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

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

JewishVolume Federation 40 of No.Reading 3 MARCh 2010 Adar-NisanNon-Profit Organization 5770 Jewish Cultural Center U.S. Postage PAID PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 Permit No. 2 www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgINSIDE Reading, PA Change Service RequestedShalom1100 Berkshire Boulevard The Journal ofShalom the Reading JewishIt’s been Community an Publishedincredible as a community year. service Hope by you’ve the Jewish beenFederation here! of Reading, Pa. TThehe JJournalournal ofof the ReadingIt is hardJewish to believe Community.Community that a year Published Published has gone as as by a a since community community we relocated service service to the by by Jewish the the Jewish Jewish Cultural Federation Federation Center at of1100 of Reading, Reading, Berkshire Pa. Pa. Volume 40 No.Boulevard 5 in Wyomissing. If you haven’tMAY been here,2010 we hope to see you in the very near future.Iyar-Sivan For those of you 5770 who VolumeVolume 47, 40 No. No. 4 5 use the Center regularly or from ‘time MAY APRIL to time’, 2010 2017we always appreciate your visits and encourage Iyar-SivanNISAN-IYAR your feedback. 5770 5777 INSIDE And, thank you all for your support throughout the year! ReflectionsINSIDE on Paul D. Cohn, President, Jewish Federation of Reading Cindy Balchunas, Chair, Jewish Cultural Center Committee Passover ShalomTammyHaving K. Mitgang, Executive a ball Director, at Jewish Purim Federation of Reading/Jewishcelebration Cultural Center The Journal of the Reading Jewish Community Published as a community service by the Jewish Federation of Reading, Pa. Page 12 ThereThe community is gatheredno freefor lunch — or is there? Volume 40 No.the 3 first Purim Masquerade Party MARCh 2010 Adar-Nisan 5770 Byon Paul March D. Cohn4 at Stokesay Castle. County Jews have gone to the JCC’s preschool to look at all expenditures, making sure that we FederationThe slider president and stir fry station for its excellent learning curriculum.Many times are being good stewards of your contributions. FreeINSIDE Jewish were enjoyed by all and everyone Programbooks for at The 2010 Jewish the preschool is a gateway for Jewish families in We are making progress in all areas of your FreeDoubleAlvernia Jewish feature to FederationEllenenjoyed Azrael, good JewishLarry conversation Rotenberg Annual and and Hilde Gernsheimer1100Berks Berkshire County, where they can Boulevard meet and make Federation. We are now in a position to focus kids available Campaignfun. The bandis under provided way.Photo great by Jeremy Drey: Courtesyfriends of with Reading other Eagle Jewish families. 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David,extracurricular Larry and Alison activities Rotenberg to ensure community?Although oneIn addition,can study JFS the provides happened. an Again,have a specialserious thank needs you in their own country. waiting to pledge, I am asking for your help. residentialtry to put these communities. events into Tohistorical date, ofthoughts becoming and memoriesthat meaningful with us. adult The most apparent marker of each child has an opportunity to Jewish Family eventsoutreach leading program up the and Holocaust acts as and a clearinghouse to Hilde, Ellen and LarryAs I mentionedfor sharing their above, Trudy the Katz funds and raised EllenPhotos Azrael by by PleaseBarbara pledgeDavid,Nazimov Larry now. except and As asAlison you noted haveRotenberg previously Service Villagefor other Way agencies Educational in our Initiatives area. As economicin the lives ofthe the Campaign children inrepresent their success the largest is the portion implementation of heard meof say,experience Jews have success. a rich tradition of try to put these events into historical thoughts and memories with us. Photos by Barbara Nazimov except as noted 2010 totals hasconditions impacted have 1,500 worsened, educators JFS has care. seen Thean Villagethe Federation’s Way process budget. educational Last year you programs helped leading that are by example.Ashdod All ofAmal us, noTechnology matter how as ofPage Feb. 8 19 andincreaseYashek 11,800 in peopleyouth at-risk. lecturelooking for help. totransforms focus contribute a community on $600,000 France as a to makingthe Campaign. a real differenceA few large in theor small High the School:contribution, A new have community a chance YashekYemin• Lakin Early Orde’s Educationlecture efforts Center are towhole, – JCC’s focus impacting years onago, the programs,our France Campaign lives was of over the $1 children. million. to become leaders.service It program all adds up. has All students of us can Jewish supportedpreschoolThis andbyyear’s local kindergarten dollarsRichard through have J. Yashek a longpolicies, historyefforts physical So to youbetter space, can understand see and that the our these annualAt the campaign end of the is three-yearchange the volunteeringworld for the better. with a retirement thelecture Israel will Now be campaign held Thursday, of the Maycommunity terrible traditions events actually and culture. accomplishedintegration process, the partnering home every week, developing Community of providingThis year’s quality Richard education J. Yashekin a nurturing, efforts moreto better important understand than ever. these The Federation has Free lunch…I don’t think so. It is worth its Jewish6, at Federation8 p.m. in Memorial of Reading. Chapel at Overtheir the aims? past six Or months have eachthey actuallycommunities become Village Way strong relationships with the Campaign positivelecture environment. will be held Many Thursday, generations May of Berksterrible takenevents steps actually to help accomplished reduce our expenses and weight in gold. AlbrightThe Village College. Way The integration speaker will ofbe these distorted youth villages,historical schools, understanding Graduate Communities, which residents, and feeling empowered $110,708 6, at 8 p.m. in Memorial Chapel at their aims? Or have they actually processRichard J. is Golsan, changing Ph.D., a theprofessor and residentialand challenged communities the notion continueof the to provide meaningful and valued in the contribution they Albright College. The speaker will be distorted historical understanding 20172010 totals awarenessof French at and Texas attitudes A&M University. of integrated uniqueness the of Village the Holocaust Way as educationalwell as programs, engage are making to their community. Richard J. Golsan, Ph.D., a professor and challenged the notion of the as of April 19 individualHe is the educators,author or editor which of moremethodology the terrible singularity in different, of the fatein ofstaff its learning and benefit from Manof Youth Village: Its as2010 of March totals 17 of French at Texas A&M University. uniqueness of the Holocaust as well as changesthan a dozentheir behaviors books. He with has the been individual a victims? ways. This lectureThe staff will explore of the these many Village Way resources Graduate Program provides as of April 19 He is the author or editor of more the terrible singularity of the fate of its Jewish childrenvisiting inprofessor their care. at theThe Sorbonne tools these in issuescommunities through work a discussion with their of availablerecent to them. Last year critical support and involving Jewish Community than a dozen books. He has been a victims? This lecture will explore these Community providedParis, where by thehe taught Village courses Way on thefacilitator works to of find literature solutions and film that as Yeminwell as Orde initiated a project graduates in village life. Jewish visiting professor at the Sorbonne in issues through a discussion of recent CampaignCampaign methodologymemory of helpWorld them War find II in newpostwar best fitthe the 1990’s needs trials of oftheir French youth, citizens for on continued sponsorship of Emunah Torah and Arts Community Paris, where he taught courses on the works of literature and film as well as waysFrench of encouraging, literature and supporting, culture. utilizingcharges the toolsof crimes and against wisdom humanity key for educational programs for Academy: A learning session $194,470 memory of World War II in postwar the 1990’s trials of French citizens on Campaign$273,000 and buildingFor more up than their three students, decades provided complicity from in the the frameworkFinal Solution. those graduate communities that focused on ‘empowering parents *Includes transfers from French literature and culture. charges of crimes against humanity for whileFrance also has guiding been them preoccupied through withof the The methodology. lecture is held Each in memory continued of to meet Village Way in the eyes of the children, and Donor Advised Funds For more than three decades complicity in the Final Solution. $273,000 thetraumatic setbacks moments and difficulties and events that educationalof Richard community J. Yashek, adevelops Holocaust survivorimplementation criteria. em- powering children in the eyes France has been preoccupied with The lecture is held in memory of arise.its recentWe remind past. educators But have in ournational an annualand longtime Village Berks Way County work resident.Some examples of Villabve of the parents.’ 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 April 2017 Passover Matzo and memories By Richard Nassau about possible grass seed varieties I was all about your view of the door, and with a bit of grass seed. My haggadahs Development Director should consider. there were only two answers. Was it still need to be replaced. They are now Passover, already; I know it is not about our wine-stained opened to look out or to look in? very well worn but also include a few wait, weren’t we just Haggadahs, though I do remember a So what is it about Passover and new ones that are child-friendly. You celebrating…? Yes it family with young children asking me these memories? I recently read a never know whom you might encounter is early or late or on in front of a grocery’s “matzo display,” 2005 article on Passover written by at the store or what young family in our time, but it is here. my thoughts about the Haggadah Rabbi Patricia Karlin-Neumann. She community may be in search of a Seder. What is it about this they had in their cart. We had a nice quotes a friend’s child who said, “When My door is open. My view sometimes holiday that for me lively discussion about their childhood you’re Jewish, everything important looks in, but more times I look out into and for so many Seders and the many varieties of child happens at home.” We can debate that our community, locally and beyond. others evokes such friendly haggadahs they might consider. thought, but Passover does give us the We debate, ask questions, and have strong memories? I know it is not about Elijah, though I opportunity to bring together family, more than just two viewpoints. Maybe I know it is not about the matzo, do remember two local visiting university “Jewishness,” and community in one that’s what it is about Passover. There though I do remember wandering educators debating the meaning of why place. More importantly, it allows us to is a “Jewishness” that you can try around the backyard balancing the we open the door. They were strong do this in our home. We can’t always to explain, but it is participating that unleavened bread on my back as our debaters, and it was more than just a anticipate what will happen, and it is makes it memorable. It could be a middle child led a long line of family, lively discussion, fueled perhaps by the never the same twice, but we do have Federation program or a family Seder. friends, and neighbors through a very structure of the Seder. There was no the ability to create the space in a way There are a variety of choices for you muddy desert. This was followed later resolution of course. Suffice it to say that is meaningful to us. to consider. Either way you never know by a lively discussion with everyone it was memorable as some wine was My middle child has grown. I still if you’re going to spill some wine or end about Exodus, its timeliness and spilled and some dishes needed to be see him leading us over branches in up with some muddy shoes. importance for people; followed still replaced. For our visiting educators the backyard and readily admit there I wish you a happy and healthy later by a discussion with my neighbors there were no varieties to consider. It are still a few patches that could do holiday. Meir Panim teaches takers how to give in honor of Purim

Purim is commemorated in unique “The commandments of Purim “Meir Panim strives both to remedy stricken and dysfunctional homes ways as compared with other Jewish are not ‘suggestions’,” said Goldie immediate hunger as well as help and used to being takers, to be holidays. While most holidays have a Sternbuch, Director of Overseas people out of the vicious cycle of givers. For Purim, the children will relatively somber tone, Purim is known Relations for Meir Panim, to Breaking poverty,” continued Sternbuch. dress up and visit the homes of for its festivities of feasting, drinking Israel News. “These are obligations. “Purim is a ‘giving’ holiday. We are elderly and housebound people to and dressing up. However, for Israel’s Yet, for Israel’s 1.7 million poverty commanded to give food and charity deliver packages of food provided by poor and lonely citizens, enjoying stricken citizens, fulfilling God’s to all who need. Therefore, every Meir Panim. They will do the same at Purim is a challenge. Therefore, commands is an impossibility.” soup-kitchen patron receives two gift their local hospital striving to bring Meir Panim, Israel’s premiere charity In order to ensure that as many packages. One for themselves and joy and generosity to those who may organization, has organized unique people as possible observe God’s one to give away to someone else. need it more than they do. activities to enhance the day for all. commandments on Purim, Meir Panim People need to feel that they are not “It is important for everyone to know On Purim, the Book of Esther goes out of its way to provide what only takers but givers.” that they can be a giver,” Sternbuch is publicly read during both the is needed to celebrate the holiday. Though giving charity is a year- told Breaking Israel News. “No matter holiday’s evening and day. It decrees At their free restaurant-style soup round commandment, on Purim the what a person’s circumstances are, commandments one must fulfill on the kitchens throughout the Holy Land, Talmud states that “everyone who everyone has something to give, holiday. These include eating a festive patrons enjoy extra holiday delicacies asks shall receive”. Therefore, Purim whether a warm smile or a large meal, exchanging food packages with and volunteers often don costumes in is the day of the year particularly donation. Giving is what makes the friends, and giving charity to the poor. the spirit of the day. known as a time to give and receive. world a better place.” Thus, Meir Panim’s youth Meir Panim is supported by local programs have arranged for the dollars through the Jewish Federation children, who are from poverty of Reading’s Israel Now Fund.

