June 5, 2015

Volume XXi, issue Xii | www.thejewishvoice.org Serving Rhode island and Southeastern massachusetts

FATHER’S DAY

18 Sivan 5775 | June 5, 2015

celebration and honors for ncJW

PHDS students count the ways Celebrating dads on Father’s Day

In honor of Father’s Day, Providence Hebrew Day School’s Principal, Miriam Esther Weiner, along with Mrs. Beth Berman, Mrs. Ilana Weissmann and Rabbi Yaakov Zimmerman, asked students to share with our readers what they love about their dads. The kids complied.

Here are some of their thoughts.

bY frAN ostENdorf fostendorf@jewishallianceri.org PROVIDENCE – A May 20 gathering marked the sendoff for the Rhode Island section of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW).

The room at Laurelmead was crowded to honor Ellie Elbaum and Nan Levine, the co-presidents and longtime volunteers who faced the difficult decision to recommend that the section NCJW | 17

lawsuit unfolding in congregational dispute A high-profile dispute in the Rhode Island and New York Jewish communities went to trial here Monday.

Opening arguments were heard in U.S. District Court in Providence before Judge John McConnell in a lawsuit pitting Newport’s Congregation Jeshuat Israel and Congregation Shearith Israel of New York.

The dispute began in 2012 when Jeshuat Israel, which worships at Touro Synagogue, agreed to sell a set of rimonim dating to the 18th century to Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. As reported at the time, the proceeds from the $7.4 million sale were used to create LAWsUit | 8

From the fifth grade: Chaim Golden

I like my father. I like him because I can learn with him and become smarter. I also appreciate it when he wakes me up many times to go to prayers. My father helps people with their taxes. He also helps me with my homework and takes me on trips. It is nice to be around him. My father is really, really nice.

Yisroel Mordechai Karp

I like my father. I like to learn and play with him. It is very enjoyable to be with him. My father brings me to baseball games. He also does outreach programs for people who want to find their Jewish roots. I admire him for this. My father is the greatest guy on Earth! photo | phDs

dAds | 15

PHDS Pre-K students with Lynn Jakubowicz and Rabbi Peretz Scheinerman.

Block island congregation celebrates its 28th birthday A proud history on the island

bY GLoriA s. rEdLiCH In 1980, a handful of Jewish residents of Block Island came together to consider a shared idea: hold regular Shabbat and High Holy Day services. They eventually did this throughout the summer months. This fi rst simple step eventually led the group, which had grown to a dozen or so participants, to formalize their common vision to create a temple on the island.

Against all odds, their dream became a reality, and the Congregation Sons and Daughters of Ruth was born, and later incorporated in 1987.

The founders had no building. As current vice president Shirley Kessler recalls, summer resident “Marvin Salzburg offered a barn on his land” – off in a remote part of the island.

All they had were two Torahs and the desire to formalize their Jewish presence within the community. photo | aBRaMs | DRapER FaMilY

bLoCk isLANd | 4

Seth Draper, Justin Abrams, Rita Draper and Ross Draper.

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The Jewish Voice

Third-graders study connections

INSIDE Business 20-21, 25 Calendar 10 Classified 10 Community 2-6, 13-14, 17-19, 23-24 D’var Torah 7 Father’s Day 15-16 Food 12 Nation 7, 26 Obituaries 22-23 Opinion 8-9 Seniors 25 Simchas | We Are Read 27

T

emple Beth-El third grade religious school students worked on a project with their parents during an open house this spring. Throughout the year, the students studied the book “Partner with God,” Discovering God in our Everyday Life.

According to their teacher Nitza Atali, this is the beginning of a journey that lasts until 12th grade. The children learn about Jewish heritage customs and obligations and how everything is connected to Torah.

Third-graders display their projects constructed with a little help from their parents.

THIS ISSUE’S QUOTABLE QUOTE “Sometimes the voice of God has to come to us from outside the chain of command.” photos | Nitza Atali

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June 5, 2015 |

3

A day trip to Jerusalem bY tobY koritskY Can you go to Jerusalem just for the day? That is exactly what the students and parents at Temple Sinai Religious School did by celebrating “Jerusalem Day” on May 17.

Students and parents began with an El Al fl ight and safety video. They then picked up their passports and went to Jerusalem. They visited sites such as the Kotel, the Chagall windows at Hadassah Hospital and the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit and museum. They wrote on parchment like scribes, created art to represent Israel including

sand art, hamsas and a mizrach.

Gilor Meshulam, the community Israeli shaliach (emissary), gave everyone a special treat, showing them how to cook pita bread on an outside oven.

In addition, everyone learned about the history of Jerusalem and found lots of interesting places on a map of Jerusalem.

The participants had fun and gained a new appreciation for Jerusalem as a city that is both ancient and modern. tobY koritskY is director of education at Temple Sinai.

Gilor Meshulam cooks with the students.

Taylor Diefenbach.

Eli Land, Chase Schulte and Gabe Cohen.

photos | tEMplE siNai

2015-2016 Guide To Jewish Living Be part of the only publication that reaches more than 20,000 Jewish readers in Southern New England for a full year.

This Guide will be mailed to Jewish households in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts with our September 18, 2015 issue of The Jewish Voice, the producer of this informative handbook.

Reservation Deadline: August 7, 2015 | Materials Due: August 21, 2015 Publication Date: September 18, 2015 Back cover glossy stock, 4-color .................... $1475 Inside front or back cover, 4-color ............... $1325 Full page 4-color glossy ..................................... $1010 Full page 4-color .................................................... $825 Full page b&w .......................................................... $790 Half page 4-color glossy .................................... $510 Half page b&w vertical or horizontal ......... $310 Strip 3x3 b&w ........................................................... $180

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4 | June 5, 2015

COMMUNITY

Meet the summer intern Israel Finegold is the new intern this summer at the Jewish Voice. He will be writing feature stories and other articles for the paper. Finegold is interested in the field of journalism because he has always been a curious person with a passion for learning new information.

He hopes to bring his skills in communication and helpful nature to the position. But, he also hopes to combine these skills to determine whether journalism is the right field for him. He is currently a student at the New England Rabbinical College.

Finegold also studies organizational communication at Providence College. He will graduate from Providence College in December 2015. After graduation, he plans to pursue a Master of Health Care Management at Stevenson University in Baltimore, Maryland.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics within the United States Department of Labor, jobs in health care management are supposed to grow 22 percent between the years of 2010 and 2020.

With his background in communication, degree in Health Care Management and passion for helping others, Finegold believes he will have a wide range of job opportunities. These options will allow him to return to Israel and make a true impact on the lives of others through his work.

Finegold’s parents moved back to the United States from Israel when he was 13 years old and he attended high school in

The Jewish Voice

from page 1

block island

The original Torah, for which a small ark was built, came to them through late member Haida Ginsberg, who lived on the island six months a year. Later, the Abrams/ Draper family (Justin and the late Joan Abrams and their children) offered the congregation a Torah belonging to their family. They have continued to be the caretakers of the Torah.

Without a building to call their own, members invested their moveable Torahs with a special and growing attachment as they literally became both the physical and spiritual foundation of the new “Temple.”

Israel Finegold Baltimore. After high school graduation, he studied for a year at Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavna in Israel. Upon his return, he began studying at the New England Rabbinical College while also taking night classes at Providence College. Although this was a heavy workload, he is extremely grateful for his college education and knows that his experiences will enable him to improve the lives of others which is worth every late night of studying. He is excited about his new position and hopes to contribute as much as possible to The Jewish Voice.

Editor’s Note: Interns are asked to write an introductory article when they start working at The Jewish Voice. This is Israel Finegold’s article.

Sources of historical memory

Serving as its spiritual leader from the Congregation’s inception, Elliot Taubman was present at the earliest meetings and willingly shares his memories of the temple’s origins. Over the years, he began sharing leadership responsibilities with Richard Weisbroat, with whom he has alternated in conducting Shabbat services. The two collaborate for the High Holy Days.

Taubman says, “The first service on the island (as far as I know) was [held] in 1980 for Rosh Hashanah. Rita [Abrams] Draper knew my background as a trained cantor and talked me into doing a service.” He adds, “We met thereafter at various places but mainly at Haida’s … until Father Randall [of St. Andrew Church] offered the use of the Parish Center on an ongoing basis.”

Recalling that there were nine people present at that service, Taubman notes they included Draper, Kessler, himself, his wife Jennifer Taubman, his mother Miriam Taubman and their daughter Rebekka Kai Taubman.

Kessler, too, has early recollections. She says, “I recall a meeting at Haida’s house with a family called the Martins – he was a mathematician – and with Jack and Esta Gray, an early island family. I also remember having Passover Seders at the Harbor Baptist Church.”

Of those present during another founding meeting in the mid 1980s, only a few counted themselves among the fulltime residents. Others lived on the island for short periods of the year. Still others – including my husband and me – were seasonal visitors spending just a few weeks and as many weekends as possible on the island.

We all were thrilled to discover plans afoot to incorporate the congregation.

Roots on the island

Our personal history with Block Island had its roots years earlier when we were a dating couple and took a day trip to the island. Leaving on a ferry from India Point in Providence, we spent four hours sailing out and four back, with just two left for exploring.

However, that was enough for the seeds of love to be planted irrevocably, drawing us back again and again after we were married – first to spend

weekends at a Victorian hotel, later to stay a week or two in a summer rental.

By the time we decided to settle on the island permanently, the congregation had been incorporated and had grown to include a hundred or so members – mostly drawn from summer visitors. The presence of the Congregation became the key for us: we needed to have a Congregation to belong to if we were to make the island our home – which we have for the last 21 years.

A seasonal temple

Congregation Sons and Daughters of Ruth is still predominantly a seasonal temple though the 20 or so full-time or six-month residents of the island attempt to keep holiday and Shabbat services going throughout the year. Membership dues are $18 for an individual and $36 for a family.

Friday evening services for summer 2015 will begin on June 19 at 8 p.m. at the St Andrew Parish Center on Spring Street.

In celebration of the congregation’s birthday, a series of special events is being planned; details and dates to be announced.

This year’s High Holy Day schedule is not yet finalized.

For more information on the congregation, call Shirley Kessler at 401-466-5486 or Elliot Taubman at 401-466-2861.

GLORIA REDLICH is a fulltime Block Island resident who can be reached at gloryb311@ gmail.com.

Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund members faced with hard decisions

BY JENNIFER ZWIRN jzwirn@jewishallianceri.org The Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund held its annual meeting on May 19 to determine this year’s grant recipients. As they do every year, the WAEF members in attendance had some difficult decisions to make as the 15 proposals received totaled more than $36,000 in requests.

With only $8,000 available to allocate, some very worthwhile programs remain unfunded.

The eight programs that will

receive grants this year are compelling and cutting-edge initiatives that members of the Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund believe will provide lasting impact and social change for women and girls throughout Rhode Island and Israel.

Co-chair Deb Skolnick Einhorn said, “This year’s grant awards are tightly connected to our mission, which is a very exciting evolution as we grow financially through and with our objectives.”

The Jewish Federation Foundation holds the community’s

$53 million endowment assets including the assets of the Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund. As of June 30, 2014, the fund’s value was $156,210.70.

Members seek to grow the fund through recruiting new members and encouraging membership renewals every year.

As a result, over the last several years, the Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund membership has been able to allocate the fund’s interest via a request for proposals process each spring, and has sought proposals for innovative programs and services

Advertising DEPARTMENT Tricia Stearly tstearly@jewishallianceri.org 401-421-4111, ext. 160 EDITOR Fran Ostendorf CONTRIBUTING WRITER Irina Missiuro Editorial Consultants Irina Missiuro | Judith Romney Wegner DESIGN & LAYOUT Leah Camara intern Israel Finegold

Karen Borger ksborger@gmail.com 401-529-2538 VOICE ADVISORY GROUP Elanah Chassen, Melanie Coon, Douglas Emanuel, Stacy Emanuel, Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser, John Landry, Toby London, Mindy Stone COLUMNISTS Michael Fink, Rabbi James Rosenberg and Daniel Stieglitz

that benefit Jewish women and girls and have the potential for long-term impact. Educational, civic, cultural, religious and inter-group programs are considered, as well as services in the health and social service fields.

Locally, projects receiving awards include Camp JORI’s female socio-developmental counselor training, Providence Community Kollel’s mission to Israel and the Jewish Community Day School’s female student support group to counteract bullying and peer pressure.

Overseas awards include Latet

THE JEWISH VOICE (ISSN number 15392104, USPS #465-710) is published bi-weekly, except in July, when it does not publish.

PERIODICALS Postage paid at Providence, R.I. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

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 MEMBER of the Rhode Island Press Association

Atid’s microloans to encourage female entrepreneurial spirit and NITZA’s multi-risk mother and child group therapy programming.

Einhorn announced this will be her last year as co-chair.

Fellow co-chair Barbara Feldstein said, “We thank you, Deb. I thank you. Your hard work, dedication, and leadership have been very much appreciated.”

JENNIFER ZWIRN is in Grants and Philanthropy at the Jewish Alliance.

Copy Deadlines: All news releases, photographs, etc., must be received on the Wednesday two weeks prior to publication. Submissions may be sent to: editor@jewishallianceri.org.

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

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.

COMMUNITY

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June 5, 2015 |

5

PHOTO | TRINE LUSTIG

PHOTOS | IRINA MISSIURO

Event co-chairs Marisa Garber and Marcia Hirsch.

Mindy Wachtenheim, Susan Leach DeBlasio, Jane Weitzman, Maybeth Lichaa and Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow.

Jews and shoes Jane Weitzman discusses the importance of philanthropy

BY IRINA MISSIURO imissiuro@jewishallianceri.org PROVIDENCE – On the evening of May 27, Temple Beth-El was filled with color, conversation and contributions to the 2015 Jewish Alliance Annual Campaign. Elegantly dressed and impeccably coiffed women in gorgeous shoes gathered to hear a moving speech, socialize with friends and sample some deli-

cious desserts. Many also looked forward to the opportunity to win a pair of Stuart Weitzman high heels donated by Mel & Me, Ltd. Mitzi Berkelhammer, vice chair of Philanthropy, kicked off the evening by thanking everyone for supporting the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and for strengthening the community. She shared that the 2015

?

Melanie Krikorian, above, won the shoes displayed by Mitzi Berkelhammer at right.

shoes | 23

Six tables

6 +

Six participants per table

+

One moderator per group

=

Active Discussion & Civil Dialog

CAN WE

TALK

ABOUT

ISRAEL

Presented by The Israel Task Force of the Community Relations Council

Tuesday, June 9 | 6:30 - 9:00pm Dwares JCC 401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence Join us for this interesting, informative, and stimulating experience.

The goal of “Can We Talk About Israel?” is to promote civil dialog and active discussion in the Rhode Island Jewish community about Israel-Arab issues and the role of the United States. The program is based on the successful “Israel Talks” program developed in New York by the Jewish Community Relations Council and a local pilot program held in February. Small, diverse groups are created and include a moderator. Each group will discuss important issues that will foster listening, dialog and understanding for the wide range of perspectives that we know exist in our Jewish community. The purpose of “Can We Talk About Israel?” is to help strengthen our community. This is done by encouraging civil discourse, mutual respect and tolerance for our diverse points of view; to help ensure that our love for Israel unites us more than divides us; and to build more community participation on Israel related issues.

