Document

Please join us to celebrate Chanukah ... page 4

in this issueDaily/Shabbat Worship … 2, In Perspective … 3, Chanukah 2005/5766 … 4, The Gerald Schwartz/Heather

Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning … 5, Education Matters … 8, Youth Groups … 9, Family Programming … 9,

150th Anniversary … 10, Generation t … 10, Seniors’ Programming … 11, Images of Fall … 12, Events and

Announcements … 14, Our Congregational Family … 15, High Holy Days Thank You … 18, This Month @ Holy

Blossom … 19, The Last Word … 20

Vol. LXXXI No. 4 • December 2005 • Cheshvan/Kislev 5766

Holy Blossom Tem ple

Holy Blossom Temple 2

Daily/Shabbat WorshipD

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Please remember to visit our Web site, at www.holyblossom.org, to read our weekly D’var Torah. (Just click on D’var Torah under the Avodah/Worship menu button.) You can also subscribe to our e-mail service and receive the D’var Torah weekly by e-mail. (Just click on Subscribe to Email at the top of our home page.)

B eginning Fri. Jan. 6, 2006, we will gather at 5.30 p.m. in the Max E. Enkin Board Room to prepare for Shabbat — with some song, a bit of study and a nosh. Come straight from school or work, and bring the entire family, from kids to

grandparents. Then join us for our Kabbalat Shabbat Services at 6 p.m.

Daily ServicesMon. to Fri. 7.30 a.m. Shacharit* 6 p.m. Ma’arivSun. 9 a.m.

*On Mon. Dec. 26 and Tue. Dec. 27, 2005, and Mon. Jan. 2, 2006, Shacharit Services will be held at 9 a.m.

Shabbat ToledotFri. Dec. 2 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceFri. Dec. 2 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat and DinnerSat. Dec. 3 10.30 a.m. Shabbat Service (Rabbi Steven Saltzman, of Adath Israel Congregation, will be our guest preacher; please see page 3 for details.)Sat. Dec. 3 10.30 a.m. Family Shabbat Service

Shabbat VayetzeFri. Dec. 9 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceSat. Dec. 10 10.30 a.m. Shabbat Service (Joel Hoffman will be our guest preacher; please see page 6 for details.)Sat. Dec. 10 10.30 a.m. Family Shabbat Service

Shabbat VayishlachFri. Dec. 16 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceFri. Dec. 16 6 p.m. Tot ShabbatSat. Dec. 17 10.30 a.m. Congregation-wide Shabbat Service

Shabbat VayeshevFri. Dec. 23 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceSat. Dec. 24 10.30 a.m. Congregation-wide Shabbat Service

Shabbat MiketzFri. Dec. 30 5.30 p.m. Congregational Chanukah Celebration (Please see page 4 for details.)Fri. Dec. 30 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceSat. Dec. 31 10.30 a.m. Congregation-wide Shabbat Service

Shabbat VayigashFri. Jan. 6 6 p.m. Kabbalat Shabbat ServiceFri. Jan. 6 6 p.m. Tot Shabbat and DinnerSat. Jan. 7 10.30 a.m. Congregation-wide Shabbat Service

Pre-Shabbes nosh

December 2005 3 Cheshvan/Kislev 5766

and what it felt like to open them up, to put my eyes on words that represented the truths of the world I wished to make my own one day.

I spent hours and hours on a comfort-able couch underneath the bookshelves — reading my own books, periodically pe-rusing the books of the adult world above me, and imagining my life as it might unfold. I was enormously satisfi ed and comfortable there — and have remained deeply satisfi ed by reading wherever I would fi nd myself ever since.

I learned then and know even better now that reading is deeply engaging and a way to travel the world that is otherwise impossible.

The reading of good books provokes imagination, aspiration and empathy. In particular, the reading of literature and

I learned then and know even

better now that reading is deeply

engaging and a way to travel

the world that is otherwise

impossible. The reading of good

books provokes imagination,

aspiration and empathy.

In Perspectiveby Rabbi John Moscowitz

Reading in shul

When, as often hap-pens, I encourage children to bring books to shul — and to read their books if they are so inclined

instead of the prayers, I see quizzical parental eyes. So let me explain why I encourage our children (and even those older as long as they act respectfully) to read during Services.

Remembering my parents’ libraryAs with virtually everything, autobiog-raphy counts. I still vividly remember my parents’ library — the long rows of wooden shelves amidst the art, the couches and the light fl owing into our living room in St. Louis.

I still remember which books were placed where, these books of history, of biography, many novels, books on Israel, art and other matters, all of them stately and impressive, and (as far as my memo-ry takes me), all in hardcover.

I remember the smell of these books

history deepens us and provides an unpar-alleled background to life. And thus, my strong advice for those in Grades 11 and 12 as they think about university: that they spend virtually their entire undergraduate careers in English Literature and History — letting the rest, a career path and practi-cal matters, come out of this learning and the world it opens up to them.

So I admit to seeing myself in our children who read their books here in shul. Hence when any child is not quite ready for whatever reason for the rigour of prayer, or simply wishes to read during Services — I say: “Bring your books, bring your good minds and feel comfortable here in shul with the books that engage and teach you.”

Acquiring a love of readingMy hope is the obvious one: that what happened to me in the midst of my par-ents’ books — the acquisition of a love of reading and a lifetime of satisfaction in books — will happen with our children here in shul.

I know for certain that the association between reading and shul will rebound posi-tively; that our children will grow up, not only to be good readers, but also comfort-able in the world of shul, prayer and God.

Pulpit exchange: What I Believe and Why

Last month, Rabbi John Moscowitz was the guest preacher at Adath Israel Congregation and spoke about his personal theology. On Shabbat morning, Dec. 3, Rabbi Steven Saltzman, of Adath Israel Congregation, will address the same topic at Holy Blossom Temple. After the Service, all are invited to enjoy lunch with Rabbis Moscowitz and Saltzman. Pre-registration required. Please call Tania Blumenthal (ext. 246), at the Temple, or e-mail [email protected], for more details and cost.

Rabbi Steven Saltzman Sat. Dec. 3, 2005, at 10.30 a.m.


WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO SAY Happy Chanukah?

ive a gift that lasts F O R E V E R.Along with chocolate Chanukah gelt, give your child or grandchild a gift that will stand the test of time. By making a donation to the Holy Blossom Temple Foundation, you not only honour your family, you help ensure the future of our Temple, from generation to generation.

GFor more information, please call the Foundation offi ce (ext. 270), at the Temple.

FRI. DEC. 30, 2005

Singing and Study 5.30 p.m.Kabbalat Shabbat 6 p.m.Oneg Shabbat 7 p.m. (immediately following Services)

Chanukah and Shabbat each make the other that much sweeter, so join us as we celebrate the Festival of Lights and welcome in Shabbat together as a community. We will begin with a half hour of noshing (latkes!), singing and light study with Cantor Lindi Rivers and Rabbi Jason Rosenberg, then continue on with our regular Kabbalat Shabbat Service. After the Service, everyone is welcome to stay for a bite to eat and some more shmoozing at our special Chanukah Oneg Shabbat, complete with sufganiyot, chanukiyah, gelt and more.Join us for a Chanukah and Shabbat for all ages.

We would like to extend a special invitation to all our new members and their families to join us as we celebrate Chanukah and welcome Shabbat on Fri. Dec. 30, 2005. Watch the Bulletin for details of a special event, to welcome new members, in January or February.


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Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning at Holy Blossom TempleOur Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning provides opportunities to come together for major public lectures, to study Torah and other literature, and to obtain the skills needed to lead a deeper Jewish life. For a complete list and details on of all lectures and classes, please refer to the 2005/2006 Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Centre for Jewish Learning Calendar, call the school offi ce (ext. 256), at the Temple, or visit our Web site at www.holyblossom.org. All programs and lectures are open to the community, unless otherwise stated. Please remember to bring your Advance Seating Card to all major lectures. For your convenience, our daytime programs during the week are marked with this symbol:

Ongoing Learning

Shabbat Morning Torah Study: Genesis — When the World Was YoungRabbi John MoscowitzSaturdays at 9 a.m.

Learning Liturgy through Singing Jewish Music — Temple Singers Sundays at 10 a.m.For more details, please call Mari Lynn Rusak (ext. 224), at the Temple.

The Gerald Schwartz/Heather Reisman Fall 2005 Lecture Series at Holy Blossom Temple

Democratization: Is It For Real?

The Power of Democracy in (Secret) Action

Tue. Dec. 6, 2005, at 8 p.m.

Introduction: Nelofer PaziraFilm maker and star of the documentary “Kandahar” This is the last lecture in the series.

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Intermediate Hebrew*Dalia Alalouf, Hebrew SupervisorMondays at 7 p.m.

Advanced Hebrew GrammarRabbi Edward Goldfarb

Tuesdays at 11 a.m.Open to members only.

Sisterhood Torah Study: Second Book of KingsRabbi Edward Goldfarb

Wednesdays at 9.30 a.m.

The Yiddish NovelRabbi Edward Goldfarb

Wednesdays at 11 a.m. This course is open to the community, non-members will be charged a fee of $60.

Beginners Hebrew:Introduction to the Aleph Bet*Sara Kernerman, TeacherWednesdays at 6.30 p.m.

* These courses are limited to Temple members. Registration required.

Jews in Literature

Exploring the Jewish Character in LiteratureCynthia Good, Director, Creative Book Publishing Program, Humber College

Tuesdays 9.30 a.m. Continuing to Dec. 13Registration required.

Book Talk

Searching for Justice: an AutobiographyThe Honourable Fred Kaufman, Retired Judge, Quebec Court of AppealThur. Dec. 1, at 8 p.m.The Honourable Fred Kaufman has been a distinguished fi gure in Canadian law for half a century. Searching for Justice is his remarkable story, told in his own words.


Holy Blossom at the ROM

Great Moments in Jewish HistoryGeri Durbin, Royal Ontario Museum EducatorSun. Dec. 4, at 1 p.m.Limited to 30 people. Suitable for adults and children in Grades 5 and over. Pre-registration required. Cost: $30.

Infl uential Thinkers

God in Search of Man: The Thought of Rabbi Abraham Joshua HeschelRabbi Jason RosenbergWed. Dec. 7, at 7.30 p.m.

Multifaith Dialogues/Learning

What Every Jew Should Knowabout Islam Atif Khalil, Toronto Centre for the Study of Religion, Specializing in Medieval Islamic Philosophy and MysticismWednesdays at 7.30 p.m.Dec. 7 and 14

Brotherhood Breakfast Club

Little-Known Facts about Holy Blossom’s Past and PresentDavid Hart, Temple ArchivistSun. Dec. 11, at 9.30 a.m.Join us, following the Shacharit Service, for our famous breakfast at 9.30 a.m. and David’s presentation at 10 a.m. All Temple members (men and women) are welcome.

Jewish Parenting

The Blessing of a Skinned Knee and Parenting the Jewish WayRabbi Jason Rosenberg and Beth Goldstein, PsychotherapistWednesdays at 7.30 p.m.Jan. 11 to Feb. 15, 2005This course — based on Wendy Mo-gel’s book, The Blessing of a Skinned Knee — will focus on building strong

Scholar-in-Residence Weekend

Black Fire on White FireJoel HoffmanA Ph.D. in Theoretical Linguistics, Joel Hoffman is the author of In the Beginning: A Short History of the Hebrew Language.

Fri. Dec. 9 to Sun. Dec. 11Learn the incredible power of Hebrew letters, words and their ancient meanings.

Fri. Dec. 9, at 6 p.m.Kabbalat Shabbat Service, Dinner and Study3,000 Years of Jewish Continuity as Seen Through 3,000 Years of HebrewWhy can almost every written alphabet today trace its roots to ancient Hebrew? How was Hebrew reborn after a 2,000-year hiatus? Pre-registration required. Cost: $20 for adults and $10 for students.

Sat. Dec. 10 9 a.m.Shabbat Morning Torah StudyLearn the fascinating techniques used to uncover the ancient Hebrew meanings.

10.30 a.m.Shabbat Morning Sermon: Angels and Ladders

12.30 p.m.Lunch and Learn: How to Read Jewish TextsLearn how Jews have taken texts, and then commentaries on texts, and made them their own. Pre-registration required. Cost: $15.

