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Enriching Lives Volume 51, No. 4 April 2021 Nissan - Iyar 5781

ShaloThe Journal of the Reading Jewish Communitym published by0 the Jewish4 Federation2 of Reading/Berks1

Your Federation Supports: Female resistance is subject Jewish Education Food Pantry of Yom Hashoah keynote Friendship Circle By Amanda J. Hornberger is an unforgettable true tale of war, the fight Chevra A major myth of the Holocaust is that for freedom, exceptional bravery, female Community Shabbat the Jews did not put up any resistance friendship and survival in the face of staggering to the Nazis. In “The Light of Days: odds. The book has been optioned by Steven Reading Jewish Film Series The Untold Story of Women Resistance Spielberg for a major motion picture. Fighters in Hitler’s Ghettos,” author Judy If you have a family member who PJ Library Batalion brings to light the extraordinary perished during the Holocaust and would Jewish Family Service accomplishments of brave Jewish women like their name read aloud during our who became resistance fighters — a group event, please email Amanda Hornberger Jewish Cultural Center of unknown heroes whose exploits have at [email protected] with the name, Lakin Holocaust Library never been chronicled until now. age and any other known details by April 5. The community is invited to gather together Learn more about this unknown Holocaust & Resource Center on Erev Yom Hashoah on Wednesday, April history when Batalion joins us for a discussion 7, at 7 p.m. to commemorate Yom Hashoah on Wednesday, April 7 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Israel & Overseas with Batalion. We will be joined by members Judy Batalion is the author of “White Camp Scholarships of the Bender JCC of Greater Washington for Walls: A Memoir About Motherhood, the keynote and candle lighting. Immediately Daughterhood and The Mess in Between.” Israel Trips following the keynote you are invited to stay She has written for The New York Times, for a reading of names of victims of the Vogue, The Washington Post and many Jewish Community Holocaust. other publications. Prior to her writing High School Witnesses to the brutal murder of their career, she was an academic and is fluent families and neighbors and the violent Judy Batalion in Yiddish and Hebrew. Emergency Support destruction of their communities, a cadre You can register by visiting our website: of Jewish women in Poland — some still German soldiers; bribed them with wine, https://readingjewishcommunity.org/home/ Lakin Preschool in their teens — helped transform Jewish whiskey, and home cooking; used their Aryan literatour Signed copies of the book will Richard J. Yashek Lecture youth groups into resistance cells to fight looks to seduce them; and shot and killed be available for purchase through the the Nazis. With courage, guile, and nerves them. They bombed German train lines and Literatour Berks official book vendor, Reads Transportation of steel, these “ghetto girls” paid off Gestapo blew up a town’s water supply. They also & Company of Phoenixville. guards, hid revolvers in loaves of bread and nursed the sick and taught children. Thank you to the sponsors and patrons Maimonides Society jars of marmalade and helped build systems Powerful and inspiring, featuring 20 black- of Literatour Berks for making this event Your Jewish Legacy of underground bunkers. They flirted with and-white photographs, “The Light of Days” possible.

92ND ST Y Programs

Joint Distribution Committee Meir Panim Vaccine clinic a huge success Annual Campaign

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Leo Camp Lecture

Shabbat B’Yachad

Pharmacist Tracy Rossi delivers a COVID-19 vaccination during a community clinic held at the JCC on March 7. She was one of the driving forces behind the event, which vaccinated 320 people. See Page 3 and Pages 10 and 11 for more on the event. Page 2 SHALOM April 2021 How each of us can make a difference

By Bill Franklin at home. You reassure extended family with JFS and Helping Harvest to feed more You can help make a difference. members who cannot be with their loved than 250 families each month at our two One way is to support the work of our ones here in Berks County. You ensure our Food Pantries. Federation supplements these Jewish Family Service. Carole, Sari, and community members receive services they groceries with donated items like children’s many volunteers work to give hope to both need. As our senior population ages, you books and school supplies. Our pantries are our Jewish and non-Jewish communities. enable JFS to offer ways they can remain “staffed” by 20 to 40 different volunteers, and Jewish Community engaged with the Jewish community. new volunteers are always welcome. Jewish Family Service (JFS) serves The Federation’s JFS, with your caring As Jews, we know we have an obligation families and individuals struggling with support, helps families and individuals with to care for one another. Ensure the safety physical or emotional issues of health, aging, basic everyday needs. We place a priority and health of those around you and the n t relationships or finances. You help people on food, health, and shelter by helping to needs of our Jewish community. If you can, live as independently as possible, ensuring close gaps in utility bills, monthly rent, and please help by giving to the Community our Jewish neighbors and friends do not medical expenses. Campaign today. become isolated. You help caregivers with Each of us can make a difference.

e Outside of our Jewish Community aging spouses or parents with adult children You supply the groceries in partnership Together we make change.

All-Star Passover Concert scheduled for April 1 m By Amanda J. Hornberger Musical Passover Seder on Thursday, Joanie Leeds and Rick Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks April 1 at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. Recht! and PJ Library in Reading are incredibly The concert features Jewish kids You can register by

p excited to invite you to a very special music superstars Ellen Allard, Shira visiting our website: https:// musical Passover Seder celebration! Kline, Nefesh Mountain, Elana Jagoda, readingjewishcommunity. Join us for the JKids Radio All-Star Eliana Light, Rabbi Josh Warshawsky, org/ o l e Tot Shabbat & PJ Library Present v

e Ladino Sing Along

Join Sarah Aroeste for some Buen Shabat! Learn about

D “Magic Jewish Spanish” (also known as Ladino) as Sarah reads from her PJ Library book, "Buen Shabat, Annual Campaign Shabbat Shalom", and gets hands clapping and feet Women’s Philanthropy dancing with some Sephardic song and fun! Maimonides Society

Your Jewish Legacy Chai Circle Saturday, April 17, 2021 L’Chaim Society

Book of Life Zoom Meeting

Letter of Intent Time: 10:00 AM

RSVP: Email RCOS office or Amanda for the link: DONATE NOW [email protected] TO OUR or JEWISH [email protected] COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN Please visit ReadingJewishCommunity. org Make your gift today!

PJ Library in Reading is generously sponsored by the Sue B. Viener Memorial Fund of Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks April 2021 SHALOM Page 3 From the President’s Desk Vaccination event brings sage Jewish wisdom to life

By William D. Franklin Jewish Federation, working with Reform Hispanic, Islamic, African-American, On Thursday, March 5, we received President Congregation Oheb Sholom, Kesher Zion and interfaith communities. As a result, them. We sprang into action. Our JFR Our great sage, and Chabad, developed a list of Jewish 160 members of their communities staff, Tracy Rossi, her pharmacy team Rabbi Hillel, is known community members in the 1A category received the other half of the 320 and 14 volunteers spent hours calling, for many wise sayings. for vaccination. Carole Robinson, Sari vaccinations administered by Tracy filling out required paperwork and One of his most Incledon and Brenda Seidel checked and her associates. We have received managing the logistics three days later, famous is: our community calendar directory and many thank-you notes and several on Sunday, March 7. “If I am not for the JFS client list to make the list as contributions from these very grateful We were able to follow Hillel’s myself, who will be for comprehensive as possible. Over 580 recipients. dictum, and because we were prepared me? If I am only for community members were contacted And last, “If not now, when?” We to perform the mitzvah “now”. The myself, who am I? If by e-mail or phone. We did not receive were told in early February that most clinic’s success was the result of the not now, when? “ replies from 216, and we learned 206 likely we would have 300 or more intense focus, preparation, and hard This is a prescription for ethical Jewish community members had received vaccines available but did not know work of many people. We are looking behavior, not only in its content but in its the vaccine. This left us with 160 Jewish when or exactly how many. We chose forward to working again with Tracy sequence. community members to vaccinate. Our to hold a clinic on a Sunday, put our and Eric Easterbrook and our other First, “If I am not for myself, who will be first concern was caring for our community. lists in order, ordered necessary community institutions to hold several for me? “In February, Tracy Rossi, working But “If I am only for myself, who equipment, and established and more vaccination clinics. And now that with Eric Esterbrook of West Reading am I?” With our extra vaccines we practiced procedures to efficiently we know what we are doing, we will be Drug Store and the Esterbrook Pharmacy, had the opportunity to share our good handle 300 people properly receiving ready to do it again. offered to provide and administer more fortune and perform a mitzvah. We vaccinations. On March 2, we were I am so proud of our volunteers and than 300 Covid-19 vaccinations. Our reached out to our partners in the advised that the vaccines had shipped. staff who made it a success. Thank you! Between Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut

By Adi Shalev entertainment, colleges, stores, and most make such a sharp switch from sadness to hear the story of Guy Boyland Z”L, We experience 48 hours of yoyoing workplaces close early, so people have to joy? How do bereaved families, such who died during Operation Tzuk Eitan between sadness and pride, between time to attend a ceremony in the evening. as mine, manage to celebrate? Should (Operation Protective Edge), and we will difficulty and joy, between sad songs The unique atmosphere starts then and a weekday be between the two special bake his favorite dessert —chocolate and happy fireworks. Yom Hazikaron, continues throughout Yom Hazikaron. days to allow for recovery? cake. Memorial Day in Israel, is a special The air feels heavy, the radio plays only Many people say that this balance • Thursday, Yom Ha’atzmaut, day. Even if we do not know any of Yom Hazikaron-oriented songs, and between sadness and joy is what it is all April 15 between 4:30 and 7 p.m.: Yom the IDF’s fallen soldiers, and it seems on the TV there are only shows related about. There is an inseparable connection Ha’atzmaut drive-thru celebration with a that everyone knows someone, we all to Yom Hazikaron and to the soldiers’ between the sacrifice of the soldiers’ lives kosher Israeli food truck, Yom Hazikaron experience it with great force. stories. Every school holds a ceremony. and our lives in an independent state. This &Yom Ha’atzmaut exhibition, gift bag Erev Yom Hazikaron begins with Everyone stops what he or she is doing, connection symbolizes the complexity (pre-registration required) and Israeli a memory siren lasting one minute at even if driving, and stands while the siren of life itself, which naturally and often music! 8 p.m. and continues with memorial is on, to respect and remember. instantaneously moves between sadness • Sunday, April 18 at 1 p.m.: ceremonies in every city and TV programs After everyone is back from Yom and joy. “And in their deaths they ordered special Israeli baking class with the Israeli in memory of the fallen, one after the HaZikaron ceremonies, Yom Ha’atzmaut us to live,” as Haim Nachman Bialik said. Pastry chef Lior Mashiach, where we will other. Communal “singing evenings” celebrations start in the evening with the We honor, remember, and cherish them learn how to bake Kubaneh, a traditional with Yom Hazikaron songs take place Torch Lighting Ceremony broadcast from while doing our best to make our small Yemenite Jewish pull-apart yeast bread. everywhere. Sometimes it is hard to see Jerusalem This marks the closure of the Yom country a wonderful place to live. • Wednesday, April 21 at 7 p.m.: because of the tears, and sometimes you Hazikaron commemorations and the opening I do have some issues with the sharp special Israeli baking class with the cannot even sing along. of Independence Day celebrations. The transition from Yom Hazikaron to Yom Israeli chef Shay Golan (who won the My uncle Rafi, Zikhrono Livrakha, was ceremony is held at the burial site of Theodor Ha’atzmaut. I see how difficult and painful tv show “Bake-off Israel”), where we will an IDF officer. He died 33 years ago in a Herzl. The ceremony is designed to give it is to make that transition. On the other learn how to make Krembo, a chocolate- tragic car accident while on duty. Every the day a dignified but festive atmosphere. hand, I understand the unbreakable coated marshmallow treat that is popular year, on Yom Hazikaron, my uncle’s Twelve torches, symbolizing the Twelve connection between these two important in Israel (I LOVE Krembo and don’t know boarding school holds a ceremony in Tribes of Israel, are lit by people who are seen days, that in a lot of ways symbolize my anyone who doesn’t). memory of the fallen soldiers who attended to have made an outstanding contribution to country. • Sunday, April 25 at 1 p.m.: we the school. This is the place where we go society. This is the ceremony’s main highlight. I invite you all to attend our community will learn about the Good Neighbor to hear the siren and attend the ceremony. There are also music performances, dances, Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut Directorate, how it affects the relationship On the day of Yom Hazikaron, most parades and fireworks. programs: with the Syrian civilians today and other people, including my family, go to a In addition to the official ceremony, • Tuesday, Erev Yom Hazikaron, current projects of the IDF. military cemetery. A two-minute siren at people get together in private parties or in April 13 at 7 pm: we will have a ceremony See Pages 8 and 9 for more 11 a.m. opens the memorial ceremonies parks and watch performances and more in honor of the fallen IDF soldiers and information. at each military cemetery. Tens of fireworks organized by each city. The next victims of terror. I invite you to join me to remember, thousands of people and masses of day, the 5th of Iyar, friends and families get • Wednesday, Yom Hazikaron, honor and celebrate, because this is Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks Non-Profit Organization Jewish Cultural Center, PO Box 14925 U.S. Postage PAID soldiers honor the memories of the fallen together, usually for BBQ, the world Bible April 14 at 7 p.m.: we will haveReading, aPA 19612-4925 “Taste what we do. Permit No. 2 readingjewishcommunity.org Reading, PA by placing memorial wreaths, saying quiz is broadcast on TV, the streets are of Memory” program where weChange Service will Requested get Hope to see you then. kaddish, and remembering them with decorated in blue and white, and everyone Enriching Lives Volume 47, No. 9 September 2017 Elul 5777-Tishri 5778 stories. Next to each grave, there will just spends the day together, enjoying each always be two soldiers to remember and other and our country. respect the fallen in case this soldier In just a few moments from Yom ShaloThe Journal of the Reading Jewish Communitym published by0 the Jewish9 Federation1 of Reading/Berks7 does not have anyone to come. Imagine Hazikaron to Yom Ha’atzmaut we switch thousands of people in each cemetery. from sadness to joy. Every year, there are Your Federation Supports: A newspaper servingJewish Education the Jewish community of Berks County, On Erev Yom Hazikaron, all places of many questions. Is it humanly possible to Food Pantry Pennsylvania, andFriendship published Circle monthly, September through June, under Chevra

the Jewish FederationCommunity Shabbat of Reading/Berks. Funded by the Annual Jewish

Reading Jewish Film Series

Community Campaign.PJ Library

Jewish Family Service

Jewish Cultural Center It’s Simcha Supplement time General Offices: Lakin Holocaust Library 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125 & Resource Center Israel & Overseas Wyomissing, PA 19610 Camp Scholarships If you had or are having a bar/bat mitzvah Phone: Israel Trips 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 Web site: Jewish Community www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org High School or graduation (high school or higher) in Emergency Support Jewish Federation Lakinof Preschool Reading Richard J. Yashek Lecture your family this Jewish year, share the good Chair: Transportation Robert M. Caster, CPA Maimonides Society President: Your Jewish Legacy William D. Franklin news with the community. Please submit a 92ND ST Y Programs CommunicationsJoint Distribution Director: Committee Mark Nemirow, Editor few sentences about the person and their Meir Panim Proofreaders: Annual Campaign Federation staff

Jewish Agency for Israel accomplishment, along with a photo. The opinions expressed in ShalomYemin Orde are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks School Education Programs

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Jewish Community [email protected] or to the Federation office. Relations Council Community Holiday Programs

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DEADLINE IS APRIL 30. Counseling Services

Leo Camp Lecture

Shabbat B’Yachad Page 4 SHALOM April 2021 Lunch and laugh at April Literatour Berks event

By Amanda J. Hornberger She owns the only restaurant in Chelm. He’s the wisest man in the village of fools.

Together, they make an unlikely and lovable

pair. They’ve known each other forever. Finally they manage to connect.

