Volume xX, Issue XXIIV | thejewishvoice.org Serving Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts
30 Shevat 5774 | January 31, 2014
FINANCIAL PLANNING
H. Jack Feibelman honored as the The Miriam Hospital Person of the Year for 2013 By voice staff Upon meeting Jack Feibelman, one is immediately struck by his quiet yet powerful presence. He has been described as a “modest man” who “doesn’t like the spotlight or a lot of hoopla.” Jack was recently honored as The Miriam Hospital Person of the Year at the hospital’s annual meeting for his long history of support and leadership at the hospital. The Miriam provides high-quality care in a very personalized and compassionate setting. He served as a member of the hospital’s board of governors from 2001 to 2007, the HONORED | 6
COURTESY PHOTO | BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY
H. Jack Feibelman
town hall meeting addresses living on the edge Battling financial adversity: it takes a village BY KARA MARZIALI kmarziali@jewishallianceri.org
“Life In Stills”
“Life in Stills”, a documentary by Tamar Tal that focuses on the work of the legendary Israeli photographer Rudi Weissenstein. SEE PAGE 18
Most New Englanders have attended town hall meetings during which the locals participate in an informal public forum, voicing their opinions and asking questions about issues relevant to the community. The reason for the Alliance Town Hall Meeting on January 16 was to better understand the economic challenges and needs of the Greater Rhode Island Jewish households, as acknowledged in a recent study. More than a year ago, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, with the sup-
port of Alan Hassenfeld, commissioned the Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies at Brandeis University to examine the economic status of Greater Rhode Island’s Jewish community. Jeffrey K. Savit, president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance, invited the research team – led by Fern Chertok and Daniel Parmer – to share their findings. More than 50 community members, including clergy and agency professionals, were present. “The Town Hall Meeting served several purposes,” said Savit. “It brought people together, helped strengthen communal ties and promoted
working jointly to tackle community problems.” To assure the audience of the reliability and credibility of the study, Chertok and Parmer explained that multiple research markers were employed. The findings analyzed the economic status of RI Jewish households, services currently available throughout the community and requests for assistance made to synagogues. The research showed that two percent of Jewish households in the Alliance service area fall below the federal poverty guidelines. TOWN HALL | 13
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INSIDE Business 26-27
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Students at Providence Hebrew Day School honor Martin Luther King Jr. Acknowledging Dr. King’s legacy through art
Calendar 8-9 Community 2-6, 8-9, 12-14, 1718, 30, 32, 34 D’var Torah 7 Finance & Philanthropy 19-25, 27 Food 14-15 Obituaries 31-32 Opinion 10-11 Seniors 28-29 Simchas 35 We Are Read 33
THIS ISSUE’S QUOTABLE QUOTE “Each one of us has that Divine Spark within us.”
By Miriam E. Weiner On Monday, January 20, students at the Providence Hebrew Day School gathered to commemorate and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., general studies teacher in grades 3 and 4, Ms. Aly WestonMurphy, prepared this program for students in grades 1-8. The assembly began with a video presentation by the fourth grade students. As part of their study of Readers’ Theater, the students performed the skit “I Have a Dream” by Mack Lewis, and their teacher recorded it. This skit briefly explains how Dr. King, as a child, understood the problem of discrimination; he knew that it needed to be addressed but did not think he would be the one to do so. By the end of the skit, with Dr. King’s famous speech at the March on Washington, the audience saw that he had the power to make a difference. At the conclusion of the skit, each student was given a piece of paper displaying one word or phrase. These included “All men are created equal,” “Brave” and “Peace.” Students made
PHDS second graders, Naftali Schochet and Miriam Rosenthal are hard at work during the school’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day assembly. pencil sketches illustrating what these words and phrases meant to them. Afterward, they mounted their depictions on colored paper. Selections of this work will be displayed on the school’s front bulletin board in February.
The third grade students had made samples of this project to serve as models for the other students, and they assisted their schoolmates during this activity. This assembly reminded both students and teachers of the
need to show gratitude to Dr. King for the huge impact he had on our country’s understanding of freedom and equality. Miriam Esther Weiner is the principal at Providence Hebrew Day School.
COMMUNITY
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Celebrate Jewish Disability Awareness Month See ability in everyone
By Irina Missiuro imissiuro@jewishallianceri.org February is Jewish Disability Awareness Month. Established in 2009 by the Jewish Special Education International Consortium, JDAM is changing the way people with disabilities are perceived. Just because someone has a disability doesn’t mean that he or she is less valuable to the community. In fact, JDAM urges Jews to involve people with disabilities in all aspects of community; the self-advocacy anthem “Nothing About Us Without Us” describes the underlying goal aptly. The initiative, led by Jewish organizations worldwide, promotes inclusion of people with disabilities in the Jewish life through common programs that raise awareness. Shelly Christensen, Consultant and Co-Founder of JDAM, shares her thoughts on the enterprise with The Jewish Voice readers, “Jewish Disability Awareness Month is a catalyst for change in Jewish communities and organizations and is proof that meaningful inclusion of people with disabilities in Jewish life is the responsibility of each one of us. By bringing everyone together in
this unified initiative, we have been able to expand the scope of inclusion so that it is high on the priorities of Jewish organizations and communities. We hope that JDAM continues to raise awareness. That being said, the objective of JDAM will be reached when people with disabilities feel that they belong to the Jewish community in ways of their own choosing.” JDAM’s Program Guide (you may download the PDF at jewishfamilyservice.org/_literature_194404/JDA M _ Program_Guide_2014) emphasizes that Jewish Text is the founda-
goals of JDAM are to elevate society’s perception of people with disabilities, foster empathy and encourage Jews to welcome people with disabilities into their lives and communities. Looking to become involved
sanctuary, in your organization and in your community. The main suggestion that the guide offers, however, is to start advancing the cause by changing your mindset. A contribution of support and collaboration would be much
in the initiative? You can gain much knowledge from the guide, which offers a study model, lists published resources and suggests numerous ideas – and detailed instructions on how to execute them – on becoming inclusive in your
more valuable than one of separation (i.e., enacting special programs that emphasize difference by their nature). Instead of distinguishing people with disabilities as those of need, befriend your acquaintances with disabilities and
“We hope that JDAM continues to raise awareness.” tion for the initiative. It states, “The Mission of JDAM is to remind Jewish communities that we are all created B’tzelem Elohim, in the Divine Image. … Each one of us has that Divine Spark within us, and as Jews we are responsible to ensure that no one is cut off from living the Jewish life of his or her choosing.” The concrete
greet strangers on the margins in your community whom you haven’t gotten to know yet. Make the first step not only toward participation in JDAM, but also toward a new attitude. The guide sums it up with its philosophy: “We do not do things for people with disabilities. We do things with people with disabilities.” One of the initiative’s programs, JDAM Reads, has chosen “Hope Will Find You: My Search for the Wisdom to Stop Waiting and Start Living” by Rabbi Naomi Levy, founder and spiritual leader of Nashuva, and “Cakes and Miracles” by Barbara Diamond Goldin as the official selections of 2014. On Thursday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m., Levy will host a webinar during which she will answer questions and discuss her moving memoir that focuses on the struggles inherent to raising a child with special needs. You can register for this international event at at tendee.gotowebi na r.com / register/9183868039197476610. In addition, you may find the book discussion questions on JDAM’s Facebook page, facebook.com/JewishDisabilityAWARENESS | 34
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The Jewish voice
SUSAN ADlER
These men are shopping and stocking
Ethan Adler (left) and Steven Adler (right) helped with shopping and stocking the shelves of The Louis and Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry. The pantry is intended to help supplement those in need. If you need food or know somebody who does, contact Susan Adler at 621-5374 or sadlerjeri@jsari.org. It would be such a mitzvah to have a food drive to help those in our Jewish community. The pantry is located at the Jewish Seniors Agency of Rhode Island, 100 Niantic Avenue, Providence, R.I. and open every Tuesday and Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The pantry is a partner agency with the Jewish Alliance.
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SIX-word memoir Everyone has a story to tell… and everyone should have a place to tell it
Stephanie Malinow
From left to right: Ava Andoscia, Julie Andoscia (mom), Sarah Floody, Jennifer Moskol Floody (mom) and Colin Floody.
Julie and Jen from Camp JORI meet as moms at PJ Library Story Hour By Stephanie Malinow It was a sunny Sunday morning in January, and the PJ Library Story Hour at Congregation Beth David in Narragansett was about to begin. The kids had taken off their jackets and were scrambling for seats, and the grown-ups continued to chat. As I prepared to begin the story, I overheard the following: “You look so familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?” And the reply, “Camp JORI? Of course, I remember you!” The women finally joined the circle, and the reunion was set aside … but not for long. After the story ended, and the children were enthusiastically engaged in their craft activity, the moms exchanged email and phone information. When we met the following month, the little ones greeted
one another warmly at the door. A play date had successfully set the groundwork for this “second generation” friendship. It has now been two years, and Ava Andoscia
(with mom Julie) and Sarah and Colin Floody (with mom Jen) continue to attend PJ Library Story Hour. They join us for our PJ Kabbalat Shabbat
each month, and have also celebrated Hanukkah and birthdays together. In addition to sharing memories of camp, so many years ago, both women have discovered a delightful way to introduce their young children to the marvelous stories and traditions of Judaism, and hope that they will continue to be friends for many years. Stephanie Malinow has been working with children for more than 30 years. She now volunteers as a PJ Library storyteller at Congregation Beth David in Narragansett, and recently initiated a “PJ Kabbalat Shabbat.”
To communicate something meaningful in exactly six words might seem preposterous, if not impossible. However, in 2006, writer and editor Larry Smith dared fans of his online publication, SMITH Magazine, to describe their lives in six words. The SixWord Memoir challenge officially ended after a month, but the stories kept coming. Since the series’ debut, participants have contributed more than 700,000 mini-memoirs. Smith has published five compilations of personal accounts, including the bestseller “Not Quite What I Was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous and Obscure.” Some are profound, some are sad, and some are funny. All are deeply personal because it is a selective and creative avenue for selfexpression. Oprah Winfrey wrote “Seeking the fullest expression of self” and comedian Stephen Colbert penned “Well, I thought it was funny.” “Love me or leave me alone” was scribbled on a hand dryer in a public bathroom and “I still make coffee for two” was composed by a 27-year-old who had just been dumped. And Smith’s own memoir? “Big hair, big heart, big hurry.” Smith continues to spark the creativity of aspiring writers. He has motivated thousands of individuals – in boardrooms, classrooms and family rooms – to start writing their Six-Word Memoirs. “There is inspiration
everywhere,” he says. “Even if you don’t think you’re a storyteller, you are.” The Jewish Alliance wants the greater Rhode Island community to rethink the notion of “writer” and “memoir” by offering a simple platform to share the short, sharp story of your life. Submit your sixword story to jewishallianceri.org by February 28, 2014, and become part of the Jewish storytelling tradition. Submissions will be used to create the exhibit, “Everyone Has a Story to Tell,” on view in gallery(401) at the Dwares JCC from March 13 through April 11. The exhibit will honor Alliance members and friends who respond to this personal challenge and represent both individual stories as well as a larger story that epitomizes the whole community. All of the individual memoirs will appear exactly how they are received. If the author used punctuation or did not, that will be reflected. Nothing, including content will be edited or censored. Ensuring each author’s true freedom of expression, no names will be displayed in the exhibit. Give six a try – and make your words count—because everyone has a story to tell. For more information, contact Erin Moseley Director of Arts and Culture at emoseley@jewishallianceri. org or 421-4111, ext. 108.
For information she can be contacted at sjmalinow@ gmail.com.
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Kara Marziali, Alliance Director of Communications Brian Sullivan, Alliance Director of Marketing
COLUMNISTS Dr. Stanley Aronson, Michael Fink, Rabbi James Rosenberg and Daniel Stieglitz Editorial Board Toby London, chair; John Landry, vice chair; Stacy Emanuel, Alliance vice chair; Brian Evans, Jonathan Friesem, Steve Jacobson, Rabbi Marc Jagolinzer, Eleanor Lewis, Richard Shein, Jonathan Stanzler and Susan Youngwood.
Copy Deadlines All news releases, THE JEWISH VOICE (ISSN number 1539- photographs, etc., must be received 2104, USPS #465-710) is published bi-week- on the Thursday two weeks prior to ly, except in July, when it does not publish. publication. Submissions may be sent to: editor@jewishallianceri.org. PERIODICALS Postage paid at Providence, R.I. Advertising We do not accept advertisements for pork or shellfish. We do POSTMASTER Send address changes to: not attest to the kashrut of any product The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., or the legitimacy of our advertisers’ Providence, RI 02906. claims.
design & layout Leah M. Camara
CONTRIBUTING WRITER Irina Missiuro
PUBLISHER The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Chair Sharon Gaines, President/CEO Jeffrey K. Savit, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906. Phone: 401-421-4111 • Fax 401-331-7961
Advertising representatives Editorial ConsultantS Tricia Stearly • tstearly@jewishalIrina Missiuro | Judith Romney lianceri.org 421-4111, ext. 160 Wegner Karen Borger • ksborger@gmail. CALENDAR COORDINATOR com 529-2538 Toby London
MEMBER of the Rhode Island Press Association
All submitted content becomes the property of The Voice. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of The Voice or its publisher, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.
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HONORED
finance committee from 2006 to 2012, and the Foundation board of trustees since 2011. A well-known figure in the Rhode Island business community, Jack founded A&H Mfg. Co. in 1967 to produce a new concept for displaying jewelry that revolutionized the fashion jewelry industry. Remarkably, in 2001, at the age of 82, Jack received a Master of Arts degree from Brown University. He is an active member of Temple Sinai and Temple Beth-El who has brought decades of knowledge related to philanthropy and his own generosity to both the hospital and the Jewish community. To this day, he continues to live life with quiet gusto. “He has always shared his sharp business acumen and quickly related it to The Miriam’s finances,” said Alan H. Litwin, CPA, chair of The Miri-
am Hospital Foundation board of trustees and fellow finance committee member “Jack, in his quiet manner, has had an incredibly powerful influence over The Miriam and we are proud to honor him for his contributions to the hospital.” Jeffrey K. Savit, President and CEO of the Jewish Alliance, remarked, “Jack Feibelman is one such treasured role model. I have never met anyone as simultaneously humble, compassionate and philanthropic as Jack. He is a great friend not only to me but also, more importantly, to our entire community. No one is more deserving to be The Miriam Hospital Person of the Year than Jack.” Jack, congratulations, and thank you for your commitment to The Miriam and to our Jewish community.
The Jewish Voice
The Miriam Hospital’s recent accomplishments From the hospital’s 2013 annual meeting
• The Miriam was named the top hospital in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts according to U.S. News & World Report. The hospital was recognized as high-performing in eight medical specialties, including cancer, diabetes/ endocrinology, gastroenterology and surgery, geriatrics, nephrology, neurology and neurosurgery, pulmonology and urology. • The Total Joint Center achieved its goal of performing 1,300 joint replacements during 2013 and was recently awarded the Barnet Fain Award for the Transfusion Reduction Project. • The Miriam launched a Minimally Invasive Urology Institute made possible by generous philanthropic gifts. • Through the generosity of donors, The Miriam Hospital
Prof. Cheryl Greenberg to speak on Black-Jewish Relations Lunch and lecture at Temple Habonim on Sunday, February 9
In celebration of Black History Month, “Black-Jewish Relations: Why Should We Care?” is the topic of the “Time for Me” Adult Education series at Temple Habonim in Barrington. On Sunday, February 9, at 1 p.m., a light lunch will be followed by the program with Professor Cheryl Greenberg of Trinity College at 1:30 p.m. Greenberg will look back at the history of Black-Jewish rela-
tions in the 20th century and explore racism, anti-Semitism, class, liberalism and affirmative action. She will speak on the changes that have occurred since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. marched arm-in-arm with Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and since the ugly confrontations have taken place in Ocean Hill-Brownsville or Crown Heights. Dr. Cheryl Greenberg teaches
courses in African American history and the history of race in the United States, as well as courses on crime, discrimination and social justice movements. She has authored the book “Troubling Waters: BlackJewish Relations in the American Century,” as well as books on civil rights, Harlem and the Great Depression. For more information, go to templehabonim.org or call the temple office at 401-2456536. This program is free and open to the community.
Foundation was the recipient of contributions totaling $9.3 million during fiscal year 2013. • Through philanthropy, The Miriam was able to acquire a new state-of-the art da Vinci Si HD surgical robot, further expanding its abilities in the minimally invasive realm. Since 2006, more than 1,800 roboti-
cally assisted surgeries have been performed at Miriam, 1,245 of them prostatectomies. • Last year, committed to conducting cutting-edge research, the Miriam Hospital received a total of a $27 million in external research funding from agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Langevin’s statement on the death of Ariel Sharon Washington, DC - Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) issued the following statement in response to the death of Ariel Sharon: I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ariel Sharon, a champion of Israel and a good man I was honored to know. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends, and I pray that they gain some closure now that their beloved Sharon is at peace.
The last time I saw the former Prime Minister was in his office on the eve of disengagement from Gaza. It was a bold attempt to move the region closer to peace. While that dream has not yet been realized, Sharon’s vision of a strong and secure nation for the people of Israel lives on. His contributions to Israel and the world will never be forgotten.
Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund invites grant applications Fund seeks to support innovative programs for Jewish women and girls The Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund (WAEF) of the Jewish Federation Foundation invites grant proposals for the upcoming fiscal year, July 2014 – June 2015. “We are particularly interested in programs that focus on women and girls,” said Deborah Skolnick Einhorn, co-chair of the WAEF. “Last year we were more proactive about connecting with the grant applicants to make sure the programs fit our core mission. We funded only six programs in order to have more impact on fewer projects.” The WAEF has approximately $5,900 available for grants this year. Since 1997, it has distributed nearly $64,000 in grants locally and
in Israel to a wide array of programs and service providers. Past programs that have been funded include a workshop for expectant mothers at the Shalom Family Parent Resource Center, Adult Day Services at the Jewish Seniors Agency and a Leadership Development Program for women at the Israel Association for Child Protection (ELI). The 100 members of the WAEF are encouraged to participate in the annual allocation process. WAEF membership requires a minimum donation of $1,000, payable over three years. “We hope more women will join the WAEF this year or de-
cide to renew their commitment so we can have an even greater impact,” said Barbara Feldstein, co-chair of the WAEF. “Every year as the fund grows, we are able to allocate more funds.” The WAEF request for proposals will be sent to area synagogues, agencies and organizations; grant requests must be received by Friday, March 14. Grant recipients will be notified in May 2014. FOR MORE INFORMATION about WAEF grants or to become a WAEF member, contact Trine Lustig, senior development officer for the Alliance, at 421-4111 or tlustig@jewishallianceri. org.
