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6LGGXU 3LUFKHL .RGHVK 2QH JHQHUDWLRQ VKDOO DFFODLP <RXU ZRUN WR WKH QH[W DQG VKDOO WHOO RI <RXU PLJKW\ DFWV Âł 3VDOP 0RUH WKDQ \HDUV DJR the leadership of Holy Blossom Temple responded to a call for gender-inclusive prayer language in our Worship Services. This modest beginning grew into an immense project to revise and renew our prayer Services for almost every day of the Jewish calendar, reflecting the unique and changing character of our congregation. During our subsequent terms as Chairs of Worship, together with our rabbis and cantor, we articulated the vision of a new comprehensive siddur, especially for Holy Blossom Temple. A Siddur Committee was formed with Rabbi John Moscowitz, Rabbi Yael Splansky, Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner and ourselves. With great humility, we joined the generations of sages and scholars who have compiled and revised prayer Services for their communities for more than 2,000 years.

with those of the wider Jewish worship community. The Committee’s combined talents equipped us for the daunting task and years of work that followed. We brought our particular skills to the project: vision and creativity; close working knowledge of Reform liturgy; keen understanding of the culture of Holy Blossom Temple; a scholarly approach to Judaism, English and Hebrew language; and an abiding passion for excellence. As time went on, we learned at least as much as we contributed. Working with our learned rabbis and gifted cantor, we embarked on an exhilarating journey that became an integral part of our lives. We, the lay members of the Siddur Committee, also spent countless hours working together to meet the challenges of this project, and rapidly developed a strong and supportive friendship.

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It is an honour to participate in this Siddur renewal. The Siddur Project provided us with an extraordinary, personally enriching education. We are in sight of our goal — the beautiful Siddur Pirchei Kodesh. We are deeply moved and grateful for the opportunity to be partners in this sacred enterprise. — Randi Garfinkel and Brenda Saunders For more information on our new Siddur, contact Rabbi Yael Splansky at ysplansky@holyblossom.org.

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The Siddur Committee established several principles to guide our work: a gender-inclusive prayer language, a refined English translation as true as possible to the original Hebrew, an educational component and a balance of Reform and Holy Blossom traditions

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:LWK DOO WKH WDON RI *UHHQ isn’t it the case (as I heard said recently) that it’s all “white noise?� Aren’t we all a bit fatigued at hearing of the necessity of going green, of doing our part for the environment? Should we not give this a rest, important as it may be? & 5 8 & , $ / 0 $7 7 ( 5

Well, no. Tired or not, let’s not give it a rest. In fact, for all the white noise, this is a crucial matter from which we cannot avert our attention. Ensuring a healthy environment, a sustainable and responsible one within our build-

ing, is the privilege of us all: those of us who work in our building, as well as all members of our community, very much including those of the Leo Baeck Day School. 025( 72 '2

We have made progress to be sure. Last summer, we revamped our garbage collection program and by now have eliminated the use of Styrofoam and substantially reduced any use of plastics and paper. There is much more to do to get it right, but we will. We do all of this in significant response to the wisdom of our tradition — and for that see both Rabbi Karen Thomashow’s Last Word, “God is Green,� as well as Jeremy Benstein’s book, “The Way Into Judaism and the

Environment.� But it goes beyond the tradition, because it starts sooner rather than later — actually, now — with the work of our hands: the doing, the auditing, the educating, the changing of habits and thinking to ensure a healthy and responsible environment here. To that end, a new “Green Team� has assembled to lead this important endeavour. Rabbi Thomashow and I will work with our team, with our congregational community, beyond the white noise and the old habits, because as Rabbi Thomashow puts it, “God is Green; so are we to be.� For more information and to join us, please write Rabbi Thomashow: kthomashow@holyblossom.org.

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Monday to Friday at 7.30 a.m. Shacharit | Monday to Thursday at 6 p.m. Mincha | Sunday at 9 a.m. Shacharit 2Q 0RQ 0D\ 7KXU -XO\ DQG 0RQ $XJ 6KDFKDULW 6HUYLFHV ZLOO EH KHOG DW D P 6 + $ % % $7 6 ( 5 9 , & ( 6

Friday at 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat | Saturday at 10.30 a.m. Shabbat Morning and Family Shabbat Services

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Shavuot 2010/5770 — XE UX L Q LQ] Erev Shavuot Service | Tue. May 18, at 8 p.m. Tikkun Leil Shavuot | Tue. May 18, at 9 p.m.

A cheesecake reception and good coffee will make our learning together sweet. Rabbis John Moscowitz, Yael Splansky and Karen Thomashow will teach the Book of Ruth.

Shavuot and Yizkor Services | Wed. May 19, at 10 a.m.

