Jewish Federation of Reading Non-Profit Organization Jewish Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Reading, PA Change Service Requested

Jewish Federation of Reading Non-Profit Organization Jewish Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID POJewish Box Federation14925, Reading, of Reading PA 19612-4925 Non-Profit OrganizationPermit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgJewish Cultural Center U.S. PostageReading, PAID PA Jewish Federation of Reading Non-Profit Organization ChangePO Box 14925,Service Reading, Requested PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 Jewishwww.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Cultural Center U.S. PostageReading, PAID PA POChange Box 14925, Service Reading, Requested PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Reading, PA Change Service RequestedShalom The Journal of the Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by the Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa.

JewishVolume Federation 40 of No.Reading 3 MARCh 2010 Adar-NisanNon-Profit Organization 5770 Jewish Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgINSIDE Reading, PA Change Service RequestedShalom1100 Berkshire Boulevard The Journal of Shalomthe Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by the Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa. The Journal of the Reading JewishIt’s been Community an Publishedincredible as a community year. service Hope by you’ve the Jewish beenFederation here! of Reading, Pa. Volume 40 Shalom No. 3 MARCh 2010 Adar-Nisan 5770 TThehe JJournalournal ofof the ReadingIt is hardJewish to believe Community.Community that a year Published Published has gone as as by a a since community community we relocated service service to the by by Jewish the the Jewish Jewish Cultural Federation Federation Center at of1100 of Reading, Reading, Berkshire Pa. Pa. Volume 40 No.Boulevard 5 in Wyomissing. If you haven’tMAY been here,2010 we hope to see you in the very near future.Iyar-Sivan For those of you 5770 who VolumeINSIDE 40 No. 5 use the Center regularly or from ‘timeSUMMERMAY to time’, 2010 we 2015 always appreciate your visits and encourage Iyar-Sivan your feedback. 5770 INSIDE And,1100 thank you Berkshire all for your support Boulevard throughout the year! ReflectionsINSIDE on Paul D. Cohn,It’s President, been Jewish an incredibleFederation of Reading year. Cindy Hope Balchunas, you’ve Chair, Jewish been Cultural here! Center Committee Passover ShalomA veryTammy K. Mitgang,festive Executive FederationDirector, Jewish Federation ofAnnual Reading/Jewish CulturalMeeting Center The Journal of the ReadingIt is hardJewish to believe Community that a year Published has gone as by asince community we relocated service to the by Jewish the Jewish Cultural Federation Center at 1100 of Reading, Berkshire Pa. Page 12 Members of the community turned out in force on Sunday, June 14,There Boulevardfor the Jewish inis Wyomissing.Federation no freeof Reading’s If you haven’tlunch Annual beenMeeting here,— and we or hope is to seethere? you in the very near future. For those of you who Volume 40 No.Picnic 3 useat Wyomissing the Center Hills regularly Park. or fromM ‘timeARC to time’,h 2010 we always appreciate your visits and encourageAdar-Nisan your feedback. 5770 By AfterPaul aD. brief Cohn meeting to take careAnd, of Federation thankCounty you business, Jews all for have your gone support to the JCC’s throughout preschool theto year!look at all expenditures, making sure that we participantsFederation presidentwere treated to a kosher barbecue byfor Boscov’s its excellent A La learning curriculum.Many times are being good stewards of your contributions. FreeINSIDE Jewish CartePaul Catering, D. 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Jewish Again,countries a special who thank want you to move to Israel, or who say “thank you.” For those of you who are still needs to study the Holocaust. attempt to twist the truth of what actually Trudy Katz and Ellen Azrael David, Larry and Alison Rotenberg eventscommunity? leading upIn theaddition, Holocaust JFS and provides to Hilde, an Ellen andhave Larry serious for sharing needs their in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. try Althoughto put these one events can into study historical the happened.thoughts and Again, memories a special with thank us. you Jewish Family eventsoutreachMaking leading program up the and Holocaust actsthe as and a clearinghouseworld to Hilde, Ellen anda LarryAsbetter I mentionedfor sharing their above, placeTrudy the Katz funds and raisedwith EllenPhotos Azrael by by PleaseBarbarasong pledgeDavid,Nazimov andLarry now. except and As asAlison youdance noted haveRotenberg previously Service for other agencies in our area. As economic the Campaign represent the largest portion of heard me say, Jews have a rich tradition of try to putOn thesea recent events Thursday into historical afternoon thoughts at the and memoriesa better place. with us. The group had prepared aPhotos dance by Barbara Nazimov except as noted 2010 totals conditionsentranceYashek tohave the worsened, crowded lecture CarmelJFS has Marketto seen focus anin tothe the Federation’s infectious on France tune budget. of Mark Last Ronson’s year you “Uptown helped leading by example. All of us, no matter how as ofPage Feb. 8 19 increaseTel Aviv, inas people shoppers looking moved for quickly help. from one Funk.”contribute $600,000 to the Campaign. A few large or small the contribution, have a chance vegetable• Lakin stallEarly to Educationanother and Center carried –out JCC’s their yearsYemin ago, Orde’sour Campaign pre-military was over program $1 million. for to become leaders. It all adds up. All of us can YashekThis year’s lectureRichard J. Yashek to focusefforts to better on understand France these preschoolShabbat preparations,and kindergarten a group have of ayoung long menhistory in youngSo you men, can whichsee that is supported our annual by Yemincampaign Orde is change the world for the better. Jewish lecture will be held Thursday, May terrible events actually accomplished ofwhite providing shirts gathered,quality education most of them in aof nurturing,Ethiopian Educationalmore important Initiatives, than ever. is located The Federationin the northern has Free lunch…I don’t think so. It is worth its Community 6, Thisat 8 p.m.year’s in RichardMemorial J. Chapel Yashek at effortstheir aims? to better Or haveunderstand they actually these positiveorigin. environment. Many generations of Berks developmenttaken steps to community help reduce of our Hatzor expenses Haglilit. and weight in gold. Campaign lectureAlbright will College. be held The Thursday, speaker will May be terribledistorted events historical actually understanding accomplished The group consisted of members of the Yemin Yemin Orde is backed by local dollars from $110,708 6,Richard at 8 p.m. J. Golsan, in Memorial Ph.D., aChapel professor at theirand aims?challenged Or have the theynotion actually of the Orde Men’s Pre-Military Leadership Program for the Jewish Federation of Reading’s Israel Now 20152010 totals Albrightof French College. at Texas The A&M speaker University. will be distorteduniqueness historical of the Holocaust understanding as well as 2010 totals Immigrant Youth, ormechina in Hebrew, a gap campaign. as of April 19 RichardHe is the J. Golsan, author Ph.D.,or editor a professor of more andthe terriblechallenged singularity the ofnotion the fate of ofthe its asas ofof JuneFeb. 3019 year program specifically designed to strengthen YOEI also supports the IsraElite Women’s 2010 totals ofthan French a dozen at Texas books. A&M He hasUniversity. been a uniquenessvictims? This of lecturethe Holocaust will explore as well these as academic and leadership skills for Israel’s at- Leadership Program for Immigrant Youth, or as ofJewish April 19 Hevisiting is the professor author orat theeditor Sorbonne of more in theissues terrible through singularity a discussion of the fate of recent of its JewishJewish Community risk immigrant youth prior to military or national Women’s Mechina. Community thanParis, a wheredozen hebooks. taught He courses has been on the a victims?works of This literature lecture and will filmexplore as thesewell as Community volunteer service. The women’s program was established CampaignCampaignJewish visitingmemory professor of World at War the SorbonneII in postwar in issuesthe 1990’s through trials a ofdiscussion French citizens of recent on Participants in Yemin Orde pre-military program Campaign The “flash mob” dance honored the memory in 2013 to empower young women from Community Paris,French where literature he taught and coursesculture. on the workscharges of ofliterature crimes againstand film humanity as well foras $301,088$110,708 of Hadar Goldin, who was killed during Israel’s the margins of Israeli society with the tools women brings participants from around the Campaign$273,000 memoryFor moreof World than War three II in decadespostwar thecomplicity 1990’s trialsin the of Final French Solution. citizens on *Includes transfers from 2014 Operation Protective Edge. The Mechina’s necessary to rise to leadership positions, in their country to the northern development town of FrenchFrance literature has been and preoccupied culture. with chargesThe oflecture crimes is against held in humanity memory for of Donor Advised Funds youth partnered with the Goldin family to mandatory military service and beyond. Migdal Haemek, where they live, learn, and $273,000 traumaticFor more moments than three and eventsdecades of complicityRichard J. inYashek, the Final a Holocaust Solution. survivor emphasize the importance of making the world The intensive 10-month program for young volunteer together. Franceits recent has past. been Butpreoccupied have national with andThe longtime lecture Berks is held County in memory resident. of traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivor 2010 totals its recent past. But have national and longtime Berks County resident. as of Feb. 19 Jewish Community Campaign $110,708 Page 2 SHALOM Summer 2015

HOW YOUR FEDERATION GIFT IS MAKING A IFFERENCE D Allocations for 2015 -­‐ 2016 $598,794 89% of Funds Raised Go To Programs

Jewish Education & Identity 19%

Ensuring our Jewish Future Community Programs Senior Services 26% 17%

Connecting the Community

Community Support Services 11% Advocating for Jewish Causes National Programs & Advocacy 10% Israel & Overseas Campaign & Admin. 4% 11% Education/Building Relationships 2% There’s still time to support campaign

