February 14, 2003

JEWISH PRESS Vol. LXXXI1

No. 24

Omaha, NE

12 Adar 1,5763

February 14,2G83

CELEBRATING 82 YEARS OF SERVICE TO NEBRASKA AND WESTERN IOWA

After U.S. Issues Heightened Alert, Jews Try to Go About Their Business by MATTHEW E. BERGER •

WASHINGTON, (JTA)-David Waldner isn't going to let new warnings that terrorists might be targeting U.S. Jewish sites change Ms routine. "I'm not going to stop what I'm doing because someone said, 'It's orange today,5" Waldner said Sunday as his 21-month-old son, Dylan, played outside the District of Columbia's Jewish Community Center. The reference to "orange" reflected the increased state of alert that government officials announced over the weekend. Waldner's sentiment was shared by other Jews who plan to live their lives as normal, despite the upgraded alerts and added security at Jewish institutions. Newsweek reported that FBI officials began contacting Jewish leaders last Friday to warn them to be especially vigilant and to enhance security at Sabbath services and other weekend events, law enforcement sources said. Indeed, Abraham Foxman, national director of the Anti-Defamation League, said the organization "received calls and visits around the country by law enforcement bureau staff." Their message: "Help us communicate to the Jewish community" that "Jewish institutions may be targeted," Foxman said. """When we said, 'Is there anything specific?' they said no." Foxman said it is the third time that the FBI has warned of a threat against Jewish groups, noting an alert in April following a terror attack on a synagogue ha Tunisia that fuel trucks might target Jewish institutions. While there are no specific threats, Foxman said, "The fact that they reached out to us means that somewhere, someone felt that there was a specific need to reach out to the Jewish community." An FBI spokesman said he couldn't discuss which organizations or businesses were contacted, or what intelli-

gence the bureau had received. In today and forget tomororder to issue a public alert, he said, row. Our Jewish instituthe information would have had to be tiGQs are very aware of more specific and credible. the situation and have "When we receive this information taken reasonable precauand it targets a specific group, we try tions. We are confident in to make an assessment, and as of now OUT work with law it has not been corroborated," Paul en forcemeat we have Bresson said. "But nonetheless, we done all that one caa reafeel the need to just put the commusonably do unless the nity on alert." ih:-eats escalate. Malcolm Hoenlein, executive vice "Let's hope that never chairman of the Conference of happens." Presidents of Major American Jewish New York's JCRC also is Organizations, downplayed the conworking with the United cern, saying the group's conversa-Jewish Communities, the tions with security officials indicate-1 umbrella group of North no evidence of increased risk t? i American Jewish federaJewish institutions. tions, and a panel of profesBut Homeland Security Secretary sors in emergency preTom Ridge said it is better to err on | paredness at John Jay the side of safety by warning the College of Criminal Justice Jewish community. co produce an emergency "I think its appropriate to draw the planning manual for conclusion that they are potentially a Jewish organizations. target because they have been atarget The manual, begun after , , , T_ u i- - . A security guard uses a dog to check the rooms « , , , .„ , . elsewhere, a n d w e should anticipate ,,, xi~ T - i_ • *.• • » . - Sept. 11, will advise agenr ,, , ,, „ . ,, , , , at the offices of a Jewish organization in New - , * , ,, that they could conceivably be targets , r , ,, - T . ^ .. n * >• cies how to respond to all T .,,. , / . . , , „ „ . , ° ., York as the Jewish Community R e l a t i o n s , . , _ , within this country as weH, Ridge said „ .-, „ , , , , T, _ . , kinds of worst-case scenar•s/r J OTn, m, I Council of New vYork held a Congressional. » , Monday on JNBCS loday show, _ ._ . , ,, ,-•- ^ .. j _, ios, from hurricanes to a , ,. , , . , • r. BreaMast, Among the politicians who attended „ . . « ., According to Newsweek, new inlor„ , „.„ _.. , ~, , sniper scenario,' said ,. _, , , ,, , . , . , -were Senators Hillary Clinton, Charles „ - , „ „ , *,-»»,-> mation warned about the rpossibility „ , __4 T , . , , David Pollock, JCRC J ~ .. „ . , „ . , , , , Schumer, Barbara of A l - Q a1x d a a t t a c k s o n s y n a g o g u e s , — . ,.

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. -C ., . T ., Representatives. Pkoto by DamdEarp „ . . _, ., Jewish community centers, Jewish or Director. The guide is Jewish-owned hospitals, youth took steps to alert then- members and expected to be distributed in CD format groups, hotels and resorts. to North American federations, synabeef up security. Officials said they are unusually The New York Police Department gogues and Jewish schools next month. Even before the securiiy warnings, worried both because of recent elec- notified the Jewish Community tronic intercepts that suggest an Relations Council of New York, which the JCC in Manhattan had beefed up imminent- attack as well as the sheer sent an an alert to its agencies last its security because of the possibility volume of reports that have been com- Friday advising them to increase vigi- of aU.S.-led war against Iraq. ing in mentioning Jewish targets, the lance, secure targets and prepare an "People are concerned about war, and magazine reported. therefore there's anxiety about it," the emergency plan. It has advised agen"This is a full-court press," one FBI cies to determine fortification and exit JCC's Executive Director^ Debby official told Newsweek about the strategies with the help of then- local Hirshman, said. "We wanted to reflect bureau's sudden outreach to Jewish police precincts. our sensitivity to those anxieties." groups. "There's real anxiety about this." (Carol Katzman. in Omaha and JTA Staff Bob Wolfson, Executive Director of Around the country, officials alerted the ADL-CRC in Omaha added, Writer Rachel Pomerance in New York conJewish organizations which, in turn, "Security is not a business you can do tributed to this report.) T

Volunteers Needed! by JOAN K. MARCUS —

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Several members of the Omaha Jewish communi- of Guadalupe Church has been "one of the most ty have been spending time in what may seem like gratifying experiences" he's ever had. unlikely places hi South Omaha—far from where Two of the members of the team are retired teachyou'd usually see them. Day by day, however, ers: Ruth Potash and Helen Epstein. But Potash they're teaching basic reading skills and preparation for the GED-General Education Development-and a high school diploma. This small group of volunteers, led by Dinah Raful, administrator from the Omaha Public School District's Adult Basic Education Program, is also assisting new immigrants to the community with their English language skills—reading, writing and speaking. A final component includes preparation for taking the citizenship exam and becoming naturalized Americans. "Sometimes you don't see results right away," admitted Irv Yaffe, who's been volunteering his tune to tutor students for 14 years now. "However, we've seen a lot of students go through (this program), get their GEDs-and then we've gone to then- gradua- Gloria Kaslow is delighted when her students tions!" Yaffe added that his tune spent at Our Lady know the answers-in English!

noted that the gratification she receives from the job "is almost better than the money. Students in the ESL program are so anxious to learn. They can't get enough knowledge fast enough. "We're also glad to have Gloria Kaslow as a volunteer," Potash added. "She taught in the United Talmud Torah and is an expert on the Bible and the Holocaust, She's wonderful with the students!" Epstein went on to say, "I enjoyed teaching English to children because they want to learn and they work very hard in the classroom. It's so gratifying to see their progress." (Continued on page 6)

INSIDE: Teen Age A Survivor Speaks Health Care Panel

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February 14, 2003

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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CAIINDARGF EVENTS

Israel, Iraq and Our State of the Union

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 AIPAC Council Meeting, 7 a.m. Artist in residence Rabbi Joe Black, 6 p.m., at Temple Israel £ SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 l 39-Forever at Grande Old Players, 2 p.m. P Israeli Dinner, 5 p.m., at Beth Israel &

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17 s YES Program, 10 a.m. A Florence Melton Adult Mini School, 11 a.m.

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Talmud Class with Rabbi Kutner, 7 p.m., • at Both Israel

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A Cleaning of Yesteryear

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Guy and Bob Lunch & Learns, noon BBYO Night, 6 p.m. BBYO Summer Program Info Night, 6 p.m. JFS Couples Interfaith Group, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Hadassah Board Meeting, 10 a.m. . B'nai B'rith Breadbreakers,. hoori, at Park Inn Regency BESTT High School Dinner, 6 p.m. L THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 p: Walk-in Drop-in, 10 a.m, ., Kripke Library Book Discussion Group, noon. & Yiddish Group Meeting, 1 p.m. s JELS Speaking Freely, 7 p.m. A Nebraska Jewish Historical Society board V meeting, 7 p.m.

