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

JewishVolume Federation 40 of No.Reading 3 MARCh 2010 Adar-NisanNon-Profit Organization 5770 Jewish Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgINSIDE Reading, PA Change Service RequestedShalom1100 Berkshire Boulevard The Journal 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. TThehe JJournalournal ofof the ReadingIt is hardJewish to believe Community.Community that a year Published Published has gone as as by a a since community community we relocated service service to the by by Jewish the the Jewish Jewish Cultural Federation Federation Center at of1100 of Reading, Reading, Berkshire Pa. Pa. Volume 40 No.Boulevard 5 in Wyomissing. If you haven’tMAY been here,2010 we hope to see you in the very near future.Iyar-Sivan For those of you 5770 who VolumeVolume 47, 40 No. No. 3 5 use the Center regularly or from MARCH ‘timeMAY to time’, 20172010 we always appreciate your visits and encourage ADAR-NISANIyar-Sivan your feedback. 5770 5777 INSIDE And, thank you all for your support throughout the year! ReflectionsINSIDE on Paul D. Cohn, President, Jewish Federation of Reading Cindy Balchunas, Chair, Jewish Cultural Center Committee Passover ShalomTammy K. Mitgang, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Reading/Jewish Cultural Center The Journal of the Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by theRemembering Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa. Page 12 There is no free lunch — or is there? Volume 40 No. 3 MARCh 2010 AlbertAdar-Nisan Boscov 5770 By Paul D. Cohn County Jews have gone to the JCC’s preschool to look at all expenditures, making sure that we FreeINSIDE Jewish Federation president for its excellent learning curriculum.Many timesAlbert Boscovare being will goodbe remembered stewards of as your one contributions. of the most Program at The 2010 Jewish the preschool is a gateway for Jewish families inbeloved We are members making not progress just of the in Readingall areas Jewish of your booksProfiles for in Ellen Azrael, Larry Rotenberg and Hilde Gernsheimer FreeAlvernia Jewish to Federation Jewish Annual 1100Berks Berkshire County, where they can Boulevard meet andcommunity make butFederation. of the entire We regionare now and in beyond.a position Since to focus his Leadershipkids available series Campaign is under way.Photo by Jeremy Drey: Courtesyfriends of with Reading other Eagle Jewish families. In addition, on those programs and services that our booksfocusthrough foron Ellen Azrael, Larry Rotenberg and Hilde Gernsheimer death at the age of 87 in February, tributes have been beginspeace with This campaign is the since the school is open to everyone, it provides community wants and needs. kidsFederation available It’s beenPhoto by Jeremy an Drey: incredible Courtesy of Reading Eagleyear. Hope you’vepouring in from been every city here! where he did business. Betsythrough & Al Katz MakingFederation’s major sure source we nevera diversity forget experience at an early age. But membersHowever of our the community bottom line are is among that wethose are FederationPage 23 of funding,It is hard and toit believehelps that a year has gone• Cultural by since Programs we relocated and Services to the Jewish— The who Culturalasking knew for, him Center and best. need In at honor 1100 your of Berkshirehelp. his tremendous And guess Page 7 support the many important Federation provides many interesting and what? People do need a free meal every so MakingByBoulevard Paul D. Cohn in sureWyomissing. we If andyou never political haven’t context, been forget here,nothing we can hope to see you in theaccomplishments very near future. as a businessman, For those of philanthropist you who programs and services that requested programs and services.Lectures, often. Seniors do enjoy the company and Page 3 Federation Chairman mask the darkest side of human and humanitarian, we have gathered their thoughts and help Jewsuse inthe our Center community regularly and abroad. or from Most ‘time films, to time’,discussion we groups,always and appreciate holiday events your are visits friendship and encourage that our services your feedback.provide. Parents Federations By PaulAs I D. write Cohn andbehavior.Could political context, one view nothing our ability can reminiscences of their time with this remarkable individual. Beautiful of you are not new to the Campaign, And,and are thank just you a few all examples. for your In supportaddition, the throughout Federation theare year! relieved as they drop their preschooler helping Federationthis column Chairman it maskand responsibility the darkest to side “never of forget” human as Look inside for six pages of coverage. musicGuitarist makes accustomed to why this is such an important allocates funds to local synagogues to help off at our school, knowing that their child is in in Haiti is theAs dayI write after behavior.Couldan obligation? Ione think view so. ourNo matterability ReflectionstoCommunity perform on partPaul of your D. Federation.Cohn, President, Others Jewishmay be Federationnew with their of Reading programs. WeCindy offer Balchunas, programs and Chair, excellent Jewish hands. Cultural Jews Center in Israel Committee and around the Guitarist thisyour columnFederation it andhow responsibility hard it is to to recall “never the forget” horrific as Passoverat annual to our community.Tammy Here are K. a Mitgang,few points Executivethat I services Director, that bring Jewish our communityFederation together. of Reading/Jewishworld are gratefulCultural for Center the funding we supply. toShabbat performPage 4 a issponsored the day after our anevents obligation? of the Holocaust,I think so. Nothose matter who meeting would like you to consider: Making a pledge to the Campaign is more at delightannual yourHolocaust Federation howsurvived, hard and it is tothe• recallIsrael generations the and horrific Jewsthat around the world Page 12 — JFS now — Federation has a long and rich history of than the money, at least it should be. It should meetingPage 2 sponsoredRemembrance• Jewish our Family Services eventsfollowed, of the have Holocaust, to remember those who and Page 3 servesTherePurim all age groupsis no funand is free dedicated abounds lunchto helping Israel. — Although throughoutor isour worldthere? is rapidly be your community way of saying that you believe in and Foes of Israel HolocaustDay, which survived,continue andto put the the generations events of that the start Pagecampaign 2 Remembrancemaintaining and strengthening thefollowed, quality havechanging, to remember Israel isand still a young country, and support our local Jewish community. It should wasPurim held kicks at off Saturday, MarchHolocaust 4, with into modern-dayJoin us on Sunday, context. March 12, at 4 p.m. at the Purim Spiel and dinner at RCOS to Expertquestion on Day,ofBy individual Paul which D. Cohn and family life in thecontinue Jewish to putunfortunately,County the Jewsevents have ofsome thegone groups to the JCC’sand countriespreschool beto lookyour at way all expenditures, of saying that making you want sure tothat help we Celebrating theKesher Federation’s Zion Purim MasqueradeSurvivors Party at needJCC to for continue the free tomagic talk show! Stay for carnival Get ready for great food, great fellowship antisemitismnation’s wascommunity.Federation held presidentJFSat runs a monthly foodHolocaust pantry intodofor modern-day itsnot excellent recognize context. learning Israel’s curriculum.Many right to peaceful times PhotoJewsare being byaround Jeremy good the Drey:stewards world. Courtesy It of should your of contributions.Reading be your Eagle way with Ethiopian StokesaySynagogue. Castle. I Thiswant affair to featuring thank heavyabout hors their experiencesfare including and hot educate dogs, popcorn, hamantaschen and great fun! On Saturday, March 11 starting at toProgramlegitimacy be featured at in KesheropenThe to bothZion2010 the JewishJewish and non-JewishSurvivors needcoexistence.the topreschool continue is Givento a gatewaytalk its forchallenges, Jewish families Jews in ofWe saying are making that you progresshave resources in all areasto help of others your CelebratingJews d’oeuvres,Kesher Zion drinks, Synagogue desserts, music for and Jews dancing. and non-Jewsand other alike. treats for a small fee. 6:30 p.m., Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom YashekAlvernia Lecture to Synagogue.communities,Federation Jewish helpingI want Annual all to to thank meet theirabout dietary their experiencesthroughoutBerks County, and the educate where world theyhelp canIsrael meet with and funding make PhotowhoFederation. byare Jeremy less We fortunate, Drey: are nowCourtesy and in aat ofposition times Reading destitute. to Eaglefocus with Ethiopian hostingAll community this event, members as well 21 asand olderJews are around RSVPthe world requested continue to to Brenda: brendas@ is having its Second Annual Purim Spiel. This is focusPage 7on Kesherneeds.Campaign DidZion is you underSynagogue know way. JFS for coordinates Jews and non-Jewsandfriends resources alike.with other so sheJewish can families. remain strongIn addition, and Iton should those be programs your way toand say services you care. that our JewsPagePage 84 invitedthank toDr. join Minna the fun. Bromberg Cocktail attire for is requestedbe victims of anti-Semitism.jfreading.org In or addition, 610-921-0624 by March 10. your last chance to RSVP (by March 3) for this peace hostingtransportationThis campaign this event, for the is elderlyas the well and as infirmed Jews and around vibrant.since the theworld Our school continue funding is open to also to helpseveryone, Jews it providesin other communityFor everyone wants who and hasneeds. already pledged, I andher masksspiritual are leadership. encouraged. Tammy Noelle & JeffIsrael Band faces new andMegillah existing reading, enemies. party at Kesher Zion highly entertaining holiday celebration! Those Page 4 thankprovidesFederation’s Dr. counseling Minna major Bromberg tosource members for of ourbe Jewishvictims of anti-Semitism.countriesa diversity who experience In addition, want to at move an early to Israel, age. or who say However“thank you.” the For bottom those line of you is thatwho arewe stillare ofMitgang Maryland did will an play excellent current andjob classicHowever, hits. with eachKesher passing Zion year Synagoguewe will host a of you who didn’t attend last year’s spiel missed TO OURPage READERS: 2 hercommunity?of funding,spiritual leadership.andIn addition, it helps Tammy JFS provides Israel faces an newhave and• Cultural seriousexisting enemies. needsPrograms in their and own Services country. — The waitingasking tofor, pledge, and need I am your asking help. for Andyour guess help. Holocaust Theof facilitating cost is $40 perthe person afternoon’s or $75 per are couple. losing ourMegillah Holocaust reading survivors followed and by a party Saturday, out on a terrific event. Those of you who came Jewish Family Mitgangoutreachsupport the programdid many an andimportantexcellent acts as ajob clearinghouse However, with Federation eachAs passingI mentioned provides year weabove, many the interestingfunds raised and by Pleasewhat? Peoplepledge donow. need As ayou free have meal previously every so Theeducation Centerpiece session. Please My RSVP thanks immediately also go to toDan 610-921-0624. their families,March along with11, atthe 7 valuable p.m. at the JCC. There will be last year know what to expect, and are probably Service offorprograms facilitatingother agencies and servicesthe inafternoon’s our that area. As economicare losing our Holocausttherequested Campaign survivors programs represent and and the services.Lectures, largest portion of heardoften. meSeniors say, Jewsdo enjoy have thea rich company tradition and of spreadingcanHolocaust be found in in Tannenbaum, Purimcoordinator Carnival of the stories and memorieshamantaschen,drinks, they have to prizes for costumes and wondering how the merry band of RCOS Federations session.conditionshelp Jews My inhave thanks our worsened,community also go to JFSand Dan abroad.has their seen families,Most an thealongfilms, Federation’s with discussion the valuable budget.groups, Lastand yearholiday you events helped are leadingfriendship by thatexample. our services All of us, provide. no matter Parents how theeducation backBerks of this HolocaustJFR is bringingLibrary andsome Resource magic to thispass year’s to future karaoke. generations. Venues players can possibly top last year’s memorable helpingPage 8 Tannenbaum,increaseof you are in notpeople coordinatornew lookingto the Campaign, offor thehelp. stories and areand memoriescontributejust a few they examples. $600,000 have to In to addition, the Campaign. the Federation A few largeare relieved or small asthe they contribution, drop their have preschooler a chance month’sspreading edition in of PurimCenter, Carnival! a partnership Magician between Eddy the Ray willsuch be as on the UnitedAn additionalStates Memorial Megillah reading will take place production. Don’t worry — they will. in Haiti Holocaustaccustomed• Lakin Library Early to why Educationand this Resource is such Center an passimportant – JCC’s to future yearsallocates generations. ago, funds our Venues Campaign to local synagogueswas over $1 million.to help tooff become at our school, leaders. knowing It all adds that up. their All childof us iscan in BerksPage 7 handFederation to keep and kids Albright of all ages College. laughing, Holocaust smiling Museum,Sunday, Marchthe Holocaust 12, at 9:30 a.m., also at the JCC. Instead of a traditional megilla reading in the Shalom Center,preschoolpart of ayour partnership and Federation. kindergarten between Others have the amay longsuch be history asnew the UnitedSowith you their States can programs. seeMemorial that ourWe annual offer Estherprograms campaign Bratt and is changeexcellentLarry theRotenberg hands. world Jews withfor thegrandchildren in Israelbetter. and Talya around and the Eli andI enjoyingalso want themselves to thank to his Hilde magic. CenterHis show at Albright,Hamantaschen the Anne andFrank drinks will be served. sanctuary, the RCOS Purim Spiel will be held in PagePage 74 Federationofto providingour community. and quality Albright Here education College.are a few in apoints Holocaustnurturing, that I Museum,moreservices important the that Holocaust bring than our ever. community The Federation together. has worldFree are lunch…I grateful don’t for the think funding so. It weis worth supply. its isGernsheimer, packed full of Ellencomedy, Azrael audience and interaction,House in Amsterdam,Please and RSVP the Yad to 610-374-1763Esther Bratt or theLarry Temple Rotenberg social with hall. grandchildren After an Italian Talya dinner,and Eli positivewouldI also like environment. wantyou to toconsider: thankMany generations Hilde Center of Berks at Albright,taken• Israel thesteps Anne toand help Frank Jews reduce around our expenses the world and weightMaking in gold. a pledge to the Campaign is more JEWISH amazingLarry Rotenberg magic and for pure sharing FUN! their Vashem Holocaustkzsecretary@entermailnet. memorial in Israel Continued on Page 4 Gernsheimer,• Jewish FamilyEllen Azrael Services and — HouseJFS now in Amsterdam, — Federation and the has Yad a long and rich history of than the money, at least it should be. It should FAMILYFoes of SERVICE: Israel personalserves all stories. age groupsEach story and had is itsdedicated serve as to valuablehelping educational Israel. Although and our world is rapidly be your way of saying that you believe in and Jewish Family Larryown senseRotenberg of sadness, for sharing fear and their (at Vashemhistorical Holocaust repositories. memorial in Israel startEvent campaign to offer maintaining and strengthening the quality changing, Israel is still a young country, and support our local Jewish community. It should Service personaltimes) renewed stories. Eachhope storyand resolve. had its serveAll as of valuableus have aeducational responsibility and to Jewishtoinformation question Family on ownMeirof individual sense of sadness, Panimand family fear andlife (at into thehistorical Jewishrun repositories. unfortunately, Israel’s some groupsFood and countries Security be your way ofInitiative saying that you want to help Still,community. it was difficult JFS runs to listen a monthly to and food “never pantry forget” do and not to standrecognize up for ourIsrael’s right to peaceful Jews around the world. It should be your way nation’sService times)Meir renewed Panim, hope and a resolve.relief programAll of us distributeshave a responsibility prepaid to According to Nissim basket will include essentials cancerPage genetics 6 in comprehendopen to both their the stories. Jewish If anyone and non-Jewish rights and beliefscoexistence. as Jews. We Given must its challenges, Jews of saying that you have resources to help others legitimacy Still,organization it was difficult that providesto listen to food and “neverfood forget”shopping and to stand cards up for that our Almakayes, director of Meir such as bread, oil, sugar, the Jewish family hascommunities, any doubt helping about allthe to Jewish meet their continue dietary to educatethroughout those the who world do help Israel with funding who are less fortunate, and at times destitute. Page 6 comprehendand services their to stories.Israel’s If poor,anyone is rightscan andbe usedbeliefs asin Jews.many We major must Panim’s Dimona branch, fruits, vegetables and other Page 7 people’sneeds. Didwill toyou survive, know one JFS only coordinates not believe inand the resourcesHolocaust orso whoshe can remain strong and It should be your way to say you care. Page 14 hasabout any to doubt embark about on theone Jewish of its continuesupermarket to educate chains those as who well do the Food Security Initiative necessities. needstransportation to study for the the Holocaust. elderly and infirmedattempt andto twist vibrant. the truth Ourof what funding actually also helps Jews in other For everyone who has already pledged, I people’smost important will to survive,projects toone date. only It notas believefood and in the fruit Holocaust baskets or onwho a will help several hundred Meir Panim maintains six providesAlthough counseling one can to membersstudy the of ourhappened. Jewish Again,countries a special who thank want you to move to Israel, or who say “thank you.” For those of you who are still needshas been to study awarded the Holocaust. a government attemptbimonthly to twist basis the truth to of thosewhat actually who residentsTrudy Katz and of Ellen the Azrael struggling David,branches Larry and in Alisonmajor Rotenberg cities around eventscommunity? leading upIn theaddition, Holocaust JFS and provides to Hilde, an Ellen andhave Larry serious for sharing needs their in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. fundedtry Althoughto put theseprogram one events can called into study historical Food the happened.need.thoughts and Again, memories a special with thank us. you development towns of Dimona the country. While the Food Jewish Family outreach program and acts as a clearinghouse As I mentioned above,Trudy the Katz funds and raised EllenPhotos Azrael by by PleaseBarbara pledgeNazimov now. except As as you noted have previously eventsSecurity leading Initiative, up the Holocaustwhich began and to Hilde,The Ellen goal and Larryof the for sharingprogram their and neighboring YeruchumDavid, Security Larry and Initiative Alison Rotenberg is funded by Service for other agencies in our area. As economic the Campaign represent the largest portion of heard me say, Jews have a rich tradition of tryin toFebruary put these in events the southern into historical town thoughtsis to bring and memories a sense with ofus. food acquire foodPhotos in a by dignified Barbara Nazimov the exceptgovernment, as noted Meir Panim conditions have worsened, JFS has seen an the Federation’s budget. Last year you helped leading by example. All of us, no matter how 2010 totals of Dimona. security to people who often manner. generally relies on donations Page 8 increaseYashek in people lecturelooking for help. to focuscontribute on $600,000 France to the Campaign. A few large or small the contribution, have a chance as of Feb. 19 According to a recent wonder where their next meal Almakayes explained that to provide poor people the help • Lakin Early Education Center – JCC’s years ago, our Campaign was over $1 million. to become leaders. It all adds up. All of us can reportYashek by the Organizationlecture towill focuscome from. on Over France the people registered for the Food they need. Before the Food preschoolThis andyear’s kindergarten Richard have J. Yashek a long historyefforts So to youbetter can understand see that our these annual campaign is change the world for the better. Jewish for Economic Cooperation course of the year, each family Security Initiative will be able Security Initiative, Meir Panim of lectureproviding will quality be held education Thursday, in aMay nurturing, terrible more events important actually than accomplished ever. The Federation has Free lunch…I don’t think so. It is worth its Community and ThisDevelopment year’s Richard (OECD), J. Yashek will receiveefforts aboutto better $1,700 understand worth tothese come to the Meir Panim had already distributed over positive6, at environment.8 p.m. in Memorial Many generations Chapel at of Berkstheir aims?taken stepsOr have to help they reduce actually our expenses and weight in gold. Campaign morelectureAlbright Israeli’s will College. be are held The living Thursday, speaker below will May ofbe food. terribledistorted events historical actually understanding accomplishedDimona branch every other 100,000 food baskets to needy $110,708 the6,Richard atpoverty 8 p.m. J. Golsan, linein Memorial than Ph.D., in aChapel anyprofessor at Intheir andthe aims?challengedmid-1990’s, Or have the Israel’s theynotion actually weekof the and receive a prepaid families throughout Israel. 20172010 totals otherAlbrightof French member College. at Texas country. The A&M speaker ThisUniversity. will bepoverty distorteduniqueness rate was historical of just the Holocaustabove understanding 14 as foodwell as shopping card worth Some of their other programs asas of Feb.April 1619 meansRichardHe is thethat J. Golsan, author for hundreds Ph.D.,or editor a professor ofof morepercent. andthe terriblechallengedIt has singularitysince the risen ofnotion the to fate ofabout ofthe its $70. The card looks like a include the daily serving of 2010 totals thousandsofthan French a dozen ofat workingTexas books. A&M He Israelis, hasUniversity. been a astaggering uniquenessvictims? This21 of percent.lecturethe Holocaust will One explore as wellstandard these as credit card in order to meals at their restaurant-style as ofJewish April 19 theirHevisiting is salaries the professor author are orat oftentheeditor Sorbonne notof more of in thetheissues contributing terrible through singularity a factorsdiscussion of the is fate of avoidrecent of its potential embarrassment soup kitchens and running JewishCommunity Community enoughthanParis, a where dozento feed hebooks. theirtaught Hefamilies. courses has been on the a drasticvictims?works ofrise This literature oflecture food and will prices filmexplore as to thesewell its as recipients who do not after-school programs for CampaignCampaignJewish visitingmemoryThe Food professor of WorldSecurity at War the Initiative SorbonneII in postwar overin issues thethe 1990’s past through trialstwo a ofdiscussiondecades. French citizens of recentwant on to advertise that they are needy children. Community Paris, where he taught courses on the works of literature and film as well as $192,030 is Frencha joint literature effort between and culture. Meir Overcharges that same of crimes period, against the humanity accepting for charity. Meir Panim’s efforts are Campaign$273,000 Panim,memoryFor Leket moreof World Israel than War andthree II Eshelin decadespostwar average thecomplicity 1990’s salary trialsin has the of Finalremained French Solution. citizens Inon addition to the shopping supported by local dollars *Includes transfers from Yerushalayim.FrenchFrance literature has been It and is preoccupied designedculture. withrelatively chargesThe stable, oflecture crimes creating is against held in humanityan memory card, for of people will receive through the Israel Now Donor$273,000 Advised Funds totraumatic helpFor morefeed moments needythan three andfamilies eventsdecades increaseof complicityRichard in theJ. inYashek, percentagethe Final a Holocaust Solution. of survivora basket of nutritious food campaign of the Jewish inFranceits the recent Jewishhas past. been State. Butpreoccupied have The national withworking andThe poor.longtime lecture Berks is held County in memory resident.for oftheir home. This food Federation of Reading. traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivor 2010 totals its recent past. But have national and longtime Berks County resident. as of Feb. 19 Jewish Community Campaign $110,708 Page 2 SHALOM March 2017 Creating your Jewish legacy By Richard Nassau make a statement about their values, charitable goals. organizations. Development Director the times, or their legacy and hopes Consider joining with others in our I’m not sure my children always My good friend has for you? community who have signed a Letter listen to me. They have heard and know multiple generations My friend’s reply motivated me to of Intent. Creating your Jewish legacy how important our Jewish community of his family stored do a little research. I started digging is a loud and clear statement you can is to me. They also know I’ve taken in his phone. Not around and did find a few skeletons, no make today about the future and the actions through my will to express my just the standard surprise. What I also rediscovered was importance of the Jewish community. It is Jewish values. It is statement future pictures of his kids, my grandfather, who I never considered a statement that will be heard by children, generations will also hear. but the results of to be “religious” however you interpret grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Think back one last time to your his research into his that word, led and founded a synagogue The values of your grandparents grandparent and others in your family family’s genealogy. where one had never existed. and other family members were many tree. It is thanks to their foresight I saw photos and What a statement that is. Conveying times expressed through their actions. and other family members in past charts and pictures of his long-ago values through actions crosses The choices they made, many times generations that we are able to have a relatives. I heard stories of visits to generations. in a Jewish context, were statements vibrant and strong Jewish community cemeteries and libraries and homes of Last year, I along with 17 others, about their hopes for you and the future, here in Berks County. A community distant cousins. He is a good storyteller, chose to make a statement through our and the importance of belonging to a in which I promise you they looked and it was good to be with him as he actions. Each of us chose to participate community. ahead. Their hopes can be seen today now lives in the Midwest. However, it in the Create a Jewish Legacy program. Jewish tradition asks us to tell when we come together to celebrate was his reply to my question of how Each of us signed a Letter of Intent the story of the man who plants a our heritage and traditions and when his grandparents met that really caught indicating our desire to leave a legacy for tree knowing the fruit would only be we support each other at those times my attention. He simply said without the Jewish community. The Letter, while there for future generations. When when it is most needed. background or lengthy story, “B’nai not binding, is a statement of values. we create a Jewish legacy, we are Please consider creating your Brith.” It is important to remember that securing a future Jewish community Jewish legacy. What a statement that is. Think for a signing a Letter of Intent or creating a with flourishing programs. A community To learn more about creating your moment about how your grandparents Jewish legacy is not done apart from with the resources to provide for Jewish legacy, contact me at richardn@ met and how about your great- your family. You can create your legacy future needs — emergencies, new jfreading.org or call Jewish Federation grandparents? Is it a simple story? Is in ways that will meet all the needs of initiatives and services. Jewish legacies of Reading 610-921-0624 to arrange a there a Jewish component? Does it your family and still accomplish your benefit synagogues, programs, and confidential discussion. Program focuses on Jewish risk of breast, ovarian cancer

