Vol. LXXXII
No, 13
Omaha, NE
24 Kislev, 5763
November 29,2002
SERVING NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA FOR 81 YEARS
Scholar to Piece Together Sephardic History and Achievements by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator-
"I hope to instill pride in our histo- example, she explained that the Kol ry and achievements-from Herod to Nidre chant now used on Yom Kippur Herzl," said Andree Aelion Brooks, a Eve is frequently from the Ashkenazic former contributing columnist and tradition. "But one of the origins of news writer at The New York Times the idea of the Kol Nidre was to forfor 18 years. Also an author and lec- give the sins of the forced converses." turer, Brooks will be a scholar-in-resiOn Friday, Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m., at dence, Dec. 13-15 at Temple Israel. Shabbat Worship Services, Brooks "Putting the Pieces Together: The will talk about "The Conversos: A Survival of Sephardic Jewry after Moral Dilemma." Jews had to decide 1492," is the theme of I ] whether to the Brooks' residency. , r^j, i convert or She is one of three leave Spain scholars this year who in 1492 when are focusing on !K i n g f Temple's year-long Ferdinand study of the history and ;and Queen culture of Sephardic; •Isabella Jews, who trace their \ expelled all ancestors to the Iberian ' ; Jews from Peninsula. \ ^rj.inish terBrooks pointed out > ritory. Was that today's desceni('ii version a dants of Sephardic j j betrayal of • Jews can be difficult to > ' Judaism or .i - _J distinguish from other' „. ,, , Dona Grama Nasi was an mterna- was it preT Jews. bmce the expul- ,. , , , , , , s er n cj • , ,,rtn it. i tional banker woo used her T . , i ..„sion m 1492, they ,.•. , . „ , Jewish life J have ,. , . , „ wealth, power, and influence to . .. lived m manv parts of ,, , „, „„ temporarily J T ,, ,, ", , , save thousands of her fellow Jews . . the world and shared „ ,, , „ ,, T .... in order Uto .. . ^ rroin t h e terrors ot the Inquisition. . , , their customs rior _T . . ,, ,. , „ _ , , „ return later Nasi is the subject of one of Andree . . n T generations. _ i ,i A I T , t o Judaism? Am ° <,, . • , , . , Brooks lectures at Temple Israel. „ ... shouldn't be partitioned. Jewish history It belies the Even rabbis history. You can't put Sephardic histo- recommended conversion. Many who ry in a little box," she added. For left died," Brooks explained. (Continued on page 9) ,!'•
Community Luncheon Presents Author with New Views on Shabbat by DIANE AXLERBAUM-
A fresh look at the nity one day a week to underlying philosophy shut down the phones of weekly Sabbath and and faxes and to reconits potential for levels nect, instead, with famof individual meaningily and friends-and fulness will keynote the ^.', oneself." annual community Following Klagsbrun's luncheon, Wednesday, I remarks, the beauty Dec '• and sanctity of Shabbat J C •will come to life as the Klagsbrun i speaker joins students The Fourth Command- \ &^i !.. I from Friedel Jewish merit: Remember the Academy in an enactFrancine Klagsbrun Sabbath Day, the ment of Shabbat cannewest of her more than a dozen dlelighting. "It's a truly lovely picture books on social and religious issues. each Friday when the girls of Friedel Among her earlier works are Jewish- light the candles to welcome Days, Voices of Wisdom and Married Shabbat," said Nadine Kutner, People: Staying Together in the Age of Library Committee chairman. "I look Divorce. forward to sharing a glimpse of this The new book examines complexi- scene with our Jewish community. ties of the sacred Sabbath and cere- Francine Klagsbrun's experience, monies, laws, and practices that have breadth and depth promise to make marked its celebration throughout the community luncheon richly history. But it goes far beyond that, rewarding. We urge men and women she said. For example, the book raises to come together for a delightful lunch questions about the traditional roles and to hear this important contempoof women on the Sabbath, approaches rary writerVKutner continued, pointkabbalistic ideas about the feminine ing out that Klagsbrun was enthusiand masculine aspects of the astically received when she spoke in Almighty, and reevaluates the oft- Omaha some 10 years ago. interpreted thinking of philosopher A columnist for The Jewish Week Abraham Joshua Heschel. and Moment magazine, Klagsbrun Moreover, it issues a challenge to contributes to such national publicamodern Americans, for the author tions as The New York Times, The sees in Shabbat "a balance to the Boston Globe, Ms and Newsweek. She bonds of boundless labor, an opportu(Continued on Page 2)
The Project Dreidel Chronicles
Pages from the JFS Notebook r
by PAM MONSKY, Federation Communications Director
(Editor's note: The story you are about to read is true, and used with per-1 missioji. The names have \ been changed to respect f individuals' privacy.) i Welcome to the third \ installment of "The 2002 ' Project Dreidel Chronicles." Each person depicted in these stories has graciously agreed to share his or her story with the community to increase public awareness of Jewish Family Service's programs and services that have made such a tremendotis difference in their lives. . Through Project Dreidel, JFS provides Hanukkah gifts and Jewish holiday meals to families in our area who cannot afford them. But sometimes, families and individuals have unexpected emergencies that require immediate intervention. JFS is there to provide the financial and emotional support needed to get back to normal, and that support costs money year round. Your gift to the Jewish Federation's 2003 Centennial Campaign, along with donations to Jewish Family Service tzedakah • fund, is what
allows us to take care of each other. Despite our best efforts, our community's needs continue to outpace the increase in gifts to the Annual Campaign. Your increased campaign gift ensures that every Omaha Jewish community member will have access to professional and compassionate help in a Jewish environment. To find out how you can help make a difference in the lives of others, please contact JFS at 330-2024, or the Jewish Federation at 334-6431.
