October 2020

The Voice of Greater Rhode Island’s Jewish Community

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OCTOBER 2020 | TISHRI/HESHVAN 5781

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Starting anew Up Front with Cantor Dr. Joel Gluck

Daniel Stieglitz on elections as an expat

Can you identify these Rhody buildings?

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

JEWISH RHODE ISL AND

EDITOR Fran Ostendorf ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Peter Zeldin pzeldin@jewishallianceri.org 401-421-4111, ext. 160 CONTRIBUTORS Cynthia Benjamin, Larry Kessler, Michael Schemaille COLUMNISTS Michael Fink, Geraldine Foster, Patricia Raskin, Rabbi James Rosenberg, Daniel Stieglitz

VOLUME XXVII, ISSUE XII JEWISH RHODE ISLAND

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

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A call to action: Make your voice heard DO YOU HAVE ELECTION FATIGUE? Left vs. right; accusations, fake news and lies; Russian and Chinese misinformation; sorting through mixed and confusing messages.

Are you ready to shut down and tune out?

Well, dear readers, don’t abandon ship yet! With weeks left in this most contentious election season, now is not the time to succumb to all the noise.

And it’s certainly not the time to abandon exercising the most basic of our democratic rights.

We live in a country where we are blessed with a lot of important rights and freedoms. One of those is our vote. It’s not just a right; it’s an obligation.

But this is not a political column, advocating for or against this or that candidate. We strive to be nonpartisan at Jewish Rhode Island. Left, right and everything in between – we advocate for all our ON THE COVER: readers and believe in presenting PHOTO BY multiple viewpoints on important STELLA LEVI | ISTOCK topics. And as part of a nonprofit organization, we cannot advocate for any one candidate.

That’s one of the rules for a 501(c)(3).

And I’m not even interested in telling you who to vote for (and please never ever ask me who I voted for) or even whether you should vote in person or by mail. I am, however, telling you not to ignore your duty to vote. I am telling you to make it your business to vote.

Vote by mail, vote early or vote in person on Election Day: Do what’s right for you, as long as you vote. Don’t let anyone deter you from voting the way you want.

Looking at this through a Jewish lens, part of being Jewish is engaging in community. It’s a mitzvah to practice tikkun olam, repairing the world. In order to do this, we need to choose who we want to govern our country, our state and our local government.

I remember being so excited when I turned 18 and could register to vote. Many years later, I was shocked that my children’s friends didn’t rush out to register shortly after their 18th birthdays. My kids sure did. They know how important it is to exercise their right to vote.

Going to the polls on Election Day was even more exciting. If we couldn’t manage that, we made sure to get an absentee ballot.

As a college student, I remember receiving my ballot in the mail and opening it in my dorm room. I think it stretched from my hand, while I was standing up, to the floor. Nonetheless, I filled it out and sent it off.

During the pandemic, voting has become a little more challenging, but it’s still far from difficult. This year, for example, my husband and I dutifully went to the polls as Massachusetts residents at the beginning of March. I picked up my ballot and went to the voting “booth” – only to come face to face with a communal marker. Now what?

Did I really have to use a pen that was touched by many others? I’d never even considered this problem. My husband had thought of this and brought his own pen. I was stuck, however. So I voted – and then sanitized.

The Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism has taken on the issue of voting with its “Every Voice, Every Vote” initiative. This nonpartisan civic-engagement effort calls on all of us to make it easier for every American to “exercise their right to vote and to break down obstacles that shut some out of the voting booth.” Several of their programs involve engaging students.

For more information on the initiative and to see the many activities that you can participate in, go to https:// rac.org/take-action/congregations-communities/rac-civic-engagement-campaign-2020.

Meanwhile, if you have questions about voting in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, here are some resources.

Rhode Island

● Voter registration deadline: Oct. 4 ● Mail ballot application deadline: Oct. 13 ● Early in-person voting begins: Oct. 14 ● All mail ballots must be received by the State Board of Elections, 2000 Plainfield Pike, Cranston, RI 02921, by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3. ● Go to https://elections.ri.gov for links and forms

Massachusetts

● Voter registration deadline: Oct. 24 ● Municipalities must offer early voting Oct. 17-30. Check with local election websites for locations and the exact schedule in your area. ● Ballots sent by U.S. mail must be postmarked by Nov. 3 and received by Nov. 6. ● Go to https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ovr for links and forms This is your call to action. Your vote counts!

Fran Ostendorf, Editor

BUSINESS & PHILANTHROPY 26 | CALENDAR 10 | COMMUNITY 18 | D’VAR TORAH 5 FOOD 14 | OBITUARIES 23 | OPINION 6 | SIMCHAS 31 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 is the official newspaper of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, the owner and publisher, at 401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence, RI, and is published Monthly. The editor is Fran Ostendorf.

Circulation: (A) Average number of copies each issue during the preceding 12 months, ending September 30, 2020, (1) net press run 9,400 (2) paid circulation to term subscribers by mail carrier delivery 5,482 (3) free distribution 3,818 (4) copies not distributed 100 (5) total 9,400

(B) Single issue nearest to filing date September 04, 2020 (1) Net press run 9,400 (2) paid circulation to term subscribers by mail carrier delivery 5,494 (3) free distribution 3,806 (4) copies not distributed 100 (5) total 9,400.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

UP FRONT

PHOTO | GLENN OSMUNDSON

From podiatrist to science teacher to cantor An interiew with Cantor Dr. Joel Gluck

BY MICHAEL SCHEMAILLE

C

antor Dr. Joel Gluck was ordained by the Jewish Spiritual Leaders Institute in 2019. In 2020, the baritone became the spiritual leader at Bristol’s United Brothers Synagogue. Cantor Gluck is also the artistic director of Shirenu, the Jewish

community choir at Temple Sinai, in Cranston.

Gluck and his wife, Gaye, were married in 1993, and their son, Anthony, is a student at Rhode Island College. The couple lives in Warwick.

Here are Cantor Gluck’s responses, edited for length and clarity, to questions asked during a video interview

When did you first become interested in music?

I went to the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, in Philadelphia. In 1990, I joined a Jewish choir there, the Arbel Chorale, and I got the bug. Later, I was a member

of the Zamir Chorale of Boston, which is a professional Jewish choir. From there, I got interested in becoming a cantor. I learned as much as I could on my own, and then enrolled in the Jewish Spiritual Leaders Institute (JSLI); it was a wonderful experience. Then I wanted to learn more, so this semester I enrolled part time in the Masters of Jewish Sacred Music program at the Academy of Jewish Religion in California.

What inspired you to go from participating in a choir to a leadership role?

I’ve always loved the music of Jewish prayer. I learned so much of it on my own, and I wanted to learn the stuff that you need to run a service; that’s where JSLI came in. I’ve been a lifelong learner; I love being in school.

That’s why I went back now, and why I love being a teacher. It’s why I went into the Academy of Jewish Religion. I’m never happy with where I am; I always want to go further.

What was the path that led you to Rhode Island?

I went to Stony Brook University [in New York] and then to Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. I lived in downtown Philly for a number of years, and from there I took a job in Connecticut. But my wife and I wanted to live in an area with a Jewish community, so we decided to live in Warwick.

You were a practicing podiatrist, but gave up medicine to become a science teacher. Why?

Commuting from Warwick to my practice in Connecticut for 11 years or so, there was always something missing. I realized that I didn’t like the clinical aspect of medicine, but I liked the science of it. I realized that I really liked school, and that I wanted to teach. So, I got certified as a public-school teacher. I sold my practice and took a full-time job as a science teacher. I teach anatomy and physiology at Cranston High School West and the Community College of Rhode Island.

Tell me about your Jewish background.

I was raised in New York, on Long Island. I CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

We are commanded to rejoice remember the time when, as a people, we lived in the desert and were unsure of our future. We read Ecclesiastes, a book that begins with an exclamation that “all is futile!”

The injunction to rejoice on this holiday is not simply to have a party. It is a celebration despite our challenges.

Sukkot acknowledges the sorrow and pain in the world and gives us permission to rejoice anyway.

RABBI Sukkot teaches us about SARAH MACK resilience. It is about facing reality and still having the courage to find happiness.

In doing so, our tradition reflects upon happiness and its meaning. Joy in this season is commanded (Deuteronomy 16): you shall rejoice on your festive day.

We learn that joy is a capability that we can activate despite circumstances that surround us. We are not commanded to rejoice in our personal happiness.

We are told to look beyond ourselves to rejoice in the season and in redemp-

tion with gratitude. We all possess the superpower to rejoice – the Jewish tradition reminds us not to let it get rusty.

After the affliction of Yom Kippur, we transition to mandatory rejoicing just five days later. There is something about baring our souls that opens our hearts to abundant joy. Brene Brown teaches, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of joy and creativity, of belonging and love.” That is exactly what the holiday of Sukkot is all about. We gather with friends, family and community to eat, sing and shake the lulav and etrog in an affirmation of life and goodness.

From flimsy booths reminiscent of our wanderings in the desert we exclaim “Ufros aleinu sukkat shlomiecha” – Eternal One, spread over us your sukkah of peace.

May we have the strength and courage to celebrate all we hold precious this Sukkot and in doing so find wholeness.

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naming. Kol Nidrei is an obvious answer. I love the high holiday music – it’s grand and majestic … it’s not only the present that you’re in, but you’re thinking about the past as well, which is what the high holidays are about – taking your path and making a better future.

I’m very interested in preserving chazones, the old Eastern European chazzanut [melodies and intonations].

One of my upcoming goals would be to have a concert with old-fashioned chazzanut from the golden age – Moishe Oysher, Yossele Rosenblatt, all those.

I listen to those cantors so that I can become inspired to do what I do.

It’s a special skill that the cantors had in the 1920s, ’30s, ’40s. You could actually feel what they were saying. You may not have understood what they were saying, but you knew what they were saying just by how they were singing it.

Favorite traditional foods?

D' VA

HERE WE STAND, mourning 200,000 lives lost to COVID, surrounded by the divisiveness of an ugly election year, fully feeling the weight of pandemic life that continues to weigh us down.

Now, our tradition teaches, it is time to rejoice in our season. Now? Really?

One might ask. It may feel disingenuous to speak of joy in this moment. We learn that it is not necessarily because of outward events that we find joy, rather despite them.

The holiday of Sukkot can be just the balm for our tired souls. Its lessons can offer us solace and teach us about finding simcha (joy) anywhere and anytime.

This holiday, or z’man simchateinu (time of our joy), reminds us that joy is not a luxury or a privilege. It is a human birthright and a necessity.

Sukkot is about embracing our fragility and vulnerability head on. We erect huts that are open to the elements. We

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didn’t have a very active Jewish life as a child – that really came when I met my wife. She kind of led me into it, and it took over from there. Now, we are members of Temple Sinai, Temple Emanu-El [in Providence], [and] Chabad of West Bay [in Warwick].

How did you become involved with United Brothers Synagogue?

I was at the point in my training that I wanted to have my own congregation, and around March or April, United Brothers put an advertisement in [Jewish Rhode Island]. As soon as I saw the ad, I made a phone call; the rest is history.

How is United Brothers different from other places where you’ve led prayer?

Here, I do everything – the sermons and the service, as well as the singing, so it’s a little different from just leading the prayer. If there was a rabbi next to me, they would do half of the things I’m doing now.

I assume you’re doing most things virtually; have you done anything like that before?

Yes, 100% virtual. As a teacher, I’ve been conducting online classes since March, but music over Zoom is not that great, and you can’t do more than one voice at a time and keep your sanity. I miss the ability to be able to actually meet the congregants – I would love to meet them all.

We’ve been getting a steady, consistent number of people watching our services on YouTube, about half of our membership has watched at some point or another.

Do you have a favorite piece of Jewish or liturgical music?

There are so many. I love the “R’tzei,” by [Stephen] Richards, a Friday-night piece. “L’dor V’dor” is a favorite of mine, because it was sung at my son’s

What do you find to be the most rewarding aspects of your work?

There’s a quote from the Baal Shem Tov: “Music takes you from the place you are to the place you want to be.” So, I guess the most rewarding aspect of what I do is helping people get to where they want to be from where they are.

Favorite Jewish holiday?

I like Simchat Torah. I connect greatly with the Torah scroll. Whenever I’m around the Torah, it makes me feel good.

SARAH MACK is acting senior rabbi at Temple Beth-El in Providence

People think I’m crazy, but one of the things I love is shmura matzah. I can’t eat square matzah anymore, it doesn’t taste the same. I also like potato latkes, but they don’t always like me, and Passover candy – I like the chocolates from Manischewitz, and the sesame bricks.

If you could have any three people to dinner, who would you invite?

I would love to sit and have a conversation with Moses, just to hear straight out of his mouth what happened. I would love to have a conversation with Martin Luther King Jr., because I’m very active in MLK celebrations in the state. And then, it’s going to sound kind of corny, but one of the pop stars that was famous when I was growing up, like Barbra Streisand and Barry Manilow – the people I’ve always had fantasies of singing with.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

When I did my first high holiday services on my own, I posted on Facebook that I wanted to emulate the old cantors.

A cantor friend of mine, someone I’ve known for 30 years, said, “Don’t worry about being the best of them; be the best of yourself.” That’s been the most helpful for me.

MICHAEL SCHEMAILLE is a Cumberland-based freelance writer and editor.

Reach him at mbschemaille@gmail.com.

IN THE NEWS

Wendy Schiller to offer political insights On Oct. 14, at 7 p.m., The Miriam Hospital Women’s Association Community Speaker series features Wendy J. Schiller speaking on the 2020 election.

Schiller, Royce Family Professor of Teaching Excellence in Political Science and Chair of the Department of Political Science at Brown University, is a frequent commentator on local and national news outlets. At Brown, she is also professor of international and public affairs.

Schiller will discuss the key issues likely to impact the outcome of the upcoming presidential election and answer audience questions.

