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

Enriching Lives Volume 49, No. 11 December 2019 Kislev - Tevet 5780

ShaloThe Journal of the Reading Jewish Communitym published by1 the Jewish2 Federation1 of Reading/Berks9

Your Federation Supports: Jewish Education A chance to tell your story Food Pantry Each of us has a unique story to able to share it with family and Friendship Circle share. Federation’s My Story video friends and each week we’ll choose Chevra project is a new initiative for you one to share with the community.

Community Shabbat to tell your story and speak about We’ll provide some guidelines to your connection to the Jewish help you tell your story. The most Reading Jewish Film Series community. important aspect of this project is PJ Library Many people, including that it is YOUR story. We are a Jewish Family Service family members, don’t know our diverse community and each of own story. How being Jewish us connects in different ways. We Jewish Cultural Center impacted us – good or bad, our want you to tell your story the way Lakin Holocaust Library family background, community you feel most comfortable. & Resource Center involvement, summer camp Time slots are limited. If

Israel & Overseas experience and more. interested or for more information, Story videos will be between contact Richard at Federation Camp Scholarships 2 to 5 minutes and saved in 610.921.0624 or send an email to Israel Trips Federation’s archives. You’ll be [email protected]. Jewish Community

High School Emergency Support Interfaith cooperation in action Lakin Preschool

Richard J. Yashek Lecture

Transportation

Maimonides Society

Your Jewish Legacy

92ND ST Y Programs

Joint Distribution Committee

Meir Panim

Annual Campaign

Jewish Agency for Israel

Yemin Orde

School Education Programs

Interfaith Unity Council

Israel Advocacy

Youth Events

Great Decisions Series

Jewish Community

Relations Council November was a big month for interfaith community events involving Community Holiday Programs our Jewish community. Above, Women’s Philanthropy Holocaust survivors and descendants light memorial candles at the annual Jewish Federations interfaith Kristallnacht commemoration at Christ Episcopal Church in Reading. of North America At left, children from the Jewish, Muslim Counseling Services and Christian communities gather for a story walk at Reform Congregation Leo Camp Lecture Oheb Sholom/Kesher Zion Synagogue in Wyomissing. More coverage inside Shabbat B’Yachad this issue. Page 2 SHALOM December 2019 Why do you care?

By Richard Nassau programs. Federation is focusing too much Exeter Community Library, Sinking Spring Development Director on or doesn’t do enough for (your choice). Public Library and Jewish Book Council. Why do you care? Federation’s strategic plan was We support the Lakin Holocaust Library Why do you care developed by members of our diverse & Resource Center at Albright College about our Jewish community. Its vision is stated on the ensuring area schools have appropriate community? What is it cover: “All working together for one Jewish educational resources for teaching about that you feel strongly community.” This does not mean we all the Holocaust and genocides. As a member about? Why is it so agree. It does mean, while we may be of the Greater Reading Unity Coalition, important that we diverse, we all care about our future as a we work with NAACP Reading Branch, connect as a Jewish Jewish community. Islamic Center of Reading and the Daniel n t community? Why does I promise you, whatever your passion, Torres Hispanic Center to combat hate and it feel like we keep asking you, even if you we share it with you. The programs, service promote diversity. never have, to consider making a gift to and activities of Federation, along with our Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks Federation’s Community Campaign? community involvement, extends throughout is committed to your passion. We work in e My reasons for asking and my reasons Berks County. We work to ensure your Berks County and throughout the world to for giving may not be yours. interest is represented. I know we can meet enrich lives, connect people and engage It may be because you want to help your charitable goals and ask you to consider with our community. feed families. You may understand the a gift to Federation’s Community Campaign. In return, we ask for your support. importance of teaching the next generation Federation is an integral part of the Berks Whatever you care about, whatever your

m about their heritage. You may want to fight County community. We work closely with reason for giving, please consider making anti-Semitism. You may want to offer and nonprofit agencies, including synagogues, a gift to Jewish Federation’s Community participate with incredible cultural programs. churches and colleges. We are a proud Campaign. You may just want to bring us together. partner agency of United Way of Berks You can make your gift online

p I also know some of the reasons people County. Our partnerships include Helping ReadingJewishCommunity.org or call our hesitate to give. Federation is too far left Harvest through the JFS Food Pantry at office 610.921.0624. or too far right. Federation is providing too Olivet Boys and Girls Club. Literatour Berks Thank you for caring and for being a much or not enough support for overseas programs are offered in partnership with member of our diverse Jewish community. o l Year-end tax planning using your IRA By Richard Nassau your IRA about the process for making a as a qualified charitable distribution. It allows e If you are over the age of 70½, you can qualified charitable distribution. Procedures you to support your favorite charities without lower your taxes by donating all or part vary from firm-to-firm and the end-of-the-year adding to your taxable income. of the IRS required minimum distribution is a busy time for many IRA administrators. Make sure you contact Federation and

v (RMD) from your traditional IRA directly It is recommended you start the process at other charities about the charitable transfer to a qualified charity such as the Jewish least 30 days before year-end. from your IRA. This alerts Federation Federation of Reading/Berks. By making Other issues you should know when and others to your gift, allowing us to a direct charitable distribution, you can you speak with your IRA administrator: properly acknowledge it to comply with e exclude that amount (within limits) from your If the IRA distribution is made payable to IRS guidelines for these type of qualified adjusted gross income. you, even if intended for use as a charitable charitable distributions. The amount you choose to transfer to donation, the IRS does not consider that to For more information, email RichardN@ charity is up to you. The IRS adopted these be a tax-free distribution. Any amount you JFReading.org or call Richard Nassau at D rules to encourage charitable giving. There receive would need to be included in your 610 921 0624. is no minimum required amount that you adjusted gross income. IRS regulations This material is for informational must transfer. You can transfer a portion of do not allow direct charitable distributions purposes only. It is not intended to provide Annual Campaign your RMD to Federation and withdraw the to donor-advised funds, even if it is with a or be relied upon for, tax, legal or accounting Women’s Philanthropy balance for yourself. (Some IRA accounts public charity, or to private foundations. advice. You should always consult your own do have internal minimums.) After 70½ there are many advantages to financial advisor to determine if a qualified Maimonides Society Make sure you ask the administrator of using your IRA required minimum distribution charitable distribution is right for you. Your Jewish Legacy

Chai Circle

L’Chaim Society

Book of Life

Letter of Intent C O M M U N I T Y S H A B B A T J A N U A R Y 3 1 , 2 0 2 0 DONATE NOW TO OUR JEWISH COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN Please visit ReadingJewishCommunity. org www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Make your gift today! December 2019 SHALOM Page 3 From the President’s Desk Taking steps to improve our community’s security