On Sunday April 2, the Jewish longer identifies with the Jewish Federation Maimonides Society will community. Maimonides Society presents: present a program for health care Rosen’s professional experience professionals, What’s Jewish About includes informal education, What’s Jewish About Breast Cancer Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer. advocacy and community outreach. The program features Melissa K. Her work includes facilitating and Ovarian Cancer Rosen from Sharsheret and is connections among organizations being co-sponsored by the McGlinn in the American Jewish community. Free and open to all healthcare professionals. Cancer Institute of Reading Health She also oversees outreach efforts System and Breast Cancer Support throughout the country, connecting Sunday April 2, 10:30 am Services of Berks County. as many as possible to the support Penn State Berks Campus The program begins at 10:30 am and resources of Sharsheret. 2080 Tulpehocken Riad, Spring Township on the Penn State Berks campus. As a breast cancer survivor, she There is no cost, but preregistration is passionate about the Jewish Preregistration is required. is required. community and cancer support and Register online www.readingjewishcommunity.org The program is an opportunity for advocacy. health care professionals to learn The Maimonides Society of Or call Brenda at 610-921-0624 about the issues and concerns of the Jewish Federation of Reading Or by email to [email protected] Jewish women and families facing sponsors programs for the community breast cancer and ovarian cancer. and Society members throughout The hourlong program will cover the year. Led by Dr. David Sacks, topics that include cultural issues, the Society brings together Jewish community and privacy concerns, medical professionals who continue genetic concerns and the unique the tradition of tikkun olam – healing EnGage challenges faced by single and the world. Members of Reading’s married women. Maimonides Society integrate Ashkenazi Jews have a 10 times Jewish values with community higher rate of mutations that increase medical needs helping to improve in new friendships. the risk of breast and ovarian cancer the lives of people here at home, in in women. These mutations also Israel and around the world. increase a man’s risk of developing Sharsheret, Hebrew for breast and prostate cancer. Recent “chain”, is a national not-for- studies show that Sephardic Jews profit organization that supports may also be genetically predisposed young women and families, of all to hereditary breast and ovarian Jewish backgrounds, facing breast cancer. The hereditary risk is in cancer, at every stage – before, no way diminished if a person no during and after diagnosis.

WYOMISSING OPTOMETRIC CENTER The Best Care In Sight! 24/7 Medical Eye Emergencies Refractive Surgery Co­management Comprehensive Vision Care Glenn S. Corbin, OD Vision Therapy/Orthoptics Post Concussion Syndrome Low Vision Rehabilitation Kerry J. Burrell, OD Specialty Contact Lenses Color Blindness Glasses Karen L. Heaney, OD Diabetic Retinopathy Macular Degeneration Heidi L. Sensenig, OD, MS Pediatric Eye Care Routine Eye Care Michael D. Burkhart, OD Contact Lenses Glaucoma Optical Services Amanda S. Legge, OD Cataracts Orthokeratology Perry C. Umlauf, OD Infection Allergy wyo-opto.com Dry Eye

WYOMISSING DOUGLASSVILLE MYERSTOWN 610-775-2300 50 Berkshire Court 1050 Benjamin Franklin Hwy. W. 356 West Main Avenue 2000 Cambridge Ave. Wyomissing, PA 19610 Douglassville, PA 19518 Myerstown, PA 17067 Phone: 610­374­3134 Phone: 610­385­4333 Wyomissing Phone: 717­866­1400 At The Highlands

