| Wed - 2/08 | Tu B'Shvat |
| Thu - 2/16 | Film Festival |
| Thu - 2/23 | Film Festival |
| Thu - 3/01 | Film Festival |
| Wed - 3/07 | Erev Purim |
| Thu - 3/08 | Film Festival |
| Thu - 3/08 | Purim |
| Fri - 4/06 | Erev Pesach |
| Sat - 4/07 | Pesach I |
| Sun - 4/08 | Pesach II |
| Thu - 4/19 | Yom HaShoah |
| Wed - 4/25 | Yom HaZikaron |
| Thu - 4/26 | Yom HaAtzma'ut |
| Thu - 5/10 | Lag B'Omer |
| Sun - 5/20 | Yom Yerushalayim |
Congratulations to Joellyn Wallen Zollman, daughter of Carolyn and Bill Wallen. Joellyn, wrote a chapter on the film - Goodbye Columbus in the newly released book, "The Modern Jewish Experience in World Cinema," by Lawrence Baron. Good bye Columbus is a 1969 film based on the story by Philip Roth. Joellyn holds a Ph.D. in Jewish history from Brandeis University. She has taught courses in Modern Jewish History, American Jewish History, and Religious Material Culture at SDSU and UCSD. |
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He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, Ida; four children and their spouses; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Click here to read a past Federation Blog about Yale and Ida before they moved to Texas. The life of Yale Schulman was defined by determination, faith and enormous generosity. He was born in Altoona and lived there most of his life. At the age of 19, he volunteered for the U.S. Army and landed on Normandy Beach on D-Day in 1944. After serving throughout Europe, he returned to Altoona, where he married Ida Karp on April 20, 1947, and rejoined his family's business. Click here to view an interview of Yale by Ginger Glass. While working as a salesman, first with his brothers and then managing his own clothing, appliance and building supply stores, he always found time to give back to his community. He held numerous leadership roles in local, regional and national volunteer organizations, including Agudath Achim Synagogue, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, AMBUCS, Improved Dwellings for Altoona and the Shriners. Click here to read a 2008 Altoona Mirror article about Yale's work in our community. Friends will be received from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at E. Merrill Smith Funeral Home Inc., 2309 Broad Ave., Altoona (www.smithfuneralcenter.com), followed by a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. |
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Condolences to the family of Allen L. Goldberg. Allen, 80, Bethesda, Md., formerly of Altoona, died Sunday, January 8th, in Naples, Fla. Click here to read Neil Rudel's eulogy. Shown here at 80th birthday, Allen (front) was the center of his family, which included three children, three grandchildren and many extended family members and friends.
He was born in Altoona, son of the late Harry and Tessie (Livschitz) Goldberg. He married Marilyn Karasek on June 16, 1953, at Temple Beth Israel, and she preceded him in death on March 21, 1994. Allen was a graduate of Altoona High School and received his bachelor's degree in business from Penn State University. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, receiving the rank of lieutenant serving in Cheyenne, Wyo. He was the co-owner of Altoona Welding Supply for 40 years and was a member of Temple Beth Israel in Altoona. Allen enjoyed tennis, downhill skiing, traveling, classical music, watching Penn State football and spending time with his family. He was loved for his big heart and great sense of humor. |
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Jan. 16, 2012 UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State junior Scott Rosenthal (Clearfield, Pa.) has been honored as Big Ten Gymnast of the Week, the conference office announced on Monday. He was recognized with the award for the second time in his career for his record-setting performance in the No. 6 Nittany Lions' convincing victory over No. 14 Army on Saturday. As a sophomore in 2011, the local central Pennsylvania product established himself as one of the nation's top still rings performers. Rosenthal won titles in the event in nine of 10 regular season meets and finished second at the Big Ten Championships, earning Second Team All-Big Ten honors. At the National Collegiate Championships qualifier, he helped Penn State set a program record as a team in the still rings (62.300), placing second with a score of 15.850. Scott is the son of Dr Sheldon Rosenthal and of Judy Rosenthal, of blessed memory. |
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He was born in Pittsburgh, son of James D. and Audrey S. (Sigel) Rosenthall. He married Holly D. Green in Altoona on Aug. 29, 1982. Surviving are his wife; three children: Brynn N. Hansard and husband, Aaron, and their child, Avery Hansard, Caitlin A. Nedimyer and husband, Sean, and their children, Kadince, Keirnan and Mickey Nedimyer, and Ethan J. Rosenthall, all of Altoona; his parents; his brother, Michael of Indianapolis, Ind.; his sister, Ronna Holliday of Altoona; his dog, Bianca; and his cat, Aurora. Harry was a 1977 graduate of Altoona Area High School. He was employed as a pharmacist technician for the past 20 years at The Medicine Shoppe. He was a member of Temple Beth Israel and also belonged to Mountain Lodge 281. Harry enjoyed spending time with his family, watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, music and animals. |
