JFGI Annual Meeting p. 7
Meet our Shaliach! p. 6
PJ Library Daddy and Me p. 9
Beth El Welcomes New Rabbi p. 13
Hebrew Academy Back-toSchool Barbecue p. 15
JFGI News September 2013
Volume 52, No. 4
In This Issue
Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 362 Indianapolis, IN
Campaign 2-3 Endowment 2-4 YLD 5 Partnership 6 Other JFGI 7-8 PJ Library 9 Mothers Circle 9 Reuben Center 10 BJE 10 JCC 11 JCRC 12 Hooverwood 13 Community News 13-14 Jewish Studies 15 HHAI 15 Campaign 16
JFGI Welcomes Debra Barton Grant, New Executive Vice President The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis is excited to welcome Debra Barton Grant to Indianapolis and our Federation as our new Executive Vice President. A native Hoosier from South Bend, Debby served as the Executive Vice President of the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley in South Bend from 2004 to 2013. Debby’s tenure there was one of growth and community-building. She was very involved in donor cultivation and stewardship, as well as working to grow the Federation endowment. As Executive Vice President she oversaw a wide range of programming including Jewish cultural and holiday events, adult education series, senior lunches, Holocaust education and commemoration, trips to Israel, inter-religious dialogue and collaborative Israel solidarity programs. The St. Joseph Valley Federation is also a partner with Indianapolis and other communities in the Israel Partnership2Gether efforts connecting member communities with partnership areas in Israel. Debby has a history of Jewish communal work, including professional roles at the Community Foundation for Jewish Education of Metropolitan Chicago, Birthright Israel, the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. She received her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and her master’s degree in social work with a joint master’s in Jewish communal service from the University of Michigan. Debby is a recipient of the JFNA Mandel Center’s FEREP Scholarship (Federation Executive Recruitment and Education Program).
Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis 6705 Hoover Road Indianapolis, IN 46260-4120
Photo by Faith Cohen
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One of Debby’s many strengths is her positive outlook on any situation. As one of her former staff members noted, “Debby doesn’t see the glass half full; to her, the glass is overflowing.“ She made a positive impact on the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley and in the community there, and is eager to do the same here at JFGI and in the Indianapolis community. Indianapolis will present new opportunities and challenges, and Debby looks forward to taking them on and to joining our community. She and her family, husband Scott and three boys, Jonah, 11 Benjamin, 8, and Sammy, 4, are settling into life in Indianapolis and are looking forward to starting this new chapter with us.
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Endowment
Endowment
The Power of One photos by Faith Cohen On August 25, JFGI donors gathered at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis to celebrate the “Power of One”— the power of each individual to make a difference in the comNonie Vonnegut-Gabovitch, Margo Fox and David Vonnegut-Gabovitch munity. We recognized donors to the Federation Annual Campaign and the Endowment Fund for the impact of their individual commitments to the Jewish community. This special evening began with CEO of the Children’s Museum Jeff Patchen welcoming everyone to the museum. Federation and Children’s Museum donors, Dorit and Gerald Paul and John Abrams spoke about the Anne Frank Peace Park and the new chestnut tree sapling. In Sally Cotler, Karen Cohen the spring of 2013 the Children’s and Jack Cotler Museum was chosen as the first U.S. location to plant a sapling from the famous chestnut tree that stood by the Anne Frank home in Amsterdam. Our guest speaker, educator Linda Hooper, talked about her motivation and experiences initiating an extraordinary project to teach students about the lives and experiences of other groups of people in different time periods and cultures. In order to understand the magnitude of six million Holocaust victims, Whitwell, Tennessee middle school students collected paper clips from around the world. In the 15 years since the program began, the Paper Clip Project has demonstrated the importance of learning from the past “so that we do not forget nor repeat our mistakes.” Linda reminded everyone about choices and each individual’s ability to create positive change in the world. One of the evening’s high points were the remarks by our new Federation Executive Vice President, Debby Barton Grant. She spoke of her excitement and enthusiasm for this Nancy Bell and new position and working with our community in going from Barb Bailie strength to strength. 2014 Annual Campaign co-chair Offer Korin encouraged everyone to help our community today through the Annual Campaign and ensure tomorrow by setting up endowments to help future generations. His speech reflected the commitment of him and fellow 2014 Annual Campaign co-chairs Les Brail and Michele Korin and Endowment co-chairs Claudette Einhorn and Barbara Leventhal. Offer’s message clearly worked, as most donors who made a pledge that evening increased their 2014 pledges, getting the campaign off to a Elliot Gold, Roy Swisa and great start. Linda Gold
JFGI News
Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis, Inc., and in cooperation with its constituent agencies: Jewish Community Center Association, Bureau of Jewish Education, Jewish Community Relations Council, The Albert & Sara Reuben Senior and Community Resource Center and Hooverwood.
