November 2022

The Voice of Greater Rhode Island’s Jewish Community

NOVEMBER 2022 | HESHVAN/KISLEV 5783

JEWISHRHODY.ORG

Sharing the light Now more than ever

Dick Shapiro offers up special wisdom

Comfort foods warm up fall menus

Karps take us along on an adventure

2 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

NOVEMBER 20 | 7:30PM 2023 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN

Thank You event JUJU CHANG

AN EVENING WITH

JUJU CHANG Emmy Award-Winning Co-Anchor of ABC News' Nightline

VISIT

JewishAllianceRI.org/juju-chang/ TO SAVE YOUR SEAT!

NOVEMBER 2022 | 3

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

Silence is just not acceptable TWO YEARS AGO – just before the 2020 election – I wrote a column expressing hope that the country would settle down and come together after the vote was counted. I had no idea that we’d still be talking about that election as we head toward the midterms in 2022.

When you read this column, you may have already voted, or know the outcome of the election.

Let’s hope that this time we all accept the results and move on.

Unfortunately, I’m much more pessimistic about the country’s ability to do so now.

In the past two years, we have seen vicious demonstrations, terrible language, misinformation, more open hostility toward one another and a politicization of issues large and small.

It seems that if we disagree with our neighbors, we can no longer have a civil discussion that doesn’t become politicized.

How are we ever going to move forward as a country when the left and right – and sometimes those in between – insist on arguing, blaming one another and being so suspicious?

It’s maddening.

Where is the middle ground?

Out of this deep mistrust and hostility, old forms of hatred have reared their ugly heads. Again. It has been a pattern throughout history. When the opposition becomes the enemy,

you start to hear more and more people looking for someone to blame for their misfortunes, grievances or perceived mistreatment.

If you follow the news at all – and you should try to stay informed, using as many different sources as possible – you know that antisemitism is on the rise.

Again.

Groups previously in the shadows now feel empowered to stand in plain sight with disrespectful and despicable messages. Some celebrities and politicians have decided that they need to express opinions that used to be taboo to mass audiences through social media. Educated people use their skills to “disprove” history. Too many simply stay silent while acts of antisemitism increase on college campuses. It’s all bubbling to the surface. Again.

Of course, a few people are condemning this hate.

But are these the right people? Are these voices loud enough? And why aren’t more of our leaders speaking out? Where is the chorus of elected officials standing up for the rights of the minority?

Calling out lies, hatred and antisemitism are the kinds of things leaders do.

That’s what defines a leader in the United States of America.

We need to elect people who are willing to lead; who are willing to say enough is enough; who are willing to shut down hatred.

We need to educate ourselves and our neighbors so more people know how to respond to misinformation and hatred – and do so.

Those of us in the Jewish community cannot be the only ones to say this has to stop. Hatred and antisemitism has become so mainstream that the average person no longer feels it necessary to step up to say it’s wrong and has to stop.

This is really not a political issue. This is simply about doing what is right.

What is right never changes.

If we want a better world, then hate cannot be a part of it. We have to remain engaged. We have to vote. We have to speak up. We have to talk to each other in a civil manner. We have to listen.

We have to lead.

We owe this to our friends, our neighbors, our community and our children.

Standing up and speaking out, supporting one another and the institutions and traditions that bind us, getting involved and taking the lead – these are the actions that will keep hatred from dragging all of us down.

Silence is just not acceptable.

Fran Ostendorf, Editor

D'VAR TORAH 5 | CALENDAR 6 | FOOD 8 | COMMUNITY VOICES 10 | OPINION 14 CAKE COMPETITION 16 | COMMUNITY 18 | BUSINESS 27 | OBITUARIES 29

JEWISH RHODE ISL AND

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

VOLUME XXIX, ISSUE XII 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.

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

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.

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land. 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.

ON THE COVER: Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman lights the Shabbat

candles during Sukkot service at Temple Habonim in Barrington.

PHOTO | ADINA DAVIES

4 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

UP FRONT

Dick Shapiro and his trusty Volvo.

PHOTO | ROBERT ISENBERG

For 92 years, business owner Dick Shapiro has done things his way

BY ROBERT ISENBERG

D

ick Shapiro doesn’t have a smartphone. He doesn’t have a computer, which makes his desk look strangely empty. His company,

East Greenwich-based Special Delivery, distributes periodicals across Rhode Island, but it has neither a website nor a social media presence.

SHAPIRO RUNS MOST of his business through a landline, using a telephone shaped like Mickey Mouse.

Above all, Shapiro dislikes email.

“In my mind, email is giving somebody a readymade excuse to tell you, ‘Oh, gee, I didn’t get your email, or I would’ve done what you asked me to do,’ ” says Shapiro. “You gave them the excuse to lie to you.”

Shapiro is 92 years old, and he has a special relationship with Jewish Rhode Island: His company has delivered the newspaper for the past 10

years. When you see issues of Jewish Rhode Island stacked up at a supermarket or coffee shop, Shapiro is likely the man who deposited them.

On delivery days, Shapiro fills his trunk with bundles of Providence Monthly, Truck and Equipment Post and, yes, Jewish Rhode Island. He contracts with other drivers for some distribution, but he also personally navigates the state in his 27-year-old Volvo station wagon, ping-ponging from one vestibule to another.

“I like doing it!” Shapiro

proclaims. “Like any business, you will run into problems. And not all problems can be solved – boom! – just like that. But when you fill up your station wagon full of these magazines, and it’s right up to the roof, and five or six hours later, it’s empty because you delivered it all, there’s a sense of accomplishment.”

Not surprisingly, Shapiro had a paper route when he was 12. He grew up in Mount Vernon, New York, where he delivered the Mount Vernon Daily Argus. His father and uncle also worked for distribution companies.

Shapiro’s first real job was checking the newsstand stock in New York City subway stations.

He went on to drop out of college and work a number of different jobs.

Sometime in the 1970s – he can’t remember exactly what year – Shapiro was invited to interview for a circula-

tion manager position at the National Enquirer, the weekly tabloid based in New York City.

But Shapiro didn’t care for the Enquirer, and he bluntly said so.

“I just told them what I really thought and criticized much of what they were doing,” he recalled.

To his surprise, the Enquirer offered him the job, even after he asked for a salary that was twice what he’d ever earned.

“They said, ‘Fine, you start tomorrow morning.’ They were looking for someone who wanted to do things differently.”

During the one year he worked for the Enquirer, Shapiro says he increased circulation from 1 million copies a week to 2 million.

The numbers might have continued to climb, but Shapiro says the company made a “morally unacceptable” demand, and he quit.

“I had come to realize that I was going to have to turn into the kind of person I don’t wish to be, and the money was unimportant,” he says, though he declined to explain what the demand was.

Morals and ethics have guided many of Shapiro’s decisions over the decades.

He rattles off the names of many different employers, including Pines Publications, Simon & Schuster, the record label Golden Records and his own label, Simon Says, which was purchased

by ABC Paramount. In each anecdote, Shapiro faces combative managers, bad contracts, budget fiascos, stiffed raises and his own dramatic resignations. In Shapiro’s telling, corporate greed and impersonal business practices drove him out.

“I was very bothered by what I saw happening in the publishing business, being CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

NOVEMBER 2022 | 5

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

As we age, our spiritual lives can grow

D’ VA

IN PARASHAH Lech Lecha, Abraham is invited by God to leave his country, his homeland, the city of his birth, to travel into the unknown and begin a new nation and religion. Not so unusual – until we read that he was 75 years old at the time.

Most of us would shudder at making such a momentous move at that age; by then, we are settled and have collected enough clutter that closing up a house becomes a monumental task. And yet, Abraham is not only being asked to travel long distances, but also to begin a whole new chapter, create a whole new tribe and a whole new way of interacting in the world from a spiritual perspective.

For too many of us, any move that we make at age 75 is not so adventurous; it is usually to downsize or move into a condo so that the tasks of keeping up a house and yard are removed, or we move into an independent or assisted-living facility because we want more support than living in our own homes can provide.

But I would posit that we can look to the elderly Abraham as a role model from whom we can learn how to still connect to the world.

R

Abraham’s physical journey is mirrored by his spiritual journey. As he travels and begins to settle into his new homeland, his relationship with God deepens. His spiritual life expands and becomes a much more significant facet of who he is.

His spirituality is not hampered or limited by his age; in fact, being older and having lived a full life before he was ready to RABBI ANDREA take on the task that God assigned GOUZE him was what allowed his religious identity to take root and blossom.

As we get older, our life experiences, our psycho-emotional maturity and our willingness to grapple with the existential questions of purpose, connection and meaning allow for a fuller and richer spiritual life.

As we move into the latter stages of life, many of our experiences bring these questions to the forefront.

Grief and bereavement for a loved one, whether it be a spouse or friend, can create understanding of our need for connection – thinking about the meaning of life and a spiritual outlook, or being part of a spiritual or religious

TO R A H

community, can help alleviate a sense of loss and loneliness by bringing comfort and consolation.

Illness can also raise the same issues, and can prompt us to do a life review so that we can acknowledge and appreciate our contributions.

A life review is a spiritual practice that can only happen at the end of a life. In two weeks, we will be reading about the death of Sarah, but the parashah is titled, Chayei Sarah (the Life of Sarah), teaching us that one can only know about a person’s whole life after they have died, because up until then, there is always the possibility and opportunity for growth and contribution.

‘May we always be willing to be open to the fullness of all that life can teach us’ As older adults, most of us no longer work in our careers.

For many of us, our identity is connected to our roles in society and, when we retire, we can lose that sense of self, of purpose and of meaning.

But, like Abraham, we can look to new vistas and opportunities to develop a different way of being in the world.

We can volunteer and gain a sense of satisfaction, we can spend more time with family and friends and deepen those relationships, or we can find other ways to appreciate the world and realize that we are more than just what our job identity was. We can explore new hobbies and take on adventures that we did not have time for during our younger years because of our job responsibilities.

All of us are spiritual.

For some, that is exhibited through a connection with a religious community and God; for others, our spiritual selves are nourished through a sense of wholeness and connection to nature, to music, to each other.

Each of us, as human beings, will find our own path through life that helps to bring a sense of belonging, fulfillment and purpose. As we age, even as our physical selves might become more limited, our spiritual lives can become richer as long as we are open to the possibilities and engage with the world in an honest and spiritual way.

May we always be willing to be open to the fullness of all that life can teach us, as a result of both the negative and the positive. And may we be open to the wisdom that our life experiences can teach us so that we live spiritually rich lives, no matter our age.

RABBI ANDREA M. GOUZE is the spiritual leader at Temple Beth Emunah in Stoughton, Massachusetts, and is the director of Spiritual Care at New England Sinai Hospital.

Candle lighting times November 2022

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Nov 6

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 taken over by big money-making companies and harming the industry that I grew up in,” he says. “That really bothered me and was a major factor in me wanting to get away from what I was doing. I sort of grew up feeling if I tell somebody something, that’s the truth. And I found that that wasn’t true, dealing with big companies.”

Shapiro’s journey to Rhode Island was convoluted, involving a distribution company, an unexpected profit margin and a lawsuit. He had an apartment in Boston for years, but he knew nothing about the Ocean State. Nevertheless, in 1982, he relocated with his wife, Joyce, an English-born photographer.

Mostly, he says, he wanted to escape from the rat race.

“I knew that no one knew where Rhode Island was, so it was a good place to go,” Shapiro says with one of his characteristic guffaws.

The couple first rented a house in North Kingstown,

and they felt so comfortable there that they bought the place.

“It was very good for me in a number of ways. It was good for my marriage. I was home every night now; no more traveling. My wife and I had a wonderful time, almost like a second honeymoon.

We went to inspect the state of Rhode Island. We were out every night, going to different restaurants.”

In Rhode Island, the Shapiros felt true stability. They settled in and raised two sons, Peter and Michael.

In the early ’90s, Shapiro made a decision that would shape the rest of his career.

By that time, he was running his own publishing company and helping to publish a magazine called TV Jr. The magazine emulated TV Guide, but the younger audience was lukewarm, and the title only survived a few months.

Then one day, Shapiro learned that the magazine’s distributor was planning to retire. Shapiro made an offer,

and in 1994 he became the owner of Special Delivery.

“I started [in] the business that I have now, which is distributing for other people,” he says.

Today, Special Delivery is housed in an unassuming warehouse in East Greenwich. The space is located so close to the railroad tracks that the whoosh of Amtrak trains frequently interrupts conversation. Periodicals are stacked on wood pallets, and Shapiro moves them around with a forklift he operates himself.

Three part-time delivery drivers work for the company, but Shapiro has only one fulltime employee, his son Peter.

At age 63, Peter is also the youngest person on Shapiro’s team; the nonagenarian prefers to work with older people.

“They will show up when they’re supposed to,” he says.

“They will go where they’re supposed to go. They will actually do what they said they were going to do. Unfortunately, I don’t think I could

do that with the younger generation today. This is the kind of business where you really like what you’re doing, or you really don’t.”

While Shapiro feels strongly about personal relationships, he has never shown much interest in his own ancestry. He opted out of a Bar Mitzvah at age 13 because his older brother had spent so much time writing thankyou notes. His father’s family came from Chicago, but many of those relatives were estranged, for unknown reasons, and his mother moved to the U.S. from Odessa when she was four. What Shapiro remembers of his mother’s Ukrainian background was her superb ethnic meals.

