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

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

JewishVolume Federation 40 of No.Reading 3 MARCh 2010 Adar-NisanNon-Profit Organization 5770 Jewish Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgINSIDE Reading, PA Change Service RequestedShalom1100 Berkshire Boulevard The Journal ofShalom the Reading JewishIt’s been Community an Publishedincredible as a community year. service Hope by you’ve the Jewish beenFederation here! of Reading, Pa. TThehe JJournalournal ofof the ReadingIt is hardJewish to believe Community.Community that a year Published Published has gone as as by a a since community community we relocated service service to the by by Jewish the the Jewish Jewish Cultural Federation Federation Center at of1100 of Reading, Reading, Berkshire Pa. Pa. Volume 40 No.Boulevard 5 in Wyomissing. If you haven’tMAY been here,2010 we hope to see you in the very near future.Iyar-Sivan For those of you 5770 who VolumeVolume 45, 40 No. No. 2 5 use the Center regularly or from FEBRUARY ‘timeMAY to time’, 2010 we2015 always appreciate your visits andSHEVAT-ADAR encourageIyar-Sivan your feedback. 57705775 INSIDE And, thank you all for your support throughout the year! ReflectionsINSIDE on Paul D. Cohn, President, Jewish Federation of Reading Cindy Balchunas, Chair, Jewish Cultural Center Committee Passover ShalomCampaignTammy K. Mitgang, brings Executive Director, in Jewish more Federation of Reading/Jewish than Cultural$540,000 Center The Journal of the Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by the Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa. Page 12 The 2014 Jewish Community Campaign necessary to meet critical needs in our area, celebrate their shared heritage. raisedThere $543,093 is for theno important free services lunch in and — around or the world.is there? Read Larry Rotenberg’s column on Page Volume 40 No.and 3 programming provided by the JewishM ARCThe Jewishh 2010 Federation provides important 3 to learn Adar-Nisan more about the valuable 5770 work FederationBy Paul D. Cohn of Reading and its affiliated socialCounty services have through gone Jewish to the JCC’sFamily preschool Service, Federationto look at all does, expenditures, then see making Pages sure 4 and that 5 forwe Free Jewish agencies.Federation president entertainingfor its excellent and learning enlightening curriculum.Many programming times ourare honorbeing goodroll of stewards 2014 donors. of your contributions. ProgramINSIDE at HundredsThe 2010 of peopleJewish from all walks of throughthe preschool the Jewish is a gateway Cultural for Center Jewish and families serves in WeThe are 2015making campaign progress in is all well areas underway. of your Bookbooks recounts for Ellen Azrael, Larry Rotenberg and Hilde Gernsheimer FreeAlvernia Jewish to lifeFederation in our region’sJewish Annual Jewish community rose1100 asBerks a placeBerkshire County, where where Jews they of can all Boulevard meetdenominations and make EveryoneFederation. is Weinvited are tonow make in a their position mark to on focus the kids150-year available history Campaign is under way.Photo by Jeremy Drey: Courtesyfriends of with Reading other Eagle Jewish families. In addition, on those programs and services that our booksfocusthrough foron Ellento the Azrael, challenge Larry ofRotenberg providing and the Hilde resources Gernsheimer as well as the unaffiliated can gather and community by showing support. peace This campaign is the since the school is open to everyone, it provides community wants and needs. kidsFederationof available a local It’s beenPhoto by Jeremy an Drey: incredible Courtesy of Reading Eagleyear. Hope you’ve been here! congregationthrough MakingFederation’s major sure source we nevera diversity forget experience at an early age. However the bottom line is that we are FederationPage 23 of funding,It is hard and toit believehelps that a year has gone• Cultural by since Programs we relocated and Services to the Jewish— The Culturalasking for, Center and need at 1100 your Berkshirehelp. And guess support the many important Federation provides many interesting and what? People do need a free meal every so Page 7 MakingByWeBoulevard Paul D. Cohn mourn in sureWyomissing. we If andyou nevertogether political haven’t context, been forget here,nothing we can hope with to see you inFrance’s the very near future. For thoseJews of you who programs and services that requested programs and services.Lectures, often. Seniors do enjoy the company and Page 3 Federation Chairman mask the darkest side of human help Jewsuse inthe our Center community regularly and abroad. or from Most ‘time films, to time’,discussion we groups,always and appreciate holiday events your are visits friendship and encourage that our services your feedback.provide. Parents Federations By PaulAsWe I D. mournwrite Cohn the loss of all thoseandbehavior.Could political who were context, one murdered view nothing our ability can in cold blood by the terrorists. Nutter of you are not new to the Campaign, And,and are thank just you a few all examples. for your In supportaddition, the throughout Federation theare year! relieved as they drop their preschooler helping FederationthisOur column thoughts Chairman it and prayers maskespeciallyand responsibility the darkest go toout side “never to of theforget” human families as of Yoav Hattab, Yohan Cohen, Philippe Braham, and officiatesGuitarist at accustomed to why this is such an important allocates funds to local synagogues to help off at our school, knowing that their child is in in Haiti is theAs dayI write after behavior.Couldan obligation? Ione think view so. ourNo matterability Reflectionsto perform on partFrancois-MichelPaul of your D. Federation.Cohn, President,Saada, Others viciously Jewishmay be Federationnewkilled within the their of Hyper Reading programs. Cacher WeCindy supermarketoffer Balchunas, programs inand Chair, an excellentact Jewish of anti-Semitic hands. Cultural Jews Center inmurder. Israel Committee and May around their the weddingGuitarist of thisyour columnFederation it andhow responsibility hard it is to to recall “never the forget” horrific as Passoverat annual tomemories our community. be Tammya Here blessing. are K. a Mitgang,few points Executivethat I services Director, that bring Jewish our communityFederation together. of Reading/Jewishworld are gratefulCultural for Center the funding we supply. Israelito performPage diplomat 4 issponsored the day after our anevents obligation? of the Holocaust,I think so. Nothose matter who meeting wouldTogether like you to with consider: all Jews around the world, we stand with the Jewish community Makingof France a pledge and to the the FrenchCampaign people is more at annual yourHolocaust Federation howsurvived, hard and it is tothe• recallIsrael generations the and horrific Jewsthat around the world Page 12 — JFS now — Federation has a long and rich history of than the money, at least it should be. It should meetingPage 22 sponsoredRemembrance—• kolJewish yisrael our Family arevim Services zeh la’zeh.eventsfollowed, Nous of the have Sommes Holocaust, to remember Juifs.those who and servesThere all age groupsis no and is free dedicated lunchto helping Israel. — Although or isour worldthere? is rapidly be your way of saying that you believe in and Foes of Israel HolocaustDay, which survived,continue andto put the the generations events Forof that the more on the reaction to the tragedy in Paris, turn to Page 2 maintaining and strengthening the quality changing, Israel is still a young country, and support our local Jewish community. It should start Pagecampaign 2 Remembrancewas held at followed,Holocaust have into modern-day to remember context. and Teens in BBYO ofBy individual Paul D. Cohn and family life in the Jewish unfortunately,County Jews have some gone groups to the JCC’sand countriespreschool beto lookyour at way all expenditures, of saying that making you want sure tothat help we to question Day,Kesher which continueSurvivors to need put theto continue events ofto thetalk Celebrating community.Federation presidentJFS runs a monthly food pantry dofor itsnot excellent recognize learning Israel’s curriculum.Many right to peaceful times Jewsare being around good the stewards world. It of should your contributions. be your way enjoynation’s a very busy wasSynagogue. held at I want to thank Holocaustabout their into experiences modern-day and context. educate Photo by Jeremy Drey: Courtesy of Reading Eagle withProgram Ethiopian at openJewishThe to both2010 the youth JewishJewish and non-Jewishexperiences: coexistence.the preschool is Given a Supportedgateway its forchallenges, Jewish families Jews inby ofWe sayingyour are making that you Federation progresshave resources in all areasto help of others your Celebratinglegitimacymonth KesherKesher Zion Synagogue for SurvivorsJews and neednon-Jews to continue alike. to talk AlverniaJews to communities,Federation Jewish helping Annual all to meet their dietary throughoutBerks County, the where world theyhelp canIsrael meet with and funding make PhotowhoFederation. byare Jeremy less We fortunate, Drey: are nowCourtesy and in aat ofposition times Reading destitute. to Eaglefocus with Ethiopian Synagogue.hostingIt’s that this time event,I want of yearas to well thank when as BerksaboutJews their County around experiences Jewish the world and community continue educate to being enriched by Jewish values cost of registration and travel. focusPage 9on needs.Campaign Did is you under know way. JFS coordinates andfriends resources with other so sheJewish can families. remain strongIn addition, and Iton should those be programs your way toand say services you care. that our JewsPagePage 74 manyKesherthank studentsDr. Zion Minna Synagogue start Bromberg longing forfor toJewsbe help victims and support non-Jewsof anti-Semitism. their alike. participation In addition, and the culture of Judaism in Deadline: Feb. 15. peace transportationThis campaign for the is elderly the and infirmed and vibrant.since the Our school funding is open also to helpseveryone, Jews it providesin other communityFor everyone wants who and hasneeds. already pledged, I summerhostingher spiritual break,this event,leadership. especially as well Tammyduring as inIsrael programsJews faces around new that andthe nurture world existing continue enemies. Jewish to a safe and supportive setting. Scholarship applications providesFederation’s counseling major tosource members of our Jewish countriesa diversity who experience want to at move an early to Israel, age. or who say However“thank you.” the For bottom those line of you is thatwho arewe stillare Page 4 thesethankMitgang long,Dr. did Minnacold an winter Brombergexcellent days. forjob identity,beHowever, victims leadership of with anti-Semitism. each and passing connections In addition, year we Applicants must be attending an can be found on the Jewish Page 2 community?of funding, andIn addition, it helps JFS provides an have• Cultural serious needsPrograms in their and own Services country. — The waitingasking tofor, pledge, and need I am your asking help. for Andyour guess help. A Gratz guide herof Is facilitatingspiritual your child leadership. thinking the afternoon’s of summerTammy withIsraelare losingtheir faces culture, our new Holocaust and history existing survivors and enemies. Israel. and overnight camp and be enrolled Federation of Reading’s website: Holocaust outreachsupport the program many andimportant acts as a clearinghouse FederationAs I mentioned provides above, many the interestingfunds raised and by Pleasewhat? Peoplepledge donow. need As ayou free have meal previously every so toJewish growing Family your camp?Mitgangsession. Or Mydid maybe thanks an excellent also traveling go to Dan job to However,theirThis families, year’swith alongeach deadline passingwith the for yearvaluable two we for a minimum of four weeks (or www.readingjewishcommunity. education forprograms other agencies and services in our that area. As economic therequested Campaign programs represent and the services.Lectures, largest portion of heardoften. meSeniors say, Jewsdo enjoy have thea rich company tradition and of HolocaustService Israel?ofTannenbaum, facilitating If so, don’t coordinatorthe forgetafternoon’s aboutof the ofarestories thelosing summerand our memoriesHolocaust awards survivorsthey is have Feb. and to a three-week second session). org under the Education tab. ownspreadingFederations Etrog tree in conditionshelp Jews inhave our worsened,community JFSand abroad.has seen Most an thefilms, Federation’s discussion budget.groups, Lastand yearholiday you events helped are leadingfriendship by thatexample. our services All of us, provide. no matter Parents how education thesession.Holocaust Student My Library Campthanks and alsoand Education goResource to Dan 15,theirpass so families, to don’t future alongwait generations. towith submit the valuable Venues your Deadline: Feb. 15. If you have additional for helpingTuBerks B’Shevat increaseof you are in notpeople new lookingto the Campaign, for help. and are contributejust a few examples. $600,000 In to addition, the Campaign. the Federation A few largeare relieved or small asthe they contribution, drop their have preschooler a chance spreadingPage 8 in AwardsTannenbaum,Center, a offered partnership coordinator by thebetween Jewish of the the scholarshipstoriessuch as and the memories application.United States they Memorialhave to High School Israel questions please do not hesitate in Haiti accustomed to why this is such an important – JCC’s yearsallocates ago, funds our Campaign to local synagogueswas over $1 million.to help tooff become at our school, leaders. knowing It all adds that up. their All childof us iscan in BerksPagePage 12 7 FederationHolocaustFederation• Lakin Library of Earlyand Reading! Albright Educationand Resource College. Center passHolocaustJewish to future Museum, Summergenerations. the Holocaust CampVenues Experience Award—up to $250: to contact William D. Franklin at preschoolpart of your and Federation. kindergarten Others have amay long be history new Sowith you their can programs. see that ourWe annual offer Estherprograms campaign Bratt and is changeexcellentLarry theRotenberg hands. world Jews withfor thegrandchildren in Israelbetter. and Talya around and the Eli Center,ThanksI also a partnership want to the to community’s thankbetween Hilde the AwardsuchCenter as--$250 atthe Albright, United per Stateschild:the Anne FundingMemorial Frank Programs such as Ramah in Israel 610-921-0624. Page 4 campaignFederationofto providingour community. support and quality Albright and Here education working College.are a with few in apoints isHolocaustnurturing, provided that I Museum, formoreservices Jewish important the that overnightHolocaust bring than our ever. communityor TheNFTY Federation in together.Israel are has designed worldFree areto lunch…I gratefulInterested don’t for the think funding inso. supportingIt weis worth supply. its Page 7 Gernsheimer, Ellen Azrael and House in Amsterdam, and the Yad Esther Bratt positivewould like environment. you to consider: Many generations of Berks taken• Israel steps toand help Jews reduce around our expenses the world and weightLarryMaking inRotenberg gold. a pledge with tograndchildren the Campaign Talya is and more Eli JEWISH families,LarryI also Rotenberg the want Educational tofor thank sharing Committee Hilde their summerCenterVashem at Holocaust campAlbright, experiences memorialthe Anne inFrank Israel for provide high school students with students as they pursue academic ofGernsheimer, the• JewishFederation FamilyEllen is proud Azrael Services to offerand — childrenHouseJFS now in ages Amsterdam, — 8-18. Federation Jewish and the camphas Yad a longa meaningful and rich history and exciting of than Israel the money,study at and least explore it should their be. It Jewish should FAMILYFoes of SERVICE: Israel personalserves all stories. age groupsEach story and had is itsdedicated serve as to valuablehelping educational Israel. Although and our world is rapidly be your way of saying that you believe in and Jewish Family monetaryLarryown senseRotenberg awards of sadness, to for Jewish sharing fear children/ and their (at offersVashemhistorical all Holocaust repositories. the benefits memorial of in other Israel experience. Students may apply culture at camp and abroad? startA campaigndifferent maintaining and strengthening the quality changing, Israel is still a young country, and support our local Jewish community. It should Service studentspersonaltimes) renewed stories. who are Eachhope residents storyand resolve. had of our its summerserveAll as of valuableus camps have a ineducational responsibility addition and to to for awards up to $250 toward the Please contact the Federation. Jewishto approachquestion Family ownof individual sense of sadness, and family fear andlife (atin thehistorical Jewish repositories. unfortunately, some groups and countries be your way of saying that you want to help nation’s Still,community. it was difficult JFS runs to listen a monthly to and food “never pantry forget” do and not to standrecognize up for ourIsrael’s right to peaceful Jews around the world. It should be your way to Servicecaregiving times)comprehend renewed their hope stories. and Ifresolve. anyone rightsAll andof us beliefs have asa responsibilityJews. We must to legitimacyPage 6 open to both the Jewish and non-Jewish coexistence. Given its challenges, Jews of saying that you have resources to help others Still,has itany was doubt difficult about to listenDo the Jewishto and YOU “nevercontinue forget” to educateand like to stand those up who forus? our do Follow us? Page 6 comprehendcommunities, their helping stories. all If toanyone meet theirrights dietary and beliefs throughout as Jews. the We world must help Israel with funding who are less fortunate, and at times destitute. Page 117 people’sneeds. Didwill toyou survive, know one JFS only coordinates not believe inand the resourcesHolocaust orso whoshe can remain strong and It should be your way to say you care. hasOne any of doubt the benefits about theof living Jewish in the digitalcontinue age is to educate• thoseSelect who the do Jewish Federation of needstransportation to study for the the Holocaust. elderly and infirmedattempt andto twist vibrant. the truth Ourof what funding actually also helps Jews in other For everyone who has already pledged, I people’sthe way technology will to survive, brings people one only together. not Did believe you inReading the Holocaust and or Jewishwho Cultural Center providesAlthough counseling one can to membersstudy the of ourhappened. Jewish Again,countries a special who thank want you to move to Israel, or who say “thank you.” For those of you who are still needsknow the to studyJewish the Federation Holocaust. of Reading attempt is using to twist of the Reading’s truth of what actually page andTrudy you’ll Katz andbe Ellentaken Azrael David, Larry and Alison Rotenberg eventscommunity? leading upIn theaddition, Holocaust JFS and provides to Hilde, an Ellen andhave Larry serious for sharing needs their in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. technologytry Althoughto put these to tryone events to bringcan into ourstudy historical community the happened.thoughts together and Again,directly memories a special with to thank us. the you JFR/JCC Facebook Jewish Family outreach program and acts as a clearinghouse As I mentioned above,Trudy the Katz funds and raised EllenPhotos Azrael by by PleaseBarbara pledgeNazimov now. except As as you noted have previously eventsthrough leading our Facebook up the Holocaust and Twitter and pages? to Hilde, Both Ellen andpage. Larry for sharing their David, Larry and Alison Rotenberg Service for other agencies in our area. As economic the Campaign represent the largest portion of heard me say, Jews have a rich tradition of trypages to put are these updated events by into our historical intern Abigail thoughts Heisler and memories• “Like” with us. the JFR/JCC FacebookPhotos by Barbara Nazimov except as noted conditions have worsened, JFS has seen an the Federation’s budget. Last year you helped leading by example. All of us, no matter how 2010 totals and offer information about upcoming events, page by clicking on the Like/thumbs up Page 8 increaseYashek in people lecturelooking for help. to focuscontribute on $600,000 France to the Campaign. A few large or small the contribution,Twitter: have a chance as of Feb. 19 pictures from activities and general information. We button in the center of the top of the JFR/ • Lakin Early Education Center – JCC’s years ago, our Campaign was over $1 million. to become• Search leaders. for Jewish It all adds Fed of up. Rdg All on of Twitterus can encourageYashek all community lecture members using to social focus JCC Facebookon France page. preschoolThis andyear’s kindergarten Richard have J. Yashek a long historyefforts So to youbetter can understand see that our these annual campaign is orchange @JewishFedRdg the world for on the the better.main page of Twitter Jewish media to find our pages on Facebook and Twitter. • Enjoy! By selecting “Like” of lectureproviding will quality be held education Thursday, in aMay nurturing, terrible more events important actually than accomplished ever. The Federation has •Free “Follow” lunch…I the don’t Jewish think Fed so. of It Rdg is worth Twitter its Community Here’sThis ayear’s brief How Richard To Guide: J. Yashek effortsyou’ll to better receive understand updates these about JFR/ positive6, at environment.8 p.m. in Memorial Many generations Chapel at of Berkstheir aims?taken stepsOr have to help they reduce actually our expenses and feedweight by inclicking gold. the Follow button on the top Campaign lecture will be held Thursday, May terribleJCC events events actually accomplished and postings in your Albright College. The speaker will be distorted historical understanding right of the Jewish Fed of Rdg page. $110,708 6, at 8 p.m. in Memorial Chapel at their aims?Facebook Or have Newsfeed they actually on your Facebook Richard J. Golsan, Ph.D., a professor and challenged the notion of the • By selecting “Follow” you’ll receive updates 2015 totals Albright College. The speaker will be distortedhomepage. historical understanding From the main JFR/JCC 2010 totals of French at Texas A&M University. uniqueness of the Holocaust as well as about the Federation in your regular Twitter feed. Richard J. Golsan, Ph.D., a professor and challengedFacebook the page notion you ofcan the also message as of Jan.April 2019 He is the author or editor of more the terrible singularity of the fate of its • Feel free to hashtag Jewish Fed of Rdg 2010 totals of French at Texas A&M University. uniquenessus, readof the Holocaust through as posts well as and look at than a dozen books. He has been a victims? This lecture will explore these whenever you attend events at the JCC or want as of April 19 He is the author or editor of more the terriblephotos singularity from ofrecent the fate events. of its Jewish visiting professor at the Sorbonne in issues through a discussion of recent to involve the JCC in a Twitter discussion. It’s a Jewish Community than a dozen books. He has been a victims? This• lectureFeel will free explore to tagthese the JFR/JCC Community Paris, where he taught courses on the works of literature and film as well as community page, and all are welcome to add, CampaignJewish visiting professor at the Sorbonne in issues pagethrough or a add discussion your own of recent photos when you Campaign memory of World War II in postwar the 1990’s trials of French citizens on comment and enliven the social network via Twitter. Community Paris, where he taught courses on the works ofattend literature JCC and events. film as well It’s as a community $168,382 French literature and culture. charges of crimes against humanity for Still have questions? Email our social Campaign$273,000 memoryFor moreof World Facebook:than War three II in decadespostwar thecomplicity 1990’spage trialsin the and of Final French all Solution. are citizens welcome on to add, *Includes transfers from media guru Abigail at [email protected] FrenchFrance• Search literature has been for and Jewishpreoccupied culture. Federation with charges of Thecomment oflecture crimes is againstand held enliven in humanity memory the for socialof network Donor Advised Funds We look forward to connecting with more $273,000 ReadingFor morein the than search three bar decades on the topcomplicity of via inFacebook. the Final Solution. traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivor of you via social media in 2015! yourFranceits Facebookrecent has past. been homepage. Butpreoccupied have national with andThe longtime lecture Berks is held County in memory resident. of traumatic moments and events of Richard J. Yashek, a Holocaust survivor 2010 totals its recent past. But have national and longtime Berks County resident. as of Feb. 19 Jewish Community Campaign $110,708 Page 2 SHALOM February 2015 Jewish Federations condemn attacks in France Following the tragic attack on the stated Michael Siegal, chair of JFNA’s the families of the victims, the French has regularly consulted with Jewish Charlie Hebdo magazine in January, Board of Trustees, “not just against Jews people and the Jewish community of organizations in the United States and a gunman took hostages at a Jewish and Jewish institutions but against the France during this difficult time.” around the world on security-related kosher supermarket in Paris, killing four. people of France and all those who value Following the attacks, Paul matters and in the wake of terrorist The Jewish Federations of North America freedom and democracy. Once again, we Goldenberg, director of the Secure attacks such as the ones perpetrated in condemn the attacks on civic institutions are forced to bear witness to the reality Community Network (SCN), traveled Paris this week. and Jewish targets in the strongest that terrorism continues to pose a threat to Paris to support the community in As we mourn with the French Jewish possible terms, mourn the loss of life to civil societies everywhere. Together, addressing security issues. SCN, the community, JFNA leadership will continue and pray for the injured, and express our as a global community, we must find a national homeland security initiative of to confer with government agencies and support for the people of France at this way to move past this horrible specter The Jewish Federations of North America officials on matters of Jewish communal difficult time. of hatred and violence. Our deepest and the Conference of Presidents of safety, and update Jewish community “We deplore these violent attacks,” condolences, hopes and prayers are with Major American Jewish Organizations, leaders as necessary. Nutter leads same-sex marriage ceremony for Israeli diplomat

