Interested in attending? Email ijhs@ijhs.org to let us know!

The following article was written by Michael Brown, Executive Director of the Indiana Jewish Historical Society.

The song “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” narrates the story of Katie, a woman passionate about baseball, who agrees to date her boyfriend only if it involves attending a game. At the time, women were generally regarded as outsiders in the realm of sports. Jack Norworth, a 29-year-old musician from Tin Pan Alley, conceived the idea for the song during a train ride in 1908 after observing a baseball advertisement. Albert Von Tilzer composed the music for Norworth’s lyrics. Notably, neither Norworth nor Von Tilzer attended a Major League Baseball game until they were 32 and 20 years old, respectively, underscoring their outsider status.

The song was first performed by Norworth’s then-wife, Nora Bayes, and later popularized by numerous vaudeville acts.

The first documented performance of the song at a ballpark occurred in 1934 during the fourth game of the World Series. Prior to this, it was played during intermissions at theaters showing silent films. Albert Von Tilzer, originally named Elias Gumbinsky, was born in Indianapolis to Lithuanian Jewish immigrant parents who had previously resided in several cities, including Detroit, where his brother Harry Von Tilzer was born. The family, all musically gifted, changed their surname from Gumbinsky. Before Albert’s birth, they settled in Goshen, Indiana, to be near relatives and attempted to open a store, which was subsequently destroyed by fire under suspicious circumstances. Local townspeople falsely accused the Gumbinskys of arson for insurance purposes, reflecting prevalent antisemitic stereotypes of the 19th century.

In 1878, the family, facing adversity, relocated to the South Side of Indianapolis, the current site of Shapiro’s Deli’s parking lot. During the late 19th century, Jewish immigrants in this area encountered significant prejudice, as Indianapolis was predominantly inhabited by White Anglo-Saxon Protestants and lacked cultural diversity. The densely populated immigrant neighborhood was frequently labeled a “ghetto” by the local non-Jewish press and sometimes referred to as “Little Judea.” Eastern European Jews were often perceived as foreign and unsophisticated, even by members of the earlier, more established German-speaking Jewish community.

Despite the constraints of their crowded, industrial Indianapolis neighborhood, Albert and his brother Harry pursued their ambitions. They emerged as influential figures in popular music and culture, contributing to the establishment of Tin Pan Alley in New York, which transformed American music by producing numerous popular songs. “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” has become an anthem for individuals who aspire to connect with the core of American culture.

Currently, there are renewed efforts by some negative forces to marginalize Jewish Americans and obscure their significant contributions to the nation.

With this history in mind, the Indiana Jewish Historical Society and the Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation (JASHP) initiated the creation of a historical marker for “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” Jerry from JASHP was so enthusiastic about the idea that he sought to expand the project nationally, offering the marker to any ballpark interested. Our initial proposal to Albert Von Tilzer’s hometown was declined, and subsequent outreach to numerous other ballparks was met with either no response or outright rejection. I suggested to Jerry that we approach the South Bend Cubs, who are already connected to the song through Harry Caray and to Indiana’s Jewish history by featuring a historic repurposed synagogue as their gift shop. The South Bend Cubs embraced the educational historical marker’s message of inclusivity, its connection to local Jewish history, and the legacy of Harry Caray, whose iconic rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at Chicago Cubs games remains legendary.

We invite you to join us in celebration:

The dedication of the “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” Historical Marker will take place on Friday, May 15, from 4:30 to 5:30 pm EST, adjacent to the courtyard of the Historic Sons of Israel Ball Park Synagogue inside Four Winds Field. The event will begin with a keynote address by Rabbi Michael Friedland, and refreshments will be provided courtesy of South Bend Challah Company.

Michael Brown
Executive Director,
Indiana Jewish Historical Society

It was so meaningful to see our community gathered at the recent Downtown Menorah Lighting at the Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend. In addition to lighting the giant chanukiah in the plaza, we had the privilege of publicly honoring eight individuals who bring light to others throughout the year — our 2025 Community Lamplighters.

2025 Community Lamplighters

Bob Feferman has long been a bridge-builder in our community — open-minded, even-keeled, and always extending a hand in friendship. He has been a guiding force behind the Israeli Emissary program and a steady voice of insight and education. Through his leadership, Bob has fostered meaningful interfaith relationships and strengthened connections across our broader community with thoughtfulness and respect.

Bonny Hoover is often the first to volunteer, offering her time and care quietly and consistently, week after week. She looks after others behind the scenes without being asked, simply because she sees a need and steps in. To many, Bonnie has been a guardian angel — a steady, compassionate presence for people during moments when they need it most.

Bekki Lindow & Tammie Blackman Brown care for our Jewish cemetery with grace, sensitivity, and deep respect. In moments of loss, they offer grieving families comfort and reassurance, ensuring every detail is handled with dignity. Their tireless dedication honors both the memory of those who have passed and the families they leave behind, preserving a sacred space with compassion and care.

For 30 years, Rabbi Michael Friedland has served not only Sinai Synagogue, but the entire South Bend area through his advocacy for its most vulnerable citizens. Kind, compassionate; patient, and caring. Learned, thoughtful, considerate, wise, and with it! He will be missed upon his retirement in June, but he can be counted on to continue giving back to our city as a friend, father and grandfather, scholar, personal advisor, and community leader.

Mary Fisher is this year’s lamplighter for Temple Beth-El. Mary is a quiet person who spreads light wherever she goes, especially through her skills as a cook and baker. She brings meals and challah to community members, bakes beautiful challah for our Shabbat celebrations, and always says yes when asked to help with anything. We are grateful to have her bringing light in everything she does.

Rebecca Wagman, a sophomore at Penn High School, has brought light to our community through her work establishing and organizing the Jewish Culture Club at Penn. When she started this club, it was because she saw something missing—a space for Jewish students at Penn to connect, feel seen, and celebrate their identity. In a school full of clubs for other faiths, she made sure Judaism had a voice. Thanks to her vision, this club not only strengthens Jewish visibility but also opens the door for others to learn about and appreciate Jewish culture.

