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 46, 40 No. No. 4 5 use the Center regularly or from ‘time MAY APRIL to time’, 2010 2016 we always appreciate your visits andADAR encourageIyar-Sivan 2-NISAN your feedback. 5770 5776 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 ShalomTammyPurim K. Mitgang, Executivefun Director,around Jewish Federation the of community Reading/Jewish Cultural Center The Journal of the Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by the Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa. Page 12 ThereThis year’s is noPurim free by Chabad lunch and the — Jewish or appearances.is there? There were Sholom presented its first Volume 40 No.celebration 3 March 23 and 24 FederationMARC of Reading.h 2010 plenty of activities including Adar-NisanPurim Spiel, featuring 5770 writer featured lots of entertainment In keeping with the sports games, arts and crafts and a and co-star Mike Pardo’s County Jews have gone to the JCC’s preschool to look at all expenditures, making sure that we forBy thePaul whole D. Cohn family. theme, popular ballpark treats photo booth. humorous take on the Book Federation president for its excellent learning curriculum.Many times are being good stewards of your contributions. Jewish The activities culminated were served and local mascots On Purim eve Kesher of Esther. It included a long FreeINSIDE Jewish The 2010 Jewish the preschool is a gateway for Jewish families in We are making progress in all areas of your Program at with a Megillah Reading and Slapshot of the Reading Zion Synagogue held list of song parodies based Communitybooks for FederationEllen Azrael, JewishLarry Rotenberg Annual and Hilde GernsheimerBerks County, where they can meet and make Federation. We are now in a position to focus FreeAlvernia Jewish to Purim at the Stadium event at Royals1100 and Screwball Berkshire of the a Megillah Boulevard reading and on hits from stage, TV and kidsHigh available School 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 Ellenthe Chabad Azrael, Larry Center, Rotenberg sponsored and Hilde Reading Gernsheimer Fightin Phils made Reform Congregation Oheb popular song. goingpeace strong as 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’ve been here! yearthrough nears its end MakingFederation’s major sure source we nevera diversity forget experience at an early age. However the bottom line is that we 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 Culturalasking for, Center and need at 1100 your Berkshirehelp. And guess support the many important Federation provides many interesting and what? People do need a free meal every so Page 11 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 the very near future. For those of 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 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 Young leaders 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 offerGuitarist great 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 Reflectionsto 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 Guitaristpromise 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. forto communityperformPage 4 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 annual 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 22 sponsoredRemembrance• Jewish our Family Services eventsfollowed, of the have Holocaust, to remember those who and servesThere all age groupsis no and is free dedicated lunchto helping Israel. — Although or isour worldthere? is rapidly be your way of saying that you believe in and Foes of Israel HolocaustDay, which survived,continue andto put the the generations events of that the maintaining and strengthening the quality changing, Israel is still a young country, and support our local Jewish community. It should start Pagecampaign 2 Remembrancewas held at followed,Holocaust have into modern-day to remember context. and Join us for final ofBy individual Paul D. 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Page 16 people’s will to survive, one only not believe in the Holocaust or who Page 7 hasneeds. any doubtDid you about know the JewishJFS coordinates continue to educateand resources those who so shedo can remain strong and It should be your way to say you care. needstransportation to study for theYemin the Holocaust. elderly and Orde infirmedattempt andtoscience twist vibrant. the truth Ourof what funding programactually also helps Jews nurtures in other For everyonecuriosity who has already pledged, I people’sAlthough will to one survive, can studyone only the nothappened. believe Again,in the aHolocaust special thank or who you needsprovides to study counseling the Holocaust. to members of ourattempt Jewish to twist countries the truth of whatwho actuallywant to move to Israel, or who say “thank you.” For those of you who are still eventsThe leading Gelfand up the Holocaust Science and otherto Hilde, similar Ellen andsites.These Larry for sharing science their Trudy Katz and Ellen Azrael David,learning Larry in and class,” Alison said Rotenberg a student. “… community?Although oneIn addition,can study JFS the provides happened. an Again,have a specialserious thank needs you in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. Enrichmenttry to put these Program events into provides historical activitiesthoughts andare memoriesfun and, withinteresting, us. Everything I discovered during this Jewish Family eventsoutreach leading program up the and Holocaust acts as and a clearinghouse to Hilde, Ellen and LarryAs I mentionedfor sharing their above, Trudy the Katz funds and raised EllenPhotos Azrael by by PleaseBarbara pledgeDavid,Nazimov Larry now. except and As asAlison you noted haveRotenberg previously Service thefor visionother agenciesand support in our to area.create As piquingeconomic the thestudent’s Campaign interest represent in the largest portion of heard me say,activity Jews changed have amy rich thinking tradition and of try to put these events into historical thoughts and memories with us. Photos by Barbara Nazimov except as noted 2010 totals scienceconditions opportunities have worsened, for youth JFS in hasscience seen an and the curiosity Federation’s about budget.the Last year you helped leading by example.knowledge All in ofthe us, field no ofmatter space howand as ofPage Feb. 8 19 YeminincreaseYashek Orde in Educationalpeople lecturelooking Initiatives for help. world.to focuscontribute on $600,000 France to the Campaign. A few large or smallit’s thereally contribution, great …” have a chance (YOEI)Yashek• Lakin partner Early communities Educationlecture who Center to – Additionally,JCC’s focus years onago,the our GelfandFrance Campaign was over $1 million. to become leaders.In addition It all adds up.to Allproviding of us can Jewish wouldpreschool Thisotherwise andyear’s kindergarten never Richard have have suchJ. Yashek a longScience historyefforts Enrichment So to youbetter Program can understand see offers that our these annual campaign is change the scienceworld for programming the better. in partner experiences.lecture will be held Thursday, Mayopportunities terrible for events academic actually success accomplished educational communities, the Community of providingThis year’s quality Richard education J. Yashekin a nurturing, efforts moreto better important understand than ever. these The Federation has Free lunch…I don’t think so. It is worth its 6,Yemin at 8 Ordep.m. provides in Memorial education Chapel in at which their youth aims? discover Or have untapped they actually Gelfand Enrichment Program offers Campaign positivelecture environment. will be held Many Thursday, generations May of Berksterrible takenevents steps actually to help accomplished reduce our expenses and weight in gold. andAlbright other services College. to The children speaker from will capabilities be distorted and new historical interests. understandingYouth similar opportunities for YOEI’s $110,708 6, at 8 p.m. in Memorial Chapel at their aims? Or have they actually aroundRichard the J.world Golsan, who Ph.D., are new a professor to can “dream”and challenged about their future: the notionboth of the young men’s and young women’s Albright College. The speaker will be distorted historical understanding 20162010 totals theof country French alongat Texas with A&M other University. at- in terms uniqueness of higher education of the Holocaust and in as well as gap-year leadership programs for Richard J. Golsan, Ph.D., a professor and challenged the notion of the as of April 19 riskHe populations. is the author Yemin or editor Orde ofis moreterms ofthe future terrible careers. singularity of the fate of its immigrant youth, or Mechina, in as2010 of March totals 18 of French at Texas A&M University. uniqueness of the Holocaust as well as supportedthan a dozenby Jewish books. Federation He has of been aTopics victims? discussed This lecture in many will explore of these Hebrew. Activities take a hands-on as of April 19 He is the author or editor of more the terrible singularity of the fate of its Jewish Reading’svisiting Israelprofessor Now atfund. the Sorbonnethe in scienceissues throughworkshops a discussion include of recent approach to learning and field trips Jewish Community than a dozen books. He has been a victims? This lecture will explorehands-on these approach. Community Paris,The Gelfand where he program taught courses brings on engineering,the works of energy, literature electricity, and film as well as are provided to see experimentation CampaignJewish visiting professor at the Sorbonne in issues through a discussion of recent“First of all I loved the topic and Campaign interactivememory science of World workshops War II infrom postwar insulation the 1990’sand conduction, trials of French matter citizens on in action. Community Paris, where he taught courses on the works of literature and film as thewell activity.as I finally understand $161,828 someFrench of Israel’s literature leading and culture.institutes and materials,charges astronomy,of crimes against physics, humanity for Participants in the young Campaign memory of World War II in postwar the 1990’s trials of French citizensthe on subject for the first time, and $273,000 to at-riskFor youth more around than thethree country decades magnetism, complicity metal in the and Final robots. Solution. women’s program, known as *Includes transfers from French literature and culture. charges of crimes against humanitylearning for through trial and error, andFrance is providing has been opportunities preoccupied for withStudents The discover lecture isa heldlove in ofmemory of IsraElite, recently spent two Donor$273,000 Advised Funds For more than three decades complicity in the Final Solution.experimentation and implementation thesetraumatic youth momentsto visit museums, and events learning of Richard when J. Yashek,they are a Holocaustable to survivor intensive days at the renowned France has been preoccupied with The lecture is held in memoryis much of more interesting and laboratories,its recent past.greenhouses, But have and national explore and new longtime concepts Berks Countywith a resident. Weizmann Institute of Science. traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivorchallenging than the regular way of 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 April 2016 A question worth answering By Richard Nassau sat in my grandmother’s formal dining the four questions. And that is why from previous generations, but our pride Development Director room. A dining room reserved for special Federation. and hope for the next generation and Someone once occasions like Passover; an occasion The work we do because of your anticipation before the four questions asked me if I tired of when the whole family gathered together support builds community, develops are the same. people asking, “Why and asked questions in unison. It was Jewish identity, provides for the next Why Federation? is a question I like Federation?” It is a a room that filled with anticipation as it generation through legacies, and helps to answer. I like to think that if I asked question I hear often. became time to ask the four questions. families. Those are just a few of the my grandmother why Federation she’d I told them no, though My grandmother even came in from the answers to why Federation. I wonder also be able to answer it and not just I have been tempted kitchen to listen. Perhaps it was pride which one was meaningful for my with a simple, why not. Her answer to answer it with the or maybe just the hope she felt for a grandparents. I’m not sure, because would be about community, and legacy, reply to the old joke, “Why do Jews ask different generation. outside the Seder I didn’t ask my and identity; except she wouldn’t use so many questions?” Why not? The I wonder what my grandparents would grandparents a lot of “why” questions. those words. She’d simply say, “So real answer for me is about family and think about my Seder. Questions are still I already knew how important it was we can celebrate Passover together community. This is especially true as we being asked. We still use a “formal” dining for my grandparents to be part of a as a family next year.” That is why approach Passover. room, though it is better described as a Jewish community. Passover reminds Federation. Passover is a holiday filled with work-space, study area, and sometimes me of this fact and also why it remains Through your support, we work to questions. Why not? What would a Seder pet sanctuary. I know if my grandmother important for us to be part of a Jewish ensure everyone can celebrate Passover be without the questions we know so well? was still with us I’d find her busy in the community. My Seder is different from my together this year and next year. I I can recall as a young child practicing the kitchen waiting to peek around the corner grandparents, at least on the surface. We wish you a Passover holiday filled with four questions under my breath as we as a new generation of children recited also do things differently as a community questions and anticipation. Young leaders helping to forge vibrant identity for community

