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UPCOMING PROGRAMS

   
   
 

The powerful true story of a Holocaust survivor told by her daughter - a tale that reminds us of the resilience of the soul and the ability of the heart to heal.

A Brilliant Life weaves together the past and the present to capture the powerful connection between a mother and child. It is an unforgettable story about fate and chance, love and grief, and the deepest kind of faith.

 

The second book of the Bernice Levinson Jewish Community Book Club will be A Brilliant Life by Rochelle Unreich.

Bill Wallen and Phyllis Port will lead a discussion about the book.

We are also working to have the author join us for discussion.

A Zoom link will be sent prior to Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 7pm

 

"The new novel from the bestselling, National Book Award-winning, Oprah Book Club-picked, Barack Obama favourite James McBride.

In 1972, when workers in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, were digging the foundations for a new development, the last thing they expected to find was a skeleton at the bottom of a well. Who the skeleton was and how it got there were two of the long-held secrets kept by the residents of Chicken Hill, the dilapidated neighbourhood where immigrant Jews and African Americans lived side by side and shared ambitions and sorrows.

As these characters' stories overlap and deepen, it becomes clear how much the people who live on the margins struggle and what they must do to survive. When the truth is finally revealed about what happened on Chicken Hill and the part the town's white establishment played in it, McBride shows us that even in dark times, it is love and community-heaven and earth-that sustain us." from Good Reads

Our community book club has been rebranded to honor the memory of our beloved Bernice Levinson and will now be known as:

the Bernice Levinson Jewish Community Book Club.

Bernice was a servant, leader and mentor for Federation, the Jewish community, and a life long advocate of education and learning.

After her retirement as the chief executive office of Improved Dwellings of Altoona, she returned to college obtained her degree from Penn State. 

Admired for her drive and determination, Bernice was one of the early women leaders in our community and a true difference maker.  She was the first woman to be honored by B’nai B’rith as Person of the Year as well as a National Association of Human Services Person of the Year.  Bernice was also a founding member of Big Brothers Big Sisters.  More impressive was her manner in making a difference with class, distinction and dignity, and respect for her fellow human beings.  As a vanguard of humanity, Bernice put Jewish values into action.  We honor and remember her commitment to Judaism, community, and humanity, and her memory continues to inspire in our traditions of tzedakah, chesed and tikkun olam.

Our first book will be The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride.

Bill Wallen will lead a discussion about the book.

A Zoom link will be sent prior to Tuesday, January 9, 2024, 7pm

 

 

 

   
 
The 92nd Interfaith Thanksgiving Service sponsored by the Sixth Ward Ministries will be held on Thursday November 16 at 7:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The program will be split into two parts focusing on "tikkun olam" (healing and repair) and "shalom" (peace), and be separated by a sermon from pastor Drew McCaffery who will touch on the Israel situation. 

Afterward we will have refreshments and time to mingle.
 

On Thursday, August 24th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Akron Rubber Ducks, the Cleveland Guardians affiliate, at 6:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $5 for Federation members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 18th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation at PO Box 224, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window at the lower level after 5pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office. After 6pm tickets will be left at the Will Call window.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

 

Annual Veteran's Memorial Service at the Altoona Congregation Cemeteries

Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 7 pm.

Guest Speaker, Altoona Mayor Matt Pacifico

We will meet to remember our community members who served our country with pride and distinction.

We meet yearly to honor our Veterans and read the honor roll of those who have served our country. Please make time to join us and fulfill this mitzvah.

 

“Summer” Film Festival Event at Lakemont Park in the C2 Trolley Pavilion
6pm, Thursday, September 15, 2022

Cost is $10/person and includes dinner and the movie if you RSVP by Monday September 12th
The cost is $15 after Monday

Reservations are required to allow an accurate count for dinner,
but payment can be made on the night of the film, or by check in advance to PO Box 224, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648

PLEASE RSVP to altoonafed@gmail.com and bring a lawn chair!

Our Meal at 6pm catered by Paula and Dave Binus

Wine and Beverages
Appetizers: Cheese Display with Mustards, Crackers and Grapes, Tortilla Roll Dinner: Mixed Green Salad with Assorted Dressings, Brioche Rolls with Butter
Grilled Salmon with Oven Roasted Potatoes and Grilled Vegetables

Dessert: Surprise

Our movie, Sarah's Key, at 7pm with popcorn and soda

The film alternates between a young girl Sarah in 1942 and journalist Julia in 2009 who is researching Sarah's story. It tells the story of a Sarah's experiences during and after the Vel' d'Hiv Roundup  of Jews in German-occupied Paris in 1942 and the participation of bureaucracy  in Vichy France and French citizens hiding and protecting Sarah from the French authorities Vel' d'Hiv Roundup

The C2 Trolley Pavilion is an outdoor facility with a covered roof and picnic tables for our meal, but we recommend you bring a folding chair with a seat back for comfort to view the movie.  The gate off Main Street in Lakemont Park is access to the C2 Trolly Pavilion.  Limited Parking is available next to C2 inside the Park. Unless you have a mobility issue, please park on main street in the Village of Lakemont Park.

For additional questions and concerns, email us at altoonafed@gmail.com

 

On Sunday, August 21st, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Harrisburg Senators, the Washington Nationals affiliate, at 6:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $5 for Federation members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 16th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation at PO Box 224, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window at the lower level after 5pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office. After 6pm tickets will be left at the Will Call window.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

 

Open for Previews June 30

General Admission Tickets Starting July 1

The Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust’s newest exhibition, The Holocaust: What Hate Can Do, is an expansive and timely presentation of Holocaust history told through personal stories, objects, photos, and film – many on view for the first time. The 12,000-square-foot exhibition features over 750 original objects and survivor testimonies from the Museum’s collection. The Holocaust: What Hate Can Do is a representation of this global story through a local lens, rooted in the objects donated by survivors and their families, many of whom settled in New York and nearby places.


 

Please join our community in welcoming Ari Sirner, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Region of the State of Israel Bonds Development Corporation on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at the Park View Condominium terrace, 415 Park View Lane, Altoona, PA (behind Jethro’s) from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM for a light supper.