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All events held at the JCC unless otherwise Indicated. The Jewish Press is not responsible for the accuracy of events. To keep calendar accurate or for questions, call Mariene Hert at 334-6437. FOR A COMPLETE LISTING, VISIT THE FEDERATION'S WEBSITE: www.JewishOmaha.org (click on calendar)

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OTMAR LIEBENSTEIN Otmar Liebenstein died in Skokie, TL, on Feb. 8 at the age of 89. Services were held Feb. 11 in Chicago. by RABBI MYER S. KRIPKE , —•— He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth, who Parashat Tetzaveh died in 2000. Our Sidra starts with the request for olive oil for He is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Marty lighting in the sanctuary. and Iris Ricks; and grandchildren, Paul Waitz, (Do you remember the long series of programs Andrea Waitz, Jennifer and Ken Zeidman, and that the Conservative movement once had on Marc Ricks. Sunday mornings, where the reader, in solemn, Donations to Temple Israel, the NAtional Council deep voice, quoted the Bible as asking for pure oil, of Jewish Women, or The Foundation of the Jewish olive?) Federation of Omaha. Did you notice the order of the words? Pure oil, olive. That always evoked special attention. Our Sidra goes on to describe the investiture of Aaron and his sons as priests. The priesthood was not an occupation for which one studied. It was hereditary. by RABBI ARYEH BLUM, Director In our day the priesthood is almost entirely hon"For the Jews there was light, gladness, joy, and orary, and some synagogues give no attention to it honor." (Megilas Esther 8:16) These words at all, since we cannot be sure of family traditions. from the Megillah are the theme of this It is probably true that some American Kohanim year's first annual Omaha Center for became Kohanim on shipboard, crossing the Torah Learning (OCTL) community Purim Atlantic from Europe to the United States. meal on Tuesday, March 18, 5 p.m. at There's a careful description of all the vestments the OCTL House, 1313 No. 58 St. of the priests, which only they were permitted to Bring your costumes and your kids wear. And there is a description of the solemn for a spectacular Purim meal, filled installation ceremonies, which presented the with song and "shpieF. You might priests as special people within the congregation. have heard about our Shabbos They were to be, as it were, holy men, to perform meals, but Purim steals the show! various ceremonies for the rest of the people, and "Purim is the holiest day of the Levites were assigned to be their assistants. year and a time where JOWH Our Kohanim today do not wear any special vest- express their brotherhood with ments. The only place where you can see what these each other," added Shari Blum, vestments once looked like would be a Catholic "We hope that Jews from all Mass. walks of life will feel free to visit How do you like them apples? us and share a little of themselves." In our congregations today the rabbi takes the The cost is $15foradults (free for children under place of what the Kohane used to do. The Kohane age 12), however everyone is invited to come, crash, was once a teacher and as most of us know, the and visit even if they don't stay for the meal. The word rabbi means "my teacher." OCTL will provide entertainment and expects this I was trying to explain to a non-Jewish friend year's Purim to be a truly memorable experience. what the rabbi does. From his own experience he To reserve your spot, call OCTL at 320-8055. ' thought the rabbi was "a preacher." And by that he meant, one who urges the congregation to remain faithful, to follow the teachings of Christianity, to listen to exhortations, encouragements, and appeals for loyalty. The American Jewish pulpit is, as all congregants b y J E N N I F E R K E L L E Y » »'••• •• •• • • • ' • ' • " ' recognize, a place where the rabbi teaches rather What can we do to help Israel? How should we than exhorts, instructs rather than appeals, inves- view the impending war with Iraq? What light can tigates implications rather than asks for loyalty. age old Jewish truths shed on The State of our Rather than admire elaborate vestments, our con- Union? gregants would rather hear tips on good investRabbi Moshe Y. Feller, Scholar-in-Rosidence at ments...To be fair, our congregants are willing to Chabad House will address these and other presshear also about investments in people, in character, ing issues through the lens of Jewish mysticism at in the spread of Torah. the community wide Shabbat Dinner at Chabad House on Friday, Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Feller, emissary of the Rebbe to the Twin Cities since 1962, ia the regional director of Upper Midwest Merkos Chabad Lubavitch.He is a dynamic, humorous, entertaining speaker who engages audiences worldwide. His thoughts are incisive and his attitude uplifting. Born and raised in the Twin Very Thorough Cities, Rabbi Feller fecLs at home in a city like and Dependable Omaha. Excellent References Rabbi Feller has been a frequent guest at the oval office and has opened the U.S. Congress with prayer on numerous occasions. Linda Onso Rabbi Mendel Katzman expects "a lively, spirited, 614-5986 spiritual experience for all who will participate. Rabbi Feller is a down to earth fellow Midwesterner who is sure to inspire," he said. The cost for dinner is $10 for adults, $5 for children and students. The dinner will include a full three course meal of traditional Jewish food. , Reservations can be made by calling 330-1800.

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February 14, 2008

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

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14506 GaHtornia Omaha, NE 68154-1980 492-8550 ^VEB--www.betheI-omaha.org FKIDAY: Men's CZufi, U: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 Service, 7:30 p.m., Kabbi Arych Azriel and Cantor Wendy Shermet will officiate. Rabbi Azriel will give the sermon, The Oneg is sponsored by Women of Reform Judaism. SATURDAY; Bagels and Sacred Books, 9:30 a.m,, in the Milder Center. Please join us as we continue study of Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries: The Amidah; Morning'service, 10;30 a.m« MEN'S CLUB SUNDAY, FEB. 16,10 a.m. Join Men's Club for a brunch of lox and bagels and a stimulating conversation with Sen. Chuck Hagel, no charge for Men's Club members; non-members, $3. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY, FEB. 16, noon, Join Rabbi Aariel for an informal BYO lunch and sidcusaion of current events and issues that affect the Jewish community. WEDNESDAY, F E B . 19 "A Guide to the Parplexed: Reading the, Writings of Maimonidvs" Lunch and Learn, noon-1 p.m. Rabbi A'/xiul will teach this three-week lunch 'n learn, .wrien using The Maimonides Header, THURSDAY, FEB. 20; Beyond Bade Hebrew, 9:15-10 a.m.? Adult Study with Rabbi Azriel, 10llt30 a.m. . FAMILY SHABBAT DINNEK Friday, Feb. 28, Following the 5s80 p,nt, service •using the Union Prayer Book, Temple will host a fostivo Shabbat dinner, Call the office, 656-6536, by Monday, Feb. 17, to reserve. DIAGNOSIS! CRISIS IN HEALTH CARE Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 a.mu, The Social Justice Education Forum presents a panel on assuring access to health care in Nebraska, See complete article on page 12.

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: Kahbalat Shabbat, 5:40 p.m.; The West Minyan is at the home of Rabbi Mendel and Shani Katzman, at 5;45 p.m. A weekly e-mail update is now being sent out, listing synagogue events. Please e-mail the office to be on the list. SATURDAY: Morning Seruices, 8:45 a,m, Free babysitting begins at 10 a.m.; Junior Congregation, IOJSO a.m., Kiddush is sponsored by Sisterhood. Mincha, 5:30 p.m., followed by Shalosh Suedot and Ma'ariv; Eavdalah, 6:40 p.m. SUNDAY: Services, 9 a.m. There is no Sunday School as it is Presidents' Day weeekend. Rabbi Kutner will be the guest on KKAR radio, 1290AM at 1 p.m. "Let's Go Out to Eat," 6 p.m., following evening services at 6:45 p.m. WEEKDAYS; Services, 7 a.m. and 6s80 p.m MONDAY, F e b . 17: No Hebrew School. Rabbi Kutner's Talmud Class, 7 p.m. WEDNESDAY, Feb. 19: Rabbi Eutnar'a monthly lunch *n learn is at ftoon, at Joo Kirshenbaum's office at Noddle Development. A Bagel Bin lunch k available for $6, Rabbi Ari Roekoff of Yeshiva University's Department of Youth and Outreach Services joins Rabbi Kutner in leading the discussion, SHABBOS HOUSE Saturday, Fob. 22t Parents and children in prudes K-12 are invited to the home of Drs, Howard Gendelmaa and Bonnie Bloch for an afternoon of schmoozing and learning.

