Bonnie Squires is a communications and fundraising consultant who has had experience with universities, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses. She was inducted into the Philadelphia Public Relations Hall of Fame in 2006, and her friend and classmate from Penn, Maury Povich, was the keynote speaker. She is the Board Secretary for the Philadelphia Jewish Voice.
She writes a weekly opinion column in the Main Line Times, the oldest and largest suburban weekly newspaper. She is a photojournalist as well for publications like thePhiladelphia Public Record, and the Los Angeles Jewish Observer. Her op-eds also appear in the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Philadelphia Daily News and other news papers in other cities and states.
She is a long-time advocate for social causes like early childhood education, erasing the stigma of mental retardation and mental health, breast cancer research, and other worthwhile causes.
Politics has been a life-long passion of hers, and she has served for decades as a committee person, as well as having run for office.
For several years she hosted a live call-in talk show on radio station WHAT-AM, dedicated to building bridges between African Americans and Caucasians in order to find solutions to society's pressing problems.
She loves both her alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania, and her adopted school, Temple University, where she worked as a top administrator for many years.
Bonnie and her husband live in an historically certified English Village home in Lower Merion Township.
She was recently inducted into Governor Ed Rendell’s Best 50 Women in Business in Pennsylvania.
Delaware Governor Jack Markell (center) was featured speaker at the recent Jewish Leadership Series luncheon. Hosted this time by the law firm Cozen O'Connor, the Jewish Leadership Series brings together professionals interested in politics and elected officials. Seen here with Governor Markell are (left to right) Michael Bronstein, the organizer of the event, and Israeli Consul General Daniel Kutner.
— by Bonnie Squires
The latest in the Jewish Political Leadership Series luncheons, organized by Michael Bronstein, featured Delaware Governor Jack Markell, with the law firm of Cozen O'Connor hosting the event.
A bi-partisan group of Jewish leaders, including the Israeli Consul General Daniel Kutner and several elected officials in Philadelphia and the suburbs were among the attendees.
Governor Markell expressed concern about the state government budget cuts in education, contrary to the initiatives and philosophy of the Obama administration. He pointed out previous working relationships at the federal level, where President Reagan worked with Democrats to pass legislation, and where Bill Clinton worked with Republicans to further his administration's objectives.
David Eisner, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, admires the 1975 simultaneous Springsteen covers of TIME and NEWSWEEK magazines, part of the new exhibit, "From Asbury Park to the Promised Land: The Life and Music of Bruce Springsteen."
— by Bonnie Squires
The National Constitution Center is the only venue to host the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum's must-see exhibition, From Asbury Park to the Promised Land: The Life and Music of Bruce Springsteen, outside of Cleveland, where the exhibit has been housed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum. The first major exhibition about the American songwriter will run at the Center from February 17 to September 3, 2012.
The opening reception attracted 1100 friends and supporters of the Center, including the Honorable Joan Specter, who serves as Director of Major Grants for the Center, and her husband, Senator Arlen Specter. Mayor Bob Johnson, of Asbury Park, New Jersey, was also in attendance and greeted the guests from the bandstand.
The B Street Band entertained party-goers with rousing Springsteen renditions, and the food was typical boardwalk-seashore variety, including hot dogs, pop corn, cotton candy, and hamburgers.
Major movers and shakers in Philadelphia's economy were among the 1500 supporters at Saturday night's 155th Anniversary Academy of Music Concert and Ball, including (left to right) Ron and Rachelle Kaiserman, Robert and Caroline Zuritsky, and Renee and Joe Zuritsky.
The Philadelphia Orchestra's 155th Academy of Music Anniversary Concert and Ball featured the debut on the Academy of Music stage of. Music Director Designate Yannick Nézet-Séguin , with special guests multiple Grammy Award®-winners singer/pianist Diana Krall and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Tipping its hat once again to the first Academy concert, the program was a mix of popular and classical music, just as the 1857 opening concert was.
Jazz performer Krall surprised the audience by calling back on stage her friend and collaborator, Yo-Yo Ma, to the delight of everyone.
For the first in 140 years, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, now has two Democratic Commissioners, making the Honorable Josh Shapiro and Leslie Richards the first Democrats to hold the majority posts. In addition, both Shapiro and Richards are Jewish, another historic first for the county seat in Norristown. Shapiro had served for years as a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, once serving as Deputy Speaker, and Richards had served as chair of the Whitemarsh Township Board of Commissioners.