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Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis, Inc. Samuel Kroot Community Services Office 6705 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260-4120 Phone: 317.726.5450 • Fax: 317.205.0307 • www.JFGI.org Debra Barton Grant, Executive Vice President Paul A. Kraft, President Julia Goodman, Marketing Director and Editor
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Annual Campaign
Campaign
Dorit and Gerald Paul
Les Brail, John Abrams and Jeff Patchen
Judi Silverman Lewis and David Lewis
Lindsey Mintz and Barbara Alpert
Elaine Levinson, Steve Russell and Livia Russell
Barb Levy, Stanley Talesnick and Ruth Feinberg Ernie Lorch and Elaine Klineman
Irina Brodskiy, Marilyn Smith, Stanley Talesnick, Ruth Feinberg, Barb Bailie and Bebe Weinstein
Dick Leventhal, Les Brail, Gigi Marks Felsher, Offer Korin, Michelle Korin and Chuck Cohen
Sandi Marks, Shirley Backer and Debbie Milkey Bebe Weinstein and Estelle Nelson
Linda Hooper and Barb and Dick Leventhal
Gerald Paul, Carolyn Leeds and Linda Hooper Mark Penner, Phillip Schlossberg, Rabbi Paula Winnig, Debby Barton Grant, Ira Jaffee, Lindsey Mintz and Lori Moss
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Endowment
Endowment
The Impact of Endowments in 2012 As summer has ended, we turn our focus to the start of the school year and the beginning of the Jewish New Year — the end of one phase of our life and the beginning of another. It is a good time to assess what has been accomplished and what challenges we face, and to remember friends and family who have left us an enduring legacy of caring and concern for our fellow Jews. The Talmudic saying “As my ancestors planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those that come after me” is the guiding principle of the enduring dedication of the Endowment program of the Indianapolis Jewish community. In the field of endowments and planned giving, although the focus is primarily on the future, it is also on today. Our Federation Endowment program is committed to providing permanent financial resources to strengthen and build our community so that from generation to generation we will be available to respond to people in crisis, develop innovative responses to issues and help fund programs and services. Our program enables donors to perpetuate their philanthropic interests and to make an impact on the quality of our communal life in a number of areas. We have included in this issue of the paper the 2012 Endowment Annual Report, which provides a review of our activities. Here are a few snapshots of the ways endowments are making a difference.
Educating the Future Grants from Federation endowment funds enable students to gain a college education and have transformative Jewish camping and Israel experiences.
Building community resources From floods to fires to other disasters, unrestricted endowment funds help us to respond to the immediate and long term needs of the community.
Next Gen Engagement Our children and grandchildren are the future. Endowments enable us to offer leadership development programs and social and educational events and provide hands-on experiences that allow our young people to connect their values of Tikun Olam to our community.
You and your family can be a part of these enduring snapshots of Jewish life by creating an endowment. Our Endowment staff is available to assist you in creating your personal Jewish legacy. Please call 317.726.5450.
Keep up with JFGI on the Web Caring for the Vulnerable Whether it is feeding the hungry through Popsie’s Pantry or the weekly subsidized senior lunches or offering an opportunity to avoid social isolation, endowment grants help meet needs with compassion and dignity.
Get current news, information about programs and initiatives, and photos and recaps of events via our monthly e-newsletter, Facebook and Twitter. If you don’t receive the JFGI e-newsletter, subscribe by calling the Federation office at 317.726.5450 or email marketing@JFGI.org. Find plenty of information about the Federation and the Indianapolis Jewish community on our website, www.JFGI.org.
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Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis JFGI Young Leadership Division JFGI Shaliach Program
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Follow Us on Twitter! @JFGIndy @JFGIYLD
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Symphony on Prairie the
YLD
Young Leadership Division
Young Leadership Division Fun in the Sun! YLD had a busy summer paddling, sharing havdalah, enjoying Indiana’s wine country and collecting school supplies and food for Popsie’s Pantry. Mikel Newman, Jared Halper, Alyssa Halper, John Wertz, Elizabeth Wertz, Katherine Voskoboynik and Jason Schwartz
Summer P and Havodol Par ty alah
Marilyn Weiss, Natalie Weiss and Inessa Levitt DePaula
Mia Halpern and Shana Honigberg
Jose Suriel, Gustavo DePaula and John Zukin
Elyse Handel, Stacy Smoler and Anna Schottenstein
Andrew Doehrman, Josh Klaben-Finegold, Matt Tobe, Deb Hoffman, Laurence Bolotin, Anna Modansky and Matthew Modansky
Nik Sambourskiy, Jenny Perelmuter, Victoria Nazarov and Mike Mestetsky
Inna Kolesnikova-Shmukler and Eddie Shmukler
Jews in Ca n
oes
Mallow R Wine Tasun Winer y ting and Picnic Alex Fox, Matt Cohen, Shannon Cohen and Carli Bolotin
Left to right back: Eric Grabovsky, Josh Kitterman, Andrew Doehrman, Matthew Pritzker, Joel Godett, Jacob Gorden, Danny Ekhaus. Front: Ericka Nelson, Mary Gorden, Inessa Levitt DePaula, Jen Serrat, Jose Suriel, Carrie Grass and Justin Steinberg
Josh Kitterman and Matthew Prizkter
Joel Godett, Andrew Doehrman and Danny Ekhaus
Jose Suriel, Carrie Grass and Justin Steinberg
Save the Dates Friday, October 4: Shabbat Dinner at Goldman Union Camp Institute Sunday, October 13: Horseback Riding and Picnic at Fort Harrison RSVP on our website, www.JFGI.org. Questions? Contact Inna, YLD Director, at YLD@JFGI.org.
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Left to right back: Alex Fox, Jacob Gorden, Laurence Bolotin, Matt Tobe, Matthew Modansky, Eddie Shmukler, Anna Modansky, Josh Klaben-Finegold, Matthew Pritzker, Matt Cohen, Shannon Cohen and Inna Kolesnikova-Shmukler. Front: Deb Hoffman, Mary Gorden and Carli Bolotin.
This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support all Young Leadership Programs.