TheHighlands.org A member of Reading Health System October 2012 SHALOM Page 3 March 2017 SHALOM Page 3 LookingFrom the President’s forward Desk 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 Chairman expenses and many other aspects of getting Meir Panim, which we support through TheI want to takeimportance this those less fortunateof aback strongon their feet. your contributions.community Yemin Orde is a youth Berks County Living magazine featuring a special timeBy Williamto wish all D. of Franklin you a Our But ܁nance the importance committee hasand beenvalue working of villagepresent. in the A Carmelsweet mountainsand most near touching Haifa This is why community building veryPresident Happy and Sweet overtimecommunity ensuring was thatreinforced our funds by are Rabbi well whichmoment caters was to whenyouth inRabbi need, Lipsker’sproviding is suchsupplement an important produced Jewish by the value. NewI Year.just returned caredLipsker and and accounted his father. for. I also want to themson Ari,with seeingshelter, hisemotional father’s support pain and It isJewish the reasonFederation we haveof Reading. survived fromAs Brooklynwe enter intohaving the recognizeOn Friday Tammy morning, Mitgang at and his her father’s entire ananxiety, excellent came education. over, gaveMeir Panim him a is, hug for for over 3,000 years of violence Newvisited Year, family we reflect and Federation/JCChospital bedside, staff who Rabbi work Lipskertirelessly theand lack sat ofwith a better him. description, similar to andSpecial anti-Semitism. thanks to CampaignIt is why we onmaking what a Shiva we callhave to forasked you. what he should do. His heart whatRabbi we would Lipsker call a soup rushed kitchen back but with to workCo-Chairs hard, here Howard in Reading, & Victoria to have accomplished this past As we enter the New Year, I am happy to a different concept. Here those in need can Rabbi Lipsker and his and mind were torn- he wanted to Brooklyn late Saturday evening and programsHafetz thatfor spearheading attract, educate the and yearfamily. and The what presence challenges lie ahead for us announcestay with that his we father have buta Mission also wantedto Israel getwas hot able meals to that have are SERVEDfour days to them,with nothis enhance Jewish life in the Reading inof thea caring coming community year. Your Federation has thisto monthbe at inour conjunction Community with the Shabbat. Allentown cafeteriafather before style as he here died. in the Thus, States, the so Shiva that community.project, which raised $19,200 for providedat his parents’ many interesting home programs and Federation.His father, With Rabbi the numbers Eliyahu participating, Lipsker, theycall. don’t In Brooklyn,feel like they Rabbiare getting Lipsker a handout. was Federation!Please join See us Page in the 7 for month a list of speakersreinforced this thepast valueyear. We have attended thistold should him bethat a veryit was worthwhile important Mission. to Insurrounded addition, Meir by Panimfamily servesand friends. thousands His Marchof atadvertisers our Purim and party, patrons. our ‘Right toand those meaning less fortunate, of maintainedthe Community our state Theyreturn will to be Reading visiting many and sites help and lead meeting our ofother hot mealscommunity to schoolchildren had come throughout together vs. Left’ debate, the movie “The certi܁edShabbat Nurserywe had celebratedSchool. We the completed withCommunity some well-known Shabbat. names Our Rabbi in Israel did Israelto comfort and maintains and support a Goodwill-like him in his facility time SturgeonLook for Queens” it at local and retailers the Yashek and aweekend very successful before. Gratz College program politicsso and and led military. services I feel Friday certain thatevening, many toof help need. furnish Within clothing a week, and furniture it was strikingto those Lecture on antisemitism. We continue for our teenagers and a wonderful senior if not all of them will return with a better in need. For both of these organizations and libraries and at the Berks Encore On one level, the gathering of more Saturday morning and ended with a to observe one community coming toSenior invest Expo in nurturing Oct. 23 andat BodyZone. developing program.than 150 Our people Jewish Familyfrom RCOS,KZ,Service has understandingTu B’Shevat ofSeder Israel and— notits positionknowing in Jewstogether throughout to celebrate the world who Shabbat receive yourand the Jewishness of our community. againChabad, done college a wonderful students job helping and seniors those thethe worldcondition and the of Middlehis father. East. They will support,Tu B’Shevat I thank and you. another, caring and Join us also as our community Fromto pray, the sing, President’s eat and talk together Desk was Yet he joined us singing, schmoozing consoling, at one of the life’s saddest remembers Albert Boscov’s great a wonderful shared community event. and connecting with all who were moments. life. Being Alma BySinging Tammy K. Mitgang was highlightEast troubled her, and she knewof that Community ground in Ethiopia — the Jewish Shabbat Agency bears their name, and as the ܁rst female President life for Israel — though it is a ܁rst-­world for Israel and the American Jewish Joint President of the Jewish Federation of ByAlma Amanda Lakin J. would Hornberger be economy like the USA, was dif܁cult and Distribution Committee (JDC) — feared Reading, she and Dan Tannenbaum, the Reflecting ܁rst to backpooh-­pooh on this year’s complicated. for the Ethiopian Jewish community’s an executive director of the Federation, anyCommunity notion Shabbat,that she I think of singing. When I interviewed her for a video safety when rebel forces threatened brokered a partnership with her alma wasFrom amazing, the fabulous special voices of White that recognized her and her husband, to overrun Mengistu Haile-Mariam’s mater, Albright College, that would orShabbas, that she whoinspired led the service with their Ed’s community service and the Commmunist government. establish the Holocaust Library and extraordinarysinging and then in others. continued singing for the establishment of the Holocaust Library What followed was one of the most Resource Center on the campus. Petite,crowd duringbig hearted dinner, and to the sweet voices and Resource Center at Albright College, dramatic rescue operations in Israel’s Being Alma meant tireless service deliberate,of our youngest time spent community members she did not talk about her efforts to raise history. Over 34 hours and four minutes, and no fanfare — certainly no pictures withfrom Almathe Lakin was Preschool, never voices raised money and resettle Soviet Jews in our 34 Israeli cargo and passenger planes if she was expected to be in them. aboutin song her. were heard all evening. community. Instead, she spoke of how worked around the clock, airlifting 14,310 Accolades were not her style; but she SheDespite cared the aboutsnow on others the ground, — strangers, the thrilled she was to meet with Natan and Ethiopian Jews to Israel from Addis was not without opinion — thoughtful familyChabad and Center friends. was And beautiful she worked in green to Avital Sharanksy — refuseniks who at Ababa. Alma would have beamed having and at times, determined. But, no matter improvewith fresh the fruit world as the — centerpieces. here at home, A in extraordinary personal risk and sacri܁ce heard MK Sholomo Molla’s incredible life what she put her efforts behind, you could Israelspecial and fruit around display the withworld. dessert When wasyou helped to spark and later ignite a global story that he credits to the work of the be sure that she was right by your side, wereanother with highlight, Alma, it sincewas all the about dinner you, was it movement to free Soviet Jewry. Between Federation system that saved his life. working hand in hand with you and others washeld youon Erevwho Tuwere B’Shevat. front and The center crowd and of 1990 and 1997, Federation’s Operation (see page 5) to do great things. mademore thanto feel 150 special. people enjoyed the event, Exodus campaign nationally raised $1 Alma shared her excitement and pride Alma considered herself privileged withAlma most believed staying that late we arein the responsible evening billion to rapidly rescue and resettle more that helped to raise nearly $1 million to have enjoyed so much of life. One of forenjoying each other conversations according andto the songs! principles than one million Soviet Jews in Israel and locally toward the capital campaign that her favorite memories was crossing over of chesedSpecial thanks(caring to and Chabad compassion), for hosting North America. PS – Alma marched with would build the U.S. Holocaust Memorial into Jordan when the borders with Israel Torahthe community (Jewish learning), and Rabbi tikkun Yosef olam and others in our community on the National Museum in Washington, America’s were reopened. “To think, she would (repairingChana Lipsker the word) for and their tzedakah hard work (social in Mall in Washington during one of the national institution for the documentation, reminisce; “that we along with other justice).preparing And for her the life event. was an embodiment largest marches in American history. That study andPhotos interpretation taken before theof CommunityHolocaust Shabbat Federation capture mission-goers, the beauty of the met decorations. 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.” She believed in the bold collective movement. raindrops and tears that fell the night of Her family was her heart. She ofYemin Federation and Orde knew that together working She spoke to about spread the unity of the itsits dedication successful as she, Ed and others from Village considered aWay better world, her we could mobilize ܁nancial and social Jewish world that resulted in the our community donned their construction responsibility and life — a special reward. resourcesIn 2006, Israel’sthat could Ministry rescue of Education Jews, Operationand training Solomon through rescue its Derechmission Kfarthat hats and toured the vast and important I think those of us who knew Alma were strengthenurged Yemin the Orde Jewish Youth people Village and to took(Village place Way) in May Educational 1991. The Institutestate of structure. the truly the fortunate ones. literally,expand changeits unique the and world. successful circle Israel,are widely together praised with Jewishthroughout Federation Israel At home in Berks County, the JCC’s Alma Lakin passed away Aug. 27 at of careThe ongoingto thousands turbulence of other in the youth Middle at- ofas North a model America’s of educational major partners excellence. on the Lakin Early Education Center preschool the age of 82. risk throughout Israel and, consequently, Its methodologies are integrated into Yemin Orde’s Village Way Educational university-level education courses and Initiatives was launched. The Initiatives in Israel’s public school system, including Federationdirectly impact Israel’s struggling mission youth schools in the to Israeli-Arab Israel communities. begins Oct. 21 village populations by providing teacher The Village Way is working with 26 A joint mission composed of chaired by Michael and Susan Fromm and Berks County will be joining the group purpose and heightened appreciation training, workshops, interventions and educational communities in Israel — 10 community members from the Reading Victor and Dena Hammel. In addition to on the mission. and connection to Jewish identity. other special programs. Its innovative Ministry of Education youth villages; 13 area and the Lehigh Valley will leave for Mitgang, Jayne Kleinman, Cultural Center The Reading Jewish community has Mission participants will visit Reading’s “Village Way” methodologies are public high schools; and three Ministry of Israel Oct. 21. program director and Mark Goldstein, bene܁ted from teaming with the seasoned Israel Now projects — two important designed to enhance the spiritual well- Welfare therapeutic residential schools For the Reading community, it is the Executive Director of Jewish Federation of mission-goers from the Allentown area humanitarian efforts that both save being, character development and The Village Way Educational Initiatives ܁rst mission the Federation has ledin the Lehigh Valley will staff the mission. and Lehigh Valley Federation’s “well- and change lives — Yemin Orde Youth leadership potential of first-generation also launched two pre-military leadership more than 15 years. A goal of Federation Rabbi Brian Michelson from oiled” mission process. Village in the Carmel Mountains and Meir Israelis who come from poverty-stricken programs for immigrant youth. President Tammy Mitgang and Federation Congregation Oheb Sholom and Rabbi “Mark Goldstein and his staff have Panim’s new nutrition center in Kiryat families and broken homes. Since beginning the program, the leadership, the Reading mission is co- Yosef Lipsker, Chabad-Lubavitch of created over the years a network of Gat, where the community will dedicate The Village Way’s resources Village Way has reached more than 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 Federation of North America’s warm, nutritious meals for thousands of Phone: 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 Phone: 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 Missions9,650 children Department and 1,320 and staff its members. staff in childrenlife skills and tool families in theory every and day. in practice Web site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Web site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org IsraelTwo along leading with Kenescolleges Tours in willIsrael further are in aAt variety Yemin Orde,of settings. the group is anxious to ensure that each and every day of the see ܁rsthand the progress that has been Jewish Federation of Reading teaching the Village Way methodology Village Way leadership is pursuing Jewish Federation of Reading mission is maximized. made at the village since the wild܁res Chairman: Alvin Katz in undergraduate and graduate degree the possibility of working with an entire Chairman: Haia Mazuz Federation missions are travel devastated it in 2010. President: Tammy K. Mitgang programs. Outside Israel, the Village Way town’s education system (1,200 children) President: William D. Franklin experiences unlike any other. Along The group is honored that Chaim Peri, Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor has assisted and inspired other projects and is working with a public high school Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor with visits to historic and sacred sites, beloved educator and director of Yemin Proofreaders: Esther Strauss & Federation staff for at-risk children in such diverse places in an Israeli-Arab community. Village Way Proofreaders: Federation staff museums and popular tourist destinations, Orde for 30 years, will personally be hosting Member: American Jewish Press Association as Rwanda and San Diego. Educational Initiatives is an independent Member: American Jewish Press Association Federation missions provide exclusive, the group during a tour and lunch. The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading Yemin Orde’s Village Way entity supported through the fundraising The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading insiderEducational access Initiativesto residents, is communityready for effortsYoung of Friendspeople from of Yemin the village Orde. will join Deadline for the November issue is Oct. 5 leaders,the next areaphase experts, of its expansion. and political Its the Meirgroup Panim for the is tour supported and share by localtheir Next deadline, March 5 personalitiesmethodology and has provide proved a senseitself anof experiences.dollars through the Jewish Federation of effective and relevant educational and Reading’s Israel Now campaign. Page 4 SHALOM March 2017 Reading Jewish Film Series continues into spring By Amanda J. Hornberger Both Arab and Jewish women frequent religious. All over the country, he discusses The Reading Jewish Film Series the salon and chat with the director (who traditions, ingredients, the origins, and the continues with the charming feel-good is shampooing their hair!) about politics future of Israeli cuisine. documentary “The Sturgeon Queens,” and love. After the screening of the two films, about the family behind the counter of Russ Second in the double feature, the there will be a facilitated discussion & Daughters in New York. The film traces American documentary “In Search of Israeli featuring members of the Islamic and four generations of Russ family history Cuisine” will play. The film is a portrait of Jewish communities. “Women in Sink” and to learn the delicious story of the famed the Israeli people told through food. The “In Search of Israeli Cuisine” will be shown lox and herring emporium on the Lower film’s chef/guide is Michael Solomonov, a on Wednesday, April 5, at 6:30 p.m. at East Side. “The Sturgeon Queens” will James Beard Award winning chef and co- FOX EAST, 4350 Perkiomen Ave., Exeter be shown on Wednesday, March 1, at 7 owner of acclaimed Zahav in Philadelphia. Township (next to Boscov’s East). p.m. at FOX EAST, 4350 Perkiomen Ave., The filmmakers follow Mike into hot The 2017 Reading Jewish Film Series Exeter Township, (next to Boscov’s East). restaurants and home kitchens, wineries is co-sponsored by the Rubin Educational On April 5, we’ll present a double and cheese makers, street food vendors Fund of the Jewish Federation of Reading feature in conjunction with the Islamic and markets. The food traditions are and Fox Theatres. Admission is $5 per series tickets can be bought at the JCC. Center of Reading. We’ll begin with the incredible diverse — Moroccan, Persian, film. All films will be shown on Wednesday Cash and checks are accepted. documentary short “Women in Sink,” a Lebanese, French, Italian, and Russian; evenings at 7 p.m. at FOX EAST. Tickets The final flim in this year’s series will be British-Israeli film set over the washing Jewish, Arab, Palestinian, Christian, and can be purchased at the theater beginning “Apples from the Desert,” to be screened basin of a little Arab hair salon in Haifa. Druze, kosher and non-kosher, secular and at 6:30 p.m. the day of the screening, and May 17. ESCAPE: Spring art exhibit at the JCC opens March 9

By Amanda J. Hornberger scene, with nature and people as her around us. Perhaps it will bring of your mind. Escape with me.” This spring ESCAPE at a new favorite subjects. you closer to a place you haven’t Join us for the art opening for art exhibit at the JCC featuring Alita describes her show: “As I yet been —Italy, Spain, The Grand ESCAPE on Thursday, March 9, paintings by Alita Abruzzese. An paint I get involved in my artwork. Canyon, Newfoundland, or even a from 5 to 7 p.m. at the JCC. Light art teacher for more than 20 years I escape the worries of my world place around the corner. Perhaps it refreshments will be served. The Alita gained inspiration from the for the moment. My hope is that by will bring you to a place in the corner exhibit will run through May 26. children and their fresh look at interacting with my artwork it also the world. Although her artwork is helps you to escape into a different mostly representational, she does world — a world of landscapes and Woman with local ties killed in crash not just copy what she sees. Her seascapes that remind you of happy Susan Hollingshead, my special and one sister. She was predeceased goal is to capture the mood in each times, calmer times, and the beauty and very beloved daughter-in-law by her husband, James Mendelsohn. was killed in an auto accident on the Memorial contributions may be made Florida Turnpike Feb. 1. She was to the Jewish Family Service, P.O. Box Honoring Israel’s soldiers driving and she was alone. Susan was 14925, Reading PA 19612 or a charity 64. She is survived by her son Daniel of your choice. Hollingshead, her mother, two brothers —Edith Mendelsohn Members of the Obituary Chairman for many years. After kindergarten retirement he worked for the Literacy class at Lakin Theodore Aarons, 96, formerly of Council of Berks County for more than Preschool wrote Wyomissing. Theodore was a veteran 20 years. Theodore is survived by his letters to be of World War II, serving in the Army wife, Annalee, and his children: son delivered in Purim Air Corps. He was vice president of Louis and his wife, Connie Aarons, of baskets to Israeli Thomas Body Parts until his retirement Sinking Spring; and daughter Susan soldiers. Here in 1985, he also served as Treasurer Herlinger of Philadelphia. Other student Samuel of Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom survivors include his two grandchildren Weiss displays his and was its Cemetery Committee and one nephew. handiwork

with OptionLine, our PURIM Home Equity Line of Credit Continued from Page 1 around 40 minutes. After that, of course, the audience will be treated to a hysterical comes hamantashen. Since many people musical comedy retelling of the Book of will be coming with young children, we’re Esther. Written and directed by Reading hoping to get everyone fed and entertained CHECK IT OFF YOUR LIST: community theatre maven Mike Pardo, this in time to return safely to their homes by mish-mosh of show tune and po 8:30. The play is G-rated and suitable for Home repairs or renovations p music parodies will have those in the entire family, so we’re hoping to see Consolidate high-rate debt attendance falling on their tuchises in everyone there! The spiel is open to RCOS laughter. NOTE: No songs will be repeated members and nonmembers alike. Pay for college from last year’s spiel. Mike has come up In order to defray the cost of food, a with a whole new series of very funny modest $6 per person admission is being Whatever you need! parodies, making this year’s production a charged. Children 2 years of age and under totally new theatre experience! are free. In keeping with the Purim tradition Noisemakers will be provided to blot of tzedakah, $1 per admission collected will out the dreaded name of the evil villain, be donated to Mazon, A Jewish Response Haman. Members are also encouraged to to Hunger. To ensure there is enough food come to the event in costume — either as and seats, please RSVP by Friday, March their favorite Purim character or whoever 3, if you plan to attend. Please send a fultonbank.com else might tickle their fancy . check for the total amount to the Temple 1.800.FULTON.4 So, reserve the evening of March 11. office (555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing, PA Dinner will be served at 6:30. The Purim 19610) and enclose a note that the money Fulton Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Subject to credit approval. play will begin around 7 and should last is for the March 11 Purim Event. March 2017 SHALOM Page 5 weis wishes you a Happy Purim $ 99 1per lb Fresh Kosher Chickens Whole or Cut-up Fryers $399 Hamantaschen Mechaya - 10 ounce

2 $4 2 $6 $299 $199 Savion Fruit Slices Kedem Medford Farms Honey Fox’s U-Bet Syrup U U U 22 ounce U 6 ounce 64 ounce Bear - 12 ounce

Joyva Ring Jells 9 ounce Gefen Apple Crisps 1.41 oz $ 99 2 $ 2 3 U Weis Proudly Accepts Prices Effective through March 15, 2017 Weis Markets 2020 North 13th Street, Reading and 27559 Papermill Road, Wyomissing We reserve the right to limit quantities. Not responsible for typographical or pictorial errors. Some items not available at all stores. Page 6 SHALOM March 2017 Israel Book Club: Theodore Herzl’s ‘The Jewish State’