Eight years ago, Jody Freid inspired our community with an idea: we should come together at Chanukah and stand proudly as a Jewish community in the public square. Because Jody is so well-connected, we were to invite South Bend’s mayor, then Pete Buttigieg and now Mayor James Mueller. Throughout the year, Jody lights the way for new folks to our Jewish community to find where they fit in, introducing them to our Rabbis, to new friends at synagogue, and creating new points of connection. Jody is the ultimate people person and exudes a welcoming presence that benefits our entire Jewish community.

Welcoming Our New Executive Director, Emily Benedix

A Message from Cristyne Porile, President of the Board of Directors of the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Emily Benedix as our Federation’s new Executive Director, effective January 12, 2026.

Many of you will remember Emily from her years of service within our Federation before she moved on to broaden her experience. During that time, she played a vital role in our development, community outreach, and staff support. Her return feels like welcoming back family—someone who knows our values, history, and the spirit that drives our work.

Emily comes to us with four years of Executive Director experience. She is completing her tenure at Northwest Indiana’s Federation, where she strengthened partnerships and advanced community programs. Her leadership and expertise make her exceptionally well-prepared for this role.

What stands out most about Emily is not only her professional skill but her heart for this community. She is deeply committed to building on the foundation laid by her predecessors and carrying forward the vision of unity, compassion, and connection that defines our organization.

We also acknowledge the profound loss of Moshe Kruger z”l, our beloved former Executive Director, whose leadership and extraordinary vision shaped us in countless ways. As we step into this new chapter, Emily’s guidance will help us honor his legacy while moving forward together.

Beginning January 12, Emily will meet with staff, volunteers, partners, and community members to listen, learn, and reconnect. I am confident her thoughtful leadership and collaborative approach will inspire confidence as we chart a hopeful path ahead.

Please join me in warmly welcoming Emily back to our community as she steps into her new role as Executive Director. We look forward to working with her as we honor our past, embrace our present, and begin to chart a new, thoughtful, and hopeful path into our future.

Cristyne Porile
President of the Board of Directors
president@thejewishfed.org

A Message from Steve Lotter, Interim Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley

Over the last two and a half weeks, I’ve been humbled to take on a leadership role during a time of immense loss for our community. As of November 21, 2025, I have officially assumed the position of Interim Executive Director of our Jewish Federation and will serve in this capacity until our incoming director, Emily Benedix, joins us in January.

I bring over three years of experience as our Jewish Federation’s Director of Community Engagement & Marketing, where I’ve focused on strengthening relationships within both the Jewish community and the broader Michiana region. In addition to leading engagement initiatives, I serve as editor of Our Community Newsletter and as Director of the Michiana Jewish Film Festival, roles that have deepened my commitment to cultural enrichment and community connection. This past year, I completed the Jewish Federations of North America’s year-long Executive Accelerator program, further equipping me with the strategic and leadership skills necessary to excel in this short-term role.

As our professional team transitions to new leadership over the next six weeks, I want you to feel complete confidence in our ability to lead. At the center of this effort is our Director of Operations and Finance, Dan Cossman—a steady, driving force behind the scenes who ensures our Federation runs efficiently and responsibly. Dan will continue to provide trusted guidance and handle all matters related to operations and finance.

The rest of our Federation team is ready to rise to this moment—not only as a community grieving the loss of a beloved leader, but as a community with tremendous opportunity ahead. Together, we can build on the foundation laid by our late Executive Director, Moshe Kruger z”l, and continue his example of connection and community building. This dedicated team includes Jordan Price, Director of Programming & Community Relations; Dr. Louise Williams, Administrative Assistant and project lead for Voices of the Future; Rabbi Fred Nebel, Director of Jewish Family Services; Omer Karavani, Israeli Emissary; and Ben Barwick, Facilities Associate. Each of them brings unique strengths and unwavering commitment to our mission.

Join us as we lean into the important work of community building in the months ahead. Mark your calendars for our 2026 Campaign Kickoff Comedy Showcase on Saturday, December 13, and our 8th Annual Chanukah Menorah Lighting in Downtown South Bend on Sunday, December 14. Plus, spread the word about this year’s Winter Camp Ideal—December 22–26—featuring a STEAM focus (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Music) for children.

Together, let’s continue to bring Jewish joy and connection to our community.

Steve Lotter
Interim Executive Director
steve@thejewishfed.org
(574) 233-1164 x1805

It’s hard to believe that next month we will mark the 2nd anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023. This past year, just when we thought things would get easier for the people of Israel, they got even harder with ballistic missile attacks from Iran and its proxies.

Through their amazing example, we have important lessons to learn from the people of Israel and their incredible courage, strength, and resilience. These lessons can help shape the future of the American-Jewish community.

Last spring, the Houthis in Yemen began to fire missiles at Israel in the middle of the night. The sirens would wake up millions of Israelis and send them to seek shelter.

Then, on June 13th, came the surprise attack of the Israel Air Force on Iran’s nuclear program. The attack was hailed as largely successful in helping to significantly delay a serious threat to the existence of Israel. Yet these were extremely difficult days for the people of Israel.

In what became known as the 12-day war, Iran retaliated by launching 550 ballistic missiles at Israel. The heavy warheads on these missiles were very dangerous.

Despite Israel’s excellent missile defense system, 31 of these missiles evaded interception and struck civilian apartment buildings and a hospital. During these 12 days, 28 Israeli civilians were killed and more than 3,000 were wounded.

Our son’s family, including our daughter-in-law and three grandchildren, who live in Rehovot, spent even more sleepless nights running to shelter. Our ten-year-old grandson didn’t want to go to sleep because he knew there would be a siren. As you will hear shortly, our son was stuck in Cypress after returning from an American speaking tour.

On one night, a missile struck an apartment building less than a mile from their home wounding dozens and causing serious damage. Needless to say, Bob and I spent many hours watching live Israeli television and communicating with our family to make sure everyone was ok.

Although we know that the people of Israel are strong and resilient, what does this actually look like in time of war?

During this 12-day war with Iran, our congregants Ashley and Eric Jacobsen happened to be in Israel on vacation with their two children. When they planned the trip, they knew they were going to a country already at war in Gaza. Little did they know they would find themselves in the middle of a much bigger war.

