June 2022 by Jewish Rhode Island

The Voice of Greater Rhode Island’s Jewish Community

JUNE 2022 | SIVAN 5782

JEWISHRHODY.ORG

Ready for a little nosh? Check out what’s cooking! Lisa bakes cheesecake for Shavuot

Harris Chorney to chair Alliance board

Tiferet Israel celebrates centennial

2 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

PRESENTED BY:

Now through June 30

Support the local food economy and try some of the most

delicious Kosher food in the area. Order your Top Nosh Food Pass today, and start taking advantage of these great discounts and special oﬀers! Then vote for your favorites online and the winners will be featured throughout the Jewish community.

jewishallianceri.org/top-nosh/

JUNE 2022 | 3

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JEWISH RHODE ISL AND

EDITOR Fran Ostendorf DESIGN & LAYOUT Alex Foster ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Peter Zeldin pzeldin@jewishallianceri.org 401-421-4111, ext. 160 CONTRIBUTORS Cynthia Benjamin, Larry Kessler, Robert Isenberg, Emma Newbery, Sarah Greenleaf COLUMNISTS Michael Fink, Patricia Raskin, Rabbi James Rosenberg, Daniel Stieglitz

VOLUME XXIX, ISSUE VII JEWISH RHODE ISLAND

(ISSN number 1539-2104, USPS #465-710) is published monthly except twice in May, August and September. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID at Providence, R.I. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Jewish Rhode Island, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906. PUBLISHER

The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, President/CEO Adam Greenman, Chair James Pious, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906. 401-421-4111; Fax 401-331-7961 MEMBER of the

Rhode Island Press Association.

It’s time for action LIKE EVERYONE ELSE I know, I was totally horrified by the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. And the one barely two weeks earlier, at a Tops grocery store in Buffalo, New York. And the shooting in the New York City subway in April. And the shooting at a high school in Oxford, Michigan, in November 2021 And the shooting at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis in April 2021. And the shooting at an office building in Los Angeles in March 2021. And shootings in Boulder, Colorado, and Atlanta, also in March 2021. The list goes on and on. All of these incidents involved multiple deaths, many including children. How can we not be horrified and outraged by all this violence? How can we continue to see the suffering without becoming numb to it? How can we continue to take so little action when so many children are involved? Children gunned down at Columbine High School in Colorado. At Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. At Parkland High School in Florida. And now at Robb Elementary in Uvalde. It is high time to discuss what can be done to control gun violence in our country. This should not be a political issue. This is a responsibility issue. This is a do-the-right-thing issue. And part of that responsibility should lie with the news media, to keep gun-violence issues alive and to hold our leaders accountable to protect all of us while they argue over Second Amendment rights. I wrote about gun violence in 2016 after the mass shooting at a nightclub in Orlando, Florida. In that column, I referred to a column written by former editor Nancy Kirsch in 2012, after the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary, in Newtown, Connecticut. Kirsch’s message remains the same and is worth rereading. Fran Ostendorf, editor

This ends now … or does it? BY NANCY KIRSCH Reprinted from The Jewish Voice, Dec. 21, 2012.

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 advertisers’ claims.

ON THE COVER: PHOTO | LISA MAYBRUCH

Tasty mandelbrot was the subject of Baking with Lisa in February.

AS I WRITE this, on Dec. 14, the day of the horrific massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., I heard Jay Carney, President Obama’s press person, say, “I don’t think today is the day” to talk about gun control policies. I got angry. It was the perfect time to address gun control, to address a better system to identify, evaluate and treat emotionally ill individuals who are predisposed to violence, and to address our nation’s fascination with

guns, violence and its “shoot ’em up” mentality. Since the horrific school massacre, pundits have overtaken the news media with ideas about how to prevent another mass shooting. I’m politically savvy enough to appreciate that many politicians are “in bed” with all-too-powerful entities like the National Rifle Association, whose PAC monies help elect said politicians. I’m not wise enough to propose a realistic fix for that incestuous relationship – public financing, perhaps? Individuals committing massacres in the United States are male, most in their late teens or early 20s, and generally loners. I’m not wise enough to identify any other commonalities; perhaps we should evaluate how effectively we identify and treat emotionally damaged individuals prone to violence. Perhaps we should admit that, absent answers, the United States should consult with experts in highly industrialized countries where mass shootings occur far more rarely. Perhaps the number of “copycat” attacks might decline with a media ban on releasing shooters’ names. Many of these young men – completely isolated and alone – may opt for their “15 minutes of fame” through posthumous infamy. Yes, it’s a First Amendment issue, but other First Amendment limitations have been upheld as constitutional. The release of names via social media is virtually instantaneous – and often incorrect! Murders of prominent people – JFK, RFK, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X – peppered my youthful years. While each was shocking and traumatic, today’s children are growing up in an era when horrific killings are much too commonplace. If they’re “lucky,” they see the unspeakable carnage only on their iPhones, iPads, TVs or in print – the “unlucky ones,” of course, are those who know, or are, victims of a shooting! Remember these mass murders? Seattle (March 2006, seven dead); Lancaster, Pa. (October 2006, five Amish children dead); Binghamton, N.Y. (April 2009, 14 dead) … and many more, including the January 2011 murder of six people and wounding of 13 others, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, in Tucson, Ariz. It’s horrific to think how many such shootings we’ve experienced since last January. According to thinkprogress.org/justice, the rate of people killed by guns in the United States is 19.5 times higher than in similarly high-income countries. I’m politically savvy enough to recognize that our elected officials might, just might, declare, “This ends here, this ends now,” but unless they actually do something to address the root causes of this national scourge, I know that we’ll see more lost lives, more grieving families and more pontificating pundits. President Obama got it half-right: This is not the time for talk about gun control; this is the time to take action. No wonder I’m angry. NANCY KIRSCH, of Providence, is now a freelance writer. Contact her at writernancy@gmail.com

THE MISSION OF JEWISH RHODE ISLAND is to communicate Jewish news, ideas and ideals by connecting and giving voice to the diverse views of the Jewish community in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, while adhering to Jewish values and the professional standards of journalism. ALL SUBMITTED CONTENT becomes the property of Jewish Rhode Island. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of Jewish Rhode Island or its publisher, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. We reserve the right to refuse publication and edit submitted content.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

UP FRONT

Karen Krinsky

PHOTO | ROBERT ISENBERG

Making vegan ice cream Like No Udder BY ROBERT ISENBERG

or 1,500 miles, Karen Krinsky drove her new truck up the interstate, wondering what she had gotten herself into. She had never run a

food truck before. She’d never made ice cream, much less vegan ice cream. All Krinsky knew on that fateful day in 2010 was that she had just purchased a sizable used vehicle, and now she had to drive it from Fountain Beach, Florida, to Providence, Rhode Island. “AS I’M DRIVING it, I’m just thinking, ‘Oh, my gosh, I cannot believe I’m doing this,’ ” Krinsky recalled in a recent interview. But Krinsky, now 46, had a vision. This vision would eventually become Like No

Udder, a vegan creamery in the Fox Point neighborhood of Providence. Krinsky grew up on Long Island, in New York, and has fond memories of getting ice cream from Carvel, a popular chain, with her

late father. Taking cues from her older brother, Krinsky had become a vegetarian at age 10 and a vegan after high school, so the idea of a plant-based business excited her. At first, Krinsky said she had imagined a vegetarian hot dog cart, but she opted for animal-free ice cream instead. “I researched for three years before I bought the truck,” she said. “It just seemed like it could be really fun.” Krinsky named the truck Betsy Loo, and began operations with her husband, Chris Belanger. This was not the first joint venture for the couple, who have been together since 1999; they had previously col-

laborated on a wholesale baking business called The Screaming Vegan. Now, they felt ready for a new challenge. Betsy Loo would be known thereafter as the first vegan soft-serve ice cream truck in the world. But there were major hurdles. At the time, food trucks were a new concept in Providence, and many potential customers balked at the idea of non-dairy ice cream. “Running a truck can be so fun and so rewarding, but trucks break, and it rains, or events can get canceled,” Krinsky said. “There are many obstacles, so you have to be full-in to do it, and I’m so grateful I had support.

“I’m not going to lie, I cried a lot. My truck was towed many times. But the reward of working veg fests, birthday parties, weddings, street festivals, and being part of the community – that’s just who I am. I like to serve people.” The years passed, and Krinsky and Belanger persevered. Like No Udder became a flagship of the burgeoning food-truck scene, and plant-based businesses popped up across the city, normalizing their cruelty-free mission. Then, in 2016, the pair opened a brick-and-mortar ice cream store on busy Ives Street. No longer confined to a vehicular workspace, Krinsky could expand her CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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Act now to make this world a better place

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

cashews and full-fat coconut milk, and I blend them and let them chill. I try to use local ingredients wherever I can. “I’m fortunate that I can produce almost five gallons at a time. But to make a batch of ice cream takes approximately an hour and a half per flavor, so I can’t do more than six to eight flavors in a day.” Krinsky takes pride in her vegan recipes, but some customers miss the memo and assume they’re eating traditional ice cream. Most people, she says, can’t tell the difference. And while vegan ice cream can’t be considered a “health product,” Krinsky feels there are many benefits from her sweet concoctions. “The benefit is you’re not getting cholesterol, hormones, and there’s no suffering for these animals,” she said. She adds, “Vegan products have come so far. I remember in my early days of veganism, there was tofu ice cream. It was not good. The vegan cheeses were rubbery and terrible. Now you can go into any grocery store

of Torah. That ticket will that we put away years ago not only provide us with a that allows us to do our part repaired pair of shoes, but it to make the world just a little will give us an opportunity better this year. Chag shavuot to do tikkun olam (“repair the sameach. world”). It’s not too late. RICHARD PERLMAN is the As we celebrate another senior rabbi of Temple beautiful festival, the festival Ner Tamid, in Peabody, of Shavuot 5782, let us accept our responsibility, the respon- Massachusetts. sibility given to us when we received the gift of Torah to make this world as good Candle lighting times as God wanted this June 2022 world to be. As we celebrate the gift of Torah, as we celebrate Shavuot, let us remember, “If It Is to Be, It’s Up to Me!” Yes, we all share a very important part in creation, and we must act now and do our share today, not next week, not tomorrow, to make this world a better June 3 7:55 pm place ve-al kol yoshvei teiveil (“for all who June 4 9:07 pm Erev Shavuot live on earth”). As we enjoy the June 5 9:08 pm Shavuot sweet and wonderful cheese blintzes, the June 10 7:59 pm delicious cheesecake and the sweet June 17 8:02 pm ice-cream sundae on Shavuot, let us make June 24 8:04 pm up our minds to find our ticket, the one

and buy a quality vegan product.” Krinsky is low-key about her Jewish heritage, but hints of Judaism at her shop are visible here and there – such as in the challah and knishes she bakes each Friday and a “Mitzvah board” that invites visitors to pre-purchase items for future customers. Krinsky’s great-grandparents were tailors in New York City, and her grandmother’s stories about their shop continue to inspire her. “I think being Jewish, and being close to my family, and learning about how they just worked hard to get where they were and live a comfortable life has always stuck with me,” Krinsky says. “I’ve always felt compelled to work hard, serve others, and this business allows me to do that. I’m so grateful that I love it and I get to make people happy. ” ROBERT ISENBERG (risenberg@ jewishallianceri.org) is the multimedia producer for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and a writer for Jewish Rhode Island.

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operations. “We offer so much more here than we did on the truck,” she says. “We make our own hard ice cream here. We have soft serve and floats and shakes and sundaes, and we even make things like knishes and challah.” (Meanwhile, Betsy Loo is “hibernating” at the moment, according to Like No Udder’s website, https://like-noudder.com.) Today, Krinsky has flowing silver hair, fashionable glasses and a joyful laugh. She describes herself as “kind of a hippie,” and her store is crowded with cat pictures and toy unicorns. But despite her free-spirited demeanor, Krinsky mixes flavors into plant-based milks and loads her 24-quart ice cream machine with the precise efficiency of an assembly-line riveter. “We just replace the dairy with other proteins, other fats,” she explains. “I take raw ingredients, like

to the squeaky wheel? Between Pesach and Shavuot, we have an opportunity to think. We are given an opportunity to think about the freedom that God gave us as a people and as individuals during Pesach. We have time to weigh our lives against our responsibility to ourselves, to others and to our world. Our God challenged us with an amazing opportunity to be the best of the best when we received the gift of Torah on Mount Sinai, which we recall each year during Shavuot. We must ask ourselves: will we manage our lives by virtue of what happens to us, or will we proactively navigate our lives on the path given to us by our loving God? We all know that we are supposed to be an or la’goyim (“a light for all nations”). Have we placed the ticket of responsibility in our pocket and put off that obligation to act together as a people united to protect God’s world? Have we decided to put off our responsibility to protect each other or care for one another as the giving, caring and loving people that Torah teaches us to be? It is time for us to stop, look around and find the ticket that we received when we all were handed the great gift

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D’ V

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through some boxes. “Hey,” he called out. “They’re still here!” “I can’t believe it! That’s incredible!” Moish responded, with obvious delight. The shoe repairman returned to the counter holding a pair of very dusty shoes. “Yep, still got ’em. They’ll be ready for you next Thursday.” While this may be an “old” story, it represents the reality of how we live our lives. There is no doubt that we are RABBI RICHARD all guilty PERLMAN of putting things off from time to time. And the reality is that much of the time we never have to deal with those things, because they simply go away. But sometimes, when we least expect it, and usually at the most inconvenient time, we are all faced with the results of our procrastination. How do we know what is important? How do we prioritize our lives? Is it by weighing what is right versus wrong, morals and ethics versus fun and convenience? Or do we live our lives reacting

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MOISH AND SARA were clearing the old clothes from their closets. “Hey, look what I found in the pocket of one of your suits!” Sara called out, holding a claim ticket in her hand. “What is that?” asked Moish. “Apparently, you left some shoes for repair at the shop around the corner … 10 years ago.” “You don’t say,” said Moish as he looked over the ticket. “I often wondered what happened to those shoes. Do you think they’re still there?” “I doubt it,” Sara said. “I’ve got nothing to lose at this point. I’ll just ask about them,” Moish said. So Moish walked around the corner and into the shop, wearing his best poker face. He placed the ticket on the counter and said, “I’m here to pick up some shoes.” “Oh my, these have been here for some time,” the shoe repairman said after checking the ticket. “I hope we still have them!” He walked into a back room and began rummaging

