March 16, 2018

Volume XXIV, Issue VI | www.jvhri.org Serving Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts

Passover

29 Adar 5778 | March 16, 2018

PHOTO | WENDY JOERING

Local students join national rally Students across the U.S. protested gun violence March 14.

At the R.I. State House, Classical High School senior and Temple Emanu-El member

Gabe Mernoff said, “We need to attack this problem with gun violence ... Students are showing them [Congress] that ignoring us is not possible.”

PHOTO | JTA, FLORENTINE FILMS

Michael Solomonov, left, stars in a documentary about Israeli cuisine.

Chef Michael Solomonov goes ‘In Search of Israeli Cuisine’

BY LUCY COHEN BLATTER

The delegation with Rabbi Klein.

Lawmakers: The American people will save the nation

BY CYNTHIA BENJAMIN

BARRINGTON – Americans must continue to be vocal and work together to turn back the triple threat of Russian interference, gun violence and a president who is “impulsive,

divisive and frequently uninformed,” U.S. Sen. Jack Reed told an overflow crowd of more than 200 people who gathered in the council chamber at Barrington Town Hall on March 4.

This assessment was shared

JTA – “I thought it was just going to be about falafel and hummus.”

That was the perception of Israeli cuisine that filmmaker Roger Sherman had when he reluctantly decided to accompany his friend, the acclaimed Jewish cookbook writer Joan Nathan, on a food tour of Israel in 2010. But the reality exceeded his expectations.

“I was blown away by what I consider to be the hottest food scene in the world,” Sherman told JTA in a 2017 interview.

“I thought, this is the perfect subject for a film.”

It was. After a successful run on the festival circuit, Sherman’s documentary “In Search of Israeli Cuisine” – which attempts to define and explore what Israeli food actually is – opened in March 2017, first in New York

LAWMAKERS | 9

Rehabilitation & Nursing Center

and then in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Philadelphia.

Other cities followed.

In general, “we don’t know anything about what goes on in Israel except for conflict,” Sherman said. “This is a portrait of the Israeli people through food.”

Sherman, whose previous

documentaries include “Medal of Honor” (2008) and “The Restaurateur” (2010), said he usually avoids having hosts in his films – “I feel they get in the way between the subjects and the viewers” – but he wanted to change up the approach for this ISRAELI CUISINE | 4

The details

The film: In Search of Israeli Cuisine The plot: Follow Chef Michael Solomonov as he explores one of the hottest food scenes in the world. He takes you to fine restaurants, home kitchens, wineries, cheese makers, to the street, and more.

When: Sunday, March 25, 3 p.m Where: Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence.

Cost: No charge, thanks to the Dr. James Yashar & Judge Marjorie Yashar Fund at the Jewish Federation Foundation Contact: Tslil Reichman for more information at treichman@jewishallianceri.org or 401.421.4111 Future screenings: Tuesday, April 12, at 7 p.m. at Temple Sinai, no charge Sunday, April 29, at 3:30 p.m. at Temple Habonim, no charge

Happy Passover

Shor t Term Rehabilitation Unit

with private rooms, free tv, phone, wifi.

LONG TERM CARE AND RESPITE SERVICES KOSHER FOOD SERVICE RI’s Closest Jewish Nursing Home.

Only 15 Minutes from Providence

Five-Star Quality Rated

By Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

CALL 508-679-6172

Online: www.fallriverjewishhome.org

2 | March 16, 2018

COMMUNITY

The Jewish Voice

INSIDE Book Review 32 Business 26-27 Calendar 11-12 Community 2-5, 13, 20-21, 27 30, 33-35 D’var Torah 7 Food 14-17 Obituaries 28-29 Opinion 6, 8-10 Passover 18-25 Seniors 31 World 29 Martin and Dianne Newman

THIS ISSUE’S QUOTABLE QUOTE “Let the seder be our forum to proclaim and inculcate an ethic of empathy for the other.”

Rabbi Alvan Kaunfer and Giveret Marcia Kaunfer

New fund will award stay in Israel to a day school teacher

BY FRAN OSTENDORF Dianne and Martin Newman have long been passionate about Jewish education and Jewish youth, and now they are once again putting that passion to work, by establishing The Rabbi Alvan Kaunfer and Giveret Marcia Kaunfer Day School Educator Award Fund.

The Newmans have already established youth programs in the Rhode Island Jewish community, such as the Sylvia Zimet Memorial Kol Kesem HaZamir Endowment, which benefits teens who sing in HaZamir Providence.

“I was fortunate enough to attend a yeshiva in New York City,” Dianne said in explaining why she and Martin created the new educator fund. “My mother was determined I’d have the best Jewish education she could find.”

The Newmans wanted that kind of education for their children, too. Ari was in fourth grade and Erica was a kindergartener when the family moved to Providence from New Jersey.

“When we moved here, we chose Schechter [now the Jewish Community Day School] for our kids,” Martin said. As

one of the early families at the Solomon Schechter Day School, housed in Temple Emanu-El in Providence, Ari was in the first graduating class.

“We believe they got a good education, both secular and Judaic, and the values that were imparted were first rate,” Dianne said.

Marcia and Alvan Kaunfer exemplify those values, the Newmans said. The Kaunfers were one of the founding families of the school and Rabbi Kaunfer, then a rabbi at Temple Emanu-El, was the founding director. Marcia taught Humash and other Judaic studies class-

es there for many years.

“We found in Rabbi Kaunfer someone who was very dedicated to the kids and went way above anything you can imagine,” said Dianne. “And to the kids, Marcia was always Giveret Kaunfer, an indication of their respect.”

This award also honors Dianne’s and Martin’s mothers, Sylvia Zimet and Lillian Newman, who were both teachers.

The biennial award, which will go to a Rhode Island day school teacher, provides the opportunity for professional NEW FUND |30

Happy Passover On behalf of all of us at the Jewish Alliance, Hag Pesah Sameah!

Mitzi Berkelhammer Chair of the Board

Adam Greenman President & CEO

jvhri.org

COMMUNITY

March 16, 2018 |

3

Emanu-El’s educational weekend to focus on art, emotion during the seder

BY JOHN LANDRY What’s the Passover seder for?

If you ask most Jews, the answers would revolve around getting together with family and retelling the story of the Exodus. Those two elements are certainly essential. But as Prof. Marc Michael Epstein points out, there’s a third, deeper answer that serves to support the two others: seders are also about feeling.

In the Torah, we’re told to follow a commandment because we were once slaves in Egypt. Many of those commandments involve treating others with respect, including foreigners and poor people.

Remembering the suffering of our ancestors helps us recognize the humanity of those who are suffering now, and reminds us not to ignore, or take advantage, of them. So it’s important to really feel that ancient suffering. We have to go beyond reciting the traditional lines and place ourselves in the mindset of our ancestors in Egypt.

Marc Michael Epstein That’s a big job for the seder, which is why it centers on a narrative: stories are far better than direct teachings at arousing emotions. And that’s why everyone needs to participate, so they can feel they are part of the story rather than just passive listeners.

That’s also why we tell the story before eating, so we feel our ancestors’ deprivation in

The Golden Haggadah the midst of Egyptian affluence.

Art can also elicit emotions, as Epstein is well aware. A professor of religion and visual culture at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York, Epstein is an expert on Jewish art, and he’s made a special study of the script for

the seder, the Haggadah. As Jewish communities gained a degree of material prosperity in medieval times, they began commissioning beautifully illustrated versions. They knew that images would help promote empathy.

Epstein will be the scholar-in-residence at Temple Emanu-El’s educational weekend, March 23-25. On Friday, March 23, at 8:15 p.m., he will speak on the topic “Praiseworthy and Beyond: The Art of Passover.” Shabbat services will be held before the talk, at 5:45, followed by dinner, at 7, featuring German cuisine.

On Shabbat morning, near the end of the service, at 11:30, Epstein’s d’var Torah will connect Shabbat HaGadol with the topic of how Jews and Christians read the Bible differently. At 1 p.m., following a Kiddush luncheon of Eastern European dishes, he will delve deeper into the Ashkenazic world in “Hasidic Insights on the Haggadah.”

Epstein’s visit closes on Sunday morning with a program

for children and young families. At 9:30, after a continental breakfast, it’s time for “Art Detectives: The Mystery of the Golden Haggadah.” The audience will examine the images of this splendid book, hand-painted in Spain in 1320.

Epstein will lead them in appreciating how those images served the fundamental purpose of Passover, as well as the particular needs of its time and place.

The educational weekend takes place a week before the start of Passover, making it an inspiring way to prepare for the actual seders – the meal as well as the storytelling.

The talks are free and will be held at Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Anyone who would like to enjoy a meal at the temple should register at www.teprov.org or by calling 401-331-1616. There is a fee for Friday night’s dinner.

JOHN LANDRY lives in Providence and serves on Temple Emanu-El’s adult education committee.

4 | March 16, 2018

COMMUNITY

The Jewish Voice

FROM PAGE 1

ISRAELI CUISINE documentary.

“Israel is such a complicated place, I needed someone to help translate that situation,” he said.

After a trip from New York to check out Zahav, a Philadelphia restaurant that a friend described as serving the best Israeli food in the U.S., Sherman had the chance to meet the restaurant’s chef and owner, Michael Solomonov.

Sherman knew immediately that Solomonov would make the perfect chef-guide for his film.

The feeling was mutual – they agreed then and there to work together on the project.

A James Beard Award winner – that’s the foodie equivalent of an Oscar – Solomonov is also the owner of Philly’s Federal Donuts and Abe Fisher, a restaurant that focuses on Ashkenazic food. Through Zahav, his flagship, Solomonov is often credited for building the popularity of Sephardic-style Israeli food in America and around the world.

Solomonov’s connection to Israel is deeply personal. He moved from there to Pittsburgh as a child, but returned as a teenager for a short time. His younger brother, David, was killed on Yom Kippur 2003 while serving in the Israeli army.

After the tragedy, Solomonov notes in the film, he became more interested in cooking foods that reflected his Israeli heritage, moving away from his classical European training.

“Attaching myself to the coun-

PHOTO | STEVE LEGATO

Michael Solomonov try the culture and the food are things that have kept me going,” he said.

While Solomonov addresses his relationships with his family and the country in the film – he also shares a story about his grandmother’s borekas – by and large he serves as a tour guide, giving Israel’s food experts and chefs a chance to shine.

Throughout the film, Solomonov dines on Israeli street food, upscale modern Israeli cuisine, Palestinian home cooking and everything in between.

“In Search of Israeli Cuisine” isn’t your typical travel-andtasting exploration – it explores tough questions surrounding multiculturalism and pluralism. Solomonov, for his part, lends a sympathetic ear when his subjects tackle complex issues surrounding kashrut, Shabbat and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The film demonstrates that while food is not inherently political, it can reflect larger social issues.

Take the central question of the film: What is Israeli food?

The answer doesn’t prove to be simple.

Michael Solomonov dines on Israeli street food.

At its core, Israeli cuisine is a combination of foods from over 100 cultures that have melded in Israel. It’s also something that comes from the land itself, which boasts a rich array of microclimates, and a product of the Palestinian people, who have lived on the land for ages.

Some of the more poignant moments in the documentary come when Solomonov speaks to Palestinian chefs about the challenges of getting Israeli customers to frequent their restaurants and in working in allIsraeli kitchens.

Husam Abbas, the chef and owner of El Babor, in the ArabIsraeli town of Umm el Fahm, says – in perfect Hebrew – that political events have affected his restaurant.

“The Jews stop coming,” he said. But, Abbas added, “food is peace.”

“If you come to eat with me, and if you come to learn my food, maybe it’s going to bring us all together,” he said.

Solomonov agrees.

“Food can bridge gaps,” he

told JTA in a telephone interview. “Especially when the traditional forms of diplomacy are not up to snuff, it’s clear the power food can have … on both sides of the aisle.

“These dishes that we’ve brought through our families and through generations stand for love, not violence. Feeding people is the opposite of alienation. I think future generations of chefs have to use that power.

Food transcends the rest of it.”

Since the documentary was filmed in 2013, Solomonov has been back to visit many times.

In a conversation with JTA, he expounded on what he had eaten that day to provide a sense of just how wide an array of foods are “Israeli.”

“I just ordered a Sabich [fried eggplant and hardboiled egg] sandwich at my hotel, which is technically Iraqi,” he said. “Later on tonight we’re going to have striper that was raised in a saltwater pond with a Turkish sunchoke puree. You stumble into those things naturally here.”

Asked whether he’s any closer

to defining the amalgamation of cuisines that is Israeli food, Solomonov says he isn’t.

“It’s a convergence of the ancient and modern, since it’s a new country, but the cooking traditions in some cases are over 1,000 years old,” he said. “It’s really about putting all these cuisines together on one plate.

“Modern chefs are embracing Israel and looking at its bounty of cultures, flavors and tastes as influences,” he said. “They’re not going to Europe as much to learn haute cuisine, instead they’re saying they want to stay here and cook Israeli food.”

When prompted, Solomonov said it was hard to narrow down what three foods visitors to Israel should eat – but he did: “You have to have an Israeli hotel breakfast, a bowl of Yemenite soup and some kind of meat and vegetable skewer cooked over charcoal at one of the kebab shops,” he said.

Nonetheless, Solomonov and the film make the case that Israeli food isn’t just about taste – it’s about culture and connection, too. In a poignant scene, Erez Komarovsky, a noted Israeli cookbook author, restaurateur and breadmaker, makes shakshuka – a traditional pepper, tomato and egg dish – with Solomonov. Komarovsky chose that particular dish, he said, because it’s like Israel and its people: “It’s hot and it’s not stuffy.”

“Food is not political,” he added. “It is what is grown on this land by the people who are living in it. If they are called Palestinians or Israelis, I don’t think the tomato[es] care.”

It’s not manna from heaven, but this Passover, provide something just as crucial to the survival of the Israeli people.

In a country where terrorism is an all-too-frequent occurrence, your gift to Magen David Adom ensures Israel’s national paramedic organization has the medical supplies it needs to save lives. So this Passover, while you recount the story of the Jews’ redemption from slavery, your gift will help modern-day Israelis survive the threats they face today.

Thank you for making a gift today and for supporting our 70 for 70 Campaign, our drive to put 70 additional ambulances on the streets of Israel in commemoration of Israel’s 70th anniversary.

AFMDA New England PO Box 600714 Newton, MA 02460 Tel 617.916.1827 new-england@afmda.org O

EDITOR Fran Ostendorf DESIGN & LAYOUT Leah Camara ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Chris Westerkamp cwesterkamp@jewishallianceri.org 401-421-4111, ext. 160 Karen Borger ksborger@gmail.com 401-529-2538

CONTRIBUTORS Cynthia Benjamin Seth Chitwood Stephanie Ross Sam Serby COLUMNISTS Michael Fink Rabbi James Rosenberg Daniel Stieglitz THE JEWISH VOICE (ISSN number 1539-2104, USPS #465-710) is published biweekly, 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, President/CEO Adam Greenman, Chair Mitzi Berkelhammer, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

Phone: 401-421-4111 • Fax 401-331-7961

MEMBER of the Rhode Island Press Association and the American Jewish Press Association

www.afmda.org

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

ADVERTISING: We do not accept advertisements for pork or shellfish. We do not attest to the kashrut of any product or the legitimacy of 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

jvhri.org

March 16, 2018 |

5

For Rabbi Klein, it’s all about helping people through good times and bad Q: Favorite Israeli city to visit? Why? A: Jerusalem, for its religious and historical value.

BY SAM SERBY Rabbi Andrew Klein, 66, was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and was ordained in 2001 at Hebrew Union CollegeJewish Institute of Religion, in New York City.

Klein became the assistant rabbi at Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, in 2003. Shortly after leaving Hevreh, in 2007, he became the rabbi at Temple Habonim, in Barrington.

Rabbi Klein lives in Barrington with his husband, Adam Mastoon.

Q: Favorite Jewish food?

A: Chopped liver. My grandma made it – I still have her hand grinder she used to make it and it reminds me of her.

Q: Favorite Jewish holiday? Why? A: Passover. Passover, for me, brings up a lot of memories of family and tradition, with all the kids sitting at the table into all hours of the night. My grandma always explained Passover to me as a bittersweet holiday, remembering the bitterness of slavery and celebrating the sweetness of freedom.

Q: Favorite Jewish song?

A: “Ani Ve’Ata.” [“You and I”] by Arik Einstein. It is all about how people can come together in partnership to make the world better. I like that song very much.

Q: Favorite Israeli city to live? Why? A: Tel Aviv, for its modernity.

Q: Favorite Hebrew word and why?

A: Lama? Tacha. [It means] Why? Just because.

Q: Favorite Yiddish word and why?

A: Ungabluzen. It describes a person who is pouty and sullen.

Rabbi Andrew Klein Q: Favorite Jewish movie?

A: “Yentl.” It is one of my personal favorites. It was directed by a woman [Barbra Streisand], and it’s a story of being brave and courageous enough to be who you are and not needing to hide who you are. It has a lot of pretty music and a great message.

Q: Favorite Jewish celebrity?

A: Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Because she was the voice of a strong and powerful woman before her time and before the rest of the country was ready for that. She continues to be the voice of strong, powerful reasoning and thinking.

Q: Best part of keeping Kosher/most difficult part of keeping Kosher?

A: I eat Kosher-style. Meaning, I don’t eat treif [pork, shellfish, etc.] I do eat some meats that are not Kosher, but I do not mix meat with dairy. I keep my variation of Kosher. I feel that eating Kosher-style connects me with the Jewish people.

There really isn’t anything I don’t like about keeping Kosher.

Q: Favorite Jewish memory from your life?

A: I loved going to Jewish camp [URJ Kutz Camp, in Warwick, New York] when I was a kid and its where I first discovered that I wanted to become a rabbi. I was there in 1967, just a couple of days after the Six-Day War. It was a very exciting time to be Jewish and I felt a lot of Jewish pride.

Q: Greatest piece of advice someone has given you?

A: “Don’t take yourself too seriously and always be able to enjoy life’s ‘ups,’ ” from my father.

Life has many ups and downs, and to be able to savor the ups as they come along is very important.

Q: If you could have three dinner guests, living or from history, who would they be

and why?

A: Theodor Herzl. Because I would like to learn more about his thinking as he formed the idea of creating the state of Israel.

My mother, because there are so many things that I did not ask her/know to ask her while she was still alive. I would love to ask her these questions now.

Sigmund Freud. I would really like to talk with him about how his Judaism impacted his thoughts on psychology, the brain and human living.

SAM SERBY is a freelance writer who lives in East Greenwich. He previously worked at the Peres Center for Peace in Tel Aviv.

Q: Favorite part of being a rabbi?

A: Getting to be with people during significant life-cycle moments, including births, deaths, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, sadness and joys. I have the opportunity to be really present with people when they are wanting some spiritual guidance.

HAPPY PASSOVER TO ALL OF OUR FOUR - FOOTED FRIENDS AND THEIR FAMILIES. GUESS WHO WOULD LIKE TO FIND THE AFIKOMEN!

Providence River Animal Hospital Dr. Jane Linden, DVM

www.facebook.com/PRAHvet

131 Point Street - Providence, RI | 401-274-PRAH (7724) providenceriveranimalhospital.com

OPINION

6 | March 16, 2018

The Jewish Voice

ZEITERION PERFORMING ARTS CENTER THE HE ARTBE T OF NE W BEDFORD

The humans of Tel Aviv are a lot like you and me

BY LARRY KESSLER

WITH

R E N OW N E D D RU M M E R & G R A M M Y® AWA R D -W I N N E R

SUNDAY

MAR 25 8PM

MARCH 11

L A DY S M I T H BLACK MAMBAZO

ANA MOURA

EA EM

OO

RH ES

FREE!

GU

MARCH 23

TS

PE

AK

BALLET

Blood, Sweat, +Tutus

AT I

B E AU T Y

A BALLERINA'S LIFE:

:K

F E S T I VA L

ER

SLEEPING

D

MOSCOW

MARCH 7

APRIL 4

TODD BAPTISTA’S

APRIL 7

ZEITERION.ORG

DOO WOP

APRIL 14

508-994-2900

SEASON SPONSOR

At its heart, Erez Kaganovitz’s “Humans of Tel Aviv” project could serve as a blueprint for what it takes to be human, not just in Tel Aviv, but across the globe.

Kaganovitz, 35, an Israeli photojournalist, was in Providence recently to give three presentations in conjunction with a month-long exhibit, at the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center, of 36 of the more than 1,000 images in his collection. Kaganovitz had one overriding message to impart during his visit: people are, well, just people – if we’d only take the time to realize that.

During his final workshop, “Humans of Tel Aviv and the Social Fabric of Tel Aviv,” Kaganovitz summed up what he’s learned from his five-plus-year project, which was based on a similar, but unrelated, project, “Humans of New York.” Among his many lessons was that we need to get out of our comfort zone to reach out to strangers.

“You have to put yourself out there, you have to approach people,” he said in recounting how the project forced him to be bold. Only twice did people show their disapproval by breaking his camera, Kaganovitz quipped.

The process, he said, taught him a vital lesson: “Every person has a story.”

Although that applies to all the photos in the exhibit, one in particular really brought home the message of how education and talking to people, instead of at them, can help to fix the world. That image showed four arms with numbers tattooed on them: the number of an Auschwitz survivor.

This is what Kaganovitz wrote about that photo: “Yosef Diamant is a Holocaust survivor who survived the horrors in the death camp at Auschwitz. He is the only survivor of his immediate family. His parents and three brothers were all murdered.