For the first time ever, this program will be offered via Zoom.

Registration is limited for this Zoom webinar.

Contact Vickie Scott, 401793-2520, for more information.

Candle lighting times Greater Rhode Island October 2020

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UNITED BROTHERS SYNAGOGUE, also known as Chevra Agudas Achim, is a self-described “liberal Jewish congregation serving Rhode Island’s East Bay.” Founded in 1900, the synagogue is located at 205 High St., in Bristol. The congregation counts approximately 40 families as members and welcomes all who are interested in participating in Jewish life, including interfaith couples and members of the LGBTQ+ community. For more information, visit unitedbrotherssynagogue.org, email ubsbristol@gmail.com, or call 401253-3460.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION Go to the polls if you can

I worked on political campaigns in 1976, and Lorber, and others into the 80s.I sat at the Board of Elections and watched them go over absentee ballots. I don’t remember there being mail ballots back then.

I saw and heard of people getting arrested for helping (mostly in the elderly high-rises) others fill out the ballots. Anyone connected with any close elections in Rhode Island knows this has always been a problem and really can’t be stopped. If you can stand in line at the market or anywhere else, you can stand in line to ensure your vote is counted.

This is a very important election.

Larry Steingold Ojai, Calif.

Israel has more per capita deaths from the coronavirus each day than US

BY MARCY OSTER (JTA) – Israel’s daily number of deaths from the coronavirus is higher than the United States on a per capita basis, according to a new report.

Israel’s daily rate over the last week has been an average of 3.5 deaths per million people. The U.S. rate was 2.2 deaths per million.

The report was published Sunday [Sept. 27] by the Coronavirus Information and Knowledge Center, a task force formed by the Israel army’s military intelligence with cooperation from the Health Ministry, according to Israeli media reports.

Israel also has a higher infection and mortality rate per million people than the United States, France, Britain, Italy, Austria and South Korea, Haaretz reported, citing the report.

The Ministry of Health reported 1,507 deaths overall from the coronavirus as of Tuesday morning [Sept. 29].

Also Tuesday, Health Minister Yuli Edelstein told the Kan national broadcaster that there is “no chance” that the new lockdown recently imposed in Israel will be lifted at the end of the Sukkot holiday on Oct. 11.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed the remarks, saying on Facebook Live that “the closure will last a month and maybe much longer. Targets and indices have been set and they will dictate how long it will last.”

I HAVE BEEN A FAN of Thomas L. Friedman ever since I read his 1989 book, “From Beirut to Jerusalem,” a perceptive, nuanced look at Israel’s involvement in the seemingly infinite complexities of war and peace in the Middle East.

From the moment Friedman began writing op-ed pieces for The New York Times, in 1995, I have been a regular reader of his columns, which focus primarily on foreign affairs. I have often wanted to stand up and cheer after finishing his final paragraph – but, on occasion, I have been infuriated by his daring to contradict one of my long-held, heartfelt, though not-well-thoughtout, positions.

Nothing I have read by Friedman, however, has moved me as much as his Sept. 9 op-ed, “Who Can Win America’s Politics of Humiliation?” In the piece, he addresses a question that has been troubling me with increasing urgency as we approach the Nov. 3 election: Given all that Donald Trump has said and done during the past threeand-a-half years, why do 40 to 45% of my fellow Americans continue to be his staunch supporters? What do they see in him that I fail to see?

A few who voted for him in 2016 have told me that their vote was anti-Hillary rather than pro-Trump, and I must agree that Hillary Clinton was certainly not the best of candidates. Moreover, I can understand that some individuals think that voting for Trump on Nov. 3 will be in their economic interest. And while I vigorously disagree with them, I do realize that some of my fellow Jews think that voting for Trump on Nov. 3 is in the best interests of Israel.

But I could not wrap my head around Trump’s appeal to millions of white working-class men until Friedman pointed out in his op-ed piece that large numbers of the president’s supporters are “attracted to his attitude – his willingness and evident delight in skewering the people they hate and who they feel look down on them.”

Friedman goes on to say: “Humiliation, in my view, is the most underestimated force in politics and international relations. The poverty of dignity explains much more than

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the poverty of money.”

Friedman’s column draws on the insights of his close friend, Harvard political philosopher Michael Sandel, whose recently published book is titled “The Tyranny of Merit: What’s Become of the Common Good?”

Friedman echoes Sandel’s notion that “ ‘the politics of humiliation’ is also at the heart of Trump’s appeal.”

Sandel argues that America’s broad cultural support for meritocracy is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, there is something hopeful and liberating in our deeply rooted belief that hard work, especially the work of earning a college degree, pays off both socially and economRABBI JAMES ically. On the other ROSENBERG hand, our unquestioning devotion to the principles of meritocracy has had serious negative, if unintended, consequences.

As Sandel writes in his new book, “Elites have so valorized a college degree – both as an avenue for advancement and as a basis for social esteem – that they have difficulty understanding the hubris a meritocracy can generate, and the harsh judgment it imposes upon those who have not gone to college.”

I confess that I am a product of our American meritocracy. Though my father grew up poor, the youngest of five children born to immigrants from Lithuania, he eventually managed to work his way through Harvard during the depths of the Great Depression, graduating in the Class of 1937. As a result of his educational attainments and work ethic, he was able to pay for 12 years of my education at Pingry, at the time an all-boys private country day school in Hillside, New Jersey. He also managed to pay for my younger brother’s tuition at the same school, my older sister’s tuition at Wellesley, my brother’s tuition at Harvard, and my tuition at Columbia followed by five years at rabbinical school.

Though I worked hard during school breaks and summer vacations, I never had to struggle to balance my studies with earning my tuition.

Though clearly a beneficiary of our country’s meritocracy, I can see the harsh, blatantly unfair judgment

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IN THE NEWS

‘For my sake was the world created!’

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LETTERS

this system places upon the majority of Americans who have not completed four years of college. Though highly intelligent and an avid reader, my own mother never had the opportunity to go to college.

College degrees are credentials, but they are by no means the most important measure of character or talent. One of the few positive lessons that our ongoing pandemic has brought to light is that our local “essential workers” – many of whom don’t have college degrees – have contributed enormously to our well-being. To choose but one example, every Tuesday a worker from the nearby Eastside Marketplace calls us to take our order; on Wednesday morning, another person shops for us; later that day, a third individual delivers our groceries to the door of our condo.

These workers provide an added layer of protection for Sandy and me, as we struggle to stay safe and healthy during these anxious COVID-19 days.

In ways that matter most, these workers are among America’s elite; they keep America singing.

No matter who wins the November election, our country will continue to need a complete and radical healing, a refuah shleimah, a healing of our body, a healing of our soul.

We need to return to the biblical notion that every one of us is created b’tselem Elohim, in the image of God (Genesis 1.27). We need to affirm the inherent dignity of every human being, regardless of social, economic or educational status.

Our Talmud (Sanhedrin 38.a) highlights our need to cherish the sacredness inherent in every individual: “God created Adam as a single individual … for the sake of human harmony, so that no person will say to another: ‘My father is greater than your father.’… Therefore each and every individual is obligated (Yes, obligated!) to say, ‘For my sake was the world created!’ ” For my sake – be I a CEO or a migrant farmer, be I the holder of a Ph.D. in nuclear physics or be I illiterate, be I an essential worker or an elderly shut-in – for my sake was the world created.

JAMES B. ROSENBERG is a rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim, in Barrington. Contact him at rabbiemeritus@templehabonim.org.

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

Send letters and op-eds to: Jewish Rhode Island, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906 or editor@jewishallianceri.org. Include name, city of residence and a contact phone number or email (not for publication).

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COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION

A plan to create a stronger Jewish community

BY ADAM GREENMAN IN DECEMBER 2019 I sat in a Newport living room with more than 25 members of our community, and I listened.

The group was diverse in age, diverse in denomination, and diverse in politics and professions. They ranged in age from their 20s to their 80s. They represented three congregations. And as I listened, I found it remarkable how united they were in their views about Jewish community.

The same scenario played out again and again as we listened last year.

More than 250 people participated in these living room conversations throughout the region. And while there was diversity in thought, there was uniformity in their hopes for our community. Over and over again we heard similar themes, and we used those themes, along with the data from over 450 community survey responses to develop our new strategic plan. It is not just a roadmap for the Alliance, but for the entire Rhode Island Jewish community over the next few years.

In the survey responses and community meetings, the recurring theme was the need for greater connection.

This included connection between parts of our community, and on an individual to individual level. People want to connect, but need the tools to

do so. At the Alliance, we are well-positioned to help people throughout our region connect to each other and to the larger Jewish community. We have already created an engagement team at the Alliance to focus on connecting people to the community in a way that meets the needs of each person. We will continue to provide programming to support this community building.

And we are exploring ways to connect people more closely, even in the midst of a pandemic when we cannot do so physically. Our goal is to make connections throughout the state and region, supporting Jewish life wherever it may be.

Collaboration also emerged as an important focus for our community.

At a time when needs are high and the resources to address those needs are a bit more scarce, Jewish agencies and synagogues must work more closely to create community. As the largest organization serving our entire Jewish community, we see it as our responsibility to lead by example in this area.

Earlier this year we began convening our Jewish agencies on a regular basis to share ideas, resources and better coordinate our efforts. Additionally, we continue to convene synagogue presidents and leaders to share ideas and problem-solve together. We are also working with synagogues to

partner on events and programs, and to explore opportunities to bring Jewish Community Center programs like J-Camp to other parts of the state.

These collaborations, big and small, will create better coordination among Jewish institutions, and will provide more support for members of our community.

The community was also clear on some other areas where the Alliance should focus. Specifically, bringing the community together around social action and social responsibility. In the next few years we plan to expand volunteer opportunities, as well as opportunities to get involved on issues important to the community, like climate change and racial justice. And we will continue our work to fight anti-Semitism and keep our community safe.

This plan is ambitious, and it will take resources. We estimate that it

Our goal is to make connections throughout the state and region, supporting Jewish life wherever it may be.

will take approximately $10 million over the next three years to accomplish the goals in this plan. That is $1 million more than we raised in the previous three years. But I have confidence that a plan built by the community, for the community, will attract investment from supporters in our community, those who have invested for decades and new donors who are excited about the future.

In that Newport living room, and in every living room we visited, the last question we asked was, “What are the first things we should focus on as a community?” So often, the first answer was, “More of this.” More opportunities to come together to discuss our community and the role we all play in making it better. More opportunities to get together and collaborate. And more opportunities to simply get together and build Jewish community and individual Jewish relationships. At the Alliance, this is not just our plan, it is our commitment to you. But we can only do it with your help. And we look forward to working with you during the next few years to create the stronger, more vibrant community we all desire.

ADAM GREENMAN is the president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

It’s our shared responsibility to fight hate

BY JIM VINCENT AND ADAM GREENMAN OUR STATE’S MOTTO is simply “Hope.”

For many right now, feelings of hope may feel distant and difficult to achieve. But we must remember, we all have a responsibility to one another.

Elie Wiesel, author, professor and Holocaust survivor famously stated, “We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the oppressed. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” We are living through a time of historic upheaval. The COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened the inequity in our country. Prior to the pandemic, there was a growing and persistent gap between those at the top and the bottom of the economic ladder. Today, while the stock market has returned to pre-shutdown levels, tens of millions of Americans remain without work.

In times of stress and in times of trouble, history teaches us that people look to place blame. Too often that

blame falls to minority populations.

Our own histories teach us this. In the Black community, America’s original sin of slavery has led to a systemic racism that has terrorized Black Americans for generations. After the Civil War, freed slaves were blamed for problems in the nation leading to Jim Crow laws and other restrictions on their freedom. Following the Civil Rights movement, the Black community and other minorities were blamed for rising crime and unrest, and we witnessed the implementation of racist laws sending millions to prison for small crimes or no crimes at all.

For many in the Jewish community, our American story started when our ancestors escaped the Pogroms of Eastern Europe in the late 19th century. Those early Jewish immigrants experienced anti-Semitism in very blatant ways, being denied the ability to buy homes in certain areas and enter communal institutions, which is the immigrant story many in this country had and continue to have.

And sadly, each day we lose more survivors of the Holocaust that killed more than 6 million Jews. We are losing the ability to hear firsthand accounts of the atrocities that take place when hatred and bigotry are used as weapons.

We know from these histories that hatred begins when we blame others for the problems in our own communities. That hatred turns to radicalization, which all too frequently turns to violence. In recent years we have witnessed horrific tragedies in Charleston, South Carolina, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, among too many others. In both cases people praying together were targets for white supremacy and hatred.

For targeted communities, there is not only violence, but deeply entrenched fear. We want to be clear, HOPE, CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

We know that hatred begins when we blame others for the problems in our own communities. That hatred turns to radicalization, which all too frequently turns to violence.

8 | OCTOBER 2020

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES

Ruth Bader Ginsburg balanced being American and Jewish — her delayed funeral is no exception

BY JONATHAN D. SARNA This article was first published on The Conversation.

(JTA) – AS NEWS OF THE PASSING of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg spread on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a common question heard in discussions among American Jews was “When will she be buried?”

As a longtime scholar of American Jewish life, I understood that the question behind that question was whether, in death, Justice Ginsburg’s family would comply with longstanding Jewish tradition that mandates prompt burial. Or, in accordance with longstanding American tradition, would her burial be delayed so that mourners might pay her respects?

In death, as in life, American Jews looked to see how Justice Ginsburg balanced being an American and being a Jew. Dust returns to the earth To honor the dead, Orthodox Jews perform burials as quickly as possible, sometimes within just a few hours.

That’s not always possible, of course. Funerals can be delayed when the death falls on the Sabbath – a day of rest in the Jewish faith when no burials are performed – or on a Jewish holiday. They can also be delayed to accommodate the needs and considerations of close relatives traveling in from afar.