The award-winning documentary, Paper Clips, was shown Sunday, at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, and Sandra Roberts, the eighth-grade teacher from Whitwell, Tennessee, who supervises the project, spoke to several hundred Har Zion Hebrew High School students, parents, friends and community members. Seen here welcoming Ms. Roberts are (left to right) student Seth Selarnick, his mother Nancy Selarnick, both of Penn Valley; Ms. Roberts; and Norman Einhorn, co-principal of Har Zion's Hebrew High School.
Ms. Roberts was asked by her principal in the late 1990s to create an after-school project to each tolerance and understanding, particularly in light of the lack of diversity in their small-town middle school. When Roberts learned that her students just could not fathom what 6 million would be, in studying the Holocaust and the extermination of Jewish communities in Europe, she challenged them to come up with a collection of 6 million somethings so they could touch and feel the enormity.
The students did research and learned that Norwegians wore paper clips on their collars during Wolrd War II as a way of showing quiet sympathy for the Jews who were perishing in concentration camps. So Whitwell students began writing letters to famous people, journalists, companies, asking everyone to donate a paper clip in memory of someone lost in the Holocaust.
The Holocaust Project mushroomed, and an article in the Washington Post really helped launched the project. The film, which was done about ten years ago, criss-crosses the country, raising awareness and teaching students and their families to work to stamp out prejudice.
On Thursday, November 17, meet the Montgomery County Coroner himself, when he visits The Franklin Institute to discuss real-life CSI. Known for his entertaining style and fascinating tales, he'll delve into the vast differences between his role in crime-solving and how it's portrayed on the popular television shows. Guests are encouraged to come early and tour CSI: The Experience in advance of the event. Dr. Hofman is pictured here inspecting one of the "crime scenes" on display at The Franklin Institute as part of the CSI: The Experience exhibit.
Leslie Richards and Josh Shapiro were ecstatic with the response of fellow Democrats as they announced that they had received a call from Bruce Castor conceding the election, making the Democrats the winners of the Montgomery County Commissioner majority seats for the first time in history. For 140 years, the Republican party had dominated the suburban Philadelphia county's politics, but November 8, 2011, became an historic day, as the Democrats won the county-wide election with comfortable margins.
This is also a historic election in that both Shapiro and Richards are Jewish. Preliminary figures have Shapiro with 87,965 votes and running-mate Ms. Richards at 86,014, to Bruce Castor's 76, 635, and Jenny Brown's 74,983. Castor is an incumbent Republican county commissioner, and Brown is a Lower Merion Township Republican commissioner. The top three vote-getters, Shapiro, Richards and Castor, will be sworn in January in Norristown.
Liberty Medal award-winner Secretary Robert Gates and David Eisner, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center
Presenting the Liberty Medal to former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates were SFC Dana Graham of the Liberty USO, Anthony Odierno, representing the Wounded Warrior Project, and David Eisner, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center.
After a lifetme of public service, in the CIA, and ending with serving as Secretary of Defense, the Honorable Robert Gates was awarded the Liberty Medal on September 22 at the National Constitution Center. The word "liberty" took on added meaning as David Eisner, the president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, had invited Iraq war veteran Anthony Odierno, representing the Wounded Warrior Project, and SFC Dana Graham of the Pennsyvalnia Army National Guard, representing the USO of Pennslvania and Southern New Jersey (Liberty USO), to present the actual Liberty Medal to Dr. Gates.
(left to right) Ken Kaiserman, long-time Philadelphia Theatre Company (PTC) board member and past president, was congratulated on his being honored at the 35th anniversary gala by Mayor Michael Nutter and CBS3's Pat Ciarrocchi, who served as auction host.
-- by Bonnie Squires
The Philadelphia Theatre Company (PTC) dazzled hundreds of supporters with its 35th Anniversary celebration Gala, honoring long-time board member Kenneth S. Kaiserman of Kaiserman Company, Inc., and PTC Producing Artistic Director Sara Garonzik on Monday, June 6 at 6PM in the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt at the Bellevue. Governor Ed Rendell served as master of ceremonies, and his son Jesse beamed approvingly from the first table down front.