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Condolences to the family of David G. Trude. David, 54, Hollidaysburg, died unexpectedly Sunday, November 13,2011. He was born in Altoona, son of Myrl Caldwell and Anna Caldwell Paikin. Surviving are a son, Ryan in Delaware; a daughter, Amber of Ebensburg; three grandchildren; his mother, Anna Paikin and husband, Saul; three brothers: Jeffrey of Altoona, Mark in Virginia and Patrick Caldwell of Plum; and several nieces and nephews. David was a 1974 graduate of Altoona Area High School, and he worked at the Jewish Memorial Center. Read the complete obituary here. |
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Condolences to the family of Bernard G. "Bernie" Dembert. Bernie, 88, Hollidaysburg, passed away peacefully Monday at The Lutheran Home at Hollidaysburg. Bernie was a 1940 graduate of Altoona High School and a 1943 graduate of Penn State University and passed the state CPA examination in 1949. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII, serving in the Pacific theater and attaining the rank of lieutenant junior grade aboard the destroyer tender USS Whitney (AD-4). He then served in the Korean War as a contracting officer in the naval aviation supply depot in Willow Grove. Bernie began his professional career as a CPA at Laventhal-Krekstein & Co., Wilkes-Barre. He formed his own practice in 1953 in Altoona, which is now known as Dembert & Hoyne CPA. He was a member of the American and Pennsylvania Institutes of Certified Public Accountants and a member of Temple Beth Israel. Read the complete obituary here. |
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It's Sevel Time
The Sevel Family - Scandinavian Cruise July 2011 |
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| Mazal Tov To Liz Benjamin and Adam Lardieri on the birth of their daughter, Ava Margaret who was born on the 2nd day of Rosh Hashanah, September 23rd, 2011. |
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Mike Holzer has been busy. Check him out: |
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As co-owner of J. Covitch & Son clothing store, Ruth created the Ladies Custom Corner and produced fashion shows for the Ebensburg community. She also served as president of the Ebensburg Woman's Club and Cambria County Woman's Club, board member of Children & Youth Services and docent at the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art and the Cambria County Historical Society. As a child, Ruth danced under local ballet legend Ruth Barnes and, later, in the thespian club at Penn State, where she earned a degree in social work and met her husband of 68 years - on a blind date. Her poise and kind humor, as well as her love of gardening, jelly making, gourmet cooking, world traveling and, of course, dancing, live on in the many people she touched. |
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Congratulations to Mickey and Neil Port. They celebrated 50 years of marriage on August 6, 2011.
Mike and Heather Holzer visit the Peitav Shul in Riga, Latvia while on a Jewish Heritage Tour of the city. |
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You are invited to an Aufruf on Saturday, July 2, 2011 at Agudath Achim. Service begins at 10 am. A Kiddush luncheon will be served after services. RSVP is helpful by June 15th.
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Also read about Henry's honor from United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism in the Altoona Mirror. |
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Greg is a Federation Board Director and owner of the small conglomerate, The Werstil Companies. He promises to make us proud. He has been highlighted in Member Profile. Check it out here. |
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1. Wife 2. Cake 3. Guys and Dolls 4. Old Guys |
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Mira Kaplan, granddaughter of Lynn Kaplan and daughter of Jon .
Footnote to the english-yiddish dictionary by Marty Krivoy and memories of being pinched on the cheek by my great grandmother. |
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Mazel Tov to Rabbi Leonard I. Beerman on his recent 90th birthday. This favorite son of Altoona was honored with "Rabbi Beerman Day" on April 9, 2011. Leonard Beerman is the founding rabbi of Leo Baeck Temple in Los Angeles, where he served for thirty-seven years until his retirement. He has taught at Claremont Men’s College and lectured widely in universities, churches, synagogues, and mosques. Throughout his career, the primary focus of his concern has been on the issues of justice and peace, and he has worked to bring conscience and faith to the forefront of many difficult and controversial social questions. He has been awarded honorary doctorates by the Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion, Lafayette College, and Washington & Jefferson College. |
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Mazel Tov to our community members for these recent accomplishments. Barbara Hollander was honored on Wednesday, April 20th, with a WISE Women of Blair County Arts and Letters Award. It's the third year for WISE, which stands for Women Involved in Scholarship and Empowerment, which honors women in the community. Read more about Barabara's honor in the Altoona Mirror. In the community |
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Gantse Mishpucha, a Sevel Family reunion. L - R, Jessica, Judy, David, Elizabeth, Brian, Laurie, Don
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Mazel Tov to the family of Ellen and Charles Kivitz on the engagement of their son, Jason, and Jamie Walter. A wedding date is set for June 5, 2011.