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TheHighlands.org A member of Reading Health System October 2012 SHALOM Page 3 April 2017 SHALOM Page 3 LookingFrom the President’s forward Desk to a great New Year DON’T MISS OUT By Alvin Katz in need. Providing food, assistance with visit, among other sites, Yemin Orde, and Be sure to pick up the October Chairman expenses and many other aspects of getting Meir Panim, which we support through AsI want weto take this celebrate those less fortunatefreedom, back on their feet. yourlet contributions. us Yemin remain Orde is a youth vigilantBerks County Living magazine featuring a special timeBy William to wish allD. ofFranklin you a Ourwhose ܁nance spirit committee must continue has been to inform working villageoldest in hatred the Carmel and mountains has worn near “different Haifa successful and will strengthen the veryPresident Happy and Sweet overtimemoral thinking ensuring and that courage. our funds It is becauseare well whichclothing caters in differentto youth times.”in need, In providing today’s futuresupplement of our Jewish produced community. by the NewOn Year. the evening caredwe continuously and accounted doubt, for. question,I also want and to themworld with he believes shelter, emotionalthat the dress support it wears and JewishOther events Federation in the nextof Reading. few months of AsApril we 10,enter Jews into the all recognizestudy to understand Tammy Mitgang that weand “unfold her entire the anis anti-Zionism,excellent education. for the Meirelimination Panim is,of thefor include a Sharsheret program on Newover Year, the world we reflect will be Federation/JCCmeaning” of things staff and who solve work problems. tirelessly theJewish lack stateof a betterwill mean description, the elimination similar toof “CancerSpecial Genetics thanks to and Campaign the Jewish oncelebrating what we Passover, have for you.Lévy pointed out that anti-Semitism whatthe Jewish we would people. call a soup kitchen but with Family”Co-Chairs on April Howard 2. Sharsheret & Victoria is a accomplished this past As we enter the New Year, I am happy to a different concept. Here those in need can our national ‘birthday’. and hatred continue to exist both in Lévy also spoke of the Jewish nationalHafetz not-for-profit for spearheading organization the that yearIt was and what a day challenges that lie ahead for us announceEurope and that the we United have States.a Mission The to recent Israel gettradition hot meals of each that are generation SERVED interpreting to them, not supports young Jewish breast cancer inchanged the coming the worldyear. Yourfor Federation has thisswastika month in incident conjunction at the with Exeter the Allentown Public cafeteriaand reinterpreting style as here in our the sacredStates, so texts, that patientsproject, andwhich their raised families. $19,200 Looking for providedthe better. many interesting programs and Federation.Library brought With the this numbers painfully participating, home to theywhich don’t allows feel like us they to aremake getting and a handout.sanctify a Federation! little farther See forward, Page on7 for May a list 1 we speakersAt our this past recent year. We have attended thisour should Reading be a Jewish very worthwhile community, Mission. but Innecessary addition, Meir changes. Panim serves Our tradition thousands of rememberof advertisers those who and lost patrons. their lives towell-attended those less fortunate, 92nd maintained Street Y program, our state Theythe response will be visiting of the many general sites and community meeting ofinterpretation hot meals to ‘defreezes’schoolchildren the throughout word and fighting in the War of Independence certi܁edBernard-Henri Nursery Lévy, Europe’sSchool. foremost We completed withwas warmsome andwell-known reassuring. names Shortly in Israel after, Israelthrough and thatmaintains process a Goodwill-like ‘defreezes facility ‘the andLook in for subsequent it at local battles, retailers on and Yom aphilosopher very successful and Gratz activist, College spoke program about politicsour Greater and military. Reading I feel certain Unity that Coalition many toworld. help furnish Recently clothing Reform and furniture Congregation to those Hazikaron. That same evening we will for our teenagers and a wonderful senior if not all of them will return with a better in need. For both of these organizations and libraries and at the Berks Encore his book “The Genius of Judaism.” In presented to more than 2,000 Boyertown Oheb Sholom and Kesher Zion beSenior celebrating Expo Oct. Israeli 23 at Independence BodyZone. program.his book Ourhe explainsJewish Family how Judaism Service hasand understandingHigh School of students, Israel and showing its position that in JewsSynagogue throughout overwhelmingly the world who receive approved your Day, Yom HaAtzmaut. We start April againJewish done peoplehood a wonderful are job important helping tothose the theJews, world Christians, and the Middle Muslims, East. Hispanics They will support,moving I aheadthank you. and are preparing an celebrating the birthday of the Jews, Fromworld andthe whyPresident’s the global Desk resurgence and Afro-Americans do productively live agreement as the initial step of sharing and we begin May with the 69th of anti-Semitism poses an existential together. Outreach to more schools is the RCOS facilities for worship, study, birthday of the modern state of Israel. threat to all. Jews are not only a “chosen underway. meetings, and other events. Change Have a good Passover. Hag Pesach Beingpeople,” Lévy states, Alma but a “treasure” Lévy stated that anti-Semitism is the is not easy, but we hope this will be Sameach. 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 President life for Israel — though it is a ܁rst-­world for Israel and the American Jewish Joint President of the Jewish Federation of FederationAlma Lakin would be workingeconomy like the USA, to was address dif܁cult and Distribution Committee community (JDC) — feared Reading, she security and Dan Tannenbaum, the ܁rst to pooh-­pooh complicated. for the Ethiopian Jewish community’s an executive director of the Federation, Unfortunately, Jewish communities Preschool to review with Wyomissing and cemetery desecrations. On the 4) Within the next few weeks the any notion that she When I interviewed her for a video safety when rebel forces threatened brokered a partnership with her alma across the country are under attack, Police our building security, safety national level, the FBI, the Department Jewish Federation of North America will was amazing, special that recognized her and her husband, to overrun Mengistu Haile-Mariam’s mater, Albright College, that would with more than 148 terrorist threats to plans and steps to be taken to increase of Homeland Security and local law be implementing a new, powerful and or that she inspired the Ed’s community service and the Commmunist government. establish the Holocaust Library and our institutions in more than 30 different security. Enhanced security for our enforcement agencies have all been cost-efficient emergency notification extraordinary in others. establishment of the Holocaust Library What followed was one of the most Resource Center on the campus. communities. Hate-filled vandalism and cemeteries was also discussed. valuable partners in addressing this system to link the leadership of local Petite, big hearted and and Resource Center at Albright College, dramatic rescue operations in Israel’s Being Alma meant tireless service desecration of our sacred places are being Research into options and their cost is challenge. Jewish institutions and organizations deliberate, time spent she did not talk about her efforts to raise history. Over 34 hours and four minutes, and no fanfare — certainly no pictures perpetrated to wreak havoc and instill fear. underway and a follow-up meeting is 3) We are also in regular contact to enable immediate response to crisis with Alma was never money and resettle Soviet Jews in our 34 Israeli cargo and passenger planes if she was expected to be in them. As these threats have magnified planned for early April. with the Anti-Defamation League situations. about her. community. Instead, she spoke of how worked around the clock, airlifting 14,310 Accolades were not her style; but she in number and scope, your Reading 2) We are in daily contact with to share in their wide network of If you are the victim of or witness to She cared about others — strangers, thrilled she was to meet with Natan and Ethiopian Jews to Israel from Addis was not without opinion — thoughtful Jewish Federation and Jewish the Secure Community Network for information and guidance on when and an anti-Semitic act, immediately call the family and friends. And she worked to Avital Sharanksy — refuseniks who at Ababa. Alma would have beamed having and at times, determined. But, no matter Federations across the country have warnings and updates. They are how to respond. They were extremely police and then Bill Franklin at the JCC improve the world — here at home, in extraordinary personal risk and sacri܁ce heard MK Sholomo Molla’s incredible life what she put her efforts behind, you could been active on several fronts: working with federal officials in law helpful to JFR and the Exeter Public 610-921-0624 (office) or 610-927-7126 Israel and around the world. When you helped to spark and later ignite a global story that he credits to the work of the be sure that she was right by your side, 1) We recently convened a enforcement and homeland security Library during the recent anti-Semitic (cell) to ensure appropriate follow-up were with Alma, it was all about you, it movement to free Soviet Jewry. Between Federation system that saved his life. working hand in hand with you and others meeting with our synagogues and Lakin to aid investigations of bomb threats incident at the library. steps are taken. was you who were front and center and 1990 and 1997, Federation’s Operation (see page 5) to do great things. made to feel special. Exodus campaign nationally raised $1 Alma shared her excitement and pride Alma considered herself privileged WeAlma believed never that we are responsible shook billion to rapidly hands rescue and resettle more that helped to raise nearly $1 million to have enjoyed so much of life. One 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 ofBy chesed Rabbi Joel (caring Weintraub and compassion), Norththe business America. world. PS –When Alma I tookmarched one of with the wouldthat are build “kosher,” the U.S. and Holocaust this is one Memorial of them. intogood Jordan name when excels the them borders all.” with The Israel goal TorahWhen (Jewish I was firstlearning), introduced tikkun to olamAlbert othersBoscov in bus our early community bird specials on the at 6:00am National to MuseumHad the situationin Washington, been reversed, America’s we werefor every reopened. Jew and “To indeed think, every she humanwould (repairingBoscov, of the blessed word) and memory, tzedakah or (social rather MallNew Yorkin Washington City, most of duringus were one drowsy of andthe nationaltoo would institution have been for the possessed documentation, of this reminisce;being is to “that attain we the along crown with of a other good justice).when he And introduced her life was himself an embodiment to me, in his largestperhaps marches half asleep. in American Not Albert, history. who That was study“kosher” and jealousy. interpretation Who would of Holocaust not want Federationname, a golden mission-goers, reputation. metAlbert with Boscov King ofeffusive those principles.and ebullient manner, it was at rallywide would awake, become completely a turning alert point and in totally this history.Albert Boscov She reଂected to be one onof their the own? mixture of Hussein.reached theEd highestand I were of the so crownsfortunate.” which theShe bar/bat believed mitzvah in (I the forgot bold which, collective it was movement.focused on going over with every buyer line raindropsOf course, and tearsthe correct that fell answer the night is that of he Her wore family proudly was and her yet withheart. a touchShe ofmore Federation than 30 years and ago)ofknew onethat of together his loyal by lineShe on spoke their sales about sheets, the unitya dreary of taskthe itsthere dedication is no one as she,to equal Ed and Albert others Boscov. from consideredof humbleness a — better the crown world, of a goodher weemployee’s could child. mobilize He attended ܁nancial because and social Jewishin itself, orworld so it seemedthat resulted to me, the in goals the