By William D. Franklin violent anti-Semitic acts here. However, facilities’ access control and entrance and safe areas. President more and more of our Jewish students monitoring. • Developing a community crisis A new poll showed are being subjected to anti-Semitic The environment requires that communications plan. that 8 in 10 American remarks. we take additional steps. JFNA’s • Initiating personnel and volunteer Jews recognize that Amanda Hornberger and I have national homeland security initiative, security training. anti-Semitism has spoken to public school principals Secure Community Network (SCN), Further, all of us need to know how spiked in recent years. about bigotry and intolerance in their recommends: to react in a crisis. To that end, we Even more believe schools and are arranging to meet with • Forming a security committee to are looking into engaging Community that anti-Semitism is faculty. Earlier this year, we brought in a regularly meet and review potential Security Service (CSS) to train people in a problem here in the Pennsylvania law enforcement officer, threats. our community to provide professional- United States. Given a security specialist, to work with our • Establishing an Emergency level security in Jewish spaces. We must the dramatic increase of mass shootings synagogues and the Federation to Operation Plan (EOP) for all institutions. be alert and heighten our awareness in the last six months, our community’s upgrade security at each facility. We • Sharing these EOPs with law so that we can protect not only our security must become a high priority. also worked to enhance our relationships enforcement officials and first responders. own institutions but those of our entire Fortunately, we have not experienced with local police, and we improved our • Further reviewing facilities’ access community. Thank you. Spotlight on JDC: Our Federation dollars at work By Michael Fromm When Susan and I visited Siberia this past January, we spent time in the city of Novosibirsk, which is located closer to Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China than it is to another Russian population center. And yet, there are nearly 20,000 Jews in this remote industrial outpost of 1.5 million people. The Trans-Siberian Railway fueled much of the city’s growth in the mid-19th century, but Jews arrived in various waves, from political prisoners who were exiled to labor camps in the Tsarist and Soviet eras to refugees who fled Eastern Europe and the major Russian cities during World War II. After the fall of communism, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) began providing relief services to Jews across the vast geographic and cultural Michael and Susan Fromm visiting Siberia. AJT events, supported with local dollars from supporters of the Jewish Federation of Reading, helps strengthen Jewish connections of young people in communities that need our support expanse of regions that comprise the from across the former Soviet Union former Soviet Union. including Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Georgia, Jewish values and commit to community,” and contemporary interpretations of classic JDC, which is funded by our Moldova, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. participant Ilia Buzunov said before the Jewish texts. Participants heard from AJT Federation contributions, is an integral The theme — the Jewish experience event. Buzunov was one of the bnai teachers and inspiring speakers, including part of the Jewish communal philanthropic in communities around the world — was mitzvah participants from Kiev who works a proudly Jewish para-Olympic champion system that steers critical resources to examined in more than 150 workshops. with Jewish youth at the Halom JCC, one from Ukraine, as well as graduates of communities — often remote — where AJT benefits from an ongoing partnership of JDC’s flagship community centers in JDC’s flagship Metusda young leadership Jews need our support in order to with BBYO, the worldwide pluralistic the former Soviet Union. program, directors of youth clubs, and survive, let alone thrive. In Novosibirsk, teen movement, with participants from “I was a teenager when I first found well-known local educators, to deepen we met with the local chapter of a the U.S., Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, out I was Jewish,” Buzunov said. “From their Jewish knowledge. The conference JDC-sponsored program called Active Austria, Israel and Germany joining the that moment, my life was completely also featured a project fair where teens Jewish Teens (AJT) and participated in conference as well. AJT connects 3,200 changed, and today, six years later, I am presented their grassroots initiatives. a project that involved baking challahs Jewish teens through local chapters in a proud Jew, doing what I love — working AJT is JDC’s flourishing peer youth and delivering them to elderly Jewish 60 cities across the former Soviet Union. to make my community better every day. network. It grew out of a confluence of shut-ins. More than half a world “In much of the rest of the world, a As I continue to learn and grow as a Jew, enthusiastic grassroots efforts to build away, these young Jews — many of b’nai mitzvot marks the entrance of young working towards my bar mitzvah has connectivity between young Jews in the whom only learned they were Jewish people into adulthood and the obligations of been an invaluable experience,” region. Through activities on a local and from their grandparents, since their Jewish community life,” said Michal Frank, The conference included song regional level, AJT is nurturing Jewish parents were prohibited from religious director of JDC’s former Soviet Union sessions, dancing and art workshops, identity, community engagement, and observance during the Soviet era — operation. “But for AJT teens, this sense of Shabbat and Havdalah ceremonies, leadership among Jewish youth to Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks Non-Profit Organization were taking care of their own. Jewish Cultural Center, PO Box 14925 U.S. Postage PAID responsibility and identity are already on the as well as classes on JewishReading, PA 19612-4925mutual strengthen them as theyPermit No.lead 2 the next readingjewishcommunity.org Reading, PA Through the AJT program, teens not fast track. They are the emerging leaders responsibility, volunteerism bestChange practices, Service Requested generation in their local communities. only participate in outreach efforts but of the post-Soviet Jewish space, engaging Enriching Lives Volume 47, No. 9 September 2017 Elul 5777-Tishri 5778 learn about philanthropy with the goal of their friends, parents, grandparents, and being able to support and sustain their wider communities in peer-to-peer Jewish own Jewish communities. learning, volunteerism, and the need for ShaloThe Journal of the Reading Jewish Communitym published by0 the Jewish9 Federation1 of Reading/Berks7 We were inspired to hear their shared responsibility. Their enthusiasm is A newspaper serving the Jewish community of Berks County, passion about living Jewish lives, key to building not just the future of Jewish Your Federation Supports: Pennsylvania, andJewish published Education monthly, September through June, under preserving Jewish culture and helping life in this part of the world, but globally as Food Pantry the Jewish FederationFriendship Circle of Reading/Berks. Funded by the Annual Jewish less fortunate Jews. The report below they build bridges to other Jews the world Chevra Community Campaign.Community Shabbat represents a clear victory for Jewish over.” Reading Jewish Film Series philanthropy and for the commitment The b’nai mitzvah teens spent several PJ Library General Offices:Jewish Family Service 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125 of communities like Reading to the months preparing for the ceremony and Jewish Cultural Center Lakin Holocaust Library Wyomissing, PA 19610 mitzvah of “Tikkun Olam”, repairing were called to the Torah, given Hebrew & Resource Center Phone: Israel & Overseas 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 the world. Our donors should be proud names, and delivered short addresses Web site: Camp Scholarships www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Israel Trips to know that their contributions are on the week’s Torah portion, Lech Jewish Community helping to ignite a resurgence of Jewish Lecha, in which Abraham follows the Jewish Federation Highof School Reading Emergency Support life in the furthest reaches of the world. command to journey to the promise Chair: Lakin Preschool Haia Mazuz Richard J. Yashek Lecture --- land, solidifying his covenant with God. President: Transportation William D. Franklin Maimonides Society More than 400 Jewish teens from Joining them in another first, teens with Communications YourDirector: Jewish Legacy Mark Nemirow, Editor around the world gathered in November 92ND ST Y Programs special needs attended the conference. Proofreaders: Joint Distribution Committee Federation staff for JDC’s 6th annual Active Jewish Teens Modeled after the work of Krembo Meir Panim Annual Campaign (AJT) Conference in Kiev, Ukraine, to Wings, a leading Israeli organization for Jewish Agency for Israel The opinions expressed in ShalomYemin Orde are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks celebrate their growing role in fostering social integration of children and teens School Education Programs Interfaith Unity Council local Jewish identity and community. A bar with special needs, these participants Israel Advocacy and bat mitzvah ceremony for five teens, Youth Events were part of a pilot project to integrate Great Decisions Series a conference first, served as a model of such individuals into AJT. Jewish Community Relations Council commitment to Judaism, leadership and “My hope is that when I stand up Community Holiday Programs Women’s Philanthropy taking action in communities, for Jews of all there in front of my peers for my bar Jewish Federations of North America ages in the region. The gathering, created mitzvah, I serve as an inspiration for Counseling Services and run by AJT teens, drew participants Leo Camp Lecture what is possible when you embrace Shabbat B’Yachad Page 4 SHALOM December 2019 Romantic drama next in Jewish film series By Amanda J. Hornberger place at the time of purchase. Looking for a film that sports fans and After selling out for our last film, “Cojot,” romantics will enjoy? Join us at Fox Berkshire we highly encourage you to purchase tickets on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m for the next for all films in advance so you don’t miss out screening in the Reading Jewish Film Series RREEADINGADING on these special event movies. with the romantic drama “The Keeper.” Based The list of upcoming dates and films are: on the true story of Bert Trautmann, German JJEWIEWISSHH Jan. 8, 7 p.m. — “Carl Laemmle,” an soldier during World War II turned soccer American documentary about the German player for the British team Manchester City, FFILMILM Jewish immigrant who founded Universal “The Keeper” has something for everyone. Pictures and saved 300 Jewish families from This German/UK drama tells the SESERIRIEESS Nazi Germany extraordinary love story between a young 20I5 Feb. 5, 7 p.m. — “The Interpreter” English woman and a German POW, who 2020 (Slovakia’s 2018 Academy Award entry), together overcome prejudice, outrage and a road drama about two unlikely travelling personal tragedy. Against a backdrop of companions resolving past conflicts British post-war protest and prejudice, March 4, 7 p.m. — “93 Queen,” an Trautmann secures the position of goalkeeper of the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks and American documentary about the Hasidic at Manchester City, and in doing so becomes a Fox Theatres. Admission is $8 per film ($6 for women who create the first all-female volunteer soccer icon. His signing outrages thousands of JCC members). All films will be shown at Fox ambulance corps in New York City. fans, many of them Jewish. But Bert receives Berkshire (800 Berkshire Blvd. Wyomissing). May 17, 3 p.m. — “Picture of His Life,” an support from an unexpected direction: Rabbi Tickets can be purchased at the box office American documentary about legendary Israeli Alexander Altmann, who fled the Nazis. or kiosks at the theater or online at www. photographer Amos Nachoum on his quest to The 2020 Reading Jewish Film Series is foxshowtimes.com All seats are reserved photograph a wild polar bear, with an in-person co-sponsored by the Rubin Educational Fund heated recliners, and seat selection takes discussion with the filmmaker, Dani Menkin Wait until 8th and the power of unplugging

By Amanda J. Hornberger Shlain made this decision for her daughter, Tiffany Shlain is the founder of the Webby giving her a simple cellphone that only had Awards, the leading international award text and call functions until her daughter was honoring excellence on the Internet. In her in high school. debut book, “24/6: The Power of Unplugging This is an important topic and one of One Day a Week” Shlain explores the the many interesting discussion points in dangers of too much Internet and social Shlain’s book. The public is invited to join media use, particularly on smart phones us for a conversation with Tiffany Shalin and for youth. on Monday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m at the Exeter According to a 2016 survey by the Center Community Library (4569 Prestwick Drive, for Disease Control (CDC), suicide rates are Exeter Township). on the rise especially for girls between the Following her talk Shlain will sign copies ages of 10 and 14 years old. For this age of her book, which will be available for group, suicide rates have tripled over the purchase through the Literatour Berks Center Jewish Cultural past 15 years. Many leading experts believe official book vendor, Reads & Company of 92nd St. Y Programs this is due, in part, to social media and Phoenixville. You can register by calling smartphones increasing rates of depression 610-406-9431. Tiffany Shlain Game Nights and anxiety. Shlain’s appearance in Literatour Berks One way parents can combat this is to sign is presented by Jewish Federation of Public Library. Thank you to the sponsors Community Shabbat The Wait Until 8th pledge—delaying giving Reading/Berks in partnership with Exeter and patrons of Literatour Berks for making Reading Jewish Film Series children a smartphone until at least 8th grade. Community Library and Sinking Spring this event possible.

Great Decisions

Interfaith Mitzvah Day

Yom Ha’atzmaut

PJ Library

PJ Our Way

Leo Camp Lecture

Tech Tuesday

Yom Hazikaron

Art Exhibits

Yom Hashoah

Annual Meeting and Picnic

Purim Carnival

Richard J. Yashek

Memorial Lecture

Kristallnacht Remembrance

Youth Events

Purim Masquerade Party

Bridge

Chevra

Mahjong

Trips to NYC/Philadelphia

Lakin Holocaust Library

& Resource Center

Shabbat B’yachad

Community Calendar December 2019 SHALOM Page 5 What kind of doctor puts patients on display?

By Richard Nassau The program, part of Federation’s “Compelling on many levels… On Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m., Literatour Berks series, is open to Raffel’s arresting and illuminating work Maimonides Society presents Dawn the community. We encourage you to of hidden history should not be missed.” Raffel, author of “The Strange Case of bring family, friends and colleagues. – Booklist Dr. Couney.” To ensure your place, register at The Maimonides Society of the Chosen by NPR as one of the great ReadingJewishCommunity.org/ Jewish Federation is composed of reads of 2018, it is the real-life story of home/Literatour or call 610-921- Jewish medical professionals continuing how some 7,000 babies were saved by a 0624. the tradition of tikkun olam – healing Coney Island doctor who revolutionized Dawn Raffel’s work has earned the world. Members work to integrate neonatal care more than 100 years praise from The New Yorker, Publishers Jewish values with community medical ago. Dr. Couney is an unsung hero in Weekly, Kirkus Reviews and others. needs to improve the lives of people medical history. Through enlightened “Fascinating, mysterious and here at home, in Israel and around the pediatric care and carnival midways, compelling…written with great style and world. The Society is open to health he rescued tiny infants whom medical the energy of a can’t-put-down thriller.” care professionals and welcomes new Dawn Raffel science ignored. —The Chicago Tribune members. Special Ginsburg exhibit is highlight of Philly bus tour By Amanda J. Hornberger Court bench in 2013 around the “Notorious RBG: The Life and Times Voting Rights Act. Then-NYU law of Ruth Bader Ginsburg,” the first student Shana Knizhnik was inspired museum retrospective of the Supreme to create the Notorious RBG tumblr, Court Justice-turned-pop-culture-icon, referencing rap star Notorious B.I.G. is making its East Coast debut at the (In homage to Notorious B.I.G., the National Museum of American Jewish exhibition section titles are inspired History (NMAJH) this fall. Join us for by his lyrics.) a community bus trip to NMAJH on Based on the New York Times best- Sunday, Dec. 15. selling book of the same name by Knizhnik Tracing a career that traveled from and Irin Carmon, the visually rich and trailblazer to pop-culture icon, the entertaining exhibition explores RBG’s special exhibition explores Ginsbrug’s legacy through archival photographs precedent-setting role on our nation’s and documents, historical artifacts, highest court as well as her varied roles contemporary art, media stations, and as a student, life partner, mother, change- gallery interactives. making lawyer, judge, and women’s The cost is $45 per JCC member, rights pioneer. $55 for non-members and $25 for The second woman — and the first students and includes round-trip bus Jewish woman — to serve on the U.S. transportation, admission to the NMAJH Supreme Court, Justice Ginsburg and a private tour guide for our group. acquired the “Notorious RBG” moniker RSVPs are accepted through Dec. around 8:30 p.m. 610-921-0624 or amandah@jfreading. after a series of fiery, record-breaking 2 to 610-921-0624. The bus will be For more information or questions org. Please note that all museum spaces dissents she gave from the Supreme leaving the JCC at 11 a.m and returning please contact Amanda Hornberger at are wheelchair accessible.

