Peter Zeldin | 401-421-4111, ext. 160 pzeldin@jewishallianceri.org
CONTRIBUTORS Bob Abelman, Ruth Marris Macaulay, Sarah Greenleaf, Robert Isenberg
COLUMNISTS Michael Fink, George M. Goodwin, Patricia Raskin, Rabbi James Rosenberg, Daniel Stieglitz
VOLUME XXXII, ISSUE IX
JEWISH RHODE ISLAND (ISSN number 1539-2104, USPS #465-710) is published monthly except twice in May, August and September.
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The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, President/CEO Adam Greenman, Chair Marisa Garber, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906. 401-421-4111; Fax 401-331-7961
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Ushering out summer and 5785
YOU KNOW THE EXPRESSION “Those lazy, hazy days of Summer”?
Well, it’s been the crazy days of summer for me this year.
It turns out the original expression is part of a song made popular by Nat King Cole, “Those Lazy-HazyCrazy days of Summer.” I have no idea how it became part of the background of my life except the possibility that my mother might have listened to the record years ago. She was a big Nat King Cole fan.
Nobody remembers the crazy in lazy-hazy-crazy but crazy is the only word that describes this summer. Summer has flown by, and it has been busy. Some readers still ask if we publish in the summer. Years ago, the paper shut down for the month of July. No more. Summer is as busy as ever. Instead of a relaxing end of summer, we were producing the issue you are reading now with its High Holy Days content and advertising as well as our annual Guide to Jewish Living (look for that in your mailbox right after Rosh Hashanah). Summer is the season when you want to try to get out and enjoy New England at its best, despite this year’s heat: birthday parties, beach trips, baseball games and visits with far-flung family. But all too soon it’s Labor Day, and we are staring down the High Holy Days. It seems as if I was just looking for graduation photos from local schools, and now everyone will be back to school as you read this paper.
That is what I mean by “crazy days of summer!” I hope your summer was a little lazier.
If you want to relive some of the fun in our community in the waning moments of August, check out the carnival photos from the Alliance’s J-Camp as well as some photos from Camp Gan Israel, the camp of Chabad of West Bay, which is held at Congregation Torat Yisrael. And the guests of the Kosher Café at the Dwares Jewish Community Center had a great time last week at their annual Prom. A dance party and lunch were enjoyed by all. Those photos are in this issue, too.
With the end of August and the beginning of September comes the beginning of Elul, the lead-up to the High Holy Days and a time set aside for introspection. No matter your level of Jewish observance, we can all use a little time to think about where we have been this year and where we aim to go. I’ve written before about how I have the opportunity as editor of this publication to exercise this sort of self-examination twice in a year: right now, during Elul as the calendar turns to 5786, and again at the beginning of 2026. Personally, it’s been a year of ups and downs. We added a grandchild last August and he is holding his own with his three sisters and one
cousin. Family gatherings are even more chaotic now – in a good way! And July and August saw a string of birthdays and anniversaries to relish. Sadly, I lost my mother in the spring. She was often the first one to call and comment on these columns when the paper reached her mailbox. I miss her dearly, especially as I’ve made several trips home to clean out her things.
As the oldest child, I’ve vowed to make an extra effort to try to keep in touch with our extended family and keep everyone connected. And look to a better year ahead.
At Jewish Rhode Island, we try to stay away from political advocacy. I’ve talked to some area rabbis about this issue since the IRS now says it will no longer fine nonprofits that advocate for political candidates. Those I spoke with say they won’t be changing their policy to stay away from supporting candidates but will still advocate for issues.
I hope in the new year we can strive for more civility and a return of the hostages. Two simple asks that cut across all views.
Wishing you and your family l’shanah tovah!
Fran Ostendorf, Editor
Temple Emanu-El’s Rabbi Friedman ‘radiates warmth and a genuine love for people’ UP FRONT
BY SARAH GREENLEAF
At 28, Rabbi Alex Friedman brings a passion for Jewish tradition, music and community to Temple Emanu-El in Providence. Raised in Austin, Texas, and trained at the Jewish Theological Seminary, Friedman is committed to expanding educational opportunities and helping people find meaning through Torah study in an increasingly complex world.
“I THINK THAT we are experiencing a crisis of meaning. I think that we are having a hard time as a society dealing with senses of scale and of right and wrong. I think that we are having a crisis of communication, of learning to talk to each other about difficult things. I think that many of us feel unmoored historically; we think that we’re the only ones who’ve ever felt this way. And I think that studying Torah in community with other people having conversations that are difficult, not in the sense of harmful or hurtful, but just difficult, because they’re about things that matter. I think it is a skill that Torah requires us to build, and I think it allows us to build solidarity between the past and the present and think of our lives more in context.”
Though he grew up in “not a particularly observant family” he attended religious school from pre-K through high school and as a kid prided himself on his perfect attendance record. His rabbi, who was originally a cantor, Rabbi Neil Blumoff, had an enormous influence on Friedman. It was really his time in USY when he, “fell in love with being Jewish and doing Jewish with Jews, and didn’t see another way to be in the world. I just wanted to do that. I had a lot of Jewish pride before then, then I started developing more Jewish practice.”
Friedman describes Jewish pride as attending shul on the High Holy Days, feeling bad about eating pork, feeling solidarity with Jews around the world. “You
know, my parents might use the phrase like, ‘A nice Jewish boy.’ So that’s Jewish pride.”
Jewish practice to Friedman means attending shul more often than once a year, showing up to programming around a synagogue, caring about “tzedakah”, learning some Hebrew and engaging in more mitzvot. “There’s nothing wrong with either approach. It’s just there. I started with one and continued with the other.”
One of the things Friedman returned to was his love of the musicality of Jewish services. “I’m also deeply moved by what I like to call the sonic memory of the Jewish people, which is, if you walk into shul on Kol Nidre, and somebody came up and sang Kol Nidre to the tune of the happy birthday song, it would not feel like Yom Kippur, right? It doesn’t work. There’s magic in it, right? There’s this really sacred beauty to it that requires the music to be taken seriously.”
As a child Friedman remembers seeing his then-cantor’s face in the newspaper, mid-song. He knew, even if he didn’t know what the words meant, that they were important. The beauty was what cued people into the importance. “Music is amazing because it’s a bunch of people breathing together, and it requires that physicality. Joy Weisenberg likes to say that it’s a bunch of people vibrating their bodies and bones in the same way at the same time, just profoundly connecting.”
By high school Friedman knew he wanted to be a rabbi
when he realized that he enjoyed doing the kinds of things that rabbis do a lot. “I enjoyed meeting people and learning their stories and listening to them (so being interviewed is strange), and I enjoy public speaking, and I enjoy reading, and the academics behind Torah study, all of those things were really interesting to me.”
He was also drawn to, “the Jewish sense that we are all responsible for one another. We didn’t invent it, but I think that’s crucial, and I love how seriously we take it.”
After graduating from Brandeis, Friedman took a gap year to attend the Conservative yeshiva in Jerusalem, which he described as a “lovely institution.”
When COVID began, he returned to the United States and began rabbinical school online. He moved to New York City and “sat in my apartment with my laptop for a year on Zoom.” He spent his third year of rabbinical school at JTS in Israel, and in the years that followed he
spent time all over the country interning and working from New Jersey to Seattle.
As a rabbi he is “very interested in the personality in the Torah . . . in talking about the meaning behind our liturgy, because I think sometimes we can just kind of recite it but not think about it.”
The Conservative movement appealed to Friedman, “I am taken by the Conservative movement’s approach of taking tradition very seriously without being trapped into morally dangerous territory.”
He describes a time during the interwar period when many soldiers who had gone off to war were missing in action, creating the “agunah” crisis for many women. The Conservative movement decided that it was important that these women, who had lost their husbands but did not know their fate, would be able to move on with their lives by annulling their marriages in absentia. “I think that it matters to me, both that we cared enough about
the “halakhah” of being married, that it was a problem we needed to solve and that we cared enough about the humanity of another person that we were willing to solve it.”
Friedman fell in love with Torah through Midrash and found the stories really beautiful even if he didn’t always understand the technical reasons for their existence. He became obsessed with different characters for years at a time.
“For a long time, I was really interested in Joseph and Jacob. Right now, I’m on a kick with Hagar. I think Hagar is amazing.” It was the interpersonal narratives that really struck him, “watching people try to behave with one another and often fail. It’s amazing that the Torah is a book of people who are not perfect. There’s not much to learn from people who are perfect.”
About a month before he moved to Providence, Friedman was married to his husband, Yacov Steinberg, a
Rabbi Alex Friedman
PHOTO | SARAH GREENLEAF
Good bones: Solidifying our essence with strength
As one anxious mother, poet Maggie Smith, watched her children grow up in an increasingly conflicted world she channeled her angst into words: Life is short and the world is at least half terrible, and for every kind stranger, there is one who would break you, though I keep this from my children. I am trying to sell them the world. Any decent realtor, walking you through a real [fixer-upper], chirps on about good bones: This place could be beautiful, right? You could make this place beautiful. (“Good Bones,” Maggie Smith, 2017)
AS WE PREPARE to enter 5786, we must remember that we can make this place beautiful. We are no strangers to our challenges. This summer has brought what feels like endless angst and suffering in Israel and in Gaza. Violence and divisiveness abound. Personally, we have experienced illness, hurt and loss in the past year. But Elul is here to remind us that the world has good bones. We don’t deny the ugliness, but we do open our eyes and our hearts to the beauty that exists at the core. For in the year past we have also found kindness and community. Friendship and love. And also hope – to see the good bones and proclaim “this
place can be beautiful.”
'VAR TO RAH
The Hebrew word for “bones” captures this sentiment. The root “ETZM” means essence. In the Torah we read the phrase “b’etzem ha yom ha zeh” to describe the essential transformative nature of a holy day. Atzmaut, or independence, is based on the same word. To be independent is to solidify one’s essence. Etzem is what is inner and essential. Incidentally, it is also the root for the word “otzma” meaning strength. When we know what is essential, we find our strength.
Our bones hold us up and carry us forward. They are our strength and our core.
And even when broken they can magically knit back together again.
A few years ago, I had a stress fracture in my foot, a common and minor injury. Certainly, less severe and painful than the breaks I know many of you have suffered and healed from in the past. What I found remarkable about the hairline crack in a small bone in my foot is that it couldn’t be seen at the moment of its worst brokenness. Only when healing had begun could the doctor confirm the break where the bone showed repair.
This sacred season is about checking in on our bones. It is an x-ray of our inner selves. Where are we broken? How have we healed? Where do we have yet to heal? What is so important to us that we hold it in our bones?
The patriarch Joseph lived most of his life in Egypt. He assimilated to Egyptian culture. He became part of the pharaoh’s court but always felt a stranger in his new land. His dying wish, at the end of Genesis, was to make sure his bones were brought out of Egypt. He wanted to be buried in the land of his fathers. Moses doesn’t forget this promise. Joseph’s bones are carried across the sea and through the desert. One rabbi points out that since the word for bones also means essence it was really Joseph’s essence that Moses carried with him. That is what gave him the strength to receive the Torah (Shney Luchot HaBrit, Vayeshev,
Miketz, Vayigash, Torah Ohr 111).
We, too, hold memories in our bones. The essential love and wisdom of those who have come before nourishes and sustains us on our journeys.
For those who love detective novels and podcasts as I do, you will know that bones tell a whole story of our lives – where we have lived, even what we have eaten. They tell the story of our hurts and their repair. Bones tell the story of our strengths and our weaknesses and even of our potential.
Bones can also tell a story of compassion and kindness. Anthropologist Margaret Mead was asked by a student about the earliest sign of a civilized society. Mead replied that the first sign of civilization is a healed human femur – the long bone that connects the hip to the knee. Mead explained that wounded animals in the wild would be hunted and eaten before their broken bones could heal. A human with a broken leg would have had to have had someone else to provide food, water and care for a protracted period for the bone to heal. So, a healed femur is a sign that a wounded person received care and assistance from others. When we help others to mend, it heals us as well. When we can reach out to hold another person’s hand, to walk with someone through suffering we
ourselves are strengthened. Caring for another is itself a powerful salve for the soul.
Bones remind us that what is concealed on the inside, is often the most important part. Our essence, our core is what we bring to the world.
We are all fixer-uppers and we can’t deny the world needs some repair too.
As much brokenness surrounds us, we must remember that there are still good bones. This New Year, whatever the world sends our way, we can commit: we can make it beautiful.
Greater Rhode Island
September 6 6:50pm
September 13 6:38pm September 20 6:25pm September 27 6:13pm
Candle lighting times September 2025 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
student of social work at the University of Haifa in Israel. Steinberg is a dual citizen and the two met at New York Pride a few years ago where Friedman took a photo of him. That photo, years later, resurfaced online, and Friedman reached out to him to tell him he had been the photographer. The two connected that way and they were married at the New Jersey shul that Friedman’s family attended for over 60 years. “My grandparents got married there. My parents got married there, and we got married there,” he said. One of Friedman’s interests is queer Torah; “All of human experience is reflected in the
Torah, all of it. Queer Torah is the practice of taking that seriously and saying, okay, one of the human experiences that in our tradition has largely not been paid that much attention to, is the experiences of LGBT people and their experiences are in there too, right?”
While some may focus on whether there are LGBTQ+ people in the Torah, Friedman explains that it is the experience that is being read, not necessarily the characters. He points out that Joy Ladin, who wrote “The Soul of the Stranger” would say there’s such a thing as a transgender experience regardless of whether there are trans people in the Torah.
“So, Abraham, for example, what does he do that a trans person might recognize in order to become the person who he wants to be? He changes his body, he changes his name, and he doesn’t do what’s expected of a firstborn son, which is namely, to take over his father’s business.
“He leaves home. Joy Ladin says that’s a trans experience. So, I mean, is Abraham trans? No! It doesn’t matter if he’s trans, right? What matters is that experience is really profound and interesting and is relatable to a person who is trans.”
When talking about what he’s excited to work on at Temple Emanu-El, Friedman lights up, discussing
the opportunity to expand educational opportunities for people of all ages, working with kids, getting involved with “a wonderful group called Boomers and Beyond,” continuing the fabulous work of Cantor Brian Mayer and thinking very seriously about the musical life of the synagogue, and expanding pastoral opportunities to help people through moments of crisis.
“Rabbi Friedman radiates warmth, a genuine love for people and a deep respect for Jewish life and learning,” said Rabbi Michael Fel, senior rabbi of Temple Emanu-El. “Whether through a quick-witted, kind-hearted joke, a well-placed Talmudic
reference, or a clever pun, his charm draws you in – inviting deeper engagement with him and with the richness of Judaism. I look forward to partnering with him as we lead Temple Emanu-El into its second century of serving the Jewish people.”
As Friedman said, “I think we need Torah now, and we needed Torah before, but I think we need it now more than ever, and I’m excited to help facilitate that.”
SARAH GREENLEAF (sgreenleaf@jewishallianceri. org) is the digital marketing manager for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and writes for Jewish Rhode Island.
SARAH MACK is the senior rabbi at Temple Beth-El in Providence.
