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bulletin 7 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY 1 9 3 7 volume 76, no. 8 february 20, 2012

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Editor: Michael Regenstreif $2.00

Pamela Wallin to speak about success at networking event

By Michael Regenstreif Senator Pamela Wallin began her working life as a social worker at the maximum security Prince Albert Penitentiary in her home province of Saskatchewan before becoming a journalist and one of Canada’s best-known broadcasters. Later she was a diplomat, serving as Canada’s consul general in New York City before her appointment to the Senate just over three years ago.

By any measure, she has enjoyed a successful career.

Wallin will be the keynote speaker, February 28, at Success, a networking event hosted by jnet.

Speaking with the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin from her Senate office, Wallin said the common factor to each of the stops on her career path has been public service.

“Journalism is a public service,” she said, “a free and open media being an important aspect of a democratic society.”

A desire to continue serving the public, she said, has motivated her service as a diplomat and senator in her post-media career.

Although Wallin had no party affiliation during the years she worked in media, she was appointed to her diplomatic post by Liberal prime minister Jean Chrétien and now serves in the Senate as a Conservative.

“Prime minister Chrétien asked me to serve as consul general in New York following the devastating events of 9/11,” she said.

Representing Canada at that crucial time in that important place was a request Wallin said she could not refuse. Wallin led Canada’s diplomatic team in New York from 2002 to 2006.

Wallin returned to Canada following her four-year term in New York. In 2007, Prime Minister Steven Harper asked her to sit on the Independent Panel on Canada’s Future Role in Afghanistan. Harper appointed her to

the Senate on December 22, 2008.

As a senator, Wallin has maintained a strong focus on foreign affairs and defence issues as chair of the National Security and Defence Committee, and by serving on the Special Committee on Anti-terrorism and the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Committee.

Commenting on events that have unfolded over the past year in the Middle East, Wallin said the process of change brought on by the Arab Spring has been both “frightening and exciting.”

Although the “desire for change” emanating from long-repressed Arab societies is exciting to see, she described the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt as troubling.

“Democracy takes struggle,” she added, “and the populations need time.”

Wallin also applauded the government’s strong support for the State of Israel.

(Continued on page 2)

Senator Pamela Wallin will be the keynote speaker at the Success networking event, February 28, at Beth Shalom.

‘Israel has no greater friend than Canada’

By John Baird Minister of Foreign Affairs (Editor’s note: This article is an abridged version of Foreign Minister John Baird’s address, January 30, at the Herzliya Conference at IDC Herzliya in Israel.)

I have been asked to address the topic of leadership. In that vein, I wish to deliver reflections on three areas as they relate to leadership in the CanadaIsrael context: first, historical factors and recent developments across the Middle East and North Africa; second, the basis of Canada’s care and concern; and third, a way forward.

When it comes to world affairs, we find the greatest effectiveness in working with others – partner nations with whom we see eye to eye.

Canada is what I like to call a “smart power.”

And this is what has allowed us, throughout our history, to “punch above our weight,” if you will.

It is how we continue to “punch above our weight” today – in areas where we choose to do so.

Over the course of our history, Canada has never shied away from standing up for what is right and just.

Indeed, like Israel, Canada has fought mightily against hatred and intolerance.

We have paid a high toll for the principles that guide us. In two world wars, and in conflicts before and since, we have paid in blood spilled and lives lost, all in defence of freedom,

Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty and Minister of Foreign Affairs John Baird meet with President of Israel Shimon Peres at his official residence in Jerusalem, January 30.

(Continued on page 2 )

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Page 2 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Canada supports negotiated two-state solution (Continued from page 1)

democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Most recently, we answered the call as part of the NATO-led, UNsanctioned mission to protect the people of Libya.

We “punched above our weight” to prevent the slaughter of innocents in Benghazi. We supported all Libyans in their quest to end four decades of oppressive, one-man rule. We supported their desire to share in that country’s immense natural wealth. And we supported their calls for democratic self-determination, in which all Libyans have a role and voice.

We knew this would not be easy. It is proving not to be.

But it was what was right.

The massive wave of change that has swept across Libya and the Arab world in the past 12 months has been truly remarkable.

It is not done yet – witness the courageous struggle of the Syrian people at such great cost to themselves against the appalling violence of the Assad regime.

Nor is the precise outcome of any of these transitions by any means certain.

What is emerging, though, presents both challenge and opportunity.

It is, as our prime minister calls it, “the paradox of freedom: That awesome power, that grave responsibility, to choose between good and evil.”

Israel, of course, is no stranger to this.

And perhaps no other nation has more at stake in the choices the newly free will make in the coming months and years.

I can assure you that Canada

Foreign Minister John Baird speaks, January 30, at the Herzliya Conference.

will stand with you in the face of challenge.

For the same reasons, Canada was one of the first countries in the world to list Hamas as a terrorist entity.

For the same reasons, Canada was the first country to sign on to the Ottawa Protocol on Combating Antisemitism.

For the same reasons, Canada this year voted against a package of one-sided, imbalanced resolutions at the UN. The Canadian tradition is to stand for what is principled and just, regardless of whether it is popular, convenient or expedient.

Israel has no greater friend than Canada.

Why is it that we care so much?

Why is it that our prime minis-

Wallin on ‘success’ (Continued from page 1)

“Our government is clear and direct in the Middle East. Our support for our really important ally is well articulated,” she said.

Wallin is the author of several books and, apropos to the theme of the jnet event, one of them is Speaking of Success: Collected Wisdom, Insights and Reflections.

“The book is not a ‘10 easy steps’ guide to success,” she explained. Based on countless interviews she’s conducted over the years with successful people from many walks of life, it’s “not about how to achieve fame and fortune.”

Rather the book is about leading a successful life, relating to family, friends and community.

Wallin said that is the kind of message she plans to bring to the event. She said she hopes attendees will think about success in terms of those issues and of how they relate to themes of politics and media.

Success: An Evening with Senator Pamela Wallin will be held Tuesday, February 28, 7:30 pm, at Congregation Beth Shalom, 151 Chapel Street. CBC Radio news anchor Laurence Wall will act as master of ceremonies and a kosher networking reception will follow the program.

Tickets are available by calling 613-798-4696, ext. 270 or at jnetottawa.com. Tickets are $50 (general public) or $30 (young professionals 21-35 years).

ter and our government believe so deeply and so passionately in Israel’s right not only to exist, but also to exist as a Jewish state and to live in peace and security?

Why is it that our prime minister has said that “those who threaten the existence of the Jewish people are a threat to all of us”?

The state of Israel embodies principles that Canada values and respects.

It is a beacon of light in a region that craves freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law; a region where people are rising up against dictators, autocrats and oppressors who defied those basic principles, those values.

It is also, in no small measure, because Canada recognizes the long and unbroken history of antiSemitism.

And we know the dangerous facts of history and of human nature, that humans can choose to be inhuman.

Indeed, Israel today is a country whose very existence is under attack both literally and figuratively.

Whether from rockets raining down on Israeli schools, or the constant barrage of rhetorical demonization, double standards or delegitimization, Israel is under attack.

It is symptomatic of that new ill: the new anti-Semitism.

Harnessing disparate anti-Semitic, anti-American and antiWestern ideologies, it targets the Jewish people by targeting the Jewish homeland, Israel, as the source of injustice and conflict in

the world, and uses, perversely, the language of human rights to do so.

We must be relentless in exposing this new anti-Semitism for what it is. Of course, like any country, Israel may be subjected to fair criticism. And like any free country, Israel subjects itself to such criticism – healthy, necessary, democratic debate.

But, when Israel, the only country in the world whose very existence is under attack, is consistently and conspicuously singled out for condemnation, I believe we are morally obligated to take a stand.

For a country like Canada, the easy thing to do would be simply to go along with anti-Israeli sentiment, to get along with other countries.

It would be easier to pretend that engaging in anti-Israeli rhetoric is being somehow evenhanded, and to excuse it under the false pretence of being an honest broker.

It would be easier to get votes, too, as taking a stand – even in defence of a friend – often risks offending someone.

Yes, it would be much easier for us to simply “go along to get along.”

But Canada will not “go along to get along.”

Canada upholds Israel’s right to exist – as a Jewish state – in peace and security.

On this point, there is no space for moral ambivalence. We are compelled as a country of free citizens to speak clearly.

We have the right, and therefore the obligation, to speak out and to act.

Canada will not accept that, or stay silent while, the Jewish state is attacked for defending its territory or its people.

We uphold Israel’s fundamental right to defend innocent civilians against acts of terrorism.

Just as fascism and communism were the great struggles of previous generations, terrorism is the great struggle of ours.

Far too often, the Jewish state is on the front line of our struggle and its people the victims of terror’s scourge.

The Second World War taught us all the tragic price of going along just to get along.

It was accommodation and appeasement that allowed fascism to gather strength.

As Winston Churchill said, “An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last.”

And so we defend Israel’s right to exist. We do so in the strongest of terms and with the full weight of Canada’s “smart power.”

That is not to say that Canada does not support the establishment of a Palestinian state.

To the contrary, our government’s position has been very clear. The status quo is not an option.

We support a two-state solution that is negotiated by the two parties in good faith and without preconditions. We believe the statement by the Quartet this past September lays the foundation for a return to negotiations. We encourage both sides to accept the Quartet’s principles and return to sustained, direct talks.

In that sense, we hold out hope for recent, helpful interventions

by Jordan and others.

Let me conclude by looking forward.

First, a quick story: I was at the United Nations when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the General Assembly this past fall.

I was proud to take my seat and listen to what he had to say.

He didn’t go there to win applause; he went to speak the truth.

He spoke out against militant Islam. He expressed Israel’s continued hope for peace. He urged Palestinians to make peace, recognize Israel and return to the table.

One line in particular that resonated with me was the call to (Continued on page 8)

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 3

Page 4 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Ten Yad holds first Friend-Raising Gala

By Diane Koven Ten Yad of Ottawa, a group of volunteers whose mission is simply to help those in need, was founded three-and-a-half years ago when Esti Fogel gathered together some friends to provide help and support for community members going through a difficult time. Having been ill herself some years ago, and having benefited from the help of friends and family, she realized how important such help can be.

In its relatively brief existence, Ten Yad (Lend a Hand) has grown by leaps and bounds. Now a registered charity with an army of volunteers, the organization remains unaffiliated and independent but works co-operatively with other community agencies to meet common goals. When individuals or families are facing acute, lifealtering situations such as illness or death – or the happy occasion of the birth of a child – volunteers will step in and provide food, transportation, child care or whatever is needed.

In the midst of airplanes of all descriptions in the hall of the Canadian Aviation Museum, the inaugural Friend-Raising Gala for Ten Yad was held on January 29.

Picture the scene: Between the planes sat more than 350 people at elegantly decorated tables, some with candles burning in large crystal chandeliers, as the Central Band of the Canadian Forces Jazz Quintet – for several numbers, the Jazz Quintet plus

Ten Yad founder Esti Fogel addresses the organization’s first Friend-Raising Gala, January 29, at the Canadian Avia(Photo: Issie Scarowsky) tion Museum.

Two – played klezmer and Yiddish-inspired tunes.

The gala showcased Ten Yad, introducing the organization to many members of the community who may not have heard much about it. It was also the venue for the launch of a new cookbook, From the Kitchens of Ten Yad, the sale of which will provide much-needed funds.

Keynote speaker Ari Schonbrun told his

Keynote speaker Ari Schonbrun tells his story of surviving the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City at the Ten Yad Friend-Raising Gala.