Celebrate the installation of our restored Rose Window, our iconic face to the city. Baby Blessing — All babies born into the congregation in the last year will come to the bimah for a special blessing and welcome. During our congregational kiddush lunch, tours of our stained glass windows will give new insight into their history and symbolism. Creative children’s programming will be provided throughout the morning.

Holy Chag Shavuot | Wed. May 19, at 10 a.m.

Students in Senior Kindergarten to Grade 6 are invited to enjoy Shavuot tefillah, lunch, learning, art, music, games, festive snacks and goody bags! Cost: members $18; guests $36. To register, please call Lisa Isen Baumal (ext. 242), at the Temple. Students in Grades 7 to 12 may register to be counsellors for the day for community service hours.

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Temple Sinai Congregation, 210 Wilson Ave Join our sister-synagogues, Temple Sinai and Temple Emanu-El, as we prepare for the High Holy Days. The exquisite music will be led by the cantors and choirs of the three congregations, and reflective teachings will be offered by the congregations’ rabbis.

First Service Family Service Second Service Teen Service

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6 p.m. 6 p.m. 8.30 p.m.

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8.30 a.m. 9 a.m. 11.30 a.m. 11.30 a.m. 3.30 p.m. (for children five years old and younger)

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10 a.m. 4 p.m.

6 p.m. 6 p.m. 9 p.m. 9 p.m. (sponsored by HABSTY)

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9 a.m. 10 a.m. 11 a.m. (for 20 and 30 somethings) 11.30 a.m. 2 p.m. (for children five years old and younger) 3.30 p.m. Wed. Sept. 22, at 6 p.m. Thur. Sept. 23, at 10 a.m.

Shemini Atzeret

Erev Shemini Atzeret Wed. Sept. 29, at 6 p.m. Shemini Atzeret/Yizkor Thur. Sept. 30, at 10 a.m.

Simchat Torah ™ q…’�K p‚�‘K PM Consecration 6 p.m. Service and Celebration 7 p.m.

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%HDXWLI\LQJ %ULPOH\ 5RDG &HPHWHU\ 7KH %ULPOH\ 5RDG &HPHWHU\ in Scarborough is an important part of Holy Blossom. Over the last several years, the condition of the Cemetery has been less than optimal. This has been due to a number of factors, including a lack of necessary planning for the long term, staffing issues and, last year in particular, unexpectedly high levels of precipitation at a site that already has a high water table. The Temple is aware of these problems and has been working on solutions, both short and long term. Long-term problems cannot be fixed overnight, but steps are being taken for the benefit of those visiting the Cemetery now and those who will visit in the decades to come. , 0 3 5 2 9 , 1 * 7 + ( / $ 1 ' 6 & $ 3 (

In the short run, we have responded to concerns about staffing, and are now attending to regular fertilizing and grass seeding. The question of weed spraying

is always controversial, but sometimes it is a necessary maintenance strategy. It appears that it had not occurred for many years. Given the undue presence of weeds, we decided to begin a spraying program, only to be met with provincial legislation that bans this for all areas but golf courses. We have retained an arborist to evaluate trees. Some are dead and will be removed shortly. Others will be pruned. And we are hoping to plant new trees. & ( 0 ( 7 ( 5< 3 /2 7 6 ) 2 5 6 $ / (

We are now working with the respected landscape architect Janet Rosenberg and her firm, Janet Rosenberg and Associates. Janet is developing a master plan with a view to long-term beautification. We will be taking much advice from her. We have made adjustments to the Cemetery with a view to making more graves available for sale in a new section.

We hope to take the proceeds from these sales and build a proper house, containing a small office, washroom and ritual hand-washing facility, in the southeast corner of the grounds. We will endeavour to ensure that it is architecturally appropriate. The current set-up, which consists of an old garage-like structure, is not acceptable for the long run. We are working on all of these challenges so that over the many decades ahead, families can come to the sacred grounds to experience contentment as they show respect for their departed loved ones. A final note: the Harmonized Sales Tax comes into effect on July 1, 2010, which will mean an additional charge of eight percent for funeral and cemetery arrangements. — Richard Charney Chair, Cemetery Committee

6SULQJ UHYLWDOL]DWLRQ _ 5HQHZDO 3URMHFW 7KLV LV DQ LPSRUWDQW (and potentially historic) spring season in the life of Holy Blossom Temple, as we move toward the congregational vote to approve our Renewal Project Financial Plan. To follow is an update on what’s happening now and what’s coming up over the next 30 days or so. • In the next few days (if you haven’t already), you will be receiving a comprehensive information package containing everything you need to make an informed decision on Renewal. This package contains the Project Financial Plan, the Report

from the Financial Oversight Committee, architectural concept renderings, floor plans, official notice of the congregational vote and a voting proxy form. • We will have one more congregational gathering, on Tue. June 1, 2010, at 7.30 p.m., before the vote. Please come prepared with any questions or comments you still may have. • The vote on the Project Financial Plan is slated for a special meeting of the congregation on Sun. June 13, 2010, at 7.30 p.m. (although you may vote by proxy in advance of the meeting). • We continue to plan for construction

to begin in fall 2011. One of the benefits of our design scheme is that it is very likely that we will be able to keep our Sanctuary open for much of the construction period. • Our Leaderships Gifts fundraising efforts continue to gather momentum and (at the time of this writing in mid-April), we are very close to announcing more good news as a result of some excellent meetings with potential leadership donors. — David Rosenberg, Renewal Communications David.Rosenberg@bensimonbryne.com

