September 4, 2015 by Jewish Rhode Island

Volume XXI, Issue XVI | www.thejewishvoice.org Serving Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts

20 Elul 5775 | September 4, 2015

What happened locally in 5775?

ROSH HASHANAH HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL A REALITY BY FRAN OSTENDORF

BY JEWISH VOICE STAFF Just in case you can’t remember what happened in the Jewish community of Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, here are a few reminders.

fostendorf@jewishallianceri.org

PHOTO | WATERFIRE PROVIDENCE, JOHN NICKERSON

The Holocaust Memorial glows with 70 lanterns during the WaterFire lighting Aug. 29.

Less than a week after its dedication, the Holocaust Memorial is well on its way to fulfi lling the hopes and dreams of its visionaries. On Aug. 26, a crowd of more than 200 community members and survivors, including clergy from many faiths and local politicians, attended the dedication of the memorial, designed by artist Jonathan Bonner MEMORIAL | 38

Looking back at the highs and lows of 5775 BY URIEL HEILMAN Part one of two NEW YORK (JTA) – As 5775 winds to a close, here’s a look back on the highs and lows (and everything in between) of the fi rst half of the year that was.

David Isenberg

Major renovations begin

Along with the renovations to the Dwares JCC from a major donation from Donald and Bonnie Dwares in the fall of 2013, David Isenberg’s inspiration began in September of 2014 with a gift of $250,000 to the Alliance toward the renovation of the Early Childhood Center (ECC). “It’s an honor and a privilege to be able to do this,” as it moves toward what Isenberg hopes will be a world-class facility. LOCAL | 5775 | 30

September 2014

Cousins and Streit’s co-owners Aron Yagoda, left, and Aaron Gross, right, show oﬀ their matzah with Rabbi Mayer Kirschner, who makes sure everything is kosher.

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• At the annual U.N. General Assembly, President Barack Obama focuses his speech on ISIS, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu likens Iran to ISIS and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani blames the West’s blunders for fomenting the terrorists of ISIS. Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas issues a scathing attack against Israel for its conduct in the summer’s war with Hamas in Gaza.

October 2014

• Rabbi Avi Weiss, an ardent

political activist who espouses a liberal brand of Orthodoxy, announces his planned retirement from the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale in New York. Weiss is the founder of the Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School for men and Yeshivat Maharat for female Orthodox clergy. • “The Death of Klinghoffer” — an opera based on the true story of an elderly American Jewish man killed by terrorists aboard an Italian cruise ship – opens at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York amid protests that the production is anti-Semitic and sympathetic to terrorists. • Chaya Zissel Braun, a 3-month-old American citizen, is killed when a Hamas terrorist crashes a car into a Jerusalem rail station. A second victim, a LOOKING BACK | 28

Happy Rosh Hashanah

COMMUNITY

2 | September 4, 2015

The Jewish Voice

INSIDE

Sharim on the beach

Business 32-33 Calendar 11 Classified 33 Community 2-6, 13-15, 20, 30-31, 38, 40-41 D’Var Torah 10 Food 16-19 Obituaries 36-37 Opinion 8-10, 36 Rosh Hashanah 21-27 Seniors 34-35 Simchas | We Are Read 42 World 12, 28-29, 36, 39

THIS ISSUE’S QUOTABLE QUOTE “Focusing on the positive can have psychologically beneficial ramifications.”

PHOTOS | DENISE RUBIN

On Aug. 28, 85 people celebrated Shabbat on Narragansett Town Beach with Congregation Beth David (CBD) of Narragansett. Rabbi Ethan Adler was accompanied by Denise Heitmann on the guitar, singing traditional songs like Lecha Dodi and Adon Olam. The sun set and a beautiful moon rose on the lovely services. An Oneg followed with wine, juice, pastries and a delicious challah. CBD is hoping to have more such joyful services next summer?

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President Washington returns to Touro Synagogue BY SAM SHAMOON NEWPORT – Two hundred and twenty-five years after George Washington visited Newport, Rhode Island, he made a return visit to read his famous letter to the Hebrew Congregation. That’s right. George Washington – aka actor Matthew Mees – walked into the synagogue and read his letter in dramatic style. Prior to the president’s reading, Touro Synagogue Warden Moses Seixas – aka actor Seàn O’Brien – read his letter. The occasion was the 68th annual reading of the George Washington letter affirming religious tolerance. This year, the reading of the two letters – the first by Seixas and the second penned by President Washington on Aug. 17, 1790 – was by professional actors in full period costume. Prior to the readings, the Alexander George Teitz Award was conferred. The award, established in 1993, is to honor an individual who gives the Washington letter and its words “to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance” a presentday context, embodying the ideals of Washington on religious, ethnic and racial tolerance. Teny Oded Gross, this year’s recipient, was selected for his work in ending senseless violence and intolerance in Providence. As executive director of the Institute for the Study and Practice of Nonviolence, in Providence, he seeks to end violence with nonviolence. His approach is to build relationships with those involved in violence. In his acceptance remarks, Gross exhorted all to combat violence at every level. He said democracy cannot be taken for granted and “violence can lead to Auschwitz.” This year’s keynote speaker was Curtis G. Viebranz, president and chief executive officer of George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. In his address, Viebranz put the Washington letter into historical context by noting that Washington’s visit to Newport in 1790 was to acknowledge Rhode Island as the last of the 13 original states to ratify the

Teny Gross accepts Teitz award from Andrew Teitz (left). U.S. Constitution, in May of that year. Washington traveled from New York with his secretary of state, Thomas Jefferson. During these presidential visits, it was the custom for clergy of many denominations to send or read messages of welcome and approbation honoring George Washington as the first U.S. president. In the spirit of acknowledging the new country and expressing concern for the well-being of the “children of the stock of Abraham,” Moses Seixas, as warden of the Hebrew Congregation, first wrote the now famous phrase “to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.” Viebranz noted that the Jewish population in the new United States in 1790 represented less than one-quarter of 1 percent. He asked why would our nation’s first president write this remarkable letter of hope and assurance to such a tiny group? The answers he posited stemmed from Washington’s concerns that the country might devolve into another monarchy. Washington expressed worries about rivalry between the states, the vulnerability of the young nation, and the danger of economic ruin and renewed war with Great Britain. In June 1783, in his circular to the states, Washington had written of the need for “an indissoluble union of the states under one federal head, a sacred regard for public justice, [and]

Curtis G. Viebranz, president and CEO Mount Vernon

George Washington reads his letter. the prevalence of that pacific and friendly disposition, among the people of the United States, which will induce them to forget their local prejudices and policies, to make those mutual concessions which are requisite to the general prosperity, and in some instances to sacrifice their individual advantages to the interest of the community.” Washington was chosen to serve as our nation’s first president in part because of his strong belief in having the nation transcend religious intolerance, be mindful of celebrating our differences, and harnessing the power of competing thoughts for the common good. In his letter, he says, “the citizens of the United States of America have a right to applaud themselves for having given to mankind examples of an enlarged and liberal policy – a policy worthy of imi-

PHOTOS | SAM SHAMOON

Moses Seixas listens to President Washington, Martha Washington behind him. tation. All possess alike liberty of conscience and immunities of citizenship.” Viebranz concluded with the declaration “e pluribus unum”: from many comes one. He stated, “For this we have paused to celebrate the 225th anniversary of Washington’s letter to the Jewish congregation at Touro” and quoted from the letter: “May the children of the stock of Abraham who dwell in this

land continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants” and “may the Father of all Mercies scatter light, and not darkness, upon our paths….” The event concluded with a festive reception in Patriots Park. SAM SHAMOON, of Providence, is a member of the Touro Synagogue Foundation Board of Directors.

In Israel, the siren you have to worry about is the one you haven’t heard yet. Last summer, no one was expecting Operation Protective Edge. But when rockets started flying, Magen David Adom paramedics were ready to rescue injured Israelis every day thanks to donors like you. As we welcome the new year with reports of continued sporadic rocket fire, we don’t know when the next major attack will come, but we do know now is the time to prepare. Help provide MDA with medical supplies for the next emergency and make a gift today. Thank you and shanah tovah. AFMDA New England PO Box 600714 Newton, MA 02460 Tel 617.916.1827 new-england@afmda.org l

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4 | September 4, 2015

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The Jewish Voice

PHOTOS | SIMON LICHTER

Left to right: Front: Sen. Joshua Miller, Sen. Gayle Golden, Gov. Gina Raimondo, Rep. Mia Ackerman Back: Rep. Aaron Regunberg, Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island Community Relations Council director Marty Cooper, Jewish community member Melvin Alperin, Beth Sholom Rabbi Barry Dolinger

Governor Gina Raimondo

The ‘Mezuzah Law’ is signed On Sept. 1, Governor Gina Raimondo signed into law the “Me-

zuzah Law” guaranteeing the right of condominium owners

and apartment dwellers to post a mezuzah or other religious

artifact on the doorway of their dwelling. The bill was spon-

sored by Sen. Joshua Miller and Rep. Aaron Regunberg.

Come sing with HaZamir Providence BY NAOMI SCHORSCH STEIN The Providence chapter of HaZamir: the International Jewish High School Choir, conducted by Cantor Brian Mayer, is planning a first rehearsal and open house. No preparation is necessary for teens interested in joining for the 20152016 HaZamir season on Sept. 27 at 11:30 a.m. at Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence. Parents and teens are welcome to attend an open house on Oct. 4 at 11:30 a.m. to speak with the leaders and learn more about HaZamir. HaZamir is a Jewish musical youth movement that provides a unique opportunity for Jewish teens of all denominations and backgrounds to sing sophisticated Jewish choral music in a fun, social environment. The Providence chapter is part of the HaZamir network of more than 30 chapters throughout the U.S. and Israel. Indi-

vidual chapters meet weekly in their local cities to learn a common repertoire, then gather together to polish and perform that repertoire at regional, national and international events, culminating in a gala concert with more than 350 performers from America and Israel. Last year’s sold-out gala concert was in Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center and this year’s gala concert will be at Carnegie Hall on April 3, 2016. HaZamir is open to Jewish teens in grades 8 through 12 who meet the HaZamir musical eligibility requirements, The group meets on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El. HaZamir also sponsors a highly selective honors choir – its Chamber Choir – consisting of approximately 50 American and Israeli HaZamir members who are auditioned at an even higher standard than the larger ensemble. HaZamir Chamber

Some of the local members of HaZamir stop for a photo in New York City last year. Choir singers aspire to an even more challenging level of choral music and perform as an independent ensemble at the gala concert. HaZamir offers a college credit program for high school juniors and seniors, accepted at more than 70 prestigious colleges and universities, and facilitates leadership among its

ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Tricia Stearly tstearly@jewishallianceri.org 401-421-4111, ext. 160 EDITOR Fran Ostendorf CONTRIBUTING WRITER Irina Missiuro EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Irina Missiuro | Judith Romney Wegner DESIGN & LAYOUT Leah Camara

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

teens through its Teen Leadership Initiative. Now in its 23rd year, HaZamir is a project of the Zamir Choral Foundation, Matthew Lazar, founder and director. HaZamir Providence is partially supported by the Sylvia Zimet HaZamir Fund and by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. For information on HaZamir,

THE JEWISH VOICE (ISSN number 15392104, USPS #465-710) is published bi-weekly, except in July, when it does not publish. PERIODICALS Postage paid at Providence, R.I. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906. PUBLISHER The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, Chair Sharon Gaines, President/CEO Jeffrey K. Savit, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906. Phone: 401-421-4111 • Fax 401-331-7961 MEMBER of the Rhode Island Press Association

please visit zamirchoralfoundation.org. For information on the Providence chapter please contact Cantor Mayer at bjmayer@teprov.org or 401-331-1616, ext. 22. NAOMI SCHORSCH STEIN is a parent volunteer with HaZamir Providence.

COPY DEADLINES: All news releases, photographs, etc., must be received on the Wednesday two weeks prior to publication. Submissions may be sent to: editor@jewishallianceri.org. ADVERTISING: We do not accept advertisements for pork or shellfish. We do not attest to the kashrut of any product or the legitimacy of our advertisers’ claims. All submitted content becomes the property of The Voice. Announcements and opinions contained in these pages are published as a service to the community and do not necessarily represent the views of The Voice or its publisher, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island.

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September 4, 2015 |

Looking for a job? You’re not alone Vocational Services is here to help BY JENNIFER ZWIRN jzwirn@jewishallianceri.org Since the recession, many people are finding themselves in need of support – even those who never anticipated needing help to find a job, much less needing financial assistance. And when someone is unemployed, or underemployed, it takes a toll in many ways, not just on finances. For some, unemployment affects social or family life. For others, it disrupts absolutely everything, including just getting up in the morning. Job loss is serious and can be a very personal battle – but assistance is available. The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island has created a team that works around-the-clock to help. One Warwick client, a father with two college-aged children, shared recently, “I felt as if I had no purpose when I was laid off in October [2014]. I couldn’t make college payments for my kids, let alone pay the utility bills, particularly during this harsh winter. When you’re not working nor have a daily routine in place as a result, you have potential, but it is to become your own worst enemy. Over time, you just spiral. We’ve all been there at some point.”

And he’s right – all too many know firsthand that being unemployed or underemployed can turn your world upside down. For this reason, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island’s “Living on the Edge” initiative has earmarked funding and manpower to Employment Assistance and Vocation (also referred to as Vocational Assistance) to support those in the Jewish community who are out of work, whether due to a layoff, a medical leave, or reentry into the workforce, so that individuals, families and this community can flourish once again.

Plans that fit individual goals

Assistance from the Living on the Edge initiative comes in many personalized forms – volunteers to move furniture, transportation vouchers for seniors who cannot get around easily, counseling, and now, professional navigation through the job-search process with the goal of providing not a head-hunting service but the community resources and tools required for long-term sustainability and self-sufficiency. Chaired by Susan Bazar and supported by a team of community volunteers, Vocational Assistance incorporates professional networking, résumé-

writing workshops, and one-onone coaching and mentoring, with dignity and respect. “Those pursuing employment in an already difficult market often need an extra layer of support on their side. Committee volunteers assist with finetuning résumés and/or cover letters, practice interviewing skills, and often serve as confidence boosters so clients feel empowered throughout the process,” Bazar says. The customized resources respond to professional needs and objectives. While the range of prospects differs for each client, the goal is the same: long-term employment. Since January, when Vocational Services was launched, many job-seekers have returned to work. “Seeing my goals and professional summary in writing solidified what I know I’m capable of and gave me the confidence I needed to start interviewing. I now work full time in my field of expertise,” reports a Cranston client who reentered the workforce after 13 years as a

stay-at-home mother of three. “It’s not just about getting a job. Working with the Jewish Alliance has supplied me with techniques I know I will use for professional and personal successes in the future.”

What’s next

While the top measure of success will be lower unemployment communitywide, the longer-range goal of Vocational Services is to lead the community toward greater self-sufficiency. Success will be achieved through positive and ongoing net work i n g opp or t u n it ie s, partner agency collaborations, and relationships built between job-seekers and a local cadre of trained volunteers, coaches and mentors. Communication with clients is key to ongoing success. Even after clients have gained employment, regular follow-ups ensure that support does not

simply end. Continued contact with each client remains part of the larger plan, and if a client takes a job just to get back into the workforce or to pay bills, Employment Assistance and Vocation continues to help them find a long-term, careerpath position. Editor’s Note: Vocational Assistance is part of the Living on the Edge initiative, devoted to providing vital safety-net services and support, promoting self-sufficiency, and reducing barriers and increasing access to Jewish life. To learn more about Living on the Edge and how it serves individual needs, go to AccessJewishRI.org or call 401-421-4111, ext. 411. JENNIFER ZWIRN is in planning, endowment and vocational assistance at the Jewish Alliance.

Your Only Rhode Island

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What is a veteran? Did you wear a uniform in service to our country? Were you a Grunt, Coastie, Jarhead, Swabbie, or Flyboy? Were you a WAVE, WAF, WASP, or WAC? Active Duty, Guard or Reserve? Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America is the oldest active Veterans group in the country, established in 1896. We want you to be part of us. Your parents and grandparents were members of JWV, now we need you to continue the tradition going forward. JWV Department of Rhode Island is looking for you. For information contact:

Jewish War Veterans Department of Rhode Island PO Box 100064 | Cranston, RI 02910 by email to: JWV.RI.DEPARTMENT@gmail.com

6 | September 4, 2015

The Jewish Voice

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Rabbi Diamond reflects on life after aliyah BY LINDSAY CHANCELLOR More than a decade has passed, but Rabbi Gail Diamond has never forgotten her New England family. After serving as rabbi and spiritual leader from 1993 to 2000 for Attleboro’s Congregation Agudas Achim, Diamond set off on a new journey which has her returning to lead this year’s High Holy Day services. “I am looking forward to praying again in the beautiful sanctuary and reconnecting with families I have known for more than 20 years,” she says. “I’m also looking forward to tashlikh at the Duck Pond.” For years, Diamond dreamt of living in Israel after spending two years there as a young woman. However, after meeting her partner, Alen Kacal of Trinidad, her plans were placed on hold. By 2000, the couple decided it was time to make aliyah as Kacal faced citizenship issues. “Moving to a new country at the ages of 39 and 35 was not easy,” she says. “But there is nothing that can compare to living in the land of our ancestors with Jews from all over the world. You just have to give it time to adjust, and you cannot come with rose-colored glasses.” Since leaving the congregation, Diamond has achieved great success, both personally and professionally. Her greatest achievement she explains is her two children. Together with Kacal, she has a daughter who became a Bat Mitzvah in June and a son who is 9. She has also continued her spiritual leadership, serving first as assistant and then associate director of the Conservative Yeshiva in Jerusalem. During her 14-year tenure, she

worked with young adults and rabbinical students including Temple Emanu-El’s Rabbi Elan Babchuck. While there she also founded the distance learning program, an online source for articles, videos and daily learning content. This summer, however, she left the Yeshiva in order to devote more time to her family. Eight years ago, Rabbi Diamond began participating as a lay leader for Kehilat Tzur Hadassah, a Reform synagogue affiliated with the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism. There she engages in weekly beit midrash and assists in all aspects of the congregation. “I enjoy helping in all kinds of large and small ways, like setting up chairs and whatever else needs doing.” She adds, “Just last year, we received a grant to do joint programming with the local modern Orthodox congregation, which was unique and a model of cooperation for other communities to follow.” Her partner, Kacal, also served as president of the congregation for five years. While picking up and moving their entire lives was both challenging and exhilarating, Diamond says that living in Israel is very special. She explains that as time has passed, she and Kacal feel more a part of things and less like they are living their lives in transition. “I recommend aliyah to anyone who feels the call. The Jewish community here is unlike any other, the opportunities for Jewish learning and Jewish living are unparalleled, and despite many challenges, I am incredibly grateful to be living here.” When asked if she and her family would ever return to the U.S., Diamond says, “We enjoy

“I recommend aliyah to anyone who feels the call. The Jewish community here is unlike any other…”

Rabbi Gail Diamond and family.

PHOTOS | RABBI GAIL DIAMOND

visiting, but at this point I think it would be hard to get used to living somewhere where Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Yom haAtzmaut are not national holidays. She continues, “I am used to the rhythms of Jewish life here; simple things like everyone saying Shabbat shalom on Friday and shavua tov on Saturday night and Sunday.” Through the years, she says it has been a blessing that she has been able to reconnect with past members of Agudas Achim as they passed through Jerusalem. “I loved living in Attleboro, and that’s why I am so pleased to be returning for the Yamim Noraim.” LINDSAY CHANCELLOR is a freelance writer based in Warwick and is currently working as a Marketing Director for a real estate investment firm.