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Israeli Shaliach
Emissary
A Letter From Our New Israeli Shaliach
Photo by Faith Cohen
Late at night, on July 30, 1989, I was born with wide open eyes unlike any other ordinary baby. That was the main reason that my parents named me רואי (Roh-ee). In Hebrew it means ‘prophet,’ the one that has the ability to foresee. In my family we are four brothers. Amit is the youngest, just turning 13. He celebrates his bar mitzvah this year. Dor is 15 years old and starting his first steps in high school majoring in music and physics. Tomer will turn 21 years old in August. He will be released from the army and start to work in agriculture In the Arava. I’m the firstborn of my family. Since I was a child I had two main hobbies. The first is water sports, such as swimming and scuba diving. My first underwater encounter was when I was in fourth grade in the Dolphins Reefs at the Red Sea. My second main thing was my youth movement HaNoar HaOved VeHalomed; I was a counselor for four years. One of the activities as a counselor that I am most proud of was at the summer of 2006 during the Second Lebanon War. We established an ad-hoc summer camp for the kids from the confrontation lines in the north and south of Israel. After I graduated high school with history and physics majors, I decided to do a gap year and postpone my army service. I participated in two programs, The Amichai Academy for Social Leadership and Zionism and Ein Prat — The Academy for Leadership. In that program I lived with 30 people of my age from all over Israel. The group was comprised of men and women of a varying range of religious Jewish beliefs, political views and socio-economic backgrounds. Together we studied about Jewish history, the different denominations in the Jewish world and a variety of other subjects. As a group we did volunteering activities, such as renovating the homes of elderly people in Jerusalem and establishing day camps at Sderot in their shelters during Operation Cast Lead. In spring 2009, three days after Passover, I volunteered to the Naval Officer course. After a year I moved to the 916 Squadron. I was a Chief Engineer in the Dvora MK3 and Shaldag Class ships, fast attack naval vessels. After that I was promoted to NCO Instructor at my squadron. My last job was to be the Instructor of Navy Chief Engineers course. During my service I participated in a Birthright trip. It was my first encounter with young American Jewish adults. These encounters changed my point of view and forged the decision to be an Emissary of the Jewish Agency. I am more than thrilled to get to know your great community and to be a part of it. Please feel free to contact me at shaliach@JFGI.org or 317.800.9350.
P2G
Israel Partnership2Gether
Tzofim Friendship Caravan Performs in Indianapolis
On Tuesday, June 18 the Tzofim Friendship Caravan put on two energetic performances, one for campers at the JCC and one for the whole community. The Caravan, a group of Israeli teenagers, crisscrosses North America each summer as emissaries, sharing their lives in Israel through song, dance and story in English, Hebrew and Yiddish.
Roy Swisa
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This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support Israel Programs in Indianapolis.
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JFGI 2013 Annual Meeting Honors Community Leaders On Wednesday, June 19, the Federation Annual Meeting brought together many community members to honor Michael Papo, retiring Executive Vice President and welcome new Board and Executive Committee members. President Paul Kraft thanked Michael for his 12 years of service to the Indianapolis Jewish community and presented him with a gift from the Board. There was a reception in honor of Michael following the meeting. Awards were presented to several individuals and groups for their service to the com- JFGI staff and Michael Papo munity. • The Mark Pescovitz Award was given to Ellen Voskoboynik for outstanding service to the Jewish or general community by a high school junior or senior. • Outgoing agency Presidents Todd Maurer, JCRC and Sid Laikin, Hooverwood were honored. • 2012 Campaign Chairs Benton Marks and Zeff Weiss were recognized. • Chuck Cohen received the Kehilla Award for outstanding service to the Jewish community. • The L.L. Goodman Leadership Award was presented to Megan Maurer and Matt Tobe. • Darlene Monninger received the Frank Newman Award for Professional Excellence. • The Melvin Simon Tikkun Olam Award was given to the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation for its role in the Interfaith Hospitality Network. • The Domont Award for the Enhancement of Jewish Life was given to the Indianapolis Jewish Community Relations Council, the Bureau of Jewish Education, the Hasten Hebrew Academy, the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Indiana Holiday Commission for their work in sponsoring the state of Indiana Annual Holocaust Day of Remembrance. In his final remarks, Michael Papo noted that with our solid 107 year history, JFGI is well situated to face upcoming challenges. We are ready and looking forward to the year ahead.
Zeff Weiss and Paul Kraft
Todd Maurer and Paul Kraft
Chuck Cohen and Dave Kleinman David Sklar, Todd Maurer, Lindsey Mintz, members of the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Indiana Holiday Commission, Mark Roger, Rabbi Paula Winnig, Miles Roger, Offer Korin, Maya Shmoel and Miriam Gettinger
Nancy Reiter and Darlene Monninger
Ellen Voskoboynik and Aliza Pescovitz Malouf
Save the Date: Ninth Annual Adopt-A-Family Help local Jewish families in need have a Happy Chanukah this season. Community-Wide Event Sunday, November 24 Breakfast and shopping at 9:30 a.m. Lunch and wrapping at 12:00 p.m.
Greg Maurer and Matt Tobe
Greg and Megan Maurer
Can’t join us November 24? Participate during the whole month of November! We will be collecting gifts and gift cards throughout the month. Email Inna at YLD@ JFGI.org to get a family's wish list or with any questions.