ourUnique community as a businessman, donned their construction he created responsibilityname, a golden and reputation life — a— all special the days reward. resourceshis employees that were could family rescue to him. Jews, I of Operationand purpose Solomon of their effortsrescue and mission what theythat hatsthe Boscov and toured empire; the uniquevast and in importanthis being Iof think his life.those of us who knew Alma were strengthencourse extended the myJewish hand topeople reply to and our tookhad hopedplace toin achieveMay 1991. in New The Yorkstate City. of structure.a benefactor of all worthwhile Jewish the Alberttruly the Boscov fortunate was ones. the role model for literally,introduction change and the wish world. him and Eunice Israel,Albert, togetherlike all great with men Jewish realized Federation that not endeavorsAt home in in our Berks community County, and the beyond, JCC’s us allAlma in accomplishing Lakin passed theaway ultimate Aug. in27 our at a goodThe ongoing Shabbos. turbulence It never in happened.the Middle ofonly North was America’s “G-d to be major found partners in the details” on the Lakinand unique Early Educationin the secular Center world preschool in all of theheritage age of and 82. tradition and that is Kiddush Before my hand had the opportunity to but business success as well. his philanthropy in that arena as well. I HaShem, the public sanctification of the clasp his, I was already embraced by one Often times when I met with Christian remember when a picture of him was on name of G-d. of his warm, friendly and sincere hugs. clergy, they were very interested in Albert a large poster on Route 422, on the Albert May his noble deeds speak for him in FederationWhenever we encountered each mission other Boscov. I answered to Israel their questions begins to Boscov Highway. Oct. It was a well-deserved 21 front of the divine throne of the Almighty from that time forth, he always embraced the best of my ability giving the history honor. and when my time comes I anticipate meA with joint one missionof those friendly composed hugs. of chairedof which by IMichael had been and Susan made Fromm aware. and But BerksThe County Mishna will teaches be joining that the there group are purposebeing greeted and byheightened him once again,appreciation not with communityOn one membersoccasion, fromI managed the Reading to hug Victorthere and was Dena more Hammel. to it than In theaddition simple to onthree the crowns,mission. the crown of Torah, the andthe handshakeconnection butto Jewish rather withidentity. that warm areahim beforeand the he Lehigh hugged Valley me. willThis leave incident for Mitgang,questioning. Jayne Clearly, Kleinman, as Cultural it appeared Center to crownThe ofReading Priesthood Jewish and community the crown has of hugMission of friendship, participants concern, will visit generosityReading’s Israelwas a Oct. big 21.surprise to me and to Albert. programme, they weredirector literally and jealous Mark thatGoldstein, he was bene܁tedKingship; from and the teaming crown withof a good the name seasoned Israeland kindness Now of which projects he was so— famous. two important Because,For the when Reading it came community, to expressing it is the his Executiveone of us, Director that he of was Jewish an MOT,Federation that heof mission-goers(an excellent reputation)from the Allentown is above allarea of humanitarianMay his soul efforts be bound that with both the saveRock ܁rstsincere mission warmth andthe friendship, Federation he was has ledin thewas Lehigh our member, Valley will a proud staff the and mission. distinctly andthem. Lehigh There Valleyis an obvious Federation’s question, “well- the andof Eternal change Life lives and may — his Yemin memory Orde be Youth moreindeed than “the 15 fastest years. hug A goal in the of FederationWest” (and JewishRabbi member Brian and Michelson why they were from not oiled”Mishna mission states process. there are three crowns, Villagea blessing in the for Carmel us all. Mountains and Meir Presidentin the East Tammy too). Mitgang and Federation Congregationblessed with his Oheb equal. Sholom This is and not meantRabbi but“Mark actually Goldstein there areand fourhis staff according have Panim’sRabbi new Joel Weintraubnutrition center led Kesher in Kiryat Zion leadership,We all recognized the Reading that hemission was a titanis co- in Yosefto be a Lipsker, criticism, Chabad-Lubavitchas there are jealousies of createdto the Mishna over the itself, years “the a network crown of of a Gat,Synagogue where thefrom community 1982 to 2006. will dedicate 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.It’s And, Simcha we are neighbors. Supplement The The dedication will be atime big thank you AA newspapernewspaper servingserving thethe JewishJewish communitycommunity ofof Reading,Reading, Pennsylvania,Pennsylvania, mission project is just the start of future to our community and a proud moment. and published monthly, September through June, under the Jewish and published monthly, September through June, under the Jewish jointIf efforts,”you had Mitgang or are said. having a bar/batWith mitzvahtwo out or of graduation every ܁ve children in FederationFederation ofof Reading.Reading. FundedFunded byby thethe ReadingReading UnitedUnited JewishJewish Campaign.Campaign. There are many details that need Israel living below the poverty line, to be(high addressed school when or moving higher) a group in your Meir family Panim’s thisnetwork Jewish of soup year,kitchens, GeneralGeneral Offices:Offices: 11001100 BerkshireBerkshire Blvd.,Blvd., SuiteSuite 125125 of moreshare than 50 the people good across news Israel. with restaurants the community. and feeding Pleasecenters, ensure Wyomissing, PA 19610 Wyomissing, PA 19610 Jewishsubmit Federation a few of North sentences America’s aboutwarm, the nutritious person meals and for thousands their of Phone:Phone: 610-921-0624610-921-0624 FAX:FAX: 610-929-0886610-929-0886 Missions Department and its staff in children and families every day. WebWeb site:site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.orgwww.ReadingJewishCommunity.org Israel along withaccomplishment, Kenes Tours will further alongAt Yemin with Orde, a photo. the group is anxious to ensure that each and every day of the see ܁rsthand the progress that has been Jewish Federation of Reading Jewish Federation of Reading mission is maximized. made at the village since the wild܁res Chairman: Alvin Katz Text and photos can be sent to [email protected] or to Chairman: Haia Mazuz Federation missions are travel devastated it in 2010. President: Tammy K. Mitgang President: William D. Franklin experiences unlike any other.the Federation Along The office. group is honored that Chaim Peri, Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor with visits to historic and sacred sites, beloved educator and director of Yemin Proofreaders: Esther Strauss & Federation staff Proofreaders: Federation staff museums and popular touristDEADLINE destinations, ISOrde APRIL for 30 years, 30. will personally be hosting Member: American Jewish Press Association Member: American Jewish Press Association Federation missions provide exclusive, the group during a tour and lunch. The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading insider WEaccess CANNOT to residents, GUARANTEE community Young PUBLICATION people from the village OF will join Deadline for the November issue is Oct. 5 leaders, area experts, and political the group for the tour and share their Next deadline, April 5 personalitiesITEMS and provide SUBMITTED a sense of experiences.AFTER DEADLINE Page 4 SHALOM April 2017 Double feature, early start time at April Jewish Film Series event By Amanda J. Hornberger Israeli Cuisine” will play at 7:10 p.m. The future of Israeli Cuisine. For the first time the Reading Jewish film is a portrait of the Israeli people told After the screening of the two films, Film Series will show a double feature on through food. The film’s chef and guide is there will be a facilitated discussion with Wednesday, April 5, at FOX EAST. The Michael Solomonov, a James Beard Award Elsayed Elmarzouky of the Islamic Center two films will be presented in conjunction winning chef and co-owner of acclaimed of Reading and Haia Mazuz of the Jewish with the Islamic Center of Reading and Zahav in Philadelphia. In 2011 he made Federation of Reading. “Women in Sink” were chosen because they highlight the an appearance at a Jewish Federation and “In Search of Israeli Cuisine” will be humanity and common ground behind the of Reading Leadership Gifts event at the shown on Wednesday, April 5 at 6:30 p.m. cultural and religious divide between Israel home of Sandy Solmon and Douglas at FOX EAST, 4350 Perkiomen Avenue, and its neighbors. Messinger, where he cooked a memorable Reading (next to Boscov’s East). If you are Because of the double feature, we meal for those in attendance. unable to make the first film at 6:30 p.m. will start our first film at 6:30 p.m., earlier The filmmakers follow Mike into hot guests will be permitted to enter before the than usual, with ticket sales beginning at restaurants and home kitchens, wineries start of the second film at 7:10 p.m. 6 p.m. We’ll begin with “Women in Sink,” and cheese makers, street food vendors The 2017 Reading Jewish Film Series a British-Israeli documentary short set in and markets. The food traditions are is co-sponsored by the Rubin Educational The final flim in this year’s series will be an Arab hair salon in Haifa. Both Arab and incredibly diverse: Moroccan, Persian, Fund of the Jewish Federation of Reading “Apples from the Desert,” to be screened Jewish women frequent the salon and chat Lebanese, French, Italian, Russian, and Fox Theatres. Admission is $5. May 17. with the director (who is shampooing their Jewish, Arab, Palestinian, Christian, and hair!) about politics and love. Druze, kosher and non-kosher, secular and Second in the double feature, the religious. All over the country, he discusses Holocaust Memorial Day 2017 American documentary “In Search of traditions, ingredients, the origins, and the By Amanda J. Hornberger “Rose Under Fire” is a young adult In honor of Holocaust Memorial novel based on real experiences of Greater Reading Encore Chorus Day, Yom Hashoah, Jewish Federation women in Ravensbrück Concentration of Reading will hold commemorative Camp during the Holocaust. The book presents ‘And So I Sing’ at RCOS candle lighting and readings by our local was adapted for the stage by community Holocaust survivors and survivor family member Vicki Haller Graff. A facilitated The Greater Reading Encore Rutt and accompanied by Bonnie members at The Highlands on Monday, discussion and light reception will follow Chorus will present a free concert Levan. Several RCOS members sing April 24, at 7 p.m. The community is the performance. “And So I Sing” on Sunday, May 7 at with this group. invited to The Highlands Cultural Center This event is free and open to the 2 p.m. at Reform Congregation Oheb Encore Chorus is composed of for the candle lighting and readings, community. I hope you will join us at The Sholom. The program will feature singers age 55 or older. The only which will be followed by a performance Highlands at 7 p.m. on Monday, April songs commemorating Memorial Day, other requirement for members is that by the Reading Theatre Project based on 24 as we remember the Holocaust and pieces reflecting both Jewish and they love to sing. Similar choruses the book, “Rose Under Fire.” honor those who survived. Christian traditions, and a medley exist all over the United States, the from “Fiddler On the Roof.” program having been started in 2007 Obituary Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and The chorus is directed by David in Washington DC. formerly of Reading. Marc served in Mildred (Resnick) Lickstein, 94 the Marine Corp during World War II of Boynton Beach, Fla., and formerly and the Korean War. Afterwards he ran Purim Carnival fun at JCC of Reading. Micki was a member the Heather Shop with his mother and of Kesher Zion Synagogue and sister and subsequently worked as a volunteered as Gift Shop Chairman. Realtor. He is survived by his children She is survived by sons: Leslie Andrea Claster Greenspan, Michele Lickstein and his wife, Barbara, and Jacobson, Max Claster and Jennifer Scott and his wife, Catherine. There Claster. Other survivors include his are also six grandchildren and seven two grandchildren Ben and Sam great-grandchildren. Greenspan. Marc was predeceased --- by his sister Phyllis (Claster) Goldstan. Marcus Henry Claster, 91, of