By Haia Mazuz Tracy told the group that when Berks County their home. An interesting observation by a her husband initially mentioned Luba has been in the area for six newcomer is that she found Reading , הרבח ,The Hebrew word Chevrah means society when pronounced with that he was interviewing for a job in years, but only after Tracy convinced intriguing and more sophisticated the accent on the second syllable. Reading, (Tracy grew up in a Jewish her to join the board of Federation than she had expected. We should But when pronounced with the accent suburb of Philadelphia) she told this year did she realize the incredible all see ourselves in the eyes of the on the first syllable it means “the him to cancel the interview because breadth of programs “we” provide for newcomer. gang”, a social network. “there is no Jewish life in Reading” Jews of all ages. She singled out In response I am asking: What a privilege it was to be invited and she wouldn’t consider moving the Better Together program, pairing 1. How do we learn more about to the home of Luba Karchevsky to there. Nick told her he could not students of our Jewish Community needs in the community? meet the young and future leaders refuse an interview, so she decided High School with senior citizens. 2. What mechanisms can of Jewish Federation of Reading, the to investigate the community. Luba lost her grandparents at an we put in place to have women of Chevra. Nick Rossi joined my husband’s early age and found it touching that better communication with This gathering on a recent Sunday medical practice. Tracy is now not this connection is being pursued. everyone? morning was the idea of Federation only an enthusiastic board member We have a group of young Jewish 3. Do we need to develop a board members Tracy Rossi, Michele but recruiter extraordinaire, bringing Families (some who moved here marketing package explaining Leisawitz, and Luba Karchevsky. new young members to the board. after researching) who appreciate why Reading is a good match Their goal is to spread the word She attended the Jewish Federations the vibrant Jewish Community in for a Jewish family? If so, about the amazing work of our Jewish of North America General Assembly Reading, an important social network with whom should we share Federation of Reading and recruit in Washington, D.C., last November for them and their families. I now it? more members. and convinced me to attend the event better understand this. I propose we banish the hand- Also there were Linda Bloom, as well Among the concerns of our young wringing associated with the Anna Bluestone, Tatyana Erlikh, Michele grew up in Allentown, families : admission that we are facing the Amanda Feigenheimer, Jessica has family in Reading and married • Jewish preschool — Lakin fits challenge of smaller populations Leisawitz, Michele Leisawitz and a Reading native. Many offspring of the bill and less involvement similar to Jennifer Weissman Woodward. our community leave the area after • Sports programs — Body Jewish communities all over the After Luba’s sumptuous brunch college. However, Michele and her Zone, consider additional U.S. Tracy, Luba, and Michele spoke husband, Ben, chose to stay close activities Chevra shows us that by being about their reasons for the get to family and are now part of the • Kosher meat — put together a positive and proactive, our community together. renaissance of young Jews making list of places to buy will thrive. October 2012 SHALOM Page 3 April 2016 SHALOM Page 3 From the President’s Desk Looking forward to a great New Year DON’T MISS OUT By Alvin Katz in need. Providing food, assistance with visit, among other sites, Yemin Orde, and Be sure to pick up the October Chairman expenses and many other aspects of getting Meir Panim, which we support through Recent events show powerI wantof to takeour this communitythose less fortunate back on their feet. your contributions. Yemin Orde is a youth Berks County Living time to wish all of you a Our ܁nance committee has been working village in the Carmel mountains near Haifa magazine featuring a special By William D. Franklin which means community. is not merely a group of individuals; it architecture of the Holocaust. Our 92Y very Happy and Sweet overtime ensuring that our funds are well which caters to youth in need, providing President A wonderful aspect of the Community is a communal entity that far surpasses series continues with a live screening of supplement produced by the New Year. cared and accounted for. I also want to them with shelter, emotional support and We had big events Shabbat was that people of all ages the sum of its parts. It is a community of World Politics: Israel and its Neighbors Jewish Federation of Reading. As we enter into the recognize Tammy Mitgang and her entire an excellent education. Meir Panim is, for on consecutive from all three religious institutions — actions that cares for its members and on Sunday, April 10 at 5 p.m. here at the New Year, we reflect Federation/JCC staff who work tirelessly the lack of a better description, similar to weekends early RCOS, Kesher Zion and Chabad — everyone around it. Bound together by JCC. The final film of this year’sReading Special thanks to Campaign on what we have for you. what we would call a soup kitchen but with in March. First we joined together for a beautiful service our history, our faith and our purpose, Jewish Film Series will be “Run Boy Run” Co-Chairs Howard & Victoria accomplished this past As we enter the New Year, I am happy to a different concept. Here those in need can had more than 200 with wonderful music provided by we will continue to build our Reading at 7 p.m. on April 20 at the Fox Berkshire. year and what challenges lie ahead for us announce that we have a Mission to Israel get hot meals that are SERVED to them, not Hafetz for spearheading the community members Gabriella Michelson and a delicious Jewish community — one that protects We will commemorate Yom Hashoah in the coming year. Your Federation has this month in conjunction with the Allentown cafeteria style as here in the States, so that project, which raised $19,200 for attend our Community dinner. Many stayed long after dinner, us and those in need, where we can here at the JCC on May 4 with a provided many interesting programs and Federation. With the numbers participating, they don’t feel like they are getting a handout. Shabbat at RCOS, table-hopping and kibitzing with each pray, sing and learn together as we documentary and candle lightings. We Federation! See Page 7 for a list speakers this past year. We have attended this should be a very worthwhile Mission. In addition, Meir Panim serves thousands and then more than other. Similarly, the following weekend maintain our Jewish ‘oneness’ across will also commemorate Yom Hazikaron of advertisers and patrons. to those less fortunate, maintained our state They will be visiting many sites and meeting of hot meals to schoolchildren throughout 120 came to honor the installation of Rabbi Brian and Holly Michelson and space and time. and celebrate Yom Ha’autzmaut here at certi܁ed Nursery School. We completed with some well-known names in Israel Israel and maintains a Goodwill-like facility Rabbi Matthew Abelson at Kesher many others from RCOS joined the KZ The next two months will give us the JCC on May 11. On May 22 we wrap Look for it at local retailers and a very successful Gratz College program politics and military. I feel certain that many to help furnish clothing and furniture to those Zion. Coincidentally, the Parsha for congregants to welcome our newest more opportunities to come together. up the year with a short annual meeting, a 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 the Community Shabbat, Vayak-hel or community rabbi. On March 30, we have the Yashek picnic lunch, games and Israeli dancing. program. Our Jewish Family Service has understanding of Israel and its position in Jews throughout the world who receive your Senior Expo Oct. 23 at BodyZone. “assembled” is related to the term “kehila” Vayak-hel teaches us that a Kehilla Lecture at Albright College exploring the Join us!! again done a wonderful job helping those the world and the Middle East. They will support, I thank you. Meet the Rossis From the President’s Desk By Larry Rotenberg Tracy’s father was not Jewish, but Beingvitality to us. Alma working parents.. Chairman her mother, who died young, of breast And nowhere is this more true than But I have saved the best for the last. I recently spent cancer, was. And her mother’s dying Byin the Tammy case K.of theMitgang Rossis. EastLuca, troubled the son, washer, activeand she and knewinterested, that ground in Ethiopia — the Jewish Agency bears their name, and as the ܁rst female a delightful hour wish was to have her children brought PresidentWhen they contemplated moving lifeand for he Israelcontinued — with though his itown is activities a ܁rst-­world for Israel and the American Jewish Joint President of the Jewish Federation of interviewing the Rossi up as Jews. here,Alma Tracy Lakin was would greeted be and welcomed economywhile checking like the in on USA, the status was dif܁cult of the and Distribution Committee (JDC) — feared Reading, she and Dan Tannenbaum, family. This consisted Her father lived up to this task theby Michele ܁rst to Leisawitz, pooh-­pooh who introduced complicated.interview, from time to time. for the Ethiopian Jewish community’s an executive director of the Federation, of Tracy, the Mom; heroically. Tracy and her siblings anyher intonotion all thethat local she Jewish activities, WhenSamantha, I interviewed though younger, her for isa typicalvideo safety when rebel forces threatened brokered a partnership with her alma Nick, the Dad, and attended Har Zion and its religious wasincluding amazing, the Lakinspecial Preschool, where thatof girls recognized that age, her soand she her was husband, much to overrun Mengistu Haile-Mariam’s mater, Albright College, that would children Luca age 4, school in the Philadelphia suburbs. Har orboth that their she childreninspired theattend. And Tracy is Ed’smore verbalcommunity and interested service in andthe social the Commmunist government. establish the Holocaust Library and and Samantha, 3. Zion is one of the premier Conservative extraordinarya member of inthe others. Federation Board, and establishmentinteraction that of was the going Holocaust on. Library What followed was one of the most Resource Center on the campus. And, yes, Hudson, a Boston terrier, congregations on the Main Line. Petite,a very bigactive hearted one atand that. andBoth Resource gave Center brief at Albrightbut powerful College, dramatic rescue operations in Israel’s Being Alma meant tireless service was also part of the process. The importance of this piece is of deliberate,Nick, a time cardiologist spent with Berks sheperformances did not talk of about Jewish her songs efforts they to raise had history. Over 34 hours and four minutes, and no fanfare — certainly no pictures Nick is not Jewish. He grew up in a history. It represents the fairly typical withCardiology, Alma was and neverTracy, a pharmacist at moneylearned and at Lakin. resettle Both Soviet were Jews happy in andour 34 Israeli cargo and passenger planes if she was expected to be in them. Roman Catholic family of Italian origin. demographic of the Jewish community, aboutEphrata her. Community Hospital, take turns community.well-adjusted Instead, children. she spoke of how worked around the clock, airlifting 14,310 Accolades were not her style; but she But when he told his parents that he and what this community will look like in drivingShe caredthe kids about and picking others them — strangers, up at thrilledThis she remarkable was to meet with family, Natan and Ethiopian Jews to Israel from Addis was not without opinion — thoughtful was in love with Tracy and was going to the future. familyLakin. andAnd friends.they take And full she advantage worked toof Avitalits embrace Sharanksy of and — by refuseniks the Jewish who at Ababa. Alma would have beamed having and at times, determined. But, no matter marry her, they had “discussions,” but And it needs to be viewed as a improvethe extended the services world that — here this preschool at home, in extraordinaryCommunity, continues personal to risk give and us much sacri܁ce heard MK Sholomo Molla’s incredible life what she put her efforts behind, you could in the end, accepted her and loved her. positive and as adding strength and Israelprogram and offers, around both the toworld. children When and you to helpedoptimism to sparkfor the and future. later ignite a global story that he credits to the work of the be sure that she was right by your side, were with Alma, it was all about you, it movement to free Soviet Jewry. Between Federation system that saved his life. working hand in hand with you and others was you who were front and center and 1990 and 1997, Federation’s Operation (see page 5) to do great things. Challah baking at Chabad a warmmade to feel special. family eventExodus campaign nationally raised $1 Alma shared her excitement and pride Alma considered herself privileged Alma believed that we are responsible billion to rapidly rescue and resettle more that helped to raise nearly $1 million to have enjoyed so much of life. One of By Amanda J. Hornberger saved by Rabbi Lipsker, who brought the for each other according to the principles than one million Soviet Jews in Israel and locally toward the capital campaign that her favorite memories was crossing over In late February a community of group more flour. In the end the challah of chesed (caring and compassion), North America. PS – Alma marched with would build the U.S. Holocaust Memorial into Jordan when the borders with Israel women gathered at Chabad to learn was delicious, even if our braids did not Torah (Jewish learning), tikkun olam others in our community on the National Museum in Washington, America’s were reopened. “To think, she would how to make challah and to share loaves look like Chana’s. What Chana made look (repairing the word) and tzedakah (social Mall in Washington during one of the national institution for the documentation, reminisce; “that we along with other with others in need. Geared as an event simple, the braiding of the challah, was justice). And her life was an embodiment largest marches in American history. That study and interpretation of Holocaust Federation mission-goers, met with King for mothers and daughters, I gathered in fact, not quite as easy as it looked. No 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.” my mother-in-law, stepmother, sister matter, my family and I laughed as we tried She believed in the bold collective movement. raindrops and tears that fell the night of Her family was her heart. She and sister-in-law for a fun afternoon to make challah rings and the three- and of Federation and knew that together She spoke about the unity of the its dedication as she, Ed and others from considered a better world, her of laughter, baking and learning. I’m four-braid challah variations. We happily we could mobilize ܁nancial and social Jewish world that resulted in the our community donned their construction responsibility and life — a special reward. pleased to say that my family and I got donated quite a few challahs to the Greater resources that could rescue Jews, Operation Solomon rescue mission that hats and toured the vast and important I think those of us who knew Alma were so much more out of this event than just Reading Food Bank and took the rest strengthen the Jewish people and took place in May 1991. The state of structure. the truly the fortunate ones. delicious bread! home to share with our families, all of whom literally, change the world. Israel, together with Jewish Federation At home in Berks County, the JCC’s Alma Lakin passed away Aug. 27 at Chana Lipsker was a great hostess enjoyed the challah immensely. The ongoing turbulence in the Middle of North America’s major partners on the Lakin Early Education Center preschool the age of 82. and teacher, thoroughly explaining each Extremely dear to me was Chana’s step in the baking process and checking explanation of the significance of the in on us as we went. The room was set challah and how it connects to her role up with all the supplies needed and as a wife and mother. She explained Federation mission to Israel begins Oct. 21 the bright pink table cloths and aprons that the little bit of salt as well as the afternoon that we spent together away I want to thank Chana for making A joint mission composed of chaired by Michael and Susan Fromm and Berks County will be joining the group purpose and heightened appreciation added to the fun atmosphere in the room. sugar, represented the many variations from our husbands, kids and other me and my family, as well as the other community members from the Reading Victor and Dena Hammel. In addition to on the mission. and connection to Jewish identity. Admittedly it was fun to be at an event of life experiences. The idea of praying obligations. It was a great chance for us women at the class, feel so welcome area and the Lehigh Valley will leave for Mitgang, Jayne Kleinman, Cultural Center The Reading Jewish community has Mission participants will visit Reading’s that I did not have to set up or tear down, for her family as she makes the challah to unwind and spend some quality women and for sharing your baking talents with Israel Oct. 21. program director and Mark Goldstein, bene܁ted from teaming with the seasoned Israel Now projects — two important but could simply enjoy. Plus it was a seemed so important to me. As a new time together. We’re all discussing how us. I also want to say thank you to all the For the Reading community, it is the Executive Director of Jewish Federation of mission-goers from the Allentown area humanitarian efforts that both save special treat for me to introduce my family mom myself, I could relate to what Chana we want to make challah together again, community members and programming ܁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 to so many community members who was saying in a way I would not have especially since Chana’s recipe makes committee members who encouraged more than 15 years. A goal of Federation Rabbi Brian Michelson from oiled” mission process. Village in the Carmel Mountains and Meir have welcomed me over the past year. been able to this time last year, and that so much that we can all share in the fun me to make the time to attend this event. President Tammy Mitgang and Federation Congregation Oheb Sholom and Rabbi “Mark Goldstein and his staff have Panim’s new nutrition center in Kiryat Despite some initial ingredient made the afternoon even sweeter for me. of making it together and then enjoy it in I’m so very glad I did and I look forward leadership, the Reading mission is co- Yosef Lipsker, Chabad-Lubavitch of created over the years a network of Gat, where the community will dedicate miscalculations, the day and challah was My family is still discussing that our own homes. to attending more! 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. It’s Simcha Supplement time 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. and published monthly, September through June, under the Jewish If you had or are having a bar/bat mitzvah or graduation and published monthly, September through June, under the Jewish 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, (high school or higher) in your family this Jewish year, to be addressed when moving a group Meir Panim’s network of soup kitchens, share the good news with the community. Please GeneralGeneral Offices:Offices: 11001100 BerkshireBerkshire Blvd.,Blvd., SuiteSuite 125125 of more than 50 people across Israel. restaurants and feeding centers, ensure Wyomissing, PA 19610 submit a few sentences about the person and their Wyomissing, PA 19610 Jewish Federation of North America’s warm, nutritious meals for thousands of Phone:Phone: 610-921-0624610-921-0624 FAX:FAX: 610-929-0886610-929-0886 Missions Department and its staff in children and families every day. accomplishment, along with a photo. WebWeb site:site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgwww.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Israel along with Kenes Tours will further At Yemin Orde, the group is anxious to ensure that each and every day of the see ܁rsthand the progress that has been Jewish Federation of Reading Jewish Federation of Reading mission is maximized. made at the village since the wild܁res Text and photos can be sent to [email protected] or to Chairman: Alvin Katz Chairman: Larry Rotenberg Federation missions are travel devastated it in 2010. President: Tammy K. Mitgang the Federation office. President: William D. Franklin experiences unlike any other. Along The group is honored that Chaim Peri, Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor with visits to historic and sacred sites, beloved educator and director of Yemin Proofreaders: Esther Strauss & Federation staff DEADLINE IS APRIL 30. Proofreaders: Federation staff museums and popular tourist destinations, Orde for 30 years, will personally be hosting Member: American Jewish Press Association 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 WE CANNOT GUARANTEE PUBLICATION OF The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading insider access to residents, community Young people from the village will join Deadline for the November issue is Oct. 5 leaders, area experts, and political the group for the tour and share their ITEMS SUBMITTED AFTER DEADLINE Next deadline, April 5 personalities and provide a sense of experiences. Page 4 SHALOM April 2016 Story of survival concludes Jewish Film Series

By Amanda J. Hornberger struggle to outlast the Nazi occupation journey culminates in a powerhouse Tickets are $5 and can be purchased An inspiring true tale of survival and keep alive his Jewish faith. Srulik, conclusion and postscript. at the theater beginning at 6:30 p.m. the during World War II, “Run Boy Run” 9, escaped the Warsaw ghetto and The Reading Jewish Film Series 2016 day of the screening. Cash and checks concludes the 2016 Reading Jewish passes himself off as Jurek, a Christian is sponsored by the Rubin Educational are accepted. Following the film will be a Film Series on April 20. This French war orphan, to survive the war in the Fund and Fox Theatres. “Run Boy Run” dessert reception compliments of Sweet and German dramatic narrative tells Polish countryside. Just when it seems will be shown on Wednesday, April 20, at Street Desserts. the story of a Polish boy who seeks his childhood memories and identity 7 p.m. at Fox Berkshire, 800 Berkshire Thank you to everyone who supported the kindness of others in his solitary could be lost forever, Jurek’s harrowing Boulevard in Wyomissing. the 2016 Reading Jewish Film Series! Join us at Chatty Monks for a post-Passover beer tasting By Amanda J. Hornberger May 1, from 4 to 8 pm for a night out at Monks! RSVPs are requested by April 28 to Itching to get out and enjoy yourself this local brewery. Sample beers from The cost is $10 for JCC members Brenda at [email protected] or after Passover this year? The Chevra Chatty Monks and meet the brewer! and $15 for non-members. Pricing 610-921-0624. Babysitting with pizza Committee of the JCC invites you to We’ll learn about the brewing includes a dinner buffet, one beer dinner will be available with additional a post-Passover private beer tasting process, how Chatty Monks was sample and one pint of beer. You details including cost and location to event at Chatty Monks Brewing Co. in started and its plans for expansion. are also welcome to purchase any follow. West Reading! Open to all community Attendees will also be entered into a additional beers. Seating is limited Come out and join us for what is members 21 or older, join us on Sunday, raffle for a FREE growler from Chatty to 40 people so please sign up early! sure to be a fun evening! Large crowd celebrates Community Shabbat

By Amanda J. Hornberger as she led us in singing. Rabbi Lipsker shared the evening together. After so many people attend and enjoy Two hundred people gathered on offered the blessings prior to dinner, the meal was finished people themselves. March 4 to celebrate Shabbat together and then the community enjoyed a lingered talking to friends, enjoying Our community will have another at RCOS for our annual Community meal together. coffee and desserts and watching opportunity to gather together at Shabbat. Rabbi Michelson and Rabbi Due to the large crowd there the children run around the room our annual meeting and picnic on Abelson worked together on the were no assigned seats. But it and play together. Sunday, May 22 at Wyomissing service, and we were treated to the was just as well as new friends It really was a community gathering Hills Playground. Hope to see you beautiful voice of Gabriella Michelson were introduced as the community for all ages, and we enjoyed seeing there!