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Office hours are: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-G p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shabbat Services are conducted by Eabbi Mordechai Levin, Cantor Emil Berkovits and Ritual Director Gast6n Bogomolni. F R I D A Y J Come join a joyous, musical Kabbalat Shabbat service, 6 p.m. SATURDAY: Morning services, 9:30 a.m., Joshua Simon, son of Steve and Marsah Simon, will colebratehis BarMiztvah. Kiddish is sponsored by Sam and Judy Cooper and Mick and Tootie Simon in honor of their grandson's Bar Mitzvah. Rabbi Levin's Tbrah Class, 5:15 p.m. informal discussion and snack, followed by services at 6:45 p.m. WEEKDAY SERVICES? Sunday, 9 a.m. and 5:30 p,m,; weekdays at 6:55 a.m. and 5s30 p.m. . A THOUGHT FOR SHABBAT To receive Rabbi Levin's weekly "Thought For Shabbat" e-mail message, please send your e-mail address to Exec@bothol-omaha,otg. •: v . ; ••• -: ' C H A B A D - H O U S E . ; - ' r •' ::.;.:: An MiiliiXi' ol tin- Win lihvidv Chabail luliavitih [Hovonu'ilt

18«(} So. I20th St.,' Omaha, NE «81M"1(>46 IMiouu: a:?0-1800 E-MAiL.-eUabiKi@aol.com WEBSITE: www.nebraslcajudaisni.com " ServicoH conducted by Rabbi Mondel Katzman. Monday-Friday, services at 7 a.m. SATURDAY: Morning Seroin; OtSO a.m., followed by a Kiddush luncheon. SUNDAY: Morning Sen/itr, 8:80 a.m. ADULT EDUCATION TUESDAY; Pnnha* Hafihtwunh (weekly Torah portion), 7»&t$0 p.m., Ud by rabbinic student Mondol Plecht. To register for any class, please coll Jennifer at 330-1800, or e-mail cbabadofficc@aol.com.

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. FRIDAY? Shabbat in the Home, . . '. ''.;'.''- . j e v v . i s h i i e b r a s k u . o r g ' .••'• •'. • ; ••'. SATURDAYS Members of the congregation will Services conducted by Rabbi Stanley M, Roaenbaum, elad services at the Blumkin Home, 9 ft.m. Minyan, Monday & Thursday, 7:15 aum. ''FRIDAY: Shabbat service, ft p.m. SUNDAY: Religious Hebrew School, 3s30 p.m. at FRIDAY; Sendees, 8 p.m. SATURDAYS Morning Service., 9*30'turn., Tbrah t h e . J C C . . v .. , ' •• •.• • . • . .'. . . SATURDAY: Morning service, 9J30 a.m. Study, 10:80 a.m.; Game night, 6 p.m. TUESDAY} Religioua Hebrew School, 4 p.m. at SUNDAY, Feb. 16; PirkeAvot, 10 a.m. SUNDAY! No Hebrew School; Megittah rehearsal, MONDAY, Feb. 17: Torah study, 7:80 p.m. 12:30p.m. theJGC TUESDAY, Feb. 18, noon, Ladies' Lunch Bunch MONDAY: Hebrew, 7 p.m. at Ttemple at the Olive Garden. TUESDAY? Mishna with Rabbi Milder,- 7 pan. WEDNESDAY, Board meeting, 7 p.m. MEN'S GROUP Meets at The Knolls every Wednesday at 12*30 p.m. THURSDAY: B'nai Mitzvah elms, 6 p.m. Benny Nachman, son of Both Stacnberg and BAKERS NEEDED ARTRAGEOUS EVENING OF ART Gary Nachman, will Volunteers are needed to bake hamatashon for the Saturday, March 8, 7:80 p.m., Art auction, hot? bocoim* a Bar Mitzvah on Purim Shpiol on March 16. Call the synagogue d'ocsvroH and desnerts, $5 in advance; $7 at the door. Saturday, Feb. 22 at Both office for details. Kl SyitHRoguo. B'NAI ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE Benny is a .sovi'nlb-urad618 JMynstor St., Council Bluffs, IA or Hi, Wo.stHidi) Middle ROSE BLUMKIN JEWISH HOME • ••'•. ; 51503-07(56 ' , •.. '. ;. School and has volunPhone: 322-4705 ts-mail: docjcb@aol.coin tccjrod UH a ciimp counSATURDAY; 9 a,m,» services conducted by memselor at the 1'pimio Z. FRIDAY: Evening Service, 7{30 p.m. Oneg will bers of the Beyt Shalom Reconstructianist Davis Child Dovolopmont Congregation, are open to the community. follow. Center for the past two summers, His special interests include art, squirrels and Tuo-Kwon-Do. Bonny has two brothers. Lev and Marty. by CLAUDIA SHERMAN, Grandparents art* Marlenc Hechtmau and Temple Israel Communications Coordinator ,, inn.,,.,,,,., Leonard and Mimi Naclnnnn. (Jroat-graiulpaninLs are tin* late Rebecca Wolf and (!;uilor WIMKIV Kbcnnol,, from 'IVmjtlc I s n m l , will Ixjonard H c r a s t c i n a n d HU'Vt'ii Sondhoiai will also join t h e MiistcrSiiifiors tU. L'Ouiim, a progriun cclo- be p a r t oft lie p r o g r a m . the late Joanullt! RoHenbloorn.

BAR MITZVAH

Cantor Shermet to Perform with MasterSingers

bratinK Jowish imi.sical tradition, at :\ conccrl. tin S u n d a y , F o b . 2a, UJIJO p . m . ut Millard Wi'st rii«h SCIUHJI, 17(5th and 1} S[rt>r<s. Majiii'i'Siiif,!-!".. a rhnral urtmji (il'-)ii iicrliirmcni, i.ir.jUD", in bnlh Ui'lm-w .mtl Ktujlish, will j>ns>rnt Mu'i'ffl ft'v.i-.h iiiu ai1 a-, well a.1, imr-ic by J<'\vis|] ;"!1 Mho/, t u t " ' .md mii'k" tlii'iiH'-f by

Ciin(or ShoniK't h e l p e d plan \\\v. Uu' pn)gr;mi a n d will King fiovcral SOIOH. T\W Ma-iti'rSiiujfr-s is a m tluKod by J i m JOlshi-rry. Oall ;jiK?-(HH lu rc:;rivc tickel.1-; m ji«lvai»'<- T h c v io:.t $!r>ai thiMlmir %VA (<>r !,t'uiur> ant! in adv.tmv; $;i w i t h a .student uh'iififu-.ttitttt; a m i irt-t- for u i i l <lrcji V.] a n d

PERSONAL I would likn to thank all our fnonds and Urnily fur r confniitjttfin;;, rails, cafdn, olo, in montory nf rny latn luisluiriff, Hr. J Milton Manjoiin Ann Margolin

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 14, 2003

What Makes a Hero?

EDITORIAL

and women who take that risk. With a planet on the brink of war, wo all need that "one small step" to revive our hope in mankind's potential. The Columbia Seven knew that-and they are our heroes for it.

Ilan Ramon and his six colleagues, Col. Ramon. who perished just 16 minutes before We should not be disheartened by their shuttle was to land at Cape the failure of this mission—for it will Canaveral, are already being touted prove to be a success. Not only will the as heroes. In one memorial service scientific evidence be as valuable as after another, the astronauts have previous missions (where items like been lauded for their larger-than-life titanium hip personae--but would this have hap- joints, cell phone pened if the Columbia had landed technology, and safely? Probably not. video conferencing Why is that? are just a few of the discoveries and Even those of us who can recall exactly where we were at the moment inventions created Neil Armstrong took "one small step" by space travel), on the moon, shuttle launchings, but NASA will months on the Mir space station, and learn how to make shuttle other NASA projects have become rou- future tine. We yawn as yet another landing landings safer. occurs, shrug as one more satellite is That is the launched and ho-hum as a new set of American way, astronauts are selected; after all. Learn But space travel is anything but rou- from mistakes and tine, as we sadly discovered Jan. 31. go forward. And Sixteen days in space were shortened that's how these will be by 16 minutes in which a shuttle with seven seven precious lives was extinguished. r e m e m b e r e d - - a s astronauts The men and women aboard repre- the sented what was best about America- whose deaths led a microcosm of white and black, to better defined, Christian and Jew, Eastern, and safer and more Western hemispheres of "this fragile promising space planet," so eloquently described by program.

