Edmonton Jewish News - Digital Edition - May 2019 - Home and Garden

Page 1

EDMONTON

Visit us online at edmontonjewishnews.com

Volume 30, No. 04

EJFF celebrates Jewish culture through film The 2019 Edmonton Jewish Film Festival (EJFF) will kick off May 21 and run till May 30 with 9 feature films – all screened at the Landmark Cinema 9 in Edmonton City Centre. The EJFF is a celebration of Jewish culture, identity, religion and history, through film. Organized by the Jewish Federation of Edmonton, the EJFF is one of the largest and most visible Jewish cultural events in our city. The EJFF presents a variety of Jewish-themed dramas, comedies, mysteries and documentaries from all over the world. All are high-quality films, playing in Edmonton for the first time. Guest speakers and special events enhance the film screenings, engaging audiences and giving everyone the opportunity to learn, to question and to gain perspective on Jewish experiences. This year’s lineup of feature films includes: Shoelaces, From Cairo to the Cloud, Tel Aviv on Fire, The Museum, The Last Suit, Leona, The Waldheim Waltz. Between Worlds and Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: The Conductor Zubin Mehta. See page 5 for the complete schedule. In addition to the feature length films, several short films will also be screened. On May 21 (opening night), 100 Faces will also be screened. Short films by Bezalel students celebrating Israeli culture will be screened along with the feature at the matinee on May 26. Journey Birds, The Driver is Red and Last Class in Baghdad will be screened along with feature length films on May 26, May 28 and May 29 respectively. Special guests will enhance the viewing of the films on two nights of EJFF. On May 22 Rabbi Mark Gluckman, spiritual leader of Temple B’nai Tikvah in Calgary will attend the EJFF screening. He is the author of Sacred Treasure: The Cairo Genizah (Jewish Lights, 2011) so his perspective of the film Cairo to the Cloud will be most welcome. On May 30, special guest Alexander Prior, Chief

Continued on page 6 Publication Mail Agreement Number: 40050628

May, 2019

EJHL Red Captures My Son Stanley's Cup!

Edmonton Jewish Hockey League's Red Team poses after winning the championship game. After a hard fought three game playoff series a new champion has been crowned in the Edmonton Jewish Hockey League, EJHL Red. Led by Captain Adam Zepp and leading scorer Liam Muscat, EJHL Red was able to defeat EJHL Green to earn the right to raise My Son Stanley’s Cup. Featuring the Owen brothers on line 3 and the Muscat brothers on line 1, EJHL Red’s family spirit and tenacious playing style served them well and having the opportunity to dethrone the 2018 champions was a perfect cherry on top of a fantastic season. EJHL Green took the path less travelled to the finals this season. After taking the trophy home last year, Green struggled at times this season with a bit of a championship hangover finishing 4th in the regular season. Green, led by Mario Morin refused to allow their standings finish to define their team, defeating the first place and favoured HeAtBaGs in a stunning and entertaining two-game

series, followed by a series deciding shootout. Seeing their window to win was open, EJHL Red grabbed the horse by the reins, and demanded to be heard, a team loaded with veteran talent they came into the finals prepared for victory. Notable holdovers from their previous championship season included Drew Hanson and Daniel Shafran on line 2, both players have a real nose for the net, and are not afraid to dig deep in the corners and win important puck battles in the offensive zone. Colin Muscat, in the second year of his second stint in the Edmonton Jewish Hockey League, was seemingly rejuvenated by getting the opportunity to play in front of his hometown fans, and on a line with younger brothers Dylan and Liam. The elder Muscat almost tripled his scoring output from last year coming close to duplicating his 2009 outputs with the ACME Scrappers.

JLI Series – With All My Heart – begins this month This May, Rabbbi Mendy Blachman of Chabad of Edmonton will offer With All My Heart, a new six-session course by the acclaimed Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) that will examine the Jewish art of prayer and spiritual experience. Beginning Monday, May 6, 2019 at 7:30pm participants in the course will study the history and philosophy of Jewish worship, seeking to discover the deep, elegant structure embedded within the Jewish prayer book and within Judaism’s ancient synagogue traditions. “Responsibilities pull us in so many directions that we seldom get a chance to reflect on our lives, our mission in this world, what’s true, and what really matters to us,” Rabbi Mendy of Chabad of Edmonton, the local JLI instructor in Edmonton told Edmonton Jewish News. “Even much of religion seems to have become routine and devoid of heartfelt feeling and spirituality. This course is out to debunk that notion and reclaim the ‘spirit’ within spiritual practice.” According to JLI’s website, the course promises to “outline profound Jewish prayer

techniques that lend wings to our emotions and words to our yearnings, allowing us to communicate with something much larger than ourselves, and feel comfort and shelter within a reality that’s more whole, more intense, more real, and more beautiful.” “We tend to turn to prayer when we’re out of options, seeking some kind of magical intervention when we’re having trouble dealing with what life throws our way,” explained Rabbi Zalman Abraham, of JLI’s Brooklyn headquarters. “Prayer is meant to be so much more than that. It’s a way to relieve stress; find focus, clarity, and connection to a raw and vulnerable place deep within us; or even just to start each day from a positive, humble, and grateful frame of mind.” With All My Heart explores questions such as: What is Jewish prayer? How do we achieve intimacy with G-d? What is the mystical meaning, power, and impact of our prayers? If prayer is a journey, what is its destination? And how do we practice focused mindfulness while engaging in our day-to-day responsibilities?

Rabbi Laibl Wolf, founder and dean of Spiritgrow and author of Practical Kabbalah, commented about the course, “Talking to G-d, or discovering the deeper self, is not taught or experienced by most Jews in a lifetime. It is therefore heroic of JLI to tackle this gap and bridge it with an excellent course that includes experiential elements like meditation.” Like all JLI programs, this course is designed to appeal to people at all levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship. Every class is a standalone subject, so you can benefit from every class independently. Interested students may call 780.200.5770 or visit www.ChabadEdmonton.org for registration and for other course-related information. A delicious dinner is served at 7:00 pm. First lesson is free of charge with no obligation to continue!


Page 2

Edmonton Jewish News

edmontonjewishnews.com Publication Mail Agreement No. 40050628 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Circulation Department: 102, 10155 114 Street NW Edmonton AB T5K 1R8 E-mail: edmjnews@shaw.ca Tel: (780) 421-7966

May 07, 2019

Yom Hashoah service in Edmonton

All rights reserved. No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Editor. Edmonton Jewish News is published by 320754 Alberta Ltd.