Originally published we are adding another important on Ynetnews.com element of representing Israel other Maybe it really is always sunny than the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.” in Philadelphia — the mayor of the Strohmyer met his partner during City of Brotherly Love officiated a gay pride event in Tel Aviv last as a high-ranking Israeli diplomat June when he was on vacation in married his partner in a religious- Israel. civic ceremony. “We realized very fast that this Elad Strohmyer, Deputy Consul (was serious) and he joined me in General of Israel in Philadelphia, the US,” added Strohmyer. and his partner Oren Ben-Joseph In October, during an Israeli were married at the Philadelphia technology conference in City Hall in January in a ceremony Philadelphia that was organized by led by Mayor of Philadelphia Michael the Consul General of Israel in the Nutter and Conservative Rabbi city in conjunction with Chemi Peres Michael Bills. — who led a delegation of 15 Israeli Gay marriage has been legal technology companies — the two got in Pennsylvania since May 2014 engaged. and is accepted by reform and Nutter had been at the conference Conservative Jews. and after hearing of the story he The ceremony was held immediately offered to marry the Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter officiates at the wedding in the official reception hall at two Israelis. of Israeli diplomat Elad Strohmyer and Oren Ben-Joseph. Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Jewish Exponent. Philadelphia’s City Hall and was The mayor followed suit with attended by senior leaders of the his promise, and the event was liberal country that has progressive full equality of rights in Israel.” LGBT community in the city. scheduled. The ceremony gathered legislation on the subject of the The Foreign Ministry recognizes “It’s a big honor for me to get 150 guests, including friends and rights of the proud community. We same-sex couples and is considered married in the city that has been my family who traveled to Philadelphia hope our wedding will be an example to have a liberal approach on the home for the past three years and in from Israel especially for the for many additional couples and will topic. In the Foreign Ministry itself, which I represent Israel,” Strohmyer wedding. help advance civil and same-sex spouses of same sex couples are said prior to the ceremony. “The Local media in Philadelphia marriages in Israel,” added Ben- listed as “official” spouses. fact that the local media and the covered the ceremony, as the mayor Joseph. Strohmyer has been the Deputy leadership of the community is has only married three same-sex “I have worked in the tech industry Consul General of Israeli in expressing great interest and will couples since the law enabling for 18 years and in recent years I’ve Philadelphia since the summer of come to the wedding is really moving LGBT marriage was passed in held a central position at Microsoft, 2012, after serving as the deputy and also enables us to expose Pennsylvania — this it was the first and I see the difference in the ambassador of Israel in Angola for another facet of Israel that is not time Nutter conducted a matrimonial acceptance of LGBT employees from two years. He also represented Israel usually displayed in world media. ceremony for a diplomat. 18 years ago and today,” he said. “I at the “Gay Games” in Cleveland in Through our wedding that has been “It is important for us to represent have full faith that we will continue the summer of 2014 and won the awarded with a high media profile the pluralistic side of Israel, a to move forward until we advance to gold medal in sailing. CONNECT AND ENGAGE: COMMUNITY SHABBAT DINNER AND SERVICE

Let us connect with each other, our tradition, and God As we celebrate this special time.

February 6, 2015 Services are at 6:00 PM and Dinner is at 7:00 PM

Kesher Zion Synagogue 1245 Perkiomen Ave. Reading, PA 19602

Kosher Buffet Dinner: Vegetarian option by request Adults $20 per person* - Children and youth, 18 and under are free

Please RSVP to Brenda: [email protected] or call 610-921-0624

Sponsored by Chabad Lubavitch of Berks County, Jewish Federation of Reading, Kesher Zion Synagogue, and Reform Congregation Oheb Shalom