The Barnes & Beck Financial Consulting Group of Wells Fargo Advisors Michael’s Classic Limousine proudly offers first-class chauffeured is proud to support transportation for weddings, proms, parties, conventions, concerts and Literatour Berks shows, airport trips, and special events. Serving Berks, Schuylkill, Lancaster, Lehigh and surrounding counties, we will take you to your destination in style with 24-hour door-to-door convenience. Radene Gordon-Beck, MBA, CIMA®, CPWA™ First Vice President - Investments To make a reservation email [email protected] Fundamental Choice Portfolio Manager or call 610-929-4919 [email protected] 610-378-3070 Michael’s Limousine is located at 41 North Centre Avenue, Leesport. www.BarnesandBeckFinancialConsultingGroup.com

Visit us on Facebook: Investment and Insurance Products:  NOT FDIC Insured  NO Bank Guarantee  MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, facebook.com/MichaelsClassicLimo a registered broker-dealer and non-bank a liate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. 1019-03472 Page 6 SHALOM December 2019 RCOS Food Festival a joyous community event

Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom held its 19th Jewish Food & Cultural Festival, drawing the usual big crowd of people representing a full cross-section of Berks County’s communities. The crowd enjoyed the food, entertainment and opportunity to learn more about Judaism. This year’s festival featured special efforts by the RCOS Social Action Committee to keep the event as green as possible. Singer Equipment supply worked with festival organizers to ensure they could use biodegradable takeout containers this year, and there were dual recycling containers at every station for items that Wyomissing’s recycle hauler took. And a truckload of cardboard was taken to a recycling center after the big event. al News n o

t i Photo courtesy of Reading Eagle a g e

Photos courtesy of Reading Eagle r g C o n

Chabad

Kesher Zion

Reform Congregation

Oheb Sholom

Early arrivers come prepared to take home lots of food. Photo by Mark Nemirow Student cantor Meara Lebovitz

December� Kislev-Tevet LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES

CHABAD CENTER OF BERKS COUNTY (610) 921-0881 Shabbat Candle Lightings Torah Portions Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. December 6 December 7/9 Kislev KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE (610) 374-1763 4:19 p.m. Vayeitzei (Genesis 28:10-32:2)

Weekly services Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.; Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. December 13 December14/16 Kislev 4:20 p.m. Vayishlach (Genesis 32:3-36:43) REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 Friday, Dec. 6: Shabbat service, 6 p.m. December 20 December 21 /2 3 Kislev Fridays, Dec. 13 and 27: Shabbat service, 7:45 p.m. 4:22 p.m. Vayeishev (Genesis 37:1-40:23)

Friday, Dec. 20: Chanukah Shabbat Family Service, 6 p.m. December 27 December 28/30 Kislev Saturday, Dec. 21: Tot Shabbat at the Highlands, 10 a.m. 4:26 p.m. Mikeitz (Genesis 41:1-44:17)

CONGREGATION SHOMREI HABRITH

December 2019 SHALOM Page 7 Library hosting children’s Hanukkah event, petting zoo

Exeter Community Library treat, each child has a chance to win The Exeter Community Library and one of several door prizes for attending. the Jewish Federation of Reading/ “Barnyard Bubbe’s Hanukkah” is Berks are thrilled to host authors Joni a board book in which whimsical farm Page  Shalom March 2010 Klein-Higger and Barbara Sharf for an animals leave presents for Bubbe during afternoon of barnyard fun at the library on Hanukkah. Kirkus Reviews says “This Sunday, Dec. 15. The experience begins board book invites readers to play two Community News at 2 p.m. with the Critter Coral by Sleepy simultaneous guessing games: Which Hollow Farms. This indoor petting zoo will animal has left each food item, and be on site until 3:30 p.m. and includes why are they leaving them at Barnyard Obituaries one friendly goat, one woolly little lamb, Bubbe’s door?” two hand-tamed bunny rabbits, two Joni Klein-Higger is an award- Lucy Suzanne Knoblauch L. (Sulman) Moyer. He is also survived exotic chickens, two quacking ducks and winning Floridian children’s book author, Zeidman, 96, Wyomissing. by his daughters, Aileen D., widow two Indian Fantail Doves. songwriter and musical theater playwright. Surviving are a son, Bruce F., of Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. At 3:30 p.m., the library will offer More information can be found on her husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman, of Roxanne, wife of Les Walker, of Batavia snacks and drinks during craft time website at www.joniworld.com. Barbara Shillington; a brother, Harry Knoblauch, Ohio; sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine before Klein-Higger and Sharf begin Sharf is a children’s book author and husband of Edith Knoblauch, of Reading; K. Moyer, of Sinking Spring and Jay their presentation at 4 p.m. Families with actor who loves writing fun quirky books. a sister, Ruth Balis of Wyomissing; and H., husband of Margaret R. Moyer, of children of all ages and all denominations Originally from Philadelphia, Sharf now several nieces and nephews. Muhlenberg Township. Other survivors are encouraged to join in the fun. Then lives in Florida and “Barnyard Bubbe’s --- are grandchildren: Brett A. Endy, Chad from 4 to 5:30 p.m., Klein-Higger and Hanukkah” is her first book. Irene S. Zeidman, 62, Wyomissing. M. Endy and Elizabeth K. Moyer; and Sharf begin their program, followed by a Copies of “Barnyard Bubbe’s She is survived by her brother Bruce great-grandchildren, Carson N., Logan meet and greet, photo opportunities, and Hanukkah” will be available for sale Images from F., husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman C., Ardyn N. and Ava L. Endy book sales and signings. As a special on site thanks to Reads & Company Bookshop, and Klein-Higger and Sharf This Literatour Berks event program of Shillington. --- will sign books after the event. is presentedYemin in part by Orde the PJ Library --- Shirley Robinson of B’nai B’rith To register for this free event, please of ReadingArea withresident support and recent from college the Sue Robert Berger, 54, Reading. Apartments. Survived by her Friendship --- Obituaries visit www.readingjewishcommunity. B. Vienergraduate Memorial Jessica FlamholzFund of sentJewish us He was the former spouse of Lea Circle friends. Susan L. (Grossman) Davis, org/home/literatour/literatour-event- Federationthese picturesof Reading/Berks, from her recent by visit the Berger, Reading. He is survived by --- Alison Annabelle (Grant) 76, of Mount Penn. Susan was a registration or call the Exeter Community Friends toof Yeminthe Exeter Orde, Community an Israeli village Library, two daughters, Molly R. Berger, State Louis Malamud, 95, formerly Rotenberg, 80, of Wyomissing. Alison member of Kesher Zion Synagogue. Library at 610-406-9431. and by forZeswitz children Music. and youth supported College, and Bethany S. Berger, of Temple. He is survived by a son, was born in England and grew up in She is survived by sons, Darren by our Federation. Reading; and one brother, Dr. Barry M. Mitchel, husband of Laura Malamud, Scotland. She met her husband, Larry, and Jordan Max and daughters Berger, husband of Kathleen A. Vieweg, of Las Vegas; grandchildren Barry in Vancouver, where he was a medical Alyssa and Hilary Max and Jessica Boston, Mass. husband of Johna Malamud, Deborah student and she was a lab technician. Rodriquez. Other survivors include --- Babbit-Malamud and Sheri Malamud; They lived in Japan for two years, her 11 grandchildren. All Around the Town______David Moyer, 85, Reading. and great-grandchildren: Jessy Babbit, courtesy of the Army, and in 1971 they --- By CongratulationsJoan G. Friedman to SoldiersBadal, who Medal has forreceived his heroism. the honor He of He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Carly Malmud and Ian Malamud. settled in Berks County. Alison was Jay Harold Fishkin, 87, of Fleetwood Herbert SchneiderCongratulations for being to Koreyinducted Blanck into alsobeing was chosen awarded as the the Child Bronze Advocate Star for of employed by ReMax as a Realtor for and formerly of Laureldale. Jay was a and to Edith Blanck on the birth of the Year for the State of Pennsylvania. 25 years, and was a member of Temple graduate of Reading High School and the Berks County Military Hall of meritorious service in connection with Fametheir new on Nov. granddaughter 9. Army 1st Lt.and Herbert great- military operations*** against the enemy Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests! Oheb Sholom. She is survived by her was an Air Force Veteran of the Korean granddaughter! Best wishes to our Berks County husband and her three children; David War. He then worked for 27 years at Schneider distinguished himself while from May 1943 through October 1944. serving with the 351st *** Bombardment athletes competing*** in the 2010 Maccabi and his wife, Erica, of Sinking Spring; Penn Iron Works as a steel fitter. Jay is Mazel Tov to the Bluestone Family: Games: Shalom Newspaper (Joan Friedman) Jonathan and his wife, Laura, of Georgia, survived by his children Mark and his wife Group in England during World War We love good news about members II.To DavidIn May and 1943, Marianna Schneider on andtheir three new of ourEmily community! & Jared Baksic Please, swimming share it by and Leah Rotenberg and her husband, Diane of Reading; and Marsha and her daughter and to grandparents Eric and Andrew Blickle, basketball 5” (2 col.) x 7” Corby Drone, of Wyomissing. Other husband, Dennis Dornes, of Muhlenberg other men removed a fused bomb, emailing [email protected] or calling whichMarissa. had fallen out of the bomb theMatthew JCC office Eisenberg at 610-921-0624., swimming Questions? survivors include her five grandchildren Township. Also surviving are his four *** Hannah and Alexis Glassmire, and two step-grandchildren. grandchildren. racks and jammed against the wall of Contact Jodi Gibble, Marketing Director the Congratulationsbomb bay. He wasto Charles awarded andthe swimmingUntil next time: Shalom! Brenda Diamond on the engagement Brandon Missan, soccer READING The Highlands at Wyomissing of their son Brett and to grandfather Al 2801 Papermill Road 2000 Cambridge Ave., Wyomissing, PA 1910 Diamond. Wyomissing, Pennsylvania 10-288-3405 *** Until next time: Shalom! Mazel Tov to Rosalind Hyman and [Email all your simcha news to joan@ GROUP RATES AVAILABLE her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman friedman.net] Call Alice for a Site Tour KEEP UP WITH THE COMMUNITY (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Visit www.readingjewishcommunity.org II hadhad nono idea!idea! ou’ve worked hard to accumulate your wealth. We hear this again and again from residents of The Highlands. YTrust it to someone who will work even harder to • People are so friendly. grow your assets and provide you with peace of mind • There’s so much for me to do. • I love the independence and as you plan for the future. From financial planning and privacy at The Highlands. investment management to custom credit solutions, • I don’t worry about my future. deposit products and more. Clermont Wealth Strategies • Dining is like a fine restaurant. • My kids are so glad I’m here. – personal, focused and highly confidential. • I feel like I’m at a resort. • This was a smart and valuable financial decision. • They do things first class. Financial Planning Comprehensive Investment Management • I wish I’d moved here sooner. Custom Credit Solutions Bank Deposit & Convenience Products • I love it here! Wealth Preservation & Transfer Services Retirement Planning Come tour The Highlands. Find out first hand why it is the best place for CLERMONT WEALTH STRATEGIES retirement living. AT If you’re exploring options and choices for your retirement years, be sure to call us for a tour. You too can be a part of this wonderful lifestyle. We have every- 1.866.332.8393 thing from a studio apartment to gracious cottages. We would love to meet you clermontwealth.com and answer your questions.

