Vol. 90 N°2
May - June - July 2011 Iyar - Sivan - Tamuz 5 7 71
PM4 0 0 3 5 7 0 9
There’s something for everyone at Temple... Adult Programming PAGES 10-13
Children’s and Family Programming PAGE 14-15
Memorable Purim Moments PAGES 16-17
Shabbat and Holiday Celebrations PAGE 15
Rabbi
Just between us... N a’ar hayiti. Many yesterdays ago, though it seems but a minute, in another country not far away, I was once the youngest rabbi of any major congregation in North America. A decade and a half later, you asked me to serve as Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom’s Senior Rabbi, and I have taken that honour, privilege, and responsibility to heart. For 22-plus years, we have sought together to develop this congregation and our Jewish spirit. Many have been the challenges, the mountains to climb, but many, too, have been the vistas from new heights of inspiration. We have strengthened each other in bleak personal moments and shared our rejoicing when we reached new milestones along the way. You have honoured my strengths and overlooked my frailties, and for those blessings, I am thankful to you and to God. I love my work, my congregation, and my Jewish tradition, and I hope that love has from time to time kindled the “pintele Yid,” that little point of Jewish fire within your soul. Vegam zakanti. Suddenly I look around, and lo and behold, I find myself among the older generation of rabbis in major North American pulpits. Thank God, I have my strength, my health, my mind, my sense of humour, and I still have much to give. But next year will be my 40th year in the rabbinate and that means it is time for a change, time for Temple to welcome rabbinic leadership that lives and understands the life of a new generation. Temple and I have made arrangements for me to take on a new role in retirement, that of Rabbi Emeritus, be-
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T h e V o i c e ~ H a ko l T e m p l e E m a n u -E l -B e t h S h o lo m ’ s N e w s l e tt e r
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Mark Lehberg, VOICE GRAPHIC DESIGNER mark@latitudes-marketing.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please send advertising and editorial e-mails to
Rabbi Leigh Lerner
ginning in July of 2012. Loren and I are staying Montreal, and I’ll be available to Temple and the new rabbi to be of help as asked, but I’ll also have opportunities for personal development and for family life that call me forward and which require my time. I have every confidence that we’ll find a rabbi to carry on the traditions of Temple and shape the congregation as an even greater centre of Jewish life in Montreal. Temple president Alan Knopp is appointing a capable search committee, and you can be sure I’ll be a spokesperson for the delights of this great city and for the spirit of this congregation. We continue together along the road of Jewish living for another year and more, entering an exciting time of evaluation and change that will bring us into a new era. Let’s enjoy the ride and grow from it. I wish you all a delightful summer season. We are here every Shabbat in air conditioned comfort. See you at Temple! Rabbi Leigh Lerner
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
info@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Rabbi Leigh Lerner rabbi@templemontreal.ca Sarah Polsky, Rabbi Lerner’s Secretary sarah@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Rachelle Shubert, Director of Music rachelle@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Shellie Ettinger, Executive Director shellie@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Howard Glazer, Administrative Assistant howard@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Anita Bensabat, Program Director anita@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Emma Cohen, Accounting emma@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Melanie Alter, Director of Education melanie@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Rosie Zizek , Administrative Assistant
rosie@templemontreal.ca
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Heidi Reinblatt, Director of marketing and communications
heidi@templemontreal.ca --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Temple is now on Facebook, Become a Fan!
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T h e V o i c e i s ava i l a b l e o n l i n e ! V i s i t o u r w e bs i t e : www.templemontreal.ca
IN THIS ISSUE... Rabbi...................................................... 2-3 Leadership News............................... 4-8 Adult Programming.......................10-13 Get Involved...........................................13 Child & Family Programming.....14-15 Shabbat & Holidays.............................15 Memorable Purim Moments.......16-17 B’Nai Mitzvah..................................18-20 Cemetery News....................................21 Milestones............................................. 22 Donations............................................... 23 Yahrzeit...................................................24 Yahrzeit and Yizkor............................25 Kids First/Tweens First.....................26 Calendars.........................................29-31
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
Rabbi
Weekly Shabbat Morning Study with Rabbi Lerner Saturdays from 9:15-10:15 AM Every Shabbat morning, Rabbi Lerner leads a discussion about Jewish ethics. Based on a recent book by Joseph Telushkin, the conversation is always lively and focused on key points raised by Jewish traditions about how to behave in society. Especially if you have never joined us before, we welcome you to the discussion table! Please note: the last class for this season will take place on Saturday, May 28.
Marriage information Evenings May 11, June 15, July 13, 2011, 5:30 PM Couples considering intermarriage or conversion by one partner before marriage are invited to attend an information session with Rabbi Leigh Lerner, who will explain Temple’s policies and practices and give a tour of our facilities.
Seniors’ Residence Erev Shabbat Services Friday, May 13, June 17, and July 15, 2011 2:30 PM - Chateau Westmount 4:45 PM - Place Kensington Once a month, Rabbi Lerner leads Erev Shabbat services at seniors’ residences. Family members are welcome to attend with residents.
Bar and Bat Mitzvah Information Meetings Attention parents of children born in 1999, 2000 and 2001: Rabbi Lerner will present our synagogue’s program of education for b’nai mitzvah, information about Temple’s facilities and a calendar open for your bar/bat mitzvah date selection. Our Director of Education, Melanie Alter, will also be on hand to provide additional information about our program. Bar and Bat Mitzvah classes meet Saturday mornings and/or Wednesday afternoons at Temple; Mondays on the West Island. The information meeting lasts one hour. Everyone welcome. Monday, May 30, 7:30 PM: West Island Federation CJA building, 96 Roger Pilon, D.D.O. Wednesday, June 1, 7:30 PM: at Temple
Kabbalat Torah (Confirmation) Service Friday, June 3, 2011, 8:15 PM Temple wishes mazal tov to our confirmands who have completed their education in Temple’s Torah School. They are Hannah Virginia Fronenberg, daughter of Dr. Louis Fronenberg and Fernanda Sousa; Josephine Marie Issenman, daughter of Philip Issenman and Catherine Van der Linden; and Victoria Anne Kent, daughter of Bruce Kent and Joëlle Benchimol. The Temple Board and leadership invite the entire congregation to this unique service of graduation and rededication.
Next issue of The Voice: August-September Please send all submissions to Heidi@templemontreal.ca by July 4th, 2011 at noon Senior Rabbi Immediate Past President President First Vice-President Vice-President Vice-President
Leigh Lerner, D.D. Brian Grant Alan Knopp Stephen Yaffe Denise Grossman Jane Rothstein
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
Please note: There will be no 8:15 PM services on the evenings of Friday, May 6 and June 10. Instead, please join us for special early services at 5:45 PM.
Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom 4100 Sherbrooke Street West Westmount, QC H3Z 1A5 Telephone: 514-937-3575 Fax: 514-937-7058 E-mail: info@templemontreal.ca Founded in 1882 / 5642 Affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism
Vice-President Honourary Treasurer Financial Secretary Honourary Secretary Executive Director Chair, Advisory Committee
Stephen Schneider Susan Szalpeter Mark Oppenheim Barry Katsof Shellie Ettinger Kalman Samuels
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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LEADERSHIP NEWS
From the President’s Desk...
The challenge has begun.
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s many of you have heard by now, Rabbi Lerner has made the decision to retire in July 2012. I am sure that you will all agree that Temple is deeply appreciative for the decades of commitment and service Rabbi has provided. Rabbi has told me that he is thankful for the years of service to God, Torah and Israel that Temple has permitted him to offer our congregation. The best news of all is that Rabbi has agreed, and looks forward to, many more years of participation in the life of Temple as Rabbi Emeritus and contributing to the Temple and the Jewish community. Without a doubt there will be major events planned to honour Rabbi and his dedication to our Temple membership and to the Montreal Community at large. I am pleased to announce that Dr. Victor Goldbloom has agreed to head our Rabbi Search Committee. On behalf of the congregation I thank Dr. Goldbloom for accepting this challenge and am certain that we will all be pleased with the result. We certainly do live in interesting times. A couple of weeks ago, a member asked me if I would consider re-running some of my comments from a few years back. So here is one column that I received many comments on: We certainly live in interesting times. Recently, while waiting for my son Michael’s hockey game to begin, I had the opportunity to speak with one of the other parents. I was fascinated to learn that one of the parents, who hails from Lebanon, is in fact a Druze. As he elaborated on their history and beliefs, I thought it would be a good idea to share them with you. The Druze are a small and distinct religious community residing mainly in Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Turkey and Jordan. They use the Arabic language and follow a social pattern very similar to that of the Arabs of the region. They
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are not considered Muslims by most Muslims, although some Druze say that their religions is an Islamic one. Most Druze consider themselves to be Arabs, although some Israeli Druze do not. In Lebanon, Syria and Israel, the Druze have official recognition as a separate religious community with its own religious court system. Their symbol is an array of five colours: green, red, yellow, blue and white. Each colour pertains to a symbol, each defining their principles. The symbol can also be represented in a five-sided star. This is why the number five has special significance in their community. In Israel, Druze vote in elections and usually identify themselves as Israeli citizens. However, many Druze living in the Golan Heights consider themselves as Syrians and refuse Israeli citizenship. Israeli Druze also serve in the Israeli army, voluntarily since 1948, mandatory since 1956. Their privileges and responsibilities are the same as those of Israeli Jews. Thus, all Druze are drafted, but exemptions are granted for religious students and certain others. The Druze faith keeps its tenets secret. They are publicly open about very few details of their faith and do not accept converts or recognize conversions from their religion to another. This is due to many religious, political and historical reasons: the Druze were violently and brutally persecuted for centuries by other religious communities. One of the Druze holy books is called the “Hikma Book” or the “Book of Wisdom”, largely compiled by a mysterious figure named Al-Muqtana. They denounce materialism, especially in relation to religion. Thus, their places of worship are usually very modest and their religious leaders (ajawid) lead very modest lives. Today, contradictory literature and hoaxes surround the Druze, mainly due to adopted beliefs that were used to protect them from persecution or simply due to outsiders spreading rumours.
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
For example, it is still unclear to most outsiders whether the Druze follow the same fasting traditions as Muslims during Ramadan. This is because they followed these Alan Knopp traditions for Temple President many centuries to avoid persecution. The Druze consider the Old Testament prophets, as well as Jesus and Muhammad, to be true prophets. In contrast to other monotheistic faiths, they elevate Jethro, the father of Moses, to the status of major prophet. They also believe in the wisdom of Classical Greek philosophers like Plato. In addition, they have an array of “wise men” who founded the religion in the 11th century. Prominent Israeli Druze Salah Tarif (former captain in the paratrooper and tank divisions of the Israeli army) has been a Knesset member since 1992. He has served as Deputy Speaker and Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs and was appointed Minister without Portfolio in the Sharon government of 2001. Other notable figures include Ayoob Kara, a Druze Knesset member of the Likud Party, and Colonel Imad Fares, the acclaimed commander of the Givati Brigade from 2001- 2003. Major General Hussain Fares is the commander of the Israel Border Police, Azzam Azzam was accused by Egypt of spying for Israel and jailed for 8 years before being released in late 2004. Interfaith communication and study has long been an important aspect of Temple. I sincerely hope that this brief history of the Druze enlightens you as it did me. (Excerpts from “Identity Repertoires among Arabs in Israel” by Muhamamd Amara and Izhak Schnell, Journal of Ethnic Migration Studies, Vo. 30, 2004)
Alan Knopp aknopp@alphiapparel.com
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
LEADERSHIP NEWS
From the Executive Director’s Desk...