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By Amanda J. Hornberger April 19, the Jewish Federation of Reading will host a Jews during the Holocaust. Jewish Federation of Reading is pleased to special post-film discussion with Jennifer Koosed, Ph.D., Tickets (general $9.50, seniors $6.75) can be announce a special post-film discussion following a 6:45 professor of Religious Studies and Holocaust Studies purchased in advance at foxshowtimes.com and at the pm screening of the new film “The Zookeeper’s Wife” at Albright College. Dr. Koosed teaches a course on FOX EAST box office during regular business hours or on Wednesday, April 19 at FOX EAST, located at 4350 Religious Responses to the Holocaust as part of the on the day of the event. Perkiomen Ave., Reading, PA (next to Boscov’s East). Holocaust Studies minor at Albright College. She will be We welcome all members of the community to join “The Zookeeper’s Wife,” starring two-time Academy discussing the role of righteous Gentiles as rescuers of us for this special event! Award nominee Jessica Chastain, is the real-life story of a working wife and mother who became a hero to hundreds during World War II. In 1939 Poland, Antonina Żabińska (Chastain) and her husband, Dr. Upcoming events in the community Jan Żabiński (Johan Heldenbergh) run the Warsaw Zoo, which flourishes under his stewardship and her care. When their country is invaded by the Germans, Jan and Antonina are stunned and forced to report to the Reich’s newly appointed chief zoologist, Lutz Heck. To fight back on their own terms, the Żabińskis covertly begin working with the Resistance and put into action plans to save lives out of what has become the Warsaw For more information on any of these events please call 610-921-0624. Ghetto, with Antonina putting herself and even her children at great risk. Sun Apr 2, 2017 Following the 6:45pm screening on Wednesday, 10:30 am What’s Jewish about Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer? Where: Penn State Berks, 1800 Broadcasting Rd, Reading, PA 19610 Holding U.N. to account Preregistration required at www.readingjewishcommunity.org after decades of bias 2pm Cancer Genetics and the Jewish Family By Ben Cohen Where: 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610 For those worrying about the thrust of the foreign policy of a future Trump administration, President Donald Trump’s address to Congress Feb. 28 provided welcome relief. Wed Apr 5, 2017 Though details were scarce, the underlying message was clear — Trump correctly identified “radical Islamic 6:30 pm Reading Jewish Film Series: Women in Sink & In Search of Israeli Cuisine terror” as America’s prime enemy, and yet spoke of the Where: Fox East, 4350 Perkiomen Ave, Reading, PA 19606 importance of our “Muslim allies,” thereby offering a clear indication that we are not at war with Islam as a whole. The president spoke with enthusiasm of America’s Sun Apr 9, 2017 key alliance with Israel. He also reinforced the importance of NATO, pointing 10 am PJ Library at Reading Public Museum out that the alliance was forged in the bonds of two Where: Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Rd, Reading, PA 19611 World Wars and the Cold War, emphasizing the shared experience of fighting totalitarianism that remains the Tue Apr 11, 2017 foundation of our alliances from the Atlantic to the Pacific. It is right that we recognize the value of our historic JCC Closed for Passover alliance with our fellow democracies. But affirming those principles shouldn’t blind us to those international Wed Apr 12, 2017 institutions that have dominated the post-World War II global order but are in sore need of dramatic reform. JCC Closed for Passover The United Nations wasn’t featured as a topic in Trump’s address, but his new U.N. ambassador, Mon Apr 17, 2017 Nikki Haley, has been making bold efforts to revitalize America’s support for Israel. JCC Closed for Passover Haley has made clear her distaste for the U.N.’s systemic bias against Israel, and the Trump administration Tue Apr 18, 2017 is reconsidering its participation in the U.N. Human Rights Council (UNHRC), since its raison d’etre seems to be JCC Closed for Passover condemning Israel. At the same time, UNHRC has prevented grievous Thu Apr 20, 2017 human rights abusers, from Venezuela to Saudi Arabia, from serving as members and participating in its 7 pm JFR Board Meeting decisions. Where: 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610 But issues with the United Nations go well beyond the UNHRC. More than 40 years ago, the U.N. General Assembly passed the Soviet-inspired Resolution 3379, Mon Apr 24, 2017 equating Zionism with racism — a resolution that was rescinded in 1991. The same day, the Committee Where:7 pm Yom The Hashoah Highlands Event at Wyomissing, 2000 Cambridge Ave, Wyomissing, PA 19610 on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Where: The Highlands at Wyomissing, 2000 Cambridge Ave, Wyomissing, PA 19610 Palestinian People was created. The committee makes it unambiguously clear that the “inalienable rights” that Mon May 1, 2017 it represents include “exercise by Palestinians of their Mon May 1, 2017 inalienable right to return to their homes and property 7 pm Yom Hazikaron/Yom Ha'atzmaut Event from which they have been displaced and uprooted.” Where:7 pm Yom Reform Hazikaron/Yom Congregation Ha'atzmaut Oheb Sholom, Event 555 Warwick Dr, Wyomissing, PA 19610 Note the terminology used here — not “Palestinian Where: Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, 555 Warwick Dr, Wyomissing, PA 19610 refugees of the 1948 war,” but all Palestinians, including those born after 1948 in the Arab world, in Europe, in Wed May 17, 2017 North America and in Latin America. Wed May 17, 2017 It doesn’t take tremendous insight to realize that it is a 7 pm Reading Jewish Film Series: Apples from the Desert formula for the elimination of Jewish sovereignty in the land Where:7 pm Reading Fox East, Jewish 4350 F ilmPerkiomen Series: Apples Ave, Reading, from the PA Desert 19606 of Israel — the very same formula that drives the BDS hate Where: Fox East, 4350 Perkiomen Ave, Reading, PA 19606 campaign against Israel and gives it the undeserved gloss Thu May 18, 2017 of human rights. This committee continues today to churn Thu May 18, 2017 out an endless stream of anti-Israel propaganda through 7 pm JFR Board Meeting international conferences and publications. Where:7 pm JFR 1100 Board Berkshire Meeting Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610 Thus, after decades of bias, it is time for the entire Where: 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610 world to take notice and hold the U.N. accountable. Mon May 29, 2017 Ben Cohen is a Senior Editor at The Tower Magazine Mon May 29, 2017 and the Director of Coalitions at The Israel Project. JCC Closed for Memorial Day Publications he has written for include Commentary, JCC Closed for Memorial Day The Wall Street Journal, Ha’aretz and Tablet. He Wed May 31, 2017 writes a weekly column for JNS.org, a news agency Wed May 31, 2017 serving the Jewish media. Follow him on Twitter @ JCC Closed for Shavuot BenCohenOpinion. JCC Closed for Shavuot Page 6 SHALOM April 2017 Israel Book Club meets in April Page  Shalom March 2010 By Amanda J. Hornberger condescending approach to Arabs and Exploring the role of Middle Eastern Muslims, that the region can at long last Communitycountries News is the topic of the latest selection look forward to a real “spring.” for the JCC Israel Book Club. In his book We’ll be meeting to discuss the book “The Tail Wags the Dog: International and select our next book on Thursday, April PoliticsObituaries and the Middle East,” Efraim Karsh 13, at Bill and Andi Franklin’s home, 1110 argues that the Western view of Muslims Fairview Ave., Apartment 4, Wyomissing. and ArabsLucy asSuzanne hapless victims Knoblauch is absurd. L. (Sulman)“The Tail Moyer.Wags the He Dog:is also International survived OnZeidman the contrary,, 96, Wyomissing. modern Middle Eastern byPolitics his daughters, and the Middle Aileen East” D., widow can be historySurviving has been are the culminationa son, Bruce of long- F., offound Neal at H. the Endy, Exeter of PublicPennside, Library and along E. existinghusband indigenous of Geraldine trends. L. Zeidman, of Roxanne,with Amazon.com wife of Les and Walker, other of major Batavia book Shillington;Karsh argues a brother, that Harry it is Knoblauch, only when Ohio;retailers. sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine Middlehusband Eastern of Edith Knoblauch, people disown of Reading; their K. Moyer,If you have of Sinkingquestions Spring or would and like Jay more victimizationa sister, Ruth Balis mentality of Wyomissing; and take and H.,information husband about of Margaret the JCC Israel R. Moyer, Book Clubof responsibilityseveral nieces forand their nephews. actions, and Muhlenbergplease contact Township. Amanda Other at amandah@ survivors their Western champions--- drop their arejfreading.org grandchildren: or 610-921-0624. Brett A. Endy, Chad Irene S. Zeidman, 62, Wyomissing. M. Endy and Elizabeth K. Moyer; and She is survived by her brother Bruce great-grandchildren, Carson N., Logan Images from F.,PJ husband Library of Geraldine explores L. Zeidman C.,Thomas Ardyn N. and Ava the L. Endy Train! of Shillington. --- Yemin Orde By Amanda J. Hornberger --- day.Shirley RSVP isRobinson required withof B’nai payment B’rith by Area resident and recent college KidsRobert and Berger parents, 54, are Reading. invited to a Apartments.April 1. Survived by her Friendship graduate Jessica Flamholz sent us specialHe PJwas Library the former event spouseat the Reading of Lea CircleAll friends. children are welcome! This Cooking kreplach atthese Chabad pictures from her recent visit PublicBerger, Museum Reading. on He Sunday, is survived April by 9! event is free for ---kids courtesy of PJ to Yemin Orde, an Israeli village Ourtwo groupdaughters, will haveMolly earlyR. Berger, access State to Library of Reading which, 95, is generouslyformerly The latest installment of Chabad’s series of cooking classes featured a lesson in Louis Malamud for children and youth supported theCollege, museum and for aBethany personal S. tour Berger, of the ofsupported Temple. He by is the survived Sue by B. a Viener son, how to make kreplach. by our Federation. ThomasReading; the and Train one exhibit brother, including Dr. Barry a craft M. Mitchel,Memorial husband Fund. of Laura Malamud, andBerger, story husband time. of Kathleen A. Vieweg, of LasPlease Vegas; RSVP grandchildren to Brenda at brendas@ Barry Boston,Admission Mass. is free for children and husbandjfreading.org of Johna or 610-921-0624 Malamud, Deborah by April the cost for adults ---is $6, which include Babbit-Malamud1. For additional and information Sheri Malamud; or any All Around the Town______admission David to Moyer the museum, 85, Reading. for the entire andquestions great-grandchildren: please contact Jessy Amanda. Babbit, By MazelJoan G. tov Friedman to parents Korissa andBadal Russell, who has Farbiarz received onthe the honor birth of He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Carly Malmud and Ian Malamud. QuinterCongratulations and Chad to Schlanger Korey Blanck, big onbeing Noah chosen Eli Farbiarz as the Child on MarchAdvocate 12. of andbrother to EdithLawrence, Blanck and on grandmother the birth of the Year for the State*** of Pennsylvania. theirSue Schlangernew granddaughter on the birth and of great- Ari J Congratulations*** to Molly LeftPlan for vs.your Bar/Bat Right Mitzvah Debate & Wedding Guests! granddaughter!Schlanger. NemirowBest wishes, daughter to our Berksof Geri County and ****** Markathletes Nemirow, competing on in winning the 2010 the Maccabi Holly Mazel Tov tov to to the parents Bluestone Stephanie Family: Altenderfer-NancyGames: Voigt Middle rescheduledShalom at Newspaper the JCC (Joan Friedman) Toand David Kevin and Sutorius Marianna and grandmotheron their new SchoolEmily Voice& Jared Scholarship Baksic, swimming from daughterDebbie Cieplinskiand to grandparents on the Ericbirth and of theAndrew Reading Blickle Musical, basketball Foundation By Amanda J. Hornberger magazine The Jerusalem Report, will5” (2 col.) x 7” Marissa.Piper Katherine. andMatthew for being Eisenberg named, toswimming the Junior Two expert journalists will be be the debate participants. Questions? *** *** HighHannah County and Chorus Alexis by Glassmire the Music, in Reading on Thursday, May 4, to ContactJoin us Jodi for Gibble, an interactive Marketing Director Congratulations to to Charles Steve andand Educatorsswimming of Berks County. discuss the issues facing Israel, one conversation on Israel with Tobin BrendaAleta Cohn Diamond on the on birth the engagementof their son WeBrandon love good Missan news, soccerabout members of from theREADING right side, the other the and Goldberg The on May Highlands 4 at 7 p.m. at Wyomissing ofAriel. their Delighted son Brett grandparents and to grandfather are Stu Al our community! Please share it by emailing left and2801 exchange Papermill Road real solutions for2000 at Cambridge the JCC. Following Ave., aWyomissing, moderated PA 1910 . [email protected]. Diamondand Carol. Cohn peace.Wyomissing, The event Pennsylvania was rescheduled conversation the audience will be *** 10-288-3405 *** Until next time: Shalom! from its original March date due to a able to ask questions at this free Mazel TovTov to to Rosalind Alexa Antanavage Hyman and Until[Email allnext your time:simcha newsShalom! to joan@ snowstorm.GROUP RATES AVAILABLE event. Questions will be accepted her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman friedman.net] Jonathan S. Tobin, senior online that evening or prior to the event editorCall Alice and chieffor a Site political Tour blogger via email to Amanda at amandah@ of Commentary magazine, and J. jfreading.org. KEEP UP WITH THE COMMUNITY J. Goldberg, editor-at-large of the The event is free, but RSVPs are (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Visit www.readingjewishcommunity.org Forward newspaper and former encouraged to Brenda at Brendas@ U.S. bureau chief of the Israeli news jfreading.org or 610-921-0624. II hadhad nono idea!idea! ou’ve worked hard to accumulate your wealth. We hearreform this congregationagain and again from residents of The Highlands. oheb sholom presents 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 We Finally Have A New privacy at The Highlands. investment management to custom credit solutions, President…Now What? • I don’t worry about my future. deposit products and more. 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SUNDAY, APRIL 23, 2017 - 2:30 PM If you’reshabbat exploring service options at and7:00 choices pm for yourspeaker/oneg retirement years, at 8:00 be sure pm to call us for a tour. You too can be a part of this wonderfulMr. Whitman lifestyle. will present We in the have Social every- Hall during the oneg for about 45 minutes. The Speaker Series is for adults only. Babysitting is available for free for children 1.866.332.8393 thingages from 2-8 a and studio tweens apartment ages 9-13 with to gracious a reservation by calling the office by Friday, cottages.April 14th, We 610 would 375-6034. love Appreciation to meet youis extended to Sisterhood for supporting clermontwealth.com and answerthe Speaker your Series questions. onegs. RSVP is a must by April 18 to [email protected] or 610-334-1577 Securities and Insurance Products: Not FDIC-Insured • Not Insured by any Federal Government Agency Call for lunch and a tour today. 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EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ April 2017 SHALOM Page 7 Profiles in Leadership: Michele & Ben Leisawitz Profiles in Leadership is a series of articles to help the community get to know board members of the Jewish Federation of Reading along with their families and why they actively participate in our community. We hope it inspires you and others to become more involved with our programs and in shaping the future of our Jewish community. This month – Michele and Ben Leisawitz.