*Financial assistance available by calling Sari at 610-921-0624 Please note that security will be present that evening. Transportation for Highlands residents and carpooling is available to and from the Community Shabbat October 2012 SHALOM Page 3 Looking forward to a great New Year February 2015 SHALOM Page 3 DON’T MISS OUT By Alvin Katz in need. Providing food, assistance with visit, among other sites, Yemin Orde, and Be sure to pick up the October From the President’s Desk Chairman expenses and many other aspects of getting Meir Panim, which we support through I want to take this those less fortunate back on their feet. your contributions. Yemin Orde is a youth Berks County Living time to wish all of you a Our ܁nance committee has been working village in the Carmel mountains near Haifa magazine featuring a special Shalom! Fun at the Federationvery Happy and Sweet overtime ensuring that our funds are well which caters to youth in need, providing supplement produced by the New Year. cared and accounted for. I also want to them with shelter, emotional support and Jewish Federation of Reading. By William D. Franklin share of gift cards to local businesses. The OurAs Jewishwe enter Film into the series at the Fox recognizeThe Great Tammy Decisions Mitgang and series her startsentire an excellent education. Meir Panim is, for President evening was a great success and evoked NewEast Year,Theatre we startsreflect Feb. 18 with the Federation/JCCMonday, March staff 9, who and work will runtirelessly each the lack of a better description, similar to Special thanks to Campaign Early in January we enthusiastic suggestions for future events. onhistorical what documentarywe have “Welcome to forMonday you. for eight weeks. The first topic what we would call a soup kitchen but with Co-Chairs Howard & Victoria hosted a Trivia Night These ranged from more game nights to accomplishedKutsher’s: The this Last past Catskills Resort”. focusesAs we enter on “Human the New TraffickingYear, I am happy in tothe a different concept. Here those in need can at the Jewish Cultural entertainment and wine tastings to glass yearOn Feb. and what22nd, challenges there will belie aheada JCC forYouth us announce21st Century.” that we have a Mission to Israel get hot meals that are SERVED to them, not Hafetz for spearheading the Center. Fifty-four blowing. Everyone had a wonderful time inEvent the coming for Grades year. 1-6Your at Federation Snapology, has a this monthWe would in conjunction love your with input the Allentown on any cafeteria style as here in the States, so that project, which raised $19,200 for community members of and looks forward to future events. providedfun environment many interesting where childrenprograms learn and Federation.ideas for newWith programming.the numbers participating, Call JCC they don’t feel like they are getting a handout. Federation! See Page 7 for a list all ages came together So, here is a small list of our speakersmath, science, this past technology, year. We have engineering attended thisProgram should Director be a very Amanda worthwhile Hornberger Mission. In addition, Meir Panim serves thousands of advertisers and patrons. to schmooze, have fun upcoming events programs.The toand those literacy less fortunate, concepts maintained using our Lego® state Theyat 610-921-0624. will be visiting many She’s sites looking and meetingforward of hot meals to schoolchildren throughout and feel part of our Community Shabbat at Kesher Zion certi܁edbricks and Nurseryother similar School. building We tools. completed withto meeting some well-knownall of you. names in Israel Israel and maintains a Goodwill-like facility Look for it at local retailers and Jewish community. One on Feb. 6. Delicious food and singing aAnd very on successful March 1 atGratz noon College our community program politicsContinuing and military. to carryI feel certain our Jewishness that many to help furnish clothing and furniture to those team won twice and with our preschool children are several forcelebrates our teenagers a special and a wonderful Purim event senior at ifinto not the all futureof them is awill privilege return andwith a a delight. better in need. For both of these organizations and libraries and at the Berks Encore over one-third of the participants won a of the special events for the evening. program.RCOS. Our Jewish Family Service has understandingSee you at the of community Israel and itsShabbat. position in Jews throughout the world who receive your Senior Expo Oct. 23 at BodyZone. again done a wonderful job helping those the world and the Middle East. They will support, I thank you. The Federation: What isFrom it? the WhyPresident’s doDesk we need it? And what doesBeing it Alma do? By Tammy K. Mitgang East troubled her, and she knew that ground in Ethiopia — the Jewish Agency bears their name, and as the ܁rst female By Larry Rotenberg Does it play a role PresidentStreet Y in New York City. lifeAlbright for Israel Colleges — though on various it is shared a ܁rst-­world for Israel and the American Jewish Joint President of the Jewish Federation of Chairman in the non-Jewish community? AlmaIf you Lakin come would to be the Cultural Center economycultural activities. like the USA, was dif܁cult and Distribution Committee (JDC) — feared Reading, she and Dan Tannenbaum, What is the Absolutely. The Federation receives theon Wednesdays, ܁rst to pooh-­pooh you will see crowds complicated.Berks County is fortunate to have for the Ethiopian Jewish community’s an executive director of the Federation, Federation? a generous grant from United Way, and anyof people notion enjoying that she a high-level bridge SteveWhen Elmarzouky, I interviewed a Muslim her entrepreneurfor a video safety when rebel forces threatened brokered a partnership with her alma It is the umbrella its Jewish Family Service component, wasgame, amazing, the results special of which are frequently thatand recognizedphilanthropist, her who and works her husband, tirelessly to overrun Mengistu Haile-Mariam’s mater, Albright College, that would organization of the headed by Sari Incledon, serves all orreported that she in inspired the Reading the Eagle. Ed’sfor interfaith community harmony service in our region. and the Commmunist government. establish the Holocaust Library and Jewish Community. citizens of Berks, regardless of religious extraordinaryAgain, Jewish in others. Family Service deals establishmentWhat about of problemthe Holocaust solving? Library What followed was one of the most Resource Center on the campus. It supports all Jewish or ethnic affiliation. Petite,with the big neediest hearted situations and and supplies andThe Resource Federation Center triesat Albright to anticipate College, dramatic rescue operations in Israel’s Being Alma meant tireless service life, both individual Additionally, through its donor-advised deliberate,a safety net, time which spent supplements other sheproblems did not talk and about to takeher efforts preventive to raise history. Over 34 hours and four minutes, and no fanfare — certainly no pictures and organizational. funds, the Federation supports a number withsources Alma of help.was never moneymeasures and toresettle resolve Soviet them. Jews And in above our 34 Israeli cargo and passenger planes if she was expected to be in them. While the Federation of cultural activities, open to all in the aboutWhat her. about interfaith activities? community.all, its role is Instead, the preservation she spoke of ofJewish how worked around the clock, airlifting 14,310 Accolades were not her style; but she is nondenominational and even secular, Community. SheThe caredFederation about works others with all — people strangers, thrilledLife in Berks.she was to meet with Natan and Ethiopian Jews to Israel from Addis was not without opinion — thoughtful its services and resources support all What activities does it sponsor? familyof good and will friends. to create And an sheatmosphere worked toof AvitalThe SharanksyTalmud says —that refuseniks he who save who at Ababa. Alma would have beamed having and at times, determined. But, no matter religious, ethnic, cultural, and historical The range is considerable — from improveacceptance the and world tolerance — here for all. at Some home, in extraordinaryone life, it is personal as if he saved risk and the whole sacri܁ce heard MK Sholomo Molla’s incredible life what she put her efforts behind, you could activities in the Jewish Community. a food bank that serves the needy to Israelbut by and no meansaround allthe inclusive world. When examples you helpedWorld. toHow spark much and more later trueignite is a it global when story that he credits to the work of the be sure that she was right by your side, scholarly lectures through the 92nd wereinclude with cooperation Alma, it was with all Alverniaabout you, and it movementwe are dealing to free with Soviet a community’s Jewry. Between life. Federation system that saved his life. working hand in hand with you and others was you who were front and center and 1990 and 1997, Federation’s Operation (see page 5) to do great things. Rabbi shares positive experiencesmade to feel of special. life in ReadingExodus campaign nationally raised $1 Alma shared her excitement and pride Alma considered herself privileged Alma believed that we are responsible billion to rapidly rescue and resettle more that helped to raise nearly $1 million to have enjoyed so much of life. One of Rabbi Rachel Schwartz of Kesher walk of 2.5 miles, people went out of for each other according to the principles than one million Soviet Jews in Israel and locally toward the capital campaign that her favorite memories was crossing over Zion Synagogue wrote the following in their way to get me and my children on of chesed (caring and compassion), North America. PS – Alma marched with would build the U.S. Holocaust Memorial into when the borders with Israel response to a community member’s the right track. One young man, named Torah (Jewish learning), tikkun olam others in our community on the National Museum in Washington, America’s were reopened. “To think, she would concerns regarding security in her shul’s Acai, was worried he might have given (repairing the word) and tzedakah (social Mall in Washington during one of the national institution for the documentation, reminisce; “that we along with other neighborhood. She wishes to share it with us confusing directions and even came justice). And her life was an embodiment largest marches in American history. That study and interpretation of Holocaust Federation mission-goers, met with King the community. back and found us to make sure we were of those principles. rally would become a turning point in this history. She reଂected on the mixture of Hussein. Ed and I were so fortunate.” going in the right direction. She believed in the bold collective movement. raindrops and tears that fell the night of Her family was her heart. She Dear Friend, The City of Reading is undergoing of Federation and knew that together She spoke about the unity of the its dedication as she, Ed and others from considered a better world, her I have heard that you will not be a metamorphosis. Come through the we could mobilize ܁nancial and social Jewish world that resulted in the our community donned their construction responsibility and life — a special reward. coming to Kesher Zion Synagogue (KZ) center of the city and you can see new resources that could rescue Jews, Operation Solomon rescue mission that hats and toured the vast and important I think those of us who knew Alma were for Community Shabbat and any other construction, interesting independent strengthen the Jewish people and took place in May 1991. The state of structure. the truly the fortunate ones. event at KZ due to safety concerns. I stores, and cultural activities! I encourage literally, change the world. Israel, together with Jewish Federation At home in Berks County, the JCC’s Alma Lakin passed away Aug. 27 at want to allay your fears by sharing my you to witness and be a part of this rebirth The ongoing turbulence in the Middle of North America’s major partners on the Lakin Early Education Center preschool the age of 82. experiences since coming to Reading in of a city and community as Reading and September. KZ experience a renewal. I rent an apartment a couple blocks In order to get to Kesher Zion, from KZ. When I moved in, my neighbors continue straight on Penn Avenue after Federation mission to Israel begins Oct. 21 put notes on my door welcoming me to crossing the bridge from West Reading. A joint mission composed of chaired by Michael and Susan Fromm and Berks County will be joining the group purpose and heightened appreciation the neighborhood and offering assistance When you get to the park make a very community members from the Reading Victor and Dena Hammel. In addition to on the mission. and connection to Jewish identity. during our transition. When the weather slight right onto Perkiomen Avenue. At area and the Lehigh Valley will leave for Mitgang, Jayne Kleinman, Cultural Center The Reading Jewish community has Mission participants will visit Reading’s is nice, I love to walk all around Reading. the end of the park, make a left onto Hill Israel Oct. 21. program director and Mark Goldstein, bene܁ted from teaming with the seasoned Israel Now projects — two important (Did you know there is a little vineyard Road and the Kesher Zion parking lot is For the Reading community, it is the Executive Director of Jewish Federation of mission-goers from the Allentown area humanitarian efforts that both save several blocks from KZ?) While walking, on your right. ܁rst mission the Federation has ledin the Lehigh Valley will staff the mission. and Lehigh Valley Federation’s “well- and change lives — Yemin Orde Youth I have never been catcalled, harassed, We can’t wait to welcome you! more than 15 years. A goal of Federation Rabbi Brian Michelson from oiled” mission process. Village in the Carmel Mountains and Meir or made to feel uncomfortable by another With blessings, President Tammy Mitgang and Federation Congregation Oheb Sholom and Rabbi “Mark Goldstein and his staff have Panim’s new nutrition center in Kiryat person in any way. While lost on my way Rabbi Rachel Schwartz leadership, the Reading mission is co- Yosef Lipsker, Chabad-Lubavitch of created over the years a network of Gat, where the community will dedicate to Tashlich at the Reading Museum, a resources and processes that have the kitchen that was made possible bene܁ted our community — newbies, thanks to the Reading community’s if you will, when it comes to mission funding efforts. SHALOM planning. And, we are neighbors. The The dedication will be a big thank you BERKS CARDIOLOGISTS, LTD. A newspaper serving the Jewish community of Reading, Pennsylvania, mission project is just the start of future to our community and a proud moment. A newspaper serving the Jewish community of Reading, Pennsylvania, and published monthly, September through June, under the Jewish joint efforts,” Mitgang said. With two out of every ܁ve children in and Diagnostics Imaging Center and published monthly, September through June, under the Jewish Federation of Reading. Funded by the Reading United Jewish Campaign. There are many details that need Israel living below the poverty line, Federation of Reading. Funded by the Reading United Jewish Campaign. to be addressed when moving a group Meir Panim’s network of soup kitchens, General Offices: 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125 of more than 50 people across Israel. restaurants and feeding centers, ensure 2605 KEISER BLVD. General Offices: 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125 Wyomissing, PA 19610 Jewish Federation of North America’s warm, nutritious meals for thousands of Wyomissing, PA 19610 WYOMISSING, PA 19610 Phone: 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 Missions Department and its staff in children and families every day. Phone: 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 Web site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Israel along with Kenes Tours will further At Yemin Orde, the group is anxious to Web site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org ensure that each and every day of the see ܁rsthand the progress that has been FOR AN APPOINTMENT, CALL Jewish Federation of Reading mission is maximized. made at the village since the wild܁res Chairman:Jewish Federation of ReadingAlvin Katz (610) 685-8500 Federation missions are travel devastated it in 2010. President:Chairman: TammyLarry Rotenberg K. Mitgang experiences unlike any other. Along The group is honored that Chaim Peri, CommunicationsPresident: Director: MarkWilliam Nemirow, D. Franklin Editor Gary M. Lattin, MD Hani H. Salha, MD with visits to historic and sacred sites, beloved educator and director of Yemin Proofreaders:Communications Director: EstherMark Nemirow, Strauss & Editor Federation staff Charles R. Minehart, MD Rajendra H. Solanki, DO museums and popular tourist destinations, Orde for 30 years, will personally be hosting Member:Proofreaders: AmericanFederation Jewish staff Press Association Meir Mazuz, MD Ronald J. Polinsky, Jr., MD Federation missions provide exclusive, the group during a tour and lunch. TheMember: opinions expressed in Shalom are Americanof the writers Jewish and not thePress Jewish Association Federation of Reading Guy N. Piegari, Jr., MD Michael B. Russo, MD insider access to residents, community Young people from the village will join Frank Politzer, MD Christopher B. Rogers, DO leaders, area experts, and political the group for the tour and share their The opinions expressedDeadline in Shalom for theare of November the writers and notissue the Jewish is Oct. Federation 5 of Reading Louis Borgatta, MD Troy W. Trayer, DO personalities and provide a sense of experiences. Mayank R. Modi, MD Nicholas A. Rossi, DO Andrew R. Waxler, MD Next deadline, Feb. 5 Page 4 SHALOM February 2015 2014 Jewish community campaign honor roll ADVANCED LEADERSHIP GIFTS Lee and Karen Meyers David and Barbara Bender $25,000 + Jeffrey and Tammy Mitgang Lee and Amy Berger Albert and Eunice Boscov Paul and Ellen Mitnick Ken and Amy Bloom Shirley Boscov Jeff and Lisa Nemeroff Alice Botvin Irvin and Lois Cohen Michael and Barbara Perilstein Phil Yoder and Stephanie Brok Howard and Victoria Hafetz Robert and Judy Pollack Robert and Beth Bruck Victor and Dena Hammel Seth and Barbara Rosenzweig Ivan and Paula Bub Edwin Lakin Michael and Janice Schiffman Jeffrey and Adrienne Cardinal Sandy Solmon and Douglas Messinger Roger Schein Loretta Charnoff Paul and Ellen Schwartz Karen Checkamian LEADERSHIP GIFTS James Rothstein and Sharon Scullin Brett and Cindy Chronister Eugene and Helen Shaffer Stanley and Deborah Cieplinski $10,000 + Jonathan and Janice Simon Ron and Judy Citron Richard* and Maxine Henry Richard and Mindy Small Bruce and Sharyn Cohen Kenneth and Maralyn Lakin M. Robert and Kaye Ullman Icy Cohen Jerome Marcus Robert T. Ullman Nelson Cohen Meir and Haia Mazuz M. Herbert and Susan Wachs C. Harold Cohn Irvin G. and Beatrice M. Shaffer Fund of the Andrew and Corinne Wernick Claire Cooper Berks County Community Foundation Eric and Deborah Zelnick Judith Copeland Richard and Susan Dangelo Henry and Helene Singer SPONSOR GIFTS Stephanie Davis $500 + Paul Delfin and Nancy Russo MAJOR GIFTS Radene Gordon Beck and Hugh Beck Jeri Deisinger $5,000 + Eric and Marissa Bluestone Brett Driben Donald and Tali Fox Mel and Susan Blum Matthew Driben Hilde Gernsheimer Walter and Randy Brandt Sorrell and Donna Eisenberg Neil Hoffman and Judith Kraines Stuart and Carol Cohn George and Marcia Eligman Neal and Judith Jacobs Scott and Sandy Davis H. Anderson and Judith Ellsworth Robert and Yvonne Oppenheimer Richard and Carmen Fisher Oleg and Tatyana Erlikh Jill Skaist Sandra Fishman Susan Pollack-Esposito Rosalye Yashek Jeffrey and Janet Gernsheimer Michael and Sue Farrara Gary Ginsberg Bernard and Hilda Feldman PACESETTER GIFTS John and Sari Incledon John and Jacquie Fernandez $2,500 + Ruth Isenberg Arthur and Lorayn Fischman Harriet Baskin Robert and Shirley Kauffman Gerald and Raie Fogelman Paul and Jo Cohn Jayne Kleinman Miriam Fogelman Jeffrey and Lynn Driben David and Jeraldine Kozloff Gene and Shirley Friedman Irving and Arlene Ehrlich Brett L. Kutscher Irwin and Joan Friedman Marc and Marcia Filstein Harlan and Carole Kutscher Barbara Garcia David and Debbie Goldberg Elliott and Doris Leisawitz Naum and Lyudmilla Ger Michael and Gayle Kastenbaum Igor and Nora Maidansky Jack Gernsheimer and Nancy Wolff Trudy Katz Jay and Tess Melvin Robert and Margery Gilbert Paul Mintz and Solange Israel Mintz Edith Mendelsohn Jesse and Marcella Goldberg Gordon and Carol Perlmutter Rabbi Brian and Holly Michelson Edward and Ann Golden Larry and Alison Rotenberg Kate Mohn Matthew Goldstan William Sedlis Jay Moyer Harvey and Roberta Goldstein Allan and Robin Sodomsky Mark and Geraldine Nemirow Martin and Barbara Goldstein George and Sue Viener Barbara Paul Jane Goodman Philip and Leslie Pomerantz Lillie Gordon Michael Gordon SPECIAL GIFTS Marvin and Florence Segal Susan Schlanger Michael and Zina Gorelik $1,000 + Bruce and Janine Ure Carol Greenberg Anonymous Vladimir and Elina Vaysman Don and Ann Greth Sidney and Esther Bratt Louise Weiner Lawrence and Fran Gross Stephen and Jan Carlson Norman and Rita Wilikofsky Marcia Gross Robert and Beth Caster Randall and Mara Winn Jacob and Jennifer Gurwitz Glenn and Gaye Corbin Louise Zeidman Michael and Jill Haas Jerome and Rhoda Dersh Robert and Rona Haftel Albert Diamond COMMUNITY GIFTS Kevin Horowitz Kalman and Margaret Feinberg $1 + Mel and Barbara Horwith Steve Finkel David and Alice Hyman Samuel and Sarah Flamholz Theodore and Anna Lee Aarons Donald and Ellen Abramson Victor and Kathleen Jacobs Alan and Lory Fleischer Marc Jacobs Jeffrey and Deborah Frank Allison Althouse Richard and Julie Alweis Martin and Karen Jacobson Bernard and Barbara Fromm H. Allen and Phyllis Jacoby Deborah Goodman and John Moyer Lionel and Mary Jane Asher Jonathan and Maryann Avins Ralph and Frances Joseph Ivan Gordon Myron and Karen Kabakoff Rosalind Hyman Marshall and Ellen Azrael Wendy Babitt and Todd Staub Scott and Judith Kaneff Alvin and Betsy Katz Bernard and Janet Kaplan Alan and Marjorie Leisawitz George and Cynthia Balchunas Anneliese Bateman Herbert and Noel Karasin Alan and Lisa Levine Harry Knoblauch Jack Linton Arthur Becker Martin and Norma Beckerman Nancy Knoblauch February 2015 SHALOM Page 5 2014 Jewish community campaign honor roll KZ Synagogue Sisterhood Michael and Eve Pardo Harvey and Renee Seidel Jennifer Koosed Alec and Gretchen Platt Lila Shapiro Paul and Susan Landry Jesse and Elaine Pleet Marj Shearer Stephen and Carrie Latman Frank and Kathleen Politzer Berna Sherman Roberta Lawit Edna Pollak Daniel Sherman Jack and Teri Lefkowith Valerian and Svetlana Popov Barbara Silverberg Ben and Michele Leisawitz Harold Pototsky Mel Singer Henry Levin Prudence Precourt Charon Snyder Margaret Levine Jonathan Primack and Pam Charendoff Sidney Sokoloff Paul Levy and Susan Tobey Lee and Jodi Radosh David and Ruth Spillerman Rabbi Yosef and Chana Lipsker Lydia Ramos Sidney and Phyllis Symons Daniel Litvin Michael and Carole Robinson Jill Trout William and Beth Litvin Leonard and Sheila Rosenzweig Fred Wagner and Eileen Knoblauch-Wagner Jeffrey and Robin Lupowitz Leah Rotenberg Andrea Watkins and Jeffrey Sternlieb Dennis and Karen Lutz Sandra Rowan Andrew and Laurie Waxler Alan and Rochelle Mann Trina Rudolph* Sheryl Weintraub Michelle Mart Paul and Elaine Safir Alan and Susan Weisberg Dwight and Mindy McIntosh Jeannette Saft Jerome and Pamela Weisberg Joan Mellon Judith Sager George and Marlene Weiss Bernard and Toby Mendelsohn Lynn Salpeter Jeffrey and Ilene Weizer Frances Mendelsohn Michael Schein Sylvia Wenger Donald Miller Scott and Katherine Schickler Lee Weyant Anne Missan Peter and Helaine Schiffman Susan Wilson Phyllis Murr Herbert Schneider Emanuel and Yvonne Wittels Bettina Najer Moisey Schneider Sanford and Sandra* Youngerman Barbara Nazimov Timothy and Cynthia Schuchart Michael and Sharon Zamrin Randy and Esta Neugroschel James and Judith Schwank Allen and Amicie Zimmerman Wendy Neuhs Peter Schwartz Neal and Sandee Nevitt Jon and Alva Scott *Indicates Deceased “Stop the Sirens” Campaign We wish to recognize and thank the following members of the Berks County Jewish Community who made gifts to the “Stop the Sirens” Campaign last summer to provide humanitarian assistance to Israelis who were affected by the rocket attacks from Gaza.