In addition to the honorees, Rendell praised Suzanne and Ralph Roberts, and Carl Dranoff, the developer of Symphony House, which houses the Suzanne Roberts Theatre, the permanent home of the Philadelphia Theatre Company.
The evening featured appearances by multiple Tony- and Emmy-award-winner Tyne Daly, star of the upcoming revival of Terrence McNally's Master Class on Broadway; Broadway and film star Kathleen Turner, who starred in PTC's world premiere of Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins; Tony Award-winner and frequent PTC performer John Glover; Quentin Darrington, star of the recent revival of Ragtime; and the glorious voice of Alexandra Silber.
Philadelphia Israeli Consul General Daniel Kutner held a celebration of Israel's 63rd anniversary at the National Museum of American Jewish History, and hundreds of area residents and VIPs turned out.
Mayor Michael A. Nutter (left) joined Consul General Daniel Kutner (right) for the celebration.
Sam Katz, Rabbi Aaron Landis, Councilman Jim Kenney, and Joseph Zuritsky (left to right) were among the people who came to the National Museum of American Jewish History to celebrate Israel's 63rd anniversary.
Confetti rained down on philanthropist and Drexel trustee emeritus James E. Marks at the dedication of the new Intercultural Center named for Marks. The James E. Marks Intercultural Center is located on the northwest corner of 33rd and Chestnut Streets and welcomes all University students and alumni, regardless of religious traditions, humanistic beliefs, or cultural values. The Center embraces the University's broad definition of diversity, which includes socioeconomic status, ability, political beliefs, racial and ethnic background, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Bonnie Squires, president of Squires Consulting, was honored by the Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival at its recent New Filmmakers Festival at the Gershman Y, for her 25 years as vice-chair of the PJFF and her role in creating the New Filmmakers Festival. She is seen here with Louis Coffey, Esq., chairman of the board of the Gershman Y, who made the presentation.
Al Berger and Carol Auerbach, husband and wife, each heads up a private family foundation. The Auerbach Agency at the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia was founded by Auerbach when she lived in Philadelphia. Now, as a board member of the Jewish Funders Network, she divides her time between New York City, Seattle, and Jupiter, Florida.
For the twenty-first year, the Jewish Funders Network convened its annual international conference, this time in Philadelphia at Loews Hotel. The theme this year: What's Your Story? The Power of Narrative to Drive Change.
Andy Goodman, the keynote speaker, entertained the audience while transmitting very important points, about how to inspire others to support the various philanthropies represented by the 315 attendees.
Dorit Straus shared the story of her chance encounter on a New York subway with the famous violist Joshua Bell, learning that Bell was the proud owner of a Stradivarius violin which had once belongs to an earlier generation's highly regarded violinist, Bronislaw Huberman, who had a dream of creating an orchestra in Palestine. Huberman managed to collect hundreds of professional musicians, saving them from the Nazis, and eventually establishing the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
David Eisner, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center (NCC), today joined filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick and Corporation for Public Broadcasting President Patricia Harrison to announce collaboration to foster a national conversation about "Civility and Democracy."
Lower Merion Commissioner Cheryl Gelber hosted a notary and petition-signing party at her home. Seen here are (left to right) Montgomery County Coroner Walter I. Hofman, M.D.; Rep. Josh Shapiro, candidate for county commissioner; Joe Foster, MCDC vice-chair; and Jill Stein, co-chair of the LM-Narberth Democratic Committee.
Today the president of the Jewish community in Tunisia, Roger Bismuth, informed AFP (Agence France Press) that no anti-Semitic act has been signaled in Tunisia since the start of the popular revolution.
Cautioning against a rumor that surfaced on Tuesday regarding a fire in a synagogue, Mr. Bismuth declared "at no time were the Tunisian Jews either a target of attacks or targets of foul comments during this revolution."
The chief of the Tunisian Jewish community, which numbers 1600 persons, stated a "formal denial" of "a rumor describing a fire in a synagogue" on Monday evening in El Hamma, near the coastal town of Gabes (south east). He added that "There is no synagogue in El Hamma. There is a mausoleum for a great Rabbi, which is a site of pilgrimage. Monday night several buildings in the region were the target of vandalism and the guard house of the mausoleum was vandalized and a few chairs stolen."
The Jewish community in itself was not a target. He explained that "A building of the UGTT (the main Tunisian labor union) was vandalized, and so were other buildings."