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

EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ Page 8 SHALOM December 2019 Affordable Care Act enrollment open until Dec. 15

By Sari Incledon provide information and assistance to Friendship Circle In a recent help consumers understand their options Everyone in our community is welcome conversation with and apply for coverage. Subsidies to attend diverse and stimulating programs a neighbor I was based on income are available through on Thursday afternoons at 1:45. Programs surprised to hear the Marketplace to make coverage are free. Optional lunch ($7) is served that she mistakenly affordable for individuals. People with at 1:00 pm. Reservations for lunch are thought that the very low incomes can also find out at required. e Affordable Care the Marketplace if they are eligible for Participants enjoy camaraderie and Act (also known coverage through Medicaid and CHIP entertainment. as Obamacare) no (coverage for children). Any legal resident Recent programs included “The Artist

c longer exists. of the U.S. who isn’t incarcerated can from Israel, Ronen Koresh and the Koresh The Affordable buy insurance from the Marketplace. To Dance Company” and Mary Ann Owens’ i Care Act has become a political football qualify for financial assistance you must “Life on a Navajo Indian Reservation.” and in 2019, the current administration earn between 100% and 400% of the Upcoming programs not to be missed! eliminated the individual mandate requiring poverty level. If you have access to job- Dec. 5 – Pianist Karl Hausman, former v everyone to have insurance or pay a federal based coverage you might not qualify for Showboat Casino and HersheyPark tax penalty. But the Affordable Care Act still premium tax credits. entertainer, brings his years of musical exists and more than 10 million people have For the first time Americans can now entertainment to the JCC. His repertoire r insurance because of it. The law enacted enroll in Affordable Care Act policies through includes Broadway show tunes, ragtime, in 2019 has three primary goals: to make private websites operated by an insurance rhythm and blues, and Jewish folk songs. affordable health insurance available to company or a web broker. These sites Dec. 12 – Adi Shalev, our Shlicha from

e more people; to expand the Medicaid also sell cheaper plans that are short-term Israel, will tell about life in Iraq from her program; and to support innovative medical health plans. Consumers should be aware grandparents’ perspective. She will share care and delivery methods designed to when considering these plans that they her family’s Iraqi traditions, including lower the costs of health care. exclude coverage of pre-existing conditions preparing traditional Sephardic food. S Anyone seeking health insurance can and typically do not cover essential health Dec. 26 – (please note, this program is purchase it from the Health Insurance benefits such as prescription drugs, mental at 1:30 pm). Bob Cisik, a Klezmer clarinetist Marketplace (also known as exchanges). health care, substance abuse treatment or with extensive classical training, and Gene They are organizations set up to create maternity care. Gelfenson, an accomplished pianist who competitive markets for buying health For more information about getting soloed with the Philadelphia Orchestra, l y insurance. Each state has a health health insurance information for 2020 go bring their gift of music to the JCC for a insurance Marketplace that offer a to the U.S. governments’ official site – Chanukah Concert featuring Klezmer and i choice of different health plans and healthcare.gov before the Dec. 15 deadline. other traditional Jewish music. Adult education with Jewish Family Service m a F h

Phyllis Dessel offers assistance in understanding “The ABCs of Medicare.” ewi s J

Food Pantry

Friendship Circle

Counseling Services

Transportation

Financial Assistance Ben Leisawitz, left, discusses wills and power of attorney. At right, Stanley Fromuth discusses Social Security benefits. Hospital and

Home Visitations

Living with Loss

Information and

Referral

Case Management

Holiday Programs

Betsy Katz making a presentation on “The Voice and vocal Hygiene” to Friendship Circle December 2019 SHALOM Page 9

Bidding farewell to fine colleague JCC and Federation employees gathered Nov. 5 for lunch at B2Bis- tro to celebrate the retirement of office manager Fame Brubaker, seated at center. Fame retired in November after 15 years of excel- lent service to the community. Best wishes to Fame on her retirement!

JCC community programs are made possible through your contributions to Federation’s Community Campaign. Your support helps connect our community. This month were highlighting a few of the JCC programs you make possible. Thank you for being our partner. We are all working together for one Jewish community.

Jewish Cultural Center: Connecting our Community

Community Shabbat Israel Experience Programs & More than 200 people attend each year Scholarships Federation's annual Shabbat service is a collaboration Support in 2019: ongoing and emerging need with our local synagogues. The service brings together We know high school and gap-year programs like all members of a diverse and culturally rich Jewish Masa, Taglit-Birthright Israel and March of the Living community. It is a testament to our community and strengthen a young adult's connection to Israel and Federation's continuing emphasis on being open and Judaism. This engagement among our youth is a key inclusive to all. predictor of future communal leadership. There is an ongoing demand for financial assistance to enable teens and young adults to participate in these Community Memorial Lectures educational programs or enroll in post-secondary education in Israel. Free and open for the entire community Federation, in cooperation with Albright College, Israel Missions & Connections annually presents two memorial lectures. The Leo We supported 2 missions in 2018 Camp Memorial Lecture, generously supported by the In 2018, we supported a family mission and an interfaith Camp Family, features topics of Jewish interest. The mission. We will continue helping people interested in Richard J. Yashek Memorial Lecture, generously visiting Israel. Our goal is to strengthen connections and supported by the Yashek Family, presents issues provide an open positive dialogue about Israel. Future associated with the Holocaust and other genocides. missions are being planned. These two high quality lectures always result in auditoriums filled to capacity each year. Jewish Film Series Holiday Celebrations 65 people is the average attendance per film 7 films are scheduled for 2019 - 2020 Support in 2019: $8,600 Federation collaborates with local synagogues to offer The series, sponsored by Fox Theatres and the Rubin holiday programs for our entire community, like Educational Fund, is an example of the cultural richness Chanukah on Ice and the Purim Carnival. In addition, Federation offers. The featured films include several we support special holiday services for seniors at special collaborative showings between Federation and multiple locations including Passover Seders and High groups outside of the Jewish community. Holiday services. Page 10 SHALOM December 2019 Chanukah celebration helps us conquer the night

By Rabbi David Sislen help of the famous miracle of the oil, we soul of humankind. Chanukah observance to someone who Kesher Zion Synagogue should take the time to remember what So why not embody the spirit of the might be homebound or infirm. As the weather the story is really about. Divine in your Chanukah observance? As Then proudly display your chanukiah gets colder, the days Chanukah is not just about a special you kindle one more candle each night, in your window so that you can share the grow shorter, and the bottle of oil, a military victory, presents, see if you can shine a little more light miracles; both the ones from antiquity, nights longer. We chocolate gelt, or fried food. The Festival into some of the dark places in our world. and the fact that you have the ability to dispel the darkness of of Lights reminds us that G-d is on the Instead of rushing through the continue bringing light and warmth to the winter with the light of side of faith and freedom as opposed to blessings so you can get to the gifts, dark places. the Chanukah candles. oppression. That’s why G-d delivered latkes and sufganiot, take the time to In the Torah, when the Menorah was But it’s easy to let “the strong to the weak, the many to the designate a gift of tzedakah to a particular first lit, the text doesn’t say that it was this beloved holiday few, the impure to the holy, the evil to the cause, and discuss why the charity or “lit.” Instead, it says that the light was lose its significance righteous, and the arrogant to those who institution is able to make a difference for “raised up.” when we are also being surrounded followed the Torah.” others. Just think: if you set aside 1 dollar Each candle you light for Chanukah by the lights and traditions of the other Of all the additional miracles that for each night’s candle, you’ll have $36 should be an opportunity to uplift others wintertime holidays. could have been part of the story, it’s apt by the last night of the holiday: twice chai. as your joy increases. As we commemorate the Maccabees’ that G-d chose to allow light to illumine Or take one or more nights of Chanukah The Talmud tells us that “a candle for victory in 165 BCE, and the fact that they the darkness, both physical and spiritual. to give back to others; volunteer to feed one is a candle for a hundred.” Start with were able to bring kedusha, holiness, Proverbs tells us that “ner Hashem the hungry, invite someone lonely over one and let it grow. If we all do it together, back to the Temple in Jerusalem with the nishmat adam, the candle of G-d is the to your home, or better yet, take your we can conquer the night. Heed the powerful message of Chanukah Lights