By Richard Nassau Development Director Thank you. Your support of the 2015 Community Campaign is making a difference in thousands of Jewish and non-Jewish lives. Your Federation gift ensures the strength of each vital element of our community. We support Jewish pre-schools to educate our Youth programming Jewish Community High School children. Your donations ensure our elders get the care they need tp live in dignity. Your gift provides Holocaust education and Jewish programming, along with camping and Israel experiences for our young people. And your support helps us advocate for Israel and fight anti-Semitism in the U.S. and around the world. What we do in Reading is an important part of a larger aggregate — joining Jewish communities across the US and around the globe. Our work links your interests and core principles with funding opportunities that are meeting local and world-wide needs. The 2015 Campaign is not over. The needs of the Jewish people continue every day. They continue in places seen PJ Library Education for all ages and unseen, from the very young to the most elderly. Your 2015 Campaign contribution helps bring food, medicine, and emergency shelter to infirm and elderly Jews in war-torn Ukraine. It provides transportation for seniors here in Reading. It brings Jewish students together to rediscover their heritage and combat anti-Semitism. Your support helps sustain our Jewish community. It provides for those in need through the power of communal giving, impacting thousands of lives locally and beyond. If you have already made a 2015 gift — thank you. If not, please consider making your 2015 gift now. You can make Taking holiday celebrations to senior citizens Helping the needy here, in Israel and around the world your gift online through our website – ReadingJewishCommunity.Org. You issue for your convenience. All financial The Jewish Federation of Reading is close to $3 billion annually for social welfare, can call and donate over the phone – gifts are welcome and appreciated. part of the Jewish Federations of North human services and educational needs. 610.921.0624. You can mail a gift to our Your generosity makes a difference America (JFNA.) JFNA represents 151 Federation touches more Jewish office or stop by in person. There is a here in Reading, in Israel, in Ukraine, Jewish Federations and 300 smaller lives than any other organization in contribution form on the back page of this and throughout the world. communities which raise and distribute the world. October 2012 SHALOM Page 3 Summer 2015 SHALOMLooking forward to a great NewPage Year 3 DON’T MISS OUT From the President’s Desk By Alvin Katz in need. Providing food, assistance with visit, among other sites, Yemin Orde, and Be sure to pick up the October Chairman expenses and many other aspects of getting Meir Panim, which we support through I want to take this those less fortunate back on their feet. your contributions. Yemin Orde is a youth Berks County Living Plenty going on at Federationtime to wish allthis of you a summerOur ܁nance committee has been working village in the Carmel mountains near Haifa magazine featuring a special very Happy and Sweet overtime ensuring that our funds are well which caters to youth in need, providing supplement produced by the By William D. Franklin mingled, schmoozed and made new New Year. cared and accounted for. I also want to them with shelter, emotional support and Jewish Federation of Reading. President friends. As we enter into the recognize Tammy Mitgang and her entire an excellent education. Meir Panim is, for More than 100 Working on new and future projects. New Year, we reflect Federation/JCC staff who work tirelessly the lack of a better description, similar to Special thanks to Campaign members of our Amanda has successfully started on what we have for you. what we would call a soup kitchen but with Co-Chairs Howard & Victoria community came Chevrah, our new young adults group, accomplished this past As we enter the New Year, I am happy to a different concept. Here those in need can together Sunday, and expanded the impact of PJ Library. year and what challenges lie ahead for us announce that we have a Mission to Israel get hot meals that are SERVED to them, not Hafetz for spearheading the June 14, for the Plans are being made for an exciting in the coming year. Your Federation has this month in conjunction with the Allentown cafeteria style as here in the States, so that project, which raised $19,200 for Federation’s Annual Maimonides Society event in October. provided many interesting programs and Federation. With the numbers participating, they don’t feel like they are getting a handout. Federation! See Page 7 for a list Meeting and Festival. Don Fox has again kindly offered speakers this past year. We have attended this should be a very worthwhile Mission. In addition, Meir Panim serves thousands of advertisers and patrons. Dr. Larry Rotenberg the services of Fox Theaters, and to those less fortunate, maintained our state They will be visiting many sites and meeting of hot meals to schoolchildren throughout ran a successful and the program committee is reviewing certi܁ed Nursery School. We completed with some well-known names in Israel Israel and maintains a Goodwill-like facility Look for it at local retailers and brief annual meeting and led us in potential movies for next year. We a very successful Gratz College program politics and military. I feel certain that many to help furnish clothing and furniture to those singing a rousing Hine Ma Tov. We recently were awarded a grant to start for our teenagers and a wonderful senior if not all of them will return with a better in need. For both of these organizations and libraries and at the Berks Encore had community members ranging an innovative program to connect our program. Our Jewish Family Service has understanding of Israel and its position in Jews throughout the world who receive your Senior Expo Oct. 23 at BodyZone. from 7 months to 97 years old, and youth and seniors. Read more details again done a wonderful job helping those the world and the Middle East. They will support, I thank you. Herb Schneider, our 97-year-old sage, on this page. From the President’s Desk spoke about his participation in and We are starting a letters column in enjoyment of JFS’s senior services our Shalom. This will be a forum for programs. Everyone enjoyed the community dialogue on local, national Being Alma delicious Boscov’s-catered kosher and international issues and events By Tammy K. Mitgang East troubled her, and she knew that ground in Ethiopia — the Jewish Agency bears their name, and as the ܁rst female barbecue and the Rita’s sorbet dessert. that have an impact on our Jewish A big-time game of Jenga at the Federation Annual Meeting and Picnic. There was swimming and games. No community. President life for Israel — though it is a ܁rst-­world for Israel and the American Jewish Joint President of the Jewish Federation of one was hurt playing Jenga, and we If you’d like to contribute a letter or NemirowAlma Lakin at would [email protected] be economyWyomissing, like thePA 19610 USA, was dif܁cult and Distribution Committee (JDC) — feared Reading, she and Dan Tannenbaum, were able to recover all of the toys share your thoughts on this feature, theor write ܁rst us to at: pooh-­pooh Jewish Federation complicated.It looks like 2015-16 will be a great for the Ethiopian Jewish community’s an executive director of the Federation, the kids threw up into the trees. We please email Shalom editor Mark anyof Reading, notion that 1100 she Berkshire Blvd., year.When Have I intervieweda good summer. her for a video safety when rebel forces threatened brokered a partnership with her alma was amazing, special that recognized her and her husband, to overrun Mengistu Haile-Mariam’s mater, Albright College, that would or that she inspired the Ed’s community service and the Commmunist government. establish the Holocaust Library and extraordinary in others. establishment of the Holocaust Library What followed was one of the most Resource Center on the campus. Project to bring together localPetite, big hearted teens, and seniorsand Resource Center at Albright College, dramatic rescue operations in Israel’s Being Alma meant tireless service deliberate, time spent she did not talk about her efforts to raise history. Over 34 hours and four minutes, and no fanfare — certainly no pictures The Reading Jewish Community In addition, there will be participation The youth will be better prepared to youth groups in the community. It is also with Alma was never money and resettle Soviet Jews in our 34 Israeli cargo and passenger planes if she was expected to be in them. High School (JCHS) was successful in of the Jewish Cultural Center, The encounter Jewish life cycle events hoped that this experience will motivate about her. community. Instead, she spoke of how worked around the clock, airlifting 14,310 Accolades were not her style; but she being awarded a pilot project in Inter- Jewish Family Service of the Jewish for their own family and the Reading those teens who are not yet participating She cared about others — strangers, thrilled she was to meet with Natan and Ethiopian Jews to Israel from Addis was not without opinion — thoughtful Generational Jewish Study by national Federation of Reading and mentoring of community. They will also bring back in the JCHS to sample the courses being family and friends. And she worked to Avital Sharanksy — refuseniks who at Ababa. Alma would have beamed having and at times, determined. But, no matter anonymous grant philanthropy. the participants by other community and to their respective youth groups, locally offered and meet the teachers, Rabbi improve the world — here at home, in extraordinary personal risk and sacri܁ce heard MK Sholomo Molla’s incredible life what she put her efforts behind, you could The project submission was titled regional consultants. and regionally, the importance of the Dov Lerner and Calvin Tesler. Israel and around the world. When you helped to spark and later ignite a global story that he credits to the work of the be sure that she was right by your side, “LaDor VaDor – HEVRUTAH,” “A Learning “A project of shared learning for teens Jewish tradition in providing dignity and During the summer Rabbi Dov will were with Alma, it was all about you, it movement to free Soviet Jewry. Between Federation system that saved his life. working hand in hand with you and others Partnership -From Generation to Generation,” and senior adults has long been a dream meaning to each individual and each create a curriculum for the coming year. was you who were front and center and 1990 and 1997, Federation’s Operation (see page 5) to do great things. Jewish teens and seniors will be nominated of mine”, said Rabbi Dov Lerner, who stage in life. It will be based upon selected Biblical made to feel special. Exodus campaign nationally raised $1 Alma shared her excitement and pride Alma considered herself privileged and then volunteer to be regular participants will direct the funded two-year project. “We were nominated for this opportunity,” texts read on the Jewish holiday cycle Alma believed that we are responsible billion to rapidly rescue and resettle more that helped to raise nearly $1 million to have enjoyed so much of life. One of for the forthcoming year. This educational experiment will explore, Rabbi Dov saud, “by NACCHHS (The supplemented by Rabbinic textual insights for each other according to the principles than one million Soviet Jews in Israel and locally toward the capital campaign that her favorite memories was crossing over This will be a collaborative project compare, and contrast how two different North American Association of Community and comments. Sources will be from of chesed (caring and compassion), North America. PS – Alma marched with would build the U.S. Holocaust Memorial into Jordan when the borders with Israel under the Jewish Federation of Reading generations can examine the same & Congregational Hebrew High Schools) Mishnah, Gemarah, Midrash and also Torah (Jewish learning), tikkun olam others in our community on the National Museum in Washington, America’s were reopened. “To think, she would bringing together the youth in the Reading traditional texts and yet bring to the table with which the Reading JCHS is now modern sources. In addition the rabbis (repairing the word) and tzedakah (social Mall in Washington during one of the national institution for the documentation, reminisce; “that we along with other Jewish Community High School, the their individual insights based on vastly affiliated. This Reading Jewish high of the community, Rabbi Michelson, justice). And her life was an embodiment largest marches in American history. That study and interpretation of Holocaust Federation mission-goers, met with King Reading chapter of B’nai B’rith Youth different experiences and memories. school was a branch of Gratz College teen Rabbi Lipsker and Rabbi Abelson, have of those principles. rally would become a turning point in this history. She reଂected on the mixture of Hussein. Ed and I were so fortunate.” Organization (BBYO) and the Reform By establishing a relationship with a program until all seven branches of the volunteered to each teach a trimester for She believed in the bold collective movement. raindrops and tears that fell the night of Her family was her heart. She Congregation Oheb Sholom chapter of senior, our teens will each experience Philadelphia area were condensed to one the first period of each Sunday evening of Federation and knew that together She spoke about the unity of the its dedication as she, Ed and others from considered a better world, her National Federation of Temple Youth and internalize the mitzvah to promote campus in Elkins Park/Melrose.” which offers students even more choices we could mobilize ܁nancial and social Jewish world that resulted in the our community donned their construction responsibility and life — a special reward. (NFTY). a caring community of the elderly. Teens will be selected to represent the in learning opportunities. resources that could rescue Jews, Operation Solomon rescue mission that hats and toured the vast and important I think those of us who knew Alma were strengthen the Jewish people and took place in May 1991. The state of structure. the truly the fortunate ones. literally, change the world. Israel, together with Jewish Federation At home in Berks County, the JCC’s Alma Lakin passed away Aug. 27 at Meir Panim fighting hunger in IsraelThe ongoing in dignified turbulence in the Middle waysof North America’s major partners on the Lakin Early Education Center preschool the age of 82. With 25 percent of Israel’s population trained to not only deliver the healthy opportunities for advancement that they youth clubs assist these children living in poverty, Meir Panim strives to meals but also to inquire into the welfare of would not otherwise have.” by providing a relaxed, supportive end hunger in dignified ways. Founded the recipient and look out for their overall Since the Meals for Children environment with professional in 2000, Meir Panim, which is supported health. Volunteers have been known to Federationprogram was launched, there mission has teachers who to help Israel with homework, begins Oct. 21 by local dollars through the Jewish discover the need for basic household beenA ajoint remarkable mission improvement composed in theof chairedplay games, by Michael teach and computer Susan Fromm skills and Berks County will be joining the group purpose and heightened appreciation Federation of Reading’s Israel Now appliances or minor repairs, which this communityacademic andmembers overall from performance the Reading of Victorprovide and enriching Dena Hammel. activities In additionalong with to on the mission. and connection to Jewish identity. campaign, boasts no less than eight impressive organization also provides areaimpoverished and the Lehigh children Valley as will well leave as thefor Mitgang,a nourishing Jayne meal. Kleinman, Cultural Center The Reading Jewish community has Mission participants will visit Reading’s programs which cater to the young and through its Power of Giving program. Israelsightings Oct. of 21. many more smiles. programWith directortheir andcan-do Mark Goldstein,attitude, bene܁ted from teaming with the seasoned Israel Now projects — two important old in need throughout Israel. Meir Panim’s Power of Giving, or ForSadly, the foodReading is not community, enough. Too it is often the Executivecommitment Director to Israel’s of Jewish poor Federation and desire of mission-goers from the Allentown area humanitarian efforts that both save Famous for its restaurant-style soup “Koach Latet” program collects second- ܁rstthese poormission children the are Federation left to fend forhas ledin theto help Lehigh all ofValley Israel’s will staffneedy the live mission. a better and Lehigh Valley Federation’s “well- and change lives — Yemin Orde Youth kitchens throughout Israel that use hand equipment, furniture, household morethemselves than 15 years.as their A goalcaretakers of Federation work todayRabbi and Brianlook forward Michelson to tomorrow, from oiled” mission process. Village in the Carmel Mountains and Meir volunteer “waiters” to serve at least electrical appliances, and clothing, Presidentlong hours Tammy or Mitgangcome fromand Federation abusive CongregationMeir Panim succeeds Oheb Sholom at their and mission Rabbi “Mark Goldstein and his staff have Panim’s new nutrition center in Kiryat 300,000 hot meals annually to eager refurbishes and cleans the items and leadership,homes. In conjunctionthe Reading with mission the Ministry is co- Yosefin helping Lipsker, those Chabad-Lubavitch who need it the most of created over the years a network of Gat, where the community will dedicate patrons, Meir Panim not only ensures distributes them to needy individuals. of Welfare, Meir Panim’s TikvaHope feel respected and dignified. resources and processes that have the kitchen that was made possible that the needy leave with a full stomach Among the thousands of Meir Panim bene܁ted our community — newbies, thanks to the Reading community’s but also a full heart. Staff members go out recipients are victims of terror attacks if you will, when it comes to mission funding efforts. of their way to provide a listening ear and trying to rebuild their lives, lone IDF SHALOM planning. And, we are neighbors. The The dedication will be a big thank you a warm smile to those who need it most. soldiers, new immigrants who arrive with AA newspapernewspaper servingserving thethe JewishJewish communitycommunity ofof Reading,Reading, Pennsylvania,Pennsylvania, mission project is just the start of future to our community and a proud moment. Knowing that Israel has hundreds of little more than the clothes on their backs, andand publishedpublished monthly,monthly, SeptemberSeptember throughthrough June,June, underunder thethe JewishJewish joint efforts,” Mitgang said. With two out of every ܁ve children in thousands of needy people too proud the elderly and handicapped along with FederationFederation ofof Reading.Reading. FundedFunded byby thethe ReadingReading UnitedUnited JewishJewish Campaign.Campaign. There are many details that need Israel living below the poverty line, to accept help in public locations or thousands of needy children who receive to be addressed when moving a group Meir Panim’s network of soup kitchens, unable to leave their homes, Meir Panim backpacks and school supplies. GeneralGeneral Offices:Offices: 11001100 BerkshireBerkshire Blvd.,Blvd., SuiteSuite 125125 of more than 50 people across Israel. restaurants and feeding centers, ensure maintains a Meals-on-Wheels program According to the Israeli government Wyomissing,Wyomissing, PAPA 1961019610 Jewish Federation of North America’s warm, nutritious meals for thousands of that delivers nutritious food to more statistics as of 2014, one out of three Phone:Phone: 610-921-0624610-921-0624 FAX:FAX: 610-929-0886610-929-0886 Missions Department and its staff in children and families every day. than 125,000 destitute men, women and children in Israel go hungry each day. WebWeb site:site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgwww.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Israel along with Kenes Tours will further At Yemin Orde, the group is anxious to children, many of whom are disabled Meir Panim has inaugurated several ensure that each and every day of the see ܁rsthand the progress that has been Jewish Federation of Reading and Holocaust survivors. programs geared specifically to end the Jewish Federation of Reading mission is maximized. made at the village since the wild܁res Chairman: Alvin Katz Working closely with Israel’s vicious cycle that poverty poses to these Chairman: Larry Rotenberg Federation missions are travel devastated it in 2010. President: Tammy K. Mitgang Municipal Welfare and Absorption children. A hungry child cannot succeed President: William D. Franklin experiences unlike any other. Along The group is honored that Chaim Peri, Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor Services Department, Meir Panim is in school, which leads to spending time Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor with visits to historic and sacred sites, beloved educator and director of Yemin Proofreaders: Esther Strauss & Federation staff regularly updated as to who is in need on the streets, which often leads to Proofreaders: Federation staff museums and popular tourist destinations, Orde for 30 years, will personally be hosting Member: American Jewish Press Association of this life-sustaining program. Meir alcohol and drug addiction. Member: American Jewish Press Association Federation missions provide exclusive, the group during a tour and lunch. The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading Panim work in cooperation with many In a letter written by Israeli Prime insider access to residents, community Young people from the village will join government offices demonstrates that Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Meir leaders, area experts, and political the group for the tour and share their The opinions expressedDeadline in Shalom for theare of November the writers and notissue the Jewish is Oct. Federation 5 of Reading the organization has its finger on the Panim, he stated that well-fed children personalities and provide a sense of experiences. pulse of the country and the needs of “will be able to study with ease, on full the impoverished. stomachs, helping them to achieve Next deadline, Aug. 5 Devoted teams of volunteers are academic success and offering them Page 4 SHALOM Summer 2015 New rabbi takes office at Kesher Zion Synagogue Kesher Zion Synagogue is pleased the Myers Fellowship and used strong sense of community and have to officially welcome Rabbi Matthew the commission to produce a new a vibrant synagogue life at Kesher Abelson as its new spiritual leader. Hebrew aleph-beit song and music Zion.” He took office July 8, with a video to promote Hebrew literacy. He Rabbi Abelson said those who welcoming oneg for his first Shabbat is a recipient of the Leffell Fellowship, attend services under his leadership services on July 11. and on the board of candidates for can expect plenty of singing. He Recently ordained by the Jewish Mercaz. plans to be active in working with Theological Seminary in Manhattan, Kesher Zion President Myron the community to encourage support Rabbi Abelson received his Bachelor Kabakoff called on the Reading of Israel. of Arts in History from Harvard in Jewish community to welcome Rabbi He said education is a high priority 2002. Abelson to the area. for him. Among his plans is a 10-week While earning his rabbinical Rabbi Abelson said he is pleased course in Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, degree, he attended Pardes Institute with the reception he has received that will make the daunting volume and Hebrew University in Jerusalem. so far. more approachable. A native of Scarsdale, N.Y., Rabbi U.S. history students in Jerusalem, “The congregants I’ve met have “Teaching is a passion of mine,” Abelson has a variety of experiences taught religious school and coached been extremely nice,” he said. he said. “One of the benefits of with youth: he taught history to football and basketball, and served “Reading is a beautiful city. I’m being a rabbi is getting to work special education students in New as sports specialist at Camp Ramah. excited to study Torah with the with students of all ages. That’s York and to Advanced Placement Rabbi Abelson was awarded people here and work to develop a something I certainly want to do.”