Joyce Shapiro passed away two years ago. These days, Shapiro revels in his two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

When he turned 89, Shapiro received a book from his son Michael, 65, who works as a cruise director. The self-pub-

lished volume was a collection of family photographs and Shapiro’s words of wisdom: “Pick your parents carefully, so you get good genes”; “Under no circumstances … stop breathing – people may do things you don’t like”; “The time to retire is when you’re in your 30s, when you can really enjoy it; the time to go back to work is when you’re my age, in your 80s.

You may as well, you can’t do anything else anyway.”

That last quip begs the question: How long does Shapiro plan to keep working?

“As long as I’m able to,” he says.

Want to follow Shapiro on his route? Check out our video about him at JewishRhody. com.

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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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 (except 11/8 and 11/24) at the Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence; Tuesday, 11/8, at Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence; Friday (except 11/25) at Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. In-person and Zoom programming from 11 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. The third Thursday of the month is a book chat with Neal Drobnis. Suggested donation: $3 per lunch for age 60 and older or for younger adults with a disability.

Other adults may purchase a meal for $6.50. A program of Jewish Collaborative Services, supported by the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI and Blackstone Health. Information and RSVP, Neal Drobnis at neal@ jfsri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 107.

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.

Delve Deeper | Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews: From 1492 to the 20th Century. Mondays 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Thru 12/12. Explore via Zoom the history of Arab/Middle Eastern and Sephardi Jews in this course taught

by Yaron Ayalon, Ph.D., director of the Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program and associate professor of Jewish and Middle Eastern Studies, College of Charleston (South Carolina). Presented in cooperation with the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI, Congregation Beth Sholom, Temple Beth-El, Temple Emanu-El, Temple Habonim, Temple Sinai and Temple Torat Yisrael. Information, Morty Miller at mortymiller1945@ gmail.com.

Let’s Talk Hebrew. Mondays and Tuesdays. Thru 11/29. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Four levels of in-person Hebrew conversation.

Cost: $100 per person (scholarship available). Information, Toby Liebowitz at tobyaane@gmail.com.

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) 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 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-1:15 p.m.

165 New Meadow Road, Barrington.

Join Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman in person for weekly Torah study on Pirke Avot: A Modern Commentary on Jewish Ethics. Free. Information, Adina Davies at office@templehabonim.org or 401-245-6536.

Delve Deeper | Moses Maimonides: Rabbi, Philosopher and Community Leader. Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m. Thru 12/15. No class: 11/24. Explore Maimonides’ mindset, life and cultural world in this course taught by Alan Verskin, Ph.D., associate professor of History, URI. Presented in cooperation with the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI, Congregation Beth Sholom, Temple Beth-El, Temple Emanu-El, Temple Habonim, Temple Sinai and Temple Torat Yisrael. Information, Morty Miller at mortymiller1945@ gmail.com.

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. To confirm time and place for each class, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-6323165.

Temple Habonim Tot & Family Shabbat. First Friday of each month. 5:45 p.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Tot Shabbat (5:45-6:15 p.m.): interactive service designed for families with young children that offers an opportunity to experience the joy of Shabbat through music, story and prayer.

Pizza Dinner (6:15 p.m.): $5 per person; email office@templehabonim.org to sign up. Family Service (6:45-7:45 p.m.): both in-person and streamed restorative service designed for both families

with school-aged children as well as those without. Information, Adina Davies at office@templehabonim. org or 401-245-6536.

Temple Sinai Shabbat Evening Service. Fridays usually 6 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Song, prayer and reflection offered in person or on Zoom. 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 website, Facebook, Cape Media, YouTube and Comcast channel 99.

Services are in person with proof of vaccination; masks optional.

Information, 508-775-2988 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. 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 a.m. 70 Orchard Ave., Providence. Shabbat morning minyan with lay participation incorporating study, Torah and Haftarah readings. In-person or via Zoom. Information, Joie Magnone at jmagnone@temple-beth-el.org or 401-331-6070, ext. 100.

Temple Torat Yisrael Shabbat Services. Virtual and in-person Saturdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. No services on 11/26. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Led by Rabbi David Barnett. Information or Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

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. Zoom link at templesinairi.org. Information, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.

Temple Habonim Torah Study.

Saturdays 10-11 a.m. Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman leads weekly Torah study on current portion. Via Zoom.

Information, Adina Davies at office@ templehabonim.org or 401-2456536.

Cape Cod Synagogue Shabbat Services. Saturdays 10:30 a.m.

145 Winter St., Hyannis, Mass. With Rabbi David Freelund. In-person and livestreamed on website, Facebook and YouTube. Services are in-person with proof of vaccination; masks optional. 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).

30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. Information, templesinairi.org or Dottie at 401-942-8350.

Friday | November 4

Jewish Alliance Blood Drive.

8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence.

Donations by appointment. Walkins if availability permits at time of arrival. Eat, hydrate and bring identification with you. Information, Stephanie Hague at shague@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 127.

Jewish National Fund-USA 2022 National Conference. 9 a.m. Friday – 10 p.m. Sunday.

Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport, 450 Summer St., Boston. Gather with leaders, philanthropists and students from across the U.S. and Israel for a weekend that showcases JNF-USA’s work for Israel and addresses key issues through panels and discussions. Information, Suzie Bassoff at sbassoff@jnf. org or 561-447-9733, ext. 877.

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat Songs & Torah Services. 5:45-6:30 p.m. Led by Rabbi David Barnett. Information and Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Sunday | November 6

Temple Habonim’s Shoreshim: Roots – Pre-K Program: Gratitude. 10:15-11:15 a.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington.

Introduce your child to the sounds, sights and traditions of Judaism with a focus on Jewish holidays.

Once per month. Adult must stay with child. Led by Temple Habonim’s Educational Director David Perol-

man. Information and registration, Adina at office@templehabonim.org or David at eddirector@templehabonim.org.

Kindergarten Open House. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Meet with representatives from local schools to learn more about their kindergarten programs. Brought to you by PJ Library and the Jewish Alliance. Information, Lyndsey Ursillo at lursillo@jewishallianceri. org or 401-421-4111, ext. 141.

Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center’s “Shoah Through Muslim Eyes.” 1:30 p.m. Cranston Public Library, 140 Sockanosset Cross Road, Cranston. With author Dr. Mehnaz Afridi, director of the Holocaust, Genocide & Interfaith Education Center and professor of Religious Studies at Manhattan College. “Shoah…” was nominated for the Yad Vashem International Book Prize for Holocaust Research.

Information, Kelly Vest at kvest@ hercri.org or 401-453-7860.

Temple Shalom Great Challah Bake. 2-5 p.m. 223 Valley Road, Middletown. Build your own challah, and enjoy refreshments and Israeli dancing. $36 per person. Information, templeshalomrhodeisland@ gmail.com.

The Rosen Library of Temple Emanu-El Readers’ “The Weight of Ink.” 4-5:30 p.m. 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Author Rachel Kadish will discuss her National Jewish Book Award-winning novel in which a female scholar working in contemporary London discovers the accomplishments of a 17th century female Torah scholar. In person with listen-only Zoom option. Information, Donna Marks at dpmarks1@ yahoo.com.

Tuesday | November 8

Project Shoresh Challah Bake.

Time and location to be determined.

Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-632-3165.

Wednesday | November 9

Temple Torat Yisrael Men’s Club Game Night. 6-8 p.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Socialize and play games including table tennis. Information, www.toratyisrael.org.

Kristallnacht Commemoration.

7 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Holocaust Survivor Ruth Oppenheim will recount her life-altering experience on 11/9/1938 and her family’s subsequent attempts to escape Germany.

Presented by the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center in partnership with Temple Emanu-El

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

NOVEMBER 2022 | 7

CALENDAR and Temple Beth-El. Information, Kelly Vest at kvest@hercri.org or 401-453-7860.

Friday | November 11

Project Shoresh The Shabbos Project. Time and location to be determined. Information, Naftali Karp at naftalikarp@gmail.com or 401-632-3165.

Saturday | November 12

Temple Habonim presents Saturday Night at the Movies: “Quiz Show.” 7-9:30 p.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington.

Havdalah followed by viewing and discussion of this 1994 film, which explores the television game show scandals of the 1950s and the intersection of class, education and the assimilation of American Jews.

Popcorn and soft drinks served.

Information, Adina Davies at office@ templehabonim.org or 401-2456536.

Sunday | November 13

Temple Sinai presents the RI Wind Ensemble. 2 p.m. 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. No charge. Enjoy either in person or via Zoom on the Temple Sinai website. Information, dottie@templesinairi.org or 401942-8350.

Wednesday | November 16

Temple Habonim presents “What’s Happening: A Night of Jewish Current Events.” 7-8:30 p.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Rabbi Howard will lead a discussion of current events in the Jewish world focused on Israel and its current political stalemate; may also discuss the November election results and their impact on the American Jewish community.

Information, Adina Davies at office@ templehabonim.org or 401-2456536.

Thursday | November 17

Confronting Antisemitism Together: An Interfaith Discussion. 6 p.m. Providence College, One Cunningham Square, Providence. With Rabbi Ron Fish, Northeast Division Director of Antisemitism Advocacy and Education, Anti-Defamation League; Stephanie Hague, Chief Policy Officer, Jewish Alliance of Greater RI; and Rev. John Pawlikowski, OSM, Professor Emeritus of Social Ethics and Former Director, Catholic-Jewish Studies Program, Catholic Theological Union. Both in-person and virtual. Sponsored by the Jewish-Catholic Theological Exchange at Providence College and the Jewish Alliance of Greater RI. Information, jcte@providence. edu.

JCS’ Faces of Adoption. 6-8 p.m.

Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Several Adoptive families will share diverse perspectives on their adoption experiences including LGBTQ+ adoption, transracial adoption and open adoption.

Time for questions. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome.

Free. Information and RSVP, Marcie Ingber at Marcie@jfsri.org or 401331-1244.

Temple Torat Yisrael Men’s Club Game Night. 6-8 p.m. 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich. Socialize and play games including table tennis. Information, www.toratyisrael.org.

Friday | November 18

Temple Torat Yisrael Virtual Kabbalat Shabbat Songs & Torah Services. 5:45-6:30 p.m. Led by Rabbi David Barnett. Information and Zoom link, Temple@toratyisrael.org.

Saturday | November 19

Temple Habonim Fundraiser for Ukraine featuring Pianist Dasha Bukhartseva and Cellist Marcel Kransner. 6-9 p.m. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. Cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres followed by concert and coffee & discussion.

All contributions accepted. Suggested donation: $90 ($180/Couple).

100% of proceeds go to the JDC Ukraine Response. Program fully underwritten by temple members.

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

Coming December 1

Sunday | November 20

An Evening with Juju Chang. 7:30 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Television journalist and Nightline co-anchor Chang shares her journey to Judaism and Jewish identity and discusses the parallels between Asian hate and antisemitism.

Hosted by co-chairs Lisa and Eric Shorr. Alliance Annual Community Campaign donor thank you event.

In-person and streaming online.

Information, Michele Gallagher at mgallagher@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 165.

Wednesday | November 30

Behind the Book: “How to (Really) Lose the Information War with Nina Jankowicz.” 6:30 p.m.

Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Nina will discuss how to deal with harassment, abuse, doxing and disinformation in online spaces. $10 per person. In partnership with the Jewish Book Council.

Information, Larry Katz at lkatz@ jewishallianceri.org or 401-4214111, ext. 179.

Reflections on Interfaith Relationships

A new podcast series from Jewish Rhody Media.

New episodes drop every two weeks.

8 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

FOOD

Cook Up Pumpkin-Inspired Comfort (FAMILY FEATURES)

A

fter a cool, blustery day, it’s hard to beat a satisfying meal that provides comfort from the inside out. Better yet, turning to a filling dish

that’s easy to prepare means more time cozying up with a favorite book or movie and less time in the kitchen.

CASSEROLES AND SOUPS are classic options for cooking up comfort at home, and these recipes

lean on the reliability of classic Minute Instant White Rice and Instant Jasmine Rice. Known for

its light, fluffy texture; short, easy prep; and only 5 minutes of cook time, the rice is perfect for busy families who need quick, satisfying meals.

If you’re looking for a filling feast, you can let your oven do the work with this Pumpkin and Spinach Layered Rice Casserole for an

Pumpkin and Spinach Layered Rice Casserole Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 50 minutes Servings: 4

rella cheese, divided 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

2 cups Minute Instant Jasmine Rice 7 ounces pumpkin puree 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons butter, cut into cubes 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided 1 1/4 teaspoons black pepper, divided 1 tablespoon olive oil 5 ounces spinach 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup ricotta cheese 1 egg 2 cups shredded mozza-

Prepare rice according to package directions.

Stir in pumpkin puree, cream, butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; set aside.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add spinach and garlic; cook 2-4 minutes, or until wilted. Let cool completely; squeeze out excess moisture. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

In medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg and spinach. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and remaining salt and pepper.

Layer half of rice mixture in greased 8-inch square baking dish. Top with spinach mixture then top with remaining rice mixture. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Cover with foil; bake 30 minutes. Remove foil; bake 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.

Italian-inspired solution. It doesn’t get much creamier than combining sweet pumpkin puree with three gooey cheeses while folding in a protein-rich egg, fresh spinach and fluffy jasmine rice makes it a truly satisfying meal.

Keep that seasonal pumpkin flavor on the menu by serving up

Pumpkin Curry Turkey Soup with Rice as a simple recipe that takes only 20 minutes. With the addition of coconut milk, this rich and creamy soup is quick, comforting and tasty for a hot bite on cool, crisp nights.