The practice of burying Jews swiftly is so deeply ingrained, however, that in 1995, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, who was far from Orthodox and whose funeral was attended by leaders who rushed in from around the world, had his funeral performed and was buried within just two days of his assassination.

If Justice Ginsburg’s family did not follow Jewish tradition by delaying her burial, in other respects they honored that tradition to the hilt.

For example, the wooden casket lying in repose at the Supreme Court and in state at the Capitol remained

HOPE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 our experiences are not the same.

Systemic racism and bigotry in America affect the Black community every day in ways that most Jewish community members have not experienced in decades. But more recently, even here in Rhode Island, we have witnessed actions that have increased fear throughout all minority communities. Whether it is someone shouting a slur from a car window, online harassment or threats of physical violence, it needs to end.

Hatred is hatred, full stop. We stand

firmly shut. And in keeping with Jewish practice, there was no public viewing of her body and, apparently, no embalming. Far from preserving the body, Jews believe, following the book of Ecclesiastes in the Hebrew Bible, that “the dust returns to the earth as it was” – the sooner the better.

A fitting rest Justice Ginsburg also received, for the first time in American Jewish

history, a traditional Jewish funeral in the Great Hall of the Supreme Court. Rabbi Lauren Holtzblatt, a Conservative rabbi of Congregation Adas Israel in Washington, D.C., and a friend of Ginsburg’s whose husband once served as the justice’s law clerk, presided alongside Chief Justice John Roberts.

The service included all the familiar components of a Jewish funeral including a stirring eulogy, recitation of the 23rd Psalm and the chanting, in Hebrew, of the late medieval prayer El Maleh Rachamim: “God full of mercy … grant fitting rest.” The prayer recited at Justice Ginsburg’s funeral included the justice’s full Hebrew name, Yita Ruchel bat Celia, which includes her mother’s name but untraditionally not her father’s.

Usually, burial in a Jewish cemetery follows immediately upon a Jewish funeral, individual mourners reverently accompanying the casket to wherever the cemetery is located. There, around the open grave, additional prayers including a special kaddish, a praise of God, are recited and the casket is lowered.

Mourners and community members then personally participate in the powerful act of filling in the grave, shoveling a spadeful of dirt atop the casket, each thump reinforcing the finality that death represents.

In the case of Justice Ginsburg, that won’t happen in a Jewish cemetery.

Instead, after her casket lies in state, it will be transported to Arlington National Cemetery for a private burial service. Arlington, a national and nondenominational cemetery, has no special section set aside for Jews and explicitly forbids some traditional Jewish rituals such as manually lowering the casket and filling in the grave.

Two identities The traditional Jewish elements in Justice Ginsburg’s funeral and the departures from Jewish tradition connected with her burial both reflect aspects of her identity. She took great pride in her Jewish heritage but broke with most traditional Jewish practices.

In death, as in life, she cherished two identities – being an American and being a Jew – even when they failed to easily harmonize. Her Jewish funeral and Arlington National Cemetery burial speak to her quest to balance these two identities.

PHOTO | ©MARSHALL H. COHEN, BIG MARSH NEWS PHOTOS

Chief Justice William H. Renquist administers the oath of office at the White House to incoming Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg standing together with her husband Martin Ginsberg, holding the bible, and then President Bill Clinton. The White House, 1993.

together to say we are steadfast in our work together to fight racism and anti-Semitism. To fight homophobia and xenophobia and Islamophobia. To recognize people for who they are and not simply by their race, ethnicity, orientation or faith. We call on you to join us. We hope you will consider the following action steps: • LISTEN – hear from those who live these experiences every day. Seek to understand how their reality differs from yours.

• LEARN – educate yourself on the histories of other communities. History tells us so much about the current moment we are living through and can offer possible solutions for our

way forward.

• CALL OUT HATRED – when you hear a racist or anti-Semitic comment, it is easy to let it pass. But that action implicitly tells the person saying it that it is okay, and leads to normalizing the behavior. We cannot allow hatred to be normalized.

• BE AN ALLY – we stand stronger when we stand together. Your voice can and will help others. If you believe in the pursuit of a more just world, lend your voice to the conversation.

None of this is easy, but it is necessary work. We don’t want to live in a world built on fear. The late John Lewis, one of our heroes, once said,

JONATHAN D. SARNA is the Joseph H. and Belle R. Braun Professor of American Jewish History at Brandeis University. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

“Freedom is the continuous action we must all take, and each generation must do its part to create an even more fair, more just society.” We ask you to join us in our fight against hatred and bigotry in all forms, to fully realize the values embedded in our state motto of hope.

JIM VINCENT is the president of the NAACP – Providence Chapter.

ADAM GREENMAN is the president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. A version of this commentary appeared in the Providence Journal on Sept. 7.

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES

There’s more to Columbus than meets the eye

CH

was once the greatest library in the world was created

by Christopher Columbus’ youngest son? This “love child” sailed with Columbus at the age of 12 and wrote an admiring account of his beloved father in his personal journal. And he went on to collect scrolls and books dedicated to his famous forebear’s courage and imagination.

I have no desire, nor any intention, of justifying the cruelties and tragedies of the renowned and celebrated – and later despised – explorer’s ambitious and relentless voyages, but only to put in a plea to MIKE FINK add more facets, facts and faces to the account of his failings ... and thus to create a portrait not only of a man but of a species: the human species.

The entire evolution of our collective presence upon the Earth is a saga of pollution, piracy and mass murder!

In the Providence branch library at Smith Hill, there is a book by one Simon Wiesenthal, “Sails of Hope,” in which the famous Nazi hunter, concentration-camp survivor and creator of the Museum of Tolerance, in California, claims that the crew on Columbus’ ships was made up primarily of prisoners of Spain and Portugal who were otherwise facing a fiery death at the stake during the notorious Spanish Inquisition.

In other words, they were somehow rescued rather than being exploited.

Here in our town, there is a professor named Carol Delaney who writes another version of the admiral who brought Bible study to the Americas. She stands up in print with a diverse view of how we might contemplate the character of Columbus.

Sukkot is one of my favorite holidays, for its own diversity: open roof, open doors, open welcome to our ancestors as well as strangers, ghosts, neighbors, and the past and the future, plus moments under the moon and stars, rain and sunbeam, fantasy and fact.

BOOK

SKE

T

DID YOU KNOW that a pigeon is a dove and that the word “columbus” means just that in Latin, the bird that makes a cooing, melancholy melody over all the continents and builds nests in every city upon our globe?

And did you know that the biblical Noah sent out the bird from his ark three times before coming to rest in a safe harbor? The first time, the bird flew back to the ark, the second time it returned with an olive branch in its beak, and the third time it did not return because it had found a place to build its nest, signaling to Noah that all was well after the great planetary flood of folkloric fables ... or perhaps of genetic and universal inborn memory.

You can read something of Noah into the biography of Christopher Columbus.

But all of our honored arts and their forms and genres are in big trouble these days. Maybe especially here in our hemisphere. We are erasing the names of national holidays, destroying or insulting and assaulting statues honoring our heroes of yore, and raging against those who object to this defacement and denial.

I have visited statues of Columbus far and wide, from Ohio to Puerto Rico, New York to Boston’s North End waterfront park, the campus of Manhattan’s Columbia University to the campus of Bristol Community College, the junction of Cranston and Providence to the boulevards of Newport.

Did you know that what

A bit of nature with a bit of art.

MIKE FINK (mfink33@aol.com) teaches at the Rhode Island School of Design.

OCTOBER 2020 | 9

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Get to know Gordon this fall See the latest admissions events at gordonschool.org/ openhouse

Nursery through eighth grade • East Providence • gordonschool.org

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.

Music with Raymond Buttero via Zoom. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 3-4 p.m. Temple Sinai’s pianist performs. Click on link on homepage of templesinairi.org. Information, Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Temple Emanu-El Delve Deeper: “The Lost Books of the Bible.”

Tuesdays 7:30-9 p.m. thru 12/15.

Brown University Professor Michael Satlow teaches Zoom course on the relevancy of certain books that did not make it into the Bible. Cost: $250 per person | scholarships available.

Information, Rabbi Rachel Zerin at rzerin@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Habonim Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman via Zoom. Thursdays noon-1 p.m.

Join Rabbi Howard for Torah Study on Pirke Avot: A Modern Commentary on Jewish Ethics. Information, Adina Davies at office@templehabonim.org or 401-245-6536.

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

Rabbi Goldwasser leads meditation including reflections on Jewish wisdom and mindfulness. No prior experience required. Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401942-8350.

Temple Sinai Shabbat Services via Zoom. Fridays 6-7:15 p.m. With Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser and Cantor Deborah Johnson. Click on link on homepage of templesinairi.org. Information, Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Temple Beth-El Remote Torah Study. Saturdays 9-10 a.m. Zoom meeting led by one of Beth-El’s clergy. Information, Jenn Thomas at jthomas@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070.

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 401-245-6536.

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 at 401-942-8350.

Friday | October 2

Temple Emanu-El Erev Sukkot Z’man Kodesh. 8 a.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Erev Sukkot Services. 5:15 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401331-1616.

Saturday | October 3

Temple Emanu-El Sukkot Day 1 Shabbat/Yom Tov Services. 9:15 a.m. Information, teprov.org, info@ teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Sukkot Day 1 Teaching and Ma’ariv. 6:45 p.m.

Information, teprov.org, info@teprov. org or 401-331-1616.

Sunday | October 4

Temple Emanu-El Sukkot Day 2 Yom Tov Services. 9:15 a.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Sukkot Day 2 Teaching and Ma’ariv/Havdalah.

6:45/6:46 p.m. Information, teprov. org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Tuesday | October 6

Little States, Big Innovation, Rhode Island X Israel Monthly Webinar Series. Noon-1 p.m. Interactive session with some of Israel’s startup entrepreneurs. Program is a collaboration of Rhode Island - Israel Collaborative (RIIC), District Hall Providence and RIHub. Information, info@districthallprovidence.org.

Jewish Alliance Virtual Book Club: “The Third Daughter” by Talia Carner. 7-8 p.m. A powerful story of courage and hope, this book brings to life a dark period of Jewish history when thousands of women were tricked and sold into brothels. Free.

Register, jewishallianceri.org/bookclub/. Information, Lisa Maybruch at lmaybruch@jewishallianceri.org.

Wednesday | October 7

Jewish Alliance Fall Blood Drive.

8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence.

Everyone must sign up in advance for a donation time. Information, Stephanie Hague at shague@jewishallianceri.org.

Friday | October 9

Temple Emanu-El Hoshana Rabbah. 7:45 a.m. Z’man Kodesh.

Information, teprov.org, info@teprov. org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Erev Sh’mini Atzeret Services. 5:45 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Saturday | October 10

Temple Emanu-El Sh’mini Atzeret Shabbat/Yom Tov Services. 9:15 a.m. Information, teprov.org, info@

OCTOBER 2020 | 11

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

For more than two centuries, Moses Brown has fostered personal excellence and integrity in students who aim to make a positive difference in the world.

See how a Quaker education can make a difference for you. teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Erev Simchat Torah Services. 6:35 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Sunday | October 11

Temple Emanu-El Simchat Torah Yom Tov Services with Hakafot.

9:15 a.m. View at teprov.org/viewservices-live. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Simhat Torah Teaching and Ma’ariv via Zoom.

6:15 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Wednesday | October 14

Flu Shot Clinic. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Green Line Apothecary pharmacists will administer flu shots to those age 18 and older. Open to the community; advance reservations required. Bring ID and insurance card. Information, Elissa Felder at efelder@jewishallianceri.org.

Israeli Culture Night via Zoom: “The Conflict over the Conflict: The Israel/Palestine Campus Debate.” 7 p.m. Author Kenneth Stern, director of the Bard Center for the Study of Hate, will discuss the findings of his book, which chronicles this divisive issue on today’s college and university campuses.

Free. Register, jewishallianceri.org/ stern/. Information, Or Cohen at ocohen@jewishallianceri.org.

The Miriam Hospital Women’s Association Presents “Political Insights: The 2020 Election” via Zoom. 7 p.m. Wendy J. Schiller, chair of the Department of Political Science at Brown University, will discuss the key issues likely to impact the outcome of the upcoming presidential election and answer audience questions. Open to the public. Free. Information, Vickie Scott at 401-793-2520.

Core Connects RI Zoom Book Group: “The Gift: 12 Lessons to Save Your Life.” 7:30-9 p.m.

Practical and inspirational guide to healing from award-winning, New York Times bestselling author. Dr. Edith Eger shows us how to stop destructive patterns and imprisoning thoughts to find freedom and enjoy life. For women. Information or RSVP, Elissa Felder at CoreConnectsRI.com or 401-241-9631.

Friday | October 16

Temple Emanu-El Kabbalat Shabbat Spectacular via Zoom. 4:30-5 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@ teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Saturday | October 17

Temple Emanu-El Shabbat Services. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Led by HAVE AN EVENT? Go to jewishrhody.org, click on the calendar button and go to "post your event."

Temple Emanu-El clergy. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Soulful Zoom Shabbat. 10 a.m.-noon. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Zoom Havdalah.

7-7:30 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Overwhelmingly, my teachers have been obviously enthusiastic about sharing their expertise, incredibly thoughtful in their interactions with students, and excellent role models for others in our community.”

Sunday | October 18

Providence Kollel: “Life after COVID: The New Normal” via Zoom. 7:30 p.m. Rabbi Dr. Glatt will present an optimistic view of life going forward in a changed world.

A Torah scholar as well as chair of the Department of Medicine at Mount Sinai South Nassau, he is the Chief of Infectious Diseases. Information, Rabbi Raphie Schochet at rabbiraphie@gmail.com.

Monday | October 19

Conversational Hebrew via Zoom. 7-8:15 p.m. Eight sessions of conversation at four different levels. A partnership of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and Temple Emanu-El. Cost: $100 for 8 sessions (Mondays 10/19 thru 12/7).