Ari will share exciting news about the new leadership of the Israel Bonds Organization and discuss how the proceeds from the sale of Israel Bonds plays a decisive role in Israel’s rapid evolution into a ground breaking, global leader in high-tech, green tech, and biotech.

It has been 10 years since our community has sponsored an event for Israel Bonds and we are excited to welcome Ari as we rekindle the flame that bonds us with Israel.

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, June 15th.  Please RSVP to bjohollander@gmail.com or 814-931-0142 by June 12th.

Suggested minimum Israel Bond investment of $36.00 per family.

 

Annual Veteran's Memorial Service at the Altoona Congregation Cemeteries

Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 7 pm.

We will meet to remember our community members who served our country with pride and distinction.

We meet yearly to honor our Veterans and read the honor roll of those who have served our country. Please make time to join us and fulfill this mitzvah.

Click here to read Jared Frederick's insightful and informative remarks at this service.

 

“Spring” Film Festival Event at ArtsAltoona Center
5:30pm, Thursday, April 28, 2022
Cost is $18 for meal and $5 for the movie
PLEASE RSVP to altoonafed@gmail.com by Friday, April 22st

Click here for more details

Meal by Paula and Dave Binus
5:30pm Appetizers: hummus, veggies, cheese and crackers with wine and beverages
6:00pm Dinner: salmon, roasted sweet and regular potatoes, roasted veggies and salad
  Dessert: cheesecake
7:00pm Movie: Greener Pastures

Dov, a widower, is forced by his family to move to a nursing home – and there’s nothing he can do or say about it. He’s broke since he lost his pension savings, and he blames the state for it. The nursing home feels like a prison, and all Dov can think about is getting out of there, buy his old house back and live there ‘till he dies. When he notices that all his fellow residents smoke legal medical cannabis, he realizes that weed will be his salvation – selling it, not smoking it. When love, cops and gangsters come into play, Dov finds himself at a crossroads: Will he risk it all to make his dream come true? - from Israeli Films

For additional questions and concerns, email us at altoonafed@gmail.com

 
Dear friends in faith, from the Sixth Ward, Altoona and Beyond:

I invite all of you to participate in this year's 90th annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service of Altoona on Thursday November 18th (The week before thanksgiving) at 7:00 PM. Originally a project of the ministries of Altoona's Sixth Ward, we have been expanding our reach both physically and spiritually, so that we include many different voices and faith traditions.


The theme of this year's service is "We Are One" - finding unity in community. It is a reflection of the fact that, over the past year and a half, we have recognized how much we need to rely on one another beyond our own neighborhoods and faith communities.


L'shalom, Rabbi Audrey Korotkin
 

 

Special Summer Film Festival

One Night Only

Winter Film Festival on Scheule for Februrary 2022

“Summer” Film Festival Event at Lakemont Park in the C2 Trolley Pavilion
6pm, Thursday, September 23, 2021
Cost is $10 and includes dinner and the movie
PLEASE RSVP to altoonafed@gmail.com by September 16th
and bring a lawn chair!

Our Meal at 6pm catered by Paula and Dave Binus

Wine and Beverages
Appetizers: Bruschetta, Olive Tapenade and Vegetables
Dinner: 4 Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups, Veg. Lasagna, Grilled Vegetables, Salad and Garlic Bread
Dessert: Surprise

Our movie, THE KEEPER, at 7pm with popcorn and soda

“The Keeper tells the extraordinary love story between a young English woman and a German PoW, who together overcome prejudice, public hostility, and personal tragedy. While visiting a PoW camp near Manchester at the end of WWII, Margaret Friar, the daughter of the manager of the local football team, notices young German soldier Bert Trautmann. Her father is so taken by Bert's prowess as a goal-keeper that he gets him out of the camp to play for his local team. Margaret and Bert's love blossoms despite local hostility and resentment of the German PoWs. His signing causes outrage to thousands of Man City fans, many of them Jewish. But Margaret wins support from an unexpected direction: Rabbi Altmann, a Man City supporter who fled the Nazis, who publishes an open letter opposing the campaign against Bert. Loyalties are tested and leads to self-examination in this background of prejudice, public hostility and personal tragedy. ” IMDB

The C2 Trolley Pavilion is an outdoor facility with a covered roof and picnic tables for our meal, but we recommend you bring a folding chair with a seat back for comfort to view the movie.  The gate off Main Street in Lakemont Park is access to the C2 Trolly Pavilion.  Parking is available next to C2 inside the Park. 

For additional questions and concerns, email us at altoonafed@gmail.com

 

On Sunday, August 22nd, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankee affliate, at 6:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz Sky and Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 16th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation at PO Box 224, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window after 5pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

 

 

Click here for a program for this service

Annual Veteran's Memorial Service at the Altoona Congregation Cemeteries

Thursday, May 27, 2021, at 7 pm.

We will meet to remember our community members who served our country with pride and distinction.

We have met yearly to honor our Veterans with the exception of last year due to the pandemic. This year we will meet as a Jewish community and read the honor roll of veterans and honor the memory of Henry Weinberg who was a leading force for this annual ceremony.

Due to the pandemic we will observe CDC recommendations and social distance. We also will forgo the Honor Guard and a guest speaker.

Please plan to attend if you are able and honor our Veterans and Henry's commitment to this program. Volunteers to participate in the program are requested to read prayers and part of the honor roll. Please email the Federation to find out how you can help participate.

 

 

On January 26, 2021, Neil Rudel arranged for his sister Karen to take us on a virtual tour of Jewish Paris, and it was a night to remember.  The feedback about the tour was overwhelmingly positive and as a result the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation is returning to Zoom to bring us back together for another evening of education and fellowship.

Joellyn Zollman has graciously agreed to present:

“From Tevye to Tevye, There’s No One Like Tevye: Jewish History and Memory from Shtetl to Stage”

Jews are the "People of the Book.” The Torah is the foundation “ book” on which we build our identity.  Which modern books shape our sensibilities?  This lecture looks at one such story, “Tevye the Dairyman.”  We’ll follow it’s transformation from page to stage, and explore why this story matters to us as American Jews.

Our program with be held Wednesday, May 19, 2021, at 7pm EST via Zoom.  Please RSVP to the Federation at altoonafed@gmail.com ASAP.