Tzedakah does not take a holiday at Jewish Family Service. All through the year, the JFS staff provides assistance to Omaha Jews who have nowhere else to turn. Sometimes people just need help one time during an emergency, sometimes they need help for a short period of time and sometimes they require long-term assistance. What is astounding, however, is how many people are helped by Jewish Family Service. What follows is a glimpse at the JFS notebook. You will be
amazed at the variety of people and problems that JFS has dealt with over the past year, and how much it costs to provide assistance. Leo is a young Jewish man with severe mental illness. He is on permanent disability and receives disability income and insurance from Social Security. Leo has to see a psychiatrist monthly to maintain the delicate balance of his medications. His medication allows him to live independently, but his out-of-pocket co-pay for the prescriptions is $66.50 a month. After paying for rent, utilities and food, there is very little left over for the co-pay. JFS has been providing Leo with financial assistance so he doesn't need to worry about how he will pay for his medication. Total cost for one year: $798. Mike and Hannah were looking forward to a better life for their family. After years of working in low-paying jobs, Mike was finally realizing his (Continued on Page 9)
INSIDE: Monthly calendar. Temple 'Adopts'Another School
pages 6-7 page 8
Federation, Synagogues and JCC announce 'Gateway9 Plan...: page 12
Page 2
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
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Happiness
and the Human Condition by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE -
—-
(This column was originally published in the Jewish Press on Nov. 25, 1983.) P a r a s h a t Vayeshev It is one of the hardest of parental tasks to help children understand that not everything in life will be happy. Sometimes it rains when we have looked forward to a picnic. A new sled cannot be used if the snow melts and won't take hold. Much worse are the more serious problems...the death of a dear friend, or sibling, or parent. Or serious family economic problems, while friends in school are telling about a new car, or a new computer game, or a planned vacation. Maturity involves many accomplishments of the spirit and conquest of the emotions. This is one—to know, as James Michener put it once in The Source, "Life is not meant to be happy; it's meant to be life." In the Midrash Kabbah, the ancient rabbis called attention to this datum of the "human condition." They note that when Jacob settled in Canaan, the text continues immediately with the narrative of Joseph. But Jacob's beloved Joseph, lost to him and presumably dead, brought him the deep grief from which there was no recovery. (It is possible that the rabbinic comment was triggered by the opening syllable of the Sidra, Vayeshev. The rabbis may have heard an echo of a cry of Woe!) At this distance, we cannot weigh the distress of Jacob in his lifetime of checkered activity. But the rabbis rehearse it for us, in terms of a verse from Job: "I was not at ease, neither was I quiet, neither had I rest; but trouble came." "I was not at ease," say the rabbis, refers to Jacob's ongoing troubles with Esau. "Neither was I quiet," they say refers to the continuous struggle to maintain serenity and security despite the crafty Laban. "Neither had I rest," refers to Jacob's sorrow over his daughter Dinah. "But trouble came," say the rabbis, refers to what follows in the Book of Genesis--the tragedy of what Jacob believed was the death of Joseph. One of the most poignant verses of the Bible is a pathetic reply of Jacob to Pharaoh. Joseph was discovered to be alive and—how wonderfull-viceroy of Egypt. He brings his father down to live in Egypt. He presents him to Pharaoh and Jacob blesses the Pharaoh. Pharaoh asks how old he is and Jacob replies, "The days of the years of my sojournings are a hundred and thirty years; few and evil have been the days of the years of my life..." The rabbis viewed life soberly and honestly. They knew that it is only a fantasy to expect life to be a level journey of unbroken serenity and happiness. The question we should be asking is not, "How do we find happiness in life?" We should be asking, "How do we find meaning in life?"
JOSEPH SOSHNIK Former Omahan Joseph Soshnik died Nov. 22 in St. Louis. Sendees were held Nov. 24 at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in St. Louis. Soshnik was President of the University of Nebraska, having first served as a professor and then administrator at Creighton University, then as Comptroller and Vice-Chancellor of UNL before becoming President. He earned degrees from Creighton, University of Omaha and the University of Denver, a PhD and honorary degree from UNL. Upon leaving UNL, Soshnik joined the investment banking firm of Kirkpatrick," Pettis, Smith, Polian, Inc, as Vice-president. He was later named executive Vice-president and Chairman of the Executive Board before he retired in 2000. Before moving to St. Louis, Soshnik was active in numerous civic affairs, including the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, the Omaha Industrial foundation, the National Conference on Community and Justice and Boys" Town. He also served on the boards of the Jewish Federation of Omaha and Temple Israel. Soshnik was preceded in death by his son and daughter-in-law, Allan and Barbara Soshnik, who died in the MGM Grand hotel fire in Las Vegas in 1980; grandson, Andrew Soshnik, and granddaughter, Jennifer Soshnik, who was killed several years ago in a tragic accident shortly before she was to be married. He is survived b}r his wife, Miriam; sons and daughters-in-law, David and Marsha, and Robert and Jenny, all of St. Louis; grandchildren: Mindy and Brad Horowitz, Danny, Michael, Leah and Brad Soshnik, and Greg and Laura Soshnik; two great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Harold Saks of Seattle, WA; and sister-in-law, Betty Kelberg. Memorials to Solomon Schechter Day School, Jennifer Soshnik Library Fund, 324 So. Mason Rd, St. Louis, MO 63141. LUCILLE GELENTER Lucille Gelenter died Nov 20 in Long Island, NY, at the age of 87. Services were held in NY. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Steve Bloch of Omaha; son and daughterin-law, Bob and Gayle Gelenter of Long Island; grandchildren Jenny and Scott Meyerson of Omaha, Michael and Melissa Bloch of Reno, NV, and Alyce and Jaclyn Gelenter of New York; and three great-grandsons. Memorials to NCJW or the Alzheimer's Association. FRED E . SILVER Former Omahan Fred Silver died Nov. 24 in Minneapolis at the age of 83. Services were held Nov. 25 at Westside Hebrew Cemetery. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bessie. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Harry Silver and Bethaviva Cohen; grandsons, Ophair and Mendel. Memorials to the Torah Academy, 2800 Joppa Aye., So., St. Louis Park, MN 55416.
Community Luncheon
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(Continued from p a g e 1) •—————' • " served as editor of the best-selling volume Free to Be... You and Me. Her forthcoming appearance is part of the Jewish Book Fair sponsored by the Federation Library in celebration of Jewish Book Month 2002. On Sunday evening, Dec. 15, a second program, free to the community, will feature investigative reporter
Stephen Fried on his controversial non-fiction work, The New Rabbi: A Congregation Searches for its Leader. Cost of the community luncheon is $12. To make a reservation, call 334-6461 or e-mail jewishlibrary^jewishomaha.org.
The War on Terror is Topic at BELLS Luncheon by OZZIE NOGG — — ——— . BELLS-Bcth El Lunch & Learn on Shabbat-the synagogue's popular series-continues on Saturday, Dec. 14, with guest speaker Dr. Terry D. Clark, a professor of political science and director of the graduate program in international relations at Creighton University. "Dr. Clark will speak about The War on Terror From A Holistic Perspective," said Kathy Schmitt, Beth El Program Director. "It's a topic that has scholars, pundits and politicians scratching their heads. But, since Dr. Clark is a specialist in comparative politics, we're looking forward to the theo-
ries he'll offer that might help unravel the riddle of how different nations and cultures can best get along. His talk is sure to be an important one and we invite the community to join us." The BELLS session begins immediately after kiddush and will finish no later than 2 p.m. Lunch costs $8 for adults, $5 for students under 12, and is available by advance reservation only. Free babysitting from 12:45-1:45 p.m. is also available by reservation. Please reserve by Thursday, Dec. 5. For more information, call 492-8550.
November 29, 2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 3
Candlelighting Friday, Nov. 29
,
4:38 p.m.
Hanukah candles should be lit before Shabbat candles.