Who were your greatest influences Ben: Its rich tradition is the most in shaping your Jewish identity? significant aspect of our local Jewish Michele: Without question, my family, community. Times and circumstances especially my grandparents, Sidney and have changed, yet we are faced with a Esther Bratt. Both are Holocaust survivors unique opportunity to focus our efforts to and made it a point to instill in our family strengthen the community once again. how important it is to have a strong Jewish Sure, it may call for creative thinking, identity. Growing up, my parents, Jay and and certainly some compromise, but it’s Evelyn Lipschutz, always worked hard to essential that we understand that our make sure that we had Shabbat dinners, similarities are more important to our a Jewish education and a true sense of continued vitality than the manner in which what it is, and how fortunate we are, to be we each specifically identify (e.g., Reform, Jews. Ben and I strive to do the same for Conservative, Orthodox). I don’t at all Leah and Adam. suggest that how one identifies should be Ben: My parents, Elliott and Doris compromised. I only suggest that uniting Leisawitz, and grandparents, Paul and as a community is uplifting and should Harriett Leisawitz and Irvin and Catherine be celebrated. To me, it’s being among Persky, were all instrumental in shaping my Jewish people that makes me feel the Jewish identity — each in different ways. power of Kavannah (it’s amazing what Michele and her family have also been the rabbi teaches the kids (and adults) at tremendously influential. Tot Shabbat). Perhaps, down the road, What led to your involvement with a Jewish campus where we can share the local Jewish community? certain resources and rejoice together, Michele: Judaism has always been Ben: My parents and grandparents What is most significant to you yet maintain our individual beliefs, would extremely important to me — in both the instilled in my brothers and me the about our Jewish community here in be a wonderful place for our local Jewish religious and communal sense. I attended importance of being active in the local Reading? community to call home a Jewish Day School, participated in both Jewish community and to take great pride Michele: From my personal experience, What are your hopes for your USY and BBYO, spent summers at Camp in our faith. Now, raising our family locally, I have found that there are a large number children and the Jewish community? Ramah and was the president of Hillel at almost all of our social activities involve the of young families that are excited about our Michele: My hope is that their Franklin & Marshall College. Since moving Jewish community. Michele became friends community’s future. Lakin Preschool, PJ excitement for Judaism continues to to Reading, I have made a conscious with a wonderful group of women associated Library and Tot Shabbat have brought the flourish. I love when Leah and Adam effort to get involved with the local Jewish with the Jewish community. Fortunately for young families together. Our Jewish nursery explain to Ben and me why we eat apples community. Everyone made that so easy me, all of the significant others get along, as school is a treasure and continues to play and honey on Rosh Hashanah, discuss and welcomed me, and many others, with well. The group is incredibly inclusive and an important role in our children’s lives. what outfits they will be wearing on Purim open arms. Although being a part of a welcomes everyone to be a part of it. And I have made such amazing friendships, or wake us by their voices singing Bim Bam smaller Jewish community forces us each it’s not just our group, we’ve found that the and it’s clear that our generation is eager across the hallway. They learn so much to work a bit harder, it also provides us with entire community is a pleasure and joy to be to take on leadership roles and carry on from Lakin Preschool, Tot Shabbat and the opportunity to get involved and make around. Case in point — the Purim Ball at the incredible work of past leaders in the Torah Tots, etc. Our home, like many of a difference. My goal is to help foster an Stokesay Castle in March was a great time community. The number of young/new our friends’ homes, is constantly filled with environment that instills Jewish values, had by all! Make sure to mark it on your Jewish families that have been willing to Jewish songs, stories and little anecdotes. identity and unity, within our community. calendars for next year! become involved is extremely encouraging. Ben: I agree with Michele 100 percent.