Interfaith Hospitality Network committee, Jerry Ancel, Mitchell Katz, Barbara Levy, Cantor Janice Roger and Rabbi Brett Krichiver
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Samuel Kroot Summer Interns Say Good-bye JCRC Intern, Julia I am a senior at IU majoring in econmics and political science. This summer I interned at the JCRC! I helped on a variety of projects throughout the summer. I worked on new JCRC programs concerning Israel, the Interfaith IFTAR, researching legislative policies concerning the JCRC and a bunch of other different tasks. I got a chance to work closely with Lindsey Mintz, Executive Vice President, and David Sklar, Director of Government Affairs, and meet all of the other Jewish agency directors. This summer was great, and I really enjoyed working at the JCRC. - Julia Friedman
JCC Intern, Sam After spending so many hours playing basketball, swimming and being involved at the JCC, I was thrilled to receive the Samuel Kroot Internship. This opportunity allowed me to spend a couple months working for the place where I spent so many of my growing up years. Coming into work every day, I saw familiar people doing their everyday work that had always been behind the scenes until now. I got the chance to understand just how many important roles exist to keep the JCC and the greater Jewish community of Indianapolis running like a well-oiled machine. The overall experience helped me feel good about the work I was doing for the Jewish community. Whether it is a job or as a volunteer, it's no secret that for the rest of my life I will be involved in the Jewish community in which I live in some capacity. - Sam Katz
JFGI I amJFGI I amJFGI
I am
Name: Marilyn Weiss
Position/Employer: Cultural Chair Young Leadership and chemistry teacher How long and in what ways have you been involved with JFGI? This summer marks my third anniversary of becoming involved with JFGI. I still recall my first event with Young Leadership. I had just moved to Indianapolis and my now husband asked me if I would like to see an Israeli comedian in Broad Ripple with a group of young Jewish leaders in the community. Not knowing what to expect, I said, “Sure.” Beginning with that first event, we were hooked. We attended several more YLD events during my first few months in Indianapolis. In November, I was asked to join the YLD Social Committee to plan Jegas. It was a treat to meet new people and to help them see ways in which they could become involved with Federation. After my first year with Young Leadership, I was asked to chair the Cultural Committee. We planned Havdalah ceremonies, Shabbat dinners at GUCI and cooking sessions at the BJE. I am excited for future cultural events with YLD, and will also participate in the Annual Campaign’s Super Sunday for the third time this year. Why did you get involved with Federation? Before moving to Indianapolis, I lived in Madison, Wisconsin, where I earned my master’s degree in chemistry. In Madison attending Hillel with a group of graduate students and local professionals was important to me. Before graduate school, I went to Hillel each week at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When I relocated, it was only natural that I wanted to find a group of young Jewish adults who I could share holidays and culture with throughout the year. A Million Reasons
We Want to Hear From You! At JFGI, we try to keep our records as up-to-date as possible, in order to let you know of upcoming programs and events. But sometimes people move, change their cell phone numbers or email address. Please let us know of any changes in your contact information by emailing us at updates@JFGI.org. Thanks!
Need Extras of the JFGI News?
An elderly man living alone began falling and was embarrassed to tell his children and grandchildren, fearing they would make him move out of his house. After getting together for dinner one night his granddaughter saw the bruises on his face and asked him what happened. Reluctantly, he admitted to his falling and begged her not to make him move. She agreed, not wanting him to have to leave his condo, but wanting him to be safe. She called The Reuben Center to find out what resources were available to her grandfather. Today, Mr. C. is still in his condo, uses a personal emergency response button in case he falls to get medical care and a shower chair and grab bars were installed in his bathroom and shower. Mr. C. is happy to be safe in his home and his granddaughter is happy he is there, too!
Have you or a family member been in a recent issue of the JFGI News and you’d like extra copies? The Federation has archives of past issues. Stop by the Federation offices and see Julia Goodman to get your extra copies to share with friends and family.
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PJ Library of Greater Indianapolis PJ Daddy and Me Indians Game The summer June sun didn't stop over 40 attendees from watching the Indianapolis Indians take on the Charlotte Knights at our first PJ Daddy and Me program. Kids enjoyed free hot dogs, refreshments and chips and a good day out at the ballpark!
PJ Library PJ Library Play Dates at the Bureau of Jewish Education PJ Play Dates offer a wonderful and intimate atmosphere for Jewish families with young children ages newborn-24 months to meet one other. Older siblings are welcome to attend. At our July 9 play date, Ashley Flaumenhaft, certified musical therapist, led musical activities with exercises, songs and instruments. Reading PJ Library books and enjoying snacks are also staples at our play dates. If you are interested in attending a future play date, email Inna, PJ Library Program Coordinator, at pjlibrary@JFGI.org.
Save the Dates Saturday, October 5: Fall Kick-Off Family Shabbat Pitch-In Picnic at Holliday Park with music, crafts and story time, 12:00-2:00 p.m. To RSVP go to www.JFGI.org. Tuesday, November 5: Fourth annual Story Time with Bubbe and Zayde with the Ann Katz Festival of Books, 12:00 p.m. Sunday, November 17: BJE and PJ Library Chanukah Celebration Would you like more information or have questions about the PJ Library? Email Inna at pjlibrary@JFGI.org. The PJ Library is an initiative of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation and is supported locally by the Alan and Linda Cohen family and JFGI.
Mother’s Circle
Interfaith The Mother’s Circle of Greater Indianapolis is a free program of education and support for mothers of different faiths who are raising Jewish children. We provide a warm and welcoming environment that encourages mothers to talk with one another and navigate life as a mother in a Jewish family. If you or someone you love has been looking for an introduction to Jewish practices and ethics, resources, hands-on education and a connection to Jewish community in a relaxed and comfortable setting, join the Mothers Circle. We’ll follow a curriculum designed by the Jewish Outreach Institute and talk about Jewish parenting, imparting values, celebrating holidays, the Jewish life cycle and so much more. A new class is starting after the High Holidays! For more information or to enroll, contact Patti Freeman Dorson at 317.441.5259 or themotherscircle@comcast.net.
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The Reuben Center
ASRSCRC
Shared Affordable Senior Home Ribbon Cutting On Wednesday, August 28 Elder-Friendly Communities, the Crooked Creek Community Development Corporation, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the City of Indianapolis held a ribbon cutting for our new shared affordable senior home on Alimingo Drive. This home, with ADA and universal design elements incorporated throughout, is the first of its kind in the entire state. Thanks to the planning committee, which included CICOA Aging and In-Home Solutions, AARP Indiana, the CDC and Elder-Friendly Communities for their enthusiastic support. Thanks to Leon Mordoh, David and Lael George, Angela Mansfield, Alicia Vaughn, Ron and Sue Popp, the CDC and American Senior Communities for your generous donations to help us purchase items for the house. Applicants interested in living on Alimingo Drive must be 60 or older, independent and looking for a welcoming place to call home with three roommates. The home sits in the middle of our Aging in Place catchment area. For more information please contact Ann Allen, 317.259.6817 or aallen@JFGI.org, or Cindy Wides, 317.259.8048 or cwides@JFGI.org.