Sun. Dec. 11, at 10.15 a.m.The How and Why of Hebrew GrammarWe will discuss the vowels that grace Hebrew words, uncovering the inner beauty of Hebrew.

For more details or to register, please call ext. 256, at the Temple.

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family relationships the Jewish way and building spirituality and talking to chil-dren about God. Couples are urged to come together. Co-sponsored by the Family Programming Committee. Cost: $50 for Temple members; $75 for non-members.

Library Lecture

Kafka: A Life in Trial Ralph Wintrob, Teacher and LibrarianTue. Jan. 24, at 7.30 p.m. For more details, please call Anne Dublin (ext. 235), at the Temple. Co-sponsored by Brotherhood.

A Foundation to Jewish Learning

Family Life EducationThursdays at 10.30 a.m. Feb. 2 to Mar. 9Learn how to create a Jewish home life that refl ects Jewish wisdom and richness of the Jewish calendar. This course may be taken as a series or as individual sessions.Feb. 2 — Rabbi Yael Splansky How Does the Jewish Library Stack Up Sample sacred texts for an introduction that will leave you wanting more.Feb. 9 — Rabbi Yael Splansky The Family Who Prays Together See how the siddur comes to life as a manual of core Jewish values and ideals.Feb. 16 — Deborah K. Spiegel Shabbat at Home: More than Chicken SoupMake Shabbat a reality for your family.Feb. 23 — Deborah K. SpiegelHome for the Holidays Create memories by bringing the holidays to life.Mar 2 — Rabbi Jason Rosenberg Kashrut: Is it Signifi cant for a Reform JewDiscover what these ancient customs can do to elevate your Jewish home and ennoble those who live there.Mar. 9 — Rabbi Jason RosenbergWhat Happens after We Die Find out what our tradition has to say about the mysteries of life after death.

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Feb. 15 Self-DefenceA general conversation about war and confl ict.

Feb. 22 Intervention DefenceWe will add to the discussion a person who needs defence from an attacker.

Mar. 1 Communal DefenceWhat happens when a community is endangered? When and how is it permitted to defend the community under attack?

Mar. 8 WarfareCategories of war help us differentiate international confl icts.

Mar. 15 Anticipatory WarfareOne challenging aspect of modern war is who started the aggression. We analyze a recent responsa by the Reform Movement.

Mar. 22 Extraordinary WarfareContemporary war includes terrorism, torture and collective forms of punishment. We look at ancient and modern sources to see the diffi culties of formulating halachot that address con-fl ict mediation.

Rabbi Jonathan CranePh.D. Candidate in the Study of Religion, Specializing in Jewish Ethics, University of Toronto

Wednesdays at 7.30 p.m.Feb. 15 to Mar. 22This course examines complex and practical issues related to contemporary warfare. We will follow the textual arguments to learn how halachah and ethical sensibilities infl uence each other.

Dimensions of Violence: Judaism on Self-Defence, War and Terrorism


Left to right: (front row) Rabbi Jason Rosenberg, Michaela Freedman, Donna Robins ,teacher, Jakov Musafi ja, Amanda Kert, Lauren Segal, Jesse Sennet, Nathan Micay and Bebe Jacobs, Director of Education; (second row) Jessica Hart, Natalie Simonsky, Rebbecca Stein, Rebecca Perlmutter, Erika Firestone, Zoe Jordan, Joshua Richman Gould, Miriam Heavenrich, Michaela Collins, Jacob Sommers and Elliott Berenstein; (back row) Emma Leese, Caroline Kassie, Adam Brown, Stacy Greenbaum, Amy Berkowitz, Robbie Denaburg, Sophie Roher and Kevin Weiner. Missing from the photo is Brandon Samuel.

It has been a joy to be a part of Holy Blossom Temple these past few months, and I look forward to activities, newsletters, holiday

celebrations and all the fabulous times that we have planned ahead. If you have a ques-tion or comment about the schools, please contact me (ext. 239), at the Temple. I look forward to hearing from you — often!

I am thrilled to be able to share with you the fi rst in a series of articles that focus on teachers, supervisors and ‘signifi -cant others’ in the Holy Blossom schools. These are the people who have been work-ing with your children for many years, often unheralded for their day-in and day-out devotion to our children.

Donna RobinsDonna is a third-generation member of Holy Blossom Temple. She remembers fondly her

Education Mattersby Deborah K. Spiegel, Interim Director of Education

Focus on our school leaderstime as a child in our school and is proud that she went through to Confi rmation.

It was not until her son went to Camp OSRUI (Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute)

that life changed in the Robins’ household. He came back from camp enthusiastic, and Donna thought, “If he can have so much fun in a Jewish environment, why not me?” That was more than 25 years ago.

Donna began her working career at Holy Blossom as part of the Soviet Jewry

Committee. But it was not until she taught a Grade 2 class that she was hooked. Donna fi nally became a ‘lifer.’ She “joined the love of kids and the love of Judaism.”

This past summer, Donna received the Grinspoon-Steinhardt Award for Excellence in Jewish Education for her distinction in Jewish education and the signifi cant impact she has made on her students and in the community. Donna is the fi rst religious school Jewish educator to be given this award and one of fi ve recipients from across Canada. It is quite an achievement, and Donna is using the proceeds of the prize to further her educa-tion by taking a course offered through JESNA (Jewish Education Service of North America) and the UJA Federation’s Bureau of Jewish Education. Yasher koach.

Mark your calendarPlease mark your calendar for these important dates:Term ends: Sun. Dec. 21, 2005New term begins: Mon. Jan. 9, 2006Watch for Bible People Morning on Sun. Feb. 5, 2006.

Donna Robins

Our Grade 10 students spent Thanksgiving weekend learning about the immigrant experience in New York. Trip highlights included a talk at the United Nations (UN) from a representative to the UN’s Israel mission, a visit to Ellis Island, a tour of the restoration program for the Eldridge Street Synagogue in the Lower East side and a viewing of the show Fiddler on the Roof.