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS FOR COMPLETE MONTHLY LISTINGS, VISIT JEWISHRHODY.ORG

Ongoing

Kosher Senior Café and Programming. In-person lunches 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday – Thursday at the Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence; Friday at Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Closed Shavuot, 6/6. In-person and Zoom programming includes “Exercise for Everyone” with exercise science professional Laura Goodwin on Monday and Wednesday from 11-11:45 a.m. and chair yoga on Tuesday and Thursday from 11:30 a.m.-noon followed by lunch and a guest speaker or discussion from noon-1 p.m. The second Tuesday of the month is “Susie’s Corner” with Susie Adler from noon-1 p.m. The third Thursday of the month is a book chat with Neal Drobnis from noon-1 p.m. Suggested donation: $3 per lunch for those age 60 and older as well as for younger adults with a disability. Other adults may purchase a meal for $6.50. The Kosher Senior Café is a program of Jewish Collaborative Services and is generously supported by the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI and Blackstone Health. Information and RSVP, Elaine Shapiro at elaine@ jfsri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 107. Spiritual Accounting: Benjamin Franklin and Rabbi Mendel Lefin’s Course of Character Development. Sundays 10:15-11:45 a.m. (9-10:30 a.m. on 6/12) thru 6/26. No class: 6/5. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. In-depth textual study including readings and journaling at home. Taught by Rabbi Eliahu Klein. Funded by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. Information, Shai Afsai at shai. afsai@ppsd.org. Project Shoresh Ladies Partners in Torah Night. Sundays 7:45-8:45 p.m. Providence Hebrew Day School, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Partner-based study group. On-site facilitators available. Free. Information, projectshoresh. com or Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@ gmail.com or 401-632-3165. Project Shoresh: For Young Professionals – A Walk through Torah. Tuesdays 7-8 p.m. 132 Lancaster St., Providence. Explore the Five Books of Moses with Rabbi Chaim Yehuda and Mrs. Guta Shaps. RSVP (requested but not required) or information, text or call Rabbi Shaps at 732-822-0028. Temple Habonim “The Wisdom’s Literature.” Wednesdays 11 a.m.-noon. Study the texts found in the Writings, the final section of the Hebrew Bible. These provocative texts offer perspectives on our relationship with God and the meaning and purpose of our lives. Via Zoom. Information, Adina Davies

at office@templehabonim.org or 401-245-6536. Project Shoresh Men’s Partners in Torah Night. Wednesdays 7:45-8:45 p.m. Providence Hebrew Day School, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Partner-based study group. On-site facilitators available. Free. Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-6323165. Temple Habonim Lunch and Learn. Thursdays noon-1 p.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Weekly Torah discussion with Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman. No Hebrew fluency or background in Jewish textual analysis needed. Via Zoom with limited in-person gathering by reservation. Free. Information, office@templehabonim.org or 401245-6536. Project Shoresh presents “Jew in 2022: Exploring a Meaningful Life” with Rabbi Eli Kasirer. Thursdays 8-9 p.m. Providence Hebrew Day School, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum’s book “Olam Ha’avodah – A guide to understanding and achieving our purpose in this world” will be the basis for discussions. Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-632-3165. Music with Raymond Buttero via Zoom. Fridays 3-3:30 p.m. Temple Sinai’s pianist performs. Link at templesinairi.org. Information, dottie@ templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350. Temple Sinai Shabbat Evening Service. Fridays 6 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Song, prayer and reflection offered in-person or on Zoom. Surgical masks or N95/KN95 masks are required for in-person attendance. With Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser and Cantor Deborah Johnson. Zoom link at templesinairi. org. Information, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350. Project Shoresh Lively Kabbalat Shabbat. Fridays. Services will begin at the commencement of Shabbat. Be in touch for exact timing each week. Providence Hebrew Day School (side entrance), 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Welcome Shabbat with a few inspiring words, melodious songs and traditional services. Open to all. Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-632-3165. Cape Cod Synagogue Shabbat Services. Fridays 7 p.m., except second Friday of the month 6:30 p.m., when Family Shabbat Services take place. 145 Winter St., Hyannis, Mass. With Rabbi David Freelund. In-person and livestreamed on mul-

tiple platforms (website, Facebook, Cape Media, YouTube and Community Television Comcast channel 99). In-person for all ages with mask – proof of vaccination needed for those old enough to have been vaccinated. Information, 508-7752988 or capecodsynagogue.org. Temple Beth-El Torah Study. Saturdays 9-10:30 a.m. (No Torah Study second Saturday of the month.) 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Delve into the weekly portion with Rabbi Sarah Mack and Rabbi Preston Neimeiser. Join in person or via Zoom. Information, Joie Magnone at jmagnone@temple-beth-el. org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100. Temple Beth-El Shabbat Morning Service. Second Saturday of the month 9-10:30 a.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Shabbat morning minyan with lay participation incorporating study, Torah and Haftarah readings. Join in-person or via Zoom. Information, Joie Magnone at jmagnone@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100. Temple Sinai Shabbat Breakfast & Torah Study In-person and via Zoom. Saturdays 9:30-11 a.m. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Breakfast followed by interactive discussion at 10 a.m. with Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser or others in our community. Surgical masks or N95/KN95 masks are required for in-person attendance. Zoom link at templesinairi.org. Information, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401-942-8350. Cape Cod Synagogue Shabbat Services. Saturdays 10:30 a.m. 145 Winter St., Hyannis, Mass. With Rabbi David Freelund. In-person and livestreamed on multiple platforms. Services are in-person with proof of vaccination; must wear a mask. Services also available on our website, Facebook and YouTube. Information, Cape Cod Synagogue at 508-775-2988 or capecodsynagogue.org. Temple Sinai Shabbat Morning Service In-person and via Zoom. Saturdays 11 a.m. (10:30 a.m. when celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah)-noon. Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Surgical masks or N95/KN95 masks are required for in-person attendance. Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401942-8350.

Friday | June 3

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat Songs & Torah Services. Fridays 5:45-6:30 p.m. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. For information or Zoom link, Temple@ toratyisrael.org.

Temple Beth-El Annual Pride Shabbat. 7 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. With keynote speaker Janson Wu, executive director of GLAD (GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders). Congregation members will read Pride-related liturgy. Open to all. Information, Joie Magnone at jmagnone@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100.

jmagnone@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100.

Saturday | June 4

Temple Beth-El K’tantan Havdalah with PJ Library. 5-6:30 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. End Shabbat with a family-friendly service and dinner with our friends from PJ Library. Information, Rachel Mersky Woda at rmerskywoda@temple-beth-el.org or 401331-6070, ext. 107.

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual and In-Person Shabbat Services. 9:30-10:30 a.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. Information or Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Thursday | June 9

Community Voices against Hate. 5:30 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Presentation and panel discussion with community leaders from the RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias, the Center for Southeast Asians, Mount Hope Community Center, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, the Office of the Attorney General and the NAACP. Free and open to all. Pre-registration required. Information, calloutprejudiceri@gmail.com. Project Shoresh Young Professionals BBQ. 6 p.m. Lincoln Woods State Park Pavilion E, 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln. Enjoy a tasty, relaxed and fun-filled summer evening. Cost: $8 pre-event | $12 at event. Information, avigayilps@ gmail.com.

Friday | June 10

Jewish Alliance Hosts Blood Drive. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Donations by appointment. Walk-ins if availability permits at time of arrival. Eat, hydrate and bring identification. Information, Stephanie Hague at shague@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 127. Temple Torat Yisrael Special Friday Night Live Service & Dinner. 6 p.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Farewell celebration honoring Rabbi Aaron Philmus. Service followed by cocktails & hor d’oeuvres and dinner of minestrone soup, Caesar salad, apricot chicken/ vegetarian option, root veggies and dessert. Adults: $36 | Children (nugget meal): $12.95. Information and RSVP, Temple office at 401885-6600 or Temple@toratyisrael. org. Temple Beth-El Kabbalat Shabbat Services. 5:45-6:15 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Join in person, via Zoom or on Facebook Live. Information, Joie Magnone at

Saturday | June 11

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual and In-Person Shabbat Services. 9:30-10:30 a.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. Information or Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Sunday | June 12

“The Last Klezmer: Leopold Kozlowski, His Life and Music.” 2 p.m. Bristol Community College, Jackson Arts Center, Main Auditorium (H Building), 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, Mass. Documentarian and musician Yale Strom will screen his film. Followed by a klezmer musical performance and discussion. Presented by Bristol Community College Holocaust and Genocide Center in collaboration with Temple Beth El, Fall River. Israeli Culture Series presents: The Challenges of the LGBTQ+ Community in Israel. 4-5:15 p.m. Zoom presentation by Hila Pe’er on how the LGBTQ+ Israeli community has changed public opinion, its achievements, where it is headed and the role of the LGBTQ+ Association and community organizations in the struggle. Free. Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts and the Jewish Alliance. Information, Amit Oren at aoren@jewishallianceri.org.

Wednesday | June 15

Core Connects RI Book Club: “The Choice. A Novel of Love, Faith and the Talmud.” 7:30-8:30 p.m. Using her unique blend of historical fiction, Jewish history and Talmudic text, Maggie Anton provides a glimpse at American Jewish life in the 1950s. Via Zoom. Information and RSVP, coreconnectsri.com or Elissa Felder at CoreConnectsRI@gmail. com or 401-241-9631.

Thursday | June 16

Temple Beth-El Lunch & Learn: “Inspiring Texts: Rabbinic Text Study.” Noon-1 p.m. Explore via Zoom texts that continue to inform our Jewish lives. Taught by Rabbi Sarah Mack and Rabbi Preston Neimeiser. Free. Register and information, link on calendar at temple-beth-el.org or Temple Beth-El office at 401-331-6070.

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

CALENDAR Jewish Alliance’s Eleventh Annual Meeting. 7 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Installation of Harris Chorney, Incoming Chair of the Board. Tribute to James Pious, Outgoing Chair of the Board. Presentation of Leadership Awards. Board Installations: Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Jewish Federation Foundation, Alliance Realty, Inc. Reception to follow. Information, Gail Putnam at gputnam@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 158.

Friday | June 17

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat Songs & Torah Services. 5:45-6:30 p.m. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. For information or Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org. Temple Beth-El Shabbat Under the Stars. 7-8:30 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Gather together on the Julie Claire Gutterman Biblical Garden patio to greet Shabbat with songs and stories. Information, Joie Magnone at jmagnone@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100.

Saturday | June 18

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual and In-Person Shabbat Services. 9:30

a.m.-noon. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. Bar Mitzvah ceremony will be celebrated. Information or Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

a.m.-12:30 p.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. B’nai Mitzvah ceremony will be celebrated. Information or Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Sunday | June 19

Providence Hebrew Day School Amudim Dinner. 4:30-9 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. PHDS pays tribute to donors and friends. Cost: $65. Information, Rabbi Scheinerman at pscheinerman@phdschool.org or 401-331-5327.

36th Annual Dwares JCC Golf Classic. 11 a.m. Lake of Isles at Foxwoods, One Clubhouse Drive, North Stonington, Conn. Co-chairs Jeffrey Vogel, Jeffrey Brier and Doug Emanuel. Support the com-

munity’s programs and services. Registration followed by 11:30 a.m. lunch, 12:30 p.m. shotgun start and 6 p.m. cocktail reception & awards. Information and sign up (by 6/10), Abi Weiner at aweiner@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 146.

Our Mission: To improve the quality of life for those we serve.

Let us help you . . .

Friday | June 24

Temple Beth-El Kabbalat Shabbat Services. 5:45-6:15 p.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Join in person, via Zoom or on Facebook Live. Information, Joie Magnone at jmagnone@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100.

Monday | June 27

(401) 383-1950 www.rahri.com

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat Songs & Torah Services. Fridays 5:45-6:30 p.m. Led by Rabbi Aaron Philmus. For information or Zoom link, Temple@ toratyisrael.org.

Saturday | June 25

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual and In-Person Shabbat Services. 9:30

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8 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

FOOD

Celebrate Shavuot and summer with homemade cheesecake BY LISA MAYBRUCH

Mini Cheesecakes

FINALLY, WARMER WEATHER is here! For me, this means fresh fruit, gardening, family gatherings and Shavuot, a holiday when we typically eat all things delicious and dairy-based – like cheesecake. When I texted my family about making cheesecake, their responses said it all: “yummm” and “delicious!” and, from my twin sister, “remember that time Dad bought us a giant cheesecake for our birthday a few years ago? That was the best.” For my family, cheesecake isn’t just about its deliciously smooth texture, the sweet and salty combination of the crust or finding the best toppings – it’s also about pride. Since my parents grew up in Brooklyn, they claim there is nothing better than New York Style Cheesecake. My parents don’t recall my grandparents ever making this treat at home, but I have fond memories of the cheesecakes picked up from the local bakery for special occasions. Making cheesecake can get complicated, with its water bath and chilling time. Measurements must be precise and special care needs to be

INGREDIENTS For the crust: 1 cup (114g) finely crushed graham crackers 1 1/2 tablespoons (19g) granulated sugar Pinch of salt 3 tablespoons (38g) melted butter

taken while mixing so as not to overwhip the batter. But nobody should miss out on this luscious treat for fear of a baking disaster, so I’ve scaled down the recipe to make it more approachable. These Mini Cheesecakes are simple and tasty. Give them a try! In the recipe, I suggest salted caramel or strawberry jam for toppings, but feel free to get creative! Have a baking question? Want me to make your family

recipe? Feel free to email me at lmaybruch@jewishallianceri.org. And check out all my baking videos, at Jewishrhody.org/baking-with-lisa. LISA MAYBRUCH (lmaybruch@ jewishallianceri.org) is the manager of adult programs at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. Her occasional series, “Baking with Lisa,” appears in Jewish Rhode Island and online at Jewishrhody.org/baking-withlisa.

For the filling: 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 tablespoons (12g) all-purpose flour 2 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese, room temperature 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 cup (58g) sour cream, room temperature 1/4 cup (2 fluid ounces) heavy cream, room temperature Toppings, optional

DIRECTIONS For the crust: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a mixing bowl, whisk together crushed graham crackers, sugar and salt. Pour in melted butter and stir mixture until evenly coated. Divide graham cracker mixture among 12 paperlined muffin cups; about 2 tablespoons each. Press mixture into an even

layer. Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool while preparing filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. For the cheesecake mixture: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sugars, salt and flour until well blended. Add softened cream cheese to a different mixing bowl and pour sugar mixture on top. With an electric mixer, blend mixture on low speed until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time and blend on low speed while scraping sides and bottom of bowl. Mix just until combined after each addition. Add vanilla, sour cream and heavy cream and mix just until combined. Tap mixing bowl on the countertop to release some of the air bubbles. Divide mixture among muffin cups, filling each nearly to the top of the cupcake liner. Bake in 325-degree oven 18-23 minutes, or until the centers barely jiggle. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 1 hour at room temperature. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and transfer to refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours. Top with your favorite jam, whipped cream or caramel, and enjoy!

