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

Enriching Lives Volume 48, No. 8 August 2018 Av-Elul 5778

ShaloThe Journal of the Reading Jewish Communitym published by0 the Jewish8 Federation1 of Reading/Berks8

Your Federation Supports: Announcing the fifth annual Jewish Education Food Pantry Reading Jewish Film Series Friendship Circle By Amanda J. Hornberger *Special event following Chevra The Jewish Cultural screening Community Shabbat Center and Fox Theatres Following “The Last Suit” is proud to announce the we will host a complimentary Reading Jewish Film Series lineup for the fifth year of the empanada reception in Reading Jewish Film Series. partnership with Centro PJ Library The 2019 Reading Jewish Hispano in honor of Hispanic Jewish Family Service Film Series, which opens this Heritage Month . fall, will feature a variety of The March film will be Jewish Cultural Center film genres from comedies followed by a discussion to dramas to documentaries. led by Dr. John Incledon, Lakin Holocaust Library The films are from around the professor in the Holocaust & Resource Center world, including Argentina, Studies Department at Australia, India, Israel, the Albright College. Israel & Overseas Netherlands, Spain, South We hope you will join us Africa, Poland and the United for films featuring a journey Camp Scholarships States. The complete list back through time and follows: halfway around the world, Israel Trips Oct. 10 — “The Last Suit”* the unlikely Indian Jewish film Jewish Community Nov. 28 — “Shalom connection, a historical thriller Bollywood: The Untold Story about Nelson Mandela, a High School of Indian Cinema” romantic comedy, the real Jan. 9 — “An Act of relations between Jews and Emergency Support Defiance” Poles in modern day Poland Lakin Preschool Feb. 6 — “And Then She and the David-and-Goliath Arrived” story of Israel’s national by the Rubin Educational Fund evenings at 7 p.m. at FOX EAST. Richard J. Yashek Lecture March 6 — “Scandal in baseball team. All of these will of the Jewish Federation of Tickets can be purchased at the Ivansk”* be featured during the 2019 Reading and Fox Theatres. theater beginning at 6:30 p.m. the Transportation April 10 — “Heading Reading Jewish Film Series! Admission is $5 per film or $25 day of the screening, and series Maimonides Society Home: The Tale of Team The 2019 Reading Jewish for the series of six films. All films tickets can be bought at the JCC. Israel” Film Series is co-sponsored will be shown on Wednesday Cash and checks are accepted. Your Jewish Legacy

92ND ST Y Programs Joint Distribution Committee Breezy fun at the annual meeting and picnic Meir Panim

Annual Campaign

Jewish Agency for Israel

Yemin Orde

School Education Programs Plenty of community members Interfaith Unity Council came out on an unusually cool and windy afternoon to enjoy the Israel Advocacy Jewish Federation of Reading’s Annual Meeting and picnic June 3 at Youth Events Wyomissing Hills Playground. The Great Decisions Series event featured a delicious kosher lunch catered by Boscov’s along with Jewish Community Israeli drumming and other family Above, Israeli drummer Yoav Levy explains the musical participant part of the show featuring Al Katz, Ari Lipsker, Louise Zeidman and Adelaine Woodward. Below, the crowd waits for the meeting to begin. fun. The business portion of the Relations Council program featured presentations by Federation Chairwoman Haia Mazuz, Community Holiday Programs past Chairman Larry Rotenberg, Women’s Philanthropy President William D. Franklin and JCC Program Director Amanda Jewish Federations Hornberger. More photos on back page. of North America

Counseling Services

Leo Camp Lecture

Shabbat B’Yachad Page 2 SHALOM Summer 2018 A stronger community starts with you

By Richard Nassau need) from our Jewish community. We know and have heard how there Development Director We are listening, and we are learning. are still parts of our community that feel It all starts with you. We’ve heard how the many services overlooked or underserved. Federation is That is why over the and activities you support through the responding by asking what we can do to summer we have been community campaign help ensure the vitality improve. We want everyone to feel part of inviting people to meet of “Jewishness” within our community. How our Jewish community. We want to ensure with us one-on-one the work of Federation and its support of the our Jewish culture, our connections, our and share their ideas, JCC, JFS and others are critically important. “Jewishness” remains part of who we are thoughts, and insights. How Federation programs are connecting as a Jewish community. We have been people to our community and to each other. We’ve also listened to suggestions n t reaching out to talk with Your campaign gift makes this possible. for ways to increase outreach efforts and members of our Jewish community. We’ve Your gift allows new connections. for ways we can welcome new members been listening. We took time over this Over this summer, people have told us into our community. We’ve heard ways we

e summer to meet with people and hear about how they view Federation, JCC and JFS could increase volunteer opportunities and their needs and the needs of their family. We as community resources. People have told involve people with newly found time - post wanted to hear their thoughts, ideas, and us about their need for new opportunities baby/toddler/early ed school age or recently opinions about our community. We wanted to (re)connect and engage in the Jewish retired. We’ve heard proposals for ways to know more about them and about their community. How they would welcome people could better get together and how views on things from education, to Israel, to expanded programming and new initiatives it doesn’t need to be a formal event. m connections, to events, to support services by the Federation, JCC and JFS. It all starts with you. Your support of our for families. Plus, everything in-between. It is your gift that will make it easier for Community Campaign makes everything We have been asking questions and Federation, along with the JCC and JFS, we do possible. speaking with people about the best ways to respond to emerging community needs We welcome your ideas, thoughts, p we — Federation, JCC, JFS — can provide and support these new ways for people to and insights. If you’d like to share your the programs and services they expect (and become part of our community. comments one-on-one, please contact me. o l e v

e invite you to join us for a day with D

Annual Campaign Curious George and

Women’s Philanthropy Maimonides Society his Creators Your Jewish Legacy

Chai Circle Meet author Louise Borden and learn about the

L’Chaim Society amazing journey to save Curious George. Separate

Book of Life children and adult programs will explore the true

Letter of Intent wartime escape of Margaret and H.A. Rey, creators of Curious George, from France in 1940. Special appearance by Curious George!

Sunday, September 30, 2018 Kids program at 4 pm

2018 totals Adult program at 6 pm as of July 13 Exeter Community Library 4569 Prestwick Drive, Reading, PA Jewish Community Campaign Event is FREE! $210,682 Kindly RSVP to [email protected] or 610-921-0624 *Includes transfers from Donor Advised Funds Event sponsored by Jewish Cultural Center of Reading and Exeter Community Library

PJ Library of Reading is generously sponsored by the Sue B. Viener Memorial Fund of the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks.

Summer 2018 SHALOM Page 3 From the President’s Desk Watch for focus on social action in the coming year

By William D. Franklin our values and we must act on them.” Leadership Dinner in October. She will only historically proven way for people to President Taking these words to heart, Margo speak at a community lunch with our build community across differences is to Margo Levin and I agreed to chair our JCRC (Jewish Community non-Jewish partners and later to the build things together.” In this spirit we are attended the Jewish Relations) Committee and has initiated Jewish community. In mid-January, we embarking on a new five-year strategic Council on Public program planning for 2018-19. Informed will continue along this arc of action by plan to connect the interests and needs Affairs (JCPA) national by our Jewish values, these programs will bringing Roy Waterman, JCPA’s Criminal of the community with the programs and conference in April. address major social issues of today such as Justice Manager, to speak on the radical services of the Jewish Federation. We Ruth Messinger was gun violence, voting rights, immigration and inequalities in our justice system. Other are conducting focus groups to learn a key speaker. Her others. They will also expand our work with programs and film discussions are being more about what our future community main message was: “In Reading’s Muslim, Afro-American, Hispanic planned to keep the momentum and should look like. Several community- a democratic society and LGBT communities. action going. We are working to build wide meetings will be held in the fall where wrong exists, some are guilty but We are fortunate that Messinger, the action-oriented relationships and bridges to communicate our initial findings and all are responsible. Every social issue is immediate past President of American to counter community polarization. discuss their ramifications. Join us to a Jewish issue because Judaism forms Jewish World Service, will highlight our Rabbi Jonathan Sacks said, “The build our future. JCHS to feature course in American Jewish history