Pumpkin Curry Turkey Soup with Rice Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS 4 cups sodium-reduced turkey broth 1 can (14 ounces) pumpkin puree 2 tablespoons curry powder 1 teaspoon cayenne powder 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup water 2 cups shredded, cooked turkey 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk 2 cups Minute Instant White Rice

PHOTOS | FAMILY FEATURES

DIRECTIONS In large saucepan, combine turkey broth, pumpkin puree, curry powder, cayenne powder, ginger, pumpkin pie spice, salt and water. Bring to boil.

Stir in turkey and coconut milk; return to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook 5-8 minutes, or until turkey is heated through.

Stir in rice; cover and remove pan from heat. Let stand about 5 minutes until rice is tender.

10 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES

On Thanksgiving, blessings for all

I

like to think that Thanksgiving was inspired

by Sukkot, that the Pilgrims

read the Bible and endeavored to weave its values and ideas into the fabric of their lives here in this hemisphere.

CH

BOOK

SKE

T

THAT IDEA of welcoming strangers and their customs and of studying the stars in the sky above and the produce of and from the soil.

So, I accept Thanksgiving in that spirit of generosity and the dream of the founder of our colony, Roger Williams, who created the concept of “soul liberty” with a total separation of church from state (until 1954, when the repressive and political phrase “under God” was added, rather cynically, to our

Pledge of Alliance to separate our pursuit of personal happiness from Communist Russia).

Well, this Thanksgiving we will gather in the nation’s capital, D.C. (District of Columbia, named for Christopher Columbus … or perhaps the pigeon Columbus the Dove) with our trio of children and their offspring of cousins/our grandchildren.

Before that great event, I plan on a visit to our RISD Museum, to view yet again the small painting of Roger Williams greeting, from the prow of his rowboat, the canoe of the Narragansett tribe, with a bird as a symbolic companion creature.

I know that the truth and reality of that era is deep and complex, but I cling to that anchor MIKE FINK of hope that Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Thanksgiving can share the spotlight and grandeur of hospitality and good will and cordial-

ity. Instead of merely airing their antagonisms.

The Jeffersonian phrase “the pursuit of happiness” was originally the rejection of the privilege of the first-born, the primogeniture rights to the land itself.

He changed it from the “pursuit of property” to the more vague, but also poetic, “the pursuit of happiness” – whatever that might mean or come to mean.

It’s more elusive as well, like a merry-go-round.

My current word-hatred is the ad-induced anxiety of “Hurry!” That is the (perhaps puzzling) preview of my toast (if I am asked to make one) when we convene at the regal table of our hostess, my daughter Lily Dalia Samin, and bless you all here in Rhode Island and in Israel and among the isles and languages and landscapes and oceans of our troubled planet.

MIKE FINK (mfink33@aol.com) teaches at the Rhode Island School of Design.

The writer and his horse.

PHOTO | MIKE FINK

Behind the Book a visiting author series

HOW TO (REALLY) LOSE THE INFORMATION WAR HOW TO BE A WOMAN ONLINE: Surviving Abuse and Harassment, and How to Fight Back WITH NINA JANKOWICZ

When her book was profiled in The New Yorker, Nina Jankowicz was not expecting an avalanche of abuse and harassment. Women face untold levels of harassment and abuse in online spaces.

In response, Jankowicz has written one of the definitive reports on this troubling phenomenon.

November 30 at 6:30 PM | $10 per person at the Dwares JCC December 1 at 7:00PM Free virtual event.

WHY DO JEWISH? A Manifesto for 21st Century Jewish Peoplehood WITH ZACK BODNER

December 14 at 7:00PM Free virtual event.

UNDER JERUSALEM: The Buried History of the World’s Most Contested City WITH ANDREW LAWLER

February 22 at 7:00PM In-person at the Dwares JCC. DIARY OF A BLACK JEWISH MESSIAH: The Sixteenth Century Journey of David Reubeni through Africa, the Middle East and Europe WITH ANDREW VERSKIN

JewishAllianceRI.com/behind-the-book-2022-2023/

NOVEMBER 2022 | 11

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES

In L.A., a colossal synagogue addition

BY GEORGE M. GOODWIN

I

grew up at Congregation B’nai B’rith, the oldest Jewish congregation in Los Angeles, founded in 1862. Having erected its third home, on Wilshire

Boulevard, in 1929, at a cost of $1.4 million, it has been known ever since as the Wilshire Boulevard Temple.

Its domed sanctuary, built in a historical revival style, makes it an architectural cousin to Providence’s Temple Emanu-El, which was dedicated two years earlier.

BUT WILSHIRE Boulevard is a much larger structure, known nationally, if not internationally, for the glorious mural depicting epochs of Jewish history that adorns its sanctuary. A gift of the three Warner brothers, the mural was painted by one of their studio artists, Hugo Ballin, on a nearly cinematic scale.

Commuting on a school bus for an hour each way, my twin brother, Theo, and I attended religious school at Wilshire Boulevard from kindergarten through Confirmation. My understanding of Judaism was largely shaped by this shrine, which, having been inspired

by Roman, early Christian and Islamic sources, seats about 1,700 congregants on two levels. (During the High Holy Days, a nearby Presbyterian church was also used.)

Inevitably, perhaps, Wilshire Boulevard’s magnificence seeded my deep interest in art and architectural history, which eventually led me to graduate studies and teaching at the college level. Surprisingly, however, the visual arts also may have led me back to Jewish studies because, much later, I earned another master’s degree, at Hebrew Union College, in Los Angeles.

Perhaps now more than ever, I am drawn to Jewish prayer that is visually, verbally and musically compelling, as well as that which resounds through utter silence.

Perhaps I have also become somewhat confused because, over many decades, I have learned to savor modernism as much as traditionalism. Or, for me, has one become the other?

And, inexplicably, for 25 years I have also occa-

sionally helped form the daily minyan at Providence’s Chabad House, a three-decker abode almost perfectly alien to artistic expression.

Today, I enjoy praying in the sanctuary and chapel of Providence’s Beth-El, built in 1954, as much as when I joined the congregation 35 years ago. I have no doubt that it is one of architect Percival Goodman’s finest synagogues, and also an outstanding example of the early postwar era. It should be preserved and protected at nearly any cost.

Fortunately, my parents belonged to Wilshire Boulevard for their entire lives together, and my sister, Betty, and her family still belong there. Part of our attachment has little to do with art or architecture; my mother’s uncle, Edgar F. Magnin, served as senior rabbi for no fewer than 69 years. Both he and his dear wife, Evelyn, were like a third set of grandparents to us.

In the 1950s, when Jews in Los Angeles were moving to farther and farther suburbs, Wilshire Boulevard expanded by building a summer camp near the beach in Malibu. It became so successful that the congregation eventually built another camp on a neighboring hilltop. Sadly, in 2018, both camps were destroyed by a wildfire, but they will surely be rebuilt. Generations of kids and counselors cherished those Sunday schools in the woods.

During the late 1990s, the temple expanded again by building the Audrey & Sydney Irmas Campus in a western suburb. Not only a day school, it included a synagogue where services were held more frequently than on Wilshire Boulevard.

The main entrance to the addition.

But in 2013, the temple’s In 2018, once I learned sanctuary was magnifithe outcome of an internacently restored, and several tional competition to select new spaces were added to an architectural firm, I form the Ericka J. Glazer wrote twice to Wilshire’s Campus. The cost was $47.5 senior rabbi, trying to million. explain why it would be a Temple members and serious – perhaps iconoclasobservers might think that, tic – mistake. by this time, the congregaAfter a two-year hiatus tion had built quite enough. caused by the pandemic, Perhaps it was time to place Betsey and I were finally a greater emphasis on obser- able to visit Los Angeles in vances in the home, or mitzJune. We were especially vot in the Jewish and larger communities.

By 2018, however, still another building project was envisioned, made possible by a $30-million gift from Audrey Irmas (from the sale of one avant-garde painting). Coupled with a large fundraising campaign, this led to the creation of the Audrey Irmas Pavilion, a $95-million structure that was not actually connected to the 1929 edifice. Its principal use would be as an enormous, ground-level banquet hall seating about The east entrance to the 1929 600. There also would building. be two more levels, for curious to see the Irmas conference rooms, lounges, Pavilion, which had been workshops and offices; there designed by the Office of was no need for classrooms Metropolitan Architecture. or a library.

This firm, based in RotterGiven my love of art and dam, in the Netherlands, architecture, I was more was founded and is still led than curious to learn in by the hipster Rem Koolwhich style the addition haas, although his younger would be built and who would design it. Indeed, how partner, Shohei Shigematsu, in the New York office, took would this structure relate charge of this commission. to, or possibly overshadow, Now, nearly six months Uncle Edgar’s building?

Like the Beth-El leaders who later, I’m still trying hard to make sense of the hired Percival Goodman, I 55,000-square-foot colossus, favored an imaginative, but which is decorated – almost not a radical, design.

PHOTO | GEORGE M. GOODWIN

randomly – with about 1,200 hexagonally-shaped concrete panels and windows.

An astonishing confabulation, perhaps resembling a convention center, it offers breathtaking views in every direction – not only from the rooftop garden, but also from inside the ziggurat-like structure.

Among fans or practitioners of avant-garde trends, the Irmas Pavilion has become an instant landmark. But I can’t imagine how, or if, the space will be used on a regular basis. For an Oneg Shabbat, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah reception, a wedding? Workshops for neighbors who live in this part of Koreatown?

Perhaps in 1929, when Congregation B’nai B’rith relocated to Wilshire Boulevard, similar concerns and criticisms were heard. In retrospect, however, both the move and the design seemed visionary.

Oh, did I forget to mention that Wilshire Boulevard has embarked on another building project? Having merged with a smaller suburban congregation founded during the postwar era, it has embarked on an extensive remodeling project near the home where we Goodwin kids grew up.

Aren’t the sanctuaries that we carry in our hearts, dreams and memories splendid enough? Oh, sweet Touro, so grand in your intimacy and testimony.

GEORGE M. GOODWIN, of Providence, is the editor of Rhode Island Jewish Historical Notes.

12 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES

Angry sound bites won’t solve our immigration problem

I

mmigration has always been a convenient hotbutton issue to rile up voters of all stripes. The subject makes for easy rallying cries and attack

ads – often stereotypical and misleading – from both the right and left.

KI

The Chinese Exclusion Act lasted more than 10 years. Then the Geary Act of 1892 strengthened and renewed it. It was made permanent in 1902.

Chinese immigrants were barred from the United States until 1943, when the Magnuson Act repealed the exclusion act and allowed 105 Chinese immigrants to enter annually.

Chinese immigration increased with the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which abolished LARRY direct racial KESSLER barriers for immigrants, and then the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which abolished the National Origins Formula.

But immigrants from China weren’t the only ones targeted. Some of the most egregious examples of immigrants being denied admission to the United States took place before and during World War II, when the U.S. government turned back ships carrying thousands of Jewish refugees fleeing Hitler’s horrors.

The list could go on, but with Thanksgiving looming – a day that’s supposed to celebrate the promise that this country holds for immigrants, despite the hatred and venom being directed toward them – I’d like to share two immigrant success stories.

NG OU

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S PE A

BUT THE HARD TRUTH is that, over the last several decades, neither major American political party has shown genuine interest in taking a serious stab at honest, practical conversations with the other side to achieve a bipartisan solution.

Instead, far too many politicians at both extremes relish the chance to use immigration mainly for their own political advantage. After all, compromise would mean backing off their radical stances for the good of the country, and that approach to governing is practically non-existent these days.

Yet as damaging to the nation’s long-term fortunes as those politicians are by putting partisan politics ahead of the country, they’re unfortunately just following the pitiful examples of those who came before them: Historically, immigrants have been used as political pawns.

The handling of Chinese immigration is one such example. As the father of two girls adopted from China, I made it a point years ago to learn about U.S. efforts to ban Chinese immigrants. Here’s a brief history, according to Wikipedia: The Page Act of 1875 banned Chinese women from migrating to the United States and was followed in 1882 by the Chinese Exclusion Act, which prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers for 10 years.

Helping a new citizen The first story involves my wife, Lynne Cains, a volunteer tutor with The Literacy Center, in Attleboro, where she works with people who need help in either learning English or being more comfortable reading, writing and speaking it. The center also offers classes to earn a high school equivalency degree (formerly PHOTO | KESSLER FAMILY known as a GED and Arianna Kessler celebrates becoming a now called HiSET), naturalized citizen at the age of 3 in 1999. job and career resources, financial 2017. helping those who are less advice and computer literI’m sharing excerpts of fortunate. acy. that column here in an “That’s why we celebrate It also assists immigrants attempt to get the immiThanksgiving each year: trying to become U.S. citigrant conversation back to the Native Americans who zens, and my wife recently the contributions that newwere in Plymouth in 1620 spent several months comers make. The words and 1621 helped the Pilhelping a woman study for are as relevant now as they grims survive the harsh the citizenship test. That were 23 years ago. winter. You’ll learn more particular experience was “We were proud of you about Thanksgiving in the a new endeavor for Lynne, when you became a citifuture, and one day we’ll but she was undaunted. zen. Why? Because despite visit Plymouth and its She helped the woman, all the complaining that famous rock. an Egyptian immigrant, grown-ups like to do about “But for now, remember prepare for the test and this country, the United that you have become a improve her English.

States is still unequivocally citizen of a fine country, I’m very proud of my the best place in the world one that must continue to wife’s hard work, which to live. accept immigrants because, culminated in her student “This country allowed as Thanksgiving reminds passing the citizenship Mommy and Daddy’s parus, everyone’s ancestors interview on her first try; ents, their parents and their who weren’t Native Amershe’ll be officially sworn in parents’ parents to worship icans came to the United as a citizen in the future. as they believed and to States to flee persecution raise their families with and enjoy the unique a lot of blood, sweat, tears A father’s advice freedoms that this country and hard work – and it conoffers.

