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 PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 Jewishwww.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Federation of Reading Non-Profit OrganizationReading, PA JewishChange Cultural Service Center Requested U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, 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. Volume 40 No. 3 MARCh 2010 Adar-Nisan 5770

Jewish Federation of Reading Non-Profit Organization JewishINSIDE Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 1100 Berkshire Boulevard Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgShalom Reading, PA ChangeThe J Serviceournal Requested ofShalom the Reading JewishIt’s been Community an Publishedincredible as a community year. service Hope by you’ve the Jewish beenFederation here! of Reading, Pa. VTTheolumehe JJournalournal 40 ofof the No. Reading 5It is hardJewish to believe Community.Community that a year Published Published has goneMAY as as by a asince 2010community community we relocated service service to the by by Jewish the the Jewish Jewish Cultural Federation Federation CenterIyar-Sivan at of1100 of Reading, Reading, Berkshire 5770 Pa. Pa. Boulevard in Wyomissing. If you haven’t been here, we hope to see you in the very near future. For those of you who VolumeVolumeINSIDE 43, 40 No. No. 5 5 use the Center regularly or from MAY ‘timeMAY to 2013 time’, 2010 we always appreciate your visits and encourage Iyar-SivanIYAR-SIVAN your feedback. 5770 5773 And, thank you all for your support throughout the year! ReflectionsINSIDE on Paul D. Cohn, President,Educator Jewish Federation delivers of Reading Cindypowerful Balchunas, Chair, message Jewish Cultural Center Committee Passover Tammy K. Mitgang,on humanity Executive Director, Jewish and Federation the ofHolocaust Reading/Jewish Cultural Center Page 12 By Becca Gregg More on Dr. Korazim’s visit. Page 3 ShalomThereCourtesy of Reading is Eagleno free lunch — or is there? The Journal of the Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by the Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa. When a Tennessee middle school Holocaust land was black and white. And little By Paul D. Cohn County Jews have gone to the JCC’s preschool to look at all expenditures, making sure that we embarked on an ambitious Holocaust project girls back there never had colored ribbons in Free Jewish Federation president for its excellent learning curriculum.Many times are being good stewards of your contributions. Volume 40 No.in 1998, 3 America took interest. MARCtheir hair.h And 2010 the sky was never blue over Adar-Nisan 5770 booksHappy for EllenThe Azrael, 2010 Larry JewishRotenberg and Hilde Gernsheimerthe preschool is a gateway for Jewish families in We are making progress in all areas of your Program at There were national news articles. Television Warsaw. And was there no green grass over homecomingkids available for Federation Jewish AnnualPhoto by Jeremy Drey: CourtesyBerks ofCounty, Reading where Eagle they can meet and make Federation. We are now in a position to focus FreeAlvernia Jewish to segments. A documentary. And eventually, the Czech Republic? Of course there was.” renownedthrough local Campaign is under way. friends with other Jewish families. In addition, on those programs and services that our booksfocusINSIDE foron Elleneven Azrael, a nonprofit Larry Rotenbergorganization and inspired Hilde Gernsheimer by the Those black-and-white photos, she said, Federation This campaign is the since the school is open to everyone, it provides community wants and needs. kidspeace authoravailable film. The lofty goal of thePhoto students? by Jeremy To Drey:collect Courtesy have of resulted Reading in Eagle a loss of character for the Federation’sMaking major sure source we never1100a diversity Berkshire forget experience at an early Boulevard age. However the bottom line is that we are throughPage 3 6 million paper clips to honor the lives of Jews people shown in them. Page 2 of funding, and it helps • Cultural Programs and Services — The asking for, and need your help. And guess FederationPage 4 killedBy Paul by theD. CohnNazi regime and its collaboratorsand political context,“Do not nothing be satisfied can with just the numbers,” support the many important Federation provides many interesting and what? People do need a free meal every so MakingfromFederation 1939 to Chairman 1945.It’s sure been we anmask neverincredible the darkestshe urged forgetside again.of human year. “Try to lookHope for the you’ve real been here! programs and services that requested programs and services.Lectures, often. Seniors do enjoy the company and Page 3 AccordingAs I write to Holocaust expert Dr.behavior.Could Rachel person one behindview our the ability picture.” Gratz event help JewsIt is in hard our community to believe and that abroad. aand year Mostpolitical has gone films,context, bydiscussion nothingsince we groups,can relocated and holiday to the events Jewish are Culturalfriendship Center that our at services 1100 Berkshire provide. Parents Federations ByKorazim,this Paul column D. though, Cohn it the very thing that madeand responsibility the The to “never remembrance, forget” as organized jointly Guitaristshows Federationof youBoulevard are notChairman new in Wyomissing. to the Campaign, Ifmask youand haven’tarethe darkestjust been a fewside examples.here, of human we hopeIn addition, to see the you Federation in the veryare nearrelieved future. as they For drop those their of youpreschooler who helping projectis the day unique after was the one that wouldan obligation?make by I Alverniathink so. No and matter the Jewish Federation of to perform accustomedAs I write to why this is such an behavior.Couldimportant allocates one view funds our abilityto local synagogues to help off at our school, knowing that their child is in program’sin Haiti ityour irreverent. Federationuse the Center regularly orhow from hard ‘time it Reading, is toto recall time’, concluded the we horrific always with appreciate a candle-lighting your visits and encourage your feedback. at annual thispart columnof your Federation.it Others mayand be responsibility new with totheir “never programs. forget” as We offer programs and excellent hands. Jews in Israel and around the Guitariststrengths sponsored“Human beingsour are not identical paperclips,”eventsAnd, ofthank theceremony Holocaust, you all forledthose yourby who Rabbi support Brian throughout Michelson the year! meetingPage 4 isto theour daycommunity. after Here are a few pointsan obligation? that I services I think so. that No bring matter our community together. world are grateful for the funding we supply. to perform KorazimHolocaust told a packed lecture hall atsurvived, Alvernia andof the Reform generations Congregation that Oheb Sholom in Page 5 yourwould Federation like you to consider: how hard it is to• recallIsrael the and horrific Jews around the world Making a pledge to the Campaign is more Reflectionsat Pageannual 2 on UniversityRemembrancePaul D. on Cohn, Sunday. President, “It defeated Jewish thefollowed, whole Federation haveWyomissing. to ofremember Reading and Cindy Balchunas, Chair, Jewish Cultural Center Committee sponsored• Jewish our Family Services — eventsJFS now of the —Holocaust, Federation those has who a long and rich history of than the money, at least it should be. It should Passovermeeting purpose.”Day, which Tammy K. Mitgang,continue Executive to put“We Director,the haveevents comeJewish of the to Federationremember those of Reading/Jewish who Cultural Center Holocaustserves all age groups and is dedicatedsurvived, to and helping the generations Israel. Although that our world is rapidly be your way of saying that you believe in and Foes of Israel wasKorazim held wasat the keynote speakerHolocaust for the intocannot modern-day be forgotten,” context. said Tammy Mitgang, Remembrancemaintaining and strengthening thefollowed, quality havechanging, to remember Israel isand still a young country, and support our local Jewish community. 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It should be your way nation’s HolocaustKesher Zion Remembrance Synagogue Day. for She Jewsstressed and non-Jewswhat was alike. done and what was not done. We Alvernia University. JewishJews delis Kesheropen to bothZion the Jewish and non-JewishSurvivors needcoexistence. to continue Givento talk its challenges, Jews of saying that you have resources to help others Celebratinglegitimacy thehostingBy “dangerPaul D.this Cohnof event,remembrance as well through as nothingJews around haveCounty the come world Jews continueto have ask gone questions to to the JCC’sthat cannot preschool be to look at all expenditures, making sure that we Synagogue.communities, helpingI want all to to thank meet theirabout dietary their experiencesthroughout and the educate world help Israel with funding Photowho byare Jeremy less fortunate, Drey: Courtesy and at of times Reading destitute. Eagle with EthiopianPage 10 4 butthankFederation numbers.” Dr. Minnapresident Bromberg for be victims of anti-Semitism.answered,for its excellent but In addition, thatlearning cannot curriculum.Many be left unasked.” times BELOW:are being Part good of stewards the large of crowd your contributions.at the event. Page 7 Kesherneeds. DidZion you Synagogue know JFS for coordinates Jews and non-Jewsand resources alike. so she can remain strong and It should be your way to say you care. ProgramJews at her“ReducingThe spiritual 2010 leadership. them Jewish to numbers Tammy is whatIsrael facesthe newthe and preschool existing enemies.is a gateway for Jewish families in We are making progress in all areas of your hostingtransportation this event, for the elderlyas well and as infirmed Jews and around vibrant. the world Our continue funding to also helps Jews in other For everyone who has already pledged, I Alvernia to NazisMitgangFederation had diddone Jewish an and excellent Annual wanted tojob do,” However,she said withBerks each County,passing yearwhere we they can meet and make Federation. We are now in a position to focus thankprovides Dr. counseling Minna Bromberg to members for of ourbe Jewishvictims of anti-Semitism.countries who In addition, want to move to Israel, or who say “thank you.” For those of you who are still focusPage 4on ofCampaign the facilitating Holocaust is under thevictims. afternoon’s way. “Giving them are (Nazis) losing our friendsHolocaust with survivors other Jewishand families. In addition, on those programs and services that our Holocaust hercommunity? spiritual leadership.In addition, Tammy JFS provides Israel faces an newhave and seriousexisting enemies. needs in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. peace asession.This posthumous campaign My thanks victory? alsois Why?”the go to Dan their families, sincealong the with school the valuable is open to everyone, it provides community wants and needs. education Mitgangoutreach programdid an andexcellent acts as ajob clearinghouse However, with eachAs passingI mentioned year weabove, the funds raised by Please pledge now. As you have previously Jewish Family Tannenbaum,Federation’sKorazim, major ancoordinator Israel-based source of the educationstories and memoriesa diversity they experience have to at an early age. However the bottom line is that we are spreading in offor facilitatingother agencies the inafternoon’s our area. As economicare losing our Holocaustthe Campaign survivors represent and the largest portion of heard me say, Jews have a rich tradition of HolocaustServicePage 2 consultant,Holocaustof funding, Libraryurged and theitand helps more Resource than 100pass people to future generations.• Cultural Programs Venues and Services — The asking for, and need your help. And guess Berks session.conditions My have thanks worsened, also go to JFS Dan has their seen families, an thealong Federation’s with the valuable budget. Last year you helped leading by example. All of us, no matter how education inCenter,support Alvernia’s athe partnership many Bernadine important between Hall to the humanize such asthe the UnitedFederation States providesMemorial many interesting and what? People do need a free meal every so Page 8 Tannenbaum,increase in people coordinator looking offor thehelp. stories and memoriescontribute they $600,000 have to to the Campaign. A few large or small the contribution, have a chance spreadingPage 7 in victimsFederationprograms - to andthink and services of Albright them asthat College. more than aHolocaust number Museum,requested the programsHolocaust and services.Lectures, often. Seniors do enjoy the company and Holocaust• Lakin Library Early Educationand Resource Center pass – JCC’s to future years generations. ago, our Venues Campaign was overEsther $1 Bratt million. to becomeLarry Rotenberg leaders. with It allgrandchildren adds up. All Talya of us and can Eli FederationsBerks orhelp aI black-and-whiteJewsalso inwant our communityto thankphoto, andHildeand ratherabroad. Center of Mostwho at Albright,films, thediscussion Anne Frank groups, and holiday events are friendship that our services provide. Parents Center,preschool a partnership and kindergarten between have the a longsuch history as the UnitedSo you States can seeMemorial that our annual campaign is change the world for the better. helping theyGernsheimer,of you were are and not the newEllen stories to Azraelthe that Campaign, theyand leftHouse andbehind. are in Amsterdam,just a few examples.and the Yad In addition, the Federation are relieved as they drop their preschooler Page 7 Federationof providing and quality Albright education College. in a Holocaustnurturing, Museum,more important the Holocaust than ever. The Federation has Free lunch…I don’t think so. It is worth its in Haiti Larryaccustomed“Can Rotenberg we rememberto why for thissharing 6is million such their an stories? importantVashem Of Holocaust allocates memorial funds in toIsrael local synagoguesEsther Bratt to help offLarry at our Rotenberg school, with knowing grandchildren that their Talya child and is Eli in positiveI also environment. want to thankMany generations Hilde Center of Berks at Albright,taken thesteps Anne to help Frank reduce our expenses and weight in gold. coursepersonalpart of yournot,” stories. Federation.she Each said. story “But Others had can its mayyou serve dobe onenew as valuablewith their educational programs. and We offer programs and excellent hands. Jews in Israel and around the Gernsheimer, Ellen Azrael and House in Amsterdam, and the Yad JewishPage Family 4 more,ownto our sense community.and ofthen sadness, next Here year fear are andmaybe a few (at pointsonehistorical more, that repositories.I services that bring our community together. world are grateful for the funding we supply. Larry Rotenberg for sharing their Vashem Holocaust memorial in Israel 2013Service totals andtimes)would listen likerenewed moreyou to hopepatiently consider: and toresolve. the story?” All of us have• Israela responsibility and Jews to around the world Making a pledge to the Campaign is more personal stories. Each story had its serve as valuable educational and Still,Korazim’s• itJewish was difficult lectureFamily to capped listenServices to a three-dayand — JFS“never visitnow forget” — and Federation to stand up has for our a long and rich history of than the money, at least it should be. It should as of April 19 own sense of sadness, fear and (at historical repositories. FoesJewishPage of Family Israel 6 tocomprehendserves Alvernia, all whichage their groups stories.she began andIf anyone April is dedicated 5 byrights leading and to beliefshelping as Jews. Israel. We Although must our world is rapidly be your way of saying that you believe in and Jewish Community times) renewed hope and resolve. All of us have a responsibility to startService campaign classeshasmaintaining any designed doubt and about tostrengthening help the school Jewish teachers thecontinue quality and to educatechanging, those Israel who is dostill a young country, and support our local Jewish community. It should Still, it was difficult to listen to and “never forget” and to stand up for our toCampaign question professorspeople’sof individual will develop toand survive, meaningfulfamily one life only lessonsin thenot Jewish on believe the inunfortunately, the Holocaust orsome who groups and countries be your way of saying that you want to help comprehend their stories. If anyone rights and beliefs as Jews. We must nation’sPage 6 Holocaust.needscommunity. to study JFS the runs Holocaust. a monthly foodattempt pantry to twist do the not truth recognize of what actually Israel’s right to peaceful Jews around the world. It should be your way $272,519 has any doubt about the Jewish continue to educate those who do legitimacy open“OurAlthough to mind both oneis the so can usedJewish study to thoseand the non-Jewish black-and-happened. Again,coexistence. a special thank Given you its challenges, Jews of saying that you have resources to help others people’s will to survive, one only not believe in the Holocaust or who *Includes transfers from whiteeventscommunities, pictures leading upthathelping the we Holocaust think all to of meet those and their Holocaustto Hilde,dietary Ellen andthroughout Larry for sharingthe world their helpTrudy Israel Katz with and fundingEllen Azrael who are lessDavid, fortunate, Larry and and Alison at Rotenbergtimes destitute. Donor Advised Funds needs to study the Holocaust. attempt to twist the truth of what actually Page 7 peopletryneeds. to put as theseDid coming youevents know from into historical aJFS different coordinates thoughts place,” and andmemories resources with us. so she can remain strongPhotos and by ItBarbara should Nazimov be your exceptway to as say noted you care. KorazimtransportationAlthough said. one “Sofor thecan much elderly study so that andthe we infirmedhappened. think theand Again, vibrant. a special Our thankfunding you also helps Jews in other For everyone who has already pledged, I Trudy Katz and Ellen Azrael David, Larry and Alison Rotenberg eventsprovides leading counseling up the Holocaust to members and of ourto Hilde, Jewish Ellen andcountries Larry for who sharing want their to move to Israel, or who say “thank you.” For those of you who are still try to put these events into historical thoughts and memories with us. Photos by Barbara Nazimov except as noted 2010 totals community?Yashek In addition, lecture JFS provides to focus an have seriouson Franceneeds in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. asJewish of Feb. Family 19 outreach program and acts as a clearinghouse As I mentioned above, the funds raised by Please pledge now. As you have previously Service forYashek otherThis agencies year’s lectureRichard in our area. J. Yashek As toeconomic focusefforts the to Campaignbetter on understand France represent thesethe largest portion of heard me say, Jews have a rich tradition of Jewish conditionslecture will have be worsened, held Thursday, JFS has May seen terrible an the events Federation’s actually budget.accomplished Last year you helped leading by example. All of us, no matter how Page 8 increase6, at 8 inp.m. people in Memorial looking for Chapel help. at their aims?contribute Or have$600,000 they toactually the Campaign. A few large or small the contribution, have a chance Community This year’s Richard J. Yashek efforts to better understand these Albright• Lakin College. Early Education The speaker Center will be – JCC’sdistorted years historical ago, our Campaignunderstanding was over $1 million. to become leaders. It all adds up. All of us can Campaign lecture will be held Thursday, May terrible events actually accomplished preschoolRichard andJ. Golsan, kindergarten Ph.D., have a professor a long history and challengedSo you can the see notionthat our of annual the campaign is change the world for the better. $110,708 6, at 8 p.m. in Memorial Chapel at their aims? Or have they actually 2010 totals of ofproviding French qualityat Texas education A&M University. in a nurturing, uniqueness more of important the Holocaust than ever. as well The as Federation has Free lunch…I don’t think so. It is worth its Albright College. The speaker will be distorted historical understanding as of April 19 positiveHe is environment. the author Manyor editor generations of more of Berksthe terrible taken singularity steps to helpof the reduce fate of our its expenses and weight in gold. Richard J. Golsan, Ph.D., a professor and challenged the notion of the than a dozen books. He has been a victims? This lecture will explore these 2010 totals of French at Texas A&M University. uniqueness of the Holocaust as well as Jewish visiting professor at the Sorbonne in issues through a discussion of recent as of April 19 He is the author or editor of more the terrible singularity of the fate of its Community Paris, where he taught courses on the works of literature and film as well as than a dozen books. He has been a victims? This lecture will explore these Campaign memory of World War II in postwar the 1990’s trials of French citizens on visiting professor at the Sorbonne in issues through a discussion of recent Jewish French literature and culture. charges of crimes against humanity for Paris, where he taught courses on the works of literature and film as well as Community$273,000 For more than three decades complicity in the Final Solution. memory of World War II in postwar the 1990’s trials of French citizens on Campaign France has been preoccupied with The lecture is held in memory of French literature and culture. charges of crimes against humanity for traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivor For more than three decades complicity in the Final Solution. $273,000 its recent past. But have national and longtime Berks County resident. France has been preoccupied with The lecture is held in memory of traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivor its recent past. But have national and longtime Berks County resident.