Shalom,
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n the next few weeks, you will be receiving your annual contribution notice. This year, Temple is making it easier than ever for you to make your contribution by accepting several payment methods, including cash, debit card, cheque or credit card and by offering you the option of paying in full or making partial, monthly or post-dated payments. You will also note that we have created new membership categories, including a reduced annual contribution level for those under the age of 35. (Please keep in mind that we must receive at least partial payment of your annual contribution before issuing your High Holiday tickets.) As you make your contribution this year, please know that your financial support not only enables Temple to cover our building maintenance and operat-
ing costs and to continue to offer our full range of services and activities, but also allows us to welcome everyone who wishes to join our Temple Shellie Ettinger family, regardExecutive Director less of their financial situation. No one is ever turned away from Temple due to his or her inability to meet the annual contribution commitment. If you require financial assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me and rest assured that all inquiries are held in the strictest of confidence. On a different yet equally important topic, as we prepare to welcome spring,
the season of renewal, Temple is preparing to welcome the next generation of congregational leadership. We embrace generational change as vital to the continued strength of our congregation and look forward to supporting the next generation of members as they assume leadership roles, help to shape Temple policy and planning, and guide us toward a strong and vibrant future. Wherever your interests lie, Temple welcomes your input. Some of the committees currently seeking involvement by our younger members include Membership and Outreach, Dues, Budget and Finance, Ritual and Choir, Programming and Education, to name just a few. To find out more, please contact me or Temple’s president, Alan Knopp. Best wishes for a relaxing and enjoyable summer! Shellie Ettinger Shellie@templemontreal.ca
From the Program Director’s Desk... “The Purpose of Life is A Life of Purpose”! ~ Robert Byrne
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ach new, long awaited Spring brings us Refreshed Hope, Revived Growth, and Fresh Endeavors; and this Spring Temple will be bursting with Life! In a time when the World seems to have more than her share of darkness and difficulty, Spring is the one and only tonic to boost our morale system! Within these pages, you will find an activity, event or discussion to whet every appetite and appeal to all members of your family and friends. Just before Mother’s Day, we are holding a light hearted and creative Mosaics evening for mothers of all ages to share with their daughters! Anant Jesse, well known and highly regarded Health & Spirituality advisor and facilitator, will head up our Spring Dine & Discover evening! We have three major talking heads and special guests for Shabbat and Havdalah! Book Lovers TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
is back with a very different format this Spring, featuring Cheryl Braganza! Corrie Sirota will bring parents together to infiltrate the depths Anita Bensabat of the InterProgram Director net; Friend or Foe! We will be hosting a Speed Dating Evening for the 20-35 year old crowd, with an open coffee bar and sweets, the perfect opportunity to meet someone special! CBC Wiretap Radio Host Jonathan Goldstein is gracing our Temple for the first time, with a hearty reading of his latest book
“Ladies and Gentlemen, the Bible!’. You do not want to miss an evening with Montreal’s younger, homegrown answer to Woody Allen! If Yoga is your thing or is about to be, now is the chance to discover and fall in love with a unique style with Kabbalah Yoga, created and taught by Audi Gozlan! Truly, we have worked long and hard to bring winter to a close with a bursting Spring calendar, filled with inspired goodies to enjoy with family, friends, children, grandparents, teens and new babies! Please join us and may Spring “spring” ever eternally in your Hearts. Warm regards, Anita Anita Bensabat 514-937-3575, ext. 212 Anita@templemontreal.ca
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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LEADERSHIP NEWS
From the Desk of the Director of Education... The gift every child deserves: a true understanding of their identity.
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s parents, we strive to offer our children a myriad of experiences and opportunities to ensure that they grow into well-rounded adults. We shuttle them to hockey games, music lessons, dance classes and more. But, as we nurture their athletic, creative and musical talents, we often forget the importance of providing our children with a religious and cultural identity. That’s where Torah School comes in. Unlike other extra-curricular activities, Torah School offers children the unique opportunity to connect with other Jewish children, develop a sense of belonging to the Jewish community, appreciate the joy and meaning behind the Jewish festivals, and express their spirituality through art and song - all in a warm, welcoming, and stressfree environment. Because we understand how busy today’s families are, Temple’s Torah School has made Jewish learning not only fun and exciting, but also convenient and accessible. We provide our students with an enhanced understanding of our heritage and traditions, as well as knowledge of Hebrew reading and language. Our highly qualified teachers foster a love for Judaism, a connection to our history, and bring meaning to each holiday. In order to make our Torah School Montreal’s premier supplementary Jewish education institution, Temple has invested heavily in a brand new and highly effective Hebrew and Jewish Studies curriculum that was designed specifically for Reform congregational schools. The program is also unique in that it is child-centered and allows each student to progress at his or her own pace. New curriculum: CHAI/Mitkadem This year, Temple’s Torah School introduced the new CHAI/Mitkadem curriculum. The CHAI program offers a versatile, adaptable Jewish studies curriculum that is designed to nurture an enduring understanding of values that have lifetime meaning for all Jews. Mitkadem, CHAI’s Hebrew language learning counterpart, offers a new and innovative approach to teaching and learning Hebrew and prayer. Both programs are generating enthusiasm and excitement from teachers, students and parents across North America.
Ultimately, our children will choose to accept or reject their Jewish heritage as adults, but whatever path they choose, the only way we can feel confident that they comprehend the significance of their decision is to give them the gift of growing up with a true understanding of their identity. Not the “afternoon school” you remember! Clearly, Temple’s fun, relaxed and experiential Torah School is not the same “afternoon school” many of us attended as children. Our program makes Jewish learning fun, meaningful and stress free. Melanie Alter Our students look forward to our weekly classes and our graduates leave our school as knowledgeable, responsible and committed Reform Jews. Why choose Torah School for your child? We want our children to grow up feeling at home in the world at large, as well as in their own Jewish community. Ultimately, they will choose to accept or reject their Jewish heritage as adults, but whatever path they choose, the only way to feel confident that they comprehend the significance of their decision is to give them the gift of growing up with a true understanding of their identity. We hope that you will take a moment to think about how your child(ren) could benefit from learning to read and pray in Hebrew, understand our Bible stories, celebrate the Jewish holidays and participate fully both in worship and in ongoing dialogues relevant to the past, present and future of liberal Jewish life.
Temple’s Torah School offers the following programs for children in Junior Kindergarten through Grade Seven: Junior Torah School (4-5 year olds) Saturday mornings from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Junior Torah School offers a fun-filled introduction to Jewish learning and Temple life, taught through Hebrew language, songs, art and stories. continued on next page
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THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
LEADERSHIP NEWS Torah School (6-12 year olds) Saturday Mornings from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM The Torah School offers a cutting-edge Jewish studies and Hebrew curriculum specifically developed for Reform congregational schools and based on the key concepts and values of Jewish life. Our innovative Hebrew program is child-centered, allowing each child to progress at his/her own pace.
Two-Year Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program (Grades 6 and 7) Grade 6: Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM at Temple, and: West Island: Monday afternoons: 4:30 PM-6:30 PM Temple: Wednesdays from 4:30 PM-6:30 PM Grade 6 students attend Saturday morning classes in Judaic studies, and enjoy art and music activities, as well as holiday programming and weekly 11:30 AM services. The program’s goal is to develop a sense of Jewish life, synagogue life, and mitzvah in our students. Grade 7: West Island: Mondays from 4:30 PM-6:30 PM Temple: Wednesdays from 4:30 PM-6:30 PM The grade 7 program consists of Judaic studies in English, including mitzvah and core Jewish knowledge, as well as occasional special services. Six Family Education Satur-
days acquaint parents and children with the meaning of bar/bat mitzvah from a spiritual, musical and artistic perspective. Temple also provides 18 half-hour one-on-one sessions for Bar and Bat-Mitzvah preparation.
Kabbalat Torah Confirmation Program (Grades 8 and 9) Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Kabbalat Torah is a Confirmation program for students in Grades 8 and 9. Confirmands meet with their teacher and Rabbi each Saturday to glean insights into Jewish living from the weekly Torah portion, as well as to study Jewish law and discuss contemporary issues.
Summer Pre-Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program: Learn to Read Hebrew! Mondays or Wednesdays from 4:30-6:00 PM Mondays ( July 4- Aug. 8 ) in the West Island Wednesdays, ( July 6 – Aug. 10) at Temple 6-week session: $60 + tax To learn more about Temple’s Torah School, please contact me. Melanie Alter 514-937-3575, ext. 210 Melanie@templemontreal.ca
From the Desk of the Director of Marketing and Communications...
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hope that you will enjoy reading this issue of The Voice as much as I enjoyed putting it together There is truly “something for everyone at Temple” these days, so it’s more important than ever that our readers are able to quickly and easily find what they are looking for in our bulletin. We wouldn’t want you to miss out on any of our exciting programs or events! In addition to keeping our members and the community informed about Temple’s wide variety of programs and activities, I am also working on redesigning our website with the invaluable assistance of Stephen Yaffe, Chairman of Temple’s Marketing Committee. The new site will be launched in phases and will be more user-friendly and interactive than ever. It will contain not only information about Temple life and the myriad of learning, worship and social opportunities that we offer, but also informative sections about the Jewish holidays, ideas for celebrating with your family and friends, traditional holiday and Shabbat recipes and kid-friendly activities to help you share the joy of Judaism with the children in your life. Look for this and much more in the coming months! Please note that I work from my Temple office on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays and from my West Island office on Thursdays and Fridays, but I am reachable at all times at 514-937-3575, ext. 217 or Heidi@templemontreal.ca and I am always happy to hear from our members!
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
Heidi Reinblatt
Heidi Reinblatt 514-937-3575, ext. 217 Heidi@templemontreal.ca
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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LEADERSHIP NEWS
From the Director of Music...