The other story you might tinues to allow immigrants “Now, Arianna, you’re remember, as I wrote about from across the world to put an American, and you, too, it here three Novembers down roots and build new can enjoy that freedom. As ago, when I related how my lives. you grow up, I pray that you daughter Arianna, who had “Citizenship carries with will use it wisely.” been adopted in China in it many duties and respon1997, became a naturalized sibilities, including voting.

LARRY KESSLER American citizen at age 3, Not enough people bother (larrythek65@gmail.com) in September 1999. to vote, but perhaps you and is a freelance writer based Shortly after Arianna your friends will become in North Attleboro. He blogs became a citizen, to mark community-minded citiat https://larrytheklineup. her first Thanksgiving as zens. Being a good citizen blogspot.com. an American, I wrote a colis not hard, but it starts umn, in the form of a letter with being a good person, to her, in The Sun Chronfollowing the Ten Comicle, of Attleboro, where I mandments – a universal worked until retiring in code of good conduct – and

NOVEMBER 2022 | 13

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY VOICES

Expert tips for aging well HERE IS SOME WISDOM from guests on my “Positive Aging with Patricia Raskin” podcast that is well worth sharing:

that. Those include keeping your weight down, vitamin D, and doing proper exercises.”

Jeff Weiss, CEO of Age of

books, including the international bestseller, “The Soulmate Secret”: “What you need in order to make a relationship work in your older years is a connection, compatibility, good communication, which can be learned, and, most importantly, a shared vision for the future. …

Wanting some PATRICIA of the same big things, sharing a RASKIN common interest, and agreeing on certain things.”

L

HEA

TH

Dr. Vijay Vad, co-author of

the updated and revised book “BackRX, A Proven Integrative Program for Staying Pain Free”: “As we age, our disc, the cushion between the two bones, starts losing water content … and … the joints start moving together and the canal gets smaller.

There are ways to minimize

Y L I VI

NG

Majority: “75% of all adults 55 and older are a part of the active aging market. This is a group of consumers that has never really existed before. People 55 and older are much more involved in the community, much more physically, digitally, mentally and socially active than my parents and the older generations were at our age.”

Arielle Ford, author of 11

Dr. Michael Roizen, author of

four No. 1 New York Times best-selling books, including the new book, “The Great Age Reboot, Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow”: “People are going to be younger than they are

now …. There are 14 areas of aging-mechanism research, such as gene editing [and] stem cells without immunogenicity, and whole other areas that have all shown in two animal species that they can report age, meaning you can get a little younger. Where today 60 is the new 40, we expect [in the future] 90 to be the new 40.”

Dr. Roger Landry, author of

the award-winning “Live Long, Die Short: A Guide to Authentic Health and Successful Aging”: “The research is clear that genes probably count for about a third of how we age … society has changed but what we require in our physiology hasn’t changed as quickly, and ... frequent movement, having a strong social connection, everyone having a role … are all things that are critically important to healthy aging.”

IT IS AN HONOR, as an early baby boomer, to bring this information and inspiration to our older-adult community.

I’ll close with a quote from Rabbi Yehuda Appel in an article labeled “Retirement,” at Aish.com, that focuses on the enormous respect for the elderly in Judaism.

He writes, “The older a person is, the more likely he or she is to have acquired life experience and wisdom. Thus, rather than being denied an opportunity to share their knowledge, Judaism teaches that elders should lead our people.”

He continues, “In the Torah, many of the greatest leaders of the Jewish People gain their positions at an advanced age. Abraham first

responds to God’s call that he go to Canaan when he is 75 years old. Later on, when the Israelites leave Egypt, they are led by Moses and Aaron – ages 80 and 83, respectively.”

PATRICIA RASKIN, owner of Raskin Resources Productions, is an award-winning radio producer, business owner and leader. She is on the board of directors of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence. Her new “Positive Aging with Patricia Raskin” podcast is produced

by Rhode Island PBS. To listen, go to www.buzzsprout. com/2025964.

Now Serving Kosher Cuisine. www.hattieidechaffee.org

FALL SALE on all new area rugs save 15-50% now through december 31

14 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION Netanyahu appears headed for victory

EDMUND DE WAAL’S “The Hare with Paris from Odessa, in Ukraine, he Amber Eyes” is about many things. acquired the collection of 264 netTowards the very end of the 350suke. In 1899, he gave the collection, page book, the author confesses, “I as a wedding present, to his cousin no longer know if this book is about Viktor, in Vienna, where the netmy family, or memory, or myself, suke remained until some months or is still about small Japanese after the Nazis were defeated in things.”

May 1945.

The book is about all of In December 1945, Anna, the above, but its orgaViktor’s faithful servant, nization hinges on delivered the netsuke to those “small Japathe author’s grandmother, nese things” called Elizabeth de Waal, who “netsuke,” which kept them in her home, the Ephrussis, a at that time in Tunbridge fabulously wealthy Wells, a town about 30 Jewish family, miles southeast of central handed down from London. generation to genBut there was no RABBI JAMES rest for the weary eration, from place to ROSENBERG netsuke; in 1947, the place.

Indeed, the title of the book, “The author’s great-uncle, Hare with Amber Eyes,” refers to Ignace (Iggy) Ephrussi, took them but one of the miniature sculptures to Tokyo, where they remained on in the family’s collection of 264 display in his home until his death Japanese netsuke carvings of ivory in 1994. Iggy bequeathed them to or wood.

Edmund de Waal, who now keeps These 264 netsuke, kept from the them in his London residence.

Nazis by the courage and cunning The netsuke have been silent of a loyal servant, are all that is left witnesses to the poisonous antisemof the Ephrussis’ once vast holdings itism that slowly ate away at the of mostly European masterpieces. privileged lives of the Ephrussis.

The Nazis plundered, stole or hid Antisemitism in Paris, never far the family’s fortune in artwork, from the surface, erupted with the which was never recovered. onset of the Dreyfus Affair in 1894.

Among the netsuke miniatures But the antisemitism in Vienna, are a menagerie of animals, including rats, monkeys and tigers, as well as ‘I had little patience with those a range of human types, including an elegant Japawho appeared to be obsessed nese dancer and a beggar who has fallen asleep over with collecting things.’ his begging bowl.

This cornucopia of netsuke could feed the imagwhere Viktor Ephrussi lived with inations of young and old alike. All his family in the luxurious Palais of these charming miniature sculpEphrussi on the Ringstrasse, was tures, some as small as a thimble or far more blatant and ultimately far a matchbox, are designed to be held more dangerous. and fondled in the palm of your On March 13, 1938, Hitler’s troops hand; some have suggested that annexed Austria into the German they function as “worry beads.”

Reich: the Anschluss. De Waal In the sophisticated European writes, “And on 27th April it is capitals of 19th-century Paris and declared that the property at numVienna, where the Ephrussi family ber 14 Dr. Karl Lueger Ring, Vienna held major banking interests, Jap1, formerly the Palais Ephrussi, has anese netsuke introduced the art been fully Aryanized. It is one of world to “new textures, new ways of the first to receive such an accofeeling things.” lade.”

These netsuke form an essential So begins the exile of the Ephruslinkage in the story of the decline sis. and fall of the Ephrussi dynasty.

And all of this was before the After de Waal’s great-great outbreak of World War II, on Sept. 1, uncle, Charles Ephrussi, moved to 1939; all this was before the barbar-

EM

S TO M

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(JTA) – As most of the votes in Israel continue to be tallied on Wednesday [Nov. 2], Benjamin Netanyahu looks assured of returning to power, as his far-right bloc of parties is predicted to win around 65 seats, well above the 61 needed in the 120-seat Knesset, or parliament.

The official final results are not expected to be finalized on Wednesday, but over 80% of the votes had been counted by the afternoon local time.

Netanyahu, who has only been out of the prime minister’s office for 16 months, is expected to form a coalition with multiple haredi Orthodox parties and the Religious Zionism slate of two parties, led by the far-right extremists Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich.

Ben-Gvir has worried American Jewish leaders with his anti-Arab, anti-LGBTQ and other inflammatory rhetoric. Several American Jewish leaders were holding out hope for a strong performance by smaller liberal and Arab parties or

by Defense Minister Benny Gantz’s slate.

But those possibilities seemed increasingly remote. Meretz, a longtime voice of Israel’s ever-shrinking left wing, and the Balad Arab party, which attempted to dent Netanyahu’s numbers with an impassioned get-out-the-vote campaign, are both currently not above the 3.25% of the vote threshold needed to join the Knesset.

Current Prime Minister Yair Lapid’s party is predicted to win 24 seats, compared to 32 for Netanyahu’s Likud. Ben-Gvir’s Jewish Power party snuck into Israel’s last government with 1 seat; now the Religious Zionism slate looks headed for a total of at least 14 seats.

If the count holds, Netanyahu’s government will represent a significant swing to the right for Israeli politics, which have trended conservative for decades. Ben-Gvir, touted as a rising star who has electrified conservatives, will likely be given a high-ranking cabinet position. He is hoping to be named security minister, which would put him in charge of the country’s police force.

Women, LGBTQ people and other minorities have been sounding an alarm for weeks, arguing that Israel could lose support on the world stage.

“Our lives are in play in these elections,” Ethan Felson, executive director of A Wider Bridge, a group that advocates for LGBTQ Jews in the United States and Israel, said Tuesday. “We may very well be waking up to these nightmares.”

Not all small ‘things’ are just tchotchkes

IT S E

IN THE NEWS

ity of the Holocaust.

Jewish property in Vienna was being confiscated. “So this is how it is to be done …. And while this is going on, the erstwhile owners are having their ribs broken and their teeth knocked out,” de Waal comments with terse bitterness.

It appears that the Ephrussis were not subject to the same physical brutality as were many of their fellow Jews. Nevertheless, when de Waal visits the Jewish archives in Vienna while doing research for his book, he discovers that “there is an official red stamp across his [great-uncle Viktor’s] first name. It reads ‘Israel.’ An edict decreed that all Jews had to take new names ...

‘Israel’ for the men, ‘Sara’ for the women. “…The family is not erased but written over.”

WHEN I was an adolescent, I was a devoted disparager of “things.” I became intoxicated with the profound psychological, philosophical and religious challenges that flowed forth from such literary masterpieces as Herman Melville’s “MobyDick” and Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s “The Brothers Karamazov.”

I had little patience with those who appeared to be obsessed with collecting things. Though I loved my Aunt Ann deeply, I could not fathom why she cluttered her Bronx apartment – and, later on, her Fort Lee apartment, on the Jersey side of the George Washington Bridge – with what we Jews call tchotchkes.

Having read “The Hare with Amber Eyes,” I have made room within myself for a far greater respect for “things.” All kinds of “things” – many of them of little intrinsic value – help us to tell the stories of our complex lives.

And so it is that those “small Japanese things,” those 264 netsuke, have made it possible for Edmund de Waal to tell the complicated story of his family, his memories and his deepest self.

JAMES B. ROSENBERG is a rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim, in Barrington. Contact him at rabbirosenberg@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.

NOVEMBER 2022 | 15

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COMMUNITY VOICES | OPINION

From the President

Alliance is vigilant against antisemitism OVER THE LAST few weeks, we have seen an unacceptable rise in antisemitic statements from public figures, including Kanye West. These remarks are not only hurtful, they are dangerous. When anyone with a significant following expresses an antisemitic view, the danger is that their followers may blindly adopt them as well.

This must stop.

Antisemitic statements have an impact on impressionable minds, and they embolden those who already hold similar views. We have seen antisemitic white supremacists in California hang banners that simply stated, “Kayne is right.” The neo-Nazis believe they have a champion. I wish these incidents were isolated, but we've seen an uptick in local incidents within the last several weeks including vitriolic banners posted over area highways, anti-Jewish flyers espousing white supremacist ideologies distributed in local neighborhoods and a hate-filled

note left at Brown RISD Hillel over the weekend. These acts are intolerable and unacceptable – especially in the shadow of the four-year anniversary of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting.

I want everyone to know that when it comes to fighting antisemitism, the Alliance is always there for our community. Antisemitism is not starting, nor will it end with Kanye West, and we will remain vigilant against all forms of antisemitism locally, nationally and globally. Much of the work we do is not public, it is behind the scenes. We work with the Rhode Island Attorney General and US Attorney’s Office as well as with local law enforcement to monitor and address acts of antisemitism when they occur. We meet with local officials to discuss ways to reduce acts of antisemitism.

And we help to organize others to help us fight it because we cannot do it alone. Next May, the Alliance will be hosting an

anti-hate summit for educators, law enforcement and public officials to come together to not only learn why fighting antisemitism and hate is important, but to create action steps that will help us stamp out hate in Rhode Island.

In the short-term, we are calling on all Rhode Islanders to educate themselves about antisemitic tropes and history, to listen to Jewish voices, and stand with us against antisemitism and all forms of hate. We are working with our partners at the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center to help schools teach Rhode Island children about the dangers of antisemitism. And we continue to work, as we always have, to ensure every Jewish institution is safe and secure.

While this rise in antisemitism is concerning, I continue to be inspired by our strong, vibrant community. Please know that the Alliance is here for you, and here because of you.

JEWISH

RHODE ISLAND's

This Month in

History

Patriots owner funds NFL TV ad about standing up ‘against Jewish hate’

BY JACOB GURVIS (JTA) – Robert Kraft, the New England Patriots owner who donates heavily to Jewish causes, funded an advertisement that ran during Sunday’s NFL matchup between the Patriots and the New York Jets, urging NFL fans to “stand up against Jewish hate.”