‘Three Queens and a Joker’ WE WALK WHILE YOU WORK!  Vacation coverage art exhibit to open in April  Pet feeding By Amanda J. Hornberger Audrey Bordonaro is a former art  The JCC is pleased to host four artists teacher and guidance counselor who Houseplant care from Schuylkill County in a new art exhibit resumed her love of creating art after  Free consultation titled “Three Queens and a Joker.” This her retirement. The creation of her art exhibit runs April 11 through June 10 is influenced by her life experiences with an opening reception on April 14 through nature, music, words/poetry, [email protected] from 5-7 p.m. feelings and emotions. The mediums she Below is information on each of the presently uses are oil paint, acrylic paint,

Insured & bonded pet care in the comfort & safety of your artists: mixed media, or cold wax and oil paint. own home Kris Miller-Siple is a former art teacher Her work consists of representational and will feature oil paintings in the show. art as well as abstract work. However, Common and whimsical objects from she feels most creative when producing sentimental experiences are her primary abstractly. focus. Playing with light, color and The joker of the group, Mike There’s No Telling How Far Our shadow as a metaphor for looking back McCord has spent his career working in Wellness-Focused Lifestyle Will Take You... in time, Kris’ shadow play paintings are advertising, computer graphics, graphic meant to inspire and reawaken pleasant design and printing. While some people memories for the viewer. keep a journal, Mike keeps a sketch book A former banker, Molly Kantner and has recently begun showing his work Reed began painting again only four in public. years ago. Her paintings’ subject matter For Mike, the transition from the reflects imagery very personal to her, commercial realm to a much more including geometrically precise Sudoku- personal and purely creative world of fine inspired paintings and loosely painted art is a major step outside his comfort expressionist landscapes. Molly loves to zone to a place where an artist should see a painting with thick use of paint and live. To him the materials are secondary, much texture, derived by stroke of either art is a way of life, and the work is simply brush or palette knife to create a sense a by-product of the struggle to come to of energy in her work. terms with that persistent urge.

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Glaucoma · Macular Degeneration · Diabetic Retinopathy · Allergy Schedule a personal visit Cataracts · Inflammation · Infection · Dry Eye · Eyelid Disease today to see how Refractive Surgery Co-management · Orthokeratology · Contact Lenses Highlands’ residents live Optical Services · Vision Therapy/Orthoptics · Low Vision Rehabilitation · Routine Eye Care well … and stay well. Wyomissing Douglassville Myerstown 610-775-2300 • www.thehighlands.org 610.374.3134 610.385.4333 717.866.1400 2000 Cambridge Ave • Wyomissing, PA 19610 24/7 Medical Eye Emergencies Wyomissing - 610.374.3134 www.Wyo-Opto.com A member of Reading Health System Douglassville - 610.385.4333 April 2016 SHALOM Page 5 ‘Fiddler on the Roof’: JCC trip to New York City

By Amanda J. Hornberger timeless traditions that define faith and trip will include three hours of free time members. Community members are invited to family. The new production stars Tony to explore the city and grab lunch, as We hope you can join us for this fun join us for a JCC bus trip to New York City nominees Danny Burstein and Jessica well as a boxed deli dinner for the ride day in New York and the opportunity to on Wednesday, June 29, to see the new Hecht with stunning choreography from home. see this beloved theatrical masterpiece. Broadway revival of “Fiddler on the Roof”! acclaimed Israeli choreographer Hofesh Pricing includes round-trip Bieber Bus Please RSVP today to Brenda Seidel A wonderful cast and lavish orchestra tell Shecter, based on the original staging by transporation, bus driver gratuity and at 610-921-0624 or brendas@jfreading. this heartwarming story of fathers and Jerome Robbins. your ticket to “Fiddler.” The price is $110 org by April 27. Seating is limited to the daughters, husbands and wives, and the In addition to seeing “Fiddler”, our for JCC members and $140 for non-JCC first 50 people. PJ Our Way coming to Reading By Amanda J. Hornberger books on the website pjourway.org. welcome them and will get their first selected family engagement program designed Tween readers in our area are invited PJ Our Way was introduced in 10 book about four to six weeks after that. to strengthen the identities of Jewish to join PJ Our Way as this new program communities nationwide in 2014 and Each month following that, the families and their relationship to their kicks off this spring! An expansion of PJ will launch in 24 new cities this year, subscribers have until the 10th of each local Jewish community. Created by the Library, this Jewish literacy program is including Reading. We were selected as month to select one of four books for Harold Grinspoon Foundation, PJ Library available to children ages 9-11. PJ Library a pilot community last fall after submitting the upcoming month. Additionally, PJ started in 2005 by providing free, high- currently sends free Jewish books or CDs a successful grant application to The Our Way subscribers across the country quality Jewish books and music each each month to children ages 6 months to Harold Grinspoon Foundation, which can apply in October each year to be month to 200 families. 8 years old. Once a child ages out of the administers PJ Our Way nationally. part of a national design team that has Now more than 140,000 children PJ Library program when they turn 9, they Children in the Greater Reading area early access to the books to create between the ages of 6 months and register separately for PJ Our Way. ages 9-11 can open an account at pjourway. videos and reviews, interview authors 8 years receive the books in 200 In the PJ Our Way program, children org with the help of their parents. After filling and participate in workshops to lead communities in the United States and ages 9-11 get to select one of four books out an online enrollment form, parents must conversations among their peers. There Canada. In addition, more than 220,000 every month. Additionally, participants confirm their account in a verification email is also a parents’ blog on the site, which schoolchildren in Israel receive Hebrew can create book trailers, videos, quizzes, that will be sent to them. In addition to their includes summaries, discussion points language, Jewish values-based books author interviews and use other media to first book selection, children will receive the and content warnings for the books. through PJ Library’s sister program, communicate with their peers about the book “Jordan and the Dreadful Golem” to PJ Library is an award-winning Jewish Sifriyat Pijama. Local Holocaust survivors speak to students By Amanda J. Hornberger extra special as the technology teacher This spring the Lakin Holocaust from ELCO was able to record Mariette Resource Center at Albright College has speaking and create a DVD copy for the been proud to help coordinate Holocaust Lakin HRC. Now Mariette’s testimony will survivor and second generation survivor be added to the permanent collection of family member visits to local high schools more than two dozen other Holocaust throughout our area. survivors’ testimony currently housed at the In March more than 250 students were Lakin HRC, a joint effort of Albright College fortunate enough to hear firsthand stories and the Jewish Federation of Reading. More than 120 ELCO students listen attentively to Mariette Jacobson speak on March 15. of survival during the Holocaust. On March 29 and 30 Kim Yashek than 130 students. As firsthand accounts visit to the Lakin HRC. I’m extremely Over 120 Eastern Lebanon County Lockhart, the daughter of the late Holocaust of the Holocaust become more difficult to grateful to all our local survivors and High School (ELCO) students were able survivor Richard Yashek, spoke at hear due to the age of the survivors, we survivor family members who continue to meet Mariette Jacobson on March 15 Schuylkill Valley High School and Conrad are grateful to rely on the capable second to ensure that local students are able to and learn about her family’s experiences Weiser High School respectively. Using generation survivors who ensure that their hear real stories of survival during the in France during World War II. The ELCO a presentation enhanced by her father’s parents’ stories are told. Holocaust. If you are interested in having students were extremely attentive and own words as written in his memoirs as This April students from Fleetwood a Holocaust survivor speak at your child’s asked some great questions during the well as with family pictures, Kim was able Area Middle School will also hear school, please contact the Lakin HRC at Q&A following Mariette’s talk. This visit was to tell her father’s story of survival to more Holocaust survivors speak during their [email protected]. Students benefit from Federation grant programs Several local students are recipients social justice of Student Camp and Education Awards, seminars. a Federation program that provides The following will monetary awards to support their attend Camp Harlam participation in programs that nurture in Kunkletown, Pa. Jewish identity: Ari and Talia JoJo Ure, daughter of Janine Spillerman, children and Bruce Ure; and Alexa of David and Ruth JoJo Ure Alexa Chronister Talia Spillerman Ari Spillerman Molly Nemirow Chronister, daughter of Cindy and Spillerman For more information on Student leadership program. Brett Chronister, received funding Ari Spillerman also received a grant Camp and Education Awards, visit Molly Nemirow, a daughter of Mark toward her participation in the toward his participation in the National www.ReadingJewish Community.org or and Geri Nemirow. Religous Action Center L’Taken Federation of Temple Youth Veida contact Bill Franklin at 610-921-0624. Meir Panim brings Purim joy to underpriviliged in Israel Purim is observed by delivering food packages relationship.” (mishloach manot) to friends and family. It is also a About 3,000 baskets were distributed. Prior to commandment to donate money to the needy and Purim, students from 20 schools across Israel went partake in a festive holiday meal. door to door to collect nonperishable food for the The Purim story describes the withdrawal of a tragic packages. About 6,000 students participated. decree made by Haman, an evil leader in ancient The six Meir Panim branch managers created Persia. He ordered the first “Final Solution” to destroy a Purim atmosphere in their restaurant-style soup the Jewish people. Following his failed mission, Purim kitchens. The restaurants were decorated, staff wore became a time of salvation and joy. But for the 1.7 costumes, music was played, and special food was million Israeli citizens who live in poverty, there is little served. “We are hopeful that patrons walk away with festivity. Meir Panim has plans to bring Purim cheer to big smiles on their faces and an extra warm and happy those who need it most. feeling in their hearts,” Sternbuch said. “Every year, Meir Panim distributes special food In Meir Panim’s Dimona branch, a unique Purim carnival packages to our patrons and those who receive help was planned. The entire development town waa invited to through our Meals-on-Wheels program,” said Goldie join in the festivities. Several hundred people were expected Sternbuch, Director of Overseas Relations for Meir Panim. to attend the event, which included balloons, face painting, Meir Panim expanded the program by distributing animal rides, music, clowns and treats. Dimona policemen two mishloach manot baskets to every one of their volunteered their time to man the booths. patrons. One is for the patron to keep and the other is “Because of the many challenges impoverished for the patron to give to a needy person of his choosing. people face in their lives, many poor families have “Meir Panim strives to normalize the lives of the negative views of policemen,” Sternbuch explained, impoverished,” Sternbuch said. “In order to do that, noting that having police in uniformin the booths is a downtrodden and developing social responsibility is people need to not only receive but also to give. great way to build positive relationships. what Meir Panim is all about,” noted Sternbuch. “And, Therefore, patrons can indulge their grandchildren or Through these Purim activities, the organization let’s face it. The surprising sight of a policeman behind a neighbor. Others are alone and lonely – they can aimed to bring joy to as many people as possible. a cotton candy machine is enough to brighten the faces give their mishloach manot to a neighbor and build a “Providing a positive and uplifting atmosphere for the of everyone with the joy of the Purim holiday.” Page 6 SHALOM April 2016

Page 4 SHALOM December 2014 ®

Wherever you find joy and caring and Jewish values, that’s where you’ll find the Jewish Federation. the jewish federation helps countless SERVE WARMpeople MEALS. overcome poverty, hunger and DELIVERdespair, MEDICINES. and helps support programs GIVEFEED THE thatHUGS HUNGRY. sustain jewishTO SENIORSidentity and enrich GIVE HOPEour community. TO THOUSANDS. together, we can make A WORLDa world of AWAY difference. this passover and SECUREthroughout theTHE year. FUTURE. BEFOREJewishFederations.org jfederations @jfederations YOURBEFORE ALARM YOU GOESFINISH OFF.

It only takes a few minutes to help seniors stay connected to community and continue living in their own homes, Meanwhile,BREAKFAST.It only takes you’ll a few nurture minutes Jewish to change learning, lives in fund our communityfood banks, and offer around job thetraining world. Food— just banksa few forof the needy,solutions care Fed- erationfor seniors, supports Israel with experiences heart, innovation for the young and — decades these are of just knowing some of what the solutions works. It’sFederation time: Donate. supports Volunteer. with heart, Get involved.innovationYour and link decades to getting of knowing started: what JewishFederations.org works. Seize the moment: Donate. Volunteer. Get involved. Your link to getting started: JewishFederations.org

www.readingjewishcommunity.org THETHE STRENGTH STRENGTH OFOF A APEOPLE. PEOPLE . JeJewishwishFederations.org Federation of Reading THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. PO jfederations Box 14925, @jf ederationsReading PA 19612 610-921-0624

Please detach and return with payment to Jewish Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading PA 19612

I want to help Federation make wishes come true this year. Here’s my tax-deductible gift to support Jewish Federation of Reading’s 2014 Annual Campaign and make a world of difference both near my own home and beyond:

Name______Address______$______amount enclosed Checks payable to Jewish Federation of Reading Credit Card: ___Discover ___Mastercard ___Visa Card #______Exp. date______Security Code_____ Name on Card:______Signature______April 2016 SHALOM Page 7