A Confi rmation experience in New York City

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Creative fun for tweens and teens

YEAH! — If you are in Grades 4, 5 or 6, and like to have fun with your friends, then we want you to join YEAH! (Youth

Elementary Activities at Holy Blossom). Programs are held once each month on Sundays for Holy Blossom and Leo Baeck students. The fi rst two events of the year, a Bowlerama pizza party and Laser Tag, were an enormous success, thanks to everyone who came out.

Please save Dec. 11, 2005, at 12.30 p.m., when we will be making Chanukah gifts on the Messy Hands bus, and cooking (and eating) our own creative latkas!

Forms will be sent home with Religious School and Leo Baeck students for each event, and you can also pick them up from the Religious School offi ce. To con-tact the YEAH! Advisor, please call Mira Lyon (ext. 512), at the Temple, or e-mail [email protected]. Hope to see you soon.

HABSTY — HABSTY’s (Holy Awesome Blossom Senior Temple Youth) recent open-ing program was a great success: from ice breaker games, to playing beach volleyball on warm sand, to eating pizza and cake, what more could you ask for? And it did not stop

there; we even had time to learn about the importance of tzedakah. Thank you to all of you who came out.

If you are in high school and ready to go out with your friends and have a great time, then you belong with us in HABSTY. There are going to be many more programs like this coming up, so watch for our posters and mailings, and listen for our phone calls because we have only just begun. If you want to be a part of HABSTY, or if you have some programs that you would like to see happen, please feel free to e-mail me at [email protected] or post a message to the HABSTY executive at [email protected]. We look for-ward to seeing you all at the next event.

Family Programming 2005

Tot Shabbat ServicesTot Shabbat teaches kids the joy of Shabbat through music, prayer, stories, crafts and more. For details or to RSVP for the dinners, please call Olivia D’Souza (ext. 260), at the Temple.

Fridays at 6 p.m.Dec. 2 Service and DinnerDec. 16 ServiceJan. 6 Service and Dinner

Judy and David’s

Annual Chanukah ShowSun. Dec. 18, at 1.30 p.m.Every year, Holy Blossom Temple shows up in force to support our own Judy and David Gershon at their one-of-a-kind, annual Chanukah concert. This year prom-ises another fantastic show. Holy Blossom members who sign up through Family Programming get a discounted rate, plus we all get to sit together. To reserve a ticket, please call the Family Program-ming hotline (ext. 518), at the Temple. Cost: $18.

Cooking for Chanukah

at LoblawsSun. Dec. 11, at 2.30 p.m. Last year’s trip to “Upstairs at Loblaws” for Sukkot was such a success that we are doing it again — this time for Chanukah! Our friends at Loblaws will have some special items ready for us to create as we get ready for the Festival of Lights. Registration is required, and space is limited, so RSVP to the Family Programming hotline (ext. 518), at the Temple. Cost: $18.

Youth Groupsby Alana Vertlieb, Youth Director

Holy Blossom Junior ChoirStudents in Grades 3 to 6 are encouraged to come and sing with Cantor Lindi Rivers and be a part of some-thing fun! No experience required; just a love of singing. Rehearsals will be on Sundays at 12.15 p.m., for one hour. Join us on Dec. 4, 11 and 18, 2005, and then we will begin again on Jan. 8, 2006.

Our fi rst performance will be at the Temple’s Chanukah Celebration on Fri. Dec. 30, 2005, at 5.30 p.m. For more details, please call Lindi Rivers (ext. 252), at the Temple.


MartinisMaimonidesA N D

Rabbi Yael Splansky and Neil Yerman, Torah Scribe

Mon. Dec. 5, 2005, at 8 p.m.

How do you like your Maimonides? Shaken, not stirred. Over martinis, Rabbi Yael Splansky will lead an interactive text study, based on the writings of the 12th-century philosophy giant, Maimonides. Neil Yerman will guide us through the ancient art of crafting a Torah, and the power of each letter. This program is generously sponsored by Torat Chaim, Holy Blossom Temple’s Sefer Torah project.

Generation t (for 20 and 30 somethings)

Fulfi lling the 613th commandment

On Sun. Dec. 4, 2005, Neil Yerman, the Sofer or Scribe who will guide our congregation in writing a new Torah, will visit with us.

We invite you to meet him, at the Temple, at 11 a.m.

Neil will explain how you can write a letter in the new scroll, and will answer your questions about the process.

The unique feature of his work is the educational experience that he offers. Equally at home with tots and seniors, Neil focuses on fostering a love for both the physical Torah and for the letters of wisdom it contains.

When I spoke to Neil recently, I asked him what questions people usually ask

when an enterprise of this kind is intro-duced. Here is Neil’s reply.

Why are we writing a new Torah Scroll together? — The last commandment of the Torah, which begins “Write this song for yourselves …”, was understood by the Rabbis to mean that each person in the community must write a Torah during his or her lifetime. This is the 613th commandment.

How can I fulfi ll the commandment if I am not a scribe? — There are different ways to do this. In our case, the congre-gants of Holy Blossom Temple are being given the special opportunity of writing their own letter in the Torah.

Who, me? —Yes, you! You will be able to hold a quill and write a letter.

What if I do not know how to write in Hebrew? What if I know nothing about Hebrew calligraphy? — No problem. Each person who wishes to perform this

mitzvah will hold the quill and write their letter. I will help each person carry out this religious obligation. No prior ex-perience with Hebrew or as a calligrapher is necessary.

What if I make a mistake? — Since I will be helping each participant, there is little likelihood of error. But mistakes do happen. The good news is that they can be easily fi xed.

What do I have to bring with me to a writing session? — I provide the parch-ment, quills and ink. You bring along your commitment, dedication and desire to participate fully in the experience.

How old does a person have to be to write a letter? — Please bring all your loved ones.

Please join us for this wonderful opportunity to meet with Neil. Bring your questions with you. I know he will be delighted to answer them.

150th Anniversary Celebrationby Janice Babins, Chair, Torat Chaim Project

Shabbes TishFridays at 9.30 p.m., Jan. 27, Feb. 24, Mar. 31, Apr. 28 and May 26, 2006 Join Rabbi Yael Splansky and Aviva Chernick to celebrate Shabbat with wine and dessert, singing and study.

Yoga with a twistTuesdays at 7.30 p.m. Jan. 10 to Feb. 28, 2006

Michelle Katz, a certified Iyengar Yoga instructor who also teaches Jewish meditation, and Rabbi Yael Splansky will use movement and Jewish texts to demonstrate the interplay between body, mind and soul.