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harles Schultz, the wise and witty creator of the Peanuts comic strip once mused, “Why can’t we get all the people together in the world that we really like and then just stay together?” I am reminded of this sentiment as we say farewell to Garth MacPhee. I would like to acknowledge the contribution of our wonderful organist/pianist who will be leaving Montreal at the end of June to take a position in Halifax, his home town. I know I express the feelings of choir singers and service goers in wishing him success and happiness in his move. Since joining Temple’s music staff, Garth has delighted and moved our congregation with his beautiful playing. His musical intelligence and engagement with the liturgy have made him a pleasure to work with these past few years. Please join Rabbi Lerner, the Kol HaNeshama Choir and me on Friday night, June 17, at 8:15 as we bid Garth a fond farewell. There’s lots happening at Temple musically in the coming months! Here are some highlights: • Friday, May 6 at 5:45 p.m. (Kabbalat Shabbat) the Kol HaNeshama Choir celebrates Yom Ha-atsma-ut (Israel Independence Day) with special music. • Friday, May 13 8:15 p.m. we welcome back the Temple Choral Sextet accompanied on organ. • Friday, May 27 8:15 p.m. features the launching of my Judaic CD, For All These Things. Harpist, Olga Gross, flautist, Lucie Bouchard and pianist, Garth MacPhee accompany several of the selections from the album. For All These Things, which contains twenty-three tracks and over an hour of music, can be acquired after the service. • Friday, June 3 the Temple Choral Sextet returns, accompanied on organ. Confirmation of Torah School’s graduating class will be part of the service. • Wednesday, June 8 10 a.m. our Shavuot service features uplifting festival liturgy. • Friday, June 10 5:45 p.m. we welcome clarinetist, Mark Simons for a freilach Kabbalat Shabbat service. • Friday, June 17 8:15 p.m. Kol HaNeshama Choir bids Garth MacPhee a fond farewell.
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THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
What a fab Purim spiel! Shortly after Temple’s production of Rabbi Lerner’s hilarious script, “A Buddy Holly Purim” last year, Harry Rajchgot declared that he had become inspired to begin work on the 2011 scenario. The result was this year’s Purim’s clever production, “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Rachelle Schubert A Liverpool Purim”. Under the directorship of recent McGill Theatre grad, Julien Naggar, rehearsals were warm, cohesive and fun. Much appreciation for Julien for all the extra time, intelligence and love that he poured into making rehearsals effective and just as much fun as the performance. Let’s have one more round of applause for the cast and crew who, from January, braved blizzards and gave so generously of their time and talents: Barbara Diehl, Brenda Epstein, Cheryl Everett Rajchgot, Donna Pinsky, Elie Garth MacPhee Shapiro, Gaby Samek, Harry Rajchgot, Heather Solomon Bowden, Helaine Haltrecht, Irving Epstein, Jennifer Rose, Joseph El Rayes, Marcia Goldberg, Max Benady-Chorney, Sarah Sinacore, Suzan Carsley, Terri Allister, Wendy Thomas Colourful publicity and program design was the result of Heidi Reinblatt’s creativity. Ricky and his staff worked hard to set up the stage for every rehearsal. Innovative Temple programming cannot thrive without the support and encouragement given by Executive Director, Shellie Ettinger, and President, Alan Knopp. Rabbi Lerner’s enthusiasm and guidance have brought us to the seventh year of lively Purim spieling at Temple. Temple remains the very best place to be at Purim. Please consider joining the cast and crew next year. The Kol HaNeshama Congregational Choir invites new members. Please contact Rachelle for further information.
Rachelle Shubert 514-937-3575, ext. 235 Rachelle@templemontreal.ca
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
ADULT PROGRAMMING
GUEST SPEAKERS
Frank Chalk________________________________
“Mobilizing the will to intervene in Canada and the U.S. to prevent mass atrocities: Lessons learned from analyzing Western response to the crises in Rwanda and Kosovo”. Wednesday, May 4, 2011, 7:00 PM in the Chapel All are welcome. $5 donation at the door. Frank Chalk is a professor of History, Director of the Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies at Concordia, and co-author of “The History and Sociology of Genocide”.
Dine and Discover at Temple: Anant Jesse: “Health & Spirituality” Monday, May 9, 2011 5:45 PM Dinner; 6:15 PM Discussion/Q&A
Admission: $12 per person. A native New Yorker now based in Montreal, Anant Jesse teaches spiritual therapeutics at the NHC Institute and maintains a private practice. He is trained in diagnostics and macrobiotics, has worked with terminally ill patients, and has spent many years in India studying traditional and contemporary methods of self-development. Reservations required by Friday, May 6. For more information or to reserve, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
George Saad: “Egypt Today”_________________
Friday, May 13, 2011, 8:15 PM Services Mr. Saad’s face is a familiar one among Montrealers of virtually all origins. As the host of the Voice of Egypt for the past quarter-century, he has been a constant presence on the city’s multicultural television and radio stations, conducting interviews and reporting news of particular interest to the Egyptian community. Mr. Saad also publishes an Egyptian-language community newspaper and owns a travel agency. Having come to Canada in 1964, he established extensive connections as a liaison between Muslims, Christians and Jews, as well as in the political and diplomatic spheres. Hailed by Quebec Premier Jean Charest as an “Ambassador of Peace”, Mr Saad is a respected Egyptian community leader, as well as the director and producer of The Voice of Egypt. Mr. Saad will discuss what is happening in Egypt today.
Neil Caplan_________________________________
“Bi-nationalism in Palestine/Israel: Origins and Evolution of an Idea” Wednesday, May 18, 2011, 7:00 PM in the Chapel Neil Caplan holds an adjunct position in the History department of Concordia University and is a scholar-in-residence at Vanier College. He is the author of numerous scholarly books and articles. Donations welcome. For more information, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
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THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
David Brody: “Growing up as a gay Orthodox Jew” Wednesday, May 25, 2011, 7:30 PM All are welcome. No entrance fee. In his first novel, “Mourning and Celebration”, K. David Brody tells the fictitious story of his life as it would have been had he been born 100 years earlier as a gay Orthodox Jew in his grandfather’s shtetl. The book was selected as overall runner-up in the 2010 Hollywood Book Festival and awarded first place in the General Fiction category. It is presently being considered for film production. For more information, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
“In the City” Presents an Evening with Jonathan Goldstein Tuesday, May 31, 2011, 7:30 PM Admission: $20.00. Reservations required. Join us for a warm and witty evening with Jonathan Goldstein, host and producer of CBC Radio’s Wiretap, weekly National Post columnist, and frequent contributor to public radio’s This American Life. Mr. Goldstein will read excerpts from his latest book, “Ladies and Gentleman, the Bible!” This collection of whimsically retold stories from the Old Testament has been described as “tales reinvented for the modern, neurotic world that reveal the timelessness and poignancy of these most human of stories”. A question and answer period and dessert reception will follow. For information or reservations, please contact Stefani Novick at 514-342-1234, ext. 7201. continued on next page
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
ADULT PROGRAMMING “In the City” presents Alison Wearing________
author of “Honeymoon in Purdah: An Iranian Journey” Monday, June 13, 2011, 7:00 PM, Community House Entrance fee: $15. Author, playwright, storyteller and yoga practitioner, Ms. Wearing shares her experiences in Iran, where she donned the cloak of Islam to journey beyond revolution, religious fundamentalism and veiled women to uncover the real people of Iran, as told in her bestselling memoir. Q&A period and dessert reception will follow discussion. For information or to reserve, please contact Stefani Novick at 514-342-1234, ext. 7201.
Stephen Scheinberg: “An Optimist Views the Prospects for Peace.”_______________________
Tuesday, June 14, 2011, 7:00 PM in the Chapel Dr. Stephen Scheinberg is Professor emeritus in history at Concordia University and Co-Chair of Canadian Friends of Peace Now. Since his retirement, he has contributed articles and editorials on the Middle East to Radio Shalom, The Canadian Jewish News and The Mark (a prominent online publication).
BOOK REVIEWS
Book Lovers Forum II: Cheryl Braganza reviews “The Music Room: A Memoir” by Narita Devidayal
Book Lovers’ Forum II: Rona Davis reviews “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” by Jamie Ford
Wednesday, May 11, 2011, 9:30 AM
Wednesday, June 1, 2011, 9:30 AM
Admission: $8.00 at the door. Set in Mumbai , this book follows two journeys through Indian classical music. Author Devidayal, a Princeton graduate who is now working as a journalist at the Times of India, was a gifted singer who lacked the passion to pursue the art professionally. At the age of ten, she was taken to a red-light district for lessons with Dhonudutai, the lasting living woman disciple of the finest Indian classical singer of the 20th century. We learn how ancient traditions and life’s lessons are passed between generations, with details of the sights, sounds and social stigma faced by female singers in India. Coffee and pastry is served at 10:00 AM. Chairperson: Vivianne M. Silver.
Admission: $8.00 at the door. A multi-layered debut epic narrated by an Asian adolescent, focusing on a tumultuous time in the American West, when fears were acute, spies were imagined everywhere and American citizens targeted their hatred towards the Japanese and Japanese Americans. Ford’s bitter-sweet novel brings history to light and is filled with love, family dynamics, racism, war, injustice, subtle humour and endearing characters. Coffee and pastry is served at 10:00 AM. Chairperson: Vivianne M. Silver.
ADULT EDUCATION
Adult Hebrew Conversation Class____________ May 10-June 21, 2011 7:30 – 9:00 PM (No class June 7, Shavuot) Cost: $85 for Temple members; $95 for non-members. Join us for this fun and educational six-week course. For more information, please contact our Director of Education, Melanie Alter, at 514-937-3575, ext. 210 or melanie@templemontreal.ca
Dialogue Judéo-Chrétien : 15e anniversaire___
Mercredi, le 16 juin 2011, 19 h 00 La contribution est de 7 $. Le dialogue Judéo-Chrétien et le Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom vous invitent à leur conférence qui sera suivie d’une discussion: “Jésus, Juif pratiquant”, présentée par Sonia S. Lipsc et Alain Gignac. Afin de permettre l’aménagement du petit sanctuaire, veuillez confirmer votre présence, soit par téléphone à Louis Charbonneau : 514-484-7662 ou à Thérèse Klein : 514-739-2103, soit par courriel : tklein@videotron.ca
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ADULT PROGRAMMING
Introduction to Judaism Twelve-week course begins Tuesday, May 17, 5:45 PM $250.00 Non-members / $200.00 Members*. *Must be a Temple member on the 1st night of classes for member pricing. Taught by Rabbi Leigh Lerner, this course teaches Hebrew reading and explains the Jewish holidays, life cycle and traditional history. The summer session is open to those entering an interfaith marriage under Temple’s auspices, as well as to anyone who wants to learn more, update or review their Jewish knowledge. Those who simply wish to learn to read Hebrew may attend the first fifteen minutes of each Tuesday’s session. For more information, please contact Sarah Polsky at 514-937-3575, ext. 208 or Sarah@templemontreal.ca LEISURE Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom’s
Aron Museum Presents An event in memory of Alfred Miller
Mother and Daughter Evening - Mother’s Day Mosaics_________
“Your Judaica: What’s it Worth?”
Thursday, May 5, 7:00 PM Advance registration is required. Cost: $45 per person includes all materials. Tweens, teens and adults welcome. Join us for a Girls’ Night Out filled with creativity, fun, snacks and great conversation! Learn to cut ceramic tile, glass and china and glue and grout like a pro. We will be making a 10 x 10” mosaic picture frame that is perfect for Mother’s Day gift giving. Instructor: Sheba Remer. To register, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
Tuesday, May 10, 2011, 7:30 PM
Temple Aron Museum:Your Judaica: “What’s it Worth?”_______
Kerry Shrives of Boston’s Skinner Auction House will evaluate selected pieces.
