HAKOL - October 2016

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY 40th ANNIVERSARY

The Voice of the Lehigh Valley Jewish Community

OCTOBER 2016 | ELUL/TISHREI 5777

8ish Over 80 brings Jewish community together to celebrate older adults

By Michelle Cohen HAKOL Editor The Lehigh Valley Jewish community will gather on Nov. 13 to celebrate the lives and accomplishments of 16 remarkable people over the age of 80 who have donated their time, talents and hearts to enriching our community.

An elegant champagne brunch in their honor will be hosted by Jewish Family Service at Temple Beth El. The proceeds from the brunch will benefit older adult services. “The whole community coming together is the idea of this event,” said Debbie Zoller, executive director of JFS. “It’s wonderful to honor older people

Under the Same Moon begins another year. See page 3.

who make a difference in people’s lives. Though there are so many who could be honored for giving of their time and talent, we start with these 16 who each have a great story to share.”

Each of the honorees was chosen by a synagogue or Jewish agency in the Lehigh Valley. “Who knows better than the organizations around the Valley where people serve who their extra special seniors are?” said Wendy Born, president of JFS, who came up with the idea for the event.

As part of the process, the organizations were instructed to choose individuals with “dedication of time, talent and mensch-like qualities” in the Lehigh Valley, and of course, at

8ish Over 80 Continues on pages 12-13

Prepare for the election with two community events.

See page 7.

Two past HAKOL editors reflect on changes and community

By Michelle Cohen HAKOL Editor Editor’s note: The following serves as Part 2 of a story in the September issue about the history of HAKOL.

Learn about two local Torahs with extraordinary stories.

See page 18.

No. 391 com.UNITY with Mark Goldstein 2 Women’s Division

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LVJF Tributes

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Jewish Family Service Jewish Community Center Jewish Day School

11 14-15 16

Community Calendar

22-23

The HAKOL you hold in your hands has come a long way from the eightpage, Allentown-focused, non-advertising paper that began 40 years ago. One of the main forces spearheading the changes from the original paper to the HAKOL of today has been editorial involvement. Here, two past editors of HAKOL reflect on the changes they made to the paper and the sentiment of the paper that continues to this day.

Carolyn Katwan was

Non-Profit Organization 702 North 22nd Street Allentown, PA 18104

U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lehigh Valley, PA Permit No. 64

the editor of HAKOL for 13 years, beginning in June 1997. Katwan, a native of the Lehigh Valley, described her experience with HAKOL as giving her a “gratifying connection to community,” a type of connection that was different from what she experienced growing up. In order to cultivate this connection, Katwan made a number of changes to the production process of HAKOL to modernize the paper, its look and the way it arrived in homes.

With the additions of a computer, layout software and a program called Quark, Katwan brought the designing process in-house, so that the editorial board could cut and paste articles – literally – to maximize the space and create a standardized look for the paper. The cost of this venture was covered by advertising, a new feature Katwan introduced to increase the paper’s revenue.

HAKOL began its journey to advertising by offering sponsorship opportunities for a single issue to individual retailers for a flat fee of $1,800. However, since there were no ads in the paper, the advertiser was not getting much exposure, which made it hard to find advertisers who were willing to pay this

cost. Katwan’s response to this was to “create a better product” with various measures such as increasing the page count, creating a regular production schedule and designing a more professional look for the paper.

In order to get businesses to believe in HAKOL as a solid vehicle for their advertising, Katwan led her team in a complete redesign of the paper to create a “modern and appealing” product to sell. The resulting ad revenue allowed HAKOL to expand further and begin to dabble in color pictures.

“As ad revenue came in, it enabled us to grow it further,” Katwan said. “We started developing an editorial calendar that would also benefit the advertising but critically to try to keep in sight that even as we introduced special issues and things like that, that the focus and connection was always there back to our mission and the Jewish community.” As she changed the content to add more personalized stories from community members and special sections, she never lost sight of HAKOL’s true reason for existing: the Jewish community that HAKOL served.

“It’s the Jewish connec-

Carolyn Katwan

Jennifer Lader

tive tissue for the community,” Katwan said. “It’s the one place where everything comes together and is visible and open to the rest of the HAKOL editors Continues on page 5

com.UNITY

FROM THE DESK OF MARK L. GOLDSTEIN

Executive Director | Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley markg@jflv.org

I am Mark Goldstein and I approved this message There are so many things I would like to write about the upcoming elections. Suffice it to say this election poses for our consideration very different candidates with differing outlooks and strategies for their leadership. Hopefully we can plow through the chatter of the 24-hour news cycle which continues to over-report and make news out of non-newsworthy matters, leaving little time for serious reporting about the candidates and their positions. Of course, we should all take time to vote, but we should also take the time to understand the candidates and their positions. And that is the same for our state representatives (or other local races) through your choice for President of the United States.

In the past we have held a political forum featuring candidates or their representatives. I regret that we are not hosting a forum this year. There is greater competition for such debates.

The candidates and their parties don’t accept every offer for these programs. And this year, the Jewish holidays rolling into October made scheduling very difficult.

Hopefully, we will be back as host of a political forum in a future election cycle.

But there are two opportunities to receive expert pre-election political analysis by Dr. Chris Borick, director of the Institute of Public Opinion at Muhlenberg College. On Wednesday, Nov. 2, at 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Brith Sholom, Borick will be joined by Dr. Gordon Goldberg, professor emeritus of history at Kutztown University, and the progenitor of the Gordon Poll, a Jewish community fixture for a decade.

On Thursday, Nov. 3, Dr. Borick will reprise his pre-election analysis at Congregation Keneseth Israel at 7 p.m. I urge you to attend one or both of these programs. See more information about both programs on page 7.

This year we are commemorating the 40th anniversary of HAKOL. I do not know about the early years of HAKOL, but I know when I arrived at the Federation HAKOL was not accepting paid political advertising (for that matter, HAKOL was not accepting much paid advertising of any kind). Our HAKOL Editorial Board reviewed the issue of paid political advertising and approved a policy enabling the acceptance of such advertising over 12 years ago.

As a charitable not-for-profit

organization, we act in accordance with IRS guidelines as well as the federal election regulations.

Although the Federation must remain politically neutral, we are not prohibited from contact with politics or politicians. That’s why our Community Relations Council sponsors political candidate forums, organizes missions to Washington and Harrisburg to meet with our legislators, and mounts letter writing campaigns on issues of concern to the Jewish community. We are allowed to express positions on particular issues before our elected officials, but we are not allowed to endorse any candidates.

That decision rests with you and is done so – hopefully – out of a process of educating yourself on the candidates and their positions.

It is important for Jewish Americans, as individuals and as a community, to remain actively engaged in political discourse. Carolyn Katwan, then HAKOL editor and Federation assistant executive director, wrote in a February 2008 HAKOL column: “American Jews have exercised their right to vote enthusiastically and in percentages far greater than the national average. Our participation has served us well – on issues from Is-

rael to civil rights to Soviet Jewry – and will continue to do so if we remain active, informed, engaged and accessible. The fact that candidates view our vote as important and significant demonstrates the role of the Jewish community in today’s electoral process.”

Over the years, our HAKOL Editorial Board and Jewish Federation Board of Directors have reaffirmed our policy to accept political advertising in HAKOL. This practice is mirrored in the vast majority of Jewish community newspapers sponsored by their Jewish federations. In accordance with federal regulations, our advertising policies offer equal access to all candidates. The presence of an advertisement does not represent an endorsement of a candidate; likewise the absence of an ad from a candidate does not reflect a position by HAKOL or the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley on that candidate.

If the political prognosticators are correct, Pennsylvania

HAKOL

– and the Lehigh Valley – will be important to the outcomes of the November 8th elections. Our Jewish community stands at the heart of the region and should take the time to educate ourselves.

The candidates are seeking our attention and seeking our votes.

Let’s wholeheartedly participate in the American political process as a knowledgeable and educated electorate. When that occurs, the best candidates shall surely win.

I am Mark Goldstein, and I approved this message.

HAKOL STAFF Stephanie Smartschan

JFLV Director of Marketing

LEHIGH VALLEY

Michelle Cohen

HAKOL is published 11 times per year for the Jewish communities of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and vicinity by the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley.

Graphic Designer

COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS Submissions to HAKOL must be of interest to the entire Jewish community. HAKOL reserves all editorial rights including, but not limited to, the decision to print any submitted materials, the editing of submissions to conform to style and length requirements, and the placement of any printed material. Articles should be submitted by e-mail or presented as typed copy; “Community Calendar” listings must be submitted by e-mail to hakol@jflv.org or online at www. jewishlehighvalley.org. Please include your name and a daytime telephone number where you can be contacted in the event questions arise. We cannot guarantee publication or placement of submissions.

Mail, fax, or e-mail to: JFLV ATTN: HAKOL 702 N. 22nd St. Allentown, PA 18104 Phone: (610) 821-5500 Fax: (610) 821-8946 E-mail: hakol@jflv.org

Editor

Allison Meyers Diane McKee

Advertising Representative TEL: 610-515-1391 hakolads@jflv.org

JFLV EXECUTIVE STAFF Mark L. Goldstein Executive Director

Jeri Zimmerman

Assistant Executive Director

Temple Coldren

Director of Finance & Administration

Jim Mueth

Director of Planned Giving & Endowments

Aaron Gorodzinsky

Director of Outreach & Community Relations

Mark H. Scoblionko JFLV President

EDITORIAL BOARD

Monica Friess, Acting Chair Barbara Reisner Judith Rodwin Sara Vigneri

Member American Jewish Press Association

All advertising is subject to review and approval by The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley (JFLV). JFLV reserves the right to decline, withdraw and/ or edit any ad. The appearance of any advertising in HAKOL does not represent an endorsement or kashrut certification. Paid political advertisements that appear in HAKOL do not represent an endorsement of any candidate by the JFLV.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY MISSION STATEMENT In order to unite, sustain, and enhance the Lehigh Valley Jewish community, and support Jewish communities in Israel and around the world, the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is dedicated to the following core values:

• Supporting Jews in need wherever they may be.

• Supporting Israel as a Jewish homeland.

• Supporting and encouraging Jewish education in the Lehigh Valley as a means of strengthening Jewish life for individuals and families.

• Supporting programs and services of organizations whose values and mission meet local Jewish needs.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY We gratefully acknowledge those individuals who have offered expressions of friendship by requesting that trees be planted in the Yoav--Lehigh Valley Partnership Park.