All programs are open to all 20 and 30 somethings, members and non-members. For more details, please call Cynthia Silverman (ext. 276), at the Temple.


Shabbat Shiraat 10.30 a.m.

Lunch and Learn in Retirement

Back to BroadwayJanet Thorpe and John SimeonWed. Dec. 7, 2005, at 12.30 p.m.*A light luncheon will be served, co-sponsored by Kensington Place, before the concert. The cost for this afternoon will be $2. Please note that this will be the last Lunch and Learn in Re-tirement until we resume in the spring. Have a wonderful winter!

* Please note change of time.

Seniors’ Programming at Holy BlossomMondays @ the Temple

Creating a TorahNeil Yerman, Torah ScribeDec. 5, at 10 a.m.This program is sponsored by Sisterhood.

What Makes a Best Seller, a Best Seller Tina Diamond Dec. 12, at 10 a.m.

Annual Chanukah PartyDec. 19, 12 p.m.*Mondays @ the Temple and Sister-

hood invite all seniors to join us for this festive event. Mitch Smolkin, Creative Director of the Ashkenaz Festival, will be back to entertain us. Those who celebrated Chanukah with us last year know what a treat it is to hear Mitch sing. A festive lunch will be served fi rst, with the con-cert to follow.* Please note change of time.

We will not meet on Dec. 26, 2005 and Jan. 2, 2006. We will resume our regular programming on Jan. 9, 2006.

Sat. Feb. 11. 2006with Lindi Rivers, Cantorial Soloist

Come and pray with us and discover, through words and music, why Naomi is known as “the fi rst lady of Israeli song.”

Cantor Lindi Rivers, along with the Temple Singers, the Holy Blossom Temple Junior Choir and other talented musicians, will bring this musical legacy to life.

During the Shabbat Morning Service, join us for a tribute to

Naomi Shemer

the beloved Israeli poet/songwriter who composed

Yerushalayim shel Zahav (Jerusalem of Gold).


The Marmur Lectures, with Rabbi Dow Marmur (Sept. 7)

Images of fall

Rabbi Dow Marmur (left) speaks with Temple member Dr. Bob Ruderman.

How to Be a Liberal Religious Jew in the 21st Century, with Rabbi Michael Stroh (Sept. 8)

(Left to right) Temple members Henrietta Chesnie and Ruth Fremes speak with Rabbi Michael Stroh.

Scandinavia Through Jewish Eyes, with Rochelle Carrady (Sept. 20)

Rochelle Carrady (left) with Temple Librarian Anne Dublin.

From renowned speakers to spirited Festival celebrations, fall 2005 brought hundreds of people to the Temple for a variety of events. We heard several lectures, including ones from Rabbis Dow Marmur and Michael Stroh, as well as a provocative Holocaust Educa-tion talk from Professor Michael Marrus. Temple members participated in a house build for Habitat for Humanity. And, as always, Sukkot and Simchat Torah brought out members to decorate, dance and mark the end of the annual cycle of reading Torah. We would like to thank our new Sukkot/Simchat Torah chairs, Judi Swartz Skolnik and Susan Rosen Speigel, and their dedicated com-mittee of volunteers, who added beauty and joy to the fall Festivals. And a special thank you to Phyllis Cincinatus, who oversees all the Festivals throughout the year. Her attention to detail and creative spirit make every holiday a true celebration.

All photographs by Paul Hellen, unless otherwise indicated.

Brotherhood Board of Directors Installation (Sept. 18)

Some of Brotherhood’s 5766 Board of Directors and members (left to right) are: (standing) Richard Vrooman, Paul Hellen, Dr. Howard Mandel, Albert Frank, Ike Morgulis, Peter Loebel, John Sweet, Peter Theimer, Robert Collin, Filip Levkovic and Steven Rayson; and (sit-ting) John Freund, Howard Roger, Jeff Levy (Brotherhood President) and Sydney Jacobs.


Consecration (Oct. 25)

Habitat for Humanity (Oct. 23)

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Some of our 50 terrifi c volunteers who helped Habitat for Humanity build a home for a working poor family.

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Simchat Torah Flag Making and Dancing with the Torah (Oct. 25)

Sukkah Decorating (Oct. 16)

Some of our younger members get ready to decorate the Sukkah.

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The following Grade 1 students celebrated Consecration this year at Holy Blossom Temple: Jonathan Abbey, Joshua Arbess, Spencer Atin, Jack Basian, Raisa Berkowitz,Cole Brodkin, Samuel Cantor, Amanda Cash, Annie Chusid, Bram Cole, Isabel Coleman, Ashley Colt, Jonah Davids, Erin Day, Julia Duckman, Nicole Ehrlich, Max-well Fingold, Elliot Fish, Kendall Gnat, Cloe Gordon-Chow, Sally Gotlieb, Jacob Gotlieb, Jerrod Greenberg, Max Grossman, Alison Hacker, James Hendrickson, Victor Horowitz, Taylor Johnson, Harley Jonatan, Neil Jonatan, Joshua Kazman, Meaghan Kenley, Jordan Kestenberg, Lauren Kirsh, William Klein, Adam Krowitz, Casey Levitt, Anthony Lieberman, Adrian Lugassy, Lindsay Lyons, Benjamin McLean, Nathaniel McLean, Sydney Milrad, Alexandra Mogil, Benjamin Mogil, Maya Morrow, Rachel Nirenberg, Jordan Otis, Harry Pencer, Jordan Pike, Emma Prentice, Yasmin Rachlin, Gabriel Crawford-Ritchie, Edan Rosen, Shira Rubinoff, Carly Salts-man, Nathan Schenk, Jordan Shear, Sophie Sklar, Zoe Solomon, Mikayla Solomons, Jordana Stal, Alexander Swartz, Ezra Tennen, Jack Tuchner, Jared Klein-Tyer, Jordana Victor, Jonah Walters, Ra-chel Wengle, Aden Wineberg, Michael Wolfe, Rachel Wolfe, Noah Yakobson, Jacob Young and Andie Zuckerman

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Cantor Lindi Rivers leads a Torah procession on Simchat Torah.