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Congratulations to Ginger Glass, Fallon Morris, Carly Port, Sarah Lipitz, Ethan Knepp, Noah Scheinberg and Ian Bilofsky. In Panim el Panim seminars and programs, teens learn from and become friends with a broad network of Jewish teens from around the country. Together they receive advocacy training, participate in service learning and have the opportunity to lobby their elected officials on Capitol Hill, putting what they have learned into action. All Panim el Panim seminars include interactive sessions in which students relate Jewish texts and values to the world around them. For twenty years, PANIM: The Institute for Jewish Leadership and Values has been empowering Jewish teens to a lifetime of activism, leadership and service. Now, as a division of BBYO, PANIM offers its high-quality content and experiences to significantly more Jewish institutions and teens. By providing relevant educational resources and curriculum, in depth immersive teen experiences and professional training for Jewish educators across North America the PANIM Institute of BBYO is creating a movement of young activists ready to take on the challenges facing society and the Jewish community. Click here as our confirmands write about their experiences at this conference. |
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Congratulations to Scott Rosenthal. He is the number 2 ranked gymnast in the country in the still rings and has helped Penn State become the number 5 team in the country. Scott of Clearfield, grew up watching the national powerhouse Nittany Lions and dreamed of joining them one day. Since his high school did not have a team, he trained with Gemini Gymnastics in Altoona. Even after success with Gemini, including his career highlight so far of winning a regional title in 2009, not one college recruited him. Click here to read more about Scott and watch the video from WTAJ. |
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Condolences to the family of Moe Antikol, who passed on Friday, February 18, 2011. Moe was a beloved family man, great friend, and leader of our Jewish community. is love of life and Judaism was an inspiration to all. To most of us, he was Agudath Achim Congreagtion. He will be greatly missed. Read about Moe in the Altoona Mirror. |
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Growing up in Wilmington, Steve was a natural athlete, talented at every sport he tried, but his true passion was baseball. Steve was also a very gifted debater and writer, which led him to study political science at the University of Delaware. While there, Steve played soccer, participated on the debate team and was very active with his fraternity. His next step after college was law school, but he decided halfway through that he would enlist in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War. |
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Congratulations to Joe Silverman, Don Clippinger, Neil Rudel and Phil Dubrow for their participation during the adult ed program entitled, "An Evening with the Media." Topics included the role of the media as watch dogs, issues concerning news versus commetary or entertainment, the role of anti-semitism in the news, and the future of the media and news industry.
Congratulations to Miss December, Jewish Girl of the Year. Click here for details. |
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Mazel Tov to Jakob Golant on the celebration of his 90th birthday. Condolences to the family of Ruth Roth, mother of Roz Sky, who passed away on November 25, 2010. |
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Nanci and Ben were honored at an Auf Ruf at Agudath Achim Congregation on October 2nd and they plan to live in Chicago. |
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Mazel Tov to Hazzan Horwitz "On Sunday November 7th, 2010 I ran the New York City Marathon. It was a beautiful day. This was my 5th New York City Marathon and 30th overall. The experience was exhilirating and the 26.2 mile race was extra special because of the Achilles Athletes I met and ran with throughout the 6 hour 13 minute jaunt through the 5 boroughs of New York City. Years ago, my marathon times were under 4 hours but I guess I no longer the spring chicken I used to be and I decided to really enjoy the crowds and experience this year and not worry about how fast I was going. Thanks for your support of Achilles and my running efforts. I am now training for the Dec. 5th Nittany Valley Half Marathon in State College which is on Sunday Dec. 5th. It will be my 4th year in a row running this challenging and hilly course. But nothing can compare to the New York City Marathon course and experience. My only regret is that I did not see on the course also running or get to meet Jared from Subway, the Chilean Miner, Al Roker, Bobby Flay, Amani Toomer, Robin Quivers or any of the other famous people who ran the Marathon. Happy Running or whatever makes you happy." |
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Mazel Tov to Andrew Arlick and the Arlick family. Andrew Arlick will become a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, November 27, at Agudath Achim Congregation. He is the son of Jay and Debbie and brother of Sarah and Rachel Arlick. |
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Condolences to the family of Helen Edelman. Helen C. Edelman, 88, Chico, Calif., passed away Sunday, Nov. 7, 2010, in California.She was born in 1922 in Altoona, daughter of the late Pinchus and Sarah Cazen. She married Jack Edelman in December 1946 in Altoona. He preceded her in death on March 19, 2010. Surviving are her son, Dr. Samuel Edelman, professor emeritus and executive director of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East; her daughter-in-law, Dr. Carol Edelman, professor emeritus; and her grandchildren: Sharonne and Ari Edelman. Helen was a longtime member of Agudath Achim Congregation. |
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It was written by Neil Rudel, the longest-tenured Penn State beat writer (since 1977), and Cory Giger, winner of nearly 20 national and state sportswriting awards covering the Nittany Lions. The book is 38 chapters and includes forewords by Bobby Bowden and President George H.W. Bush. Congratulations to Neil Rudel. If you'd like to order, call Neil at 946-7527 and he'll arrange to deliver your copy personally. |
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The project also includes research into the history of the synagogue and the Jewish families that immigrated to the area after World War I by 15 junior and senior class students at Northern Cambria High School. The research project is a continuation of the school’s “Cambria Re-coal-lection” series that enables the students to learn about local history in addition to the regular social studies curriculum. The synagogue was built in 1925 and has been vacant since 1968, when it was closed because only one Jewish family remained in the area. Click here for more details. Paula Pimentel and her father, Ben Root, are pictured in the foreground. |
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Also, thanks to Neil Rudel for organizing the event. Although the Curve lost 3-2 to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, the weather was warm and the beer was cold.
