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2 0 1 3July

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INSIDEThis Issue

"I swear...says the new chair."See report.

page 2

Zangari Brotherspage 4

Tony Petrarcapage 4

Special Section

Honoring Bob Mill

er

pages 5-9

John Rookepage 4

First Row: Nathan Lury, director; Lester Nathan, president, Friendship Lodge; Andrew Liss, vice president, Friendship Lodge; Michael Smith, Milton Bronstein, directors; Jeffrey Padwa, vice president, Harmony Lodge; Barry Schiff, director; Judah Rosen, Association chaplain. Second Row: Max Guarino, inside guard, Friendship Lodge; Adam Halpern, Barry Shaw, directors; Jed Brandes, chairman, Board of Directors; Robert Miller, chairman emeritus, Board of Directors; Steven Waldman, director & Association treasurer; Richard Cohen, secretary, Friendship Lodge; Rodney Locke, director; Alan Lury, vice chairman, Board of Directors. Third Row: Ried Redlich, director; Andrew Shuster, secretary, Harmony Lodge; Manochehr Norparvar, treasurer, Harmony Lodge; Steven White, Stevan Labush, Jeffrey Davis, Bruce Weisman, directors; Marc Gertsacov, Association secretary; Norman Dinerman, director & president, Harmony Lodge; Andrew Lamchick, director. Not Shown: Arthur Poulten, chairman emeritus, Board of Directors; Michael Levin, treasurer, Friendship Lodge; Max Dinerman, inside guard, Harmony Lodge.

Touros long-time chairman of the board Robert D. Miller has retired and has been replaced by Jed R. Brandes. Miller, who served as chairman for the past 12 years, announced his retirement at the boards annual organizational meeting held in June at Touro Hall. The Warwick resident assumes the title of Chairman Emeritus with full lifetime voting powers on the board. The board then elected Brandes, of Cranston, as chairman and Alan Lury of Sharon Mass., as vice chairman and reelected Steven Waldman, of North Providence, treasurer; Marc Gertsacov,

of Cranston, secretary, and Judah Rosen, of Cranston, chaplain (See photos page 11). Prior to his election, Brandes served as chairman

of Touros Student Financial Aid and Communicat ions committees. Lury also serves as chairman of Touros Investment committee and was Student Financia l Aid Committee chairman. Both men are long-time members of Touros board of directors and are past presidents of the association. At our associations annual

meeting, held in May, the newly elected offi cers and board members were installed. Please see the related article, in this issue, on page 10.

New Touro Leadership By Arthur Poulten

Directors & Offi cers 2013-2014

Bob Miller and Jed Brandes

Installation of Offi cers & Board Members 2013/14 page 10

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Social Scene Summer 2013

By Andrew Liss, Vice President, Harmony Lodge

Chairman's ChatterBy Jed Brandes, Chairman of the Board

Hello Brothers, I cannot believe how fast the year has gone by. We have had some changes in our leadership. One thing that does not change is our desire to see you at our Social Committee meetings. Your input can help us create new and exciting events. Every fi rst Wednesday of the month, you will fi nd a group of brothers coming up with fun and unique events for everyone in our fraternity. Here is what we have coming up in the next few months:

Saturday August 24 6:00 pmNEWPORT PLAYHOUSES THE LOVE LISTNewport, RI

Sunday September 29 9:30 amFRIENDSHIP LODGE DAIRY BRUNCH MEETINGfeaturing Chef Walter PotenzaTouro Hall, Cranston, RI

Wednesday October 23 6:30 pmTOURO OLD TIMERS NIGHT with Turkey DinnerTouro Hall, Cranston, RI

Wednesday November 20 6:30 pmHARMONY LODGE MEETING with Deli DinnerTouro Hall, Cranston, RI

Sunday November 24 1:00 pmTOUROS ANNUAL HANUKKAH PARTYTouro Hall, Cranston, RI

My brothers, as usual, please bring with you a KOSHER, non-perishable food item for the Louis and Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry.

Until the next meeting, have a great summer Brothers!

