April 2021

The Voice of Greater Rhode Island’s Jewish Community

JEWISH

APRIL 2021 | NISAN/IYAR 5781

JEWISHRHODY.ORG

RHODE ISLAND

Spring is back Take some time to smell the flowers

How Rhode Islanders have fared in COVID times

Check out the new activities page for children

Your donations are making a global difference

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JEWISH RHODE ISL AND

EDITOR Fran Ostendorf DESIGN & LAYOUT Alex Foster ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Peter Zeldin pzeldin@jewishallianceri.org 401-421-4111, ext. 160 CONTRIBUTORS Hannah Altman, Cynthia Benjamin, Larry Kessler COLUMNISTS Michael Fink, Geraldine Foster, Patricia Raskin, Rabbi James Rosenberg, Daniel Stieglitz VOLUME XXVIII, ISSUE IV JEWISH RHODE ISLAND

(ISSN number 1539-2104, USPS #465-710) is published monthly except twice in May, August and September.

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID at Providence, R.I. POSTMASTER Send address changes to:

Jewish Rhode Island, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

PUBLISHER

The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, President/CEO Adam Greenman, Chair James Pious, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

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Rhode Island Press Association.

COPY DEADLINES: All news releases,

photographs, etc., must be received on the Wednesday 10 days prior to publication. Submissions may be sent to: editor@jewishallianceri.org.

ADVERTISING: We do not accept

advertisements for pork or shellfish. We do not attest to the kashrut of any product or the legitimacy of advertisers’ claims.

ALL SUBMITTED CONTENT becomes

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Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of Jewish Rhode Island or its publisher, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. We reserve the right to refuse publication and edit submitted content.

ON THE COVER: Tim Cooper via Unsplash

Thoughts that bloom in April LIKE ALL OF YOU, we have just celebrated our second all this. In the last year, a number of Jewish newspapers pandemic Passover. Our seder, once again, was largely in the U.S. and around the world have shut down or gone a Zoom connection. But unlike last year, this year my digital-only. Finances and less advertising played a big extended family was able to gather together in two role. But less access for readers was to blame, too. places, instead of seven separate households.

Like us, many Jewish newspapers are distributed My immediate family, which has grown by one small through synagogues, local shops and community orgaperson this year, gathered at my table. Not everyone was nizations. When those are shuttered, there’s no place to vaccinated, so we chose to keep the seder distribute the paper. small. The extended family is almost Close to home, the 118-year-old Boston Jewish Advoall vaccinated, so they were able to cate did not meet its fundraising goals and suspended gather at a common table. publication in September. They promised to come back At my house, we were six. My digitally, but so far that hasn’t happened. sister hosted five. Past years have Jewish Rhode Island is fortunate. We are partially seen as many as 15 or 16 in my funded by a grant from the Jewish Federation Foundasmall dining room. tion. And the Board of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Last year we cooked via Zoom, Rhode Island has renewed its commitment to us again trading recipes and images of and again since we are a vital part of keeping our comfinished dishes. This year, we munity connected across Rhode Island and southeastreturned to texting and emailing ern Massachusetts. recipes, advice and photos. I’m grateWe are also partially funded by advertising dollars. ful for this, because while I will always We are grateful to the advertisers who have stuck with value Zoom, the novelty of sharing everything via us this year. Many have been with us for years. They screens has waned (see my March column). know that supporting the Jewish community is importAnd while “Dayenu” is especially poignant as we ant. And that connecting with Jewish families and think back to all that our friends, neighbors, commubusinesses is good business, too. nity, nation and world have gone While our print edition, with its through in the past year, we all hope long shelf life and dedicated readThe media has become that the next seder will take place in ership, is our flagship advertising my dining room, crowded together, option, our growing website and newsa punching bag at a with a rousing rendition of “Had Gad letter readership offer additional and Yo” and a spirited search for the afilower-cost options for promoting your time when there are komen that my husband so carefully business or services in 2021. finds a new place to hide even after We also look to the Patron Camfewer reporters and more than 30 years in the same house. paign to help with our budget. Every photographers and their dollar you give to the campaign goes Just as we measure the yearly cycle by the seasons and the holidays we directly toward helping us cover your mission to inform has celebrate, Jewish Rhode Island’s pubcommunity. Please help us to continue lishing cycle is governed by holidays, and expand our coverage. We want never been more vital. themes and activities that happen at you to know what your neighbors are regular times each year. doing, from South County to WoonWith this issue, we acknowledge the coming of spring socket and everywhere in-between. and the start of our annual Patron Campaign, when we You can make your gift using the envelope included ask you, our readers, to help support our community with this paper. There’s also a coupon at the bottom of newspaper. the ad on the back page of the paper that explains how It’s been a tough year for journalism in general. to give. And a button at the top of jewishrhody.org takes Attacks on the media have never been higher, and vital you to a page for online giving. advertising dollars are in short supply as local busiYour gift to the Patron Campaign helps keep the nesses struggle or close, often due to the pandemic. The tradition of the Federation Voice, the Voice-Herald, the media has become a punching bag at a time when there Jewish Voice and now Jewish Rhode Island going in are fewer reporters and photographers and their misRhode Island. sion to inform has never been more vital.

Jewish journalism has certainly not been immune to Fran Ostendorf, Editor

Show us your pets!

Still at home with time on your hands? Has your furry friend become your COVID colleague? Did you adopt a pandemic pet? Take a picture of your faithful companion and send it to us. May is coming up and that means it's time for Jewish Rhode Island's annual pet issue

where we feature photos of your dogs, cats, bunnies, horses, birds and reptiles. Fish are welcome, too!

Deadline for photos is April 21, so send yours in today!

Please remember to include your name, city of residence and your pet's name. Email to editor@

jewishallianceri.org. Or upload your pet photo at jewishrhody.org under "Submit your photo" at the bottom of our website. If you prefer snail mail, Editor, Jewish Rhode Island, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

D'VAR TORAH 5 | CALENDAR 6 | FOOD 8 | COMMUNITY VOICES 9 | OPINION 12 HOME & GARDEN 14 | COMMUNITY 18 | OBITUARIES 26 | BUSINESS 30 THE MISSION OF JEWISH RHODE ISLAND is to communicate Jewish news, ideas and ideals by connecting and giving voice to the diverse views of the Jewish community in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, while adhering to Jewish values and the professional standards of journalism.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

UP FRONT

PHOTO | HANNAH ALTMAN

Cantor Jeff Cornblatt sees new opportunities amid a changing world

BY HANNAH ALTMAN

W

hen Cantor Jeff Cornblatt opens a side door into Congregation B’nai Israel’s expansive synagogue in

Woonsocket, visitors quickly become aware that the building is a gorgeous, confident, midcentury dreamboat, designed by famed architect Samuel Glaser with strong lines and symbolic objects throughout.

Housing the third-oldest continuing independent congregation in Rhode Island, at 120 years old, the synagogue boasts vast stained-glass windows, room for 350 people in the main sanctuary, a hall of Hebrew school classrooms, a sunlit courtyard, two full Kosher kitchens, a dance hall and more; it has the strong bones, art and artifacts to

support a flourishing Jewish community.

But one might also notice the cold. Dwindling in-person attendance over recent years, heightened by the pandemic, keeps the heat off literally and metaphorically in most of the building.

But the most important thing to notice is how starkly Cornblatt’s demeanor contrasts with the cold building.

His warm optimism and easy conversation changes this narrative from one about a fading venue into one about an accessible, inclusive community of faith.

Cornblatt, 68, believes in the power of adaptability, of using the shul as a vessel for sanctuary, empowerment and improvement. And he knows a thing or two about adaptability himself.

Growing up as the grandson of a Russian cantor-trained

grandfather in the town of Brookline, Massachusetts, he craved seeing the world from a different angle, which led him to attend the Quaker school William Penn University, in rural Iowa. After graduating, he worked for Verizon, bought a home in Cumberland and went back to school at Hebrew College, in Brookline.

Cornblatt began attending services at B’nai Israel in 1987, occasionally joining the rabbi on the bimah to daven.

“When they discovered that I had ba’al tefillah skills, I was asked more often,” he said.

“I became a cantor ‘the old-fashioned way,’ ” Cornblatt continued. “I learned from cantors, as well as from traditional ba’alei-tefillah, starting at a very young age. Of course my work at Hebrew College served to deepen, broaden and ‘amplify’ (pun unintended, but apt!) my cantorial work.”

Cornblatt and his wife, Margo, and their son, Rafael, eventually moved from Cumberland to North Andover, Massachusetts. In 1998, Cornblatt began leading services as the cantor at B’nai Israel, where he has long been the sole clergy member. He calls himself the “RWP” – Rabbi Without Papers – of the synagogue.

When the pandemic first hit, Cornblatt said, “I thought [COVID-19] would be the death of the congregation. [But] we probably have a 300% increase in what I call our membership.

Some of them are people who grew up here, they retired to Arizona, and for them it’s handy because they can’t be here, COVID or not. But most of them are people who live around here and are mobile and healthy and could go CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

The Torah guides us toward helping the homeless D' VA

A HOME AND A GARDEN. Sounds biblical. After all, one of the first chapters in the Torah is the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. But where was their home? Only the garden is mentioned.

Sadly, this is a question that applies to many people in our society: Where is their home?

The other day, at a community meeting in Newport, someone pointed out that there are quite a few children living in a Motel 6. Imagine going back to a Motel 6 room after a day in school. This is not a putdown of Motel 6, it’s just not a substitute for a home.

A few minutes later, at that same meeting, someone wrote in the chat that affordable housing might just be Newport’s biggest challenge. Perhaps this is why Cain and Abel couldn’t live in harmony; Adam

R

and Eve tried to be good parents, but without a home, there were too many obstacles.

Noah had the opposite problem. He had a home but no garden.

Stuck on the water, he had no place to relax with nature, to help him RABBI take his MARK MANDEL mind off his problems. No wonder he had a drinking problem after the flood.

The word “home” (bayit) doesn’t start appearing in the Torah until we are introduced to Abraham.

He had a home, but he had to leave it – so he too dealt with the challenges of finding a home.

We just finished celebrating Passover. Little is mentioned in the Haggadah about the idea that after the Exodus, the Jews journeyed through the

TO R A H

Candle lighting times Greater Rhode Island April 2021

wilderness, homeless, for mudic text interprets this 40 years. People don’t like as a house. to talk about homelessness.

For many of us, there is It makes us uncomfortable a perception that Jews in and uneasy.

America have done well But the Torah seems to economically and could not be nudging us to open our possibly experience such eyes to this critical issue. a thing as homelessness.

I have always Unfortubeen struck by nately, that’s ‘the Torah seems a custom that not the case. many synaThe preto be nudging us gogues have dicament of reciting the housing to open our eyes to of Kiddush on instability Friday eveand homethis critical issue’ nings after the lessness prayer service are major is completed. What is the challenges for our society, origin of this custom? Want and the pandemic has only to take a guess? The custom made things worse. of reciting Kiddush on Let us continue to learn Friday nights in synagogue from the Torah how and originated at a time when what each of us can do to there were people who had help alleviate this issue. no home and lived in the Chazak! Be strong! synagogue. The Kiddush was recited for them, since MARC MANDEL is the rabbi that was their home. at the Touro Synagogue, in The Torah instructs us Newport, the oldest synathat a poor person should gogue building in the United be granted “sufficient for States. For more informawhat lacks, according to tion, visit www.tourosynawhat is lacking.” One Talgogue.org.

April 9

7:00 pm

April 16 7:07 pm April 23 7:15 pm April 30 7:23 pm

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

BMW AUDI MERCEDES BENZ PORSCHE VOLKSWAGEN MINI COOPER

BMW AUDI MERCEDES BENZ PORSCHE VOLKSWAGEN MINI COOPER

MERCEDES BENZ VOLKSWAGEN MINI PORSCHE

Cantor Jeff Cornblatt's parents’ photographs on pillows below artist renditions of the B'nai Israel stained glass windows.

ticed geographically, he The world is changing, explained as he walked by Cornblatt says, creating new to shul, but don’t. I didn’t classrooms turned into storopportunities to practice expect them to get interested age spaces, and more import- Judaism in more expansive, in [Zoom services], but they ant that it is being practiced inclusive, fluid and inspiring are.” anywhere. ways.

Cornblatt sees this new “I always remind people mode of gathering as an … that your congregation HANNAH ALTMAN (haltman@ interesting extension of may be on jewishallianceri.org) is the ways to the way content producer for the practice ‘I became a cantor “the out, but Jewish Alliance of Greater Judaism.

Judaism is Rhode Island and a writer for The ability old-fashioned way” ’ not falling Jewish Rhode Island. to gather apart,” he to pray said. “People tend to think together, even online, to what they see immediacknowledge the challenging ately around them in BMW AUDI MERCEDES BENZ VOLKSWAGEN MINI times and then move on to their local synagogue explore other ideas is a way is indicative of Jewry “KNOWLEDGEABLE” to keep Judaism thriving in the world, or even through the pandemic, he in America, or even in said.

“They know the car and how to Rhode Island. And it’s Cornblatt is passionate maintain the car far better not true. than a dealer at a reasonable price.” about the future and its “It is sad if you’re – James S., South Easton, MA, BMW 3 Series potential for multidenomina- attached to a building, tional, egalitarian practices but don’t make the mis“Safety is our number one priority. and services. While B’nai take of thinking JudaWe are capable of providing service Israel is a Conservative shul, ism is dwindling. We without any contact with our customers.”

Cornblatt said he incorpo– Gerry and Denis Moreau tend to sort of intuitively, rates aspects of many Jewish incorrectly, think that.” movements into his services.

For now, he said, B’nai G E R M A N M O T O R S INC “To me, if it’s good, it’s Israel will continue to good, who cares where it hold services and special Sales & Service came from. We have a hodge- events online – and 879 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904 podge here,” he said.

401-272-4266 might continue to do It is less important where Email us at: germanmotorshelp@gmail.com so even after in-person Jewishness is being pracservices resume.

6 | APRIL 2021

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS FOR COMPLETE MONTHLY LISTINGS, VISIT JEWISHRHODY.ORG

Ongoing

Kosher Senior Café and online programming. Cold box lunch home delivery upon request while meal sites are closed due to COVID-19. Two lunches delivered on Mondays and Wednesdays; one lunch delivered on Fridays. Zoom programming includes yoga on Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m.-noon followed by lunch and a guest or discussion from noon-1 p.m. The second Thursday of the month is “Susie’s Corner” with Susie Adler from noon-1 p.m. The third Thursday of the month is a book chat with Neal Drobnis from noon-1 p.m. Suggested donation: $3 per lunch. Information, Neal Drobnis at neal@jfsri.org or 401-678-6464 or 401-331-1244.

Conversational Hebrew Classes via Zoom. Mondays 7-8:15 p.m. thru 5/3. Three levels offered. Partnership of the Jewish Alliance and Temple Emanu-El. No class 4/12. $100 for 8 sessions. Information, Toby Liebowitz at TobyAane@gmail. com.

Project Shoresh “The Path of the Just – The Jewish Waze.” Mondays 8-9 p.m. Journey the path of life using the WAZE of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato in his book "Messilas Yesharim" via Zoom. Free. Information, Noach Karp at rnoachkarp@ gmail.com or 401-429-8244.

Music with Raymond Buttero via Zoom. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 3-4 p.m. Temple Sinai's pianist performs. Link at templesinairi.org. Information, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.

Basic Beginners Hebrew Classes via Zoom. Tuesdays 6:15-7:15 p.m. thru 5/4. Must be able to read and write Hebrew alphabet. Partnership of the Jewish Alliance and Temple Emanu-El. No class 4/13. $100 for 8 sessions. Information, Toby Liebowitz at TobyAane@gmail. com.