I can name that tune in three notes … Who hasn’t tried to name that dinner by Boscov’s Catering, participate LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES tune while listening to songs with in music trivia and have the chance to win CHABAD CENTER OF BERKS COUNTY (610) 921-0881 family and friends? Come try out your some FUN prizes! By popular request, Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. luck with music trivia at the JCC on kosher wine and beer will be available Saturday, Aug. 8! Not only will you be for purchase that evening. KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE (610) 374-1763 naming that tune but also answering Deli dinner will be served at 6 p.m., Weekly services Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. lots of other music trivia questions with music trivia lasting from 7 to 9:30 Friday Evening Service – Please call for service information related to all genres of music, for all p.m. Babysitting available upon request with one week’s notice ages! We kindly ask for RSVPs by Monday, REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 This fun night will be hosted by DJ Aug. 3 to reserve your spot. Summer Shabbat services Fridays at 7:45 p.m., except Aug. 7 service at 6 p.m. Jam on Sound, and for $10 per person We’re looking forward to jamming out you will receive a delicious kosher deli with everyone on Aug. 8! CONGREGATION SHOMREI HABRITH PJ Library event: Meet local author in August

This summer we We’re thrilled to welcome Mara to have a special treat for our PJ Library community and hope that PJ families with a visit many of you can join us on Aug. 18! from local author Mara Please RSVP to Amanda Rockliff! Rockliff, who ([email protected] or 610-921- lives in Berks County, 0624) so we can plan appropriately for will be joining us at crafts and snacks. the Wyomissing Public Want to sign your child or grandchild Library on Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 6 p.m. up for FREE Jewish themed books Rockliff will discuss her new PJ Library each month? Please contact Amanda book, “Chik Chak Shabbat,” play a game ([email protected]) or visit www. with us and talk about writing books. pjlibrary.org to sign up today! Albright College to digitize and Chabad LubavitCh v”c share archival Holocaust materials Kosher CooKing CLass for Ladies!