Rabbi Gail Diamond

Happy Rosh Hashanah

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8 | September 4, 2015

OPINION

The season of introspection Challenging oneself is part of life Introspection is such a difficult concept. What does it really mean? According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, it’s a noun meaning the examination of your own thoughts or feelings. Not too complicated; easy to understand, right? The American Heritage EDITOR Dictionary has a slightly FRAN more formal def inition: OSTENDORF Contemplation of one’s own thoughts and sensations; self-examination. And the Oxford dictionary, of course, takes it further: The examination or observation of one’s own mental and emotional processes. But get into the process a little more deeply and it can become much, much more complicated. The High Holy Days, during the month of Elul, are traditionally a season of contemplation and introspection. And that got me thinking about how this relates year-round to my life as an editor. I can tell you that almost every time I sit down to write this column, I do at least a little bit of introspection. Readers may think that these columns just flow from my virtual “pen,” but they do not. There’s a lot of angst involved and often even more introspection. What topic am I going to write about? What am I going to say? How am I going to phrase each sentence? Will the column be too long or too short? And, finally, does anybody really care? A rabbi recently told me that he loves to write. You might say that’s a good thing since

a rabbi has to do quite a lot of writing. But there are many facets to a rabbi’s job other than writing. And like all jobs, some parts are more enjoyable than others. As an editor of a Jewish community newspaper, I wear many hats. And, unlike some editors, writing is not my favorite part of the job. I think it goes back to the introspection. I love the process, the questioning, the reporting, and making sure the story is well written and complete. But putting pen to paper myself? Not so much. People think editing, reporting and writing are all the same thing, but they actually require very different skills and approaches. And the writing part is my least favorite. That’s why I became an editor! Why do I keep doing it? Now there’s a topic for introspection. Telling a story is part of this job. Challenging oneself is part of life. Today, when I look back and think about how many stories I’ve written, even though writing is a task that I often dread, it reminds me of how we can all do more than we think we can and that it’s often a good idea to tackle the very things that scare or inhibit us. As we move toward 5776, I realize that somehow the writing isn’t quite as intimidating as it once was. It’s a new year, and I hope you have some new opportunities or even set some goals to overcome some of the things that scare or inhibit you or that might have held you back in the past. It can be scary and frustrating, but it’s a healthy part of introspection – and can be very satisfying. The staff at The Voice looks forward to continuing input from our readers, and a happy, healthy year for all. L’shanah tovah!

Do you have a story to tell? We like hearing from you. Would you like to share your opinion, family stories, recipes, wedding or phylanthropy stories? Funny. Sweet. Old. New. Are you willing to be a voice in the newspaper? We look forward to hearing

from you. Email editor@jewishallianceri.org. If a computer doesn’t suit you, send your article to Editor, The Jewish Voice, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, R.I. 02906.

OUR MISSION The mission of The Jewish Voice is to communicate Jewish news, ideas and ideals by connecting and giving voice to the diverse views of the Jewish community in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, while adhering to Jewish values and the professional standards of journalism.

The Jewish Voice

Ta-Nehisi Coates cri de coeur Ta-Nehisi Coates’ recently published “Between the World and Me” (Spiegel & Grau, 2015) is a cri de coeur, an outpouring of heart, an unburdening of soul. Coates, a 40-year-old national correspondent for The Atlantic, has shaped his IT SEEMS book as an extended inTO ME timate letter to his RABBI JIM 15 -ye a r- old ROSENBERG son, Samori – the only child of he and his wife. His theme is what it means to be black in America. Coates grew up in West Baltimore, the very same neighborhood of mean streets and broken, dangerous schools that exploded yet again this past spring. He tells the reader, “When I was eleven (1986) my highest priority was the simple security of my body. My life was the immediate negotiation of violence – within my house and without.” He saw himself as an inhabitant of a world apart from “other worlds where children did not regularly fear for their bodies.” Coates admits to his son that he cannot comprehend “what it means to grow up with a black president, social networks, omnipresent media and black women everywhere in their natural hair.” Despite all these changes, he insists that America remains a country where white men often go unpunished when they kill black men: Trayvon Martin (Florida), Eric Garner (Staten Island), Michael Brown (Ferguson, Missouri) – a list that goes on and on. By many measures, Coates has come to be a “successful” black man in America. Though he did not graduate, he was both nourished and nurtured at his “Mecca,” Howard University. He is able to earn a living pursuing his chosen career as a writer, and he seems to be in a stable, supportive marriage. Nevertheless, he argues that in America the deck continues to be stacked against black people. To his way of thinking, to his way of feeling, the rest of his

countrymen “believe themselves to be white,” an invented construct that keeps black people at the bottom of society’s barrel so that everybody else can participate in the false and destructive American Dream of “being white” – that is to say, not being black. At his most bitter, most angry, most depressed, Coates writes: “And so to challenge the police is to challenge the American people who sent them into the ghettos armed with the same self-generated fears that compelled the people who think they are

the thing, /Stumbled upon it in a grassy clearing guarded by scaly oaks and elms /And the sooty details of the scene rose, thrusting themselves between the world and me...” That “it,” that “thing” – Wright refuses to say the word – is the site of a lynching: “...a scorched coil of greasy hemp; /A vacant shoe, an empty tie, a ripped shirt, a lonely hat and a pair of trousers stiff with black blood... / And through the morning air the sun poured yellow surprise into the eye sockets of the stony skull...”

white to flee the cities into the Dream. The problem with the police is not that they are fascist pigs but that our country is ruled by majoritarian pigs.” Several pages further on, Coates laments to his son: “... you are powerless before the great crime of history that brought the ghettos to be.” “It is truly horrible to understand yourself as the essential below of your country.” “The essential below.” That is to say, those citizens who “think themselves white,” those citizens of the Dream, need black men and women to remain “below” them to serve as eternal stepping stones for their “white” advancement. “Between the World and Me” is the title of a 1957 poem by Richard Wright, which Coates has chosen for the title of his book. Rarely has a title added such depth and context to the content of a written work. Wright’s poem begins: “And one morning while in the woods I stumbled upon

The sense of dread and menace evoked in Wright’s poem is an unvoiced presence on every page of Coates’ book. Throughout my reading and rereading of “Between the World and Me,” I have remained an outsider to Coates’ world. My personal world is and has always been privileged, overwhelmingly Jewish and almost exclusively white. Am I just one more child of the American Dream, one of millions of fellow citizens corrupted by the false and dangerous belief that I am white? I wonder what Coates would say to me. It seems to me that I will be living with Coates’ book and with the poem that is its vital seed for quite sometime; I need to listen, to absorb, to be present and – at least for now – to be still. JAMES B. ROSENBERG is rabbi emeritus at Temple Habonim in Barrington. Contact him at rabbiemeritus@templehabonim.org.

COLUMNS | LETTERS POLICY The Jewish Voice publishes thoughtful and informative contributors’ columns (op-eds of 500 – 800 words) and letters to the editor (250 words, maximum) on issues of interest to our Jewish community. At our discretion, we may edit pieces

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

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

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OPINION

September 4, 2015 |

Maryland senator backs Iran nuclear deal

LETTERS Re: Iran Agreement Being old enough to remember the ruins of my city as the result of conventional bombs, I wonder at the significance of the nuclear deal. An Iran equipped with missiles similar to the V2 of WWII could destroy Israel’s cities and towns just as effectively as those weapons of the 1940s destroyed parts of England. Even the best Iron Dome can be overwhelmed by sufficient numbers of missiles. So what can this pact with its secret side agreements accomplish? Will it help to convince the Sunni world led by Saudi Arabia that they have a breathing space before they have to face a militarily superior Shia? Will it convince the Supreme Council that Iran can be recognized as a great power by a West which is not its enemy? Do we really believe that the inclusion of the word nuclear in this agreement some-

how makes it a significant step in reigning in Iran’s imperialist aims in the Middle East? This is not a peace pact. It is a small Band-Aid on the gaping wound of a region in which extremism is becoming the new normal. If the Congress assents nothing in the near future will change except that the sanctions will become a dead issue, Assad’s position will be strengthened and ISIS will continue its predation in Syria and Iraq. If Congress dissents our relationships with Europe and Russia may suffer and the Supreme Council will be confirmed in its view of America. Less loss to us with assent than with dissent. A weak negative result is better than a strong one. So pass the deal. Michael F. Sheff Bristol

Supporters of the Iran deal claim “It’s either this deal or war” and “If you don’t support this deal you are a war monger.” They repeat it over and over like in an echo chamber because they have no other justifiable defense for this deal. When Obama said “It’s either this deal or war,” and when Kerry said “the military option’s still on the table” the world burst out in hysterical laughter because everyone knows war with Iran will never happen. Nobody’s laughing louder than the mullahs of Iran. The IAEA is going to be conducting inspections of Iranian nuclear sites. Past IAEA inspections have been abject failures. In 2009, IAEA Director General ElBaradei stated inspections of Iran’s nuclear facilities were a “dead end.” In 2011, the IAEA released documents proving Iran was conducting research on advanced nuclear weapons. This month Iran threatened an IAEA inspector with “harm” if he revealed de-

tails of their side deal to the U.S. Now it’s revealed part of that side deal allows Iran to “self inspect” its nuclear sites. Russia inked a deal with Tehran to deliver an enhanced S-300 missile system. What portion of the money Iran receives is going into Putin’s pocket? France’s oil giant Total signed an oil deal with Tehran worth millions. German corporations are currently making millions in Iran. Yet these “partners” will reimpose sanctions on Iran. P5+1 is just going to walk away from hundreds of millions of dollars in business with Iran and “snapback” sanctions. Really? America’s going to be abandoned by the P5+1 the moment their business interests are threatened. Ron Stuart Warwick EDITOR’S NOTE: IAEA is the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Largest Luxembourg supermarket chain stops selling Israeli produce JTA – Cactus, the largest supermarket chain in Luxembourg, has stopped selling produce from Israel until its suppliers verify that it does not originate in the West Bank. A pro-Palestinian group has held demonstrations over the last months in front of Cactus stores, spurring the decision, Ynet reported. The little income generated from the Israeli goods was not worth the disturbance caused to customers by the protests, the chain’s management said.

The Luxembourg chapter of the Committee for a Just Peace in the Middle East, which organized the protests, hailed the decision last week in a statement posted on Facebook. Cactus said it will continue to sell SodaStream home soft drink machines and related products, some of which are produced in the company’s West Bank factory in Maale Adumim. The factory is slated to close by the end of the year, when a larger facility opens in southern Israel.

JNS.org – U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) announced Sept. 2 that she would back President Barack Obama’s nuclear deal with Iran, becoming the 34th senator to support the deal and ensuring enough supporting votes to prevent an override of a presidential veto of any Congressional rejection of the pact. “No deal is perfect, especially one negotiated with the Iranian regime,” Mikulski said in a statement. “I have concluded that this Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is the best option available to block Iran from

having a nuclear bomb. For these reasons, I will vote in favor of this deal. However, Congress must also reaffirm our commitment to the safety and security of Israel.” Congress is in the midst of a 60-day period to review the Iran nuclear deal. Virtually every Republican in the Senate (there are currently 54 Republicans among the 100 U.S. senators) has come out against the deal, as have two Democrats— U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.). But while the Senate

is likely to reject the deal with a simple majority, Obama has said he will veto any such Congressional disapproval. The Senate would have needed a two-thirds majority of 67 votes against the agreement to override that veto, but Mikulski’s support for the deal ensures that such a scenario will not materialize. Earlier in the week, U.S. Sens. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) became the 32nd and 33rd supporters of the deal in the Senate, respectively.

Smoking Gun: Iran BY HOWARD BROWN On Aug. 7, First Sgt. Andrew McKenna of Bristol, Rhode Island, was killed by the Taliban, which has been armed and funded by Iran since at least 2007. The second half of that statement is regularly omitted in reports by local news media. However, it has been firmly established that the Taliban has been funded and armed by Iran since at least 2007. According to an October 2014 report by the U.S. Department of Defense, “At the same time, Iran continued to provide lethal assistance, including light weapons and training, to elements of the Taliban and other insurgent groups. Since 2007, coalition and Afghan forces interdicted several shipments of Iranian weapons.” (wsj.com/articles/ iran-backs-taliban-with-cashand-arms-1434065528) The Iran connection is hardly trivial when our Congress is about to vote on releasing $150 billion in cash to Iran with no strings attached. “Secretary of State John Kerry conceded on Tuesday [7/28/15] that Iran ‘may’ use weapons that it will acquire as a result of restrictions being lifted under the nuclear agreement to kill Americans and Israelis” (cnsnews.com/news/article/ patrick-goodenough/kerry-acknowledges-iran-may-use-weapons-obtained-through-agreement) Question: How many more Americans will lose their lives to Iranian-sponsored terrorism if Congress votes to approve the Iran nuclear deal? Answer: Unknown. “Senior Obama administration officials told a Senate panel Wednesday that it is ‘nearly certain’ Iran will continue funding terrorism with the tens of billions of dollars it stands to gain if Congress approves a nuclear deal that would lift economic sanctions on the country.” (usnews. com/news/articles/2015/08/05/ obama-administration-nearlycertain-iran-will-still-fund-terrorism) At a town hall meeting held by

Rep. James Langevin (District 2) on Aug. 13 in East Greenwich, nearly 100 Rhode Island residents turned, virtually unanimous in demanding that the Congressman vote against the deal. They labeled it a “catastrophe.” There was grassroots representation from across the community, including Praise Tabernacle Church, StandWithUs-RI, the Jubilee Sisters Bible Study Group, and Temple Torat Yisrael, among others. They held signs and wore T-shirts stating, “We need a better deal.” They presented a range of arguments: The Iranian mullahs can’t be trusted; they will continue to cheat; they are evil. This is a danger to our own American security, not just our allies like Israel. Iran can’t be allowed to get nukes. Getting a better deal doesn’t mean war, but we still need a military option. But the argument that was most passionately repeated from speaker to speaker: a $150 billion payment in sanctions relief means more terrorism on American soil and against our military and our allies. How we got here as a country is a curious story. Early in the negotiations process, the administration promised that sanctions relief would only be phased in as Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism decreased. Before we knew it, “phased sanctions” were replaced by a “signing bonus.” The Cadillac we were offered over the phone turned into a brokendown Ford at the lot. We were sold a bill of goods. And Americans and our allies will pay the price. Some people across Rhode Island are outraged. There was appreciation that Rep. Langevin was willing to face his constituents. Rep. David Cicilline and Sen. Jack Reed, despite ongoing public pressure, as of this writing have scheduled no public meetings. LuAnn Pezzullo, of Bristol, wrote to this writer on Aug. 16, “I have been in touch with Cicilline’s office re Iran Deal as well as asked for town hall meeting so we as constituents can voice our concerns. I have received an email from him and a letter from

Senator Reed! No mention of my requests. I continue to call their offices. It would be nice if someone held a meeting in the Providence area! I continue to talk it up and encourage the calls!! We do our best and won’t go down without a fight.” National polls are inconclusive as reported by the Washington Post on Sept. 1. “A survey by the University of Maryland’s Program for Public Consultation released September 1 finds that Americans narrowly support the deal, with 52 percent wanting Congress to approve it and 47 percent wanting the pact rejected. For example, 55 percent of voters opposed the deal in a Quinnipiac University poll released Aug. 31 – more than double the 25 percent who supported it. With two weeks remaining before Congress votes on Sept. 17, the surveys suggest attitudes toward the complex, nuanced agreement are malleable and could turn against the deal. While the University of Maryland poll found a slight majority supporting the deal, large majorities of respondents said core criticisms of the deal were compelling.” (washingtonpost. com/politics/new-poll-showshow-sharply-partisan-the-debate-on-iran-deal-has-become/ 2015/08/31/1f0f0790-501c-11e59812-92d5948a40f8_story.html) They say the public memory is short, but in Rhode Island that isn’t always so. Who among us old enough will forget the terrific image of Joe Garrahy directing emergency blizzard operations in his flannel shirt – in 1978? Those who vote to approve this deal, whose Rhode Island opponents are passionate in their opposition, can expect to be remembered long into the future for that vote. And let us not forget, re-election campaigns for Congress are already underway. EDITOR’S NOTE: Type has been bold-faced for emphasis by the writer. HOWARD BROWN lives in North Kingstown, was co-founder of StandWithUs-RI chapter and currently is coordinator of StopIranNow-RI.

10 | September 4, 2015

D’VAR TORAH | OPINION

The Jewish Voice

Reexamining repentance TESHUVAH – this is the word of the season. Usually, this popular Hebrew word is translated as “repentance.” In fact, the days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are popularly referred to as the aseret y’mei teshuvah, the 10 days of repenRABBI BARRY tance. DOLINGER According to the MerriamWebster dictionary, repentance is defined as “the action or process of repenting, especially for misdeeds or moral shortcomings.” The verb repent is further defined as “to feel or show that you are sorry for something bad or wrong that you did and that you want to do what is right.” In this definition of teshuvah, the process is based on a particular wrong action or problem of character. It is essentially a process of correcting past mistakes; were

there no mistakes, there would therefore be no need to repent. Rav Avraham Yitzhak Hakohen Kook z’’l was the first chief Rabbi of British Mandatory Palestine. He passed away in 1935, and his 80th yahrtzeit just recently passed on the third day of the Hebrew month of Elul. Rav Kook z’’l was known as an intensely passionate, poetic and creative Jewish thinker who saw the return to the land of Israel as a part of the divine process of the messianic repair and the redemption of the world. A founding father of religious zionism, Rav Kook z’’l published a collection of essays titled “Orot Hateshuva, The Lights of Repentance,” that recast teshuvah more broadly as part of his broader vision. At its core, his work questions the above-described equation of teshuvah with repentance. Hebrew words employ a threeletter root that inform their denotation, and the root letters of teshuvah are Shin, Vav and Heh (Sh-V-H), meaning “return.” The Hebrew word more fairly

means the act of returning to the Creator. Understood in this way, teshuvah was a cosmic process and an existential posture of the created world; we are all engaged in an eternal journey of returning to God. For Rav Kook z’’l, this was the animating force behind evolution, moral development, economic and technological progress, and the return of the Jewish people to the land of Israel. Understood in this way, we are distant from God by mere dint of existing as separate created entities. The telos or ultimate purpose of our existence is to bridge the gap in communion together. Cast in this light, repentance is merely a small but significant part of the process of teshuvah. As we strive to connect and come nearer to the Divine, we naturally regret and feel sad about the error of past ways and actions that caused distance. But the process is not one fundamentally defined by the correction of errors. Focusing on the positive can have psychologically beneficial

May it be Your will, G-d of our ancestors, that You grant my family and all Israel a good and long life. Remember us with blessings and kindness. Fill our homes with your Divine Presence. Give me the opportunity to raise my children and grandchildren to be truly wise, lovers of G-d, people of truth, who illuminate the world with Torah, good deeds and the work of the Creator. Please hear my prayer at this time. Regard me as a worthy descendent of Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah, our mothers, and let my candles burn and never be extinguished. Let the light of your face shine upon us, and bring true peace to Israel and the world.

Blessings for Shabbos

CANDLE LIGHTING SCHEDULE September, 2015 4 6:54 11 6:42 13 Erev Rosh Hashanah 6:39 14 Rosh Hashanah (after) 7:39 18 6:30 22 Erev Yom Kippur 6:23 23 Yom Kippur ends 7:23 25 6:18 27 Erev Sukkot 6:15 28 Sukkot (after) 7:12

October, 2015 2 4 Erev Shemini Atzere 5 Erev Simchas Torah 9 16 23 30

6:06 6:03 7:02 5:54 5:43 5:33 5:23

6 13 20 27

November, 2015 4:15 4:07 4:04 3:58

Blessings for Holidays

Daylight savings time ends Nov. 1. 2015

December, 2015 4 11 18 25

January, 2016

3:55 3:55 3:57 4:00

1 8 15 22 29

4:06 4:12 4:20 4:28 4:37

February, 2016 5 12 19 26

Select the proper ending for the appropriate Yom Tov:

4:46 4:55 5:03 5:12

Daylight savings time resumes March 13, 2016

4 11 18 25

March, 2016 5:20 5:28 6:36 6:44

April, 2016

June, 2016 3 10

May, 2016

1 6:52 8 6:59 7:07 15 22 Eve 1st day of Pesach 7:15 23 Eve 2nd day of Pesach light candles after 8:20 28 Eve 7th day of Pesach 7:21 29 Eve 8th day of Pesach 7:22 30 Shabbat/Holiday ends 8:29

6 13 20 27

July, 2016 7:56 8:00

11 Eve 1st day of Shavuot light candles after 9:12

12 Eve 2nd day of Shavuot light candles after 9:13 17 8:03 24 8:04

1 8 15 22 29

8:04 8:02 7:58 7:53 7:46

7:30 7:37 7:44 7:50

August, 2016 5 12 19

7:38 7:29 7:19

7:08

The above times are for Providence, RI. Other areas around the region may vary by a few minutes.