Barbara Lerner will be teaching and future. • Encourage students to integrate a Reading Jewish Community High This special program will: Jewish and secular studies by forging School 2018-2019 course in American • Contextualize contemporary chronological and conceptual links Jewish History. This course will reflect challenges facing American Jews between them. the experiences of her participation in helping students to better understand • And most importantly, help them the third annual National Educators where we have been and better to better appreciate human potential. “The Institute (NEI), The Art and Science of appreciate what sets them apart both ability of American Jews — young and Teaching Jewish History in America. as Americans and as Jews. old, men and women alike — to change It is an innovative program designed • Deepen their’ understanding of the course of history and transform a to transform the teaching of American America and show them how their piece of the world. American Jewish Jewish history by utilizing the trove of ancestors fit into the larger picture of history is, after all, not just a record artifacts and resources available at the American society. of events; it is the story of how people National Museum of American Jewish • Communicate the enduring power shaped events — establishing and History (NMAJH) in Philadelphia. Of of religion in America and show how maintaining communities, responding the 25 admitted teachers, Lerner was Jews have formulated religious identity to challenges, working for change. the only community Jewish high school Barbara Lerner in a distinctively pluralistic setting. That, perhaps, is the greatest lesson instructor. teachers’ knowledge, appreciation, • Bridge the gap between collective of all that American Jewish history NEI’s goal is to enhance the teaching and aptitude for teaching Jewish experiences and personal stories, can offer our students: that they too and learning of American Jewish history and encourage students to helping students to find the links can make a difference, that the future history in secondary schools and raise appreciate the wonders and challenges between their own history and the is theirs to create.” (Jonathan Sarna, student achievement by improving of American Jewish life, past, present, history of the Jewish people. 2004) JCHS switches to morning hours, announces classes for fall

By Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner modernity and our tradition. their importance for the future of the Jewish enterprise. Students will examine this Jewish Community High School Jewish Wit — A Historical community and Western civilization. story from the beginnings of the American Reading Jewish Community High School Explanation of Why It Is or Once Jewish Food — Fact or Fiction? Jewish community in 1654 to today as will meet Sundays at the JCC, 9:30 a.m. Was Funny What makes a food Jewish? Is it Jews immigrated to new places while to 12:15 p.m. during the upcoming school What does Jewish humor say about family tradition or rabbis and cookbooks? holding on to tradition and adapting to year. Teens will discuss classical and the history of our people — where we have This class will explore numerous aspects new circumstances. modern Jewish teachings, find contemporary lived, the languages we have spoken and of Jewish belief, identity and practice Do-It-Yourself Judaism meaning in the concepts and values of the circumstances we survived or enjoyed. connected to food. Examples include As students assume responsibility for Jewish tradition and build a teenage Jewish Why are there so many Jewish comedians kashrut, learning from our neighbors, their connection to a meaningful heritage, community. Students are encouraged to and writers? What in our history helps to the environment, personal diet, and the we will share some loving traditions and ask the questions that matter to them and explain the humor? Is tragedy ever funny? surrounding culture. We will also prepare new opportunities to create reflective develop answers that engage them. We will share examples and then ask food for people in need as a form of tikkun moments, rituals, and ceremonies Bioethics — Living in a World of ourselves, “Why is it funny?” Who would olam. Last but not least, we will certainly beginning at birth. We will look at both Tradition and Change have told such a story, where, under what enjoy some food together. ancient and contemporary rituals and Today we are often asked to choose circumstances and for what reason? Perspectives on American Judaism create new ones where gaps may exist. between modern science and Jewish What does that humor tell us about those American Judaism emerged in This syllabus will be expanded and focus tradition. We will examine emerging Jews — when they lived and where? Do the 20th century as a multi-pronged on the interests of the class. scientific discoveries and technologies in stereotypes come from within the Jewish a wide variety of areas such as genetic community, from outside the Jewish engineering, drug research, clean-tech and community or from both sources? Why and renewable energy, control of agricultural does it matter? How is it relevant to today? pests using pheromones and when does Pirkei Avot — Traditional Texts in death become final to name a few. We will Modern Media A newspaper serving the Jewish community of Berks County, focus on key differences between secular The only Talmudic text that does not Pennsylvania, and published monthly, September through June, under and Jewish approaches in interpretation, deal with laws is Pirkei Avot (usually the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks. Funded by the Annual Jewish analysis, and application of bioethical translated as “Ethics of the Fathers”). Community Campaign. concepts ­— as well as similarities. Our goal These Talmudic tidbits of moral and is not to solve these fundamental ethical ethical insights are most often taught in General Offices: 1100 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 125 dilemmas. Rather, we want to prepare contemporary film and You-tube media Wyomissing, PA 19610 ourselves for making informed decisions in depicting contemporary dilemmas and Phone: 610-921-0624 FAX: 610-929-0886 as Jews and citizens who will continue to choices. We will view selected scenes Web site: www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org be confronted by increasing challenges of depicting these truths and then examine Jewish Federation of Reading Chair: Haia Mazuz ROMEO group to meet President: William D. Franklin Communications Director: Mark Nemirow, Editor Retired old men eating out or ROMEO JCC ROMEO group will meet on the Proofreaders: Federation staff groups can be found across the country. first Tuesday of each month at noon in The JCC is looking to start a ROMEO Wyomissing Family Restaurant, 1245 The opinions expressed in Shalom are of the writers and not the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks group and is seeking interested retired Penn Ave. Lunch typically lasts about men in the community! 90 minutes. The concept is simple. Retired men The inaugural meeting is scheduled meet for lunch every month. Everyone for Tuesday, Sept. 4. pays their own way and no transportation If you are interested please contact is provided. The lunch venue and day Bob Caster at 610-587-1985, speak to of the month remain the same even Bill Franklin at the Federation or email as the group participants change. The [email protected]. Page 4 SHALOM Summer 2018 Shabbat dinner program to continue, expand

By Amanda J. Hornberger Described as a “great way to connect families will remain in the program, but we Did Shabbat B’yachad spark your interest across congregations” last year, Shabbat are looking for other families raising young or involvement in other Jewish experiences? B’yachad brought together 13 families with children to join the program next year. In a recent survey 100 percent of the young young children for Shabbat dinners in homes We are also looking to create a similar families who participated in our Shabbat every other month. The first two years of program for the empty-nester households. B’yachad Shabbat dinner program last year this program were funded thanks to a grant Any family interested in participating in agreed with that statement. from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. This the families with young children Shabbat Based on the success of our Shabbat year Jewish Federation of Reading has dinner group or the empty nester Shabbat B’yachad program Jewish Federation committed to continue to fund and support dinner group should contact Amanda of Reading will continue to sponsor the these Shabbat dinners. Hornberger at [email protected] or program for 2018-2019. Most of our original Shabbat B’yachad 610-921-0624. JCC archive in process of being digitized

By Amanda J. Hornberger have enjoyed looking through The December 1980 edition the old Shaloms and seeing the of Shalom carried the headline rich Jewish traditions, history “ ’81 Goal: 100% Involvement”. and fun so evident throughout Elie Wiesel, Nobel Laureate the years in Reading. Abby, a and Holocaust survivor, was June Wyomissing High School pictured on the front page graduate who is headed to college of that edition as the first in the fall, has been hard at Leo Camp Memorial Lecture work this summer scanning old speaker. This unique piece of issues of Shalom and making Reading’s Jewish history is them searchable so we have now digitized as part of a new better access to those interesting, ongoing project for the JCC. historical tidbits hidden in our Thanks to the efforts of archives. volunteer Abby Goldberg and In addition to the Shalom Federation staff, this summer archive and JCC items there the JCC is digitizing items and is a large collection of pictures papers from the old JCC. Thus from the old JCC that we will be far images of the trophies and digitizing. We need your help to plaques from the JCC have been identify people in pictures! digitized. If you are interested in Due to our large archive this picking up one of the trophies or digitization project will continue a plaque pertaining to you or a through the fall and winter. If family member, please contact anyone is interested in helping the JCC at 610-921-0624 to see with this project by identifying our collection. Items not claimed individuals in photos or scanning by the end of the summer will be please contact Amanda at Center Jewish Cultural discarded. [email protected] or 610- 92nd St. Y Programs As a newer staff member, I 921-0624.

Game Nights Community Shabbat Post-film discussion Reading Jewish Film Series after screening Great Decisions The JCC cordially invites Interfaith Mitzvah Day of WWII spy drama you to Yom Ha’atzmaut at Goggleworks PJ Library