Coffee and dessert will be served. There is no fee for admission.

Space is limited. We encourage you to reserve your place at the table early.

Please RSVP by Tuesday, June 2, 2015 by contacting Marty Cooper at 401.421.4111 ext. 171 or mcooper@jewishallianceri.org.

This is the first in a series of events co-sponsored by:

6 | June 5, 2015

communiTy

The Jewish Voice

Rabbi marc Jagolinzer: 40 years at Temple Shalom

bY JEffrEY mArtiN Rabbi Marc S. Jagolinzer’s 40 years as spiritual leader of Temple Shalom of Middletown will be celebrated the weekend of June 5-7.

Jagolinzer came to Temple Shalom, then a new Conservative congregation on Aquidneck Island, while a student rabbi at a yeshiva in Brooklyn.

He was invited to serve as a full-time rabbi to the 50 families of the congregation and moved to Newport in 1974 on his ordination. Shortly after he arrived, the congregation’s home in the converted Birdland Café on Thames Street in Newport was fi rebombed.

After three years meeting in the Ahavis Achim Synagogue on Central Street, the congregation completed construction on its own building and moved to its current home on Valley Road.

Jagolinzer has guided the small congregation through years of growth and change, making it a welcoming and embracing congregation. He met and married his wife Barbara shortly after coming to Temple Shalom, and their three children, Charles, Sarah and Jonathan grew up as part of the congregation family. Charles starting attending services when was 3 years old.

Much of the rabbi’s work has been dedicated to Jewish education and outreach to the community, promoting social

Rabbi Marc S. Jagolinzer’s causes and interfaith understanding. He has been on the faculty of the University of Rhode Island and Salve Regina University and has served as Jewish chaplain at Roger Williams University, Johnson and Wales University and to the Middletown Police Department.

At Salve Regina he teaches a course, “The Jewish Experience,” during which students attend a few Jewish services.

For most, it is their fi rst time inside a synagogue. “When you educate,” Jagolinzer says, “you can alleviate the ignorance and create an appreciation and a respect that’s very important.”

Reaching out to the community, Jewish and nonJewish, has been a central

part of Jagolinzer’s mission as a teacher. He is president of the Aquidneck Island Clergy Association, past convener of the Interfaith Leaders of Rhode Island, past secretary of the Newport Hospital and continues to serve on the hospital’s Ethics Committee.

He was the fi rst Jewish clergyperson to preach from the pulpit of the historic Trinity Episcopal Church in Newport and frequently exchanges and shares pulpits at interfaith services on the island. Next month, he will be the featured speaker at the annual interfaith service that is part of the Bristol Fourth of July Celebration.

This year his work with the Diocese of Rhode Island’s Child Protection Advisory Board as well as other contributions were underscored when he was awarded the prestigious Lumen Gentium Award as a Friend of the Diocese of Providence. He is the fi rst member of the Jewish faith to be recognized with this honor. In 2011, he was honored as one of the Men Who Make a Difference by the Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties.

The weekend will culminate with a dinner June 7. dr. JEffrEY b. mArtiN is a trustee and past president of Temple Shalom. He is professor of Theater at Roger Williams University.

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June 5, 2015 |

7

Who speaks for God?

BY RABBI JEFFREY GOLDWASSER On hot-button issues like samesex marriage, Americans are used to hearing religious and political leaders make public pronunciations that their position is the one that is endorsed

by God. These self-appointed spokesmen and spokeswomen for God are quick to cite verses and passages from scripture to back up their claims. However, careful readers of religious texts will notice that the claims are all based on interpretation. Different people can come to fair judgments on what the Bible suggests about current issues, but – despite what some might claim – the Bible does not make any clear and indisputable statements about the issues that grab today’s headlines.

So, how can anyone claim to speak for God?

It is an important religious issue. All religions must deal with the question of who has the authority to speak for God and tell us what God wants.

Who gets to play the prophet?

This week’s Torah portion (Beha’alotecha) takes on the issue of religious authority. It offers a rather surprising answer to the question.

In the Torah portion, God instructed Moses to select 70 elders of Israel to be present to see God appear in the Tent of Meeting. When God’s presence appeared, God took some of Moses’ spirit “put it upon the seventy elders.” The elders then began to “speak in ec-

stasy.” According to rabbinic tradition, they began to speak prophecies.

Two of the men who had been selected as elders, Eldad and Medad, did not go to the Tent of Meeting. Just at the moment when the other elders began to speak their prophecies, Eldad and Medad also spoke ecstatically among the Israelites in the camp.

Now, in modern times, when somebody begins speaking wild and ecstatic prophecies in a public place, they are likely to spend some time soon thereafter in the psychiatric unit of a local hospital (and we wish speedy healing for those with mental illnesses and blessing upon the professionals who care for them). In ancient times, it was not much different. Eldad and Medad caused alarm in the camp and, the Torah records, a youth ran out to tell Moses, “Eldad and Medad are playing the prophet in the camp!” Joshua, Moses’ first lieutenant, urged Moses to restrain the two men. Perhaps, Joshua feared that they were a threat to Moses’ authority as the sole spokesperson for God in the Israelite camp.

Moses, however, was not so alarmed. He asked, “Are you upset on my behalf? Who has the power to make all of the Lord’s people into prophets?

It is the Lord who has placed God’s spirit upon them!”

(Numbers 11:16-17; 25-29).

Moses made it clear that the authority to speak for God did not necessarily flow from him or from any human authority.

If we believe that God has the power to make the divine will known through human beings, God has the power to choose the agents of prophecy without regard to human institutions.

You may notice that there is an interesting ambiguity in the story. Why did Eldad and Medad not come to the Tent of Meeting if they were among the elders chosen by Moses?

Why does the text say that God took some of Moses’ spirit and “put it upon the seventy elders”? If Eldad and Medad were missing, should the text not have said only 68?

There is a beautiful midrash on this story that explains the seeming inconsistency and explains the merit by which Eldad and Medad were considered true prophets (Midrash Bamidbar Rabbah 15:19). According to the midrash, Moses had a problem with the number of elders that God had specified. There were 12 tribes and each tribe would want to have equal representation among the elders, but 70 is not equally divisible by 12. Two tribes would only have five representatives and the other 10 would have six.

In attempting to solve the numerical problem, Moses took the liberty of interpretation. He instituted a lottery in which 72 pieces of paper were placed in a jar. Seventy pieces had the word “elder” written on them; two pieces were left blank. Moses chose six representatives from each of the 12 tribes and asked each of the 72 to draw a piece of paper from

the jar. Only those who drew the word “elder” would be invited to join Moses in the Tent of Meeting.

Eldad and Medad were two of the 72 representatives chosen

by Moses, but they withdrew before the lottery was held because they did not believe themselves to be worthy of the honor. The midrash says that, because of their modesty, they were deemed to be the most worthy of all the elders.

God rewarded them with the greatest prophetic gift, allowing them to see events 40 years into the future.

According to the midrash, this is the reason Joshua asked Moses to silence them.

Eldad and Medad were the first to prophesize that Moses would die in the wilderness and that Joshua would be the one to bring the Israelites into the Land of Israel. It would not be the last time that someone tried to silence a prophet for telling the truth.

Who gets to speak for God? Who gets to play the prophet?

According to our tradition, it is not only those who have been elected and chosen by human beings. Sometimes, the voice of God has to come to us from outside the chain of command.

Sometimes, prophets need to be able to say things that are not so welcome by the powers that be. It takes leaders of true wisdom to listen to God’s voice coming from outside official channels. It takes leaders of true modesty to overcome the tendency to hear those words

as a threat to their authority.

In America today, there are plenty of people who have appointed themselves to be authorities and God’s mouthpieces. They use their offices and credentials to defend the comfortable and expected positions of old – regardless of the needs of our times and regardless of the people whose rights and whose dignity are damaged by their positions.

But there is a strong tradition in Judaism that says that the true prophetic voice is not the one that just reaffirms the status quo. The biblical prophets – men like Isaiah, Jeremiah and Zechariah – held up the cause of the oppressed over the objections of the religious authorities of their day.

The challenge today is to listen to the modest voices outside the chain of command that urge us to consider what is not popular and what is not expected. It is God, not human beings, who has the power to make each one of us into a prophet. Rather than depending on “traditional” and “time-honored” interpretations, it is our duty to listen to the ethical voice within ourselves to discover our own ability to hear the voice of God. It does not come from humanappointed politicians or preachers, but as a growing presence within our own lives.

RABBI JEFFREY GOLDWASSER is the spiritual leader of Temple Sinai in Cranston. He writes the blog “Reb Jeff” at www.rebjeff.com.

N.Y. rabbi who left prominent pulpit taking leadership post at 92nd Street Y NEW YORK (JTA) – A prominent Brooklyn rabbi who left the clergy last year has taken a leadership post at a major cultural and community center in New York.

Andy Bachman, the spiritual leader at Congregation Beth Elohim in the Park Slope neighborhood for more than eight years, announced on Monday that he will be the director of Jewish content and community ritual at the 92nd Street Y starting in July.

Bachman, 52, cited a desire to help New York City’s poor and fight for social justice causes when he announced in March 2014 that he was stepping down from Beth Elohim.

“When I made the decision to

Bachman wrote in a post on Facebook. “The broader questions of race, education and equity in our city and nation animate my commitments as never before.

“During the past year I have met with inspiring leaders, educators, activists, politicians, entrepreneurs, and daring investors,” he continued. “I have been so moved by these leaders’ mission-driven work in making the world a better place for all – from community school activ-

Andy Bachman step away from the pulpit last year, it was to pursue Jewish and social justice issues more broadly throughout our city,”

Candle Lighting Times

Greater Rhode Island June 5...............................7:56 June 12.............................8:00 June 19.............................8:03 June 26.............................8:04 July 3.................................8:04 July 10..............................8:01

ists in the Bronx and Harlem to criminal justice reformers in Red Hook and Crown Heights. I plan on deepening my commitment to these causes at home and very much look forward to sharing this journey with you.”

Bachman was a perennial presence on several “best rabbis” lists and doubled Beth Elo-

him’s membership to nearly 1,000 families. He attracted young Jews and boosted the synagogue’s reputation for pushing progressive causes.

Rachel Timoner, 44, formerly an associate rabbi at the Leo Baeck Temple in Los Angeles, will succeed Bachman at Beth Elohim starting this summer.

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OPINION

8 | June 5, 2015

Spring’s passages show how our lives can change Graduations, new jobs, major moves and life changes

I have witnessed a number of “rites of passage” in the last few weeks. Late spring is the season for such things.

First, my nephew walked down the hill, and then up the hill as he graduated from Brown, a graduation process steeped in tradition.

He majored in business and entrepreneurship, often a major where profits come first. But he editor wanted to begin his career fran helping othostendorf ers. Now he’s off to serve two years in the Peace Corps, not a new passage in our family, since both his parents did the same thing. He’ll be teaching English in West Africa. We wish him great experiences!

At The Voice, another spring means the start of an internship for a student interested in experiencing what we do and how we do it. Our latest intern has many interests in addition to communications.

And he’s a student at New England Rabbinical College. We hope that he stays interested in journalism after 10 weeks at The Voice. Read more about what Israel Finegold has to say about himself on page 4.

Finally, my sister has begun her trip home to the U.S. from a year in Israel. This has truly been a rite of passage for her, her husband and their 8-year-

from page 1

old daughter. They accompanied her to Jerusalem and experienced an unforgettable year of change. She made a mid-career decision to switch from banking and finance, go back to school and pursue her dream. Her first love had always been music, so she combined that with a strong Jewish identity, and she is now studying to be a cantor, giving a new meaning to her life.

All this reminds me that spring always brings opportunities. There are fresh faces, lots of events that make us think about our own passages and opportunities for new directions. Maybe that’s part of why this season brings so much optimism. There’s a whole summer ahead of warm weather and time for family and friends and chances to set our own new courses.

Which brings me to a totally different subject, but an important one nonetheless.

The Jewish Voice takes a publishing break during the month of July. So my annual rite of passage begins now: Here is your reminder to send all your news to us by June 10 so that we can print it June 19 – our last paper before the break. We will be back again Aug. 7! The deadline for that issue is July 29. And while you are out and about this summer, remember to support our advertisers, who help bring you news from our community every other week. And when you do, let them know that you saw their ad in The Voice. We appreciate our advertisers and hope our readers do, too.

lawsuit`

an endowment to maintain the Touro building and keep a rabbi in residence.

Shearith Israel, America’s oldest congregation, has served as the trustee of Touro, America’s oldest synagogue building, for nearly 200 years and objected to the transaction, saying that Jeshuat Is-

rael did not have the right to sell synagogue property. But Jeshuat Israel argued that the New York congregation has not been involved in the property for years. The dispute has drawn national attention. According to reports as of press time, the trial should last well into next week.

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.

The Jewish Voice

Free speech and hate speech Paul Berger begins his May 5 online article for the Forward with this sentence: “Long written off by mainstream critics as an Islamophobic crackpot, Pamela Geller is winning increasing sums from financial backers with her blood-andthunder warnings against the religion of Muhammad.”

B e r g e r wrote this piece shortly after Garland, Texas, police IT SEEMS shot dead two would-be jiTO ME hadis – Elton Rabbi Jim Simpson, 30, Rosenberg and Nadir Hamid Soofi, 34 – who were attempting to carry out a Charlie Hebdo-style massacre at the Curtis Culwell Center.

The two attackers, armed with assault rifles and explosives, were targeting more than 200 men and women attending the deliberately provocative Muhammad Art Exhibit and Cartoon Contest. The sold-out event was sponsored by the American Freedom Defense Initiative, cofounded in 2010 by Geller and Robert Spencer.

Geller, writing in the May l6 issue of Time magazine, insists that the Garland event was a “free-speech conference.”

“Freedom of speech is the foundation of a free society. Without it, a tyrant can wreak havoc unopposed, while his opponents are silenced.

“Putting up with being offended is essential in a pluralistic society in which people differ on basic truths. If a group will not stand for being offended without resorting to violence, that group will rule unopposed, while everyone else lives in fear.”

I do not deny that Geller is a strong advocate for free speech, but she is also a strong advocate for hate speech. Under the banner of constitutionally protected free speech, she obtained the right to run hate-speech ads on public transportation systems in New York, Boston and Philadelphia: “Islamic Jew Hatred.

It’s in the Quran.” “In any war between the civilized man and the savage, support the civilized man. Support Israel. Defeat Jihad.”

As a Jew, I find Geller’s socalled advertisements despicable. In addition to deliberately subjecting Muslim Americans to these in-your-face insults, she is perversely implying that Jewish identity necessitates hatred of the Quran and that support for Israel requires condemnation of Muslims, who are inherently “savage.” True, in her Time magazine piece, Geller writes that “Islamic law, as it’s interpreted by its extremists, forbids criticism of Islam, the Quran and Muhammad.”

The problem is that in much of her speaking and writing, she omits the qualifying phrase, “as interpreted by extremists,” and paints all of the world’s more than 1.5 billion Muslims with the same broad brush of her fear and intolerance.

Geller’s words and deeds continue to generate much heat but little light. What follows is a conversation I “overheard” on an email chain that appeared uninvited in my inbox on May 5-6. I am quoting verbatim three individuals: The person who speaks against Pam Geller’s activities in Garland I identity as CON, while I identify the two who support Geller as PRO I and PRO II. CON: “It’s just not right to denigrate another’s prophet and make a spectacle of it.”

