the jewish community newspaper of northwest indiana nwi ...€¦ · proudly waving israeli flags...

Yom Ha’Zikaron

Every year the entire state of Israel stands silent for a minute to remem-ber all its fallen soldiers. This day pre-cedes Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Israel Inde-pendence Day.

Noar, our Federation youth group, with the assistance of Oded Fromo-vitz, our community shaliach, re-cently held a memorial service re-membering all those soldiers who have lost their lives in defense of their home. It was a service that poignantly remembered Israel’s heroes through prayer, prose and song.

On Sunday, April 25 more than 125 people came out to celebrate Israel’s 62nd birthday at Northwest Indiana’s annual Walk with Israel, an event organized by Co-Chairwomen Julie Gideon and Stephanie Schoffman.

SAVE THE DATE: ISRAELI SCOUT CARAVAN PERFORMANCE IN NWI ON JULY 6, 7, 8

The Jewish Community Newspaper of Northwest IndianaJUNE SIVAN/TAMMUZ 5770 VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2 JEWISH FEDERATION OF NORTHWEST INDIANA

FOR REAL TIME FEDERATION INFORMATION GO TO www.federationonline.org

NWI Walks With IsraelCommunity says farewell to Shaliach Oded Fromovitz

Despite the rain all the participants walked proudly waving Israeli flags showing their love for our Jewish home-land. In addition to the walk, 14 Israelis par-ticipated in an Israel market, highlighting beautiful art and jewelry from Israel.

It does not seem like that long ago when Oded

Fromovitz ar-rived in

our community, almost two years ago. As the communi-ty shaliach—an ambassador from Israel—Oded has made both impressionable and an indelible mark on our com-munity. At the walk lunch, Francie Gerson, chair of the shaliach committee, publicly acknowledged the wonder-ful work Oded has done dur-ing his time with us and that he would be missed by many. With each passing year these young individuals continue to enhance and strengthen our

relationship with Israel.

Our sha-liach program

is a special part of the Jewish

Federation and these individuals

have become an integral part of our

Federation family. Oded has be-come a very im-portant part of community and he knows that he will always have a home in north-west Indiana.

Top: Ann Pekarsky and Nancy Feldman. Left: Chairwoman of the Community Shaliach Program Francie Gerson thanks Oded Fromo-vitz for his service to Northwest Indiana at the Walk With Israel. Far Left: A vendor’s artwork.

Rachel Schoffman and Belinda Oberman carry the banner for

2010 Walk With Israel.

By Gus GalanteFederation President

Several of my close friends have asked me “why did you do this?” meaning…why did you take on the presidency of our Jewish Federation. I realized I didn’t have a short answer. I had a long one, and here it is:◙ because I have a vision of how the

organization should run, and I want to see it happen;◙ because I want to inspire others

to be as excited as I am;◙ because I like people and this is a people busi-

ness like no other;◙ because if I strive to improve my life, I feel a

responsibility to help others improve their lives;◙ because many things happen around us as a

result of volunteers, and I want to be a part of that volunteer effort;◙ because a person has many parts to their life

which make up their identity and this is a way for me to express the Jewish part of my identity;◙ because I love this stuff;◙ because I was given an opportunity;◙ because if better is possible, good is not enough;◙ because wishing for a more unified Jewish

community is different than working to make it happen.This is the long answer and perhaps the reason

I couldn’t answer it succinctly. As I move through my term, other reasons will emerge, and the list will continue to grow. And my life will be enriched as a result. Again, I thank all of you for the oppor-tunity to help lead this organization.

Federation Administrative StaffMichael Steinberg, Executive Director

Carol Szaks, JCS DirectorRoseanne Sopher,K’Ton Ton Preschool

Oded Fromovitz, ShaliachAimee LuzwickDenise Snyder,

Administrative AssistantsAngela Christner, Bookkeeper

Gus Galante, PresidentIlliana News Editorial Board

Len Dreyfus and Carol Karol, Co-EditorsNancy Webster, Managing Editor

Boni Fine, Ernest Fruehauf, Gus Galante, Lou Kaplan, Michael Sparber, Michael

Steinberg

The Illiana News is published four times per year under the supervision of the Jew-ish Federation of Northwest Indiana. Orga-nizations may send their publicity requests by mail, email or fax. The Federation re-serves the right to reject any material for any reason and to edit, at its own discre-tion, any material accepted for publication.

Jewish Federation585 Progress Ave.Munster, IN 46321

Phone: 219-922-4024FAX: 219-922-4034

Email: [email protected]

2 Illiana News June 2010 Sivan/Tammuz 5770

Friends ask:Why do you

do this?

By Oded FromovitzCommunity Shaliach

My two years as the community sha-liach are quickly coming to an end. Before I came to Northwest Indiana I didn’t know what to expect. This would be the first time that I would Iive out-side of Israel for an extended period of time.

Before I came to work at Greene Fam-ily URJ summer camp in 2007, like a lot of Israelis, I did not give

much thought to Jews living in the Diaspora. Life in Israel is not easy, the army, security, the political climate, etc. . .Jews living out-side of Israel for the most part live a com-fortable life.

So my initial ques-tion was “Why should I care about Diaspora Jewry? It appears they do not care about us.”

The first time I came to America as a camp counselor, I found out how really wrong I was. I realized how necessary the Israel Diaspora was. The strength and survival of the Jewish people is de-pendent on this strong relationship.

After my army service I decided that instead of traveling to South America or to India like many of my friends, I wanted to have a different experience to help promote the importance of my country. This is why I submitted my application to become a community shaliach.

In 2008, I started my screening pro-cess, passing each stage with excite-ment. Suddenly, I realized I was about to become an emissary representing my home. I had an interview with the Jewish Federation of Northwest In-diana and was drawn to the warmth and excitement I felt during my phone interview. A few months later Michael Steinberg was waiting at baggage claim at Midway Airport to take me to my temporary home.

I have had so many different and unique experiences during my two years here: Living by myself, learn-ing how to cook, cold freezing winters

with tons of snow. To be exposed to the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements was a wonderful education in itself. Every week I looked forward to teaching both religious and Hebrew school; it has been 12 years since I have worn a tie. Although America is an informal society it stills does not beat Israel.

In addition to enhancing our com-munity’s relationship I really enjoyed the many opportunities to speak at churches, civic organizations and uni-versities. These speaking engagements made me realize how ignorant so many

people are about their knowledge of Israel and the Jewish people. These oppor-tunities helped dispel the attitudes and per-ceptions many people have about our Jew-ish homeland. Most importantly, I was

met by such a warm community. So many people opened their hearts and their homes and made me feel at home. Northwest Indiana will always be my home away from home.

These past two years have been an amazing experience, something I will never forget. During this time, I have discovered a lot about myself, about the meaning of community and about the Jewish people in general. Israel does not belong just to Israelis; it be-longs to all Jews wherever they live. We are One people–Am Echad (as Mi-chael Steinberg keeps saying to me). Our strength as a people is our support of each other.

In October 2010, I will be starting my studies, seven years after graduating from High School, I have been accepted at the I.D.C. College in Hertzlia, Israel (Google it). I will be majoring in gov-ernment with a minor in Middle East studies.

I want to thank all of you for giving me this experience, for letting me be a part of this wonderful community. I have made so many lasting relation-ships here. Northwest Indiana will al-ways be a part of my heart.