The Oct. 30 ad aired during a weekend in which NBA star Kyrie Irving shared a link to an antisemitic movie online and the message “Kanye is right about the jews” was projected at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida, during a college football game between the University of Florida and the University of Georgia.

“There are less than 8 million Jewish people in this country. Fewer than are watching this game,” read Kraft’s 30-second ad, which featured simple white text on a black background, set to ambient

music. “They need you to add your voice.” It was produced jointly by the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism and Patriots owner Robert Kraft’s foundation.

You can watch the ad here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=MWCz4icaTWc “We must do more to make people aware that antisemitism is a growing threat against Jews on social media and in communities across the country,” Kraft said in a statement.

“I have committed tremendous resources toward this effort and am vowing to do more.

I encourage others to join in these efforts. My hope is this commercial will continue to enhance the national conversation about the need to speak out against hatred of all types, and particularly to stand up to Jewish hate.”

Kraft, whose estimated net worth is $10.6 billion, has donated millions of dollars to a

variety of Jewish causes over the years – including Israel and numerous Jewish institutions and programs in Boston.

The ad follows the recent controversy surrounding rapper Kanye West, whose ongoing antisemitic tirades led to the termination of his highly lucrative contract with Adidas.

The Jacksonville stunt was just one of a handful of antisemitic incidents in the city during the weekend, where the same message was displayed on another building and banners reading “End Jewish Supremacy in America” and “Honk if you know it’s the Jews” were displayed on Interstate 10. It is unclear how the Kanye statement was projected across the exterior of the Jacksonville stadium.

The University of Florida and the University of Georgia released a joint statement condemning the incident.

Belles of the Ball BETTE RAND WAS ONCE a fashionable clothier in downtown Providence, tucked into the second floor of the Lapham Building. The nine-story building, located next to what is now Yoleni’s Greek Restaurant and Market on Westminster Street, is currently being renovated into apartments. This advertisement from 1941 showcases the elegant ballgowns, opera gloves and optional feathers of the era, as well as a special plug for the Temple Emanu-El Dinner-Dance held that month. Notable is the normalcy of the ad: a pleasant soiree, commencing as usual, only weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor. It is likely that some attendees would serve in World War II.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

The competition filled the hall at the temple.

Cakes and cupcakes and pies, oh my!

BY FRAN OSTENDORF THE WORLD SERIES is back in Providence. And no, it’s not that premier baseball event that many of you have been watching. We’re talking about the World Series of Food, at Providence’s Temple Beth-El. After a three-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the cooking competition returned to the temple’s Meeting Hall on Oct.

30, with 21 chefs participating in a Cake and Birthday Desserts competition to honor Rabbi Emeritus Leslie Y. Gutterman’s 80th birthday.

The array of goodies available for ogling and tasting was mouthwatering. Cakes and cake pops, cupcakes, tortes and pies, made by bakers of all ages.

The 160 or so hungry attendees voted for their favorites in the People’s Choice category.

PHOTOS | GLEN OSMUNDSON

And a panel of judges from the local food world gave out prizes in the Judges’ category. The judges were Sydney Chazen, a personal chef and educator; Jan Dane, owner of Stock Culinary Goods, in Providence; and Milena Pagan, owner of Rebelle Bagels and Little Sister Cafe, both in Providence.

People’s Choice winners:

FRAN OSTENDORF is the editor of Jewish Rhode Island.

Honorable Mention: Sam Zwetchkenbaum, for Chocolate Challah

Jennie Theriaque, and her children, l to r, Leah, 8, Talia, 5, and Caleb, 11, taste several of the bake goods on the steps to the stage at the temple.

Ninth-grader Jacob Nicolato, for Churro Bars Runner-up: Barbara Barry, for S’mores Blondies

Judges’ winners: Bob Sandy, for a multilayer Hungarian torte glazed with coffee sugar Runner-up: Barbara Barry, for S’mores Blondies

Barbara Barry, of Pawtucket, demonstrates how she torches the marshmallow meringue on her S’mores Blondies.

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

NOVEMBER 2022 | 17

Leslie Y. Gutterman, rabbi emeritus of Temple Beth-El, got help celebrating his 80th birthday at the competition.

Sprinkles were key to this baked treat.

Carl Shulman, of Rumford, reaches for a baked good at the competition.

LEFT: Gloria Feibish, of North Providence, left, catches up with former neighbors Caroline Axelrod, of Warwick, center, and her mother Adelina Axelrod, of Bristol.

BELOW: Bob Sandy, of Providence, has a little fun after winning the top award for his torte.

18 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

BUSINESS 27 | OBITUARIES 29

An epic pedal-powered journey

The Karp children and their gear, ready for a bike trip.

BY ROBERT ISENBERG

T

he Karp children were ready. They were outfitted with helmets and reflective vests. They had trained all summer. They had learned the

basic mechanics of their bicycles. On Aug. 14, they would begin their bike tour – starting from their home in Providence and ending in Monsey, New York, more than 200 miles away.

AND THEN, 5 miles from their own front door, Shifra Nechama Karp rode over broken glass and got a flat tire.

“That was a little embarrassing,” Shifra Nechama recalled with a laugh during a recent interview.

After all, they hadn’t even left Providence’s city limits.

She stopped to look at the flat, along with her two siblings, Yehuda and Schaindel Sarah. Yehuda used his recent training in bike maintenance to strip off the tire and patch the inner tube.

Riding 200 miles is no small feat for anyone, but

Shifra Nechama is 14, Yehuda is 12, and Schaindel Sarah is 11. Together, with only the subtlest adult supervision, the Karp children successfully cycled through three states. Their three-day journey ended on Aug. 16, when they arrived at the wedding ceremony for their aunt, Rivkah Kayla Nath, nee Jakubowicz.

Their parents are Noach Karp, 36, a rabbi with Project Shoresh, in Providence, and Miriam Karp, 35, a COTA-certified occupational therapy associate.

The Karp household puts a premium on exercise; Noach is an avid runner

PHOTO | KARP FAMILY

and Miriam has cultivated the kids’ interest in cycling.

Their schedule this year didn’t lend itself to summer camp, so the Karp family decided to try something different: a multiday bicycle trek.

“It was good to have something organized, a goal that they were going to achieve,” says Noach.

Miriam spearheaded the planning and training, which proved rigorous: During the first week, the kids went for 20-mile bike rides, followed by 30-milers the second week, and so on until they reached about 50 miles.

The kids were up to the task; only at the 45-mile mark did they feel that they were “actually exercising.”

And every ride ended at a meaningful location, such as much-beloved stores like Bass Pro Shop or a farm where they could pick berries.

“We tried to make the actual destination fun,” says Miriam. “They got a lot of different experiences out of each trip.”

“We learned each other’s strengths throughout the training,” adds Schaindel Sarah.

When the ride began, Miriam followed the kids in a car and documented their progress on a public Facebook page she called, “The Karp Kids Bike to NY.” Miriam gave her children a wide berth, but she could always reach them within 30 minutes, in case of emergency. Otherwise, the kids had to pedal, and problem-solve, on their own.

“Sometimes we got lost and had to reroute,” says Shifra Nechama, who used Google Maps to show them the way. “In the beginning, it was a little bit of a heavy responsibility, because I’m the oldest. I feel like, if anything happens, it’s kind of my fault.”

Despite the rolling terrain and epic mileage, the Karp children could always look forward to a hotel and filling meals, thanks to arrangements Miriam had made ahead of time.

The ride also had its share of thrills, some bad

– sketchy neighborhoods – and some exhilarating, like biking over the 139-foot-tall Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge.

“For me, the biggest feat of this whole thing was how well they managed to get along,” says Miriam. “And when they did have differences, they were able to resolve them with almost no parental interventions.

“We heard a little bit of, ‘Oh, goodness, that’s a lot of independence for kids.’

But I think we saw that it’s a scary world out there, but there are more good people out there than bad.”

“It was amazing to watch as a parent,” adds Noach.

“I had in my mind what it might look like. And then the reality of what they did and how they did it was really phenomenal.”

ROBERT ISENBERG (risenberg@jewishallianceri. org) is the multimedia producer for the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, and he writes for Jewish Rhode Island.

NOVEMBER 2022 | 19

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY

Juju Chang to discuss why ‘it’s not OK to hate people’ at Alliance event

BY FRAN OSTENDORF

A

s we hear more and more antisemitic messages and tropes, Juju Chang’s message couldn’t be more relevant: The “Nightline”

co-anchor has much to say about antisemitism as well as about Asian hate.

CHANG, WHO has a foot in both the Jewish and the Asian communities, says there are strong parallels between antisemitism and Asian hate: Both target marginalized populations for discrimination, hate and violence.

Chang has focused much of her 35-year career as a journalist on giving a voice to the voiceless, she said in a recent Zoom interview. She has focused on highlighting people who are underrepresented in many ways.

“That’s culminated in my AAPI [Asian-American Pacific Islander] activism,” she said.

It’s also led her to such projects as the 2021 ABC News Live special, “Stop The Hate: The Rise In Violence Against Asian Americans,” which she co-anchored.

“AAPI hate reflects the kind of scapegoating that has

happened in recent history and throughout Jewish history,” she said.

Chang will discuss her experiences on Nov. 20, at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s Annual Campaign Thank You event.

Audience members will be encouraged to submit questions for her at the end of the interview-style conversation.

Born in Korea, Chang was raised an atheist in California. The Stanford University graduate said, “I came to New York with advice from my antisemitic father to ‘watch out for the Jews,’ ” she said. “I promptly fell in love with a nice Jewish man. I told him I’d never convert.”

But after seven years of courtship and five years of marriage, Chang eventually did convert. She is married to Neal Shapiro, a television executive. The couple has three sons, whom they have

raised Jewish.

Chang has spent much of her career at ABC News and has been recognized for her work with multiple Emmys, Gracies, a DuPont, a Murrow and Peabody Awards.

She says that solidarity is the way to fight the rising hate.

“We have to stand up and say it’s not OK to hate people,” she said. “The vast majority of Americans have to stand up and say it’s not all right.”

Chang said education is a part of it, too. Curriculums have to change so we can all tell our stories, she said.

Chang’s involvement in the Jewish community has shown her the changing face of Judaism. She has been active in her synagogue and with other organizations, such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).

“In my lifetime, we’ve seen membership ranks plummet, but Jewish identity has risen, especially among unaffiliated Jews. How do you engage these folks?” she said.

Chang will speak Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. The program will also be livestreamed.

This event, co-chaired

by Lisa and Eric Shorr, is a thank you for donors of any amount to the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s 2023 Annual Community Campaign.

If you haven’t already made a gift, there is still an opportunity to do so.

To register for the Nov. 20 program, go to https:// www.jewishallianceri. org/juju-chang. If you wish to view the event virtually, a link will be sent after registration.

For more information or to make a gift, contact Michelle Gallagher at 401-4214111, ext.

165.

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

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COMMUNITY We're here for you.

Israeli fashions through the decades in spotlight at Nov. program

Life & Relationship Coaching If you’re seeking better understanding and communication to help strengthen your relationship, then we encourage you to contact us. Our unique couple-to-couple approach combines Angel’s skills as a Certified Coach with those of her husband, Charles Granoff, a licensed Therapist.

BY LARRY KATZ ISRAELI DESIGNER LIRAZ (Liri) Cohen will present Israel’s story through fashion from the late 19th century to today at a program on Nov. 16 at the Alliance’s Dwares Jewish Community Center, in Providence.

In this unique event, models will wear signature Israeli items on a runway while Cohen explains how significant events in Israel’s history have influenced the creation of a new “Israeli outfit” time and time again.

As part of the event, members of the audience will have an opportunity to walk the runway, wearing historical outfits.

A University of Rhode Island student who participated in the program years ago wrote, “Each model represented a different era in Israeli fashion. I had the unique experience of modeling a 2016 camouflage outfit consisting of shorts and a polo. Prior, I was able to wear a full white suit with a top hat, reminiscent of the retro ’30s. The trends reflected the times, and the times reflected the trends.

“For spectators, Liraz gave an informative presentation that opened everyone’s eyes to the vast world of fashion in Israel ….”

After the show, there will be a small sale of items by Amy Page DeBlasio, a woman-owned ethical contem-

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These grants are intended for individuals in the community to offer their own programming and content that is uniquely relevant to them, their interests, and their immediate community. This can be in the form of a Shabbat dinner, a park meet-up, a Jewish learning group, a holiday gathering, or something more creative and innovative.

Collaborative grants are intended to fund new and creative partnerships that contribute to vibrant Jewish life in our state and build meaningful collaborations between different Jewish and non-Jewish organizations.

For more information, including applications and timeline, visit www.jewishallianceri.org/MicroGrants/

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porary design label based in Rhode Island (www. amypagedeblasio.com; Facebook and InstaGram: @APDPVD).

Cohen has an extensive background in the fashion-management world, including a master’s degree in global fashion management from the Fashion Institute of Technology, in New York City. She has been a fashion lecturer and blogger in New York, and previously was ZARA Israel’s training and development department manager, responsible for the fashion, leadership and training of 1,700 employees in over 50 stores.

The program, “Fashion Illuminates the History of Israel,” is co-sponsored by the Brown-RISD Hillel Foundation and the Consulate General of Israel to New England. It presented at no charge as one of many this year in celebration of Israel’s 75th anniversary.

The program will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m. at the Alliance’s Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. For more information, contact Elihay Skital, community shaliach/Israeli emissary, at 401-421-4111 or ESkital@ jewishallianceri.org. To register for the program, go to jewishallianceri.org/ fashion/.