PJ Our Way By Amanda J. Hornberger Join us Sunday, Aug. 19 for a special post- Leo Camp Lecture film discussion following the screening of “Catcher Was a Spy” at the Goggleworks Film Tech Tuesday ISRAELI Theatre. Yom Hazikaron The film tells the story of retired Major League Baseball player, Moe Berg, who lived Art Exhibits a double life working for the Office of Strategic Services during World War II and helped the Yom Hashoah WINE United States. beat Germany in the race for Annual Meeting and Picnic the atomic bomb. Paul Rudd stars as Berg. The cast also includes Mark Strong, Sienna Miller, Purim Carnival Jeff Daniels, Tom Wilkinson, Giancarlo Giannini, Hiroyuki Sanada, Guy Pearce and Paul Giamatti. Richard J. Yashek The film was directed by Ben Lewin and written TASTING Memorial Lecture by Robert Rodat and was based on the book of the same name by Nicholas Dawidoff. Saturday, October 20, 2018 Kristallnacht Remembrance “Catcher Was a Spy” opens Aug. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Goggleworks Film Theatre with showtimes at 555 Warwick Drive Youth Events 3 and 7 p.m. on weekdays. On Saturdays and Wyomissing, PA 19610 Purim Masquerade Party Sundays there are screenings at noon, 3 and 7 p.m. Bridge Jewish Federation of Reading will lead a Explore cheese and Israeli wine pairings special post-film discussion following the 3 pm with local wine expert George Reppert. Chevra screening of “Catcher was a Spy” on Sunday, Mahjong Aug. 19. Our discussion will be led by Brian Engelhardt, a local baseball historian and author Seating is limited. RSVP required by Trips to NYC/Philadelphia of “Reading’s Big League Exhibition Games.” October 3, 2018 to [email protected] Tickets are available for purchase at the or 610-921-0624 Lakin Holocaust Library Goggleworks box office starting 30 minutes & Resource Center before showtime. The film is rated R and runs 98 minutes. Cost forJCC members: Shabbat B’yachad The theater is located inside the Goggleworks $20 single or $35 couple Center for the Arts, located at 201 Washington Cost for non-members: Community Calendar St. in Reading. $25 single or $45 couple Page 5 SHALOM Summer 2018

Plenty of summer fun at Friendship Circle

The Jewish Family Service weekly Friendship Circle program continues all summer with fun, interesting programs. Clockwise from top left: Lila Shapiro, left, learns about “Judith” from Jennifer Koosed; Becky Hughes makes a presentation on covered bridges; from left, Sylvia Wenger, Margo Levin, and Louise Zeidman discuss Margo’s recent trip to Poland and Israel. Friendship Circle meets Thursdays at 1 p.m. for lunch followed by a program at 1:45.

Local campers, staff have another great summer at Camp Harlam

Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom was well-represented at the Union for Reform Judaism’s Camp Harlam in Kunkletown, PA. From left are Chloe Carlin, Samantha Feresse, Molly Nemirow, Rabbi Brian Michelson, Holly Michelson, Alexandra Holly Michelson with Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom campers, from left, Ruby Nemeroff, Dani Levin and Ruby Nemeroff. Not pictured: campers Danielle Radosh and Aspen Weizer and staff member Bryce Weizer. Radosh and Aspen Weizer. Holly and her husband, Rabbi Brian Michelson, spend time each summer RCOS members Will and Nate Stein attended the URJ’s SciTech 6 Points Sci-Tech Academy in Byfield, Mass working at Camp Harlam. Page 6 SHALOM Summer 2018 Meir Panim youth clubs offer respite from violence at border