RABBI SARAH MACK
CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
Ongoing
Kosher Senior Café and Programming. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday – Thursday at the Bonnie & Donald Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence; Fridays at Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. In-person (and on Zoom most Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) programming 11 a.m.-noon followed by lunch and discussion noon-1 p.m. On Wednesdays, programming is chair yoga. No café dates: 9/23, 9/24, 10/2, 10/7, 10/8. For seniors aged 60 and older as well as younger adults with a disability; all faiths and backgrounds are welcome. Suggested donation: $3 per lunch. The Kosher Senior Café is a program of Jewish Collaborative Services, supported by the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI and Blackstone Health. Information and RSVP, Neal or Sherri at neal@jcsri. org or 401-421-4111, ext. 114.
Temple Emanu-El Mah Jongg. Tuesdays (with the exception of holidays). 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Information, Shoshana Jacob at shosh@teprov.org or 401331-1616.
Hebrew Classes Fall Session at Temple Emanu-El. Tuesdays 9/2 thru 11/11. Beginner class 5-5:45 p.m. All other levels 6-7 p.m. 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Five levels of in-person Hebrew conversation classes: Beginner, Introduction to Prayerbook Hebrew, Advanced Beginners for Spoken Hebrew, Intermediate and Advanced. Cost: $100 per person plus cost of book; scholarships available. Information, Toby Liebowitz at tobyaane@gmail. com.
Temple Beth-El Teen Night. Thursdays 6 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Conversation and dinner. Information, Jude Weinstein at jweinstein@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070.
Cape Cod Synagogue Family Shabbat Services and Dinner.
Second Friday of the month 5:30 p.m. 145 Winter St., Hyannis, Mass. In-person and livestreamed services on website, Facebook, Cape Media, YouTube and Community Television Comcast channel 99. Followed by community Shabbat dinner. Information, 508775-2988 or capecodsynagogue. org.
Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat and Torah Services. Fridays 5:45-6:15 p.m. Via Zoom only. Information, temple@toratyisrael.org.
Winter St., Hyannis, Mass. With Rabbi David Freelund. In-person and livestreamed on website, Facebook, Cape Media, YouTube and Community Television Comcast channel 99. Information, 508-7752988 or capecodsynagogue.org.
Temple Beth-El Torah Study. Most Saturdays 9 a.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Join Temple Beth-El clergy and delve into the weekly portion. Information, Jude Weinstein at jweinstein@templebeth-el.org or 401-331-6070.
Temple Torat Yisrael Shabbat Services. Saturdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Join in person or via Zoom. Information, Temple@ toratyisrael.org.
Temple Sinai Breakfast and Torah Study. Saturdays 9:30-11 a.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Breakfast followed by weekly Torah study at 10 a.m. Information, Templesinairi. org, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Temple Habonim Torah Study. Saturdays 10-11 a.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman leads Torah study on current portion. Via Zoom. Information, Adina Davies at office@ templehabonim.org or 401-2456536.
Cape Cod Synagogue Shabbat Services. Saturdays 10:30 a.m. 145 Winter St., Hyannis, Mass. With Rabbi David Freelund. In-person and livestreamed on website, Facebook and YouTube. Information, Cape Cod Synagogue at 508-7752988 or capecodsynagogue.org.
Friday | September 5
Temple Sinai Bar’chu and Barbeque. 5-8 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Open house including kids’ activities and a short service at 5:30 p.m. Meet up with your friends and make new ones. Cost: $18 adults; $10 kids under 12; free for kids under 4; $54 family max. Information and RSVP, Dottie at dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.
Temple Beth-El Membership Barbeque and Kabbalat Shabbat Service. 5-7:45 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Noshing and mingling followed by service at 5:45 p.m. Festive barbeque will follow the service. Dinner is complimentary for new members and those considering joining. Information, Jude Weinstein at jweinstein@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070.
Temple Habonim Shabbat by the Sea. 5:45 p.m. Barrington Beach,
87 Bay Road, Barrington. Bring a chair or blanket, and welcome Shabbat on the beach. In case of inclement weather, the services will be moved inside to Temple Habonim (165 New Meadow Road, Barrington). Information, office@ templehabonim.org.
Saturday | September 6
Temple Sinai Morning Shabbat Service. 11 a.m.-noon. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Join us in the chapel as we read the Torah portion of the week. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Sunday | September 7
Temple Torat Yisrael Annual Congregational Cookout. Noon-2 p.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Menu (subject to change): grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, hot dogs, veggies, potato salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, chips. All are welcome. RSVP (by 9/4) and information, Temple@toratyisrael. org.
Rhode Island Coalition for Israel presents “A Night to Honor Israel.” 7 p.m. Praise Tabernacle Church, 330 Park Ave., Cranston, RI. Featuring Kasim Hafeez, a British Muslim who went from being deeply anti-Israel to becoming one of the nation’s most passionate advocates for the Jewish state. Free. Information, 401-781-1565.
Tuesday | September 9
Rhode Island Coalition for Israel: Hostage Walk/Run for Their Lives. 5 p.m. Lippitt Memorial Park, 1015 Hope St., Providence. Run For Their Lives is a global network/walk calling for Hamas to immediately release the hostages. Please join us. Flags and signs will be provided. Free but suggestion donation to RICI. Information, Patti at angus174@yahoo.com.
Friday | September 12
Jewish Alliance Hosts Blood Drive. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bonnie & Donald Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Donations by appointment. (Use sponsor code 1528.) Walk-ins welcome if availability permits at time of arrival. Eat, drink and bring photo ID. All donors will receive a $10 Whole Foods gift certificate, and RIBC will donate $1 to The Tomorrow Fund, supporting children fighting cancer. Information, ribc.org or 401-4538383.
Temple Torat Yisrael Youth Shabbat Service and Potluck
Dairy Dinner. 5:30-7 p.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Innovative, creative program led by Rabbi Saks intended for families with children of Hebrew school age and the entire congregation. Followed by a potluck dairy dinner. Free. Information, Temple@ toratyisrael.org.
Temple Beth-El Jacob’s Ladder Shabbaton. 5:45-7 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Join us on the front lawn for a special evening with Jacob’s Ladder. The program will include Kabbalat Shabbat service. All are welcome. Information, Jude Weinstein at jweinstein@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070.
Temple Sinai Evening Service. 6-7 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Join us in the Chapel where the topic will be making the High Holy days meaningful. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Saturday | September 13
Temple Sinai Morning Shabbat Service. 11 a.m.-noon. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Join us in the chapel as we read this week’s Torah portion. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Musical Havdalah, Concert and Selichot with Jacob’s Ladder. 8-10:30 p.m. Brown/RISD Hillel, 80 Brown St., Providence. Welcome the High Holy Day season with Congregation Beth Sholom, Temple Emanu-El and Temple Beth-El at Brown/RISD Hillel with ecstatic and joyful music, and stay for the spiritually uplifting community. Information, Emily Goldberg Winer at EmilyGW@bethsholom-ri.org or 954-980-0401.
Temple Sinai Selichot Service. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. 10-11 p.m. Join us in the Sanctuary for our Selichot service with Shireinu. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.
Sunday | September 14
Temple Torat Yisrael Adult Ed with Rabbi Saks. 9-10 a.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Topic to be determined. Information, Temple@toratyisrael.org.
Ave., Providence. Family-friendly festival. Live performances from Nefesh Mountain, Ezekiel’s Wheels and the Rachel Linsky Dancers. KidZone will include Rock-a-Baby, face painting and a jumpy house. Discover unique finds from local arts and crafts vendors. Make a shofar. Enjoy a whiskey tasting. Delicious food and beer will be on sale. Free. All welcome. Information, Samantha Kaufman at skaufman@jewishallianceri.org.
Friday | September 19
Temple Sinai Evening Service. 6-7 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. In the sanctuary, Rabbi Goldwasser will be discussing all of us standing at Sinai. Information, Templesinairi. org, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Saturday | September 20
Temple Sinai Morning Shabbat Service. 11 a.m.-noon. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Join us in the chapel to enjoy our monthly mindfulness service. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Monday – Wednesday | September 22-24
Please contact individual temples for Rosh Hashanah services.
Friday | September 26
Temple Sinai Shabbat Evening Service. 6-7 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Join us in the sanctuary for a soothing and healing Shabbat with Shelley Katsh and Cathy Clasper-Torch. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Saturday | September 27
Temple Sinai Morning Shabbat Service. 11 a.m.-noon. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. In the chapel. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.
Sunday | September 28
Temple Beth-El Memorial Service / Cemetery Pilgrimage. 10-11:30 a.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Service will be in the Chapel. Information, Jude Weinstein at jweinstein@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070.
Jewish Exhibit Tour at Cape Verdean Museum. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 617 Prospect St., Pawtucket. Rhode Island Coalition for Israel is partnering with the museum for an exclusive tour. Discover the history and legacy of Jews in Cape Verde
CALENDAR
through artifacts, photographs, stories and more. Limited to 25. Free; donations to the museum appreciated. RSVP and information, Maria Friedman at maria@ricoalitionforisrael.org.
Temple Sinai People of the Book. 2-3:30 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Join us in the Tree of Life room as we discuss “The Amen Effect” by Sharon Brous. Rabbi Brous stresses the importance of community throughout our lives. Information, Templesinairi.org, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350.
Wednesday – Thursday | October 1-2
Please contact individual temples for Yom Kippur services.
Friday | October 3
Temple Beth-El Shabbat Service. 5:45-6:45 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Information, Jude Weinstein at jweinstein@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070.
Sunday | October 5
The Tribe of Nova Foundation: A Special Commemoration of the events of October 7, 2023. 5 p.m. Bonnie & Donald Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Hear from one of the Nova Music Festival survivors. The speaking program will be followed by a Q&A. For those 16+. Free. Information and RSVP (by 10/3), Dori Adler at dadler@ jewishallianceri.org or 401421-4111, ext. 179.
Monday | October 6
8th Annual Golf Tournament
Benefiting the Hattie Ide Chaffee Home. 10:30 a.m. Registration. 12:30 p.m.
Shotgun Start. 5:30 p.m. Awards Ceremony. Rhode Island Country Club, 150 Nayatt Road, Barrington. Event includes a boxed lunch, 18 holes of golf, dinner, raffles and more. Information, Kim Serra at kserrapt@gmail.com.
SHANA TOVA
FOOD
These easy Israeli honey cookies are iconic
BY VERED GUTTMAN
This story originally appeared on The Nosher.
APPLES DIPPED in honey and honey cakes are popular across the Jewish world around Rosh Hashanah. But if you grew up in Israel, you most likely came across a unique variation of honey treats: duvshaniyot. These dense, dark, round honey cookies are a must in many families’ High Holy Days nosh rotation.
The modest duvshaniyot (their name derives from the Hebrew word dvash, meaning honey) seem to have been part of the Israeli repertoire forever, and you can find them on the cookie shelves in every supermarket in the country. They are cheap, pareve and last forever, so no wonder they have become a regular for Rosh Hashanah afternoon tea, for breaking the fast on Yom Kippur, and for dipping in a cold glass of milk in the sukkah. But these unassuming cookies hold a long history, as most Jewish and Israeli dishes do.
Duvshaniyot are the Israeli adaptation of a popular Russian cookie called pryaniki Dating back to medieval Russia, pryaniki were made with honey, rye flour and berry juice, and were known simply as “honey bread.” Starting around the 12th or 13th centuries, when Russia started opening up to imports from
the Middle East and India, spices and dried fruit were added to the cookie. In different regions throughout Russia, people experimented with new additions to this cookie, from jam filling to a later invention of sweetened condensed milk. Some versions were imprinted using delicate wooden forms, and some were simply rolled by hand and dipped in sugar glaze – the same version that’s still popular in Israel today.
People sometimes confuse pryaniki with German lebkuchen (aka gingerbread cookies), but it is rare to see ginger added to these classic Russian cookies, and even lebkuchen don’t always have ginger in them. Traditionally, pryaniki were spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, and even black pepper and cumin. In fact, their name, pryaniki, comes from the Russian word for spiced, pryanik
Different versions of pryaniki can be found around Eastern Europe, like piernik in Poland and lect cookies in Slovenia, which are heartshaped, painted red and artfully decorated with colorful icing. These Eastern European versions were traditionally served around Christmas, but were adapted by Jews for their own holidays, mainly Rosh Hashanah, for the use of the symbolic honey.
From Eastern Europe, the little honey cookie made its way to Israel and the United States. “The Settlement
Temple Torat Yisrael 1251 Middle Road East Greenwich, RI 02818 www.toratyisrael.org (401) 885-6600
Cook Book,” a classic 1901 American Jewish cookbook by Lizzie Black Kander, includes two versions of lebkuchen, both with citrus and almonds, but no ginger. Even more interesting, is that neither include honey, but instead call for brown sugar or molasses.
An early Israeli cookbook, “Folklore Cookbook” by Molly Bar-David, has recipes for honey cookies that are similar to pryaniki and for lebkuchen. Bar-David suggests adding ginger to the honey cookies and calls for margarine instead of butter, maybe to keep the cookies pareve.
Today, Israeli manufacturers of duvshaniyot must be doing a good job, as I notice the same Israeli brand cookies at many Russian stores in the United States. But maybe because duvshaniyot are readily available in every supermarket, most Israelis do not prepare them at home. That’s a shame, because as is the case with most baked goods, homemade is better. And when the recipe is as easy as the one below, there’s no reason not to.
You can add any of the classic gingerbread cookie spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, clove, and even black pepper and cumin) as well as cocoa powder, strong coffee or chopped chocolate. Candied citrus peel or any tart candied fruit, as well as citrus zest. You can try to replace some of the flour with rye flour to be closer to the original Russian version or replace some of the flour with almond meal and make it closer to the German lebkuchen. It’s up to you.
Israeli Honey Cookies
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Yield: 30 cookies INGREDIENTS
For the cookies:
3/4 cup honey
1/4 cup light or dark brown sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon each cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, allspice
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute half with rye flour)
For the sugar glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2–3 tablespoons water DIRECTIONS
baking soda and flour to the mixture and mix with a wooden spoon or a spatula until smooth. Cover bowl and place in the fridge for 4 hours and up to overnight. When you‘re ready to bake, turn the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Use your hands to roll 1-inch-round cookies and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Bake for 13-15 minutes, switching between baking sheets after 7 minutes, until cookies are just golden at the bottom. Do not overbake, as the cookies will become too hard. Transfer to a cooling rack until completely cold.
Programs for all ages, Pre K to 7 Sunday School. We look forward to welcoming you to our community. Prospective members can purchase High Holiday tickets. Please email us at welcome@toratyisrael.org.
Some recipes, including centuries-old recipes, suggest letting the dough rest for a few hours and up to a week before baking the cookies. This will deepen its flavors and will make rolling the dough easier. But even if you bake it right away, the cookies will improve with time, so I suggest baking them at least two days before serving. You can easily prepare them the week before Rosh Hashanah and then serve them for break the fast on Yom Kippur.
Place a saucepan with ½ inch water on a burner and turn to medium heat. Put a large metal or glass bowl over the saucepan and bring water to simmer. Once the water boils. Add honey, sugar, butter and spices to the bowl and mix until butter melts and all the ingredients incorporate. Remove bowl from the heat and let cool for about 30 minutes. Add eggs and lemon zest to the bowl and mix. Add baking powder,
To make the sugar glaze, mix powdered sugar, lemon juice and 2 tablespoons water with a spoon in a medium bowl. If the mixture seems too dry, add up to 1 tablespoon more water and keep on mixing until a smooth glaze is formed.
Dip the cookie tops in the glaze and put back on the cooling rack to set.