“The Dayament-Sager family decided to tattoo Yosef’s Holocaust number on their forearms as a tribute to him, so as to never forget what happened.

“Arik, Yosef’s grandson, decided to get the tattoo after a lot of consideration. ‘I had to think about the decision very carefully, and, at first, my grandfather was reluctant about it, but in the end, he asked me: ‘When your grandson will see the tattoo, will you tell him about me?’ “ ‘We decided to add a small diamond next to the number in honor of our family name, Diamant, which means diamond in German.’ ” When Kaganovitz posted that entry online, he said he heard from people in the Arab

and Muslim worlds – he said he has 10,000 social media followers in those communities – who said they had never before understood the Holocaust and “why you established the state of Israel.”

It’s the possibility of reaching that level of understanding among different cultures and nations that makes the “Humans of Tel Aviv” project so compelling. Kaganovitz’s photos help us realize that while many people are trying to divide us, we have the power to overcome our differences “The bottom line is it’s about connection … it’s [about] engaging people. … It’s about people to people [contact] and not only about governments,” he said of his goal in starting and continuing the project.

That approach has worked well for Kaganovitz. Whether it’s a Holocaust-related photo, a story and long narrative about Rafi Eitan, the man who helped capture Nazi kingpin Adolf Eichmann in Argentina in 1960, or his many lighter and humorous subjects – including a lion walking around Tel Aviv and a stuffed monkey sitting on a tree while people stroll by – Kaganovitz has demonstrated a knack for connecting with strangers.

He’s especially effective when he tackles the sensitive subjects of religion and racism. His photos include religious and ultraOrthodox Jews who are also gay, Jews of color from Africa, and Israelis of Arab descent.

One message, posted alongside a woman who was born in Addis Abba, Ethiopia, and came to Israel when she was a baby, is particularly instructive: “Personally, I’ve never encountered racism, but I know a lot of Ethiopians who have.

In the bottom line, it all comes down to education. It’s about time people will understand that there is no difference between white and black; they’re only different shades, all on the same color spectrum.”

Kaganovitz’s inherent humanity is apparent in his photos, especially in one showing three Muslim women wearing burkas sitting on a beach looking out. “The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries or the way she combs her hair,” he wrote.

His message of reaching out is something that we would do well to take to heart in these days when so many of us are becoming alienated from one another by ideology, religion, politics, and by “likes” on social media.

“We need more leaders than politicians,” Kaganovitz said.

Amen to that.

LARRY KESSLER is a freelance writer who can be reached at l ke s s l e r1@ c o m c a s t . n e t .

D’VAR TORAH

jvhri.org

Viewing sacrifices in a whole new light Whenever we start reading the Book of Leviticus, or Vayikra, as it is known in Hebrew, I begin to feel guilty. Vayikra is dominated by chapter after chapter that define the laws of sacrifices. As a liberal Jew, the idea of sacrifices is hard for me to wrap my head around.

I understand RABBI that at the core ALAN of these rituFLAM als is the deep human desire to come as close as possible to divinity. In English, the verb “to sacrifice” means “to make sacred,” while the Hebrew word “korban” or “le’hakriv,” comes from the same root as “to come near, to draw close, to approach.”

Still, the extensive descriptions of sacrifices, the killing of animals, the sprinkling of blood, and the many details about priestly behavior leaves me confused and often alienated.

If that is how you also feel, take comfort: you are not alone.

Ambivalence about the sacrificial cult permeates Jewish thought from the time of the ancient pre-exilic prophets and the Psalms to the rabbis of the Talmud and midrash, the major medieval philosophers and contemporary religious thinkers.

It has left its imprint on our liturgy and is still the subject of heated debates.

The words of the prophet Amos (7th-century B.C.E.) regarding the ancient temple rituals are illuminating and resonate with my sense of Judaism and its demand to work for a world of justice and equity.

“I hate, I despise your feasts,

and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. If you offer me burnt offerings, or your meal offerings, I will not accept them ... but let justice well up as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.” (Amos 5:21-24) Given these strong sentiments and the contradictory attitudes toward sacrifices throughout Jewish history, what do we do with the many chapters in the Torah and the massive amount of writing devoted to these laws and practices?

We are fortunate to be part of a tradition that is grounded in interpretation rather than a literal reading of Torah. The genius of Judaism was to embrace midrash, an interpretive act that seeks answers to religious questions (both practical and theological) by plumbing the meaning of the words of the Torah. Midrash responds to contemporary problems and crafts new stories, making connections between new Jewish realities and the unchanging biblical text. This flexibility has enabled Judaism to survive and flourish as a religious civilization throughout the ages.

So, how might we read Vayikra from a midrashic, interpretive point of view? Here is one example from the second verse of Vayikra (Leviticus 1:2), which is addressed not to the Levites and priests, but to the entire people.

“Speak to the Israelite people, and say to them: When any of you presents an offering of cattle to the Lord, he shall choose his offering from the herd or from the flock.” But, on a closer look, the Hebrew could be literally translated as, “if any person brings of yourselves a sacrifice unto the Lord, etc.” Not “any of you” but “bring of yourselves” an offering. This somewhat awkward turn of phrase

gives room to several interesting interpretations, all sharing a common theme – that Torah demands that the sacrifice be part of yourself.

When, by the grace of God, one is allowed to substitute the sacrifice of an animal for the sacrifice of oneself (as happened to Isaac, who remained the prototype of an offering), one should bring it “from the herd or from the flock.” Further, when making an offering, one must not bring something that does not really belong to him, not a wild beast, or “surplus” materials, but a bull or a goat that comes from one’s own flock.

A person’s riches were measured in ancient times by the size of their herd. Sheep and cattle were money to them. God does not want a sacrifice that does not rightfully belong to you personally, or which you do not see as if you yourselves were vicariously offered on the altar.

In other words, when one makes an offering, one must teach herself to give away that which she needs for herself, not just what is surplus or can be taken as an income-tax deduction.

I believe that the book of Vayikra, on closer investigation, can teach us a lot about our ability and obligation to lives of holiness.

RABBI ALAN FLAM, who recently retired, is on the Steering Committee of the Interfaith Coalition to Reduce Poverty and is the organizer and rabbi for Soulful Shabbat, a Saturday morning service that emphasizes silence, chanting, gentle stretching and meditation along with traditional davening and Torah study. He can be reached at alan.flam@gmail. com.

First Jewish university to open in Russia JTA – The Chabad-affiliated Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia is opening what it is calling Russia’s first Jewish university.

Modeled after Yeshiva University in the United States, The Jewish University of Moscow is a private institution with a student body of 200 whose budget comes mostly from donors and the Federation, dean Alexander Lebedev told JTA recently. It will open next month.

The university – whose faculties include economics, law, humanities and Jewish studies – comprises two existing Jewish community colleges: Institute XXI Century for men and Institute Machon CHaMeSH for women. Their reconstitution as campuses of a single, staterecognized university is a first in Russian history, according to Lebedev.

In the new institution, “stu-

dents will have the possibility to observe Torah, Kosher food, Jewish holidays and Shabbat,” he said. The Jewish University of Moscow “will keep this format of education, like Yeshiva University, to become the one strong recognizable brand” in its field, he added.

Most of the 200 students who will begin studying in the university when it opens are on a scholarship paid by the donors and the federation led Rabbi Alexander Boroda and Berel Lazar, a chief rabbi of Russia.

Many of the students will also live in the dormitories of the new facility, which is located in northern Moscow.

An additional 10,000 students will receive educational services by the university remotely, organizers asserted.

Lebedev declined to name his institution’s initial budget.

“Our goal is to create the

first university in our country where students will be able to obtain high-quality higher professional, academic and religious education,” Boroda told InterFax. Separately, a Kosher and vegetarian supermarket opened near the main synagogue of St. Petersburg this month.

March 16, 2018 |

7

Candle Lighting Times Greater Rhode Island March 16 6:34 March 23 6:42 March 30 6:51 See Passover candle times below.

A Kosher & Happy Passover

B’H

2018 Holiday Schedule 5778

Remember

Search for Chometz – Thursday night, March 29 Fast of first-born – Friday, March 30 2018

5778

Friday, March 30

Providence time only Eating of Chometz: until 10:30 a.m.

Burning of Chometz: before 11:30 a.m.

Passover begins:

6:50 p.m.

Seder begins at:

7:55 p.m.

Passover ends:

Saturday, April 7 at 8:00 p.m.

Candle lighting times for Passover 2018 Providence time

Friday, March 30 ............6:49 p.m.

Saturday, March 31........7:52 p.m.

Thursday, April 5 ............6:55 p.m.

Friday, April 6 .................6:57 p.m.

Blessings

Blessing

March 30: ..First Eve of Passover .................. 3 & 2 March 31: ..Second Eve of Passover ............. 1 & 2 FRIDAY — YOM TOV, ERUV TAVSHILIN April 5 ........Seventh Eve of Passover ............ 1 April 6 .......Eighth Eve of Passover ............... 3 #1 BO-RUH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU MELECH HO-OLOM A-SHER KI-DE-SHA-NU BEMITZ-VO-TOV VI-TZI-VO-NU LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL YOM-TOV #2 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU MELECH HO-OLOM SHE-HEH-CHE-YOH-NU VIKIYE-MONU VE-HE GE-O-NU LEZ-MAN HA-ZEH #3 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU MELECH HO-OLOM A-SHER KI-DE-SHA-NU BEMITZ-VO-TOV VI-TZI-VO-NU LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BAT SHEL YOMTOV Special instructions for holidays (but not Shabbat).

On holidays it is forbidden to create a new fire by striking a match, lighter, etc. However, it is permissible to use a flame already burning continuously since before the inception of the holiday, such as a pilot light, gas or candle flame.

Courtesy of Chabad House – Lubavitch • 360 Hope St. • Providence, RI 02906 401-273-7238 Please do not destroy or deface this card.

8 | March 16, 2018

OPINION

A question of coverage and timing A reader recently wrote asking why The Voice didn’t report on the five Jewish victims of the Parkland, Florida, school shooting on Feb. 14.

He was distressed that the Jews in this tragedy received no special mention in our Rhode Island community newspaper.

The answer involves timing and coverEDITOR age that we often have no FRAN control over, OSTENDORF whether in the Parkland tragedy or in just about any other important story in the paper – local, national or international.

The events in Florida unfolded after 2 p.m. on Feb. 14.

Because of social media and the 24/7 news cycle, the world started hearing about the massacre almost immediately.

The Feb. 16 Jewish Voice went to the printer on Feb. 14, right around the time that news reports began. And since we do not generally cover national and international news unless there is a Jewish angle, we did not hold off on printing the paper because we didn’t yet know that Jewish students and staff were among the victims.

By the time the next edition was ready to be put together two weeks later, the names of those who had died at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School had been widely reported in the mainstream national media.

Our assumption was that our readers knew the ins and outs of what had happened and who the victims were, both Jewish and non-Jewish.

We also rely on the JTA – the Jewish Telegraphic Agency – for our national and international coverage and commentary. This is a subscription service used by many Jewish newspapers. But the JTA doesn’t cover everything involving Jews, and some of its stories come in too late for our

production cycle, or at a length that is too great for our limited space.

For those who want broader coverage of Jewish news, we have a section on our website called “The Jewish reader” that pulls in articles from several Israeli papers. It’s listed under both the News and Jewish Life tabs on our website (jvhri.org) or you can go there directly (jvhri.org/feeds). We plan to expand this section so you can easily find more national and international Jewish news, but the feed is automated, so we can’t control what appears there.

In a survey we conducted in 2016, readers told us that they do not look to The Jewish Voice for national and international news. And that’s as it should be.

Our focus is on bringing you news of our local community that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s not that adding our coverage on national or global stories wouldn’t be of value, but we just don’t have the resources or space to do so.

So, we printed an article about a group of Parkland students who attended a Chabad conference, and the strength and comfort they got from that experience (http://bit. ly/2FwfW6J). This was news you probably didn’t see anywhere else.

This week, you’ll see an article about how “Never Again” is being used by these students and others on the issue of gun control, another story you probably haven’t seen anywhere else.

By moving beyond the breaking news of the actual incident, we hope we’re adding to your knowledge, rather than repeating what you already know.

We try to publish reports that focus on Jewish angles that you don’t normally see. And we will always maintain our focus on the Rhode Island community.

Thank you to the reader who brought up the question and allowed me to explain how we produce your community newspaper.

Next time in The Voice LOOK FOR US IN THREE WEEKS

COMMUNICATE WITH US

We’re taking a little Passover break. We’ll be back on April 6 with our Spring Home and Garden issue. It will be a little taste of spring after a March of nor’easters.

Have an idea or a comment?

Sent it via email to editor@ jewishallianceri.org or regular mail: Editor, The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

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

Ruth Oppenheim: A life beyond survival At the age of 90, Ruth Oppenheim remains an elegant woman. Though one can detect traces of a German accent in her voice, her spoken English is both graceful and IT SEEMS flawless. Her mastery of the TO ME written word is evident in RABBI JIM her published work – her ROSENBERG article on Kristallnacht in the April 1985 issue of Moment magazine has received much deserved praise.

I brought my young family to Barrington in the summer of 1974 to begin my career as rabbi at Temple Habonim. Ruth and her husband Walter – who was later to serve a two-year term as president of our growing synagogue – were among the first couples to greet us.

To this very day, my wife, Sandy, and I cherish our friendship with Ruth. As her rabbi, I have also had the opportunity to meet her grown children, Claudia and Jeff, on several occasions, and I had the privilege of officiating at the June 1982 wedding of Jeffrey to Valerie Shor.

During the 44 years that I have known Ruth, she has told me much about her childhood in Germany, her difficult adjustment to life in the States as a refugee from the murderous Nazi regime, and the gradual process – and project – of her Americanization. Nevertheless, it was not until I read and reread her 2016 memoir, “Beyond Survival: The Story of my Life,” that I have been able to piece together her shared memories into a coherent picture.

Ruth tells her readers that her “intention in writing the memoir has been to record people and events in my life for the edification of the current and future generations of my family.” What she is too modest to say is that her memoir also serves to edify all those who seek insight into the tragedies and triumphs embodied in the immigrant experience; her personal story sheds light upon the lives of millions of others who have come to America’s shores.

Ruth was born on Nov. 28, 1927, the third daughter of

Albert Heimann and Rosa Fromm. She grew up in Werne, a town in northwestern Germany that had only 10 Jewish families. Her memories of her childhood are darkened by the harsh realities of Nazi rule: “The fervor of the Nazi movement reached Werne during my first year in the Hochschule [school]. A decree was passed that Jewish students could not participate in any way other than attending class. We had to sit in the back of the classroom.

No one was allowed to speak to us or associate with us, even during recess. I remember my embarrassment as I stood alone in the playground while former friends chatted and giggled …. I would try to be invisible behind a tall tree.”

After the terror and trauma of Kristallnacht, on Nov. 9, 1938, Jews were no longer permitted to attend public schools. Ruth had no alternative but to study at the nearest Jewish school, 12.5 miles away in Dortmund.

Though not all that far from Werne, the school was difficult to reach by public transportation in time for the earliest class. Nevertheless, Ruth managed to make new friends there who filled the void left by “the local playmates” who were forbidden to associate with her.

In May 1939, Ruth’s oldest sister, Julia, then 15, left for America. In August, their father Albert followed, intending to bring his wife, Rosa; Ruth’s older sister, Hannelore; younger brother, Herbert; and Ruth herself as soon as possible.

After much drama – hopes raised, hopes crushed, hopes raised again – on Jan. 24, 1940, the four of them set sail on the SS Veendam from Rotterdam, in the Netherlands, to New York City.

The six Heimanns were reunited in their crowded two-bedroom apartment at 248 Audubon Ave. in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan. Like almost every other immigrant family, they struggled with learning a new language, earning enough to make ends meet, adapting to a different culture.

With an eye for detail and remarkable recall, Ruth documents those early years as a stranger in a strange land: “Most of the time I felt like an outsider, self-conscious of my German clothes and my different ways. I remember the first American dress I bought at

Klein’s discount store in downtown New York. It was light blue with a white sailor collar, trimmed with matching light blue piping. I liked myself in my American dress.”

With the passage of time, Ruth felt herself becoming an American. On June 21, 1947, she married Walter Oppenheim, who eventually prospered in the jewelry business. Though the 1960s were a turbulent time for America, Ruth tells us that their children, Claudia and Jeff, “spared us teenage revolts.

They were protective of their Holocaust-surviving parents.”

In August 1968, Ruth and Walter took their children to Germany. As the family neared Werne in their rental car, Ruth was flooded with disturbing memories of the town she had not seen for 28 years.

Later, sitting with her husband and children in the dining room of the only hotel in Werne, she reflected: “The few assembled townspeople greeted us with silent stares …. Throughout an uncomfortable silence prevailed, and I found it difficult to swallow my food. We left as soon as we could, strangers among xenophobes.”

Ruth returned to Werne in 1980, 1983 and 2007. While still not comfortable in that environment, these subsequent visits were not nearly so painful.

The title of Ruth’s memoir, “Beyond Survival,” expresses the richness of her life in America: marriage, children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, a 21-year career at Brown University as a beloved and respected office manager (15 years with the English department, six years as manager of the Dean of the College office).

Though Ruth is a survivor of the horrors of Nazi Germany, she does not define herself as one; rather, she sees herself as a woman who has created a life that has extended far beyond the act of surviving.

It is precisely because Ruth Oppenheim has demonstrated the strength, the courage, the determination to live “beyond survival” that so many of us consider her an inspiration.

Those who want to contact Ruth Oppenheim can email her at ruthop@fullchannel.net.

JAMES B. ROSENBERG is rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim in Barrington.

Contact him at rabbiemeritus@templehabonim.org.

COLUMNS | LETTERS POLICY The Jewish Voice publishes thoughtful and informative contributors’ columns (op-eds of 500 – 800 words) and letters to the editor (300 words, maximum) on issues of interest to our Jewish community. At our discretion, we may edit pieces

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

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

OPINION

jvhri.org

March 16, 2018 |

9

ANALYSIS

How Never Again evolved from a Holocaust slogan to a universal call

BY EMILY BURACK JTA – After a gunman took the lives of 17 students and staff at their high school in Parkland, Florida, students there launched a national campaign to promote gun control. They called for a major protest in Washington, D.C., on March 24, and are encouraging similar protests and student walkouts across the country.

And they took a name for their campaign, #NeverAgain, that has long been linked to Holocaust commemoration.

Parkland junior Cameron Kasky is credited with coining the hashtag. A Twitter account for the movement, NeverAgainMSD, is described as “For survivors of the Stoneman Douglas Shooting, by survivors of the Stoneman Douglas Shooting.”

Some supporters of the students’ efforts are put off by their use of Never Again. Lily Herman, writing in Refinery29, said “it’s very uncomfortable to watch a term you’ve used to talk about your family and people’s own heritage and history be taken away overnight.”

Malka Goldberg, a digital communications specialist in Maryland, tweeted, “When I saw they’re using #NeverAgain for the campaign it bothered me, b/c many Jews strongly [associate] that phrase with the Holocaust specifically. For a second it felt like cultural appropria-

tion, but I doubt the kids knew this or did it intentionally.”

Hasia Diner, a professor of American Jewish history at New York University, is unfazed by the students’ use of the phrase. While some may object to the phrase Never Again being reappropriated for gun control, it “does not mean that reaction is appropriate or reasonable,” she told JTA. While some have traced the phrase to the Hebrew poet Isaac Lambdan’s 1926 poem “Masada” (“Never shall Masada fall again!”), its current use is more directly tied to the aftermath of the Holocaust. The first usage of Never Again is murky, but most likely began in postwar Israel.

The phrase was used in secular kibbutzim there in the late 1940s; it was used in a Swedish documentary on the Holocaust in 1961.

But the phrase gained currency in English thanks in large part to Meir Kahane, the militant rabbi who popularized it in America when he created the Jewish Defense League in 1968 and used it as a title of a 1972 book-length manifesto. As the head of the American Jewish Committee, Sholom Comay said after Kahane’s assassination in November 1990, “Despite our considerable differences, Meir Kahane must always be remembered for the slogan Never Again, which for so many became the battle cry of post-

PHOTO | JTA, ALEX WONG/GETTY IMAGES

Students protesting against gun violence on Capitol Hill, Feb. 21, 2018.

Holocaust Jewry.”

For Kahane, Never Again was an implicitly violent call to arms and a rebuke of passivity and inactivity. The shame surrounding the alleged passivity of the Jews in the face of their destruction became a cornerstone of the JDL. As Kahane said, “the motto Never Again does not mean that ‘it’ [a holocaust] will never happen again.

That would be nonsense. It means that if it happens again, it won’t happen in the same way.

Last time, the Jews behaved like sheep.”

Kahane used Never Again to justify acts of terror in the

name of fighting anti-Semitism.

In the anthem of the Jewish Defense League, members recited, “To our slaughtered brethren and lonely widows: Never again will our people’s blood be shed by water, Never again will such things be heard in Judea.”

Later, Kahane’s violent call for action was adapted by American Jewish establishment groups and Holocaust commemoration institutions as a call for peace, tolerance and heeding the warning signs of genocide.

These days, when the phrase is used to invoke the Holocaust, it can be either particular or universal. Israeli Prime Minis-

FROM PAGE 1

LAWMAKERS

by U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Rep. David Cicilline at the community forum, hosted by Temple Habonim, that was originally scheduled to be held at the temple.