Ashley wrote this about their experiences.

“As we sat in the bomb shelter, particularly for the first time, I saw absolutely no fear in the eyes of the parents or their young children, who trusted in Hashem that we would be safe. This was nothing new for them. They were selfless in their attitudes, showing more concern for making sure everyone in the building made it to the shelter, than for the fact that we could hear the echoes of missiles outside.”

As I mentioned, on June 13th our son Dan was returning to Israel from a speaking tour in America. Little did he know that a few hours before landing, Israel had launched the attack on Iran. Just 20 minutes before landing, his plane was suddenly diverted to Cyprus out of fear over an Iranian missile attack. He was stuck there for a week.

Along with more than 100,000 Israelis who were on vacation in Europe, Dan was desperate to find a way to return home to be with his family. Then, the government of Israel jumped into action. For the first time in history, they organized rescue flights, not to leave Israel, but to return to Israel.

The Israeli comedian Yohay Sponder explained it like this. “I love us. We are the only people in the world who will rescue themselves into a war zone.”

Finally, one week later, Dan landed in Israel on one of the first El Al rescue flights.

When he came into the airport, he said this on his Facebook page: “Just landed in Ben Gurion Airport. We landed one plane at a time. It’s incredible the length this country has gone through to repatriate its citizens. And it says something about our citizens that in time of war we don’t want to run away from our country. We want to come home. This is an all-hands-on deck country.”

The question is this: where do Israelis draw their strength from?

On May 15th, in a powerful speech titled, “The State of World Jewry,” the popular podcast host Dan Senor, was able to draw upon lessons from Israelis during this war that can inspire us all.

He said: “We—the Jewish people—should look to Israel not simply for its defense innovation or health care advances. We should look to Israelis for their clarity, their purpose, their deep sense of identity.”

He retold the story of the American Israeli hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, of blessed memory, who was kidnapped on October 7th, 2023, and murdered by Hamas in captivity.

Senor said: “Hersh spent just three days with a fellow hostage named Eli Sharabi in the tunnels of Gaza.

In that time, Hersh taught Eli a lesson that would change his life. He quoted the psychologist and Holocaust survivor Victor Frankl who wrote: He who has a “why” will find the “how.”

As Dan Senor said: “Israelis have a why.”

He then retold the story of Agam Berger, another captive of Hamas.

“Agam Berger, held in captivity for 450 days, had a why. After her release, she said: “As my ancestors did, I learned that imprisonment can’t overwhelm the inner spiritual life. Our faith and covenant with God—the story we remember on Passover—is more powerful than any cruel captor.

“Even as Hamas tried to coerce me into converting to Islam—at times, forcing a hijab on my head—they couldn’t take my soul.” Her friend, Liri Albag, fashioned a Hagadah out of whatever materials she could find in captivity, and they marked the Passover Seder together, yearning for redemption.”

Senor asks a profound question: “What is our why? Why are we here? Are we truly owning the story we’re living in? These are not theoretical questions. They are practical and will determine the future of our families and our communities.”

The speech given by Dan Senor is truly inspiring, and I highly recommend taking time to watch it on YouTube.

That brings me to the question I want to pose to you tonight: Do you have a Jewish “why”? How would you answer the question: Why is Judaism important to you and your family?

As a Rabbi, I can give many answers. Maybe the most important one has to do with our children and grandchildren.

As we all know, in this new age of artificial intelligence, we are entering unchartered territory. While this technology has many benefits, it also has many dangers.

So, I ask the question: where would you like your children and grandchildren to receive their values: from a smart phone? From ChatGPT? Or would you want them to learn values from the scrolls of the Torah behind me that have inspired and guided our people for over three thousand years.

And where would you like to find a sense of community? Will you find it on Facebook, or in the synagogue by coming together with other Jews to worship?

If you have a “Jewish why” that guides you in your lives, I have no doubt that you will find answers to these and other questions by seeking a stronger connection to our faith, our community and to the Jewish people.

Now more than ever, we need Judaism in our lives.

The philosopher Micah Goodman wrote, “Participation in religious rituals creates balance in our intense Western lives. It provides intimacy in a world that has lost its intimacy and community in a world that has eroded community.

Over the past two years, Israelis have shown us the immense power of having a “why” to guide them in their lives and give them a sense of purpose. For the sake of our children and grandchildren, let us learn from their examples.

I’ll finish by sharing the words of Rachel Goldberg-Polin, mother of Hersh of blessed memory. She shared this prayer for the new year saying: “May we all be inscribed in the book of hope, the book of life, the book of miracles and the book of freedom.”

Shanah tova,
Rabbi Shoshana Feferman
Temple Israel, Valparaiso, Indiana

Reins of Life

JWEF visited Reins of Life (ROL) on July 2 to see that their grant for $1500 helped ROL purchase a barrel for vaulting practice to enable children to learn their competitive gymnastic postures prior to performing them on a live horse.

Reins of Life serves the mission “to improve the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities through equine-assisted therapy.” Those with ADHD, anxiety, amputations, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, depression, Downs Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, PTSD, and at-risk youth participate in a wide range of equine activities, including therapeutic horseback riding and carriage driving, interactive vaulting and equine-assisted psychotherapy – even “nuzzles and snuggles” with horses, dogs, and cats. The 400 children and adults who have weekly contact with a horse have improved or developed muscle control, strength and balance, cardio-respiratory function, appropriate emotional responses, self-coping methods, empathy and trust, concentration, sequencing, memory, self-esteem, self-image, basic learning, communication skills and interpersonal relationships while also practicing teamwork and leadership under the direction of the visionary Dr. Dorota Janik, Executive Director.

Visit reinsoflife.org or call at 574-232-0853 for more information.

St. Vincent de Paul Society

Donna Ayres, Judy Wein, and Marsha Brook visited St. Vincent de Paul Society’s food pantry in downtown South Bend on July 15 to watch how their $1,000 2024 grant for food was being used. Kristine Hilger, Executive Director, and Deb Horvath, food pantry supervisor, helped them witness how people choose their preferred items, e.g., red enchilada sauce, rice and beans, macaroni and cheese, potatoes, canned tomatoes and other vegetables, canned tuna and chicken, milk, cheese and eggs, as well as diapers, dish soap and laundry detergent, during their monthly visit with the help of some of their 500 volunteers. About fifty individuals/families come each Tuesday or Thursday.