D’VAR TORAH
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Remembering who you are by what you wear By Rabbi Elyse Wechterman This week’s parsha continues the detailed instructions for the building of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and creating all its adornments and utensils. The focus now is on the garments of the high priest. The reading carefully lays out the exact dimensions, fabric, measurements and look of the tunic and robe the priest would wear as well as the jewel-encrusted breastplate that would rest on his chest. The items are luxurious in nature – nothing is spared. There are gold rings, gold threads, silks, rich colors of purple and crimson. The breastplate is encrusted with precious and semi-precious stones of all colors. Each piece is imbued with symbolism and meaning. The breastplate in particular is worth looking at. It is set with 12 stones: four rows of three stones each of very specific color and style. 17 “Set in it mounted stones, in four rows of stones. The first row shall be a row of carnelian, chrysolite, and emerald; 18 the second row: a turquoise, a sapphire, and an amethyst; 19 the third row: a jacinth, an agate, and a crystal; 20 and the fourth row: a beryl, a lapis lazuli, and a jasper. They shall be framed with gold in their mountings. 21 The stones shall correspond [in number] to the names of the sons of Israel: twelve, corresponding to their names. They shall be engraved like seals, each with its name, for the twelve tribes.” (Exodus
28:17-21) Twelve stones set in a particular order and style representing Jacob’s 12 sons and/or the 12 tribes of Israel. Clearly this is meant to impress, to show the weight of Israel, the value of Israel to those who would see it. So the obvious question is, “who sees this magnificent work of art? To whom is the grandeur directed?” This is the outfit the high priest will wear when he offers sacrifices and enters the Holy of Holies – the innermost chamber of the Mishkan (and later the Temple) on that holiest of days, Yom Kippur. Certainly the Israelites would see the breastplate – but only from afar and not for very long. One could say that God would see it – but so what? Doesn’t God see all any way?
Tetzaveh, 2014
will also look at himself and know that he is there fulfilling a role, playing a part. He is not there on his own behalf or out of particular merit, but because it is his job to be there on behalf of the people Israel. The breastplate is a beautiful and powerful reminder to its wearer of his responsibility and obligations to others and
“The priests’ garments are supposed to change his behavior, make him act differently.” I would suggest that the grandeur, luxury, weightiness and splendor of the breastplate – maybe of all the garments – are designed for the priest himself to see. It is he who will stand before God on behalf of the people. And in wearing these garments, it will be impossible for him to forget on whose behalf he is there – after all, all 12 tribes are embossed on his chest! He
to the holy work at hand. Let’s contrast this for a moment with our modern adornments and clothing. So often what we wear is meant to impress others: the right labels,
the latest fashions and the witty statements on our T-shirts or the brands we advertise. The audience for these items is everyone else. We wear rubber bracelets or political buttons to “raise awareness” of issues we care about to others. Our clothing and our style make “statements.” We are so worried about telling other people what we think or what we care about that these items don’t really impact our behavior, our actions or us. They are just about advertising something to someone else. However, the priest’s garments are supposed to change his behavior, make him act differently. In many ways, this is the reason I choose to wear a kippah – a yarmulke – most of the time. Sure, it tells other people that I am Jewish. To many people, it indicates that I am a rabbi. But really, it is supposed to be telling me something – giving me the message that there is something above or beyond me to whom I owe allegiance; that I am not the arbiter of my own fate. It reminds me, I hope, that I have certain obligations to behave in certain ways that reflect my values. The same is true for the “Tallit katan” the small tallit with tzittzit (fringes) that are traditionally worn by all adult men under their clothes at all times. It isn’t for others to see – it is private, for the wearer to remember the mitzvot he must perform.
We, human beings, are very forgetful and we need reminders – not for the sake of others, but for ourselves. How do you remember who you are in the world on a daily basis? What do you wear that prevents you from “forgetting yourself?” How do the clothes you wear, that others may see, impress upon you your own value, your own self-worth? And do you like the message you are telling yourself? Rabbi Elyse Wechterman is the spiritual leader of Congregation Agudas Achim, a Reconstructionist synagogue in Attleboro, MA.
Candle Lighting Times Greater Rhode Island Jan. 31.......................4:41 Feb. 7..........................4:50 Feb. 14.......................4:59 Feb. 21.......................5:07
Making Jewish Life Affordable When it comes to developing a positive Jewish identity, many experiences have high returns. According to various studies, overnight Jewish camping, Jewish day school education, and travel to Israel in one’s teens or twenties stand out among other rites of passage. The Alliance’s Department of Jewish Living prioritizes the task of making these experiences more affordable. Over the past couple of months, readers of The Jewish Voice may have noticed various articles mentioning some of these initiatives. The purpose of this one is to clarify how these programs apply to them or their families because each initiative has different requirements. One important measure to encourage children’s involvement in Jewish community is known as One Happy Camper. To support overnight Jewish camping, the Foundation for Jewish Camp, the Jewish Alliance
partner, offers one-time $1,000 grants to first-time campers. This financial assistance is unique because it is not needbased. In addition, the Alliance is planning to cooperate with BunkConnect, a small-scale program that will discount some camp beds by multiples of $1,000. This one, however, is a need-based program, though first-time applicants may rate themselves anonymously to determine if they qualify. Besides supporting Jewish camp and school attendance, The Alliance has a few initiatives that encourage travel to Israel. One program is known as the Gift of Israel. When a child enters third grade, the initiative allows the family to start setting aside $150 per year towards a trip to Israel and receive matching grants of $250 from their synagogue and from the Jewish Federation Foundation. This is equivalent to a 266% return on each year’s in-
One Happy Camper Registration is ongoing; less than 25 spots available Gift of Israel Registration is ongoing, enrollment begins in grade 3
vestment. Unused family contributions are completely refundable. The Alliance also offers grants and scholarships to Jews younger than 26 who wish to travel to Israel. Moreover, the Alliance provides a substantial allocation to Birthright, an education organization that grants complimentary ten-day trips to Israel. Beginning with the summer 2014 registration, opening on Feb. 19, applicants between the ages of 18-26 who
had made a prior visit to Israel on an organized peer trip before they reached the age of 18 may not apply. Readers looking to find guidance on which program might best fit their child’s interests can turn to the Alliance. For more information, contact Elanah Chassen at echassen@jewishallianceri.org or 421-4111, ext. 140.
Taglit-Birthright Registration for summer 2014 opens Wednesday, February 19 at 10 a.m. Israel Travel Grants and Scholarships Applications for summer, fall, and year-long programs are due by March 14, 2014. for more information
contact Elanah Chassen at echassen@ jewishallianceri.org or call 421-4111, ext. 140
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CALENDAR Ongoing Alliance Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Noon – lunch; 12:45 p.m. – program. $3 lunch donation from individuals 60+ or under-60 with disabilities. Neal or Elaine, 861-8800, ext. 107 Am David Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every weekday. Temple Am David, 40 Gardiner St., Warwick. 11:15 a.m. – program; noon – lunch. $3 lunch donation from individuals 60+ or under- 60 with disabilities. Elaine or Steve, 732-0047
Continuing Through Feb. 27 Group Show at Habonim. 36 works by 21 artists, members of Lifelong Learning Collaborative Plein Air class. Temple Habonim, 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Wednesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and by appointment. 245-6536 or gallery@templehabonim.org
Continuing Through Feb. 28 “Your Fortunate Eyes.” Exhibit of photographs from 1930s-50s by Rudi Weissenstein, curated by Ben Peter, Michal Amran and Andreas Grau-Fuchs, Pri-Or PhotoHouse, Tel Aviv. See Feb. 5 entry for opening reception information. gallery (401), Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sundays by appointment. Erin Moseley at emoseley@jewishallianceri.org or 421-4111, ext. 108
Friday | Jan. 31 Scholar-in-Residence Shabbaton. Rabbi Naftali Citron of the Carlebach Shul. Shabbaton topics include Prayer in the Talmud, Kabbalah and Chassidut, Mitzvot as Tools for Better Living, and The Top Ten Teachings of the Zohar. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. 4:45 p.m. - Mincha and Kabbalat Shabbat; 6:00 p.m. – dinner by Divine Providence Catering. $18 - adult, $10 - child under 12, $60 - family. 621-9393 or officebethsholom@yahoo. com הey! It’s a relationship. Shabbat Dinner for Jewish Young Professionals. Jerusalem’s Rabbi Yakob Marcus speaking about the mystical letter Hey ( )הand relationships. Providence Hebrew Day School, Korn Auditorium, 450 Elmgrove Ave, Providence. 6:15 p.m. $15. 6323165 or nkarp@projectshoresh.com projectshoresh.com Economic Hardships in the Jewish Community. Fran Chertok, primary researcher of the recent study by the Steinhardt Social Research Institute of Brandeis University, leads the discus-
sion at Friday night services. Congregation Agudas Achim, 901 North Main St., Attleboro, MA. 7:30 p.m. 508-2222243
Saturday | Feb. 1 Beth Sholom Shabbaton Continues. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. 9:00 a.m. – Services with sermon by Rabbi Citron, followed by kiddush; 4:30 p.m. - Afternoon services and Seudah Shlishit/Talk. 6219393 or officebethsholom@yahoo.com Family First Shabbat Morning Service. Educational, interactive and entertaining service led by Rabbi Elan Babchuck intended for families of all ages; followed by lunch. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. 10:30 a.m. Rabbi Babchuck at ebabchuck@teprov.org K’Tantan Pajama Havdalah. Shabbat experience for young families. Open to temple and non-temple families. Family Shabbat dinner follows. Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. 5:30 p.m. temple-beth-el.org/ or info@templebeth-el.org or 331-6070 Adult Winter Bash. Musical entertainment by Briskets and Gravy. Dessert and drinks. Congregation Agudas Achim, 901 North Main St., Attleboro, MA. 7 – 10 p.m. $20. Bruce Ganek at bganek@ gmail.com or office@agudasma.org or agudasma.org
Sunday | Feb. 2 PJ Library Story Hour. Story and craft to celebrate Jewish holidays and traditions for youngsters aged 2-7. Congregation Beth David, 102 Kingstown Rd, Narragansett. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Stephanie at sjmalinow@gmail.com Shireinu Concert. The chorus of Temple Sinai performs for the Sinai Seniors. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. 1:30 p.m. Dottie at 942-8350 Brown RISD Hillel Jewish Film Festival Opening Night. Festival’s first night focuses on gender and sexual identity in Judaism, with screenings of two shorts “Shabbat Dinner” and “Willingly,” and includes a discussion with one of the directors. Wilson Hall (Brown University Main Green), 90 George St., Providence. 7:00 p.m. jewishfilmfestival@brownrisdhillel.org or Hillel at 863-2805
Monday | Feb 3
The Hadassah Book Club Hosts Dara Horn. Horn is the author of newly released novel “A Guide for the Perplexed.” Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. 7:00 p.m. Roberta Schneider at 369-0045 calendar | 9
Calendar Submissions Feb. 14 issue SENIORS – must be received by Feb. 5. Feb. 28 issue, PETS/CAMPING – must be received by Feb. 19. March 14 issue, PASSOVER PLANNING – must be received by March 5.
Send all calendar items to editor@jewishallianceri.org with the subject line “CALENDAR.”
A gap year in Israel for two Rhode Islanders Two Rhode Islanders are among a group of more than a hundred participating in USY’s Nativ College Leadership Program in Israel (a gap year program). Here, during a break between semesters, Daniel Katz
(far left) and Gabrielle Warshay (second from the right) are pictured as they voluntarily clean up the zoo in Haifa and care for sick animals. For more information about programs for teens and
twenty-somethings in Israel, contact Elanah Chassen, Education & Planning Associate for the Jewish Alliance at 421-4111, ext. 140 or echassen@jewishallianceri.org.
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from page 8
calendar | COMMUNITY
CALENDAR
Brown RISD Hillel Jewish Film Festival. “Footnote,” winner for Best Screenplay at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and contender for the 2012 foreign language Academy Award, explores the complicated relationship and rivalry between a man and his father. Perry and Marty Granoff Center for the Creative Arts, 154 Angell St., Providence. 7:00 p.m. jewishfilmfestival@brownrisdhillel.org or Hillel at 863-2805
Tuesday | Feb. 4 “Life In Stills” in Newport. Newport Public Library, 300 Spring St., Newport. 7:00 p.m. Erin Moseley at emoseley@ jewishallianceri.org Brown RISD Hillel Jewish Film Festival. “Arranged” follows the friendship between an Orthodox Jewish woman and a Muslim woman who are being pushed into arranged marriages. Perry and Marty Granoff Center for the Creative Arts, 154 Angell St., Providence. 7:00 p.m. jewishfilmfestival@brownrisdhillel.org or Hillel at 863-2805
Wednesday | Feb. 5 Cranston Seniors Guild. Entertainment by musician Steve Burke, followed by raffle and refreshments. Phyllis Siperstein Tamarisk Assisted Living, 3 Shalom Dr., Warwick. 1:00 p.m. Film Screening and Gallery Opening Reception at Dwares JCC. “Life in Stills,” winner of Israel’s 2012 Ophir Award, returns for a special encore presentation. gallery (401) hosts opening reception for “Your Fortunate Eyes,” an exhibit of photographs from 1930s-’50s by Rudi Weissenstein. Ben Peter, grandson of the late photographer introduces the film and answers questions after the screening. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Erin Moseley at emoseley@jewishallianceri.org Brown RISD Hillel Jewish Film Festival. “Live & Become” is the story of an Ethiopian boy who grew up with a French-Jewish family in Israel. Wilson Hall (Brown University Main Green), 90 George St., Providence. 7:00 p.m. jewishfilmfestival@brownrisdhillel.org or Hillel at 863-2805
Thursday | Feb. 6 Am David Lunch & Learn. Join Rabbi Perlman for a kosher deli lunch and discussion of the weekly Torah portion. Temple Am David, 40 Gardiner Street, Warwick. Noon. $10. 463-7944 or Rabbiperlman@cox.net “Life In Stills” in Falmouth. Falmouth Jewish Congregation, 7 Hatchville Road, Falmouth, MA. 7 p.m. Erin Moseley at emoseley@jewishallianceri.org
Friday | Feb. 7 Shabbat Chai Shabbat Alive. Lively singing, musicians and a warm welcome for Shabbat, followed by dinner. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. 5:45 p.m. teprov.org/shabbat_alive or bjmayer@teprov.org
Saturday | Feb. 8 Scout Shabbat Havdalah Service. Led by Camp Yawgoog’s Rabbi Goodman for all Jewish Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, leaders and their families. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Curt Abbott at curtistabbott@gmail.com
Sunday | Feb. 9
Black-Jewish Relations: Why Should We Care? Dr. Cheryl Greenberg of Trinity College looks back at the history of Black-Jewish relations in the 20th century. Temple Habonim, 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. 1:00 p.m. – light lunch; 1:30 p.m. - program. 2456536 ortemplehabonim.org or office@ templehabonim.org Temple Am David Theater Party. “Laughter on the 23rd Floor.” Ocean State Theater, Jefferson Blvd., Warwick. 2 p.m. $40. RabbiPerlman@cox.net
Tuesday | Feb. 11 T.K. Thorne: Last Chance for Justice. Thorne, retired captain of the Birmingham Police Department, speaks about the 1963 Birmingham church bombing case from the investigators’ perspective. Olney Baptist Church, 100 Olney St., Providence. 7:00 p.m. Marty Cooper at 421-4111 ext. 171 or mcooper@ jewishallianceri.org
Thursday | Feb. 13 Zimriyah. Concert of Hebrew song and dance. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. 7:00 p.m. 331-1616
Saturday | Feb. 15 Koleinu Our Voices. Shabbat morning service open to children and young adults with special needs and their families who choose to pray in an intimate and welcoming setting. Followed by kiddush lunch. Temple Emanu-El Chapel, 99 Taft Ave. Providence. 10:30 a.m. – noon. Carol Gualtieri at cgualtieri@ teprov.org or 331-1616
Wednesday | Feb 19 PJ Library Storytime. Alliance JCC Early Childhood Center @ Temple Habonim, 165 Meadow Road, Barrington. 10:30 a.m. Sara Foster at sfoster@jewishallianceri.org or 440-4376
Thursday | Feb. 20 Adoption Options Informational Meeting. Open to anyone interested in exploring adoption choices. Providence Adoption Options, 959 North Main St., Providence. 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Peg Boyle at 331-5437, ext. 331 or peg@ jfsri.org Financial Workshop: Tax Planning. Tax planning strategies led by Jay Rosenstein, CPA. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Erin Moseley at 421-4111 ext. 108 or emoseley@jewishalllianceri.org
Submit calendar items see page 8 for guidelines
January 31, 2014 |
9
Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund grows By Trine Lustig tlustig@jewishallianceri.org Last year, the Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund celebrated its 20th anniversary, raised $16,000 and grew to more than 100 members. Six new members joined the Fund, and another ten women renewed their commitment by contributing an additional $1,000 toward the goal of growing the fund and making an even greater impact. Founded by Gloria Feibish, Selma Stanzler and Janet Zurier in 1993, the WAEF was created to engage members in a more hands-on process that would support programs and services for women and girls. “It has been rewarding to see how the fund has resonated with women in the community,” said Gloria Feibish, “and how seriously the members take the selection process.” Every year, the full membership is invited to an annual meeting during which they discuss the proposals and allocate funds. Last year, the WAEF funded six compelling and changeoriented projects. One of them was the Mother’s Circle Holiday Preparation class. Mother’s Circle, created by the Jewish Outreach Institute, is a Jewish Alliance program for non-Jewish mothers who are raising Jewish children. The program, brought to Rhode Island in 2008, gives women the opportunity to explore the
“how-tos” and meaning behind raising Jewish children, empowering mothers through education, instruction, and support, and reminding them that the Jewish community champions their efforts and choices to raise Jewish children. In an evaluation letter to Kit Haspel, program coordinator, one woman wrote, “I really appreciate the huge amount of effort that went into teaching us. But it will pay off, as our family is 100% more committed to being Jewish than we were. So even though you were teaching me, the lessons affected the four of us in our family.” The Holiday Preparation class is comprised of three sessions that focus on Hanukkah, Passover and the High Holy Days. Each workshop covers the background, traditions and celebrations of the holiday, as well as sharing them with children and incorporating Jewish values and ideals into everyday life. Haspel says, “The program is designed to help parents learn to celebrate the holidays with their children and partners in a meaningful and inclusive way.” The women are eager to learn about Judaism and many end up sending their children to Hebrew School or to the Jewish Community Day School (JCDS). Another woman wrote to Haspel, “The experience has been truly life-changing. I feel as though it has been a gift to
participate in the sessions.” Another program funded by the WAEF is the Haifa Rape Crisis Center (HRCC), a group dedicated to fighting sexual violence in northern Israel. HRCC’s mission is to support survivors of sexual violence and their families, to raise awareness and to protect survivors’ rights. The WAEF helped fund a support group for victims of sexual violence that fosters exploration and resolution of the trauma and its aftermath. According to Shira Sanders, Resource Coordinator of HRCC, “The support group provides a safe, confidential environment in which women can share their experiences.” One woman who was helped by the group wrote, “I want to thank you from the depth of my heart for the space and wide heart that you give to women who have survived sexual abuse. Thank you for what I have learned, for how I have reorganized my life, for teaching me to accept and take care of myself and my spirit. For giving me the place and the tools and the direction to continue my life. Thank you for who you are. Continue in your way because there are a lot of women who need you.” TRINE LUSTIG is a senior development officer for the Alliance. Contact her at 421-4111 or tlustig@jewishallianceri.org to learn more about the WAEF.