IN HONOR TRACEY AND JASON BILLIG Birth of their son, Micah Charles Billig SHALOM BABY ALICE AND ALLEN LANG Happy 50th Anniversary Sandy Coleman and Family

IN MEMORY GRANDMOTHER (of Lary Ghelman) Israel and Valeska Zighelboim MILLARD GRAUER (Father of Wendy Born) Roberto and Eileen Fischmann

Jeri and Len Zimmerman ANDREW HOFFMAN (Son of Janine and Donald Hoffman) Sandra and James Schonberger

TO ORDER TREES, call the JFLV at 610-821-5500 or visit www.jewishlehighvalley.org.

2 OCTOBER 2016 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

To accomplish this mission the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is committed to the following operating guidelines: • Raising and distributing funds to support the core values.

• Developing Jewish leaders.

• Building endowments to support implementation of core values.

• Committing to ongoing Jewish community strategic planning.

• Fostering cooperation among organizations and community building.

• Evaluating all decisions with respect to fiscal responsibility.

• Identifying unmet needs and investing in community initiatives to help get them started.

• Coordinating and convening a community response as an issue or need arises.

• Setting priorities for allocation and distribution of funds.

• Acting as a central address for communication about events, programs and services of the Jewish community as a whole.

Approved by the JFLV Board of Directors on November 15, 2000

Pen pals stay connected ‘Under the Same Moon’

By Stephanie Bolmer Special to HAKOL For three years now, kids in the Lehigh Valley and Yoav have been learning about how they all live ‘Under the Same Moon.’ That’s the title of the book that second and third graders from religious schools in the Lehigh Valley and third graders from Haela School in Yoav receive from Partnership2Gether and read together with their families. The book teaches the

children how even though they live on opposite sides of the world, they’re not so different from each other after all.

“The purpose of the program is to teach our kids and theirs that our communities have a lot of things in common,” said Aaron Gorodzinsky, director of outreach and community relations for the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. Each child is paired up with a pen pal in the other country, and in six sessions throughout the year guided by their teachers, they get to know their new friend the old-fashioned way – through writing letters. “Technology is not allowed until the last session,” Gorodzinsky said. “Then, during the sixth session, we do a Skype call with all of the kids.” After their year of being part of the project is over, the families are encouraged to keep in touch however they like best.

One such family who has done just that is the Wilsons. Carol Wilson is in the midst of planning her daughter Rebecca’s bat mitzvah, which will take place in Yoav on Oct. 18, and she says the Israeli friends that her family has made through “Under the Same Moon” have “really stepped up to help [her] plan it,” aiding her with all the time and language barriers that come with planning an event in a distant country. Rebecca and her pen pal, Tamar, started their exchange three years ago, and they have continued the connection long after their turn in the program was up.

“It’s just been a wonderful, wonderful experience,” Wilson said. “We parents really began a lovely relationship back and forth, and it’s been a very positive experience for Rebecca.” The girls got to work on

their language skills as they got acquainted. “Rebecca would write out what she wanted to say in Hebrew first,” Wilson said. “Then she would type it in English into Google Translate. She would send both versions so that Tamar could really get the gist of what she was saying. Tamar would do the same thing on her end.”

Through this innovative approach, they formed a friendship across the ocean.

Kids like Rebecca and Tamar in the”Under the Same Moon” program share information with each other like favorite hobbies and their birthdays, and the girls and their families have made sure to remember each other at holidays and other special days. One of the hopes behind the program, as Gorodzinsky said, is that “when families from the Lehigh Valley visit Israel, they will make an effort to meet their pen pals in Yoav.” Another goal is that some of the Yoav students who participate might go on to become schlichot at summer camps here in the States in the future, like the fellow counselors Rebecca’s brother, Ben, met this summer and will see when they travel to Israel for Rebecca’s bat mitzvah. The whole Wilson family is looking forward to sharing this milestone with their newfound friends, as they will get to meet Tamar and her parents in person for the first time.

As the Wilsons continue to reap the benefits of discovering they live “Under the Same Moon” as Yoav, another year of the program is kicking off now, and more connections are being made like Rebecca’s and Tamar’s. Over 100 families have participated so far, bonding over letters, sharing holiday traditions and making lifelong connections.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 3

WOMEN’S DIVISION OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY

Local ‘Women of Valor’ celebrated at lunch and learn At the “Women of Valor” lunch and learn on Sept. 22, Gail Eisenberg and Susan Clemens presented their continued research on the Jewish women who made an impact on the local textile industry. During much of the 20th century, these women contributed in their various roles as wives and mothers, community leaders, career women and entrepreneurs. The women discussed in the presentation were Roz Mishkin, Shirley Berman, Tama Fogelman, Bea Kuller, Beverly Bloch, Claire Salitsky, Ronnie Sheftel, Marilyn Braunstein, Ellen Schneider, Marlene Finkelstein, Bunny Filler, Maxine Klein, Judy Miller, Delores Delin, Goldie Hartzell and Esther Halperin.

Muhlenberg researchers Gail Eisenberg, left, and Susan Clemens, second from right, gather with the women featured in their research who attended the Lunch & Learn. From left: Ronnie Sheftel, Ellen Schneider, Bunny Filler, Maxine Klein, Marlene Finkelstein, Tama Fogelman, Marilyn Braunstein and Judy Miller.

Lion conference brings women together

SPONSORED BY THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY’S WOMEN’S DIVISION

WELCOMING NEW BABIES

to the Lehigh Valley EVAN JARED PURE son of Alyssa and Abram Pure

BRYNN PIRRALEE LOWREY daughter of Caren and Keith Lowrey

If you’re expecting, know someone who is, or have a new baby, PLEASE LET US KNOW! Contact Abby Trachtman, 610-821-5500 | abbyt@jflv.org

4 OCTOBER 2016 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Bat Galim Sha’ar (second from right), mother of Gilad Sha’ar, one of three yeshiva students who was kidnapped and killed by terrorists in 2014, greets Lehigh Valley lions at the International Lion of Judah Conference.

Sha’ar addressed the conference, saying that though she’s come through a difficult time, she has felt the embrace of the Jewish world and was fortunate enough to recently celebrate her daughter’s wedding. Eva Levitt (left) was honored with the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland award at the conference. Beth Kozinn (right) also attended, alongside her sister Ann Falchuk (second from left).

Handmade Afghans

BY EVA LEVITT

All proceeds benefit projects in Israel:

Food Banks in Israel Neve Michael Youth Village

For prices or to place an order, call Eva 610-398-1376.

All payments are made payable to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley

Maimonides brunch to tackle Jewish genetics

By Michelle Cohen HAKOL Editor Editor’s note: Karen Arnovitz Grinzaid, MS, LCGC, CCRC, senior director of JScreen and instructor at the Emory University School of Medicine, will speak at the Maimonides Society Bagel Brunch on Sunday, Oct. 16, at 10:15 a.m. at the JCC. Q: Please tell us a little bit about what you plan to cover in your talk.

A: I’m going to be talking about genetic issues in the Jewish community and the importance of people learning about their genetics, and that’s going to include talking about carrier screening for people who are planning to have children in the future or to expand their families. In that regard, I’m going to be talking about a program I’m the director of based at Emory University in Atlanta called the JScreen program. It’s an online, athome, Jewish genetic disease screening program that lets people register for genetic screening online, order a testing kit to their home, send that in for testing for over 100 diseases and then get their results by phone from our genetic counselors.

The program is trying to make genetic screening re-

HAKOL editors Continues on page 5

community, so people can see what’s going on and feel connected and feel a sense of pride in who we are, what we do, within the congregations, within the agencies, and within the Federation and Federation system, here and in the broader Jewish world.”

Jennifer Lader, who edited HAKOL from March 2012 until January 2015, was proud to “build on what others before had established” to bring HAKOL even closer to readers’ hearts and minds.

Lader’s vision included deepening HAKOL’s connection to the community by drawing writers from within the community. Lader, who lives in Bethlehem, appreciated the opportunity to meet and interview Allentown and Easton residents and share their stories. It was also during Lader’s time that the paper went full color, beginning in September 2012, which allowed for the inclusion of higher-quality photos that enabled readers to dive deeper into the articles.

The “Jewish Destinations” column, which still continues today, was one way Lader brought people together by asking readers

ally convenient and affordable. I’m also going to talk about genetic diseases that impact the Jewish community like breast and ovarian cancer and some other conditions that can affect people where they have symptoms but may not realize they have a genetic condition. It’s really an overview about Jewish genetics and the importance of knowing about testing.

Q: Why is Jewish genetic testing important?

A: The testing is very important because people in the Jewish community, or even interfaith couples, can be carriers for genetic diseases and they’re healthy, they don’t know they’re carrying these genes, but if they have children with someone who carries these genes, they can be at risk. The only way to know if your children are at risk is to get this testing done.

back in, and then the genetic counselors with the JScreen program contact the person and talk to them about their results over the phone or a secure video conference.

Q: What specific genes are the test looking for, and what can they do?

A: On the JScreen test, we’re testing for over 100 genetic diseases. That includes diseases like Tay-Sachs, Camavan disease, cystic fibrosis, fragile X … In those 100 diseases, about 40 of those are common in Ashkenazic, Sephardic, and Mizrachi Jewish populations, and the rest of the diseases are common in the general population. The test is applicable to anyone.

We are talking to the Jewish population about testing, but this test is applicable to anyone, including interfaith couples or non-Jews.

Q: How did genetic testing in

the Jewish community come about, and how has it evolved over time?

A: The first big widespread genetic screening program was for Tay-Sachs in the early 1970s. That started when a test became available to let people know whether or not they’re a carrier. After the 1970s, Tay-Sachs testing continued, but our ability to test for genetic diseases has improved so much since the early 1970s that we’re now able to test for many diseases at the same time. Also, there are many more disease genes that have been identified in the Jewish population, so screening now is much more comprehensive than it used to be and we’re able to give people a lot more information if they’re planning to have families.

Q: Any concluding remarks?

A: A lot of people feel very reassured if they don’t know

Karen Arnovitz Grinzaid

of any genetic diseases in their families, that they’re not at risk. Talking about this is very important because these things can stay unnoticed in a family and it’s possible that two carriers get together and have an affected child. Knowing this information and getting tested is very important in the Jewish community.