Albright College’s Edwin & Alma the CIC Consortium’s 47 other partner N. Lakin Holocaust Resource Center colleges, as well as outside scholars, (HRC) has received a grant to digitize educators, students and community and publicly share some of its archived members interested in learning about aditional Cookin materials for researchers, educators and Yashek’s personal experiences during Tr g the community-at-large. one of the darkest chapters in human The center has received a grant from history. ←with a modern twist→ the Council of Independent Colleges “Given the reality that within the next (CIC) to digitize the Richard J. Yashek decade most Holocaust survivors will no honey CaKe baKing Collection — a 221-folder assembly longer be alive, the ability to combine of documents, correspondence, birth the video testimony with the written Our first class of the year certificates, deportation lists and video experiences of a survivor and offer easy will feature interviews representing the personal digital access to these primary source account of Yashek, a German-born archival materials, will be an invaluable Honey cake baking which Holocaust survivor, who after the war tool for students during the 21st century will include recipes and became a highly-regarded business and and beyond,” according to Albright’s insights for a sweet new civic leader in Berks County. project application, compiled by Gingrich year. The materials will be available Library Director Rosemary Deegan and online through the CIC’s Shared Shelf HRC Coordinator Amanda Hornberger. Consortium on Digital Resources for Born in Luebeck, Germany, in 1929, Teaching and Research. Richard Yashek and his family were sundAy, August 30 The Holocaust Resource Center is deported to Latvia in 1941. In March 6:30 pm a joint effort between the College and 1942, they were separated and Yashek Jewish Federation of Reading. The center stayed with his father while his younger At ChAbAd LubAvitCh contains more than 2,800 volumes of text brother went with his mother. He never 2320 hAmpden bLvd and audio-visual materials that support its saw his mother and brother again. In ReAding, pA 19604 mission to educate the community about October 1944, his father was separated the Holocaust and other genocides. from him and never seen again. Though carefully preserved, the Yashek survived the Nazi death camps Yashek Collection is fragile and only and eventually immigrated to the United available to view in person and by States. He worked for the family business, $12.00 appointment at Albright’s Gingrich Library. J. C. Ehrlich Co. Inc., retiring as company Through the consortium, the materials vice president in 1999. He died in 2005. rsvP a must by august 24th to will be digitized and made available to The following year, the family donated [email protected] or 610-334-1577 not only Albright students and faculty but Yashek’s papers to Albright’s HRC. Summer 2015 SHALOM Page 5 All about bridge at the JCC By Vicky Sokoloff that bid 3NT and made 4 for a score of 430. Every Wednesday local players gather at the JCC Your “result” for each hand is based on comparing for an afternoon of duplicate bridge. Although it is an your score to all the other scores for players in your open game sanctioned by the ACBL (American Contract direction. You get 1 point for each pair you beat, and Bridge League), many JCC members are regulars at ½ point for each pair you tie. So in the example above this game. If you play party/social bridge with family or the pair that got 430 will get a 9 on the board – they friends, you might have wondered, “What is duplicate beat all 9 other pairs. The pair that went down will get a bridge?” 0. All the math is done by the computer; you just enter At party bridge you are playing against the other your score. pair at the table. Your score is heavily dependent There is still some luck involved in the game. If on who is getting the good cards. At duplicate someone made a mistake against you, that’s good Dottie Williamson, Hilde Gernsheimer and Evi Drezner before a game. bridge your score is ranked against the other pairs luck. If someone made an unusual but brilliant play who played the same hands. Lets say there are 10 against you, that’s bad luck. But everyone has played tables at the game – that’s 20 pairs: 10 playing N/S the same cards. and 10 playing E/W. By the end of the session each At the end of the session the results for each pair will have played 27 hands (three each against board are added (by computer) and the winners are nine different opponents) and each hand (called a determined. Players frequently think of the final result board) will have been played nine times. At the end as a percentage. A 50 percent game would be average. of each round the boards and the E/W players move A 60 percent game is very good and will frequently be a to the next table. winner. The reward for winning is Masterpoints, which The board used to hold the cards as they move through the session.. We will consider a hand in which you as North bid accumulate over your lifetime and determine your rank and made 3 spades for a score of 140. Is that a good in the ACBL. You can the view the actual results of a can also arrange one or more coaching sessions with result? That depends on what happened on the same typical Wednesday game at www.unit121bridge.com/ an experienced player to learn the rules and stratagies hand at the other tables. Suppose one pair managed to results/W150617A.htm of duplicate bridge. bid 3 and go down one for a score of -50. But at another To encourage new players, games are stratified so While the players who come out on Wednesday table a pair bid 3 and made 4 for a score of 170. Still that newcomers can win some points by beating others are serious about the game, it is still a friendly game another result was bid 4 and made 4 (not vulnerable) at their level. A good start to trying duplicate bridge is to and a good place to begin. JCC members play for $3; for a score of 420. But the best result was to the pair come to a game and just watch(kibbitz) a session. You non-members pay $6. Feeling at home at Camp Harlam

Our Jewish community is well- represented once again at the Union for Reform Judaism’s Camp Harlam in Kunkletown, Pa. Front row, from left, Rachel Radosh, Gabrielle Levine, Danielle Radosh, Talia Spillerman, Alexa Chronister, Rabbi Brian Michelson, Aspen Weizer, Easton Weizer, Ruby Nemeroff, Elianna Alweis and Will Stein Back row, from left, Gabriella Michelson, Brett Driben, Naomi Michelson, Molly Nemirow, Ari Spillerman, Brandon Missan, Chase Weizer and Holly Michelson Joining Brian and Holly Michelson on the camp staff this year are Gabriella Michelson, drama specialist; Brett Driben, waterfront specialist, and Naomi Michelson, cabin counselor.

who is David? KUWAIT ISRAEL pop. 2.6M BAHRAIN pop. 7.9M pop. 1.2M who is LEBANON pop. 4.1M Goliath? WEST BANK (Judea & Samaria) pop. 2.1M SYRIA TUNISIA GAZA STRIP pop. 22.5M pop. 10.7M pop. 1.7M IRAQ pop. 31.1M IRAN MOROCCO pop. 78.9M pop. 32.3M

ALGERIA pop: 37.4M LIBYA EGYPT pop. 5.6M pop. 83.7M SAUDI ARABIA pop. 26.5M

OMAN pop. 3.1M There’s no lack of media coverage on Israel, the Middle East’s sole democracy JORDAN The Jewish News Service (JNS.org) was pop. 6.5M QATAR with civil rights and a free press. What is pop. 1.9M lacking is objective coverage. This tiny Jewish created to correct that. Our weekly reporting, YEMEN pop. 24.8M nation, the size of New Jersey, with less than including exclusive distribution rights for Israel UNITED ARAB eight million people, a quarter of them Hayom, Israel’s most popular daily, now appears EMIRATES .org pop. 5.3M non-Jewish, generally receives inaccurate, in 31 Jewish weeklies. We invite you to join us jnjns.org/subscribe-to-ous r-newsletter harsh, even hostile coverage from the world’s press. in getting the truth out about Israel. To receive our FREE weekly newsletter go to jns.org/ subscribe-to-our-newsletter today! Page  Shalom March 2010 Community News Obituaries

