Winter 2015-2016 - Shaarei Shomayim

Transcription

winter 2015 / 2016
tevet-shevat-adar-nisan 5776
What’s inside
rabbi chaim strauchler........................................ 3
Youth Matters.........................................................15
rabbi Noah cheses................................................... 5
Calendars – schedule of services................... 19
rabbi Elliott diamond........................................... 7
Photo gallery........................................................ 25
from the executive director’s desk.................. 8
shinshinim.................................................................31
president’s message...............................................9
union street renamed benny stark street.....34
Rabbi Grundland....................................................12
family news............................................................. 35
Netivot HaTorah Day School
The Jack & Anne Weinbaum
Education Centre
Tel: 905.771.1234 | Fax: 905.771.1807
www.netivot.com
2
North Campus
18 Atkinson Avenue
Thornhill, Ontario
L4J 8C8
winter 2015 / 2016
South Campus
470 Glencairn Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
M5N 1V8
Rabbi chaim
strauchler
From the Rabbi’s Desk
Our Long Term Self
J
ust Do It. Live for the Moment. Party Like There Is No Tomorrow.
These mantras pulsate through our culture – gracing billboards and
blaring forth in popular music. These slogans do not simply celebrate
hedonism; they advocate for a specific perspective on time. There is no
yesterday or tomorrow – there is only now.
The turn of the secular New Year is
a moment with an intense feeling of this
“now.” Yet, even as the alcohol is drunk
and the music plays, society at large
reflects on the meaning of time. We
witness retrospectives on the year that
has passed, and we read predictions
for the year ahead. Many people are
inspired to make resolutions to live
better; gym subscriptions skyrocket.
A popular photo blog called
Humans of New York recently included
a portrait of a young woman sitting on
a suitcase in a busy train station. The
photo’s caption reads: I wish I’d partied
a little less. People always say ‘be true to
yourself.’ But that’s misleading, because
there are two selves. There’s your short
term self, and there’s your long term self.
And if you’re only true to your short term
self, your long term self slowly decays.
The blog does not tell us this
woman’s name or her story, only this
short revelation. In describing her two
selves – short term and long term –
this young woman integrates time into
her self-understanding. Her identity
contains a perspective of “now” but
also a perspective of “past and future.”
She argues in this short reflection that
living only in the “now” can harm her
truer and fuller self.
Pirkei Avot also links selfperception to time. The third chapter
begins: Akavia ben Mehalalel said:
Consider three things and you will not
come into the grip of sin: Know whence
you came, wither you go, and before
Whom you will give justification and
reckoning.
Akavia encourages the person who
strives to avoid sin to see herself above
the moment – as separate from the
“now.” She should act with reference
to her long-term self, sensing both her
past and her future. We all know how
difficult it is to act upon this advice.
We make thousands of small decisions
every day – how often do we take the
time to ask ourselves how this will
affect our long-term selves?
In a recent article, Rabbi Lee
Buckman, head of school at CHAT,
extended this idea by applying it to a
family’s short-term and long-term self.
I believe that the decision to send a
son or a daughter to Jewish high school
should remain the parent’s decision. It
is a very big picture question. We live
in a world where parents increasingly
acquiesce to their children’s desires.
Sadly, this seems to include a child’s
inclination to drop out of Jewish
education at the age of 13.
Our appreciation of our long-term
self develops over time. As children,
we are keenly aware of our short-term
self and have much more difficulty
accessing our long-term self. As we
mature, we gain a deeper appreciation
for our long-term self. We slowly
sense how our short-term decisions
cumulatively affect who we become
during the course of a lifetime. Rabbi
Buckman argues that it is a parent’s
responsibility to employ long-term
thinking on behalf of a child, when he
has not yet learned how to think for his
long-term self.
Rabbi Buckman’s insight allows
us to extend the concept of long-term
thinking beyond a single generation.
We are each responsible for the
continuity of our Judaism. We have
been entrusted with a legacy from our
parents and grandparents. We must
think not just about our short-term self
and how we can enjoy our Judaism. We
must also think about the long-term
viability of this sacred trust. A Jewish
high school education is only one place
where this principle holds. Our longterm Jewish self asks us to consider
how our actions on a Shabbat morning
tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776
cont. on page 4
3
cont. from page 3
affect our children and our community. If Shabbat is only
a time when we stay home and relax – when we simply talk
among friends as we enjoy a l’chaim, we are only being true
to our short-term selves. When we choose to come to shul to
daven, to learn and to say hello to a stranger, we invest in our
long-term selves as we set an example for the many children
who will one day choose how Judaism will affect their lives.
Our personal long-term self slowly decays if we do not
pay attention to it. Our communal long-term self slowly
decays if we do not pay attention it. As Akavia ben Mehalalel
said, let us think about where we have come from across the
generations, and let us consider where we are going. When
the time comes to give an accounting, may we feel justly
confident that we have left behind a Judaism possessing a
healthy long-term self.
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winter 2015 / 2016
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Cultivating Courage
Rabbi Noah
Cheses
assistant rabbi
The Legacy of the Maccabees
in a World of Uncertainty
S
oon after the horrific terror attacks in Paris, a friend sent me an
email with the following message: America 9/11, Paris 11/13,
Israel 24/7. Indeed, Israelis live with a perpetual fear of violence and
terror. Their individual and collective morale is challenged again and
again. The recent wave of stabbings, shootings and car rampages has
been particularly destabilizing, making it almost impossible to live a normal
life in Israel. Nevertheless, our brothers and sisters in Israel have, for the most
part, demonstrated heroic resilience. They continue to walk down the streets
and raise their children with profound optimism and unending courage.
We just celebrated Chanukah,
a holiday that commemorates
Jewish courage. The outnumbered
Maccabees demonstrated outstanding
determination and bravery in battling
and defeating the mighty Greek army
in 161 BCE. The military prowess of
the Jewish people during that time
period was largely downplayed during
the centuries of Jewish exile. That
changed after returning to the land of
Israel. Shlomo Sand, in his book, “The
Invention of the Land of Israel: From
Holy Land to Homeland” documents
that many early Zionists began to
look at themselves as heirs to the
military successes of the Maccabees.
This painting (top of next column)
from the early years of the state of
Israel demonstrates how the dots
were connected between the military
resurgence of the Jewish people and the
legacy of the Maccabees.
The early labor Zionists saw
Chanukah as one of the few events in
Jewish history that gave legitimacy to
their courageous efforts to mobilize
physical Jewish might to fight and
defend a sovereign people. For this
reason, Chanukah was actually renamed
by the Zionists in the early 1930’s as
“Chag Ha-Maccabim,” the holiday of
the Maccabees. The Maccabees became
a national symbol of power and fighting
for one’s principles. It also became a
cultural symbol of tenacity and grit,
as manifested by the naming of the Tel
Aviv Macabee basketball team.
In 1936, the Russian born Zionist
song writer, Menashe Ravina, wrote a
Chanukah song called Mi Yemalel to
help shift the focus of the holiday from
the Divine miracle of the oil to the
Jewish heroism and military might of
the Maccabees. Here are the words to
the song:
‫מי ימלל גבורות ישראל‬
‫אותן מי ימנה‬
‫גיבורהן בכל דור יקום‬
‫הגואל העם‬
‫שמע‬
‫בימים ההם בזמן הזה‬
‫מכבי מושיע ופודה‬
‫ובימינו כל עם ישראל‬
‫ יקום ויגאל‬,‫יתאחד‬
Who can retell of the mighty acts of Israel,
Who can count them?
In every age, a hero
Came to our aid.
Hark!
In days of yore in Israel’s ancient land
Brave Maccabeus led his faithful band
But now all Israel must as one arise
Redeem itself through deed and sacrifice.
The opening line of this song – who
can retell the mighty act of Israel – is
cont. on page 6
5
cont. from page 5
actually a secular rewording of Psalm
106:2 – who can retell the mighty acts
of G-d.
‫תהלים פרק קו‬
‫ה הודו להי כי טוב כי לעולם חסדו‬-‫הללו‬
‫מי ימלל גבורות הי ישמיע כל תהלתו‬
Psalms 106
Hallelujah. Praise the Lord for G-d is
good; G-d’s steadfast love is eternal.
Who can retell the mighty acts of G-d,
proclaim all his praises.
By removing G-d from the story, the
secular Zionists sought to emphasize
the human efforts that brought about
the military victories of the past and of
the present. Not all Zionists, however,
sought to take G-d out of the picture.
Many religious Zionists were able
to hold onto both dimensions of the
Chanukah narrative – the spiritual
miracle of the oil and the miraculous
military victory of the Maccabees, both
of which were orchestrated by G-d.
Having just celebrated Chanukah,
we are still thinking about the bravery
and the courage of the Maccabees. This
year we must continue thinking about
these virtues, in order to properly
appreciate the remarkable resilience of
our brothers and sisters in the Land of
Israel.
We also need to think about these
virtues in our own lives as the world
becomes an increasingly scary place
to live in. In his book “The Courage
Quotient: How Science Can Make
You Braver,” Dr. Robert BiswasDiener, defines courage as having the
willingness to act towards a moral or
worthwhile goal despite the possibility
of risk, uncertainty and fear. As we
move through the winter months, we
must keep the flame of the Maccabees
burning strong. We pray that G-d
gives us the strength to kindle within
ourselves a deeper physical, moral
and psychological courage. May we
overcome our fears and do what is
moral and worthwhile.
