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Who Was the Jewish Sex Expert Dr. Ruth Westheimer?

Dr. Ruth Westheimer sadly passed away on the 12th July 2024. Tributes have been shared from around the world as the 96-year-old’s death was confirmed – But just who was this iconic woman?
Dr. Ruth Westheimer, commonly known as Dr. Ruth, is a renowned Jewish sex therapist, media personality, and author who gained widespread fame in the 1980s for her frank and approachable discussions about sex and relationships. Here’s a brief overview of her life and career:
The Birth and Early Life of Dr. Westheimer
Born in Frankfurt in 1928, Karola Ruth Siegel, known throughout her career as Dr. Ruth Westheimer, faced tragedy at an early age.
A holocaust survivor, she escaped to Switzerland at the age of 10, losing her parents in the process. After the war, she emigrated to Palestine where she served as a sniper in the Haganah, the Jewish paramilitary organisation. She later moved to France and the United States, where she pursued higher education.
Dr. Ruth earned a master’s degree in Sociology from The New School and later a Doctorate in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. She began her career as a sex therapist by working with Planned Parenthood in New York.
Her work in this field led her to teach human sexuality at various institutions before eventually becoming a radio and television personality – and the much-beloved sex expert and Doctor we know.
Dr. Ruth’s Media Career
Dr. Ruth became a household name sometime in the 80s, when her radio show, Sexually Speaking, first aired. She rose in popularity largely due to her warm personality and grandmotherly demeanour. Her candid discussions about sex made her a popular figure, breaking taboos and making sex education more accessible to the public.
Dr. Ruth went on to author numerous books on sex and relationships, contributing significantly to public discourse on these topics.
Here are some of her publications:
- “Sex for Dummies” (1995)
- “Dr. Ruth’s Guide to Good Sex” (1983)
- “The Art of Arousal: A Celebration of Erotic Art Throughout History” (1993)
- “Dr. Ruth’s Sex After 50: Revving Up the Romance, Passion & Excitement!” (1997)
- “Dr. Ruth’s Encyclopedia of Sex” (1994)
- “The Doctor Is In: Dr. Ruth on Love, Life, and Joie de Vivre” (2015)
- “Myths of Love: Echoes of Ancient Mythology in the Modern Romantic Imagination” (2014)
- “Heavenly Sex: Sexuality in the Jewish Tradition” (1995)
- “Sexually Speaking: What Every Woman Needs to Know about Sexual Health” (1996)
- “Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver” (2012)
Legacy and Impact on Sex and Sexuality
There is no denying that Dr. Ruth had a profound impact on how sex and relationships are discussed in the media.
Erobella reports that many of its clients and escorts acknowledge Dr. Ruth for her efforts in demystifying sex and making discussions about it more open and less stigmatised. The escort directory site says that clients from all over the world feel more comfortable discussing their kinks and fantasies now than they would have before the 80s and the rise of Dr. Ruth – Even in her later years, Dr. Ruth remained active in the media, continuing to write, speak, and educate people about sex and relationships.
The Woman Behind the Sex
About Dr. Ruth | Details |
Full Name | Karola Ruth Siegel (known as Dr. Ruth Westheimer) |
Birth and Death | June 4, 1928 – July 12, 2024 |
Place of Birth | Frankfurt, Germany |
Early Life | Escaped the Holocaust by being sent to Switzerland; parents died in the Holocaust |
Education | Master’s in Sociology (The New School); Doctorate in Education (Teachers College, Columbia University) |
Early Career | Worked with Planned Parenthood; taught human sexuality |
Radio and TV Career | Gained fame in the 1980s with radio show “Sexually Speaking”; hosted TV programs |
Books and Publications | Authored numerous books on sex and relationships |
Key Contributions | Pioneered open discussions about sex and relationships in media |
Personal Life | Married three times; two children |
Legacy | Considered a cultural icon; broke taboos around sex education |
It has been noted often that Dr. Ruth was not only an expert in sex education, but also an incredibly strong, resilient, and warm individual that people were naturally drawn to.
It is no surprise that she became an influential figure in both Jewish and broader cultural contexts. Her life was full of trials, but it is clear that she rose above every one and carved out an impactful and respectable career for herself that has changed the lives of millions.
Upon news of her passing, her work has surged in popularity and videos of Dr. Ruth’s interviews and snippets from her shows have gone viral. Thanks to social media, a new generation is sure to enjoy learning all about the impact this incredible woman had on the acceptance of sex and sexuality, in all of its shapes and pleasures.
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Is it worth playing free slot machines in 2025?

For beginners, free slot games are a great introduction to the world of online casinos. These games offer the excitement of playing slots without the financial risk, making them an ideal choice for players who want to explore different themes, features, and mechanics before investing real money. Those looking for trustworthy casinos can benefit from platforms like CasinoSpot, which only selects trusted online casinos and offers access to fair games, secure payment methods, and excellent customer support.
What are free slot machines?
Free slot machines are online casino games that allow players to enjoy the thrill of slot gaming without the need to wager any real money. These games are often used as a way for beginners to familiarize themselves with slot mechanics, gameplay features, and bonus rounds before making any financial commitment. Free slots simulate the exact experience of playing a real-money game, offering the same graphics, sounds, and features, but without the risk of losing money.
Free slot machines are also great for experienced players who want to practice or try out new slot games without any financial pressure. These games provide an opportunity to experience the latest releases and explore different casinos or slot providers before deciding where to invest real money. Additionally, free slots often allow players to accumulate virtual credits to experience the game’s full features, such as bonus rounds and free spins. However, while free slot machines offer entertainment and practice, they don’t provide any winnings, as no real money is involved in the gameplay.
The benefits of playing free slot machines
Free slot machines offer a unique and enjoyable way for both beginners and experienced players to explore the world of online casinos without any financial risk. With the opportunity to play at your own pace and try out different game styles, free slots provide a fantastic introduction to online gambling.
Here are some key benefits of playing free slot machines:
- Risk-Free Experience
One of the biggest benefits of free slots is that they provide a risk-free gambling experience. Players can enjoy the excitement of playing slot games without the concern of losing money. This allows them to explore different games, features, and mechanics with no financial pressure. - Learn the Game Mechanics
Free slots are an excellent way to learn how slot machines work. Beginners can familiarize themselves with the game rules, paylines, bonus features, and different types of symbols before moving on to real-money games. It’s a great way to build confidence and understand the game’s mechanics. - Try Out New Strategies
Many players enjoy experimenting with various betting strategies when playing free slot machines. Since there is no monetary risk, players can test their theories and strategies to see how they affect their chances of winning. - Enjoy a Variety of Themes
Free slots offer a wide variety of themes, from classic fruit machines to elaborate storylines based on mythology, movies, and more. This diversity allows players to explore different types of slots and find games that they truly enjoy. - Access to Bonus Features
Free slot games often come with exciting bonus features such as free spins, multipliers, and interactive bonus rounds. These features make the gameplay more enjoyable and provide opportunities to experience some of the most thrilling aspects of online slots without spending any money.
Playing free slot machines is an excellent way to enjoy online gambling while honing your skills and exploring various game types. From learning game mechanics to experimenting with new strategies, free slots offer many benefits that enhance your gaming experience. By taking advantage of free slots, players can build their confidence and develop strategies that will benefit them when they transition to real-money games.
The best free slot machines in 2025
As online casinos continue to evolve, the range of free slot machines available to players in 2025 has expanded significantly. The best free slot machines provide a variety of exciting experiences, from thrilling bonus rounds to immersive storylines that keep players coming back for more.
Here are some of the top free slot machines to play in 2025:
- Tombstone RIP
Tombstone RIP is a thrilling free slot machine with a western theme that immerses players in an old-western atmosphere. Featuring wild symbols, free spins, and a bonus round, it offers an exciting experience with high potential payouts. The graphics are top-notch, providing a visually stunning and immersive experience. - The Wild Life
The Wild Life is a beautifully designed slot that takes players on an adventure into the heart of the jungle. With its vibrant graphics and animal-themed reels, this free slot provides an exciting gameplay experience. Features like wild symbols and multipliers enhance the potential for big wins, making it an ideal choice for players looking to explore new themes. The game’s simplicity and fun gameplay make it a popular choice among slot enthusiasts. - Royal Spins
Royal Spins transports players into a world of luxury with its regal theme and elegant design. The game features rich symbols like crowns and jewels, along with a rewarding bonus round and free spins. Its smooth gameplay and attractive rewards make it an excellent option for players who want to experience the thrill of high-end slot gaming without risking any money. - Cash Eruption
Cash Eruption is a free slot that stands out for its explosive graphics and thrilling gameplay. The game revolves around the excitement of hitting a jackpot with multipliers and wild symbols. Players can take advantage of its free spins and bonus features, which keep the excitement high throughout the gameplay. With its dynamic visuals and potential for large payouts, Cash Eruption is a must-try for players who enjoy action-packed slot machines.
Whether you’re new to online slots or an experienced player looking to practice or learn new games, free slots 2025 are a great opportunity to improve your skills and have fun. By playing these free games, players can gain valuable experience and feel more confident when they decide to move on to real money slots.
Conclusion
Playing free slot machines in 2025 is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the world of online gaming without the financial risk. These games provide an opportunity for both beginners and experienced players to familiarize themselves with different slot mechanics, experiment with various strategies, and simply enjoy the thrill of gaming. By practicing on free slots, you can build the confidence needed for transitioning to real-money games, ensuring you have an exciting and rewarding gambling experience.
FAQ
Can you win real money with free slot machines?
No, free slot machines do not offer real money payouts.
What are the benefits of playing free slot machines?
The benefits include a risk-free experience, the ability to learn the game mechanics, test strategies, and enjoy a wide variety of themes without financial commitment.
Are free slot machines available on mobile?
Yes, many online casinos offer free slot games that are optimized for mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy them on the go.
Do I need to register to play free slot machines?
In most cases, you don’t need to register to play free slot machines. However, some casinos may require registration to access certain games or features.
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Looking for experienced, reasonably priced window cleaning in Winnipeg?
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Winnipegger behind restoration of historic Jewish cemetery in Portugal

By MYRON LOVE The Butterfly Effect is roughly the idea that, metaphorically, great trees grow from small seeds or, to be more specific, the theory that tornadoes in North America may be triggered by a butterfly in Africa – or a seagull in the Atlantic – flapping its wings multiple times.
This story is an example of the Butterfly Effect in human terms. Roughly 40 years ago, a Winnipegger by the name of Bonnie Neil – she was known as Bonnie Griffith back then – happened to be visiting Portugal – in her role as program director of the old Hargrave YMHA’s Stay Young seniors group – and came across an abandoned Jewish cemetery in the south of the country. She mentioned the sorry state of the cemetery to a member of the small Jewish community in Lisbon. Now, that cemetery is a Jewish heritage site.
A social worker by training, she was hired by the Y in 1975 to work with teens. After a short time, she switched her focus to developing programming for older Jewish adults. “I founded the Stay Young Club,” recalls Neil (who isn’t Jewish). “When I started at the Y, there were no programs for older adults. I first proposed to Les Marks (who was then the Y’s executive director) the idea of programming for older adults and he gave me carte blanche to create programming.”
With funding from the Jewish Foundation and the Federal Government’s New Horizons program, Neil set to work. She began with a weekly gym and swim program, then added a weekly lunch, a Yiddish group, a choir and a light exercise group. Within a couple of years, the Stay Young Club was offering activities for older adults every week day.
The ambitious Neil then began going further afield. She began organizing short trips for Stay Young members, starting with Calgary and Edmonton, subsequently to Florida and Palm Springs. Looking even further afield, she took her charges to Israel three times –with assistance the first time from the well known Noach Witman (who operated Witman Travel in addition to hosting the Jewish Radio Hour). Subsequent Israeli trips were organized through Beth Shore at Flair Travel.
Les was always asking me where we were going to go next,” she remembers. “I had come across a little book listing places of Jewish interest. I noticed that Portugal wasn’t listed. We had been flying with CP Air -which flew to Portugal. I decided to go to Portugal to see for myself what might be of interest to Jewish travellers.
“As I knew nothing about the country, I asked a Jewish woman I met what there was in Portugal that might be of interest to Jewish travellers? She suggested I visit the southern city of Faro where there was a Jewish cemetery.”
Now some background: It is common knowledge (I think) that all Jews (except those who were willing to convert to Christianity) were expelled from Portugal in 1496 – four years after Jews were expelled from Spain. I hadn’t given much thought to what Jewish life in Portugal was like following the expulsion. According to information that Neil gave me, Portugal began allowing some Jews back into the country in the early 1800s. During World War II, the country became a haven for Jews fleeing Nazi persecution. Thousands of Jewish refugees found safety in Portugal. After the war, most left for other destinations. The Jewish population currently is about 900 – with two-thirds living in Lisbon, the capital.
(Ed. note: Portugal has become a prime destination for Israelis seeking to obtain citizenship in a different country, although without actually leaving Israel. According to the Times of Israel, over 60,000 Israelis have been granted Portugese citizenship, although only 569 had actually moved there as of September 2023. According to the TOI article, ‘The surge of Israeli applicants began after Portugal passed its “law of return” in 2015, allowing the descendants of Portuguese Sephardic Jews who were affected by the 16th-century Inquisition to apply for nationality. The Portuguese government has announced plans to end this policy in December 2023, saying its purpose of reparation will be ‘fulfilled.’ “
It sounds quite similar to the vast number of Lebanese who hold Canadian citizenship – between 40-75,000. It seems that Portugal and Canada offer attractive alternative destinations for Israelis on the one hand, and Lebanese on the other. If either group thought their lives were truly in peril, then they would have a safe place to where they could run, but in the meantime both Israelis and Lebanese seem content to stay where they are.)
In the 15th century, Faro had been a centre of Hebrew printing. The Jewish community began to be reconstituted in the 19th century. The cemetery was opened in 1820. In the 1860s, Jews from Morocco settled in the community – with some Russian and Polish Jews coming before World War I.

So Neil traveled to Portugal on an exploratory visit and asked her guide to show her the cemetery. She was horrified by what she saw.
“The last Jewish resident of Faro had died a year before,” she recalls. “When I arrived, the gates were locked. I could see that there was garbage and weeds everywhere. I also learned that the city was planning to tear down the cemetery to expand a sports field nearby. I let it be known that I was planning to bring a group of Jewish tourists and I got a promise that the cemetery would be cleaned up.”
During a stopover in Lisbon, she mentioned the cemetery’s deplorable condition. Then she went home. As it happened, the tour was cancelled due to a lack of registrants.
She says that she never gave Portugal another thought.
In 1985 she left the Y for government employment. “While I loved working at the Y,” she says, “I was a single mother by then with two children – and the government was offering a salary that was twice what the Y was paying.”
Recently, Neil learned what happened to the cemetery. It seems that shortly after she alerted the Jewish community in Lisbon, a community member by the name of Ike Bitton founded the Faro Cemetery Restoration Fund. The result of the fundraising effort resulted not only in the cemetery’s restoration, but also the opening a small Jewish museum containing a display of furniture from Faro’s synagogues.
Neil left government in 1992 to go into private practice in the social work field. She notes that she did some programming with seniors at the Simkin Centre. She retired in 2014. She still supports some Jewish institutions such as the Winnipeg Jewish Theatre.