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7RUDK VWXG\ OHDGV WR JUHDW WKRXJKWV :H RIWHQ KHDU that much of what we do at Holy Blossom Temple is “the best kept secret in town.â€? It is time to let some of our secrets out of the bag! Torah Study is just one of them. Each Shabbat morning, at 9 a.m., a wonderful cadre of people join Rabbi John Moscowitz for weekly Torah study — Torah L’shma — learning for the sake of learning. Torah Study is open to all. It is reminiscent of the words in the haggadah: “all who are hungry, let them come and eatâ€? — all who are interested in Torah study, let them come and learn! We welcome you to join us whenever you can. Joe Oliver and Liz Jaye, who express their thoughts below, are two valued members of our Torah Study group, and have been a part of the experience for years. The motivation to study Torah varies Under rabbinic guidance, we learn with religious belief, intellectual curiabout Judaism, Jewish history and our osity, social perspective and psychoreligious duties. We may find, hidden logical need. For the in the ancient :H PD\ ILQG KLGGHQ LQ WKH DQFLHQW texts, guidance observant, study is a core religious obliga- WH[WV JXLGDQFH IRU FRQWHPSRUDU\ for contempoSUREOHPV DV ZHOO DV OHVVRQV ZH tion. For many, the rary problems, as FDQ SDVV RQ WR RXU FKLOGUHQ motivation may be a well as lessons we spiritual yearning for answers to life’s can pass on to our children. most profound questions — the nature An overarching reason to study of God, the meaning of the human Torah is the quest for wisdom, which journey, the role of morality, our obligais there in abundance ‌ tions to our family and the broader — Joe Oliver community and the destiny of the Jewish people. Although the group is led by Rabbi John Moscowitz, the discussion is freeflowing and there is an opportunity for everyone to ask questions, share ideas and learn from each other. We come together to deepen our understanding of the issues addressed in Torah, and to give them relevance to modern times. For me, one of the most valuable aspects of the sessions is that they do not operate according to a strict agenda or timetable. The commitment to learning and

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exploring is what drives the discussion. There is a sense of community in the core group that attends each week. There have also been a number of new faces over the years and they bring new ideas and a fresh perspective on the topics being discussed. I find the sessions intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking, and a good balance to Services, which appeal more to the non-rational side of our beings. Torah study has deepened my understanding of a wide range of ethical and spiritual issues in general and of Judaism in particular. I have benefitted greatly from participating and believe that study like this can help to enrich the lives of all our members. — Liz Jaye

+HOSLQJ RWKHUV ILQG VDQFWXDU\ +RO\ %ORVVRP 7HPSOH is open for the business of worship 365 days of the year. This is thanks to Sarita Dotan, Head of the Department of Worship, and a small but mightily devoted corps of congregants who volunteer their precious time so that others may gather to find sanctuary in the words of our tradition, in the company of God and fellow Jews. There is another circle of volunteers who also offer their time to help their fellow congregants. Led with care by Jeff Levy, these caring people fulfill the mitzvah of leading Shiva Services for our mourners. We are indebted to our Daily and Shiva Service leadership. If you’d like to join this committed corps, please call Rabbi Yael Splansky (ext. 244), at the Temple, or email ysplansky@holyblosom.org. If you’d like to help ensure a minyan at our Daily Services, please just come. We need you, too. As a Jew, I am more observant of tradition than I am of religion. Why then am I part of the team that leads Shacharit Services? The answer: tradition. Shacharit Service leadership allows me, in small but important ways, to participate in long-standing Jewish traditions: giving back to community, reaching out to others, honouring deceased family and friends,

contemplating my relationship with God and demonstratively, being a Jew. Life presents us daily with challenges, questions, troubles and, of course, pleasures. Jewish tradition teaches us to balance these. Shacharit leadership offers an opportunity for an hour, once weekly, every other month, to achieve physical, emotional and spiritual balance. — Harry Hochman, Daily Leader