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winter 2015 / 2016
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It’s Worth the Price
E
very Friday night, as the peace of Shabbat
enters our lives and homes, we have an
opportunity to bless our children. Using the
traditional words of blessing, we ask Hashem
to endow our children with the same qualities
that characterized our ancestors: May our daughters be
like Sarah, Rivka, Rachel and Leah and may our sons
be like Ephraim and Menashe. It’s the choice of male
exemplars that seems unusual. Why don’t we invoke the
names of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov, our forefathers
in the blessing, instead of mentioning the names of two of
Jacob’s grandchildren? What special qualities did they have
that distinguished them more than their other siblings or
more than their holy parents and grandparents?
A recent article, entitled “Lesson’s Learned from
Orthodoxy’s Dramatic Growth,” written by Steven M.
Cohen, Research Professor of Jewish Social Policy at
Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion, and
Director of the Berman Jewish Policy Archive at Stanford
University, quotes Charles Liebman, an esteemed social
scientist of contemporary Jewry, who wrote in 1973:
The American Jew is torn between two sets of valuesthose of integration and acceptance into American society
and those of Jewish group survival.
Cohen goes on to comment that:
…some resistance to integration may be required to
assure numerical sustenance and qualitative enhancement…
While other movements certainly make their own distinctive
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contributions to Jewish society and civilization in America,
the sustainability of Orthodoxy contains important
implications for non-Orthodox Jews.
What lessons does Orthodoxy hold that are important
for the flourishing of Jewish life?
Cohen suggests that our “secret” is revealed in an
acronym: P.R.I.C.E.
Passion
Rituals
Informal association
Community
Educational activities
•We are passionate about being Jewish and celebrate the
purpose that fills our lives because of that passion.
•Rituals, or mitzvot and customs, are imperatives in our
lives that boldly guide and shape our behaviour and
ethical growth.
•We understand and recognize the importance of the
informal influence of our family, friends, neighbours and
colleagues with whom we associate daily and weekly.
•Community affiliations – such as synagogues,
organizations, charities or political-like activities, are
not just hobbies or past times. They are the fulfillment of
a religious obligation to belong and to help.
•There can be no sustainability of our people and its faith
without educating the next generation about who we
are, what we believe and what we must do.
Ephraim and Menashe were the children born to Yosef
while they lived in a very challenging and alien culture.
And yet, they withstood the powerful influences of that
society, maintained their faith and sense of identity and
later became leaders of the Jewish people.
So every Friday night when we take a deep breath and
acknowledge the blessings of our lives and consider our
dreams for the future of our family, friends and people, we
invoke the names of Ephraim and Menashe. And we know
today – as our people always knew – what the price is that
we must pay to secure our future. We pay it gladly because
sometimes, the price is really worth it.
7
From the Executive Director’s Desk
Nicole toledano
Transitions
I
recently attended the 8th Annual OU (Orthodox Union) Conference of
Executive Directors and Administrators in Atlanta, Georgia. This was the
second conference I attended, and I joined an amazing, committed and
caring group of executive directors and administrators from all over the
USA and Canada. Of the 35 staff members present, there were six from Canada
(Ottawa, Montreal and, of course, Toronto).
Whether a small or big shul (a shul
from New Orleans with 50 members
or the BAYT with 800 members), we
all share the same issues.
1. Members
a.An amazing group that gets the
job done.
b.An aging population and
changing demographics.
c.A group of Millennials who are
difficult to reach.
d.A hostile group that want things
THEIR way or the highway.
e.A feeling of entitlement, no
matter what the situation is.
f. People who put their heart and
soul into the place they grew
up in or the place their children
will grow up in.
2. Structures
a.Many older facilities which
need updating and an influx of
money.
b.A need for ongoing capital
campaigns to maintain high
standards.
3. Clergy – ensure that there is a
positive team approach, as both the
clergy and the executive director
have a role to play in ensuring that
the work, both spiritual and physical,
gets done.
4. Changing leadership (most board
and executive members serve for two
years).
a.A president who micro-manages.
b.A president who is completely
hands off.
c.A succession plan that doesn’t
always work as planned.
d.A position that is rarely wanted,
but taken on whole-heartedly.
5. A commitment to a job that
can sometimes make us smile and
sometimes take lots of hours of our
personal lives as we care about what
we do.
6. A heart and soul that is doing it for
others.
We were able to hear from an FBI
Cyber-security expert who helped us
see where our system vulnerabilities
lie. The world we live in today is one of
the instant – instant message, texting,
updating. We have to be diligent
and vigilant. Nothing can be taken
for granted anymore. Complacency
usually results in not being able to
react to cyber-attacks or data draining
that can cause tremendous problems
for the shul and for the members.
At the heart of the conference,
was the issue of transitions. Whether
voluntary, involuntary or a reaction
to a crisis – transitions can help focus
us as staff as well as a community.
Your leadership and community
are beacons which help keep a
community together in a crisis. We
learned that when there is a natural
crisis (e.g. a Houston shul was totally
flooded with over 2½ feet of water over
the summer), the matter of who was
sponsoring which kiddush becomes
irrelevant. How is the Rabbi going to
get all the Sifrei Torah and sefarim out
of the building? How is the shul going
to communicate with its members
when all the computer hard drives
are on the floor of the office, which
is now under a few feet of water.
How is Joe, who is in a wheelchair,
going to get out of his house to
safety? These are the times that your
spiritual community becomes your
“everything community”. In Houston,
not only did the members of the shul
help out, the members of the general
cont. on page 10
8
winter 2015 / 2016
Joyce Eklove
President’s Message
F
or the past year and a half, I have had the
privilege of working with our dedicated clergy
and committed volunteers. I am very proud of
what we have been able to accomplish. First
and foremost, Shaarei Shomayim is a house of
worship, but our leadership understands that a
synagogue has the capacity to be much more. The Executive
and Board of Directors are very aware of the responsibility we
have to our membership, to create a Jewish centre dedicated
to providing religious, educational and social opportunities,
always strongly connected to Israel.
Our building is a hub of activities. Since the High
Holidays, we have had the pleasure of enjoying many special
Shabbatot. It was very meaningful being part of the world
wide Shabbat Project. We welcomed Rabbi Shlomo Katz, who
truly enhanced the experience. Many families participated in
the Friday night outreach dinner, and the Teen Tisch was
enjoyed by a large number of our youth. Over 250 people
gathered for lunch in the shul. The Havdalah Concert was a
very uplifting event as Shlomo has the ability, through words,
music and dance, to create a very unique atmosphere which
involves all who attend. Thank you to the Silber Family for
sponsoring Shlomo Katz’s visit.
We were also privileged to welcome Col. Grisha
Yakubovitch of the Co-Ordinated Activities in the Territories
Brigade and Eli Beer of Hatzalah of Israel who helped
bring us closer to Israel during these difficult times. Our
visiting speakers on Shabbat, including our Scholars in
Residence, Rabbi Michael Hattin and Shuli Taubes, as well
as Rabbi Mordecai Torczyner of the YU Kollel and Dr. Elliott
Malamet. We have also enjoyed our inaugural Walerstein
scholar, Professor James Diamond. Each provided thoughtprovoking ideas which added to our Shabbat experience.
It is especially gratifying to walk through the halls on
a regular Shabbat morning. Our youth program, under
the guidance of Jacob Posluns, reaches out to children
from toddlers to teens. The program provides them
with opportunities to daven and to enhance their Jewish
identity. Since one is never too young to be involved in shul
activities, we have created a new “Stay & Play” program for
preschoolers. This is a chance for parents and tots to gather
together on Shabbat mornings for play and story time, giving
them the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company in a
synagogue atmosphere.
Our Parent-Child Learning program started in
November, and it is very heartwarming to see a full room
of parents and children who regularly gather on Motzei
Shabbat to learn together.
Koby Spiegel, Eli Minkowitz and Ethan Factor encourage
our teens to participate in the Teen Minyan. The teens
also build commitments and foster friendships by getting
together for fun filled outings. Our Shinshinim, Noa Voss
and Yoni Hadar, have been a wonderful addition to our
synagogue. They bring a special connection to Israel for
all of us and have added a very dynamic element to the
teen minyan. Our teen girls gather weekly with Noa for
interesting, relevant discussions.
Our Young Professionals continue to attract new
members by making Shaarei Shomayim a synagogue which
offers relevant programming and so much more. They
have created an essential place for themselves within our
community. With frequent opportunities to get together
at lunch, kiddushes, serious learning sessions, and chessed
activities, they play a very valuable role as our future leaders.
We welcome their involvement and input.
Our Lunch & Learn series with Rabbi Strauchler, and
special exercise program designed for seniors are part of
our ongoing outreach to ensure that everybody has a place
within our building.
I am very proud of the frequent calls which I receive
thanking us for our Chessed activities. I thank the Chessed
Committee for providing meals and visits when needed.
Following the highly successful “Impact India” trip last
year, Rabbi Cheses will once again be leading a serviceoriented learning trip for a group of university students, this
year to Ethiopia. This unique trip manifests the true meaning
of ‘tikkun olum’. The group will be reaching out to people
who desperately need acts of loving kindness. This trip will
be a life changing event for each member of the group. They
will participate in serious learning sessions and then have
cont. on page 10
9
cont. from page 9
President’s Message
the opportunity to translate what they
have learned into real life experiences.