Events and AnnouncementsArts and Literature

The Fine Arts CommitteePAINTINGS BY EVA NICHOLLS

Exhibit runs to Thur. Dec. 8, 2005

A CALL TO TEMPLE ARTISTS

To help us celebrate Holy Blossom Temple’s 150th Anniversary, we invite you to participate in a special exhibit to take place on May 7, 2006, to showcase the works of members of our Temple.

Artists may submit two original works: painting, collage, prints, photography, small sculptures, ceramics or glassworks. Please pick up an entry form in the Temple offi ce and return as soon as possible.

Holy Blossom Temple Stagecraft CompanyWOMEN’S MINYAN, BY NAOMI RAGEN

Thur. Dec 15 and Sat. Dec. 17 at 7.30 p.m., and Sun. Dec. 18, 2005, at 2.30 p.m.This powerful drama is set in Jerusalem and tells the story of a mother who is seek-ing custody of her children, after being denied access by a religious court. Tickets: $15; $10 for seniors and students. For more details or to order tickets, please call the Stagecraft hotline (ext. 511), at the Temple.

BOOK DRIVE

Holy Blossom Temple is once again con-ducting a children’s book drive. We accept any books, toys or games that are in excel-lent condition. Donations can be placed in the blue bin in the school foyer. These items will be distributed by The Furniture Bank to the children of families who have just secured permanent housing. The book and toy drive will continue throughout the year.

Gemilut Chasadim

OUT OF THE COLD

We would appreciate donations of the following:• Clean large-sized coats, sweatshirts and

sweat pants; and• Hotel-size toiletries: shampoo, soap, hand

cream, toothpaste and toothbrushes.Thank you for your support.

THE SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE

We are launching a new agenda. To be a part of it, please call Cynthia Silverman (ext. 276), at the Temple.

150th Anniversary Celebration

CELEBRATING PAST CONFIRMANDS

As part of the Temple’s 150th Anniversary celebrations, we are planning a cele-bration for those who were confi rmed at Holy Blossom Temple. Please send us your name and e-mail address so we can ensure you receive an invitation. Please e-mail [email protected], or call ext. 506, at the Temple. If you know any other past Confi rmands, please ask them to register with us.

Sisterhood

OPEN BOARD MEETING AND PROJECT 2005 RAFFLE DRAW

Tue. Dec. 13, 2005, at 7 p.m.All Sisterhood members are invited to at-tend our annual Open Board Meeting and Project Raffl e Draw. Prizes will be drawn at this exciting evening, including the top prize of a romantic weekend for two at the Briars, including meals. Guest artist Sharon Smith Miller will provide enter-tainment and refreshments will be served.

SISTERHOOD RETREAT — THE MIKVAH: MYTHS, TRUTHS AND POSSIBILITIES OF ORIGINAL WATER THERAPY

Rabbi Yael SplanskyFri. Apr. 7 to Sun. Apr. 9, 2006Horseshoe Valley Resort, Barrie

Treat yourself to a weekend of study, wor-ship, rest and good company, sharing with other women and celebrating Shabbat.Registration required. Cost: $285 for members; $330 for non-members. For more details, please call the Sisterhood hotline (ext. 514), at the Temple.

JUDAICA SHOP

Please visit the Sisterhood Judaica Shop to fi nd wonderful gift items for all your special occasions. We carry a variety of hostess gifts, Chanukah gifts, Passover items, books and other treasures. The Shop is open Monday to Friday from 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., and Sundays from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., as well as from 1 to 2 p.m on Thursdays during the winter.

BABY NAMING SWEATERS

Sisterhood presents all baby girls named at the Temple with a hand-knitted sweater. If you knit and would like to help with this project, please call the Sisterhood hotline (ext. 514), at the Temple. Wool and patterns are provided.

Greater Community

THE TORONTO JEWISH HEALING PROJECT

Wed. Dec. 7, 2005, at 12.30 p.m. (last session)Rabbi Ed Elkin and Michelle KatzFirst Narayever Congregation To register, please call Etta Ginsberg McEwan, Co-ordinator, at (416) 944-3359.

In memoriam Rabbi David R. PowellRabbi David R. Powell was Assistant Rabbi at Holy Blossom Temple from 1963 to 1966. He passed away on Nov. 6, 2005, at the age of 73. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please direct it to Plaut Manor, by calling ext. 228, at the Temple.


Our Congregational Family Welcome to Our Temple Family

We would like to welcome the following new members to our Holy Blossom Temple family:

Carla Baudot, and EricaJennifer & Adam BookmanHelene Brodziak & Jack KugelmassJennifer & Jason Burstein, and SophieLeigh & David Caplan, and Benjamin and JacobTania Charzewski & Jonathan FreedmanDana Cohen & Adam Greenspoon, and SophieJoi Cole & Barry Herberman, and Kayley, Jessica, Shani, Jesse

and JaredDeborah Dalfen & Jamie ShulmanRobin Mirsky Daniels & Robert Daniels, and Jonah, Hannah,

Joshua and MarissaSuzy & Michael Day, and Samantha and AlexanderElyse Dubo & Marc Gelman, and Hannah and LilyZelda & Jeffrey FarberSusan & Brian Fishman, and Tory and RobertMary Foster & Stuart Warner, and Michael and AnneSean GilbertJulie & Roman Gofman, and Jacob and HannahTina Goldlist & Howard Piafsky, and Jakob, Benjamin and IsabelleMartha & Paul Goldman, and Russell and DanielMildred & Sheldon GoldsteinKaren Goos & Steven Salamon, and Malcolm and TobiasTobi & Alan Gordon, and Jonathan and JenniferChristina & Howard Greenberg, and Rayna, Daniel and HannahAlyson & Rubin HananJeffrey HandsPatty & Marcel HimelBarbara & Robert HodesEllen & Elliott Horwitz, and Adam and JenniferSarah Johnson & Jeffrey Hecker Marcia & Adolph Kahan,and Noa and MaayanDana KellyInna Koldorf & Daniel KalechsteinAnne LowenthalFrances & Randy Malinsky, and MathewCatherine & Solomon Mayers, and David, Steven, Jennifer and

RebeccaMarcela Mayo, and Shenhab Sharon & Grant McCutcheonDebra Moskovitz & Richard Posner, and Jackson and OliviaJoanne MyersReuben Nelson

Danielle & Lawrence Pascal, and Matthew and HaleySandra Rinaldo, and Amanda, Emma and MargalitLeslie RoseLisa & Paul Rosen, and Dean and EdanYulia & Rodney RosenbergDavid SchneiderSusie Sheffman & Lyle Goodis, and Ben and MollyElda & Jonathan Sherman, and SamanthaAmalia & Ze’ev ShoreDeborah Siegel & Eric Beutel,and Avery and ZacharyCandy Ram Beran Singh & Andrew TileCarla & Michael Stitt, and Eli and NathanielHeidi Surkis-Eisen & Barry Eisen, and Dylan and JustinBrenda Tipper & Michael Sigal, and DanielSusan Unger & Edward Hussman, and Julia, Paul and RebeccaDorothy & William Wolfson

Mazal Tov

Rose Wolfe, on being named an honorary fellow at St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto, in recognition of her work as chancellor of the University from 1991 to 1997, and for her leadership in relations between Christians and Jews.

BirthsLeigh & George Eisenberg on the birth of their granddaughter

Evalynn Summer Bogusz, daughter of Cara Eisenberg & Stephen Bogusz. Other proud grandparent is Anne Marie Bogusz. Thrilled great-grandparents are Celia Eisenberg and Shirley Firestone.

Sondra & Bob Bertoia on the birth of their granddaughter Amelia Ruby Lydia Dixon, daughter of Amanda & Steven Dixon, sister to Adelaide. Other proud grandparents are Fran & Doug Dixon.

Sharon & Lloyd Duckman on the birth of their granddaughter Rebecca Ariel Herlich, daughter of Shawna & Neil Herlich, sister to Taryn and Samantha. Other proud grandparents are Ronda & Joey Doppelt.

Hilary & Tal Maissner on the birth of their daughter Kaia Georgia Maissner. Proud grandparents are Minda Bigel and Mark Bigel and Hope & Beny Maissner. Thrilled great-grandparents are Esther & Harvey Brown and Belle Weisfeld.

Sacha Hayward-Pollack & Jonathan Pollack on the birth of their son Max Joshua Pollack. Proud grandparents are Alex Hayward and Nancy & Lloyd Pollack. Thrilled great-grandfather is Charles Goodfellow.

Terri & Ted Schipper on the birth of their granddaughter Kylie Marnie Schipper, daughter of Stacey Reznick-Schipper & Terry Schipper. Other proud grandparents are Sidney & Randi Reznick and Ava & Bernie Rubin.


EngagementsJennifer Saunders, daughter of Toby and Larry Saunders of

Chatanooga, Tenn., and Josh Kerbel, son of Ruth & Jerry Kerbel, who will be married in June 2006.

B’nei Mitzvah

9 Kislev 5766 / Dec. 10, 2005 Adam Anshan, son of Dr. Brenda Spiegler

& Mark S. Anshan

9 Kislev 5766 / Dec. 10, 2005Hannah Davis, daughter of Laurie & Michael Davis

In Memoriam

The congregation sympathizes with the recently bereaved families of:Murray Abron, husband of Edythe Abron, father of Sharon Abron-

DracheRalph Berger, husband of Susan Berger, father of Eric Berger and

Esther Berger, son of Bernie Berger, brother of David BergerSandra Bloomberg-Nudelman, wife of Morris Nudelman, daughter

of Jack Bloomberg, sister of Steven BloombergMadeline Brodey, mother of Jerry Brodey, JoAnne Brodey and Mike

BrodeySusan Daniels, mother of Anthony Daniels and Michael Daniels,

sister of Jean HaaseDavid Dickman, husband of Renate Dickman, father of Alexander

Davids and Daniel Davids, brother of Pearl SelibowitzJoseph Ederman, husband of Helene Ederman, father of Michael

Ederman, Nadine Ederman and Cheryl WestIda (Hinky) Gold, wife of Max Gold, mother of Lorry Crockower and Sheldon Gold, sister of Henry BasskinBelle Grant, mother of Garry Goodman and Godfrey GoodmanMitchell Nichols, husband of Annie Pearl Nichols, father of Sandy

Douglas and Brian Nichols, brother of Herschel NicholsDora Prince, wife of Sam Prince, mother of Cathy Kwinter, Irwin

Prince and Jonas PrinceDavid Ship, father of Shirley Nickless and Saul ShipAda Siegel, mother of Steven Siegel, sister of Norma Sweet and Rose

WolfeLillian Starkman, mother of Gail Lieberthal and Harvey Starkman,

sister of Daisy Harriss and Connie LubottaPhyliss Sternthal, wife of Julius Sternthal, mother of Betty Goldwarg,

Lise Sklar, Jack Sternthal and Joni Sternthal.Louis (Lou) Winer, father of Aviva Gottlieb, Elly Winer and Michael

Winer

Memorial Plaques

Lights will be kindled in the Sanctuary, for seven days, starting the Saturday evening before the anniversary date, to mark the yahrzeit of the following:Name DateDora Fromovitz* Nov. 7Harry J. Pachter* 12Wendy Sassaman* 17Andre Bigio* 22Stephen Eisen* 29Ruth Borden Dec. 1Dr. Gustav Freund 1Karel Freund 1Elizabeth Schiff 1Harry Silverman 1Belle Switzer Tile 1Samuel Weinstein 1Florence Wolfe 1Arnold Centner 2Gilda Lillian Stanway 2Dinah Blumenthal 3Louis Krugel 3Alan Winters 3Simon Fines 4Florence Shear 4Anne Tile 4Benjamin Tishler 4Sally Axler Bolton 5Mark Geldzaeler 5Herbert Kurtz 5Grace Pape 5Annie Eisen Abel 6Frederick G. Gans 6Michael Garfi eld 6Luba Ginsburg 6Rhoda Grossman 6Murray Axler 7Eugene Gross 7Harry Landau 7Frank Maron 7Joseph Winters 7William Engel 8Max Stein 8Toby Isaacs 9Arthur Miller 9Rose Posen 9Robert Slan 9Bohden Slonetsky 9Esther Bercowitz 10Harold Berk 10