A panel of prominent legal observers took part in a discussion focused on legal industry trends and the future of the profession on Tuesday, Feb. 1, at Philadelphia Bar Association headquarters in Philadelphia. The program, Law & Reorder: Legal Industry Trends & the Future of the Profession, focusing on the book by the same name, written by Deborah Epstein Henry, Esq., was co-sponsored by the Association's Large, Mid-Size, and Solo and Small Firm Management Committees; the Women in the Profession Committee; and the Bar-News Media Committee.
The program featured an interview by Comcast television's Lynn Doyle with Deborah Epstein Henry, author of Law & Reorder. Henry is the founder of Flex-Time Lawyers LLC. Following the interview, Doyle moderated a panel discussion with Henry; Carol Ann Petren, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, CIGNA Corporation; JoAnne A. Epps, Dean, Temple University Beasley School of Law; and Abraham C. Reich, Co-Chair, Fox Rothschild LLP.
Marc Rayfield, head of CBS Radio in Philly, and his wife Nicole, joined friends Haley and David Adelman at the President's Reception in the Academy Ballroom.
The 154th Anniversary Academy of Music Concert and Ball on Saturday night, January 29, 2011, was supported by many members of the area's Jewish community. A list of the major sponsors, plus a bird's-eye view of participants, highlighted the important role which the Jewish community plays in the cultural life of Philadelphia and the region.
Photos of these community leaders follow the jump.
President Barack Obama spoke in his State of the Union address about the election in Sudan and the revolution in Tunisia:
Recent events have shown us that what sets us apart must not just be our power -- it must be the purpose behind it. In South Sudan -- with our assistance -- the people were finally able to vote for independence after years of war. Thousands lined up before dawn. People danced in the streets. One man who lost four of his brothers at war summed up the scene around him: "This was a battlefield for most of my life. Now we want to be free."
We saw that same desire to be free in Tunisia, where the will of the people proved more powerful than the writ of a dictator. And tonight, let us be clear: the United States of America stands with the people of Tunisia, and supports the democratic aspirations of all people.
We must never forget that the things we've struggled for, and fought for, live in the hearts of people everywhere. And we must always remember that the Americans who have borne the greatest burden in this struggle are the men and women who serve our country.
My husband, a native of Tunisia, who has been following events there minute by minute with great interest, using the internet, Skype, and emails to communicate with family and friends in that North African nation, certainly perked up when he heard President Obama stand with the democratic desire of the Tunisian populace.
Earlier in the evening, before hearing the President's speech, we had been to the Dona Gracia chapter of Hadassah in center city, where our friend Jerry Sorkin, who runs a touring agency called TunisUSA, and who was flying to Tunisia the very next day, gave an edifying lecture on the history of the Jewish community in Tunisia and the unique nature of the Tunisian psyche.
Unlike other Arab countries, Tunisia has always lived side by side with their Jewish citizens. In fact, there is a Jewish senator in the Tunisian Parliament. And Tunisians who have migrated to France and Israel feel comfortable in returning to Tunisia once or twice a year to celebrate Jewish holidays.
In analyzing the unfolding events of the Tunisian revolution, Sorkin pointed out that there have not been any examples of Tunisian turning against Tunisian, no example of hostility against other countries, no incidents of anti-Semitic behavior.
Senator Bob Casey spoke to members of the media by phone after the President's remarks, and I got a chance to ask him his reaction to the President's comments on Tunisia.
Senator Casey is the Chairman of the Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs Subcommittee of the Foreign Relations Committee which has jurisdiction over Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, Israel and the Middle East. So he must be watching events unfolding in Tunisia with particular interest.
Senator Casey said that, regarding the Tunisia question, there was "bipartisan consensus." He continued,
Whether it is Tunisia or democratic movements in Iran or around the world, we've always been a beacon of light for the democratic forces. And that continues in our support for the people of Tunisia - it's a situation in a place that bears a lot of watching and vigilance. I think it was very important that the President, with the full support of the Congress, as you saw, is in full support of Tunisia.
Announcement on the Pima County Republican website promoting an event last June organized by Republican challenger Jesse Kelly. There is nothing wrong with holding a gun-themed campaign event, but the way they worded the ad is just sick and encourages borderline personalities to engage in this kind of violence.