This is not your grandfather’s village of Chelm. Yes, the people are often foolish, but

their hearts are in the right places. Chelm is

a vibrant community with vivid and colorful two dozen books and audio books for all

characters and problems thatMonday, are September relevant 9, 2019 at 7 generations.p.m. JCC and Exeter He Community tours Lithebrary world as a performer, Literatour Berks Preview Night today. transmitting the joy of story across boundaries. Come learn more about the 18 authors visiting Berks this year! Come and laugh and hear the joyful stories You can register by visiting our website: ______of Chelm with author Mark Binder on Thursday, https://readingjewishcommunity.org/home/ Monday, October 7, 2019 at 7 p.m. Exeter Community Library April 22, at noon on Zoom. We invite you to E.R.literatour Ramzipoor Signed copies of the book will be The Ventriloquists bring your lunch and join us for this funny and available for purchase through the Literatour Presented in partnership with the LGBT Center of Greater Reading.

lighthearted program! Berks official book vendor, Reads & Company Binder writes and tells stories for readers of Phoenixville. Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at 7 p.m. Location Provided Upon Registration and listen­ers of all ages. A finalist for the Angela HimselThank you to the sponsors and patrons A River be a Tree National Jewish Book Award for Family of Literatour Berks for making this event A program of Women’s Philanthropy of Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks. Mark Binder Literature, he is the author of more than possible. ______

Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. Wachovia Theatre, Albright College Thomas Wolf Mossad rescue Themission Nightingale’s Sonata: featured in book program The Musical Odyssey of Lea Luboshutz 40th Annual Leo Camp Memorial Lecture

By Amanda J. HornbergerProgram includes Curtis Institute musicians performing César Franck’s “Sonata for Violin and Piano”. joining Mossad, he was an officer in the In the early 1980s, on a remote part Israeli paratroopers, and he fought in four Presented in partnership with the Camp family and Albright College. of the Sudanese______coast, a new luxury ______of Israel’s wars. He is a founder of the

resort opened for business.Monday, Catering December to 2, 2019 at 7 p.m. Exeter Community Library Nachshon School for Social Leadership and Tiffany Shlain divers, it attracted guests from24/6: around The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week is mapping emerging Jewish communities

the world. Little did the guests know around the world for the Ministry of the

that the staff members were undercover Diaspora.

spies working for Mossad — the Israeli Raffi Berg is the Middle East editor of Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at 7 p.m. Location Provided Upon Registration secret service. Dawn Raffel the BBC News website and has extensive Written by longtime BBC Middle EastThe Strange Case of Dr. Couney: experience reporting on Israel and the wider How a Mysterious European Showman Saved Thousands of American Babies correspondent Raffi Berg, “Red Sea Spies: region. His article, scratching the surface of A program of Maimonides Society of Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks. The True Story of Mossad’s Fake Diving Raffi Berg and Dani Limor this story, was the most-read original feature Resort,” tells the true story that inspired discussion on Sunday, April 11 at 10 a.m. on in the history of the site, with more than 5.5 the recent Netflix drama “TheSunday, Red December Sea 15, 2019Zoom. at 4 p.m. Exeter Community Library million readers to date. Joni Klein-Higger and Barbara Sharf Diving Resort.” What began with oneBarnyard Bubbe’sBerg Hanukkah will be joined by Dani Limor, a You can register by visiting our website: cryptic message pleadingPresented for help by PJ Library turned of Reading memberwith support from ofthe SueMossad B. Viener Memorial who Fund was of active in https://readingjewishcommunity.org/home/ Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks. into the secret evacuation of thousands of this mission. Limor served 25 years in the literatour. ______Ethiopian Jews and the spiriting of them Mossad, with activities including leading the Signed copies of the book will be available to Israel. For More Informationsecret - 610-921-0624operation that evacuated Ethiopian for purchase through the Literatour Berks Center Jewish Cultural Learn more about thisTo amazing Register - ReadingJewishCo Israeli Jewsmmunity.org/home/literatour from Sudan to Israel at the command official book vendor, Reads & Company of 92nd St. Y Programs story when Berg joins Literatour Berks for a of Prime Minister Menachem Begin. Before Phoenixville.

Game Nights Community Shabbat Intergenerational story time for PJ Library kids Reading Jewish Film Series By Amanda J. Hornberger this intergenerational including “The Enchanted Snow Globe In “Sadie’s Shabbat Stories,” Sadie loves story time sponsored Collection: Return to Coney Island” and Great Decisions listening to Nana’s tales, especially about by PJ Library. “Sadie’s Shabbat Stories.” She has worked as Interfaith Mitzvah Day the traveling candlesticks, Kiddush cup, and Grandkids invite a lawyer, freelance writer and early childhood challah cover they use every Friday night. your Bubbe and Zayde educator. Yom Ha’atzmaut Will Sadie ever be able to tell her own special to join you! You can register by visiting our website: Shab­bat stories, just like Nana? Based on Author Melissa https://readingjewishcommunity.org/home/ PJ Library true stories, this picture book celebrates family Stoller will be joining Melissa Stoller literatour Signed copies of the book will be PJ Our Way history and connections. us for this fun story available for purchase through the Literatour Grandparents are encouraged to invite out- time on Sunday, April 25, at 4 p.m. on Zoom. Berks official book vendor, Reads & Company Leo Camp Lecture of-town grandchildren to join them on Zoom for Stoller is the author of children’s books of Phoenixville.

Tech Tuesday Yom Hazikaron Child of Holocaust survivors to discuss memoir Art Exhibits The following was published at Rather than ignore the repressed horrors her journey to the jewishbookcouncil.org. This book will be relatives experienced, Foer chose to become genealogical — indeed Yom Hashoah featured in an April 5 Literatour Berks event. “the keeper of memory,” the collector of “shards geographic — core Annual Meeting and Picnic By Donald Weber of memory,” the historian investigating family of family trauma to “For much of my adult life I have been trauma. “Finding these links,” she writes, “is uncover mysteries Purim Carnival haunted by the presence of absence,” my calling.” buried in the mass confesses Esther Safran Foer at the end of “How do you remember someone who graves of an old-world Richard J. Yashek her deeply moving memoir, “I Want You to has left no trace?” Foer asks at the beginning shtetl. The memoir Memorial Lecture Know We’re Still Here.” Foer was born in a of her narrative. How exactly did he survive? concludes with a displaced-persons camp in Lodz, Poland, in What happened to his family — his first family, new-world birth — a Kristallnacht Remembrance 1946 to parents who had managed to evade which he had before he met Foer’s mother grandson who carries­ death — through sheer luck in the case of after the war? Foer family history Youth Events her mother, Ethel (“My mother spent the war Finding the answers involves both luck and in his name and on the run,” Foer recounts), and through endless detective work; she travels to Brazil, soul — symbolizing the Purim Masquerade Party Esther Safran Foer the brave actions of righteous gentiles, who Argentina, Israel, and Ukraine in order to seek promise of the next Bridge helped her father, Louis, escape invading out Holocaust survivors who might fill in gaps generation. In uncovering the past, Foer Nazis after they massacred most of the Jews in memory. The emotional core of I Want You demonstrates how memory can, therapeutically, Chevra living in his Ukrainian shtetl, Trochenbrod (an to Know We’re Still Here recounts Foer and fill an aching absence. Mahjong incident detailed by Foer’s son, Jonathan her journalist son Franklin’s pilgrimage to the *** Safran Foer, in his 2002 novel “Everything former shtetls of Kolki and Trochenbrod. Moth­ Hear about this lost family history when Trips to NYC/Philadelphia Is Illuminated”). er and son imagine the once vibrant life of her Esther Safron Foer joins Literatour Berks on Growing­ up in Washington, D.C., Esther parents’ and grandparents’ world in Eastern Monday, April 5, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Lakin Holocaust Library Safran Foer felt the disabling weight of her Europe, before the Shoah. The result is a You can register by visiting https:// & Resource Center parents’ silence about the war. Above all, she poignant narrative of return and rededication, readingjewishcommunity.org/home/literatour was haunted by her father’s suicide, which a physical and spiritual teshuvah to the site of Signed copies of the book will be available Shabbat B’yachad happened in 1954, when she was a young girl. family origins. for purchase through the Literatour Berks “His death became part of the family canon I Want You to Know We’re Still Here is official book vendor, Reads & Company of Community Calendar of unspeakable stories” she tells the reader. a beautifully written account of a relentless Phoenixville. April 2021 SHALOM Page 5 Community spirit on display at big events

Community traditions remained very much alive in late February and early March thanks to a strong community effort. A drive-in Purim celebration was held at Chabad with involvement from the entire community. Our March Community Shabbat was reimagined with materials and meals for Friday night available to be picked up in advance and enjoyed at home. A Havdalah service was held outside at 555 Warwick Drive, followed by a special online concert by Nefesh Mountain. Page 6 SHALOM April 2021 Lishmor Al HaOlam: Guarding the planet Let’s talk trash!