2010 totals as of Feb. 19 Jewish Community Campaign $110,708

Page 2 SHALOM May 2013 Federation News Terror can happen anywhere

By Alvin Katz who has returned from Israel. Life goes spectators, the terrorists were still able items or activities but going on with your Chairman on with what is their normalcy. to create the havoc they intended to. daily activities. We in the United States Upon returning from Our normalcy was shattered last So, is there really any difference viewing have become too complacent in our daily Israel this past spring, month in Boston, my hometown. A security here and in Israel? I don’t think activities. We need our leaders to think I was asked numerous beautiful and friendly city. A city full of so. It is only a matter of how you perceive more like Israelis and review our methods times if I felt any fear history, sports and some of the nicest security. in dealing with our security. while traveling the people you would ever want to meet. Our Here security is taking off your shoes Adopt those methods that will country. My answer hearts and prayers go out to those who to go through security at an airport, to effectively root out the terrorists who are always was NO. It is have been physically and emotionally go through a metal detector, having attempting to alter our way of life and hard to describe, but in affected by this dastardly deed. bags checked. In Israel it is constant frustrate them by showing them that we, fact, there is a sense of security and you Even with all the attention paid to vigilance. Being constantly aware of your like the Israelis, will not submit to their just don’t think about it. Just ask anyone the security of the race participants and surroundings and reporting suspicious terror. Legacy-Heritage By Paul L. Landry But what if those generations of Leave a Jewish Legacy for Berks the only way, to do that. And it does not According to the ancestors had not taken the time to County by arranging for a gift to the need to be a huge amount of money. Oxford dictionary: leave Jewish Legacies for us? And, Federation through your estate, because Modest estates can make a substantial A Legacy is: if we do not leave legacies for our all of these things require funding. A part difference! You can make a difference. 1 - A gift left in a descendants, who will? of why they currently exist is that previous Please consider taking this important will. 2 - Something Who will educate our children in generations established their own Jewish step. handed down from a their religion, in the Hebrew language, legacies that provide the funds to help For more information please call predecessor. in the meaning of Passover, Yom support today’s activities. Continue that me at 610-921-0624 or e-mail at paull@ A Heritage is: 1 - Anything that Kippur, Rosh Hashanah and other tradition! jfreading.org. All conversations are is or may be inherited. 2 - Inherited holy days? Who will bring Jewish A bequest is the simplest, but not confidential and without obligation. circumstances, benefits, etc. themed movies and events to the Two words that are similar in area? Who will arrange Jewish cultural definition and sometimes are used experiences and celebrate traditions? interchangeably. And they are two Who will support ongoing Jewish Innovative services provided to words that are deceptively important religious education for our post-Bar/ to us all. I use the word “deceptively” Bat Mitzvah teens? Who will teach homeowners and business owners because most people tend not to think future generations our values such as about them even as they influence every tikkun olam and our ability to impact for over 80 years. part of our lives. the world? The things we do and how we do Some of those things will happen, them. The way we think. The things we in part, at home and in the synagogue. • General Pest Control • Termite Control include as part of our lives and that feel But others simply benefit by being “right” somehow. All of those things, shared or built upon more broadly • Bed Bug Control • Bird Control and more, come from the Legacies through community. Jewish Federation of • Bioremediation • Vegetation Management we have received from generations of Reading provides many of those cultural, ancestors. Together, those legacies form social experiences. our Heritage. With your help the Federation can And no group of people has a richer continue doing all those things for 610-372-4500 Heritage than the Jewish people. Being generations to come, strengthening and Jewish in 2013 is the result of thousands enriching Jewish life in Berks County. www.jcehrlich.com of years of Legacies. How can you help?