oPinion
The Jewish voice
FroM PUBlisHer | ediTor
ari shavit’s bittersweet love letter to fans of israel
10 | January 31, 2014
By KaRa MaRZiaLi I am not a numbers girl. And I don’t pretend to be. I truly like words. They are my most “tangible asset,” which is why I write rather than compute. In the investors’ world I’d be considered an “Aunt Millie.” So unsophisticated, in fact, I don’t know a “Bo Derek” stock from a “big ugly.” But it doesn’t stop there. I am truly baffled by the fi nancial jargon that has warped our English language. When people talk about “bulls and bears” I think they are talking about sports teams and, in my mind, a “homerun” involves the Red Sox. A “godfather offer” simply reminds me of Marlon Brando. “Naked options” are intimate moments between me and my husband, while “taking a bath” would be an absolute luxury. To me “discretionary trust” is the confidence that everyone in my inner circle will be discreet and prudent. When an advisor friend recently mentioned “efficient frontier” I thought she was referring to Sacajawea.
an intelligent, creative and well-rounded woman, but the world of high fi nance is not a topic I claim to understand. At all. I nodded politely and excused myself in order to assist the host in the kitchen. I busied myself with some domestic tasks for several minutes, tidied up the counter, plated some appetizers, grabbed a tray of fancy hors d’oeuvres and ventured back out to the guests. By this time, the conversation had shifted a bit. “So, Kara, what is it you do for a living?” a university professor asked me, fi ngering a canapé. “I work for a nonprofit,” I muttered, more comfortable in my role as waitress and still embarrassed by my ignorance during the previous conversation. Animatedly, one of the lawyers approached me, “Oh, so you must know an awful lot about philanthropy!” “Well, I know that it’s a significant way to make a difference in our society,” I began. “In my job I see fi rst-hand how giving can change lives.” Unexpectedly, a gaggle of guests entered our circle, interested in what I was sharing. “I am not out
From Zionist dream to problematic reality Ari Shavit’s “My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel” is a bittersweet love letter addressed to all those who want to see Israel succeed as a democratic Jewish state. The subtitle suggests why bitter (“Tragedy”) and why (“TriIT SEEMS sweet umph”). TO ME Shavit, born in Rehovot in 1956, is a rerABBI JIm colroSENBErG spected umnist for Haaretz and a popular commentator on Israeli public television. He has taken well over 400 pages to offer an exhaustive account of the slow transformation of the Zionist dream into a richly complex but problematic reality. His book is wise, nuanced, and honest; the author is not afraid to focus upon the heartbreaking and deeply troubling moral compromises that have accompanied the creation of the State of Israel.
“Lydda is our black box. In it lies the dark secret of Zionism.” “Turkey” is something I dress on Thanksgiving, a “haircut” is something I get every six to eight weeks in order to stay well-groomed, and “aging” is a topic we’ll save for the Seniors issue of this newspaper (Feb. 14). In all seriousness, the language of business and fi nance can seem cryptic. Lack of knowledge or inexperience can be embarrassing and a liability in today’s well-informed global environment. Several months ago, I was invited to a party attended by many highly successful individuals – among the guests were two attorneys, a physician, an entrepreneur and several scholars. The subject of the stock market came up and a conversation ensued. I was lost within minutes, my head volleying from one player to the next, trying to make sense of the mumbo jumbo. Now, I consider myself
there raising the funds. As the director of communications for the Jewish Alliance. I am raising awareness. The most effective, nurturing communication is that which inspires philanthropy and raises dollars. I spread the joy of Jewish giving, living and learning.” My audience was hanging on every word, and I held court. This was a topic I felt comfortable discussing. It still involved money and finance, but – more importantly – it was about compassion. The subject of tzedakah came up and a philosophical dialogue about charity followed. In the end, each of us concluded that our time, treasure and talents all benefited society and advanced our community in a profound way. The “bottom line” (to coin a fi nancial phase) is: It’s not just the cash in one’s pocket but the generosity in one’s heart.
oUr Mission The mission of The Jewish Voice is to communicate Jewish news, ideas and ideals by connecting and giving voice to the diverse views of the Jewish community in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, while adhering to Jewish values and the professional standards of journalism.
Shavit begins his story with his great-grandfather, The Right Honorable Herbert Bentwich, who visited Israel as a devoted Zionist in April of 1897. In his very fi rst chapter, Shavit sounds a theme that becomes a leitmotif throughout the book: the Zionists’ failure to see the Arabs in Palestine and their concurrent failure to see what massive Jewish immigration into the land would mean for the Arab natives. Shavit puts it this way: “There are more than half a million Arabs, Bedouins, and Druze in Palestine in 1897. There are twenty cities and towns, and hundreds of villages. So how can the pedantic Bentwich not notice them? ... That there is another people now occupying the land of his ancestors?” A few paragraphs later: “My great-grandfather
does not see because he is motivated by the need not to see, because if he does see, he will have to turn back.” In chapter five, “Lydda, 1948,” which appeared in somewhat different form in the Oct. 21, 2013, issue of “The New Yorker,” Shavit spells out the dark consequences of Zionism’s 50-year blindness to the native Palestinian Arab population. His focus is the small Arab city of Lydda, located a short distance from what is now Ben Gurion International Airport, population 19,000 at the outbreak of the 1948 War of Independence. In describing how the Israeli army destroyed Lydda and forced its population into a long column of the dispossessed stumbling eastward, Shavit makes vivid the tragedy of competing nationalisms, the inevitable confl ict arising from two peoples claiming the same land at the same time: “Lydda is our black box. In it lies the dark secret of Zionism. The truth is that Zionism could not bear Lydda. From the very beginning there was a substantial contradiction between Zionism and Lydda. If Zionism was to be, Lydda could not be. If Lydda was to be, Zionism could not be … if a Jewish state was to exist in Palestine, an Arab Lydda could not exist at its center.” Towards the end of chapter five, Shavit comments bluntly regarding the Israeli soldiers who conquered Lydda, “They did the dirty, fi lthy work that enables my people, myself, my daughters, my sons to live.” In “My Promised Land,” Shavit writes perceptively about a whole host of subjects that are beyond the purview of a single column: among these topics, the establishment of kibbutz Ein Harod in the Galilee in 1921, the central place of Masada in Israeli consciousness, the absorption of Holocaust survivors, the building of the “bomb” in Dimona, the peace process, “the Oriental-traditionalist revolt against the secular-Ashkenazi state that Zionism had founded.” Shavit even includes an insightful – perhaps inciteful! – chapter which he titles “Sex, Drugs, and the Israeli Condition.” “My Promised Land,” if not totally pessimistic, is an ex-
ceedingly sobering book. Shavit acknowledges that Israelis face concentric circles of external threat: Palestinians, the Arab nations and the Islamic world at large – most of whom would be happy to see Israel disappear. In addition, Israelis are threatened by the enemy within: a diminished mental and moral toughness, which could lead to a failure of will and a collapse of national identity. Nevertheless, Shavit remains hopeful, almost defi antly optimistic, for he is convinced that Israelis themselves are Israel’s greatest asset. He describes Israeli identity as a creative paradoxical powerhouse: “… Israelness is an iridescent kaleidoscope of broken identities that come together to form a unique human phenomenon.” It is easy to fi nd writers who are highly critical of Israel, and it is equally easy to dismiss them for their criticisms are all too often one-sided, selfrighteously rigid and altogether incapable of entertaining the notion that Israel’s tragic situation may, on occasion, require morally ambiguous actions; at worst, such critics are affl icted with more than a tinge of hatred for the State of Israel. Ari Shavit cannot be dismissed. His love for the land of Israel and its citizens shines through on every page of “My Promised Land,” even as, on every page, he offers a stinging criticism of the people he loves. His criticisms then, to use the language of the ancient rabbis, amount to yesurin shel ahavah, chastisements of love. While Shavit points out in painful detail Zionist failures of political, practical, and moral judgment, he also shines a light upon Zionism’s many triumphs. Indeed, from Shavit’s perspective, Zionism has done nothing less than give life back to a dying Jewish people. His intent is to engage his readers in the enormous project of recreating a democratic Jewish state worthy of its early promise. JaMes B. RoseNBeRg is rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim in Barrington and can be reached at rabbiemeritus@ templehabonim.org.
ColUMns | leTTers PoliCY The Jewish Voice publishes thoughtful and informative contributors’ columns (op-eds of 500 – 800 words) and letters to the editor (250 words, maximum) on issues of interest to our Jewish community. At our discretion, we may edit pieces for publication or refuse publication. Letters and columns, whether from our regular contributors or from guest columnists, repre-
sent the views of the authors; they do not represent the views of The Jewish Voice or the Alliance. Send letters and op-eds to The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906 or editor@ jewishallianceri.org. Include name, city of residence and a contact phone number or email (not for publication).
opinion
thejewishvoice.org
January 31, 2014 |
11
Ariel Sharon made me feel safe Staying in Israel in the midst of chaos
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper
Notable & Quotable From Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s speech to the Israeli Knesset in Jerusalem Jan. 20: Israel is the only country in the Middle East which has long anchored itself in the ideals of freedom, democracy and the rule of law. And these are not mere notions. They are the things that, over time and against all odds, have proven to be over and over again the only ground in which human rights, political stability, and economic prosperity may flourish. These values are not proprietary. They do not belong to one people or one nation. Nor are they a finite resource. On the contrary, the wider they are spread, the stronger they grow. Likewise, when they are threatened anywhere, they are threatened everywhere. And who threatens them, or more precisely, what today threatens the societies that embrace such values and the progress they nurture? Those who scorn modernity, those who loathe the liberty of others, and those who hold the differences of peoples and cultures and religions in contempt. Those who often begin by hating the Jews. But, history shows us, [they] end up hating anyone who is not like them. Those forces, which have threatened the State of Israel every single day of its existence and which, as 9-11 graphically showed us today, threaten all of us. And so, we either stand up for our values and our interests here in Israel, stand up for the existence of a free, democratic and distinctively Jewish state, or the retreat of our values and our interests in the world will begin.
In September 2000, prior to starting college, I studied at Yeshivat Hamivtar. Within weeks of my return for my second and final year of study there, it became abundantly clear that my second year would be quite different from my first. That was the year that the Second Intifada broke out. Clashes between Israelis and Arabs escalated, and terrorist attacks that targeted Israeli civilians occurred on an almost daily basis. Studying at Yeshivat LETTERS Hamivtar, situated just HOME outside of Efrat in the Gush Etzion region, I felt the tension as much as DANIEL anyone else. I rode bulSTIEGLITZ letproof buses to get from Efrat to Jerusalem since terrorists fired on any motorist that they could set their sights on. I attended funerals for residents of the area – civilians who were shot and killed on that same road while simply driving in their cars. I also attended the funeral of Koby Mandell, a young boy who, along with his friend Yosef Ishran, was murdered by Arab neighbors. The boys were so badly beaten by rocks that their dental records were needed to identify their bodies. I was incapable of imagining how a human being could display such viciousness towards an animal, much less two young boys. Amidst all of this, it would have been easy for me to get on a plane and return to the United States. I could have run away from Israel, which is the country most Jews would run towards if they ever felt that their very existence was threatened. Six million Jews may have been spared
from the Holocaust if the State of Israel had been established just a few years earlier. For me, leaving Israel was not an option. Not only did I feel that actually witnessing a terrorist attack with my own two eyes was almost comparable to being struck by lightning (wrong place, wrong split-second), but I never would have been able to look at myself in the mirror again. People shamelessly run away from worthwhile causes all of the time. I stayed because I believed in the country in which I lived. In February 2001, Ariel Sharon was elected Prime Minister of Israel. Sharon epitomized the country’s warrior past as he sought to become the architect of a peaceful future. He was a soldier, a defense minister and a prime minister and commanded forces in every one of Israel’s military conflicts since the 1948 War of Independence. As Prime Minister, he began taking de-
“I believed in the country in which I lived.” cisive action against the terrorists who put Israel in a state of chaos on a regular basis. While the changes were not instantaneous (the murders of Koby Mandell and Yosef Ishram took place after Sharon was elected), for the first time in months, I felt safer. Every country has the right to defend itself, especially when its civilian population is under daily attack. Some argue that Sharon began the Second Intifada simply by visiting the Temple Mount, a place that is holy for both Jews and Muslims. Despite the fact that the Temple Mount is inside of Israel, Muslims can worship freely there while Jews can-
not. Saying that Sharon’s visit to a holy site was justification for riots and suicide attacks is naïve. At most, it was a straw that broke an already fragile camel’s back. Despite a formidable military career and firm action during the Second Intifada that made Israel safer, Sharon’s career was not without its mistakes. The 1982 Lebanon War, during which Sharon served as Defense Minister, was considered a grievous miscalculation on his part. In 2005, Sharon orchestrated the withdrawal of more than 8,500 residents of the Gush Katif area in the Southern Gaza Strip. Not only were the lives of these residents thrown into chaos, but the withdrawal led to a beyond-drastic increase in terrorist rocket fire from Gaza into Israel, the most recent of which took place the day before I wrote this article – the day of Sharon’s funeral. While the world has already forgotten about this still-recent withdrawal, it serves as proof that the “land for peace” model with the Arabs does not work. Sharon made mistakes, ones I have been affected by indirectly. I have not suffered injury or loss of property as a result of these mistakes. It’s not my place to forgive Ariel Sharon for the 1982 Lebanon War and the withdrawal from Gush Katif. All I can say is that, during a year that was one of the most positive and influential in my life, Ariel Sharon made me feel safe. Daniel Stieglitz (dstieglitz@gmail. com), a Providence native, made aliyah in 2007. He holds a master’s degree in creative writing from Bar Ilan University and lives and works in Israel. His short story “Haven” was recently published in FictionMagazines.com’s online magazine, eFiction.
Time to get serious about cybersecurity By Paul Goldenberg NEW YORK (JTA) — The growing risks posed by homegrown terrorism, the rise of European ultranationalist fervor and anti-Israel boycotts, coupled with the likelihood that Mideast tensions may intensify, has given rise to a distinct and unfamiliar threat directly impacting homeland and Jewish communal security. Groups or individuals wishing to cause harm to Jewish institutions no longer require physical access. A criminal, hacker or terrorist-related group from the other side of the globe can breach an agency or synagogue computer network and silently gather its most vital information. Hackers and computer criminals now have the capacity to make digital copies of information that once filled floors of locked filing cabinets under the careful watch of staff and volunteers. Most troubling is that a theft of this nature can go undetected for years, if not indefinitely. As we witnessed during the holiday season, governments,
retail establishments, corporations and nonprofit organizations large and small have been the targets of cyberattacks aimed at defacing websites, disrupting networks, stealing information and damaging systems. Earlier this month, several French Jewish communal websites were defaced by sympathizers of the anti-Semitic French comedian Dieudonne, a controversial figure known for his Holocaust denial and admiration for gas chambers. Many Jewish community institutions maintain some of their most valuable assets in digital form, including the home addresses of their employees, monetary transfers, donor information and other sensitive data. The dangers are further enhanced when one considers our growing reliance on digital networks, Web-based technology and the explosion of smartphones. This massive dependence on technology provides a perfect platform for those who seek to harm Jewish interests. What’s more, an institution’s private information is threatened with
every download, every click on an Internet link and every opened email. Not one year ago, a server that hosts approximately 50 Jewish congregational websites was attacked by a politically motivated hacker group called the Moroccan Ghosts. The group plastered the targeted websites with their logo and an hourlong video denying the Holocaust. According to cyber experts, it was part of a larger trend of hackings targeting the websites of groups thought to be supporting Israel. The incident provides just a glimpse into the damage that can result from breaches to an institution’s cybersecurity. Of highest concern is when personal information such as the names, home addresses and schools attended by the children of Jewish leaders and staff become open source posts on anti-Semitic and Islamic extremist websites. “Cyber threats to Jewish organizations pose significant security risks to their operations and include everything from surveillance and intelligence collection on leaders and
members to accessing systems that can disrupt operations or be exploited for conducting a physical attack,” says Mitch Scherr, CEO of the data security firm Encryptics. “The fact that critical information is being transmitted between offices and across the Internet is all the more reason that it must be protected while in transit and at rest.” Due to the evolving nature of this risk, the question of who is responsible for addressing cybersecurity concerns is somewhat vague. The fiduciary duty of administrators and directors without a doubt extends to the protection of significant digital assets. What, then, are their specific responsibilities when it comes to cybersecurity? Can an administration or organizations leadership simply rely upon its IT department to address cybersecurity needs, particularly when many are ill equipped to identify, respond to and mitigate such threats? Leaders of Jewish organizations large and small have cybersecurity | 25
12 | January 31, 2014
community
The Jewish Voice
Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. By Marty Cooper mcooper@jewishallianceri.org The 50th anniversary of the War on Poverty, nonviolence and economic inequality were the repeated themes during this year’s celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. A number of programs and events during the week echoed the call for civil rights for everyone. On Sunday, January 19, the Rhode Island Civil Rights Roundtable sponsored a panel discussion on civil rights. An estimated crowd of more than 100 people at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Providence was asked: Are the civil rights of Americans today significantly better than they were 50 years ago when the civil rights movement forced the end to segregation? There was some mixed reaction to the question. While major changes were positively made, there still is significant discrimination, prejudice and bias. The Rev. Linda Watkins, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Pawtucket, was the moderator for a panel discussion that looked at some of the civil rights issues facing us today. The panel included: Representative Joseph Almeida, who serves on the Rhode Island Black and Latino Caucus, Michael Aarugo, from the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Union, Local 23, Hillary Davis, a policy associate of the CRI ACLU, Nick Figueroa, former chair, and Eugene Monteiro, current chair of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Racial Profiling. Representative Almeida said that minorities must get the work they are entitled to re-
ceive by law. Too many jobs that are supposed to be filled by minorities simply do not go to them. He spoke of the need for legislation against racial profiling to get passed this year, a fight that goes back to 1999. He was also concerned about the need for immigration reform and the importance of giving people with a prison record a path to getting jobs. Michael Aarugo spoke of wage inequity and the need to increase the minimum wage. Aaugo said that too many people and families are not making a living wage. He reminded the audience that the March on Washington was called The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. During the 1950s and ‘60s, there was a racial and economic inequity. This has not changed. Aarugo said the labor struggle is a civil rights issue. Fifty years ago, unions represented 37 percent of the jobs. Today, that number is seven percent. People forget that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. recognized the need for unions in our country. He went to Tennessee to fight for the Garbage Workers union when he was assassinated. Hillary Davis of the Rhode Island ACLU stated that our schools are becoming a pipeline to prisons, especially for minorities. Suspensions have become normalized. Many of the students, including first graders, are often taken away in handcuffs for simply having a bad day. Believe it or not, more than 70 first graders were suspended from school in 2012. Nick Figueroa and Eugene Monteiro spoke of their concern for racial bias and profiling in our state. They cited that
minorities are four times more likely to get pulled over for a traffic stop. What can be done to eradicate this problem? Attend the racial profile hearings that will be held at the statehouse this year. The presence of people against the practice of profiling will help get the bill passed. The Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Breakfast, organized by the Ministers Alliance, was the place to be on the morning of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A cadre of community leaders, from politicians to clergy, corporate sponsors, and social justice leaders, attended the program. Rev. Dr. Donald Anderson of the RI State Council of Church-
ment to the students receiving the scholarships to reach a pathway of success. “Dream,” said Vaughan, “and then go after your dreams.” He voiced a concern that there was a lack of knowledge and confidence gap in our country today. However, we have in our DNA the solutions to succeed. We only need to apply it. The program included remarks from Senator Jack Reed, Congressman David Cicilline, Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts, Mayor Angel Taveras, Mayor Allan Fung and the president of The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Jim Vincent. One of the scholarship recipients was a 62-year-old gentleman who re-
was time we held the candidates accountable, and that the forum was a beginning to that. The Governor’s Forum included Democrats, General Treasurer Gina M. Raimondo, Providence Mayor Angel Taveras and Todd Giroux, of Bristol. Mayor Allan Fung and Ken Block did not participate. The Providence Mayor’s Forum included Brett Smiley, Lorne A. Adrain, City Council President Michael Solomon, Jorge O. Elorza and Christopher Young. Candidates for mayor were asked different questions than the candidates for governor. The program was co-sponsored by PeaceRI. The day’s events concluded with the 27th Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
es opened the program with the invocation. His talk included comments about the 50th Anniversary War on Poverty. The focus this year was on education. Dr. Sammy Vaughan, president of the Alliance and pastor of St. James Baptist Church in Woonsocket, had the honor of introducing his son, Michael Vaughan, as the keynote speaker, a senior assistant dean at the University of Delaware, College of Engineering. He offered words of encourage-
turned to school at CCRI. Perhaps the most exciting program was held at the Institute for the Study and Practice of Nonviolence. An educational forum with candidates for Governor and the Mayor of Providence to discuss their RI vision for non-violence.” A standingroom-only crowd wanted to hear what the candidates had to say about the violence in the state. Teny Gross, executive director of the Institute, welcomed everyone and said that it
at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Providence, presented by the State Holiday Commission. The Rev. Carl Balark, Pastor of the Church, provided the invocation to this special event. NAACP president, Jim Vincent, received the “Living the Dream Award” for his outstanding community involvement. James (Jimmy) Winters, a retired Newport policemen, received the “Community Service Award” for his dedication to helping the homeless and the hungry. Cliff Monteiro, the former NAACP of Providence president, received a “Special Recognition Award” for his contributions over the years. Monteiro, a retired policeman, was on the civil rights ground floor, having marched with Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma, along with now Congressman John Lewis. Speakers of the program included Senator Jack Reed, Congressman David Cicilline, Governor Lincoln Chafee, General Treasurer Gina Riamondo and State Senator Harold Metts. Marty Cooper is the Community Relations Director at the Jewish Alliance.
