OpinionPost&Volume 77, Number 11 • September 28, 2011 • 29 Elul 5771

www.jewishpostopinion.com

The Jewish Indiana Edition

(See Tour de Shuls, p.2)

If you didn’t get to hear The Yuval RonEnsemble when they played in Indy onSept. 20 at the JCC and Sept. 21 at theCentral Library downtown, you missed agood concert of Middle Eastern music. Ididn’t make the first concert but I attendedthe second evening’s “Sacred Music of theMiddle East”that was held on World Peace Day.

The evening started with a few briefspeeches from representatives of the threeAbrahamic religions, one from MayorBallard’s office and one from a libraryworker. The Jewish speaker was GadiBoukai who spoke on behalf of the JewishCommunity Relations Council.

Afterward, a short film on the origin ofWorld Peace Day was shown. In 1981, theUnited Nations agreed to make Sept 21 anannual 24-hour call for ceasefires andnon-violence, and a day for UN agenciesand aid organizations to safely carry outlife-saving work.

After the film and before the concert alocal band, City Squirrels played the song“Imagine” by John Lennon. Lead singerErnest Lewis was joined by Tim Nationand Charlie Wiles. Wiles is co-founder of the Peace Learning Center and directorof the International Interfaith PeaceInitiative. Also from Indianapolis, JamillaAli, a multi-talented belly dancer,performed during the concert.

Independently and through his work inmusic, Yuval Ron actively promotes peaceand goodwill.Yuval is the musical directorand oud player for The Yuval Ron Ensemble,which includes Arabic, Jewish and Christianartists who unite the sacred music traditionsof Judaism, Sufism and the ArmenianChurch into an unusual mystical, spiritualand inspiring musical celebration.

The Ensemble got the audience singing,dancing, and hand-clapping, but inbetween the songs, the room was quietwhile Ron shared little bits of wisdom. Hesaid that Jewish music and that of otherreligions takes on the style of the locationwhere the musicians live. Therefore, eventhough the group played Jewish, Christianand Muslim music, it all sounded MiddleEastern. If it weren’t for recognizing a few Hebrew words and also hearing inadvance what the songs were going to be,I wouldn’t have been able to tell whichsongs came from which religion.

Later in the concert, Ron spoke about allthe wonderful achievements happening inthe Middle East in different areas such aseducation, medicine, technology and soforth. On a basic level there is tasty cuisine,diverse clothing, competitive sports andsuch. At the same time, there is a lot ofdarkness in the area. Continuing in his

2 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

Editorial Inside this Issue

1427 W. 86th St. #228Indianapolis, IN 46260email: jpostopinion@gmail.comphone and fax: (317) 405-8084website: www.jewishpostopinion.com

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calm, soft spoken voice, he commentedthat some people think that the way todiminish that darkness is with more darkness, but he doesn’t agree.

Yuval Ron believes the way to diminishthe darkness is with light and that is whathis group does with their music. They travel around infusing light by highlightingthe commonalities of the different religionsand bringing them together for a joyful

and uplifting experience. May the groupcontinue to do so for many years. Checkout the website of Ron and The Ensembleat www.yuvalronmusic.com. See photosfrom the concert on page 16.

Mazel Tov to: Leslie Abrams andMatthew Tobe on their marriage Sept. 4,2011. Leslie is the daughter of Dr. Johnand Diane Abrams, and Matthew is theson of Stephen Tobe and Judy Tobe.

Condolences to: Tom Steiman-Cameronand family on the death of his belovedmother Lucille Cameron; Steve Steinkelerand family on the death of his belovedmother Ruth Steinkeler; and to the familyof Jack Alboher.

In the last issue I wrote about the perseverance and dedication of Jewishresidents who lived their entire lives inIndianapolis and who turned 90 in thepast year. One of those mentioned wasJack Alboher who died on Sept. 20.Another one who turned 90 in Februarythat I forgot to mention was RuthSteinkeler who died on Sept. 9.

The two came from very different Jewish traditions, Jack was Sephardic andbelonged to Etz Chaim and Ruth wasAshkenazic, a member of Beth-El Zedeck.They were similar in that they both gavelife their all until they breathed their lastbreath. Both set examples by improvingthe quality of life in this city with theirfamily businesses, ongoing hard work,Jewish observances and raising Jewishchildren. They will be sorely missed.

Jennie Cohen, September 28, 2011 AAAA

Tour de Shuls ..................................CoverEditorial.....................................................2IHS: “Making a Jewish Home” ............3Community Events .................................4Congregation Beth Shalom ...................5Rabbi Nadia Siritsky Interview ...........6Mr. Blair’s Open Mic Night ..................6Obituaries .................................................8Rabbi Steven M. Leapman ..................11Birthright trip with Chabad ................12Rabbi Mitchell Kornspan ....................13On This Date in Jewish History.........13“Music@Shaarey Tefilla” .....................15Hollyhock Hill enters Hall of Fame ..15

Tour de Shuls – Indykickoff is a blast

With a mighty blast of multiple shofars,the cyclists of Tour de Shuls, the firstannual ride of greater Indianapolis, wasoff. Under gray, rainy skies, but with colors bright and spirits high, young ridersas well as those with many miles undertheir treads, casual cyclists, and hard coreenthusiasts alike, gathered in support ofHillels across the state at CongregationShaarey Tefilla in Carmel (this year’s hostsynagogue) on Sunday morning, Sept. 25.

The Tour attracted 130 registered participants for 5-, 20-, and 40-mile ridesthrough Carmel, Westfield, and Sheridan.The riders and volunteers from across the Jewish community came out in fullforce representing all Indianapolis areasynagogues to raise money for and awareness of Hillels on college campusesthroughout the state of Indiana. “Hillelprovides a center of Jewish life on collegecampuses for our children away from home.We wanted to support their activities and show them that the Indianapoliscommunity is appreciative and supportiveof their efforts,” said Jay Perler, one of the Tours’ brainchildren and organizers.Hillels at eight campuses will benefit fromthis event – Ball State University, ButlerUniversity, DePauw University, EarlhamCollege, Indiana University, IUPU-Indianapolis, Purdue University, andUniversity of Indianapolis.

“One of the most exciting things aboutTour de Shuls is that virtually the entireorganized Jewish community cametogether to raise money for a commoncause – the Hillel chapters on Indiana college campuses,” said Rabbi BenjaminSendrow of Congregation Shaarey Tefilla.“At Shaarey Tefilla, we are proud to be thefirst host congregation for what I hope willbecome an annual Indianapolis tradition.This is Jewish community at its best.”Along with Rabbi Sendrow, Rabbis Dennisand Sandy Sasso of Congregation Beth El-Zedeck, and Rabbi Brett Krichiver ofIndianapolis Hebrew Congregation weretremendous forces in arousing their

j i (see Tour de Shuls, page 15)

September 28, 2011 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN 3

Indiana Historical Societyprepares to open “You Are There 1950:Making a Jewish Home”

The Indiana Historical Society (IHS)will tell a family’s story of tragedy, courageand new beginnings with You Are There1950: Making a Jewish Home, which will beopen Tues., Oct. 11, through Sept. 29,2012. The Eugene and Marilyn GlickIndiana History Center, home of the IHSand its Indiana Experience, is located at 450W. Ohio St. in downtown Indianapolis.

The “You Are There” element of theIndiana Experience allows guests to stepthrough – and into – an IHS collectionsphotograph that has been recreated three-dimensionally. In Making a Jewish Home,guests can visit Berek (Benny) and Frania(Fanny) Kaplan’s Union Street home in asouth-side Indianapolis neighborhood on April 5, 1950, just a year after theirresettlement from a post-World War II displaced persons camp. The recreatedscene at the History Center features Fannyladling soup to serve for a family meal. Inthe new experience, guests will join Mrs.Kaplan as she prepares a kosher meal andat the same time learn how Hoosier

hospitality helped the Kaplans create anew home.