Project Shoresh Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program. Sundays 1-2 p.m. thru 5/16. 10-week journey that brings parents and kids together through inspiring classes and hands-on experiences to learn real life skills centered around the Bar or Bat Mitzvah. $199. Information worldwidebarbat.com or Noach Karp at rnoachkarp@gmail.com or 401-429-8244.

Project Shoresh “48 Ways to Wisdom” with Rabbi Naftali Karp. Tuesdays 7:45-8:45 p.m. The Mishnah describes 48 essential tools to acquire Torah. Rav Noach Weinberg taught these as guidelines to success in every facet of life.

Free. Each class self-contained.

Information or RSVP, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-6323165.

Project Shoresh Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program. Tuesdays 8-9 p.m. thru 5/18. 10-week journey that brings parents and kids together through inspiring classes and hands-on experiences to learn real life skills centered around the Bar or Bat Mitzvah. $199. Information worldwidebarbat.com or Noach Karp at rnoachkarp@gmail.com or 401-429-8244.

Project Shoresh Jewish Young Professionals Shmooze. Wednesdays 7:15-8:15 p.m. Mishkon Tfiloh, 203 Summit Ave., Providence.

Shmooze, snack and have a beer.

Free. Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-6323165.

Temple Habonim Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman via Zoom. Thursdays noon-1 p.m. Torah Study on Pirke Avot: A Modern Commentary on Jewish Ethics. Information, Adina Davies at office@templehabonim.org or 401245-6536.

Adult Beginner Hebrew Reading.

Thursdays 5 p.m. thru 5/6.Taught

by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. No prior experience needed. Sessions by Zoom. Possible in-person sessions TBD. Classes and Hebrew Primer Book from the National Jewish Outreach Project are free. Open to all. RSVP, Torat Yisrael office at Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Project Shoresh Parsha Powwow with Rabbi Naftali Karp. Thursdays 7:30-8:15 p.m. Discover via Zoom sessions how topical and relevant the Parsha’s ideas and concepts are. Free. Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail. com or 401-632-3165.

Temple Emanu-El: Delve Deeper: The Jews of Spain. Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m. thru 5/13. Discuss some of the core Jewish texts of Spain, and explore their resonance among Sephardim and Jews the world over. Instructor: Alan Verskin, professor of Islamic & Jewish History at URI. $250. Information, Rabbi Zerin at rzerin@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Parashah HaShavua. Fridays 8:30-9 a.m. (after Z'man Kodesh: Daily Minyan Alternative Experience). Rabbi Alvan Kaunfer leads a study session on highlights from the weekly Torah portion. All welcome. Information and Zoom link, Rabbi Alvan Kaunfer at akaunfer@cox.net or 401-3311616.

Temple Sinai Morning Meditation via Zoom. Fridays 10-10:30 a.m.

Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser leads meditation that includes reflections

on Jewish wisdom and mindfulness. No prior experience required.

Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Jeffrey Goldwasser, will share the story of her family. Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401942-8350.

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Children’s Welcome Shabbat with Song and Story. Fridays 5:30 p.m. except the 3rd Friday of the month 5:15 p.m. With Rabbi Philmus. For Zoom link, email Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Sunday | April 11

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat Songs and Torah Services. Fridays 5:45 p.m.

With Rabbi Philmus. For adults. For Zoom link, email Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Temple Sinai Shabbat Services via Zoom. Fridays 6-7:15 p.m. With Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser and Cantor Deborah Johnson. Link at templesinairi.org. Information, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.

Temple Shalom Kabbalat Shabbat Services In-person and on Zoom.

Fridays 7 p.m. 223 Valley Road, Middletown. With Cantor Fred Scheff. All are welcome. Information and Zoom link, templeshalomrhodeisland.org.

Temple Beth-El Remote Torah Study. Saturdays 9-10 a.m. Zoom led by one of Beth-El's clergy. Information, Kim Campbell at kcampbell@temple-beth-el.org.

Temple Torat Yisrael In-person and Virtual Shabbat Services.

Saturdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. With Rabbi Philmus. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. For Zoom link, email Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Temple Habonim Torah Study via Zoom. Saturdays 10-11 a.m. Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman leads weekly Torah study on current portion.

Information, Adina Davies at office@ templehabonim.org or 401-2456536.

Temple Sinai Torah Study via Zoom. Saturdays 10-11:15 a.m.

Interactive discussion with Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser. Zoom link at templesinairi.org. Information, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.

Temple Sinai Shabbat Torah Reading via Zoom. First and third Saturday of each month 11 a.m.noon. Information, templesinairi.org or dottie at 401-942-8350.

Friday | April 9

Temple Sinai Yom HaShoah Shabbat Service. 6-7 p.m. Service will focus on remembrance of the Holocaust. Guest speaker Monique Goldwasser, mother of Rabbi

Men’s Club “Picnicking & Lox” Fundraiser. 10 a.m.-noon. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Enjoy freshly sliced lox, assorted cream cheese spreads and bagels either to take home or eat picnic-style outside.

Questions or requests after 4/7, Lary Norin at lary@rockspotclimbing.com or 401-524-1356.

Running Around Afula-Gilboa.

Noon. Celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day) via Zoom. Run through the Gilboa nature trail and the streets of Afula with two Israeli running buddies while learning about this Israeli region’s history, culture and people. Supported by the Israel Engagement Fund: A JCC Association of North America Program Accelerator. Information, Larry Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 179.

Temple Beth-El's Sisterhood Film Festival: "Chasing Portraits" Zoom Discussion. 2-4:30 p.m.

Documentary of an American woman who searches for her great-grandfather's paintings that were lost during World War II. Discussion with Mike Fink, professor, Rhode Island School of Design.

Three days prior to event, receive link to watch film. Free. Information, Jenn Thomas at jthomas@ temple-beth-el.org.

Creating Mosaic Candle Holders.

7:30 p.m. Artist Nancy Katz will hold a Zoom program to assemble the mosaic project included in the adult Israel activity boxes. Free. Information, Larry Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 179, or Or Cohen at ocohen@jewishallianceri.org.

Monday | April 12

Core Connects RI and JCDSRI "Kids' Learning, Screen Time and Mental Health During the Pandemic." 7:30 p.m. Join Andrea Katzman, JCDSRI head of school, in virtual conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Englander, regarding helping children and schools promote strong mental health and social relationships during sustained social isolation. Free. Information, coreconnectsri.com or Elissa Felder at CoreConnectsRI@gmail. com or 401-241-9631.

Tuesday | April 13

Little States, Big Innovation, Rhode Island X Israel Monthly Webinar Series. Noon-1 p.m. Interactive session with some of Israel’s

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

CALENDAR startup entrepreneurs. A collaboration of Rhode Island – Israel Collaborative (RIIC), District Hall Providence and RIHub. Information, info@districthallprovidence.org.

Temple Beth-Elders' Virtual Conversation with Artist Boris Bally in his Providence studio.

4-5 p.m. Bally’s work is featured in numerous international exhibitions and publications. Both witty and innovative, his award-winning work employs the use of jeweler's skills on non-precious materials. Free.

Information, Ruby Shalansky at rshalansky@temple-beth-el.org.

Meet the Cast of Netflix Sensation “Fauda” via Zoom. 5:30 p.m.

Fictional story of an Israeli unit commander as he fights terrorists threatening the security of the Jewish State, “Fauda” aims to depict the two-sided story of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Actors Yaakov Zada Daniel and Boaz Konforty will share their experiences.

Information, Larry Katz at lkatz@ jewishallianceri.org or 401-4214111, ext. 179.

Yom HaZikaron: The Power of Jewish Peoplehood Through Personal and Collective Mourning. 8 p.m. A virtual conversation about loss and the healing power of personal and collective mourning shared by Israelis who know the heartache and anguish firsthand.

Solomon Shapiro, a lone soldier in the IDF, will facilitate. Brought to you by the JCC Association of North America. Information, virtualjcc. com.

Wednesday | April 14

Yom HaAtzmaut: Moments of Pride Through Israeli Innovation.

8 p.m. On the eve of Israel’s 73rd independence celebration, take a virtual tour of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation. The program also will spotlight the country’s culture of innovation and its ability to overcome obstacles. Brought to you by the JCC Association of North America. Information, virtualjcc. com.

Thursday | April 15

Yom HaAtzmaut Family Celebration. 4:30 p.m. Celebrate Israel’s Independence Day via Zoom

JFNA Global Celebration of Israel’s 73rd Independence Day. 7-8 p.m. Virtual event will begin with a farewell address by Reuven Rivlin, President of Israel, and include a look back on his legacy. Appearances by Israeli Olympic-gold-medal-hopefuls who are on their way to Tokyo this summer, Jewish athletes from around the world and more.

Free. Open to all. Information, info@ jewishfederations.org.

“Ancient Synagogues in the Land of Israel.” 8 p.m. In this slide-illustrated Zoom lecture, we will discuss the origins of ancient synagogues and their development until the Muslim conquest of the Land of Israel in the early seventh century C.E. Part of Temple Emanu-El’s Virtual Education Weekend, with Scholar-in-Residence Jodi Magness. Open to all. Register, teprov. org/form/HolyLand.

the music that put Israel on the map. This program is supported by the Israel Engagement Fund: A JCC Association of North America Program Accelerator. Information, Larry Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 179.

formed – a devastatingly beautiful portrait of what it means to be a family, regardless of how it is made.

Information, coreconnectsri.com or Elissa Felder at CoreConnectsRI@ gmail.com or 401-241-9631.

Project Shoresh Annual 24-Hour Matching Campaign Event. Noon Sunday-noon Monday. Information, projectshoresh.com or Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401632-3165.

“Judaism and Our Planet: A Lunchtime Conversation with Rabbi Yonaton Neril.” Noon. Celebrate Earth Day via Zoom with the co-author of “Eco Bible,” which discusses how the Bible and religious thinkers have urged stewardship of nature. Learn how to advocate for environmental justice. Brought to you by Lighthouse Kosher and the Jewish Alliance. Information, Rabbi Barry Dolinger at rabbid@ lighthousekosher.org.

Temple Beth-El's Sisterhood Film Festival: "Mamboniks" Zoom Discussion. 2-4:30 p.m. This spirited and entertaining documentary depicts a group of American Jews who enthusiastically embraced the 1950s music and dance of Cuba.

Participate in a discussion with the film’s director Lex Gillespie. Three days prior to event, receive link to watch film. Free. Information, Jenn Thomas at jthomas@temple-beth-el. org.

Wednesday | April 21

Core Connects RI Book Group via Zoom: "Finding Chika." 8 p.m.

Mitch Albom’s novel is a celebration of a girl, her adoptive guardians and the incredible bond they

Thursday | April 22

Temple Sinai “Faith in the Age of COVID: An Interfaith Conversation.” 7 p.m. Temple Sinai and Holy Apostles Catholic Church in Cranston will come together for a Zoom conversation about how we are managing through COVID-19 and how we are addressing the challenges to a faith community through the crisis. Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401942-8350.

Saturday | April 24

Congregation Agudas Achim Torah Study via Zoom. 10-11:15 a.m. Rabbi Alex will lead Torah study on this week's portion. Information, office@agudasma.org or www.agudasma.org.

Wednesday | April 28

Virtual Book Club: “The Dressmaker’s Gift” by Fiona Valpy.

7-8 p.m. In wartime Paris, 1940, three seamstresses face impossible choices when their secret activities put them in danger. Two generations later, the granddaughter of one of them unravels a dark and painful family history. Zoom discussion. No cost to participate; procuring the book is your responsibility Information, Lisa Maybruch at lmaybruch@jewishallianceri.org.

Friday | April 30

Temple Beth-El K'tantan Shabbat on Zoom. 5:30-7 p.m. Worship especially designed for families with very young children. Information, Temple Beth-El office at 401-3316070.

Friday | April 16

Temple Sinai Yom HaAtzmaut Service. 6-7 p.m. Special Shabbat service celebrating Israel's birthday with guest speaker Alana Deluty, a Temple Sinai member who is on a year-long program in Israel. Alana will tell us over Zoom about festivities for the nation's Independence Day. Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Congregation Agudas Achim Kabbalat Shabbat with Rabbi Alex Weissman. 6-7:15 p.m. Welcome Shabbat with songs, prayer and community via Zoom. Information and Zoom link, office@agudasma. org or www.agudasma.org.

Saturday | April 17

Temple Beth-El's Sisterhood “In Your Own Voice” Evening of Song & Story. 7-8:30 p.m. Via Zoom and Facebook. Featuring singer-songwriter Roberta Lamb and other performers. Emceed by Tonya Glantz. Proceeds benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and the Rabbi Leslie Yale Gutterman Religious School. $18 suggested donation. Information, tbesisterhood70@gmail.com.

Sunday | April 18

Celebrating Yom HaAzmaut – The Victory of Israeli Music. 11:30 a.m.

Doron Medalie, a key figure in the Israeli music industry, will relate the story of Israel, the culture and

Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90

Yom HaZikaron Ceremony. 7 p.m. Israeli Lt. Cmdr. Or Cohen, a reserve combat officer in Israel’s navy and Rhode Island’s shlichah, will conduct a Zoom program in both English and Hebrew. Program will feature a few personal stories of those who sacrificed their lives in defending Israel as well as traditional readings, memorial prayers and music. Information, Or Cohen at ocohen@jewishallianceri.org.

with Or Cohen, our community's shlichah (emissary). Sing Israeli songs, play some games, learn about Israel’s rich culture and take part in an interactive, communitywide scavenger hunt. For families with children ages 5-12. Brought to you by PJ Library and the Jewish Alliance. Information, Or Cohen at ocohen@jewishallianceri.org.

This Passover, help us make it possible to celebrate another kind of freedom.

Freedom from a pandemic.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage around the world, there’s reason for hope.

And no country has offered more hope for what life might be like again than Israel, which has led the world in immunizing its people.

Magen David Adom, Israel’s paramedic and Red Cross service, has played a major role in this success. MDA has treated tens of thousands of stricken Israelis, administered Covid tests to more than 4 million, and vaccinated Israel’s most vulnerable populations, including all its nursing home residents.

When you support Magen David Adom, your gift has an immediate impact in helping Israelis — today and every day.

Make a gift today. Pesach kasher v’sameach.

afmda.org/passover

8 | APRIL 2021

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

FOOD

A Lemon Delight for Any Occasion Baked Lemon Donuts Serves: 12

INGREDIENTS 2 cups flour 3/4 cup sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup buttermilk 2 eggs 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon lemon zest

LEMON SUGAR TOPPING: 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 cup butter, melted

DIRECTIONS Heat oven to 350 degrees.

In large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.

Add buttermilk, eggs, butter, lemon juice, vanilla extract and lemon zest. Stir until combined.

Pipe batter into donut pan.

Bake 9 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

To make topping: In bowl, combine sugar with lemon zest. In separate bowl, place melted butter.

Place donut face down in melted butter then face down in lemon sugar topping. Repeat with all donuts.

SWEETS WITH ENHANCED fruit with 2 cups of flour in a mixWhile the donuts are in the flavors are often among the ing bowl. Add sugar, baking oven, add some lemon zest to best of the best when it comes powder and salt then whisk a half-cup of sugar and mix. to family treats. Fruit can everything together.

When they are perfectly add levels of sweet, tart or Then add buttermilk, eggs, baked, dip the tops of each even citrus flavor to all kinds melted butter, lemon juice, one into some melted butter of recipes. then into a lemon-sugar From grapefruit to mixture. ‘there is a variety of fruit berries and lemons, The end result is fluffy there is a variety of that can take your delightful little donuts that are filled fruit that can take your with light and scrumpdelightful desserts to tious lemon flavor and desserts to the next level’ the next level of flavor. covered with lemon sugar For example, these for a hard-to-resist lemvanilla extract and lemon Baked Lemon Donuts are ony treat. zest to the dry ingredients. a unique dessert that can Late night or early mornStir until all ingredients are double as a sweet, fruity ing, these donuts can leave combined to form dough. breakfast. Delicious and you – as well as anyone you Use a piping bag or cut a packed with lemon zest, they choose to share them with – corner off a re-sealable storare coated in a lemon-sugar craving “just one more.” age bag then pipe the dough topping for a burst of lemon into a donut pan and bake at in every bite.