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Quality. Selection. Savings. Every Day. GiantFoodStores.com OctoberMay 2013 2012 SHALOMSHALOM PagePage 33 From the President’s Desk Looking forward to a great New Year DON’T MISS OUT By Alvin Katz in need. Providing food, assistance with visit, among other sites, Yemin Orde, and Be sure to pick up the October ChairmanA lesson fromexpenses August 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 timeBy Tammy to wish allK. ofMitgang you a Our ܁nance committee has been working village in the Carmel mountains near Haifa magazine featuring a special veryPresident Happy and Sweet overtime ensuring that our funds are well which caters to youth in need, providingTHANK YOU,supplement ALVERNIA produced UNIVERSITY by the It was at the conclusion of a Special thanks to Dr. Thomas F. Flynn, president New Year. cared and accounted for. I also want to them with shelter, emotional support and Jewish Federation of Reading. workshopAs we enter held into for the educators at recognize Tammy Mitgang and her entire an excellent education. Meir Panimof Alvernia is, for University; Joseph J. Cicala, PhD.,Vice NewAlvernia Year, University we reflect that Holocaust Federation/JCC staff who work tirelessly the lack of a better description, Presidentsimilar to for University Life and Dean of Students; educator Dr. Rachel Korazim Scott Davidson, Special MA, Director thanks of to Campus Campaign Ministry on what we have for you. what we would call a soup kitchen but with Co-Chairs Howard & Victoria accomplishedsummarized bythis saying: past “I hope that As we enter the New Year, I am happy to a different concept. Here those in andneed Frank can Vecchio, M.A., M.Ed. Director of Field yearyou and realize what that challenges as educators, lie ahead one for us announce that we have a Mission to Israel get hot meals that are SERVED to Experiencesthem, not for yourHafetz partnership for spearheading in co-sponsoring the and incan the never coming teach year. theYour entire Federation scope has this month in conjunction with the Allentown cafeteria style as here in the States,hosting so that the educatorproject, workshops which raised and the $19,200 Communty for providedof the Holocaust, many interesting and therefore programs you and Federation. With the numbers participating, they don’t feel like they are getting aYom handout. HaShoah Federation! Remembrance See event Page on Sunday, 7 for a Aprillist need to make conscious educational 7. The Alvernia staff and faculty were welcoming and speakers this past year. We have attended this should be a very worthwhile Mission. In addition, Meir Panim serves thousands of advertisers and patrons. tochoices.” those less She fortunate, then asked maintained the group our state They will be visiting many sites and meeting of hot meals to schoolchildren throughoutyour friendship and support are greatly appreciated. to consider one final photograph. It was the photograph 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 aof very August successful Landmesser Gratz (picturedCollege program at right), a politicsship worker and military. I feel certain that many to help furnish clothing and furnitureTHANKS to those TO OUR SPIRITUAL LEADERS forat theour Blohmteenagers + Voss and shipyard; a wonderful taken senior in 1936 if duringnot all theof them will return with a better in need. For both of these organizationsAnd and “thank libraries you” to and Rabbi at the Brian Berks Michelson Encore program.launch of Our a navy Jewish training Family vessel Service in Hamburg, has understanding Germany. of Israel and its position in Jews throughout the world who receivefor leading your theSenior memorial Expo candleOct. 23 lighting at BodyZone. service againAmid hundredsdone a wonderful of fellow job Germans helping obediently those the lifting world their and the Middle East. They will support, I thank you. at the conclusion of the program. Joining Rabbi arms in the Nazi salute, August is the one man defiantly Michelson were Rabbi Minna Bromberg of Kesher Fromstanding the with President’s his arms folded. Desk Zion Synagogue and Rabbi Yosef Lipsker of the Rachel’s challenge to the educators was not only to Who was August Landmesser? Chabad Center of Berks County. Beingencourage their studentsAlma to learn about the beautiful, August was a former member of the Nazi party full lives of those murdered before they were herded who later came to oppose Hitler’s regime after HEARTFELT COMMUNITY SUPPORT marrying a Jewish woman, Irma Eckler. Together, they Byoff Tammy to be starved, K. Mitgang beaten and slaughtered,East buttroubled to her, and she knew that ground in Ethiopia — the JewishThank Agency youbears Reform their Congregation name, and Oheb as the Sholom ܁rst female had two daughters. Under Nazi law, he was found Presidentteach students to consider the consequenceslife forof small Israel — though it is a ܁rst-­world for Israel and the American Jewishfor making Joint itPresident possible forof theDr. KorazimJewish Federation to speak at of guilty of “dishonoring the race” and boldly showed changesAlma Lakin that wouldtake away be their rights and theeconomy rights likeof the USA, was dif܁cult and Distribution Committee (JDC)services — feared on Reading,Friday evening, she and April Dan 5. Tannenbaum, his rejection of Hitler’s doctrine at the launch of the theothers. ܁rst to pooh-­pooh complicated. for the Ethiopian Jewish community’sThanks toan Dr. executive Neil Hoffman director and of Judith the Federation, Kraines ship, Horst Wessell. He and his wife were jailed by any“Ask notion them that to she consider what happens When if those I interviewed her for a video safety when rebel forces threatenedfor opening brokeredtheir home a to partnership Dr Korazim with for Shabbather alma the Gestapo and their children sent to an orphanage. wasseemingly amazing, small, special sometimes ‘subtle’ changesthat recognized gain her and her husband, to overrun Mengistu Haile-Mariam’sdinner and tomater, the Mission Albright to Israel College, participants that wouldwho August was freed in 1941 from prison but was ormovement that she inspiredand momentum the - the proverbialEd’s ‘train goingcommunity service and the Commmunist government. shared a fun-filledestablish evening the Holocaustof laughs and Library wonderful and drafted into the war. Later, he was declared missing extraordinarydown the tracks.’ in others. Teach them to think and rethinkestablishment what of the Holocaust Library What followed was one of memoriesthe most withResource Dr. Korazim. Center (note: on the The campus. group first in action and presumed a casualty of the war. Petite,they consider big hearted obvious and or what at first glanceand Resource seems Center at Albright College, dramatic rescue operations inmet Israel’s Dr. Korazim Being at Yad Alma Vashem meant in Jerusalem)tireless service He was identified in the above picture in 1991 by deliberate,inconsequential, time spenteven tolerable.” she did not talk about her efforts to raise history. Over 34 hours and four minutes,And, thanks and to no Amanda fanfare Schaeffer, — certainly coordinator no pictures one of his children. In 1996, Irene Landmesser, a withShe Alma reminded was never us of one such change thatmoney occurred and resettle Soviet Jews in our 34 Israeli cargo and passengerof planes the Holocaust if she Librarywas expected and Resource to be in Center them. daughter, wrote a family history, saying she hoped to aboutin Germany’s her. predominantly Catholic community. schools. It Instead, she spoke of how worked around the clock, airliftingat 14,310Albright CollegeAccolades for were helping not toher coordinate style; but the she share the story of how her family had been torn apart. involvedShe cared the way about prayer others or ‘grace’, — strangers, over the thrilled noon meal, she was to meet with Natan and Ethiopian Jews to Israel fromCommunity Addis was Holocaust not without Remembrance opinion event. — thoughtful familywas offered. and friends. And she worked to Avital Sharanksy — refuseniks who at Ababa. Alma would have beamedThe having Center and is a at community times, determined. education But, resource no matter improveRather the than world thanking — here G-d for at their home, in ‘dailyextraordinary bread’, personalWould you risk overlook and or sacri܁ce downplay heard the MK change Sholomo – after Molla’s all, incrediblelocated life on Albright’swhat she putcampus. her efforts Contact behind, Amanda you could at Israelteachers and and around administrators the world. wereWhen instructed you helped to require to spark it andwas laterso minimal ignite a in global the scope story of thatthe schoolhe credits day toand the [email protected] of the be sure that or byshe calling was right 610-921-7214. by your side, werethat children with Alma, thank it “Thewas Führer”all about for you, their it noontime movement meal. to freethe Soviet consequences Jewry. Between could be severe?Federation Or, wouldsystem you that fold saved Hours: his life. Monday working – Thursday hand in hand4 pm with to 7 you pm. and others wasClearly you not who in keepingwere front with and the center teachings and of 1990the Catholic and 1997, your Federation’s arms and Operation join August (see Landmesser page 5) in an act of to do great things. Alma DR. considered RACHEL herself KORAZIM privileged,(תודה) madeChurch, to butfeel mandated special. and implemented in Exodusthe schools campaign defiance?” nationally asked raised Korazim. $1 “WhatAlma if thousands shared her of excitementpeople andTODA pride nonetheless.Alma believed that we are responsible billion to rapidlyhad rescue chosen and toresettle fold their more arms that early helped in Adolf to Hitler’s raise nearlyrise $1 millionfor helping to haveus to enjoyed revisit and so muchrethink of the life. words One of for eachDr. Korazim other according then encouraged to the principles the teachers than one to putmillion to Soviet power Jews and in defied Israel and his orders?locally towardWould thehistory capital tell campaigna we use that whenher favorite we talk memories about thewas sixcrossing million over ofthemselves chesed (caringin the place and compassion),of those German North educators. America. very PS –different Alma marched story?” with would build the U.S. Holocaust Memorial“ones”, individuals into Jordan – ‘not when paperclips’, the borders murdered with Israel Torah“Would (Jewish you have learning), the courage tikkun to refuseolam theothers mandate, in our communityLessons on are the not National just for theMuseum classroom in orWashington, for others. America’s– not exterminated were reopened. like bugs; “To each think, person she would an (repairingknowing that the word)your actions and tzedakah would certainly(social meanMall ina lossWashington I left the during session one asking of the myself national what I institutionwould have for done. the documentation, extraordinary reminisce; individual. “that we along with other justice).of your jobAnd and her possibly life was animprisonment embodiment or evenlargest worse? marches inWhat American would history. you have That done?study and interpretation of Holocaust Federation mission-goers, met with King 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.” AlbrightShe believed in theCollege bold collective Hosted movement. Dr. Korazim raindrops and tears that fell the night of Her family was her heart. She 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 we could mobilizeas an ܁nancial Experience and social Jewish world Event that resulted in the our community donned their construction responsibility and life — a special reward. 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. Albright College hosted Dr. Rachel Korazim on Thursday, April 4 at Klein Lecture literally, change the world. Israel, together with Jewish Federation At home in Berks County, the JCC’s Alma Lakin passed away Aug. 27 at Hall as an “Experience Event” for students. The ongoing turbulence in the Middle of North America’s major partners on the Lakin Early Education Center preschool the age of 82. The lecture in Israeli Contemporary Literature – Echos of the Holocaust was presented to a packed hall with more than 90 students in attendance. The talk was a look at reflections of the Holocaust in recent works of Israeli Federationliterature and explored how Israeli mission society deals with tothe Shoah Israel as a significant begins Oct. 21 influence on who Israelis are and how they behave. AThe joint interactive mission session composed included of excerpts chaired from by Michael selected and writings Susan Fromm that were and Berks County will be joining the group purpose and heightened appreciation communitydiscussed withmembers an engaged from the group Reading of students. Victor and Dena Hammel. In addition to on the mission. and connection to Jewish identity. areaDr. and Korazim the Lehigh was joined Valley by will Albright leave facultyfor Mitgang, member, Jayne Dr. John Kleinman, S. Incledon, Cultural professor Center The Reading Jewish community has Mission participants will visit Reading’s Israelof Spanish Oct. 21. and director of the Holocaust Studiesprogram Program director and and Amanda Mark Goldstein, Schaeffer, bene܁ted from teaming with the seasoned Israel Now projects — two important coordinatorFor the Reading of the Holocaust community, Library it is the and ResourceExecutive DirectorCenter locatedof Jewish on Federation the Albright of mission-goers from the Allentown area humanitarian efforts that both save ܁rstcampus mission in partnership the with Federation Jewish Federation has ledin the Lehigh of Reading. Valley will staff the mission. and Lehigh Valley Federation’s “well- and change lives — Yemin Orde Youth moreIt wasthan one15 years. of numerous A goal of events Federation in which Dr.Rabbi Korazim Brian took Michelsonpart during her from stay oiled” mission process. Village in the Carmel Mountains and Meir Presidentof several Tammy days in Mitgang Berks County and Federation as she reachedCongregation out to students, Oheb Sholom educators and and Rabbi the “Mark Goldstein and his staff have Panim’s new nutrition center in Kiryat leadership,rest of the community the Reading to sharemission her is unique co- Yosefperspective Lipsker, on the Chabad-Lubavitch Holocaust. of created over the years a network of Gat, where the community will dedicate resources and processes that have the kitchen that was made possible bene܁ted our community — newbies, thanks to the Reading community’s if you will, when it comes to mission funding efforts. SHALOM planning. And, we are neighbors. The The dedication will be a big thank you 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. andand publishedpublished monthly,monthly, SeptemberSeptember throughthrough June,June, underunder thethe JewishJewish joint efforts,” Mitgang said. With two out of every ܁ve children in 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 be addressed when moving a group Meir Panim’s network of soup kitchens, GeneralGeneral Offices:Offices: 11001100 BerkshireBerkshire Blvd.,Blvd., SuiteSuite 125125 of more than 50 people across Israel. restaurants and feeding centers, ensure Wyomissing,Wyomissing, PAPA 1961019610 Jewish FederationIsrael of North Mission America’s warm, nutritiousreunion meals for thousands of 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. WebWeb site:site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgwww.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Israel along with withKenes Tours guestwill further Atscholar Yemin Orde, the group is anxious to ensure that each and every day of the see ܁rsthand the progress that has been Jewish Federation of Reading Jewish Federation of Reading missionParticipants is maximized. in the October Mission to Israelmade trip atgather the for villagea reunion sincewith Dr . the wild܁res Chairman: Alvin Katz Chairman: Alvin Katz RachelFederation Korazim, missionswho made area series travel of local devastated appearances it in 2010.on the weekend of President: Tammy K. Mitgang President: Tammy K. Mitgang experiencesYom HaShoah. unlike She spokeany other. to educators Along and studentsThe group at isAlvernia honored University, that Chaim at Peri, Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor witha Shabbat visits toservice historic at Reformand sacred Congregation sites, beloved Oheb Sholom educator and and at directorthe community of Yemin Proofreaders: Esther Strauss & Federation staff Proofreaders: Esther Strauss & Federation staff museumsHolocaust and remembrance popular tourist at destinations,Alvernia. Orde for 30 years, will personally be hosting Member: American Jewish Press Association Member: American Jewish Press Association FederationKorazim, missions an Israel-based provide educatorexclusive, specializing the group in during teaching a tour about and thelunch. The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading insiderHolocaust, access addressed to residents, the group community during its journeyYoung to people the Holy from Land. the village will join The Mission was a joint venture between the Jewish Federations of Reading Deadline for the November issue is Oct. 5 leaders, area experts, and political the group for the tour and share their Deadline for the June issue is May 5 personalitiesand the Lehigh and Valley. provide a sense of experiences. Page 4 SHALOM May 2013 Local author and his wife thrill packed house at JCC with talk on books

Staff report Business Week. The Jewish Cultural Center of Bob Spitz is synonymous with rock Reading was packed as more than 160 royalty having written a New York people flocked to hear hometown author Times best-seller on The Beatles Bob Spitz and his wife, fellow writer and a background in entertainment Becky Aikman, talk about their new books management. He represented rock stars and writing as a couple – ‘back to back’. Bruce Springsteen and Sir Elton John. It was April 11, the first time the writing He writes regularly for magazines duo shared the same venue, and Bob and newspapers including The New Spitz took the lead. York Times Magazine; The Washington After all, he grew up in the Reading Post; Rolling Stone and O, The Oprah area, and this was familiar ground. Becky Magazine. His latest biographical work Aikman didn’t flinch. Confident in a room is “Dearie, The Remarkable Life of Julia surrounded by widows representing Child.” groups inspired by her book, she shared Clearly comfortable in his own the emotional rollercoaster of being pages, he shared with the audience his faced with the loss of her spouse at adventures with Julia Child as one of her age 40. Channeling her energies toward “dearies” following a chance meeting in more positive efforts, she decided to Sicily in 1992, and her contributions to write a book that followed a group of food celebrity today. Becky Aikman, Sue Hess and Bob Spitz take time for a photo-op after a busy book-signing session at the JCC. women — a handful of widows brought Reinventing herself and emerging Hess is a local widow who was inspired by Aikman’s “Saturday Night Widows.” together by sheer timing; the first as one of the world’s most beloved five women to sign up for the project. figures, Julia Child spent a career Becky admits the friendships weren’t spanning decades transcending instant, but it may have been those very the skillet and inspiring viewers differences that later formed the close to challenge themselves and their relationships that endure today. The culinary skills. women still get together every month In an interview, Bob Spitz said: to catch up on new relationships, family “Everything about Julia Child was a and everyday life. revelation. I never realized that she As the ringleader in her book, felt so lost in her early life — that she “Saturday Night Widows, The Adventures considered herself nothing more than of Six Friends Remaking Their Lives,” the a dilettante or “social butterfly” and was question for Becky isn’t “if” there will be headed for nothing more remarkable than a film deal, but rather, “when?” a secretary of, if possible, a housewife. Aikman, a graduate of the School Critics have applauded his book as of Journalism at Columbia University the biography Child richly deserves.” in New York, is a former reporter for The audience that night couldn’t have Newsday and writer and editor at agreed more. An appearance by local native Bob Spitz and his wife, Becky Aikman, draws a big crowd to the JCC. Jackie Robinson and the Jews: A story you won’t see at the movies

Staff report league baseball, and about all the trouble akin to Shakespeare’s Shylock. and Schiffman. The Rev. Martin Luther Jackie Robinson’s name can never be Robinson endured to make it happen. One black leader rose to defend King Jr. was among those offering forgotten by anyone who ever watches a But there is a Jewish connection to Schiffman. It was Robinson, who would support. The protests ceased. major league baseball game. His number his story that few people realize. A recent later write that he was ashamed to see Robinson had a long history of 42 is on display in every ballpark as a Jewish Exponent story retold how in other leaders of his community stay silent criticizing anti-Semitism in the black reminder of the sacrifices he made to 1962, the retired Robinson intervened in the face of anti-Semitism. community. He had witnessed the valuable integrate the game in 1947. The recent in a protest outside Harlem’s Apollo Robinson used his syndicated contributions Jews were making to the movie biography “42” has raised his Theater. Demonstrators were angry newspaper column to condemn black community’s struggle for rights. profile even higher. at its Jewish owner, Frank Schiffman, the protesters. That angered black “He hated anti-Semitism just as he Just about everyone knows, or should, and his plan to open a restaurant with nationalists, who retaliated by protesting hated prejudice against blacks,” wrote about how Robinson and Brooklyn lower prices than a nearby black-owned against the baseball and civil rights icon. Roger Kahn, a legendary baseball Dodgers executive Branch Rickey establishment. The protesters used anti- In turn, several mainstream black author. “Without qualification and from broke down the barriers to blacks in big Semitic rhetoric, depicting Schiffman as leaders came to the defense of Robinson the gut.”

Jewish Federation of Reading, PA BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND MEMBERS SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE

Annual Meeting, Sunday, June 9, 2013 at 10:30am At The “Fighting Phils” First Energy Stadium (Route 61 just south of the Bypass. Enter on the third base side- near Carpenter Technology Bldg.)

Distribution of Annual Report Election of Officers and new Board Members Light breakfast provided at the meeting

Annual Meeting will be followed by (Approx. 11:30am): • Special “Behind the Scenes” of the stadium tour prior to the game • Autograph session with various superheroes and the Crazy Hot Dog Vendor • Kids (under 14) will receive a “Fightin Phils” Superhero Cape • Free admission to the game (First pitch at 1:35pm) – The “Fightin Phils” host the “Harrisburg Senators”. May 2013 SHALOM Page 5 Special event gives guests a good look at Gratz program

By Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner were going thousands of kilometers from From April 7 to April 14, Gratz Jewish home, to save Israelis and Jews because Community High School remembered they were Jews, and that if they didn’t modern Jewish history that many of our make the effort, no one else would; (2) older community members have lived that in the fighting, the Israeli soldiers through and witnessed. were ordered not to shoot any of the For Yom HaShoah April 7, students Ugandans who did not fight them - only of the Gratz Reading Branch had a self-defense was permitted and life was special showing of “A Green Kipah” to to be respected. emphasize the often-overlooked courage After the film, the entire audience and bravery of Jewish resistance during came into the lobby of the JCC, and the the Holocaust. One student read a tribute youngest child present lit a memorial written by a friend and colleague of candle, followed by recitation ofthe branch director Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner, Mourner’s Kaddish for all who gave their and they lit a memorial candle. lives for the establishment and sustaining Gratz students were grateful to share of the modern State of Israel. Following the evening with parents and siblings and the candle-lighting ceremony, everyone with members of the Reading Jewish enjoyed a wonderful snack of hummus Community. As Rabbi Dov said to the and pita chips, salad and Israeli candies. students, it was a moment in which the Then - back to classes for the students presence of the adults validated the and for those who wished to watch the students’ extra special effort to study film Judaism weekly, and the presence of At the end of the evening, instructor the students validated the efforts of the Marley Weiner spoke about being in adult Jewish community to ensure the Israel the week before, attending an presence of the Gratz program. educational seminar for Jewish camp The Gratz curriculum includes a educators. She witnessed Yom HaShoah course in Video Values, in which film in Israel, in a museum established to scenes are used to launch discussions remember those who came from the of significant Jewish concepts. For Yom German DP camps to Israel to begin their HaZikaron, “Day of Remembrance for new lives as Israelis. Israeli Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Get ready to register! Terrorism” and Yom HaAtzmaut, “Israel Watch for registration information for Independence Day,” the students saw 5774 and course offerings for Gratz JCHS scenes from “Operation Thunderbolt,” the students, all Jewish youth in the greater story of the 1976 raid on a hijacked plane Reading community in eighth through at Entebbe Airport in Uganda 12th grade. The program also includes Participants were asked which the possibility of earning college course speeches made in the film were “most credits at a significant savings for Gratz important.” Rabbi Dov explained that for students when they move on to college. him, the two most important scenes and For information and answers to speeches were: (1) Yonatan Netanyahu specific questions, don’t hesitate to write addressing the troops, saying that they Rabbi Dov at [email protected]. Page 6 SHALOM May 2013 Poster found in Cuba an apt gift to mark Alvernia partnership