Having known of one another as distantrelatives before the war and after havinglost most of their families during theHolocaust, Benny and Fanny reconnectedand married in Poland after the liberation.They then spent three years in a displacedpersons camp in Germany after the end ofWorld War II. Jewish Social Services in Indianapolis financed the family’s relocation, including their two young children, to the United States in 1949 andhelped them settle in.

The authenticity of the “You Are There” recreations hinge on not just thedevelopment of the physical space, butalso on the real-life characters (portrayedby interpreters) who could really havebeen present in that particular place at thetime the photograph was taken. Guestswill have a chance to meet not only the Kaplans, but also Nathan Berman(head of Indianapolis’ Jewish SocialServices), Tekla Wolf (a leader in theUnited Services for New Americans),Charlotte Epstein (an English translator/tutor), Rosemary Marie Hessman (aCatholic neighbor and Shabbos helper)and Carolyn Tucker (a census worker fromthe area).

The William H. Smith Memorial Library

is home to an extensive collection ofarchival materials that detail the story ofJewish communities in Indianapolis andaround the state, including more than 40manuscript collections and more than adozen printed collections. In addition toinvaluable assistance from many localindividuals and organizations, RosieKaplan (daughter of Benny and Fanny)was instrumental in bringing the scene tolife – from anecdotes about her childhoodto sharing the ladle and dishes featured inthe photograph for exact reproduction.

Beyond an exhibit, Making a Jewish Homewill serve as a meaningful humanitiesresource and a launching platform for avariety of contemporary discussions onHoosier philanthropy, humanitarian outreach and Indiana’s diverse culturalheritage. IHS will host programs that connect the themes of this “You Are There”to contemporary issues.

“You Are There 1950: Making a JewishHome” is being presented with supportfrom The Ackerman Foundation, CitizensEnergy Group, and Indiana Humanities in cooperation with the NationalEndowment for the Humanities. For moreinformation on this and other IHS programs, call (317) 232-1882 or visitwww.indianahistory.org.

(see IHS, page 13)

4 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

featuring the history of the BJE by RabbiPaula Winnig and Marilyn Roger.

Reservations are required for the dairybrunch. The cost of the brunch, catered byBluebakes, is $20 per person. To makereservations, please send your check to theIJHS, 6301 Constitution Dr., Fort Wayne,IN 46804. Please list the names of thoseplanning to attend the brunch.The deadlinefor making reservations is Tues., Oct. 18.

The meeting will begin at 12:00 p.m.:with welcome, introductions and brunch.IJHS board members will be available tocollect new archive material for our collections at the Indiana HistoricalSociety. Please have all documents and/or photos identified and in protectiveenvelopes.At 1:30 p.m., a program featuringthe history of the BJE will be presented byRabbi Paula Winnig and Marilyn Roger.Copies of the recent publication Bondsas Strong as Steel: A history of Indianascrap metal dealers and their familieswill be available for purchase. For moreinformation, email Indiana.jhs@frontier.comor call 260-459-6862.

Ramah Outdoor AdventureRamah Outdoor Adventure, the only

Kosher Outdoor Adventure camp in thecountry with an intensive Jewish program,is currently enrolling children age 8–15 forthe 2012 camping season as well as teensage 16 & 17 for a leadership training program. Located on a majestic, 360 acrealpine ranch, Ramah Outdoor Adventureis located in the heart of the one million

acre Pike National Forest, only 90 milesfrom Denver. Campers from across thecountry are invited to experience the greatoutdoors with mountain biking, whitewaterrafting, rock climbing, horseback riding,farming, pioneer crafts, wilderness survival and much more!

Come meet their 2011 program director,Dan Buonaiuto on Sun., Oct. 23 at 7 p.m.Congregation Shaarey Tefilla, 3085 West116th St., Carmel, Ind. RSVP: 733-2169.

Kosher refreshments will be served. CampDirector Rabbi Eliav Bock can be reachedat the Camp Ramah Office 303/261-8214 orwww.ramahoutdoors.org/?page_id=229.

NOTE: The Jewish Federation ofGreater Indianapolis offers scholarshipsfor first time campers for a Jewish campexperience: www.jfgi.org/page.aspx?id=164940. Shoshana Harper, mom to RamahOutdoor Adventure Camper Nadav, canbe reached at shoshi40@hotmail.com.

Jewish lawyersJewish lawyers group meets for lunch

on the fourth Wednesday of each month.The next meeting is Oct. 26 at Shapiro’sdowntown at 12:15 p.m. Presently thegroup’s leaders are Irwin Levin, Zeff Weissand Elliot Levin. For more informationcontact Elliot at edl@rubin-levin.net.

JCC Business NetworkThe next meeting will be on Nov. 16, at

the JCC, 6701 Hoover Rd. RSVP to LarryRothenberg lrothenberg@jccindy.org orcall 317-715-9233. AAAA

Jewish Bereavement Group The Albert & Sara Reuben Senior and

Community Resource Center began abereavement group in partnership withCommunity Home Health Services, a partof the Community Health Network. Thisbereavement group, which has a Jewishperspective and is facilitated by RabbiBruce Pfeffer, is open to all. Questionsshould be directed to Julie Sondhelm at317-259-6822 x6. Meeting dates and timesare: First Thursday of each month from7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. and the Third Mondayof each month from 10 a.m.–11:30 a.m.

An Evening of Art & Jazz Join Hadassah on Sat., Oct. 15, for a

fabulous evening of art, music, food andwine! “An Evening of Art & Jazz” will feature live jazz performances, artists displaying and selling their work, a terrificsilent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and wine-tasting! Proceeds from this eventwill benefit Hadassah Hospital, so inviteyour family, your friends, your neighbors –everyone you know! – to join us for a greatevening. The “Evening” will take place inthe Laikin Auditorium at the JCC and runfrom 7–10 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance;$30 at the door. So mark your calendarsnow and help us kick off Hadassah’s centennial year celebrations with music,art, and a lot of fun! For more information,call 317-475-4278 or go to www.hadassah.org/IndyArtAndJazz.

Joshua Nelson,“The Prince of Kosher Gospel”

Joshua Nelson, a Black Jew, is undeniably the “Prince of Kosher Gospel.”Nelson crosses cultural divides and unitespeople in song and spirit. Accompanied bymusicians and 3 back-up singers, Nelsonwill perform two stellar concerts at theJCC Sat., Oct. 22, 7 p.m. and Sun, Oct. 23,3 p.m. Nelson’s gospel interpretations offamiliar Jewish prayers and songs willhave the audience singing along anddancing in the aisles…just as he doeswherever he performs all over the world.Whether singing in Hebrew or English, it’sthe uplifting music and Nelson’s charismathat make for an unforgettable experience.

Indiana Jewish Historical SocietyAnnual Meeting and Brunch

The 2011 Annual Meeting and Brunchof the IJHS will be held at the IndianapolisBureau of Jewish Education on Sun., Oct.23 at noon. The program will highlight the100th anniversary of the IndianapolisBureau of Jewish Education. Archive materialand pictures from the past will be availablefor viewing, as well as a presentation

Community Events

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Peace fromstarting anew

As this edition of the Jewish Post &Opinion goes to press, the Hebrew monthof Elul is drawing to a close, with barely aweek before the Days of Awe are upon us.We are rarely ready for the moment theErev Rosh Hashanah service begins.

Our tradition recognizes how easy it isto lose track of time. The Hebrew calendaris full of personal and communal cycles –seasonal celebrations, the set schedule forTorah reading, and the annual process forintrospection, atonement, and forgiveness– each helping us slow down and reflecton where we are in our lives.

Elul – closely related to the word“search” in Aramaic – is the month thateases us slowly into what lies ahead.