“Welcome to Temple Habonim,” Rabbi Andrew Klein said in opening the program, drawing a laugh.

The event was moved to Barrington Town Hall because the temple was still waiting for electricity to be restored after the nor’easter that swept across the Northeast on March 1-2, leaving many in the dark, including many in the audience.

“This is a challenging time for our nation … when cooperation and compromise seem nonexistent,” Klein continued before introducing the lawmakers, who got a big hand.

In brief opening statements, all three Democrats made the same point: “If our democracy is to be saved, it’s because of the active participation of people across this nation,” as Cicilline put it.

Cicilline said one of the first acts of Republicans under the

A light hearted moment during the Town Hall March 4.

Trump administration was to try to shut down the House Ethics Office. It was only the loud protests of Americans that caused the administration to reverse itself, he said.

“Frankly, it should not be this hard, but that’s where we are at this moment in time,” he said.

“Stay engaged — the very future of our country depends on it.”

Reed said, “Ultimately our strength is we do come together.”

Whitehouse said that in both Washington and Rhode Island, he hears from people who are very interested and concerned about what is happening in the government, from denying climate change to labeling the work of the intelligence and justice communities “a witch

hunt.” The good news, Whitehouse said, is that “we’re holding our own in Congress” and government agencies are still making good decisions.

“Over and over, you see the system that our founding fathers set up” working to temper the current administration, he said.

Audience members questioned the lawmakers on everything from the Dreamers to student loans, the Electoral College, violence in Syria and local power plant plans, but it was a statement – not a question – that drew the biggest response.

“I’m pleading with you, take on the NRA,” said the Rev. Ralph Mero, of Providence.

“You’ve got to find a way to stop the possession of instruments of war in the hands of men who

cannot control their actions.

You’ve got to do this.”

The audience rose to their feet as they applauded Mero’s comments.

Reed said, “Amen.”

Cicilline, who recently introduced a bill to ban assault weapons, thanked the group Moms Demand Action for their fight against such weapons. But, he said, “The only way we’re going to change the gun laws in this country is to change the Congress.”

Key to that, the lawmakers said, is for Democrats to win the midterm elections in November.

Asked about their stance on federal bills that could impose fines and prison time for boycotting Israel, Cicilline stated his strong opposition to the

ter Benjamin Netanyahu tends toward the particular when he uses it to speak about the need for a strong Jewish state in the wake of the Holocaust.

“I promise, as head of the Jewish state, that never again will we allow the hand of evil to sever the life of our people and our state,” he said in a speech at the site of the former AuschwitzBirkenau death camp marking International Holocaust Memorial Day in 2010.

But Netanyahu has also used the phrase in its universal sense of preventing all genocides. After visiting a memorial to the victims of the Rwanda genocide in 2010, Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, wrote in the guestbook, “We are deeply moved by the memorial to the victims of one history’s greatest crimes – and reminded of the haunting similarities to the genocide of our own people. Never again.”

T hen-P resident Ba rack Obama also used the phrase in its universal sense in marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2011.

“We are reminded to remain ever-vigilant against the possibility of genocide, and to ensure that Never Again is not just a phrase but a principled cause,” he said. “And we resolve to stand up against prejudice, stereotyping and violence – including the scourge of anti-SemiNEVER AGAIN | 13 Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. All three lawmakers said, however, that the current bills need to be improved before coming to a vote.

“We need dialogue,” Reed said. “We should be looking for common ground, not pointing fingers, which I think this bill does.”

On Robert Mueller’s probe of Russian interference in U.S. elections, Whitehouse said, “We have to make the message very clear that there will be tremendous political consequences” if President Donald Trump fires Mueller. He added that it must be a bipartisan message.

“When a president tries to obstruct justice, he is accountable,” Whitehouse said.

The lawmakers said the goal of the Russian interference is voter suppression, and the best defense against that is voting.

“We have to commit ourselves to vote. That’s what being an American is,” Reed said.

“Get everyone you know out to vote. If we do that, it will be the American people guiding this country.”

CYNTHIA BENJAMIN is an editor and writer. She is a member of Congregation B’nai Israel, in Woonsocket.

OPINION

10 | March 16, 2018

The Jewish Voice

Technical error Due to a problem with a corrupt file, pages 8 & 9 of the March 2 issue did not print properly, and several stories were cut off mid-sentence.

The affected stories are reprinted below.

Adam I and Adam II – and why we need both In his introduction to “The Road to Character” (Random House, 2015), New York Times columnist David Brooks acknowledges his indebtedness to Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik (1903-1993).

In his 1965 IT SEEMS book, “The Lonely Man TO ME of Faith,” the rabbi develops RABBI JIM a distincROSENBERG tion between “Adam I” and “Adam II.” As Brooks puts it, “Soloveitchik noted that there are two accounts of creation in Genesis and that these represent the two opposing sides of our nature, which he called Adam I and Adam II.” The tension between Adam I and Adam II appears and reappears as a leitmotif throughout the 10 chapters of Brooks’ book. The author sees Adam I as a person who embodies what he calls “résumé virtues,” those practical and discernible qualities which an individual lists on a job application: particular talents, a self-confident display of

usefulness, the brazenness to push the “Big Me.” In contrast, Adam II represents the “eulogy virtues,” internal strengths that are not so easy to observe from the outside: quiet qualities of character and morality that slowly develop over the course of a lifetime. Adam II’s profound humility is expressed in a willingness to suppress the needs and desires of the self for the sake of the larger community.

Brooks writes, “While Adam I wants to conquer the world, Adam II wants to obey a calling to serve the world …. While Adam I asks how things work, Adam II asks why things exist, and what ultimately we are here for ….

While Adam I’s motto is ‘Success,’ Adam II experiences life as a moral dance.”

The virtues of Adam I and Adam II are not mutually exclusive; we need both. Most of us need to develop the résumé virtues of Adam I in order to become gainfully employed.

As one of my high school English teachers used to say, “‘Man does not live by bread alone,’ but bread helps.” That is to say, we need to earn a living well before we need to earn a favorable eulogy.

Though he is concerned about our society’s excessive emphasis on Adam I, Brooks admits that the cultural shift in the 1950s and 1960s favoring such Adam I virtues as pride and self-esteem “had many positive effects; it helped correct some deep social injustices. Up until those years, many social groups, notably women, minorities, and the poor, had received messages of inferiority and humiliation …. The culture of self-esteem encouraged members of these oppressed groups to believe in themselves, to raise their sights and aspirations.”

Brooks explores this tug of war between the values of Adam I and Adam II in eight chapters that offer succinct and penetrating biographies of eight men and women, all of whom, though deeply flawed, overcame early adversity, conquered their demons – or at least tamed them – and made major contributions to the larger world. By the end of their lives, each of these individuals had achieved a better balance between the values of Adam I and those of Adam II. However, it was the Adam II in each of them that led them out of themselves and into the service of others.

Chapters 2-6 focus on five Americans, all born in the 19th century, who helped strengthen the moral fiber of our country in the 20th century: Frances Perkins (1880-1965), Franklin D. Roosevelt’s secretary of labor throughout his presidency and the first woman to serve in the president’s Cabinet; Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969), hero of World War II and our 34th president; Dorothy Day (18971980), a leading figure in the Catholic Worker movement; George Marshall (1880-1959), chief of staff of the U.S. Army during World War II and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953; A. Philip Randolph (1889-1979), a prominent African-American leader of the civil rights movement.

In Chapters 7-9, Brooks moves back in time and crosses the Atlantic to examine how Adam I and Adam II played out in the lives of three other well-known individuals: George Eliot, born Mary Anne Evans (1819-1880), an English writer especially known for her novels; St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430), a major figure in the development of Western Christianity; Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), an Englishman of letters who published “A

Dictionary of the English Language” in 1755.

With his characteristic cautious moderation, Brooks writes near the very end of “The Road to Character” that we do not need to replace the values of Adam I with the values of Adam II; rather, our task is to bring the résumé virtues of Adam I and the eulogy virtues of Adam II into healthier balance.

“It is probably necessary to have one foot in the world of achievement but another foot in a counterculture that is in tension with the achievement ethos. It’s probably necessary to reassert a balance between Adam I and Adam II and to understand that if anything, Adam II is more important than Adam I.” It seems to me more than a little ironic that David Brooks, once identified as a conservative voice on the New York Times op-ed page, is now seen by many members of the Republican Party as subverting their cause precisely because he insists on moderation and balance.

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

Writing retreat in the Negev desert sparks inspiration

LETTERS HOME DANIEL STIEGLITZ Most of us search for community in one way or another. One of the communities I’ve sought out in Israel is writers, both while getting a master’s degree in creative writing from Bar Ilan University and while writing about events in and around Jerusalem.

So my interest was piqued when I heard that there would be an overnight writing retreat that would only cost 250 shekels (about $75). My first reaction was, “Yeah, right. Too good to be true.” Fortunately, I was proven wrong.

This past December, about 14 other writers and I met in southern Israel, in the Negev, a desert region. The event was partially subsidized and organized by Nefesh B’Nefesh, an organization that helps people from North America and the

United Kingdom make aliyah (immigrate) to Israel. A few years ago, the group started its southern division of the Go Beyond Department of NBN to encourage olim (immigrants) to go beyond key urban centers, such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, to find out what southern Israel has to offer. The event was organized by Gahl Pratt Pardes, a writer who lives in the south, and Amanda Gold, who works in Nefesh B’Nefesh’s southern office.

After meeting in Be’er Sheva, the largest city in southern Israel, we boarded a chartered shuttle bus to Kibbutz Sde Boker. This kibbutz is famous because David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister, retired there, and was eventually buried there.

After an introductory circle where we all got to know one another, we took a short walk to Ben-Gurion’s grave. There, an American olah (immigrant) spoke to us about Ben-Gurion the writer. We learned things such as how Ben-Gurion told his father back in Europe to save the letters he wrote to him, knowing they might one day be important.

For our first activity, we

spread out to do some desert vista writing. As I sat under a tree, ibexes walked past me as frequently as squirrels do in Providence.

We spent most of the afternoon and evening in workshops conducted by fellow participants. During each time slot, we were given the option to attend one of two workshops.

During a playwriting workshop, we each took a scene from a play we’d never read before and wrote our own scene that would take place later in the same play.

In a self-editing workshop, the moderator gave us a random topic to write about. I took the information she shared with us about “desert hedgehogs,” and gave itt my own creative spin by writing about a young boy who mimicked a desert hedgehog’s characteristics.

Next, I attended a performance poetry workshop. The moderator taught us how to read our work out loud in a way that would captivate the audience.

I was on such a high at each of these workshops that I never hesitated to share what I had written or to give my take on a particular topic.

The next day, we hiked into the Negev Desert. We spread out among the rocks, dirt and sand to do our writing. I chose a spot where I couldn’t see any signs of civilization or other people – it was just me and the desert. Those moments freed me of a writer’s block that had prevented me from continuing a particular story, which happened to be set in the desert.

Another great benefit of the retreat was mingling with the talented writers. One is writing a memoir about the unlikely friendship she forged with a Palestinian woman, who lives on the other side of the separation barrier, after they met at a breast-cancer support group in Jerusalem. Another woman and I realized that we’ve been

living just two buildings apart for over six years!

When I came home, my roommates asked me about the retreat. I replied with as much energy and enthusiasm as one might see from someone who just came back from Disneyworld. It was just the breath of fresh (desert) air that my writing needed, and I’m happy to say that my personal community of fellow writers in Israel has now grown even larger.

DANIEL STIEGLITZ (dstieglitz@gmail.com) is a certified Life Coach and freelance writer who lives in Jerusalem. His collection of short stories, “Tavern of the Mind,” was recently published and is available for purchase on Amazon.

We want to hear from you Comments on articles appearing in The Voice can be addressed in a Letter to the Editor of approximately 300 words.

Send electronically to editor@jewishallianceri.org or via mail to 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.

Please include your name, city and state of residence and contact information (which we will not print).

jvhri.org

Ongoing Alliance Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every weekday.

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, 401-421-4111, ext. 107.

West Bay Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every weekday.

Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston.

11:15 a.m. program; noon lunch. $3 lunch donation from individuals 60+ or under 60 with disabilities. Steve, 401743-0009.

Duplicate Bridge. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Mondays noon-2 p.m.: 0-20 masterpoint game.

For less-experienced players. $5 per day. Mondays and Wednesdays noon-3 p.m.: Open stratified game for experienced players at all levels. $7 per day.

Tuesdays and Fridays 11 a.m.-2 p.m: Open stratified game for players at all levels. $7 per day. Thursdays 1:30-3:30 p.m.: Guided play. Beginners and those seeking to hone skills play under the guidance of nationally known instructor Bart Buffington. $6 per day. Information, Bart Buffington at abarton295@ aol.com or 401-390-9244.

Through May 3 Three Creative Approaches. Bunny Fain Gallery at Temple Habonim, 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and by appointment.

Bob Kemp, Abba Cudney and Mural 5778 by the religious school students.

Information, 401-245-6536 or gallery@ templehabonim.org.

Friday | March 16 Shababa Friday/PJ Library Story Time.

10-11 a.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Welcome Shabbat with singing, dancing, jumping and celebrating as a community. Children and their caregivers listen to music, gather for stories, play games, create a craft, eat a snack and make new friends. PJ Library Story Time incorporates more music and movement as Dayna Bailen, Shababa song leader, and Shlomo, the sloth puppet, entertain children ages 5 and under. Guest readers bring PJ Library books, and open art studio time is available. All are welcome. Free.

Information or to RSVP, Dayna Bailen at dbailen@jewishallianceri.org or 401421-4111, ext. 108.

T.G.I.F. Thank G-D It’s Friday. 5:45-7 p.m. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Shabbat songs and story with Rabbi Aaron Philmus followed by a free kid-friendly Shabbat dinner. Donations welcome. Information or to RSVP, Torat Yisrael Office at 401-885-6600.

Joint Reform Shabbat Service. 7:30-9 p.m. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Service includes participation by congregants from Temples Sinai, Beth-El and Habonim as well as music performed by Shireinu. Cantor Ben Steinberg leads the service, which features classical Reform liturgical music he composed. Oneg Shabbat follows the service. Information, Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Kabbalat Shabbat Service. 7:30-9 p.m.

Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Kabbalat Shabbat service followed by an Oneg. Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@

toratyisrael.org or 401-885-6600.

Saturday | March 17 Shabbat School. 9 a.m.-noon. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. 9 a.m.: Torah discussion with 6/7 graders and congregants.

9:45 a.m.: Shabbat service followed by a light Kiddush. Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@toratyisrael.org or 401-885-6600.

Children’s Shabbat Program and Jr. Kiddush Club. 9:30-11:15 a.m. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Weekly program and Jr. Kiddush Club for children. Activities include prayer, parashah, play time and a special Kiddush. Three age groups: Tots, Pre-K thru 1st grade and 2nd grade & up. Located in Kids Room, Social Hall and Chapel on the lower level. Big kids of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join prayer services in the main sanctuary. Information, office@bethsholom-ri.org.

Monday | March 19 Monday Night Meditation. 7:45-8:30 p.m.

Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Meditation instruction for all levels. If you are looking for accessible spiritual practices to help transform your life, consider this class.

This series focuses on little-known classic and modern Jewish meditation techniques. Open to all. Future dates: 3/26, 4/9, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14. Free.

Advance registration required. Information, rabbi@bethsholom-ri.org.

Tuesday | March 20 Passover in the Texts. 10-11:30 a.m.

Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston.

In two sessions, Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser will guide participants in looking more closely at the Haggadah and understanding what the holiday is really about. Future date: 3/27. Information, Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Women’s Community Seder. 6-8 p.m.

Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Catered Kosher-style Passover seder dinner for women of all faiths (and girls 8 years and older).

Cost: $36. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Women of the Wall promoting social and legal rights for women, Day One supporting those affected by sexual abuse and assault, and The Outreach Program food bank project. RSVP by mail or call 401331-6070. Questions, Temple office at 401-331-6070 or email Elaine Sandy at elaineisandy@gmail.com.

Yoga. 6-7 p.m. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Cost: $30 for 3 sessions paid in advance; $12 per session at the door. Open to all. Bring a mat. Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@toratyisrael.org or 401-885-6600.

Tuesday Night Talmud Classes. 7:458:30 p.m. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Join Rabbi Barry Dolinger’s class in the study of the fourth chapter of Berachot: “The Timing of Prayer.” Free. Future dates: 4/3, 4/24; 5/1, 5/8, 5/15. Information, office@bethsholom-ri.org.

Wednesday | March 21 Author Series in Partnership with The Point Street Reading Series Presents James Carroll. 9 a.m. Silverstein Meeting Hall, Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. James Carroll,

National Book Award winner and New York Times bestselling author of “Constantine’s Sword,” will speak about and read from his new book “The Cloister.”

Information or to RSVP, Jenn Thomas at Jthomas@temple-beth-el.org.

13th Annual Cape Verdean-Jewish Passover Seder. 6 p.m. Hibernian Hall (3rd Floor Ballroom), 184 Dudley St., Roxbury, Mass. Celebrate the connections and shared history between the Cape Verdean and Jewish communities.

At this free Seder, share the journeys of both Jews and Cape Verdeans with music and food. Information or to register, visit capeverdeanjewishseder.com.

Film “GI JEWS: Jewish Americans in World War II.” 7-9 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Rhode Island PBS and the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island present a community screening of “GI JEWS: Jewish Americans in World War II” before its national public television premiere in April. This is the first feature-length documentary for national public television to tell the profound and remarkable story of the 550,000 Jewish Americans who served their country in World War II. These brave men and women fought for America and for Jews worldwide.

Like all Americans, they fought against fascism, but they also waged a more personal fight – to save their brethren in Europe. After years of struggle, they emerged transformed, more powerfully American and more deeply Jewish, determined to continue the fight for equality and tolerance at home. Admission is free and open to the public.

RSVP by March 20. A light reception follows the screening. Information or to RSVP, Jon Rubin, WSBE Rhode Island PBS, at 401-222-3636 or education@ ripbs.org.

Table Tennis, Mah Jongg and Canasta.

7-9 p.m. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. All are welcome. Free. Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@toratyisrael.org or 401-885-6600.

“Who is a Jew?” Comes to Africa: A Multimedia Presentation with Professor William Miles. 7:30-9 p.m. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence.

From Nigeria to Madagascar, emerging Jewish communities in Africa are striving to acquire the knowledge and skills of modern Judaism. Professor Miles, a Temple Emanu-El member, shares his pictures and clips from Jewish Africa.

Miles is professor of political science at Northeastern University in Boston and the former Stotsky Professor of Jewish Historical and Cultural Studies there. Two of his books have been National Jewish Book Award finalists: “Zion in the Desert: American Jews in Israel’s Reform Kibbutzim” and “Jews of Nigeria: An Afro-Judaic Odyssey.”

Suggested donation: $5. Information, Rachel Zerin at rzerin@teprov.org or 401-331-1616.

“Bridging the Gap” with Rabbi Raphie.

8-8:45 p.m. Kollel Center for Jewish Studies, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Explore the development and refinement of our personalities through the eyes of the Mussar movement. Text is “Bridging the Gap.” All are welcome for this fundamental and transformative journey. Free. Wednesday evenings thru 1/30/19. Information, Rabbi Raphie Shochet at rabbiraphie@gmail.com or 401-383-2786.

CALENDAR

Thursday | March 22 Lunch and Learn: “See You in Court: Defending Civil Rights in an Uncivil Era.” Noon-1 p.m. Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Presented

by Sharon Abraham Weiss, executive director of The Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI). Bring your own lunch. Coffee and tea will be served.

Live streaming is available. Information or to RSVP, Jenn Thomas at 401-3316070 or jthomas@temple-beth-el.org.

Delve Deeper: A Program of Intensive Jewish Study. 7-9 p.m. Temple Emanu-El, Bohnen Vestry, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Thursdays thru 5/10.

New adult education initiative brings dynamic teachers who are experts in their fields to teach in-depth, universitylevel courses to a diverse group of adult learners. The third semester: “The Rabbis and Their Legacy: An Introduction to Rabbinic Judaism” with Professor Michael Satlow. Registration is required, and space is limited. $200 for the semester. Information, including a link to register, can be found at teprov. org/institute/delvedeeper.

Friday | March 23 People of the Image: Art, Meaning, and History in the Passover Haggadah Scholar-in-Residence Weekend with Professor Marc Michael Epstein.

Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Through Sunday, 3/25.

Temple Emanu-El welcomes Professor Marc Michael Epstein, a leading scholar on Medieval haggadah art. See story on page 3 for more information.

Lectures are free. Friday night dinner is $18/adult and $10/child. Information, teprov.org/edweekend18 or call Temple Emanu-El at 401-331-1616.

Kosher Senior Café Model Community Passover Seder. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. For Providence and Pawtucket guests, a bus will leave the Dwares JCC at 401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence at 10:15 a.m. and will return at 1:30 p.m. Reservations required by 3/19. Information or to RSVP, Elaine or Neal at 401-421-4111, ext. 107.

Shabbat Hallelu. 6:30 p.m. Temple BethEl, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Light refreshments and sangria served at 6:30 p.m., and services start at 7 p.m.

Information, Temple Beth-El office at 401-331-6070.

Kabbalat Shabbat Service. 7:30-9 p.m.

Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Kabbalat Shabbat service followed by an Oneg. Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@ toratyisrael.org or 401-885-6600.

“Praiseworthy and Beyond: The Art of Passover” lecture by Professor Marc Michael Epstein. 8:15-9:30 p.m. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence.