Volume 30, Number 4, May 7 2019 PUBLISHER / EDITOR: Deborah Shatz ADVERTISING: Daniel Moser FOUNDING PUBLISHER: Barry Slawsky

For change of address, please send both old and new addresses. We welcome your stories, pictures, artwork and opinions. Please send submissions to our office at the address above.

Next deadline: June 3, 2019

Beth Shalom welcomes Rabbi Steven Schwarzman The Board of Directors of Edmonton Beth Shalom Synagogue is pleased to announce that Rabbi Steven Schwarzman will be joining Beth Shalom Synagogue as their Rabbi effective July 1, 2019. Rabbi Schwarzman comes to Beth Shalom from Congregation Beth El in Montreal, Quebec. Prior to Rabbi Steven serving as Rabbi at Beth El, he Schwarzman served congregations in Toronto, Massachusetts and Maine. The Rabbi and his wife Bettina have lived in Israel, the United States and Eastern Canada. The Rabbi was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in New York and has degrees in Jewish Studies from the University of Jerusalem and the University of Pennsylvania. He has authored four books and numerous articles. “We wish everyone who is part of Beth Shalom and, in particular Rabbi Steven Schwarzman and Bettina, a hearty Mazal Tov as we begin our new journey together,” stated Beth Shalom President Lana Black. “May we go from

strength to strength. With the Rabbi’s knowledge, leadership, energy and positive outlook we look forward to Rabbi Schwarzman guiding our congregation forward in an environment where each and every congregant has the opportunity to build a meaningful Jewish life The Jewish community gathered on May 2,Yom Hashoah, to commemorate the through prayer, learning victims and survivors of the Holocaust with a candlelighting service, a film and and Tikkun Olam.” heartfelt readings by second generation survivors and leaders in the Rabbi Schwarzman and community. Bettina are excited to be moving to western Canada and becoming part of the message of a new beginning for our people and for us, Beth Shalom kehila. because we see ourselves, also as having personally left “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining the people of Beth Egypt. May our new beginning together bring us new growth Shalom as your rabbi this summer,” he remarked. “Bettina as human beings and as Jews.” and I were impressed from the start with the good work that Rabbi Schwarzman made aliyah to Israel in 1982 where so many of you do at Beth Shalom and we look forward to he met his wife Bettina, who made aliyah from Sweden. His becoming part of this wonderful community. first career was with an Israeli software company, where he “My first and very pleasant task will be to get to know began as a technical writer and later sold and managed each of you when we arrive. I look forward to seeing you in training projects. He served in the IDF and now two of his shul, to inviting you to our home (once we find one), to children have done the same. Another has volunteered as a hearing your stories and to teacher in an Israeli development town for a year and all four working with each of you to of them have been campers and then counsellors at Camp help Beth Shalom and all of Ramah. He and Bettina are now also ecstatic grandparents. its members grow. On behalf of the entire Jewish Community of Edmonton “We have just finished we extend a warm welcome to Rabbi and Bettina observing Pesach, with its Schwarzman.

Moving? Moved? Are you new to the community? Don't miss a single issue of Edmonton Jewish News. Just email your name, new address and old address to edmjnews@shaw.ca.


May 07, 2019

Edmonton Jewish News

Page 3

JNF Gala funds an urban nature site in Kiryat Shmona JNF of Edmonton is hosting the 2019 Negev Gala on June 18, 2019 at the Fantasyland Hotel Ballroom, West Edmonton Mall. Honourees Freya and Lewis Wasel have been active leaders in the Jewish community of Edmonton since arriving here in 2000. They are exemplary role models in their dedication to community, family and Israel. Proceeds from the Edmonton gala will go toward a neglected cement canal in the Upper Galilee that is being transformed into a beautiful urban nature park near Kiryat Shmona, which is situated less than four kilometers away from the Lebanese border. The park will serve as a green lung for local residents and will attract visitors from all over Israel who will come to enjoy this green gem of nature and the vistas of Nahal Iyun. Local residents call this region “Airplane Park”, for an old Israeli Air Force airplane that was stationed here in the past. The airplane was moved to another site years ago, but the name remained. Development plans include a promenade along the Nahal Iyun stream, small bridges, wading pools, hiking trails, bicycling paths, observation points, sitting corners, picnic facilities, gardening and lighting. The park is being developed with the support of JNF Canada, and it will be the flagship project at the Negev Dinner that will take place in Edmonton on June 18. The evening honourees, Freya and Lewis Wasel, are pleased to be contributing to this worthwhile project. “My husband and I are so happy to be part of the park development project, which will provide Kiryat Shmona and other local residents with a recreation site that they need and are so deserving of,” Freya said during a recent visit to the site. A number of entities cooperated in order to carry out the project, including the Lake Kinneret Authority, the Open Spaces Foundation, the Kiryat Shmona Municipality and KKL-JNF. Lake Kinneret Authority Project Director Guy Koller welcomed the honoured guest and explained: “Besides the importance of the park for local residents and visitors, this project will also make an important contribution to the environment. We are removing waste that accumulated at the site, rehabilitating wet habitats, creating an ecosystem

and restoring the stream. We are actually bringing life back to this neglected stream.” One can already see the signs of life returning to the stream. Fish swim in the water, the air rings with the croaking of frogs, and even the occasional water turtle can be spotted peering at visitors from rocks along the stream bank. People have also began Edmonton JNF honouree Freya Wasel, with Guy Koller (left) and Boris Belkin discovering this new (right) of KKL-JNF's planning unit. Photo: Yoav Devir. natural treasure. Twentyeight year-old Nisim attract tourists, which will bolster the local economy.” Levi from Jerusalem arrived at the site with a few of his Accompanied by friends and family members, Freya friends. “We came especially in order to enjoy the magnificent Wasel made her way along the convenient and easy path to scenery. There is a huge potential for development in this the charming wading pool. Koller explained: “It’s important park and it will attract large numbers of visitors,” he for us that everyone should enjoy this wonderful site, so we enthused. made it accessible for people with physical limitations, Twenty-one year-old Gaya Maman from nearby Kibbutz including the wading pool, which is accessible for people in Dafna didn’t hesitate to don her bathing suit and jump into wheelchairs. After all, nature belongs to everyone.” the cold stream water. “It feels amazing to be here, to enjoy From there, the group continued to the observation point the view, the stream and everything else,” she said. that overlooks the panoramic green vistas of the Hula Valley. Meanwhile, a friend of hers on break from army duty sat “At this site,” Koller added, “a pergola and comfortable sitting down by the stream bank and sketched the breathtaking corner will be built.” scenery. “I intend to come back here with my family, and to enjoy a A group of youth from the Kiryat Shmona community day of fun in the new park,” Freya said at the end of the walk. center arrived at the park for an ODT activity, along with “We’ll be able to walk on the paths, ride bikes, wade in the games and other activities. The green surroundings and stream, play ball games and observe the wild animals. I’m flowing stream provided the perfect backdrop. sure that it will be amazing.” “We finally have a nature spot that we can go to with the For more information about the gala and to purchase children,” said Dor Levi, a student at the nearby Tel Hai tickets, visit jnfedmonton.ca, call 780-481-7881 or email College and a community center youth coordinator. “Kiryat edm@jnf.ca Shmona has the potential to become a wonderful city with amazing natural treasures. We need places like this that serve as leisure sites and make local residents proud of their city. The park will also