Courtesy of Chabad Rhode Island

Candle lighting time for the second night of the Holiday is usually about one hour after the candle lighting time of the previous night.

Please do not deface or discard this paper, for G-d’s name is on it.

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM A-SHER KI-DE-SHA-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VI-TZI-VO-NU LE-HAD-LIK-NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH Blessed are You, G-d our Lord, King of the universe, who has hallowed us through His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the lights of the holy Shabbos

BORUCH ATO ADO-NOY ELO-HAY-NU MELECH HO-OLOM A-SHER KID-SHONU B’MITZ-VO-SOV V-T ZI-VONU L’HAD-LIK NER SHEL (on Friday add — SHA-BOS V-SHEL) Pesach, Shavuot and Succot:.......................Yom Tov Rosh Hashanah: .........................................Yom-Ha-zi-Koron Yom Kippur: ...............................................Yom Ha-Kippurim Add this blessing following each of the above blessings except for the last holidays of Pesach. BORUCH ATO ADO-NOY ELO-HAY-NU MELECH HO-OLOM SHE-HEH-CHE-YONU V’KEE-MONU V’HEE-GEE-ONU LEEZ-MAN HA-ZEH Special instructions for holidays (but not on Shabbat). It is forbidden to create a new fire by striking a match, lighter, etc., However, it is permissable to use a flame already burning since before the inception of the holiday, such as a pilot light, gas or candle flame. CAUTION FOR FRIDAYS: DO NOT light candles after sunset so as not to desecrate the Shabbos. It is forbidden to light candles after sunset.

Come to a “FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE” Shabbat Dinner at the CHABAD HOUSE m Jewish o l a Hospitality Center h S 360 Hope Street Providence, RI

CALL: 273-7238

soul of all things towers over us in its glory and holiness, as much as the heart can absorb; in truth, everything is so very good and upright, and the good and uprightness in us surely stems from our relationship to everything else. Therefore, how is it possible to be torn from everything, an individual crumb, separated like a grain of dust barely noticed. It is from the realization of this reality, which is truly a godly realization, that teshuvah comes to the lives of individuals and the collective whole.” – Rav Kook z’’l RABBI BARRY DOLINGER is rabbi of Congregation Beth Sholom in Providence.

OP-ED

How synagogues can prioritize disability inclusion this High Holy Day season BY JAY RUDERMAN

Pray for Peace

5775-5776 (2015–2016) Providence, Rhode Island

ramifications. A host of studies have confirmed that a fixation on past failures can lead to something oft termed the “what the hell effect,” serving to demotivate and promote undisciplined behaviors. Additionally, a fixation on prohibitions and avoidance of vices can ironically promote the inability to shake said vices from our thoughts. Focusing on positive goals, on the other hand, with balance and measure, promotes their attainment. “The highest form of teshuvah comes from the enlightenment of the general good, of the divine goodness that rests in all worlds, the light of the Eternal Life-Giver. The concealed

JTA — With the High Holy Days just around the corner, Jews all over the world will be asking themselves how they can lead more meaningful and moral lives. Synagogue communities, too, will be asking themselves how they can become more holy and inclusive communities. In my years of involvement with disability inclusion, I’ve observed that change often occurs because a rabbi, a professional or a lay leader understands the value of inclusion of all people and makes it a priority. If there ever was a time for leaders to step up to the plate and help their synagogues become more inclusive – to welcome diverse people with varying abilities and find a place for them in the community – it’s during the Days of Awe. Liz Offen, director of New England Yachad, an Orthodox Union-affiliated organization that works toward the inclusion of people with disabilities in Jewish life, said that the High Holy Days seem almost designed to raise awareness of people with disabilities. “Every aspect of the high holiday experience is infused with rituals that draw on the senses,” she said. “From the food we eat, to the sound and vibrations of the shofar, we are reminded of the varied ways people experience life.” So how can congregations take advantage of this calling to become more inclusive communities? The obvious answer is that they can implement best practices in making their physical spaces more inclusive for people with disabilities. They can print books with larger text, embrace hearing loop technologies to assist people who are hard of hearing, train ushers

to recognize and assist people with disabilities, make every part of the building wheelchair accessible, and establish an inclusion committee to continually expand inclusive practices. The broader answer is that they can demonstrate leadership and work to create a powerful culture of inclusion among congregants so that inclusion pervades all aspects of congregational life, and thereby change basic attitudes toward people with disabilities. Ed Frim, an inclusion specialist at United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, said that true inclusion goes much deeper than making synagogue life accessible. “Inclusive congregations are mindful of everyone who is part of the community,” he said. “They establish a culture that takes for granted that all, including those with disabilities, have the right to fully participate as part of the congregation.” “It’s not just about training ushers to be welcoming to people with disabilities and helping them find their way, it’s about turning the entire congregation into ushers, who seek to create a welcoming environment,” he said. Just as important as building a culture of inclusion is affecting a shift in attitude about how we think of disabilities. Rabbi Noah Cheses of Shaarei Shomayim Congregation in Toronto recalls an aha moment when his perspective on disabilities changed from seeing just the disability to seeing the whole person. A senior in high school had come to speak at a retreat Cheses was attending. The student had a muscular disorder that required him to be in a wheelchair. It was clear from the moment he began speaking that OP-ED | 36

thejewishvoice.org

CALENDAR

September 4, 2015 |

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Ongoing Alliance Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Noon lunch; 1 p.m. program. $3 lunch donation from individuals 60+ or under 60 with disabilities. Neal or Elaine, 401421-4111, ext. 107. West Bay Kosher Senior Café. Kosher lunch and program every weekday. Note new location: Temple Sinai, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston. 11:15 a.m. program; Noon lunch. $3 lunch donation from individuals 60+ or under 60 with disabilities. Steve, 401-743-0009.

Friday | September 4

Rosh Hashanah Party Kosher Senior Café. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Goddard State Park Carousel Pavilion. Lunch is served at noon. Live music provided by Susan McLeod. Transportation provided. Bus leaves Dwares JCC at 10 a.m.; Temple Sinai at 10:30 a.m. Bus returns to Temple Sinai at 2 p.m.; Dwares JCC at 2:30 p.m.

Saturday | September 5 Temple Sinai Brotherhood “breakfast.” 9 p.m. This social event precedes the Selichot service which begins at 10 p.m. Shireinu, the community chorus of Temple Sinai, will participate in the service.

Sunday | September 6

West Bay Havurah Hike at Maxwell Mays Refuge. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Moderate, 2.5 mile ramble through meadows, forest and around ponds at the Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge (the property that the famed RI painter lived on, and painted at). Meet directly at refuge at 10:50 a.m.; hike starts promptly at 11 and lasts about one and a half hours. Bring water and hat. Limited to 15 people. 2082 Victory Highway, Coventry. Call Mark Sweberg at 401-248-5010 to register.

Monday | September 7 Shofar Factory. 10 a.m. Fashion your very own Shofar from a real animal horn as you  learn the entire process from the cooking to the final polishing. Chabad of West Bay. 3871 Post Road, Warwick. RSVP to rabbi@rabbiwarwick.com or 401-884-7888.

Wednesday | September 9 Fall Holiday Crash Course. 7-9 p.m. Dwares JCC. Autumn is filled with a variety of Jewish holidays, but do you know what they are and why we celebrate them? Join members of The Mothers Circle and the entire community as we prepare for all the fall holidays, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. Learn the basics behind each holiday, or refresh what you already know. Appropriate for members of all faiths looking to learn more, will engage participants in a variety of hands-on activities including cooking, crafting and more. Ages: 18+. Free. For more information, contact Sara Foster at 401-421-4111, ext. 184 or sfoster@jewishallianceri.org.

West Bay Havurah Private Party at the New Rudy’s Deli. 7-9 pm; Formerly in Garden City from 1978-1982, Rudy’s New York Style Delicatessen has just reopened at 961 Dyer Ave, Cranston. Famous for their mountain high sandwiches, this is the spot to get your deli fix. Enjoy homemade corned beef brisket, NY style pastrami, split chicken breast, Nova Scotia lox, matzo balls, potato kugel, rugelach and much more. After-hours private dinner party: order off of the menu. Seating limited to 30 people; first come-first serve. RSVP to Mark Sweberg at 401-248-5010. Mega Challah Bake. 6:30 p.m. Chabad of West Bay. Join Jewish women and girls (ages 10 and up) for a pre Rosh Hashanah evening of unity and inspiration as we knead and braid delicious challah to adorn our holiday meals. Gluten Free & Vegan options are available, please let us know in your reservation. Hors d’oeuvres and desserts included. Suggested donation: $20. Brought to you by Chabad Jewish Women of West Bay. RSVP required: 401-884-7888 or MrsLaufer@gmail.com.

Friday | September 11 PJ Library Story and Play Time. 10-11 a.m. Dwares JCC. Come spend some time in the Alliance Family Room Parenting Center to hear stories, play games and make new friends. We will read various PJ Library books and sing songs about different Jewish holidays throughout the year. Children will also be able to make a craft. Ages 5 and under. Free. To RSVP or for more information, contact Michelle Cicchitelli at 401-421-4111, ext. 178 or mcicchitelli@jewishallianceri.org.

Sunday | September 20 March of the Living 2016 Open House. 5 p.m. Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. Come hear about a two-week trip to Poland and Israel in May 2106 for high school juniors and seniors. Parents also invited to learn about this transformative, educational experience that strengthens Jewish identity and builds leadership skills. Thousands of students from all over the world take this journey every year. Join the New England region and March With Us. For more information contact Jana Brenman at Jbrenman@jewishAllianceri.org.

Saturday | September 26 Kids’ Night Out. 5-10 p.m. Dwares JCC. Once a month on Saturday. September 26 | Rock and Roll. October 17 | Under the Sea. November 21 | Food Frenzy. December 19 | Glow in the Dark Party. Kids’ Night Out is a chance for children to spend the evening with their friends in a fun and safe environment. Each month children will be entertained with a variety of themed activities ranging from sports, crafts, swimming and more. A pizza dinner and snacks will be served, and the evening will end with a movie. This is also a great opportunity for parents to have a night out “kid free!” Ages 5-12. Price: $35 | Members: $25 | Siblings: $15. For more information or to register, contact Shannon Boucher at 401-421-4111, ext. 147.

12 | September 4, 2015

WORLD

The Jewish Voice

Italy’s only female rabbi is on a mission to expand the tribe BY MENACHEM WECKER WASHINGTON (JTA) – As Italy’s only female rabbi – as well as the country’s only non-Orthodox rabbi – Barbara Aiello has grown accustomed to a level of global renown. But in her home country, it can be hard to get respect. The Pittsburgh native has been asked to leave synagogues in Florence and Rome for wearing a kippah, she told JTA. She was ejected from a kosher shop in Milan for the same reason, she believes. A guide at Rome’s Great Synagogue said on a tour she was on that progressive rabbis don’t exist in Italy. “I think that’s unconscionable for one Jew to do to another,” Aiello said of the evictions. Aiello, who lives in a house in Serrastretta, Calabria – in the “toe” of Italy – that’s been in her family for 430 years. She was the first in her family to be born in the United States. She started traveling to Italy annually with her father in the 1970s and decided to move for good in 2004. After hearing Aiello conduct a memorial service in Italy for her brother-in-law, several people encouraged her to apply for an open rabbinic post at a Milanese synagogue. She held the position for two years. “It was always my goal to get to the south of Italy,” she said. There she searches for southern Italian “anusim” – those

with “hidden” Jewish roots that date back to forced conversions during the Inquisition – and helps them better understand and connect to their roots. On her website, Aiello writes that her efforts to help Italian families discover their Jewish heritage relates to the concept of L’dor v’dor, or “that special Jewish experience of ‘from generation to generation.’ ” The research is her passion, she told JTA, because half of Calabria and Sicily was Jewish prior to the Inquisition, and she sees a hunger in those communities to know more about Judaism. “The light in the soul has never died,” she said while visiting Washington, D.C., recently. “From the discovery of their Jewish roots, many want to embrace Judaism.” Aiello supplements that research, and her broader efforts to create a more inclusive Italian Jewish community, by officiating at destination weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, baby namings, conversions and other ceremonies. That Aiello, whose website notes that she “welcomes the opportunity to officiate and coofficiate for interfaith and nontraditional couples,” has ruffled Italian feathers isn’t hard to imagine. Italy’s Orthodox rabbinate holds a monopoly, according to Aiello, who as a nonOrthodox rabbi is not permitted to legally marry couples in Italy. (She performs a symbolic

Rabbi Barbara Aiello service after the couples obtain their civil marriages.) This summer, Aiello performed eight bar and bat mitzvah ceremonies and trained the students, who hailed from Maryland, New Jersey, Boston and Vancouver, to read their Torah portions from her synagogue’s 18th-century scroll. She also officiated at a bar mitzvah at a historic synagogue in Croatia – its first bar mitzvah in 75 years – and named a baby from Singapore. “That’s really how we stay alive financially,” she said of the Italian Jewish Cultural Center of Calabria, which she founded and directs, and the 82-member Sinagoga Ner Tamid del Sud, which she leads. Riccardo Shemuel Di Segni, the chief rabbi of Rome, has heard directly from Aiello on

several occasions about being kicked out of the synagogues and store. “Probably in Milan – not the yarmulke, but her being recognized as a Reform rabbi, arose that reaction,” he said. “Our behavior here in Rome is obviously different. There are several women with yarmulkes who show up in our synagogue when they visit Rome. I never forbid them to join the ezrat nashim, “ Hebrew for the women’s section. The rabbi acknowledged, however, that he doesn’t control the security officers or “their sometimes strange decisions.” “The more common popular reaction here is of curiosity, not of rejection,” Di Segni said. According to the rabbi, Aiello sparked “great interest and sympathy” when she arrived in Italy because she represented a “double new” as both a female rabbi and a progressive Jew. In Calabria, Di Segni said, there are very few “official” Jews and “an uncertain number of families who claim to be of marrano origin, as Barbara herself says about hers.” (Aiello told JTA that her family fled persecution in Toledo, Spain, for Portugal, and then fled the Inquisition to Sicily and Morocco, and then to Italy.) The “actual impact of Aiello’s activities is now limited to this kind of niche, with a very small influence on the general Jewish population and maybe even

among the Reform groups,” he added. Philip Balma, an associate professor of Italian literary and cultural studies at the University of Connecticut, said that Jewish Italians who are aware of Aiello’s work tend to see her as an “anomaly.” “Although I have a lot of respect and admiration for the work she does, to my knowledge any sense of legitimacy she enjoys in Italy comes, at least originally, from her formation and contacts in the United States,” Balma said. Aiello’s efforts to search for southern Italian anusim and to identify “hidden” members of the Jewish community is fascinating to academics, according to Balma. That research leads Aiello and two full-time colleagues through troves of 15th- and 16th-century documents, searching for Jewish names that may match the hidden Jews with their ancestors. Aiello said that about 65,000 Jews lived in Italy prior to World War II, and the number now inscribed in the Jewish community ledgers is about 38,000. The official count, she said, only includes those who can document four Jewish grandparents. “That number is decidedly low,” she said. “There would be many, many more people who would be Jewish if the Orthodox community allowed them to be.” RABBI | 36

COMMUNITY

thejewishvoice.org

September 4, 2015 |

West Bay Community Jewish Center looks at fresh alternatives is no mortgage. The rabbi promises the congregation will not operate at a deficit. If it grows, they will look for space to be under one roof. But it won’t buy a building. He says perhaps they will consider sharing space with another religious organization. For now, though, as Goldstein says, “It’s exciting to be part of something new.” FRAN OSTENDORF is editor of The Jewish Voice. Rosh Hashanah_3x10 8/10/15 10:17 AM Page 1

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The Rhode Island Jewish community is small. As a result, we’ve often seen synagogues struggle with financial problems, combine or disappear. But this year, there’s a new congregation in the community. The West Bay Community Jewish Center has grown out of the idea that there has to be a different model to keep up membership and help a congregation moving forward. According to Rabbi Richard Perlman, one of the leaders of the new community, the “a la carte model” of membership should appeal to those who haven’t been part of a congregation due to financial concerns as well as traditionalists looking for an alternative. “We’ve built a model that makes sense in this economy,” he says. “You can become a member. But you don’t have to be a member. We have a modest dues structure.” Members and nonmembers alike can pay for the services they use including the religious school and life cycle events and High Holy Day services. Members pay at a reduced rate. Perlman recently left Congregation Am David. He says his goal is not to compete with other synagogues but to create a new kind of community to include people not currently committed to any synagogue. According to a 2013 Pew study of American Jews, less than one-third are members of any synagogue. Perlman points out that one of the goals of this new model is to attract people who can’t afford a traditional dues structure and haven’t been in a synagogue in a long time. “If people are going away and not attending, who

are we failing?” he said. “People are coming who haven’t been in a synagogue for years. This is a win for everyone.” WBCJC is a Conservative congregation though it is not affiliated with any national organization. It has no building of its own. Daily minyan and Shabbat services are held at the Phyllis Siperstein Tamarisk Assisted Living Residence in Warwick. High Holy Days services will be held at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Warwick. Services are led by Perlman, often along with lay leaders. According to Perlman, the group is not affiliated with Tamarisk or the Jewish Seniors Agency. “On an average weekday morning, we have 12 to 16 people,” he says. Often, there are several Tamarisk residents. But sometimes, none attend. After minyan, breakfast is available, for a nominal fee. “People come because they enjoy worshipping and spending time together,” Perlman said. A religious school, led by Susan Sugarman, is enrolling students. They will meet one day each weekend in classroom space above Ruth’s in Rolfe Square, Cranston. There’s adult education, social action and a very active havurah. Alice Goldstein is leading an adult b’nei mitzvah class with five women who are working toward a May ceremony. She characterizes it as a Judaism 101+ class. “This is an open and welcoming community following a new model of organization,” she says. “The people who are members are really committed to being active.” The congregation has been in existence since June 15. Paul Finstein is president and there is a board of directors. But it does not own a building so there

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BY FRAN OSTENDORF fostendorf@jewishallianceri.org

The Miriam Hospital wishes you a happy rosh hashanah. miriamhospital.org

14 | September 4, 2015

COMMUNITY

We welcome you. Join our warm and energetic congregation for the High Holy Days!

Congregation Agudas Achim

901 North Main St., Attleboro, MA

(508) 222-2243 | www.agudasma.org

ROSH HASHANAH

Erev Rosh Hashanah Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. First Day Sept. 14, 9:15 a.m. Second Day Sept. 15, 9:15 a.m.

YOM KIPPUR

Kol Nidre Sept. 22, 6:15 p.m. Yom Kippur Sept. 23, 9:15 a.m. Mincha & Neilah Sept. 23, 5:30 p.m. Break the Fast Sept. 23, 7:22 p.m.

The Jewish Voice

Rabbi Wechterman accepts Reconstructionist post BY IRINA MISSIURO imissiuro@jewishallianceri.org Rabbi Elyse Wechterman recently accepted an offer from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association to be their executive director. Wechterman says she is “feeling blessed to be able to play this role.” She admits to being a little nervous, since every new endeavor brings some anxiety, but quickly adds that the feeling is accompanied by excitement and a sense of possibility. Wechterman believes that her experience as spiritual leader of Congregation Agudas Achim, in Attleboro, from 2001 until last year, has prepared her for this new opportunity. She says, “Thirteen years as a pulpit rabbi has given me support to experience so many varieties of Jewish questions and concerns. I have a sense of where Jewish people are in the world. I hope my experience will enable me to bring the perspective of who we are serving.” Since her new position is fulltime, Wechterman will have to stop teaching at the college and adult level in Attleboro and leading the monthly Shabbat services for special-needs families, a role she calls “a wonderful experience.” While her family will remain in Attleboro, she will soon begin transitioning her work life to Philadelphia. She will spend Monday through Thursday

Rabbi Elyse Wechterman in Pennsylvania and Friday through Sunday in Massachusetts. Even though it will be challenging, Wechterman is determined to make the circumstances work in her favor. She’s not one to be daunted by obstacles. Last year, Wech-

terman went on a trip to India with the American Jewish World Service, “a profound opportunity.” She was moved by seeing the diversity of the world, even if it consisted of poverty and injustice. She feels “we are all each other’s keeper, and we share bonds of humanity.” The experience has influenced her teaching, instilling it with openness to seeing the need for a Jewish response to the larger world. She hopes that it will inform her work in the future. Wechterman sees the Jewish world as in a state of flux, both locally and globally. And while she considers Reconstructionist rabbis to be some of the most creative and passionate individuals in the world, she suspects she will have many of the same conversations in Philadelphia as she did in Massachusetts. “Although my professional gaze is heading in another direction, I have treasured my years in the Greater Rhode Island community,” Wechterman says. “I feel I have learned so much, and I am taking so much of it with me.”