Lucy Suzanne Knoblauch L. (Sulman) Moyer. He is also survived Zeidman, 96, Wyomissing. by his daughters, Aileen D., widow Surviving are a son, Bruce F., of Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman, of Roxanne, wife of Les Walker, of Batavia Shillington; a brother, Harry Knoblauch, Ohio; sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine husband of Edith Knoblauch, of Reading; K. Moyer, of Sinking Spring and Jay a sister, Ruth Balis of Wyomissing; and H., husband of Margaret R. Moyer, of several nieces and nephews. Muhlenberg Township. Other survivors Page 6 SHALOM --- are grandchildren: BrettSummer A. Endy, Chad2015 Irene S. Zeidman, 62, Wyomissing. M. Endy and Elizabeth K. Moyer; and How should pro-Israel voices tackle theShe war is survived of byideas her brother on Bruce college great-grandchildren, campuses? Carson N., Logan JNS.org An episodeImages at Columbia from University; a schoolF., husband administration of Geraldine meddled L. Zeidman with the C.,incident Ardyn involving N. and AvaHorowitz L. Endy sheds light on Recent ordeals for Jews on college historic hotbed of anti-Zionism, illustrates eventof Shillington. in a way that unfairly singled out the the activist’s strategy--- of choice. In a post- campuses include being probed on their the complexYemin dynamics atOrde play. pro-Israel group. The --- university imposed lectureShirley question-and-answer Robinson of B’nai session B’rith religious identity in student government ln April,Area Christians resident and United recent forcollege Israel, an “unprecedentedRobert Berger level, 54, ofReading. bureaucratic Apartments.hosted by the Survived University by her of Friendship California, hearings, seeing swastikas sprayed on America’sgraduate largest Jessica pro-Israel Flamholz organization, sent us scrutinyHe wasin an the effort former to intimidate,” spouse of saidLea CircleSan Diego, friends. Horowitz asked a UCSD fraternity houses and the presence of a with morethese picturesthan 2 frommillion her recentmembers, visit DavidBerger, Walker, Reading. CUFI’s He national is survived campus by Muslim student, Junanah --- Imad Albahri, student-initiated course accused of anti-­ plannedto a Yeminlecture Orde, at Columbia an Israeli concerning village coordinator.two daughters, Molly R. Berger, State to condemnLouis Malamud Hamas , and95, Hezbollahformerly Semitism. Pro-Israel voices are fighting the legacyfor childrenof Martin and Luther youth King supported Jr., and College,Walker told and JNS.org Bethany that theS. universityBerger, ofas Temple.genocidal He terrorist is survived organizations. by a son, back, but who is winning this war of ideas? his support forby lsrael. our Federation. CUFI says that the movedReading; the and lecture one brother,to a much Dr. Barry smaller M. Mitchel,Albarhi’s husband answer shocked of Laura the Malamud, audience, venueBerger, at husband the last of minute,Kathleen demanded A. Vieweg, ofand Las the Vegas;video of grandchildren their heated exchange Barry toBoston, know theMass. names of all off-campus husbandquickly went of Johna viral. Malamud,In the video, Deborah Albarhi All Around the Town______individuals expected--- to attend and Babbit-Malamudasks Horowitz “to and explain Sheri the Malamud; purported denied David the generalMoyer, 85,public Reading. entry. Some andconnection” great-grandchildren: between UCSD’s Jessy Babbit, Muslim By CongratulationsJoan G. Friedman to the following Badal, who has received the honor of organizations He is survived partnering by his wife, with Marjorie CUFI CarlyStudent Malmud Association and Ian chapter Malamud. and “jihadist highCongratulations school graduates to Korey who Blanck were being chosen as the Child Advocate of on the event proceeded to withdraw terrorist networks.” Horowitz doesn’t includedand to Edith in the Blanck Reading on Eagle the birth Berks of the Year for the State of Pennsylvania. their support in the aftermath of the answer directly. Instead, he counters by Besttheir newsection, granddaughter recognizing and the great- top *** administration’sPlan for your actions. Bar/Bat Mitzvahpressing Albarhi& W toedding refute the documentedGuests! Berksgranddaughter! County graduates: finalist in Best wishes to our Berks County Despite the obstacles, CUFI’s statement by the head of Hezbollah, math Brett Driben ***; and nominees- athletes competing in the 2010 Maccabi diversity outreach coordinator, Pastor Hassan Nasrallah, expressing his desire RyanMazel Egolf Tov toin thebusiness, Bluestone Gabriella Family: Games: Dumisani Washington, Shalomwas permitted forNewspaper Jews to gather in Israel so (Joan that “it will Friedman) MichelsonTo David and in communityMarianna on service their newand Emily & Jared Baksic, swimming to speak at Columbia during the April save us the trouble of going after them5” (2 col.) x 7” Abigaildaughter Waxlerand to grandparentsin math. Eric and Andrew Blickle, basketball 30 event. He began by refuting a worldwide.” Albarhi appears rattled. Marissa. *** Matthew Eisenberg, swimming statement issued by the Columbia Black She worries that the U.S. Department Questions? Mazel tov to the *** Boscov family on Hannah and Alexis Glassmire, Students Organization in which the group ofContact Homeland Jodi Security Gibble, will label Marketing her a Director the Congratulationsfollowing recent tograduations Charles andthis swimming condemned Aryeh, a pro­-Israel student terrorist if she sides with Hezbollah, but pastBrenda spring: Diamond Rachel on Boscov the engagement received Brandon Missan, soccer organizationREADING at Columbia, for using the denies that pro-PalestinianThe Highlands organizations at Wyomissing aof bachelor’stheir son Brett degree and to fromgrandfather Alvernia Al image 2801and Papermillwords ofRoad King to promote2000 are Cambridge aligned with doctrines Ave., ofWyomissing, hate. PA 1910 University;Diamond. Julia Boscov-Ellen earned ZionistWyomissing, views and Pennsylvania co-opting “the black ‘’For it or against it?” Horowitz persists, Congratulations to Rabbi Yosef 10-288-3405 a bachelor’s degree*** from Vassar liberation struggle for the purposes of demanding an answer regarding Albarhi’s andUntil Chana next Lipsker time: on Shalom! the birth of College,Mazel Tovand to LisaRosalind Boscov-Ellen Hyman and [Email all your simcha news to joan@ GROUP RATES AVAILABLE granddaughter Chaya Mushka to their genocide and oppression.” opinion on Hezbollah’s rhetoric. Finally, receivedher daughter, a master’s Attorney. degreeCathy from Hyman the friedman.net] daughter Zeldi and son-in-law Mendel. “When I see black students saying Albarhi leans toward the microphone University of Rochester. Call Alice for a Site Tour *** these things, I know there is a great deal and says decisively, “For it.” Albarhi *** of confusion,” Washington said. His lecture later denied supporting Nasrallah’s Mazel tov toKEEP Dorie UP Karp WITH on the THE COMMUNITY We love good news about members offered(610) a history 736-2082 of the civil rights✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com movement comments. birth ofVisit her grandson www.readingjewishcommunity.org Ari Joseph in of our community! Please share it by in the U.S., demonstrating how King and Indeed, similar YouTube clips June. Delighted parents are Michael emailing [email protected]. his closest followers were always aligned and social media debates reveal the and Rachel Karp of Cherry Hill, N.J. with Israel, both spiritually and politically. By intensity of student opinions regarding *** Until next time: Shalom! citing the shared experience of slavery as Israel, as well as the animosity directed epochs uniting Jews and blacks, recalling at Jewish students and professors. owner/operator of fhe former songs about Moses and highlighting Horowitz believes that one common Obituaries excerptsII fromhadhad New Testament and nono Old lsraeli publicidea!idea! relations strategy — the Charm Shop on North Sixth Street II hadhad nono idea!idea! Gertrud (Ledermann)ou’ve worked hardKatz to, accumulate your wealth. We hear this again and again from residents of The Highlands. in Reading for five years and the Testament psalms that figure prominently spotlighting of all the wonderful things 98, of Wyomissing. Trudy was YTrust it to someone whomanager will work of Specialeven harder Occasions to in in King’s speeches, Washington defended the nation• People has are accomplished so friendly. — falls born in Germany and immigrated the Berkshire Mall. She is survived Christian Zionism and King’s legacy as a short as• There’sa proper so defense much for of me the to Jewish do. to America,grow escaping your assets Germany and provide you with peace of mind by her son Sidney of Reading and pro-Israel voice. state. From his perspective, history is during the Holocaust. She was an • I love the independence and as you plan for the future. Fromher daughterfinancial planningElaine (Lempiner)and With CUFI’s event going on as what provides a legitimate justification avid bridge player and a member privacy at The Highlands. Jones of Reading. Other survivors planned, the pro-Israel side at Columbia for Israel to exist under its present of Reforminvestment Congregation management Oheb to custom credit solutions, • I don’t worry about my future. include her grandchildren, great- University managed to have its voice borders. He cites the original Palestinian Sholom. She is survived by her • Dining is like a fine restaurant. deposit products and more.grandchildren, Clermont Wealth her Strategies brother Philip and narrative heard — at least for that Liberation Organization slogan declaring nieces Marion Loewenstein of New of Canada and her sister Goldie day. Columbia, as it turns out, sits atop a fundamental• My kids intention are so gladto push I’m the here. Jews York and Florence– personal, Burstein. focused and highly confidential. Heisler of Florida. a recently published list of 10 American into the• Isea feel aslike clear-cut I’m at a evidenceresort. that ------college campuses where anti-Semitism is Israel does• This not was have a smart a partner and valuablefor peace. Ivan H. Gordon, of Reading. Stephen Craig Schneider of most rampant. The list was compiled by “You financialhave to call decision. it what it is, “Horowitz Ivan moved to Reading in 1957 JewHatredOnCampus. org, an initiative told JNS.org. “You cannot make peace Reading, son of Herbert Schneider • They do things first class. and wasFinancial employed Planning by Talbot Comprehensive Investment Management and the late Shirley Schneider. launched earlier this year whose mission with people who want to kill you. These Knitting Mills, he then owned and • I wish I’d moved here sooner. Custom Credit Solutions HeBank graduated Deposit & Conveniencefrom Yale Products University is to engage directly with students at are literally Nazis … planning another operated Gloray Knitting Mills • I love it here! in 1971, and after graduation he institutions of higher learning where Holocaust openly.” for overWealth 30 Preservationyears. Ivan & Transfer enjoyed Services Retirement Planning taught English in Paris. He later pro-Palestinian student groups are using Against the backdrop of that sense of playing golf, especially with his moved to New York City, where he school funding to launch aggressive urgency, Horowitz advocates a robust and close friends. He is survived by Come tour The Highlands. became a book editor. He taught anti-Israel and anti-Jewish propaganda unapologetic public relations campaign his daughter Radene Gordon- scuba diving and was an avid campaigns.Find The outnew firstwebsite hand publishes why iton is the the part best of pro-Israel place for advocates. Beck and her husband Hugh Beck hiker. In addition to his father a regular newsletter and provides a portal Horowitz conceded that the current and his grandson CBrandtLERMONT Beck.W EALTH STRATEGIES retirement living. he is survived by his two sisters, for reporting anti-Semitic incidents. debate over Israel on campus is a shallow Other survivors include his sister, ATNancy Nagle and her husband “Fifty-four percent of Jewish students on shouting match to which he contributes Barbara Gurdus and his significant Douglas of Ohio; and Penny collegeIf you’re campuses exploring feel optionsthey’ve witnessedand choices his own propaganda. He expressed his partner, Patricia Grove. Beitman of Harrisburg. Other anti-Semitism,”for your retirement said years, conservative be sure to call desire for an “informed scholarly debate,” --- survivors include his many nieces writerus for David a tour. Horowitz, You too the can founder be a part of of but said of pro-Palestinian advocates, “I Dorothy (Board) Lempiner, and nephews. JewHatredOnCampus.org.this wonderful lifestyle. “TheWe have problem every- don’t believe there is an honest way for 96, of Reading. Dorothy was the is that Jews aren’t fighting back.” them to argue their cause … [when their] 1.866.332.8393 thing from a studio apartment to gracious cottages.But how should We would they fight love back? to meet A 2010 you side wants to annihilate the other.” clermontwealth.com and answer your questions.