Join Professor Marc Michael Epstein, one of the world’s leading experts on Medieval haggadah art, to discover how the illustrations of the Passover haggadah help us to fulfill both the letter and spirit of the Passover Eve. See story on page 3 for more information. All are welcome to attend a dessert reception following the lecture. Lecture and dessert reception are free thanks to the Edwin S. Soforenko Foundation. Prior to the lecture, there will be a Germanthemed Shabbat dinner, including potato dumplings, sweet and sour cabbage with apples, and meat and vegetarian entrees. RSVP for dinner, which begins

March 16, 2018 |

11

at 7 p.m. Cost is $18/adult and $10/child.

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

Saturday | March 24 Taste of Shabbat. 9-11 a.m. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. 9 a.m. Torah discussion and 9:45 a.m. Shabbat service followed by a light Kiddush. Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@toratyisrael.org or 401-885-6600.

Children’s Shabbat Program and Jr. Kiddush Club. 9:30-11:15 a.m. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Weekly program and Jr. Kiddush Club for children. Activities include prayer, parashah, play time and a special Kiddush. Three age groups: Tots, Pre-K thru 1st grade and 2nd grade and up. Located in Kids Room, Social Hall and Chapel on the lower level. Big kids of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join prayer services in the main sanctuary. Information, office@bethsholom-ri.org.

“Hasidic Insights on the Haggadah” Lecture by Professor Marc Michael Epstein. 1-2 p.m. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. The Passover haggadah is a particularly rich source of Hasidic insights and perspectives. See story on page 3 for more information. Prior to the lecture, all are welcome to attend a buffet kiddush luncheon that will transport us to the Hasidic communities of Slonim and Izhbitz-Radzin, featuring cholent and other traditional Ashkenazic fare. Both the lecture and buffet lunch are free, with thanks to the Rabbi Morris G. and Rebbitzen Diana Silk Memorial Fund.

Lunch will begin at approximately 12:15 p.m. Information or to RSVP (to ensure enough food and seats for all), 401-3311616 or Rabbi Rachel Zerin at rzerin@ teprov.org.

Third Annual Shabbatini. 6-7:30 p.m.

Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Martinis, sangria, music, snacks and schmoozing. Spirited Havdalah service. Sponsored by TBE Membership Committee. $10 per person. Information, Temple Beth-El office at 401-331-6070 Teen & Tween Cupcake Wars. 7-9 p.m.

Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Jewish teens in 6th-12th grade: Roll up your sleeves and get ready for this fun and competitive cake decorating event. Work in teams to create the best cake design which is scored by a panel of guest judges. Prizes awarded to the winning group. Cost: $5 per teen with two non-perishable Kosher food items (to be donated to The Louis & Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry) or $8 per teen. Participants may register as individuals or as a team of up to four. Information or to RSVP, Seth Finkle at 401-421-4111, ext. 146 or sfinkle@ jewishallianceri.org or Samantha Walsh 401-490-1030 or swalsh@bbyo.org Comedy Singer Joey Vincent. 8 p.m.

Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. The Joey Vincent Show has something for everyone.

Fast-paced humor, rapid-fire costume change impressions and a musical tribute to the trumpet greats are just part of the fun. Joey Vincent takes you on a musical journey from the 30s to today.

Tickets: $25 | $35 includes 2 drinks | $100 sponsorship also available. Doors CALENDAR | 12

12 | March 16, 2018 FROM PAGE 11

CALENDAR

| CALENDAR

open at 7:30 p.m. Information or reservations, Torat Yisrael office at 401-885-6600.

Sunday | March 25 Art Detectives: The Mystery of the Golden Haggadah – a Family-Friendly Interactive Lecture by Professor Marc Michael Epstein. 9-11 a.m. Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence.

One of the most beautiful books ever created for a Jewish audience was the splendid Golden Haggadah, written and painted by hand in Barcelona, Spain, around 1320. This program is suitable for adults and children age 9 and up. Continental breakfast served. Breakfast and the lecture are free, with thanks to the Peter J. and Anna C. Woolf Education Fund. Information or to RSVP (to ensure enough food and seats for all), 401-331-1616 or Rabbi Rachel Zerin at rzerin@teprov.org.

Adult Education: Israeli Life. 9:1510:30 a.m. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich.

March topic: “Is the Knesset Like Congress?” Israel’s unique parliamentary system, separation of church and state. Information or to register, Torat Yisrael office at 401885-6600.

Day-at-the-J! Abracadabra! March Magic. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence.

9:30-10:30 a.m. Fitness Workshop: Getting in shape is not magic; come learn some keys to enhance your routine. Babysitting available for children ages 6 months to 6 years, from 8:30 a.m. to noon for up to two hours on a first-come, first-served basis. A 24-hour advance reservation is required. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

PJ Library Story Time: Hear the adventures of “The Mitzvah Magician” by Linda Elovitz Marshall, and learn what it is like to be a mitzvah magician. For children under age 5. 1-3 p.m. Family Magic Event:

45-minute magic show featuring Lon Cerel, followed by magic-themed craft stations to create a variety of enchanted things. All ages welcome.

Price: $5 per person | Members: $3 per person | Family Max: $15 | Member Family Max: $10. 3 p.m.

Film “In Search of Israeli Cuisine.”

See story on page 1. Information or to sign up, Michelle Cicchitelli at mcicchitelli@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 178.

Film “Turkish Passport.” 2-4:30 p.m.

Dialogue Foundation, 145 Wayland Ave., #2F, Providence. Sponsored

by Temple Sinai and the Dialogue Foundation. This documentary tells the story of Turkish diplomats who saved Jews during the Holocaust.

The screening will be followed by a discussion and Turkish appetizers.

Information, Dottie, Temple Sinai Office, at 401-942-8350.

Israel at 70: “In Search of Israeli Cuisine.” 3 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. This documentary chronicles the 70+ cultures that make up the Israeli people, each with wonderful and unique food traditions. Follow Michael Solomonov as he visits vibrant eateries, fine restaurants, home kitchens, wineries, cheese makers, organic kitchens off the beaten track and much more.

Additional local screenings around the state will be held in the spring, and Michael Solomonov will appear in person at the Dwares JCC on Wednesday, May 2. This free event is sponsored by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and is generously funded by the Dr. James Yashar & Judge Marjorie Yashar Fund at the Jewish Federation Foundation. Information, Jana Brenman at jbrenman@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 181.

Monday | March 26 Monday Night Meditation. 7:45-8:30 p.m. Congregation Beth! Sholom,

The Jewish Voice to a diverse group of adult learners.

The third semester: “The Rabbis and Their Legacy: An Introduction to Rabbinic Judaism” with Professor Michael Satlow. Registration is required, and space is limited. $200 for the semester. Information, including a link to register, can be found at teprov.org/institute/delvedeeper.

275 Camp St., Providence. Meditation instruction for all levels. If you are looking for accessible spiritual practices to help transform your life, consider this class. This series focuses on little-known classic and modern Jewish meditation techniques. Open to all. Future dates: 4/9, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14. Free.

Advance registration required. Information, rabbi@bethsholom-ri.org.

Saturday | March 31 Taste of Shabbat. 9-11 a.m. Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. 9 a.m. Torah discussion and 9:45 a.m. Shabbat service followed by a light Kiddush.

Information, Stephanie Reinsant at stephanie@toratyisrael.org or 401885-6600.

Tuesday | March 27 Passover in the Texts. 10-11:30 a.m.

Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Second of two sessions with Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser guiding participants in a closer look at the Haggadah and a deeper understanding of Passover. Information, Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Children’s Shabbat Program and Jr. Kiddush Club. 9:30-11:15 a.m. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Weekly program and Jr. Kiddush Club for children. Activities include prayer, parashah, play time and a special Kiddush. Three age groups: Tots, Pre-K thru 1st grade and 2nd grade and up. Located in Kids Room, Social Hall and Chapel on the lower level. Big kids of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join prayer services in the main sanctuary. Information, office@ bethsholom-ri.org.

Wednesday | March 28 Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman. Noon-1 p.m. Silverstein Meeting Hall, Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Featuring Tslil Reichman, Israeli shlicha (emissary) for the Greater RI area, who will discuss the history of Israel through food. Bring your own lunch.

Coffee and tea will be served. Live streaming available. Information or to RSVP, Jenn Thomas at 401-3316070 or jthomas@temple-beth-el. org.

Second Night Passover Seder. 5:308:30 p.m. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Dinner in the social hall, catered by Cozy Caterers.

Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser will lead the Seder. Reservations and checks must be received by 3/21. Cost: $30 for adults | $15 for children ages 6-12 | $5 for children under age 5.

Information, Dottie, Temple Office, at 401-942-8350.

“Bridging the Gap” with Rabbi Raphie.

8-8:45 p.m. Kollel Center for Jewish Studies, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Explore the development and refinement of our personalities through the eyes of the Mussar movement. Text is “Bridging the Gap.” All are welcome for this fundamental and transformative journey.

Free. Wednesday evenings thru 1/30/19. Information, Rabbi Raphie Shochet at rabbiraphie@gmail.com or 401-383-2786.

Community Seder. 6 p.m. Silverstein Meeting Hall, Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Conducted by Rabbi Howard VossAltman and Cantor Judith Seplowin.

Seder plate, dinner and community provided. You provide your favorite dessert in small portions on a disposable plate, friends, family and neighbors. Food is Kosher style.

Adults $36 | Children 10 or under $18. RSVP with payment by 3/20.

Information, Temple Beth-El office at 401-331-6070.

Thursday | March 29 Delve Deeper: A Program of Intensive Jewish Study. 7-9 p.m. Temple Emanu-El, Bohnen Vestry, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Thursdays thru 5/10. New adult education initiative brings dynamic teachers who are experts in their fields to teach in-depth, university-level courses

! !

Tuesday | April 3 Tuesday Night Talmud Classes. 7:458:30 p.m. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Join Rabbi Barry Dolinger’s class in the study of the fourth chapter of Berachot: “The Timing of Prayer.”

Free. Future dates: 4/24; 5/1, 5/8, 5/15. Information, office@bethsholom-ri.org.

Wednesday | April 4 “Bridging the Gap” with Rabbi Raphie.

8-8:45 p.m. Kollel Center for Jewish Studies, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Explore the development and refinement of our personalities through the eyes of the Mussar movement. Text is “Bridging the Gap.” All are welcome for this fundamental and transformative journey.

Free. Wednesday evenings thru 1/30/19. Information, Rabbi Raphie Shochet at rabbiraphie@gmail.com or 401-383-2786.

Thursday | April 5 Delve Deeper: A Program of Intensive Jewish Study. 7-9 p.m. Temple Emanu-El, Bohnen Vestry, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Thursdays thru 5/10. New adult education initiative brings dynamic teachers who are experts in their fields to teach in-depth, university-level courses to a diverse group of adult learners.

The third semester: “The Rabbis and Their Legacy: An Introduction to Rabbinic Judaism” with Professor Michael Satlow. Registration is required, and space is limited. $200 for the semester. Information, including a link to register, can be found at teprov.org/institute/delvedeeper.

Friday | April 6 Family Shabbat Dinner. 6 p.m. Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Pasta, turkey meatballs and salad dinner at 6 p.m. Led by thirdgrade students. Information, Temple Beth-El office at 401-331-6070.

Saturday | April 7 Children’s Shabbat Program and Jr. Kiddush Club. 9:30-11:15 a.m. Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp St., Providence. Weekly program and Jr. Kiddush Club for children. Activities include prayer, parashah, play time and a special Kiddush. Three age groups: Tots, Pre-K thru 1st grade and 2nd grade and up. Located in Kids Room, Social Hall and Chapel on the lower level. Big kids of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join prayer services in the main sanctuary. Information, office@ bethsholom-ri.org.

Best!Wishes!for!a!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy!Passover!!!! !

The!Executive!Committee,!!!!!!!!!!!

Staff,!and!Parents!of!the!!!

Providence!Hebrew!Day!School! !

Rabbi!Peretz!Scheinerman!!

Dean!

450!Elmgrove!Avenue,!Providence,!Rhode!Island!02906!

(401)!331P5327!!Ext.!21!

Trivia Night. 6:30 p.m. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. A light dinner, including a variety of veggie pizzas, calzones and salad, will be available throughout the evening.

The event is BYOB. Tickets are $15 in advance (advance price deadline is 4/3) and $20 at the door. Teams of eight paying in advance can reserve tables. Dessert and coffee will be served at around 9 p.m. Babysitting provided for the total evening for a fee of $15 per child or $20 for 2 or more children. Information, Dottie at 401-942-8350.

AND PJALLIANCE LIBRARY present RHODE ISLAND JEWISH OF GREATER

Rick Recht Rick Recht AND PJ LIBRARY present

COMMUNITY

jvhri.org

FROM PAGE 9

| NEVER AGAIN

tism – around the globe.”

That’s similar to how the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum uses the phrase. In choosing the name Never Again as the theme of its 2013 Days of Remembrance, its used the term as a call to study the genocide of the Jews in order to respond to the “warning signs” of genocides happening anywhere.

And Elie Wiesel, the late Holocaust survivor and author who came to be associated with the phrase, also used it in the universal sense. “‘Never again’ becomes more than a slogan: It’s a prayer, a promise, a vow… never again the glorification of base, ugly, dark violence,” the Nobel laureate wrote in 2012.

Never Again is a phrase that keeps on evolving. It was used in protests against the Muslim ban and in support of refugees,

in remembrance of Japanese internment during World War II and recalling the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. And now the phrase is taking on yet another life: in the fight for gun control in America.

Shaul Magid, a professor of Jewish studies at Indiana University who is presently a visiting scholar at the Center for Jewish History in New York, told JTA, “For [Kahane], Never Again was not ‘this will not happen again because we will have a country’ but ‘we Jews will never be complacent like we were during the war.’ That is, for Kahane, Never Again was a call to militancy as the only act of prevention. In Parkland it is a call for gun control. In a way, a call for anti-militancy.”

Tickets are $15 prior to April 3 and $20 after that date or at the door.

If you have a team of eight and provide advance payment for each team member, you can reserve a table. If you do not have a team of eight, you will be seated wherever you choose and your tablemates become your team.

Dessert and coffee will be served at approximately 9 p.m. after the trivia game is over.

The event is BYOB. Babysitting for the evening is available for $10 per child, $15 for two or more children.

Call Dottie in the Temple Sinai Office at 401-942-8350 to sign up or to receive a flyer with further details.

Submitted by Temple Sinai

Serving New England Businesses for Over 50 Years Appellate

Government Contracts

Bankruptcy, Receivership & Creditors’ Rights

Government Relations

Business & Corporate Complex & Business Litigation Construction Commercial Finance Energy & Telecommunications Environmental Gaming

Providence Boston

Health Care

Save the Date!

Yom

THURSDAY

THURSDAY

April 19, A PJ Library Musical 2018 April 19,featuring Celebration 6:00 PM Rick Recht 2018

Thursday, April 19 | 6:00pm SCAN THIS Join us for music, food, 6:00JCC PM| 401 Dwares Elmgrove Avenue, Providence QR CODE WITH YOUR PHONE for news, events, free music, fun activities, and more!

stories, and family activities

For more information Join us for a fun, interactive concert featuring Rick Recht, one call ofMichelle the Cicchitelli mostat 401-421-4111, ext 178 renowned Jewish artists of our time and PJ Library National Celebrity SCAN THIS Join us for music, food, QR CODE WITH Spokesperson.

He will help us commemorate Israeli stories,Yom andHa’Atzmaut, family activities YOUR PHONE Independence Day, and there will be on-stage participation from local children. for news, events, free music, No fun cost to attend | Food available for Forpurchase more informationat call5:00pm Michelle Cicchitelli at

401-421-4111, ext 178 Register today at jewishallianceri.org/rick-recht

activities, and more!

401 Elmgrove Avenue • Providence, RI 02906

This program is sponsored by: Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island, Congregation Beth David, Congregation Beth Sholom, PJ Library, Temple Beth-El, Temple Emanu-El, Temple Habonim, Temple Sinai, and Temple Torat Yisrael.

RSVP by April 10 for a chance to be entered into a raffle for $50 off PJ Library is a program of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island in partnership with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation a birthday party or week of Summer J-Camp. Must be present to win. www.PJLIBRARY.org • rickrecht.com/pjlibrary • facebook.com/rickrechtworld

This program is sponsored by: Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Jewish Community Day

This program is sponsored by: Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Community Day School of Rhode School of Rhode Island, Congregation Beth David,Jewish Congregation Beth Sholom, PJ Library, Temple Island, Congregation Beth David, Congregation Beth Sholom, PJ Temple Library,Habonim, Temple Temple Beth-El,Sinai, Temple Emanu-El, Beth-El, Temple Emanu-El, and Temple ToratTemple Yisrael.

Habonim,Temple Sinai, and Temple Torat Yisrael.

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

www.PJLIBRARY.org • rickrecht.com/pjlibrary • facebook.com/rickrechtworld

401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | 401.421.4111 | jewishallianceri.org

The Rabbi Alvan and Giveret Marcia Kaunfer Day School Educator Award of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island

DO YOU KNOW AN OUTSTANDING JEWISH DAY SCHOOL EDUCATOR? The Jewish Alliance, through the generosity of Dianne and Martin Newman, is offering up to $3,000 for a professional development program in Israel for an outstanding Jewish day school educator.

The educator must: • Teach in a Rhode Island Jewish day school • Have at least three years of experience teaching (not necessarily in a Jewish day school) • Teach at least half-time • Teach any grade level or subject

Products Liability / Toxic Tort / Mass Torts Public Finance Real Estate

Hospitality

We are now accepting nominations for the inaugural award season.

Securities

Insurance Defense & Coverage

Sports

Intellectual Property

Tax

Labor & Employment

Trusts & Estates

Land Use

White Collar Criminal Defense

Mergers & Acquisitions Patents, Trademark & Copyright Services

One Citizens Plaza, 8th Fl Providence 175 Federal St, 10th Fl Boston

A PJ LibraryA PJ Family LibraryEvent: Family Event: Yom Ha’Atzmaut Musical Celebration Ha’Atzmaut Musical Celebration

For more information, contact Michelle Cicchitelli at 401.421.4111 ext. 178 or mcicchitelli@jewishallianceri.org.

401 Elmgrove Avenue • Providence, RI 02906

Temple Sinai plans trivia night Anticipation is building for Temple Sinai’s first-ever trivia night, set for Saturday, April 7.

A light supper will be available at 6:30 p.m. and throughout the evening, with a variety of veggie pizzas, calzones and salad.

The professional trivia master will begin the game at 7 p.m. Questions, which will focus on general knowledge category, will be displayed on a big screen.

Friendly competition is one element of the game. You get points for correct answers, and you have points deducted for incorrect answers. You might be in first place one minute, and just a few minutes later, get the next question wrong and you will be in last place.

March 16, 2018 |

Newport New Hampshire

www.apslaw.com

Please contact Lawrence Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org or 401.421.4111 ext. 179 for a nomination form or for more information.

Nominations due by March 27, 2018

Venture Capital

49 Bellevue Ave Newport 149 Hanover St, Ste 300 Manchester

visit us at www.JVHRI.ORG

to stay current with local Jewish news

13

14 | March 16, 2018

FOOD

The Jewish Voice

PHOTO | JTA, FADEL SENNA/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

Moroccan Jews in synagogue in Marrakesh last year.

Moroccan Passover traditions

BY NATASHA COOPERBENISTY

DAYENU NEVER SOUNDED BETTER

RHODE ISLAND’S BEST SELECTION OF DELIGHTFUL

KOSHER WINES

141 PITMAN ST. PROVIDENCE, RI 02906 | 401.372.2030 BOTTLESFINEWINE.COM BOTTLES PROVIDENCE

@BOTTLESFINEWINE

@BOTTLES_PVD

(My Jewish Learning via JTA) – The seders of my adult life are quite different from those I experienced in my youth. The main reason for this is that I am married to a Moroccan Israeli who has his own rich traditions from which to draw.

Early in our marriage, my husband experienced his first Ashkenazic seders at my parents’ home. However, once we decided that we were ready to host our own seders, we happily merged customs from both of our backgrounds to create our special family experience.

Perhaps the most unusual Moroccan custom of our seder occurs early on when the head of the household – in my husband’s family, his mother would do this – holds the seder plate over the head of each guest separately and chants the following: “Bibhilu yat’anu mi’mi’rayim, halac’ma ‘anya bené ‘orin.” This roughly translates to the following: “In haste, we went out of Egypt with our bread of affliction and now we are free.”

I have taken on this unusual ritual, which has become one of the highlights of our seder.

Our Ashkenazic friends love this tradition, and with a glass seder plate it is even more entertaining!

One interesting take on the ritual is that is it connected to Kabbalah. It is believed that Rabbi Isaac Luria, who is known for revolutionizing the study of Jewish mysticism through Kabbalah, connected the various items of the seder to the 10 kabbalistic sefirot, the mystical dimensions that described the divine attributes of God, and so the seder plate became a sacred symbol of God. In this sense, when raising the seder plate, one is being blessed by the Shechina (the Talmud defines the Shechina as the divine that lives within the world, on earth with the Jewish people, and accompanies them when they are exiled), in addition to enjoying the Shechina’s

presence at your seder table.)

Another interesting difference is the ritual accompanying the recitation of the Ten Plagues. Instead of the Ashkenazic finger or a knife dipping, Moroccans fill a large bowl with water and wine (two different glasses pour the liquids into the bowl as each plague is recited). The idea here is that one can see the effect of the first plague as the Egyptians witnessed their precious Nile River become contaminated with blood.