FRIDAY: Men's CZu&, 11:45 a.m. All male memOffice hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 Office hours are: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; bers of Temple Israel are invited to a weekly infor- a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Services Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shabbat Services are conductmal get together at Spirit World, 7517 Pacific St. conducted by Rabbi Howard Kutner. ed by Rabbi Mordechai Levin, Cantor Emil Join us for some relaxation and great conversation. FRIDAY: Kabbalat Shabbat, 4:45 p.m.; The Berkovits and Ritual Director Gaston Bogomolni. Shabbat evening service, 5:30 p.m., Cantor Wendy West Minyan is at the home of David and Brooke FRIDAY: Come join a joyous, musical Kabbalat Shermet will officiate. She will give the D'var Shrago. Shabbat service, & p.m.. Torah. SATURDAY: Morning Services, 8:45 a.m. Free SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m.; SATURDAY: Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 babysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, Matthew and Thomas LeMaistre, sons of a.m., in the Milder Center. Please join us as we con- 10:30 a.m., A special Hanukah Kiddush is spon- Deanne and John LeMaistre, will celebrate their tinue study of Traditional Prayers, Modern sored by Sisterhood; Mincha, 4:30 p.m., followed B'nai Mitzvah. Kiddush following is hosted by the Commentaries: The Amidah; Morning service, 10:30 by Shalosh Suedot and Ma'ariv; Havdalah, 5:42 boys' grandparents, Phyllis and David Hoffman. a.m. p.m. Hanukah candles should be lit after Rabbi Levin's Torah Class, 4:10 p.m. Everyone is ADULT EDUCATION Havdalah. invited for the informal discussion and snack, folWednesday, Dec. 4: The Jews of Spain: History SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. and 4:40 p.m. lowed by Evening services at 4:40 p.m. Adam and Culture, 6:45-8:15 p.m. with Prof. Guy WEEKDAYS: Services, 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m Krasne, son of Edye and Howard Krasne, will Matalon. MONDAY: Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 pan. become a Bar Mitzvah. Thursday, Dec. 5: Beyond Basic Hebrew, 9:15-10 ALPERSON TO SPEAK AT LUNCH A THOUGHT FOR SHABBAT a.m.; Adult Study with the Clergy, 10-11:30 aan. Saturday, Dec. 7, National leader Joel Alperson. To receive Rabbi Levin's weekly "Thought For Cantor Wendy Shermet will explore our Sephardic will speak during Shabbos lunch about the plight of Shabbat" e-mail message, please send your e-mail music heritage. Israel. He serves on the national board of United address to Exec@bethel-omaha.org. PANCAKE BREAKFAST Jewish Communities. Lunch is $7.50 for adults and HANUKKAH BASH Sunday, Dec. 8: Women of Reform Judaism, $4.50 for children. Reserve by Dec. 3. Sunday, Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m. Congregational Omaha is again sponsoring a pancake breakfast, Hanukkah party with traditional festival food, featuring Jim the Pancake Man, 9-10 a.m. Brin music, dancing and games. For reservations, call gthe whole family before the children go to Kathy Schmitt at 492-8550. Religious School and adults go to the Four B's pro- Member of the;Uiiion tijFAihsrican Hebrew Gongregations WEEKDAY SERVICES: Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 gram. Cost is $4.25 for adults and $3.50 for chil- !P||&lip20|^ p.m.; weekdays at 6:55 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. dren 12 and under for an all you can eat breakfast. RABBI LEVIN'S INTRO TO JUDAISM CLASS Thursdays, noon, call 492-8550 to reserve. BIDS' SNACK AND LEARN FRD3AY: Early Shabbat services will begin at 6 Sunday, Dec. 8, 11:30 a.m.: Crafts and snacks p.m. No Oneg. for kids, ages three and four, and their parents. SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m.; Torah Study, 10:30 a.m. SUNDAY: Hebrew School, 9 a.m.; Religious School, 10 a.m. Join Tif'ereth Israel for the Sunday Services conducted by Rabbi Mendel Katzman. Afternoon Book Club, 3 p.m. Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6: Early service, followed by a SATURDAY: Morning Service, 9:30 a.m., fol- potluck Hanukkah dinner. lowed by Kiddush luncheon. EVENING HONORING RABBI WEISSER FRIDAY: Shabbat in the Home. SUNDAY: Morning Service, 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. 5:30-7:30 p.m.: Save the date! SUNDAY: No Hebrew School. WOMEN OF WORTH MONDAY: Book Club Discussion of "Modern MONDAY: 11:45 a.m.-l p.m., Bringing Heaven Jewish Thinkers" at the Kripke Jewish Federation Down to Earth, ledfayShani Katzman. Lunch will Library, 6:45-8:15 p.m. be served. IMeijfelJplSJJmte TUESDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at TUESDAY: Crown of Creation, 9:30 a.m., the JCC. through Dec. 24, led by Shani Katzman. Friday, Dec. 6: Hanukkah Party, 7 p.m. Bring a ADULT"EDUCATION dessert, your menorah and candles. Community Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M. TUESDAY: Parshas HaShavuah (weekly Torah guests and students welcome for the last night of Rosenbaum. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 portion), 7-8:30 p.m., led by rabbinic student Hanukkah! a.m. Mendel Hecht. FRIDAY: Mincha-Ma'ariv, 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY: Navigating the Talmud, 7-8:30 liiiiiiiillilliilliiwil SATURDAY: Morning service, 9:30 a.m. p.m., led by Rabbi Katzman, at the JCC. SUNDAY, 3 p.m. Sunday Afternoon Book Club Wednesdays, Mommy and MelTorah Tots, 10-11:30 SATURDAY: 9 a.m., services, conducted by a.m., led by Shani Katzman and Shirley Goodman. focuses on a discussion of Silence of Heaven by Marty Shukert, are held in the Herbert Goldsten Join with other moms and kids to rediscover the Amos Oz. Call Jean Cahan, 423-9462. chapel and are open to the community. Men's Group meets every Wednesday, 12;30 excitement of Judaism, Cost is $8 per session. To register for any class, please call Jennifer at p.m. at the Knolls. HANUKKAH LATKE PARTY 330-1800, or e-mail chabadoffice@aol.com. Sunday, Dec. 1, 4 p.m. Bring the whole family Michael Howard Vann, son of Tom Vann and for the taste and smell of this annual treat! Thursday, Dec. 5: Dr. Ilya Fabricant will discuss Leslie Vann, will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 7, a t "Microphysics and the Nature of the Universe." Temple Israel. A seventh grade honorroll student at Westside FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7:30 p.m. Topic will be Middle School, Michael "Jewish Survival in a Hostile World: How and Why" enjoys archery, reading, Oneg will follow. camp and video games, FRD3AY: Services, 7:30 p . m . magic, fencing and spendJFS to Host Family Yachad Event ing time with friends and PERSONALS by JEWISH PRESS News Service — \ family. He was awarded A special thank you to my relatives and friends for the 2002 President's Jewish Family Service will hold a special Yachad their thoughtfulness and best wishes during my Outstanding Academic Excellence Award, as well as Event on Sunday, Dec. 8, noon, at the Jewish recent surgery. Jean Elkon the American Archer Award. Michael is a student Community Center. JFS will honor Linda Novak, council representative at WMS. former Yachad Coordinator, for her 10 years of dedI would like to express my thanks to my dear famFor his mitzvah project he vohmteered at the icated service to the Yachad Group. New Yachad ily, friends and everyone for their cards, flowers, Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. Coordinator, Michelle Pfeifer, will be welcomed. phone calls and good wishes during my recent hosMichael has a sister, Zoe. Yachad will exchange gifts. All Yachad members pitalizaion. I also thank Rabbi Levin, Cantor Grandparents are Judy Vann of Omaha and the and their families are invites, as well as any com- Berkovits and Gaston Bogolmoni for their visits and late Howard Vann, Barbara Jackson, and Steve munity members. Questions and RSVPs can be caring. Helene Tichauer Schwid of Omaha. directed to the JFS office, 330-2024.
