August 2002
Information is the key reason most people go online. Getting the information once you are online is something else. Project Otzma has done an excellent job in presenting their program in a clear manner. The side links keep you on the right track so that you never get lost. Having a place for Alumni is an important addition which is lacking on most Israel program sites. Even if you are not planning to join the program, it's a worthwhile visit.
http://www.sheldonoberman.com/index.shtml
Summer is a great time to do something you always wished to - like writing that novel. As someone who can paper his wall with rejection notices, I recommend this site, especially the page for writer. Visiting the site you will notice all the other awards Oberman has received. He writes with a sense of humor and even if you never thought about writing - who knows you just may get the bug.
http://www.geocities.com/ShiriNegari
I received an email asking me to visit this site from Shiri's family. I ended up spending over a half hour looking over each of the pictures and even listing to her sing. I never had the honor of knowing Shiri, but now even a few days after I was on the site, her face, the hand written letter, all remain with me. I keep thinking what a loss, what a loss. My prayers and thoughts are with them - visit.
"Ima, I'm bored!", an expression abounding during the hot summer months. Have your kids take a look at BabagaNewz - a great space for Jewish kids on the web. BabagaNewz is an educational classroom magazine geared toward Jewish middle school students in congregational schools and Hebrew day schools. The website explores topics covered in the magazine along with online forums, polling, pen pals, and contests. Jewish educational games, a.k.a "Fun Stuff" on this site provide an engaging stopover.
http://www.onlysimchas.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/Home.htm
Mazal Tov! The wedding season is now at its height. If you've missed a simcha - wedding, engagement, bar/bat mitzvah, etc., or perhaps you didn't quite make it on the invitation list, you might be able to view the event online at OnlySimchas.com. Indeed a joyous website. It gives family and friends the vicarious thrill of joining together in celebration through the magic of digital photography. I was pleased to see "Aliyah" as a category.