Hope to see you in Israel!!!If you are coming, or just want to say hello, here is my contact information:

Cellphone: 052-8967748E-mail: [email protected]: oded fromovitz

From Israel with Love ♥ Oded

Fromovitz reflects on two yearsas Community Shaliach in NWI

The Jewish Federation of Northwest Indianaand the Illiana News extend a warm greetingto our new readers in the Michigan City area.

Thank you for sharing news of your community.See Page 5 for Michigan City news

Illiana News June 2010 Sivan/Tammuz 5770 3

By Nancy Coltun Webster

MUNSTER—Jewish Community Services, the heart and soul of the Jewish Federation of Northwest Indiana, boasts a plethora of services that touch the lives of people from age 2 to nearly 102.

Adult Friendship Club, a club which serves an estimated 120 senior citizens, meets each Monday and Wednesday for a hot meal prepared by Ken Shepard, a pro-fessional chef. Pat Ja-cobson, staff facilitator, is responsible for the day-to-day program op-eration which includes supervising the profes-sional and volunteer kitchen staff along with

organizing programs and field trips.

Ms. Jacobson works closely with Carol Szaks, director of JCS for 21 years.

Ms. Szaks oversees the “Circle of Services” in-cluding everything from pre-school programs to adult programs and so-cial services such as the Food Pantry, also known as the Manna Cabana.

“Anyone can join the AFC. We offer delicious lunches and compan-ionship,” says Ms. Ja-cobson. The lunches are underwritten by the Jewish Federation and therefore are very af-fordable at $5 per meal to members who pay the annual $10 member-ship fee. “We also serve

holiday meals at Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Thanksgiving and have a Han-nukah lunch at Briar Ridge.”

Recently the group enjoyed “ F r i e n d s h i p Day” at Teibel’s, an annual event timed to fall be-tween Mother’s Day and Fa-ther’s Day.

The $10 membership fee entitles participants to discounts at group events that include meals out and enter-tainment at The Center for Visual and Perform-ing Arts in Munster.

Jewish Community Services has determined

that seniors who want to attend should not be hampered by lack of transportation. Those who need rides can re-quest transportation. The driver, Germaine “Toni” Williams, travels throughout Northwest Indiana and the South Suburbs, to bring se-

niors to the lunch pro-gram.

The club elects officers and is run by President Idie Friedman. Estelle Olan is responsible for sending out cards, a long tradition among AFC-members. For $2 mem-bers can send personal cards—for $5 a special silver card can be sent.

Other club members including Rose Coltun, Corrine Foler, Ursula Fruehauf and Nancy Handler attend the Monday and Wednesday lunches to help in the kitchen, set the table and serve the meals.

Related article on Page 6

MUNSTER—More than 65 people gath-ered in our Federation social hall for an afternoon of entertainment on Sunday, March 14.

Everyone who attended was inspired by the beautiful music performed by Russian immigrants, Luba Agranovsky and Dimi-tri Kasyuk. Originally from Moscow, this couple immigrated to Israel where they lived for eight years with the help and support of the Jewish Agency and then re-settled in America in 1997.

Their story, like that of many Russian Jews, was one of hardship and discrimina-tion. Fortunately, through the outreach of world Jewry, this couple and their young daughter were given the opportunity to begin their new life.

Following the performance, Mickey Sparber, 1st VP and the 2010 campaign co-chair along with Lou Kaplan, deliv-ered a passionate presentation about how the Jewish Federation serves the local needs of the Jewish commu-nity in Lake and Porter County. He outlined in detail many of the pro-grams and services of-fered to our Jewish com-munity and the general community at large.

Mr. Sparber spoke about the increased need for addi-tional funding to help main-tain the social welfare services of the orga-nization. With much emotion he detailed the increasing need to fund services such as utilities and rent, medicine, assistance with funeral costs, perishable and non-

perishable food items and case manage-ment.

He went on to speak about senior pro-gramming such as the Adult Friendship Club, Prime Timers, the Senior Retreat and our Para-chaplain committee.

“We must never forget our commitment to provide a warm home for our seniors

through these life enhanc-ing programs,” Mr. Spar-ber said.

He also spoke with much pride about the success of our Noar Youth Group under the leadership of youth group President Joshua Steinberg and Community Shaliach

Oded Fromovitz.Noar serves an important role in our

community to bring our Jewish children together on a regular basis. The Jewish Federation sustains the only Jewish youth group in our region.

We can be proud that our community is seen as a model in the success of our Sha-

liach program, especially after the last two years of having Oded Fromovitz become a part of our community. Having a shaliach is our tangible connection to our Jewish family, Israel.

As Mr. Sparber said during his remarks, “everyone makes a difference in the life of this Jewish organization.”

How can anyone say no to supporting this network of programs and services pro-vided by your Jewish Federation?

If you have not already made your 2010 commitment, please contact the Federa-tion office at 219-922-4024. Our strength is our unity and our unity is our future.

Jewish Community Services Direc-tor Carol Szaks is responsible for the Food Pantry.

Photo Credit: Senior Life

Campaign subsidizes senior programs, food pantry

’10 Campaign kickoff: Where You Make a Difference

Top photo: Gus Galante and Don Levinson; Top R.: Max Goldschmidt and Gene Berger; Bottom R.: Pastor Abdallah, Bob Ellis and Rabbi Ra-phael Ostrovsky; Bottom L. Merrill and Warren Yalowitz.

Kibbutz dancers draw 200-plus

Illiana News June 2010 Sivan/Tammuz 5770

By Len DreyfusTemple Israel member and

Miller Beach resident Jack Jaffe owned and operated 5 of some of Midas Muffler’s high-est volume shops (in India-napolis, Gary, and Hammond). He became disgruntled with Midas’ corporate management policies and decided to exercise his option to forfeit his fran-chises and, since he owned his own property, started his own independent chain. He came to me and asked that I help him come up with a new name and logo.I came up with the name Car-

X and the logo with the RX im-plying that we make sick cars well. The logo was further per-fected by Rod Ward, my Art Di-rector.Upon hearing of Jack’s plans,

several other unhappy Midas dealers in Chicago and Mil-waukee joined Jack to form a Car-X partnership that in it’s first year contained 16 high volume shops. In fact, in the first year as Car-X the shops outperformed their previous year’s sales as Midas shops.I was then privileged to han-

dle the advertising in print, ra-dio and TV for the various Car-X markets.A year later, Jack and his part-

ners decided to franchise and

chose me as their first franchi-see. Jack partnered me with a muffler manufacturer sales rep he had befriended. We opened our first shop at 54th and Pu-laski in Chicago. After 3 years together, my partner left to open his own independent shop and my wife Ede and I found ourselves owner-operators of 2 Chicago shops. Since I was still focused on advertising, Ede became supervisor, carefully overseeing the financial end of the business. As a result she knows more about mufflers, shocks, rotors, brake pads, and drums than any speech and hearing therapist this side of Daytona.In the meantime, word got

around our Temple’s social halls about the new busi-ness opportunities available. Car-X franchises were ac-quired and shops were devel-oped by Temple members Al Bernstein(Madison and later Minneapolis-St. Paul), Chuck Lazerwitz (north side of Chi-cago), Jerry Milgram and Marv Kagan (the St. Louis market), and Bob Rottenberg and Dick Blau (Joliet). In addition, Jack continued to open new shops in Indianapolis, Merrillville, Schererville, and River Oaks.All in all, at one time or an-

other, between 30 and 40 Car-X muffler shops throughout

the Midwest have been owned by members of Temple Israel.Jack and the original own-

ers of the Car-X franchise sold their interest some years’ ago and corporate ownership has passed from one group to another. The only continuity to Car-X is the dealers them-selves who year after year get the highest rating for customer satisfaction across the Mid-west as judged by consumer advocate groups.Now you know that Temple Is-

rael members, besides striving to fulfill Rabbi Halpern’s mis-

sion (and Judaism’s) of Tekum Olam (to heal the world, are also busy healing thousands of needy vehicles every year.So, the next time your car

goes rattle, rattle thunder clat-ter, boom-boom-boom, and you wander into a Car-X shop, you can tell the person behind the counter that you know who, why, how and when Car-X got started. You will no doubt be rewarded with a free cup of cof-fee from the free coffee counter (usually one in every shop).Hey, don’t knock it, it’s more

than Starbuck’s offers you!