(Photo: Issie Scarowsky)

most remarkable tale of “lending a hand� as a survivor of the 9/11 attacks on the twin towers of New York City’s World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 where he was a senior executive at Cantor Fitzgerald. “Only one person walked out without a scratch, and you are looking at that person,� said Schonbrun of the firm’s 662 employees at work that day. “Six hundred and fiftyeight of my friends and co-workers were brutally murdered, simply because they were sitting at their desks, no other reason.�

Three others were badly injured.

Schonbrun described a series of coincidences on that fateful day, which led to his miraculously surviving the explosion and of how he helped a badly burned co-worker escape from the building and get to a hospital for treatment.

“I was plucked out of a burning building ... and somebody asked me why. I need to talk to people and tell people that we live in a world today that is going in the wrong direction and we aren’t doing anything about it. We need to make a change,� he said.

Schonbrun said his personal priorities have drastically changed over the past 10 years. He no longer lives to work, but takes time to enjoy his family and to appreciate life itself. “The next time somebody calls you and asks you to help,� said Schonbrun, “just answer, ‘Ten Yad.’�

A beautiful dessert reception was provided by David Smith of Creative Kosher Catering, a long-time supporter of Ten Yad. Visit tenyad.ca or call 613-618-0485 for more information about Ten Yad.

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February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 5

Three honoured for service and leadership at SJCC AGM

By Pamela Rosenberg Soloway JCC Three outstanding community members were recognized, and new board members were welcomed, January 26, at the annual general meeting of the Soloway Jewish Community Centre (JCC).

Lisa Miller, an active volunteer in many areas of Ottawa’s Jewish community, received the Ben Karp Service Award, established in honour of volunteer extraordinaire Ben Karp, to recognize continued outstanding volunteer service on behalf of the Soloway JCC. Lisa is chair of the Ottawa Jewish Community School and has served on the Soloway JCC Board of Directors.

As president of DMHS Group Inc., a management consulting firm, Lisa specializes in the area of organizational behaviour, facilitation and counselling psychology, and draws on that experience to contribute to the community. She facilitates training sessions in strategic planning, service excellence

and team building for the Jewish Federation of Ottawa, Hillel Lodge, the Soloway JCC and the Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation. She has also designed and facilitated programs and sessions for the Jewish Leadership Development Institute.

“We are truly fortunate to have Lisa as a volunteer,” said Barry Sohn, Soloway JCC president and CEO. “Her skill set and her passion for community have not only allowed the centre to benefit, but the rest of our Jewish community as well.”

Lisa has been co-president of Young Women’s Leadership Council and continues to lead training sessions for the organization.

Michaela Sadinsky and Aaron Robert shared the Grossman-Klein Teen Leadership Award recognizing their outstanding dedication and service to the Jewish community and the community-at-large.

Michaela, a Grade 12 student at the Ottawa Jewish Community School, is in her second term as regional executive/Israeli affairs vice-

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Lisa Miller (left) received the Ben Karp Service Award while Aaron Robert (centre) and Michaela Sadinsky shared the Grossman-Klein Teen Leadership Award at the Soloway JCC AGM, January 26.

(Photo: Peter Waiser)

president of United Synagogue Youth where she plans Israel-themed programs for the Eastern Canadian Region and provides updates on current events. She is incorporating Israel into more programs in the region and is transmitting her passion to the group.

In 2011, Michaela represented her school as one of four participants in the RAVSAK’s Moot Beit Din program, voluntarily devoting time to write a position paper about the moral and halachic issues of cloning, and presenting it to a panel of judges in San Francisco.

Aaron, a Grade 12 student at Glebe Collegiate Institute

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High School, has spent many years volunteering his time in the Jewish community and beyond and is serving his third year as president of his school’s Jewish Culture Club.

As an active member of FROSTY (Federation of Reform Ottawa Senior Temple Youth), Aaron has served as social action vice-president, cabinet historian and teen retreat co-ordinator and is the

executive board minister of membership where his duties include promoting membership and ruach (spirit).

Aaron’s generous spirit extends beyond the Jewish community. He has canvassed for cancer research and CHEO, has volunteered at Camp Red Pine and has helped feed the less fortunate through Parkdale United Church’s In from the Cold soup kitchen.

The Soloway JCC welcomed Jonathan Baker and Scott Streiner to our Board of Directors and thanked departing board members Jackie Luffman-Lyman and Rabbi Menachem Blum for their service over the past four years.

The evening wrapped up with librarian Jack Schecter, Ganon Preschool teacher Alison Popky, Ganon assistant teachers Lauren Lee and Randi Hunui, and fitness centre manager Ryan Armitage all receiving Staff Service Awards. Each was recognized for five years of service at the Soloway JCC.

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Page 6 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Happy birthday Ottawa Jewish Bulletin!

The newspaper you are reading is celebrating its 75th year of publishing as the primary communications vehicle for Ottawa’s Jewish community – a remarkable feat for any newspaper, let alone a Jewish community-run paper.

And that is a reason to celebrate. Each issue this year, Editor Michael Regenstreif is digging up a piece of the past and a special commemorative supplement marking the milestone with be published in the community-wide Chanukah edition on November 26.

But it is also a time to reflect and to look forward to the future to ensure the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin has a prosperous next 75 years in an ever-changing communications world.

That’s why a sub-committee of the Communications and Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Ottawa has begun a top to bottom review of the Bulletin.

Many of the challenges the Bulletin faces are not unique: newspapers and magazines, whether large or small,

Federation Report Stephen Bindman Communications whether dailies, weeklies or monthlies, have witnessed dwindling readership and advertising, and competition from online publications, over the past decade.

Among the issues the review will examine: 1. What should be the goals and mandate of the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin?

2. How can we broaden the reach of the Bulletin? (What are the current demographics of the Bulletin subscriber base and how do they compare to the Jewish community at large?)

3. Is the business model of the Bulletin still relevant? If not, what is a financially sustainable business model that we could implement? Should it continue to be pri-

marily a print publication?

4. What initiatives can be taken to increase the subscriber base in order to get more readers and make it more appealing to advertisers?

5. How can we improve our online presence without compromising our existing subscriber base? How does the Bulletin fit in with the Federation’s broader online strategy?

6. What innovations could we bring to the design of the Bulletin that would enhance the product? Should the size of the Bulletin be reconsidered?

7. What editorial content could be added to the paper to make it more appealing? What editorial content should be removed from the paper?

8. What opportunities exist for the paper to increase revenue or readership that is not being taken advantage of? Is selling ads online an option? Is the Bulletin’s advertising relationship with Ottawa’s Jewish agencies appropriate?

9. Are the community-wide issues published just before Rosh Hashanah and

Chanukah still relevant and do they help the Bulletin meet its goals?

In answering these questions, the review will examine how publications in other Jewish communities deal with these issues.

The review is headed by veteran journalist Mike Shahin. Other members of the sub-committee bring years of expertise in marketing, advertising, editing and the business sides of newspapers.

They would like to hear your views as well.

Please visit surveymonkey.com/s/ 2PKQBR9 to provide your input to some of these questions.

If you have any questions or additional comments regarding the survey, please contact Francie Greenspoon at 613-7984696, ext. 255, or fgreenspoon@ jewishottawa.com.

So, help us build the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin of the future.

I look forward to reporting back to you on any changes we are contemplating.

In the meantime, keep on reading!

Some brief reflections on a complicated situation The days start early and end late when you travel through Israel on an organized tour. There is very little time for reflection and assessment. However, with the tour over, I have been sitting on the porch of the Kibbutz apartment basking in the sun for a few days.

When the sun shines on the mountains and fields in the Jezreel Valley, it is easy to understand why the chalutzim (pioneers) settled here. Fleeing from the pogroms of Eastern Europe and the anti-Semitism of Western Europe, they must have felt they had discovered an uninhibited Shangri-La. The valley has known very little disturbance. Although there were some battles here during the War of Independence, the valley has been protected by geography from the major disruptions these past 63 years. It is the perfect place to reflect on the political situation.

Some thoughts to share with you at the conclusion of this journey: 1. The situation is too complex to be encapsulated in a sound bite, in an op-ed article or in a slogan. There are Israeli Arabs, both Muslim and Christian, who have great pride in being Israeli citizens, though they face discrimination and lack of equity in civil services. But they reap financial benefits along with all Israelis from the successful economy. Even in Bethlehem, Palestinians are financially well off and, having completed the three Christmases of the Christian calendar, they are celebrating the rewards of a great tourist season.

Palestinians, when offered the opportunity to ‘trash Israel,’ are very conflicted. They want an independent state, but, in discussion over coffee and scotch, will tell you

From the pulpit Rabbi Steven Garten Temple Israel they want a thriving Israel next door.

2. The situation is too complex to ignore history. A discussion of events in this part of the world always begins with ‘when shall we begin?’ There is rarely an intelligent conversation that can begin with an analysis of today without discussing yesterday or yesterdays. Can one really speak of the Green Line without acknowledging the events of 1947 and ‘48? Can one really discuss the territories and the settlements without discussing the War of Attrition between 1968 and ‘70? Can you honestly discuss the Oslo Accords without discussing the peace treaty with Jordon a year later? Is it possible to discuss the dismantling of illegal settlements without discussing the issue of terrorism and the two intifadas?

3. The situation is too complex to take one perspective as truth! Rabbi Yehuda Gilad of Ma’ale Gilboa Yeshiva believes that yeshiva study and army service can be combined. He requires his students to study two years in the yeshiva and fulfil a complete army tour of three years. He is a religious Zionist who believes the State of Israel is the first flowering of our redemption and that our traditions and morality can be incorporated into a modern army and state.

This is in opposition to Yeshivot Hesder

whose students serve in segregated army units, object to the equality of woman in the army and resist orders if their rav tells them to. So, are yeshiva students good for the Israel Defense Forces or not?

4. The situation is too complex to make decisions on truth from North America!

Gershon Baskin of the Israel/Palestine Center for Research and Information believes peace is possible. He believes that after 30 years of dialogue with Palestinians there are partners ready for peace and that agreed-upon maps already exist. All that is needed is leadership on both sides to say “Yes,” as Egypt’s president Anwar Sadat, Jordan’s King Hussein and Israel’s prime

minister Yitzhak Rabin did. He believes, too, that Hamas is ready for conversations.

His contact with Hamas led to the release of Gilad Shalit. However, over a Shabbat dinner, two Palestinians, aged 28 and 29, told us the best resolution of the conflict was one state. When asked by a young Israeli what would happen to Jewish nationalism and Jewish independence, they responded that democracy would rule – not very reassuring given the treatment of religious minorities in most Arab lands.

So, after a brief sojourn, it is time to come home and plan the next trip. The situation is too complex to be away for very long.

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February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 7

Rabbi Plaut was a towering figure in Canadian Jewry Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut, one of the towering figures of Reform Judaism, an influential writer and a major leader in Canada’s Jewish community over a period of many years, passed away on February 8 in Toronto at the age of 99 following a struggle with Alzheimer’s disease over the past decade.

Rabbi Plaut, born in 1912, grew up in Germany and received his doctorate in law from the University of Berlin in 1934.

But Jews were banned from the practice of law in Nazi Germany, so he left Germany in 1935 as a refugee to the United States. He studied for the rabbinate at Hebrew Union College and was ordained in 1939.

He returned to Germany during the Second World War as a frontline chaplain in the U.S. Army and participated in the liberation of Nazi concentration camps in 1945.

Rabbi Plaut held pulpits at Reform congregations in Chicago and St. Paul before coming to Toronto’s Holy Blossom Temple in 1961 where he served as spiritual leader until 1978. After retiring from the pulpit, he served as senior scholar at Holy Blossom for more than two decades.

One of Rabbi Plaut’s major works was editing The Torah: A Modern Commentary, a monumental work that took 17 years from conception to publication in 1981, when it became the Reform move-

Editor Michael Regenstreif ment’s standard text. A revised edition was issued in 2005.