Information, Or Cohen at ocohen@ jewishallianceri.org.

Friday | October 23

Temple Emanu-El Kabbalat Shabbat Spectacular via Zoom. 4:30-5 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@ teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Saturday | October 24

Temple Emanu-El Shabbat Services. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Led by Temple Emanu-El clergy. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Zoom Havdalah.

6:45-7:15 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Monday | October 26

Conversational Hebrew via Zoom. 7-8:15 p.m. Eight sessions of conversation at four different levels. A partnership of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and Temple Emanu-El. Cost: $100 for 8 sessions (Mondays 10/19 thru 12/7).

Information, Or Cohen at ocohen@ jewishallianceri.org.

Friday | October 30

Temple Emanu-El Kabbalat Shabbat Spectacular via Zoom. 4:15-5 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@ teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Saturday | October 31

Temple Emanu-El Shabbat Services. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Led by Temple Emanu-El Clergy. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Temple Emanu-El Zoom Havdalah.

6:35-7 p.m. Information, teprov.org, info@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

Open House: Oct. 17, 2020

Visit mosesbrown.org/admission for more information.

Moses Brown school Providence, RI Mosesbrown.org Nursery-Grade 12, Co-Ed

12 | OCTOBER 2020

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES

Ups and downs of the ‘new normal’ G OU

Running toward causes and beliefs AROUND 2005, when I was working as a college recruiter for Yeshiva University, most of the high school seniors I interviewed were planning to take a gap year to study in Israel. I usually asked them where they planned on studying.

One student told me that he had narrowed his choices to “Institution A” and “Institution B,” and in the end decided to go with Institution A. I asked him what made him choose A over B. He answered that he had consulted with a friend who was already studying at Institution B, and who told him, “Don’t go to Institution A. They’re [insert negative word here].”

The interviewee told me that in that moment, he decided to go to Institution A. He explained that if the only positive thing his friend could say about B was something negative about A, then B wasn’t the kind of place he wanted to study.

Before I go further, I want to DANIEL make it clear that STIEGLITZ I have no political agenda in this article. I’m simply sharing what I’m observing, and how it affects how I see both the United States and its political climate, and how these things affect my thoughts on the CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

S HOM R E

E

LARRY KESSLER (larrythek65@gmail. com) is a freelance writer based in North Attleboro.

PHOTO | GLENN OSMUNDSON

Political lawn signs in Rhode Island

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gram at Johnson & Wales and then moved into a dorm for her sophomore year, where she will take in-person lab classes and remote academic ones.

3. Our longtime next-door neighbors, whose kids grew up with ours, continue to be menschen – they helped our oldest daughter move to her new place. That LARRY KESSLER kind of friendship is priceless.

4. In late August, as part of my time spent volunteering with the Greater Attleboro Relay For Life organizing committee, I helped plan a charitable pop-up event, “Luminaria on the Lawn,” at the Attleboro Arts Museum.

The event – held with strict social-distancing – featured more than 100 candles lit in memory of cancer victims or in honor of cancer survivors. It raised money for the American Cancer Society and also helped the museum, which had been closed for more than four months during the lockdown.

5. My wife and kids treated me to an honest-to-goodness sit-down birthday dinner at a restaurant. The outdoor dining experience in August was our first as a family since the pandemic began, and we savored every moment.

6. I’ve enjoyed a few one-on-one outdoor picnic lunches with two good friends, something that I used to take for granted but which I now consider a blessing.

7. I’ve been texting and emailing friends to keep up on their lives and to share my stories and columns with them. Our virtual correspondence has taken on added significance since it became impossible to predict when I’ll be able to see them.

8. I’ve been able to read a few books, including “Homegrown,” by Alex Speier, about how the players who made up the 2018 World Series champion Red Sox were drafted by the team, and “Teammates,” a wonderful read by noted biographer David Halberstam about Red Sox legends Dom DiMaggio, Johnny Pesky, Bobby Doerr and the incomparable Ted Williams.

9. I’ve been enjoying watching baseball, basketball, hockey and football again, despite the Red Sox’ historically bad season and the Bruins’ early exit from the playoffs.

10. I’m still of (relatively) sound mind, which enables me to share these thoughts with the people who make it possible – you, the readers.

Now, if I can only find my sense of humor. Excuse me while I look for it somewhere under the stack of newspapers on my shelf.

T

IN THE SUMMER OF 2019, well before our lives were upended by the seemingly never-ending “new normal,” I wrote a column about how my wife and I were about to become empty-nesters. At that point, my older daughter had just left for Ecuador to start her second year of teaching, and my younger daughter was about to leave for her freshman year at Johnson & Wales University, in Providence.

Well, we did indeed wind up being empty-nesters for a while (although my daughter at college returned periodically to wash her clothes and pick up groceries). But our status abruptly changed with the arrival of the coronavirus pandemic in March. First, our younger daughter moved back home when her campus dorms shut down, and then, in late April, our older daughter was advised by the American consulate to return home from Ecuador.

As a result, our house quickly became anything but empty. Our food bill increased, our washer and dryer use doubled, and, like millions of American families, we had to learn to get along with each other while living, and at times working, under the same roof.

In those early days of the pandemic, when we naively believed that this crisis would be a temporary hardship, we thought that having our daughters home again would be short-lived. But, of course, like so many American families found out, we were in it for the long haul.

It’s now October, and a summer missing many traditional activities has yielded to a fall that is also lacking so much that we once took for granted, like a normal school experience, many high school and college sports, fans at New England Patriots games and in-person cultural, community and religious gatherings.

Today, though, instead of dwelling on the upsetting aspects of our “new normal” and our fall worries – a possible second surge in COVID-19, the anxiety caused by the bitter presidential election, the continued economic downturn and the racial protests – I’d like to balance the onslaught of 2020’s overwhelmingly negative news by sharing 10 positive developments in my life: 1. My family has remained healthy.

That deserves a prominent place on this list because as long as we stay well amid the worries of daily pandemic life, we’re ahead of the game.

2. Yes, we’re empty-nesters once again – and that’s something worth celebrating, because our change in status means that both of our daughters are progressing in their lives.

Our older daughter landed a full-time teaching position and has moved into her own place. Our younger daughter successfully completed a six-week summer make-up culinary lab pro-

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

He explained that if the only positive thing his friend could say about B was something negative about A, then B wasn’t the kind of place he wanted to study.

CONTINUED FROM PRECEDING PAGE upcoming election (which I plan to vote in).

For over 13 years, I’ve been an expatriate American observing my native country from the outside looking in. Not being in the thick of things has given me a different perspective.

In just the last few months alone, I’ve seen on social media and news outlets such as CNN and Fox News how Americans have dealt with the pandemic, protests, riots, an elevated distaste for police, a ridiculous number of shootings in Manhattan alone, etc. None of these things is new – they just seem to be happening all at once.

I have two siblings whom I love dearly. One is very pro-Trump. The other is very anti-Trump. (Yes, I’m the middle child.) The proTrump sibling is pro-Trump all day, all the time. The anti-Trump sibling is the exact opposite. With the latter, I see little to no positive posts about who they’re for. Rather, their posts are almost entirely anti-Trump.

The same is true for most, if not all, of my anti-Trump friends.

The pro-Trump sibling has invited me to right-wing events, which I’ve attended.

Not because I necessarily believe in everything that was said, but because I want to hear both sides of the dialogue. I’d do the same if the anti-Trump sibling invited me to left-wing events. I want to understand the logic from both sides. I’ve said to both of them, “Family before politics.”

I was a registered Democrat for almost my entire adult life. Until last year. In 2019, at the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles, I decided to become a registered independent. I did this because I don’t think

there are many examples of absolute right and wrong.

All politicians are human, and no human is perfect.

To this day, there is not a single human being who knows who I voted for in the 2016 presidential election. I don’t want my choice to label me. What I will say is who I considered voting for. They include, but are not limited to, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, my father (sadly, I couldn’t consider my mother since she wasn’t born in the U.S.), and other candidates who most people probably haven’t even heard of.

In December 2019, I attended the White House Hanukkah party with my proTrump sibling. Like previous events I attended with them, I worried this would label me. I even consulted with my anti-Trump friends, who gave me their blessings to go.

Not only was it a once-ina-lifetime experience, but I had a memorable time with my sibling. I would go to such an event, for a different president, with my other sibling if the opportunity presented itself.

Like the student I interviewed all those years ago, I need to hear a reason to vote for someone, not against someone else. I want to run toward causes and beliefs, not away from them.

So, what this expat American is suggesting is to give me reasons to vote for someone, not against someone. As my mother always reminds me: “You get more from honey than you do from vinegar.”

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DANIEL STIEGLITZ (dstieglitz@gmail.com) is a corporate recruiter and certified Life Coach who lives in Jerusalem. His collection of short stories, “Tavern of the Mind,” is available for paperback and Kindle purchase at Amazon. www.amzn. to/2Izssrz.

Follow us on Facebook: Jewish Rhode Island Visit us online: www.jewishrhody.org Get our monthly newsletter: Register online or send your email address to editor@jewishallianceri.org

14 | OCTOBER 2020

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

FOOD

Dairy dishes deliver taste and nutrition (Family Features) COOLER WEATHER calls for comfort foods, and it’s hard to top soups, risottos and strata for heartwarming dishes to share with the family on chilly days.

To achieve delicious taste without ditching your healthy eating plan, consider nutritionally balanced one-pot recipes like those from “Whole in One” by Ellie Krieger, several of which call for dairy to help

fuel your loved ones’ meals.

Milk is a versatile staple to have on-hand for cooking and a nutritious beverage for families with essential nutrients such as calcium that promote bone health in children and teens.

“I’m always trying to create recipes that make it easier for people to cook and eat well,” Krieger said. “As a food lover and dietitian, I’m always looking for that amazing balance between health and taste. Dairy

really can help get you there because it provides you not only great nutrition, but also great taste, texture and satisfaction.”

Turn to dairy-fueled comfort foods with recipes from Krieger like vegetarian-friendly Broccoli Cheddar Skillet Strata or easy-to-make Mushroom Stroganoff Soup. These dishes offer balanced, health-conscious ways to enjoy flavorful meals while delivering essential nutrients found in dairy.

“Milk, cheese and yogurt all contain protein, and I think most people don’t realize that a cup of milk has 8 grams of high-quality protein, which is more than an egg,” Krieger said. “When I tell people that, it’s really news to them.

Protein really is key in many ways because people are often looking to get more protein into their diets.”

Find more family meal solutions at milkmeansmore.org.

Mushroom Stroganoff Soup Recipe courtesy of “Whole in One” by Ellie Krieger on behalf of Milk Means More Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 medium shallots, chopped (about 2/3 cup) 1 package (10 ounces) white button mushrooms, trimmed and sliced 1 package (10 ounces) cremini mushrooms, trimmed and sliced 2 garlic cloves, minced 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 3/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 cup whole-wheat egg noodles 1 cup 1% low-fat milk 2/3 cup sour cream, divided 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS In soup pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 2 minutes. Add mushrooms, increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release liquid and begin to brown, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.

Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, 3/4 teaspoon salt and pepper; bring to boil. Add egg noodles and boil gently, uncovered, until noodles are nearly tender, 5 minutes.

In pitcher or medium bowl, whisk milk, 1/3 cup sour cream and flour until flour dissolves. Ladle 1/2 cup broth from pot into milk mixture and whisk well then pour milk mixture into pot. While stirring, bring to gentle boil then lower heat and simmer until thickened, 2 minutes. Season with additional salt, to taste.

Serve garnished with dollop of remaining sour cream and parsley.

Broccoli Cheddar Skillet Strata Recipe courtesy of “Whole in One” by Ellie Krieger on behalf of Milk Means More Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 3 cups whole-wheat baguette or other crusty bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 small onion, diced

3 cups chopped broccoli (1/2inch pieces, about 1/2 head) 6 large eggs 3/4 cup low-fat or whole milk 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup packed, shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. In 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add bread to skillet and cook, tossing frequently, until golden brown, about 6 minutes. Transfer bread to plate and carefully wipe crumbs out of pan.

Add remaining oil to skillet then add onion and cook until softened slightly, 2 minutes. Add broccoli and cook, stirring frequently, until it begins to soften, 3 minutes.

In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, mustard, salt and pepper. Add cheese and bread; toss to combine then pour bread mixture over vegetables in skillet.

Cover with foil and bake 10 minutes then uncover and continue baking until strata is set in center, 5-8 minutes. Remove from oven and let sit 5 minutes.

To serve, scoop out portions with large spoon or cut into wedges.

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

JEWISH ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES NEW VISUAL BRAND

There is a great deal of meaning behind every aspect of our new logo. It was designed to reflect who we are at the Alliance — and more importantly, who we are as a community.

First, we warmed up the color palette.

This creates a much more modern look and feel. We are a warm, welcoming, and accessible organization, and our new logo reflects that.

It is also important that we create a brand that is uniquely Jewish and uniquely Rhode Island. The focal point of the design is the Star of David — the most recognizable symbol of modern-day Judaism and one that deserves to be front and center in our new brand.

Placed over the star is a wave, which represents our location as the Ocean State. It also signifies a powerful force that moves energy forward. The wave, combined with the colors give the feeling of forward movement, symbolizing the strength and vibrancy of our community.

Bold. Accessible. Forward thinking. Forward moving.

Uniquely Jewish. Uniquely Rhode Island.

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

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

Roger Williams’s Legacy: Rhode Island’s Holy Places

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s every resident knows and every visitor soon discovers, the Ocean State is blessed by an almost unimaginable array of holy places. Touro, North America’s oldest surviving synagogue, first brought Betsey and me as summer visitors to Newport in 1983. But even after living in

Little Rhody for more than three decades, there are few pursuits I more enjoy than exploring our state’s synagogues, churches, and meetinghouses – especially with my camera.