We welcome Dr. Matt Reingold and
Rabbi Hartley Permutter as our new Adult
Education Co-Chairs, and look forward
to their upcoming programs. Both the
Sisterhood and Brotherhood have been
very busy and I thank Katy Korman and
Robert Klein for all their hard work.
Katy describes the great Sisterhood
programs on the next page of this bulletin.
The Brotherhood ran a successful
tailgating trip to a Bufflo Bills game and
an advance screening of Star Wars. The
Brotherhood is also raising money for
victims of terror in Israel.
Our cultural involvement activities
include the “Where Words Matter”
book club, and two live theatre events
held in our building. In November, The
Aspaklaria Jewish Repertory Theatre,
led by Joseph Fackenheim, performed
“Dead End,” and in the spring, we will
host Harmony Over Wars production
of “A Simple Twist of Faith.” I would
like to thank Michael and Francine
Goldrich and Amanda Salem-Eisenstat
for their work on our enhanced
Kiddushes. The improvements are so
appreciated (please see page 13).
As approved by The Board, we will
be setting up a centre mechitza in the
Max & Lil Sharp Sanctuary twelve times
in the coming year. A schedule of dates
has been sent out to our membership.
There has been much concern
expressed by some of our members
about
the
proposed
property
development to the west of our
building. I want to reassure everyone
that we are doing all we can to protect
our synagogue’s assets and interests. We
have engaged professional legal counsel
to investigate the shul’s legal rights and
ensure that Shaarei Shomayim’s best
interests are protected. We will keep
you informed throughout the process.
Winter is fast approaching and
many people will be leaving for warmer
climates. This makes it increasingly
difficult to ensure that we have daily
minyanim. Please make every effort
to attend weekday services to ensure
we have a minyan. I thank you in
advance for your co-operation, and for
participating in this mitzvah.
So much of our success is due to
the commitment and dedication of
our incredible clergy, Rabbi Chaim
Strauchler, Rabbi Noah Cheses, Rabbi
Elliot Diamond, Cantor Zvi Katzman,
Ralph Levine, and Rabbi David Ely
Grundland. Each one contributes to
our shul in a significant way and I am
very grateful to be able to reach out to
them for guidance and inspiration.
I truly enjoy working with my
wonderful team of Senior Officers,
David Ulmer, Lori Disenhouse, Brian
Cantor, Judy Laxer, Irving Benmergui
and Benny Osher. They have been
vital to our synagogue’s success, and
are a constant source of strength to
me. I also want to express appreciation
to the Board of Directors for their
sage judgement and leadership. I am
privileged to have the opportunity to
work with such a fine group of people.
So much of what we accomplish
could not be done without the help of
our capable staff. I want to thank Nicole
Toledano, our Executive Director, as
well as our office staff, Miriam Price,
Jennifer Alexandroff, Lejla Petrela and
Joven Pinol for their support. We can
always depend on them to get the job done.
I want to also thank the vast
number of members who give of their
time and energy in order to make
Shaarei Shomayim into the vibrant
synagogue that it is. There are many
who have contributed to the success
of our synagogue. As long as we stay
focused on the lesson we learn from
Pirke Avot, that “the world is based on
three things: the Torah, serving God,
and active loving-kindness” we will
continuously strive to do even better
for our synagogue, as well as the entire
Jewish Community.
Arthur joins me in wishing you
well over the winter season. No matter
what the weather, we hope that you stay
warm and enjoy good health and much
happiness.
A crisis makes everyday things,
like who took your seat in shul, totally
meaningless; it helps focus on the
important and life changing things.
In the end, a community needs
to factor in every decision of how to
deal with the crisis; how to maintain
operations and finally how to move
forward.
Aside from all of the great
networking that takes place at these
conferences, I know that those same
people will still be around the table
next year with me, trying to figure out
the best way to do our jobs: making
sure that our shuls keep growing and
thriving.
cont. from page 8
Transitions
community (both Jewish and nonJewish) came out to help. Members of
a church helped the Rabbi move out
of his house. A community member,
not a member of the shul, donated
chairs so that the shul could have
Rosh Hashanah services. Another
one donated the flooring.
10
winter 2015 / 2016
Shaarei Shomayim
Sisterhood
O
n Wednesday September 30, 70 women braved
the cold to join us for “Pizza In the Hut”. It
was an evening of nostalgia, music, dancing,
BINGO and lots of laughter with our special
guest speaker, Benjamin Hackman. I want to thank my
co-chairs, Brenda Lass, Francine Goldrich, and Raquel
Benmergui for organizing the event and making sure
everyone was fed and had a lot of fun. I also want to thank
my wonderful committee: Amanda Eisenstadt, Beth Singer,
Carol Handelman, Lily Steinberg and Judy Laxer for helping
with décor. A very special thank you goes to Shayla Brudner
for purchasing gifts, helping on the day of and just being a
wonderful support. Of course, I cannot forget our office staff
who put up with a mountain of phone calls from me and
making sure everyone was taken care of.
In the New Year, the Sisterhood will be bringing back
the “Bubbie and Me” program. Last year, our junior Picassos
had fun making beaded bags with Emily Hershtal and Judith
Roth. Our favourite jewelry maker Shirley Schildkraut helped
the kids make bracelets. With the help of Brenda Lass and
Rochelle Diamond, the kids enjoyed painting on canvases.
Our Bubbies had fun drinking their cappuccino coffee and
eating donuts. If anyone knows a high school student
looking for volunteer opportunities, please contact the
office. We need volunteers to make this program a success.
We have some exciting events planned in the coming
months, including a talk by Penny Krowitz, Executive
Director, Act to End Violence Against Women, who will
katy korman
present “Domestic Violence 101.” This forum will be opened
to both men and women. I encourage everyone to join in
these wonderful programs and if you have some ideas for
Sisterhood programs, please contact me.
Recently, I was asked why the Sisterhood is charging
for their programs and can we really justify the need for the
Sisterhood. While we collect annual dues, our programs costs
exceed these amounts even as we work diligently to reduce
expenses. The monies collected also go towards subsidizing
events that are not in Sisterhood projects. For example, this
year Sisterhood helped refurbish the Bride’s Room, which is
now a beautifully enhanced space.
The second question is easy to answer. There was no
Sisterhood in the shul for almost 10 years. Although there
were many programs and initiatives, very few were directed
to women. For many, this left a big void and a critical need.
When the new Board was formed, Joyce Eklove
approached me with the opportunity to become the President
of the Sisterhood. Initially, I hesitated, never dreaming of
taking on such a position, but I took the challenge. With my
incredible Committee we came up with ideas that brought
new life to the shul. In planning for the year, our Committee
made sure that every age group was included in what we
were doing. The response and participation, especially of the
younger generation has been overwhelming. The Sisterhood
has provided a new way for women to participate in the
shul – as wives and daughters, mothers and sisters, and
even bubbies.
11
rabbi grundland
I
once heard a lecture in which the Rabbi said that just
as animals hibernate in the winter time, we too should
go inward and use the winter as a time to “hibernate.”
We should use this time for introspection and try to
understand our own inner workings; to strive to improve
ourselves. I never found a source for his statement, but I
understood its value. In the years since, I think I have found
a source, which gives even greater depth to the teaching.
Yaakov Avinu faces many challenges throughout his
life. In Parshat Vayetzei, which falls at the beginning of the
winter, Yaakov is presented with one of his major challenges,
specifically regarding his wives, Leah and Rachel.
When the Torah describes the sisters, it says, “Leah’s eyes
were tender, but Rachel had beautiful features and a beautiful
complexion.” It is interesting to note the difference in how the
Torah describes them: the Torah comments only upon Leah’s
eyes, whereas regarding Rachel, it talks about her features in
general, as well as her complexion.
What is the difference between “tender eyes” and
“beautiful features”?
Features are immediately apparent. The “bombshell” that
walks into the room – she has great features. The moment
you see her, you know she is beautiful. The moment Yaakov
Avinu sees Rachel, he can’t help himself; Yaakov goes right
up to her, flexes some muscle by single-handedly uncovering
a well, feeds her flocks and kisses her.
Leah, though, has soft eyes. Her beauty is less apparent,
and can only be recognized when Yaakov takes the time to
look into her eyes. Only through an intimate, close encounter,
can her beauty be revealed.
What happens next is well known: Yaakov works for his
father-in-law-to-be, Lavan, for seven years in order to marry
Rachel. On the wedding day, Lavan pulls a switcheroo and
Yaakov ends up marrying Leah.
It is often asked, “How didn’t Yaakov know?” Various
answers are given, from Lavan getting Yaakov intoxicated at
the feast before the ceremony, to the lights being kept off,
or even a combination of both. Additionally, Rashi famously
explains that Rachel and Yaakov, suspecting a plot by Lavan,
arranged to have a sign between them. When the switch was
Awakening
Inner Life
made, Rachel had compassion on her sister and, in order to
spare Leah embarrassment, Rachel told Leah the sign.
What is most interesting though, is Yaakov’s reaction to
the switch. The Torah tells us “Morning came and it turned
out to be Leah”. Yaakov says to Lavan, “I worked for Rachel,
why did you trick me?” Why wasn’t Yaakov more upset about
the deception?
Rabbi Yaakov Leiner, in his Beit Yaakov Torah
commentary, explains that, according to Kabbalistic
teachings, Rachel and Leah represent two different levels
of consciousness within any given relationship. Rachel is
the conscious connection, and Leah is the unconscious
connection.
Before a marriage, people date and get to know each
other. They become conscious of the person whom they are
marrying and “fall in love”. This is something that is clearly
good, and they desire to pursue that connection. This is
“Rachel consciousness.”
Once a couple is married, they are privileged to see a side
of their partner which was totally invisible before - often one
that is not as outwardly beautiful as the “image” with which
they fell in love. This is “Leah consciousness.” It is something
that one may feel “tricked” into marrying. Indeed, the Torah
describes Leah as the “hated wife.” Often there are parts of
a person that are hidden. Many times those are things that
we wouldn’t like – and certainly wouldn’t marry, if we knew
about them.
We “fall in love” with Rachel consciousness, but in
the morning, ‫ – והנה היא לאה‬we are living with Leah
consciousness.
Yaakov Avinu understood that, even though he was
tricked into marrying Leah, she was meant to be his wife.
She was unexpected, and even less desirable than who and
what Yaakov was hoping for, but she was indeed his wife, and
they would have a long future together. Yaakov had fallen
in love with the beauty of Rachel, but he had gazed into the
tenderness of Leah’s eyes and saw that her beauty was much
deeper.
cont. on page 13
12
winter 2015 / 2016
Kiddush Committee
O
Francine goldrich and Amanda salem-eisenstat, kiddush sub-committee
f the approximately 250 kiddushes that take
place in our shul throughout the year, upstairs or
downstairs, big or small, lavish or regular, public
or private, Shabbat Mevorchim or holidays – we
have exciting news to share.
There was a real need to update our Kiddushim: change
the servingware, upgrade the food selection, and enhance the
presentation – all in keeping with our newly renovated space,
food variety / restrictions, and budget parameters. We now
have beautiful and permanent kiddush servingware which
we will use at our weekly kiddushes. This will significantly
reduce our consumption of disposables, i.e. styrofoam, paper
goods and containers. The use of round tables upstairs has
improved accessibility and flow. We have also purchased
table linens to complement our new décor, as well as some
floral / plant containers which we have used for certain
events. These new items are also available for rent for your
shul functions. We continue to select and add food items,
when possible, to enhance and complement our kiddushes.
It has been several months since we have implemented
these changes at the grand re-opening and we appreciate
your input, support, and commitment in your feedback and
sponsorships.
Thank you to the House Committee members, and to
our Executive Director Nicole Toledano, Miriam Price and
the rest of the office staff for your help and guidance.
A very special thank you to Jay Stochinsky, our member,
who was responsible for toivelling over 300 new serving
pieces.
We hope you are enjoying the upgraded kiddushes in our
new beautiful surroundings. Your generosity and continued
sponsorship make this possible. Please direct your questions
regarding kiddushes and sponsorship opportunities to
Miriam in our shul office.
cont. from page 12
Leah is the mother of six of Yaakov’s twelve sons. It is
her offspring who have served as the pinnacle of our national
past, present and future:
• Moshe Rabbeinu – who took us out of Egypt, received the
Torah from HaShem, was the humblest of all people, had a
face-to-face relationship with HaShem, and turned us into
the nation we are today – was from the tribe of Levi – a
son of Leah;
• King David, the King who understood the importance of
building the Beit HaMikdash as a permanent structure,
who wrote the Tehillim which are the foundation of
our prayers, who cried over his desire to have a deep
relationship with HaShem, was from the tribe of Yehudah
– a son of Leah;
• The Mashiach will be from the line of David, and thus,
ultimately the redemption comes from the side of Leah.
It is through truly embracing everything unexpected
within life, all the surprises which are thrown at us and
making the best of it, that we discover the source of Mashiach.
We all face different challenges. Winter, when the trees
look dead and less beautiful, when there is snow on the
ground, and everything looks less alive, is a perfect time
to look for hidden beauty. It is a time to look at ourselves
and recognize both our strengths, and those things which
need strengthening. By taking this opportunity, each of us
can come to embrace the different roles of Leah and Rachel
in our lives and relationships, and work toward building a
world worthy of Mashiach.
13
T
Marketing Committee
carole Freeman and rachel libman
he Marketing Committee continues to focus on its
core mandate: membership retention, membership
acquisition, and support of other committees.
Last year, we were still immersed in the renovation and
rebuilding initiatives. Committee members worked hard
at promoting our synagogue’s new look, new website and
unique programming.
Now that this has been accomplished successfully, it is
time to move on to our next phase of marketing. This phase
will focus not on “the building” per se, but what is going on
“inside the building” with the “people” who make it such a
special place.
We want to showcase what is going on in our shul, who
are the people who frequent it, and what are they all about?
A perfect example of this strategy was the photo gallery
of Rabbi Cheses’ India trip which is showcased in the lower
level hallway. We want to continue to bring our stories to
the forefront, and highlight what we we have accomplished.
This will instill a greater sense of community and friendship.
Please share your experiences with us. We look forward to
hearing from you.
Let’s make our shul warm and hospitable
We are looking for members who can host young singles, new members or visitors for Shabbat and
Yom Tov meals. We would like to make sure that every person who comes to our shul has a place to go.
If you are interested, please email or call the shul office.
14
winter 2015 / 2016
Jacob Posluns
youth director
Youth Matters
W
hat an amazing start of the year this has been!
After my first kickoff Shabbat and my first round
of Chagim as youth director, I have realized how
extraordinary our program is. We have a very strong mixture
of learning and fun.
The youth participants are enthusiastic, and the number
of children who have been coming out is very encouraging.
Of course, we can always make room for more, so feel free
to invite your children’s friends, neighbours, and relatives
to come and participate in our Shabbat activities! We have
some very special programming planned for the winter.
Our youth team has established several new initiatives.
Just as an example, our new birthday club has been well
received by the children in the program. We invite a special
entertainer each month to celebrate each of the children
who have birthdays in that particular month. This has led to
more commitment and enthusiasm from the kids who come
out on a regular basis. No one wants to miss their birthday
celebration at shul!
We have many things to be proud of, but first and
foremost is that the kids are having fun and learning more
about Judaism.
We are now in the planning stages for Purim, Pesach,
and Shavuot. Exciting programming will be in place for all
of the upcoming holidays. The programs will include special
editions of Jewnior Games, new treats, and cool prizes to be
won with our new incentive programming.
We are enjoying the youth program tremendously, and
know that your children are too. From the nunber of smiles
and high fives we receive every Shabbat, we know we are on
the right track! I am very grateful and whole heartedly thank
our Assistant Youth Director Noa Bordan, as well as the head
of nursery, Debra Posluns.
Contact Joshua Forth
(289) 314 2043
[email protected]
getsetgoathletics.com
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15
T
2015-2016
Bat Mitzvah Program
avital strauchler
he 2015/2016 Bat Mitzvah Program has officially
begun. The Bat Mitzvah girls have brought their
energy, knowledge and excitement for learning.
Together, we have created an environment where Torah and
Chessed are intriguing and enjoyable.
Our program has focused on leadership through textbased stories of female leaders in Tanach and the Talmud,
taught by Avital Strauchler and Sarah Cheses. We discussed
what it means to be a leader and about seeing a need and
stepping up.
Kitty Wintrob, author of the memoir “I’m Not Going
Back,” taught us what it meant to be a child evacuee in
England during WWII. She recounted her memories as a
16
winter 2015 / 2016
determined young girl who stood up when she felt she was
wronged and discovered ways to find joy in difficult times.
We painted alongside the residents of Baycrest under the
direction of Brenda Lass. This intergenerational session has
always been a highlight of our program.
Other sessions included a discussion with Jodi Katzeff
on self-esteem. We discussed the relative importance of
external appearances and how media distorts our values.
For some physical fun, we enjoyed a session of Krav Maga
with Bella Motzen. We are all looking forward to the sessions
ahead which will focus on social activism, tzedaka, chessed
and more Torah study.
2015
Bar Mitzvah Program
T
he 2015 Shaarei Shomayim
Bar Mitzvah Program has had
an amazing year. Starting in
October, the boys learned about Tefillah
and Tefillin. They joined their fathers
for Sunday morning minyan and then
had a delicious breakfast followed by
a study session. One week, a scribe
taught the boys all the processes for
making Tefillin. Another week, Rabbi
Cheses taught the boys how to tie their
own tzizit.
The next part of the program took
place on Motzei Shabbat, when the boys
enjoyed a special Q&A session with
Rabbi Strauchler, and in subsequent
weeks joined with their parents to learn
about how Jewish values intersect with
competition and good sportsmanship.
Each learning session concluded with
fresh pizza!
The last unit focused on Chessed.
The boys were joined by members of
DANI to enjoy a dinner made by DANI
catering. They made sandwiches for
the Ve’Ahavta homeless van. Each boy,
together with a parent, filled one shift
(6pm to 12am) on the van to distribute
various goods to the homeless
population of Toronto. Together with
the Bat Mitzvah group, the boys planned
and organized a special “Chanukah
and Chessed” event which brought
the community together to partake in
various social justice projects.
The program included some fun
social activities, like a Friday night one,
and a Raptors game. The concluding
event was a Shabbat dinner in which
all the boys and their parents reflected
on their experiences and shared about
what it means to them to be entering a
new stage in their Jewish Journey.
17
E
AT S H A A R E I
D
E
H
ET
V
SA
S H O M AY I M & A L E H C A N A D A
- P R E S E N T-
RABBI LORD
JONATHAN SACKS
N OT I N G O D ’ S N A M E :
CONFRONTING RELIGIOUS VIOLENCE
MARCH 16, 2016
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM CONGREGATION
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JOIN US
Thursday March 24, 2016
Shaarei Tefillah
3600 Bathurst Street
18
winter 2015 / 2016
richmond
kosher bakery
Religious
Committee Update
Hyim Bessin and larry zimmerman
S
Specializing in •
Organic Breads
Gluten Free Products
Sugar Free Products
Wedding Cakes
Special Occasion Cakes
Picture Cakes
•
ince our last Religious Committee
update in the previous Shul
bulletin, the Religious Committee
has updated and passed a Gabbai Policy
document as well as planned for the
Yamim Noraim and Chagim.
The Shul conducted its annual
survey following the High Holidays
and Sukkot / Simchat Torah, and we
would like to share some of the results
with you.
The survey revealed that, once
again, the areas of strength are people
feeling welcome as they enter Shul as
well as the overall atmosphere of the
Shul environment. An area that requires
improvement is the overall decorum,
specifically in the Main Minyan.
We are pleased to report that, due
to specific feedback we received in last
year’s survey regarding Simchat Torah,
we were able to address some logistical
issues and distribution of Kibbudim
such that Simchat Torah was much
smoother and more efficient this year.
This is but one example of how your
feedback helps us improve year over
year.
The overall number of survey
respondents was only 127, which was
tied for our lowest response rate since
we began the survey in 2010. Next year,
please help the Shul improve by filling
out the quick survey that is sent to you
via email shortly after Simchat Torah.
Your comments are helpful to us.
A summary document of the
survey results can be accessed on our
website: www.shomayim.org.
More generally, if you have any
questions or suggestions about the
Religious Committee’s work, please feel
free to contact us anytime. We will be
pleased to hear from you!
Have an enjoyable winter.
Rabbi Yosef Zvi
Rimon at shaArei
shomayim
speaking on the
topic of “IDF and
the Ethics of War”
4119 BAthurst Street
Toronto
647-776-5995
23
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24
winter 2015 / 2016
Chanukah and Chessed Event
On the seventh night of Chanukah, Shaarei Shomayim hosted a very special evening. Shaarei Shomayim’s Youth
Program, Bar and Bat Mitzvah programs, and Bnei Akiva joined forces to create a unique Chanukah celebration. This
was a party with a purpose – to think about others by doing acts of chessed – loving kindness.
It was fantastic! Together, we made 360 sandwiches that our Bar Mitzvah program participants would deliver to the
homeless on Ve’Ahavta vans, later that week. Together, we collected and wrapped lots of gifts for Jewish Family and
Child Services. Together, we sorted huge piles of donated clothing, sending warm coats, jackets, sweaters and pants
to the homeless. Together, we packed boxes full of beautiful new and gently used baby and children’s clothing,
donated by our families, to benefit JF&CS.
Brenda Lass and Merav Gilboa, representing Baycrest, created a painting activity where children created Chanukah
cards. These cards were lovingly distributed to residents of Baycrest on the last day of Chanukah. Finally, for some
Chanukah fun, we decorated dreidel cookies, enjoyed pizza and sufganiyot, and danced to Chanukah music.
We look forward to developing this program in years to come to be able to truly celebrate Chanukah with the light
and the warmth of gemilut chasadim, acts of loving kindness. We look forward to more positive feedback from both
participants and beneficiaries, like the following:
“My granddaughters could not stop talking about [the Chanukah and Chesed program]. When their parents picked
them up this morning, they related all the mitzvoth that they were involved in. It is something that they will always
remember. When we left the shul we had a long talk about Chanukah and the meaning of mitzvoth. You provided
them with wonderful life lessons.”
25
The Shabbat Project with Rabbi Shlomo Katz
parent child
learning
26
winter 2015 / 2016
chanukah party at shaarei shomayim
Brotherhood
Buffalo Bills
Tailgating party
27
New Member Welcome Melavah Malka
The New Members Committee hosted about
fifty people at the Strauchler’s home for an
elegant Melaveh Malka. Participanted enjoyed
cocktails, good food and a light dessert. This
program welcomed our new members and
allowed them to connect to our lay leadership.
Joyce Eklove receives the senior
achievement award from the
ontario ministry of citizenship
Joyce Eklove of Toronto is a community leader,
active volunteer and dedicated president of
her synagogue. She recently helped oversee a
substantial renovation of the synagogue and the
accompanying fundraising efforts to support it.
She is also an outspoken advocate for vulnerable
women in her community.
28
winter 2015 / 2016
Holocaust Education Week Closing Night
Shaarei Shomayim is privileged to inaugurate the
The Walerstein Scholar Program allows the Shaarei Shomayim community to engage in ongoing learning with an
academic during the course of an entire year. The Walerstein Scholar will address our community over five times
during the course of a year on Shabbat and holidays, as well as establishing informal learning relationships within
our community.
The Walerstein Scholar for 5776 is Professor James Diamond. Professor Diamond is the Joseph & Wolf Lebovic
Chair-Jewish Studies at the University of Waterloo. He has published extensively on many topics of Jewish Studies.
Professor Diamond has an LLM in International Legal Studies from New York University and a PhD in Medieval
Jewish Thought from University of Toronto. He is the author of numerous articles and studies on Maimonides’
thought and exegesis. His latest book, Maimonides and the Shaping the Jewish Canon, was published in 2014.
Professor Diamond has already addressed the synagogue on October 3, Shabbat Chol Hamoed Sukkot and on
December 12, Shabbat Chanukah. His speeches on the topics, The Torah’s Jewish Sense of an Ending: A Yasher
Koyach to Moses and Choosing Life over Martyrdom: Chanukah’s Religion of Light were extremely well received. We
look forward to his next speech on March 19 entitled, The Spiritual Politics of Battling Amalek.
This exciting new program at Shaarei Shomayim is sponsored by David and Bernice Walerstein in memory of
David’s parents, Max and Sally Walerstein.
29
shinshinim
30
winter 2015 / 2016
Shinshinim
noa voss and yoni hadar
W
e are privileged to have
the opportunity to work
with, and be a part of, your
community. We’ve now been here for
three months, and have gotten to know
your community. We are starting to
learn your language. We want to use
this opportunity to introduce ourselves
on a deeper level and to share our goals
for this year with you.
Noa:
I have always found the way people
choose to introduce themselves very
interesting – what their word choices
are, and in what order they choose to
put them. So here’s what I have so far:
I am Noa Voss. Jewish. A proud first
generation Israeli. A Shinshinit at the
Jewish Agency of Toronto’s Federation,
working with Shaarei Shomayim,
Netivot, and Bnei Akiva.
When I say I’m “Jewish,” I mean
that I was born into a nation which has
been around for thousands of years. A
nation that, I believe, I would choose
to be a part of even if I hadn’t been
born into it. When I say I’m “a proud
first generation Israeli,” I mean that
my parents’ choice to make Aliyah by
themselves because of their belief in the
State of Israel is what has allowed me to
be here today. I am proud to call Israel
my home, and I realize the effect that it
has had on my development in life, and
the choices I make.
When I say I’m a “Shinshinit,” I
mean that I’m one of 98 high school
graduates who realize that their Jewish
identity and Israeli identity spread
outside the borders of Israel, and have
chosen to postpone their army service
in order to research and explore what
Zionism means today, and what role
we play in it. When I say I “work at
the Federation in Toronto,” it means
that I am a part of a group of 24 people
who integrate into the wide range of
communities which together create the
Jewish Community of Toronto. When I
say I’m “working with Netivot, Shaarei
Shomayim and Bnei Akiva,” I mean
that I seek to connect this individual
unique Orthodox community to the
greater mission of Israel Engagement
through me, Noa Vos.
Yoni:
‫מכל מלמדי השכלתי‬
A few months ago, I, Yoni Hadar,
would not have believed that when
I finished high school, I would fly to
Toronto for a year to be a Shinshin in
your community. Sometimes, I still
don’t believe that I’m here. I’m the
oldest grandson on both sides of my
family. I attended boarding school in
Ramat Hagolan. I like to talk a lot, and
I like to work with kids.
I like to discover new things. When
I say that I’m a “Shinshin,” it means
that I am a regular person who wants
to tell people my life story. The way to
do that is by videos, pictures, stories,
and most of all, to talk face to face and
to make a connection between Israel
and Canada; to make a relationship
between the communities – the people
and the Shinshinim. But that’s not all.
Another thing that is very important to
me as a Shinshin is to learn about your
community and to know your families,
your people, and your stories so that
when I return to Israel, I can share with
everyone at home what I’ve learned
about this community. So you are
my teachers! I think my mission is to
try to show you my story, and to get to
know yours.
We came here as a team and
have common goals. We have joined
the Teen Minyan and started a girls’
discussion group. Every week we
research and study the parsha and hot
topics in Israel in order to bring Israel
to the shul through our “Dvar Israel.”
We would love for you to share your
thoughts with us to create discussion
around the various topics. On a less
formal level, we join families for
Shabbat lunch every week where we
create personal connections and enjoy
great company and food.
Throughout the year, we each have
three families who will open their
homes to us. We are now moving to our
second host family. The Mills (Yoni’s
hosts) and the Fialkovs (Noa’s hosts)
taught us that one can have a home
away from home and gain new family
members.
This is just the beginning of our
journey together, may it be a successful
and meaningful one.
31
Gan Netivot Chanukah Sing-A-Long
Save the Date
Parshat Beshalach – January 23, 2016
Join the Or Chaim Student Acapella group
as they lead davening in the Sharp Sanctuary
32
winter 2015 / 2016
Netivot HaTorah
Day School
I
t has been a wonderful first
few months leading the staff at
Netivot HaTorah Day School.
We strive to inculcate our
students with a passion for
Torah, love for Israel and to develop
a deep commitment to Derech Eretz.
Our South Campus, housed here at
Shaarei Shomayim, is an integral part
of our institution. As one of the few
Jewish schools in the GTA which had
an increase in student enrollment this
year, our South Campus has played a
key role in this growth. With our prenursery and nursery classes full to
capacity, we have high hopes for the
future longevity of our South Campus.
This year, I have set five main goals
for our school:
1. Increased Commitment to
the Academic Program – Our school
prides itself on having an excellent
academic program in both General
and Jewish studies. Our staff continues
to refine our curriculum to meet the
standards set forth by the Ontario
Ministry of Education, as well as to fully
integrate our Tal Am, Chalav U’devash
and L’havin U’lehaskil curriculum in
Jewish Studies.
2. 21st Century Professional
Development for Staff – Our staff
is dedicated to the student body and
is always looking for ways to grow
as professionals. I have made it a
priority to spend appropriate funds
to help teachers attend high quality
conferences and workshops, employ
excellent consultants to work with
our staff, and to revitalize the inhouse
professional
development
opportunities for our staff. Thus far,
teachers have attended the iPad Summit
in Boston, the Quest conference in
Toronto, and later this year, the Florida
Educational Technology Conference
and the Association for Supervision and
Curriculum Development conferences.
3. Transparent Communication
with the Parent Body – I have taken
steps to make sure that our parents
are aware of everything that is going
on in school. In addition to weekly
emails from me, events are posted on
the school’s and my personal Facebook
page. A new school information system
is being integrated so that report cards,
re-registration, new student admission
applications and tuition contracts are
completed fully online. Every teacher
maintains a class website with up to
date information on topics that are
being covered in class, and identifying
what assignments are forthcoming. In
addition, our Gan teachers maintain
class blogs so they can share real time
pictures of all the amazing activities
that are going on in their classrooms.
4.
New
Commitment
to
Customer Service – Our entire staff
has undergone training by Dan Levine,
noted Day School expert in the areas of
Customer Service and Word-of-Mouth
Marketing. We are committed to giving
our parent body not only a top of the
line educational experience for their
children, but five star service as well.
Any parent who does not receive this
type of service is welcome to reach out
to me directly.
5. Increased Commitment to
Torah – Torah is the foundation for
everything Netivot does, but we work
to find new ways to emphasize the
study and commitment to Torah in our
students. This includes a revised Parsha
program for students, modifications
to our Middle School schedule so that
Mincha can be recited as one unified
group. I have also begun to offer shiurim
to our parent body, both during the day
and in the evening. If you have not yet
joined us for one of these shiurim, I
invite you to join us. In addition, Rabbi
Diamond, Rabbi Kadoch and I each
share weekly divrei Torah on the parsha
with the entire school community. Go
to http://thoughtparsha.blogspot.ca/
to follow my weekly Thought on the
Parsha.
It is an exciting time to be part of
Netivot HaTorah! We are accepting
new student applications. I invite you
to come visit our school and consider
allowing us to educate and care for your
children. I would love to meet with you
personally to help you decide if Netivot
is the right match for your family.
Please feel free to reach out to me
at any time at [email protected].
All the best,
Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman
Head of School
Netivot HaTorah Day School
33
Union Street Renamed
Benny Stark Street
F
amily of the late Benny Stark and the general public attended the ceremonial unveiling of Benny Stark Street
Tuesday, October 27, 2015. The ceremony was held at the north east corner of Tumberry Avenue and Union
Street.
The late Mr. Benny Stark was a holocaust survivor who emigrated to Canada back in 1953. He worked multiple
jobs to survive and provide for his family.
In 1959, Mr. Stark opened his own scrap yard on Maria Street in the Dundas / Runnymede area. The business
ultimately became a substantial operation, and subsequently relocated to Union Street. After many years, and with
his son Stephen joining the business, the Starks acquired neighbouring properties and ended up owning both sides
of Union Street between Tumberry Avenue and the end of the Union street. Collectively, they made Stark Iron and
Metal and Stark Auto Sales, one of the most successful and recognized businesses in Toronto.
Over the years, Benny Stark remained a good corporate neighbour in the community overall, and fought
valiantly for the retention of employment lands within the local neighbourhood. Benny’s vision, coupled with his
vast knowledge and experience, helped transform a scrap metal yard into an innovative business within the car
industry. The industrial community within the neighbourhood is in support of renaming Union Street, between
Tumberry Avenue and the end of the street to “Benny Stark Street”.
Stephen Stark, son of the late Benny Stark says, “This sign will provide a lasting legacy and help to remember my
father’s commitment to his beloved community”.
“Considering Mr. Stark’s contribution to the local Davenport neighbourhood and business communities, I
strongly believe it is the most appropriate time that he be recognized by designating the section of Union Street
“Benny Stark Street”, says Councillor Cesar Palacio.
Benny Starkz”l was a long-time volunteer and leader of Shaarei Shomayim serving as Building Chair for decades.
He is the only person to be awarded the title “Honorary President” in our shul’s history. He was a dear friend to
many in our community. All of us at Shaarei Shomayim join the Stark family in taking special nachas in Benny’s
well-deserved honour.
34
winter 2015 / 2016
Family News
from july 26, 2015 to
We wish Mazal Tov to the following:
november 28, 2015
Births
Meyer Zeifman on the birth of a great
grandson, born to Nir and Eliza David in
Israel. Thrilled grandparents are JEFFREY
and BERYL ZEIFMAN and Moshe and Emina
David.
JOHN and LORI ULMER and Renee Unterman
on the birth of a grandson, Gavriel Moshe,
born to Eitan and Nava Ulmer. Excited
aunts and uncles are: DAVID and CHANTAL
ULMER, ILAN and STEPHANIE ULMER, SETH
and DANIELLA GREENSPAN, Rabbi Effy and
Rivkie Unterman and Isaac and Tiffy Naggar.
Thrilled great grandmother is Luba Tamari.
ELLEN and STANLEY MARKIN, Harriet De
Koven and Charlie Bigenwald on the birth of
a granddaughter, born to Rachel and Shael
Markin. Proud great-grandparents are Libby
and Harry Kraft. Excited uncles and aunts are
Daniel Markin, Leah and Joel Markin, and Ian
Bigenwald.
MICHAEL and FRANCINE GOLDRICH and
Sinai and Malya Bobrowsky on the birth of
a grandson, Moshe Yosef, born to Yechiel
and Lana Bobrowsky. Excited siblings are
Naomi and Ari Bobrowsky. Proud great
grandparents are PEARL GOLDRICH, David
Alloul, Lillian Bobrowsky and Rabbi Sholom
Dovber and Chaya Popack.
SIMHA and NELLY MENDELSOHN and
Martin Rudnick on the birth of a grandson,
Dov Chaim, born to Samuel and Jennifer
Mendelsohn. Excited aunts and uncles are
Daniel and Jessica Mendelsohn and Elan
Mendelsohn.
YEDIDIA and MIRIAM KOSCHITZKY on the
birth of a daughter, Libby Lina. Excited sister
is Riva. Thrilled grandparents are Alan and
Judith Sacks of Jerusalem, Israel, and Joel
Koschitzky of Ramat Gan, Israel. Excited
great grandparents are SAUL and MIRA
KOSCHITZKY, Dr. Hilde Cohen of London,
England, and Joey and Annette Colton of
Montreal.
IVAN and MIRIAM KOVAL and Rabbi
David and Mina Sapirman on the birth of a
grandson, Gavriel Asher, born to Vivian and
Chaim Sapirman. Excited siblings are Azriel,
Michaela and Adira.
GEORGE and ELLEN FANTUS and Dr. Murray
and Iris Katz on the birth of a granddaughter,
Sasha Rose, born to Daniel and Lindsay
Fantus.
ELLIOTT and BEVERLY LYONS on the birth
of their first granddaughter, born to Alon
and Mazal Lyons in Beersheva, Israel.
MARK NUSBAUM, and Howard and Barbara
Pomper on the birth of a great grandchild,
Zechariah Yoseph Pomper, son of Avi and
Ariela Pomper. Delighted grandparents are
Dr. Mark and Suzy Pomper and Dr. Eli and
Breindi Zuker. Lovingly remembered at this
time is Edith Nusbaumz”l.
RENEE COHEN on the birth of two
granddaughters, Shoshana and Elyshaya.
RABBI ELLIOTT and ROCHELLE DIAMOND
and Hershy and Elaine Weinberg on the birth
of a granddaughter, Rivka Diamond, born to
Rabbi Avi and Sonia Diamond. Mazal Tov
to great grandmother Mrs. Adele Meister.
Excited siblings are Miri, Kayla, Yaakov, and
Zalman.
JOSEPH and SARAH KOVAL on the birth
of a son, Ben. Excited sister is Mia. Thrilled
grandparents are IVAN and MIRIAM Koval
and Michael and Lillian Rende. Excited great
grandmothers are Esther Serfaty and Eva
Rende.
AVIVA
ZIELENIEC
and
JONATHAN
GRAUMAN on the birth of a beautiful baby
boy, Benyamin Chanoch. Ecstatic big sister is
Leah Zahava Tova. Thrilled grandparents are
ATTA and HENRY ZIELENIEC, and Erika and
Yossi Grauman.
PAULA and ARNIE DUBROW on the birth
in Israel of twin great grandchildren, a girl,
Meital Shir and a boy, Nadav Michael. Proud
parents are Eliora and Daniel Richler. Excited
big brother is Ori. Grandparents are Lainie
and Shmarya Richler, and Kenny and Rachel
Cohen of Efrat.
RAFFI and NAOMI PELEG on the birth of a
son, Gabriel Moshe. Proud grandparents are
Yossi and Judy Peleg, and Bill and Marilyn
Sklar. Thrilled great grandparents are Bertha
Sklar and Eva Kalocsan (Mima).
AARON and JACKIE ORZECH on the birth of
a son, Coby Marcus. Excited sister is Madison.
Proud grandparents are GARY and FERN
ORZECH, and Robert and Gloria Bielak, and
proud great grandmother is Marsha Bielak.
Thrilled aunts and uncles are ILAN and
REBECCA BERGEL, Josh and Yael Orzech,
NATANEL and RACHEL PHILOSOPHE, and
Leslie Bielak. Mazal Tov to all the cousins.
CARL and SHERA SMITH on the birth of
a daughter, Liv Sofia. Excited brother is
Samuel. Thrilled grandparents are HENRY
and SUSYN SMITH, Moishe Greenbaum, and
Esther Greenbaum.
JOE and GLORY GOLDMAN and Morris
and Nicole Anidjar on the birth of a
granddaughter, Maya Shayna, born to Brian
and Amanda Anidjar. Thrilled big brother is
Jacob.
ADIR and ELIANNE KOSCHITZKY on the
birth of a daughter, SELAH AVIGAYIL. Proud
grandparents are David and Wendy Friend,
and David and Sarena Koschitzky. Mazal
Tov to her great grandparents Henry and
Julie Koschitzky and to SAUL and MIRA
KOSCHITZKY.
ADAM JACKSON and NADINE WALDMAN
on the birth of a daughter, Naomi. Thrilled
grandparents are William and Lise Waldman
and David and Karen Jackson. Excited great
grandparents are Saul and Esther Schwartz.
PAUL BROWN, Carol Brown, and Dr. Irvin
and Anita Bromberg on the naming of their
granddaughter, Ayla, and the bris of their
grandson, Erez. Mazal Tov to parents Rudy
and Batya Bromberg and siblings Etta and
Hillel.
STEPHEN and JANICE HALPERN on the birth
of a granddaughter, Aya Yocheved, born to
Moshe and Danielle Halpern in Be’er Sheva.
GRAHAM
TUGETMAN
and
ALANA
ZEIFMAN-TUGETMAN on the birth of a son,
Asher Yehudah Gavriel. Proud brother is
Yonatan Shimshon. Excited grandparents
are JEFFREY and BERYL ZEIFMAN. Thrilled
great-grandfather is MEYER ZEIFMAN.
NETANEL and SHANA MORI on the birth of
a daughter, Arielle Yona. Excited big sister is
Lia.
LORNE and YAFFA FACTOR and Louis
and Lynne Pillemer on the birth of a
granddaughter, Michal Dina, born to Lorne
and Carly Pillemer. Ecstatic aunt and uncles
are MELISSA FACTOR, ETHAN FACTOR, Lee
Pillemer, and Jacob Pillemer. Proud great
grandparents are ROSE FACTOR, Pesach
and Gloria Halberstadt, and Raymond and
Brenda Pillemer.
ROZ FINE on the birth of a grandson, Joseph,
born to Nowell and Shauna Fine in Calgary.
Excited siblings are Mia, Jacob, and Hannah.
35
bar / bat mitzvah
JOSEPH STARKMAN and MELISSA JOSEPH
on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, NATHAN.
Proud grandparents are Marsha Joseph
and Sylvia Starkman. Thrilled siblings are
Rebecca and Danielle.
TIM and ROBIN GOFINE and FAMILY, and Mal
Coven on the Bar Mitzvah of their nephew
and grandson, Isaac Coven. Proud parents
are David and Victoria Coven. Excited
siblings are Sam, Pearl and Ruby Coven.
ARNIE and DRAISA FRISCHMAN and
Lorraine and Harold Langer on the Bar
Mitzvah of their grandson, Matty Langer,
son of Michael and Carole Langer. Excited
siblings are JJ and Emmy.
STAN and MIRIAM PRICE on the bar mitzvah
of their grandson, Jack Price, son of David
Price and Amy Kamin-Price. Excited sister is
Maya.
MINDY GREEN on the Bat Mitzvah of her
great granddaughter, Divi, daughter of Rabbi
Elazer and Shira Green of Lancaster, PA.
engagements
STEPHEN and BLIMA DREEZER on the
engagement of their daughter, REBECCA, to
JOEL FRIEDMAN, son of Aubrey Friedman
and Darlene Throop. Excited siblings are
HARRIET and PAUL GREENWOOD and
family, Charles Dreezer, Aaron and Danielle
Friedman, and Alysha Friedman.
LOUIS and RISA VANDERSLUIS on the
engagement of their son, DANIEL, to
STACEY BRENER, daughter of Judy and
David Brener. Proud siblings are Jonathan,
Avi and Maddie, and Eli Vandersluis, Yona
and Adam Solomon, and Eric and Shiran,
and Debbie Brener. Proud grandparents are
Helen Parker, Esther and Ed Vandersluis, and
Rose Rozansky.
MICKEY and AURELIA OSTRO on the
engagement of their son, JONATHAN to
TSIONA TASPAY, daughter of Tzila and
Shalom Taspay of Kiryat Gat. Thrilled
grandmother is CELIA OSTRO. Delighted
siblings are Daniel and Reena Ostro, Eitan
Ostro, Sharron, Tal, Nava, Smadar, and
Bracha Taspay. Excited nephews are Adriel
and Aiden Ostro.
RAYMOND and FELICITY STONE on the
engagement of their daughter, CARLY to
JEFFREY MIKELBERG, son of Jules and Janis
Mikelberg. Excited siblings are Jason and
Ricki Stone, and Alissa Mikelberg.
36
BRIAN and ROBBIE SCHWARTZ on the
engagement of their daughter, SHIRA
to NESANEL son of Jerry and Madelaine
Greenberg. Excited siblings are Rabbi Shmuel
and Elana Soroka, Rabbi Ryan and Naomi
Spodek, Moshe Schwartz and Maya Nadel,
Rabbi Benyamin and Michaella Rapaport,
Elisha and Shifra Greenberg, Rahma and
Arieh Bloom, and Emmanuel and Gemma
Greenberg. Thrilled grandmothers are Lyla
Schwartz and Mozelle Kanner.
RUTH PODESWA on the engagement of her
granddaughter, Shawna Seligman, daughter
of Jamie and Debbie Seligman, to Dave
Mecklinger, son of Al and Elise Mecklinger.
marriages
ELAN PRATZER and MALKA LEWITTES
on the marriage of their daughter, AVIVA
to MATTHEW RENICK, son of Steven and
Jeanne Renick. Ecstatic siblings are ARIELLA
and NOAM PRATZER and Jennifer Renick.
Thrilled grandparents are Isy and Ida Pratzer,
Betty Cohen, David Lewittes and Claire
Reinhardt.
ANDREW NEUMAN and Jeff and Rozy Plant
on the marriage of their children, ANNA and
ERIC. Proud grandmother is Clara Neuman.
IAN and PAM ROSMARIN on the marriage
of their son, JEREMY to LEORE ZIMNER,
daughter of Tammi and Joe Zimner.
LORRAINE and LARRYz”l NATHANSON and
IRVING and LILz”l REISS on the marriage of
their granddaughter, GAVRIELLA MEIRA
(Gabi), daughter of Allan and Greta Reiss, to
YAAKOV FREEDMAN, son of David and Ellen
Freedman of Vancouver. Excited siblings are
Aylana and Shua Mandel and their daughter
Lia, Nomi Reiss, Yonatan and Ahuva Reiss,
Ayelet Reiss, Teddy Freedman, and Andy
and Shantal Freedman.
JACK and HELEN FRIEDMAN on the
wedding of their granddaughter, Rachel
Brown, daughter of Susan Friedman and
Edward Brown, to Michael Leinwand, son of
Sam and Marian Leinwand, and grandson of
Olga Havas.
SHERRI SILVER and HANANEL ROMER
SEGAL on their marriage. Thrilled parents
are BONNY SILVER, and Eliezer Segal and
Agi Romer Segal. Proud grandmother is
Irene Romer. Ecstatic siblings are JEFFERY
and DANIELLA SILVER, JEREMY and TALYA
SILVER, Yannai and Marina Segal, and Akiva
Romer-Segal. Lovingly remembered at this
time is Avrom Silverz”l.
winter 2015 / 2016
IES and RUTH van MESSEL on the marriage
of their granddaughter Elkie van Messel,
daughter of Samuel and Nechama van
Messel, to Dovid Ferguson, son of Reuvain
Ferguson and Trudy Farber.
MURRAY GREENBERG on the marriage of
his grandson, Matthew Goldberg, son of
Larry and Shari Goldberg, to Jackie Rose,
daughter of Perry Rose and Brenda Rose.