By Moisey Schneider & Andi Franklin now occupied a place on the international the house which will become the refuge genuine.” He warned his fellow Jews that Theodore Herzl was the first to project stage. of the Jewish nation.” As a member of the “universal brotherhood is not even a beautiful the question of Jewish exile and anti- He saw a world in which the Jews Congress, Herzl showed how the idea of dream. Antagonism is essential to man’s Semitism as an international problem. His lacked a fulcrum for national action and a Democratic Zionist movement depended greatest efforts.” As he became less and book “The Jewish State” was written 50 wrote a series of books among which was on self-emancipation. Zionism had become less confident of the cooperation of wealthy years before the creation of the modern “The Jewish State.” Herzl argued that, an integral part of his life. His analysis Jews, he created the Jewish Colonial Bank State of Israel. The book was the first in vain we are loyal patriots, our loyalty of anti-Semitism and how to approach to supply credit for settlers. public expression of a solution to this running to extremes. In vain, we make the the problem was as true after Hitler as it The plan in “The Jewish State” was problem and proposed that the Jewish same sacrifices of life and property as our was after Dreyfus. He believed that this not a dogmatic finality. Herzl knew and hope of 2,000 years could be fulfilled. His fellow citizens. In vain, we strive to increase tragedy is a world problem and that the hoped that it was to be rewritten by the passionate advocacy of the founding of a the fame of our native land in science, art homelessness of the Jewish people must Jewish people on their way to freedom. It Jewish state grew out of his conviction that and wealth. In countries where we have come to an end. It could only be solved by was revised from the moment the World Jews could never be assimilated into their lived for centuries, we are considered to the establishment of a free Jewish state in Zionist Congress was organized as an local population. He concluded that the be and called strangers, often by those their historic homeland. international movement. Later, the Society only solution for Jews would be organized whose ancestors were not yet in the When “The Jewish State” was of Jews became the Zionist Organization; emigration to a state of their own. land when Jews were already suffering. published, it was read by small circles the Jewish Company became the Bank, Herzl was familiar with the anti- He said everything tends, in fact to one, in European capitals and translated into the Jewish Colonial Trust and finally the Semitism of Austria and Germany. He had and the same conclusion which is clearly several languages. The German Jewish- Anglo-Palestinian Bank. encountered anti-Semitism when at school enunciated in that classic Berlin phase — controlled press was critical of the book. Unfortunately, he was overly optimistic and later as a newspaper correspondent “Juden Raus” (out with Jews). This book Herzl and his ideas were also rejected when he said, “the Jews, once settled in inPage Paris.  He wrote an article on the French is not just a piece of literature but a politicalShalom by the wealthy, the intellectuals and the their own state, will probablyMarch have no 2010more anti-Semitism evident at the trial of Alfred document to win converts, both Jews and political aristocracy. It was on the Jewish enemies and anti-Semitism will stop at Dreyfus as he witnessed the degradation non-Jews, to the idea of a Jewish state. It masses that Herzl made a tremendous once and forever.” of Dreyfus and heard the cries of “down is also a blueprintCommunity of a structure by which impression. News He was embraced by these But his predictions at the end of the with the Jews.” This made him a Zionist. to accomplish the state. Jews who saw him as a leader, who like book, for the most part, have come true: The beginning of this Jewish Herzl discussed the political and Moses, would liberate the Jews. Herzl no “We shall live at last as free men on renaissance preceded the appearance historic rationale for such a homeland in longerObituaries felt that he was alone. The Jewish our own soil, and die peacefully in our of his book by several decades. In every the book, arguing that this was not a social State evoked widespread interest. It own homes. section of Russian Jewry there was an or religious question but a national one. broughtLucy Jews Suzanne out of the ghettos Knoblauch and made L. (Sulman)“The world Moyer. will be He freed is also by survivedour liberty, active Zionist life. Hebrew journals had a The book articulated a plan to establish a themZeidman conscious, 96, Wyomissing. of their origin and their byenriched his daughters, by our wealth, Aileen magnified D., widow by our wide circulation. After Russian pogroms, Jewish state that was simple in design and destinySurviving as a people are on a the son, way toBruce freedom. F., ofgreatness. Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. the ideas of the first Zionists Pinsker, would be carried out by two agencies: The husbandOn his return of Geraldine from the Congress L. Zeidman, he wrote of Roxanne,“And whatever wife of Les we Walker, attempt of Batavia there to Smolenski, and Gordon were discussed Society of Jews and the Jewish Company. inShillington; his diary, “In a Basel brother, we Harrycreated Knoblauch, the Jewish Ohio;accomplish sons, Stanfor our B. own, husband welfare, of Kristine will react everywhere. There were also many Zionist The Society of Jews became the World State.”husband He also of Edith wrote Knoblauch, with great appreciationof Reading; K.powerfully Moyer, andof Sinking beneficially Spring for theand goodJay of societies in Poland, Romania and even Zionist Organization and led to the first ofa thesister, quality Ruth of Balis the Russian of Wyomissing; delegates and — H.,humanity.” husband of Margaret R. Moyer, of in the United States. However, with the World Zionist Congress in Basel in August “theyseveral possess nieces the and inner nephews. unity which has MuhlenbergOur next Township.book is “The Other Tail survivors Wags the advent of Herzl, Zionism became no more 1897, where Herzl told the delegates, “We disappeared from among--- Westerners, in areDog” grandchildren: by Efraim Karsh. Brett We A. Endy,hope youChad will a matter of local Jewish discussion, but are here to lay the foundation stone for this wayIrene they S. Zeidmanmanage to, 62,remain Wyomissing. erect and M.join Endy us. and Elizabeth K. Moyer; and She is survived by her brother Bruce great-grandchildren, Carson N., Logan Images from F., husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman C., Ardyn N. and Ava L. Endy Left vs. Right Debate at the JCC: Isof Shillington. peace in Israel possible--- Yemin Orde --- Shirley Robinson of B’nai B’rith By Amanda J. Hornberger two statesArea residentthe only and way recent to college ensure ReadingRobert on BergerMarch , 1454, to Reading. lay it on the Apartments.Join us for Survived an interactive by her conversation Friendship Is Israel locked in a tragic dispute Israel’sgraduate survival Jessica – or Flamholz is it the sent surest us line, Heone was from the the former right side,spouse the of other Lea Circleon Israel friends. with Tobin and Goldberg on between two peoples claiming the path tothese ever-increasing pictures from herbloodshed recent visit and theBerger, left and Reading. exchange He isreal survived solutions by Tuesday, March 14 --- at 7 p.m. at the JCC. same land — or a global conflict possiblyto Yemineven Orde,endangering an Israeli villageIsrael’s fortwo peace. daughters, Jonathan Molly S.R. Tobin,Berger, senior State Following Louis a Malamudmoderated, conversation 95, formerly the between Western democracy and survival?for children and youth supported onlineCollege, editor and and Bethany chief political S. Berger, blogger ofaudience Temple. will He be is able survived to ask by questions a son, Islamist terrorism? Is partition into Two expertby ourjournalists Federation. will be in ofReading; Commentary and one Magazine, brother, Dr. and Barry J. M.J. Mitchel,at this freehusband event. of QuestionsLaura Malamud, will be Goldberg,Berger, husband editor-at-large of Kathleen of the A. ForwardVieweg, ofaccepted Las Vegas; that eveninggrandchildren or prior Barry to the newspaperBoston, Mass. and former U.S. bureau husbandevent via ofemail Johna to Amanda Malamud, at amandah@ Deborah chief of the Israeli news--- magazine The Babbit-Malamudjfreading.org. and Sheri Malamud; All Around the Town______Jerusalem David MoyerReport, ,85, will Reading. debate these andThe great-grandchildren: event is free, but Jessy RSVPs Babbit, are By MazelJoan G. tov Friedman to Betsy and Al Katz on sonBadal Andrew, who hasto Ashley received Gensemer. the honor of and other He is criticalsurvived issues by his concerning wife, Marjorie the Carlyencouraged Malmud to and Brenda Ian Malamud. at Brendas@ theCongratulations birth of their fifth to grandchild, Korey Blanck Mia being chosen as the Child Advocate of State of Israel. jfreading.org or 610-921-0624. andShoshana, to Edith daughter Blanck onof theDavid birth and of the WeYear love for good the State news ofabout Pennsylvania. members of theirRachael new Katz granddaughter of Newton, Ma.and great- our community! Please*** share it by emailing Plan forreform your congregation Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests! granddaughter! *** [email protected] wishes to our Berks County oheb sholom presents Mazel tov to Carole *** and Michael athletes competing in the 2010 Maccabi Until next time: Shalom! a NEW program on RobinsonMazel Tov on to the the engagement Bluestone Familyof their: Games: Shalom Newspaper (Joan Friedman) To David and Marianna on their new Emily & Jared Baksic, swimming a NEW date! daughter and to grandparents Eric and Andrew Blickle, basketball 5” (2 col.) x 7” Marissa. Matthew Eisenberg, swimming Questions? *** Hannah and Alexis Glassmire, Contact Jodi Gibble, Marketing Director Congratulations to Charles and swimming Brenda Diamond on the engagement Brandon Missan, soccer READING The Highlands at Wyomissing of their son Brett THERE’Sand to grandfather Al STILL 2801 Papermill Road 2000 Cambridge Ave., Wyomissing, PA 1910 Diamond. Wyomissing, Pennsylvania 10-288-3405 *** Until next time: Shalom! Mazel Tov to RosalindTIME Hyman TOand [EmailRSVP all your simcha news to joan@ GROUP RATES AVAILABLE her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman friedman.net] PLEASE JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE Call Alice for a Site Tour KEEP UP WITH THE COMMUNITY LYNN & JEFF DRIBEN (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Visit www.readingjewishcommunity.orgRECIPIENTS OF REFORM CONGREGATION friday, april 21, 2017 OHEB SHOLOM’S 6TH ANNUAL RUTH & IRVIN BALIS We Finally Have A New President…Now What? VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION AWARD featuring Bernard Whitman. Bernard is a brand & political SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 2017 II hadhad nonostrategist idea!idea! with over 25 years ou’ve workedCOCKTAILS hard to AT accumulate 6:00 PM your wealth. We hear this again and again from experienceresidents advising of The some Highlands. of the Trust it to DINNERsomeone AT who 7:00 will PM work even harder to shabbat service at 7:00 pm world’s• People most powerfulare so friendly. leaders, Y speaker/oneg at 8:00 pm companies, and organizations. • There’s so much for me to do. grow your assets and provide you with peace of mind He is a frequent television Mr. Whitman will present in the Social • I love the independence and as youPLEASE plan for theMAIL future. IN From YOUR financial RSVP planning and Hall during the oneg for about 45 minutes. commentator with more than The Speaker Series is for adults only. 500 mediaprivacy appearances at The Highlands. on investmentCARD management BY MARCH to custom 17THcredit solutions, Babysitting is available for free for children networks• I don’t including worry aboutCNN, my future. ages 2-8 and tweens ages 9-13 with a • Dining is like a fine restaurant. deposit products and more. Clermont Wealth Strategies reservation by calling the office by Friday, MSNBC, Fox News, ABC, CNBC, • My kids are so glad I’m here. – personal, focused and highly confidential. April 14th, 610 375-6034. and Fox Business. Bernard is REFORM CONGREGATION the brother• I feel oflike student I’m at Cantor a resort. OHE B SHOLOM Appreciation is extended to Sisterhood for supporting the Speaker Series onegs. Harriet• This Dunkerley. was a smart and valuable financial decision. • They do things first class. Financial Planning Comprehensive Investment Management • I wish I’d moved here sooner. Custom Credit Solutions Bank Deposit & Convenience Products • I love it here! Wealth Preservation & Transfer Services Retirement Planning Come tour The Highlands. Find out first hand why it is the best place for CLERMONT WEALTH STRATEGIES retirement living. AT If you’re exploring options and choices for your retirement years, be sure to call us for a tour. You too can be a part of this wonderful lifestyle. We have every- 1.866.332.8393 thing from a studio apartment to gracious cottages. We would love to meet you clermontwealth.com and answer your questions.

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

EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ March 2017 SHALOM Page 7 Profiles in Leadership: Betsy & Al Katz

This month we are beginning Profiles in Leadership, a series of articles to help the community get to know board members of the Jewish Federation of Reading and why they actively participate in our community. We hope it inspires you and others to become more involved with our programs and in shaping the future of our Jewish community. This month - Betsy and Al Katz.

Betsy Katz walk-up apartments. My father owned a children’s clothing My involvements with family, UHA, store in Pottstown for 47 years. During YMHA (JCC) and attending Shabbat that time the store was always closed services at the local Talmud Torah for the High Holy Days, despite the fact helped to instill Yiddishkeit as well that it was a very busy season at back-to- as witnessing the birth of Israel and school time. My father put on tefillin and a family member’s involvement in davened every day from his Bar Mitzvah supplying Israel with needed items until he was no longer physically able to before and during the Israeli War of do so. He had identical twin sisters who Independence in 1948. were also observant Jews. He was very When I moved to Reading, I joined active in leading fundraising campaigns in the JCC for athletics and later became Pottstown for the synagogue and Israel. involved with the JCC board, where My mother, one of six siblings, was I held numerous positions. I also the ultimate hostess for all Jewish became involved with Federation and holidays as well as working in the family held numerous positions, including business. She was active in Sisterhood two terms as board chairman. I served and Hadassah. She kept a kosher on the Kesher Zion board in a number home and made sure that we always of positions, as well as the president had a delicious and full Shabbat dinner. of the Reading B’nai B’rith chapter Either my mother or father would attend when the B’nai B’rith Apartments were Shabbat morning services with my older dedicated in 1979. brother, Harry, and me. I have found the Reading Jewish My brother and I attended Jewish Our daughter, Beth Anne, lives in Blue Al Katz community to be inclusive and friendly. summer camp and were active in United Bell with her husband, Gad, and their My mother was one of 10 siblings Being in a small community has its Synagogue Youth. My brother made two children, Lior and Ella. They are and raised in a Reform family. My advantages over larger cities. You get aliyah 37 years ago and lives in Efrat, all very active at Tiferet Bet Israel. Our father was one of nine siblings and to know your community, its members Israel. He has four children and 14 son, David, and his wife, Rachel, live in was raised Orthodox. My maternal and the pluses and minuses of each. grandchildren, all of whom live in Israel. Newton, Mass., along with their three grandmother, my parents and a Even though our community has While I was reluctant to move back children, Gabriel, Amalia and Mia, and number of other of my mother’s dwindled in numbers over the years, to a small town after graduating from belong to Shaarei Tefillah congregation. family were some of the founders of it still has much to offer religiously and college in Boston, it was meant to be. At I have served on the boards of the a synagogue in Medford, Mass., in socially, and I hope our community a Jewish Federation tennis party I met Al, Jewish Federation, JCC and Kesher Zion the 1940s. It still exists in another members embrace them so we can who grew up in the Boston area. Synagogue. I led Junior Congregation location. continue to grow as a community. I To me being Jewish means living life services at Kesher Zion for many years. When we moved to New Jersey, see we have a number of younger every day embodying Jewish values. I hope that Reading will continue to be my father’s family was close by. My individuals becoming involved with While it was not always easy, we are an environment in which children can father and one of my uncles were our synagogues and community very pleased that both of our children learn strong Jewish values and where involved with UJA and my AZA chapter activities, and I wish them the same were able to be raised in Reading and being Jewish is important to them and helped by collecting the nickel and success and self-satisfaction that I emerge committed to their Judaism. something of which to be proud. dime cards in the four- and five-story have experienced over the years. 18 Years of Giving? Claim your membership in Federation’s new Silver Circle Society

The Jewish Federation of Reading is establishing the Silver Circle Society to honor a special group of donors. Anyone, no matter the size of their gift, who has contributed to Federation Community Campaigns for 18 years or more, will be recognized for their dedication and long-term support.

The Silver Circle Society acknowledges our long-term donors for leading the way. Their gifts are one of the many reasons our commu- nity has a strong Jewish present and a hopeful Jewish future. Silver Circle donors come from all backgrounds. They have an amazing passion for the Jewish community. Each member has a distinct personal story about why they choose to support Federation. The Silver Circle Society will recognize and thank each of these donors for their dedication to tzedakah, enriching lives for Jews here in Berks County, in Israel and around the world.

If you have been contributing to Federation (here or elsewhere) for at least 18 years, you belong in the Silver Circle. There is no mini- mum annual gift amount required to be a member of the Silver Circle. Contributions made to a local Federation campaign prior to mov- ing into our community can be included toward the 18 years of annual gifts. We look forward to hearing from you and thanking you for leading the way. Add your name to the list of Silver Circle donors whose commitment has enriched lives and helped us accomplish so much.

You can become a Silver Circle Society member by filling out the form below and returning it to Federation. You can also let us know by sending an email to [email protected] or registering online at www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org.

------Return to: JFR Silver Circle PO Box 14925 Reading, PA 19612 YES, I/we have contributed to Federation Campaigns (here or elsewhere) for at least 18 years. Please add me to the Silver Circle Society.