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Of course what I seek to capture is transitory. What improves over repeated visits to one place or another is only my understanding of this dilemma.

Regrettably, during the pandemic, we have been unable to enter our own religious dwelling places and our neighbors’.

Perhaps this has made us only hungrier for messages and rituals of hope as well as sounds of joy and laughter.

My photo quiz may suggest that there are not as many architectural differences between synagogues and other houses of worship as is often imagined. Yes, for architectural experts and enthusiasts, there may be considerable differences of quality, but these are not limited to one tradition, period or style. Through light and darkness, intimacy and grandeur, I believe that houses of worship share so many aspirations and yearnings – though primarily those for peace.

Perhaps this ecumenical outlook is also governed by Judaism’s timeless and universal embrace. Many of Judaism’s holiest places are fragmentary or exist only within our dreams or memories. Alas, a more beautiful and just world will soon be built, but never completed in our lifetimes.

Please try to identify these holy places. A key is on page 21.

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COMMUNITY

OBITUARIES 23 | BUSINESS 26 | SIMCHAS 31

PHOTOS | GLENN OSMUNDSON

Tashlikh at Temple Sinai

Congregants gather at Goddard Park to castaway their sins

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

Sweet Sounds James Pious, chair of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, sounded the shofar for the children of the David C. Isenberg Early Childhood Center in Providence. Even the shofar was properly masked.

PHOTO | GLENN OSMUNDSON

Gap Year in Israel more popular than ever despite pandemic

BY LARRY KATZ The Wall Street Journal published an article that you may have missed while you were observing Yom Kippur. Online on Sept. 28, one of its headlines declared, “Israel Emerges as Top Destination for American Teens Amid Pandemic” The story goes on to say, “With few countries accepting U.S. students, Israel proves a big draw for those seeking meaningful experiences beyond online learning from family couches.”

The essence of the article is that many students are delaying their college freshman year (or delaying their return to campus if they already have a year or two under their belts) since they don’t want to be stuck at home taking courses online or living on a largely empty campus. They want the full college experience.

Rather than lose a semester or year of that college experience, thousands have chosen to spend the time in Israel, with others their own age. As a result, the number of Americans taking gap years in Israel has increased by 40%.

A variety of programs allow students to study in Israeli universities or yeshivot, volunteer, work in internships or a combination of these. Many include Hebrew language courses.

Year-long programs have already begun, but there are some semester programs that will begin in December and January.

The Journal quotes one New Yorker who took a minimalist approach, “Taking a gap year is a big insurance policy against college. If the gap year is great, it’s a life-changing experience. If the gap year kind of stinks, then you still have four years of college, and it’s hopefully more normal than starting college in 2020.”

However, I have never heard anyone complain that a semester or year in Israel was anything but wonderful.

For more information about potential gap year programs and/or grants and scholarships, please contact IsraelDesk@jewishallianceri.org.

LARRY KATZ (lkatz@jewishallianceri.org) is the director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

Upcoming Beth-El events go virtual

Cast Off Your Sins On the second day of Rosh Hashanah, members of United Brothers Synagogue in Bristol gathered for a pandemic tashlikh ceremony.

PHOTO | UBS

• Now in its 10th year, Temple Beth-El’s World Series Cook-off is going virtual! The event features a new theme each year and usually hosts 25 chefs competing for the approval of judges as well as glowing reviews from 150 guests at the Providence temple. This year, the virtual World Series will be held Nov. 1 from 4-5 p.m. and will feature a healthy eating theme.

The World Series of Healthy Eating includes a conversation with Pamela Salzman, a West Coast chef and popular cooking instructor. Robin Kall, of Reading with Robin, will interview Salzman about her newest cookbook, “Quicker than Quick.”

Entry to the event is $10 and Pamela’s book will be available to purchase. Higher levels of sponsorships include a copy of

“Quicker than Quick.” Proceeds benefit the Rabbi Leslie Yale Gutterman Religious School. For more information and to register, https://www.temple-beth-el.org/ event/world-series-virtual%20 event.html.

• Temple Beth-Elders is holding a special virtual event on Oct. 7 at 4 p.m. Arthur Richter will interview Guy Hanuka in his kitchen at Hope and Main in Warren. Via Zoom, Guy will explain how he has been able to grow his bakery from scratch to become so popular.

Registration is $10 and the first 30 people who register will receive a package of sample baked goods.

For information and to register, call 401-331-6070 or go to https://www.temple-beth-el.org/ event/beth-elders-virtual-eventwith-buns-bakery.html

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

Back to school for JCDSRI The Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island opened on Tuesday, Sept. 8 for full day, full week, in-person learning for students ages 3 through grade 5. It has been a truly magical start to the school year, according to parents, students and teachers. One of the new families put it best: “Best school in the world!” Those are the words their child often repeats these days. “Everyone is so good there – my teachers, the people working there and all the kids are just so nice.”

PHOTOS | JCDSRI

Getting creative at PHDS

PHOTOS | PHDS

Providence Hebrew Day School fourth- and fifth-graders enjoying creating color wheels in art class.

OCTOBER 2020 | 21

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COMMUNITY

Longtime volunteer at Israeli military bases to speak Adventures of a Sar-El Volunteer

Mark Werner

Ethics,” says, “Mark Werner is a born storyteller, and ‘A Passion for Israel’ is a continually insightful and compelling tale of a man who set out to do good and succeeded. A poignant memoir, ‘A Passion for Israel’ is a sort of ‘City Slickers’ with a Jewish twist that will tug at the heart of any committed Jew.” The Midwest Book Review called the book “an impres-

Sukkot project The Purec children work on building their Sukkah on the East Side of Providence.

Visiting Author Series. The event is made possible by a partnership with the Jewish Book Council.

For more information, contact Or Cohen at ocohen@jewishallianceri.org or 401-864-3786.

LARRY KATZ (lkatz@jewishallianceri.org) is the director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

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A Passion for ISRAEL

sively written, exceptionally well presented and impressively informative memoir that blends Israeli military history and elements of Israel travel ….”

A retired lawyer in Raleigh, North Carolina, this is Mark Werner’s third literary foray. He also wrote a book describing his first four volunteer experiences, “Army Fatigues: Joining Israel’s Army of International Volunteers,” as well as editing his father’s Holocaust memoir, “Fighting Back: A Memoir of Jewish Resistance in World War II,” by Harold Werner.

To RSVP and receive a link to the Zoom program, on Nov. 11 at 7 p.m., please visit jewishallianceri.org/ werner.

“A Passion for Israel: Adventures of a Sar-El Volunteer” is available for purchase from Amazon and Gefen Publishing.

The free program is part of the monthly Israeli Culture Series, held the second Wednesday of each month, and Behind the Book: A

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Identifications of Holy Places, from pages 16–17 1: Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Providence 2: First Baptist Church in America, Providence 3: Congregation Sons of Jacob, Providence 4: Trinity Church, Episcopal, Newport 5: Former Congregration Beth David, Providence 6: First Unitarian Church, Providence 7: Chabad House, Providence

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14 stints on Israeli military bases from 2006 to 2019.

What would motivate In his book, he describes a successful corporate lawwhat life is like for volyer to trade in his comfortable life in America to volun- unteers on Israeli army bases, starting teer for manual with his own exlabor on Israeli periences – from military bases working through for three weeks a desert sandevery year? For storm to dealing Mark Werner, an with a scorpion ardent Zionist in his bunk to and the son of a taking refuge in Holocaust survia bomb shelter vor, it's a personMark Werner during a Palesal way to show tinian missile attack. support for Israel.

Through simple activOn Nov. 11 on Zoom, ities such as packing kitWerner, author of “A Pasbags and medical supplies sion for Israel: Adventures for soldiers, filling sandof a Sar-el Volunteer,” will recount tales of an enriching bags and assembling tank antennas, the volunteers volunteer experience like no work hard to contribute to other. the defense of Israel. The Werner is the national book also tells how a camapresident of Volunteers for raderie develops between Israel, the organization the volunteers and Israeli that enables him and other soldiers as they work side Americans to serve as ciby side, and provides a roadvilian volunteers on Israeli map for others to show their military bases. During the support for Israel. program, he will be joined Rabbi Joseph Telushkin, by some of the 92 other author of “Jewish LiteraRhode Island volunteers. cy” and “A Code of Jewish Werner will tell about his

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Business Disputes

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

Your old costume can bring joy to a child in Israel

BY LARRY KATZ If your child has a costume that she or he no longer needs, consider doing something good with it, like donating it to benefit children in Israel. Your gift could bring an Israeli child some joy and happiness!

While some American Jews do not celebrate Halloween, many do dress up for the Jewish holiday of Purim. In Israel, Purim is just as popular as Halloween is in America. But, unfortunately, many families in Israel cannot afford to purchase cool costumes for their children or find the time or materials to create their own.

Last year, Or Cohen, our community shaliach, or Israeli emissary, brought many costumes to a group named A Home for Every Child, which provides a comprehensive therapeutic envelope for at-risk children and families in Israel. It is a leader in the care of high-risk children, from early childhood to adolescence, in both their homes and educational environment. The group develops expertise in preventing child abuse and sees its mission as key to a better society. Staff work with families, and, when necessary, provide a residential setting for children who are at risk.

In their thank-you letter for last year’s donation of an “impressive variety of costumes” to the group’s Moadoniot department, they wrote that the “department nurtures, educates and treats abused and/or neglected children & youth from dysfunctional families. The Moadoniot objective is to facilitate the child’s normal development, to improve interfamilial relationships, to provide a rewarding learning experience at school and to mainstream the child into regular extra-curricular educational programs. These kids need positive experiences to enrich their world.”

Having real costumes makes it that much easier for these children to fully participate with their peers.

Please bring donations to the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, or to a participating synagogue. For more information, contact Or Cohen at ocohen@jewishallianceri.org or 401-864-3786.

LARRY KATZ (lkatz@jewishallianceri.org) is the director of Jewish life and learning for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

Emanu-El to mark Simchat Torah with a unique walk

BY RONNI GUTTIN In “Gods Change, Prayers are Here to Stay,” the late Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai wrote: The Jewish people read Torah aloud to God all year long, a portion a week, like Scheherazade who told stories to save her life.

By the time Simchat Torah rolls around, God forgets and they can begin again.

Of course, it isn’t really God who forgets, it is human beings who need the reminder. So, every year at Simchat Torah we finish reading the book of Deuteronomy and begin again with Genesis.

Traditionally, to mark Simchat Torah, we dance with the Torah cradled in our arms, sing, eat sweet treats and visit with our friends. But in this year of the coronavirus pandemic, everything is different.

Temple Emanu-El and its school have acknowledged that difference, embraced it and come up with a way to create a special kind of celebration: Trekking Through the Torah, a walk on the East Side of Providence through the 54

portions of the Torah.

Emanu-El and its religious school designed 54 yard signs, one for each Torah portion, with a picture that evokes something special about the portion and a brief synopsis.

The signs will be placed in yards within about a halfmile of the synagogue. Some yards will also be decorated in the theme of the portion.

Simchat Torah falls on Oct. 11 this year. The signs will be in the yards Oct. 6-16 for people to enjoy. To request a map of the signs, email info@ teprov.org.

RONNI SALTZMAN GUTTIN is director of education at Temple Emanu-El, in Providence.

RICI to present Sy Dill Mensch of the Year Award The Rhode Island Coalition for Israel (RICI) recently announced that its “Mensch of the Year” award, presented in 2019 to now-retired RI State Police Lt Colonel Joseph Philbin, has been renamed the “Sy Dill Mensch of the Year Award” in memory of the recently-deceased pro-Israel fighter and founding RICI leader. Mary Greene, RICI president, said, “This year’s award will be going to Brian Goldman of Blue Bug Solutions for his company’s public-spirited display of RICI’s ‘STOP ANTISEMITISM’ banner on the iconic Blue Bug on Rt. 95. That banner brought a flood of new members to RICI and raised community awareness of a growing problem.” RICI will present the award at a Oct. 18 Zoom conference.

The group continues to pursue an awareness campaign against anti-Semitism. On Sept. 16, RICI leaders organized a public presentation of “The New Antisemites” to RI Sen. Elaine Morgan (R-District 34) and Rep.-elect Ramon Perez (D-District 13) at the State House.

The book is a study by the

Zachor Institute and StopAntiSemitism.org, RICI hopes community leaders will inform themselves about the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of AntiSemitism. That definition has received international approval by some 40 countries and is increasingly being adopted by U.S. governmental entities and NGOs. At the September 16 event, Morgan noted that “Anti-Semitism has gotten worse with COVID-19, but the press won’t report it.” She expressed her desire to work with RICI, and expressed an interest in introducing a resolution in the next session of the General Assembly proclaiming “RI Anti-Semitism Awareness Day.” Representative-elect Ramon Perez, who drives a taxi emblazoned with the Star of David and the Shema prayer, stated, “People say Black Lives Matter – Jewish lives matter too. Israeli lives matter.”

For information on RICI, email ricoalitionforisrael@ gmail.com.

Submitted by the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel

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COMMUNITY | OBITUARIES Alfred Budnick, 82 WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. – Alfred S. Budnick passed away on Sept. 1 at St. Mary’s Medical Center. He was the husband of Janet (Novick) Budnick for 59 years. Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, a son of the late Morris and Ida (Tinter) Budnick, he had lived in West Palm Beach for two decades after nearly 25 years as a resident of East Greenwich.

He was the father of Dean Budnick and his wife, Leanne Barrett, of East Greenwich, and the late Stacy Budnick.

He was the brother of Robert Budnick and Linda Budnick.

He was the grandfather of Caroline and Quinn Budnick.

Budnick graduated from the University of Rhode Island’s College of Engineering in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Three years later he received a master’s degree in manufacturing management from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. At URI’s 1997 commencement, the school conferred him with an honorary Doctor of Laws.