As a Jewish community leader, Rabbi Plaut rose to the presidency of the Canadian Jewish Congress serving a three-year term from 1977 to 1980.

In the wider community, Rabbi Plaut was one of Canada’s leading human rights and refugee advocates.

“He was a defender of human and civil rights at a time when many didn’t even know its meaning. We stand on the shoulders of such men,” said Bernie Farber, former CEO of the Canadian Jewish Congress, in a statement quoted by the Toronto Star.

The Star also noted that Rabbi Plaut “founded Toronto’s Urban Alliance for Race Relations, served as vice-chair of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, and was appointed by the federal government to revise Canada’s refugee legislation in the 1980s. Among other honours, he was a Companion of the Order of Canada and received the Order of Ontario. He had

Rabbi Plaut “was a defender of human and civil rights at a time when many didn’t even know its meaning.

We stand on the shoulders of such men.” been granted 19 honorary degrees from institutions around the world including the University of Toronto and York University.”

Rabbi Plaut wrote many other books in addition to his Torah commentary, including works of fiction, and was a widely published commentator in newspapers, magazines and scholarly journals – both in the Jewish and secular communities. I particularly remember Rabbi Plaut’s column, which ran in the Canadian Jewish News for more than 20 years until 2003.

An anthology, Eight Decades: The Selected Writings of W. Gunther Plaut, was published in 2008.

I join in paying tribute to this remarkable leader of Canada’s Jewish community and in sending condolences to his family.

Mitzvah Day As I write, the Jewish Federation of Ottawa is in high gear preparing for Mitzvah Day, an annual event when many people from all segments of the community, from young children to young-at-heart seniors, come together and spend a few hours doing all kinds of good deeds benefitting a variety of worthy causes in Ottawa’s Jewish community, in the broader Ottawa community, and in such far-off locales as Haiti and Guyana.

Although I’m writing these words a few days before Mitzvah Day, you’re reading this issue of the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin some days after the February 12 event.

So, watch for stories and photos from Mitzvah Day in our March 5 issue.

OJCS theatre production Another event taking place after we go to press and before this issue arrives in your home is the Ottawa Jewish Community School’s high school production of Arthur Miller’s classic Death of a Salesman.

The play’s run, from February 14 to 16, is the school’s entry in Canada’s Capital Cappie program for high school theatre productions.

We’ll also have a spread of photos from Death of a Salesman taken by Howard Sandler in the March 5 issue.

Changing their minds is a Liberal party tradition At the recent Liberal Party of Canada convention in Ottawa, no one seemed surprised, outwardly disappointed or even disillusioned that Bob Rae seems to be more and more determined to change his mind about stepping down as leader in 2013.

Did Rae not clearly say he would only be interim leader for two years? The deal and solemn understanding went like this: the Liberal party needed an interim leader who would not be advantaged in the scheduled leadership race in 2013. It all made sense last May as the Liberals picked up the pieces after their horrible 2011 election showing in every region of the country.

There are many who want to make the argument that says to heck with the rules and any understanding that may have been reached; Bob Rae may be the one and only serious candidate. Those people would also argue that things have changed since the death of NDP leader Jack Layton. But that view overlooks a less talked about subject within the party: generational change.

Look at the makeup of today’s House of Commons. It is filled with younger people.

After the 2015 election, the average age will probably be even younger.

The Liberals seemed to begin to get the generational change message at the con-

Jason Moscovitz vention when old guard Sheila Copps was defeated, by a reported 26 votes, in her bid to become party president. The new president is new generation Mike Crawley. On his website he likes the term “bold new beginning.”

While Rae may seem like the only obvious choice, Liberals should remember their own history in that regard. The Liberals have a tradition of backing the obvious choice and John Turner, Paul Martin and Michael Ignatieff are prime examples of where the obvious can sometimes lead.

The next leader doesn’t have to have a seat in the House of Commons. Brian Mulroney didn’t when he became Progressive Conservative Party leader in 1983.

And the next leader doesn’t have to be part of the establishment. Stephen Harper wasn’t in his days in either the Progressive Conservative Party or the Reform Party.

Our present prime minister actually fought

the establishment of both parties he was a member of, and who could argue with his success?

The other important issue is about doing what you said you would do. When Rae will not emphatically say he is interim leader only, he is going back on his word.

History tells us political leaders in all political parties go back on their word, but, somehow, Liberal leaders seem to have done it, perhaps a little more often, on matters of substance and principle. That could be a function of having been in power longer than any other party.

It began a long time ago. Liberals had a knack for being tricky. The more important the issue, the trickier they could be. Remember, in our history, at the height of the conscription crisis during the Second World War, Mackenzie King went to the voters saying, “Not necessarily conscription, but conscription if necessary.”

In the 1974 election, Pierre Trudeau ridiculed Conservative leader Robert Stanfield’s call for wage and price controls.

Once elected, Trudeau imposed the same wage and price controls he had ridiculed.

In 1979, Trudeau resigned as Liberal party leader. Six months later, he did the unthinkable. He came back when poll numbers showed he could beat the defeat-

ed minority government of Joe Clark.

In that 1980 election, Trudeau once again made fun of a Conservative leader’s election promise. Clark’s budget called for an 18 cent per gallon tax on gasoline to pay down the deficit. Trudeau came to power and raised gas taxes at least threefold. He also changed Canada to the metric system, so no one knew what they were paying in litres instead of gallons.

In 1993, Jean Chrétien’s Liberals were going to kill the GST as soon as they were elected. At least that’s what they promised in the election campaign. Chalk it up. Another major election promise broken.

Rae may not have been a Liberal all this life, but he seems to have learned how to be one. In the true traditions of this once highly successful political party, reality is sometimes measured in short capsules of time. When Rae said he was going to be the interim leader of the Liberal Party, it may have been absolutely true – at the moment he said it.

To be absolutely fair to Rae, you could ask the following question: Had Jack Layton not passed away, and had things not changed as much as they have, would he still be as reluctant as he currently is to call himself the interim leader? Only Mr. Rae knows for sure.

Page 8 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Mailbag Response to Rabbi Bulua The letter from Rabbi Mordechai Bulua (Gay Rabbi, January 23) presents a strong Orthodox reaction in opposition to Rabbi Steven Greenberg, an Orthodox rabbi who is openly gay.

Rabbi Greenberg presented a Shabbaton at Agudath Israel in September and is the author of Wrestling with God & Men: Homosexuality on the Jewish Tradition, which explores the possibilities of a more open position on homosexuality than has been, at least until recently, the case in most branches of Judaism.

However, so far as I can see from Rabbi Bulula’s letter, not one of Rabbi Greenberg’s propositions, as presented in the book, is challenged. Nor do any of his opponents, at least as reported by Rabbi Bulua, criticize Rabbi Greenberg’s halachic analysis.

Rather, they simply revert to the Levitical statements about male homosexuality to condemn him, and his recent

bulletin@ottawajewishbulletin.com act of officiating at a same-sex wedding (which may have been labelled a “commitment ceremony,” but I doubt that that difference would have reduced the condemnation).

Rabbi Bulua goes on to say that Rabbi Greenberg should no longer be considered an Orthodox rabbi, and also suggests that some kind of de-ordination process be instituted for the rabbinate.

What a pity!

Granted, each branch of Judaism has to draw lines on what rabbis can and cannot do. The Rabbinical Assembly, for example, forbids Conservative rabbis from officiating at religiously mixed marriages.

Would it not have been better to initiate a process for exploring the halachah of gay relationships in Orthodox communities? Why are interpretations of the Law that have been observed in the past impervious to insights from the present?

David B. Brooks

Letters welcome Letters to the Editor are welcome if they are brief, signed, timely and of interest to our readership. The Bulletin reserves the right to refuse, edit or condense letters. The Mailbag column will be published as space permits.

Send your letters to Michael Regenstreif, Ottawa Jewish Bulletin, 21 Nadolny Sachs Private, Ottawa, Ontario K2A 1R9; or e-mail him at mregenstreif@ottawajewishbulletin.com.

Return to negotiations for lasting peace (Continued from page 2)

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“stop negotiating about the negotiations.”

Canada could not agree more.

The unifying factor in the uprisings that have crested across the Arab world is a popular despair about a lack of jobs, hope and opportunity.

Such sentiments are natural, yet such uprisings are, by their nature, unpredictable and tough to corral once unleashed.

By returning to negotiations for a lasting peace, by resisting temptations to apply preconditions to talks, and by avoiding measures that would seek to prejudge the outcome of the talks, the Palestinian leadership could immediately take steps toward a more measured, stable transition to statehood.

Hamas, and other leaders who advocate violence, must renounce terrorism and the barbarians that commit it, if they are to play a legitimate part in the future for Palestinians.

A negotiated settlement is the best route forward to ensure that Palestinians are “neither the citizens of Israel nor its subjects,” to quote Netanyahu last fall.

Palestinians and Israelis deserve free states of their own.

They deserve to live in peace, security and human dignity.

To that end, both must use the responsibility of their freedom for good.

Canada stands willing to help in any way it can. Our large Diaspora communities are certainly watching closely.

More than 60 years ago, Israel appeared as a light in a world emerging from deep darkness.

Against all odds – and despite concerted efforts by some – the light has not been extinguished.

It burns still and it burns ever brighter when upheld by the principles of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

There is room for more light in this region, especially as the darkness of swirling regional uncertainty threatens to close in. There is room for two states respecting the principles of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rules of law.

Working together, we strengthen and affirm these important principles in word and deed.

And we declare our choice to use our freedoms and shared humanity for good, not evil.

Barry Silverman

Ottawa Jewish Bulletin appointment The Ottawa Jewish Bulletin has announced the appointment of Barry Silverman to the position of Business Manager. A veteran of the newspaper industry, he has assumed responsibility for advertising sales and subscriptions.

Barry can be reached at 613-798-4696, ext. 256 or bsilverman@ottawajewishbulletin.com.

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 9

Registration now open at OJCS for 2012-2013 school year

Advertorial

JEWISH NATIONAL FUND More than trees 613.798.2411

Oliver Javanpour president

From donation to wastewater recycling to Sharon fruit Thank you, again, to all who supported Jewish National Fund (JNF) through our Tu Bi’Shevat Tree-A-Thon Campaign. Our phone calls were returned from all over the world. People spending time in Israel, Florida and elsewhere took the time to call us back to make sure they have the opportunity to donate. For this passion and commitment, JNF Ottawa and the beneficiaries of our projects in Israel thank you.

Some donors have suggested that they would like to make multi-year pledges (max three years) for the Tu Bi’Shevat Tree-A-Thon. We are highly interested in your feedback on this new concept that will make donating to this worthy cause easier for you.

Every now and then, it is nice to update you with the latest statistics on what JNF has been doing. We are now up to 240 million trees, no small contribution toward making Israel the only country to enter the 21st century with a net gain in its number of trees. As important as that contribution is, JNF has lots of other numbers, too. JNF has: • Reclaimed land for about 1,000 communities throughout Israel • Reclaimed some 250,000 acres of land for farming • Purchased some 650,000 acres of land for settlement • Forged 7,000 km of roads and forest routes • Built 1,000 recreation areas throughout the country • Helped build 220 reservoirs and dams The 220 water reservoirs and dams make Israel a leader in water recycling. The reservoirs use purified wastewater and runoff to provide about half the water used for agriculture in Israel. I thought about this recently while eating Sharon fruit, a type of persimmon that came to me from Israel via the grocery store. With half the water for agriculture coming from JNF reservoirs, it felt good to be eating fruit that I, however indirectly, probably helped to grow. I also noticed in Britain’s Daily Mail that a recent study showed that one medium-sized persimmon a day can help fight atherosclerosis, and, maybe, cancer as well, so I felt even better about that.