Staff report The day before Federation President Tammy Mitgang left for a mission to Cuba, Pope Benedict XVI announced he would be resigning his position. That same morning, she met with Dr. Joseph J. Cicala, Vice President for University Life and Dean of Students, and Scott Davidson, Director of Campus Ministry at Alvernia University to plan the shared Community Yom Hashoah event. Needless to say, there was discussion about the pope’s decision to step down due to health concerns. He was the first pope to resign in 600 years. Upon Tammy’s return from Cuba, she presented Alvernia University with a special “thank you” for its partnership, a framed poster of Pope Benedict’s visit to Cuba in 2012. She discovered the poster while shopping in the Plaza de Armas market. In a press photo taken in March 2012, right, the same poster can be seen hanging in a window in Santiago, Cuba. Israel Now update: How local Federation dollars are helping Staff report their refrigerators and pantries. For those (YOEI) acclaimed Derech Kfar (the emphasis on education and achievement. Thousands of people were able to unable to shop for themselves, more than Village Way) methodology as Director of Through YOEI’s Educational Institute, celebrate the Passover holiday with 1,000 food packages were delivered to Education at the Agahozo-Shalom Youth educators receive teacher training, dignity thanks to the tremendous efforts the elderly, disabled and homebound. Village in Rwanda, a youth village serving workshops and interventions that help of the Meir Panim staff and volunteers. Many thanks to all the staff, volunteers young victims of genocide modeled after apply the Village Way methodology Nearly 2,000 individuals were and donors who helped bring joy and Yemin Orde Youth Village. From 2005 in their schools; thereby, meeting the matched with host families for Passover meaning to the Passover season for the to 2007, Solomon worked in the Israeli therapeutic and educational needs of the Seders though Meir Panim’s “Kulam less fortunate in Israel. Embassy in Addis Ababa, and was later at-risk children they serve. The ultimate Beseder” program, a special initiative *** director of an immigrant absorption goal of the methodology is to educate that ensures that no one should have to Friends of Yemin Orde is proud to center in Beersheba. Solomon remains youth into becoming functioning heads spend Passover alone. Close to 4,000 announce that a graduate of Yemin Orde a close partner with Chaim Peri, YOEI of households who actively contribute to calls were received at Meir Panim’s call Youth Village, Shimon Solomon, was founder, and the Educational Initiatives their community. center, from needy individuals as well as recently elected to serve as a member in supporting the Village Way philosophy Since its inception in 1953, Yemin generous hosts. of Israel’s Knesset, or legislature. and rejuvenating more therapeutic Orde has graduated more than 4,000 David Roth, President of American Solomon, 44, immigrated to Israel residential communities, youth villages students. They currently serve as leaders Friends of Meir Panim, was overwhelmed from Ethiopia in 1980 with his parents and public schools in Israel. in various professions including: Law, by the number of calls and the offers by and five brothers and sisters. Yemin Orde There are now two Ethiopian-Israelis Military, Art, Music, Health Care, Politics, so many to open their homes to strangers Youth Village welcomed him shortly after serving as members of Israel’s Knesset. Film, Education and Technology. in need. “What a special thing it is to invite his arrival in Israel. The Village, located Also elected is Pnina Tamano-Shata, 31, *** the hungry to your Seder table,” he said. in northern Israel, is home to hundreds the first Ethiopian-Israeli woman in the Meir Panim and Yemin Orde have In addition, 150 people participated of at-risk immigrant youth from around Knesset. Tamano-Shata is an attorney, enjoyed longtime support from our in a meaningful Seder hosted by Meir the world and provides traumatized activist and former television reporter community and both receive funding Panim’s Dimona restaurant. children with a home, a safe haven and in Israel. through donations to the Jewish For struggling families wishing to an excellent education. This news marks a milestone for the Federation of Reading’s Israel Now celebrate the holiday in their own homes, Solomon’s professional career has Ethiopian-Israeli community and for Yemin program. Meir Panim distributed more than 2,000 focused on Ethiopian and refugee issues Orde and its acclaimed methodology Updates provided by staff, American food shopping cards, enabling them to in Israel. He has successfully applied which embraces self-esteem, leadership, Friends of Meir Panim and Friends of purchase Passover necessities and to fill Yemin Orde Educational Initiatives’s cultural identity and places a strong Yemin Orde” Jewish Federations empower women in former Soviet Union

Jewish Federations of North America in more than 80 percent significantly learn about access to valuable resources she mastered computer skills. Because Older female workers are especially improving their economic situation. for women needing domestic violence of her age (she is in her 50’s), the local vulnerable in a tight job market. Project The program’s computer centers shelters, rape crisis centers or local employment center refused to teach Kesher runs 18 award-winning vocational teach the fundamentals of Microsoft vocational placement services. her. Olesya went to the ORT/Keshernet computer centers in Belarus, Georgia, Office and offer training in bookkeeping In 2009, Hewlett Packard rated the center in Polotsk, and learned Word, Russia and Ukraine, in partnership with and graphic design as well as legal ORT KesherNet center its number one Excel, and other programs. Olesya got World ORT which receives substantial literacy, career counseling, job placement computer project in this region. the certificate and retained her job. support from the Jewish Federations of and resource management. The ORT/ Here’s one example of the center’s Without this help, Olesya would be out North America. They are open to women Keshernet certificate is highly valued by work: of work and unable to support herself of all ethnicities and faiths. The centers companies in this region. “Olesya works in a passport office. and her family. This is one of tens of have graduated nearly 20,000 women at a The Centers also serve as safe Last year, the office agreed to extend thousands of lives transformed by this cost of less than $75 per woman, resulting women’s centers where participants her contract for another year, but only if project.” New leader of Catholic church has Jewish connections

Staff report solidarity with Argentine Jews after the Last year Bergoglio hosted a quoted the then-archbishop as saying. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the former bombing of a Jewish community center Kristallnacht memorial event at the “We must look at him and let him look at Argentinian cardinal now known as in Buenos Aires in 1994. He signed a Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral us, to examine our heart in his presence Pope Francis, is said to have a good petition for justice in the case and signed with Rabbi Alejandro Avruj from the NCI- and to ask ourselves if we are walking relationship with Argentinian Jews, a document expressing concern on the Emanuel World Masorti congregation. blamelessly.” according to the Jewish Telegraphic event’s 10th anniversary. In June 2010, He also has worked with the Latin Renzo Gattegna, the president of the Agency news service. he visited the rebuilt center to talk with American Jewish Congress and held Union of Italian Jewish Communities, Bergoglio, 76, a Jesuit is the first pope Jewish leaders. meetings with Jewish youth who participate offered Italian Jewry’s congratulations to come from outside Europe in more Israel Singer, the former head of in its New Generations program. to the new pope with the “most fervent than 1,000 years. the World Jewish Congress, said he In his visit to the Buenos Aires wishes” that his pontificate could bring While serving as archbishop of worked with Bergoglio when the two synagogue, according to the Catholic “peace and brotherhood to all humanity.” Buenos Aires, Bergoglio attended Rosh were distributing aid to the poor in Zenit news agency, Bergoglio told In particular, Gattegna voiced the Hashanah services at a synagogue there Buenos Aires in the early 2000s, part of the congregation that he was there to hope that there would be a continuation in September 2007. a joint Jewish-Catholic program called examine his heart “like a pilgrim, together “with reciprocal satisfaction” of “the Rabbi David Rosen, the director of tzedaka. with you, my elder brothers.” intense course of dialogue that the Jews interfaith affairs for the American Jewish Bergoglio also wrote the foreward “Today, here in this synagogue, we have always hoped for and that has been Committee, told JTA that the new pope is of a book by Rabbi Sergio Bergman, a are made newly aware of the fact that also realized through the work of the a warm, sweet and modest man. Buenos Aires legislator, and referred to we are a people on a journey and we popes who have led the church in the The then-archbishop showed him as “one of my teachers.” place ourselves in God’s presence,” Zenit recent past.” May 2013 SHALOM Page 7 Happy 95th Birthday Will Sharansky’s proposal to Singer Equipment Co. bring peace to Western Wall? Staff report and women are not permitted to pray A true family affair Natan Sharansky, the chairman of together. the Jewish Agency, delivered a plan in In an interview with Britain’s The FOUNDED: By the late Frederick Singer in 1918 mid-April that some consider a ‘workable’ Guardian, Sharansky said, “According to solution that would provide an egalitarian our recommendations, the access will be WHERE: Reading, and now headquartered in the Morgantown area at place for prayer at the Western Wall. on the same level, with a shared entrance Sharansky was appointed by the Israeli and 24-hour access, and no one will be 150 S. Twin Valley Road, Caernarvon Township, prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to able to say that they are being sent to a find a solution to the 24-year-old prayer second-class place.” THE COMPANY’S PRINCIPAL LEADERS: Frederick Singer, rights dispute at the Western Wall. Anat Hoffman, founder of Women of the founder’s grandson, is president; Henry Singer, the founder’s son, His proposal divides the Western the Wall, told the Jewish Daily Forward: is chairman; and John Vozzo is executive vice president and chief Wall or Kotel, the most sacred site in the It’s not everything we were hoping for, operating officer Jewish faith, into three sections — one but we will compromise. You don’t for men, one for women and a section always have to be right, you have to WHAT THE COMPANY PRODUCES: Distributor of food-service for mixed worshippers. Sharansky’s plan be smart, and compromise is a sign of extends the Western Wall plaza to include maturity and understanding what’s at equipment and supplies throughout the mid-Atlantic region. The Robinson’s Arch, an area at the southern stake here.” company also provides kitchen design services nationwide. end where a high court ruling permits The proposal will be negotiated with worshippers to pray according to their the Waqf, the Islamic body that governs EMPLOYEES: 240 beliefs. The two existing areas where the site, known to Muslims as Haram al- men and women worship separately Sharif and is the home of the Dome of the MISSION: To be the most responsive, knowledgeable and friendly would be reserved for those wanting to Rock and the al-Aqsa Mosque. supplier to the food service industry; providing solutions to our observe Orthodox tradition. Jewish Federations of North America customers’ challenges. Since 1988, an organization, Women supports Sharansky’s statement: One of the Wall, has been campaigning for Kotel for One Jewish People. the right to pray on equal terms at the “The Jewish Federations of North HOW THE COMPANY BEGAN: In 1918, 18-year-old Frederick site. The group has clashed with police America supports the right of all Jews to Singer started Singer Crockery Co. in a 15-foot-wide store in Reading. for wearing prayer shawls and reading pray as they choose. We stand behind Traveling throughout eastern Pennsylvania, he sold china and food- from the Torah aloud, practices that the efforts of our partner, The Jewish service supplies to hotels, bars and restaurants. Fred’s brothers joined are forbidden for women according to Agency for Israel, and its Chairman, Mr. him, and they moved the business to a larger location. The company Orthodox authorities. Natan Sharansky, as he explores ways to The rules governing worship at the make this principle a reality at the Kotel,” added a contract design department and increased its inventory to include Western Wall are set by Rabbi Shmuel said Jerry Silverman, president and CEO equipment, furniture and paper goods. Singer expanded the geography it Rabinowitz, the Western Wall rabbi. Men of JFNA, in a prepared statement. served to a 150-mile radius. The company has stores in Wyomissing and Philadelphia. It has design offices in Caernarvon Township; Philadelphia; Mount Laurel, N.J.; Fort Lee, N.J.; and Woodbury, N.Y. Keep up with the latest news from Israel

THE KEY TO THE COMPANY’S SUCCESS: Singer remains and Jewish communities around the world true to its founding philosophy of offering exceptional service. The at www.readingjewishcommunity.org company’s dedication to customers is known throughout the industry.

Happy 30th birthday, Singer Travel

FOUNDED: By Helene Singer in April 1983

WHERE: Sinking Spring, now at 18 Commerce Drive, Spring Township

THE COMPANY’S PRINCIPAL LEADER: Helene Singer

WHAT THE COMPANY DOES: Coordinates travel arrangements, specializing in creative foreign itineraries and offering corporate travel with concierge service.

EMPLOYEES: Nine

MISSION: To be true travel advisers to its clients, to help them get the highest return for their travel investment and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

HOW THE COMPANY WAS STARTED: By a desire to provide an opportunity for clients to have a travel experience that was created for them as individuals.

THE KEY TO THE COMPANY’S SUCCESS: Dedicated travel advisers with years of experience and a desire to create a truly memorable travel experience.