Find more unique recipes at 350 degrees for 9 minutes.

To make this recipe, start Culinary.net.

Our Mission: To improve the quality of life for those we serve.

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(401) 383-1950 www.rahri.com

• Navigate the challenging process of providing care for a loved one.

• From companionship and a little help around the house to 24/7 personal care.

Elder Care Services Providing care all over Rhode Island Call to schedule a free, non-salesy and no obligation family consultation.

We’ll help you create a care plan tailored to your unique needs.

APRIL 2021 | 9

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES

Lag B’Omer through the years

SKE

T

HERE’S HOPING that one or have once been the Biblical more of the customs of Lag Torah Lag B’Omer – most B’Omer fit my past, present of the sacred stories share and planned projects. It’s common origins in the a holiday known for bonseasons and skies and stars fires and weddings and ... we once studied, before haircuts. our gadgetry stole our Once upon a time personal powers of many semesters observation and ago, I asked interpretation, my students the essential at the Rhode poetry of Island School people of the of Design to past, present bring to my and likewise home a log or our ecological a stick for the plans for the fireplace, and MIKE FINK future. they did. In fact, too In my housemany showed up with an hold, the big bonfire of excess of contributions: The Lag B’Omer turns into a flames escaped from the tame little blazing log and hearth, and, to cleanse the kindling on a grate within smoke from the walls, I had the hearth and brick chimto totally repaint the parlor! ney in the parlor with its I like to recall such sofa, loveseat and rocker disasters for the purpose of with upholstered velvet a balance sheet of victories cushions. Or, in the days and defeats in one’s life’s before city vehicles came to pursuits. Especially at fetch old papers and empty night, when cartons, I list the I used to pros and stuff paper cons of each scraps year of my into a steel life, with basket every chapwith open ter along gaps all the way. around and As for the set it all haircut, ablaze – the what with mistakes, the panenvelopes, demic and tissues, the barwhatever ber’s fear might be of beards flammathat they ble. It The haircut in progress. cannot trim made a Lag because of the masking B’Omer-like spectacle with from nose to neck, I therea spiritual dimension. fore rely on my daughter But that was before our to serve as my coiffeur. concern for the fate of the Biweekly. We drive over firmament – the fear of the border between Massafouling the beautiful blue chusetts and Rhode Island skyline above our doomed to her kitchen or garden in domain of human errors Brookline. She willingly, upon the holy land beneath marvelously and cheerfully our wanderings and invaseats me and wraps me in sions of the sacred wildera towel, and then and there ness. sets to work. We both bond So, all our holidays, and enjoy this ritual, and I the “major” ones and can bring back an almost the “minor” ones, have a forgotten holiday within dimension of responsibility, these memories. for the endless tikkun olam, I am by nature and the protective healing and practice a hoarder: I don’t mending of the troubled like to let anything go and world, planet and universe I welcome the coincidences through which we spin and that revive yesteryears. whirl as time goes by.

This may be the secret of all the holidays on the world’s MIKE FINK (mfink33@aol. human calendars. The com) teaches at the Rhode bonfires of May Day may Island School of Design.

CH

BOOK

Behind the Book

a virtual visiting author series May 2, 4:00pm via Zoom Such a Library! A Yiddish Folktale Re-Imagined with Jill Ross Nadler PJ Library and friends invite you to come visit a modern-day library... with a magical librarian!

Stevie craves quiet until Miss Understood, a magical librarian, wreaks havoc in this modernday twist on an old Yiddish folktale.

For more information and to sign up, visit jewishallianceri.org/nadler/ May 9, 7:00pm via Zoom The Berkshires Farm Table Cookbook with Elisa Spungen Bildner & Robert Bildner The Berkshire hills of western Massachusetts are famous for their unique culture, scenic views, and artistic and literary attractions. In addition to the region’s classic landmarks, the Berkshires also boasts an impressive number of family-run farms. Telling the story of family-run agriculture through the language of food, The Berkshires Farm Table Cookbook offers 125 recipes to recall the magic of the Berkshire region.

For more information and to sign up, visit jewishallianceri.org/bildner/ Questions? Contact Lisa Maybruch at lmaybruch@jewishallianceri.org.

Jewish Roots Growing Community Through Art

The “Jewish Roots” community art project is a collection of at-home activities designed to keep people creative and connected while also bringing us together as a community.

The centerpiece of the project is a tree-shaped mosaic designed by renowned Judaica artist Nancy Katz. It will feature glass “gems” created by members of our diverse community, and will be permanently installed in the Dwares JCC lobby.

Just as each piece of a mosaic is vibrant and unique on its own, so too are the people in our community. And when those individual pieces are brought together with common purpose, they’re able to create something much greater and more beautiful.

Join us in building this representation of our amazing community.

Everyone is welcome to participate, and no artistic talent is required.

Learn more and sign up at jewishallianceri.org/jewishroots

For more information, contact Lisa Maybruch at lmaybruch@jewishallianceri.org

10 | APRIL 2021

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES

Spring of 1951 revisited

BY GERALDINE S. FOSTER “MAY YOU LIVE in interesting times,” an apocryphal curse, certainly applies to the months since the election.

Perhaps historians will find these months “interesting,” but personally, I would have preferred boring.

Since current events are not among my themes of choice, I turned to the front pages of four issues of the Rhode Island Jewish Herald from 1951 – March 23, April 6, 13, 20 – for a glimpse of what was news or of importance to the Jewish community 70 years ago. The choice of the year 1951 was entirely random.

The post-World War II era was a time of economic expansion and growth in manufacturing and construction in the United States. The Great Depression and the priority military needs of the war years were now memories. Although American forces were embroiled in the fighting on the Korean Peninsula, the “Forgotten War” did not have a great impact on the civilian economy. Delayed domestic plans could now be implemented.

From the brief snapshot offered by the four front pages, I learned that three major Jewish institutions were on the move in Providence’s East Side, literally as well as figuratively: Temple Beth-El had a new synagogue and school on Orchard Avenue; The Miriam Hospital moved to Summit Avenue after converting and expanding the former home of the Jewish orphanage; and a Jewish Community Center was proposed on Sessions Street. In a real sense, these Jewish organizations were following the Jewish population to the East Side.

The General Jewish Committee – the ancestor of our Jewish Alliance and the Israel Bonds Organization – reached an agreement on the timing of their respective fundraising campaigns.

The tone throughout these articles was one of optimism.

The Jewish community was growing in strength and vitality and looking forward to the future.

The April 20 issue

revealed the details of a celebration marking Israel Independence Day, May 7, at the Veterans Auditorium in Providence. The guest speaker was Goldie Meyerson, later known to the world as Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir.

The Cold War provided the backdrop for a news story about grants-in-aid from the U.S. government.

A grant to Israel received bipartisan sponsorship, but was temporarily held up.

India had already received approval for a grant, but then a remark by a visiting “important Indian” was construed as pro-Communism. It raised the question of whether the grant should be changed to a loan, since India could not be counted on to always vote with the western powers in the United Nations. Israel, on the other hand, was a trusted ally and a democracy and could be trusted to always vote with the U.S. Anti-Semitism was alive and well in the House of Representatives in the person of the “hater-in-chief,” Rep. John Rankin, of Mississippi.

Rankin initiated a campaign to rid the House of all portraits of “aliens,” especially the “ghastly” relief portrait of Maimonides, which he suggested should be replaced with a portrait of Alexander Hamilton.

The New York Post, founded by Hamilton, published a reply to Rankin: “We are sure that the learned Maimonides, philosopher and physician, would welcome the attack of the midget-minded Mississippian. We are equally certain that Alexander Hamilton would have loathed Rankin and spurned his embrace.”

And to conclude on a delicious note, the April 13 issue announced, as part of its front-page news, the arrival of the newest addition to Passover fare: chocolate matzah.

GERALDINE S. FOSTER is a past president of the R.I. Jewish Historical Association.

To comment about this or any RIJHA article, contact the RIJHA office at info@rijha. org or 401-331-1360.

APRIL 2021 | 11

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES

Remembering my father, an everyday hero

BY LARRY KESSLER FEBRUARY, MARCH AND APRIL usually give me multiple opportunities to remember my father, Ike. That’s because his yahrzeit (the 9th of Adar II or Adar I, depending on whether it’s a leap year) is close to two Jewish holidays and an unofficial New England holiday.

So, I remember Ike on his yahrzeit, days before Purim; on the corresponding English anniversary of his death, March 13, 2003; on the eighth day of Passover, when Yizkor is recited; and on opening day of the baseball season.

Growing up, Ike and my mother, Sylvia, were active in the Hebrew School in Dorchester, Massachusetts, that my sister and I attended.

They went the extra mile to make the students feel welcome. Ike did that by taking responsibility for leading the children’s Sabbath services and by blowing the shofar at their High Holy Days services.

But the highlight of my father’s involvement in our Hebrew School, as far as I was concerned, came every May, when Ike would organize and chaperone our annual trip to a Red Sox afternoon game at Fenway Park. Those group outings were a greatly anticipated sign of spring. With games starting at 1:30 or 2 p.m., we’d get dismissed early from regular school, and we’d watch a game from seats that, before the pandemic, cost $60 or more, but which in the early 1960s were classified as unreserved grandstand seats and usually sold for $1.50 or less.

Those outings were in the days before the 1967 Impossible Dream year, when every season was a losing one – but we still enjoyed the games.

Over the years, baseball played a big role in helping my dad and me bond.

Although we only attended one game on opening day, we’d inevitably get to games during April’s school vacation week and in the summer.

And, well into the ’90s, I’d look forward to meeting my dad at Fenway to take in a game.

Ike was born in 1918, when the Spanish flu pandemic started, and he survived the

Great Depression and fought everyday life in the post-war in World War II. Eighteen world. years after his death, I can’t “His description of recithelp but speculate about ing what Ike liked to call the what he would have thought ‘major league’ Yom Kippur about how the country has confessional prayer, the Al been handling the COVID-19 Chet, while depth charges pandemic. were going off all around One thing he’d probably say him, tells a lot about the is that we’ll never be able to man’s character. He not only put the panwas a man demic behind of honor, we’ll never be able us until we but a man demonstrate a who had to put the pandemic deeper sense a healthy of cooperarespect for behind us until we tion, instead God and of letting was prone demonstrate a deeper to talking every state do its own to him in sense of cooperation thing. And difficult he’d tell us to times, not get vaccinated; he let his kids unlike Tevye, the fictional get the polio vaccine because milkman from ‘Fiddler on the it was the right thing to do in Roof.’ ” the late 1950s, just as it’s the Surviving the horrors of right thing to get the COVIDwar helped make Ike a com19 vaccine now. passionate man who underStressing the need to work stood hardship, which is why together is what I’d expect Ike, whose generation beat the Axis powers, would advise Americans in today’s bitterly divided country. He’d say that it would have been nearly impossible for his generation to have won World War II if they had lived in today’s broken society, dominated as it is by social media’s non-stop vitriol and hate.

The accomplishments of Ike’s generation made those veterans a special breed; they did what was expected of them. I reflected on that in the eulogy I gave at his graveside service on March 16, 2003: “Ike was an everyday hero.

He did not win the Congressional Medal of Honor, but he quietly did what his country asked him to do at a time of great need. Of course, that’s precisely what the generation that grew up in the Great Depression did, so it wasn’t surprising that Ike joined the Navy in 1943, became a radioman and spent the rest of the war prowling the North Atlantic on a destroyer escort as the Allies fought their way to victory in Europe.

“Like most World War II veterans, Ike didn’t talk much about his wartime experience, even to his son, but he did occasionally reveal just enough to let you understand why he was never too rattled by the vicissitudes of

he embraced the Jimmy Fund, the Boston Red Sox’ signature charity to raise money for the Dana-Farber cancer center. We couldn’t go to a game at Fenway Park without Ike Isaac "Ike" Kessler and Sylvia Kessler are dropping money pictured in June of 1945 after they were into one of the married. Ike served aboard a destroyer espark’s Jimmy cort in the Navy during World War II. Fund canisters.

Unfortunately, PHOTO | KESSLER FAMILY Ike and I never got Now, 18 years after his to celebrate a Red Sox World passing, Ike’s spirit remains Series victory, after seeing with me. Here’s hoping the them lose the seventh games example of his generation in 1967, 1975 and 1986, when will help us overcome the the bitter Game 6 loss against hardships and tragic losses the New York Mets erased a that we’ve been dealing with Red Sox lead in the bottom of for way too long. the 10th, just one strike away from the elusive title. But LARRY KESSLER (larrythek65@ in 2004, when the Sox broke gmail.com) is a freelance the 86-year-old Curse of the writer based in North AttleBambino, I had no doubt Ike boro. He blogs at larrythekhad played a role. lineup.blogspot.com.

12 | APRIL 2021

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION Difference of opinion Unlike tenured college professors, countries and peoples may be eliminated. The Boycott Divestment, Sanctions movement is about weakening and eliminating Israel. It is not about Palestinian rights. If Professor Tannenwald (“Getting at the root of anti-Semitism,” March 2021) truly cares about Palestinian rights, she should be advocating for the elimination of the totalitarians running Gaza or the kleptocracy of the Palestinian Authority. She should be advocating for the Palestinians in Lebanon and Syria.

The BDS movement is war against Israel. Using the IHRA definition of antisemitism is justified to defend Israel against an existential threat.

IN THE NEWS Yale to offer beginner Yiddish courses to fulfill language requirements JTA – Yale will launch beginner Yiddish classes in the fall that will allow students to fulfill their language requirements, according to the Yale Daily News.

Yiddish studies now offered at the Ivy League university focus on reading for translation and research purposes rather than on spoken Yiddish. The courses did not count toward its language requirement, meaning students had to take them as electives.

The beginner courses, which will start in the fall, will likely develop into levels of increasingly advanced courses in Yiddish as a spoken and written language.

Recent decades have seen an increased interest in learning Yiddish among younger Jews. Just this week Duolingo, the language learning app, added Yiddish to the list of languages it offers on its app , and earlier this year the Yiddish Book Center released a new multimedia Yiddish textbook.

“Most of our peer institutions teach Yiddish language and I’ve long felt that it was time for Yale to do so as well,” Maurice Samuels, chair of Yale’s Judaic Studies program, told the Yale Daily News in an email. “Yale is a center for the study of Jewish history and the Holocaust and Yiddish is central to those disciplines.”

WHEN I CAME TO Barrington in the summer of 1974 to serve as rabbi of Temple Habonim (then called the Barrington Jewish Center), I made it clear at the outset that I do not believe that our Torah is the word of God. From my perspective, God does not have vocal cords and therefore does not speak to us in any language – be it Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek, Latin, King James English … or Hindi or Bantu, for that matter.

Nevertheless, I do find every single word of Torah – and of our entire Hebrew Bible – sacred; for our TANAKH is the record of our ancestors’ ongoing attempt to put into words their lived experience with God. To put it somewhat differently, our Hebrew Bible, our TANAKH, is the written response of generation after generation of our forbears to their sense of God’s presence – and, yes, their sense of God’s absence, “the hiding of God’s face” (hastarat Panim).

At no time do I feel more engaged with Judaism’s quest for God than when I have had the privilege of chanting Torah in the presence of a minyan or a larger group of worshippers. In a manner that is more than metaphor, I am with Abraham when he “hears” God call, “Lech lecha! Go forth from your land, from your birthplace, from your father’s house to the land which

EM

I shall show you.” And I am with Abraham when he challenges God over the fate of the twin cities of Sodom and Gomorrah: “Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?”