COMMUNITY
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from page 1
town hall
Another 18 percent live near poverty and 30 percent fall into the “economically vulnerable” category. This means that half of the Jewish households in communities served by the Alliance are financially fragile. “This was a really important study, and we needed to understand it’s not just about poverty, but economic insecurity,” said Chertok, pointing out that state and federal programs provide
However, after they add up expenses pertaining to their Jewish lives – synagogue membership, religious school, summer camp or Kosher dining – they are in trouble. The issue is, as Chertok says, “Jewish living is a luxury. It’s not something most families can afford, and that is really a problem.” Interestingly, households seeking congregational assistance often make requests for
ing help, creating a one-stop portal for accessing information and assistance, identifying resources for those on the margins, brokering job search services, establishing a chevre fund [see the JBoost article on page 19] and founding a forecast committee. Afterward, attendees – professionals from partner agencies, lay leaders and rabbis – added to the conversation. Many were shocked at the findings. One audience member asked if the
resources. “There will be no duplication of services,” assured Savit. “The recommendations will buttress our existing social services. We have been speaking to everyone about this.” Susan Adler from the Kosher Food Pantry confirmed the dialogue between agencies and added, “I should be bombarded. Call us. If you need food, we deliver.” Another attendee asked, “How as a community can we truly educate our community?”
“It’s not just about poverty, but economic insecurity.”
The chart above illustrates recommendations generated from the “Living on the Edge” study. for those who fall below government-defined criteria but not for those who live “on the edge.” “But aren’t Jews different?” asked Parmer. Answering, he clarified, “Yes and no. Overall, American Jews are more educated and attain higher occupational levels; however, the gap in education and employment is narrowing, and there is little difference in the midrange of income when we compare Jews to other white non-Hispanics in the same communities. We’re comparing neighbors to neighbors.” With fixed incomes, few employment opportunities and the rising cost of living, many Jewish Rhode Islanders find themselves caught in the clutches of economic vulnerability. Jewish life, including synagogue membership, can be financially difficult for median household incomes, and families have to “stretch every dollar” to meet their basic expenses. “Even modest, unexpected household expenses or loss of hours at work can catapult a household into debt or delinquency,” said Chertok. “It became apparent to us that folks were living in economic insecurity and anything could set them over the edge.” Readers might be surprised to learn that these are the people who do not look like a typical poor person. Chertok expounded, “They look good on paper; they own homes or rent; they drive cars, they have jobs.”
$100 or less – enough to tide them over until the next paycheck. Congregation Beth Sholom’s Rabbi Barry Dolinger put it this way: “For me, the Brandeis study confirmed in data what I’ve experienced to be true since my arrival here in Rhode Island. Few are truly destitute, but so many are right on the brink of poverty. Judaism stresses compassion for those in need as perhaps the most important expression of authentic religious experience.” Poverty and economic insecurity, of course, are not uniquely Jewish problems. However, the Alliance’s approach embodies Jewish values and traditions, such as preserving the dignity and communal engagement of those in need. “If half of our families are at risk for economic hardship,” Chertok advises, “the Jewish community needs to be in the business of prevention.” Since the release of the Brandeis study, the Alliance continues to fund programs and services that support those living “on the edge,” and to create new solutions that address the issue of economic insecurity in Rhode Island. Judging by the ideas generated by the study, the Alliance is “on the edge” of something revolutionary. Chertok and Palmer concluded their presentation with innovative recommendations for the Rhode Island Jewish community. They included teaching the Torah of giving and receiv-
new initiatives would duplicate existing social services and if all the agencies were on board with the implementation of new
“Many people feel ashamed,” remarked Savit. “The point is not to be stigmatized,” he elaborated. “The challenge we have,” said Erin Minor of Jewish Family Service, “is that some people come to us because we are a Jewish agency and some people will not come to us because we are a Jewish agency.” “That is why teaching the Torah of giving and receiving is so important,” Chertok concluded. “What do we need to do?” chimed Mark Ladin, a retired school principal. “Of your recommendations, what are the three most important?” “One: provide social service safety nets,” Savit began. “Two: promote self-sufficiency and vocational training. And three: remove barriers to Jewish living
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so that everyone has access to Jewish life.” As the discussion continued, some members asked how they could participate in the endeavor. Savit challenged the town hall attendees to be more than just spectators. “We’re out there, raising funds [The Alliance has already secured $1.1 million of its $1.8 million goal.], but we also need volunteers. We’re looking for 125 individuals to donate their time – running errands, providing dental care, pro bono legal services, reading to children, etc.” One community member was quick to remark, “You contact me, and I’ll get people to recruit!” Volunteers are asked to contact Wendy Joering, Community Concierge at (401) 421-4111, ext. 169. Savit’s final message to the crowd was that the Alliance is truly advocating for system change. “We have been investing in this [issue] for years and have partnered – and are proud to partner – with all agencies. I am grateful to so many of our colleagues here – from the rabbinical community to our partner agencies, to my Alliance colleagues. This is a community cooperative – a real kibbutz – and, yes, it takes a village.” NOTE: Fern Chertok will also be speaking at Congregation Agudas Achim in Attleboro, MA, on Friday, January 31, at 7:30 p.m. Kara Marziali is the director of communications at the Jewish Alliance.
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Food | CoMMUniTY
The Jewish voice
raising dough By KaRa MaRZiaLi kmarziali@jewishallianceri.org
Elegant & edible delight
TEMPlE SINAI
The Celebrations Expo at Temple Sinai in Cranston was held on Sunday, Jan. 26, and showcased everything you need to plan your Bar/Bat Mitzvah or any other celebrations. All were gathered under one roof where food could be sampled, entertainers interviewed and so much more, to the delight of the many who attended.
The 3rd annual TigerShark’s spaghetti dinner
JESSICA SHERwOOD
Coach Brad T., Captain Joey G. and Captain Abigail S. serve guests pasta, lasagna, salad and more at the annual TigerSharks Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser, where more than 120 guests came to support the team. The TigerSharks wish to thank everyone for the support and for giving them the motivation to help them finish their season on a strong stroke. Their last two meets are at home on February 9 and 23. Go TigerSharks!
Elizabeth Ü, founder and executive director of Finance for Food, believes that food-based businesses can solve our social and environmental problems. However, most food entrepreneurs say lack of access to capital prevents them from launching or growing their ventures. In her book, “Raising Dough: The Complete Guide to Financing a Socially Responsible Food Business,” Ü has written an unprecedented guide to the financing options available to support sustainable food businesses. Originally published by Chelsea Green Publishing in June 2013, it is now available through a variety of channels. “I was frustrated that no good resource existed that outlined the capital options available for food businesses — including pros, cons, criteria, and sources — and so I decided to write the book myself!” said Ü. “Raising Dough” offers insights into the world of fi nance for entrepreneurs. It includes descriptions of the various capital options available such as traditional debt and equity, government grant and loan programs and crowd-funding. It also gives the reader recommendations for choosing which capital options are the most appropriate given the size, stage, entity type, growth plans, mission and values of an enterprise; testimonials highlighting the experiences of food system entrepreneurs who have been there before (including both success stories and cautionary tales) and referrals to sources of capital, fi nanciers, investor networks and other fi nancial resources. Ü likens food-based businesses to a farmer’s market – the entrepreneurs in search of funds to fi nance their ventures are the customers, those providing capital are the vendors, and the various fi nancial tools are the
fruits and vegetables available for sale. “Just like at a farmer’s market, customers shop with a variety of needs in mind, and each vendor offers a unique combination of wares … and many of the differences are invisible.” Ü reminds the reader that one cannot answer the question “which type of apple is best?” until there’s a plan in place. “Once you have fi nally identified the ‘right’ fi nancial tools, it’s entirely possible that you won’t be able to fi nd a capital provider or investor that is willing to accept your terms, or the fi nancing option you like best may not be legal in your situation … much the same way that certain apple varieties are not always in season, or might not grow locally.”
CHElSEA GREEN PU
BlISHING
Although “Raising Dough” was written primarily for those managing values-based food businesses, social entrepreneurs and investors in any market sector will fi nd value in the tools and resources in this book. KaRa MaRZiaLi is the director of communications at the Jewish Alliance.
saving at the grocery store In today’s unpredictable economy, it’s never been more important to watch every dollar. • Review your last grocery bill. Did you really need to buy the latest issue of People magazine? • check the circulars. It may not be productive to drive all over town to find the cheapest bananas (unless you really love bananas!). Review the weekly store circulars and determine what is worth buying on sale. • Make a list and stick to it. After you’ve browsed the circulars, make a list and commit to it. There’s no savings if you planned on buying $50 worth of meat, fish and poultry and wound up spending an additional $15 on junk food.
stock up. Even if you don’t need a non-perishable item, but it’s a product you use regularly and it’s on sale, buy it. • comparison shop. Brand loyalty isn’t always a good thing. Certain private- or generic-label items are as good as the brand name, and you’ll end up paying a lot less. • pay attention to the unit price. This is the amount you are paying per weight or piece. It may be worthwhile to spend $1.99 on the 32 ounce bag and freeze what you don’t use. plan your menu each week. This, in addition to sticking to the list, will help you save money and cut down on impulse spending.
FOOD
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Financiers By Patricia Wells The little rectangular almond cakes known as financiers are sold in many of the best pastry shops in Paris. Perfect financiers are about as addictive as chocolate. The finest have a firm, crusty exterior and a moist, almondy interior, tasting almost as if they were filled with almond paste. Next to the classic madeleine, the financier is probably the most popular little French cake. It was created by pâtissier Lasne, who had a pastry shop near the Paris stock exchange in the late 19th century. An entrepreneurial man, he modernized a pastry recipe from the middle ages, inventing a small, tidy pastry resembling a bar of gold. His rich banking clientele could eat the pastry on the run, dirtying neither their hands nor their suits. Financier, of course, means “banker” in French. The secret to a good financier is in the use of top-quality ingredients, as well as in the baking: For a good crust, it must begin in a hot oven. The temperature is then reduced, keeping the interior nice and moist.
Equipment
16 individual 2- by 4-inch tin financier molds or muffin tins.
Ingredients
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled 1 ½ cups almond meal 1⅔ cups confectioners’ sugar
Almond Cakes
½ cup unbleached all-purpose flour ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt ¾ cup large egg whites (the whites from 5 to 6 large eggs), preferably organic and freerange
Method
1. Center a rack in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 2. With a pastry brush, thoroughly butter the financier molds, using some of the melted and cooled butter. Arrange the molds side by side but not touching on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet with the molds in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to solidify the butter. This will help the financiers to unmold easily. 3. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond meal, sugar, flour and salt. Whisk in the egg whites a little at a time just until thoroughly blended. Gently whisk in the butter until thoroughly blended. The mixture will be fairly thin. 4. Pour or spoon the batter into the molds, filling them almost to the rim. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake until the financiers are pale gold and begin to firm up, about 7 minutes. Reduce the heat to 400°F and bake 7 minutes more. Turn off the oven, keeping
Pauline Prideaux
the door closed. Leave the financiers sitting in the warm oven for 7 minutes. 5. Remove the financiers from the oven and let them cool in the molds for 10 minutes, then unmold them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Makes 16 financiers. NOTE: Almond meal (sometimes called almond flour) is made from whole, unblanched (skin on) almonds. For this recipe, whole, unblanched almonds can be finely ground in a food processor. Do not over process. R e p r i n t e d w i t h permission from “The Food Lover’s Guide to Paris” by Patricia Wells. ©1999 Workman Publishing.
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The Jewish Voice
CoMMUniTY
thejewishvoice.org
last Chance for Justice One woman’s story about the evidence uncovered in a 37-year-old murder mystery September 15, 1963, a bomb goes off. Four young girls are killed. Twenty two people are injured. The place – the 16th Street Baptist Church, in Birmingham, Alabama. The explosion that rocked the African-American church propelled the Civil Rights Movement in our country and helped lead to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The 16th Street Baptist Church incident was not new to the activism to advance civil rights. The church was a place where civil rights meetings were held regularly. Civil rights leaders including the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph David Abernathy Sr. often provided inspiration. It was a time when segregation, particularly in the South, was being challenged. In May of 1963, the City of Birmingham – a Ku Klux Klan bastion at the time – agreed to integrate public places. This angered a community which fought hard to keep it segregated. Bombings were not new to Birmingham. Neither were other violent acts against the African-American community, such as hoses and dogs turned on children and protestors and clashes between
civil rights crusaders and the violent Ku Klux Klan. The three-story church became a target. Tension escalated further when the Southern Christian Leadership Conference began to campaign to register the African-American community to vote in the city. At about 10:20 on the morning of September 15, 26 children gathered in the church’s basement when the bomb exploded. President John F. Kennedy ordered the FBI to bring justice and fi nd the bombers. After a decade, only one person was prosecuted, and found guilty of possession of 122 sticks of dynamite without a permit. It would take 37 years to uncover a cold
murder case resulting in the conviction of the Birmingham murderers. On February 11 at 7:00 p.m., T.K. Thorne, author of the book “Last Chance for Justice, How Relentless Investigators Uncovered New Evidence Convicting the Birmingham Church Bombers” will be at the Olney Baptist Church in Providence to explain how the people responsible for the bombings were tracked down and convicted. The program is sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council, the Rhode Island State Council of Churches and the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island in honor of Black History Month. foR MoRe iNfoRMatioN contact Marty Cooper, community relations director of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island at 401-421-4111, ext. 171 or mcooper@jewishallianceri.org.
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COMMUNITY
The Jewish Voice
“Your Fortunate Eyes” and “Life in Stills” See a slice of Israeli history at the Dwares JCC By Irina Missiuro imissiuro@jewishallianceri.org Last April, the Alliance JCC screened Life in Stills, a documentary by Tamar Tal that focuses on the work of the legendary Israeli photographer Rudi Weissenstein. Erin Moseley, Director of Arts & Culture and NextGen Engagement, shares that people were so moved by the film, which was screened as part of Israel@65, that they kept asking to see the accompanying exhibit, “Your Fortunate Eyes.” The Dwares JCC, together with its partner, the Jewish Federation of Cape Cod, made it happen. “Life in Stills,” the documentary that won the hearts of its viewers, as well as an Ophir Award (the Israeli Oscar), is returning to Rhode Island for an encore presentation. Ben Peter, the grandson of Rudi and Miriam Weissenstein, will introduce the film and answer questions after the screening at the three locations – Newport Public Library (Feb. 4, 7:00 p.m.), Dwares JCC (Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m.) and Falmouth Jewish Congregation (Feb. 6, 7:00 p.m.). This time, viewers will be able to witness the magic of the photos in person. The exhibit will be displayed at the Dwares JCC gallery (401) from February 5 to 28. Visitors will also have a chance to purchase the historic photos, postcards, books and posters. The documentary is set in Israel. It centers on a struggle to preserve a cultural landmark – the Pri-Or Photo House in Tel Aviv. Its humor, tone and attitudes are distinctly Israeli. And yet, “Life in Stills” depicts a universal story – a shifting relationship between a grandmother and a grandson. Throughout the time span of the filming – seven years – that particular relationship evolves tremendously. In fact, viewers might find themselves drawn not to the drama of the many conflicts, ordeals and obstacles that Miriam, Rudi’s widow, and Ben, their grandson, overcome together, but to the transformation their union undergoes during those difficulties. Tal shares that she was able to capture the dynamic of the familial relationship only after Miriam became used to the camera and allowed herself to ignore it. In addition to bringing worldwide publicity, fame and exposure for the shop, the documentary brought something much more important for its two stars – an unbreakable bond that was forged during the filming. Ben shares that he was able to connect with Miriam through their collaboration. He says, referring to their mutual struggle against the authorities, Miriam’s grad-
ual deterioration and their family history, “We shared a lot of experiences that got us even closer.” Thanks to Tal’s role of a protector, Ben reveals that he and his grandmother were able to have intimate conversations: “I completely trusted her [the director’s] sensitivity and wisdom.” Just as Rudi’s photos illustrate the transformation of a culture, Tal’s documentary depicts the change in the nature of a relationship. Possibly referencing Rudi’s “Working Hands” series (exhibited in Tel Aviv in 1963), the film opens with a shot of Miriam’s weathered hands doing what they did best – sorting the numerous negatives ensconced within their drawers. Seeing these hands, we know that they must belong to a hard worker – someone who refuses to be defeated by old age and someone who clearly cares about what she does. Upon “meeting” Miriam, we are proven right. Tal says, “Miriam was a great inspiration to me – her passion for life, work and art.” However, the documentary doesn’t sugarcoat; it exposes the woman in all her glory – “warts and all.”