WEBSITE: www.singertravel.com

PHONE: 610-378-1610

QUOTE: “Our clients surf the Internet, but they come to us to fulfill their trips: honeymoons, anniversaries, family gatherings, wonderful vacations - because they know that our expertise will give them added value and price integrity.” - Helene Singer —Text courtesy of Reading Eagle Page 8 SHALOM May 2013 Community News

Kesher Zion set to host Page  Shalom March 2010 free community concert Community News Staff report as “Feedback” features a discussion Rabbi Minna Bromberg of Kesher on the concert and introduces some of Obituaries Zion Synagogue will be taking part in its diverse performers. The concert will “Common Chords,” a free community feature WEEU personality and local Lucy Suzanne Knoblauch L. (Sulman) Moyer. He is also survived concert for peace to be held Sunday, bluegrass star Dave Kline, Barbara Ann Zeidman, 96, Wyomissing. by his daughters, Aileen D., widow June 23, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Kesher Zion. Schadler Greim performing on the harp, Surviving are a son, Bruce F., of Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. “I can’t wait to hear our sanctuary filled Native American folk musicians Spirit husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman, of Roxanne, wife of Les Walker, of Batavia with so many voices,” said Bromberg, Wing, and the “acoustic fusion” of Jill Shillington; a brother, Harry Knoblauch, Ohio; sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine who will perform at the concert. “This Haley and Mark Oppenlander. husband of Edith Knoblauch, of Reading; K. Moyer, of Sinking Spring and Jay is a wonderful confluence of musicians Organizers said the goal of the a sister, Ruth Balis of Wyomissing; and H., husband of Margaret R. Moyer, of singing and playing our hearts out for the concert is to bring together people from several nieces and nephews. Muhlenberg Township. Other survivors sheer joy of letting music bind us together different backgrounds who believe that Michael and Susan Fromm with Justin Padinske and Alvernia Presidnt Tom Flynn, --- are grandchildren: Brett A. Endy, Chad in human kinship.” we must jointly provide the energy to Irene S. Zeidman, 62, Wyomissing. M. Endy and Elizabeth K. Moyer; and Tune into WEEU 830 AM on create light and love where darkness Fromm Award winner named She is survived by her brother Bruce great-grandchildren, Carson N., Logan Wednesday, June 19, from 9 a.m to noon exists. Justin Padinske of Mohrsville has her junior orImages senior year at from Alvernia. F., husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman C., Ardyn N. and Ava L. Endy been named the first winner of the Padinske is a graduate of Schuylkill of Shillington. --- Girl Scouts honor Oppenheimer Fromm Interfaith Award at Alvernia Valley HighYemin School andOrde a general --- Shirley Robinson of B’nai B’rith University.The award was established by scienceArea major resident at Alvernia. and recent His college project Robert Berger, 54, Reading. Apartments. Survived by her Friendship Michael and Susan Fromm and goes to is to convenegraduate and Jessica host Flamholz an open sent panel us Staff report He was the former spouse of Lea Circle friends. a student interested in interfaith dialogue discussion including students, faculty Yvonne Frey Oppenheimer, a retired these pictures from her recent visit Berger, Reading. He is survived by --- and with a plan for a related project or and community members of various consultant to nonprofits, a past president to Yemin Orde, an Israeli village two daughters, Molly R. Berger, State Louis Malamud, 95, formerly program. This award provides a $1,000 faiths, open to the Alvernia community of Jewish Federation of Reading and for children and youth supported College, and Bethany S. Berger, of Temple. He is survived by a son, scholarship for a student entering his or and the public. a community leader and philanthropist by our Federation. Reading; and one brother, Dr. Barry M. Mitchel, husband of Laura Malamud, was awarded a “Take The Lead Award” Berger, husband of Kathleen A. Vieweg, of Las Vegas; grandchildren Barry at the 2013 Take The Lead Award event Boston, Mass. husband of Johna Malamud, Deborah April 17 at the Sovereign Performing Arts All Around the Town______--- Babbit-Malamud and Sheri Malamud; Center. The recognition honors her as an David Moyer, 85, Reading. and great-grandchildren: Jessy Babbit, outstanding role model for her courage, By CongratulationsJoan G. Friedman to Diane and Irving Badalworks ,in who the Gov.has receivedMifflin School the honor District. of He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Carly Malmud and Ian Malamud. confidence and character in making the FidlerCongratulations on the birth of theirto Korey fifth grandson, Blanck being chosen as the*** Child Advocate of world a better place. andEli Henry, to Edith son ofBlanck Leah and on Joseph the birth Fidler of the MazelYear for Tov the toState Gad of Pennsylvania.& Beth Anne Tammy Mitgang, Federation theirof Pittsburgh. new granddaughter and great- (Katz) Ages on the*** arrival of their son, Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests! President, was one of several community granddaughter! *** LiorBest S. Ages. wishes Lior tois aour grandson Berks Countyof Alvin leaders to nominate Yvonne for the Congratulations *** to Aaron athletesand Betsy competing Katz, Exeter. in the 2010 Maccabi award. Tammy noted, “Yvonne has Costenbader,Mazel Tov to the daughter Bluestone of Family Robin: Games: Shalom Newspaper (Joan Friedman) been a mentor to so many nonprofit ToCostenbader-Jacobson David and Marianna on and their Melvyn new EmilyUntil & next Jared time: Baksic Shalom!, swimming 5” (2 col.) x 7” professionals in our community and has daughterJacobson and on herto grandparents engagement Eric to John and Andrew Blickle, basketball Marissa. MatthewPlease e-mail Eisenberg all your, swimming simcha news Questions? provided professional expertise and Gantz III. Aaron is employed by Greater to [email protected]. volunteer service – countless hours of Reading Economic Partnership*** and John Hannah and Alexis Glassmire, Contact Jodi Gibble, Marketing Director Congratulations to Charles and swimming ‘roll up your sleeves’ leadership. Yvonne Cheerleading Coach and Reading Youth Brenda Diamond on the engagement Brandon Missan, soccer READING The Highlands at Wyomissing not only leads by example, she is the Cheerleading Director for Reading Obituaries was an active member of Temple Oheb of their son Brett and to grandfather Al Sholom Sisterhood. She is survived by 2801 Papermill Road 2000 Cambridge Ave., Wyomissing, PA 1910 example we should all strive to follow. School District and Michele Richards, Anna (Prager) Schneider, 71, Diamond. her daughter, Phyllis Schlanger and her Wyomissing, Pennsylvania The recognition is so well deserved. Senior Vice President, Commercial Exeter Township. Anna is survived by 10-288-3405 *** daughter-in-law Susan Schlanger. Other Personally, I am privileged to have Banking for Fulton Bank. her husband, Moisey, her sons Jeffrey Until next time: Shalom! Mazel Tov to Rosalind Hyman and survivors[Email allinclude your simcha her grandchildren, news to joan@ GROUP RATES AVAILABLE benefitted by her guidance and having Take The Lead Berks County Schneider and his wife, Marina, of her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman great-grandchildrenfriedman.net] and many nieces her as both a colleague and friend.” 2013 Committee was led by honorary Exton, and Boris Schneider and his wife, and nephews. Call Alice for a Site Tour Take the Lead supports Girl Scouts of chair, Carolyn Holleran, Community Tatiana, of Reading, there are also three --- Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP) programs, Volunteer and Co-Chairs – Angel L. grandchildren. KEEP Other survivors UP WITH include THE COMMUNITY Elaine (Engle) Hafetz, 96, of ✦ which encourage girls to discover Helm, Community Volunteer and Thomas a brother Alexander Prager and sisters (610) 736-2082 www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Visit www.readingjewishcommunity.orgReading. Elaine had worked in the themselves, connect with others, and F. Flynn, Ph.D., Alvernia University. Frima Naumann, Claudia Tabachnikov, family business, Raylon Beauty Supply take action to improve their communities. The event was sponsored by Alvernia and Ada Kizhnerman. and was active in Hadassah and Kesher GSEP serves girls in Berks and eight University, Carpenter Technology --- Zion Sisterhood. She was an avid golfer other counties. Corporation, East Penn Manufacturing Edward Coopersmith, 95, formerly and enjoyed playing canasta. She is Others recognized include, Michelle Company, Inc., Fulton Bank, Jerlyn of Reading and Palm Beach, Fla. Edward survived by her daughter Linda, wife M. Davis, Community Volunteer; Crystal Foundation, National Penn Bank, Reinsel was a former president of Talbot Knitting Gilmore-Harris, Reading High School of Michael Roeberg, Reading and son II hadhad nono idea!idea! Kuntz Lesher LLP, Wells Fargo. II hadhad nono idea!idea! Mills and served in the Navy during ou’ve worked hard to accumulateHoward Hafetz your and wealth. his wife, Victoria. We hear this again and again from residents of The Highlands. WWII. He is survived by his son Robert Trust it to someone whoOther will survivors work even include harder six grandchildren to , husband Y of Mindy Coopersmith of • People are so friendly. and five great-grandchildren. Hyman wins Alvernia award Fleetwood; and three daughters: Beth, • There’s so much for me to do. grow your assets and provide you with peace--- of mind wife of Robert Caster of Wyomissing; • I love the independence and Robert Mellon, M.D., 92, of Exeter Staff report Joan, wife ofas Stephen you plan Schuldenfrei for the future. and From financial planning and Township. Robert served in the Army privacy at The Highlands. Rosalind Hyman has been named Marilyn wife of Mitchell Orlin. Other investment management to duringcustom WWII credit as a Medicalsolutions, Officer Captain. • I don’t worry about my future. winner of the Rabbi Alan Weitzman survivors include 13 grandchildren, five He was a psychiatrist and an avid tennis • Dining is like a fine restaurant. Award at Alvernia University in honor great-grandchildrendeposit products and two sisters-in- and more. Clermont Wealth Strategies player and fan. He is survived by his wife, • My kids are so glad I’m here. of her many volunteer efforts in the law. – personal, focused and highlyJoan, confidential. and his sons Michael, Seth, Noah community, including helping to launch --- • I feel like I’m at a resort. and Adam. He is also survived by his the Seniors College at Alvernia in 1998. Rose (Cohn) Goldrich, 102, of West • This was a smart and valuable granddaughter Zoe Mellon. Hyman co-founded Alvernia’s college Reading. She is survived by her daughter financial decision. --- for older adults in partnership with Barbara Solowey. Other survivors include • They do things first class. Financial Planning ComprehensiveFrances S. Dobb Investment, 98, ofManagement Wernersville Weitzman, rabbi emeritus of Reform her grandchildren, Elyse Horowitz, Leslie and formerly of Reading. Frances was a • I wish I’d moved here sooner. Congregation Oheb Sholom. Sheftel, CustomEllen Lengel Credit Solutionsand Gerry Trattner, Bank Deposit & Convenience Products professional piano player and entertainer • I love it here! Her service to the community includes and four great-grandchildren. Wealth Preservation & Transfer Services in theRetirement Reading Planning and Berks County area having served as president of RCOS --- for many years. She is survived by her and of Torch International, founder of Sidney G. Kane, 80 of Reading. daughter Sarah, wife of Fred Silverman Come tour The Highlands. the Parkinson’s Support Group and as a Sidney graduated from Harvard of Warminster. Other survivors include board member of the Reading Emergency University and later served in the Navy Find out first hand why it is the best place for her sisters Rebecca Paksa, Ann Smith Shelter (now Opportunity House) and the during the Korean War. He is survived CLERMONT WEALandTH TessSTRA FriedmanTEGIES and a brother Sam retirement living. Greater Berks Food Bank. by his sons Michael Kane and his wife, ATShulman. “I am delighted to receive this award, Cindy, of Los Angeles and Jonathan --- If you’re exploring options and choices but mostly, I am honored,” Hyman said. course offerings. Today it has about 450 Kane, married to Holger Mauthe of Malvina Bloom, 89, originally from for your retirement years, be sure to call Hyman said Rabbi Weitzman invited students and more than 60 classes. She Calgary, Alberta. Other survivors include New York spent the last 20 years of her life her to get involved in the seniors college thanked the Alvernia faculty for stepping his three grandchildren and a brother us for a tour. You too can be a part of in Berks County. She enjoyed Friendship as it was getting off the ground, and she up and helping out in the school’s mission Edward Kane. this wonderful lifestyle. We have every- Circle and mahjongg. Survivors include immediately saw it as an extraordinary to educate older adults. --- thing from a studio apartment to gracious 1.866.332.8393her daughter Karen (John) Parish of opportunity. “Here we are, 15 years later and still Dorothy Schlanger, 101, of North cottages. We would love to meet you Fleetwood and Robin Bloom of Portland, She pointed out that the Seniors going strong and growing,” she said of Wales and formerly of Reading.clermontwealth.com Dorothy and answer your questions. College began with 69 students and nine the program. Ore., and three grandchildren. 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 +++++ May 2013 SHALOM Page 9 Congregational News Appreciate our differences while aiming for unity By Rabbi Yosef Lipsker “sameness” and go to great ends to ourselves from the community we live in? This level of utter cohesion can Chabad Center of Berks County achieve it, another trend has become Maybe being similar to a group of people, only be achieved when we recognize Basic human increasingly popular. The desire to be part of a greater whole, is actually better and appreciate the differences in nature compels us to “different,” “unique,” and “individual”. It than being so distinct. others, when we overlook each other’s look for similarities seems that today, the new trend to conform When the Jewish people left Egypt, weaknesses and embrace our strengths between ourselves, to is actually to try to be unlike anyone else! they were a group of divided, and and similarities, when the unison is and seek common How often do we hear the all too familiar sometimes bickering, individuals. In greater than the divide. Yes, we are interests. A shared whine, “That’s boring, everyone does it,” or seven short weeks of intense preparation, individuals, each with our own personality moment can lead to the “I just want to be different!”? From little kids they managed to become a cohesive and traits, which we must utilize to the cultivation of rewarding who insist on wearing short sleeves and unit, an undivided nation. When the fullest, but at the same time, we must relationships, creating sandals in the middle of winter, to teenagers Torah writes of the Jews arrival at the move beyond our celebration of self for a bond between two otherwise unaffiliated willing to sport the most outlandish hair mountain, it uses the singular verb, the benefit and unity of the greater whole. individuals. styles and adults who cannot possibly use “and he camped,” as opposed to the As we move through this period Similarities give us a sense of the same décor for their parties - we all try to expected, “and they camped” (Shemot of self-improvement, approaching the belonging, a feeling of community. distinguish ourselves in some way, to stand 19:2). The commentator Rashi explains festival of Shavuot, let us ask, aspire Indeed, we see peer pressure surface out, to be “someone.” this phenomenon by saying, “They and work toward the ultimate unity, which in all facets of society, regardless of age, For many, this quest for individuality were like one people, with one heart.” was realized at the time of the revelation race or culture. Few are immune to the has become an all-encompassing So united were the Jews at this time, when the entire nation camped “as one desire to belong. aspiration, a passion, almost a religion. they were considered like one person, a people with one heart”. Wishing the entire Yet as much as we strive for this But do we really want to distinguish comprehensive whole. community a happy Shavuot!

LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES Adult Education with Rabbi Minna Bromberg KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. “Walking with God” series on Wednesdays, Something for Everyone Shabbat, Saturday, May 11 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the KZ Library Friday Evening Service – Please call 610-374-1763 for service information Babysitting available upon request with one week’s notice May 8 – God and Us REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM Friday, May 3: Shabbat service, 6 p.m. May 22 – SIYYUM Saturday, May 4: Matthew Driben Bar Mitzvah, 4 p.m. (a festive conclusion to our learning together!) Friday, May 10, New Member Shabbat, 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 14: Shavuot Service at 8 p.m. followed by movie & cheesecake. Fridays, May 17, 24 and 31, 7:45 p.m.; Saturday, May 18: Tot Shabbat, 10 a.m. Saturday, May 25: Kacie Horowitz Bat Mitzvah, 10 a.m. Come celebrate Shavuot with Kesher Zion! Tuesday, May 14: 7:30 p.m. Shavuot Festival Services CHABAD CENTER OF BERKS COUNTY Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Study Session (and cheesecake) “Learning versus Knowing: Gnosticism and its influence on rabbinic Judaism?”

Wednesday, May 15: 9:30 a.m. Shavuot Festival Services

Thursday, May 16: 9:30 a.m. Shavuot Festival Services including Yizkor 12:30 p.m. Lunch & Learn: “Wisdom is Calling: Torah, Gnosticism, and Creation”

“Something for Everyone Shabbat” at Kesher Zion Saturday, May 11

9:30-10:20 a.m. —Torah Study in the Library 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. — Traditional Minyan in the Chapel & Learning Service in the Main Sanctuary Noon — Kiddush for everyone!

Kesher Zion Rummage Sale October 13 & 14

Kesher Zion will be holding a two-day fundraising rummage sale this fall. We are looking for donations as well as volunteers to join our team to revitalize KZ’s fundraising efforts. Donations include gently used clothing, toys, household items and books, as well as other items as needed by our committee.

We are ready to accept all donations and will pick up at your location.