12 members of the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company travel from the WesternGalilee to share art, entertainment with their NWI Partnershipcommunity

By Judy KatzEvent Chairwoman

MUNSTER—Jewish Federation of Northwest Indiana had the pleasure of hosting Company 2 of the Kibbutz Con-temporary Dance Company on March 20.

Federation families from Munster to Valparaiso hosted for two nights, 12 dancers ranging in age from 19 to 27 years, along with their company director. Everyone had the opportunity to learn more about our Partnership area of the Western Galilee, which is where the kib-butz is located. Dancers and families enjoyed their time together visiting, din-

ing, and shopping. More than 200 people attended

the performance. The dancers ex-hibited extreme energy and tal-ent, impressing the audience of all ages.

After the performance, the direc-tor, Gali, and several of the danc-ers sat with the audience and an-swered questions regarding what it is like to be in the company, where they trained, their goals in life, as well as what life is like in Israel.

After the performance, host fami-lies and the dancers shared a meal at a local restaurant. It was a sad evening for the company, as they had to say goodbye to one of their dancers who was leaving the next morning to start his army service protecting Israel.

Everyone agreed that it was a wonderful opportunity for the dance company as well as for those of us in

Northwest Indiana, and we hope to con-tinue our friendships.

Twelve dancers from the Western Galilee comprise Com-pany 2 of Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company.

Temple Israel’s shocking–but true!–story

Temple Israel of Valparaiso’s Carla Lee Susondiscusses her book ‘Independence Day Plague’

MUNSTER—Author Carla Lee Suson of Crown Point, and member of Temple Israel in Valparaiso, will speak about her new book “Independence Day Plague” at 11 a.m. Sunday June 13 at the Jewish Federation Community Building, 535 Progress Ave. The discussion will include coffee and light re-freshments. Learn how Ms. Suson was inspired to write her new book.

Illiana Hadassah sets closing luncheonMUNSTER—Illiana Hadassah will host its closing lun-

cheon at noon, June 6 at the Center for Visual and Perform-ing Arts. Everyone is invited for a very lively afternoon of fun, song and great food. Entertainment will be J. Jay Brook, an international singer, well-known for his Vegas style one-man show which includes old standards and show tunes. For additional information and reservations, please call Ann Pe-karsky (219) 836-1717 or Marlene Kaplan (219) 922-6757.

4


Temple Israel-Valponames new board

By Amy LavalleyVALPARAISO—Spring appears to have

sprung at last here in Porter County. We have new board members in place, are moving through a busy spring schedule, and coming up with a fabulous calendar for the coming months.

We said goodbye to Temple President Jill Edwards, who gave her time and energy in that role. Ken Kassner steps off the board after several years of service as well.

The new co-presidents are Vivienne Khokhar and Dianna Whitman. Other board members—some new, some return-ing—include Marc Barnett, Karen Cagen, Amy Cheuk, Adam Clough, Mollie Ivaldi, Fred Kobak, Amy Lavalley, Mike Miller and Gail Mitzenmacher.

The Sunday School is winding down its year with a Friday night family service, a brunch fund-raiser and a trip to the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie. It is also wrapping up a tzedekah project to collect clothing, luggage, women’s and children’s clothing, and travel-sized toiletries for the Sojourner Truth House in Gary.

Josie Tolin, daughter of Hal and Rosanne Tolin of Valparaiso, celebrated her bat mitz-vah on May 29. Josie helped Rabbi Shosha-na Feferman lead a Friday night service on May 28. On June 4, a family dinner will be held before the confirmation of Dennis Ca-gen, Nathan Hendrix and Jacob Suson.

By Laura BrenmanMUNSTER—It’s not hard to find a

fund which will help our CBI to run as smoothly as it has done for the last year: the CBI Building Fund, the Speaker’s Fund, the Library fund, the Simcha Wall are just a few. This spring we have a new one: in memory of Eugene Berger,

CBI has decided to purchase new prayer books for the High Holy days. The book is the newest edition of the Conservative Movement, and it will replace the ver-sion we own, published more than four decades ago.

Our book club is reading “Songs for the Butcher’s Daughter.” It is a winner

of the National Jewish Book Award to fiction and the Sophie Brody Medal for Outstanding Achievement in Jewish Lit-erature.

It has been a busy year for Sisterhood. In addition to hosting weekly Kiddushim

Continued on Page 12

By Adina Sutlin MICHIGAN CITY–Sinai Tem-

ple’s Rabbi Reni Dickman is due to give birth to her first child in the middle of June. She will be on Sabbatical during the summer and returns in the first week of September. Our dedicated Lay-Leaders will conduct services each Friday at 6 p.m. during the summer. A pot-luck dinner after services is planned for every other Friday.

Sinai Temple of Michigan City, 2800 Franklin St., is host-ing a golf outing at Briar Leaf Golf Course in La Porte on

June 11 with a lunch at Porto-fino restaurants. Sinai Temple is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism. For more details, contact the Temple at 219-874-4477. To reach Sinai Temple online, go to:

www.sinaitemplemc.orgOn Jan. 31, the children and

members of Sinai Temple and Temple Israel of Miller beach celebrated Tu-BiSh’vat with a combined Seder at Sinai Tem-ple.

Dr. Gus Galante & Michael Sparber, President and vice-President of the Northwest

Indiana Jewish Federation vis-ited us here at Sinai Temple on Friday Feb. 12. Dr. Galante spoke during our Shabbat ser-vice about the many services offered by the Federation.

Purim was celebrated again with Temple Israel at their building in Miller Beach on February 28. This was another attempt to bring the children of both congregations together for this event.

At a new membership Shab-bat on March 26, we welcomed eight new members who joined Sinai Temple in the past two

years.A community Seder took

place here on the 2nd night of Pesach with about 50 partici-pants. A Holocaust Memorial Service was held here on Sun-day, April 11, 2010.

Shabbat Services on Friday, April 23 were conducted by our religious school children after a pot luck Dinner.

Our only student to be con-firmed this year, on May 7, 2010, was Justin Katz, son of Jeffrey & Dr. Janice Katz.

Our Sisterhood Second Deli Day of the year was May 26.

GARY—Our annual Peace and Jus-tice Seder was held on April 2 and was a very special evening. Jane Ellen Rot-tenberg donated over 200 homemade matza balls. Fonnie Duron, owner of Za Za’s Restaurant, provided the Five-Star dinner. Bobbie Galler, along with Rabbi Halpern, wrote an original service. Jo-anna Bloom decorated the tables with fresh spring flowers. Several members

lent their voices to enhance the service with music. It was a warm experience for the community to mingle with our members and partake of this occasion.