 

Links for Coronavirus Information

Pennsylvania Department of Health

Centers for Disease Control

Passover During Coronavirus, Tips, Options, Thoughts from My Jewish Learning

 

 

 

Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the bus trip to see Fiddler has been cancelled. The Federation office will be in touch with all those who have made arrangements to attend this show.

 

Tentative Itinerary
8 am depart Altoona
11 am arrival Scranton
Lunch on you own
1 pm Showtime
4 pm Show concludes
Snack in Scranton
5:30 pm departure Scranton
8:30 pm arrival Altoona

Opening night at our 21st International Jewish Film Festival was a huge success.  There were universal kudos for last night’s film, Fiddler, A Miracle of Miracles.

As a result of the overwhelming response, I have done a little research and found that the national tour of Fiddler on the Roof will be in Scranton, PA, at the end of April.  This is the closest venue to Altoona and I thought that we should offer a bus trip to the show.  As tickets are in high demand, we will need to act quickly to reserve seats. The 54 tickets available to us are first come, first served.

If you are interested please RSVP by phone 814-515-1182, or email altoonafed@gmail.com to the Federation office by Friday, February 28, 2020, and we will need your non-refundable check or payment by March 6, 2020.

Tentative Schedule:
Fiddler on the Roof
National Traveling Show
Sunday, April 26, 2020
1 pm showtime, 3 hour duration with intermission
Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple, Scranton, Pennsylvania

Tickets
$66 Orchestra Seats, which is a group discounted rate
Federation will pay for bus transportation
54 tickets have been reserved for us on a First Come, First Served Basis
36 person minimum for bus transportation

   

Baker Mansion Holiday Tours

Featuring the Jewish Community's Holocaust Torah

Click here to read about the details

   
   
 

Annual Federation Picnic will be at the NEW Lakemont Park

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Dinner at 5:00pm 

Kosher hot dogs and hamburgers provided.  Please bring a non-dairy dish!

The pavilion has 4 big screen TV’s.  The Steeler game will be on!

Come early – 1:00pm or after.  

Enjoy the Game, BYOB & snacks, explore the park.   We will have corn hole, volleyball, basketball and other games.

The park has golf, batting cages, etc. for which there is a charge.

RSVP to 515-1182 or by email no later than Wednesday, September 11th.

Sponsored by:
     Altoona Jewish community school
     Greater Altoona Jewish federation

 

Wednesday, September 11, 2019, 7:00 pm.

Ebensburg Borough Building, 300 West High Street, Ebensburg, PA

At one time Johnstown was home to as many as five Jewish synagogues. A synagogue was also built in Barnsboro in 1926 and the Jewish community at large was represented ion Gallitzin, Portage, South Fork, Cresson, Ebensburg Nanty Glo, Revloc and Colver. Barry Rudel takes us through this fascinating journey of the Jewish people in this region.

   
   
     
   
     
 

 

   
     
   
 

New traveling exhibit in Johnstown from the US Holocaust Memorial Museum

click here for more information

 

Schindler’s List

Commemorating it’s 25th anniversary

Tuesday, November 27th, 6:30 pm at Penn State Altoona

Room 134 Hawthorne Building

Movie followed by a discussion led by

Dr Steve Andrews, Jared Frederick, and Bill Wallen

  Click here to make a donation online.
   
 

COMMUNITY PICNIC

September 23, 2018

at the home of Andrea and Michael Cohen

Details to come

 

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz Sky and Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 18th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window, lower level, after 5pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office. Look for Bill Wallen.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

 

 

Joint Veteran's Service 7pm, Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Sponsored by

Agudath Achim Congregation

Temple Beth Israel

Greater Altoona Jewish Federation

   
   
   
   
 

On Sunday, August 27th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Bowie Baysox at 6:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz Sky and Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 18th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window, lower level, after 5pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office. Look for Bill Wallen.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

   
 
 

 

April 26, 2017 David Tuck: Holocaust Survivor

April 20, 2017 Liberation and Loss, Jared Frederick speaker. The Holocaust from the view of a local veteran.

The Three Faces of Nazism
Wednesday, Mar 29, 2017
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM EDT

Join Dr. Steven Andrews to learn about the Holocaust from a historical perspective.

Click here for more info.

Peter Stein, Holocaust Survivor speaks at PSU Altoona. Read about Peter's story here.

“Holocaust survivor: Remember the lessons”, Ryan Brown, Altoona Mirror, 3/21/17. Article link from the Altoona Mirror.


 

The Federation in conjunction with Agudath Achim Congregation and Temple Beth Israel will again be providing a "Love Feast" for families in need on Saturday, April 8, 2017, at the Simpson Temple in Altoona and we need your help!

Volunteers needed for food preparation.

RSVP to the Federation by phone at 515-1182 or by email and let us know how you can help this year.

 

Purim Carnival

Sunday, March 12, 2017

10 am

JMC

 

On Sunday, August 28th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Erie at 6:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 18th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window, lower level, after 5pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office. Look for Bill Wallen.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

  Family Friendly Show coming to Cresson Lake Playhouse this July!
 

Click here to read Rabbi Korotkin's remarks from July 19, 2016

“CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME”
All Tuesday evening sessions, hosted by
Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church
309 Lotz Avenue, Lakemont, Altoona, PA 16602

July 12 -7:00 p.m.  “Humanity and Nature: Sacred Text and Tradition”

July 19 -7:00 p.m. “Earth, Air, Fire, and Water: Symbolism and                                             Civilization”

July 26 -7:00 p.m. “Creating Partnerships: Faith, Earth, and Science”

Click here to view the interfaith brochure for program details.

 

P&J Theater Works is presenting the Tony Award Winning Best Musical, SPAMALOT, at the historic Mishler Theatre on June 16-19.

The two central themes of this musical comedy are
King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table in their quest for the Holy Grail and You Won't Succeed On Broadway If We Don't Have Any Jews!

  Service will be held at JMC in case of inclement weather.

Joint Veteran's Service

Sponsored by

Agudath Achim Congregation

Temple Beth Israel

Greater Altoona Jewish Federation

  The Federation's annual meeting is open to all Federation members.
 