Name(s) ______

Address ______

Best Phone______Birthday ____/___/_____ Best Email______

My first campaign gift was in 19___. Page 8 SHALOM March 2017 PJ Library update PJ Library by the numbers By Amanda J. Hornberger program and getting to know one another. On Feb. 5 we were honored to have And the kids love the dinner play dates! We 85 Children receiving PJ Library books in Reading Tracy Newman, Engagement Officer from hope to continue and expand the Shabbat PJ Library come to Reading for a site B’yachad program next year, so if you are 10 million PJ Library has delivered 10 million books in the United States and visit. The main purpose for Tracy’s visit interested in participating please contact Canada was to speak with families participating in Amanda. our Shabbat B’yachad program, which is Tracy also stayed for the PJ Library Current PJ Library subscribers nationally funded through an engagement grant from kids yoga program which was a big hit for 118,000 PJ Library. the kids and parents! Our next PJ Library Our Shabbat B’yachad program gathers program is our Purim Carnival being held Tzedakah boxes sent to PJ Library subscribers since 2014 young families (many of which receive PJ at the JCC on Sunday, March 12, at 4 278,000 Library books) and has them meet for bi- p.m. This year’s Purim Carnival features monthly dinners in homes. The goal is to magician Eddy Ray followed by carnival- PJ Library is available in 12 countries help engage young Jewish families, and so style dinner. Free tickets will be given to 12 far the participants are really enjoying the children who come in costume! 45,819 Parents who chose a “Your Turn” Parent book from PJ Library in Tot Shabbat and PJ Library at the Highlands Summer 2016 By Amanda J. Hornberger stories. A pint-sized Oneg will follow. 18,000 PJ Our Way subscribers nationally (kids 9-11) \Kids through grade 2 are invited to Highlands residents as well as join Rabbi Michelson and PJ Library of grandparents are invited to join the fun! Reading for Tot Shabbat at the Highlands All children are welcome! This event is on Saturday, March 25, at 10 a.m. Tot free courtesy of PJ Library of Reading Shabbat is a fun way for children to learn which is generously supported by the about Shabbat and includes music and Sue B. Viener Memorial Fund. Expert on antisemitism 13th annual Yashek Memorial Speaker By Amanda J. Hornberger Wiesenthal Center. He is also the Chief on antisemitism. Holocaust-related topics. We are honored Despite the many advances our Representative of the Center to the During his lecture entitled “Confronting to have such an international expert world has made, antisemitism continues United Nations in New York. Holocaust Denial and Distortion in deliver this year’s lecture! to be an issue in 2017. This year’s Weitzman also travels the globe Today’s World,” Weitzman will explore The Richard J. Yashek Memorial Yashek Memorial Lecture speaker, Mark as a member of the official U.S. the history of antisemitism and the Lecture is free and open to the public Weitzman, is an expert on the issue and delegation to the International Holocaust Holocaust, and antisemitism throughout and begins at 7:30 p.m. on March 7 in will bring his up-to-the-moment current Remembrance Authority, where he chairs the world and United States in 2017. the Wachovia Theatre at Albright College. perspective on national and global anti- the Committee on Antisemitism and Thanks to the generous support of The Wachovia Theatre is conveniently Semitism to Reading on March 7 at 7:30 Holocaust Denial, and as a member of Rosalye Yashek and her daughters in located in the Center for the Arts on p.m. at the Wachovia Theatre at Albright the advisory panel of Experts on Freedom memory of their husband and father, Albright College’s campus. For directions College. of Religion or Belief of the Organization Richard, the Richard J. Yashek Memorial or additional information please call the Weitzman is Director of Government for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Lecture is in its 13th year of bringing Lakin Holocaust Library & Resource Affairs and of the Task Force against He also co-chairs the Working Group on distinguished scholars from across the Center at 610-921-7214 or email hrc@ Hate and Terrorism for the Simon International Affairs of the Global Forum country to Albright College to discuss albright.edu.

WtàxM TÑÜ|Ä DD ? ECDJ Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom g|ÅxM JMCC Ñ AÅA invites you to cÄtvxM exyÉÜÅ VÉÇzÜxztà|ÉÇ First Night Community Seder: b{xu f{ÉÄÉÅ TwwÜxááM HHH jtÜã|v~ WÜ|äx Food Provided by: jçÉÅ|áá|Çz? cT DELIDC Boscov’s Ala Carte Catering Adults: $ 35.00 fxvÉÇw a|z{à VÉÅÅâÇ|àç Children (6‐13 years): $ 20.00 Children 5 & under: FREE Hoping to see all of you as we gather together as a community to share our Seder Meal! ctááÉäxÜ fxwxÜ MENU: Matzo Ball Soup, Gefelte Fish, Horseradish, Matzah, Harosset, Hard Boiled Eggs, Wine, Juice, VÉÅx xåÑxÜ|xÇvx à{x XåÉwâá4 Seder Plate, Turkey with Matza Stuffing on the side, Baked Salmon w/ Mango Salsa, Roasted Red Potatoes, Green Beans Almandine, Passover Desserts, Decaf, Coffee, Tea ]ÉâÜÇxç zâ|wxw uç If nancial assistance is necessary, please contact Sari Incledon at Jewish Family Service 610‐921‐2766. etuu| `tàà{xã TuxÄáÉÇ NO RESERVATIONS will be accepted a�er Friday, March 31. Catered by Boscov’s Ala Carte Service Caterers Cost: Adults- $35/Children (6-13) $20/Children 5 Please send completed reserva�on form & check made payable to RCOS: 555 Warwick Drive; & under free Wyomissing, PA 19610. Vegetarian entree available upon request with reservation RSVPs and payment due to the RCOS Office by Friday, March 31, 2017. Kesher Zion Synagogue and payment. RSVP required and must be sent to

P.O. Box 14112 Kesher Zion on or before March 31, 2017. # of Adults: _____ x $35.00/each = _____ Phone:______E‐Mail:______Reading, PA 19612 In need of transportation? Call KZ - In need of NAMES (rst & last): ______Phone: 610-374-1763 financial assistance? Call Sari Incledon at Fax: 610-929-0886 Jewish Family Services 610-921-2766. ______E-mail: [email protected] # of Children (6‐13) _____ x $20.00/ea.ch= ______# of Children (0‐5) _____ (need high chair?) yes ______

NAMES (rst & last): ______I/we will be $35 each Adult #______NAME: ______attending the ______Wednesday $20 each child # ______PHONE: ______TOTAL # ATTENDING: ______TOTAL PAYMENT = ______Second Night Seder on Children under 5 free #______TOTAL # ATTENDING______Please indicate any sea�ng preferences: ______April 11, 2017 Vegetarian #______

RSVPs and payment are due to the Kesher Zion Office by Friday, March 31, 2017 March 2017 SHALOM Page 9 Youth News Tu B’Shevat celebration at Jewish Community High School

By Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner Jewish Community High School Tu B’Shevat is the 15th of Shevat, and JCHS teens and seniors celebrated this ancient calendar date by reviewing a Talmudic legend, the story of Honi the Circle- Maker. This was a continuation of a Hevruta – Shared Inter-generational study program. The Talmud records the following legend: Once while Hone HaMa’agal (the circle-maker) was walking down the road, he saw a man planting a carob tree. Honi asked, “How many years will it take for this tree to bear fruit” The man answered that it would take 70 years. Honi said, “Are you so healthy that you expect to live that long to enjoy its fruit?” The man answered, “I found a fruitful world, because my forebears planted for me. Thus I shall do for my children.” (BT Ta’anit 23a) We discussed the meaning of the Honi saga from our different age and experience perspectives: A grandparent “should plant” for the next generation; in comparison with the mindset of a young person inheriting what was planted for us by a previous generation. Class is in session We had a chance to discuss what we “inherited” respectively “I assumed the food in the seed from previous parents and would be no good after all that time. grandparents, and we considered How could it be?” said Solowey. She how different the world was 50 was soon proved wrong. years ago, and today. Methuselah is part of a larger This led ultimately to a general project organized by Solowey, discussion of farming and literal and with this success she plans planting, which is another feature to create a center for the study of of this holiday, originally a day of ancient, extinct, and endangered determining the taxes on fruit and seeds. “We want to make sure that nut trees. endangered plant species don’t Rabbi Dov shared an article that disappear from Israel’s landscape,” described five of Israel’s most famous Executive Director David Lehrer trees published for Tu B’Shevat, said. “Five of Israel’s must-see trees.” Following study, it’s always a Each partner had an opportunity good idea to eat — and we then to select which tree was the most snacked on the traditional species interesting; the majority of them were of fruits from the time of the Bible fascinated by the Methusaleh Palm. through contemporary Israeli fruit Methuselah is considered to production — enjoyed in “historical have been the oldest living man blender smoothies.” in the Hebrew Bible, reaching the One of the new fruits Rabbi Dov Rabbi Matt Abelson teaches a class on the origins of Zionism. esteemed age of 969. It is only brought were several “cactus pears” appropriate, then, that a date palm or “cactus figs.” It’s also known as was that the cactus is not native Origins of Zionism that sprouted from a 2,000-year- a “sabra,” a term used to describe a to Israel; it was imported 300 Rabbi Matt continues to teach old seed at southern Israel’s Arava Jew born in Israel. The term is also years ago from Mexico and the his 3rd mini-mester on Israel, Institute for Environmental Studies usually inclusive of Jews born during Southwestern U.S. to be used as a responding to student requests to carries the same name. the period of the establishment of growing, natural corral for sheep, study more about the origins of the During excavations at the site of the state of Israel. The word is goats and cattle. modern Jewish State of Israel. “The Herod the Great’s palace in Israel Arabic and Hebrew. Immigrants Amazingly, both teens and Origins of Zionism” a history course. in the early 1960s, archaeologists to Palestine began using it in the seniors suggested a really heavy We will explore what Zionism is and unearthed a small stockpile of early 1930s. The allusion is to a planting of the sabra on the why it arose in the late 19th century. seeds stowed in a clay jar dating tenacious, thorny desert plant with southern U.S. border would be a We will examine the different back 2,000 years. For the next a thick hide that conceals a sweet, natural “wall” or fence, and the strands that form Zionism and some four decades, the ancient seeds softer interior, suggesting that even extra benefit would be the crops of the arguments that were essential were kept in a drawer at Tel Aviv’s though the Israeli Sabra are rough of sabra fruit. to its development in the early 20th Bar-Ilan University. But then, in and masculine on the outside, they We then served smoothies to the century. Lastly, we will ask how the 2005, botanical researcher Elaine are delicate and sensitive on the other JCHS students and shared the circumstances that enabled Zionism Solowey decided to plant one and inside. various brochures that Rabbi Dov to arise may or may not apply in our see what, if anything, would sprout. What was interesting to all had prepared for the day. contemporary world. BBYO leader from region earns prestigious honor from organization Dear Friends of Liberty Region BBYO, been with Liberty Region for four years will receive this award for his or her Arnie Weiner, the Director of Michigan Each year BBYO hands out an award at and has made a strong difference in service and commitment to the values Region from 1969-2008, whose passion our annual Professional Staff Conference. our growth and quality of programming, and ideas of AZA and BBG. For decades, and dedication to AZA and BBG It is called the “Arnie Weiner Award for especially in the Philadelphia Metropolitan AZA and BBG have served as the made chapter involvement a profound Professional Excellence in Furthering the area. Through Arielle’s leadership we foundation for BBYO’s leadership experience for Jewish teens in Michigan Principles of AZA and BBG”. The part of have seen strong teen and community development experience. Hundreds of and throughout the country. this award that makes it extra special is development, brand awareness, and new thousands of teens have participated Please help us in congratulating that the nominations come from the people partnerships. in local chapters, experiencing the Arielle on this extremely well deserved who are most impacted by our professional To offer a better understanding of the democratic process while developing recognition! staff, the teens. magnitude of this award, I have included the values and skills necessary to excel Jeff Koch and Jenny Oswald This year’s recipient was our very own the text below: in positions of leadership that they will Regional Director and Associate Arielle Buxbaum, one of Liberty Region As nominated by BBYO’s youth encounter throughout their lives. Regional Director BBYO’s Regional Directors. Arielle has leaders annually, a BBYO professional This award recognizes the legacy of BBYO Liberty Region Page 10 SHALOM March 2017 Congregational News Gala dinner to celebrate 20 years of service at Chabad Center

Chabad Lubavitch of Berks Community Service Award; Dr. throughout the years. County, and The Jewish Recovery Jerome Marcus with its Pillar of Please RSVP by March 18 either Network will hold a gala dinner to the Community Award; and Sandy by mail or at www.celebratinghope. mark 20 years of community service, Solmon with its Community org. reflecting on the work that has been Leadership Award. Each of them has There is a $180 couvert charge done and focusing on future growth contributed in various ways to support for this event, and formal attire is in its various activities. a shared mission of helping people requested. The “Celebrating the Power of and providing Jewish educational Rabbi Yosef Lipsker and his Hope” dinner will be held Sunday, programs and services, as a means wife, Chana, began their work in March 26, at the Chabad Center, of providing a springboard towards Reading in 1997 when he assumed 2320 Hampden Blvd.. A reception a meaningful life, and ensuring the the rabbinate at Congregation will begin at 4 followed by dinner continuity of the Jewish community, Shomrei Habrith. They have at 5. and the Jewish people as a whole. devoted much of their efforts to Noted radio host and columnist The event will focus on “the tending to the spiritual needs of Dennis Prager will be the guest power of hope” – a principle that people recovering from substance speaker. has guided Chabad, the Jewish abuse. The Lipskers converted During the event, Chabad will Recovery Network and the thousands the Shomrei Habrith building to a honor David Rotenberg with its they have assisted and supported Chabad Center in 2009. Dennis Prager

February ✡ Shevat - Adar LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE (610) 374-1763 Weekly Shabbat services Candle Saturdays:Lightings 9:30 a.m.; Torah Tuesdays, Portions 7:30 p.m. SERVICES HELD AT JCC, 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125, Wyomissing February 3 February 4/Shevat 8 REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 a production of 5:07 p.m. Bo (Exodus 10:1 – 13:16) Temple Rodeph Torah Friday, March 1: 6 p.m. Fridays, March 10, 24 and 31: 7:45 p.m. February 10 Rock Shabbat — Friday,February March 11 17/Shevat at 7 15p.m. Saturday,5:15 p.m. March 25: Intergenerational TotBeshalach Shabbat (Exodus at The 13:17 Highlands, – 17:16) 10 a.m.

FebruaryCHABAD 17 CENTER OF BERKSFebruary COUNTY 18/Shevat (610) 22 921-0881 5:24 p.m. Yitro (Exodus 18:1 – 20:23) ROCK Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m.

February 24 CO NGREGATION SHOMREIFebruary 25HABRITH/Shevat 29 Cantor Joanna Alexander 5:32 p.m. Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1 – 24:18) Bruce Cooper, Bass Eric Komar, guitaristKevin & Werbel, songwriter Drums SHABBATFriday, March 17th Ellie Golden, Piano at 7:00 pm with special

March ✡ Adar - Nisan Wine & Cheese Oneg

SAVE THE DATE

Shabbat Candle Lightings Torah Portions & BE MOVED!