Join us for an entertaining and educational evening! Evaluation requests must be submitted by Tuesday, May 3. A maximum of 50 items will be appraised, so register early! Cost: $18.00 per person for an evaluation of up to 3 pieces. General Admission is FREE. Refreshments will be served. For more information or to register, please contact Nancy Strohl 514-937-3575, ext. 230 nancy@templemontreal.ca 4100, rue Sherbrooke O., Westmount, Qc. H3Z1A5
An Alfred Miller Memorial Event Tuesday, May 10, 2011, 7:30 PM in the Chapel Registration for appraisals required by May 3, 2011. If you enjoy watching the television series “Antiques Roadshow”, you won’t want to miss this event. Bring in your Judaica treasures and have them appraised by Kerry Shrives, Judaica Department Director at Boston’s Skinner Inc. Skinner is among only a handful of auction houses worldwide to offer fine Judaica at auction. For more information, please visit www.skinnerinc.com. A maximum of 50 items will be appraised, so reserve your evaluation spot as early as possible! Appraisal fee: $18.00 per person for an evaluation of up to 3 pieces. General Admission is free. Refreshments will be served.
Speed Dating for Jewish Singles Aged 20-35___________________ Thursday, May 12, 2011, 7:30 – 9:30 PM, Community House Cost: $18 per person. Looking for a fun and easy way to meet people in your age group? Join us for a great evening of entertainment and speed dating excitement– you never know who you’ll meet! Advance registration is required to ensure an equal ratio of men and women. For information or to register, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca. (Please note: a similar event for those aged 35+ to follow shortly.)
Shuli Natan Live in Concert!_________________________________ Saturday, May 14, 2011, 8:15 PM, Community House Tickets: $18.00 per person. Join us for a special Melaveh Malkah concert with Shuli Natan, original singer of Yerushalayim Shel Zahav. Her impressive repertoire tells Israel’s story through song and includes songs in Ladino and a number of Shlomo Carlebach melodies. The concert will be followed by a special Havdalah ceremony and dessert reception. Tickets will be available at the door at 8:15 p.m., but we thank you for ordering yours in advance. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
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ADULT PROGRAMMING Kabbalah Yoga – Five-Session Beginners’ Class_ May 25- June 29, 2011 (no class June 8, Shavuot) Cost: $75.00 for 5-session package. Each class is one hour long. Registration required by May 18, 2011. Day and time TBD according to interest. A minimum of 8-10 participants is necessary in order for the course to be given. Participants are asked to bring a towel, water and yoga mat and to wear comfortable clothes and no shoes. Instructor: Audi Gozlan.
Weekly Bridge at Temple____________________ Fridays, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Cost: $10 per person includes lunch. Join us for a fun and challenging game every week in Community House, 395 Elm Avenue. For more information, please call Rosie at 514-937-3575, ext. 213.
Rachelle Shubert’s CD Launch______________ Friday, May 27, 2011, 8:15 PM Please join us for the launch of our own Cantorial Soloist and Music Director, Rachelle Shubert’s, new Judaic CD, “For All These Things”. The CD showcases Rachelle’s vocal versatility with a unique selection of Judaic songs of love and inspiration that spans the ages. The CD will be available for purchase following services.
GET INVOLVED NEW! Montreal Jewish Interfaith Family Forum_____________________________ One of Temple’s newest initiatives is aimed at offering programs of interest to couples who have extended families of different faiths. Programs will focus on finding fun and meaningful ways to share holidays and celebrations and will also create opportunities to discuss shared issues and challenges. If you would like to join our committee or simply have suggestions to offer, please contact Heidi at 514937-3575, ext. 217 or Heidi@templemontreal.ca
Calling all Softball Players___________________________________________________ This year, Temple will be part of a six-team synagogue softball league. We are looking for members or children of members aged 17 and up to join our team. We will be playing a total of 8 games on Sunday mornings in Cote St. Luc throughout the months of July and August 2011. If you are interested, please contact Howard at 514-937-3575, ext. 201.
Calling all Writers_________________________________________________________________________ Have you written a story that you’d like to share? Harvest-Ha’Asif, Temple’s literary anthology, is always looking for written material by budding writers. Send your prose, poetry, fact, fiction, memoir, travelogue, humour or other original work to theharvest@sympatico.ca or bring a hard copy to Temple’s Program Director, Anita Bensabat. The next deadline is May 31, 2011 for publication in our 6th edition, planned for next Succot (the Harvest festival).
Tall on ideas but short on time?_______________________________ Temple offers countless opportunities for members young and old to share their thoughts and talents and as much or as little time as they choose with one of our many groups and committees. To find out more about how you can get involved, please contact Heidi at 514-937-3575, ext. 217 or Heidi@templemontreal.ca
The “Friendly Visiting Committee” is mandated to visit the sick and shut-ins of our community and provide in-home stimulation for these individuals. Our volunteers offer companionship, support and a friendly ear to those in need. If you know of anyone who would benefit from a friendly visitor or if you would like to volunteer your time to make these friendly visits, please contact Mona Kaufmann at 514-842-3939.
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CHILD AND FAMILY PROGRAMMING EARLY CHILDHOOD
Music with Jennifer (6 mos-3 yrs)
Shabbat Shalom (18 mos-3 yrs)
Tuesday mornings, 10:00 - 10:45 AM
Friday mornings from 10:00 - 11:30 AM
Join the award-winning Jennifer Gasoi and her guitar for a fun-filled session of interactive songs, stories and games. This session: April 26- June 7, 2011 (no class May 24).
Are you the parent or grandparent of a preschooler aged 18 months to 3 years? If so, why not join us for a fun and educational Shabbat celebration? Activities include music, arts and crafts and great ideas for celebrating Shabbat at home. This session: April 6- July 15 (no class June 24 or July 1).
Mom & Tot (0-2 yrs) Tuesday mornings from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Got a little one at home? Want to get out and meet other parents and tots? Just bring a brown bag lunch and drop by each Tuesday morning to spend some quality time in our clean, well-equipped, “nut-free” environment. We provide the coffee, snacks, toys, games and music! No registration required; no charge. Everyone welcome! Last class before summer break: June 14, 2011. FAMILY EDUCATION AND ACTIVITIES
Mother and Daughter Evening - Mother’s Day Mosaics________________________________________ Thursday, May 5, 2011, 7:00 PM. Advance registration required.
Cost: $45 per person includes all materials. Tweens, teens and adults welcome. Bring your mother, daughter, aunt, sister or friend and join us for a Girls’ Night Out filled with creativity, fun, snacks and great conversation! We will be making a 10 x 10” mosaic picture frame that is perfect for Mother’s Day gift giving. Learn to cut ceramic tile, glass and china and glue and grout like a pro. Instructor: Sheba Remer. To register, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
Family Yom Ha’Atzmaut Celebration________________________________________________________ Saturday, May 7, 2011, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Everyone welcome. Free admission. Advance registration required. Come celebrate the birth of the State of Israel! Join us for a morning of fun family activities, including crafts, games, dancing, a parade and delicious Israeli treats. For more information or to register, please contact Melanie Alter at 514-937-3575, ext. 210 or melanie@templemontral.ca
FREE Tutoring!!___________________________________________________________________________ Tuesdays, 4:00-7:00 PM at Temple, beginning Tuesday, May 10, 2011
For students in Kindergarten through High School. Subjects include French, English, Hebrew, Math, Science and History. First 2 weeks are drop-in; subsequent sessions by appointment. FREE for Temple members; $20/3 hours for non–members. For more information, contact Melanie Alter at 514-937-3575, ext. 210 or melanie@templemontreal.ca
Torah School Closing Picnic________________________________________________________________ Saturday, May 14, 2011, 11:30 AM
Torah School students and their families are invited to celebrate another successful year of fun and Jewish learning at a picnic in the park, weather permitting. In case of inclement weather, picnic will take place inside Temple.
Shavuot Ceremony and Ice Cream Social___________________________________________________ Tuesday, June 7, 2011 7:15 to 8:00 PM - Ice Cream Social, Community House- All ages welcome 8:00 to 8:30 PM - Shavuot ceremony in the sanctuary
Who can resist make-your-own ice cream sundaes - or a holiday whose customs dictate that we eat them? Not that anyone needs an excuse to eat ice cream, but on Shavuot, it is customary to eat dairy foods, so come join us as we enjoy the sweetest of dairy treats. Afterwards, join us in the Sanctuary to change the Torah covers to the traditional white for Shavuot and gather to light the festival lights, open the ark, and commit ourselves, one and all, to the Ten Commandments. Please see Shabbat and Holiday Celebrations page for an explanation of why it is customary to eat dairy foods on Shavuot.
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CHILD AND FAMILY PROGRAMMING PARENT EDUCATION
Corrie Sirota: “The Internet: Friend or Foe?”________________________________________________ Tuesday, May 17, 2011, 7:30 PM, Community Hall
Cost: $10.00 at the door Parenting expert Corrie Sirota will provide invaluable advice to parents about teaching their children to use the Internet safely and protecting them from online predators and cyber-bullies. Everyone welcome. For more information, please contact Anita at 514-937-3575, ext. 212 or anita@templemontreal.ca
SHABBAT AND HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS Early Kabbalat Shabbat Service and Yom Ha’Atzmaut Dinner__________________
Friday, May 6, 2011 5:45 PM services. Everyone welcome. 6:30 PM- optional light Shabbat dinner, $15.00 per person. Bring the entire family for a spirited Kabbalat Shabbat service as Temple’s choir, Kol Haneshama, presents a program of Israeli songs in honour of Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. We will also be trying out the new Reform siddur, “Mishkan Tefilah”. Services will be followed by an optional light Shabbat dinner that will conclude by 7:30 PM. Dinner reservations are required by Monday, May 2. Please contact Rosie at 514-937-3575, ext. 213 or rosie@templemontreal.ca. *Please note that there will be no 8:15 PM service on this evening.
Shavuot Ceremony and Ice Cream Social______________________________
Tuesday, June 7, 2011 7:15 to 8:00 PM - Ice Cream Social in Community House 8:00 - Shavuot cderemony in the Sanctuary Who can resist make-your-own ice cream sundaes – or a holiday whose customs dictate that we eat them? Not that anyone needs an excuse to eat ice cream, but on Shavuot, it is customary to eat dairy foods, so come join us as we enjoy the sweetest of dairy treats. Afterwards, join us in the Sanctuary as we change the Torah covers to the traditional white for Shavuot. We will then gather as a congregation to light the festival lights, open the ark and commit ourselves, one and all, to the Ten Commandments. Wondering why we eat ice cream on Shavuot? Here’s the answer from Rabbi Lerner: Shavuot celebrates receiving the Torah at Mt. Sinai. Torah is likened to milk: “Like honey and milk [the Torah] lies under your tongue” (Song of Songs 4:11). Just as milk has the ability to fully sustain the body of a human being (i.e. a nursing baby), so too the Torah provides full “spiritual nourishment” for the soul. The gematria (numerical value) of milk in Hebrew, chalav, is 40. Dairy foods on Shavuot commemorate the 40 days that Moses spent on Mount Sinai receiving the Torah. Another name for Sinai is Har Gav’nunim, mountain of majestic peaks. In Hebrew, cheese is gevina, etymologically related to Gav’nunim. Of course, after Sinai, we began our 40 year march to the Land of milk and honey, Israel. These are among the many reasons for milk on Shavuot, but do you really need a reason to eat ice cream? Come join us!