Betsy R. Sheerr, former President of JAC-PAC, a pro-choice, pro-Israel advocacy organization:
I've had the privilege of knowing Congresswoman Giffords since she first ran for office six years ago. Even then, we knew were in the presence of a rising star: knowledgeable, passionate about public service, unafraid to take a bold stand politically, and genuinely warm and approachable. Supporting her candidacy has been gratifying: she is a devoted Member of Congress and a thoughtful, bright woman.
This tragic shooting is an affront to all Americans. Perhaps, just perhaps, it will shock our country into reexamining our accepted standards of civility and the ways we permit extremism and hatred to fester in our midst.
Pennsylvania State Representation Josh Shapiro (D-Abington and Upper Dublin)
The attack on Rep. Giffords was an attack against all who serve and our democracy. My thoughts and prayers go to each of those injured and the families of those slain.
Our country was founded on the promise and hope of words from common people. We need to restore a sense of civility and purpose in our public discourse by encouraging all points of view be heard and consensus be sought.
Marcia Balonick and Gail Yamner, Executive Director and President of the Jewish Women's Political Action Committee (JACPAC)
Yesterday Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ), was shot while at an event known as "Congress-on-your-Corner" in a grocery store parking lot in Tucson, AZ. Eighteen other people, including six members of her staff, were also shot. There were six fatalities, including a federal judge and a nine-year-old child. Giffords survived surgery at University Medical Center in Tucson. Although she is in critical condition, her surgeon stated he is as "optimistic about her recovery as it is possible to be" given the extent of her injuries.
The shooting of Congresswoman Giffords has caused shock and dismay in many quarters. One of 27 Jewish members of Congress, she is a special friend to JAC. Marcia Balonick, executive director, said the JAC contingent that attended the Congressional swearing-in ceremonies on Wednesday attended a reception in her honor. "I met and spoke with her mother and we talked about how special she is. Her mother told me how lucky she was to have such a wonderful daughter and that life was 'always an adventure with Gabby.' The attempted murder of any member of Congress would be tragic to me, but this is personal."
In 2009 Giffords spoke for JAC at the Detroit chapter's membership event. She was extremely well received. Lisa Lis, chair of that event, also considers the shooting a personal matter. "This is truly heartbreaking. She is a bright star in the Congress, passionate about bringing positive changes to the country. When she spoke at our meeting, we were so impressed by her dedication to public service. She was genuinely approachable and touched everyone's heart."
Gabrielle Giffords is a positive force on issues of concern to JAC. She is a staunch advocate for Israel, reproductive rights and separation of religion and state. Her door is always open to JAC and the PAC's relationship with her is very close.
She stood on principle when it came to health care reform even though it could have cost her her re-election. As a member of the Armed Services committee, she is well respected and well liked even by her political opponents. Gail Yamner, JAC President, said "You cannot help but like her. She is a warm, caring woman who wants only to serve her country. She is an incredible woman who believes in an America that is for everyone."
We do not fully know the shooter's motivation, but Arizona's laws that permit easy access to guns make it too easy to commit a heinous crime such as this one. His violent act is likely to have a chilling effect on the public's access to elected officials. American democracy is ill-served by a violent gun culture and by security barriers erected between the people and their government. Neither is consistent with Gabby's modus operandi.
The shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords is a personal affront, an affront to the Jewish community, to her Arizona constituents and to the country.
I am sickened by the shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, her staff, and others today in Arizona.
"Gabby is one of my closest friends and my thoughts and prayers are with Mark, Gabby's parents, and their family as they struggle to get through this unimaginable tragedy. I pray for her full recovery and the recovery of the other victims of this horrific act of senseless violence.
Anyone who knows Gabby, knows that she is one of the nicest people you will meet. I've never heard her raise her voice in anger or express anything but optimism for our future and our nation.
Just two days after she stood on the floor of the House of Representatives and read from the 1st Amendment of the Constitution guaranteeing free speech, she was shot while speaking with her constituents. The interaction of a Member of Congress with the people they represent is one of the greatest tenets of our democracy. I know how strongly Gabby feels about being accessible to the people that she represents.
I know from our many hours spent together that Gabby ran for Congress for one reason, to make America a better place and after her recent reelection, she made the following statement: 'Our country must be strong enough to solve problems and that means we must learn how to work together again. Our children are counting on us.'