But I digress. Back to the water technology.

JNF showcased its water recycling projects in November 2011 at WATEC, the Water Technologies Exhibition, in Tel Aviv, where water scientists gathered to share advances in water preservation technologies. The JNF booth at WATEC highlighted our work with water reservoirs, river rehabilitation, wastewater purification and wetlands management that is funded by contributions from JNF supporters around the world.

JNF also hosted an event on forest practices and climate change in conjunction with the December 2011 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Durban, South Africa. Events like these are part of JNF’s efforts to share the fruits of our investment in Israel with other countries, especially developing countries, which could also benefit from low-tech and highly efficient solutions for water and forest management.

Thanks again, and think about the Sharon fruit – it’s fantastic.

On a daily basis you can plant trees for all occasions. An attractive card is sent to the recipient.

To order, call the JNF office (613.798.2411).

By Sheldon Friedman Ottawa Jewish Community School Over the past several months, we’ve shared news about the staffing, administrative, curriculum and communication improvements that have been introduced to improve the Ottawa Jewish Community School (OJCS). We’re now in the process of finalizing new initiatives for the next academic year. Our staff is motivated and excited to continue along this innovative path into next year and beyond.

Right now, our focus is to increase the use of technology in our curriculum delivery and to improve timetable blocking to allow for more physical education and art.

We’ve previously shared with you the benefits of a Jewish day school education: giving your children a competitive advantage; providing them with critical thinking skills; and providing them with a welcoming and creative atmosphere where learning is encouraged and embraced. Our Jewish Studies program is something parents can be proud of. As well as an excellent academic education, we are giving students a foundation to become confident Jews and strong community leaders.

We encourage you to ask questions and visit our school.

The Yitzhak Rabin High School Division will host an open house on Wednesday, February 29 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm.

This is an opportunity for parents and potential students to speak with current students and teachers about the ministry-approved curriculum, the in-

Grade 2 students at the Ottawa Jewish Community School work together on a math problem.

teresting and stimulating Jewish Studies component, the extended French program, and our extracurricular activities. A background in Hebrew is not a prerequisite to be eligible to register. If you and your family are interested in an excellent secondary education in a supportive interactive Jewish environment, then I encourage you visit and learn more.

The Hillel Elementary Division will host an open house on Thursday, March 1 from 9:00 to 10:30 am. We hope you will visit and see first-hand the Yiddishkeit, the excitement and the safe and caring environment that is OJCS. While the cost of private school is a substantial investment, sending your child to OJCS makes you eligible for tax credits. That makes OJCS one of the most affordable private school op-

tions in the city. A charitable contribution receipt, based on Revenue Canada guidelines, is issued for a significant portion of the cost of tuition. In 2010, it was approximately 70 per cent. The charitable contribution becomes a non-refundable tax credit (offset to taxes payable) at a 29 per cent rate for federal taxes and an 11 per cent rate for Ontario provincial taxes.

Our planning for next year requires the input of our enrolment figures.

We’re asking parents to enrol and reenrol promptly this year, completing application and re-enrolment forms by March 31. Registration packets are available at our office and can be sent to you.

Contact Ellie Kamil at 613-7220020 or e.kamil@theojcs.ca to learn more about becoming part of the OJCS family this September.

GRAND OPENING Saturday, February 25 1809 Carling Avenue Book Signings from Author & Cooking Show Host Kathy Smart 12:00 - 1:30 Live the Smart Way: Gluten Free Cookbook and Author Carol Fazari from Allergic Solution 2:30 - 4:30 Freedom from the Fire: a Guide to Healing Inflammation with Food Free Samples & Prizes Paninis, Sandwiches, Salads, Soups & More Always Fresh, Local & Delicious Selection of Retail Gluten Free, Kosher & Organic Products 613-695-6001 Catering Available 1lazypickle@gmail.com

Page 10 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

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- Design your Ketubah.

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Temple Israel Friday Kabbalat Shabbat Services 6:15 pm Saturday Shabbat Services 10:15 am Purim Wednesday, March 7 Friday evening, March 9 bring your own dinner at 7:00 pm following Services Adult Education for info, see our web site For more info please go to www.templeisraelottawa.ca 1301 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa, ON K2C 1N2 www.templeisraelottawa.ca 613-224-1802

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 11

Lawrence Gradus honoured Celebration Gala, an evening of dance, February 24, at Centrepointe Theatre, will honour Ottawa-based, internationally renowned choreographer Lawrence Gradus for his contribution to dance in Canada. The program will include Gradus’ signature ballet, “Tribute.”

The evening is presented by the Ballet Society of OttawaGatineau and Ottawa Dance Centre in collaboration with the dance programs at École secondaire publique De La Salle, Canterbury High School, and 13 dance studios in the Ottawa area.

For tickets, call Centrepointe Theatre at 613-580-2700.

From our past Young friends and relatives surround Neil Bordelay (centre) on the occasion of his bar mitzvah, 50 years ago, in January 1962, at Congregation Beth Shalom. Among those in the picture is future actor Saul Rubinek standing just behind Bordelay on the left. The photo was submitted by Bordelay’s cousin, Debbie Baylin, then Debbie Kardish, who can be seen on the far left in the second row from the top. Many of other people in the picture still live in Ottawa.

Page 12 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Musica Ebraica prepares for concert of Jewish choral music

By Esther Shetzer For Musica Ebraica It’s all about the music for the members of Musica Ebraica. The choir’s mandate is to bring beautiful Jewish music to the attention of Ottawa audiences. Their next concert is February 26 at Temple Israel.

“Our music is so varied and interesting, musically and historically, and no one else focuses on it to such an extent in Ottawa,” said Musica Ebraica President Patsy Royer. “Many of us in the choir have been singing together now for 11 years and sometimes we revisit music we have performed in the past. It is like welcoming old friends into your home to hear those harmonies and sing those words.”

Each new season brings the challenge of selecting new repertoire and a theme for performances.

This is a collaborative effort undertaken by choir members with an eye to achieving the right combination of complexity, innovation and neshama (soul). Musica Ebraica has an extensive library developed over the years, primarily by past conductor Dave Malec-

Musica Ebraica rehearses at Temple Israel.

ki, accompanist Carol Gurofsky and founding member Minda Wershof.

In addition to delving into pieces in modern and ancient Hebrew, the choir enjoys the challenge of mastering works in Ladino, Spanish, French, English and Yiddish. Newcomer Shaina Lipsey is enthusiastic about the opportunity to learn and perform Yiddish pieces in choral arrange-

ments and helps ensure correct pronunciation of often difficult phrases.

“I’ve sung in a few Ottawa choirs in the past, but singing with Musica Ebraica was like coming home,” said Lipsey. “Yiddish was my first language and getting to sing a mix of classical and modern pieces in both Hebrew and Yiddish is great.”

The theme for Musica

Ebraica’s February 26 concert is Miboker ad Erev: From Morning to Evening, with a special nod to the 100th anniversary of the kibbutz movement that was celebrated in 2010. The lively repertoire includes “Or,” a song about life stages written by Naomi Shemer; “Ba’ah Menucha,” about a weary labourer resting after a hard day’s work; and a new arrangement of the classic “Erev Shel

Shoshanim.”

“Durme Durme,” a Ladino lullaby, and “Yesh Li Gan,” a Yemeni-style tune popularized in Israel by Ofra Haza, will also be part of the presentation. “Chalutzim Lieder,” a Yiddish composition of pioneer songs, and “Hora Mamtera (the Sprinkler Hora),” a song that pays homage to the kibbutz irrigation system, add to the eclectic mix.

With the hard work of perfecting the pieces for performances comes the camaraderie of working together and the joy of Jewish music.

“Good choral singing is just as lovely to perform as to listen to,” said Royer. “It is great exercise for the body and the mind, and to be able to present Jewish music to the community-at-large is just an added bonus.”

The Musica Ebraica concert is Sunday, February 26, 2:00 pm, at Temple Israel, 1301 Prince of Wales Drive.

Tickets are $20 (general admission) and $15 (students). For information or tickets, contact Patsy Royer at 613-233-3099 or proyer@rogers.com. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Advertorial

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growing faith in its ability to improve. It is my opinion that a majority of people still do not have a clear understanding of what yoga has to offer. Part of the problem is that the people who can really benefit from a suitable class will stay away because of misconceptions about what it is and isn't, or that they can not do it.

Yoga is especially beneficial for those who have little strength, energy, or flexibility. I say this because this is how I started. I was born with severe scoliosis (curvature of the spine). I wore a back brace for four years. Once the brace was removed, my muscles would continuously go into painful spasms. I used drugs to cope and numb my pain, and to help escape the reality of my situation, before finding health through the practice of yoga.

Anyone who experiences pain understands the fear of exercising again. Although rest is sometimes needed after an injury, prolonged inactivity is counterproductive. If inactivity persists for very long, muscles become weak, and increasingly susceptible to re-injury.

Re-injury creates more pain, which leads to more inactivity, which causes more muscle weakness, which further predisposes you to injury. This cycle of deterioration is further accelerated by depression that can accompany inactivity and pain.

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Yoga teaches that, when these elements are working together, you dramatically improve your chances for health and healing.

Yoga can change your life. If you are sick, it can help you feel better. If you

A yoga program must be approached with great respect for your body and a

In this article I am asking you to think about yoga as healing – a concept that is still new for most people.

Yoga may be the last thing on your mind if you are suffering from Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Back Pain, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, etc, but anyone can do “some type of yoga.” You start from wherever you are not from where you use to be, or would like to be.

Yoga has other advantages in that it can complement conventional medicine, as a properly chosen yoga practice is extremely unlikely to interact in

any way with any other treatments.

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February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 13

A Touch of Klez will perform at Klez 5, March 25 at Machzikei Hadas, in support of the Ottawa Kosher Food Bank.

Fifth klezmer fundraiser for Kosher Food Bank to be held March 25

By Toby Brooks for Ottawa Kosher Food Bank Klez 5, our annual celebration of Jewish music in support of the Ottawa Kosher Food Bank, will be held March 25.

With spring soon to be in the air, it’s an opportunity to kick off your shoes and join us for a lively evening of music and dance featuring A Touch of Klez, Ottawa’s own klezmer band, and the illustrious choir, Musica Ebraica.

No one imagined, in 2008, when the first klezmer evening was held to benefit the Kosher Food Bank, that it would become an annual event to which the whole community looks forward. If you’ve missed it in the past, now is the time to experience the joy for yourself.

A Touch of Klez performs frequently.

They entertain residents at Hillel Lodge and have performed at the Canadian Tulip Festival and at WestFest. Their music emphasizes traditional dance tunes, including bulgars, shers, Yiddish horas and traditional waltzes. They’ll be playing both fast and slow dances so that everyone can participate and will throw in a few niggunim for those who like to sing along.

A Touch of Klez includes Irwin Brodo (mandolin), Ruth Mendell and Peter Teitelbaum (clarinet), Eric Elkin (flute and piccolo), Shaina Lipsey (vocals), Jackie Langsner

(keyboard), Fred Brown (bass), Steve Shapransky (drums) and Don McVeigh (banjo).

Musica Ebraica, with 22 singers, pianist Carol Gurofsky and conductor Iain Macpherson, will present a selection of beautiful melodies to touch the hearts of everyone. Musica Ebraica’s two CDs will be available for sale at Klez 5.

In 2008, the first event was sponsored by just three shuls, but sponsorship and community support have grown steadily over the years. This year, Klez 5 is co-sponsored by Adath Shalom, Agudath Israel, Congregation Beth Shalom, Congregation Machzikei Hadas, Or Haneshamah and Temple Israel.