Purim Carnival

Sunday, March 20, 2016

10 am

JMC

 

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Altoona is pleased to announce the opening of its latest exhibition, Julie Wohl: Tradition and Inspiration. On view January 22 through May 7 in the Museum’s George A. and Herbert T. Wolf Gallery, the exhibition comprises 44 paintings and mixed media works created over the last decade by Altoona artist Julie Wohl.

The Museum will celebrate the exhibition at a Wicked Wednesday reception on March 16. The program includes light supper and libations as well as a musical performance by The Amigos. Cost is $25 per person. Reservations are required by calling the Museum at (814) 946-4464.

Wohl will speak at a Lunch a l’Art program at the Museum on April 14. Cost for the program, which begins at noon, is $15 or $14 for SAMA members. Please call the Museum for reservations.

Click here for more details.

   
 

On Thursday, November 12th at 7:00PM at St. John the Evangelist Church in Lakemont, the Ecumenical Conference of Greater Altoona is sponsoring an evening program on the topic of the environment, specifically focusing on this encyclical, Laudato Si’. Following the format of last year’ s conference, Bishop Mark Bartchak of the Altoona-Johnstown diocese will give an overview of the papal document, with leaders of various faith communities then giving their responses in light of their own faith traditions.

There will be a question and answer session following, as well as time for fellowship.

The resource for the discussion will be Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’.

 

Renowned American printmaker Leonard Baskin is celebrated in this exhibition of 55 works from SAMA's permanent collection. Baskin helped to revitalize figurative art following the heydey of Abstract Expressionism in the 1950s with art that emphasizes the perennial strength and suffering of mankind.

Due to the Federation's sponsorship of this exhibit, there will be a very special reception for the Jewish community from 6:00 to 8:00pm on October 7, 2016.

Paper and Fire, Prints by Leonard Baskin Exhibit

August 14, 2015 until January 16, 2016

 

On Monday, August 24th, your Federation is planning a Jewish Community Night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Reading Fightin Phils at 7:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and Mickey and Neil Port. The cost will be $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 18th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at PNG Park Will Call window after 6pm on game day unless other arrangements have been made with the Federation office.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

 

Click here to view the Matter of Faith brochure

Click here to read about this program in the Altoona Mirror

 

Service will be held at JMC in case of inclement weather

Joint Veteran's Service

Sponsored by

Agudath Achim Congregation

Temple Beth Israel

Greater Altoona Jewish Federation

Click here to read Illissa Zimmerman's Keynote Address

 

Laugh in Peace Tour

at PSU Altoona

Sponsored by PSU and GAJF

 

 

 

Purim Carnival

Sunday, March 8, 2015

10 am

JMC

 

6th Ward Ministries in conjunction with the Ecumenical Council of Altoona invites you to the 82nd Interfaith Thanksgiving Service.

A Thanksgiving offering of non-perishable foods and monetary gifts will be given to the Altoona Food Bank.

Our service will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 at 7:00 pm at

Simpson-Temple United Parish, 2212 6th Avenue, Altoona, PA

 

On Sunday, August 24th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the New Britain Rock Cats at 6:00pm at PNG Park. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Fireworks are scheduled for after the game.

In addition, the Altoona Symphony Orchestra will be performing on the field before the game at 5:00pm, and your ticket will alow you early access to the concert.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and will cost $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance, by AUGUST 20th, with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup from Bill Wallen at PNG Park at the lower level entrance beginning at 4:30pm, and at the Will Call window after 6pm.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

 

Click here to view the event brochure

Matter of Faith – 2014 Summer Series

Defining the Divine

Who God Is and What God Does

All sessions will be held in the
Saint John the Evangelist Catholic School 311 Lotz Ave. Lakemont, Altoona PA.

Tues., July 8 - 7:00 p.m. The Idea of God
Rabbi Audrey Korotkin, Rev. Marlys Hershberger and Buddhist Michael Allison will set the stage for this series with a panel discussion focusing on the context of scriptures, culture and personal experience that shape our understanding of who God is and what God does.

Tues., July 15 - 7:00 p.m. The Nature of God
Muslim Shamsa Anwar, LDS Bishop James Hite, and United Methodist Pastor Rich Morris will build our understanding of the characteristics of God by sharing from their individual faith traditions.

Tues., July 22 - 7:00 p.m. God’s Engagement in the World
Fr. Anthony Roeber, Msgr. Michael Becker and Bahai Dr. April Neal will focus on the involvement of God in the world from their individual faith traditions.

 

Service will be held at JMC in case of inclement weather

 

Click here to see the trailer.

 

Check WPSU for the complete schedule

or watch online.

 

Simon Schama presents an epic five-part series exploring the extraordinary story of the Jewish experience from ancient times to the present day. Drawing on original scholarship and Schama's own family history, this is a story that is at once deeply historical and utterly contemporary, taking viewers on a journey from the Biblical past to tomorrow's front pages. Traveling the globe from the Middle East to Eastern Europe, from New York and Berlin to Cairo and Jerusalem, the story unfolds with the help of a dazzling cast of historical characters, vivid storytelling, stunning location photography, and encounters with people who live with the passions and perplexities of the Jewish story today. At the heart of The Story of the Jews is a compelling argument about distinctiveness and difference, separation and isolation, tolerance and prejudice, but it is also a celebration of the ways in which Jewish thought, Jewish imagination, and Jewish achievement have transformed the world for us all.

Episodes include...
The Beginning - Simon Schama begins his exploration of the Jewish story at the start, 3,000 years ago.

Among Believers - How medieval Jews struggled to preserve their identity under Christian and Islamic rule.

A Leap of Faith - How the enlightment allowed Jews to integrate into modern European culture and commerce.

Over the Rainbow - How the Jewish people of Eastern Europe made their mark on the modern world.

Return - How the Holocaust and the creation of Israel have changed what it means to be Jewish.

 

SHABBAT TZEDIK - SOCIAL JUSTICE SHABBAT

Friday, January 17, 2014, 7pm Temple Beth Israel

Guest Sermon Reverend Henry Hansard

Temple Beth Israel welcomes the entire community to this service that is held annually to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and to hightlight the Jewish commandments and commitments to social justice. Worship will be followed by a special oneg shabbat, a time for food and fellowship.

