I have received some important information from the local outreach chair of the Jewish Braille Institute. Her name is Goldie Witrock and she is very interested in setting up and perhaps establishing a permanent book club at Temple Bat Yam. This, of course, would not take the place of the Rabbi's book reviews but it would be in addition to them. In the meantime, the JBI would provide audio books or large print books to those with low or poor vision, free of charge. Let me tell you a little bit about the Jewish Braille Institute.
The JBI library is an agency serving the visually impaired, the physically handicapped and the blind with audio, large print and braille books free of charge. They offer both Jewish and general interest materials in six languages including magazines, liturgical and cultural materials.
With vision loss, often one feels isolated and can withdraw from normal activities. One out of every 20 people over the age of 60, has diminished vision. Because we are living longer, this figure is growing and it is expected that 14 million people will need help by the year 2030.
I have some material in my office that I am happy to share with anyone who is interested. If you are interested in a book club (in addition to the Rabbi's book reviews), please let me know so that I can schedule Goldie to come and talk to us some Friday night in the fall in the hopes of establishing a more permanent book group.

Have a great summer!

Mazel Tov to Cantor Wendy and Bruce Autenrieth on the birth of their granddaughter, Ruby Mae Autenrieth,  June 30, 2008. Parents, Shauna and Jeff, Ruby Mae and grandparents are all doing well!