By Solange Israel-Mintz and Andi Franklin Whenever Bill Franklin takes out the trash, Andi always has to tell him, “That’s not recyclable …That is recyclable … You didn’t rinse the food out well enough!” Since he clearly did not understand the ins and outs, pardon the pun, of recycling, we thought we would do some research to educate him. But we were the ones who got educated. The first step was to talk to someone at Berks County Solid Waste Management. We were told that there are 73 municipalities in Berks County serviced by 25 haulers for their curbside pickups. Each of the haulers uses multiple pickup drivers and recycling plants. To make life more complicated, each of the plants has its own specific rules on what is and is not acceptable for recycling. The next step was to call J.P. Mascaro & Sons, one of the major haulers in our area. The first person said, ”We recycle everything!” Follow-up specific questions resulted in him saying that they recycled dirty pizza boxes, plastic grocery bags and even foam packaging. Knowing that this wasn’t right, we called back to speak to Pagea different  person. She replied “No” to all of the Shalom March 2010 above and more, then reiterated that it depends on the individual pickup driver and the recycling plant to which he or she takes the recyclables. It is also up to Community News the driver to decide whether to take it to a recycling plant or to landfill. Still hoping to get some clarity on the issue, we Obituaries contacted Wyomissing Borough Hall. The woman there laughed and said that they have guidelines, but Lucy Suzanne Knoblauch L. (Sulman) Moyer. He is also survived they often change.For example, they recently decided Zeidman, 96, Wyomissing. by his daughters, Aileen D., widow to accept flexible, plastic snack bags. But this is Surviving are a son, Bruce F., of Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. experimental, and residents must first receive a letter husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman, of Roxanne, wife of Les Walker, of Batavia of notification. However, borough recycling pickup is Shillington; a brother, Harry Knoblauch, Ohio; sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine only for single-family homes and buildings with four or • Clean and dry plastic containershusband of with Edith recycle Knoblauch, may of andReading; may notK. recycle. Moyer, Theof Sinking tremendous Spring number and Jay of less families. numbers 1 and 2 are recyclable. Thea sister, other Ruth numbers Balis of… Wyomissing; variables hasand createdH., husband confusion of Margaretamong conscientious R. Moyer, of Despite the lack of specific direction from our not always. several nieces and nephews.recyclers and resultsMuhlenberg in mistakes Township. that contaminate Other survivors the municipalities and haulers, there are some generally • Dirty food containers such as pizza boxes, jars--- recycling stream.are In grandchildren:a perfect world, Brett recycling A. Endy, would Chad acceptable standards: with peanut butter or bottles with oilIrene are generally S. Zeidman not, 62,be Wyomissing. standardized M. and Endy simple, and Elizabethbut we are K. clearlyMoyer; notand • Clean and dry, unplasticized cardboard and accepted She is survived by her brotherthere yet. Bruce great-grandchildren, Carson N., Logan paper products such as newspapers, stationery and Images• Disposable from diapers, Styrofoam,F., husband flip offlops Geraldine and L.Here Zeidman is another C., Ardynaction N.we and can Ava take L. Endyto contribute shipping cartons are recyclable. plastic grocery bags are usually notof Shillington. accepted. to “Tikkun Olam” when considering--- the environment. • Clean and dry glass containers are recyclable, Yemin• If in doubt,Orde throw it in the trash because an item --- Suggest, support andShirley lobby for Robinson simplified, of standardized B’nai B’rith but crystal, Pyrex, mirrors, and light bulbs are generallyArea that resident is not and accepted recent college by your specificRobert recycling Berger plant , 54,will Reading.and regulated recycleApartments. legislation. Survived by her Friendship not. graduatecause Jessica the entire Flamholz bin sentto be us redirected He to landfill.was the former spouse of Lea Circle friends.*** • Clean and dry aluminum containers arethese picturesThe bestfrom adviceher recent is tovisit speak withBerger, your Reading. local hauler He is survivedIn our next by column we will discuss ---socially responsible recyclable. to Yeminand Orde, specific an Israeli pickup village driver to two learn daughters, exactly Molly what R. you investingBerger, State which benefits Louis our Malamudenvironment, 95, and formerly us. for children and youth supported College, and Bethany S. Berger, of Temple. He is survived by a son, by our Federation. Reading; and one brother, Dr. Barry M. Mitchel, husband of Laura Malamud, Berger, husband of Kathleen A. Vieweg, of Las Vegas; grandchildren Barry ObituariesBoston, Mass. husband,husband Niall of Johna O’Donnell; Malamud, and Deborah son --- DanielBabbit-Malamud and his wife, and Chrissy. Sheri Malamud; Other All Around the Town______Eve David M. Pardo Moyer, 67,, 85, of Reading. Reading. Eve survivorsand great-grandchildren: include her two grandchildren Jessy Babbit, By Joan G. Friedman Badal, who has received the honor of He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Carly Malmud and Ian Malamud. A hearty Mazel Tov to Esther and Sid pursued art at William Smith College and a sister, Debbie. Congratulations to Korey Blanck being chosen as the Child Advocate of Bratt, who will be celebrating their 70th and spent a year abroad in Italy. She --- and to Edith Blanck on the birth of the Year for the State of Pennsylvania. wedding anniversary on April 7. studied fashion design at the Fashion Edith Mendelsohn, 103, a longtime their new granddaughter and great- *** InstitutePlan of for Technology your Bar/Bat in New York Mitzvahresident of the& ManorWedding at Market Guests!Square, granddaughter! Best wishes to our Berks County We love good news about and worked at Wamsutta as a textile who previously lived in Wyomissing and *** athletes competing in the 2010 Maccabi members of our community! Please designer and colorist.. Pennside, died on March 17. Mazel Tov to the Bluestone Family: Games: share it by emailing Marknem@aol. She was very involvedShalom at Reform EdithNewspaper was born in Philadelphia, (Joan Friedman) To David and Marianna on their new Emily & Jared Baksic, swimming com or calling 610-921-0624. Congregation Oheb Sholom, serving married Reading native Milt Mendelsohn 5” (2 col.) x 7” daughter and to grandparents Eric and Andrew Blickle, basketball several decades as a teacher in the in 1939 and moved to Reading. Marissa.Until next time: Shalom! Matthew Eisenberg, swimming religious school, a member of the choir Edith worked in the investment Questions? *** Hannah and Alexis Glassmire, and Sisterhood. Eve also worked as a departmentContact of American Jodi Gibble, Bank and Marketing was Director Congratulations to Charles and swimming learning support paraprofessional in the a regular at the Reading Symphony Brenda Diamond on the engagement Brandon Missan, soccer WyomissingREADING School District for 19 years. and the JCC BridgeThe group.Highlands She at Wyomissing of their son Brett and to grandfather Al She loved2801 Papermill nature, Road cooking, world 2000was Cambridgea longtime member Ave., of Wyomissing, Reform PA 1910 Diamond. travel Wyomissing,and studying Pennsylvania genealogy. Eve Congregation Oheb Sholom. Sadly she 10-288-3405 *** Until next time: Shalom! used her artistic talents to create was predeceased by her husband, Milt, Mazel Tov to Rosalind Hyman and [Email all your simcha news to joan@ beautifulGROUP ketubot RATES (marriage AVAILABLE certificates) and children Susan and Jimmy. She is her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman friedman.net] for family and friends. survived by three grandchildren, one EveCall isAlice survived for a bySite her Tour husband, great grandchild, and a large extended KEEP UP WITH THE COMMUNITY Michael; her daughter Sarah and her family. (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Visit www.readingjewishcommunity.org Trust the pest experts Help us help you With over 80 years of experience, we’ve seen and solved just about every pest problem imaginable. Please provide the Federation office with • Termite Control • General Pest Control II hadhad nono idea!idea! ou’ve worked hard to accumulate your wealth. We hearyour this up-to-date again and againcontact from information residents of The so Highlands. we • Bird & Bat Control • Mosquito & Tick Control Y• BedTrust Bug Control it to someone •who Weed will Control work even harder to can reach you during emergencies• People and are so special friendly. • Ant & Spider Control • Year Round Protection grow your assets and provide you with peace of mind circumstances. We will not publish• There’s soor much share for me to do. • I love the independence and asCall you Ehrlich plan atfor (855) the 226-0075future. From or visit financial jcehrlich.com planning and unlisted numbersprivacy 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.