Nave Gedj

Nave Gedj returns to Israel Camp is over and summer shaliach Nave Gedj is leaving. She will spend some time in New York City, then return to Israel, where she will move to Tel Aviv and start school at the Rimon School of Music.

She’s had a great experience, she said, and hopes to someday return to the U.S. to see more of the country. Her dream is to study at Berklee College of Music in Boston. And so we say “l’hitraot.”

COMMUNITY

thejewishvoice.org

March of the Living is an important experience

Do You Need Help Managing the Details of Your Move?

BY CANDACE POWNING Throughout my schooling, religious and otherwise, I have gone through many iterations of Holocaust lessons. So when I began thinking of going on March of the Living, I couldn’t help but wonder how it would affect me. After all, years of classroom lessons add up – what else was there to know? However, for me, the impact of the journey cannot be measured in gained knowledge. As the trip drew near, there was much energy that accompanied flying more than 20 high-schoolers halfway across the world. The whole delegation, our parents included, were educated in preparation so that we would be anchored by the security of emotional and physical well-being. As we began our time in Poland, visiting some of the world’s most horrific sites, I regretted trying to fit my emotional reaction into the boundaries of my expectations. I worried that my historical knowledge of the Holocaust prevented me from feeling the impact of actually being there. But what I learned was that this type of journey affects each participant differently. For me, when I looked at the train tracks or walked through the museum at Auschwitz, I processed them as I would pictures in a textbook. However, the softening of my academic shell came unexpectedly in moments when I felt connected to a place, to the people who had lived and died there. When I felt as if I could have known them or when I somehow felt their presence, I understood. On the morning of the march from Auschwitz to Birkenau, I expected the day to be deeply sad. To my surprise, it was nothing of the sort. Through the air of solemnity, there was pride, and even joy as we walked through the camps. On the very ground where we were intended to have been killed

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Candace Powning 70-some years ago, we linked arms, 11,000 strong, united by a common identity. The second half of the trip, the week spent in Israel, was a critical part of the experience, for I began to understand the importance of a Jewish state. I have been taught to support Israel, but I needed a personal understanding. It was attending the Yom ha-Zikaron ceremony, feeling the strength of community at the Yom ha-Atzmaut march in Jerusalem, and singing Am Yisrael Chai with thousands of other Jews, that I felt the importance of a Jewish homeland. To be clear, this trip is not for recreation. But it is too important to pass up. The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island works hard to make the experience fi nancially possible for each student who applies. Teachers, school admin-

istrators, and even the College Board are more than accommodating. Missing some school pales in comparison to the bonds formed and memories made. Above all, I can say that the lessons of the experience become increasingly applicable to other aspects of post-March life, fi nishing high school and transitioning to adulthood. CANDACE POWNING is a sophomore at Wesleyan University. She participated in March of the Living 2014. The next trip is scheduled for May 1-15, 2016. For information, contact Jana Brenman, director of teen engagement and education at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, at jbrenman@ jewishallianceri.org or 401-4214111, ext. 181.

The Board of Directors and Staff of

Jewish Seniors Agency of Rhode Island

wish you and your family a Healthy and Happy New Year

Paul Barrette Executive Director

Jeffrey Padwa President

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ROSH HASHANAH FOOD

The Jewish Voice

An easy, elegant Rosh Hashanah menu for a sweet new year BY SHANNON SARNA

1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste 1 1/2 cups chicken, beef or veal stock 1 1/2cups red wine 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1/3 cup pomegranate molasses, plus extra for serving fresh parsley (optional) pomegranate seeds (optional)

NEW YORK (JTA) — We love to kvetch about how early or late Rosh Hashanah falls – as if we have any control or say when the holidays will appear. But this year, the Jewish New Year falls on the early side for us Americans, right after Labor Day and the start of school. So there’s no time to agonize over menus or prep for weeks – which can sometimes be a good thing. If you haven’t been menu planning since July, don’t fret. You can still put together an elegant but time-conscious meal for a deliciously sweet New Year.

Directions

Short ribs Ingredients

flavor perfect for the New Year. For an extra festive presentation, garnish the short ribs with colorful pomegranate seeds and fresh parsley. This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a larger crowd. I do not recommend skipping the step of browning the meat and veggies before putting into your slow cooker: It will add depth of flavor to the meat, vegetables and sauce.

Crockpot Short Ribs with Pomegranate Molasses

Servings: 6 Short on time but still want to make a beautiful main dish? Break out your slow cooker. These short ribs taste like you were slaving over a hot stove all day, when in fact you just threw it all in your slow cooker and then poured yourself a big glass of wine. The pomegranate molasses adds a traditional, sweet

3 1/2 pounds short ribs on the bone 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon dried coriander 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika pinch red pepper flakes 1 or 2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper olive oil 1 onion, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 ribs of celery, diced

Mix together the cinnamon, coriander, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Place the short ribs on a large plate and rub the spice mix all over the ribs, covering all sides. Allow to sit in the fridge covered in plastic wrap for a few hours if you have the time. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over mediumhigh heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until brown. You will want to do this in batches depending on how many ribs you make. When all the ribs have been seared, place them in the bottom of your slow cooker. Drain off all oil in pan, except for around 2 or 3 tablespoons. Add onion and celery to the pan and sauté until translucent, about 4 to 6 minutes. Add garlic and continue to cook. After a few minutes, add 1 heaping tablespoon tomato paste and cook until the tomato has incorporated into the vegetables. Add the cooked vegetables to

the slow cooker with the stock, wine, soy sauce and pomegranate molasses. Set your slow cooker for 6 hours on high and allow to cook, ensuring the short ribs are completely covered with liquid. When short ribs are finished cooking, garnish with a drizzle of pomegranate molasses, fresh chopped parsley and pomegranate seeds, if desired.

Baba Billie’s Potato Kugel Servings: 10-12

This kugel is renowned in my husband’s family, but the real credit goes to his grandma, Baba Billie Goldberg, of blessed memory, whose cooking was legendary. What I have learned from my husband about making potato kugel is that it is essential to heat the oil in the pan before adding the potato mixture. This step will ensure a crispy outside on the bottom and top. This is not a recipe for anyone watching their waistline, so take a deep breath, embrace the indulgent nature of this traditional dish and enjoy the fat-laden ride.

Ingredients 8 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and coarsely shredded 2 medium-large onions, coarsely shredded 5 large eggs 1/4 cup matzah meal 1/2 tablespoon salt 2 teaspoons freshly ground MENU | 17

Rosh Hashanah celebrate with our selection of Kosher foods

Empire Kosher Roasting Chicken Frozen

Gunther’s Honey Bear Osem Cakes Selected Varieties, 8.8 oz. pkg.

Tabatchnick Frozen Soup Selected Varieties, 15 oz. pkg.

$ 89 /lb.

5 2/$ 5 3/$ 5 2/$

Empire Fresh Kosher Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

Streit’s Matzos

Selected Varieties, 11 oz. pkg.

Tabatchnick Broth Selected Varieties, 32 oz. pkg.

Kedem Sparkling Juice Selected Varieties, 25.4 oz. pkg.

$ 99 /lb.

2/$

4 2/$ 6 2/$

Selected Varieties, 4.37 oz. can

Yehuda Memorial Glass Candle 1 ct. pkg.

Kedem Tea Biscuits 4.2 oz. pkg.

Kadem Apple Juice

Selected Varieties, 12 oz. pkg.

Selected Varieties, 64 fl. oz. btl.

5/$

Gold Apples Crisp and Juicy. U.S. Extra Fancy or #1.

Season Sardines

Manischewitz Noodles

4 2/$ 1 2/$ 1

2/$

3/$

Mrs. Adler’s Gefilte Fish

$ 99

Manischewitz Matzo Ball Mix

Gefen Chestnuts

2/$

5 2/$ 5

Lipton Soup Mixes

Selected Varieties, 24 oz. jar

5.2 oz. pkg.

Manischewitz TamTams Selected Varieties, 9.6 oz. pkg.

Use your card and save on items on this page. We sell both kosher and non-kosher foods. Some items not available in some stores. While supplies last. Prices good August 21–September 13, 2015.

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or Matzo Ball Soup Mix. Selected Varieties, 4.5–6 oz. pkg.

Selected Varieties,

Golden Blintzes, Crepes or Pierogies

ROSH HASHANAH FOOD

thejewishvoice.org FROM PAGE 16 |

black pepper 2 teaspoons garlic powder paprika for sprinkling thick sea salt 1/3 cup olive oil

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. When oven is preheated, add 1/3 cup olive oil to a 9-by-13 glass baking dish and put into the oven to heat. Whisk eggs together in a large bowl. Add shredded potato, onion, matzah meal, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Mix until combined. When oil has been heating about 10 minutes, remove from oven. Add a small spoonful of the potato mixture and if it starts sizzling, it is hot enough. If not, put it back in the oven for a few minutes. When oil is ready, add the entire potato mixture and spread in an even layer using an offset spatula or large spoon. Sprinkle sweet or hot paprika on top and a little of the thick sea salt. Bake for 40-50 minutes until crispy around the edges and golden brown on top. Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Roasted Broccoli with Garlic Servings: 6 Broccoli is an easy and accessible side dish to make all year. Throw it in the oven, let it caramelize, and you have a crunchy,

Potato kugel slightly sweet vegetable that will have your guests raving. Extra points: It’s super easy and requires almost no prep time.

Ingredients

2 large or 3 medium heads of broccoli 5-6 garlic cloves, unpeeled salt and pepper olive oil

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Remove stems from broccoli. Cut broccoli into medium florets. Spread on a large baking sheet, or 2 medium baking sheets so as not to overcrowd while cooking. Add garlic cloves and salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until just starting to get crispy and caramelized.

Apples and Honey Bunch (Recipe by Brittany Fishman Pais)

No family fathering would be complete without a proper cocktail to mellow everyone’s mood, right? This recipe is a family

favorite from Brittany Fishman Pais, whose mother likes to serve this punch to prevent the family “crazies,” as she calls them. And who doesn’t want to enjoy a festive drink that incorporates the traditional New Year flavors of apple and honey? Brittany recommends serving this drink with a honey swizzle stick and a thin slice of apple as garnish.

Ingredients

1 quart apple cider 1 quart ginger ale 2 cups honey bourbon, (optional) 1 or 2 Granny Smith apples, cut into slices Honey sticks (optional)

Directions

Chill apple cider, ginger ale and bourbon (if using). Pour the apple cider, ginger ale and bourbon into large pitcher or punch bowl and add ice and apple slices. Garnish individual glasses with an apple slice and honey stick, if desired.

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September 4, 2015 |

18 | September 4, 2015

ROSH HASHANAH FOOD

The Jewish Voice

Pops make an easy and fun dessert BY SHERI SILVER (The Nosher via JTA) – Like most Jewish holidays, Rosh Hashanah brings to mind certain traditional food customs, the most well-known being the dipping of apples in honey And while a classic apple pie or cake is a lovely way to mark our hopes for a sweet new year, I thought it would be fun to change things up a bit. These apple and honey pie “pops” are a cinch to make – and even more fun to eat. They can be

assembled (and frozen) in advance, and are especially nice to serve for a crowd. No cutting or forks needed! Even better, you only need a few simple ingredients, yet wind up with something truly delicious – and a little different. Sweet indeed!

Apple and Honey Pie Pops Yield: 12 to 16 pops

Ingredients 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced

2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons honey 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 package (2 crusts) refrigerated pie crusts, set out at room temperature for 15 minutes 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water Raw or “sanding” sugar, for sprinkling

Special equipment

2-3 inch cookie cutter (or drinking glass) Lollipop sticks

Directions In a medium pan combine the apples, sugar, honey, cinnamon and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, or till the apples have softened and the juices have thickened. Remove from heat and let cool. Preheat oven to 400 degrees; line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Unroll one pie crust on a work surface. Use your cutter to make as many circles as you can; place on your prepared baking sheets. Put a lollipop stick in the center of each circle, pressing down lightly to secure. Place a teaspoon of cooled fi lling on each circle. Use a pastry brush to brush a bit of the beaten egg around the edge of each circle. Unroll the second pie crust and cut out an equal number of circles to the fi rst crust – place

atop the fi lled crusts and press lightly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork, and make a few small incisions in the center to allow steam to escape. Brush tops with the egg and sprinkle with the raw sugar. (Pops may be frozen at this point. Reheat directly from the freezer, adjusting baking time by a few extra minutes.) Bake pops for 20 minutes; transfer trays to wire racks to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature (pops may be kept tightly sealed, at room

temperature, for 3-5 days). SHERI SILVER is writer of the blog Donuts, Dresses and Dirt, where she shares all of her passions, including baking and cooking, gardening and shopping, and her adventures in and around New York with her husband and three kids. The Nosher food blog offers a dazzling array of new and classic Jewish recipes and food news, from Europe to Yemen, from challah to shakshuka and beyond. Check it out at www.TheNosher.com.

2015 TRADITIONAL ROSH HASHANAH MENU Gefilte Fish ...................................................................................................................................... $ 2.99 pc. Our Own Horseradish .....................................................................................................................$ 6.99 lb. Chopped Liver .................................................................................................................................$ 8.99 lb. Chicken Soup with noodles and carrots .................................................................................. $ 3.49 pt./ $6.98 qt. Matzoh Balls .................................................................................................................................. $ 9.99 dz. Roasted Brisket with Gravy ........................................................................................................... $18.99 lb. Holiday Lasagna ..............................................................................................................................$ 9.99 lb. Boneless Chicken Breast stuffed with spinach & roasted red pepper .............................................................$ 7.99 ea. Carrot Tzimmis ............................................................................................................................... $ 7.99 lb. Kasha and Bows ..............................................................................................................................$ 6.99 lb. Barley & Mushroom Pilaf ...............................................................................................................$ 6.99 lb. Roasted Vegetables ......................................................................................................................... $ 7.99 lb. Puree Parsnip with Dill & Onion .....................................................................................................$ 8.99 lb. Potato Kugel (whole kugel is approx. 5 lbs.) .............................................................................................. $ 5.99 lb. Cheese Noodle Kugel (whole kugel is approx. 5 lbs.) .................................................................................$ 6.99 lb. Sweet Potato Kugel (approximate weight 1.5 lbs.) ....................................................................................$ 6.99 lb. Apple Kugel (approximate weight 1.5 lbs.) ................................................................................................$ 6.99 lb. Vegan Chopped Liver .....................................................................................................................$ 9.99 lb.

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September 4, 2015 |

HASHANAH FOOD

Pomegranate stars in tasty honey chicken BY LIZ RUEVEN (The Nosher via JTA) – Pomegranates, or rimonim in Hebrew, are one of the most recognizable and highly symbolic fruits in Jewish culture. Originating in Persia, these reddish, thick-skinned fruits (technically a berry) begin to appear in markets at the end of summer and are readily available for holiday cooking by Rosh Hashanah. According to Gil Marks in “The Encyclopedia of Jewish Food,” the abundance of seeds, nestled into a white membrane and encased in a protective and leathery skin, is associated with the 613 commandments in the Torah. They serve as symbols of righteousness and fruitfulness as expressed in the Rosh Hashanah expression, “May we be full of merits like the pomegranate (is full of seeds).” This ancient fruit, prized for its juice and seeds (called arils) is mentioned in the Bible as one of the seven most bountiful agriculture products of ancient Israel. In biblical times, pomegranates were used to add tart flavors to ancient dishes before lemons and tomatoes were discovered. Since then, pomegranates have been used to add unique and complex dimensions to Sephardic and central Asian foods. Today, pomegranates are prized for their antioxidant and potent nutritional value. Juice, molasses (actually a reduction and thickening of the juice and

sometimes called pomegranate concentrate or syrup) and arils are used in a wide range of applications. In “The New Persian Kitchen,” author Louisa Shafia offers numerous pomegranate dishes, including a classic Iranian stew called fesenjan that is often served at celebrations. The chicken is cooked with beets and thickened with coarsely ground walnuts and pomegranate molasses. Shafia illustrates removing the seeds a few different ways, but I like the “water method” best. Simply slice off the two ends and quarter the fruit with a knife. Submerge the quarters in a bowl of cold water and pull out the seeds with your fingers. The pith and skin float to the surface as the arils sink to the bottom. Scoop out everything but the seeds and pour water and seeds through a mesh colander to collect them. Consider using pomegranates in your Rosh Hashanah meals when it is considered a positive omen, or segulah, to incorporate symbolic foods in our holiday menus. Whip up this easy chicken dish and you’ll have both bountiful and sweet symbols covered. Holiday chicken is potent with pomegranates goodness as this symbolic fruit is used in three ways: juice, molasses and arils. The flavors are bold, tangy and slightly sweet – a Middle Eastern-influenced sweet and sour! NOTE: The simmer sauce may be prepared 2-3 days ahead and

refrigerated until ready to prepare the chicken.

Pomegranate and Honey Glazed Chicken Yields: 4 servings.

Ingredients 1 (4-pound) chicken cut in eighths (cut breasts in half if large) 4 tablespoons canola oil (separated: 2 tablespoons for simmer sauce and 2 tablespoons for browning the chicken) 1 large onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup pomegranate molasses 1/2 cup sweetened pomegranate juice 1/2 cup honey 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth 1 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger 1/8 teaspoon allspice 1/2 teaspoon turmeric Salt and pepper to taste

is reduced by about half and slightly thickened. Taste sauce and adjust seasoning. Too tart? Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of honey. Want more kick? Crack more black pepper. Remove sauce from heat and pour into bowl. Set aside. Rinse chicken parts, pat dry, season with salt and pepper. Heat remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in pan and place chicken parts skin side down. Brown on one side and flip to second side. Do not crowd chicken in the pan as this causes chicken to steam rather than brown. Lower heat, pour prepared

sauce over the chicken. Cover pan and simmer on low for 3540 minutes. Remove from pan and platter, garnishing with chopped parsley and pomegranate arils. After years of eating too many slabs of grilled salmon and pasta topped with soggy veggies, LIZ RUEVEN got serious about finding restaurants that serve vegetable-based dishes for kosher keepers like her. Check out her blog, Kosher Like Me. Check it out at www. TheNosher.com.

For the garnish 2 tablespoons parsley 2 tablespoons pomegranate arils (seeds)

Directions

Heat 2 tablespoons canola oil in a large pan Saute chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and saute for 2-3 minutes (do not brown). Add pomegranate molasses, juice, honey, broth and spices. Stir and bring to boil. Reduce to a simmer; cook uncovered for about 20 minutes or until sauce

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20 | September 4, 2015

COMMUNITY

The Jewish Voice

Gloria Feibish: A leader in our community for 35 years BY HILLARY SCHULMAN

hschulman@jewishallianceri.org

First of three The phone rings so you look at the caller ID. You don’t recognize the number, but you grudgingly decide to pick it up. On the line is Gloria Feibish, calling on behalf of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island. It is dinnertime, so you are a little perturbed, but because you really like Gloria, you decide to listen to what she has to say. She thanks you for your previous gifts to the Alliance, and wonders if you can increase your donation this year because the needs in our community are growing. You decide that you can do that. She thanks you, and you return to your dinner table. This is a scenario that has occurred over and over during the many years that Gloria Feibish has been seeking support for our Jewish community. Feibish and her husband, Martin, moved to Rhode Island from New York City in 1962. She became involved with the Jewish Federation, now the Jewish Alliance, when her husband could not finish a project he had initiated for the Jewish Community Center in the early 1970s. Feibish then became involved with a newly formed group called the Business and Professional Women’s Affiliate of the Women’s Division of

the Jewish Federation, eventually serving as its second president. She subsequently served on the Women’s Division Board, as well as the Board of the Jewish Federation, where she was appointed the Federation’s designee to the Board of Jewish Education.