Most Americans, indeed most of the world, wants that to happen. Though only a few of us will escape the hold of this planet to experience God's great, vast incomprehensible universe, we will have renewed respect for the men

JOURNAL ENTRY FROM ISRAEL

The Israeli Elections

by T E D D Y W E I N B E R G E R

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Election day in Israel is a national holiday, a (with his lack of experience in national politics) to Mafdal, the national-religious political party, be Prime Minister?" 3) On Thursday Jan. 23 at 2 p.m., IRAC learned "Shabbaton" (sabbatical) for Israel's economy. As usual before any election, various commentaThe curious thing is that supporters of Shinui (a that the Shas party was going to preside over an tors pointed to the huge economic cost of this shab- party that won nearly as many seats as Labor), inauguration of a mikveh (ritual bath) that was baton, but apparently no one seriously expects the never had to face the question "What, you want going to be held that evening at 7:30 in a Ttel Aviv typical Israeli to be able to handle both work and Tommy Lapid (a one-issue candidate: hatred of the neighborhood. As the area's religious council (under whose auspices the mihveh was built) was not prevoting on the same day. There was little joy in ultra-Orthodox) to be Prime Minister?" Israel on this particular Shabbaton, however; Apparently, if your party's #1 spot does not "cam- siding over this inauguration and as the mikveh had Israelis knew that they were in a worse situation paign" as a candidate for Prime Minister, then you still not yet been completed, it was obvious that than when Ariel Sharon, first became Prime are free to go to the polls without giving this issue Shas was trying to take unwarranted political credMinister, and yet they also knew that Sharon would much thought—though clearly, because of the one- it for the mikveh. be re-elected. vote system, when.you vote for any party, no matter By 3 p.m., one of our lawyers had drafted a petiThis was an election where most voters settled on how small, you are also voting for Prime Minister. tion to Justice Hishin, who promptly set a hearing their party by a process of elimination. Few peopleAnother area that interested (and amused) me in on the matter a few hours later, at six. At the hear-including Likkud voters-went to the polls with these elections was the role of Supreme Court ing, Shas agreed to just hold a regular political rally bright eyes and great hopes for the 16th Knesset of Justice Mishael Hishin, Chairman of the Central without any connection to the mikveh. the State of Israel. Elections Committee, Anyone observing the work of Looking at all of this running back and forth to In these elections, after experimenting with a two- Justice Hishin during this election campaign would and from Justice Hishin, I could not but help think vote system in the voting for the last two Knessets have had to say: clearly this is a democracy in its of little kids at play-who often spend as much time (one vote for Prime Minister one for the Knesset), infancy, for everyone is still arguing about the rules. arguing about the rules of the day's game as they do As someone who works for the Israel Religious in playing it, Israel returned to the one-vote system, where you vote for one party's Knesset slate, and- the Prime Action Center (IRAQ, an organization that made American democracy has long gotten to the point Minister is traditionally drawn from the top spot of various petitions to Justice Hishin about illegal where certain electioneering norms have been electioneering, I happen to have followed this area established. To be sure, there are violations of these the party that garners the most votes. Many people, though, insisted on viewing their closely. Here are three of the cases that IRAC sub- norms (just as there are violations of the financing vote as chiefly being a vote not for a party but for mitted to Justice Hishin: laws that govern the sponsorship of the electioneerthe Prime Minister, Indeed, the two leading par1) There are several popular pirate radio stations ing) but the prosecution of these violations is so ties encouraged this approach (Likud with Ariel with national broadcasting capabilities. Most of much more staid and respectable. Sharon acting very Prime Ministerial, and Labor these stations are affiliated with the ultra-Orthodox It was a little disconcerting to see a Supreme with the slogan "we believe in you Mitzna" to try Shas party. Court Justice being put into a position of acting lik« to capitalize on the financial scandals plaguing In Israel, radio and television political advertising a school-yard monitor, Sharon), • . • is strictly regulated, and yet these pirate radio staThe bright side to all of this is that Israel's demoSo when people asked me about my vote (in tions broadcast political advertisements at will. We cratic struggles arc a reflection of the realization of Israel it is considered rude to refuse to disclose asked that Justice Hishin order the stations to the hope expressed in Israel national anthem: "to your voting preference—in America many consider cease and-desist from their illegal electioneering. live as a free people in our land." it rude to ask the question), and I said that I was 2) Rabbis who are employed by the State are forWe're still working out the kinks in our democvoting for Labor (to which my party Meimad—the bidden to campaign on behalf of political parties. racy here, but it doesn't hurt to remind ourselves Jewish democratic party-had aligned itself), they IRAC petitioned Justice Hishin against the use of every now and then that the very struggle is itself would immediately say, "What, you want Mitzna such rabbis in the campaign advertisements of a privilege.

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February 14, 2003 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

BEHIND THE HEADLINE

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News of Candidate's Jewish Roots Adds Another Flavor to Campaign by PETER EPHROSS — —

NEW YORK (JTA)-First it was American Jewish Historical Society then-Secretary of State Madeleine every year asking for help in their Albright. Next it was Gen, Wesley search for Jewish roots. Clark, tho supreme allied commander "The e-mails usually run along the of NATO during the lines of, 'My name is war in Kosovo. Kelly Smith, but my grandmother's name Now it's was Sara Democratic presidential candidate Goldstein'," said John Kerry whoso Michael Feldberg, Jewish roots are the executive direcbeing reported, tor of the historical society, which is Kerry? based in New York. The Massachusetts senator, the Kerry said he had q u i n I e K S <• a I, i a I asked cousins and WAHP-y looking searched on the politician with an Internet, but had I r is h -so un d i n g found only bits of name? information on his family history. Yup. Two of Kerry's The news docs not Sen. J o h n Kerry grandparents wore appear to have Jewish, it turns out, major political ramifications-as WHS Kerry, who is a practicing tJatliolic, the case wif.li Albright, said he has known for 15 years that There was m\ initial hubbub when his paternal grandmother was Albright, secretary of stain in the Jewish, but had unsuccessfully (-Union administration, learned in searched for news of his paternal 1997 that three of her four grandpargrandfather's roots, ents were Jewish. However, a genealogist hired by the, Tho next lime she wan in Prague Boston Gluho found that Kerry's Albright visited tho Pinkaa grandfather was born to a Jewish Synagogue, where tho nnmns of her family in a small town in the O.ech paternal grandparents are inscribed Republic. on a wall among thousands of Czech "TliiH is incredible .stuff," Kerry told Jews who died in the Holocaust. the Globe. "1 think it i.s more than There was little political fallout from interesting. It is a revolution." her difjcovory-though when she dealt The records show tlutt bin grandfa- with the Lsrauli-PaloHliiuu.il peace ther, I'Yoderick Kerry, was born as process many Arab commentators i'Yit/. Kohn. lie changed his name to called her a Zionist and said .she had u Kerry in 1902, immigrated to the pro-Israel bias. United States in 1905-and committed Observers nay tho revelation about suicide in a Boston hotel in 1921. Kerry is unlikely to affect the 2004 Frederick Kerry's story highlights presidential race. tin; Jewish experience of earlier gen"There's no question there's a lot of erations, UrandiiiK University profes- pride in a Jewish candidate and pride sor Jonathan Sarna said, in family Jewish connections, but Iho "What we are realizing is how sig- American Jewish community is fairly nificant was the trend toward conver- mature* in its political behavior," said sion and abandonment of Judaism, for Ira Formats, the Executive Director of I lie sake of upward mobility, in an ear- tin: National Jewish Democratic lier era of America," said Sarim, the Council. Hraun professor of American Jewish As far as non-JewH go, "had it como history at the school in Waltham, MA, out in 195.3 instead of 2OO.'i, it would "Given the quite .significant anti- have been fatal to his presidential Semitism of the early 20th century ambitions," Foldberg said, but not in and the evident obstacles that stood today's world. in the path to success, people simply Kerry's revelation adds another changed their names and sloughed off Jewish flavor to the 2004 race for the their Judaism," Democratic presidential nomination. But that path wasn't always) suc- Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT), who declared last month, that he will seek cessful, Sarna said. Kerry's grandfather's suicide appar- the nomination, is an observant Jew. Another contender, former Vermont ently stemmed from financial trouGov. Howard Dean, is married to a bles. But one could wonder if, by changing Iris name and identity, the Jewish woman and is raising his chilman had cut himself off from any dren as Jews. sense of community, Sarna said, And Clark, who told the Forward The Kerry story also might hold les- recently that he is descended from sons for the present and future make- "generations of rabbis," is also 'weighing up of American Jewry, Sarna said. a 2004 Democratic presidential bid. According to current statistics, mil"I wonder what this means for his lions of Americans like Kerry may Saturdays?" Jano Cabrera, a have Jewish roots but don't consider spokesman for Lieberman's campaign, themselves Jewish. joked about Kerry, "Regardless, at "The question is if that is going to be this rate, we should have a minyan at seen a century from now as a harbin- the debates." (JTA correspondent Matthew E. ger of whore American Judaism is Berger in Washington contributed going," Sarna asked. Of course, several people contact the to this, report.)