“It’s extremely important to have a past.” Yes, she is dedicated (refuses to allow Ben to take a day off, claiming that it would be “running away from reality”), opinionated (hates the way the images appear online: “Her legs are crooked and where’s the head?”) and blunt (answering her grandson’s inquiry whether she likes his new apartment, “I wouldn’t live here.”). But Miriam is also extremely funny (not feeling well, she rejects an offer of water: “I was invited for lunch and he gives me water!”), sarcastic (“Are you the tax man?” to someone asking too many questions) and oblivious (incredulously exclaiming, “Do they hear me?” after Ben patiently chides her for her acerbic and loud statements about the customers). In the documentary, we see Miriam in one of her roles as the boss. It is she who addresses the visitors to the shop, using her characteristic charm to ask them to sign a petition against the forced relocation of the Photo House. Miriam says, “I have a big problem. Mayor Huldai wants me to leave so he can build a six-story building, and I’m fighting to have more than 2,000 signatures by people interested in telling Mr. Huldai to retire.” It is she who proudly introduces her grandson to
courtesy photos | pri-Or photo house
the customers, “He is the coowner.” It is she who shares the story of the shop with a curious visitor – after all, she’s been at the same place for 70 years, so she must know a thing or two about it. However, Ben is aware that Miriam is so rooted in the past that she doesn’t see the necessary need to move into the future to preserve it. Because she’s not invited, she’s reluctant to allow Ben to attend an exhibition in Holland, causing him to call her “unreasonable and over-emotional.” However, when she is invited to Frankfurt to celebrate Rudi’s 100th birthday, she hesitates, saying she’s a wreck. Also, at the Photo House, she doesn’t want to offer enticements, such as classic photos, taken on the famous bench for ten shekels in honor of Tel Aviv’s 100th anniversary. Complaining that the customers will never leave, Miriam prompts Ben to explain that they are the reason the shop exists. He also has to justify the importance of a website, a project about which Miriam says, “I wouldn’t waste five minutes on it.” Driving to the meeting that will ultimately seal the fate of the Photo House, Ben instructs Miriam to say that she’s worked for Tel Aviv her whole life and the city should respect that. Not as diplomatic, Miriam utters later, “I have to listen to them? I should jump out the window!” Recognizing that educating his stubborn grandmother on communication is useless, Ben answers her question, “What should we do?” with a suggestion to buy Miriam a hearing aid and take her to an eye doctor. As the film progresses, we witness Ben’s evolution from
Miriam’s grandson into her parent. We see him encouraging her to make a funny face to lighten the mood, putting drops into her eyes, pushing her wheelchair the way a parent would push a stroller, and calling her on her own shtick. When Miriam is being especially difficult, Ben reminds her that she’s always referring to herself as an old rag. He says, “I remember, but do you remember?” While Miriam aggravates and baffles Ben, she also provides a gateway to the stories that he longs to learn more about. Ben is hesitant to approach his grandmother for a talk about his family’s past; he admits to his boyfriend that he hasn’t found a way to connect with her. Ultimately, he does find it. We see the grandmother and the grandson share a bed and seal their bond during a trip to Germany. Lying side by side, they look at ease with each other. Ben says, “You calm me.” In one of the most poignant moments of the documentary, it is he who is doing the calming when they discover that Miriam’s apartment was broken into while she was away. Finally locating the negative of, arguably, the most important photo in the
Israeli history – the one Rudi took on May 14, 1948 at the official Declaration of the State of Israel – Miriam brings a smile to the viewers’ faces with a cry that the thieves broke the negatives’ box. The negatives’ scanning is still a work in progress. Ben shares with the Voice readers that the archive comprises about one million photos, and that they too can “save a piece of history” by going online (pri-or. com) and saving a photograph – a mitzvah that costs only $5. He believes that preserving the images is crucial since they capture the history of the people of Israel. Ben says, “It’s extremely important to have a past, if you want to have a future, and I think it’s those images that help us build our collective and individual identity.” He discloses that, even though this year is the last one for “Your Fortunate Eyes,” he is working on a new project that will introduce a different side of his grandfather’s work. Ben promises that, while the photos will not be as historically important, they will be fascinating and fantastic and “no less important to our understanding of the past.”
FINANCE & PHILANTHROPY
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January 31, 2014 |
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Alliance to launch new innovative approach to philanthropy By Alex Gaines againes@jewishallianceri.org The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island is excited to announce an upcoming launch for a new way to contribute to its fight against poverty and economic insecurity. Developing a crowdfunding platform is part of the response to the “Living on the Edge” study highlighting economic vulnerability in the Rhode Island Jewish community. Crowdfunding is the collective power of individuals, who network and pool their resources, to support the efforts initiated by other people or organizations. Kickstarter and its creative projects have received the most attention in the media, and it is by far the largest crowdfunder on the web. Crowdfunding websites, such as Kickstarter, are based on the belief that one can achieve a financial goal by primarily receiving and leveraging small contributions from many parties. Juxtaposed against traditional fundraising, crowdfunding aims to involve a large number of small funders – as opposed to
a few large funders – to reach a financial goal (though large donations certainly won’t be turned away). The page contains a description of the project raising funds, what fundraising target they have set as their goal, how much has been raised to date, and how much longer the project will be listed. Crowdfunding lies at the heart of an evolving fundrais-
ing landscape. New ways to support charitable causes have emerged from the widespread online and social media usage. While many large and established donors still appreciate
the personal touch of traditional fundraising methods and are uncomfortable giving a large amount without more direct involvement, a growing number of donors find the instant ability to engage with and share an interesting organization or initiative preferable to the longstanding methods of traditional nonprofit fundraising. In fact, online charitable giv-
ing for the final two months of 2013 increased by 16%, compared to the same time period the year before. This reinforces the structure of crowdfunding, which thrives without depend-
ing on mega-donors by attracting large numbers of small donations – anywhere from $5 to $50 to $500 – to support projects
“Crowdfunding lies at the heart of an evolving fundraising landscape.” on the site. As you might imagine, many of those opting to take their philanthropy to the World Wide Web are of the younger generations, especially the millennials, introduced to the adult world with a smartphone in hand and a Facebook account. Prevalent among members of this population is a desire to know exactly where their money is going. Donations are made to projects and causes they believe in more often than large institutions and organizations. The transparency of the giving process drives both young and old funders into donating to a specific initiative. Crowdfunding represents the essence of this with the open information provided about specific
projects and the engagement of its funders. All of these trends are mirrored in the world of Jewish giving. Jboost will be the Jewish Alliance’s own crowdfunding platform featuring projects aimed at fighting economic insecurities. Developed in response to the harrowing findings of the “Living on the Edge” study, the website will be part of the Alliance’s comprehensive initiative to provide relief for the economically vulnerable members of the Jewish community. The Alliance has begun collaborating with community partners in generating and developing projects that will have a direct impact on helping those who are most in need. Jboost’s mission is to draw attention to populations facing hardship and helping to provide relief with many different endeavors, so that we can strengthen our community involvement and collaboration while improving the wellbeing of our most unfortunate. ALEX GAINES is a Planning Associate at the Jewish Alliance.
20 | January 31, 2014
FINANCE & PHILANTHROPY
The Jewish Voice
Charitable giving: A transformative experience ly urgent need or a dramatic change in your own financial status, a budget will help you stay on track and make the most of each giving decision you make. In its earliest form, tithing was a charitable giving practice that allocated a certain percentage of income for giving – traditionally ten percent. There is no magic number, however, and setting any budget for giving will be helpful. And, teaching your children to set aside a percentage
By Carol Golden You’ve probably stalled in making a charitable gift numerous times before. Thinking you can’t afford it, will be embarrassed because your gift will be small, you won’t be able to choose among the many worthy organizations – it’s too much. You give up and decide to get to it later. These are but a few of the many barriers to charitable giving. In my more than twenty years as a fundraiser, I’ve heard them all. I try not to cast them all as excuses, as some are surely valid. But the reality of charitable giving is that we can all do it and it doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s true that some of us can place more zeros at the back of the figure on our check, but given the tremendous need in our community, we can all do something. Here are some simple guidelines to help you take the plunge into the charitable giving pool. Proactive or reactive? Do you initiate your charitable giving or do you simply respond to requests you receive? Whether responding to a call from a friend/business associate or answering a compelling piece of direct mail, many people develop giving habits that are solely reactive. There is nothing wrong with this,
Carol Golden but proactive giving feels quite different and is considerably more satisfying. Whether we are invited to a special fundraising event, receive annual appeal mailings, or a phonea-thon call, we are being “hit” frequently as potential donors. But guess what? You don’t actually have to respond to any appeals. Imagine how great it might feel to send a check to an organization you admire that has never asked you for support. How much to give? As a family, establish a charitable giving budget for the year. While you may stray from this due to an unexpected and high-
“By taking time to find your passion in giving, you are tapping into your personal ability to change the world.” of their allowance for tzedakah sets the stage for a lifelong practice of giving. What do I need to know before making a gift? The dramatic explosion in the numbers of charitable organizations in this country, and in Rhode Island, is daunting. How do I know if any particular organization is worthy? Unless you plan to spend significant time and energy (which may make sense if the gift you are considering is significant) digging
into the organization’s finances and tax return, here are a few simple steps you can do. Go to the organization’s website and give it a quick look. Is there clear information about the mission and programs of the organization? Is there a list of staff and board members that you can review? Do they describe how much money is raised and how it is allocated within the organization? Go to Guidestar.org and make sure the organization is classified as a 501c3 public charity. If not, your charitable gift may not be fully deductible on your taxes. As far as you know, is the organization stable or is it in crisis? The crisis might be financial or might be a leadership transition. If the latter is the case, go in with your eyes wide open knowing that your gift might carry some risk of not achieving the goals you’ve set out for it. How should I choose the organizations I will support? In my work with many generous donors over the years, I have learned that there is a direct correlation between the level of focus in giving and the level of joy and satisfaction. Sprinkling “fairy dust” (many small gifts made to many charities) may seem appealing but is it meaningful? Instead, to
find clues that will help you focus your giving, ask yourself these questions: What are the institutions, experiences and people that have had the most impact on my life? What moves me the most in world events – both most troubling and most delightful? What are my heart and mind telling me? Think of giving as an investment in the future of the world. By taking time to find your passion in giving, you are tapping into your personal ability to change the world. And while that may sound lofty, it doesn’t need to be difficult. In fact, philanthropy should be a joyful experience. If you are making gifts, whether large or small, but not enjoying the contribution, why not take a pause. Take your own charitable giving pulse, talk with friends and family, get focused and transform your giving experience. Carol Golden is Senior Philanthropic Advisor at the Rhode Island Foundation. She has served the Foundation in a variety of roles since 1991. The Rhode Island Foundation, founded in 1916, is one of the oldest and largest community foundations in the country, and is the only community foundation serving the state of Rhode Island. You may reach Carol at cgolden@rifoundation.org.
“The International Day in memory of the victims of the Holocaust is thus a day on which we must reassert our commitment to human rights. ... We must also go beyond remembrance, and make sure that new generations know this history. We must apply the lessons of the Holocaust to today’s world. And we must do our utmost so that all peoples must enjoy the protections and rights for which the United Nations stands.” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
FINANCE & PHILANTHROPY
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Sustaining the Jewish community Creative planned giving opportunities to leave a lasting Jewish legacy By Edward M. Bruckner ebruckner@jewishallianceri.org
For decades, Jewish communities across North America have organized themselves by establishing Jewish communal institutions responding to the urgent needs of the times. Jewish Federations, in particular, and now the Jewish Alliance, have played and continue to play a central role in American Jewish history in leading the Jewish community through good times and bad, through rescue and refuge, through caring for the vulnerable, creating communities of learning, kindness and social justice. In addition to serving the immediate and pressing needs of the community, we have the responsibility to our fellow Jews and generation of Jews who came before us to ensure a strong foundation for our Jewish community. How can we sustain all the programs and services we provide as a Jewish community? For many of us, our support of our Jewish community is guided by the Jewish value of tzedakah. For community members who care deeply about the strength of the Jewish community, making a planned gift is a terrific way to have a meaningful impact on Jewish life. Over the years, endowment support has benefitted our community’s Jews in every age group, in Rhode Island and beyond. In addition to the community impact of the dollars raised for the Jewish Alliance’s Annual Campaign, last year alone, the Jewish Federation Foundation’s endowment made grants in excess of $1 million to support our Jewish community throughout Rhode Island and around the world. These grants are made from the following two sources: permanent endowment funds that community members established to help sustain particular organizations or specific areas of interest and donor-advised funds established by community members who use their personal fund to recommend grants to charitable organizations. The Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island’s endowment has helped families forge Jewish connections, assisted our seniors, strengthened our synagogues and schools, introduced teens to Israel and helped make Jewish education more affordable. This is possible because endowment funds are invested to generate income, which is used each year to improve the lives of Jews throughout greater Rhode Island and worldwide; the rest is added back to the
endowment to protect its value against inflation. The benefits to the Jewish community and to those Jews who have chosen to make a planned gift are significant. Depending on one’s financial and tax situation, a planned gift may be the easiest, most cost-effective option to create a Jewish legacy. Many people think that you need to be a millionaire to establish an endowment fund. The truth is that every gift of every amount is important and impactful. I often wonder what the Jewish community would look like, how much more joy and meaning Jewish life would be, if only more people thought about leaving part of their estate to any one of the many Jewish organizations throughout Greater Rhode Island.
“ If you’re giving to the Jewish Alliance on an annual basis during your lifetime, why not take advantage of one final opportunity to make an impact on the future?” Community members who envision a future Jewish community are creating endowments that will touch the lives of generations to come. Establishing an endowment fund at the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island can be done quite simply during one’s lifetime with a gift of cash or securities either as a single payment or with payments over several years. Another easy way is to leave a bequest through one’s will, trust or retirement account. This is suitable for many people because it is always revocable, should one’s circumstances change. A bequest allows one to make a major gift without a significant expenditure during one’s lifetime. There are many other creative ways to sustain the Jewish community. For community members in their 20s, 30s and 40s, establishing a life insurance policy to benefit the Jewish community is easy to do. And if there is an insurance policy that one already owns that might not be needed, it’s easy to name the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island as a beneficiary. Another creative way to support the Jewish community is to give a gift that pays you or your loved ones income for life, and then adds to the Jew-
Greater Rhode Island. As a longtime Jewish Alliance (formerly Federation) campaigner and past president, Mel views
“ I hope our commitment will inspire others to consider a planned gift at the Jewish Federation Foundation.”
Mel and Patty Alperin ish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island’s endowment through a charitable gift annuity or a charitable trust. Community leaders Mel and Patty Alperin are not only generous donors to the Alliance Annual Campaign, but they
André Blais
also understand the importance of sustaining the Jewish community for future generations. The Alperins recently established two Charitable Remainder Unitrusts at the Jewish Federation Foundation of
this planned gift as a logical extension of their years of Annual Campaign support. Mel commented that, “If you think about it, if you’re giving to the Jewish Alliance on an annual basis during your lifetime, why not take advantage of one final opportunity to make an impact on the future?” Mel describes his planned gift as a “win-win situation. There are so many creative ways to help – whether you have a lot to give or just a little, it’s really a terrific thing.” Mel explains that, “We wanted to accomplish two important goals when we set up the charitable remainder trusts. First was to ensure that those dear to us had an additional source of sufficient income during their lifetime. And second, we wanted to help strengthen
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The Jewish voice
Tax credits for investments in Jewish education Several states, including Rhode Island, provide tax credits for people or corporations that invest in education through Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). In Rhode Island, those who pledge and donate to such organizations two years in a row receive 90% tax credits from the R.I. Division of Taxation, in addition to charitable deductions on their federal taxes. One-year donors receive 75% tax credits. These donations are investments not just in education, but in businesses and the welfare of the state. Effective taxcredit programs must produce some type of measurable return on investment in order to be recognized as good tax policy, especially at a time when all aspects of government taxing and spending are under such scrutiny, in particular the amount spent on K-12 education. Tax credits were created “to serve a public purpose” by providing an incentive to create jobs and foster business growth and expansion. The current program was begun to
address both the high tax and poor educational outcomes issues that are of great concern. A recent study in Florida noted that, for every $1 of corporate contributions made toward the Florida Corporate Scholarship Tax Credit Program, the state saved $1.49 in state education funding. Rhode Island’s Corporate Scholarship Tax Credit Pro-
COURTESY PHOTO | JTA
Jewish alliance endowment helps to strengthen israeli economy Israeli stocks added to investment portfolio
By RoBeRt D. sHeRWiN gram, enacted in 2006, allows Rhode Island businesses to receive a corporate tax credit for contributions that provide tuition scholarships to students in families with income that’s less than 250% of the Federal poverty level. The scholarships give these students the opportunity to attend participating private K-12 schools tax cReDit | 23
Along with Miami, Baltimore, Chicago and Memphis, the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island, chaired by Doris Feinberg, recently became one of the fi rst Jewish endowments in North America to commit funds to the Israeli Stock Market. During the Jewish Federations of North America’s 2013 Investment Institute in Palm Beach, professional leaders from across North America met to discuss how to maximize re-
turns on more than $13.5 billion in assets that the Jewish federations hold in their endowments. Influenced by what they’ve learned, the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island’s Investment Committee and Alliance VP of Financial
“Connectivity between our local Jewish community and Israel.” Resource Development, Eddie Bruckner, felt that Market Vectors® Israel ETF (ISRA®) investments should be an important part of their international Growth Stock allocation. In addition, the investment represented an excellent long-term opportunity for the overall endowment portfolio. ISRA® comprises 105 Israeli stocks and is diversified by weight, sector, and inclusion of Israeli companies listed worldwide, not just those on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. According to Vaneck.com, the fund’s key points are “exposure to a stable, growing, and resilient economy, exposure to a multisector economy and exposure to Israeli companies globally.” ISRA® may be the most efficient vehicle for investing in
the complete universe of Israeli equities. It tracks the BlueStar Israel Global Index (BLSNTR), which was developed by regional specialists and continues to evolve to reflect the global footprint of Israel’s economy and companies. Those who would like to research the fund may do so at vaneck.com/funds/ ISRA.aspx. The Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island’s Investment Committee believes that the Israeli equity market presents a compelling investment opportunity, as Israeli equities have shown strong long-term performance and the Israeli equity market was the best emerging market performer on a risk-adjusted basis from 2002 to 2012. The Foundation’s investment portfolio has always included Israel Bonds, which are backed by the Israeli government. With ISRA® Index, the Foundation is now investing dollars and helping to strengthen and support the Israeli economy. Investing in Israeli equities provides another important area of connectivity between our local Jewish community and Israel. RoBeRt sHeRWiN is chair of the Investment Committee and serves on the board of directors of the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island.