“When you’re involved with a Jewish agency… you’re always going to be seeking additional funds… for support of its programs.” She became president of the BJE in 2000, serving until 2003. Jewish education is incredibly important to Feibish, and she has been involved in its many facets in the community, including serving for nine years on the board of the Jewish Community Day School. When asked about her work with the Alliance, Feibish replied that she has had many commitments in the Jewish community but has always had a special commitment to the Alliance, helping to raise

Gloria Feibish funds for over 35 years. “When you’re involved with a Jewish agency such as the Alliance, you’re always going to be seeking additional funds from the Jewish community for support of its programs; there never seems to be enough to do all its important work,” she said. Feibish, who lives in Provi-

dence, grew up learning about the impact and importance of tzedakah, and was taught that we should give what we can – no gift is too small, no amount too large, and it is an obligation we have as Jews to help each another. Feibish quickly became a leader in the Jewish community, and she helped others

understand the Alliance’s mission and encouraged them to join in the effort. She was Rhode Island’s first Lion of Judah, and, slowly, other women in the community have followed her lead. The ranks have now grown to more than 100 women. Feibish, along with Selma Stanzer and Janet Zurier, was also instrumental in founding the Women’s Alliance Endowment Fund, which now has over 100 women. This popular fund helps needy girls and women all over the globe. In response to a question about getting a greater number of young people involved, Feibish said it is a nurturing process, working to engage them in an activity they are interested in and moving into more involvement from there. She expressed her interest in continuing to serve, and the hope that millennials will follow suit. “We are very lucky to have the people we have,” she said of her fellow Jewish community members. EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first of three articles about women who are long-time annual campaign volunteers. HILLARY SCHULMAN is a development associate at the Jewish Alliance.

thejewishvoice.org

ROSH HASHANAH

Which month marks the Jewish New Year? BY MAAYAN JAFFE JNS.org Tishrei is among the most wellknown months on the Hebrew calendar because it contains the High Holy Days and marks the beginning of the year. Or so it seems. Indeed, to modern-day Jews, Rosh Hashanah is considered the Jewish New Year. But traditionally, the Hebrew calendar actually has four “New Year” days: the fi rst of Tishrei (Rosh Hashanah); the fi rst of Nisan; the 15th of Shevat (Tu B’Shevat, or the New Year of trees); and the fi rst of Elul, the New Year of animal tithes (taxation). The Torah specifically names Nisan as the fi rst month of the Jewish calendar. So where did Tishrei come from, and how did it gain New Year status? Rabbi Donny Schwartz, midwest regional director for the Orthodox youth organization NCSY, explains that Tishrei relates to the sun, which is connected to the solar year. In Hebrew, the word year is translated as “shana,” which is related to the Hebrew words “sheni” (second/repeatable) and “yashan” (old). “Tishrei represents a system that never changes,” says Schwartz. “You wake up on the morning and it is just another day. You know you drive on the right side of the street, put clothes on your body. You know who you are. It’s a ‘blah’ feeling sometimes, but there is a ben-

the world. Tishrei falls in the autumn, a time of great material beauty, namely the changing of the colors of the leaves. Nisan, on the other hand, falls in the spring, a time when beauty is only budding – renewing or resurfacing fresh off the winter. Rabbi Jessica Minnen, resident rabbi of New York’s OneTable initiative, which brings together Jews in their 20s and 30s for Shabbat dinners, takes this idea a step further. She says Nisan is the planting season, and Tishrei the harvesting season. Minnen tells JNS.org that a recent course she was teaching examined the differences between the two creation

Happy New Year

narratives in Genesis 1 and 2, which many modern scholars believe are competing stories. “In Genesis 1, God is breathing into Adam, into the Earth, the ground, the shape that is formed into a human being. In Genesis 2, God physically shapes Adam out of the ground,” Minnen says. “This is the planting and the harvesting, this is Nisan and Tishrei. We need both creation narratives, and we need Nisan and Tishrei to form a complete sense of who we are and who we can be.” “God created the world in Tishrei. But when did God start thinking about creating the world? That was Nisan,” notes Rabbi Mendy Wineberg, program director of the Chabad House Center of Kansas City. Wineberg says that while the fi rst man was fashioned by God in Tishrei, the Jewish people became a nation in Nisan, when God took them out of Egypt and ultimately gave them the Torah and its mitzvot. “God became king of the people on Rosh Hashanah. God became our personal king in Nisan,” says Wineberg. Minnen says the main message of all the Jewish New Years—Tishrei, Nisan, Shevat, Elul – is one of continuity. “You have these four opportunities to start over, to redefi ne who you are now and where you want to go,” she says. “Every day can be your New Year.”

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efit to that.” On the other hand, Nisan relates to the moon, which is changing daily, if not more frequently. Nisan is therefore the “head of the months,” and is “all about renewal” and change, Schwartz says. Tishrei and Nisan also are tied to the seasons in which they fall. Schwartz believes that at different times of year, there are different energies in

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22 | September 4, 2015

ROSH HASHANAH

The Jewish Voice

Read all about it: The five best new kids’ books for the High Holy Days BY PENNY SCHWARTZ JTA — From Antarctica to Shanghai and farms to cities, this year’s crop of High Holy Days books for children offers a globe-trotting exploration. Friendship and family are the themes that run through five new titles that entertain and inform young ones and older readers. Turning the pages of a new book is the perfect way to usher in the holidays.

Penguin Rosh Hashanah

(CreateSpace Independent Publishing; ages 3-6) Jennifer Tzivia MacLeod Celebrating Rosh Hashanah can be tough for a young penguin in Antarctica. There are no bees to make honey and no apple trees — just a lot of snow. In this warmhearted, off beat introduction to the Jewish New Year, illustrated with photographs of penguins and their natural habitat, the little penguin sometimes fi nds it hard to do the right thing. As part of an animal-themed series on Jewish holidays (“Otter Passover” and “Panda Purim”), the Israeli-based writer Jennifer Tzivia MacLeod conveys in simple rhythmic verse the themes of Rosh Hashanah – reflection, forgiveness, faith and family. Bonus: There’s a penguin origami craft project at the end.

Time to Start a Brand New Year

(Hachai Publishing; ages 2-5) Rochel Groner Vorst; illustrated

by Shepsil Scheinberg With this new title, Hachai Publishing adds to its collection of rhyming, colorful stories for young kids. This High Holidays story by Rochel Groner Vorst features a contemporary haredi Orthodox family getting ready to celebrate Rosh Hashanah by apple picking, harvesting honey and hearing the shofar. The author, who as a teen won Pittsburgh’s Holocaust poetry contest, is a kindergarten teacher at a Jewish day school

in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she grew up.

Talia and the Very Yum Kippur

(Kar-Ben; ages 4 to 8) Linda Elovitz Marshall; illustrated by Francesca Assirelli The endearing Talia makes a return in “Talia and the Very Yum Kippur,” Linda Elovitz M a r s h a l l ’s funny and c h a r m ing encore to “Talia and the Rude Vegetables” (2012), featuring a young

girl who sometimes confuses grown-up words that sound like others. It’s Yom Kippur and Talia is visiting her grandparents, who live on a farm. She helps her grandmother prepare a noodle kugel for the family’s break fast, including gathering eggs from the hen house and milking the cow with her grandfather. Kids will be tickled by the bit of merry mayhem that follows when Talia mistakes the Hebrew word “yom” (meaning “day”) for “yum” — and she begins to grow impatient for her family’s “breakfast” as she wonders why a “fast day” is moving so slowly. Grandma comes to the rescue by explaining that on Yom Kippur, people pray, fast and ask for forgiveness for any wrongdoings, leading to a heartfelt set of apologies between Talia and Grandma. A truly yummy break fast with her family ends the tale — and there’s a kugel recipe at the back of the book.

Tamar’s Sukkah

(Kar-Ben; ages 3-8) Ellie B. Gellman; illustrated by Katherine Janus Kahn Bursting with the colors of fall, “Tamar’s Sukkah” is an upbeat story that emphasizes

simple living, gratitude, and welcoming friends and strangers. Tamar, the spunky heroine of the tale, is on a mission to make her plain family sukkah just right — older kids in the neighborhood are invited, one by one, to lend a hand. The award-winning artist Katherine Janus Kahn, whose books include the hugely popular Sammy Spider series, brings the action to life with bright illustrations that depict a pleasant, suburban multiracial neighborhood fi lled

w it h squirrels, puppies and bunnies. In the fi nal doublepage spread, the kids gather to admire their handiwork and share a simplesnack. “A sukkah full of friends is just right,” Tamar exclaims. BOOKS | 23

There is something very special about the High Holy Days It’s a time for you to nourish your Jewish identity - to connect to the community and feel welcome. The Jewish Alliance and area synagogues are partnering for the fourth year to open their doors for the High Holy Days. Tickets are now available for the following High Holy Days: Erev Rosh Hashanah, September 13 First day of Rosh Hashanah, September 14 Second day of Rosh Hashanah, September 15 Erev Yom Kippur, September 22 Yom Kippur, September 23 Who is eligible? • New community members • Community members currently unaffiliated with any synagogue and have not yet been affiliated to the synagogue they wish to attend for 4 or more years • Community members who have never participated in this program

Tickets will be available through September 10. For more information contact Wendy Joering at 401.421.4111 ext. 169 or wjoering@jewishallianceri.org. Please note: This offer is valid for family members residing at the same address. Individuals age 25 and older must apply for their own tickets.

Participating Congregations: Congregation Agudas Achim, Attleboro Congregation Beth David, Narragansett Congregation Beth Sholom, Providence Congregation B’nai Israel, Woonsocket Congregation Sha'arei Tefilla, Providence Congregation Mishkon Tfiloh, Providence Congregation Sons of Jacob, Providence Newport Havurah* Temple Am David, Warwick Temple Beth-El, Providence Temple Emanu-El, Providence Temple Habonim*, Barrington Temple Shalom, Middletown Temple Sinai, Cranston Temple Torat Yisrael, East Greenwich Touro Synagogue, Newport United Brothers, Bristol West Bay Community Jewish Center, Warwick *All of Temple Habonim and Newport Havurah High Holy Day services are open to everyone.

‫שנה טובה‬

ROSH HASHANAH

thejewishvoice.org

FROM PAGE 22

BOOKS

Shanghai Sukkah

(Kar-Ben; ages 5-9) Heidi Smith Hyde; illustrations by Jing Jing Tsong Heidi Smith Hyde, an award-winning author (“Feivel’s Flying Horses,” “Emanuel and the Hanukkah Rescue”) and Jewish educator, delivers another intriguing tale of historical fiction that introduces older kids to Jewish life in less familiar settings and cultures. This Sukkot story imagines the experiences of a family that fled from Nazi Germany to Shanghai in the early 1930s. Despite his overcrowded neighborhood, young Marcus is eager to build a sukkah in his new country. Marcus and his Jewish pals, helped by their new friend Liang, build a simple rooftop sukkah using ingenuity and bamboo. But without fresh fruit available to decorate the sukkah, Marcus is disappointed that it is too plain. To cheer him up, Liang invites Marcus to the Chinese Moon Festival, China’s traditional autumn harvest festival. A puzzling riddle that Marcus fi nds inside a glowing paper lantern leads to an unexpected act of kindness by his new friend.

Even better than adding beauty to the sparely decorated sukkah, Marcus discovers a deeper meaning to the holiday.

Illustrations by the noted Hawaiian artist Jing Jing Tsong vividly portray daily Jewish life in Shanghai in shades of browns and grays — in contrast to the reds, gold and orange that pop on two double-page spreads depicting holidays, both Jewish and Chinese. An author’s note explains the heroism of Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara, who helped thousands of Jews escape Nazi Germany by obtaining visas to travel through Japan and eventually settle in Shanghai.

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September 4, 2015 |

Jeffrey K. Savit President & CEO

24 | September 4, 2015

ROSH HASHANAH

The Jewish Voice

Synagogues are gearing up for High Holy Day services BY ELLY LEYMAN PROVIDENCE – Rosh Hashanah is right around the corner and many area congregations offer passes for High Holy Day services, thanks to a partnership between The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and area synagogues. Individuals who are eligible for High Holy Day passes are: new members to the community, community members who are currently unaffiliated and have not been affiliated with a synagogue they wish to attend for more than four years, and community members who did not participate in this program last year. There are a number of synagogues that are offering free services and/or free tickets and are open to all, including Temple Habonim in Barrington and the Newport Havurah. While The Voice does not publish service schedules and times, what follows is a list representing every synagogue, temple, and congregational group in greater Rhode Island known to The Voice. Listed are telephone numbers, email addresses, and websites, where applicable. Please contact the synagogues directly for more information about their High Holy Day services including schedules.

ORTHODOX

Congregation Beth Sholom (CBS): 401-621-9393 or office@bethsholom-ri.org, www.

bethsholom-ri.org; Providence Congregation Jeshuat Israel at Touro Synagogue: 401-8474794 or cji@tourosynagogue. org, www.tourosynagogue.org; Newport Congregation Mishkon Tfiloh: 401-521-1616 or 401-4215074; Providence Congregation Ohawe Shalom: 401-722-3146; Pawtucket, RI. Congregation Sha’arei Tefilla: rds@shaareitefillaprov. org, www.shaareitefillaprov. org; Providence Congregation Sons of Jacob Synagogue: 401-274-5260 or congsons@hotmail.com, www.sonsofjacobsynagogue. org; Providence Orthodox Chavurah Minyan of New Bedford: 508-9936242, ext.15; contact: Rabbi Barry Hartman; New Bedford, MA. Project Shoresh of Rhode Island Learner’s Program: 401-632-3165 or nkarp@projectshoresh.com, www.projectshoresh.com; Providence

Congregation Am David: 401-463-7944 or amjoyce2@cox. net, www.templeamdavid.org; Warwick. Congregation Sharah Zedek: 401-345-1544 or mlewiss@ lewisslaw.com, www.congregationsharahzedek.org; Westerly Temple Beth-El of Fall River: 508-674-3529 or templebethel@comcast.net, www.frtemplebethel.org; Fall River, MA.

Temple Shalom: 401-8469002 or rabjag18@earthlink. net, templeshalomri.org; Middletown Temple Torat Yisrael: 401885-6600 or welcome@toratyisrael.org, www.toratyisrael.org; East Greenwich West Bay Community Jewish Center (WBCJC): rabbirichard@rabbiperlman.com or 401-392-8452, www.wbcjc.org; Warwick

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Brown RISD Hillel: 401-863-2733 or marshalleinhorn@ brown.edu, or rabbi@brow n.e du, wwwbrownrisd. hillel.org; Providence

CONSERVATIVE

Congregation Beth David of Narragansett: 401-789-3437 or info@cbdri.org, www.cbdri. org; Narragansett Congregation B’nai Israel: 401-762-3651 or synagogue@cbi. necoxmail.com, www.shalomcbi.org; Woonsocket Congregation Tifereth Israel: 508-997-3171 or www. tinewbedford.org; New Bedford, MA.

Temple Emanu-El: 401-3311616, www.teprov.org; Providence

Chabad Chai Center of West Bay: 401-884-7888, 401-884-4071, or rabbi@warwick.com,www. RabbiWarwick.com; Warwick Chabad House of Barrington: 401-247-4747 or rabbi @ j ew i s hb a r r i n g t on .c om , www.jewishbarrington.com; Barrington

Chabad of Rhode Island: 401-273-7238 or believeinprovidence@gmail.com; Providence Congregation Sons & Daughters of Ruth: 401-4662861 or etbi@me.com, Cantor Elliot Taubman; Block Island United Brothers Synagogue: 401-253-3460 or ubsbristol@gmail.com, www.unitedbrothersynagogue.org; Bristol URI Hillel: 401-874-2740 or hillel@urihillel.org, http://uri. hillel.org/home; Kingston, RI

RECONSTRUCTIONIST

Congregation Agudas Achim: 508-222-2243 or office@ agudasma.org, www.agudasma.org; Attleboro, Mass.

REFORM Temple Beth-El: 401-3316070 or info@temple-beth-el. org, www.temple-brth-el.org; Providence Temple Habonim: 401-2456536 or office@templehabonim. org, www.templehabonim.org; Barrington Temple Sinai: 401-942-8350 or contact Dottie Swajian at dottie@templesinairi.org, Cranston Newport Havurah: 401-8499197 or Newporthavurah1@ gmail.com, contact: Lynne Glickman; Newport To request High Holy Day passes, please contact Wendy Joering (wjoering@jewishallianceri.org) at 401-421-4111, ext.169. ELLY LEYMAN (elly207@ gmail.com) is a freelance writer and program coordinator and a member of Congregation Beth Sholom (CBS) in Providence.

thejewishvoice.org

Reform movement unveils inclusive holiday prayer book

BY GABE FRIEDMAN

JTA – When some Reform synagogue-goers open up their prayer books this High Holy Day season, they will be greeted with snippets of poems by the likes of Walt Whitman and Pablo Neruda. Feminist and LGBTQ-friendly terms and phrases will be subtly inc o r p o r ated into the prayers; sc at tered a m o n g t h o s e prayers will be original woodcut prints inspired by the holidays. How can this be, you ask? The Central Conference of American Rabbis, the principal organization of North American Reform rabbis, has revamped its High Holidays prayer book for the first time since 1978. The new prayer book, or machzor, titled “Mishkan HaNefesh,” reflects an effort to be more inclusive of women and LGBTQ Jews. In some cases, God is referred to as a woman. One passage substitutes the words “bride” and “groom” with the gender-neutral “couple.” In a blessing that calls congregants to the Torah, mention of gender is left out as a gesture to transgender people. “There’s no way to give you

a percentage [of what has changed] – it’s a totally new book,” said Rabbi Hara Person, the rabbinical group’s director of publications. “Of course, it’s based on the structure of any machzor … but it’s not just a sort of tweaked version.”

The new prayer book also features what Person calls counter texts, which accompany traditional prayers and challenge their assertions. For example, the important Unetaneh Tokef prayer is followed by a philosophical Carl Sandburg poem and then by the new sentence: “I speak these words, but I don’t believe them … clearly there’s no scientific foundation … .” In addition to textual changes, the new two-volume book contains original artwork for the first time: 11 commissioned woodcuts by renowned artist Joel Shapiro. The goal, Person says, is

to make all Jews, no matter how religious they are, feel more comfortable during High Holiday services, even if they only attend due to family pressure. When the prayer book was unveiled at the Central Conference of American Rabbis’ annual convention in March, 180 synagog ues had already ordered it. That number has risen to approximately 300 as the holidays approach. Person said there hasn’t been much b ack l a sh among Reform rabbis. The book has been in the pipeline for seven years, four of which involved testing it at services at select congregations across the country, so those in the know have been expecting the changes for some time. “We haven’t gotten any calls or emails saying ‘What did you do?’ ” Person said. “I think that the piloting and the education process paved the way because it became a very interactive process.”

ROSH HASHANAH

September 4, 2015 |

What’s happening locally? Among the Reform congregations in The Jewish Voice circulation area, Temple Sinai, in Cranston, and Temple Habonim, in Barrington, will be using “Mishkan HaNefesh” for all High Holiday services. Rabbi Jeffrey Goldwasser, of Temple Sinai, called the new machzor an improvement over the old, which has been used since 1978. “There is transliteration of every Hebrew prayer to make the prayer book easier to use for people who do not read the Hebrew alphabet. There is a variety of commentaries and interpretative readings to go with almost every prayer to make the worship experience

richer and more varied,” he said. “The translations are more poetic and contemporary. The language is ‘gender inclusive’ – the prayer book does not pretend that all of our ancestors were men or that God should always be described as a male.” Temple Beth-El, in Providence, will use some parts of the new machzor during the second day of Rosh Hashanah services, according to Rabbi Sarah Mack, but will wait a year or two to switch completely. – FRAN OSTENDORF

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26 | September 4, 2015

ROSH HASHANAH

The Jewish Voice

E-High Holy Days Streaming High Holy Day services BY IRINA MISSIURO High Holy Days are upon us, and we’re looking through our closets for appropriate outfits to wear to the synagogue. But what if we could attend in our pajamas? Moreover, what if we could participate while our hair was in rollers? No,

we wouldn’t be disrespectful – we’d be live streaming. Say what? Live streaming is a way to take part in services over the Internet. For the past 10 years or so, many synagogues have been offering this option to those who cannot attend in

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person. People are grateful for being able to observe in spite of sickness, infi rmity, distance and familial obstacles. Live streaming is proof that a digital revolution is upon us. Offered on various platforms, the option allows the willing to worship along with the congregation, making them feel like they’re a part of the experience. The viewers have various reasons to log on – they might be new parents who cannot leave their young children, college students who are unable to get to a Hillel, ill people in hospitals – the list goes on. As long as you have an internet connection, you can watch services in real time. What’s more, you can even interact with other online visitors by commenting in dialogue boxes, enhancing your experience. In addition, some former members who like reconnecting with their old congregation appreciate the opportunity to do so via live streaming. The option also attracts a younger crowd, engaging a demographic that’s not as enthusiastic about going to a synagogue as their parents or grandparents are. They enjoy the technological aspect of the ancient tradition. In Rhode Island, Temple Beth-El and Temple Emanu-El offer live transmission of High Holy Day services. Beth-El’s Rabbi Sarah Mack says, “We

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are thrilled to make our service available both with callin service and live streaming in an effort to share music and prayers with our whole Temple Beth-El family. It is our hope that we can involve those who cannot physically make it to Temple Beth-El in the warm embrace of community through this service.”