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JUNE 2022 | 9

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

FOOD

Help for households struggling to afford healthy food RECENT SPIKES in food costs have left many more households wondering how they will be able to make ends meet. Jewish Collaborative Services’ Kosher food pantry, called The Full Plate, is here to help those across the state who are struggling more than ever to afford healthy food for their families. We know that not all Jewish families live in or near Providence where the JCS Kosher food pantry is located, so we have decided to take our pantry on the road.

A new initiative called Pantry Pop-Up will allow us to take our pantry products, including fresh produce, frozen chicken, and common household items (laundry detergent, dish soap, toilet paper, etc.), and more, to various locations throughout Rhode Island. We aim to create a warm, welcoming environment filled with support so that we can lift people’s moods as we fill their grocery bags. Help us to spread the word as we aim to increase food security for those who may not have

needed assistance before, but do now. If you would like more information or to request a Pop-Up for your community, please contact Katie Giardino, JCS Clinical Case Manager, at Katie@jfsri. org or 401-331-1244 If you are interested in volunteering with The Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry you can contact our Volunteer Coordinator at dori@ jfsri.org

or registration. Any child who is enrolled in Alliance programs under age 18 may come to eat. For more information, contact Jim Rawl at 401-421-4111, ext. 140. Each year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture partners with local organizations like Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island to provide free meals to children when school is out for the summer. For more information about

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10 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

FOOD

Shoshana Laufer: Cooking up connections in the Jewish community

ebbetzin Shoshana Laufer and her husband, Rabbi Yossi Laufer, run the Chabad of West Bay Chai Center, in Warwick. Shoshana’s

love of Kosher cooking and her culinary skills have made a significant contribution to Rhode Island’s Jewish community.

The following Q&A has been lightly edited for clarity.

Q: How did your great interest in cooking start? A. I have to give credit to my mother, who always allowed me into the kitchen as a child. By the time I became 10 or 11, I knew how to make a Shabbat dinner.

Y L I VI

My mother always made homemade dishes, and I didn’t realize how special that was until my friend, who came for Shabbat, said, “You’re so lucky that your mother makes everything homemade because my mother couldn’t.” So I started thinking about the love and the warmth that comes from homemade food.

HEA

A. I’m very grateful that my passion is something that I have to do a lot of anyway. I spend so much time in the kitchen, and I actually enjoy it. Not everyone does. If I’m having a stressful day, I go to my kitchen to cook because it relaxes me. There’s this whole idea about bringing godliness into our day through our food, which is why there are PATRICIA so many mitzvot connected RASKIN to food. I also feel that when we cook, our energy goes into our food, so if we’re in a happy mood, people feel it. I also love hosting

JEWISH RHODE ISLAND recently spoke with Shoshana about her passion for homemade food, Kosher cooking and mitzvot.

Q. And how about your love of Kosher cooking?

The Laufers and connecting with people through food, and I feel it’s a very powerful way of connection.

Q. How do you choose your recipes? A. I’ve always had my go-to easy recipes. Over the years, whenever I came across a recipe that is easy and tasty, they became my go-to recipes. I think that is why I love cooking so much; it’s not a burden for me. I have set menus for each holiday, so I’m not reinventing the wheel each time. I’ll add a new dish here and there, but I’m not starting from scratch.

Q. How do you organize and get all this done with a large family? A. I’m all about stress-free cooking. There are some things that you can only make fresh, like the salads and the pastas and things like that. But there are many recipes that can be easily frozen, like cakes, cookies, challah, kugels, meatballs. With all the cooking I do, I make large amounts at once. So if I’m making a cake, it’s an automatic four times because that’s what my mixer fits, and if I’m doing a hamantashen recipe, it’s automatically three times. So the bowls get dirty once.

Q: What is your favorite recipe? What does everyone seem to love? A. The meatballs are absolutely a favorite, and I have to thank my mother-in-law for giving me the recipe. I did tweak it a little, but it is based on her recipe. Every time I send meatballs to someone,

they always say, “Oh those meatballs!” The sesame noodles are also very popular, which is a very easy recipe. Another request I get often is for my Nishnosh salad dressing.

Q. What are some of Shoshana’s tips and tricks for Kosher cooking? A. Freeze food as soon as it’s cool and still fresh. I call it “fresh frozen.” Examples are potato knishes, cookies and rugelach. Have a pareve section in the kitchen. It’s not meat and it’s not dairy, which means that whatever I make on that side, I can use either for a meat meal or dairy meal. Examples are challah, cakes and other pareve dishes that can be served as a dairy meal or meat meal, as well as vegetarian options. Use your oven. This prevents stirring time and possible burning on top of the stove. Examples are rice, roasted vegetables, anything that you can sauté goes in the oven. Use one special spice or seasoning for a dish. It can change the flavor and it’s easy. Give charity before cooking. When we think of others before we cook, by putting a coin in a box [tzedakah], it gives a special blessing to the food.

Q: How have you brought cooking and food to our Jewish community? A. Challah has been a big part of my life. From the start, CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

FOOD

Food influencer Eitan Bernath has a new cookbook BY JULIA GERGELY

with over 2 million on TikTok alone. He’s a regular culinary contributor on “The Drew Barrymore Show;” his first cookbook came out Tuesday, May 3, and he was recently named to another list of young changemakers: Forbes’

(NEW YORK JEWISH WEEK) – Eitan Bernath props up his iPhone, checks his mic and tries to remember the order of his cookie recipe. He’s about to go live on his Instagram feed, which has more than 650,000 followers. ‘his first cookbook The stage lights are on and it’s show time. came out Tuesday... and “Today we’re making chocolate chunk cookies, with brown butter he was recently named and bourbon,” he says enthusiastically while to another list of young dramatically opening his cookbook, “Eitan changemakers’ Eats the World,” for the camera. “30 Under 30.” When the New York Jewish It’s an incredible rise for the Week first featured Bernath Jewish social media personalas one of its “36 Under 36” ity who turned 20 last month. honorees in 2018, the thenBernath – who was raised in 15-year-old had some 75,000 Teaneck, New Jersey – has followers for his cooking been obsessed with food since videos and recipe blogs. Five his elementary school days, years later, his star has risen and he made his first TV considerably: Bernath, now appearance on a “Chopped” has an audience of 7 million episode when he was just 12 across all of his platforms,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 we have had challah available on Shabbat. We give it out in the community to let people know we are thinking of them. When the pandemic hit, and I couldn’t host in-person women’s cooking events, I thought of new ways that I could connect to the people. After Passover of 2020, we started offering Shabbats to-go, which consisted of grape juice, candles, challah and one other dish. I continued that for about a year and a half, and I’m still doing the challah, Kiddush and candles. I still bake about 50 challahs a week that are distributed, with most people picking them up. I like to be available if someone’s going through a hard time. I help them with homemade food to give them support. Sometimes I help when families are having relatives over who

are Kosher. I believe in families being able to eat together when one member becomes Kosher and the other isn’t. Food is such a beautiful way to connect with people, especially because food is central to our lives as Jews, in so many of our traditions and holidays. We get mitzvot from eating whether its matzah or Kiddush, and for eating in the sukkah. The eating experience brings the family and community together. PATRICIA RASKIN, owner of Raskin Resources Productions, is a media host, coach and award-winning radio producer and business owner. She is on the board of directors of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence. She is a recipient of the Providence Business News 2020 Leaders and Achievers award.

years old. These days, Bernath is the CEO of his own company, Eitan Productions, and oversees a staff of seven. “I think what I’m doing right now has always been my goal,” Bernath tells the New York Jewish Week. “Obviously, I didn’t think it would happen this fast and that Eitan Bernath at the White House. it would have this level of I’m going to be a famous chef growth by such a young age, and cook in front of millions but I wouldn’t say this came of people.’ They supported out of nowhere.” me and they believed in the Growing up, Bernath dream that I believed in. As attended Yavneh Academy a kid, that really means a lot and the Frisch School, the to you.” Modern Orthodox high As he’s explored paths school that includes Jared in the food industry, like Kushner among its alumni. running a food blog and Instead of participating in hosting his own food tutorials sports teams or after-school on social media platforms, clubs, he focused on learning Bernath realized he likes new recipes, writing his food entertaining people as much blog and growing his social as he likes cooking. He has a media following. preternatural ability to turn “My parents were just as it on for the camera – which supportive when I was 12 as is usually an iPhone propped they are right now,” he says. up on a salt cellar and olive “I used to tell them, ‘One day,

PHOTO | JTA

oil dispenser. His expressions are exaggerated and inviting, his voice loud and engaging, his movements and words going so fast the viewer almost runs out of breath just watching. “I would say my love for entertaining people is just as strong as my love for food at this point,” Bernath says. “When I realized that, it was a big game changer for me. I don’t want to open a restaurant, I don’t want to be in the back of the kitchen all day long. I want to be on camera, educating people and getting CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

A few of Shoshana Laufer’s favorite recipes:

Meatballs INGREDIENTS 1 pound ground beef 1/4 cup matzah meal or bread crumbs 1 onion grated 1 carrot grated 1 large egg 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Tomato sauce

DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients except tomato sauce. Roll mixture into meatballs. Cooking Option 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread layer of sauce in 9- x 13-inch cooking tray, put meatballs on top and cover with another layer of sauce. Cover and bake at 350 for 1 1/2 -2 hours. Cooking Option 2 (suitable for 1-3 pounds meat): Bring water to a boil, add tomato sauce and 8-ounce can of tomato paste and return to a boil. Add meatballs to the boiling water, bring back to a boil and then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2-2 hours.

Nishnosh Salad Dressing

Sesame Noodles

INGREDIENTS

1 pound angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti, cooked and drained 1/4 cup dark soy sauce 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil 1/3 cup sugar 1/4 cup sesame seeds, optional

1/2 cup oil 1/4 cup water 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon mustard 1 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder

DIRECTIONS Vigorously mix all ingredients together. The dressing goes nicely with shredded cabbage or green salads.

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS Combine soy sauce, toasted sesame oil and sugar to make a dressing. Pour dressing onto cooked pasta and mix well. Toss with sesame seeds, if desired.

12 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

FOOD

You can adopt your very own olive tree in Israel BY LARRY KATZ INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS can now adopt an olive tree in Israel, and then enjoy the boutique olive oil it produces. Kobi Asaf, founder of My Tree in Israel, envisions it as a way that people around the world can connect with Israel, and as a means to promote and support Israeli farmers. Adoptions through the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island ensure that the tree is located in Afula-Gilboa, our partnership area in Israel. In addition, a portion of the adoption fees supports the Alliance’s annual campaign and are tax deductible. Yishai Gelb, vice-president of marketing for My Tree in Israel, said that while donations of all sorts are still important, “Israel today is a prosperous nation, a successful nation” and “we want

people to enjoy what Israel has to offer.” Trees can be adopted as a memorial, for personal use, or as a gift, and have already been adopted by people throughout North America, Europe and Africa. The olive grove is near the Jezreel Valley, just a few kilometers west of Afula. When someone adopts a tree, a farmer takes care of it and cultivates it year-round. The olives are harvested in November, and high-quality Kosher extra-virgin boutique olive oil is produced from that grove. Six bottles are produced per tree, and the labels can be personalized in whatever manner the adoptive owner chooses. The bottles are then shipped to the adoptive owner. And you may even visit your tree in Israel! Gelb said a highlight for

him is seeing the reactions from those involved in the program, and how much having roots in Israel – and the special olive oil they receive – means to them. Adopting an olive tree, and receiving six 750 ml bottles of its olive oil with your own private label, costs $250. A trio of such bottles, also with your own private label, costs $160. Bottles will be delivered to the Dwares Jewish Community Center in Providence for pick up, unless you wish to pay a small shipping fee to receive them directly at any address. More information about adopting a tree is available at jewishallianceri.org/My-Tree or by contacting Larry Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org. LARRY KATZ is the director of Jewish Life and Learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

Thanking our Jewish neighbors for their support over the past 30 years!

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Sweet potato slices with herbs and quality Israeli olive oil It is a perfect recipe with quality Israeli olive oil that can be served as an addition to the main course or as a dish on its own with sour yogurt. Brought to you by the olive oil council in Israel.

INGREDIENTS 4 medium sweet potatoes in their skins 1 sprig of rosemary cut into slices 2 thyme branches cut into slices 1 / 4-1 / 3 cup high-quality Israeli olive oil 1/4 cup dry wine Tablespoon and a half balsamic vinegar Freshly ground black pepper A little coarse salt

DIRECTIONS Wash the sweet potatoes well. Cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise and each half into 4-2 slices, to taste. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a pan lined with baking paper. Add a little coarse salt and pepper. Sprinkle with rosemary and thyme leaves. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, wine, and balsamic vinegar and pour with a spoon over the sweet potatoes. Bake until the sweet potatoes soften in a preheated oven at 200-220 degrees. Remove the foil and continue to roast for another 15 minutes. From time to time drizzle the liquid on the sweet potatoes.

Jews named to Time 100 list (JTA) – Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine’s Jewish president who has been leading his country during the Russian invasion that began in late February, has been named to Time magazine’s annual list of the world’s 100 most influential people. Zelenskyy was listed in the “leaders” category, and his entry was written by U.S. President Joe Biden. Several Jewish entertainers also made the list released on Monday [May 30], including another with Ukrainian heritage: actress Mila Kunis, who immigrated from Chernivtsi to the United States at age 7 and launched a campaign that has raised over $36 million for Ukrainian refugee aid efforts. Other actors like Andrew Garfield, Sarah Jessica Parker and Zoë Kravitz were included, as well as “Saturday Night Live” comedian Pete

Davidson, who was just announced to be leaving after seven years on the show. Taika Waititi, the MaoriJewish director from New Zealand of “JoJo Rabbit” fame, had his entry written by Jewish actor and comedian Sacha Baron Cohen. In “JoJo Rabbit,” a Hitler Youth member finds out his mother (played by Scarlett Johansson) is hiding a Jewish girl in their attic. Andy Jassy, who became CEO of Amazon last year, was named in the “titans” category. Other Jews who made it on the list include photographer and opioid crisis activist Nan Goldin, who led protests against museums’ ties to the Sackler family of Purdue Pharma, and David Zaslav, CEO and president of Warner Bros. Discovery.