Page 4

Edmonton Jewish News

May 07, 2019

B’nai Brith Audit: Antisemitism is on the rise in Canada (May 2019) - For the third consecutive year, records were set in 2018 for antisemitism in Canada. The 2018 Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, produced by B’nai Brith Canada’s advocacy arm, the League for Human Rights, recorded 2,041 incidents of antisemitism, a 16.5 percent increase over the previous year. Incidents of antisemitism included: A Medicine Hat man distributing currency marked with antisemitic propaganda, Swastika graffiti defacing an Edmonton park bench, Antisemitic pamphlets claiming “99% of the 1% is Jewish” distributed around Alberta and a group of teens shooting lit fireworks at Hasidic Jews in Boisbriand, Que. Also cited were two Saskatchewan elementary school students being harassed and beaten by their peers, a group of Orthodox students in Toronto being assaulted on the streets, a Winnipeg high school student being mocked for her “Jewish nose,” a Manitoba woman hearing “You Jews deserve to die” in an anonymous phone call and a 13-year-old Toronto student harassed by a peer who threatened to “shoot up a Jewish school” and told her to “go back into the ovens.” While vandalism and violence continued to target members of Canada’s Jewish community, harassment was the most dominant form of antisemitic expression in 2018, with a 28.4 per cent increase compared with 2017 – representing a 61.5 percent increase since 2015. Eighty percent of incidents took place via online platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, email and others. “We are experiencing a disturbing new normal when it comes to antisemitism in this country, with expressions of anti-Jewish hatred surfacing in regions that are typically less prone to such prejudices,” said Michael Mostyn, Chief Executive Officer of B’nai Brith Canada. “Of particular concern is the rise of antisemitic harassment on social media, including death threats, threats of violence and malicious anti-Jewish comments and rhetoric.” While the majority of incidents took place in Ontario and

Quebec, which experienced a concerning 49.6 per cent increase compared with 2017, there was a significant uptick in the provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan as well as parts of Atlantic Canada. Alberta saw a relative Sol Rolingher and Abe Silveman, B'nai Brith Canada's Alberta Manager of Public decrease with reported discussed the results of the 2018 Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents Affairs, antisemitic incidents down Canada, at a press conference in Edmonton. in 22.3 percent compared with 2017, still representing a 1,986 incidents in 2017, according to the ADL’s annual 61.5 percent increase since 2015. “The massacre of Jewish worshippers at a synagogue in survey of incidents released last month, the number of antiPittsburgh, just days before a Montreal man threatened Semitic assaults more than doubled, to 39 from 17. The report counts cases of assault, harassment and online to ‘kill Jewish girls,’ shows us that some individuals The vast majority of the incidents last year were vandalism. sadly make good on their threats. We must always be vigilant harassment or vandalism — 1,066 and 774, respectively. against all forms of hatred, which is why B’nai Brith is According to the report, the last three months of 2018 urging government officials to incorporate the steps outlined in our Eight-Point Plan to Tackle Antisemitism,” Mostyn said. were “unusually active” in terms of incidents. The shooting at The plan includes increasing resources for hate-crime Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue at the end of October units with police forces, a no-tolerance approach to public “likely drew more attention to anti-Semitic activities,” the funding of anti-Jewish events, provincial government action ADL said. The highest number of anti-Semitic incidents occurred in against antisemitism on campus and the adoption of a and the second highest in 2017. Last year’s number 1994 national-action plan for antisemitism. matches the total for 1991, the third most recorded in one Now in its 37th year, the Annual Audit of Antisemitic year. The organization has been measuring anti-Semitic Incidents, which tracks and monitors trends in antisemitic crimes annually since 1979. hatred, is the authoritative document on anti-Jewish bigotry The report referenced the shooting at a Chabad in Canada, cited regularly by law enforcement agencies, government bodies and human rights agencies around the synagogue in Poway, California, on Saturday April 27, in which an assailant killed one and wounded three. world. “We’ve worked hard to push back against anti-Semitism, To read the report visit BnaiBrith.ca. and succeeded in improving hate crime laws, and yet we Meanwhile, 2018 saw the third-highest number of anticontinue to experience an alarmingly high number of antiSemitic incidents in the United States since 1979, despite a Semitic acts,” ADL’s national director, Jonathan Greenblatt, decrease from the previous year, according to a new report by in a statement on April 30. “We unfortunately saw this said the Anti-Defamation League. trend continue into 2019 with the tragic shooting at the Though the 1,879 incidents in 2018 dropped from the Chabad synagogue in Poway.”

All the 2019 Jewish Tony nominees By Emily Burack NEW YORK (JTA) — The Tony Award nominations announced on April 30 were dominated by “Hadestown,” a musical about the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice that garnered 14. One among the “Hadestown” nods was for best director for Rachel Chavkin, who is Jewish. She also had been

nominated in 2017 for directing “Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812.” Sam Mendes is also nominated for best direction of a play for his work on “The Ferryman.” He’s known for his work on the James Bond films “Skyfall” and “Spectre,” and won an Academy Award for directing “American Beauty.” David Yazbek, whose show “The Band’s Visit” swept the Tonys last year, was tapped again in the best original score category for “Tootsie,” an adaptation of the 1982 film starring Dustin Hoffman. Also nominated in that category is Adam Guettel, the grandson of famed American Jewish composer Richard

Rodgers. Guettel is up for his score for Aaron Sorkin’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” adaptation. (Fun fact: Guettel told The New York Times in 2003 that his last name rhymes with “shtetl.”) Sorkin, also Jewish, who adapted the famed Harper Lee novel for Broadway and directed the show, was snubbed. Actress and comedy legend Elaine May received her first Tony nomination — for best leading actress in a play. She stars in Jewish playwright Kenneth Lonergan’s “The Waverly Gallery,” his semi-autobiographical play about a family dealing with the declining health of its matriarch. May launched her career performing with her father in a Yiddish theater company, and has gone on to a storied career as a comedian, director and screenwriter — notably forming a famous comedy duo with the late Mike Nichols. Lila Neugebauer, who directed “The Waverly Gallery,” was snubbed in the directing category. On why she was drawn to the play, she told The Interval, “I am a Jewish Upper West Sider and a child of a psychotherapist. The people in ‘The Waverly Gallery’ are a bunch of Jews who live on the Upper West Side or Greenwich Village, and the two parent figures are both psychiatrists.” Actor Brandon Uranowitz garnered his third Tony

Continued on page 7

It s a boy!