Shavuot Day____________________________________________________________
Wednesday, June 8, 2011 9:15 AM Dairy breakfast 10:00 AM Services and Yizkor
Early Kabbalat Shabbat Service and Dinner_________________________________________________ Friday, June 10, 2011, 5:45 PM services. Everyone welcome. 6:30 PM- optional light Shabbat dinner, $15.00 per person. Join us for a musical Kabbalat Shabbat with Klez Clarinetist Mark Simon. The entire family will enjoy this service filled with joyful music and songs you can sing along with. Services will conclude by 6:30 pm and be followed by an optional Shabbat dinner, which will conclude by 7:30 pm. Dinner reservations are required by Monday, June 6. Please contact Rosie at 514-937-3575, ext. 213 or rosie@templemontreal.ca *Please note that there will be no 8:15 PM service on this evening.
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MEMORABLE PURIM MOMENTS
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MEMORABLE PURIM MOMENTS
Thank you to our Torah School students and teachers for making the beautiful Mishloach Manot baskets that were delivered to West Island families for Purim.
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B’NAI MITZVAH We congratulate our B’nai Mitzvah and their families on this special milestone in their lives. We look forward to our b’nai mitzvah becoming members of the Confirmation class and serving the Jewish, religious and community cause with devotion and commitment
Alex Mintzberg
MAY 5, 2011 daughter of Carmele and Sheldon Mintzberg
I go to Miss Edgars and Miss Cramps School in Westmount. What I liked the most about preparing for my bat mitzvah is the idea of becoming a woman and all the advantages of becoming one, such as having more responsibility. An important lesson that I learned from my bat mitzvah studies is that the key to success is to work hard and that is the reason why I came this far in my bat mitzvah studies. If there is one commandment that I would like to emphasize in my Jewish life it is that God exists and how important he is to our life. Having a bat mitzvah is important to me. It teaches me that I can keep a healthy Jewish lifestyle. I can also say I completed my torah portion and that makes me feel amazing. My favourite school subject is English. Dance is my favourite hobby. Something that the congregation doesn’t know about me is that I love spending time with my family and friends! I have volunteered at Meals on Wheels. I like to help the hungry. I believe that all children should have proper nutrition in order to learn well in school.
Jessica Mintzberg
MAY 5, 2011 daughter of Carmele and Sheldon Mintzberg
I attend Trafalgar School for Girls. What I liked most about preparing for my bat mitzvah was learning more about my re-
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ligion, equality and freedom. The most important thing that I learned from my studies is concerning equality. I learned about what the Jews had to go through and how they weren’t treated properly. Honour thy father and thy mother is the commandment I identify with the most . My family protects me and makes sure I have everything I need to do my best. I appreciate and love them a lot. It’s important to me because they helped me to be who I am today, without them I wouldn’t be here right now. Having my bat mitzvah is very special to me because I am very proud to be a Jewish woman. I like to share my torah with everyone. My favourite school subjects are Science and English. I like to be with my friends, dance, swim and more. I love basketball, soccer and volleyball. My hobby is travel. I have many great memories of family trips together. I’d like to let everyone know that my parents and siblings are my whole life. The charities I would like to help are those connected with the under privileged, homeless and hungry. Everyone should have a roof over their head to stay warm and a place to call home.
religion, I become a man when I am 13 and I assume more responsibility for my life. My favourite sport is basketball, because it energizes me. I play basketball at SHS and am enrolling in a spring program outside of school. My favourite hobby is music and spending time with my dog, Austin. For my bar mitzvah I am donating my time and efforts to the SPCA. I am an animal fan and despise animal cruelty. I would like to give tzedakah to the S.P.C.A because, as I said before, I am against animal abuse. What the S.P.C.A does is take the abused animals to a safe place and then find them homes.
Miles Greenberg MAY 14, 2011 son of Phoebe Greenberg
Kyle Mintzberg
MAY 5, 2011 son of Carmele and Sheldon Mintzberg
I am a student at Selwyn House, also known as SHS, located in Westmount. I have attended SHS since Kindergarten. What I liked most about preparing for my bar mitzvah was learning the language of my heritage, together with the traditions. I will also get to read from the Torah for the first time. An important lesson that I have learned from my studies is to give to my community. For example, to help some or one of my neighbours in need. In my opinion, Thou shalt honour thy parents is the most important commandment . It means to honour and respect my family, as well as my family name. Having a bar mitzvah is important to me because according to the Jewish
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I attend St Georges School of Montreal. What I liked most about preparing for my bar mitzvah was learning a new, fascinating language. I learned the value of the Jewish tradition and how to be part of such an incredible legacy. The commandment that I would like to emphasize in my life is kindness to animals because I find it important to respect all other species as you would your own. Having a bar mitzvah is important to be because it is a good way to put life into perspective: hearing and speaking about those who came before me helps me to understand why I am here today. My favourite school subjects are Theatre and Art and my favourite sport is fencing. I love to be creative and involved in the arts and my ambition is to pursue this one day. The tzedakah I would like to contribute to is the Irving Greenberg Theatre and Shirley E. Greenberg women’s health centre, which are two organizations named after my grandparents. It is to them and everyone else who has devoted their lives to human contribution and philanthropy that I would like to dedicate my Bar Mitzvah. continued on next page
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B’NAI MITZVAH ment and nature are very important issues for me. I would like to give tzedakah to JNF (planting trees in Israel) and the David Suzuki Foundation (promoting environmental awareness and change).
Aaron Sossin
MAY 21, 2011 son of Emma Saffman and Wayne Sossin
I go to Royal West Academy in Montreal West. What I liked most about preparing for my Bar Mitzvah was debating with my teachers about Jewish ethics. One important lesson that I learned from my Bar Mitzvah studies is that I may not be the best singer in the world. If there is one mitzvah that I would like to emphasize in my Jewish life, it is helping people who are weaker than you. Having a Bar Mitzvah is important to me because I am becoming a Jewish man. My favourite school subjects are Science, History and English. I like to play soccer, tennis and electric guitar. I go to Camp George (a Reform Jewish camp) every summer and I love it. I would like to give tzedakah to the Fondation Paul Gérin-Lajoie (PGL), which supports education in poor countries.
Justin Segal
JUNE 2, 2011 son of Rosanna Murano and Dean Segal
I attend Laval Junior High School in Laval, Quebec. What I liked most about preparing for my Bar Mitzvah was meeting new people. One important lesson that I learned from my Bar Mitzvah studies was improving my basic understanding of Jewish life in synagogue. If there is one Bar Mitzvah commandment that I would like to emphasize in my Jewish life, it is understanding and respect for my family. Having a Bar Mitzvah is important to me because it continues the tradition of having a Bar Mitzvah. My favourite school subject is Math and I like to play soccer and go fishing with my dad. I do volunteer work helping younger children at my old school. I would like to give tzedakah to the Montreal Children’s Hospital and to animal shelters.
Matthew Kfouri
MAY 28, 2011 son of Laurie Shapiro and Georges Kfouri
I attend St. George’s School in Westmount. The thing I liked best about preparing for my Bar Mitzvah was the Rabbi’s discussions during the Bar Mitzvah breakfasts. One important lesson that I learned from my Bar Mitzvah is that hard work pays off. A mitzvah that I want to emphasize in my life is Tikkun Olam, repair/improve the world. My Bar Mitzvah is important to me because it connects me with my grandfather, my ancestors and my Jewish heritage. My favourite subjects at school are Math and Science. I like Robotics, playing the bass clarinet and reading. My favourite sports are rugby, skiing and karate. Something that I want the congregation to know about me is that preserving and protecting the environ-
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Ben Lawson
JUNE 11, 2011 son of Anita Ubfal and Jim Lawson
I currently attend Laurentian Regional High School in Lachute, I am in secondary one. In studying for my Bar Mitzvah, I very much enjoyed learning Hebrew, mostly it was something proactive, not to mention fun! An important lesson that I’ve learned during my studies is that it is very possible to make connections to many of the characters in the bible concerning morals and ethics. The commandment that I would emphasize in my Jewish life, it is to not steal, or take what is not morally yours. It is important for me to have a Bar Mitzvah. I made a promise
to my grandfather, a Holocaust survivor who passed last May, to continue the tradition. In school, I enjoy playing chess and talking with my friends. I am also active with sports, including hockey, biathlon, and water skiing! On an academic note, I love reading and I am on the honour role. I enjoy all my subjects, but English is my favourite. Here is something I want the congregation to know that is not in this questionnaire: I enjoy writing and I hope to someday publish a book. I would like to give Tsedakah to Meg’s Second Wind. A local organization created to raise funds for Meghynn Norman, a 24 year old with Cystic Fibrosis who requires a double lung transplant. I have already helped raise over $200.00 for the cause with my local school.
Jessica Bloom
JUNE 18, 2011 daughter of Karen Gropper and Robert Bloom
I am a Grade 6 student at Hebrew Foundation School in Dollard des Ormeaux. One of the most memorable parts of preparing for my Bat Mitzvah was Rabbi Lerner’s first breakfast when we talked about where our families came from. That experience made me learn things about my family and our history and made me realize how lucky I am to be living in Canada. I also learned a lot from seeing the other B’nai Mitzvah students’ presentations on their families’ histories. One of my favourite activities at school is the Bible Study Contest. In last year’s contest, there were so many questions on Shelach-Lecha that I thought it would be great to prepare this for my Bat Mitzvah. Some of my other hobbies and interests are soccer, swimming, skiing, tennis, golf, American Idol and Bieber!! My Bat Mitzvah is important to me because my great-grandparents survived the Holocaust and they would be so happy to hear me reading in Hebrew! It has been very hard to choose one charity that I would like to give Tzedakah to. I can think of so many worthy causes. Some projects that are important to me include JNF, Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) Foundation, The Comfy Cozy Fund and the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. continued on next page
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B’NAI MITZVAH
Julian Ritchie
JUNE 25, 2011 son of Susan and Arthur Richie
I presently attend Royal West Academy in Montreal West. I loved learning Hebrew, the prayers and songs in preparation for my Bar Mitzvah. The most important lesson I learned from my studies was that like the Jewish people, great effort and perseverance pay off. The commandment that I feel is most valuable is to respect the people around you, both young and old and you will receive the same respect back. Having a Bar Mitzvah is important to me because it is an important rite of passage for me to go through to become a fully responsible Jewish citizen. My favourite school subjects are Math and Science. Studying and playing violin have been an important part of my life since I was 4 years old and I enjoy it very much. I also love to play hockey, lacrosse and skiing. I also adore my 8 month old puppy and have a wonderful time caring for and playing with her. I found that all the music associated with and as part of my Bar Mitzvah training has provided inspiration for me as a Jewish male and musician. I would like to give to the Montreal Children’s Hospital because children are our future and there is always a need for money for equipment to support this excellent care facility.