Klez 5, an evening of music and dance, takes place Sunday, March 25, 7:00 pm, at the Machzikei Hadas social hall, 2310 Virginia Drive. Free parking is available in the synagogue’s parking lot.

Admission is by donation, with proceeds going to the Ottawa Kosher Food Bank.

Cheques should be made out to Agudath Israel Congregation, noting “Ottawa Kosher Food Bank” on the memo line. You may also bring non-perishable food items with kosher labels.

Light refreshments will be served during intermission.

For further information, or to become a sponsor, call Toby Brooks at 613-234-1649.

In Appreciation The family of the late Sylvia Goldin wish to express their sincere gratitude to their family and friends for their support, donations, shiva meals, sympathy cards and visits.

The Goldin, Schwartz and Glube families

Page 14 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

OMJS students celebrate holidays with Lodge residents

By Janet Kaiman Ottawa Modern Jewish School The young – junior kindergarten to Grade 3 – students of Ottawa Modern Jewish School (OMJS) and the residents of Hillel Lodge have celebrated Tu B’Shevat, Chanukah and Sukkot together as part of a new initiative for the OMJS students to develop meaningful connections with the local Jewish community. The generation gap between the OMJS students and the Lodge residents has been bridged with smiles, song, games and promises to continue their valuable friendships.

Our partnership with Hillel Lodge has enriched the lives of our students and has certainly expanded our OMJS community.

We plan to expand this partnership by developing a tikkun olam project for the Grades 4/5 students and Hillel Lodge.

Another recent initiative by OMJS is the

Being Jewish Program for Grades 6/7. This is an exploration of what it means to each individual to become a teenager in Ottawa’s Jewish community by exploring both the Jewish life cycle and Ottawa’s Jewish community. The unit on kashrut involved a scavenger hunt at Loblaws, and guest speakers sharing their expertise have included Dr. Lisa Rosencrantz, a physician and mohel.

Other recent guest speakers at OMJS have included Sarah Loewenthal, author of So Near, and Yet So Far: Klara’s Voyage on the MS St. Louis, who did a reading of the book, and representatives of Ten Yad and Jewish Family Services who spoke about the value of volunteerism.

Adult courses, in partnership with JET, as well as bar/bat mitzvah how-to discussions have also been popular additions to OMJS activities.

Hillel Lodge residents enjoy tossing balls with junior kindergarten to Grade 3 students of Ottawa Modern Jewish School.

Toronto rabbi proclaims new Boteach book ‘forbidden’ TORONTO (JTA) – A prominent Orthodox rabbi in Toronto has condemned the latest book by celebrity Rabbi Shmuley Boteach and pronounced it is “forbidden” for anyone to buy or read it.

In an open letter published on the Algemeiner website, Rabbi Immanuel Schochet denounced Rabbi Boteach’s new book, Kosher Jesus, as “heretical.” (tinyurl.com/SchochetBoteach) The book “poses a tremendous risk to the Jewish community,” wrote

Rabbi Shmuley Boteach

Rabbi Schochet, an emeritus professor of philosophy and religion at Toronto’s Humber College and spiritual leader of the city’s Con-

gregation Beth Joseph.

“I have never read a book, let alone one authored by a purported frum (religious) Jew, that does more to enhance the evangelical missionary message and agenda than the aforementioned book,” Rabbi Schochet wrote. “It is forbidden for anyone to buy or read this book, or give its author a platform in any way, shape or form to discuss this topic.”

The volume “must be rejected for being heretical,” he said.

The latest offering from Rabbi Boteach, who had

come under fire from fellow rabbis years ago for offering spiritual advice to the late singer Michael Jackson and for authoring the 1999 book Kosher Sex, explores the Jewish roots of Jesus and whether the exploration should lead modern Jews to “rediscover” and celebrate the extent to which the Hebrew Bible shaped his thinking.

In a lengthy response that has been widely disseminated online, Rabbi Boteach shot back, saying he “must

retain the right to defend myself against the appalling and libelous charge of heresy.” (tinyurl.com/Boteachresponse) Rabbi Boteach said his book paints Jesus as “a Torah-observant Jew whose mission it was to restore Jewish observance fully among his Jewish brethren and fight Roman persecution.”

“It’s time these universal Jewish ideas that have so influenced the world be traced back to their original

source,” Rabbi Boteach wrote in defence of his book.

“It’s time that the Jewishness of Jesus be rediscovered by Christians.”

As for Rabbi Schochet’s charge that the book will embolden Christians to convert Jews, Rabbi Boteach said it “is the ultimate argument against Christian missionaries” [because it offers] significant information to argue convincingly against any Christian attempt to evangelize Jews.”

Foreign minister visits Kfar Chabad

Rabbi Chaim Mendelsohn (centre) director of public affairs for the Canadian Federation of Chabad-Lubavitch and director of Chabad of Centrepointe, leads Foreign Minister John Baird on a tour of communal institutions in Kfar Chabad, beginning with the headquarters of Chabad-Lubavitch operations in Israel. The tour, January 31, concluded with a reception hosted by the Chabad Terror Victims Project where Baird met with and heard stories from Israeli (Photo: Meir Alfasi) victims of terror.

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 15

Magillah to present Purim concert at SJCC

By Roslyn Wollock Soloway JCC This is another Magillah for Purim this year – a band that plays klezmer, Israeli and Jewish music, which romps through the boundaries of musical genre with the same delicious high drama as the Megillat Esther.

Magillah, the Montreal-based band, will perform at the Soloway Jewish Community Centre (JCC) less than a week before Purim on Saturday, March 3.

Just as Jewish music is forged from many disparate cultural and instrumental traditions, the members of Magillah also come from a variety of artistic backgrounds including musical theatre, classical music, jazz, French popular music, klezmer and world music to perform traditional Yiddish music and 20th century Israeli music with a contemporary sheen.

Accordionist Henri Oppenheim was born in Paris and now resides in Montreal. As noted at magillah.com, he “studied composition and orchestration at McGill University and directed the Montreal klezmer ensemble Kleztory for four years,” including concerts with the Montreal and Quebec City symphony orchestras and the chamber orchestra I Musici de Montreal with whom he recorded a CD in 2004.

Vocalist Michelle Heisler, who performed at the Soloway JCC in October as a member of the Montreal Yiddish Theatre Singers, is a graduate of McGill University and the Amer-

Magillah brings its brand of klezmer, Jewish and Israeli music to the SJCC on March 3.

ican Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. She has starred in many Dora Wasserman Yiddish Theatre productions, most recently Those Were the Days in 2011.

Violinist Julie Triquet, a member of I Musici de Montreal, brings her background in classical music to Magillah, while bassist

Mathieu Deschenaux brings his jazz experience and percussionist Eric Breton adds the colours of world music to the layering of cultural and instrumental traditions.

Magillah’s music is a combination of song, violin, drums, heart and soul, humour, great melodies and groove. What better way

to welcome the joyous holiday of Purim?

The Magillah concert is Saturday, March 3, 8:00 pm. Admission is $15. Tickets are available at the Soloway JCC front desk or at the door. For information, contact Roslyn Wollock at 613-798-9818, ext. 254, or rwollock@jccottawa.com.

Page 16 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

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February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 17

Guest column

Freedom Ride in Jerusalem on bus line 56

By Rabbi Steven Garten I rode a bus in Jerusalem on the morning of January 22.

That, in and of itself, was not unusual. What made that 90-minute journey unique was that it had been arranged

by Anat Hoffman, director of the Israel Religious Action Centre (IRAC), for me and Judith Sudilovsky, a freelance journalist on assignment for Na’amat Woman magazine.

Our task was to observe and record gender segregation on Egged bus line 56. On this bus route and others, both in Jerusalem and between Jerusalem and other cities, haredim insist that women sit in the back of the bus and, when possible, only enter through the back door.

IRAC has been instrumental in having the Israeli Supreme Court declare segregated buses illegal. However, both Egged, the semi-public bus line, and the haredim, ultra-Orthodox Jews of Israel, have had difficulty implementing the Supreme Court decision. This was one of many Freedom Rides undertaken by men and women to assess the impact of the ruling on public transportation. It should be noted that the new light rail service in Jerusalem, which is privately owned, does not have this problem. In fact, Arabs and Israelis ride comfortably together and the train line crosses through both East and West Jerusalem.

I did not ride the buses in the American South in the early-1960s. Even I was a little too young for those Freedom Rides.

However, it is not difficult to imagine how the buses, which run through haredi neighbourhoods, manifest the same kind of Jim Crow laws. Haredi men enter only through the front door of the bus. They stand and sit in a manner that inhibits and physically blocks women from entering from the front door. They insist, either verbally or through hand motions, that women enter through the rear door.

What amazed me was those women entering at the rear will, more than likely, not pay for the bus ride – and the driver colludes with this practice in order not to upset the Haredi men. Women who have the strength or tenacity to enter through the front are discouraged from sitting or standing there. If non-haredi woman enter through the front door, they can experience verbal reminders or physical reminders that they are not welcome in the front of the bus.

On our journey, Anat sat in a pod of four seats, Judith sat in a row of two seats, and I sat alone, all in the front of the bus. In the first 15 minutes, only women entered the

bus and all moved rapidly to the rear. The first man to enter was Masorti, traditional, not haredi, and he sat next to Judith. As the bus progressed from the haredi community toward the city centre, many men entered but stood rather than sit next to Anat. Women who entered through the front door of the stretch bus walked a gauntlet of black coated men who did all they could to impede their movement as punishment for violating their space.

About 40 minutes into the journey, a traditionally dressed Sephardic woman entered the bus through the front door. Confronted by a sea of black coats, she shrugged her shoulders and sat next to Anat. A few minutes later, another modestly dressed, head-covered woman entered. Confronting the same scene, she shrugged her shoulders and sat across from Anat. Finally, a middle-aged man took the fourth seat. As people entered and exited, the seats next to Anat and Judith remained filled with both men and woman.

It is not unusual for us in Canada to ruminate about the cultural/religious rights of minorities in a multicultural society. Should a woman be allowed to cover her face, outside her home when dealing with civic authorities? Should cultural/religious norms be accommodated in the public schools, police forces and public spaces? Should cultural/religious norms of a minority be imposed on the majority? These are significant questions. Our courts and the court of public opinion continue to wrestle with them.

The demand by haredim in Israel for segregated buses, segregated public sidewalks, restricted public roads during Shabbat and chagim are another kind of challenge for a democratic Jewish state. If the religious norms of one group are allowed to supersede the civil rights of the majority, how are those decisions made? Are these rights only available to Jewish minorities, not Muslim or Christian minorities?

These are serious questions which the State of Israel has to confront. In many ways, they are as important as questions of peace and security.

I look forward to following how our brothers and sisters in Israel resolve these vexing issues.

Anat Hoffman, director of the Israel Religious Action Centre.

Page 18 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 19

Page 20 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Leonard Cohen explores themes of love, human mortality and spirituality in new songs about old ideas LEONARD COHEN Old Ideas Columbia leonardcohen.com The songs of Leonard Cohen have been an important part of my life since 1968, when – like almost everyone in Montreal (or, at least, English-speaking Montreal) into music and/or poetry – I sat down with his newly released first LP, Songs of Leonard Cohen, a masterwork of songwriting.

I lost myself in Cohen’s voice, his music and his words on that album. Especially the words. I’ve been listening to those songs, over and over again, and to the songs on every album he’s released since, and I still find layers of meaning and new ways to interpret so many of them.

A well-established man of letters, a poet and novelist, who was well into his 30s before recording that first album, Cohen has never been a simple singer-songwriter churning out ephemeral pop music.