Micah Anderson Paull was born on May 2, 2019; named after Hannah's Dad Paul Anderson and Jared's great Uncle Mickey. Big sister Ella is delighted!

Edmonton Jewish News now carries Simchas and Celebrations announcements in every edition. To book your announcement, or appreciation or congratulations notices at special discounted rates, contact Dan at 780-421-7996, or email edmjnews@shaw.ca


May 07, 2019

Edmonton Jewish News

Page 5

May 21 – 30: What’s on at the 2019 Edmonton Jewish Film Festival? Here is a peek at the feature films that will be screened at the upcoming Edmonton Jewish Film Festival, from May 21 – 30, 2019 at the Landmark Cinema 9, City Centre. For ticket information and to look at the trailers visit jewishedmonton. Shoelaces (2018) Director: Jacob Goldwasser (Israel) Hebrew with English subtitles Drama, (90 min) Tues. May 21 at 7 pm (90 min) An engaging, humorous and life-affirming story of the relationship between Reuben (60), an aging auto mechanic, and Gadi (35), the exuberant special-needs son he abandoned long ago. When his ex-wife dies, Reuben is suddenly thrust into the position of caring for Gadi. Their relationship is tested by trials and tribulations as they adjust to their new life together. Includes short film: 100 Faces. From Cairo to the Cloud (2018) Canada, US, Egypt, France Israel Director: Michelle Paymar English, Documentary Wed, May 22 at 7 pm (94 min) The gripping story of the discovery of the Cairo Geniza, a vast, treasure trove of manuscripts hidden for centuries in the sacred storeroom of an ancient synagogue in Old Cairo. It is the largest cache of Jewish history ever found. Though discovered over a century ago, the collection is now being digitized and made available in The Cloud, to one and all. Includes special guest: Rabbi Mark Gluckman. Tel Aviv on Fire (2018) Israel, Luxembourg, Belgium, France Director: Sameh Zoabi (Comedy) Hebrew, Arabic with English subtitles Thurs. May 23, 7 pm (97 min) Salam, a production assistant on the set of a popular Arab-language soap opera, strikes up an awkward friendship with Assi, an Israeli officer at the Ramallah checkpoint. Together, Salam and Assi come up with plots for the show that betray their shared desire to normalize Arab-Jewish relations and earn them points with the women they love. The Museum (2017) Director: Ran Tal (Israel) Hebrew with English subtitles Documentary Sun May 26, 3 pm (74 min) “The Museum” explores the Israeli soul through visiting the galleries, storerooms and visitors to the Israel Museum, Israel's most important cultural institution. With a sharp, ironic eye, the film goes room to room, meeting many of the colourful characters that take part in a chain of activities which total the museum itself. Includes short films by Bezalel students, celebrating Israeli culture. The Last Suit (2017) Argentina, Spain

The Last Suit will be screened at the Edmonton Jewish Film Festival on May 26 at 7 pm.

Director: Pablo Solarz (Drama) Spanish with English subtitles Sun. May 26, 7 pm (91 min) In this poignant, humorous, late-in-life road trip movie, Abraham Bursztein, an 88-year Holocaust survivor leaves his home in Buenos Aires for Poland, to find the friend who saved him from certain death, long ago. Fleeing his family, who want to put him in a nursing home, and after more than seven decades with no news from his friend, Abraham sets off on a wild adventure. Includes short film: Journey Birds. Leona (2018) Director: Isaac Cherem Spanish with English subtitles Drama, Mexico Mon. May 27, at 7 pm (95 min) "Leona" is an intimate and moving story of a young Jewish artist from Mexico City who finds herself torn between her family and her forbidden love of a non-Jewish man. The story is both painful and beautiful – there are no easy choices to be made as she struggles with her heart to take the best path. The Waldheim Waltz (2018) Director: Ruth Beckermann German, French, English with English subtitles Documentary, Austria Tues. May 28, 7 pm (91 min) In this fascinating film about how a dishonest man can rise to power, Ruth Beckermann documents the process of uncovering former UN Secretary General Kurt Waldheim’s wartime past. The film shows the swift succession of allegations by the World Jewish Congress during his Austrian presidential campaign, the denial by the Austrian political class, and the outbreak of anti-Semitism and patriotism, which finally lead to Waldheim’s election.

Created from archive material, the film shows that history is destined to repeat itself, time and time again. Includes short film: The Driver is Red. Between Worlds (2016) Director: Miya Hatav (Israel) Hebrew, Arabic with English subtitles Drama Wed. May 29, 7 pm (84 min) Visiting their gravely injured son in a Jerusalem hospital in the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Orthodox couple Bina and Meir form a surprising bond with a young woman, who is at the hospital to attend to her dying father. As the surprising truth about her identity unfolds, they struggle to accept the circumstances that brought them together. Questions about the nature of faith, acceptance, and understanding loom large. Includes short film: Last Class in Bagdhad. Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: The Conductor Zubin Mehta (2016) Germany, Documentary Director: Bettina Ehrhardt German, English, Italian with English subtitles Thurs. May 30, 7 pm (89 min) Conductor Zubin Mehta was born in India and has had a dazzling international career. Since he first joined the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra in 1969, he has developed strong ties with the state and become the face of its cultural excellence. Produced on the eve of Mehta’s 80th birthday, this film is a timely celebration of the legendary maestro’s life and work. Includes dessert reception sponsored by the Edmonton Community Foundation, with special guest: Alexander Prior, Chief Conductor, Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.