Funding an Aging in Place Program: We Choose Home Imagine leaving your home, the one you’ve lived in your entire life. Odds are you or someone dear to your heart is nearing this transition. You have the chance to provide the resources to help an older adult remain safely and securely in the comfort of his or her own home through the Aging in Place program of the Reuben Resource Center. A $1,000 donation will provide 365 days of access to: Aging in Place membership; handrails, grab bars, and ramps; emergency response button; adult day care; caregiver respite services; medical and non-medical in-home assistance; rides to the doctor and grocery; yard work and snow removal assistance; fitness programs; individual supportive counseling; and socialization through seminars, cultural trips and activities. For more information or to donate, please contact Ann Allen at 317.259.6817 or aallen@JFGI.org or Cindy Wides at 317.259.8048 or cwides@JFGI.org. Save the Date: Parents Night Out Saturday, October 12 6:00-10:00 p.m. For children with special needs and their siblings (ages 4–11).Register by October 4 with Julie Sondhelm at 317.259.6822, extention 6 or jsondhelm@JFGI. org. $5 per child. Space is limited. 3:1 ratio, no walk-ins accepted.
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This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support programs and services to the elderly and those in need.
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BJE
Bureau of Jewish Education
BJE Fun Night at Latitude 39 Sunday, October 27 4:00-8:00 p.m. Latitude 39 Join the BJE for a night of fun! Watch the Indianapolis premiere of Hava Nagila (The Movie), and enjoy dinner, bingo and other games. Hava Nagila (The Movie) tells the story of the classic Jewish tradition and how it has become part of American culture. Registration is $36 per person. To register, please visit the BJE website, www.BJEindy.org. BJE Hebrew Classes — Not Just for Kids Are you over the age of 12 and need to brush up on your Hebrew? Never learned Hebrew but always wanted to? The BJE offers Hebrew classes for students of all ages and all ability levels. The BJE is also able to offer online classes or individual tutoring. Full details and schedules are available online at www.BJEindy.org or by calling the BJE office at 317.255.3124. A Wonderful Summer of Learning Throughout the month of July, the Bureau of Jewish Education worked in cooperation with local organizations to provide a series of four adult learning opportunities. Students of all ages utilized the resources of the BJE, Congregation Beth-El Zedeck, the Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, and Congregation Shaarey Tefilla to engage with our sacred texts in new ways. On July 10, Rabbi Benjamin Sendrow offered new insights to the Book of Genesis. Mrs. Miriam Gettinger explored the laws of kashrut with our community on July 17. Rabbi Dr. Nadia Siritsky explained Jewish mysticism on July 24 by. The series ended on July 31 with an exploration of sexuality, led by Mr. George Kelley. Proceeds from this collaboration will be used to fund teacher training programs to benefit educators from all Jewish educational organizations in our community. We thank Congregation Beth-El Zedeck, Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, and Congregation Shaarey Tefilla for being our partners in providing quality lifelong learning opportunities to the community.
This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps make Jewish Education accessible at the Bureau of Jewish Education through program funding.
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JCC
Jewish Community Center
Ann Katz Festival of Books and Arts 15th Anniversary Celebration October 28-November 17 Mark your calenders for the Ann Katz Festival of Books and Arts. We are celebrating 15 incredible years with a schedule of 15 events. Events include New York Times best-selling youth author, John Green; Rabbi Arthur Green, author of Radical Judaism; Indyklez for a rousing musical evening; and an evening of song and cake in honor of the anniversary featuring a screening of Broadway Musicals: A Jewish Legacy.
Rock Steady Boxing: Fighting the Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease Monday and Wednesday, 2:00–3:30 p.m. Thursday, 2:30–4:00 p.m. The JCC is honored to bring Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) to those with Parkinson’s Disease Level 1 and 2. Though it may seem surprising, this non-contact boxing-inspired fitness routine is dramatically improving the ability of people with Parkinson’s to live independent lives. Only for participants with a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Made possible with generous support from Howald Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing and the Leonard and Marion Freeman Charitable Fund. Cost: $10/class or $80/10-class pass, free to members. New participants need a 90 minute assessment ($35). Please contact Colleen at ccrispen@jccindy. org or at 317.251.9467, extention 2226. Upcoming Katz ACE Classes Italic Variations Wednesdays, October 2–November 6 (six sessions) 1:00–3:00 p.m. $118/$79 members Skill level—intermediate to advanced Prerequisite—Ability to letter in Italic This class is designed for students who want to expand their Italic skills. We will explore many Italic variations, done with broad-edged and pointed pens and a brush. Bring your usual supplies to the first class. Register by Wednesday, September 25. The i-Experience Tuesday, October 15 6:00–7:30 p.m. $45/$30 members Get the most out of your iPhone and iPad. Learn tips, tricks and techniques for your “i-Device.” At this interactive workshop, participants will learn how to use top business and personal apps. Instructor: Eric Anderson, former Apple Business Manager for Indiana and a nationally recognized speaker. Bring your i-Device.
Screening: Bottle in the Gaza Sea Saturday, September 28 8:00–10:00 p.m. $8/$5 members In partnership with Heartland Truly Moving Pictures and the Center for Interfaith Cooperation. This emotional and provocative award-winning Heartland film is about an Israeli and Palestinian teen in a relationship separated by cultural and physical distances. This tender story portrays the challenges of life on both sides of the green line.