As I sit here at the computer, I am now Touros Chairman for a full ten days. For sure, the euphoria of winning the election has long since worn off. In fact, I did not sleep the whole night after the Board elected

me. I tossed and turned, my mind trying to wrap itself around the enormity of the task at hand. Gratefully, that angst wore off quickly, as well, and I jumped feet fi rst into my new position. The work is intensive, but fulfi lling. I remember several years ago, as I was preparing to step down as Friendship Lodge President, Chairman Miller took me aside and admonished me: The successful captain leaves as small a wake as possible for those who follow. He wanted to be certain that the incoming president would be able to take the ball and run with it. There should be no disruption to the affairs of the lodge. Now, as I survey the state of Touro, I am especially appreciative of Bobs stewardship. As I said before, the work is intensive, but fulfi lling. It is a testament to his care that it can be fulfi lling, rather than a burden. Touros portfolio is at an all time high. No small feat considering the volatility that the markets have seen over the last fi ve years. And, the income generated by the portfolio is substantial and fully capable of supporting the budget of the association. We will continue to have a full slate of social events, provide member benefi ts and underwrite charitable initiatives in the community. Additionally, the Investment Committee has already established a fund to provide for Touros Centennial celebration, which is now fi ve short years away. Speaking of the social events, this is an area that is receiving a great deal of attention. The Social Committee, which is open to all members, is burgeoning. In fact, we are running out of space in the board room! It is an active and engaged committee, which is starting to develop new events that will draw our members and make membership all the more attractive to newcomers. We will also honor our long-time members at an Old Timers Night in the fall. And, be on the lookout for our new initiative: Bagelpon. Patterned after Groupon, it will offer our members discounted opportunities to get together socially, in a less structured format than our regularly scheduled events. We hope to roll this out in the near future. Our efforts in the community have also been a great success. We continue to make signifi cant charitable donations throughout the community. We collect the fl ip tops from our cans to help fund the Ronald McDonald House cause. And recently, we honored our brother, Harmony Lodge Vice President Jeff Padwa, with a donation in his name to Ronald McDonald House. It was his charity of choice as he ran the Comrades Ultra-Marathon in South Africa. We now have an established record working in the community. By now, Touro brothers have made several trips to Ronald McDonald House to cook for the families of ill children. In short, Touro continues to run like a well-oiled machine. To be sure, Bob has left a very small wake in which I follow. I offer him my sincerest thanks. He has been a great friend and mentor. And if I fi nd the post of chairman fulfi lling, it is due, in no small part, to his efforts to prepare me for the task at hand. I would also like to thank all the board members and lodge offi cers for their continuing efforts, which have not only been met with great success, but eased our transition to new leadership. For my part, I am dedicated to the continued growth of Touro, its service to the community and its ability to provide for the needs of our members. I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks for your camaraderie and support. With Harmony, Friendship and Benevolence.

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Presidents Letter: Bob Miller's Lasting ImpressionsBy Lester Nathan & Norman Dinerman, Friendship and Harmony Lodge Presidents

To describe Bob Miller and what he has meant to Touro, youll need a lot of descriptors. Weve known him for quite a while, but dont claim to know everything about him. A full biography will be necessary for the complete story. We do know that Bob plays many roles beyond Chairman of the Board during the week. Hes a husband, father, businessman and investor, plus a member of several other organizations. Weve observed a very busy guy who has given a lot of his time to lead and manage Touro. Hes served many roles in our Association during the past 25 years, and gathered a detailed and extensive knowledge about it. Both of us agree that the Board meetings were never dull when Bob chaired them. There were many impassioned speeches along the way and Bob could be quite assertive when he wanted to be. He helped many directors and lodge offi cers in their professional and personal growth. Bob has always cared deeply about Touros core values and ensured that our business matters are kept private. He implemented good, professional business practices during his twelve years as chairman. Weve seen improvements made to our information technology and offi ce operations during those years, such as the website, the projection television system, upgrades in computers and the registration for a trademark of our logos. Youre probably aware that our investment portfolio grew nicely during the last twelve years. But just as important, was

acquiring our own building. Bob was instrumental in the Touro Hall purchase back in 1989. Ever since, he cared about the buildings condition and helped oversee many improvements while serving as vice chairman and chairman. Whenever he recounts the story behind that purchase, he speaks with a lot

of passion. Finally, in the spirit of Touro, Bob has been a good friend to many of us. He knows most of the members and shows concern for their welfare. If we had a question or problem, we could bring it to his attention and hed help us out. He has been worthy of our trust and we wish him all the best.