Page 6

Edmonton Jewish News

May 07, 2019

Garden Homes – an affordable option for the sandwich generation More Canadians now than ever before find themselves in the "sandwich generation". In fact, about a fifth of Canadians are challenged with the responsibility of managing their aging parents' care and, at the same time, either still raising their teenage children or having grown-up children return home. As the population ages, it’s only going to become a more normal part of life for Canadians. The bad news is that, in all likelihood, their parents will find it difficult to find an affordable or suitable retirement home, as waiting lists for seniors' homes continue to grow exponentially. Financially constrained provincial governments can't keep up with construction of seniors' homes and privately developed facilities are far too expensive for most. Thousands of Alberta seniors are now on waiting lists for suitable accommodation, while they no longer can manage to live in their own houses with stairs and other mobility barriers. In Edmonton, many such seniors needlessly occupy hospital beds. There is good news! Many Alberta municipalities, with Edmonton and St. Albert in the lead, have responded to the looming shortage of senior and affordable housing by recently amending land use by-laws and allowing for development of Garden Homes or Garage Suites in residential backyards. These attractive, self-contained homes, with separate utility metering can now be built on many city lots, allowing seniors to either move into such home in their own yard and rent out their large home, or move into their children's back yard. Also, Garden Homes became a practical housing solution for live-in caregivers. For many families it's a win/win proposition. "It is a brilliant and affordable solution that offers many benefits of multigenerational living. As a parent of a young child, I see endless benefits of having grandma and grandpa living nearby," says Thomas Lukaszuk, Alberta's former Deputy Premier who saw the dire need for such housing while serving in government and who now is the Managing Director of www.UrbanMews.ca - local design and building

EJFF

Cont. from page 1

Conductor of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra will attend EJFF for the screening of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: The Conductor Zubin Metha. Mr. Prior will speak

company specializing in designing and crafting such homes. "At Urban Mews, we combined decades of experience and expertise in community development, architecture and construction to design attractive, economic, and ecological garden homes and above-garage suites to meet the growing demand for such housing. Urban Mews homes can be disability friendly, Urban Mews has beautiful designs for above-garage suites. they exceed all building and energy code requirements and are covered by government of their neighbours and existing trees and landscaping,” he approved New Home Warranty," says George Iligan, noted. “There is no need to have months of noisy construction in your backyard." Designer at Urban Mews. Here’s another statistic to leave you with. More than 60% The Urban Mews team designs each home to their client's individual liking and they take care of all municipal of those working and caring for an older person, while still having children at home, felt that caring for a senior was permitting and administrative tasks. While these homes are still a relative novelty in Alberta, simply giving back what they had received, and 70% stated property owners are starting to realize that their backyards that their family relationship was strengthened. You are can serve a more practical purpose than just growing grass. given piece of mind that your loved ones are close and being Lukaszuk says that while multigenerational housing is a well taken care of. Urban Mews homes allow families to major market for Urban Mews, above-garage suites and remain together in the same yard - mere steps away, but with garden homes in Edmonton can fetch as much as $1,600 in the privacy you desire. “Whether it's for your parents, for your teenagers, for rent monthly rental revenue. That makes these homes great mortgage payment helpers for younger families or pension or simply a guest house or a quiet place to pursue your hobby, this Spring, now that the snow is finally gone, you may view supplements for seniors. Lukaszuk points out that building an above-garage suite your backyard a little differently. You now have options that or a garden home can be very quick and easy, if a dedicated, you didn't have before,” concluded Lukaszuk. “If you're curious to see some of Urban Mews completed experienced and reputable builder is selected. Garden Homes, our team will gladly show you some of the "At Urban Mews we realize that we are building in our already constructed homes in the Edmonton region. Contact clients' backyards, which means that we must be respectful us at 780-428-7778 or email info@urbanmews.ca.” following the film and stay for a dessert reception. Founded in 1996, the EJFF is the result of the hard work and talent of the volunteer Edmonton Jewish Film Festival Committee, made up of film enthusiasts and experts from throughout the community. The Committee spends each winter screening dozens of films before selecting the final

film line-up for the annual Festival, which takes place each May at Landmark City Centre Cinemas. The Jewish Federation of Edmonton is very grateful to the many generous individuals, organizations and companies who make the EJFF possible through their sponsorships and donations. Proceeds from the EJFF are the primary source of funding for Partnership 2Gether (P2G), The Jewish Federation of Edmonton’s bridge-building partnership with the communities of the Galilee panhandle in Northern Israel. The Edmonton Jewish Film Festival -- Come explore, discover, and schmooze with us! For ticket information visit jewishedmonton.org.


May 07, 2019

Edmonton Jewish News

Page 7

Homeowners – Getting your concrete right By Wade Fenner, Concrete Replacements Experts preventing cracks from much and separating increasing the overall (Edmonton) - Getting Your Concrete Right – Even though strength of the slab. concrete is considered to be hard and strong as “concrete” it’s Once the concrete is still susceptible to issues and needs some basic maintenance placed there are a few simple to keep it doing its job well for many many years. things you as a homeowner The first thing that needs to be considered is getting the can do to protect your new right type of concrete for the application you’re using it for. investment. Firstly, backfill Take driveways for example. When placing a new driveway, against any exposed edges of or any application for that matter, we want a mixture that the concrete so the road will be strong enough to park vehicles on and also withstand crush can’t spill out from the frost-heave cycles of our Prairie winters. In order to under it creating voids. Your driveway needs to protect the inside of the slab from corrosion we need to Landscape your yard in such protect the outside. This starts with ordering a concrete a way to prevent running water from getting underneath the designed for driveways, one that is designed to withstand the slab. Direct downspouts away from the concrete edge to the harsh conditions of our climate, road salts and other downhill side so water runs away to the soil and not minerals that may affect the surface structure. A long underneath. When installing a new driveway or sidewalk ask favorite for many contractors is a common mix called Dura- the contractor to install a pipe under the slab to collect rain Mix which has a certain registered formula that all suppliers water from the downspouts if they terminate on the uphill must adhere to. Each manufacture or concrete supplier such side of the concrete. as COD Concrete (Concrete On Demand), which is a the Another commonly overlooked maintenance item that small contractor division of LaFarge, have their own should be done yearly is concrete sealing. This is a simple proprietary mixtures such as “Ultradrive 32” which may be and inexpensive item you can do yourself. If you have as good or better. stamped or decorative concrete this procedure is a bit more Concrete is very strong but brittle so it needs to rest on a detailed but its pretty easy if you just have regular broom firm well compacted base material such as road crush which finished concrete. Buy a pump pressure can (for spraying the is better than plain sand because the fractured and broken sealer) from a concrete supply store such as Milltrade gravel or rock mixed in the sand acts as little barricades Building Products and a quality water based sealer. Clean preventing the sand from moving around as much if it were your driveway and sidewalks by pressure washing them, on its own. Reinforcement steel (Rebar) is used in most being careful to remove any oily stains etc. Then after the concrete application to help strengthen the slab and mitigate driveway is completely dry spray on the sealer liberally the brittle nature of concrete. Concrete will crack, impossible following the manufactures recommended protocols. This to prevent entirely, but rebar helps hold the slab together should be every year, its very easy to do and goes a long way to preserving the durability of your concrete. Cont. from p 4 Another topic that comes nomination for best featured actor for his role in the play “Burn This.” (The other two were up a lot involves sinking or for roles in musicals: “An American in Paris” and “Falsettos.”) Actor Gideon Glick is nominated in the same category for his work in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Glick got his start on Broadway as a senior in high school when he starred in “Spring Awakening.” “This was a probably the most research I’ve ever done because it’s circumstances I’m not accustomed to,” Glick told Backstage magazine about his role. “I’m a gay Jew from the East Coast, and all of a sudden I’m playing this Southern dandy from Bayou Blue, Louisiana.” David Korins, the set designer for “Beetlejuice,” received his third Tony nomination. His first? For his work on a little show called “Hamilton.” Sound designer Nevin Steinberg, who worked with Korins on “Hamilton,” received a nomination with Jessica Paz for their sound design of “Hadestown.” Jules Fisher has been nominated more than 20 times for his work as a lighting designer, and 2019 brings yet another nomination: for his work in “Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus,” with co-designer Peggy Eisenhauer. The awards take place June 9.