Whether we understand the High Holydays literally as our opportunity to besealed in the Book of Life for another year, or metaphorically as the moment we consider what we have written andsealed for ourselves, the practice of looking inward, backward, and forward all at once is a powerful – and often overwhelming – one.

Our practices during this month ease usinto the shock of another year passing.From the first day of Elul until the last, weare to hear the sound of one shofar blasteach morning. Start paying attention!Don’t ignore your life! It’s not too late!This is our time to undertake a cheshbonha’nefesh, an accounting of our soul. It isalso customary to recite Psalm 27, whichcontains the phrase “One thing I ask ofGod, one thing I seek: to live in the houseof God all the days of my life.”

To live in God’s house, though, is not to live in a permanent structure of steeland cement. Rather, it is to live in an open,organic dwelling, a fragile place of ourown creation, using the materials at hand. We start building such a houseimmediately after coming out of YomKippur’s fast, out from a holiday of fasting and regrets into Sukkot, a holidayof pleasure and celebration.

We move from communal responsibilityfor all the ways we have failed ourselves aswell as each other to the many ways wecan dwell together. We eat, talk, sing, read,relax, welcome guests, and even snooze, inthis temporary home, a fitting address forall the feelings of vulnerability the HighHoly Days bring.

May the Days of Awe awaken and comfort you. May you find a seat in thehouse of God, and may we all find thepeace that comes with starting anew.

The board of Congregation Beth Shalom inBloomington, Ind. AAAA

6 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

which took root early on, when she gaveher father’s dollar bill to a homeless man.

Susan Lerner is a freelance writer livingin Indianapolis. She is working towards anMFA in Creative Writing and posts bookreviews at http://booklerner.blogspot.com. AAAA

fared better than those without such ties.Wanting to dedicate herself to building

community, she decided to work in a congregational setting, and served for sixyears as a rabbi in Louisville, Ky. She wentback to school for a Master’s degree inSocial Work (she already had a Master’sdegree in Hebrew Literature), and developedextensive community programming forolder adults, as well as working in hospiceas a bereavement counselor. A few yearslater, in order to counsel others even moreeffectively, she went back to school yetagain, to complete an interfaith Doctorateof Ministry in Pastoral Counseling program at Hebrew Union College.

“The incredible capacity of humans toovercome adversity is awe-inspiring. To bea rabbi is a privilege, one that allows me tonurture the parts that allow us to not onlysurvive, but thrive, and in so doing, toactualize the blessing that enables healingand renewal,”Rabbi Siritsky observed.

Siritsky appreciates everyday miracles,both big and small. “I like this idea that we are all one, all interconnected. I accompany people during their sacredmoments – baby namings; b’nai mitzvahs;funerals – and I also bear witness to theways God works in their everyday lives,”she remarked.

Rabbi Siritsky challenges herself to liveaccording to Rabbi Heschel’s teaching,striving to engage in this world with radical amazement, and to seek out God’spresence in everything. Her years of higher education have given her skills toact on her conviction to repair the world,

Seeking outGod’s presence

When Rabbi NadiaSiritsky, the new associaterabbi at IndianapolisHebrew Congregation,was a young child, she andher father came across ahomeless man. Her fatherhanded her a dollar bill and instructed herto give it to the man. This momentcemented Rabbi Siritsky’s tikkun olam-centered Jewish identity.

“I am mindful to be praying not onlywith my lips but with my heart and feet,”she said, explaining the impact of thissimple act. Rabbi Siritsky’s Holocaust-survivor father taught her many other lessons as well. She continued, “Heshowed me that there are many ways tobe a good Jew. I learned from his exampleto be grateful. Because my father lived agood life, despite knowing firsthand thatdeath could come anytime, I learned torespond to challenging circumstances notthrough fear, but through faith. I try to liveevery day to its fullest, as if each could bemy last.”

Rabbi Siritsky has a deep connection to the Classical Reform movement which,as one of its precepts unconditionally welcomes into the Jewish communityinterfaith couples.“Many of these couplesland at my doorstep after being turnedaway by many other rabbis. Faced withthis rejection, their determination trulyspeaks to their wish to find a connectionwith Judaism. I am moved, honored andprivileged to work with these couples.Their desire to include Judaism in theirlives should be something we learn from,and are inspired by, not a cause for judgment. It is a gift to be able to see yourself through someone else’s eyes,and to learn from one another,” RabbiSiritsky eloquently explained.

Rabbi Siritsky hails from Montreal, buthas learned, worked and lived in Israel,New York, Philadelphia and Louisville. Shewas one of only two Spanish-speakingchaplains at the Red Cross working atGround Zero immediately following 9/11,and remembers telling children that theirparents had died, and blessing the bodyparts brought to the city morgue of thosewho had perished. Moved by communityresponse to the tragedy, she said, “It’s inthe faces of people coming together to helpone another that I see the manifestation ofGod.” It was in the aftermath of 9/11 thatshe made an observation: those with connections to a larger faith community

BY SUSAN LERNER

Rabbi NadiaSiritsky

Mr. Blair’s Open Mic Night

Mr. Blair Karsch and the On Your LevelYouth Project will once again hostIndianapolis’s premiere youth open micevents, which have produced standing-room-only crowds at previous events. Thisis the largest all-city event with a focus onyouth expression through spoken word.There’s even room for adult performers asthe evening allows. Come one, come all.This event will be an open stage for allages to perform and practice any form ofspoken word entertainment. Poetry, prose,comedy, hip-hop, rap, acoustic music andmore are some of the most popular forms.Get there early to have a snack, drink, geta good seat and meet the artists.

Event Info.: Sat., Oct 1, 7–9:00 p.m.Starbucks, 2902 W. 86th St., (across fromBrebeuf Jesuit Preparatory High School);Mon., Oct. 4, 4:30–6:30 p.m., Pike Library,6525 Zionsville Rd. Indianapolis; Fri., Nov.18, 7–9:00 p.m., Starbucks (same addressas above); Sat., Dec. 3, 7–9:00 p.m. Brics,“The place to chill in Broad Ripple”, Onthe Monon Trail, 901 East 64th St. AAAA

j i

September 28, 2011 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN 7

Obituaries8 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

Samuel Greenberg, 63, died on June 1,2011 in the care of his loved ones. Heserved in the US Army from 1967–1969.Sam was a 1982 graduate of IndianaUniversity and received his Master degreefrom Pepperdine University in 1986. Samis survived by his loving parents, Harryand Rosalie Greenberg; his brothers,Daniel, Joel and Mark; a nephew, nieceand 2 great nephews. He will be deeplymissed by his devoted family. Funeralservices were held at Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary on June 3. Burial followed in B’nai Torah Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be made toSt. Vincent Hospice or to CongregationBeth El Zedeck. AAAA

Barbara Gloria Greenberg, 86,(Bobbie to her friends, Kiki to her grandchildren) died peacefully on June 4,2011. Bobbie was born in New York City toGeorge and Lillian Ungar on May 8, 1925.She grew up on the South side of Chicagothrough high school before moving toEvansville. Bobbie went on to attend theUniversity of Illinois.

She met the love of her life WhitneyGreenberg and enjoyed over 62 yearsmarriage. Beauty, class, charm and graceare words that only begin to describe whata sweet, caring, loving lady she was.

Bobbie did volunteer work for the IndianaSchool for the Blind and was also a modelfor L.S. Ayres in her younger years.

She is survived by her 3 sons Bruce(Peggy) Jim (Cheryl) and Greg (Shari) aswell as six grandchildren. Jonathan, Elliott,Michael, Caroline, Harrison and LillianGreenberg. Her sister in heart and spiritRose Simmons. Bobbie loved all thingsFrench from food to antiques but most ofall she loved her family and they will missher immensely. We would like to thank thededicated staff of Hooverwood for the lovingcare she received during the past year.