PRO I: “I see. So murderous Jew and general infidel hatred, misogyny and the crushing of free speech and conscience are to be allowed to run amok in cowering silence because a religio-political creed’s ‘prophet’ advocated these things, and his votaries still abide them, encouraged by that creed’s leading authorities?

“In the 1950s, humorists with their heads screwed on properly understood that Communist and Islamic totalitarianism were strikingly similar so they modified the Islamic confession of faith (‘There is no God but Allah, and Muhammed is his prophet’) to the following Communist version: ‘There is no God and Karl Marx is his prophet.’”

CON: “Ms. Geller’s organization, the American Freedom Defense Initiative, made it as an active hate group on the Southern Poverty Law Center, alongside such illustrious organizations as the KKK and the Aryan Brotherhood.

No thanks, Freunde.”

PRO I: “Excuse me pal but the SPLC is itself an utterly fraudulent avatar of calumny and hate.”

CON: “Look, you just do not denigrate a religious belief.

That gives the denigrated religious group grounds for what might be their inherent hateful inclinations.”

PRO II: “Think of the prohibition related to the image of Muhammad as a symbol for all the rest of Islamic Law that we are not supposed to transgress.

It’s simply a test case. Bow to it or not.”

CON: “Muhammad may be all they have. What do you hope to achieve by ridiculing Muhammad?”

PRO II: “Do you know what Muhammad did to the Jews of Medina in 627? Killed 600-800, took their daughters and wives as sex slaves, appropriated their property. This would not be so bad, but for the sad fact that he is worshipped as the model human and Muslims are supposed to imitate his behavior. A problem, no?”

CON: “I know all about Muhammad. So your answer is to encourage cartoons of him.

You are not thinking. You are further empowering the legacy of his evil.”

This email exchange reinforces my view that Geller manages to bring out the worst in others: so much venom. Such a travesty of historical oversimplification. As if almost 1500 years of Muslim experience can be reduced to talking points, to easily digested sound bites.

In United States v. Rabinowitz (1950), Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter states: “It is a fair summary of history to say that the safeguards of liberty have been forged in controversies involving not very nice people.”

It seems to me that Pam Geller is not a very nice person. Nevertheless, it is one of the ironies of our American experience that this Islamophobic hatemonger – though her words and deeds be profoundly misguided – might be bolstering the safeguards of one of our most precious liberties: the liberty to say what we want.

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

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for publication or refuse publication. Letters and columns, whether from our regular contributors or from guest columnists, represent the views of the authors; they do not represent the views of The Jewish Voice or the Alliance.

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OPINION

thejewishvoice.org

June 5, 2015 |

9

The Houston flood, Jewish values and human values

BY JACOB KAMARAS/JNS.org

As Jewish media far and wide started picking up on the story of this week’s devastating flood in Houston, which hit Jewishheavy neighborhoods particularly hard, JNS.org was (in my own estimation) conspicuously late to join the reporting. That is by design. I am both our editor and a resident of Houston, and in the days after the May 25-26 storm, the flood was a life event rather than a news story.

But as I type these words on Thursday morning, May 28, while my local Jewish community continues to engage in inspirational relief efforts for its affected members, I feel some measure of distance from the event itself and am finally ready to write about the flood – but as a human being, not as a news reporter. For many others who suffered much worse material and emotional damage than I did, I’m sure that such “distance” isn’t possible right now, so I hope my writing can serve as somewhat of a holding space for their feelings.

The night of May 25, which coincided with the end of Shavuot, started normally enough.

Sure, my wife and I could see persistent lightning outside the window of our third-floor apartment, but it was initially more of an artsy light show than a concern. After a few hours, however, we saw some cars flooding outside and figured it would be a good idea to check on my wife’s car, which was parked in the bottom level of our building’s lot.

On the way down, the elevator stalled at the bottom level, and some water started to spill inside. The doors initially wouldn’t open. At that point, my wife and I weren’t aware of how much water was actually outside the elevator. When the doors did open after perhaps the longest minute of my life, the water was up to our knees.

When we saw my wife’s car inundated with water, it was clear that nothing could be done to save it. But after escaping a disaster in the elevator, the car was the furthest thing from my thoughts. I was simply grateful to be alive.

Looking outside my apartment window the next morning, to call the scene akin to the Great Flood from the Book of Genesis isn’t much of an exaggeration. The surrounding area

loss presented a unique opportunity for Hakarat Hatov when juxtaposed with being stuck in the elevator, even if only for a minute. My wife and I lost a car.

But we did not lose our lives by drowning in an elevator. Nor did we lose a home or any other vital personal possessions. And of course, the car is both insured and replaceable. There is so much good to be recognized.

I have seen fellow community members, particularly those who lost their homes, show much more impressive Hakarat Hatov. Despite their significant material loss, they are expressing gratitude for their safety, their future, the assistance they have received and the replaceability of their possessions. This is another instance in which my Facebook news feed has been inspirational.

IsraAID volunteers help with removing debris from damaged houses in the Wimberley, Texas area. was, quite literally, a lake. We learned that the flooded cars we had visited in our parking lot just hours earlier were now completely underwater. After the perfunctory call to our car insurance provider, I began to obsess a little more about our car than I had in the immediate aftermath of the “at least I’m alive” gratitude that followed the elevator experience.

But as we regained power and Internet access later in the day, we learned of the farworse damage sustained by those living in homes near our synagogue, United Orthodox Synagogues of Houston (UOS).

Numerous homes of our fellow congregants were destroyed, and almost every area of the synagogue building was significantly damaged. At that point, despite my angst about losing a car, it was clear that we had gotten off easy. That doesn’t mean I stopped thinking about the car altogether – far from it – but it was the ultimate lesson in perspective-taking and putting myself in others’ shoes.

The way I see it, the historically severe Houston flood presents an opportunity to reflect on some important Jewish values – which are also human values. Some of the values that follow can be difficult to embrace or understand in the heat of the moment, when disaster strikes.

But with time, they carry the potential to be comforting, em-

powering and inspirational.

Kol Yisrael Areivim Ze La’ze

Translated as “all the people of Israel are responsible for one another,” this value has been vividly manifested in my Jewish community during and after the flood. On the night of the deluge and continuing into the next day, Facebook became a mission control center, with residents of the area surrounding the UOS synagogue frantically – but oh so efficiently – spreading news on which families needed rescuing, tagging the names of both the individuals in the most dire situations and those with the rafts and canoes to save them. Particularly iconic – as well as viral on traditional and social media – has become an image of the elderly rabbi emeritus of UOS, Rabbi Joseph Radinsky, being rescued in a canoe by fellow community members Donniel Ogorek and Morgan Davies. Looking back on the Facebook “news feed” that chronicles the immediate Jewish communal response to the flood is a true inspiration.

Also inspirational is my community’s ongoing grassroots flood-relief effort. The frantic Facebook tagging has shifted to more methodical online spreadsheets that are recruiting help for affected individuals and families, who are in need of shelter, clean clothing, food, cleanup help and peace of mind.

Indeed, “all the people of Is-

Gam Zu L’tovah

rael are responsible for one another” has been taken to heart here in Houston.

Tikkun Olam

The Jewish value of “repairing the world” is frequently invoked in communal circles.

Some would say that it has become almost a catchphrase, or even a semi-politicized term associated primarily with progressive/liberal Jewry rather than traditional Jews who are also looking to repair the world.

But in the aftermath of the Houston flood, there is no such polarizing debate about tikkun olam. The “world,” in this case our local community, is literally in need of repair. To that end, Jewish organizations are doing their part to raise disaster-relief funds. Among the fundraisers – I apologize in advance to those I am inevitably missing in this space – are B’nai B’rith International, the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and the Orthodox Union.

Hakarat Hatov

“Recognizing the good” is particularly difficult in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, especially for those who are most severely affected. My personal loss of a car turned out to be relatively insignificant within the spectrum of the losses experienced by other members of my community. Besides the important understanding of “it could have been worse,” the car

“This, too, is for the best.” It’s a Jewish expression that can be seen as an extension of Hakarat Hatov, yet goes even further by saying that there is not only good to be recognized amid a disaster, but that the disaster itself is for the best. As difficult as it is to recognize the good in the context of trauma, what is even harder is to view the actual traumatic portion as a benefit. For those who lost homes and everything else they own in the Houston flood, or worse, those who lost family members, acknowledging Gam Zu L’tovah must be a virtual impossibility. Even if a traumatized individual speaks those words aloud, and even for the most emotionally mature and balanced victims of this disaster who are able to show remarkable perspective-taking skills, it must be so difficult to actually believe inside that everything that happened is “for the best.”

But at least on a communitywide level, this value is already being internalized in Houston.

Yes, there is a long road ahead.

The repairs will be costly, and they will require much time and patience. Yet the remarkable display of Jewish unity resulting from the flood will have an enduring positive effect, bringing the community closer together than ever. Inspiration, it seems, sometimes comes with a heavy price tag. In the process, both internal character and meaningful interpersonal relationships are built.

This, too, is for the best.

Sirens wail, citizens run to shelters as Israel holds preparedness drill JERUSALEM (JTA) – Rocket sirens wailed across Israel as part of an annual nationwide preparedness drill.

The sirens on the morning of June 2 also were broadcast on television and radio. Civilians were told to head to their bomb shelters and schoolchildren took cover. A second siren was scheduled for the evening.

Sirens did not sound in Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip, however,

which heard thousands of sirens during last summer’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

The siren drills came on the last day of a three-day national exercise called Turning Point 15, which simulated coordinated attacks from Gaza, Syria and Lebanon, and involved nearly every government ministry and national security force, including the military, police, Homefront Command and fire

services. Some exercises will continue through June 4.

Israel in recent days reportedly sent messages to Iran and Hezbollah to reassure them that the exercise was strictly a drill.

This year’s drill has focused on the ability of the national infrastructure, including electricity, water, gas and computer systems, to withstand an emergency, according to Ynet.

“Adequate preparation is important because planning well will pay off in the end,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at the start of the national exercise.

The first Turning Point drill took place in 2007 in the aftermath of the Second Lebanon War.

10 | June 5, 2015

Ongoing Alliance Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove ave., providence. Noon lunch; 1 p.m. program. $3 lunch donation from individuals 60+ or under 60 with disabilities. Neal or Elaine, 401421-4111, ext. 107.

Am david Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every weekday.

Congregation 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 401-732-0047.

Through | June 9

gallery (401) Early Childhood Center Art Show. Dwares JCC. Featuring works by children in our David C. isenberg Family Early Childhood Center.

Free and open to the community.

For more information, contact Nicole Katzman at 401-421-4111, ext. 180 or nkatzman@jewishallianceri.org.

Through | June 10

Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863 and the March on Washington, 1963. Changing america examines the Emancipation proclamation and the March on Washington, two events separated by 100 years, yet profoundly linked together in a larger story of liberty and the american experience. Exhibition is on loan from the smithsonian’s National Museum of african american history and Culture and the National Museum of american history in collaboration with the american library association public programs office. sponsored by the Center for the study of slavery & Justice. Brown RisD hillel.

Through | June 25

Spring Watercolor Florals, Photographs from Nigeria. The Gallery at temple habonim displays Nancy Godfray’s and toni peterson’s watercolors along with shai afsai’s photographs from his trips to Nigeria to document the igbo Jews. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and by appointment. For information, call 401-245-6536, or email gallery@ templehabonim.org.

Friday | June 5

Temple Shalom honors rabbi Jagolinzer. sabbath Eve service. 7:30 p.m. The worship will feature Cantor Fredric scheff accompanied by stephen Martorella. The Community Baptist Church Choir and the United Congregation Church Choir will offer musical selections. The sermon will be delivered by The Rev. R. Joseph tripp, Jr., a colleague and close friend of the Rabbi. temple shalom, 223 Valley Road, Middletown. For more information contact Mickie and Gerry Mac Neill at 401-447-0702.

cAlEnDAR | clASSiFiED

The Jewish Voice

Friday Night Live Honors Torat Yisrael Volunteers. 6 p.m. temple torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Friday Night live is a musical celebration of shabbat with dinner to follow. Menu: Chicken, potato, Vegetable and Dessert. Cost: adults and Children over 12, $20 per person; children 12 years and younger free, family max. $60. RsVp to torat Yisrael office at 401-885-6600 by May 29.

starting your adult lives or are married and have children, stop wandering…

(401)j is your destination. Cost: $36 per person. For more information or to hold your spot at the shabbaton, contact Erin Moseley at emoseley@jewishallianceri. org or 401-421-4111, ext. 108.

Sunday | June 14

Friday Night Services. 7:30 p.m. led by congregation’s new rabbi, Rabbi Carolan Glatstein. United Brothers synagogue, 205 high st., Bristol.

Saturday | June 6

Temple Shalom honors rabbi Jagolinzer. shabbat Morning services.

10 a.m. Cantor scheff and members of the Congregation will participate. The sermon will be delivered by Rabbi loel Weiss. a Kiddush luncheon will conclude the morning’s events. temple shalom, 223 Valley Road, Middletown.

For more information contact Mickie and Gerry Mac Neill at 401-447-0702.

Sunday | June 7

Sprouts Preschool Program in Partnership with the PJ Library. 9 a.m. Closing ceremonies.temple torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. 401-885-6600, toratyisrael.org.

Temple Shalom honors rabbi Jagolinzer. Cocktails followed by dinner and tribute. 6 p.m. at the atlantic Beach Club. a dairy buffet dinner will be served. The featured speaker for the evening will be The Most Reverend Thomas J. tobin, Bishop of providence, a longtime friend of the Rabbi. other speakers include sheila Mullowney, Editor of The Newport Daily News, Jonathan herman, a former student of Rabbi Jagolinzer, his son, Charles Jagolinzer and alvin Marcovici, president of temple shalom. Entertainment will include some musical selections by Cantor scheff and a tribute to the Rabbi by members and friends of temple shalom. all are cordially invited. For more information contact Mickie and Gerry Mac Neill at 401-447-0702.

Monday | June 8

30th Annual dwares JCC Golf Classic. 11 a.m. ledgemont Country Club. hosted by the Jewish alliance of Greater Rhode island. 11 a.m. Registration | 11:30 a.m. lunch | 12:45 p.m. shotgun start | 5:30 p.m. Cocktails, Dinner & awards. Register online at jewishallianceri.org or by contacting hillary schulman at 401-421-4111 ext. 127 or hschulman@jewishallianceri.org.

Tuesday | June 9

Federal Benefits for Veterans and Their Surviving Spouses and daily Money Management. presented by Jim Goldman, Cpa, aBV and president of ElderCare, R.i., llC. 6:30 p.m. tamarisk assisted living Residence, 3 shalom Drive, Warwick. RsVp to Dianne 401-

Calendar Submissions

JUnE 19 issue, HEALTH & WELLnESS – must be received by JUnE 10 nO PAPERS ARE PUBLISHED In JULy. AUgUST 7 issue, BACK TO SCHOOL – must be received by JULy 29 SEnD ALL CALEnDAR ITEMS TO: editor@jewishallianceri.org with the subject line “CALEnDAR.” Calendar entries may be edited for content, length and relevance. Please submit two weeks prior to issue of publication.

Art from the David C. Isenberg Family Early Childhood Center now on display in gallery (401) at the Dwares JCC through June 9. This is a colorful sponge painting from the preschool.