Even the songs on Cohen’s minor albums like Death of a Ladies Man or the somewhat uneven Dear Heather have kept me enthralled. And I’ve stayed enthralled when listening, over and over again, to albums like I’m Your Man built around mechanical-sounding, programmed keyboards, an approach to music-making I generally loath and have no time for in the hands of almost anyone but Leonard Cohen.

Curiously, despite using variations on that programmed keyboard approach on much of his recorded work since 1988, his concert tours in that same period have featured ensembles of world-class musicians and harmony singers and impeccable arrangements.

This brings us to Old Ideas, the song-poet’s latest masterwork. Recorded in the wake of a two-year world tour, the sound of music played by real musicians – happily – outweighs the mechanical sound of programmed keyboards.

It’s very intimate music-making. The arrangements, mostly, are quiet, and Cohen’s singing, mostly, is conversational – conversational and hypnotically mesmerizing.

Music Michael Regenstreif I referred to the album as a masterwork and, indeed, it is.

Like so much of his best work, there are layers and layers of meaning and understanding that I think will continue to reveal themselves over a period of years of repeated listening.

That’s already started to happen for me with several songs, perhaps most notably with “Amen,” a long, prayerlike song, possibly a conversation with God. At first, when Cohen sings that he’s “been to the river” and then makes reference to the “Laws of Remorse,” I thought the song might be inspired by the Tashlich ceremony of Rosh Hashanah when the sins of the past year are symbolically cast into the water. I still think that’s part of what the song is about.

On second and third listening, though, piecing together the different images – “the horror,” “the victims,” the “night [that] has no right to begin,” “the filth of the butcher,” “the Eye of the Camp,” and several others – I now think the song’s major theme is a deep rumination on the Holocaust, perhaps an attempt to address one of the most difficult questions of modern Jewish philosophy: how could God have allowed the Holocaust to occur?

Another song I’ve interpreted differently on subsequent playing is “Crazy to Love You,” which Cohen performs solo – just his voice and nylon-string guitar.

On one level, it’s seemingly a song about the craziness some go through early in a relationship as they try to mould themselves into who they want the romantic object of desire to think they are.

But, then, I thought maybe it’s about the craziness that performing artists – singers, actors, etc., even poets – go through in establishing the

character or persona under which they perform.

Among my first favourites is “Banjo,” which seems to use an image of a broken banjo floating on the sea as a metaphor for something that is personal and important that has been lost. When the brass section comes in midway through the song with its echoes of a New Orleans second line march, it suggests the broken banjo floating out there represents all the music-making that was lost to Hurricane Katrina.

Although much of Old Ideas ponders such major themes as love, human mortality and spirituality, it’s not an album bereft of humour. In the opening song, “Going Home,” Cohen sings about himself in the third-person. Is it his inner muse singing about his outer person, or, as Freud might have it, his super-ego singing about his ego and id? Or, is it just Cohen having some fun?

And speaking of humour, look at the album cover.

Cohen, in his trademarked black suit and hat, is sitting in a backyard in the sun with a book. So much of his work over the years has suggested the hours of night, of darkness, but there he is, sitting in the sun.

One of the beauties of Cohen’s work is that it’s so open to interpretation. Every song on Old Ideas is layered with ideas – the ideas Cohen had when he wrote the songs, and maybe more that continued to grow; and certainly the ideas that each of us, individually, hears and develops from listening and endlessly re-listening to the songs.

What I hear in these old ideas is not necessarily what anyone else hears, or even what the poet – part Jewish mystic who studied www.2112Thistle.com endlessly as a boy with his Alta Vista Executive Home. High end finishes throughgrandfather, a rabbi and out. A grand residence with 5-bdrms, 3.5 baths + a fin Talmudic scholar, and part lower level. Landscaped to perfection w/rear patios & Zen monk – might have inin-ground pool. When only the finest will do! Call for your tended. personal tour of this fine home ...

Almost four-and-a-half decades after Songs of Leonard Cohen, at age 77, Cohen has produced yet another impeccable, compelling, masterpiece.

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 21

Temple Israel decision ‘was as much about potlucks as property’ I read the January 27 community advisory from the Jewish Federation of Ottawa about Temple Israel deciding not to move to the Jewish Community Campus with both surprise and disappointment. To my mind, the move would have added additional texture and vibrancy to our campus.

The Federation release said “moving to the campus imposed certain limitations, which included leasing, not purchasing, land and thus not having a property to sell in the future should the need arise.” This sounded reasonable enough to me.

But, as I soon learned, there is more to the failed bid than meets the eye. Temple Israel’s decision to pull out was as much about potlucks as property, as much about spiritual values as equity values.

Specifically, Temple Israel’s business plan involves having two kitchens: one under the supervision of the Vaad HaKashrut and another that would be what Temple calls “kosher-style”: no pork products, no shellfish, and no direct mixing of milk and meat.

As I understand it from conversations with Rabbi Steven Garten, the idea was that Temple’s own events – including simchas and the congregation’s monthly potlucks – would be free to use the “kosher-style” kitchen while community events would use the strictly kosher kitchen.

I also spoke with Mitchell Bellman, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Ottawa, who told me he believes the failed bid hinged on the issue of leasing versus owning. But, as he also acknowledged, “There’s no doubt that the position of the Federation and of the Vaad HaKashrut is that there would be only one kitchen in the Temple building: a kosher one.”

Rabbi Garten told me the idea of two kitchens is central to Temple’s vision, including sharing home-cooked food that congregants warm up in the shul kitchen.

“The majority of Jews in this city do not keep kosher,” said

Rabbi Garten. “The Federation has a perspective that keeping the campus kosher is an important statement for them, and we have a perspective that offering people who are participating in the life of the Temple an option. We felt that this was a way of opening the community, rather than keeping it narrowly defined.”

Paul Lyons, co-chair of the Temple Israel Building Renewal and Implementation Committee, echoed this sentiment.

“We would like to provide an institution where people feel comfortable participating, even if they aren’t kosher. They could host a non-kosher wedding or a bar mitzvah, for example,” said Lyons.

“Temple Israel’s vision is that of a big tent where people are free and encouraged to re-affiliate, given that affiliation rates are so low. We want to offer an institution that reflects the plurality of the Ottawa Jewish community,” he added.

While Reform Judaism views many halachic stipulations as not being binding, it is the issue of kashrut that looms large in the historical memory of North American Jewry when it comes to denominational issues.

One cannot think about Reform Judaism and kashrut without reflecting on the infamous Trefa Banquet, an event some historians have identified as paving the way for the founding of the Conservative movement about three decades later.

Held at the Cincinnati Highland House in 1883 to celebrate the first graduating class of Hebrew Union College, the gala honoured various local dignitaries, academics, clergy and professionals. The menu included clams on the half-shell, softshell crabs, shrimp, frogs’ legs and other period delicacies.

Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise, president of Hebrew Union College, denied knowing about the menu in advance. But, given Rabbi Wise’s apparent lack of contrition after the event, historians are still undecided as to whether this was an underhanded attempt by Wise and his supporters to thumb their nose at traditional Judaism.

Values, Ethics, Community Mira Sucharov But much has changed since then. Whereas classical Reform Judaism rejected kashrut completely, contemporary Reform practice encourages serious study of all the mitzvot, including those surrounding dietary practice. The broad range of Reform perspectives surrounding kashrut is encapsulated well in the recent book, The Sacred Table, which encourages a general mindfulness around eating, and which I reviewed last year in the July 18 issue of the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin.

Some may feel that having a uniform kosher standard is the ultimate statement of inclusiveness. But Temple Israel’s leadership feels differently.

“Value statements that are offered in the name of inclusivity are also exclusive,” Rabbi Garten stressed.

“There have been regular meetings of five of the congregational rabbis since the late fall,” to discuss various synagogue and community issues, the rabbi added. “It’s fascinating that, in these meetings, people are really comfortable saying ‘what happens in your shul is what happens in your shul.’ Why couldn’t that have been the outcome on the campus?”

All this makes me return to one of my longstanding questions: What, exactly, are our communal values? As Passover, one of those great stocktaking holidays, approaches, I shall float my vision of how we can arrive at a joint values statement for the Jewish community in Ottawa, a statement that I invite everyone to grapple with, to debate and to rewrite and rework. As the debate over the relocation of Temple Israel to the Jewish Community Campus demonstrates, the time has come.

Mira Sucharov, an associate professor of political science at Carleton University, blogs at Haaretz.com.

Set your goals, achieve your dreams It’s midwinter. Are your new year’s resolutions long forgotten? Don’t give up. Accept minor setbacks, consider them lessons learned, and move on. There’s no better time than today to refocus.

The most common resolutions are to exercise and lose weight. Resolutions are made with good intentions, but they’re typically nothing more than vague, unstructured ideas that are poorly executed.

Goals, on the other hand, are specific and clearly defined, and they provide measurable criteria for success. For example, you can gauge your progress with ‘lose one to two pounds per week for the next 12 weeks.’ When thinking about goals, be realistic. You risk setting yourself up for failure if you expect to change every aspect of your diet or go from being inactive to running a marathon overnight. In time, incremental changes to your lifestyle can have a transformational impact on your health and well-being. You can have a stretch goal too. Maybe it’s something you can only dream of right now. As you achieve and build upon each goal, your stretch goal will become more realistic.

Don’t just think about goals. Document them. In doing so, you are making more of a psychological commitment because you can see exactly what you want to achieve.

By investing some time upfront to plan for your success, you will increase your confidence and feel more engaged.

Identify short-term (three to six months) and long-term (six to 12 months) goals. One of the most rewarding feelings is when you refer back to your goals a few months later and are able to note your progress. I write and adjust my personal goals every few months and I work with clients to

Focus on Fitness Gloria Schwartz help them in setting goals.

As part of the goal-setting process, imagine all of the obstacles that may have previously discouraged you, such as lack of time, lack of resources, lack of motivation or lack of confidence, have been removed. There’ll be time later to devise simple strategies for overcoming obstacles. You can’t control for every factor, but a solid plan and a positive attitude will go a long way. Or, as I say, “If you kvetch, you’ll never stretch.”

Once you’ve set some goals, I encourage you to consider the underlying reason for each one. If your goal pertains to weight loss, ask yourself why you want to lose weight. Is it so you’ll fit into your bathing suit on your vacation? Or is it because you want to improve your health, have more energy and find daily activities easier to perform? We all want to look good, but, when appearance is the primary reason behind our goal, our motivation may not be long lasting. What will happen when you get back from your beach vacation? Will you still be dedicated to your fitness goals then?

Next, you need a plan, a mechanism for converting your thoughts into actions. A well-thought-out action plan is your blueprint for success. You’re thinking things through, making important decisions and deciding what you really want for yourself.

To create an action plan, ask yourself a variety of questions such as: What physical activities will I engage in? Am I willing to try something new or would I prefer familiar activities? Do I want to exercise on my own, with a friend or in a group? Will I work out in a gym or at home? Will I take fitness classes or participate in a sport? Would I benefit from nutritional guidance and exercise instruction? Do I have appropriate workout clothes, sports and safety gear?

The more questions you ask, the better prepared you’ll be. Now that you know what you want to accomplish, list your obstacles and come up with solutions so that nothing stands in the way between you and your goals. If you don’t have all the answers, seek advice from someone whom you feel is a positive fitness role model.

Once your plan is complete, the real work begins. Now you have to implement it.

Stay motivated to work towards your goals by envisioning the fruits of your labour.

“Dream lofty dreams and, as you dream, so you shall become,” wrote James Allen, more than a century ago in his classic inspirational book, As a Man Thinketh. I know that you can become what you dream – one step at a time, one goal at a time.

Send your questions and comments to gloria.schwartz@rogers.com.