Notes:
The cookie dough needs to chill in the refrigerator, or up to overnight. The cookies will improve with time, so I suggest baking them at least two days before serving, though you can keep them in a sealed container at room temperature up to a month.
JTA | VERED GUTTMAN
Easy Israeli Honey Cookies are a tradition.
This Sephardi Rosh Hashanah soup is steeped in symbolism
BY SHARON GOMPERTS AND RACHEL SHEFF
This story originally appeared on The Nosher.
EVERY ROSH HASHANAH, my mother Rica made a special and delicious simanim soup, which contained all the “simanim” (signs), symbolic vegetables that are used in the Sephardic Rosh Hashanah seder. Rooted in Kabbalah and with a clever play on the Aramaic names of the vegetables, at the seder, Sephardim say blessings over these vegetables, which include butternut squash, zucchini and Swiss chard.
My mother and father were born in Larache, an ancient port city founded by the Phoenicians on the northwestern coast of Morocco. Providentially located where the Loukkos River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Larache is the most important city in the Tetouan-Tanger region of Morocco. Larache is also where my ancestors found refuge after the Expulsion from Spain in 1492.
My paternal grandfather Salomon Emquies was the proprietor of a spice shop (so appropriate that Sharon and I are the Sephardic Spice Girls). My maternal grandfather Moshe Bensabat was the chief Rabbi of Larache. He was the mohel, the shochet and conducted all the weddings.
One of the last wedding ceremonies that he performed before he made aliyah (emigrated to Israel) was that of my parents. Soon after, my parents moved to Casablanca, where my two older brothers and I were born.
When we emigrated to Los Angeles, my parents brought the jewelry that both sets of grandparents gifted my mother. They brought the menorah they had received as a wedding gift from her parents. And they brought with them the rich religious traditions of their childhood homes.
A treasured Spanish Moroccan custom, this recipe has been handed down over generations. This soup includes apples for a “sweet year,” as well as beef cheek meat or beef neck bones, which symbolize the ram’s head and the fervent wish that we should be “the head and not the tail.” In making this soup, my mother would soak the leeks and Swiss chard. She would peel the apple, carrots, sweet potatoes and turnip. She would patiently chop all the vegetables. Then everything would slowly simmer with the meat in a big pot.
After the brachot (blessings), my mother would serve this nutritious, flavorful soup as the first course of our meal, a tasty connection to the many generations that came before us, passing down the faith and the Mesorah (Oral Torah).
Over time, as more and more of my family became vegetarian, my mother started making this soup without meat. This year, I want to go back and make my mother’s original recipe.
To accommodate all my guests, I will cook the meat cheeks separately in my pressure cooker, then the meat eaters can add it to their bowl of soup.
INGREDIENTS
For the meat:
3–4 pounds beef cheek meat
1/4 cup olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Pinch of saffron (optional)
1 cup water
For the soup:
1/4 cup olive oil
4 leeks, washed thoroughly and sliced thinly
1 bunch Swiss chard, with stems removed and chopped thinly
2 cups butternut squash, cubed (or acorn or delicata squash)
1 large green apple or quince, peeled and cubed
2 large zucchini, peeled and diced
2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large turnip, peeled and cubed
4 celery stalks, diced
3 large carrots, peeled and diced
2 parsnips, peeled and diced
1/2 small cabbage, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chicken consommé powder
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt, to taste
For the meat: In a pressure cooker or large pot, add oil and warm over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes. Add meat, bay leaf and spices. Cook for 1 hour in a pressure cooker or until tender in the pot.
For the soup: In a very large pot warm oil over medium heat, then add sliced leeks. Sauté for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add all the ingredients, except Swiss chard, zucchini and butternut squash (set them aside).
Pour enough water to cover the top of the vegetables. Bring to a boil, cover the pot then lower heat to medium and simmer vegetables for 1 hour.
Add the zucchini and butternut squash. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
Add the Swiss chard, continue to cook on a simmer for an additional 30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Notes:
This recipe makes a very large pot, so you should have enough to serve this soup for two meals.
Store soup in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
COMMUNITY VOICES
The High Holy Days – A time for reflection and transformation
ROSH HASHANAH MARKS the world’s creation, while Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year, known as the Day of Atonement. These High Holy Days serve as a period of deep reflection, self-examination and seeking forgiveness for past wrongs.
H EALTHY LIVING
When I think of the High Holidays, Rosh Hashanah, I think about reflection, introspection, appreciation and course correction and new perspectives.
completely blank slate on the very first Rosh Hashanah, similarly He creates every one of us anew with a similarly blank slate at the beginning of each new year. Rosh Hashanah is our once-a-year opportunity to establish a fresh new direction and reality in our lives. Don’t get stuck in the past.
In the article “The Meaning of Rosh Hashanah: An In-Depth Analysis,” on Chabad.org, Rabbi Asher Resnick outlines the essence of Rosh Hashanah “That it is the very beginning of the new year. Just as God originally created mankind as a
Ask yourself: “If I was born this very instant, without the constraints of my various past habits and patterns, what would I do? How would I ideally want to live this brand-new year?”
My list of the top seven things in the New Year to change or do:
• Try to understand how other people are thinking before you let your
emotions take over.
Be kind and considerate to someone new.
Enjoy each day and take each day at a time.
Consider other people’s needs but take care of yourself first because you can’t be your best without selfcare (put the oxygen mask on first so you can then help others).
Own your feelings, feel them and think about how you are going to react to a situation.
• Find time every single day to be grateful for what you have and enjoy the good things in your life.
Think about the outcome of your actions before you do them and aim for the highest and best.
These are all things we know, and they seem like common sense, but they are harder to implement because we all have our own perceptions, values, judgments and histories. These are great reminders for me and for all of us in
the new year.
These are the questions, (with some examples) I ask myself as the High Holy Days approach.
What do I want to release? (anger, jealousy, worry, possessions)
What do I want to maintain? (love, family gatherings, health, financial stability)
What do I want to increase? (seeing family, travel, peace of mind, safety)
I have mentioned 10Q in previous columns, but I find it so helpful and enlightening every year at this time that I want to share this again: https://www.doyou10q. com/about
I answer the in-depth questions on 10Q. Over the past 15 years, more than 750 unique organizations and communities have used 10Q as a platform to engage in meaningful Jewish reflection. We answer one question per day in our
own secret online 10Q space. The answers get sent to the secure online 10Q vault for safekeeping.
One year later, the vault opens, and we can read our answers from the previous year for private reflection. I have found it so helpful to see my past responses and write new ones for the coming year.
Shanah Tovah U’Metukah everyone! May you have a good and sweet year!
PATRICIA RASKIN , owner of Raskin Resources Productions, is an awardwinning radio producer, business owner and leader. She has served on the board of directors of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence. Her “Positive Living with Patricia Raskin” podcast can be heard on voiceamerica.com.
PATRICIA RASKIN
COMMUNITY VOICES
Thoughts on Sargent and other portraits
AS A JUNIOR-HIGH STUDENT in Los Angeles, I had a friend, Danny Strouse. Like me, he played a woodwind instrument, and for a year or so we belonged to a small band, led by his father, which met in the Strouse family’s home. My twin brother, Theo, who played in this combo, also considered Danny a good friend.
Danny, a year younger than we Goodwins, gradually disappeared from our lives.
In 1971, while a graduate student in art history at Colum bia, I went on my spring break to Boston, primarily to visit some art museums and college friends. I also looked up Danny, who was a senior at that college in Cambridge with a yard.
Jean Strouse, might have been his relative. How many people spelled their surname that way?
As a youngster, I didn’t know if Danny had a much older sister, but I was always curious if the biographer,
I had not read Jean’s important biographies of J. P. Morgan or Alice James, but I was eager to read her newest book, “Family Romance: John Singer Sargent and the Wertheimers,” which was published a year ago. In the author’s photo on the dust jacket, I easily recognized Danny’s eyes. Since beginning my art historical studies, I’ve much enjoyed Sargent’s oil paintings, murals, watercolors, and drawings. Indeed, when taking my first art history course in college, I wrote a paper about a rather mediocre Sargent portrait that belongs to the Art Institute of Chicago. I compared it to a nearby portrait by a local
PATRON HONOR ROLL 2025
TJohn J. Barry III
Neal Bromley
Brenda A. Clayson
Ms. Patricia Del Padre-Myers
Arline Elman
Dr. & Mrs. Sco Fertik
Carl I. Freedman & Beverly Ehrich
Dr. Alan & Mrs.
Sharon Gaines
Pearl Gorden
Judith Jamieson
Evan Kaiser & Karen Tashima
Surrealist, Ivan Albright, which had startled me. Fortunately, my admiration for Sargent’s work grew steadily, and he became one of my favorite painters of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Having seen major examples in numerous American and British collections, I eventually grew tired of the debate over his citizenship. Yes, he was American-born, but like a number of other artists he spent most of his years living and traveling abroad. Truly a visionary, he found beauty nearly everywhere he sought it.
There’s abundant evidence of this at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. I believe his portrait of the four daughters of Edward Darley Boit, painted in Paris in 1882, ranks with the best pieces in this stellar collection. Alas, the handsome Sargent portraits belonging to our RISD Museum can’t measure up Jean Strouse’s new book is the first to portray him vividly within an Anglo-Jew-
he following names were omitted from the 2025 Patron Honor Roll that ran on the back page of the August 2025 issue of Jewish Rhode Island.
We apologize for the error.
– Fran Ostendorf, Editor
Lila & Kevin Kane
Russell Kushner & Isabel Kogos
Dr. David & Peggy Leibowitz
Louis & Valerie Long
Shlomo Marcovich
Marion l. Myers
Sandra L. Rubin
Joan Solomon
Cli Stern & Karen Drucker-Stern
Mel A. Topf
Henry & Arlene Winkleman
Rhoda Zaidman, in memory of Sherwin Zaidman
Anonymous (4)
ish context. Asher Wertheimer was not only one of London’s major art dealers at the turn of the centuries, but he and his wife, Flora, commissioned no fewer than 12 Sargent portraits to adorn their magnificent homes. Probably the full-length portrait of Asher is best known, but others feature his wife and their children- either alone or in various clusters.
Strouse profiles several other wealthy Jewish patrons, but none commissioned as many Sargent portraits. Eventually, the Wertheimers gave all 10 of their Sargents to London’s National Gallery, which, without the family’s permission transferred them to the Tate Gallery (the national museum of British art). Though kept in storage for decades, many of these paintings are now regarded as jewels of the collection.
Danny Strouse’s older sister also explains that, for decades, the Wertheimers and Sargent enjoyed a deep friendship. While highlighting the artist’s fascination with exotic places and subjects, she further explains that the Wertheimers were especially kind to him.
Some of the 11 Wertheimer children died quite young, and many married Gentiles. However, one child generously supported Jewish philanthropies.
Before sending an email to Jean Strouse’s professional website, I was quite saddened to discover through some online research that Danny died of cancer 20 years ago. He was a law professor at Arizona State University and left a wife (a fellow professor) and two young daughters.
Fortunately, Jean was quite pleased to hear from me. She was amazed that I recalled studying with one of her cousins while an undergraduate at Lake Forest College in Illinois. She was also amazed that I remembered that Frederick Asher’s parents and hers had shared a vacation home in Wisconsin. Professor Asher married a Gentile student from Lake Forest, and she too became a specialist in East Indian and Islamic art and taught at the University of Minnesota. I was pleased when the Ashers made a gift to the fund that I helped establish in honor of another Lake Forest art history professor.
As I write these words, per-
haps I could fashion another Anglo-Jewish portrait. This is neither a painting nor a sculpture, though a few photographs survive.
My father fell in love with a Jewish Londoner, who fled with her aunt to Bermuda during World War II. He was introduced to her by one of his law school buddies, and they met in New York City before her repatriation. Dad proposed to Cecily, but the couple quickly decided that, given the considerable distance from London, their marriage could not work.
Though not nearly as successful as Asher Wertheimer, Cecily’s husband, David, became an antiques dealer in London’s fashionable West End. Dad and Cecily remained everlasting friends because David and my mother generously held numerous family reunions in London and a few in Los Angeles. Once, when on a trip to London, Betsey and I took Cecily and her son, John, to lunch at the Tate Gallery. After Dad’s passing, I telephoned this woman, who might have been my mother.
I have so many reflections triggered by Jean Strouse’s book.
Theo and I had a childhood friend in Los Angeles, Alan Wertheimer, whom we knew from religious school. His paternal grandmother was not merely a Holocaust survivor, but she worked in Beverly Hills as a companion to our maternal great-grandmother, Belle Fruhauf Rosenthal. I wonder if she could have been a distant relative of London’s Wertheimers? And then there’s the story of how my Rosenthal grandparents, George and Marion, helped rescue an Austrian-Jewish artist, Max Pollak, during the late 1930s. Thanks to my mother’s gift, Betsey and I still enjoy several of his etchings. My younger sister, Betty, proudly displays Max’s pastel portraits of Mom and Marion in her study in the home our parents built in 1950 where she and her husband, Keith, reside today.
GEORGE M. GOODWIN , of Providence, is the editor of Rhode Island Jewish Historical Notes.
COMMUNITY VOICES Work
My elder – not eldest – brother had one grandchild who has dual nationality. She is both Israeli and American. She crafts jewelry in Tel Aviv and visited us here in Rhode Island during the summer months, to my delight and pride.
THIS BROTHER left his only child, Julia, a place in Newport where she keeps his collection of souvenirs of his local lifetime. These include paintings he collected from his colleagues during his RISD career in the architecture department. He came to RISD a year or so before I joined him there in the liberal arts department. Reminiscing with my greatniece got me thinking about a trip I made to Israel in the 1950s. I visited a kibbutz called Sasa near the Lebanon border. It had a strict code: you couldn’t own anything! not your job, not your kids, not even, if barely, your name! I wrote an account of that summer journey for the RISD alumni magazine, with the observation that students from all over the globe had worked on that kibbutz seeking the thennew international postwar spirit of values and hopes. I planted trees, at dawn, with kids from Denmark and Norway, searching for values, and probing the meaning of hope which was embodied in those young saplings. After a short stay at Sasa, I went on to Tel Aviv where I taught English to newcomers to the new nation. I wrote a travelogue and submitted it to the RISD alumni magazine, and they printed it. It was then that RISD’s President John Frazier asked to see me. Was he going to judge, or even “fire” me, I won-
dered. I dreaded his crit – but guess what? He had summoned me to tell me that he liked my account, extended my “tenure” and thus launched my lifetime career!
In those days, Israel meant hope, progress, the reversal of ancient bigotry. Every time the holy land was in deep trouble, I visited again as a symbolic gesture of good will and support. I have admired the coverage of the recent crisis reported by our admirable and witty local journalist Mark Patinkin, and I sent him a congratulatory message. Alas, I have not yet visited my late brother’s granddaughter, much to my regret. So, I am now submitting these brief words and memories as a gesture of good will toward anyone who wishes to join me in praying for the return of the hostages ASAP and a toast to the dreams and ideals of the Bible that those kibbutz workers exemplified. It is also a bid for American support in the state founded by the rebel preacher Roger Williams who supported religious freedom for Jews as well as everyone else, believing that government should not control conscience or force any form of worship.
MIKE FINK (mfink33@aol. com) is a professor emeritus at the Rhode Island School of Design.