Sarah Milstein
JULY 2, 2011 daughter of Anna Masciotra and Steven Milstein
I attend Kuper Academy in Kirkland. What I liked most about preparing for my
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Bat Mitzvah was interpreting the translation for my Torah portion and writing a speech accordingly. I love writing and the speech was my favourite part of preparing for my Bat Mitzvah. From my Bat Mitzvah studies, I learned the importance of being a good role model. Moses and Aaron were punished for a little slip of the tongue because they had an enormous influence over the Jewish population. One mitzvah that I would emphasize in my Jewish life would be not to gossip. Having a Bat Mitzvah is important to me because I am the only girl in my family to read from Torah. My favourite school subjects are English and Drama. My favourite hobbies are dance, music and writing. I absolutely love English class because it teaches me how to be a better author. I’m in the Drama Club and on the competition team at my dance school. I love listening to and performing music. I write my own songs and stories that I intend to have published. I want the congregation to know that I would be reluctant to do my Bat Mitzvah anywhere but Temple Emanuel. Here, it doesn’t matter if you’re male or female, kosher or not, young or old; everyone is involved. I would like to give tzedakah to WWF (World Wildlife Fund), an organization that helps our planet. I strongly believe that this world is not ours to destroy, but ours to protect.
Jeremy Even
JULY 9, 2011 son of Bianca Roberti and Len Even
I attend Lower Canada College in Montreal and am currently in grade 7. My favourite activities are hockey and soccer. What I liked most about preparing for my Bar Mitzvah was practicing with my older brother who did his Bar Mitzvah 8 years ago. We also practiced on SKYPE because he lives in Holland. It was very important to keep up with my studies and weekly homework, also because I wanted to please my tutor Masha! Having a Bar Mitzvah is important to me because my brother and sisters also celebrated their Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and I will be the first to do it in Canada. Our family moved here from Holland in
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2009 and several friends and family will fly in from both Holland and Israel to help me celebrate this great event! In honour of my grandmother who died last year, I would like to donate a portion of the money I receive to the Parkinson’s Society of Canada.
Katrina Bromberg
JULY 30, 2011 daughter of Christiansen Ignacio and Craig Bromberg
I attend Lower Canada College in NDG. What I liked most about preparing for my Bat Mitzvah was understanding more about my religion by reading about my Torah portion. One important lesson I learned from my Bat Mitzvah studies was to always practice what you know or else what you know will all go away. If there is one mitzvah that I would emphasize in my Jewish life, it is “Honour your father and mother.” This is very important to me because if you don’t honour your parents you’re showing them that you don’t care what they go through for you. Having a Bat Mitzvah is important to me because I am becoming independent and more responsible. My favourite school subject is Art, my favourite hobby is to play soccer and my favourite sport is basketball. Something I want the congregation to know about me that this questionnaire doesn’t ask is that I have 2 younger sisters. I would like to give Tzedekah to the Canadian Red Cross Foundation. They help people all over the world who need help, like in Haiti, Japan and North Africa.
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
CEMETERY NEWS
Keri’ah: The Rending of Clothing Rend: to tear or wrench / to tear apart violently, split
A
ccording to the Torah, one of the essential elements of mourning is the performance of Keri’ah, the rending of the outer garments by the mourners. It is designed to arouse within the mourner and all those pres- J a n e A d a ms R o t h st e in ent, the ability to express their grief, and create an “opening” for the person to release the feelings in his or her heart. The Keri’ah is performed prior to the burial, either just before or during the funeral service or at the grave site. Maimonides notes (Leviticus 10:6) that this tear satisfies the emotional needs of the moment, or else it would not be permitted, as it is a clear violation of the Biblical command not to waste. Keri’ah may also serve as a substitute for the ancient pagan custom of tearing the flesh and the hair, which symbolizes the loss of one’s own flesh and blood in sympathy for the deceased. Who must rend clothing? 1. The following family members are obligated to perform this mandate: father, mother, spouse, son, daughter, brother, sister, half brother and half sister. (When mourning a parent, one tears on the left side, closest to the heart, for parents and children are closest to each other’s hearts. For all others, one tears on the right side.) 2. They must be adults, males above the age of thirteen, and females over twelve. 3. Divorced mates may cut their clothing, but they are not obligated to do so. 4. Son-in-law or daughter-in-law may do so, if this is their earnest desire out of respect for their spouse’s loss. It
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
should be done only if living parents do not object. 5. Bride and groom should not perform this ritual during the first seven days following the wedding. 6. Mentally ill and disabled persons unable to perform the custom are not required to tear their clothing. The procedure: The mourners stand in a row and recite the following blessing: Baruch atah adonai, elohay-nu melech haolam, da-yan ha-emet. Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Ruler of the universe, the True Judge
After the blessing is recited, the officiating person makes the necessary cuts with the help of the mourners who wear the garments on which the Keri’ah was made throughout the Shiva. In our times, the rending of clothing is replaced by the symbolic cut in a tie for men, and in a scarf for women, or a black ribbon may be pinned to the clothing, thus becoming part of the garments of the wearer, and the ribbon is similarly cut. Jane Adams Rothstein Cemetery Chairman
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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MILESTONES MILESTONE BIRTHDAYS - MAY May 3 May 4 May 6 May 7 May 11 May 12 May 13 May 14 May 15 May 16 May 17 May 20 May 21 May 22 May 23 May 27 May 30
Gladys Gubitz Lois Shayne Mark Berkowitz Leonard Pedvis Lois Golfman Hannah Myers Naomi Richer Paul Shinoff Wayne Sossin Phyllis Berkowitz Viviana Fridman Guy Benghozi Sheila Elman Maryse Coutu Viola Frank Friberg Ida Rouben Michael Shinder Judith Kronick Ritva Moidel Stella Ullman Dorothy Flomen Spencer Schatia Annie De Angelis Nancy Flegg Marianne Katz Mervin Kerman Steven Brandspigel Paula Nathens Trevor Wieskopf
MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES - MAY May 4 May 5 May 13 May 14 May 18 May 20 May 22 May 24 May 26
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Leon Solomon and Ginette Quintal - 10 years Stephen and Veronica Brownstein - 35 years Brian and Yvonne Gore - 40 years Lawrence and Barbara Libman - 30 years Neil and Carol Tryansky - 35 years Ben and Eve Sevack - 55 years Jordan Socran and Monica Dery Goldberg - 5 years Martin Smith and Nancy Maklan - 25 years Steven Bernstein and Carol Raza - 15 years Robert and Kathryn Rudy - 20 years
MILESTONE BIRTHDAYS - JUNE June 2 Evelyn Lusthaus June 3 Carole Lax June 4 Claude Rouben Patrick Soussan June 7 Jean Marc Lulin June 8 Bertram Greenford June 9 Una Graham June 15 Leonard Sanders June 20 Rubin Goldbaum June 21 Hinda Letovsky Bess Mayman-Raymond June 22 Mona Kaufmann June 23 Trudi Berger June 24 Aaron Derfel June 25 Murray Katz Erna Samel June 27 Lenny Even Morris Gordon Aren Prupas June 28 Reissa Wasserman June 29 Jewel Poch MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES - JUNE June 2 June 6 June 9 June 10 June 13 June 16 June 17 June 20 June 22 June 23
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
Bram Gordon and Shari Segal - 20 years Lorne Schwartz and Lynda Bell - 10 years Richard Black and Evelyn Jerassy - 20 years Sam and Rosalie Burstein - 40 years Gary Katsof and Melissa Diamond - 15 years Mervin and Miriam Kerman - 55 years Brian and Margaret Kreisman - 15 years Steven and Eva Rosenfield - 35 years Stephen and Sandra Scheinberg - 50 years Stephen and Shari Libman - 25 years Melvyn and Lottie Shevell - 55 years Stephen and Julia Reitman - 35 years Joseph and Susan Davis - 25 years Allan Winikoff and Ilana Kuska - 20 years
June 25 June 27 June 30
Marvin and Joy Krasnow - 50 years Larry and Barbara Weiner - 50 years Gordon and Nancy Rubin - 20 years Norman and Laurrel Wolfe - 60 years
MILESTONE BIRTHDAYS - JULY July 2 July 5 July 6 July 8 July 9 July 13 July 16 July 18 July 19 July 22 July 28 July 31
Therese Klein Nick Stivaletti Ilana Weigensberg Normand Cote Peter Vamos Daniel Obrand Andy Waxman Freda Woolley Henry Altschuler Mary Cohen Sheila Ladenheim Bianca Roberti Marieke Gardner Robert Cooperman William Mauer Rachelle Shubert Gerald Gold Robert Rashcovsky
MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES - JULY July 1 July 4 July 6 July 7 July 11 July 14 July 15
Gavin Grant and Stefanie Levine - 10 years Rene Provost and Shauna Van Praagh - 15 years Michael and Cheryl Tritt - 35 years Peter and Susan Vamos - 40 years Michael Armstrong and Jackie Leibov - 5 years Thomas and Kayla Reiner - 20 years Robert and Susan Heckler - 35 years Judson Majdell and Mandy Steinberg - 15 years Peter and Lucille Gates - 50 years
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
DONATIONS Donations received after the 10th of the month will be acknowledged in the next issue.