A similar program will be held at 7 p.m. on Nov. 17 at the Higgins Visitor Center of the University of Rhode Island, 45 Upper College Road, South Kingstown. This program is co-sponsored by URI Hillel, Congregation Beth David and the Consulate General of Israel to New England.

LARRY KATZ (lkatz@ jewishallianceri.org) is the director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

NOVEMBER 2022 | 21

jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY

Erin Minior, head of Jewish Collaborative Services, to retire

BY JESSICA MURPHY PROVIDENCE – Erin Minior, president and chief executive officer of Jewish Collaborative Services, is retiring this month.

Minior, who announced her plans to retire in February, has led JCS as president and CEO since its creation, in 2018, from the union of Jewish Family Services and the Jewish Seniors Agency.

Previously, she was president and CEO at JFS. During her 25 years with JFS and now JCS, Minior was also a teacher and mentor.

She worked in the Doctoring Program at Brown University’s Warren Alpert School of Medicine and as a field supervisor for the Rhode Island College School of Social Work.

Prior to joining JFS, Minior was the director of social work at Roger Williams Med-

ical Center and the director of the Fall River Council on Aging.

“Erin’s skills as a social worker, mentor, administrator, communicator and leader have enabled JCS to expand the support we offer to the Jewish community and beyond,” said Patty Harwood, chief of programs at JCS and Minior’s longtime colleague and friend.

Minior’s dedication to the field is also supported by her work on the boards of multiple organizations, including the Somerset Council on Aging, Big Brothers Big Sisters, The CEO Council of the Association of Jewish Family and Children’s Agencies (AJFCA), the Advisory Council of Bristol Elder Services and the Massachusetts Council of Family Servicing Agencies.

Speaker inspires local students

Though Minior’s history in the field of social work is extensive, she said she is most proud of her work with JFS and JCS, which started in 1997.

“Twenty-five years ago, my desire to work at JFS stemmed from my Jewish roots and desire to gain greater insight and association with Jewish culture and my identity,” Minior said.

“I am grateful to have spent

‘I am grateful to have spent 25 years with this amazing agency’ 25 years with this amazing agency and deeply honored to have led it through the union of JFS and JSA to what it is today, JCS, a process that took many years.”

Under Minior’s leadership, many additional significant accomplishments were achieved, including increasing JFS’ budget and the number of clients served by more than a third; developing vital programs such as Kesher and Case Management; and securing funding to purchase and build out the main office building in Providence where JCS is housed, at 1165 North Main. St., Providence.

In addition, Minior adds, “The board, our senior leadership team and I have laid out the groundwork for future long-term planning by undergoing an extensive program evaluation process that will help guide JCS for many years to come. This gives me great confidence in JCS’ future successes.”

Marisa Garber, who has worked side by side with Minior, most recently completing

her third year as JCS board chair, said, “The progress and advancement of our agency has blossomed under Erin’s wise and watchful eye as she leaves JCS in a stronger position to face future challenges.”

Minior’s passion for JCS’ mission will not stop. She plans to work with the JCS Board of Directors and her successor, bringing new services to our housing communities.

For now, Minior, a Massachusetts native, plans to welcome her first grandson and spend much of her newly found time gardening and with family.

JESSICA MURPHY is the marketing and communications manager for Jewish Collaborative Services.

Jay Strauss to receive Hall of Fame honor

Jay Strauss Jacqueline Murekatete THE SANDRA BORNSTEIN Holocaust Education Center brought Rwandan genocide survivor, Jacqueline Murekatete, to speak to over 500 students and educators from across Rhode Island.

Ms. Murekatete gave her testimony of survival and compelled the students to speak out in the face of rising antisemitism and pervasive racism. The event was hosted by the Moses Brown School.

JUSTIN “JAY” STRAUSS is being posthumously inducted into the R.I. Aviation Hall of Fame on Nov. 19, 2022.

He is being honored for his outstanding military career as well as his illustrious charitable civilian flights, spanning 65 years and 12,000 hours.

He was a 1st Lt. in the US Air Force from 1954-1958, serving in the Strategic Air Command division flying the KC97 multi-engine aircraft and refueling airborne combat jets.

He was also proficient in flying single-en-

gine aircraft.

Strauss, a native Rhode Islander and former editor of the Jewish Herald, was the subject of a 2014 article in the then Jewish Voice, “A Man with a Mission.” You can read it at jewishrhody.com/stories/a-manwith-a-mission,2889?

He is part of the 20th group of honorees.

The R.I. Aviation Hall of Fame is having an in-person event this year for the first time since 2019. For more information, go to riahof.org.

22 | NOVEMBER 2022

Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

COMMUNITY

Israeli fashion designer to speak at URI ISRAELI FASHION DESIGNER Liraz Cohen will speak at the University of Rhode Island on Nov. 17 as Israeli fashions are modeled by URI students and members of Congregation Beth David.

At URI, Cohen will take the audience on a journey through the decades of Israeli couture with the use of props, video, audio, still photography and live models. She will discuss the influence of immigrants on Israeli fashion and the role that feminism and kibbutz life have played in creating a signature style.

Katelyn Luster, who is majoring in Textile Merchandise and Design (TMD) at URI, and who will be one of the student models, said she’s excited about Cohen’s visit.

“It is a phenomenal opportunity for my fellow TMD students to hear from someone working in the industry and to learn about how a country’s culture influences its fashion,” she said.

nity Center in Providence on Nov. 16.

The program is sponsored by the University of Rhode Island Hillel, with support from the URI College of Business, the URI Multicultural Student

‘It is a phenomenal opportunity for students to hear from someone working in the industry...’

Cohen’s presentation, which is free and open to the public, will take place on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m., in the Hope Room of the Higgins Welcome Center, 45 Upper College Road, Kingston, R.I. Register at urihillel.org.

Cohen is speaking at the Dwares Jewish Commu-

Services Center, Congregation Beth David, of Narragansett, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and the Consulate General of Israel to New England.

Submitted by the University of Rhode Island Hillel

Chace Ruttenberg & Freedman, LLP is pleased to announce that

Mary B. (Poirier) Catala former Law Clerk to The Honorable Maureen McKenna Goldberg of the Rhode Island Supreme Court and The Honorable Brian P. Stern of the Rhode Island Superior Court has joined the firm as an associate.

Chace Ruttenberg & Freedman, LLP Attorneys at Law

Dec. program to answer the question ‘Why do Jewish?’

BY LARRY KATZ IN AN ERA when we can choose our own identities, why might we choose to identify as Jews?

On Dec. 1, on Zoom, Zack Bodner answers this question and others in his presentation, which has the same title as his new book: “Why Do Jewish? A Manifesto for 21st Century Jewish Peoplehood.”

Bodner, the CEO of the Oshman Family Jewish Community Center, in Palo Alto, California, also discusses how to have a more meaningful life; the next era for Jews, Jewish Peoplehood 4.0, a road map for the 21st century; and “the next big Jewish idea.”

In addition to providing an accessible guide for anyone looking for answers to life’s most important questions, Bodner will consider how Jewish institutions should orient themselves in this new age. He proposes a creative framework for “doing Jewish” based on an acronym from the Yiddish word tachlis, which means “getting down to brass tacks.”

Bodner will also suggest programs and points of view that will attract Jews to “do Jewish.” His ideas have driven the programming at his JCC for the past several years and heavily influenced programs at many other JCCs and other institutions.

Zack Bodner is a seeker, writer, storyteller, community organizer and, above all

else, a doer. He has been CEO of the Oshman Family JCC for a decade, and before that, he worked for 14 years at AIPAC. He is a MOTH storyteller and TEDx presenter.

Putting his ideas into practice at the Oshman JCC, Bodner oversaw the creation of a new Center for Social Impact (www.paloaltojcc.org/csi), launched the Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood (www. paloaltojcc.org/jewish-life) and began hosting an annual conference called Zionism 3.0, which became The Z3 Project (www.z3project.org), a global effort to reimagine Diaspora-Israel relations.

“Why Do Jewish? A Manifesto for 21st Century Jewish Peoplehood” will be presented at no charge on Zoom on Thursday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m., as part of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s Behind The Book Series and in cooperation with the Jewish Book Council. For more information, contact Larry Katz, Alliance director of Jewish life and learning, at 401-421-4111 or lkatz@jewishallianceri.org.

To register for the program and get the Zoom link, go to www.jewishallianceri.org/ why-do-jewish.

LARRY KATZ (lkatz@ jewishallianceri.org) is the director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

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PHOTOS | BOB FRICKLAS

Greater Providence Hebrew Free Loan Association

ON OCT. 10, members of Congregation Beth David and St. Peter’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church gathered at Narragansett Town Beach to help clean up the beach. The event was jointly sponsored by the Beth David’s Tikkun Olam committee and the church.

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COMMUNITY

Sukkot in Rhody

The Newport Havurah recently gathered at the home of Mary and Howard Newman to decorate and celebrate Sukkot.

Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman leads services for the congregation at Temple Habonim during Sukkot.

Celebrate Shabbat with the Shabbat Project JOIN THE GREATER Providence and Southern New England community in celebrating this year’s Shabbat Project! Brainchild of Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein of South Africa, the Shabbat Project is a bastion of unity in a divided world, heralded by the Jerusalem Post as “The most ambitious Jewish identity initiative ever undertaken.” Beginning Nov. 8 with the annual

Women’s Challah Bake, and continuing with a gala Shabbat dinner and Oneg on Nov. 11, come partake in the warmth and depth of Shabbbat together with our community. Whether this will be your first time experiencing Shabbat, or you’re a Shabbat regular, we’re all in this one together. Please email shabbatproject. prov@gmail.com for more info. Looking forward!

Herb Meister goes on Honor Flight

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.

The harvest is about to begin! Order now to receive your oil in time for Hanukkah... Makes a great gift!

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.

PHOTO | STEVEN ADLER

Herb Meister, a resident of the Phyllis Siperstein Tamarisk Assisted Living Residence in Warwick, participated in the Oct. 15 Rhode Island Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Interim Director of Operations Susan Adler greeted him on his return from the nation’s capital. These Rhode Island flights are sponsored by the Rhode Island Fire Chiefs. This flight was the 27th in the nationwide program, which offers all veterans a full day of sightseeing in Washington, D.C.

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NEW 2023 RANGE ROVER VELAR

THE AVANT-GARDE RANGE ROVER

Refinement and Luxury Immerse yourself in Range Rover Velar. A calm sanctuary and elegant simplicity await.

Land Rover Warwick 1346 Bald Hill Rd, Warwick, RI 02886 www.landroverwarwick.com Vehicle shown: 2023 Land Rover Velar. Vehicle Image for illustrative purposes only. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. These systems are not a substitute for driving safely with due care and attention and will not function under all circumstances, speeds, weather and road conditions, etc. Driver should not assume that these systems will correct errors of judgment in driving. Do not use Land Rover InControl® or Pivi Pro features under conditions that will affect your safety or the safety of others. Drzziving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control. Land Rover InControl has a number of purchasing options available. As we systematically roll out the Land Rover InControl suite of products, specific features, options and availability remain market dependent. Certain Pivi Pro features use an embedded SIM card, and may require a data plan with separate terms and conditions and an additional subscription after an initial term. Mobile connectivity cannot be guaranteed in all locations. The Land Rover InControl AppsTM and Land Rover RemoteTM smartphone apps will work with AndroidTM devices from version 4.1 and Apple® devices from iOS 7.0 and must be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Please see your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for more details, visit LANDROVERUSA.COM or call 1-800-FIND-4WD / 1-800-346-3493. © 2021 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

DEMOCRAT FOR SECRETARY OF STATE Gregg has a plan for this office.

GreggForRI.com

hello@GreggForRI.com 401.203.7195

Fight against any and all attacks on voting rights Expand civics education in our schools Ensure safe, secure, fair elections Ensure equal access to the voting booth Streamline the process for business owners to start and run their business Keep our government open and accessible Vote by November 8th | General Election

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

Live Life to the Fullest

COMMUNITY

Reading together at JCDSRI

Lock in rates fo 2 years r Sign by December 31st Lock in 2022 rates now through 2024 Come live joyfully & confidently in a friendly, active community with an experienced staff always by your loved one’s side!

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PHOTOS | JCDSRI

The Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island reading buddy program is a highlight for the students and teachers each year. First and third graders were psyched to get started this year! They meet weekly and find common interests, become acquainted with new genres and practice their reading skills.

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jewishrhody.org | Jewish Rhode Island

COMMUNITY

Israeli olive oil is flowing to R.I. from adopted trees

BY LARRY KATZ ISRAELI OLIVE OIL experts believe that this year’s harvest will yield superb oil since the weather has been great for olive trees in Israel.

Through the My Tree in Israel program, Rhode Islanders can adopt a tree and get their own private-label olive oil in time for Hanukkah – the holiday that celebrates the miracle of the olive oil.

Bottles of cold-pressed extra-virgin Israeli olive oil, with your personal label on them, can enhance your own cooking and make great gifts. In addition, you will be helping Israeli farmers maintain their groves, and will build your personal connection to Israel.

The olive grove for the My Tree in Israel program 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. Six bottles are produced per tree, and the labels can be personalized in whatever manner the sponsor chooses, for a truly unique and

personalized product.

Kobi Asaf, who founded My Tree in Israel, envisioned it as a way for people from around the world to connect with Israel in a personal way as well as to promote and support Israeli farmers.

Adoptions through the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island ensure that the tree is located in Afula-Gilboa, the Alliance’s partnership area in Israel. A portion of the fees supports the Alliance’s annual campaign and is tax deductible.