The program is free for Maimonides members and spouses, $10 for community members.

RSVP to mailbox@jflv.org.

Q: How can an individual or a couple get tested?

A: People go online to our website, which is www. jscreen.org. They watch an educational video, and then they register for a screening kit. That kit comes to them in the mail. They provide a saliva sample that they mail

to share stories about their vacations and any related Jewish concepts. Along with high-quality trip photos, this column brings readers into the vacation experience of fellow Lehigh Valley residents. Themed supplemental sections such as the Senior Living section focusing on “Fun & Games” and the “Passover Around the World” section designed to give a global feel to the holidays further engaged readers on subjects they enjoyed.

As editor, Lader frequently asked the question of “how can we be better?” Her way of answering this question went deeper than the two awards HAKOL won during this time. “The main thing we think of is our audience,” she said, adding that “it’s the readers that make HAKOL special.” Her improvements were thus designed to enhance the reading experience and overall readability of the paper.

Throughout all of these changes, one thing has stayed steady for 40 years: a dedication to HAKOL as the Jewish newspaper of the Lehigh Valley, designed to serve and educate our community.

This article is part of HAKOL’s 40th anniversary celebration.

Look out for more anniversary coverage throughout the year.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 5

In preparation for Rosh Hashanah, PJ kids learn to ‘repair the world’ PJ Library and Temple Beth El families celebrated Rosh Hashanah at Strawberry Acres on Sept. 18 with a program about “repairing the world.” The kids heard a story and shofar blowing from Rabbi Seth Phillips of Congregation Keneseth Israel. Then they went on a “story walk” with activities at each station, including dipping apples in honey.

Young Adult Division Coats & Cocoa Drive promises happier winter for local children

By Michelle Cohen HAKOL Editor

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The Young Adult Division of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is sponsoring a Coats & Cocoa Drive this October to ensure that children in need in the Lehigh Valley have warm clothing and a favorite holiday treat in time for the cold weather.

The coats will be donated to the Jewish Family Service Community Food Pantry, where children’s coats are in great demand, said Rebecca Axelrod-Cooper, community impact coordinator at Jewish Family Service. It’s particularly special when a child can select his or her own coat, she said.

Cocoa is a way for children to not only stay warm in the

winter, but also to fit in with their friends and experience a winter joy they might not have been able to otherwise, AxelrodCooper said.

Aaron Gorodzinsky, director of outreach and community relations at the Jewish Federation, urged people to get involved with the Coats & Cocoa Drive.

Whether that means attending the PJ Library event in the JCC sukkah on Oct. 23 at 2 p.m. where the price of admission is a coat and a box of cocoa mix, or simply bringing coats and cocoa to JFS or dropping them off at the JCC or the Jewish Day School, “it’s our responsibility to ensure that we play our part to ensure that the younger generations have the necessary tools to succeed,” he said, adding that “it

wouldn’t be responsible of us to spend another winter knowing that there are kids in our community without jackets.” As for the cocoa, “we all share memories of cocoa with our families,” Gorodzinsky said. “We want to go beyond the basic necessities to ensure that kids in our community can build happy memories this winter.”

New or gently used children’s coats, size infant to 16, and boxes of cocoa mix may be dropped off at JFS or the collection bins at the JCC or JDS throughout the month of October.

PJ Library families are invited to join the Young Adult Division and Jewish Family Service in the JCC sukkah on Sunday, Oct. 23, at 2 p.m. for a Sukkot program. Admission is a coat and box of cocoa mix.

‘Lots to talk about’: KI, CBS events promise election insight

EN COMP RE

Y AN

Some anticipate, others dread, the upcoming 2016 US presidential election. Meanwhile, the strength and breadth of feeling make for a highly charged environment. To help voters prepare, two Lehigh Valley synagogues are set to host polling events on consecutive nights, just days before the election.

“I have never seen anything like this election cycle,” said Chris Borick, professor of political science and director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion, who will speak at both events. “Donald Trump is unlike any other presidential nominee in U.S. history, and Hillary Clinton's nomination is, of course, [significant] for breaking a major glass ceiling.

“Add in the fact that both carry historically high unfavorables among the electorate and you have a unique election cycle that will be one for the history books,” Borick said.

At 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 2, at Congregation Brith Sholom in Bethlehem, Gordon Goldberg, professor emeritus of Kutztown University, will team up with Borick in “Election Forum: Certainty v. Uncertainty.” Goldberg will conduct a poll, said to be highly accurate in predicting the outcome of the general election. Borick, a dynamic speaker, will discuss national and local polls, and the Congressional race.

This is the sixth time Brith Sholom will

host such a forum, having begun in 2006 with the Bush-Kerry contest. The event is co-sponsored by the Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley.

The very next evening, at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 3, at Congregation Keneseth Israel in Allentown, Borick will speak at “History in the Offing: The 2016 Election by the Numbers.” He will examine the results and meaning of the various polls.

“It will give voters unique knowledge and insight immediately prior to the election,” said Barry Cohen, event coordinator, on behalf of the KI Adult Education Committee.

For those considering attendance at both events, Borick said, “I always like to throw in some unique material for individual talks.

There certainly is lots to talk about this year!”

Borick is a nationally recognized public opinion researcher who has conducted over 300 large-scale public opinion surveys during the past two decades. The results of these surveys have appeared in numerous periodicals including Time Magazine, The Wall St Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post.

Borick has provided analysis for the BBC, National Public Radio, PBS, MSNBC, CBS News and NBC Nightly News and had his survey results aired on CNN, FOX News and C-SPAN.

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The events are free, open to the public and include refreshments.

Camp Ramah director to speak about ‘making Jews’ at major donor reception

By Michelle Cohen HAKOL Editor Rabbi Joel Seltzer, executive director of Camp Ramah in the Poconos, will tackle the topic of "Making Jews in 21st Century America" at a reception for Jewish Federation major donors on Oct. 6. The phrase “making Jews” might sound odd, but it gets at the central point of Seltzer’s talk.

The phrase comes from a piece he studied with members of the community this summer, by Rabbi David Moligner, z”l, who was the director of Camp Ramah of the Poconos in the 1960s and 1970s. He summed up the enterprise of Ramah with the simple phrase “Ramah makes Jews,” and now, Seltzer looks to the broader application of this phrase.

“What can we do as Jewish communities to make Jews?” he asked. “What are the experiences we need to be invested in and supporting, since they take these children of ours and turn them into Jewish leadership for the next generation?

How do we take formative experiences like camp, day school and synagogue life and support them so that

we’re building the next generation of Jewish life?”

Seltzer’s talk, three years after the PEW Institute for Research portrait of American Judaism sparked concern and pessimism due to the data displaying “erosion of people’s perception of their Judaism, synagogue affiliation and membership, and support of the state of Israel,” is trying to bring hope back into the conversation. “I think there are reasons to flip the conversation and focus on the positive things that are happening and then think about what are the takeaways for all of us,” he said.

“Now is the time for us as the Jewish community to redouble our efforts,” he added. “To find out elements of the Jewish community that are working, to share best practices from those programs and opportunities and go back to our home community and see what are these models of innovation that we’ve learned and how can we apply them in our community to hopefully get success.”

for Jewish Needs. To learn more, visit www.jewishlehighvalley.org.

The reception will be presented to families who have made a minimum commitment of $5,000 to the 2017 Campaign HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 7

IN MEMORY DORIS GOELD (Mother of Roberta Epstein) Beth and Wes Kozinn Leon and Elaine Papir Perry and Carol Zirkel DORA MAE GORDON (Mother of Arthur Gordon) Mickey and Eileen Ufberg (Mother of Amy Gordon-Langbein) Mickey and Eileen Ufberg MILLARD GRAUER (Father of Wendy Born) Sam and Sylvia Bub and Family Peter and Karen Cooper Jeanette and Eduardo Eichenwald Iris, Jonathan, Harry and Charlie Epstein Roberta and Jeff Epstein Carol and Stewart Furmansky Sandra and Harold Goldfarb Amy Golding and Family Mark and Amy Holtz Beth and Wes Kozinn Roberta and Robert Kritzer

Taffi Ney Leon and Elaine Papir Donald and Randi Senderowitz Enid and Alan Tope Vicki Wax Arthur and Barbara Weinrach Israel and Valeska Zighelboim (Grandfather of Lisa Ellis) Israel and Valeska Zighelboim JOEL KATZMAN (Brother of Francine Katzman) Lenny Abrams and Family (Brother of Seth Katzman) Lenny Abrams and Family Jeanette and Eduardo Eichenwald Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz Leon and Elaine Papir DAVID SHREWSBURY (Husband of Eva Shrewsbury) Sandra and Harold Goldfarb DAVID WEINER (Husband of Cynthia Weiner) Taffi Ney (Stepson of Jean Weiner) Donald and Randi Senderowitz

IN HONOR ELAINE ATLAS Bat Mitzvah of her granddaughter, Sydney Jeannie and Holmes Miller MARLA BLOCK Best Wishes on her New Home Iris, Jonathan, Harry and Charlie Epstein JUDY AND MARC DIAMONDSTEIN Engagement of their son Noah to Marnie Peter and Karen Cooper Iris, Jonathan, Harry and Charlie Epstein Beth and Wes Kozinn Vicki Wax BERNIE AND BUNNY FILLER Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein ROBERTO AND EILEEN FISCHMANN Birth of their granddaughter, Charlotte Eve Beth and Wes Kozinn Taffi Ney SANDRA AND HAROLD GOLDFARB

Marriage of their granddaughter, Courtney Roberta and Jeff Epstein Vicki Wax JAMIE GORDON AND MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ Birth of their daughter, Iris Ross and Wendy Born JUDY GREENBERG Happy "Special" Birthday Ed and Beth Posner RABBI ALLEN AND TOBY JUDA Birth of their granddaughter, Juliette Ella Ross and Wendy Born Taffi Ney LARRY LANG AND ELAINE DEUTCH Engagement of their daughter Marnie to Noah Vicki Wax PAUL LANGER Happy "Special" Birthday Jeannie and Holmes Miller Ed and Beth Posner Arthur and Barbara Weinrach SUZANNE LAPIDUSS Birth of her grandson, Micah Charles Billig Mark Goldstein and Shari Spark Beth and Wes Kozinn EVA LEVITT Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award Iris, Jonathan, Harry and Charlie Epstein Roberta and Jeff Epstein Audrey and Arthur Sosis PAM LOTT AND RON TICHO Engagement of their son, Nathan CAREN AND KEITH LOWREY Birth of their daughter