This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support early childhood and adult education, culture programs and fitness at the JCC.
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Exotic Plant Removal Friday, Otcober 25 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. The JCC needs your help restoring the campus woods. We invite you to volunteer to help remove invasive Asian Honeysuckle on the JCC campus under the direction of Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. Continental breakfast and box lunch provided for all volunteers. For more information please call 317.251.2208 or visit www.jccindy.org. Rain or shine. RSVP by Monday, October 21.
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JCRC
Jewish Community Relations Council
JCRC Annual Meeting
On June 24 the JCRC held its Annual Meeting, this year hosted by the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. After a short business meeting, local immigration attorney and Midwest Field Coordinator for the Bibles Badges and Business campaign for comprehensive immigration reform Angela Adams delivered an update on Congressional Immigration Reform efforts. JCRC would like to thank outgoing President Todd Maurer for his years of dedicated service to the agency. We would also like to congratulate our new President, Shelby Anderson, and Jamie Rich, who was awarded the David M. Cook Memorial Award for leadership in both the Jewish and general communities.
JCRC Brings Israeli Economic Discussions to Indy This summer JCRC helped to foster two discussions on Israel’s economy and economic partnerships with the United States. The first took place on May 29 with leading Israeli economist Yaacov Fisher. Fisher spoke over lunch to group of Jewish professionals and in the evening to the larger Jewish community. On August 15 JCRC welcomed President Uriel Lynn and General Manager Dan Carmely of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce for a symposium about ways to build and expand business partnerships between companies in Indiana and Israel. The morning symposium was hosted by the Law Offices of Katz & Korin and co-sponsored by the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, the US Department of Commerce and the Government of Israel’s Economic Mission.
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Interfaith Iftar On August 4 JCRC partnered with the Center for Interfaith Cooperation, Beth El Zedeck, IHC, Nur-Allah Islamic Center, Niagara Foundation, St. Lukes United Methodist Church, Second Presbyterian Church and the Heartland Film Festival for an Interfaith Iftar at the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. The Iftar, or traditional break-the-fast meal during the month of Ramadan, was attended by nearly 400 people. After a short introduction and comments participants enjoyed the film God in a Box, a Heartland Film Festival official selection movie. Following the movie the participants moved to the social hall to enjoy the Iftar meal. Contending with Antisemitism: From the Holocaust until Today Sunday, September 29 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Laikin Auditorium, Arthur M. Glick JCC JCRC is partnering with IU’s Borns Jewish Studies Program to help present the 2013 Joan and Samuel New Institute for the Study of Judaism and the Jews. Professors Alvin Rosenfeld and Mark Roseman will present their most recent research and findings on what the resurgence of antisemitism means for us. A kosher dinner will be served at 5:00 p.m. RSVP by September 23 to Lindsey Mintz at lmintz@indyjcrc.org. Iran, Israel and the Middle East Thursday, October 10 7:00 p.m. Laikin Auditorium, Arthur M. Glick JCC JCRC will host Meir Javedanfar, an Iranian born Israeli Middle East analyst specializing in Israeli-Iranian relations. Mr. Javedanfar speaks Farsi, Hebrew, English, Spanish and Portuguese, is a regular economic and political consultant for CNN, FOX, BBC and The New York Times and has lectured throughout the world on Iran. Festival of Faiths Sunday, October 13 12:00–4:30 p.m. Veterans Memorial Plaza and the Indiana War Memorial The Center for Interfaith Cooperation, an organization of which JCRC is a founding and active board member, has planned Indianapolis’ first Festival of the Faiths celebration bringing people together to learn about the various faith traditions being practiced in central Indiana. The festival will feature performances, food and merchant vendors and activities for families. Inside the War Memorial there will be exhibits, a presentation, a documentary showing and a dialogue among community leaders about the role of religion in multi-faith world. JCRC Committee Work JCRC’s committees are open to all members of the Jewish community. If you want to learn about what we do and want to participate in conversations about the most pressing issues of our day with respect to both domestic policy and Israel, the Middle East and antisemitism, visit www.indyjcrc.org, to join our distribution list, or email David Sklar, our Director of Government Affairs, at dsklar@ indyjcrc.org or Lindsey Mintz, our Executive Director, at lmintz@indyjcrc.org.
This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support the JCRC, your public policy voice.
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Hooverwood
Hooverwood
New At Hooverwood: Aroma Therapy Our residents and staff are exploring the therapeutic benefits of aroma therapy thanks to a generous grant provided by the St. Vincent Foundation and the Center for Healthy Aging. Clinical research has indicated that the use of aroma therapy in nursing homes often leads to a decrease in anxiety, restlessness, pain and nausea. Other benefits have included improved sleep, appetite and cognitive awareness. Although Hooverwood does not intend to use this intervention in place of traditional medical and nursing care, we look forward to aroma therapy enhancing the overall care that we provide to our residents, especially those with dementia related illness. So during your next visit to Hooverwood, enjoy the beautiful fragrances. For more information about this program, contact Kira Shemesh, Director of Activities and Adult Day Services at kshemesh@hooverwood.org or 317.251.2261, extension 4132. Spa Night Hooverwood’s Activity Department has once again outdone themselves in creating a new program to pamper our residents. On a monthly basis, our residents are invited to the Hooverwood Spa (Fireside Lounge) for an evening of music, relaxation, pampering and refreshments. The activity staff provides the residents with massage, facials and manicures while enjoying fresh fruit smoothies. During the August Spa Night, musical entertainment was provided by Melissa Gallant, who played the harp. Great job, activity staff, in providing such an enjoyable and relaxing evening for our residents.