As violence on Israel’s southern border persists Building the Future). Participants are involved and agricultural terrorism burns the Holy Land, in social action, perform volunteer work, and Hamas rockets are fired towards Israeli cities from contribute to the community. They also participate Gaza.Until now, Israel’s army performed limited in discussions about social issues such as racism, retaliation due to the complexity of the situation. absorption and acclimation difficulties, the army PageHowever,  in self-defense, the Israel Air Force has and national service, working rights ofMarch teenagers, 2010 begun to target launching sites in the Gaza Strip. Shalom education, the security situation, and acceptance Responding to this show of force, rockets were of others. These discussions help to strengthen fired into southern Israel, triggering red alert sirens the teens’ communication skills and develop and sending Israelis into bomb shelters. Community News leadership qualities. This brings the frightening sounds, smells, An especially moving activity is when and sites of terror back into the lives of Sderot’s Obituaries participants visit war veterans. The youth listen citizens, who live just across the border from the to the veterans’ war stories, which they now can Gaza strip. “With war continuing to rage within deeply relate to, and express their appreciation Lucy Suzanne Knoblauch L. (Sulman) Moyer. He is also survived view of Sderot’s residents, children in this area are maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the crisis.” for their service by giving a small gift and a lot of Zeidman, 96, Wyomissing. by his daughters, Aileen D., widow already like war veterans,” stated Danielle Rubin, The youth clubs are located within converted warmth. The group also visits hospitals several Surviving are a son, Bruce F., of Neal H. Endy, of Pennside, and E. Director of American Friends of Meir Panim, which bomb shelters. Should a red alert siren go off times each year to cheer up patients and give gifts. husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman, of Roxanne, wife of Les Walker, of Batavia is supported by local dollars through the Jewish while the youth are in the club, they are already Meir Panim hopes that youth attending this Shillington; a brother, Harry Knoblauch, Ohio; sons, Stan B. , husband of Kristine Federation of Reading’s Israel Now campaign. “We safe. “Meir Panim renovated the bomb shelters program will grow to become some of Israel’s husband of Edith Knoblauch, of Reading; K. Moyer, of Sinking Spring and Jay must help to keep them safe and hopeful for their to make them feel more like relaxing spaces to greatest leaders due to their compassion and a sister, Ruth Balis of Wyomissing; and H., husband of Margaret R. Moyer, of future under these very trying circumstances.” hang out rather than places to hide from rockets,” unique life experiences.Children at the centers several nieces and nephews. Muhlenberg Township. Other survivors Since April 13, hundreds of kites with burning Rubin said. “These clubs provide traumatized have personally requested an upgrade of some --- are grandchildren: Brett A. Endy, Chad tails and explosive balloons have been flown into teens with a safe place to socialize and expand of the aging equipment. This includes a ping- Irene S. Zeidman, 62, Wyomissing. M. Endy and Elizabeth K. Moyer; and Israeli territories from Gaza. Called “agricultural their horizons.” pong table, computer games and remote controls, She is survived by her brother Bruce great-grandchildren, Carson N., Logan terror,” these incendiary devices have burned Activities Meir Panim provides at the Sderot office equipment, yard furniture for a sitting area, Images from F., husband of Geraldine L. Zeidman C., Ardyn N. and Ava L. Endy thousands of acres of farmland and caused youth clubs include cooking classes, dancing, and sports equipment – a volley ball, a net, a of Shillington. --- millions of shekels worth of damage. laugh therapy, music, and carpentry workshops. basketball, and a punching bag. Yemin Orde --- Shirley Robinson of B’nai B’rith “With Israel’s southern border continuing to In addition, they host fun group activities like “Meir Panim is able to continue our network Area resident and recent college Robert Berger, 54, Reading. Apartments. Survived by her Friendship suffer from terrorist activities, we are grateful that barbecues, holiday parties, sports, and important of social welfare programs in Israel only through graduate Jessica Flamholz sent us He was the former spouse of Lea Circle friends. we have been able to help ease the suffering of lectures on violence, and risky activities. generous donations from our amazing supporters,” these pictures from her recent visit Berger, Reading. He is survived by --- Sderot’s children,” Rubin said. “Our local youth One example of the importance of the clubs said Rubin. “We are so grateful that we are able to to Yemin Orde, an Israeli village two daughters, Molly R. Berger, State Louis Malamud, 95, formerly clubs are providing a safe and comforting place is the great work being done for 17 Sderot teens make a positive impact on the lives of struggling for children and youth supported College, and Bethany S. Berger, of Temple. He is survived by a son, for teens. They are serving as healthy outlets to through the leadership group, NOVA (Youth for Israeli children.” by our Federation. Reading; and one brother, Dr. Barry M. Mitchel, husband of Laura Malamud, Berger, husband of Kathleen A. Vieweg, of Las Vegas; grandchildren Barry Boston, Mass. husband of Johna Malamud, Deborah --- Babbit-Malamud and Sheri Malamud; All Around the Town______David Moyer, 85, Reading. and great-grandchildren: Jessy Babbit, By Joan G. Friedman Badal, who has received the honor of He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Carly Malmud and Ian Malamud. CongratulationsMazel Tov to ourto Korey community’s Blanck beingMatthew chosen asDriben the Child, son Advocate of Jeff of andrecent to Edith high Blanck school on graduatesthe birth of andthe Year Lynn for the Driben, State of Pennsylvania. nominee in theirhonored new granddaughterin the Reading and Eagle great-’s communications*** and computer Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests! granddaughter!Berks’ Best scholarship competition: science.Best wishes to our Berks County Abby Goldberg *** , daughter athletes competing*** in the 2010 Maccabi of MazelDavid Tov and to theDebbie Bluestone Goldberg, Family: Games:Congratulations to Phil and Shalom Newspaper (Joan Friedman) Towinner David in andthe mathematicsMarianna on category;their new MeganEmily Elbaum& Jared Baksic and big, swimming brother daughternominee andin science. to grandparents Eric and CameronAndrew Blickle on the, basketball birth of Noa 5” (2 col.) x 7” Marissa.Audra Nemirow, daughter of Elbaum.Matthew Eisenberg, swimming Questions? Mark and Geri Nemirow, *** finalist in UntilHannah next and time: Alexis Shalom! Glassmire, Contact Jodi Gibble, Marketing Director communications.Congratulations to Charles and swimming Brenda Diamond on the engagement Brandon Missan, soccer READING The Highlands at Wyomissing ofObituary their son Brett and to grandfather Al Daniel N. Meyers, 28, of Oley. 2801 Papermill Road 2000 Cambridge Ave., Wyomissing, PA 1910 Diamond. Daniel graduated from Exeter High Wyomissing, Pennsylvania Marilyn F. “Lynn” Salpeter, 94, 10-288-3405 *** SchoolUntil and next worked time: as maintenanceShalom! of Wyomissing. She is survived by Mazel Tov to Rosalind Hyman and technician[Email all yourat Hafer simcha Petroleum news to joan@ in GROUP RATES AVAILABLE her stepdaughter Helen Coleman Yetaesh Ayalo receives an Outstanding Soldier Award during Israel Independence Day celebrations. her daughter, Attorney.Cathy Hyman Birdsboro,friedman.net] he was also a certified and stepsons Alan and Howard Call Alice for a Site Tour welder. Dan enjoyed working on cars Salpeter, her eight grandchildren with his friends and loved his Harley and nine great-grandchildren.KEEP UP WITH THE COMMUNITY A proud and inspiring day Davidson motorcycle. He is survived ✦ --- (610) 736-2082 www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Visit www.readingjewishcommunity.orgby his mother, Suzanne, of Boyertown Shirley Blacker, 96, of and his father Lee and his wife, Karen, Morristown, N.J., passed away for graduates of IsraElite, of Florida. Daniel is also survived by on June 23. Shirley, formerly of his brother, Michael of Philadelphia Lorraine Road, Reading, was born and his sisters; Elizabeth and her in Paterson, N.J., before moving to Yemin Orde Youth Village husband John Madore of Maryland Fair Lawn, N.J., and then Reading in and Alison Meyers of Lancaster, there IICongratulations hadhad to IsraElite nono positions idea!idea! in their national service 1960. Shirley wasou’ve predeceased worked hard by to accumulate your wealth. We hear this again and again from residents of The Highlands. are also three nieces. her husband of 43 years, Morris. He graduate, Yetaesh Ayalo, and to and beyond. Trust it to someone who will work even--- harder to was ownerY of Reading Rayco Auto Yemin Orde graduate, Raphael Raphael• People are Barrar so friendly. Larrat Irma “Icy” Cohen, 94, of the Interiors forgrow more your than assets 50 years. and Sheprovide you with peace of mind Barrer Larrat, who both received an immigrated• There’s to soIsrael much from for me Brazil to do. in Highlands at Wyomissing. Icy was a past member of Kesher Zion Outstanding Soldier Award in the 2012 •and I love graduated the independence from andYemin as you plan for the future. Fromenjoying financial reading planning and playing and bridge, Synagogue. Shirley is survived by Israel Defense Forces during Israel’s Orde Youthprivacy Village at The in Highlands. 2014. His IDF she was a regular at the Wednesday Independence Day ceremonies in unit commanders cited Raphael’s her sons Robertinvestment Blacker management and wife, to custom credit solutions, • I don’t worry about my future. Bridge game at the JCC. She is Debbie, of Morristown; and Stuart Jerusalem. This special ceremony excellent leadership, capabilities, deposit products and more.survived Clermont by Wealth her son Strategies Randy Cohen • Dining is like a fine restaurant. Blacker and wife, Margie, of Short takes place each year for 120 motivation, professionalism, values and her daughter Jan Cohen- • My kids are so glad I’m here. Hills, N.J.;– fivepersonal, grandchildren focused and and highly confidential. outstanding IDF soldiers and dedication. He now serves in Cruz and husband, Dionisio Cruz. • I feel like I’m at a resort. three great-grandchildren. Yetaesh is now serving her the Givati Brigade. Other survivors include her three --- third year as a fighter with the Yemin• This was Orde’s a smart and Gap valuable Year grandchildren and their spouses. Airborne Rescue and Evacuation Leadershipfinancial Programs decision. for Immigrant Unit. In recognition of Yetaesh’s Men and• They Women do things arefirst class.designed Financial Planning Comprehensive Investment Management achievements and leadership, specifically• I wish I’d to moved meet here the sooner. unique her father received approval to needs of marginalized at-risk youth. Custom Credit Solutions Bank Deposit & Convenience Products • I love it here! LOCAL CONGREGATIONS AND SERVICE TIMES immigrate to Israel from Ethiopia These programs operate under the Wealth Preservation & Transfer Services Retirement Planning REFORM CONGREGATION OHEB SHOLOM (610) 375-6034 and be at his daughter’s side during auspices of Village Way Educational Friday, Aug. 3: Shabbat service, 6 p.m. the specialCome ceremony. tour Yetaesh’s The Initiatives Highlands. and are supported Fridays, July 27, Aug. 10, 17, 24 and 31: Shabbat service, 7:45 p.m. advocacy for her father and her through private philanthropy. Yemin Saturday, Sept. 1: Josh Cole Bar Mitzvah, 10 a.m.; Selichot service, 8 p.m. leadershipFind were out noted first extensivelyhand why itOrde is the is proudbest place of these for two young in Israeli media. leaders who exemplify the Village CHABAD CENTERLERMONT OF BERKSEALTH COUNTYTRATEGIES (610) 921-0881 retirement living. C W S IsraElite is a gap year leadership Way and are role models for their Saturday mornings: 9:30 a.m.; Friday evenings: 6:30 p.m. AT program for at-risk and immigrant generation. 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EQUAL HOUSING www.thehighlands.org OPPORTUNITY +++++ Page 7 SHALOM Summer 2018 Liberal Zionism isn’t dead, but it needs to wake up to new realities By Jonathan S. Tobin biased condemnation of Israel at the term damage to Israel of maintaining where its borders are drawn, then the Editor in Chief, Jewish News Syndicate United Nations over violence along the the anomalous situation in the West two camps can resume battling. But until The only argument worth having border with Gaza. That has not only Bank have some merit. But as long as then, Zionists of all stripes must wake up now is between Zionists of all stripes — endeared him to most Israelis but to the the Palestinian Authority subsidizes to the fact that they are on the same side liberals as well as conservatives — and minority of Jews who are either politically terror and spews anti-Semitism—and in the only real debate going on today. those who oppose the Jewish state’s conservative or religiously Orthodox. their Hamas rivals are Islamists who The rise of anti-Zionist and pro-BDS existence. But the problem here is not so much have been waging a violent assault on groups — like Jewish Voice for Peace American Jews who identify as both the level of “resistance” to Trump as the border with Gaza in the name of the and IfNotNow — hasn’t merely stolen the political liberals and supporters of Israel are the idea that those who think ill of him “right of return,” which is synonymous for thunder from liberal Zionist organizations, speaking up lately about their plight. They are beginning to view Israel and its Israel’s destruction — such arguments they have recast the argument about have been caught in the crossfire between people as the moral equivalent of a red remain unpersuasive. Under these Israel to one that is focused on the Jewish leftist anti-Zionists and the Jewish right, state populated by a tribe of Jewish circumstances, it’s easy to comprehend state’s legitimacy. and many are starting to feel like orphans “deplorables.” why the majority of Israelis don’t see Our partisan differences in America of history. As historian Jarrod Tanny Part of the problem is that some critics a rational alternative to Netanyahu’s and Israel are insignificant when wrote recently in The Forward, those who of the Netanyahu government have policies and appreciate Trump’s compared to that unsettling reality. Hard share the antipathy of fellow liberals for adopted the same sort of rhetoric used by willingness to be more supportive of as it may be for many of us who are so President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime opponents of Trump. They don’t merely Israel than his Democratic predecessor deeply invested in disputes that have Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but support disagree with Netanyahu’s governing whom the majority of American Jews dominated Jewish life for a generation, Israel, are feeling very lonely. He argued coalition about the peace process or supported. they must come to realize that the debate nonetheless that those who claim this label even its friendly relationship with Trump. That puts American liberals has shifted. If you love Israel, the enemy must stick to their support for a two-state As two critics asserted in The Forward unalterably opposed to Trump and isn’t the settlement movement or those solution and a secure Jewish state while asserted, they consider it to be a band against Netanyahu in a tough spot. But who want “peace now,” but advocates of continuing to oppose the policies of the two of “fascists” threatening democracy and the notion that liberal Zionism is dead is intersectional ideology that falsely casts governments. leading Israel towards “apartheid.” absurd. Support for the Jewish state and Israel as an imperialist colony that is the The sense of isolation he was Netanyahu is far from perfect, and opposition to those who wish to deny the moral equivalent to both apartheid and feeling was heightened by the American his government is guilty of overkill in its right of the Jewish people to a state or Jim Crow. Jewish Committee’s latest survey of attempts to deal with advocates of BDS; their right of self-defense doesn’t require That means the Jewish right needs to American Jewish and Israeli opinion, banning them from the country is both one to back either leader or to give up on stop demonizing anyone who disagrees which showed that the majority of counterproductive and unnecessary. But the idea of a two-state solution. with them about settlements as a self- Israelis approve of Trump while U.S. his left-wing opponents seem to have a What is dead is the tired, right-left hating Jews, and liberal Zionists need Jews are overwhelmingly opposed to problem with democracy since they are debate about settlements and borders to resist the impulse to view anyone him. Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem unable to make their peace with the fact that has divided liberal Zionists from who supports Trump or Netanyahu as as Israel’s capital and his consistent that he keeps beating them at the ballot conservatives. What both sides must an accomplice to fascism. The defense support for the Jewish state in the conflict box, and legal problems notwithstanding, understand is that their old arguments of Zionism requires us to put aside our with the Palestinians was demonstrated retains the support of the majority of are obsolete. long-standing labels and take up the again when U.S. Ambassador to the Israelis. When the day comes that a Palestinian current struggle with the same passion United Nations Nikki Haley waged a As for the standoff with the leadership is willing to recognize the we summoned in the past to oppose lonely and courageous fight against a Palestinians, claims about the long- legitimacy of a Jewish state, no matter each other. Narrowing the gap: What being pro-Israel really means