$^ÂŁggg$T$^
Page 4
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 29, 2002
Dry Bones
EDITORIAL
Helping G-d Help .Happy Hanukkah! Tonight we light the first of eight candles celebrating the Maccabees' victory over the Greeks, reminding us that the more things change, the more they stay the same! In every generation, our Jewish texts tell us, there arises a tyrant among us, one who tries to destroy the Jewish people (and the ideas we gave to the world: belief in one G-d, a day of rest, humane attitudes toward women, employees and the stranger among us, to name a few). We thought the last century was bad-this one's only a couple of years old and it's showing signs of being.a close second! In Egypt, a 40-part television series has brought back the forgery, The Protocols of Zion." This 19th century Russian "document' purports to show how Jews are conspiring to 'take over the world' through its' 'network' of bankers, gangsters and lawyers. The 'Protocols' are actually being reprinted in an Arabic weekly in New Jersey (see the op-ed below). And most Arab clerics and leaders don't see any-
thing wrong with it! If Jews had this kind of power, would we still be fighting the same battles? The truth is-the only power we have is through G-d. It says so, right in this week's Haftarah: "Not by strength, and not by might, but only by the spirit of the Lord." Of course, we have to help ourselves. It's like the old joke of the man who who was drowning. First a rowboat comes by and he refuses help, saying "G-d will protect me." Then he climbs to the second floor of his house and a helicopter comes by and he refuses again. Finally, he's on the roof of his house, pleading to G-d for help and Gd answers, "Hey, I sent a rowboat and a helicopter. Whaddya waiting for?" What are we waiting for? G-d can't help us unless we do our part—that means being better informed about the issues—and becoming advocates. It means writing letters to the media, our congressional delegation and the president. It may be 2002, but as far as the world's concerned, it's 163 B.C.E. again and Antiochus is still out there!
Publisher Won't Back Dowo on Protocols by AMY SARA CLARK, The Jewish Standard of New Jersey.
PATERSON, NJ-The editor and publisher of the Arabic-language newspaper that has been publishing excerpts from "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion" continued to defend his decision in an editorial this month. In the Nov. 9 issue of the Pater son weekly, Arab Voice editor and publisher Walid Rabah wrote that "there have been many objective studies written about The Protocols' and not all of the authors agree that it is historically false." He added that "some major writers in the Arab nation accept the truth of the book." His words, written in Arabic, were translated for this newspaper by Daniel Pipes, director of the Middle East Forum, who first publicized the paper's printing of the Protocols in his weekly column.That column appeared in the New York Post and the Jerusalem Post. Rabah did not say in his editorial that the book is a forgery, Pipes said. The tabloid is sold for 35# on some newsstands here. It is written entirely in Arabic except for the masthead and a few of the advertisements. Waheed Khalid, president of the Darul Islah Mosque in Teaneck, said that the paper is well read and respected in the Muslim community. According to Shai Goldstein, New Jersey regional director of the AntiDefamation League, the paper has been publishing since 1993 and has a circulation of between 25,000 and 50,000. In August, the Arab Voice first began printing excerpts of the Protocols, a late 19th-century forgery purporting
to record a Jewish conspiracy to take over the world. In the Nov. 9 editorial, Rabah claimed that the newspaper printed the introduction to the Protocols in only one edition and that he never said that it is true. But Pipes said that the Sept. 28 issue ran the 11th and 12th of the 24 protocols—chapters—and Goldstein, New Jersey regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, discovered that the Oct. 12 edition contained the 15th protocol. Historians have long ago dismissed the Protocols as a hoax designed to buttress anti-Semitic hatred. But despite its refutation, the tract has been widely published around the world and was cited by Hitler and many others to justify killing Jews. According to Pipes, there are more translations and editions of the Protocols in Arabic than in any other language. It is still well-read today, and this month Egypt is broadcasting Horseman Without a Horse, a 40-part mini-series based on the book. News of the publication of parts of the Protocols was met with dismay by many leaders of the area's Jewish and Christian communities. "Whether it's Amiri Baraka as poet laureate or this paper in Paterson, it underscores that New Jersey is not immune from the global antiSemitism that has spread from the Arab world to Europe and is also affecting us here," said the ADL's Goldstein. "It's all interconnected." Father Donald T. Sheehan of St. Matthew's Church in Ridgefield, a
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member of the Bergen County why it took so long for the Protocols to Interfaith Brotherhood-Sisterhood come out, but then they concluded its Committee, said that "anything that is publication was delayed because there is "so little in the U.S. that is printed printed to create misinformation, to establish a caricature that is untrue, is that is anti-Jewish." lamentable. What's the point of showKhalid said while he heard one pering it in a time of great tension? Is this son say the Protocols "didn't seem a work of literature? I think not." genuine," most people seemed to The Rev. Dr. Albert T. Rowe of either believe the book was true or Calvary Baptist Church in Paterson wonder if it could be. Khalid said he said, "I think that anyone who would did .not want "to make any comment read the Protocols would know it's a about the authenticity" of the book. lie. And I think that the editor was Asked if there is anti-Semitic sentitotally irresponsible to print a lie. The ment in his community, Khalid replied freedom of the press doesn't give you that there was plenty of anti-Israel senthe right to print lies. It's like shout- timent, but that anti-Semitism and ing fire in a crowded movie house. If anti-Israel sentiment "have been so you print something that you think is confused that you can't draw the line." wrong there should be some kind of It had been hoped that Rabah was punishment. I don't want to get into planning to acknowledge the falsity of this controversy," he added, "but I the Protocols in his Nov. 9 editorial. know a lie when I hear one." But when the column came out, But Waheed Khalid, President of the Jewish leaders were disappointed. Dar-ul Islah Mosque in Teaneck, "It's completely inadequate," said defended Rabah's decision to print the Pipes. "It does not address the issue of excerpts. "It's a paper and they obvi- fabrication. It does not acknowledge ously have the right to print whatever the role that the Protocols have played they feel like," he said, adding that it in anti-Semitism in the 20th century is "what is printed in other maga- and it contains historical factual miszines" that he <;has a problem with." takes." Similarly, Khalid said he has no probGoldstein said, "There appear to be lem with Egypt's airing of the drama- a number of 'qualifiers' in the apology tization of the Protocols. "They have that in essence make it a non-apology. the right to show it and I think it is "The publisher must release every news and it is quite interesting to publication from August through know what it says." November and take a full-page ad in a Khalid added that the Arab Voice variety of Arab and Jewish publicahas a large readership and that the tions acknowledging that what he did publication of the Protocols has been was to publish anti-Semitic/antiread by many in his community. He Zionist lies that have led to the mursaid that initially people wondered der of millions of Jews."
