach seeks to integrate new Jews-by-choice into the Jewish community; to welcome intermarried couples to take part in synagogue life and encourage them to explore and learn about Judaism; to encourage and support the efforts of interfaith couples to consider raising their children as Jews; to educate and sensitize the Jewish community to be receptive to intermarried couples and new Jews-by-choice; and to encourage people to consider making Jewish choices in their lives through discussion groups, community support, adult education, and Jewish resources. "Outreach offers programming for everyone," explained Lee Needelman who has been co-chairman of Temple Israel's Outreach Committee for three years. Outreach is "a feeling of belonging. A . place to be comfortable," she said. Needelman, who converted to Judaism, said there were a number of interfaith couples nine years ago when she became involved in Outreach. "It was a welcoming place," she said, "and a place to belong. Outreach will always offer an open door and welcome mat to those who are looking to consider involvement in Reform Judaism." Outreach has expanded since 1978 when the late Rabbi Alexander M. Schindler, who was then president of UAHC, called on its Board of Trustees to establish an Outreach program. Today, that programming extends not only to those interested in exploring Judaism; Jews-by-choice; intermarried couples and couples contemplating intermarriage; but also to children and parents of intermarried couples; Jews-by-birth, and congregations setting policy on the role of non-Jews in the synagogue. It's the task of the Outreach Committee to plan and carry out a variety of programs tailored to meet the needs of these groups. In response to that mission, Temple's Outreach Committee planned several events over the past year including a discussion on "There's a Dreidelin My Stocking...a December Dilemma;" "STOP and Smell the Challah," an Outreach Shabbat dinner; "When Cupid Strikes!" an interactive discussion on how Jews and nonJews live and love; "Don't Let Passover Plague You," a mock Seder to help make the experience more meaningful; "Rabbi Azriel - UNPLUGGED," an open question and answer forum; and a Outreach Shabbat Service. In past years, Outreach programs have addressed issues on feeling like an outsider, Jewish views of life after death, non-Jewish extended families, Jewish and Christian stereotypes and misconceptions and what to do about them, and the role of the non-Jew among other subjects. In addition, four times a year, Outreach publishes a newsletter, entitled "Bridges," which is distributed to the entire congregation and occasionally through the Jewish Press. Temple Israel's opening Outreach program for 2002-2003 will be a Havdalah/social event, to kick off its year of activities on Saturday, Aug. 17. New and current Outreach participants are welcome to
attend. Reservations can be made by calling the Temple office at 556-6536. Also this year, for the first time, Temple Israel, through the Outreach Committee, invited the entire Omaha secular community to enroll in a three-session introduction to Jewish spiritual, ethical, and community values called "A Taste of Judaism: Are You Curious?". "We didn't have any idea of how many to expect," said Jill Idelman, who has co-chaired the Outreach Committee with Needelman. There were more than 200 responses, "typical of cities much larger than Omaha," according to Idelman. Rabbi Aryeh Azriel and Rabbi Debbie Stiel separately led two consecutive groups of "A Taste of Judaism," a national program started by UAHC in 1994. Participants included Jews wanting to reconnect with their roots, interfaith couples and their relatives, non-Jews seeking spirituality, non-Jews seeking information about Christianity's roots, and others who were just curious about Judaism. Participant comments ranged from: "I would like to come back for more." "Has been a delightful and intellectual experience." "If more people learned about Judaism what a wonderful world this would be." "It confirmed my respect for Judaism." And simply, "I feel uplifted." Idelman, a Jew-by-choice herself, remembers feeling apprehensive when she first joined Outreach. She wondered how she would fit in. But Outreach "gave you a place to get your foot in the door, to feel comfortable, and to break the ice," she explained. "Outreach and Inreach are inseparately linked," Rabbi Azriel emphasized. "Outreach is not only about intermarriage and the possibilities of conversion. It is also about welcoming individuals and families into the community of Temple Israel without the expectations of converting to Judaism," he said. "The ultimate goal of Outreach is to strengthen Judaism by helping individuals in continually deepening their personal Jewish understanding and commitment," he said. "We want to assist both born Jews, Jews-by-choice, and those curious about Judaism to live an enriched life by offering them the Jewish treasures of a lifelong journey." Rabbi Stiel, Temple's former rabbi, also pointed out that "the Jewish community has changed in the last 50 years. Many born Jews are unfortunately choosing not to affiliate, but thank goodness, many people who were not raised as Jews are joining us. The Outreach aspect of a congregation is essential, because it provides the much needed entree into the religion and the community for those who are considering Judaism or who have married a Jewish spouse," she said. "After centuries of being forced to.be a fairly closed religion," Rabbi Stiel continued, "now we can again welcome 'the stranger in our midst' as our Torah tells us to do, and the Outreach program is one way that we do that." Needelman encourages all members of the congregation to participate in Outreach by attending its programs and events. "And we're always looking for new members to serve on the committee," she added. For her, "It's a committee with a soul."