Ali and Shay Shimon and Family RABBI ALAN AND PATTI MITTLEMAN Marriage of Joel Vicki Wax RONNA SCHNEIDER Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award Iris and Jonathan Epstein DONALD SENDEROWITZ Speedy Recovery Jim and Andrea Jesberger Beth and Wes Kozinn Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz Taffi Ney LINDA SILOWKA Birth of her grandson, Dempsey Ross and Wendy Born MARSHALL SILVERSTEIN Happy ‘Special’ Birthday Arthur and Barbara Weinrach RON AND MELISSA STEIN Engagement of their daughter Julie to Wesley Sherman Jay and Evelyn Lipschutz OZZIE STEWART Speedy Recovery Roberta and Jeff Epstein FRED SUSSMAN Happy 80th Birthday Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein MARC AND SUSAN VENGROVE Birth of their granddaughter Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein Beth and Wes Kozinn MARGO WIENER Speedy Recovery Donald and Randi Senderowitz JERI AND LEN ZIMMERMAN Birth of their granddaughter, Norah Bea Zimmerman Peter and Karen Cooper HELEN & SOL KRAWITZ HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL FUND IN HONOR GAYLE RADER Speedy Recovery Joani Lesavoy and Sid Greenberg DONALD SENDEROWITZ Speedy Recovery Joani Lesavoy and Sid Greenberg We gratefully acknowledge those individuals who have offered expressions of friendship through recent gifts to the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation. The minimum contribution for an Endowment Card is $10. Call 610-821-5500 or visit www.jewishlehighvalley.org to place your card requests. Thank you for your continued support.

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Sukkat Shalom: A shelter of peace

RABBI MICHAEL P. SINGER Congregation Brith Sholom Every night, in the second blessing after the Sh’ma, Hashkiveinu, we ask God to protect us and watch over us.

We ask God to spread over us God’s “shelter of peace” (sukkat sh’lomecha). While I understand the language of “shelter of peace” to be symbolic, what message did the author intend by the choice of the sukkah as the structure of peace? Why should God only put over us a sukkah, which by its very nature is temporary and provides little protection? Why not instead choose a tent of peace, which would at the very least keep out the elements, or a house of peace

or a palace of peace, or better yet, a fortress of peace? I believe that the pairing of the words “sukkah” and “peace” can teach us more than we think.

I remember the first time I tried to build a sukkah by myself. I did not want to trouble anyone and I thought, foolishly, that it would be a simple exercise in engineering. (“simple” and “engineering” are two words that do not go well together.) Lo and behold, I found this to be an impossible task. For hours I poured blood and sweat into building the sukkah, only to have it collapse repeatedly. I learned that if you want a sukkah to remain standing, it takes at least the assistance of another person. (Or in my case, two other people.)

This is an extremely powerful lesson. Like the building of a sukkah, peace takes the labor of more than one person or side.

It cannot be unilateral. Whether it is an argument between two individuals or two nations, peace cannot be forced upon people. Instead, both sides must be willing to take part in the active building of peace and making mutual sacrifices.

Even when a sukkah is complete, there is still a sense of vulnerability or precariousness about whether it can withstand

the elements. Will the wind blow the canvas walls apart?

Will the rain cause the branches on the roof to give in? It takes constant maintenance and care to keep a sukkah up. Repairs and adjustments will undoubtedly need to be made. Peace is similarly fragile and vulnerable. There will always be people who seek the destruction of peace for their own gain. Therefore, those who understand the significance and blessings of peace need to be vigilant and continue to strengthen it against those who wish to undermine it.

A sukkah may not be the perfect structure for God to spread God’s peace over us, but I believe it reflects the closest reality we have. The building of the sukkah, just like the building of peace, takes a team effort, which must continue amid any setbacks encountered. A sukkah, just like peace, is fragile and demands of us vigilance and care. The reward in both sukkah building and peacemaking, is the enjoyment of some of God’s greatest blessings. May we all work hard together this new year to mend old wounds and build our own “sukkat sh’lomehca” sukkahs of peace.

Moadim L’Simcha! (A joyous holiday!)

Clergy group’s new leader looks to future

By Michelle Cohen HAKOL Editor Once a month, 16 clergypeople meet to discuss the future of Judaism in the Lehigh Valley.

The group, comprised of rabbis and cantors from all area synagogues, and more, provides clergy to sit on the boards of local Jewish agencies, comes up with and organizes events and serves as a place for clergy to brainstorm dynamic new ways to interact with their congregations.

Rabbi Melody Davis, the rabbi of the Reform synagogue Temple Covenant of Peace in Easton, began serving as the chairperson of the clergy group this September, and was happy to discuss the inclusivity and positivity of the group. “It’s truly multidimensional,” she said, explaining how the group offers camaraderie, support and education for both rabbis and cantors across the Lehigh Valley.

Currently, Davis and her colleagues focus on projects like the yearly community selichot service and educating themselves on triumphs and pitfalls of the various Jewish agencies in the Lehigh Valley.

The group welcomes agencies to provide updates on what they’re doing, what they need and what they can offer the community. The clergy group is also trying to learn about relevant issues for their sermons, and recently hosted a speaker who discussed testing for genetic diseases commonly found in Jewish populations as well as signing up as an organ or bone marrow donor.

Davis was also thrilled to discuss her dreams for the future, most of which focused on more educational opportunities around the Lehigh Valley. “I want to see Jewish musicians across the spectrum, a Jewish arts fair, craft classes and learning of different levels for different groups” such as parent-andchild, college age and adult education, Davis said. “We hope to spread Jewish learning and activities across the Lehigh Valley.”

The group also has time to

focus on internal matters; Davis said “we share ideas and serve as resources for each other,” and in addition to helping each other with synagogue issues, the rabbis and cantors enjoy learning together and bonding.

To learn more about the clergy group or to get involved, contact Rabbi Melody Davis at rebmelody@gmail.com or 610-2532031. Donations for the Lehigh Valley Jewish Clergy Group can be made to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley (memo: clergy group).

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 9

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8ish Over 80: Me Tama Lee Barsky

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Elaine Atlas & Helen Besen

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least 80 years old to qualify, Born said. “Our community has honored lots of people in the past, but not that specific age group. We feel that we have a dynamic group of people over 80 and we want to recognize them,” she added.

Although the event was originally to be called “8 Over 80,” it quickly became apparent that there were far more than eight people who deserved recognition. The 16 honorees, comprised of individuals, couples and teams, have volunteered extensively across the Lehigh Valley, each lending his or her “active, engaged and menschy” qualities to the community, said Carah Tenzer, co-chair of the event.

“The idea to honor their achievements is a natural extension of admiring and thanking our community role models, while bringing together the Jewish organizations who are supported by the efforts of the 2016 honorees and their friends,” said Tenzer.

The event, which will feature a brief presentation from JFS as well as a video featuring the honorees in their own words, is intended not only to celebrate the efforts of these remarkable people, but also to inspire the whole community to improve the lives of seniors in the Lehigh Valley.

“The 8ish Over 80 idea addresses the potential for aging actively, safely and healthfully – with the reality that there are many unmet needs for far too many individuals over age 65 in our community,” Tenzer said. “The proceeds from the event will go directly toward supporting older adult services at JFS, and helping that program to grow its scope and client base.”

Born added, “We believe this will inspire people of all age groups to realize that you can utilize your energy in such a beneficial way to the community. You’re never too old to volunteer.” In addition to helping others, she noted, volunteering can keep a person “socially, emotionally and physically active” at any age.

Audrey Nolte, co-chair of the event, had the pleasure of calling several of the honorees to let them know they’d been selected. Describing the joy she felt in making these calls, she was particularly struck by one person’s remark: “I never did it for credit, I did it because I think it’s the right thing to do.”

“They’re our leaders and they’re such fine examples,” Nolte said.

“It’s a great way to say thank you for a lifetime of contributing to the Lehigh Valley Jewish community,” Zoller added.

The 8ish Over 80 brunch will take place on Sunday, Nov. 13, at 10:30 a.m. at Temple Beth El. To learn more about admission and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.jfslv.org/8ishOver80.

Maur & Doe Levan Elaine Atlas & Helen Besen Elaine Atlas and Helen Besen both moved to Allentown in the 1960s, and met because their children were in the same Hebrew school class. They teamed up for a major project at Congregation Sons of Israel, where they help people weave their own tallit. They have woven over 800 tallitot since the 1970s, and are energetic to continue the project with new community members. In addition to their work with Sons of Israel, Helen was the chairperson of Nearly New at the Allentown JCC, and both Helen and Elaine were active at the Hebrew school when their children attended; Elaine was president at one point, and Helen was treasurer. Their other community involvements include the Women’s Auxiliary and JCC programming.

Tama Lee Barsky Tama Lee Barsky has been volunteering in Allentown for almost her entire life. Beginning with driving for Meals on Wheels during her college years at Cedar Crest, she has never stopped finding new opportunities to get involved. Most recently, Tama Lee has been involved in The Perfect Fit for Working Women.

In this role, she helps women pick clothes and accessories that will make them look professional for interviews. In addition to Perfect Fit, Tama Lee has been involved with Jewish Family Service for many years. After serving as the fundraising chairperson on JFS’s board for nine years, she recently signed up to drive for The GO Program, in which drivers help seniors get to their doctor’s appointments and shop for necessary items.

Eleanor Bobrow Ellie Bobrow has been the “point person” for maintaining the Rosh Chodesh Group at Temple Covenant of Peace. She and her chief “co-conspirator” Cindy Daniels have planned and organized the yearly Lehigh Valley Women's Seder and other Rosh Chodesh events. She is an active member of TCP and its Sisterhood. She is a much loved part of TCP's yearly Purim Schpiel. Ellie is the host of a weekly self-help show on public radio called "Take Charge of Your Life," covering a variety of topics

including health wellness and m long member o Ellie was a sop school, she rec from Hadassah scholarship to truly a life chan

Nate Braunst Nate Braunste leader and a fu lence, and dem skills when he tion campaign Beth El campa has also served the JCC and T ment in Jewish beyond the Le has served as b vice chairman project renew for the Jewish North Americ the United Jew a passionate m efforts to his b Valley Jewish c Jewish leaders the Lehigh Val

Henriette En Henriette Enge involved with v many years, w organizations.