Yemeni Jews brought to Israel in secret mission Some of the last remaining Jews in brought to Israel as part of Operation four other relatives were on board the 40 in Sanaa, where they live in a closed war-torn Yemen have been brought to Magic Carpet in 1949 and 1950. recent flight to Israel — was murdered in compound and enjoy the protection of Israel in a secret mission. According to In recent years, some 200 Jews Sanaa and a young Jewish woman was Yemeni authorities. BBC reports, the Jewish Agency, which have left as attacks against the Jewish abducted, forced to convert to Islam, and The Chairman of the Executive of is responsible for Jewish immigration community have increased and the forcibly wed to a Muslim man, it added. the Jewish Agency, Natan Sharansky, to Israel, said 19 people had arrived in country has descended into war. After the conflict between the said the arrival of the final group of mid-March, among them a rabbi carrying The BBC reported that the group Yemeni government and the rebel Jewish immigrants from Yemen was “a a 500-year-old Torah scroll. landed in Israel March 20 following a Houthi movement escalated a year highly significant moment in the history The nonprofit organization said some complex covert operation. ago, the Jewish community found itself of Israel”. 50 Jews had chosen to stay in Yemen. The Jewish Agency said attacks increasingly imperilled, and covert “From Operation Magic Carpet in Since 1948, 51,000 Jews have against Jews in Yemen had risen sharply operations to spirit Jews out of Yemen 1949 until the present day, the Jewish emigrated to Israel from Yemen, which since 2008, when Jewish teacher Moshe were stepped up, according to the BBC. Agency has helped bring Yemenite Jewry has one of the world’s oldest Jewish Yaish Nahari was murdered in Raydah. In The Jewish Agency said some 50 home to Israel. Today we bring that communities. Almost all of them were 2012, Aharon Zindani — whose son and Jews remain in Yemen, including about historic mission to a close.” Israeli breakthrough could aid Alzheimer’s patients Israel21c.com NeuroQuest is working with the University a study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s findings forward into clinical trials — to The progressive dementia of of California-San Diego on clinical Disease that proposes testing ADNP, a create a pre-Alzheimer’s test that will Alzheimer’s disease affects some 35 validation trials of its blood test for very novel biomarker in the blood for cognitive help to tailor potential preventative million people worldwide and is expected early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, based on aging and Alzheimer’s disease. treatments.” to affect 115 million by 2050, yet it is not award-winning research led by Professor “This study has provided the basis ADNP was discovered in Gozes’ lab possible to detect the disease before it Michal Schwartz of the Weizmann to detect this biomarker in routine, non- 15 years ago. “Our study is the first to has caused loss of memory and function. Institute of Science in Rehovot. invasive blood tests, and it is known assess ADNP in elderly individuals at risk The quest to develop a simple Now, researchers from three Israeli that early intervention is invaluable to for Alzheimer’s disease, and its results blood test for Alzheimer’s is therefore institutions – Tel Aviv University, Technion Alzheimer’s patients,” said Professor open the door for further validation in top priority. As ISRAEL21c reported and Rambam Medical Center in Haifa — Illana Gozes, lead researcher. “We are larger, more informative studies,” she in December, the Israeli company and from Harvard University have published now planning to take these preliminary says. How do you say Startup Nation in Arabic? Israel21c.com promoting the growth and success of through the school and accelerator,” entrepreneurs, bring businesses and A new Arab-Israeli innovation hub high-tech entrepreneurial ventures. Hans Shakur, consultant for Tsofen and create badly needed jobs for the area and has joined the local high-tech landscape, The initiative — expected to cost $23 project manager, tells ISRAEL21c. create an entrepreneurial ecosystem for and leading experts in the field have high million over three years — is primarily New accelerators, incubators, high- the Triangle,” Ambassador of the United hopes for the project’s success. supported by the US-Middle East tech hubs and shared working spaces States Dan Shapiro said at the opening The TRI/O Tech advanced high- Partnership Initiative (MEPI) of the US are popping up all the time. However, ceremony on February 10, 2016. tech entrepreneurial hub in the hilltop State Department. TRI/O Tech stands out because of its “Once we have successful models of Israeli Arab city of Kafr Kassem, near “The whole operation in this hub niche in the Arab-Israeli sector. Nazareth and Kafr Kassem, within a few Tel Aviv, includes the first Arab-Israeli is focused on integrating Israeli Arabs Taking a cue from Nazareth’s months we’ll see other cities or towns school of entrepreneurship and a startup into Israeli high-tech, making the flourishing high-tech center, Kafr wanting to duplicate this experience of accelerator. entrepreneurial world more accessible Kassem hopes to lure more high-tech building high-tech in their towns. And TRI/O Tech is a joint venture of to the Arab community, creating jobs companies to its Lev Haaretz Industrial this will accelerate by itself. The Arab Tsofen, an Arab-Israeli integration for Arabs in their towns so they do not Zone that would then employ more local mayors know of the economic miracle nonprofit, and MIT Enterprise Forum of need to travel to Tel Aviv or Haifa for talent from the Triangle area of Israeli of the startup and high-tech nation and Israel, the Israeli chapter of the global work, and at the same time fostering Arab towns in the eastern Sharon plain. all of them want to be part of it,” Shakur nonprofit organization dedicated to and encouraging entrepreneurship “TRI/O Tech will encourage young tells ISRAEL21c. IsraAID helps ‘forgotten refugees in northern France Israeli humanitarian aid volunteers workers are warning of a sanitation crisis. the camps in Calais and Dunkirk, located past three years. have arrived in the “forgotten refugee “Here in Northern France after failing near the Channel Tunnel, in an attempt “In 2016, IsraAID remains camps” of Calais and Dunkirk, in northern to reach England, the refugees, 80 to cross into the UK. committed to this humanitarian crisis, France, in response to international calls percent of whom are Kurdish Iraqis, The UN High Commissioner for and the efforts in Northern France to help thousands of migrants living in 20% Syrian, Iranian and Afghans, are Refugees’ representative in France, are part of a larger response plan squalid conditions. stranded in a series of improvised Philippe Leclerc, has said in the past that includes operations in Jordan, IsraAID sent a professional team muddy camps, with dwindling resources that most of the migrants in Calais were Northern Iraq, the shores of Lesvos that includes psychosocial and and increasingly desperate conditions,” fleeing violence in Syria, Eritrea, Somalia and camps in the north of Greece trauma specialists to meet with local says IsraAID Director Shachar Zahavi. and Afghanistan. and Serbia-Croatia,” says Zahavi. and international organizations and “Thousands of families here struggle to IsraAID’s director says volunteers “IsraAID is also supporting the efforts community leaders to support the needs satisfy even their most basic needs, and from his organization — a nonprofit, non- of the government and civil society of both the refugees and the long-term uncertainty and ambiguity of their current governmental organization founded in with the crucial task of trying to staff at the hard hit camps. situation only adds to the mental anguish Israel in 2001 to bring lifesaving disaster absorb and integrate the refugees in Winter weather and torrential rain of the horrors they escaped back home.” relief and long-term support wherever Germany, and the physical and mental has turned Calais and Dunkirk into Despite their notorious conditions, needed — have been answering the call scars that comes with them from civil muddy settlements, and international aid migrants continue to make their way to for aid in Europe’s migration crisis for the conflict and their arduous journey.” Syrian refugee creates website to thank Israelis Israel21c.com end. On that day, it is imperative that Syrians people are your enemies. The Jews are give back to Jews what they give to us, we Aboud Dandachi, a Sunni Muslim from reciprocate the enormous goodwill shown evil.’ And then I saw that the Jews are the should at least thank them,” Dandachi told the city of Homs now living in Istanbul, has towards us by Israelis and the Jewish most humane and generous people of Ynet news. created a website dedicated to the Israeli people. Whatever supposed reasons we this era.” He says this “one-man operation” is a and Jewish organizations and people may have had to be adversaries is dwarfed In December 2015, he created a blog, personal mission and that he had no idea helping Syrian refugees. by the compassion shown to us during Twitter account and Facebook page in what feedback he’d get, if any. The website, Thank You Am Israel, our darkest days, a time when we have appreciation of the assistance given to “I’ve been getting tremendous feedback highlights the humanitarian aid being given nothing to give back except our gratitude,” Syrian refugees by Israeli and Jewish and messages of support,” Dandachi tells to displaced Syrians and also refutes any Dandachi wrote in an opinion article on organizations and individuals. ISRAEL21c. reasons why Israelis and Syrians should his site. The site includes news stories and “What surprised me is the feedback be enemies. Dandachi, a 39-year-old high-tech opinion pieces on the global humanitarian from Arabs. I was expecting hostility from “As a Syrian, I am morally obligated to project manager, says he never imagined aid being offered by Israeli and Jewish Arabs and instead a surprising number ensure that the goodwill that Israelis and the civil war in Syria would last five years. people to the Syrian people. (Am Yisrael have told me that I’m saying what they Jews have displayed towards my people Dandachi left his hometown of Homs in is Hebrew for “Nation of Israel.”) can’t say and that I should keep saying will not be overlooked nor forgotten. The September 2013 for Lebanon and then “There are new stories of Israelis what I’m saying. It surprised me the day will come when the conflict in Syria will made his way to Turkey. helping Syrians every day. As far as I’m number of Arabs and refugees like me come to an end, as all things come to an “I grew up with statements like ‘These concerned, because we as Syrians cannot who say that.” Page 8 SHALOM April 2016 Congregational News Counting the Omer

By Rabbi Brian Michelson shall count off seven weeks. They must count from the day we were freed to the In Psalm 90 it says, “Teach us to Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom be complete.” (Lev. 23:15) day we fully entered into the covenant number our days; that we may obtain Starting on the The wave offering was the first sheaf with God. As some rabbinic authorities a wise heart.” (Ps. 90:12) Words for second night of of barley, the first of the winter grains to portray it; these are the days of our time figure prominently in this Psalm. A Passover, we as ripen, was cut in the field and brought to “engagement” to God and for preparing contrast is drawn between God’s eternity Jews enter a period the ancient Temple in thanksgiving. From for our “wedding” as represented by the and human mortality and fragility. The of counting known as that day, a measure — an Omer — of giving of the Ten Commandments. Psalmist hopes that, with God’s help, Sefirat HaOmer, the barley was brought to count the 49 days Lately, however, I have been thinking life will be satisfying and joyful. It is a counting of the Omer. between the second night of Passover and more about the idea of not only counting notion that is worthy of our attention and This practice is based the festival of Shavuot. Shavuot, the wheat the days, but making the days count. All thought. on the verse in the harvest and the time of the giving of the too often, we spend our time just trying to This year, as we celebrate Passover Torah “And from the Torah, falls on day 50, having completed get through the days as we work towards and begin to count the days of the Omer, day on which you bring the sheaf of the counting of the seven weeks. the end of a project or a goal. How often may we, also, remember to make each wave offering — the day after the The period of the Omen links the do we let time slip away without stopping and every one of those days count. If we Sabbath (in this context the Sabbath Exodus of the people from Egyptian to think about it or enjoy the moments we can, we will as the Psalm says. “gain a refers to the first day of Passover), you slavery with the giving of the Torah. We are experiencing. wise heart.” Keeping up with the details pays spiritual dividends

By Rabbi Yosef Lipsker But the life of a computer is short, and suddenly takes on a new identity, that not be the same without total application. Chabad Center of Berks County it can expire suddenly without warning. of a code. If one can place those letters Any diversion moves the “letter” out of In today’s modern Because of this, all information is also back in their correct context the message place, in the process creating confusion world, the computer stored elsewhere. Today there are ways will become clear. and error. Does it matter? As long as the plays an integral part. of filing huge quantities of information. The dividing line between clarity basics are followed, surely that is the Everything is run by But this information can be lost or even and confusion is wafer thin. The margin aim and ideal? Why should a few ‘minor’ these little machines, stolen. In the hands of others, information between inspiration and bewilderment details derail the whole project? even if you do not can be mishandled and abused. is tiny. The answer is in the code. Most actually own one. The The solution to this is to encrypt The day before Passover, leavened people have no idea how a computer computer is like the the information, which is very simple. products are permitted for consumption. does its work and, frankly, they do not human brain, in that it Throughout history, people have Bread, cakes and cookies can all be need to. As long as it does its job they processes information designed codes as a means of hiding enjoyed. The day after Passover, once are happy and content. But they still and reacts accordingly. It is able to information. These codes are generally again everything is permitted and life respect the fact that a tiny departure from calculate any potential scenario and find coordinated between two parties who goes back to normal. But for the duration normal procedures renders the computer an instant solution. Obviously, because scramble and unscramble the code using of the festival (Friday evening, April inoperable — with catastrophic results. the computer is not human, the solution a prearranged formula. The simplest 22 – Saturday, April 30) Chametz (any The same with transferring data. Without may not always be the desired one! formula is to give each letter a number. leavened product) is contraband of the encrypting the information (a very simple The beauty of the modern computer So the letter A would be 1. Obviously, that worst type. . task) it becomes compromised. is that they are so easy to run (our won’t fool anyone, but it’s an illustration of The reasons for disposing of Chametz It is the same with Judaism. Even children invariably comprehended the how it’s done. In computer terminology, over Pesach are many and valid, but without knowing the exact reasons why, basic operation of one before they had it is accomplished through a series of the seeming extremity of the rules is it is obvious that a tiny departure from reached their second birthday) that digits and letters that make it impossible perplexing. We can appreciate that our tradition, or guidelines, creates chaos one is totally unaware and oblivious to unscramble without the “key,” which is Chametz consumption is forbidden, but and disorder. Following them promotes to its inner mechanism and operation. only known to the owner of the file and why the requirement to get rid of every harmony and focus. Our “computer” In reality, the computer operates by a anyone else he shares it with. tiny crumb from the home? must be maintained and kept in good series of digits and letters which are A typed message, such as what you Judaism is all about detail. Every condition, it is the key to our survival and intricately assembled into complex codes are currently reading, is legible and clear. aspect, every instruction — however success. and patterns. These patterns allow the However, with just a few letters out of insignificant — is deliberately designed I conclude by wishing each and computer (at incredible speeds) to work place, it would become gibberish and to create the setting through which our every one of you a happy and Kosher its way through the maze of information confusing. That is all it takes — a few lives are enriched and enhanced. We Passover, and may it be one of calm, that is stored on it. letters out of place. But this gibberish might be mystified, but the Mitzvah would peace, and joy.

April ✡ Adar II-Nisan

Shabbat Candle Lightings Torah Portions

April 1 April 2/Adar II 23 7:11 p.m. Shemini (Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47)

April 8 April 9/Nisan 1 7:18 p.m. Tazria (Leviticus 12:1 – 13:59)

April 15 April 16/Nisan 8 7:25 p.m. Metzora (Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33)

April 22 April 23/Nisan 15 7:32 p.m. Passover

April 29 April 30/Nisan 22 7:40LOCAL p.m. CONGREGATIONS ANDPassover SERVICE TIMES REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 First Seder Night: Friday, April 1: 6 p.m. Grades 2/3 Shabbat followed by dinner Friday, April 8: Sisterhood Shabbat, 7:45 p.m. Friday, April 22, Saturday, April 9: Tot Shabbat,10 a.m. 7:30 p.m. Fridays, April 15 and 29, 7:45 p.m. Suggested donation: NO FRIDAY NIGHT SERVICE ON APRIL 22 Adult, $36; Child: $18 CHABAD CENTER OF BERKS COUNTY (610) 921-0881 Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. Please RSVP KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE (610) 374-1763 610-334-3218 by April 20 Weekly services Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Friday Evening Service – Please call for service information CONGREGATION SHOMREI HABRITH April 2016 SHALOM Page 9 Freedom By Rabbi Matthew Abelson dayenu are essential elements of a child- In the patriotic anthem “America” dimension of freedom that is as real as any Kesher Zion Synagogue friendly Passover seder. written by Samuel Francis Smith in 1831, other. Choice is the essence of freedom, Depending on who After the kids find the afikomen and we declare “Let freedom ring!” Most of us and choice necessarily means the capacity is at our seder table, head to bed, another type of discussion sing that song for the first time as early as to make mistakes. The novel raises the the conversation will ensues, one that is more aligned with preschool, introducing us to the concept of question, How are mistakes and choice vary. With young adult sensibilities. That discussion revolves freedom at a young age. The rest of our intrinsic to the nature of freedom? Perhaps kids — children or around freedom. Freedom is at once lives, one could suggest, is an exploration choice and its potential consequence, grandchildren — the thoroughly familiar and abstract, unrealized. of freedom. We engage with freedom, mistakes, is the essence of freedom. Haggadah reading If you ask someone to explain what freedom particularly its lack of full realization, but we Berlin’s essay examines freedom in a provides enough is, they will likely stumble or offer platitudes, do not often reflect on the basic question completely different vein. The difference material. Mastering yet that shouldn’t lead us to think that they of what freedom is. The seder is that in genre — essay as opposed to novel the narrative of the do not know what freedom is. As citizens opportunity. We do not explore the nature — reflects a distinct focus. Rather than exodus of the Jewish people from slavery, of the United States of America, we have and parameters of freedom in a strictly a narrative that painfully, and at times explaining why certain items are on the heard of and spoken about freedom since philosophical sense; we explore it against humorously, exposes that being free and seder plate, and singing songs such as the earliest moments of our youth. the background of our ancestors’ liberation being flawed are linked, Berlin interrogates from slavery in Egypt under Pharaoh one of freedom’s essential components — through the leadership of Moses. That liberty — and draws a distinction between narrative contains within it the complexity negative and positive liberty. Negative of the topic of freedom. A host of questions liberty is the releasing of fetters; positive rush to mind when we think critically about liberty is about the exercise of personal the Haggadah. autonomy. To frame these two competing To connect philosophical reflection on concepts in colloquial terms, one can ask, the concept of freedom to the narrative Am I free because no one is telling me of the Jewish people’s liberation from what to do, or is freedom about the ability Egyptian slavery, what may be useful is to to determine one’s destiny? employ writings from general culture. Two In “Two Concepts of Liberty,” Berlin does literary works that I will bring to my seder not cite the haggadah, but the narrative of table are Jonathan Franzen’s 2010 novel the Jewish people’s liberation from slavery “Freedom” and Isaiah Berlin’s 1958 essay is consonant with negative liberty, and their “Two Concepts of Liberty.” These two works journey to the eretz Israel is consonant with bring a distinct flavor to the topic of freedom. positive liberty. One, a novel, follows a Minnesota My hope is to whet your appetite on the family, the Berglunds, and details the rash holiday on which we cannot eat chametz for of mistakes that each of the members in the a fierce and unblinking conversation about family makes — most significantly adultery. the nature of freedom. The title is not ironic, but it does expose a Chag Sameach.