Funeral services were June 7 at Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. A private familyburial followed. Memorial contributions maybe made to Hooverwood Nursing Home,7001 Hoover Road Indianapolis, IN 46260or to the Alzheimer’s Association, http://www.alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp. AAAA

Sarah Draizar Sakowitz, 86, died June8, 2011. She was born in Indianapolis onNov. 30, 1924 to Abraham and Jennie(Marcus) Draizar. Sarah graduated fromShortridge High School in 1942. She married Sidney Sakowitz in 1947 and was a homemaker and beloved mother,grandmother and great grandmother.

Sarah was a member of CongregationBeth-El Zedeck and Congregation B’nai

Bette F. Jacobs, 76, died suddenly andunexpectedly on May 22, 2011. She wasborn to the late Melvin and Lena Weiss.She married Stanley R. Jacobs in 1957 andhe preceded her in death in 1988. She wasa graduate of Shortridge High School andIU Bloomington. She helped her husband,Stan, run his engineering business for 30years. She later worked in the accountingand mortgage industries. She is survivedby her loving son, Joseph C. Jacobs. Bettewas a member of the Indianapolis HebrewCongregation. Graveside services wereheld May 25 in Ohev Zedeck Cemetery,located in the 100 block of West KellyStreet on the Southside of Indianapolis. AAAA

Dillard W. “Buz” Howell II, 64, diedMay 28, of a massive stroke he sufferedthe day before on his beloved hobby farm in Greenfield. He was retired from Eli Lilly and Company after serving more than 20 years there as chief of global security. Before his tenure at Lilly,Mr. Howell served in the FBI for more than a decade as an expert hostagenegotiator, investigator, and trainer atQuantico, the FBI’s headquarters outsideWashington, D.C. He was a graduate ofUniversity of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, andearned his Master’s degree in journalismthere. An avid and accomplished golfer,Mr. Howell competed in the PGA foryears and retained many friendshipsamong professional golfers on the senior tour.

He is survived by his beloved wife,Joan (Schwartz); daughters Julie Taylor,Brooke (Ricky) Martin, and Abbey Howell,all of Florida; and Lauren Todd, Chicago;and son, Daniel Todd, Greenfield; his sister, Nancy (Frank) Kallinger,Indianapolis; his mother, Dorothy(Mathis) Howell, Indianapolis; and manybeloved pets, including dogs, cats andhorses, among which is his personalmount, “Dixie.” His father, Dillard W.“Dixie” Howell, and his brother, JeffHowell, preceded him in death.

A memorial gathering was held June 2,at Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. Privateinterment was at Oak Lawn Cemetery.Mr. Howell will be remembered most forhis generous spirit, grace under fire, andgenuine care for others, as well as his greatlove for his family. AAAA

Larisa Braslavskaya, 87, died May 30,2011. Graveside services were held May 31 in the Indianapolis Hebrew NorthCemetery. Arrangements entrusted toAaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. AAAA

May – July (More July – Sept. in the next issue)

High Holiday Service Date TimeSelichot Reception Saturday, September 24 8:30 pmSelichot Service Saturday, September 24 11:00 pmErev Rosh HaShanah Wednesday, September 28 6:30 pmRosh HaShanah Thursday, September 29 8:30 amTashlikh (Carmel West Park) Thursday, September 29 6:30 pm2nd Day Erev Rosh HaShanah Thursday, September 29 7:30 pm2nd Day Rosh HaShanah Friday, September 30 8:30 amErev Yom Kippur / Kol Nidre Friday, October 7 6:45 pmYom Kippur / Yizhkor Saturday, October 8 9:00 amYom Kippur / Mincha Saturday, October 8 5:15 pmYom Kippur / Neila, Maariv, Havdalah Saturday, October 8 6:30 pm

L’Shanah Tovah Tikateivu!From the Board, Rabbi Sendrow, and membership

of Congregation Shaarey Tefilla,wishing you and all your loved ones

a Healthy, Sweet, and Good New Year!

From our newborns to our seniors, we are a family! We’d love to have you join us!

Call us for more information regarding services, seats, and membership.

3085 W. 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032(317) 733-2169 • www.shaareytefilla.org

September 28, 2011 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN 9Torah. She was a past president of theBureau of Jewish Education Auxiliary andfinancial secretary for both IndianapolisHadassah, of which she was a membersince 1942, and Hooverwood Guild.

She is survived by her husband, SidneyN. Sakowitz; daughters, Marcia (Bruce)Sklare of Indianapolis and Anita (Alan)Kramer of Duluth, Ga.; son, Jeff (Amy)Sakowitz of Needham, Mass.; sevengrandchildren, Aviva (Rabbi Moshe)Schwartz, Nathan (Dara) Sklare, Adina(Adam) Aft, Bradley and Jared Kramer,and Alex and Jordan Sakowitz; and threegreat grandchildren.

A funeral service was held June 10,2011 at the Aaron-Ruben-NelsonMortuary. Burial followed in CongregationBeth-El Zedeck North Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be made toCongregation Beth-El Zedeck or a charityof the donor’s choice. AAAA

Favl Waisburd, 85, formerly ofProskurov, Ukraine, died June 18, 2011.He was a graduate of Odessa Radio and Telecommunications University.He then served as chairman of the Radio and Telecommunications School inSverdlovsk, Russia where he worked from1955–1989, when the family immigratedto the United States.

Favl is survived by his beloved sons,Joseph Weisburd of Needham, Mass.and Natan Weisburd of Carmel; andgrandchildren, Yeva and Benjamin andSonya and David; 2 great grandchildren,Leah and Raphael Pashkov.

Funeral services were held June 20, 2011at Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary.Burial followed in Beth-El ZedeckCongregation’s North cemetery. Memorialcontributions may be made toCongregation Beth-El Zedeck where hewas a member. AAAA

Rohana Jeane Eagles McCormack,84, was born Dec. 23, 1926 in Charlotte,North Carolina. Rohana graduated Dukewith a BA and an MA. There she met herhusband, Tom McCormack. She receivedan ABD in Literature and Creative Writingfrom Purdue. Many of her poems were published in local and national publications. She was an active member of Beth-El Zedeck and IHC Synagogues.

Rohana was the loving mother of five children, Gigi Seay, Tom HansMcCormack, David McCormack, WilliamMcCormack and Henrietta McCormack.She was the loving grandmother of 13 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Services were held at theAaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. AAAA

Simon Barez, 88, died June 26, 2011.Although Simon was a successful

entrepreneur in the toy and school supply business, he was best known for his devotion to family. Simon lovedtaking the family for Sunday drives andalways had toy samples in hand for thechildren. His grandchildren rememberhours of entertainment feeding ducks and playing games.

He is survived by his children, StacieShapiro and Matthew Barez; and fourgrandchildren, Alyssa and AmandaShapiro, and Joshua and Daniel Barez.

Graveside services were held atIndianapolis Hebrew Cemetery North(161st and Meridian) on June 30, 2011.Memorial contributions may be made to Birthright Israel Foundation, 33 E 33rd St, Floor 7, NY, NY 10016.Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. AAAA

Bertha Budnick Davis, 96, died on July9, 2011 with her loved ones by her side.She was a member of Congregation Beth-El Zedeck, City of Hope and a lifemember of Hadassah. Bertha was thewidow of the late Lewis Davis. She issurvived by her beloved children, MaxineSuess, Steve Davis and Mike Davis; 11grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.Graveside services were held on July 12 inShara Teffilla cemetery (on Kelly Street).She will be deeply missed. AAAA

Monroe Alt, 86, died July 15, 2011. Hewas a founder and former owner ofCrown Plastics Company, manufacturingplastic slip covers for over 40 years retiringin 1996. Monroe was a member of EtzChaim Sephard Congregation SertomaInternational and the Jewish communityCenter Association. He is survived by hisbeloved wife Rose Franco Alt, 3 daughters:Hollie (Dean) Gossett, Shelly (Mike) Katz,and Laura (Nathan Steiner) Alt. Also survived by 4 grandchildren: CeCe, Ethan,Isabel, Josh and a niece and nephew,Nancy Anderton and Michael Alt. Monroewas predeceased by his brother Robert.Funeral Services were July 19 at Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary with burial in EtzChaim Cemetery. Memorial Contributionsmay be made to Indianapolis HebrewCongregation, Etz Chaim Congregation orthe American Diabetes Association. AAAA

Mary Alboher Abrams, 87, was bornAug. 2, 1923 and died July 16, 2011. She is survived by her beloved sons, Scott,William and Steve Abrams; and her brother, Jack Alboher. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Abramsand her siblings, Sam Alboher, FriedaBlack and Esther Simpson.