By Rabbi Yosef Lipsker society. Needless to say, darkness light of the Torah and Mitzvot in the “outside,” symbolically alluding to the Chabad Center of Berks County is chased away by illumination. Our everyday experience. duty to bring light also to those who are Chanukah, the Sages said, “A little light expels a lot But though it begins at home, it does still in the dark. Festival of Lights, of darkness.” not stop there. Such is the nature of light The message of the Chanukah recalls the victory The Chanukah Lights remind that when one kindles a light for one’s Lights should illuminate the everyday — more than 2,000 us in a most obvious way that own benefit, it benefits also all who are life of everyone personally, and of years ago — of a illumination begins at home, in the vicinity. the society at large, for a brighter life militarily weak but within oneself and one’s family, Indeed, the Chanukah Lights are in every respect, both materially and spiritually strong by increasing and intensifying the expressly meant to illuminate the spiritually. Jewish people over the mighty forces of a ruthless enemy that had overrun the Holy Land and threatened to engulf the land and its 2019 Year-End people in darkness. The miraculous victory — culminating with the rededication of Tax Planning the Sanctuary in Jerusalem and the rekindling of the Menorah which had been desecrated and extinguished Year-end has always been an advantageous time to review certain strategies to reduce overall income by the enemy — has been celebrated tax liability. And now that it has been almost two years since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“2017 tax annually ever since during these act”) was enacted, it’s important to review some traditional tax planning strategies as well as to eight days of Chanukah, especially determine whether some new techniques could help cut your federal and state tax bills. by lighting the Chanukah Menorah, also as a symbol and message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter, of light over DETERMINE YOUR TAX BRACKET ITEMIZE OR STANDARD DEDUCTION? darkness. It is a timely and reassuring One of the first steps to take is to estimate One of the most significant changes in the 2017 message, for the forces of darkness your 2019 tax bracket. The top bracket this tax act was the dramatic increase in the standard are ever present. year is 37 percent for married couples filing deduction. For 2019, married couples filing jointly Moreover, the danger does not jointly with adjusted gross incomes greater can claim a standard deduction of $24,400 come exclusively from outside; it often lurks close to home, in the form than $612,350. Other rates for joint filers ($27,000 if both spouses are over age 65). It is of insidious erosion of time-honored are 35 percent for incomes over 408,200; estimated that because of this increase, coupled values and principles that are at the 32 percent for incomes over $321,450; with the $10,000 limitation to the deduction for foundation of any decent human 24 percent for incomes over $168,400; state and local taxes and the elimination of other 22 percent for incomes over $78,950; deductible items, less than 10 percent of all 12 percent for incomes over $19,400; and taxpayers will be itemizing their deductions for Going away 10 percent for incomes of $19,400 or less. the 2019 tax year. If you expect to be in the same or lower tax If you claimed itemized deductions in the past, bracket in 2020, it may be beneficial to you may now want to consider “bunching” those for the defer taxable income until next year or deductions into one year in order to exceed the reduce this year’s taxable income. standard deduction amount and claim the winter? However, one of the key changes made by standard deduction in other years. Perhaps the the 2017 tax act, the large increase in the easiest itemized deduction to bunch is that for standard deduction discussed below, must charitable contributions. One way to accomplish be factored into any year-end calculations. this is to combine tax-deductible contributions Be sure to alert that would otherwise be given in two or more Action item: shift some of your tax burden years into one. the Federation to a future year. Tried and true strategies for lowering your tax bill include deferring Action Item: Make charitable contributions in office of your receipt of a bonus payment to 2020, the “bunching” year to a new or existing donor accelerating remaining deductions into advised fund (DAF) offered by Jewish Federation address so you this year by prepaying a deductible of Reading/Berks. Claim the charitable deduction expense, maximizing contributions to in the year you make the contributions and can keep up to qualified retirement plans, or making larger spread distributions to charities over several charitable gifts. Put those saved tax dollars in years. date with what’s your pocket rather than the government’s. Another 2017 tax act change that increased the happening in our annual cap on cash contributions to charity from 50 percent of adjusted gross income to 60 community. percent can make “bunching” even more attractive. December 2019 SHALOM Page 11 Answering the big question behind Chanukah

By Rabbi Brian Michelson the victory over Haman on Purim: the metaphysical celebration? Do we that human achievement is only half Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom meanings of the holidays are clear. express gratitude to the mighty the story; God’s involvement cannot Only with Chanukah, in true Jewish fashion, Maccabees and their armies? be diminished or excluded. reference to is open to different interpretations. Alternatively, do we express our Chanukah reminds us that in life the holiday of There is a certain ambiguity about thanks to God? we live in partnership with God. Chanukah does the this festival. The answer to what is Chanukah God and the Jewish people must Talmud ask, “My One can easily view Chanukah and how do we celebrated it is work together to redeem ourselves, Chanukah?” “What as a military celebration. It is a clearly both. In our service, we the Jewish people and the world in is the significance holiday that celebrates the victory recite the words of Al HaNisim, For which we live. Chanukah reminds of Chanukah?” This of the weak over the strong; the few These Miracles, which emphasizes us that we cannot achieve this on question is not over the many. We could see it as the military victory — the human our own nor can we expect God to asked of any other a festival that celebrates the deeds achievements. However, we do it for us. holiday in the cycle of the Jewish of man. light the Chanukah menorah in “My Chanukah?” —What is the year. What is it about Chanukah that We can view the holiday in more memory of the miracle that was significance Chanukah? Chanukah made this question necessary? spiritual terms. The miracle of the performed. It is a holiday in which reminds us that we are members of For the other holidays of the oil. Divine intervention averted we recall and recognize great a partnership and that neither half of Jewish year, the significance is what could have prevented the human achievements.We remember this partnership can succeed alone. obvious. Whether it is the celebration rededication of the ancient Temple. soldiers and civilians who banded Our strivings and our achievements of freedom on Passover, the giving of Thus, “My Chanukah?” — What together to defeat an army that could can be made holy when learn to the Torah on Shavuot, or celebrating is Chanukah? Is it a physical or not be beaten. Yet, we are reminded recognize this. Dream doctors bring healing magic to hurricane victims

Israel21c.com Joining a group of mental health medical team at 29 hospitals across Two therapeutic medical clowns counselors and psychologists Israel. from Israel’s Dream Doctors went sponsored by the International Coalition Hurricane Dorian hit the island to the Bahamas to bring innovative in Trauma and Resilience, Dream nation on Aug. 24. On Sept. post-trauma techniques to children Doctors Smadar Harpak and Shoshi 5, a delegation from Israeli displaced and traumatized by Ofir are training the other professionals humanitarian aid organization Hurricane Dorian. in the skills they use daily as part of the IsraAID arrived to help coordinate

ARE YOU OVER 70 ½?

If you are at least 70 ½ years old and are INVESTMENT ASSETS considering donating to charity, it may be more beneficial to make the donation from 2019 continues to be another good year for the an individual retirement account. Over the stock market and other investment assets. As past ten years, many individuals have year-end approaches, it is an opportune time to utilized the IRA charitable rollover to review your investment portfolio and consider transfer up to $100,000 each year directly timing the recognition of capital gains and losses for assets held long-term - more than one year - relief and recovery efforts. from their IRAs to public charities such as “This is Israel. It’s part of our and short-term. The top income tax rate on long- the Jewish Federation. DNA to be there first to help in a term capital gains remains at 20 percent. (A 3.8 time of crisis,” said Dream Doctors Qualified charitable distributions can count percent tax on net investment income could also Executive Director Tsour Shriqui. against the “required minimum distribution” apply). “The local community in the Bahamas amount but note that transfers to a DAF, is in desperate need of trained supporting organization, or a private Part of your capital asset review could be professionals to work with children who have been traumatized by foundation do not qualify. consideration of a gift of appreciated securities to charities. You can avoid paying any capital gains displacement and loss, and to help them regain a sense of control and An IRA Charitable Rollover is not deductible, tax on the value of securities transferred to the normalcy.” but because it is not included in gross Jewish Federation, and you may be able to receive The five-day mission to the Bahamas income, the net effect may be the same as a charitable contribution deduction for the full fair is supported by the Moose Toys’ Happy it would have been had you made a market value of the securities at the time of the Kids Foundation. charitable contribution. gift. “At Moose Toys we are constantly inspired by and in awe of the Dream As a bonus, you do not have to itemize to Action Item: Consider gifting appreciated stock Doctors’ dedication and commitment to get the tax benefit of your gift, so you can held for more than one year. They are fully helping others in need,” the Australia- based company said in a statement. “In still claim the higher standard deduction deductible up to 30 percent of adjusted gross the wake of the devastating Hurricane under the 2017 tax act. income and any excess can generally be carried Dorian in the Bahamas, we are proud to forward and be deductible for up to an support the Dream Doctors partnering Action Item: Use your IRA Charitable additional five years. with key local organizations in Florida to Rollover to pay your Annual Campaign gift lead the medical clowning training and or pledge, establish a Lion of Judah or Action Item: Donate appreciated stock, to deployment of health practitioners to the Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment establish a DAF or add to an existing DAF at affected region.” or use it to establish a fund at Federation the Federation. It is an excellent way to Israeli shoe company Teva Naot recently donated 600 pairs of sandals to support a charitable cause of your maximize tax savings from such gifts and retain and rain boots to Dorian victims in the passion. the privilege of making grant recommendations Bahamas, who were recently hit by in the future. Hurricane Dorian. Over the past 15 years, Dream Action Item: Sell depreciated stock, recognize Doctors has sent its trained therapeutic the tax loss and then give the proceeds to clowns on humanitarian missions in charity. Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, India, Indonesia, Nepal and the United States. For more information, contact Bill Franklin or Richard Nassau at 610.921.0624. Last year, Dream Doctors brought their unique skills to the community of Jewish Federation professionals will work with you and your professional advisors to help you meet your Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, following the synagogue shooting. Dream Doctors philanthropic goals and maximize the benefits of these and other tax planning strategies for you and the Nimrod Eisenberg and Keren Asor-Kliger Jewish community. recently led a five-day training course in Zurich for 30 Red Cross volunteers This letter is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax or financial advice. who work in refugees shelters around When considering gift planning strategies, you should always consult with your own legal and tax advisors. Switzerland. Page 12 SHALOM December 2019 Yemin Orde mourns congressman’s passing

Friends of Yemin Orde On behalf of Friends of Yemin Orde, the youth and staff at Yemin Orde Youth Village and Village Way Educational Initiatives, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the late U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings. Congressman Cummings was a compassionate and dedicated friend to Israel and understood the importance of quality education in creating opportunities and a hopeful future for youth at risk. In 1998, Congressman Cummings joined with Jewish and African American leaders in Baltimore to create the Elijah Cummings Youth Program, a leadership development program that provides cultural understanding and builds relationships with teens from diverse backgrounds. Teen participants from Baltimore travel to Israel and stay at Yemin Orde Youth Village for one month. Together, the American and Israeli teens tour modern and historic sites Yemin Orde and Elijah Cummings Youth Program teens create lifelong friendships. in Israel, as well as forge close and long- lasting friendships. of Congressman Cummings,” said Karen work to strengthen the partnership between Yemin Orde is supported with local Sallerson, executive director of Friends of Baltimore and Yemin Orde so that our next dollars contributed through the Jewish Yemin Orde. He was a deeply caring leader, generation of leaders — our youth — value Federation of Reading’s Israel Now a man of faith and his work in social justice inclusiveness and tolerance and have hope campaign. and advocacy reflected the important Jewish for a bright future.” The Elijah Cummings Youth Program has values of Tikkun Olam — repairing the world Friends of Yemin Orde extends its partnered with Yemin Orde Youth Village for — and Tikkun Ha’Lev — repairing the heart. deepest condolences to all of the family, 20 years. We are honored to have had Congressman friends, and colleagues of Congressman Overseas “Friends of Yemin Orde and the entire Cummings among our community of Cummings. Yemin Orde family mourns the passing ambassadors, and we will continue his May his memory be a blessing. What you can do to help Israelis living in poverty