March 3 March 4/Adar 6 5:40 p.m. Terumah (Exodus 25:1 – 27:19)

March 10 March 11/Adar 13 5:47 p.m. Tetzaveh (Exodus 27:20 – 30:10)

March 17 March 18/Adar 20 6:55 p.m. Ki Tisa (Exodus 30:11 – 34:35)

March 24 March 25/Adar 27 7:02 p.m. Vayak’hel-Pekudei (Exodus 35:1 – 40:38)

March 31 April 1/Nisan 5 7:09 p.m. Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1 – 5:26)

CE LE PU BR RI AT 2017 M 2017E Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom Presents the 2nd Annual KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2017 MEGILLAH READING AT 7:00 p.m. HAMANTASCHEN, DRINKS, PRIZES FOR COSTUMES, KARAOKE Open to the entire Jewish community SUNDAY, MARCH 12, 2017 MEGILLAH READING AT 9:30 a.m. HAMANTASCHEN & DRINKS Saturday, March 11 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm RSVP by March 3

RCOS players retell the story of Esther as a dinner show

$6/person for vegetarian lasagna dinner ($1 of which will be given as tzedakah to Mazon)

Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom 555 Warwick Drive AT THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF READING Wyomissing, PA 19610 1100 BERKSHIRE BLVD. (SUITE 125) WYOMISSING, PA 19610 YOUR RSVP IS APPRECIATED 610-374-1763– KZSECRETARY@ENTERMAIL NET 610.375.6034 [email protected] ohebsholom.org March 2017 SHALOM Page 11 Religious rapprochement

By Rabbi Matthew Abelson several facts. For example, what always see themselves as having however, that of all the countries Kesher Zion Synagogue constitutes the OT is not identical to much in common. In truth, the last in the world, anti-Semitic attitudes When I teach the contents of the Tanakh. First, the 70 years have been a remarkable are most deeply ingrained in nations religious school OT includes books, such as Judith, period of rapprochement between of the Islamic world. The Anti students about the that are excluded from the Tanakh. us. The event that perhaps marks Defamation League reported in May difference between Second, some of the books that are the most significant moment in 2014, “The 16 countries with the Judaism and in the Tanakh and the OT, such as that rapprochement is the Catholic highest index scores of anti-Semitic Christianity, I tell Esther, are different versions of the Church’s nostra aetate statement views are all in the Middle East and them that we share same basic narrative. Nevertheless, issued in 1965 during the Second North Africa.” The recent discussion one set of books — when teaching religious school Vatican Council, which states, between President Trump and what Christians call kids, I still think that presenting “Although the Church is the new Prime Minister Netanyahu about the Old Testament the difference between Judaism people of God, the Jews should a regional solution to the Israeli- (OT) and Jews call the Tanakh — and Christianity in the fashion I not be presented as rejected or Palestinian conflict betrays that — but the Christians have another set described earlier is appropriate. accursed by God.” While this as much as Israel, in its wisdom, of books called the New Testament. The reason is that it underlines statement may not appear all that has avoided framing the conflict as This rudimentary way of the commonality between the two flattering, it was revolutionary in one between Israel and Islam — delineating the difference between religions. that it overturned nearly 2,000 years the unwillingness of 18 of the 21 Christianity and Judaism ignores Jews and Christians did not of Christian hostility toward Jews. member states of the Arab League The Jewish-Christian and an additional 10 of the 57 rapprochement was one of the states in the Organization of Islamic outcomes of the Shoah. While the Cooperation to recognize Israel is Nazi regime was anti-Christian, elemental to the crisis within Islam. Introduce your child the Christian hostility toward Jews The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is Join us next time articulated in the Gospels and in not merely a conflict between two to the joy of Shabba t! Church policy played a foundational nations over one piece of land. on Mar. 25th role in the hatred that the Nazis Otherwise, it would have been at 10 am for an took to new extremes. In short, resolved by now. Intergenerational only after the horrors of the Shoah Recent executive orders by Tot were Christians capable of re- President Trump have brought Tot Shabbat at evaluating some of their most basic many Jews to the side of Muslims The Highlands convictions. because of our conviction that the We must remind ourselves of executive order is an outcome Shabbat 2000 Cambridge Ave. this history for two reasons: 1) of religious bias. These efforts is a musical, story-filled, interactive hour for Wyomissing we cannot take the era in which may play a role in the longed for children through grade 2. Bring your family we live for granted. The friendly Jewish-Muslim reconciliation. When Jewish-Christian relations that are we partner with Muslims for such & friends to celebrate with Rabbi Michelson part of the fabric of our lives is a purposes, however, we should take and stay for a pint-sized oneg of juice, challah, new phenomenon; 2) we should the opportunity to make clear our fruit, and child-friendly treats. not despair over the generally poor interests. state of Jewish-Muslim relations. Diminishing anti-Semitism in Members and non-members are Just as our ancestors would have the Muslim world, gaining full invited. No registration is required. Tot Shabbat services are held had trouble imagining the friendly international recognition of Israel, Saturday mornings at 10:00 am at relations we enjoy today with our and eradicating the role of radical Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, fellow Christians, so too we hope, Islam in the perpetuation of the 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing our descendants will recall our Israeli-Palestinian conflict are unless noted. Please call the Temple office with any questions, present relations with Muslims as crucial steps toward a Jewish- 610.375.6034. a bygone time. Of course, bright Muslim rapprochement. The reality spots exist. In Reading, the Jewish of Jewish-Christian rapprochement community has enjoyed friendly should hearten us as we pursue a relations with the Muslim community Jewish-Muslim rapprochement, but UPCOMING DATES: through the strong leadership of we should hope that the paths toward April 22 & May 13 individuals from both communities. these respective rapprochements We cannot ignore the fact, are as different as day and night.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR KESHER ZION’S Celebrate Shabbat with friends and family 2017 PASSOVER CELEBRATIONS Join

Monday, April 10: Fast of the First Born KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE Siyyum service at 8:00 a.m. at JFR on followed by light breakfast Friday, April 14, 2017

Tuesday, April 11: KZ Passover Festival Services and kiddush at for 9:30 a.m. at JFR Shabbat Services at 6:00p.m. with RCOS KZ Second Seder at RCOS at 7:00 p.m. and/or Conducted by Rabbi Abelson No 7:30 p.m. Minyan at JFR Shabbat Dinner at 7:00p.m.

Friday, April 14: Combined Shabbat Evening Services at RCOS Cost: $27.00 / Adult 6:00 p.m. KZ sponsored Shabbat Passover Dinner at $15.00 / Child 6 to 13 7:00 p.m. Everyone invited. Reservations (required) to KZ office before March 31, 2017 (Children 5 and under Free) See additional flyer for reservation information Vegetarian entrée available upon request with reservation only (same price)

Saturday, April 15: Shabbat Services at JFR 9:30 a.m. RSVP by March 31, 2017 If you are in need of transportation to the Shabbat Dinner or Service, Monday, April 17: KZ Passover Services at JFR 9:30 a.m. followed please contact the KZ Office (610) 374-1763. by Kiddush

Tuesday, April 18: KZ Passover Services at JFR 9:30 a.m. RESERVATION FORM: SHABBAT PASSOVER DINNER including Yizkor and Kiddush I/We will be attending Friday, April 14, 2017 for Passover Dinner at Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing, PA 19610. We are returning this reservation form with our check made payable to Kesher Zion Synagogue, P.O. Box 14112, Reading, P.A. 19612 RSVP by: March 31, 2017 $27.00 x each adult _____ $______$15.00 x each child ______$______(Children 5 and under Free) $Total $______Name:______Phone:______March 2017 SHALOM Page 12 Gardening with Vicky Last year’s garden still paying dividends

By Vicky Sokoloff Plum tomatoes can be quartered in half if they are very large) or made into pieces. Brown in a small amount of Fruits and vegetables eaten and frozen. They make a tasty addition sauce for topping ice cream, pudding, or oil in the pot you will use to make the straight from the garden have flavor to soup, stew or sauces. Tomato sauce cake and then frozen. I like the berries soup. Throw in a clove or two of garlic that is beyond comparison. But many can be canned or frozen. My favorite best if they are not quite defrosted and when the zucchini is almost brown. Salt things can be preserved for use when way to keep eggplant is to slice and still have some texture. lightly and add a bit of white pepper. Add the garden is buried in snow. Herbs roast it slightly before freezing. It can Zucchini is more of a challenge. Its water to cover the zucchini. Bring to a are easy. Most can be simply washed later go into the oven with sauce and high water content makes it unsuitable boil. Then add a handful of long-grain and frozen in sandwich bags. This cheese for a quick side dish. We are for freezing. But zucchini soup and rice. Simmer for one hour. Puree with method is perfect for parsley, bay still using beans, leeks and snow peas zucchini cake both freeze very well. an immersion blender. Adjust seasoning leaves, oregano, thyme, and many frozen last fall. Making zucchini soup is more of a to taste. I like oregano, thyme, and others. My favorite use for peppers is to process than an exact recipe. It is a granulated onion, but pick your own I also dry lime basil, bay leaf, stuff them, bake about half way. They great way to use up those huge zucs favorites. You can eat it or cool and then oregano, sage and thyme. Last year I are then frozen and the baking finished that hid under a leaf until they were too freeze at this point. To serve, just warm made my first attempt at lavender oil when they are defrosted. Garlic and big for most other uses. and top with grated parmesan cheese and was very pleased with the result. onions should be hung to dry. Garlic can Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise if desired. When reheating frozen soup Lavender can also be dried to use in also be roasted and then frozen. and scoop out the seeds. I usually peel the texture improves if you add a dash sachets for drawers and closets. Extra strawberries can be frozen (cut off about half the skin. Cut into 1-inch of milk. A proud grandfather

Call Today for Your Complimentary Consultation 610-376-3956

311 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 19611 BarrerAndWhite.com

James G. Barrer, DMD Douglas W. White, DMD

Herbert Schneider takes part in his granddaughter Maggie Nagle’s Coast Guard graduation at the Cape May Coast Guard Station. Maggie is a daughter of Herb’s daughter Nancy and her husband, Doug. She will be stationed at Padre Island, Texas. Herb is a World War II veteran of the Discovering Mighty Eighth Air Force and 351st Bomb Group. Antiques

ATTENTION ANTIQUE ENTHUSIASTS THURSDAY, Guest speaker Bill Howze, host of MARCH 23 the BCTV show “All That Stuff” will satisfy curiosity, entertain, educate, 10am-12pm and provide the history on a RSVP by March 17 Join us as Reform Congregation few select pieces. to 610-616-5112. Oheb Sholom celebrates Israeli Independence Day Please call ahead for a chance Friday, April 28th at 7:00 pm to have your item be a part of the presentation!

The service will be followed by a Mediterranean Oneg! Starting at $1,600 for LIFE! We will also be announcing forthcoming events commemorating Rabbi Michelson’s Independent Living & Personal Care with No Buy-In Fees! upcoming rabbinical milestones. 803 Penn Street, Reading, PA 19601 • www.manoratms.com March 2017 SHALOM Page 13 Bethany’s Mississippi Delta Bat Mitzvah This story on Bethany Berger, daughter of Lea Berger and granddaughter of Sam Sil- berstein, is reprinted with permission from Southern & Jewish. For more on Jewish life in the South, visit us at http://www.myjewish- learning.com/blog/southern-and-jewish/ By Rachel Jarman Myers Bethany Berger lives in Indianola, Miss., and is an active congregant at Hebrew Union Congregation in Greenville, where she recent- ly decided to have a Bat Mitzvah ceremony. Having never had a ceremony back when she was 13, she and Rabbi Matt Dreffin worked together to prepare for this occasion. was a participant on the very first Alterna- And a brilliant bat mitzvah it was! tive Spring Break I planned. She was part When I walked into the historic sanctuary, of the American University Hillel trip that I joined a group of excited and proud partic- spent a week in Mississippi back in March ipants. Rather than the sometimes awkward, 2014. It was during that week that she was timid and nervous children standing up on the first welcomed by the congregants ofHe- bimah, Bethany skillfully led us through the brew Union Congregation, celebrating service, taking moments to reflect on certain Shabbat and sharing a meal together. She prayers and readings and what they meant to then went on to serve as their Education her along the way of her Jewish journey. The Fellow, and now is a full time congregant. ceremony felt casual, friendly, and was the She explained how this was a place, in this most meaningful and sincere Jewish lifecycle small Delta town, where she solidified her events that I have ever been privileged to wit- Jewish identity. ness. I fondly call her “my prize,” my shin- There was laughter — especially when ing example of how having an experience Rabbi Dreffin invited Bethany’s former col- in Mississippi can be transformative– so leagues up for an aliyah and six Jewish pro- transformative that she chose to make this fessionals all had stage fright at the same time, place her home! I’m so proud not only for forgetting our lines. There were tears, when the work she put into learning to chant To- Junior Youth Kallah Bethany gave her d’var Torah, reflecting on rah, but for the community she has created Children from Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom traveled her Jewish journey and the meaning behind to Camp Harlam for Junior Youth Kallah, preparing them for around her and the celebration she inspired activities in the National Federation for Temple Youth when having this ceremony in Greenville and the in an authentically Southern and Jewish they reach high school. community she now calls home. space. Congratulations on your brilliant Bat I may have cried a little too. Bethany Mitzvah, Bethany!

Celebrating The Power of Hope With the help of our partners and supporters, we continue to provide hope, Please join Chabad Lubavitch of Berks County as we celebrate and transform lives; From the depths of despair, The Power of Hope at our Celebrating The Power of Hope With the help of our partners and supporters, we continue to provide hope, Please join Chabad Lubavitch of Berks County as we celebrate to the heights of joy and meaning. Each and every day we strive to and transform lives; From the depths of despair, The Power of Hope at our unleash the power of hope. to the heights of joy and meaning. Each and every day we strive to th unleash the power of hope. “I had been neglecting my family for years, but when I walked into the Rabbi’s e th home, something clicked inside me. Suddenly I missed them.” – Justin T. 20 Anniv rsary “I had been neglecting my family for years, but when I walked into the Rabbi’s e “There was so much uncertainty throughout this struggle, yet somehow, after I home, something clicked inside me. Suddenly I missed them.” – Justin T. 20 Anniv rsary hung up the phone with the Rabbi, I knew it would be alright.” – Brian C. “There was so much uncertainty throughout this struggle, yet somehow, after I Gala Dinner hung up the phone with the Rabbi, I knew it would be alright.” – Brian C. “There was something magical at that Shabbat table. I felt like I belonged to Gala Dinner something. It’s hard to describe. I think it was the first time I felt proud to be “There was something magical at that Shabbat table. I felt like I belonged to Sunday, March 26, 2017 something. It’s hard to describe. I think it was the first time I felt proud to be Jewish” – Sara F. Sunday, March 26, 2017 Adar 28 5777 Jewish” – Sara F. Adar 28 5777

• • • • Dennis Prager Guests of Honor Dennis Prager Guests of Honor Featured Guest Speaker Featured Guest Speaker

David Rotenberg Dr. Jerome Marcus Sandy Solmon David Rotenberg Dr. Jerome Marcus Sandy Solmon Dennis Prager is one of America’s most influential thinkers. Community Pillar of the Community Service Award Community Award Leadership Award Dennis Prager is one of America’s most influential thinkers. Community Pillar of the Community His daily three-hour nationally syndicated radio talk show is listened to by Service Award Community Award Leadership Award His daily three-hour nationally syndicated radio talk show is listened to by millions of Americans across the United States, and millions more abroad. millions of Americans across the United States, and millions more abroad. He is also a syndicated columnist and a New York Times bestseller that has Reception at four o’clock in the evening authored six books. He is also a syndicated columnist and a New York Times bestseller that has Reception at four o’clock in the evening Dinner at five o’clock authored six books. His latest project is the internet-based Prager University which produces Dinner at five o’clock courses that provide a convincing, rational and sophisticated alternative to The Chabad Center of Berks County His latest project is the internet-based Prager University which produces 2320 Hampden Blvd - Reading, Pennsylvania The Chabad Center of Berks County much of what is taught at contemporary universities. In 2016 alone, Prager courses that provide a convincing, rational and sophisticated alternative to University’s courses had over 220 million views worldwide. much of what is taught at contemporary universities. In 2016 alone, Prager 2320 Hampden Blvd - Reading, Pennsylvania Couvert $180 Dennis Prager is also a world renowned defender of Israel. He uses his Formal Attire University’s courses had over 220 million views worldwide. Couvert $180 syndicated show, published writings, speaking engagements, television Dennis Prager is also a world renowned defender of Israel. He uses his Formal Attire appearances and university debates as platforms to spread his Pro-Israel Please RSVP by Wednesday, March 18, 2017 syndicated show, published writings, speaking engagements, television message. His Prager University video which accurately explains the Middle By mail, or online at ww.celebratinghope.org appearances and university debates as platforms to spread his Pro-Israel Please RSVP by Wednesday, March 18, 2017 East Conflict has been seen by over ten million people worldwide. message. His Prager University video which accurately explains the Middle By mail, or online at ww.celebratinghope.org East Conflict has been seen by over ten million people worldwide. Page  Shalom March 2010 Jewish Family Service Discussion of addiction important to all