More fun at Tot Shabbat Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom’s Tot Shabbat draws a crowd. Next edition is Saturday, April 9, at 10 a.m. Page 10 SHALOM April 2016 Obituaries Gene is survived by his wife Shirley, his two daughters; Ellen Friedman Gene Friedman, of Reading. Gene of Delaware and Carol Friedman- was a Reading Times staff writer and Cooper of Maryland. There are also twin columnist/Reporter at Large from 1951 grandsons Benjamin and Aaron Cooper. to 1977. He won second place in the --- Keystone Awards for a column. He was Martin Rudolph, 98, Reading. a staff director for Inter-American Affairs Martin worked for Reading Company of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Railroad as a welder/freight car from 1977 to 1981. He remained in repairman for 35 years. He is survived Washington for several years. Gene by his children; Harold Rudolph, Joyce retired in 1992 and returned to Reading DuGuay, Barbara Oxenreider, Carolyn and wrote the antique column “The Faust, and Robert Schoelkopf. Other Collector” for the Reading Eagle from survivors include eleven grandchildren 1992 to 2010. He was a past vice and numerous great-and great-great- president of Temple Oheb Sholom. grandchildren.

introduce your child to the joy of shabbat! Group filled in on Hamantaschen By Betsy Katz types of dough to make the hamantaschen On March 13 Chana Lipsker hosted marble and some used rainbow sprinkles Tot a hamantaschen baking class at the to make confetti cookies. Chabad Center. It was attended by about Chana and Janine Ure demonstrated 50 women who left with an amazing methods of shaping the treats into the assortment of delicious and colorful traditional triangle shape, signifying hamantaschen. Haman’s hat. Chana explained the holiday There were chocolate as well as of Purim and Queen Esther’s role in foiling Shabbatjoin us for tot shabbat, saturday, 4/9/16 at 10:00 am traditional cookies and a myriad of fillings, the plans of Haman to kill all of the Jews. a musical, story-filled saturday, 5/14/16 at 10:00 am including chocolate sauce, cheesecake, This was another in the series of peanut butter fluff, caramel, and fruit jams. wonderful cooking and baking experiences shabbat morning experience Tot Shabbat services are held Some of the women combined the two provided by Chana and her able assistants. geared towards families with Saturday mornings at 10:00 am young children through at Reform Congregation Oheb grade 2. bring your family Sholom, 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing, PA 19610 and friends to celebrate ohebsholom.org with rabbi michelson, and Members & non-members are stay for a pint-size oneg invited! No registration is required. of juice, challah, and child Please call the Temple office friendly treats. 610.375.6034, with any questions.

New Member Shabbat!

Please join RCOS for a Shabbat service to honor new members, including a “Covenant of Welcome” ceremony. Special oneg to follow offering wine and catered hors d’oeuvres.

Friday, May 13, 2016 7:00pm Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing

Members and Non-­‐members are welcome

Page 11 SHALOM April 2016 Seniors project pays big dividends for Jewish Community High School By Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner Class to be held May 8, 22 and June 5. Reading JCHS Director All students (even those not able We have relished a project in which to attend this course) can email Rabbi a cohort of our Jewish Community High Lipsker at [email protected] with School teens have agreed to spend questions you’ve always wanted to ask extra time in their studies with a period about “Why Jews Do What We Do?” once monthly in “hevruta” — learning More on ‘Better 2 Write’ partnership. Teens and senior citizens Here is some more background on the examine and then discuss traditional prizes for the “Better 2 Write” program, Jewish and modern texts, with a focus on part of the “Better Together” program: Jewish values and contemporary events “Better Together” is a national perceived from two rather different program with competition for grants to generational perspectives. subsidize intergenerational education. We also had a spectacular percent of The program created and submitted by our cohort agree to participate in “Better Rabbi Lerner was successful in winning 2 Write / Tov L’chtov,” an essay writing one of those two-year grants. competition in which individuals and our “Better 2 Write” is an opportunity for program become eligible for significant grant participating projects to receive prize awards to be directed toward significant prizes for both the individual Making hamantaschen at Jewish Community High School. subsidizing Jewish camping programs teens and also the project. and/or Israel experiences. Awards will Reading JCHS submitted nine be announced by April 27. essays, which is a spectacular and Purim welcomed amazing percentage of “Better Together” Our students were able to prepare for students. Purim in a very “creative” kitchen in the Essays must reflect student work, JCC — making hamentaschen with help though faculty or parents may assist from a counter-top convection oven and with editing. a very dedicated teacher, Shira Simon. Each organization that satisfies Thanks to the JCC and Federation staff, the requirements for participation we are assembling the tools, utensils in the contest will identify the best and equipment for simple cooking and Writing Submission from among the baking. Using dough from Rollings participants in the Better Together Bakery in Elkins Park and a variety of program from that organization. The fillings — including a very interesting foundation will pay up to 50 percent of “Better Together” is a learning experience for teens and older adults. “halvah” filling — in addition to the more the cost of a satisfactory Jewish summer traditional poppy seed, cherry and prune. camp program, with a maximum award Class with Rabbi Lipsker of $5,000 or satisfactory semester/gap There will not be another Rabbi’s year program in Israel, with a maximum class until after Passover. Rabbi Lipsker award of $8,000. The award will be shares the following course information provided to the organization operating for those who will elect to study with him the program for the benefit of the 5:30-6:15. Please let us know if on that winning author. Donations also will be date you want to begin that trimester made to the scholarship funds of the with him. organizations whose students finished Jewish Course of Why?: Insights in the top three among middle or high into Jewish life in a contemporary world. school student writers. There’s always time for fun at Jewish Community High School. Studying with elders an eye-opening, thrilling experience for teen We will share with the Reading respect they deserved. After that Better dull moment in our monthly sessions. I wear during any Jewish service, I hardly Jewish community in each issue some Together meeting, I never questioned liken the fun and merriment to the fourth have anything to remind me of my Poppy of the essays which were submitted by my place in the program ever again. It stanza from William Blake’s 1789 poem, Backer. Fortunately, through this Better our JCHS teens on our Better Together was this lesson complemented by the “Ecchoing Green”: Together process, I now have Herbie’s program. revelry and bonds made with the seniors, Sitting under the oak, Among the old incredibly sharp mind to reminisce about By Evan Cardinal that made me realize how significant the folk, They laugh at our play, And soon the grandfather I never met. When we met during the Hebrew Better Together program in fact is. they all say. ‘Such, such were the joys. Clearly, I was wrong about the Better month of Shevat, naturally, our Hebrew Upon glancing over the place in the When we all girls & boys, In our youth- Together program. My initial hesitation High School director Rabbi Barry Dov Tu B’Shevat reading, my havruta partner time were seen, On the Ecchoing Green.’ proved to be futile through Anne’s Lerner presented a Tu B’Shevat tale for Anne commented on the fact that the tree At the Ecchoing Green, joy and gaiety wisdom, Alan’s comedy, and Herb’s us to read and discuss with the senior being planted was a carob tree. She told are contagious amongst old and young stories. In retrospect of that incredible community members. Together with me that the carob plant is one of the most alike. This is exactly the case during our first night, I have since connected Rabbi senior citizen Anne Greenstein, we read prevalent plants in Israel and that the Better Together program; the laughter Dov Lerner’s lesson of Honi as an the story as follows: fruit as well as the shade the carob tree and hilarity is a defining facet of the explanation of why I must participate in One day, Honi the Circle Maker was provided were major aspects depicted intergenerational process, regardless Better Together. walking on the road and saw a man in the Bible. of age. It is the guffawing and lively Honi’s story continues as so: The man planting a carob tree. Honi asked the Immediately, my premonition of experience that knits the two varying answered, “Perhaps not. However, when man, “How long will it take for this tree seniors not having keen interest in Bible generations even closer together. I was born into this world, I found many to bear fruit?” The man replied, “Seventy study was debunked. From that moment, Between the riveting discussions carob trees planted by my father and years.”Honi then asked the man, “And do Anne and I continued dissecting the and humorous interjections, genuine grandfather. Just as they planted trees you think you will live another seventy symbolism of the carob tree and the companionships have formed between for me, I am planting trees for my children years and eat the fruit of this tree?” other metaphoric aspects of the passage the adolescents and adults involved with and grandchildren so they will be able to As I read the last line of Honi’s involving Honi and man planting the the Reading Better Together program. eat the fruit of these trees.” question, I zoned out and focused not carob. Engaging and conversing with In my case, it is with a gentleman by the In this tale, we see a man planting a about this random Circle Maker, but rather Anne on this biblical topic made me name of Herb Schneider. tree that will not yield fruit until seventy about the situation I found myself in. I not view our interaction as student-to- When everyone was just making their years down the road. The man’s response wondered why exactly I was participating senior but instead profoundly shifted my way in our local Jewish Federation on to Honi the Circle Maker’s quizzical in this Better Together program and if all mindset as if the intergenerational study that Shevat night, I met eyes with Herb. interrogation of why the man would do we would do with the seniors is discuss session was peer-to-peer. Instantaneously, the 98 years-young something so seemingly pointless, purely the subject material. If all we would be At the adjacent table from Anne man walked over to me and asked how encapsulates the true meaning of the doing is the latter, I seriously would and me, raucous laughter erupted. The my mother and my brother in the service Better Together program. debate about dropping out of Better culprits were a fellow friend of mine, were faring. You see, Herb has known my Just like the man planting carob Together. I am a major proponent of Megan McIntosh, and her hevruta family for years. He and my grandfather to feed his future lineage, the senior studying Bible and discussing its ethical partner Alan Mann. This annoyed me at Robert Backer would vacation together, citizens present at the Jewish Federation relevance to today’s standards however, first because Anne and I were critically attend Shabbat services and go on of Reading, provide their insight and I never thought an elderly person would analyzing the Talmudic piece and these golfing excursions. intelligence to ensure an enlightened share this same focus. For instance, two were just hashing out jokes! I It is the golfing that Herb loves to tell future generation in us students. This all my gentile grandmother does is eventually figured out that laughter is me about. When golfing with my father notion by far transcends mere Bible study watch Philadelphia Phillies games on as valuable as the learning aspect of and my grandfather, Herb recalls, “Your among students and seniors; it shows the television. I love her to pieces but Better Together. Without the constant dad would crush the ball off the tee. how the Jewish seniors in my Reading honestly, I would not be able to hold a wise-crack remarks from Alan and some Then I would take one stroke … then community are essential in planting the serious religious discussion with her. of the other witty seniors and students, another … and another to get to the spot seeds of knowledge and maturity that will In spite of my doubts, I stuck through our time spent together would not be as where he first hit off the tee!” Besides in turn advise my generation on how we the lesson and gave the elders the proper enjoyable. That is why there is never a photographs and his tallit that I now can live our lives Better Together. Page 12 SHALOM April 2016 Chicago students turn tables on BDS protesters with new tactic Students at University of Illinois at countries — successfully watering down guise of concern about human rights for condemnation was anti-Semitic and Chicago have reframed the anti-Israel the impact. The tactic was an innovative abuses generally.” It added that “the targeted Israel unfairly. divestment debate so that a resolution strategy to try to redirect BDS resolutions charge of anti-Semitism in relation to BDS “Negotiations over the resolution were passed by the student government no instead of fighting all-out against them in arises from the movement’s singling out not easy but we tempered it so that it longer singles out Israel for criticism. universities where pro-Israel elements of Israel among all nations for criticism does not single out one nation, Israel, Rather, it calls on UIC to divest from are outnumbered. The anti-BDS group … and false accusations that Israel for condemnation,” said Moshe Rubin, a companies contributing to alleged human known as Coalition for Peace did not commits crimes such as genocide and student involved with Coalition for Peace. rights abuses in a wide spectrum of endorse the final resolution but did not ethnic cleansing. The implicit objective of “Considering that Jewish students were countries. oppose it with the changes. the global BDS initiative is to end Jewish held to very different standards than BDS The modified resolution passed by A statement issued by Jewish United sovereignty and self-determination by activists, were subject to hostile questioning the student government, which mentions Fund of Chicago stated that, “Coalition eliminating the state of Israel.” and were given no clear directives about the U.S., China, Syria, Brazil, India, the for Peace unmasked the anti-Semitic The Coalition for Peace convinced how to participate in the process, they did a United Kingdom and others, still includes aspects of the anti-Israel divestment student government leaders that the remarkable job,” said Rabbi Seth Winberg, Israel, but only on a list with many other campaign, which was cloaked under the original resolution that singled out Israel executive director of Metro Chicago Hillel. Israeli water purifier on way to thirsty Papua New Guinea Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is African nations for more than 20 years. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs New Guinea in overcoming the drought. donating a GalMobile water purification Last March, they sent a GalMobile to the announced its purchase of the vehicle at Hundreds of children there die every year vehicle to drought-stricken Papua New Marshall Islands in the Pacific, where an event at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from diseases caused by drinking non- Guinea, an independent island nation drinking water is in seriously short supply. in Jerusalem led by Deputy Foreign potable water, he told participants, who north of Australia, in which about 85 The GalMobile is a mobile potable water- Minister Tzipi Hotovely and Raphael included officials from the World Bank, percent of the 6 million citizens lack treatment, storage and distribution system Morav, director of the Pacific Department MASHAV-Israel’s Agency for International access to electricity and tap water. that connects to any possible water source of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Development Cooperation, the Economy The Caesarea-based G.A.L. Water and produces drinking water at World G.A.L. Water Technologies Rami and Industry Ministry, Kawasaki Israel, Technologies and the Foreign Ministry Health Organization standards in less than Aflalo demonstrated the GalMobile’s Polaris Israel and the Water Industry have teamed up to provide water-treatment 30 minutes, yielding about 8,000 cups of capabilities and explained how the Manufacturers Association of Israel products on a humanitarian basis to water per hour. system will aid the residents of Papua (MAI). Pressure-sensing socks could help reduce foot ulcers in diabetics Israel21c.com due to incorrect posture, anatomical “This is a classic mobile health and business graduate students, and tutors Though regular checkups are helpful deformation or ill-fitting shoes are registered approach,” said Prof. Yaakov Nahmias, them in the science and practice of bringing in monitoring pressure and ulceration in as electrical signals that are relayed to a BioDesign program director. “By giving a medical innovation to the market. diabetics, the ideal scenario would be to smartphone app, which in turn informs the patients and their families the tools they The program is led by Nahmias, who stop ulcers from developing in the first wearer of developing risk. need to prevent the development of ulcers, also directs the Alexander Grass Center for place. “This is a significant medical problem we can dramatically reduce healthcare Bioengineering at the Hebrew University of Members of the BioDesign: Medical that affects the lives of millions. We thought costs related to diabetes.” Jerusalem; and Prof. Chaim Lotan, director Innovation program, created by the there must be a way to avoid these wounds Those costs are estimated at $10 billion of the Heart Institute at Hadassah Medical Hebrew University of Jerusalem and altogether,” said Danny Bavli, the group’s in the United States alone. The cost in Center. its affiliated Hadassah Medical Center, lead engineer. human suffering is incalculable. Innovations produced by BioDesign recently introduced their answer to the Bavli partnered with Sagi Frishman In general, medical devices take three program participants are commercialized problem: SenseGO, a machine-washable and Dr. David Morgenstern, a leading or four years to reach the market, he adds. by Yissum, the technology transfer sock containing dozens of micro-fabricated orthopedic surgeon at Hadassah Medical BioDesign: Medical Innovation is a company of the Hebrew University of pressure sensors. Center, to develop SenseGO. MBA multidisciplinary, team-based approach Jerusalem, and Hadasit, the technology When a person with diabetes wears students Inbal Boxerman and Yael Hadar to medical innovation. The program takes transfer company of Hadassah Medical SenseGO socks, changes in pressure also worked with the team. outstanding medical fellows, bioengineering Center. Israeli organization treats bodies and souls of refugees in Serbia Israel21c.com in Nepal right now training midwives and Recently Natan’s crew discovered that Similarly, he witnessed a refugee asking In the wake of the massive stream of refugees providing sex education to teenage girls. a woman used her food allowance to buy relief workers giving out warm winter jackets into Europe from Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and “We know how to give guidance on other chocolates for herself and her children. “At if he could have one that looked different other conflict areas, administrators from the issues such as solutions for accommodation, first I started getting angry that she spent the than the rest. Israeli nonprofit Natan assessed needs in children’s nutrition, equipment, etc.,” said money on chocolate, but then I just realized “Again I felt rising anger at this chutzpah, Serbia – the last stop before refugees continue Natan field coordinator Einav Levy, who has that this is her way of giving something to but then I realized it’s the same thing as the on to European Union countries — and decided a master’s degree in public health and is herself in this chaos — something that will chocolate,” says Levy. “This was a person to establish the clinic on Nov. 20 last year. studying for a doctorate in medicine. give them spiritual strength to continue. The with no ability to differentiate himself, to Rotations of Israeli volunteers will continue at “I think our added value is not necessarily refugees know that in any case they will express himself or choose anything but an least until the next assessment in May, Natan a professional medical response, but the receive staple food items at various stations unusual coat. And actually that is what we’re COO Gal Yoffe tells ISRAEL21c. way we know how to adapt our abilities to … She will not die of starvation.” fighting for here.” “The number of patients varies, but there the needs of the area with flexibility and are always between 50 and 190 every day,” proactiveness,” Levy told ISRAEL21c. Yoffe said. “What they need also varies. At first Yoffe has many medical-related stories it was mostly infections and viruses, then cold- to share – some tragic, such as the 2-year- KZ Chinese Auction related injuries such as hypothermia, frostbite, old refugee child with a heart condition who fractures and sprains from slipping on ice. We arrived at the clinic with no pulse and could not also provide treatment for chronic conditions be revived. Yet it’s the personal interactions Sunday, April 3, noon to 3 p.m. such as diabetes, cardiac or kidney disease. that stay with him most. Kesher Zion Synagogue, The most frequent patients are children and “We had a case of a deaf man who pregnant women.” arrived at the camp with no papers, so he Doors open at noon. Don’t miss all the fun!!!! Funded mainly by donations from the was in limbo; he couldn’t go back and couldn’t Jewish Disaster Response Corps and the continue forward. He was in such despair that Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, Natan he tried to kill himself several times.” runs the only international clinic inside the Yoffe devoted a whole day to figuring out registration camp. “It’s the most approachable what the deaf man was trying to say. “He one,” Yoffe said tactfully. “There’s also a came from a very rural area in Afghanistan. I Serbian clinic in the camp but it’s hidden managed to understand through his gestures between buildings and people don’t know and drawings that he was telling me about it’s there and the treatment quality is not as his family murdered by the Taliban. One child good.” survived and flew to Austria, and he wanted Trust the pest experts As of mid-February, a crew of four was to reunite with him. So we told the police and quite busy receiving and sometimes seeking they managed to give him papers. Then we With over 80 years of experience, we’ve seen and out patients who can’t get there on their own. put his story in writing so he could show it to solved just about every pest problem imaginable. They also provide training to members of authorities. Hopefully he arrived in Austria and partner NGOs on how to quickly lift the spirits found his son,” says Yoffe. • Termite Control • General Pest Control of tired and traumatized people and give them Levy says that as the Natan teams • Bird & Bat Control • Mosquito & Tick Control a boost to continue their trip towards better strive to treat hordes of refugees with life, according to Info Park. top-notch medical care and compassion, • Bed Bug Control • Weed Control Natan’s expertise comes from its local they’ve identified a common psychological • Ant & Spider Control • Year Round Protection experience and from assisting displaced phenomenon no less important than the people in Nepal, Haiti, Philippines and India physical: the loss of their sense of individuality Call Ehrlich at (855) 226-0075 or visit jcehrlich.com over the past 13 years. Two volunteers are and freedom of choice. Page 13 SHALOM April 2016 How Justice Scalia’s death affects issues of concern to Jews With the sudden passing of justice life; conservatives note that the laws were admitted through what the university U.S. v. Texas Antonin Scalia, the Supreme Court is now passed largely owing to anti-Catholic calls a “holistic” system that takes race Texas led 26 states last year in split between liberals and conservatives, bigotry toward the end of the 19th into account. filing lawsuits challenging the Obama throwing into doubt how the court will century, as a means of keeping parochial Jewish groups have filed amicus administration’s plans in late 2014 to rule on a raft of cases — including schools from being funded. briefs with the university opposing race add parents to a 2012 program that some of particular interest to Jewish In this case, a Missouri Blaine based quotas, but favoring broad-based indefinitely defers the deportation of communiities. Amendment is keeping a church from programs which advance diversity. illegal immigrants who arrived in the Officials at Jewish organizations benefitting from a state program that Justice Elena Kagan recused herself United States as children spoke to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency recycles tires into rubber used to repave in 2013 and is doing so again in this Federal courts have put a hold on the about six cases that may turn out playgrounds, making them safer. case. Without Kagan, when Scalia was program, which would apply to about 5 differently without Scalia on the court. On paper, this looks like a 4-4 split, alive, the university appeared headed million undocumented immigrants. The Zubik v. Burwell which would keep the church from for a 5-3 defeat. Steve Freeman, the Obama administration has asked the In 2013, the Obama administration accessing the program, as lower courts director of legal affairs for the Anti- Supreme Court to consider whether the allowed faith-based employers to work have ruled for the state. But Marc Stern, Defamation League, said a shrunken states have standing to bring the suit. around the contraceptive coverage the general counsel to the American seven-judge court might be reluctant The Anti-Defamation League and the mandate in the Affordable Care Act. Jewish Committee, which has backed to rule sweepingly and could favor a National Council of Jewish Women back Under the system, religious nonprofits the church in an amicus brief, suggested narrower ruling that would not have the Obama administration’s prerogative such as parochial schools, could refer Justice Stephen Breyer, the Jewish judge national implications. in this case. The AJC’s Stern noted that employees to outside insurance agencies who has at times broken with fellow Evenwel v. Abbott because the lower courts have favored for such coverage. A number of religious liberals on the court and decried church- The conservative activist plaintiffs the states, this is one of the cases where organizations have since argued that state separation overreach, could side in this case want Texas to apportion Scalia’s absence is less consequential. the mere fact of filling in a government with the conservatives in this case. election district populations according Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt form that would allow employees to Fisher v. University of Texas to registered voters and not according A federal appeals court has upheld get contraceptive coverage elsewhere The Supreme Court in 2013 sent this to total population, which includes non- a Texas law mandating regulations on violates their rights. case back to the appellate court, saying voters such as children, felons and abortion clinics that reproductive rights A split decision would allow the seven that the lower court’s decision did not non-citizen immigrants. The Reform advocates say are onerous and aimed lower court decisions to stand – which adequately take into account the high movement, the AJC and ADL have all primarily at shutting down abortion would be chaotic since they had a range bar for allowing affirmative action, set joined briefs favoring apportionment access. of outcomes, some favoring and some by earlier Supreme Court decisions. The according to total population — a system A broad array of Jewish groups have opposing the Obama administration. appellate court reconsidered, and came that boosts the influence of urban areas, joined amicus briefs backing abortion Trinity Lutheran v. Pauley up with the same ruling: The university’s where non-voters are likelier to reside, providers. Reproductive rights advocacy This is the latest case to test the affirmative action program is legal. and which favor Democrats. groups, before Scalia’s death, said the “Blaine Amendment” laws passed in 37 In the program, the top 10 percent of Scalia’s absence could mean a 4-4 case could be as consequential as Roe states banning their governments from any graduating high school class in Texas vote – which would revert the decision v. Wade. Should the court split 4-4, the funding religious institutions. Liberals is automatically admitted to the university, to a lower court, which has ruled in case would devolve back to Fifth Circuit tout the laws as necessary protections making up 75 percent of a freshman favor of apportionment according to total Appeals Court ruling upholding the law against religious encroachment on public class. The remaining 25 percent are population. only in the states in that district. Joint Distribution Committee’s efforts to foster resilience in Nepal