St. Vincent’s conducted 5,461 food pantry visits in 2023-2034 with compassion and dignity to restore hope and prevent homelessness and hunger among the 272,000 St. Joe County, IN residents where nearly 18% of children live in poverty and 46% of families struggle to make ends meet. A family of four needs $72,000 just to survive today. St. Vincent’s also conducts home visits -- 6,237 homes in 2024 -- to offer personalized support to those who cannot come to the food pantry.

St. Vincent’s staff even encourages the homeless to come because they want everyone to feel supported and empowered – to live with dignity, hope, and choice. St. Vincent’s is there to help those in need tackle poverty or a sudden downturn in luck.

Those who want to help can host a food drive or offer a pantry sponsorship. for more information, visit svdpsb.org or call 574-234-6000.

Learn more about JWEF by contacting JWEF@TheJewishFed.org, or call the Federation’s Administrative Assistant, Dr. Louise, at (574) 233-1164, ext. 1820. We would love to talk with you about the good we have proudly done with even more grants.

Donna B. Ayres
President, Jewish Women’s Endowment Fund

Fast forward decades later and my busy life as a Rabbinical spouse; parent of four; social worker and early childhood educator, left no time for involved musical pursuits! Singing consisted of haftorah and prayer chanting. Or singing with our own children; or with the little ones I taught at the South Bend Hebrew Day School or in Ta’am Shabbat at Sinai Synagogue. But I never lost sight of the desire to pursue more involved musical pursuits such as piano playing or communal singing—both of which gave me such joy.

I am now 62 years old. Fifty-three years after my first and only choir experience; with children grown; responsibilities lessened; and time of my own. Time in which I could finally pursue the joy of communal singing. And I found it in my own backyard at the Jewish Federation of St Joseph Valley that had just created a Jewish Community Choir led by the wonderful Dror Baitel—a gifted and extraordinary musician.

And what a gift! Without any training or experience in performative voice, possessing only a very AVERAGE voice, I have the opportunity to sing and create music with wonderful people, regardless of my own past experiences and abilities.

And this is what makes the Jewish Community Choir so special. It is special because the choir is open to anyone who would like to sing. There are no auditions. Only the desire to sing and be part of a communal experience.

And it is our extraordinary Director, Dror Baitel, who makes it work. Some of us in the choir have performative voices. Some of us read music. Some of us play instruments. And some, like me, have normal voices with no experience, but who just love to sing. And it is Dror who weaves us all together, who makes this tapestry of varying degrees of talent SING, as if we were preparing for Broadway (of which Dror has considerable experience!). It is Dror who makes rehearsals fun, who is always encouraging, non-judgmental, patient, and kind. With Dror’s leadership the choir is collaborative, caring, and helpful, with and to one another, as we learn beautiful songs and harmonies taken from our Jewish and Israeli heritages.

For 90 rehearsal minutes a week, I get to escape the world and bask in the joy of music. It is a long-awaited dream come true. Fifty-three years to be exact. Perhaps, you will join me in this dream. It is here and waiting.

Lizzie Fagen
Community Contributor

Email info@thejewishfed.org if you are interested in joining the Jewish Community Choir.

On Monday, August 4, our Federation Unity Garden received a much-needed refresh, thanks to the hard work of Jordan Price, Mary Fisher, Janice Mudd, Sandy Hall, Bonny Hoover, MarySue Austin, Rabbi Shoshana Kaminsky, and Moshe Kruger, who spent the afternoon pulling weeds and tidying up the space.

The garden is now thriving with peppers, herbs, tomatoes, zucchini, beans, beets, carrots, cucumbers, and more! Stay tuned for updates on when this beautiful bounty will be ready to harvest and share.

Want to help keep the garden growing strong?
Email Jordan@TheJewishFed.org to get involved.

We concluded another amazing season of Camp Ideal last Friday with our beloved Shi’Shuk Market—a lively space where campers proudly sold freshly baked challah and other delicious treats, they had worked hard to prepare earlier that day.

This year, our campers chose to donate a portion of the market proceeds to the Youth Service Bureau of St. Joseph County. YSB provides shelter and support to children and teens who lack a safe place to live—a cause that deeply resonated with our campers. Their generosity and empathy were truly inspiring!

For more information about Youth Service Bureau, visit their website at ysbsjc.org.

It’s a true honor to be writing my first piece for Our Community Newsletter. As I step into this new role as Director of Programming with the Jewish Federation, I want to take a moment to introduce myself, share a bit about where I’ve been, and offer a glimpse of what I hope we can build together.

Before returning to South Bend, my home was in the ancient and mystical city of Tzfat in northern Israel. In August 2022, I started my journey in the Jewish nonprofit world with Livnot U’Lehibanot—Hebrew for “To Build and To Be Built.” Livnot has been operating in Israel since 1980, connecting young adults to their heritage, Jewish identity, and community through immersive volunteer and educational programs.

The organization brings participants from around the world to work alongside Israelis renovating homes, schools, and community centers, while also offering discussion-based Jewish learning and a traditional Shabbat experience in Tzfat. Whether hiking through Galilee Mountain trails or Golan Heights, hosting soldiers for Shabbat, or facilitating conversations about Jewish values, Livnot believes in building the land and the self—simultaneously.

Working at Livnot has equipped me with invaluable skills that I now bring to my work in South Bend—such as program development, Jewish education, and community engagement. It also affirmed for me something I now see as a deeper calling—strengthening the bond between the Jewish diaspora and the land and people of Israel.

As I step into the role once held by Bob Feferman—whose work I deeply admire—I know I have big shoes to fill. Bob provided this community with essential insight and leadership in community relations, including Israel advocacy, interfaith outreach, and the fight against antisemitism. I’m grateful for the opportunity to carry that mission forward. Through our Israel Desk, I will continue offering the missing context —enriching the conversation around Israel in our community. While war has dominated the news over the past two years, I also hope to highlight the inspiring stories emerging from Israeli society—of innovation, creativity, and meaningful personal connections.

Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, playing soccer, and spending time with my wonderful wife and our young children. It’s a real blessing to now be raising our family close to my parents, surrounded by a warm Jewish community.

If you have ideas for local programming or Israel-related content you’d like to see, please send me an email at jordan@thejewishfed.org. I look forward to working together to continue building a vibrant Jewish community here in South Bend.

Jordan Price
Director of Programming
(574) 233-1164 x1811
Jordan@TheJewishFed.org

Wow, what an incredible six weeks it’s been! This summer was packed with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable experiences. We’ve made so many memories together, and we couldn’t wait to share the highlights with you.

We kicked things off each session with fruit picking — cherries and peaches straight from the orchard — and maybe a few made it straight into our mouths! We had a private movie showing of the live action How to Train Your Dragon at Wonderland Cinema. At the Indiana Dinosaur Museum, we got hands-on with fossil digging, sparking curiosity and some “future paleontologist” dreams.

The South Bend Chocolate Factory treated us to a behind-the-scenes look — plus lots of samples and even full-size chocolate bars! At Apex Climbing Gym, we conquered the walls (with permission this time!) and cheered each other on.

We also had some amazing guests join us this summer. Home Depot partnered with us to build birdhouses, donated four new picnic tables, seeds for planting, and a generous $695 gift card. Ethos wowed us with STEM activities. They even set their hands on fire as an experiment, and we were able to guess how it worked. Rabbi Shoshana Kaminsky of Temple Beth-El led us in joyful Jewish songs with her guitar, sparking lively dance circles that brought everyone together. Plus, our community’s very own Max Kirsch led a fascinating nature hike, teaching us all about birds, insects, and plants right here on the Federation grounds.

Our weekly trips to Fuller’s Beach every Tuesday quickly became a camp favorite! We spent our beach days digging in the sand, swimming, and playing games both in the water and on the shore. And of course — no beach day was complete without stopping for ice cream on the way home! Camp favorites were Michigan Pothole, Cookies and Cream, Blue Moon, Rainbow Sherbet, and Cotton Candy.

This year, we introduced 9 Square to camp — and it was a huge hit! While some campers still preferred the classic 4 Square, many loved the fast-paced fun of 9 Square. Our campers also enjoyed playing camp classics like Chicken on a Roof, Tag, Freeze Tag, What Time is it Mr. Wolf?, Fast Ball, Sardines, Hietzhara, the ever-popular Gaga Ball, Flag Football, Tether ball, and Capture the Flag. Some even invented their own games this year — shoutout to the creativity behind Wall Bash!

In before and after care, our most popular games continued to be Poker, Blackjack and Texas Hold’em, giving campers a fun way to practice math and strategy. And Minecraft Magnetic Blocks were a major hit too, sparking creativity and teamwork.

Another highlight of our summer was our awesome Chugim (electives). Each week, campers chose from activities led by our talented staff and counselors:

• Judy Sassler shared her baking talents with cake pops, fondant modeling, cookie decorating, and cupcake decorating, which is always a favorite!

• Joyiona, Rheylynn, Jada, and Timmyah brought the energy with dance sessions.

• Jayiona and Ahniyah led creative jewelry-making.

• Bella and Maggie inspired young artists with Arts-n-Crafts and Forensics.

• Reine and Vee guided epic adventures with DnD (Dungeons & Dragons).

• MJ, Eli, and Vivian kept campers active with sports sessions.

One of the biggest highlights was our overnight adventure — an evening at Fuller’s Beach until nearly 9 PM, followed by night games like Who Stole the Kosher Bacon and Sardines in the Dark. The next morning, after a delicious breakfast, we headed out for “Camp Day” with the South Bend Cubs, enjoying baseball and a kosher hot dog lunch from Camp Ideal.

We wrapped up our camp days with waterslide fun, laughter, and lots of splashing — the perfect way to end what we can truly call “The Best Summer Ever!”

A special highlight this summer was the Shi’Shuk program, which was a huge success! A portion of the money raised was donated to Youth Service Bureau of St. Joseph County, an organization that helps local teens who need a safe place to stay. A heartfelt thank-you to Judy Sassler for her incredible dedication to Shi’Shuk. Her weekly challah, chocolate chip banana cupcakes, peach cobblers, potato kugel, savory tarts, Jerusalem bagels, and so many other treats were a hit with both our campers and community. Judy, thank you for all your hard work, and for stepping in on field trips and beach days when Omer couldn’t come — you jumped in without hesitation, and I’m so grateful for your constant support and friendship.

Thank you to Omer Karavani, my amazing Co-Director, for your leadership, for running the archery range, for building meaningful connections with campers, and for being a strong, steady support to me and our Hadracha program. You’ve been an invaluable part of this summer.

Thank you, Moshe Kruger, for your wisdom and steady guidance. Your advice during camp planning and throughout the summer gave me the confidence I needed to lead.

Thank you, Steve Lotter, for your marketing insights, encouragement, and support that made this job easier and kept me motivated.

Thank you, Dan Cossman, for your behind-the-scenes work with room setups, payroll, building needs — and even cleaning up life’s little surprises (yes, even vomit). Your support as both my husband and Operations Director has meant the world.

Thank you, Rabbi Nebel, for always being ready with kosher advice and a helping hand in the kitchen for Shi’Shuk. Your guidance is appreciated more than you know.

Thank you, Dr. Louise, for stepping up when we needed coverage, for helping with camp materials, and for being a trusted sounding board throughout the summer.

Thank you, Moose, our unofficial Emotional Support Pup, for bringing smiles and calm whenever you visit.

And finally, a huge thank you to Ben and Norma — your help cleaning up after our campers’ daily adventures (and some of our larger messes… like the watermelon explosion!) did not go unnoticed. We truly could not have done this without you both. From the bottom of my heart — thank you!

To our campers, families, and community — thank you for making this summer unforgettable. It’s been a joy and a privilege to share this journey with all of you.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Kim Cossman
Director of Camp Ideal

On June 5th at the Annual Meeting of the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, the local Jewish community came together to honor individuals whose leadership and dedication continue to shape and strengthen Jewish life in Greater South Bend. Three prestigious awards were presented, each highlighting the unique contributions of this year’s honorees.