Mary graduated from Manuel TrainingHigh School and worked as a secretary atFort Benjamin Harrison. Besides being a very

loving mother, she was an active memberof the Jewish community, a member of Indianapolis Hadassah, DeborahSisterhood. Mary enjoyed cooking for herfamily and was known for her gourmetbrownies. She also had a love of golf andwalking. She was a caring individual whowas always there for her family, sons andfriends whenever they needed her.

A graveside service was held July 20 atIndianapolis Hebrew Cemetery South.Memorial contributions may be made toHooverwood in honor of Mary Abrams.Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. AAAA

Elizabeth J. “Betty” Friedmann, 98,died July 17, 2011, in her home, as was herwish, surrounded by her loving family.Born in Martinsville, Ind., on Nov. 7, 1912,Betty was the fifth of eight children bornto Alpha June (Kelso) and Ira ErnestCramer. From childhood on, Betty wasdefined by resilience, generosity, enthusiasm,creativity, curiosity, compassion, humor,and charisma. One of Betty’s most cherishedsayings was,“There are no mistakes, onlycorrections and adjustments.” She had apassion for music that lasted her entire lifeand she spent many happy hours playingthe piano and organ.

After Betty moved to Indianapolis, shemet her husband, Eugene “Gene”Friedmann. They were married for 58years until Gene’s death in 1997. Sheworked alongside her husband to launchseveral successful businesses, culminatingin residential and commercial development.

She was active in Indianapolis HebrewCongregation’s Temple Sisterhood,Brandeis University Women’s Committee,and was particularly proud of her lifemembership in Hadassah and Lion ofJudah support of The Jewish WelfareFederation. Betty’s giving heart is forevercommemorated by her generous gift ofFriedmann Park to the people ofIndianapolis.

Immediate survivors are her two daughters, Jane (Kevin Corn) ofIndianapolis, and Bonnie Friedmann(John Cunniff) of Santa Cruz, California;cherished niece, Gina Stone (Brooklyn,New York); grandchildren, Aaron (Sarah)Corn, Kate Friedmann, Emma Cunniff,Claudio Corn, and David Friedmann;grandnephew, Jake Schlan; and step-grandson, Joshua (Natalie) Corn.Survivors also include Betty’s sister, CareyGrace House of Mooresville, and sister-in-law, Blanche Stonehill of Indianapolis, aswell as many beloved nephews, niecesand their families.

A memorial service was held July 24 atAaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary with agathering at Betty’s home immediatelyfollowing the service. AAAA

10 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

A generous contribution made by Irwin Katz in

memory of his wife, Ann

Mon, Nov 14, 7 pm

Charles FishmanWithout preaching, Charles Fishman, author of The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water,asks us to re-evaluate our relationshipwith water. Though the “golden age ofwater” may be over, he insists we arenot in a crisis...yet.

Tues, Oct 25, 7 pm

Marilyn BergerBerger, author of This is a Soul: AnAmerican Doctor’s Remarkable Missionin Ethiopia, relays the remarkable storyof one doctor devoted to caring forvictims of famine, genocide and war.

Oct 26–Dec 30 | FREEReception: Thurs, Oct 27 5:30 pm

Herron School of Art and DesignBooks with hair? Allow Karen Baldnerto guide you through an intensive andhands-on immersion into the worldof book arts and discover that booksthemselves can be art.

Sat, Oct 29, 7 pm

Indianapolis Premiere Screening:

Nora’s WillNora’s manipulative plans and meticulous intentions before taking her own life make for a comedic film that is pure entertainment.

Sun, Nov 13, 10 am | FREEat Congregation Beth-El Zedeck

Anita DiamantAuthor of The Red Tent, Anita Diamantspeaks on ways the strengths andvulnerabilities of the female bodyshape a women’s experience andidentity, freedom and spirituality.

Tues, Nov 15, 7 pm

Indianapolis Premiere Screening:

The Little TraitorMonths before Israel becomes a state,tensions rise between the Britishoccupiers and Jewish rebels. Thisengaging movie of friendship andloyalty tells the story of one boy and aBritish sergeant, his unlikely friend.

6701 Hoover Road | Indianapolis251-9467 | www.JCCindy.org

AND ARTS

3

Wed, Nov 16, 6 pm

Tom Fields-MeyerFollowing Ezra: What One FatherLearned about Gumby, Otters, Autismand Love from his Extraordinary Sonis a heartwarming story about acceptanceand patient parenting.

Sat, Nov 19, 7 pm

3 Screenings:

Heartland Truly MovingPicturesThe JCC and Heartland arecollaborating once again for anotherentertaining and thought-provokingevening of film and discussion.

IndianapolisHebrew Congregation

Mon, Oct 31, 7 pm

Lee KravitzLee Kravitz is busy. In UnfinishedBusiness: One Man’s ExtraordinaryYear of Trying to Do the Right Thing, he catches up on a list of unfinished business—the could’ves, should’vesand would’ves that plague us all.

Tue, Nov 1, Noon | FREE

Storytime with Bubbe and ZaydeAn intergenerational story hour for ourkids, their grandparents and parents.

Wed, Nov 2, 7 pm

Ghita SchwarzDisplaced Persons: A Novel exploresthe stories behind the survivors ofthe concentration camps. Follow fourPolish women as they re-establish theiridentities and reconstruct their lives.

Sun, Nov 6, 9 am—4 pm

Feeding the CommunityBody: A Day of WellnessJoin yogi and author Meta Chaya Hirschlfor a two-hour yoga workshop. Stop byour mini farmers market for some localeats. Participate, learn and share in a wide range of workshops and activitiestaking place all day at the JCC.

Tues, Nov 8, 7:15 pm

Myla GoldbergIn her new book, The False Friend, young protagonist Celia Durst is notquite as innocent as she seems. Join Myla in a private discussion about thenovel before the actual event when youpurchase the book at the JCC.

Wed, Nov 9, 7 pm | FREE

SuEllen FriedAuthor and anti-bullying advocateSuEllen Fried will lead a workshopfor adult, pre-teens and teens in the Laikin auditorium at the JCC. Herbook, Banishing Bullying Behavior, offers tools to solve this problem.

Sponsored by US Kids Magazines- Turtle, Humpty Dumpty and Jack & Jill. Co-sponsored by Albert & Sara Reuben Senior and Community Resource Center and PJ Library of Greater Indianapolis.

Co-sponsors: Wendy and Phil Larman

Sponsored by Congregation Beth-El Zedeck. Co-sponsored by ShaareyTefilla Sisterhood, Hadassah, Indiana Humanities and Novel Conversations.

Special thanks to our partner Bully Safe USA. Co-sponsored by Indianapolis Section of the National Council of Jewish Women, The Villages, Prevent Child Abuse and The Mothers Circle.