Securities and Insurance Products: Not FDIC-Insured • Not Insured by any Federal Government Agency Call for lunch and a tour today. No Financial Institution Guarantee • May lose value • Not a deposit 10-775-2300

EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ Page 7 SHALOM Summer 2015 Pennsylvania Legislature unanimously condemns BDS movement

On June 24, 2015, the Pennsylvania Jewish people’s right to self-determination The BDS movement’s goal is to With the passage of this resolution, General Assembly unanimously adopted in the State of Israel. The Jewish isolate Israel from the international Pennsylvania joins a growing nationwide a resolution that condemns the Boycott, Federation of Reading applauds and community, advocating a one state effort by state legislators to oppose the Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) sincerely thanks the General Assembly solution that results in the end of the BDS movement. New York, Tennessee, movement against Israel. for passing this historic commitment to Jewish state. Indiana and Illinois have recently passed The resolution, introduced Israel’s security and for the resolution’s The House vote reflected a similar resolutions. by state Reps. Matthew Baker recognition of the anti-Semitic origins of history of close friendship between The Pennsylvania House resolution (R-Bradford) and Mark Cohen the BDS movement against the Jewish Pennsylvania and Israel. In 1998, Gov. also recognized the “dramatic increase (D-Philadelphia) — denounced the state. Tom Ridge signed the Pennsylvania- in BDS movement campaign activities BDS movement as one of the main A similar resolution introduced Israel Research and Development on college campuses around the country vehicles for spreading anti-Semitism by state Senator Stewart Greenleaf Agreement, which resulted in has resulted in increased animosity and advocating the elimination of the (R-Montgomery) and co-sponsored increased business, governmental, and intimidation against Jewish Jewish state. by state Senator Judy Schwank educational, and cultural activities students, negatively impacting student The resolution recognized BDS (D-Berks), is moving through the involving the Keystone State and the programming related to the State of activities as a means of undermining the Senate. Jewish homeland. Israel. … ” Camera developed in Israel reads for visually impaired A high-tech camera developed by an using what is called “bone conduction aloud the words or object pointed to by Shashua, a well-known researcher who is Israeli team at Hebrew University cannot technology.” By simply pointing at the user. The system is designed to both a computer science professor at Hebrew only “see” – but even “read” – for the objects, the camera tell the wearer recognize and speak “text in the wild,” a University here. It is based on computer visually impaired. exactly who or what is in front of them. term used to describe newspaper articles vision algorithms that he has pioneered Reading aids for the visually It is a small camera worn in the style as well as bus numbers, and objects as with another faculty member, Shai Shalev- impaired and the blind had been of Google Glass, connected by a thin diverse as landmarks, traffic lights and Shwartz, and one of his former graduate cumbersome devices that recognize cable to a portable computer designed the faces of friends. students, Yonatan Wexler. text in restricted environments, or, to fit in the wearer’s pocket. However, it The system clips on to the wearer’s “What is remarkable is that the more recently, have been software is drastically different from Google Glass, glasses with a small magnet and uses a device learns from the user to recognize applications on smartphones that have which also offers the wearer a camera but bone-conduction speaker to offer clear a new product,” said Tomaso Poggio, limited capabilities. is designed for people with normal vision speech as it reads aloud the words or a computer scientist at M.I.T. who is a The OrCam camera device, developed and has limited visual recognition and object pointed to by the user. It is sold computer vision expert and with whom by Hebrew University professor Amnon local computing power. The system clips through the Orcam’s web site (www. Dr. Shashua studied as a graduate Shashua, is considered to be one of on to the wearer’s glasses with a small orcam.com)for $2,500, about the cost of student. “This is more complex than it Israel’s top advances in vision technology. magnet and uses a bone-conduction a midrange hearing aid. appears, and, as an expert, I find it really It attaches easily to a pair of glasses speaker to offer clear speech as it reads OrCam was founded by Amnon impressive.”

THE CONFLICT IN UKRAINE IS ONE OF THE WORST HUMANITARIAN CRISES IN THE WORLD TODAY. AND 350,000 CRISIS IN UKRAINIAN JEWS HAVE BEEN CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE. UKRAINE Aid from Federations’ partners means DURING TIMES OF CALM IN UKRAINE, the difference between life and death FEDERATION PARTNERS HELP 70,000 IMPOVERISHED CHILDREN AND ELDERLY. TODAY, SERVICE PROVIDERS ARE STRETCHED BEYOND CAPACITY AS THOUSANDS MORE UKRAINIAN JEWS HAVE BECOME DEPENDENT ON AID Deliver Emergency Aid to Homebound Secure Housing for Displaced Families and Displaced People Nearly 2,500 Jews have FROM FEDERATION PARTNERS. Nearly 9,000 Jewish children, been forced to flee embattled families and elderly remain cities, leaving behind homes TO DATE, FEDERATIONS HAVE RAISED trapped in conflict zones and jobs. Our partners provide safe or are displaced by fighting. Amid havens for them while they regain their NEARLY $5 MILLION IN EMERGENCY blockades, a depressed economy and footing and integrate into new living skyrocketing prices, our partners ensure circumstances. FUNDS TO HELP OUR PARTNER that they receive food, fuel, medicine Total Request: $144,000 AGENCIES CONTINUE PROVIDING VITAL and water. Total Request: $1,980,000 Provide a Waystation to New Lives AID. BUT URGENT NEEDS CONTINUE TO in Israel Address Special Emergency Needs GROW. Nearly 6,500 Jews have Emergency home repairs made aliyah in 2015—a THE JEWISH FEDERATIONS WILL due to damage sustained 41% increase over last during the conflict, along year’s record numbers. Our partners NOT TURN AWAY. WE WILL MAKE A with surgeries and special medications, have developed a center to serve as a are critical services our partners arrange home base for Ukrainian Jews on their DIFFERENCE. on behalf of those in exceptional need. way to Israel. There, they can access More than 1,000 people in the conflict housing, Hebrew courses, orientation zone receive medical support each month. to life in Israel and psychological assistance. Total Request: $198,000 Total Request: $60,000 Summer 2015 SHALOM Page 8 How we can fight the flow of finances to the BDS movement

By David Bedein net/) speaks for itself. It is no more tasked with creating a blacklist of companies with senior officials of the PA and return Thousands of young people are than a front for the PA. and institutions with trade ties to Israel, home to their campuses with bundles of employed on campuses around BDS has indeed fostered an and applies to all Arab countries, except cash in their pockets. the world, well-financed and well- image that makes it seem as if it is a for Egypt and Jordan, which signed peace How can you fight the flow of organized, in an unprecedented effort spontaneous grassroots movement. treaties with Israel. The PLO was expected finances to BDS? that challenges the very legitimacy of “BDS” sounds better to the modern to sign off from the Arab boycott after the Keep it simple. Ask each donor nation Israel on every possible academic and ear than “boycott” or “blacklist”. 1993 Oslo Accords. However, the PLO has that funds Palestinian humanitarian economic front. Yet it does not take much research to never stopped promoting the boycott, even services to make a reasonable They call their movement: BDS – discern that BDS is not listed anywhere though one of the explicit clauses of the requirement for transparency for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions. as an independent organization, nor does “declaration of principles” in Oslo was that funds that each nation allocates to the Sheldon Adelson and Haim Saban BDS even hold or own a bank account the PLO would no longer support the Arab PA or to UNRWA. The BDS spigot may called an emergency meeting of anywhere in the world. That is meant to League boycott of Israel. Why? The PLO dry up, very quickly. organizations concerned about BDS foster the grassroots image, but the money never ratified the “declaration of principles,” And then there is a diplomatic avenue. to answer two questions. involved has to come from somewhere. nor did the PLO ever cancel its charter to The PLO embassy in Washington, which • From where does the finance BDS, in fact, acts as a subsidiary destroy Israel, which was another major coordinates BDS activity in the U.S., was and organizational support for BDS of the PA, in coordination with the PLO clause in that accord. allowed to open in 1996 on the proviso emanate? Negotiations Department, working with I called the Arab League Boycott office that the PLO would cancel its charter • How can BDS be stopped? the official Arab League boycott of Israel at the Arab League office in Washington to destroy Israel. The PLO charter The answers may be easy to ascertain. in place since the Jewish state came and asked if the PLO supports the current remains unchanged. Most recently, official representatives of into being in 1948. (How many of you Arab League boycott. The Arab League This can now be invoked to choke the Palestinian Authority, the PA, engaged remember the days when American spokesman confirmed that the PLO off the PLO office in DC, the fulcrum in an international effort that almost booted Jews shunned Pepsi Cola because it indeed supports the boycott campaign of support for the BDS. Israel out of FIFA, the most prestigious had succumbed to the boycott pressure against Israeli products. Without any Last but not least, Israel’s strong anti- international sporting association, a step that and refused to sell to Israel?) prodding, the he went on to say that “We boycott law calls for strict punishment for could have denied any Israel sports team The Arab League requires all call that BDS now”- anyone or any organization engaging from competing in any sports competition, imports into Arab ports to produce BDS activists, mostly from campuses in advancing a boycott of Israel or anywhere in the world. a document indicating that products abroad, make visits to the PA in Ramallah, Israeli firms. The time may be right to The direct involvement of the PA were not manufactured in Israel and where cash is allocated for an untold encourage Israel to prosecute those in this massive BDS activity revealed do not contain components sourced number of BDS activists to profit in cash who actively promote the BDS Arab what had been known for years, which from the Jewish state. for their BDS activities. It is easy to boycott of Israel. is that the Palestinian Authority in The Arab League via a Central Boycott witness BDS hard at work in Jerusalem. David Bedein is the director of the Ramallah organized BDS in 2005. The Office (CBO), established in 1951, has BDS activists from abroad meet at the Israel Resource News Agency & The BDS website (www.bdsmovement. implemented this ever since. The CBO was American Colony Hotel on a regular basis Center.

The crisis speaks to the most fundamental reasons that Jewish Federations are so critical. We will not turn away. We are making a difference.