Perhaps the biggest misconception when it comes to Sephardic Jews is that they all eat rice on Passover. Like anything else in Judaism, there are myriad customs and traditions depending on where your family lived in the old country or even where they originated generations before they ended up in that particular city.

Moroccan Jews, for example, are a diverse group with different customs depending on their ancestry. There are those who came after the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem and settled among the Berbers.

Others came in 1492 from Spain and Portugal as did my husband’s family. Most Moroccan Jews do not eat rice on Passover, but they do eat other kitniyot including legumes, fresh beans and fresh peas.

In researching this piece, I came across a quote by a man who said that his father had told him that the reason that the Spanish Moroccan Jews ate this way was because Spain was close to Ashkenaz (the area along the Rhine River in northern France and western Germany) and the gzeira (edict per Jewish law) regarding kitniyot crossed the border and both Sephardic Jews and Jews of Spanish origin accepted the decree.

In general, Moroccans eat differently on Passover from Ashkenazim. Their reliance year-round on a variety of salad dishes translates well for PassMOROCCAN | 16

FOOD

jvhri.org

March 16, 2018 |

15

Your favorite Jewish foods, updated for Passover

BY SHANNON SARNA JTA – Two of my family’s favorite dishes are schnitzel and rainbow cookies, and I have a feeling your family may feel the same. Here’s some great news about both: they very easily translate into Passover-friendly versions with minor adjustments.

While you could serve them for your seder meals, both are great to enjoy during chol hamoed, the intermediate days of the holiday, when you’re sick of eating leftover brisket and coconut macaroons.

Passover-Friendly Chicken Schnitzel

Schnitzel is satisfying and easy to make, and will be the perfect dinner served with some roasted potatoes and a simple green salad.

Ingredients

Directions

Combine eggs, mustard or hot sauce and water in a large bowl.

Combine matzah meal, almond meal, sesame seeds (if using), parsley, paprika, salt and pepper in another large bowl.

Dredge each chicken cutlet in egg mixture, then in matzah meal mixture, pressing down to ensure the entire piece is covered. Lay flat on a plate or baking sheet.

Pour oil into large sauté pan to about 1 1/2 inches deep over medium-high heat.

Fry chicken cutlets in batches, 2-3 at a time, until golden on each side – depending on thickness of chicken, around 3 minutes each side. Take care not to overcrowd the pan or chicken will not cook properly.

Remove from pan and allow to cool on a wire rack.

While chicken is still hot from pan, sprinkle each cutlet with additional pinch of salt.

into little pieces or processed in food processor for 30 seconds 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter or margarine 1/2 cup matzah cake meal 1/2 cup blanched almond flour (not almond meal) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon kosher-for-Passover vanilla extract Red and green food coloring (about 8 drops each)

2 pounds chicken cutlets Salt and pepper 2 eggs, beaten Passover-Friendly 2 teaspoons kosher-for-PassRainbow Cookies over mustard or hot sauce Rainbow cookies are such a 1 teaspoon water beloved American staple. The 1 1/2 cups matzah meal task may seem intimating, but 1/2 cup almond meal once you make your own – esFor the chocolate glaze: 2 tablespoons sesame seeds pecially this Passover-friendly 1 cup dark or semisweet choc(optional) version – you will never go back olate chips 2 tablespoons dried parsley to the store-bought version.

1 tablespoon vegetable short1/2 tablespoon smoked Ingredients ening or vegetable oil paprika For the cake: Pinch salt 1 teaspoon sea salt 4 eggs Raspberry jam 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup white sugar Equipment: 3 square baking Vegetable or canola oil for 4 ounces almond paste, broken 18_NE_RhodeIsland_JVH 02/27/18 4:47:22 pans,PM offset spatula, scale. frying

Using a hand mixer (or whisk attachment to stand mixer), mix eggs and sugar until thick and yellow. Add crumbled almond paste and combine.

Add melted butter (or margarine), matzah cake meal, almond flour, salt and vanilla.

Divide batter into 3 even amounts. (Try using a food scale if eyeballing is too difficult). Leave one plain. Add green food coloring to one batch of batter. Add red food coloring to the other batch of batter.

Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake for 8-9 minutes, or until just set and no longer wet in the middle.

Allow to cool completely.

Place chocolate, shortening and pinch of salt in a glass bowl.

Microwave for 30-second intervals until melted. Stir vigorously to ensure there are no clumps.

Place a piece of parchment paper on top of a platter or baking sheet. Add red cake layer to parchment paper. Spread thin layer of raspberry jam. Top with white layer. Add another thin layer of raspberry jam. Top with green cake.

Carefully spread half the melted chocolate on top. Place in refrigerator for 15-20 minutes or until completely hard.

Turn over and spread remaining chocolate on other side.

Place back in refrigerator for 30 minutes or overnight.

Trim edges and slice into cookies.

Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease your pans. Add parchment paper to bottom of each pan. Grease again and add light dusting of matzah cake meal. Tap pan to remove any excess.

Wishing you and your family a

HAPPY PASSOVER

5

$ 9/lb9.

99

Sweet Potatoes US #1 2979565

2/$6

2/$4

Kedem Grape Juice

Lilly’s Assorted Cookies

Acme Smoked Nova Salmon

12 oz. pkg. 2978262

4 oz. pkg. 2979621

2/$6

Kedem Apple Juice

Selected Varieties, 64 fl. oz. btl. 2949606

7

$ 9/ea9.

/lb.

2979609

$ 9/ea9.

6

¢

Empire Fresh Kosher Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast

Mrs. Adler’s Gefilte Fish

64 fl. oz. btl. 2933695

Selected Varieties, 24 oz. jar 2846009

4 59¢

4

Aviv $ 99 Yehuda, or Osem Matzos

$ 99 Manischewitz Matzos

5 lb. pkg. 2949744

5/$5

Streit’s Matzo Ball and Soup Mix Selected Varieties, 4.5 oz. pkg. 2855485

Heaven & Earth Vegetable or Beet Chips 5 oz. pkg. 2855740

2/ 6 $

5/$5

Streit’s Potato Pancake Mix

Selected Varieties, 6 oz. pkg.

2855009

Tabatchnick Chicken Broth

32 fl. oz. cont. 2854390

2/ 4 $

2/$4

Lieber’s Macaroons Selected Varieties, 10 oz. cont. 2949929

Manischewitz Egg Matzos

12 oz. pkg. 2854691

2/ 5 $

2/$5

Stop & Shop Seltzer 1 Liter

Manischewitz Tam Tams Crackers

33.8 fl. oz. btl., Plus Deposit Where Applicable 2953616

Manischewitz Matzo Meal or Cake Meal

16 oz. cont. 2855502

Selected Varieties, 8 oz. pkg. 2843869

2/ 5 $

Facebook “f ” Logo

Use your Stop & Shop card and save on items on this page. We sell kosher and non-kosher foods. Not all products kosher for Passover.

Not all items available in all stores. While supplies last. Prices effective 3/2/18–3/30/18

5 lb. pkg. 2949744

Gunter’s Pure Clover Honey Bear

12 oz. btl. 2891386 CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

2/$6

CMYK / .eps

stopandshop.com

16 | March 16, 2018

FOOD

The Jewish Voice

FROM PAGE 14

Temple Beth-El Community Seder Saturday, March 31, 2018 6:00 PM Conducted by Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman & Cantor Judith Seplowin

We Provide: Seder Plate, Dinner, and Community

You Provide: Your favorite Dessert in small portions on a disposable plate, friends, family, and neighbors.

Food is Kosher Style. Please label any dessert containing nuts!

RSVP with payment by Monday, March 20 adults $36 children 10 or under attending $18 To RSVP online: https://tinyurl.com/TBE2ndSeder 70 Orchard Avenue, Providence, RI 02906 * 401.331.6070 * www.temple-beth-el.org

MOROCCAN

over, and I often feel as if my diet during the holiday is not so different from our normal fare – with the exception of matzah, of course.

However, during the seder itself there are some differences, no doubt due to the availability of vegetables in Morocco. For example, romaine lettuce and not horseradish is used for maror and parsley, not potatoes, for karpas. The haroset is also noteworthy due to the absence of apples. I have included a traditional recipe below for Moroccan haroset adapted from Claudia Roden. I have also made haroset without any spices, using only dates, walnuts, wine and raisins. For those who are nut-free, the haroset can also be made without the walnuts.

This haroset, especially when using raisins, is quite thick and thus can last throughout the entire holiday and can be enjoyed as a snack with matzah.

Betai’avon (Bon appetite)!

Moroccan Haroset Ingredients

1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 grind freshly ground nutmeg

1 pound dates, pitted and chopped 1 1/2 cups grape juice

Directions

Put the dates into a pan with the wine, cinnamon and cloves, then simmer, stirring occasionally, until you have a soft paste.

Put through the food processor if you want a smoother texture.

Let it cool and stir in the walnuts.

NATASHA COOPERBENISTY has been a Jewish educator in both day school and religious school for the past 10 years. She enjoys educating her students about Moroccan Jewish culture and creating Moroccan feasts for her Ashkenazic friends. This piece appeared originally on Jewish&, the blog of Be’chol Lashon. http:// bechollashon.org/

Ten healthy eating tips Healthful eating is important at every stage of life. Here are 10 tips for better eating for those age 60 and up from the National

Institute on Aging.

1: Drink plenty of liquids.

2: Make eating a social event.

3: Plan healthy meals.

4: Know how much to eat.

5: Vary your vegetables.

6: Eat for your teeth and gums.

7: Use herbs and spices.

8: Keep food safe.

9: Read nutrition labels.

10: Consult with your doctor about vitamins and supplements.

There is plenty of reliable information online on all these topics at nia.nih.gov. and at your local public library.

from your friends at

Iz Schwartz Appliance is a family-owned appliance store based in Somerset, MA, since 1979. Our knowledge on the appliances and products we sell sets us high above the competition. We are known for our great prices, honest advice, and no pressure sales staff.

So please come visit us, we are less than 20 minutes from Providence.

WE ARE AN AUTHORIZED DEALER OF SUCH BRANDS AS: Subzero | Wolf | Thermador | Viking | Capital | Bosch | Whirlpool Maytag | GE | Frigidaire | Electrolux | KitchenAid and more!

110 Slades Ferry Avenue Somerset, MA 02726

508-674-3511

www.izschwartzappliance.com | STORE HOURS: Mon - Wed 9AM - 5PM, Thurs & Fri 9AM - 8PM, Sat 9AM - 5PM

“Like” us at www.facebook.com/izschwartzappliance for special promotions and discounts!

FOOD

jvhri.org

March 16, 2018 |

17

This Passover menu is low on calories and carbs

BY MEGAN WOLF JTA – I’m a big fan of healthy whole grains, but they can easily become heavy – even the healthy ones. Instead of packing my Passover meals with heavy dishes, I’m offering a lighter, lower calorie and lower carbohydrate option this year.

If you have seen my recipes before, you may know that I love cauliflower as a stand-in for potatoes and rice. There is truly no better substitute! Not only is it delicious, it’s now incredibly easy to find already riced.

and punchy salmon.

Simple Lemon Salmon Ingredients

4 6-ounce salmon portions Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 lemons, juiced 1 lemon, sliced

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F., place sheet pan in the oven to heat.

Whisk olive oil and lemon.

Season salmon with salt and pepper. Brush salmon with half of the lemon mixture.

Place salmon skin side down on the hot sheet pan, roast until cooked to your liking, or about 8-10 minutes.

Serve salmon by topping the fish with the remaining oil mixture and sliced lemon.

Seared Mushroom Cauliflower Risotto Ingredients

And w h o c a n ’ t use a time saver in the kitchen?

I prefer frozen riced cauliflower to fresh.

T h e more I make these dishes, the more I realize this is by far the best method of purchase. I think it works so well in part because there is already some water in the cauliflower, and it helps the vegetable to cook more evenly.

These recipes are delicious and well-suited for any time of year, but they are especially welcome at Passover, when we’re all looking to lighten our load a bit.

I also love how these dishes come together in color, taste and texture. The sweet and crunchy aspects of the broccoli play off the creamy cauliflower

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, diced 10 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped 4 cups frozen riced cauliflower 1/2 cup dry white wine 2 cups water or more 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1 lemon, juiced 1 pint cremini mushrooms, quartered 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt to taste

and resembles risotto, add Parmesan cheese and stir to combine.

Serve risotto with mushrooms atop or stirred into cauliflower, topped with lemon juice.

Burnt Broccoli Ingredients:

2 heads broccoli, cut into florets 2 tablespoons olive oil plus more for drizzling 1 tablespoon honey Salt to taste

Directions

Steam broccoli until just tender and bright green, about 2 minutes.

Toss broccoli with 2 tablespoons olive oil and place on a large baking sheet, roast at 400 degrees F. until crispy and starting to char, about 15-20 minutes.

Microwave honey until it’s liquid then immediately pour evenly over broccoli and drizzle with olive oil, season with salt.

Directions

Sauté onions and garlic over low heat until cooked through and translucent.

Add frozen cauliflower and mix to combine. Add white wine and continue stirring.

Add water 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently and adding more water as each batch is absorbed.

While the cauliflower is cooking, sauté mushrooms in olive oil in a separate pan, set aside.

Once the cauliflower is soft

Seared mushroom cauliflower risotto

Our Family wishes your family a

Sweet and Happy Passover

Roslyn & Phyllis Dickens

Belwing Turkey Farm

773 Taunton Avenue Route 44 Seekonk, MA (508) 336-9142

Thank You To Our Advertisers!

Please tell them you saw their ad in The Jewish Voice.

18 | March 16, 2018

PASSOVER

The Jewish Voice

9 things you didn’t know about Passover

BY MJL STAFF (My Jewish Learning via JTA) – Here are nine things that many likely wouldn’t know about the Festival of Freedom:

1. In Gibraltar, there’s dust in the haroset.

The traditional haroset is a sweet Passover paste whose texture is meant as a reminder of the mortar the enslaved Jews used to build in ancient Egypt.

The name itself is related to the Hebrew word for clay. In Ashkenazic tradition, it is traditionally made from crushed nuts, apples and sweet red wine, while Sephardic Jews use figs or dates. But the tiny Jewish community of this small British territory at the tip of the Iberian Peninsula takes the brick symbolism to another level, using the dust of actual bricks in their recipe.

2. Abraham Lincoln died during Passover.

The 16th American president was shot at Ford’s Theatre on a Friday, April 14, 1865, which coincided with the fourth night of Passover. The next morning, Jews who wouldn’t normally have attended services on the holiday were so moved by Lincoln’s passing they made their way to synagogues, where the normally celebratory Passover services were instead marked by acts of mourning and the singing of Yom Kippur hymns.

American Jews were so affected by the president’s death that Congregation Shearith Israel in New York recited the prayer for the dead – usually said only for Jews – on Lincoln’s behalf.

3. Arizona is a hub for matzah wheat.

Hasidic Jews from Brooklyn

have been increasingly sourcing wheat for their Passover matzah from farmers in Arizona. Excessive moisture in wheat kernels can result in fermentation, rendering the harvest unsuitable for Passover use. But rain is scarce in Arizona, which allows for a stricter standard of matzah production.

Rabbis from New York travel to Arizona in the days leading up to the harvest, where they inspect the grains meticulously to ensure they are cut at the precise moisture levels.

4. At the seder, Persian Jews whip each other with scallions.

Many of the Passover seder rituals are intended to re-create the sensory experience of Egyptian slavery, from the eating of bitter herbs and matzah to the dipping of greenery in saltwater, which symbolizes the tears shed by the oppressed Israelites. Some Jews from Iran and Afghanistan have the tradition of whipping each other with green onions before the singing of “Dayenu.”

5. Karaite Jews skip the wine.

Karaite Jews reject rabbinic Judaism, observing only laws detailed in the Torah. That’s why they don’t drink the traditional four cups of wine at the seder. Wine is fermented, and fermented foods are prohibited on Passover, so instead they drink fruit juice. (Mainstream Jews hold that only fermented grains are prohibited.) The Karaites also eschew other staples of the traditional seder, in-

cluding the seder plate and haroset. Their maror (bitter herbs) is a mixture of lemon peel, bitter lettuce and an assortment of other herbs.

6. Israeli Jews have only one seder.

Israeli Jews observe only one Passover seder, unlike everywhere else where traditionally two seders are held, one on each of the first two nights of the holiday. Known as “yom tov sheni shel galuyot” – literally “the second festival day of the Diaspora” – the practice was begun 2,000 years ago when Jews were informed of the start of a new lunar month only after it had been confirmed by witnesses in Jerusalem. Because Jewish communities outside of Israel were often delayed in learning the news, they consequently couldn’t be sure precisely which day festivals were meant to be observed. As a result, the practice of observing two seder days was instituted just to be sure.

7. You’re wrong about the orange on the seder plate.

Some progressive Jews have adopted the practice of including an orange on the seder plate as a symbol of inclusion of gays, lesbians and other groups marginalized in the Jewish community. The story goes that the practice was instituted by the feminist scholar Susannah Heschel after she was told that a woman belongs on the synagogue bimah, or prayer podium, like an orange belongs

on a seder plate. But according to Heschel, that story is false.

In that apocryphal version, she said, “a woman’s words are attributed to a man, and the affirmation of lesbians and gay men is erased. Isn’t that precisely what’s happened over the centuries to women’s ideas?”

8. “Afikomen” isn’t Hebrew.

For many seder participants, the highlight of the meal is the afikomen – a broken piece of matzah that the seder leader hides and the children search for; the person who finds the afikomen usually gets a small reward. Most scholars believe the word “afikomen” derives from the Greek word for dessert. Others say it refers to a kind of post-meal revelry common among the Greeks. Either theory would explain why the afikomen is traditionally the last thing eaten at the seder.

9. For North African Jews, after Passover comes Mimouna.

Most people are eager for a break from holiday meals when the eight-day Passover holiday concludes. But for the Jews of North Africa, the holiday’s end is the perfect time for another feast, Mimouna, marking the beginning of spring. Celebrated after nightfall on the last day of Passover, Mimouna is marked by a large spread of foods and the opening of homes to guests.

The celebration is often laden with symbolism, including fish for fertility and golden rings for wealth.

Join Us!

Sundays at 2:00PM In March and April

Temple Beth-­‐El Meeting Hall 70 Orchard Avenue Providence, RI

Admission: FREE

“The Healing Power of Music”

Come and enjoy our films, inspiring moderators, and refreshments.

“Who’s Gonna Love Me Now” – March 25

After learning that he’s HIV Positive, Saar, an ex Israeli paratrooper and member of the London Gay Men’s Chorus, attempts to reconcile with his religious family in Israel. Discussion with Tonya Glantz, Director of the Institute for Education and Non-­‐Violence.

“The Band’s Visit” – April 8

A band comprised of eight members of the Egyptian police are forced to travel to Israel to play a concert and find themselves lost in the wrong Israeli town.

Discussion with Paula Davidson-­‐Brodo, Educator.

“East Jerusalem/West Jerusalem” – April 15

In Palestinian East Jerusalem, Israeli singer-­‐songwriter David Boza records and album with American, Palestinian and Israeli musician in protest of Middle East conflict. Discussion with Professor Mike Fink, Rhode Island School of Design.

Presented by the Sisterhood of Temple Beth-­‐El

jvhri.org

PASSOVER

March 16, 2018 |

19

From a Passover of alienation to a Passover of empathy and there are other peoples, cultures and ethnic groups that have taken our place. In Israel we are the dominant culture and in America we are part of the mainstream.

These are the conditions of life that the Torah envisioned, and not the circumstances under which our forbears have lived for the past 2000 years.

As such, it is time for our Haggadahs and our celebration of Passover, as well as our Jewish consciousness and our behavior, to reflect that change and to go back to basics.

Let the seder be our forum

to proclaim and inculcate an ethic of empathy for the other emanating from two intertwined experiences: 1, Never again! Never again shall any people suffer what we suffered in Egypt. And 2, we take it upon ourselves to continually struggle to redeem the other, just as God redeemed us.

RABBI HANAN SCHLESINGER lives in Alon Shvut, Gush Etzion, and serves as the director of international relations for Roots/Judur/Shorashim, the Israeli Palestinian Local Initiative for Understanding, Nonviolence and Transfor-

mation. He also frequently travels to Dallas, where he serves as the executive director of the Jewish Studies Initiative. His website is ravhanan.org.

This piece appeared originally on Rabbis Without Borders, a dynamic forum for exploring contemporary issues in the Jewish world and beyond.

Written by rabbis of different denominations, viewpoints and parts of the country, Rabbis Without Borders is a project of Clal-The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership.

(My Jewish Learning via JTA) – One of the most oft-repeated themes of the Torah is that we must remember that we were slaves and strangers in the Land of Egypt, and that God redeemed us with an outstretched hand. Both the experience of slavery and the experience of redemption are meant to radiate one central and fundamental call to action that the Torah comes back to again and again.

Slavery and strangerhood: Love the stranger and care for him, provide for him and show him empathy. Feel his pain and act to alleviate it, deal kindly with him, for you yourself know what it means to be a stranger and a slave.

Redemption: Walk in the footsteps of God, who redeemed us from Egypt, and redeem the slave and the downtrodden. Provide for them as God provided for us. Just as God’s mercies are upon all His creatures, so ought our mercies to be upon all His creatures.