As we mark the beginning of our fourth year as lodge offi cers, we are thankful for how well things have gone. Before 2010, we barely knew each other. Things quickly evolved into a complementary relationship where

Normans role is the idea guy and Lesters is the analyst. Our personalities bring out the best in each other. Frequent communications, sharing of ideas and hard work have helped us plan and run many social events successfully. Weve learned a lot about Touro and each other over the years; and the most important lesson is one that most politicians already know: get a consensus beforehand if you plan to propose a new idea at a meeting. We are always looking for new ideas and open to your thoughts and comments, so dont be afraid to step forward. Your voice is invaluable. We look forward to seeing you at the next social meeting or event.

Norman Dinerman & Lester Nathan

First Place team: Myriam and Mark Brandes, Carolyn and Jed Brandes, Steve Waldman, Mark Lake, Irwin Brandes

Third Place Team: Ethan Golditch, Ed Spater, Jason Golditch (Background), Ellen Nessen, TJ Feldman-Halpern, Pam and Barry Schiff, Jeffrey Golditch, Muriel Golditch

Second Place Team: Ben Schiff, Daniel Brandes, Joshua Brandes

Question: What was Family Game Night?

On Saturday, April 27, the evening began with all of the families socializing and having some appetizers. Then competition began, as Stevan Labush and Max Dinerman hosted Touro's own "Jeopardy-style" game. The game was set up on a computer and each team tried to guess the right question. It was a heated battle at times and it came down to the fi nal question to see who was going home with the prize money. First prize went to the Brandes, Waldman and Lake Team, second prize was awarded to the young Brandes and Schiff team and third prize was awarded to the Golditch, Spater, Nessen, Feldman-Halpern and Schiff team.

Answer: An Evening Filled with a Bunch of Appetizers, Questions and Fun...

by Stevan Labush

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On Wednesday evening April 24th, Touro hosted

its Annual Open House. The 11 new potential Brothers in attendance were given a short

presentation on the inner workings and benefi ts of our association by our board committee chairs. Nine new brothers signed up that night. The program was followed by a feast of Kosher Baked Chicken.

Our featured speaker was John Rooke, an award-winning broadcaster, and an inductee into the 2011 class

of the Rhode Island Radio Hall of Fame. John recounted his early years in Rhode Island TV and radio which led to his 24 years as play-by-play voice for Providence College Basketball and 20 years as stadium voice for the New England Patriots and New England Revolution. John fi elded questions from our brothers ranging from the recent Patriots' loss of Wes Welker to the Denver Broncos and the restructuring of the Big East Conference. It had been 18 years since John had last been at Touro Hall and everyone agreed that he made a triumphant return!

Touro welcomes new brother

Richard Rossi, II at the March 20, 2013

lodge meeting

On February 20th, Friendship Lodge hosted the monthly lodge meeting at Chelos Hometown Bar & Grill. The evenings special guests were John and Paul Zangari, hosts of the long-running radio program Drive Thru Radio, which has aired on stations WEAN and WPRO. The two engag ing brothers opened the program by explaining their early interest in automobiles. From their ear ly days , they enjoyed working on mechanical contraptions. First it was bicycles, then cars. They fondly recalled spending their childhoods in auto shops, body shops and junk yards. Pa u l e v e n t u a l l y w e n t i n t o communications and spent the 1970s and 80s at WEAN, but he couldnt keep himself away from cars. During the same period, Brother John was an auto mechanic and teacher at Davies Vocational. When WEAN folded in 1985, Paul wound up writing technical materials for Fram, the auto parts manufacturer, thanks to a connection he had in its marketing department. Having fi lled us in on their background, Paul and John segued into todays cars. To paraphrase, the truth is they dont break down very often, but even when they do,

A Night Out with the Zangari BrothersBy Lester Nathan

Touros Annual Open HouseBy Barry Jay Schiff

Have you ever had Beef Bourguignon over Egg Noodles a la Andy Liss? If not, you missed out on a fi ne gourmet meal at the March 20th meeting. Actually the well-known name to people like me is Beef Burgundy. Originally it was a peasant dish that has been slowly refi ned to haute cuisine. The speaker for the night was Channel 12 Chief Meteorologist Tony Petrarca. He is one of the lucky ones who knew what he wanted to do at an early age. Tracking the weather was his favorite pastime. Tony is a local boy who graduated from Tollgate High. The next part of the journey was Lyndon State College in Lyndonville, Vt. where he received a B.S. in Meteorology. As fate would have it, there was a job opportunity in RI. He started in March of 1987 and has been at Channel 12 for 25 years. Among the awards Tony has earned include the AMS Broadcast Seal of Approval, the Silver Circle award from the National Academy of TV Arts and Sciences, and 7 time most accurate Meteorologist from RI Monthly magazine. Tony regaled us with some of his experiences and then took some questions. The last question was, Do you know if the temperature on July 4th will be over 98 degrees? By the time you are reading this article, we should know if it was 98 degrees and if anyone got free furniture.