Partner: Second Helpings

Sat, Oct 22, 7 pm and Sun, Oct 23, 3 pm

Joshua Nelson, “ThePrince of Kosher Gospel”$20 public / $15 Adult JCC members$10 All children under 19Become united in song and spirit withour community through the uplifting and cross-cultural gospel music ofJoshua Nelson. Together with back-upsingers and live musical accompaniment,this “Prince of Kosher Gospel” willhave you singing along and dancing inthe aisles!

JPO_2011_FOBA_Sept 20.indd 1 9/20/2011 4:05:40 PM

September 28, 2011 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN 11that dominate our thinking and dangeroulsy delude our sensibilities.Living with addiction means we toleratenumbing patterns and processes that heal temporary anxieties, yet hinder ourlives and legacies, weakening homes andheritages. To live in atonement is to beawake; to address addiction as clergy or counselor is to enable the daily work of atonement.

Atonement requires this renewedawakedness, a wakefulness ripe to and forCreation. When Yom Kippur ends we haveHavdalah for Yom Kippur is a Sabbath andas Sabbath ends we rejoin Creation. If weare to return to the work week onSaturday night or the world after Yom Kippur, we no longer dare deludeourselves, we must be honest with ourselves, we earnestly, hungrily rely onour senses. Repentance and recoveryrequire us to accept and encounter life on life’s terms. This can be hard for a generational people, a community understandably still reeling from the horrors of decades-gone miseries readilyrecalled. Yet if we make yesterday thedominant center of our intentions, we forfeit all futures. To bring awareness to the present is the best method for apurposeful, purpose-filled tomorrow. Wemust feel today’s challenges.

Danny R, a recovering heroin addict,taught me he would not take prescribedmethadone for while it could help himrecover, the same methadone also prevented him from fully feeling what he truly felt; a path more painful to himthan remaining actively addicted.

It is by living with and enduring ourmost heightened senses we reclaim each new day, each new moment,each new year. We must be mentally andemotionally present. Hear what StevieWonder wrote and taught in his songSuperstitition: “You believe in things you don’t understand and you suffer,superstition is your way.”This is capriciousliving – it lacks kavanah, intention, Jewishmindfulness. If you liken wrongdoing towhat the 12-Step world calls characterdefects, then for Jews addiction is aremaining in what was, whereas atonement and recovery are an active,conscious embrace of what is with full faculties ripe and ready. To atone, to live beyond addiction, is to exit the hamster cage wheel. And what is the perspective of the hamster’s wheel – acrippling but dependable, recycling wherelots of energy goes nowhere. This mayhave a routine, comforting regularity, withneither sense nor sensibility, neitherintention nor importance. It is a false god of an empty faith, active but empty,neither vital nor vibrant.

Yom Kippur as a concept states, “Do not rely on your power and prowess togive life its meaning!”Yet as Yom Kippurconcludes, the rites and rules by which theday ends declare, “Do not be complacentwith your spirituality! Do not rely solelyon what you repeat and repeat.”The Source of Life itself is the object ofdevotion, not trappings and embellishmentsthat drive the point home! Pay attention tomore than what you say and do, payattention to how you say and share it.There are our words and there are ourways! Pay attention! Watch your perspective.

The day ends with an overdose of pattern and repetition: This “1-3-7” is positioned at the day’s end for just as apossible cure of illness is a small dose ofthe actual contagion, so too a possiblecure for rigid and restrictive spirituality is a renewed awakening to the world, areclamation of our senses, a restitution ofthe dailiness we abandoned when westopped working, stopped eating, stoppedbeing romantic, if only for a day, in thename of what is Holy. If we’re to be trulyHoly, truly resolved to do and be better,we must emerge awake and aware backinto the world. “1-3-7” shocks a YomKippur self back into being a life-world-oriented soul!

Judaism is not for abandoning theworld, but Yom Kippur is for abandoningautomatic ways of mind and heart thatbesmirch Creation’s potential. For us tocontinue and deepen the work of repentance, we must become adept atawareness, cultivate wakefulness, refineattention, and hone intention. This meansthat whenever and wherever we find ourselves captives of routine, whether in a workplace or house of worship, we stop, take a breath, seek a bigger picture,and be watchful of actions that becomeconstrictive and addictive, less we not onlyfall asleep in pews, but snore our wayacross our days and decades.

As a therapist I have treated addictions,a role that is also mine as rabbi.“Addiction” is an antonym for beingawake, becoming aware, and for Yom Kippur, an addiction is as much an obstacle to atonement as any othersleepiness of heart or mind. It is too lazy topaint with a wide brush and decree that addiction is solely about drugs andalcohol. It is too easy to discard the methdealer facing a prison term, or dismiss the wasted soul staggering down a street,bottle in her hand. That is the stereotype,the convenient target that both draws ourattention and intensifies our denial.Addiction is equally about “how”we copeas with “what”we cope!

Addiction is a societal enigma, respondingto addiction requires an assault on thepremises of consumption and amusement

Living with theaddiction – The 1-3-7 Perspective

Work with your mind & you’ll be surprised how it changes the outer world.

~ Pema ChodronOne who conquers the self is greater

than one who conquers a city. ~ Talmud

This involves one’s perspective.Advantage or disadvantage dwells in howan attribute plays outs, a circumstanceunfolds, how developments dovetail orfortunes unfurl. When I initially explainHebrew, one or two individuals will opine,“Oh, it reads backwards! It starts where itshould end!”“Not to an Israeli!”I reply! Asthe first paragraph promised, perspectiveis a premise of today’s reflections. How wesee, hear, or think matters!

Let’s start at the end of something else,something we Jews both will welcomeand will happily usher on its way – YomKippur – our Day of Atonement. Nostalgiaand custom embrace the day, stomachsand patience struggle in its grip. But just asthe Day of Atonement draws to an end,there is a rite which garners due attention.We’re often too hungry to savor its signficance. But as atonement evolvesfrom ethical skills we learn and apply, thelessons of this day, no matter how minute,are overlooked at the soul’s peril. To atone is to risk being fully awake!

This particular ceremony asks us to payattention to one specific action, quite achallenge in an era of numerous handheldelectronic distractions. Judaism has itsrites of mindfulness. Judaism containsmore than a sprinkling of Zen, deedswhich call forth kavannah, or intention.Just as five days afterYom Kippur we mustliterally pay attention and actively attuneto the shofar blast, there is an arrangementat Yom Kippur’s ending that can liberate usfrom the cycles and patterns which dullour sensibilities.

Now we come to “1-3-7.” We say“Shema” once, then repeat “Baruch ShemKavod Malchuto L’olam Va’ed” three timesand finally, “Ha-Shem Hu Ha’Eloheem” isuttered seven times, “1-3-7.”Yom Kippurhas many repetitions and just as recurringsins amidst the year numb our morals,perhaps these overly recited readings maycatch us unaware too. Not only can thepast year’s poor thinking and pale choicesdull our decency, but the way in which we change can become a problem too.We must rely on God for change, not confusing the rites we undertake for themistakes we would forsake.

BY RABBI STEVEN M. LEAPMAN

(see Leapman, page 13)

12 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

As we traveled north to south and everywhere in between, all of my expectationswere far surpassed. I will never forget oneof our first activities, the Gilabon hike,which despite the difficulty, instantly orientated us with the land of Israel. Thepictures are in my photo album and areabsolutely breathtaking. Climbing Masadaand floating in the Dead Sea became reallife to me – not just landmarks on mapsand distant history that I had heard for aslong as I can remember. Although eachand every stop on our trip was remarkable,there are two days that stand out that I amcertain have changed my life entirely.

First was experiencing Shabbat at theKotel. I was always told “the Western Wallthis,”“the Western Wall that”, but walkinginto the old city on Friday evening, our trip witnessed hundreds of soldiers celebrating and dancing which instantlyaffected each and every one of us. At thismoment, it hit home to me what wasgoing on. All of these young people, bothsoldiers and Birthright participants, weresimply celebrating their freedom and ability to live in our country. At thatmoment, regardless of how different ourlives were, we were all brought togetherby that one common factor. As the sunbegan to set, the next few hours at theKotel were certainly the most memorableof the trip.