JUNE 2022 | 13

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES

The unforgettable Paulette Noble CH

books, which range from researching to remembering. Her current publication is titled, whimsically, “The Perils of Paulette” and it is a fabulous collection! Paulette is a Holocaust survivor who, along with a sister, was placed in an orphanage in Belgium. Paulette was adopted, MIKE FINK without her sister, by a family in New York. She was reunited with her sibling much later in her life. Now, as a “critic,” I must confess that I was shocked! – even appalled! – by the frankness of her accounts. I’m a bit of a prim 19th-century fellow when it comes to confessions. I don’t go in for blunt, direct language or too much action and excitement. I prefer a rather prim approach. But Paulette tells all, and she writes with brilliance, courage, humor and a wild honesty about each and every adventure of her most unusual life –

BOOK

SKE

I MET PAULETTE at a rooftop party in Boston when she was a senior at Brandeis. She had used reparation money to tool around in a crimson sports coupe and, as I recall, she took me on as a passenger to visit the Rhode Island shore. Over the many decades since that first encounter (she was wearing a pleated white skirt, as I recall), she has somehow stayed in touch and sent me chapters from her career as a writer. She has produced columns about pets, anecdotes about celebrities, accounts of her major battle with Scientology, and now, an autobiography. No, I was not a major figure in her life story, there’s no mention of me in her memoir, but we never forgot each other. She visited me with her husband, Paul Noble, when we were staying in Palm Beach, Florida, and she sends me her

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and I stretched my usual taste to accommodate her daring and her artistry. Paulette has a touch of something I will label “vanity,” which was evident by her including a number of flattering self-portraits, photographs of her charming, mischievous smile and her youthful blonde good looks, that belie the rough language of her adventures and misadventures. I guess my favorite short piece from the book is her sketch of how she desired to lose her virginity with a nice, shy, “cute” boy named Eddie. But it doesn’t work out and he ends up as a priest! That miniature tale has a touch of subtle irony, but many other confessions close quite differently, I give you fair warning. No emotion is lacking or missing among the fascinating chapters of this abundant adven-

ture in living and writing. I honestly recommend it for those shocking virtues of inclusivity. I hope to meet Paulette Noble again somehow, somewhere, sometime. I think I missed out on much of her when we were young; I saw only her superficial qualities. But now that she has found her happiness, as have I, perhaps we could come up with a conversation about the challenges of a career in the arts that can mix autobiography and entertainment and bring out the best of both of us. MIKE FINK (mfink33@aol.com) teaches at the Rhode Island School of Design.

The Jewish Alliance is giving you the opportunity to connect to an Israeli farmer who will create for you your own private brand of boutique olive oil bottles.

To learn more, visit JewishAllianceRI.org/My-Tree/ or scan the QR code with your smart phone.

Promote Israel while supporting Rhode Island’s Jewish community! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Annual Community Campaign.

14 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES

The worst of times, the best of times BY LARRY KESSLER

s I write this, I’m observing the yahrzeit of my

mother, Sylvia, on the 25th anniversary of her death, on May 15, 1997.

SPE A

K IN

G OU

AT FIRST BLUSH, it’s difficult to fathom that it’s been a quarter-century since I spent Mother’s Day with my mother at her nursing home bed, where she was unresponsive and was basically waiting to die after several years of battling Alzheimer’s disease and its complications. By that point, it was a blessing that she had only a few more days to live, because her mind, body and soul were all ravaged beyond belief by the Alzheimer’s, which had long ago robbed her of everything that had made her my mother. We first started

noticing cognitive and behavioral changes in my mother in the early 1990s, but by the time we were able to get a definitive diagnosis, in June 1994, her condition had progressed beyond the point where treatment with experimental drugs would be considered helpful. But the worst was yet to come. Two years later, my mother had deteriorated to the point where I was told by a social worker that she had to be removed from the apartment that she and my father shared in Brookline, Massachusetts. LARRY That occurred KESSLER on June 6, 1996, and my mother was then sent to a Boston-area hospital for a week, until we could locate space for her at a nursing home. Exactly one week later, on June 13, 1996, Sylvia was placed in what would be her final residence – and things

went downhill immediately. Part of the reason for that was that my mother had just enough self-awareness left to realize that she was in a place where she didn’t want to be – and would never be leaving. As a result, she behaved as many seniors affected by dementia have likely done over the years: she gave up. The next year was hell, as she was put on way too many medications that did nothing for her and only made her more agitated and angrier at those closest to her: her family. She blamed me especially for putting her in the nursing home, and therefore spent most of her remaining semi-coherent time lambasting me and my wife, Lynne. Her condition only worsened, and after the nursing home insisted on shuttling her back and forth from psychiatric hospitals – which only increased her agitation and essentially sucked the life out of her – her passing was a blessing. But Sylvia’s story wasn’t over – not by a long shot. In the early days of the summer of 1996, while my wife and I were dealing with my mother’s deteriorating health, we were also pursuing the adoption of our first child from China. That was in the days when thousands of Chinese children, mainly girls, were being adopted yearly by Americans, due to China’s one-child policy (which ended in 2015). My wife and I started the adoption process in January 1996, and after 19 months of bureaucratic delays, we finally received a picture of the girl meant for us, in August 1997. We had already decided that our daughter would share the Hebrew names of Lynne’s father, who died on Memorial Day weekend in 1996, my mother, and my grandmother,

who had died in 1993 but hadn’t yet had a baby named for her. Those intentions took on a deeper meaning after we received our daughter’s date of birth: June 13, 1996, the date when my mother’s life essentially ended, after she was, in effect, exiled to a nursing home against her will. Over the years, I’ve begun to interpret that eerie juxtaposition as a positive sign. I see it as proof that it was part of a divine plan to make sure that we received just the right girl to raise. Now, almost 26 years after my daughter’s birth, and 25 years after my mother’s passing, we have been nothing but blessed with our first child. Arianna, who is a teacher, has grown up to be a responsible, independent adult who willingly takes on challenges. Recently, for instance, she followed in her father’s footsteps, running her first marathon, in Providence. (Her father ran 17 26.2-milers in his younger days.) She made us proud then, as she’s done so often in her life. I have no doubt that she would have been loved by Sylvia, if she had lived long enough to become a grandmother. LARRY KESSLER (larrythek65@gmail. com) is a freelance writer based in North Attleboro. He and his wife adopted their younger daughter, Alana, from China in 2002. He blogs at https:// larrytheklineup.blogspot. com.

Larry and Arianna embrace after she finished the Providence Marathon on May 1.

Arianna Kessler smiles after just crossing the Providence Marathon finish line on May 1.

The columnist’s parents Ike and Sylvia Kessler are pictured at Larry and Lynne’s wedding on Oct. 29, 1988.

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COMMUNITY VOICES

Another Jewish landmark? BY GEORGE M. GOODWIN

n my article in the last issue of Jewish Rhode Island, I asked whether there is something

essentially Jewish about making pilgrimages to Jewish sites, as well as other religious and secular sites. Perhaps a destination in Manchester, New Hampshire, is particularly confounding, for it was the progeny of a Jewish husband and a gentile wife.

in 1925. He studied medicine at Tufts and obtained further training in Los Angeles and Philadelphia. So was it a lack of opportunity in larger cities that brought him to Manchester around 1940? Six years earlier, he had married Lucille Cummings, five years his junior, who came from a large family in Louisville, Kentucky. An aspiring nurse, she had trained at the New Hampshire State Hospital, in Concord. The Zimmermans never had children, and if the couple affiliated with Manchester’s Reform congregation, Adath Yeshurun, established in 1900, it was probably a loose connection. Rather than purchasing burial plots in Manchester’s Jewish cemetery, or beside his parents in Boston’s United Hand in Hand Cemetery, Isadore and Lucille Inside the house. would select a resting place in their own backyard. Brooks Pfeiffer, eds. (New York: The couple lived in a conventional, Rizzoli International Publications, 14-room house at 703 Maple St. for Inc. in association with The Frank more than a dozen years. Isadore Lloyd Wright Foundation, 1993), the and Lucille were serious musicians Zimmerman House was characterwho also enjoyed reading and travel. ized as a “masterwork.” They were drawn to nature and had In 1950, Toufic Kalil, a Syria heightened sense of privacy. an-born Christian, and his wife, The Zimmermans fired the first Mildred, decided to build their architect for the new home they own Usonian in Manchester, at 117 planned to build even before reading Heather, only a short walk from the about Wright. In 1949, once they had Zimmermans’ home. The couples met and consulted with the master were well acquainted since the men at his idyllic compound west of Madhad rented offices in the same mediison, Wisconsin, they never looked cal building, at 967 Elm St., and the back. women worked as their assistants. I have determined that since The Kalils were also childless, the mid-1930s, approximately 20 of so needed only two bedrooms. But Wright’s 100 clients for “Usonian” their slightly smaller residence, homes were Jews. In theory at least, while manifesting many of the such homes were custom-designed same principals as the Zimmeryet moderately priced. They were mans’ house, was made primarily built across the country, including of concrete blocks rather than such

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT (1867-1959), a Unitarian from Wisconsin, associated with a large number of Jews during much of his extraordinary architectural career. One of his notable employers in Chicago was Dankmar Adler, a son and grandson of rabbis, who built several synagogues and other structures for Jewish clients. After establishing his own highly successful practice in suburban Oak Park, Illinois, Wright attracted relatively few Jewish clients, although in 1908 there was the Meyer May family in Grand Rapids, Michigan. And at the end of his amazingly prolific career, he designed a bold Conservative synagogue, Beth Sholom, in suburban Philadelphia. How many Rhode Islanders know that Wright spent a few of his childhood years in Pawtucket? His father, William, was the minister at the High Street Baptist Church from 1871 to 1873. And Frank spoke at Brown University in 1933, hoping to recruit apprentices for his new Taliesin Fellowship, in rural Wisconsin. traditional materials as wood, Wright also received a and terra-cotta. ‘How many Rhode Islanders know brick commission for a home in I first visited the ZimmerWarwick, in 1946, but William man House in 1992, when I that Wright spent a few of his and Eleanor Slater, the young was able to interview another couple who hired him, told me visitor, Loren Pope, who had childhood years in Pawtucket?’ in 1992 that the cost was too built one of the first Usonians, high, so, regrettably, it was in 1941 in Falls Church, Virnever built. in Alabama, New Mexico and Ohio. ginia. Isadore Jacob Zimmerman, a Jew, The Zimmermans’ stunning home I have been fortunate to experiwas born in New York City in 1903. at 223 Heather St., in Manchester’s ence the Zimmerman House a few Though he was not much interested North End, was completed in 1952. more times, but my most recent in religious observance, many of In a letter to “Mr. Wright,” they trip, a few weeks ago, was perhaps his urology patients and colleagues proclaimed: “We are now living in the best. My wife, Betsey, came probably perceived him as religious. the new house, an experience we with me, as did our dear friends and His father, Samuel, had emigrated would not miss for all the monetary neighbors, Jim and Jill Tobak, who from Vilna, Lithuania, and worked riches in the world.” So, in place of are Wright enthusiasts. as a “cutter” in textile factories. His a Wrightian title, perhaps “PriceIt was a perfect early spring day, mother, Lena, had emigrated from less” or “Hosannah” would have and the property was awash with Minsk, in Belarus. Most likely, been appropriate names for the new light, color and fragrance. Visitors she took primary responsibility for house. were allowed to move at their own Isadore’s four younger siblings, who In a gorgeous book co-published pace, perhaps as they imagined that were born in Boston. by the Wright Foundation in 1993, the Zimmermans had prepared a Isadore graduated from Boston “Frank Lloyd Wright: The Mastasty meal and would soon perform Latin School, then Harvard College, terworks,” David Larkin & Bruce on their grand piano and cello.

PHOTO | GEORGE GOODWIN

We examined many of the couple’s fine pieces of contemporary pottery and glass, Japanese screens, and African and pre-Columbian sculptures, displayed on numerous built-in shelves. I didn’t see any Jewish ritual objects, but did notice Cecil Roth’s reference book, Jewish Art: An Illustrated History, among hundreds of other volumes. The Zimmerman House, built on one level, measures only 1,450 square feet. The front door leads to a narrow hallway, which gives way to an expansive living room. An array of rear windows and glass doorways facilitate a heavenly embrace: sky, clouds, lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers and occasional singing creatures. The Zimmerman House includes two tiny bedrooms and bathrooms, and a kitchen alcove known as a “workspace,” but the living room is so nurturing and restful that, during his final years, Isadore spent his days and evenings there. Wasn’t it in some sense a Jewish gesture when the Zimmermans decided to share their good fortune with younger generations of visitors and pilgrims by bequeathing their prize possession, and a restoration fund, to Manchester’s Currier Museum of Art? Fortunately, an anonymous donor also grasped the importance of the Kalil House and, following the death of the couple and their nephew, donated it to the Currier. Another mitzvah? GEORGE M. GOODWIN, of Providence, is the editor of Rhode Island Jewish Historical Notes.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

Six13 performs at Temple Emanu-El

PHOTOS | GLENN OSMUNDSON

Rabbi Wayne Franklin honored at Emanu-El’s Spring Celebration BY PAMELA HANZEL PROVIDENCE – May 13 was a day of celebration at Temple Emanu-El, featuring a Community Brunch honoring Rabbi Emeritus Wayne Franklin and entertainment by the a capella group Six13. Another highlight of the Spring Celebration was the dedication of the newly named Rabbi Wayne M. Franklin Wing, which is located at the top of the

stairs at the Taft Avenue entrance to the synagogue. Many participants spoke highly of Rabbi Franklin during the celebration. “He was with us in the best of times and in our hours of darkness. He was, and is, our teacher and our friend,” one said. The acclaimed group Six13 was a long time coming. Arts Emanu-El planned to welcome the singers in the spring of 2020, but this was not to be,

due to COVID. But it was worth the wait – old and young alike enjoyed their songs, which were matched to stories about Judaism and Jewish holidays and sprinkled with humor. Concert-goers called it “an amazing performance.” PAMELA HANZEL is the chair of Arts Emanu-El at Temple Emanu-El, in Providence.

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

CENTER

SUMMER

LCOME! ALL ARE WE

Rabbi Wayne Franklin speaks.

SUMMER J-CAMP 2022

SAFE & OR FUN June 27 - August 26 EASY F ! F O R S T KIDS! Grades K - 6: Campers PAREN Grades 7 - 10: Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Registration for Summer J-Camp is now open. Visit jewishallianceri.org/summer-j-camp/ Questions? Contact Jimmy Rawl at jrawl@jewishallianceri.org.

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

PROVIDENCE HEBREW DAY SCHOOL

NEW ENGLAND ACADEMY OF TORAH

AMUDIM DINNER 2022 Members of Six13 gave an inspiring performance.