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November 29, 2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, ME
Page 5
Hebron Backgrounder
BEHIND THE HEADLINES by HANNA BANDES GESHELIN
The massacre of 12 Israelis in Hebron on Shabbat raises the important question: what are 450 Jews doing living in a hostile city of 120,000 Arabs? The media would have us believe that they are crazy fanatics who live there deliberately to antagonize the Arabs, who have the right to live in their city without interlopers. In fact, 750+ valiant Jewish residents live in Hebron. A mere half-mile away, several thousand Jews live in the town of Kiryat Arba. People choose to live there for two major reasons. First, they want to be close to some of the oldest and holiest sites of Jewish history. Second, their presence protects Jewish interests in the city. Hebron is the oldest Jewish city in the world, with a continuous Jewish community from the days of Abraham until 1929. The land was- deeded to Abraham, whose purchased from Ephron the Hittite, is recorded in Genesis 23:3-18. All our Patriarchs and three of the four Matriarchs are buried in Hebron's Cave of Machpela, Hebron was King David's capital city, and King David's father Jesse and his ancestress Ruth the Moabitess are buried on a hillside not far from Machpela. Bar Kochba's soldiers fought against Rome in Hebron's hills. The community was enriched in the 16th century by exiles from Spain, who purchased large tracts of land in the city center and built a thriving life in their new Jewish Quarter. Later, many Chabad Hasidim came to the city, adding a strong Ashkenazi element. In 1925 one of the foremost yeshivot (Torah learning academies) from Europe relocated there. In
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spite of this vibrant Jewish presence, during the 700-year Arab occupation, Jews were forbidden access to the Cave of Machpela. Jews were only allowed as far as the seventh step of a staircase outside the tomb. The 4,000 year Jewish presence in Hebron came to a sudden end in 1929 with a brutal Arab massacre. While British soldiers stood by, Arabs tortured, raped and murdered. Men, women and children were hacked with axes and other weapons; 67 died and many more were injured. Three days later the British forced the surviving Jews onto buses and took them to Jerusalem, compelling them to abandon their homes and belongings for the Arabs. Many of the Jews returned in 1931, but in 1936 the British again forced them to leave. Between then and 1967, virtually every Jewish building and holy site in Hebron was destroyed. After 1948 the Jordanians leveled the Jewish Quarter. The "Arab market," often shown on television as a backdrop for reports about how the Jewish presence antagonizes the Arabs, was built on that spot. During the Six Day War the Arabs of Hebron surrendered to the Israelis without a shot being fired. After the war, Israel did a census which showed 38,203 Muslim and 106 Christian inhabitants. Soon Jews began to return to the city and reconnect with this important site of Jewish history. In deference to the Arab majority, the Israeli government has prohibited Jews from buying land and from building on land they already own. This has kept the Jewish population artificially low. The Arabs, however, have had no such limitations,
and they have built up the city's population dramatically. But few of Hebron's present Arab residents have any historical connection to the city. In spite of the danger, Hebron is a major site for Jewish pilgrims. Only a few weeks ago, 20,000 Israelis spent Shabbat in Hebron. The occasion was the reading of "Chaya Sarah," the Torah portion dealing with the death of the mother of the Jewish people and the purchase of the Cave of Machpela as her tomb. On this day Jews can pray in parts of Machpela which are usually open only to Muslims. In the late 1990s, under the Oslo Accords, control of Hebron was returned to the Palestinians. Attacks on the Jews have never ceased, however, and during the"summer the Israeli army retook control of the city. Two weeks ago, after receiving assurances by the Palestinian Authority of the safety of Hebron's Jews, the army withdrew. Last Shabbat's carnage was the result. It's easy to say that the Jews of Hebron are fomenting trouble and should leave. However, the facts show that they have every right to be in Hebron, and that without their presence the secondholiest Jewish site in the world would be off-limits to Jews. The Arabs have no right to take a Jewish city and make it Judenrein (free of Jews) simply because they want to. Hanna Bandes Geshelin is a writer, storyteller and teacher now living in Worcester, MA. The granddaughter of one of the original members of Hadassah, she lived in Israel in 1968 and 1969 and has visited there often. She can be reached at: info@geshelin.com.
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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 6
November 29, 2002
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FREDA?, NOVEMBER 29 CDC CLOSED ALL DAY Jewish Women International Children's Home in Israel program, noon. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Hanukkah Run, 9 a.m. Super Sunday Committee Meeting, 10:30 a.m. Visions 10th Birthday Party, 12 p.m. BBYO WRC Steering Meeting, 1 p.m. Chabad Hanukkah on Wheels, 4 p.m.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 YES Program, 10 a.m. Sisterhood Board Meeting, 10 a.m. at Beth Israel Florence Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. Beyt Shalom Adult Education Class with Rabbi Kripke, 6:30 p.m. Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 BBYO Night, 6 p.m. Israel/Overseas Committee Meeting, 6 p.m. NCJW Benchmark Speaker Sara Weddington, 7 p.m. Friedel Jewish Academy Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4 Youth Department Hannukah Party, 5 p.m. Federation Planning & Evaluation Meeting, 7 p.m. Chabad House Adult Education Class, 7 p.m. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. NCJW Board Meeting, 7 p.m. Maccabi Parent/Athlete Meeting, 7 p.m.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 Visions Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m. CDC Family Hanukkah Program, 11 a.m. at the CDC Shabbat Hanukkah Dinner, 7 p.m.at Beth El
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WEDNESDA Mah Jongg Club, 11:30 a. Kripke Library Book Fair Francis Klagsbrun, 12 ] Federation/Synagogue Pr( 12 p.m. Edward Zorinsky B'nai B' 6 p.m. Jews of Spain Class, 6:30 Chabad House Adult Edui Board of Commissioners I at Beth Israel
THURSDA5 Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m. Women of Worth Chodesh at Chabad House Yiddish Group, 1 p.m. Akko Youth Ensemble, 7 ] FRIDAY,] Beth Israel Shabbos Com Location: tba Scholar in Residence And at Temple Israel SATURDAY Scholar in Residence And at Temple Israel Lunch and Learn on Shal at Beth El For Your Dining Pleasure
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 Super Sunday Committee Meeting, 10:30 a.m. Kids' Snack and Learn,11:30 a.m. at Beth El Yachad Gathering, 12 p.m. Bellevue Artists Association Reception, 2 p.m.
SUNDAY, Scholar in Residence And at Temple Israel Hadassah Post Hanukkal Kripke Library Keynote I
This calendar does not include alL community events.
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TUESDAY, Federation Women's Cam) Home of Andi Willensky, 1 Visions Western Heritage BBYO Night, 6 p.m.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 Shabbat Lunch with Joel Alperson, 12 p.m. at Beth Israel Melavah Malkah 7th & 8th Grades, 4:30 p.m. at Beth El Family Night, 8 p.m. at the OCTL House
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 Hadassah Board Meeting, 10 a.m. Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Kutner at Noddle Development, 12 p.m. Jewish Educational & Library Services Board Meeting, 12 p.m. Chabad House Adult Education Class, 7 p.m.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 OCTL Shabbat Dinner, 6 p.m. at the OCTL House f, DECEMBER 12 MONDAY, DECEMBER 23 YES Program, 10 a.m. Food-Glorious Food JELS Program for Mommies & Bads, 10 a.m. Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m. at Beth Israel
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Jewish Press. Omaha, NE
November 29, 2002
Temple Israel Adopts a Second School by CLAUDIA SHERMAN Temple Israel Communications Coordinator.
Last year. Temple Israel's Social Justice Committee launched a new Mitzvah Project by "adopting" Lothrop Magnet Center, an Omaha Public School (OPS? for pre-kindergartners through fourth graders. "It was very much a success," emphasized Gina Fitzpatriek, the magnet coordinator/instructional facilitator at the school who is a member of the committee implementing the project. Fitzpatriek taught second grade at Lothrop last year and saw many of the children reach their goals. The project, Reach for Success, "helped the students raise their grades and achieve attendance goals," according to Fitzpatriek. Funding was provided for the school to purchase incentives, including popcorn and pizza parties, encouraging the children to meet their goals. This year, the school intends to record specific data on the children's Robert Voelte instructs his kindergartners at Castelar School, one of success in reaching reading, math, two schools Temple Israel has "adopted" as part of a Social Justice and good citizenship objectives. Goal project. conferences with their parents are "This project has been absolutely "Susie is a dynamo," said Rabbi planned. The school would also like to worthwhile," the principal added. "It Aryeh Azriel. He credited her with do some "special science projects," was fabulous knowing the community creating the connection between Fitzpatriek said. is part of our support system." Temple and the schools. Becky Nichol, principal of Lothrop, Lothrop students agreed. "Thank you Susie's mother, Roz Friedman, also a mentioned that volunteers who are for buying us prizes. It helps me work Temple member, said the contribution wijling to talk about their careers hard at school. Thanks for caring about from her family's foundation "will give especially in the areas of technology, us!" wrote one of the children. these children a chance. If they learn science, and mathematics, and in Funding for the incentives came to accomplish and achieve a goal at Spanish-related fields are encouraged from a donation by the Ike and Roz their young age, hopefully, it will folto share that information with the Friedman Family Foundation, said low through to adulthood." students. "And we're always looking Susie Cohn, a member of Temple who Shari Hess, who oversaw the profor people to listen to the children has spearheaded the school adoption gram at Lothrop last year, is now an read," she said. project. instructional facilitator at Castelar
Academy, an OPS school in south Omaha. This year, Temple is also "adopting" Castelar where "we will emphasize academics and attendance," said Hess, a member of Temple Israel. In addition, Castelar students are in need of hats, coats, socks, and shoes. Canned food goods are also needed. "Our parents are hard working but most of them are low income," said Robert Acamo, principal. The school's large Hispanic population has the highest percentage of ESL (English-as-a-second-language) students in OPS. "Each child will have a quarterly academic and attendance goal and a goal sheet to take home for their parents' signatures," Hess explained. Castelar could use volunteers to work one-on-one with gifted students as well as read stories to children. Individuals who are interested in helping can call the Temple office at 556-6536 to volunteer. "Most of our parents don't have the resources to raise a lot of money," Principal Acamo said. Castelar is in need of someone "to adopt" it to fulfill PTA functions. "Temple can help fill the gap," he added. "We truly feel that we are blessed that Temple has decided to include us in their Social Justice Project. Our parents are very appreciative." Donated clothes and non-perishable food can be dropped off at Temple Israel's south entrance.