Tony PetrarcaBy Howard Wasser

l-r: Norm Dinerman, Channel 12 Chief Meteorologist Tony Petrarca, and Barry Schiff

John Rooke

the average motorist doesnt know how to fi x them.

Drive Thru Radio Every week, or so, the brothers get a new car to evaluate, which gives them a lot of fun. They belong to the Automotive Press

Association, so they get to test about 75 new vehicles each year and then vote awards for the best ones. One of the most expensive cars they drove, a BMW worth $102K, came with bullet-proof glass. T h e y e n d e d t h e i r presentation with a story about Carol Shelby, the racer and designer of the Cobra. The

Ford GT40 (GT for Grand Touring), which he helped design, won several years in a row at Le Mans.

Audience QuestionsThe fi rst two questions dealt with Audis 5000 and why Ford is doing so well. The next one inquired about the future of hybrid cars. Only a couple of cars are using it as a performance enhancer. John thought hybrids will be here for a while, but will eventually be replaced by something else. [Actually, the fi rst hybrids were built in the 1910s.] When asked about fuel mileage in the next ten years, they replied that it might reach 50 miles/gal. We will wait and see whether that prediction comes true.

Paul & John Zangari

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By Howard WasserHONORINGBOB MILLER: THE VOICE OF AUTHORITY

Almost since the time I joined Touro I have witnessed the Voice of Touro in two members. The fi rst would be Judah Rosen who has been the longtime chaplain. To many who have heard him recite the prayers, he has been referred to as Touros Voice of God. The other Voice of Touro would be Bob Miller. More than once, at an Open House, we would hear from a lodge president and then the committee chairmen before Bob would get up and welcome t h e p r o s p e c t i v e new members . I have heard many prospec t ive new members say, This must be the guy who runs the show. It is not because he introduced himself as the Chairman of the Board but because he is the Voice of Authority. Bob was brought up in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. For you sports fans out there this is the home of Tampa Bay Rays' manager Joe Maddon. Sports did not defi ne Bob though. He says he was a motor head. One of the defi ning aspects of his childhood was that there were no Jewish funeral homes in Hazleton. Bob, after his Bar Mitzvah, participated with the Chevrah Kadisha in preparing the deceased for burial. This interest led him to Syracuse, New York where he attended Simmons School of Mortuary Science where he received his degree. He moved to RI in 1977 for a job in the funeral business. The funeral parlor (does anyone say funeral parlor anymore?) was the well-known one in Providence at the time.He worked in the business for 7 years and decided it was time for a change. He attended the University of Michigan for programs in executive leadership. This led him to where he is now. Bob had a long career with the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). He started selling their memberships door to door and rose to a senior sales manager nationally over that time. He has also owned several franchise businesses. He said he has been in front of as many as 2500 managers at a conference. I read an article by a gentleman who was an employee for over 15

years. He wanted to be in his own business, but he could not overcome the fear. He met Bob who told him that FEAR stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. The gentleman started a franchise with coaching from Bob and has become hugely successful. In fact this company, CMIT Solutions of Rhode Island, is where Bob is currently engaged as its Executive Vice President. As busy as Bob was, he still had time for a family. His wife, Debra, has been his bride for 30 years. She is a teacher as is their daughter, Marissa. There was also time for a son, Marc. Marc is a senior tax consultant with a well known

accounting fi rm in San Francisco. The Touro career of Robert D. Miller began in September 1978. He was looking for Jewish camaraderie in his new home and found a sponsor in Ben Rabinowitz. For the first year or so Bob was not too involved but this changed with a vengeance the next year. His fi rst job was as the Faithful Guide. He had a variety of jobs in the following years. In 1989 he was named the chairman of the New Home Committee. Bob was very instrumental in ending the nomadic existence of Touro Fraternal Association. Before Touro moved into their own building in Cranston they had meetings and dinners in a variety of places. The newer members take the new home for granted but the older members see the new home as a mechayeh. In 1991, Bob began a 10 year term as vice chairman of the board. He was biding his time while Art Poulten was the chairman. Then in 2001, the time had come for Bob to be chairman. There have been a number of signifi cant accomplishments during Bobs tenure. The Student Financial Aid Program has become a very important benefi t at Touro. Cemetery land has been expanded. The offi ce has been restructured. There was a time Bob did most of the cooking. Recently, he has cut back but still cooks

his famous meatloaf and the Touro signature Steak Fry. The time has come for Bob to step down as chairman but if you think he will fade into the sunset, think again. One of the benefi ts of being a chairman for 10 consecutive years or more is that you are a permanent voting member of the board of directors. He will continue to appreciate the best benefi t of being a member of Touro. It does not matter who you are, what you do or where you come from, you will always be welcome.