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| Condolences to the family of Boris Belenitsky, who passed away on September 27, 2010. | |||||||||
Condolences to the family of Bernard Shapiro, who passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2010, in Miami Florida. Bernard M.”Bernie” Shapiro, 92, of Miami, FL, formerly of Altoona, died Wednesday, August 18, 2010 in Miami. He was born on March 13, 1918 in Pittsburgh, the son of the late Joseph J. and Jeannette (Lilenthal) Shapiro. Bernie married Ethel G. Price on March 3, 1940 in Pittsburgh. She preceded him in death on March 15, 2002. He attended Temple Beth Israel. Bernie retired in 1983 as a sales representative with National Chemsearch, Inc. He was a member of Temple Beth Israel Brotherhood, B’nai B’rith, Hiram Lodge F&AM, Altoona Consistory, Scottish Rite Bodies, Jaffa Temple, Hollidaysburg Sportsmens Club, and Park Hills Country Club. Bernie is survived by his children, Leslie S. Shapiro of Edwards, CO and Sheldon L. Shapiro of Miami, FL, 4 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and his brother, Irving H. Shapiro of Simi Valley, CA. A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm on Sunday, August 22, 2010 at Mt. Sinai Cemetery officiated by Rabbi Audrey Korotkin. Service |
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Dear Friends, Who is your favorite person to cook with? When I was growing up, it was my Grandma Min, who made amazing briskets, roast chicken and chocolate cakes and always let me work with and learn from her as she stirred, measured and mixed. Nowadays, my very favorite people to cook with are my children George, 7 and June, 4. We often make a simple recipe like a fruit salad or batch of cookies together in the late afternoon. In the kitchen, we reconnect after they have been at school and I have been at work. We make cakes together for each other's birthdays and experiment with new recipes based on our favorite spices and flavors. For George, who has autism, cooking has been an important way for him to develop his fine and gross motor skills, gain essential sensory input, and work on language and literacy. Cooking has also helped him to develop a longer attention span and to engage in sharing joint attention with me. But more importantly, cooking is just fun! And so is eating good food! Whether you are a parent, teacher, grandparent or friend of a child, I hope that you will enjoy my new book. Kitchen Classroom is a unique cookbook that features 32 visual recipes, broken down into small steps written in words and depicted in photographs of George and June hard at work! Next month, I'll be launching my "Kitchen Classroom 4 Kids" website, featuring weekly recipes & tips. In the meantime, stay cool and happy cooking! |
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Click here to read more about Rabbi Korotkin.
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Congratulations to our high school and college graduates, Dina Bilofsky, Allison Cohen, Jacob Gordon, Ian Housman, Asher Kline, Dana Holliday, Adam Rudel, Alex Schmidt, Kara Schmidt, and Mark Thaler .
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Condolences to the family of Norman Glucroft. Norman passed away on Thursday May 27, 2010. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., son of the late Raphael and Sadye (Siegel) Glucroft. He married Shirley Marcus on July 4, 1943, in Altoona. Surviving are his wife of 66 years; two children: Susan Levin of Newtown and Ross and wife, Ellen, of State College; and six grandchildren. Norman was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of WWII with the rank of lieutenant, serving with the Strategic Air Command. He was a member of Agudath Achim Congregation, and he retired as owner of Roaring River Mills, Altoona. |
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Congratulations to Jordan Bailinger on his recent 80th birthday celebration!
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Congratulations to Heidi Soloman, daughter of Jan and Jack Housman for her work at WVU Hillel chapter. Read about Heidi in action in a recent article in The Jewish Chronicle. |
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You Go Girl! Lynn Kaplan and Harvey Fierstein at Fiddler on the Roof - a birthday present from her son, Jon.
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His “On Travel” column appears occasionally on Sundays in Travel, and his theater reviews appear in the Daily Magazine and Weekend. Read more about Howard and his work. |
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Congratulations to Phyllis and Steve Port and the Port family on the engagement of their son Joey to Amy Schwartz. |
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The award is the continuation of the YWCA's Tribute to Women Awards, which recognized women whose contributions included economic empowerment of women and the elimination of racism. Read more about Nancy's honor and her community work in the Altoona Mirror. |
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Call the Federation office to join now at 814-515-1182. Read more about the PJ Library program from The Werstil family or click on the icon below:
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Shalach Manot bags from the Agudath Achim Sisterhood arrive in Israel.