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The importance of Setting Goals by TANYA SEINA, MSW, PLMHP-
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goals, it is important to prioritize them so you have a clear sense of direction and a specific starting point. It is fine to work toward several goals at any given time, but one must use caution to not pursue too many goals at once. Doing this may dilute your focus and energy or overwhelm you. After you have decided which goals are most important to pursue first, they should be broken down into increments of what you want to achieve in 25 years, in five years, in one year, in six months, in one month; culminating in a daily to-do list. Thus, each day one should prepare a list of what tasks need to be completed before that day's end that support the achievement of the final goal. Remember to leave some room to be human. Your daity to-do list should include ample time for rest and selfcare as an integral part of pursuing goals. Don't forget to re-evaluate your goals regularly, as life circumstances and priorities often change. Setting goals is like taking a road trip. The goal is your destination and you follow directions to get you there efficiently. It is helpful to have clear and precise directions to prevent one from getting lost or driving around in circles, wasting valuable time. Goal setting is a relatively easy thing to do that produces bountiful returns in life.
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Does it seem like time is constantly getting away from : you and you spin your wheels without getting much accorn. plished? Setting goals is often helpful in regaining a sense of control over one's life. Pursuing our goals helps us maintain daily motivation and an optimistic outlook toward the future. Research has shown that individuals who are competent in setting goals enjoy more confidence, satisfaction, concentration and happiness in addition to being less stressed and anxious. One can achieve optimal results from setting goals if a few helpful techniques are followed. A good place to start is to decide on the goals you want to achieve in all areas of your life. Goal setting experts suggest areas that include career, education, attitude, family, financial, physical, and social. However, additional categories that are not so obvious include artistic, pleasure, public service and religious/spiritual. When writing out goals, remember to make them specific, measurable arid give them deadlines. They should also be stated in the positive, rather < •; than the negative. J Once you have settled on your life :
November 29, 2002
SepharcIIc History
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 9
Israel ® Buy Made in Israel
(Continued from page 1) .^,m-,,.,,. On Saturday morning, Dec. 14, 9 a.m., Brooks will join the Bagels and Sacred Books group when they meet in the Milder Center at Temple to discuss "Jewish Contributions to the Renaissance: An Untold Story." Worship Services will follow in the Livingston Chapel at 10:30 a.m. Brooks' final scholar-in-residency event will begin at a bagel brunch on Sunday, Dec. 15, 10:30 a.m. in the Milder Center. She will discuss "The Woman Who Defied Kings: the Story of Dona Gracia Nasi." Brooks discovered the 16th century Sephardic woman when compiling "Out of Spain," a course of study for children on Sephardic history and culture. Dona Gracia Nasi was an international banker who used her wealth, power, and influence to save thousands of her fellow Jews from the terrors of the Inquisition. She also attempted to start the modern state of Israel as a possible place of resettlement. "She developed an escape network by using spice ships between Lisbon and Antwerp to transport Jews to the Ottoman Empire where they could live as Jews," according to Brooks.
While researching Nasi's life. Brooks said she "stumbled over a woman whose actions, agonies, and setbacks were surprisingly modem. (Nasi.? had learned to deal in a man's world, challenging rabbis, kings, princes, • and popes." She may have been among '"the most celebrated" women operating independently in the commercial world, "but she was hardly the only one," Brooks added. Brooks prefers to emphasize the "extraordinarily uplifting achievements that we fail to honor. Surely, it is time we did seek out more stories of achievement rather than dwell, as many Jews are accustomed to do, upon our trials and tribulations. Our ongoing troubles are important, yes;" she wrote in an article in the Forward in June 2002, "but they should not take precedence over our lay heroes and heroines whose triumphs in centuries past—often in the face of horrendous odds....should make us equally proud to be Jews." Sponsored by the Hermene Zweiback Center for Lifelong Jewish Learning, the scholar-in-residence events are open to the entire community.
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The Project Dreiclei Chronicles (Continued from page 1) ————— dream of a college education so that he could better support Hannah and their eight-year-old son. Hannah worked as a cashier at a local grocery store while Mike worked part time and attended school full time. The family was just able to make ends meet when an unexpected pregnancy put everything into a tailspin. Mike and Hannah were apprehensive about asking for help and waited until Hannah was eight months pregnant before they called JFS. They had no extra money to buy clothes, diapers, a car seat, baby furniture or anything else a new baby needs. They knew once Mike started his new job, they would be fine, but until then, they could not stretch their budget any further. JFS Director Steve Stiel asked an employee of the Federation if they knew of anyone who had baby items to donate to the couple. The staff organized a baby drive and donations from employees and community poured in. Someone even donated a bike for Mike and Hannah's son. Mike and Hannah were overwhelmed, and were able to welcome their new baby without extra stress. The couple told Steve they look forward to the day when they can give back to JFS. Families in financial crisis often prioritize their monthly bills, paying for food and rent first, then finding there is not enough left over for utilities. JFS helped nine families pay for then" utilities over the past year.
Melanie's family was one of those helped. She's a single mother with two children who contacted JFS after her electricity was shut off. With no electricity or hot water, the family was forced to heat water on their gas stove and haul it upstairs to the bathtub so they could bathe. Not only was there no hot water, they were without a refrigerator and lights. Melanie had tried to resolve the problem herself, but was unable to pay the outstanding bills to have service restored. JFS therapists also discovered there was not enough food in the house and provided the family with grocery certificates. Sadly, it is very common for those seeking help not to mention their lack of food. They are embarrassed by their situation and try to maintain their pride by minimizing their hardship. In all nine cases, JFS paid to have the utilities restored and helped the clients sign up for level payment plans with the utility company. Those families that needed food were provided with groceries or certificates. Total cost: utilities: $1,312.42; groceries $350. These are just three examples of the people and situations J F S encounters on a regular basis throughout the year. Clearly, the Omaha Jewish community is not immune to hardship. But it is gratifying to know our contributions can make life a little easier for those who are experiencing financial setbacks, illness or any other crisis.
