Winter 2015-2016 - Shaarei Shomayim
Transcription
Winter 2015-2016 - Shaarei Shomayim
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. 4 winter 2015 / 2016 do you receive rabbi strauchler’s weekly torah for your life emails? If not, please contact the shul office to be included in the email list. Or you can visit our Shaarei Shomayim website at www.shomayim.org and click on “join email list”. 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 tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. we’re here to serve you better! Did you know that you can now make donations, sponsor kiddushim / breakfasts, make a payment on your account, etc. online – right from our website, anytime you want! Donate Shomayim.org/donate Sponsor Shomayim.org/sponsor Make a payment on account Shomayim.org/pay-bills 6 winter 2015 / 2016 T. 905.761.9022 F. 905.761.9023 [email protected] Exclusive Agents Representing Wines From 9 Countries Argentina | Australia Chile | France | Israel Italy | Portugal South Africa | Spain rabbi elliott diamond downstairs minyan 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 Compliments of GESMA PRINTING 905-764-6017 [email protected] 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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 tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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 COR PizzaCafé Pat Israel • Halov Israel Catering Available 3774 Bathurst St. Toronto, ON M5H 3M6 Tel: 416-633-5678 • www.pizzacafe.ca tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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 470 GLENCAIRN AVENUE SAVE THE DATE FOR THE ULTIMATE ISRAELI PURIM SEUDAH Shaarei Shomayim and Shaarei Tefillah are Partnering for the Perfect Purim Suedah! 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 tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 23 Menchens Catering CULINARY ENGINEERS Innovative. Eclectic. Extraordinary Exclusivity at Terrace Banquet Centre Embassy Grand Shaarei Shomayim Congregation Various banquet halls in Toronto Customized creative menu planning with our artistic team of chefs Phone: 416.638.8381 Email: [email protected] Web: www.menchens.ca COR 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.” tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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 tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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 tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 37 professionally we serve specializing in pre-arrangements 905-881-6003 | www.steeles.org professionally we care 38 winter 2015 / 2016 Associated Hebrew Schools of Toronto – Tours Ad | Adath Israel – 7.5”w x 10.25”h | October 2015 EXCITING PLANS TO OPEN JK AT OUR CEDARVALE CAMPUS 2016/17 our e-brochure at VIEW www.ThisIsAssociated.com Associated Cedarvale Posluns Education Centre (Pre-Nursery to JK) Beth Sholom Synagogue 1445 Eglinton Ave. W. –––––––––––– (Nursery to Grade 5) 18 Neptune Dr. –––––––––––– Kamin Education Centre Hurwich Education Centre Danilack Middle School (Pre-Nursery to Grade 5) 300 Atkinson Ave. (Grade 6 to 8) 252 Finch Ave. W. ASK US ABOUT : Free Busing North of Hwy 7 Tuition Support for JK/SK Schedule your visit today! Pearl Greenspan (South) Melissa Komlos (North) [email protected] 905-889-3998 x 508 agreatschool.com Associated may be more affordable than you think! Talk to us about the many ways we can make Jewish education financially feasible. tevet-shevat-adar I-adar ii-nisan 5776 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