Tony nominees

be strong enough to withstand our Alberta winters. uneven concrete and the question of repair or replace. The idea of “mud-jacking” has come a long way from the original liquid slurry used many years ago to the more commonly used polyurethane. These procedures can help extend the life of your driveway or sidewalk by many years in some cases depending on the cause of the sinking issue but its generally not seen as a permanent fix. Each scenario needs to be evaluated by the homeowner with the help of knowledgeable contractors to see if sunken concrete can be lifted or if it needs to be replaced. The underlying issue of poor base preparation and bad compaction doesn’t get resolved by this process so the likelihood of the concrete settling again is quite high. The big question is when. For extreme cases of sunken concrete or badly cracked concrete, especially if the cracks are separating or causing trip hazards, the only solution is generally a full replacement by a Concrete Driveway Replacement Expert. Look for a reputable company that focuses on your specific needs. There are a lot of “generalists” whereas you want a “Specialist” who focuses on your exact needs such as garage floor or driveway replacement. Wade Fenner can be reached for a free estimate in Edmonton at ConcreteReplacementExperts.com or by calling 780 934-6990.

It’s Not Just Furniture, It’s Personal.

Complimentary Design Service t 100 Mayfield Rd, Edmonton t www.Cottswood.com


Page 8

Edmonton Jewish News

We all need an organized friend by Karen Murdock I'd love to take a moment and tell you a little about myself and my company. My name is Karen and along with my amazing team of caring professionals we are "Your Organized Friend." We are committed as Professional Organizers to helping people through all life transitions and the clutter that often accompanies those transitions. Our clients include busy professionals, young moms, families, baby boomers, widows and retired seniors all with a similar request, to have their lives simplified and have organized homes that have been decluttered and downsized. Fun Fact, we truly do things differently! Our main objective is to work with our clients to meet all their needs by empowering them and lifting them up when they need a little extra TLC. We have been called the social workers of the organizing world and life coaches for your stuff. Love those fun little titles! Your Organized Friend offers a wide variety of services to help you deal with the things you own in the way you need to deal with them no matter the circumstances. We help people with moving, packing and unpacking, even coordinating all the services and helping with the move notifications on their behalf. We are like daughters on call for our senior clients as we help them manage their move. If you are looking for Senior Helpers for your parents, I'll be glad to assist you and your family and connect them to the right professional. We are the perfect solution for the family that is scattered across the globe. We also offer specialized photo organizing services, which include organizing, scanning, enhancing your photos and helping you share your stories. We help take your photo chaos into a functional photo collection. Your Organized Friend is also a Premiere Certified Executor Assistance Service in Edmonton. Many Executors

get overwhelmed and need help. We always hear that they are way out of their comfort zone, they are so busy with work and life not to mention their own grief that they are frozen and just can't do it. That's where we come in. We do as little or as much as you need. We are there to empower you and to share the load. We specialize in helping you administer the estate, distribute estate assets as well as preparing a legacy while photo providing bereavement care. Executor assistance services will help you save money and time making the administration of the estate easier for you to manage. Our goal is your peace of mind during a very difficult time. As a member of the Senior Solutions Team we can bring in the right professional to assist as required meeting every need your family requires. We love to get to know our clients and hear their stories so we can customize solutions. That's why I like to start with a "Meet and Greet" and move on to

May 07, 2019

2019 EJHL Award Winners

The EJHL season came to an end with some stellar hockey, great competition and even better camaraderie. EJHL Red Team won My Son Stanley's Cup. Eliot Sprague from Red Team was awarded Top Defenceman of the League. Liam Muscat also from Red Team was awarded Scoring Leader, a title he shared with Joseph Soifer from the HeAtBaGs. James Schwab from Green Team was awarded Top Goalie of the League. designing solutions and of course finish with implementation of the

Spring is here!

Visit us online at www.edmontonjewishnews.com

recommended solutions and systems using the right member or members of our team of professionals. For more information visit yourorganizedfriend.ca


May 07, 2019

Edmonton Jewish News

Book Review

Communal Solidarity: Immigration, Solidarity and Social Welfare in Winnipeg’s Jewish Community, 1882-1930 By Arthur Ross, (March 2019) University of Manitoba Press ISBN: 978-0-88755-837-5 Review by Regan Treewater-Lipes Dr. Arthur Ross, a professor in the Politics and Public Administration Department at Ryerson University in Toronto, has recently published a comprehensive scholarly volume that promises to be of interest to Jewish historical enthusiasts, anyone hailing from Winnipeg’s North End, and those involved in organized community development. In Communal Solidarity: Immigration, Solidarity and Social Welfare in Winnipeg’s Jewish Community, 1882-1930, Ross explores what it is to be culturally displaced necessitating the rebuilding of community, and the efforts undertaken post-immigration to unite. Recently released by the University of Manitoba Press, the book provides insight into the formation of one of Canada’s most dynamic and historically influential Jewish communities. In Communal Solidarity, Ross goes beyond conventional scholarship and infuses a narrative flare for the unveiling of history, captivating a diverse audience. The way he tells the story of Winnipeg’s Jewish community is gripping in its vividness as well as both stirring and moving for what it demonstrates about the power of the human spirit.An academic through-and-through, Ross starts at the beginning, providing a detailed panorama of the societal, political and cultural catalysts in the Tsarist Russian Empire that precipitated a mass exodus of Jews fleeing government sanctioned anti-Semitism and oppression. Descriptions of violent pogroms, reminiscent of the prose of Isaak Babel, illustrate how the Pale of Settlement, “a vast region of fifteen gubernii or ‘provinces’ comprising the western borderlands of the Russian Empire” (Ross 7), not only became a geographical territory of mandated persecutorial isolation, but also a place of restrictive poverty. Ross’ examination of the sociocultural structure of dayto-day Jewish life in this pre-WWI period presents as both comprehensive and accessible. He explores the nuances of both religious and secular philosophies of community and Jewish identity, and how these attitudes influenced emigration from Eastern Europe in the decades leading up to the Bolshevik Revolution. The author not only explores the reasons behind emigration, but also the process of immigration in a way that brings the history to life in a personal and relatable way: “On 13 July 1912, fifteen days after departing from Antwerp, Belgium, the Canadian Pacific steamship Lake Michigan docked in Quebec City […] Miriam Epstein, aged twentythree, accompanied by her twenty-one-year-old brother-inlaw Leib, and her two children Israel (one and a half), and Feige (three months), informed immigration officers that