 

Join Rabbi Audrey Korotkin as she lights the menorah at UPMC Altoona on Tuesday, December 3rd at 10:30 AM. The community is invited.

 

6th Ward Ministries in conjunction with the Ecumenical Council of Altoona invites you to the 82nd Interfaith Thanksgiving Service.

A Thanksgiving offering of non-perishable foods and monetary gifts will be given to the Altoona Food Bank.

Our service will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2012 at 7:00 pm at

Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, 6th Avenue and 20th Street

 

 

Israel Bonds honors Jakob Golant and Genia Sommer

Sunday, October 27, 2013

The Casino

12:15 pm

 

Federation's Annual Picnic/Wagonride

On Sunday, October 6th the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation

will be sponsoring a Picnic/Wagon ride at Diamond

Carriage Lane just south of Roaring Spring from 4:30 - 7:30pm.

There will be no charge for this event.

 

On Wednesday, August 21st, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Reading Phillies at 7 pm at Blair County Ballpark. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and will cost $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation by August 14th.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup from Bill Wallen at Blair County Ballpark at the lower level entrance beginning at 6:15pm, and at the Will Call window after 7pm.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game

 

Click here to read the details about this intrigiuing summer program.

Matter of Faith - 2013 Summer Series

Brought to you by the Interfaith Committee of the Ecumenical Conference of Greater Altoona.

* All sessions will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Devorris Discovery Center on 12th Ave, Altoona, PA

Feeding the Mind, Body and Spirit: Local Authors Sharing Their Stories

Tues., July 2 - Changing Churches - by Fr. Anthony Roeber

Tues., July 9 - The Trial of Fallen Angels - by Attorney James Kimmel

Tues., July 16 - What the 'Other' Gospels Tell Us about Early Christianity - by Dr. Robert Miller

Tues., July 23 - Real Jewish Men Cook Kosher - by Mr. Don Clippinger

* Each session will include Round Table Discussion, Refreshments and Fellowship following the presentation.
   
 

On Friday and Saturday, June 7-8, 2013, the JMC will be presenting Real Diamond, the premier Neil Diamond Tribute Band, at the Mishler Theater.

Click here to get a sample of the Real Diamond

 

Please join the Jewish Community at the Agudath Achim and Temple Beth Israel cemeteries to honor our Veterans.

Thursday, May 23rd at 7:00 pm.

 

Hitler’s Daughter-Monkey Baa Theatre Company
Sunday, Mar 17 2:00p
Pennsylvania State University: Milton S. Eisenhower Auditorium
State College, PA


Based on a novel by Jackie French and performed by Monkey Baa, a theatre for young people, Hitler’s Daughter tells the story of four children — Mark, Ben, Anna, and Tracey. As the friends wait for the school bus, Anna tells the imagined tale of Heidi, daughter of the most hated man in history. The play switches between Nazi Germany and contemporary Australia as Mark becomes engrossed in the story. Could Heidi have stopped the atrocities of war, genocide, and hate her father waged? Would Mark have acted differently in Heidi’s place? This intriguing play poses powerful questions about a frightening period in history and forces us to examine moral issues in relation to society’s fears and prejudices. Based in Sydney, Australia, Monkey Baa (as in monkey bar pronounced by an Aussie) has achieved critical acclaim and enjoys an international reputation for producing quality theatre programs for young audiences.

Recommended for ages 10 and older. Artistic Viewpoints, not Kids Connections, will be offered before the show.

sponsor
McQuaide Blasko Endowment

 

Purim Carnival

Sunday, March 3, 2013

10 am to 12:30 pm

JMC

 

Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Program

But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream
Amos 5:24
Water: Danger and Hope

Guest Speaker:

Rev. Dr. M. Andrew Murray

Professor Emeritus at Juniata College
One of the world’s fast -drying -up commodities is water. How will we be people of justice in the way we consume water?

ALTOONA AREA JR HIGH AUDITORIUM
1400 7TH AVE
ALTOONA PA 16602
Sponsored by the Altoona Area Christian Coalition and Temple Beth Israel

 

The Jewish Community under the leadership of Temple Beth Israel will again be providing a "Love Feast" for low income individuals and families on Saturday, December 22nd, at 28th Street Church of the Brethren on Union Avenue in Altoona and we need your help!

The Temple will be preparing the main dish in advance. We need you cash contributions and for you to volunteer to help on December 22nd to serve and clean up.

RSVP to the Federation by phone at 515-1182 or by email and let us know how you can help this year.

 

Sam Port, son of Dr. Marty and Barbara Port of Tampa, FL and nephew of Neil and Mickey Port and Stephen and Phyllis Port, will be appearing at the Mishler Theater in Oh What A Night! A Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, on December 6 and 7, 2012 at 7:30 P. M. The show is being produced in Altoona by P&J Productions.

Sam has been performing this show for the past year on Norwegian Cruise Line Ships. Tickets for Oh What A Night cost $22 plus the Mishler Box Office charge and can be purchased at the Mishler Box Office or by calling 814-944-9434.

Direct from Las Vegas, Oh What A Night! is an exciting musical revue written by Motown producer and creative consultant George Solomon and directed by award winning producer/director Michael Chapman. Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry and Walk Like A Man, are just a few of the many hits you'll enjoy from the dynamic songbook of those boys from Jersey.
In 1990 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. To this day their unique and irresistible music continues to thrill all ages. The personable stars of Oh What A Night! stay true to the original recordings without trying to mimic or impersonate the group. Oh What A Night! has been thrilling audiences with great choreography, boundless energy, humor and, of course, instantly recognizable classic pop songs that have become timeless.

 

6th Ward Ministries in conjunction with the Ecumenical Council of Altoona invites you to the 81st Interfaith Thanksgiving Service.

A Thanksgiving offering of non-perishable foods and monetary gifts will be given to the Altoona Food Bank.

Guest Speaker Rev. Funteller Jackson, Associate at Mount Zion Baptist Church

Our service will be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at 7:00 pm at Temple Beth Israel:

3004 Union Avenue, Altoona, Pa 16602

 

Second Annual Shabbaton Planned for November 3

The Center for the Study of Jewish Life in Central Pennsylvania will hold its second annual Shabbaton on Saturday, November 3. The program begins with a Sabbath Service at 10:00 AM at Congregation Agudath Achim, 1009 Washington Street, Huntingdon. Following lunch the program moves to the Leibig Science Center on the campus of Juniata College, 17th and Moore Streets, Huntingdon.