Robin and Adam Altman Carol Greenberg John and Linore Pearson Carolyn and Henry Ansell Kenneth and Linda Greenberg Annette and Sean Peppard Eden Astorino Lawrence and Fran Gross Carole and Michael Robinson James and Jackye Barrer Marcia Gross Michael and Linda Roeberg Harriet Baskin Victor and Dena Hammel Richard and Kathleen Roeberg Barbara and David Bender Maxine Henry Larry and Alison Rotenberg Mel and Susan Blum Maxine Hornberger Jeannette Saft Shirley Boscov Sari and John Incledon Michael and Janice Schiffman Sidney and Esther Bratt Ruth Isenberg Susan Schlanger Robert and Beth Caster Myron and Karen Kabakoff Moisey Schneider Cindy and Brett Chronister Bernard and Janet Kaplan Judith and James Schwank Alexa Chronister Michael and Luba Karchevsky Alva and Jon Scott Irvin and Lois Cohen Alvin and Betsy Katz Harvey and Renee Seidel C. Harold Cohn Robert and Shirley Kauffman Susan Sellgren Harriet Comite Jayne Kleinman Eugene and Helen Shaffer Gaye and Glenn Corbin Harry Knoblauch Lila Shapiro Susan and Richard Dangelo Judith Kraines and Neil Hoffman Daniel Sherman Jeffrey and Lynn Driben Kenneth and Maralyn Lakin Jonathan and Janice Simon Sorrell and Donna Eisenberg Alan and Marjorie Leisawitz Henry and Helene Singer Marcia and George Eligman Doris and Elliott Leisawitz Frederick and Julie Singer Ethel Engel Lisa and Alan Levine Jill Skaist Carol and Robert Erkes Margaret Levine Sidney Sokoloff Margaret and Kalmen Feinberg Igor and Nora Maidansky Alan and Sheryl Stern Marc and Marcia Filstein Meir and Haia Mazuz Sidney and Phyllis Symons Steven Finkel Jim and Claire McHenry Robert Ullman Arthur and Lorayn Fischman Joan Mellon Janine and Bruce Ure Richard and Carmen Fisher Bernard and Toby Mendelsohn Aaron Ure Sandra Fishman Brian and Holly Michelson Johanna Ure Samuel and Sarah Flamholz Susan Miller Lena Ure Deborah and Jeffrey Frank Paul and Sheina Missan Carolyn and John Vella Barbara Gelman Marissa Missan George and Sue Viener Naum and Lyudmilla Ger Kate Mohn Andy and Corinne Wernick Gary Ginsberg Phyllis Murr Norman and Rita Wilikofsky Jeffrey Gold Barbara Nazimov Emanuel and Yvonne Wittels Ann and Edward Golden Barbara Newman Rosalye Yashek Deborah Goodman and John Moyer Barbara and David Paul Louise Zeidman Page 6 SHALOM February 2015 Congregational News Torah provides spiritual warmth in wintertime By Rabbi Rachel Schwartz transforming the forest into what looked that we are like these trees. Right now, our chet-yud-yud-mem. The two yuds in the Kesher Zion Synagogue like an enchanted winter wonderland. trees are storing and preparing substance middle represent God’s Presence, and This year, as I These trees have stood witness to a for spring. In some trees, the starch that the chet together with the mem form travel up and down myriad of people on their journeys: Some is stored in their trunks and roots before ‘cham’, meaning warmth. During the I-287, I-78, and Route rushing, some dawdling. Some paying winter becomes converted into sugar that cold months, we seek to energize the 222, I have watched attention and others quite distracted. goes up in sap through the tree in spring, presence of God in our lives, a presence the trees transform We humans come and go, yet, the trees bringing sweetness to those who tap into that brings warmth from the inside out from bright green to are always there anchored by their deep it. Isaiah 65:22 states “As the days of the and that brings light into the dark places. dazzling yellows, reds, roots. tree shall be the days of my people.” We In Judaism, our Eitz Chayim - Tree of Life and oranges. Some This month, Shevat, we celebrate Tu too are waiting for the sweetness and is our Torah. of the leaves faded to B’Shevat, also known as the birthday of rebirth of spring. We too during these Torah is available in formal and brown as they fell to the the trees. The rabbis use this holiday to darker months need to tap into our hidden informal ways to everyone of every ground, leaving tall branches stretching calculate the life of the fruit- bearing trees energies and spiritual reserves. When the age in Berks County. I encourage into the autumn sky. At times, white in order for us to fulfill our obligations to spring comes we will come out renewed. you to find a way that is comfortable snow rested on these dark branches, the trees and to God. Our rabbis teach Rabbi Rami Shapiro teaches, “Tu B’Shevat for you this season to connect with is a call to return not just to Nature, but to our Torah, whether it is by reading our own nature. It is a reminder to plant at home sitting by a cozy fireplace, ourselves firmly in the Place (Makom, the attending a class, coming to Community LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES All-Present One) that is every place, and Shabbat, participating in the Sisterhood COMMUNITY SHABBAT — Friday, Feb. 6, at Kesher Zion. Service at 6 to awaken to the fundamental unity of God, Tu B’Shevat Seder, eating and sharing p.m.; dinner at 7. Please RSVP to Federation office for dinner. woman, man, and Nature. We are Nature’s with friends, and so much more. Let us way of tending, and of doing what needs nurture ourselves, those we care for, and KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE (610) 374-1763 to be done.” our beautiful community this winter with Sunday, Feb. 8: Tu B’Shevat Seder, 1 p.m. We must challenge ourselves to stay God’s warm words of Torah so we can Weekly services Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. spiritually energized and connected. emerge anew in the spring journeying Friday Evening Service – Please call for service information For this winter work, we summon up the from slavery to freedom from the depths Babysitting available upon request with one week’s notice energy embodied in the word “chayim”, to new heights from our despairs to our meaning “life,” spelled in Hebrew as greatest joys. L’Chaim! REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 Fridays, Feb. 13, 20 and 27 at 7:45 p.m.. Saturday, Feb. 21: Tot Shabbat, 10 a.m. CHABAD CENTER OF BERKS COUNTY (610) 921-0881 World Wide Wrap Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. CONGREGATION SHOMREI HABRITH Sunday, Feb. 1, 9:30 a.m. Kesher Zion Synagogue KZ Tuesday night minyan celebration Join other Conservative congregations around the country in minyan and the mitzvah of wearing tefillin. More details coming soon!

Save The Date!

Kesher Zion Tuesday night minyan lights candles together on the eighth night of Hanukah. May the light of the candles continue to illuminate our way as we enter the secular new year. 1st row: Sy Youngerman, Jennifer Koosed, Harvey Goldstein, Myron Kabakoff. 2nd row: Elliot Leisawitz, Alan Mann, Eileen Knoblauch Wagner, Lisa Levine, Rochelle Mann, Leonard Levey, Rachel Schwartz, Irv Ehrlich, and Janet Kaplan

Musical Shabbat & Oneg Lunch & Learn Friday, March 20, 2015 with Rabbi Rachel Schwartz 7:00pm All classes at noon at Kesher Zion Synagogue Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom Jewish Potpourri 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing Feb. 3 — Judaism and the environment Feb. 10 — The Temple Mount, the Western Wall and Please join us as we celebrate Shabbat with Robinson’s Arch Feb. 17 — Women and Men and Mitzvot Rabbi Brian Michelson and student Cantor Feb. 24 — Jewish views on assisted suicide Jordan Shaner as they lead a special service All are welcome to join. featuring the musical talents of our Please rsvp at [email protected] congregants. or call 610-374-1763 Members and Non-­‐members are welcome

February 2015 SHALOM Page 7 No matter what you call it, stuffed cabbage is delicious

By Rochel Leah Goldblatt the cabbage at least two days before In France they call it Chou Farci. cooking and then let defrost). It’s Golubtsy in Russia and Charuto de From there, she demonstrated how Repolho in Brazil. You can order some to make the stuffing, using meat, raw Lahana Dolmosi in Turkey and some rice, an egg and spices. Bai Cai Juan in China. The sauce was ready-made, since In English, it’s called stuffed stuffed cabbage takes about two hours cabbage, and for about two dozen on low heat to cook, so each lady ladled women in Berks County, it’s simply out a bowl of sauce to complete the called a delicious new recipe. dish at home. The women learned how to make From there it was a matter of the international dish Jan. 11 during rolling the stuffing into the leaves and the Chabad Center of Berks County’s discussing how to get the best shape second kosher cooking class led by out of the cabbage. Chana Lipsker, an accomplished Lipsker entertained with anecdotes cook. about her own stuffed cabbage When the women arrived, they were experiences. greeted by the tantalizing smell of When all was said and done and ready-made stuffed cabbage as they everything was ready to go, Lipsker took their seats before a tray filled with treated the women to delicious stuffed cabbage leaves, a bowl with raw meat cabbage that she had prepared prior and rice, and a recipe card. to the class. After the participants settled in, a Ella Polonoski was the lucky winner hush went over the room as Lipsker of the door prize, a very fancy wine- pulled out a full head of cabbage and bottle opener. spend some time bonding with each place Feb. 1 at Chabad. Don’t miss out demonstrated how to get the leaves Overall, all the women had fun, other. on learning how to make chicken soup off in the easiest manner (hint: freeze learned a new dish and were able to The next cooking class will take with multi-colored matzo balls. New history book recounts 150 years of Oheb Sholom history

By Mike Pardo RCOS member Jack Gernsheimer of In 2014, Reform Congregation Oheb Partners Design had already created Sholom celebrated its 150th anniversary a 150-year logo to help promote our as a Jewish congregation in the Reading Temple’s year-long anniversary events. area. To commemorate this important This logo incorporated the number “150” milestone, I volunteered to design and with a stylized rendition of our building’s edit a 208-page, hardcover book detailing historic stained glass windows. Our the complete 150-year history of “The windows (which were created for the Temple.” It was a labor of love, to be sure, Perkiomen Avenue building and were then but a daunting task. removed and installed into our present Fortunately for me, the hardest part Wyomissing facility) became the perfect of the project was already done! Past visual symbol of our congregation’s long RCOS president Dr. Ellis Friedman history and our continued presence in the wrote an article for the Spring 1964 issue Reading area. In addition to featuring the of Historical Review of Berks County anniversary logo on the book cover and entitled “History of Reform Congregation all the chapter leads, the “window icon” Oheb Sholom: 1864–1964.” This was used as a graphic devise on the page comprehensive piece was reprinted numbers and the section intros, as well. in RCOS’ 100th anniversary booklet, With the book outline firmly established updated for its 125th anniversary booklet, and a design format in place, the actual and updated again for the 2000 dedication page layouts went fairly smoothly. The of our Temple’s Wyomissing building. pictures tended to “tell me” the proper way With Ellis’ research as a solid foundation to arrange them on the page. However, upon which to build, I felt confident that as new photographs and illustrations we could create a memorable and lasting became available, layouts had to be tribute to our Temple. revised. Chapter One, in fact, was redone “Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom: more than a dozen times before I was 150-Year Illustrated History” is crammed finally satisfied with the results! with more than 350 photos depicting all Even though the book was scheduled aspects of our Temple’s existence—from to be delivered to the printer on Oct. 15, the founders who established this religious I was still adding new stories and photo institution and all those who followed in features WAY PAST our original editorial their footsteps, the construction of two deadline. major Temple buildings in the Reading For example, at a Friday night Temple area, and all other parts of life at RCOS. service on Sept. 5, 15-year-old RCOS The book details how we celebrate Jewish member Alexa Chronister gave an exciting Mike Pardo holidays and how we travel through the talk about her month-long summer sweet card in the mail that said, “I saw Book available to purchase Jewish Cycle of Life — baby namings, program working with underprivileged a copy of the RCOS 150th Anniversary The Temple still has copies of the Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and weddings. children with the Urban Mitzvah Corp in Book. All I can say is WOW!! You did book available for purchase. You don’t It also spotlights our religious school New Brunswick, N.J.. I was so inspired an amazing job. Thanks so much for have to be a Temple member to buy a students and details our congregation’s by her speech that I asked her if she spending so much time to ensure future book. You don’t even have to be Jewish! long history of Tikkun Olam — “repairing would allow me to include it in our chapter generations will be able to share in the (Remember the old ads for Levy’s Rye the world” — through social action. on social action. Two days later, history history of RCOS.” Bread?) Once the editorial content was was made when Rabbi Brian Michelson I want to emphasize that I could Books are available at the Oheb selected and the book outline officiated at Oheb Sholom’s first same- not have successfully completed this Sholom office and may be purchased approved, I had to begin the arduous sex wedding — an occasion that was huge project without the help of a lot of for $25 a copy. The synagogue office job of selecting the images to tell the captured for our chapter on Jewish Life very dedicated Temple members who can be reached at 610-375-6034. story of our congregation. Many weeks Cycles. shared their family photos and personal Quantities are limited, and the book will were spent going through boxes and And on Saturday morning, Oct. 11, anecdotes to help tell the story of Oheb not be reprinted—the very definition of a boxes of old photos, documents and RCOS formally dedicated its new History Sholom. Special thanks go to RCOS “collector’s item.” newspaper clippings in the Temple Walls in the central rotunda. I was emailed president Michelle Mart who served as my I am honored that the Temple archives. I then visited the file cabinets the digital photos of the event that night, assistant editor and to Claudia Strauss Board entrusted me to spearhead of the Jewish Cultural Center of plopped them into the spots reserved for whose dedicated research helped correct this very special assignment. It Reading to see what goodies they had. them in the layout, and delivered the book errors and add valuable information to has been a wonderful journey of Finally, I made an impassioned plea files to the printer four days later! our history. I am also deeply indebted to discovery for me — one that has to the members of RCOS and begged After almost a year of hard work, the the Reading Eagle Company for allowing helped me appreciate my Jewish them to peruse their family albums and printed books were presented to the me unlimited access to their archives heritage and my Temple in new and lend me any photos that depicted life members of Oheb Sholom Dec. 19 at our in reprinting past articles concerning enlightening ways. at Oheb Sholom. Temple’s annual Hanukkah service and our congregation.Without the Eagle’s I hope this book instills similar Coming up with a design scheme dinner. The reviews so far have been very generosity, this book would not have feelings of pride in those people who for the book was my next big challenge. gratifying. One person sent me a very been possible. read it. Page 8 SHALOM February 2015 Israeli technology economy reaches new heights in 2014

Courtesy of Nocamels.com is more mature and diverse than that It’s safe to say that 2014 may have of many other countries. As the CEO been the best year yet for Israeli tech. of CyberArk, one of this year’s most From the largest number of Israeli successful cybersecurity companies Initial Public Offerings since the dot that also held an impressive IPO, Udi com boom, to the faith placed in Mokady summed it up, “Everybody Israel’s breakthrough cybersecurity understands that you buy Swiss and big data sectors by governments watches from Switzerland and and multinational companies, this was information security from Israel.” a year of unprecedented progress and Wearable technology: Connecting earnings for the Startup Nation. wearable devices to the Internet In 2014, Israel still boasts the is a booming sector still only in its largest concentration of startups per- infancy, and Israel is making some head in the world, with almost 1,000 important contributions. Companies new firms launched every year. such as Omek, creating gesture And, according to Deloitte, recognition software and acquired by international investors place nearly as software-giant Intel for $40 million, much faith in their Israeli investments and LifeBEAM, connecting helmets as they do in their American and hats to the Internet to track your counterparts, a notable achievement workout progress, are changing the for an economy 301 times smaller way inventors worldwide think about than the U.S. wearable technology. Others, such PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as OrCam, are innovating with a partner Rubi Suliman, like many social cause, bringing the first smart industry experts, believes Israeli glasses that can identify objects for tech reached a new peak in 2014: the visually impaired to the market. “The stars seemed to be aligned Other sectors: Israel also just perfectly this year for the local reached unprecedented heights in industry, and brought about such other sectors this year, including big unprecedented success.” data analytics, with companies such The hard numbers: as SiSense and BigPanda leading a • According to PwC, the year lucrative industry that has taken on saw a total of 70 exits and IPOs worth the task of storing all of our online approx. $15 billion. This is despite the data. Israel is also behind some major fact that one of the biggest acquisition innovations in online marketing, with in Israel’s history, the sale of Waze to companies such as Outbrain and Google for $966 million, occurred in compared to $1.2 billion in 2013. investment, compared to just 2.2 over Taboola thinking up creative new ways the previous year. Mobileye, the world leader in car- the same time period in Europe. to promote content on the Internet. • By September, the famed collision avoidance systems, was the • The number of jobs in Israeli Finally, ‘FinTech’ (Financial Tech), a 100 club (Israeli companies worth real star on this front, raising $890 high tech went up by 3.2 percent in sector breaking down the barriers of more than $100 million) had already million. 2014, compared to to 1.5 percent in the internet economy, is starting to garnered a combined revenue of $3.6 • Israeli startups were acquired 2013, according to Ethosia human welcome some major players in Israel, billion, according to data by TheTime. at a faster pace than ever, within an resources. with companies such as BillGuard and In addition, 15 companies reached the average of 3.95 years, according to • According to financial FeeX helping to reduce fraud, ease $100 million mark in 2014, compared Dow Jones VentureSource. This is advisory firm Deloitte, global investor payment processes and save users with six in 2013. compared with a period of 5.5 years confidence levels waned over Brazil money. • Eighteen Israeli companies before acquisition last year and 8.59 and China, while Canada, Israel and Some words of caution went public this year (13 in the U.S. years in 2009. In addition, investors the UK showed increased investor Despite the stellar startup activity in and five in the UK), raising a total in Israeli startups that were acquired confidence levels. According to the Israel, a number of serious challenges of $9.8 billion in their offerings, saw a 6.2 times return on their overall confidence levels of venture to the country’s ‘Startup Nation’ title capital investors, Israel was second remain. For one, there are still not only to the U.S. in venture capital enough jobs being created for the confidence. country’s growing population. This is “Commit Yourself to Lifelong • The year saw the largest-ever due in part to the lack of big companies foreign investment in Israeli tech, with that contribute to Israel’s native Learning. The Most Valuable Intel injecting nearly $6 billion into stock exchange, the TASE. Many upgrading its Kiryat Gat chip plant and multinational companies come to Asset You’ll Ever Have is Your promising to spend up to $550 million Israel to get the best of its brainpower in the Israeli economy in the next five (Intel, Microsoft and Google) while Mind and What You Put Into It.” years. many large Israeli companies, The leading sectors: lsuch as Teva Pharmaceuticals and – Brian Tracy Automotive: Though Israel doesn’t CheckPoint, choose to move their have its own auto industry, it excels business abroad. Despite the large in automobile technology. The most number of startups, many still decide notable achievement this year goes to exit early or go public overseas, to the inventors of the collision alert lowering their real value for the Israeli Our residents agree. That’s why we’re proud to announce that system Mobileye, used by major economy as well as threatening the The Highlands has started an exciting new partnership with automotive brands such as General longevity of the Israeli high tech Alvernia that allows our residents to attend free Seniors College Motors and Honda. It issued the sector. largest IPO in Israel’s history, raising Data collected by Dow Jones courses at the University. And for those who don’t want to travel, $890 million at a company valuation VentureSource suggests Israeli select courses are offered on The Highlands’ campus! of $7.5 billion. Now other leading startups still decide to exit quickly automotive brands such as BMW, because of the impressive acquisition Lifelong Learning . . . Fiat, and Toyota are turning to Israel offers they are able to attract. to develop cutting-edge auto parts and Analyzing data from eight companies It’s just one more way The Highlands is redefining retirement living! cool technology to deck out their latest acquired during the third quarter of models. Another up-and-coming Israeli 2014, it was found that companies company, Argus Cyber Security, is were acquired within 3.95 years after taking two industries Israel excels in — raising a median of $5.5 million in automotive and cybersecurity — and total. It may be easy to understand why combining them into one, providing these companies favored acquisition, protection against attacks on the web- with the acquisition median amount connected cars of the future. totaling $34.10 million, meaning that Mobileye’s technology warns the investors saw a 6.2 times return driver before an imminent collision. on their investments in companies Cybersecurity: As companies and acquired this year. Add this to the governments shift the bulk of their fact that most venture capital goes to Call today to learn more! data online, their information becomes young startups (80 percent of venture 610-775-2300 • www.thehighlands.org more vulnerable to cyber attacks (the capital funds in comparison to 52 2000 Cambridge Ave • Wyomissing, PA recent attack on Sony is just one of similar funds in the U.S.), it’s no example). Israel has long been at wonder that the infamous Israeli exit has yet to go out of style, for better A member of Reading Health System the forefront of defense technologies, which is why its cybersecurity industry or worse. February 2015 SHALOM Page 9 Youth News It’s a wrap! BBYO gives back with holiday fundraising activity By Chase Weizer not knowing anything about gift- Part of Berks Chai BBYO’s mission wrapping to expertly helping the is to give back to the community. We community with our newly found decided to return the favor during skills. We wrapped gifts ranging the holidays by gift-wrapping in the from American Eagle clothing to Berkshire Mall. oddly-shaped Thomas the Train All profits made were donated packages. to The Children’s Home of Reading This Christmas, the children and go toward providing foster of Reading were able to enjoy care, adoption services, and waking up on Christmas morning academic programs to children and opening their gifts thanks not and families. only to the many volunteers that Gift-wrapping proved to be a signed up to gift wrap, but also wonderful way to enjoy ourselves the community for giving us their while helping out the less fortunate presents to wrap as well as their indirectly. Most of us also went from multiple donations. Teens bring Hanukkah joy to Highlands at December event By Megan McIntosh to play driedel. One was from Munich, The Berks Chai BBYO Chapter Germany, and the other one said her sponsored a Hanukkah event at parents came to America from Ireland. The Highlands of Wyomissing on I really enjoyed spending time with Dec. 14. The teens made latkes and these ladies. It was a lot of fun, they played dreidel with the residents were telling me stories and we were while listening to Hanukkah songs. making jokes. We made the batter right at the table Our chapter plans to do more using only a few ingredients: shredded activities with the residents at the potatoes, onions, flour, eggs, salt and Highlands. Thank you to Janine Ure, pepper. The residents helped us BBYO Advisor, and Kathy Marabella, measure and mix the ingredients. Activity Coordinator at The Highlands There were about a dozen ladies in for helping us plan this activity. Our attendance, and not all were Jewish. chapter donated a menorah for the I taught two non-Jewish women how residents to enjoy.