Page 9

they were joining her husband, Moishe, who had immigrated to Canada in June 1911 and settled in Winnipeg” (Ross 39). Along with the necessary discussion of statistical data, political and economic events of note, and societal developments, Ross’ analysis is punctuated by more humanistic evidence serving to enhance his scholarly treatment with detail highlighting the experiences of those who lived the history. As fellow prairie dwellers many Edmontonian Jewish families themselves share ties with Winnipeg’s vibrant Jewish community, making Communal Solidarity a particularly meaningful and enlightening read. However, as Ross manages to emphasize, this is not simply a scholarly documentation of Winnipeg’s Jewish history, but a glimpse at a critical period in Canada’s cultural development Dr. Arthur Ross at the Winnipeg book launch of overall. Migratory movements westward necessitated the Communal Solidarity. expansion of Canadian Railway operations. Ross draws the reader’s attention to notable national developments through the use of archival photographs to bring yet another layer of photo depicting a team of nurses attending to residents of Winnipeg’s Jewish Old Folks’ Home in the 1920s illustrates accessibility to his work. how expansive and universal Winnipeg’s network of Jewish Of primary concern to the author is the formation of community agencies became (Ross 167). community-based support systems – and for this, he focuses As a native of Winnipeg’s North End, the author treats on the North End of Winnipeg as the epicenter of Jewish life his investigation of the city’s Jewish community’s formative for the area. “Despite the obstacles that they faced, most years with a delicacy and respect that is both touching and Jewish immigrants and their children living in the North celebratory. Ross’ examination is objective in its scholarly End succeeded in finding a means of earning an income” but should certainly be considered beyond perspective (Ross 71). in university reading lists. His analysis is not only inclusion In a similar theoretical approach taken by prominent valuable for its contribution to national history, but also as a postcolonial theorists like Homi Bhabha, Ross demonstrates to the solidarity and resilience of the Jewish tribute how at the initial stages of cultural displacement and immigrant who paved the way for the dynamic relocation, language plays a critical role in the formation of accomplishments and achievements heralded within social connection and support networks. “The vast majority Canadian Jewish society. contemporary of Jewish immigrants who settled in Winnipeg proved to be “Growing up in Winnipeg’s North End, I frequently went resourceful and resilient. Having experienced poverty in the Pale of Settlement, they were determined to take advantage to the Mount Carmel Clinic on Selkirk Avenue to visit my of any employment or business opportunity in Winnipeg’s mother, the executive director. During my visits, I often bourgeoning economy. Despite language barriers, looked at a framed collection of photographs of the thirty-two competition from the British Canadian workers preferred by men and women who had served on the clinic’s board of Winnipeg’s major employers, skepticism and distrust of their director in 1929. I was, of course, intrigued by their oldqualifications, periodic recession, and pervasive fashioned clothing, but I was also struck by their sense of discrimination against ‘foreigners,’ few Jewish workers were purpose. They were, my mother informed me, the men and women who had led a fundraising drive to build a ‘hospital’ unemployed” (Ross 92). to provide free medical care to members of the Jewish The author attributes much of this success to the community” (Ross 245). determination of the Jewish refugees who chose Winnipeg as Examining community and the influence of support their new home, but also on the community’s ability to unite networks is an analysis that can be applied diversely. As one in supporting recent arrivals. Eventually, as Ross elaborates, considers the damage that can result from social ‘othering’, it such endeavours allowed for the infusion of new cultural becomes evident that documenting the efforts of Winnipeg’s developments: “The Jewish immigrants who settled in Jewish inhabitant during this pivotal period showcases Winnipeg after 1903 transformed the cultural, political, and many admirable qualities of humanity in a way that should organizational landscape of the Jewish community. Drawing on their pre-immigration experiences, they took advantage of serve as inspiration. Ross concludes stating that: “though the opportunities provided by an evolving diasporic the organizational landscape of Winnipeg’s Jewish community to continue the activities that had invigorated community changed, the legacy of the generation of Jewish immigrants who embraced communal solidarity endured. Jewish life in the Pale of Settlement” (Ross 110). The numerous archival images woven into the textual After the 1930s, communal solidarity evolved, but it discussion serve to provide a visually tangible dimension to continued to shape the development of social welfare in the remarkable achievements of Winnipeg’s Jewish Winnipeg’s Jewish community” (Ross 244). community and its individuals. A photograph of a group of people engaged in a rehearsal for a performance to benefit the Winnipeg Jewish Orphanage in 1918 Would you like to join our EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS? highlights the diversity of approaches taken toward We need you…Curently we have 3 openings! local charitable endeavors (Ross 157). Yet another Preserve our Jewish values, traditions and the Hebrew language

for our young generation. We inspire student success through high quality learning opportunities. JOIN US AND START TO MAKE A CHANGE Executive board members are meeting only 8 times a years! Please join us and take an active part in the community. In order to apply you must be one of the following: - A parent or guardian of a child who attends the school. OR - Anyone over 18 years old, that donated at least $18.00 to Talmud Torah Society prior to May 15, 2019. For more information please call or text

780-885-1919 Or email your inquires to: information@talmudtorahsociety.com www.talmudtorahsociety.com