The afternoon program will include a Veterans Day commemoration of Jewish servicemen and women from the Revolutionary War to Iraq, a panel of regional clergy discussing the changing face of religion in central Pennsylvania,  and an update on the project to restore the Barnesboro Synagogue by students from Northern Cambria High School. The Shabbaton concludes with a traditional kosher deli buffet.

There is no charge for the program but reservations are requested. Contact the Center at: aahuntingdon@gmail.com, or (814) 234-7333.

 

Federation Community Picnic

Sommertime Farm

Join us for games, wagon rides and good chow. Hosted by Vicki and Alan Kivitz, we look forward to a tasty spread by Dave and Paula. We will enjoy marshmellow roasting by the bonfire and catch up with old friends and make new friends.

Place: Sommertime Farm, Pavia, PA

Menu: BBQ Chicken, Hot Dogs on the grill, Salads, S'mores

Wagon rides, Pumpkin Carving, Games, Races, Bonfire

and

Musical Entertainment by Pat McGinnis

RSVP to Federation Office

Travel Directions will be sent after receipt of Reservation

 

 

The Johnstown Jewish Counnity Heritage Project

125 Years of Organized Jewish LIfe

Opening Exhibit Reception

Friday, September 28, 2012

Pasquerilla Heritage and Discovery Center

Guest Speaker: Professor and Author Michael Walzer

RSVP top JAHA at 814-539-1889 by September 19th

Schedule:

4:00 Reception, wine, hors d'oeuvres

4:45 - 5:15 Speaker Michael Walzer

5:15 - 6:30 View the Exhibit

7:00 - 8:15 Shabbat service at Beth Shalom with Dr. Walzer as speaker

8:15 Oneg

Click here to read more about the exhibit

Click here to read about Dr. Walzer

 

 

The Ethel LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference

October 21-23, 2012

Greensburg, PA

Click here to download the event brochure

Click here to read more about the Conference

 

On Sunday, August 26th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Richmond Flying Squirrels at 6 pm at Blair County Ballpark. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and will cost $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation by August 20th.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at the Will Call box at Blair County Ballpark.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game

 

Click here for the complete program brochure

Altoona Mirror Profile of Matter of Faith Program

Matter of Faith – 2012 Summer Series
Interfaith Journey: History and Hope
All sessions will be held in the
 Temple Beth Israel Social Hall, 3004 Union Avenue, Altoona PA.
(Parking is available across Union Avenue in the Altoona Bible Church lot.)


Tues., July 17 - 7:00 p.m.  Christian Trio
To set the stage for this series, Monsignor  Michael Becker will present a brief discussion of the Vatican Council (1962-65) which has had a significant impact on faith traditions around the world. Msgr. Becker, Yolanda Avent and Deacon Jack Hoffer will also share personal reflections on their own Interfaith Journey as well as the changing dialogue in their faith tradition.


Tues., July 24 - 7:00 p.m. Jews and Latter Day Saints.
 Rabbi Audrey Korotkin and Jim and Marguerite Hite will share personal reflections on their own Interfaith Journey as well as the changing dialogue in their faith tradition.


Tues., July 31 - 7:00 p.m. Muslims and Buddhists
Shamsa Anwar and Michael Allison will share their personal reflections on their own Interfaith Journey as well as the changing dialogue within their faith tradition.

Each session will include Round Table Discussion
Refreshments and fellowship following the program.

 
 

Please join the Jewish Community at the Agudath Achim and Temple Beth Israel cemeteries to honor our Veterans. We are pleased to have Veteran John Gority as our guest speaker.

Thursday, May 26th at 7:00 pm.

 

Click here to see a video about the museum

Click here to learn about the Museum

Two recent Film Festival movies were based on the American Jewish experience and included items/references found in the National Museum of American Jewish History.

Click here to read Dr. Joellyn Wallen Zollman's introduction of "Jewish Soldiers in Blue and Gray"

and Michael Cohen's introduction of "The Frisco Kid"

 

Michael Oren Bio

With AIPAC's Help Students Invite Oren to their Colleges

Oren Hosts Iftar

 

 

 

Purim Carnival

Sunday, March 4th

10 am to 12:30 pm

JMC

 

Film Festival 2012

Opening Night February 16, 2012

 

The Jewish Community under the leadership of Temple Beth Israel will again be providing a "Love Feast" for low income individuals and families on Saturday, December 24th, at Simpson Church in Altoona and we need your help!

The Temple will be preparing the main dish in advance. We need you cash contributions and for you to volunteer to help on December 24th to serve and clean up.

RSVP to the Federation by phone at 515-1182 or by email and let us know how you can help this year.

 

Friday Night, Nov 18 at TBI

Saturday Morning, Nov 19 at AAC

Sunday, November 20, 2011
at Juniata College

   
 

Judy Meisel survived the concentration camps of World War II at the age of 16. In the 1960's, she became involved with the Civil Rights struggle in the United States, meeting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In 1999, her life's story was told in the documentary film "Tak for Alt". Today, she travels and speaks of her experiences from the Holocaust to today's genocide in Darfur.

Judy will be at the Devorris Downtown Center, 12th Ave and 15th Street, Altoona on Wednesday, November 2nd.

Documentary - Tak for Alt 9:30 - 10:30 am

Discussion 10:30 - 11:30 am

 

Israel Bonds honors Henry for his lifetime of service to Israel and our community.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

The Casino

12:30 pm

 

Federation's Annual Picnic/Wagonride

On Sunday, September 25th the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation

will be sponsoring a Picnic/Wagon ride at Diamond

Carriage Lane just south of Roaring Spring from 4:30 - 7:30pm.

There will be no charge for this event.