Making memories with Matisyahu By JoJo Ure On the last night of Hanukkah Berks Chai BBYO experienced a “true miracle” and saw Matisyahu in concert! Thanks to support from the Federation, Rubin Family Educational Fund and Jayne Kleinman, Reading teens headed off to Philadelphia in a comfy bus and had an amazing time. Before the concert we met in the JCC, had some pizza, and lit the menorah! Matisyahu is a Jewish-American rapper and singer. His songs are really popular in BBYO especially Liberty Region. We always sing his song “One Day” during Havdalah, so it was extra special to see him perform it live. The best moment of the night was when Matisyahu lit a giant menorah on stage as he sung the prayers and his song Aish Tamid, eternal flame. It was like nothing I’ve experienced, and being with my Reading Jewish friends made it a moment I will never forget. At the end of the concert Matisyahu invited the crowd on stage to sing his last song! I had such a good time with all my friends and want to thank the Federation for supporting BBYO and helping us make this memory! Lighting the menorah before heading out to see Matisyahu.

Want to learn more about Jewish youth groups? For BBYO, contact Janine Ure via the Jewish Federation, 610-921-0624. For National Federation of Temple Youth, contact Scott Stein via Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, 610-375-6034 Page 10 SHALOM February 2015 A love story

By Anne Seltzer Every Friday night they attended He was madly services at their Temple. They were in love with her. He both very involved there. was her whole life. As they got older and the typical They met on a blind ailments popped up, they were truly date. Both were in there for each other. When my dad their early 30s, a time had a stroke, my mom seemed to when most people of slip away too. It became difficult for their era were already her to get around, which had not married with children. been a problem up until that point. They married and lived blissfully We were concerned about leaving together for 41 years. He proposed her alone. She was unbelievably to her, saying “the weather is going lonely when he passed away. He to get really bad this winter and I was her entire life. Mom really tried. don’t want to keep driving over the It was no surprise, though it was a mountain, so I want to take you back shock, when she passed away a with me.” Or something to that effect. year and a half later. Always respectful, I never heard them Since they both liked chocolate, utter an unkind word to each other. He especially mom, this is for her. Mom, really kissed her when he came home I hope you are having it every day from work every night. They were my wherever you are. parents, Betty and Leonard Pariser. For some reason I have been thinking about them a lot more lately. Perhaps Triple Chocolate Cupcakes Gardening with Vicky it is because Matt just got married, or 6 oz. bittersweet chocolate, because this month would be their 59th coarsely chopped anniversary. Seeds vs. seedlings It is true that my parents did not ½ c. granulated sugar Don’t have a vegetable garden? meet until they were 34 and 35. By Vicky Sokoloff 2 oz. unsweetened chocolate, Now that you have narrowed No problem. Why not add some They married, and the next year I coarsely chopped your choices for next spring’s attractive varieties of leaf lettuce came along, and three years later my garden, you have to decide if you to your annual border, tuck some brother, David. ¼ c. packed light brown sugar want to start seeds or purchase turnips around the tulips, or let Mom and Dad were excellent 2 tsp. instant espresso powder seedlings. Annuals that need a cucumbers grow up your trellis. examples of how to be a spouse. As 2 eggs long growing season (marigolds, If you are planning your first was typical of that generation, they ¼ c. plus 2 T. flour petunias, tomatoes, eggplant, garden, start small so you are had clearly defined roles. Dad was 2 tsp. vanilla Page  peppers) have to be started indoors not overwhelmedby March work or 2010 by the breadwinner, and Mom took care ¼ tsp. baking powder Shalom six to eight weeks before last frost having more produce than you of us and the house. But Dad read 1 c. toasted pecans, (typically May 15). If you don’t have can use. If you have a vegetable us bedtime stories and was totally coarsely chopped space for this, the decision is easy. garden, remember the importance present when he was home. I’m quite Community News Why would you consider starting of rotating crops within that garden certain he did diapers and bottles, ¼ tsp. fine salt your own seeds? The major reason space. It’s especially important to too. Saturday night was date night for ½ c. semisweet chocolate chips isObituaries that there are far more varieties avoid planting a nightshade crop them. We always had a babysitter. ¾ stick (6 T.) unsalted butter, available as seed than you will find where there was one the previous They rarely went out with others, slightly softened as seedlingsLucy Suzanne at the localKnoblauch garden L.year (Sulman) in order Moyer. to He minimize is also survived disease seeming to prefer each other’s ½ c. white chocolate chips centers.Zeidman , 96, Wyomissing. byand his insect daughters, problems. Aileen For D., that widow same company to anyone else. She taught SomeSurviving vegetables are a son,can beBruce started F., ofreason, Neal H. alwaysEndy, of removePennside, plants and E. at him that not all chicken tasted bad. He Melt bittersweet and unsweetened indoors,husband of planted Geraldine directly L. Zeidman, in the of Roxanne,the end ofwife the of Lesgrowing Walker, season. of Batavia Do was never able to teach her to drive. chocolate and espresso together until garden,Shillington; or purchaseda brother, Harry as seedlings.Knoblauch, Ohio;not dig sons, them Stan inB. ,or husband put them of Kristine in the Every Sunday my grandfather smooth. Sift together flour, baking Thesehusband include of Edith cucumbers,Knoblauch, of Reading;melons K.compost. Moyer, of Sinking Spring and Jay would take the bus from Morgantown, powder and salt. Set aside. Beat anda sister, squash. Ruth BalisMy choice of Wyomissing; is to plant and H., Whenhusband thinking of Margaret about R. Moyer,tomatoes, of W.Va., to Uniontown to visit. Though butter and sugars in a mixer until light seedsseveral directly nieces inand the nephews. garden in early Muhlenbergthere are a Township. few major Other types: survivors cherry/ I’m sure my dad would have liked a and fluffy, about 2 min. Add eggs one June. While they ---get a slightly later aregrape, grandchildren: plum, andBrett A. large Endy, slicing Chad Sunday to vedge or to just spend with at a time, then vanilla. Beat on high startIrene than S. seedlings,Zeidman, 62, they Wyomissing. will not M.tomatoes. Endy and I Elizabeth like to haveK. Moyer; a few and of my mom and us, he never seemed 1 min. On low speed beat in melted needShe is to survived readjust by her to abrother new homeBruce great-grandchildren,each. Sungold is Carson a great N., Logan cherry to complain. He’d pick Pop up at the chocolate. Fold in flour mixture with a Images from andF., husbandwill therefore of Geraldine grow L.faster Zeidman and C.,tomato. Ardyn N. and Ava L. Endy bus and take him back in the evening. rubber spatula until combined. Stir in beof aShillington. bit hardier. By using seed you Another term--- you will see is I don’t really recall them doing pecans and chips. Refrigerate until Yemin Orde have still have more --- choices than determinate/indeterminate.Shirley Robinson of B’nai B’rith That things separately, besides dad going just firm, about 30 min. Area resident and recent college you Robertwould Bergerhave buying, 54, Reading. seedlings. Apartments.has to do with Survived how large by her the Friendship plant will to work and meetings, and mom Scoop T. onto parchment-lined graduate Jessica Flamholz sent us It allowsHe was you the former start aspouse few plantsof Lea Circleget. One friends. of the great debates among getting her hair done and going to pans. Bake at 350° for about 10- these pictures from her recent visit everyBerger, two Reading. weeks toHe keep is survived the plants by gardeners is whether --- or not to prune meetings. Because mom didn’t drive, 11 min. The surface will be dry and to Yemin Orde, an Israeli village growingtwo daughters, strong Mollyover aR. longer Berger, period State foliage. Louis Some Malamud people, 95, love formerly seeing she had to depend on him to take shiny but the tops and insides will for children and youth supported ofCollege, time. You and can Bethany also plantS. Berger, a few ofhuge Temple. plants. He Iis normallysurvived by do a pruneson, her grocery shopping or to the mall. still be soft. Enjoy! by our Federation. extraReading; seeds and one and brother, thin to Dr. the Barry best M. Mitchel,foliage sohusband the plant of Laura will concentrate Malamud, plants.Berger, husband of Kathleen A. Vieweg, ofits Las energy, Vegas; producing grandchildren fruit Barry rather Boston,How muchMass. space do you need husbandthan more of Johna leaves. Malamud, Another Deborah matter for a vegetable--- garden? That Babbit-Malamudof preference is and hybrids Sheri vs Malamud; heirloom All Around the Town______depends David on Moyer the , number85, Reading. and type and(open great-grandchildren: pollinated) varieties. Jessy Babbit, Again, By MazelJoan G.tov Friedman to Sari and John Incledon theBadal arrival, who of theirhas newreceived granddaughter the honor Ella of of vegetables He is survived you by want his wife,to grow, Marjorie the Carlyboth Malmud sides haveand Ian their Malamud. advocates. on theCongratulations birth of their grandson to Korey Ethan Blanck Henry Naomi,being chosen and to heras theparents, Child Beth Advocate Ann and of number of people you are feeding, Having a garden that frequently Staniland,and to Edith born toBlanck their daughter on the Rebeccabirth of Gadi.the Year for the State of Pennsylvania. and if you want to freeze or can gets more than an ideal amount of andtheir her new husband, granddaughter Paul, in Chicago and Jan.great- 6. We love good news*** about members of inPlan addition for to your eating Bar/Bat fresh. Things Mitzvah rainfall, &I opt W foredding hybrids Guests!with some granddaughter! *** our Bestcommunity! wishes Please to our share Berks it by emailingCounty such as corn and potatoes take a resistance to disease. Mazel tov to Al *** and Betsy Katz on [email protected] competing in the 2010 Maccabi lot of space. Radishes or turnips But what if your only outdoor Mazel Tov to the Bluestone Family: Games: can be tucked in amongShalom other plants spaceNewspaper is a patio or balcony? (Joan Does Friedman) To David and Marianna on their new Emily & Jared Baksic, swimming and require little or no additional that mean no fresh veggies for you? daughterREADERS’ and to grandparents MARKET Eric and Andrew Blickle, basketball room. Stick to things you and your Absolutely not. If you have enough5” (2 col.) x 7” Marissa. Matthew Eisenberg, swimming By Joan G. Friedman family enjoy. sun and room for some pots, you Questions? *** Hannah and Alexis Glassmire, “Clouds Across the Sun” by Ellen Light is a crucial factor. Veggies canContact grow vegetables. Jodi Gibble, A great Marketing source Director Congratulations to Charles and swimming Brazer (353 pgs, $14.95, available such as cucumbers, eggplant, of information on that subject Brenda Diamond on the engagement Brandon Missan, soccer The Highlands at Wyomissing online at Amazon and other sites) peppers,READING tomatoes and squash is Edward C Smith’s book The of their son Brett and to grandfather Al This bestselling author takes you into a need at2801 least Papermill six hoursRoad of sun. You2000 Vegetable Cambridge Gardener’s Ave., Wyomissing, Container PA 1910 Diamond. Nazi plot to overtake the U.S. government. mightWyomissing, get by Pennsylvania on four to six hours Bible (Storey Press, $19.95) He *** 10-288-3405 Set in New York, Washington, Israel, Until next time: Shalom! with beans, broccoli, cabbage, has information on the wide variety Mazel Tov to Rosalind Hyman and [Email all your simcha news to joan@ GROUP RATES AVAILABLE Russia, and Vilna, you will follow the life carrot, leek/onion, turnip. Leaf of plants that can be grown in pots. her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman friedman.net] lettuce and spinach will be ok with The detailed information addresses of a young woman with a Nazi father and, Call Alice for a Site Tour unbeknownst to her, a Jewish mother. as little as two to four hours. I pot selection and preparation, types She finds herselfKEEP drawn UP to WITH Judaism THE in a COMMUNITY usually plant spinach in a planter of soil/fertilizer, plant varieties and story of discovery, redemption, intrigue and box(610) on the 736-2082 porch, since✦ I www.reading.homewoodsuites.comcan get to combinations. romance.Visit Filled with www.readingjewishcommunity.org passion and hope, it is it before the garden has warmed up With no other options, try a pot of the kind of book you can’t put down. This and dried out enough for planting. herbs on a sunny windowsill. Farm very enjoyable work of historical fiction is It also keeps the spinach from to table doesn’t get any better than the perfect gift for everyone! boltingII if wehadhad get an early hot spell.nono homegrown. 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 +++++ PageFebruary  2015 SHALOMShalom PageMay 2010 11 JewishJewish Family Family ServiceService CarA different donation helpsapproach sustain to JFS caregiving programs