Budnick was the longtime president of Cherry Semiconductor Corporation, based in East Greenwich. He co-founded CSC’s immediate predecessor Micro Components Corporation in 1972, serving as president for the Cranston-based company while commuting from Holliston, Massachusetts. He relocated to East Greenwich in 1977 and as president of CSC, broke ground on the company’s new state-of-the-art facility, which he expanded over the years as the number of employees in Rhode Island ultimately increased from 20 to over 1,000.

By the time of Budnick’s retirement in 2000, CSC also employed an additional 1,400 individuals across the globe, while generating more than $100 million in annual sales.

In 1997 Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Almond appointed Budnick to the Board of Governors for Higher Education.

In this capacity, he was one of the 15 individuals serving three-year terms to oversee the University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College and the Community College of Rhode Island, charged with appointing and dismissing the presidents of these institutions, among other responsibilities.

Budnick believed strongly

in public service and made an active effort to connect with the community. At Temple Sinai, the Cranston congregation his family joined in 1977, he served as chairman of the education committee and the facilities committee. He also donated his time to Junior Achievement, working with social studies students at Aldrich Junior High School in Warwick, to understand business fundamentals.

These efforts continued following his move to Florida. He volunteered at SCORE Palm Beach, advising fledgling entrepreneurs who were launching small businesses. He also became a small claims court mediator for Florida’s 15th Judicial Circuit, in Palm Beach County.

In addition, he was appointed to the Safety Committee of the Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center.

Budnick was a strong advocate for physical fitness, going back to his days as a varsity tennis player at Rogers High School in Newport.

He would later become a golf enthusiast as a member of the Quidnessett Country Club in North Kingstown and then the Club at Ibis with multiple holes-in-one to his name, as well as some tournament victories. He was part of a regular bike-riding crew at Ibis, where his business acumen also led him to serve as a member of the country club community’s Finance Committee.

Throughout his life he would remain a proud graduate of URI. He served on URI’s executive committee of the College of Engineering’s Advisory Council, the advisory board for Sensors and the Surface Technology Partnership for Education and Research. He also actively participated in URI’s mentoring program, encouraging students to visit his East Greenwich facility and providing advice and direction for future careers.

In 1998 the College of Engineering named him to the first class of its Hall of Fame.

During the period between his retirement from CSC and his relocation to Florida, he re-entered the classroom to teach a class at URI. Above all else, Alfred Budnick was defined by his deep love of family. He joined his beloved wife Jan on a six-decade journey that carried them across the globe but his thoughts were never far from home. His life’s decisions always turned on their implications for those he held dear.

Alfred Budnick was a true

mensch. He will be missed deeply but his legacy will endure in many profound expressions of kindness, consideration, integrity and love.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the University of Rhode Island, Alfred S. Budnick ‘59 Scholarship Endowment. Checks should be made to the URI Foundation, sent to PO Box 1700, Kingston, RI 02881, with a note in the memo line or make a secure gift online at urifae.org.

Rachel Dwyer, 55 CRANSTON, R.I. – Rachel Dov Dwyer, of Cranston, passed away Sept. 10 at Hulitar Hospice Center, Providence, after a brief illness.

Born in Westerly, she was the daughter of Joseph S. and Rebecca Leviss Dwyer of Boston, Massachusetts.

As a child, Rachel attended Marymount International School in Paris, France, and was a graduate of Concord-Carlisle Regional High School in Concord, Massa-

chusetts, class of 1983; she later earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Northeastern University in Boston.

She worked as an administrative assistant for many years and for the past three years at Thomas Engineering in Coventry.

Rachel was an avid long distance motorcyclist and was a member of the Iron Butt Association for over 20 years. Rachel loved going on long walks and enjoyed taking CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM October 15, 2020 - March 11, 2021 Thursday Evenings 7:00 - 9:00 PM

THE REFORM TEMPLES OF RHODE ISLAND PRESENT AN INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM Offered by Temple Beth-El, Temple Habonim & Temple Sinai Learn the fundamentals of Jewish thought and practice in 18 weeks through a mix of study, discussion and practical experiences. This course is perfect for interfaith couples, non-Jews considering conversion and Jews looking for an adult-level introduction.

Faculty includes Rabbis Sarah Mack, Jeffrey Goldwasser, Gavi Ruit & Howard Voss-Altman

COST: $160 per person/$225 per couple SEATING IS LIMITED. REGISTRATION REQUIRED. (Fee includes all materials and the Joint Shabbat Dinner TBD)

For more information or to register, please contact Judith Gilson.

EMAIL: JGilson@Temple-Beth-El.org PHONE: 401-331-6070 x. 113 WEBSITE: www.Temple-Beth-El.org

CLASSES MEET VIA ZOOM THURSDAY NIGHTS 7:00-9:00 PM OCTOBER 15, 22, 29 NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19 DECEMBER 3, 10, 17 JANUARY 7, 14, 21, 28 FEBRUARY 4, 11, 18 MARCH 4, 11 RI JOINT REFORM SERVICE TBD

24 | OCTOBER 2020

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY | OBITUARIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 pictures while walking and traveling on her motorcycle.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by: a sister, Karen Dwyer Archambault and her long-time partner Jeffrey Paquette of Franklin, Massachusetts; a niece, Sarah Elizabeth Archambault of Franklin; uncles, many cousins and close friends.

Contributions in her honor may be made to Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, Inc., 345 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511 or Salvation Army, 402 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02139.

Joyce C. Fishbein, 81 SMITHFIELD, R.I. – Joyce C. Fishbein passed away on Sept. 1 at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center. She was the wife of Stanley Fishbein for 33 years. Born in Bronx, New York, a daughter of the late David and Rose (Brosman) Dallen, she had lived in Rhode Island since 1986, previously living in Florida. She was a registered nurse for 30 years.

Joyce was a graduate of Catonsville Community College and Barry University. She was a member of Mensa.

She was the mother of Michelle Johnson and her husband, Charles, of Hendersonville, North Carolina; Ronni Dowd and her partner, Lois Kirby, of Ashville, North Carolina; Terri Abbruzzese and her husband, Michael, of West Coventry; and she was the stepmother of Leslie Fishbein and her husband, Thomas Sebestyen, of Lenox, Massachusetts; and Richard Fishbein and his wife, Roberta,

of Saratoga, New York. She was the sister of Leslie Bass and her husband, the late Bertram, of Orlando, Florida. She was the grandmother of Jennifer, Joshua, Michael, Allyson, Arielle, Emma, Zachary and Dana.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 245 Waterman St. #306, Providence, RI 02906 or RI Food Bank, 200 Niantic Avenue, Providence, RI 02907.

Barbara Kaplan, 85 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Barbara Bing Kaplan, of Providence and Tucson, Arizona, and formerly of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away on Sept.

24. A native of Cleveland, Mrs. Kaplan graduated from Laurel School in 1952 and from Barnard College in 1956.

In addition to her husband of 64 years, Sidmon J. Kaplan, she is survived by four children, Janice Kaplan (Michael Allen) of Washington, D.C.; Mary Jo Kaplan (Scott Triedman) of Providence; Doug Kaplan (Amy Kaplan) of Chicago, Illinois; and Linda Kaplan (Neal Steingold) of Providence. She was also the grandmother of Satchel, Halle, Hudson, Natalie (Warren), Lucy, Cole, Cooper, Gil, Sarah and Benjamin. She was the daughter of Lucy (Joseph) and Louis S. Bing Jr., and the step-daughter of Natalie Bing.

Mrs. Kaplan worked for many years alongside her

husband who owned Landseair Travel, which was located in Halle’s department store in downtown Cleveland.

The Kaplans met at Flossie Shapiro’s dancing school when they were 13. She was a volunteer at Blossom Music Center and the Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center and enjoyed playing golf, bridge and traveling the world with her husband. Her grandfather founded The Bing Company, which was one of Ohio’s largest furniture companies.

Donations may be made in her memory to the Laurel School Library, 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122.

Maurice Oelbaum, 102 WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. – Maurice Oelbaum died Sept.

24 at Jupiter Medical Center. He was the husband of the late Erna (Seiden) Oelbaum.

Born in Ulanow, Poland, a son of the late Israel and Gertrude (Weinreb) Oelbaum, he had lived in West Palm Beach for over 30 years, previously living in Cumberland and Lincoln.

He was the owner of Maurice Furniture in Central Falls for 35 years, retiring in 1995. Maurice was a WWII Army veteran, serving in Pacific Theater. He was a member of Temple Emanu-El and the former Shaare Zedek.

Maurice was also a member of the Masons Redwood Lodge, JWV and an honorary member of Hadassah.

He was the father of Gisele Terry of Los Angeles, California, and Frances Oelbaum of Bronx, New York. He was the brother of 10 siblings.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Hadassah, 17 Pocahontas Dr., Middletown, RI 02842.

Lenore Rakatansky, 94 EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Lenore Gray Rakatansky, Rhode Island’s pioneering Modern Art gallerist, passed away on Sept. 6. Born in 1926, the daughter of Julius and Lillian (Gray) Abramson, Lenore studied drawing at The Art Students League of New York. In the 1960s she established Lenore Gray Gallery, which for six decades provided a crucial forum of expression for generations of innovative local artists.

She is survived by her daughter Lynn Rakatansky, son Mark Rakatansky and his wife Catherine Ingraham, and grandson Max Ingraham-Rakatansky. She was the wife of the late Ira Rakatansky and sister of the

late Rosalind Gorin.

Contributions may be made in her memory to The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

Sydney Resnick 94 WARWICK, R.I. – Sydney I. Resnick died Sept. 21 at Kent Regency. He was the husband of the late Frances “Pepper” Cohen. Born in Providence, son of the late Max and Sarah Resnick, he had lived in Warwick for three years, and was previously a longtime resident of Cranston.

He was an attorney at his own practice for over 50 years. Sydney was a WWII Navy veteran. He was a graduate of Hope High School, Brown University and Boston University School of Law. He was the father of David Resnick and his wife, Susan, of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and John Resnick of Wickford. He was the brother of the late Beatrice Shechtman.

He was the grandfather of Caroline and Max Resnick.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Biden/ Harris 2020 presidential campaign or charity of your choice.

Dorothy Rosen, 98 PAWTUCKET, R.I. – Dorothy (Miller) Rosen passed away Sept. 23. She was the wife of the late Milton J. Rosen. Born in Attleboro, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Annie (Merwitz) Miller.

Surviving children are Carl Rosen and his wife Susan, of Ashaway, along with grandchildren Aaron Rosen and David Rosen; and Karen Rosen of Providence. She was the sister of the late Harold, Maurice and Myer Miller.

She was a life member of RI Hadassah, at one time was named “Women of the Year.”

Contributions in her memory may be made to RI Hadassah.

Jane Sackett, 91 EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Jane Lee Cohen Sackett passed away on Sept. 16 at Tockwotton on the Waterfront.

Although born in Massachusetts, Jane spent her life in Providence. She graduated from Hope High School in 1946 with scores of friends, many of whom she remained close to throughout her life.

In 1950, she graduated from Wheelock College with high honors and a B.S. in Education (early childhood).

She worked in the Rhode Island primary school system but discovered another true passion when she formed Quinque Antiques, through which she pursued her love of creating and furnishing interior spaces (including her own home!).

Ever the trailblazer, in 1973, Jane switched gears and, at age 44, earned a master’s degree in education (guidance and counseling).

She had a fulfilling third career as a therapist, practicing in agency settings and in her own private practice.

She loved being a grandmother and spent as much time as possible with her five grandchildren, even when it meant traveling as far as Cheyenne, Wyoming. She knitted each of them elaborate winter sweaters and wrote and illustrated several books for them.

Jane was known for her joie de vivre, great sense of humor and quick wit. Her close friends will remember her favorite, the Little Red Riding Hood joke. She was a voracious reader, doing the crossword daily – in pen – and she adored cats, especially her Persians.

She was the mother of Richard Sackett, who resides in New York with his partner Ann Demarais, and Shelley Sackett, who resides in Swampscott, Massachusetts, with her partner Lenny Rotman. She was the grandmother (Nonnie) of Alexander (and great-grandmother of his son, Leo), Julia and James Sackett Roseman and Taylor and Mimi Sakarett.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the ASPCA Jane Sackett Memorial Campaign at secure.aspca. org/team/jane-sackett-memorial-campaign

Henry Saltzman, 86 NEW BEDFORD, MASS. – Henry “Pete” V. Saltzman, of New Bedford, passed away Sept. 24 at home. He was the husband of Patricia J. (Rodrigues) Saltzman, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage.

Born in New Bedford, he was the son of the late William “Watchdog” and Mary (Brunell) Saltzman.

Mr. Saltzman earned a bachelor’s degree from Clark University and a master’s degree from Bridgewater State College, and he later served in the United States Army for four years and was stationed in Germany. He worked in the family business, United

OCTOBER 2020 | 25

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY | OBITUARIES Fruit Store, until he began a teaching career. He taught math at New Bedford High School and became the Green House housemaster. He was a sports enthusiast; he coached the Panthers Little League team and could be seen in the gyms or fields at NBHS rooting on the Whalers. His happiest moments, besides spending time with his family, were watching the NBHS Whalers beat Durfee.

In addition to his wife, survivors include: three children, Kathy Hoffman and her husband Alan, Sharon Donovan and her husband Matthew and Derek Saltzman and his wife Tara, all of Lakeville; one brother, Michael Saltzman of Dartmouth; six grandchildren, William and Maggie Hoffman, Amanda Donovan, Quinn, Laincy and Shay Saltzman and several nieces and nephews.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Southcoast VNA – Hospice, Attn: Community Affairs 200 Mill Road, Fairhaven, MA 02719.

children Cindy (Bill) Smith, Cheryl (Joe) Dourado, Alan (Kim) Smith; grandchildren Scott (Mandy) Smith, Matthew (Michelle) Smith, and Brendan and Shane Smith; four great-grandchildren; siblings Richard (Libby) Smith, Barbara (Warren) Blakeley, and Beverly (Steve) Reinert; his beloved partner of 20 years Arlene Berrol and her children Avram Gleitsman and Leah Palmiter; and stepsons Larry and Michael Richter. He was loved and ad-

mired by all who knew him.