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In last week's story about Hadasaah honoring Rose Gross, her husband's combo was stsmnud incorrectly; it should have read, "Music by Gary," The •Press regrets the error.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 14, 2003

Volunteers Needed ( C o n t i n u e d f r o m p a g e 1 ) : <u< •

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Epstein added that she loves learning about other cultures and tried to relate what students are learning to their own heritage. "It's important they don't lose their identity while learning English," Epstein insisted. " one of the best parts about teaching ESL is that I get to work with the students one-on-one and really get to know them. Their progress is rapid and I'm always amazed at how quickly they learn!" Though Epstein is paid for her work, she noted that "working with people from other cultures is so gratifying-it's obvious I love what I do!" "Some of the people come in two or three times a week for tutoring in reading or spelling," added Irv Yaffe. "Their goals may differ, but most want to get a 12th grade education." Yaffe was recruited by his longtime friend Stuart Muskin, who also convinced Bud Studna to share his skills in mathematics with these students. Raful, who administers the program, explained that "some of our students escaped from Sudan because their country was engaged in civil war— these kids would have been killed. "They were finally sent I to a United Nations refugee camp, where they | -learned to speak English. However, they learned in I an oral environment because they speak Nuer— an oral-baaed Arabic language," she added. "The I Sudanese students speak well, but they can't write and they need help with! vocabulary." Dinah Raful is This program needs administrator of the more volunteers like program for OPS. Yaffe, Muskin, Studna and Kas]ow-or retired teachers like Epstein and Potash. Volunteers don't need to have teaching

degrees, according to Raful, and "can come from any walk of life. "We like all kinds of people," she said with a smile. "If volunteers can come and spend two to three hours, we can direct them to programs all over the city. But the greatest need is in North and South Omaha." Classes are offered mornings, afternoons and evenings. Volunteers for the GED program deal with math, English, social studies, science and reading. Volunteers can give their time once a week or more, depending on their schedules. It's also possible to volunteer for both the GED and ESL programs. "Both need one-on-one time with the students," added Raful, "so that they can receive individualized instruction." Although the students are mostly from Sudan and Latin America, Raful noted- that the program does have additional students from Korea, China, Japan and Viet Nam. "It's not necessary to be bilingual though," Raful added. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer in one or both programs can contact Raful at the Adult Basic Education office, at 557-2620. "After a short orientation, volunteers get the chance to work with people who are totally motivated to loam!"

Photo at left; Bud Studna was recruited by longtime friend Stuart Muskin, who also volunteers for the program. Top photo: .'Ruth Potash, a retired teacher, teaches English as u Second Language to a new immigrant. Bottom photo: Irv Yaffe helps a student obtain his high school equivalence.

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February 14, 2003 Jewish Press, Omaha, NK

Vago 7

OTYG Raises Nearly $20,000 at Annual Spaghetti Dinner & Auction by Janet Baack, OTYG Special Projects Coordinator

BBG Girls Present:

The B'nai B'rith Girls put on a talent show in the JCC theater last Tuesday, Feb. 11. Emceed by JJ and Aly Friedman and judged by Rachel Katzman, who also

chaired the event, Eugene Ayol and Measan Katelman. A dessert reception followed the show. The BByOers who performed proved they certainly had a lot of talent!

This past Sunday was my third Spaghetti Dinner with OTYG, and definitely the best. This year w e expanded the silent auction, which started at 10. a.m. We had more than 225 people attend the dinner. Forty teens from OT/G helped serve, set up, take down, and baby-sit. Althoush w e don't have the final count yet, w e know that w e raised V almost $20,000, exceeding.our goal'by almost $5,000. All proceeds will go to Camp Rainbow, Camp CoHoLo (two camps for children with cancer and blood disorders), OTYG and JYG programming. Before the live auction began, Barry Briemer, a member of board of trustees of Camp Rainbow, and a former camper/cur-

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As part of the auction, Rabbi Craig Marantz gave a short solo of Rainbow connection in his Kermit-the-frog voice, to promote his donation of a bedtime story. Such a huge success would not have been possible without a lot of planning and volunteers. Although initia! planning began last summer, committees began meeting on a weekly basis in December, A few names to mention: Dennis Deporte provided food and guidance in the kitchen and Debbie Baack cooked all the dessert. Jimmy Farber served as our auctioneer, and Rick and Shelly fox gave huge assistance wherever it was needed. Also a special thank you to Stephanie 1

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A group of the youth volunteers took a break from tftefr hard work lo have their « ow,n oirner, Morgjict Terry !lcft.\ JJ fncdrnen, Ny rnedman, Ki-lc Bc'nf/., N-^nil : Fox, Jon Gates, Lexle Newman, Caroline Terry and Sara Rips. Both middle and high school students helped staff the event. The girls of Edlar BBG #710 serenaded the crowd with Soul Sisters.

• i- pi'.*- t i-v lit-1 .-. " ' ! I I I Trubnikov, received a check. His talent was twirling glow sticks to song.

Freshman Chelsea Taxman of MZ Vtoshanah performed her rendition of I'm With You.

Teen Age Gallery...

The teens weren't the only ones helping out! Third graders Vince Long (left) and Jordon Jensen hand o u t tickets at the coat check with seventh grader Sarah Long and Brenna Robinson, fifth grade.

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Page 8

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 14, 2003

Forty Years Later, A Survivor Begins to Speak by JOAN K. MARCUS

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Almost forty years after they took place, Eva Geiringer Schloss began speaking about the events that changed her life. Born in Vienna in 1929, she described her childhood as being "assimilated" and remembers that hers was a home that was orientated toward Judaism-but not in a religious way. In cooperation with the Plains States Regional Office of the Anti-Defamation League, Eva spent a week in Omaha speaking about her experiences during the Holocaust and her friend and stepsister, Anne Frank. ' . , Schloss spoke following performances of the Nebraska Theatre Garavan's play And Then They Came for Me: Remembering the World of'Anne Frank, which continues with performances on on Feb. 26, 27, and 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the Blue Barn 614 S. 11 St. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Reservations can be made by calling 345-1576. ' Most of Schloss' classmates were Catholic, However, she and her Jewish classmates were taken out of class for about four hours each week to study Judaism. Her father, Erich, ran a large shoe factory and Fritzi, her mother, stayed at home to take care of the family. Eva remembers having a happy childhood. ."It was wonderful!" she recalled. "My parents both had siblings and we had cousins, grandparents and great family celebrations. My brother, Heinz, was three years older. We went to the mountains to ski in the winter and in the summer, we went swimming. We had holidays in Italy and everything was easy going." In the afternoons, Fritzi played bridge and went to coffee houses with her friends, "Life was without worry and everything was friendly. There were lots ,of parties with Jewish and non-Jewish friends," In 1935-36, economic depression all over Europe and America stimulated fights between political parties and the Communist party had begun to have influence, even in Austria, As children, Eva and Heinz didn't take much notice of the conditions. However, they did observe that thoir parents- began to listen more to tJio radio. Later, the children heard about the persecution of the Jews in Germany. "Our parents seemed worried," Eva recalled, "but they didn't say much to us." In March of 1938, German armies marched into Austria. "I went to play with a Christian friend after school; her mother opened the door and told me that I wasn't welcome there anymore," Eva said. "My mother explained that tilings were going to