  
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Condolences to the family of Jack Edelman. Jack M. Edelman, 86, Chico, Calif., passed away Friday. He was born in Altoona and married Helen Cazen in December 1946. Surviving are his wife of 64 years; his son, Dr. Samuel Edelman; his daughter-in-law, Dr. Carol Edelman; and his grandchildren: Sharonne and Ari Edelman. Jack served in the New York National Guard from 1943-45. His career spanned more than 60 years as a salesman and buyer for Sky Brothers Inc. He later moved to Imler's Poultry and was Director of Sales and Marketing until his retirement at the age of 80. He moved to Chico, Calif., to be close to his son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren six years ago.Jack was strongly committed to volunteerism. He was a volunteer for the Altoona Lions Club and a longtime member of the Jaffa Shrine. He also was very involved in B'nai Brith and was a longtime member of Agudath Achim Congregation in Altoona. He was a passionate golfer and loved sports of any kind. Jack will be remembered by his immediate family and his numerous nephews and niece as a compassionate, humorous, fun-loving, generous man. No matter what happened, he could bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart. He will be missed. Read the complete obituary. |
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| Congratulations to Bob Neidorff. Bob was recently installed as a national Board of Director for ORT America. ORT supports a global network of schools and high tech training programs that provide innovative curricula and strategic educational initiatives to over 300,000 students globally in 63 countries. ORT seeks to help students be productive citizens and be assests to their community. | |||||||||
Rabbi Yossi and Chanale Stein and Hazzan Michael Horowitz were in the Kosher food section at Giant Eagle on Sunday, March 14th to help with Passover preparations, explain and demonstrate different aspects of the holiday.  |
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When it closed 42 years ago, each of the four Root children was given a piece of the synagogue's stained glass, which they display proudly in their homes. One of them, Paula Pimentel, who now lives in Altoona, cherishes the stained glass, a reminder of the synagogue. Read more from the Altoona Mirror. |
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Mazel Tov to the family of Janine and Greg Werstil on the birth of son Adam.
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Mishloach manot (pronounced "mish-LOH-ach mah-NOTE,", literally, "sending of portions"; also spelled mishloach manos and sometimes shortened to shalach manos), and also called a Purim basket, are gifts of food or drink that are sent to friends, relatives, neighbors, teachers, business associates, and any other acquaintances on Purim day. The mitzvah of giving mishloach manot derives from the Book of Esther. It is meant to ensure that everyone has enough food for the Purim feast held later in the day, and to increase love and friendship among Jews as a counter to Haman's assertion that the Jewish people are characterized by strife and disunity. |
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Congratulations to Byron Lasser, Les Weiss and Jerry Zolten. They each have been featured in the Altoona Mirror for their contrbutions to their professional fields and our community. |
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Byron Lasser , owner of the Lasser's Shoe Fly stores, which now includes Lasser's Shoe Fly, New Balance Altoona and Shoe Fly Boot Outlet, moved to Pleasant Valley Shopping Center in 2003, and recently celebrated it's 100th year in business. Click here to read more about Byron and Lasser's Shoes. Les Weiss is a licensed clinical social worker at Van Zandt VA Medical Center, Altoona, and works with veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress. Click here to read more about Les and his work. Jerry Zolten, an associate professor at Penn State Altoona, has been fascinated by black musical culture since the 1950s and has produced for black music groups, performed with them, written about them, studied their work and taught about them. Click here to read more about Jerry and his work. |
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Morris M. Levine, 92, Tyrone, died Tuesday evening at the home of his daughter, Nancy Siegel, in Teaneck, N.J. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Jacob and Ida (Frank) Levine. He married Bessie Quint on Dec. 30, 1945, in Philadelphia. She preceded him in death April 29, 2001. Morris was a 1936 graduate of Altoona High School. In 1936, Morris and his brother, Nate, opened their men's and boys' clothing store in Tyrone, which they operated together until Morris entered the service in 1942. He served in the U.S. Army, landing on Utah Beach on D-Day Plus 2, and he served in France until he was relieved of duty because of battle fatigue and a flareup of allergies. On his return from the military, Morris and his wife, Bess, started the Morris Levine Family Shoe Store. They served the area faithfully for 52 years and sold their business in 1988 upon their retirement. Morris and Bess were dedicated to and active participants in the life of the Tyrone community. Morris was a member of Agudath Achim Synagogue of Altoona. Click here for the complete obituary.
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Mazel Tov to the family of Karen and Barry Allen on the engagement of their daughter, Rachel, to Jeff Dickson, son of Don and Judy Dickson, Burlington, VT. Rachel has earned a B.A. in English from Washington and Jefferson College and she is now a student at the University of Montana School of Law, with a focus on domestic violence and family law. Jeff earned a B.A. in Art from Colby College and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Montana School of law. He is a civil attorney in Missoula, MT.
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Best Wishes to Ida and Yale Schulman on their move to Austin, Texas.
Mazel Tov to the Anne and Jakob Golant on their 60th wedding anniversary. |
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Mazel Tov to the family of Michelle and Steve Schmidt, and Barry Newborn, on the engagement of their daughter Danielle to Bob Kaniewsky. They are planning a 2010 wedding.
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  Mazel Tov to the Wallen family on the birth of Eli Alexander Wallen. Eli is the son of Kevin and Jamie Wallen and the grandson of Carolyn and Bill Wallen. Eli weighs in at 7 lbs and 2 ozs. |
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| Mazel Tov to the Kaplan family. Mira Lee Kaplan, born October 4, 2009. Daughter to Jon Kaplan and Stephanie Martin of Arlington, VA, Granddaughter to Steve and Lynn Kaplan. | |||||||||
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Hyman Leo "Hy" Adelman, 88, Juniata, passed away Thursday. He was born in Altoona, a son of the late Samuel and Rose (Meldorf) Adelman. Hy married Jennie Rachel Swonger Dec. 4, 1942, in Nebraska. She preceded him in death Dec. 31, 1988. Hy was a 1939 graduate of Altoona High School and attended Penn State Altoona in 1952. He was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of WWII with the rank of corporal, serving in the Asian Pacific Theatre. He worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad and retired from the Penn Central Railroad as a shipper/receiver. Hy was a member of Agudath Achim Congregation, Jewish Memorial Center, a charter member of the AZA, Jewish War Vets and VFW Post 8685. He was a former president of the Altoona Taxpayers League. Click here for complete obituary.