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Everything I needed to be successful in business I learned in Jewish Day School By Bob Diener After graduating law school and practicing for two years, I launched an airline ticket business, which was quickly profitable. I sold that business in 1991 and then launched Hotel Reservations Network, which became hotels.com. I sold the balance of my interest in hotels.com in 2003 and after a five-year noncompete launched getaroom. com. Recently during our weekly Friday night dinner discussion, I mentioned that getaroom.com is growing and profitable and reached some new milestones. My mother asked me, “How did you know what to do at this company and the others to make them succeed? You didn’t go to business school or work in a big company.” She was right. I didn’t have formal business training other than a basic course in accounting and finance. No work experience in a business. No internships. No mentors. My answer surprised her. “I owe all of my business success to you and Dad for sending me to a Jewish Day School. That’s where I learned about the best book to running a successful business ever written – the Bible.” • Do your homework I learned the principle of due diligence through Talmudic study. For years, I studied debates among rabbinical scholars. Nothing was taken for granted – all arguments were considered and debated. I learned to ask why and to make sure I understood the issues. Studying alone was not enough. We were paired with other students and spent much of our time discussing the issues with the the person we were paired with before the next class. We learned to tear each other’s arguments apart. We read every commentary on the topic we could find. I approached business the same way. I did my homework. I researched the competition. I tested the market. There is no short-
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cut for doing your homework in a business and understanding the competitive landscape. Major mistakes can be avoided and opportunities found by speaking to experts and analysts, doing market studies and focus groups, analyzing expenses and doing your homework – due diligence. • Treat your employees fairly One of the most difficult parts of running a business is dealing with employee issues. Employees can be demanding: raises, time off, expenses, conflicts and more. When confronted with these issues, I just thought about the principle of paying employees on time: “The wages of a worker shall not remain with you all night until the morning” (Lev 19:13). The Torah commands us not to take advantage of your employees: “You shall not abuse a needy and destitute laborer, whether a fellow countryman or a stranger” (Deut, 24:14). This taught me to always treat employees equally and fairly. I applied an absolute level of fairness among all our employees. It is always difficult to say no, but when you develop a reputation for fairness to your employees, they respect you and know that they were treated properly. • Have the highest level of customer service There is a high level of customer service issues in the travel business. Flight delays, lost luggage, noisy rooms, housekeeping issues and more. There are also many that try to take advantage of the system. I employed a very simple standard for customer care: “Love your neighbor like yourself” (Lev. 19:18) – put yourself in the shoes of the customer and treat them as you want to be treated. While many companies struggle with how to handle customer service, following this standard is the best way to build a long term loyal customer base. We all prefer to patronize businesses that are fair on returns/ exchanges and that treat us well. When we launched getaroom.
tax credit
throughout the state. Such business entities can be C-corps, Scorps, LLCs and LLPs. Among the recipient schools are Jewish Community Day School and Providence Hebrew Day School, which benefit from donations to The Foundation for Rhode Island Day Schools, the SGO that serves the Jewish community. The schools receive allocations from the SGO to their scholarship funds, specifically for those students whose family income is within 250% of the federal poverty level. During the course of the past several years, more than $3 million dollars has been allocated to the two schools from the SGO. These donations have allowed these schools to provide fine secular and Jewish
education to Rhode Islanders who could not otherwise afford to pay the full tuition. The only problem with this program is that the number of applications for participation in it exceeds the statewide cap for such donations – currently it is $1.5 million in tax credits. Therefore, a summer drawing is held to determine which of the applications the Division of Taxation receives on July 1 will be accepted into the program. Applications are solicited during the spring by the SGOs and submitted on July 1. For more information about this program, please contact Larry Katz at lkatz@ jewishallianceri.org or at 401.421.4111, ext. 179.
com, top customer service was a great competitive advantage in a marketplace of foreign outsourcing and cost cutting. The high level of customer service has differentiated us in the marketplace. Treat your customers the way you’d want to be treated. • Be honest with customers I was constantly confronted with dilemmas: How much do we disclose to customers? Do we deliver exactly what was ordered or something inferior to make a higher profit? Do we put in slightly less weight than the amount the customer believes they are paying for? These answers are easy when you follow the Bible’s guidance: “You shall have just balances and just weights” (Lev. 19:36). Even if your customer won’t find out – don’t cheat them. “Do not… put a stumbling block before the blind” (Lev. 19:14) means do not take advantage when the other party doesn’t know what you are doing to them. We are often confronted with situations that can increase profits by cutting corners. Why not increase profits by using a cheaper material or a second hand product or use lower cost components although the customer believes you are using high end components. When confronted with these dilemmas, the answer is easy when following the biblical principle of not putting a stumbling block before the blind. • Always act as if you are being watched Your customer overpays you –you receive a refund twice. – at
the cash register you are given $100 instead of $10 in change. Do you keep the funds that were mistakenly given you or do you give it back? The Sages say, “Know what is above you: An eye that sees” (Ethics of the Fathers, 2:1) When you realize that someone is always watching you, the answer is easy. You act differently and work under a higher standard. • Build a reputation for integrity and honesty. The Talmud discusses the questions one is asked in the heavenly court at the end of one’s life (Shabbat 31a). The first question asked is: Were you honest in your business dealings? This is the first question because it’s the true measure of one’s success in life. There is no greater temptation to cheat than in a business setting. If you overcome this temptation, you will reach a higher level of character that others esteem. As the Medrash says, “If one is honest in his business dealings and people esteem him, it is accounted to him as though he had fulfilled the whole Torah” (Mechilta B’Shalach 1). • Be humble: accept and encourage criticism. “He who loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid” (Proverbs 12:1). Judaism teaches us to be humble. Accept and encourage criticism, especially from your employees. My best ideas came from customers and employees. We read every customer and employee suggestion carefully. By creating an environment that allows sug-
gestions and criticism, you can improve your business and allow employees and customers to feel part of the business. • What to do once you are profitable The Torah teaches us not only how to build a successful business, but what to do once it is successful. The Bible teaches us to be socially responsible and not forget about those that don’t have food to eat. We have a social responsibility to our communities, and are obligated to donate a portion of our profits to the needy. Encourage your employees, partners and customers to be charitable. Match your employee charitable giving to encourage them. Encourage your employees to do community service. Use your business as a vehicle for community improvement. “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself” (Proverbs 11:24). • View your work as a means, not an end When we help others, we feel fulfilled. As King Solomon said, “Our work is meaningless unless it is to do good” (Ecclesiastes 3:12–13). Bob Diener is founder of Hotels.com and Getaroom.com. He practiced law with Gibson Dunn & Crutcher, managed a hedge fund, and regularly lectures at the University of Florida and Cornell Law School. He is also the former editor of the Cornell Law Review and is on KGO radio every Sunday morning.
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the Jewish community that was there for us growing up. We want to ensure that there will be sufficient funds for the needs of the next generation.” Charitable remainder trusts are popular because one can make a charitable gift, reducing one’s estate, and provide a steady stream of income for life. Patty said, “I’m proud that Mel and I were able to provide for the Jewish community and also help our family. We funded the trusts with appreciated securities, which is always a prudent way to make a charitable gift.” Trusts can also be funded with appreciated assets, such as when selling a business or other assets. “I hope our commitment will inspire others to consider a planned gift at the Jewish Federation Foundation.” The Alperins’ endowment reflects their deep commitment to Jewish life and also their confidence in the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island and the Jewish Alliance. “We feel that we can trust the Jewish Federation Foundation,” Mel says. Anyone who values our Jewish community can make a big difference with a planned gift of any size. At the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island, planned gifts establish endowment funds that can be either for unrestricted purposes or used to help sup-
port the Alliance Annual Campaign or specific programmatic areas or organizations. One can also name the fund in honor of oneself, one’s family, or a loved one, and that name will be recognized in Jewish Alliance publications. Endowment funds established decades ago are still providing important financial support to our Jewish community today. A trusted custodian of our
“Anyone who values our Jewish community can make a big difference with a planned gift of any size. Our support will help engage the next generation and all the generations that follow.” community’s philanthropic capital, the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island currently oversees more than $52 million in assets. The Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island’s investment objective for our endowment assets is to achieve long-term gains and to minimize risk, while providing a dependable source of support for community needs.
It is extremely important to the future of the Jewish people that we have this source of funds that is perpetually supporting areas such as Jewish education, scholarships, Jewish overnight camping, caring for the vulnerable, support for Israel and Jews worldwide and programs for Jewish families with young children. The Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island, currently chaired by Doris Feinberg, has a large Investment Committee comprised of volunteer leaders familiar with investment and endowment management. Rob Sherwin, current chair of the Investment Committee, said that “The Jewish Federation Foundation’s endowment is a critical component of the overall picture and strength of our Jewish community. Our Investment Committee, guided by an outside investment consultant, is diligent about following our asset allocation and investment policy, providing us with the best possible investment performance and protection of our capital in the unfortunate event of a market decline. The funds are administered carefully, distributing the income prudently and managing investments in accordance with the highest ethical and financial standards.” Rob Sherwin feels that his connection to the Jewish community comes not only from acting as the chair of the Investment Committee, but also from being a community mem-
The Jewish Voice ber who cares deeply about the future of the Jewish community. He said, “My wife Mindy and I are committed to ensuring a strong Jewish community and have recently made arrangements for a planned gift to the Jewish Federation Foundation. We are confident with the Jewish Federation Foundation’s endowment process and know our support will help engage the next generation and all the generations that follow.” One of our community’s challenges is not only to inspire people to create a Jewish legacy, but also to identify those community members who have already made a bequest to the Jewish community and have not informed the charitable organ i zat ion. By not i fy ing the organization, community members can ensure that written terms are established to guarantee that the funds available each year will be used in a manner consistent with their wishes. For example, if you care deeply about Jewish education or scholarships to send kids to Jewish overnight camp, we want to ensure that, 100 or 200-plus years from now, we can count on that support. Endowments can be structured to support not only the Jewish Alliance, but all of the Jewish organizations close to one’s heart. Support of the Jewish Alliance is indeed critical, but the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island is here to help strengthen the entire Jewish community, including all our Jewish
agencies and partners, synagogues, and schools. Imagine the impact an endowment fund can have when the dollars generated each year support not one, but two or three or even 18 of your favorite Jewish organizations! Community members who have bequest intentions or other planned gifts are members of the Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island’s Dor l’ Dor Planned Giving and Bequest Society. A special event to honor and recognize members of the Dor l’ Dor Society is planned for May 1, 2014. The Jewish Federation Foundation of Greater Rhode Island is available to you and your tax and financial advisors to discuss the options that are best for you and your financial situation. We have the knowledge and expertise to help you strengthen the Jewish community, endowing your personal vision for the future. Please Note: The information in this article is offered for general informational and educational purposes and is not legal or financial advice. You should seek the advice of your professional advisor on all such matters. Edward M. Bruckner, Vice President of Financial Resource Development, can be contacted at ebruckner@jewishallianceri.org or 401-4214111, ext. 174.
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Judith Yovel Recanati: “A big heart with a woman inside” By Frayda Leibtag When Judith Yovel Recanati and her late husband Dr. Israel Yovel founded the Gandyr Foundation in 2004, they invited their three daughters to join the family foundation as equal partners. “When I was growing up, the businessmen dealt with philanthropy. We created the Gandyr Foundation because we wanted our daughters to be involved in the world of giving. We extended an invitation, but were not sure that they would accept; we thought that they would say that they were too young and not ready for the responsibility,” remembered Yovel Recanati. The Yovel daughters, who were in their twenties at the time, were excited to accept their parents’ offer, especially since they did not assume that they would be asked to join the foundation in the first place. According to Noa Yovel Maoz, the middle daughter, “Not many parents offer this opportunity to their children. Most people who establish foundations want to focus on their own personal agendas. It is not so simple to have five people sitting around the table, yet my parents offered us an equal vote and voice in determining the goals and funding priorities of Gandyr.” Gandyr, in Hebrew, is an acronym for family members Gili, Noa, Daria, Judith, and Rolly (Israel). Explaining how the foundation has transformed the family, Yovel Maoz said, “As a result of our involvement with the Foundation, we have been exposed to the world of philanthropy. We have also become deeply familiar with the third sector in Israel and the organizations and activity taking place here. Beyond this, however, is the impact that the creation of the Foundation has had on our family on a micro level. By establishing the Foundation, my parents created a platform for our family to discuss our ideals, values and visions for the State of Israel. The Foundation has monthly board meetings but we also talk about these things at Friday night dinners.”
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An interview with one of Israel’s foremost philanthropists
“Since the establishment of the Foundation, the topics that I discuss with my daughters have expanded way beyond the realm of typical mother-daughter conversations,” agreed Yovel Recanati. “The Foundation has empowered us to think together, to take on responsibilities and be more involved, to become familiar with social issues, to be creative and to make impactful decisions that affect many people and organizations. It is a real pleasure to have my daughters participating in this process with me,” she said. For Yovel Recanati, the decision to involve her daughters in the family’s philanthropic activity was a natural one that followed in the footsteps of her grandfather, Leon Recanati, who was the head of the Jewish community in Salonika, Greece. In the early 1930s, the elder Recanati recognized the clear signs of the Nazi threat and led a large group of Jews to Palestine. After realizing that not one of the 70 existing banks in Israel was run by Sephardim, he founded the Palestine Discount Bank in 1935 and employed immigrants from the Balkan states, enabling them to start their lives here. “I was born into a family that integrated philanthropy and business from the very beginning. Giving and being involved in Israeli society is part of my DNA. It is a privilege, but also an obligation,” stated Yovel Recanati. Always looking to update and innovate, the Yovel family founded the Gandyr Foundation with the intention of implementing business principles in their philanthropic activity. In addition to funding, grantees of the Gandyr Foundation receive advice on finances, collaborations and the full support of the board of directors. The Foundation is currently focusing on strengthening the infrastructures of programs that support young adults, ages 18 to 30. One of the Foundation’s successful programs is a partnership with the Jerusalem Municipality and five youth movements to create a platform for coopera-
Judith Yovel Recanati tion between the groups. “We want to encourage young people in Israel to get involved in politics and to be influencers and agents of change. We want to empower them, connect them and teach them to be their own advocates so that they will stay in Israel and envision their future here as contributing members of society,” explained Yovel Recanati. Growing up in Israel, Yovel Recanati was an active leader in the Tzofim community scouts and served as a Women’s Corps and Welfare Officer in the Israel Defense Forces. After completing degrees in archeology and photography, Yovel Recanati studied art therapy at Lesley College and psychotherapy at Bar Ilan University where she met psychiatrist Dr. Yossi Hadar, who was her thesis advisor. Together, Yovel Recanati and Hadar founded Natal-Israel’s Trauma Center for Victims of Terror and War. Tragically, Hadar passed away two weeks before the official opening of Natal in June 1998, strengthening Yovel Recanati’s resolve to make the center he had envisioned a reality. Since its establishment, the organization has helped 170,000 victims of war and terror-related trauma embark on a path to healing. Yovel Recanati has served as Chairperson of the association since its establishment and works full-time on a volunteer basis. She also personally finances 25 percent of the organization’s NIS 14.5 million annual budget.
cybersecurity
an obligation to educate themselves on the nature of their respective agency’s cyber technology and ensure that the threat is treated earnestly. Reach out to state homeland security officials, pursue cyber training, promote cyber hygiene standards for staff and volunteers, conduct vulnerability assessments and, most importantly, contact local law enforcement partners to request cybersecu-
rity information and resources. Cybersecurity has become the newest front in homeland security. It is imperative that we apply the same level of awareness and action to this threat as we have to ensuring the physical security of our facilities. Last year, then-Defense Secretary Leon Panetta issued a call to arms against cyberattacks, warning that sophisticated attacks against the United States
could be America’s “cyber Pearl Harbor.” The threat of cyberattack is more real than ever. Like the years leading up to 9/11, the clarion call has been sounded and warnings have been made. Are we listening? Paul Goldenberg is the national director of the Secure Community Network, an initiative of the Jewish Federations of North America.
“Judith decided to finance the overhead of Natal so that every shekel that people donate goes directly to the work that the organization is carrying out,” explained Orly Gal, Executive Director of Natal. Elaborating on Yovel Recanati’s devotion to Natal, Gal recounted how “when the second Lebanon War erupted, Judith was abroad. The moment she heard the news, she immediately flew back to Israel. Her commitment to Natal is unwavering. She has incredible drive and knows how to set goals and bring them to fruition. Judith’s vision, philanthropy and modesty are truly extraordinary.” Yovel Recanati’s dedication to Natal has made a strong impression on her daughters. “At
“I was born into a family that integrated philanthropy and business from the beginning.” home, we always say that Natal is our fourth sibling,” said daughter Noa. “From the beginning, we pitched in by sending out letters and helping with the renovation of the Natal building. The creation of Natal is a significant part of my mother’s life and has become an important part of our lives as well,” she said. In addition to her work at Natal and the Gandyr Foundation, Yovel Recanati is actively involved in forming a new map of Israeli philanthropy. She is a member of the Israeli branch of the Jewish Funders Network and chair of the March 2015 JFN conference, a board member at Sheatufim and involved in third sector organizations such as Midot, Lion of JudahIsrael and others. In addition, Yovel Recanati is a member of Committed to Give, because she is a firm believer in the need to rebrand philanthropy in Israel as an opportunity to create significant change in the country.
“The most important thing we can do is set personal examples – for our children and for others. My late husband was a medical doctor and I worked for years as an art therapist before founding Natal. We were both role models for our daughters of what it means to give, day in and day out,” said Yovel Recanati. The three Yovel daughters have also chosen career paths that enable them to give on a daily basis and they view philanthropy as an important part of their lives. Noa, a mother of five, is already implementing giving practices at home. She explained, “In our house, the children’s allowance is divided into thirds: a third for something they want, a third for something they need, and a third is allotted to give to someone else in need. By starting on a small scale, we hope to imbue the value of giving into our children. At the end of the day, however, the personal examples that we set are the most important thing of all.” Gal, Natal’s Executive Director, accurately described Yovel Recanati as “a big heart with a woman inside.” Yovel Recanati has committed her time, her financial resources and her life to making the State of Israel a better place. Her devotion and relentless efforts are creating positive change and a real sense of optimism and hope for Israeli citizens. Yovel Recanati concluded, “My story is an Israeli one. I see myself as a Zionist and am happy that my daughters live here and see their futures here. As a family and as a foundation, we feel responsible for effecting change for young adults. Israelis need to understand that giving is a social responsibility, and a means for effecting change and influence. Anyone who has the ability to give should donate to causes they believe are important. We must impart this message to future generations of Israelis.” This article is part of a series on Philanthropy in Israel and was posted on eJewish Philantropy.