we were really caught and there was.no way out. change for us-because we were Jewish!" "Posters were put up explaining what was going There had always been anti-Semitism in Austria, but it had been dormant until the occupation by the to happen. First, we had to turn in our radios and Germans. When her father exported shoes to then we weren't allowed out after certain hours. Wo Holland, he began leaving half of the money there had to wear the yellow star and we weren't allowed on public transports," she added. "We still went to instead of bringing it all to Austria. school and our family was Eva and Heinz didn't realtogether." ize it but their parents were Things began to escalate preparing for the terrible slowly. Jewish children had times that, were coming. to attend "Jewish-only" Their father left to make schools and then their bicyarrangements for the family cles were taken away from to move to Holland. them. One day, 10,000 The situation escalated Jewish boys and men were when Heinz was attacked in picked up from the streets school and it was decided and arrested. that he would be sent on to "Parents came home and Holland to join his father their children didn't turn while Eva and Fritzi up. There was much anxiety remained at home to try to and tension." sell some of their belongings. In June of 1942, the By this time, the shoe factoGermans sent postcards to ry had been taken over by Jewish children telling the Germans—as were all them that they would be Jewish businesses. deported to Jewish work In 1938, Eva and Fritzi camps. This was the definapplied for a visa to join the Eva Schloss ing moment when many rest of their family in Holland. The visa was denied, so they entered families decided they must go into hiding. Belgium illegally. In Brussels, they lived in a board"This was really when our family was separated. ing house with other refugees. Heinz went with my father and I stayed with my "I was only nine-years-old and I remember the mother," she continued. "We were in hiding for two whole family was scattered," she said sadly. years. Different Dutch families took us in but we "England allowed 10,000 Jewish children to come, had to change very often. The Germans did 'house but they had to leave their parents. Children were searches' and people became nervous about keeping taken to a station with a little suitcase and they us. That's why we had to keep moving." stood in a row so that families could pick out chilBy 1944, it was necessary to find new people in dren-like a cattle market! Those who weren't order to hide. A Dutch nurse came forward and picked were put into an orphanage!" offered to hide their family. She proved to be a "douShe remembers being penniless in Belgium, Their ble agent" and when she took Eva and Fritzi to HOC family would meet about twice a month and Eva Erich and Heinz, they all wore arrested. The* accepted the situation until October of 1939, when Gestapo took them to Wostorborg, a holding CHIUM England declared war on Germany. Eventually, in and then to AuBchwitz-Birkenau, 1940, they moved to Amsterdam into a furnished "When we Haw the platform, wo. know wo were al apartment where Eva played with Anne Frank. The Auschwitz-Birken.au," she said. "Later, we realized Franks had come from Frankfort, that the women were kept in barracks that the On May 5, 1940, the family learned that the Polish cavalry used for their horses! They wore low German armies had invaded Belgium. The buildings with nothing in them. In the middle, there Geiringers leil their apartment during the night was kind of a cement channel that was hontal for the horses—but not for us! They built bunks three and tried to catch a boat to go to England. shelves high for people to sleep on. Each area was "It was scary and there were guns and planes flying over us," she explained. "Then, we heard that separated by an electrified wire." the Germans had invaded Rotterdam. We realized (Continued on page 9)

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Archaeologist Arav to Speak at BELLS Luncheon by O Z 2 I E N O G G

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Dr. Kami Arav, an internationally known archaeologist and Director of the Bethsaida Excavation Project housed at the University of Nebraska in Omaha, will be the guest speaker at Beth El's BELLS luncheon on Saturday, March 1. His topic is "Will The Real Israel Please Stand Up? A New Perspective on History and the Bible." Born and raised in the Galilee to a family who wettied and farmed there since the end of the 19th century, Dr. Arav is a descendant of a famous Rabbinical family that included Rabbi Schreiber (known as Ilatani Sofer) and Rabbi Isaac Glueck, known for his interpretations of the Talmud. Arav received his BA and MA from Tel Aviv University and his Ph.D. from New York University. Ho has taught and done research at NYU, Hebrew Union College, The Golan Research Institute, Haifa University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He has also served as director of the Gan Hashlosha Museum in Israel and as the Chief Curator in the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv. He is the author, co-author and editor of many books and articles including the five-volume series: IMhmida: A City by the North Shore of the. Sou of Gulihw, which ho edited with former Omahan, Richard Pround,

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In 1987 Dr. Arav initiated the Bethsaida Excavation Project, which aimed to excavate and explore the remains of the Biblical city known as Bethsaida. In 1991, the Project formed the Consortium for the Excavations of Bethsaida. Housed at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the Project involves the participation of 35 scholars from 24 universities and colleges in the United States and Europe. Since its founding, the Bethsaida Project has provided an educational opportunity for thousands of students who wish to experience Biblical archaeology. During his talk at Beth El, Dr. Arav will explore the ways in which archaeological finds can, possibly, influence our understanding of the history of ancient Israel and our approach to the Bible, including how we deal with any Biblical confirmation or contradictions that archaeology may unearth, Beth El's March 1 BELLS lunch and discussion with Dr. Arav begins immediately after Shabbat morning services and Kiddush. The program will finish no later than 2 p.m. Lunch costs $8 for adults, $5 for students under twelve, and is available by advance reservation only. Free babysitting — from 12:45-1:45 p.m. — is also available by reservation. Please make your reservations by Friday, Feb. 21, by calling Kathy Schtuitt at the synagogue office, 492-8550. Beth El's BELLS programs arc open to the entire community.

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

(Continued from page 8) —-——— For the 10,000 people in the camp, are currently on exhibithere were two barrackK—with a little tion in the Ponnio Z. trickle of cold water and holes in Davis Gallery for cement for toilets. Prisoners had to Holocaust Education at empty the "toilets" with a small metal the ADL office, located mug..Prisoners were given a chunk of on the. campua of the bread in the evening and some kind of JOC. liquid in the morning. Fritzi began a career as a secretary though "Many people starved to death and she had never been there were all kinds of terrible illness- •k trained to work. Ilor es," Eva said, shaking hor head. mother would come "Many died from dysentery, cholera „, * 1 ,', 7 •. '" * ^ " • \ < and typhoid. We had lice/bedbugs- J"* Schloss points out the pmntmgs homo from work with bags of wasted paper and there were rats. They d e W d ^ h o r b r o t h e r 8 ' n o w o n e x h l b l t * our clothes once a week and we were free of itching because she didn't know how to typo, Eventually, she became a good secretary and bookkeeper and for a day and then it started all over again." Each week, the women were given a shower and supported the two of them. After graduating from the Amsterdam Lyceum, made to parade naked in. front of Dr. Mengele, the Eva became a photographer and, in 1949, she was • .infamous German doctor who "experimented" on working as an apprentice in a photographic studio women. One week Fritei waa selected and Eva was in Amsterdam, She moved to London where she separated from her mother. Eva thought her mother would he killed, hut after three months, they lived in a boarding house, and mot Zvi Schloss, an economics student from Israel who was working for were reunited. In the winter of 1944, most of the prisoners were a firm of stockbrokers while he completed his studtaken away because the German soldiers didn't ies. They were married in 1952. They have three want any survivors. The prisoners were taken on grown daughters and Jive grandchildren. Eva and "death marches" and thousands perished while Zvi live in London where she runs an antique business, marching into Germany. Fritzi married Otto Frank in 1.953 and they left "We heard that my father and brother wore taken to an Austrian camp where they died in the begin- Holland to live in Basel, Switzerland. They worked ning of May," .she said, "a couple of days before the on. the publication of Anne's dairy and visited Eva very often. Otto came to know Eva's and Zvi'.s American Army came to liberate them. "Mother and I .stayed behind and one morning we daughters as his own grandchildren, since both of woke up and the Germans were gone!" Eva remem- his daughters-Anne and MargoL-had perished in. bered. "The Russians eventually came and lib-united Bergen-BeLsen ('amp. Oll.o and l'Yit/.i shared '27 happy years until his death in 1980. Auschwitz on Jan. 27, 1944. "My story is.omi of all the Jewn who perished--of "We wore taken east and traveled for four months Hein/., my Pappy, Murgol and Anno. Krauk," *he in trucks; they were open to the cold, but we had food! I am very grateful to the Russian people who admitted. "It's not that I couldn't loll it sooner. It's shared whatever they had. The destruction and just that nobody wanted to listen until now." devastation in Russian cities was unimaginable." Eva and Fritzi went back to their apartment and tried to pick up their lives. Eva admits that every time she heard a car, she would look to see if her Matthew Ray and Shiiyna (Uimmerman) Ray father and brother wore coming home. Eventually, she realized they had been killed and would not be announce the Jan, 8 birth of (heir son, Lvn 'D-uman, coming back. They have no gravus, but their names named after hi.s great-great grandfather, Leo are engraved with hundreds of others on a memori- Ostrtwich. Leo has an older brother, Bennett, .'3 rind Mister, al monument in Amsterdam. Before leaving the house where they were staying Chloe, 2, Grandparents are Marvin and •Ictmtni1 Uoldbrrg in Soestdijk, Erich and Heinz took up painting to pus.** the time a.s they hid. With oil paints given to of Omaha, Hai'lsm and Carol l?iiuiti<>nmm <>f them by their host, they crafted 'pieces that Lenvenworth, KS, Linda Kay «i Onmlia ami Mkhad Ray of Kttno. NV. expressed thoir isolation mul hope for freedom. Great-grand part Tif.1* arc K»lv;i (tnicli and Thesis punier:; went stashed under a.floorboard in the attic and retrieved after the war. The pictures Charlotte Kraft c.f Omaha.