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Martin "Marty" "Ba" Weinstein, 91, of Duncansville, formerly of Altoona, died Saturday at his residence. He was born in Altoona, son of Israel and Bertha (Wilenzik) Weinstein.Marty married Regina Goldberg on June 23, 1946, in Carnegie, Pa. She preceded him in death on July 26, 1995. He is survived by his daughter, Judith L. Weinstein, who cared for him at home with all the love possible until the end; a son, Phillip R. in Tennessee; granddaughters: Krystle L. and Miranda M. Cruthers, whom Martin raised since birth as if he was their father, and he could not have loved them more; proud great-grandfather of Eva Joy Deleo, who was born March 9, 2008, and they celebrated his 91st birthday together. He was a member of Agudath Achim congregation.Marty retired from the United States Postal Service in Pittsburgh in 1980 after being employed for 21 years as a postal worker. Click here for complete obituary. |
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Mazel Tov to the family of Dianne and Neil Rudel on the engagement of Gino Rudel and Jess Lightner as well as becoming grandparents with the birth of Dominik Joseph Johnston, son of Nikole and Greg Johnston.  Dominik Joseph Johnston, Born July 7, 2009, 8 lbs 1 1/2 oz, 19 inches |
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| Congratulations to Neil Port for receiving the 2009 John Riley Service Award. This award is presented to an individual who has performed outstanding and meritorius service to our community through personal efforts by enhancing the dignity and worth of its citizens. The award is named after the late Big John Riley who gave his time and untiring efforts in furthering the purposes of The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission. Click here to read Bill Wallen's introduction speech. | |||||||||
Congratulations to the Port and Sky Families. Frozen Farm Products has received the Heritage Award and has been inducted into the Blair County Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame. Click here to read about this prestigous award in the Altoona Mirror. Congratulations to Ethan Knepp for his work to create awareness and to fundraise on behalf of Autism/Asperger's Disease. Ethan just completed his third year of support through an annual walk fundraiser. Funds were raised for the American Lung Association, Bloomin’ Youth Autism Program, and American Syringomyelia Alliance Project. Click here for more details about his project.
An American Rabbi in Warsaw by Rabbi Burt Schuman - Reform Judaism Fall 2009 Issue Michael Cohen Throws out the First Pitch Sammy Port, son of Marty and Barbara Port, Live in Concert!
On behalf of the Temple Adult Ed Committee, I want to express appreciation for your participation. The turn-out was highly respectable, thanks to you.
At a minimum, those who were present learned something that many people seem to be unaware of: Someone else's beliefs may seem very odd to you--and your beliefs may seem odd to others. THAT DOESN'T MEAN THAT THE "OTHER" IS BAD AND WORTHY OF YOUR ANGER AND EVEN HATRED. We can certainly appreciate that the "other" may be a lovely person and that we and they can co-exist, like each other, and even become good friends.
Ms. Anwar LOVED the folks she met! She was impressed with us on several levels, I am happy to report.
Edward M. (Eddy) Petsonk died Friday, May 22, 2009, in Somerset, NJ, at the age of 93. The son of Polish Jewish immigrants, he grew up in New York City, and in 1937 received a degree in electrical engineering from the City College of New York. In 1941 Mr. Petsonk came to Altoona, where he met Julia Leopold of Hollidaysburg. They wed the next year and were married for 57 years until Julia passed away in 2000. During the Second World War, Ed served his country as an aeronautical engineer. After the War, he entered the electrical contracting business in Hillside, New Jersey, and shortly thereafter established Electrical Contractors Associates and Blair Electric Service Company in Altoona. Subsequently those companies provided electrical construction services for many industrial facilities, schools and hospitals in the central Pennsylvania region. Ed was a charming, dynamic man who relished life and was devoted to his family and community. He cared greatly about youth, supporting the Boy Scouts as a scoutmaster and member of the Scout Council. He supported programs for disadvantaged young people by establishing college scholarships and providing leadership for Tomorrow’s Citizens, a program that offered gainful employment for troubled youth, many of whom went on to become community leaders. Mr. Petsonk was very active in Altoona’s Jewish community and was a dedicated supporter of Israel. Over the years he served as president of the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies, Temple Beth Israel, the Jewish Memorial Center, and chaired the Israel Bond drive on several occasions. With his wife, he initiated a Holocaust Education program in Altoona schools, a program that continues today. A lifelong supporter of athletics, he helped promote tennis and other racquet sports in Altoona. He continued to enjoy playing tennis until the age of 91. Ed also was an avid skier, and was the principal developer of the Blue Knob Ski Resort in 1963. Ed loved music, and participated in and led singing programs after he moved to West Virginia in 1995, and later in New Jersey, where he resided for the last year of his life. Mr. Petsonk is survived by his older brother George Shire, of Millersville, PA; four children: Judy, journalist and author of two non-fiction books; Lee, physician and researcher for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; Andy, environmental consultant in Sweden; and Carol Annette, international environmental lawyer; and seven grandchildren. He will be deeply missed. Services will be held on Tuesday, May 26, at Temple Beth Israel in Altoona, Pennsylvania, commencing at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at the Mt. Sinai Cemetery. Rabbi David Feder of Tree of Life Congregation, Morgantown, WV, will officiate. Visitation with family members prior to the service will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Temple Beth Israel. Members of the community will also be welcomed at the home of Phil and Roz Sky from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Tuesday evening. Those wishing to make donations in Ed’s memory are encouraged to give to the charity of their choice.