Andrew Sholes, president of Temple Torat Yisrael, says, “Temple Torat Yisrael does not offer streaming of any service at this time. We are exploring streaming services online via the Internet but have not made a fi nal decision. The cost of the installation and operation of the streaming needs to be weighed against the demand of the congregants for such a service. If we did streaming, it would be with audio and video.” Some options for those who would like to try live streaming:

Emanu-El’s Rabbi Elan Babchuck concurs, “While we expect to see many members of our broad community during the High Holy Days, we know that there are countless others who are unable to be with us, for myriad reasons. And yet, our tradition teaches us that a community’s prayer is most effective when all of its members pool their voices together, singing as one. So our hope is that those who can’t physically be with us will join us via the live stream, and add to our communal prayers – from wherever they are – during these liminal days of our Jewish year.” Orthodox congregations don’t participate because they adhere to a more strict interpretation of holiday prohibitions. Other synagogues simply can’t afford the service.

You may listen to live High Holy Day services at Temple Beth-El. Using a touch tone phone, call 1-800-846-4808. Follow voice instructions and punch in account code 93316070. Using a speakerphone will enhance your experience of listening to the service. Through the generosity of a Temple Beth-El member, there will be no charge to listeners. h t t p : // s t r e a m s p o t . c o m venue/?id=faa8314b

Temple Beth-El

Temple Emanu-El

https://livestream.com/accounts/4957454 ReformJudaism.org offers an extensive list of where you can stream services across the country: reformjudaism. org/attend-shabbat-servicesonline IRINA MISSIURO is a writer and editor. She lives in Providence.

ROSH HASHANAH

thejewishvoice.org

September 4, 2015 |

Being Jewish beyond the holidays BY SALLY ABRAMS (Kveller via JTA) – If a stranger followed you around for a few days, how long would it take for him to figure out that you are Jewish? This question was posed to me in a parenting discussion group many years ago and has intrigued me ever since. My husband and I put everything we had into creating a Jewish home and raising our four children to be strongly, proudly Jewish. Now it is their turn to raise Jewish children. And so I ponder the question again, this time from the vantage point of a grandparent of infants and toddlers. The question has changed only slightly: If a stranger spent a few days at your home, how would he know that a Jewish family lives there? Perhaps the answer can be found in this sweet story. For 15 years I taught Hebrew at Jewish day schools and for college credit in supplementary schools. A dozen years ago I planned a special end-ofthe-year activity for my eighthgrade Hebrew class: We would learn how to prepare falafel and Israeli salad using Hebrew recipes and then use them to make lunch at my house. The students eagerly learned the recipes, and when the day came, set about cooking together, speaking only in Hebrew. We devoured the delicious food they prepared and continued chatting through lunch in Hebrew. After lunch came a surprise activity – a scavenger hunt! I paired off the students and gave each pair a list of items to find, items that I had strategically placed all over the house. Tallitot (prayer shawls) and

kippot (head coverings) on the coffee table; a yad next to the spice rack; the seder plate on the pool table; a chumash (Torah) rested on the piano. The hunt included more than just ritual objects. The list also included items that emphasized Israel, Zionism, kashrut (kosher), Jewish culture and peoplehood. Would the kids spot the family photos from trips to Israel? Israeli music CDs? Israeli films on DVD? The Hebrew-English keyboard? The kosher cookbooks? The Jewish calendar? How many mezuzot would they count on doorposts throughout the house? Most of all, I wondered if the kids would notice the tzedakah box sitting on the clothes dryer, and if they would realize why it was in the laundry room, of all places. The students raced through the house, checking off each item and where they found it. At last they finished and I gathered them all on the porch to talk. “Why do you think we did this activity?” I asked. “Because it was fun!” one student replied immediately. “I’m really glad that it was fun,” I said, “but that was not the only reason. What else?” “Because you wanted us to see that you have really nice things,” said another. “I’ll bet that all of you have nice Jewish objects at home, too. What else?” Little by little the discussion led them to the lesson I wanted to teach: that if you are serious about being Jewish, you will find signs of it everywhere in your home. Because Judaism is, most of all, about doing – the rituals and behaviors that elevate, that enable us to bring a spark of holiness to even the most mun-

dane activities. Which led me to ask them one final question: Why was there a tzedakah box in the laundry room? “Because lots of change falls out of pockets in the dryer,” said one girl. I waited to see what might come next. At last, someone said, “Because thinking of tzedakah while you do the laundry makes doing laundry more than just a chore.” “Exactly,” I said. “It’s a Jewish way of doing laundry.” It got the kids thinking. As eighth-graders they were one year post-bar/bat mitzvah. My goal was that our simple activity would remind them that between the momentous occasions of the bris, bar/bat mitzvah and the chuppah lie countless opportunities to enrich and elevate their Jewish lives. So how would a stranger know that a Jewish family lives at your house? Like everything Jewish, it all begins with asking a question. SALLY ABRAMS is a mother and grandmother, blogger for the Times of Israel and TCJewfolk, and co-director of the Speakers Bureau for the JCRC of Minnesota and the Dakotas. Kveller is a community of women and parents who convene online to share, celebrate and commiserate their experiences of raising kids through a Jewish lens. Visit Kveller.com.

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The Jewish Voice FROM PAGE 1

LOOKING BACK 22-year-old tourist from Ecuador, died several days later. • Relations between the Obama White House and Prime Minister Netanyahu reach a new low after an anonymous American official calls the Israeli leader a “chickenshit” in an interview with Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic. • Open Hillel, the movement launched to counter the campus organization’s regulations on Israel programming, holds its first national conference, at Harvard University. The two-day gathering draws some 350 participants for a conference aimed at pushing back against Hillel International rules prohibiting programs that feature groups or individuals who “delegitimize” Israel or support the Boycotts, Divestment and Sanctions movement against the Jewish state. • SodaStream, the Israeli athome seltzer machine company, announces that it will close its West Bank factory and move the facility’s operations to southern Israel in 2015. The company says the move out of the Jewish settlement of Mishor Adumim is unrelated to boycott threats. • The core exhibit of the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, a more than $100 million complex first conceived more than 20 years ago, is inaugurated with Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski and Israeli President Reuven Rivlin on hand.

PHOTO BY RUTH ELLEN GRUBER.

The reconstructed painted ceiling of the wooden synagogue of Gwozdziec, a key installation in the core exhibit of the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

November 2014

• As Republicans retake the Senate in midterm elections, a state senator from New York’s Long Island, Lee Zeldin, is elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the sole Jewish Republican in Congress. • Four Jewish immigrants and a Druze policeman are killed during morning prayer services in a terrorist attack at a Jerusalem synagogue, Bnei Torah Kehillat Yaakov, in the Har Nof neighborhood. The victims include Rabbi Mosheh Twersky, the dean of the Torat Moshe Yeshiva and the grandson of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, the founder of modern Orthodoxy. • Israel’s Cabinet grants initial passage to a controversial bill that would identify Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people, prompting concern at home and among some American Jews that it will prioritize Israel’s Jewish character over its democracy. Acrimony over the bill sparks a coalition crisis that ends up

dissolving the Knesset in early December and sending Israel to early elections scheduled for the following March. • Steven Pruzansky, a New Jersey Orthodox rabbi known for his incendiary rhetoric, is broadly criticized for publishing a blog post saying that Arabs in Israel are an enemy that must be “vanquished.” The post, titled “Dealing with Savages,” draws a strong rebuke from the Orthodox Union, which calls it “anathema to the Jewish religious tradition.” • As the Ebola epidemic spreads in three countries in Africa, IsraAid becomes the sole Israeli or Jewish organization on the ground in the hot zone. • A state monitor slams the East Ramapo Central School District in New York’s Rockland County for giving preferential treatment to Orthodox schoolchildren who do not attend public schools. The school board, which is majority Orthodox, had LOOKING BACK | 29

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LOOKING BACK

December 2014

• France’s parliament, the National Assembly, votes 339-151 to urge the French government to recognize the state of Palestine. The vote follows similar motions passed the previous month by parliaments in Britain and Ireland. • An oil pipeline ruptures near the southern Israeli resort city of Eilat, causing a spill that is called one of Israel’s worst environmental disasters. • The United Auto Workers Local 2865, which represents more than 13,000 teaching assistants, tutors and other student workers in the University of California system, approves a resolution to join the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement against Israel, becoming the first major U.S. labor union to hold a membership vote on Israel and BDS. • The European Parliament passes a resolution that supports, in principle, recognition of a Palestinian state as part of peace talks with Israel in a 498-88 vote with 111 abstentions. Meanwhile, the General Court of the European Union annuls Hamas’ inclusion on a blacklist of terrorist groups, saying the 2001 decision was based on press reports and not legal reasoning. • Alan Gross, a JewishAmerican contractor for the U.S. government who had spent five years in a Cuban prison for helping connect Cuban Jews to the Internet, is released and returned to the U.S. as part of a deal to restore diplomatic ties between Washington and Havana. • Jewish immigration from France to Israel reaches an alltime record of nearly 7,000 in 2014, more than doubling the French aliyah rate in 2013 and far outstripping immigration to Israel from the United States. Overall, immigration to Israel hits a 10-year high in 2014 with approximately 26,500 new immigrants. • The Conservative movement youth group USY votes to relax rules barring teenage board members from dating non-Jews.

September 4, 2015 |

February 2015

FROM PAGE 28

been under fire for years for allegedly diverting public funds to religious schools. • Jonathan Greenblatt, a former special assistant to President Obama, is named the next national director of the Anti-Defamation League. Greenblatt is slated to replace Abraham Foxman, the ADL’s leader since 1987. • World powers, led by the United States, extend the deadline in negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program to June 30, 2015, prompting a call by AIPAC for new sanctions against the Islamic Republic. Ultimately, additional sanctions are not levied during the negotiations, which last until a deal is struck in early July 2015.

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FEGS, a Jewish charity, abruptly shuts down.

• President Obama signs the 2014 United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act. The law, which unanimously passed the House and Senate, declares Israel a “major strategic partner,” upgrades the value of American weapons stockpiles in Israel and grants the Jewish state improved trade status. • As 2014 draws to a close, Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics announces that the country’s population grew by 2 percent in 2014, to 8.3 million. Of them, 74.9 percent are counted as Jews, 20.7 percent as Arabs and 4.3 percent as others.

January 2015

• Streit’s announces it is closing its historic, six-story matzah factory on New York’s Lower East Side, where the company produced the Passover staple for 90 years. It will relocate operations to New Jersey. • JTA, the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, announces it is merging with MyJewishLearning to create 70 Faces Media. The new organization’s three primary brands – the news and syndication portal JTA.org, the Jewish encyclopedia MyJewishLearning.com and the parenting website Kveller.com – are to remain distinct. • Bess Myerson, the only Jewish woman to win the Miss America pageant, dies at 90. Myerson won the competition in 1945. • Four Jewish men are killed by an Islamic gunman during a hostage siege at a kosher supermarket in Paris two days after a pair of Islamic gunmen storm the Paris offices of a satirical newspaper, Charlie Hebdo, killing 11. The supermarket gunman, Amedy Coulibaly, is killed when police storm the Hyper Cacher market. Almost simultaneously, police kill the perpetrators of the Charlie Hebdo attack. The events, which prompt a massive anti-terrorism demonstration in Paris, stoke fears of French Jews about their future in the country. • Actor Michael Douglas is named the winner of the Genesis Prize. The $1 million award, given by a consortium of philanthropists from the former Soviet

Union, is meant to recognize accomplished Jews who demonstrate commitment to Jewish values. • FEGS, a Jewish charity and one of the largest social service agencies in the United States, abruptly shuts down after losing $19.4 million in 2014. The 3,000-employee agency had said it served 12,000 people daily in areas such as home care, job training and immigrant services. The news comes just days after another major New York Jewish social services agency, the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, announces it is looking to merge or partner with other organizations or perhaps close altogether. • Alberto Nisman – the indefatigable Argentine prosecutor collecting evidence of culpability in the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish center in Buenos Aires – is found shot to death in his apartment, just hours before he is to present evidence to Argentina’s congress that he said implicated his country’s president and Jewish foreign minister in a scheme to cover up Iran’s role in the bombing. • New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is arrested on federal corruption charges. One of the state’s most powerful politicians and highprofile Orthodox Jews, Silver steps down as speaker but retains his Assembly seat while the investigation is ongoing. • House Speaker John Boehner invites Prime Minister Netanyahu to address a joint session of Congress on Iran’s nuclear program. The move sparks a showdown with the Obama administration, which says the invite breaks protocol by circumventing the White House and is inappropriate given that the Israeli leader is in the midst of an election campaign. • Portugal’s government adopts legislation that offers citizenship to some descendants of Sephardic Jews, making Portugal the second country in the world after Israel to pass a law of return for Jews.

• Comedian Jon Stewart announces he is leaving “The Daily Show,” the mock news program he anchored for 16 years and built into a political and cultural touchstone. • Europe’s Jewish population is pegged at 1.4 million, down from 2 million in 1991 and 3.2 million in 1960, according to a new Pew Research Center survey. European Jews account for about 10 percent of the world Jewish population, compared to 57 percent in 1939, the eve of the Holocaust. • CBS News reporter Bob Simon, an Emmy Award-winning correspondent who was held captive in Iraq for 40 days while covering the Gulf War, is killed in a car crash in New York. • A gunman attacks the main synagogue in Copenhagen, killing a security guard. The attack comes hours after a gunman kills one person at a cafe in the city where a caricaturist who had lampooned Islam was speaking.

• More than half of U.S. Jewish college students witnessed or experienced anti-Semitism, an online survey conducted by two professors at Trinity College finds • In a landmark case, a New York jury orders the PLO and the Palestinian Authority to pay more than $218 million in damages to American victims of six terrorist attacks that took place in Israel between 2002 and 2004 and were attributed to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade and Hamas. The Palestinian Authority pledges to appeal. Leonard Nimoy, the actor who portrayed the iconic character Spock on “Star Trek” for over four decades on television and in film, dies at 83. Born in Boston to Yiddish-speaking Orthodox parents, Nimoy had said he derived Spock’s trademark split-finger salute from the priestly blessing that involves a physical approximation of the Hebrew letter “shin.”

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30 | September 4, 2015

The Jewish Voice

PHOTOS | RI COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS, KAREN JEFFREYS

Clergy marched from Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on Francis Street to the State House in force to remind elected oﬃcials that everyone must work together to reduce poverty. FROM PAGE 1 |

LOCAL 5775 Stanley Aronson: Founding dean of medicine at Brown University dies at 92

Dr. Stanley Aronson, whose legacy included co-founding the Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Home & Hospice Care of Rhode Island, died in hospice care in Providence on Jan. 28, 2015. Aronson also wrote a column for the Jewish Voice for 18 years. His fi rst column appeared in 1997. Colleagues and friends remember him as a man who was great in many different ways, but who practiced and preached humility and humanity in everything he did. Aronson’s work to preserve the lives and health of patients and to provide dignified care and comfort to those fi nally, inevitably dying made him an exalted leader.

Rhode Island’s National Council of Jewish Women disbands

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On Dec. 11, 2014, the leadership of the NCJW in Rhode Island notified its membership that after 106 years of advocacy for women, children and families, the board voted to disband the Rhode Island section. In April, a luncheon was

held to honor the leaders and take the fi nal vote. The state advocate continues to work on issues important to NCJW in the state legislature.

Mikveh Nachman v’Raizel dedicated

Food and Shelter Program, which provides funding for R.I. food pantries and shelter programs. Ongoing efforts include advocacy for Medicare, Medicaid, behavioral health, Holocaust survivor benefits and advocacy for Israel.

The refurbished mikveh reopened to the community with a special relevance for the community’s women. It is more than a “ritualarium,” it is a “Spa for the Soul.” As a “body of living water,” mikveh evokes the similarly spelled Hebrew word tikvah which means “hope.”

Rabbi James Rosenberg was honored with the Hebert W. Bolles Life Achievement Award presented by the R.I. State Council of Churches for his deep involvement in state and local interfaith activities.

CRC and JFNA advocate in Washington for Jewish community

Rhode Island faith leaders call for commitment to fight poverty

The Community Relations Council of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island (CRC) and the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) did considerable advocating on behalf of the Jewish community in Rhode Island. Issues included the IRA Charitable Rollover Extension; The protection and opposition of eliminating the Charitable Tax Deduction; The ABLE Act (Achieving a Better Life Experience), widely viewed as the most important disability legislation to pass Congress since the Americans with Disabilities Act nearly 25 years ago; The Emergency

Rabbi Rosenberg honored by R.I. State Council of Churches

Leaders representing virtually every faith in Rhode Island marched uphill to the beat of drums through Providence to the State House. The march was meant to symbolize the day-to-day struggle faced by many Rhode Islanders. At the State House, the sound of four shofars called the faith community and Rhode Island’s elected officials to work together to fi ght to reduce poverty.

Jewish Family Service celebrated 85 years of service to the community

Jewish Family Service of R.I. (JFSRI) was established LOCAL 5775 |31

thejewishvoice.org FROM PAGE 30

LOCAL 5775 in 1929 to help people of all religions and from all walks of life navigate social services to make their lives safer, healthier and happier. Their mission – to sustain, nurture and strengthen the emotional and general well-being and stability of families and individuals through the life cycle, within the framework of Jewish tradition and values.

Miriam Plitt inducted into Pawtucket Hall of Fame

Miriam R. Plitt, along with three other women, became members of the Pawtucket Hall of Fame in October 2014. Nominated by Robert Metivier, former mayor of Pawtucket, Plitt was recognized for her volunteer efforts to improve the lives of Pawtucket residents. Plitt said that acts of kindness are a given, “It’s part of my upbringing, it’s part of our heritage to give back and make the world a better place.”

Model Community Passover Seder

Buses brought seniors from the community to Congregation Am David to celebrate Passover. Older Rhode Islanders and people with disabilities united for a special seder that was shortened. Round tables beckoned with Passover platters and grape juice. Everyone enjoyed the event.

HaZamir performed

Teen members of HaZamir Providence performed at Lincoln Center’s Avery Hall. The International Jewish High School Choir is a network of choral chapters across the U.S. and Israel that provides Jewish teens with a high-level choral experience in a Jewish environment.

New England Rabbinical College celebrated an anniversary

The New England Rabbinical College hosted a 30th anniversary dinner. The local community and many out-of-town guests attended in support of the school and its honorees. It was an inspiring and entertaining evening.

Former first ladies of Rhode Island recognized

Citations acknowledging their contributions to Rhode Island were presented to five former first ladies: Dorothy (Dottie) Licht, 1969-1973; Margherite Garrahy, 1977-1985; Marjorie Sundlun, 1991-1995; Marilyn Almond, 1995-2003; Suzanne (Sue) Carcieri, 20032011. Together these women have a combined 32 years of experience in the role of first lady, and they all made a significant mark on Rhode Island.

David Kertzer wins Pulitzer

Historian David Kertzer won a Pulitzer Prize for his biography detailing how Benito Mussolini’s secret relationship

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with Pope Pius XI influenced the Italian dictator’s persecution of his country’s Jews. Kertzer is a professor of anthropology and Italian studies at Brown University and was recognized in the biographyautobiography category for “The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and Rise of Fascism in Europe.”