1997

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What an education it has been sitting at your left hand these 12 years. Watching the veins in your neck get red, listening as you berated certain brothers, me included. To say the very least Bob, it was an interesting ride that made Wednesday evenings really TOURO NIGHT. Bob tells you he never missed a board meeting but he fails to tell you is that its because I called to remind him every Wednesday afternoon. Bob, no bull s--t, after all is over and done remember the round of applause you received (were they because you declined another nomination for another year?) Bob, remember, we still love you, and most of all respect you..~ Nate Lury P.S. I still need a ride on Wednesday night.

After years of sitting at the opposite end of the board table, I have seen many different views, actions and reactions of Bob. Sometimes very pleasant and sometimes very stern. All with good intent (at least in his mind). With a look from me to him, he gets what's going on. Our banter back and forth is all part of the camaraderie we have enjoyed for the past 12 years. And, NO, he's not getting my seat. ~ Michael Smith

Bob Miller exemplifi es what Brotherhood should be. He is not just a friend and fraternal brother, but also the older brother I never had. He has a passion to help me, and others, thru his knowledge of our association and life too. Bob does love to rib others, and is more than happy to point out where you messed up. I think he does this not as a bully, but to teach you, similar to how my chef instructors taught me how to cook and run a kitchen and its brigade. I know we as brothers are in good hands, with our new chairman, and vice chairman, but it is not going to be the same, not to me. We are headed for Touro Fraternals Centennial in a few years. Bob, you may not be at the helm any more, but I am damned sure you will continue to steer us in the right direction, with your subtle (insert cough here) ways and direction. I tip my hat to you Bob, and thankful for what you have done to make Touro Fraternal what it is today. ~ Andrew Liss

Everyone knows that Bob Miller was a great navigator of Touro over his twelve years, but I want to talk about one special night when he showed some other skills. Back before he hauled his motorcycle up to Maine every summer, he used to bring his 23-foot boat. Those were also the days where you could take your boat up the Providence River, right through Waterfi re. One night a group of Touro Brothers took to the Providence River with the Chairman for a night of merriment. We were having some liquid refreshments, and munching on pistachios when the air started to get a little foggy. In fact, so foggy that we had a hard time seeing where we were going. While the passengers were munching away and having a good time,

Bob got a bit concerned when the alarm was going off (while at a good clip) telling us that we were in dangerously shallow water. Bob stayed focused and navigated through the dangerous conditions without fl inching. Very similar to the way he handled the controls of Touro Fraternal Association for the last twelve years. Bob is truly a man of many talents. ~ Andy Lamchick

The funniest thing I remember was the faces of Touro members at a meeting when Bob made rows of members get up and change rows. First time ever that this happened and everyone was surprised. ~ Barry Shaw

HONORINGBOB MILLER: FROM THE BOARD & OFFICERSWhat has impressed me about Bob is his level of commitment to Touro Fraternal Association, especially the search process for the next chairman. This rigorous and lengthy search ensured we elected capable leadership and will become an important part of your legacy. Thank you Bob for all of your time, energy, and talent you have volunteered to making Touro so successful. ~ Rick Cohen

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A well respected and strong leader for our Association during his tenure and on a personal note, a great mentor to me... also I learned everything that I ever wanted to know and more on how to properly cook steaks on a grill (just the right amount of charcoal, fl uid and of course the proper patio bricks beneath the charcoal) and how to properly wrap the steaks with tinfoil when they come off the grill. ~ Alan Lury

About fi ve or six years ago, I asked Chairman Miller to meet me for breakfast. That morning, we discussed a number of issues relating to the board. Inevitably, the subject turned to the future of Touro, and then, to my involvement. Prodding, Bob asked me my intentions. Did I see myself in a leadership role? To that point, I had not given it any consideration. In fact, my fi rst thought when he asked was something my dad once told me: You never want to be president. I related this to Bob and told him that I could see myself as vice chairman one day. Coolly, Bob replied: I cannot support someone for vice chairman who does not aspire to be chairman. Classic Bob. He knew what he wanted and he knew just the right button to push in order to get the desired result. What else could I say? The only reasonable reply was the one I gave: Okay. Ill be chairman. It was easy to say. After all, it was clear that Bob had a lot more to give as chairman, so any pronouncements about the future were little more than speculation. But Bob was testing me. I think he saw potential in me and needed to know whether it was worth the effort to help me prepare. I guess I passed the test. Since that day, Bob never hesitated to delegate assignments to me. Some of the tasks were small, short-term projects like heading up the nominations committees. Others were much more signifi cant, such as chairing the Student Financial Aid Committee. But all were important experiences for someone who had designs on the chairmanship. ~ Jed Brandes

Bob has always been a good kidder and bluffer. Hes probably always had this talent; in my opinion, hed make a great poker player or contract bargainer. More often than not, I would believe him when he was joking around. I usually found him difficult to figure out, because his voice intonation and body language did not give anything away. What was most memorable was when I would question whether he was kidding, when he was being serious. That would really rock his boat! ~ Lester Nathan

Some people think that Bob Miller is a complicated person and that with Bob, life is like a box of chocolates and that you never know what youre going to get. In reality, that couldnt be further from the truth. Bob is really rather consistent. The confusion comes from the fact that there are two Bob Millers. The Touro Bob always seeks to challenge people to do more for the organization that he has always challenged himself to do more for. Along the way, he is never averse to ruffl ing a few feathers. If you respond to the challenge, you earn his respect but the challenges dont stop. If you dont respond to the challenge he pushes even harder. For over 35 years Bob has given his all to Touro and has taken his commitment and responsibilities very seriously and he has never asked, or expected, anyone to do anything that he wouldnt do himself. He is always ready to get his hands dirty on behalf of Touro. Whether in the kitchen, on the grill or in the board room, his enthusiasm knows no limits. Bob recognizes that every person brings something different to the table and as long as their ambitions were for the good and the growth of Touro, everyones contributions are appreciated. When it comes to Touro, Bob works hard and plays hard and has never done anything for personal gain but has done it all for Touro. His motivation is never in question. The Touro Bob is very consistent. The other Bob, the Friend Bob is found outside of the walls of Touro. This Bob is the kind of friend that we all like to have. He is both loyal, compassionate and always willing to lend a hand whether you need moral support, a helping hand, a defender or good advice, Bob is always there. The "Friend Bob is very consistent. Bob is a person I am always proud to call a brother and a friend. ~ Peter Hodosh

I have known Bob Miller for over 30 years and though he has had many passions during that time, other than his family, his Number One passion has been Touro. Over the years we had several conversations about Touro. They always ended with Bob asking me to join and me declining because I had other things I was involved in. When I was fi nally ready to join, Bob sponsored me and then got me involved as a lodge offi cer. Being active in Touro since I joined in 2002, I have had the opportunity to watch Bob in action as Chairman of the Board. I can honestly say that Touro has been very fortunate to have had Bob provide both guidance and leadership during his time as Chairman. I also want to say thank you Bob, for getting me involved in such a fi ne organization. ~ Steven Waldman

Bob is one of the most dedicated Touro brothers that we have in our organization. He was not only the Chairman of the Board of Directors but has been instrumental in the drive and function of almost every committee that makes Touro run. I have no idea where he gets his koyekh, he attends most of the committee meetings that occur each week. He cooks several meals each year to the adulation of all those in attendance. I applaud Bobs numerous achievements and look forward to his continuing leadership at the next level, Chairman Emeritus. Well done Bob. ~ Ried Redlich

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HONORINGBOB MILLER: GRILL MEISTER

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It seems like only yesterday that I was initiated into our brotherhood, Touro Fraternal Association. The year was 1978. There I stood, not knowing what to expect. A young Jewish man, just less than a year in Rhode Island trying to make his way into the community. Looking to put down roots and fi nd a way to make it in this world.