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EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ April 2021 SHALOM Page 7 The difference between horror and inconvenience By Rabbi Brian Michelson that was 450 square feet. (New York City Swastikas flapped in the wind and goose- can afford to eat steak and end the day Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom has regulations that prevent apartments stepping Nazis marched daily past their with a happy hour. Even in bad weather, As we prepare from being built smaller than 400 square concealed residence at Westermarkt 20. we can walk outside and breathe fresh to commemorate feet.) They did this for just over 25 They remained in hiding until betrayed air. We pass our chatty neighbors and Yom HaShoah April months. There was one bathroom for and deported to Auschwitz in a cattle cherish the warming, noonday sun, 7-8, I want to share eight people. She shared her room car. Upon arrival, Anne was disinfected, Netflix, and the internet. Podcasts some thoughts about with an older, male stranger. Food and shaven, and tattooed. Soon after she entertain us. We Zoom across the globe Anne Frank. During assorted necessities were brought in by died of dysentery with her sister in visiting loved ones. We can enjoy drive- the pandemic I have four trusted people who risked their lives Bergen-Belsen. Her family was lost by honks in celebration of birthdays, reflected on her and supplying the Jews in hiding. except for her father, who survived. graduations, and anniversaries. We do her family’s experience During the day the Franks and their I will not argue that we are living in not hear the marching of boots outside as a way of giving roommates wore socks and remained challenging times. However, they pale our doors. perspective to our current situation. I quiet so as not to alert those in the factory in comparison to what others had to As we commemorate the millions use the Franks as an example because below of their presence. At night they put endure to survive savagery beyond our who perished, who suffered unspeakable their story is well-known. However, the up black-out curtains so a passerby would imaginations. We are lucky there are no torment, let us learn from our current same could be said to many others who not see light coming from a factory after lineups for the bathrooms in our homes. situation the hardships of those who lived hid during the Shoah. hours. In the evening they listened to an Some of us have empty bedrooms and and died during the Shoah. May we truly Anne, her family, and four others old, crackling radio for music and news. space that goes unused. We have ample understand the difference between horror lived in a secret annex over a factory In the street below banners with food that we can even have delivered. We and inconvenience.

Purim gifts greatly appreciated Jewish Family Service appreciates Reform PASSOVER 2021/5781

Congregation Oheb Sholom’s donation of mishloach manot. Thanks to you, JFS delivered Saturday, April 3 gift bags of hamantaschen to residential Virtual KZ Passover Shabbat Services at 9:30 a.m. facilities and appreciative seniors throughout

the community. Sunday, April 4 Virtual KZ Passover Services 9:30 a.m. with Yizkor

    KZ Passover Services will be virtual, to participate click the Zoom link below: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85631162395? pwd=ZEZRZzQ2T1VOc2RtY0NxMTNXRjBSQT09 Meeting ID: 856 3116 2395 Passcode: 094357 

Kesher Zion Synagogue 555 Warwick Drive Wyomissing, PA 19610 www.kesherzion.org  Office: (610) 374Ͳ1763 Fax: (610) 927Ͳ6248 Page 8 SHALOM April 2021 YOM HAZIKARON & YOM HA’ATZMAUT PROGRAMS April 2021 SHALOM Page 9 YOM HAZIKARON & YOM HA’ATZMAUT PROGRAMS

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James G. Barrer, DMD Douglas W. White, DMD Page 10 SHALOM April 2021 e c i

A big crowd lines up outside the JCC for our March 7 COVID-19 vaccine clinic. v

r JFS, Federation mark COVID anniversary by hosting a vaccine clinic e By Carole Robinson It’s hard to believe that it has S been a full year since the world came to a halt and turned our lives upside down. The COVID-19 l y pandemic swept into Berks County i in March 2020, and on the anniversary of its arrival, I took a moment to pause and reflect on this tumultuous past year. What I’m particularly proud of is how the

m Jewish Federation rose to the challenge to help those who needed it the most. This past year, I have highlighted several new initiatives that Jewish Family Service a created and today, I wanted to share our latest program — a vaccine clinic. JFS recognized that we had a problem

F on our hands. Since the vaccine became available in January, JFS has been fielding desperate calls from community members anxious for the vaccine. Over 3.5 million h Pennsylvanians qualify to receive the vaccine in Phase 1A, but the rollout has been slow as the vaccine distribution has been limited and very chaotic. To compound the issue, older people who are not tech savvy or do not have access to the internet have been experiencing difficulties getting the vaccine, as available time slots quickly Michael Farrara gets his COVID-19 vaccine. fill up with those who are computer literate. Looking at the staggering data of how COVID-19 is affecting the elderly population — 98% of Pennsylvania deaths from COVID-19 (23,615 as of March) were of people 50 and older — the Jewish

ewi s Federation knew we had to help. Federation board member and pharmacist Tracy Rossi was unwavering in her determination to provide a vaccine clinic for the Jewish J elderly community, enlisting her employer, Esterbrook Pharmacy and the West Food Pantry Reading Drug Store, to provide the vaccine. The Jewish Federation quickly leaped Friendship Circle into action, forming a Vaccination Committee, headed by Jeff and Sheila Bornstein and Tracy Counseling Services Rossi. We had a month of organizational Transportation meetings, determining logistics, formulating lists of community members and praying the Financial Assistance vaccine would arrive as promised. Volunteers Jeff Bornstein assists Mike Pardo at the check-in desk. were enlisted to place phone calls to those Hospital and seniors without email, often calling repeatedly Home Visitations until they were able to speak directly to the appreciate the dedication of our clinic volunteers: .or phone. Unfortunately, some of our contact person. After contacting as many of our Sheila and Jeff Bornstein, Ann Marie Ferguson, information is out of date. Please make sure Living with Loss seniors as we could, we offered vaccines to Andi Franklin, Jennifer Koosed, Paul Missan, that we have your correct phone number and the Hispanic, Islamic, African American and Jim Rothstein, Nancy Russo, Pam Russo and email so that we can contact you quickly. If Information and interfaith communities, along with our fellow Sharon Scullin. Thank you to phone callers you have an unlisted number, we promise not Referral tenants at 1100 Berkshire Blvd. Sheila Bornstein, Sue Farrara, Haia Mazuz, be publish or share it; it will only be used for Our COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic was and Andi Wallach for their perseverance and to emergencies or special circumstances, such Case Management held on Sunday, March 7, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 photographer Michael Farrara. I would also like as a COVID vaccine clinic. p.m. We were able to provide vaccines for 320 to thank Brenda Seidel for her invaluable help As Duke Ellington said, “A problem is a Holiday Programs people, including seven shut-ins. This amazing making our clinic a success. chance for you to do your best.” I am proud event would not have been possible without We apologize if we inadvertently failed to be part of JFS and the Jewish Federation, our hard-working volunteers. Thank you to to contact you. This clinic reinforced the working with our team of volunteers to do pharmacists Tracy Rossi and Tom Mancuso, Dr. Federation’s need to have up-to-date contact our best to meet the needs of the Jewish Nicholas Rossi, Dr. Linda Bloom and Dr. Karen information. We did not have time to send out a community, as well as the larger Berks Wang for administering the vaccine. We also mailing and needed to contact people by email community during this pandemic. April 2021 SHALOM Page 11 Community expresses thanks for vaccine opportunity

Dear Mr. Franklin: Dear Mr. Franklin: Dear William, real tribute to your community outreach I was one of the people who received We wanted to thank you for offering Through your prompt and thoughtful and no doubt you scooped up many a COVID vaccine last Sunday at the COVID vaccines today. It was very kind of action. I am much relieved having gotten who would have had little luck getting Jewish Federation. i can’t tell you how you to open the vaccinations to workers the first dose of Moderna vaccine by the vaccine. relieved I was to get a phone call telling at 1100 Berkshire. Some feel that a huge the Esterbrook team at the JCC this I’ll be pleased to make a donation to me to come in and get the vaccine. weight has been lifted off our shoulders, afternoon. continue your good work. The friendliness and efficiency of your and we were on every list imaginable in It could not have been a better run Very grateful, volunteers were outstanding. the county. operation replete with entertaining Tim Flowers I have included a check for the Please accept the enclosed as a comments of applicants stumbling Federation in appreciation of your act token of our appreciation for your Cultural over the vaccine application question: Dear Carole and JCC staff: of kindness and help for the community Center. Thank you again to you and your “Are you pregnant?!” That would be a THANK YOU so much for all the in combatting this horrendous disease. staff. miracle was one response that made time and effort you put in to arrange Sincerely, Sincerely, me laugh. the COVID vaccine clinic for our Sheila Konczewski Alan and Susan Ehrlich My partner in line was a delightful community. octogenarian leaning on his cane, THANK YOU even more (and to yet stoic, and visibly relieved to be Tracy) for giving hope and solutions getting his vaccine today after, like to our homebound population. I me, turned away from countless don’t know if or how I would have other sites. been able to get my mom vaccinated It was such a diverse crowd brought without you! together under JCC’s roof today — a Andi

Dr. Linda Bloom and Dr. Karen Wang.