SUNDAY, JUNE 19, 2022 I 5 PM JEWISH ALLIANCE OF RHODE ISLAND

AMUDIM AWARD

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

YOUNG LEADERSHIP AWARD

in recognition of our donors, solicitors, lay leadership and volunteers on the successful completion of the building campaign

mr. Jeffrey & mrs. Marcie Ingber

mr. Schabse and mrs. Aviva (Kaufman) Laks, neat 2012 alumna

ANNUAL AMUDIM DINNER

Members of Six13 entered to applause.

Ads and reservations can be made at WWW.PHDSCHOOL.ORG/AMUDIM Ad placement deadline – June 7th

18 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION About Bret Stephens

May-Ronny Zeidman East Greenwich, RI

General Mills divests its Israeli dough operation (JTA) – General Mills announced Tuesday it would be fully divesting from a business venture in Israel that had operated in an East Jerusalem settlement, in a move pro-Palestinian activists celebrated as the result of their campaign against the food conglomerate. The Minnesota-based company has operated a Pillsbury frozen-food factory in the Atarot Industrial Zone since 2002, in a joint venture with Israeli investment group Bodan Holdings. In a statement, the company said it would sell its majority stake in the venture back to Bodan as part of a larger international investment strategy. General Mills’ statement did not mention politics and noted that the company had previously moved to sell off its European dough business, as well. The company did not return multiple requests for comment from the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

Rabbi Rosenberg has been away from his desk. He has requested that we reprint his well-received column from April 3, 2009, which appeared in what was then the Jewish Voice & Herald.

“Can you do this, Job? Can you do that?” It is almost as if God is trying to crush Job’s rebellious spirit with a manifestation of overwhelming might, to break him with a display of near-infinite creative energy. At first glance, then, it would seem that Job’s questions and God’s response are skewed lines that will never meet. After decades of trying to discover some meaning in what appears to be a Divine temper tantrum, I have come to see that the author of Job imagines God saying, RABBI JAMES in effect, “Look, Job, ROSENBERG you are asking all the wrong questions. You see, the universe is not about you – or, certainly, not primarily about you.” As God continues to address Job, the tone of the Divine discourse begins to soften. God begins to show Job how the world appears through Divine eyes, as it were: “Take a look, Job, at all these animals living their lives without ever coming into contact with a single human being: lion, mountain goat, ostrich, eagle. They are part of My world, Job, just as you are.” Finally, as if to add a celestial exclamation point, God shows Job

EVER SINCE I first encountered the Book of Job, during my high school years, I have been wrestling with the enormous questions raised by this Biblical masterpiece: why do the innocent suffer? And conversely, why do the wicked all too often “get away with it”? After Auschwitz, how is it possible to call God just? What, then, is the nature of God? What might it mean to say that God has a relationship with you and with me? Even a superficial reading of the 42 chapters of the Book of Job will lead one to a disturbing conclusion: God’s thunderous answer to Job from out of the whirlwind (chapters 38-42) has nothing to do with Job’s questions (chapters 3-37). Briefly put, Job wants to know what he has done wrong to deserve such suffering; he demands his day in court: “God may well slay me, I may have no hope; yet will I argue my case before him.” (13.15) That is to say, Job is looking for God to reveal some dimension of justice in what appears to be a fundamentally unjust ‘Darwin’s theory of evolution world, a world in which God, with apparent does contain the seeds of a indifference, destroys the innocent along with powerful religious perspective ...’ the guilty. (9.22) When at last God does two of his most wondrous creatures: respond to Job, God simply ignores Behemoth, a hippopotamus-like Job’s concern for justice and proceeds to browbeat him with an angry giant with a tail as tall as a cedar; and Leviathan, a fearsome combinadisplay of cosmic power: tion of crocodile and fire-breathing dragon. The world is not about you, “Who are you to darken counsel Job; and the world is not about us. With words without knowledge? During the past few months (this Gird up your loins like a man; column was originally published on For I will question you, and you April 3, 2009), many of us have taken note of Charles Darwin’s 200th birthwill answer Me. day and the 150th anniversary of his Where were you when I laid the revolutionary “Origin of Species,” in foundations of the earth? which he lays the foundation for his Tell me, if you can understand theory of evolution through natural this.” (38.2-4) selection. I am struck by how closely DarGod goes on to browbeat Job with win’s vision of the evolutionary a long series of sarcastic questions: tree of life corresponds to the view

S TO M

I WAS THRILLED to hear that Bret Stephens would be speaking in Rhode Island. I was certainly present for the talk [on May 19]. He spoke beautifully and said all the things I have been saying and wanted other North American Jews to believe in and move forward with. I have worked for the RI Jewish community for most of my career. State of Israel Bonds, Jewish Federation of RI and just retired as executive director of the Bornstein Holocaust Education Center which I was with for 16 years. When he spoke of Jews adopting COURAGE, I said this man knows what he is talking about and what is needed. At the Q&A, he was asked about the New York Times’s bias against Israel and Jews. I was impressed as to how he sidestepped the question. I thought his loyalty to his employer was admirable and impressive. However, when I awoke, wow!!! I wondered how he was able to get paid and go around telling Jews to do something he was not willing to do. I cannot fathom where he gets his chutzpah. At least eight people have remarked to me about his hypocrisy. I believe he is disrespectful of his audience, the Jewish people and Israel.

Darwin’s Jobian perspective

IT S E

LETTER

of Divine fecundity found in the concluding chapters of Job. Both Darwin and the author of Job express their sense of awe at the spectacular variety and intricacy of the web of life. Both Darwin and the author of Job find in each particular a unique expression of life’s overwhelming plenitude. Perhaps most significantly, both Darwin and the author of Job insist that the primary purpose of our natural world is not to serve the needs of homo sapiens. It is certainly no secret that believers of a particularly narrow stripe find Darwin’s theory of evolution deeply threatening to their religious perspective. People today, like those who at the infamous “Monkey Trial” in 1925 sought to convict John Thomas Scopes for the “crime” of teaching evolution in Tennessee’s public schools, continue to base their case upon a hyper-literalist reading of Genesis. Apparently there is no room then or now in the narrow minds of Scopes’ accusers for the broader vision of Divine fecundity found in the concluding chapters of Job. While of course I make no claim that Darwin considered himself to be a religious person, the enduring irony is that Darwin’s theory of evolution does contain the seeds of a powerful – though admittedly alternative – religious perspective, the perspective of the author of Job: Our biological world, as it continues to evolve through the mechanism of natural selection, is an expression of Divine fecundity. The vast web of life in which we are immersed can be read as a sacred text. The natural world does not exist to serve our needs, but rather we exist to serve our natural world, to mend it and not to exploit it. Our species could do far worse than to turn to Darwin and the author of Job for renewed religious inspiration and direction. JAMES B. ROSENBERG is a rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim, in Barrington. Contact him at rabbiemeritus@templehabonim.org.

Jewish Rhode Island publishes thoughtful and informative contributors’ columns (op-eds of 500 – 800 words) and letters to the editor (300 words, maximum) on issues of interest to our Jewish community. At our discretion, we may edit pieces for publication or refuse publication. Letters and columns, whether from our regular contributors or from guest columnists, represent the views of the authors; they do not represent the views of Jewish Rhode Island or the Alliance.

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COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION

I left Israel to give my kids the American dream. Is this it? BY LIOR ZALTZMAN This article first appeared on Kveller. ON THE DAY when the shooting happens, I finally unlock what some say is the most vital part of the American dream. My husband and I have a house in the suburbs now, big trees towering above – no picket fence, but a wide expanse of green and room for the pattering of tiny feet. As we sign the paperwork, we each take turns rocking our baby on our legs. This house is for our children. We say it over and over again. If it were just he and I, we would be content with the walls of a small Brooklyn apartment, with the city streets as a backyard. Instead, we chose to give them rooms to grow into, a shingle roof, manicured lawns and a garden to plant and grow together. Like so many of the families in Uvalde, Texas, I am an immigrant. I came here to this country with a dream to give myself and my children a better future. As we drive home, our baby sleeping in the backseat, we hear the news of 21 dreams extinguished by an AR-15. Just like the shooter at

Robb Elementary school, I got my first rifle at 18 – it was borrowed, not bought, and a few weeks later I returned it, along with magazines full of bullets, to an army warehouse. It scraped against the fabric of my coarse olive green uniform, pushed against my core as I slept with it under my army-issued mattress. As I shot it at a dusty military range, I couldn’t help but think: I am too young and too stupid for this. When I was young, not much older than my oldest son is now, I was promised that maybe I wouldn’t have to go to the army when I grew up. When I moved away from Israel to the United States, I found comfort in the fact that this was one false promise I wouldn’t have to make to my children. But instead, I find myself with a much more harrowing false promise to make. Each day I send them to school, I’ll have to tell them they are safe when I know they are not. I grew up in a country where the faces of fallen soldiers greet you every morning at the entrance of schools, with a memorial wall for the soldier alumni who perished. And yet I knew that I was safe in the walls of my classrooms.

I come from a place dubbed the holy land, yet I cannot fathom how one could value thoughts and prayers over actions to protect the sanctity of the lives of our school children. I come from a land known for such violence, yet it has never treated the life of its young with such callousness. I come from a place known for occupation and war, shelters and bombs, missile fire and violent attacks in the streets – for all those reasons, I’m glad my children are growing up somewhere different. And yet, it’s also a place of gun control – it’s very hard to obtain a permit for a weapon in Israel. Once, someone tried to partially blame school shootings on America’s militarization, and I attempted to refute the argument by saying that I come from an even more militarized place. They scoffed at me, but it was true – school shootings don’t happen in Israel. The week before the Uvalde shooting, I talked to Jewish comedian Michael Ian Black about his book “A Better Man,” an open letter to his son about boyhood and masculinity which is bracketed by school shootings. I was dis-

tracted during our interview – my son was terribly ill, and being faced with your child’s mortality is a haunting, terrible thing. I told him how his book feels just as relevant now, two years after it came out, especially after the Buffalo shooting that had taken place the week before. As we ended our call, he told me that this would not be the last time his book feels pertinent, the last mass shooting. It’s an awful thing to be right about this week. It’s an awful thing that these shootings feel unavoidable. It’s an awful thing to, once again, be faced with our children’s mortality this way. I return, over and over again, to an Onion headline: “‘No Way To Prevent This,’ Says Only Nation Where This Regularly Happens.” I come from a country that prevents this – so many other immigrants in this country do, too. The 21 victims of the Uvalde shooting should still be with us. Yes, in Israel, we send children to defend our country, in uniforms and guns – but at least they know they’ll be in danger. Every day, the children of this country get drafted to be part of a war, one that they didn’t sign up for – a cynical

war waged by politicians and gun lobbies. Almost every mass shooting involves an AR-15, and yet we refuse to outlaw them; so many shootings are committed by young, angry men, and yet we don’t restrict their access to guns. Too many men and women in power send us the message that guns are more important than the lives of our children and of their teachers, who are meant to foster their growth, not shield them with their bodies. I had my children in this country hoping, in part, to protect them from violence. But when I see images of Alithia Ramirez and Irma Garcia – all the Uvalde victims and their families, another community devastated by this same gun – I recognize that’s an American dream that, for now, I cannot give them. LIOR ZALTZMAN is an associate editor at Kveller. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

The boycott Israel movement gets little notice in US BY RON KAMPEAS (JTA) – A Pew Research Center survey released Thursday [May 26] found that American adults are just not paying attention to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement against Israel. A whopping 84% of adults surveyed said they have heard “not much” or “nothing at all” about the movement, which seeks to pressure Israel into changing its policy toward the Palestinians by promoting boycotts and economic sanctions. Only 5% of the surveyed adults – who were of diverse religious backgrounds – knew “some” about it, and only 2% strongly support it. Pew used an online panel to

survey 10,441 U.S. adults from March 7 to 13, with the stated goal of better understanding Americans’ views of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The margin of error for the full sample was 1.5 percentage points. Jewish American organizations are at odds over how best and even whether to combat the movement, often referred to as BDS, and Arab American and Palestinian American organizations are generally in favor of the movement. That has led to fraught political clashes – but Americans by and large don’t seem to notice. The survey also asked about views on how to best solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and only 35% favor

a two-state solution, the outcome long favored by the United States and many other world power governments. The numbers changed little even among partisans, with 34% of Republicans and 36% of Democrats favoring the outcome. As far as an alternative: 37% say they don’t know the best solution, while 27% favor a one-state solution, in most cases with a joint Israeli-Palestinian government. The survey also found that Americans’ favorable impressions of both Israelis and Palestinians are slightly on the rise. Since 2019, when Pew conducted a similar survey, favorable impressions of Israelis rose from 64% to 67%,

and of Palestinians from 46% to 52%. Favorables also rose for the peoples’ governments, although they were not as popular: Israel’s government was viewed favorably by 48% of Americans as opposed to 41% in 2019. Notably, in the interim, Benjamin Netanyahu, who had famously tense relations with Democrats, was ousted as Israeli prime minister. The Palestinian government’s favorability rose from 21% to 28% and its unfavorable ratings dropped from 71% to 63%. The questions, Pew said, did not give particulars on Palestinian government, which has two branches: The Palestinian Authority in the

West Bank and the Hamas-led authority in the Gaza Strip. Older Americans were more likely to be favorable to Israeli people: 63% of those aged 18-25 viewed Israelis favorably while 77% of those 65 and older did. Republicans also were likelier to view Israelis favorably: 78% said they had positive views of the Israeli people, while 37% said they had positive views of Palestinians. Among Democrats, 60% said they viewed Israelis favorably and 64% said they viewed Palestinians favorably. Three out of ten Americans also believe God gave the land of Israel to the Jewish people; that breaks down to 46% of Republicans and 18% of Democrats.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

BUSINESS 28 | OBITUARIES 30

Harris Chorney to be new chair of Alliance’s board BY FRAN OSTENDORF

o Harris Chorney, being active in the Jewish community is a priority.