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Len Glazier Len Glazier ha on his face and engaging perso to work every full day at Glaz

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h, relationships, more. She is a lifeof Hadassah. When phomore in high ceived and accepted h a seven-week Israel. This was nging event for her.

tein ein is a consummate undraiser par-excelmonstrated these chaired a Federaand the Temple aign committee. He d on the boards of TBE. His involveh volunteerism goes ehigh Valley; he both the national and the national wal chairperson Federations of ca, then known as wish Appeal. He is man, dedicating his belief in the Lehigh community, Israel, ship and enriching ley’s Jewish future.

ngelson elson has been volunteerism for with many Jewish At her synagogue, El, she has served ain and Sisterhood s volunteered to be ervices, make phone in the kitchen. Adhas served as the riendship Circle for erved on the JCC d JFS in teaching sian immigrants and JCC’s Nearly New. unteering experitime spent at Lehigh and local nursing l as serving on the assah Allentown, rd for the handiboard for autistic wonderful being gelson said upon rews. “That was part atever I could do to help others.”

as a perpetual smile d an outgoing, onality. He drives y day and puts in a zier Furniture, an

Anita Goldman

Herman & Jessica Ytkin

Ferne Kushner

Len Glazier Allentown fixture for nearly a century. Volunteering has always been a part of his life. Lenny is a past president of Congregation Keneseth Israel and serves on the cemetery committee. He takes the mitzvah of bikur cholim to heart and visits shut-ins and those in the hospital on a weekly basis.

Len cannot attend the event because he will be dancing at his grandson’s wedding.

Harold Goldfarb Harold Goldfarb has always been willing to lend a hand to the Jewish Day School and to the community at large. He is a member of Congregation Keneseth Israel, Temple Shirat Shalom, Temple Beth El and the Jewish Community Center, and actively supports the Jewish Day School.

A big supporter of education, his major motive for setting up the Goldfarb Family Fund that benefits Jewish organizations is a hopeful expansion of Jewish knowledge and the continuation of a dedicated and knowledgeable Jewish community. He also served as the chairman of Israel Bonds for many years, is a member of the Maimonides Society, and has stayed involved with Federation since he moved to Allentown in 1968.

Anita Goldman Anita Goldman was born in the Bronx. She studied at City College in New York and at Cedar Crest College in Allentown. In the 60s, with the drug problem hitting the Lehigh Valley, Anita and eight other concerned citizens founded Confront and Keenan House. Confront provided out-patient services and Keenan House provided in-patient services. Keenan House was the first program of this kind in the state. Today these two facilities, known as Treatment Trends, continue offering addiction and rehabilitation services to the area. Anita received drug counseling training at Encounter in Manhattan and the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute in Philadelphia. She worked as a counselor and group therapist for over 20 years. Anita joined Congregation Am Haskalah early in its existence. She served as recording secretary, as a board member and on the Social Action Committee.

She continues to be active as the

Harold Goldfarb hostess of the book group.

Ferne Kushner Ferne Kushner does everything with a full heart. She enjoys charity work, and volunteers for jobs others might not find appealing, including serving as the groundskeeper at the Keneseth Israel cemetery. “You have a lot of people under you,” her husband of 62 years joked. She has also been a board member at the JCC and KI. Her longest volunteer commitment was 40 years of service to the Red Cross. She is also an avid teacher, having taught at the JCC nursery school. She now offers knitting lessons.

Maur & Doe Levan “Love and companionship, friendship and learning” is what Doe Levan thinks about when she recalls her and her husband’s years of volunteer service. The Levans first got involved with the Lehigh Valley Jewish community thanks to their membership in Congregation Sons of Israel for 25 years. After moving to Bethlehem, they joined Brith Sholom and have been involved for the past 20 years. Their synagogue involvement included serving on the board, hosting dinners, and participating in committees. Doe was involved in the Women’s Auxiliary at the JCC and was on the tallis making committee at Sons of Israel.

Judy Sennett “Everything I’ve ever done was because I thought it was important.” Judy Sennett has lived that mantra throughout her 46 years in the Lehigh Valley. Being the heart and soul of two reform synagogues, Temple Shirat Shalom and Congregation Keneseth Israel, she has dedicated countless hours by serving on Sisterhood boards, the JCC Women's Auxiliary Board, chairing donor dinners for student scholarships, and chairing ad books and temple directories. Her passion for the blood bank began when leukemia stole the lives of her 36-year-old uncle and a dear 10-year-old child of a friend. Judy’s greatest love is working with children.

Martin Weinberg Martin has been the president and the moving force for the Friend-

Judy Sennett

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The club meets weekly during the program year. As membership has naturally been falling and leadership has been harder to find, Martin never gave up. He has maintained his presidency, recruited new members and found new leadership. He is primarily responsible for the continuation of the Friendship Circle at the JCC. In addition to Friendship Circle, Martin volunteers at St. Luke’s hospital, logging an impressive 4,000 hours over the past 13 years.

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Herman & Jessica Ytkin Herman Ytkin was born and raised in Easton, and along with his wife Jessica, he has been an active volunteer in Easton for many years. The couple met 55 years ago at a basketball game, and since then, they have been proud to dedicate their efforts to Bnai Abraham Synagogue in Easton. Herman is a thirdgeneration member of the synagogue, and he has taken on a variety of roles including leading minyan on Thursdays and managing the cemetery for the past 32 years. Jessica served as sisterhood president and spent 30 years as the financial secretary for the synagogue. The Ytkins are still actively volunteering; Herman drives and Jessica delivers food for Meals on Wheels in Northampton County. Jessica is also a member of the knitting club in Easton.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | SEPTEMBER 2016 13

14 OCTOBER 2016 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 15

16 OCTOBER 2016 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Father and son participate in Israeli-Montenegrin cultural exchange

By Alan Mittleman and Ari Mittleman Special to HAKOL In early autumn, we travelled to scenic Kotor, Montenegro, to participate in a unique cultural and diplomatic event, coordinated

by Ari. With Ari acting as an intermediary, the Israeli Foreign Ministry has entered into a unique partnership with the Montenegrin NGO Dukley European Arts Community (DEAC).

The Israelis and the Montenegrins have been building ties for the last few months.

In June, a reception was held in Jerusalem celebrating the 10th anniversary of Montenegrin independence.

Over the summer, direct flights shuttling Israeli tourists to the Adriatic Riviera made for a successful tourist season. Alan, always keen to help advance Israeli culture, got involved to further these budding ties.

We gathered in the historic Jugooceanija Building in Kotor with over 1,000 dignitaries on June 15 to welcome two award-winning Israeli artists, Shirley Siegel and Shuruq Egbariah.

One Jewish and one Arab, these two “citizen ambassadors” were tasked by the Israeli government with the same unique mission – demonstrating the power of art to bring people and cultures together. The night marked the first time in history that Israeli food was served in Montenegro. We were warmed by the rapidly deepening ties between the two nations.

Before ministers, ambassadors, civic, religious and business leaders, Neil Emilfarb, founder of the Dukley European Arts Community, opened the reception, saying, “Art is the

universal language and it plays a unique role in bringing peoples and cultures together. Montenegro is a short flight from Israel and has never had an incident of anti-Semitism.”

Emilfarb was one of the first Jewish emigres from the USSR to New England, leaving Tashkent, USSR, in 1979 to settle in Hartford.

Having lived the American dream, he has spent the last eight years splitting his time between New England and Montenegro. In Budva, Montenegro, Neil has been active in the tourism industry constructing multi-million euro seaside resorts. Rising to be the largest American investor in the region, he has been the leading advocate of Montenegrin NATO integration.

In October 2014, for example, he coordinated with the US Embassy to host Sen. Chris Murphy for highlevel discussions centered on NATO enlargement and the power of commercial diplomacy.

In less than two years, the Dukley European Arts Community (DEAC) has begun to positively transform the cultural infrastructure of Montenegro. Utilizing

artists from across Europe, DEAC has enhanced Montenegrin theaters, universities, galleries and municipalities. Additionally, DEAC has prolonged the tourism season – critical for the Montenegrin economy – with innovative cultural programming and arts festivals in the spring and autumn. Gallery and studio space for visiting international artists comprise the heart of DEAC and are located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor.

DEAC was launched by Emilfarb as a way for his company, Stratex Group, to give back to the people of Montenegro and to push the limits of 21st Century cultural diplomacy.

Similar to Montenegro, Israel is blessed with incredible natural beauty and has always been situated at the crossroads of cultures and civilizations. It is from this diversity and this history that these artists will find their muse. Through innovative cultural diplomacy over an intense two-week residency, these dynamic artists aim to bring the people of Montenegro and Israel closer together.

Above, Alan and Ari Mittleman meet Israeli artists Shirley Siegel and Shuruq Egbariah. Below, Shirley Siegel gives a presentation.

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From Prague to London to Allentown: The ties that bind

By Michele Salomon Special to HAKOL Tradition ... tradition! It’s what connects our past, present and future. Tradition is one of the cornerstones of Jewish life, our customs, values and way of life passed down from generation to generation and the Torah is one the primary messengers. It’s the very reason we do the things we do – celebrate holidays, teach our children our history, join synagogues, JCCs and other institutions of Jewish life. At a recent Keneseth Israel board meeting the importance of

tradition was affirmed with trustees, lay leaders, clergy and staff speaking passionately of their desire to teach our children, and give back to and strengthen the Jewish community as reasons for why they serve and lead the congregation.

It is these values of continuity, resilience and hope that led the Prague Jewish community during the Holocaust to devise a plan to save Torah scrolls and other Jewish artifacts. The Memorial Scrolls Trust, which began in February 1964, brought nearly 1,600 Torah scrolls to

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Westminster Synagogue in London. There, they were lovingly restored and distributed all over the world. These rescued Torah scrolls can be found in South Africa, Britain and New Zealand. They are at Windsor Castle, the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., Yad Vashem in Jerusalem and the US Naval Academy in Maryland.

And, they can be found in more than 1,000 synagogues around the world including two right here in the Lehigh Valley, Temple Beth El and Congregation Keneseth Israel.

This is their story.

Through the ongoing existence and use of these Torahs, the Memorial Scrolls Trust project has three goals: remembering European Jewish life before the Holocaust as well as its tragic destruction, challenging those who interact with the scrolls to confront prejudice and hatred and inspiring them to action by committing to their Jewish lives and working to build bridges across communities.