Advocacy Event Attempts to Motivate Community by CAROL KATZMAN, Editor —
When groups like the Anti-Defamation League and AIPAC, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, co-sponsor an event, attendees are likely to get a powerful education, especially on what's happening in the Middle East. Last week was no exception. The two groups brought Dr. Jonathan Adelman, professor of international relations at Denver University, who spoke to about 50 people. "Looking at Jewish history," Dr. Adelman said, "one could be depressed...but there are two signs of hope: Israel has become a first-world state, has a world-class military and Silicon Wadi. Secondly, how long can the Middle East be the only place in the world where there's no interest in freedom and where democracy has not taken hold, where women still don't vote, where the majority of the population
is uneducated and illiterate, and where religious fundamentalists rule? It can't last forever." Dr. Adelman explained the delicate position Israel now finds itself, between America's wish for the state to stay out of the possible conflict with Iraq and Israel's need to protect itself against Dr. Jonathan missiles that take only six Adelman minutes to get from Baghdad to Tel Aviv. He urged the crowd to use their education to become advocates for Israel in the media, with policy makers and members of the community.
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Page 10
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 29, 2002
Community Mikvah
THE HISTORY FOOTPRINT
The Hanykicati Menorah Stiii Flickers In Council Bluffs—Part i by OLIVER B. POLLAK-
William E. Ramsey and Betty Dineen Shrier ha%Te produced Silent Hills Speak: A History of Council Bluffs, Iowa, a lush seven-pound, seven-ounce, lavishly illustrated 560page book about Council Bluffs. Selling for $34,95, it has been subsidised by the Iowa West Foundation, a fine example of the non-profit fruits of gaming industry. Harold Sapirin, a Council Bluffs resident and member of B'nai Israel, brought to the attention of the Jewish Press the Jewish components of this volume. What follows borrows freely from the work of Ramsey and Shrier, with the gracious permission of Bill Ramsey, who states that proceeds from the book go to the Council Bluffs Library Foundation. According to Ramsey and Shrier, Jewish pioneers, with German and Bohemian backgrounds, arriving in the 1850s, included Sol Bloom, A.B. Newman, Henry Eisman, H. Mosler, F. Friedman, Simon Eisman, F. Hershberg, A. Goldstein and L. Harris. In 1881 25 charter members, led by M. Drohlich and Abraham M. Marks, formed Congregation Bikor Cholim. Of course a cemetery was purchased with separate sections for Reform and "traditional Jewish groups." The authors have Temple Emanuel disbanding in the late 1800s, being succeeded by Chevra B'nai Yisroel, incorporated in 1903 by Isaac
Gilinsky, George Whitebook, M. Frieden, M. Solomon, B. Gilinsky, Samuel Snyder, E. Pill and M. Marcus. How many synagogues and temples did Council Bluffs have? Did they have Reform and Orthodox houses of worship? Silent Hills Speak should not be faulted for not being definitive on these questions. These confusions in Jewish spiritual organization await a future researcher's illumination. Chevra B'nai Yisroel, built in 1904 at 618 Mynster Street, appears to be a frame structure. Devastated by fire, it was rebuilt in brick and dedicated in 1931 by Omaha's Orthodox Rabbi Henry Grodzinsky. Simon Shyken served as congregation president until 1947. In that year the Cohen family, owners of Iowa Clothes Shop on Broadway, furnished the B'nai B'rith Lodge Room of the synagogue hi memory of their son Lt. Irving Cohen, a B-17 bomber pilot killed in November 1944 on his 15th mission over Germany. The lodge room in the basement is now used as a chapel for Friday night services. Rabbis serving the congregation, which changed its name to B'nai Israel in 1953, included Louis Leifer, A. Wachsmann and David Korb. (Thank you again, Harold, a strong supporter of B'nai Israel, for bringing this very new book to our attention. Part II will appear next week. Oliver B. Pallak, OBPOMNI@aol.com.)
by PAM MONSKY Federation Communications Director —
Walk into the newly redecorated community mikvah, and the word that comes to mind is "serenity." Last year, the Jewish Federation Board of Directors voted to enhance the aesthetics of the mikvah, the ritual bath located in the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. While it was always halachically correct, it wasn't a very pretty place. Suzanne Singer was asked by the board to oversee the project. At the beginning, Singer admitted she knew very little about the mikvah, so she did some research and talked to many different people about the project. "We knew we wanted to create a setting that complemented the spiritual experience of the mikvah" said Singer. By exploring some leads, she found James Bond, a local artist who specializes in creative paint effects on walls. Bond was able to produce the serenity Singer had in mind by creating a night sky on the ceiling and making the walls look like Jerusalem stone. In addition to Bond's artistry, a new vanity was installed in the bathroom; there are new tiles on the floor and improved lighting throughout the mikvah. Rabbi Howard Kutner of Beth Israel Synagogue explained the importance of the mikvah to the Jewish community. "Throughout the centuries, wherever Jews lived a mikvah has been an integral institution in Jewish life," he said. "In many ways, building a mik-
vah takes precedence over the building of a synagogue. The observance of the laws of mikvah are known as taharat hamishpachah, family purity. '"Immersion in the mikvah represents renewal and rebirth, and is at the core of Jewish family life. Historically, mikvah was observed even when it was quite difficult and involved great selfsacrifice. Today, as more and more Jews observe the mitzvah of mikvah, there are beautiful, modern mikvaot in just about every city in the United States and throughout the world," he explained. "The Jewish community of Omaha thanks the Federation for renovating our mikvah, making it more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing to its users. I encourage you to see it and to learn more about this cornerstone of Jewish life." Rabbi Aryeh Azriel of Temple Israel said, "The mikvah needs to be viewed as having additional meaning, such as for conversions. I have also taken people to the mikvah who have gone through chemotherapy or other traumas. The immersion in the mikvah allows people to leave their fears and challenges behind and emerge with renewed courage and strength. The mikvah is a great part of our Jewish community." The mikvah is open to the entire Jewish community, but an appointment is required. For more information, please contact Marlene Hert at the Federation office at 334-6437.
In celebration of the Jewish Feclemtia i qfOmalTa's 1 OOthAnniversary, we are taking a look back at major international, national and local events fn Jewish history. Each column will feature importeutf. Jewish events tfiat occurred in tlie corresponding week during the last 1.00 years.
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December 1, 1909 Degania is the first kibbutz founded in Eretz Israel. December 9, 1969 The United States Secretary of State announces the "American Plan for Peace in the Middle East." December 1, 1973 David Ben-Gurion, the first Prime Minister of Israel, dies at his home at the age of 87.
November 30, 1984 Shoshanna Cardin is elected the first woman President of the Council of Jewish Federations at its annual meeting in Toronto, Canada. December 4, 1998 birthright Israel, a $300 million initiative to bring young Jewish adults to Israel, is announced at CJF's first General Assembly held in Israel on the occasion of Israel's 50th.
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November 29, 2002
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
Page 11
iVr •
OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Time for Talmud is with Rabbi Aryeh Blum Monday, Dec, 2, 7 p.m.; learn at the Beis Midrash, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., all at the OCTLhouse, 1313 No. 58 St. Lunch 'n Learn resumes on Wednesday, Dec. 4, noon, at the Kripke Library. Upcoming events: Saturday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m., OCTL will host a "Family Night" featuring music, games, and delicious food. There is no charge for this event, which is open to the entire community. The next OCTL Community Shabbat dinner is Friday, Dec. 20, 6 p.m. Cost is $15 for adults and $7.50 for children under age 10 (there is no charge for toddlers). For information, call Rabbi Blum, 320-8055. B'NAI B'RITH BREADBREAKERS Mayor Mike Fahey will speak Wednesday, Dec. 4, noon, at the Regency Park Inn, according to Chairman Madeline Aufseeser. Fahey will discuss current issues for the city of Omaha. Cost is $9 for lunch; $2 for beverage service only. The program is open to the community. WALK-EM, DROP-IN
For those members gong on the day trip to the Durham Western Heritage Museum to see "Inside the White House: History in Miniatures," please meet at the JCC by 9:45 a.m. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH The Yiddish Conversation Group will meet on Thursday, 1-3 p.m. at the JCC. Call Anne Skolkin for information at 343-1638.