Kol HaKavod (Bravo) to RCOS Last shot of the day. Congratulations to Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, which was recognized by the Berks County Commissioners for hosting a community COVID-19 testing event.

A sign in the waiting room expresses our thanks for the businesses that made our successful JCC vaccination clinic possible. Page 12 SHALOM April 2021 Museum to showcase women who helped build Israel

Israel21c.org Zvi, who taught Jerusalem women how known women, from architects to lawyers to on women in history and women in the How many “she-roes” of Israel can you to grow vegetables, milk cows and make choreographers, says founder Yael Nitzan. arts,” Nitzan explains. Women like Hannah name? Maybe you would start with Golda cheese so their husbands could go out A curator, art historian and TV producer, Maisel, who emigrated to Palestine Meir, Israel’s first and only female prime and build the state. Yael Nitzan has overcome many roadblocks in 1909 and founded the region’s first minister. Or the tragic and courageous These and many other women and setbacks in realizing her dream of agricultural training institute for women. spy Sarah Aaronsohn and paratrooper who played — and continue to play — opening Israel’s first museum dedicated And women like Rachel Roos Hertz Hannah Senesh. The list would include important roles in the history and culture to women. “It was a struggle,” she admits. (Harel), a Dutch Resistance fighter who physician Vera Weizmann, the first First of Israel will be immortalized this year “Now with corona, the world has everyone moved to Israel in 1950 and became Lady of Israel, who helped establish when the Israeli Women Museum opens sitting and listening, and in three months I active in the Women’s International Chaim Sheba Medical Center, now the in Haifa. accomplished what I could not accomplish Zionist Organization (WIZO). largest hospital in the Middle East; and The museum will showcase at least in the past six or seven years.” Artists to be included run the gamut second First Lady Rachel Yanait Ben- 100 noteworthy but not necessarily well- Nitzan gained help of the Haifa from Ziona (Siona) Tagger, one of the Foundation in raising funds for the most important female Israeli artists of project, and she was given the rights to the early 20th century, to contemporary a former private school building in which painter Haya Graetz Ran. the collections will be housed. “Women in Israel contributed greatly “There are currently about 45 women’s to the establishment of the state, museums in the world, the most famous contributed to the construction of the of which are the Women’s Rights Park in infrastructure of settlement, education, Seneca Falls, N.Y., and the Women’s Art defense, law, government, society, Museum in Washington,” she said. “The culture, cinema and theater,” Nitzan says. fundamental challenge in establishing a “But although they left their mark, they museum is not only in raising resources, did not receive proper recognition and but in creating a diverse and significant respect in building society. ” human and ideological infrastructure. The Nitzan invites anyone to contribute stories Israeli Women Museum must be a magnet or items relating to Israeli Jewish, Arab Druze, of significance to the whole, or at least to or Christian women, and even artists, poets large sections of, the population in Israel.” and leaders from the Holocaust era who did This will be Israel’s first museum not get to Israel. She can be reached through dedicated to the females responsible for the museum’s Facebook page or by email. weaving together its social, agricultural, Donations for the project are being funneled and business fabric. “Our museum will be through the Haifa Foundation.

A chance to meet the ‘Fauda’ team

Our community took part in a Zoom meeting featuring cast members from the hit Israeli TV show “Fauda,” which can be viewed on Netflix. April 2021 SHALOM Page 13 Page  Shalom March 2010 Poetry cornerJewish Family Service DiscussionHeads of addiction or Tails important to all Looking out no sun, the telephone’s By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. will not be limited to issues dealing with Others) provided the following statistics. For every person who has a theWe invitesky is the gray entire ringadolescents. will be Drugrung and alcohol abuse is According to Dr. Jay Holder, Medical substance abuse problem, several community to attend a a problem for all age groups, and we all Director and founder of the Exodus others are affected. Those affected programan effort Jewish to Family keep andneed talking to know Imore will about be with it. Treatment Center in Miami, chemical may be spouses, parents, children, Service is sponsoring: In a recent article, “Overcoming dependency is the number one secret siblings, grandparents – all are hurt “Whatsad Everythoughts Family at bay oneDenial” who (Na’amat might Woman be, as Winter I am 2009/10) in the Jewish community. Reportedly, in different ways. What can we as a Needs to Know about Barbara Trainin Blank wrote: “Alcohol and up to 50 percent of patient populations communal organization do to address Alcoholand so and to text Drug or phone drear,chemical and dependency I will offer don’t discriminate, in some residential treatment centers the problem? Awareness is an important Abuse & Addiction: An affecting Jews and non-Jews alike, and are Jews – as are 20 percent of those first step and we invite everyone in the Interactivea friend Dialogue(I say to myself) awomen bit of cheeras much — as men. Addiction calling national drug hot lines (yet Jews community to share questions and with David Rotenberg.” and alcoholism can be found in every comprise less than 3 percent of the U.S. concerns at our above mentioned Thisis programmuch the will better be held way Wednesday, to andsocioeconomic if not (I say) and religious segment of population). Chemical dependency is the program on April 28. April 28 at 7 p.m. at the JCC. the Jewish community”. third leading killer in the U.S. It is also an Our program is free, though beginDavid theis the tasks executive director of it willAn bearticle glad on the JACS Web unreported and/or unknown contributor reservations are requested. For more Adolescent Youth Services at Caron site (Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically to deaths caused by car accidents, heart information, call Sari at 610-921- Foundation,the ones howeverthat must his be presentation done theDependent other way Persons and Significant attacks, suicides and strokes. 0624.

BERKSdespite the ENCORE fact that PROVIDESthey are FREE TAX PREPARATION Volunteer Opportunities Available – not fun — CongratulationsFROM TRAINED VOLUNTEERS Jewish Family Service seeks volunteers to help our seniors A winning coin with grocery shopping and other errands. (I murmurWas your to myself)household income itless could than be $50,000 said in 2009? If you have some time, call Sari or Carole at 610-921-0624. Household income may be higher in some cases, you’ve won — the Devil’s but call 610-374-3195whether for more it lands details. on Jewish Family Service thanks Call today to schedule an appointment from now until April 15. plan has been outdone and tails or heads. Dr. Jeffrey Blank D.D.S. though theBerks sky mayEncore, show 40 N. Ninth St.,— 610-374-3195 Nancy Knoblauch for providing professional services to our client.

Enjoy Tax Benefits While Contributing to BERKS ENCORE RECEIVES AWARDS Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program Congratulations to BerksApril Encore Nissan employees Iyar Carolyn Krebs and Martha Sitler for receiving✡ one of the Social Security Administrations highest awards for their providing the public with Call SariCall at Sari610-921-0624, at Shabbatinformation Candle Lightingscovering Social Security issues.Torah Portions  e-mail [email protected]  610-921-0624or go to ApriBerksl 2 Encore enables older adultsApril to 3/21achieve Nissan a better quality of 7:12 p.m. Chol Hamo’ed Pesach (Exodus 33:12-34:26) www.charitableautoresources.com life by providing a comprehensive program of services, referrals, or email educationApril 9 and advocacy. For moreApril information 10/28 Nissan call Berks Encore [email protected] 7:19 p.m. Sh’mini (Leviticus 9:1-11:47) at 610-374-3195 or visit them at www.Berksencorepa.org April 16 April 17/5 Iyar 7:26 p.m. Tazria/Metzora (Leviticus 12:1-15:33)

April 23 April 24/12 Iyar 7:33 p.m. Acharei Mot/Kedoshim (Leviticus 16:1-20:27) Living with Loss  April 30 formerly Bereavement Group 7:41 pm

Mondays, March  and 22, 3:00- 4:30 p.m.  2131_Shalom_ad:LayoutFor more information1 9/8/09 11:57 AM Pagecall 1 Sari at 610-921-0624

A f f i n i t y B a n k P A . c o m How can I protect Can family members my assets? make medical decisions? When should Banking the Way I set up ASK THE a Power of ELDER LAW Attorney? It Should Be. ATTORNEY Now open in Exeter.