Page 10

Edmonton Jewish News

A defiantly, optimistic funeral service for Lori Kaye By Chabad.org staff Lori Kaye’s funeral service, held Monday April 29, at Chabad-Lubavitch of Poway under a rainy sky, was many things: scholarly and emotional; sad and joyous; poignant and humorous. One thing it was not was scared or defeatist, striking a tone of defiant optimism throughout. Hundreds of Jewish community members, lawenforcement representatives, local officials and well-wishers filled Chabad of Poway’s airy sanctuary to bid farewell to Kaye. The holy space - a place of joy, prayer and fellowship was one that Kaye loved and had been instrumental in bringing into reality. Last month, on the last day of Passover, that peace was shattered when a young man entered and began shooting at innocent and unarmed men, women and children gathered inside, striking and killing Kaye. And now it was the site of her funeral. People came from all over for the funeral, which was televised and streamed live on Chabad.org. As the overflow crowd in the lobby and outside waited patiently for the ceremony to begin, the congregation’s founding leader, Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein - hands bound in bandages and suspended in slings due to the injuries he suffered in the attack, including the loss of his right index finger - could be observed hugging, comforting and crying with his congregants. Sam Hoffman, president of Chabad of Poway, acknowledged the enormous crowd, which included representatives of many different faiths and ethnic groups, leaders of major Jewish organizations, elected officials, and Chabad rabbis from California and beyond. “While we sit here, it is not lost on me or any of us that in the very place a terrorist came to tear us down, we have now come together to build us back up,” he opened. “We are here to bring a light to our hero Lori Kaye and show that we stand tall against the darkness of evil.” Wearing a black kippah, Elan Carr, the U.S. Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Anti-Semitism, shared condolences on behalf of U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration. Eitan Weiss, Consul General of Israel in Los Angeles, spoke of Lori Kaye’s devotion to Jewish values and expressed Israel’s dedication to standing “shoulder to shoulder” with Jewish people all over the world. “This is our greatest victory against those who will try to harm us,” he said. “The more they threaten us, the more we will push back by celebrating and upholding the values we hold dear. And eventually, we will be triumphant; we will always be here.” Poway Mayor Steve Vaus, who had been with the congregation throughout the harrowing ordeal, led the assembled in singing “God Bless America.” In his brief remark, he told the congregation that “this community loves you, I love you, and Gd loves you.” Rabbi Yonah Fradkin, regional director of Chabad of San Diego, spoke of the beauty and kindness with which Kaye lived her life. Reflecting on the outpouring of love and solidarity that had come from the entire world, he dubbed Chabad of Poway the “largest congregation in the United States.” The crowd then heard from Dr. Howard Kaye, husband of the deceased. He spoke of the strength and insight he derived from his Torah learning and drew adoring and humorous parallels between her and King Solomon’s Woman

May 07, 2019

TT Class of ’75 Reunion

of Valour. Addressing the murderer and others who perpetrate acts of hate, Kaye urged them to turn their lives around and “come back into the world, the world of Lori, which is the world of peace and love on earth. Next to speak was Hannah Kaye, 22, daughter of the deceased, who referred to her mother as her greatest advocate and best friend. Dressed in pink - one of Lori’s favorite colors - she expressed her gratitude to those who surrounded her mother with kindness and love in her final moments. She shared personal memories of the tender moments she shared with her parents around the Shabbat table, as her mother shared her feelings of love. And she spoke of how her mother died sanctifying Gd’s name, as a Jew and for the only reason that she was a Jew, and at the moment she ascended to heaven she joined the greatest Jewish women of past By Jerry Sorokin generations - heroines who led the way before her. More than 50 years ago, a group of Edmonton kids started kindergarten at Talmud Lori Kaye’s older sister, Torah. Some of them had known each other since they were babies; others were soon Randy Grossman, spoke of how to become fast friends. Most important, they developed a connection that has lasted her younger sister was always long beyond the time that they were actually together. on the run to help someone - to Over the first weekend of May, this group - my TT class, which finished Grade 6 in deliver them some challah or a 1975 - held its first reunion. Classmates flew in from as far away as Los Angeles, bouquet of flowers or just a cup Vancouver, and Toronto; others drove in from Calgary and northern BC. We visited the of coffee. old school and the new one. We laughed, cried, and reminisced about our years “You epitomized all that is together and our years apart. We had brunch with our parents, which was cool. It was light and good in this world,” a truly memorable weekend. said Grossman. The Talmud Torah experience does that to people. TT students and their families Rabbi Shlomo Cunin, head develop relationships so deep that we can pick up conversations mid-sentence after 40 Chabad emissary in the state years apart. All of us retain an identity - not just as Edmonton Jews, but as Talmud of California, urged those Torah alumni with a unique shared experience. gathered and those watching On behalf of the Talmud Torah Society, I invite all alumni to organize class everywhere around the world reunions. Speaking on behalf of my classmates, we’d be more than happy to give you to act as Kaye’s arms and legs, some advice. It’s well worth the effort! and do mitzvot and good deeds in her name. Though her soul remains “There is a big garden, Gd took the rose and brought her whole, as it was before, “she won’t have an arm to light up to heaven,” said Goldstein. Shabbat candles,” said Cunin. “So I say to all of you ladies And yet the work that Kaye had been so instrumental in and girls, light those Shabbat candles ... and when you do, helping to begin would go on unabated - not at some point in close your eyes and say ‘Lori, I am doing this for you ...’” the distant future, but now. The last word was left to the congregation’s devoted rabbi, “Our job,” said Goldstein, echoing the words of nearly Goldstein, who pulled out a flower delivered just a few days every speaker before him, is “to make this world truly a ago to the Goldstein home by Kaye, with warm holiday dwelling place for Gd.” wishes written on a card attached.


May 07, 2019

Edmonton Jewish News

Page 11

This month's update from Talmud Torah School

April was a very busy month at Talmud Torah School. Students in all the classes learned about the story of Passover and the meaning of the Festival of Freedom. They learned about the Hagaddah, the prayers, the food and customs. They celebrated the holiday with a school wide assembly and a wonderful model seder, cochaired and prepared by members of Talmud Torah's Parents' Auxiliary. The TT Society also launched a limited Pesach Pop Up store where they are selling special edition hoodies. Contact Jerry at 780-481-3377 to get your hoodie; they are only on sale until May 15.


May 07, 2019

Edmonton Jewish News

Page 12

Follow us at edmontonjewishnews.com and edmjewishnews

CHAYA SARAH BLACHMAN is a former preschool teacher and a mother of six boys B"H. She has been running Bagel Babies Mommy and Me in Edmonton for close to ten years bringing the joy of Judaism to mommies and babies. CAROLINE BOTTING graduated with a Bachelor of Physical Education, and an Advanced Certificate in Athletic Therapy, from the University of Alberta and got certified to teach group fitness classes and one-on-one fitness sessions. Her training now includes a more post-natal focus and it is her goal to help moms feel strong and empowered. A PROJECT OF CHABAD OF EDMONTON This program is a sponsored project of the InMotion Network, with funding provided by Alberta Sport Connection


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.