Women’s History Month inspires reflection on economist Myra Strober and Jewish life

By Debra Israel

As I prepared to give a talk for Women’s History Month at Indiana State University on the two women who received the Nobel Prize in Economics, Elinor Ostrom and Esther Duflo, I also reflected on a memoir I read a few years ago by the economist Myra Strober.

Strober’s memoir Sharing the Work: What My Family and Career Taught Me about Breaking Through (and Holding the Door Open for Others) tells of her experiences earning her PhD in Economics during the late ’60s at MIT, at a time when even fewer women worked in the field.

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During Adar, remember that Walter Sommers brought joy to all who encountered him

By Student Rabbi Matt Derrenbacher

The Hebrew month of Adar is supposed to be an incredibly joyous time. Our sages teach us that as the month of Adar begins, no matter how we may be feeling about life, we are to increase our joy.

But what happens when the commandment to be joyous meets the reality of loss, sorrow and pain? On Feb. 17, our community and our world lost an absolute tzadik, Walter Sommers.

Walter was one of those rare humans who loved everyone. It didn’t matter who you were or where you came from, Walter wanted to take the time to get to know you and be your friend.

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Walter Sommers welcomed Shabbat at the Temple, among the numberless generations

By Betsy Frank

I don’t always plan which readings to include before I lead Shabbat services.

Normally, I just pick a reading at the last moment during the service. But I’m frequently amazed that the reading I pick seems so pertinent to the day.

During a recent service, right after we lit the Shabbat candles, I selected the reading at the top of Page 124 in Mishkan Tefilah.

As I read this unplanned reading, I got a lump in my throat. A beloved member of the numberless generations had just passed away — Walter Sommers.

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Sisterhood plans March 15 lunch outing; collects new clothes and bedding for foster children

By Patty Lewis

As the weather slowly begins to warm up, Sisterhood is picking up momentum with new activities this spring.

We’ll meet for lunch at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, at Delish Cafe, 8775 Wabash Ave. in Terre Haute. Members will share some good food and discuss activities and projects for 2022.

Let me know if you plan to attend so I can make reservations!

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