“I believe in a thriving and flourishing Jewish community,” he said in a recent interview. “If I can help build that, sustain it, then I want to be a part of it.” NOW, AFTER serving as vice chair of community development for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Chorney takes over on June 16 as chair of the board. This isn’t Chorney’s first go-round as a volunteer in the Jewish community. The Providence native and his wife, Sally, lived in West Hartford, Connecticut, for a number of years, and he was an active member of the Beth El Temple community there, eventually serving as president of the congregation. When they returned

to Rhode Island a dozen years ago, the Chorneys found a welcoming community in Narragansett, a place they were familiar with from spending summers there years ago. “It’s a wonderful place,” Chorney said. Chorney became active in Narragansett’s Congregation Beth David, a year-round synagogue with about 135 member families. Eventually, he became president. When former Alliance CEO Jeffrey Savit suggested he get involved with the Alliance, Chorney did. He brought a background in finance to the board under former chair Mitzi Berkelhammer, serving as a board appointee and then as treasurer. His involvement has continued under board chair James Pious and Alliance president and CEO Adam Greenman. “Harris is incredibly thoughtful and passionate about how the Alliance serves our entire community. He brings a wealth of experience to

the role, and will build on the great work that Jamie Pious has done these last three years. I’m excited to partner with him to further grow our strong, vibrant Jewish community,” Greenman said. Harris Chorney Chorney said he’s looking forward to He spoke highly of the helping to continue to board’s make up, which build a thriving Jewish has geographic diversity, community and to mentoyouth and members with ring the next generation. history in the organiza“I’ll be the first board tion. chair of the Alliance that The challenge, he said, has no relationship to the is to get the next generthree organizations that ation involved with the merged, because I wasn’t Alliance. involved with them,” “We have a tremendous he said, referring to the opportunity” to engage Jewish Federation of the Jewish community, Rhode Island, the Jewish he said. Community Center and “We have to take what the Bureau of Jewish we do and bring it to Education. This annual Narragansett, Middlemeeting marks the 11th town, East Greenwich, year for the combined Barrington. Bring those organization programs and events and “I have great respect share them outside of for Adam [Greenman] Providence. The building and the team he’s put [the Alliance’s Dwares together,” Chorney said. Jewish Community Cen“I have a strong belief ter] will obviously be the that the team will get it center point for speakers done.” and events like Bret Ste-

PHOTO | GLENN OSMUNDSON

phens [who spoke at the JCC in May].” Chorney said he looks forward to engaging more Jews in celebrating Judaism. “Jews are looking to be Jewish in other ways. This gives us an opportunity to be the place where Jews are engaged,” he said. “I look forward to getting to know people. I’m totally committed to being chair of the board.” FRAN OSTENDORF (fostendorf@ jewishallianceri.org) is the editor of Jewish Rhode Island.

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COMMUNITY

Program to examine LGBTQ+ triumphs and challenges in Israel ON JUNE 12, Israeli Hila Pe’er will give an inspiring Zoom presentation on the many achievements of the Israeli LGBTQ+ community and its goals for the future. The LGBTQ+ community has made great strides in Israel in the last few decades, including changing public opinion. The first small Pride Parade, in 1979, has grown to 100,000 marchers, and Tel Aviv is known worldwide for being gay-friendly. Pe’er is co-chair of The Aguda – The Association for LGBTQ+ Equality in Israel, which

is the nation’s pioneering LGBTQ+ organization. The Aguda is a national grassroots, volunteer-based, nonprofit human-rights group that strives for full equality for LGBTQ+ people and aspires to create a public climate of acceptance and respect. The free program, “The Challenges of the LGBTQ+ Community in Israel,” is the last in this season’s Israeli Culture Series, which is sponsored by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and usually takes place on the second Wednesday of

each month. However, this program, offered in conjunction with the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts, will take place on Sunday, June 12, at 4 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the program at JewishAllianceRI.org/ICS-June. For more information, contact Amit Moshe Oren at 401-421-4111 or AOren@jewishallianceri.org. Submitted by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island

Living history lesson ON WEDNESDAY, May 25, Providence Hebrew Day School’s fourth and fifth graders took a field trip to Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts. Students participated in a hands-on agricultural workshop where they had the opportunity to build a Virginia Rails fence and plant their own beans. After lunch, they headed off to see the village, which is a replica of

an 1830s New England rural town. They visited the blacksmith shop, the pottery shop, the old schoolhouse, a working farm, a saw mill, a bank and had an opportunity to see a typical New England home. They were able to compare their lives today to the lives of those who lived almost 200 years ago. Submitted by Providence Hebrew Day School

Food influencer Eitan Bernath has a new cookbook CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 them excited about food.” There’s a lot of work that goes into being a social media star and into creating the snappy 10- to 60-second videos that tend to go viral, such as his recipe for samosas or his video making ramen. Helping him bring it all together is a team that includes two culinary producers, a personal assistant, two video editors, a social media manager and a head of operations. Each week, Bernath releases about two dozen pieces of content across his social media platforms. “I’ve had to build a well-oiled machine – it’s a business,” Bernath says. “The fact that people are able to watch it and not even realize how much work goes into it means we’re doing our job.” Rachel Dolfi, the team’s executive culinary producer, was Bernath’s first hire in January 2021. “It was a big leap of faith working for someone so young,” she tells the New York Jewish Week. “But he really did everything in his power to make sure I felt comfortable, and understood that this was something extremely important to him, and that he was really

building a company that he believed in.” As someone whose first job is CEO of his own company, Bernath is also something of a trailblazer when it comes to imagining what a Gen-Z run workplace can look like. “It’s one thing to be able to create content and grow an audience; it’s another thing to run a successful company,” he says. “I’m really proud of the company I’ve grown. And I think, honestly, we’re really just getting started.” Bernath works from home. But not in the way we all have been doing it due to the pandemic, with makeshift couch desks and midday naps. He and his team work from his spacious penthouse in the Gramercy Park neighborhood of Manhattan, which also serves as his test kitchen and the headquarters of Eitan Productions. “My therapist was like ‘Are you sure this is a good idea?’ ” he jokes. But, according to him, it works. Bernath champions mental health awareness, therapy and work-life balance, though it’s unclear how much balance he allows himself, considering he lives in his office and works from his

bedroom. “I work basically a 24/7 job,” he says, reflecting on his 16-hour workdays and his inability to leave his apartment without inevitably running into a fan. “I love it, this is what I signed up for, but it’s very much not for everyone.” Still, his employees certainly appreciate his grace – it’s almost as if his newness to the position gives him an advantage. “I couldn’t ask for a better boss,” Dolfi says. “I’m not just saying that. Truly, it’s been an experience understanding that my time is also sacred and that he really respects that, and he’ll always ask questions about things he doesn’t know enough about.” “He is incredibly self-aware and incredibly emotionally intelligent,” said Olivia Anderson, Bernath’s other culinary producer. “As far as workplace dynamics go and being a really good manager, I’ve never had such a healthy relationship with someone. He’ll say little things that I felt like I didn’t learn how to do until I was in my late 20s. Even on hard days, there’s no passive aggression. It’s a very open, supportive work environment.” Bernath is also extremely

outward about his Judaism, frequently wearing his Star of David necklace in media appearances, though he didn’t comment on his particular religious observance or Jewish identity. “I really take being a Jew in the public eye very seriously, it comes with a big sense of responsibility,” he says. “Growing up in Bergen County, most people I knew were Jewish. But I realized that for most of my followers, I might be the only Jewish person they know and interact with.” “It can be stressful at times,” he adds. “I am very conscious of the fact that I’m representing Jewish people, and that and my actions will reflect how other people perceive all Jewish people.” He says he tries to ensure that his actions always reflect the Jewish values of kindness and tikkun olam, or repairing the world. Bernath’s pride in his Jewish identity may have reached its zenith this past December, when he was invited to the annual Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony at the White House. Bernath admitted to crying while listening to the blessings being recited

while in the presence of the president and vice president. “Just being able to be loud and proud and Jewish in the White House, celebrating a tradition I’ve grown up with my whole life, filled me with an indescribable sense of pride,” he says. Bernath’s next venture, his cookbook, may be his most traditional project yet, at least for a celebrity chef. “Eitan Eats the World” is a compendium of 85 “creative, accessible” recipes, including Israeli-Style Sesame Schnitzel with Herby Tomato Cucumber Salad and a Croque Monsieur Tuna Melt. Despite all the followers and the views and likes, Bernath says there’s nothing like a physical book that he can pick up and turn over in his hands, and slide onto a shelf next to all the books that helped him get here. “I’ve been dreaming of writing a cookbook my whole life,” he says. “Did I think it was going to happen when I was 19? No. But I have a treasure chest of recipes I’ve been saving that were a little too good to share. This is wildly exciting.”

22 | JUNE 2022

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Candidates for governor address hot-button issues at Alliance forum the General Assembly. he said. Human Services, Ashley “Our budgets reflect Dr. Munoz was adamant Kalus responded that she what matters to us,” he that, “The governor should wanted to create “a culture ROVIDENCE – On May 27, five gubernatorial said several times. be the state’s activist.” of customer service” and When asked about Secretary of State Gorbea implement something like candidates gathered at the Alliance’s Dwares his plans for combathighlighted her decades of the U.S. Department of Jewish Community Center to discuss poverty and ing high utility bills, government experience and Veterans Affairs’ Accounthe said he plans to use background in promoting ability and Whistleblower inequality in Rhode Island. The candidates offered their the state’s budget Protection Act. surplus for that. She differed solutions to the housing crisis, food insecurity, systemic ‘It’s not enough to just be sad Dr. Munoz from the other racism, education reform and rising utility bills. described growby anymore. People are still being candidates ing up poor and not endorsing experiencing income-based DEMOCRATS Gov. Dan State Council of Churches, killed, tortured and kept down utility bills. homelessness, and McKee, R.I. Secretary of told the audience, “the asked, “Why have All the State Nellie Gorbea, former options for the poor have by inequality, by complacency candidates said things not changed?” R.I. Secretary of State Matt decreased tremendously.” they support His answers freBrown and Dr. Luis Daniel She continued, “It’s not and by unjust systems.’ free meals for quently focused on Munoz, and Republican enough to just be sad schoolchildren the need to supAshley Kalus participated anymore. People are still and a state port the work of diversity in governance. in the forum, which was being killed, tortured and constitutional amendment already-existing commu“The best way to have moderated by David Veliz, kept down by inequality, by ensuring quality education. nity organizations. policies that truly address director of the Rhode Island complacency and by unjust The discussion between “We’re not using local the diversity of our state is Interfaith Coalition to systems.” the candidates was interresources enough, we’re by putting people in power Reduce Poverty. Governor McKee’s rupted numerous times by not supporting mutual-aid … that reflect the diversity In her opening remarks, remarks focused on the audience members, includorganizations that are conof our state,” she said. the Rev. Chontell Washstate’s budget and the need ing Paul Rianna Jr., an ducting rent-relief clinics,” Gorbea also promoted ington, of the Rhode Island for it to be approved by independent candidate for collaboration between governor, wearing a “Let’s government agencies and Go Brandon” sweatshirt, nonprofits. “We need to who shouted out to Govermarry the support services to very low-income housing, nor McKee, “You took jobs away!” He later added that for example,” she said. the jobs were taken from Brown said that state people who refused COVID government must “systemvaccines. atically and relentlessly” In his closing remarks, combat racial inequality Rabbi Jeffery Goldwasser in the state. He went on said, “There will be one to propose shutting down For more than 110 years we have been lending a Helping Hand winner in the gubernatorial polluters in low-income election, but we need all to members of the Rhode Island, Southeastern Massachusetts neighborhoods, additional of you to continue to work taxes on the highest earnand Nearby Connecticut Jewish Communities. toward solutions to address ers, getting private money the crisis that impoverishes out of health care, ensuring nearly one in seven Rhode abortion access and ending OUR MISSION CONTINUES… Islanders.” cash bail. “We are in a fight for our Our interest-free 3-year loans can be used for SARAH GREENLEAF lives with the fossil-fuel (sgreenleaf@ industry,” he said. many purposes including: jewishallianceri.org) is the When asked about proDigital Media Specialist moting economic security for the Jewish Alliance of Youth Summer Camps Vehicle Purchase or Repairs and upward mobility in Greater Rhode Island and the state and making sure writes for Jewish Rhode that people can access College Expenses Home Improvements Island. basic benefits through the R.I. Department of BY SARAH GREENLEAF

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PHDS program to honor ‘pillars’ of the school BY RUCHAMA SZENDRO

ROVIDENCE – The Providence Hebrew Day School’s Amudim Awards dinner will be held on

June 19 in the Victor and Gussie Baxt Social Hall at the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center. THIS YEAR, the school is celebrating the successful conclusion of a five-year building campaign. Under the stewardship of Rabbi Peretz Scheinerman and with a devoted team of lay leaders, major renovations to the school have been completed, including installation of a stateof-the-art science lab, energy-efficient windows, an HVAC system and a wheelchair-accessible entryway. In addition, security has been upgraded. PHDS will salute all the donors and volunteers, who, by virtue of their support for the school’s physical structure, have earned their place as “Amudim” (pillars) of Jewish dayschool education in Rhode Island. Also being honored on June 19 are Jeff and Marcie Ingber, who will receive the Community Service Award.

Jeff is a partner in Ahava Catering and Bubbie’s Market & Deli, both in Providence. Marcie coordinates the Louis & Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry, in Providence. Thanks to the Ingbers, Kosher food is more accessible in Rhode Island, both for purchase and for those who need a helping hand. The Ingbers’ volunteerism for the Providence Hebrew Day School goes back many years. Jeff has managed the PHDS Kosher Wine Room, baked pizzas for the PT pre-Passover fundraiser, and arranged Lag B’Omer barbecues and many other school events. Marcie has served both on the PHDS board and on the school’s Education Committee. The Ingbers’ generosity also extends to

several local organizations, including the Providence Community Kollel, Project Shoresh and Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael, in Boston. The couple has also opened their home to host classes and given their time to take students fishing. The Young Leadership Award for 2022 will be presented to Schabse and Aviva Chana Laks. Aviva is the daughter of David and Amy Kaufman, of Sharon, Massachusetts, who are longtime supporters of the school. Aviva is a 2012 graduate of the Providence Hebrew Day School/New England Academy of Torah. After graduating from NEAT as class valedictorian, Aviva studied in Israel for two years at the Tomer Devorah Seminary, Institute of Advanced Studies for Women. When she returned to America, she attended Touro College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science, with a minor in graphic design. Aviva sells her original Judaica papercuts and other artwork at AceArts.net. Aviva’s husband, Schabse, is a software

engineer at Google, working on Google Classroom, which is used by schools worldwide. He received the Microsoft MVP award from 2010 through 2018 for community contributions in the C# programming language. After hours, Schabse continues his IT work, as a volunteer for his synagogue and Jeff and Marcie Ingber. for a Kollel in Passaic, New Jersey. Schabse and Aviva live in West Hempstead, New York, with their two children. The awards program and dinner, on Sunday, June 19, at 5 p.m., at the Alliance’s Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, is open to the public and everyone is welcome. Cost is $65. To RSVP or to make a contribution in honor of the event, call the school at 3315327, ext. 21, or go to www.phdschool.org/ amudim. RUCHAMA SZENDRO lives in Providence. She is a member of the Amudim committee.