The other day that stands out in my mindwas not as uplifting, but had just as strongof an impact. On one of our last days, wetoured Yad Vashem and Mount Herzl. YadVashem was an entirely beautiful andoverwhelming experience. This HolocaustMuseum was very different from the one

I had been to in Washington D.C., andconnected me with my ancestry evenmore. Standing in the Land of Israel Iimmediately remembered how lucky eachand every one of us was.

Mount Herzl also hit home for anotherreason. Thus far in our trip, we were luckyenough to have 8 amazing Israeli soldierstraveling with us. While at Mount Herzl,many of them told personal stories and Iknow it was here for me that I realized,despite how different our lives may be,that we are all young adults who have somuch in common. Growing up in theLand of Israel, our soldiers (and all youngpeople) are forced to grow up and maturemore quickly than we in the United States.I was completely moved by the soldierswho I had grown to know so well in onlya few days.

Reflecting on the impact Israel continuesto have on me months after I’ve returnedhome, I can honestly say I am thankfulthat my first time to the land was onMayanot Birthright. I’m thankful to theChabad House on campus for networkingwith students and encouraging them to joinMayanot Birthright and offering studentsan opportunity to learn about their past andconnect with their identity with so manyfriends by their side. I continue to urge myfamily regularly that we must travel toIsrael as a family, for their sake as well asmine because I cannot wait to go back!

Fleischer is a senior at Indiana University.She urges you to support these and otherprograms at Chabad by contributing to:Chabad House, 518 East Seventh Street,Bloomington, IN 47408 or via PayPal:Chabad@indiana.edu. AAAA

B”H, Birthrighttrip with ChabadBY ERIKA FLEISCHER

I met rabbi Yehoshua and his wife Zlataon at few occasions – at our house, atchapter meetings, at the Shabbat table,and at Passover Seders at the ChabadHouse. Rabbi Yehoshua led many trips onBirthright and encourages everyone totake part in it.

Traveling to Israel is one of the thingswe, as Jews, are told we must do, but nevertruly understand until we experience itfirst hand. I know now, because I wasrecently fortunate enough to travel toIsrael on a Birthright trip: Mayanot 91.Having a strong Jewish upbringing andfirst cousins living in Israel, it is surprisingthat I had never previously traveled to my homeland.

After hearing life-changing stories frommany friends who had been on a trip withRabbi Yehoshua on Mayanot Birthright, Iwas more eager than ever to see what allthe buzz was about when I applied for aMay 2011 trip.

As soon as I stepped off the plane,my fears subsided and I felt a sense of belonging and complete comfort –regardless of how far from home I was. Ifound myself with 36 other IndianaUniversity students and five from othercampuses. The members of Mayanot 91were instantly immersed into the cultureof Israel, and as soon as we settled on our bus, I knew the next 10 days weregoing to be some of the best of my life.

September 28, 2011 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN 13

In this light, Moses may have been history’s first addictions’ counselor inteaching his “group” or “clients” the therapeutic lesson that one must resolveto do less to be more, one must intend to see the value of the labor, instead of valuing labor, blind but bold activity for activity sake alone. That is active addiction, not atonement. Those enslaved,whether by Pharoah of Egypt or Pharoahsof how we think, cannot divorce themselves from duties which dull ourhearts amidst what is perfunctory andunproductive. This is addiction, not atonement. We face our finitude and fears through how we think, how wespeak, how we work, and how we feel.

Yom Kippur heightens anxiety. It forcesmeditation upon all we hoped to attain orbecome, all still not subdued or surpassedwithin. Further, there is not just what wefeel we have not yet accomplished, buthow we relate to these regrets and all thatinspires our remorse. It is not only ourthoughts and feelings in the reflection ofYom Kippur as mirror, it is how we carry orconceal what we think and feel. There is what we feel, there is how those recollections dwell in our being. There is the content of what we would healwithin, then there is the process by which these speculations criss-cross ourconcsciousness.

Thus, we conclude with the very rites that render Shabbat and Atonement’sDay fulfilled.

Havdalah means “distinction”. Do not be numb to life. Do not be asleep whilealive. Discern. Mindfulness is a mitzvahJews claim as kavanah. Do not taste grape’s sweetness, savor. Do not look atcandlelight, watch flames dance. Do notfeel heat, approach fire’s raw energy, aforce for creation or destruction renderedmeritorious only through what we decide.Do not sniff spices, inbibe their freshness.Do not hear candles sizzle-out in juice,listen for how passion is extinguished.To atone, to live beyond addictive thoughtand feeling, is to challenge what we percieve and never be complacent withhow our minds operate.

Our senses allow us to navigate ourlives. True religiosity is about time in thisworld, revelation displayed in how we

LEAPMAN(continued from page 11)

treat one another, let alone ourselves. Oursensibilities cannot remain stagnant forwhen Shabbat ends, we have much to do and more to become. When YomKippur ends, we demonstrate how ourrepentance is more than some annualcurtsy to custom and culture. Soon we willarrive at Sukkot, a festival focused on notmerely where we dwell but how! This year, let us stay attuned and invite thosequestions that enrich our days. If wechoose otherwise, we shall have toaccount for what we ignored and how!Shanah Tovah!

Rabbi Steven M. Leapman, LMHC,LCAC is licensed as a clinical addictionsand mental health counselor in the State ofIndiana. He is a former US Navy / USMCchaplain who currently serves a staff therapist at Samaritan Counseling Center in South Bend, Ind. He is interested in pastoral and general counseling, bereavement and loss, interfaith relations,and creative writing. AAAA

Transcendingthe Physical

This summer passed byso quickly! Soon we shallbe gathering together tousher in the New Year,5772. Penny and I wish you and your lovedones a K’tiva V’chatima L’tova. May you bewritten and sealed in the Book of Life fora happy, healthy New Year.

During the course of this last year a congregant asked me to explain why weshould not wear leather shoes on YomKippur. My hope is that once you haveread this explanation, you will want to follow this observance.

Yom Kippur has all the restrictions ofShabbat. In addition, there are 5 innuim,“afflictions,” which a person is also not allowed to do: eating and drinking,washing one’s body, anointing oneself,wearing leather shoes, and intimate marital relations.

The most well known restriction of Yom Kippur is fasting. We do this to helpus transcend our physical self. In this waywe completely focus on repentance, onour prayers, and on the spiritual.

But what about the prohibition of notwearing leather shoes on Yom Kippur? TheTalmud,Yoma 77a, learns this from varioussources, including a reference to Isaiah20:2.“At the same time spoke the Lord byIsaiah the son of Amoz, saying, Go andloose the sackcloth from off your loins,and take off your shoe from your foot.”

The shoe reminds us of our physicality.Just as the shoe covers the lowest part ofour body, allowing us to walk in this world,so too the body covers the soul, permittingit to operate in this physical world.

There are many times in the Torahwhere G-d wishes someone to be open toa high spiritual level and commands himto remove his shoes. When G-d spoke toMoses at the burning bush, and to Joshua,his successor, this was the case!

The same was true for the Kohen in theholy Temple in Jerusalem (which is emulated whenever a Kohen duchens,i.e. blesses the congregation). This is alsothe case for each of us on Yom Kippur.

On this day, we strive to reach a higherspiritual level, ignoring the physical. Wesymbolize this, specifically by removingour leather shoes, because leather is madefrom a living creature, and symbolizes thephysical body. Since we are so used towearing shoes, especially leather ones, we areconsciously creating a different environmentfor Yom Kippur by removing them.

BY RABBI MITCHEL KORNSPAN

I hope and I pray that each of us willfind, during the course of Yom Kippur, thatthe “ground upon which we stand is holy.”