MIKE FINK
LETTERS
Regarding the war in Israel and Gaza
I HAVE COME TO THE CONCLUSION that getting angry and digging in my heels about my opinion does no good. As much as I (mistakenly) think that I am absolutely right and everyone else is wrong, presenting things in such a manner accomplishes nothing.
Surveys tell us that a significant percentage of world Jewry (including here in the United States) stands against Israel’s continued military actions in Gaza, and are horrified by the results of famine and death. Despite Hamas having caused such trauma to Israel and the world Jewish community, the posture of the Israeli government, and its official positions, seem out of proportion, and unlikely to lead to peace.
Yet, to be upset and traumatized leads to overwhelming depression and a sense of isolation.
Something that has helped me, as of late, is reminding myself that a lot of Jews and a lot of organizations are taking stances that are, to some degree, in line with my way of thinking and make me feel as if I am not alone in my opinions.
I have been reading about the activities and positions that such organizations take, including but not limited to Friends of Roots, Combatants for Peace, Standing Together, T’ruah, J Street and the New Israel Fund. Learning about and monitoring the activities of these organizations, and many others, gives me hope and comfort of knowing that there is an active voice that could help in this dire hour. And so, I have donated to these organizations and lent them my support.
I am sure that a couple of you will agree with me, and I am also quite sure that many of you will not. I am also sure that the majority of you are troubled and confused and would just like to be able to talk about all this. Accessing these organization’s websites and looking at their statements of purpose and recent activities might bring you a sense of hope, as it did for me.
At this time, it feels difficult to find peace as a Jew. What are we to make of what is happening in Israel, or here at home? For us, as Jews, what does it all mean? It certainly never has, nor will it ever mean that we are offered an easy way to get through the moment at hand. Our faith and beliefs demand of us that we constantly question and strive for a better world.
This is how I do it, and perhaps it will be helpful to you, as well.
Louis Gitlin Providence RI
Likes what he read
OUTSTANDING ISSUE this month! Like an intellectual magazine with a variety of in-depth articles. Award winning. Thank you.
Stanley Freedman Providence, R.I.
More on Camp Yawgoog
I WOULD LIKE to update the article in the August [2025] issue about the Jewish Committee on Scouting by men-
OPINION
Timothy Snyder’s warning to America
PERHAPS THE MOST frightening aspect of Timothy Snyder’s small book, almost a handbook, is that “On Tyranny” seems to be a collection of statements of the obvious. Nevertheless, the flavors of tyranny are in all our mouths, but we do not taste them; the first whiffs of tyranny are beginning to poison our air, but we do not smell them. Nor do we hear the mounting voices of tyranny coarsening our public discourse; and we fail to feel the violent touch of tyranny when ICE agents manhandle our law-abiding immigrants and proceed to rough up our fellow citizens who might “look suspicious.”
The subtitle of “On Tyranny” is “Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century.” The majority of the book is divided into 20 brief titles with such headings as “Do not obey in advance.” and “Establish a private life.” and “Learn from peers in other countries.”
We are warned over and over again to “just open our eyes and see,” but we remain blind because we know in our guts that ICE agents will leave us “respectable” citizens alone until …until they don’t.
Timothy David Snyder (b. 1969) in recent years has become a well-known public intellectual, who speaks five European languages and has a reading knowledge of five others. He taught history at Yale University since 2001 until this summer, when he accepted a position teaching history at the University of Toronto beginning this fall. As of this writing, Snyder has published 16 books – one of them written in the Czech language and one of them written in both Russian and Ukrainian.
“On Tyranny,” first published in 2017 – now in its 46th printing!! – is by far his most popular book. Back in 2017, the book hit Number 1 on The New York Times Best Seller list for paperback non-fiction; it remained on some other bestseller lists until 2021.
tioning that Camp Yawgoog celebrated Rabbi Sol Goodman’s 25 summers at camp (along with his wife SueAnne) on Aug. 26 at the staff’s endof-summer banquet. I was amazed how he would begin
Because, as a writer, I have developed a deep and urgent interest in language, I have paid special attention to Chapter 9, “Be kind to our language,” and Chapter 17, “Listen for dangerous words.” Chapter 9 begins with Snyder’s urging us to “Make an effort to separate yourself from the internet. Read books.” Reading a book makes far more demands upon our intellectual, emotional, and even spiritual faculties than surfing the internet; the exercising of our brains that book-reading requires results in deeper, more disciplined thinking, helping us to distinguish between “fake news” and complicated, nuanced reality.
In Chapter 17 Snyder warns us that words like “emergency” and “exception” are verbal tools for autocrats around the world: “A Nazi leader outmaneuvers his opponents by manufacturing a general conviction that the current moment is exceptional and then transforming that exception into a permanent emergency. Citizens then trade real freedom for fake safety.
In his Epilogue: “History and Liberty,” Snyder summarizes his warnings to us Americans. We must refuse to accept “the politics of inevitability, the sense that history could move in only one direction: toward liberal democracy…
“The politics of inevitability
a short moral teaching, only to have the entire staff shout back at him the ending of his sentences. He had a truly receptive audience among the couple of hundred mostly college-age staff members, very
is a self-induced intellectual coma.”
Just because many of us long for, even pray for, a future that celebrates “liberal democracy” by no means guarantees that our future will avoid the curse of tyranny. We Americans need to wake up, to commit ourselves to studying our past, warts and all, to protect the future of our American dream.
Just as dangerous to our future as our politics of inevitability is our “politics of eternity, the seduction by a mythicized past, which prevents us from thinking about possible futures.”
In truth, history teaches us that our past, like the pasts of other peoples, is a mixture of virtue and vice. Our task as citizens is to celebrate our virtues and to correct our vices. Our battle between virtue and vice, good and evil, is a struggle that can never end.
On the final page of “On Tyranny,” Snyder urges young Americans to move beyond the anti-historical positions of “inevitability” and “eternity” and “instead, become a historical generation. rejecting the traps of inevitability and eternity that older generations have laid before them. One thing is certain: If young people do not begin to make history, politicians of eternity and inevitability will destroy it.”
More than one hundred years ago, the Spanish-American philosopher, George Santayana (1863-1952) wrote that “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” In other words, it CAN happen here!!
JAMES B. ROSENBERG is a rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim in Barrington. Contact him at rabbiemeritus@templehabonim. org.
few of whom are Jewish. It is worth noting that each week, Camp Yawgoog welcomes an average of 1,000 scouts and (adult) scouters, or approximately 8,000 individuals each summer (in addition to camp staff), who all interact with Rabbi Goodman, the senior chaplain at the camp.
Larry Katz Providence, R.I.
RABBI JAMES ROSENBERG
OPINION
It’s a privilege
BY MARGIE DAVIS
It’s 12:30 pm on Saturday. The morning Shabbat services are over and I’m in synagogue having lunch. The services were meaningful, the singing was joyous, and the rabbi, as always, managed to strike the right balance between gravitas and humor. The food is good and the conversation with friends at my table is engaging.
THEN MY HEAD turns ever so slightly, and my eye catches a man standing a few yards away from me. Dressed entirely in black, he is the same man I passed when I entered the building a few hours earlier. He has a gun, and I am grateful for his
presence.
Indeed, the armed security guard has become a staple in synagogues worldwide. Although protection has been required for some time now, the gun still seems jarringly out of place in a house of worship.
Later when I leave the synagogue, a police car goes by. In fact, the mayor has ordered increased patrol cars around the synagogues in our city.
In recent years there has been much talk about white privilege. The Personify Vitality app provided by my employer has a category for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). It says, “If you’re in the racial group with power, you contribute to racism. If you’re white, or in another racial group with power and privilege, you may feel guilt or shame.”
These statements about white privilege are, in my opinion, over the top. Moreover, I believe that the excessive focus on white
privilege and the binary classification of oppressor versus oppressed backfired, contributing to Trump’s win.
There are many kinds of privilege. In addition to white privilege, there is height privilege. Does anyone believe that Trump would be president if instead of standing at 6”3, he was only 5”3? In fact, to find a U.S. President who was below average height, you would have to go back to 1896 when William McKinley was elected, and he was actually about average height for that time.
But a far more serious and less acknowledged privilege is religious privilege.
If you never hesitate to reveal your religion to someone because you fear it could have negative consequences, then you have religious privilege.
A 2024 ADL study revealed that to receive the same number of positive
responses, Jewish American job applicants with Jewish-sounding names needed to submit 24% more applications. Israeli Americans needed to submit 39% more.
With a nondescript last name, I have found it telling on occasion when people find out that I am Jewish.
Many years ago, when I was a college student working at a summer job in a brokerage firm, one of the vice presidents of the company, someone who also held the leadership position in our state senate, asked me where I went to school. When I told him, he looked stunned and shrieked, “Brandeis! Why do you go there?!”. I responded, “Because it’s a good school.” He immediately caught himself, and quietly said, “I know it’s a good school. I’m proud to know you.” He then slinked away. While he was left wondering whether I was Jewish or just someone who had no problem going
to a Jewish-majority school, I had no doubt that he had a problem either way.
If you can go into your place of worship without passing an armed guard, then you have religious privilege. Synagogues around the world have become hotbeds of protest, ostensibly against Israel, but in reality, against Jews.
Professor and podcast host Scott Galloway said, “Free speech is at its freest when it’s hate speech against Jews.”
In July antisemitic protesters in Germany interrupted Friday night services by holding a rally outside a synagogue. To show their solidarity with Jews, scores of German citizens, many of them Christian leaders wearing crosses, gathered and formed a human chain around the synagogue. We need more brave and righteous people like them, people who use their religious
As the shofar sounds and the new year begins, we are reminded that we don’t journey through life alone. In a world that often feels uncertain, the strength of community grounds us, lifts us, and carries us forward. This Rosh Hashanah, may you feel the embrace of connection, the power of shared purpose, and the sweetness of belonging.
From all of us at the Jewish Alliance, we wish you a year of peace, health, and renewed hope — together.
Marisa Garber Board Chair Adam Greenman President & CEO
Israel’s war against jihad
BY MOSES MORDECAI TWERSKY
An interesting way of looking at the present grim struggle in the Middle East, is to focus on the reasons Israel is still battling the terrorist entity of Hamas, as well as facing off the hatred of Iran and Hezbollah, not to mention the terror filled Houthis.
form of Islam. Hamas are Sunni jihadis who follow the likes of al-Qaeda and ISIS but don’t export their murderous actions outside of the Middle East. In this sense, they are somewhat similar to Iranian Shi’ite jihadists, who focus their hatred in a nation-state context.
trace their Islamic history differently. But Iran’s hatred of Israel was so intense that it partnered with Hamas to destroy Israel. Of course, it also partnered with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shiite group, arming them to the teeth, again with the hope
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IN THE FALL 2009 I ssue of the journal International Security, a publication of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Professor Michael C. Horowitz makes the point that religious motivation lengthens wars considerably. The example he cites are the Crusades, which went on for several hundred years. He makes a comparison to Salafi jihadis (in 2009) who believe they are in an eternal war against infidels and non-believers. These jihadis are transnational; they don’t recognize boundaries. Salafi jihadis are Sunni who believe in a very pure
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The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, adopted in October 1979 and amended in July 1989, states that the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps “will be responsible not only for guarding and preserving the frontiers of the country, but also for fulfilling the ideological mission of jihad in God’s way; that is, extending the sovereignty of God’s law throughout the world… .” In this context, Iran established the Quds Force to operate in Syria, Lebanon (Hezbollah), Iraq (Shia militia) and the Palestinian Territories, (Hamas).
Ordinarily, Sunnis and Shia do not get along. Shia
‘Iran's hatred of Israel was so intense that it partnered with Hamas...’
that they would attack and significantly destroy Israel.
Now, Israel, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, successfully fought back against these threats. In the 12-day June War, Israel devastated Iran and, with American assistance, severely wrecked the Iranian nuclear sites of Fordow and Natanz. Isfahan was also severely damaged. But the war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip continues. Hamas has 48 hostages. It is
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estimated only 20 are alive. The IDF has thoroughly decimated Hamas. However, the Gaza Strip is not Lebanon, which is a multi-ethnic nation-state. The Gaza Strip is entirely Palestinian, woven with myriad tunnels under Palestinian schools, hospitals, mosques and residential apartments, where Hamas fights from. Hamas has purposely put up the civilian population of Gaza for sacrifice. Writing in the Atlantic magazine, Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Gazan native and Fellow at the Atlantic Council, expressly says that Hamas wants starvation in Gaza; mass death is their last play. Alkhatib is head of Realign for Palestine. However, as of Aug. 17, 2025, tons of food aid are flooding into the Gaza Strip. According to Israeli internal security, prices of essential food items have dropped by dozens of percentage points. Even earlier on July 28, the Al-Sahaba market in the Gaza
October 10, 2025 –Business & Philanthropy Deadline - September 26, 2025 Submitted - June 19, 2025
OPINION
Strip was bustling with fruits and vegetables. In less than two months, the Gaza War will have gone on for two years. Keeping in mind Professor Horowitz’s thesis that religious wars take longer to settle, the present duration of the Gaza War is normal. The allies of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah, although defeated, still threaten war. A top military adviser to Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, Yahya Rahim Safavi, stated that there is no ceasefire with Israel and Iran could attack Israel in a day. The new leader of Hezbollah, Naim Qassem, is refusing to give up arms to the Lebanese State and is threatening Israel. The Houthis are still firing missiles on Israel. All this is the Islamist ideology of jihad. Carry on religious war, even when there is no reason or basis to continue.
Hamas, though, is at its rope’s end. Hamas has just agreed to a ceasefire proposal (by the mediators Egypt and Qatar) that they had turned down a few weeks ago. However, Netanyahu announced that the IDF will take over Gaza City, an operation that has been in the planning for a few weeks. In parallel, Netanyahu stated that he will initiate negotiations with Hamas for the release of all the hostages and the disarmament and surrender of Hamas. Hopefully the jihad of this terrorist entity will be over.
MOSES MORDECAI TWERSKY,of Providence has a Master’s degree in American history from Providence College and is a self-described scion of the Chernobyl Belz Makarov Hasidic rabbinical dynasty,
privilege to support others.
When the topic of antisemitism comes up, there is often a knee-jerk reaction to include Islamophobia in the discussion, however there is little comparison in terms of the scope of the two. In 2024 Jews were about 660% more likely than Muslims to be victims of anti-religious bias offenses in the U.S.
Moreover, our challenges far exceed those of any other faith.
In 2018, while in Jerusalem, I attended a political briefing in the Knesset. Gil Hoffman, then chief political correspondent for the Jerusalem Post, described some of the challenges facing Israel and Jews worldwide. The long list included threats from Iran, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and various terrorist entities in the West Bank. He also detailed examples of the United Nations’ biased treatment towards Israel, and growing antisemitism on college campuses. It was quite discouraging and overwhelming to hear the multitude of threats from so many regions and entities.
But what took me by surprise was the remark Hoffman made immediately after he finished
the list. With an upbeat voice, he said, “The Jews have never had it so good!”, and he was quite serious when he said it. The inference was that we have a privilege today that previous generations of Jews did not have.
There is a saying that the privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.
Although this quote sounds Pollyannaish, when it comes to being Jewish, it is quite accurate. I consider being Jewish a great privilege, and my Jewish identity is a tremendous source of pride.