Products that make sense, service that With guest RSVP to Jill by calling makes friends. SEAN CURRAN, ESQ. 610-624-1299 or email [email protected].

Wednesday, April 28 12pm on Zoom WYOMISSING | READING SINKING SPRING | MUHLENBERG | EXETER LEARN MORE AT 803 Penn St., Reading, PA 19601 • www.manoratms.com 610.898.7700 Page 14 SHALOM April 2021 Israel Book Group: SHORT-TER M ‘Israel Matters’ REHABILITATION By Moisey Schneider feel it through a variety of historical, and Bill Franklin political and cultural perspectives. Dr. Mitchell Bard is the executive To show that Israel matters to all director of the nonprofit American Jews, the author introduces us to the Israeli Cooperative Enterprise and a opinions of American teens. Alex, 17, leading authority on U.S.-Middle East of Portland, Ore., says, “The security policy. His book shows a deep love for of Israel matters to me because I want the land of Israel and a deep respect my kids, my grandkids to visit the place for the complexities of its existence. I call home.” It is densely layered, wildly diverse, Gabrielle, 19, of Ambler, Pa, writes, alternately brash and philosophical, but “Israel is a spiritual icon, providing Awarded Medicare’s Highest Ranking – 5 STARS always fascinating beyond belief. religious refuge and symbolism to Highest Quality Care | Private Suites | Resort-Like Surroundings Bard helps us to understand the past people around the world and is a leading and look to the future of the Jewish State. innovator to medicine and technology.” Our team of skilled therapists promote functional independence and This comprehensive text will give you a Natalie, age 16, of Bloomfield, wellness in a holistic, personalized way – we aspire to restore your health practical understanding of the State of Mich., explains: “My biggest fear is that Israel, its historical importance, and its Israel will not exist for my children and as quickly and safely as possible. Our beautiful new rehabilitation center relevance today — why Israel matters! It grandchildren. Israel is at a do-or-die includes 18 private suites and is complemented by services and amenities. is especially helpful in connecting young state every day, and without the support readers with the broad scope of Israeli of teens like me, who knows what will history and culture and with the content happen in the future. Israel’s fate lies in Safely Welcoming Rehabilitation Patients! and moral dilemmas of Israeli’s daily life. our hands.” He presents an Israel full of political This book would be a wonderful To speak to our Clinical Liaison: debate, cultural clashes and the human text for a teen course on Israel. The dilemmas of real people. Israel’s author presents the complex issues 610.775.2300 Thehighlands.org historical, political, and cultural factors about Israeli politics and life and shape the Jewish state today and Israeli’s current and future problems. reinforce its importance to American He also offers many great questions interests. for discussion. Israel is a small country yet occupies Bard shows the story of Israel a large place in the hearts and souls of as the most exciting, dramatic and many diverse people. To Jews, it is Eretz fascinating one of the 20th century. Yisrael our ancient homeland, heroically Some stories are sad, some are reestablished after 2,000 years. This painful, but all are interesting and scrap of desert is center stage for many inspiring. This book is peppered with of the world’s miracles and spiritual little known facts, such as a map of 2000 Cambridge Avenue | Wyomissing, PA 19610 struggles for more than 5,000 years. British Mandate Palestine showing that Its archaeological wonders exhibit its what is now Jordan was the largest historical and religious significance to part of Palestine. He also points out many faiths. that the Bezalel Academy of Arts and The book also shows Israel’s Design was founded in 1906 and the Wanted: Good News! beautiful beaches, scenic deserts and Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra in 1936. geological wonders, exciting nightlife If ever there were a time to explain Share your simchas with the community. and excellent art scenes. This helps to a wide audience, why Israel matters, Just call the Federation office readers form their own relationship to it is now. This book does that and with this wonderful country and to see and it, so can you.. or email [email protected]. April 2021 SHALOM Page 15 Feeling right at home at Literatour Berks brunch

This year’s Literatour Berks brunch featured food for participants to take home and an online presentation by Jason B. Rosenthal, author of “My Wife Said You May Want to Marry Me,” on dealing with grief. Tracy Weiss, left, gets ready to share one of the special brunch baskets. At right, Mike and Sue Farrara enjoy the program and the meal. Comments from participants after the event: “it was amazing! Great presentation! I really enjoyed the conversation and incorporating audience questions smoothly into the presentation.” Special thanks to our Literatour Berks sponsors and patrons for supporting our second season!

Pediatric and Adult Patients B”H Treating Ear, Nose, Throat Problems Thyroid Nodules, Neck Masses & Sinusitis Chabad of Berks Physicians: James P. Restrepo, M.D., FACS, ECNU Charles K. Lutz, M.D., FACS Jeffrey S. Driben, M.D., FACS, ECNU Scott J. Cronin, M.D. Adam P. Vasconcellos, M.D.

Nurse Practitioner: Rosemarie Montgomery MS, CRNP, FNP-C

Audiologists:

Melanie A. Appler, AuD, FAAA Matthew R. Bonsall, AuD, FAAA Jenna L. Galan, AuD, CCC-A WhereALEPH CHAMPJudaism HEBREW READING Comes PROGRAM Alive! COOKING, ART AND STEM ACTIVITIES • JEWISH HISTORY & CULTURE Providing diagnostic and rehabilitative services for all types of hearing loss, for any age group. Hearing and Balance Disorders BAR/BAT MITZVAH PREPARATIONS • FAMILY HOLIDAY PROGRAMS State of the Art Hearing Aid Fittings In House Hearing Aid Repairs SUNDAYS 9:30AM - 12:30PM CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT CHABAD OF BERKS ENT Head & Neck Specialists, PC NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED 985 Berkshire Blvd., Wyomissing LEARN IT LIVE IT LOVE IT 610-374-5599 • www.ent-hns.net To enroll your child or more info: [email protected] or 610-334-1577 Page 16 SHALOM April 2021 Understanding the ‘If Only Israel’ syndrome