Sam Rose was honored with the Robert Simon Leadership Award, established by Kurt and Tessye Simon in memory of their son. This award recognizes emerging leaders who demonstrate exceptional community involvement. A lifelong resident of Greater South Bend, Sam has been instrumental in revitalizing young adult engagement through his work with the NEXTGen Young Adults Committee and Voices of the Future. His recent experience on a Partnership2Gether Young Adult trip to Budapest further deepened his commitment to Jewish identity and service. In his acceptance, Sam expressed surprise and gratitude, reflecting on his journey of reconnection and his desire to give back to the community that shaped him.

Lynda Simon received the Betty and Sam Schpok Spirit of Federation Award, a lifetime achievement honor recognizing selfless giving and enduring leadership. Lynda’s decades of service have touched nearly every aspect of Jewish communal life. At Temple Beth-El, she has served as Sisterhood Vice President, Temple House co-chair, and board member, creating warm, welcoming spaces for every occasion. She is also a Lion of Judah, a member of the Federation’s Fine Arts Committee, and a recipient of Temple Beth-El’s Distinguished Service and Woman of the Year awards. Lynda is known for her grace, wisdom, and ability to lead with both heart and practicality. Her peers describe her as someone who always knows the right thing to say—and more importantly, the right thing to do.

Bob Feferman was presented with the Lisa Lerman Community Bridge Award, honoring his decades of work building bridges across Jewish denominations and interfaith communities. In his remarks, Bob paid tribute to Lisa Lerman’s legacy and emphasized the importance of teamwork. He credited his wife Shoshana, the Jewish Federation staff, and the many volunteers and committee leaders he’s worked with, including Barbara Lerman, chair of the Community Relations Committee. “Good things only happen with a great team,” he said. Bob’s leadership has extended far beyond the Jewish community, fostering partnerships with Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, and others. His work continues to unite and uplift, making him a true connector and advocate.

Together, these honorees reflect the heart of South Bend’s Jewish community—leaders who inspire, serve, and strengthen the bonds that hold us together.

Students Honored with Silver Scholarships

The Neil and Leah Silver Advanced Degree Scholarship, supporting Jewish students from the Greater South Bend area, proudly recognized three outstanding recipients for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Andrew Wayne graduated from Butler University in 2022 with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Anthropology, and a minor in Business Law. He currently works in Indianapolis as a beloved associate at J.Crew, where his interest in fashion and management has inspired him to pursue an MBA at Butler.

Mia Schwartz is pursuing a Master’s in Geology through a joint program at the University of Iceland and the University of Minnesota. She is currently in her second year and conducting research in Iceland, supported by a Fulbright Grant. The Silver Scholarship will help supplement her research and living expenses abroad.

Sarah Snider has been accepted into the PhD program in Film, Television, and Media at the University of Michigan, beginning this fall. Her studies will be supported by the Todd Adelman Doctoral Fellowship through the Frankel Center for Judaic Studies.

Ben Barwick brings a wealth of hands-on experience and a can-do spirit to his role as Facilities Associate at the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley. A lifelong resident of St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties, Ben is a true jack of all trades, having worked in fields ranging from bicycle mechanics and general construction to education and disability support services.

His diverse background includes roles as a window and door technician, paraeducator for middle school students with IEPs, and support staff for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This wide-ranging experience has equipped him with a practical, problem-solving mindset and a deep appreciation for community-focused work.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys gardening, building creative and functional projects—like a smart sprinkler system for his vegetable garden and a treehouse for his daughters—and diving into imaginative worlds through writing fantasy fiction and running Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. He and his wife Kaely have been married for 16 years and are proud parents to Mae (9) and Lydia (6).

You may already be familiar with NEXTGen, the Federation’s vibrant program for Jewish young adults. Its focus on building social connections has created a vital entry point into Jewish communal life. These joyful, welcoming spaces are more than just fun; they send a powerful message to young adults: you belong here.

With that foundation of connection and community in place, the time was right for something new to emerge: Voices of the Future. This initiative is a natural next step in the evolution of young adult engagement. While NEXTGen fosters social belonging, Voices responds to another essential need—the opportunity for young adults to take part in conversations that shape Jewish life in South Bend. The objective of the Voices program is to empower young adults to use their voices to shape, strengthen, and reimagine the future of our community.

Though still in its early days, the program has already accomplished a lot. In our first session, we explored what matters most to young adults at this moment. Through collaborative discussion and small-group work, we identified three shared priorities:

1. Work to unite the reform/conservative/orthodox communities here in South Bend

2. Advocate for events that prioritize keeping people engaged year-round in Jewish life

3. Encourage non-denominational Jewish Childhood Education

In our second session, we turned our focus toward imagination and possibility. What would an amazing month in Jewish South Bend look like? To explore this, we introduced three fictional characters, each with a different but distinctly Jewish identity and lifestyle. In small groups, participants envisioned the kinds of events, spaces, and connections that would make those characters feel welcomed, supported, and inspired. From these conversations emerged several ideas including: an informal sports league, a co-working space, and a Jewish community job board. This visioning exercise helped us move from abstract ideas to concrete action, illuminating the kinds of support that could truly enrich the lives of young Jewish adults in our community.

As our conversations deepened, it became clear that participants had varying levels of knowledge about current developments in South Bend’s Jewish community. To bridge that gap and ensure everyone was working from a shared understanding, we invited community leaders to join our next session. Avromi Klor provided an exciting update on the Paragon Building downtown, a project with the potential to revitalize Jewish life at the heart of the city. We were also joined by LouAnn Dobbins from Temple Beth-El and Carey Gaudern from Sinai Synagogue, along with Cristyne Porile and Moshe Kruger representing the Federation. Together, they offered background and updates on a major conversation currently underway—the potential relocation of Sinai and Temple Beth-El to the Federation campus. After hearing from leadership, participants had the opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and begin engaging directly in these important community discussions.