Y.E.S. Members will meet Monday at the JCC. Play bingo at 10 a.m. with Eileen Remer or exercise with Stacey Paskert at 10:30 a.m. Bring articles to share for "YES Talk" at 11 a.m. Following lunch at noon, celebrate the Festival of Lights at the Annual • Hanukkah Party with entertainment bj' the Felling Good Duo. For transportation call DeeDee at 3304272. For reservations for day trips to: Mormon Trail Museum to see the Gingerbread Village on Dec. 12; Bluffs Run Casino on Dec. 19, call Maggie Conti at 334-6521. VISIONS Reminders: Visions 10th Birthday Celebration is Sunday, Dec. 1, noon. Visions board meeting is Dec. 13 (notice date change) at 9:30 a.m. in the conference room of the Blurnkm Home. Join us for an escorted tour of "The American Presidency: Inside the White House: History in Miniature," on' Tuesday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m. at the Durham Western Heritage Museum. Cost is $3.50 per person. Following the tour, lunch is on your own at Piccolo Pete's Restaurant. Deadline is Dec. 2. Make check payable to Jewish Senior Services. Send reservations to: Fred and Sandy Bromley, 13419 Marinda St., Omaha, NE 68144. LIVINGSTON PLAZA Jewish Senior Services will sponsor a Hanukkah Tea in the social room at the Livingston Plaza, Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2:30 p.m. Come for the holiday treats and cheer! Derek Ventura, One Man Band, will entertain.
HHHHHH The Schemmer Associates Inc., an employee Millard West, earning him a letter. His sister, Hannah Wolf was inducted into the National Honor owned company providing Society at Millard West, along with Janet Baack. architectural and engineering services, announces Brittany Sukiennik, daughter of Marlene and F r a n k W. Comisar, AIA, Hyman Sukiennik, participated in the National will become President, of the Youth Leadership Forum on Law in Washington, firm, and Roger J. Wozny, DC. She was selected among 350 high school stuP.E., will become Chairman dents demonstrating academic achievement and an Feb. 1, 2003. interest in law and justice. She is a junior at Comisar is currently Millard North. Operations Vice-president of the Omaha office. He joined the firm in 1986 and has served as manager of architecture, project manager, and manager of information technology. Comisar is a shareholder Stu and Michelle Kazor announce the Sept. 23 and elected member of The Schemmer Associates birth of their daughter, Elizabeth Zoe. board. He is a registered architect in 10 states and She has a sister, Emily Hannah, 3. is certified by the National Council of Architectural Grandparents are Louie and Renee Kazor and Bill Registration Boards (NCARB). Comisar is also a and Peggy Kolm, all of Omaha. member of the American Institute of Architects. Great-grandmothers are Mollie Franklin of Omaha, Mildred Kolm of Schuyler, NE, Alice Alex Wolf, son of Nancy and Phil Wolf, was the only Krapiszeski of Panama, IA, and the late Rose freshrnan to play at the Varsity level in Tennis at Kazor.
BIRTH
Firefighters are Friends by DIANF AXLER BAUM-—-—
Friedel students learn about the community and world through a Jewish lens, thanks to a curriculum of scope and sequence integrated with Judaic studies. One example is the new "Community Helpers Series," which introduces students to a range of individuals whose work makes the community a better place (the basic Jewish value of Tikkun Olam.) Above, an Omaha firefight-
—
er wearing his helmet and mask presents the basics of fire safety to a group of younger Academy students, from left, Max Polack, Robert Levitan, Samantha Truesdall, Eliyahu Kutner, Alena Senik, Lilly Phillips Uriah Wertheim, Isaac RogersMarcovitz, Eva Phillips, J e s s e Reno, Seth Fox, Cleo RogersMarcovitz, Yecbiel Kutner, Jenna Gerber and Mikhail Popkov.
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Page 12
Jewish Press, Omaha, NE
November 29, 2002
New Gateway P r o g r a m Opens Door t o Synagogues and JCC by PAM MONSKY, FEderation Communications Director..
A new joint program between the Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Federation of Omaha and area synagogues offers a unique way for young adults to become involved in the Omaha Jewish community. "Gateway" offers a dual membership to the JCC and a synagogue of choice for one special membership fee. The program is offered to young adults ages 19-30 who are not members of the JCC or a synagogue. "Gateway" came about through the Newcomers committee of the Federation. Committee Chairman, George Aufseeser explained, "The Newcomers Committee has been discussing ways to make it easier for young adults and families to become involved with the JCC and local congregations. "We found that some Jewish communities in other cities have implemented joint JCC-synagogue membership programs with great success. We believe Omaha's "Gateway" program will be just as successful and a
great benefit to the community." The program fee for the first year is $300 for a single adult or $450 for a couple or family. The second year fee is $400 for a single adult or $600 for a couple or family. Some of the benefits and activities of the "Gateway" program include affordable JCC and synagogue memberships, use of the JCC facilities, member rates on all JCC classes, Jewish holiday programming, Judaic and social programs for young adults and families and community service opportunities. In addition to Aufseeser, members of the Newcomers committee include: Beth Cohen, Larry DeBruin, Esther Hellman, Julia Kinarsky, Bobbi Leibowitz, Rabbi Craig Marantz, Janie Murow, Marty Ricks, Lynne Saltzman, Lisa Shkolnick, Mike Silverman, J.D. Slosberg and Rosie Zweiback. For more information about the "Gateway" program, please contact Lisa Shkolnick, JCC Assistant Director, at 334-6425.
Effort Launched to Create Network Russian Emigre on National Level
of
by SHARON SAMBER
WASHINGTON (JTA)-More than a half-million immigrants and refugees from the former Soviet Union have flowed into the United States during the last few decades, but there has been no effort to organize them into a nationwide body—until now. With the help of a government grant, the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society is setting up a national network to strengthen and connect local organizations serving Russian Jews. The technical assistance will teach local groups how to apply for federal funding and form social sendee organizations. The grant will also help local groups share information, conduct training and develop program ideas. The $176,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Refugee Resettlement will help phase in a project called LOREO-for Local Russian Emigre Organizations-over the next three years. Project coordinators will be put in place this year in New York, Atlanta, San Francisco and Minneapolis.
HIAS will provide training and teach the local leaders how to launch advocacy programs and work together with Jewish federations. HIAS also will develop a bilingual civic participation guide to increase voter registration and help Russian emigre become U.S. citizens. An interactive LOREO Web site is also in the works. Planners expect that its message board, monthly calendar and links will help facilitate grass-roots organizing efforts. Since the mid-1970s, HIAS has helped more than 300,000 Jewish refugees from the former Soviet Union and its successor states escape persecution and rebuild new lives in the United States. A number of factors have prevented the community from organizing on a national scale. They include a lack of funding, language barriers and a mistrust of government left over from the immigrants' days in the Soviet Union. Wariness of political organizations has likewise given Russian-speakers little incentive to get involved in American politics.
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