Disciplines

Jewish Studies

Abstract

BP was born in 1937 in Pelham Parkway, and moved to the Parkchester housing development in 1941, where he grew up. He recalls the convenient amenities such as nearby shopping and playgrounds, but notes the occasional shortages and power outages connected to World War II. He also shares his experiences with antisemitism, citing the 4.7% quota on Jewish tenants and taunts from children while coming home from school.

BP led a busy, studious childhood at JHS 98 and the Bronx High School of Science, from which he graduated in 1954. He continued his education at New York University’s University Heights College until 1958, and then attended the University of Buffalo School of Medicine, interning at Meadowbrook Hospital on Long Island and subsequently serving two years in the US Air Force as a flight surgeon. Upon return, he settled on Long Island where he completed his residency and began practicing obstetrics and gynecology, which he did for 50 years.

Growing up, BP’s family was religiously observant. They occasionally attended services at Temple Emanuel, especially on holidays. He had his bar mitzvah there in 1950. BP’s mother moved to the US from Ukraine in her youth, and worked at Metropolitan Life Insurance as an adult. His father was born and raised in Manhattan and the Bronx.

BP reflects on his experiences with antisemitism throughout his life, beginning in elementary school, continuing into the Air Force, and even in medical school. He notes that antisemitism was less prevalent after World War II, but has now become prevalent once more.

He raised his children Jewish on Long Island, in Woodbury, New York. BP is now a grandfather to his son’s three Jewish teenagers living in Manhattan.

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