And I am with Abraham when he, soul-torn, comes ever so close to slaughtering his own son, Isaac, on RABBI JAMES Mount ROSENBERG

S TO M

E

Farrel I. Klein Providence, R.I.

What I believe and don’t believe about ‘the word of God’ IT S E

LETTER

Moriah.

I am also with Moses when he “hears” God’s mysterious name at the burning bush, “Ehyeh asher Ehyeh,” best translated not as “I AM THAT I AM” but as “I WILL BE WHO I WILL BE,” a God who is the One of infinite possibility.

And I stand with Moses in the presence of God at the peak of Mount Sinai, only to share in Moses’ rage when, upon descending, he first lays eyes on the golden calf. I also share in Moses’ agony of isolation atop Mount Nebo, from where, before he dies, he gazes upon the Promised Land, where his feet shall never tread.

The sections of our biblical library beyond our Torah, Nevi’im (Prophets) and Ketuvim (Writings), continue the record of our people’s search for God – sometimes successful, often unsuccessful, at times interrupted: David, heroic slayer of Goliath, slain by his murderous lust for Beersheba; the prophet Amos demanding

that “justice roll forth like water and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”

I keep on struggling with the author of Job, trying to fight my way out of that ancient paradox: so often it is the righteous who are condemned to a life of constant sorrow, while the wicked appear to live in the garden of earthly delights.

And I often find myself both tormented and comforted by the words of the anonymous psalmist who seems to feel that God is much farther away than the remotest star and yet closer, closer than our deepest self.

Our Torah, then – indeed, our entire TANAKH – is a human document, a product of

the Hebrew Bible is not a record of God’s words to my ancestors but rather a record of my ancestors’ response to their sense of God’s presence.

When I met with the Baptist pastor a few days later, I asked about his congregants’ reaction to my presentation. To be honest, I had suspected that since the church leaned toward a kind of Baptist fundamentalism, many would be unsettled by my theological “liberalism.” So I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I had been well-received.

The minister then made an observation that has stuck with me for more than 40 years: many of his congregants felt that I was a person who believed more deeply than I acknowledged, they were ‘The minister then made while men and women who carried more an observation that has doubt than they could comfortably stuck with me for more admit.

Perhaps I had than 40 years...’ given this group of questioning two millennia of human Christians permission effort. And yet our to be somewhat more Hebrew Bible overflows comfortable with their with a sense of God’s religious doubts – and, presence, a divine presperhaps, over the years ence proclaimed not in the I have given some of language of God but in the my fellow Jews similar language of basar vadam, permission to be just a bit of flesh and blood. more comfortable with Not long after I had their questions and their arrived in Barrington as a doubts. young rabbi, an associate minister at the BarJAMES B. ROSENBERG is a rington Baptist Church rabbi emeritus at Temple invited me to speak with a Habonim, in Barrington. group of his parishioners.

Contact him at rabbiemeriThe focus of my message tus@templehabonim.org. back then was the very theme I am writing about today: my conviction that

Jewish Rhode Island publishes thoughtful and informative contributors’ columns (op-eds of 500 – 800 words) and letters to the edi-

tor (300 words, maximum) on issues of interest to our Jewish community. At our discretion, we may edit pieces for publication or refuse publication. Letters and columns, whether from our regular contributors or from guest columnists, represent the views of the authors; they do not represent the views of Jewish Rhode Island or the Alliance.

APRIL 2021 | 13

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION

Mansour Abbas could hold the key to Israel’s next government

BY BEN SALES JTA – FOLLOWING yet another Israeli election, voters are getting to know an unlikely kingmaker: Mansour Abbas, an Arab-Israeli lawmaker who might be the one to break Israel’s twoyear political stalemate.

Abbas, head of the United Arab List political party, is not the kind of politician who usually wields power in the Jewish state. He’s an Islamist who has more in common ideologically with Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood than with any of Israel’s establishment political parties. But through unorthodox electoral maneuvering, Abbas has set his small party up as the potential swing vote between longtime Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his broad array of sworn opponents.

Here’s a primer on Abbas and his potentially pivotal role in the wake of the latest election.

Who is he?

A dentist by training, Abbas, 46, got involved in political activism while studying at Hebrew University, where he chaired the Arab Students Committee. He later became a leader in the Islamic Movement in Israel, an offshoot of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood that seeks to draw Arab Israelis to Muslim observance and political activism, in part by providing social services like health clinics, schools, mosques and a sports league.

The movement is split into rival Northern and Southern Branches.

Abbas is a member of the Southern Branch.

The Northern Branch was outlawed

by Israel in 2015 based on accusations of extensive financial and organizational ties to Hamas, the militant group governing the Gaza Strip. The group does not recognize Israel’s government and, in the past, organized protesters to harass Jewish visitors to Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, which is revered by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary.

The Northern Branch’s leader, Raed Salah, has been repeatedly prosecuted by Israel for incitement to violence and related crimes. He once said, “The streets of Jerusalem will be purified by the blood of the innocents whose souls were taken by the Israeli occupation soldiers.”

In contrast, Abbas has disavowed violence, and his Southern Branch is relatively moderate. It has fielded a party in Israeli elections for the past 25 years, usually in partnership with another Arab-Israeli slate. Until this year, the party, called the United Arab List (or Raam, as it is referred to in Israel), ran as part of the Joint List, an umbrella Arab-Israeli party that’s currently the third-largest in

Mansour Abbas, head of Israel's Islamic Raam party, speaks during a press conference in the northern city of Nazareth, April 1, 2021. parliament.

(Abbas is not related to longtime Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.)

Why is he influencing the race to form a coalition?

Abbas accrued power this year by breaking from the Joint List and saying he would consider allying with any Israeli politician, left or right, Netanyahu or not, as long as they agreed to advance his communal interests. Arabs make up about a fifth of Israel’s population, but no Israeli Arab-led party has been part of a coalition in the country’s 73-year history.

Abbas’ party gained barely enough votes to enter Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, last week, winning four seats out of 120. But Israel’s political landscape is interminably split, and Netanyahu and his rivals are both looking for as many seats as possible to add to their potential coalitions.

Both camps are courting Abbas as the leader who could deliver them a governing majority.

As of now the math is fluid. The pro- and anti-Netanyahu coalitions are both short of a 61-seat majority.

Another party, the right-wing Yamina, is also positioning itself as a swing vote, meaning that both sides might need both swing parties to form a government. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin has tasked Netanyahu with the job of forming a coalition.

If that person fails, the opportunity falls to someone else.

So after decades in which Israeli Arabs have been excluded from Israel’s leadership, Abbas may be the one who shatters the taboo on forming a joint Jewish-Arab governing coalition.

Who will he support?

Arab-Israelis have long been associated with the country’s political left,

PHOTO | JTA/AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES

but Abbas has remained coy about who he will support as the next prime work with anyone who committed to minister. addressing bread-and-butter issues In a speech Thursday [April 1] in Arab-Israeli society, like combatbroadcast on Israel’s major TV ing crime and providing economic networks and delivered in Hebrew, development. “We need to attempt he instead positioned himself above to bargain and negotiate in order to the fray, urging unity across Israel’s bring about achievements for our ethnic and religious divisions. people,” he told the Jerusalem Post in “I bring a prayer of hope, and of November. uncompromising determination for a What could get in the way? shared life based on mutual respect In the past, Netanyahu has made and true equality,” he said, defining opposing Arab parties – and voters himself as a “man of the Islamic – a piece of his election campaigns.

Movement, a proud Arab and Muslim In 2015, he controversially posted a and a citizen of the state of Israel.” video warning “Our common that Arab-Israe‘Our common denominator is lis (who have the greater than what to vote) were divides us,” he said. denominator is greater right “heading to the The Joint List, polls in droves.” which held 15 seats than what divides us.’

But this year, in the outgoing Abbas’ offer may parliament, is firmly be tempting to Netanyahu, who is on Israel’s political left and is an contending with a corruption trial outspoken critic of Netanyahu and his and may seek whatever support he allies. In 2019 and 2020, when three can get to pass a law giving him earlier rounds of Israeli elections immunity from prosecution until he produced similar stalemates, Netleaves office. But one of Netanyahu’s anyahu’s opponents considered formallies, the far-right Religious Zionism ing a coalition with the Joint List in party, has ruled out working with order to oust the prime minister. But Abbas in any capacity. right-wing members of the anti-NeNetanyahu’s opponents likewise tanyahu camp opposed partnering may not be able to find a way to with Arab Israelis whose views on the include Abbas in a coalition. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict and other anti-Netanyahu parties include some issues diverged from their own. right-wing lawmakers who likeHis party is not centrist when it wise have opposed partnering with comes to the conflict. According to Arab-Israeli parties. the Israel Democracy Institute, the Both sides need every vote they party calls for evacuating Israel’s can get in parliament, and if neither West Bank settlements, establishing side is able to form a coalition, Israel a Palestinian state with a capital in will head to a fifth round of elections, Jerusalem, and giving Palestinian throwing Abbas’ future into the air. refugees the right to return to Israel But should Abbas convince the prime – positions that are anathema to Netminister or his opponents to work anyahu and his right-wing allies. with him, he could decide the future But Abbas emphasized pragmatism of Israel – and break a major barrier in his campaign, saying he would for its largest minority.

14 | APRIL 2021

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

HOME & GARDEN

Spruce Up for Spring Fresh ideas for home upgrades

FAMILY FEATURES — Spring means it's time to start sprucing up your home and garden with a little TLC inside and out. If you're unsure where to begin, consider these tips: Make function a priority. While aesthetic changes may boost value and please the eye, be sure to consider upgrades that make living easier, like organization units that give you more space or upgrades that create additional living space.

Keep budget in mind. Make a list of the projects you'd like to complete and estimate how much each will cost. Use the list to determine what you can afford to complete now.

Do your research. If you'll be making a significant purchase such as a new vacuum or grill, be sure to explore your options, read reviews and shop around for the best prices for greater confidence in what you choose.

Set yourself up for a more enjoyable spring with more home and garden tips at eLivingtoday.com.

Hands Free Spring Cleaning

For busy households, an all in one vacuum and mop robot is a perfect daily companion to help automate spring cleaning.

Enhance the Space Under Your Deck

Optimize the space beneath an elevated deck by adding a drainage system. Designed to capture and divert water, the system protects a deck's substructure from moisture damage while creating dry space

usable for storage or an additional living area. Homeowners can safely add gas lines and wiring to accommodate grills, appliances, ceiling fans, lights and entertainment components to create an outdoor oasis.

Perfect Your Pantry

Cleaning out your pantry is an important step during spring cleaning as it allows you to discard expired items and rethink the space. Start by reorganizing and simplifying the area with ventilated shelving.

Get Ready to Grill

A grill's lifespan depends on many factors, including where and how it is stored and your climate. When it's time to upgrade, you'll have some decisions to make. The biggest is which heating style you prefer: gas, electric or charcoal. Other considerations include the overall size, number of burners and grate quality. Also be sure to compare available features, such as side burners and igniters, which are fairly common, and upgrades like lighting and fuel gauges.

When to Update Home and Garden Goods

Investing in quality products, properly maintaining and storing them all have an impact on how long they'll stay in good working condition. As you tackle spring cleaning this year, take stock of your common home and garden equipment to determine what may need updating.

LAWN MOWER: If your mower needs a repair that exceeds its value, it's time for a replacement. However, there may be other signs that an upgrade is warranted. Rough operation, frequent breakdowns or other indications of faulty performance deserve a second look.

Before you buy new, remember to check your warranty to determine whether repairs might be covered.

VACUUM: Many homeowners discard their used vacuum when it stops picking up dirt and debris as efficiently as it did originally.

Before you move on, be sure to check that performance issues aren't the result of clogged hoses or a filter than needs cleaning or replacing. A belt may also be worn or need adjusting. Other signs it may be time to replace the vacuum include damaged or frayed cords, motor issues like overheating or making strange noises.

GRILL: A grill may last anywhere from 5-15 years, depending on the quality of the materials and how it is maintained. However, it's common to have to replace parts along the way. Signs you may need a new grill include a firebox (the main enclosure) with cracks, rust or holes and burners that distribute heat unevenly. Damaged grates can affect even grilling if they're warped, and if they're flaky or rusted, they can contaminate food.

If you're not able to replace the grates, or any other essential part, including hoses and connectors for a gas grill, you'll be better off replacing the unit.

PHOTOS | GETTY IMAGES

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HOME & GARDEN

Creating sacred spaces in our homes

HEA

TH

special meaning to me, and what I don’t need or use. It’s a tough process, but a healing one. I didn’t realize how attached I had become to my things, even when I didn’t use them.

As went through everything, I decided to offer things I really like but no longer use to friends who I knew would enjoy them and give them a new PATRICIA home.

I kept what I RASKIN absolutely love and use on a regular basis, as well as those precious things with great memories. If it was beautiful but had a negative memory, I passed it on.

It was freeing to let go of so much, and having less clutter meant I could now see and appreciate the items I kept.

I also found old family pictures in storage, put them in frames and hung them on a wall where I can see them every day. The photos speak to my family roots, heritage and values.

What we surround ourselves with speaks to our values. That includes what we have, see, appreciate and honor in our homes and in our gardens. I think making our home and office space a “sacred place” brings us home in our hearts.

Y L I VI

NG

L

I FOUND AN ARTICLE that really spoke to me at Chabad. org called “Making Our Home a Sanctuary,” by psychiatrist Yetta Krinsky.

Dr. Krinsky wrote about the concept of sanctuary in space being fundamental to Judaism.

“We have been told that since the destruction of the Holy Temple, G-d’s presence rests within each of us and within every Jewish home,” she wrote. “How important it is, then, that our homes be true sanctuaries of light, warmth and peace: that we allow into them only people with whom we feel safe, and things which are congruent with the values we want to instill in our children.”

The article continues, “The Torah encourages us to ensure that our every action is congruent with our inner values, and that it will lead to a place of greater health and healing for us and for the whole world. We all have the inborn capacity to create such sacred spaces, to establish clear boundaries and to choose wisely. Indeed, by doing so we play our part in transforming this world into the true sanctuary our Creator intends it to be.”

I recently moved, and I am so appreciating the concept of creating sacred spaces in our home.

During the process of moving, I was faced with looking at what I really love and has

PATRICIA RASKIN, owner of Raskin Resources Productions, is a media host, coach and award-winning radio

producer and business owner.

She is on the board of directors of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence. She is a recipient of the Providence Business News 2020 Leaders and Achievers award.

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"Kaporos," Archival Pigment Print, Sitra Achra, 2014

RISD grad’s photos explore queer Jewry

BY HANNAH ALTMAN

S

hterna Goldbloom’s photographic artwork builds bridges between

two worlds that seem to have a sizable distance between them: queer identity and Hasidic Jewish identity.

Goldbloom, of Chicago, received a master of fine arts, in photography, from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2019. It was during this time in Providence that they developed their thesis project, called “Feygeles.” This Yiddish word means little bird, but it is also used as a slur for a homosexual.

Goldbloom’s series “expresses both the queerness of these Jews and their flight,” they said in a recent Zoom interview.

Serving as photographic proof of their existence, pride and experiences, the project is made up of photographs and accompanying interviews with queer Jews. With an emphasis on models who were raised ultra-Orthodox, and who live as adults outside of that community, the images and text are presented on handmade Torah-shaped scrolls. The project explores ways to delve into and connect history and family traditions with sexuality and gender.

Goldbloom’s experience with the subject matter is the guiding light for the project; they grew up in a Hasidic community. When their mother got divorced, and later came out as gay, while remaining in the Orthodox community, it unearthed the complications of holding these identities simultaneously. Goldbloom started to explore these dynamics of gender and sexuality in a series of self-portrait photographs called “Sitra Achra (I Am the Other).”