August 9, 2002 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 11
by CLAUDIA SHERMAN, Temple Israel Communications Coordinator-
Now a resident of the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, Helen (Honey) Kulakofsky grew up at Temple Israel, said her daughter-in-law Shirley Kulakofsky. Helen was confirmed there in 1913 when the Temple was located on Park Avenue. She is now 103 and the matriarch of four living generations of Temple Israel members. Shirley and her husband Arthur, who died in 1995, were also both confirmed at Temple Israel. Others in the family tree who belong to Temple include Mark and Debbie Salomon and their daughters, Lisa and Jillian. Debbie Salomon is Helen's granddaughter and Shirley's niece. Debbie's brother, Gary Katelman and his wife Lorrie recently moved to Omaha and joined the congregation. Their children are Megan and Michael. "I've belonged to Temple all my life," Shirley Kulakofsky acknowledged. Her parents, Lois and Grace Bernstein, were married at Temple in 1913 adding to the branches on this family tree. The Friday, Aug. 23, 5:30 p.m. Shabbat worship service, Temple Israel will honor all senior congregants, 75 years of age and older. "The people whose lives we are celebrating are the pillars of our congregation and in order to guarantee a bright future, we need to acknowledge the glorious past," remarked Temple Israel's Rabbi Aryeh Azriel. Shirley Kulakofsky said she has "many good memories of my years at Temple." Life cycle events-the good ones and the sad ones—remain uppermost in her mind. Marian Bookey, who is 91, has belonged to Temple Israel for about 11 years. She joined the congregation when she moved here from Des Moines, Iowa, where she had been a member, along with her late husband,
Marvin, of the Temple t h e r e s i n c e 1936.
his mail and Arthur, who died this past April, have paying his been members of Temple Israel since bills. Others 1945. Their daughter, Silvia Hoffman, asked for and her husband Larry joined the conrides to gregation in 1962. The Roffmans' Temple or daughters, Susie Norton and her husneeded a band Mike, and Julie Rosenquist and Marian's referral to a her husband Thor are also Temple daughter, clergy mem- members. An d i e ber or to Flourishing with the births of six Ka v i c h Jewish boys in recent years, this family tree and her S e n i o r appears to have a lot of growth in it husband, S e r v i c e s . yet to come. The Nortons have four Larry, as Te m p l e ' s sons: Justin, Seth, and twins, Leo and well as B i k u r Aaron. The Rosenquist youngsters are their chilC h o 1 i m Asher and Eitan. Wedding photo of Silvia and Larry Hoffman, cen- Committee d r e Silvia Roffman recalled that years , . A A ter, Nov. 1,1959 at Temple Israel's chapel; standAmee and . ,,. . ^ » ~ m. * ., A c o n t a c t s ago, her parents were active in a ing: Minnie Greene, left, Dr. Arthur Greene, , who Supper Club at Temple. Now she gets , Debby Greene, Ruth Roffman Shapiro. 7 just a thrill attending adult education have and the Kavich's son, Jeff, help fill out returned home from hospitalization. classes with her mother. But Silvia said the life cycle events—weddings, this four-generation family tree. The Many of them are seniors. Zetzmans have two children: Katelin When the telephone calls were britot milah, consecrations-are her and Rachel. Jeff has two daughters: made to check up on the older congre- favorite memories especially those Chelsea and Allyson. gants, they were also invited to the that "span all the generations" such as A service honoring senior congre- August 23 service, said Fox. At that when her parents attended the brit gants "is marvelous," said Marian, time, some of them volunteered to milah for each of their six great adding that it's not just for four-gen- help other senior members. "The calls grandsons. eration