Aviva and Schabse Laks.

TOBI & ZAIDE TOMER GO TO THE BEACH!

Art and Dialogue by Kendall Krantz / Story by Amit Moshe Oren, Israeli Shaliach

24 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

JEWISH ALLIANCE OF GREATER RHODE ISLAND

ELEVENTH ANNUAL MEETING Thursday, June 16 | 7:00pm In-person at the Dwares JCC 401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence Installation of Harris Chorney, Incoming Chair of the Board Tribute to James Pious, Outgoing Chair of the Board Presentation of Leadership Awards Board Installations: Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island Jewish Federation Foundation Alliance Realty, Inc. Installing Officer: Rabbi Ethan Adler Reception to follow Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island 2022 - 2023 Proposed Slate of Board of Directors Chair Harris Chorney Vice Chairs Robert Landau, Community Development Richard Glucksman, Philanthropy Sara Miller-Paul, Communications William Krieger, Jewish Life & Learning Mara Ostro, Governance Treasurer Brauna Doidge Secretary Mara Ostro Board of Directors Jason Bazarsky Reza Breakstone Adam Cable Ryan Forman Susan Froehlich, Leadership Development Sharon Gaines Marisa Garber

Janet Goldman Sara Meirowitz Cara Mitnick, Community Relations Council Rabbi Preston Neimeiser, Rabbinical Representative Andrew Palan Avi Rosenstein Eric Shorr Richard Silverman Honorary Directors Melvin G. Alperin Alan G. Hassenfeld James Pious, Immediate Past Chair Adam Greenman, President & CEO 2022 - 2023 Jewish Federation Foundation Board

Richard Licht Michael Nulman Ralph Posner Jay Rosenstein Sally Rotenberg Robert Schloss Robert Sherwin, Vice Chair Herbert Stern Cheryl Greenfeld Teverow, Secretary Mindy Wachtenheim 2022 - 2023 Alliance Realty, Inc. Board Robert Stolzman, Chair Sharon Gaines, Vice Chair Marc Gertsacov Adam Greenman, President & CEO

Jamie Pious, Chair Mitzi Berkelhammer Harris Chorney, ex-officio Susan Leach DeBlasio Robin Engle Mark Feinstein Harold Foster Sharon Gaines David Hirsch Marilyn Kaplan, Treasurer

To RSVP, visit jewishallianceri.org/Annual-Meeting/. The Annual Meeting will be recorded and made available on the Alliance website in the days following the event.

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Tifereth Israel celebrates its centennial of her grandmother in 1930 a few times before she realized who it was. EW BEDFORD Her grandparents joined in the early 1920s, and, in –Tifereth September, her grandson Israel will be the fifth generation to become a Bar Mitzvah at Synagogue marked Tifereth Israel. Gross said her research its 100th anniversary showed many past presiwith a joyous three-day dents who were following in the footsteps of their fathers celebration in May. or grandfathers. Elliot Rosenfield, a past “IT’S AMAZING … for this president who attended community to still have such the centennial celebration, vibrancy,” said Judy Brown, said, “People who care and a longtime member, as were people who take advantage her parents. “And with such of the religious services, a sense of community, and and the social services, is dedication to Judaism, for what leads to a thriving 100 years, it’s just incredicongregation.” ble.” Another past president, Togetherness is what Robert Feingold, said he keeps a temple successhelped raise a half-million ful for 100 years, said Dr. dollars for the columns at Inside Tifereth Israel. Rahim Ighai, who has been a the temple that bear the member of the Conservative names of many past and building. temple since 1973. present members. But he “I finished Hebrew school “It’s the willingness to said his most important at the old synagogue, and accept and love each other,” experience as president was had my Bar Mitzvah there,” he said. working alongside Rabbi he said. “I’m a New Bedford Tifereth Israel President Bernard Glassman. resident, and it was the place Martin Levin said, “For gen“I learned a lot from him. to come practice your faith. erations, our clergy, teachHe was a very unbelievI wouldn’t ever go anywhere ers, leaders and volunteers ably wonderful man and I else.” have inspired and touched so still think of the lessons he In 1966, Tifereth Israel many families. Our Jewish taught me today,” Feingold built a new synagogue at 145 identity, religious obsersaid. Brownell Ave. Since 2009, vances, learning and incluOn Saturday, a service was half of the building has been sion, are the heart and soul held featuring Boston Globe rented to Our Sisters’ School, of our great synagogue.” TV critic Matthew Gilbert, an education program for The celebration, which who spoke about Judaism girls in grades five to eight. began on May 20 with a Kabin the media, followed by a In 2010, the 118-year-old balat Shabbat, also marked Kiddush luncheon. Ahavath Achim Synagogue, the temple’s return to an Orthodox congregation in-person events after in New Bedford, closed, ‘I think it’s very difficult which led several members almost two years. The Kabbalat Shabbat to join Tifereth Israel. featured a cocktail hour, Myra Goldberg had been in these times, because with entertainment from a member of Ahavath musicians Shelley Katsh Achim since she was five. this Jewish community and Friends, wine and “It was a transition,” she appetizers, and a lot of said of moving to Tifereth is shrinking.’ schmoozing. Israel. “But a wonderful Ruth Gross, who was one in the end.” Throughout the day, many on the planning committee Goldberg, who was on congregants reminisced for the celebration and has the planning committee, about former rabbis at been a member for 25 years, said, “It’s just a pleasure to Tifereth Israel. said that while researching see how many people have The original temple, at 42 Tifereth Israel’s history, she responded … and all the South Sixth St., was first led saw many family names of charitable things they’ve by Rabbi Nachman Arnoff, congregants who are still done.” followed by Rabbi Alexander active. Rabbi Raphael Kanter, who Burnstein and then Rabbi The planning commithas been at Tifereth Israel Bernard Ziskind, who served tee organized a historical for 25 years, said, “When I the congregation for 40 exhibit about the temple, came here, I never dreamed years. which will be on display in I would be here to see it “Rabbi Ziskind was a man the lobby for a few months. turn 100. I’m excited to see of his word, he didn’t say It features an oral history everyone returning for the one thing and do something collection, a digital picture festivities.” else,” Ighai recalled. gallery and artifacts. One longtime member Louis Silverstein, who has Helen Hull, who was also of the congregation, Ruth been a member of the temple on the planning committee, Meltz, 102, from Fairhaven, since 1937, remembered said she walked by a photo Massachusetts, has actually attending services at the old BY SETH CHITWOOD

lived longer than the temple. “I never thought I would be here for this,” Meltz said. “I have many memories and it’s all coming back now. I’m happy our synagogue made it to today.” On Sunday afternoon, there was a community celebration geared toward younger congregants. The event featured food from Ella’s Wood Burning Mobile Oven, local musicians Stan Sherman, Gary Brown, Steve Mazza, Seth Asser, Nathaniel Schudrich, Dan Schwartz and the Alef Beats, a centennial scavenger hunt, a rock-climbing wall, an ice cream truck, a silent auction and art and crafts projects. “This whole weekend was a little bit like planning for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah,” said Eve Sky, vice president of the temple’s board. She added, “With the help of all of our volunteers, the whole weekend has been wonderful.” Sky said New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell was among the officials who issued proclamations to mark the occasion. But, in addition to the joy, a few congregants worried about whether Tifereth Israel would still be here in another 100 years. Patty Rosenfield said younger generations are underrepresented among the temple’s 450 families. “I think it’s very difficult in these times, because this Jewish community is shrink-

ing,” said Rosenfield, who has been with the temple for 50 years. “The Jewish population is decreasing significantly here,” echoed Scott Lima, who represents Ward Five in the New Bedford City Council and who attended the celebration with his son. Lima grew up in the neighborhood and has had several friends who belonged to the temple over the years. “The vast majority of my friends that I grew up with don’t live here anymore. They’ve moved away,” he said. Lima said active participation as well as activities and opportunities for youth are key to a temple’s continued success. “The youth are the ones that are going to be around,” he said. And Tifereth Israel is off to a good start on its next 100 years. “We have five new families, and they signed up for the Hebrew school for next year with little children,” Hull said. “Maybe they will be part of the group thinking of us when celebrating 150.” SETH CHITWOOD (www. sethchitwood.com), of Barrington, is a features reporter for The StandardTimes, in New Bedford. He is also the creative director of the award-winning Angelwood Pictures production company.

26 | JUNE 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

Embattled democracy, social media, conspiracy theories: Bret Stephens speaks at JCC BY FRAN OSTENDORF

current position on the global stage, and the implications for Jews. Among his points:

PROVIDENCE – On May 19, New York Times opinion columnist Bret Stephens helped reopen Misplaced mission in the the JCC to in-person prodeveloping world?: “In gramming for the first time the ’90s, our role was to help in more than two years when China develop. We simply he spoke on “A Changing assumed that as China World: The Impact on Jewish became richer, it would move Communities.” Close to 150 people gathered in the social hall at the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center to hear Stephens speak, while others watched the livestream of the rescheduled Annual Campaign event. During the program, Stephens discussed a range of issues that have Bret Stephens with DeeDee Witman led to the United States’ and Adam Greenman.

in the direction of becoming a freer country. So we moved toward helping a dictatorship become richer.” Stephens said we did the same thing with Russia. “Anyone who knew where [Vladimir] Putin came from should have known something was amiss.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: He has crystalized the concepts of freedom and self-determination, some of the core ideas of Judaism. And he has galvanized public opinion. Also, “We admire the courage of an underdog,” Stephens said. Conspiracy theories: After 9/11, it was a stunning fact that a majority of the population was willing to believe the

Bret Stephens speaks at the JCC May 19. conspiracy theory that it was an inside job, he said. Social media turned out to be the perfect way to spread conspiracy theories. “We thought it was a tool of democracy, but it was being used as an algorithm of outrage, radicalizing people’s ideas and creating coalitions of extremism,” he said. This was all happening

PHOTOS | GLENN OSMUNDSON

almost without us noticing. Suddenly, out of the blue came a politician who nobody took seriously, but he was able to seize the reins of democracy – while many bewildered Americans wondered how that was possible. “When conspiracy theories are the way people think about the world, then that CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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COMMUNITY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 region, and that stands with us when we need is very concerning,” Stephens said: If people them,” Stephens said. believe conspiracy theories about other groups, they are more likely to believe them about Jews too. He explained that there is a conspiracy theory right now, identical to one 150 years ago, that Jews are swindlers and imposters. It’s called antisemitism because Jews weren’t considered European – they were Semites and they were swindlers. Stephens said anti-Zionism is a conspiracy theory, too, one that states that Jews aren’t from Israel and are swindling Palestinians out of their land. Israel and the United States: “The best decision the United States has made about Israel has been to stand up for a small embattled democracy that shared our values and is our only reliable ally in the

The Jewish community: “Threats to Jews in this country remain profound and serious,” he said. When you see students focus their outrage on Israel rather than on what’s happening in Ukraine or elsewhere, it’s a problem for democracy, he said. Our young people “have to be courageous” when they face antisemitism or anti-Zionism, he said. “You have to be willing to speak out. You have to be able to name things for what they are. Stand up. It’s still a free country. Don’t be afraid.” There was a spirited question-and-answer session at the end of the presentation, which was moderated by Torey Malatia, president, CEO and general manager of

The Public’s Radio. The evening began with a reception at the Providence home of DeeDee Witman, chair of the campaign event host committee. At the reception, close to 60 Alliance major donors and board members, along with community leaders, had the opportunity to mingle with Stephens and ask him questions ahead of his presentation. The event had originally been scheduled for October 2021, but concerns over COVID19 forced it to be rescheduled. A recording of the presentation is available online until June 19. Go to https://www. jewishallianceri.org/ did-you-miss-the-bretstephens-event.

Torey Malatia, left , with Bret Stephens during the question-and-answer session.

FRAN OSTENDORF (fostendorf@ jewishallianceri.org) is the editor of Jewish Rhode Island.

Alan Litwin and Marianne Litwin and Lezli Pious enjoy the reception before program.

THE FOUNDATION FOR RHODE ISLAND DAY SCHOOLS 90%Corporate Tax Credits for Donations to Scholarship Organizations Rhode Island corporations may receive 90% state tax credits (plus Federal tax deductions) for donations that benefit low-income students. Since 2006, RI businesses may donate funds to organizations (Scholarship Granting Organizations—SGOs) that provide low-income students with tuition assistance grants to attend qualified nonpublic schools. The Foundation for Rhode Island Day Schools is the SGO that has been established to enable corporations to support Jewish day schools in Rhode Island. · Participation in this program is highly competitive, so applications are accepted on a “first come, first served” basis and are subject to a drawing. · Applications must be received by the State no earlier than July 1. Applications prepared in June are usually held by this SGO for submission on July 1. Those received or postmarked after this date will probably NOT arrive on time and be deemed ineligible by the Division of Taxation. · Qualifying businesses are: C-Corps, S-Corps, LLCs, and LLPs. For more information, please contact Lawrence Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org or 401.421.4111 ext. 179, or visit Rhode Island Division of Taxation: http://www.tax.ri.gov/Credits/index.php.

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WAEF gives grants to groups in Rhode Island, Israel, Ukraine BY CLAIRE UZIEL THE WOMEN’S Alliance Endowment Fund (WAEF) has awarded grants totaling $8,800 to the following programs for 2022:

RHODE ISLAND Camp JORI: professional

development/staff training to support campers’ mental-health needs, $1,000

Jewish Community Day School: professional development about gender diversity, $1,000

Providence Hebrew Day School/New England Academy of Torah: social-emotional learning program for students, $1,000

University of Rhode Island Hillel: women’s leadership,

engagement and programming student intern, $1,000

ISRAEL Ethiopian National Project:

SPACE (School Performance and Community Empower-

ment), a program for adolescent girls, $1,500

Beit Ruth Educational and Therapeutic Village: to build social-emotional wellness and resilience in at-risk teenage girls, $800

ELI, Israel association for child protection: group therapy for sexually abused girls, $800

Haifa Rape Crisis Center: sexual-trauma support group for women, $800

UKRAINE JDC (American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee): safeguarding Ukraine’s neediest Jews, $900 (in addition to specific fundraising by WAEF)

Since 1997, WAEF has allocated nearly $136,000 to diverse organizations serving women and children in Rhode Island and overseas communities. The 2022 recipients were chosen at a meeting on May 4. WAEF currently has more than 100 members, who each contributed $1,000 to join.