Our special guest speaker on April 18 was Lev Raphael, author of many books and a prize-winning pioneer in Ameri-can Jewish Literature. He has also been a radio talk show host, columnist, and a

Continued on Page 12

Sinai offers weekly Friday night services all summer

By Miriam MarcusMUNSTER—This spring, we have

been having lots of fun at Temple Beth-El!

We have had several fun-raisers: a “funky bowling” night for couples, the Kugel Cook-Off Competition, and a game night amongst other events.

Let’s recap some of the other recent goings-on. A hearty “Mazel Tov” to the Levitan family and especially to Marc Levitan who became a Bar Mitzvah on March 6. Many Temple families attend-ed Sisterhood’s congregational Passover Seder on March 30, and the women of TBE got together at the Women’s Seder on April 4.

Thanks to our Sisterhood for support-ing these important holiday activities. A lucky group from Temple journeyed to Israel this spring. They had lots of in-teresting and inspiring stories to share upon their return.

Speaking of inspiring stories, in April, Temple member Miriam Webster spoke at a Brotherhood dinner meeting about her experiences living in Poland and

Germany during the Holocaust.We also held our annual Grandparent’s

Shabbat service in April, and the junior choir provided the music. Temple held a special Confirmation Reunion Service on Friday night May 21 where former confirmands (including some who are now grown men and women) returned to Temple to participate in the service.

Sisterhood hosted a closing luncheon in May. The food and the entertainment were delightful. On June 5 we will show an Israeli movie for “Movie Night.”

Future plans include a trip to the Ho-locaust Museum in Skokie. Brotherhood is working on firming up a date in June or July. We will be carpooling from the Temple and also having a meal in one of the local restaurants. Please contact Sy Sarowitz or the office for details.

Also, on June 27 Charlotte Moore will once again lead the charge as we vol-unteer to cook a meal for the homeless. Extra hands are needed. Please contact the office if you wish to help out. Finally, special plans are underway to celebrate 4th of July with your Temple friends.

Temple Beth-El makes fun summer plans

CBI to purchase new prayerbooks in memory of Eugene Berger

Temple Israel in Gary presents Lev Raphael

5

Manna Cabana/Food Pantry

We can’t be successful without donations from the community.

Call Carol Szaks at 219-922-4024 to make a contri-bution.Prime Timers (55+)

Eva Weinstein, president.$10 per year to join.Become a member today,

call 219-838-0465.Upcoming Events

July 8:A Chinatown FortuneYour fortune reads: “You

will have a wonderful day in Chicago’s Chinatown!” You will tour the United States’ second largest ethnic Chi-nese neighborhood by mo-tor coach where you will see and learn about China-town Square, the Chinatown Gate, The Nine Dragon Wall, the Puitak Center Building

Continued on Page 7

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ALL JCS PROGRAMS AND SERVICES CALL:

Laurie Young, JCS Chair (219) 923-3937 or Carol Szaks, JCS Director (219) 922-4024

6

News BriefsHelp for SeniorsAre you a senior citizen who needs some help? We have volunteers who will do light yard work or simple chores. Call Carol Szaks at the Federation office, 922-4024.

Seeking workCertified Forklift Driver, Expe-rienced Dockman seeks work. This gentleman has been out of work for quite some time.

Gentleman seeks full-time posi-tion with the following qualifica-tions: communications, educa-tion, writing, and information technology background. Previ-ous experience in journalism.

Woman looking for a job. She is very well-educated and is looking for general employment.

If you have any openings in your company, please call Carol Szaks at the Federation office (219) 922-4024

JCY CampSOLD OUT IN 11 days – Larger than ever before. We are look-ing forward to an awesome, safe summer.

Feed the hungry!We need your help one day a month or one day a year. Aida Nozick is chair of feeding the hungry at the men’s mission in downtown Hammond. Please help us. Call Aida today – 934-9980. We need volunteers!!! We are committed to this year-long project.

Donate a CarPlease contact Carol Szaks at (219) 922-4024 if you have a car to donate.

Save the DateThe Israeli Scout Caravan will return to Northwest Indiana July 6, 7 and 8. The Caravan is a group of talented teens from Israel who travel throughout the U.S. They present audience in-teractive musical entertainment. All ages are sure to enjoy the program.


Campaign, volunteers ensure programs’ vitality

New members join in time for AFC ‘Friendship Day’By Pat JacobsonAFC Facilitator

The Adult Friendship Club has been very busy. We had our Holiday meal and our Passover meal.

On February 24, 2010, we attended the play, “Noises Off”. Before the play, we had lunch. The cost for the play and lunch

was $42.On June 7 we will be

having lunch at Teibel’s for “Friendship Day,” (a tradi-tion started last year).

The cost for this lunch is only $10, as The Adult Friendship Club un-derwrites the rest of the cost. Great price to have lunch at Teibel’s!

We have a GREAT new chef, Ken, who keeps us well fed with his delicious food. We hope you will join us for these outstanding meals.

Lunches are only $5, if you pay your $10 annual dues. Our dues, by the way, are being collected in January from now on.

I am happy to say that all members, with the ex-ception of two or three have paid their dues after receiving their notice. We have also obtained several new members, due to the wonderful article that was in the “Senior Life” news-paper. Welcome to them!

Food Pantry: .........................................77 bags in AprilRent Assistance: ........................................... $1,500Utilities: ............................................................ $1,100Food Vouchers: ................................................ $220Medical: .............................................................. $300

Participation from AFC and PrimeTimers in April was 250There were 27 Graduates from K’Ton Ton

GiveGenerously.(219) 922-4024

Federation honors Tom Prisby of Citizens Financial Bank

Pictured from L: Michael Sparber, Federation 1st Vice-President; Carol Szaks, Jewish Community Services Director; Tom Prisby, CFB President; Dr. Gus Galante, Federation President. Citizens Financial Bank has been very supportive of the Jewish Community Service’s Manna Cabana food pantry. Collection bins for can goods have been placed at various bank locations in our area. In recognition of their community support, a special presentation was recently made to Tom Prisby, Citizens Financial Bank president.

Campaign provides funding for JCSservices, programsContinued from Page 6 and Ping Tom Park. You will visit interesting shops featuring colorful clothing, statues, hand-painted fans and jade jewelry. Your tour also includes a fam-ily-style lunch at the House of Fortune Restaurant, acclaimed as “one of Chicago’s best Chi-nese restaurants” by Chicago Magazine. Cost $54

Please call Eva Weinstein (219) 838-0465 to make your reservation. Some programs are just about filled! Our past trips have been great and a good time was had by all.

Retreat 2010August 10 to 13Camp Perlstein

Join us for the “Special” 20th anniversary of our Senior Re-treat, and special it will be!!! Our exciting, wonderful Schol-ar in Residence will be Rosalie

Levinson, Rabbi Halpern, and a special program with Don Levinson.

We will enjoy all our usual retreat activities on and off grounds, our incredible meals including early and late snacks, and socializing and learning.

This year, we will also remem-ber Gene Berger, father of our speakers Rosalie and Don, with a special concert.

While at camp, Shira A Klezmer band will present a concert of beautiful Yiddish, Is-raeli, Klezmer, and Lituzy mu-sic! This is the year to attend! Our retreat fills up every year. We will accommodate first sign ups. Now is the time to call the Federation office and sign up!!