In those days Touro was homeless. We had buildings to call home in the past, but at this time, just a small offi ce space on Reservoir Avenue in Cranston. Enough room for a couple of desks, a conference table, a couple of card tables and a space for a collation. My initiation was at Eileen Darlings in Seekonk September 27, 1978. Our monthly meetings in those

days were always out, in places some of which are still there or some that no longer exist Vasa Hall... Legion Hall... Knights of Columbus Archies Tavern. Monthly board meetings were also held at outside venues like Camilles Roman Garden, Old Canteen, and Golden Lantern. Those were the days. Here I was, new to the area, recently transplanted to start my career. I jumped right in at Touro and immediately became Faithful Guide and never looked back. I sat in all the offi cers chairs. I became president in 1982 and completed my term in 1985. Fast forward to today and that makes 10 terms (3 years each) as a board member of Touro. I have seen a lot in the last thirty fi ve years here at Touro. Brothers have come and gone. Some were more active than others. Those who get along so well and those who just seem to always want to be confrontational. YES! We need them both to have what we have today at Touro. I must say in the early days of my time, the arguments were more robust. Sometimes it was downright scary thinking that a brawl might even breakout. However, when all was said and done, you would fi nd everyone sitting around having a coffee and sampling a treat from Rainbow Bakery. (Still doing that this very day). Then we leave for home united as brothers, joined by the principles of HARMONY, FRIENDSHIP and BENEVOLENCE. I was privileged to fi nd Touro. I was even more privileged to be accepted and allowed to take an active part in the leadership of this fi ne organization. I can even take pride in the accomplishments that I am able to claim responsibility for in some way.

The following is a short list of some of the items I remember having shared the responsibility for:

Operation Moses Friday Night Shabbat Services at the Jewish Home for the Aged Appointed to chair New Home Committee purchased current building in 1989 Directed the complete renovation of our home Established monthly meetings with kosher meals served at no cost to membership Instituted the Student Grant Program while chairing the Student Financial Aid committee Oversaw restructuring of our offi ce and procedures after the loss of our longtime administrator Implemented rollout of new service awards for members Successfully achieved the registration and trademark of our name and logo Participated in numerous community involvement projects

The list is long and I had plenty of help along the way. So now I fi nd myself gracefully stepping aside. Twelve years as chairman is a long time. I am not going away, rather, just stepping aside to let someone else take the reins and move us into the future. In order to accomplish this I started a process some eight

months ago to identify those who had an interest in taking the leadership roles. We had a good showing, so we made it like an interview process, similar to hiring the CEO of a corporation. I must say the process was thorough, engaging and has led us to select the very best candidates from our board to do the job. In closing. I have had a great ride here at Touro. I have been fortunate to have many brothers willing to step up to the plate and help to get the job done. If not for them, I would have never been

able to stay as long or have gotten as much done! I thank each and every one who helped me reach this time. I also wish to thank each and every member who has attended a meeting or a social function. If not for you we would not have the organization we have today. In the spirit of Harmony, Friendship and Benevolence thank you for the opportunity to serve our brotherhood!Best Regards,Bob

HONORINGBOB MILLER: MILLER on MILLER

Bob Miller receives a well-deserved hug from Judah Rosen

Bob Miller with his son Marc

~ 10 ~

A large contingent of brothers was in attendance as the lodge offi cers and Association board members took their oaths of offi ce at the hall on May 22nd. The evening kicked off with the customary dinner featuring chicken soup, knishes, salad, brisket and dessert. The food was plentiful and many were ready for naps, when all was said and done. But there was serious business to be conducted. Chairman Miller called the crowd to order and the business meeting breezed by featuring rapid fi re reports from the committee chairmen. At this point the gavel was handed over to Vice Chairman Barry Schiff who was serving as the evenings Installing Offi cer. Board members Stevan Labush, Ried Redlich, Barry Shaw, Steven Waldman and Steven White all took their oaths for new three year terms from Master of Ceremonies Marc Gertsacov. Brother Norman Dinerman also took his oath for a fi rst term on the board. Along the way Brother Schiff summarized each brothers achievements as offi cers and board members, and passed along the memberships best wishes for continued success. The treasurers, secretaries and vice presidents of both lodges were installed next. For Harmony Lodge, Andrew Shuster is returning as secretary and Manochehr Norparvar will serve another year as treasurer. Jeffrey Padwa was unable to attend, and took his oath of offi ce for another term as vice president at the June board meeting. Andrew Liss, Richard Cohen and Michael Levin began their second terms as Friendship Lodges vice president, secretary and treasurer, respectively. Brother Schiff honored them all accordingly.

Lodge Offi cers and Board Members are Installed Amidst Great Fanfare

By Jed R. Brandes

Friendship Lodge Offi cers (l-r):Manochehr Norparvar, treasurer and

Andrew Shuster, secretary

Harmony Lodge Offi cers (l-r): Michael Levin, treasurer; Richard Cohen, secretary; and Andrew Liss, vice president

Harmony Lodge President Norman Dinerman

Friendship Lodge PresidentLester Nathan

Friendship Lodge Vice PresidentJeffrey Padwa was sworn in

at the June 12th board meeting

Board of Directors elected for a 3-year term (l-r): Steven White, Steven Waldman and Barry Shaw

~ 11 ~

Finally, Brothers Norman Dinerman and Lester Nathan took their oaths for new terms as the presidents of Harmony and Friendship Lodges. After receiving their jewels of offi ce, both addressed the crowd, providing thanks for the opportunity to serve and offering their visions for a successful year to come. Having administered all the oaths, Brother Gertsacov declared once, twice and thrice that the offi cers and board members had been duly elected and properly installed. The gavel was passed back to Chairman Miller for the conclusion of the business meeting. During Good and Welfare, he took the opportunity to address the brothers with some personal refl ections. Brother Miller noted that this meeting would be the last association meeting that he would conduct as chairman, concluding 12 years at the helm of the association. He offered his thanks to all the brothers who have worked as offi cers and board members during his tenure and, likewise, all the other brothers who provided valuable input during that time. Lastly, he wished great success to the brother who would succeed him (see related article page 1) and continued good fortune to the entire association. Brother Miller was feted with a long, sustained, thunderous round of applause at the conclusion of his remarks. Brother Dinerman, who will serve the next year as lodge president and board member, received a down payment for his work when his raffl e ticket came up the winner. With all business concluded, everyone left satisfi ed by a great meal and the knowledge that our association is in good hands for another year!

Association Treasurer Steven Waldman

New Chairman of the Board Jed Brandes with Vice Chairman Alan Lury

Board of Directors elected for a 3-year term (l-r):Stevan Labush, Ried Redlich, and Norman Dinerman

New Leadershipcontinued from page 1

Association SecretaryMarc Gertsacov

~ 11 ~

Association Chaplain Judah Rosen

~ 12 ~H A R M O N Y F R I E N D S H I P B E N E V O L E N C E

HARMONY LODGENorman Dinerman, PresidentJeffrey Padwa, Vice PresidentAndrew Shuster, Secretary

Manochehr Norparvar, TreasurerMax Dinerman, Inside Guard

FRIENDSHIP LODGELester Nathan, President

Andrew Liss, Vice PresidentRichard Cohen, SecretaryMichael Levin, Treasurer

Max Guarino, Inside Guard

Bruce Weisman, Editor

Columnists: Jed Brandes Howard Custis Norman Dinerman Andrew Lamchick Lester Nathan Arthur Poulten Barry Jay Schiff Howard WasserStaff Photographers: Jeffrey Davis Edward Deluty

Touro Fraternal Association45 Rolfe Square, P.O. Box 3562, Cranston, RI 02910Phone: 401-785-0066Fax: 401-941-8781E-Mail: info@tourofraternal.org

Jed Brandes, ChairmanAlan Lury, Vice ChairmanSteven Waldman, TreasurerMarc Gertsacov, SecretaryJudah Rosen, Chaplain

Barry Shaw, Inside GuardRobert Miller, Chairman Emeritus

Arthur Poulten, Chairman Emeritus

TOURO BOARD OF DIRECTORS2013-2014

Visit Touro at www.tourofraternal.orgor scan the QR code.

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PAIDProvidence, RI

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2 0 1 3 JULY 5 7 7 3

Jed BrandesMilton BronsteinJeffrey DavisEdward DelutyNorman DinermanAdam HalpernStevan LabushAndrew LamchickRodney LockeAlan Lury

Nathan LuryRobert MillerArthur PoultenRied Redlich Barry SchiffBarry ShawMichael SmithSteven Waldman Bruce WeismanSteven White

NEWPORT PLAYHOUSEAugust 24, 2013

Ried Redlich, Faithful Guide

FRIENDSHIP LODGESUNDAY BRUNCHSeptember 29, 2013

P.O. BOX 3562CRANSTON, RI 02910

Return Service Requested

Join Friendship LodgeWednesday 6:30 pm

October 23, 2013for Touros

Old Timers Night

honoring members who have attained 25+ years of membership.

A full course Turkey Dinner will be served.

For more info watch your mail or visit:www.tourofraternal.org