 

The Interfaith Committee of the Ecumenical Conference of Greater Altoona

invites you to attend

An Interfaith Prayer Vigil for September 11th

An Interfaith service of prayer, meditation, music and reflection

in acknowledgement of the 10th anniversary of September 11th

Saturday Evening, 8:00 pm, September 10, 2011

Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 309 Lotz Avenue, Lakemont

Host Monsignor Michael Becker

Prayers will be led by:

Michael Allison - Buddist, Shamsa Anwar - Muslim

Rabbi Audrey Korotkin - Jewish, Deacon Jack Hoffer - Christian

 

 

On Sunday, August 7th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the Trenton Thunder at 6 pm at Blair County Ballpark. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and will cost $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation by August 1 st.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at the Will Call box at Blair County Ballpark.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $5 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game.

 

The Story Tellers

Rev. Twanda Acey, United Methodist

Michael Allison, Buddist

Shamsa Anwar, Muslim

Father Mcihael Becker, Roman Catholic

Rabbi Audrey Korotkin, Jewish

James Hite assisted by Jack Speece and Edrie Cross, LDS

Facilitator: Cindy Baney

This year’s Matter of Faith Summer Series will be held on consecutive Tuesdays evening from July 12 through July 26. Each week you will hear 6 stories, one from each of the six different faith traditions. Following each story there will be time for small group discussion led by the story tellers. This is a free program.

Scripture and traditions from faiths around the world use stories to explain abstract ideas and to influence our perception. These three sessions offer a unique opportunity to experience some familiar and not so familiar stories. It will give us an opportunity to ask and answer for ourselves: "What does this story say to you?"

All sessions will be held in the social hall of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, Lower Brush Mountain Road, Hollidaysburg. Reshresments and fellowship will follow each program.

Tuesday, July 12 @ 7:00pm, Stories of Forgiveness

Tuesday, July 19@ 7:00pm, Stories of Healing

Tuesday, July 26 @ 7:00pm, Stories of Stewardship, more that just money

Made possible by a grant from the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation

 

Please join the Jewish Community at the Agudath Achim and Temple Beth Israel cemeteries to honor our Veterans. We are pleased to have Veteran John Gority as our guest speaker.

Thursday, May 26th at 7:00 pm.

 

Celebrate Yom Ha Atzmaut

with our Sunday School Students

Sunday, May 15th

Sunday School 10am to Noon

Agudath Achim Synagogue

 
   
   
 

GHOSTS

The Musical

April 7, 2011

7:30 pm

One Night Event

Historic Mishler Theatre

 

Altoona Jewish Community
Sunday School

Purim Carnival

Sunday March 20th

10:15 am to 12:30 pm

Jewish Memorial Center

 

12th Annual Altoona Jewish Film Festival

Opening Night

Thursday February 17th

Dinner 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Movie 7:30 pm

Dinner $12

Movie $5 Members $3 Non-members

RSVP 814-515-1182

 

Their perspectives may differ, but various faith groups are coming together for the second year to promote justice in Altoona. The Altoona Area Christian Coalition, in conjunction with the Ecumenical Conference of Greater Altoona, will hold the second annual Signs of Justice Interfaith event at 2 p.m. Jan. 17 at Altoona Area Junior High School auditorium.

The event is held being held for the third consecutive year and held close to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, because of his work for justice and racial equality. Bill Wallen, director of the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation, said, the emphasis will be on examples of justice. He said the after-school programs are an example of promoting justice in the city.

"How can we help young children to feel part of their community, get support from their community and grow into fully-functioning, successful adults?" he asked. Wallen said the concept of justice is seen in the Hebrew Scriptures, the teachings of Jesus and pillars of Islam.

"So many faiths talk about and preach about the importance of reaching out and helping others," he said. "We're all commanded from the beginnings of the Hebrew Scriptures to take care of widows and the poor."

Read more at the Altoona Mirror Online from last years event.

 

Thanksgiving Love Feast

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Call TBI to Volunteer 942-0057

 

Henry Winkler knows a thing or two about Hollywood, having spent nearly three decades enjoying success in the business. Winkler’s portrayal of “The Fonz” for 10 seasons on Happy Days (1974-84) made him one of the most recognized actors in the world. He won two consecutive Golden Globe Awards for Best Actor in a Comedy Series (1976 and 1977), and three Emmy nominations in the same category. He was also honored with a “star” on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Read more about his appearance at PSU Atloona here.

 

An Evening with the Media

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Featuring

Phil Dubrow, Neil Rudel, Don Clippinger

6:30 - 8 pm at TBI

RSVP at 515-1182

 


Judy Meisel survived the concentration camps of World War II at the age of 16. In the 1960's, she became involved with the Civil Rights struggle in the United States, meeting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In 1999, her life's story was told in the documentary film "Tak for Alt". Today, she travels and speaks of her experiences from the Holocaust to today's genocide in Darfur. Judy will be speaking at the following locations:

Penn State Altoona 6pm Tuesday, October 26th in the Chapel
Penn State University Park, 7:30pm Wednesday, October 27th at 26 Hosler
Juniata College, Huntingdon 7pm October 28th, Alumni Hall
St. Francis University, Loretto 6:30pm Tuesday, November 2nd

This is Judy's fifth visit to our area.

Click here to listen to Judy's interview with WRTA (2010).

Click here to listen to Judy's interiew with WRTA from her visit in 2009.

Click here to read about Judy's appearance at PSU.

Click here to go to our Photo Gallery and see photos of Judy's visit.

These lectures are in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Altoona.

  Temple Beth Israel's Tikkun Olam Committee, led by Karen Allen, is sponsoring a Harvest to Harvest Food Drive to benefit the Altoona Area Food Bank this fall. Please bring donations of canned fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grain products, etc. from Sukkot until Thanksgiving(September 24th through November 19th). All donations will help the needy right within our community. Take the time to reach out and help those in need. Every contribution helps. Thanks for your support!
 

Israel Bonds Honors Reverend Paul Johnson

Sunday October 13, 2010

1 pm

at

The Casino at Lakemont Park

Guest Speaker Dr. Raymond Tanter

Click here to read Dr Tanter's bio

 

Dear Friends,


Some of you may know that I'm a 12-year cancer survivor. I'm proud of that - but it would be so much better if nobody else had to go through what I went through! That's why I'm inviting you to join the Temple Beth Israel team of walkers in the October 16 "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walk at Penn State-Altoona.