American Friends of Meir Panim According to recent statistics, 1.8 million Israelis – including 800,000 children – are currently living below the poverty line. This data was recorded in the annual report published by Bituach Leumi (National Insurance Institute) back in December. The stats are based on information obtained by the Central Bureau of Statistics for 2017, the most recent year for which the data is available. The 2018 report will be released in December however speculators aren’t predicting any dramatic change. And though the overall poverty rate

& I srael increased from 18.5% in 2016, the manna that fell from the sky. Exodus 16:22 fulfill two mitzvot — giving charity to Israel’s percentage of actual families who live in You and the Jewish Federation of needy and enabling a Jew to celebrate the Reading’s support of Meir Panim helps Sabbath. Jewish Agency poverty dropped from 28.8% in 2016 to 28.4% in 2017. The percentage of children for Israel who live in poverty dipped from 31% in 2016 to 29.6% in 2017. But for the elderly, the rate Yemin Orde increased from 20.8% in 2016 to 21.8% in Jewish Federations 2017. Meanwhile poverty for new immigrants (who made aliyah since 1990) climbed from “She put the shells in the batter of North America 17% in 2016 to 18.4% in 2017. Everything combined, this means that and threw the eggs away. Joint Distribution Israel has the highest rate of poverty in the ” Committee Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Difficulty completing familiar tasks can be a symptom Meir Panim No matter how you look at it, these figures of Alzheimer’s or dementia. are disturbing. This begs the question – How If this pattern of behavior has become common, you should encourage your could it be that a nation who is still dusting off the ashes of the Holocaust is seeing over family member to visit their doctor. A diagnosis of dementia can be scary, 20% of its citizens going to bed hungry? but we can help. Although there are many theories, what’s Our memory care neighborhood at Manor at Market Square encourages important to understand is what can be done residents to participate in favorite activities – like baking – and provides a about it right now. And although changing Israel’s economic model might help, it’s dignified life in a safe and secure environment. rather unrealistic to say the least. Meir Panimis an extremely important Call Jill at 610-624-1299 with organization that is doing what it can to help questions or to arrange a tour. Israel’s needy by providing “Restaurant-Style” Soup Kitchens. These are essentially soup kitchens for the hungry but with the look and feel of a diner. They provide nearly half-a-million nutritious meals annually to impoverished Israelis as well as other innovative programs for the needy that Meir Panim offers. Meir Panim is running a campaign called “Challah for Shabbat.” Every Thursday, Meir Panim gives the traditional bread to needy families allowing them to observe the Shabbat with dignity. The tradition of having two rolls of challah at a Shabbat meal is Independent Living, Personal Care & Memory Care with No Buy-In Fees! important as it signifies the double portion of 803 Penn St., Reading, PA 19601 • www.manoratms.com Page  Shalom March 2010

December 2019 Jewish FamilySHALOM Service Page 13 RememberDiscussion whenof addiction … important to all

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Enjoy Tax Benefits While Contributing to BERKS ENCORE RECEIVES AWARDS Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program Congratulations to Berks Encore employees Carolyn Krebs and Martha Sitler for receiving one of the Social Security Administrations highest awards for their providing the public with Call Sari at 610-921-0624, Call Sari at information covering Social Security issues. e-mail [email protected] 610-921-0624or go to Berks Encore enables older adults to achieve a better quality of www.charitableautoresources.com life by providing a comprehensive program of services, referrals, or email education and advocacy. For more information call Berks Encore [email protected] at 610-374-3195 or visit them at www.Berksencorepa.org

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610.898.7700 Page 14 SHALOM December 2019 Lawsuit points to struggle over campus antisemitism

From online news sources – wherever they might live — white UCLA added that it is, “committed to the idea that Israel is the main wrong A recent lawsuit filed by StandWithUs supremacists. academic freedom as well as building party in the Israeli-Arab conflict, but against University of California, Los A Jewish student in the class, an inclusive learning environment also that those who support Israel Angeles, may lead to a deep struggle Shayna Lavi, challenged Abdulhadi’s without discrimination and harassment… in the U.S. are themselves white for the soul of the university and could comments, allegedly leading Abdulhadi Allegations of discrimination or supremacists — essentially evil and have broader impact on how Israel to ridicule her. There are alternate harassment have been conveyed to deserving of condemnation — are a and pro-Israel students are treated on similar reports about what happened the Discrimination Prevention Office.” far cry from Iran. college campuses. between Lavi and Park following the Crucially, the university made sure to add But academics who use their pulpit At the heart of the lawsuit is exploring incident, but each report alleges that that UCLA is known as a top university for to try to make debate about Israel one- whether UCLA, and universities like it, Park was dismissive. Jewish and Israel activity, clearly hoping sided by categorically condemning will clearly define limits for anti-Israel StandWithUs then entered the picture that the broader picture would help put those who disagree with them are statements and actions by academics and started two rounds of attempts out the fire of the particular incident. themselves consciously clouding the against pro-Israel students, or whether to convince UCLA to take serious In its lawsuit filed in early October, lines between being anti-Israel and universities will hold up the free speech action to correct the way Park handled SWU alleged that UCLA’s discrimination anti-Jewish. banner to obscure any red lines. Lavi. Shortly after the incident, the office did not sufficiently deal with the In a statement upon filing its early Part of what makes the lawsuit organization sent a letter that stated that issue. The lawsuit said that on Aug. 16, October lawsuit, SWU did not deny all so interesting is that unlike San Park negatively singled out a student UCLA’s discrimination office informed the good UCLA does for the Jewish Francisco State University, which later, who had filed a claim against her Lavi that its probe led to the conclusion community. It simply said that this was also sued for antisemitism but and Abdulhadi with the university’s anti- that no violations had occurred. good cannot be used as a cop-out which never tried to endear itself to discrimination office. Next, the complaint said that the from confronting antisemitism, which is Jews beyond avoiding legal liability SWU’s letter also recited a long list Office told Lavi that its conclusions thriving under the guise of anti-Israel for discrimination, UCLA cares about of recent and less recent anti-Israel were based on analyzing the narrow criticism and academic freedom. the Jewish community.UCLA’s Hillel or anti-Jewish incidents at UCLA. issues of whether any discrimination The chances of SWU winning a is strong, and there is a large Jewish These ranged from the administration against Lavi had been religion-based resounding legal victory are not high. presence on campus. protecting pro-Palestinian students and on whether Park had engaged in The US’s anti-discrimination laws This is not a simple case of a from consequences for vandalizing retaliatory conduct. At the same time, were not drafted in a way that makes uniformly anti-Israel university having and ruining a Jewish event, to the the office said it would “recommend it easy to “pierce the veil” of one kind an incident that went too far. UCLA student government taking acts training” to Park. of discrimination that could be seen Rather, it is a case where it is to support the Students for Justice in SWU’s early-October lawsuit as protected political speech to get to alleged that a university with a strong Palestine’s platform against Israel. alleged that the university’s limited underlying discrimination, which is not commitment to the Jewish community Furthermore, the letter was not merely actions were insufficient to save it protected. has paradoxically repeatedly allowed a generic complaint to discuss the from liability for discrimination and But simply keeping the issue alive actions against its Jewish students, university’s framing of academic antisemitic harassment, which create may make UCLA and other universities cowering from confronting the anti- freedom. Rather, the letter listed a hostile environment. rethink whether they can continue to Israel elements in its midst due to free specifically applicable legal provisions UCLA’s defense appears to be play the game of trying not to offend speech concerns. that could make UCLA liable for that it probed the incident and found anyone or whether they will need to It started on May 14, when a discrimination and harassment. that there were anti-Israel comments, take a stand against this new form professor of Arab and Muslim Ethnicities Days later, UCLA issued a response but that the comments were not anti- of antisemitism. UCLA and other at San Francisco State University, saying that several students in Park’s Jewish or antisemitic. universities may then find themselves Rabab Abdulhadi, was invited by UCLA class had “raised concerns about the There is an increasing trend in in court for lawsuits alleging that they Professor Kyeyoung Park to guest nature and content of a May 14 lecture some scholarly circles to break down are oppressing academic freedom to lecture to her anthropology class. delivered by a guest speaker that they the wall between anti-Israel and favor Israel. Abdulhadi allegedly used the felt went beyond legitimate criticism antisemitic, which is largely artificial. However, if they know they will get opportunity to rant against Israel of the State of Israel and veered into For years, countries such as Iran sued either way, maybe they can start and its supporters, calling Zionists antisemitism.” have claimed that they can be fair to making a hard-nosed decision about Jews, while seeking to wipe Israel off what they really believe is happening the map. in the classroom instead of worrying Professors such as Park and her about potential fallout from one side B”H guest lecturer, who not only promote or another.

KZ’s 5th Annual

Su n day, December 22, 2019 TRICKY TRAY 2:00-4:00 pm the Home depot Gift baskets | 50/50 Raffle | Gift Certificates 1731 Crossing dr . wyomissing Doors open at noon DEC Drawing starts at 1:00 Kesher Zion Synagogue 555 Warwick Drive SUNDAY 08 Reading, PA 19610 • Build your Questions? Call (610) 374-1763 own menorah • Dreidels, gelt, latkes & dr inks

This free event is brought you by Chabad, Jewish Federation & Home Depot

Limited space. RSVP required. [email protected] or Brenda 610-921-0624 All children must be accompanied by an adult December 2019 SHALOM Page 15 Musical Havdalah glow party Israel helps Kurdish kids at Chabad Hebrew School with urgent health needs

Israel21c.com Jordan and treated at Sheba in Ramat A Kurdish refugee mother tends her Gan, or at Hadassah-Hebrew University toddler after emergency open-heart Medical Center in Jerusalem. Remaining surgery at Sheba Medical Center in costs are covered through Shevet Israel. Achim’s partnerships with other NGOs A Kurdish refugee toddler — we’ll around the world, and the families of the call him Ajwan, for security reasons — is patients contribute whatever they can. among the latest among dozens of Iraqi Mishali said he has treated close and Syrian Kurdish children who’ve had to 100 Kurdish patients so far. The emergency medical treatment at Israel’s youngest was a couple of weeks old Sheba Medical Center in 2019 alone. and the oldest 16 or 17 years old.“They Ajwan, 3, had lifesaving open-heart are coming all the time. They are taken surgery that wasn’t available in Iraqi care of like regular patients; we make no Kurdistan, where his family has been distinction between them and our Israeli living for a few years due to the dangers and the Palestinian patients,” says the community faces in northern Syria. Mishali. “When I go to the [operating] “I was not afraid to come to Israel, theater I rarely think about the origin even though I was warned I could lose of the child or where they come from.” my Syrian passport,” his mother told the Two volunteer translators help Mishali local press. and his team of nurses, physicians and “The [Kurdish] parents we see surgeons communicate in a chain from are really beautiful people. It’s hard Hebrew to Arabic to Kurdish. Mishali and to express how nice and warm they his staff also are in daily contact with the are,” says Dr. David Mishali, head of young patients’ primary-care or referring International Congenital Heart Surgery doctors at home. They communicate in at Sheba’s Safra Children’s Hospital. English via phone, WhatsApp and/or Entry visas for Ajwan and his email. “This is very important because mother, as well as the others, were these doctors know the situation of each expedited by the Israeli Interior patient and can tell me, for example, that Ministry in coordination with Shevet this patient can come in two years for Achim, a Christian Zionist organization the second stage of treatment, but this based in Jerusalem. Shevet Achim patient won’t ever be able to come back helps children from Gaza, Iraq and and needs the full correction at once.” Syria come to Israel for cardiac In making treatment decisions, surgery. “Since 2003, several hundred the Israeli doctors must take into Kurdish children have been brought consideration the level of follow-up over,” says Director Jonathan Miles. medical care available in the home “I go into these places and get to country. “We usually have several know the people, something Israeli treatment options and have to choose citizens cannot do. Israeli hospitals the best considering all the factors,” give significant discounts, even below Mishali. said cost, to help save the lives of these Volunteers from Shevet Achim take children. ” the Kurdish parents to see significant Through word of mouth, he finds sites in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv while CHS (Chabad Hebrew School) held a musical Havdala glow party with a pasta bar and popcorn bar. Kids children in need of Israeli medical care they are in the country. “Our volunteers, got to make their own havdala candles and spices. and coordinates with doctors on both predominantly Christians, want to sides. build bridges between Israel and its The children are flown in through neighbors,” Miles said.