The project explores people described in Kabbalah texts as in the realm of “evil” and “unholy” – a kind of “other,” such as women and gays who do not fit into traditional forms of femininity.

“Women who go to college and want to have babies outside of marriage and without husbands” fit into this category, Goldbloom said.

They continued, “Sitra achra is me. Now, as CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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"Ikh Bin De Sitra Achra," Archival Pigment Print, Sitra Achra 2015 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 I sit on the other side, I try and find a way to see the two sides of myself together, to create a conversation between tradition and heresy.”

The images portray mundane scenes of life, but also a dichotomy between good and bad, holy and unholy – a search for the balance between traditional and contemporary representations of being.

Goldbloom said “Feygeles” was a natural extension of their self-portraits; as the project developed, the work grew to include portraits of other Jews with similar experi-

ences of Orthodoxy and queerness.

Stretched across two wooden dowels that are modeled after the atzei chaim (the wooden poles around which the Torah is wrapped), and printed on fabric, each image in “Feygeles” is included in a larger scroll encompassing different themes of queerness and Judaism: Dedication Scroll, Anonymous Scroll, Transition Scroll, Possibility Scroll and Glossary Scroll. They show varying stages in people’s environments and experiences.

Visually, the images are calm in their portrayals of the difficulties

"Rochel, Mary, & Baby," Archival Pigment Print, Feygeles, 2018

and complexities of negotiating Jewish and LGBT+ identities. Both are communities that emphasize living in exile, outside of the mainstream, and yet in these works, the participants feel at home in their skin.

Both communities also express themselves through physical dress; Orthodox Jews often wear wigs, headscarves, kippot, tzitzit and modest clothes, while those in the LGBT+ community often have piercings and tattoos and wear highly individualistic fashions.

Each image and the accompanying text is warm, open and accept-

ing. The project as a whole aims to demonstrate that there are many gorgeous, overlapping ways to be a Jew and a member of the LGBT+ community.

For more on Goldbloom’s work, go to https://www.shternagoldbloom.com.

HANNAH ALTMAN (haltman@ jewishallianceri.org) is the content producer for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and writes for Jewish Rhode Island.

"Anonymous," Archival Pigment Print, Feygeles, 2018

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

OBITUARIES 26 | BUSINESS 30

Early Fall River upbringing influenced director’s latest movie

BY MEL YOKEN

N

ancy Cooperstein Charney, born, raised and schooled in Fall River, is an award-winning

movie and theater director/producer.

Cooperstein Charney, 81, is married to actor Jordan Charney. The couple have two children and five grandchildren and live in New York City.

The following interview was conducted in late February 2021, and has been lightly edited.

How long did it take to make your latest documentary, “Who’s Next?” and why did you make it?

It took from 2016 to 2019, from genesis to finish. The idea started to germinate when [former President] Trump started running for president. I felt that he had a very good chance of winning, and it made me very frightened as to what that could mean for the country.

Trump had lived and worked in New York his whole life. I knew people who

had had very bad and dishonest dealings with him, and I knew of his dislike for the black community. I worried about his stand on all minorities – mine, of course, included. I started to have a dream – more like a nightmare – that I hadn’t had since I was a child.

Did your upbringing and education contribute to this film?

Yes, my upbringing and education in Fall River was a major contributor to this film. One of my earliest memories, which has stayed with me until now, happened at lunchtime one day. I was standing in front of my father’s office (he was a doctor) in a poor neighborhood. Our family lived upstairs, my dad’s office was downstairs. The kids from the Borden School, who happened to be patients of my fathers, were coming home for lunch. Three of the little girls stopped in front of where I was standing, behind the gate of my house.

They stopped, and in a singsong manner started to repeat, “You killed Jesus, you killed God.” Since I knew I hadn’t done that, wasn’t guilty of killing anyone, and they wouldn’t stop – they were having

a wonderful time – I ran crying into my father’s office – something I wasn’t allowed to do when he was seeing patients. My father wanted to know what had made me so upset, and when I told him what had happened, he apologized to his patients, took my hand, and together we walked to the local church.

I had never seen my father so upset.

When we got there, my father demanded to talk to the priest. “He is busy,” said the secretary. My father said, “interrupt him” (my dad treated all the patients who lived in the Catholic Home in Fall River for free).

The priest came downstairs and wanted to know what the problem was.

He could see how upset my father was, so he invited us upstairs to his office.

Once we were sitting down, my father asked me to tell the priest what had just happened. After I finished, my father said, as I remember so vividly, “and the reason that they said that to Nancy was because your religion teaches that. You teach that in your catechism, in your prayers, in your services, and I demand you to take it back.”

“You take it back,” he said again, CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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COMMUNITY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 looking into the eyes of the priest. “Grace (my mom), Nancy and I will be at your services on Sunday and I need for you to take it back.”

On Sunday, at services, the priest did. He told the congregation that Nancy, then 3½, did not kill Jesus.

The priest then talked about how good my father was – treating people in the neighborhood for free if they couldn’t afford to pay, how he got up at 5 each morning to go to the Catholic Home to treat everyone there for free; that my father, his wife and daughter Nancy were good people. There were many good Jews living in Fall River. No doubt all of them.

That’s as far as he could go. But it was something, now, wasn’t it ....

That [provided motivation to make “Who’s Next?”], along with the air-raid drills with curtains closed, members from the Jewish community who had escaped from Russia during the pogroms gathering in our home at night to speak quietly and desperately about their sons who were off in Germany fighting, my father waking up with the nightmares of having seen a member of his family killed as they escaped from Russia to America, that it was happening again in his lifetime and that we Jews were all at risk yet again. Yes, all of that, and no doubt more, contributed to who I have become and thus my need to make this film.

Were you constantly on the set during the filming?

Since I did all the interviews, yes, I was there every moment. Together, with the director of photography, Luke Geissbuhler, we created the ambience and the planning of the shots. During the editing process, Jay Keuper, the editor, went off to do a first cut of each of the sections of the film and then he and I sat for endless days, weeks, months putting it together.

At what moment did you know the documentary was finished?

The moment that it became clear to me that I had enough material and the right material for this film … was when I came up with the idea of the Muslim march. If you watch the film, which is available on Amazon Prime, you will see that march at the end of the film and you will understand why I knew that I had come to the end.

CELEBRATING

14 YEARS IN RHODE ISLAND!

Your favorite directors?

I favor foreign directors, Ingmar Bergman, Federico Fellini and Agnes Varda.

Michael Apted’s series of documentary films following a group of English children, from age 7, at seven-year intervals. They are now 56. The series is brilliant, and I recommend it.

What advice do you have for future filmmakers?

If you have something you are dying to say, if you have things burning in you that you feel need a visual space in order to say them, then go to school (I did not) and learn everything you can about the technical ways that you can use to make your vision come to life. Don’t let anyone disabuse you of your need.

Go for it.

If, instead, you are doing this because you want to be rich and famous, find another job.

What’s next?

My next project is what I call “My Jew Project,” which I have been thinking about doing for many years … and now is the time. I have done much research, and now it is time to put pen to paper. I am energized just thinking about it.

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COMMUNITY

These Rhode Islanders are making the best of COVID times

BY FRAN OSTENDORF IN APRIL 2020, the Rhode Island Jewish community, like the rest of the state, country and world, was just beginning to figure out what the COVID-19 pandemic looked like and meant close to home. We all had a new vocabulary: masks, social distancing, novel coronavirus, Zoom and lockdown.

That April and May, we asked some community members to write about the impact of the coronavirus on their lives. They wrote poignant essays about the big changes they made to accommodate what few people thought would still be around a year later.

Recently, we checked in with some of the people we wrote about early in 2020 to

see how they’ve fared this past year. Here are some of their comments: Adam Smith, director of Shalom Memorial Chapel in Cranston, has certainly seen the impact of COVID19 up close and in person.

Last April, he wrote about how the pandemic had changed life for him and his family for our feature, The Conversation. Here’s what he had to say in a recent phone interview: “A couple of us [in his family] are fully vaccinated and starting to feel out how it would be to go out into the world again.

“The last year has been a bit nerve-wracking and it’s been heart-breaking. I’m glad we could be there for the families going through difficult times and help them. We’ve done so many

funerals.”

At the beginning of the pandemic, the state limit on gathering outdoors was five, and Smith and his staff had to help families work through the trauma of deciding who could attend a loved one’s funeral. Now, outdoor attendance is practically limitless.

“I think Zoom and livestreaming funerals will be normalized,” he said. “Two years ago, people would ask if they could record a funeral. Now it’s normal, and that’s a positive.

People can’t always get to a funeral.”

Smith’s family has enjoyed learning new skills this year, including baking and crafts. But, he added, “It’s been difficult not seeing friends.”

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“2020 would have been my 25th high school reunion [he graduated from Toll Gate High School, in Warwick] and we had to cancel it. That’s just another reminder that when we have opportunities to interact safely, we should.

“People should get vaccinated when they can.

“Be careful. Look out for others. I don’t want people coming into my place [the funeral home] before their time.”

Ian Weiner was a senior journalism and communications major at the University of Rhode Island when he wrote about the impact of COVID-19 for our June 2020 issue.

When the campus shut down, just before the end of the semester, he moved back to his family’s home in Severna Park, Maryland, graduated, and started looking for a job.

He has since landed in the Communications Office of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, in Washington, D.C. When contacted via email, here’s what Weiner had to say: “Over the past year, I have truly come to appreciate how close-knit my family is. It has been very nice having my family around, especially this past winter, when we were all stuck at home. I have really enjoyed their company and the time we’ve been able to spend together, especially since I know that once I move out, it will most likely be for good and I will not see them too often.

“One thing that I may not have anticipated is how

the pandemic has really made me appreciate things from my childhood. One example of this is reading.

When I was younger, I used to read tons and tons of books, but when I got into high school and college, I almost stopped that completely. I’ve started reading again. It’s not only a way for me to take a break from screen time and technology, but also something that I definitely missed.

“One thing that has surprised me is how well my entire family has been able to adapt. Even though we could not be together for birthdays and the holidays, we still felt very connected.

We spoke on the phone very often and got on Zoom together often too.

“Nearly all of my relatives live around me, and we used to see each other for almost all birthdays and holidays. It has been difficult not being able to see them in person, but I’m also grateful for how well everyone is doing and the positive outlook we have when we gather virtually.”

Cooper Sock, 16, was pictured on our September High Holy Days cover, with his shofar, at Prospect Park in Providence. We recently talked via Zoom to Cooper and his mother, Sharon, the advancement and membership coordinator at Providence’s Temple Emanu-El, about the impact of this past year on their family.

“It’s crazy that we are still not back to normal life. We’ve tried to see the positive side a lot and compensate for the bad times with the good times,” CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

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COMMUNITY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Sarah Mack, the senior rabbi at Temple Cooper said.

Beth-El, has helped to Cooper’s parents, guide the Providence Sharon and Garrett, congregation from both had the virus in in-person programming the fall. Sharon still and worship to a totally suffers some after-efvirtual synagogue fects, including fatigue experience that now and breathing issues, includes robust probut said she is getting gramming and Zoom better every day. worship on a regular Garrett was infected basis. She conveyed her first, and Sharon thoughts in an email: started to feel sick just “This moment disas he emerged from tills everything down quarantine. to its most essential “There was such a parts. This is true of stigma at the time,” she Bar and Bat Mitzvah said. “If you got COVID, celebrations, baby it was because you were namings and brit milah careless.” [circumcision], as well But that wasn’t the as grieving and loss. case – the Socks scruThat means that as a pulously followed the congregation we have guidelines, and neither had to learn to Cooper nor the ritual ‘I stayed in use his brothers, differently to Reese, a high help transschool senior, my room for port people and Kevin, a through these college fresha month’ lifecycle man, got sick. moments. The “I stayed in my room emotional power of a for a month” when his Zoom Bar Mitzvah or parents were sick, says a Zoom shivah can be Cooper, a high school very moving. sophomore.

“I think the last year The family has gotten has emphasized to each closer since everyone of us just how vulnerahas been home together. ble life is. You can’t put And keeping a positive that back easily. It has attitude has been key. generated a new and When the weather lasting awareness of was nice, the family our shared humanity. took walks every day, With that comes a great and they are looking amount of gratitude for forward to walking each and every day and again now that the renewed compassion for weather is getting betour shared and individter. Sharon and Cooper ual struggles. also have been baking “It has also shown cookies and lasagna as us that quick change part of programs to help won’t break Jewish people in the commulife. I hope it serves as nity. a reminder that we can Cooper said he’s man- innovate and transform aged to stay connected in the future.” with school friends, “I think we are even though some days looking forward with he learns from home, great hope at the ways and connected online in which we can be with camp and BBYO together in person – friends. He’s remained while maintaining active as president of accessibility through the Providence chapter the digital means that of BBYO, and he’s lookwe never would have ing forward to going to dreamed possible before Israel this summer with this past year.”

Camp JORI. “Kids and parents FRAN OSTENDORF (foshave had to learn to be tendorf@jewishallianresilient,” Sharon said. ceri.org) is the editor of “You try to make the Jewish Rhode Island. best of it. That’s always been our motto. There’s something to be said for having to figure it out and deal with the hard times.”

Arts Emanu-El to screen 2 movies about Italy during WWII

Footage from the movie ‘Holy Silence’ Father John LaFarge, a Jesuit priest and associate editor of America magazine. Pius XI ARTS EMANU-EL and the requested that LaFarge draft Temple Emanu-El Providence an encyclical to declare that Jewish Film Festival will Jews were entitled to the same present two documentaries rights and about Italy protections as during World everyone else.

War II, “Holy The draft of Silence” and the LaFarge “Syndrome encyclical was K,” in April. never made “Holy public.

Silence” Watching looks at the “Holy Silence” papacy of will give Pius XI and you a broad his succesunderstandsor, Pius XII, ing of events, and whether Dr. Adriano Ossicini with papal and ‘Syndrome K’ director Stephen they could otherwise, have done Edwards in Rome in 2018. that occurred anything during WWII. The film will to stop the deportation and be followed by a screening of murder of 6 million Jews. the fascinating documentary The film also examines how “Syndrome K,” narrated Americans reacted to the by actor Ray Nazis, includLiotta, which ing efforts by tells the true Catholics in but little-known this country to story of three sway the pope Italian doctors to act. who rescued We learn that Jews during Pius XI grew the Nazi occuincreasingly pation of Rome. alarmed over The doctors the treatment saved the lives of Jews in of many Jews Germany. In by convincing an effort to the Nazis that address the certain Jewsituation, he ish patients in went to the their hospital, Vatican secrelocated near tary of state, the Vatican, were infected then Cardinal Eugenio with a horrific, deadly, highly Pacelli (the future Pope Pius contagious – and completely XII), and enlisted the help of

BY PAMELA HANZEL

fictitious – disease that they called Syndrome K. “Syndrome K” features interviews with survivors and descendants of survivors, including 98-year-old Adriano Ossicini, the last surviving doctor, and Pietro Borromeo, the son of the head doctor at the hospital. The film also uses reenactments and archival footage to powerfully depict courage and sacrifice in the face of Nazi horrors.

“Holy Silence” can be seen on the Eventive site from Saturday, April 17, at 8:15 p.m., until Wednesday, April 21, at 11:59 p.m. “Syndrome K” will be shown on Eventive from Thursday, April 22, at 9 a.m., until Monday, April 26, at 11:59 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Eventive site, watch.eventive.org/teprov, and there is a special offer of one ticket for both movies for $15.

Arts Emanu-El and the Temple Emanu-El Providence Jewish Film Festival are also planning a Q-and-A on Zoom in conjunction with the movies. To get details on the Q-and-A, which is tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of Sunday, April 25, call the Temple Emanu-El office at (401) 331-1616, or email pamhanzel@cox.net. Please leave your contact information (name, email and cellphone number).