By Matt Goldberg current government’s policies. Palestinians, most that engage in it entry to our tent. National executive director, The second story concerns the remain deeply Zionist. There are groups on the extreme Jewish Community Relations Council advocacy organization If Not Now, Case in point: J-Street, a pro-Israel right that deny that there is even such a Two recent stories in the news have which is primarily composed of Jews organization. Its voice needs to be heard. thing as a Palestinian. Some advocate reignited debate on what it means to be highly critical of Israel’s treatment of Should J-Street endorse Cockburn, it mass land confiscations, evictions and pro-Israel. the Palestinians, who want a forum with should go a long way toward dispelling population transfers. All this should be The first concerns Leslie Cockburn, campers at Camp Ramah, a group of any thoughts that she is anti-Zionist. anathema to Jews. a Democrat running for the U.S. House Conservative movement camps around Conversely, criticizing only Israel For Jewish groups, the same rules in Virginia’s 5th Congressional District. the United States and Canada. Proudly is anti-Semitic; that’s why we oppose apply. Jewish Voices for Peace is About 25 years ago, she co-authored pro-Israel, Camp Ramah has rebuffed BDS in all its forms. Advocating for a clearly anti-Zionist and often promotes a book targeting the American-Israeli this group, some of whom are its alumni. boycott or sanctions against Israel and blatant misinformation about Israel. It relationship. In the Israel advocacy world, there are not China, Russia or any other country, cannot be taken seriously. But a group In its review of the book, The New many national organizations, spanning whose human rights record is far worse like If Not Now is more complicated. Its York Times said, “Its first message is the political spectrum from very left to (even if you believe Israel is guilty of all writings, while certainly one sided, are not that, win or lose, smart or dumb, right or very right. the crimes of which it is accused, which propaganda-type lies. I would propose wrong, suave or boorish, Israelis are a I cannot emphasize enough the is ludicrous) is anti-Jewish. One BDS that all Zionists and pro-Israel advocates menace. The second is that the Israeli- number of conversations our organization response to this goes, “Well, you have to read about them and think long and hard American connection is somewhere has had about the proverbial pro-Israel start somewhere.” Well, when that start about some of the things they are saying. behind just about everything that ails us.” tent — who is in, who is out — but I will always appears to begin with the world’s Israel is a complicated nation, but the Her political opponents have accused shine some light as best I can. only Jewish state… “Israel is always right” people and those her of anti-Semitism based on this book. Criticism of Israel is not anti-Semitic. That brings us back to the proverbial who say “Israel is always wrong” do have However, Cockburn recently reminded While some pro-Israel groups specifically tent, which tells us who is kosher on something in common: Their messages voters that the book was written 27 years do not criticize Israel’s actions under any Israel and who isn’t. While the range will always be unable to convince those ago. She also said, “the U.S. should circumstances, those that do love Israel is wide, our measuring stick should be with nuanced views. support Israel, and yes, the U.S. should no less. basic Zionism: Belief in a Jewish and Why? Because Israel, like all nations, be supporting, to some degree, the Our own national organization, the democratic state composed of some is sometimes wrong and sometimes right. Palestinian Authority.” Jewish Council for Public Affairs, has part of the biblical land of Israel. There Our goal as pro-Israel advocates Furthermore, she said she was criticized Israel recently on its treatment can be strong disagreement on what that ought to be to emphasize the good, seeking the support of J Street, a pro- of asylum seekers and non-Orthodox parts of the land should be Palestinian, while not denying bad. Hopefully, Israel Israel advocacy organization that, while Jewry. While there is less national but this is fundamental. Recognition of a continues to strive to live up to its own supporting Israel, is often critical of the criticism of Israel’s treatment of the Palestinian entity must also be a part of high moral bar that it rightly sets for itself. American pediatricians go on mission to Kenya with IsraAID

Israel21c.com The mission participants, led by Dr. statement. “By providing up-to-date the psychological, water and medical Marking its first joint Israeli-American Michelle Sandberg and Dr. Sabrina training in pediatrics, the visiting needs of refugee and host communities. medical specialist mission, Israeli Braham from the Stanford University physicians can make a real difference Programs include two Child Resource humanitarian aid organization IsraAID School of Medicine, landed in May to the long-term prospects of Kakuma’s Centers serving more than 150 refugee arranged for a delegation of American and were greeted by Israeli peers children.” children per day, water technician training pediatricians to join the organization’s in the camp’s two hospitals and six Sandberg said it will be challenging for unemployed young people and ongoing medical program in Kakuma clinics operated by the International to work in an area with limited resources. specialist medical support for Kakuma’s Refugee Camp in Kenya. Rescue Committee and Kakuma Mission “It will also be hard to bear witness hospitals and clinics. According to IsraAID, Kakuma is one Hospital. The US doctors also will train to so much suffering, but I hope to have Since 2001, IsraAID medical teams, of the world’s oldest and largest refugee Kakuma’s medical staff. an impact by increasing awareness of search-and-rescue units, post-trauma camps and is chronically understaffed. It “Major health issues affecting the refugee problem in this part of the experts, community specialists and houses more than 185,000 refugees from Kakuma’s residents vary, and have world and the important work IsraAID is other professionals have responded countries across the region. Nearly 60 recently included malaria, lung infections, doing,” she said. to emergencies and disasters in 46 percent of Kakuma’s refugee population tuberculosis, HIV, malnutrition and IsraAID launched its activities in countries. The organization also runs is under the age of 18. cholera,” said IsraAID in a press Kakuma in 2011, working to support long-term aid programs in 16 countries. Summer 2018 SHALOM Page 8 10 incredible Israeli techs that are transforming lives worldwide