Our Community
This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support programs and services to the Residents of Hooverwood.
A New Look for Hooverwood The Hooverwood Family is excited to announce our new look. We partnered with Pivot Marketing in Fountain Square to develop a new identity and website that better reflects our heritage, people and philosophy of compassionate, person-centered care. Hooverwood’s new logo was inspired by the beautiful stain glass windows in the Glazer Family Chapel. We chose bright, new colors that reflect the warmth, vitality and traditions of Hooverwood. Our new tagline, “Caring, for generations,” honors Hooverwood’s legacy of care from its founding as a shelter for the poor in 1908. And, since Hooverwood was established as a senior care facility in 1929, our home has been providing care for generations of families. Hooverwood’s new website, www.hooverwood.org, is warm and bright to convey our home’s energetic, social environment. It features our residents and staff throughout with custom photography and heartwarming videos. The “Our Story” section honors our history, staff and the Jewish traditions that provide the foundation for Hooverwood’s high standards of care and compassion.
Community News
Beth-El Zedeck Welcomes Rabbi Hal Schevitz Congregation Beth-El Zedeck is proud to welcome Rabbi Hal Schevitz as Assistant Rabbi of our congregation. Rabbi Schevitz grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and attended the University of Maryland at College Park. He earned Master of Arts degrees in Jewish Education and Jewish Studies from Baltimore Hebrew University. Rabbi Schevitz served as a rabbinic intern at Baltimore Hebrew Congregation and at Temple Beth Abraham in Canton, Massachusetts. During his senior rabbinic year he was student rabbi of Temple Shalom in Salem, Massachusetts. Rabbi Schevitz was ordained at the Rabbinical School of Hebrew College in Newton, Massachusetts in June, 2013. In addition to his congregational experience, Rabbi Schevitz has served as a Senior Life Chaplain intern at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center in Boston, Massachusetts. He has been a day school Judaic studies instructor and a Jewish life specialist and music department head in youth camp settings. Rabbi Schevitz is an avid comic book collector and a trumpet player with a powerful shofar blast! Rabbi Schevitz and his wife, Jena, were married June, 2012. She works in health care consulting and is originally from the Boston area. Ellen Gabovitch, President of the congregation, welcomed the couple at a Selichot reception in their honor. Rabbi Dennis Sasso, Senior Rabbi of the congregation is eager to engage his new colleague. “Rabbi Schevitz brings a rich background and enthusiastic spirit,” says Rabbi Sasso. “I look forward to involving him in the ongoing dynamic life of Beth-El Zedeck and the Jewish community of Indianapolis.”
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Our Community
Community News
Congregation Shaarey Tefilla
Judaism 101: Adult Education, second and fourth Wednesdays monthly 7:00-8:00 p.m.: starting on October 9. Honoree Dinner/Dance, Saturday, November 17: Honorees Linda and Sid Dunn and Jeri and Bob Schuckit Music@ShaareyTefilla, Mondays, 7:30 p.m.: October 21 Lincoln Trio, music: Turina & Garrop. December 16 Pianist Stuart Malina, music: Dvorak, Gershwin & Bloch. March 17, 2014 Solo Pianist Jerome Lowenthal, music: Mendelssohn & Rochberg Great Voices, Sundays, 2:00 p.m.: November 10 Great American Songbook, February 9 Back to the Theatre, May 4 Music and Film. The Observant Life, First and third Wednesday, monthly, 7:15-8:30 p.m.: book discussion. Torah on the Road, monthly, 12:30-1:30 p.m., last Tuesday Downtown Indianapolis or last Wednesday in Zionsville. Hebrew School Tutoring, Sundays 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and Wednesdays 6:30-8:00 p.m.: CST children grades 3-7 focus on literacy, prayers and prayer book of our congregation. Parents asked us to assist in creating a Hebrew education challenge. Religious School, Sundays 9:00-11:00 a.m. Refer to our calendar at www.shaareytefilla.org and look forward to seeing you!
Beth-El Zedeck
Practical Jewish Mysticism, Sundays, October 6, 13 and 27, 10:00-11:30 a.m.: This will be an experiential rather than an academic approach to Jewish mysticism with Cantor Bob Zalkin. The goal is to connect with the values and enhance and deepen one’s own spiritual life. What Glass Ceiling? Tuesday, November 5, 7:30 p.m., Indiana History Center: Fifty years ago, women running corporations, performing surgery, leading congregations or interpreting law were virtually unheard of. Hear some of Indiana’s leading women tell their stories, explore the sources of their courage, discuss what motivated them to break down barriers and share their perspective on the obstacles that remain for women today. Presented by the Alan and Linda Cohen Center for Jewish Learning and Living at Beth-El Zedeck in partnership with the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, Girls Inc., Indiana Historical Society, Indiana Repertory Theatre and Women’s Fund of Central Indiana This is a Spirit and Place event. For more information on all these and other programs, visit www.bez613. org.
Congregation Beth Shalom
First Annual CBS Sukkah Raising, September 22, 2:00-4:00 p.m.: Come one, come all to CBS’s First Annual Sukkah Raising! Help build and decorate the Sukkah, wave the lulav and the etrog. Bring something to put in the Sukkah. We will also have supplies for making decorations there. Find location and directions on our website at www.bethshalomindy.org. Beth Shalom New Clergy Welcome and Installation, Friday, September 27, 6:30 p.m., University High School Andrews Hall: Beth Shalom is the first new Reform Jewish congregation in Central Indiana in over a century! Just three years after our founding, we are thrilled to officially welcome our two new clergy, Rabbi Stan Halpern and Cantor Deb Winston, at an Installation Evening simcha. A reception/oneg will follow the service. Upcoming Events: Our fall agenda will also feature a Tot Shabbat, a November game night and Social Action activities, including a food drive and the adoption at Chanukah of a family sponsored by the Federation. Watch our website for details.