If you have any items you would care to donate or would like to become part of our fundraising team, please contact Susan Wilson at 610-301-2083 or [email protected]. Page 10 SHALOM May 2013 Jewish delis are in a pickle all around the country

By Mark Nemirow It’s not just in L.A. A deli in Chicago seconds. Jewish comfort food doesn’t made the food trendier for the younger I love a good deli. A trip to New York recently shut down, and in a move that hit work that way. Even a deli sandwich generation,” said David Sax, author of isn’t complete without some pastrami or close to home for me, our family’s favorite takes a few minutes to have the meat “Save the Deli.” “Hopefully it’s the green corned beef and a knish. I had always New York deli, the Stage, shut its doors sliced at the time it’s made. shoots of a recovery.” assumed the traditional artery-clogging after 75 years. The owners blamed high The article did offer some hope, Sax has been warning for years about cuisine of our heritage would be around rent and the recession taking a bite out pointing out how some delis are adapting. the decline of the deli and its implications forever, even if I have to drive a bit to of business. Art’s deli in Southern California, which for Jewish and urban culture. I must admit find it. According to the Times, New York had dates back 55 years, now sells lots of I didn’t pay much attention to him until my Then recently I came upon a Los thousands of Jewish delis some decades egg-white omelets and salads. Before own favorite deli closed. Angeles Times story that suggested the ago — mostly neighborhood places. closing, L.A.’s Junior’s added gluten-free Here’s something else to consider. I deli as we know it is on the path toward Today it’s down to a few dozen, many of rugelach and vegan chopped liver with recall going to appetizing shops as a child extinction. The article recounted how a them tourist attractions with high prices peas and lentils. in suburban New York to buy smoked fish 53-year-old L.A. deli was closing down, and ridiculous portions. I enjoy such “You don’t have to have just rye bread and other delicacies. Precious few such and that it was part of a national trend. places, but it’s not the sort of thing one and pastrami to have a deli sandwich,” stores remain. Old-time New Yorkers will Of course, longtime Reading can eat every day and survive very long. one L.A. deli owner said. tell you that while bagel shops are a dime residents know all about what it’s like to “There’s nothing that can bring back Many say the true Jewish deli a dozen, even there many are serving an lose their delis. I’ve often heard people the centrality of the deli in either Jewish renaissance is happening in the inflated shadow of what they remember speak longingly of long-gone local life or American life,” Ted Merwin, an San Francisco Bay Area, where from years ago. (though I believe even establishments. expert on Jewish culture, told the Times. establishments are experimenting with an inferior New York bagel is well worth Big cities had been a stronghold for “There’s no way they’re going to survive farm-to-table sourcing and ditching Dr. eating!) Jewish delis, but these days urban patrons in the numbers they once did.” Brown’s celery soda for house-made The good news is there are still plenty are interested in hipper, perhaps healthier One L.A. deli man spoke of his beverages. of good delis to choose from. Support options. High rents and an economy as frustration with younger customers “A number of new delis have folded them when you can to keep a delicious sour as a pickle don’t help, either. accustomed to cheap food delivered in in with the artisanal movement and piece of Jewish culture alive. When terror descends on an Israeli resort town Becky Caspi Director General Israel that there were incoming rockets. Those outskirts of the city. Thankfully, this time Gaza knows — when you hear a siren, Office for The Jewish Federations of who stood at attention remembering there were no injuries, though the city’s you run for cover. And we are used to North America, wrote the following blog Israel’s fallen, did so in error – rather busy airport was temporarily closed as them knowing this. We are used to these post in the wake of recent rocket attacks than taking cover as they should have. A a precaution. Another resort town only children running for cover during a Yom on Eilat. quiet resort city of over 50,000, heavily one mile away, flies a different flag— that HaShoa ceremony, as they did last week topped up by the thousands of tourists of Jordan. That didn’t stop the terrorists when rockets were fired. And we’ve ”Every child living within 40 kilometers who visit Israel every year for sun, sand from firing at Aqaba, where two hits were gotten used to cringing when these same of Gaza knows — when you hear a siren, and sea, Eilat had never experienced a reported. Once again, we have clear children occasionally make the mistake you run for cover” Code Red siren until this Wednesday. proof that terror doesn’t discriminate. I of tensing in alarm when they hear an Eilat residents stopped their cars So when at 9:03 a.m. Wednesday two cannot imagine what terror these people ambulance siren or police car. It’s easy and got out for a moment of silence. rockets were fired from Sinai, the schools must have felt when they realized to forget that this is not how it is meant They stopped for the fallen of Israel. were packed with children just back from after a few seconds that this was no to be. Except this time it wasn’t a siren for celebrating Israel’s 65th Independence remembrance siren honoring those who If we needed a reminder that this is remembrance, it was a siren triggered Day. One rocket landed in a backyard fell in Israel’s wars, but war itself. not normal, then that’s just what we got by Israel’s Iron Dome system warning in a residential area and another in the Every child living within 40 km of yesterday when sirens sounded in Eilat. Program backed by JDC helps troubled children in Israel Joint Distribution Committee classroom was staffed by two teachers, in its initiatives for the country’s most diversely qualified staff. “Every child has Odelia knew her 5-year-old daughter a psychologist, a physiotherapist, a disadvantaged babies, toddlers, and the potential to develop and thrive in a “Tamar” was different. After learning social worker and various volunteers, all preschoolers through New Beginnings. healthy and enriched environment—they she’d been a victim of abuse at the of whom were invested in her success In Tamar’s case, it was the classroom just need someone who believes in first day care she attended, Odelia was from day one. speech therapist who noticed that she did them,” says Mabel. “The foundation of reluctant to enroll her in kindergarten This staffing matrix chosen by the not react in the same way as other children our program is that early intervention full time. Then she heard about the early childhood center in Netanya is just to what was happening around her. Upon is critical to helping kids develop and New Beginnings program at a local one of the myriad services offered by New recommendation, Odelia took Tamar to get progress through successive phases to kindergarten in Netanya. Beginnings to help communities meet the tested and learned she had limited hearing becoming successful adults.” An early childhood initiative launched by unique needs of their local populations. — 40 percent in one ear, 25 percent in the To date, New Beginnings has the government of Israel and coordinated By giving communities autonomy to other. Diagnosing the problem was the critical identified some 48,000 Israeli children by the Federation-backed Joint Distribution choose which services to implement, first step to getting this child on a better path. (from birth to age 6) as being at-risk. The Committee nationwide, New Beginnings New Beginnings is making a bigger Targeting children from birth to age 6, factors that challenge their development offers early-intervention and treatment impact in enhancing the preventative the New Beginnings program is reaching include lack of proper parental care, programs designed to improve the services/practices in health centers, and tracking the progress of 14,000 inadequate early intervention for special prospects of at-risk Israeli children. Among schools, and community institutions children in 72 locations across Israel, needs, and mounting poverty. While these programs is an early childhood across Israel. with plans to expand to a total of 164 Israel boasts many early childhood center that brings together a variety of This approach, first developed by communities — many of them distressed services, socioeconomically distressed services. Seeing an opportunity for her JDC in working with specific populations — across Israel over the next three years. communities — homes to many of the daughter to get an exceptional level of (PACT — Parents and Children Together In each location, a variety of accessible, kids who need them most — often do care at the early childhood facility near her for Ethiopian-Israelis, and ECHAD quality, community-based services not fully benefit. Services are either home, Odelia enrolled Tamar. for Israeli Arabs), was endorsed and promote positive social, emotional, and insufficient to meet community needs or When Tamar entered the program, her adopted by the government of Israel behavioral development among young inaccessible for those who need them. at-risk children; increase support for New Beginnings was designed to rectify families, and ensure culturally adapted this situation and give Israel’s neediest training for staff. kids a chance for a brighter future. BERKS CARDIOLOGISTS, LTD. When Tamar went back to school the Odelia could not be happier with her and Diagnostics Imaging Center specialist in the classroom who’d helped daughter’s progress and the parenting identify the issue then created plans to skills she learned from the program, too. assist Tamar and monitor her progress “I went to speak to a psychologist and got and development. helpful tools I utilize every day at home, 2605 KEISER BLVD. Ida, an educational psychologist at the such as how to set boundaries with my WYOMISSING, PA 19610 center explained, “We know assessment child,” she says. “I went to a storytelling and intervention are most effective when workshop with the speech therapist and FOR AN APPOINTMENT, CALL they’re carried out in an environment that learned new ways to play with my her— is familiar to the child.” That’s why the things I never could have done before.” (610) 685-8500 program brings psychologists into the This is a hallmark of the program: classrooms to identify special needs, Children receive the tools and support Gary M. Lattin, MD Hani H. Salha, MD plan and implement interventions, track they need to succeed, while parents and Charles R. Minehart, MD Rajendra H. Solanki, DO the children’s development, aid the educators learn how to foster children’s Meir Mazuz, MD Robert E. Shapiro, MD teachers professionally, and provide growth and development. Guy N. Piegari, Jr., MD Ronald J. Polinsky, Jr., MD the parents with counseling. That’s how “I trust the specialists here because Frank Politzer, MD Michael B. Russo, MD Tamar got help at her new kindergarten. they approach my child with love and Louis Borgatta, MD Christopher B. Rogers, DO Mabel, the Netanya Center’s Director, warmth and are invested in her success,” Mayank R. Modi, MD Saum A. S. Noori, MD says her facility offers “rich services for Odelia says of the center’s staff. “Even Andrew R. Waxler, MD poor people.” Here 150 kids benefit from without corrective surgery, Tamar is services, workshops, and the care of her developing and prospering here.” May 2013 SHALOM Page 11 Feast of Weeks