By David Harris a thunderous rejection, including denying any historical assured that lasting peace, not new phases in the CEO, American Jewish Committee Jewish connection with Jerusalem, accompanied by conflict, will be the outcome. Tellingly, few see that “If Only Israel (IOI) syndrome,” a term I began using the launching against Israel of a deadly wave of terror possibility on the horizon anytime soon, though when an several years ago, is the misguided notion, peddled attacks, which came to be known as the second intifada. opportunity came from the United Arab Emirates, linked in the name of Israel’s “best interests” by some in the And, not to be forgotten, a unilateral Israeli to Israel dropping any plans for annexation in parts of diplomatic, academic, and media worlds, that if only withdrawal from southern Lebanon also took place the West Bank, Israel quickly chose the UAE deal. Israel did this or that, peace with the Palestinians would during the Barak era. It was met by the entrenchment Israelis do not have to be pushed, prodded, nudged, be at hand. of Hezbollah, committed to Israel’s destruction, in the cajoled, or pressured to seek a comprehensive peace Poor Israel. If only it had the visual acuity of these vacated space. beyond the current treaties with Egypt and Jordan, “enlightened” souls, everything would be hunky-dory. Then, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who had also and now, notably, normalization agreements with the After all, according to them, Israel holds all the cards, earned the media’s label of “hardline,” defied his own UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco. More than any yet refuses to play them. Likud Party — indeed, he left it to create a new political other nation, they have lived with the absence of true, The thinking goes: Why can’t those shortsighted bloc — and uprooted thousands of settlers to leave lasting peace for nearly 73 years, and know full well Israelis figure out what needs to be done — it is so Gaza entirely. It was the first chance for Gaza’s Arab the physical, psychological, and economic toll it has obvious to us in Brussels, Paris, Dublin and Stockholm, residents to govern themselves. Neither the occupying inflicted on the country. in our ivory towers from Cambridge to Berkeley, and as Egyptians nor Ottoman Turks had ever done this. Rather, they must be convinced the tangible rewards commentators on BBC and CNN — so the conflict can Had Gazans seized the opportunity in a constructive justify the risks for a small state in a tough area. Those at long last be brought to a screeching halt? manner, they might have created unstoppable rewards begin with acceptance of Israel’s rightful place in Thus, if only Israel stopped any settlement building. momentum for a second phase of significant Israeli the region as a Jewish-majority state living in secure and If only Israel understood that Gaza’s tunnel-diggers and withdrawal from the West Bank. Instead, Gaza quickly internationally recognized borders. And that, more than rocket-builders do not really mean it when calling for the turned into a terrorist redoubt. settlements, checkpoints, or any of the other items on the Jewish state’s extinction. If only Israel restrained itself Then, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert pressed hard for a IOI bill of particulars, gets to the essence of the conflict. rather than responding to terrorist attacks against Israeli deal with the Palestinians on the West Bank. According The 2005 Gaza disengagement, not to mention the earlier targets. If only Israel stopped assuming the worst about to the late Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat, the Israeli withdrawal from the vast Sinai Peninsula, demonstrated Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas. If only Israel went the extra offer “talked about Jerusalem and almost 100% of the that settlements (and checkpoints) can be removed if mile with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. If West Bank.” Not only was it not accepted, but there was needed. But until the Palestinian side recognizes Israel’s only Israel got beyond its Holocaust trauma. If only Israel… no counterproposal from the Palestinian side. legitimacy, and stops viewing the Jewish state as an The point is, for the IOI crowd, it always seems to Netanyahu inherited a situation in which: (a) Hamas “interloper” that can be defeated militarily or swamped boil down to Israel. And the syndrome has only been holds power in Gaza, digging tunnels and amassing by “refugees”— who are in most cases third- and fourth- strengthened by its adherents’ assessment of the missiles to attack Israel, and teaches children to aspire to generation descendants of the original refugees from a war current Israeli government, of course. “martyrdom”; (b) Hezbollah continues to gain strength in started in 1948 by the Arab world — then whatever the IOI Many media outlets branded Prime Minister Lebanon, thanks to Iran, and has an estimated 100,000+ folks call for will be a secondary issue in the real world. Benjamin Netanyahu as “hardline,” or some variation missiles and rockets, which its leaders claim can reach any Until this recognition is reflected in Palestinian thereof, from the get-go. Their word choice simply point in Israel; (c) the Palestinian Authority has been AWOL textbooks, where children have been taught for reinforces the notion that the conflict is all about alleged for years from the negotiating table; and (d) Iran continues to generations that Israelis are modern-day “Crusaders” to Israeli intransigence, while avoiding any descriptive call for Israel’s destruction, while enhancing its own military be driven out, the hope for a brighter future, alas, is dim. judgment of a seemingly unassailable Mahmoud Abbas, capability, entrenching itself in Syria, and supporting Hamas. Until the Palestinian Authority succeeds in building other, perhaps, than “aging.” So, before Israel gets further lectures on what needs a serious and accountable governing structure, Israel It is important to underscore a few basic points too to be done, perhaps we should take stock of what is will have no choice but to operate in the West Bank to often lost in the din. First, the current Israeli government transpired — and why. prevent attacks against its civilian population. follows on the heels of previous governments that There have been several bold Israeli efforts since 2000 And until the forces seeking Israel’s annihilation can sought to achieve peace based on a two-state to create a breakthrough — and repeated failures. And that be contained, there will be a long shadow cast over the settlement with the Palestinians — and failed. Each of does not include Netanyahu’s unprecedented 10-month road to peace. Some argue this view gives the spoilers those governments went far in attempting to strike a settlement freeze and the Palestinian Authority’s refusal too much power. Rather, it simply acknowledges the deal, but, ultimately, to no avail. to seize this opportunity to break the stalemate. inescapable realities faced by Israel. Prime Minister Ehud Barak, joined by President Bill The vast majority of Israelis yearn for peace and Israel does not need still more lectures on the Clinton, tried mightily to reach a pathbreaking agreement understand the price the country will have to pay in importance of peace. Rather, it needs genuine partners, with PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat. As confirmed by territory and, presumably, displaced population. Poll starting in Ramallah. Without them, peace remains Clinton in his autobiography, the answer was, in effect, after poll proves their readiness, but only if they are elusive. With them, it becomes inevitable. MayApril 2010 2021 SHALOMShalom PagePage 17 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 Service $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 Taxi TransportationTransportation ProgramProgram $20 Contributions as of March 12 Contributions as of April 16 Holocaust Library & Resource CenterCenter $18 Doris Levin Fund UJA-FederationJewish Family Service Campaign Doris Levin Fund $10 In honor of: In honor of: PJ Library Fund Birth of Ellen and Don Abramson’s granddaughter Ruth Leora Abramson Sarah Simon’s engagement – Vic and Dena Hammel Michael ClyminHarry (Ellen & Abramson’sRose Sack father) Fund – Susan and Richard D’Angelo – Doris and Elliott Leisawitz Alma and Ed Lakin’s new home – Vic and Dena Hammel, Mildred & Ivan Frank MehringerEvelyn – Edith Thompson Mendelsohn Fund Gordon In memory of: Sam Goodman’s engagement – Alma and Ed Lakin C. Harold Cohn – Terri Hafetz, Doris and Elliott Leisawitz, Corinne and Andy Alyse Corbin’s marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin DorisFederation Levin Jewish Fund Community Campaign Wernick Sue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer In memory of: Eve Pardo – Haia and Meir Mazuz, Susan and Mel Blum, Doris and Elliott Birth of Selma Cutler’s great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr.C. Harold Walter CohnGershenfeld – Anzie and– Stephanie Edward Golden, and Dennis Rob andArbige, Yvonne Carole Oppenheimer, and Mike Leisawitz, Corinne and Andy Wernick, Jan and Jonathan Simon Moyer RobinsonEunice Boscov Irvin Cohen – Doris and Elliott Leisawitz Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Debbie Goodman and ShoshanaEve Pardo Tannenbaum – Debbie and – DavidCarole Goldberg, and Mike Susan Robinson Weiser Ernestine Urken (Vic Hammel’s mother) – Doris and Elliott Leisawitz John Moyer Sue B. Viener Memorial Fund (PJ Library) Arnold Berman (Ron Berman’s father) – Jan and Jonathan Simon Holocaust Library and Resource Center Elliott Goodfriend – Helene and Henry Singer In memory of: Get well: In memoryIrvin Cohen of: – George Viener Harold Leifer – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer Shoshana Tannenbaum – Ken and Mary Holt, George and Sue Viener, Sue JFS Food Pantry FriendshipSchlanger, Gordon Circle and Fund Carol Perlmutter, Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John EvelynIn memory Thompson of: Nursery School Fund InDeegan, memory Naum of: and Lyudmila Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and In memoryNelson Weisbergof: (Jerry Weisberg’s brother) – Naomi and Alex Knoll MarvinEve Segal,Pardo Vic– Lorrie and DenaHeisler Hammel, and Jennie Emma Saft, Holder, Glenn Susanand Gaye Gallagher, Corbin 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  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 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  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  High School. Pete has resurrected a professor also teaches at Reading Area course on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community College.  Valley, and its first offering is during As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, the current fourth quarter. He is very daughter of the late local Holocaust excited about offering this course to survivor Richard Yashek, is speaking at  his students and has even lined up Twin Valley, Hamburg and Fleetwood.  several guest speakers including Rabbi Right now Albright College is hosting Brian Michelson, Kim Yashek and Hilde an exhibit titled, “Stories Among Us: Gernsheimer. Washington State Connections to the Jim Konecke is teaching at Wilson Holocaust, Lessons in Genocide.” The Central Junior High but will be moving up exhibit includes the stories of five Holocaust to Wilson High School at the beginning survivors and one liberator and has of next school year. He will be offering a received good reviews. It is definitely course on Nazi Germany. His students worth a visit! It will be at Albright’s Gingrich will be studying this period of German Library through May 10. history in depth, including a study of the *** rise of anti-Semitism, the initial period of Jennifer Goss teaches social studies the Holocaust and the Final Solution. The in the Fleetwood School District and latter part of the course will look at post-war specializes in Holocaust education. Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests!

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

(610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Page 18 SHALOM April 2021

Community youth practice Tikkun Olam at Opportunity House

As part of the Tikkun Olam program led by Adi Shalev, teens in grades 10-12 are making lunch for the people at Opportunity House. Participants in March were Harry, Will, Melanie, Joshua, Jecob, Sam and Ruby.

M E E T P J O U R W A Y A U T H O R !

I N T E R E S T E D ? E M A I L A M A N D A A M A N D A H @ J F R E A D I N G . O R G

Thanks to our sponsors: This program made possible through a grant from PJ Library, a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation