NORTH BETHESDA, Md. (May 7, 2026) – Residents of Ring House, an independent living residence at Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC), are honoring Jewish American Heritage Month with a series of tribute events recognizing Jewish leaders who have made lasting contributions to the Greater Washington region. The resident-run initiative, now in its second year, reflects the vibrant cultural identity and civic spirit that define life at Ring House.

Three events are planned throughout May, all held in the Evelyn Auerbach Social Hall at Ring House on the CESLC campus: 

Thursday, May 14 from 12:45 – 2:30 p.m. | Tribute to Charles E. Smith

  • The most expansive program of the series will honor the late Charles E. Smith, the visionary philanthropist and real estate developer whose legacy inspired the organization’s renaming in 2006. The event will feature a musical prelude, followed by tributes and remembrances from Ring House residents who knew him personally. His certificate of recognition will be accepted by his grandson, David Bruce Smith.

Monday, May 18 from 2 – 3 p.m. | Tribute to Vladimir Fridman

  • The committee will honor Vladimir Fridman, an acclaimed guitarist, singer, composer and teacher. Following the tribute, Fridman will perform a special concert: “Jewish Life Through Music…in 30 Minutes.”

Wednesday, May 20 from 1 -2 p.m. | Tribute to Steve Kerbel

  • The committee will honor Steve Kerbel, a Jewish education consultant, teacher and wine educator. Following the tribute, Kerbel will deliver a mini-lecture: “The Vital Importance of Adult Jewish Learning.”

Each event will be followed by a reception. All three events are open to Ring House residents and members of the broader CESLC community.

“For the second consecutive year, our residents have led the way in celebrating their Jewish heritage – honoring local Jewish Americans whose contributions through business, education and the arts continue to inspire generations,” said Ring House Executive Director Scott Foster. “These tributes reflect the cultural pride, deep roots and generosity of spirit that make Ring House so extraordinary, and we look forward to this becoming a lasting tradition.” 

About Charles E. Smith Life Communities

Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Jewish faith-based organization serving more than 1,300 older adults annually, including nearly 1,200 on its 38-acre campus in North Bethesda, Maryland, and approximately 200 in-home clients throughout the Greater Washington region. Founded in 1910, CESLC is among the largest single-site senior living campuses in the nation, featuring a wide range of living options and services, including independent apartment living (Revitz House and Ring House), assisted living (Cohen-Rosen House and Landow House), and long-term and post-acute care (Hebrew Home of Greater Washington). CESLC is committed to empowering older adults by offering meaningful connections, intellectual engagement, artistic expression and cultural exploration. CESLC also provides outpatient senior-focused medical care (Hirsh Health Center) and offers the region’s only temporary shelter exclusively serving victims of elder abuse (ElderSAFE™ Center). Additionally, CESLC provides personalized care that empowers older adults in Montgomery County, Maryland and Washington D.C., to live safely and independently in the comfort of their homes (SmithLife® Homecare).