Many Jewish women are at exponentially greater risk of developing breast cancer because of our genetic code, so it's important for the Jewish community to take part.


Please sign up here and start recruiting fellow walkers and donors, or pick up registration information on the bulletin board outside the Temple office.

Let's walk together toward a world with less cancer and more birthdays!


L'shalom, Rabbi Audrey

 

We hope everyone has had a relaxing and joyous summer with friends and family. Soon many of us will be preparing to return to school and prepare for the upcoming High Holy Days in September. Your Federation is happy to provide another opportunity for everyone to get together before the summer ends.

On Sunday, August 15th, your Federation is planning a night at Curve PA to see the Altoona Curve play the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at 6 pm at Blair County Ballpark. We hope to get a good crowd to sit together, get caught up and enjoy each other's company at the game.

Here are the details:

1. Tickets have been generously donated and subsidized by Roz and Phil Sky and will cost $3 for Federation members and $6 for non members.

2. Tickets will need to be paid for in advance with a check mailed to the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation by August 13th.

3. Tickets will be available for pickup at the Will Call box at Blair County Ballpark.

4. At the game each ticket holder will receive a FREE $10 food voucher to be used at the game.

We hope to see you at the game

 

This year’s Matter of Faith Summer Series will be held on consecutive Tuesdays evening from July 13 through August 3 at various setticgs. We will learn about the mix of theology and secular customs that have influenced wedding rituals in Judaism, Buddhism, Western Christianity, Eastern Orthodox and Islam.

The series begins on July 13, at 7:00pm at Agudath Achim Congregation with an examination of the Jewish wedding – focusing on the ketubah, liturgical music, the chuppah, breaking of the glass etc. Join us for this session and the others in the series which include:

Tuesday, July 20 @ 7:00pm Edith Davis Chapel, PSU Altoona

Tuesday, July 27 @ 7:00pm St. George’s Pan Orthodox Church

Tuesday, August 3 @ 7:00pm 150 Hawthorne, PSU Altoona

 

 

Abigail Simon and Neil Port will be appearing in Meredith Willson's "The Music Man" at the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts at Penn State Altoona. Performances are on:

Thursday, May 20, 7:00 P. M.
Friday, May 21, 7:30 P. M.
Saturday, May 22, 7:30 P. M.
Sunday, May 23, 2:00 P. M.
Sunday, May 23, 7:00 P. M.

All Seats $12.00

Tickets available at the Misciagna Family Center Box Office on the Penn State Altoona Campus or by calling 949-5452 Monday through Friday, 10:00 A. M.-2:00 P.M.

 


From 1933 to 1945, the Nazi regime led a campaign to eliminate those deemed “undesirable.” This spring, the HUB-Robeson Galleries, Penn State, University Park, will host a traveling exhibition from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, which will The “Deadly Medicine: Creating the Master Race” exhibit will allow viewers to consider the complex issues we face today, such as how societies acquire and use scientific knowledge. It informs patrons on topics like medical ethics, genetic engineering and, specifically how to balance the rights of the individual against those of the larger community.

The exhibit will run February 16 through May 2 in the Robeson Gallery, located on the bookstore level of the HUB-Robeson Center at Penn State, University Park. Events coordinated with the exhibit are listed below and attached for your convenience.

Deadly Medicine: Creating the Master Race is organized and circulated by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. It has been made possible by The Lerner Foundation and Eric F. and Lore Ross.

Link to video preview of exhibit

Link to class materials Web site for professors

 

Their perspectives may differ, but various faith groups are coming together for the second year to promote justice in Altoona. The Altoona Area Christian Coalition, in conjunction with the Ecumenical Conference of Greater Altoona, will hold the second annual Signs of Justice Interfaith event at 2 p.m. Jan. 17 at Altoona Area Junior High School auditorium.

The event is held close to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, because of his work for justice and racial equality. Bill Wallen, director of the Greater Altoona Jewish Federation, said, the emphasis will be on examples of justice. He said the after-school programs are an example of promoting justice in the city.

"How can we help young children to feel part of their community, get support from their community and grow into fully-functioning, successful adults?" he asked. Wallen said the concept of justice is seen in the Hebrew Scriptures, the teachings of Jesus and pillars of Islam.

"So many faiths talk about and preach about the importance of reaching out and helping others," he said. "We're all commanded from the beginnings of the Hebrew Scriptures to take care of widows and the poor."

Read more at the Altoona Mirror Online

 

     
 

 

To celebrate the exhibitions, SAMA will host receptions at its Loretto and Altoona museums on Saturday, December 12. A reception at the Loretto Museum will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., and will be followed by a reception in honor of Shirley Goldfarb: The Early Years at SAMA-Altoona from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Cost for the Loretto reception is $18 or $15 for members, while cost for the Altoona reception is $12 or $10 for members. For $20, guests can attend both receptions. Please R.S.V.P. by December 9 by calling the Altoona Museum at (814) 946-4464. Additionally, SAMA-Altoona will host a Lunch a l’Art program with Rebecca Cohen on December 9. Cohen is an author who is writing a book on the life of Shirley Goldfarb. Cost for the lunch program, which will begin at noon, is $13 or $12 for members. Please call the Altoona museum for reservations or more information.

Click here for more information about Shirley Goldfarb

 

     
 

6th Ward Ministries in conjunction with the Ecumenical Council of Altoona invites you to an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service.

The Evening Offering will consist of paper products, personal care items and cleaning products as well as monetary gifts. These items will be donated to local agencies to distribute to those in need.

Our service will be held on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 7:00 pm at Temple Beth Israel:

3004 Union Avenue, Altoona, Pa 16602

Read about this event in the Altoona Mirror

     
 

 

On Sunday, November 15, 2009, the Federation will be sponsoring a bus trip to this amazing new ballet that commemorates the Holocaust.

Click here for more information about the ballet and go to Youtube to see an interview with Stephen Mills, the creator of the ballet. More information about the Byham Theatre in Pittsburgh.

Cost for tickets are $28.50/person and must be paid to ensure your reservation. We can only take 50 people so make sure you register now!

The bus will leave at 11:00am and return at approximately 6:00pm.

RSVP quickly to the Federation office at 515-118s or by return email.