Join Kesher Zion for a   xtraordinar  E BEAUTY y CHANUKAH PARTY!

Chanukah Songs and fun! The Highlands at Wyomissing represents an ideal – and trusted – Dreidles and Gelt! model of inspired, engaging, extraordinary living for seniors. You’ll see and feel it the moment you arrive on our beautiful campus. When Latkes, sufganiyot, and other delicious treats! you walk through our doors, you’ll feel the excitement, camaraderie Bring your own Channukiah and candles  and vitality. Most importantly, you’ll feel a real sense of community. so we can light them as a community!  Visit Our Campus. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 AT 6:00PM (Minyan to follow at 7:30) EXPERIENCE xtraordinary  610.775.2300 • ETheHighlands.org

555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing, PA 19610 610-374-1763 [email protected] 2000 Cambridge Avenue • Wyomissing, PA 19610 Page 16 SHALOM December 2019

Celebrating a work of art Doris Leisawitz, left, with her cousin Rose Kelly and Rose’s daughter Lisa DeCarlo with the Shalom crochet item that was do- nated to the JCC by Doris & Elliot Leisawitz. The item was created by Rose Kelly.

14 Meeting Areas (up to 1333 Guest) • 209 Spacious Guestrooms • 7 Spacious Suites Business Center • Cheers American Bistro & Bar

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON READING 701 Penn St., Reading PA 19601 T (610) 375-8000 • F (610) 375-8001 DoubleTreeReading.com December 2019 SHALOM Page 17 Kristallnacht event brings light to the darkness

Margo Levin and Bill Franklin are among those taking part in the Circle of Light vigil outside Christ Episcopal Church preceding the annual interfaith Kristallnacht service there Nov. 7.

Members of Berks County’s faith community’s synagogues. and Herb Karasin, who served as community gathered Nov. 7 at Christ Rabbi/Chazzan David Sislen of narrators. Many of those in attendance Episcopal Church in downtown Kesher Zion Synagogue served as braved the rain and stood outside the Reading for the annual interfaith cantor for the event, and Rabbi Brian church for the annual Circle of Light Kristallnacht observance. Michelson of Reform Congregation candlelight vigil. Candles also were The event was coordinated Oheb Sholom led the recitation of the lit inside the church during the climax by Christ Church and its partner Kaddish. Other participants from the of the service, when local Holocaust congregation Trinity Lutheran Jewish community included Sislen’s survivors and their descendants lit Church with support from the Jewish daughter Kaleigh and Molly Nemirow memorial candles in tribute to the Federation of Reading and our who joined him for a song; and Chip victims of the Holocaust.

Kaleigh Sislen, Kesher Zion Rabbi/ Chazzan David Sislen and Molly Nemirow sing during the interfaith Kristallnacht service at Christ Episcopal Church in Reading.

EXPLORE THE SIDDUR AT KESHER ZION

Learn the history of our prayers, the structure of our services, experience the beauty of the poetry, and the wisdom of our tradition in a monthly class taught by Rabbi/Hazzan David Sislen.

First semester schedule: December 12 January 9 February 13 March 12 May 14 June 11 The second Thursday night of the month, 6:30-7:30 pm (Minyan will follow the class)

Please register at the Kesher Zion office or contact us for more information: [email protected] or [email protected] 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing, PA 19610 610-374-1763 Page 18 SHALOM December 2019 Sharing an Israeli method of women’s self-defense

Israel21c.com Empowerment Self-Defense and put them Her hair is purple, her belt is fourth- to a test in Israel to see what really works. degree black and her heart is pure gold. We’ve taken knowledge from psychology, Not your typical 20-something fitness social work, education, ESD and the instructor, Yudit Sidikman is a chunky, martial arts and distilled it into a system funky Israeli grandma who exudes caring of how to teach teachers the best way of and confidence. She estimates that teaching people these lifesaving skills.” since 2003, more than 70,000 women, Sidikman said violence occurs on children, seniors and people with special a spectrum. “It can be everything from needs in Israel, Europe, North and irritating to life-threatening,” she says. Central America have learned to defend “Not all violence is ‘scary guy jumping themselves using her tailored version of out at you from the bushes in the park.’ CONTACT OUR the evidence-based Empowerment Self- It can be somebody you know who Defense (ESD) approach. maybe had a little too much to drink Now, Sidikman is reaching beyond and is not respecting your boundaries. OFFICE FOR ALL her nonprofit El HaLev training centers And that can be just as dangerous as across Israel. She is cultivating a new ‘scary guy jumping out of the bushes.’ generation of ESD leaders abroad “The principles we rely on in ESD are through ESD Global. She’s taking part ‘think, yell, run, fight, tell.’ They’re all YOUR PERSONAL in “16 Days of Activism Against Gender- equally important and they’re not linear. Based Violence,” an international Sometimes you just need to know how to campaign that runs from Nov. 25 yell ‘BACK OFF NOW’ or say calmly, ‘If AND BUSINESS (International Day for the Elimination you continue to disregard my boundary, of Violence against Women) to Dec. 10 you are a rapist.’ And you need physical (Human Rights Day). skills — palm heel to the face, knee to TRAVEL NEEDS Sidikman told us that from age 12 to the groin — to back that up.” 18 she was sexually victimized by her El HaLev teaches strategies to guitar teacher, a clergyman. “I never defuse a potential attack. A game called called it ‘rape’ until I was the mother of “Circle of Refusal” helps students get a 12-year-old,” says Sidikman, a New comfortable saying “no.” Sidikman calls Jersey native living in Israel for the past these strategies “tools to navigate the 35 years. “In 1992, when I was a mother world in a safe place.” of four little kids living in the Old City El HaLev started with four people and THE KRARAS FAMILY & WHITE STAR TOURS [of Jerusalem], I got dragged into a judo now has 50 certified instructors teaching 26 E. Lancaster Avenue class by a friend.” That class turned her around Israel, including in LGBT and Reading, PA 19607 life around. “For the first time, I was able Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) communities. (610) 775-5000 (800) 437-2323 to say, ‘I feel strong, I feel in control,’ Sidikman even taught at a women’s [email protected] and it allowed me to reconnect with my prison. www.whitestartours.com body. As a survivor of sexual assault The 2017 rise of the #MeToo and an abusive marriage, I didn’t have movement against sexual harassment ownership of my own body — until I led Sidikman to spread her ESD teacher- started judo.” training methods outside of Israel. “Those Her interest in women’s self-defense of us who had been doing ESD for many WHITE STAR TOURS and martial arts led her to ESD. That, years in several countries said, ‘Duh, we too, she made her own. “El HaLev is a knew this was going on and we know bit like a distillery,” she explains. “We what needs to be done to teach women searched the world for the best practices in they can protect themselves.’ December 2019 SHALOM Page 19 What you’ll see at the Israeli innovation museum in Jaffa

Israel21c.com entrepreneurs who have made their ingredient. Lishtot; and pollution monitoring Former Israeli Prime Minister and mark on Startup Nation. Then it’s off to the future in “The service BreezoMeter. President Shimon Peres wore many The next stop is a replica of Peres’s Capsule.” Strap on an Oculus VR Your guide may even offer you hats over his decades-long career. office from his time as president. It’s headset and you’ll get a taste of where a taste of mass-produced kosher Among them was serving as Israel’s accompanied by a video about his life. Israeli innovation could lead next. It’s grasshopper from HargolFoodTech. leading technology cheerleader. In Stop No. 3, you can explore all a bit kitschy, but for VR newcomers, (Hint: it’s crunchy and definitely This final chapter of Peres’s life the fields of Israeli innovation and it’s an evocative introduction.This doesn’t taste like chicken.) became the inspiration for a new find out which start-ups are hot in room was designed with input from The modernist building’s design museum focusing on Israeli innovation. automotive tech, agritech, medical best-selling author Yuval Noah Harari itself is part of the innovation message. Located within the sprawling 14,000- devices, cybersecurity and more. and futurist Roey Tzezana. Constructed out of layers of concrete, foot Peres Center for Peace and Aerospace and security innovation The final room is the largest: glass and aluminum, it “purposely Innovation in Jaffa, the Innovation display at The Peres Center for Peace a sprawling space highlighting 45 does not draw any cultural references Center takes a fittingly high-tech and Innovation in Jaffa Israeli startups. The exhibit will so that all visitors come on an equal approach to the technology world that An interactive dial highlights change every year. For the launch, footing and nobody feels more at Peres championed. Tours must be specific companies and their companies highlighted include electric home than anyone else,” a explained. booked ahead; a guide will walk you connections according to a wall-sized vehicle charging technology firms The entire experience can be through five exhibit rooms, most of timeline. In the middle of the room Electreon and StoreDot; sensor summed up by the sign appearing as them with interactive elements. are touchscreen games including a startup Vayyar; genealogy leader you enter: “Dream big.” The Innovation The first stop is a hall lined with trivia challenge where your knowledge MyHeritage; radiation protection vest Center has text and audio in English, 18 life-sized video avatars of Israeli of Israeli high-tech is the essential maker Stemrad; medical-testing-in- Hebrew, Arabic and Chinese. It’s a space startup SpacePharma; manure- slightly off-the-beaten-track travel to-renewable energy converter destination that is well worth a visit Homebiogas; water purity checker for anyone aged 10 and up.