How privileged I am to be part of a people that is so small in numbers yet so great in its achievements and contributions to the world. In terms of
population, we represent a mere 1 in 500 people, yet we have won an astonishing 1 in 5 Nobel Prizes. Amidst police cars and armed guards now woven together into the fabric of our synagogue environment, we will continue to do what we have always done: we will pray for the privilege of peace.
MARJORIE DAVIS lives in Providence. This originally appeared on her blog, which can be found at https://blogs. timesofisrael.com/author/ marjorie-davis/
TODAH RABBAH! THANK YOU!
Many programs, events, and initiatives at the Jewish Alliance are powered by volunteers who believe in our mission. We honor your dedication, creativity, and the invaluable contributions you make to strengthen our community.
To see the list of donors who made our work possible in the 2024-2025 program year, please visit jewishallianceri.org or scan the QR code:
2024-2025 Volunteers
Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island Board of Directors
Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island Board
James Pious, Chair
Mitzi Berkelhammer
Harris Chorney, ex-officio
Susan Leach DeBlasio
Jerrold N. Dorfman
Robin Engle
Mark R. Feinstein
Harold Foster
Sharon Gaines
Marilyn Kaplan, Treasurer
Richard Licht
Michael Nulman
Ralph Posner
Jay Rosenstein
Sally Rotenberg
Robert Schloss
Robert Schloss
Women’s Alliance Committee
Women’s Alliance Committee
Priscilla & Rich Glucksman
Priscilla & Rich Glucksman
Robert Sherwin, Vice Chair
Robert Sherwin, Vice Chair
Herbert Stern
Herbert Stern
Robert Stolzman
Robert Stolzman
Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow, Secretary
Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow, Secretary
Mindy Wachtenheim
Mindy Wachtenheim
Community Campaign Solicitors
Community Campaign Solicitors
Alan Buff
Alan Buff
Reza Breakstone
Reza Breakstone
Harris Chorney
Harris Chorney
Beverly Ehrich
Beverly Ehrich
Mark R. Feinstein
Mark R. Feinstein
Edward D. Feldstein
Edward D. Feldstein
Harold Foster
Harold Foster
Susan Froehlich
Susan Froehlich
Sharon Gaines
Sharon Gaines
Marisa Garber
Marisa Garber
Richard Glucksman
Richard Glucksman
Janet Goldman
Janet Goldman
George M. Goodwin
George M. Goodwin
Edward Greene
Edward Greene
David M. Hirsch
David M. Hirsch
William Krieger
William Krieger
Robert Landau
Robert Landau
Alan Litwin
Alan Litwin
David London
David London
Sara Meirowitz
Sara Meirowitz
Sara E. Miller
Sara E. Miller
Cara Mitnick
Cara Mitnick
Mara Ostro
Mara Ostro
Jill Padwa
Jill Padwa
James Pious
James Pious
Ralph Posner
Ralph Posner
Avi Rosenstein
Avi Rosenstein
Sally Rotenberg
Sally Rotenberg
Edward Rotmer
Edward Rotmer
Steven Schechter
Steven Schechter
Eric Shorr
Eric Shorr
Richard Silverman
Richard Silverman
Herbert Stern
Herbert Stern
Joel Westerman
Joel Westerman
Katie Ziegler
Katie Ziegler
Community Microgrants Committee
Community Microgrants Committee
Ryan Forman
Ryan Forman
Rachel Furman
Rachel Furman
Brooke Odessa
Brooke Odessa
Samuel Zurier
Samuel Zurier
Janet Goldman, Chair
Janet Goldman, Chair
Amy DeBlasio
Amy DeBlasio
Sharon Gaines
Sharon Gaines
Rebecca Goldman
Rebecca Goldman
Samantha Goldman
Samantha Goldman
Jennifer Oelbaum
Jennifer Oelbaum
Katie Ziegler
Katie Ziegler
Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund
Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund
Susan Leach DeBlasio, Chair
Susan Leach DeBlasio, Chair
Membership Experience Committee
Membership Experience Committee
Reza Breakstone, Chair
Reza Breakstone, Chair
Hamed Lahijani
Hamed Lahijani
Jessica Schuster
Jessica Schuster
Early Childhood Center
Early Childhood Center
Parent Committee
Parent Committee
Amy DeBlasio, Co-chair
Amy DeBlasio, Co-chair
Ruthie Furman-Ingard, Co-chair
Ruthie Furman-Ingard, Co-chair
Strategic Plan Working Group
Strategic Plan Working Group
Hadley Bazarsky
Hadley Bazarsky
Reza Breakstone
Reza Breakstone
Jeff Buckler
Jeff Buckler
Natasha Buckler
Natasha Buckler
Harris Chorney
Harris Chorney
Rabbi Barry Dolinger
Rabbi Barry Dolinger
Susan Froehlich
Susan Froehlich
B’nai Mitzvah Gala
B’nai Mitzvah Gala
Stacy & Doug Emanuel, Co-chairs
Stacy & Doug Emanuel, Co-chairs
Lesley & Robert Landau, Co-chairs
Lesley & Robert Landau, Co-chairs
Roanne & Richard Licht, Co-chairs
Roanne & Richard Licht, Co-chairs
Honorary Host Committee
Honorary Host Committee
Congressman Gabe Amo
Congressman Gabe Amo
Mitzi Berklehammer
Mitzi Berklehammer
Dr. Rimini & Reza Breakstone
Dr. Rimini & Reza Breakstone
Sally & Harris Chorney
Sally & Harris Chorney
David N. Cicilline
David N. Cicilline
Robin & Jim Engle
Robin & Jim Engle
Barbara & Edward Feldstein
Barbara & Edward Feldstein
Doris & Alan Feinberg
Doris & Alan Feinberg
Cindy & Mark Feinstein
Cindy & Mark Feinstein
Susan & John Froelich
Susan & John Froelich
Sharon & Alan Gaines
Sharon & Alan Gaines
Marisa Garber & Dan Gamm
Marisa Garber & Dan Gamm
Hope & David Hirsch
Hope & David Hirsch
Ruthie Furman-Ingard & Ben Ingard
Ruthie Furman-Ingard & Ben Ingard
Congressman Seth Magaziner
Congressman Seth Magaziner
Jill & Jeffrey Padwa
Jill & Jeffrey Padwa
Lezli & James Pious
Lezli & James Pious
Senator Jack Reed
Senator Jack Reed
Hanina & Avi Rosenstein
Hanina & Avi Rosenstein
Lisa & Eric Shorr
Lisa & Eric Shorr
Mara Ostro & Adam Sinel
Mara Ostro & Adam Sinel
Mayor Brett Smiley & Jim DeRentis
Mayor Brett Smiley & Jim DeRentis
Bethany & Richard Sutton
Bethany & Richard Sutton
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse
Katie & Pete Ziegler
Katie & Pete Ziegler
39th Annual Richard Bornstein
39th Annual Richard Bornstein
Memorial Dwares JCC Golf Classic Committee
Memorial Dwares JCC Golf Classic Committee
Ruthie Furman-Ingard & Ben Ingard, Co-chairs
Ruthie Furman-Ingard & Ben Ingard, Co-chairs
Lauren & Max Charness
Lauren & Max Charness
May-Tal Sauerbrun-Cutler & Alex Cutler
May-Tal Sauerbrun-Cutler & Alex Cutler
Shelley & Andrew Sigal
Shelley & Andrew Sigal
Heather & Dan Waters
Heather & Dan Waters
The Velvet Hour Committee
The Velvet Hour Committee
Amy DeBlasio & Brandon Grandmaison, Co-chairs
Amy DeBlasio & Brandon Grandmaison, Co-chairs
Susan Leach DeBlasio
Susan Leach DeBlasio
Lynne Klasko Foster
Lynne Klasko Foster
Joelle & Andrew Kanter
Joelle & Andrew Kanter
Bethany & Rich Sutton
Bethany & Rich Sutton
Heather & Dan Waters
Heather & Dan Waters
Shannon & Brian Weinstein
Shannon & Brian Weinstein
Katie & Pete Ziegler
Katie & Pete Ziegler
COMMUNITY
Book lovers gather for Hadassah at annual Books on the Beach
BY SARAH GREENLEAF
MIDDLETOWN, R.I. – On Aug. 6, 179 women from across New England filled the room with floral dresses and the laughter of old friends greeting one another with enthusiasm. Now in its 10th year, Books on the Beach by Hadassah Southern New England took place at the Wyndham Newport Hotel.
THIS FUNDRAISING event supports the work of Hadassah, the women’s Zionist organization that began in 1912 as a book club. Not satisfied to simply sit around and read, the women decided to focus on raising money to build a hospital in Jerusalem. Or as one woman recounted the decision, “Why are we sitting around when we could be saving the world?”
According to opening remarks from Roberta Schneider, the new Hadassah Rhode Island Chapter president, the pillars of Hadassah are healthcare, Zionism and women’s leadership.
Before the program began, women chatted with one another about children and grandchildren, volunteer projects, trips, education and gardening. The room was decorated in gold and cream, and silver stars hung from the ceiling. The members are passionate about the work they do and the organization. Many women got involved through their own mother’s involvement. “My mother was a lifelong member, and when I finished college, she told me to join, so I did!” said member Susan Couture, whose sister is also involved. Her mother was a big supporter of girls’ and women’s leadership and development, was involved in Girl Scouts and was also active at Brandeis.
Hadassah Rhode Island Chapter Past President Sue Mayes got involved when “I moved to town and needed to be with other Jewish women. I’ve learned about my own Judaism and my own education as part of the Jewish world.”
In addition to large events like this one, Hadassah chapters organize monthly events and book clubs. They advocate for women through events
like Walk for Women’s Health and retreats and advocate on Capitol Hill.
“My passion is advocacy,” said Gayle Seletz, the Hadassah Northeast managing director. “We have a day on the Hill in March.” She also mentioned that the chapters all got together to have an end-of-the-year book swap, something many look forward to.
As the program began, the women all stood to sing the national anthem and Hatikvah. Through many rounds of introductions, we learned that money was being raised to fund various Hadassah programs and to wrap the two Hadassah hospitals in steel plates. The first speaker of the afternoon, author Marilyn Simon Rothstein, 73, had the crowd in hysterics with multiple women at my table commenting that she should be a standup comedian in addition to a writer.
“It was a real sacrifice having to spend time in Newport. In August,”
she deadpanned. “The life of an author is just awful.” Rothstein published her first book at age 63. “If my life story was the title of a book, it would be ‘I Can’t Wait to Take my Bra off!’” She talked about her husband, her upbringing, being a grandmother today and her daughters. As far as her writing process goes, “I write the most at my kitchen table because I like to be near the snacks.”
On a more serious note, Rothstein told the crowd, “I enjoy writing about women’s friendships, which is what my next book is about.” Rothstein’s latest book is “Who Loves You Best.”
Next up was author Tova Mirvis, who lives in Newton with her husband and three children.
Tova was a poised and eloquent speaker who talked about writing her newest book “We Would Never,” which is inspired by a true story. She had originally been working on a different book about Timothy Leary, who had once lived in the home she and her family purchased. But she kept coming back to the story of a Florida State law professor who had
been murdered while embroiled in a very contentious divorce. She followed that story for years and asked herself, “How do you go from being a nice Jewish family of dentists to allegedly hiring a hitman to kill your ex-son-in-law during a divorce? It seemed a long way to go.”
To work on a book for years, Mirvis said she believes, “I think every book has to have that match strike against your own bumpy self.”
After abandoning the Timothy Leary book, she focused on the law professor story and making it her own, admitting that such a plotdriven book was a bit of a departure from her previous work. Still, it had the character complexity she was looking for. “I needed you to be able to relate to someone who really might hire a hitman.”
As she finished her talk, Mirvis took a moment to thank the women in the room for being readers of Jewish books and stressed the importance of their support.
The afternoon finished with more raffle drawings and an announcement that the group had already raised over $20,000 from the event. Women hugged and said goodbye and walked one another to their cars under the blue Newport sky.
SARAH GREENLEAF (sgreenleaf@ jewishallianceri.org) is the digital marketing manager for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and writes for Jewish Rhode Island.
Books on the Beach 2025 attracted 179 people to the Wyndham Newport Hotel on Aug. 6.
Tova Mirvas and Marilyn Rothstein and Books on the Beach 2025.
PH OTOS | ELLEN FINGERET
Washington’s 1790 letter meets RISD President’s poem
SAM SHAMOON
A HISTORIC and deeply meaningful tradition lives on in a new location. For the past 78 years, the Touro Synagogue Foundation has held a ceremonial public gathering to hear the reading of the 1790 exchange of letters between the Hebrew Congregation of Newport and newly elected President George Washington. This year for the first time, it was not held in the Touro Synagogue but in the Old Colony House, Newport, a magnificent edifice that once served as the Rhode Island State House and is the fourth oldest state house in America. This beautiful setting deepened the sense of pride and history that imbues this annual event.
It was in the Old Colony House that George Washington stopped upon his arrival in Newport, and it was here that Moses Seixas, the Warden of the Touro Synagogue of Newport, handed his now-famous letter to the new president. Seixas’ words made such an impression on the president that he saw fit to use the same words in his reply to the Hebrew Congregation.
“For happily the Government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens, in giving it on all occasions their effective support.”
These words of reassurance enabled the Jews of Newport to continue to thrive and live safely in an openly Jewish manner in the newly unified United States of America.
The reading aloud of Seixas’ and Washington’s letters is but one feature of this annual event. Each year, representatives of the Artillery Company of Newport, clad in colonial garb, present the colors, and speeches from prominent politicians follow; this year they included RI’s Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and RI Secretary of State Gregg Amore. Amore pointed out that Washington came to Rhode Island because it was the last state of the original 13 colonies to ratify the Constitution. He explained
that Rhode islanders had “legitimate concerns about the separation of powers, and that states retained powers in the new federal system.”
After these speeches, the Moses Seixas letter was ably read by Touro Synagogue Foundation Executive Director Meryle Cauley, and the George Washington Letter by Rebecca Bertrand, executive director of the Newport Historical Society. Both readings brought the words to life. Musical selections and a keynote speech always round out this occasion.
This year’s keynote speaker was Rhode Island School of Design President Dr. Crystal Williams. Williams was invited speak because of her life’s work of creating programs and strategies in support of diversity and inclusivity, especially those efforts that relate to art and higher education. Williams has a distinguished career as a professor of English and as a poet. She has won numerous prestigious awards from boards and granting agencies from Maine to Oregon.
Early on in her keynote speech, Williams reminded those present that she is a poet. She declared that the poet’s job is to speak the unspeakable and unspoken, and in so doing, to suggest a new way forward. In this spirit, Williams read her poem titled “Double Helix.” (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NHSkVsaEtb0)
To set the many contexts for the poem, Williams first explained that a double helix is the twisted, ladder-like structure of DNA, resembling a spiral staircase and that the two strands of biochemicals coil around each other, exchanging crucial genetic information. She then explained that her poem has two strands that coil around each other. One strand is about an African American family’s experience in America. The other strand is made up of thoughts and words from Williams’ friend, Avi Freeman, child of a Holocaust survivor. In fact, Williams dedicated the poem to Avi and to her father, who descended from enslaved Americans.
A major theme of the poem and of Williams’ keynote address is the intertwining of the Jewish and African American experiences. As Williams states in the poem, “. . . a millennium of history enters us & we cannot/ control, can only harness whom or what we host. Our traumas, the bright blue mysticisms & burnt orange murmurs, our joys &/ muddled currencies are archived in genetic code.” Also, as Williams read the poem aloud, the audience heard in its many stories and memories, about the trauma of Black life in the US South but also in the North. Then from the poem’s other coil, they heard that Avi read passages of the poem to his father, who responds, “Son, why read me my story?”