By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. will not be limited to issues dealing with Others) provided the following statistics. For every person who has a We invite the entire adolescents. Drug and alcohol abuse is According to Dr. Jay Holder, Medical substance abuse problem, several community to attend a a problem for all age groups, and we all Director and founder of the Exodus others are affected. Those affected program Jewish Family need to know more about it. Treatment Center in Miami, chemical may be spouses, parents, children, Service is sponsoring: In a recent article, “Overcoming dependency is the number one secret siblings, grandparents – all are hurt “What Every Family Denial” (Na’amat Woman Winter 2009/10) in the Jewish community. Reportedly, in different ways. What can we as a Needs to Know about Barbara Trainin Blank wrote: “Alcohol and Pageup to 50 14 percent of patient populations communal organization do to addressSHALOMShalom MarchMay 2017 2010 Alcohol and Drug chemical dependency don’t discriminate, in some residential treatment centers the problem? Awareness is an important Abuse & Addiction: An affecting Jews and non-Jews alike, and are Jews – as are 20 percent of those first step and we invite everyone in the Interactive Dialogue women as much as men. Addiction calling national drug hot lines (yet Jews communityJewishJewish to share questions Family Family and ServiceService with David Rotenberg.” and alcoholism can be found in every comprise less than 3 percent of the U.S. concerns at our above mentioned This program will be held Wednesday, socioeconomic and religious segment of population). Chemical dependency is the program on April 28. April 28 at 7 p.m. at the JCC. the Jewish community”. Carthird leading donation killerCancer in the U.S. It is also geneticshelps an Our sustainprogram in is thefree, JFS though Jewish programs family David is the executive director of An article on the JACS Web unreported and/or unknown contributor reservations are requested. For more Adolescent Youth Services at Caron site (Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically Byto deaths SariSari Incledon, Incledon, caused by M. carM.Ed. Ed. accidents, heart JFSpresentedinformation, (and get by a Melissa taxcall donation Sari Rosen, at at 610-921- the Director same Simonconnections and VeeVee with Scott. networks We could of peers,not run Pesadichprofits (Berks desserts. Encore Thanks and to Jeff BCAP) Bornstein that Foundation, however his presentation Dependent Persons and Significant attacks,ThankJewish suicides you Family to Daveand strokes. time)of0624. National call me Outreach at 610-921-0624 at Sharsheret, or go to thehealth food bankprofessionals without them. and related andhave Corinne the VITA Wernick program for their ­— assistance Volunteer in WalkerService, for partnering participating www.charitableautoresources.com.with the goal of helping members of our resources.On April 2 TheJFS sponsoredword “sharsheret” a Seder at servingIncome the Tax meal. Program. Generous contributions BERKS ENCORE PROVIDES FREE TAX PREPARATION inwith our Breast car Cancer donationVolunteer OpportunitiescommunityEach month Available make our informedfood bank – choices.serves more theis HebrewManor at Marketfor chain, Square. symbolizing The Manor’s madeThe in VITAmemory volunteers of Natalie can Adelglass prepare by FROM TRAINED VOLUNTEERS program.Support TheJewishServices proceeds Family Service seeks volunteersandSharsheret more people.to help is our (Inthe Marchseniors only we national served residentsthe connections were joined the by organization residents of familyfederal, and friendsstate underwroteand local the tax Seder. forms fromof Berkshis auctioned and withcar grocery shopping182not-for-profit and people other in errands. 62organization households). supporting We could Providencemakes among House andwomen, Friendship families Circle as Finally,well as thanks property to the tax bakers and of rent the Reading Health Jewish women and their families and communities facing breast and rebate forms. They can also direct Was your household income less than $50,000 in 2009? will helpIf support you have our some time, call Sarinot or provide Carole this at 610-921-0624important service. without seniors. Boscov’s provided a delicious meal, Kesher Zion religious school and Temple programs.System’s McGlinn If you would dedicatedfacing breast volunteers. and ovarian Thank canceryou to long- and enjoyedovarian by cancer. all. A big One thank in you 40 to Jewsbaker Ohebapplicants Sholom’s forsisterhood help for on providing PACE/ us Household income may be higher in some cases, likeCancer to learn Institute more about timeaddressing volunteers the Karen unique Sherman concerns and Norman of the extraordinaireof Ashkenazi Sheila descent Bornstein forcarries furnishing a withPACENET hamentashen applicants. that were distributed to but call 610-374-3195 for more details. thiswill easyoffer way a freeto help Jewish Family ServiceWilikofskyJewish family. andthanks to Its our mission new volunteers is to offer Jan a participantsmutation in with the a BRCA1vast array or of BRACA2 gourmet seniorsBerks in Encorelong term centers care residences. in Fleetwood, Call today to schedule an appointment from now until April 15. program, Cancer community of support to women of all gene compared with 1 in more Mifflin, Reading, Strausstown and Genetics in the Dr. Jeffrey BlankJewish backgrounds,D.D.S. Living diagnosed with with than 400 Loss in the general population. Wernersville staff this program. Jewish Familyfor providingon Sunday Aprilprofessional 2 at 2 breast services cancer to or our at increased client. genetic Sharsheret educates both the cancer Appointments can be made by Berks Encore, 40 N. Ninth St., 610-374-3195 p.m. at the JCC. The program will be risk, by fosteringMondays, culturally-relevant May 10 and and 24, Jewish 3:00- communities 4:30 p.m. about that calling 610-374-3195 Ext. 209. risk. Sharsheret serves everyone who Appointments will be made through Enjoy Tax Benefits WhileFor Contributing more information to callreaches Sari atout 610-921-0624 for help. All programs April 14. BERKS ENCORE RECEIVES AWARDS serve women and men and more than Berks Community Action Program, Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program 15 percent of those helped were not 645 Penn Street, Reading will for Congratulations to Berks Encore employees Carolyn Krebs Jewish. the 12th straight year offer the VITA and Martha Sitler for receiving one of the Social Security Our April 2 “Cancer Genetics” program as well. It takes appointments program will be Sharsheret’s first on Mondays, Wednesdays and Administrations highest awards for their providing the public with Call Sari at 610-921-0624, What happens after Did you know the Hampton Inn WyomissingCall Sari is newlyat presentation in our area. All are Fridays until April 14. To make an information covering Social Security issues. e-mail [email protected] welcome.a hospital The program is stay?free, but appointment with BCAP for tax help, renovated? It’s true, when your family610-921-0624 comesor go to totown, reservations are requested. (Call JFS call 610-376-6571. Some evening Berks Encore enables older adults to achieve a better quality of why crowd your home? We www.charitableautoresources.comhave a heated indoor pool, at 610-921-0624).Join us for this informative seminarhours presented will be by available. life by providing a comprehensive program of services, referrals, or email Help with Tax Preparation When you arrive for your VITA education and advocacy. For more information call Berks Encore complimentary hot breakfast, and [email protected] a good night’s sleep on our This is the time of year when many appointment, it is important that you at 610-374-3195 or visit them at www.Berksencorepa.org famous Cloud 9 bed. Did you also know that we wash our of us are concerned about completing bring along the proper documentation. tax returns. Many senior citizens Without it, your VITA volunteer cannot comforters and pillows with every stay? Wouldn’t you want and low- to-middle income familiesThursday, complete May the 20 process. • 11:30 It is am important yourJewish loved Familyones here Servicewith us instead Food of Pantry worrying Collection where you’ll (generally $60,000 or less) cannot to bringat Manor all required at Market documents. Square See  afford to hire an accountant to assist publication IRS 376B and check out find room?Living With the Hampton’swith 100%Loss guarantee Some patients require additional  We are serving more families with completing their taxes. We are “what to bring” or call Sari at JFS – care after their hospital discharge. formerlyyou Bereavement can’teach go month!wrong. GroupPlease bring fortunate that our area has two non- 620-921-0624 for this information. Hampton Inn Wyomissing Planning ahead will make Mondays, Marchdonations  and 22, of canned 3:00- tuna, 4:30 soup, p.m. things easier for you after you leave. 1800 Papermill Road,fruits Wyomissing, and vegetables PA 19560to New leader discussesLearn JDC’s about the servicesimportance available 2131_Shalom_ad:Layout 1 9/8/09 11:57 AM PageKesher 1 Zion or the JCC. For more information call Sari at 610-921-0624 After serving 10 years as the youngest do you addressfor you ortheir a loved needs? one! 610-374-8100Thank you! dean of Columbia Law School, David PleaseAt RSVP the end by calling of 2015, 610-373-0800. there were close to Schizer, 48, has formally assumed his new 56,000 survivors in the Former Soviet Union We alsoA needf f i n plastici t y B anda n paperk P A grocery. c o m bags! duties as CEO of the American Jewish alone. While their numbers decrease, the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), the needs of the aging population increase. We Jewish community’s global humanitarian are always working to be more efficient in aid program. Schizer, a Brooklyn native, saving as many lives as possible, providing Pediatric and Adult Patients has a law degree from Yale and clerked food, medicine and home care. Some years  for Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg ago we replaced direct delivery of food Treating Ear, Nose, Throat Problems FREE parking in INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING  on the Supremethe Court. Berks Encore He headed a $353 packages and began to provide people  ThyroidBa nNodules,king Neck th Massese W & Sinusitisay million capital campaignparking lot at Columbia,Meals • withHousekeeping cash cards • Activities to buy • Transportationfood and medicine. doubling its traditionallocated at 9th fundraising and Another All-Inclusive mission Monthly is Rent to •help No Buy-ins sustain and expanding its faculty.and Court Street. develop local Jewish communities, often by New York Jewish Week interviewed making803 Penn grants Street to • localReading, institutions. PA 19601 It ShouldPhysicians: Be. 2347_Shalom_update:Layout 1 3/30/10 12:21 PM Page 1 Schizer in person and by phone. www.manoratmarketsquare.comHow does JDC • 610-373-0800manage to reach James P. Restrepo, M.D., FACS, ECNU What motivated you to leave your people in more than 70 countries? Now opeCharlesn i K.n Lutz, Ex M.D.,et eFACSr. post at Columbia and take the helm of Our budget last year was about $324 JDC? Af finityBanmillion.kPA .Aboutcom one-third comes from the Jeffrey S. Driben, M.D., FACS, ECNU I have long felt a need to pay Claims Conference and Restitution Funds. Scott J. Cronin, M.D. back to the community. I’m named The JDC board, endowments, foundations Products that for an orphaned grandfather who fled and thousands of individual donors make up make sNurseense Practitioner:, pogroms and the violence of the Russian about $84 million. Jewish Federations and Revolution in Ukraine. He took his two the government of Israel each provide about servicRosemariee that Montgomery younger siblings with him and came to $50 million, and this year, a new four-year makes friMS,en dCRNP,s. FNP-C  America to make a new life. I’m proud to $52 million partnership with the International be part of JDC’s work, Bwhicha has nevern kFellowshiping of Christians and Jews, will been more important, so I can repay my provide for elderly Jews in the FSU. These grandfather for all he did for me. funds allow us to maintain a staff of about What are JDC’s priorities at this time? 1,100 people, about half based in Israel, and Our mission is constant:the saving WJewish witha officesy aroundI thet world. lives and building Jewish life all over the How is JDC planning for the future? world. We are especially focused on the In our work with local communities, former Soviet Union, where many elderly one emphasis is on resilience and WYOMISSING | READING Jews are living on the equivalent of $2 a security. That includes dealing with SINKING SPRING | MUHLENBERG | EXETER day. Without us, Smanyh wouldo die.u Also,l dtrauma, B offeringe counseling. and training Audiologists: Venezuela looms large. The economy in terms of preventing terror attacks and Kathleen D. Vivaldi, AuD,61 FAAA0.89 8.7700 is in free fall and the Jewish community dealing with their aftermath. We have Melanie A. Appler, AuD, FAAA has gone from about 20,000 to 6,700, set aside 15 slots on our board [out of Matthew R. Bonsall, AuD, FAAA with growing needs. And of course there 180] for people in their 20s and 30s who is Israel, where about 18 percent of the bring their energy and commitment to population lives under the poverty line. the table. And we engage millennials Providing diagnostic and rehabilitative services for all types of hearing loss, for any age group. Hearing and Balance Disorders I was surprised at the outset to learn through our Entwine program, which State of the Art Hearing Aid Fittings how much we do in Israel, where we are catalyzes Jewish identity and a sense of In House Hearing Aid Repairs the innovation arm of the government. responsibility on a global level. We have We do pilot programs, and if they are 18,000 young Jewish adults involved successful, the government takes it and this year we will have 700 of them over and scales it up. For example, we serving communities overseas in short, WYOMISSING | READING ENT Head & Neck Specialists, PC now adapt apartments to the needs of medium and long-term programs. Young SINKING SPRING | MUHLENBERG | EXETER 985 Berkshire Blvd., Wyomissing residents with disabilities rather than people are drawn to our international 610-374-5599 • www.ent-hns.net placing them in residential facilities. humanitarian work, and we believe in As the population of Holocaust610.8 98building.7700 community at home through survivors decreases with time, how building community abroad. March 2017 SHALOM Page 15 May 2010 Shalom Page 10 Federation Honorial - Memorial Card Information HonorialsHonorials and and Memorials Memorials ContributionsContributions may may be be made made to to the the following following Funds: Funds: Please mail your payment with complete information to the Jewish FederationUJA-Federation Jewish Campaign Community Campaign $10 $10 Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 or bring to the Jewish Jewish Family Service $10 Jewish Family Service $10 Cultural Center, 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125, Wyomissing. You may set up Leo Camp Lecture Fund $10 a “savings account” for the purpose of sending cards. Please contact the JFSLeo FoodCamp Bank Lecture Fund $10 $25 Jewish Federation at 610-921-0624 for further information. JFS TaxiFood Transportation Bank Program $25 $25 Contributions as of Feb. 17 HolocaustJFS Taxi Transportation Library & Resource Program Center $20 $18 Contributions as of April 16 Holocaust Library & Resource Center $18 Sue B. Viener Memorial Fund (PJ Library) Doris Levin Fund $10 UJA-FederationIn memory of: Campaign PJDoris Library Levin FundFund $10 $10 InAnne honor Seltzer of: – Doris and Elliott Leisawitz Harry & Rose Sack Fund $10 AlbertSarah Boscov Simon’s – George engagement Viener – Vic and Dena Hammel Michael ClyminEvelyn (Ellen Thompson Abramson’s father) Fund – Susan and Richard D’Angelo$10 EvaAlma Bartos and – GeorgeEd Lakin’s Viener new home – Vic and Dena Hammel, Mildred & Ivan Frank Mehringer – Edith Mendelsohn GordonMeyer Lewis – George Viener & Rob Oppenheimer Sam Goodman’s engagement – Alma and Ed Lakin Rabbi Eliyahu Lipsker (Rabbi Yosef Lipsker’s father) – David and Debbie JewishAlyse Corbin’sFamily marriage Service – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin Doris Levin Fund In honor of: Goldberg Sue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer In memory of: – Shirley Friedman BirthAl Diamond’s of Selma special Cutler’s birthday great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr. Walter Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike MoyerJudy Schwank being selected the 2017 Agriculture newsmaker of the year RobinsonEvelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund (Lakin Preschool – Shirley Friedman In honor of: Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Debbie Goodman and Shoshana Tannenbaum – Carole and Mike Robinson Alan Seltzer’s new grandchild – Andy and Corinne Wernick John Moyer In memory of: Holocaust Library and Resource Center Anne Seltzer – Shirley Friedman In memory of: Get well: In memory of: – Louise Zeidman, George and Marcia Eligman Albert Boscov – Andy and Corinne Wernick HaroldAlbert BoscovLeifer – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer Shoshana Tannenbaum – Ken and Mary Holt, George and Sue Viener, Sue – Andy and Corinne Wernick Sharon Berman’s father Schlanger, Gordon and Carol Perlmutter, Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John Evelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund Deegan,Harry & Naum Rose and Sack Lyudmila Fund Ger, (Adult Louis Programming) and Katherine Danzico, Florence and InFederation memory of: Jewish Community Campaign MarvinIn memory Segal, of: Vic and Dena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & In honorShoshana of: Tannenbaum – Beth and Bob Caster IvanAlbert Gordon, Boscov Carrie – & Albert Stephen and Latman, Nancy Sack Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey Birth of Betsy and Al Katz’s new granddaughter, Mia Shoshana – Debbie Schneider,Sue Viener Norman – Albert & Rita and Wilikofsky, Nancy Sack Audrey Williams, Alan and Esther Strauss, JewishGoodman Family and John Service Moyer, Ellen and Don Abramson Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, In honor of: FriendshipJohn Castrege Circle and family, Fund Michael Geraci, Maxine & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, In memoryBirth of Carol of: and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Sue and George Viener, InLaura honor Higgins of: BetsyAnne and Seltzer Al Katz – Margie and Alan Leisawitz Birth of Sue Wilson’s granddaughter – Glenn and Gaye Corbin BatAlbert Mitzvah Boscov of Fran – Cheryl Mendelsohn’s and Eric Farber,granddaughter David and – Rosalye Debbie Goldberg,Yashek Yvonne Birth of Mary Wexler’s great-granddaughter – Glenn and Gaye Corbin Friendship Circle In memory of: Get well: TrumpShoshana Tannenbaum welcomes – Jill and Gladys Skaist Netanyahu, butHarold whatLeifer – Glenn comesand Gaye Corbin next?