By Sari Incledon,Incledon M. Ed. JFSown (and Brooklyn get a apartmenttax donation until at the age same 93, Simonwhat toand do VeeVee when Scott. they wereWe could no not longer run Pesadichtreatment desserts. because Thanks of their to Jeff fears. Bornstein Roz ThankRoz Chast’syou to Dave time)when calltheir me declining at 610-921-0624 health forced or go their to theable food to bank live without independently. them. When a andprobably Corinne would Wernick have for their benefited assistance from in Walkergraphic for memoir,participating www.charitableautoresources.com.only child, Roz, to take charge and move crisisOn arose,April 2 theirJFS sponsored daughter wasa Seder forced at servingattending the meal. family Generous caregiver contributions sessions in“Can’t our car we donation talk themEach from month their our home food of bank 50 servesyears tomore an theto makeManor all at theMarket decisions Square. because The Manor’s her madefrom thein memory Alzheimer’s of Natalie Association, Adelglass and by Page  program.about something The proceeds andassisted more living people. facility (In closeMarchMarch to we her served home 2010 residentsparents were were never joined willing by toresidents engage ofin familya geriatric and friends case underwrote manager the would Seder. have Shalomfrommore hisPLEASANT?” auctioned car 182in Connecticut. people in 62 She households). recalls the emotionalWe could Providencediscussions Housethat involved and Friendship serious issues. Circle helpedFinally, all thanks three to of the them. bakers Families of the willis a help must-read support for our notroller provide coaster this ride important caregiving service was forwithout her. seniors.Families Boscov’s can’t provided do a delicious everything meal, Kesherand their Zion needs religious are school complex, and andTemple the programs.anyone If caring you would dedicatedWhile brutally volunteers. honest Thankabout youthe family’sto long- enjoyedthemselves. by all. There A big arethank professionals you to baker Ohebcomplexity Sholom’s is sisterhood compounded for providing when the us Jewish Familylikeabout to learnor forService more elderly about timedysfunctional volunteers dynamics, Karen Sherman she is and absolutely Norman extraordinaireof all kinds Sheila who Bornstein can help. for furnishing Roz’s withcaregiver hamentashen doesn’t livethat nearby.were distributed “Can’t we to thisparents. easy way Chast’s to help Wilikofskyhilarious in and this to touching our new account, volunteers which Jan participantsfriend recommended with a vast array usingof gourmet an seniorstalk about in somethinglong term care more residences. PLEASANT?” Discussion of addiction importantcartoons to all have combines drawings, family photos and elderly care lawyer, and her parents’ tells a serious story in an entertaining appeared in the documents chroniclingLiving a very trying time with uncharacteristically Loss agreed to meet way. I highly recommend it. New Yorker since in the family’s life. I recommend it not only him and complete wills and powers of If eldercare issues are a concern By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. will not be limited to issues dealing with Others) provided the following statistics. For every person who has a 1978. This, her 14th and most personal because it is fun — but there are definitely attorney. Having their affairs in order was to you now or if you are interested in We invite the entire adolescents. Drug and alcohol abuse is According to Dr. Jay Holder, Medical substanceMondays, abuse problem, May several 10 and 24, 3:00- 4:30 p.m. book, received the honor of being one lessons here for both generations – the a great help as their health declined and help planning for the future, please community to attend a a problem for all age groups, and we all Director and founder of the Exodus others are affected. Those affected of the New York Times 10 best books boomers and their elderly parents. their daughter got involved. Unfortunately call Jewish Family Service at 610-921- program Jewish Family need to know more about it. Treatment Center in Miami, chemical may beFor spouses, more parents,information children, call Sari at 610-921-0624 for 2014. The book’s title hints at the first lesson Elizabeth Chast had a strong aversion 0624. Carole Robinson and I are very Service is sponsoring: In a recent article, “Overcoming dependency is the number one secret siblings, grandparents – all are hurt In her book Chast chronicles her — the need to talk about difficult topics. to doctors and hospitals, and that was familiar with our local resources and “What Every Family Denial” (Na’amat Woman Winter 2009/10) in the Jewish community. Reportedly, in different ways. What can we as a parents’ final years. George and The parents were not willing to talk about not helpful. Both parents did not avail are happy to share our knowledge and Needs to Know about Barbara Trainin Blank wrote: “Alcohol and up to 50 percent of patient populations communal organization do to address Elizabeth lived independently in their their declining health, their finances and themselves of appropriate medical experience with you. Alcohol and Drug chemical dependency don’t discriminate, in some residential treatment centers the problem? Awareness is an important What happens after 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 Food pantry Interactive Dialogue women as much as men. Addiction calling nationalDid drug you hot know lines the (yet Hampton Jews communityInn Wyomissing to share is newly questions and with David Rotenberg.” and alcoholism can be found in every comprise lessrenovated? than 3 percent It’s oftrue, the whenU.S. yourconcerns family comesat our to abovetown, mentioned a hospital stay? plays valuable role This program will be held Wednesday, socioeconomic and religious segment of population). Chemical dependency is the program on April 28. April 28 at 7 p.m. at the JCC. the Jewish community”. third leading killerwhy incrowd the U.S. your It home?is also Wean have Oura heated program indoor pool,is free, though Join us for this informative seminar presentedVolunteers by finish setting up David is the executive director of An article on the JACS Web unreportedcomplimentary and/or unknown hot breakfast,contributor andreservations a good night’s are sleeprequested. on our For more the Jewish Family Service Adolescent Youth Services at Caron site (Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically to deaths causedfamous by Cloud car accidents, 9 bed. Did heart you information,also know that callwe washSari ourat 610-921- food pantry at Kesher Zion Foundation, however his presentation Dependent Persons and Significant attacks, suicides and strokes. 0624. Synagogue. Please bring comforters and pillows with every stay? Wouldn’t you want Thursday, donationsMay 20 •of 11:30 canned am tuna, BERKS ENCORE PROVIDES FREE TAX PREPARATION yourVolunteer loved ones here Opportunities with us instead of worrying Available where you’ll– at Manorsoup, fruitsat Market and vegetablesSquare FROM TRAINED VOLUNTEERS Jewish Family Service seeks volunteers to help our seniors to Kesher Zion or the JCC. findwith room? grocery With shoppingthe Hampton’s and other100% errands. guarantee Some patientsWe also require need plasticadditional and care after their hospital discharge. Was your household income less than $50,000 in 2009? If you have some time,you call can’t Sari go orwrong. Carole at 610-921-0624. paper grocery bags, Planning ahead will make Household income may be higher in some cases, Hampton Inn Wyomissing things easier for you after you leave. but call 610-374-3195 for more details. 1800 PapermillJewish Family Road, Wyomissing, Service thanks PA 19560 Learn about the services available Call today to schedule an appointment from now until April 15. Dr. Jeffrey610-374-8100 Blank D.D.S. for you or a loved one! Please RSVP by calling 610-373-0800. Berks Encore, 40 N. Ninth St., 610-374-3195 for providing professional services to our client.

Enjoy Tax Benefits While Contributing to BERKS ENCORE RECEIVES AWARDS Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program Living with Loss Congratulations to Berks Encore employees Carolyn Krebs  and Martha Sitler for receiving one of the Social Security  FREE parkingMondays, in Feb. 9INDEPENDENT and 23, AND ASSISTED LIVING Administrations highest awards for their providing the public with Call Sari at 610-921-0624, the Berks Encore Call Sari at parking lot 3 - 4:30 p.m.Meals • Housekeepingat the JCC • Activities • Transportation information covering Social Security issues. e-mail [email protected] located at 9th All-Inclusive Monthly Rent • No Buy-ins Forand more Court Street. information, call Sari at 610-921-0624 610-921-0624or go to Berks Encore enables older adults to achieve a better quality of 803 Penn Street • Reading, PA 19601 www.charitableautoresources.com 2347_Shalom_update:Layout 1 3/30/10 12:21 PM Page 1 life by providing a comprehensive program of services, referrals, or email www.manoratmarketsquare.com • 610-373-0800 education and advocacy. For more information call Berks Encore [email protected] at 610-374-3195 or visit them at www.Berksencorepa.org Af finityBankPA.com  Living with Loss  The Benefit Bank A Jewishformerly Family Bereavement Service GroupProgram  FindMondays, out your eligibility March  and and apply 22, 3:00- for benefits 4:30 p.m. online Banking 2131_Shalom_ad:LayoutFor morewith a information1counselor 9/8/09 11:57 AM in Pagecalla confidential 1 Sari at 610-921-0624 setting. Food Stamps Medical Benefits the Way It Cash AssistanceA f f i n i t y B a n k PLIHEAPA . c o m and more Found in the heart of To find out if TBB can help you, downtown Reading, you’ll call Sari or Carole at 610-921-0624 Shouldbe surprised B toe find. this gem offers  Affordable, All-inclusive Senior Living with No Buy-in Fees Daily Activities with Opportunities to Socialize and Make New Friends  Banking the Way Did You Know Beautiful Community with Elegant Surroundings Compassionate Staff available 24 hours a day Jewish Family Service: Delicious and Healthy Meals It Should Be. Call 610-373-0800 today to schedule a tour •offers discounted taxi transportation See why so many seniors are choosing Manor at Market Square as their new home! to seniorsN oandw theop edisabled?n in Exeter. MOVE-IN PROMO Move in by March 31, 2015 and •has a monthly need-based food pantry? SAVE UP TO $10,000! Products that LIMITED AVAILABILITYWYOMISSING | READING Schedule a Tour and Get a •offers counselingmake andsens einformation, $50SIN GIFTKING CARD SPRING | MUHLENBERG | EXETER 803 Penn Street, Reading, PA 19601 service t hat and referral services?makes friends. 61www.manoratms.com0.898.7700 • 610-373-0800

WYOMISSING | READING SINKING SPRING | MUHLENBERG | EXETER

610.898.7700 Page 12 SHALOM February 2015 Gratz JCHS News Growing your own Etrog tree to celebrate Tu B’Shevat By Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner Branch Director, Gratz JCHS The students of the Gratz JCHS will have a short lesson in agriculture when we celebrate the holiday of Tu B’Shevat, occurring this year on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015. Tu B’Shevat is the Israeli Arbor Day. Each student will plant an Etrog tree (Citrus medica L.) Rabbi Dov has saved etrog fruits for this project from his family’s celebration of Sukkot in the fall, and it will be his third attempt to plant trees.(The first was a learning experience; the second consisted of giving away trees that succeeded, although his were killed with an early frost out of doors.) One tree was given to the JCC a year ago and it looked fine when last seen! Why the Etrog? It is an appropriate fruit tree to learn about for the Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shevat, also Our Federation’s Etrog tree remembered as the New Year of Trees. The name is derived from the Hebrew Growing Your Etrog Citron גורתא date of the holiday, which occurs on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of www.keithbrooks.com/caring.html Shevat. “Tu” stands for the Hebrew This is some basic information lettersTet and Vav, which together have about growing and caring for your the numerical value of 9 and 6, adding tree. Please be aware that agricultural up to 15. Halachot must be considered when you In previous years, the Gratz students transplant or repot the tree. celebrated Tu B’Shevat with a short The following tips relate to the history of the first seven fruits of Israel maintenance of an Etrog tree as and the course of bringing new fruits to a potted plant or tree. Like other Israel, a literal footpath between Africa, citrus varieties, Etrog trees are VERY Europe and Asia. Then we created susceptible to cold while young and Celebrating Tu B’Shevat at Gratz JCHS in 2014. smoothies with recipes based on an should only be planted in the ground historical period — a Second Temple in suitable climates. may grow up to 10 feet like this. You they will produce fruit without having smoothie, a Medieval smoothie — all Location: Keep warm during winter can also prune them. Note the Laws another tree nearby. delicious and appreciated as a special or any time low temperatures in the 40’s of Orlah regarding replanting — check Citrus trees require a period of snack for our break. or lower are expected. Either keep the with your Rabbi. cold weather in order to induce flower We’ve also distributed carob fruits, plant indoors in a warm place that has Potting soil and fertilizer: Use budding. For most citrus trees, it also known as St. John’s Bread or in light or protect it from the cold on the regular good quality potting soil and takes about four to six weeks in Yiddish “boksor.” outside through a cover or some other commercial fertilizer (Miracle-Gro or the 50 to 68 degree range to get Perhaps next year we can learn protective shielding. Natural sunlight citrus soil). reasonable flowering. Be very careful about scarification and plant boksor is best, but you can use artificial light. Watering: Do not overwater your if temperatures drop below 40 degrees trees — which Rabbi Dov has also In spring, move your tree outside, Etrog tree. If you will keep the tree for more than two weeks. planted successfully in the past. gradually from a shaded to a more indoors, water the tree once or twice If the trees bear fruit: Etrog trees Some Jews pickle or candy the sunny location. The trees should not a week. If the tree will be outdoors, should bear fruit within four to seven etrog (citron) from Sukkot and eat it be in a position where they will be in especially during the hot summer, three years (in theory, my tree took seven). on Tu B’Shevat, but we were warned the sun all day long as too much direct or more times a week may be required. If you want to use your Etrogim for against that several years ago for sunlight will burn them up while they In winter two to three times a week Succot then you must be sure there health reasons. Because for religious are young. Always protect your younger should suffice. are no defects in your fruit (that did purposes observant Jews search out trees from strong winds and storms. Insects and pests: As with any not come from the tree itself). You the most beautiful and “perfect” etrog, Container: Given light and nutrients fruit bearing tree, spider mites, scales, should have your Etrog checked by a the farmers use an especially large your Etrog tree will grow to the size caterpillars and other insects are competent rabbinical authority on these dose of insecticides that remain in the of the container in which it is placed. common. matters. Also please note the special fruit, making the cooking with or baking Once your tree has grown about 6 Spraying dishwashing detergent laws regarding Orlah and Neta Revai with the etrog potentially harmful. Be inches tall it may be transferred to a (about a teaspoonful in a spray bottle — check with your Rabbi. careful. 8-10” diameter planter. Make sure it or 2 tablespoons in a gallon of water) Safety: Citrus trees produce VERY We share with the community the has holes in the bottom for drainage. should keep the insects away. sharp thorns. Please be careful when information being given out to our students The largest pot for indoors I would use Pollination and flower buds: handling the tree, pruning it or if young collected and edited by Rabbi Dov. is 24” diameter. After several years they Citrus trees are self-fruitful, meaning children are present. February 2015 SHALOM Page 13

The “MY KIDS” Effort As a new effort in the 2014 Campaign, we gave parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles an opportunity to honor their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews by making gifts in their name to the Campaign. The following individuals were honored.

Person Honored By Relationship Lior S. Ages Al and Betsy Katz Grandparents Brandt Beck Ivan Gordon Grandfather Luke Berger Lee Berger Father Caroline Blum Susan and Mel Blum Grandparents Margot Blum Susan and Mel Blum Grandparents Abigail Cohn C. Harold Cohn Grandfather Tessa Cohn C. Harold Cohn Grandfather Elizabeth Goodman Debbie Goodman and John Moyer Grandparents Max Goodman Debbie Goodman and John Moyer Grandparents Violet Goodman Debbie Goodman and John Moyer Grandparents Calem Harris Jan and Jonathan Simon In-Laws Aidan Incledon Sari and John Incledon Grandparents Amy Incledon Sari and John Incledon Parents Rebecca Incledon Sari and John Incledon Parents Charlie Jacobs Susan and Mel Blum Grandparents Mia Jacobs Susan and Mel Blum Grandparents Mia Jacobs Marc Jacobs Uncle Marissa Jacobs Susan and Mel Blum Grandparents Marissa Jacobs Marc Jacobs Uncle Gabriel Meir Katz Al and Betsy Katz Grandparents Adam Leisawitz Ben and Michele Leisawitz Parents Leah Leisawitz Ben and Michele Leisawitz Parents Emily Levine Lisa and Allen Levine Parents Gabrielle Levine Lisa and Allen Levine Parents Andrew Mitgang Tammy and Jeff Mitgang Parents Liza Mitgang Tammy and Jeff Mitgang Parents David Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Parents Eli Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Grandparents Jonathan Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Parents Joshua Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Grandparents Leah Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Parents Lucy Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Grandparents Max Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Grandparents Talia Rotenberg Larry and Allison Rotenberg Grandparents Adin Schickler Scott & Kathy Schickler Parents Alex Schickler Scott & Kathy Schickler Parents Simon Seesengood Jennifer Koosed and Rob Seesengood Parents Sarah Simon Jan and Jonathan Simon Parents Zach Simon Jan and Jonathan Simon Parents Ari Spillerman Sidney and Cheryl Spillerman Grandparents Talia Spillerman Sidney and Cheryl Spillerman Grandparents Leah Staffeldt Frank and Judy Synnamon Grandparents Isaac Staffeldt Frank and Judy Synnamon Grandparents Paul Staniland Sari and John Incledon In-Laws Abigail Waxler Andy and Laurie Waxler Parents Emily Waxler Andy and Laurie Waxler Parents Eric Waxler Andy and Laurie Waxler Parents Harison Weiss Jack and Teri Lefkowith Grandparents Maxwell Weiss Jack and Teri Lefkowith Grandparents Samuel Weiss Jack and Teri Lefkowith Grandparents Anika Yadau Jim Rothstein and Sharon Scullin Grandparents Naomi Yadau Jim Rothstein and Sharon Scullin Grandparents Page 14 SHALOM February 2015 Project seeks to create Jewish equivalent to UNESCO, TripAdvisor By Jeffrey F. Barken travel website combine to describe a new faced rapid assimilation, resulting in a in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, home to the JNS.org interactive mobile app being launched by loss of shared history for the nation and colorful fresh produce that characterizes Standing between a display table full WJH, which is also rolling out an eBook the Jews calling it home. WJH, therefore, the Israeli diet. of touch-screen tablets and a colorful on Jewish and new Israeli cuisine titled is “attempting to promote tourism to a “The changing point [in the history spread of Israeli cuisine favorites, World “Israel’s Top 100 Ethnic Restaurants.” variety of sites and cultural events around of Israeli cuisine] was during the 1980s, Jewish Heritage Organization (WJH) On. Jan. 14 in New York, WJH hosted the world that are of great importance to when our kitchen became much richer,” founder Jack Gottlieb delivers a toast. a “Celebration of Jewish Ethnic Flavors” Jewish heritage continuity,” Gottlieb said. Hovav says. “Israelis like projects,” he says. “We to launch the eBook. The organization The goal is to encourage tourists to During the early days of the Jewish wanted to create a Jewish UNESCO sees a rapid global decline in what venture off the beaten path. state, a scarcity of ingredients hampered and Jewish TripAdvisor in a combined it calls a “Jewish voice.” That trend “Given the growing interest in food culinary creativity, and Israel’s humble application.” is marked by the disappearance or in Israel and around the world, and the settlers were simply thankful for whatever Gottlieb’s references to the United repurposing of cherished cultural sites fact that it can appeal to anyone, we they had to eat. But now, the doors are Nations Educational, Scientific and such as synagogues in countries where decided to start [this initiative],” Gottlieb wide open for experimentation, and Cultural Organization and the popular the Jewish population has decreased or said of the app and the eBook, which anything is possible. will work together to inform travelers “In two words: everything goes!” says Celebrating Hanukkah in the city about hidden treasures they might Hovav, describing the range of culinary otherwise miss. The app provides up- fusion taking place in Israel. “You [will] to-date information based on viewer see a combination of Arab, Russian, and location and is capable of generating Moroccan [cuisine] all on the same plate.” tours that highlight dining, museums, Despite access to the world’s and other culturally relevant sightseeing smorgasbord, Israelis aren’t likely to attractions. Did you discover something forget their past. Hovav is conscious unique on your own that’s not listed in of a popular throwback trend guiding the app’s database? Users can upload contemporary cooking in Israel. articles to the app’s server. “I think everybody [is] trying to become “This [new resource] is so special,” more ‘Israeli,’” he says, explaining that said Gil Hovav — a noted Israeli food Israelis are “going back to old ingredients critic, chef, and TV personality who that were used in harder times… trying wrote a foreword to the “Israel’s Top 100 to recreate something local, fresh and Ethnic Restaurants” eBook. “I’ve been modern.” in the restaurant business for 27 years. For example, Hovav describes a Israeli food is booming and in Tel Aviv salad made of the mallow plant (“hubeza” you can find everything. But this is about in Hebrew). the real people, where the soul is, where “This is what my family survived on the Jewish grandma serves you Kubbeh during [the siege of Jerusalem during the soup and says, ‘This time it really works!” 1948 War of Independence],” he said. Despite his admitted affection for Fittingly, new twists define the menu Reading City Councilwoman Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz, second from left, helps the community celebrate “posh restaurants” and his interest in at New York’s Balaboosta, scene of the Hannukah at the ceremonial menorah set up at Fifth and Penn streets in December. Each year the city of the worldly fusion of flavors influencing WJH eBook launch. Reading recognizes the Jewish community in its downtown holiday display. modern Israeli cooking, Hovav notes the “We’re making cauliflower fried unique respect that old-style cuisine still like Bamba,” said Einat Admony, the receives in Israel. restaurant’s owner and chef, referencing Save the Date Hungry tourists, he advised, should the popular peanut butter-flavored Israeli 2015 RCOS Supper Club presenting the 4th Annual Ruth & Irvin either look for the taxis parked out front snack. “There’s couscous served with Balis Volunteer Appreciation Award of a restaurant or trust the WJH travel short rib in a Persian lime and herb to Eve & Mike Pardo app. The new eBook — authored by sauce, crème brulee made with halva, Gottlieb and curated by Omri Negri, with and fried baklava, [the latter consisting Saturday, April 18 the help of bloggers and “foodies” from of] pistachio ice cream wrapped in nuts around Israel — also steers travelers [and] wrapped again] in phyllo dough 6:00 p.m. Dinner 7:00 p.m. Cocktails through Israel’s famous open markets and fried.”