The world is divided into us and them. That is the way that it has to be. In order to experience the security and the love of the family, the clan, the nation, there have to be those who are not part of our inner concentric circles.

At the same time, however, one of the most central directives of the Torah is that this division must never be so stark as to alienate the us from the them. Our love and concern must radiate out beyond the us toward the them. Our sense of us must empower our people to reach out to them.

We recall and relive our experience in Egypt on the holiday of Passover, the centerpiece of the Jewish year and the focal point of the process of handing down the tradition to the next

generation. And the focal point of Passover is the seder night with its Haggadah text. The Haggadah tells us: “In every generation one must see himself as if he personally went out of Egypt.” We spend the whole night bringing alive the events of slavery and redemption.

Toward what end? What is the takeaway? Clearly the answer ought to be to develop within us the historical memory that will constantly remind us and inspire us to love the stranger and redeem him from his suffering.

Yet this message is completely missing from the Haggadah.

It certainly harps on our misery in Egypt, but instead of using that experience to nurture empathy for those who suffer, it sees in it a paradigm for the panorama of Jewish history, reminding us “in every generation they rise against us to annihilate us, and the Holy One Blessed be He saves us from them.”

The reason for this lacuna – at least one of the reasons – may be that during the 1,000plus years during which the Haggadah text developed, we Jews were the slaves and the strangers, and the dominant cultures were antagonistic to our way of life and often to our very existence. We were the other and little love was lost on us. Our forefathers were too busy surviving to find room in our hearts and in our texts to teach ourselves about love of the stranger and empathy for his suffering. The larger message of Passover was postponed for the distant future.

That future may have arrived. Reality today is different, in Israel and to a large degree in many parts of America, from that which our forefathers knew. We are no longer the other that we used to be,

BY HANAN SCHLESINGER

The Miriam Hospital wishes you a happy passover.

HVAC LOCATIONS Avon, MA ∙ Woburn MA ∙ E. Hartford CT

miriamhospital.org

20 | March 16, 2018

PASSOVER | COMMUNITY

The Jewish Voice

Discussing the book at the recent meeting.

A plot twist thrills members of new book club

BY LEV POPLOW PROVIDENCE – Sunday, Feb. 25, was a beautiful late winter day. It was the kind of day that makes you want to shake off the winter blues, to get up, get out and get moving.

That Sunday also marked the first meeting of the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center’s Not Your Average Book Club. Robin Kauffman, one of the new club’s facilitators, was concerned that no one would attend the meeting because they would be unable to resist the sunshine and mild temperatures outdoors.

It turns out that her worries were for nothing. SBHEC’s conference room was so full for the book club’s inaugural meeting that they had to pull in extra chairs to accommodate everyone who came to discuss Alyson Richman’s “The Velvet Hours.”

As Kauffman introduced the themes of the story, she told the group that a surprise had been arranged for them.

join the conversation! Needless to say, everyone was thrilled to “meet” the author.

Richman talked about the book and answered questions for 45 minutes, and the conversation continued long after the call ended. Not bad for a group that advertised itself as a “no obligation” book club designed for people who might not have time to complete the reading.

Clearly, there’s nothing average about the Not Your Average Book Club.

The group plans to meet three or four times a year. The next book is “The Sandcastle Girl,”

by Chris Bohjalian, which is set in Aleppo, Syria, in 1915, in the aftermath of the Armenian genocide. Watch for the date on the Bornstein Center’s Facebook page or website, www. bornsteinholocaustcenter.org.

Fifteen minutes into the meeting, Kauffman’s cellphone rang. Instead of apologizing and scrambling to mute the device, she smiled and announced that the surprise had arrived: Alyson Richman was calling to

LEV POPLOW is a communications and development consultant who writes for the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, in Providence. He can be reached at levpoplow@ gmail.com.

Paid for by Whitehouse for Senate.

jvhri.org COMMUNITY

| PASSOVER

March 16, 2018 |

21

Congregation Beth David celebrates Purim

Children in costume at the recent Congregation Beth David Purim Carnival in Narragansett.

PHOTO | BILL OSTENDORF

Information in store Mrs. Michla Laufer with the Chabad table March 11 at the Stop and Shop on Branch Avenue. Shoppers could learn about Passover and pick up information such as a flier with the blessings and candlelighting times.

Abby Kaufman.

PHOTOS | CBD

Rabbi Ethan Adler, left, and Rabbi Sol Goodman.

22 | March 16, 2018

PASSOVER

The Jewish Voice

Here are some new children’s books for Passover – and spring, too

BY PENNY SCHWARTZ JTA – A talking parrot saves the family seder and a moose-musician is eager to host his perfect first Passover meal in a pair of delightful new children’s books for the holiday, which this year begins on the night of March 30.

A third book celebrates the rich diversity of the Jewish people through photographs.

Looking beyond Passover, a new crop of Jewish children’s books beckons for the spring that includes a picture book on Moe Berg, the Jewish baseball player who became a spy for the U.S. government; an adventure chapter book that travels back to the days of King Solomon; and a rollicking graphic novel on the life story of Dr. Ruth Westheimer.

Paulie’s Passover Predicament Jane Sutton; illustrated by: Barbara Vagnozzi Kar-Ben; ages 3-8

P

aulie is a guitarplaying moos-ician who is hosting his very first seder and wants it to be perfect. At the grocery store, he piles his cart with boxes of matzah, candles and grape juice. But Paulie’s guests – a porcupine, bear, bunny and others – giggle and poke fun at his seder plate with its big ostrich egg, saltwater with pepper, and pine cones rather than walnuts for the ceremonial Haroset.

Kids will get in on the action when Paulie sets out to search

Gary Cherrington Kar-Ben; ages 5-9

N for the hidden afikomen – until the basement door closes behind him. Paulie solves the problem and later leads his friends in a rendition of “Dayenu”; he is very grateful for his freedom.

Jane Sutton’s playful story, enhanced by Barbara Vagnozzi’s illustrations, captures the excitement of celebrating Passover with a tender touch that reinforces the importance of being kind to friends.

The Passover Parrot

Evelyn Zusman; illustrated by: Kyrsten Brooker Kar-Ben; ages 3-8

L

ily lives in a brownstone in Brooklyn with her parents and six brothers and sisters.

She loves swinging on a tire swing that hangs from a large tree in their New York City backyard. As the family prepares to celebrate Passover, a neighbor who is moving drops off her pet parrot as a gift that delights Lily – her mom, however, doesn’t share the excitement. The parrot’s name is Hametz, the word for bread and

other leavened food that is not eaten during Passover.

Lily is determined to recite the Four Questions in Hebrew at the seder, but everyone is too busy to help her practice. Except Hametz, who repeats the questions back to Lily. With a houseful of guests, Lily’s father is not amused when hametz chimes in with Lily and he banishes the parrot to the girl’s room. Will the seder be ruined when Lily discovers hametz and the afikomen missing from her room? Lily solves the mystery and the seder comes to an uplifting end.

This is a newly illustrated 35th anniversary edition of this story by Evelyn Zusman, who was a Hebrew school teacher in New York and Los Angeles, according to Kar-Ben. A lively Lily and hametz are center stage throughout the book’s colorful illustrations by Canadian artist Kyrsten Brooker. She draws readers in on the scenes that evoke a nostalgic feel of urban Jewish life in the early to mid-20th century.

We Are Jewish Faces

Debra B. Davick Apples & Honey Press; ages 5-8

T

his collection of colorful photographs conveys the rich diversity of Jews today, with the faces of Jewish children and teens with their grandparents, friends, brothers and sisters. While the recommended age range is 5-8, the lively but simple photographs will also appeal to younger ones, who will be fascinated by the cheerful faces of other kids.

The settings traverse the globe, the Jewish life cycle and calendar, from blowing the shofar, eating matzah and lighting a Hanukkah menorah to graduations, Bar Mitzvahs and other milestones. Kids are dressed in contemporary clothes and traditional decorated Yemenite clothing.

In an author’s note, Debra Davick writes that she was inspired to create the book by visiting her children’s Jewish day school many years ago – a community that included Jewish children from an array of Jewish families.

Here are some new Jewish titles on the springtime bookshelves:

The Spy Who Played Baseball Carrie Jones; illustrated by

othing says spring like baseball. This new book introduces kids to the unusual story of Moe Berg, a Princetoneducated, multilingual major leaguer from the 1930s who was inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. During World War II, Berg became an intelligence officer for the U.S. war efforts, including in Nazi-controlled Europe.

Search for the Shamir

Eric A. Kimmel; illustrations by: Ivica Stevanovic Kar-Ben; ages 6-9

T

his is the second in the “Scarlett and Sam” series, a Jewish chapter book for older readers. Eric Kimmel, a popular and award-winning author, delivers a fun adventure story with returning fictional twins Scarlett and Sam, who travel back in time to ancient Jerusalem, where they face the challenge of finding a mythical insect called the shamir that the ruler needs to build the First Temple.

Roller Coaster Grandma: The Amazing Story of Dr. Ruth Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer and Pierre Lehu; illustrated

by Mark Simmons Apples & Honey Press; ages 8-12

I

n this graphic novel, kids follow the remarkable life journey of Ruth Westheimer, the sextherapist media star known as Dr. Ruth who fled the Nazis on a Kindertransport, trained as a sniper with the Haganah in Israel and immigrated to the U.S.

jvhri.org

PASSOVER

March 16, 2018 |

My primitive Passover scavenger hunt

BY LINDA PRESSMAN (Kveller via JTA) – When I see the giant gefilte fish and matzah display at Costco in late February, it sends me into a panic. I think, is it time for gefilte fish already? I think that finding the holiday foods, including that gigantic jar of gefilte fish, is not easy and maybe I should stockpile now. I start thinking about how many people I’m having for Passover – a lot or a few? One manageable table or an impossible four?

Most of the year I’m a pretty normal American woman. I look normal. I dress in a fairly normal manner. I walk in grocery stores and have a vaguely normal shopping list.

Yes, there are certain Jewish holidays here and there where I’m maybe shopping for 20-pound bags of potatoes in the winter, apples and honey, round challahs and smoked fish in the fall, or poppy filling in March. All a little odd.

But then there’s Passover.

Costco, of course, can only satisfy a few needs for this holiday. Though I’m willing to bounce back and forth between its kosher smoked fish case and the Passover display, both forming a miniature Pale of Settlement in the store for Jewish shoppers to cling to, eventually I must venture out to the Jewish section of the regular grocery stores, to their Pesach tables, and to the kosher stores to get everything else I need.

Shopping for Passover is like being on the worst scavenger hunt ever. My grocery list looks like it was written in medieval Poland. I need a really big brisket. Like maybe an entire cow.

And chicken livers. Like the whole chicken.

And maybe 10,000 eggs.

I need horseradish – red and white. I need fish and potatoes, matzah and parsley. Coconut and carrots. Apples and wal-

nuts and honey and wine. Oh, and they wouldn’t happen to have four shankbones hanging around, would they? One time when my mother was alive, she had a craving for real kishke. I went to the store with her instructions: I needed rendered fat and casings. The butcher seemed mystified.

How did I become my mother?

Or, rather, my grandmother, great-grandmother and greatgreat-grandmother, all the way down the line? How did I get so fascinated with the butchers at all the grocery stores in town, interrogating the staff about their briskets, their chicken livers, the weights and when they’re expected?

When I’ve bought everything on my list, I start cooking very meticulously. I cling to the idea that if I’m organized about this, I can be ready. I can’t really be ready.

Sometimes while I’m out shopping, I run into the rest of the world. There they are, happy normal people, out shopping for regular groceries, like bread, or in the Easter aisle buying chocolate eggs, squishy Peeps and giant chocolate Easter bunnies. I’m somewhat surprised that the world is just ticking along as normal, and there’s not an emergency in their kitchens like there is in mine. Because no matter how far ahead I start, no matter how much I’m sure I’m finished the night before, it never fails that two hours before the seder I have to call my sister for emergency backup, for parsley sprig placement or peeling boiled eggs.

Back at the store, I find the last thing on my list, horseradish root for the seder plate – a gnarled, primitive-looking thing that I grasp in my matching gnarled hand – and I head home.

“My grocery list looks like it was written in me medieval Poland. I need a really big brisket. Like maybe an entire cow.”

Treat the cause. Defeat the symptom.

Happy Passover from Dr. Z and the entire team at AAPRI! Convenient locations throughout RI. Check us out today.

401-751-1235 | www.aapri.net

Your only Rhode Island Online Jewish Newspaper

www.jvhri.org

23

24 | March 16, 2018

PASSOVER

The Jewish Voice

Embracing two very different Passover seders

PATRICIA RASKIN

Meora Bitton is a public relations major at the University of Rhode Island and is working for my business this semester as an intern.

Bitton, who is a Sephardic

Moroccan Jew, has written about how her family celebrates Passover. Her father is Orthodox and her mother is Reform, and since they are divorced, she has experienced two different types of Passover seders.

Not only do her parents practice Judaism differently, but her mother’s family is Polish and her father’s is Moroccan, which creates even greater dif-

ferences between the way each side celebrates the holiday.

Here are my questions and Bitton’s answers about her Passover experiences: Q. What is your earliest memory of your seder? What stood out to you when you were younger?

A. My earliest memories from Passover seders with my family are different from a typical Passover seder. My father’s side of the family is fully observant Sephardic Moroccan Jews, and we have always kept our family traditions alive during our seders.

One of the Moroccan traditions we practice during the seder is the [blessing] of Bibhilu.

During this time, the leader of the seder, who is always my father, holds the seder plate and walks around the table waving the seder plate over each person’s head while singing the song.

It always seemed so silly to me growing up, but the ritual has a significant meaning behind it. The chant/song goes as follows, “Bibhilu yatsanu mimitsrayim”; this translates to, “In a hurry we left Egypt.” While we practice this ritual, the family always sings in unison and we giggle because of how funny it looks. This is my most prominent memory from my family’s Passover seders from as far back as I can remember.

Q, What was it like going to

a religious Sephardic seder in comparison to a more Reform Ashkenazic seder?

A. At my father’s seder, all components on the seder plate are homemade (unless it is a vegetable) because they believe it is more significant and meaningful when made from scratch.

At my mother’s seder, she buys all of the foods for the seder plate at the grocery store.

Additionally, at my father’s seder, since he is religious, there is no use of electronics at all over the holiday, unlike my mother’s house, where electronics and driving are always allowed. In regard to my father’s seder, I appreciate the fact that we do not have cellphones at the table because it allows us to take full advantage of family time without any distraction.

Lastly, there are only family members at my father’s seders because he believes Passover must be spent with family, not friends. My mother believes that Passover should be celebrated with anyone close to you, which is why she invited non-religious family members and close family friends.

Q. What about the differences in the food and length of the seders?

A. My mother’s side of the family is Ashkenazic and Reform/Conservative. The seders at my mother’s house are shorter and go less in depth [about] all steps and aspects of the seder.

These seders last a maximum of two hours and are more on the laid-back side.

My father’s side of the family is Sephardic and Orthodox.

Sephardic Jews eat rice over Passover while the Ashkenazic Jews do not eat rice.

At my father’s religious seder, he encourages everyone at our seder table to engage in conversation about the holiday, ask questions and discuss its history and significance. My father’s seders last for many hours, often after midnight.

Q. What do you want to pass on to your children about Passover?

A. I’d like to have no electronics at the Passover seder table in order to differentiate the holiday from every other normal day. I don’t necessarily care if the foods on the seder plate are homemade, I care more about the idea of Passover and keeping the significant traditions alive. I also care about spending Passover with family, but that does not mean I am opposed to inviting close friends over for the seder as well.

Q. What do you like best about both seders?

A. My father’s Passover seder is focused on the religious aspect of the holiday. At my mother’s seder, it is essentially a time to spend quality time with our extended family, whom we do not see often.

PATRICIA RASKIN, president of Raskin Resources Productions Inc., is an awardwinning radio producer and Rhode Island business owner.

She is the host of “The Patricia Raskin” show, a radio and podcast coach, and a board member of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence.

School S treet D E R M A T O L O G Y School S treet

D EMEETING R MTHEASKIN T CARE O NEEDS L O OFG Y RI AND MA COMMUNITIES

David S. Pomerantz, M.D.* Neil E. Toback, M.D. MEETING THE NEEDS OFMPAS, PA-C Annette Fonteneau, MSN, RNP,SKIN DCNPCARE William J. Wray, RIRN, AND MA COMMUNITIES Natalie R. Driscoll, NP-C Louis Lam, PA-C

David S. Pomerantz, M.D.* Toback, M.D. SEEING PATIENTS OFNeil ALLE.AGES! Annette Fonteneau, MSN, RNP, DCNP William J. Wray, MPAS, PA-C * Natalie R. Driscoll, RN, NP-C Louis Lam, PA-C

333 SCHOOL STREET, SUITE 112A PAWTUCKET | 401-728-6990

SEEING PATIENTS OF ALL AGES!

schoolstreetdermatology.com

*

333 SCHOOL STREET, SUITE 112A

NEWLY EXPANDEDPAWTUCKET OFFICE Accepti new patients | Bi-lingual provider |ng 401-728-6990 EXTENDED HOURS Early morning and evening | Saturdays COSMETIC APPPOINTMENTS Botox | Dysport | Fillers

schoolstreetdermatology.com

NEWLY EXPANDED OFFICE Accepting new patients | Bi-lingual provider EXTENDED HOURS Early morning and evening | Saturdays COSMETIC APPPOINTMENTS Botox | Dysport | Fillers

jvhri.org

PASSOVER

March 16, 2018 |

REMEMBER THE PAST From the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association

The Providence Passover Journal and the Third Seder

BY RUTH BREINDEL The Providence Passover Journal is truly a Rhode Island creation, one that inspired groups in New York, Chicago and Philadelphia to create similar publications.

Published in Providence between 1929 and 1964, the Passover Journal came out of the work of Poale Zion, a Zionist labor organization from Russia.

This group, after many twists and turns, arrived in North America along with a wave of Russian Jews.

In Providence, Poale Zion merged with a similar German group and eventually hosted the Third Seder annually.

Alter Boyman, along with Henry Burt and Morris Beeber, was the driving force behind this extra seder. Held in private homes, and with some support from the Rhode Island Jewish Federation, this seder was not for religious purposes, but for entertainment – songs, speakers and fellowship. Speeches were made about farms and life in Israel, and those assembled gave support to Histadruth, an Israeli trade union established in the 1920s.

The annual Passover Journal was distributed at this Third Seder. The cover of one of the journals shows a stalwart Israeli farmer striding into the future. Articles focused on agriculture – farms and cooperatives for produce distribution – and trade schools, loan associations and the cultural life of Israeli workers.

Among the local rabbis and authors who wrote articles were Rabbi Eli A. Bohnen, Rabbi William G. Braude, Rabbi Morris Schussheim, Rabbi Meir Lasker (son-in-law of the Boymans), Dr. Harry Broadman, Selig Greenberg, Morris Shoam, Nathan Resnick, Harry Beck, Dr. Harry Elkin, Jerry Segal-Foster, and Beryl Segal. Even poets contributed: Solomon Lightman, Samuel Sherman, Bas Tuvya (Janet Shoham-Resnick), and Dr. Phillip M. Philips There was also always a satirical letter from a “friend” (Alter Boyman), which made gentle fun of Jewish life in Providence but also praised the good works of Jewish organizations in the city, including the free loan associations, women’s groups, The Miriam Hospital and the Jewish orphanage.

The journal was written in English and Yiddish, with English in the front half and Yiddish in the back half.

The final Third Seder in Providence was held in 1964.

These journals are a treasure trove of information about

Happy Passover!

the times. In addition to the articles, there are advertisements from businesses long gone, many in both English and Yiddish. While it isn’t the full run, the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association has the most complete collection available, which you can access at www.bit.ly/2oPKtpC.

For more information about the Passover Journals, see an article by Beryl Segal in Notes 8.1, November 1979, pp. 55-61, at www.rijha.org/publications/ notes-available-on-this-site.

RUTH BREINDEL is president of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association.

Happy Passover ~ from ~

Attorney General

Peter F. Kilmartin

25

26 | March 16, 2018

BUSINESS

The Jewish Voice

Business and Professional Directory R E ROCHELLE ELLEN ZIEGLER REALTOR®

Sarasota is like the Newport of the south minus the snow and with price points for all.

(401) 474-0735 CELL (401) 739-9500 OFFICE (401) 732-6312 FAX rochelle.ziegler12@gmail.com

ABR, CNAS, ASP, CRS Licensed in RI and MA Owned And Operated

By NRT LLC.

For a list of current homes and condominiums for sale, email me at CMSellsSarasota@gmail.com

Carol Bienenfeld Mitchell 831 Bald Hill Road | Warwick, RI 02886 www.NewEnglandMoves.com

Owned and operated by NRT LLC.

941-993-9983 | CMSellsSarasota@gmail.com

B/R E F Permanent Mortgages | SBA Loans Bridge Financing | Construction Loans Working Capital Lines | Advisory Services

CPA Larry B. Parness Nikki M. Parness thinking inside the RIGHT box

Michael L. Friedman

Clubhouse Capital LLC 401-529-6400 | clubcapmlf@gmail.com

www.ClubhouseCapital.com 56 Pine Street | 3rd Floor | Providence RI 02903

Full service financial firm providing Business/Individual Consulting Tax Preparation | Financial Planning 401-454-0900 • info@larrybparness.com 128 Dorrance St. • Suite 520 • Providence, RI 02903 You’ve known me for your taxes...