PAMELA HANZEL is the chairwoman of Arts Emanu-El.

22 | APRIL 2021

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

Alliance to track anti-Semitic incidents in R.I., with community’s help

BY STEPHANIE HAGUE IN RESPONSE to community concerns about rising anti-Semitic incidents, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island has launched a webbased community anti-Semitism tracker.

If you experience or witness an anti-Semitic incident, the Alliance encourages you to report it to law enforcement, when appropriate, and then use the tracker, at https:// www.jewishallianceri.org/ report-it, to report hate speech, discrimination, harassment, threats, assaults and hate-group activity. All information reported is confidential.

The Alliance is committed to finding long-lasting and impactful ways to mitigate hatred of all kinds, which requires robust data on what

is happening in Rhode Island.

This data will help pinpoint geographic areas or communities where the Alliance want to address rising hate crimes.

The tracker grew out of the Alliance’s strategic planning process in 2019, when community members expressed increasing concerns about security and anti-Semitism.

Law enforcement and Jewish agencies also occasionally reported incidents, but it was difficult to know how many incidents were not reported.

With the new tracker, the Alliance hopes to fully capture the magnitude and breadth of these incidents, make the information accessible to our community, assist and follow-up when necessary, engage with law enforcement when needed, and collect data to share with

state and national partners that track hate crimes.

Hate crimes and anti-Semitic incidents have been steadily rising in the United States over the past several years. On a national level, we have witnessed violence targeting the Jewish community, as well as an increase in targeted violence and harassment across marginalized populations. Information released by the FBI in November 2020 shows a 7% increase in religion-based hate crimes, with 953 reports of crimes targeting Jews and Jewish institutions in 2020, up from 835 the year prior.

STEPHANIE HAGUE is the director of community relations at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. She can be reached at shague@jewishallianceri.org.

TAKE ACTION: REPORT an INCIDENT www.jewishallianceri.org/report-it/ At the Jewish Alliance, we believe all people should be treated fairly and justly. If you have experienced or witnessed an incident of anti-Semitism or extremism, please report it. Anti-Semitic activity includes overt acts or expressions of anti-Jewish bigotry and hostility. Many incidents are not crimes but are still considered anti-Semitic and should be reported.

This initiative is meant to help track anti-Semitic incidents in the state of Rhode Island. Experiencing any type of anti-Semitism may be traumatic for you or your loved ones. If you need additional support, please contact Jewish Collaborative Services at 401.331.1244 for guidance.

www.jewishallianceri.org/report-it/ 401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | jewishallianceri.org

AJC CEO talks about anti-Semitism and the power of coalitions were trapped [in Europe].

Now, they aren’t trapped.

On April 1, David Harris, The Jews will leave if necessary, but what will CEO of the American Jewhappen to the Europeans ish Committee, spoke on [from a human-rights “The State of Antisemitism standpoint]?” today and AJC’s Global Harris said that what he Jewish Advocacy.” He covdidn’t foresee was the jump ered rising anti-Semitism, coalition building and what of anti-Semitism to the United States, where it has the AJC is doing to combat joined with global hate and other forms prejudice. of what he The talk was called “poithe first of the sonous bias.”

2021 Judah He said Touro Lecture the key to Series, sponfighting all sored by the this bias is Touro Synacoalition gogue Founbuilding. dation. Close “We seek to to 150 people build a world participated respectin the Zoom David Harris ful of all event. human beings,” he said.

Harris, who has been at “Jews can’t do it alone and the helm of the AJC since shouldn’t.

1990, gave a brief history of “Our strategy is to weave the rise of anti-Semitism in together as many groups as Europe since 2000. He also possible who believe that described his sabbatical an attack on one group is year in Switzerland with an attack on all. We are his family and how they building communities saw first-hand the rising of conscience with those tide of anti-Jewish and who share our belief in anti-Israeli sentiment. the American democratic “It was a wonderful year, experiment in pluralism.” but we saw up-close the Harris went on to discuss rebirth of anti-Semitism,” some of the important coahe said. “We [also] spent a lition building he’s particilot of time in France. We pated in, including a trip to began to hear the alarm Auschwitz with 62 Muslim bells in Paris … largely world leaders, work on from the left.” interreligious challenges At the time, the focus with leaders in the Catholic was on accusations such as that the Israeli government Church and support of the Asian-American commupracticed apartheid. nity.

The AJC is uniquely “The goal is not to fight qualified to speak to the yesterday’s battles, but to problems that Harris saw. seize tomorrow’s opportuFounded in 1906, it was the nities,” he said. original American Jewish The next presentation in experiment in political the 2021 Judah Touro Lecadvocacy, Harris told the ture Series will take place group. Its first cause was on May 13, when National bringing pressure to stop Trust for Historic Preserthe pogroms in Russia in vation Vice President and the early 1900s.

Senior Counsel Thompson According to Harris, the M. Mayes will speak on his AJC has 24 offices across book “Why Old Places Matthe U.S., seven in Europe, ter.” For more information, three in Asia and one in go to tourosynagogue.org.

Latin America.

He said the AJC went to FRAN OSTENDORF (fostenthe European governments dorf@jewishallianceri. after his sabbatical and org) is the editor of Jewish told them that this was not Rhode Island. just a Jewish problem, but a European problem.

“In the 1930s, the Jews

BY FRAN OSTENDORF

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COMMUNITY

New England teens join in virtual BBYO convention

Jack Elice with during the BBYO International Convention.

BY JACK ELICE ON THE WEEKEND of Feb. 13, over 2,000 Jewish teens met on a virtual platform for the BBYO International Convention 2021. Forty-three of those teens came from the BBYO New England Region, made up of Rhode Island, Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire.

The convention provided many opportunities for participants to get to know Jewish teens from around the world, along with appearances by famous guest speakers, including NBA Hall of Famer Grant Hill, who spoke about social justice; “Unorthodox” actor Amit Rahav, who talked about his meaningful experience playing Yanky Shapiro, a character who was much more invested in Judaism than he was; and actor Rebel Wilson discussing body positivity and her experience playing a Nazi in the Holocaust movie “Jojo Rabbit.”

Other speakers included comedian Pete Davidson, chef Michael Solomonov, singer-songwriter Kesha, Israeli basketball star Deni Avdija, Israeli singer Netta Barzilai and former Alabama Sen. Doug Jones.

The convention also featured numerous Jewish experiences, such as Shabbat services, discussions with Holocaust survivors and rabbi-led conversa-

tions on a variety of topics.

I didn’t really know what to expect from my first BBYO International Convention, but even though it was virtual I still thoroughly enjoyed the programs and was able to meet people from all around the world, and to make many new friends.

I was lucky enough to be chosen as a community-building captain for the convention, one of six teens from around the country who spearheaded the “virtual roommate” experience. During the planning, some of the other community-building captains became some of my closest friends.

With over 20,000 members from over 50 countries, BBYO is the largest pluralistic Jewish youth group in the world.

It is a place for people to meet and bond with Jewish teens in eighth through 12th grade from around the world, to explore and strengthen their Jewish identity and to gain leadership skills.

For me, BBYO has become a major part of my life, and has given me some of my greatest memories while helping me become my best self.

JACK ELICE, 16, attends the Moses Brown School, in Providence. He is a BBYO New England Region member and serves as a regional vice president of Judaism, Community Service, and Israel Experiences.

Celebrate Israel’s April holidays right here at home

BY LARRY KATZ RHODE ISLANDERS can join Israelis and Jews worldwide in celebrating Yom Ha’Zikaron, Israeli remembrance day, April 13-14, and Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Israeli independence day, April 14-15, with a range of activities.

Whether you like walking tours or enjoy the many songs Israel has submitted to the Eurovision contest over the years, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island has an event or activity for you.

As I am writing, I have just received photos showing the meeting of two teams of filmmakers who are filming different aspects of our “sister city” area of Afula-Gilboa, Israel, thanks to a grant from the Israel Engagement Fund, a program accelerator of the Jewish Community Center Association. The Alliance’s partner JCCs in the Connecticut cities of New Haven and Stamford are sharing the grant.

One team is walking through the Afula and Gilboa region, collecting the stories of the sites and people they meet. For instance, there are stories of the family that started the falafel places; Tnuat Tarbut, a collective of activist artists; the shuk/ market; and Afula’s synagogue and chief rabbi.

The other team is filming short vignettes depicting the ethnic diversity of the area, including Arab villages and their socioeconomic realities.

Among the sites the filmmakers are exploring are the palace of the biblical Queen Jezebel and Muslim fortresses. The filmmakers will also focus on Orde Wingate, a British soldier who helped train what became the Haganah.

“Running Around Afula-Gibloa” premieres on Sunday, April 11, at noon, on Virtual J, the JCC Association’s answer to Netflix and YouTube.

Programs on April 13 will explore defending Israel, from both the fictional and non-fictional perspectives. At 5:30 p.m.,

the Alliance will host a Zoom chat with two of the stars of the hit Netflix show “Fauda.” Yaakov Zada Daniel and Boaz Konforty will discuss their journeys as actors, the significance of Jews and Arabs collaborating on the series, and the impact of the series on both communities.

Daniel served in Shayetet 13, an elite unit of Israel’s navy, and later transferred to the undercover Duvdevan Unit, an elite counterterrorism unit, which became particularly relevant for his role as Eli in “Fauda.” Before becoming an actor, Konforty was a tank commander.

He can also be seen on the Netflix limited series “The Spy,” about Elie Cohen.

For those unfamiliar with “Fauda,” a short documentary about the first season may be viewed on the landing page of the registration link.

At 7 p.m. on April 13, Israeli Lt. Cmdr. Or Cohen, a reserve combat officer in Israel’s navy and Rhode Island’s shalichah, will conduct a Zoom program for Yom Ha’Zikaron, featuring the personal stories of a few of the people who sacrificed their lives in defending Israel, as well as traditional readings, memorial prayers and music.

On Thursday, April 15, in celebration of Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Clover Food Lab, of Boston, will deliver its Mediterranean boxes for pickup at five sites in Rhode Island – the Alliance’s Dwares JCC and synagogues in Barrington, Cranston, East Greenwich and Newport. Clover is under the Kosher supervision of Rabbi Barry Dolinger, of Congregation Beth Sholom, in Providence, and is a cult-favorite restaurant chain founded by environmentalist Ayr Muir. It has expanded from a food truck in 2008 to 12 restaurants serving thousands daily in the greater Boston area. It sources an unprecedented amount of its menu from local farmers. Place orders at https://bit.ly/2OX8ifp

by Tuesday, April 13, at

5 p.m. A two-person box provides three meals each, for a total of six meals. A four-person box provides a dozen meals.

At 4:30 p.m. on April 15, Or Cohen will host a Yom Ha’Atzmaut program for families, co-sponsored

by PJ Library. The Zoom program includes family entertainment and music.

At 8 p.m. on April 15, Jodi Magness, a professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, will speak about “Ancient Synagogues in the Land of Israel” in a program co-sponsored by Temple Emanu-El, of Providence, and the Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island. In this slide-illustrated lecture, Magness will discuss the origins of ancient synagogues and their development until the Muslim conquest of Israel in the early 7th century C.E. The celebrations will conclude on April 18 at 11:30 a.m. with “The Victory of Israeli Music: From ‘Hallelujah’ to ‘Toy.’ ” This program will feature world-famous Israeli songwriter, composer and artistic director Doron Medalie, who will discuss the evolving story of Israeli culture and answer these vital questions: How does culture reflect Israeli society and how do you create change via culture?

Can culture change a narrative?

You may register for any of the above programs at www.jewishallianceri.org/ Israel-Days.

The JCC Association will also hold the following programs on Virtual J at virtualjcc.com/channel/ daysofmemory, all at 8 p.m.: April 13: “Yom Ha’Zikaron: The Power of Jewish Peoplehood Through Personal and Collective Mourning” April 14: “Yom Ha’Atzmaut: Moments of Pride Through Israeli Innovation” LARRY KATZ (lkatz@ jewishallianceri.org) is director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

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COMMUNITY

Your donations help Jews in R.I. – and across the globe

BY JEWISH RHODE ISLAND STAFF IN “PIRKEI AVOT,” it states, “Your house should be open wide, and you should make the poor members of your household.”

For many of us, our inclination is to help our families, our neighbors and our friends. Over the last year, the Jewish community, through the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, has done so much to help local partners with support of basic human

needs, security and programs that build community.

But the Alliance’s annual community campaign also supports several overseas organizations that help the most vulnerable: individuals living in isolation and poverty; groups of people who are dealing with racism; and communities that are at risk due to political upheaval. Funding from the Alliance helps children and young adults have a bright future, gives their parents the tools to pro-

vide for them, and helps older adults live out their final years in dignity.

The Alliance’s annual community campaign supports organizations such as the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and the Ethiopian National Project (ENP). These organizations provide for the needs of individuals in Israel and over 70 countries worldwide.

Here are just some of the things the Alliance’s overseas partners are accomplishing:

The JDC is a lead agency supporting the

needs of elderly Jewish people in the former Soviet Union, many of whom are Holocaust survivors. Many live on pensions providing less than $2 a day. Without the JDC, they would not have enough money for food, medicine and other

basic needs. Last year, the JDC brought food to 49,000 elderly people in the former Soviet Union, brought medication/medical services to 29,000, and provided over 22 million hours of home care.

teem and leadership skills.

Last year, 5,100 Ethiopian immigrant teens participated in 28 locations around Israel.

The ENP helps Ethiopian immigrants

munity centers and other places in nations around the world, through JAFI’s Security Assistance Fund.

According to Richard Glucksman, Alliance board philanthropy vice chair, and Janet Goldman, Alliance board community development vice chair, donations to the Alliance’s annual community campaign supports the work of these organizations in 70 countries, as well as hundreds of thousands of people and millions of hours of services. They thank you for your support.

To learn more about the work the Alliance is doing overseas, contact Sara Masri at 401-421-4111, ext.

223.

acclimate to living in Israel. Many of these immigrants come to Israel with little formal education, making it difficult to find a job and support their families.

The majority of Ethiopian immigrant families live in low-income areas with poor schools. Many of the children have trouble succeeding in school and enter adulthood with academic deficits. In one of ENP’s main programs, SPACE (School Performance and Community Empowerment), they provide daily academic support and a hot lunch, as well as working with the students on self-es-

Funding safety measures at synagogues, com-

At the Jewish Alliance, we work to find new and creative ways of meeting people’s needs in an ever changing landscape.

In these uncertain times when so many people are finding themselves in need of assistance – many of them for the first time – we are providing programs that help the most vulnerable among us, both locally and globally.

With your support, we keep people safe and cared for. With your increased commitment to the Annual Community Campaign, you will provide continuity and the expanded services that people so desperately need right now.

We appreciate your past support and hope you’ll consider increasing your gift.

2021 ANNUAL COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN JEWISHALLIANCERI.ORG/DONATE

HERE FOR GOOD. 401 Elmgrove Avenue • Providence, RI 02906 • 401.421.4111 • jewishallianceri.org

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COMMUNITY

Project Shoresh Purim program offered timeless message PHOTO | TEMPLE SINAI

A Sweet Pesach Special gifts for Purim from Project Shoresh, left, picked up by community members, right.

ON FEB. 21, the Sunday before Purim, the Project Shoresh family was treated to a fascinating lecture by Harry Rothenberg Esq. Harry shared how we can utilize the many messages in the Purim story and apply them to our lives today. Esther was afraid to approach King Aha-

suerus, on behalf of the Jewish nation, without being summoned and Mordechai encouraged her to not delay but rather to act.