Beth El’s Torah originates in Kolin, a city in Central Bohemia that was second in importance only to Prague.

Town records date Jewish

residents to the year 1376. A synagogue with an ark was dedicated in 1696 and Kolin become known for its Yeshivah. Beth El’s application to the Memorial Scrolls Trust was sponsored by Dr. Howard and Sherree Listwa. In 1987 Beth El received, on permanent loan, Torah #59, written in 1820.

Scroll #1354, given to KI, was last used in 1940 in a temple in the city of Sedlcany, just south of Prague. KI’s Memorial Torah was dedicated in March 1988, sponsored by Abraham and Nancy Ross, in honor of their son David’s Bar Mitzvah, one of thousands of bar mitzvahs in which memorial scrolls have been used since the inception of the project.

The Ross family are Holocaust survivors and as stated

by Abraham in The Morning Call at the time of the dedication of the Torah at KI, “Nancy and I thought that we could give David, a third-generation Holocaust survivor, no greater honor than to help obtain one of these Holocaust Torahs in recognition of his bar mitzvah.” He added, “This Torah stands proudly as a living memorial to the six million who perished needlessly. It PAID POLITICAL ADVERTISING

will remind us that we must never forget.”

Both KI and TBE regularly use the Memorial Torahs, sharing the Torahs with congregants during High Holiday services and for Yom HaShoah, providing that one-on-one relationship with the Torah that Judaism provides. This personal connection helps us maintain our commitment to Judaism and the Jewish people and inspires us to carry on our traditions. Elaine Rappaport-Bass, an active member and regular attendee at both temples, speaks of touching the rescued Torah with her tallit: “It’s an overwhelmingly joyous and thankful feeling to have the privilege to touch this Torah with my tallit,” she said. “The Torah is a tangible sign of the beauty of Judaism, of our faith and people and the ability to touch it makes me feel that I am part of the survival of Judaism, now and for generations to come.”

Rappaport-Bass’s feelings of joy, thankfulness and awe were summed up in this way

by Abe Ross, in 1988: “This Torah does not belong to any individual or congregation. It belongs to the Jewish people.

That’s the most significant thing about it.”

By Monica Friess Special to HAKOL

PJ Library Family of the Month:

THE GOLDINGS

Planning our trip to Israel this past summer included a visit to our at-home library to look at our PJ Library books about Israel.

What great joy when we arrived to the first railroad created in the Middle East, completed in 1892, located in Jaffa and Jackson proclaimed, “This is where the story of ‘Engineer Ari and the Rosh Hashanah Ride’ takes place!”

As we blew the first shofar announcing the Hebrew month of Elul, I once again returned to our PJ library collection to find books on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot.

It is not just the big white and blue envelope that excites us when it arrives in the mail, it is the opportunity to sit down together to learn a new story, to connect us even deeper to our Jewish roots. I also find us referencing characters and stories from our PJ Library books all the time. Most recently, we sat down to Shabbat dinner and someone asked us what ingredients are in the challah – we all smiled.

I watched proudly as my children answered the question, as they giggled over the PJ Library story called “This is the Challah” and the great big mess they make when baking challah.

Thank you PJ Library and our Jewish community for supporting the gift of Jewish literature and learning for our children.

To learn more about PJ Library and register to receive free Jewish-themed books for children from 6 months through 8 years, visit www.pjlibrary.org.

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It’s estimated that the Jewish population of Humenne, a region in what is now Slovakia, was 2,300 in 1941. During the Holocaust over 90 percent of those Jews were killed. There were only six children among the survivors. Two of them live in the Lehigh Valley.

“Hello, Eva? This is the other Eva” began a conversation that would reveal a shared past and forge a solid friendship. Eva Derby and her husband Albert were living in Missouri and deciding whether to retire in Allentown, where Albert’s brother resides, or Israel, where one of their three children lives. She called Sons of Israel looking for information on the Jewish community and Rabbi Wilensky put her in touch with Eva Levitt, a longtime resident and active community member.

In that first conversation, they learned that they were born in the same hospital within months of each other. Each had survived with their mothers by posing as Christians, and they even have a family connection through marriage.

In 1942, Derby’s mother was able to obtain false papers from a local priest certifying that she had converted to Christianity before the war and that her daughter Eva was baptized. A law deemed that pre-war converts could keep

their family with them, so Derby and her mother lived with her maternal grandparents while her mother worked as a domestic. Derby’s father had been deported to Auschwitz a short time before she was born.

In 1944 the same priest who provided them with papers turned them in to the Germans, and Derby, her mother and grandparents were deported to Auschwitz. Upon arrival a German officer took her mom off the line of “converts” saying his wife needed a maid and his threeyear-old daughter needed a playmate; thus they were able to survive the war. In 1945, after the officer fled his home, Derby and her mother made their way back to Humenne to search for and await any surviving family members. None returned. In time, it was arranged for Derby’s mother to marry an elderly widower known to the family who lived in the United States. In 1948 Derby and her mother came to live in New York.

Eva Levitt’s father, who owned and operated a lumber business, was deferred from deportation because his labor was needed for the war effort. During this time he asked a school friend of Eva’s mother – Geza Haytas – for help in acquiring false papers, which the Haytas family (with whom the Levitts maintained contact throughout the years) did. Geza also found a small room where they could live, telling people that Eva’s mother was his cousin and her husband was in the army. She, like Derby’s mom, worked as a domestic. Though Levitt’s father also had false papers, he knew they wouldn’t prove useful if he were forced to show he was not circumcised.

Not wanting to risk revealing the identities of his wife and daughter, he did not carry them. When his service at the lumber yard was no longer needed he was deported to Auschwitz.

After the war, Levitt and her mother returned to Humenne to await, as Derby did, the return of any family members. One day her dad – hardly recognizable at 78 pounds and recently recovered from typhus – stepped off the train. On another day her maternal grandmother returned.

In 1949 Levitt and her parents secured sponsorship from relatives living in New York. A year later they were able to bring over Levitt’s grandmother.

Levitt and Derby, who each have three children and six grandchildren, marvel over the similarities in their stories and their finding one another this way, but say there are no coincidences. Using the Yiddish word signifying fate, destiny or a fortuitous match, each say it was bashert that they are together. Again.

e.

Two Evas share much more than a name

Painting opened up a new world for me.

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HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 19 PMS 118

PMS 119

PMS 3435

Kindergarteners create cards for Yoav The kindergarten class at the JCC of the Lehigh Valley shows off cards for kindergarteners in Yoav, Israel. The classes are pairing up as part of the Partnership2Gether program of the Jewish Federation. The Lehigh Valley class is looking forward to getting their cards from Yoav in return!

Fall Apple Dessert Cobbler

BY SANDI TEPLITZ INGREDIENTS: 7 medium sized McIntosh apples, peeled cored and sliced 1/4 in. thick 2 c. cubes of bread from a French baguette, 1" in diameter 1/2 c. gold raisins, 1/2 c. dark raisins, mixed together 1 stick melted unsalted butter 1/2 c. apple cider 1/2 c. dark brown sugar, packed into the cup grated zest and juice of 1 small lemon 1 pint Haagen Dazs vanilla ice cream, defrosted in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Add 1 T. dark rum 1/2 t. each: ground cardamom, cinnamon, and sea salt 1/4 t. mace Technique: Set oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9" square Pyrex pan. Mix apples with raisins in a bowl. Mix cider and lemon with spices; pour over apple mixture and mix together lightly with a large spoon. Toss the bread cubes with the butter and brown sugar. Alternate the bread and fruit mixture 3 X in the pan, beginning with the bread, and ending with the fruit. Cover with foil and bake for 1/2 hour. Uncover and bake for another 1/2 hour. Cool 1/2 hour, then immediately serve with the melted ice cream.

This should be served the same day.

Ignite a love of learning that will last a lifetime

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW A MORAVIAN ACADEMY EDUCATION CAN BENEFIT YOUR CHILD

MORAVIAN ACADEMY

B E T H L E H E M , PA | P R I M E R T H R O U G H G R A D E 12

PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY 610-691-1600 W W W. M O R AV I A N A C A D E M Y. O R G HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 21

Community Calendar To list an event in the Community Calendar, submit your information on our website, www.jewishlehighvalley.org, under the “Upcoming Events” menu.

All events listed in the Community Calendar are open to the public and free of charge, unless otherwise noted. Programs listed in HAKOL are provided as a service to the community. They do not necessarily reflect the endorsement of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. The JFLV reserves the right to accept, reject or modify listings.

THROUGH NOVEMBER 4 Organic Expressions Gallery at the J, JCC of the Lehigh Valley. The Gallery at the J presents “Organic Expressions” through Nov. 4 featuring the works of internationally acclaimed painter Hong Foo and ceramist Robert Jenkinson. All displayed art is available for purchase.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Shalom Lehigh Valley Release Party 5:30 p.m., The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar, 645 W. Hamilton St., Allentown. Join the Jewish Federation and The Morning Call to celebrate the release of Shalom Lehigh Valley in Indulge! The brand new edition of Shalom magazine will be your guide to the dynamic, warm and welcoming Jewish community in Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton.

Complimentary appetizers and cash bar. Parking passes available for the PPL parking lot at 7th and Linden. RSVP required to stephanie@jflv.org.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Screening of ‘Of Many’ 7:30 p.m., Lehigh University, Zoellner Arts Center.

Enjoy a free screening of the short documentary film “Of Many” about the interfaith friendship and cooperation between the rabbi and imam at NYU, against the backdrop of 9/11 and the Arab-Israeli conflict. Rabbi Sarna and Imam Latif will be our guests for a talk-back and Q&A after the film. This is a non-ticketed event. Free parking in Zoellner garage. RSVP to incha@lehigh.edu, 610-7583877. Sponsored by the Chaplain’s Office, Dialogue Center, Hillel, Muslim Student Association, Berman Center for Jewish Studies, Religion Studies, Office of Student Affairs and the Office of International Affairs at Lehigh University.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 Jewish Federation Major Donor Reception 6 p.m., private residence. Rabbi Joel Seltzer, executive director of Camp Ramah in the Poconos, will tackle the topic of “Making Jews in 21st Century America” at the Federation’s annual major donor reception. Attendance requires a $5,000 minimum family commitment to the 2017 Campaign for Jewish Needs. Adult children of major donors are encouraged to attend. Dietary laws observed.