Sunday, March 1, 2015

12:00 to 2:00 PM

Being Held at Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom

555 Warwick Drive, Reading

Hamantashen Carnival Games

Hot Dogs Prizes

Admission to Carnival is FREE. Purchase 25¢ tickets for food & games.

February 2015 SHALOM Page 15 History comes alive at Israel’s Beit She’an archaeological park

Israel21c.org natural roadway from Egypt to Damascus, Tour guide Shalom Pollack says Beit several kibbutzim that offer attractions Romans once flocked to Beit She’an so it was important during the Crusader She’an National Park is “a big wow for of their own. for entertainment such as blood sports. period as a connection point between the anyone above 7 or 8 years old.” operates the (Itamar Grinberg/Israel Tourism Ministry) culture center of Egypt and the mercantile Bear in mind that the Beit She’an popular nature and wildlife sites Sachne- If you’re into archaeology or history, center in Damascus,” he says. Valley is consistently cited as one of the Gan Hashlosha and Gan Garoo. the Israeli city of Beit She’an (“House Plenty of grisly history took place hottest places on earth. But if you cannot Sachne has natural pools fed by hot of Tranquility”) is a not-to-be-missed here, too. This is where, according to the schedule your visit for the cooler winter springs and a stream with mini waterfalls. itinerary item for any tour of Israel — book of Samuel, the Philistines hung King months, plan on taking an air-conditioned “It’s very refreshing, when it’s warm especially during the winter months, as Saul’s body on a wall after the biblical break at a nearby mall with stores and outside, to take a dip in the stream, during the summer this part of Israel is battle on nearby (see restaurants. and the picnic area is great for families one of the hottest places on the planet. below). And this is where a monumental The peaks of Mount Gilboa especially in summertime,” says Pollack. Thanks to the Roman penchant for act of arson — probably ordered by the While you are in the Beit She’an Gan Garoo, a unique Australian park, grand building projects, you can easily king of Assyria in 732 BCE — destroyed Valley, it’s worthwhile to explore nearby lets visitors feed and pet the free-roaming spend a few hours exploring the vast the city that was strategic to the kingdoms Mount Gilboa, with its 11 peaks and lots kangaroos and cockatoos, and watch the Beit She’an national archaeological park of David and Solomon. of picnic spots. koalas, cassowaries and flying foxes. with restored ruins of the 7,000-seat Under Roman rule, Beit She’an In Kibbutz , at the foot of Kibbutz Nir David was one of 52 Roman theater, Byzantine bathhouse, expanded southward and reached its the northern slopes of Gilboa, tower-and-stockade settlements built decorative fountain, colonnaded streets peak of greatness in the fifth century Synagogue National Park houses Israel’s by Zionist immigrants during the British and gladiator amphitheater. CE. It was the capital of a group of 10 best-preserved synagogue floor Mandate in the late 1930s to early 1940s, “Like the Coliseum in Rome, this oval city-states and even minted its own coins. from the sixth century. and a museum on the grounds is devoted structure was used only for blood sports “During the second revolt, the Jews of A Roman-era bridge, a Crusader to this historical era. “This gives you a to keep the Roman troops entertained Beit She’an didn’t side with the rest of the fortress, a mosque from the Mamluk feeling of what it was like to be a pioneer while they were stationed in Beit She’an country against the Romans,” Friedman period, a Turkish government house, an in the valley,” says Pollack. during the Second Temple Period,” says tells ISRAEL21c. Nevertheless, these Ottoman fort and several basalt stone He recommends the Bio-Tour at licensed tour guide Moshe Friedman. local Jews were murdered by their pagan houses from the period of Arab conquest Kibbutz , where an industry In modern times, Beit She’an is a neighbors, perhaps with the complicity of of Beit She’an are all open to tourists. called Bio-Bee Biological Systems sells quiet provincial municipality of 17,000. the Roman authorities. The Belvoir (or Kochav HaYarden specially bred fruit flies, bees, and other But back in its Roman heyday, it attracted All of this comes alive in the “Beit — Star of the Jordan) National Park is insects, as well as nesting owls, to farms perhaps 40,000 residents due to its She’an Nights” sound-and-light show dominated by a Crusader castle, built in 30 countries as natural pest control. strategic, fertile and picturesque location produced by Israel’s renowned Disk- around 1140, perched high above the Overnight accommodations are at the crossroads of the Jordan and In Pro, the same company behind the Jordan valley. Just north is a feeding available at Kibbutz Nir David, Kibbutz Jezreel valleys. Olympic Experience Museum in Tel station set up to strengthen Israel’s and Kibbutz Shluchim, as Friedman says Beit She’an has been Aviv. Groups can reserve a showing for Griffon vulture population. well the Beit She’an Guest House and continuously inhabited since the Egyptian Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Kibbutz attractions Ma’ayan Harod Guest House at the foot period. “Beit She’an sits on ‘Kings Way,’ a Saturdays; call 972-4-648-1122. The Beit She’an Valley houses of the Gilboa Mountains.

Obituaries --- Trina M. (Daniels) Rudolph, Michael Levy,64, of Muhlenberg 84 of Reading. Trina retired from Township. Michael was well known for Oscar Daniels Company Inc. in 1996, his love of food and cooking, he had where she was part owner/operator. worked at various Philadelphia and She was a member of Kesher Zion Berks County restaurants as a Sous Synagogue and was very active in Chef. He had also worked at Singer the Sisterhood. Introduce your children to the joy Introduce your children to the joy Equipment. Michael is survived by Trina is survived by son Alan and Introduce your children to the joy his wife, Victoria, of Colorado; and of Shabbat. Tot Shabbat is a musical, of Shabbat. Tot Shabbat is a musical, his mother, his wife Jeanine and his of Shabbat. Tot Shabbat is a musical, daughters Alison of Philadelphia and daughter Amy and her husband, story-filled Shabbat morning experience story-filled Shabbat morning experience story-filled Shabbat morning experience Jessica of Muhlenberg Township. He Marcus Besser, of Havertown. geared towards families with young geared towards families with young is also survived by his sister, Ellen She is also survived by her five geared towards families with young Sosin and her husband, Michael, of grandchildren. children through grade 2. Bring your children through grade 2. Bring your children through grade 2. Bring your Arizona. family and friends to celebrate with family and friends to celebrate with family and friends to celebrate with Rabbi Brian Michelson and stay for Rabbi Brian Michelson and stay for Rabbi Brian Michelson and stay for B”H Chabad Lubavitch invites you to a pint-size Oneg offering grape a pint-size Oneg offering grape a pint-size Oneg offering grape A Kosher Cooking Class for Ladies! juice, challah, and child friendly treats. juice, challah, and child friendly treats. juice, challah, and child friendly treats.

February 21, 2015 February 21, 2015 February 21, 2015 March 21, 2015 March 21, 2015 March 21, 2015

April 18, 2015 April 18, 2015 April 18, 2015 wit ist h a tw May 16, 2015 May 16, 2015 May 16, 2015 modern June 20, 2015 June 20, 2015 June 20, 2015 TraditionalclaSS #3: Foods

Join us as we make chicken soup Tot Shabbat services are held Saturday Tot Shabbat services are held Saturday Tot Shabbat services are held Saturday Chickenand Soup learn the with secret 3-color to colored Matzahmatza balls Balls mornings at 10am at Reform Congregation mornings at 10am at Reform Congregation mornings at 10am at Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom located at 555 Warwick Drive, Oheb Sholom located at 555 Warwick Drive, Oheb Sholom located at 555 Warwick Drive, Sunday, February 1, 2015 • 6:30 pm Wyomissing, PA 19610. No registration is Wyomissing, PA 19610. No registration is Wyomissing, PA 19610. No registration is At Chabad Lubavitch SAVE THE required. Please call the Temple office with required. Please call the Temple office with required. Please call the Temple office with 2320 Hampden Blvd daTe: march 8 any questions: 610-375-6034. any questions: 610-375-6034. any questions: 610-375-6034. Mega Challah Bake

Cost: $10 RSVP is a must by January 25. 610-334-1577 or [email protected] Page 16 SHALOM February 2015 Questions raised about Turkish regime in wake of Paris attacks By Alina Dain Sharon But at the same time, Koplow said, terror attacks have elicited a series and the Europeans allow a NATO JNS.org “There’s no question that Turkey has of inflammatory comments about the (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) The European Union recently turned a blind eye in a lot of ways to the by Turkish officials. member [such as Turkey] to behave in announced that it is partnering on rise of ISIS (Islamic State) in Syria… Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet such a way, but we see the inability of counter-terrorism projects with Middle and jihadists who [are] crossing into Davutoglu accused Israeli Prime the Americans and Europeans to call East countries — including Turkey, Syria over their border.” Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of a spade a spade,” Inbar said. Egypt, Yemen, Algeria, and the “In the past few months it seems committing crimes against humanity The Israeli-Turkish relationship Gulf states—in the wake of the that Turkey has tried to crack down equivalent to the Paris attacks, citing has been deteriorating since Israel’s Islamist terror attacks in Paris at the on [these] jihadi highways to Syria Israel’s Operation Protective Edge Operation Cast Lead in Gaza from Charlie Hebdo magazine and a kosher a bit, but it’s difficult,” Koplow said. against Hamas last summer and 2008-09. Erdogan publicly chastised supermarket. But is Turkey a suitable “Turkey has an extremely long border the 2010 Gaza flotilla incident (in Israeli president Shimon Peres in partner for that initiative? with Syria. It’s nearly impossible to which Israeli forces were attacked 2009 during a panel at the World Turkey’s inclusion in the EU’s police all things, so people are going by Turkish militants aboard the Mavi Economic Forum in Switzerland. counter-terrorism plan comes despite to get through.” Marmara vessel and subsequently Yet despite their diplomatic long-standing reports of jihadists Turkey, Koplow added, “doesn’t killed nine of those militants). dysfunction, trade between Israel and using the Turkish border to cross seem to recognize the extent of the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Turkey is at an all-time high. Neither into countries where they join Muslim [border] problem, or at least doesn’t Erdogan slammed Netanyahu for Israel nor Turkey has an interest to terrorists. In particular, a Turkish want to acknowledge it.” attending the Jan. 11 mass anti- stamp out trade between the two official recently admitted that Hayat Western nations, and Israel in terrorism rally in Paris, accusing countries because it benefits both Boumeddiene — the girlfriend of particular, should be concerned that the Israeli prime minister of carrying economies, Koplow said. Amedy Coulibaly, the terrorist who Turkey is “clearly supporting radical out state terrorism. A member On the political level, Inbar believes took nearly 20 hostages at the extremist groups in the Middle East, of Erdoğan’s ruling Justice and there is “a struggle over the soul of Paris kosher supermarket — had be it in Syria, in Libya, among the Development Party, or AKP, promoted Turkey within Turkey.” crossed into Syria through Turkey. , [or] of course, helping an anti-Israel conspiracy theory when “This is an issue of identity, [of] Boumeddiene was being pursued by Hamas,” said Efraim Inbar, a professor he told a gathering of youths that where Turkey is going,” he said. authorities as a suspected accomplice of political studies at Israel’s Bar-Ilan because Israel is angry with France “I am not optimistic, but there is in the attack. University and director of the Begin- for supporting a recent Palestinian a possibility that maybe the more Since Boumeddiene was not listed Sadat Center for Strategic Studies. statehood resolution at the United Western elements of Turkish society on any no-fly list, there is no way Turkey is hosting the new Nations, Israel’s Mossad spy agency will gain the upper hand, and then of Turkey could have known to watch her, Istanbul headquarters of Hamas, must have been behind the Paris course we will see entirely different according to Michael Koplow, program the Palestinian terrorist group that attacks. relations between Turkey and Israel, director of the Israel Institute think tank. governs Gaza. Additionally, the Paris Israel is “bewildered that the U.S. and Turkey and the West.”

REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM AND KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE RSISTERHOODR TU B’SHEVAT SEDER SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 TH AT 1PM AT KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE

Tu B’Shevat marks the birthday of the trees on the Jewish calendar. This celebration offers us the unique opportunity to reflect on our relationship to the earth and each other through discussion, food, and song. Come join Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom and Kesher Zion Sisterhoods as we experience and celebrate this fun holiday together. Kesher Zion Synagogue is located at 1245 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA. Please email [email protected] to RSVP before February 4. February 2015 SHALOM Page 17 Israeli ambassador delivers powerful speech to United Nations