Purim at Chabad Introduce your child to the joy of Shabba t! Tot Join us Shabbatis a musical, story-filled, interactive hour for children through grade 2. Bring your family next time! & friends to celebrate with Rabbi Michelson April 22nd and stay for a pint-sized oneg of juice, challah, fruit, and child-friendly treats. at 10 am

Members and non-members are invited. No registration is required. Tot Shabbat services are held Saturday mornings at 10:00 am at Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, 555 Warwick Drive, Wyomissing unless noted. Please call the Purim celebrations at Chabad Temple office with any questions, included a New York-themed 610.375.6034. celebration on the day of the holiday, above, along with a class just for kids on the art of making hamantashen leading Our final Tot Shabbat of the up to the big day. season will take place on May 13th

Please support our advertisers Page 8 SHALOM April 2017 Jewish Agency upping security in communities around world The Jewish Agency for Israel, taking the funding upon itself. which usually deals with immigration Today, thanks to the fund, there are 23 to Israel and Zionism among Jewish additional trained Jewish security guards in communities around the world, has been Jewish schools around France. funding security measures for Jewish The fund decided against purchasing communities over the past four years in weapons and instead has been focusing light of the rise in anti-Semitic incidents. on security measures and protection. “We So far 110 synagogues, 80 schools are helping Jews protect themselves. It is and preschools, andPage 75 18 community important to note that the Agency is not SHALOM October 2016 centers are among the projects taken responsible for the safety of Jews in the on by The Jewish Agency’sPage Emergency 4 Diaspora, but in a climate of fear, Jews SHALOM December 2014 Assistance Fund for Jewish Communities. simply do not frequent the community’s Meanwhile 115 communities have establishments. Jewish life cannot thrive secured the entrancesSeptember to buildings, 902015 or, in some cases, even exist. We do not SHALOM Page 5 communities installed closed-circuit want Jews to make Aliyah out of fear, but television systems, fences were built rather out of a sense of attachment and Rock Shabbat at Oheb Sholom around 50 Jewish community facilities, belonging, which is a large part of why we and 30 institutions installed gates and would like to ensure the safe participation Former student cantor Joanna Alexander returned to RCOS on March 17 for a service with a special musical flair. padlocks for the safety of the community’sPage 4 of Jews in Jewish and Zionist activities.” SHALOM December 2014 population thanks to the Fund’s support. In addition, protective equipment was donated to numerous communities. The Fund was set up following the Toulouse terror attack in 2012, which claimed the lives of a teacher and three students at a Jewish school. The terrorist entered the school freely, without any security measures — a gate, a camera, a guard, or a screening booth — to stop him. It was Natan Sharansky, the chairman of The Jewish Agency, who initiated the establishment of the fund. “We know that a terrorist looking to harm Jews will look for the easiest target, and any security measure standing in his way will contribute to deterrence,” explained Josh Schwarcz, The Jewish Agency’s secretary-general, who directs the Emergency Assistance Fund. “We asked ourselves which other communities worldwide face similar situations and how many such schools do not have the means to protect themselves.SERVE WARM MEALS. This took place at the same time as the rise in global anti-Semitism, the return of ISIS fighters from Syria DELIVERand Iraq to MEDICINES. Europe, a rise in the level of threats, and Be the number of murderous terror attacks.FEED SERVE THE WARM HUNGRY. MEALS. In coordination with the government,GIVE we Be HUGS TO SENIORS decided to set up the fund for Jewish DELIVER MEDICINES. communities, based on the core valueGIVE that Be HOPE TO THOUSANDS. ‘all Israel are responsible for one another,’” app Schwarcz continued. A WORLDFEED THE HUNGRY. AWAYWe‘re . The fund collects contributions GIVEh HUGSapp TO SENIORSier from Jewish donors around the world, GIVE HOPE TOwi THOUSANDS.h ur r fl ion. without any Israeli governmental funding.SECURE happt THEyo FUTURE.eierect So far it has helped more than 200 A WORLD AWAY. Jewish communities and organizations hIt’s Rosh Hashanah. Thewi time whent weh all needyo to ur ierreflection. worldwide, and allotted millions for OPENOPEN take a deeper look. security measures in those communities. SECUREwi h THEur r FUTURE.fl ion. It’s Rosh Hashanah. Thet THIStime when PASSOVER yowe all need LET’S to OPEN e ect Any Jewish community interested in If you’d like to brighten your reflection, here’s an inside tip. take a deeper look. receiving monetary assistance BEFORE needs Give to Federation. You’llOUR be nurturing DOORS and AND sustaining OUR ourHEARTS people to submit a detailed application via the It’s Rosh Hashanah. The time when we all need to Ifwherever you’d like they’re to brighten in need. your Helping reflection, thousands here’s to anconnect inside totip. their internet, specifying its needs: a fence,BEFORE take a deeper look. TO COMMUNITY. Jewish identity wherever there’s a longing. cameras, gates, screening booths, BEFOREGive to Federation. You’ll be nurturing and sustaining our people If you’d likewherever to brighten they’re your in need. reflection, Helping here’s thousands an inside to connecttip. to their concrete obstacles, bulletproof glass, In fact, you’ll be sweetening the new year BEFOREGive to Federation.Jewish identity You’ll wherever be nurturing there’s and a longing.sustaining our people To hang this from intercom and locking systems, and so on. for our entire global Jewish community. Security officers working on behalfYOUR of wherever they’re in need. HelpingBy thousands helping to toconnect enrich to their Jewish life InPlease fact, give you’ll as be generously sweetening as youthe newcan. year your door just cut the fund visit the community to examine Jewish identity wherever there’s a longing. When you look in the mirror,and you’ll lending a hand to those along the dotted line. its request. Many times the security officer YOURfor our entire global Jewish community. YOUdefinitely like what you see!in need — we’ll be opening discovers that the request was simply In fact, you’llPlease be give sweetening as generously the new as yearyou can. for our entireWhen global you look Jewish in the community. mirror, you’llour Jewish future too. impractical. For instance, one community YOUwww.JewishFederations.org asked to install 20 cameras, but theALARM officer Please givedefinitely as generously like what as youyou can. see! Please give to the Jewish reached the conclusion that a much When you look in the mirror, you’llFederation of Reading. You’ll be www.JewishFederations.org smaller number would be sufficient. ALARM definitely like what you see! helping your community at home The fund decided not to subsidize guards FINISHwww.JewishFederations.org and around the world for Jewish institutions for financial reasons: in France alone there are 700 Jewish institutions, FINISH and the cost of hiring guards for eachGOES one OFF. would be prohibitive. GOES OFF. There was one exception, though: after the terror attack in the HyperCacherIt only takes a few minutes to help seniors stay connected to community and continue living in their own homes, It only takes a few minutes to help seniors stay connected to community and continue living in their own homes, kosher supermarket in Paris,Meanwhile,BREAKFAST.It theonly takes you’ll a few nurture minutes Jewish to change learning, lives in fund our communityfood banks, and offer around job thetraining world. Food— just banksa few forof the needy,solutions care Fed- community experienced tremendous Meanwhile,BREAKFAST.It only takes you’ll a few nurture minutes Jewish to change learning, lives in fund our communityfood banks, and offer around job thetraining world. Food— just banksa few forof the needy,solutions care Fed- for seniors, Israel experiences for the young — these are just some of the solutions Federation supports with heart, eration supportsfor seniors, with Israel heart,experiences innovation for the young and decades— these are of just knowing some of thewhat solutions works. Federation It’s time: supports Donate. with Volunteer. heart, Get anxiety, and there was a serious lackinnovation of eration and supports decades with of knowingheart, innovation what works. and decadesSeize the of moment: knowing Donate. what works. Volunteer. It’s time: Get Donate. involved. Volunteer. Get trained Jewish security guards. involved.innovationYour link and to gettingdecadesVisit ofstarted: knowingwww.readingjewishcommunity.org JewishFederations.org what works. Seize the moment: Donate. Volunteer. and donate Get involved. today. Your linkinvolved. to gettingYour linkstarted: to getting JewishFederations.org started: JewishFederations.org The fund decided to distribute Your link to getting started: JewishFederations.org challenge grants to schools to encourage www.readingjewishcommunity.orgwww.readingjewishcommunity.org the hiring of guards based on a matching THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THETHETHE S TRENGTHS STRENGTHTRENGTH OF OFOF A APEOPLE. PEPEOPLEOPLE . . JeJewishwishFJeJewishwishFederations.org ederations.orgFederation Federation of Reading of Reading system: for every shekel put in by the THTHEETHE P POWEROW POWERER OF OFOF COMMUNITY. COMMUNITY. COMMUNITY. PO Box 14925, Reading PA 19612 THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. jf ederations PO jfederations Box 14925, @jf ederations @jf ederationsReading PA 19612 fund, the community matched it, and after 610-921-0624610-921-0624 three years, the community commits to Please detach and return with payment to Jewish Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading PA 19612 Please detach and return with payment to Jewish Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading PA 19612 I want to help Federation make wishes come true this year. Here’s my tax-deductible gift to support Jewish Federation of Reading’s I want to help Federation2014 make Annual wishes Campaign come trueand makethis year. a world Here’s of difference my tax-deductible both near mygift own to homesupport and Jewishbeyond: Federation of Reading’s 2014 Annual Campaign and make a world of difference both near my own home and beyond: Name______Address______Name______$______amount enclosed Checks payable to Jewish Federation Address______of Reading $______amountCredit Card: ___Discover enclosed ___Mastercard Checks payable ___Visa to Jewish Card Federation#______of Reading Exp. date______Security Code_____ Name on Card:______Signature______Credit Card: ___Discover ___Mastercard ___Visa Card #______Exp. date______Security Code_____ Name on Card:______Signature______April 2017 SHALOM Page 9 Both generations learning at ‘Better Together’ sessions

By Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner people my age, the 70 and older group, Jewish Community High School complain that things were so tough for In our March “Better Together” us and that the younger generations study session, teens and seniors have it so easy. I disagree. took on the serious subject of “Not one Jewish student my age antisemitism as such events was the only Jewish student in a increased recently, whether actual school in Berks County. Although damage or bomb threats or even we were a minority we were never the prank of a swastika put into alone. There was always another a library parking lot in shaving student who shared our history. We cream. Thankfully we learned that interacted with the same people the swastika was indeed just a everyday in all our activities, both prank. Initially we speculated that in and out of school. the seniors had experienced more “I feel sad for these students who antisemitism than the teens — and are the only Jewish student in a it turned out not to be so. school. They do not have the support One of the seniors, Charon system that my generation in Berks Snyder, afterwards sent Rabbi Dov County had. They are dealing with a note, which we have permission more antisemitism than I did. They to share. It speaks not only to have a great deal of inner strength.” the wonderful ambience we have The Reading Jewish Community achieved in our meetings together High School offers a great the identity and values that are supplementing the values of their but also to the mutuality of respect opportunity to students who are still in a process of forming. Here family and synagogue. We are each generation has for the other: often one of a very few Jewish teens they are also able to interact with grateful for the sponsorship and “I have not been able to clear my in a school. It’s not just a socializing Jewish adults who are dedicated support of the Reading Jewish brain of last night’s discussion. Most experience but one of sharing in to their study and their growth, Federation. BDS impact worse than people realize The impact of the Boycott, Divestments noted that while the “Zionism is racism” and Sanctions movement against Israel determination was revoked, the U.N. on US campuses is worse than most has since been used for Israel-bashing. people realize, according to Richard D. “It has been a well-planned attack and Heideman, a Washington-based attorney it continues to this very day … what we who recently was elected president of the face is a mixture of assaults on Israel American Zionist Movement. and the Jewish people, not only verbally In an interview with The Jerusalem but also threats and continued physical Post, Heideman recounted an exchange attacks — not by a formal army, but by he recently had with students at the terrorist organizations and individuals who University of Michigan, where he studied identify with those who prefer to teach years ago.“I was shocked to hear about and practice hate and who do so under the intimidation and threats they receive the guise of freedom-fighting,” Heideman — it’s more than rallies trying to encourage says.“When you’re afraid to wear religious organizations to divest investments in symbols, you don’t enjoy freedom of Israel — it’s really the making of violent religion and when that fear precludes attacks that physically threatens and you — even those who don’t come here intimidates a student body. Some say it’s [to Israel] out of fear — it’s proof of the free speech — I think it’s hate speech and negative results of the concentrated has to be talked down and responded to,” effort to assault and malign Israel and the he said. He believes that such activity is Jewish people. having a damaging effect on the identity of Heideman’s mission is to repair Israel’s young Jewish students and of their views tainted image through truth and advocacy. RCOS hosts regional youth group event of Israel.When you feel intimidated, it “The last time I saw my grandmother thwarts the willingness to speak out freely before she passed away, she said ‘don’t Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom hosted the election of officers for the regional in an exchange of ideas,” he explained. ever forget that at the end of your days all chapter of the National Federation of Temple Youth in March. Lipsker PA 2/26/2014 8:32 PM Page 4 Heideman is one of the foremost legal you will take with you is your good name,’” experts on fighting the BDS movement and he recounts. “The good name of Israel pursuing legal actions on behalf of victims and the Jewish people is very precious,” of terrorism in courts around the world. he stressed. “We have a great challenge Join Chabad of Berks County for an enchanting He also serves as the chairman of the to strengthen the good name of Israel Enhance your seder plate with Israel Forever Foundation and honorary and the Jewish people and of Zionism as president of B’nai B’rith International. a movement that has brought us to this Hand-made Shmurah Matzah! Heideman believes the public opinion time and this place.” Passover Seder Available at Chabad of Berks County war against Israel began decades ago. Heideman seeks to mold a new To order: Call 917-767-0130 ~ Visit www.l-chaim.org/seder Pointing to the 1975 UN “Zionism is forward-looking approach to the racism” resolution, Heideman says one understanding of who the Jewish people must ask what preceded it. “When you is and who Zionists are — “committed to Non Profit Org. take Zionism as a national movement the concept that the Jewish people are U.S. Postage for the re-establishment of the Jewish entitled to a nation-state as the Jewish Chabad of Berks PAID homeland in the land of Israel and people with our homeland re-established 2320 Hampden Blvd Reading, PA Permit No.50 officially have nations of the world adopt in Israel with Jerusalem as its capital. ”He Reading, PA 19604 a resolution that says Zionism is racism, believes focus groups would be helpful you have to ask how Israel came to be in understanding Diaspora views of viewed in such a negative light.” Israel, Judaism and Zionism.“If we’re not He says a major shift in tactics against afraid to ask the questions we can learn Israel came following the country’s a lot about ourselves — I intend to seek victories in the 1967 and 1973 wars.“Those out professionals to find out what has Relive the exodus, discover the eternal who were against Israel as a nation- happened to our good name.” meaning of the Haggadah, and enjoy a state shifted from a strategy of planned He believes a major factor has been community Seder complete with hand- physical attacks to an attack in public the aforementioned continuous “Israel baked Matzah, wine, and a wonderful dinner FirstFirst Seder Seder Night: upon the good name of Israel and the bashing,” asserting that when you spiced with unique and traditional customs. Monday, April 14, 7:30pm good name of the Zionist movement.“In “beat long enough,” it has an impact. Monday, April 10, 1975 when the PLO and other groups “Disaffection from the Jewish community, I Explore the Kabalistic insight of the Second7:30 Seder p.m. Night: and Arab countries were able to get the believe is at the greatest percentage in my number four: Four cups of wine, four sons, Tuesday, April 15, 8:00 pm UN to adopt the resolution, it served as a lifetime and it comes as a result from the four questions and four types of freedom. Suggested donation: platform for assaults in the press, through beating,” Heideman says. “They haven’t Discover the Seder's relevance to today’s Adult, $36; Child: $18 organizations and in world public opinion.” heard or studied the motives and damage modern Jew. Please RSVP by April 10th Heideman believes those who oppose initiated against us by the other side.” For more info and reservations: PleaseSuggested donation:RSVP Israel’s very existence, including Iran and He believes education, particularly of 917-767-0130 Adultby $36,April Child 8$18 the PLO, have been winning that war. the younger generation, is key to arming [email protected] “We have done a terrible job standing Diaspora Jews with the right tools to stand up for our own good name,” he said. He up and respond to the bashing. www.l-chaim.org/seder