And yes, you may visit your tree in Israel! And, to further personalize the tree, you can obtain a dedication plaque for the tree, or trees, you adopt.

Trees have already been adopted by people throughout North America, Europe and Africa. Act quickly to ensure your own brand of olive oil from this year’s harvest!

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

Represent RI at the Maccabiah Games 2023!

THE MACCABIAH GAMES is the Jewish Olympics for teenagers.

Teenagers ages 12-17 represent Rhode Island in their sport for one week in Fort Lauderdale or three weeks in Israel. The Maccabiah is a celebration of Jewish unity, culture, and heritage through world athletic competition.

For more information, contact Jimmy Rawl at jrawl@jewishallianceri.org or 401-421-4111, ext. 140.

Come learn more at an information meeting on Nov. 14 at 6:15 p.m.

Come join the fun!

small shipping fee to receive them directly at any address.

More information about adopting a tree is available at www.jewishallianceri.org/My-Tree or by contacting Larry Katz at lkatz@jewishallianceri.org.

LARRY KATZ (jkatz@jewishallianceri. org) is the director of Jewish life and learning at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

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BUSINESS

JFF’s donor advised funds make charitable giving easy

BY CLAIRE UZIEL This appeared in a previous issue of JRI and has been updated.

DUE TO THE phenomenon called year-end giving, charities across the country receive a big influx of donations between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. People who want to help out tear a few checks from their checkbook or jump from website to website to send contributions to groups as near as up the street and as far as across the planet. But there’s a better way to make charitable donations!

You can create a personal philanthropy account that operates year-round by establishing a donor-advised fund, or DAF, with the Jewish Fed-

eration Foundation of Greater Rhode Island. Just make tax-deductible gifts to your DAF and then recommend distributions from the fund to qualified charitable organizations of your choosing. The JFF takes care of the rest.

The JFF manages the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s endowment, and all DAFs are invested as part of the endowment. There are currently 126 DAFs totaling more than $20.5 million.

Your DAF will grow as the endowment grows, giving you more money to give to charities. You may also choose to name successor advisers, who can step up if you are no longer able to advise on the fund’s distributions. This gives you an extra advantage: an opportunity to discuss the

value of philanthropy and promote multigenerational giving.

Benefits of a JFF DAF: • EASE: You tell JFF where to send the grant and the agency takes care of the rest, including confirming the organization’s IRS status, verifying contact information, sending the grant and sending you a copy of the grant letter for your records.

• ONLINE PORTAL: JFF’s donor platform allows you to submit grant requests electronically and view your fund value, statements and transactions in one place.

• CONVENIENCE: You no longer need to file receipts for every donation to every

organization – you get a tax deduction for contributions to your DAF and that’s it.

• OPPORTUNITY: Teaching the next generation about your charitable priorities and the importance of supporting your community.

• ACCESS: JFF’s partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation creates more investment options.

• TAX SAVINGS: Additional tax savings if you use appreciated securities or properties to contribute to the fund, plus no income tax on investment returns.

Why set up a DAF with JFF? • ACCESSIBLE: The minimum initial gift to create a JFF DAF is just $2,500 – sig-

•

• • •

nificantly less than most DAFs. COMMUNITY SUPPORT: When you add your DAF to JFF, you increase the total endowment and help grow the community’s resources. You also serve as a role model, communicating your philanthropic priorities to friends and family.

PERSONALIZED SERVICE LOW ADMINISTRATION FEE For more information, email endowment@jewishallianceri.org.

CLAIRE UZIEL (cuziel@ jewishallianceri.org) is the Endowment/Campaign operations manager at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

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OBITUARIES Doris Ann Berger, 81

FAIRHAVEN, MASS. – Doris Ann (Bodek) Berger, of Fairhaven, passed away Oct. 3, 2022, at her residence after a brief illness. She was the wife of David E. Berger, with whom she shared 58 years of marriage. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a daughter of the late Ralph and Leona (Rosenthal) Bodek, Doris lived in Fairhaven for over 50 years.

Doris was a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years. Not only did she run a private therapy practice, she was known to tirelessly lend an ear to family and friends alike, giving thoughtful advice. She was the eternal optimist and had a calming and nurturing presence. She loved to play the 12-string guitar and sing folk tunes, and she held a world record for the longest phone conversation with her grandkids. She focused on wellness for most of her life and made a mean miso soup! Although she never wore a drop of makeup, she had an inner radiance.

Doris held a profound integrity and strength of spirit.

In addition to her husband, survivors include two children: Rachel Berger and her significant other, Chris Vaillancourt, of Dartmouth; and Aaron Berger and his wife Jennifer Berger of Andover and their children (Doris’ grandchildren), Dante, Genevieve and Mariella; 5 siblings and many nieces and nephews.

Donations may be made to Doctors Without Borders, P.O. Box 5030, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5030 or The Climate Foundation, 113 Cherry St. #48631, Seattle, WA 98104.

Rosalie Buckler, 94

WARWICK, R.I. – Rosalie Rebecca (Kessler) Buckler passed away on Oct. 3, 2022.

Born in Providence on Nov. 8, 1927, the daughter of the late Jacob and Sarah (Feldman) Kessler, Rosalie graduated from Hope High School and managed the family business Kessler’s Bakery with her parents and late husband, Ralph Buckler, until it closed in 1973. She then began a 20-year career at A.T. Cross.

After her retirement, she volunteered at The Miriam and Women & Infants Hospitals and worked part time as a

supermarket product demonstrator.

In recent years, Rosalie was a background actor in film, commercial and TV productions and was featured as a dying nursing home resident in “Abe and Phil’s Last Poker Game” alongside legendary actors Martin Landau and Paul Sorvino. She loved to dance when the music moved her – even while walking through Old Navy at Warwick Mall. Her passion was cheering the female wrestlers of the WWE and she was an avid fan of “The Sopranos,” New England Patriots, and boxer Vinny Pazienza.

The family will remember her delicious Bubbie Burgers, kugel, latkes and American chop suey.

Rosalie leaves her son Gary Buckler of Warwick and daughter Debbie Rich with whom she lived at Wethersfield Commons, three incredible grandchildren for whom she loved to buy saxophones and drum kits and cruise with on the high seas or down Whipple Road in Lincoln: Tara Buckler of East Providence, Jeremy Rich of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Justin Rich of Van Nuys, California. She also leaves her sister-in-law Elaine Silva, many nieces and nephews, cousins, good friends and her toy poodle, Lady. She was the sister of the late Morton Kessler of Providence.

Rosalie’s family wishes to give special thanks to the dedicated caregivers of HopeHealth Hospice and St. Elizabeth’s Green House #15 for their exceptional care. Upon her death, Rosalie entered the Health Sciences Anatomical Gift Program at the Tufts University School of Medicine.

Please remember her generous spirit by donating to your favorite charity.

Anne Fishbein, 82

CHANDLER, ARIZ. – Anne T. Fishbein passed away on Oct. 10, 2022, in Chandler.

Anne was born on March 14, 1940, to Nathan and Ella (Stone) Moskowitz in Bronx, New York. After graduating from Forest Hills High School in 1957, she attended Rhode Island College, where she studied nursing, while juggling the care of two young children. Anne earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1978, graduating with honors.

She was a proud member of the Sigma Theta Tau Interna-

tional Honor Society of Nursing, Delta Upsilon Chapter.

Upon graduation, Anne began work as a medical/ surgical Registered Nurse at The Miriam Hospital in Providence. Thereafter, Anne embarked on a rewarding 25-year career at Northern Rhode Island Community Services in Woonsocket, where she received special recognition for her dedication in the field of mental illness.

Anne participated in several organizations. She served as vice president of B’nai B’rith International; she was a life member of Hadassah and she was a proud red hat-wearing member of the Red Hatters.

Anne was known and dearly loved for her mischievous, warm and larger-than-life character. Many who had the pleasure of speaking with Anne justifiably questioned whether she was born with a “filter.” Nevertheless, if she ever had one, it had certainly been long-lost somewhere in the Bronx many decades ago, allowing her family and friends to truly enjoy and embrace the gift of her spirited and entertaining personality.

Through the years, Anne enjoyed her adventures while traveling throughout Europe and Canada with her longtime companion, Bruce Decker.

After retiring from nursing, she moved to Casa Grande, Arizona, where she had many close and cherished friends, to whom the family is eternally grateful.

Anne was predeceased by her parents, Nathan and Ella Moskowitz, her sister, Rose Zimmerman, her dear cousin, Anne Weiss, and her two beloved cats, Elijah Blue and Solitaire. She is survived by her children, Leslie Fishbein (Thomas Sebestyen) and Richard Fishbein (Roberta); grandchildren (“her chiblings”) Arielle Sebestyen, Dana Sebestyen, Emma Fishbein and Zachary Fishbein; her much-loved cat, “Zach The Cat”; her former spouse, Stanley Fishbein; and countless other loved ones.

The family would like to thank the wonderful hospice team at Stillwater Hospice and all the amazing caregivers at Canyon Assisted Living who took such loving care of Anne in her final months, and who also did not bat an eye when we snuck in Mongolian Beef and Cherry Garcia Ice Cream.

Donations may be made to the National Institute of Mental Health or the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

Helene Fleisher, 76

UXBRIDGE, MASS. – Lani Fleisher passed away on Oct. 10, 2022, at her home in Uxbridge. She was the beloved wife of Ira Fleisher for 52 years. Born in New York City, New York, a daughter of the late Morris and Lillian (Misicoff) Mendelson, she had lived in Uxbridge for five years, previously living in Warwick.

A teacher until becoming a full-time mom, she later worked with her husband at Dee Jewelry Manufacturing Co., and at Mastercraft Jewelry retiring five years ago.

Lani was a member of Temple Emanu-El and an associate member of Temple Torat Yisrael.

She was the devoted mother of Jeffrey Fleisher and his wife, Joanna, of Natick, Massachusetts, and Staci Fleisher of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. She was the dear sister of Alix Eskin and her husband, Henry, of Wisconsin.

She was the loving grandmother of Abby.

Contributions may be made to Louis & Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry, 1165 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02906.

Jorge Gardos, 91

WARWICK, R.I. – Jorge Gardos died Oct. 13, 2022, at home.

He was the beloved husband of Donna (Robbins) Gardos for 30 years.

Born in Budapest, Hungary,

a son of the late Nandor and Ilona (Desser) Gardos, he had lived in Warwick for over 30 years, previously living in Caracas, Venezuela, and New York City. Jorge was a Holocaust survivor of the Budapest Ghetto and escaped Communist Hungary in 1956 during the Hungarian Revolution. A concert violinist, conductor and educator, he went on to perform throughout South America, the United States and Europe. He remained deeply committed to teaching music until the end of his life.

Jorge is survived by his daughter, Catherine Gardos Reid, her husband, Michael, and grandson, Reuben, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and his son, Thomas Gardos, wife, Elizabeth Zimmermann, and grandchildren, Noah and Sophie, of Barrington.

Contributions in his memory may be made to US Holocaust Memorial Museum, 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place SW, Washington, DC 20024.

Barry Guy, 75

WARWICK, R.I. – Barry Lee Guy passed away on his 75th birthday, Oct. 20, 2022, at West Shore Health Center in Warwick.

He was the beloved husband of Karin (Keller/Ganley) Guy for 25 years. Born in Providence, son of the late Bernard and Bernice (Goldsmith) Guy, he had lived in Warwick for many years.

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Jewish Rhode Island | jewishrhody.org

OBITUARIES Barry went to the University of Rhode Island, graduating with a bachelor’s in management in 1968. Following graduation, he was given the first opportunity in his long career by the Sears Corporation, and he proudly opened its first store on Cape Cod. He took immense pride in his successful career in retail and management where he served as a mentor to many along the way and until his retirement. Barry also served in the Rhode Island National Guard, and, though he never deployed, he was recognized for expert marksmanship during basic training.

He was the devoted father of Jason Guy and his wife, Elizabeth Shen, both of Audubon, Pennsylvania, and stepfather of the late Dana Keller.

He was the dear brother of Howard Guy and his wife, Elaine Guy, of Mentor, Ohio, and uncle of Jeremy Guy, also of Mentor. He was the loving grandfather of EJ, Angelina, Nicholas, Ashley and Jayden.

He was the brother-in-law of Christine Keller and husband, Richard Keller; Bryan Ganley and his wife, Virginia Cassieri; Marc Ganley and his wife, Connie Ganley.

Contributions may be made to: The Samaritans of Rhode Island, online at http://www. samaritansri.org/product/ donation or by mail at The Samaritans, Inc. P.O. Box 9086, Providence, RI 02940.

Marvin Jacobson, 85

CRANSTON, R.I. – Marvin G. Jacobson died Oct. 16, 2022, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence.

He was the beloved husband of Arleen

(Perler) Jacobson for 62 years.

Born in Providence, a son of the late Joseph and Etta (Seltzer) Jacobson, he had lived in Cranston, previously living in Providence. He was an office supply sales representative for over 40 years, retiring 20 years ago. Marvin was a member of Touro Fraternal Association, Roosevelt Lodge of the Masons, Temple Sinai and its Brotherhood, and the RI Air National Guard. He was an avid sports fan. He graduated from Bryant College in 1959.

He was the devoted father of David Jacobson and his wife, Hillary, of Framingham, Massachusetts, and Debbie Shapiro and her husband, Todd, of Cranston. He was the loving grandfather of Josh and his fiancée Ann-Marie, Eric, Matthew and Madison.

Contributions may be made to Temple Sinai or the charity of your choice.