The fund is invested with the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s endowment and relies on donations from new members to increase the income available to distribute each year. Gifting a WAEF membership is a wonderful way to introduce adult children and grandchildren to community philanthropy. If you are interested in becoming a member or gifting a membership, contact Sara Masri, chief development officer, at 401-4214111, ext. 223, or endowment@ jewishallianceri.org. CLAIRE UZIEL (cuziel@ jewishallianceri.org) is the endowment/campaign operations manager at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

LAND

MEMBERS OF THE UNIVERSITY of Rhode Island Class of 2022 stopped by URI Hillel on their way to the commencement ceremony on May 22 (left to right): Grace Donovan, Eliana Berger, Carly Greenblatt, Hillel Executive Director Amy Olson, Bella Alssid, Mackenzie Pontonio and Madi Agresti.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

OBITUARIES Rachael Abrams, 95

SEATTLE, WASH. – Rachael Abrams passed away peacefully on May 10, 2022, in Seattle. She was the beloved wife of the late Jordan Abrams. Rachael was born in Providence on April 29, 1927, to the late Abraham and Bessie (Yellen) Allen. She lived in Providence and Cranston, and spent many winters on Singer Island, Florida, before moving to Seattle in 2015. Rachael attended the University of Rhode Island. She was a lifetime member of Hadassah and she served as vice president of the sisterhood of The Cranston Jewish Center. She managed the fine jewelry department at Jordan Marsh for over 21 years. Rachael was also a longtime member of Potowamut Golf Club where she excelled at the tee. Her other hobbies consisted of duplicate bridge, book club, dancing as well as singing and teaching Yiddish to all interested parties. She was the devoted mother of Cheryl Levy and her husband Robert of Kent, Washington, and the late Jeffrey Abrams. She was the dear sister of the late Morris, David and Morton Allen. She was the loving grandmother of Eric Levy, Jennifer Levy Katz and her husband Aaron and great-grandmother of Greta Katz. She was also a loving aunt to many nieces, nephews and cousins. Contributions in her mem-

ory can be made to Kline Galland Home, 7500 Seward Park Ave. S., Seattle, WA. 98118.

Sumner Alpert, 95

SARASOTA, FLA. – Sumner Alpert, formerly of Fall River, passed away on April 10 in Sarasota. He was the son of Maurice Alpert of Fall River and Lillian Silverman of Providence. He graduated from BMC Durfee High School in Fall River in 1943. His older brother Stanley was killed in WWII. Mr. Alpert attended Brown University for one year, then enlisted in the Navy in 1944, training in communications at Sampson Naval Station. He shipped out from Norfolk, Virginia, to Trinidad, attaining the rank of Radioman Third Class. He was discharged in 1946. Mr. Alpert returned to Brown and graduated with the Class of ’49. There he met Arline Goodman who became his wife in 1950 following her graduation from Pembroke. They were married for 59 years until Arline’s passing in 2009. They participated in nearly every commencement weekend at Brown, with Mr. Alpert proudly walking down College Hill holding the Class of ’49 banner while he was class president for five years. He worked in the family wholesale candy and tobacco business until buying the mill housing the business

and starting Alpert’s Storage Center. After nine years, he sold the business and retired permanently. In addition to his successful career, Mr. Alpert was an active member of Temple Beth El, Fall River, serving on its board for 25 years. He was also an avid tennis player and golfer, and in 2002, won the July Invitational Tournament. He also played saxophone and enjoyed all types of music. After his wife Arline died, Mr. Alpert moved to Sarasota as his primary residence. He met his companion Joyce Rosenthal and enjoyed many activities together including the Sarasota Jazz Club, SILL lectures, theatre, ballet, symphony, and volunteering at many local events. He was also active in the Jewish War Veterans of Sarasota. They also spent summers in Newport. Sumner is survived by his four children Sherry Alpert (Jay Foley) of Canton, Massachusetts, Sandra Pankiw of Cranston (Mitchell Pankiw-deceased), Bernard Alpert of Fall River, Miriam (Mimi) Woodman (Michael Woodman) of Sudbury, Massachusetts, and grandchildren Alexander Pankiw (deceased), of Cleveland, Ohio, Rachel Pankiw of Cranston, Lauren Pankiw (Monti Rivera) of Springfield, Massachusetts, Aaron Louison (Lisa-Marie Louison) of Mansfield, Massachusetts, and Nina Louison (Nachi Pendse) of La Jolla, California. Donations may be made in his memory to Temple Beth El, 385 High St., Fall River, MA 02720, or Tidewell Sarasota Hospice House, 5957 Rand Road, Sarasota, FL 34238.

Howard Flamer, 94

ATTLEBORO, MASS. – Howard Sidney Flamer, of Attleboro, passed away on April 24, 2022. He was the beloved husband of the late Kayla (Jagolinzer) Flamer. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on October 17, 1927, he was the son of the late Sidney and Pearl (Schaeffer) Flamer. He had resided in Attleboro since 2015, previously living in Pawtucket and Jupiter, Florida. Howard attended Providence College and was employed by Capitol Wallpaper and Paints in Pawtucket until he opened his own

business, Wallpaper Manor, in Attleboro. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was a member of the Jewish War Veterans. He was also a member of Touro Fraternal Association and the Barney Merry Masonic Lodge. Howard is survived by his daughter, Anita (Mark) Steiman of Attleboro and his son, Marc Flamer of Boynton Beach, Florida. He was the brother of Miriam Hochman of West Palm Beach, Florida and Martin (Linda) Flamer of Boynton Beach. He was the loving Papa of Rachel (Oded), Sara (CJ), Jolie (Bob), Ryan, Kyle (Edriz) and Kalev and the adoring great-grandfather of John, Allie, Natalia, Mila, Bodie and Marley. Contributions may be made to Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight Hub, P.O. Box 28132, Providence, RI 02908-3700 or your favorite charity.

Harriet Fletcher, 85

DARTMOUTH, MASS. – Harriet J. (Goldberg) Fletcher, of Dartmouth, passed away April 23, 2022, at St. Luke’s Hospital, New Bedford, Massachusetts. She was the loving wife of Lawrence Fletcher, with whom she shared over 61 years of marriage. Born in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Irene (Barbrow) Goldberg. Harriet earned a bachelor’s degree from Farleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey. She worked as an administrative assistant for the Genesco Company in New York City for several years and later worked as a substitute teacher in the New Bedford School system. A voracious reader, who could be found picking out a new book every few weeks. She was an extremely talented artist and had many beautiful paintings hanging in her family’s homes. The epitome of sophistication, Harriet was always impeccably dressed and loved to keep up on the latest fashions. She loved traveling with her husband, having the opportunity to visit many countries. Harriet had a great zest for life. She faced every one of life’s moments with a positive attitude and was a great role model to her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. In

addition to her husband, survivors include her two children, Anne Weiner and her husband, Philip, of Norton, Massachusetts, and Dr. James Fletcher and his wife, Robin, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; her three granddaughters, Larissa Weiner and her wife, Abi, of Plainville, Massachusetts; Stefanie Walsh and her husband, Daniel, of Cumberland and Jessica R. Fletcher of Baton Rouge; her three great-grandchildren, Ezra Weiner, Chase and Dallas Walsh and several nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Arthur Goldberg and great-grandmother of the late Jeremy Weiner. Donations can be made to a charity of your choosing.

Doris Gandelman, 95

GREENVILLE, R.I. – Doris Gandelman died May 19, 2022, at Stillwater Nursing Home in Greenville. She was the beloved wife of the late Nelson Gandelman. Born in Fall River and raised in Providence, the daughter of the late Emil and Sonia (Ostroff) Bieder, she had lived in Greenville for nine years, previously living in Cranston for 37 years, then Delray Beach, Florida, for 24 years. A graduate of Hope High, she attended the University of Rhode Island for three years. She was an owner of the former People’s Department Store in Providence, the family business for many decades. She was the devoted mother of Alan Gandelman and his wife, Claudia, of Johnston; Bruce Gandelman and his wife, Terry, of Newport; Beth Gandelman of Salisbury, Massachusetts; and daughter-in-law Nancy Golub of Pikesville, Maryland. She was the dear sister of the late Bernie Bieder, formerly of Warwick. She was the best friend for more than 50 years to Sheila Miller, Shirley Konicov, Pearl Kleinman and Eleanor Ross. Doris was an avid tennis player until the age of 81, active in Women’s American ORT, Hadassah and former member of Temple Sinai sisterhood in Cranston. She loved her miniature Schnauzer, Huckleberry, who helped her make the transition from Rhode Island to Florida. Contributions in her memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association of RI, 245

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

OBITUARIES Waterman St., Providence, RI 02906, or to Hadassah, ORT or the organization of your choice.

Andrew Harnick, 33

WEST WARWICK, R.I. – Andrew L. Harnick, of West Warwick, died May 26, 2022. The son of Drs. Harris and Phyllis (Freilich) Harnick, Andrew is survived by his beloved daughter Brody, brother Norman, and Norman’s wife, Michelle. He is also survived by his very special friend, Jessica Dercole. He loved his daughter Brody more than anything in the world and his favorite times were those spent with her. Andrew was intelligent, funny, loving and, above allelse, kind and caring to everyone who knew him; traits shared by Brody. He loved and cared for animals and enjoyed hiking and going to the beach with his dog Rambo. He loved his extended family, friends and his dogs. His smile and his sense of fun were infectious and he brought joy to all those he loved. Andrew enjoyed sports and was an avid fan of the Celtics, Patriots and Red Sox. Contribution may be made to an animal rescue organization or to a charity of your choice.

Leona Malkin, 95

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Leona Malkin passed away on May 5, 2022, at her home. She lived a long life filled with the love of family and friends. A lifelong resident of Providence, she was the eldest daughter of the late Clara (Finklestein) and Ralph Shuster. She was the loving sister of Mathew Shuster and his wife, Deborah, of Warwick, Grace Goldberg of Providence, and the late Adele Zuckerman of Providence. Leona leaves behind her daughter Fonda Tenenbaum of Houston, Texas, and her son, David Malkin, and his wife, Rose of Providence. Leona is also survived by the greatest joys of her life, her four grandchildren, Sam and Jack Malkin, Rachel Tenenbaum, Cayla and Stephen Rutchik, her two great-grandsons, Noah and Brandon Rutchik, and many loving nieces and nephews. She was a lifelong admirer of style and beautiful objects, flowers, good bargains and good food. In addition to being an avid bridge player, Leona enjoyed many adventures with

her group of loving and loyal friends. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA.

Shirley Minkin, 84

WARWICK, R.I. – Shirley (Sharpstein) Minkin, of Warwick, passed away May 29, 2022, at Rhode Island Hospital after a brief illness. She was predeceased by her husband, Gerald Minkin and daughter, Etha Minkin. Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Samuel and Sarah (Covinsky) Sharpstein, she was a graduate of Hope High School, Class of 1957. Shirley worked at Atlantic Mills for several years before starting a family and raising her three children. A longtime member of the Providence/ Warwick Emblem Club #1, Shirley enjoyed doing searcha-word and Jumble puzzles while listening to a Red Sox game or WPRO Talk Radio. She enjoyed having lunch every Friday at Temple Sinai, socializing with friends at her apartment complex and watching Wheel-of-Fortune and Jeopardy. Survivors include: two children, Harvey Minkin and his wife Fatima Silva-Minkin of Hudson, New Hampshire and Ronda Wilk and her husband, Keith, of Lincoln; two granddaughters, Sarah Chaves and Christina Wilk; one great-grandson, Ayden Chaves; brother-in-law, Earl Minkin; one niece; one nephew and one great-nephew.

Marcia Revzin, 94

CANTON, MASS. – Marcia (Korsun) Revzin, age 94, of Canton, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on May 14, 2022, at her residence. She was the wife of the late Stanley A. Revzin. Born in New York, New York, the daughter of the late Morris and Pearl (Warren) Korsun, she lived in North Dartmouth for 50 years prior to moving to Canton in 2014. A graduate of New Utrecht High School in Brooklyn, she received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Brooklyn College. In addition to being a homemaker, she was an active member of the

community, holding many volunteer and board positions at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue and the Jewish Federation of New Bedford. She also held memberships with the Sisterhoods of Ahavath Achim and Tifereth Israel Synagogue and the New Bedford Jewish Convalescent Home. She was most proud of her work chairing the scholarship fund of the New Bedford Chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women for many decades. She is survived by two sons: Marc W. Revzin and his partner, Karen, of Brookline, Massachusetts, and Bruce D. Revzin and his wife, Robin, of Needham, Massachusetts; one brother Donald Korsun of New York, New York and two grandchildren Aaron Revzin of Needham and Rebecca Revzin of Milford, Connecticut.

Warner in Auckland, New Zealand. Merril was a longtime resident of Springfield, Massachusetts, where he worked as a firefighter for 29 years and, later, a self-employed plumber. He had many loyal customers and never stopped giving great plumbing advice even after he retired. He was passionate about keeping up with current events and read two papers daily. Annie and Merril loved to travel and take long walks

on East Beach. He is survived by his daughter Jill Wasserman, two granddaughters Sonja and Gwen Luvara, nephew Stephen Thal, cousin Amy Kligerman, and his dear friend Thomas Sullivan. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Tomaquag Museum at 390 A Summit Road, Exeter, RI. 02822 or www.tomaquagmuseum.org.

Lillian Waldman, 98

WARWICK, R.I. – Lillian Waldman,, 98, passed away on May 29, 2022, at Tamarisk Assisted Living. She was the beloved wife of the late Herman (Leonard) Waldman. Born in Providence, a daughter of the late David and Sadie (Trutt) Robinson, she had lived in Warwick since 2018, previously living in Narragansett and Providence. Lillian was a former member of Congregation Beth David. She was the devoted mother of Susan Waldman Fixman and her husband, Michael, and Richard Waldman and his wife, Meryl. She was the dear sister of Pauline Namerow. She was proudest of her loving grandchildren Tracy, Lori, Randy and Scott (Danielle) and cherished great-grandchild, Russell, who was the light of her life. A special thanks to the staff of Tamarisk for their kind and loving care. Contributions in her memory may be made to Tamarisk, 3 Shalom Dr., Warwick, RI 02886.

Merril Wasserman, 103

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Merril Wasserman passed away May 13, 2022, at Tockwotton in East Providence. He is predeceased by his parents Edward Wasserman and Lena Zarr Wasserman, his sister Edythe Wasserman Thal, his wife Annie Warner Wasserman, and companion Ann Petlock. As a young man he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps. He later joined the Army and served in WWII. While he served in the South Pacific he met his wife Annie

Certified by the Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island Jacquelyn Aubuchon, Funeral Director

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