Though nearly a year has passed Further exacerbating the situation, provided included: - 2 metric tons of other emergency since the first of the devastating twin an unofficial blockade on the border Hygiene food aid earthquakes struck Nepal on April 25, with India prevented the passage of - 4,282 Water filters and purifiers • Shelter Supplies distributed 2015, the country is still reeling from the many ground shipments into Nepal, producing over 800,000 gallons daily - 2,096 tents and tarpaulins impact. Over 8,800 people perished and creating severe shortages of fuel, gas, - 5,585 hygiene kits distributed - 1,484 blankets and flashlight 22,300 suffered injuries. The destruction and medical supplies and obstructing - 5,888 hand and dish soap bars distributed of nearly 600,000 homes and damage to program delivery. Through increasing distributed • 7 Temporary Spaces and 6 child another 280,000 has irrevocably altered collaboration with partners, and Medical friendly spaces constructed the landscape of the country. restructuring some programs to meet this - Emergency medical kits for three JDC’s key priorities in Nepal include Hundreds of thousands of survivors, new reality, JDC adapted its response months of health care serving 10,000 the provision of community-based disaster in addition to grieving over families to the growing needs. At the same people risk reduction programs, livelihood support members who perished, have lost their time, JDC continued to target women - 3,824 pounds medical supplies — especially for women, reconstruction of homes, their food stores, and sources of and marginalized groups, who were to local hospitals critical health facilities and public health livelihood. Living in makeshift shelters, vulnerable prior to the catastrophe and - Emergency treatment of 700 education programs. Responding to the they faced additional danger during the who are now especially at risk for long- patients massive scale of damage in the area, summer monsoon season, as heavy term economic and social distress. JDC Food distributed JDC has undertaken multiple projects to rains caused landslides, flooding, and has assisted about 50,000 of the most - Three meals a day for one week; re-establish a semblance of normalcy in increased risks of water-borne disease. vulnerable people in Nepal. 142,560 meals for 6,788 people daily life. Now with winter in full swing, the many During the weeks immediately - 39,000 kilograms of food for As of December, JDC had allocated thousands of people lacking adequate following the disasters, JDC’s response school meals $1.7 million of the $2.4 million raised for shelter are suffering from the cold focused on the provision of emergency - Over 25,600 kilograms of rice JDC’s Nepal emergency and recovery temperatures. relief. The supplies and assistance seeds and pulses efforts. Abbas rejected new U.S. peace initiative presented by Biden Palestinian Authority President peace talks included designating East Al-Quds. “We see in her a martyr who watered Mahmoud Abbas turned down a U.S. Jerusalem as the capital of the future Meanwhile, Abbas reportedly praised the pure earth of Palestine with her blood,” peace initiative presented to him during Palestinian state, halting settlement as a “martyr” a Palestinian woman who Abbas wrote, and signed it “Your brother, a West Bank meeting with Vice President construction in the West Bank and eastern tried to kill an Israeli soldier in a car- Mahmoud Abbas, president of the State Joe Biden, the Jewish Telegraphic Agency Jerusalem, Palestinian recognition of Israel ramming attack at the Gush Etzion junction of Palestine.” reported, citing a Palestinian newspaper. as a Jewish nation-state and giving up the in the West Bank. The letter was sent to the Following a meeting with Israeli Prime The report in the Jerusalem-based demand for a Palestinian right of return. parents of Amani Husni Sabatin, 34, from Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Al-Quds cited a source familiar with the Palestinian political analysts played the Palestinian Embassy in Jordan, whose Secretary of State John Kerry criticized the details. down the significance of Biden’s visit to ambassador is reportedly related to the failure of Palestinian and international leaders The new American initiative to restart Ramallah and his proposal, according to attacker, according to the Times of Israel. to condemn terror attacks in Israel. What you need to know: Trade facilitation and trade enforcement act President Obama recently signed the concerns regarding enforcement of the application of the anti-BDS provisions and a negotiated solution. Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement BDS provisions related to the West Bank should be discussed in a civil and The peace plan proposed by the Act of 2015, legislation which includes and the president’s prerogative regarding thoughtful manner, recognizing that United States, European Union, Russia, important provisions against calls to for foreign policy. ultimately they touch on issues that must and the United Nations specifically calls boycotts, divestments and sanctions The Israel Action Network offers these be negotiated by the parties themselves. for the normalization of relations between (BDS) against Israel. The bill was thoughts on the measure: A peaceful, two-state future requires the Arab states and Israel. BDS works as adopted with broad bipartisan support The president and Congress have increased economic interaction and an impediment to reaching this objective. in both the House and Senate. The anti- showsn strong opposition to boycotts, opportunities for Israelis and Palestinians. Arab countries have imposed a boycott BDS language within the bill prioritizes divestment campaigns, and sanctions Economic sanctions against either party against Israel since it was established in opposing BDS for U.S. trade negotiations, targeting the state of Israel. It is clear that undermine these efforts. 1948. Progress toward peace in the protects American companies operating Americans believe economic sanctions BDS tactics are divisive and region has come from rejecting this in Israel, and requires the Administration against Israel are not only an impediment regressive. If we truly want to help approach, as evidenced by the signing of to report on global BDS activities. to peace, but are also inconsistent with both parties reach a peaceful solution, peace treaties between Israel and Egypt The president included with this bill a America’s national interests. we should instead be encouraging and Israel and Jordan that has resulted signing statement which makes clear his Differences of opinion regarding the constructive engagement, investment, in trade and engagement. Page 14 SHALOM April 2016 Remembering when, again, with Tootie Moyer

By Tootie Moyer all over my bedroom walls) or Clark days are gone, don’t you? merry-go-round and The Thunderbolt? Do you remember me? I remember Gable or Marilyn Monroe with our kids. After graduation most of our kids Then we would take a trolley back to you — you’re the person that enjoyed my We never heard of a movie rating, the stayed in this area. There were lots of Penn Street and walk home. Like the columns so much. So here I am again. whole family could go to every movie. Do jobs here and in other parts of Berks old saying goes “those were the good Weren’t your past days great? We you remember when Clark Gable said, “I County. Now many of your kids have old days”. didn’t have much money, a smartphone don’t give a damn,” and there was such left to live and work in other states, even They were good but still not as good or computers or television sets, but we an outcry about this. Now that is one of overseas. as today. Today we are wiser, more had fun, playing Parcheesi, Monopoly or the mildest quotes. As I am writing this the weather is tolerant and better human beings, and cards in the evening with our kids. We Sitting outside on our steps in the “lousy.” It is damp and cold. I was just best of all we have grandkids, and great- didn’t even hear a “ring” that came from summer was delightful. NO fear of thinking of the nice, warm weather when grandkids. Don’t you agree? a cellphone. anyone getting hurt, no fumes for SUV’s, we were young and could go to Carsonia Thank you for taking this journey back I remember going to the movies to no swearing. It was just a relaxed few Park — “wow,” what fun we had there. in time with me. You “youngsters” are the see Robert Taylor (I had pictures of him hours with our neighbors. I think those Remember the whiz bang, tunnel of love, heart and soul of this country.

Berks memories strong in our Florida contingent

Discussing Berks County and more are, from left, Betty and Jack Hafetz, Joanie and Itz Friedman, Diane Schreiber, Sandy and Ron Miller, Joanne and Stu Zager, and Dana and Bill Salsburg. Missing: Howie Schreiber

Charoset 172 plus Charoset Contributed by Irene Stern Friedman Can you find 172 words that come from Charoset? To make it easier, list those beginning with the letter “a”, then “c”, “e”. “h”, “o”, “r”, “s” and “t”…etc] Answer on Page 15 A few laughs for Passover

Contributed by Dr. Ellis Friedman Q: Why do we have a Haggadah at Passover? A: So we can Seder right words.