David Jagolinzer, 48

CORAL GABLES, FLA. – David Aaron Jagolinzer passed away on Oct. 18, 2022.

David was born on May 4, 1974, in Providence. He grew up in Cranston with his parents and brother. David graduated from Moses Brown School in 1992 and went on to attend Boston College where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature and a minor degree in Italian studies. David studied abroad in Florence, Italy, during college where he first fell in love with Italy. David moved to Miami where he attended the University of Miami School of Law and graduated in 1999 with a Juris Doctor degree. David spoke fluent

Italian and interned in Milan, Italy during law school before permanently calling Miami home.

For the last 23 years, David was a well-known litigator in South Florida where he was a shareholder of the Ferraro Law Firm. David was a licensed attorney in Florida, Massachusetts, New York, Illinois, Rhode Island and Washington D.C. His successful career focused on litigation of complex cases involving victims of mesothelioma and other cases involving toxic torts, product liability and wrongful death.

David resided in Coral Gables with his family and two dogs where he loved cooking Sunday dinners, spending time at the beach, working out in the gym, jet-skiing with his daughters and hanging out at home with his wife. David frequently traveled all over the world but nothing made him happier than his trips to Italy.

The love he had for his family and time spent together was what he held to be the most sacred part of life.

David is survived by his wife, Anna (Hanks) Jagolinzer, daughters, Jayden and Logan Jagolinzer, parents, Judith and Stephen Jagolinzer, and his brother, Michael Jagolinzer. David is preceded in death by his grandparents, James Lombardi and Max and Anna Jagolinzer.

Donations may be made to the following charities: Mission 22, 694 N Larch St., Sisters, OR 97759 https:// mission22.networkforgood. com/. Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, 1615 L St. NW, Suite 430, Washington, DC 20036 https:// www.curemeso.org/donate/ donate-online/. Best Buddies, 100 Southeast Second St., Suite 2200, Miami, FL 33131 https://www.bestbuddies.org/ donate-to-best-buddies/

Ronald Levenson, 92

WARWICK, R.I. – Ronald Burton Levenson passed away on Oct. 6, 2022, at Brentwood by the Bay in Warwick. He rejoins the late love of his life, Beulah (Mellitz) Levenson.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was a son of the late Harry and Esther (Levitt) Levenson.

After being raised in Pennsylvania, he met and married Beulah, while working in

Bridgeport, Connecticut, and together they moved to Cranston where they remained until her passing. He then moved to the Royal Crest Apartments in Warwick. He was a wholesale purchaser of clothing and merchandise and worked for several companies, including The Outlet Company, before his retirement.

Ronald was a Korean conflict Army veteran, serving stateside. He was incredibly proud of the medical work that he did with the Army and spoke fondly about his time and his fellow soldiers.

Though the hands of time kept them apart, Ron loved his niece and nephew, Dara and David, unconditionally and continued to love them as best he could in the memory of his sister, Joyce T. Klein.

Contributions may be made to Chabad of West Bay Chai Center, 3871 Post Road, Warwick, RI.

Brown School, Jewish Federation of RI, The Miriam Hospital, Women & Infant's Hospital, Foundation for Repertory Theater, Handel and Hayden Society, Temple Emanu-El, RI Small Claims Court and Community Mediation Center of RI. He is survived by his wife, Myrna K. Rosen, whom he adored and loved unconditionally. In addition to his wife, he leaves behind three children and their spouses, Elizabeth Rosen Payne (Mark), John Rosen (Ashley) and Robert Rosen and two stepdaughters, Sally Lapides (Arthur Solomon) and Wendy Lapides (John McCann). He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Donations may be sent to The Sunshine Fund at Jewish Collaborative Services at 1165 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904.

Muriel Nirenberg, 93

ANNAPOLIS, MD. – Betsy Brown Ruzzi passed quietly in her sleep on Oct. 12, 2022, surrounded by her loved ones. Betsy's tenacious attitude enabled her to battle breast cancer for five years, completing numerous trials in her efforts to stay ahead of the disease.

Born in Providence, Betsy graduated from Classical High School, going on to receive an undergraduate degree at Boston University and a master's in public policy at George Washington University. She worked in education policy for over 37 years, helping to establish the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards and the Institute for School Leadership and New Standards. The fundamental lesson from her scholarship was that U.S. schools were falling behind their peers and would continue to do so without significant intervention. Over the decades, Betsy worked to identify the core elements of top-performing global education systems as vice president of the National Center on Education and the Economy. These efforts culminated in a new law in the state of Maryland that established the blueprint for adopting best practices for U.S. schools.

An avid sailor and lively personality, Betsy made friends everywhere she went.

Betsy was constantly surrounded by her loving family and devoted friends, including her husband Joseph Ruzzi; her

BOYNTON BEACH, FLA. – Muriel (Castleman) Nirenberg of Boynton Beach, formerly of Woonsocket, passed away on Oct. 5, 2022. She was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Ida (Baskin) Castleman.

She is survived by her daughter, Gayle Cohen, of Glenview, Illinois; two grandsons, Stephen and Peter Ritzau; four great-grandchildren, Wesley, Skylar, Samuel and Timothy Ritzau. She is also survived by her sister, Sandra Brown, of Boynton Beach. She was the mother of the late Linda Ritzau.

Harris Rosen, 89

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Harris Rosen, of Providence, died peacefully overnight on Oct. 22, 2022. Born in Providence he was the son of Samuel Rosen and Gertrude Woolfe Rosen who pre-deceased him.

Born in Providence in 1932, he was a lifelong Rhode Island resident. After attending Moses Brown School and Harvard College, he served in the US Army Ordinance Corps as a financial control officer.

After his military service, he returned to Rhode Island to help manage his family's business, School House Candy Company, for the ensuing 42 years. Later in life, he became a mediator and an author, writing a book to guide families as they dealt with the loss of a loved one.

He believed deeply in community service. He served many organizations in a volunteer capacity, including United Jewish Appeal, Moses

Betsy Ruzzi, 60

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OBITUARIES children, Michael Ruzzi and Dr. Sara Ruzzi; her parents Susan and Charles Hahn; her late father Louis Reyn Brown; her sisters Amy Blau and Judy Stoer; brothers Marc (Robin), Jeffrey (Lorri) and Michael (Elizabeth) Hahn; and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Donations may be made to the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club.

Selma Savage, 96

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Selma H. Savage, of Providence, died at home on Oct. 19, 2022. Selma was intellectually curious, a voracious reader, a talented painter and lover of art, history, classical music, opera, flowers and carousel horses.

The Savage family matriarch, she loved all things family.

She was the beloved wife of the late Julian B. Savage for over 60 years. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Myron and Fannie (Shapiro) Herman.

She was the devoted and loving mother of Robert S. Savage, and his wife, Dianne, of Cranston and Jonathan N. Savage, and his wife, Judith, of Providence; and dear sister of the late Eleanor Sacks of Akron, Ohio.

She was the proud grandmother of and friend to Justin B. Savage, and his wife, Elizabeth, of Providence, Jeremy B. Savage, and his wife, Katherine, of Rumford and Julia M. Savage of Anchorage, Alaska. She was the cherished great-grandmother of Julian N. Savage, Charles D. Savage and James F. Savage.

Selma was owner of the former Myron Herman Co./ Herman’s Furniture Galleries where she instilled her artistic vision, retiring in 1997.

She was a member of Temple Beth-El and the Providence Art Club, friend of Brandeis University, and active with the League of Women Voters and Planned Parenthood. A graduate of Hope High School, Selma received a bachelor’s degree from Pembroke College (Brown University) in 1948 and did graduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Contributions may be made to Temple Beth-El (Providence), Planned Parenthood, or WGBH, all important to Selma throughout her life.

Jean Silverstein, 93

DARTMOUTH, MASS. – Jean Harriett Silverstein, of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22, 2022, at St. Luke’s Hospital.

Jean was fiercely caring and selflessly nurturing. She kept one drawer for greeting cards and never missed a birthday. She kept another drawer full of cookies and sweets at the ready for her grandkids.

She was a wonderful cook, famous for her brisket and key lime pie, a skilled card player, a fashion icon. She loved travel, film and television, and – more than anything – her family.

She was the devoted wife to Joseph Silverstein; exceptional mother to Lois Silverstein Kramer, Steve Silverstein and the late David Silverstein; and loving mother-in law to Judy Silverstein and Merrill Kramer.

She spoiled each of her eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Jean was born in Providence on Aug. 4, 1929, to local furriers Rose Lillian Robinson and Alfred Isaac Goodwin (formerly Gubernick). She attended Hope High School and Highland Manor finishing school in Asbury Park, New Jersey.

At 18, Jean was set up on a blind date with a Merchant Marines (and later Navy) officer from New Bedford.

Jean and Joe married within a year and celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary in January.

Jean relished the Navy life, traveling with Joe to port cities across the globe.

Jean was especially fond of Portugal and Italy and road trips they’d frequently take to Key West, tying a sea chest on their beach wagon and driving through the night with a lifelong family friend Richard Moore.

The two eventually set down roots in New Bedford then Dartmouth to raise their family. Joe ran Silverstein’s, the family clothing store, and Jean devoted herself to raising their three children and keeping a warm and welcoming home. It was the place where her children’s friends, and later her grandchildren, wanted to gather after school, because Jean always had treats at the ready and brownies warm from the oven. Jean – who was kind, affectionate

and ready to listen, could always intuit the needs of those around her – was there.

Donations may be made to the Harry and Anna Silverstein Fund through Congregation Tifereth Israel in New Bedford.

Marilyn Solomon, 86

SOMERSET, N.J. – Marilyn Rena Solomon died Oct. 22, 2022, at Stein Assisted Living, Somerset. Born in Pawtucket, to late Louis and Ida (Meizel) Buckbinder, she was the beloved wife of the late Marvin G. Solomon. The family settled in East Brunswick, New Jersey, where Marilyn remained for 44 years. Along with her husband and family, she was a founding member of Temple B'nai Shalom, which provided a foundation in Judaism for their children.

After Marvin passed away unexpectedly in 1981, Marilyn took on work outside the home as a bookkeeper and claims agent while raising their three daughters. She was determined that each of her children achieves their dreams and was very proud of all their accomplishments.

She was the devoted mother of Lori M. Leff and her husband, Kevin, of Highland Park, New Jersey, Nancy I. Lipschutz and her husband, Robert, of Edison, New Jersey, and Dr. Robin K. Solomon of Albany, New York. She was the beloved sister of Sanford “Sandy” Buckbinder, of Providence, the late David Buckbinder and Jerry Buckbinder. She was the cherished grandmother of Miriam, Matan, Eitan, Maxwell and Francine.

Contributions may be made to Temple B’nai Shalom, 15 Fern Road, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 or a charity of your choice.

then in Delray Beach, Florida, for 25 years and she enjoyed her last four years of life in Rhode Island. She and Lenny were avid world travelers.

Mimi is survived by one son, David Solomon, and his wife, Hedy Nuraef, of Margarita Island; one daughter, Judith Monzack, and her husband, Jason, of Warwick; one loving brother, Lawrence Shoglow, and his wife, Carole; cherished grandchildren, Leah Solomon, and her husband, Siggi Bachmann; Joshua Solomon and his wife, Julianna, Liza Solomon, Kayla Monzack and her husband, Joseph Holtschlag, Elyssa Monzack and her husband, Nathan Rentmeester, and Nathaniel Monzack and his wife, Rachael; precious great-grandchildren, Milo, Saevar, Story, Zackary, Arthur, Hannah and Emily; and daughter-in-law, Lissette Erez, and her husband, Miki.

Mimi was the mother of the late Robert Solomon and sister of the late Arthur Shoglow.

The family would like to extend its gratitude to Tamarisk Assisted Living for the care given to Mimi in the last four years. She felt safe, loved and surrounded by dear friends, staff and volunteers there. The family warmly appreciates the kindness from those at HopeHealth Hospice

in Mimi’s final days.

Contributions may be made to Tamarisk Assisted Living, 3 Shalom Drive, Warwick, RI 02886 or HopeHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904.

Alan Wilkes, 69

JOHNSTON, R.I. – Alan Eric Wilkes, of Johnston, died peacefully overnight on Oct. 1, 2022. Born in Providence, he was the son of Barbara Mallack Wilkes and Jack Wilkes who pre-deceased him.

Alan was a special son and brother who was a resident of West Bay Residential for many years. He enjoyed his daily visits to get mail and participating in the Thursday seniors luncheon at the JCC in Providence.

In addition to leaving behind the many friends and support staff he loved at West Bay, he is survived by his brother, Richard Wilkes of Township of Washington, New Jersey, who he adored and with whom he shared a mutual love. He loved his weekly FaceTime calls and monthly visits when his brother would bring him delicious deli from New Jersey.

Donations may be sent to West Bay Residential, 158 Knight St., Warwick, RI 02886.

Miriam Solomon, 96

WARWICK, R.I. – Miriam “Mimi” (Shoglow) Solomon was a bright light whose flame flickered out on Oct. 9, 2022.

She was the loving wife of the late Leonard “Lenny” Solomon, who dazzled her from an early age. They were married for 72 years.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1925, she was a daughter of the late George and Rebecca (Seigel) Shoglow.

She remained in New York with her husband, lived in Hong Kong for eight years, Certified by the Board of Rabbis of Greater Rhode Island Jacquelyn Aubuchon, Funeral Director

�e most important thing you can do while you’re here is to ensure the world will be better when you’re not.

One of life’s great achievements is the ability to leave a lasting legacy.

We can help.

Contact President and CEO Neil Steinberg at nsteinberg@rifoundation.org or (401) 427-4007

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