[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 63 (Friday, May 19, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E915]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          RABBI JOEL WEINTRAUB

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JIM GERLACH

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 19, 2006

  Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rabbi Joel Weintraub 
of Berks Country for his service to the Jewish Community Center and 
surrounding community.
  Rabbi Weintraub hails from New York City, was educated at Brooklyn 
College and then went on to get his masters degree and Rabbinical 
Ordination from Yeshiva College. In 1972, the Rabbi moved to Atlantic 
City, New Jersey, to take charge of his first congregation. In 1982, 
the Rabbi moved his wife, Shirley, and their family, sons Yossi and 
Yissi, to Reading, Pennsylvania, and the Kesher Zion Synagogue.
  Once in Reading, the Rabbi became an active member of the community. 
He has taught at Alvernia and Albright Colleges, being the Director of 
Hillel activities, and facilitated Passover Seders at both education 
institutions. Also, in order to promote interfaith dialogue, the Rabbi 
was involved in the annual Kristallnact program, spoke at local 
churches and schools, and gave tours of the synagogue. Additionally, 
Rabbi Weintraub used his dynamic personality to host radio and 
television shows and write articles for both secular and Jewish 
newspapers.
  When not hosting Bible studies, Shabbat dinners, and teaching Hebrew 
School, the Rabbi enjoys being able to pursue his hobbies that include 
racquetball, swimming, and reading.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in me today in honoring Rabbi 
Joel Weintraub for his outstanding dedication and service to Berks 
county and the Jewish Community Center.

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