Join us next time, December 21st at 10:00 am for an Intergenerational Tot Shabbat* at The Highlands! bbat ha I N V I T E S Y O U T O T H E 2 N D A N N U A L tS A musical, story-filled, interactive hour for o children through grade 2. Bring your family & TDecember Tot Shabbat proudly sponsored by PJ Library and friends to celebrate with Rabbi Michelson Reform Congregation Oheb & stay for a pint-sized oneg of juice, challah, Sholom. No registration fruit, & child-friendly treats! required. Please call the RCOS FUTURE TOT SHABBAT DATES: MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY office with any questions, * 610-375-6034. January 18, February 29, March 14, April 25, May 16, June 13 * Tot Havdalah & PJ Library at RCOS at 5pm YOUTH DAY OF SERVICE MONDAY, JANUARY 20, 2020

SERVICE PROJECTS BENEFITTING BERKS CONNECTIONS/PRETRIAL SERVICES (BCPS) & FAMILY PROMISE OF BERKS

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James G. Barrer, DMD Douglas W. White, DMD Page 20 SHALOM December 2019 Interfaith Story Walk connects communities

Federation’s PJ Library program joined with Kesher Zion Synagogue and Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom in hosting an Interfaith Story Walk Nov. 17. Children from the Christian and Muslim communities joined young members of the Jewish community for a morning of fun activities and interactive learning. Children up to age 10 visited a series of stations based on the book “Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners.” Activities included an ice breaker, service project, art project, snack, reading and music. Group cited as main driver of college antisemitism

From online news sources campus among students as well within Committee, a coalition that allegedly award given out to “recognize students A report released in November curriculums.” Small said he was trying to included several U.S.-designated and student organizations that have made the case that a pro-Palestinian understand why universities in America terrorist organizations, according to positively impacted the NYU community. student group at many colleges, National “have become purveyors of antisemitism. ISGAP’s report. The report said NSJP Did SJP achieve this distinction by Students for Justice in Palestine (NSJP), The discourse was changing so we regularly featured and expressed support staging an annual Israel Apartheid Week “is a main driver of Jew-hatred on were trying to understand why this was for convicted terrorists at its events and or by denouncing the ‘Zionist entity’ campus,” citing dozens of examples apparently happening. We started to look throughout its social media, adding and its supporters as racist, colonialist, of alleged anti-Semitism involving the at funding of American universities by the that the group’s leaders and official imperialist, and illegitimate? Just as the group’s members. Muslim Brotherhood and other political university chapters allegedly have spread existence of the Jewish people was once The Institute for the Study of Global Islamist organizations and actors, so … antisemitism on social media platforms deemed illegal by racists, so now is the Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP) we actually found billions of dollars going and at their national conferences. existence of the Jewish State considered released the report. According to its to the universities that have not been It also pointed out that the student illegal — within the acceptable discourse authors, NSJP has promoted antisemitic reported to the IRS or to the Department group calls for “ending Israel’s occupation on campus and in the classroom,” the rhetoric and has been associated with of Education as the law stipulates.” and colonization of all Arab lands.” ISGAP report said. “Where will this lead? To a “violence and terror ideologically and Small said that report was presented claimed that meant the destruction of the peaceful solution in the Middle East or to politically.” to the Justice Department in July. “There state of Israel. Dozens of examples showing the importation of hatred?” The report, which took about eight was a summit on antisemitism, and NSJP and its members allegedly committed “Leaders of this organization (NSJP) months of research, was written by Dr. we presented our findings, and now “gross violations of IHRA’s definition of anti- are spreading vile, vicious forms of Charles Asher Small, a research scholar this report is focusing on the National Semitism” were cited in the report. One anti-Semitism, and they are intimidating at St. Antony’s College, Oxford, David Students for Justice in Palestine. They example: a social media post apparently students,” Small told Fox News. “They Patterson; a professor at the University have over 200 chapters in Canadian and from a member of New York University’s call for the elimination of the state of of Texas at Dallas; and Dr. Glen Feder, American universities and we believe Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) Israel and any form of Jewish sovereignty an ISGAP research scholar. that they are sort of the shock troops of chapter who wrote, “May Allah not help in the Middle East. And, anybody on Small told Fox News that the institute contemporary anti-Semitism on campus.” them and burn them in the hell fire … Let campus that supports Israel or Israelis started the research project because NSJP was founded in 2010 at a the Jews burn silently.” have become targets of a very aggressive reports were surfacing “showing a forum sponsored in part by the Boycott, The report noted that NYU’s SJP campaign, be it faculty or students. They significant increase of antisemitism on Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) National chapter was selected to receive an try to intimate and silence.” December 2019 SHALOM Page 21 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 UJA-Federation Campaign $10 Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 or bring to the Jewish Federation Jewish Community Campaign Cultural Center, 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125, Wyomissing. You may set up Jewish Family ServiceService $10 a “savings account” for the purpose of sending cards. Please contact the Leo Camp LectureLecture FundFund $10 Jewish Federation at 610-921-0624 for further information. JFS FoodFood BankBank $25 JFS TaxiTaxi TransportationTransportation ProgramProgram $20 ContributionsContributions asas ofof April Nov. 16 18 Holocaust Library & Resource CenterCenter $18 Doris Levin Fund $10 JFSUJA-Federation Food Pantry Campaign In honor of: PJ Library Fund In memory of: Harry & Rose Sack Fund SarahHarriet Simon’s Baskin’s engagement brother – Rosalye– Vic and Yashek Dena Hammel Michael Clymin (Ellen Abramson’s father) – Susan and Richard D’Angelo Alma and Ed Lakin’s new home – Vic and Dena Hammel, Mildred & Ivan Frank MehringerEvelyn – Edith Thompson Mendelsohn Fund Gordon EdwinSam Goodman’s& Alma Lakin engagement Holocaust – Alma Library and Ed Lakin & Resource Center In memoryAlyse Corbin’s of: marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin Doris Levin Fund SueAlison Viener’s Rotenberg Birthday – Sid– Yvonne and Esther & Rob Bratt Oppenheimer JewishIn memory Family of: Service FederationBirth of Selma Community Cutler’s great-grandson Campaign Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John In honorDr. Walter of: Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike MoyerIn memory of: RobinsonFran Mendelsohn’s birthday – Louise Zeidman BirthAlison of RotenbergCarol and Gordon – Anzie Perlmutter’s and Edward newGolden grandson – Debbie Goodman and PhyllisShoshana Dessel’s Tannenbaum volunteerism – Carole –and Elliott Mike and Robinson Doris Leisawitz John Moyer Sue B. Viener Memorial Fund (PJ Library) InHolocaust memory of: Library and Resource Center InGet memory well: of: In memoryAlison Rotenberg of: – Barbara Nazimov, Al and Betsy Katz, Louise Zeidman HaroldAlison LeiferRotenberg – Rob – and George Yvonne Viener Oppenheimer RobertShoshana Seltzer Tannenbaum – Henry and– Ken Helene and SingerMary Holt, George and Sue Viener, Sue Schlanger,Lawrence Gordon Mitnick and – CarolHenry Perlmutter, and Helene Leah Singer Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John Evelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund Deegan, Naum and Lyudmila Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and In memory of: Marvin Segal, Vic and Dena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & Shoshana Tannenbaum – Beth and Bob Caster Ivan Gordon, Carrie & Stephen Latman, Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey Schneider, Norman & Rita Wilikofsky, Audrey Williams, Alan and Esther Strauss, Jewish Family Service Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, In honor of: John Castrege and family, Michael Geraci, Maxine & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Sue and George Viener, Laura Higgins Betsy and Al Katz Bat Mitzvah of Fran Mendelsohn’s granddaughter – Rosalye Yashek Friendship Circle In memory of: Get well: Shoshana Tannenbaum – Jill and Gladys Skaist Harold Leifer – Glenn and Gaye Corbin Holocaust education spreading in Berks County

Continued from Page 5 also that the students are genuinely On a wider note, there have justice and Holocaust remembrance today. silence is not the reason why survivors interested in hearing their stories. I know been many recent developments in I am heartened to hear that three additional are invited in. Instead, that factor is my students were genuinely interested in Holocaust education in Berks County schools in Berks County will be offering present because of the immense respect hearing Hilde’s story and many still talk and the surrounding areas. Within these courses for their students. students have for these individuals and about it now, several weeks later. the past month I have met with two Though the fourth quarter of the individuals who are in the process school year has begun, there are still of developing a Holocaust course to many additional opportunities that Pediatric and Adult Patients be offered at their local high school. remain. I just spoke to an undergraduate  One gentleman was from Lancaster ethics class at Penn State Berks Treating Ear, Nose, Throat Problems County. The other, Gerry Evans, is a regarding the ethical/moral implications teacher at Hamburg High School. I of the Holocaust. I found the students Thyroid Nodules, Neck Masses & Sinusitis have been in contact with two other to be receptive and inquisitive and local teachers, Pete Ruckelshaus at have been asked to deliver a similar  Twin Valley and Jim Konecke at Wilson program in the classes that the same Physicians: High School. Pete has resurrected a professor also teachesPlease at dropReading off Area James P. Restrepo, M.D., FACS, ECNU course on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community College.shoes to RCOS  Valley, and its first offering is during As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, Charles K. Lutz, M.D., FACS the current fourth quarter. He is very daughter of the late local Holocaust Deadline for Jeffrey S. Driben, M.D., FACS, ECNU excited about offering this course to survivor Richard Yashek, is speaking at Scott J. Cronin, M.D. his students and has even lined up Twin Valley, Hamburgdonations: and Fleetwood.  several guest speakers including Rabbi Right now AlbrightJanuary College 2, 2020is hosting Adam P. Vasconcellos, M.D. Brian Michelson, Kim Yashek and Hilde an exhibit titled, “Stories Among Us: Gernsheimer. Washington State Connections to the Nurse Practitioner: Jim Konecke is teaching at Wilson Holocaust, Lessons in Genocide.” The Central Junior High but will be moving up exhibit includes the stories of five Holocaust Rosemarie Montgomery to Wilson High School at the beginning survivors and one liberator and has MS, CRNP, FNP-C of next schoolReform year. Congregation He will be offering Oheb a Sholomreceived good reviews.RCOS Sisterhood It is definitely course on Nazi Germany.555 Warwick His students Drive worth a visit! It will beis collectingat Albright’s Gingrich will be studying Wyomissing,this period of PAGerman 19610 Library through Mayshoes 10. as a history in depth, including a study of the *** rise of anti-Semitism, the initial period of Jennifer Goss teachesfundraiser social for studies the Holocaust and the Final Solution. The in the Fleetwoodthe School Student District and latter part of the course will look at post-war specializes in HolocaustCantor education. program.

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