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Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation
Sukkot Food Truck Celebration, Monday,, September 22, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., IHC south parking lot: Food vendors include: Groovy Guys Fries, Scout’s Treats, Cutie Pie Pizza, Taco Lassi and more. Second Sunday Concerts, beginning October 13, 2:00 p.m.: IHC’s Second Sunday Concerts for the 2013-14 season begins in October The Indianapolis Men’s Chorus is the featured group. November 10 is the Shawn Goodman Jazz Quartet. Concerts are free to the public. Adult Education at IHC, Tuesday evenings in October and November: The community is invited to join IHC for an exciting array of adult education classes: A Taste of Judaism, Modern Jewish History (Basic Judaism class), Beginning Hebrew Reading, Pirkei Avot: The Ethics of Our Fathers, One Crack! Two Bam! Mah Jongg Basics. Sunday mornings: Sundays with the Rabbi For detailed information visit www.ihcindy.org, or contact Marcia Goldstein, marciag@ihcindy.org or 317.255.6647.
Recycling at the JCC Do you use the recycling bins in the east parking lot of the JCC? Here are some guidelines to help you put the right materials in those big blue bins. Yes! Glass bottles/jars, rinsed Empty plastic water and soda bottles Aluminum and steel cans Newspapers/magazines/soft books/junk mail Office paper/manila folders, staples OK Cardboard/boxboard/brown paper bags Shrink wrap/plastic film/plastic grocery bags All paper grades Clean aluminum foil Tin and steel cans, rinsed Glass food jars, rinsed All empty plastic bottles marked one to seven No! Styrofoam Ceramics Light bulbs/window glass Magnetic strips Mirrors Food-soiled items/pizza boxes Plastic flower pots Clear dome covers from take out trays Microwaveable food trays Wax paper/wax cardboard/wax milk cartons Paper towels/napkins Electronics JFGI Community Calendar? There’s always something going on in the Indianapolis Jewish community! Stay in the know about events and meetings via the JFGI community calendar, www.JFGI.org/calendar. You can also submit your events to appear on the calendar.
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BJS
Borns Jewish Studies Program
Scholarships for Incoming IU College Freshman The Robert A. and Sandra S. Borns Jewish Studies Program at Indiana University announces scholarships of up to $20,000 ($5,000/year for four years) for incoming freshman 2014-2015. Application deadline: Monday January 26, 2014. Herb and Bernice Levetown Scholarship Martha Ann Mervis Scholarship Selma Lee Mervis Young Scholarship (for students pursuing Jewish sacred music curriculum) Friends of the Borns Jewish Studies Program Scholarships Robert A. and Sandra S. Borns Scholarship Irving M. Glazer Scholarships
For more information, please contact the Robert A. and Sandra S. Borns Jewish Studies Program at 812.855.0453 or IUJSP@indiana.edu.
HHAI
Hasten Hebrew Academy
The Hasten Hebrew Academy started a new school year with the traditional Back-to-School Barbecue. New and returning students and staff enjoyed the opportunity to greet each other in a casual and fun atmosphere. The Academy is pleased to welcome the new families who have joined us from the Indianapolis area, as well as those that are new to our city.
Contending With Antisemitism: From the Holocaust to Today
Sunday, September 29 2:00-5:00 p.m. Laikin Auditorium, Arthur M. Glick JCC The Robert A. and Sandra S. Borns Jewish Studies Program at IU and the Jewish Community Relations Council present the 2013 Joan and Samuel New Institute for the Study of Judaism and the Jews and two critical lectures by two leading scholars. Mark Roseman, Director of the IU Borns Jewish Studies Program and Pat M. Glazer Chair in Jewish Studies Antisemitism, will speak on “The Holocaust and Antisemitism: A Complex Connection.” Alvin Rosenfeld, Director, IU Institute for the Study of Contemporary and Irving M. Glazer Chair in Jewish Studies, will discuss “What is the ‘New’ Antisemitism? And What Can We Do About it?” Buffet dinner at 5:00 p.m. Dietary laws observed. This event is free and open to the public. You can find more information by visiting www.indyjcrc.org or www. indiana.edu/~jsp. Registration by September 23 by emailing Lindsey Mintz at lmintz@indyjcrc.org. Supported by funding from the Joan and Samuel New Institute Fund of the Robert A. and Sandra S. Borns Jewish Studies Program at Indiana University and the Indianapolis Jewish Community Relations Council. This is YOUR Federation. Your gift to the Annual Campaign helps support the educational programs at the Hasten Hebrew Academy. The Hebrew Academy faculty used the summer for learning. They received training in the responsive classroom, my Big Campus, iPad apps and use of math manipulatives in elementary classrooms. Fifth through eighth graders started the year with an iPad Boot Camp designed to orient them in the use of the iPads they each received as part of their curriculum. The Academy anticipates making great educational strides through the use of this new program, which enables research and exploration beyond traditional textbook learning and makes instruction interactive. Students will have independent research and learning opportunities. Use of iPads allows for differentiation and enhances student presentations and productions depicting critical and creative thinking skills.
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FEED THE HUNGRY.
GIVE HOPE TO THOUSANDS.
SECURE THE FUTURE.
BEFORE YOU FINISH BREAKFAST. It only takes a few minutes to change lives in our community and around the world. Food banks for the needy, care for seniors, Israel experiences for the young — these are just some of the solutions Federation supports with heart, innovation and decades of knowing what works. Seize the moment: Donate. Volunteer. Get involved. Your link to getting started: www.JFGI.org THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.
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www.JFGI.org @JFGIndy Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis
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