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I have always felt a strong kinship Service, I think of my father; from this I with Holy Blossom. Following my derive great joy. Moreover, I have finally father’s death in July 2000, I attended found a way of paying back the Temple Services daily. Toward the , FRQVLGHU P\ VHUYLFH WR WKH for a lifetime end of the year, Cantor 7HPSOH WR EH EXW D VPDOO WRNHQ IRU of community; Benjamin Maissner asked WKH SOHDVXUHV , KDYH GUDZQ IURP I consider my me if I would consider +RO\ %ORVVRP WKURXJKRXW P\ OLIH service to the being a Shacharit Service Temple to be but leader. Now, after nine years of leading a small token for the pleasures I have Services, my two reasons for accepting drawn from Holy Blossom throughout this honour have not changed. Most my life. important to me, every time I lead a — Dr. Ken Sniderman, Daily Leader When I was a little boy, I told my dad I wanted to be a chazan. While I haven’t quit my day job yet, I have had the opportunity to indulge my childhood dream to some very small degree. All shivas are unique, and vary by many factors. What they all have in common, though, is that at 8 a.m., all the activity stops, and the group, with little prompting, comes together for the Service. The other thing they have in common is how uniformly grateful the

mourners are to the Service leaders. As the mitzvah of providing comfort in this way is one of the most profoundly gratifying and meaningful experiences in my life, it is I who should be thanking them. The Service ends, the books are collected, the conversations pick up where they left off and I quietly leave, feeling much better for having been there. — Dr. David Greenberg, Shiva Leader

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7KH GDQJHU RI ,UDQ ZKDW QRZ" $ QXFOHDU ,UDQ UHSUHVHQWV an increasingly dangerous threat to Israel, to other countries of the Middle East and to the world in general. Iran continues to defy UN resolutions to be open about its nuclear activities and to avoid development of the technologies used to make nuclear weapons. Iran’s nuclear program appears to proceed without interruption. At the same time, Iran has refused offers of safe nuclear power and appears to have used these negotiations as a diversion or stalling tactic while it accelerates the enrichment of uranium.

The Iranian government’s oppression of minorities and dissidents increased last year in response to protests against the published election results. The government uses brutal methods to crush demonstrations and other forms of resistance. At this time, it appears that internal resistance has been successfully neutralized. 5($/ '$1*(56

The potential consequences of Iran’s race to nuclear weapons are many, but include the strengthening of terrorist organizations (e.g. Hezbollah and Hamas) and the risk of a terrorist “dirty bomb� (nuclear material) attack. And, of course, a nuclear Iran is an existential threat to the State of Israel. Iranian leaders continue to reject the legitimacy of Israel’s existence and threaten the State of Israel with destruction. $:$5(1(66 $1' $&7,21

We must all recognize these threats and take all possible measures to dissuade Iran from its nuclear weapons program before the world is forced to choose

between military confrontation and acceptance of a nuclear Iran. / ( $ 5 1 $ 1 ' * ( 7 , 1 9 2 /9 ( '

Holy Blossom’s Israel Committee presents a series of lectures to raise awareness within our own community and to provide ideas on how we can take action. These sessions are intended to go beyond the television headlines through the participation of recognized authorities on this topic. On the topic of Iran, we are pleased to present the Honourable Irwin Cotler, Member of Parliament and former Minister of Justice, on Wed. June 2, at 7.30 p.m., and Sayeh Hassan, Lawyer and Iranian Pro-Democracy Activist, and Hershell Ezrin, Renowned Political Analyst and former CEO, Canadian Council for Israel and Jewish Advocacy, on Shabbat afternoon, June 5, at 1.p.m. Please join us for these sessions and become involved in this important issue. ² Jeff Denaburg, Co-Chair, Israel Committee jeff@denaburg.org

.LQGQHVV DQG .LQGHU .LWV :KDW GRHV VRFLDO DFWLRQ mean to you? To me, it means tikkun olam — the fundamental belief that we have the obligation to show kindness to those around us, no matter their race, religion or ethnicity. To address this issue, the Social Action Committee and Ve’ahavta (the Canadian Jewish Humanitarian and Relief Committee) have come together to send Kinder Kits (backpacks filled with school supplies) to disadvantaged

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children in Israel. With these educational tools, a child no longer has to worry about being able to afford to learn and can simply focus on his or her studies. Simply put, these kits will relieve families’ financial obstacles to providing children with the education needed to battle poverty. With your generous donations of nearly new backpacks and school supplies, we put together hundreds of Kinder Kits during Mitzvah Day last

month. The Kinder Kits donated by our community will now be distributed by Ve’ahavta’s partner organization in Israel, Hazon Yeshaya, a humanitarian group that fights poverty and hunger. If you did not have the opportunity to participate, you still can. You may give a gift of a complete Kinder Kit by donating $18 in Holy Blossom’s name through Ve’ahavta at http://bit.ly/aA0u8Z. — Sam Pikelin Social Action Committee Member

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16 Sivan 5770/May 29, 2010 Jayden Walters, daughter of Kimberley & Craig Walters

Mazal tov to Senator Linda Frum on receiving the State of Israel Bonds 2010 Golda Meir Award and on receiving an Honorary Doctorate from Yeshiva University.

21 Sivan 5770/June 3, 2010 Casey Stein, daughter of Hildi & Gary Stein

%,57+6 Sari & Jaimie Grossman on the birth of a son, Joseph Allan Grossman brother to Lawrence and Abby. Proud grandparents are Joyce & Murray Arlin, and Carole Grossman. Proud great-grandparents are Betty & Hy Arlin. Karen & Larry Hausman, on the birth of a granddaughter, Sabrina Saige Hausman, daughter of Carrie Beallor & Evan Hausman. Other proud grandparents are Elaine & Edwin Beallor. Rebecca & Shane Henry, on the birth of a son, Bodie Jacob Henry, brother to Ryne. Proud grandparents are Janeth & Alex Henry and Lynn & Bob Martin. Proud great-grandmothers are Riva Henry and Phyllis Martin. Leslie & Nir Orbach, on the birth of a son, Aaron Shai Orbach, brother to David and Benjamin. Proud grandparents are Cecile & Harry Erlich and Yael & Eliezer Orbach. Elana Fehler on the birth of a granddaughter, Maude Kopyto Primack, daughter of Erica Kopyto & David Primack, sister to Sadie. Other proud grandparents are Harry Kopyto, Sabina Reznick and Ray Primack. Lisa & David Swimmer, on the birth of a son, Dylan Swimmer, brother to Noah. Proud grandparents are Susan Young, Steven Young and Jennifer Swimmer & Andrew Tylman. Proud great-grandparents are Shirley Polon, and Helen & John Young. %¡1(, 0,7=9$+ 26 Nisan 5770/Apr. 10, 2010 Jonathan Micay, son of Susan Baskin & Jack Micay

2 Sivan 5770/May 15, 2010 Charlie Rosenberg, son of Gillian & David Rosenberg

23 Sivan 5770/June 5, 2010 Rafael Lugassy, son of Donna Saslove & Simon Lugassy 30 Sivan 5770/June 12, 2010 Madeline Shiller, daughter of Nori Kobayashi & Robert Shiller 7 Tammuz 5770/June 19, 2010 Sabrina Brodkin, daughter of Lara & Andrew Brodkin

Minnie Herman, mother of Martin Herman and Larry Herman Marion Kert, mother of Roey Kert, Ellen Kert and Robin Guido Beverley Nisenboim, wife of Sam Nisenboim, mother of Shawn Nisenboim and Eliot Nisenboim Sydney Rosenfield, husband of Marjorie Rosenfield, father of Stephen Rosenfield, brother of Laurie Rosenfield Judith Sobel, mother of Rabbi Sharon Sobel, Isaac Sobel, David Sobel, Michael Sobel, Ari Sobel and Naomi Marks Alfred Shaul, father of Randi Shaul, Jeff Shaul and Brenda Shaul Edward Stossel, father of Joni Stossel Lillian Sweet, sister of David Sweet

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Dori Levine, In Honour: Susan & Brian Fishman $5&+,9(6 )81'

General Donation: Brother Andre Catholic School; St. Michael’s College School

7 Tammuz 5770/June 19, 2010 Lauren Hoffman, daughter of Leslie Giller & Andrew Hoffman

%$55< 686$1 %25'(1 )81'

Dr. Barry Borden, In Honour: David Slan Judith Sobel, In Memory: Susan & Barry Borden & + $ 5 $ & + ) $ 0 , /< ( 1 ' 2 : 0 ( 1 7 ) 8 1 '

(1*$*(0(17 Happy Iscove & Melvyn Iscove on the engagement of their daughter, Debra Iscove, to Max Ben-Yakov, son of Natella & Daniel Ben-Yakov of Montreal.

Alice & Ron Charach, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family 6$0, $1' -$0(6 &223(5 <287+ $:$5' )81'

Margol Gelman, In Memory: Sami & James Cooper ( $ 5 / $ 1 ' 0 $ 5 , /< 1 ' $ 1 6 2 1 ) $ 5 % ( 5 (1'2:0(17 )81'

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Maxwell Smolkin, In Memory: Marilyn Farber Lillian Sweet, In Memory: Marilyn Farber

The congregation sympathizes with the recently bereaved families of: Leni Bobrowsky, sister of Ruth Smith, mother of Debbi Bobrowsky and Brenda Boussidan Joan Gotkin, mother of Brad Gotkin, Lisa Shankman and Jason Gotkin, sister of Evie Mintz

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Daisy Jacobs, In Honour: Mondays @ the Temple Program Sally & Ben Jacobson, In Honour: Marilyn & Richard Soberman Maxwell Smolkin, In Memory: Penny Fine & Hugh Furneaux Judith Sobel, In Memory: Gail & Gary Goodman and Family 0 D \ - X Q H _ , \ D U 6 L Y D Q 7D P P X ]

) /2 5 $ / ) 8 1 '

and Family; Sandra Snitman; Bea Strasberg; Lenore

Jonathan Micay, Bar Mitzvah: Dr. Jack Micay & Susan

& Roy Waisberg; West Family and Helen Ederman;

Baskin and family

Ede & Lou York; Mary & Abram Zak

Lesley Shiner, Bat Mitzvah: Janet & Norman Shiner Jayden Walters, Bat Mitzvah: The Walters Family

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Jordan Young, Bar Mitzvah: Lisa & John Young

Dean Fisher, In Honour: Michelle Katz & Larry Blumenthal

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Allen Gardner, Yahrzeit: Zita Gardner and Family; Dee-Dee & Gary Shiffman and Family

Rabbi John Moscowitz, In Honour: Ellen & Marvin Rosenberg and Family Judith Sobel, In Memory: Phyllis & Jeff Denaburg

Earl Gardner, Yahrzeit: Dee-Dee & Gary Shiffman and Family Gertrude Gardner, Yahrzeit: Dee-Dee & Gary Shiffman and Family

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Jill Hertzman, In Honour: Jane & Rob Herman Judith Sobel, In Memory: Brenda & Fred Saunders

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Judith Sobel, In Memory: Randi & Alan Garfinkel

Susan Baskin & Jack Micay: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood

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Rose Goldstein Gold, Yahrzeit: Denise Goldstein; Cynthia & Brian Hands and Family

Corinne Black, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family Elana Fehler, In Honour: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood

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Beryl Borsook, In Honour: Jane & Rob Herman Dr. Arnold Epstein, In Memory: Carol & Bert Abugov Mavis Mendelsohn, In Memory: Debbie Redner & Benjamin Applebaum Frank Pulver, In Honour: Helaine & Allan Shiff Marlene Pulver, In Honour: Helaine & Allan Shiff Maxwell Smolkin, In Memory: Myrna M. Sandler Judith Sobel, In Memory: Janice & Larry Babins; Esther & Marvin Tile + 2 /< % / 2 6 6 2 0 7 ( 0 3 / ( 5 ( 1 ( : $ / 3 5 2 - ( & 7

Susan Baskin & Jack Micay, In Honour of Jonathan’s Bar Mitzvah: Judy Nyman & Harley Mintz Senator Linda Frum, In Honour of receiving Golda Meir Award and Honourary Doctorate from Yeshiva University: Judy Nyman & Harley Mintz Dr. Bernard Goldman, In Honour: Wendy & Elliott Eisen Bernard Herman, In Honour: Wendy & Elliott Eisen Judy Nyman & Harley Mintz, In Honour: Risa Mintz & Gary Himel and Family

Chun Kam Leung, In Memory: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood Judith Sobel, In Memory: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood .,''86+ )81'

Sabrina Saige Hausman, In Honour: Karen & Larry Hausman General: Jill Hertzman; Anita Lapidus ' 2 : ) 5 ( ' = , $ 0 $ 5 0 8 5 3 5 2 * 5 $ 0 ) 2 5 ( ' 8 & $7 , 2 1 $ / ( ; & ( / / ( 1 & (

Matilda Bigio, In Honour: Ellen Karabanow Dina Borovoy, In Honour: Ruth Gelber Sara Charney, In Honour: Ruth Gelber Chun Kam Leung, In Memory: Phyllis & Jeff Denaburg; Ellen Karabanow Rabbi Dow Marmur, In Honour: Phyllis & Manny Spivak Mavis Mendelsohn, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwan; Myrna M. Sandler Judith Sobel, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwan Rabbi Richard Sobel, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwan

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Rose Fogle, In Honour: Harriet Brown; Janis & Marty

Lesley Miller, In Honour: Their Children

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Rivers Family, In Honour: Eleanor & Peter Loebel Mari Lynn Rusak, In Honour: Phyllis Wintraub Helen Sherman, In Honour: Margie Wolfe 086,&$/ /(*$&< )81'

Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Honour: Judith Wilansky; Nadine & Arthur Wolf Willem J. Myer, In Memory: Ruth Ellen & Sheldon Greenwood Saundra Sherman, In Honour: Toby & Gordon Ciglen Temple Singers, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family 2 / 6 % ( 5 * 5 8 7 6 $7 = ) 8 1 '

Robert Gorrie, In Memory: Elke & Mel Olsberg Louise & Gavin Quinn, In Honour: Elke & Mel Olsberg Judith Sobel, In Memory: Elke & Mel Olsberg 287 2) 7+( &2/' )81'