Israel21c.com with eight dialyzers that costs one-third that clips onto a toilet bowl to facilitate avoided in case of fire because they’re “The companies featured in Solution of an equivalent, leading filtration system frequent and hands-free screening not protected from flames, extreme Nation are addressing acute pain points — can produce eight liters of water per for signs of colorectal cancer.The heat and toxic gases. Salamandra blindness, amputations, food shortages, minute. This is easily enough to supply device’s spectral isolation and imaging Zone’s B-Air E unit, placed on top of polluted water, radioactive contamination all of the daily water needs to 200 to technologies rapidly analyze solid waste elevator cabs, converts toxic gases and more,” writes David Wanetick, author 300 people in Africa — in one hour,” for indicators including blood content, into breathable air in nanoseconds. of a new book describing 62 Israeli writes Wanetick. The water purifiers microbiome stability, texture and color Sensors in B-Air E determine the types, companies developing solutions to are operated with hand pumps or solar that could be warning signs for cancer, concentrations, and mix of chemicals that problems “that threaten to end life itself power, requiring no chemicals and little irritable bowel syndrome, colitis or should be released to convert the smoke or materially degrade the quality of life.” maintenance, as their membranes are Crohn’s disease. The smart device can to air depending on which materials are “The primary audiences for self-cleaning. NUF systems are operating even distinguish among different people burning. The pressure of the purified, Solution Nation are investors and in Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Fiji Islands, in a household based on Bluetooth cooled air being pushed into the elevator business professionals,” said Wanetick, Cambodia, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Ghana, signals from their nearby devices.“Such cab prevents smoke from entering when a California resident who’s written Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria. frequent screenings should be at least the elevator is moving or when its doors company and patent valuation reports Health security: Senecio of as successful in detecting digestive open. For added safety, the units contain for Israeli companies and has invested Kfar Saba put a twist on an existing diseases as submitting to expensive an extra battery, pump and sensor. in Israeli companies for about 15 years. mosquito-control method of releasing and invasive colonoscopies once every Backup electricity can operate it for at “I wanted to enable readers to make a sterile male mosquitoes in infested decade,” writes Wanetick. least three hours. determination as to whether the featured areas by using airplanes rather than Clean energy: TaxiBot, a semi- Automotive safety: GuardKnox of companies will succeed in delivering their vans, greatly increasing the coverage robotic pilot-controlled towing tractor Ramla has a Communication Lockdown solutions to intractable problems to the perimeters.“Releasing millions of made by a division of Israel Aerospace product that prevents any app, patch market,” writes Wanetick. sterile male mosquitoes from airplanes Industries, allows pilots to leave their or upgrade from making contact Food security: In Africa, a staggering traveling at 250 kilometers per hour, in aircrafts’ engines off during taxiing and with a connected vehicle unless it 30 to 50 percent of post-harvest corn what I call Operation Infinite Romeo, parking. The result is a significant savings was specifically sanctioned by the fails to reach the market. A lot of that presents monumental challenges,” writes on jet fuel and carbon dioxide emissions, automaker. The device protects vehicles loss is due to rodent, fungus or aflatoxin Wanetick.Among these challenges are as well as reduced risk of hearing loss from cyberattacks even when traveling infestation that happens when the grain sourcing the fragile insects, packaging for ground crews. TaxiBot, already in in areas lacking communications is being dried and stored.Tel Aviv- them in containers, estimating the use at the Tel Aviv and Frankfurt airports signals. “Suppose an automaker based Amaizz resolves this problem number needed per acre (four sterile and certified for Boeing’s B737 and sets the upper range of a particular with solar- or electric-powered modular males for every wild female) and A320 planes, can reduce the number car’s speed signal at 120 miles per drying, disinfection and storage units determining optimal flying routes and of gallons of jet fuel consumed when a hour. Separately, suppose that the lined with thermoplastic and capped with times of day for release. “Senecio has plane is taxiing by 84 percent. “Given activation of automatic braking requires anti-algae meshes. The units’ unique developed sophisticated algorithms and the fact that each gallon of fuel emits agreement from two independent ventilation system balances the humidity, robotic processes set up in assembly-line 9.57 kilograms of carbon dioxide, the sensors. No matter which access precipitation and temperature.Amaizz formation” to accomplish these tasks. reduction in carbon dioxide emissions points hackers use to try to manipulate started sales with a unit in Senegal and is Netanya-based BioGenCell is would be more than 6,000 kilograms per the car’s speed or braking protocols, developing an add-on disinfection system developing a stem-cell therapy to treat hour,” writes Wanetick. GuardKnox blocks any instructions as well as a heating system that will be a painful vascular disease called critical Fire safety: Fighting Treetop Fire of that are not sanctioned by the car targeted to corn farmers in Latin America limb ischemia, a leading cause of Jerusalem is developing infrared laser manufacturer,” writes Wanetick. and Eastern Europe. The system also amputations. The company’s BGC101 technology for pruning the tops of trees The Eyes-On system from Foresight could be modified to deal with crops compound, when mixed with the patient’s to prevent the spread of active forest Automotive in Ness Ziona uses such as wheat, sesame, sorghum, rice, own stem cells taken from a simple blood fires. “Fires occurring on the tops of stereovision cameras to capture a range and coffee. draw, creates natural artery bypasses trees can be fifty times hotter, and move of data about objects in the path of the car Water security: Caesarea-based and enhances the formation of additional much faster, than fires on the ground,” that pose a potential hazard, and warns NUFiltration helped solve the problem of blood vessels to better supply blood to Wanetick explains. Firefighters will be drivers visually or audibly about these what to do with some of the 125 million damaged tissue.While other biotech able to use FTF lasers to trim leaves off objects. Foresight has demonstrated dialyzers (artificial kidneys used in companies are pursuing cures for the high branches just by scanning the lasers in hundreds of tests that at medium dialysis) discarded annually worldwide: same disease using stem cells from bone across treetops from as far away as one distances of 20 to 30 meters, Eyes-On They sanitize and repurpose these marrow, BioGenCell’s method is less kilometer, including from helicopters over can determine the distance to the object sophisticated filters as water-purification invasive. When injected, the BGC101 difficult terrains and in windy conditions. with an accuracy of 20 to 30 centimeters. devices for developing countries.Inside formula “knows” to grow only where Another Jerusalem firm, Salamandra The cameras capture between 30 and the NUF machines containing four to 640 revascularization is needed. Zone, developed a technology enabling 45 images per second and achieve near dialyzers, a single dialyzer can purify 50 OutSense, based on Kibbutz people to use elevators to escape 100 percent accuracy beginning with the to 200 liters of water per hour. “A system Nahsholim, is developing a device high-rise fires. Ordinarily, elevators are first frame. First-ever female tank commanders make IDF history

For the first time in IDF history, considering the possibility of having women four female soldiers, including a new serve in the armored corps, several former immigrant from England, have become high-ranking officers and religious groups tank commanders after a 16-month pilot come out against it, including former IDF program and will be deployed to the chief rabbi Yisrael Weiss, who argued that Egyptian border with Division 80. if a male and female soldier are put “into “There has never been such an a closed box for a week... you’ll get a little experience in the IDF,” said chief armored tank soldier in another nine months.” The officer Brig.-Gen Guy Hasson, adding that IDF responded to the criticism, stating the four female tank commanders are “four that even if the pilot program is deemed amazing and determined women. We successful, there would be no mixed- understand the potential in the operational gender tank crews and female tank crews value of both the Border Defense Forces will not be part of battalions, which would and the Armored Corps,” Hasson said, operate in enemy territory. Rather, they stressing that “there is potential here would only be deployed to the borders. for girls who really want to work for the Hasson confirmed that there will defense of the state.” be no mixed tanks. Every tank under The pilot program began with 15 female command will have only female female recruits beginning basic training in fighters.“It’s a first-of-its-kind role for southern Israel, with two recruits dropping women and opens a door for women out just after two weeks. The 13 remaining for a new roles,” said 20-year-old Noga recruits then moved to Shizafon where they their training and were applauded by the you did so successfully.” Shina, another graduate of the course. were divided into three squads headed by head of the corps’ training brigade Col. One of the first female tank “People around me think this is a very a senior tank commander, completing Moran Omer during a ceremony. “We’re commanders, 20-year-old Sgt. Charlotte positive opportunity because this is their tank training on the Merkava Mark-3 standing before a bit of history. For the Feld-Davidovici made aliya to Israel from the first job of its kind and I get to be a model, which they would be operating. first time, a tank operator medal will be England two years ago. pioneer and to be one of the first women This part of the program was designed to pinned on the uniform of female IDF “Becoming one of the first female in the Armored Corps.” According to test the recruits’ ability to perform routine soldiers,” he said. “You stood up to the tank commanders in the IDF means not Hasson, if they are required to engage border security, differentiating them from difficult physical challenges, learned the only do I get to fulfill my role of defending an Islamic State group terrorist squad their male counterparts who also train profession and, no less importantly, you the country, but I also get the opportunity attempting to infiltrate from Sinai, they for all-out war exercises. Throughout the learned to love the power of metal. We to bring women forward in combat and will be able to do so. training, the recruits were monitored by demanded you complete the full and long open up chances for future generations While an additional three recruits army nutritionists, doctors and exercise training program … after you were fully to defend their country just like their male dropped out during their tank training, the instructors. trained as fighters in the Border Defense counterparts,” she said. other 10 finished and will serve as combat In December, the recruits finished Force — no simple mission in itself — and When the IDF announced that it was soldiers in the IDF’s Caracal Battalion. Page 9 SHALOM Summer 2018 Golan residents launch viral campaign to aid Syrian refugees The Golan Regional Council has of sweet and sweet joy,” Malka said. launched an initiative to collect items “These are our neighbors, and we see for children and humanitarian aid for this as a mitzvah to help them in times Syrian refugees fleeing the conflict in of trouble.Thank you in advance to southern Syria. anyone who joins this mission.” Hundreds of thousands have been There was also a call for baby forced flee their homes and villages bottles, pacifiers, clothes, shoes, and to the buffer zone near Israel’s Golan other such things for the refugees. border as fighting between the Assad Within hours the council’s Facebook regime and the rebels intensifies. post had been shared nearly 200 “The refugees have arrived (at the times and liked more than 400 times buffer zone) without basic equipment for with people from across the country proper survival,” said Golan Regional volunteering to donate items from Council head Eli Malka. “In addition to areas such asJerusalem, the Galilee the humanitarian activities that the IDF and Tel Aviv. has been carrying out in recent days, The Golan Regional Council, which I have decided to open a center for is made up of about 32 Israeli villages collecting supplementary equipment in and towns, has repeatedly appealed order to enable the refugees to exist in for urgently-needed items such as a humane manner.” blankets, non-perishable food, toys Malka explained plans for a and clothes. mobilization and collection of items in A Facebook post in response each of the communities. From there appealed to the residents of Rehaniya from Kibbutz Dan, offering to donate took place over several hours. Three the material would be taken to the in the Haifa area and Kafr Kama in the a box filled with games, adding that hundred tents were transferred along council’s center and transferred to the lower Galilee to take part in the initiative “we also translated a few games into with 13 tons of food, 15 tons of baby IDF, which will give out the aid and to assist the refugees.“The children’s Arabic. We will be happy to donate food, medical equipment and medicine items to Syrian refugees. toys or gift bags will be donated to games in Arabic.” and 30 tons of clothing and footwear. “We would love any families in the comfort the (Syrian) children who are All the aid collected by the council This humanitarian aid was Golan to make sealed bags for a Syrian going through such a difficult period,” was to be transferred to the IDF for specifically transferred by the IDF to child with toys and small toys, coloring the post said, adding that a truck would delivery to the refugees. On one recent camps where Syrians fleeing hostilities pages, crayons and sweets that will not take the items to the councils’ center in week the IDF transferred humanitarian are residing in the southern and central melt, to provide them with a moment the Golan Heights.People volunteered aid as part of a special operation that Syrian Golan Heights. Making friends while racing with ‘the other’ in Jerusalem