Q: What do you call someone who derives pleasure from the bread of affliction? A: A matzochist. - As Moses and the children of Israel were crossing the Red Sea, the children of Israel began to complain to Moses of how thirsty they were after walking so far. Unfortunately, they were not able to drink from the walls of water on either side of them, as they were made up of saltwater. Then, a fish from that wall of water told Moses that he and his family heard the complaints of the people, but that they through their own gills could remove the salt from the water and force it out of their mouths like a fresh water fountain for the Israelites to drink from as they walked by. Moses accepted this kindly fish’s offer. But before the fish and his family began to help, they told Moses they had a demand. They and their descendants had to be always present at the seder meal that would be established to commemorate the Exodus, since they had a part in the story. When Moses agreed to this, he gave them their name which remains how they are known to this very day, for he said to them, “Go Filter Fish!” Happy Passover! Page  Shalom March 2010 Community News Obituaries

Lucy Suzanne Knoblauch L. (Sulman) Moyer. He is also survived Zeidman, 96, Wyomissing. by his daughters, Aileen D., widow Surviving are a son, Bruce F., of Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman, of Roxanne, wife of Les Walker, of Batavia Shillington; a brother, Harry Knoblauch, Ohio; sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine husband of Edith Knoblauch, of Reading; K. Moyer, of Sinking Spring and Jay a sister, Ruth Balis of Wyomissing; and H., husband of Margaret R. Moyer, of several nieces and nephews. Muhlenberg Township. Other survivors --- are grandchildren: Brett A. Endy, Chad Irene S. Zeidman, 62, Wyomissing. M. Endy 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 of Shillington. --- Yemin Orde --- Shirley Robinson of B’nai B’rith Area resident and recent college Robert Berger, 54, Reading. Apartments. Survived by her Friendship graduate Jessica Flamholz sent us He was the former spouse of Lea Circle friends. these pictures from her recent visit Berger, Reading. He is survived by --- to Yemin Orde, an Israeli village two daughters, Molly R. Berger, State Louis Malamud, 95, formerly for children and youth supported College, and Bethany S. Berger, of Temple. He is survived by a son, April 2016 SHALOM by our Federation.Page 15 Reading; and one brother, Dr. Barry M. Mitchel, husband of Laura Malamud, Berger, husband of Kathleen A. Vieweg, of Las Vegas; grandchildren Barry Gardening with Vicky Boston, Mass. husband of Johna Malamud, Deborah All Around the Town______--- Babbit-Malamud and Sheri Malamud; Spring flowering shrubs David Moyer, 85, Reading. and great-grandchildren: Jessy Babbit, By MazelJoan G. tov Friedman to parents Andrea theBadal stepmother, who has in received “Disney’s the Cinderella honor of He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Carly Malmud and Ian Malamud. By Vicky Sokoloff FogelmanCongratulations and Jeff Gauby to Korey, grandparents Blanck Kids”being atchosen Genesius as the Theatre. Child Advocate of One of the sure signs of spring is and to Edith Blanck on the birth of the Year for the State of Pennsylvania. Shelley and Larry Fogelman, and great We love good news about members seeing shrubs and small trees begin to grandmothertheir new granddaughter Miriam Fogelman and ongreat- the *** Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests! bloom. Forsythia is one of the earliest granddaughter! of ourBest community! wishes to Pleaseour Berks share County it by birth of Olivia Jill. emailing [email protected]. and most common. We usually see ****** athletes competing in the 2010 Maccabi yellow, but there is a more rare white form Mazel TovTov to to Molly the Bluestone Nemirow, daughter Family: Games: Shalom Newspaper (Joan Friedman) Abeliophyllum distichum. ofTo Geri David and and Mark Marianna Nemirow, on hertheir role new as EmilyUntil & nextJared time: Baksic Shalom!, swimming Another favorite is the lilac. The daughter and to grandparents Eric and Andrew Blickle, basketball 5” (2 col.) x 7” heirloom purple is a reliable bloomer. It Marissa. Matthew Eisenberg, swimming Questions? has a long life and needs very little care. Winter nesting *** to NCAAHannah and basketball Alexis Glassmire, Contact Jodi Gibble, Marketing Director Again, there are cultivars including white Congratulations to Charles and swimming and a bi-color variety called Sensation. ByBrenda Anne Diamond Seltzer on the engagement the Brandonopening weekend Missan, soccerof the tournament READING The Highlands at Wyomissing It is important to remember that shrubs of theirEven son though Brett andthis to grandfather Al offers the best entertainment of the year. 2801 Papermill Road 2000 Cambridge Ave., Wyomissing, PA 1910 that bloom in the spring need to be pruned wasDiamond among. the better You can put a page of celebrities in front White forsythia Wyomissing, Pennsylvania 10-288-3405 shortly after they bloom. If you were to weather winters I ***can of meUntil and I’ll next only be time: able to Shalom! identify a few, prune in early spring you would be cutting rememberMazel Tov in torecent Rosalind Hyman and but [Emailif you put all youra page simcha of college news basketball to joan@ GROUP RATES AVAILABLE off the area where buds are preparing to history,her daughter, for some Attorney. reason Cathy Hyman playersfriedman.net] and coaches in front of me, I’ll get develop. my nesting instinct almost 100 percent correct. When I went Call Alice for a Site Tour The redbud tree produces lovely kicked in. PerhapsKEEP UP WITH THEto fill COMMUNITY out my brackets (after all what fun is it flowers in the spring. And since it isa it was the six new if you don’t have a little money in the pot?), (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com native species, it is easy to grow. Nearly cookbooksVisit I “had www.readingjewishcommunity.org to Jonathan said, “Mom, go with your gut, all of the spring flowering shrubs and trees have”. Or the fact I couldn’t find things in you certainly watch enough basketball”. flower before any foliage is produced. the kitchen, or found things way out of date. Well, apparently that didn’t work for me Before pruning any small tree or Of a combination of the above. or anyone else according to ESPN, who shrub you should find out if it blooms Whatever it was, we now have lots reported that due to a series of upsets, on old or new wood. While lilacs bloom of new favorite recipes. From Kimchi by the third day of the tournament no one on old wood, butterfly bushes bloom on Pancakes, to Riced Cauliflower and Veggie had a perfect bracket. That is what makes II hadhad nono idea!idea! Sensation lilac II hadhad nono idea!idea! new growth. Lilacs are best pruned by Stir Fry, to Abbie’sou’ve chocolate worked chip hardrecipe, to accumulateit March Madness!! your wealth. And that is why we We hear this again and again from residents of The Highlands. removing old canes from the center of the your life, this will impact you. Without the and apricot chocolateYTrust chip it bars, to someone they were whowatch will the work games. even harder to • People are so friendly. plant. Many plants have specific pruning information and research provided by this all keepers. The unfortunate part is that And thanks Alan for being such a good • There’s so much for me to do. requirements. funding the quality, availability, and price many new Internetgrow your recipes assets were and added provide sport!!! you with peace of mind • I love the independence and One place many people turn to get of the food you buy could be negatively to my collection,as you so plan now for I have the future.them, FromBecause financial we planning were invitedand to a this information is the county agricultural affected. with the new cookbooks and five cooking neighborhood party and I wanted to watch privacy at The Highlands. Extension office. That resource is in At this writing it appears that the long magazines I investmentget each month. management You would to thecustom games credit at unnamed solutions, local establishment • I don’t worry about my future. serious jeopardy. There is currently no budget battle between state legislators think I’m a foodiedeposit or products something! and Yes, more. I starting Clermont at noon, Wealth I decided Strategies to pull this time- • Dining is like a fine restaurant. funding for agricultural research and and Gov. Tom Wolf may be over and that read five of the six cookbooks and all of tested, easy recipe out of my recipe bag. • My kids are so glad I’m here. – personal, focused and highly confidential. extension programs as a result of the funding for these crucial programs will be the magazines, plus all the food blogs I However, it is a new version of my old • I feel like I’m at a resort. governor’s line item veto of the Land reinstated. get every day, and still found some time to favorite, and easy, easy easy to make! • This was a smart and valuable Script Fund. For a while it looked as though Penn clean out the spice drawer(s) and baking financial decision. If this fund is so important, why did State could become the first university drawers. Please do not think that I’ve Texas Sheet Cake • They do things first class. this happen? Exactly because it is so to ever lose Land Grant status. There gone throughFinancial the Planning pantries or gotten rid of 1 c.Comprehensive margarine or Investment butter ½Management tsp. salt important. Agriculture accounts for a are 145 active Master Gardeners in doubles of all the little cooking implements 1 c. water 1 tsp. baking soda • I wish I’d moved here sooner. Custom Credit Solutions Bank Deposit & Convenience Products significant portion of the state’s economy. Berks County. Even though they are I “had to have”. That would be against my 4 T. cocoa 2 eggs • I love it here! There is a real danger that all 67 county all volunteers, those services would be personal Wealthneed for Preservation clutter around & Transfer me. Services This 2 c.Retirement sugar Planning½ c. sour cream Extension offices could close just as the suspended if the extension office were is something I definitely need, my piles. 2 c. flour 1 tsp. vanilla growing season reaches its peak. forced to close. Piles of magazines, Internet articles, and Melt butter, water and cocoa and bring Come tour The Highlands. Not only have we lost the $50.5 million I encourage readers to keep a just general other stuff. And I can tell you to a boil. Remove from heat and add rest Find out first hand why it is the best place for in state funding, but also nearly twice close eye on these issues as budget which pile something is in and where it is, of the ingredients. Mix until smooth. Pour that amount in matching federal, USDA, talks begin for 2016-17 and demand as long as you don’t touchCLERMONT them! GoodW EALintoTH aS greasedTRATEGIES 11x16x1.5” jelly roll pan. retirement living. county and other funds. that your tax dollars are used as they thing I don’t clean or I never would have ATBake at 350◦ for 20 minutes. Even if you have never grown a plant in should be. found time to watch college basketball. My Frosting If you’re exploring options and choices other winter pastime. ½ c. margarine or butter for your retirement years, be sure to call When the NCAA Tournament started 1 lb. powdered sugar us for a tour. You too can be a part of in March, I faithfully watched at least 75 4 T. cocoa this wonderful lifestyle. We have every- 1 c. chopped walnuts (optional) percent of the games by frequenting a local thing from a studio apartment to gracious establishment with a few of my besties1.866.332.8393 6 T. milk 1 tsp. vanilla cottages. We would love to meet you (one of my besties, who will goclermontwealth.com unnamed, Bring butter, cocoa and milk to a boil. decided it was more important to travel to Remove from heat and stir in powdered and answer your questions. distant lands); and then upon returning sugar and nuts (if using). Add vanilla. Pour home, turned the games on beforeSecurities taking and Insuranceon cake Products: as soon as it comes out of the Not FDIC-Insured • Not Insured by any Federal Government Agency Call for lunch and a tour today. off my coat and feedingNo Financial Buttons. Institution To Guarantee me •oven. May lose Enjoy!!! value • Not a deposit 10-775-2300

EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ Passover Seder at Manor at Market Square Thursday, April 28 at 10:45 a.m. Jewish Family Service and Manor at Market Square invite you to a Seder led by Sari and Carole. Reservations required by April 18.

Charoset answers hearts heat heats her ho hora horas hose host host hot hots har a ace aces aches act acts ah arch o oar oars oat oats ochre oh or ore arches are arose arse art arts as ate ahs ores other others car care cares caret carets cars cart race races rachet rachets rat rate carts case cast cat cats char chars chart rates rats reach rest rho rhos roast rose charts chase chaste chat chats cheat roses rot rots cheats chest chore chores chose coast sac sachet sat sate scar scare scat core cores cost crate crates crest cot score scot sea sear search seat sect set cots corset share she shear shore shot so soar sore each ear ears earth east eat eats echo sort sot star stare store era eras etch tach tar tare tars tea teach tear tears ha hare hares hart harts has haste teas tech techs the those to toe toes tore hat hate hates hats he hear hears heart trace traces torah torahs torch torches Page  March 2010 Page  16 SHALOMShalom AprilMay 2016 2010 JewishJewish Family Family ServiceService CarDiscussionSenior donation LIFE of helps addiction sustain important JFS programs to all By Sari Incledon, M.M.Ed. Ed. Awill wide not be range limited of to supportissues dealing services with allOthers) medical provided appointments. the following The statistics. care ForJFS every Discussion person Groups who has a By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. JFS (and get a tax donation at the same Simon and VeeVee Scott. We could not run Pesadich desserts. Thanks to Jeff Bornstein CaroleWe invite Robinson the entire designedadolescents. to Drugsustain and alcoholindependence abuse is teamAccording consists to Dr. of Jayphysicians, Holder, Medicalnurses, substanceEncore —abuse a discussion problem, group several for Thank you to Dave time) call me at 610-921-0624 or go to the food bank without them. and Corinne Wernick for their assistance in andcommunity I recently to visited attend a area problem provided. for all Seniors age groups, who join and will we beall therapists,Director and social founder workers, of homethe Exodus health seniorsothers are meets affected. monthly Those at the affected JCC. Walker for participating www.charitableautoresources.com. On April 2 JFS sponsored a Seder at serving the meal. Generous contributions Seniorprogram LIFE, Jewish a new Family ableneed to knowaccess more an aboutarray it. of services aides,Treatment dietary Center specialists in Miami, and chemicalothers. Wemay talk be about spouses, what parents,is in the newschildren, and in our car donation Each month our food bank serves more the Manor at Market Square. The Manor’s made in memory of Natalie Adelglass by healthService care is sponsoring:provider at Inthe a Shelbournerecent article, Road “Overcoming facility dependencyTo be eligible is the numberfor Senior one secretLIFE whatsiblings, is on grandparents the minds of the – participants.all are hurt program. The proceeds and more people. (In March we served residents were joined by residents of family and friends underwrote the Seder. located“What Every at Family20 andDenial” at ( Na’amatother providersWoman Winter including 2009/10) participantsin the Jewish must community. be 55 years Reportedly, of age Ourin different next meeting ways. isWhat Monday, can Aprilwe as 11, a from his auctioned car 182 people in 62 households). We could Providence House and Friendship Circle Finally, thanks to the bakers of the ShelbourneNeeds to Know Road about occupationalBarbara Trainin Blank therapy, wrote: “Alcohol physical and orup older,to 50 percentdetermined of patient to be populations medically atcommunal 3 p.m. All organization are welcome. do Call to addressSari for will help support our not provide this important service without seniors. Boscov’s provided a delicious meal, Kesher Zion religious school and Temple inAlcohol Exeter Township. and Drug therapy,chemical dependencyspeech therapy, don’t discriminate,eye, dental eligiblein some and residential able to be treatment safely served centers in information.the problem? Awareness is an important programs. If you would dedicated volunteers. Thank you to long- enjoyed by all. A big thank you to baker Oheb Sholom’s sisterhood for providing us TenAbuse other & Addiction: Senior An andaffecting foot Jewscare, and recreational non-Jews alike,therapy, and theare community.Jews – as are For 20 those percent who of qualify those firstLiving step withand Losswe invite – a everyonesupport group in the like to learn more about time volunteers Karen Sherman and Norman extraordinaire Sheila Bornstein for furnishing with hamentashen that were distributed to LIFEInteractive centers Dialogue are socializationwomen as much and transportation as men. Addiction to the forcalling Medicare national and drug Medicaid hot lines (yetthere Jews is forcommunity people who to sharehave lost questions a loved oneand this easy way to help Wilikofsky and to our new volunteers Jan participants with a vast array of gourmet seniors in long term care residences. alreadywith David in operation Rotenberg.” Seniorand alcoholism LIFE center can andbe found to all medicalin every nocomprise cost to less join. than More 3 percent information of the U.S. is withinconcerns the lastat ouryear, above we meet mentioned once a inThis Pennsylvania. program will In be held Wednesday, appointments.socioeconomic and religious segment of availablepopulation). from Chemical an Outreach dependency Coordinator is the month.program For on moreApril 28.information call Sari otherApril 28states at 7 this p.m. program at the JCC.is called PACE. theMembers Jewish community”. will alsoLiving be provided with –third 610-404-3200 leading Loss killer or in call the SariU.S. at It 610-921-is also an at 610-921-0624.Our program Our is next free, meeting though will As Davidmany ofis youthe know,executive in Pennsylvania director of withAn durable article medicalon the equipment,JACS Web 0624.unreported and/or unknown contributor bereservations Monday, April are requested.18 at 3 p.m. For more theAdolescent word “PACE” Youth is used Services for a prescription at Caron personalsite (Jewish careMondays, Alcoholics,(bathing, grooming, May Chemically 10 and and to 24, deaths 3:00- caused 4:30 by car p.m. accidents, heart information, call Sari at 610-921- drugFoundation, program however for low-income his presentation seniors. dressing),Dependent social Persons services, and Significanthomecare attacks, suicidesJewish and Familystrokes. Service Food0624. Pantry Collection So, this program is in other states with a and companionFor more visits information as well as an call Sari at 610-921-0624 Volunteer Opportunities Available – differentBERKS name. ENCORE PROVIDESon-call FREE nurse TAX 24 PREPARATION hours a day, seven We are serving more families The Senior LIFE’s mission is to days a week. Jewish Family Service seeks volunteers to help our seniors FROM TRAINED VOLUNTEERS each month! Please bring partner with members, family and Each member of the Senior LIFE with grocery shopping and other errands. donations of canned tuna, soup, community to enable members to care team meets with the senior and If you have some time, call Sari or Carole at 610-921-0624. remainWas at home your householdwhile preserving income theless family than to $50,000 develop a in customized 2009? care What happens fruitsafter and vegetables to dignity and autonomy.HouseholdDid you Theknow income approach the Hampton may is be plan.Inn higher Wyomissing The goalin some is tois improvenewlycases, the quality Kesher Zion or the JCC. member-centeredrenovated?but and call accomplishedIt’s 610-374-3195 true, when yourof lifefor family andmore maximize comes details. to town,independence in a a hospitalJewish stay? Family ServiceThank thanks you! by promotingCall today open to schedule communication an appointment home setting. from nowThe care until is April provided 15. by and advancedwhy care crowd planning your through home? We a havea team a heated in the indoorsenior’s pool, home and in the Join us for thisDr. informative Jeffrey seminar Blank presented D.D.S. by shared decision making process with Senior LIFE Center. All transportation We also need plastic and paper grocery bags! complimentaryBerks Encore, hot breakfast, 40 N. Ninthand a goodSt., 610-374-3195night’s sleep on our for providing professional services to our client. Senior LIFE’sfamous interdisciplinary Cloud 9 bed. team.Did you isalso provided know that to and we fromwash the our center and Womencomforters on and pillows Their with every Own stay? Wouldn’t a success you want Enjoy Tax BenefitsThursday, While MayContributing 20 • 11:30 to am yourBERKS loved ones ENCORE here with us RECEIVESinstead of worrying AWARDS where you’ll at Manor at Market Square By Sheryl Weintraub We are gathering a directory of service Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program TheCongratulations group “Womenfind room? on to WithTheirBerks theOwn” Encore Hampton’s people employees 100%who are guarantee Carolyntrustworthy Krebs and would Some patients require additional has hadand a second Martha meeting, Sitler forandyou receiving it can’twas gobe onewrong. safe of to theinvite Social into a homeSecurity of a woman care after their hospital discharge. veryAdministrations well attended. Wehighest now haveawards 19 foralone. their providing the public with Call SariPlanning at 610-921-0624, ahead will make members. Hampton Inn WyomissingWe are fulfilling the requirement of things easierCall for you Sari after at you leave. information covering Social Security issues. e-mail [email protected] Our goal is1800 to provide Papermill each other Road, with Wyomissing,tzadakah by collectingPA 19560 and donating Learn about the services available 610-921-0624or go to moralBerks support Encore and the enables friendship older of other adults money to achieve to Berks aWomen better In quality Crisis. of for you or a loved one! women who like us, are on their 610-374-8100own. If you would like more information www.charitableautoresources.com lifeAt ourby providingmonthly meeting a comprehensive we learn a about program our group, of services, or if you have referrals, a service Please RSVPor by callingemail 610-373-0800. littleeducation bit about one and another, advocacy. and exchange For more person information or recipe callfor our Berks list, contact Encore Sari [email protected] ideas onat how610-374-3195 to navigate life or withoutvisit them a atat [email protected], www.Berksencorepa.org or sheryl.woto@ partner. gmail.com.