Stanley worked as a chemist at Colfax, Inc. in Pawtucket for 38 years and was also past president of The Association of Oil Chemists Society.

He was an avid tennis player and golfer who loved sports, theater, opera, and the arts and was an active and beloved member of the Friday Group.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the Tomorrow Fund, www. tomorrowfund.org.

Ethel Schwartz, 92 SWANSEA, MASS. – Ethel Schwartz died Sept. 17 at Fall River Jewish Home.

She was the wife of the late Israel “Red” Schwartz. Born in Fall River, a daughter of the late Israel and Celia (Cohen) Sanft, she was a longtime resident of Swansea.

She was an inspector for Firestone, US Records and United Merchants, retiring in 1991. Ethel also sold Avon products in her community.

She was a graduate of Durfee High School, Class of ’46. She was a former member of the JWV Auxiliary and member and former secretary of the Pioneer Women.

She was the sister of Aaron Sanft of Gilbert, Arizona, and the late Lloyd, Abraham, Louis, Sonny, William, Bertha, Ruth, Rose, Goldie and Shirley. She is survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

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

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Stanley Smith, 86

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Stanley Smith passed away Sept. 8. Born in Newport, he was a son of the late Hyman and Esther (Berman) Smith.

He was the husband of the late Sonya (Miller) Smith and Judith (Chernack) Smith.

He is survived by his

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Are the Proud Boys anti-Semitic?

Your primer on the far-right group Trump told to ‘stand back and stand by’

BY BEN SALES (JTA) – Who are the Proud Boys, the far-right group that Donald Trump name-checked at the first presidential debate? And do they hate Jews?

The answer to the second question: Some of them – including their founder – certainly do.

Let’s back up: At the debate Tuesday night [Sept.

29], moderator Chris Wallace asked Trump whether he would condemn white supremacists from the debate stage. He did not. What he did say, amid denunciations of the far-left antifa, was this: “Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, but I’ll tell you what, somebody’s gotta do something about antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem, this is a left-wing problem.”

The group Trump referred to, the Proud Boys, is a far-right, “western chauvinist” fraternal organization founded

by Gavin McInnes that supports Trump and has engaged in street violence.

Anti-Semitism is not core to the group’s ideology, but according to the Anti-Defamation League, the group has allied with white supremacists, and McInnes has made a series of anti-Semitic statements. The ADL estimates that it has several hundred members.

A former member of the Proud Boys, Jason Kessler, was the primary organizer of the 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, which Joe Biden again criticized for its anti-Semitism during the debate Tuesday.

Chapters of the Proud Boys have marched with neo-Nazis on other occasions as well.

Just as members of the Boogaloo Bois, another far-right group, frequently wear Hawaiian shirts, the Proud Boys have adopted a specific quasi-uniform, in their case a black polo shirt with yellow trim produced by the British company Fred Perry. Late last week, the company announced

that it would stop selling the shirts and issued a forceful statement reiterating its top executive’s previous condemnation of the Proud Boys.

Fred Perry, the Englishman who founded the company in 1952, “started a business with a Jewish businessman from Eastern Europe. It’s a shame we even have to answer questions like this. No, we don’t support the ideals or the group that you speak of. It is counter to our beliefs and the people we work with,” John Flynn, the company’s chair, said in 2017 and again in the new statement.

“And, in case anyone has any doubts, the Proud Boys are a virulent strain of American right-wing extremism,” ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt tweeted on Tuesday night, following the debate. “They have a long track record of violence, including in Portland this past weekend.”

He wrote that Trump “owes America an apology or an explanation. Now.” McInnes went on an anti-Semitic rant in 2017, in which he defended Holocaust denial and repeated anti-Semitic stereotypes.

The rant came in a video he originally titled “10 things I hate about the Jews.”

“I felt myself defending the super far-right Nazis just because I was sick of so much brainwashing and I felt like going, ‘Well, they never said it didn’t happen.

What they’re saying is it was much less than 6 million and that they starved to death and weren’t gassed, that they didn’t have supplies,’” he said, before adding, “I’m not saying it wasn’t gassing.”

He also blamed Jews for Josef Stalin’s starvation of millions of Ukrainians.

“I think it was 10 million Ukrainians who were killed,” he said. “That was

by Jews. That was by Marxist, Stalinist, left-wing, commie, socialist Jews.”

He then said Jews have a “whiny paranoid fear of Nazis.”

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BUSINESS & PHILANTHROPY

A brief history of our JCC

BY GERALDINE S. FOSTER THE JEWISH WELFARE BOARD, the former national association of Jewish community

centers, surveyed the facilities and programs of the Providence JCC, on Benefit Street, in 1934. Highlighted in the final report was the need

for the JCC to provide programming in the North End and South Providence.

In accordance with this recommendation, the JCC’s

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administration began planning a South Providence extension in October of that year. In space rented at various locations, activities for both children and adults were instituted. Lacking, however, was a home base that would serve as a center for the community and for activities.

(No plans were announced for services to the North End.) While negotiations were underway for the police station and property on Sessions Street as the site of a new JCC, the Jewish War Veterans offered the use of their building on Niagara Street for a South Providence neighborhood center. The offer was accepted.

The building would serve as a temporary fix until a permanent solution could be found.

The problem was unexpectedly solved, in November 1952, by an offer to rent the soon-to-be vacated police station at the corner of Potters Avenue and Hamilton Street for $1 a year, provided the JCC made necessary repairs to the building, including replacing the boiler.

The renovations began in May 1954. The building would be known as the South Side Branch, not the South Providence JCC; “one center, two buildings” was the aim. The JCC board and committee structure were enlarged to include representatives from South Providence.

Of the two structures, Potters Avenue was the more spacious. Both had administrative offices, meeting and game rooms, a kitchen and craft rooms. In addition, Potters Avenue had space for a gym, an auditorium and a nursery school.

The “Dedication Week” for the new center took place during Hanukkah, Dec. 11-18, 1955. Providence Mayor Walter H. Reynolds, and other dignitaries from the city administration, the JCC and the General Jewish Committee participated in the formal dedication ceremonies on the first day. The rest of the week saw open-house programs and a sort of meet and greet, with representatives of the different committees – from nursery school to the elderly – each hosting an event.

In its first years, the South Side Branch hummed with enthusiastic volunteers and clubs for all ages, a film series and other entertainment.

But by the middle of the next decade, it had become evident that, due to population shifts

from South Providence to the suburbs and the East Side, attendance and participation were decreasing. Questions arose in 1966 about the further usefulness of the South Side Branch.

Two other important events occurred that same year.

Plans had been underway for some time for an enlarged JCC to more adequately meet the perceived needs of the community.

After a lengthy and unsuccessful search for a suitable property, an exchange was once again arranged with the city of Providence. It involved trading the East Side property for a city-owned parcel just up the street, at the corner of Elmgrove Avenue and Sessions Street.

That same year, the board voted to change the name of the JCC from the Jewish Community Center of Providence to the Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island.

Just months later, in 1967, the South Side Branch closed.

The building was sold to a nonprofit with the proviso that the “Golden Agers” be allowed to meet there one day a week.

The new, modern and larger JCCRI was formally dedicated in 1971. In addition to meeting rooms and lounges, its amenities included a gym and a pool. In 2013, the facility was renamed the Bonnie and Donald Dwares Jewish Community Center in recognition of a $1 million gift from the Dwares.

Five decades have passed since the dedication of the building on Elmgrove Avenue, which has now grown to house the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, the R.I. Jewish Historical Association, Jewish Rhode Island, the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, community agencies, meeting space, a preschool, a pool and a gym.

In 2016, the JCC underwent extensive renovations to modernize the building and its facilities and to improve accessibility for people with physical handicaps.

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.

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BUSINESS & PHILANTHROPY

Meet the top 15 Jewish political donors in this election cycle

BY RON KAMPEAS (JTA) – George Soros may draw some of the most vociferous criticism, but he’s hardly the biggest political donor in this cash-heavy election cycle – Democrat or Republican.

In fact, Soros is 24th of the largest givers in this cycle, and Jewish donors on both the right and left populate the list above him.

That’s according to Open Secrets, which provides the top 100 individuals or married couples donating to the 2020 campaign. Among the top 25 on the list, 15 are Jewish or of Jewish origin. Here is the list, current as of Sept.

8. With the final weeks of the campaign seeing an accelerated fundraising push, the rankings could change.

Tom Steyer Amount given so far: $54 million to Democrats Steyer tops the list by far.

The hedge funder, who was among the candidates seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, has donated over $54 million to Democrats – and, intriguingly, $35 to Republicans.

Lest you think Steyer is leading this cycle because of his own campaign, he has resided in the top three since the 2014 congressional cycle, and most of his money has gone to outside groups backing an array of Democratic candidates.

Steyer, whose father was Jewish and who identifies as ethnically Jewish, is a practicing Episcopalian, although in his youth he practiced Judaism and included a rabbi in his wedding.

Stephen and Christine Schwarzman Amount given so far: $28.4 million to Republicans and $8,400 to Democrats Stephen Schwarzman is CEO of Blackstone, an investment management firm, and served on one of President Donald Trump’s council of business advisers until they all shut down after the deadly neo-Nazi march in Charlottesville in 2017.

Schwarzman told Reuters he got messages calling him a Nazi.

“It was pretty clear that the country itself felt like it was going out of control,” he said at the time. “We decided there was too much pressure for too many people all running public companies.”

His first major donation to Israel was in 2018, when he gave the National Library $10 million.

Sheldon and Miriam Adelson Amount given so far: $28 million to Republicans Sheldon Adelson, 87, is a Las Vegas-based casino magnate and Miriam, 74, is a physician. They are major givers to an array of Jewish and pro-Israel causes, as well as to medical research. Adelson’s endorse-

ment of Trump in May 2016 opened the floodgates to Jewish donors who until then had been skeptical of the candidate.

Their ongoing support for Trump has been in question: Trump reportedly berated Sheldon Adelson last month for not giving enough to the campaign as Biden’s fundraising began to outpace the incumbent’s.

But Adelson bellied up this month and has pledged $50 million to elect Republicans and send Trump back to the White House.

Adelson may be hedging his bets: He reportedly has paid $87 million for the residence of the U.S. ambassador in suburban Tel Aviv, possibly as a means of preventing Biden from moving the embassy back to that city.

Donald Sussman Amount given so far: $22.3 million, all to Democrats save for $5,600 to Republicans Sussman, 74, launched his investment career at age 12, in 1958, when he bet that the Cuban revolution would drive up the price of sugar.

He’s known for his close ties to the Clintons – he was a major backer of Hillary’s 2016 presidential campaign.

Sussman said he was dumping money into her campaign because of her pledge to take money out of politics, and he acknowledged the irony.

In his charitable giving, he appears to be particularly proud of his relationship with Israel’s Weizmann Institute, listing his position as deputy chairman of its international board of governors and his honorary doctorate from there on his official bio.

Sussman was married to a Maine congresswoman, Chellie Pingree, from 2011 to 2016 and continues to be heavily involved in the state. He has given $100,000 to groups backing Sara Gideon, who is challenging incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

Despite his stakes in the New England state (he is on friendly terms with his ex, and for a period owned MaineToday, a media company) Republicans there have endeavored to depict Sussman as an interloper, or in the state’s lingo, “from away.” In a radio interview, Collins singled out three “from away” Jews, including Sussman, as backing Gideon’s campaign.

James and Marilyn Simons Amount given so far: Nearly $21 million to Democrats James Simons has been called one of the smartest Wall Street financiers

of all time, thanks to his contributions to string theory and his application of mathematical breakthroughs to investment banking. Born to a Jewish family in the Massachusetts suburb of Brookline, Simons’ net worth is over $23 billion. He and his wife set up the Simons Foundation, one of the largest charity groups in the U.S., in 1994.

Michael Bloomberg Amount given so far: $19.3 million to Democrats Bloomberg, who runs an eponymous media empire, was a threeterm mayor of New York, elected as a Republican and then as an Independent. He endorsed Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and in his speech at the Democratic convention excoriated Trump as a con man, earning the Trump sobriquet “Mini Mike.”

Bloomberg, 78, mounted a campaign for the presidency this year and initially polled well – until he was eviscerated in his first debate by a rival, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., who depicted Bloomberg as Trump lite.

Bloomberg said this month that he will spend $100 million in Florida, a swing state won by Trump in 2016 and critical to his reelection.

He has already donated $16 million for paying the fees of former felons.

(Floridians voted overwhelmingly in a 2018 referendum to allow former felons to vote, rolling back a Jim Crow-era law. Jewish groups backed the initiative. The GOP-led legislature effectively scuttled the initiative by passing a law requiring that the ex-felons pay outstanding fines and court fees. Challenges are wending their way through the courts.) Florida’s Republican attorney general says Bloomberg’s donation may be criminal and wants the feds to investigate.

Jeffrey and Janine Yass Amount given so far: More than $13 million, mostly to Republicans Jeffrey Yass, a trader who co-founded the Susquehanna International Group, is the lone libertarian on the list. In the 2016 cycle he gave $2.8 million to Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul’s campaign.

Major beneficiaries of his largesse include Save the Children and the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank.

Deborah Simon Amount given so far: $12.5 million to Democrats Simon is the daughter of Mel Simon, the late billionaire businessman and movie producer who was involved in Jewish philanthropy. Deborah Simon and her sister, Cynthia Simon-Skjodt, have long given to progressive and Jewish causes such as the Anti-Defamation League.