PETER and ADRIANNE KLEMENSBERG
on the marriage of their daughter, AVA,
to NAPHTALI SILVERMAN, son of Murray
and Susan Silverman of Thornhill. Proud
grandparents are Mrs. Edit Galfi and Dr.
Henry and Helen Cohen.
anniversaries and birthdays
MAZAL TOV to RALPH ETIGSON, on his
100th Birthday.
Mazal Tov to LINDA CRAIG on winning Supply
Chain Management Association Ontario’s 2015
Volunteer Award for Outstanding Contribution
to the Supply Chain Industry.
Shaarei Shomayim extends to RUBY EZEKIEL,
our long-time member, best wishes for good
health and success as she moves to her new
home.
Shaarei Shomayim joins the family of BENNY
STARKz”l in celebrating the renaming of “Union
Street” to “Benny Stark Street” by the City of
Toronto.
Mazal Tov to JOYCE EKLOVE on receiving the
Senior Achievement Award from the Ontario
Ministry of Citizenship, Immigration and
International Trade. Joyce is one of only 20
recipients in the Province of Ontario.
condolences to
MAZAL TOV to Dr. MARK NUSBAUM on
his birthday.
DALYA and FAROKH HAKIMI, on the passing
of Dalya’s mother, Fredda Grosserz”l.
MAZAL TOV to GORD STEINBERG on his
special birthday.
BERNICE and DAVID WALERSTEIN, Rose
and Norman Lipson, Sandy and Loren Novak,
and Felicia and Lorne Fine, and families on
the loss of their father, father-in-law, and
grandfather, Gordon Gopinz”l.
MAZAL TOV to SOL NAYMAN on his 80th
birthday!
MAZAL TOV to ELLIOT BIRNBOIM on his
birthday.
MAZAL TOV to TOBE TWEYMAN on her
birthday.
special announcements
Tzeitchem l’Shalom to YONA and LIORA
AMITAI who are returning to Israel. It was
wonderful having you in our community.
Tzeitchem l’Shalom and Hatzlacha Rabbah to
ASHLEY OFFEINHEIM, daughter of LINDA and
STEPHEN OFFENHEIM, who made aliya and
will be serving in the IDF.
Sybil Levine, Esther and David, Karen Levine,
and families on the loss of their husband,
father, father-in-law, grandfather and great
grandfather, MYER SAMUEL LEVINEz”l
(former member) in Israel.
Family of RUTH SOMERSz”l on her passing.
Henry Sherman and ETHEL LAMSTER on
the passing of their wife and sister, Saundra
Shermanz”l.
David Zacks, JOY and MARK KOPLOWITZ,
STEPHEN and HESHY ALTBAUM, Donna
Cohen and Lorne Greenspan, Brent and
Nadine Zacks, Jeremy and Jennifer Zacks
on the loss of their wife, sister, mother and
mother-in-law, Susie Zacksz”l.
HENRY RAKOWSKI, Joe Kuperhause, Harry
and Elaine Rakowski, and David and Shanea
Rakowski on the passing of their wife,
sister, mother and mother-in-law, GENIA
RAKOWSKIz”l.
NAOMI FREUDMANN, Sharona (Emilio), Yael,
Tamar, Mickey (Rachel), and Joey (Vera) on
the passing of their husband, father, fatherin-law, and brother, DAVID FREUDMANNz”l.
DONNA STARKMAN SHIFF and RANDY
SHIFF and family on the passing of Donna’s
brother, Joel Howard Starkmanz”l.
Solange Toledano, Jeff and Nicole
Toledano, Lydia and Chuck English,
Simone and Eddy Goldberg, David Toledano
and families on the loss of their husband,
father, father-in-law, grandfather and great
grandfather, Charles Toledanoz”l.
RICK and LAURA ORZY and family on the
passing of Laura’s father, Aubrey Behrmanz”l.
LINDA LEVENSTEIN and family on the
passing of her sister, Ruth Frankel-Granerz”l.
RABBI NOAH and SARAH CHESES and family
on the passing of Sarah’s grandmother,
Candy Davidsonz”l.
MEYER ZEIFMAN, Stephen (Sarah) Zeifman,
Carolyn (David) Cronenberg, Dianne
Zeifman, Lilly (Jaicky) Tammam, Blanch
Beube, Brian (Jennifer) Beube, and Ian
Beube on the passing of their brother,
father, father-in-law and step-father, LOUIS
ZEIFMANz”l.
BARBARA OUAONOUNOU and AVROM
BROWN and Family on the passing of
Barbara’s mother, Frances Friedmanz”l.
AVIS and ROBBIE OSHER and family on
the passing of Avis’ brother, Charles David
Burdez”l.
To the family of GERTRUDE NOBLEz”l on her
passing.
Tzeitchem l’Shalom to the following members
who will be leaving for a year of study in Israel:
YAKIRA BEGUN, ZOE NADLER, SARA ALLICE,
BLIMI ALLICE, GEOFFREY HANDELMAN and
JONAH MILLS.
Mazal Tov to Dr. David Herbert, son of
PAUL HERBERT, on winning an award of
the Manitoba Medical Service Foundation
for his work with cyclic polymer scaffolds
for enhanced platinum chemotherapy drug
delivery.
Mazal Tov to OLIVER DANIEL, son of GARY and
ROBIN DANIEL, on becoming a Diller Scholar.
Mazal Tov to NICOLE MILLY SMITH, daughter
of ALLAN and MINDY SMITH on becoming a
Diller Scholar.
37
professionally we serve
specializing in pre-arrangements
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38
winter 2015 / 2016
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39
Dates to Remember
470 Glencairn Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5N 1V8
Telephone (416) 789-3213 • Fax (416) 789-1728
www.shomayim.org • E-mail [email protected]
OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Thursday..............................................8:30am - 5:00pm
Friday......................................................................... 8:30am - 2:00pm
Shabbat, Sunday.........................................................................Closed
WHO’S WHO
Rabbi...........................................................................Chaim Strauchler
Assistant Rabbi............................................................... Noah Cheses
Shamash / Baal Koreh..................................................Ralph Levine
Cantor.................................................................................. Zvi Katzman
Rabbi, Downstairs Minyan..................................... Elliott Diamond
President............................................................................Joyce Eklove
Executive Director................................................... Nicole Toledano
Youth Director...............................................................Jacob Posluns
Bulletin Contributor...............................................Lawrence Savlov
DONATIONS
Capital Fund.........................................................................$18 and up
Library Fund.........................................................................$18 and up
Philip Zucker Torah Fund.................................................$18 and up
Phillip Wintrob Youth Fund............................................$18 and up
Rabbi’s Charity Fund.........................................................$18 and up
Volunteer Appreciation Fund........................................$18 and up
Beit Medrash Book Fund................................................$36 and up
Chessed Fund......................................................................$36 and up
Memorial Plaques..........................................................................$400
Tree of Life: Leaf.......................................................................... $1,800
Tree of Life: Stone...................................................................... $5,400
jan.11
Medical Halacha with Rabbi Torczyner:
Cosmetic Surgery: When Is It Justified?
jan.12
Volunteer Session at Harvest Food Bank
jan.16
Pray & Learn with Dr. Elliott Malamet
Jan.23
Shabbat Shira – Yeshivat Or Chaim A Capella performance
Jan.25
Tu B’Shevat
jan.25
Legal Halacha with Rabbi Torczyner:
Who Speaks for the Patient?
jan.31
St. John’s Ambulance Babysitting Course
feb.17
Young Rabbis Speak @ Shaarei Shomayim
feb.19Bnei Akiva Shabbaton
mar.5Shabbat Shekalim
mar.7Limmud Toronto
mar.12Scholar in Residence: Guila Benchimol
mar.14Medical Halacha with Rabbi Torczyner:
Dental Emergencies on Shabbat
mar.16Guest Lecturer: Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks
mar.19Parshat Zachor
Mar.19
Walerstein Scholar: Professor James Diamond
mar.20Speaker: Amtoz Eyal from Tatzpit:
Media Bias in Israel News Reporting
SPONSORSHIPS
Regular Shabbat Kiddush.........................................................$780*
Shabbat Mevorchim Kiddush.................................................$1,100*
Downstairs Minyan Kiddush.......................................................$275
Hashkama Minyan Kiddush.......................................................$200
Seudah Shlishit...............................................................................$200
Teen Minyan Kiddush...................................................................$200
Chessed Fund Sponsor a Meal.................................................... $72
Flowers for the Sanctuary.............................call for more details
Youth Kiddush....................................................................................$54
Weekday Breakfast: per day........................................................ $72
Weekday Breakfast: per week.................................................. $250
*Partial sponsorships available........................... starting at $195
mar.23Ta’anit Esther
To make a donation or arrange for a sponsorship, please call
the shul office or go to www.shomayim.org. Tax receipts will
be issued.
apr.25-28Chol HaMoed Pesach
mar.24Purim
mar.25Shushan Purim
apr.2Parshat Parah
apr.2
Scholar in Residence: Rabbi Alex Israel
apr.16Shabbat HaGadol – Rabbi’s Drasha
apr.22Erev Pesach
apr.23-24Pesach I and II
apr.28Erev Chag
apr.29-30Pesach VII and VIII
ENDOWMENTS
Endowment funds can be set up to suit your individual
requirements. For further information, please contact the
shul office.
apr.29Shir HaShirim

Winter 2015-2016 - Shaarei Shomayim

Transcription

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