Delivered to UN General Assembly Nov. debate is not about speaking for peace or its terrorist proxies to establish a terror terrorists. And in newspapers, cartoons urge 24 by Ambassador Ron Prosor: speaking for the Palestinian people — it is stronghold on our doorstep. I can assure Palestinians to commit terror attacks against I stand before the world as a proud about speaking against Israel. It is nothing you that we won’t make the same mistake Israelis. Children in most of the world grow up representative of the State of Israel and but a hate and bashing festival against again. When it comes to our security, we watching cartoons of Mickey Mouse singing the Jewish people. I stand tall before you Israel. cannot and will not rely on others — Israel and dancing. Palestinian children also grow up knowing that truth and morality are on my Europe fails to meet its ideals must be able to defend itself by itself. watching Mickey Mouse, but on Palestinians’ side. And yet, I stand here knowing that The European nations claim to stand Holy places should be open to all national television, a twisted figure dressed today in this Assembly, truth will be turned for Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité — freedom, The State of Israel is the land of our as Mickey Mouse dances in an explosive on its head and morality cast aside. equality, and brotherhood — but nothing forefathers — Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. belt and chants “Death to America and death The fact of the matter is that when could be farther from the truth. It is the land where Moses led the Jewish to the Jews.” members of the international community I often hear European leaders proclaim people, where David built his palace, where I challenge you to stand up here today speak about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, that Israel has the right to exist in secure Solomon built the Jewish Temple, and and do something constructive for a change. a fog descends to cloud all logic and borders. That’s very nice. But I have to say where Isaiah saw a vision of eternal peace. Publicly denounce the violence, denounce moral clarity. The result isn’t realpolitik, its — it makes about as much sense as me For thousands of years, Jews have lived the incitement, and denounce the culture of surrealpolitik. standing here and proclaiming Sweden’s continuously in the land of Israel. We endured hate. Most people believe that at its core, The world’s unrelenting focus on the right to exist in secure borders. through the rise and fall of the Assyrian, the conflict is a battle between Jews and Israeli-Palestinian conflict is an injustice to When it comes to matters of security, Babylonian, Greek and Roman Empires. And or Israelis and Palestinians. They are tens of millions of victims of tyranny and Israel learned the hard way that we cannot we endured through thousands of years of wrong. The battle that we are witnessing is terrorism in the Middle East. As we speak, rely on others — certainly not Europe. persecution, expulsions and crusades. The a battle between those who sanctify life and Yazidis, Bahai, Kurds, Christians and In 1973, on Yom Kippur — the holiest day bond between the Jewish people and the those who celebrate death. Muslims are being executed and expelled on the Jewish calendar — the surrounding Jewish land is unbreakable. Nothing can Following the savage attack in a by radical extremists at a rate of 1,000 Arab nations launched an attack against change one simple truth — Israel is our home Jerusalem synagogue, celebrations erupted people per month. Israel. In the hours before the war began, and Jerusalem is our eternal capital. in Palestinian towns and villages … The How many resolutions did you pass Golda Meir, our Prime Minister then, made At the same time, we recognize that terrorists were hailed as “martyrs” and last week to address this crisis? And how the difficult decision not to launch a pre- Jerusalem has special meaning for other “heroes.” This isn’t the first time that we many special sessions did you call for? emptive strike. The Israeli government faiths. Under Israeli sovereignty, all people — saw the Palestinians celebrate the murder The answer is zero. What does this say understood that if we launched a pre- and I will repeat that, all people — regardless of innocent civilians. We saw them rejoice about international concern for human life? emptive strike, we would lose the support of religion and nationality can visit the city’s after every terrorist attack on Israeli civilians Not much, but it speaks volumes about the of the international community. holy sites. And we intend to keep it this way. and they even took to the streets to celebrate hypocrisy of the international community. As the Arab armies advanced on every The only ones trying to change the status the September 11 attack on the World Trade I stand before you to speak the truth. front, the situation in Israel grew dire. Our quo on the Temple Mount are Palestinian Center right here in New York City. Of the 300 million Arabs in the Middle East casualty count was growing, and we were leaders. President Abbas is telling his Imagine the type of state this society and North Africa, less than half a percent are running dangerously low on weapons people that Jews are contaminating the would produce. Does the Middle East truly free — and they are all citizens of Israel. and ammunition. In this, our hour of need, Temple Mount. He has called for days of really need another terror-ocracy? Some Israeli Arabs are some of the most President Nixon and Secretary of State rage and urged Palestinians to prevent members of the international community educated Arabs in the world. They are our Henry Kissinger agreed to send Galaxy Jews from visiting the Temple Mount using are aiding and abetting its creation. leading physicians and surgeons, they are planes loaded with tanks and ammunition to “all means” necessary. These words are A message to the world elected to our parliament, and they serve as resupply our troops. The only problem was as irresponsible as they are unacceptable. As we came into the United Nations, we judges on our Supreme Court. Millions of that the Galaxy planes needed to refuel en You don’t have to be Catholic to visit the passed the flags of all 193 member states. If men and women in the Middle East would route to Israel. Vatican, you don’t have to be Jewish to visit you take the time to count, you will discover welcome these opportunities and freedoms. The Arab states were closing in and our the Western Wall, but some Palestinians that there are 15 flags with a crescent and Nonetheless, nation after nation, will very existence was threatened — and yet, would like to see the day when only Muslims 25 flags with a cross. And then there is one stand at this podium today and criticize Europe was not even willing to let the planes can visit the Temple Mount. flag with a Jewish Star of David. Amidst Israel — the small island of democracy in a refuel. The U.S. stepped in once again and You, the international community, are all the nations of the world there is one region plagued by tyranny and oppression. negotiated that the planes be allowed to lending a hand to extremists and fanatics. state — just one small nation state for the A fight for existence refuel in the Azores. You, who preach tolerance and religious Jewish people. Our conflict has never been about the The government and people of Israel will freedom, should be ashamed. Israel will And for some people, that is one too establishment of a Palestinian state. It has never forget that when our very existence never let this happen. We will make sure that many. always been about the existence of the was at stake, only one country came to our the holy places remain open to all people of As I stand before you today I am reminded Jewish state. aid — the United States of America. all faiths for all time. of all the years when Jewish people paid for On Nov. 29, 1947, the United Nations Israel is tired of hollow promises from Peace with security the world’s ignorance and indifference in voted to partition the land into a Jewish state European leaders. The Jewish people have No one wants peace more than Israel. blood. Those days are no more. and an Arab state. Simple. The Jews said a long memory. We will never ever forget No one needs to explain the importance of We will never apologize for being a free yes. The Arabs said no. But they didn’t just that you failed us in the 1940s. You failed us peace to parents who have sent their child and independent people in our sovereign say no. Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Saudi in 1973. And you are failing us again today. to defend our homeland. No one knows the state. And we will never apologize for Arabia and Lebanon launched a war of Every European parliament that voted stakes of success or failure better than we defending ourselves. annihilation against our newborn state. to prematurely and unilaterally recognize a Israelis do. The people of Israel have shed To the nations that continue to allow This is the historical truth that the Arabs Palestinian state is giving the Palestinians exactly too many tears and buried too many sons prejudice to prevail over truth, I say are trying to distort. The Arabs’ historic what they want — statehood without peace. By and daughters. We are ready for peace, “J’accuse.” mistake continues to be felt — in lives lost in handing them a state on a silver platter, you are but we are not naïve. Israel’s security is I accuse you of hypocrisy. I accuse you war, lives lost to terrorism, and lives scarred rewarding unilateral actions and taking away paramount. Only a strong and secure Israel of duplicity. by the Arab’s narrow political interests. any incentive for the Palestinians to negotiate can achieve a comprehensive peace. I accuse you of lending legitimacy to According to the United Nations, about or compromise or renounce violence. You In recent weeks, Palestinian terrorists those who seek to destroy our state. 700,000 Palestinians were displaced in the are sending the message that the Palestinian have shot and stabbed our citizens and twice I accuse you of speaking about Israel’s war initiated by the Arabs themselves. At Authority can sit in a government with terrorists driven their cars into crowds of pedestrians. right of self-defense in theory, but denying the same time, some 850,000 Jews were and incite violence against Israel without paying Terrorists armed with axes and a gun savagely it in practice. forced to flee from Arab countries. any price. attacked Jewish worshipers during morning And I accuse you of demanding Why is it, that 67 years later, the The first E.U. member to officially prayers. We have reached the point when concessions from Israel, but asking nothing displacement of the Jews has been recognize a Palestinian state was Sweden. Israelis can’t even find sanctuary from of the Palestinians. completely forgotten by this institution while When it comes to other conflicts in our region, terrorism in the sanctuary of a synagogue. In the face of these offenses, the verdict the displacement of the Palestinians is the the Swedish Government calls for direct These attacks didn’t emerge out of a vacuum. is clear. You are not for peace and you are subject of an annual debate? negotiations between the parties – but for the They are the results of years of indoctrination not for the Palestinian people. You are The difference is that Israel did its utmost Palestinians, surprise, surprise, they roll out and incitement. A Jewish proverb teaches: simply against Israel. to integrate the Jewish refugees into society. the red carpet. State Secretary Söder may “The instruments of both death and life are in Members of the international community The Arabs did just the opposite. think she is here to celebrate her government’s the power of the tongue.” have a choice to make. The worst oppression of the Palestinian so-called historic recognition, when in reality As a Jew and as an Israeli, I know You can recognize Israel as the nation- people takes place in Arab nations. In it’s nothing more than an historic mistake. with utter certainly that when our enemies state of the Jewish people, or permit the most of the Arab world, Palestinians are The Swedish Government may host the say they want to attack us, they mean it. Palestinian leadership to deny our history denied citizenship and are aggressively Nobel Prize ceremony, but there is nothing Hamas’s genocidal charter calls for the without consequence. discriminated against. They are barred from noble about their cynical political campaign to destruction of Israel and the murder of Jews You can publically proclaim that the so- owning land and prevented from entering appease the Arabs in order to get a seat on worldwide. For years, Hamas and other called “claim of return” is a non-starter, or certain professions. And yet none — not the Security Council. Nations on the Security terrorist groups have sent suicide bombers you can allow this claim to remain the major one — of these crimes are mentioned in Council should have sense, sensitivity, and into our cities, launched rockets into our obstacle to any peace agreement. the resolutions before you. sensibility. Well, the Swedish Government towns, and sent terrorists to kidnap and You can work to end Palestinian incitement, If you were truly concerned about the has shown no sense, no sensitivity and no murder our citizens. or stand by as hatred and extremism take root plight of the Palestinian people there would sensibility. Just nonsense. And what about the Palestinian Authority? for generations to come. be one, just one, resolution to address the Israel learned the hard way that listening It is leading a systemic campaign of incitement. You can prematurely recognize a thousands of Palestinians killed in Syria. to the international community can bring In schools, children are being taught that Palestinian state, or you can encourage the And if you were so truly concerned about about devastating consequences. In 2005, ‘Palestine’ will stretch from the Palestinian Authority to break its pact with the Palestinians there would be at least we unilaterally dismantled every settlement to the Mediterranean Sea. In mosques, Hamas and return to direct negotiations. one resolution to denounce the treatment and removed every citizen from the Gaza religious leaders are spreading vicious libels The choice is yours. You can continue of Palestinians in Lebanese refugee camps. Strip. Did this bring us any closer to peace? accusing Jews of destroying Muslim holy sites. to steer the Palestinians off course or pave But there isn’t. The reason is that today’s Not at all. It paved the way for Iran to send In sports stadiums, teams are named after the way to real and lasting peace. Page 18 SHALOM February 2015 May 2010 Shalom Page 10 Federation Honorial - Memorial Card Information HonorialsHonorials and and Memorials Memorials ContributionsContributions may may be be made made to to the the following following Funds: Funds: Please mail your payment with complete information to the Jewish FederationUJA-Federation Jewish Campaign Community Campaign $10 $10 Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 or bring to the Jewish Jewish Family Service $10 Jewish Family Service $10 Cultural Center, 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125, Wyomissing. You may set up Leo Camp Lecture Fund $10 a “savings account” for the purpose of sending cards. Please contact the JFSLeo FoodCamp Bank Lecture Fund $10 $25 Jewish Federation at 610-921-0624 for further information. JFS TaxiFood Transportation Bank Program $25 $20 Contributions as of Jan. 16 HolocaustJFS Taxi Transportation Library & Resource Program Center $20 $18 Contributions as of April 16 Holocaust Library & Resource Center $18 Holocaust Library & Resource Center Doris Levin Fund $10 In honor of: Doris Levin Fund $10 UJA-Federation Campaign Brian Wernick’s engagement – Lynn and Richard Gordon 50th anniversary of Robert Hammel’s Bar Mitzvah In honor of: Joey Abramson’s engagement – Lynn and Richard Gordon Sarah Simon’s engagement – Vic and 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 Mehringer – Edith Mendelsohn Jewish Family Service In memory of: Gordon In honor of: Sandra “Honey” Youngerman – Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, Mindy and Sam Goodman’s engagement – Alma and Ed Lakin Birth of Sari and John Incledon’s new grandson Ethan Henry Staniland – Dena Richard Small Alyse Corbin’s marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin and Vic Hammel, Andy and Corinne Wernick, Barbara Nazimov, Ruth Isenberg DorisTrina Levin Rudolph Fund – Marlene and George Weiss, Meyer Lewis Sue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer In memoryLeonard of:Rosenzweig – Al and Betsy Katz Birth of Selma Cutler’s great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr. Walter Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike In memory of: Evelyn Goodman – Spencer and Mary Ann Watts, Mary Jo and John Weishampel Moyer Robinson Sandra “Honey” Youngerman – Miriam Youngerman Miller Pearl Baker (Sharon Syret’s mother) – Lynn and Richard Gordon BirthEvelyn of GoodmanCarol and – Gordon Edith Mendelsohn, Perlmutter’s Sid new and grandson Esther Bratt, – Debbie Irene Goodman Levin, Sharon and Shoshana Tannenbaum – Carole and Mike Robinson Murphy,John Moyer Judy and Bob Miller HolocaustJFS Taxi Transportation Library and Resource Program Center Leonard Rosenzweig – Andy and Corinne Wernick In honor of: GetTrina well: Rudolph – Dr. Sandra K. Rowan, Edith Mendelsohn, Andy and Corinne In memory of: Harold Leifer – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer ShoshanaBirth of Sari Tannenbaum and John Incledon’s – Ken and new Mary grandson Holt, George Ethan Henryand Sue Staniland Viener, – Sue Dr. Wernick Sandra K. Rowan Pearl Baker – Marsha Adelman Schlanger, Gordon and Carol Perlmutter, Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John Evelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund Deegan, Naum and Lyudmila Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and In memory of: MarvinFriendship Segal, CircleVic and FundDena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & FederationShoshana TannenbaumJewish Community – Beth and Bob Campaign Caster IvanIn honor Gordon, of: Carrie & Stephen Latman, Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey In honor of: Schneider,Birth of SariNorman and John& Rita Incledon’s Wilikofsky, new Audrey grandson Williams, Ethan Alan Henry and Staniland Esther Strauss, – Herb Birth of Sari and John Incledon’s new grandson Ethan Henry Staniland – The Jewish Family Service JaySchneider and Evelyn Lipschutz, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, Driben family In honor of: John Castrege and family, Michael Geraci, Maxine & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter new grandson Jacob Ethan – Lynn and Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Sue and George Viener, LauraIn memory Higgins of: Richard Gordon Betsy and Al Katz Leonard Rosenzweig – Alice Botvin and Ned Littlehales Birth of Al and Betsy Katz’s new granddaughter Amalia Aliza Katz – Lynn and Bat Mitzvah of Fran Mendelsohn’s granddaughter – Rosalye Yashek William Hashinger (Ruth Isenberg’s son-in-law) – Herb Schneider Richard Gordon Friendship Circle In memory of: Get well: DearShoshana friends, Tannenbaum – Jill and Gladys Skaist Harold Leifer – Glenn and Gaye Corbin Thank you very much for the heartfelt support you showed Alex and me in time of our loss. HolocaustAlthough we were not education able to sit Shiva with our spreading family in Jerusalem, we infelt like Berks we were with County family because we were surrounded by our friends from KZ, from Reading Jewish community, and from Lancaster. ContinuedThe warmth from Page that emulated5 from allalso directions that the was students really comforting. are genuinely On a wider note, there have justice and Holocaust remembrance today. silenceThank is not you the also reason Rabbi why Rachel. 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 presentWe’ll because see you of the all immensesoon, hopefully respect onlyhearing on happy Hilde’s occasions, 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 ThoughNaomi the fourth and Alexquarter Knoll. 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 Kibbutz produces women’s gym apparelbe offered atthat’s their local highpopular school. remain. worldwide I just spoke to an undergraduate One gentleman was from Lancaster ethics class at Penn State Berks  of production every year, added a line Israel21c.org County.Margarita The children’s other, Gerry workout Evans, togs. is a regarding the ethical/moral implications Neon stripes, splashy flowers and Given her affinity for flowers, it’s not of items for girls, and claims customers teacher at Hamburg High School. I of the Holocaust. I found the students psychedelic tie-dye prints on your surprising that Zimmerman’s favorite on five continents. The company now have been in contact with two other to be receptive and inquisitive and workout wear might not make your more design in the Margarita line is accented has a large space on the kibbutz to local teachers, Pete Ruckelshaus at have been asked to deliver a similar fit, but might make your workout more with bold daisies. “That style is very accommodate about 50 sewing machines.  Twin Valley and Jim Konecke at Wilson program in the classes that the same fun. And that’s why women around the typical of us; like our logo, with a lot of Zimmerman says their location — High School. Pete has resurrected a professor also teaches at Reading Area world – including celebrity customers colors.”Attention is lavished not only on surrounded by the Carmel mountain range course on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community College. such as Paris Hilton — have turned the graphics but also on construction. and the coastline of the Mediterranean  Valley, and its first offering is during As mentioned above, Kim Yashek, the small kibbutz-based Margarita Margarita garments are all made of “very Sea — inspires their imagination. the current fourth quarter. He is very daughter of the late local Holocaust Activewear into a success story without good quality Supplex that doesn’t lose “It makes us proud to know that today excited about offering this course to survivor Richard Yashek, is speaking at any advertising at all. its color and wicks sweat away from one can see women in the streets of  his students and has even lined up Twin Valley, Hamburg and Fleetwood. “We use a lot of colors, not like classic the body. The quality is very important Singapore, Johannesburg, Los Angeles,  several guest speakers including Rabbi Right now Albright College is hosting Adidas or Nikes,” says Dorit Zimmerman, to us,” says Zimmerman.Over the past Sydney or Paris dressed with Margarita’s Brian Michelson, Kim Yashek and Hilde an exhibit titled, “Stories Among Us: who founded Margarita in 2002 with decade, Margarita has doubled its rate fabulous design,” Zimmerman says. Gernsheimer. Washington State Connections to the her spouse, fellow aerobics instructor Jim Konecke is teaching at Wilson Holocaust, Lessons in Genocide.” The Gerardo Clavijo. “It’s not for everybody. Central Junior High but will be moving up exhibit includes the stories of five Holocaust Not all girls and women like to wear to Wilson High School at the beginning survivors and one liberator and has strong colors and designs, but this is contacted us. That’s how it grew. We Pediatric and Adult Patients of next school year. He will be offering a received good reviews. It is definitely what makes us different.” really never did a big push on Facebook.” course on Nazi Germany. His students worth a visit! It will be at Albright’s Gingrich Margarita employs 18 people and Geography inspires creativity Treating Ear, Nose, Throat Problems will be studying this period of German Library through May 10. sells around 2,500 items a month – Zimmerman is a 13th generation history Thyroidin depth, including Nodules, a study of Neck the Masses & Sinusitis*** yoga pants, tights, capris, shorts, skirts, Israeli living in Uruguay when she met rise of anti-Semitism, the initial period of Jennifer Goss teaches social studies jackets and bra tops – online and through and married Clavijo 24 years ago. After the Holocaust and the Final Solution. The in thePhysicians: Fleetwood School District and retailers in the United States, Canada, 18 years in South America, Zimmerman latter part of the course will look at post-warJames specializes P. Restrepo, in M.D., Holocaust F.A.C.S. education. France, England, Asia and Lichtenstein. was eager to come home, and she and Spreading the word Clavijo – who speak to one another in Charles K. Lutz, M.D., F.A.C.S. The business started out in Israel and Spanish — decided to move to Kibbutz Plan for your Bar/Bat MitzvahJeffrey S. Driben, & W M.D.,edding F.A.C.S. Guests! spread globally through word of mouth, Saar in the Western Galilee. Nurse Practitioner: Zimmerman tells ISRAEL21c. Using two sewing machines, they Rosemarie Montgomery began designing and sewing exercise “During the second Lebanon war [in MS, CRNP, FNP-C the summer of 2006], we were closed apparel branded Margarita. Audiologists: because our kibbutz is near the border, Zimmerman explains that their first but a girl from Canada saw our stuff in a instinct was to call the company Oxygen, Kathleen D. Vivaldi, AuD, FAAA store in Tel Aviv and asked the owner to but they didn’t like how that sounded in Melanie A. Appler, AuD, FAAA give her my number,” she relates. either English or Hebrew (chamtzan). Matthew R. Bonsall, AuD “I was in the South, in the Arava, Drawing on his background in graphic READING trying to sell our line, and this girl came design, Clavijo came up with a logo 2801 Papermill Road to the Arava and bought 40 or 50 items picturing a daisy (margarita in Spanish) Hearing and Balance Disorders Wyomissing, Pennsylvania State of the Art Hearing Aid Fittings to bring home and sell. Then someone with the letter O in the center of the In House Hearing Aid Repairs from New York saw our stuff. And then a flower and a little number 2 to the right GROUP RATES AVAILABLE few years later we had a good customer of the petals – a creatively different way in San Diego that has an interesting of depicting O2, the chemical symbol for Call Alice985 for a SiteBerkshire Tour Blvd., Wyomissing website for aerobic sportswear, and all oxygen. 610-374-5599 • www.ent-hns.net his competitors saw Margarita there and (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com