Based in Indiana, Simon has been a longtime ideological opponent of Mike Pence, the vice president and former governor of the state known in

part for his anti-abortion stance. This year, she has said she will “do anything” to unseat Trump.

Simon also donates to the U.S. Holocaust Museum.

Henry and Marsha Laufer Amount given so far: $11.8 million to Democrats Henry Laufer worked closely with James Simons at his pioneering Renaissance Technologies, a quantitative hedge fund, and also became a billionaire. Marsha Laufer, his wife, was the Democratic Party chair in the Long Island, New York, town of Brookhaven for seven years. Outside of the presidential race, the Laufers have given to several individual Democratic politicians, including Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida, a former chair of the Democratic National Committee.

Joshua and Anita Bekenstein Amount given so far: Nearly $11 million to Democrats Joshua Bekenstein is a co-chairman of Bain, the global finance company co-founded by Mitt Romney, the former Republican presidential candidate and now Utah senator.

Along with his wife, Bekenstein has given to an array of candidates and PACs this cycle, as well as to the Democratic Party.

Bernard and Billi Wilma Marcus Amount given so far: $9.7 million, all to Republicans save for $6,900 to Democrats Marcus, 91, co-founded Home Depot and has long been a major donor to Jewish causes, looming large in the Atlanta area. This year he took on the Jewish Future Pledge, dedicating at least 50% of his charitable giving to Jewish causes, and his eponymous foundation gave $20 million to the Jewish Education Project to help lower the cost of youth trips to Israel.

Marcus is all in for Trump. His pro-Trump posture – he gave Trump’s campaign $7 million in 2016 – has led to boycotts of Home Depot, although he retired as the hardware chain’s chairman in 2002.

Marcus also backs congressional candidate Laura Loomer in South Florida. Mainstream GOP Jews have endeavored to ignore Loomer, who is Jewish and a self-declared Islamophobe. Trump has enthusiastically endorsed Loomer – he lives in the district.

Paul Singer Amount given so far: $8.8 million to Republicans Singer, 76, is a hedge funder who eased the Republican Party (somewhat) into accepting rights for LGBTQ people (his son is gay). He has a tenuous relationship with Trump and was the initial funder of the opposition research that led to revelations about Russian attempts to infiltrate DONORS, CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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The Bible holds secrets for success what they need to know that will make a difference for them, sparing them details not needed for the outcome.

5. Set an example. You are a role model, and your clients, customers and team members watch what you do more than what you say.

Let your deeds match your words.

6. Integrity is a key to relationship retention. You are building an emotional bank account in your relationships and integrity is the glue. Clients, customers and team members will forgive a mistake if integrity and trust have been established.

7. Give and accept constructive PATRICIA feedback. Conflict is inevitable; it is how we handle it and transRASKIN form problems into solutions that counts. The greatest decisions often arise from conflict resolution.

Diener also adds tzedakah (charity, goodwill and generosity) to his list of biblical secrets for success. He writes, “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself” (Proverbs 11:24).

As King Solomon said, “Our work is meaningless unless it is to do good.”

DONORS

that along with the Howard Dean campaign set the standard that year for online fundraising.

Within the Jewish world Soros has staked out a confrontational posture, deriding AIPAC in 2007 as overly influential and the next year becoming the main funder of J Street, a liberal rival to the pro-Israel giant.

His foundation, Open Society, has also funded civil society groups in Israel that are sharply critical of its government.

In July, Open Society pledged to spend $220 million over five years to fund racial justice groups, its response to the protests this summer against police brutality.

Soros’ newsworthiness this cycle has less to do with what he’s given and more to do with how he has become a target. Some on the right, including Trump, have leveled baseless slanders against Soros, accusing him of everything from being behind illegal immigration to rioting in cities, as well as having been a Nazi collaborator.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 the Trump campaign. But by last year he was on the Trump train, saying Democrats posed a socialist threat to the United States.

Stephen and Susan Mandel Amount given so far: $8.8 million to Democrats Stephen Mandel, a hedge fund manager, and his wife both grew up in Jewish families. Their philanthropic giving has centered on education issues. This year, in addition to donating to Democratic candidates across the country, Mandel has donated $2 million to the Lincoln Project, a PAC founded by former Republicans to prevent Trump from winning reelection.

George Soros Amount given so far: $8.2 million to Democrats Soros, 90, is a Hungarian-born Holocaust survivor who made his billions as a hedge funder. He launched his philanthropy in the 1970s, advancing democratic movements in South Africa and then as the Soviet empire began to crumble, in Central and Eastern Europe. His emphasis was the introduction of free markets, which first earned him praise from conservatives.

That dissipated once he turned his attention to liberal and Democratic politics, and especially when he spoke out against the Iraq War launched by President George W. Bush in 2003.

He spent a record $27 million in 2004 to oust Bush, including millions to MoveOn, the group

NG

L

I WAS INSPIRED by the article “7 Biblical Secrets to Business Success” at Aish.com. Bob Diener, the author of the article, as well as the book “Biblical Secrets to Business Success,” writes, “Everything I needed to be successful in business I learned in Jewish Day School.” He went on to list the seven secrets, which are: 1. Do your homework.

2. Treat your employees fairly.

3. Have the highest level of customer service.

4. Be honest with customers.

5. Always act as if you are being watched.

6. Build a reputation for integrity and honesty.

7. Be humble: accept and encourage criticism.

Here is my adaptation of these principles: 1. Know to whom you are talking, what they need and the composition of their company.

Have a clear purpose for your call or meeting and have a picture of what a win-win solution would look like.

2. Treat your clients, customers and team members fairly. Win-win solutions apply here as well. You are all in this together, and they will work with you if they feel that the conditions are fair and equitable.

3. Give the best customer service to both your internal clients (team members) and your external clients (customers). Listen with empathy and work to solve problems and move forward.

4. Honesty wins trust. Tell your clients, customers and team members the truth. Share

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.

Steve and Connie Ballmer Amount given so far: $7.5 million to Democratic groups Steve Ballmer is the former Microsoft CEO and current owner of the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers. His mother was Jewish and, through her, he is related to the late Jewish comic Gilda Radner. At Microsoft, he sat on a council of world leaders convened by the Jewish National Fund and made multiple trips to Israel to ramp up Microsoft operations there.

This year, almost all of Ballmer’s giving – $7 million – went to Everytown for Gun Safety Victory Fund, the PAC associated with the gun control advocacy movement. Connie Ballmer gave $500,000 to Unite the Country, a PAC that is supporting Biden.

5 facts about donor advised funds

BY SARA MASRI DONOR ADVISED FUNDS have quickly become one of the most popular charitable giving vehicles in the U.S., according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy. In the first nine months of 2020 alone, donor-advised fund-holders at the Jewish Federation Foundation made over 300 donations to their DAFs totaling almost $700,000.

Why are DAFs so popular? Here are five reasons:

1

DAFs are easy to set up. At the Jewish Federation Foundation, a DAF can be created with just $2,500 and the balance has to remain at or above $1,000.

You can contribute to it via check, credit card or stocks.

Others can donate as well, so you can ask for gifts to your DAF in honor of a birthday or other occasion.

2

DAFs are your philanthropic bank account. At the end of the year, many of us pull out our checkbooks, laptops or phones to make charitable donations. With a DAF, you can make all your donations on one website with just a couple of clicks. Funds can be set aside in advance and are then available any time you want to send a contribution to a charity. In addition, you get the tax benefit when you make donations to the fund without worrying about collecting tax receipts from every organization you support.

3

DAFs are appropriate for donors of any age. Unlike many planned-giving vehicles, donor advised funds can be used by philanthropists of any age.

At the Jewish Federation Foundation, grandparents have established DAFs in honor of a grandchild’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah. There are also fund-holders in their 20s and 30s using DAFs to contribute to progressive causes that they are passionate about.

4

DAFs are a family philanthropy opportunity. When you start a DAF, you can name a successor adviser – someone who will make philanthropic decisions for your fund when you are no longer able to. This creates an opportunity to have conversations with younger generations about the legacy you want to leave in the community. With a DAF in place, this successor adviser will have the resources to continue your giving.

5

Jewish Federation Foundation DAFs give back to the Jewish community. All of JFF’s DAF funds are invested with the endowment of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. By choosing to create a DAF with the Jewish Federation Foundation, you are investing in the Jewish community and showing your support of its mission and values.

If you are interested in establishing a DAF, please contact Sara Masri or Claire Uziel at 401-421-4111.

SARA MASRI (smasri@jewishallianceri.org) is chief development officer at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

OCTOBER 2020 | 29

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

BUSINESS & PHILANTHROPY

How to talk with family about money RS & S

SE

DO

LA

their goals and priorities, and to ask questions of each other in a non-judgmental, non-threatening way. This helps to establish common ground.

• Take it seriously, but make it non-threatening. Try to make the discussion fun.

Maybe have a nice glass of wine to get started.

• Wade in gradually. Don’t feel the need to solve everything all at once. Choose a few topics to focus on first.

• Practice. The more frequently a couple discusses money, the more comfortable they are likely to become with those conversations.

JASON E. Always remember to SIPERSTEIN schedule the next “money talk” before concluding a discussion.

• If the conversation takes a turn for the worse, mutually agree to table it. Don’t be afraid to call a meeting early. Talking about money can get heated, and it is important to make this exercise enjoyable and repeatable.

• Share resources. To develop common ground and a common language around money, start using the same household finance apps (like Mint, for example). Share books, podcasts and other sources of knowledge about household finance, investing, etc. Then discuss some of the key things you have

EN

L

IN A SURVEY of 1,200 Americans, the Capital Group, an investment manager, found that people are more comfortable talking about marital problems, mental illness, drug addiction, race, sex, politics and religion than they are about money.

But money and household finances are among the most important topics that families and couples should be discussing, especially during periods of economic stress. Open, honest conversations about finances can produce a range of benefits for the people involved, including reducing stress and anxiety, and aligning couples and families around common goals, which in turn better positions them to fulfill those goals.

Here are some suggestions for starting and sustaining a healthy dialogue about financial issues: • Air your aspirations. What do you and your spouse or partner aspire to do with your lives and your money? What goals do you have for the near, middle and long term? How do you envision your lifestyle now and later in life? These kinds of questions can help frame the discussion. Once you’ve made a list of your goals, prioritize them. Be sure each person has an opportunity to explain

learned from these resources.

• If you have kids, get them thinking about money, too. Talking about simple money issues with even young children lays the groundwork for healthy, transparent discussions throughout life. Eventually, those discussions should include issues such as wealth transfer, end-of-life considerations and other weighty intergenerational topics. These issues are likely to be easier to discuss if parents and children already feel comfortable talking about money. Here again, it’s important to carve out time in advance to have these discussions. Invite everyone to bring questions and refer to all the items above to frame the discussions.

• Enlist the help of a knowledgeable, objective financial professional for expertise and guidance, and as a sounding board and a neutral third party. For their financial know-how, perspective and experience, and their ability to help sort through issues you can’t resolve and to answer questions, a financial professional is an invaluable resource.

To find a Certified Financial Planner in your area, check out www.PlannerSearch.org.

JASON E. SIPERSTEIN, CFA, CFP, is the president of the Financial Planning Association of Rhode Island and president of Eliot Rose Wealth Management.

Barry Schiff new president of GPHFL Barry Jay Schiff has been elected president of The Greater Providence Hebrew Free Loan Association (GPHFL). Schiff was integral in revitalizing Providence Hebrew Free Loan and strengthening the organization. He was part of the team that helped merge Providence Hebrew Free Loan with South Providence Hebrew Free Loan creating GPHFL. Schiff will continue to work to expand awareness of its programs.

Schiff was elected unanimously to replace Stevan Labush. Labush will continue to provide guidance and wisdom as a member of the Board of Trustees. Schiff, a local business owner, is a board member of Touro Fraternal Association and past president of the Brotherhood of Temple Beth-El in Providence.

GPFHL offers interest-free loans for members of the Jewish community in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Those interested in becoming members or who would like to request a loan application may call 401384-7251.

The year 5780 was certainly a wild ride; we had 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

Business and Professional Directory

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OCTOBER 2020 | 31

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

SIMCHAS

An evening with Guy Raz: American journalist & NPR radio host Wednesday, November 18 7:00pm

Join Rabbi Sarah Mack for an intimate conversation, featuring Raz’s latest release, How I Built This WEDDING – Daniel Freeman and Danielle Silberman were married on July 5, in Asheville, North Carolina. Daniel is the son of Lisa and Ron Freeman of West Warwick, and Danielle is the daughter of Bonnie and Phil Silberman of Greenville, South Carolina. The couple reside in Pennsylvania.

$36 includes an original signed copy of How I Built This, entry to the program, and a contribution to the COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund.

Sign up today at: https://bit.ly/3669Nyq Registration closes Friday, October 30th. Sign up soon to ensure your book* is available for pick-up prior to the event.

For more information, contact Robin Homonoff at robin.readingwithrobin@gmail.com − with “Guy Raz inquiry” in the subject line. *Books will be available for pick-up at Temple Beth El: 70 Orchard Avenue, Providence

MAZEL TOV - First cousins, Andrew Joseph Sarro and Lauren Kate Bavaro were called to the Torah as B’nai Mitzvot in Boca Raton, Florida, on March 7. Andrew is the son of Carrie and John Sarro. Lauren is the daughter of Lisa and Keith Bavaro.

Andrew and Lauren are the grandchildren of Linda and Harvey Feldman of West Warwick; Evelyn Sarro of Cranston and the late Joseph Sarro; the late Anthony and Kathy Bavaro.

Family and friends enjoyed this miracle milestone, as they all gathered for the last time, one week before the COVID-19 shutdown.

�e most important thing you can do while you’re here is to ensure the world will be better when you’re not.

One of life’s great achievements is the ability to leave a lasting legacy.

We can help.

Contact President and CEO Neil Steinberg at nsteinberg@rifoundation.org or (401) 427-4007

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