Now see us for the rest of your financial story.

H I

C

V

Deep Allison Oster Dessel 401.339.6316

Jonathan Weinstein 401.339.1341

RHODE ISLAND & MASSACHUSETTS villagecoinandbullion.com | villagecb@gmail.com

INTEGRITY. EXPERTISE. PROFESSIONALISM.

T J V Let our advertisers know you saw them in The Voice!

I Retirement Medicare 101 Finding the Right Medicare Option for You Jeffrey G. Brier CLU, ChFC, CASL

David Soforenko, CIC President & COO

Discover “The Starkweather Difference”

Brier & Brier Insurance & Employee Benefits

To advertise your business in this directory email or call: Karen Borger: 401-529-2538 ksborger@gmail.com

Chris Westerkamp: 401-421-4111, ext. 160 cwesterkamp@jewishallianceri.org

...an Assurex Global Partner

jvhri.org BUSINESS

| COMMUNITY

March 16, 2018 |

27

Shabbaton New England Yachad and National Council of Synagogue Youth participants came together recently for an inclusive high school Shabbaton at Congregation Beth Sholom in Providence.

PHOTO | YACHAD

PHOTOS | PHDS

Milestone celebration Providence Hebrew Day School students hold their new siddurim that they received at their Siddur Party on Monday, Feb. 19. Standing behind the students are

Miriam Esther Weiner, principal, Rabbi Avrohom Jakubowicz, first grade Judaic Studies teacher, and Rabbi Peretz Scheinerman, dean.

First-grader Shmuel Bielory, left, recites one of his parts at the Providence Hebrew Day School Siddur Party on Feb. 19.

Business and Professional Directory Paving

Watch Repair & Sales Bob Knych 650 Oaklawn Avenue, Unit G | Cranston, RI 02920

Gem Paving and Seal Coating

· Certified watch service center in business for 34 years · Specializes in restoration and repair of modern and antique timepieces · Services high-end brands including:

Bus. (401) 725-6705 (401) 475-1010 Pawtucket, RI 02860

Free Estimates Fully Insured Lic# 20547

WE ARE THE BIGGEST IN RI BECAUSE WE ARE THE BEST

Tag Heuer, Cartier, Rolex, Brietling, Movado, Ebel, and Raymond Weil

401.946.5158 | www.delmanwatch.com

3 GENERATIONS SERVICING THE USA SINCE 1940

Factory Authorized Service Center for: Glycine, Luminox, Victorinox Swiss Army, Mondaine, Torgoen, Swarovski and more...

OVER 1 MILLION WATCHES REPAIRED FREE ESTIMATES WHILE YOU WAIT

Let our advertisers know you saw them in The Voice!

1024 Reservoir Ave Cranston, RI, 02910 401-946-0930

117 Swinburne Row Brick Market Place Newport, RI, 02840 401-841-0011

www.saltzmans-watches.com

OBITUARIES

28 | March 16, 2018

ASK THE DIRECTOR

BY MICHAEL D. SMITH F.D./R.E. Shalom Memorial Chapel

Question: Can a non-Jewish person give a eulogy at a Jewish funeral?

D. D. Cranston Dear D. D., Yes. Any person the family allows may give a eulogy.

QUESTIONS ARE WELCOMED AND ENCOURAGED. Please send questions to: ShalomChapel@aol.com or by mail to Ask the Director, c/o Shalom Memorial Chapel, 1100 New London Ave., Cranston, R.I. 02920.

With 12 years experience we continue to create personalized, meaningful memorials. Wording both in Hebrew and English. Relevant etching can be included.

Ira Jay Fleisher (401) 265-2330

fleishermonumentco@gmail.com

The Jewish Voice

Muriel Borts, 90

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Muriel (“Dolly”) Borts, died on March 8 in Providence. She was the daughter of Abraham and Fanny Levenson and wife of the late Professor G e o r g e H .

Bor ts. Dolly was predeceased by her sister Grace (George) Saypol, brother Robert (Evelyn Hersch) Levenson, and brother in-law Lawrence (Beverly) Borts.

She was the mother of David (Lucia Fontes) Borts, Richard (Paulette York) Borts and Robert (Erin O’Cain) Borts.

She was a passionate and loving grandmother of Alexander (Alexendra), Andrew and Liana Borts. Dolly was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on Sept. 30, 1927, and educated at Hunter College of the City University of New York, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1947.

Dolly was married to George for 65 years, traveling with him in support of his passion for economics, living around the country and the world, in New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., London, Zurich, Sapporo, Japan and of course, Providence. After raising her family, she was a passionate supporter of literacy programs and dedicated her life to helping others, through both a professional library career at the Providence Athenaeum and support of reading and library programs.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association RI Chapter, 245 Waterman St. #306, Providence, RI 02906 or Hope Hospice of RI, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904.

Rita Eisman, 85

WARWICK, R.I. – Rita Eisman of Warwick died peacefully on March 10 with her family by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late Irving A. Eisman, daughter of the late Fannie (Brandwein) and Samuel

Schweitzer of Brooklyn, New York, and sister of the late Myra Ellen Cooke.

She is survived by her daughters Sharon and Bonnie Eisman, both of Warwick, her incredibly devoted dog Goody (aka Goomba), and two feathered family members, Oscar and Felix, who now live at Foster Parrots, an exotic wildlife sanctuary.

Rita was born in New York, attended Prospect Heights High School and Brooklyn College.

She was smart, tough, funny, and an avid animal lover and advocate. Rita was a Docent Emeritus at the Roger Williams Park Zoo where she volunteered for 20 years, and the Phoenix Zoo in Arizona for 10 years. She was member-at-large of the East Greenwich Animal Protection League, where she also served as president for six years, and a long time member of Defenders for Animals in Providence. Rita was a life member of Hadassah, a member of Temple BethEl, and the Mahjong Club. She enjoyed Bridge and Canasta as well.

Rita is also survived by her nephew Jeffrey Cooke and his family of North Kingstown, and Steven Cooke and family of Kennewick, Washington.

Contributions in her memory may be made to your favorite charity.

Charles Elbaum, 91

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Charles Elbaum passed away peacefully March 4 with his wife Eleanor (Dinaburg) Elbaum by his side.

Charles and Ellie were married for 61 years. Born in Lublin, Poland, he was the son of the late Chil and Hannah (Kaffe) Elbaum.

After WWII, he studied in Belgium, Paris and Toronto.

In 1959, he joined the faculty of Brown University, where he was a professor of physics for more than 50 years.

Charles was an avid skier, sailor and wind surfer. Charles and Ellie enjoyed traveling internationally and to their homes in Providence and Jamestown.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his sons Michael Elbaum and his wife, Rivka, Daniel Elbaum and his wife, Deborah, and David Elbaum and his wife Kimberly Cooper; and grandchildren Hannah, Nathan, Ori, Shira, Carly, Noah, Eliza and Ilan.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Brown University Department of Physics Special Fund, Box 1843, 182 Hope St., Providence, RI 02912 or http://brown.edu/go/giving/ physics-special.

Ruth Goldman, 90

JOHNSTON, R.I. – Ruth Goldman died March 2 at Cherry Hill Manor. She was the beloved wife of the late Louis Goldman.

Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Morris and Eva (Pockar) Solinger, she had lived in Cranston for over 50 years.

She was a bookkeeper for Klitzner Industries. Ruth was an avid duplicate bridge player and loved antiquing.

She was the devoted mother of Sandra Goldman of Cranston and the late Joan Goldman Carroll. She was the dear sister of Miriam Gauthier and the late William Solinger. She was the loving grandmother of Leah and Hayley.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Hope Alzheimer’s Center, 25 Brayton Ave., Cranston, RI 02920.

William Lewis, 87

Boxford, MASS. – William Michael Lewis died peacefully on March 2 after a life filled with family, friends, and love.

Bill was born on July 4, 1930, in Providence, the only child of Anna (Solomon) Lewis and Israel Budner Lewis. He attended Peekskill Military Academy in New York where he was a club officer, the quarterback of the football team and played varsity lacrosse, soccer and basketball. He attended Rutgers University before being drafted into the Army in 1950.

While serving in Japan and Korea durOBITUARIES | 29

taking care of each other is what community is all about.

For over a century, we’ve proudly served our Jewish community with personal, compassionate care.

SUGARMAN SINAI Memorial Chapel 458 Hope St., Providence

Certified by the Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island

SugarmanSinai.com 401-331-8094

jvhri.org

WORLD | OBITUARIES

March 16, 2018 |

29

More women are in charge of Jewish groups in the former Soviet Union

BY CNAAN LIPHSHIZ JTA – For a man to gallantly open a door for a female stranger is neither common nor universally appreciated in Ukraine, where gender salary gaps used to be illegal and female tank crews fought the Nazis.

Throughout the former Soviet Union, the communist revolution instituted far-reaching gender equality at a time when women in some Western countries, including the United States, were not yet allowed to vote.

Indeed, the first time that International Women’s Day, which was March 8, was declared a national holiday was in the Soviet Union, in 1918. It was later adopted by the United Nations in 1975, but it remains to this day a bank holiday in several post-communist countries.

(It’s also the only day when holding a door for a strange woman on the street or giving her flowers is guaranteed not to invoke any negative reaction.)

FROM PAGE 28

The collapse of communism caused the collapse of government enforcement of gender equality in the workplace, resulting in Western-style wage gaps. Although overshadowed by its grim human rights record and repressive state machinery, communism’s feminist agenda seems to have had a particularly strong and lasting effect in unexpected places – including on the leadership of the sizable Jewish minority of the former Soviet Union, or FSU. In Europe today, the only national Jewish communities with female presidents – there are three among more than 20 – are FSU countries. A woman also presides over the Jewish community of Warsaw, Poland.

The dominant role of women in leadership of Eastern bloc communities is especially pronounced in the FSU operations of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC).

Both the regional JDC directors for Eastern and Central Europe are women, with other women heading Jewish com-

OBITUARIES

ing the Korean War, he earned three medals, including the United National Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal with the Bronze Star, and the National Defense Service Medal.

When he returned from the Army, he took a fateful trip to the beach in Narragansett where he met the love of his life, Lois. They married in 1955 and moved to Cranston to start their lives together.

Together, Bill and Lois had three children: Debra, Michael and Steven. Bill was the third generation owner of the family business, M. Solomon Casket Company, where he worked for nearly 46 years before handing the business over to his sons.

After 40 years in Cranston, he and his wife designed and built their dream home in Warwick.

In 1998, they retired and spent winters at their home in Naples.

Each summer, he and Lois returned to Bonniecrest in Newport to spend time with family and celebrate his birthday with fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Bill and Lois were inseparable in their 60 years of marriage, traveling the world, playing tennis, bridge, golf, sailing, and attending the theater and ballet. Bill was an avid stamp collector and enjoyed playing improvised music on the piano. He loved watching football and kept up with everything in politics so he was always up for a debate. Bill was also very active in his community, serving on various committees and boards.

When Lois passed away two years ago, Bill never truly recovered from the loss. She was the center of his world and some

would say he died of a broken heart. He was a deeply caring man who always put his family first. Bill will be remembered for his passion for living and his generosity to others.

He is survived by his children Debra Lewis Hogan and her husband, Lawrence, of Boxford, Michael Lewis and his wife, Brenda, of East Greenwich, and Steven Lewis and his wife, Kathryn, of East Greenwich; five grandchildren, Cory, Rachel, John, Elana, Cara and her husband, Darren; and his sister-in-law Marcia Halpern and her husband, Robert.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Care Dimensions (Hospice), 75 Sylvan St., Danvers, MA 01923 or your favorite charity.

Bernard Saklad, 87

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Bernard Saklad passed away March 8.

He was the husband of the late Ann (Kotchen) Saklad. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Saul and Lillian (Cohen) Saklad.

He was in the first graduating class of Brandeis University and earned a law degree from Suffolk University. He practiced law in Fall River for more than 40 years, working alongside Atty. Bruce Assad who is still practicing; always providing support for the community both in his legal practice as well as a volunteer. He was the vol-

munity centers and other key facilities for JDC across the region – including Kiev, Odessa, Budapest and beyond.

This reality is only partly rooted in communism, according to Anna Grigolaya. She’s a 42-year-old mother of two from the city of Dnipro, in eastern Ukraine, who works as JDC’s resource development manager in that region, which has more than 100,000 Jews.

Women, she said, stepped up to lead Jewish communities in the East not only because they were roughly as educated and experienced as men by the time the Soviet Union had collapsed, but also because “they were the keepers of Jewish tradition when it was suppressed.”

In the absence of synagoguebased spiritual life in the former Soviet Union, “Jewish life happened at home, at family events,” Grigolaya said. In the domestic sphere, which is dominated by women in many societies, “women were the guardians of Judaism” in the absence of rabbis, she suggested.

“So naturally when communism ended, women took up key positions in the effort to rebuild Jewish community life from scratch,” she said.

Grigolaya’s parents used to take her as a child to the home of her grandparents, where the family would have Passover seders. However, to avoid persecution, no one told her that they were having a seder, or even that she was Jewish, Grigolaya recalled.

Women’s centrality to JDC’s eastern operations began immediately after the collapse of the Soviet Union, according to Asher Ostrin, the organization’s senior executive for international affairs. Becoming a JDC staffer then was a “risk,” he said, because it was a foreign operation whose inner workings were largely unknown in the region and one that is dependent on foreign funding.

Women, who had already “predominated in work settings like medicine, education, and social services,” Ostrin said, rose to the challenge “de-

spite its risks.” They possessed “the talents and skills, were less risk averse in their career choices, and displayed a passion, and bravery, for creating Jewish life that was hard to find at that time,” he added.

In the post-communist age, wage gaps in Ukraine, Russia and other countries quickly went from nonexistent to pronounced.

Following Ukraine’s 2013 financial crisis, the gap jumped from a disparity that was slightly lower than the 27 percent in the United States to 41 percent in 2015 for the same level positions, according to the news portal Rabota.

But this resurgence of inequality has been relatively mild in FSU Jewish communities, where women mostly are expected to study and excel professionally.

“I do feel to a large extent equal in my professional life and my Jewish community,” Grigolaya said. “And from what I see in the world today, I think this is extremely fortunate.”

unteer head of the Draft Board and received two citations from Presidents Nixon and Ford for his services.

Bernard was president of Temple Anshei Shalom in Delray Beach, Florida, and vice president of Adas Israel in Fall River, among many other organizations in which he was involved. He was privileged to have met John F. Kennedy Jr., Martin Luther King, and Eleanor Roosevelt.

He is survived by his children Martin Saklad (Elaine), David Saklad (JB) and Sharon Cohen (David); grandchildren Rivka, Shmuel (Perel), Esther, Yakov and Chava; and great-grandson Tzvi.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Providence Hebrew Day School, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906 or Temple Anshei Shalom, 7099 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33446.

mont, and Louis Shapiro and his wife, Ginamaria, of Saunderstown. She was the dear sister of the late Jerry Freiberg and Syril Gordon. She was the loving grandmother of Lane and his wife, Claire, Hannah, Celia, Levi and Ty. Contributions in her memory may be made to Alzheimer Association, 345 Waterman St., #306, Providence, RI 02906.

was the devoted wife of the late Maurice J. Shore. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Adolf and Rosa Marie (Balischansky) Meller, and was formerly of Providence and New Seabury, Massachusetts.

She is survived by her children Allen Shore, Edward Shore, Robert Shore, Peter Shore (Deborah), and Jane Jacober (Alan); grandchildren Stacey Werner (Howard), Matthew Shore (Sari), Sabrina Albano (Gregg), Stefani Andres (Richard), Suzanne Walke (Evan), Andrew Jacober, Michelle Nelson-Shore (Ziv), and Heather Shore; g reat-g randchi ldren Jacob, Sofia, Isabella, Branden, Skyler, Capri, Olivia, and Taylor. She was the sister of the late Pauline M. Berger, Max E. Meller, and Robert Meller. She was an adored aunt and beloved friend to many.

Fannie graduated from Classical High School and Boston University.

Her caring for others began at an early age, raising money for the Community Chest. This instilled a lifetime commitment of community and volunteer service, including being a den mother, a member of Temple Beth-El Sisterhood, ORT, an active member of Christians and Jews, Brandeis, president of the National Council of Jewish Women of RI, the resettlement of Russian refugees, a board member of Jewish Family Service, one of the first volunteers for Meals on Wheels, president of the Women’s Division Jewish Federation of RI, other leadership roles at JFRI and becoming an honorary director.

Contributions may be made to Temple Beth-El or your favorite charity.

Ruth Shapiro, 90 CRANSTON, R.I. – Ruth Shapiro died March 2 at Village House Nursing Home. She was the beloved wife of the late Lester Shapiro. Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Max and Lillian (Burwick) Freiberg, she had lived in Cranston for more than 60 years, previously living in Providence.

She was a teller at 1st Federal Bank for six years and Old Stone Bank for 10 years, and worked in sales at the Providence Performing Arts Center for five years. Ruth was a member of Garden City School PTA and a former member of Temple Sinai and its sisterhood.

She was the devoted mother of Don Shapiro of Chicago, Illinois, Mort Shapiro and his wife, Michelle, of Burlington, Ver-

Shirley Shapiro, 85

Warwick, R.I. – Shirley Shapiro died March 3 at Rhode Island Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Stanley Tolchinsky and Harold Shapiro, and longtime companion of Stanley “Babe” Greenstein of Warwick.

Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Ben and Gertrude (Gershovitz) Snyder, she had lived in Warwick for 24 years, previously living in Cranston.

She was a secretary at the ACI for 10 years, retiring in 2012. Shirley was a member of Temple Beth-El. She enjoyed attending Touro Fraternal Association events and traveling.

She was the devoted mother of Jon Tolchinsky and his wife, Mindy, of Warwick, Howard Tolchinsky and his wife, Alma, of Rocky Point, Mexico, and the late Marjorie Tolchinsky.

She was the dear sister of the late Lenore Gross. She was the loving grandmother of Sydney and Zachary Tolchinsky. She was the cherished aunt of Terie, Beth, and Fred.

Contributions in her memory may be made to your favorite charity.

Fannie Shore, 95

WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. – Fannie M. (Meller) Shore passed away peacefully Feb. 25 at her home in West Palm Beach. She

COMMUNITY

30 | March 16, 2018

The Jewish Voice

FROM PAGE 2

THE FAMOUS WHEELER

Clothing & More

SALE

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Clothes • Sporting Goods • Housewares • Books • Toys • Boutique

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

April 12-14 THU

FRI

SAT

(10AM - 8PM) (12PM - 8PM) (10AM - 3PM) 407 BROOK ST. | PROVIDENCE, RI www.wheelerschool.org/clothingsale www.facebook.com/wheelerclothingsale Cash, Check & CC ($50 Min charge for CC) All proceeds benefit The Wheeler School & Breakthrough Providence

NEW FUND

during direct interaction between classroom teachers and their students. For this reason, this award, which recognizes precisely this endeavor, is so significant.

“Moreover, it will serve to encourage these very teachers to remain in their schools, where they will share the fruits of their professional development”

makes a commitment to return and teach at the day school after participating in the program.

When asked to comment on the award, the Kaunfers, longtime Providence residents who have retired from full-time teaching but actively serve as consultants to day schools on a local and national level, wrote, “We believe strongly that the most dramatic work in day school education takes place

development in Israel. Both Dianne and Martin said they believe the stay in Israel will allow the winning teacher to experience a different approach to teaching, as well as to become immersed in the Israeli environment and culture.

The winner will have 18 months to use the $3,000 grant, an acknowledgement that he or she must put their life on hold to go to Israel for the program they choose. The educator also

FRAN OSTENDORF (fostendorf@jewishallianceri.org) is the editor of The Jewish Voice.

The Rabbi Alvan and Giveret Marcia Kaunfer Day School Educator Award el, from early childhood to high school. Teachers of secular subjects are eligible as is anyone who teaches at least half-time.

Nominations are now being accepted for the inaugural award season. Please contact Lawrence Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org or 401-4214111 for a nomination form or more information.

Nominations are due March 27, 2018.

the nomination form available from the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. Parents, faculty members, board members, benefactors and alumni can nominate an educator and educators may nominate themselves. There is no limit to the number of candidates affiliated with any single school.

The candidates may be teachers at any Jewish day school in Rhode Island, of any grade lev-

Teachers in area Jewish day schools have a new potential benefit to help enrich their educational skills.

An award that provides $3,000 toward a professional development program in Israel to an outstanding day school educator has been established by Dianne and Martin Newman named in honor of of Rabbi Alvan and Giveret Marcia Kaunfer. This award will be given every other year. In order to enrich his/her students’ educational experience, candidates must be teaching in Jewish day schools in Rhode Island and committed to remaining in these schools following the professional development program.

Anyone associated with a Jewish day school located in Rhode Island may nominate a candidate for the award using

Einstein’s violin sells for over $500,000

JTA – The quirky Jewish physicist would have been proud.

A violin once owned by Albert Einstein recently sold for $516,500 at the New York-based Bonhams auction house.

The instrument, which reportedly was gifted to the scientist in 1933 by Oscar Steger, a member of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra, went for over three times its estimated price. Steger made the

violin himself and inscribed it with the words “Made for the Worlds[sic] Greatest Scientist Profesior[sic] Albert Einstein

By Oscar H. Steger, Feb 1933 / Harrisburg, PA.” Later, while working at Princeton University, Einstein gave the instrument to the son of Sylas Hibbs, who worked as a janitor at the school. It had remained in Hibbs’ family ever since.