Congratulations to Andrea Dotan and Michael Rudnet on their engagement! Condolences to the Devorris and Cohen Families on the passing of Ruth Scott on Thursday, March 19, 2009. Congratulations to Rob & Andrea Okonak on the birth(s) of their twin sons:
Welcome We also welcome another professor at Penn State Altoona, Eric Charles, who teaches Psychology. He and his wife, Christi, and daughter Marin have moved to Altoona and are neighbors of Jerry and Janet Wayne. Alex Nidetch has returned to Hollidaysburg, where he is residing with his mother, Jeanne Heinbaugh, and helping with the operation of the Old Canal Inn. Alex attends services at Agudath Achim Congregation regularly and even devoted time to their Nearly New Sale. Best Wishes Several of our community residents have moved into the beautiful new Graystone Apartments overlooking Pleasant Valley. New apartment dwellers are Norma Sevel, Shirley Levinson and Manny and Sue Rosenberg. Also living there are community friends George Strobert and Helen Casey. A Chanukah program was provided for them and about 20 other residents there led by Hazzan Horwitz. Darryl Newton, our man in Iraq, arrived there during the first week in February following additional training he received in Kuwait. He welcomes greetings and news from his friends in Altoona. His e-mail address is the_law_man81@yahoo.com. Thanks Congratulations Our local SAVE Darfur Chapter recently sent over $16,000 to Jewish World Watch to benefit their backpacks for kids and solar cooker projects in the refugee camps in Chad for the Sudanese genocide survivors. Total donations from our group now exceed $17,000. Our local teens and adults have shown again that we can really make a difference. L’Chaim Milestones Weddings Nikole Rudel and Greg Johnston, on February 7, 2009 at the Blairmont in Hollidaysburg. Nicole is the daughter of Dianne and Neil Rudel and granddaughter of Charlotte and Dave Rudel. Engagements Births Jessica Shiloh Handmaker on August 15, 2008, daughter of Brett and Alisa Handmaker and granddaughter of Sandi and Charles Kaminsky. Special Birthdays Shirley Pechter was honored on her birthday, October 28 with becoming Mayor for the day in Hollidaysburg followed by a reception and party with family and friends. Recent B’nai Mitzvah Condolences The Klevan family on the death of Dr. Karl J. Kaufman of the Philadelphia area, originally from Altoona The Aryev family on the death of Moshe Shalom Aryev, father of Boris Aryev. He resided in Bat Yam, Israel and was a Holocaust survivor of the Dauchau camp. Paula and David Binus and their family on the death of Paula’s mother, Margaret “Maggie” Cooney. She was an honorary member of Agudath Achim, where she frequently helped with catering and baking.Obituaries Louis “Spider” Small Lou along with his brothers Meyer and Fred and sister Sylvia were the children of Henry and Minnie Small. They were a loving and religious family, active at Agudath Achim Congregation. Lou loved sports, especially basketball. He earned his nickname “spider” because of his height and good hands. He played for the AZA team and later officiated around our area. Lou was a faithful minyonaire and a devoted brother and uncle. He will be missed by his neighbors, friends and family. Esther Thaler Nederlander Esther retired as office manager and “top sergeant” for her brother’s dental practice after 30 years of service. She was an active member of Agudath Achim, a devoted fan of Altoona High sports, a bowler at the JMC and a bingo player. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and proud grandmother. Helen Kessler Rosch She was born in Czechoslovakia and came to New York City at age 3. She grew up in Brooklyn remaining there until 1942 when she married Dr. Bernard Rosch and moved along with him to various Army bases where he was stationed in WWII. They later moved to Altoona where he established his dental practice. Helen and Bernie had three children, Bill, Deborah and Leah who all grew up in Altoona. Bernie died in 1983 after 41 years of marriage. Helen and Bernie were both deeply involved in Agudath Achim Congregation. She was a Board member, Sisterhood president and Hebrew teacher. Helen committed much of her life to serving others in the community. She was a leader in Jewish organizations including Hadassah and Israel Bonds and in general community programs including Altoona Hospital, Easter Seals and Home Nursing Agency. Helen worked diligently to ensure compassionate care for individuals with terminal illnesses through helping to establish the Palliative Care Unit at Altoona Hospital and Hospice program at Home Nursing. Helen was a loving mother, grandmother; friend, volunteer and community advocate who is missed by all. Louis E. Leopold He was an Altoona native who graduated from Altoona High and the University of Pennsylvania. He did graduate work at the University of Chicago, the school for Asian Studies and The Hague. He served in the Navy in WWII. Lou originally worked in real estate and insurance before becoming a Political Science professor at Penn State Altoona. He focused his community life on political science, photography heritage and was an activist for equal rights. He was a member of Temple Beth Israel. Leopold wed Anna Shaffer in 1947 and they were married for 61 years at the time of his death. He is also survived by 2 children, John and Louise, 1 granddaughter and 2 great grandchildren. Lou was active in local politics and many historical and photographic societies. He was an avid writer publishing many articles in historical publications and an avid photographer with pictures displayed in various magazines and other journals. Tribute |
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Condolences to the family of Yale Schulman. Yale, 88, passed away quietly Monday evening in Austin, Texas where he had moved two years ago. 