The message? Sometimes in our lives, we need to just act and not wait until it might be too late. Sometimes we need to make real-life

PHOTO | PROJECT SHORESH

adjustments, whether in our relationships with our families, in our community or in our commitment to Judaism. Rothenberg emphasized that it is important to make these changes with joy as these are the changes that are sure to be everlasting. The hope was to

take the messages into Pesach and beyond. For more information about Project Shoresh, visit us online at projectshoresh.com or email at nkarp@projectshoresh. com.

TEMPLE SINAI volunteers Ellie Wasser, left, and Sandy Maldavir coordinated the delivery of chocolate gifts to all of the Cranston congregation’s members in the week before Passover. They are shown holding the gifts and accompanying notes. The Temple also extends many thanks to Susan Sklar who acquired the fair-trade chocolates and to all the drivers who made the deliveries.

It was a huge success.

Submitted by Project Shoresh

Kids’ Activities Which Path?

Word Scramble

Find your books and get to the picnic blanket.

Which paths should you take?

These words have been mixed up! Rearrange the letters to figure out what these words spell.

Let’s have some fun…

START

1

Spring is here—the sun is shining and the flowers are blooming. It’s a perfect time to get outside and have a reading picnic! Grab a few good books, a blanket, and head out with whomever you like to read with the most!

2

3

_______ ENADRIG

4

______ FMYAIL ____________ TSOGEENTHERS

PJ Library is a program of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island in partnership with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation.

_______ UDIESTO Picnic

Books

____ ZYCO Answers: (Reading, Family, Togetherness, Outside, Cozy)

Since we can’t yet celebrate in person, we thought we’d honor 14 years of PJ Library in Rhode Island with an activity page!

Answers: (2, 4)

To learn more about PJ Library, visit jewishallianceri.org/pj-library/ or contact Lyndsey Ursillo at lursillo@jewishallianceri.org.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

OBITUARIES Jeannette Bornstein, 86 CLEARWATER, FLA. – Jeannette Bornstein died Jan. 30 in Clearwater. She was the wife of the late Morton Bornstein. Born in Antwerp, Belgium, Jeannette was the daughter of the late Ignace and Rose (Stern) Berkovic and the foster daughter of Edith (Gershman) and Benjamin Matusow. She had lived in Clearwater since 2005, previously living in Warren.

Jeannette was a member of the Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg.

She was dedicated to speaking regularly to students, teachers and the general public with her sister, Marie Silverman, in the hopes that something like the Holocaust would never happen again.

She was on the advisory committee to the Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services Holocaust Survivor Program and involved in their food pantry. Jeannette belonged to Temple Emanu-El in Providence.

Jeannette’s working life spanned many decades at Miller’s Delicatessen with Morty, David, Larry and many of the Bornstein and Borenstein family. She took solace and joy in painting, crochet and gourmet cooking.

She was the mother of David Bornstein and his

wife, Byrna, of Westwood, Massachusetts, and the late Larry Bornstein. She was the sister of Marie Silverman of Clearwater, Florida, and her late husband, Melvin, and sister-in-law of Stanley Bornstein and his wife, Ginny, of Syosset, New York.

She was the grandmother of Sheera and her husband, Brian, Elana, and Jaclyn. She was the great-grandmother of Charlotte. Aunt Jeannette was also loved by her niece and nephews Renee (Hank), Marc (Matt), Stephen and their families.

Contributions may be made to The Florida Holocaust Museum, 55 5th St. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 or Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services Holocaust Survivor Program, 14041 Icot Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33760.

Shirley Cohn, 96 WARWICK, R.I. – Shirley E. (Davidson) Cohn passed away on March 17. She was the wife of the late Jerome B. Cohn for 38 years.

Born in New London, Connecticut, a daughter of the late David and Anna Davidson, she was a resident of Warwick, previously living in Hilton Head, South Carolina,

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She was the mother of Susan Sweeney and her husband, Edward, of South Kingstown, Lawrence Cohn and his wife, Mary, of Menlo Park, California, and the late Roberta Nahigian (Ralph).

She was the grandmother of Laurie Deignan (Kevin), Rebecca Sardinskas (Gregory) and Francesca Cohn.

She was the “Nanny Shirley” to her great-grandchildren Allyson, Kelly, Noah, Grace, Christopher and Matthew.

She was the sister of the late Kenneth Davidson, Geraldine Greenberg, Murial Rosenthal, Irene Wolfe and Rosalind Tarlow. She was an adored aunt and a dear friend.

During WWII, Shirley contributed to the war effort as a “Rosie the Riveter,” manufacturing guns at Colt in Hartford every evening after her day job. She waited for Jerry Cohn during the war and married him when he returned. Shirley and Jerry owned Triangle Confectionary in Pawtucket before retiring and moving to California.

In California, they opened Puckers and served frozen lemonade to residents of Berkeley. Shirley was fondly known as “Mrs. Puckers” to all the children who visited Fairyland, USA in Oakland, California. After her husband’s death, she moved back to the East Coast. Shirley worked for The Hartford, in Simsbury, Connecticut, and The Chamber of Commerce in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Shirley had an adventurous spirit. She loved flying in a biplane to a nearby glacier and whitewater rafting in Alaska. Shirley taught herself to knit and crafted many beautiful family heirlooms that are worn and enjoyed by family members. She enjoyed the opera and spending time at Bonnet Shores every summer with family.

The family is especially grateful to Joanne Griffith, Maureen Sullivan, Home Instead Senior Care and the staff at Brentwood Nursing Home.

Robert Diner, 88 JOHNSTON, R.I. – Robert M. Diner died March 16, at home. He was the husband of the late Blanche J. (Pauline) Diner. Born in Brooklyn, New York, a son of the

late Abraham and Anna (Miller) Diner, he had lived in Chepachet since January, previously living in Johnston.

He was a firefighter for Providence, retiring 42 years ago. Robert was a Korean Conflict Air Force veteran, serving stateside. He was a member of the Sampson Air Force Base Veterans Association. He also sat on the board of the Greater Providence Hebrew Free Loan, formerly serving as its vice president.

He was the father of James Ponte and his wife, Theresa, of Chepachet, Richard Ponte and his wife, Kathleen, of Arden, North Carolina, Michael Diner and his wife, Pamela, of Johnston, Susan Harris and her husband, Todd, of Johnston, and the late Donna Howcroft, Robert Ponte, John Ponte and Neil Diner. He was the brother of Harriet Levi, of Portland, Maine, Arlene Hoyle, of Coventry, and the late Frances Licker. He was the grandfather of 18, great-grandfather of 15 and great-great-grandfather of three.

Contributions may be made to Beacon Hospice, 1 Catamore Blvd., East Providence, RI 02914.

Daniel Garr, 90 VERO BEACH, FLA. – Daniel M. Garr died April 3 at VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach. He was the beloved husband of Jane (Lowenthal) Garr of Vero Beach for 64 years.

Born in Providence, a son of the late Bernard and Fannie (Cohen) Garr, he had lived in Florida since 1995, previously living in Rochester, New York.

He was the owner of the former Greene Douglas Maintenance Supply Industry, Inc., retiring 35 years ago.

Dan was a Brown University graduate. He sat on several boards, including the Boy Scouts of America, Children’s Home Society, Monroe Community College in Rochester, and orchestras in Rochester and Vero Beach.

He was the devoted father of David Garr and his former wife, Patricia, of Lake Worth, Florida, Jeffrey Garr and his wife, Tania, of Naples, Florida, Susan Giancola and her husband, Dave, of Fairport, New York, and Nancy Peixoto and her husband, Joe, of North Dighton, Massachusetts. He was the dear brother of Herma Levine of Boca Raton, Florida. He was

the loving grandfather of Megan and husband, Sean, Jack, Jackie, and Tim, David Jr. and wife Shannon, Lauren and husband Jamie, Christopher and wife Angela, and Julianne and husband Dan. Cherished great-grandfather of Colson Peixoto.

Contributions in his memory may be made to VNA Hospice House, 901 37th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Edwin Gozonsky, 90 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Edwin Gozonsky died on March 20. He was the fifth of six children of Archie and Ida Halperin Gozonsky of Laconia, New Hampshire.

He graduated from Laconia High School in 1948, where he was valedictorian, winner of the Merit Cup and a successful debater. In 1952, he graduated from Yale University, where he continued his successful debating career, made lifelong friends, and served as his class agent for 20 years. He then went to Harvard Business School, graduating in 1954. He served as an enlisted man in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958 in the U.S. and Panama. He spent his career as an institutional stockbroker in Boston for several large firms ultimately becoming Vice President of Investments at Paine Webber.

Over the years into retirement, Ed gave philanthropic donations to many causes, often seeking out smaller organizations that were off the beaten path and needed more support.

In 1965, he married Dorothy Adelson of Providence; they were married for 53 years until her death in 2018.

He was a loving and supportive stepfather to her two daughters, Judith and Diane.

He is predeceased by his wife, his stepdaughter, Diane Goodman, and his sister and four brothers. He is survived by his stepdaughter, Judith Golias, her two sons, Andrew and Peter, Diane's two children, Steven and Sandra, and three step great-grandchildren. He was a loving brother to his two surviving sistersin-law, Paula Izeman and Dee Gozonsky.

He was very close to his nieces, Lynne Hodgman and Joan Chamberlain, and to his nephew, Eric Freidman. His many other nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews will all miss him.

The Gozonsky family would like to express their gratitude to Penina Posner, who cared for Ed over the last several years,

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OBITUARIES Contributions in his memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Leonard Greenberg, 90 WARWICK, R.I. – Leonard H. Greenberg died March 14. He was the husband of the late Arline (Broman) Greenberg. Born in Providence, a son of the late Max and Fay (Glickman) Greenberg, he lived in Warwick for 35 years, after living in Cromwell, Connecticut, Dover, New Hampshire and Providence.

He was a sales representative at United Overton, Globe Distribution and Benny’s, retiring in 1996. Leonard was a Korean Conflict Army veteran, serving in Okinawa, Japan. He graduated from Hope High School, class of ’48. Leonard was a member of Touro Fraternal Association.

He was the father of Harvey Greenberg (Judy) of Concord, New Hampshire, Michael Greenberg (Annemarie) of Manchester, Connecticut, and Robert Greenberg (Laura) of Cromwell, Connecticut; dear brother of Deborah Gordon of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, David Greenberg of Cranston and the late Philip Greenberg of Warwick; grandfather of Cherie Defina (Tom), Laura Main (Shawn), Heidi Greenberg, Joshua Greenberg (Christina), Seth Greenberg, Alyssa Sutfin (Dan), Katie Augelli (Michael), Lauren Greenberg, Jillian Greenberg and Mindy Greenberg; great-grandfather of Ryan, Jenna, Colin, Gavin, Annabelle, Annalise, Anthony, Ethan, Leah, Eve and Caleb; and dear friend of Miriam Gauthier.

Contributions may be made to MARC Inc., Seeing Abilities Not Disabilities, 151 Sheldon Road, Manchester, CT 06042 or RI Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub, 25 Fairbanks St., Providence, RI 02908.

Ruth Greenberg, 91 COVENTRY, R.I. – Ruth Greenberg passed away on March 24. Born in the Bronx, New York, on April 21, she was the daughter of Gertrude and Barney Maldavir as well as the older sister of her predeceased brothers Gerald and Melvyn. Ruth went to Pembroke College and had plans to become an attorney.

This dream took a detour and instead she married Isadore (Archie) and raised a family.

They had many wonderful years together traveling, socializing constantly with friends and family, and living life to the fullest.

Ruth was mother to Paul Greenberg (Jane Soares) and Cheryl Goldberg (Neal) and grandma to Jennifer (Matt), Melissa, Alyssa (Jon), Evan (Jess), and Alex. She is the great-grandma of Isaiah, Anya, Corbin, Colby, Mason, Ilana and Noah.

Ruth was one to try most anything once (including roller coasters), was the consummate Jewish mother, a yummy cook and gracious hostess, did beautiful needlework and knitting, had a great eye for interior design and fashion, a voracious reader and did not let any Sudoku or crossword puzzle stump her! Her advice was often spot-on, and she appreciated good conversation about any topic.

Contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

Florence Hoffman, 96 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Florence Rubinstein Hoffman, formerly of Huntington Woods, Michigan, died March 15. She was the wife of the late Dr. Louis Hoffman for 66 years. She is survived by four children: Andrew, his wife Wes Brown and their children Samantha, Jacob and Zachary; Karen and her daughter Natalie; Judy, her husband Alan Baumgarten and children Nathan (Ivana) and Alexandra (fiancée Sam Cates); Anne, her husband Evan Cohen and their children Sarah, Laura and Dana; and her great-grandchildren Oskar and Maks Baumgarten. She was pre-deceased by her brother David.

She was born in Detroit to Benjamin and Sarah Rubinstein. She attended Central High and received BA and MA degrees from Wayne State University. She taught English at Northern High School for three years and then stopped to raise her family. She later returned to Wayne to obtain a Master’s in Social Work, and she subsequently worked for many years at the Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit.

After Louis died, she moved to Providence to be close to her daughter Anne. There, she was cared for at Wingate Assisted Living on the East Side by her caregivers: Lori Dias, Cindy Francois, Tolu Oladele and Funke Williams.

She loved poetry, political discussions, cooking and Yiddishkeit.

Contributions can be made to the Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit jfsdetroit. org.

Doris Jacober 98 WORCESTER, MASS. – Doris A. Jacober passed away March 17. She was the wife of the late Henry (Hank) Jacober. Born in Salem, Massachusetts, she was a daughter of the late Mortimer and Lena (Schwalb) Stein.

Doris loved dancing, golf and flowers. She was beautiful on the dance floor with Hank, proud as a peacock of her hole-in-one, a gifted perfectionist with the beautiful floral arrangements she did for many of the family's occasions. She volunteered for the intellectually disabled, and for those hospitalized.

She was a born leader, the chair of many of her children's school organizations, a Den mother, and past president and lifelong member of Hadassah. Doris reached out constantly to her many friends from all generations, some lifelong, others more recent. Until the end, she had her phone book by her side and made her calls.

She is survived by her son Mark Jacober and his wife, Carol, formerly of Rhode Island; sister Minette Zitowitz; grandchildren Leah Beard and her husband, David, Emily Jacober and her fiancé, Jon, and Ian Jacober and his wife, Francesca; and great-grandchildren Norah and Mae Beard. She was the mother of the late Gary Jacober and the sister of the late Leo Stein.

Contributions may be made to Hadassah at www.hadassah.org/donate.

Gladys Jacober, 91 NARRAGANSETT, R.I. – Gladys H. (Talan) Jacober passed away on March 6. She was the wife of the late Harold B. Jacober for 56 years.

Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Morris and Bessie (Botvin) Talan, she was a resident of Narragansett for 44 years, previously living in Cranston.

Gladys was a member of Temple Beth-El and Congregation Beth David. She was a graduate of Hope High School.

She was the mother of Alan Jacober and his wife, Jane, of Providence, and her late children Jeffrey Jacober and his wife, Karen, and Ellen H. Jacober. She was the grandmother of David Jacober, Michael (Kennon) Jacober, Suzanne (Evan) Walke, Andrew Jacober and the late Eric Jacober. She was the

great-grandmother of Jules, Rozsa, Olivia and Scarlett.

She was the sister of the late Herbert Talan and the late Evelyn Zimberg. She was an adored aunt and a dear friend to many. Gladys and the late George Feldman found a renewed happiness together in their later years.

Gladys was a businesswoman well ahead of her time. She co-founded Alpine Ski Shops and built this business by her late husband’s side. Although her role was often behind the scenes, she would also work 12-hour days on the sales floor, in her clogs, always welcoming people into “her second home.”

She was one of the most respected apparel buyers in the ski industry, and she was known for her keen eye for fashion and quality until her retirement in 1988.

Her home was her sanctuary, and she loved her gardens, the ocean and, most of all, spending time with family and friends. Her home was always open to help anyone she could who may have had some issues finding their way in life. A great listener, Gladys would also tell it like it is.