732-0037.

Can We Talk About Israel? presented by the israel task Force of the Community Relations Council and The Jewish Voice. 6:30-9 p.m. Dwares JCC. Based on the successful “israel talks” program developed in New York and a local pilot program in February, this program hopes to promote civil dialogue and active discussion about israel-arab issues and the role of the United states. small, diverse groups with a moderator will discuss important issues to foster listening, dialogue and understanding for the wide range of perspectives that exist in the Jewish community. This will help strengthen our community by encouraging civil discourse, mutual respect and tolerance for our diverse points of view; help ensure that our love for israel unites rather than divides us; and build more community participation on israelrelated issues. Coffee and dessert will be served. No admission charge. space is limited. RsVp to Marty Cooper at 401-421-4111, ext. 171 or mcooper@ jewishallianceri.org.

Travel camp at the Jcc Each summer, the last week of J-Camp offers a fun and unique experience for kids in grades 3-7. This is the week for Travel Camp with a different field trip every day. Admission to the site and lunch are included in the camp fee for the week.

This year we will travel to Breezy Acres Water Park on Monday Aug. 17, Mystic Aquarium and City Park Beach on Tuesday, Aug. 18, Canobie Lake Park on Wednesday, Aug. 19, Douglas State Park on Thursday, Aug. 20 and fi nally we will go bowling and to the movies on Friday, August 21.

Travel Camp encourages an appreciation of our community and environment as well as teamwork and responsibility. Spots are limited for this exciting week, so sign up now!

For more information, contact Seth Finkle, director of Camp Haverim, sfi nkle@jewishallianceri.org, at 401-421-4111, ext. 146.

Wednesday | June 10 Jewish Alliance Annual Meeting. 7 p.m. Dwares JCC. Board installations: Jewish alliance of Greater Rhode island, Jewish Federation Foundation, alliance Realty, inc. More information, contact Gail putnam at 401-421-4111, ext. 158, or gputnam@jewishallianceri. org.

Our Immigrant Songwriters. Noon at temple Beth-El. a musical celebration of Jewish immigrants’ contributions to tin pan alley 1909-1941. Judy seplowin, soprano; Fred scheff, tenor; lila Kane accompanist; narrated by John Bush Jones. lunch included. $5 per person. For more information, 401331-6070 or info@temple-beth-el.org.

Interfaith Israel Experience Educational Evening. 6:30 p.m., First Unitarian Universalist society of Middleboro. al and Joan lincoln from the spiritual assembly of the Baha’is of Boston will speak about their experience serving at the Baha’i World Centre in haifa, israel, a stop on the community interfaith trip to israel (March 29 to april 10, 2016). two brief videos of the site will be shown. 25 south Main st. (lower level), Middleboro, Mass. You do not need to be traveling to israel to participate, though the trip is open to all. For more information contact Rabbi anne heath, 781-956-8673 or rabbi.taunton@ verizon.net.

Friday | June 12 (401)j Shabbaton. Camp JoRi, 1065 Wordens pond Road, Wakefield. Through June 14. spend the weekend with (401)j, a group of dynamic Jews, ages early 20s to mid-40s, who are dedicated to building a thriving Jewish collaboration in the “401.” Through a variety of programs including social, cultural, educational and advocacy, young Jews like you are continuing the tradition of community. Whether you’re professionals, grad students, just

Trash to Treasure Sale and Bake Sale.

8 a.m. – noon. temple torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich.

Rent a table for $25 to sell your stuff or donate your stuff to the torat Yisrael table. Call the torat Yisrael office at 401-885-6600 for more details.

March of the Living Open House. 2-4 p.m. Dwares JCC. Come find out about the March of the living, a two-week international trip where thousands of teens (grades 10-12) from around the world come together to bear witness in poland and celebrate in the state of israel. RsVp to Jana Brenman, director of teen engagement, at 401-421-4111, ext. 181 or jbrenman@jewishallianceri. org.

Fall river Jewish Home donor Event.

10 a.m. temple Beth El, Fall River, Mass. 76th annual event celebrates the 90th anniversary of the Fall River Jewish home. Breakfast event. proceeds benefit residents’ quality of life.

For more information, call 508-6796172.

Wednesday | June 17

The Environment as a Bridge to Peace in the Middle East: The Arava Institute as a Case Study. 7:15 p.m.

Congregation agudas achim, attleboro, Mass. Rabbi Michael Cohen will speak about environmental issues in israel and his projects on water resources there, working with israeli Jews and palestinians. a Q-and-a follows his presentation.

Free and open to the public. 901 North Main st., attleboro. For more information call 508-222-2243.

Friday | June 19

Temple Torat Yisrael Open House and Beach Shabbat. 5:30-7 p.m. Come experience Kabbalat shabbat with an informal, interactive family service at Goddard park in Warwick. service begins at 6 p.m. with a potluck dairy picnic immediately following.

Tuesday | June 23

Temple Torat Yisrael’s Lunch and Learn with rabbi Philmus! Noon. t’s Restaurant. June topic: “God Versus pot? Jewish perspectives on the legalization of Marijuana.” Each participant orders from the menu, and we study Jewish sources addressing current issues. Everyone is welcome, bring a friend! t’s Restaurant, 5600 post Road, East Greenwich.

The Voice Classified DOWNSIZING SALE!

Piano, Sohmer, handsome walnut 45” much loved upright in excellent condition. Rich tone, well maintained. Matching bench. $1600. Sleeper sofa, attractive country style sofa with pullout double bed. Good condition. $125. Exercise bike MP3500, Vital Fitness, $80. Treadmill, Proform920, autoslope adjustment $150. Both in excellent condition. Also Deacons Bench, pine stained mahogany color. 42”x31” good condition. $75. Please call 401-245-8384.

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Contact Tricia Stearly, tstearly@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 160.

June 5, 2015 |

thejewishvoice.org

Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island th

4 Annual Meeting Wednesday, June 10, 2015 | 7:00pm Dwares JCC 401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence

Board Installations: Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island Jewish Federation Foundation Alliance Realty, Inc. Doris Feinberg, Installing Officer Guest Speaker: Edward M. Mazze Distinguished University Professor of Business Administration University of Rhode Island

2015 - 2016 Proposed Slate of Officers and Board Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island Chair Sharon Gaines Vice Chairs Mitzi Berkelhammer, Philanthropy Stacy Emanuel, Communications Marc Gertsacov, Community Development Robert Landau, Governance James Pious, Jewish Life & Learning Secretary Susan Leach DeBlasio Treasurer Neil Beranbaum

Board of Directors Sheila Alexander Rabbi Barry Dolinger Mark Feinstein Harold Foster Susan Froehlich Daniel Gamm Richard Glucksman, Community Relations Council Janet Goldman, Chair Appointee Hope Hirsch Marcia Hirsch, Chair Appointee Rabbi Sarah Mack, Board of Rabbis of Greater RI Vincent Mor Tina Odessa Ralph Posner Jay Rosenstein Steven Shalansky, Leadership Development Robert Sherwin Lisa Shorr Barbara Sokoloff Robert Stolzman Richard Sutton Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow Honorary Directors Melvin G. Alperin Alan G. Hassenfeld Richard A. Licht, Immediate Past Chair Jeffrey K. Savit, President and CEO

2015 - 2016 Proposed Jewish Federation Foundation Board Jay Rosenstein, Chair Melvin Alperin Mitzi Berkelhammer H. Jack Feibelman Mark Feinstein Susan Froehlich Sharon Gaines, Ex-officio David Hirsch Marilyn Kaplan Scott Libman Richard Licht Michael Nulman Claire Perlman Ralph Posner Steven Shalansky, Treasurer/Secretary David Sheer Robert Sherwin, Vice Chair Mathew Shuster Herbert Stern Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow Mindy Wachtenheim 2015 - 2016 Proposed Alliance Realty, Inc. Board Ronald C. Markoff, Chair Robert Stolzman, Vice Chair Sharon Gaines, Secretary/Treasurer Jeffrey K. Savit, President and CEO

11

12 | June 5, 2015

FOOD

The Jewish Voice

PHOTO | ALASKA SEAFOOD MKTG INSTITUTE

Sensational fish on the grill Family Features – The fresh, enticing flavors of the sea are calling. This summer, amp up your outdoor dining experience with recipes that offer a nutritious and delicious alternative to garden-variety grilled fare like burgers and steaks. Low in fat and sodium, and high in heart-healthy omega-3s, fish takes on a whole new appeal when prepared over an open flame. Grilling fish is easy with simple preparations such as these that let the flavors stand front and center.

For more guest-worthy recipes go to, wildalaskaseafood. com.

Serve a smarter entree option

Families who want to feel good about what they eat can feel confident when they serve Alaska sockeye salmon, a versatile protein that is sustainably harvested. From one of the most bountiful fishing regions in the world, Alaska salmon have never been listed as endangered or threatened. In fact, sustainable seafood practices are so essential to Alaska, they are written into the state’s constitution.

As a source of omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein and other nutrients, such as selenium, phosphorus and potassium, wild Alaska sockeye salmon makes a great mealtime addition. At 220 calories per 3.5-ounce serving, it’s a delicious, low-calorie entree.

Sockeye Salmon with Herbs and Garlic Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 13 minutes Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds Alaska sockeye salmon, fresh or thawed Cooking spray 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup white wine 2 tablespoons melted butter or extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh garlic 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs

Method

Remove salmon from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking. Heat grill to 375 degrees.

Cut 2 pieces of wide, heavyduty aluminum foil about 6 inches longer than salmon side. Stack foil pieces (shiny side down) on baking sheet and spray generously with cooking spray. Place salmon, skin side down, in middle of foil. Fold foil sides and ends up (1-2 inches) to make shallow pan around salmon, leaving at least a 1-inch margin around fish. Season salmon with salt and pepper.

In small bowl, mix together wine, butter, garlic and herbs.

Spread mixture over salmon.

Carefully transfer foil pan to center of preheated grill. Do not cover salmon with foil or close foil over salmon. Close grill cover and cook 10-13 minutes, cooking just until fish is lightly translucent in center – it will finish cooking from retained heat. Remove from grill and let rest a few minutes before serving.

Cook’s tip: Check salmon for doneness at 10 minutes.

Grilled Alaska Cod Tacos

Prep time: 35 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 1/2 tablespoons cumin seeds 3 jalapeno chilies, stemmed and cut in half 2 cloves garlic 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice 1 large bunch cilantro 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 1/2 pounds wild Alaska cod fillets 12 corn tortillas, warmed (4 to 6-inch tortillas) 6 lettuce leaves, torn in half 1 cup high-quality, storebought salsa fresca 1 cup guacamole (see recipe below), or high-quality, storebought guacamole Lime wedges, for serving

Guacamole

5 ripe avocados, preferably California Hass 6 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 medium red onion, diced 4 jalapeno chilies, stemmed, seeded and finely diced 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For marinade

Lightly toast cumin seeds in dry skillet over low heat just until aroma is released, about 5 minutes. Transfer seeds to blender. Add jalapenos, garlic, salt, pepper and lime juice and puree until cumin seeds are finely ground. Add cilantro and olive oil and puree until smooth. Generously cover cod entirely with marinade and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.

Preheat medium-hot grill, broiler oven or pan on stovetop over medium-high heat.

Cook fish until nearly opaque throughout, about 2-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove fish from heat, cool slightly and pull apart into large flakes.

For guacamole

Cut avocados in half. Remove seeds, peel, quarter and place in mixing bowl. Mash with potato masher or fork until chunky.

Add remaining ingredients and combine with fork. Serve immediately.

To assemble tacos, place warm tortillas on work surface and line each with piece of lettuce. Top with chunks of fish, a generous spoonful of salsa fresca and guacamole. Serve immediately accompanied by lime wedges.

Notes: Guacamole recipe will yield 3 cups total. To warm tortillas, dip corn tortillas in water, shaking off excess. Toast, in batches, in nonstick pan over moderate heat, about 1 minute per side. Wrap in towel to keep warm.

communiTy

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June 5, 2015 |

13

A life-changing glimpse into the past

bY JEWisH VoiCE stAff It’s been called the experience of a lifetime. It starts in Poland and ends in Israel.

In the spring of 2016, thousands of Jewish teens from all corners of the earth will share in this experience when they march 3 kilometers from Auschwitz to Birkenau, the largest concentration complex built by the Nazis during World War II. March of the Living takes place May 1-15, 2016, and is timed to coincide with Yom HaShoah as well as Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut.

“This is the perfect example of experiential education,” said Jana Brenman, director of teen engagement and education at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, a sponsor of the trip.

This year, the New England region of the March of the Living will send a group of students to join approximately 15,000 other teens from more than 40 countries on this journey.

New England’s teens fly from New York to Poland where they spend time visiting old synagogues, hearing stories of the

Rhode Island teens at March of the Living 2014.

Warsaw and Krakow ghettos, walking through cemeteries and meeting Polish peers. The march, which traces the route of the infamous death marches, is the powerful highlight of the trip, according to those who have participated in past trips.

At the conclusion, there is a memorial service at the gas chambers at Birkenau.

The second week of the trip is spent in Israel, visiting Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Galilee, the Golan and Masada. On Yom Ha’atzmaut, the group marches

to the Kotel with other partici-

pants.

“By traveling together, the teens make and develop lifelong friendships while gaining a deepened appreciation of Israel,” Brenman said. “They also learn how to stand up to injustice of any kind.”

Lexi Kutenplon-Rayess who participated in the 2014 trip said, “When you are in Poland you are standing on the same ground as our ancestors and you feel it, the emotions are there. A week later you are in Israel… with thousands of teens from around the world… you have Judaism in common.

You feel Israel and the Jewish people come together.”

Support for the trip is provided by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Touro Fraternal Association and the Holocaust Education Resource Center of R.I. Students may also use their Gift of Israel funds.

Join us on June 14, from 2-4 p.m. and learn more about the trip. There will be an open house at the Dwares JCC where you can get information on the upcoming march. Past participants will be available to talk about their experiences. Contact Jana Brenman at 401-4214111, ext. 181 or jbrenman@jewishallianceri.org to RSVP and for more information.

JOIN TEMPLE TORAT YISRAEL FOR OUR BEACH SHABBATS Friday, June 19 • Friday, July 17 • Friday, August 21 5:45 pm @ Goddard Park, Warwick

A great evening full of music, fun & prayer with Rabbi Aaron Philmus

1251 Middle Road | East Greenwich, RI | 401.885.6600 | www.ToratYisrael.org

14 | June 5, 2015

community

The Jewish Voice

Sarah Halper holds a blouse.

Bracha Notterman stands by a rack of new arrivals.

photos | irina missiuro

Your Sister’s Closet

Women’s clothing g’mach thrives in Providence

By Irina Missiuro imissiuro@jewishallianceri.org If you are not part of the Orthodox community, you might be unfamiliar with the concept of g’mach. It stands for Gemilut Chasadim, deeds of loving kindness. Members of Jewish communities worldwide collect various items, including clothing, food, toys and furniture to be distributed to those in need.

According to Bracha (Barbara) Notterman, one of two women who run the g’mach in Rhode Island, it all started with Julie Lurie, who ran the giving closet from “an oppressively hot tiny room in her attic.”