26 | January 31, 2014
Business
The Jewish Voice
thejewishvoice.org
FinanCe & PHilanTHroPY | BUsiness
Tax planning advice By NiKKi M paRNess, cfp®, MBa Thinking outside the box or maybe thinking inside the right box is required when it comes to taxes and tax planning. There are constant changes to the laws and we must constantly be aware of them. A father-daughter team [the author’s father is Larry B Parness, CPA, PFS, MST, MBA], we are particularly interested in some of these latest developments. 1. cord Blood Banking: Medical Deduction, charitable Deduction or Neither? As an expectant mom in 2014, I have been looking into umbilical cord blood banking, either privately or publically through a donation center. And then, as a fi nancial professional, I have been thinking about the deductibility of this cost as either a medical expense or charitable contribution. Interestingly, so have others. In April 2011 and then again in December 2013, the “Family Cord Blood Banking Act” (H.R. 1614 and 3673) was introduced in the House of Representatives. While no further action has been taken, this act would amend Section 213(d) of the IRS Code to add cord blood banking services as a qualified medical expense. This would allow individuals to use tax advantaged dollars to pay for cord blood banking services through flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health savings accounts (HSAs), health reimbursement arrange-
ments (HRAs), or the medical expenses tax deduction. According to IRS Information Letter INFO 2010-0017, one point of contention is whether the cord blood is being banked to treat an existing/imminently probable disease or as a precaution to treat a disease that might possibly develop in the future. The former would qualify, while the latter does not satisfy the existing legal standard that, at a minimum, a disease must be imminently probable. However, in layperson’s terms, you may be able to avoid paying
taxes on the money spent for the procedure. 2. gifting to grandchildren: changing opportunities as federal estate tax Regulations change My father, as a current zadie of two grandchildren and an expectant zadie of one more, has
been looking at estate and gift planning. The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA) provides substantial estate tax relief and increased certainty. It retains the $5.12 million exemptions of 2012, indexing them for inflation. It has also made the portability provision permanent. So, many of us might think that an estate plan review is not necessary. Not so. Changes related to personal circumstances, such as new grandchildren, may require estate plan changes. State estate tax amounts that have different exemption amounts than the federal can also have a significant impact. Maybe some changing regulations, s u c h as tax changes regarding the same sex marriages, home office expenses or the Affordable Care Act personally interest you? Having a professional tax consultant can be a most a dv a nt a g e ou s asset to your tax fi ling experience. NiKKi M. paRNess, CFP®, MBA is a partner at Larry B. Parness, a full-service accounting fi rm providing business and individual consulting and all aspects of tax planning.
January 31, 2014 |
27
Johansson talks up sodastream in addressing oxfam criticism (JTA) — Scarlett Johansson addressed criticism from the Oxfam aid organization over her role as spokeswoman for SodaStream, which operates a factory in the West Bank. “I remain a supporter of economic cooperation and social interaction between a democratic Israel and Palestine,” Johansson, a Jewish-American actress who serves Oxfam as a global ambassador, said in a statement released Saturday. “SodaStream is a company that is not only committed to the environment but to building a bridge to peace between Israel and Palestine, supporting neighbors working alongside each other, receiving equal pay, equal benefits and equal rights. “As part of my efforts as an Ambassador for Oxfam, I have witnessed fi rst-hand that progress is made when communities join together and work alongside one another,” she said. SodaStream, an Israeli fi rm that manufactures home soda makers, signed Johansson to be its fi rst global brand ambassador. She is set to appear in a television ad for the company during the Super Bowl on Feb. 2. The company employs Israeli and Palestinian workers at its factory in the Maale Adumim settlement. Oxfam addressed Johansson’s association with SodaStream in a statement on its website, saying “Oxfam is
now considering the implications of her new statement and what it means for Ms. Johansson’s role as an Oxfam global ambassador.” On Jan. 23, in a statement posted on its website, Oxfam wrote that it “believes that businesses that operate in settlements further the ongoing poverty and denial of rights of the Palestinian communities that we work to support.” Johansson has traveled to India, Sri Lanka and Kenya on behalf of Oxfam. Her statement concludes, “Even though it is a side effect of representing SodaStream, I am happy that light is being shed on this issue in hopes that a greater number of voices will contribute to the conversation of a peaceful two state solution in the near future.” Meanwhile, the Fox network, which is airing the Super Bowl, rejected SodaStream’s commercial for the big game because it objected to a sultry Johansson saying at the end, “Sorry, Coke and Pepsi,” USA Today reported. Daniel Birnbaum, CEO of SodaStream, told USA Today that it had no choice but to drop the line, but complained to the newspaper that Fox rejected the Super Bowl commercial “because they’re afraid of Coke and Pepsi.” CBS, which aired the Super Bowl last year, took a similar action against SodaStream’s spot for that game.
28 | January 31, 2014
Seniors
The Jewish Voice
His companions were a court jester and an owl William Shakespeare, who survived to age 54, probably knew little of the cognitive deficits that sometimes accompany advanced aging. In fact, in his era, organic dementia of the elderly was not conto Of Science sidered be a public & Society health problem meriting much atStanley m. tention. Aronson, M.D. One of his tragedies, however, provides us with a poet’s perception of the contentious interaction, in an aging monarch, between inordinate pride and encroaching senility. Shakespeare, with no known training in neuropsychiatry, wrote an immortal drama, “The Tragedy of King Lear,” performed on December 26, 1606, published in London in 1608 and revised for the First Folio in 1623. The play is loosely based on the tale of a pre-Roman, Celtic ruler who descends into mad-
ness. It is a tale filled with sorrow, betrayal and senile dissolution with sufficient clinical hints to make the reader suspect that Lear was a victim of Alzheimer’s disease abetted by domestic duplicity. Imagine that Lear is brought to a Providence physician’s office for diagnostic appraisal. He is distraught, without either a sense of identity or a family name – just Lear. He is patently confused, unwashed, unduly proud but disheveled – an elderly male, four score and more in years. He is, he tells you in a shrill voice, deeply suspicious of his children – and not without justification. His sole problem, he whispers to you in confidence, is not himself but his three ungrateful daughters – Goneril, Regan and Cordelia – and their husbands who wish to deprive him of his trappings, wealth, companions and even his freedom of movement. In short, they wish to ground him in some medieval nursing home. The family, on the other hand, tells this attentive physician that Lear tends to wander aimlessly in the rain on dark and stormy nights, consorting with fools, wolves and owls. He
genial protection from kith and kin, are burdened with bewilderment, duplicity and rage. There is a specter that haunts all advanced nations: it is the specter of organic dementia of the aged, its principal form being Alzheimer’s disease. In Rhode Island, for example, over one percent of the population is afflicted with organic dementia. To the economist, it is the most expensive organic disease in the United States, with nursing home bills of many billions of dollars per year. To the legislator, it is a subversive force
screams angry words at the indifferent trees, removes his clothing despite the cold and sings nursery songs, resurrected from a distant childhood. And, like the brief illumination of lightning in an otherwise black night, Lear has momentary flashes of insight. Gloucester wishes to kiss his hand, but Lear responds: “Let me wipe it first, it smells of mortality.” And finally, when Lear dies, there are some who wish to resuscitate him; but those who truly love him say: “Vex not his ghost … let him pass.” Lear was afflicted with a lengthy, progressive and ir-
reversible disorder that is poignant, demeaning and graceless. It deprives its victims of memory, orientation, purpose, balanced judgment, problemsolving skills and, eventually, even the capacity to fulfill the most basic of everyday needs. Ultimately, there is a loss of spirit and even personal identity, with the victim reduced to a wretched, near-vegetative existence; he is now vulnerable to threats both external and imaginary, mute, incontinent, incapable of recognizing even close relatives. And Lear’s terminal years of life, instead of being filled with the warmth and con-
“There is a specter that haunts all advanced nations: it is the specter of organic dementia of the aged, its principal form being Alzheimer’s disease.” that defeats earnest efforts to contain the costs of health care. To the physician, it is a lengthy, progressive disorder that allows its victim to survive without any vestiges of individuality. And to the sufferer, what a fearful thing is senile dementia! It is death without death’s peace, dignity and finality. Stanley M. Aronson, MD, can be reached at smamd@ cox.net
A breakfast conversation with our federal delegation By Jeffrey Padwa Join us for a breakfast conversation with Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen James Langevin and David Cicilline on Sunday, February 23 at 10:30 a.m. at the Dwares JCC in the Alliance Social Hall. This is an opportunity for the Jewish community to engage with our national leaders and talk about current events in the Middle East, including the Israel – Palestinian Peace Process, the Nuclear Talks with Iran, and U.S. – Israeli Relations as well as domestic and economic issues. We will learn what our Senators and Congressmen are thinking about and working on and hear their views and policy positions on these issues. The breakfast is the first in a series of programs aimed at engagement, learning more about our government and providing the Jewish community with opportunities to dis-
cuss the issues of the day. We are fortunate to live in a state where our federal elected officials are accessible and we can establish close relationships with them. This is also a great chance to advocate on important issues. The program is sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council (CRC) of the Alliance and is being organized by a dynamic committee, which includes: Debbie Blitz, Marty Cooper, Arthur Fixler, Donna Frank, Michael Friedman, Sharon Gaines, Rich Glucksman, Maxine Goldin, Jeffrey Levy, Scott Libman, Ken Orenstein, Jeffrey Padwa, Barbara Sokoloff, Rob Stolzman, Robert Stupell and Cheryl Teverow. On April 30 and May 1, the CRC will conduct a mission to Washington D.C. Participants are scheduled to visit the White House, the Israeli Embassy and the Holocaust Museum. In addition, they
will be going to the Capitol to meet with the RI Congressional Delegation members to discuss important community issues. More details on this enlightening mission will be available soon. Reserve your seat now for the Congressional Breakfast on February 23 at the Alliance. Attend for $25, or step up and be a Sponsor of the program for $100. Register online at jewishallianeri.org. For more information about the Congressional Delegation Breakfast or the Washington D.C. Mission, please contact Marty Cooper at mcooper@jewishallianceri. org or call 401.421.4111, ext. 171. Jeffrey Padwa is the Chair of the CRC Congressional Delegation Breakfast. He is the City Solicitor for the City of Providence.
seniors
thejewishvoice.org
January 31, 2014 |
29
aunt edith The guardian of the Fink family’s past I took my aunt Edith pretty much for granted while she lived just a few houses uphill from ours. We both eventually inherited our family home-
SKETCHBOOK mIKE FINK
steads and stayed put there. When I was but a boy, Edith would babysit me. Throughout the war years, she would escort me to patriotic civic events, pledging me to promise not to tell her mother that she smoked those endless Chesterfields she so much enjoyed. Edith had a quietly attractive friend in her schooldays and beyond, but she herself was, at least on the outside, an extrovert, even a clown, using her social skills to disguise her insecurities, as we all do. “I was intimidated, both by my mother’s glamour, and also by my kid brother’s incredible artistic talent. I couldn’t compete with that, so I gathered seashells on the beach and strung necklaces. That was the limit of my craftsmanship and my vanity.” And yet, Edith was able to use her imaginative instincts with beads and bangles to get through the depression and the duration, enter the costume jewelry industry and thus save her birthplace from bankruptcy and her family from failing and from falling from grace and good. Among my imprinted impressions of my father’s halfsister, who was also my mother’s cousin, there was the era of my cub-scout training in how to tie a proper knot with
a piece of rope. “Can you come up and teach me how to do that? I can translate the hemp into gold and make us both a fortune!” And I did, and she did. She rose to become a major fi gure in the economy of the factories that sent our designs around the world. Of course, Edith gave me an “ident i f ic at ion bracelet” and a signet ring for my bar mitzvah. I confess I have lost them or perhaps given them away to some pretty girl somewhere. Anyway, they don’t exist as such except in my fond and grateful memory. I came home from college to attend her wedding – was it at the Narragansett or the Biltmore Hotel? – and also to visit the new couple’s apartment. Within a year, they were back on Summit at the corner of Creston, where they renovated the parlor and the garden. I might stop by at dawn to munch a muffi n and hitch a ride to my RISD office with Edith, who had returned to her studio world – again to make ends meet. We had ever so slightly drifted apart during my Yale days. I think she thought I had lost touch with her world, its concerns and its borders of thought. I was reaching and stretching, but she found me sophomoric. Our relatives are usually right about us. We need a hiatus be-
fore we reconnect. Edith became, in time, the very memory and guardian of our family’s past. We met Teresa Wright of “The Best Years of Our Lives” at Rhode
Edith suggested I could translate all the disagreements among the cigarette smoke and the littered ashtrays in her kitchen and by her hearth. She had played her roles (sometimes in Noel Coward comedies) at the Barker temple to the dramatic arts on Benefit Street; it was time for me to play my part – to pick up my pen and sketch her, or our, world in words. When Edith passed away, her son Joel brought downhill to me the photographs from their attic and a few tokens of the era before his own birth and boyhood. I rediscovered my aunt among her papers. The great American novel exists personally within the postcards and photos of each of us. It depends upon the local newspapers to publish such chronicles for whoever may make the most of the glimpse into the glass of collective COURTESY PHOTO | MIKE FINK history. Edith was a hard Island College. We wended our way to Oakland Beach on worker and a seeker of fame, a shared pilgrimage to sum- fortune and friendship whermers long ago but never far ever they might be. Aren’t we away. She had always wanted all? me to imitate the scriptwriters a postscRipt: Next door of the Hollywood of yore, when to her abode, there was a twin siblings would argue about the residence, and once upon a claims of necessity versus art, time her aunt and cousins but with the Jewish content lived there, until the ladies of disguised and even the talents the manors quarreled, and the and businesses hidden. Not the taxes and expenses of the pemovie industry but Carnegie riod split the compound. Aunt Hall, not Rumanian immi- Becky was my father’s aunt, grants but Italians standing in my own great-aunt. She had for the Jews.
The governor makes a visit
RI lEGISlATIVE PRESS BUREAU
Neal Drobnis, Jewish Family Service Coordinator, (standing right) introduced Governor Lincoln Chaffee (standing center) to seniors at a Kosher lunch on January 24.
survived the pogroms of tsarist, imperial Russia and comforted herself with a safe and proud American identity, at her card parties, with a glass
“Our relatives are usually right about us.” of good whiskey, legal or not, and with her four children and, later, numerous grandchildren. “Are you related to them?” people sometimes asked me. Becky had a joyous quality that didn’t seem quite to fit the more introverted concerns, anxieties and affectations of the Finks. “Yes, indeed,” I would answer with a teenage smirk of pride. In the late years, I made a fi lm about the World War II veterans from our family, and I interviewed Aunt Becky at the Home for the Aged. She was by then blind, but her thick white hair and her accent and her lively chatter and her warm greeting endeared her to me, as always. My job in life ... is to remember … and to celebrate! MiKe fiNK teaches at RISD and can be reached at mfi nk33@ aol.com.
Cranston seniors Cranston Seniors Guild will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 1:00 p.m. at Phyllis Siperstein Tamarisk Assisted Living, 3 Shalom Dr., Warwick. The entertainer will be musician Steve Burke. A raffle and refreshments will follow the meeting.
30 | January 31, 2014
community
The Jewish Voice
Photo Courtesy | Justin Jay Strauss
A man with a mission
By Geraldine Foster The armistice ending the Korean Conflict had been in place for two years when Justin “Jay” Strauss enlisted in the US Air Force in 1955. It was the era of the Cold War, a time of deep tension and mistrust between former allies. Jay Strauss successfully completed flight training in 1956 and was assigned to the Strategic Air Command’s MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. He became the pilot of a tanker plane tasked with midair refueling mainly B47 bombers, which carried nuclear weapons as part of a deterrent strategy. The missions required precision and formation flying. They could be peaceful or harrowing, depending on the weather. The experience taught him self-reliance, he said. On leaving the Air Force in 1958, Strauss, who had a degree in economics from University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, entered the family business, Eagle Cornice Company, founded by his grandfather Simon Strauss. “It was not as thrilling as flying missions in the air force,” he commented, “but more steady.” He was married, with a family to consider. His love for flying never abated. In time, Strauss was able to realize his dream of owning his own plane, a Beechcraft Bonanza, and flying to Europe (“call me Jay Lindberg”), South America, and across the United States. He has logged 12,000 hours of flying time and has received the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award by the Federal Aviation Administration. Not all of those hours were devoted to personal trips. While still growing his business, he did not have much time for joining organizations, but he did volunteer with Angel Flights, a national non-profit organization founded and led by pilots. An Angel Pilot brings patients,
free of charge, to clinics or hospitals for life-sustaining treatment. Although generally centered in New England, the flights have brought Strauss as far as Ohio or Wisconsin or the Carolinas. He also participates in the Veteran’s Air Lift Command that flies wounded veterans home or brings the family for a visit. “Many veterans prefer not to take a commercial airline due to their wounds, or perhaps their families cannot afford the fares,” Strauss stated. “Like with the Angel Flights, we give our time and our personal treasure. It is time and money well-spent.” At age 52 Strauss enrolled in the Harvard Graduate School of Business and earned an MBA. Each year the Harvard Business School Club of RI scheduled a visit to the Naval War College in Newport. “I was enthralled by the level of intellect at the lectures presented there,” he stated, and so began his participation in the non-profit Newport Naval War College Foundation, which provides financial support for lectures, symposia and research for which public funds are not available to meet the need for officers “educated in international security affairs”. Strauss has been frequently asked why he attends so many of the lectures at the War College. He replied, “Many lectures over the years have not been very positive toward Israel and Jews. I go so that when someone says something derogatory, I will raise my hand and speak out. I am not a bashful person. Often my wife Sandra comes with me. She gets nervous when I stand up because she does not know what will come out of my mouth. I come to bear witness for Israel, for the Jewish people and the military.” At one of these lectures, Strauss was introduced to the work of JINSA (Jewish Insti-
tute for National Security Affairs) by David Ganz, a retired Marine aviator and three-term president of the organization. The group’s emphasis on issues of security and defense partnerships involving the United States and Israel appealed to Strauss. JINSA has its detractors who feel it espouses right-wing positions. Strauss emphasized that the organization does not lobby; it is apolitical and non-partisan but does have a “think tank” component. It arranges training/learning visits to Israel by cadets in the U.S. military academies, chosen by the military. Of great importance to Strauss are the good deeds undertaken by JINSA at bases, mostly special ops, chosen by the military. They are geared for enlisted personnel below three stripes. As part of a delegation, Strauss visited one of these bases, Hurlbut Air Force Base in Fla. The services JINSA provided the soldiers and their families, he stated, are social and financial – interest-free loans, for example, at Christmas to buy presents. At a graduation ceremony, the base commander recounted all that JINSA had done for the base, explained the meaning of the acronym and asked the delegates to stand. “It was the first time I stood up in front of people most of whom were not familiar with Jews. They cheered us for about five minutes. I knew I was doing the right thing.” Jay Strauss is a past president of the RI Holocaust Education and Resource Center, member of the board of Miriam Hospital, recipient of the Harrison Award of Warwick Rotary, member of Temple Sinai and the Facilities Committee of the Jewish Alliance. GERALDINE FOSTER, past president of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association, has held many leadership roles in the community.