Ktiva Vchatima Ltova (May you be written and sealed in the Book of Life).

Rabbi Kornspan leads Congregation B’naiJacob in Ft. Wayne, Ind. AAAA

j i

About the Indiana Historical SocietySince 1830, the Indiana Historical

Society has been Indiana’s Storyteller,connecting people to the past by collecting,preserving, interpreting and sharing the state’s history. A private, nonprofitmembership organization, IHS maintainsthe nation’s premier research library andarchives on the history of Indiana and theOld Northwest and presents a unique setof visitor exhibitions called the IndianaExperience. IHS also provides support andassistance to local museums and historicalgroups, publishes books and periodicals;sponsors teacher workshops; and providesyouth, adult and family programming. AAAA

IHS(continued from page 3)

j i

Caregiver/CompanionI have been caregiving for more than15 years. I would love to assist you

with your personal needs and household chores. If interested, please

call Linda at 875-5490 or 353-4559.

On this date inJewish historyOn September 28, 1775The first Jewish congregation in Stockholm was founded.

~ From The Jewish Book of Days published byHugh Lauter Levin Associates, Inc., New York.

14 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

September 28, 2011 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN 15service oriented industries.

Hollyhock Hill Restaurant has been atradition in “family-style” dining for over80 years, remaining as one of the few suchrestaurants of its type in the United Statesand one of the oldest restaurants inIndiana. Consistently ranked among thetop restaurants in the Midwest, HollyhockHill is famed for its superior “county-style” cuisine, high standards of serviceand unique ambiance. Hollyhock Hill is a premiere dining destination inIndianapolis, especially when celebratingspecial occasions. A resurgence in recentyears has landed Hollyhock Hill on thecover of Saveur Magazine and on Travel &Leisure’s“America’s Best”list. AAAA

“Music@ShaareyTefilla” concertseries beginsfourth season

“Music@Shaarey Tefilla”opens its fourthseason of music for small ensembles performed by some of the most outstandingmusicians residing in central Indiana aswell as special guest artists from outsideIndiana.“Music@Shaarey Tefilla”welcomesall in central Indiana to experience musicup close and casual. Under the artisticdirection of Indianapolis SymphonyOrchestra (ISO) Principal Violist MichaelStrauss, the seriespresents a broadrange of musicalstyles and collab-orative musicians.A defining aspectof the series is to focus attentionon the work ofJewish composersand performers.The fourth seasonis a three-concertseries on Monday evenings at 7:30 p.m. onOct. 24, Dec. 5 and April 2.

In addition to master works and piecesby familiar composers, such as Beethoven,Gershwin and Shostakovich, each concerton the 2011-2012 season will includeworks by distinguished composersinterned in Terezin. These composers atTeresienstadt Concentration Camp allperished at the hands of the Nazis.Notable Jewish intellectuals, musiciansand artists were sent to Teresienstadt; somany that there were enough musiciansto fill two full symphony orchestras. Thecamp’s legendary music scene was fueledby precarious conditions and the need fordistraction. This drove musicians to highlevels of creativity and actually formed oneof the most vibrant musical schools inoccupied Europe. Among these eminentcomposers were Hans Krasa, Pavel Haas,Viktor Ullmann, and Zikmund Schul.

The first concert on the series, Oct. 24,begins with vocal and instrumental worksby featured performers tenor Steven Stolenand ISO Acting Principal Oboist RogerRoe. Concert series Artistic Director, violistMichael Strauss, has also engaged pianistsKent Cook, faculty at Illinois WesleyanUniversity, and Catherine Bringerud,faculty at Butler University. The repertoireincludes songs by Vaughan Williams andGershwin along with Robert Kahn’s Triofor Viola, Oboe and Piano and Pavel Haas’1939 Suite for Oboe and Piano. Haas wasa composer at Teresienstadt.

Local iconinducted intoHall of Fame

The Indiana Restaurant Association hasannounced the selection of Jay Snyder,proprietor of Hollyhock Hill Restaurantfor induction into its prestigious Hall ofFame. Selection into this esteemed groupis based upon superior dedication to thehospitality industry in addition to bothprofessional and personal accomplishments.

For more than 50 years, Snyder has workedto maintain and grow this Indianapolis dining institution, which firstopened in 1928. In 1960 hebegan work at HollyhockHill as a groundskeeperand through hard workand dedication eventually became therestaurants’ general manager. He and hiswife Barbara have worked side-by-side asproud owners of Hollyhock Hill since1992, resulting in continued success evenduring the economic uncertainty of recentyears. Additionally, his civic commitmentto the Indianapolis community is farreaching, not only in dollars and cents butalso in time and energy. His humble personality, commitment to customer satisfaction and “never meets a stranger”attitude have made him a respected iconwithin the Indianapolis business landscape.

Snyder joins other notable restaurateurslike Dave Thomas (Wendy’s), CharlesLaughner and Harry Roth (St Elmo’s) as only the 40th Hall of Fame inductee inthe association’s 75-year history. Snyderhas been a long time board member for the Indiana Restaurant Association,widely known for his outspoken supportof Hoosier hospitality industry. In 2010 he finished a two-year term as Board Chairman of the Indiana Restaurant Association.

The Indiana Restaurant Association represents over 1,600 member restaurantproperties and industry-related servicescompanies. It is these members that helpmake the foodservice industry the nation’slargest private sector employer and one of the State’s most politically active and

Jay Snyder

Michael Strauss

General admission tickets at the doorare $18 ($15 for CST members; and $5 for students). Season subscriptions areavailable. For more information or tickets, contact the office administrator at 733-2169. Concerts take place atCongregation Shaarey Tefilla at 3085 W.116th St. in Carmel, Ind. AAAA

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congregations’participation.Representatives from Indiana, Purdue,

DePauw, and Butler universities’ Hillelsattended the Tour not only to cheer ontheir riders, but to educate high schoolstudents on their programs as well. “IUHillel was so thrilled to be participating in Tour de Shuls – Indy!” said IndianaUniversity Hillel Engagement DirectorLance deSilva. “When the greater community recognizes the impact andinfluence that Hillel holds on over 4,000Jewish students at IU, it means a lot andvalidates our mission.”

Once the riders were on the road fortheir treks, the fun continued inside thesynagogue for participants of all ages whowere not riding to enjoy activities toenhance their mind, body, and spirit. Thechildren especially enjoyed the bouncehouse, and the bike safety sessions led byAdam Perler, of Team CFW, along with WeCan! and Safety First, of IU-Riley Hospitalto promote an active and healthy lifestyle.And things really got jumping as familymembers joined in the activities ofZumba, led by Maggie Olesiak, Yoga,led by Tracy Stoner, and Israeli dancing,led by Bob Mandresh. Rabbi MendalSchusterman from Lubavitch of Indianataught shofar and tefillin.

The co-chairs of this event were DanFox and Jay Perler. Benjy Ekhaus chairedpublicity, Phil Lande secured sponsors,and Henry Leopold determined the bikeroutes. Bev Goldstein led registrationefforts and Rob Goldstein managed theWeb site (www.tourdeshulsindy.org). DanFogle was treasurer, Alan Atlas, DinaNahmias, and Keith Goldstein coordinatedthe volunteers, and Marci Landis chairedthe activities inside the synagogue includingthe refreshments and lunch. And countlessvolunteers came together to make the firstTour de Shuls – Indy a rousing success. AAAA

TOUR DE SHULS(continued from page 2)

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16 The Jewish Post & Opinion – IN September 28, 2011

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Photos taken at The Yuval Ron Ensemble concert on World Peace Day, Sept. 21. Seestory in Editorial on page 2. Counterclockwise from top left: Local belly dancer JamillaAli;, Gadi Boukai speaking on behalf of JCRC; and The Yuval Ron Ensemble.