000 Page 10 SHALOM April 2017 Congregational News Share this season of rebirth with others By Rabbi Yosef Lipsker warmed by the memories of the gorgeous and he was passionate and excited about This is one of the lessons of Passover. Chabad Center of Berks County spring sun shining on us, the smiles, the music until his final breaths. In fact, hours Our doors are open to those who may Last March I drove laughter and happy times. before his passing, using the remainder need it. My parents lived and breathed the six hours round The thought of the joy I was blessed to of his energy, my father danced to an this all year round. trip to New York City have experienced last spring carries me impromptu kumzitz in his hospital room. Each week, and on every holiday, as to pick my parents through the darkest days, the hard days, My parents poured all their energy, I open my home to those who need a up so that they could the ups and downs, the “winters” of life. money and spirit into providing a home place, I think of my parents, who have join us for the holiday Although we recently found ourselves away from home to visitors from near and instilled me with their strong values; give, of Passover. I was in the throes of a late winter, the message far. Their Brooklyn home was constantly give give, until you can give no more. And celebrating my 50th of Passover is about spring, of rebirth, of packed with guests. then give a little more. birthday over Pesach, and it was very new beginnings. On an average night, you could find As we welcome Passover this year, special to me that my mom and dad could Spring is a reminder to us; stay my mother cooking up a storm until the I invite you to join me on a Passover be a part of this moment in my life. passionate. Keep living. Be lively. wee hours of the morning, only to be mission. Invite someone who has no One year later, my dad is gone. My father was one of the liveliest awake again with the sun, continuing place to be for the Passover Seder meal, I look back at this time last year, and people I had the pleasure of being close her dedication to ensure that anyone and and let them be a part of the rebirth, the I will forever cherish the memories of to. He was a musician by trade, yet it everyone would be comfortable walking living and new beginnings. the final time my parents were able to was always far more than a career for through her doors. Wishing you a happy and joyous be in my home together. My heart is full, him. Music flowed through his very veins, “All who are hungry come and eat.” Passover from Chana and myself. Freedom: Austere and crisp By Rabbi Matthew Abelson jelly-filled hamantaschen of Purim “A season is set for everything… Nevertheless Purim is a minor holiday; Kesher Zion Synagogue represent the quality of vengeance. A time for ripping and a time for whereas Pesach is a festival. In the food we eat, As Jews underwent Emancipation sewing, The eight day Festival of Unleavened one may witness the and engaged with the Enlightenment, the A time for silence and a time for Bread’s symbol is the spare, crisp transition from holiday quality of vengeance was suppressed. speaking; matzah. Freedom is not doughy, thick – to holiday. On Purim, we Concerned with integration into majority A time for loving and a time for filled with wet, sweet jelly. The matzah’s consume thick, doughy Christian societies, our people’s decision hating…” (3:1-8). constitution teaches us what freedom is. triangles filled with jelly. made sense. Already Christianity had Purim was our “time for hating.” The food’s symbolism is an instruction of On Pesach, we eat characterized the God of the New We hated Haman, and we hated him how to constitute ourselves. thin, unleavened, crisp Testament as superior to the God of the well. Hate is like the hamantaschen — Rather than dense, we should be circles or squares. Old Testament in that the Old Testament’s doughy and thick, tasty but fattening. crisp; rather than doughy, we should In Judaism, you are God is a God of vengeance. That our God The heaviness of the hamantaschen be light. We must excise vengeance not what you eat, but what you eat is both was characterized as vengeful was bad is the heaviness of vengeance and from ourselves and embrace freedom. symbolic and nutritious. You remain who enough; having ourselves characterized hatred. No one can live this way for Too many of us imagine that freedom you are no matter what you eat. What you as vengeful was inadmissible. more than one day a year. We must looks like a hamantaschen. Impossible! eat, however, provides instruction. Vengeance, however, is so very leave hatred behind and embrace Freedom is the matzah! From giving the The closing chapters of Megillat human. While Christianity has claimed the new season, the season of yeast only 18 minutes to rise, we learn Esther recount acts of self-defense tinged that it lives by forgiveness alone, its “silence,” the holiday of Pesach. The that we should not be full of ourselves. with vengeance: “So the Jews struck at incorporation of Constantine’s sword thin, austere, and crisp unleavened Pesach is the season for deflation. More their enemies with the sword, slaying and suggests that forgiveness alone cannot bread symbolizes freedom. Hatred silence, more action, a less inflated sense destroying; they wreaked their will upon sustain a society. and vengeance are human, and they of ourselves: these are the instructions their enemies” (9:5). The thick, doughy, Ecclesiastes teaches: are given their due in our tradition. for the coming holiday. Don’t forget to pay attention to the unspectacular

By Rabbi Brian Michelson small voice. It was for Elijah and for us a who, without any fanfare and honor rolls, They speak, act and live with still, small Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom reminder that great things do not always anonymously makes it possible for a voices. Spectacularitis. come with fanfare. We are reminded not poor student to go to college. Heroism, This year, as you sit around the Seder It is a common to overlook the greatness of the small, as I see it, is a daily affair. It is around table, listen very carefully to Elijah. He problem in this world. not to be oblivious to the wonders of the us all the time. We do not hear about it reminds us that the real core of life, the It is the disease of simple and usual, and not to miss the because real heroes are essentially quiet values we hold most dear, are really in only focusing on the drama of the quiet and routine. It is there and unspectacular individuals. Part of the unspectacular and ordinary moments spectacular. It occurs if we are willing to listen for it. what makes them heroes is that they do of life. when we become In our busy lives, we often forget to not think of themselves as heroes. They May you and your dear ones have a impervious to the pay attention to the unspectacular. We are not in the storm or in the earthquake. happy and healthy Pesach. ordinary and simple. It don’t always see or hear it. We are so must be big, flashy, or immersed in the din of the day to day dramatic or it does not elicit our attention. — involved in the details of living — that LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES There is a story of a movie producer who there is no room for anything but the remarked that he wanted “a film that most dramatic. However, I think that is CHABAD CENTER OF BERKS COUNTY (610) 921-0881 begins with an earthquake and works a shame. Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. up to a climax.” We must be careful; let us not KESHER ZION SYNAGOGUE (610) 374-1763 The Prophet Elijah will soon be confuse achievement with importance. Weekly services Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. visiting our Seder tables. The Bible Undoubtedly, some people do have SERVICES HELD AT JCC, 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125, Wyomissing relates that Elijah sought to experience the stuff of heroes. It has been my God’s presence at Mount Sinai. We experience, however, that, for the most REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 are told that a storm broke, but God part, real heroes do not indulge in heroics. Fridays, April 7 and 14: 6 p.m. Fridays, April 21 and 28: 7 p.m. was not in the storm. Then there was True heroes are singularly unspectacular. Saturday, April 22: Tot Shabbat, 10 a.m. an earthquake, but God was not in the They are not “Superpeople.” There is CONGREGATION SHOMREI HABRITH earthquake. Finally, a still small voice nothing glamorous about the person wafted in the desert. When Elijah heard whose life has been unduly harsh; yet, it, he wrapped his face in his mantle, in the face of it all has retained his or her for he felt the presence of God. Not in a faith, cheer and courage. In my book, April ✡ Nisan - Iyar storm, not in an earthquake, but in a still, that person is a hero. As is the woman

Shabbat Candle Lightings Torah Portions Know someone who April 7 April 8/Nisan 12 7:17 p.m. Tzav (Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36) would like the Shalom? April 14 April 15/Nisan 19 7:24 p.m. Pesach (Exodus 33:12 – 34:26) Please share their address April 21 April 22/Nisan 26 7:31 p.m. Shemini (Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47) and we’ll add them to our April 28 April 29/Iyar 3 mailing list. 7:38 p.m. Tazria-Metzora (Leviticus 12:1 – 15:33)

May ✡ Iyar - Sivan

Shabbat Candle Lightings Torah Portions

May 5 May 6/Iyar 10 7:45 p.m. Acharei-Kedoshim (Leviticus 16:1 – 20:27)

May 12 May 13/Iyar 17 7:52 p.m. Emor (Leviticus 21:1 – 24:23)

May 19 May 20/Iyar 24 7:59 p.m. Behar-Bechukotai (Leviticus 25:1 – 27:34)

May 26 May 27/Sivan 2 8:05 p.m. Bamidbar (Numbers 1:1 – 4:20)

April 2017 SHALOM Page 11 Gardening with Vicky Last year’s garden still paying dividends

By Vicky Sokoloff crop was just as good, and it was much open the Last year I did some experimenting easier to get around and pick them. bags and with vertical gardening. Even though This year the teepees will be taller. gather the we have a fairly large planting area, Last month I talked about what we tea. Spread I always seem to want to plant more got from the garden. So now I’d like to around the than there is room for. One way to fit say a bit about what goes back into the entire drip more is to grow up rather than out and garden. Around February I start saving line under around. eggshells. They are a must for tomato, the azalea A local hort club program mentioned pepper and eggplant. But they are also bush. the idea of growing potato in a compost very good for most flowers and other It’s hard Woodpecker visit March 14 bin. I had one sitting around not doing plants as well. Wash shells from raw to know much, so I decided to give it a try. It eggs and let them dry. Then put them how the recent crazy weather will made the job easier and took very little in a paper bag and crush them. A lot affect the coming growing season. Jasmine nudiflorum blooming Feb 25 space, but the results were marginal. will fit in a small space. They are ready In February when the temperature Since we grow bamboo I also decided to be put into planting holes or spread went to the 60s, crocus and iris to make bamboo teepees for the peas around plants. were blooming. The jasmine was and beans instead of planting them Azaleas will benefit from used tea the best it’s ever been. Then came in rows. That worked really well. The grounds. Dry some used tea bags. Cut March and all those flowers were buried under 20 inches of snow and the temperature dropped to near zero. But in the middle of the March 14 blizzard we had a welcome visit from a large woodpecker who spent more than two hours in one spot on a wild cherry tree. His antics were a wonderful distraction from the accumulating snow. Iris reticulata blooming Feb 25