Notterman explains that Lurie “had access to a source in New York, a company that supplied her with clothes that were new and beautiful but didn’t sell.” Lurie supplemented the high-end items with some local donations. After running the operation for three years, Lurie moved to Chicago and Melisa Beck, her assistant, moved to California.

Now Sara Halper and Notterman run the g’mach out of Halper’s large basement. They want to carry on the operation because they feel it’s useful to women in the community. Notterman says that she used to frequent a g’mach when she was much younger. She remembers feeling grateful for being able to pick out some clothes without having to put a dent in her finances. “It was like Hanukkah – I couldn’t wait to go through the bags.” Later, when she was able to return the favor, she felt just as thankful. “It was lovely to be able to pass it on so someone else could use it. Clothes shouldn’t be tossed. The g’mach

is a way of sharing the things you have without having to have a lot of money.”

Notterman explains that g’machs are usually themed because a house can’t incorporate everything that people might need or want to share. They decided to focus on women’s clothing because they believe that a Jewish woman should be treated like a princess. And, because they have so much more space than in the original location, they can store many more clothes. Thanks to generous community donors, the g’mach inventory has increased tenfold.

This is great news for community women. After all, not everyone can afford to purchase clothes every season or to be able to accommodate changing fashion and taste. Notterman and Halper sort through the donations, hang the clothes and act as fashion consultants to women who often appreciate another woman’s opinion on how an outfit looks. The two organizers would like women to understand that they always have an opportunity to look beautiful. Notterman says, “Being Orthodox doesn’t mean you have to be frumpy. Find your own style, figure out what looks good on you.”

Halper has always loved clothes. In her late teens, she worked in a boutique in England. She enjoyed selling the merchandise, as well as advising the buyers. When she saw a need for a g’mach spacious enough to attract more women, she “seized this opportunity to harness [her] skills in retail, sales, style and customer service.” She says, “I love what I do. I take tremendous satisfac-

tion in helping a woman put together outfits, especially since we do not charge anything as it is truly a chesed and a tzedakah project.”

They named their g’mach Your Sister’s Closet because they carry the type of clothes that your sister would have in her closet. That means that the items hold their shape, are not torn, have no missing buttons or stains. In other words, these are clothes that you’d be proud to lend, wear or give away if you are tired of them. Also, keep in mind that the pieces should be modest – no plunging necklines or short-sleeved dresses and shirts. Hats and jewelry are in high rotation, but shoes are off-limits as they look too unappealing if they are worn. An occasional wedding dress can be found as well.

Even though this service is free, at one point, the two women found themselves debating whether or not they should close because of low demand.

Clients weren’t coming in anymore because the g’mach was not receiving enough attractive clothes. Notterman and Halper discovered that many women wanted a separate rack featuring the new clothing.

The organizers complied.

And, thanks to the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, they will have a full-length mirror for the area and new bright lighting in the dark basement.

Halper says, “We are excited about the partnership because we would like to reach women we hadn’t already identified – those who may not know we exist.”

Usually, according to the organizers, when women learn of the giving closet, they are

thrilled at the opportunity to “shop” there and bring their donations. The giving closet also stocks some professional clothing. Women who would like to update their wardrobes with some business staples for work should visit the g’mach.

In fact, Notterman encourages everyone to give it a try. She says, “We want to help people. If they don’t come, why are we doing this? People must use it. The

wider the need, the better.”

If you would like to drop off donations or to make an appointment to visit the g’mach Sunday through Thursday, you can email Halper at SaraLindsay.Halper@Verizon.net or call Notterman at 401-272-8757.

Irina Missiuro is a writer and editorial consultant for The Jewish Voice.

father’s day

thejewishvoice.org

Aaron Dovid Twersky

I love my father because we play baseball.

Aharon Rosenthal

I love my father because he plays Sorry with me.

Shoshana Raizel Yudkowsky

I love my father because he plays with me and brings me to the park.

Kalman Taitelbaum

I love my father because he loves me and gives me kisses.

From seventh grade: Elka Taitelbaum

Ezra Minkin from page 1

Shimon Kapilevich

dads

Ezra Minkin

I like my father because he learns and plays with me. I like it when my father takes me to his Rock Gym. My father also helps me with my homework. He is a very nice person, and I enjoy being around him. My father is amazing and helpful. My father is a nice and caring person.

Mordy Bielory

From pre-kindergarten: Yaakov Abrahim

I love my father because he plays board games with me.

Moshe Zimmerman

I love my father because I go to get Slurpees with him.

Moussia Laufer

I love my father because I hug him.

Emily Haas

I respect my father very much.

He leaves to teach in Boston around 6:10 every morning. Late at night he teaches the daily portion from the Talmud and from the Shulchan Aruch, the Jewish Code of Law. In Boston, my father teaches in different schools.

My father still finds time to learn with me each day, though his day is so long and tiring. My father reviews the daily Talmud portion more than three times a day!

He also acts as Dirshu’s representative in both Providence and Boston. I thank my father for all that he does for me.

I love my father because he plays games with me.

Shimon Kapilevich

I love my father because he plays baseball with me.

I love my father because he learns with me. Whenever I ask him to learn or play, he stops what he’s doing and he will for sure learn with me, and sometimes he will also play with me. I like my father because he works hard to take care of me and gets money for our family. I love my father with all my heart, and I’m lucky to have him.

My father is special for many reasons. He is very understanding and helps me in times of need.

Leeba Berlin

I love my father because he brings me to school.

Nechama Leah Minkin

I love my father because he plays hide and seek with me.

Tova Schwartz

I love my father because he takes walks with me.

Dovid Azriel Purec

I love my father because sometimes he brings me to school.

Bentzion Schachter Sruli Menchel

I love my father because he takes me to the aquarium.

Moishy Haldorsen

I love my father because we watch movies on his phone.

Ari Schloss

I love my father because we play Bingo together.

Chavi Saklad

Chavi Saklad

I have the best father ever! He loves me so much and would do anything for me. I couldn’t ask for anything more than a loving, caring, fun, smart, amazing, sweet, awesome, understanding and just incredible person whom I’m blessed to have as my father.

From eighth grade: Bracha Leah Rosenthal

My father is special in many ways. He is a very empathetic person and he always tries to make people happy. Whenever something is wrong he makes a joke so everyone gets all smiley.

He is an amazing person.

Sonora Smart Dodd: The Mother of Father’s Day

BY STEPHANIE ROSS Upon losing her mother in the winter of 1898, 16-year-old Sonora Smart Dodd and her father William Smart embarked on a journey that would forever change the perception of fathers.

As a survivor of the Civil War, Smart moved his family out west to seek his fortune while raising his six children as a single parent. The sacrifices Smart made to care for his family were unique at the time, as fathers held the stereotype of being absent.

Dodd, however, idolized her father and realized the importance fathers held in the household. After attending a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909, Dodd became determined to give fathers

the same recognition. She began going to local churches, the YMCA, shopkeepers and government officials around Washington State to gain support.

On June 19, 1910, the state of Washington celebrated its first Father’s Day. Father’s Day slowly gained popularity throughout the nation. President Richard Nixon made Father’s Day a permanent federal holiday in 1972, nearly 60 years after Mother’s Day. Dodd was honored for her contributions at the World’s Fair in 1974.

She died in 1978 at the age of 96.

Today, fathers around the world are honored and celebrated each year. According to Time magazine, consumers spent $12.7 billion on Father’s Day

in 2013. The reputation fathers have today is much different from Dodd’s time. Today, nearly three-quarters of fathers say they’re more involved with their kids than their fathers were. In 2012, 32 percent of fathers were reported to be the primary caregivers in the family.

Sonora Smart Dodd’s work for fathers and equal recognition will not be forgotten. As the “mother of Father’s Day” she pioneered a special day that would forever give fathers the recognition they deserve.

Happy Father’s Day! STEPHANIE ROSS is a freelance writer and marketing coordinator.

June 5, 2015 |

15

Father’s Day thoughts

BY ROSE EPSTEIN It is only April and most writers think about Mother’s Day, but this is what I have wanted to write about for many years.

Why? Because I had no father!

Oh, yes my mother was married when I was born, but my father died when I was 22 months old. I have no recollection of him at all, only stories told to me about him.

I had a lot of father figures growing up such as uncles, my mother’s sister’s husband who I called daddy until I was 17. My father’s brother who seemed to care for me almost as much as he did for his own daughter. But I had no father.

I was told that for my first Christmas my father came into our apartment wearing a Santa Claus suit bringing presents in a burlap bag. Of course my mother said he scared me half to death and made me cry. Maybe this is why I still love the idea of Christmas presents.

I had no buffer between my mother and me. That would be a father or daddy. There was no daddy to wipe away my tears because I had a bad day at school. There was no daddy who could take me to the corner store for an ice cream. There was no daddy to read me a book or tell me a story at bedtime. There was no daddy who would eat the veggies I did not like from my plate when my mother wasn’t looking. There was no daddy to tell me I was the most beautiful princess in the world as I twirled around, showing off a new dress.

I could not go to a Father/ Daughter dance at school.

Who would want to go with an uncle? There was no father to give me away at my wedding to the man I loved who had no father either. At least his father lived until he was 15 so he had many memories. My memories are all make believe.

When I was younger everyone who had known him, even my cousin Irving who had been the page boy at my parent’s wedding, loved him. Everyone told me stories of how wonderful and good he was. I have many pictures even one taken of my parent’s engagement. I have their wedding picture hanging above mine on the wall in my living room.

I have spent 80 years wondering how different my life might have been had my father lived. So, when my husband died at age 68, I still had a lot of my life to live alone.

My two younger daughters got married; they too missed their daddy. My youngest grandson got married (how proud his mother’s daddy would have been) and presented me with two lovely little great-granddaughters and one darling little great-grandson.

Seems my family kept growing and keeps going on. My two oldest granddaughters are getting married this year.

And let me not forget to congratulate one of my younger granddaughters who will celebrate her bat mitzvah this May. Now I will once again be replacing my daughter’s daddy on the bimah as I did at my each of my two older grandsons’ bar mitzvah ceremonies.

Happy Father’s Day. ROSE EPSTEIN Wakefield.

lives

in

FATHER’S DAy

16 | June 5, 2015

The Jewish Voice

Quirks and smiles on Father’s Day bY sHELLEY kAtsH, LiCsW When I was growing up, there was something about my father that I found wildly amusing. I would ask him a question about a familiar object – something in our home, perhaps, or an item of clothing – and eagerly await his response. One day, I asked him to name the color of our car. I could see him thinking, searching his mind … and then came the response: “Dark?” He was the consummate absentminded professor. At dinner he could expound upon the relationship between Judaism and Islam or about the rise of antiSemitism. But ask him to name the vegetables on his plate, and he was clueless.

His inability to connect to

the basic physical plane of life was not the result of intellectual limitation; on the contrary, my father had a law degree, semikhah (Rabbinic ordination) and a Ph.D. in Hebrew and Jewish Education.

Fortunately my dad was goodnatured about his absentmindedness and did not mind being teased. Therefore, on Father’s Day each year, I usually ended up making him something to help him get along in the “real” world. One year I made him a picture book of … yes, labeled vegetables. My testing him at dinner became a game that my mother and I found hilarious.

I couldn’t fathom how he could retain the minutia needed for his work, but “cucumber” could just not make it into his vocabulary.

Father’s Day was a time to celebrate his uniqueness as well as

“One year I made him a picture book of … yes, labeled vegetables.” his role, and therefore my father’s quirks became a critical part of the day. For this same

reason on Father’s Day in my own family, it was the quirkrelated gift for my husband that elicited laughter, joy and closeness.

Those memories, which connect to feelings in ways that generic gifts may not, last a lifetime. Needless to say, the focus of the gift should celebrate uniqueness, not shine a light on a sensitive issue. And it’s not hard to create a gift that shows that you truly know the dad you’re celebrating; think of something endearing about the guy that he laughs about too, and make the most of it.

In the early 1970s, my father’s attention was focused on the plight of the Soviet Jews and other matters Jewish, not the hippies and the various new ways of rebelling that were be-

coming commonplace. Therefore when he left our apartment building one morning and saw hundreds of college students “streaking,” he ran back into the building and used the lobby phone to call my mother upstairs. “Estelle! They’re running naked in the streets!” I regret that I never made that quote into a Father’s Day Tshirt. Then again, that memory lasted well on its own. Nearly 20 years after celebrating my last Father’s Day with him, it still makes me laugh. sHELLEY kAtsH, LiCsW, is the social worker at Adoption Options, the adoption program of Jewish Family Service.

This Father’s Day think beyond the tie StatePoint – The tie has been a traditional Father’s Day gift since the holiday was first celebrated. But this year, men’s fashion experts say think beyond this staid accessory while Father’s Day shopping.

“The modern man is expressing himself in much broader ways and rounding out his wardrobe with more creativity than he has in the past,” says Denis Daly Wood, founder of Dalys 1895 (dalys1895.com), fourth-generation luxury men’s designer and online retailer.

To give Dad the gift of contemporary style, Wood offers some great Father’s Day shopping tips:

• Get inspired by Dad’s favorite hobbies. For example, if he’s an outdoor enthusiast, perhaps he would like a new sturdy backpack, hiking boots or gloves to wear during his next adventure. If he’s a writer, a leatherbound journal or engraved fountain pen are great gift ideas that could prove useful and personal.

Search for items that could help Dad better enjoy doing the things he loves.

• Dad may have his favorite suits, but buying him an accessory to accent his outfit can make him look and feel his best when he’s at the office or out to dinner. A pocket square, like a

limited edition Caravaggio silk pocket square, can add a level of sophistication to Dad’s look.

• Has your father been carrying the same wallet for years?

Upgrade his style with a wallet of a different color or texture or select a sterling silver alternative.

• Does Dad have a favorite watch that he loves to wear? Buy Dad a watch winder or watch box where he can keep his treasure.

A bracelet that complements his watch can also add a great touch to his outfit all year round.

• For the traveling dad, consider a sleek, stylish weekender bag or briefcase to amp up his

nds.Your March.Your History e i r F r u .

Yo MARCH OF THE LIVING OPEN HOUSE The March of the Living is a two-week international trip where thousands of teens (grades 10-12) from around the world come together to bear witness in Poland and celebrate in the State of Israel.

• • •

Find out how you can participate in the march (May 1-15, 2016) Meet past participants and learn all about the experience Have all questions answered to make this trip a reality for YOU!

Sunday, June 14, 2015 2:00 - 4:00pm Dwares JCC | 401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence RI RSVP to Jana Brenman, Director of Teen Engagement at 401.421.4111 ext. 181 or jbrenman@jewishallianceri.org.

“I can’t stress enough what a transformative experience it was… I’ve returned reinvigorated, motivated and inspired to be more involved in the Jewish community.”

- PAST MARCH OF THE LIVING PARTICIPANT

style even while he’s on the go.

If Dad always travels with his tablet or laptop, be sure to find a bag with tech pockets that will protect his gadgets even during takeoff.

Don’t resort to a tacky “Number One Dad” t-shirt or boring, tired tie. Take this holiday as an opportunity to elevate Dad’s style.

communiTy

thejewishvoice.org

Ellie Elbaum and Nan Levine served as co-presidents since 2008 and have been active in the section for many years.

from pAGE 1

NCJW

shut down.

The luncheon and program that followed included the official vote to disband the Rhode Island group. Levine, who called for the vote, mentioned the group’s more than 100-year history and how difficult this vote has been.