Even if you think you are signed up, call to confirm. CALL NOW.

Annual Senior RetreatTakes place four days each Au-gust at Camp Perlstein in Wis-consin and includes a scholar-in-residence; daily trips off the grounds; entertainment.

Donate to the Food Pantry…JCS needs volunteers, call 922-4024 to offer yourself. FOR FEDERATION INFORMATION GO TO www.federationonline.org

7

By Roseanne SopherK’Ton Ton had a lot of fun

with Dads’ Night in March. Dads willingly participated in musical activities, stories, and crafts along with their chil-dren.

Rabbi Stevens led our Pass-over model Seder. He helped make our holiday very special. The children helped prepare the foods for the seder.

Afternoon Enrichment has been well attended this year. Many children have been participating in Tumble Bear Gym-nastics as well as Kindermusik after school programs.

The spring season brings many exciting events to K’Ton Ton. Our Mothers’ Day Tea is always a favorite event, and this year was no exception. Moms joined chil-dren in their classrooms for an interac-tive activity. We are currently preparing

for our annual Spring Program/Gradua-tion Ceremony. We are excited to be able to celebrate these events in the beautiful social hall of our Federation Community Building!

The Mommy ‘N Me and Me “Two” Tod-dler Program participants have been en-joying their preschool experiences very much. The young tots have made so much progress during the school year. Many are looking forward to attending Kamp K’Ton Ton this summer in addition to K’Ton Ton Preschool in the fall.

Mrs. Judy Rooth once again met with

parents to discuss relevant topics—what an enlighten-ing experience! Parents have also planned several interest-ing fundraisers. We have been raising funds to purchase addi-tional equipment for our class-rooms and playground. We extend our appreciation to the parents who have chaired these

fundraisers and to all of our families and friends for their generous support.

Registration is now open for K’Ton Ton programming. Registration forms are available for Kamp K’Ton Ton for the summer of 2010, as well as K’Ton Ton Preschool, Mommy ‘N Me, and Me “Two” Toddler Programs for the 2010-11 school year. You are welcome to come in for a visit and observe our classes. Please call the Federation Office at 922-4024 or K’Ton Ton at 922-4033 for information.

K’Ton Ton accepts Fall ’10 registration


Prom Dress Driveprovides formalwear

for Calumet High SchoolOn April 13, 2010, JCS sponsored a “Prom Dress”

Drive for Calumet High School. We collected over 350 dresses, shoes, purses, tuxe-

dos, and suits. The first children who were allowed to pick a dress or tuxedo, were children who were on a free meal plan at school. Then the other children were allowed to pick clothes.

Many thanks to our Jewish community at large for supporting this great project. Special thanks to Suzy Wright, Adriana Front, Jenny Yalowitz, and to Karen Brodsky who, along with her employer, Ashro Life-style, donated very generously boxes and boxes of jew-elry, shoes and dresses. Everyone looked beautiful at the prom.

Thank you for helping these wonderful children.The Jewish Federation welcomes Drew Patterson

an assistant to our office administrative staff.


During the week of March 15 the Jewish Community Rela-tions Council partnered with the Ridgewood Arts Founda-tion for the production of the “Diary of Anne Frank” at the Center for Visual and Perform-ing Arts. More than 4,000 stu-dents from our region viewed a chronological exhibit about the Holocaust, followed by a talk by one of our community’s local Holocaust survivors. Great ap-preciation is extended to Gene Berger, who recently passed

away, and Miriam Webster for sharing their personal stories during this tragic period in our history.

The Jewish Community Rela-tions Council, through our sur-vivors has been active for many years speaking to area stu-dents. The Holocaust has been used as the foundation to pro-mote acceptance, respect and understanding. Many view this period as a unique time, but through these engagements it is understood that we still live

in a society filled with bigotry and prejudice. As members of our planet it is con-veyed in a very strong way that hatred should be combated every time it is confronted.

Diversity and difference does not divide, but unites us as a people and makes our world a special place.

Special appreciation is given to our corporate sponsors for

making this exhibit possible: Albert’s Diamond Jewelers, Calumet College of St. Joseph, Citizens Financial Bank, Con-gregation Beth Israel, Illinois Holocaust Museum & Educa-tion Center, Levin Tire, Mc-Shane’s, Peoples Bank, Purdue University Calumet, Sandler’s Shoes, and Temple Beth-El.

Book ReviewSaving the JewsRobert Rosen, 2006

Roosevelt and the HolocaustRobert L. Beir, 2006

By Saul LernerDepartment of History/Political Science

Purdue University CalumetPresident Franklin D. Roos-

evelt’s response to Nazi per-secution and murder of the Jews is an important debate. Two spring, 2006, books sum-marized historical arguments about FDR and the Holocaust. Both supporters of Roosevelt, Robert Rosen wrote Saving the Jews; Robert L. Beir wrote Roosevelt and the Holocaust.

Opposing such accepted works as Arthur Morse’s While Six Million Died; David Wyman’s The Abandonment of the Jews; Haskel Lookstein’s

Were We Our Broth-ers’ Keep-ers?; and Henry Fe-i n g o l d ’ s The Politics of Rescue and Bear-ing Witness, Rosen sup-ported William Rubinstein’s view, in The Myth of Rescue (1997), that historians critical of FDR sought to undermine Roosevelt and his government. Rosen argued that FDR and the his government did all pos-sible to rescue European Jews.

By contrast with Rosen, Beir made painfully clear that “The Holocaust tears me to shreds” because the American Jewish Community, the State Depart-ment, the FDR Administration, and FDR were all thoroughly inadequate in their efforts at

Jewish res-cue from the Nazis. Beir relied on writings of those his-torians that Rosen al-leged had c o n s p i r e d against FDR

and his administration.These books give insight

into US efforts in behalf of the Jews. Both Rosen and Beir dis-cussed US public opinion dur-ing 1930’s and 1940’s, includ-ing bigotry, anti-Semitism, fear of the Depression joblessness, the German-American Bund and other hate groups, Father Coughlin, congressional and State Department apathy, and factors that contributed to apa-thy. Roosevelt’s hands, Rosen argued, were tied by public opinion, but he did what he

could. FDR was guiltless of indifference. Beir’s discussion emphasized the indifference of FDR and Americans toward the Jews. For Beir, Roosevelt failed the Jews, the govern-ment was unsympathetic and often anti-Semitic, the Ameri-can public was indifferent, and the fragmented American Jews were unwilling to cooperate to rescue Jews.

Rosen and Beir focus on a single proposition: for Roos-evelt, winning the war was key to saving Jews. For Rosen, that goal was sufficient and FDR did what he could to rescue Jews. For Beir, that goal was insufficient, and FDR failed the Jews. Beir said of Roosevelt, “Great people are not great all the time (270).” Together, these books summarize and docu-ment the debate over FDR and the Holocaust and provide in-sight the nature of that debate.

Left: Students tour the exhibit on loan from the Illinois Holo-caust Museum and Education Center. Below: The Jewish Fed-eration mourns the loss of Gene Berger. He spoke in March to students who attended “Diary of Anne Frank” at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster.

LEST WE FORGETHolocaust Exhibit educates area students

Roosevelt and the Jews: Authors consider his role

By Rabbi Michael N. StevensThis March, Temple Beth-El had a wonderful

congregational visit to Israel. Fifteen members of the congregation, joined by seven of their relatives, enjoyed a full and satisfying thirteen-day excur-sion. With the first and last days devoted entirely to travel, we spent eleven days in Israel.