ANITA DAVID GROWTH FUND Anita David, in honour of Ruth Steinberg’s special birthday Anita David, in memory of Morris Levine
ARON MUSEUM Brian and Vivian Grant, in honour of the engagement of Alexandre Denault and Debra Strohl, daughter of Nancy Strohl Evy Uditsky, in honour of Sabine Pinkus’ special birthday Hermann Gruenwald, in appreciation Nancy Strohl, in honour of Sabine Pinkus’ special birthday
ART FUND Marcia Goldberg, in appreciation Barbara Morningstar and David Mizrahi, in memory of Morris Levine
RAYMOND AND RITA FELSON GROWTH FUND Vera and David Metrick, in honour of Ray Felson’s special birthday
EVA AND HERMANN GRUENWALD HOLOCAUST FUND Erica Bloom and Walter S. Bloom Gilles Mercier and Sylvie Daigneault Nadia Favara Lee Ann Sacks and Enrico Perugini
STEFFI AND HARRY HALTON GROWTH FUND Steffi Halton, in memory of Julia Levine Steffi Halton, in honour of Norma Cumming’s birthday
GENERAL DONATION Russell Baker Kathleen Morningstar, in honour of Gabriella’s 18th birthday Robert and Bluma Littner, in memory of Menie Colton Robert and Bluma Littner, in honour of Robert and Bluma Littner’s special anniversary Barbara Baron and Hershey Roitman, in honour of Carla and Ronnie Vineberg’s special anniversary In honour of Alan Knopp’s special birthday: Matt Jette and Cindy Dankner Larry and Susan Miller
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
In honour of Bill Taylor’s special birthday: Ruth and Evra Taylor Ruth S. Statner
HIGH KIDDUSH Arlene and Danny Berg, for the baby naming of their granddaughter, daughter of Marco Palma and Liane Schinasi Rita and Ray Felson, in honour of Ray Felson’s special birthday
KAHN FAMILY GROWTH FUND Helen, David and Jonathan Kahn, in memory of Nancy Kahn
MARILYN AND MICHAEL GREEN GROWTH FUND Marilyn and Michael Green, in memory of Morris Levine
MAZEL TOV Karen and Peter Wertheimer, on the birth of their granddaughter, Maya Lennon Seidman-Gavsie Chelsey-Cy Pinchuk and Nicolas Corpart, on the birth of their daughter, Marley Peyton Corpart Chris Pucser and Marissa Langleben, on the birth of their daughter, Sofia Miriam Pucser
MORRIS AND BARBARA LEVINE GROWTH FUND
Russell Grant and Marla Greenspoon, in honour of Russell Grant’s special birthday Israel and Eva Libman, in honour of Israel Libman’s special birthday Margie Golick
RABBI’S DISCRETIONARY FUND Avery Plaw and Jane Danek, in honour of the birth of their children Alexandra Catherine Danek Plaw and Michaela Charlotte Danek Plaw. Sylvia Soyka, in honour of Rabbi Leigh Lerner Eva Kuper, in honour of an aliyah Dr. Fern Azima, sincere condolences to Dr. & Mrs. Frederick Lowy Marcia Goldberg, in honour of her aliyah In appreciation Claire Lerner
SOCIAL ACTION Annoymous donor Barbara Morningstar, in honour of the JWHW Committee In Appreciation Sheila and Bernard Bruman Rachel Polsky
LISE AND MICHAEL SEGAL GROWTH FUND
In memory of Morris Levine: Carol Engel William and Hinda Letovsky Sheila and Paul Pinsler Francie and Murray Krane Brenda Schafer and Family Beatrice and Lionel Victor
Stanley Litwin, in memory of Michael Segal
ELLA AND DR. ROBERT WIENER GROWTH FUND Ella and Dr. Robert Wiener, condolences to Rita Stein
MUSIC FUND Heather Solomon-Bowden and Robert Bowden, in honour of the 25th wedding anniversary of Rachelle and Howard Shubert In Appreciation: Marcia Goldberg
VERA AND DAVID METRICK GROWTH FUND David and Vera Metrick, in honour of David Korbernick’s special birthday
ONEG SHABBAT
Welcome New Members
• Rachel Walters and Michael Simioni • Tara Longtin and Michael Horne • Johanna Faigelman and Jim Graves • Cristina Marques • Sonia Geller and Warren Steiner • Benjamin and Susana Aim • Melanie Marsolais and Paul Chamitoff • Spencer Schatia and Lucy Sanders • Mark Shapiro and Allison Chevalier • Jonathan Shriqui and
Sarah Choquette-Fuks
Esther Dagan, in honour of her special birthday THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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YAHRZEIT YAHRZEIT Ellis and Debbie Basevitz, in memory of Sally Basevitz, Charles Basevitz Norma Betty and Robert Benson, in memory of Bertha Benson, Donald Benson, Ann Shapiro, Julius Shapiro Denny Bergman, in memory of Martin Bergman Myriam Berthoz, in memory of Rene Cassin Aaron and Barbara Blauer, in memory of Muni Blauer Thelma Bogante, in memory of Lily Kaushansky and Jack Bogante Judi and Harold Borts, in memory of Paul Pinkus Marina Breslavska and Vladimir Sapojnikov, in memory of Maria Kushelevitch, Perle Ostrobrod Morris and Carrie Charney, in memory of Hymie Charney Joyce and Jerry Cohen, in memory of Issie Cohen and Doris Wagner Phyllis Cohos, in memory of Ben Cohos Robert and Giovanna Cooperman, in memory of Norman Cooperman Peggy Currie and Irwin Segal, in memory of Anne Segal Maureen and Edward Daniels, in memory of Celia Tucker Gloria David and Stephen Schneider, in memory of Esther Gold Carol and Maxwell De Koven, in memory of Janny Zyk Nancy and Stephen Engels, in memory of David Nadler Marvin and Anette Epstein, in memory of Carole Epstein Beno Eskenazi, in memory of Rachel Eskenazi Beverley Fox, in memory of Emanuel Fox Barbara and Steven Gellis, in memory of Anna Lee Botnick Lorna Gittleson, in memory of Mary Ralph Marcia Goldberg, in memory of Charles Rajnus Rose Golberg, in memory of Harry Glikman
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Marcia Goldstein, in memory of Irving Goldstein Eliot and Betty Goldwarg, in memory of Krayna Goldwarg Margie Golick, in memory of Peter Golick Lynda Gould, in memory of Eric Gould, Winnie Miller Vivian and Brian Grant, in memory of Victor Blake Lucille Gross, in memory of William Gross, Anne Stern Nyla Grossman, in memory of Arnold Grossman Claude and Carol Henle, in memory of Jean Henle, Sam Wittenberg Joan Herschorn, in memory of Norman Herschorn, Gertrude Herschorn Ronnie and Gerard Hirsch, in memory of Helen Marill, Otto Hirsch Bernard Isaacs, in memory of Bernard Amdur, Celia Isaacs Carol and Thomas Kahn, in memory of Frederick Kahn Janis Kerman and Simon Wahed, in memory of Sarina Abdelouahed Sylvia Kirstein, in memory of Irving Kirstein David and Jacqueline Klein, in memory of George Klein Dina Kneller-Gold, in memory of Czeslawa Freundlich David Kobernick, in memory of Abraham Kobernick, Julius Kobernick Martha and Ivan Koltai, in memory of Mariska Kohn Michael and Joy Korenberg, in memory of Rita Korenberg Rhoda Kott, in memory of Mina Davis Barbara Kuper, in memory of Anthony Kuper Eva Kuper and Harvey Rayman, in memory of Anthony Kuper Ronald Lax, in memory of Pauline Lax, Jack Lax Robert Lazarus, in memory of Audrey Lazarus, Dorothy Samit Jackie Leibov and Michael Armstrong, in memory of Howard Leibov
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
William and Hinda Letovsky, in memory of Abie Letovsky, Laura Letovsky Litwack Jean-Claude and Madonna Levy, in memory of Rachel Levy Stanley Litwin, in memory of Stella Litwin Dermer Sydney Lithwick, in memory of Hyman Lithwick, Max Lithwick Jewel and Paul Lowenstein, in memory of Jean Weiner Lisa Marcovici and Alan Juneau, in memory of Mendi Marcovici, Anette Marcovici Judith Mendelsohn, in memory of Jack Klineberg Ritva and Bruce Moidel, in memory of Lauri Ahti Perla Muyal and Mark Penny, in memory of Joseph Gold Hannah Myers, in memory of Louis Lieff, Bernard Lieff Ruth Nadler, in memory of David Nadler Marcia Goldstein, in memory of Ray Nagus Harry and Evelyn Orenstein, in memory of Anna Orenstein, Becky Palefsky Nina Paperman, in memory of Keith John Whyte Berel and Joyce Pedvis, in memory of Eleanor Pedvis Florence and Sydney Pedvis, in memory of Rifka Pollack Sabine Pinkus, in memory of Paul Pinkus Michael Prupas and Betty Palik, in memory of Ibolya Palik Harry Rajchgot and Cheryl Everett Rajchgot, in memory of Ester and Frank Rajchgot, Beatrice and Sam Everett Janice Reid, in memory of Ron Boro Claude and Ida Rouben, in memory of Ovadia Rouben Maurice and Gisele Rouben, in memory of Ovadia Rouben Gordon Rubin, in memory of Ben Rubin Gloria Sacks Silver, in memory of Betty Silver continued on next page
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
YAHRZEIT and YIZKOR Roy Salomon, in memory of Bob Salomon Micheline Salvail, in memory of Allan Zilbert Irena Sandig, in memory of Meyer Sandig, Bronislawa Sandig Carole and Stanley Satov, in memory of Dorothy Pockrass Julia and Michael Sax, in memory of Florence Glickman David and Bonnie Schatia, in memory of Pauline Schatia Simon and Michelle Shatzky, in memory of Sarah Shatzky Barbara Shavick, in memory of Lenard Shavick Nick Shinder and Stephanie Senay, in memory of Stephen Shinder Paul Shinoff and Rhoda Golick, in memory of Molla Shinoff Isabel and Joseph Shuster, in memory of Etta Esar Ana Sinai-Pascal, in memory of Julia Yore
Aubrey Smofsky, in memory of Frances Smofsky Fernanda and Mihail Solomon, in memory of Beila Smilovici Grace Stober, in memory of John Rinzler, Sadye Rinzler Vineberg, Bessie Stober Lynn and Ron Waxman and Family, in memory of William (Sonny) Solomon Magda Weintraub-Landau, in memory of Henri Landau Sondra and Fred Wener, in memory of Barbara and Adolph Green, Mark Wener Irving Wiseberg, in memory of Fay Rosenberg Harry and Sophia Wolkowicz, in memory of Rachel Wolkowicz Miriam Young, in memory of Bess Bennett Albert and Toba Zinman, in memory of Saul Zinman Frances Zyto, in memory of Leo Posman, Cyril Tritt
YIZKOR Dezso Fellegi, died on January 15, 2011, father-in-law and grandfather of David, Zachary and Kai Rosentzveig & Jennifer Fellegi Geula Pariser, died on February 17, 2011, mother and mother-in-law of David Pariser and Elaine Tolmatch Arnold Clark, died on March 4, 2011, father and father-in-law of Steven Clark and Zena Levine Jack Mosel, died on March 11, 2011, brother-in-law of Rita Mosel Morris Levine, died on March 18, 2011, husband of Barbara Levine Suzanne Popliger, died on March 30, 2011, sister of Gerry Lisser
JEWISH WOMEN’S HISTORY WEEK
With great appreciation to the committee members of JWHW and to the Temple congregation and staff. It has been an honour for me to work with you on this inspiring program which, for 15 years, has offered the opportunity to recognize women’s leadership in our community. It has been a privilege and a joy to develop this annual event with you over the last six years, as a co-chair of the event. Thank you for sharing your talents, skill and enthusiasm and for helping to highlight our shared values and provide us with moments which create important memories for us all. -Barbara Morningstar, immediate past co-chair Jewish Women’s History Week Please note that Barbara has made a generous donation to Temple in your honour
Temple wishes to thank Barbara Morningstar for her tireless efforts in organizing and promoting the highly successful Jewish Women’s History Week at Temple for the past six years. TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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KIDS FIRST / TWEENS FIRST
Parents and Tots
I
have to say we’ve had a stellar year up in our second floor room. It is a pleasure to meet the ladies and gents for our Tuesday rendezvous amidst the toys and books. We relish our time together commiserating over bagels and coffee . It is nice to be heard by people who understand you. The group brings a wealth of information, tips, tricks and great secrets that have benefited each of us in turn! Oh, I almost forgot, the kids. They are all happily engaged with each other and the toys! I will be sad to say goodbye in June, when we break for the summer. Until we meet again in September! Look for the fall schedule in the August voice.