Holocaust Memorial constructed

Ten years of meetings, designs, negotiations, stops and starts all led to a morning with shovels in the ground, handshakes and excitement in the air. Construction on the Holocaust Memorial in Rhode Island began with the start of the warm weather. And by the end of August, it was done. For both the groundbreaking and the dedication, a crowd of dignitaries and community members listened to speeches, accolades and stories. Every speaker reminded the crowd of the importance of this monument to survivors as well as to the victims.

Alice Goldstein honored by Temple Am David and community

At a gala event, Alice Dreifuss Goldstein, who told the stories of her life in her memoir, “Ordinary People, Turbulent Times,” was honored. Speakers all alluded to her talents as a teacher and the life lessons she imparted by

“Whether for eldercare issues, health assistance, foreclosure, parenting resources or Jewish life, it will help individuals access what they need when they need it,” says Wendy Joering, community concierge. The site is still evolving as more needs are identified.

Baxt gift adds to improvements

Gussie Baxt announced a gift to help complete the rejuvenation project of the Dwares JCC. At 91, the Providence native knows it’s important to bring young families into the building. Her gift will go toward the planned renovation of the Social Hall. The end result will be simple and elegant, a room that will welcome the entire community. The Baxt gift is part of a $6 million campaign goal to modernize and make the entire building secure and accessible for all community members.

Temple Beth-El honors Rabbi Gutterman as he retires

Temple Beth-El held a celebratory weekend honoring Rabbi Leslie Yale Gutterman’s 45 years of service as rabbi and his transition to Senior Rabbi Emeritus status in July 2015. Gutterman came to Temple Beth-El in 1970 under then Senior Rabbi William G. Braude. Upon Braude’s retirement in 1974, Gutterman was selected to replace him. He is the longest serving rabbi in Rhode Island. The Jewish Daily Forward recently named him one of the 33 most inspiring rabbis in North America. In July, Rabbi Howard Voss-Altman from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, replaced Gutterman.

September 4, 2015 |

Sam Buckler and Tillie Orleck, above, with Cantor Steven Dress, Miriam Snell at right.

United Brothers Synagogue welcomes new rabbi

word and by deed. “Alice fit the profile of the Eshet Chayil, a Woman of Valor,” said Gloria Feibish.

Block Island congregation celebrates its 28th birthday

In 1980 a handful of Jewish residents of Block Island came together to consider a shared idea: hold regular Shabbat and High Holy Day services. This first simple step eventually led the group to formalize their common vision to create a temple on the island. Congregation Sons and Daughters of Ruth, holds services in a local church.

Lawsuit unfolding in congregational dispute

A high-profile dispute in the Rhode Island and New York Jewish communities went to trial in June. The lawsuit involves Newport’s Congregation Jeshuat Israel and New York’s Congregation Shearith Israel. The dispute began in 2012 when a set of rimonim dating to the 18th century was sold to Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. The proceeds from the $7.4 million sale were used to create an endowment to maintain the Touro building and keep a rabbi in residence. Shearith Israel, America’s old-

est congregation, objected to the transaction, saying that Jeshuat Israel did not have the right to sell synagogue property. Jeshuat Israel argued that the New York congregation has not been involved in the property for years. Closing arguments were to have been heard at the end of July but as of publication have still not gone forward.

AccessJewishRI.org is here!

AccessJewishRI.org, a new information and referral service, debuted in August. More than a website, there’s a free confidential phone line offering personalized assistance to those who do not use a computer or who can’t find what they are looking for online. AccessJewishRI.org is a simple way to find information most relevant to one’s needs and interests.

Carolan Glatstein is the new rabbi at United Brothers Synagogue in Bristol. She studied in Jerusalem during the first year of her graduate program at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Her husband is also a rabbi and works at Temple Chayai Shalom in Easton, Mass.

Camp JORI’s Guttin steps down

Ronni Saltzman Guttin is stepping down as director after 20 years of devoted service to begin a new chapter in her camping career. Board president Deborah Salinger said, “the executive committee and entire board will work with Guttin, assistant director Rachel Mersky Woda and JORI’s experienced and committed staff to ensure a smooth transition and conduct a national search for a new director.” We look forward to a positive, sweet and healthy 5776. See you next year.

32 | September 4, 2015

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Holocaust victims receive payment from Child Survivor Fund After prolonged negotiations with the German government, the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany has created the Child Survivor Fund. The purpose of the fund is to provide one-time payments of 2,500 euros for survivors who suffered persecution as children. Those who believe they are eligible to receive payments should fi ll out a free application on ClaimsCon.org. Because thousands of applications arrive at the office on a regular basis, the determination of eligibility takes several months. Only victims of persecution can receive payment; heirs are ineligible to fi le applications. There is no income limit. Here is a condensed version of the Frequently Asked Questions of the Child Survivor Fund: Q. Who is eligible? A. The fund is open to Nazi victims who were persecuted as Jews and were born Jan. 1, 1928,

or later and who suffered one of the following types of persecution: • Were in a concentration camp • Were in a ghetto • Were in hiding or living under a false identity/illegally for a period of at least six months in Nazi-occupied or Axis countries • Were a fetus during the time that their mother suffered persecution as described above. Q. Are heirs entitled? A. If the child survivor applied, is eligible and subsequently dies, the surviving spouse is entitled to payment. If there is no surviving spouse, the child(ren) of the eligible child survivor is (are) entitled to the payment. Q. I have received previous compensation payments or I am currently receiving payments from the Claims Conference or the German government. Do I need to request an application?

A. Previous payment from the Claims Conference is not a guarantee that you will be eligible for this program.

Q. Will there be an appeals process? A. Yes, there will be an independent appeals process. If you receive a rejection letter, it will include the contact information and required timeframe for the independent appeals authority.

Q. What if the applicant is incapacitated and cannot sign the application form? A. The application can be signed by an authorized representative or a power-of-attorney holder. Along with the application form, submit a copy of the power of attorney document; a copy of the authorized representative’s government-issued ID; and either a note signed and written on letterhead from a doctor or medical professional caring for the applicant or a recent copy of a bill or bank statement in the applicant’s name.

Q. Where should I send the form? A. Claims Conference; 1359

Broadway, Room 2000; New York, N.Y. 10018 Q. How can I fi nd out if my form was received? A. You should receive an acknowledgement letter within eight weeks of submitting your application form. – JEWISH VOICE STAFF

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Q. Who can help me if I need assistance? A. The Claims Conference can refer you to a local social service agency that can help you. You can also fi nd a local social service agency on its website.

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34 | September 4, 2015

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REMEMBER THE PAST From the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association

Remembering the Women’s Division annual campaign BY GERALDINE S. FOSTER It’s Elul, the month of introspection, and August has ended. Summer is over, and the school year is beginning. It’s time to prepare for the High Holy Days and Sukkot. And, way back when there was a separate Women’s Division of the General Jewish Committee and the Jewish Federation (the antecedents of the Jewish Alliance), it was time to get ready for the annual fundraising campaign. The campaign was part of my Jewish life cycle as far back as my teen years. I was not unique. Seena Dittleman, of Cranston, stated in a recent conversation that it was in her DNA to do something in a religious way as well as for the community. “Being involved in the community was part of my inheritance…. Having breakfast and Jewish activities were part of the daily routine,” she said during a recent conversation. Seena’s mother, Anne Kovitch, was very active at Temple Beth Israel, in Providence, serving on many projects as well as becoming Sisterhood president. She also took a leadership role in the earliest days of the women’s campaign. “My mother was an area chairman. Back then, calls were made from the GJC office. When someone made a pledge, my mother sent me to pick it up. I was 16 and was driving, and I had my own car. I would go to pick up the money and bring it back to the office. [On one trip] I went to Willard Avenue. This was before all the changes.

Seena Dittleman There were Jewish stores, Kosher butchers and bakeries …. “The houses were very close together, and the porches were right on the sidewalk. The little old ladies – they were probably younger than I am now – would save their change all year long and give me the money. I can still see them sitting on the porches waiting for me. That was how I got started at 16.” After their marriage, Seena and her husband, Martin Dittleman, were involved in the community and fundraising. Seena took a particular interest in ORT and the National Council of Jewish Women, as well as their temple. She lamented that neither of the two women’s organizations exist in Rhode Island at this time. Our conversation then returned to some of her experiences with the Wom-

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en’s Division. Seena began taking a more active role in the Women’s Division when Sylvia Hassenfeld was the campaign chairwoman. “Sylvia raised the level of our thinking and our ability to do things. She encouraged us to reach a little higher, to give and to ask for a little bit more even when it was uncomfortable …. You could not say no to Sylvia. Marion Goldsmith was another person to whom you could not say no.” When asked to head the campaign in Cranston, Seena accepted and was successful in her efforts. Looking back on her experience, she shared some candid observations. The same volunteers worked on the campaign every year. They were not very excited about the job that had to be done, but they did it. Attracting new people to make calls was difficult. Friends who did not participate in any way were a disappointment. The Women’s Division Campaign held individual events, where donors and perspective donors were invited to a private home for lunch and a motivational speaker. Which invitation you received depended on your level of giving. Although the underlying emphasis was on fundraising, attendance became more a matter of status, Seena stated. “Beautiful homes attracted people.” One such lunch was held at a beautiful estate. “It was packed. People came to see the house and grounds, not to hear the speaker.” As it happens, the event was held in a tent on a sweltering day. The house was not opened for the assemblage. As people gathered, Seena noticed someone standing alone and invited the woman to sit with her. She accepted and later said she knew no one there and would have left but for that kindness. Although not a hostess at the event, Seena saw being hospitable as her job at community events, even at someone else’s home. Making people feel welcome has always been important to her. And she does so with panache. These days, Seena volunteers with the Jewish Seniors Agency, an organization in which Martin is very involved. And since she cannot say no, Seena still takes cards for the Jewish Alliance’s fundraising campaign. It’s in her DNA. GERALDINE FOSTER is a past president of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association. To comment about this or any Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association article, email info@rijha.org.

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September 4, 2015 |

‘Dumbo’ was Jewish – who knew! The American dream is often derived from a Jewish fantasy BY MIKE FINK I came across an odd and intriguing obituary: one Helen Aberson of Syracuse, New York, had died and asked the mourners to contribute to the United Jewish Appeal. Oh, and by the way, nonagenarian Helen Aberson had published one book, a children’s tale titled “Dumbo.” She claimed it was her autobiography!

SKETCHBOOK MIKE FINK

Walt Disney read the little story of the baby circus elephant with the big ears and purchased the rights to it for ... $400. The animated feature saved the Disney studio, was an instant success and pleased even the critics but was released without naming Helen Aberson as the author. She got herself a lawyer and sued and won: an additional $1,000. And that was the end of the pachyderm progress. I discovered that there was a copy of Aberson’s original words and sketches in the special collection treasure chest at the Syracuse University Library. They kindly sent me Xeroxed pages both of the Aberson text and of the early story board of the Disney version. Some of the narrative details surprised me. Dumbo’s plight is not only because of his ears, but also his slight figure. An elephant should be a Jumbo, a giant, not a Dumbo, shy and diminutive, with short legs. And it’s not a mouse who befriends the outcast, it’s a robin! I have to admit, in comparing the cast of characters, I can’t argue with Disney and his stable of artists. The scene with the Jim Crow chorus – actually a renowned Harlem band – adds a Depression-era touch of authenticity to the movie. The black birds may mock Dumbo, but they also understand and encourage him, just as the “Negro” and Jewish entertainers of the era collaborated on creating popular culture. And then, Dumbo’s mother in Aberson’s account has a name, “Ella.” The bond between them plays a major role in the book, a n o t h e r au t o b i o g r a p h i c a l touch. As a professor at RISD – which has a film department with an animation major, among other choices for undergraduates – I teach a wide range of courses within the liberal arts and associated with the motion picture studio division. I screen “Dumbo” in two elective classes, one on Hollywood history, another on Jewish narrative

arts. I use a DVD that promises on its jacket to tell the history of the Dumbo design – but it omits all mention of Helen Aberson! And then, what about “Bambi”? Felix Salten (nee Saltzman) was a Jewish journalist who created many adventures for diverse animals, ranging from squirrels to horses, from dogs to, most notably, deer. Was Bambi, like Dumbo, also Jewish and wearing a Purim mask to hide the face and the soul of the poet? The scene of the death of the mother, surrounded by hunters, has multiple meanings. The frightening ordeal for Bambi is a metaphor for a pogrom and possibly, in addition, a reference to the antiSemitic riots in Paris at the time of the Dreyfus case. As a former hunter himself, Salten repudiated that assimilationist gesture of joining aristocratic culture and founded an art of ecological resistance, at least as I see and present it. He also had witnessed, as a newspaper reporter, the Dreyfus case and all that followed from it. But back to Walt Disney. John Galsworthy translated “Bambi” on board a transatlantic ship and sent each page to the Disney studio. In time, Salten was arrested by the Nazis, was interred in a concentration camp in Switzerland and was released upon the intervention of Walt Disney. Salten died shortly after his rescue. I recently made my way to a Holocaust museum in Toronto and saw a bust of the author as a proud part of its collection. (Brown University’s libraries house the complete works of Felix Salten.) So this report is not intended entirely as a condemnation of Walt Disney’s production of entertainment throughout his fabulous career. It is intended, however, to remind us to recognize how very often the American dream derives from a Jewish fantasy – like Hollywood itself – and how little profit or benefit falls like rain or sunshine upon the creative spirit. Disney’s questionable personal politics have been amply presented both by scholars and by biographers, from the E.L. Doctorow diatribe to critics of the ecological assault on Florida and California from the Disney amusement parks, which replace the actual landscape with a plastic wilderness. Nevertheless, artists have more to say than they may consciously realize. For me as a teacher, the crime of the later Disney output is that he rejects the poignant, even tragic, aspects of folklore. Fairy tales are not merely escapes from the fears and nightmares of children; on the contrary, they permit boys and girls to prepare for life’s disappointments, losses and failures. Dumbo must help his mother – like the sons

and daughters of immigrants did. Bambi must grow up without a mother, supported by his friends – a sort of resistance, partisan community of unrelated souls – and make his own way in the world. A child leaving the

theater might be sad, but is also uplifted by the drama. Without the sad parts, the movie is gratifying only superficially, not profoundly. My very first movie was “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Snow White is rescued from the cruelty and injustice of wealth and power by the working class and by the creatures who hide in the woods but bless the innocent.

My memory of “Fantasia” is of the Mickey Mouse who, as the Sorcerer’s Apprentice, is overwhelmed by the miracles of technology but must surrender his illusion of control.

You can’t stop “progress,” but we must all learn to curb our theft of the powers of nature and the planet itself in all its mystery and eternal authority. Just so, in “Pinocchio,” a variation on the story of Jonah and the Whale, it will be modesty and thoughtfulness that will turn the puppet into a properly responsible person. This first group of animated feature “cartoons” from the pen and under the guidance of Walt Disney – with all his, and its, shortcomings – dealt with serious themes that never lose their relevance. After the war, with the moral confusions of the Cold War, during which our allies became our foes and our foes our allies, during which

any criticism of the American dream was taboo, Disney lost that touch of magic, of inst inct that trans c e n d s personality, and I lost interest in his output. He destroyed the marvelous, and heartbreaking, and challenging, themes of Hans Christian Andersen, as well as the insights of Torah tales and Hasidic legends. For the purposes of this report, I would claim and conclude that at his best, Disney exploited the brilliance of Aberson, and of Salten, underpaid them, and virtually erased their names and chapters of their lives – just as Superman was two high school boys’ Jewish dream of an American golem, and its creators had to sue for a pittance of the enormous profits made from their sketches and their hopeful words. Here’s a professor’s toast and salute to the young Jewish people who dreamed their dream, which is our dream: My dream and yours. MIKE FINK (mfink33@aol. com) teaches at Rhode Island School of Design.

36 | September 4, 2015

OBITUARIES | WORLD | OPINION

The Jewish Voice

Passages Rashi Fein, a ‘father of Medicare’

Rashi Fein was instrumental in the development of U.S. health policy, beginning with the Truman administration. He served as a senior staff member in the Kennedy administration’s Council of Economic Advisors. He was considered by many to be one of the fathers of Medicare, according to the Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action.

Ralph Goldman, former chief executive of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee

Ralph Goldman played a role in our freedom, our positive Jewish identity and our dedi-

cation to the neediest among us. He was also instrumental in the State of Israel’s birth, its growth and success, its cultural and educational institutions and its strong social fabric. He was born in Ukraine in 1914, was an early builder of the State of Israel – a brave and deliberate Jewish leader who cracked open communist Europe to revive Jewish life in places where the Soviets strived to eradicate it. He worked to strengthen ancient Jewish communities in places from Morocco to Mumbai. He was the living embodiment of the Talmudic precept that “all Jews are responsible for one another.” He was a

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trusted friend and advisor to Israeli leaders including David BenGurion, Shimon Peres and Teddy Kollek.

Marvin Mandel, Maryland’s only Jewish governor dies at 95

JTA — Marvin Mandel, the only Jewish governor of Maryland died Aug. 30. Mandel, a Democrat who led the East Coast state from 1969 until 1977, died in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. The cause of death was not provided. His gubernatorial record was a mixed one: While Mandel earned kudos for policy victories, a fraud conviction in 1977 for helping facilitate business dealings for friends who owned a racetrack forced him to leave office. Although an appeals court overturned the conviction in 1979, the full U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit reinstated the conviction later that year and Mandel served 19 months in a federal prison, according to the Washington Post. Mandel’s governorship was also known for his messy divorce, involving a $400,000 settlement, from his wife Barbara (known as “Bootsie”), whom he left for his girlfriend in 1973. Mandel later married the girlfriend, Jeanne Dorsey; she died in 2001. Mandel grew up in a lowermiddle-class, Jewish section of Baltimore, the son of a garment cutter and a housewife. During World War II he served in the

FROM PAGE 12 |

Sam Simon, ‘The Simpsons’ co-creator

Sam Simon created “The Simpsons,” one of the most successful shows in television history. Simon only spent four years writing for “The Simpsons” but many of the early

writers credit him with shaping the show’s sensibility. The terms of his exit made him a wealthy man for the rest of his life, and he spent much of his later years focused on giving away his fortune.

Yehuda Avner, speechwriter for four Israeli prime ministers

Yehuda Avner wrote a memoir about his government service called “The Prime Ministers.” As the speechwriter and advisor to Levi Eshkol, Golda Meir, Yitzhak Rabin and Menachem Begin, Avner was present at many of the most historical and private moments of the State of Israel and its leaders.

Bernice Tannenbaum, longtime Hadassah and Zionist leader

Bernice Tannenbaum, former national president of Hadassah, the Woman’s Zionist Organization of America, earned the group’s highest honor for her legacy of contributions.

Elio Toaff, chief rabbi of Rome for 51 years

Elio Toaff served from 19512002 and is considered an important figure in the history of Italy and European Jewry. During WWII, already a rabbi, he fought Nazi fascism with the Italian partisans and witnessed the crimes committed by the Nazis in the Sant’Anna di Stazzema massacre. “We have lost a giant,” said Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.