PLEASE NOTE HIGHLIGHTED CHANGES DUE TO

RESCHEDULED DATE

WHEN? SUNDAY – APRIL 30th, 2017

WHERE? JCC – 1100 BERKSHIRE – BLVD WYOMISSING

TIME? 1:00PM – 3:30PM

WHAT? BAP (BRING A PRIZE) COFFEE & DESSERT BINGO

WANTED: ANYONE WHO WANTS TO HAVE FUN! ENJOY COFFEE & DESSERT WHILE PLAYING BINGO Do you remember? WITH YOUR FRIENDS. ALL WE ASK IS THAT YOU BRING A PRIZE WORTH APPROXIMATEY $10.00 (THESE WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AS GAME WINNING PRIZES) By Tootie Moyer Ballroom – the big bands played AND A DESIRE TO HAVE FUN AND LAUGH! WE WILL SUPPLY THE REST. MEN ARE ENCOURAGED TO OK, all you “youngsters.”.Here there — Benny Goodman, Harry JOIN IN AND NO EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY. I am again to see if you remember James and Tommy Dorsey. THINK YOU QUALIFY? HAVE QUESTIONS? WANT TO CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDENCE? DON’T HESITATE TO these things that Reading had 10. Bagels were small and CONTACT ANY ONE PLEASE OF US. RSVP BY 4/16. many, many years ago. crisp, not just dough with a hole in Jan Simon – [email protected] – 610.698.5029 I remember all of them because the middle. My father was the only I’ll soon be 93 years “young” with bagel baker in Berks County. Gaye Corbin – [email protected] – 610.207.8825 a good memory most of the time. 11. Water that we drank came Susan Wilson – [email protected] – 610.301.2082 I hope you remember them from the kitchen spigot – not a also. plastic bottle. 1. Carsonia Park. We took 12. When families played cards a trolley from Penn Street to the or board games after supper. We Join us for this park. “Wow’ did we have fun in the played Parcheesi. pool, on the Thunder Bolt, the Whiz 13. When a wedding cost $200 very special service Bang and of course the Tunnel of not $10,000 or more as of now. & Oneg on April 28th Love. 14. When a postage stamp was at 7:00 pm 2. Boscov’s Variety Store on 7 cents. Ninth Street 15. Two dollar bills were 3. Really good stores on Penn common. Street – Pomeroys, Whitners, The 16. The Orthodox shul was Kins Co., Jeanette Shop, Josephs on Eighth Street, the women sat and Martins. upstairs and the restrooms were in 4. When we had milk and the basement. Reform Congregation bread delivered to our homes. 17. When cameras used film 5. We had a kosher butcher that had to be developed. Oheb Sholom celebrates and a Jewish deli. 18. We didn’t lock our doors. Israeli Independence Day 6. The Reading Fair was where 19. When we never said “no” the Fairgrounds Farmers Market is to our parents — we did what they now. asked us to do. 7. We went swimming in the 20. The word “sex” was never We will also be Fleetwood Pool, where the water used. It really was a “bad” word. announcing forthcoming was from the mountains and was It was used only to say male or events commemerating ice cold — I mean “ice cold”. female. Rabbi Michelson’s 8. Our family doctor took care If you remember most of these upcoming rabbinical of all our aches and pains; we things, good for you. You and I The service will be followed milestones. didn’t know what a “specialist” was. had a great life in Reading; didn’t by a delicious 9. We went dancing in we. Pottstown at the SunnyBrook See you soon – Stay well! Mediterranean Oneg! Page  Shalom March 2010 Jewish Family Service Discussion of addiction important to all

By Sari Incledon, M. Ed. will not be limited to issues dealing with Others) provided the following statistics. For every person who has a We invite the entire adolescents. Drug and alcohol abuse is According to Dr. Jay Holder, Medical substance abuse problem, several community to attend a a problem for all age groups, and we all Director and founder of the Exodus others are affected. Those affected program Jewish Family need to know more about it. Treatment Center in Miami, chemical may be spouses, parents, children, Service is sponsoring: In a recent article, “Overcoming dependency is the number one secret siblings, grandparents – all are hurt “What Every Family Denial” (Na’amat Woman Winter 2009/10) in the Jewish community. Reportedly, in different ways. What can we as a Needs to Know about Barbara Trainin Blank wrote: “Alcohol and Pageup to 50 12 percent of patient populations communal organization do to addressSHALOMShalom AprilMay 2017 2010 Alcohol and Drug chemical dependency don’t discriminate, in some residential treatment centers the problem? Awareness is an important Abuse & Addiction: An affecting Jews and non-Jews alike, and are Jews – as are 20 percent of those first step and we invite everyone in the Interactive Dialogue women as much as men. Addiction calling national drug hot lines (yet Jews communityJewishJewish to share questions Family Family and ServiceService with David Rotenberg.” and alcoholism can be found in every comprise less than 3 percent of the U.S. concerns at our above mentioned This program will be held Wednesday, socioeconomic and religious segment of population). Chemical dependency is the program on April 28. April 28 at 7 p.m. at the JCC. the Jewish community”. Carthird leading donation Helpkiller in the U.S. with It is also helps an downsizingOur sustainprogram is free, JFS though and programs moving David is the executive director of An article on the JACS Web unreported and/or unknown contributor reservations are requested. For more Adolescent Youth Services at Caron site (Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically Byto deaths Sari Incledon, caused by M.Ed.M. car Ed. accidents, heart JFSstaminainformation, (and orget the a taxcall organizational donation Sari at at 610-921- the ability same to SimonDisposition and VeeVee of personal Scott. property We could is a not major run Pesadich desserts.Local Companies Thanks to Jeff Bornstein Foundation, however his presentation Dependent Persons and Significant attacks,ThankSooner suicides you or laterto Daveand strokes. time)undertake0624. call mesuch at a 610-921-0624 massive task. or go to thepart food of what bank downsizing without them. companies help and1. Corinne Beyond Wernick the for Fork their in assistance the Road in– Walkermost of usfor willparticipating either www.charitableautoresources.com.Fortunately, our area has several with,On through April 2 JFS direct sponsored sales, donations a Seder toat servingSenior theMoving meal. Solutions Generous contributions BERKS ENCORE PROVIDES FREE TAX PREPARATION inbe our downsizing car donationVolunteer our OpportunitiescompaniesEach month Available that our help food with bank –all aspectsserves more of a thenonprofits, Manor at Market auctions Square. and The gifts Manor’s to family madewww.beyondtheforkintheroad.com in memory of Natalie Adelglass by – FROM TRAINED VOLUNTEERS program.home and TheJewish moving, proceeds Family Service seeks volunteersandmove. more Many people.to of help the ownersour(In Marchseniors of downsizingwe served residentsmembers. wereThe companies joined by workresidents with the of familyPhone and – 1-717-335-8080 friends underwrote the Seder. fromor ourhis auctioned family withcar grocery shopping182and and people moving other in errands. companies62 households). got We into could this Providenceclients to develop House customized and Friendship floor Circle plans Finally,President/Founder thanks to the– Elizabeth bakers Fryof the members will. This business after personally helping parents so clients can decide what possessions Logistics Director – Nancy Ulrich Was your household income less than $50,000 in 2009? will helpIf support you have our some time, call Sarinot or provide Carole this at 610-921-0624important service. without seniors. Boscov’s provided a delicious meal, Kesher Zion religious school and Temple programs.can be a daunting If you would dedicatedand family volunteers. members Thank struggle you withto long- the enjoyedcan move by all. with A them.big thank Services you to baker may Oheb2. Sholom’sTransition sisterhood Connection for providing us Household income may be higher in some cases, likeproposition, to learn more and about timeprocess. volunteers Their Karen goal Sherman is to reduce and Norman stress extraordinaireinclude cleaning, Sheila repairing Bornstein and for staging furnishing of withwww.transitionconnection.com hamentashen that were distributed to – but call 610-374-3195 for more details. thisoften easy people way to put help Jewish Family ServiceWilikofskyand provide andthanks clientto our centerednew volunteers personal Jan participantscurrent home, with shredding a vast arrayof old documentsof gourmet seniorsPhone – in 484-372-0824 long term care residences. Call today to schedule an appointment from now until April 15. off a needed move services. All companies listed below and coordinating utility moves and hook- 3. TLC Ladies because of all the Dr. Jeffrey Blankoffer similar D.D.S. services andLiving some offer with a ups. Packing Loss and unpacking are other www.tlcladies.com – Phone – 1-717- work involved.for providingThis is especially professional true complimentary services to evaluationour client. to determine important services offered by the below 228-8764 Berks Encore, 40 N. Ninth St., 610-374-3195 for seniors who may lack the physical how the companyMondays, can help May the client.10 and listed 24, companies. 3:00- 4:30 All the p.m. companies listed 4. Ridgewood Family Services below have been used by people I know Phone – 610-507-3446 Enjoy Tax Benefits WhileFor Contributing more information to callwith Sari positive at results.610-921-0624 Gail McKim - owner BERKS ENCORE RECEIVES AWARDS Jewish Family Service Vehicle Donation Program Congratulations to Berks Encore employees Carolyn Krebs Jewish Family Service thanks and Martha Sitler for receiving one of the Social Security Dr. Harriet Comite and her staff Administrations highest awards for their providing the public with Call Sari at 610-921-0624, What happens after Call Sari at information covering Social Security issues. Did you know the Hampton Inne-mail Wyomissing [email protected] is newly a hospitalfor generously stay? providing renovated? It’s true, when your family610-921-0624 comesor go to totown, Berks Encore enables older adults to achieve a better quality of professional services to a JFS client. why crowd your home? We www.charitableautoresources.comhave a heated indoor pool, Join us for this informative seminar presented by life by providing a comprehensive program of services, referrals, or email education and advocacy. For more information call Berks Encore complimentary hot breakfast, and [email protected] a good night’s sleep on our at 610-374-3195 or visit them at www.Berksencorepa.org famous Cloud 9 bed. Did you also know that we wash our Jewish Family Service thanks comforters and pillows with every stay? Wouldn’t you want Thursday, May 20 • 11:30 am yourJewish loved Familyones here Servicewith us instead Food of Pantry worrying Collection where you’ll the Social Actionat Committee Manor at Market Square  find room?Living With the Hampton’swith 100%Loss guarantee of Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom  WeWe are are servingserving moremore familiesfamilies Some patients require additional you can’t go wrong. care after their hospital discharge. formerly Bereavementeacheach month!month! GroupPlease bringbring for its donation of 100 Shalach Manot donations of canned tuna, Planning ahead will make Hamptondonations Inn Wyomissing of canned tuna, soup, things easier for you after you leave. Mondays, Marchsoup,  and fruits 22, and 3:00- vegetables 4:30 p.m. to Purim gifts that we delivered to residents 1800 Papermill Road,fruits Wyomissing, and vegetables PA 19560to Learn about the services available the JCC. 2131_Shalom_ad:LayoutFor more information1 9/8/09 11:57 AM PageKeshercall 1 Sari Zion at or the610-921-0624 JCC. of nursing homes and seniorfor communities.you or a loved one! 610-374-8100ThankThank you!you! Please RSVP by calling 610-373-0800. We alsoA needf f i n plastici t y B anda n paperk P A grocery. c o m bags! 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Literature DayTwo at Twin recommendationsCommunity College. we want you to residing in everyone’s intestines — you balance your blood sugar. isValley, now andin the its firstmidst offeringof a Series is during A be As able mentioned to share above, your resultsKim Yashek, with interacts with the digestive and immune “It’s not a list of ingredients because financingthe current round.fourth quarter. He is very everybodydaughter of who the touches late local nutrition Holocaust in your systems, and its diversity holds certain the body doesn’t work that way,” excitedLast December,about offering DayTwo this announced course to life,survivor such Richard as your Yashek, employee is speaking wellness at clues. 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