Off The Shelf by Doug Holder

The Ibbetson Street Press of Somerville has released a collection of remarks titled: “In Gratitude and Hope,” made to the Boston-area Jewish community by former German Consul to Boston Wolfgang K. Vorwerk. Vorwerk, who was Consul from 2004 to June 2008, was first asked to speak at the annual Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) services at Faneuil Hall in Boston in 2005. During his tenure Vorwerk has reached out to the Jewish community.

Vorwerk made presentations at Temple Israel in Boston, Temple Shalom in Newton, the House of Representatives, State House, Boston, and other forums. He facilitated German/Jewish dialogue and spoke to Holocaust survivors, Nazi resistors, and the general community-at-large. Vorwerk has also helped with the funding of several Holocaust-related initiatives.

In response to requests, Jewish Advocate journalist and editor of the Holocaust anthology ‚ÄúI Refused to Die‚Ķ‚Äù ( Ibbetson Street) Susie Davidson has edited and annotated a collection of the former Consul’s remarks. This 93- page- book includes photos, a foreword by Vorwerk, and a speech by German Chancellor Angela Merkel before the Knesset in Israel.

Vorwerk has displayed much sensitivity to the Jewish community. The Consul is well aware that some  segments of the Jewish community continue to harbor anger towards Germans and Germany. Vorwerk emphasizes past issues do not have to render all parties mute. In his own remarks he recalls his own struggle with the past, and the responsibility left to all Germans today.

The book was given out to Holocaust survivor community members at a June 22 luncheon at Temple Emeth in Chestnut Hill. Vorwerk and Davidson are convinced that that the book will leave behind a deep and lasting historic impression for the community, and many generations to come.

Copies can be purchased through the Ibbetson Street Press: http://www.ibbetsonpress.com or call 617-628-2313.

Ibbetson Street Poetry Award

The winner of the Ibbetson Street Press Poetry Contest award (must be a Massachusetts resident) will receive a $100 cash award, a framed certificate, publication in the literary journal “Ibbetson Street” and a poetry feature in the Lyrical Somerville column of The Somerville News.

To enter send three to five poems, any genre, length, to Doug Holder at 25 School St. Somerville, Mass.. 02143. Entry fee is $10. Cash or check only. Make payable to “Ibbetson Street Press” or “Doug Holder.” The deadline is Sept. 15.

The contest will be judged by Richard Wilhelm poet and arts editor of the Ibbetson Street Press.

The winner will be announced at The Somerville News Writers Festival  on Nov. 22.