Solution on Page 13 © 2013, Bernard Mann / Legacy Crosswords Down Across 1. “______Girls” 1. Opp. of hot 2. At the nadir 4. Daniel ______, late CBS, CNN, and 3. Infamous Marquis Giving thanks for spring NPR journalist 4. SHAVUOT IS ORDAINED IN _____ 10. Cathedral part YETZIAT MITZRAYIM By Anne Seltzer asked her if it would be okay to attend. 14. Garden tool 5. Heap of stones raised for a memorial It has been a long So I got to attend a wonderful program 15. Manatees ______grasses, among 6. The A/C in summer, the ___ in winter winter in many ways. on bullying that took place at our Temple. other aquatic plants 7. U.S. World War II intelligence agency But I think it is safe to Part of the presentation was given by a 16. ____ and GreB proteins are 8. How a store clerk changes the labels finally say that spring is local attorney who had developed a very important in polymerase functions 9. What the Kon-Tiki was here! Walking around useful presentation that I intend to take 17. Utterances like ouches 10. We find Puerto del _____ in Nuevo our own property the to our school board. The other part of the 18. SHAVUOT IS THE HARVEST OF Leon, Mexico daffodils, hyacinths, and presentation was a speaker named Joe “THE ______” 11. Most expensive flowering trees are in McGettigan III, who was a prosecutor in 20. Anyone who (and any device that) 12. Third son of Adam and Eve bloom. The tulips are the Jerry Sandusky case. He was one can scan and understand text 13. “At ____, men!” ready to burst any day. of the attorneys who interviewed and 22. The suit picked up his/her ______19. “----get your kicks, on ___ 66.” The azaleas are setting buds and the worked with the young men who were case. 21. “Get the spin doctors in here! We lilacs are starting to get leaves and form abused by Sandusky. It was one of the 23. “You won’t catch ______socks need ______control!” tiny flowers! Many of the perennials are most fascinating discussions I have anymore.” 24. “Oh, yes. I heard he and she are an breaking ground also. It is a very exciting heard. Additionally, he was a prosecutor 26. PRIEST WHO MENTORED ____ now.” time of year in nature. in the DuPont case many years ago. SAMUEL 25. The farmer hired four additional When we got Buttons six years ago, I want to take this opportunity to 27. Holds up a tulip pickers for each ______that yielded one of the stipulations from Alan was that thank our dear friends who have been so 28. Exam peppers. I walk her every day. One of the perks of supportive of us these past three months. 30. Tokyo’s ancient name 29. ____ and now that this time of year is that every morning Having people know you like to bake and 33. Disgraced Nixon’s disgraced vice- 31. Homer Simpson utterance when Buttons and I take our walk we see cook is also a perk . For special occasions president 32. “___ for the money, two for …” new flowers blooming all around. It is very and for cheering up they might buy you a 36. In the summer, try to stay out of the 34. Queen Elizabeth’s ___ Brt. peaceful to walk down East Park Road cookbook. Recently I have been inundated ______(2 words) 35. The ____ River flows into the St. in Wyomissing Hills under a canopy of with new cookbooks, and believe me I 39. ON THIS HOLIDAY, ALL WHO Lawr. cherry blossom trees. It looks like walking am not complaining. Besides making COULD TOOK A ______37. Western Native American through a fluffy white and pink boulevard interesting reading, they provide a glut of TEMPLE AT JERUSALEM (3 words) 38. Folks with wanderlust love ______of cotton candy. There is the house on new recipes (not gluttony). 43. As in Hebrew we can repeat the (2 words) Belmont Street in West Lawn that first This recipe is from “Tate’s Bake Shop letter “hei, hei”, in Greek one can say 39. Cat or parakeet, typically had snowdrops, then crocuses, now has Baking for Friends”. I made it last weekend “___, ___” 40. Judge ___, of the infamous O.J. daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips blooming. for an impromptu dinner party. 44. Certain seat maker court case We have literally watched spring unfold in Lemon-Ginger Shortbread 45. Bottom’s opposite 41. One who keeps a stopwatch on turns that one yard alone. Taking a deep breath of 3 c. all unbleached all purpose flour 46. John Irving’s The World According around the track oval the smells is exhilarating. Beauty surrounds 1 c. chopped crystallized ginger to ____ 42. Those who have ____ between teeth us if we take the time to look. I will admit ¾ c. sugar 48. Panthera ____, the Jaguar have toothy smiles that until having Buttons I never took the grated zest of one lemon 52. “I’ll be careful on the beach. Just 47. NAOMI SHEMER’S JERUSALEM time to “smell the roses”. ¾ lb. (3 sticks) unsalted butter want a light ___.” ______(2 words) Being a member of the House 2 T. fresh lemon juice 55. SHAVUOT, TOGETHER WITH 49. ORANGES OF ISRAEL, A Committee at the Temple offers very Line 9 x 13 baking pan with aluminum PESACH AND SUKKOT, ARE ______FAVORITE AT THIS TIME few perks and a lot of issues. When foil and spray or butter. With mixer on 58. IN ANCIENT TIMES, WE WOULD 50. “Oh, that’s a ______lad!” renting out the social hall recently I met low combine flour and sugar. Add butter LOOSEN THE ____, THEN PLANT A 51. No sizable city is as close to Lake a woman who unknowingly offered me chopped into small pieces. Mix on low until ___ IN OUR COURTYARD Tahoe ______is. a perk. She is a member of a support it looks crumbly, about 1 ½ minutes. Add 61. “Not so! ______said that!” (2 words) 53. One of the last Oldsmobile models group of parents of special learners. They ginger, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Press 62. TWO CHOICES FOR RIDING IN 54. Colts and Broncos belong to it. were having a program on “Bullying 101”. evenly into pan. Bake at 325° for about an 39 ACROSS 56. In many stadiums, the fifth section Because bullying has been a special hour until golden brown on top and a little 65. WE LIGHT HOLIDAY CANDLES ON will be called ____ _ focus of mine since being elected to the browner on edges. Cut while warm (still in THE ___ OF SHAVUOT 57. “__ ___ Forest”, a yuletide carol school board, I was very excited and pan). Remove from pan after cooled. Enjoy! 66. Preceding your password, you enter 58. ____, meaning shade or darkness your ____-name. in Old English 67. “The porous stone pavement”, in 59. Kiln for hops, malt, tobacco Spanish 60. Light bulb’s the sign 68. Comedian Bruce, for short 63. Largest public radio network in U.S. 69. ____-pine -- keeps heart rate steady 64. Ornamental carp during surgery 70. ______Brody, the actor www.barrerandwhite.com 71. Sign often outside a theater 610‐376‐3956 311 Penn Ave West Reading Page  12 SHALOMShalom MayMay 2013 2010 JewishJewish Family Family ServiceService CarSeder donation for seniors helps among sustain community JFS programs highlights By Sari Incledon has been offering summer reading By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. JFS (and get a tax donation at the same Simon and VeeVee Scott. We could not run Pesadich desserts. Thanks to Jeff Bornstein This month programs for children and adults. Taught Thank you to Dave time) call me at 610-921-0624 or go to the food bank without them. and Corinne Wernick for their assistance in we are sharing by instructors from the Institute of Reading Walker for participating www.charitableautoresources.com. On April 2 JFS sponsored a Seder at serving the meal. Generous contributions information about Development, classes will be held in in our car donation Each month our food bank serves more the Manor at Market Square. The Manor’s made in memory of Natalie Adelglass by varied programs Reading (Googleworks) and West Lawn program. The proceeds and more people. (In March we served residents were joined by residents of family and friends underwrote the Seder. throughout the (West Wyomissing Chapel). The following from his auctioned car 182 people in 62 households). We could Providence House and Friendship Circle Finally, thanks to the bakers of the Berks Community. four-week programs meet once a week will help support our not provide this important service without seniors. Boscov’s provided a delicious meal, Kesher Zion religious school and Temple Senior Seder for two hours will be starting the last week programs. If you would dedicated volunteers. Thank you to long- enjoyed by all. A big thank you to baker Oheb Sholom’s sisterhood for providing us Held at the Manor of June. like to learn more about time volunteers Karen Sherman and Norman extraordinaire Sheila Bornstein for furnishing with hamentashen that were distributed to at Market Square • Reading Readiness for 4-year- this easy way to help Wilikofsky and to our new volunteers Jan participants with a vast array of gourmet seniors in long term care residences. Jewish Family olds and entering Kindergarteners Service and the (Reading) Manor at Market Square held a Seder for • Phonics and BeginningLiving Reading with Loss more than 30 seniors who appreciated for children entering 1st grade (Reading) the large print and abridged haggadot, • FluencyMondays, Building May for children 10 and 24, 3:00- 4:30 p.m. a daytime setting and a delicious dinner entering 2nd grade (West Lawn) prepared by Boscov’s Ala Carte Catering. • ForFluency more and comprehensioninformation for call Sari at 610-921-0624 Thanks go to our wonderful volunteer children entering 3rd grade (Reading) servers: Don Abramson, Marcia Goodman- • Reading Skills and comprehension FebruaryPage  2013 SHALOMShalomHinnershitz, Laine Heisler, Eddie Kazin, for children entering 4thPageMay & 5th 2010 11 grades Charon Snyder and Gail Tomrell. (West Lawn) JFS Thanks RCOS Second Grade • Speed Reading and Study Skills What happensSeder for seniors at the after Manor at Market Square JewishJewish Family FamilySuzanne Flynn’sServiceServiceDid you second know gradethe Hampton class forInn children Wyomissing entering is 6th- newly 8th grades (West at RCOS is doing a mitzvah project with Lawn) a hospital stay? BerksPage  Area Agency on Aging — an importantrenovated? resource It’s true, when your family comes to town,March 2010 Car donation helps sustain JFSShalomJewish programs Family Service. The group will be • Speed Reading and Study Skills learning about whyhow crowdthe JFS your Food home? Pantry We havefor childrena heated entering indoor pool, 9th – 11th grades Join us for this informative seminar presented by By Sari Incledon largest and most visible program is as services, health information and are recommended, arranged and By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. JFS (and get a tax donation at the sameworks Simon to andcomplimentarycombat VeeVee hunger Scott. hotWe in couldbreakfast, Reading, not run andPesadich(West a good Lawn) desserts. night’s Thanks sleep to on Jeff our Bornstein The Berks a providerJewish of information and Familyreferral screening Serviceprograms and senior centers. monitored through a formal care Thank you to Dave time) call me at 610-921-0624 or go tofeeding the food more bank than without 100 them. families each and •Corinne Speed Wernick for Readingtheir assistance inand County Area services. The trained staff fi elds hundreds The seniorfamous centers Cloud serve 9 asbed. the Did base you plan. also knowThe agencythat we alsowash coordinates our Walker for participating www.charitableautoresources.com. month.On The April group2 JFS sponsoredwill be shoppinga Seder at servingComprehension the meal. Generous Training contributions for Adults, Agency on Aging of calls each week on every subject where meals are packaged and sent out protective services, to safeguard in our car donation Each month our food bank serves more the Manorcomforters at Market Square.and pillows The Manor’s with everymade stay? in memory Wouldn’t of Natalie you wantAdelglass by Thursday, May 20 • 11:30 am isDiscussion an important of addictionthat concerns seniors. important Assistance andis with contributing volunteerto all todrivers the foodfor The pantry Meals and on olderCollege adults Students who are and at forrisk those of abuse, entering program. The proceeds and more people. (In March we served residents were joined by residents of family and friends underwrote the Seder. resource not only available with the following programs:learning Wheels importantyour program. loved mealThe ones agency planninghere with provides andus instead exploitation12th ofgrade. worrying or(West neglect. where Lawn) you’ll at Manor at Market Square from his auctioned car 182 people in 62 households). We could Providence House and Friendship Circle Finally, thanks to the bakers of the forBy JewishSari Incledon, Family M. Ed. PACE,will not propertybe limited taxto issues or rent dealing rebates; withbudgeting otherOthers) volunteer skills. provided opportunities the following forstatistics. those TheForTuition Familyevery and person Caregiver material who feesSupport has vary a by will help support our not provide this important service without seniors. Boscov’s provided a delicious meal, Kesher Zion religious school and Temple ServiceWe invite workers the entire Socialadolescents. Security, Drug Medicare and alcohol and SSI; abuse health is whoAccordingProperty want to towork Tax/Rentfind Dr. with Jayroom? seniors Holder, Rebate With as AppriseMedical the Hampton’s programprogramssubstance 100% offers level.abuse guarantee a variety Familyproblem, of discounts services, several are Some patients require additional programs.community If toyou attend would a dedicateda problem volunteers. for all age Thankgroups, you and to welong- all enjoyedDirector by and all. founderA big thank of youthe toExodus baker Ohebothers Sholom’s are affected. sisterhood Those for providing affected us trying to assist insurance (through the Apprise program). healthApplications insurance volunteers,Availableyou Ready can’t goincludingavailable. wrong. respite For moreand fi nancialinformation assistance call 800- care after their hospital discharge. likeprogram to learn Jewish more Family about timeneed volunteers to know Karen more Sherman about it. and Norman extraordinaireTreatment Center Sheila Bornstein in Miami, for furnishingchemical withmay hamentashen be spouses, that parents, were distributed children, to the community, The agency can provide information Ride Program drivers and as Volunteer to ease the task of providing care for a Planning ahead will make thisService easy is way sponsoring: to help WilikofskyIn a recentand to ourarticle, new volunteers“Overcoming Jan Thereparticipantsdependency is still with time is athe tovast numberapply array for ofone a gourmet rebate secret seniors978-9596.siblings, in longgrandparents term care residences.– all are hurt but for all seniors about long-term care facilities, housingon propertyOmbudsman. taxes or rent Hamptonpaid in 2012. Inn familyWyomissing member.Diabetes Academy things easier for you after you leave. in“What Berks Every County. Family options,Denial” ( Na’amathealth services,Woman Winter recreational 2009/10) in In-homethe Jewish Services community. are Reportedly, provided in Thisdifferent is just ways. a brief What summary can weof some as a The deadline is June 30. Applications are A Diabetes Academy will be held Learn about the services available FoundedNeeds to Knowin 1974, about the B.C.A.A. on activitiesBarbara Traininand more. Blank wrote:Living “Alcohol and with andup to coordinated 50Loss 1800percent Papermill of by patient the Agency populations Road, on Wyomissing,ofcommunal the programs organization PAand services19560 do to that address Area available online at www.revenue.state. Thursday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to noon AgingAlcohol is one and of 52Drug county agencies in chemicalThe Agency dependency of Aging don’t coordinates discriminate, a Agingin some to residentialmeet the needstreatment related610-374-8100 centers to Agencythe problem? on Aging Awareness offers. Moreis an importantin-depth for you or a loved one! PennsylvaniaAbuse & Addiction: responsible An for coordinating wideaffecting range JewsMondays, of servicesand non-Jews and May programsalike, 10 and pa.usand changesare 24,or Jewsby 3:00- calling in– asphysical 4:30 1-888-222-9190.are 20 p.m. percentand emotional of those informationatfirst the step Berks andcan Countybewe foundinvite Ag oneveryone theCenter agency’s in in the Bern Please RSVP by calling 610-373-0800. aInteractive comprehensive Dialogue service system to meet throughoutwomen as muchthe community. as men. Addiction These Thehealthcalling rebate thatnational olderprogram drug citizens hot benefits lines face. (yet Theseeligible Jews websiteTownship.community (www.co.berks.pa.us/aging/) Instructor to share isquestions Vicki Adam, and or RD, thewith needs David of Rotenberg.” older residents. community-basedand alcoholismFor more can programs informationbe found includein everyPennsylvanians call servicescomprise Sari areat less basedage610-921-0624 than 65 on3 and percent need older, and of widows theaccess U.S. byCDE,concerns calling LDN 610-478-6500. at– Diabetes our above Instructor, As always,mentioned TheJFS cost Don Abramson with his mother, Lil. ThisTo programbetter acquaint will be youheld with Wednesday, some of specializedsocioeconomic transportation, and religious noncriminal segment andof beginspopulation). widowers with Chemical agea “needs 50 anddependency assessment” older; is and the socialisprogram $2 perworkers onperson April are 28. available to discuss theApril services 28 at 7 this p.m. agency at the providesJCC. I have legalthe Jewish services, community”. employment counselingpeople conductedthird with leading disabilities by killer a care in theage manager. U.S. 18 andIt is Based alsoolder. an any OurOneissue program inon sevenyour mind. Berksis Youfree, Countianscan though call us has consultedDavid isits the website. executive The directoragency’s of andAn older article worker on programs, the JACS veterans Web onunreported that evaluation, and/or unknown specific contributor services atreservations 610-921-0624. are requested. For more Adolescent Youth Services at Caron site (Jewish Alcoholics, ChemicallyThe to income deaths limitcaused is by $35,000 car accidents, a year heart for beeninformation, diagnosed call Sariwith atdiabetes. 610-921- The Foundation, however his presentation Dependent Persons and Significanthomeowners attacks,What suicides and and $15,000happens strokes. annually after Diabetes0624. Academy is a class given by Did you know the Hampton Inn Wyomissing is newly for renters  and half of social security is a certified Diabetes Educator to help excluded. The maximumVolunteer standard Opportunities rebate you learn Available about managing – diabetes. BERKS renovated?ENCORE It’s PROVIDES true, when your FREE family TAX comes PREPARATION to town, a hospital stay? FREE parking in INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING FROM TRAINED VOLUNTEERS is $650, butJewish supplemental Family Service rebates seeks for volunteersCurriculum to includes help our Diabetes seniors 101 — basic the Berks Encore why crowd your home? We have a heatedLiving indoor pool, withqualifying Joinhomeowners usLoss for thiswith can informative grocery boost rebates shopping seminar diabetes and presented other information errands. by and terminology and parking lot Meals • Housekeeping • Activities • Transportation located at 9th All-Inclusive Monthly Rent • No Buy-ins Wascomplimentary your household hot breakfast, income and less a good than night’s $50,000 sleep Mondays,in on 2009? our toFeb. $975. 4 andIf you 25 have some time, call SariStaying or Carole Healthy at 610-921-0624 — tips for eating. healthy and Court Street. famousHousehold Cloud income9 bed. Did may you be also higher know inthat some we wash cases, our It costs nothing to apply for a rebate. and staying active. Application forms and assistance are To register send your name, address 803 Penn Street • Reading, PA 19601 but call 610-374-3195 for more details.3 - 4:30 p.m. at the JCC 2347_Shalom_update:Layout 1 3/30/10 12:21 PM Page 1 comforters and pillows with every stay? Wouldn’t you want available from the AreaJewish Agency on Family Aging,Thursday, Serviceand phone May thanks number 20 • 11:30 and $2 amfor each person www.manoratmarketsquare.com • 610-373-0800 Call today to schedule an appointmentFor from more now information,until April 15. call Sari at 610-921-0624 your loved ones here with us instead of worrying where you’ll senior centers and stateDr. legislators’ Jeffrey office. Blankattendingat Manor D.D.S. to: at Market Square Diabetes Academy find room? With the Hampton’s 100% guarantee 2013 Summer Reading Programs Some patients require additional Berks Encore, 40 N. Ninth St., 610-374-3195 for providing professional servicesBerks County to our Extension client. Af finityBankPA.com you can’t go wrong. for Children and Adults care after their hospital discharge. Since 2005 Kutztown University’s 1238Planning County ahead Welfare will make Road Hampton Inn Wyomissing Professional and WorkforceEnjoy Tax ServicesBenefits WhileLeesport, Contributing PA 19533-9709 to BERKS ENCORE RECEIVES AWARDS things easier for you after you leave. Evelyn Goodman and volunteer Gail Tomrell Jerry and Elaine Levine 1800 Papermill Road, Wyomissing, PA 19560 Jewish Family Service LearnVehicle about Donation the services Program available Congratulations to Berks610-374-8100 Encore employees Carolyn Krebs for you or a loved one! and Martha Sitler for receiving one of the Social Security Please RSVP by calling 610-373-0800. Administrations highest awards for their providing the public with Call Sari at 610-921-0624,  e-mail [email protected] Sari at Banking information covering Social Security issues. Living with orLoss go to 610-921-0624 BerksValentine’s Encore enables older Celebration adults to achieve a better quality of www.charitableautoresources.com life by providing a comprehensive program of services, referrals, Mondays, May 6 and 20, Chocolate & Wine Tasting or email educationat Manor and at advocacy. Market Square For more information call Berks Encore 3 - 4:30 p.m. [email protected] at the JCC the Way It  Page 10 FREE parking in INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING at 610-374-3195 or visit them at www.Berksencorepa.org Page  the Berks Encore SHALOM FebruaryMay 2011 2010 For moreparking information, lot Meals call • Housekeeping Sari at• Activities 610-921-0624 • Transportation Shalom Tuesday, February 12 located at 9th All-Inclusive Monthly Rent • No Buy-ins and Court Street. 1:00-3:00 pm  The JewishLiving Family with Service803 Penn LossJewish Street Food • Reading, Pantry PA 19601 Family ServiceShould Be. If you have never visited Manor before,  welcomes contributions www.manoratmarketsquare.com of canned • 610-373-0800and dry indulge in a sinfully delicious afternoon Jewish Familyformerly Service Bereavement Taxi Group Program – A lifesaver for many of chocolate treats, samplings from Carfoods, donation paper goods andhelps personal sustain care products. JFS programs Moonlight Winery, LLC, and By Sari Incledon,Mondays, M. Ed. March  !"  #and efficient$ 22,  3:00-%our& program' 4:30 is. p.m.We all know that no longer drive or have a disability. in their homes, and still participate in the entertainment by Bob Long! Many in our our public transportation system in Berks Participants purchase coupon books community, even if they can no longer Wine will be available for purchase. communityFor havemore information callCounty Sari is limited,at 610-921-0624 and that many seniors from JFS. Each book costs $15 and drive. heard of our taxi who have given up driving are not able to provides $60 worth of transportation from We are proud that we provide a RSVP to Nicole or Rick by program but often physically manage a bus. Even BARTA Reading Metro Taxi. Last year 44 people program that successfully helps so calling 610-373-0800. don’t know much
        specialized
transportation  for people with benefitted from this program and took an many people in a very important way.  about it until they temporary or permanent disabilities limits average of 200 rides each month. Most Giving up driving is a very difficult thing  need it. When I its service area. Also BARTA specialized of the rides were for medical purposes to do and sometimes people continue meet people from # $transportation ( use is limited to medical — doctor’s offices, physical therapy, to drive when they are no longer able to other eldercare visits and senior centers. pharmacies and blood tests. Participants drive safely. Our program provides an agencies, either in The JFS program, which is paid for in this program also use their couponsW toYO MalternativeISSING for| R thoseEADI NconsideringG giving  Berks County or by your contributions to our Federation’s go grocery shopping, attendSIN synagogueKING SPR INupG driving.| MUHLENBERG | EXETER  elsewhere, they are! )*  
annual# campaign" !and to the United and JCC programs and the hairdresser. For more information call Sari Incledon 0ENN3TREETs2EADING 0! very impressed with how effective and Way, is a lifesaver for people who can Seniors who use this program can remain or Carole Robinson at 610-921-0624. WWWMANORATMSCOMs610-373-0800 )&+ ,- *  610.898.7700  / 0)* -* 1)#) The Benefi t Bank Did You Know Jewish Family Service: A Jewish Family Service Program • offers discounted taxi transportation!"#$ #%&# to seniors and Find out your eligibility and apply for benefi ts online '&() $)*$)+ with a counselor in a confi dential setting. the disabled? $),-") #%&# '&()$ .-)* $ Food Stamps Medical Benefi ts • has a monthly need-based food pantry? Cash Assistance LIHEAP and more
  To fi nd out if TBB can help you, • offers counseling   and  information   and  referral call Sari or Carole services? at 610-921-0624 
          The Benefit  Bank A Jewish Family Service Program Living with Loss Find out your eligibility and apply for benefits online with a counselor in a confidential setting. Mondays, Feb. 14 and 28, Food Stamps Medical Benefits 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the JCC Cash Assistance LIHEAP and more For more information, call Sari at 610-921-0624 To find out if TBB can help you, call Sari or Carole at 610-921-0624