By Alan M. Dershowitz Gurion. many voluntarily. without negotiating with Israel. HolocaustIsrael’s longtime Prime education Minister Each leader spreading would like to be the one inIt Berksmust be remembered County that Israel President Trump must make it crystal Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed to the who succeeds in bringing a peaceful has twice in recent times offered the clear that unless the Palestinians negotiate ContinuedWhite House from by newly Page elected 5 President alsoresolution that tothe the studentsIsraeli-Palestinian are genuinely conflict. PalestiniansOn a wider a state note, on 95 percentthere haveof the justicea reasonable and Holocaust solution remembrance with Israel, today. they silenceDonald Trump.is not the What reason can we why expect survivors from interestedSo many others in hearing ­—‚ people their ofstories. good will I know and beenWest Bank.many Inrecent 2000-2001, developments then Prime in Iwill am never heartened have to a hearstate. that President three additional Barack arethis initialinvited meeting in. Instead, between that two factor strong- is myconsiderable students wereeffort genuinely — have beeninterested unable in HolocaustMinister Ehud education Barak and in Berksthen President County schoolsObama didin Berks not send County that willmessage be offering with presentwilled national because leaders? of the immense respect hearingto achieve Hilde’s this goal. story There and manyis no certaintystill talk andBill Clinton the surrounding made a generous areas. offer. WithinYasser theseclarity, courses especially for their when students. he ordered his studentsI know have them for theseboth —individuals Netanyahu and aboutthat Trump it now, and several Netanyahu weeks can later. succeed theArafat, past who month was being I have advised met bywith Jimmy two UnitedThough Nations the Representative fourth quarter to of allow the better than Trump — and I believe they when so many others have come close individualsCarter, rejected who it andare startedin the processa violent schoola one-sided year anti-Israelhas begun, resolution there are to stillbe will get along well. They are both no- but have never been able to close the ofintifada, developing in which a more Holocaust than 4000 course people to manypassed additionalby the Security opportunities Council. that nonsense pragmatists who understand deal. Both are respected for their deal- bewere offered killed. Thenat their in 2008, local Primehigh Ministerschool. remain.President I just Trumpspoke tomust an undergraduatereassure Prime the relationship between economic making capabilities — Trump in business, OneEhud Olmertgentleman made anwas even from more Lancaster generous ethicsMinister class Netanyahu at Penn that Statehe will Berksapply development and political progress. We Netanyahu in domestic politics. County.offer, to whichThe other, Mahmoud Gerry Abbas Evans, did isnot a regardingpressure — the perhaps ethical/moral through implications our Sunni all know of Trump’s business background But there are considerable barriers teacherrespond. atAnd Hamburg in 2005, HighPrime School. Minister I ofallies the —Holocaust. on the Palestinian I found the Authority, students and focus on jobs and trade. Less to achieving a peaceful resolution. haveAriel Sharon been unilaterallyin contact ended with thetwo military other toand be not receptive only on Israel,and inquisitive as the Obama and well-known is Netanyahu’s business Netanyahu and his Palestinian localoccupation teachers, and settlements Pete Ruckelshaus in the Gaza at haveAdministration been asked did. toHistory deliver shows a similar that background. Like Trump, Netanyahu counterpart, Mahmoud Abbas, each TwinStrip, Valleyonly to and be Jimgreeted Konecke with thousands at Wilson programAmerican inadministrations the classes that reallythe same have went to business school and began his have domestic constituencies that would Highof rocket School. attacks Pete and has terror resurrected tunnels from a professorIsrael’s back also — teachesnot to stab, at Reading but to support Area career as a businessman, working for oppose the compromise necessary to courseHamas. on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community— are more likely College. to persuade Israel to offer Boston Consulting Group. When he achieve a two-state solution. Some of Valley,Much and has itschanged first since offering these is Israeli during compromises.As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, entered politics, he helped transform Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition partners theoffers current and actions.fourth quarter. The current He isIsraeli very daughterSo, I hope of the that late Netanyahu local Holocaust emerged Israel from an agrarian-based economy oppose a two-state solution in which excitedgovernment about is not offering likely to thisoffer coursemore than to survivorfrom the Richard White Yashek,House meetingis speaking with at into “start-up nation,” which has become Israel would turn over most of the West hiswhat students was rejected and byhas the even Palestinians. lined up Twinthe confidence Valley, Hamburg in American and Fleetwood. support to a technological superpower with a strong Bank to establish a Palestinian state. severalSo the pressure guest speakers must now including be placed Rabbi on standRight up now to thoseAlbright in Collegehis cabinet is hosting who economy. He is the Alexander Hamilton And many West Bank Palestinians — not Brianthe Palestinian Michelson, leadership Kim Yashek to make and Hildegood anoppose exhibit the titled,two-state “Stories solution Among and whoUs: of Israel, to David Ben Gurion’s Jefferson. to mention Hamas in Gaza — oppose Gernsheimer.faith counter-offers. That pressure can Washingtonwant to expand State settlement Connections activity. to Andthe Trump has to admire that. recognizing the legitimacy of Israel as onlyJim come Konecke from the is teachingUnited States. at Wilson This Holocaust,I hope the LessonsPalestinian in Genocide.” leadership Thewill Trump will also admire Netanyahu’s the nation-state of the Jewish people. Centralis so because Junior theHigh rest but of will the be international moving up exhibitunderstand includes that the they stories have of no five option Holocaust other strong nationalism and love of country. They also demand the “return” of millions tocommunity Wilson High — theSchool United at the Nations, beginning the survivorsthan to accept and onethe Netanyahuliberator and offer has to He has made Israel great, militarily, of Palestinian refugees to Israel, despite ofEuropean next school Union, year. the Hecourts will in be The offering Hague, a receivednegotiate anywhere,good reviews. anytime, It is and definitely with no technologically and economically. He may the reality that there are probably only a coursethe BDS on movement Nazi Germany. — all disincentivize His students the worthpreconditions. a visit! It Perhapswill be at Albright’sthen we will Gingrich finally soon become Israel’s longest serving prime hundred thousand or so actual refugees willPalestinians be studying from this making period compromises, of German Librarysee a reasonable through May resolution 10. to the age-old minister, surpassing the legendary Ben who themselves left Israel in 1948-1949, historyby falsely in tellingdepth, them including they cana study get aof state the conflict. *** rise of anti-Semitism, the initial period of Jennifer Goss teaches social studies the Holocaust and the Final Solution. The in the Fleetwood School District and latter part of the course will look at post-war specializes in Holocaust education. Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests!

READING 2801 Papermill Road Wyomissing, Pennsylvania GROUP RATES AVAILABLE Call Alice for a Site Tour

(610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Page 16 SHALOM March 2017 How a pro-Palestinian reporter changed his views on Israel By Hunter Stuart occupying the West Bank, stop blockading a peace rally,” according to his son. By to. I’ll be friends with some of them for JPost.com Gaza, and Palestinians will stop killing contrast, his killers had been paid 20,000 the rest of my life. But almost without fail, In the summer of 2015, just three you!” It seemed so obvious to me; how shekels to storm the bus that morning with their views of the conflict and of Israel days after I moved to Israel for a year- could they not realize that all this violence their cowardly guns. You can still see their and of Jewish people in general were and-a-half stint freelance reporting in the was a natural, if unpleasant, reaction to faces plastered around East Jerusalem on extremely disappointing. region, I wrote down my feelings about their government’s actions? posters hailing them as martyrs. Even the kindest, most educated, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A friend of It wasn’t until the violence became Being personally affected by the upper-class Palestinians reject 100 mine in New York had mentioned that it personal that I began to see the Israeli conflict caused me to question how percent of Israel — not just the occupation would be interesting to see if living in Israel side with greater clarity. As the “Stabbing forgiving I’d been of Palestinian violence of East Jerusalem and the West Bank. would change the way I felt. He probably Intifada” kicked into full gear, I traveled previously. Liberals, human-rights groups They simply will not be content with a two- suspected that things would look differently to the impoverished East Jerusalem and most of the media, though, continued state solution — what they want is to return from the front-row seat, so to speak. neighborhood of Silwan for a story. As to blame Israel for being attacked. Ban to their ancestral homes in 1948 Israel, Boy was he right. soon as I arrived, a Palestinian kid who Ki-moon, for example, who at the time within the Green Line. And they want the Before I moved to Jerusalem, I was was perhaps 13 years old pointed at me was the head of the United Nations, said Israelis who live there now to leave. They very pro-Palestinian. Almost everyone I and shouted “Yehud!” which means “Jew” in January 2016 — as the streets of my almost never speak of coexistence; they knew was. I grew up Protestant in a quaint, in Arabic. Immediately, a large group of his neighborhood were stained with the blood speak of expulsion, of taking back “their” politically correct New England town; friends who’d been hanging out nearby of innocent Israeli civilians — that it was land. almost everyone around me was liberal. were running toward me with a terrifying “human nature to react to occupation.” To me, however morally complicated And being liberal in America means you sparkle in their eyes. “Yehud! Yehud!” they In fact, there is no justification for killing the creation of Israel may have been, support pluralism, tolerance and diversity. shouted. I felt my heart start to pound. I someone, no matter what the political however many innocent Palestinians You support gay rights, access to abortion shouted at them in Arabic,“I’m not Jewish, situation may or may not be. were killed and displaced from their and gun control. I’m not Jewish!” over and over. I told them Similarly, the way international NGOs, homes in 1948 and again in 1967, Israel The belief that Israel is unjustly bullying that I was an American journalist who European leaders and others criticized is now a fact, accepted by almost every the Palestinians is an inextricable part of loved Palestine. They calmed down after Israel for its “shoot to kill” policy during government in the world (including many this pantheon. that, but the look in their eyes when they this wave of attacks began to annoy me. in the Middle East). But the ongoing desire “I believe Israel should relinquish first saw me is something I’ll never forget. In almost any nation, when the police of Palestinians to wipe Israel off the map control of all of the Gaza Strip and most of Later, at a house party in Amman, I met a confront a terrorist in the act of killing is unproductive and backward- looking, the West Bank,” I wrote on July 11, 2015, Palestinian guy who’d grown up in Silwan. people, they shoot him dead and human- and the West must be very careful not to from a park near my new apartment in “If you were Jewish, they probably would rights groups don’t make a peep. Did encourage it. Jerusalem’s Baka neighborhood. “The have killed you,” he said. Amnesty International condemn Barack I know a lot of Jewish-Israelis who occupation is an act of colonialism that I made it back from Silwan that day Obama or Abdel Fattah al-Sisi or Angela are willing to share the land with Muslim only creates suffering, frustration and in one piece; others weren’t so lucky. In Merkel or François Hollande when their Palestinians, but for some reason finding despair for millions of Palestinians.” Jerusalem, and across Israel, the attacks police forces killed a terrorist? Nope. But a Palestinian who feels the same way was During my first few weeks in Jerusalem, against Jewish Israelis continued. My they made a point of condemning Israel. near impossible. Countless Palestinians I found myself constantly getting into attitude began to shift, probably because What’s more, I started to notice that told me they didn’t have a problem with arguments about the conflict with my the violence was, for the first time, affecting the media were unusually fixated on Jewish people, only with Zionists. They roommates and in social settings. Unlike me directly. highlighting the moral shortcomings of seemed to forget that Jews have been waspy New England, Israel does not afford I found myself worrying that my wife Israel, even as other countries acted in living in Israel for thousands of years, the privilege of politely avoiding unpleasant might be stabbed while she was on her infinitely more abominable ways. If Israel along with Muslims, Christians, Druse, political conversations. way home from work. Every time my threatened to relocate a collection of atheists, agnostics and others, more often During one such argument, one of my phone lit up with news of another attack, Palestinian agricultural tents, as they did in than not, in harmony. Instead, the vast roommates — an easygoing American- if I wasn’t in the same room with her, I the summer of 2015, for example, the story majority believe that Jews only arrived in Jewish guy in his mid-30s — seemed to immediately sent her a text to see if she made international headlines for weeks. Israel in the 20th century and, therefore, be suggesting that all Palestinians were was OK. The liberal outrage was endless. Yet, don’t belong here. terrorists. I became annoyed and told him Then a friend of mine — an older when Egypt’s president demolished an Of course, I don’t blame Palestinians that only a small minority supported terrorist Jewish Israeli guy who’d hosted my wife entire neighborhood in the Sinai Peninsula for wanting autonomy or for wanting to attacks. My roommate promptly pulled out and I for dinner at his apartment in the in the name of national security, people return to their ancestral homes. But as his laptop, called up a 2013 Pew Research capital’s Talpiot neighborhood — told scarcely noticed. Where do these double long as Western powers and NGOs and poll and showed me the screen. I saw that us that his friend had been murdered standards come from? I’ve come to believe progressive people in the US and Europe Pew had done a survey of thousands of by two Palestinians on a city bus not far it’s because the Israeli-Palestinian conflict fail to condemn Palestinian attacks against people across the Muslim world, asking from his apartment. I knew the story well. appeals to the appetites of progressive Israel, the deeper the conflict will grow and them if they supported suicide bombings I’d interviewed the family of one of the people in the West. They see it as a white, the more blood will be shed on both sides. against civilians in order to “defend Islam Palestinian guys who’d carried out the first world people beating on a poor, third I’m back in the U.S. now, living in a from its enemies.” The survey found that attack. His family told me how he was world one. It’s easier for them to become liberal enclave where most people — 62 percent of Palestinians believed such a promising young entrepreneur who outraged watching two radically different including Jews — tend to support the acts were justified. And not only that, the was pushed over the edge by the daily civilizations collide than it is watching Palestinians’ bid for statehood. I’m no Palestinian territories were the only place humiliations wrought by the occupation. I Alawite Muslims kill Sunni Muslims in longer convinced it’s such a good idea. in the Muslim world where a majority of ended up writing a very sympathetic story Syria, for example, because the difference If the Palestinians are given their own citizens supported terrorism. about the killer for a Jordanian news site between Alawite and Sunni is too subtle to state in the West Bank, who’s to say they The statistic stuck with me. called Al Bawaba News. fit into a compelling narrative that can be wouldn’t elect Hamas, a group committed Less than a month later, in October Writing about the attack with the easily summarized on Facebook. to Israel’s destruction? That’s exactly what 2015, a wave of Palestinian terrorist detached \ eye of a journalist, I was I admire the liberal desire to support the happened in Gaza. Fortunately, Gaza attacks against Jewish-Israelis began. able to take the perspective that most underdog. The problem is that their beliefs is somewhat isolated, But having them Nearly every day, an angry, young Muslim news outlets wanted — that Israel was often don’t square with reality. in control of the West Bank and half of Palestinian was stabbing or trying to run to blame for Palestinian violence. But There’s an old saying that goes, “If Jerusalem is something Israel obviously over someone with his car. A lot of the when I learned that my friend’s friend you want to change someone’s mind, doesn’t want. It would be suicide. And no violence was happening in Jerusalem, was one of the victims, it changed my first make them your friend.” The friends I country can be expected to consent to its some of it just steps from where my wife way of thinking. I felt horrible for having made in Israel forever changed my mind own destruction. and I had moved into an apartment of publicly glorified one of the murderers. about the country and about the Jewish Now I don’t know what to think. I’m our own, and lived and worked and went The man who’d been murdered, Richard need for a homeland. But I also spent squarely in the center of one of the most grocery shopping. Lakin, was originally from New England, a lot of time traveling in the Palestinian polarized issues in the world. I guess, At first I didn’t feel a lot of sympathy like me, and had taught English to Israeli territories getting to know Palestinians. at least, I can say that, no matter how for Israelis. Actually, I felt hostility. I felt and Palestinian children at a school in I met some incredible people in these socially unacceptable it was, I was willing that they were the cause of the violence. Jerusalem. He believed in making peace places; I saw generosity and hospitality to change my mind. If only more people I wanted to shake them and say, “Stop with the Palestinians and “never missed unlike anywhere else I’ve ever traveled would do the same. Israelis lead secret operation to deliver coats to refugees in Syria

Refugees in Syria will soon be and the Combat Genocide Association sensitive nature of the situation. and Druze neighborhoods across Israel. receiving donated winter supplies — but — collected about 3,000 boxes of “I thought people would be reluctant “The most moving part of the operation they won’t know that the coats and boots blankets, coats, sleeping bags, gloves, to support an effort they would not get for me is to see thousands of Israelis keeping them warm came from Israel, an boots and other winter supplies as part credit for,” Gilad Perry, Dror Israel’s from different religions join forces in enemy state. of an initiative dubbed “Operation Human international collaborations director, a humanistic effort, emphasizing the Any logos or tags featuring Hebrew Warmth.” said in a statement. “I was amazed to similarities in the core values of all of writing have been removed from the more The items have been taken to see how wrong I was. The generosity of us who simply try to make good on this than 100 tons of supplies collected by a collection point, a representative people just caring for those who suffer planet, no matter what our backgrounds three Israeli groups, in order “to protect confirmed to JTA. From there, a partner from the cold winter on the other side may be,” Perry said. the effort and the recipients,” according aid organization is facilitating the delivery of the border, in an ‘enemy country,’ HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed to a statement. of the goods to the refugees, who overwhelmed me.” (Youth Who Work and Learn) is a The organizers — the Zionist won’t know their country of origin. The This year the initiative, which began in sister movement of Habonim Dror, youth movement HaNoar HaOved representative said the delivery date and 2014, saw a record number of donations, long affiliated with the Labor Zionist VeHaLomed, its alumni group Dror Israel method could not be revealed due to the with supplies collected from Jewish, Arab movement.