Please RSVP to 610-821-5500 or jeri@jflv.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 Maimonides Society Bagel Brunch: Genetic Screenings 10:15 to 11:45 a.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley. With Karen Arnovitz Grinzaid, MS, LCGC, CCRC, senior director of JScreen and instructor at the Emory University School of Medicine. Free for Maimonides members and spouses, $10 for community members. RSVP to 610-821-5500 or mailbox@jflv.org.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 Alive in the Depths: Transgender Identity and Religious Traditions 7 to 8 p.m., Lehigh University, Williams Hall, 31 Williams Dr., Bethlehem. Joy Ladin is often asked how she reconciles being religious with being transgender. In this talk, she will explain how her childhood experience of hiding both her trans identity and her relationship with God has led her to see transgender experience as enriching rather than challenging, opposing or “queering” religious tradition, a perspective she will illustrate by reading the story of Jonah (a man who preferred to die than live as who he was) from a trans perspective. Building on the work of feminist theologians, she will argue that expanding our understanding of humanity to be more gender-inclusive enables us to expand our understanding of God. Sponsored by the Philip and Muriel Berman Center for Jewish Studies and the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies 22 OCTOBER 2016 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Program at Lehigh University. Dessert reception to follow. Metered parking available along W. Packer Avenue. Free and open to the public.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20 KI Sisterhood Paid Up Event 6 p.m. Congregation Keneseth Israel. The Sisterhood of Congregation Keneseth Israel will be holding the 2016-17 annual Paid Up Sisterhood Event under the sukkah. Not a member yet? Pay at the door! Community members are welcome!

Free for KI Sisterhood members; $36 community members. RSVP to tracysussman@gmail.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23 PJ Library Coats & Cocoa for Sukkot 2 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley. Join PJ Library to celebrate Sukkot! Decorate mugs for Jewish Family Service Community Food Pantry clients, build a graham cracker sukkah, hear Sukkot stories and enjoy hot chocolate and snacks. The event is the culmination of a Coats & Cocoa Drive of the Jewish Federation’s Young Adult Division. Please bring a new or gently used children’s coat (infant - age 16) and a box of cocoa mix as your entrance to the event.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 Fall Crafts at the J 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley. Join other adults for a fun, creative, hands-on project.

Classes taught by Barbara Butz. Last Tuesday of the month. $10 per class. To register, visit the JCC Welcome Desk, call 610-435-3571 or visit the JCC online at www.lvjcc.org.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26 ‘Say No to Dieting’ with Dr. Melissa Hakim 7 to 8 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley One-hour wellness workshop, part of a fall series at the J. Future programs are “Sitting is the New Smoking” on Nov. 22 and “Cooking as a Tool for Healthy Living” on Dec. 14. Individual workshop price: $15; two workshops: $27; three workshops: $38. Questions? Contact Amy Sams, asams@ lvjcc.org. To register, visit the JCC Welcome Desk, call 610-435-3571 or visit online at www.lvjcc.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Asian Buffet Shabbat Dinner 6 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom. Join us at Congregation Brith Sholom for a Shabbat dinner and Friday night services. All are welcome to enjoy a menu filled with a wonderful variety of Asian flavors. Make your reservations by 12 p.m. on Oct. 30. Reservations are required. The price is $15 per adult or become a patron for $20; $5 per child between the ages of 5 - 13; no charge for children under 5 with maximum family charge of $45.

Please pay in advance. Make out checks to “CBS - Shabbat Dinners.” Call Tammy at 610-866-8009 for reservations and more information. For those that need transportation, please contact Tammy.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Paint and Create Party 6:30 to 9 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley. Join other adults for a fun, social evening paint party.

Class includes all you need to create a 12x16 masterpiece. No experience needed. Wine and hearty snacks will be served. Class is taught by Kristina Cole, owner of Paint of Mind LLC. Limited to the first 30 registered. Price: $38, JCC member value price: $32. Questions? asams@lvjcc.org. To register, visit the JCC Welcome Desk, call 610-4353571 or visit the JCC online at lvjcc.org THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Gallery at the J Opening Reception 6:30 to 8 p.m., Gallery at the J, JCC of the Lehigh Valley. Opening reception for the exhibit featuring the paintings and drawings of David Sommers and the works of ceramist Corianne Thompson. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and live music by “Just So.” All displayed art is available for purchase.

Exhibit runs through Dec. 23.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Veterans Day KIddish and KIbbitz and Congregational Choir 6:30 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel. Enjoy socializing before services at KIddish and KIbbitz followed by services featuring the Congregational Choir and musical selections and readings in honor of Veterans Day.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Dinner and a Movie 5 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom. Please join us for a 1890s dinner setting the stage for the big screen showing of “Hester Street.” Our resident film maven, Barbara Platt, returns to bring greater light to the relevance of the movie. $20 per person. Bring family and friends. Contact Tammy@ brithsholom.net for more information.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Jewish Family Service Presents 8ish Over 80 10:30 a.m., Temple Beth El. Join us for an elegant champagne brunch to honor role models, 80 years and over, who have dedicated their time, talents and hearts to our Jewish community. Sponsorship opportunities available. Proceeds benefit Older Adult Services. To learn more, call 610-8218722 or visit www.jfslv.org/8ishOver80.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Certainty vs. Uncertainty: 2016 Election Forum 7:30 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom. Congregation Brith Sholom’s Adult Education Committee and the JFLV Community Relations Council are pleased to host a conversation on the upcoming elections with Dr. Chris Borick, director of the Institute of Public Opinion at Muhlenberg College, and Dr. Gordon Goldberg, professor emeritus of history at Kutztown University. Free and open to the community.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 TSS Lecture Series 7 to 9 p.m., location TBD. Havdalah and dessert reception. The community is invited to attend to hear Rabbi Beifield discuss important topics of the day.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3 History in the Offing: The 2016 Election by the Numbers 7 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel. Exciting presentation by Muhlenberg professor Chris Borick about politics and polling.

FRIDAYS 8 - 9:30 AM WMUH 91.7 Featuring Cantor Wartell muhlenberg.edu/wmuh

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Fall Crafts at the J 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley. Join other adults for a fun, creative, hands-on project.

Classes taught by Barbara Butz. Last Tuesday of the month. $10 per class. To register, visit the JCC Welcome Desk, call 610-435-3571 or visit the JCC online at www.lvjcc.org.

Celebrate the beauty of Shabbat

Shabbat & Yom Tov Candlelighting Times Friday, Oct. 7

6:14 pm

Friday, Oct. 28

5:44 pm

Friday, Oct. 14

6:03 pm

Friday, Nov. 4

5:35 pm

Friday, Oct. 21

5:53 pm

Friday, Nov. 11

4:28 pm

Ongoing Events SUNDAY to FRIDAY DAF YOMI 7:30 a.m., Congregation Sons of Israel Meeting all year long, this class covers the gamut of Talmudic law, studying one page of the Talmud each day, and completing the Talmud over the course of seven and a half years. Basic Jewish background is recommended.

SUNDAYS JEWISH WAR VETERANS POST 239 2nd Sunday of the month, 10 a.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley Veterans and their significant others are invited as the guest of the Ladies Auxiliary. Come and enjoy comradeship; we’ll even listen to your “war stories.” A brunch follows each meeting. Questions? Contact Commander Sheila Berg at 610360-1267 or sh-berg1@hotmail.com.

TEFILLIN CLUB & ADULT HEBREW SCHOOL 9:30 a.m. Tefillin; 10 to 11 a.m.

Adult Hebrew, Chabad Tefillin is for Jewish men and boys over the age of bar mitzvah, to learn about, and gain appreciation for, the rich and enriching Jewish practice – the mitzvah – of donning tefillin. Contact 610-3516511.

TALMUD CLASS FOR BEGINNERS! 10 to 11 a.m., Congregation Beth Avraham of Bethlehem-Easton For information,contact Rabbi Yitzchok I. Yagod at 610-905-2166.

MONDAYS FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley Friendship Circle is a place for people to meet, make new friends and enjoy each other’s company. We welcome all adults over 50. Annual dues $25; paid up members are treated to two major programs with a catered luncheon.

Regular weekly meetings and lunch – $6.

First visit – NO CHARGE. Weather permitting. Contact Betty at 610-395-6282 for reservations.

TUESDAYS TORAH STUDY 12 p.m., at the home of Cindy Daniels, 3630 Corriere Rd., Apt. 100, Easton Join Rabbi Melody of TCP to delve into the heart and soul of the Torah and how it applies to your life! No knowledge of Hebrew is necessary, nor is registration.

Contact 610-253-2031 for information.

PIRKEI AVOT (THE ETHICS OF THE FATHERS) 1:15 p.m., at the home of Cindy Daniels, 3630 Corriere Rd., Apt. 100, Easton Join Rabbi Melody of TCP for this wonderful new class. All welcome! Contact 610-253-2031 for information.

YACHAD TORAH STUDY GROUP 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley Bring your curiosity to the Yachad Torah study group and discover the wonders, adventures and meaning of the Torah.

Moderated by Rabbi Yehoshua Mizrachi.

Held in the Teachers’ Learning Center/ Holocaust Resource Room (lower level, JCC). Call 610-435-3571 for information.

YIDDISH CLUB 2 to 3:30 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley Experience the joys of Yiddish. The group meets weekly to discuss topics like cooking, politics, humor, music and all kinds of entertainment in the Yiddish language. All are welcome to join this lively, weekly discussion. There is something for everyone no matter if you know a few words, or are a fluent speaker. Enjoy fun, fellowship, stories and more. Coffee and cookies served. Tuesdays through Dec. 27. No meeting Oct. 4. Questions? Contact Amy Sams at asams@lvjcc.org. New members welcome. Walk-ins welcome.

100,000 MILES/YR FOR KOSHER! First Tuesday of the month,

7 p.m., Congregation Beth Avraham Open to all. Fascinating vignettes from a mashgiach who drives approximately 100,000 miles/year (yes, per year!) to keep the kosher supply chain intact. From rural Arkansas to frigid Nova Scotia, winter and summer, the demands are always there. Contact Rabbi Yitzchok I. Yagod, Kashruth Hotline (24/6), 610-905-2166, rabbiyagod1@gmail.com.

“CHOVOT HALEVAVOT: NURTURING THE INNER FEELINGS OF A JEW” 8:45 p.m., Congregation Sons of Israel For both men and women and no prior knowledge of Jewish texts is necessary.