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Page 10

Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 14, 2003

IPlfHENiVVS The Jewish Press's Israel correspondent, Carl Alpert, was honored by the city of Haifa and awarded the title of Citizen of Merit at a public ceremony at the Haifa Auditorium, attended by close to 1000 people. He was one of 18 distinguished citizens recognized for their public service in various fields of endeavor, The award was conferred by Haifa Mayor, Amram Mitzna. The lengthy citation, reviewing Alpert's history and achievements since he and his family took up residence in Haifa in 1952, concluded as follows: "For his public activity as a journalist, his outstanding contribution in enhancing the name of Haifa and the state of Israel worldwide, and for his diligent efforts for the strengthening of the Technion at its fixed campus, the Committee recommends to the Mayor and the Municipal Council that Mr. Carl Alpert be conferred with the title Citizen of Merit." The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Phoenix has announced that B a r b a r a Chandler will join the professional staff as Director of Development and Professional Services. She comes to the position from the Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona where she was Associate Vice-president responsible for Women's Campaign and Programming, Community Leadership Development and Missions to Israel. Prior to that, Chandler was Campaign Director and Marketing Director at the Jewish Federation of Omaha. • Lance Corporal Russell W, Bennett, son of Bruce and Sandy Gordon of Omaha, recently completed infantry training at School of Infantry, Camp Pendelton, CA, He graduated Recruit Training on Get, 25 and reports to his Marine Reserve unit in Des Moines, Home Helpers, a Cincinnati, Ohio-based national company.has opened an office in Omaha. Home Helpers provides seniors with tho extra help they noed to remain independent, everything from transpoifation U> doctors' appointments and grocery •shopping to doing laundry and preparing maals. For information, call Teresa Daley and Ann Vaughn at 933-6095.

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Local yoga teacher Tippi Denenberg was mentioned in Sally McGrane's recent article in the New York Times, "Rave Yoga Mat, Will Travel." "Denenberg said that 'not one person in Omaha knew about Bikram when I opened my studio,' but that 'sure enough, in Omaha people are just like people everywhere, they know a good thing when they see it.' She added: 'Omaha is a perfect fit for yoga. Think about it. Om-a-ha!'" Denenberg runs Bikram Yoga Omaha.

Barn Girl Art Presents Paintings in JCC Gallery by DENA YOSFAN, JCC Program Associate

Beginning March 2, Suzanne Horwich will show her art in the Gallery at the Jewish Community Center. The initial inspiration for this collection comes from the peripatetic lifestyle the artist has led since leaving Omaha in 1990. "My exploration of the eastern hemisphere led me from the red deserts of Jordan, to the markets of India, to the hill stations of the Himalayas. I found myself constantly searching for the aesthetic variations from place to place and I was forever mesmerized by the brightly, colored fabrics that make up traditional dress. When I paint, memories are re-experienced in a rush of color and transcendent thought," says Horwich. The artist currently resides in Scotland, with her husband, Darren. "The recent death of my dear friend, fellow artist and mentor David Barker, caused me to search deeper into my artist mind where I found anew passionate urgency to create work that makes people feel good. If it were not for David, I believe I would not be an artist-as he started me on my journey from stretching ray first canvas to having this show here in my hometown." Using simple abstraction it has been a quest of Horwich as an artist to capture the spirit of the world and friendship as she has experienced it. Suzanne Horwieh will have- hor opening reception on Sunday, March 2, 1-5 p.m. at the JCC. The show runs thru March 30, A percentage of proceeds will be donated to the David Barker Memorial Fund for the arts.

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j lutti rifwnlinitulii pivtlKHiiinitpwdw nlaHi n / t o y i M f hffeyttlw'th'fi'it \ M»uJ M i ' ^utlia ?\ u i , , U t tfo Is' ' M i I 0 1 . t nf«j. iiiii i t * ' l i t w i n N i a w n a i f i t ) MnWnwWmciiM tinjM.n i i y n t i f c M t i i i i M i l i l i i f c l Jinn ml I H ' I I ' I M - * diw mi C i n i n M u ! i i p l H H I V H I F I I (>•>! t «i il ' f>tj h > ([1/ I I H i " i i ' ' d l i i . m l u<i 1;i)>1U,ii#.il;t' t w i P * k r t i > t i u i i K W V f l v t ' H VIKkHiriMruminidiiifi'Mim I I 1 ' I M V "tl JIUMIPII lui l»"n l i h i u « I H | > • iuj i , urn 1'ui 11 p|; !lt i r J K I IN '«p 'n 111 « l ( i i n ' ] i j ' I ' l ^ t i m Ufiirn't'i<.t«»i l i l i y w V "' l i m l y l i f i l i m j i i u ' v i l i l l 1 i H / i H I n ' m irtimwn n u n l u n n l d 1 o n l . h i l r'jilti in,Blur ill • t ^ r a w m i i Nitrf iinnijiui,.

BREADBREAKERS Sen. Chuck Hagel, United States Senator from Nebraska, will speak at Breadbreakers Wednesday, Feb. 19, noon, at the Park Inn Regency, according to Rich Juro, February Chairman. Sen. Hagel will speak about current events and take questions from the floor. Cost is $9 for lunch and $2 for beverage service only. Breadbreakers is open to the community. 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.in. Following lunch at noon, find out how to save money on your medications by 15-70%. Geoffrey H. Wertheim from AmeriSave will inform members on the benefits of their prescription discount program. For transportation call Dee Dee at 330-4272. Make reservations with Maggie Conti at 3346521. Deadline for Bluffs Run Casino on Feb. 27 is Feb. 20; deadline for Music of The Rat Pack with Michael Walker on Feb. 24 is Feb. 17. LOMIR REDN YIDDISH The Yiddish Conversation Group will meet on Thursday from 1-3 p.m. at the JCC. Call Anno. Skolkin for information at 343-1638. WALK-IN, DROP-IN Members will meet at the JCC on Thursday. Exercise and bingo begin at 10 a.m. Enjoy a Greek lunch at 11:15 a.m. in the social hall At noon, watch My Big Fat Greek Wedding in the Blumkin Home auditorium. Popcorn will be served. For transportation call Maggie Conti at 334-6521. VISIONS Join us for L'Chaim, with Jim Elsberry and the MasterSingers on Sunday, Feb. 28 at 2:30 p.m. at Millard West High School. Dinner follows at Tony Roma's. A special price for Visions members of $25.25 per person includes show, dinner, coffee, tea, tax and tip. Send reservations to: Fred and Sandy Bromley, 13419 Marinda St., Omaha, N3S 68144. Deadline is Feb. 17. Get ready to rock n' roll with The Marvelous Wonderettes at the Fonda-McGuire Series at tho Omaha Community Playhouse, Sunday, March 23, 2 p.m. Coat is $19.26 per person. Dinner on your own follows the show at the Olivo Garden. Send reservations to: Ethel Gold«ton at 10530 Pacific #104, Omaha, NE 68114. Please indicate on reservation form if you are a Fonda-McGuiro member and if you plan to join us for dinner. Deadline in March 3. Looking for a tasteful way to spend your lunchtimo? See Appetite for Art! Featured artwork is Galaxy by Jackson Pollock on Tuesday, May 27. Cost is $15 per person and includes lunch and lecture. Lunch begins at noon and lecture at 1:15 p.m. Send reservations to Fred and Sandy Bromley. Deadline is March 4. Membership dues to Visions for 2003 are due. Please mail your $5 check to Gilda Pieck, 6955 Cuming, Omaha, NE 68132, Deadline is March 1. Make all chocks for Visions programs payable to Jewish Senior Services. OMAHA CENTER FOR TORAH LEARNING Rabbi Aryeh Blum leads a parasha shiur tit tho OCTL House, 1313 No. 58 St.', Saturday, Feb. 15, 4:20 p.m. Torah Tota is Monday, Feb. 17, 9:30 a.m. with Shari Blum; Time for Talmud with Rabbi Blum is at 7 p.m.; learn at the Beis MIdrash, Tuesday, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m.; The Wednesday Women's Class is Feb. 19, 7:30 p.in.-the topic is Jewish Parenting, all at the OCTL house. Join OCTL for the weekly discussion of the Torah portion at Lunch 'n Learn, Wednesday, Feb. 19, noon, at the Kripke Jewish Federation Library; the Wednesday Teen Class meets at 7:30 p.m. at tho home of Brooke Shrago, 805 So. 120 Ave. Don't know what a Kumsitz is? Find out on Saturday evening, Feb. 22, 8 p.m. at the OCTL House. And make your reservation for diner for our iinst OO'fL Purira Seudah, Tuesday, March IB, 5 p,m. For more information about OCTL or to schedule one-on-one or .small group learning, cull Rabbi Blum at 320-8050.