Congregation

Or Chadash Best Wishes For a

Happy Passover

139 Ocean Avenue Cranston www.orchadash-­‐ri.org

SENIORS

jvhri.org

March 16, 2018 |

31

The blessings of ordinary things SKETCHBOOK MIKE FINK Somehow a Florida golf ball found its way into my minimal luggage. I took it out on a whim and briefly bounced it among my receipts on my accountant’s table as I reviewed the events of the previous year.

A golf ball rises with zest.

The harder you hit it down, the higher and quicker it goes up. How about me? I had some health issues during this winter and I file this report about the fall, and then the spring, of my body and soul.

“How can I write about it?” I asked my son Reuben.

“Just wait until you find the humor in it, when you can look backward and see the story and tell it,” he counseled wisely and kindly.

First came the ambulance and the fire engine. The journey wasn’t far: We live right ‘round the corner from The Miriam Hospital.

Then came those toothpicks with tiny sponges resting on ice chips to moisten your dry lips ... instead of water (water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink). Then they roll you to Mars, or maybe the moon, in what seems to be a space capsule, to photograph your innards. They study your organs as best they can.

Then comes the expert surgeon, and I open my eyes to greet my wife and my son, who are awaiting word.

I couldn’t sleep with all those tubes and wires, so we hired a couple of Liberian immigrant ladies to keep me company ... and read me psalms and proverbs to get me through the wee hours.

When the morning finally came, who was gazing at me as though this were all a dream?

“Joe,” the captain of the building and grounds (who raised birds in his basement and has brought them to my class on a number of occasions). He was sitting directly across from me, with a big, affectionate smile and a genuine blessing.

And who else had found out that I wasn’t at my office as usual for the first coffee of the college day? Liza, the daughter of an alum of long ago, with a bouquet of flowers and, again, a big, wide, gorgeous smile.

And how about “Polly,” who works in the textile department at Rhode Island School of Design, carrying two big bags of both silly and also useful things ... socks, crayons and pencils, pads and get-well cards.

These unexpected guests cheered me up, but I did not keep detailed tabs in my wee engagement calendar: Everything was too much of an effort. I depended on my memory to keep the record of each hour of every day.

Well, I made it home at last, but I had lost my appetite and some weight, and it took a while to retrieve the blessings of hunger and thirst, which are somehow signs of hope.

Remember how in prayers we thank heaven for the most ordinary things, which we too often take for granted?

As the various intrusive

straws were finally removed, and the tape peeled off, I felt free as a bird that takes off from its cage and heads high for the skies of freedom and liberty!

Stefano came to my house to trim my beard, and a week or so later I actually drove myself to his salon for him to shape my coiffure, or what’s left of it.

I have watched my hair turn from red to brown to gray and white, and it all looks good to me. My barber and I are buddies!

I never stopped my classes or canceled anything except social invitations, and that really hurt! I missed Cor and Kathryn’s New Year’s celebration, Mel and Pat’s Hanukkah, Amy’s block party, RISD’s end-of-semester gathering at Woods-Gerry art gallery … not necessarily in that order. But I got heaps and piles of very complimentary and kind messages, cards and e-mails, from alums both recent and from decades long ago but not forgotten, for each of which I feel both gratitude and guilt. I don’t really

think I deserve and merit their extravagant praise. But their words were healing and made me oddly content, even happy.

So, how about the humor my Reuben assigned me to dig out of my ordeal as I contemplate this past winter of my discontent? I find a bit of it in reporting the return of my bodily functions.

I am proud of following the counsel of the visiting nurses, guys and gals who knock on the front door, poke and prod me, and boss me around: Ian says, “Drink water!” So I do.

“Eat!” says Jackie. I follow her instructions. Isn’t that funny?

It’s what my mother used to say: “Talk less, eat more.” It’s also what my wife tells me.

Once you are back in the saddle, you ride off into the future more or less restored and recuperated, but still hoping

you find some buried treasure within the tale to be told. I guess it’s just “l’chaim” – life!

My visiting nurses warn me against indulging in a glass of wine or a cup of coffee. “They don’t hydrate, they dry you out.” Or words to that effect.

I don’t totally observe those rules as I return, baby-step by baby-step, into my life among the forthcoming flowers that are beginning to poke up hopefully and merrily among the fallen leaves cluttering the front yard.

All the seasons of the year, of life, breath, pulse, a laugh, a tear, a sigh, a thought, a worry, a hope, a memory, a line from poetry or song, make a form of benediction.

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

Lynch & Pine

At t o r n e ys at L aw

Lynch & Pine Lynch A t t o r n e y& s aPine t L aw Patrick C. Lynch

Attorney General: 2003-2011

Jeffrey B. Pine

Attorney General: 1993-1999

One Park Row, Fifth Floor Providence, RI 02903 P: 401.274.3306 | F: 401.274.3326 PLynch@lynchpine.com | JPine@lynchpine.com

Criminal Defense • Personal Injury/Serious Accidents • Civil and Business Litigation Divorce/Family Law • Government Investigations • Government Relations

At t o r n e ys at L aw

Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s

Classic

33rd Annual Dwares JCC

GOLF

Monday, June 11, 2018 Warwick Country Club 394 Narragansett Bay Avenue, Warwick

Visit jewishallianceri.org/golf-classic to learn more about the event and available sponsorship opportunities.

Dwares Rhode Island

401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | 401.421.4111 | jewishallianceri.org

BOOK REVIEW

32 | March 16, 2018

The Jewish Voice

Book Review: “In the Shadow of Moses”

BY SHAI AFSAI Williams F.S. Miles’ most recent book, “In the Shadow of Moses: New Jewish Movements in Africa and the Diaspora,” examines Judaism in Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Ghana, Israel and Uganda, and asks what the role of black Africans is in the redefinition of Judaism and Jewish identity in the 21st century.

Miles, a member of Providence’s Temple Emanu-El and a political science professor at Northeastern University, is the author of two previous books on African-Jewish connections: “Jews of Nigeria: An Afro-Judaic Odyssey” (Markus Wiener, 2013) and “Afro-Judaic Encounters: From Timbuktu to the Indian Ocean and Beyond” (Markus Wiener, 2014).

“In the Shadow of Moses”

(Tsehai Publishers, 2016), which Miles co-edited with Daniel Lis and Tudor Parfitt, presents the research of 12 scholars, including Miles. In the opening chapter, “African Judaism and New Religious Movements: Repainting the ‘White House’ of Judaism,” Miles frames contemporary African and black communities that practice Judaism as New Jewish Movements, and situates what he terms the “extraordinary flourishing of African and African Diaspora Judaism” within the established literature on faiths that have more recently arisen.

By focusing on populations in Nigeria (specifically the Igbo) and Madagascar that claim Israelite ancestry through Lost Tribe descent, Miles illustrates how New Jewish Movements often involve a transition from

mainstream Christian denominations (such as Protestantism or Catholicism) to “Messianic Judaism” (a Jesus-centric faith, involving the adoption of Jewish rituals, observances and holidays, that Jews would recognize as Christianity), and finally to normative Judaism.

He also points to the centrality of Israel for emerging African Jewish communities, whose members are generally decidedly inspired by and unambiguously supportive of the Jewish state.

The number of Igbo who have embraced normative Judaism – and here, as in his previous writings, Miles labels these Jewishly-identified Igbo “Jubos” – is now in the thousands, and there are dozens of synagogues in Nigeria. In comparison, Jewish practice in Mada-

Where RI seniors come first Saint Elizabeth Home

Saint Elizabeth Court

at Saint Elizabeth Home

Cornerstone Adult Services

Short-term rehab, long-term care and memory care THE GREEN HOUSE ® Homes

A new concept in nursing home care East Greenwich: 471-6060

Saint Elizabeth Manor Short-term rehab, long-term care and memory care Bristol: 253-2300

Affordable assisted living Providence: 490-4646

Saint Elizabeth Terrace

Adult day health centers Warwick, Bristol, Coventry and Little Compton: 739-2844

Affordable apartments for seniors Warwick: 739-7700

Cathleen Naughton Associates

Saint Elizabeth Place Affordable apartments for seniors and mobility impaired Providence: 273-1090

Home health services Warwick: 773-7401 Wakefield: 783-6116

www.stelizabethcommunity.org % 'EVI0MRO 4EVXRIV ERH RSR TVS½X RSRWIGXEVMER G GLEVMXEFPI SVKERM^EXMSR

BIG MISSION FOR A REALLY BIG BIRTHDAY A REALLY

RHODE ISLAND GOES TO ISRAEL

OCTOBER 15 - 23, 2018

70 ISRAEL AT

Experience the history, art, culture, and flavor of the country with your family, friends, and other Rhode Islanders.

Learn more at jewishallianceri.org/mission 401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | 401.421.4111

gascar is quite contained. Miles does not provide figures for Judaism in Madagascar in this volume, but in a 2017 article on Malagasy Judaism in the journal “Anthropology Today,” he wrote of “a total population of only a couple of hundred Malagasy practicing normative Judaism.”

Now numbering about 140,000 in Israel, Ethiopian Jews are by far the largest of any Jewish community connected to subSaharan Africa. Israeli scholars Steven Kaplan and Hagar Salamon speculated in a 1998 paper for the Institute for Jewish Policy Research that Ethiopian Jews “may be per capita the most talked about and written about group in the world.”

This is likely still the case some 20 years later.

In Chapter 10, “Building Bridges: Ethiopian Israelis Take a Second Look at Ethiopia,” Len Lyons, an independent scholar from Newton, Massachusetts, investigates “where Ethiopian Israelis themselves, both past and present, believe their home to be.” Even in Ethiopia, the Beta Israel community saw distant Jerusalem as its home.

However, though the state of Israel has quite possibly “done more to support the Ethiopian community than any country has ever done for an immigrant group,” Ethiopian Jews, many of whom have adopted a black racial identity along with their Jewish one, have come “to the conclusion that they are second-class citizens” in Israel.

Lyons predicts that their Israeli integration will take a long time. Nonetheless, though they may not yet feel “at home” in Israel, “most Ethiopian Israelis profess strongly the idea that Israel is their home.”

The Abayudaya of Uganda form another fairly well-known African Jewish community. Isabella Soi’s “Judaism in Uganda: A Tale of Two Communities” discusses the Abayudaya community’s rise, difficulties and more recent renaissance.

She recounts the Baganda leader Semei Kakungulu’s religious shift from Christianity toward biblical Judaism, and eventually rabbinic Judaism, in the late 1910s and 1920s, as well as the subsequent travails the relatively isolated community experienced under the dictatorship of Idi Amin, whose anti-Semitic policies reduced its numbers to some 300 members.

The now-revitalized Abayudaya, though not recognized as Jewish by Israel, have many international Jewish links, which have aided them in developing religious, educational and economic infrastructure in Uganda. These international links have also led the community to split into two groups, with the larger one embracing Conservative Judaism, and its members undergoing Conservative conversion, and the smaller one seeking Orthodox affiliation.

While Miles’ “Jews of Nigeria” and “Afro-Judaic Encounters” were written to appeal to casual readers and scholars, the various articles in “In the Shadow of Moses” are clearly geared more toward students and specialists on Africa. Nonetheless, this is an informative volume with chapters of interest to anyone seeking material on Jewish identity among black Africans.

SHAI AFSAI lives in Providence. His article “The Sigd: From Ethiopia to Israel” appeared in the fall 2014 issue of the Reform Jewish Quarterly.

jvhri.org

COMMUNITY

March 16, 2018 |

An evening with Mathieu Schneider

Sara DeCosta-Hayes

RI Hockey Hall of Fame includes Jewish standouts The Rhode Island Hockey Hall of Fame announced the names of 16 Rhode Island hockey greats, including Jewish standouts Mathieu Schneider and Sara DeCosta-Hayes, who will be enshrined in its charter class on Sept. 20 during a celebration and dinner at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln.

The names and official portraits of the inductees were unveiled on March 4 between periods of the AHL game between the P-Bruins and Springfield at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in downtown Providence.

Typically, Hall of Fame classes are highlighted by a select few who stand out. However, as RI Hockey Hall of Fame Chairman Vincent Cimini pointed out, “Each deserves the spotlight. This is the ‘Mount Rushmore’ of Rhode Island hockey.

“Our charter class is comprised of 11 who have represented the USA in World Championships, including eight in the Olympics,” he proudly noted. “Ten have previously been enshrined in the International, USA and AHL Hockey Halls of Fame. Three have their names engraved on the NHL’s Stanley Cup and many have set records that still stand in the sport. Most of all, as players and as pillars of the game, they each represent the very best of our state’s rich and illustrious hockey heritage.”

Charter inductees include: Sara DeCosta-Hayes - Named a genuine contemporary Jewish heroine by Brandeis Uni-

versity in 2009, DeCosta-Hayes was a Rhode Island All-State goaltender at Toll Gate High School and the first girl to play in Rhode Island’s championship division. She was a two-time USA Hockey Women’s Player of the Year at Providence College and a two-time USA Olympian, capturing gold in the 1998 Winter Games in Nagano, Japan, and silver in 2002 in Salt Lake City.

Mathieu Schneider – Inducted into the International Jewish Athletic Hall of Fame in 2014 and the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015, Schneider led Mount St. Charles Academy to three Rhode Island state and two national titles before embarking on a 21-year NHL career. Twotime NHL All-Star, played on the Montreal Canadiens’ 1993 Stanley Cup-winning team and helped Team USA capture the inaugural World Cup of Hockey three years later. He is the Rhode Island leader in almost all NHL statistical categories.

Other charter class inductees, in alphabetical order, are: Bill Belisle, Curt Bennett, Harvey Bennett, Sr., Bryan Berard, Keith Carney, Joe Cavanagh, Cammi Granato, Lou Lamoriello, Brian Lawton, Louis A.R. Pieri, Dick Rondeau, Chris Terreri, Zellio Toppazzini, and Ron Wilson. Complete bios on all inductees are posted on the RI Hockey Hall of Fame’s website: RIHHOF.com.

CHEF MICHAEL SOLOMONOV

2017 James Beard Award: Outstanding Chef 2016 James Beard Award: International Cooking & Book of the Year 2011 James Beard Award: Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic

Wednesday, May 2, 2018 | 7:00pm Dwares JCC | 401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence For more information visit jewishallianceri.org/michael-solomonov 401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | 401.421.4111 | jewishallianceri.org

Submitted by the RI Hockey Hall of Fame

CIPCO CLEANING SERVICE

• • • •

Prompt, Friendly Service!

Heavy Cleaning Contractor • Carpets | Upholstery | Drapes House Programs • Odor Removal Office Cleaning • Environmentally Safe | HEPA Post Construction Emergency Cleaning • Seasonal | Estate

www.cipcocleaningservice.com MARK CIPRIANO

(401) 726-6702

Bonded & Insured

.org

Visit us online: JVHRI

33

34 | March 16, 2018

COMMUNITY

The Jewish Voice

Beth-El’s annual film fest features healing power of music

Summer J-Camp

Dwares Rhode Island

BY FRAN OSTENDORF

June 25 - August 24

WHAT MAKES J-CAMP DIFFERENT? • • • •

Lunch and snacks provided daily Coordinated Judaic themes that focus on universal human values Swim lessons for all campers Weekly field trips & special visitors

ALL ARE WELC0ME!

Learn more at jewishallianceri.org/summer-j-camp

401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | 401.421.4111

The Joanne Forman Film Festival presents three Sundays of films each year, with moderated discussions and refreshments at Temple Beth-El in Providence. This year’s theme is “The Healing Power of Music.”

March 25 kicks off the festival with the 2016 documentary, “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now.” After learning he is HIV positive, Saar, an ex-Israeli paratrooper and member of the London Gay Men’s Chorus, attempts to reconcile with his religious family in Israel. Tonya Glantz, director of the Institute for Education and Non-Violence, leads the discussion after the film.

April 8 features “The Band’s Visit” a 2007 drama about a band of eight members of the Egyptian police force that travels to Israel to play at a concert and finds itself lost in the wrong Israeli town. The movie is now a Broadway play.

The post-film discussion is led by educator Paula DavidsonBodo.

April 15 features “East Jerusalem/West Jerusalem” a

2014 documentary that follows Israeli singer-songwriter David Broza as he records an album in East Jerusalem with American, Palestinian and Israeli musicians and attempts to open a dialogue about the Middle East conflict. The discussion after the film is led

by Mike Fink, professor at the Rhode Island School of Design.

Sponsored by the Sisterhood of Temple Beth-El, the film festival has taken place for 17 years and was originally co-chaired by Joanne Forman. Several years ago, it was named in her memory, according to current chair Ellen Silverman.

“Joanne was a generous, giving volunteer,” Silverman said in a 2016 interview. “Everyone loved her.” And, Silverman said, she cared deeply about the temple.

All films screen at 2 p.m. in the Meeting Hall of the temple, 70 Orchard Ave., Providence.

Admission is free and refreshments are included.

FRAN OSTENDORF (fostendorf@jewishallianceri.org) is the editor of The Jewish Voice.

ESTABLISH YOUR LEGACY TODAY.

Invest in our Jewish community tomorrow.

Creating your legacy shows the ones you love most just how important they are to you because you are committing to their future. A legacy gift—such as an endowment—promises that your generosity and vision will have an impact far beyond your lifetime.

With a Jewish Federation Foundation legacy, you guarantee that the most vulnerable among us know they are not alone. You support community programs and services that welcome everyone.

You show your children and grandchildren how precious they are to you.

Through your Jewish Federation Foundation legacy, you have the power to ensure Jewish families will not just survive—they will thrive.

And that is timeless.

Your investments should grow with you—and for you.

For more information on ways to leave your Jewish legacy, please contact Trine Lustig, Vice President of Philanthropy, at tlustig@jewishallianceri.org or 401.421.4111 ext. 223.

Let’s grow together.

COMMUNITY

jvhri.org

March 16, 2018 |

35

Childhood memories sewn together As a small child, I remember being put down for an afternoon nap. The whir of my mother’s portable Singer sewing machine on the kitchen table lulled me to sleep.

I also remember going to fabric stores and MAY-RONNY following her ZEIDMAN as she choose remnants to make this or that. She would hold the fabric up and say, “I can make a skirt from this or a dress or whatever.”

I was fairly young when I realized she was saving money by making our clothes.

As a second grader, I wore a purple wool coat with a cape that my mother had made. I loved that coat and still remember how good wearing it made me feel. I have always regretted that I never thought to tell my mother how much I loved that coat.

As an adult, I had a friend who had taken up sewing. She was very proud to show me her work space. I could not help but notice that the fabrics she was

working with were very expensive. When I said to her, ”This is expensive fabric.” She said to me, “Sewing is my hobby. I do not need to make my clothes.

Why would I use inexpensive fabric.”

The concept of sewing as a hobby was alien to me. Sometime later, I was making a sweater for myself. When my mom saw the yarn, she told me how beautiful it was. How much did each skein cost, she asked.

She was horrified when I responded. I quickly told her that this was my hobby. I did not need this sweater for warmth.

As I have written before, my mother made sweaters for my children each fall. When my brother and his wife had their daughter Kayla, my mother was already quite ill. At Kayla’s first birthday party, my dad walked in carrying a very large box.

When it was opened, there were several sweaters in different sizes for Kayla. The yarns that were used were just beautiful.

I was so happy that my mother had reached a point where she saw knitting as a hobby.

MAY-RONNY ZEIDMAN is the executive director of the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center.

Highlights of what we offer: • Functional-Style Classes including TRX, Kettlebells, Battle Ropes & Medicine Balls • Lenny Krayzelburg Swim Academy • Certified Personal Trainers • Indoor Heated Pool • Group Ex • Indoor Cycling • Basketball Gymnasium • Sports Leagues • Pilates Mat Classes • Cardio Machines • Free-weight Area • Teen Fitness Certification • Fit Forever Classes for Seniors • TigerSharks Swim Club and much more!

EAST SIDE | BLACKSTONE BOULEVARD

WISHING YOU A JOYOUS PASSOVER!

Wingate Healthcare offers traditional assisted living, memory care and respite care in beautifully-designed communities. Our residents are encouraged to maintain their independence with the knowledge that we are here to support them if their needs change.

Wingate Residences on the East Side One Butler Avenue, Providence, RI 401-275-0682

Wingate Residences on Blackstone Boulevard 353 Blackstone Blvd, Providence, RI 401-273-6565

— Family-Owned and Operated for Three Decades — Call to request our event schedule. | WingateHealthcare.com

J-FITNESS

at the Dwares JCC

To learn more about Personal Training, Specialty Group Training or any of our fitness programs, contact Dori Venditti at 401.421.4111 ext. 210 or dvenditti@jewishallianceri.org.

401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI | jewishallianceri.org

36 | March 16, 2018

The Jewish Voice

Jewish Alliance 2018 Annual Campaign: Donate. Volunteer. Make a difference.

How does faith fit into my life? What does being Jewish mean?

There are thousands of young people asking important questions—and every one counts. Through Jewish day schools and camps, Birthright and gap-year trips to Israel, and PJ Library books, the next generation is connecting with their history and with one another. As young people awaken to the power and promise of their Jewish identity, our legacy is strengthened—and our world becomes kinder and more compassionate.

The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island is dedicated to building a stronger and more inclusive community here at home, in Israel and around the world. We are fueled by Jewish values and driven by tradition—reimagined for today’s world. Together, with your support, we are committed to strengthening lives and communities everywhere.

everyONE counts

jewishallianceri.org