The conversation that followed was thoughtful, candid, and deeply needed. Some participants expressed frustration about not being more directly involved in recent decision-making processes that affect the broader community. Others raised significant questions about how we welcome and engage Jewish individuals who move to South Bend, including those who may not have strong synagogue ties. Overall, the evening highlighted the need for more open and transparent communication between leadership and young adults and affirmed that Voices of the Future is becoming a meaningful space where that dialogue can begin.

One of the challenges facing young adults in the nonprofit world, including in Jewish spaces, is that we are often spoken about, but rarely spoken with. Our needs are analyzed, our absence is lamented, but our perspectives are too frequently left out of the actual conversations that shape the future.

Voices of the Future was created to change that.

This program isn’t only a space for young adults to gather. It’s a space for meaningful exchange where participants speak with one another, with leadership, with institutions, and with the generations that came before them. Leadership doesn’t have to guess what young adults want or value. Voices creates a space where they can be asked directly and trusted to offer real input.

This is L’dor V’dor in action. Not just the passing down of tradition, but a conversation between generations. Through that kind of intentional relationship—rooted in listening and shared purpose—the future of Jewish life can begin to take shape.

If you are interested in being a part of this program, please contact me using the information below.

Dr. Louise Williams
Administrative Assistant
(574) 233-1164 x1820
Click here to email Dr. Louise.

You are not alone. These thoughts and feelings are valid—and shared. As your Federation, your community, your family, we want you to know that we are here—always here—to support you.

We have established a resource for the latest information on the war in Israel, which can be found at TheJewishFed.org/War on our Federation website. There, you’ll find the most recent updates and information.

Additionally, we are actively and intentionally working with our partners to ensure that our security procedures and protocols are as thorough and up to date as possible.

We realize that some may be feeling isolated and in need of company—not just any “company,” but specifically Jewish company to talk about current events or simply to share a cup of tea. We are here for that as well. This Federation was built for you—for community. If you feel this would be helpful during these challenging times, please contact (574) 233-1164 x1802 to arrange a conversation with Moshe, Cristyne, or another member of our wonderful community.

We would also like to extend heartfelt prayers for the safety and wellbeing of our Western Galilee Partnership Region, all of Israel, and anyone in harm’s way. We are one community, one family, one heart.

The Jewish people are threads in the same tapestry—an ancient tapestry woven together over thousands of years. When one thread pulls, we all feel it. We are feeling it now.

The Board of Directors & Professional Staff
of the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley

Bob has been the guiding force behind the Israeli emissary (shlichim) program in South Bend, helping emissaries acclimate, prepare presentations, and connect with both the Jewish and broader communities through schools, churches, and public events. His voice has been a steady source of insight and education, whether through his articles in Our Community Newsletter and the South Bend Tribune, or his appearances on local television.

Most recently, Bob’s email series, The Missing Context, has provided invaluable analysis and clarity on the war in Israel, further cementing his role as a trusted educator and advocate. As the staff liaison for the Community Relations Committee (CRC), Bob has also played a vital role in fostering interfaith and intercultural relationships throughout the region.

To honor Bob’s extraordinary service, the Federation Board has approved the creation of the Robert Feferman Israel Endowment Fund. This fund will support Israeli emissaries, enhance Israel-related programming, and assist the individual who will step into the large shoes Bob leaves behind.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Bob’s legacy by contributing to this meaningful endowment. Suggested giving levels include $200, $500, $1,000, or any amount of your choosing. Donations can be made by check (noted “Bob Fund”), by phone at (574) 233-1164, or online at TheJewishFed.org/Bob.

Let’s come together to show our appreciation for Bob’s years of tireless service.

NEXTGen is your source for all things Jewish in Greater South Bend.

We’re here to help find meaning and build relationships in all facets of life, from professional and spiritual to cultural and communal.

The NEXTGen community is made up of 21- to 45-year-olds. So whether you’re a recent grad, a parent, a CEO, single, married, here for good or just passing through, we have something for you. And if we don’t have it, we’ll happily help you find it.

We host both adult-only events and family-focused programs that are designed to let our young adults and their children enjoy an outing together while building and strengthening friendships.

Past events have included:

• Nature Hikes

• Wine and Canvas

• Regular Happy Hours at local restaurants and breweries

See What's Coming Up

“Eye opening.”

That’s how New Prairie High School sophomore Riley Ernsperger described a field trip last month to the Illinois Holocaust Museum in Skokie.

With financial support from the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, the Okon Family Fund for Holocaust Education, the Schurz Foundation, and the Kurt and Tessye Simon Fund for Holocaust Remembrance, five area schools have this semester sent around 400 students to museum. The Federation support went to New Prairie and Penn High Schools, Penn’s Discovery Middle School, and the LaSalle Academy of the South Bend Community School Corporation. South Bend Adams High School students were sponsored by the Simon Holocaust Fund.

The field trips are the culmination of expansive teacher-led Holocaust study units.

As a retired Holocaust educator at New Prairie, I was especially pleased to accompany my former student, teacher Erica (Melton) White, and her 80 New Prairie AP social studies students to Skokie on April 8. Riley told me that Ms. White prepared her class well for the experience.

But with the visit to the museum, also, Riley said, “It brought a new light to my world and how I saw things, from a first-hand perspective.” Some of the imagery is “horrific,” she told me, but that in recognizing the reality of the situation we better understand the significance of our responsibilities.

Jewish Federation Community Relations Director Bob Feferman, a leader of the field trips initiative, told me that Holocaust education, and with it the field trip experience, “sensitizes young people to the issues of bigotry and hatred and helps to prevent the spread of antisemitism and racism.”

Sid Shroyer
Holocaust Speakers Bureau,
Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley

The year 2025 marks the 120th anniversary of the founding of Temple Beth-El. Temple is going all out with a gala celebration to mark this occasion, and we hope you will be there!

On Saturday, May 31, 6-10 p.m., Temple will throw a party featuring the Maxwell House Klezmer band from Chicago, with hors d’oeuvres and a bit of bubbly too. The party will be held at the Jewish Federation and all past and present Temple members and their friends throughout the Jewish community are invited to attend. Reservations are a must to make sure we have food for everyone. Watch your emails for more details about how to make reservations and when the cutoff date will be.