RABBI

Asked how large the count would be if the hidden Jews were included, she said, “I think it would double, at least.” Aiello said she wanted to be a rabbi from a young age, even in the absence of female rabbis at that time. She thinks the idea first occurred to her as a child seated in the women’s balcony. “As I looked down I was struck by the beauty of the Torah service, especially at the Hakafah, Torah procession,” she said. “Looking down from above it looked as though the Torah was dancing. I thought it was a Torah ballet. Even as a

FROM PAGE 11

U.S. Army in Maryland and in Texas, according to the Post, then earned a law degree before serving in Maryland’s House of Delegates for 17 years. According to the Post, Mandel “never emphasized his Jewish identity,” but attended High Holy Days services and as a state legislator once volunteered to complete a minyan, or prayer quorum, for the memorial service for a colleague’s father. When Mandel first became governor, replacing Vice President-elect Spiro Agnew in a special vote of the state Legislature, JTA described him as “a leader of the Baltimore Jewish community” who “is very active in the Associated Jewish Charities, the Israel Bond campaign, synagogue groups, the Menorah Lodge of B’nai B’rith, and other Jewish organizations.” In a 1972 appearance at the National Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs convention, Mandel said that it is “up to us to work as individuals and as a community to carve out a community identity as Americans, as Jews, as American Jews.”

small child I thought, ‘I want to do that. I want to be the leader of the Torah ballet.’” Aiello became a teacher and a professional puppeteer before beginning rabbinic certification from Rabbinical Seminary International, at age 47, which she completed five years later. After assuming her current rabbinical post, Aiello now finds herself clashing with the power of the Orthodox rabbinate, which the Italian government recognizes and which she thinks the Catholic Church doesn’t want to question. “Italy is a bureaucratic night-

mare on a good day,” she said. Religious and bureaucratic potholes aside, Aiello is optimistic that progressive Judaism can help strengthen Jewish communities. “I really believe that it’s an exciting time to be Jewish,” she said. “When we think that our numbers are dropping – actually, if we were to open the door and extend the hand of Jewish welcome to bnai anusim and to Jews of diverse backgrounds, we would see our numbers grow.”

aside by something beyond my control.” It was that realization, among others, that motivated Cheses to seek change in his congregation. The congregation made physical changes – among other things, it built an accessible ark – but the rabbi also sought to make spiritual changes and help his congregants experience the same aha moment that he had at the retreat. Indeed, it is these spiritual changes – viewing all of God’s people as bringing unique contributions to the world – that

can turn a congregation from a collection of people to a holy community. This time of reflection and renewal provides the perfect moment for such a shift to take place. JAY RUDERMAN is President of the Ruderman Family Foundation, which focuses on the inclusion of people with disabilities in our society. The foundation is holding the 2015 Ruderman Inclusion Summit Nov. 1-2 in Boston. He’s on Twitter @jayruderman.

|OP-ED

this charismatic young man was not defined by his disability. “He asked us to take out a piece of paper and make a list of [perceived] personal shortcomings ... ,” recounted Cheses. “We were then instructed to introduce ourselves to the person next to us in the following way: “Hi, my name is X, and I have such and such. …” “For a moment, I felt what it was like to be identified by my personal limitations … as if my passions and talents were being overshadowed and pushed

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Stanley B. Abrams, 82 CRANSTON, R.I. – Stanley B. Abrams died Sept. 1 at Steere House, Providence. He was the beloved husband of Sandra (Finklestein) Abrams. They were married for 55 years. Born in Providence, a son of the late Frank and Pauline (Wexler) Abrams, he had lived in Providence before moving to Cranston 18 years ago. He was a coowner of What Cheer Foods for 25 years, retiring 16 years ago. Stanley was a Korean conflict Navy veteran, serving on the USS Shasta in the Mediterranean. He was a graduate of Hope High, Class of 1950 and Colby College, Class of 1954. He was a member of Temple Emanu-El in Providence and served on its board. He was also a past president of the Jewish Historical Association, a member of the RI Holocaust Memorial Museum and was a recipient of the “Never Again” award. In addition, he was a part of the Brown Learning Community. Devoted father of Kenneth Abrams and his wife, Dr. Terri Hasseler, of Cranston, Susan A. Simon and her husband, Barry, of Ramsey, N.J., and the late Andrew Charles Abrams. Dear brother of Delores Younger of Manchester, N.H. Loving grandfather of Dylan, Jacob, Joshua, Jared, and Zachary. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Holocaust Education and Resource Center of R.I., 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, R.I. 02906 or the RI Jewish Historical Association, 130 Sessions St., Providence, R.I. 02906 or your favorite charity.

John Bell, 88 BROCKTON, MASS. – John L. Bell, of Brockton, Mass., died Aug. 23 at Good Samaritan Medical Center, Brockton. He was the beloved husband of Carol (Young) Bell. Born in Providence, a son of the late Samuel and Pauline Bell, he had lived in Brockton since 1968. He was an army veteran of the Korean conflict. He was a member of Touro Fraternal Association. Devoted father of Stuart Bell of Brockton. Dear brother of Marilyn Kabalkin of Cranston and the late Nathan Bell. Cherished uncle of several nieces and nephews. Contributions in his memory may be made to your favorite charity.

Rosalie Fain, 92 PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Rosalie Branower Fain died on Aug. 27 after a short illness. She was born in New York City, the youngest child of Charlotte and William Branower. Devoted wife of the late Norman M. Fain, her husband of 56 years. Alumna of Ethical Culture Fieldstone School and the University of North Carolina. Predeceased by her siblings Evelyn Joseph and Gerald Branower.

She is survived by her three ch i ld ren, W e n d y Feldman (Paul) of Needham, M a s s ., J o n a than Fain ( Rut h) of Barrington and Martha Roberts (Maurice) of Barrington. She was blessed with seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was always at the center of solving a problem or helping people in need. She lived a full life filled with family and friends. She was an active member of the community as past president of Planned Parenthood, supporting the R.I. Philharmonic, the Miriam Hospital, Temple-Beth-El, Jewish Family Service, the Rhode Island Zoological Society and the Gamm Theater. Please consider supporting two of her favorite charities, The R.I. Philharmonic and Music School, 667 Waterman Ave., East Providence, R.I. 02914 or Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, 345 Whitney Ave., New Haven, Conn. 06511.

Laurie Fortin, 56 NORTON,

MASS.

– Laurie Joan Ruttenberg Fortin of Norton, formerly of Sharon, died in her home

on Aug. 20. Born in Providence, she graduated from Simmons College with a B.A. in Human Resources and Psychology. She dedi-

cated her life to her family and friends and her work in childhood education. She was the lead teacher at Hertz Preschool at Temple Israel in Sharon for 18 years. Three years ago, she started her own consulting business, The Parenting Sage, in which she guided families who needed help in managing their children’s needs. She was well known throughout the area for the wisdom, creativity and good humor she brought to her profession. She was also talented in interior design, helping many friends and family members decorate their homes in a unique and lovely way. She was the beloved wife of Leon; mother of Hillary and Kayla; sister of Beth, David, and Jennifer; daughter of Bruce and Barbara Flinker Ruttenberg; auntie of Jordan, Alison, Daniel and Andrew. Contributions in her memory can be made to The Children’s Trust, childrenstrustma.org.

Shirley L. Friedman, 83 PALM

BEACH

GARDENS, FLA. – Shirley L. Friedman of P a l m B e a c h Gardens, Fla., formerly of Providence, died Aug. 21. She was the daughter of Benjamin and Etta Bigney. She graduated from Hope High School and immediately joined the business world, working for Davis & Davis and G.H. Walker brokerage firms. After her marriage to Murray Friedman, she joined him in his catalog showroom company,

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SHARON MEMORIAL PARK’S 67th ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE Sunday, September 20, 2015 ~ 10:00 AM At Sharon’s Outdoor

JACOB GROSSMAN MEMORIAL CHAPEL IN THE WOODS Officiating:

Rabbi Joseph Meszler Cantor Becky Khitrik  Temple Sinai in Sharon

OBITUARIES where they created a successful business with more than 250 employees. She enjoyed playing mahjong, bridge, canasta and golf. She was a member of Ledgemont Country Club, Ballen Isles Country Club and Temple BethEl in Providence and Temple Judea in Palm Beach Gardens. She was a life member of Hadassah and a world traveler, with an enormous zest for life. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Murray Friedman; sons, Alan (Carol) Friedman, Brian (Bobbie) Friedman and Gary Friedman; granddaughters Lauren (Richard) Koblick and Allison Friedman and brother Arnold (Marilyn) Bigney. She was predeceased by her brother Paul Bigney. She will be missed by her loving family and friends. Contributions in her name may be made to the American Cancer Society, 621 Clearwater Park Rd., West Palm Beach, Fla. 33401.

Robert Kotlen, 88 CRANSTON, R.I. – Robert A. Kotlen died Aug. 18. He was the beloved husband of Betty (Basok) Kotlen of Cranston. They were married for 35 years. Born in Providence, a son of the late Harry and Pauline (Abrams) Kotlen, he had lived in Cranston for 17 years, previously living in Providence. He was the owner of the former Standard Jewelry in Providence, retiring 30 years ago. Robert was a WWII navy veteran. He was a member of Temple

September 4, 2015 |

Beth-El, a 32nd degree mason and a graduate of Brown University, class of ’49, earning membership in Phi Beta Kappa. Devoted father of Lisa Kotlen of Bristol, Lori Stark (Drew) of Eilat, Israel, Richard Kotlen of Middletown and stepson David Basok (Corinne) of Huntington Beach, Calif. Loving grandfather of six. Cherished greatgrandfather of three. Contributions in his memory may be made to the RI Jewish Historical Association, 130 Sessions St., Providence, R.I. 02906 or your favorite charity.

Eleanor Ruth Treelisky, 85 EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Eleanor Ruth Treelisky, of Providence, died peacefully on Aug. 24. She was born in Providence, d a u g h ter of the late Fred and Mollie Abrams and sister of the late Leonard Abrams. Devoted mother to Carole Bender and her husband Jeff of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Gail Reiter and her husband Ira of Sarasota, Fla., and Peter Botvin and his wife Becky of Houston, Texas. Loving grandmother of Gregory and Jason Bender, Sam and Emily Reiter, Vicky, David and Joanna Botvin; and greatgrandmother of Brooke, Jake, Julia and Alya Bender. Contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

38 | September 4, 2015

COMMUNITY

The Jewish Voice

PHOTOS | SIMON LICHTER

SCENES from the Holocaust Memorial dedication, above, religious leaders gather around the memorial. Above right, the entrance to the memorial. Right, committee chairman Herb Stern speaks to the crowd. Left, a close-up of the thousands of pebbles left during the WaterFire lighting Aug. 29. PHOTO | WATERFIRE PROVIDENCE, JOHN NICKERSON

FROM PAGE 1 |

MEMORIAL

and landscape architect Will Green. Committee chairman Herb Stern led a group of speakers including Rep. James Langevin, Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, Providence City Councilman Samuel Zurier, Alliance CEO Jeffrey Savit, Alliance Chief Program Officer Michelle Cicchitelli, RI State Council of Churches Rev. Dr. Don Anderson, Alliance Board Chair Sharon Gaines, Rabbi Wayne Franklin, Rabbi Barry Dolinger and Rabbi Sarah Mack. Cantor Jodi Blankstein sang. On Aug. 29, the memorial was a featured part of WaterFire. Mentioned in the program and highlighted with some of the programmed music, the pathway to the memorial was lined with 70 candle lanterns. A large basket filled with clear glass pebbles was placed at the entrance. According to Barnaby Evans, executive artistic director, 2,534 people placed a glass pebble on the main stone of the

memorial. This was despite the fact that light was very low and there were no signs or hosts to instruct people as to what to do. “We felt it would be wrong not to welcome the memorial on its first day” at WaterFire,” said Evans. Stern, when interviewed during the later stages of planning the memorial, said he hoped that WaterFire would draw people to the memorial. Plans are in the works for continuing to highlight the memorial at future WaterFire lightings. The pebbles will be available beginning in midafternoon at the next lighting, according to Evans. That lighting is scheduled for Sept. 12 at 7:02 p.m. To learn more about the Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial, go to riholocaustmemorial.org. FRAN OSTENDORF is editor of The Jewish Voice.

WORLD

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September 4, 2015 |

It’s Jew vs. Jew (and rabbi vs. rabbi) in fight over Lithuanian site BY CNAAN LIPHSHIZ VILNIUS, Lithuania (JTA) – It’s one of the most intriguing sites in all of Vilnius: a massive Soviet-style sports complex built in 1971 that since its closure in 2004 has become a run-down haven for vagrants. Now the Lithuanian government has some grand plans to renovate the rotting behemoth and turn it into a gleaming $25 million conference center. Just one thing stands in the way: a few dead Jews. The site along the Neris River in the Snipiskes district is considered one of the most valuable unused tracts of land in Lithuania’s rapidly gentrifying capital city. But it also sits atop the remnants of Vilnius’ oldest Jewish cemetery, Piramont, which houses the remains of countless Jewish luminaries from the city’s past. The legendary 18th-century sage known as the Gaon of Vilna originally was buried there, though his remains were moved in 1949. (The Soviets allowed local Jews to move only seven bodies from Piramont before they destroyed the graveyard.) “Imagine that the Piramont cemetery is the cemetery where the kings, priests, sages of your nation are buried,” said Ruta Bloshtein, a member of the Jewish Community of Vilnius. Building there would be “absolute barbarism.” In a quirk of fate, the Lithuanian government – a frequent target for criticism on Holocaust-related issues – has sought Jewish approval to go ahead with the renovation plan because a $14.5 million subsidy from the European Union may depend on it. Many local Jews oppose the planned construction; Jewish law forbids disturbing human remains. But when a group of rabbis from the London-based Committee for the Preservation of Jewish Cemeteries in Europe was flown in to assess the project, they gave it the thumbs-up in a meeting in April with Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevicius that was given prime-time news coverage. The reasoning of the committee, recognized as an expert body by the European Parliament, was that although the cemetery was located on the site, the proposed renovation would not disturb Jewish remains because remains may not even be present at the precise location of the planned construction. “There is not even a cause for concern about the desecration of a cemetery,” said Rabbi Avraham Ginsberg, the committee’s executive director. “There is absolutely nothing there.” Lithuania’s official Jewish community leadership then followed suit and endorsed the government’s renovation plan for the hulking sports complex. Under the current plan, the area around the building would be preserved as a memorial park with plaques commemorating the prominent people buried there, according to Kukliansky. But some local Jews accuse both their leaders and the London-based rabbinic committee of corruption, charging that their decisions were the result of payoffs. They cite as evidence a 2009 cable sent by a U.S. State Department official and leaked by WikiLeaks that reported that the London-based committee was seeking $100,000 for “rabbinical supervision of digging,” to be obtained by the Lithuanian government from developers. The money was requested for supervision of exploratory digging and beautification of the Piramont compound conducted that year. These locals and foreigners “clearly entered into a conspiracy of traitors to obliterate the memory of the old cemetery of Vilnius, its sanctity, integrity and all its territory,” Rabbi Shmuel Yakov Feffer, a scholar and descendant of the Vilna Gaon, wrote in an open letter he posted in June on Defendinghistory.com. He went on to warn against “local interests and foreign organizations, including a Jewish committee which visits with its people, hurriedly conducting compromises and various tradeoffs.” Dovid Katz, a Vilnius-based scholar of Yiddish who is campaigning against the planned construction, said the committee’s demand for funds “damages their credibility” and that, in any case, “Litvak rabbis should decide, not Londoners.” But Ginsberg said the $100,000 was an estimate of the maximum amount of expenses that his organization would need to spend on the project, and that in the end the committee received only a few thousand dollars from the Lithuanian government. “It was for an onsite supervisor, a ground-penetrating radar survey and travel expenses,” he said. “The opposition interpreted this as a bribe, which is utter nonsense.”

If not for the London committee’s intervention at Piramont, “the whole cemetery would have been leveled,” Ginsberg said. The fight over the Vilnius cemetery is among the more notable disputes surrounding the dilemma over how to deal with the crumbling Jewish graveyards of Eastern Europe. Jewish cemeteries all over the region are threatened – often by neglect, but also by real estate development. In Slovakia, the country’s small Jewish community can afford to care for and monitor only one-fi fth of the country’s 750 cemeteries, which are easy targets for land grabs and abuse by contractors. In Poland, only 7 percent of 1,400 Jewish cemeteries are fenced, inviting garbage dumping and other mischief. In 2012, the Council of Europe adopted a nonbinding resolution placing responsibility for the care of Jewish cemeteries on national governments. The resolution

was based on a report that noted instances of Eastern European cemeteries that have been turned into “residential areas, public gardens, leisure parks, army grounds and storage sites.” As for the Piramont cemetery, Andrew Baker, the director of international affairs for the American Jewish Committee and the man who led negotiations with Lithuania’s government over restitution for Jewish property lost in the Holocaust, said the government’s handling of this particular issue has been praiseworthy. “The diligence and the level of care with which the Lithuanian government is proceeding on this issue is worthy of praise as exemplary,” Baker said, adding that he was “not aware of any conclusive evidence that the proposed project would desecrate or disturb Jewish graves.”

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Fun and games at J-Camp

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As 4 p.m. rolled around on Aug.

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Sunday Monday Monday Monday Monday Tuesday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Sunday Sunday Sunday

September 13 September 14 September 14 September 14 September 14 September 15 September 20 September 22 September 23 September 23 September 23 September 23 September 23 September 23 September 27 October 4 October 4

8:15 PM 10:00 AM 3:00 PM 4:00 PM 4:45 PM 10:30 AM 11:00 AM 8:15 PM 10:00 AM 1:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 5:45 PM 5:45 PM 6:30 PM

Tickets are required. Tickets are no charge for College Students and Military Personnel with proper ID. Temple Beth-El offers Hearing Amplification systems for those to borrow while attending services. Babysitting is available for children ages 3 months to 8 years. *Advance registration is required for each holiday. Please call the temple office to register 401-331-6070. TEMPLE BETH-EL 70 ORCHARD AVE PROVIDENCE, RI 02906 401-331-6070

PHOTOS | JEWISH ALLIANCE

A camp ﬁeld trip.

WWW.TEMPLE-BETH-EL.ORG FACEBOOK.COM/TEMPLEBETHEL

21, J-Camp at the Dwares JCC officially ended. There were tears among the staff and campers as everyone said goodbye to one another as well as saying goodbye to our summer schliach, Nave. A successful summer season had come to a close. The kids were happy and excited to come to camp. We traveled to a number of great places. including the Boston Children’s Museum, the EcoTarium, Douglas State Park and Spring Lake Beach. The Macabbi/ Color War week was a huge success. Campers were very enthusiastic about competing against one another and even created

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September 4, 2015 |

FROM PAGE 40 |

CAMP dunk tank. Even Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island CEO Jeffrey Savit took a turn in the tank for 30 minutes. The other highlight was an opportunity to throw a pie in the face of Shannon Boucher, again a real crowd-pleaser. The staff and kids all came together for an afternoon of fun and memories. This was an extra special camp experience. I grew up attending a JCC camp in upstate New York. However, it was primarily non-Jewish. In Rhode Island, it was such a pleasure being in a camp setting where we learned a new Hebrew word of the day, sang Israeli songs, made fresh challah every Friday and had a strong sense of community. I do not think I would have made it through this fi rst summer as camp director without the support of parents and community and Alliance staff. Here are a few responses from parents when asked how their children enjoyed camp: “On his last day of camp, as he was leaving, Sandy shouted “J-Camp is the best camp ever!” He came home tired and happy every day, and he improved at swimming over the course of the summer. His counselors were fantastic, knew him well and encouraged his participation in all kinds of activities. Communication between Seth

Honor

The ﬁre department visited camp. and the parents was perfect. I knew where to be, when to be there, and what to bring!” Marc “Thank you for another wonderful summer at the JCC. My girls are still talking about the amazing activities they did and the trips they went on and the songs they learned, and the bread they made. You really thought things through and cre-

ated a streamlined experience for both parents and campers. You clearly put in your whole heart and whole soul. Because of the amazing experience Zia and Dylan had, I’ve noticed the girls are more willing to try new experiences, and foods! They really loved it there and you and your staff were so wonderful. Every morning, we

knew the girls would have a great experience and more importantly, come home tired! We are so glad to have been a part of the JCC campers.” Neha “Thanks to you and all the JCC camp staff for a wonderful camp these past two weeks! It was so well organized and clear that every consideration was made to make things fun for

the kids and convenient for the parents. Ben had a great time.” Esther and Robert. SETH FINKLE is the Director of Camp Haverim and Teen Programming Coordinator at the Alliance. For more information, contact him at 401-4214111, ext. 146.

Your life is rooted in Jewish experiences

your Jewish past.

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Friendships were made at camp.

your future.

your legacy can be too.

When you leave a bequest or planned gift, you ensure that the traditions and institutions that mean so much to you today will be there for future generations tomorrow. You leave your children, grandchildren, and the community a precious inheritance and a lasting testimony to your love and values.

For more information on ways to create your Jewish legacy, contact Trine Lustig, Vice President of Philanthropy, at 401.421.4111 ext. 223 or tlustig@jewishallianceri.org.

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SIMCHAS | WE ARE READ

42 | September 4, 2015

The Jewish Voice

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