To her staff and the family members of her staff and Judge John Roll killed in this shooting I extend my deep sympathy and prayers. No one, not a Member of Congress, nor a dedicated public servant should have to fear for their safety while working to uphold our democracy.
And to the people and family members of the public attacked at this event, you are in my thoughts and prayers. The American public should not have to worry that they will suffer a violent attack while carrying out their right to petition their government.
My husband and I will be praying as hard as we can that Gabby pulls through this and makes a full recovery so she can be the bright light that she has always been to her family and friends.
Nancy Gordon, Pennsylvania Coordinator, Million Mom March (2000), Co-founder, CeaseFirePA
This a terrible tragedy, but it is not the first and it will not be the last. Also tragic are the shooting deaths of Chief Judge John Roll, the other victims of this shooting (including a 9-year-old girl), and the 13 Americans, on average, who lose their lives to gun violence every single day. An effective way to reduce the incidence of gun deaths and injuries would be to restrict access to guns, through meaningful background checks, licensing of gun owners, registration of guns, and a prohibition on civilian ownership of assault weapons. Most of our legislators have refused to take these steps. While this shooting was horrifying, anyone who's been paying attention should not be shocked by it; with over 300,000,000 guns out there in civilian hands, and virtually no regulation of who's allowed to have them, we are all at risk, all the time. No wonder that 13 people are killed each day, and almost 300 people are shot and injured every day, according to the Brady Campaign.
It is a terrible tragedy and our prayers are with her and the familes of all the victims. Once again, it demonstrates how easy it is for guns to get in the wrong hands in this nation.
Anti-Defamation League, Arizona Chapter
Phoenix, AZ, January 9, 2011 ... The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today condemned the tragic shooting rampage that wounded U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and killed and wounded more than a dozen innocent bystanders in Tucson, with reports of six dead and 14 wounded.
Miriam Weisman, ADL Arizona Regional Board Chair, and Bill Straus, ADL Arizona Regional Director, issued the following statement:
We are shocked by this unconscionable and horrific act of violence against one of our highly respected public servants. We agree with President Obama and House Speaker John Boehner that this was more than an attack on one member of Congress - it is an attack on all public servants and the very fabric of our democracy.
During her years in the statehouse, Rep. Giffords served on the ADL Arizona Regional Board. Her affiliation with ADL, which monitors and exposes hate and extremist groups, contributed to her awareness of the nexus between hate ideology and violence. It is a testament to her dedication to her constituents that despite past threats against her, Rep. Giffords has always been so accessible to the people she represents. Our thoughts and prayers are with Congresswoman Giffords and the other victims and their families.
ADL remains in contact with law enforcement as investigators endeavor to establish a motive for the attack. It is critical to determine whether the alleged shooter, Jared Lee Loughner, acted alone or with others, and whether he was influenced by extremist literature, propaganda or hate speech. While it is still not clear whether the attack was motivated by political ideology, the tragedy has already led to, as Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik put it, "soul searching" about the connection between incivility and violence. We applaud Sheriff Dupnik's statements
condemning the volatile nature of political discourse in America and for taking this investigation seriously.
Lynne Honickman, Founder, Moms Against Guns (now merged with CeasefirePA)
It was the worst of times! devastating... unbearably sad...senseless... a beautiful young representative reaching out to her constituency...a child beginning a proud life of service...a judge who had devoted 40 years to our benefit, and many others who had come together to dialogue for the welfare of all. But, in the way of all evil acts, there is its opposite side, the best in our country will rise above politics and self serving rhetoric -and will demand not only justice but a new kind of civility that will not tolerate illegal guns, automatic weapons in wrong hands and anyone or anything that jeopardizes our hard fought and hard won freedoms.
We are all heartsick----- but, non-the-less hopeful Americans, praying for Gabby Gifford's recovery as well as her companions and the families of all those stricken....May G-d Bless them and our country...and keep us all strong and just.
Today, U.S. Senator Arlen Specter (D-PA) delivered the final floor statement of his Senate career.
This is not a farewell address, but rather a closing argument to a jury of my colleagues and the American people outlining my views on how the Senate - and with it, the Federal Government -- arrived at its current condition of partisan gridlock, and my suggestions of where we go from here on that pressing problem and key issues of national and international importance.