at the pictures, they’ll speak a thousand words! Thank you: One cannot throw an extravagance like the one we did without owing someone a debt of thanks. I have the pleasure of being greatly indebt! So many stepped forward to make the bash the success that it was. I am proud to say that when called upon we are a congregation of action . The kids Purim party benefited of the great generosity of:
Purim: In honour of our congregations big birthday, we decided to throw our most ambitious party to date. And did we ever! Besides the obvious: fun; we had inflatable bouncers, carnival booths with prizes, the balloon lady, crafts, raffles, a photo booth, Hamentashen for Haiti, snacks and drinks oh and the rabbi too! It was our best turnout ever! What can I say? Have a look
Kid
Kids First Chanukah P Sunday, December 5, 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM $10.00 per family No reservations neces
Nancy Maklan Susan Saltpeter Denise Grossman Alan Knopp Galia Abehsera Katrina Bromberg Zachary Shine Abagail Shine Josephine Issenman And of the great efforts of: Zac Rosentzveig Marla Greenspoon Vivian Akerib Anita Bensabat Melanie Alter Heidi Reinblatt And the rest of the Temple staff.
Community Hall Temple Emanu-El-Beth S 395 Elm Avenue, Westmount, QC H3Z
MESSAGE FROM THE DUES COMMITTEE According to its by-laws, the Dues Committee “establishes the dues payable by members of Temple and approves any arrangements with individual members for payment of outstanding accounts, as well as write-offs of members’ accounts.” We meet monthly to carry out this mandate. Dues revenue represents Temple’s primary source of income and therefore, it is critical to ensuring Temple’s ongoing activities and operations. However, despite recent revisions and adjustments to our dues policy (e.g. reduced dues for younger members), dues revenue has not increased enough to offset rising costs. I should point out that, while our all-inclusive and tax deductible dues contributions are quite reasonable compared to those of other Montreal synagogues, nearly 20% of Temple members require financial assistance in the form of dues reductions. In order to compensate for this shortfall,Temple has created the Rabbi’s Circle and the Torah Circle for those members who wish to increase their financial support above and beyond their regular annual contribution. By doing so, not only do they ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can be a Temple member, but also that Temple’s range of programs and services can be maintained. When you receive your annual statement this spring, you will also receive more information about the Rabbi’s Circle and Torah Circle, including the benefits of membership. Please give serious consideration to becoming a Circle member.
Kids F
with all t
Sincerely, Mark Oppenheim Chairman, Dues Committee
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THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
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THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
MAY CALENDAR Sunday
1
Monday
Mother’s Day
5
1:00 pmMini Centre
10:00 amMusic with Jennifer
10:00 amStroke Club 10:00 amMini Center 4:30 pmTorah School Westmount 7:00 pmAn Evening with Frank Chalk
9:00 am -B’nai Mitzvah: Jessica, Alex & Kyle Mintzberg Emor Lev 21-24:3
9
1:00 pmMini Centre
11:00 amMom and Tot
10
10:00 amMini Center
7:00 pm-Mother/ Daughter Mosaics
12
10:00 am-Shabbat Shalom 11:00 am- Bridge 5:45 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat-Yom Ha’Atzmaut service & dinner Emor; Lev. 21:124:23
13
10:00 amMini Centre
10:00 amShabbat Shalom
1:00 pmMini Center
11:00 am- Bridge
5:45 pm-Dine and Discover- Anant Jesse- “Health and Spirituality”
10:00 am- Music with Jennifer 11:00 amMom and Tot 7:30 pm“What’s it Worth” 7:30 pm- Adult Hebrew Conversation Class
9:30 am- Book Review- Cheryl Braganza reviews “The Music Room” 10:00 amStroke Club 10:00 amMini Center 4:30 pmTorah School Westmount 5:30 pm-Marriage Information Meeting
16
17
18
19
10:00 amMini Centre
10:00 amStroke Club 10:00 amMini Center
10:00 amMini Centre
10:00 amShabbat Shalom
1:00 pmMini Center
11:00 am- Bridge
1:00 pmMini Centre
11:00 amMom and Tot 5:45 pm Intro to Judaism 7:30 pm - Adult Hebrew Conversation Class 7:30 pm Corrie Sirota: Internet Safety
23
Temple office closed - Victoria Day
24
11:00 amMom and Tot 5:45 pm Intro to Judaism 7:30 pm- Adult Hebrew Conversation Class
29
11
Friday
6
4
10:00 amMusic with Jennifer
22
Thursday
3
4:30 pm-Torah School West Island
15
Wednesday
2
4:30 pm-Torah School West Island
8
Tuesday
30 1:00 pmMini Center
7:30 pm- Speed Dating Event
20
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Lev.26:3-27:34
7:00 pmPeace Now presents Neil Caplan
25
10:00 am- Stroke Club 10:00 am- Mini Center 7:30 pm -David Brody- “Gay and Orthodox”
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service; guest George Saad Lev. 25:1-26:2
26
27
10:00 amMini Centre
10:00 am-Shabbat Shalom
1:00 pmMini Center
11:00 am- Bridge 8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat Service & Rachelle Shubert CD launch Num. 1:1-4:20
Saturday
7 9:00 am-Family Yom Ha’Atzmaut Event 9:00 am- Jewish Ethics with Rabbi Lerner 10:30 am- Shabbat Service 11:30 am- Young Family Service
14
9:00 am- Last DayTorah School 9:00 am- Jewish Ethics with Rabbi Lerner 10:30 amShabbat Service 11:30 am- Torah School Closing Picnic 5:00 pm Miles Greenberg Bar Mitzvah Torah portion: B’Har 8:15 pm Shuli Natan concert
21 9:00 am- Jewish Ethics with Rabbi Lerner 9:00 am- Ped. Day Torah School teachers 10:30 amShabbat Service Aaron Sossin Bar Mitzvah 5:00 pm Olivia Black Bat Mitzvah Torah portion: B’chukotai
28
9:00 am- Jewish Ethics with Rabbi Lerner 10:30 am- Shabbat Service 5:00 pm Mathew Kfouri Bar Mitzvah Shabbat Meverachim Torah portion: Bamidbar
31
10:00 amMusic with Jennifer 11:00 amMom and Tot 5:45 pm Intro to Judaism 7:30 pm- Adult Hebrew Conversation Class 7:30 pm- In the City presents Jonathan Goldstein 7:30 pm- Bar/Bat Mitzvah Information Meeting West Island
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
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JUNE CALENDAR Sunday
Monday
6
5
10:00 amMini Centre
Tuesday
7
Temple office closed 2:00 pm - Shavuot 10:00 am-Music with Jennifer 11:00 amMom and Tot 5:45 pm Intro to Judaism 7:15 pm- Shavuot Ice Cream Social 8:00 pm- Shavuot ceremony
12
13
14
11:00 am-
Mom and Tot
7:00 pm- In the City presents author Alison Wearing
19
Father’s Day
20
5:45 pm - Intro to Judaism 7:00 pmPeace Now presents Stephen Scheinberg 7:30 pmAdult Hebrew Conversation Class
21
Wednesday
Thursday
2
9:30 amRona Davis reviews “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” 10:00 amStroke Club 10:00 amMini Center 7:30 PM - Bar/Bat Mitvah info meeting - Temple
9:00 amJustin Segal Bar Mitzvah Torah portion: Naso; Num. 4:217:89
10:00 amMini Centre
15
16
10:00 amStroke Club 10:00 amMini Center
10:00 amMini Centre
5:30 pmMarriage Information Meeting
22
10:00 amStroke Club
23
29
4 10:30 amShabbat service
5:00 pmKatherine-Anne Kent Bat Mitzvah Torah portion: Naso
11
10:00 am Shabbat Shalom 11:00 am- Bridge
10:30 amShabbat service
5:45 pm- Early Kabbalat Shabbat with Klez clarinetist Mark Simon Num. 8:1-12:16
5:00 pmBenjamin Lawson Bar Mitzvah Torah portion B’haalot’cha
10:00 am Shabbat Shalom
18 10:30 amShabbat service Jessica Bloom Bat Mitzvah Torah portion: Shlach Lecha
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num.16:1-18:32
24
Temple office closed - St Jean Baptiste Holiday
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num. 16:1-18:32
Adult Hebrew Conversation Class
28
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabat service- Rosh Chodesh & Kabbalat Torah (Confirmation) Naso; Num. 4:21-7:89
17
7:00 pm - Dialogue Judéo-Chrétien
Saturday
11:00 am- Bridge
11:00 am- Bridge
7:30 pm-
27
10:00 am Shabbat Shalom
10
9
Temple office closed - Shavuot 9:00 amCongregational Breakfast 10:00 am Shavuot Service & Yizkor
5:45 pm Intro to Judaism
26
3
1
8
Friday
25
10:30 amShabbat service Julian Ritchie Bar Mitzvah Shabbat Meverachim Torah portion: Korach
30
10:00 amStroke Club
5:45 pm Intro to Judaism
30
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
JULY CALENDAR Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
1 Temple Office Closed- Canada Day Holiday
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num.19:1-22:1
3
4
5
6
10:00 amStroke Club
8
7
5:45 pm Intro to Judaism
10
11
12
13
15
14
19
25
26
20
10:00 amStroke Club
22
21
TEMPLE EMANU-EL-BETH SHOLOM
16
23
10:30 amShabbat service Torah portion: Mato
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num.30:2-32:42
27
28
29
30 10:30 am- Shabbat service Katrina Bromberg Bat Mitzvah Torah portion: Mas’ei
10:00 amStroke Club
5:45 pm Intro to Judaism
9
10:30 amShabbat service Jeremy Even Bar Mitzvah Torah portion: Balak
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num.25:10-30:1
5:45 pm Intro to Judaism
24/31
10:30 amShabbat service Sara Masciotra Milstein Bat mitzvah Torah portion: Chukat
10:30 amShabbat service Torah portion: Pinchas
5:45 pm Intro to Judaism
18
2
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num.22:2-25:9
10:00 amStroke Club
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Saturday
8:15 pm- Kabbalat Shabbat service Num. 33:1-36:13
THE VOICE • MAY, JUNE, JULY 2011
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Our Centennial Celebrations continue Wednesday, September 14, 2011 Limited seating! Please see enclosed invitation and reserve today!
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