Our trip, more than two years in the planning, was organized by ARZAWorld Travel, the touring department of ARZA, the Association of Reform Zi-onists in America. Debbie Feinberg, a member of Temple Beth-El and a professional travel agent, worked closely with both ARZAWorld and our tour group to plan our visit, as we modified the “stan-dard” eleven-day itinerary to meet the needs and wishes of our participants. With help from Michael Steinberg, Carol Culberg, and Oded Fromovitz, we came to Israel with at least a beginner’s sense of what to expect. The result was a rigorous but ful-filling visit.

For most of us, this was our first visit to Israel; for all of us, this was a very rich and rewarding ex-perience. Each day was filled with visiting places of historical, religious, and archeological impor-tance, with very little unscheduled time during our entire visit. We were literally within yards of Israel’s borders with the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, and a short distance from the Syrian and Jorda-nian borders. We visited Independence Hall in Tel Aviv, hearing the recording of Ben Gurion’s pro-claiming Israel’s independence in the very cham-ber in which the historic proclamation was read; a secret munitions factory near Sderot, the ar-

cheological remains at Yaffo (Jaffa), Cae-saria, and Akko; the Janco Dada Mu-

seum in the artists’ colony at Ein Hod, named after the Romanian Dada artist Marcel Janco, the uncle of our Temple member and tour participant Jerry Janco; the artists colony and medieval synagogues in Tzfat (Safed); the Western Wall, and the Jewish Quarter, in the Old City of Jerusalem, and the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum; and Massada and the Dead Sea.

And we visited our community’s Partnership Re-gion in the Western Galilee, along the Mediterra-nean Sea between Haifa and the Lebanese border. We took a tour of the Western Galilee Hospital, a large hospital complex known for having complete medical and surgical facilities underground as well as above ground, in case patients need to be evacu-ated in an emergency. We spent a couple of delight-ful hours at the elementary school in the Western Galilee to which our Purim mishlo’ach manot gifts were sent, and where the students assembled the gifts for Israel soldiers.

We heard a number of speakers, each of whom spoke passionately about what living in Israel means to them and to Jews around the world: a speaker at Independence Hall, whose personal ac-count of living in post-Independence-War Israel was even more emotional than the video which encapsulated the Israel of modern Israel; an army veteran at Kibbutz Misgav Am, virtually across the street from Lebanon, whose autobiography liv-ing within shooting distance of Lebanon paralleled the history of the State; my former Bar Mitzvah student, Andrew Zusman, who came to Israel for a summer visit a number of years ago, stayed in the country, made Aliyah, and recently completed his service in the Israeli Army; and Anat Hoffman, the

director of the Israel Religious Action Center, who spoke about struggles of Reform and Conservative Jews to achieve full religious rights in Israel.

The two Israelis with whom we spent the great-est amount of time added immeasurably to the enjoyment of our trip. Our tour guide, Sharon, a British immigrant to Israel, has been a graduate student majoring in Israel Studies and archeology, a high school history teacher, and professional tour guide. Her knowledge of Israeli history and geog-raphy was astounding. With her great knowledge, kindness, and sense of humor, she was delightful. Our bus driver, Avi, was not only an excellent driv-er, but totally gregarious, greeting each of us each time we got on the bus with a rousing “Hello, my brother!” or “Hello, my sister!”

We saw three-thousand-year-old ruins and mod-ern hotels, office buildings and shopping malls, almost side by side. We attended beautiful and uplifting Shabbat services at Reform congrega-tions in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. We enjoyed lavish breakfasts and dinners in ultra-modern hotels, in Tel Aviv, Haifa, Kibbutz Kfar Blum, and Jerusa-lem. We met with creators of incredible works of art in Safed, Ein Hod, and Jerusalem. Some of us met with friends or relatives, in a few instances for the first time. Most of us brought back artworks, jewelry, and beautiful fabrics, clothes, and acces-sories. And each of us came home with memories, and inspiration, to last a lifetime.

I hope each of you will have the opportunity to visit Israel, whether on a congregational tour, a Federation-sponsored mission, or a personal visit, and to see first-hand this exciting chapter in Jew-ish history, the modern State of Israel.

9Illiana News June 2010 Sivan/Tammuz 5770

Rabbi Michael Stevens and Andrew Zus-man, a former Temple Beth El member who is now an Israeli citizen, enjoy dinner at a Yemenite restaurant in Tel Aviv.

Above and below: Stu-dents at the Hofei HaGelil Elementary School in the Western Galilee. Temple Beth El’s Religious School teacher Jordan Mayer has a “Pen Pal” program to connect the two schools.

Judy Stevens take a ride on a camel.

Linda and Dan Dunn with the Western Wall behind them.

From l.: Sharon Gill, Maxine Schwartz, Jason Horn, Judy Stevens, Tour Educator Sharon Wagner-Zauder, Saralyn Feinberg, Pat and Jerry Janco and Henry Feinberg in Akko–Cru-sader City.

Temple Beth-El travels to Israel

FOR REAL TIME FEDERATION INFORMATION GO TO www.federationonline.org


Tepper hits for Chi-town Maccabis in ‘Mile Chai’ city

Charles DeCesarisCharles DeCesaris, son of Faye and Da-vid, and brother to Caren and Danielle,

will be called to the To-rah on July 24, at Tem-ple Israel in Gary.Charles is in the sev-enth grade at Wilbur Wright Middle School in Munster where he plays violin in the or-chestra and reached the state-level compe-tition in team and in-dividual chess compe-

titions as part of the Munster Knights Chess Club. He is a member of the school French Club and regularly competes at the club level in Saber Fencing. Charles consistently takes part in every mitzvah opportunity at Temple Israel, home, school and in the community, most recently helping to pack supplies for Haitian earthquake victims.Friends and family will travel to NW Indiana to celebrate this simcha with Charles and proud parents and siblings.

Dana HandlerDana Handler, daughter of Becky and Steve Handler and sister to Aaron, was

called to the Torah on May 15, at Congrega-tion Beth Israel.Dana is a 7th grade high honor roll stu-dent at Wilbur Wright Middle School. She enjoys playing tennis and softball, as well as acting. During the summer, she attends

The Glen camp in Decauter, Mich.For her mitzvah project, Dana and her

friend Rachel Gross designed and sold note cards. They raised $1,400 to be di-vided between The Jewish Federation and S.C.O.P.E. to provide scholarships to help send children to camp this summer. Dana would like to thank everyone who helped support this project.

Allison Kyla LevinAllison Kyla Levin, daughter of Tom and Heather Levin and sister to Carly and

Matthew, was called to the Torah on April 24, at Congregation Beth Israel. Allison is the granddaughter of Sidney and Ruth Levin of St. Louis. She is a 7th grader at Wilbur Wright Middle School. Allison enjoys art and music and

plays clarinet in the school band and plays guitar and takes singing lessons. Allison has always been interested in helping others and for her Mitzvah proj-ect, She collected DVDs which were do-nated to Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago. She enjoys bike riding and spending time with friends and sum-mers at Camp Young Judaea

Marcus Evan LevitanMarcus Evan Levitan was called to the Torah on March 6 at Temple Beth-El.