HELP BUILDING NEW HOMES

Masha Shumatskaya and her family embraced the revival of Jewish life in Donetsk after decades of Communist suppression. She attended Jewish school, learned Hebrew and thrived in a leadership program for young Jews. But amid ongoing conflict and chronic unemployment, she and her mother were forced to leave everything behind. Displaced and disoriented, they depended food packages and financial help for months to get back on their feet. Eventually, they were resettled in a new SUPPORTING NEW BEGINNINGS home safe from the fighting. Artillery shells exploded at the Lugansk cemetery during

CARING FOR THOSE UNDER FIRE the funeral for Konstantin Rybalko’s father. It wasn’t

When Sophia, a social welfare caretaker in surprising. Constant fighting had brought life in the city Donetsk, was visiting a 97-year-old client to a standstill. It shut down Konstantin’s dental practice. one morning, a massive explosion shook the Made it impossible to treat his father’s cancer. Amid the building. Sophia was shaken, but she quickly resumed her daily duties: bathing her client, danger, the Rybalko family fled to Kiev, where they were cooking breakfast, and after making sure connected to a program in Israel for immigrants in the she was OK, going to her next appointment. “I understand I can be killed or injured, but health professions. Konstantin and the family are now I try not to think about it,” she says. “Caring reestablishing themselves in Kiryat Yam. for these people gives me strength and courage.” Page 9 SHALOM Summer 2015 Retired British officer calls U.N. Gaza report flawed and dangerous In a recent article published in the humanitarian law and international to Judge Davis, said: “None of us is is sometimes wrong and, as with all New York Times, Col. Richard Kemp, human rights law.” Yet no evidence aware of any army that takes such armies, it has some bad soldiers. a retired British officer who served in is put forward to substantiate these extensive measures as did the IDF last Unnecessary deaths resulted, and Afghanistan, Iraq and the Balkans, accusations. He concludes that the summer to protect the lives of the civilian these should be investigated and the expressed his deep concern that the drafters of the report believe any civilian population.” individuals brought to trial if criminal words and actions of the United Nations death in war must be illegal. He noted that the “report culpability is suspected. and its recently released Human Rights Specifically, Col. Kemp refers to cases acknowledges that Israel took steps to But of most importance, Col. Kemp Council report on last summer’s conflict in which Israeli attacks killed civilians in warn of imminent attacks but suggests points out that the reason so many in Gaza, prepared by Judge Mary residential areas, Judge Davis says that more should have been done to minimize civilians died in Gaza last summer McGowan Davis, will only further in the absence of contrary information civilian casualties. Yet it offers no opinion was not Israeli tactics or policy. It was violence and the loss of life, rather than available to her commission, there are about what additional measures Israel Hamas’s strategy. Hamas deliberately contribute to a peaceful resolution. strong indications that the attacks were could have taken. It even criticizes Israel positioned its fighters and munitions in The report starts by attributing disproportionate, and therefore war for using harmless explosive devices civilian areas, knowing that Israel would responsibility for the conflict to Israel’s crimes. But all we get is speculation and — the “knock on the roof” — as a final have no choice but to attack them and “protracted occupation of the West Bank the presumption of guilt. warning to evacuate targeted buildings, that civilian casualties would result. and the Gaza Strip,” as well as the He goes on to state that the report is suggesting that it created confusion. Unable to inflict existential harm on blockade of Gaza, despite the fact that characterized by a lack of understanding No other country uses roof-knocks, a Israel by military means, Hamas sought Israel withdrew from Gaza 10 years ago. of warfare. That is hardly surprising. munition developed by Israel as part to cause large numbers of casualties In 2007 it imposed a selective blockade Judge Davis admitted, when he of a series of IDF warning procedures, among its own people in order to only in response to attacks by Hamas testified before her in February, that including text messages, phone calls bring international condemnation and and the import of munitions and military the commission, though investigating a and leaflet drops, that are known to have unbearable diplomatic pressure against materiel from Iran. The conflict last war, had no military expertise. The lack saved many Palestinian lives.” Israel. summer, which began with a dramatic of such expertise could explain why Col. Kemp pointed out the hypocrisy He goes on to argue that Judge escalation in rocket attacks targeting no attempt was been made to judge and bias of the UN report. Judge Davis Davis’s report is rife with contradictions. Israeli civilians, was a continuation of Israeli military operations against the suggests that the IDF’s use of air, tank “She acknowledges that Israeli military Hamas’s war of aggression. practices of other armies. Without such and artillery fire in populated areas may precautions saved lives, yet without Although the report suggests Hamas international benchmarks, the report’s constitute a war crime and recommends foundation accuses “decision makers may have been guilty of war crimes, findings are meaningless. further international legal restrictions at the highest levels of the government it still legitimizes Hamas’s rocket and Col. Kemp believes that he on their use. Yet these same systems of Israel” of a policy of deliberately tunnel attacks and even sympathizes commission should have listened to were used extensively by American and killing civilians. Incredibly, she “regrets” with the geographical challenges in Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of British forces in similar circumstances that her commission was unable to launching rockets at Israeli civilians: the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, who said in Iraq and Afghanistan. They are often verify the use of civilian buildings “Gaza’s small size and its population last November that the IDF had taken vital in saving the lives of our own by “Palestinian armed groups,” yet density make it particularly difficult for extraordinary measures to try to limit soldiers, and their curtailment would elsewhere acknowledges Hamas’s armed groups always to comply” with civilian casualties. Or to a group of jeopardize military effectiveness while widespread use of protected locations, the requirement not to launch attacks 11 senior military officers from seven handing an advantage to our enemies. including UN schools. from civilian areas. nations, including the United States, He also noted that the IDF, like all Most worrying, Judge Davis claims But Col. Kemp sees no such Germany, Spain and Australia, who armed forces, is not perfect and that to be fully aware of the need for Israel sympathy for Israel. Judge Davis also investigated the Gaza conflict commanders and soldiers undoubtedly to address its security concerns while accuses the Israel Defense Forces recently. Kemp was a member of that made mistakes in the heat of battle. demanding that it “lift, immediately and of “serious violations of international group, and its report, made available Weapons malfunction, intelligence unconditionally, the blockade on Gaza.” Jewish volunteers aim to empower West Bank Palestinians