On January 9, 1905, a meeting was called by Simon Greenebaum, Sam Adler, and Samuel Spiro for the purpose of “completing the organization for a new Jewish Congregation.” That new congregation—Temple Beth-El—held its first worship services on January 22, 1905, and on March 6, 1906, just over a year after the organizational meeting, the Taylor Street building was dedicated. As early as 1909, Temple Beth-El became affiliated with the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (now the Union for Reform Judaism). That relationship continues today.

By the middle of the 20th Century, Temple Beth-El had outgrown its original Taylor Street home. In May 1950, a new sanctuary and community room were dedicated. In the following years, the Temple facilities expanded to include a small Chapel, two libraries, a modern lounge, and the Kurt & Tessye Simon Education Center, which contained large and modern classroom space for Temple’s thriving Religious School.

After more than 70 years in its beautiful home on Lafayette Street, Temple sold the building and now occupies rented office space on McKinley and shares the Jewish Federation building for religious services and events. Temple’s future includes a new building – hopefully soon!

The celebration is shared by the Kurt and Tessye Simon Foundation of Temple Beth-El, which is commemorating its 50th birthday in 2025 as well. Founded through the beneficence of Temple members Kurt and Tessye Simon, the Foundation has provided educational opportunities for adults throughout the Jewish and non-Jewish community. Over the fifty years of its existence, the Simon Foundation has sponsored educational and entertaining programs of the highest caliber at no charge.

Temple Beth-El looks forward to continuing and building upon the dedication of those lay leaders and rabbis who have enabled Temple Beth-El to provide a strong Reform Jewish presence in the South Bend area. Here’s to the future!

Marzy Bauer
President, Kurt & Tessye Simon Foundation of Temple Beth-El

I began my engagement with people by asking three questions: Are you a giver? What is a “giving circle”? What is a “force multiplier?” I was most interested to hear if people make charitable gifts in today’s world of competing needs and increasing costs.

Women who have and wish to give $500 a year to charity can join with members of the Jewish Women’s Endowment Fund. Together, they have contributed $5,000 each to increase the endowed fund to the point where it now generates over $16,000 a year in grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to making the lives of women and children more safe, secure, well-educated, fun, and healthy. It took me ten years to give $5,000, but I was able, and proud, to do it with no interest. Where else would you get such a cheap loan?

I learned, in my 32 years working for the US Army, about the power of teamwork. Contributions of $500 become a force multiplier that increases those amounts exponentially. I told those I spoke to that in 2024 JWEF gave grants to the Beacon Health Foundation to provide parents with Pack & Play sleeping units to prevent the suffocation of their child who slept with them. JWEF gave a grant to the Family Justice Center of St. Joseph County for supplies and meals to allow mothers who can’t afford babysitters to attend a safe meeting place where they can express themselves, including stories of their domestic violence issues. Ruth Kremer, for example, is a member of the Jewish Federation’s Board of Directors and president of Temple Beth Shalom in Benton Harbor, MI. She used a small grant from JWEF to launch a sustainable operation called “United Through Motherhood.” Today it garners donated diapers and supplies for at-risk mothers so they can place their children in day care and go to work or school.

JWEF grants are not only for Jewish people; rather, they reflect our Jewish values of tikkun olam, chesed, and tzedakah. They show kindness in charitable giving directed at repairing the world. The grants given in 2024 also went to St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Joseph County’s food bank, Hannah’s House for meals for unmarried pregnant women, and the Neighbor-to-Neighbor Afghan Resettlement Agency—a program to facilitate Afghan women in learning English while bonding with their community. Our contributions also helped the Jewish Federation fund a slushy machine for their Gan Ideal preschool summer day camp.

There will always be more people and organizations that need help than we have grants to give out. However, the feeling we get when our funds make these differences is thrilling. So, I invite you to learn more about JWEF by contacting us at JWEF@TheJewishFed.org, or calling the Federation’s Administrative Assistant, Dr. Louise, at (574) 233-1164, ext. 1820. She will direct you to me or Judy Wein, who heads up our Grant Committee evaluating applications with explicit criteria.

We would love to talk with you about the good we have proudly done with even more grants.

Donna B. Ayres
President, Jewish Women’s Endowment Fund

Perhaps when she arrives at the Federation, she will notice the “Tree of Life” sculpture in The Berman-Brenner Family Sculpture Garden. That sculpture was created by my late maternal cousin, acclaimed artist Marilyn Simon.

Fun fact: The only other production of this “Tree of Life,” in the entire world, is at Temple Emanuel in Beverly Hills, Rabbi Geller’s former pulpit! (And where Marilyn Simon’s father was a founding member; and, in addition, where the father of Temple Beth-El’s former Rabbi Morley Feinstein had been Executive Director. Of further note, it was Rabbi Feinstein who officiated at the original dedication of Temple’s Beth-El’s Berman-Brenner Family Sculpture Garden in August 1999.) Temple Emanuel has the first casting, and Temple Beth- El has its later twin.

When I lived in Los Angeles, I attended lovely services at Temple Emanuel. And when my mother, Janet Berman, and I were designing the sculptures for our planned garden, we visited the “Tree” with Cousin Marilyn, fell in love with it and commissioned her to create one for our temple, too. (Later, Marilyn also created the bronze menorah plaque in memory of Rabbi Albert and Rose Shulman, and the stained-glass windows for Temple Beth-El’s former sanctuary.)

The “Tree of Life” at Emanuel is “planted” with its back to the wall next to the front entrance. The sculpture and setting are gorgeous and lush. However, my mother and I first at our former Temple Beth-El location—and now Federation director Moshe Kruger and I at our new Temple-Federation location—designed the garden (in progress) so that we also have the opportunity to see the “Tree” from a 360-degree view, as its back is equally as sweeping and graceful.

Rabbi Geller’s book and the Simon Foundation presentation sound inspirational, and aspirational! And if Rabbi Geller was not already aware, I hope that she will now learn of the unexpected bond between Temple Emanuel and Temple Beth-El.

Beverly Hills and South Bend may not be “Sister Cities,” but we have sister sculptures created by the same family.

May my parents,’ grandparents,’ and Marilyn Simon’s memory be for a blessing.

Pamela L. Berman
Community Contributor