Then, as Williams drew her speech and her poem to
a close, she sounded a more hopeful note. In the poem, she states, “I know no better way to explain the/ history of humans than to tell you at night, my father played piano & sang, his voice our raft on a/ quiet lake, an island of gentleness & gentleness is a choice, is a miracle in America.” In addition, Williams challenged the audience of about 135 people to get involved in an active community with art and artists, enter as many gateways as we can and fill what lies beyond them with overflowing joy.
SAM SHAMOON , of Providence, is a member of the Touro Synagogue Foundation Board of Directors. If you want to read Crystal Williams’ poem “Double Helix,” go to https://www.moma.org/ interactives/exhibitions/2015/ onewayticket/perspectives/ poetry/double-helix/
NO ONE SAVES MORE LIVES IN ISRAEL IN TIMES OF CRISIS.
We can’t ensure this Rosh HaShanah will usher in a peaceful year. But with your support, Magen David Adom can continue to be a source of light, hope, and lifesaving care to all Israelis — no matter what 5786 brings.
Support Israel’s lifesavers at afmda.org/give or 866.632.2763.
PHOTO | RISD
President Dr. Crystal Williams gives the keynote address at the annual George Washington letter reading in Newport on Aug. 17, 2025
COMMUNITY
New officers for Chased Shel Amess
THE ANNUAL MEETING of the Chased Schel Amess Association (Lincoln Park Cemetery) was held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Tamarisk Senior Living in Warwick.
The new officers for 2025-2026 were installed by Murray Gereboff.
They are David Mossberg – President, Joel Gerstenblatt - 1st Vice President, Michael Penn - 2nd Vice President, Steven Sholes - Treasurer, Arline Elman - Recording Secretary. Board Members at Large to serve a term of three years: Cheryl Adessi, Marc Gertsacov, Lynda Golditch, Sam Mendelowitz, Bruce Wasser. Board
August at Camp Gan Israel
member to serve a term of two years: Michael Weiner. Board members to serve a term of one year: Michael Robinson, Susan Vederman.
ROW 1: Aaron Weintraub, Steven Sholes, Michael Penn, David Mossberg, Joel Gerstenblatt, Arlene Elman, David Weiss, Susan Vederman.
ROW 2: Bruce Wasser, Reid Redlich, Stephen Hershey, David Altman, Garrett Sock, Susan Feldman, Sam Mendelowitz, Lynda Golditch, Cheryl Adessi, Michael Robinson, Murray Gereboff, Lowell Lisker, Edward Fink.
CAMPERS HAD A BLAST at Camp Gan Israel, a camp of Chabad of West Bay that meets at Congregation Torat Yisrael in East Greenwich. Indoor and outdoor activities as well as field trips kept the boys and girls on their toes in August.
What’s different about the 2026 Community Campaign?
BY JENNIFER ZWIRN
JEWISH PHILANTHROPY has long been guided by the value of “tzedakah” –the moral responsibility to care for both local and global communities. Traditionally, through the Community Campaign, donors have supported causes like Jewish education, social services, and community-building programs. But this year, something feels profoundly different – for both donors and the Jewish Alliance.
Alliance board members and co-chairs to this year’s Community Campaign, Katie Ziegler and Reza Breakstone, are committed to ensuring direct impact for donors to these and other programs communitywide. Breakstone said, “Our Community Development Committee does an outstanding job ensuring that the Alliance supports Rhode Island-based programs. This past year, our donors’ dollars directly supported more than a dozen in-state partner organizations, over three areas: social needs, education, and engagement. From Hillels on campus and summer camps to Chabads, day schools, and our sole
human services provider, the Alliance is in every corner of our beloved state, bringing dollars to partners supporting the community, supporting each of us.”
The events of recent years – most notably the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, the ongoing conflict, and rising social tensions nationwide – have reshaped priorities and heightened the urgency to act. In response, donors have stepped up to support emergency relief in Israel, providing trauma counseling, housing and medical aid – just as they have for Ukrainian Jews and other communities across Eastern Europe grappling with war, displacement and poverty. These overlapping crises have made continued support more essential than ever. At the same time, needs closer to home have deepened. Antisemitism is on the rise, economic instability persists, and the lasting effects of the pandemic continue to strain families and individuals. Local services – such as food assistance, mental health resources and care for our most vulnerable populations – are vital. Increasingly, donors recognize that
strengthening our local Jewish community is key to building a vibrant future.
For these reasons alone, supporting this year’s Community Campaign is essential. “Giving to this campaign doesn’t just feel good. It is critical that we support our neighbors and one another. We proudly come together in times of celebration, and it is time to now join in a time of crisis. Our community needs us, it’s that simple,” said Ziegler.
Today, giving to the Jewish community is more than a charitable act— it’s a statement of courage, identity and solidarity. It says: You are not alone. We are stronger together. Philanthropy fosters not only critical support, but also a deep and enduring sense of belonging.
The challenges we face – both at home and abroad – remind us that Jewish continuity cannot be taken for granted. Supporting our community means protecting its values, culture and dignity for future generations. Giving today declares that Jewish life will not only survive—it will thrive - in Israel, in Eastern Europe and in
our own neighborhoods.
This year, philanthropy must go beyond tradition. It must meet the moment – as a response to crisis, and as a source of connection, purpose and hope. Donors are giving with greater intention, addressing both urgent needs and long-term recovery. They are helping lift lives – around the world and around the corner.
At the Jewish Alliance, this year’s philanthropic landscape tells a story of belonging and action. The lines between local and global, emergency and sustained support, are increasingly blurred. In this moment, Jewish giving is more than charity – it is the shared responsibility and strength of a community determined to move forward, together.
To support these pressing needs, visit jewishallianceri.org/support-us/ featured/donate-now. Every gift makes a direct and lasting impact.
JENNIFER ZWIRN is chief development officer at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.
2025 officers and board members of the Chased Shel Amass Association (Lincoln Park Cemetery).
COMMUNITY
Hevra Kadisha of Rhode Island offers rituals and care for the dead
BY MARSHA MILLER
IT HAS BEEN A YEAR since we met to create the Community Hevra Kadisha of Rhode Island, and we have much to report. The most important news is that we will begin to offer our services to the community this fall after the High Holy Days. What do we offer you may ask? We offer tahara – the ritual of washing the body of our dead, dressing in simple shrouds called tachrichim and placing the meit/meitah (the body of our dead) carefully into the aron – the casket. This is done with the utmost respect, compassion and humility; the ritual is infused with ancient prayers extolling our inherent beauty and value. We have had two teams of volunteers training this past year, working diligently to learn the rituals and to work together. In general men prepare men’s bodies, women prepare women’s bodies. We also have liturgy for non-binary Jews; everyone should feel comfortable with our services. You may wonder why we have
Hevra Kadisha of Rhode Island. While the Orthodox community has generously offered this beautiful ritual to the entire state for decades, they have invited Jews only with the same observance levels and belief sets to participate as volunteers in the Chevra Kadisha itself. The Community Hevra Kadisha of Rhode Island is pluralistic, embracing and uniting Jews across the spectrum of Jewish practice to join in this sacred ritual. In all that we do, we seek to embody the Jewish principle of cheset shel emet, true kindness, a profound way to see and affirm the inherent dignity of every human being. The Community Hevra Kadisha of Rhode Island has been created with the support and guidance of The Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island.
It has been a wonderful process creating our Hevra Kadisha. Many, many people joined in our initial discussion groups about death, sharing experiences of their losses and their encounters with Jewish death rituals
remembering a profound shmirah experience (sitting with the loved one’s body before burial) or a specific shiva for a grandparent, reciting kaddish in their living room with a minyan, or recalling how the community reached out or didn’t, we came to know more about how these traditions are transmitted. The stories we heard were moving and incredibly helpful in understanding how deeply these experiences extend into our lives.
How do you access a tahara? The tahara is performed at either of the Jewish funeral homes in Rhode Island. Simply contact the funeral director or rabbi when making funeral arrangements. Our website will be up soon. There will be no charge for our services. The tahara takes between 1-2 hours. The work of the Hevra Kadisha is confidential – that is one of the ways respect and honor are offered to the deceased and their loved ones. While this ritual is private, we hope that the work of the Hevra Kadisha becomes better
rituals and practices to be better understood and cherished by the entire Jewish community.
If you are interested in making a donation, or simply learning more about our services, or curious about becoming a member of the Hevra Kadisha, please don’t hesitate to be in touch at Communityhevrari@gmail. com. Besides performing tahara, our Hevra Kadisha is committed to end-of-life education with the intention of fostering greater fluency in the cultural, ethical and spiritual aspects of this part of life. We hope to invite more openness into discussions about death, so that we meet this part of our lives with knowledge and more ease. We hope to visit your communities to introduce ourselves over the coming months. Please ask your clergy to invite us to visit. We look forward to meeting you and learning more about your questions and concerns.
MARSHA MILLER
Hevra Kadisha of Rhode Island.
It’s a carnival at J-Camp
J-CAMP ENDED WITH a carnival filled with fun on Aug. 22. Campers made their own carnival games and , of course there was face painting and other games. The camp took place at the Dwares Jewish Community Center in Providence.
Jewish Alliance crowd brings community spirit to RIFC victory COMMUNITY
BY BRAD SWARTZ
ON AUG. 6, the Jewish Alliance brought energy and enthusiasm to Rhode Island FC’s home match, where fans were treated to a thrilling 1–0 victory. Midfielder Maxi Rodriguez secured the win with a penalty kick at the 60-minute mark, sparking cheers across the stadium and sending fans home with smiles.
Over 100 community members and fellow soccer fans filled Section 210, with others
enjoying the game from their season-ticket-holder seats stadium-wide. Everyone who purchased tickets through the Jewish Alliance received an exclusive rally towel – a spirited touch that proved especially useful during goal celebrations and the final whistle.
This event followed a successful outing in May to Fenway Park for the Red Sox’s Jewish Heritage Night. After witnessing two straight wins at both events, it’s safe to say the Jewish Alliance may just
be a good luck charm for local teams – regardless of personal allegiances.
Beyond the excitement of game day, these events serve a deeper purpose. They showcase our pride in Jewish culture and reinforce community bonds. In recent years, showing up together – publicly and proudly – has taken on renewed importance. These outings highlight our unity and visibility in broader community spaces.
While no additional sporting events are scheduled
yet, exciting events are on the horizon. On Sept. 14, the second Jewish Culture Festival returns to the Bonnie and Donald Dwares JCC in Providence, and on Sunday, Oct. 19, the Dwares JCC will field a team in the Citizens Pell Bridge Run in Newport in partnership with Temple Beth Sholom. Visit our website for more information on both events.
These programs, and many others throughout the year, are made possible by generous contributions to the
Jewish Alliance Community Campaign. Together, we make a difference.
BRAD SWARTZ , (bswartz@ jewishallianceri.org) is the Fundraising and Partnership Manager, at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.
An exciting ending to a gap year in Israel
BY ATARA BIELORY
FRIDAY MORNING, June 13, 3 a.m. I awoke abruptly to the wail of an Israeli azaka, what we call a siren. At this point in the year, we had become accustomed to sirens, especially on Sundays and Thursdays. Missiles from the Houthis were common, and thanks to the incredible country of Israel, which takes the safety of its citizens very seriously, along with a dose of help from Above, at this point those sirens were nothing to be afraid of. So, I rolled over and went back to sleep. Until I was awoken again, this time by a friend. “The Madrichot (dorm counselors) warned us that this time the siren is serious, and we all must quickly head to the shelter with what we might need for the rest of the night!!!” And that was the start of my war-time experience.
We were supposed to leave for
America the following Tuesday, following an amazing gap year program. Many had begun packing. Some had taken pictures and letters off the walls by the beds, started goodbye letters and prepared, mentally and emotionally, for leaving the place we called home for the past 9 months. It was an incredible year of growth, learning and living my Jewish heritage in our nation’s land, but we were ready to go back to our families in America. And now we were miles away from our loved ones, in a war zone, with no flights for the foreseeable future.
The first few days were extremely difficult. We were not sleeping enough, spending a good amount of our nighttime hours running to the shelter. We were scared, uncertain and unsettled. Our emotions were in utter turmoil, and girls who one would never expect to cry were cry-
ing right, left and center. The school wasn’t expecting,hundreds of extra students for an unknown amount of time and in a war zone nonetheless! But they did an amazing job rising to the challenge. They organized optional classes and night activities for us, and they were present to hear us out, comfort us and help us in every possible way, above and beyond the call of duty. They even held a makeshift graduation for us “between the sirens.”
This was my second strange graduation, as my eighth-grade graduation took place in June of 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was during this time when I needed to fortify myself with the many skills I had gained over the year.
My newly deepened love of Israel kept my homesickness in check. Honestly, after the first few days I was happy to be with my people in my
country during her time of distress. My Jewish pride and my trust in G-d, both of which were greatly strengthened over the year, enabled me to remain calm and enjoy the bonus time in my homeland. The friendships I formed over the months kept me going. The girls in my dorm spent the time supporting each other and creating even tighter bonds.
I thank the Jewish Alliance for enabling me to attend this amazing program in Israel. The entire year was one long stream of life-changing experiences and ended literally with a real bang. Thank you for helping me attain my dream.
ATARA BIELORY was in Israel from September 2024 to June 2025 and attended the Bnos Sarah Teachers’ Seminary.
Scenes from J-Camp carnival.
From your friends at
Jewish Culture Fest returns on Sept. 14
Book Review:
JEWISH RHODE ISLAND STAFF
JEWISH CULTURE and tradition will be on display Sept. 14 at the 2nd annual Jewish Culture Fest. Scheduled for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Elmgrove Avenue from Sessions Street to Savoy Street, the event will offer music, food, arts and crafts vendors, experiences and a kids zone.
Last year’s fest was a resounding success, attracting approximately 1,000 people. This year, organizers are hoping to attract even more. The festival is aimed at Jews and non-Jews alike. It’s a way for the community to learn about and
engage with the Jewish community while experiencing the joy and pride that our community feels.
Performers on the main stage this year will include Ezekiel’s Wheels, Rachel Linsky & Dancers, and Nefesh Mountain with Rock-aBaby on the kids’ stage.
There will be arts and crafts vendors and food including Kosher offerings from Zayde’s Market in Canton, Massachusetts and kosher-style food from Maven’s Delicatessen. Navad Bakers will also be there.
Jews and Booze will offer a whiskey tasting outside from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The popular kids’ area returns with face painting, balloon twisting, a bouncy house and an obstacle course. There will be a PJ Storytime at 2 p.m.
Inside the Bonnie & Donald Dwares Jewish Community Center, the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Chabad will have a Shofar Factory going in the lobby from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can tour the JCC Fitness Center (sign up required).
For more information and more offerings, check out JewishAllianceRI.org/CultureFest.
Shaping experience with art: Henry J. Spencer’s new book is a spiritual adventure
DR. HENRY J. SPENCER is a Touro Synagogue institution. With his dashing tweed and seersucker suits, his permanent good cheer, and, especially, his angelic turns leading the Sabbath prayers, he embodies the spirit of the Newport “kehillah.” Which is to say –we’re very proud of him. But although it seems that most every Jew in Rhode Island has enjoyed a cozy meal with Henry and his wife Felicia in their Newport home, sung along to his melodies at the synagogue, or both, his life as an artist and curator is too often overlooked.
“Illuminating Nature” is the author’s third book. In “The Art and Design of Ruth Abraams Spencer” (2009), Henry compiled the work of his late mother (1910-1980), an accomplished artist, interior designer and Jewish community leader. “Capturing Bialik’s Butterflies: Poet’s Voice Meets Camera’s Eye” (2017), which also toured as a museum exhibit, combines the truest appreciation for
Bialik’s poetry (a Spencer family tradition) with photographs of monarch butterflies, all taken by Henry at the Butterfly Garden at Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven, Connecticut. The effect is magical, and the book is a must-read for Bialik fans everywhere.
But “Illuminating Nature” represents a further leap in Henry’s artistic development. This newest volume, rather than reframing the work of another artist, is nothing but free expression. The monarchs in “Capturing Bialik’s Butterflies” served to illustrate and uplift the great Hebrew poet; the photographs in “Illuminating Nature” are the stars of their own show. Henry now entrusts the reader to his own talent for a “photographer’s spiritual quest”, and thankfully he has a camel-load.
Each folio of the book includes one of Henry’s photographs faced with an appropriate quotation from Jewish tradition on the opposite page. The images are remarkable, but the true
value of the work is in its arrangement, on which Henry collaborated with a fellow artist, his daughter Shoshana. To quote Ruth Abraams Spencer regarding Oriental rugs (“Art and Design” p. 131): the self-expression “lies in its pattern”.
The book’s three parts (“Trees”, “Mushrooms” and “Flowers”) are, like movements in a symphony, intentionally constructed to provide the reader with a particular experience. Gnarly macro images of knots and stumps give some pages a Gothic mood (from these alone you can guess that he’s a dermatologist), which breaks with relief into pink cherries and sunshine and a quotation from the “Sefer Hayashar,” “thus it is with the soul . . .” In the next section, the lens tilts up until mushrooms form stems: turn the page to see them bloom into flowers and become “As a rose among the thorns” (Song of Songs 2:2).
Henry’s expert camera captures
what is always before us, yet rarely seen. Each image is a surprise, and every quotation transforms that reaction into the next stop on a spiritual adventure. It’s the mark of a mature artist: not merely to create, but to shape experience with art. For those who know Henry as a neighbor, friend or fellow congregant, this book will feel like an extension of his warm and elegant presence. If you haven’t met him, “Illuminating Nature” will make sure you want to. Either way, it’s not to be missed.
For further details or to purchase a copy of “Illuminating Nature”, apply to the author at hjspencer180@gmail. com Spencer will also be available in person on Sept. 14 at the Jewish Culture Fest where he will be selling his books.
GERSHON KLAPPER serves as the rabbi of Congregation Ahavath Israel at the Touro Synagogue of Newport, RI.
COMUNITY A rockin’ good time at the Prom
GUESTS AND VOLUNTEERS at the Kosher Senior Cafe at the Dwares Jewish Community Center in Providence enjoyed dancing and dining Aug. 29 at the Senior Prom. A photo booth and a DJ helped keep everyone smiling at the 60s-themed event.
RHODE ISLAND's
This Month in History
Sounding the shofar after 9/11
AT FIRST GLANCE, this article is a feel-good feature about kids making their own shofars out of 300 kosher animal horns. Led by Rabbi Yossi Laufer of the Chabad of West Bay Chai Center, the horn-making workshop was an annual favorite around the month of Elul. What’s notable is the timing: This article ran on Sept. 20, 2001, only nine days after the September 11th attacks. As the country continued to reel from the shock and violence of that morning, many local leaders fostered normalcy and community-building, especially among children.
Pray for Peace
May it be Your will, G-d of our ancestors, that You grant my family and all Israel a good and long life. Remember us with blessings and kindness. Fill our homes with your Divine Presence. Give me the opportunity to raise my children and grandchildren to be truly wise, lovers of G-d, people of truth, who illuminate the world with Torah, good deeds and the work of the Creator. Please hear my prayer at this time. Regard me as a worthy descendent of Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah, our mothers, and let my candles burn and never be extinguished. Let the light of your face shine upon us, and bring true peace to Israel and the world.
Blessed are You, G-d our Lord, King of the universe, who has hallowed us through His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the lights of the holy Shabbos
CAUTION FOR FRIDAYS:
DO NOT light candles after sunset so as not to desecrate the Shabbos. It is forbidden to light candles after sunset.
Come to a “FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE”
Shabbat Dinner at the Chabad House
Jewish Hospitality Center
360-362 Hope St. Providence, RI 02906
Call: 273-7238
BLESSINGS FOR HOLIDAYS
Select the proper ending for the appropriate Yom Tov:
BORUCH ATO ADO-NOY ELO-HAY-NU MELECH
HO-OLOM A-SHER KID-SHONU B’MITZ-VO-SOV V-TZI-VONU L’HAD-LIK NER SHEL
Special instructions for holidays (but not on Shabbat) It is forbidden to create a new fire by striking a match, lighter, etc., However, it is permissable to use a flame already burning since before the inception of the holiday, such as a pilot light, gas or candle flame. Candle lighting time for the second night of the Holiday is usually about one hour after the candle lighting time of the previous night.
5780–5781 (2020–2021) CANDLE LIGHTING SCHEDULE
Newspaper courtesy Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association
HIGH HOLY DAYS
Synagogues gear up for High Holy Days
BY JEWISH RHODE ISLAND STAFF
Summer is winding down, and we are gearing up for the High Holy Days.
Jewish Rhode Island does not list information regarding specific services and schedules. This year, we contacted all the synagogues, temples and congregational groups and asked about in-person and virtual services as well as if tickets will be required. What follows is the current information from those who responded along with contact information from our files from all known synagogues, temples and groups in our coverage area.
For the most up-to-date information on service schedules, please contact the synagogues directly or visit their websites.
ORTHODOX
Congregation Ahavat Israel https://www.thetourosynagogue.org/ 75 Touro St., Newport, RI info@ahavathisraelnewport-ri.org
In-person services that will be simultaneously livestreamed. Tickets are necessary. Please contact the main office for more information. Non-members.should contact the main office for more information on tickets.
templehabonim.org 165 New Meadow Road Barrington, RI 02806
Everyone is welcome for the High Holy Days! Services are in person and streaming.
Pre-registration required for non-members: www. templehabonim.org/hhd
Non-Member admission is $180 for individuals (all services), $360 for family (all services). There is no charge for young adults (under 30), students, or tot service. Financial assistance is available.
Tickets are required for 10 a.m. services for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and the evening of Kol Nidre. Family service for children grades 5 and under and their families, is open to all at 10:00 am on both Rosh Hashana & Yom Kippur.
If you wish to attend services and are interested in joining Temple Sinai, we will provide you with a membership application, High Holy Day tickets at no charge, and would like the
opportunity to meet with you. Also, we do not charge dues for the remainder of 2025. This is only permitted once. Also, as a one-time only opportunity, you may purchase tickets for $100 each which covers both holidays.
RECONSTRUCTIONIST
Congregation Agudas Achim office@agudasma.org 508-222-2243 agudasma.org 901 North Main St. Attleboro, MA 02703
In-person and on zoom. Guests must register on the website: https://www.agudasma.org/ observance/high-holidays/ hh-tickets/ Free tickets, with voluntary donations.
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Brown RISD Hillel info@brownrisdhillel.org 401-863-2805 brownrisdhillel.org
80 Brown St., Providence, RI
Chabad CHAI Center of West Bay rabbi@RabbiWarwick.com RabbiWarwick@gmail.com 401-884-7888 RabbiWarwick.com
3871 Post Road, Warwick, RI
Chabad of Northern RI islandrabbi@gmail.com 401-499-2574
I1767 Old Louisquisset Pike, Lincoln
Chabad of Rhode Island Jewish Hospitality Center believeinprovidence@gmail. com401-273-7238 chabadriprovidence.com 360 Hope St., Providence Call 401-273-7238 and leave a message with any questions.
Congregation Sons & Daughters of Ruth 401-466-2861
Block Island
Hillel Foundation at the University of Rhode Island amyolson@uri.edu401-874-2740 urihillel.org
6 Fraternity Circle, Kingston, RI
In-person worship services with no tickets required. No cost for students; suggested donation for non-students.
United Brothers Synagogue 205 High St. Bristol, RI 02809 401-253-3460
unitedbrotherssynagogue.org info@ubsbristol.com
In person services. No ticket needed and all are welcome. Check the website for updated times
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OBITUARIES
Robert Feldman, 76 WARREN, R.I. – Robert Lewis Feldman, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully on Aug. 29, 2025, at Crestwood Nursing Home in Warren, surrounded by his family.
Bob spent his final years at Crestwood, where the staff treated him not just as a resident, but as family. Their compassion and care meant the world to him, and he was loved immensely by all who knew him there.
Born in Providence, Bob was the middle child of the late Sydney and Esther (Lucksniansky) Feldman. He graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Agriculture/Bachelor of Science, a field that reflected his lifelong passion for planting and growing. Bob took great pride in cultivating flowers, raspberries and other plants – especially the expansive raspberry field at his home in Tiverton, which brought him immense joy.
Bob was the proud owner of East Bay Electric in Tiverton, where he served the community for 45 years with dedication and skill. He previously resided in Tiverton before moving to Warren and later Anchor Bay Assisted Living. Outside of work, Bob found peace and adventure in sailing and biking, hobbies that reflected his love of nature and movement.
He was a devoted father to Deena Feldman of Fall River, Masschusetts, and Jodi Feldman and her partner, Matthew Boulay, of Somerset, Massachusetts. He was a cherished brother to Tina Crosby and her husband, Harvey, of Newton Center, Massachusetts, and was predeceased by his brother, Marvin Feldman. Bob was a loving grandfather to Arianna and Remy, and a step-grandfather to Rhea and Rowan. He also continued a deep connection and friendship to his former wife, Gerri (Kaplan) Feldman of Barrington.
Contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st St., #800, Miami, FL 33131.
Bob will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his devotion to family and the quiet joy he found in the natural world.
Lynn Field, 72 WEST GREENWICH, R.I. –Lynn Ross Field passed away in Providence with her loving family by her side on Aug.
8, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late Alan Field. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Joslin and Thelma (Klitzner) Ross. She was the dear sister of Dyann Ross and her husband, Eric Stein, of Fairfield, Connecticut. She was the devoted mother of Ryan Malloney, of North Providence, and Brendan Malloney and his wife, Lauren, of Atlanta, Georgia. She was a caring stepmother of Rachel Labutti and her husband, Kurt, of Mendon, Massachusetts; Daniel Field, of Winchester, Massachusetts; and Adam Field and his wife, Diane, of Franklin, Massachusetts. She was the loving grandmother of Jackson and Lindsey, and loving step-grandmother of Elijah, Jonah, Olivia and Emma. She was a resident of West Greenwich since 2017, previously living in North Providence. She was an alumna of Cranston West High School and the University of Rhode Island, Class of 1975.
She specialized in human resources and worked at Jones Apparel Group and, most recently, at Big Blue Bug Solutions, retiring in 2022.
Lynn was a founding member of Temple Torat Yisrael, a temple that held an incredibly dear place in her heart. She most enjoyed spending time with family and friends, knitting and watching Red Sox games.
Contributions may be made to HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904 or the charity of your choice.
Martin First, 82
Martin Roy First, beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician and friend, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, to Pearl and Solomon First, Martin’s life was defined by his unwavering compassion, fierce integrity, sharp wit and a profound sense of justice rooted in his early life experiences.
In 1971, Martin made the courageous decision to leave apartheid-era South Africa, arriving in the United States with his wife, a baby, a toddler, two suitcases and $1,000. He never looked back, building a life devoted to healing, family and justice.
Roy was a larger-than-life personality – funny, unfiltered and unforgettable. He
was a legendary prankster, notoriously known for stealing his parents’ car before he had his driver’s license. But behind the mischief was a deeply kind, empathetic man. He was loyal, dependable and the person you called in a crisis – not just because he was a doctor, but because he was a rock. He listened, he advised and he cared.
A devoted husband and father, Roy poured himself into his family. He was a committed soccer dad – so passionate that he once received a red card for defending a player being unfairly targeted, only to continue watching the game defiantly from a hill above the field. He was also a relentless feeder of family pets, especially his beloved granddog, Fenway, and former family dog, Sydney.
Professionally, Roy was a giant in the field of transplant nephrology. A graduate of the University of the Witwatersrand Health Sciences in 1966, he went on to a distinguished career at the University of Cincinnati and beyond. He authored more than 400 publications and presented and lectured around the world. He advanced immunosuppressant drug research and helped revolutionize kidney transplant medicine. He served as president of the American Society of Transplantation and received its Lifetime Achievement Award. He later held senior leadership roles at Astellas Pharma and Transplant Genomics, always staying on the cutting edge of science and patient care.
But Roy was not only a scientist – he was a healer. He treated his patients as if they were family, sometimes working 18-hour days, fighting systemic inequities and improving countless lives through transplantation. He attended patients’ weddings and even flew halfway around the world to consult for royalty. He met one US president, another first lady, other world leaders and even had an audience with the pope as a result of his selfless concern for the well-being of others. Roy never stopped advocating for those in need.
Roy’s passions included sports, travel, food and wine. He analyzed sports stats with uncanny recall and became a lifelong fan of the Cincinnati Bengals – even subjecting his family to the subzero “Freezer Bowl” in 1981. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of golf, cricket, soccer, football and rugby. Along
with his wife, he was a foodie and wine connoisseur. He was able to tell the exact amount of alcohol percentage and flavors of wine with one smell and sip. He had an ever-present sense of humor that made even the toughest situations more bearable.
Roy faced his final challenge – lung cancer – with the same bravery, honesty and clarity he brought to every part of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara (Bobbie) First; his brothers Brian and Howard First; his devoted children, Steven and his wife, Jill First, and Leonora (Leigh) First Del Sesto and her husband, Richard (Rick) Del Sesto; grandchildren, Michael Del Sesto, Ethan First, Matthew Del Sesto and Jackson First.
Donations may be made to The National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd St., New York, NY 10016 or to the American Lung Association, 235 Promenade St., Suite 125, Providence, RI 02908.
June Gordon, 88 NORTH KINGSTOWN,
R.I. –June (Fine)
Gordon, of North Kingstown, passed away peacefully on Aug. 5, 2025. Born on July 6, 1937, she was the devoted mother of three children: Andrew Gordon and his wife, Kimberly Lennox, of New York City; Daniel Gordon and his wife, Shoko
Ogata, of East Providence; and Julie Gordon and her husband, Scott Coughlin, of Salem, Massachusetts. She also leaves behind her two sisters: her identical twin, Joan Turin, and her older sister, Ruth Handy. June was the proud grandmother of Anna Coughlin, Caroline Gordon and Tal Lennox Gordon, and is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, David Gordon.