Israel21c.com organizing a mixed girls running group. Since participants are a self-selecting is that school principals from the Arab Philip, like many of the teens involved “We did not know each other and we group eager to interact, Haas has not neighborhoods of eastern Jerusalem in Arab and Jewish Jerusalem running were connected by some friends,” Haas witnessed any problems between the refer adolescents to the group. However, group Runners Without Borders, doesn’t explains. “We decided to join forces two populations, many of whom live a challenge remains in overcoming some know enough Arabic to converse with his and establish an NGO.” They engaged on the remote edges of the city in low Palestinian leaders’ desire to avoid counterparts from Arab neighborhoods. a Jewish coordinator and an Arab socioeconomic conditions. “We try to avoid “normalization” with Jewish Israelis. But as a recent Russian immigrant, he coordinator in addition to professional politics as much as we can. The message While Arab and Jewish RWB runners barely speaks Hebrew either. running coaches. we try to convey is one of just wanting to have participated every March for four While running through Jerusalem’s From the very beginning, Haas felt break down the barriers and let people get years in the Jerusalem Marathon, only Liberty Bell and Mesila parks for training that typical Arab-Jewish coexistence to know each other,” says Haas. Arab runners have been allowed to once a week, Philip nevertheless has efforts based on the Western emphasis Some RWB runners feel this is register for the Bethlehem Marathon later made friends. “He found common ground on dialogue don’t take into account the best accomplished by learning one the same month. Haas is optimistic that with both sides, communicating with Middle Eastern mindset and are therefore another’s language. “Walid from the Arab this policy will change. “We have about 50 signals and a few words as they run of limited value. “When you want to neighborhood of Ras el-Amud joined us runners from East and West Jerusalem together,” says Israel Haas, cofounder bridge between two sides you can’t use at age 15 and started learning Hebrew involved in ongoing activity on a weekly of RWB, which encourages Jewish and the tools of one side and not the other. seriously and practiced by conversing while basis,” says Haas. He recently launched Arab residents of the city to meet, interact That’s why Shoshana and I chose sports, training. Now, at 18, he speaks Hebrew a separate crowdfunding campaign to and cooperate through athletics. and specifically running, because we very well and insists on talking on the give an extra boost of stability to the RWB was formed in November 2014 both are runners and we know it’s a very phone in Hebrew with Jewish participants youth team. “We just want to create a in response to a tense year punctuated easy platform. In football or basketball and the Jewish coordinator,” says Haas. common zone where Jews and Arabs by racial violence and war. Haas was you need to communicate in a common “And he’s not the only one. We also see can get to know each other. If you know organizing a mixed boys running group language but in running you just run Jewish participants taking Arabic courses.” each other, you won’t do bad things to and Shoshana Ben-David was separately together and everybody is equal.” One testament to its positive impact each other,” concludes Haas. Tunnel-detection tech offers safer, cheaper colonoscopies