Page 22 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

In Shimon Peres’ book on Ben-Gurion, a longing for leadership absent in Israel today Ben-Gurion: A Political Life

By Shimon Peres in conversation with David Landau Schocken/Nextbook Press 240 pages (JTA) – David Ben-Gurion must be spinning in his grave.

The handful of haredi Orthodox Jews to whom he gave indemnity from military service has become a million.

Israeli presidents and cabinet ministers have landed themselves in jail for rape, corruption and nepotism. The Knesset and the Supreme Court are locked in a battle to the death, and the Knesset is winning. We have lost Turkey. And hardly anyone has moved to the Negev. If he were not already dead, BenGurion would resign.

The more I read Ben-Gurion: A Political Life by Israeli President Shimon Peres, the more I liked to play “What Would the Old Man Do Now?” One thing is for certain: If Israel’s first prime minister held the post today, he would cut an incongruous and confused figure amid all the bling and bang of Israel’s current politicians.

Written in conversation with David Landau, a former editor-in-chief of Ha’aretz and former correspondent for JTA, the book is the 19th title in the Jewish Encounter series from Schocken and Nextbook Press.

Let us dispense with the platitudes that Peres is usually showered with and cut straight to the chase. An insightful, exhaustive and dispassionate dissection of Israel’s founding father the book is not. In fact, Peres did not actually write it, Landau did.

Peres’ memories inform much of the book, and he edited its final draft. What is unique is that the book is peppered with Peres’ commentary about Ben-Gurion and his milieu at the time of Israel’s creation. With books like Gershom Gorenberg’s The Unmaking of Israel making the rounds now, it is a timely text.

In that sense also, you are getting two for the price of one: a subjective historical account of Israel’s founder and first prime minister by none other than Israel’s current president, who happened to be at Ben-Gurion’s side during much of his career, and an erudite and personal critique about contemporary Israeli politics from the last remaining figure of the Jewish state’s founding generation.

As a biography written collaboratively by two men with opposite goals, it’s a strange book.

Peres seeks to frame Ben-Gurion as the very pinnacle of leadership and moral clarity, defending Ben-Gurion’s political pragmatism as the most necessary characteristic of the man whose sole purpose was to establish the Jewish state from the ashes of the Holocaust.

Landau, on the other hand, comes from a purely journalistic perspective, and his task, which he pursues vigorously, is to highlight the complexities of Ben-Gurion’s political life – to delve into the gray area, antagonizing the memory of Peres sufficiently to get a fuller account of the “Old Man.” It is in this tension between subjective biographer and critical journalist that the book finds its drama. Perhaps their two

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missions merge at that point in the text where both Landau and Peres portray the current crop of Israeli leaders as not cut from the same cloth as Ben-Gurion. To Peres’ credit, he does not edit out some of the tougher exchanges with Landau.

In a good example, Landau harangues Peres about BenGurion’s single-minded focus on establishing a state instead of lobbying to save the Jews of Europe during the Holocaust.

Peres is certainly uncomfortable with this line of questioning, as he should be. It takes Landau’s constant, obsessive probing to pry the painful truth from Peres: “We didn’t have that kind of clout,” the president finally admits.

The exchange, between an acerbic and brutally honest journalist and a witness, imbues the book with real drama.

Peres wholeheartedly believes that Ben-Gurion made the right decision by focusing on creating the state, but Landau has to get him to explain why. Peres has no real reason to whitewash Ben-Gurion or defend him against accusations of ignoring the plight of Hitler’s Jewish victims. History will judge Ben-Gurion for the decisions he took and the compromises he made. Peres, for his part, is convinced that it was the right decision, as was the difficult decision to accept the UN Partition Plan – “Better a state on part of the land than the whole land and no state.”

Peres was, and, obviously, still is, in awe of Ben-Gurion.

Here is a good example: “Landau: Despite your enormous admiration of him, did you ever find yourself, in private, critical of Ben-Gurion’s policies?”

“Peres: No!” “Landau: That’s almost impossible.”

In his book, Peres tells us a few interesting personal tidbits about Ben-Gurion. The first woman he loved fell in love with another man, and Ben-Gurion kept up a correspondence with

Book Review Amir Mizrich her for years after her marriage and his own marriage to his wife, Paula, even extolling the woman to leave her husband and children and come live with him.

Detailing Ben-Gurion’s single-mindedness with establishing the state, Peres relates that Ben-Gurion left his pregnant wife to go off to war and fight for the British.

Ben-Gurion was such a stickler for clean governance that, as an official of the Yishuv, he refused to expedite or help in any way with his family’s immigration to Israel from Poland.

He refused even though his wife and child were waiting, and his father had supported Ben-Gurion financially during his legal studies in Turkey and during the first lean years in Palestine. That is how much he hated Israel’s culture of protektsia (who you know).

Peres’ primary message in the book seems to be that they just don’t make them like Ben-Gurion anymore. He recalls an exchange between President Kennedy and Ben-Gurion.

“Kennedy: I know that I owe my election to your people.

How can I repay you for your support?”

“Ben-Gurion: You can repay us by being a great president of the United States.”

Peres has repeated this mantra to President Barack Obama.

“Israel, by virtue of her abiding strategic, political, and democratic quintessence, needs the president of the U.S. to be strong and successful,” Peres writes. “It’s poor politics and the most shortsighted strategy to suggest that Israel can somehow benefit from a confrontational or adversarial relationship with the president of the U.S,” a thinly veiled reference to the sometimes testy relationship between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Obama.

With Israel facing challenges on so many fronts, much of them internally, I kept wondering: What would Ben-Gurion do today?

What would he do about rising lawlessness in the West Bank, which, according to the book, he did not believe Israel should keep? What would he do with the increasing tensions between the secular and haredi Orthodox?

Peres implies in the book that Ben-Gurion took pity on the haredim who had survived the Holocaust and made it to Israel by allowing them to establish yeshivas and not serve in the army. Back then, their numbers were negligible. But, by the end of the 1960s, certainly toward the end of his second stint as prime minister, didn’t Ben-Gurion notice their numbers had swelled?

Peres’ book ignores the issue, which recently has risen to the forefront of Israeli public discourse.

In another reference to contemporary Israeli issues, Peres relates a remark Ben-Gurion made to him about why he preferred Lenin over Trotsky.

“You know, Trotsky was no statesman ... because of his concept of no war, no peace. That’s not statesmanship. That’s some sort of Jewish invention,” Peres quotes Ben-Gurion as saying. “A statesman must decide, one way or the other: to go for peace and pay the price, or to make war, knowing what the risks and dangers are.”

It’s almost as if Peres is telescoping Ben-Gurion’s ideas on the country’s biggest contemporary problem: the dangerous lack of decisive leadership.

Careful readers will hear the criticism and urgency permeating almost every page of Ben-Gurion: A Political Life.

As president, Peres has to navigate a careful path as a nonpartisan figurehead trying to keep a fractured nation together.

But, as a commentator in this book, Peres clearly longs to see Ben-Gurion types in the men and women of today’s Knesset.

It’s clear that, for the most part, they’re just not there.

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 23

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Page 24 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

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February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 25

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Page 26 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

Jewish peer pressure to opt out of OPIRG fee February 1 was the National Day of Action for university students across Canada.

Organized by the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS), the day is an annual event when, through concurrent rallies, students lobby for lower tuition fees.

I know there are large numbers of students who don’t support the CFS and peg the day of action as futile. This year’s Ottawa protest was on Parliament Hill despite the federal government’s lack of jurisdiction in education. It also took place at a time when the Ontario government had just introduced a new 30 per cent-off tuition grant.

Those same students have questioned whether the cause to save students’ money should cost students all the money spent on advertisements, a free breakfast for campaigners and free bus service to the rally.

While those points are fair, I think most people would agree that the cause, lowering tuition fees to make education more accessible to everyone, is a good one, and raising awareness for it can’t hurt.

The Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG) agrees with me. On its Facebook event wall, OPIRG said its participation in the Day of Action was “in solidarity with the struggle by students everywhere for education.”

But, just last month, I was encouraged, pressured even, to opt out of paying the $6.47 pro-rated fee OPIRG gets from all full-time Carleton students. I felt this pressure because I’m Jewish, and some of my Jewish counterparts encouraged me to opt out because “it’s the Jewish thing to do.”

Why? Because one of the working groups supported by OPIRGCarleton is Students Against Israeli Apartheid (SAIA), while at the University of Ottawa, OPIRG supports Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights.

OPIRG has been called radical. I’m not going to deny I feel that way about some of its working groups. If you want to opt out, I think you have every right to do so. Students

make use of that right every year – it’s as simple as following the required procedure.

But there are some OPIRG working groups at Carleton with mission statements I support. There are some groups that bring in speakers and hold events that I feel benefit our campus environment. I think anything that isn’t hate speech generally enhances a campus through open discourse.

Some of these groups at Carleton include: Cinema Politica, which aims to inspire activism by raising awareness about issues through documentaries; Books 2 Prisoners and Students for Fair Trade, whose causes are self-explanatory; and inSol: Womyn of Colour Collective, which describes itself as a “united front of multi-ethnic women.”

A post on the “Opt-Out of OPIRG Carleton” Facebook event page also got me thinking. A Carleton student and member of the GLBT community proclaimed how much OPIRG services benefited him/her (the student is non-gender identifying).

“I don’t know why anyone would want to take away from the only things I have at this school,” the student wrote.

So, do I mind if $6.47 of my student fees is distributed amongst those groups, including SAIA? Not really.

I may have a few concerns with how SAIA operates, but, as I’ve written in this column before, I don’t feel threatened by its presence. Instead of trying to take it down, I’d rather have the Israel Awareness Committee up its ante, something I feel it has done effectively over the past few years.

There’s no sense in shutting down voices that help some people, if they’re really not doing serious harm to anyone.

So I didn’t opt-out of OPIRG. Maybe I forgot. Maybe I didn’t have time to wait in line for a $6 cheque. I suppose if I were passionate enough about it, I would’ve done it.

Perhaps OPIRG, controversial as it is, shouldn’t automatically be built into our student fees in the first place. But the Carleton University Students’ Association – whose funding

Campus Life Ilana Belfer is also pro-rated from student fees – funds religious groups and other groups that have raised controversy like Carleton Lifeline and the Firearms Association of Carleton University. University-based groups have a right to exist and access funding – groups including Hillel Ottawa and the Israel Awareness Committee (IAC).

Again, if you want to opt-out of the OPIRG fee, I wholeheartedly think you should. And that’s fine. It’s a personal choice. That being said, numerous posts on the Facebook pages of Jewish student groups by Jewish student leaders encouraging Jewish students to opt out can make a girl feel uncomfortable if she decides not to do it.

If I want to support sending books to prisoners or increase free-trade products on campus, that should be OK. If a student wants to support SAIA without directly damaging or sabotaging efforts by the Jewish community (this is where I feel it crosses the line), and still maintain his or her Jewish identity, that should be OK too.

Politics and religion may sometimes cross paths. I know of more than one philosopher who’d tell you everything is political. But Judaism and politics are simply are not synonymous. Jews have different political views and that’s OK, because that isn’t where the bond we share is based.

The way students express ourselves politically, on campus or off, shouldn’t determine how comfortable we feel in our community.

Chatting with Jurgen, Jack and Linda It’s been a busy week. First, Jurgen, who loves politics, called me.

“So, Newt Gingrich is the current ‘anti-Romney.’ It almost sounds like the anti-Christ, the beast, has risen from the troubled sea to disturb the peace of the establishment.”

“How do you expect a good Jewish boy like me to understand a reference to the Book of Revelation?”

“Go on. We saw The Omen together and it was all explained there. Anyhow, the main point is that I got the literature from Gingrich and now he is excoriating Romney because he is too liberal and moderate. That’s when I laughed because I had never heard those adjectives used pejoratively.