June grew up on Fine Farms in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Life on the farm instilled in her a strong work ethic, deep appreciation for learning and a lasting sense of family. She worked on the farm throughout her youth, helping support her education until graduating from college. June earned degrees from Boston University, Yeshiva University and Rhode Island College. She became a dedicated teacher of both general and special education, spending more than three decades enriching the lives of students in Seekonk and Attleboro, Massachusetts. Passionate about inclusion, she created vocational programs including horticulture and culinary arts, wrote grants to support her students and was a pioneer in bringing technology into special education classrooms. She worked closely with educators and industry leaders to build an innovative, interdisciplinary curriculum that helped students receive the support and opportunities
OBITUARIES
they deserved.
June lived in Seekonk for more than 40 years before retiring to North Kingstown, where she spent the past 23 years and formed many close friendships. A fiercely independent and strong woman, June had boundless energy and lived life fully and actively. In her younger years, she loved traveling, biking, kayaking, tennis and water aerobics. Later, she was often seen walking daily, determined to get her steps in. She was a voracious reader, ran a local book club and enjoyed playing the piano, mahjong and Mexican Train with friends.
June was known for her shocking humor and strong opinions – you never knew what she would say, but you always knew where you stood. She found joy in caring for others and was famous for urging friends and family to “Eat, eat, eat!” – a reflection of her love for sharing meals and time with the people she loved. She also had a passion for cleanliness and order, often spotted sweeping her walkway (“leaves didn’t stand a chance!”) or pushing one of her many vacuum cleaners.
June’s legacy as a compassionate mother, grandmother, teacher, friend and advocate for children with special needs will continue to inspire
all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues and the many students whose lives she touched.
Please consider contributing to the June Gordon Memorial Scholarship, established in her honor through the Attleboro Scholarship Foundation. This annual scholarship will help support college tuition for students with special needs, continuing June’s lifelong dedication to inclusive education. Donations can be made payable to the Attleboro Scholarship Foundation, Inc. and sent to 89 North Main St., P.O. Box 1666, Attleboro, MA 02703. Include “June Gordon” on the memo line.
Phillip Lerner, 77
NORTON, MASS. – Phillip M. Lerner, of Norton, formerly of East Greenwich, died at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts on June 23, 2025.
Born in Providence on May 3, 1948, he was the son of the late Martin and Charlotte (Kauffman) Lerner.
Phillip is survived by his forever sweetheart and wife of almost 53 years, Carole
(Young) Lerner; his beloved daughter, Stacey Landes, and her husband, Brent, of Attleboro, Massachusetts; his brother Steven Lerner, of Easton, Massachusetts; and sister, Margery Lerner, of Foxboro, Massachusetts; and his beloved grandsons, Ean and Gregory.
He also leaves nieces, nephews, godchildren and his cherished cat, Porsche.
Phillip was an Eagle Scout and a graduate of Hope High School. He received a bachelor’s degree from Emerson College and a master’s degree from the University of Montana. He had a successful career in Human Resource Management, specializing in Labor Relations and Contract Negotiations.
He was an avid vegetable gardener, plant enthusiast, world traveler and voracious reader.
Phillip was a Type 1 diabetic for 57 years and was one of the very few to have received a 50-year survivor medal from the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston, Massachusetts. He was known to share his vast knowledge about diabetes management with others in need.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the camp scholarship program at the Barton Center for Diabetes Education, P.O. Box 356, North Oxford, MA 01537 or the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Breakthrough TID, P.O. Box 5044, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5044.
Dr. Kenneth Liffmann, 96 CRANSTON, R.I. – Dr. Kenneth E. Liffmann died on Aug. 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was the beloved husband of Deena (Brodsky) Liffmann for 68 years. Born in Dusseldorf, Germany, the son of the late Max and Alice (Gabriel) Liffmann, he had lived in Cranston since 1962.
A graduate of Brown University, Harvard Dental School and Tufts Medical School, Kenneth began his medical practice and served as a captain in the United States Air Force in Limestone, Maine. After completion of his military service, Kenneth returned to Rhode Island, where he practiced surgery at Rhode Island Hospital for 40 years. He was a former member of the board of directors of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, a former executive director of the Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association of Rhode Island and a member
of Temple Beth-El. He was the devoted father of Karen Liffmann and her spouse, Dr. Nicholas P. Bruno, of Providence; Joel Liffmann and his wife, Karen, of Rye Brook, New York; and Steven Liffmann and his wife, Laurie, of Salem, New Hampshire. He was the loving grandfather of Elizabeth Ducoff (Nick), Mark Sigal (Emily), Jeffrey Liffmann (Mason), Rachel Sinensky (Peter), Sarah Fernberger (Zach), Tyler Liffmann, Danielle Kruger (Jeremy) and Matthew Liffmann (Gabrielle). He was the cherished great-grandfather of 11. Contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.
Jenifer Madison, 52 EAST GREENWICH, R.I. –Jenifer M. Madison died on July 3, 2025, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center, in Providence, with her loving family by her side. She was the beloved mother of Maya L. Madison. Born in Silver Spring, Maryland, she was the loving daughter of Eva (Weissman) Silver. She had lived in East Greenwich for the last 12 years, previously living in Sharon, Massachusetts, and Scotts Plains, New Jersey.
Jenifer, a Pilgrim High School graduate, earned a double-bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Women’s Studies from Brandeis University and was an alum of Emory University, where she received a master’s in public health. She loved her 10 years working as a district manager with the Kingston Fire District. Previously she worked with the AIDS Service Center in Manhattan, New York, and Health Ed in New Jersey.
Jenifer was a devoted mother who encouraged her daughter to always go after her dreams, even in fear. The faithful pushes she gave her daughter led her to her first ever lead role in “Fun on 42nd Street” at the local library, an opportunity which, despite Maya’s protests, led her to becoming the performer she is today. The pride Jenifer had in her daughter in these times was palpable and carried on throughout the rest of her life. An avid reader of women’s fiction novels, she was a passionate novice photographer and truly appreciated every nook and cranny of Rhode Island. Whether it was hiking, walking the beach or
basking on the cruise deck at sunset, she reveled in her presence at every ocean wave. She enjoyed cooking and kept up with her many friends from all over the country.
Aside from her loving mother, Eva, Jenifer is survived by her father, Jack Silver; her sister, Rebecca Zola, and her son, Brandon; her Aunt Harriet and Uncle Steve Lowe; and cousins, Brian Lowe, Garett Lowe and Samantha Hark.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Inc., 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215 [https://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/site/Donation2?df_ id=2100&mfc_pref=T&2100. donation=form1] or a charity of your choice
Judith Mayer, 92 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Judith Daly Mayer died on Sept. 1, 2025, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice, Providence. She was the beloved wife of Howard Mayer for 72 years. Born in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Rivka (Mendelblatt) Daly. She raised her family in Greater Bridgeport, Connecticut, where she lived for 40 years, and was an office manager and bookkeeper for several businesses including Carpet World in Bridgeport.
While in Connecticut, Judith was an active member of Congregation Beth El, Fairfield, Connecticut, serving as vice president and long-time board member. Upon retirement, Judith and Howard moved to Sanibel Island, Florida, where they lived for 30 years. While in Sanibel, Judith was a member of Temple Judea, Fort Myers, Florida; and Bat Yam Temple of the Islands, Sanibel.
Three years ago, Judith and Howard moved to Providence, to live with their son, Brian, and daughter-in-law, Lynn, and became active members of Temple Emanu-El, Providence. Judith was a lifetime member of Hadassah, involved in the Fort Myers Jewish Federation, an active member of the National Council of Jewish Women, and with her husband, was the founder of a microbank for the Abayudaya Jews of Uganda.
She was the devoted mother and mother-in-law of Jonathan and Maureen Mayer, of
Certified by the Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island Jacquelyn Aubuchon, Funeral Director
OBITUARIES
Wesley Chapel, Florida; Cantor Brian Mayer and Cantor Lynn Torgove, of Providence; Ross Brandman of Norwalk, Connecticut; and former mother-in-law of Dr. Suzanne Herzberg of Providence. She was the dear sister of the late Hyman Daly, Hannah Daly Greenberg and Bernard Daly. She was the loving grandmother of Eric, Katie, David, Raphael, Daniel, Jonah, and the late Ryan. She was the cherished great-grandmother of Grayson, Maveric, Franklin, Julian and Morgan.
Contributions may be made to Hadassah, 40 Wall St., NYC, NY 10005 and HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice – Philanthropy, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904.
Kenneth Miller, 60 WEST KINGSTON, R.I. –Kenneth A. Miller died on Aug. 15, 2025, at Kent Hospital in Warwick.
Born in Providence, he was the beloved son of Sanford and Joyce (Mayberg) Miller, of Warwick, and a dear brother of Lawrence Miller, of Smithfield. He had lived in West Kingston for the last 12 years.
Ken loved to create art and was a staple to the Out of the Box Art community. His passion for creating was contagious. Each star that he drew was unique and expressed his calm and kind nature. Ken was part of the Bridges Bombers bowling team for 10 years and participated in Special Olympics competitions for basketball and softball and was a gold medalist for bowling.
Ken’s infectious smile, unwavering patience (especially when teaching others how to communicate with ASL) and profound kindness touched everyone he met, and his legacy will live on through the many lives he enriched.
Aside from his parents and brother, he is survived by many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. Ken will be missed by his family and his many friends, especially his housemates Frank, Nya and Jose.
Kenneth’s family gives thanks to all of the people who have helped and supported Kenneth over the years.
Contributions may be made to Looking Upwards, Inc., P.O. Box 4289, Middletown, RI 02842.
Paul Mossberg, 59 BROOKLINE, MASS. – Paul Mossberg died on Aug. 9, 2025, at his home in Brookline. Paul was the beloved brother of Rose Malkin and her husband, David, and beloved uncle of Sam and Jack Malkin. Born in Providence, Paul was the son of the late Beatrice (Aron) and Irving Mossberg.
Paul had lived in Cranston for most of his life, moving to Brookline and joining the Specialized Housing Community in 2007. Before retiring due to his illness, Paul was an employee of Sodexo at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Paul was an active member of Yachad, an avid bowler and a music lover.
In addition to his family in Rhode Island, Paul leaves behind his second family, his friends, housemates and the staff of his home in Brookline. Rose and David extend their most heartfelt love and gratitude to Katie Fortier and to all of the Specialized Housing staff in Brookline for their exceptional kindness, care and compassion. Over these past 18 months, Paul’s cancer journey was made infinitely easier because of the understanding and gentle guidance of Melissa Levin at the Neuro-Inclusive Oncology Care and Empowerment Program at Dana-Farber.
Contributions in Paul’s memory may be made to: Specialized Housing, Inc., 2000 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 200, Auburndale, MA 02466, or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, in support of Neuro-Inclusive Oncology Care and Empowerment Program, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 [or via dana-farber.org/gift].
Jeanette Richman, 104
BOCA RATON, FLA. -
Jeannette Richman, formerly of Cranston, died peacefully at her home in Boca Raton on July 30, 2025, with her devoted and loving son, Elliott, by her side. She was born in Boston on Dec. 7, 1920, to Albert and Sarah (Adelson) Travis and raised in Providence. She was the middle child with an older sister Esther and a younger sister Frieda. Her father was a jeweler who opened one of the first jewelry businesses in the Boston Jewelers Building, Travis Farber, which is still in business today.
At age 3, she moved with her family from Boston to Providence. Her parents joined Temple Beth-El in Providence in 1923, and Jeannette was Temple Beth-El’s oldest and longest continu-
ous member. She attended Roger Williams Junior High, graduated from Central High School and took courses at Bryant & Stratton Business School.
Jeannette sold war bonds during WWII and worked as a bookkeeper at a factory before the war. She also volunteered to knit sweaters for soldiers overseas. As fate would have it, one of those sweaters (which was too small) was passed to another soldier – Private Julius Richman, stationed in France. Julius wrote Jeannette a thank-you note, and for two years they corresponded while he served in Europe.
When the war ended, they met in person and were married in 1946, raising their family in Cranston. Jeannette was married to Julius for 50 years, until his death in 1996.
After raising her sons, Albert and Elliott, Jeannette worked at Brown University for many years managing the Brown University Credit Union. She loved the energy of the campus - the students, the faculty and even the hippies protesting during the Vietnam War!
Jeannette was a devoted and loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Outgoing and exceedingly active, she enjoyed lifelong friendships and made new friends wherever she went. She was an avid mahjong, bridge and gin rummy player and enjoyed traveling. Always baking mandel cookies for her neighbors, she made gift bags of cookies for all the guests at her 100th birthday party. She is remembered for her delicious kugels and matzah ball soup. In 2004, at the age of 83, Jeannette celebrated her Bat Mitzvah at Masada in Israel.
Jeannette gave back in countless ways. She served as president of the Jewish War Veterans Auxiliary in Rhode Island and later as president and treasurer of “We Care” at Century Village Boca Raton, a support organization that provided medical equipment and transportation for the visually impaired and for seniors needing rides to doctor appointments.
Jeannette was an eternal optimist whose energetic spirit, wisdom and boundless love touched everyone around her. Her caring nature and deep devotion to family, friends and neighbors remained the steady heart of a life fully and gracefully lived. Jeannette was truly an Eshet Chayil, a Woman of Valor.
She is survived by her children, Albert (Laura) Richman, of Livingston, New Jersey; and Elliott (Phyllis) Richman, of Milton, Massachusetts. She was the beloved grandmother of Allison (Robert) Roman, Deborah (Bradley) Seiden, Alexander Richman and Benjamin Richman, and the proud great-grandmother of Joey Lynn Roman. She was the dear sister of the late Esther (David) Lecht and Frieda (Joseph) DelCarlos, and she was the cherished aunt of many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
Contributions may be made to Temple Beth-El, Rabbi Sarah Mack Discretionary Fund, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence, R.I. 02906.
Harvey Wagner, 83 WEST WARWICK, R.I. –Harvey A. Wagner died on Aug. 6, 2025, at the Kent Regency Center in Warwick. He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Burns) Wagner for 41 years. Born in Providence, a son of the late Herbert B. and Tessie (Brockman) Wagner, he had lived in West Warwick for 5 years, previously living in Warwick. He was the owner and lead architect of Wagner Design in Warwick for nearly 50 years; his experience was unmatched and allowed him the honor of designing the now established Station Fire Memorial in West Warwick. Harvey was a Vietnam veteran with the United States Army, and proudly he served as a Second Lieutenant. He was a member of the Touro Fraternal Association and the Warwick Building Code: Board of Review. He was a coach with Special Olympics
for 19 years.
He was the devoted father of Brian Wagner and his wife, Debra, of West Warwick; Ann Phillips, of Warwick; Eileen Sammartino and her husband, David, of Warwick; and John Manchester, of West Warwick. He was the dear brother of Joan Tebrow, of West Warwick, and Mayda Gottfried Abrams, of Sleepy Hollow, New York. He was the loving grandfather of six and cherished great-grandfather of one.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Special Olympics Rhode Island, 370 George Washington Highway, Smithfield, RI 02917 [https://support. specialolympics.org/a/ rhode-island?ms=IDMP_ DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_ campaign=IDMP]
Alan Weisberg, 75 CUMBERLAND, R.I. – Alan Michael Weisberg, of Cumberland, passed away unexpectedly on July 29, 2025, at his residence.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Jacob and Sophie (Cohen) Weisberg.
Alan worked at Men’s Warehouse for many years before retiring.
He is survived by his longtime companion, Margaret Dines, of Cambridge, Massachusetts; two sons, Matthew and Brett Weisberg; and his brother, Robert Weisberg and his wife, Diane Ryan, of Hollywood, Florida.