Marc is the son of Ginger and Rory Lev-itan and brother to Lorin and Dana. Marc is a 7th grade honor roll student at Wilbur Wright Middle School.For his mitzvah proj-ect, Marc focused on helping homeless peo-ple. He volunteered at

St. Joseph’s soup kitchen in Hammond. He also prepared a meal and collected men’s clothing for the Men’s Mission in downtown Hammond. Marc would like to thank everyone who helped him by donating to this worthy cause.

Josephine Dana TolinJosephine Dana Tolin, daughter of Hal and Rosanne Tolin of Valparaiso and sis-ter to Jack, 11, Danny, 9, and AJ, 4, was called to the Torah on May 29, at 10 a.m. at Temple Israel, Valparaiso.Josephine is the granddaughter of Dr. Elliot and Joann Gellman of St. Louis, and Babe and Bob Tolin of Cleveland, OH.She is in the 7th grade at Chesterton Middle School where she participates in cross country, swimming, and track.During the summer, Josephine will vol-unteer at Stagecoach Horse Stables and attend Purdue University Swim Camp.

By Nancy Coltun WebsterMUNSTER—With a baseball bat as his ham-

mer, Brandon Tepper, 14, becomes a Maccabi this summer for JCC Chicago.The team will travel to Denver to compete

against baseball teams from all over the U.S. in the 2010 JCC Maccabi Games.Tepper’s parents, Steve and Mary Beth, say

their son has had a baseball in his hand since he was a baby. He played ball for Munster Lit-tle League and as a 10-year-old, traveled with his All-Star team to state where they took third place.Today Tepper plays third base and pitches for

the Region Redbirds, based in Northwest Indi-ana and South Chicago. The team is among the top-ranked in the Midwest elite level. Since the

team was organized five years ago it has cranked more than 400 wins, according to Steve. Brandon found his way to the Maccabi team as

he was searching for a basketball league.“My dad was looking on the Anita Stone JCC

Web site to see if there was a basketball league I could play in and saw the link for the Maccabi games and that the baseball tryouts were going to be soon. We went to the first tryout in early March at an indoor baseball facility called Fro-zen Ropes on Touhy Avenue in Chicago,” he said. Tepper was invited back the following week.Teens ages 13 to 16 from all over the U.S. will

compete in 14 different Olympic-style events in Baltimore, Denver and Omaha.For more information about the JCC Macabbi

games visit www.gomacabbi.com.

Brandon Tepper.14, heads to Denver with JCC Chicago.

Area congregations celebrate spring B’nai Mitzvahs

Share your Engagement, Wedding, Bnai Mitzvah Announcementsand any other good news.

Call The Federation at 219-922-4024

10

EUGENE BERGERage 87 of Munster. passed

away Saturday, March 27, at the Community Hospital in Munster. He is survived by one loving son, Lenny (Sandy) Berger; three loving daugh-ters: Margaret Schiller, Rosalie (Don) Levinson and Deborah (Joe Broido) Berger; six grand-children: Tamar, Shana, Dan-iel, Beni, Erin, and Hannah; five great grandchildren; niece, Rosalie Ruff and several neph-ews. Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen. DR. MILTON BLANDERage 82 of South Holland, Ill.,

passed away May 11. He is sur-vived by his loving wife, Carol; two loving daughters: Kath-erine Blander of Philadelphia and Alice Blander of Chicago; three sons: Dr. Benjamin (Luba) Blander, Daniel Blander and Dr. Joshua (Jennifer) Blander; 12 grandchildren; stepchildren: Kurt (Suzie) Slavick, Debo-rah (Jose) Castellvi, Stephen Slavick and Susan Slavick; and many nieces and nephews. Dr. Blander served in the U.S. Army. He had many scientific friends all over the world. He was a very wise man. He will be dearly missed by his loving family and many friends.

BEATRICE FARBER age 79 of Munster, passed

away on Sunday, March 21. She is survived by her sister, Annette Fingert; niece, Nadine (Paul) Gilbert; nephews, Jay (Stephanie) and Jeff Fingert; great-nephews, Zachary Gil-bert, Evan and Tyler Fingert. Preceded in death by her hus-band, Henry Farber.

BOB GOODMAN age 82 of Munster, passed away

on Tuesday, April 13. He is sur-vived by his wife of 54 years, Dana; sons: Marc (Deborah) and Bubba (Amy) Goodman; daughter, Leslie (Anthony) Smith; cherished grandchil-dren: Erin, Matthew, Dylan and Bailey Goodman, Megan and Rachel Smith. Preceded in death by his parents: Morris and Luba; and brothers: Phil-lip and Harold Goodman. Bob was a graduate of East Chicago Washington High School Class of 1945. He went to Indiana University and then on to But-ler where he earned a B.S. de-gree in the school of Pharmacy. He owned and operated the Goodman Drug Co. in East Chi-cago and the Prescription Coun-

ter in Dyer. Bob was a member of the American Society of Con-sultant Pharmacist and served as a consultant and pharmacist to a number of nursing homes in Lake County.

BETTY JANE BARTON GUBITZpassed away February 28, in

Knoxville, Tenn., where she had lived since June 2007, moving from Boynton Beach, Fla. where she had resided for 15 years. A former resident of Hammond and Munster, she retired from Marshall Field’s River Oaks specializing in furniture sales and interior design. She was the widow of Charles Gubitz with whom she shared 47 years of marriage. She was a great cook, entertainer, party giver, loved to travel, and made sure her sons, Jeffrey and Richard, were pro-vided all the tools and opportu-nities to be successful in today’s world. From their first house, a 950 square foot tract house in Hammond, she went on to own and renovate several beautiful homes in Indiana and Florida, including the total renovation of a historic home built in 1848 in Newburgh, Ind. She is preceded in death by her parents: Jacob and Jeanette Barton; husband, Charles Gubitz; sister, Flossie Sosin. She is survived by her sons: Jeff (Charlene) of Knox-ville; Rick (Michele) of Crown Point; grandchildren: Ron and Leslie of St. Louis; Jennifer of New York; Leslie Gubitz of Bloomington, Ind. Michael, Sara, Sam and Carly Gubitz of Crown Point; brother, Harold Barton of Los Angeles; numer-ous nephews; grand nephews; grandnieces and cousins all around the U.S.

JOHN A. HUDACINage 81, of Cedar Lake, passed

away Thursday March 4. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Edna; children: Timothy (Diane) Hudacin of Schererville, Rob-ert (Sheri) Hudacin of Lowell, Victoria (Dave) Parsons of Ed-wardsburg, Mich., Linda (Mike) Sternberg of Crown Point and John (best friend, Lana Iwanus) Hudacin of Lowell; 14 grand-children and six great grand-children. Also sisters: Margaret Hudson of California and Helen Stachon of Schererville and brothers-in-law: Wayne Mize of Washington, Ind., and Stanley (Mary Ellen) Mize of St. John, and several nieces and neph-ews. Mr. Hudacin was retired from Pepsi Cola after 30 years

of service. He enjoyed traveling, golfing and being surrounded by his family and teasing his grandchildren. JAMES A. IMBODYage 70, of Fort Wayne, passed

away Sunday, Feb. 28, at his home. Born in Fort Wayne, he worked as a Drywaller with Im-body Drywall for 30 years, retir-ing in 1990. He loved working with his hands, remodeling, fix-ing up homes, and playing cards with his friends. Surviving are his companion, Bettye Roberts; daughters, Patty (Tim) Roberts and Brenda (Renee) Galbraith; granddaughter, Jamie (Chris) Wilson; sister, Patty Jacobson of Highland; brother, Jean Im-body of Fort Wayne; sister, Nan-cy (Wayne) Anderson of Florida; brothers, Eddie Arruza and John (Millie) Arruza; and sis-ters, Sue Dunn, Lita Riley and Rosie Moore. He was preceded in death by his father, Cyrus Imbody; mother, Ruth Imbody; and brother, Dan Imbody.