The family is grateful to her caregivers Silvia, Martha, Erin, Barbara and Mary.

Contributions may be made to Congregation Beth David, 102 Kingstown Road, Narragansett, RI 02882 or a charity of your choice.

Claire Krasner, 94 WARWICK, R.I. – Claire Krasner passed away on March 13 at Kent County Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Harry and Molly (Gergel) Gornstein.

She was a lifelong resident of Rhode Island, graduating

from Hope High School. She attended Rhode Island State College, where she majored in home economics and was a member of the Sigma Delta Tau fraternity. There she met Harold to whom she was married for 70 years. Claire and Harold lived independently until they were in their 90s.

He predeceased her by five months. She is also predeceased by three siblings: Nathan, Sidney and Sheldon.

Claire is survived by her sons Jay and his spouse Sharon Bell, Edward and his spouse Abigail Potter, and four grandchildren, Elliot, Laurel, Samuel and Simon, as well as nephews, nieces and their children.

Claire’s life was unassuming and revolved around her husband, her family and her friends. She was an invincible and uncompromising mahjong player. She loved cats, sticky candy and shows at the Warwick Tent. She was a vicious bargain seeker and delighted in hitting the trifecta of clearance markdown, coupon and senior discount. But her greatest pleasure in life was simple – soaking up the sun, whether in Narragansett, Florida or the Caribbean.

Contributions may be made to the Rhode Island Food Bank at rifoodbank.org.

Minnie Kurtzer, 97 WARWICK, R.I. – Minnie Kurtzer died March 18 at Sunny View Nursing Home.

She was the wife of the late Morris Kurtzer. Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Samuel and Sarah (Oldstone) Strauss, she had lived in Warwick for 24 years, previously living in Providence. She worked as a consumer interviewer and

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

OBITUARIES was a familiar figure in the mall or Newport Creamery where she often dined on her favorite hotdogs.

She was the mother of Sharon Kurtzer of Warwick and the late Ellen Kurtzer-White.

She was the sister of the late Charles, Bessie, Bertha, Jessie, Lillian and Harriet.

She was the grandmother of Hannah, Dena, Mirah and the late Elijah. She was the great grandmother of Eli. Contributions may be made to Louis & Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry, 1165 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904.

Rita Nash, 78 EAST GREENWICH, R.I. – Rita R. (Berger) Nash, of East Greenwich, passed away on March 25 at Scalabrini Villa. She was the wife of Samuel Nash.

Born in Providence, she was a daughter of the late David and Martha (Berk) Berger.

Besides her husband, she is survived by two children, Wendy Breene of Cranston and Todd A. Nash of Atlanta, Georgia; three grandsons, Sean Nash and Zachary and Maxwell Breene; and two sisters, Lillian Berger and Sheila Del Pico. She was the sister of the late William Berger.

Ruth Saltzman, 94 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Ruth Robinson Saltzman died March 21 in Providence.

Devoted wife of the late Dr. Abraham Saltzman for over 63 years, Ruth was born in Providence as the only child of Charles and Louise Tager Robinson. Although Ruth was initially a serious piano student, she discovered her lifelong passion for the harp while attending the New England Music Camp. After graduating from Hope High School and one semester at Pembroke College, she moved to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming a professional musician. Ruth was the sole female musician to travel the country with the original production of the musical “South Pacific” and played for the “Ice Capades.”

Ruth met Abe, a medical resident, in New York City in 1947; seven months later they married and over the course of eight years had four children. She is survived by her children Beth and her husband, Michael Aaronson, of Lynnfield, Massachusetts; Charles and his wife, Ingrid Nygaard, of Salt Lake City, Utah; David and his wife, Beth Barovick, of Wayland, Massachusetts; and John and his wife, Deborah Lang Saltzman, of Newton, Massachusetts.

After death of her parents in 1954, Ruth moved back

to Providence where she continued her musical career.

She performed for over 30 years as the principal harpist with the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. As a respected teacher and soloist, Ruth played for many decades with flutist Donna Heiken and flutist John Curran. She loved performing and felt fortunate to still play “gigs” into her late 80s.

In addition to raising four children. Ruth’s loves were gardening, reading, spending time with her dogs, and traveling. Most of all, she adored meeting people and conversation. She regularly invited acquaintances to come over for lunch or tea, after which they would often become devoted friends.

An only child, Ruth delighted in having a large family and cherished her time with them, especially during many family trips and an annual family vacation to Cape Cod. She reveled in the details of her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s lives. She was grandmother to 11: Daniel (Rachel), Benjamin (Heidi), and Jonathan (Ariagne) Aaronson; Steven, Ilanna (Daniel Williams), Andrew, Hanna (Nathan Davidson), Rachel, Erik, Julia, and Jeffrey Saltzman; and great-grandmother to six: Abigail, William, Charlotte, Caroline, Aviva and Lorenzo Aaronson.

Contributions may be made to the Providence Animal Rescue League, the Rochambeau Library of Providence, or HopeHealth’s Hospice.

Edmund Silverman, 81 SANTA MONICA, CALIF. – Edmund Jordan Silverman died April 2 at St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica. He was the beloved husband for 42 years to the late Marsha (Gerzog) Silverman and devoted father of three. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Samuel Morris and Bessie (Israel) Silverman.

Ed attended the University of Rhode Island, before enlisting into the US Army in 1963. He served in Kitzingen, Germany in the Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry. Their Motto, “Can Do!” After the Army, he graduated from RIC, Cum Laude, with a degree in Mathematics in 1967.

Edmund lived in Los Angeles, California, for over 30 years, previously in South Florida. He was a

systems analyst, working as a renowned expert in all things DSS for life insurance companies for 50 years, most recently for Pacific Life.

He loved spending time with family, going on family vacations and long dinners with lively discussions about politics, technology and current events. Ed was a Red Sox fan with an encyclopedic knowledge of all things baseball. Always thinking of those less fortunate, he gave food to the homeless every chance he had.

He was the devoted father of Robert Silverman and his wife, Jamie, of Beverly Hills, California, Steven Silverman and his wife, Elzie, of Beverly Hills, and Rachel Silverman of Westwood, California. He was the loving grandfather of Joshua and Alexander Silverman. He was the dear brother of Arlene (Mel) Landesberg of Delray Beach, Florida, Lois Cohen of Cranston, and Linda (Jack) Winkleman of Wallingford, Connecticut. He was the dear brother-in-law of Philip (Lynda) Gerzog.

Burial was held in Lincoln Park Cemetery, Warwick.

Contributions may be made to: LA Food Bank, www. lafoodbank.org.

Paul Solomon, 94 WORCESTER, MASS. – Paul Solomon passed away March 12. He was the husband of the late Meva (Rhicard) Solomon. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Arthur and Rose (Kopp) Solomon. He was a resident of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, for over 35 years.

Paul graduated from Boston Latin School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy during WWII, serving in the North Atlantic. He studied at Colby College and Clark University, receiving a Ph.D. in psychology. He worked as a school psychologist in the New Bedford area for many years, in addition to his private practice. After retiring, he volunteered for several community organizations until he was 90.

He is survived by his sons Jeffrey Solomon (Susan) and Roger Solomon (Susan); stepdaughter Linda Wright (Carroll); six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Gregory Solomon.

Donations may be made to Tifereth Israel Congregation, 145 Brownell Ave., New Bed-

ford, MA 02740-1654.

Leonard Triedman, 91 NARRAGANSETT, R.I. – Leonard Jason Triedman, M.D., died March 19. He was the husband of Cynthia Knapp Triedman for 63 years.

Lenny was born in Pawtucket to Dr. Harry and Charlotte (Freedman) Triedman. He graduated from Moses Brown School in 1946, and from Brown University in 1949 at age 19, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School at age 23. Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, and was stationed at Otis Air Force Base in Hyannis delivering babies to the wives of enlisted men –nicknamed “The Flying Obstetrician.”

After his service, he moved to Boston and married Cynthia. He did his residency in surgery at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston and did a fellowship in head and neck surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

Lenny returned to Providence to establish a surgical practice. Over four decades, he cared for generations of Rhode Islanders, serving on the surgical staff of many Rhode Island hospitals, including The Miriam and Women & Infants hospitals, and was a clinical associate professor of surgery at Brown University Medical School.

He and Cynthia raised their children on Providence’s East Side and spent the last 33 years in Narragansett, where the extended family gathered frequently for holidays, summer weekends, and quiet dinners.

Lenny was a driven athlete with a passion for all sports.

He adored his New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox, and in the ’60s and ’70s, he was the team physician for both the Rhode Island Reds and the Pawtucket Red Sox. At various times, he was a ski patrolman; the R.I. men's tennis state champion; and an avid runner who finished the Boston Marathon numerous times. Among his favorite pastimes, especially in his later years, was golf.

Leonard leaves his wife, Cynthia Knapp Triedman; five children – Nancy Shalek (James Shalek) of Weston, Massachusetts; John Triedman (Susan Hellerstein) of

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

OBITUARIES Brookline, Massachusetts; Kim Triedman (Eric Oldsman) of Arlington, Massachusetts; Scott Triedman (Mary Jo Kaplan) of Providence; and Julie Triedman (Anthony Mace) of Brooklyn, New York; and 15 grandchildren – Alex, Nick, Peter, Hanna, Charlotte, Natalie, Nellie, Sophie, Lucy, Andy, Jamie, Liv, Hal, Cole and Bea. He also had six great-grandchildren. The family is grateful to caregivers Courtney Whynter, Olayinka Oladele and the staff of Wingate Residences on the East Side of Providence and Hope Hospice.

Donations can be made to the Lifespan Cancer Institute: Decoff Center, P.O. Box H, Providence, RI 02901. https:// giving.lifespan.org/LCI

Ronald Winter, 85 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Ronald Winter passed away on Feb. 16 at Bethany Rehab Center.

Winter graduated from Kenyon College and New York University Law School and additionally received a Master of Health Law. He practiced as a health care attorney in several hospitals in New York and Phila-

delphia. He was the executive director of the Providence Community Health Center in Providence before retiring.

He was a contributor and teacher of several organizations. He taught health care law at LaSalle and Widener universities.

He was a student of classical music and was a volunteer and tour guide for many years in the Manor House and on the entire campus of Tanglewood. Additionally, he enjoyed volunteering at the Friends of the Barrington Library as treasurer. He enjoyed working with the Philadelphia Orchestra and organizing chamber music concerts in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. The history of WWII and Winston Churchill were additional passions.

He was loved deeply by his wife of 62 years Elena. Survivors include his son Neil and daughter Beth and three grandchildren, Alex, Erika and Morgan.

Donations in his name to the American Heart Association would be appreciated.

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BUSINESS

Communication, compromise key to finding common financial ground RS & S

Priorities. One person

might prefer to focus their saving and spending on their bucket list, for example, while the other wants to prioritize saving for retirement and future health-care expenses. Or perhaps one person prefers to spend money on an extravagant wedding, while the other wants a simpler, less-expensive wedding so the couple can save more toward eventually purchasing a home.

Neither is necessarily right or wrong; their priorities merely differ.

Investment mindset.

Some people are comfortable taking on additional risks in how they invest their money and allocate their investment assets in order to access greater growth potential – what’s known as risk tolerance. Risk tolerance can diverge widely in a couple, with one being significantly more conservative

SE

DO

LA

than the other. Here again, it’s not necessarily that one person’s approach is “right,” and the other’s “wrong,” but they should try to find a joint approach to investing and asset allocation that works for them both, and that’s appropriate to their circumJASON E. stances, goals, SIPERSTEIN etc.

EN

L

COMMON WISDOM says that opposites attract – but good chemistry only goes so far for couples with stark differences in how they approach money and their financial lives.

Unless they can find common ground in some key areas, those differences could lead to tension, or worse – the kind of escalating money problems that can sour a solid relationship.

Couples with differing financial approaches are more common than you might expect. At some level, we are all a product of our upbringing. Children absorb the behavior modeled by their parents, which will eventually influence their own behavior. Some families are open about finances, but many are not. Some families freely spend, but many do not.

A couple’s divergent financial preferences tend to manifest in several key fundamental areas – areas where finding common ground can be critical to overall financial health.

Among them:

Spender versus saver.

It’s a cliché that rings true for many couples: one person takes a live-for-today (and some might say reckless) approach to their money, spending most of what they earn from week to week and month to month, while the other prefers to set aside a portion of their earnings to fulfill long-term goals, like saving for a major purchase or expense (home, car, college education, etc.) or building a nest egg for retirement.

Debt. Some people are

accustomed to, and comfortable with, carrying large credit-card balances from month to month. Others are adamant about paying their entire credit-card balance each month. A person’s record for paying down (or failing to pay down) debt in a timely fashion impacts his or her credit score, which in turn affects a couple’s ability to jointly obtain a line of credit or loan, as well as the terms tied to that line of credit or loan.

Following a budget/spending plan.

The financial structure of keeping a detailed accounting of household income and expenses, and following a formal household budget or spending plan, appeals to some people. Others choose to manage their money more informally.

Finding common ground.

Chances are, you and your partner diverge in at least one, and perhaps several, of these financial areas. If that’s the case, it’s time to

find some common ground, before your differences become divisive or destructive to your relationship and to your financial well-being.

Here are some suggestions to help you bridge the divide:

OK to be different. Allow each other to carve out some territory for yourselves, and don’t sweat the smaller stuff because it can distract you from what’s really important.

Be open-minded, nonjudgmental and willing to compromise.

Stake out a middle ground. When a cou-

Financial issues are nuanced, often complex and sometimes emotionally charged – and there is rarely a clear playbook. Your challenge is to find a financial pathway that works for you, your partner and your unique circumstances. The more you can communicate about the issues, without letting emotions get the best of you, the better chance you have of finding the right pathway.

ple has a “saver” and a “spender,” they can work together by finding strategies that are acceptable to both. For example, they might agree that fixed expenses, such as a mortgage and retirement savings plans, are “required expenses” and must be addressed before spending money on “fun expenses.”

Communicating on the non-negotiables should occur before deciding on what to spend for fun.

Give each other some breathing room.

Involve an objective, expert third party.

That means respecting your spouse or partner’s different approach to money and not nitpicking about minor things, so you can focus on finding common ground on more pressing issues.

Figure out areas where it’s

There may be times when a couple can’t find commonality on their own. Sometimes it takes an intermediary to come up with a creative solution that is acceptable to both sides. To find a financial planning professional

in your area, check out the searchable national database at www.PlannerSearch. org.

Get a formal, big-picture financial plan.

A formal financial plan developed by a financial professional – with your input – serves as a compass that keeps both of you on the pathway that connects your goals and priorities to your resources.

By recognizing where your financial personas differ and moving to bridge those divides through compromise, financial common ground is well within reach, even if you need some expert help.

JASON E. SIPERSTEIN, CFA, CFP, RMA, is the chairman of the Financial Planning Association of Rhode Island, program director for the CFA Society Providence and president of Eliot Rose Wealth Management. He can be reached by email at jes@ eliotrose.com.

Congregation Or Chadash Virtual Speaker Series These events are free and open to the community April 22, 2021 - Mike Fink Professor at RISD and well-known author who writes about issues concerning the Jewish Community.

May 18, 2021 - Amy Olson Executive Director of Hillel at URI will speak about the current generation of college students, Generation Z, and what animates them.

Previous presenters in this series included Alan Rosenberg, retired Executive Editor at the Providence Journal, James Vincent, President of the local chapter of the NAACP and Judge Edward Newman, President of the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center. Additional programs are in development..

Our Conservative Shul’s mission is to provide a relaxed but comfortable environment in which members can pray and enjoy personal enrichment through our programs and holiday festivities.

Enjoy a Shul with no building fund or Hebrew School to endow!

For more information about the Speaker Series or to join please contact us at programming@orchadash-ri.org

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