UMM EL-KHEIR, West Bank plant gardens and pave a road in running water and paved roads, and the group to see a new part of (JTA) – They dig their fingers into the Palestinian villages of the South one of its only permanent structures the West Bank, while others were the dirt, their knees bearing into Hebron Hills. is a small playground. Palestinian attracted to the physicality of the the ground as they embed sprigs Early Zionists insisted that flags flutter from many tents. work. of thyme in identical rows. The sun working the land could lead to self- After working Friday, the One participant, Ilona Gerbakher, beats down on the small plot, and determination in the land of Israel, and volunteers held a Shabbat service 27, said the mission connected her the work can be tedious, but these they inspired waves ofkibbutzniks to and had a communal meal with the to a community of left-wing Jews in volunteers – most of them American, establish farming communes. Palestinian residents of Susiya. Jerusalem. most of them Jewish – plant “with a Generations of tourists have Many slept over and spent the next “I’m glad that Israel exists,” said purpose.” made a point of planting a tree in one day volunteering and attending Gerbakher, a Jewish-American They had met early on a Friday of the country’s national forests or workshops on local Palestinian who is completing a doctorate in morning in Jerusalem and set off sponsoring one through the Jewish crafts such as honey-making and comparative Jewish and Islamic on an hourlong bus ride through the National Fund’s blue tin charity embroidery. studies at Columbia University. “I’m terraced, rocky hills south of the city. boxes. The conflict and its consequences blessed that this country is here Upon arriving at their destination, Adopting that ethos to support dominated the conversation on and that I get to be a part of it. But a Palestinian village about 20 Palestinians drew criticism from Friday, but some volunteers hadn’t I also firmly believe in the right of miles south of Hebron, residents Shmaaya Asolin, the spokesman come to choose a side. Some joined Palestine to exist.” welcomed them with coffee, tea and for Israeli settlements in the South a short account of the community’s Hebron Hills. He called volunteers history that traced decades of who work in the Palestinian villages war and resettlement. Then the “naive” and “anarchists,” and said volunteers got to work. Palestinians use these groups to Jews have long sought provoke violence from the settlers. Thank empowerment through working the “They make up fake stories and land, but these volunteers did their stain the reputation of settlers,” he You! work in Palestinian villages rather said. “The camera is the weapon. than in Israeli. Their mission was They want to draw people out.” one that both Palestinians and The South Hebron Hills, which Jewish-Israelis have pursued for are under full Israeli civil and military decades: to create “facts on the control, have become a flashpoint ground,” entrenching a community’s of conflict in the West Bank. presence by deepening its footprint. Palestinians there complain of lack “We wanted to bring a large group of access to basic resources like of people to be a presence and water and protest Israeli restrictions do some actual physical work that on building permanent structures in will be helpful for the community,” their villages. said Daniel Roth, who was born in “I don’t know where the law or the Toronto and immigrated three and justice is in this situation,” Nasser Friends, your attendance and support of our clarinet recital at WCR a half years ago to Israel. “We’re Nawajah, a resident of the nearby connecting on this very hands-on, Palestinian village of Susiya, told Center for the Arts in May was wonderful. The event was a huge life-bringing level.” the volunteers through a translator. success. We had good music, an overflow, very enthusiastic Nearly 100 volunteers on the trip, “Here, in this place, the law that’s audience and raised significant funds for Friends of Chamber most of them in their 20s, were part used is might makes right.” Music, an organization near and dear to me. I am blessed to live of the Israel-based organization Susiya, home to some 350 among you. All That’s Left, a nod to the left- villagers, is a collection of tents on wing politics of its members, who a rocky hill overlooking an Israeli Neil oppose Israel’s occupation of the settlement also called Susiya. The Neil A. Hoffman, M.D. West Bank. They recently helped village lacks an electrical grid, Summer 2015 SHALOM Page 10 May 2010 Shalom Page 10 Federation Honorial - Memorial Card Information HonorialsHonorials and and Memorials Memorials ContributionsContributions may may be be made made to to the the following following Funds: Funds: Please mail your payment with complete information to the Jewish FederationUJA-Federation Jewish Campaign Community Campaign $10 $10 Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 or bring to the Jewish Jewish Family Service $10 Jewish Family Service $10 Cultural Center, 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125, Wyomissing. You may set up Leo Camp Lecture Fund $10 a “savings account” for the purpose of sending cards. Please contact the JFSLeo FoodCamp Bank Lecture Fund $10 $25 Jewish Federation at 610-921-0624 for further information. JFS TaxiFood Transportation Bank Program $25 $20 Contributions as of July 3 HolocaustJFS Taxi Transportation Library & Resource Program Center $20 $18 Contributions as of April 16 Holocaust Library & Resource Center $18 Holocaust Library & Resource Center Doris Levin Fund $10 In honor of: Doris Levin Fund $10 UJA-Federation Campaign Bat Mitzvah of Zena and Harvey Hafetz’s granddaughter – Debbie Goodman and Sid and Esther Bratt’s new apartment – Dr. Sandra K. Rowan, In honor of: John Moyer, Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer SarahVic Hammel’s Simon’s special engagement birthday – Vic– Rosalye and Dena Yashek, Hammel Barbara Nazimov Michael Clymin (Ellen Abramson’s father) – Susan and Richard D’Angelo Bar Mitzvah of Fran Bendheim and Frank Wolf’s grandson – Rob and Yvonne AlmaTrudy andKatz Ed– Rosalye Lakin’s Yashek, new home Hilde – GernsheimerVic and Dena Hammel, Mildred & Ivan Frank Mehringer – Edith Mendelsohn Oppenheimer Gordon In memory of: Birth of Sid and Esther Bratt’s new great-grandson – Jackye and Jim Barrer, Rob Sam Goodman’s engagement – Alma and Ed Lakin Trudy Katz – Ruth Isenberg and Yvonne Oppenheimer Alyse Corbin’s marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin Ivan Gordon – Dr. Sandra K. Rowan DorisBirth Levinof Evelyn Fund and Jay Lipschutz’s new grandson – Jackye and Jim Barrer Sue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer In memoryVic Hammel’s of: special birthday – Debbie Goodman and John Moyer, Dena and Vic Birth of Selma Cutler’s great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr. Walter Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike Hammel MoyerJewish Family Service Robinson In honorBirth of of: Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Debbie Goodman and Shoshana Tannenbaum – Carole and Mike Robinson In memory of: JohnLauren Moyer Schuchart’s graduation from the Jewish Theological Seminary – Betsy Fran Suknow – Andy and Corinne Wernick, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Cheryl and and Al Katz Holocaust Library and Resource Center Birth of Dorie Karp’s new grandson – Ruth Isenberg Eric Farber,Terri Hafetz, Susan and Mel Blum Get well: In memoryIvan Gordon of: – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer; Cheryl and Eric Farber; Hilde HaroldRob and Leifer Yvonne – Rob Oppenheimer’s and Yvonne Oppenheimerson Richard’s marriage – Berna Sherman and Shoshana Tannenbaum – Ken and Mary Holt, George and Sue Viener, Sue Gernsheimer; Alison and Larry Rotenberg; Carol and Bernie Gerber; Robin and family, Barbara Nazimov Schlanger, Gordon and Carol Perlmutter, Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John Jess Drezner; Davida Fromm, Hannah and Jeremy EvelynSid and Thompson Esther Bratt’s Nursery new home School – Louise Fund Zeidman Deegan, Naum and Lyudmila Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and Sylvia Wenger’s granddaughter’s marriage – Louise Zeidman In memory of: IsraelMarvin Segal,Now Vic and Dena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & Shoshana Tannenbaum – Beth and Bob Caster InIvan honor Gordon, of: Carrie & Stephen Latman, Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey In memory of: Schneider,Vic Hammel’s Norman special & Rita birthday Wilikofsky, – Sue Audrey and Herb Williams, Wachs Alan and Esther Strauss, JewishFran Suknow Family – CarrieService and Stephen Latman, Al and Betsy Katz Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, In honorIvan Gordon of: – Debbie Goodman and John Moyer, Barbara Nazimov, Berna JohnPJ Library Castrege and family, Michael Geraci, Maxine & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, ShermanBirth of and Carol family, and GordonLouise Zeidman Perlmutter’s new grandson – Sue and George Viener, LauraIn memory Higgins of: Betsy and Al Katz Fran Suknow – Sue and George Viener JFSBat Food Mitzvah Pantry of Fran Mendelsohn’s granddaughter – Rosalye Yashek Trudy Katz – Sue and George Viener In honor of: FriendshipEdna Pollak Circle – Sue and George Viener In memoryVic Hammel’s of: special birthday – Jeff and Jan Gernsheimer, Jack and Nancy Get well: GernsheimerShoshana Tannenbaum – Jill and Gladys Skaist FriendshipHarold Leifer Circle – Glenn and Gaye Corbin In memory of: Federation Jewish Community Campaign Dorothy Lempiner – Herb Schneider HolocaustIn honor of: education spreading in Berks County Becca Cantor’s High School Graduation – The Egolf Family Evelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund Joe Coopersmith’s High School Graduation – The Egolf Family Continued from Page 5 also that the students are genuinely In honorOn a of:wider note, there have justice and Holocaust remembrance today. Brett Driben’s High School Graduation – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer, Al and silence is not the reason why survivors interested in hearing their stories. I know beenBirth many of Evelyn recent and developments Jay Lipschutz’s in new I amgrandson heartened – Al to and hear Betsy that three Katz additional Betsy Katz, The Egolf Family are invited in. Instead, that factor is my students were genuinely interested in HolocaustGabrielle education Levine’s Batin BerksMitzvah County – Beth andschools Bob Casterin Berks County will be offering Ryan Egolf’s High School Graduation – Beth, Scott, Ben and Becca Cantor present because of the immense respect hearing Hilde’s story and many still talk andBecca the surroundingCantor’s High areas.School GraduationWithin these – Beth courses and Bob for theirCaster students. Alexis Glassmire’s High School Graduation – The Egolf Family students have for these individuals and about it now, several weeks later. theJoe past Coopersmith’s month I have High met School with Graduationtwo Though – Beth andthe Bobfourth Caster quarter of the Mark Goldberg’s High School Graduation – The Egolf Family, Beth, Scott, Ben and individualsBrett Driben’s who High are Schoolin the Graduationprocess –school Beth andyear Bob has Caster begun, there are still Becca Cantor of developingRyan Egolf’s a High Holocaust School Graduationcourse to –many Beth and additional Bob Caster opportunities that Derian Haas’ High School Graduation – The Egolf Family  be Markoffered Goldberg’s at their Highlocal Schoolhigh school. Graduation remain. – Beth I just and spoke Bob Caster to an undergraduate Gabriella Michelson’s High School Graduation – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer, OneDerian gentleman Haas’ Highwas School from LancasterGraduation –ethics Beth and class Bob Casterat Penn State Berks The Egolf Family  County.Gabriella The Michelson’sother, Gerry High Evans, School is Graduationa regarding – Beth the ethical/moral and Bob Caster implications Marissa Missan’s High School Graduation – The Egolf Family teacherAlexa atSaidman’s Hamburg High High School School. Graduation I of the– Beth Holocaust. and Bob ICaster found the students Abigail Waxler’s High School Graduation – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer, The haveAbigail been Waxler’s in contact High with School two Graduation other to –be Beth receptive and Bob andCaster inquisitive and Egolf Family  localMichele teachers, Abramson’s Pete Ruckelshaus College Graduation at have – Beth been and asked Bob Caster to deliver a similar Michele Abramson’s College Graduation – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer, Jackye  TwinDeborah Valley andFlamholz’s Jim Konecke College at GraduationWilson program – Beth andin the Bob classes Caster that the same and Jim Barrer HighLeah School. Mintz’s Pete Graduation has resurrected from Law Schoola professor – Beth alsoand teachesBob Caster at Reading Area Rachel Boscov’s graduation from Alvernia – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer courseSamantha on Holocaust Weisberg’s Literature College at Graduation Twin Community – Beth and College. Bob Caster Deborah Flamholz’s College Graduation – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer  Valley, and its first offering is during As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, Jake Herman’s Graduation from Law School – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer theIn memory current of:fourth quarter. He is very daughter of the late local Holocaust Leah Mintz’s Graduation from Law School – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer excitedIvan Gordonabout offering – Beth and this Bob course Caster to survivor Richard Yashek, is speaking at Jeremy Lakin’s College Graduation – Jackye and Jim Barrer  his students and has even lined up Twin Valley, Hamburg and Fleetwood.  several guest speakers including Rabbi Right now Albright College is hosting Organizations respond to United ChurchBrian Michelson, of KimChrist Yashek and divestmentHilde an exhibit titled, “Storiesdecision Among Us: Gernsheimer. Washington State Connections to the The Jewish Council for Public may also harm partnerships that evidenceJim Konecke a lack isof teachingrecognition at Wilsonof the Holocaust,The Israel Lessons Action in Genocide.”Network (IAN) The Affairs and the Israel Action Network are necessary to advance the stepsCentral Israel Junior takes High butto protectwill be moving religious up isexhibit a strategic includes initiativethe stories of five The HolocaustJewish issued the following statement in cause of justice in the Middle East minoritiesto Wilson Highin Israel School and at the the Palestinian beginning Federationssurvivors and ofone North liberator America, and has in response to the United Church of and beyond. We are saddened that Territories.of next school Israel year. is Hethe will only be country offering ina partnershipreceived good with reviews. the Jewish It is definitelyCouncil Christ’s General Synod approval June the majority of delegates to this thecourse region on Naziwith Germany.a growing His indigenous students forworth Public a visit! AffairsIt will be at(JCPA), Albright’s created Gingrich 30 of a “deeply skewed” resolution on convention aligned with a sliver Christianwill be studying population. this period of German toLibrary counter through the May assault 10. on Israel’s Israeli-Palestinian conflict that calls of the Jewish community who too historyDespite in depth, this includingdistressing a study decision, of the legitimacy and proactively*** lead the for boycott and divestment. often view the world through an werise are of anti-Semitism, confident that the many initial Christians period of conversationJennifer Goss about teaches the social Jewish, studies “The United Church of Christ anti-Israel prism. There should andthe Holocaust Jews in communitiesand the Final Solution. across Thethe democraticin the Fleetwood state ofSchool Israel. District and (UCC) decision to recommend be no misunderstanding that such countrylatter part will of the reject course this will divisive look at movepost-war in specializesJCPA, the in Holocaustpublic affairs education. arm of the divestment from companies that sell engagement does not represent favor of a more constructive path that organized Jewish community, serves defense equipment to Israel is deeply authentic dialogue with the Jewish supports peace and reconciliation as the national coordinating and disturbing. Sadly, however, we are community. We take note that most throughPlan fora negotiated your Bar/Bat two-state Mitzvah advisory & body W foredding the 16 national Guests! and not surprised. In recent years, the members of the UCC were unaware solution, and rejects delegitimization 125 local agencies comprising the UCC has been part of a chorus of of the divestment vote and that and divestment. field of Jewish community relations. churches that pin sole responsibility many voices at the Synod called for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on for further and broader study. We Jewish Family Service Food Pantry Collection just one side ­— Israel. While neither are heartened that many UCC side is blameless in the conflict, colleagues at the local level remain a position that assigns exclusive in earnest conversation with Jewish We are serving more families accountability for the continuation colleagues in order to develop READING each month! Please bring of the conflict to the Jewish state is a nuanced understanding of the donations of canned tuna, soup, 2801 Papermill Road deeply skewed and raises troubling Israeli-Palestinian conflict. fruits and vegetables to questions. This UCC General Assembly Synod Wyomissing, Pennsylvania Kesher Zion or the JCC. The newly elected general decision occurs in the face of relative GROUP RATES AVAILABLE minister and president of the UCC silence to the humanitarian catastrophe Thank you! correctly acknowledged that the currently facing Christians and other Call Alice for a Site Tour recently taken divestment action minorities in many other Middle East We also need plastic and paper grocery bags! not only will cause deep pain but countries as well. The resolutions (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com