To make a final floor statement is a challenge. The Washington Post noted the poor attendance at my colleagues' farewell speeches earlier this month. That is really not surprising since there is hardly anyone ever on the Senate floor. The days of lively debate with many members on the floor are long gone. Abuse of Senate rules has pretty much stripped senators of the right to offer amendments. The modern filibuster requires only a threat and no talking. So the Senate's dominant activity for more than a decade has been the virtually continuous drone of the quorum call.
But that is not the way it was when I was privileged to enter the world's greatest deliberative body 30 years ago. Senators on both sides of the aisle engaged in collegial debate and found ways to find common ground on the nation's pressing problems. When I attended my first Republican moderates luncheon, I met Mark Hatfield, John Chaffee, Ted Stevens, Mac Mathias, Bob Stafford, Bob Packwood, Chuck Percy, Bill Cohen, Warren Rudman, Alan Simpson, Jack Danforth, John Warner, Nancy Kassenbaum, Slade Gorton, and others-a far cry from later years when the moderates could fit into a telephone booth. On the other side of the aisle, I found many Democratic senators willing to move to the center to craft legislation: Scoop Jackson, Joe Biden, Dan Inouye, Lloyd Bentsen, Fritz Hollings, Pat Leahy, Dale Bumpers, David Boren, Russell Long, Pat Moynihan, George Mitchell, Sam Nunn, Gary Hart, Bill Bradley, and others.
One of the great mysteries surrounding the evolution of the new National Museum of American Jewish History site was solved at a press preview right before the official opening and dedication of NMAJH. For months I had been wondering - how could Patrick Gallagher, the "interpretive designer" who worked so closely with Gwen Goodman, Executive Director Emerita, the board of trustees, and the new CEO Michael Rosenzweig, have translated the vision of Goodman and her board into the amazing new building on Inde
pendence Mall?
I mean - you don't have to be Jewish to love bagels and lox. But do you have to be Jewish to interpret the history of Jews in America into a museum which will speak to all ages, all ethnic groups, all different expressions of Judaism, all the immigrant groups in American society?
Some of the older artifacts in the new museum, like this pile of immigrant suitcases, look outstanding in their new home.
So I asked Gallagher, as he stood next to Goodman, after the press conference. And he answered, "I'm Jewish!" Now at first I thought he was joking - until Goodman confirmed that yes, indeed, Patrick was Jewish. Gallagher had converted to Judaism in his twenties when he was getting married.
And like other people who have studied their way into Judaism, instead of simply having been born into the religion, Gallagher probably knows a lot more about Jewish history, traditions, customs and practices than many of those born Jewish.
Gwen Goodman, Executive Director Emerita of the National Museum of American Jewish History, and Patrick Gallagher, the interpretive designer of the new museum.
For ten years, Goodman and her board worked with Gallagher & Associates, in creating the core exhibition. The new museum has been designed by the internationally acclaimed architectural firm Polshek Partnership Architects.
The grand opening gala will feature performances by Bette Midler and Jerry Seinfeld, along with seminars by academics and a ribbon-cutting featuring Vice President Joe Biden. Nearly one thousand patrons and sponsors will attend the gala concert and dinner, with national figures flying in from around the country.
And as Polshek explained, the beacon atop the glass and terra cotta structure will act as a reflection of the Statue of Liberty's torch, a call to freedom; a reminder of the Eternal LIght which shines in every synagogue around the world; as well as a reflection of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, American icons of freedom, just across the street from the new National Museum of American Jewish History.
The move to Independence Mall included the 19th century statue, now situated on the Caroline and Sidney Kimmel Plaza, which was a gift from the Jewish community of Philadelphia.
A "Women for Onorato" campaign event took place Tuesday night in Lower Merion, at the home of Nancy and Rob Fox, Esq., featuring Mrs. Shelly Onorato and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius. Democratic State Committeewoman Penny Gerber and former Pennsylania state treasurer Robin Wiessman urged the crowd to get out the vote next Tuesday for Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato (D-Pittsburgh) who is running for Governor of Pennsylvania against State Attorney General Tom Corbett (R-Shaler).
Nancy Fox, host of Women for Onorato; Shelly Onorato, wife of Dan Onorato; U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius; and Rob Fox, Esq., co-host.