The class will be studying the classic work of Rabbi Bachya Ibn Pekudah of 11th century Spain which will focus on cultivating the thoughts and emotions of self-reflection, trust, belief, humility, devotion and love.

LATTE & LEARN 8 to 9 p.m., Starbucks, Schoenersville Road, Bethlehem Grab your favorite Starbucks quaff and jump right in as we relate the weekly Torah portion to world events, western civilization and even our own relationships. No Hebrew is required. Contact Rabbi Mizrachi 207-404-0474; opshiloh@ gmail.com; www.torahovereasy.blogspot. com.

WEDNESDAYS 101 JUDAISM CLASS 10 a.m., Temple Covenant of Peace Join Rabbi Melody for the 101 Judaism Class. All welcome! Contact 610-2532031 for information.

JEWISH-FOCUSED AGING MASTERY PROGRAM® (J-AMP) Nov. 9 to Feb. 1, 10 to 11:30 a.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley J-AMP is a 12-week program designed to support baby boomers and older adults, in making the most of their gift of longevity. The program includes expert speakers, group discussion and various levels of mastery aimed at improving the aging process. $99 for the series. Questions? Contact Amy Sams at asams@ lvjcc.org. All materials included. All adults welcome. Advance registration required.

To register, visit the JCC Welcome Desk, call 610-435-3571 or visit www.lvjcc.org.

GAMES FOR ADULTS AT THE J 1 to 3:30 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley Join other adults for your choice of game such as mahjong, canasta, checkers and more. Gather your friends and make new ones in the TV Lounge. Visit the JCC Welcome Desk or call 610-435-3571 to learn more.

HADASSAH STUDY GROUP Every other Wednesday, 1:30 p.m., Temple Beth El Allentown Hadassah presents a stimulating series of short story seminars. All are welcome to attend these free sessions in the Temple Beth El library. The group will be reading selections from anthologies available from Amazon.com. For dates and stories, e-mail Lolly Siegel at spscomm@aol.com or call 610-439-1851.

BETH AVRAHAM TORAH STUDY 7 p.m., Congregation Beth Avraham Torah: It is the common heritage that binds all Jews together. Explore the ancient wisdom of Torah together. All are welcome.

RSVP: Rabbi Yitzchok I. Yagod, 610-9052166, rabbiyagod1@gmail.com.

HUSBANDS ANONYMOUS First Wednesday of the month, 7:30 p.m., location upon signup Calling all wives! Send your husbands to this class! Rabbi WIlensky guides us on how to become more attentive, caring, sensitive partners, and how to strengthen and deepen our spousal relationships in the context of Torah. Contact Sons of Israel for exact dates and locations.

TORAH STUDIES: A WEEKLY JOURNEY INTO THE SOUL OF TORAH 7:30 p.m., Chabad of the Lehigh Valley

Torah Studies by JLI presents: Season Four: A 12-part series. Cost is $36 for the complete series (textbook included). For more information contact 610-351-6511 or Rabbi@chabadlehighvalley.com.

ORTHODOX JEWISH LIVING: WHAT IS IT & HOW? 8 p.m. Contact Rabbi Yizchok I. Yagod, 610-905-2166 or rabbiyagod1@gmail. com.

THURSDAYS CHRONIC CONDITIONS GROUP 2nd Thursday of the month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Jewish Family Service The group is open to anyone that is coping with living with a chronic condition and looking for others to share life issues and garner support. Co-led by Susan SklaroffVanHook and Rebecca Axelrod-Cooper.

Call 610-821-8722 to learn more. There is no charge for the group.

CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER: THE MAKING OF A MENSCH 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel Join a welcoming group of KI members and their friends to discuss a variety of topics relevant to the Jewish lives we have – or want to have. No prerequisites except an open mind and a willingness to listen to each other. For more information or to get on the email list, contact shari@kilv.org or call 610-435-9074.

TORAH ON TILGHMAN 12:15 p.m., Allentown Wegmans Cantor Ellen Sussman of Temple Shirat Shalom leads a lunch and learn on the Torah. RSVP to contactus@templeshiratshalom.com or 610-820-7666.

EVERYTHING YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT JUDAISM BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK! 5 p.m., Temple Covenant of Peace This class is one which a person may drop in when one can. Available via Skype. If you are interested, please send rabbi a Skype invitation at Rebmelody.

CBS CONFIRMATION PROGRAM Twice monthly 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom THIS IS NOT RELIGIOUS SCHOOL! Open only to 8th - 12th Graders. Come and enjoy snacks, dinner, some Jewish learning, discussions, field trips and creative projects with your friends and Rabbi Singer. This year we will explore the theme of “Food Glorious Food.” Study Program: This year we will be cooking and eating together while learning about how food is at the heart of Jewish living, values and culture. To learn more, contact tammy@ brithsholom.net.

SHABBAT BEGINNER’S GEMARA 8 a.m., Congregation Sons of Israel Facilitated by Dr. Henry Grossbard, this is an excellent primer for developing the analytical tools necessary for in-depth study of the Talmud.

CHAVURAT TORAH STUDY Each Shabbat following kiddush lunch, Temple Beth El No sign-up needed for this class. Taught by Shari Spark. Enrich your Shabbat experience by studying the weekly Torah portion, with other congregants, each Shabbat in the library at approximately 12:45 p.m. No previous knowledge or long-term commitments are required.

ISSUES IN CONTEMPORARY HALACHAH 12 p.m., Congregation Sons of Israel Join Rabbi Wilensky as he takes Halachah from the weekly Torah portion and brings it to bear on some of the most pressing issues of our time.

BNEI AKIVA 5:45 p.m., Congregation Sons of Israel An Israel-centered fun program for kids ages eight to 14. This program is free and open to the public. For information and to RSVP, call 610-433-6089.

Congregations BNAI ABRAHAM SYNAGOGUE 1545 Bushkill St., Easton – 610.258.5343 Conservative MORNING MINYAN services are Thursday mornings at 7:25 a.m., SHABBAT EVENING services are Fridays at 8 p.m., SHABBAT MORNING services are Saturdays at 9:30 a.m., RELIGIOUS SCHOOL classes are Wednesdays at 4:15 p.m. and Sundays at 9:30 a.m.

CHABAD OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY 4457 Crackersport Rd., Allentown – 610.336.6603 Rabbi Yaacov Halperin, Chabad Lubavitch SHABBAT EVENING services are held once a month seasonally, SHABBAT MORNING services are held Saturdays at 10 a.m., RELIGIOUS SCHOOL classes are held Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. and Sundays at 10 a.m.

CONGREGATION AM HASKALAH 1190 W. Macada Rd., Bethlehem – 610.435.3775 Student Rabbi Janine Jankovitz, Reconstructionist Weekly Shabbat services and a monthly family service with potluck dinner. Religious school meets Sunday mornings. Email am.haskalah.office@gmail.com to learn more.

CONGREGATION BETH AVRAHAM 439 South Nulton Ave., Palmer Township – 610.905.2166 | Rabbi Yitzchok Yagod, Orthodox SHABBAT EVENING starts half an hour after candle lighting. SHABBAT MORNING starts at 9:30 a.m., followed by a hot kiddish.

CONGREGATION BRITH SHOLOM 1190 W. Macada Rd., Bethlehem – 610.866.8009 Rabbi Michael Singer, Conservative MINYAN is at 7:45 a.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. on Saturdays and holidays. RELIGIOUS SCHOOL classes every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. at Brith Sholom and Sundays at 9:30 a.m. at Bnai Abraham Synagogue.

CONGREGATION KENESETH ISRAEL 2227 Chew St., Allentown – 610.435.9074 Rabbi Seth D. Phillips, Reform Services begin at 7:30 p.m. every Friday night.

The first Friday of the month is a FAMILY SERVICE and celebration of birthdays and anniversaries.

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL classes are held Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and Sundays at 9:30 a.m.

CONGREGATION SONS OF ISRAEL 2715 Tilghman St., Allentown – 610.433.6089 Rabbi David Wilensky, Orthodox SHACHARIT: Sundays at 8:30 a.m., Mondays and Thursdays at 6:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:45 a.m. MINCHAH/MAARIV: 20 minutes before sunset. FRIDAY EVENING: 20 minutes before sunset, 7 p.m. in the summer. SHABBAT MORNING: 9 a.m. SHABBAT AFTERNOON: 90 minutes before dark.

TEMPLE BETH EL 1305 Springhouse Rd., Allentown – 610.435.3521 Rabbi Moshe Re’em | Cantor Kevin Wartell Conservative Weekday morning minyan services at 7:45 a.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m. Shabbat evening services at 7:30 p.m. with the last Friday evening of the month featuring our Shira Chadasha Service.

Shabbat morning services at 9 a.m. followed by Kiddush. Religious school classes every Tuesday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m. Midrasha school classes Monday at 6:30 p.m. Shalshelet meets bi-monthly on Monday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Shalshelet (the chain) is open to ALL 10th-, 11th- and 12th-grade students in the Lehigh Valley. For more, contact Alicia Zahn, religlious school director, at bethelallentown.org.

TEMPLE COVENANT OF PEACE 1451 Northampton St., Easton – 610.253.2031 Tcp@rcn.com; tcopeace.org Rabbi Melody Davis | Cantor Jill Pakman Reform TCP holds Shabbat evening services every Friday night at 7:30 p.m. and a Renewal Style Shabbat morning service on the 4th Saturday of the month at 10:30 a.m. A family Shabbat service is held on the second Friday night of each month at 6:30 p.m. Religious school meets on Sunday mornings from 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. For more information about our Temple and activities, see our website at www.tcopeace.org or look us up on Facebook.

TEMPLE ISRAEL OF LEHIGHTON 194 Bankway Str. Lehighton – 610-370-9591 Rabbi Rachel Rembrandt, Pluralistic Shabbat evening services are held monthly beginning with potluck at 6:30 p.m. followed by services at 7:30 p.m. All other regular monthly events can be found at templeisraeloflehighton.com.

TEMPLE SHIRAT SHALOM 610.730.6272 Cantor Ellen Sussman Friday night SHABBAT WORSHIP SERVICES held at 7 p.m. at The Swain School, 1100 South 24th St., Allentown. For more information, contact us at templeshiratshalom.org or 610-820-7666.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | OCTOBER 2016 23