Enjoy Tax Benefits While Contributing to  Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program AN EVENING WITH DWSV[`Y Call Sari at 610-921-0624, Call Sari at e-mail [email protected] Ek_bZa`kAdUZWefdS 610-921-0624or go to www.charitableautoresources.com Saturday, February 12 or email 6 pm - Reception • 8 pm - Concert education and advocacy. For more information call Berks Encore [email protected] Join us for appetizers and cocktails at Manor at Market Square then board our bus for a short ride down to The Sovereign Performing Arts Center Did you know the Hampton Inn Wyomissing is newly for a Valentine’s pops concert, with renovated? It’s true, when your family comes to town, guest conductor Bradley Thachuk. why crowd your home? We have a heated indoor pool, Tickets: $36.25/person complimentary hot breakfast, and a good night’s sleep on our Originally $59/person famous Cloud 9 bed. Did you also know that we wash our (Orchestra Seats) comforters and pillows with every stay? Wouldn’t you want 6eating is limited. RSVP by February 9. your loved ones here with us instead of worrying where you’ll Call 610-373-0800. find room? With the Hampton’s 100% guarantee you can’t go wrong. FREE parking in the Hampton Inn Wyomissing Berks Encore parking lot located at 9th and 1800 Papermill Road, Wyomissing, PA 19560 Court Streets. 610-374-8100 803 Penn Street • Reading, PA 19601 www.manoratmarketsquare.com • 610-373-0800 SHALOM May 2010 2013 Shalom PagePage 13 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 JFS Taxi Transportation Program $20 ContributionsContributions asas ofof April April 16 19 Holocaust Library & Resource Center $18 DorisHolocaust Levin Library Fund & Resource Center $18 $10 Holocaust Library & Resource Center Doris Levin Fund $10 InUJA-Federation memory of: Campaign Gerber, Judy and Bob Pollack, Barbara and Bernie Fromm In honorAnna Schneiderof: – Rosalye Yashek Dorothy Schlanger – Barbara Nazimov, Al and Betsy Katz SarahElaine Simon’sHafetz – engagement Bruce & Julia – VicSwan, and Debbie Dena HammelGoodman and John Moyer, Dena Michael Clymin (Ellen Abramson’s father) – Susan and Richard D’Angelo andAlma Vic Hammel, and Ed LynnLakin’s and new Dick homeGordon, – RichardVic and &Dena Mindy Hammel, Small, Susan Mildred and &James Ivan Frank Mehringer – Edith Mendelsohn Quaglia,Gordon Bonnie and Dallas Zeiber Jr., Nancy Henrich JFS Taxi Transportation Program SamPat Rosner Goodman’s – Judy engagement Copeland – Alma and Ed Lakin In memory of: Alyse Corbin’s marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin DorisRose Levin Goldrich Fund (Barbara Solowey’s mother) – Rosalye Yashek Sue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer In memoryElaine Hafetz of: – Helene and Henry Singer JewishBirth of Family Selma ServiceCutler’s great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr. Walter Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike In honor of: Moyer RobinsonJewish Cultural Center Birth of Al and Betsy Katz’s grandson – Carol and Gordon Perlmutter Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Debbie Goodman and In memoryShoshana of: Tannenbaum – Carole and Mike Robinson John Moyer Dr. Robert Mellon – Cheryl and Eric Farber, Richard and Mindy Small In memory of: Howard Goodman – Kevin Horowitz Holocaust Library and Resource Center Get well: In memory of: Rose Goldrich (Barbara Solowey’s mother) – Ruth Isenberg, Louise Zeidman, Harry & Rose Sack Fund Harold Leifer – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer Shoshana Tannenbaum – Ken and Mary Holt, George and Sue Viener, Sue Irwin J. Goldstein In memory of: Schlanger,Dr. Robert Gordon Mellon and – Albert Carol and Perlmutter, Nancy Sack Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John Edward Coopersmith – Andy and Corinne Wernick, Carol and Gordon Perlmutter, Deegan, Naum and Lyudmila Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and HeleneEvelyn and Thompson Henry Singer Nursery School Fund In memory of: Marvin Segal, Vic and Dena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & David Pariser (Anne Seltzer’s brother) – Lisa and Ellis Block and family Lakin Early Education Fund Shoshana Tannenbaum – Beth and Bob Caster Ivan Gordon, Carrie & Stephen Latman, Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey Elaine Hafetz – Andy and Corinne Wernick In memory of: Schneider, Norman & Rita Wilikofsky, Audrey Williams, Alan and Esther Strauss, Dorothy Schlanger – Andy and Corinne Wernick Edward Coopersmith – Brian Yaffee Jewish Family Service Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, In honor of: EvelynJohn Castrege Thompson and family, Nursery Michael SchoolGeraci, Maxine Fund & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, FederationBirth of Carol Jewish and Gordon Community Perlmutter’s Campaign new grandson – Sue and George Viener, Laura Higgins In honor of: BetsyIn honor and of: Al Katz Barbara Rosenzwieg receiving the Ruth and Irvin Balis Volunteer Appreciation BatHillary Mitzvah Drezner of andFran Alan Mendelsohn’s Walkow’s marriage granddaughter – Jonathan – Rosalye and Jan Yashek Simon Award – Beth and Bob Caster Paul Levy and Susan Tobey’s marriage – Jonathan and Jan Simon Friendship Circle In memoryJudy Jacobs’ of: birthday – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer Get well: In memory of: ShoshanaBirth of Nancy Tannenbaum Kozloff’s grandson – Jill and – Debbie Gladys Goodman Skaist and John Moyer Harold Leifer – Glenn and Gaye Corbin Elaine Hafetz – Beth and Bob Caster Birth of Betsy and Al Katz’s grandson – Jackye and Jim Barrer GREAT FUTURES GREAT FUTURES HolocaustIn memory of: education spreading inFriendship BerksSTART CircleHERE .County Fund START HERE. Ruth K. Cohn – C. Harold Cohn In honor of: ContinuedRoz Glickman from (NormaPage 5 Nagy’s mother) – Carolalso thatand Berniethe students Gerber are genuinely OnBarbara a wider Rosenzwieg note, receiving there the have Ruth andjustice Irvin and Balis Holocaust Volunteer remembrance Appreciation Award today. silenceEdward is not Coopersmith the reason – whyDena survivors and Vic Hammel, interested Rob in and hearing Yvonne their Oppenheimer stories. I know been– Glenn many and Gaye recent Corbin developments in I am heartened to hear that three additional areCarol invited Greenberg’s in. Instead, mother that – Ellenfactor and is Donmy Abramson students were genuinely interested in HolocaustSam Barrer education and Katie in Bekas’Berks engagementCounty schools – Gaye in and Berks Glenn County Corbin will be offering presentDavid because Pariser (Anneof the immenseSeltzer’s brother)respect – Ellenhearing and Hilde’s Don Abramson story and many still talk and the surrounding areas. Within these courses for their students. studentsLinda Bram’shave for mother these – individuals Jonathan and and Jan about Simon it now, several weeks later. theIn memory past month of: I have met with two Though the fourth quarter of the Elaine Hafetz – Cheryl & Eric Farber, Barbara Nazimov, Rob and Yvonne individualsEdward Coopersmith who are Ain – Barbarathe nprocess nNazimov,u aschool Brianl yearYaffee, has Al andbegun, Betsy there Katz, are Gayle still Annual Oppenheimer, Sue and Herb Wachs, Fran Suknow, Al and Betsy Katz, Susan and Mel ofand developing Mike Kastenbaum, a Holocaust Anzie and course Edward to Golden,many Barbara additional and Steve opportunities Regen, Barbara that Blum, Lillian Abramson, Don and Ellen Abramson, Dr. C. Harold Cohn, Carol and Bernie 2A. Gardner3 23  be offered at rtheird localS thighea kschool. & B remain.urge I rjust spoke to an undergraduate rd Steak & Burger  One gentleman was from Lancaster ethics class at Penn State Berks County. The other, Gerry Evans, is a regardingPUZZLE the ethical/moral SOLUTION implications teacher at Hamburgi Highn School.ne I rof the Holocaust. I found the students inner  have been in contact with two other to be receptive and inquisitive and  Wlocaledn eteachers,sdDay, Pete Ruckelshaus at have been asked to deliver a similar WednesdDay,  Twin Valley and Jim Konecke at Wilson program in the classes that the same  MaHighy 2 2School., 201 Pete3 has resurrected a professor also teaches at Reading Area May 22, 2013 course on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community College.  Valley, and its first offering is during As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, the current fourth quarter. He is very daughter of the late local Holocaust excited about offering this course to survivor Richard Yashek, is speaking at  his students and has even lined up Twin Valley, Hamburg and Fleetwood.  several guest speakers including Rabbi Right now Albright College is hosting Brian Michelson, Kim Yashek and Hilde an exhibit titled, “Stories Among Us: Gernsheimer. Washington State Connections to the Jim Konecke is teaching at Wilson Holocaust, Lessons in Genocide.” The Central Junior High but will be moving up exhibit includes the stories of five Holocaust to Wilson High School at the beginning survivors and one liberator and has Pleofa snexte J oschoolin U syear. He will be offering a received good reviews. It is definitely Please Join Us courseas w eon Nazi Germany. His students worth a visit! It will be at Albright’s Gingrich as we will be studying this period of German Library through May 10. Mazel Tov to Irvinhistory & in depth, Lois including Cohen a study of the *** for being honored by Olivet Boys & Girls“R riseClubo ofo t anti-Semitism, asfo ther 2013 the Champions initial period of of Youth!Jennifer Goss teaches social studies “Root for greathet Holocaustfuture sand” the Final Solution. The in the Fleetwood School District and great futures” Members of the community are invitedlatter part of theto course make will lookreservations at post-war specializes for in Holocaust education. the 23rd Annual Steak & Burger Dinner Wednesday, May 22, beginningPlan for your at 5:00 Bar/Bat p.m. Mitzvah & Wedding Guests! at the Crowne Plaza, Wyomissing, where they will be honored.

The award recognizes the Cohens’ dedication to our community’s children and the arts through their contribution to the PAL Center for the Arts. It was their commitment that inspired this wonderful community arts facility that serves the children of the City of Reading. READING For more information regarding dinner reservations, table sponsorships, program advertising2801 Papermill or Road to recognize the Cohens by sponsoring a child to attend summer camp, call Olivet Boys & Girls Club at 610-373-1314, ext. 215 or visit Wyomissing,their website Pennsylvania www.olivetbgc.org. Deadline for reservations is May 8. GROUP RATES AVAILABLE Since 1898, Olivet Boys & Girls Club has been enabling the youth of Reading and Berks County, especially those in need, to reach their full potential as healthy, productive, caring,Call responsible Alice for citizens.a Site Tour

(610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Page 14 SHALOM May 2013