Dr. Amy Gutmann, President of the University of Pennsylvania, To Receive Philadelphia Public Relations Association's 2010 Gold Medal Award
University President Honored for Increasing Access to Higher Education and for Championing Civic Engagement with Communities both Domestically and Globally
-- Bonnie Squires
The Philadelphia Public Relations Association (PPRA) will honor Dr. Amy Gutmann, President of the University of Pennsylvania, with the organization's 2010 Gold Medal Award on Tuesday, November 9, 2010, 11:30am - 1:30pm at the Loews Philadelphia, Washington Room, 1200 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19107.
Rabbi Brian Nevins-Goldman, the Jewish chaplain at Keystone Hospice in Wyndmoor, began buliding the Sukkah on the grounds of the historically certified residence in Wyndmoor in preparation for the celebration of the holiday of Sukkot. Gil Rosenthal and David Campbell, volunteers, designed and built the Sukkah, and volunteer Lois Blofstein and Rabbi's daughter Corianna assisted them with decorating the Sukkah.
Photo: Sukkah-building on the grounds of Keystone Hospice brought together volunteers and staff members, inclulding (left to right) David Campbell, of Elkins Park; Gil Rosenthal, of Chestnut Hill; Rabbi Brian Nevins-Goldman, Keystone Hospice Jewish chaplain, and his daughter Corianna; and volunteer Lois Blofstein, of Elkins Park. (Bonnie Squires)
President Barak Obama points to Joe Sestak and praises him for his decades of service to the country.
Convention Center Democratic fundraiser
President Barack Obama is getting his groove back, and Joe Sestak, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, was the beneficiary last night. Hundreds of party faithfuls bought $250 tickets to see Obama and Sestak at a huge reception in the Convention center, while well-heeled supporters were escorted into the $1000 VIP reception. Then there was a private dinner for the very highest-priced tickets. While waiting for Obama to land in Philly, a string of luminaries spoke to the crowd, reiterating what has become a disciplined Democratic theme: get out the vote, hold onto the House and the Senate, support Obama's initiatives, and make certain that Pennsylvania ends up with two Democratic Senators after this November's election. Making the point and leading the crowd in energetic chants of "Go, Joe!" were Pat Croce, the ultimate cheerleader; Governor Ed Rendell; Senator Bob Casey; Congressman Bob Brady; and Mayor Michael Nutter.
(Updated text and photos. - promoted by Publisher)
-- Bonnie Squires
President Bill Clinton stumped for his friend Joe Sestak, running for U.S. Senate, at the Golden Slipper Center for Seniors at the Kaiserman JCC (Jewish Community Center) in Wynnewood, his first stop of a very busy day. Clinton praised Sestak for having an economic policy plan which fit with Clinton's philosophy and success.
The appearance at the Jewish community center was a last-minute addition to Clinton's whirlwind Philadelphia schedule as he came to town to honor former British Prime Minister Tony Blair with the Liberty Medal Monday evening. But Clinton, who had campaigned for Sestak when the Congressman first ran for office five years ago , seemed genuinely delighted to speak to an adoring Jewish crowd on behalf of his former military advisor.
Clinton told the audience that each year the Pentagon picks the brightest member of the military to send to the White House as military advisor to the President, and they had selected Joe Sestak to send to him.
Sestak's words to the JCC audience reminded us of Senator Arlen Specter's appearance there, years ago, when Lynn Yeakel was the Democratic contender for U.S. Senate. Specter won that close race. Perhaps Sestak had that in mind as he continued his wooing of the Jewish community. And Clinton proved once again that he is a huge magnet, even with only a few hours' notice.
Clinton gave a detailed analysis of the current economic situation in the country, pointing out the success of his philosophy when his administration turned around a huge deficit and left office with a huge surplus. He credited Sestak with having a detailed plan and vision for creating jobs in three areas which are vital: small business, manufacturing, and the green economy.
Garrett Reisman, with his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, who was the first Jewish member of the space station crew, went up the first time in 2008 where he was able to celebrate Israel's 60th anniversary. Israeli President Shimon Peres gave him the symbol of State of Israel to take with him for the occasion. His second trip was just in May of this year, where he and a fellow astronaut had to do a space walk in order to install an additional module to the space station.
The National Museum of American Jewish History hosted Reisman in a special event which was the first to be convened in the not-yet-completed new site of NMAJH. Reisman, dressed in a flight suit, entranced the crowd of founding members of the museum with his stories of his space flight and one very interesting challenge he encountered in trying to install the new module on the space station.
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— by Bonnie Squires
-- Bonnie Squires
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