families but everyone who has were informative and time well Among Temple Israel's other fourreached the age of 75. spent," indicated Fox, She added that generation families are those of Rose Shelly Fox, chairman of Temple's anyone who needs assistance is wel- Frankel, Jack Schrager, Lillian Ban, Caring Committee, said "most of the come to call Temple at any time at Chicki Gilinsky, Laura Plattner, David Krantz, and Leo Meyerson. senior congregants are doing great 556-6536. Zweiback pointed out that the and they appreciated phone calls" Debby Greene and her husband, Celebration of Life made by 11 members of the commitService is for the entire tee. Out of 160 phone calls, Caring congregation, "This is Committee members reached 140 an occasion for everyolder members of the congregation. one, regardless of age' "We just wanted to check in and ask if or family relation, to they needed assistance," Fox celebrate the lives of explained. the people who have In January, Rabbi Azriel, Temple shaped Temple Israel Program Director Rosie Zweiback, into the vibrant congreand Fox met with Dr. James Thorson, gation it is today. chairman of gerontology at the Please join us at University of Nebraska at Omaha. Larry and Silvia Roffinan and her parents, Dr. Shabbat services on They discussed ways to meet the Arthur Green and Debby Greene, at britot milah Aug. 23 as we show our needs of senior congregants. of great-grandsons, Leo and Aaron Norton, 2001. appreciation." One gentleman needed help reading
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August 9, 2002
August Programs Honor "Special" Synagogue Members by JEWISH PRESS News Service — —
Two celebrations, a week apart, will honor some "wonderful metabers of our synagogue," commented Bob Evnen, President of Tiferetli Israel Synagogue. On Saturday, Aug. 17, during a kiddish luncheon following morning services, the congregation will honor J e n y and Doty Grant and bid them farewell. After 40 years as members and volunteers, the Grants are moving to Florida. Jerry has served as President and as Treasurer, while Dotty has been involved in synagogue life through its Sisterhood, as well as volunteering for Hadassah. "The Grants have been vital members of our synagogue and community," Evnen added. " Jerry has been invaluable, not only for helping the synagogue manage its financial affairs, but also manifesting a strong and depp commitment in many other ways. Dotty has been a constant advocate for our children in the public
schools, to assure that their religious rights are respected." On Sunday, Aug. 25, 6:30 p.m., the congregation will honor Ruth H. Goldenberg, "a person who exemplifies the highest virtues of Jewish womanhood" at a dinner at the synagogue. The cost is $12 per person and reservations and a check may be sent no later than Aug. 16 to: Gerry Schuchman, 5221 Danbury Ct., LincoM, NE 68152. "Ruth's ubiquitous presence at our synagogue and in our community is a model for us all," Evnen said. "Her work has ranged from setting tables to writing a book about the Eishet Chayalot, the righteous women, of Israel. She has been strongly involved in our congregation and has tirelessly suppoi'ted Israel through her trips, her writing and her lectures." For more information about the two events, call the synagogue office, 4238569.
by JEWISH PRESS News Service — —
The Rev. Dr. Martin Marty, who spoke in Lincoln last spring for Yom HaShoah--Holocaust Remembrance Day, returns to Lincoln on Thursday, Sept, 19, 7:30 p.m. for the Welma Crumley Lecture. Sponsored by the College of Journalism and Mass Communications of the University of Nebraska, Dr. Marty will speak on "Non-reli-
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Rev. Jackson Meets with Victims of Terror from Attack at Hebrew University 1
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