Jewish Family Service thanks Pediatric and Adult Patients  Living with Loss  Treating Ear, Nose, Throat Problems Sarah and Sam Flamholz FREE parking in INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING the Berks Encoreformerly Bereavement Group for their generous donation of a car. Thyroidparking lotNodules, NeckMeals • Housekeeping Masses • Activities& Sinusitis • Transportation located at 9th All-Inclusive Monthly Rent • No Buy-ins The proceeds from the auction of the vehicle will benefit JFS Mondays,and Court Street. March  and 22, 3:00- 4:30 p.m. programs. To learn more about this program go 2131_Shalom_ad:LayoutFor more information1 9/8/09 11:57 AM Pagecall 1803 Physicians:Sari Penn Streetat 610-921-0624 • Reading, PA 19601 to donatingiseasy.org or call Sari at 610-921-0624 2347_Shalom_update:Layout 1 3/30/10 12:21 PM Page 1 James www.manoratmarketsquare.com P. Restrepo, M.D., FACS, • 610-373-0800 ECNU A f f i n i t y CharlesB a n k K.P Lutz,A . c M.D.,o m FACS Af finiJeffreytyBa S.n Driben,kPA. cM.D.,om FACS, ECNU Scott J. Cronin, M.D.

Nurse Practitioner:  Rosemarie Montgomery  Banking the Way  BankMS,in CRNP,g FNP-C It Should Be. Nthowe oWpen ian EyxetIetr. ShoProudulcdts th aBt e. Audiologists: ma ke sense, Kathleen D. Vivaldi, AuD, FAAA Melanie A. Appler, AuD,ser FAAAvice that Matthew R. Bonsall,m aAuD,ke FAAAs friends.

Providing diagnostic and rehabilitative services for all types of hearing loss, for any age group. Hearing and Balance Disorders State of the Art Hearing Aid Fittings In House Hearing Aid Repairs

WWYYOOMMISISSSININGG | RREEAADDININGG ENT HeadSINKING &SPR INNeckG | MU HSpecialists,LENBERG | EXETER PC 985SINK IBerkshireNG SPRING | Blvd., MUHLEN WyomissingBERG | EXETER 610-374-5599610 .•8 9www.ent-hns.net8.7700 610.898.7700 April 2016 SHALOM Page 17 May 2010 Shalom Page 10 Federation Honorial - Memorial Card Information HonorialsHonorials and and Memorials Memorials ContributionsContributions may may be be made made to to the the following following Funds: Funds: Please mail your payment with complete information to the Jewish FederationUJA-Federation Jewish Campaign Community Campaign $10 $10 Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 or bring to the Jewish Jewish Family Service $10 Jewish Family Service $10 Cultural Center, 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125, Wyomissing. You may set up Leo Camp Lecture Fund $10 a “savings account” for the purpose of sending cards. Please contact the JFSLeo FoodCamp Bank Lecture Fund $10 $25 Jewish Federation at 610-921-0624 for further information. JFS TaxiFood Transportation Bank Program $25 $20 JFS Taxi Transportation Program $20 ContributionsContributions asas ofof April March 16 18 Holocaust Library & Resource Center $18 Holocaust Library & Resource Center DorisHolocaust Levin Library Fund & Resource Center $18 $10 In memory of: Doris Levin Fund $10 UJA-Federation Campaign In memory of: In honorBarbara of: Solowey – Rosalye Yashek Barbara Solowey – Elaine Safir SarahAnita LipsonSimon’s (Dena engagement Hammel’s – Vic mother) and Dena – Rosalye Hammel Yashek Michael Clymin (Ellen Abramson’s father) – Susan and Richard D’Angelo Gene Friedman – Debbie Goodman and John Moyer Alma and Ed Lakin’s new home – Vic and Dena Hammel, Mildred & Ivan Frank Mehringer – Edith Mendelsohn Jewish Family Service Dr. Lawrence Harris’ brother – Sue and Mel Blum Gordon In honor of: Sam Goodman’s engagement – Alma and Ed Lakin Jack and Jeff Gernsheimer receiving the Ruth and Irvin Balis Volunteer Harry and Rose Sack Fund (Adult Programming) Alyse Corbin’s marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin Appreciation Award – Edith Mendelsohn InDoris memory Levin of: Fund Sue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer Birth of Shari and Dave Seltzer’s grandson – Andy and Corinne Wernick In memoryFlorence of: “Birdie” Schklowsky – Albert and Nancy Sack Birth of Selma Cutler’s great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr. Walter Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike InMoyer memory of: FriendshipRobinson Circle Fund BirthAnita of Lipson Carol and(Dena Gordon Hammel’s Perlmutter’s mother) new – grandsonMichael Schein, – Debbie Margie Goodman and Alan and In honorShoshana of: Tannenbaum – Carole and Mike Robinson Leisawitz,John Moyer Helene and Henry Singer, Hilde Gernsheimer Birth of Bernie and Carol Gerber’s new grandson – Glenn and Gaye Corbin Barbara Solowey – Ruth Isenberg, Barbara Nazimov, Corinne and Andy Wernick HolocaustBirth of Burt Library and Fran and Krieger’s Resource new granddaughter Center – Glenn and Gaye Corbin GetGene well: Friedman – Edith Mendelsohn, Marcia and George Eligman In memoryEngagement of: of Irv and Arlene Ehrlich’s daughter Melissa – Glenn and Gaye Corbin HaroldRhoda LeiferDersh – – Rob Marcia and and Yvonne George Oppenheimer Eligman Shoshana Tannenbaum – Ken and Mary Holt, George and Sue Viener, Sue Schlanger,In memory Gordonof: and Carol Perlmutter, Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John JFSEvelyn Taxi Thompson Transportation Nursery Program School Fund Deegan,Barbara Naum Solowey and Lyudmila – Irwin Goldstein Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and Anita Lipson (Dena Hammel’s mother) – Glenn and Gaye Corbin In memory of: Marvin Segal, Vic and Dena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & Peter and Helaine Schiffman’s daughter Janet – Glenn and Gaye Corbin ShoshanaGene Friedman Tannenbaum – Rosalye – Beth Yashek and Bob Caster Ivan Gordon, Carrie & Stephen Latman, Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey Schneider, Norman & Rita Wilikofsky, Audrey Williams, Alan and Esther Strauss, FederationJewish Family Jewish Service Community Campaign EvelynJay and Evelyn Thompson Lipschutz, Nursery Carol and School Bernie Gerber, Fund Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, JohnIn memory Castrege of: and family, Michael Geraci, Maxine & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, GetIn honor well/speedy of: recovery: Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Sue and George Viener, LauraGene Higgins Friedman – Sid and Esther Bratt Harriet Baskin — Yvonne and Rob Oppenheimer Betsy and Al Katz Barbara Solowey – Sid and Esther Bratt Bat Mitzvah of Fran Mendelsohn’s granddaughter – Rosalye Yashek Home for the holidays Friendship Circle In memory of: Get well: By ShoshanaJoanie G. FriedmanTannenbaum – Jill and GladysMemories Skaist of her baking hamantashen earlier.Harold You Leifer are such – Glenn an easy and Gayemark!” Corbin So for my children, and especially for my We spend our winters in wonderful, every year with my mother flooded we will spend the first Seder with Marcy, charoseth-maker*! glorious Florida. Although we enjoy the my senses. I was there, watching and Jeff, Daniel and Le, and the second with Joanie G Friedman contributes Holocaustwarm weather and tennis, thereeducation is one participating. Marcyspreading was always an eager inBob andBerks Cindy. County newspaper articles in the US and Canada. disadvantage to being here. Our children student, always enthusiastic about doing I would have missed the conversations Her novels, “The Lakes of Island Springs” Continuedlive up north. from Page 5 alsoa project that with the her students grandma. are In latergenuinely years aboutOn the a Exodus.wider note,I would therehave missed have justiceand “Best and Buds”Holocaust are remembranceon Amazon. today. silenceIn the is past not fivethe reasonmonths whywe havesurvivors spent interestedit was something in hearing we theirenjoyed stories. together. I know beeneveryone many discussing recent developments her wonderful in I am heartened to hear that three additional areboth invitedThanksgiving in. Instead, and Chanukah that factor with the is my Whenstudents I opened were genuinely the package interested and my in Holocaustmatza balls education and chicken in Berkssoup. AndCounty we schools* His charoseth in Berks recipe:County will be offering presentchildren becauseand grandchildren. of the immense There respect was hearinghusband Hilde’s fervently story began and many reaching still talkfor andcan’t theforget surrounding about the afikomen! areas. Within these1 large courses apple, for their peeled students. – cored – and studentsalso a third have time for when these we individuals had to fly andback aboutone and it now, then several another, weeks I knew later. we had theBefore past month the SederI have begins,met with ittwo is choppedThough the fourth quarter of the “home” and enjoyed our granddaughter’s no choice in the matter. About that time, individualstraditionally whoIrwin’s are job in tothe make process the school¼ cup year chopped has begun, walnuts there are still theatre performance. Although they asked, Bob and Cindy called to say our tickets ofcharoseth. developing He willa Holocaust chop the apples course and to many1/8 teaspoonadditional cinnamon opportunities that we decided to stay here for Passover. After were ordered. bewalnuts. offered Next at hetheir will local slowly high add school. some remain.1 drop I just of lemon spoke juice to an and undergraduate ½ tablespoon all, with the expense, we felt we could miss Tearfully I phoned Marcy to say we Onewine. gentlemanAfter he mixes was it all,from he Lancasterwill taste a ethicsSplenda class at Penn State Berks one holiday. would arrive for Seder. When she asked County.small sample. The Asother, he chews Gerry it, Evans, he looks is up a regardingAdd about the ethical/moral 2 tablespoons implications Concord Last week a package arrived. I what made me change my mind, I told teacherto the ceiling at Hamburg and thinks High about School. it. I ofGrape the Holocaust.Pesa-dicka I winefound (or the just students Grape opened it to find a large container of her how touched we were when the haveNo beenmatter in how contact long hewith thinks two aboutother toJuice) be receptive and inquisitive and hamantashen. The note told us our hamantashen arrived. localit, he teachers,always – butPete always! Ruckelshaus – adds ata haveMix been well. asked to deliver a similar daughter baked it with her two children. “Is that all it took?” she asked. “Had I Twintiny bit Valley more and wine. Jim It Konecke is the same at Wilson thing programTaste ain tiny the bit, classes look up that to the the ceiling, same Next came the tears. known, I would have baked them a week Highevery School.year! It’s Pete true. has I am resurrected a soft touch a professorthen pause also and teaches add a drop at Reading more wine! Area course on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community College.  Valley, and its first offering is during As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, SodaStream CEO slams governmentthe for current letting fourth quarter. work He is very permits daughter of theexpire late local Holocaust SodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum SodaStream built its Lehavim plant, excitedof other aboutlegal offeringand illegal this Palestinian course to survivorAn official Richard in Yashek,the Prime is speaking Minister’s at reacted with palpable frustration and which employs around 1,200 workers of hisworks students in Israel. and Each has ofeven his workers,lined up TwinOffice Valley, refused Hamburg to elaborate and Fleetwood. on their anger to the Israeli government’s all stripes, to replace its plant in the West severalhe said, guest supported speakers an includingaverage Rabbiof 10 earlierRight position, now Albright which College stated is that hosting the decision to let work permits for 74 of his Bank industrial zone of Mishor Adumim Brianother peopleMichelson, with theirKim Yashekincome, and including Hilde angovernment exhibit titled, favors “Stories Israeli workers Among overUs: Palestinian employees lapse. near Ma’aleh Adumim, which closed last Gernsheimer.children, but was unlikely to find equally Washingtonforeign workers, State but Connections would do its bestto the to “I had dozens of discussions with autumn. 500 Palestinians lost their jobs goodJim work Konecke at home. is teaching at Wilson Holocaust,help support Lessons the factory. in Genocide.” The government The nearly every ministry and minister and to that closure, but 74 that had families Central“I cannot Junior Highbelieve but will that be movinga Jewish up exhibitoffers incentivesincludes the for stories companies of five Holocaustto open clerk that could possibly have a part in were given permits to work in Israel. toadministration Wilson High wouldSchool askat the me beginning to send survivorsoffices and and plants one in liberator the South, and in haspart this saga,” he told The Jerusalem Post, Birnbaum said he has been working ofchildren next school to their year. hunger,” He will he be said. offering “This a receivedbecause theregood arereviews. so few It employers is definitely to saying he made little headway with the on the permit issue for a year and a coursehas been on the Nazi most Germany. difficult His and students sad day worthcreate a jobsvisit! inIt will the be area. at Albright’s SodaStream’s Gingrich Prime Minister’s Office and Ministries of half, and expressed outrage that the willof my be life.studying I’m the this son period of a ofHolocaust German Libraryemployment through of May 400 10.Benduins makes it Economy, Finance, Homeland Security, government would allow the permits to historysurvivor. in Idepth, cannot including watch thisa study disregard of the the largest employer*** of Beduins in Rahat, Interior, Foreign Affairs, or the police lapse, especially given the large numbers risefor human of anti-Semitism, dignity.” the initial period of BirnbaumJennifer said. 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!

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