A promising new technology for and prevention of colorectal cancer, through the colon, gently and quickly.” human clinical trials in the next 12 improving colonoscopies got its start the second most lethal cancer in The device, so far tested in animal months,” Agmon says. It will be another as a way to remotely explore smuggling the world with 1.4 million new cases models and colon simulator, is meant to three to four years until the FDA tunnels. When a tunnel is discovered, diagnosed a year worldwide. Doctors be cheaper, safer and more comfortable approves a fully functional device. homeland security or military personnel recommend regularly colonoscopies than a traditional endoscope. He says the company is looking need to quickly and safely determine beginning at age 50. More than 15 The balloon is discarded afterward. to collaborate, rather than compete, what’s inside. Beersheva-based million colonoscopy tests a year are The only part needing cleaning is the with big companies in the colonoscopy startup IBEX Technologies developed performed in the United States. If colon electronic head containing a camera space to bring down the costs of the a thin inflatable “sleeve” that can be cancer is caught early, the five-year and light source. exam and to help avoid lawsuits. robotically piloted into a dark tunnel. relative survival rate is 92 percent. Although the Consis Medical sleeve Regarding virtual colonoscopies, A camera attached to the front end of However, colonoscopies are works very differently than Given Agmon says there are two problems: the sleeve transmits real-time live video expensive. A single endoscope — the Imaging’s PillCam Colon 2 camera First, virtual usually means using a CT and high-resolution images. medical device used to perform the capsule or Check-Cap’s C-Scan x-ray machine with x-rays to examine the IBEX’s RoboSleeve also can be used procedure — costs upwards of $60,000, capsule — both Israeli companies — all colon, not necessarily a cheaper or by first responders during disasters and clinics typically purchase several are intended to be less invasive than safer alternative. such as earthquakes, hurricanes endoscopes. In addition, cleaning an traditional colonoscopies. Second, while virtual exams and collapsed mines, and to inspect endoscope after each use costs about Another Israeli company, GI View, and capsule technologies can spot sewage, water and gas piping systems. $100 due to the special equipment received FDA approval a year ago for its suspicious polyps, they cannot remove As IBEX’s founders, Oleg Popov and needed. Moreover, the procedure is disposable self-propelled endoscope. them. A classic colonoscopy is needed Raphael Moisa, continued to work on notoriously uncomfortable and runs German company Invendo makes a in order to do a biopsy. “So most their autonomous sleeve, they thought a chance of complications, including disposable endoscope that received doctors prefer the real colonoscopy about other types of “tunnels” that perforating the colon. FDA approval in January. from the start,” Agmon says. might be relevant for their technology. Consis Medical designed a self- Agmon says Consis Medical’s Consis Medical has its own That’s when they hit on the idea that propelled disposable endoscope that projected price is the lowest, at management team and investors – would become Consis Medical, a spin- enters the colon like a “soft elongated about $100 per unit, and could help primarily the Israeli Innovation Authority off from IBEX focused on the 2-meter party balloon,” said Ido Agmon, Consis the company break into emerging — and is still small, with just three long tunnel inside the human body: Medical’s business development economies, including China and India, people on staff. The goal for 2018, the colon. manager. As the balloon inflates, where the number of colonoscopies is Agmon says, is to raise $2 million Colonoscopies are the current using liquid or gas, an “inverted sleeve growing rapidly. to build out the team and take the gold standard for early detection expands and carries itself all the way “Our plan is to get into the first company through clinical trials. Summer 2018 SHALOM Page 10 May 2010 Shalom Page 10 Federation Honorial - Memorial Card Information HonorialsHonorials and and Memorials Memorials ContributionsContributions may may be be made made to to the the following following Funds: Funds: Please mail your payment with complete information to the Jewish FederationUJA-Federation Jewish Campaign Community Campaign $10 $10 Federation, PO Box 14925, Reading, PA 19612-4925 or bring to the Jewish Jewish Family Service $10 Jewish Family Service $10 Cultural Center, 1100 Berkshire Blvd, Suite 125, Wyomissing. You may set up Leo Camp Lecture Fund $10 a “savings account” for the purpose of sending cards. Please contact the JFSLeo FoodCamp Bank Lecture Fund $10 $25 Jewish Federation at 610-921-0624 for further information. JFS TaxiFood Transportation Bank Program $25 $25 JFS Taxi Transportation Program $20 Contributions as of April 16 Holocaust Library & Resource Center $18 Contributions as of July 13 DorisHolocaust Levin Library Fund & Resource Center $18 $10 Federation Jewish Community Campaign PJDoris Library Levin FundFund $10 $10 InUJA-Federation honor of: Campaign In honorMichele of: Abramson’s marriage – Barbara Nazimov Harry & Rose Sack Fund $10 Sarah Simon’s engagement – Vic and Dena Hammel Michael Clymin (Ellen Abramson’s father) – Susan and Richard D’Angelo Matthew Driben’s high school graduation – Barbara Nazimov Evelyn Thompson Fund $10 Alma and Ed Lakin’s new home – Vic and Dena Hammel, Mildred & Ivan Frank Mehringer – Edith Mendelsohn Audra Nemirow’s high school graduation – Barbara Nazimov Gordon Isaac Singer’s high school graduation – Barbara Nazimov Abby Goldberg’s high school graduation – Beth and Bob Caster Sam Goodman’s engagement – Alma and Ed Lakin Talia Rotenberg’s Bat Mitzvah – Barbara Nazimov Anna Balchunas’ graduation from NYU – Beth and Bob Caster Alyse Corbin’s marriage – Carol and Bernie Gerber, Alma and Ed Lakin Richard and Elizabeth Nassau’s son’s wedding – Rob and Yvonne DorisMarj Levin Berman’s Fund graduation from Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health OppenheimerSue Viener’s Birthday – Yvonne & Rob Oppenheimer –In Beth memory and Bobof: Caster Birth of Selma Cutler’s great-grandson Jacob - Debbie Goodman and John Dr. Walter Gershenfeld – Stephanie and Dennis Arbige, Carole and Mike Thank you to Rabbi Michelson for officiating the wedding ceremony Dana Rosenzweig receiving her MBA from the Wharton School – Beth and Moyer Robinson of my niece Nancy Nitzberg to Donald Cresswell – Al Diamond Bob Caster Birth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Debbie Goodman and Shoshana Tannenbaum – Carole and Mike Robinson Henry Singer’s birthday – Debbie Goodman and John Moyer, Sue Wachs Brian Wernick completing his surgical residency at St. Luke’s Hospital – John Moyer Beth and Bob Caster In memory of: HolocaustTroy Fidler’s Library Bar Mitzvah and Resource – Beth and BobCenter Caster GetAdrienne well: Bartos – Judy Copeland In memoryBenjamin of: Primack’s Bar Mitzvah – Beth and Bob Caster Harold Leifer – Rob and Yvonne Oppenheimer TaliaShoshana Rotenberg’s Tannenbaum Bat Mitzvah – Ken and– Beth Mary and Holt, Bob George Caster and Sue Viener, Sue Schlanger, Gordon and Carol Perlmutter, Leah Kanter-Salis, Rosemary and John Deegan, Naum and Lyudmila Ger, Louis and Katherine Danzico, Florence and Evelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund JFS Taxi Transportation Program InJewish memory Family of: Service Marvin Segal, Vic and Dena Hammel, Emma Holder, Susan Gallagher, Mildred & In memory of: In honorShoshana of: Tannenbaum – Beth and Bob Caster Ivan Gordon, Carrie & Stephen Latman, Judy, Bob & Susan Pollack, Anna & Moisey – Al and Betsy Katz Shirley Blacker – Michael and Barbara Charnoff Matthew Driben’s high school graduation Schneider, Norman & Rita Wilikofsky, Audrey Williams, Alan and Esther Strauss, – Al and Betsy Katz JewishAbby FamilyGoldberg’s Service high school graduation Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz, Carol and Bernie Gerber, Barbara and Seth Rosenzweig, Brian Wernick completing his Surgical Residency at St. Luke’s In honor of: JohnDoris Castrege Levin Fundand family, Michael Geraci, Maxine & Dick Henry, Piekara Family, – Betsy and Al Katz HospitalBirth of Carol and Gordon Perlmutter’s new grandson – Sue and George Viener, LauraIn memory Higgins of: – Evelyn and Jay Lipschutz BetsyMichele and Al KatzAbramson’s marriage Adrienne Bartos – Linda and Mickey Roeberg Bat Mitzvah of Fran Mendelsohn’s granddaughter – Rosalye Yashek In memory of: FriendshipSue B. Viener Circle Memorial Fund (PJ Library) Adrienne Bartos – Kathleen and Richard Roeberg In memory of: In honorGet well: of: Marcia and George Eligman ShoshanaLynn Salpeter Tannenbaum – – Jill and Gladys Skaist HaroldMichele Leifer Abramson’s – Glenn andmarriage Gaye Corbin– Sue Wachs Evelyn Thompson Nursery School Fund HolocaustIn honor of: education spreading in Berks County Matthew Driben’s high school graduation – Beth and Bob Caster Continued from Page 5 also that the students are genuinely On a wider note, there have justice and Holocaust remembrance today. silence is not the reason why survivors interested in hearing their stories. I know been many recent developments in I am heartened to hear that three additional are invited in. Instead, that factor is my students were genuinely interested in Holocaust education in Berks County schools in Berks County will be offering present because of the immense respect hearing Hilde’s story and many still talk and the surrounding areas.August Within � Avthese-Elul courses for their students. students have for these individuals and about it now, several weeks later. the past month I have met with two Though the fourth quarter of the individuals who are in the process school year has begun, there are still of developing a Holocaust course to many additional opportunities that Shabbat Candle Lightings Torah Portions  be offered at their local high school. remain. I just spoke to an undergraduate  OneAugust gentleman 3 was from Lancaster Augustethics 4/ Avclass 23 at Penn State Berks County.7:58 p.m . The other, Gerry Evans, is a Eikevregarding (Deuteronomy the ethical/moral 7:12-11-25) implications teacher at Hamburg High School. I of the Holocaust. I found the students August 10 August 11/Av 30  have7:50 p.m. been in contact with two other Re’ehto be (Deuteronomy receptive 11:26 and-16:17 inquisitive) and local teachers, Pete Ruckelshaus at have been asked to deliver a similar  Twin Valley and Jim Konecke at Wilson program in the classes that the same HighAugust School. 17 Pete has resurrected a August18professor/Elul also 7 teaches at Reading Area  7:40 p.m. Shoftim (Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9) course on Holocaust Literature at Twin Community College.  Valley,August 24 and its first offering is during AugustAs 25 mentioned/Elul 14 above, Kim Yashek, the7:30 current p.m. fourth quarter. He is very Kidaughter Teitzei (Deuteronomy of the late 21:10 local-25:19 Holocaust) excited about offering this course to survivor Richard Yashek, is speaking at  his students and has even lined up Twin Valley, Hamburg and Fleetwood. August 31  several7:19 p.m. guest speakers including Rabbi Right now Albright College is hosting Brian Michelson, Kim Yashek and Hilde an exhibit titled, “Stories Among Us: Gernsheimer. Washington State Connections to the Jim Konecke is teaching at Wilson Holocaust, Lessons in Genocide.” The

Central Junior High but will be moving up exhibit includes the stories of five Holocaust to Wilson High School at the beginning survivors and one liberator and has of next school year. He will be offering a received good reviews. It is definitely course on Nazi Germany. HisTOT students SHABBAT worth a visit! It will be at Albright’s Gingrich will be studying this period of German Library through May 10. history in depth, including aE studyND of OFthe SUMMER *** rise of anti-Semitism, the initial period of Jennifer Goss teaches social studies the Holocaust and the Final Solution. The in the Fleetwood School District and latter part of the course will look at post-warBBQ specializes in Holocaust education. Plan for your Bar/Bat Mitzvah & Wedding Guests!

11:00 AM, SUN., AUGUST 26TH HOSTEDREADING AT THE HOME OF JENNIFER & JOSEPH WOODWARD 2801 Papermill Road Wyomissing, Pennsylvania8 HUMMINGBIRD ROAD, WYOMISSING GROUP RATESFAMILIES AVAILABLE WITH CHILDREN THROUGH GRADE 2 & SIBLINGS ARE WARMLY WELCOME. RSVP to [email protected] or 610-921-0624 Call AlicePLEASE for a Site BRING Tour A DESSERT. RSVP BY FRI., 8/17 TO by Aug. 20. [email protected] (610) 736-2082 ✦ www.reading.homewoodsuites.com Page 11 SHALOM Summer 2018 More fun at the JCC Annual Meeting and Picnic

IT ALL STARTS WITH YOU You make everything we do — possible.

Shelter Awaken Identity Every night in the U.S., More than half a million young 553,742 people experience adults have participated in homelessness. Federation Federation-sponsored trips to helps families get emergency Israel as part of strengthening their cash assistance to keep a roof Jewish identity and connection. over their heads.

Nourish Provide In Israel, 350,000 children, live at or below the poverty Crisis Relief line. Federation-funded partners serve lunch to Three-quarters of Jewish children who get very little Houston live in areas hard breakfast or dinner at home. hit by Hurricane Harvey. Federation was on the ground within 24 hours — doing whatever was needed. As we did in Florida after Hurricane Irma, New Orleans after Katrina and anywhere else where disaster has struck.

Sustain Educate Approximately 100,000 Holocaust survivors live in the Over the past decade, with U.S. today, with an estimated the help of Federation funding, Jewish community day school 30,000 living in poverty. Federation helps survivors enrollment in the U.S. has live the remainder of their grown by over 40% — so that lives in dignity and comfort. today almost 300,000 day school students are enrolled.