HERBERT LASSERage 81, died Wednesday March

17. Beloved husband of Jo for 50 years; loving father of Da-vid (Rona) Lasser and Lau-ra E. Lasser-Stein; beloved grandfather of Mallory and Kate Lasser and Sam Stein. Preceded in death by his par-ents: Abe and and Ella Lasser; brother, Leonard Lasser, Dolly (Morton) Koch, Millie (Mickey) Weiss. Proud uncle of Phyliss Koch Sheras, Janice Koch Lib-bin, Roz Wolff, Debbie Gordon, Fred and Don Weiss; and patri-arch to Jo’s family. Mr. Lasser was a member of Temple Israel, 1946 graduate of Horace Mann, Valparaiso University, JD Law, 1953. Ever outspoken and liv-ing life to its fullest, he raised his family at Lakes of the Four Seasons, where he relished golf and boating. He practiced law for nearly 60 years in NW In-diana and Chicago. He and his family enjoyed Chicago’s cul-ture and sports; symphony, op-era, LPZoo, University Club, museums, Cubs, Sox, Bulls, and Bears. Herb’s “Joi de Vie” was evidenced in his toys, world travel, golf, snooker, gin and casinos. Herb lived his final 14 years joyously at Sand Creek, Chesterton. He was the most optimistic man in the world. At 81, he began his final busi-ness endeavor, Rimsmith Tool to compensate for his penchant for bad parking and hitting pot-holes.

DR. SHERMAN P. LIPTONage 90, of Munster, passed

away on Friday, Feb. 26. Dr. Sherman Lipton, long-time den-tist in Chicago and Northwest Indiana was a kind, gentle, sweet man; warm and loving, and genuinely compassionate and caring. Known for the smile on his face, the twinkle in his eye and his great sense of hu-mor, he was preceded in death his beloved wife, Dorothy; by his parents, Dr. Myron I. Lifschutz and Esther Lifschutz, both of Chicago, IL; and by his brother, Dr. Earle Lipton of Syracuse; he is survived by his loving sons, Alan Robert of Valparaiso and James Merrill of Muster; and by his adoring grandchildren, Bradley, Joshua, Evan, Lauren and Alex Lipton.

PAMELA POGACH(nee Rothstein)age 56 of Munster, passed away

April 10, after a seven year bat-tle with breast cancer. She is survived by her loving husband, Ken; one daughter, Amanda; one brother, Barry (Honey-Rose) Rothstein; sisters: Shellie Rothstein and Fran Rothstein; two nieces: Maya Rothstein and Amy Pogach; one nephew, Joel Pogach. Pam was a graduate of Purdue University Calumet. She loved to travel and spend time with her family, friends and cats.Federation expresses its con-

dolences to Esther and Jerry Rothstein on the loss of their daughter, Pam Pogach.

MARTIN SHAPIROage 90 of Munster, passed away

Wednesday, April 21, at Spring-mill Health Campus in Merrill-ville. He was the beloved hus-band of the late Mildred; loving father of Ila Southworth, Stacy (Richard) Mayer and Neil (Lin-da) Shapiro; cherished grandfa-ther of Lael, Lucas and Rebecca Southworth, Michael (Amy), Blake (Amy) and Jordan Mayer, Ariel and Joel Shapiro; great-grandfather of Madeline; dear brother of Lorraine (Jack) Sha-piro, Shyrlene (Sidney) Weiner and the late Beverly (Roy) Pol-lack; and brother-in- law of Lois (Robert) Berliner. Martin was the former owner of Art’s Store for Men in East Chicago, and was previously employed by the Lake County Indiana Health Department. He was proud to be an Army veteran, serving his country in WWII. Martin will be missed by many caring friends and relatives.

Illiana News June 2010 Sivan/Tammuz 5770 11

TBI-GaryContinued from P. 5 well-known academic. The

Carl Miller Lecture Series was proud to present this acclaimed writer. John Navarro chaired the wonderful breakfast; he has been our chef for the past several years and we look for-ward to his innovative menus.

The Adult Education Group continues to meet the last Tuesday of each month, and, in addition, they will also show some light, but outstanding films over the summer months. Films to be shown on Sunday morning and the community is welcome. Call the Temple for further information.

Confirmation was held May 21. The three confirmants

were Moe Giglio, son of Lisa and Michael Giglio, Max Passo, son of Evelyn and Herb Passo, and Josh Roman, son of Wendy and Dean Roman.

In October—changed to the weekend of 22, 23, 24—we will be celebrating our 100th anni-versary and we are busy mak-ing plans for a very special weekend cel-ebration. There will be a guest speaker for our Shabbat Service, reunion of confirmants on Saturday after-noon, catered dinner Saturday evening, and on Sunday, for those who wish, a visit to the cemetery before the “good bye” breakfast.

CBI Continued from P. 5

Sisterhood also hosted the closing luncheon on May 11. CBI now displays “Lifelights,” inspirational pamphlets to of-fer resources and comfort for the stress of everyday life. And

don’t forget to “think spring”; buy your summer flowers and plants from Zandstra’s in High-land. Mazal tov to our Bnai Mitzvah, Samantha Berg, Ra-chel Gross, Dana Handler. Al-lison Levin. Don’t forget to visit our web site at www. cbi-nwi.org. for future information.

Every one of the services offeredby the Federation is staffed in part by volunteers just like you.

AFC: Join our volunteers as they help to prepare and serve hot kosher meals twice a week for our senior citizens of the Adult Friendship Club. The AFC offers a won-derful opportunity for people to socialize and have a nutritious meal. We also offer “Chat with Judy,” music, programs, speakers of interest, the Lyric Opera Series, safe-ty in homes, visits from Rabbis, transportation for doctor visits, grocery shopping and lunch out. Holiday celebrations.

PRIME TIMERS: Active senior volunteers gather to plan monthly social programs. Federation provides eco-nomical transportation to local programs and throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.

JCY CAMP: Volunteers and paid staff work together to create a high-quality private summer camp for kids K-6th.

K’TON TON: Our volunteer Preschool Com-mittee is devoted to assisting the staff of our Preschool and summer programs by organizing book fairs, hosting preschool graduation, offer-ing monthly parenting discussions and more.

NOAR: Teen youth group.

TODA RABBAH: Adult volunteers supervise Youth Programs for K-6th grade. Social events and Tzedekah programs.

MANNA CABANA: All donations to the food pantry are provided by volunteers. Some volun-teers stop by with contri-butions. Others organize mass donations via Mitzvah projects or other community-based food drives. This pantry pro-vides food for the needy throughout the year.

To volunteer for, or utilize anyFederation programs, call

219-922-4024 Michael Steinberg, Executive Director

Carol Szaks, JCS Directorwww.federationonline.org


A Word From Our Sponsor:“Thou Shall Not Be Lonely”

The Jewish Federation Non-Profit Organization 585 Progress Avenue U.S. Postage Paid Munster, IN 46321 The Jewish Federation, Inc. Dyer, IN Permit 2118

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