The State Policy Advocate (SPA) function will remain in

Rhode Island as confi rmed by the vote. This means that the progressive advocacy work at the Rhode Island State House done by the NCJW on behalf of women, teens and others, will continue. Thoughout the years, the NCJW has been at the forefront of advocating for women’s rights, legislation against human trafficking and family leave policy. The current SPA is Maxine Richman. She introduced Jennifer Boylan who will

17

photos | ElaiNE saNDY

eventually take over as SPA. Current members of the R.I. section of the NCJW will now become national members.

They will be able to stay on top of SPA activities as well as national news via the web and and by mail from the national office.

Belinda Lasky, director of community engagement in the New York office of NCJW spoke to the gathering about coordination of efforts on a national level. “I want to acknowledge everyone

CENTRAL

EUROPE TRIP INCLUDES

June 5, 2015 |

Maxine Richman, who will represent NCJW as Rhode Island State Policy Advocate, speaks about ongoing initiatives.

who’s been in leadership roles, men and women,” she said. “It’s clear so many of you were passionate about issues.”

And she emphasized that “we are still there, still supporting the advocacy work of the community.”

Lasky and Richman both mentioned digital advocacy and how members can participate through group emails. They encouraged members to continue to advocate through phone calls, letter writing and by testifying at the State House.

Lasky presented plaques to El-

baum and Levine. Kudos and citations came from the Rhode Island Congressional delegation as well as the governor. State Sen. Gayle Golden, an NCJW member herself, presented citations and reported that she had introduced resolutions in their names. And fi nally, an “Ode to Ellie and Nan,” by Seth Brown, son of member Barbara Brown, had members and guests smiling in their seats. frAN ostENdorf is editor of The Jewish Voice.

Jewish Alliance mission to Budapest & Berlin

MAY 8 - 15, 2016

7 nights’ accommodation at 5-star hotels MISSION CHAIRED BY: Marianne & Alan Litwin

6 days of touring in a luxury, air-conditioned bus plus one day walking tour with licensed, English speaking tour guides Da’at field representative accompanying the group from arrival to departure All site entrance fees and program fees as per itinerary Meals: breakfast daily, 5 lunches & 5 dinners

*The household minimum gift to the Jewish Alliance Annual Campaign is $5,000 *An informational meeting will take place on September 3, 2015

For more information contact Trine Lustig at 401.421.4111 ext. 223 or tlustig@jewishallianceri.org.

Hannah Elbaum, granddaughter of Ellie and Charles Elbaum, and Charles Elbaum at the May 20 event.

18 | June 5, 2015

communiTy

The Jewish Voice

Eva israel Frumson: A daughter and a wife of servicemen

bY GEorGE m. GoodWiN On May 25, I did not want to go shopping, work in my yard or winnow the stack of newspapers and magazines piled atop my desk. It being Memorial Day, I wanted to honor the people who have helped me to live a free and fulfi lling life.

Then I thought about a brief encounter that occurred about 25 years ago. After an elderly woman boarded a late afternoon bus at Kennedy Plaza and sat beside me, she remarked, “Are you studying the SpanishAmerican War Memorial?”

Yes, I was admiring that idealized bronze figure of an infantryman holding a rifle, which had been designed by Theo Alice Kitson and manufactured in a large edition by Gorham.

Erected by the United Spanish War Veterans, it has adorned the plaza since 1925.

The woman explained, “He reminds me of my father.” Until that moment, I had never considered that children of Spanish-American veterans were still living or that I might meet one. That this stranger would soon identify herself as the daughter of a Jewish veteran further boggled my mind.

Mrs. Solomon Israel Frumson proudly pointed out that perhaps I knew her nephew, Superior Court Judge Richard Israel, who had been Rhode Island’s fi rst Jewish attorney general (from 1971 to 1975). Indeed, we were members of Temple BethEl. She further explained that her father, Simon Israel, had resided in Millville, Massachu-

setts, where she was born.

On other occasions, when taking a bus to or from Kennedy Plaza, I bumped into Mrs. Frumson, who lived in the Wayland Manor. I learned eventually that she was a childless widow.

In 2003, when gathering photos for the anthology, “The Jews of Rhode Island,” which I coedited, I asked Richard Israel if he could try to dig up a photo of his great uncle, Simon Israel.

He found a wonderful clipping from The Worcester Telegram & Gazette, from about 1930, which showed a Decoration Day parade on Woonsocket’s Main Street. Simon was carrying an American flag, as he and his uniformed unit marched past Harris Fellman’s and Samuel Kameroff ’s jewelry stores. The photo was published in the anthology the following year, when, coincidentally, Eva died.

Through the miracle of the Mormon Church’s website, Ancestry.com, I soon found a onesentence story about Simon Israel in the July 17, 1945, issue of The Lowell Sun, which noted his death, at 73 years of age, in a Woonsocket hospital. He was recognized as “the only surviving Spanish-American war veteran in Millville.” Another Jewish veteran, Simon Greenberg (1878-1947), who spent most of his adult life in Providence, had also probably served with a Massachusetts regiment.

The 1910 federal census shows that Simon, 36 years of age, was living with his family in Millville Village, then actually part of the town of Blackstone. A

clothing salesman, he resided at 54 Main St. with his wife, Ethel, 29, and their children: Cyril, 11; Fred (Richard’s father), 7; and Eva, 1, all of whom had been born in Massachusetts.

The 1930 federal census shows that Simon and Ethel’s home at 42 Central St. in Millville was valued at $15,000. He and she had been born in Poland, and their native tongue was “Jewish.” He was still a “merchant” in a clothing store, but their two sons had departed. Eva, 21, a high school teacher, still lived at home. After Ethel died in 1949, she was buried beside her husband in B’nai Israel’s cemetery on Mendon Road in Woonsocket.

As for Simon’s enlistment, he no doubt had been eager to demonstrate his patriotism (more than his hatred of Spain and its empire). He became a private in Company A of Massachusetts’s Second Volunteer Infantry, which consisted of 47 officers and 896 enlisted men. The regiment joined the Fifth (federal) Army at Framingham in May 1898 and arrived in Cuba with its Springfield rifles in midJune.

Its most notable battle, on July 1, was for the town of El Caney, near Santiago in eastern Cuba. One officer and three enlisted men were killed before the town’s surrender, but four more soldiers of the Second Mass. died of their wounds.

Spain surrendered on Aug. 12, 1898, and the Second Mass. was mustered out in Springfield on Nov. 3. Two other regiments of the Massachusetts Infantry, the

Sixth and Eighth, also fought in Cuba, as did more than 1,000 men with the First Rhode Island Infantry. Alas, it cannot be easily determined if any of these volunteers were Jews.

As for my bus friend, Eva Israel Frumson, I later discovered much about her in Brown University’s archives. A graduate of Uxbridge High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree cum laude at Pembroke in 1929. Initially a teacher of English and civics at Woonsocket Junior High (from 1929 to 1939), she taught public speaking and drama at Woonsocket High for three years. In 1942 Eva married Solomon Frumson, a rabbi’s son and a 1932 Tufts Medical School graduate, in a ceremony at her brother Cyril’s home, in Uxbridge. (Cyril became a physician, Fred a lawyer.) Eva became active in B’nai Israel’s sisterhood.

Solomon, who had a general

practice in Woonsocket’s Stadium Building, served as a captain in the Army during World War II. For two years he was a surgeon in Italy and North Africa, but later took advanced training and became a psychiatrist. Eva became a member of the Women’s Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars based on her father’s service in Cuba, however. She and Solomon lived in suburban Buffalo for much of the 1950s and ’60s before returning to Woonsocket.

Solomon died in 1979, and both are buried in B’nai Israel’s cemetery. An inscription on Eva’s grave identifies her as a “former teacher” at Woonsocket High who was “caring and dedicated.” Perhaps I too should be considered one of her students.

GEorGE GoodWiN is member of Temple Beth-El.

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With a little help from our friends CRANSTON – You don’t need to be Jewish to love Israel.

On May 31, more than 200 Jews and Christians from Rhode Island enjoyed an educational night of friendship, where the love of Israel was shared by all. Hosted by StandWithUs Rhode Island and Christians United for Israel (CUFI), the event was held the building that formerly housed Temple Torat Yisrael and is now the base of CUFI’s Rhode Island chapter.

Rabbi Jonathan Hausman opened the event with a rousing call to promote awareness and speak out on Israel’s behalf.

Pastor Allen Pangburn shared his experiences in Israel last summer, his admiration for those he met and his fervent wish that all pray for peace in Jerusalem.

Professor Irving Schild, a Holocaust survivor and distinguished member of the Providence community, spoke of his experience during the war.

He fled Belgium in 1940 with his family before there was a state of Israel to seek refuge in. They ran from country to country to escape the Nazis.

Schild expressed his profound gratitude to the Christians who hid him at risk to their own lives. He spoke of his experience being among fewer than 1,000 refugees selected by the United States to be brought to a refugee camp in Oswego, N.Y. Major Eldar Bar-Or, who serves in the Paratroopers

Reconnaissance Squadron of the IDF Special Forces was in Gaza during Operation Protective Edge and spoke of his experience. He told of the care the IDF takes in preventing civilian casualties, leading them to abort 90 percent of their combat missions. He gave a moving account of the complexities involved in urban warfare.

“We have an obligation to stand by our friends who have stood with us.”

StandWithUs is a leading pro-Israel advocacy group, with chapters throughout the U.S. and internationally.

CUFI is the largest proIsrael organization in the United States with more than 2 million members. Both groups seek to educate and support Israel in the current atmosphere of misinformation and delegitimization.

Members of CUFI believe that the Jewish people have a right to live in the ancient land of Israel, and that the modern State of Israel is the fulfi llment of this historic right.

They maintain that there is no excuse for acts of terrorism against Israel and that Israel has the same right as every other nation to defend her citizens from such violent

photo | REGiNa sChilD

Pictured at the event are (left to right) Pastor Dave Marquard, Irving Schild, Bracha Stuart, Major Eldar Bar-Or and Pastor Allan Pangburn.

attacks. They have pledged to stand with Israel and to speak out wherever necessary until the attacks stop and there is peace and security with her neighbors.

The Jewish people have long known persecution, and as we see today, Christians are now facing persecution and genocide in many parts of the world. “We have an obligation to stand by our friends who have stood with us,” said Bracha Stuart, president of StandWithUs Rhode Island.

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counting on your husband’s retirement income?

Three things women should know

Women face special challenges when planning for retirement.

Women are more likely than men to work in parttime jobs that don’t qualify for a retirement plan.

And women are more likely to inbaRbaRa terrupt their KeneRson careers (or stay out of the workforce altogether) to raise children or take care of other family members. As a result, women generally work fewer years and save less, leaving many to rely on their husbands’ savings and benefits to carry them both through retirement.

But this reliance creates risk – risk of divorce, risk that retirement funds won’t be adequate to last two lifetimes (a risk that falls disproportionately on women, who outlive men on average by five years) and risk of bad retirement payout decisions. Here are three things you should know if you’re relying on your husband’s savings to carry you through retirement.

Qualified joint and survivor annuities

If your husband is covered by a traditional pension plan at work, one of the most important retirement decisions the two of you may make is whether to receive his pension benefit as

a “qualified joint and survivor annuity” (QJSA). While the term sounds complicated, the concept is simple: should you elect a benefit that pays a higher amount while you’re both alive and ends when your husband dies (a single life annuity), or a benefit that pays a smaller amount during your joint lives but continues (in whole or in part) to you if your husband dies fi rst (a QJSA)?

In order to fully understand your choices, it may help to fi rst go over how a traditional pension plan works. Typically, you’re entitled to a “normal benefit,” payable for your lifetime and equal to a percent of your fi nal pay, if you work for a certain number of years and retire at a certain date. A plan might say that you’ll get 50 percent of your fi nal pay for life if you work 30 years and retire at age 65. If you work fewer years, your benefit will be less. If you retire earlier than age 65, your benefit will also be less, because it’s paid for a longer period of time.

For example, assume Joe is covered by a pension plan at work, and his plan contains the exact formula described above. Joe retires at age 65. He’s worked 30 years, and his fi nal pay was $100,000. He’s entitled to a normal benefit of $50,000 per year, payable over his lifetime and ending at his death (a single life annuity).

But in order to protect spouses, federal law generally provides that if Joe is married, the

plan can’t pay this benefit to Joe as a single life annuity unless his spouse, Mary, agrees. Instead, the benefit must be paid over Joe and Mary’s joint lives, with at least 50 percent of that benefit continuing to Mary for her remaining lifetime if she survives Joe. (That’s why it’s called a “joint and survivor annuity;” and it’s “qualified” because it meets the requirements of federal law.)

Now, here’s where it gets a little complicated. Because the QJSA benefit is potentially paid for a longer period of time – over two lifetimes instead of one – Joe’s “normal benefit” will typically be reduced. Actuaries determine the exact amount of the reduction based on your life expectancies, but let’s assume that Joe’s benefit, if paid as a QJSA with 50 percent continuing to Mary after Joe’s death, is reduced to $45,000.

This amount will be paid until Joe dies. And if Mary survives Joe, then $22,500 per year is paid to her until she dies. But if Mary dies fi rst, the pension ends at Joe’s death, and nothing further is paid.

The plan will usually offer the option to have more than 50 percent continue to you after your spouse dies. For example, you may be able to elect a 75 percent or 100 percent QJSA. However, the larger the survivor annuity you select, the smaller the benefit you’ll receive during your joint lives.

You can rest assured that the QJSA option will be at least as

valuable as any other optional form of benefit available to you – this is required by federal law.

In some cases, it will be even more valuable than the other options, as employers often “subsidize” the QJSA. “Subsidizing” occurs when the plan doesn’t reduce the benefit payable during your joint lives (or reduces it less than actuarially allowed). It’s important for you to know whether your spouse’s plan subsidizes the QJSA so that you can make an informed decision about which option to select.

Other factors to consider are the health of you and your spouse, who’s likely to live longer and how much other income you expect to have available if you survive your spouse.

You’ll receive an explanation of the QJSA from the plan prior to your spouse’s retirement, which should include a discussion of the relative values of each available payment option.

Carefully read all materials the plan sends you. A QJSA may help assure that you don’t outlive your retirement income.

Don’t be afraid to seek qualified professional advice, as this could be one of the most important retirement decisions you’ll make.

Qualified domestic relations orders

While we all hope our marriages will last forever, statistics tell us that about 50 percent of marriages in the United States will end in divorce. And because men generally have

larger retirement plan balances, the issue of how these benefits will be handled in the event of a divorce is especially critical for women who may have little or no retirement savings of their own. Under federal law, employer retirement plan benefits generally can’t be assigned to someone else.

However, one important exception to this rule is for “qualified domestic relations orders,” commonly known as QDROs. If you and your spouse divorce, you can seek a state court order awarding you all or part of your spouse’s retirement plan benefit. Your spouse’s plan is required to follow the terms of any order that meets the federal QDRO requirements.

For example, you could be awarded all or part of your spouse’s 401(k) plan benefit as of a certain date, or all or part of your spouse’s pension plan benefit. There are several ways to divide benefits, so it’s very important to hire an attorney who has experience negotiating and drafting QDROs – especially for defi ned benefit plans where the QDRO may need to address such items as survivor benefits, benefits earned after the divorce, plan subsidies, COLAs and other complex issues. The key takeaway here is that these rules exist for your benefit. Be sure your divorce attorney is aware of them.