February 14, 2008 Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

by BERT LEWIS

Page 11

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Okay, here's another item for your "now I've heard of everything" file. You've probably read about the newest thing in hamburger to be found in New York. In case you haven't, let me fill you in. According to my newspapers, as well as tv feature stories, it's possible to purchase a hamburger, complete with the trimmings, for $41 in the city known as the Big Apple. Personally, I think they ought to change that to the Big Burger. What's it all about, and are they really selling hamburgers for $41? Well, it's about a place that serves meat called Kobe beef, which comes from Japan. The animals from which this meat comes, are very special creatures, at least in life. They are fed special diets which, if memory serves, includes beer. In addition, they are massaged regularly, so that the meat will be tender and succulent. Personally, I've never tasted this famous Kobe beef, so I can't tell you whether it's particularly wonderful, but I have it on good authority that it's worth all that it costs. I can't even imagine buying a sandwich that costs $41, but the proprietor of that fancy place says that they go like hotcakcs. Come to think of it, I know of lots of wonderful food items that ought to fetch handsome prices...items that aren't found in every corner deli, for example. Let's say you could go into a newly opened store and order a home-made bowl of mushroom barky soup

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that tastes exactly like the kind your mom made? How much would you be willing to pay for it? Or better yet, how about that marvelous brisket with, potato latkes like your Bubie made? Wouldn't you gladly hand over your credit card and not even ask how much it cost?Or her kasha and varnishkas maybe-could you put a price on that? The more I think about it, the more I realize that to the person who appreciates it, $41 isn't too much for a hamburger, just as maybe 50 bucks wouldn't seem exorbitant to the guy who hasn't tasted kasha since Ms bar mitzvah. On the other hand, a part of me knows you'd have to be nuts to pay such prices for those food items. So what do you think? I really don't know if there's an answer to this, or if anybody even cares. Nor do I know if all these foods are worth those kinds of dollars. But it's nice to have an excuse to think back and remember the way the house smeiled when those ethnic favorites were being cooked. Remember? And you know what? I don't have any idea how a hamburger made from Kobe beef smells, but I'll bet it can't hold a candle to the aroma that comes from a tsimmis made with sweet potatoes and prunes. Maybe it all comes down to one thing: whatever makes you happy, whether it a meat from Japan or fried matza from your mom's kitchen. Be my guest.

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Jewish Press, Omaha, NE

February 14,2003

Panel to Discuss Health Care Cost Crisis

Beth El Women Form Rosh Hodesh Group by OZZIE NOGG • Inspired by the ancient tradition that designates the New Moon as a special festival for women, Beth El Synagogue recently formed a Rosh Hodesh group. Meetings will be held in private homes at the first of each Hebrew month and. according to Rosh Hodesh member Joanie Jacobson, "will appeal to all women who are looking for personal, spiritual or educational growth and enlightenment." Kathy Schmitt, Beth El's Program Director added, "Starting a Rosh Hodesh group has been a dream of mine for a long time. I'm happy and thankful that Joanie so enthusiastically arranged the first planning meeting. Now that the program is up and running, we invite all women who are interested to join!" Each monthly session will be led by a different team of two women who will decide the subject matter and format. Jacobson described the sessions as a time for Beth El women to come together "to share, learn, pray, grow, ask questions, get answers, sing, dance, cook, eat, give, receive, create, bond, agree, object, search, meditate, ponder, write, advocate, pause, reflect, change, enjoy and laugh—all to renew their strength, knowledge, faith and hopes for the month to come." The first Beth El Rosh Hodesh get together — marking the new moon of ,Adar II—is scheduled for Monday,

by Claudia Sherman.

March 3, 7:30 p.m. Hosted by Jill Belmont and Susi Frydman Levin at the Belmont residence, 1633 So. 154 St., the session's theme will be: uDoes Destiny Control Our Lives or Do We Control Our Destiny?" "We'll look at the Purim story and examine how Queen Esther's actions affected her destiny," Belmont said. "Well also discuss the ways in which we, as women, determine the direction of our lives." Jacobson said she hopes that each month, the Rosh Hodesh. group will offer opportunities for meaningful reflection for its members. "Every new month brings new energy and optimism,3 Jacobson said. "We hope to make it a time of enrichments celebration and renewal for all the women at Beth EL" Future meeting dates and hostesses are: Wednesday, April 2, Joanie Jacobson and Patty Nogg; Thursday, May 1, Evie Mitchell and Helen Epstein; Saturday, May 31, Dinah Raful and Carole Greenberg; Sunday, J u n e 29, Marti-Rosen Athertoa and Gloria Kaslow; Tuesday, J u l y 29*, Eadie Tsabari and Rhonda SafersteinHansen. Locations of these meetings will be announced at a later date. Beth El's Rosh Hodesh program is offered free of charge. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call Dinah Raful, 493-1436 or Kathy Schmitt at Beth El, 492-8550.

Temple Israel Communications Coordinator When Mrs. Rabinowitz (whose name has been changed as a matter of privacy) was discharged from the hospital last week, the bill for'prescription drugs she needed to take home came to more fiian $500. Medicare didn't pay and she had no other health insurance. Fortunately for Rabinowiiz, the outof-pocket cost- was within her reach, and her children were ready and able to help. But what if she had bees of more limited means and was forced to choose between medicine and rent or food? What if she was a young motiher, or a child with a life-fereateniag illness, or a new immigrant? Temple Israel's Social Justice Committee will sponsor an education forum on "Diagnosis: Crisis in Health Care** on Sunday, Feb. 23,10 ajn, in the Milder Center at Temple. You've read the headlines; "Health Care Costs Continue to Escalate," "Doctors Protest Sising Malpractice Costs." The number of uninsured and underinsared is expected to grow daring the current economic downturn. In Lincoln and in other state capitals, cuts in health care coverage loom in anticipation of farther budget woes. "Affordable, quality health care from cradle to grave must be put back within our reach," stated Dr. Magda G. Peck, who chairs the Social Justice Committee. "Being able to get the health care we need when we need it

most is as basic as having shelter and food and education. Even." Jew must be informed about this critical issue to safeguard ourselves and our families...and the neighbors aad communities all around us. Health care is a matter of social justice," she said. I3fe. Peek is a professor of Pediatrics and Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center ILWMC) and director of the UNMC/UNGmaha graduate program in Public Health. She is also CEO/lxecutive Director of CitfMatCH which addresses maternal and child health ia 200 U.S. cities. She will be joined by Keith J. Mueller, Ph.D., section head for Health Services Beseareh and Rural Health Policy which includes the Rural Policy Research Institute at •UNMC; Darlene Golbitz, R.K., who has worked at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home for 20 years and earned a gerontology certificate at the University of Nebraska at Omaha; and Staeie Bieicfaer, M.D., a pediatrician hi Lincoln who has been involved in the public policy arena as a member of the Partnership Advisory , Council, the task-force on Medicaid Reform, and is the chair of the legislative committee of the Nebraska Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She and Dr. Peck are members of Temple Israel. The community is invited to attend this conversation about assuring access to health care in Nebraska.

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