Rosenthal Named Big Ten Gymnast of the Week
Condolences to the family of Harry Rosenthall, who died, Wednesday January 4th, at Altoona Regional Health System, Altoona Hospital Campus.
Condolences to the family of Ruth Covitch who passed peacefully on Friday, September 9, 2011, at Rebekah Manor, surrounded by family.
Mazel Tov to the Housman family on the engagement of Ian to Danielle Ascher.
Congratulations to Joe Port. Comedy writer-producers Joe Port and Joe Wiseman, creators of the 20th Century Fox TV-produced comedy pilot Family Album, have signed a two-year overall deal with the studio. Under the pact, the two will join New Girl, 20th TV's hot new comedy series for Fox, as co-executive producers. Additionally, their pilot Family Album is in strong contention at Fox for midseason.
Good luck to Greg Werstil. He is running for Frankstwon Township Supervisor and needs your vote on May 17th. Every vote counts.
Happy Birthday to Steve Port
Shayna Punim
Whereas, whereas, whereas, whereas:
The Confirmation Class of our Community Sunday School recently attended a Panim el Panim seminar in Washington DC.
We regret to inform you of the passing of Bernard (Bernie) Heller (89),
last night in Philadelphia.
Bernie was a Past President of the Agudath Achim Congregation from 1968-1971
and aWorld War ll veteran and partner of Stanley Electric.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth and 2 children, Jeff & Judy.
Condolences to the family of Art Cohen, who passed away peacefully Friday at his home. He was born in Wilmington, Del., the eldest child of the late Joseph Cohen and Beatrice (Bell) Cohen. He was a member of Agudath Achim Congregation of Altoona.
Mazel Tov to Janet Wayne on her recent milestone birthday celebration.
Mazel Tov to Barbara and Joel Hollander on the wedding of their daughter Nanci to Ben Caplan on November 27 in Washingdon D.C.
The Mirror is very proud to unveil our new book, "They Know Joe," which chronicles Joe Paterno's illustrious career through the memories of some of the country's most famous football figures and PSU program insiders.
The Coal Country Hangout Youth Center kicked off its project Friday to renovate the 85-year-old B’Nai Israel Synagogue to provide offices for United Way agencies and storage space for the borough and Susquehanna Historical Society.
Thank you to Roz and Phil Sky for donating Altoona Curve tickets for our annual Federation Night at the Curve. Over 40 members enjoyed each other's company as well as peanuts, kettle corn, Curve burgers and drinks.
Congratulations to Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer on her new book, The Kitchen Classroom. Below is a note from Gabrielle and a link for more information on her book.
Welcome to Audrey Korotkin, the new Rabbi at Temple Beth Israel.
The Altoona Jewish community, friends and family mourn the loss of Rabbi Berger. Celebrate his life and legacy by going to the following links:
Old Friends. Phyllis and Steve Port catch up with Altoona native Howard Shapiro. Howard is the son of Minnie and Max Shapiro and lives in Philadelphia. He joined The Philadelphia Inquirer in 1970 and has held many writing and editing positions, including cultural arts editor and travel editor. He now writes for The Inquirer’s features section.
Congratulations to Nancy Devorris. Nancy will be honored on Tuesday, April 6th, with a WISE Women of Blair County Tribute Award for her role in the community volunteer work. It's the second year for WISE, which stands for Women Involved in Scholarship and Empowerment, which honors women in the community.
Mira Kaplan is enjoying her first Passover book from the PJ Library Program. It is never too late to join the program.
Paula Pimentel was recently interviewed about the history of the It was 1968 when all but one Jewish family had left the town of Barnesboro. The Roots were the only Jewish family left, so the synagogue, which was built in 1925, closed its doors forever.But it is to occupied again. The structure is to be restored and used by the United Way and other social services.
The Agudath Achim Sisterhood held a "High Tea" to prepare shalach manot packages for Israeli soldiers. Chanale Stein led an enlightening discussion about Esther and her heroism, and games were played about the story of Purim.