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22 | June 5, 2015 Jackie Brookner, 69 NEW YORK, N.Y. – Jackie Brookner, a pioneering ecological artist and educator, died on May 15. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of Sidney and Isabelle Weinstein. She received a B.A. in art history from Wellesley College in l967 and completed all work for a Ph.D. in art history at Harvard except for a dissertation, before shifting her focus to sculpture in l971.

Her early career as an artist working in cast bronze was formed in part, by the welded abstract sculpture of Isaac Witkin and by the Abstract Expressionist sensibility prevalent at The New York Studio School, where she studied with Nicholas Carrone. She had a brief stint as a co-dean there in the l970s before beginning a career at The New School’s Parsons School of Design in l980 where she taught until her death. She also taught at Harvard in the Department of Visual and Environmental Studies (VES) in 2002.

She was the recipient of numerous commissions, awards, and grants, including the Nancy Gray Foundation for Art in the Environment and the New York Foundation for the Arts.

Her writings were published in The College Art Association’s Art Journal, M/E/A/N/I/N/G, WEAD Magazine and Paper Monument’s recent book “Draw It with Your Eyes Closed: The Art of the Art Assignment.”

“Urban Rain: Stormwater as Resource,” was published in 2009.

Art and Ecology, her 1992 guestedited issue of Art Journal is considered a milestone in ecological thinking.

She was an inspiring teacher and administrator. At Parsons, she had taught in the Fine Arts MFA program since its inception and served as the interdepartmental program coordina-

OBITUARIES tor: Design for Social Change in 2000-2001. She was the recipient of The New School University, Pedagogical Innovation Grant in 2011.

In a statement about her practice, she wrote: “Hidden in the roots of our words we find what we seem to want to forget – that we are literally the same stuff as earth. My work explores this identity while undermining the assumptions and values that keep us from acknowledging it.”

She is survived by her wife Terry Iacuzzo, her brother Philip Weinstein and nephews Noah and Benjamin.

Her last site-specific installation was her own body – wrapped in a shroud, placed on a rustic plank of wood and lowered directly into the earth that she loved so much.

She worked on many meaningful projects throughout her life, most recently the Fargo Project. For information and to make a donation to the Fargo Project, please contact Colleen McDonald-Morken at C.McDonaldMorken@N DSU. edu.

Neil M. Diner, 52

WARWICK, R.I. – Neil M. Diner of Warwick died May 31 at Cherry Hill Manor in Johnston after a battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Born in Providence, a son of Robert Diner of Warwick and the late Blanche (Pauline) Diner. He had lived in Warwick for nine years. He was on the Board of Directors of the Providence Hebrew Free Loan Association.

Brother of Michael Diner of Warwick, Susan Harris of Johnston, Robert Ponte of Ocala, Fla., James Ponte of Chepachet, Rich-

The Jewish Voice ard Ponte of Arden, N.C. and the late John Ponte and Donna Howcroft. Uncle of many nieces and nephews and best friend to his dog Teddy.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the National Parkinson Foundation, Inc., 200 S.E. 1st St., Suite 800, Miami, Fla. 33131.

Burton Fain, 89 EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. –Burton Fain passed away May 31 with his family at his side. Born in Providence, he was the beloved husband of Lois (Jagolinzer) Fain, brother of the late Robert Fain, and the devoted son of the late Florence and Harry Fain.

He graduated from Brown University class of 1947 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He interrupted his college education to serve in the Army Air Corps during WWII. After serving as vice president of Walco Electric Company for 20 years, he established his own company, Burton Industries, a manufacturer of electronic motors, drives and controls. As president, he expanded business internationally and oversaw plants in Rhode Island, Connecticut and North Carolina.

The company designed and built the motor drive system for a new steel rolling mill in China, which at the time was the fastest in the world. After selling Burton Industries, he worked in sales and consulting at SafeWay Electric Motor Company until recently. Many former employees have expressed appreciation for his encouragement and mentoring, helping them to establish their own successful businesses.

He was a past president of the American Institute of Plant Engineers. He was a board member at St. Dunstan’s School and Mount Hope Day Care Center.

He was a member of Temple Beth-El and was a supporter of the annual Jagolinzer Concert at Brown University and an avid supporter of Camp Dotty, a camp for children with cancer.

His wife Lois Fain and her sister Marion Goldsmith founded the camp in memory of his beloved niece Dorothy Goldsmith Jansma.

Besides his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Debra Fain and her late husband Paul Murphy, a son, Frederick Fain, and grandchildren Michael Fain, Grant Rodgers, and Brittany Harrison Rodgers. He also leaves many cherished nephews and nieces.

He and his wife enjoyed travelling the world, eating Chinese food, spending winters in Florida, playing Gin Rummy and being with friends and family.

They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on May 28.

Donations may be made to the Leslie Yale Gutterman Religious School Endowment or the charity of your choice.

Betty Gaines Betty Gaines died on May 23 surrounded by her family. She grew up on Riverside Drive in Manhattan. During World War II, she graduated from New York University while working for the Office of Price Administration. In response to the post war influx of Jewish refugees into the United States, she assisted displaced people by helping them integrate into American Society by working for the United Services for New Americans.

In 1947, in a synagogue in Kew Garden she married Bernard Gaines, who was an aeronautical engineer.

Their careers led them to Buffalo, N.Y., where she graduated with a master’s degree in social work from the University of Buffalo. They moved to Long Island, where she practiced social work and he played a part in landing Neil Armstrong on the Moon. She devoted her life to personally assisting discarded

people and pets.

She is survived by her two sons, Bill and John, as well as their wives and her three grandchildren.

Sybil A. Goldman, 88 WARWICK, R.I. – Sybil A. Goldman of Tamarisk died May 26 at Philip Hulitar Inpatient Center.

She was the beloved wife of the late Seymour M. Goldman.

Born in Fall River, Mass., a daughter of the late Samuel and Tillie Dashoff, she had lived in Cranston for 65 years before moving to Warwick a year ago.

She was a graduate of Beth Israel Hospital, class of 1948. She was a nurse at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. She was a founding member of Temple Torat Yisrael, a former member of Temple Beth-El, a life member of Hadassah, a member of Chabad of West Bay, Ledgemont C.C., and R.I. Bridge Club.

She was the mother of Robert Goldman and his wife, Luisa, of Venice, Fla., James Goldman and his wife, Janet, of Lincoln, and Ellen Silberman and her husband, Michael, of Philadelphia, Pa. Sister of the late Evelyn Lovit and Carolyn Bogus.

Grandmother of Mitchell, Shlomy, Tracy, Leigh, Scott, Samantha and Rebecca. Great-grandmother of Jackson, Liv, Skylar and Elijah.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Hadassah, 17 Pocahontas Dr., Middletown, R.I. 02842; Chabad of West Bay, 3871 Post Rd., Warwick, R.I. 02886; or The Jewish Alliance of Greater R.I., 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, R.I. 02906.

Helen R. Lehrer, 93 CRANSTON, R.I. – Helen R. Lehrer died May 30 at Kent Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Saul Lehrer. Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Samuel and Edith (Silberman) Resnick, she had lived in Cranston for more than 20 years, previously living in Provobituaries | 23

community | obituaries

thejewishvoice.org

from page 5

shoes

campaign has raised more than $3 million, saying that there are as many ways to be Jewish as there are to be generous. Berkelhammer named some causes for which the annual campaign provides funding, including scholarships to campers, Shalom baby baskets, PJ Library books and help for vulnerable seniors. She said there are more than 300 program partners working together to achieve social justice and to experience Jewish life in the spirit of joy and generosity. To sum up, Berkelhammer stated, “Through the Alliance, we can be passionate about philanthropy.”

Sharon Gaines, board chair, introduced the featured speaker, Jane Weitzman. She explained that she met Weitzman at a Lion of Judah conference in September and invited her to talk on her two favorite topics – Jews and shoes. Weitzman was the executive vice president of Stuart Weitzman and the founding vice

from page 22

president of Stuart Weitzman retail. She led the company’s philanthropy by raising funds to support breast and ovarian cancer research and awareness. Weitzman serves on numerous boards, including the Trust Board of Boston Children’s Hospital, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee and the JTA. Recently, she published “Art and Sole,” which features more than 150 fantasy art shoes from the Stuart Weitzman collection.

One lucky attendee won the volume, which was also for sale during the event.

Weitzman opened her talk with an anecdote about a speaker who announced to the audience that the saying, “If you save one person, it’s as if you save the entire world,” was Chinese. She contemplated letting the woman know that it was a Jewish saying, but ultimately decided against it.

Unfortunate fundraising speak-

obituaries

idence. She worked for the State of R.I. Governor’s Office and Department of Administration for more than 25 years. She was a member of Temple Emanu-El, a life member of Hadassah and a Silverlife Master of duplicate Bridge.

She was the mother of Stephen Lehrer and his wife, Freda, of Cranston and Joanne Lehrer and her husband, Steven Chianesi, of Cranston. Sister of Albert Resnick of Cranston, Leon Resnick of Ariz., Frank Resnick of Cranston, and the late Anne Steingold. Grandmother of Christopher, Jennifer, Mat-

thew, Stacey, and Andrew and his wife, Jia. Contributions in her memory may be made to your favorite charity.

Norman I. Sadler, 90 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Norman I. Sadler died with his family at his side on May 26. He was the son of the late Katherine (Wolfe) and Phillip Sadler of Providence and brother of the late Harold Sadler of Cranston.

He is survived by Marika Sadler, his wife of 51 years, his son Jonathan Sadler of Providence, his son Jeremy Sadler, daughter-in-law Noi, grand-

June 5, 2015 |

23

ers seem to plague Weitzman because the second anecdote she told involved a retired head of the Carnegie Foundation, who claimed that you can make a real difference with just $5 million.

That statement is the antithesis of Weitzman’s message to her audience – she believes that it takes very little to change someone’s life. To illustrate, Weitzman told about visiting an elderly Jewish lady who lived in a communal apartment in the former Soviet Union. Even though the JDC had supplied her with such essentials as a hot plate, medicine and meals, Weitzman wanted to do more. Noticing that the woman used her ancient television as a display for her tchotchke collection, she learned that the set was broken. Weitzman gave the social worker $150 to buy this senior a television. Two months later, she received a translated letter from the lady, letting her know that Weitzman had given her a life.

The crux of Weitzman’s mes-

sage was the idea that we must take care of our own people before we help everybody else. She said that, when she was a child, 80 percent of funds Jewish people raised went to Jewish causes, while now, that figure is around 22 percent, according to the Pew Research Center. Weitzman suspects that, the number hovers somewhere between eight and 11 percent. Urging the audience to donate, she stated, “We are links in a chain that goes back thousands of years. We survive by helping each other.”

Weitzman showed some slides of people who received aid from the JDC. Among them was a man in India who “is living his life with dignity,” a woman in Cairo, Egypt, who lives in a community that benefits from donations of food and medicine, and a displaced family in Ukraine that survives gunfire on a regular basis. The audience also saw slides depicting the students in the Israeli school Weitzman sponsored. She spoke against segre-

gation, saying that she insisted that one-third of the children be Ethiopian. Since the school is extremely successful now, she is proud of her achievement. “I did this as an experiment to show that this can be done. I am happy to say that it’s working. I have gotten more out of this than I have put into it.”

Toward the end of the evening, Weitzman answered questions and shared the tale of her window dressing career at the shoe store. According to her, 90 percent of store windows feature products; she chose to do Stuart Weitzman’s windows differently.

She joked that she took the unusual path because she didn’t have a boss and could do as she pleased. Now you can see those displays of fantastical shoes on the pages of her book.

daughter Noemi of New York and several nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Hope High School, class of 1942, and Brown University, class of 1950. During WWII, he served as a Radio/ Electronics Officer in the Merchant Marine, a position he took up again on supply ships during the Korean War and Vietnam War. He also served as Chief Communications Officer aboard the NS Savannah. He was a member of Temple Emanu-El. Donations in his memory may be made to the Jewish Community Day School of R.I., Temple Emanu-El or a charity of your choice.

Leona Siskind, 99 MIDDLETOWN, R.I. – Leona (Sidle) Siskind died May 22. She was the wife of the late Morris Siskind. She was born in Baltimore, a daughter of the late Jacob and Sarah (Levinson) Sidle.

She lived in Baltimore most of her life and lived in Delray Beach, Fla., for 15 years before moving to Rhode Island in 2000.

She was the owner of the former Debbie Shop in Baltimore, retiring in 1985.

She was a life member of Hadassah and active in many charitable organizations.

She is survived by her children Bonnie Houle-Piszcz and her husband Stanley of Cov-

entry, R.I., and Paula Nichols of Walnut Creek, Calif.; her grandchildren Stacey, Jason and his wife Kirstin, and Blake and his wife Lisa; and her greatgranddaughter Emilia. She was the mother of the late Dr. Jay E. Siskind and the sister of the late Herman, Phillip, and Dr. Abe Sidle, Jeannette Lipsey and Audrey Castaline.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Jewish Eldercare of R.I., 100 Niantic Ave, Providence, RI 02907.

IRINA MISSIURO is a writer and editorial consultant for The Jewish Voice.

24 | June 5, 2015

community

The Jewish Voice

JSA holds annual meeting at Tamarisk Suzette Rabinowitz, Ken Schneider honored

BY IRINA MISSIURO imissiuro@jewishallianceri.org WARWICK – On May 21, the Jewish Seniors Agency held its 82nd annual meeting, “Putting Life into Living,” at The Phyllis Siperstein Tamarisk Assisted Living Residence. Jeffrey Padwa, president, welcomed Rabbi Ethan Adler to offer a D’var Torah. Jeffrey Savit, president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance of the Greater Rhode Island, addressed the mission of JFS and the JSA. Anya Rader Wallack, director of HealthSource RI (HSRI), the health insurance exchange created under the Affordable Care Act, spoke about the future of HSRI and Medicaid. She has worked on state health policy for 25 years, an experience she likened to “banging your head against the wall.” Rader Wallack indicated that most of the successes she’s observed recently were in terms of Medicaid – a program that serves lowincome and disabled people.

Rader Wallack said that using Medicaid to expand insurance coverage and shifting the use of services from high-end to preventive care are some of her proudest moments. She explained that a Medicaid workgroup has been tasked with identifying ways to better serve people. To achieve that, recommendations from public meetings, distilled into a report, indicate goals that include creating savings in the R.I. budget, paying for value – not volume –

Anya Rader Wallack of services and creating metrics for the program’s performance.

Even though cuts to nursing homes and hospitals are expected, those institutions performing at a high level will be able to earn them back.

Rader Wallack stated that the evolution of HSRI is at a critical point since it has to be fully state funded by July of next year. She and her team are making the case to keep the exchange in R.I. because it offers more control, better plan prices, local customer service and job opportunities.

She said, “If we can make sure it’s a sustainable operation and convince the legislature to fund it, we can provide efficiency, quality and promotion of health among population.”

Ken Schneider receives a standing ovation.

Next, Padwa gave the president’s report, speaking of JSA’s achievements in two areas.

He complimented the success of the Louis and Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Pantry, which “has become an incredible service.” The staff not only welcomes everyone in need, but also evaluates clients holistically to recognize what other services they might benefit from. So far, the pantry has distributed 200 tons of food to 6,500 households, making 10,000 visits. This year alone, the pantry reached $44,000 in donations.