OBITUARIES
thejewishvoice.org
Ruth Eleanor “Ellie” Brown, 80 PENNSYLVANIA – Ruth Eleanor “Ellie” Brown died M o n d a y, January 27, at her home in Redstone Highlands, Murrysville, PA. Born in P r ov id e nc e , daughter of the late Robert and Ida “Irma” (Samuels) Brown. Prior to living in Pennsylvania, she had lived in Florida and, before that, New Jersey. She was a 1955 graduate of the former Pembroke College, now Brown University. She was an accomplished pianist who travelled extensively and loved animals, bridge and ice skating. She was the mother of Robert R. Brown of Export, PA, Marjorie A. Brown of Blue Bell, PA, and Jacqueline Wolpert and her husband Seth of Harrisburg, PA.; sister of the late Stephen M. Brown. She was a grandmother of six. Contributions may be made to Providence Animal Rescue League, 3 Elbow St., Providence, RI 02903.
Adell (Gross) Fine, 86 PROVIDENCE – Adell (Gross) Fine died January 23. She was the wife of Seymour Fine, Ph.D, for 66 years. Born in New York City, a daughter of the late Abraham Louis and Flora (Fisher) Gross, she had been a resident of New Jersey and Rhode Island. A graduate of New York University and the Wurzweiler School of Social Work, she was a school social worker in Upper Saddle River, N.J. for 20 years and then was a psychotherapist in Glen Rock, N.J. before retiring in 2001. She was a member of Temple Emanu-El. Besides her husband, she is survived by her children, Michael Fine, M.D. and his wife Carol Levitt, M.D., of Scituate,
R.I. and Paul Fine and his wife Amy Baker, Ph.D, of Teaneck, N.J.; and her grandchildren Gabriel, Raisa, Alianna and Zoe. She was the sister of the late Nora Jacobson, Jewel Greenberger and Mervin Gross. Burial was in Lincoln Park Cemetery, Warwick. Contributions may be made to Miriam Hospital, 164 Summit Ave., Providence, RI 02906 or Crossroads, 160 Broad St., Providence, RI 02903.
Anita (Merson) Fine, 83 PAWTUCKET – Anita (Merson) Fine died January 15. She was the wife of Allan “Mike” Fine for 62 years. Born in Brookline, the daughter of the late Leon and Yettie (Dolberg) Merson, she had been a resident of Pawtucket for 62 years. She was a graduate of The University of Rhode Island and received her master’s degree in history from Rhode Island College. She worked for Southern New England Telephone for ten years. She was a member of Temple Beth-El and its Sisterhood and was a member of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association. She did volunteer work at Butler Hospital and was a past president of its Women’s Auxiliary. Besides her husband, she is survived by her children, Stuart Fine and his wife Amy of Pound Ridge, N.Y. and Jeffrey Fine and his wife Terri of St. Louis MO.; her grandchildren, Emily, Janey, Jonathan and Alexander. Burial was in Sons of Israel & David Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Miriam Hospital, 164 Summit Ave., Providence, RI 02906.
Stanley R. Graham, 92 CRANSTON – Stanley R. Graham, died January 21. He was the husband of the late Eleanor (Galkin) Graham, and long-time companion of
Roxanne S. Stern. Born in New York City, he was the son of Albert and Grace (Feigenbaum) Grossman. He was a member of Hamilton House in Providence, the Sierra Club, and The Nature Conservancy. Besides his companion, he is survived by his children, Glenn Graham and his wife Bonnie of Pacifica, Calif., Jeffrey Graham of Providence, and Sharon Graham and her husband Daniel Goldstein of San Diego, Calif.; and his grandchildren Garrett and Jessie. Burial was in Sinai Memorial Park. Contributions may be made to Sierra Club, 42 Rice St., Providence, RI 02907.
Dr. Milton W. Hamolsky, 92 PROVIDENCE – Dr. Milton W. Hamolsky died on January 18. He was the husband of 34 years to Sandra (Rosman) H a m o l s k y, and the husband of the late Virginia (Maglin) Hamolsky. Born in Lynn, MA, he was a son of the late Israel and Sophie (Cremer) Hamolsky. A graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Medical School, class of 1946, he was an accomplished physician. He was an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School, and while serving as a physician at Beth Israel Medical Center he discovered the T3 Uptake Thyroid Test. Dr. Hamolsky was the first full-time PhysicianIn-Chief of Medicine at Rhode Island Hospital and a Professor of Medical Science at Brown University, where he helped develop the Brown University Medical School. He was the first Chief Administrative Officer of the Board of Medical Licensure & Discipline for the
State of Rhode Island. He continued to be an active board member of Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island and beloved by his colleagues, he has numerous awards within the medical community named in his honor. He was a member of many medical associations and Temple Beth-El. Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, Deborah Hamolsky and her spouse, Toby Dyner of San Francisco; David J. Hamolsky, and his spouse Tina L. of Rindge, N.H.; Joy Scharfman and her spouse, Stewart of Roslyn, N.Y., and Robin Folk and her spouse, Ron of Long Beach, N.Y.; his siblings, Dorothy Stern of Chattanooga, TN, and Sidney Hamolsky of Portland, OR; and his grandchildren, Adam, Johnathan, Johanna, Rachel, Ginny and Sydney. He was the father of the late John S. Hamolsky and grandfather of the late Spenser Scharfman. Burial was in Sons of Israel & David Cemetery. Contributions in his memory may be made to Home & Hospice Care of RI or to the Dr. Milton Hamolsky Lectureship Fund.
Susan R. (Gollis) McKay, 71 SOU T H DA RT MOU T H, MASS. – Susan R. (Gollis) McKay died January 16. She was the wife of the late Ronald McKay. Born in New Bedford, a daughter of the late Milton and Shirley (Friedlander) Gollis, she had lived in the New Bedford area her entire life. She was a graduate of Boston University. She is survived by her children, Elizabeth Ehrenberg of Sharon, Lawrence Abrams and his wife Christy of Wrentham, and Pamela Burnham and her husband Daniel of Mansfield; her sister Judy Rosen of Bluffton, SC; and her
January 31, 2014 |
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grandchildren David, Rachel, Scott, Norah, Alexandra and Andrew. Burial was at Plainville Cemetery, New Bedford. Contributions may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave., Boston, MA 02215.
Eleanor (Rosenblum) Roth, 84 NORTH DARTMOUTH, MASS. – Eleanor (Rosenblum) Roth, died January 9. She was the wife of Bernard Norman Roth and the mother of Jeffrey David Roth, M.D., of Chicago, Laurie (Roth) Bennett, J.D., of St. Louis, and Susan (Roth) Rose of Cranston. She was the grandmother of Isaac, Hannah and Michael Roth, Kurt and Melissa Bennett, and Michael and Rebecca Rose. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., she was a graduate of Albany State Teachers College. She lived in a number of locations, including the Republic of Singapore, Xi’an, China, Santa Rosa, Calif., but always came back to North Dartmouth, Mass., where she resided since 1971. She was a published author. Her most recent novel, Rainbow Dust, was published in 2005. She has a list of fiction and non-fiction publications. She was an active member of Tifereth Israel Congregation in New Bedford, Mass. She was a tutor at Our Sisters School in New Bedford, and had taught English at a number of colleges, including in Xi’an, China. She shared a passion for travel with her husband and together, they circumnavigated the planet twice. Her great love of the outdoors included a lifelong zest for skiing, swimming and bicycling. Her son-in-law recently introduced her to kayaking. OBITUARIES | 32
32 | January 31, 2014
COMMUNITY | OBITUARIES
The Jewish Voice
Taglit-Birthright Israel – a once-in-a-lifetime experience By Matan Graff mgraf@jewishallianceri.org Just a few weeks ago, I had the privilege to go to Israel on an amazing program called Taglit-Birthright Israel, a free ten-day trip to Israel for Jewish young adults, ages 18 to 26. I was very excited to go. It was my first time flying back home not only to visit my friends and family, but also to show Israel to a group of Americans who hadn’t seen it before. Here in Rhode Island my job is to “bring” Israel to the community, but during this trip, it was the other way around. I knew that it was not going to be a walk in the park.
With a full suitcase (packed with gifts for my family, of course), I took the train to Newark airport and waited there for my group. It consisted of 40 Americans ranging in age from 22 to 26 years old, who arrive from different parts of the country (my trip was a post college trip). I could see their excitement, their enthusiasm and their eagerness to go on this trip. We checked everyone in and, after a three-hour delay and many questions, we finally took off. At Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, we were welcomed by our seven Israeli participants. They joined our group for the ten
days of the trip. Together, we created a very cohesive group of individuals and we were ready to go and explore Israel together. In just a few hours, we became one big family. It was amazing to see how people who had just met a few days ago in the airport managed to become so close. We did explore. We didn’t miss a spot and we drove all over Israel. (The high gas prices didn’t stop us.) We visited the cities, the landmarks and the important and sacred places. We met the people and tried the food. The participants experienced everything through their eyes, their stomachs and their
hearts. And I had a great time watching them and experiencing it all with them. The trip had such a great impact on the group. I could see the effect of this experience on them just by their smiles, laughs and tears. When we went to the airport at the end of the trip, I couldn’t believe that this was the same I group I met in New York just ten days prior. “Taglit” means “discovery” in Hebrew and that, in a word, is the goal of the trip – discovery of Israel and its people, discovery of one’s own personal connection to Jewish values and tradition, and discovery of the ways in which one can be a part of the larger Jewish community. And we discovered. For the participants, seeing Israel for
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the first time was an emotional, deep experience that they will never forget. Words cannot express many of the moments during those ten days that made me so proud to be part of this amazing trip. I encourage everyone who is eligible to sign up for this trip. You will not regret it. I can promise you that just like for me and my group, this will be once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. To learn more about eligibility, visit birthrightisrael.com or contact Elanah Chassen at echassen@jewishallianceri. org. Registration for the summer starts on Feb. 19. Matan Graff is the Israeli Shaliach (Emissary) at the Jewish Alliance.
OBITUARIES
Burial was at Plainville Cemetery. Contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Tifereth Israel Congregation, or the Hadassah Medical Organization.
Harriet M. Sachs, 74 SMITHFIELD – Harriet M. Sachs died January 16. Born in Staten Island, N.Y., the daughter of the late Benjamin and Rebecca (Perlman) Sachs, she had been living in R.I. for 60 years. She is survived by her children, Sheri Snell-Goold of Foxboro and Marci Snell of Narragansett; her sisters, Phyllis Sachs of Warwick and Susan Sachs of Wakefield and her grandchildren, Brandon, Briana and Rebecca. Burial was at Lincoln Park Cemetery, Warwick. Contributions may be made to the RI ASPCA.
Esther L. Swartz, 92 WARWICK – Esther L. Swartz died Tuesday, Jan. 14 at Tamarisk. She was the wife of the late Charles Swartz. Born in
Fall River, Mass., a daughter of the late Harry and Mary (Katz) Levine, she was a graduate of B. M. C. Durfee High School in Fall River. She had lived in East Providence for 35 years, previously living in Providence. She was a volunteer at the former Jewish Home for the Aged, Jewish Community Center of R.I., and Meals on Wheels. She was a member of Temple Emanu-El in Providence, a board member and volunteer for the National Council of Jewish Women, and was a life member of Hadassah. She was a board member and volunteer for the Friends of the East Providence Public Library. She was the mother of Carol Shore and her husband, Stephen, of Ardmore, PA. and Nancy Horowitz and her husband, Richard, of Potomac, MD.; she was the sister of the late Frieda Swartz and Betty Fink. She was the grandmother of five, and great-grandmother of five. Contributions in may be made to Hadassah, 122 Nanci Karen Drive, Warwick, RI 02886.
WE ARE READ
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Check one off our bucket list!
Marilyn Greenberg
Richard & Marilyn Greenberg of Narragansett, RI, and Deerfield Beach, FL took a wonderful 20 day adventure through Australia and New Zealand. This stop was at Mudbrick Vineyard on Waiheke Island, New Zealand.
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CoMMUniTY
aWaReNess
AwarenessMonth. Goldin’s e-book, available at amazon.com, is for children. It’s about a boy who doesn’t let his blindness impede his enjoyment of life. Wishing to do something for his mother in addition to chores, Hershel bakes beautiful hamantaschen to raise money for the family at Purim. In addition to the books, educators can take advantage of a special curriculum. PJ Library and the Jewish Special Education International Consortium encourage those who are interested to contact Christensen at Shelly@inclusioninnovations.com, to ask for the curriculum, which they can receive at no charge, as well as for the fi les that would allow them to display the JDAM logo. Prefer to contemplate JDAM’s goals and motivate like-minded people via the internet and social media? Consider joining @JewishSpecialEd Twitter chat on February 13 at 9:00 p.m. with #JDAMreads14 to discuss “Hope will Find You,” becoming a JDAM blogger, and making a 60-second video on what inclusion means to you and posting it to YouTube with #JDAM14. Past December, the Union for Reform Judaism, along with the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, joined with the Ruderman Family Foundation to launch the Ruderman Synagogue Inclusion Initiative. Its intention is to promote awareness with regards to inclusion of people with disabilities within Jewish communities. The movement’s nearly 900 synagogues were invited to take part in the Active Learning Network, a way to share knowledge. Curious to know how our local synagogues are embracing the inclusion efforts, the Voice heard from Rabbi Elan Babchuck of Temple Emanu-El. He shared that, in addition to the Inclusion Committee, which has been functioning at the synagogue for several years, Temple Emanu-El featured
special programming, such as a presentation by Tom FieldsMeyer, in honor of last year’s JDAM. Moreover, Temple Emanu-
El practices inclusion by offering a service for families who would prefer to pray in a more intimate and welcoming setting. Koleinu (Our Voice) entails singing, movement, interactive storytelling, laughter and participation within a physically comfortable environment that includes bean bags and colorful educational posters. Babchuck says, “After having led a similar service in Los Angeles for a number of years, I worked with our pas-
“Because someone has a disability doesn’t mean that he/she is less valuable to the community.” sionate committee to tailor the service to our community. So far, it has been nothing short of awe-inspiring!” This monthly Saturdaymorning service takes place from 10:30 a.m. until noon, with the next Shabbat celebration on February 15. Marilyn Katz, a former special education teacher who volunteers at the Jewish Community Day School, describes the effort:
The Jewish voice “Koleinu is based on the practice of reverse mainstreaming. Rather than ‘throwing’ youth into uncomfortable situations for which they are ill-prepared, reverse mainstreaming seeks to coach and
groom youth with disabilities for socialization by providing a more personalized activity within a less distracting, less i nt i m idat i ng setting. It also allows youth without disabilities to join the group and become comfortable interacting with everyone.” Another step the synagogue has taken is to create a structure in which their Purim Spiel could feature children of all abilities. Referring to the work involved in hiring and training teen mentors, Babchuck calls the collaboration of Dr. Barry Prizant, Dr. David Kadmon, Eliza Beringhause, and Wendy GarfLipp “an absolute success!” Wendy Garf-Lipp, Spiel Director, shared that, even though Purim Spiel has always been welcoming to all, the synagogue had recognized that some might need additional support for full participa-
tion and leveraged funding to create a program that assigns children mentors who work with them during rehearsals, stand with them on stage, help them with choreography and movement and, of course, celebrate their achievements. Garf-Lipp says, “Spiel has never been about high-level drama production. Spiel has always been about community building and community support. For the few months that we work together, we create an intense chevra and it seemed a natural step to set up some conditions that makes participation available to all.” Temple Emanu-El’s efforts are aimed in the right direction. No matter how challenging, it’s crucial to include
children with diverse learning needs in community life, as well as in Jewish schools. In “Inclusion: In All of OUR Hands,” Dr. Alan Oliff and Nancy Kriegel write, “Research has shown that students with learning challenges do well when integrated in schools and classes with typically developing peers.” The Voice heard from Miriam Esther Weiner, Principal at Providence Hebrew Day School, on how the institution practices inclusion. Weiner shared that PHDS
students are sensitized to differences and disabilities from a young age. They are exposed to literature about disabled children, taught that “fair is not equal” (students with low muscle tone type test answers) and offered a chance to volunteer to help the parents of a boy with autism (an initiative of the New England Academy of Torah’s Chesed Squad). In addition, students learn about adaptations that people with disabilities in one of the five senses use to compensate, as well as the importance of behaving appropriately toward people with disabilities from a Torah perspective. Last October, PHDS middle school and high school students attended a workshop on the learning challenges of their peers by Batya Jacob, Educational Director of the International Jewish Resource Center for Inclusion and Special Education (See ‘Special Needs Sensitizing” from the Nov. 7, 2013, issue of the Voice). Weiner calls the workshop “truly amazing!” Currently, PHDS is working with Lawrence Katz, Director of Jewish Learning at the Jewish Alliance, to present Jacobs’ workshops for parents and teachers in late March. This service is the latest offering of the Jewish Alliance that has hosted multiple workshops, including one by Kathy Snow of Disability Is Natural. Also, the Jewish Alliance has co-hosted a program with Temple Emanu-El; Elaine Hall of “Autism: The Musical” fame held panel discussions based on videos such as “Including Samuel” and “Autistic License.” Katz emphasizes that those interested in any books or videos mentioned above may borrow them from the Library of the Jewish Alliance. Besides the ones in this article, the library offers dozens of sources that illuminate the issues, concerns and best practices related to people with disabilities. Begin your journey to unity through collaboration and effort to eradicate the largest obstacle to inclusion – a closed mindset.
SIMCHAS
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birth – Jacob Ian, son of Lauren and Bradley Tobin of Hastings on the Hudson, NY, was born on December 4, 2013. Jacob is the grandson of Judy and Norman Tobin of Warwick, R.I., and Ada and Norman Dolch of Brooklyn, N.Y. Jacob is named after his maternal and paternal great grandparents.
FOUR GENERATIONS – (photo above), Monika Curnett (right) of Cranston with her son Ross Curnett, left, and her mother Jolanthe Szynkarski, center, holding great grandson Chase Livingston Curnett who was born on January 7.
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Share your joyful events and happenings by submitting them for publication in The Jewish Voice Email to: editor@jewishallianceri.org or mail to: The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, R.I. 02906
birth – (photo at right), Eleanor Ivy Schrag was born to David and Kristina Schrag of Providence on June 3, 2013. Eleanor is the granddaughter of Philip G. Schrag and Lisa Lerman of Bethesda, MD; the late Emily S. Fenichel and Bob Fenichel of West Vancouver, BC; Lori and Xander Pack of Casselberry, FL; and the late Richard J. Black. She joins big brother Thomas Reed, age 8.
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