“Neither have I.” “Get used to it. Now Romney will have to prove he is only a little moderate but mostly he is extreme and then, if he gets the nomination, he’ll have to turn around and say he meant he was mostly moderate and only a little extreme.”

“Hey that’s Obama’s line.”

“I thought it was the line of every leader in Canada.”

“What did you think of the Liberal Convention?”

“I thought it showed that the Liberals are still the Liber-

Please support our advertisers and tell them you saw their ad in the Ottawa Jewish Bulletin.

Humour me, please Rubin Friedman als. You would have loved Bob Rae’s description of the party. It sounded like he was quoting God in Exodus 3:14.”

“How?” “When Moses asks who he should say sent him, God says, ‘I am who I am.’ When Bob Rae described his party he said, ‘We are who we are.’ Rae is trying to take on the role of Moses by telling us, ‘I speak on behalf of We are who we are.’”

“But will he able to lead the people out of the wilderness?”

“For his sake, I hope it doesn’t take 40 years!”

Then I had one of those chats with Jack.

“Of course, Angela Jolie looked good on the red carpet.

That goes without saying,” I said.

“What do you mean it goes without saying? If it goes without saying, why did you say it?”

“Don’t tell me you’re starting again. It’s just an expression.”

“Do you write articles?”

“Yes.” “Do you ever write, ‘that goes without writing’”?

“No, but…”

“I rest my case.”

Linda was the last to call. She works in the public service.

“They asked me to work in a unit before they knew exactly what their mandate was because it was new and they were developing it. I liked the manager so I went.”

“Sounds good.”

“Yeah, but then they decided to review everybody’s mandate to look for cuts, so we weren’t allowed to do anything.”

“What did you do?”

“Went to other units and asked what they needed help with. I was the busiest one there! Oh, and then they moved my manager and put in someone temporarily.”

“Well, at least you kept busy.”

“You better believe it. The temporary guy wanted to prove he knew what he was doing and told us we would invent our mandate.”

“How long did that last?”

“About 15 minutes? Hah! Actually a little longer, but then they merged us with a larger corporate unit and we had to wait to find out what the new mandate was.”

“And now?”

“Now I have to go around doing reports on our operations, except the operational people know what they are doing better than I do.”

“Don’t be discouraged. The operational people have no time, so you are doing it for them. You are the buffer between them and the higher ups.”

“Now I understand. My job is to make sure I don’t get squished!”

February 20, 2012 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – Page 27

‘Mornings just got a whole lot better around here!’

When it comes to breakfast, I am a creature of habit. I tend to eat the same breakfast every morning for several years in a row, until I start to feel bored.

First, it was Cheerios and bananas. Sometimes, I would get a little wild and crazy and have multi-grain Cheerios instead of the original.

Then, I switched to Rideau Bakery rye bread, toasted with salted whipped butter and sour cherry jam.

Next, it was Quaker Oats Squares, with blueberries in the summer and bananas in the winter.

From there, I moved onto oatmeal, sweetened with a hint of maple syrup.

And then, everything changed when fat-free plain Greek yogurt became widely available at my local supermarket last year. I mixed the yogurt with some berries and then crumbled a Dad’s oatmeal cookie on top. The crunch and sweetness of the cookie was a wonderful complement to the creamy, tangy yogurt. A new breakfast routine was born.

Last fall, I was on holiday in Italy and there were no Dad’s oatmeal cookies to crumble on my yogurt. But there was a little bowl of granola on the buffet, next to the yogurt and berries, so I sprinkled some on top of my berries.

To be honest, I have never really been a granola person.

I’ve always associated granola with those Birkenstockwearing, yoga-doing people. Oh, wait a minute, I’ve been practising yoga for 12 years and I do wear Birkenstocks (with socks in the winter, don’t judge)!

So, when I sprinkled some of this Italian granola on top of my breakfast, I was shocked at how good it was. This granola had big clumps and was chock full of almonds, seeds, oats, raisins and coconut.

When I tried to get the recipe, I discovered it was not homemade, but was Kellogg’s Fruit and Nut Granola. I was unable to find it at home and have been dreaming about it ever since. I frequently save different granola recipes to try out, but then, when I look at them again, they just don’t appeal to me.

But then I came upon a granola recipe in a new cookbook I am currently crushing on. Called Cook This Now, it’s written by New York Times food writer Melissa Clark.

To be honest, she had me hooked when I read the recipe

title: Double Coconut Granola! My girlfriend Sandy says coconut is one of those polarizing ingredients. People either love it or hate it. I happen to love it. Without a doubt, Joanne Yolles’ coconut cream pie from Scaramouche restaurant in Toronto would be my last meal request.

The first coconut in this granola recipe comes from what Melissa calls “Coconut Chips.” Essentially, these are just large flakes of unsweetened dried coconut. Shredded won’t be the same. You need to seek out the large flakes. I found them at Rainbow Foods.

The second form of coconut is coconut oil. Melissa calls for virgin coconut oil. When I went shopping, I just picked the first coconut oil off the shelf, which was organic expeller pressed coconut oil. Upon doing a little bit of research, I learned that expeller pressed coconut oil is less expensive than virgin coconut oil and, because it goes through a steam deodorizing process, the taste is very bland, unlike virgin coconut oil, which retains the odor and taste of fresh coconuts. If you don’t want the coconut flavour to be overwhelming, go for the expeller pressed.

I used the expeller pressed, but I went back to Rainbow Foods and bought a jar of virgin coconut oil. The coconut smell is intense. I have not made a second batch yet, but I am anticipating coconut heaven.

I was really shocked (and thrilled) to learn some of the health benefits of coconut oil, not the least of which is that it aids in weight loss. Apparently, it contains short- and medium-chain fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. Not that I really understand what short- and medium-chain fatty acids are, but I am happy to be delusional in thinking that eating large handfuls of this granola will help me lose weight! Coconut oil also contains lauric acid, which is a key ingredient in breast milk. Now really, could you get any healthier than mother’s milk?

The coconut oil is solid and must be melted before using. To be honest, it looks more like a cream to rub all over the body for moisturizing. As I was opening the jar, some of the coconut oil got on my hand. I just rubbed it in and put the jar away in the cupboard. About an hour later, I noticed that my skin was incredibly soft and smooth, where I had rubbed the oil!

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Made with Love Cindy Feingold This granola is like a party in your mouth! It has the perfect balance of flavours and textures, slightly salty with great crunch from the almonds and pumpkin seeds, some chewiness from the dried cherries and coconut, and a hint of maple and cinnamon. This granola makes me very happy! Mornings just got a whole lot better around here!

Double Coconut Granola This recipe is New York Times food columnist Melissa Clark’s genius creation. It comes from her book, Cook This Now. Makes about 7 cups 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats 1 1/2 cups raw pecans or almonds, coarsely chopped 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, hulled 1 cup coconut chips 1/2 cup pure maple syrup 1/2 cup virgin coconut oil, melted 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 3/4 cup dried cherries Preheat the oven to 300 F. In a large bowl, combine the oats, pecans, pumpkin seeds, coconut chips, maple syrup, coconut oil, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Spread the mixture on a rimmed baking sheet in an even layer and bake until golden all over, about 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.

Transfer the granola to a large bowl and add the cherries, tossing to combine

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Page 28 – Ottawa Jewish Bulletin – February 20, 2012

WHAT’S GOING ON February 20 to March 4, 2012 WEEKLY EVENTS MONDAYS Motorin Munchkins for children 5 and under, sponsored by the Family Life Centre.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, 9:00 am to noon.

Info: 613-798-9818, ext.294.

CANDLELIGHTING BEFORE Feb 24

✡

5:21 pm

Mar 2

✡

5:31 pm

Mar 9

✡

5:41 pm

Mar 16

✡

6:50 pm

Mar 23

✡

6:59 pm

Mar 30

✡

7:08 pm

Apr 6

✡

7:17 pm

TUESDAYS Mommy and Me Playgroup for babies and toddlers up to 3 years of age, Rambam Day School, 31 Nadolny Sachs Private, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Info: 613-806-7700.

Israeli Folk Dancing, no partner necessary, Ottawa Jewish Community School, 31 Nadolny Sachs Private, 7:00 pm. Info: judy@ottawaisraelidance.ca.

WEDNESDAYS Playgroup for babies and toddlers, sponsored by the Family Life Centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult, 9:00 to 11:30 am. Info:

613-798-9818, ext 294.

FRIDAYS Shabbat Shalom for children 5 and under, sponsored by the Family Life Centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult, 9:30 to 11:00 am. Info: 613-798-9818, ext. 294.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 21 A Taste of Yiddish exhibit

by Die Folkshpieler, the SJCC Yiddish players, at Heritage Canada Day, Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Info: 613-7989818, ext. 254.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 22 Boomers and Beyond Luncheon & Lecture, sponsored by Jewish Family Services Seniors Support Services and Beit Tikvah Synagogue.

“Heart Health and Heart Wise

For more community listings, visit ottawa.jewishottawa.com Select Calendar/Upcoming Events and Click to See More

Exercise” with Daniel Crete of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, 15 Chartwell Avenue, 12:00 pm. Info: 613-723-1800.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 26 Musaica Ebraica presents “Miboker ad Erev” (From Morning till Evening – Songs of Israel), Temple Israel, 1301 Prince of Wales Drive, 2:00 pm.

Info: 613-233-3099.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 28 SUCCESS: An Evening with Senator Pamela Wallin, sponsored by jnet Ottawa, aimed at young Jewish adults.

Networking reception to follow, Congregation Beth Shalom, 151 Chapel Street, 7:30 pm.

Info: 613-798-4696, ext. 270.

SATURDAY MARCH 3 Magillah, the Montreal

klezmer band featuring accordionist Henri Oppenheim and singer Michelle Heisler, celebrates the spirit of Purim with a

concert of Jewish music in Yiddish and Hebrew. Sponsored by the SJCC, 8:00 pm. Info: 613-798-9818, ext. 254.

COMING SOON SUNDAY MARCH 25 A Touch of Klez and Musaica Ebraica perform at Machzikei Hadas Congregation, 2310 Virginia Drive, 7:00 pm.

Info: 613-234-1649.

SUNDAY APRIL 1 7th Annual Shalom Bayit Women’s Seder, sponsored by Jewish Family Services, Agudath Israel Congregation, 1400 Coldrey Avenue, 5:00 pm.

Info: 613-722-2225, ext. 406.

Unless otherwise noted, activities take place at The Joseph and Rose Ages Family Building, 21 Nadolny Sachs Private.

This information is taken from the community calendar maintained by the Jewish Ottawa InfoCentre. Organizations which would like their events to be listed, no matter where they are to be held, should send the information to InfoCentre coordinator Benita Siemiatycki via e-mail at bsiemiatycki@jewishottawa.com or fax at 613-798-4695. She can also be reached by telephone at 613-798-4644. Accurate details must be provided and all events must be open to the Jewish public.

Condolences Condolences are extended to the families of: Rhoda Abbey Jack Baylin Kurt Brewer Anita Dubinsky Sylvia Feder, Montreal/Los Angeles (mother of Dr. Stephen Feder)

Guenter Krebs, Montreal (father of Howard Krebs) Beatrice Lesser Eliezer Lipnowski, Montreal (father of David, Sara and Gerald Lipnowski)

May their memory be a blessing always.

The CONDOLENCE COLUMN is offered as a public service to the community.

There is no charge.

For a listing in this column, please call 613-798-4696, ext. 274.

Voice mail is available.

BULLETIN DEADLINES FEBRUARY 29 FOR MARCH 19 MARCH 14 FOR APRIL 2 APRIL 4 FOR APRIL 23

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