Padwa characterized the JERI (Jewish Eldercare of Rhode Island) Outreach Program as “the heart and soul of the agency.” He shared Rabbi

Ethan Adler’s story to demonstrate the program’s effectiveness. While visiting an elderly woman who hadn’t spoken in a few days, the rabbi invited her to say the Sh’ma together. As the woman mouthed the words, the rabbi could see tears in her eyes. He knew that those tears were there not only because she was sad about losing her physical abilities, but also because she was appreciative of the community’s help.

“I’m kvelling after hearing all these reports. Who would have thought when we started this endeavor that we would be here today?”

Padwa said the agency faces challenges in fundraising and leadership development. A fundraising taskforce, chaired by Susan Bazar, has been organized. Also, a leadership taskforce, which Padwa is chairing, has been tasked with identifying and engaging new board and committee members and officers. He introduced three “new, young and energetic professionals” – Jason Siperstein, Adam Smith and Joshua Padwa. Last, a program development taskforce that engages experts and consultants to describe how the senior services landscape has changed has been organized (but is as yet without a chairman).

Paul Barrette, executive director, reported that Shalom Housing’s waiting list remains at 18 months, that the Rhode Island Chapter of Alzheimer’s Association has recognized Tamarisk as being at the forefront, and that the assisted living residence’s number of centenarians (four) far exceeds the national average.

James Galkin, co-chair of JSA’s “To Life Campaign,” reported that the eight-year-old

photos | IRINA MISSIURO

program has raised $4,136,571 to date, assisting Tamarisk residents with $700,000. He said that when Don Shulman, president and CEO of Association of Jewish Aging Services of North America, visited last year, he was greatly impressed, saying, “You are a remarkable agency!”

Suzette Rabinowitz received the 2015 Maurice Glicksman Leadership Award. Accepting it, she said, “I can’t think of a nicer honor.” Addressing Glicksman, who was in the audience, she called him “a treasured friend and a kind mentor.” Rabinowitz expressed pride at having accomplished the original vision – to provide more comprehensive services to elders and their families.

About the evening’s speeches, she said, “I’m kvelling after hearing all these reports. Who would have thought when we started this endeavor that we would be here today?”

Bernice Weiner presented the Women’s Association report.

She mentioned activities, such as game nights and the Knit Shoppe, which sells handmade afghans, children’s sweaters and hats made by the association’s volunteers.

After the election and installation of officers and directors, the last highlight of the night was the Presidential Award – an honor that has not been given out since 2012. Padwa explained that it recognizes volunteers who go above and beyond to give their time and energy and to make the lives of others easier. Kenneth Schneider, “volunteer extraordinaire,” received this year’s honor. Padwa said that Schneider “works in the rain, sleet and snow to make sure that food deliveries are carried out. He makes sure that our clients are not forced to live in unsanitary conditions.”

Schneider, a board member, received a standing ovation.

IRINA MISSIURO is a writer and editorial consultant at The Jewish Voice.

SEnioRS | BuSinESS

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June 5, 2015 |

25

Well-earned recognition for a Jewish-American hero bY pEtE ZUbof For the second time in his administration, President Barack Obama has made extraordinary efforts to recognize servicemen whose valor was somehow overlooked due to race, ethnicity or religion. On June 2, the president awarded the Medal of Honor to two men: Pvt. Henry Johnson, an African-American soldier, and Sgt. William Shemin, who was Jewish. As we’ve just passed Memorial Day, it seems only fitting to congratulate both of these men on achieving the recognition that they so richly deserve. A century late is better than never.

As this is a Jewish publication, I’d like to elaborate briefly on Sgt. Shemin. Born in Bayonne, New Jersey, in 1896, William Shemin played semi-professional baseball and served as a forest ranger before enlisting in the Army in October of 1917.

After basic training, Shemin was assigned as a rifleman in Company G, 47th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, stationed in France.

In August of 1918, Shemin was fighting on the banks of the Vesle River, near Bazoches. On three different occasions, he left his fortified position, exposing himself to heavy machine gun fi re, in order to rescue fellow soldiers who were wounded.

After all his superiors were either wounded or killed, he took command of his platoon until he also was wounded.

Shemin only left the battle after receiving a bullet wound to his head and shrapnel wound to his back.

Elsie Shemin-Roth, Shemin’s daughter, was instrumental in his receipt of the Medal of Honor. In an online interview, she spoke of a conversation that she had with Jim Pritchard, who had served alongside her father and was one of the three men rescued that day. Pritchard told Elsie that her father was deserving of the Medal of Honor, a far greater honor than the Distinguished Service Cross he received for his actions. According to Pritchard, Shemin’s Jewish faith had kept him from receiving that award.

Although Shemin passed away in 1973, Elsie SheminRoth never forgot that conversation. Although she apparently asked her father to pursue his Medal of Honor claim when he was still living, he was a modest man, not interested in accolades. In 2001, she began to carve her way through bureaucracy, pursuing her father’s case tirelessly, until she received a call from the president last year. He expressed his congratulations to both her father for his heroic service and to Elsie for her tenacity.

Shemin left behind more than a legacy of heroism. He instilled in his family a love for service. His son Manny served in the Air Force during the Korean War, rising to the rank of Major. Elsie’s son (William’s grandson) also served, becoming a Marine. Another son, Joe, retired recently from the Navy.

The extended family gathered at the White House to receive Shemin’s Medal of Honor in his name.

The Shemin family reminds

cranston Senior Guild trip to Foxwoods The Cranston Senior Guild is planning a bus trip to Foxwoods on Wednesday, July 8.

The cost of the trip is $22 per person. The price includes roundtrip motor coach bus, one free full buffet coupon or $10 toward food at any restaurant at the casino, and $10 bonus slot play. The bus will pick up at 9

a.m. from the Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, and 9:15 a.m. from the Rhode Island Mall near Sears Auto Center.

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us that we can be proud of both our faith and our country. Congratulations to them on achieving this important recog nition for Sgt. William Sheman, Jewish-American patriot. pEtE ZUbof is a native of Richmond, Virginia. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland and has a master’s degree from the University of Rhode Island. He’s a pilot in the United States Navy and currently on the staff of the Naval War College. Pete is also the Jewish layleader for Naval Station Newport. Pete blogs regularly for 401j. He resides in Jamestown with his wife, Morgan, their son, Logan and dog Cider.

from pAGE 21

rEtirEmENt for women to try to contribute toward their own retirement, if you’re a nonworking spouse, your options are limited. But there is one tool you should know about. The “spousal IRA” rules may let you fund an individual retirement account even if you aren’t working and have no earnings. A spousal IRA is your own account, in your own name – one that could become an important source of retirement income with regular contributions over time.

How does it work? Normally, to contribute to an IRA, you must have compensation at

Sgt. William Shemin

least equal to your contribution. But if you’re married, fi le a joint federal income tax return and earn less than your spouse (or nothing at all), the amount you can contribute to your own IRA isn’t based on your individual income, it’s based instead on the combined compensation of you and your spouse.

For example, Mary (age 50) and Joe (age 45) are married and fi le a joint federal income tax return for 2015. Joe earned $100,000 in 2015 and Mary, at home taking care of ill parents, earned nothing for the year. Joe contributes $5,500 to his IRA for 2015. Even though Mary has no compensation, she can contribute up to $6,500 to an IRA

for 2015 (that includes a $1,000 “catch-up” contribution), because Joe and Mary’s combined compensation is at least equal to their total contributions ($12,000).

The spousal IRA rules only determine how much you can contribute to your IRA; it doesn’t matter where the money you use to fund your IRA actually comes from. And you don’t need your spouse’s consent to establish or fund your spousal IRA. bArbArA kENErsoN is First Vice President/Investments at Janney Montgomery Scott LLC and can be reached at BarbaraKenerson.com.

26 | June 5, 2015

nATion

The Jewish Voice

Bridging the gap year: Hevruta program forges israeli-American bonds bY dEborAH fiNEbLUm sCHAbb/JNs.orG Eighteen-year-olds have a habit of forming close, family-like relationships with each other.

It’s rare, however, that Israeli and American teenagers living thousands of miles apart have the chance to create such bonds.

But this year, 25 teens have been doing just that as part of a fi rst-of-its-kind program.

Watching the participants of the new Hevruta program for the so-called “gap year” between high school and college, it’s hard to imagine that these young adults didn’t always know each other, much less laugh at each other’s jokes. In reality, they grew up with languages, mores, and cultures that were quite literally a world apart. Yet with Hevruta’s new wrinkle in the familiar gapyear concept, they spend the year learning and growing together in Israel–and breaking down those barriers.

Further, if the initiators of the Hevruta program fulfi ll their mission, it will be just the fi rst generation to be prepared to step into Jewish leadership roles better equipped to bridge the gap between their Israeli and American worlds.

The conversation that was destined to give birth to Hevruta (Hebrew for friend or colleague, traditionally someone you learn Torah with) took place more than two years ago in Jerusalem when Rabbi Daniel Lehmann, president of Boston’s Hebrew College, shared

with Rabbi Donniel Hartman, president of Jerusalem’s Shalom Hartman Institute, a dream he’d had for years: a gap year that would bring Israeli and American high school graduates together in learning, volunteering, and a deep sense of communal belonging.

“I told him that, since both our institutions already had high school programs, we had a great opportunity to partner on a gap year,” Lehmann tells JNS. org. The vision they shared, he says, was “forming a pluralistic community that would reflect on the unique qualities both of these centers of Jewish life – America and Israel – have to contribute to the Jewish future.”

Within a few months, the Hevruta program, a collaboration between the Hartman

Summer J-Camp

Institute and Hebrew College, began to take shape with a formula that included Jewish learning, Israel advocacy seminars, and Jerusalem volunteer opportunities. Though many such programs timidly dip a toe in the water with a soft launch or a pilot year, that was not the Hevruta way. The program was immediately recruiting aggressively and, last September, it welcomed 25 students – 17 Israelis and eight Americans – to the Hartman Institute campus.

“When I heard about the program, I liked that mix,” says Hevruta participant Aaron Tannenbaum of New York City.

“I knew from the start that I didn’t want to be isolated in an American bubble here.”

Nine months in, he gives high marks to Hevruta’s balance of learning and volunteering–and

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there was one perk that really stood out.

“For the fi rst time in my life I had chance to see myself not as a tourist but as part of Israeli life,” Tannenbaum says, explaining that following his senior year of high school that “was all about SATs and college applications,” Hevruta means “I’ll go to college with a broader view of Judaism, Israel and the world.”

Israeli program participant Noa Spielman, whose parents are American, looked high and low for the right mechina program (the Israeli term for the year between high school and mandatory military or national service). But she says that “nothing fit” until she saw an advertisement for Hevruta.

“At fi rst we didn’t see we would have anything in common, but now we are so tight that it doesn’t matter where we came from,” Spielman says of her American counterparts.

The program has also deepened Jewish learning for the 25 young adults. Israeli participant Lital Fainberg’s favorite course focused on the women and several other lesser-known figures from the bible. The education, in her eyes, comes with a particularly practical benefit.

“The children I hope to have someday are going to know more about Judaism than I did growing up,” Fainberg says.

Hevruta courses also give program participants college credit, says Rabbi Leon Morris, a Hartman Institute vice president who directs Hevruta along with educator Chaya Gilboa.

“This helps the parents feel more comfortable with the investment of time and money – especially since gap-year programs are still not de rigueur for Americans outside the Orthodox community,” Morris says.

Recruiting for Hevruta is a two-pronged undertaking, going on simultaneously in both countries. Working through dozens of American Jewish day schools and rabbis who have attended Hartman Institute programs, Morris and his team track down high school seniors with leadership potential who are likely to benefit most from the Hevruta philosophy. The Is-

raeli recruitment effort works with secular and religious high schools to pinpoint seniors who would resonate with Hevruta’s curriculum.

“We look for young people who love ideas and learning, who are animated by community service and committed to building a community together,” says Morris.

Next year’s Hevruta program is already fi lled, the rabbi reports, with half the incoming 40 participants from each country.

He says that some of the students receive fi nancial aid from a number of local sources to help defray the $25,000 tuition.

Israeli and American program participants have different–but in some ways similar–challenges to face after the gap year ends. Although their Israeli friends are destined to be in military uniforms in a few months’ time, the Americans may be preparing for another sort of confl ict–against antiIsrael elements on their college campuses.

“I feel like now we have the tools we need,” says Bostonarea resident Jonny Koralnik, who plans to attend Washington University in St. Louis in the fall. “After this year [in Hevruta], I feel 100 percent better equipped with knowledge and understanding to talk about Israel with anyone.”

Rabbi Lehmann says he has been impressed with the distance the group has traveled in maturity and cohesion. He visited with the group three times during the academic year.

“In the beginning, the Americans’ need for space and individuality confl icted with the Israeli focus on community,” he says. “But these differences soon gave way to deeper understanding and appreciation of each other. Seeing these future leaders learning to work together, it was more than we could have hoped for.”

As Hevruta’s inaugural year winds down, co-director Gilboa says she has witnessed the program’s success in closing the gap not so much in years, but in the chasm that exists between Israelis and American Jews.

“They started out as strangers and now share mutual respect, understanding and love,” she says. “We’ve seen so much change in both groups. Living, learning and working together has fostered the kind of open communication and caring between them. It’s something we know they’ll take back home with them, and use to create stronger ties between Jews.”

Perhaps program participant Jackie Bein of Stamford, Conn., puts it best.

“It’s strange, my roommate came in with the worst English of the Israelis and I had the worst Hebrew of the Americans,” she says. “But now we understand each other perfectly and we’re able to have great conversations going back and forth in both languages.”

SIMCHAS | WE ARE READ

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June 5, 2015 |

27

PHOTO | Temple Sinai

The Temple Sinai Confirmation class this year included: (front row, left to right) Cantor Wendy J. Siegel, Samantha Swerdlow, Rebecca Gupta, Lauren Knasin, Director of Education Toby Koritsky; (back row, left to right) Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser, Alex Edmiston, Jacob Meyerson, Noah Levin, Noah Cohen, Nathan Kirshenbaum. Confirmation took place May 23.

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by submitting them for Simchas or We Are Read publication in The Jewish Voice. Email to: editor@ jewishallianceri.org or mail to: The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, R.I. 02906

We Are Read – The Kaye-Phillips and Beringhause families attend the opening of “An Act of God” on Broadway. Jamie Kaye-Phillips is a producer of the show.

Congratulations Daniel Pickar graduated cum laude from Tufts University with a bachelor’s degree in biology on May 17. He will be at-

Let them be the

reason

tending Tufts School of Dental Medicine in the fall. He is the son of Myles and Nancy Pickar of Cranston.

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“I used to be the one who helped others; now I need the help.” —Stacey | Warwick, RI

Let’s change the world together.

To learn more about Aaron & Stacey and how your generosity through the Alliance Annual Campaign has helped them, scan here: or visit jewishallianceri.org/our-impact/2015-annual-campaign/

Research shows that half of the Jewish households in communities served by the Alliance face economic difficulties.

Raising funds to help support these families is a critical charge for the Alliance and the Jewish community.

Contribute to the Annual Campaign and you’re helping to care for our entire Jewish community—at home, in Israel, and around the world. To learn more or to donate today, visit us at jewishallianceri.org or call 401.421.4111.

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