Bessie Cassidy, In Honour: Richard Vrooman & Corinne Black and Family Merryl Josephson Conway, In Memory: Rena Mendelsohn & Alan Detsky Ella Greenholtz, In Memory: Rena Mendelsohn & Alan Detsky; Marion & Ted Moses Happy Iscove, In Honour: Liz Tarshis & Rick Lash and Family Sonya Ben-Ishai, In Honour: Richard Vrooman & Corinne Black and Family Daniel Leese, In Honour: Zelda & Lenn Melamed Mavis Mendelsohn, In Memory: Shannon Tramer Jonathan Micay, In Honour: Richard Vrooman & Corinne Black and Family Talia Rivers, In Honour: Richard Vrooman & Corinne Black and Family Talia Rivers and Family, In Honour: Brenda & Fred Saunders Lucas Sheiner, In Honour: Sasson Family Maxwell Smolkin, In Memory: Diana & Marvin Goodman; Elizabeth Johnson & Leslie Rose; Bernice & Yitz Penciner Judith Sobel, In Memory: Shilly & Laz Rosen; Eva Woolf Rabbi Karen Thomashow, In Honour: Ellen & Marvin Rosenberg and Family General: David & Sybil Gordon Memorial Fund;

Ginsler; Lily and Hena Goldfield; Sandra Grivas

0 8 6 , & $ / + ( 5 , 7$ * ( ) 8 1 '

Melamed Extended Family; Help Eliminate Disease

and Family; Janice Jacinto; Dorothy James; Bertha

Ella Greenholtz, In Memory: Sylvia & Harvey Naftolin

and Addiction Canada

Rosen and Family; Jocelyn & Leonard Schwartz;

Mavis Mendelsohn, In Memory: Mary & Henry Seldon

Susan & Mark Shapiro; Susan & Allan Shoychet

Micay Family, In Honour: Eleanor & Peter Loebel

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Sheila & Bob Masters, In Honour: Brenda Baskind

Rabbi Bernard Baskin, In Honour: Doris Laskin

Joyce Zemans, In Honour: Pam & Herb Beiles; Robins

Shelly Berenbaum, In Honour: Bonnie Jackson

and Ellen Horowitz

Family; Marilyn & Bob Sandler; Lesley Sandler & Adam Griff

Confirmation Class 2010, In Honour: Sara & Rick 1 $ 1 & < 5 8 7 + ( ' 8 & $7 , 2 1 $ / ) 8 1 '

Charney and Family

Deborah Chesnie Cooper, In Honour: Nancy Ruth

Elana Fehler, In Honour: Bonnie Jackson

Sam Ruth, Yahrzeit: Etta Ginsberg McEwan

Joan Garson & David Baskin, In Appreciation: Susan

Henry Akler, Yahrzeit: Nonni & Saul Akler

/2 5 5 $ , 1 ( 6 $ 1 ' / ( 5 7 5 , % 8 7 ( ( 1 ' 2 : 0 ( 1 7 ) 8 1 '

Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers, In Honour: Ellen &

Chun Kam Leung, In Memory: Pam & Greg

Happy Iscove, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack

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Harold Akler, Yahrzeit: Nonni & Saul Akler

Marvin Rosenberg and Family

Micay and Family

Hamovitch and Family

Chun Kam Leung, In Memory: Shelly Berenbaum;

Edith Zadnoff, Yahrzeit: Nonni & Saul Akler

Debbie & Randy Spiegel

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Joyce & Barry Spiegel, In Honour: Joy & Charles Cohen 352-(&7 7,.9$+ )81'

Sonia Slobodsky, In Memory: Gail & Barry Silver Nancy Sniderman, Yahrzeit: Barbara Sniderman 5$%%,6¡ $1' &$17256¡ ',6&5(7,21$5< )81'6

Rabbi John Moscowitz, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family; Tania & Brian Blumenthal; Family of Beverley Colman-Lokash; David & Sybil Gordon Memorial Fund; Joanne Weigen Rabbi Yael Splansky, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family Rabbi Yael Splansky, In Honour: Wilma & Lloyd Duckman; Susan & Brian Fishman; David & Sybil Gordon Memorial Fund; Holy Blossom Temple Chavurah; Carolyn Soskin & Ron Polster Rabbi Yael Splansky: Wilma Kwinter, In Honour: Dr. Sharyn Salsberg Ezrin & Hershell Ezrin Rabbi Edward Goldfarb, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Appreciation: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Honour: Susan & Brian Fishman; David & Sybil Gordon Memorial Fund; Ellen & Marvin Rosenberg and Family Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers, In Appreciation: Family of Beverley Colman-Lokash Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers, In Honour: Adele Sacks & Jamie Spotswood and Family; Rabbi Michal Shekel 5 2 6 ( : , 1 ' 2 : 5 ( 6 7 2 5 $7 , 2 1

Babins Family, In Honour: Ellen Karabanow Lampe Family, In Honour: Ellen Karabanow General: David & Sybil Gordon Memorial Fund

Mavis Mendelsohn, In Memory: Shelly Berenbaum;

Adam Albright, Yahrzeit: Shirley & Scarlat Albright

Bonnie Jackson

Warren Bartram, In Memory: Sandra Kamenir

Talia Rivers, In Honour: Tania & Brian Blumenthal

Rudolph Bodor, Yahrzeit: Agi Lantos

and Family; Bonnie Jackson; Lily Lee; Joanne &

Judy Burstein, Yahrzeit: Andrea Burstein

Kevin Roher

Gail Eisen, Yahrzeit: Morty Eisen and Family

Mari Lynn Rusak, In Honour: Bonnie Jackson

Yetta Fishbein, Yahrzeit: Rina & Saul Fishbein

Dalia Sifroni, In Memory: Bederman Family; Debbie &

Kalman Geller, Yahrzeit: Sybil & Jack Geller Morris Granatstein, Yahrzeit: Joan & Don Granatstein Bella Gruenspan, Yahrzeit: Myrna M. Sandler Issie Guberman, Yahrzeit: Judith Wilansky Jill Kamin, In Appreciation: Valerie Brass Jack Kirzner, Yahrzeit: Edith Kirzner and Family

Baskin & Jack Micay and Family

Randy Spiegel Judith Sobel, In Memory: Eleanor & Peter Loebel; Mark Miller and Family Rabbi Richard Sobel, In Memory: Mark Miller and Family; Eleanor & Peter Loebel

Pearl & Jay Lipsey, Yahrzeit: Helen Lyon Alex Mandel, Yahrzeit: Veronica Mandel Isadore Margolese, Yahrzeit: Pnina Margolese Selma Millman, Yahrzeit: Ruth Rosen Eva Miloia, Yahrzeit: Veronica Mandel

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Charles Palef, Yahrzeit: Barbara & John Greenberg

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Dr. Ira Pollock, Yahrzeit: Dr. Sheila Pollock

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David Rigler, Yahrzeit: Bonnie & Sheldon Hoppe and Family; Janie Rigler Anna Rosenbaum, Yahrzeit: Pnina Margolese Sydney Rosenfield, In Memory: Barry Goldblatt Dr. Henry Sager, Yahrzeit: Adele Sager and Family Jacob Sandler, Yahrzeit: Myrna M. Sandler

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Sidney & Laura Schipper, Yahrzeit: Robert Schipper Judith Sobel, In Memory: Matilda Bigio

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General Donation: Lana Rosenberg * 2 5 ' 2 1 $ 1 ' / , 1 ' $ : 2 / ) ( ) $ 0 , /< < 2 8 7 + $:$5' (1'2:0(17 )81'

Gordon Wolfe, Yahrzeit: Etta Ginsberg McEwan

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$FFRUGLQJ WR WKH 7RUDK after creating Adam, the first human being, “Adonai took the human, and placed the human in the Garden of Eden to work it and to guard it.� (Gen. 2:15) The Hebrew words for “work� and “guard� are “ovdah� and “shomra� respectively. They more particularly connote labour, such as tilling, and ongoing maintenance, such as watering. And most specifically, they suggest a two-pronged approach to gardening, which is to properly plant and then properly sustain that which has been planted. This spring, as we tend to our own home or community gardens, being mindful of Adam’s example of good gardening practices will surely see to the longevity of our plants. However, Adam’s gardening practices, according to our tradition, are not only blueprints

for a good small garden, they are, in fact, guidelines for the sustenance of our entire world. We are the inheritors of Adam’s position, which is l’ovdah u’l’shomra — to work and guard the earth. 3527(&7,1* *2'¡6 &5($7,21

Later Jewish tradition clarifies this early biblical example of caring for our environment. We are obligated to protect God’s creation, and this includes both positive and negative acts that we are obliged by. In other words, we are commanded to guard and sustain the earth and we are commanded to not waste or misuse the earth. Wasting or misusing materials is known by the rabbinic principle of ba’al tashchit — do not waste. In the Talmud, it is written, “Whoever breaks vessels, or tears garments, or destroys a building, or clogs a well, or does away with food in a destructive manner violates the mitzvah of ba’al tashchit.� In 13th-century Spain, Sefer HaChinuch, an authoritative work dedicated to the systematic discussion

of the 613 commandments of the Torah, was published. Regarding commandment number 529, we learn that the author considered the righteous to be commanded to work to save the earth from wastefulness and destruction. We understand, today, the work of environmental protection to be the responsibility of all. There is no group, cohort or individual who is exempt from God’s original command. The same goes for organizations. And to that, Holy Blossom Temple is not exempt. In fact, Holy Blossom Temple’s Green Team, or Green Committee, is reinvigorating itself as you read this, working to create a vision of environmental leadership for the entire congregation to participate in. &$5(7$.(56 2) 285 (19,5210(17

There is more to come in the next months as our Temple community moves more squarely within the tradition of guarding our environment. God is green; so are we to be.

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