Name DatePansy Frankfurter Dec. 10Ida Marcus 10Dr. David Perlman 10Morris Rubel 10Anne Silverman 10Rona Vankay 10Pauline Cohen 11Louis Hyman 11Lillan Masters 11Stephen Joseph Silverman 11Frank Fremes 12Benjamin Gitter 12Ben Mason 12Howard Mitchell 12Chaya Ratkovitch 12Beatrice Schipper 12Esther Shainak Stransman 12Isaac Atkins 13Rose Finberg 13Hyman Freedman 13Annie Jacobs 13Sarah Sarner 13Henry Goodman 14Harold Isenberg 14Saul August Silverman 14Leola Starr 14Estelle Winkler Caplan 15Charlotte Bochner 16Esther Eisenberg 16Morris Goldenberg 16Barbara Greenberg 16Harry Greenwood 16Abraham Jackson 16Harvey Kriss 16Lilian Shafron 16Harry Silver 16Anne Tile 16Abraham Broudy 17Lilan Blanche Fine 17Rhoda Simon Goldberg 17Arthur Hutner 17Maurice Rotstein 17Hyman Bocknek 18Benjamin Cooper 18Joseph Bernard Dunkelman 18Max Krugel 18Esther Pearlstein 18Sydney Stupp 18Jack Collins 19Esther Harris 19Cecil Killen 19


Name DateJames Leibel Dec. 19Florence Marantz 19Ida Posen 19Sophie Allen 20Louis Posen 20Abraham Eisen 21Rose Harris 21Philip Kasman 21Samuel Sternberg 21Freda Farb 22Malcolm Samuel Feldstein 22Samuel Fine 22Ralph Hyman 22Sara Kasman 22Benjamin I. Pape 22Louis Lokash 23Fay Mendelson 23Emil Rosen 23Max Apt 24Shifra Axelrod 24Rebecca Budish 24Rose Hertzman 24Rose Pascal 24Essie Cohen 25Bessie Leila Edison 25Gertrude Lawrence 25George Liban 26Gurston Sidney Allen 27John Aaron Davis 27Rose Hands 27Henry Hearst 27Pearl Ginsberg 27Joseph Lyons 27Jennie Breslin 28Dorothy Garfi eld 28Tibor Rimler 28Edward Hy Rosman 28Hyman Cotton 29

Name DateBernard Abraham Menace Dec.29Ben Pape 29Irving Sherman 29Dora Kurtz 30Helen Levine 30Joseph Silver 30Jack Cummings 31David Fauman 31Clara Pencer 31Ethyle Robins 31Robert (Kael) Shriar 31Rose Sutton 31Robert Slan Jan. 1Joseph Lyons 3Ida Oiffer 3Louis Oiffer 3Gloria Berger 4Henry Eisen 4Harry Paulin 4Cynthia Rumm 4Bessie Thelma Singer 4Martin White 4Myer Samuel Fine 5Jack Israel Golden 5Harry Kay 5Mildred Loebel 5Murray Freeman 6Sarah Marshall 6Irene Rees 6Huck Shiner 6Coleman Solursh 6Israel Wolfe 6Jack Allen 7Sol Allen 7Peter Gotfrid 7Sonia Greenberg 7James Humphreys 7

We thank our generous donors

Accessibility FundCatherine Larkin, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwan

Aid for Survivors of TerrorismValerie & Joel Fish, Mazal Tov: Franci & Ken Sniderman Kathy & Maurice Green, Happy New Year: Ellen KarabanowCecile Goodman, Happy New Year: Ellen KarabanowTerrye & Jack Kuper, Wedding Anniversary: Yvette & Gerald NaimerAvi Kuper, Bar Mitzvah: Terrye & Jack KuperKaren Liberman, Best Wishes: Ellen Karabanow

Jean Fine Seniors FundDaisy & Syd Jacobs, Special Birthdays: Rosalyn & Saul Leese; Fern & Donny Resnick; Marelene & Robert Ruderman; Sheila & Bob SmolkinCatherine Larkin, In Memory: Sheila & Bob SmolkinDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Lyn & Bob Klotz

Floral FundAdam Zachary Anshan, Bar Mitzvah: Brenda Spiegler & Mark S. AnshanHannah Davis, Bat Mitzvah: Laurie & Michael DavisSarah Emily Firestone, Bat Mitzvah: Wendy Linden-Firestone & Stephen FirestoneSarah Golvin, Bat Mitzvah: Judy & Stuart GolvinShane Rosenberg, Bar Mitzvah: Ellen & Marvin Rosenberg

Holy Blossom Temple FoundationBarbara & Ralph Goldman, 50th Wedding Anniversary: Elinor & Beryl BorsookJoi Guttman & Perry Young, Marriage: Sandra & David Sandler; Rivanne SandlerMelissa Grossman & Bruce Dorland, Birth of Son: Barry Borden Carole Grossman, Birth of Grandson: Barry Borden Catherine Larkin, In Memory: Holy Blossom Shabbat Minyan Group; Lorraine & Donald LoebAndrew Pack, In Memory: Susan & Barry Borden; Myrna FreedmanLianne & Robert Piltz, 55th Wedding Aniversary: Elinor & Beryl Borsook

Isenberg Endowment FundDanielle Kochen, Bat Mitzvah: Carol & Steve PilonJack Milgrom, In Memory: Carol & Steve Pilon

Israel Study FundDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Phyllis & Jeff Denaburg, Beth and Robbie

Jacobs Tower FundLili Barr, Get Well Soon: Florence HertzmanStephanie Cohen, In Honour: Florence & Harold HertzmanJill Hertzman, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwan

Joan Kerbel Leadership Development FundPaul Hellen, In Appreciation: Holy Blossom Temple SisterhoodEtienne & Aubrey Kaplan, Mazal Tov: Holy Blossom Temple SisterhoodCatherine Larkin, In Memory: Gail & Gary Goodman; Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood;

Holy Blossom Temple SingersHoward Roger, In Appreciation: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood

Library Book FundSylvia Miller, Special Birthday: Francie & Marty StormDiana Morgulis, In Memory: Alison MarshallRabbi John Moscowitz, In Appreciation: Fern & Lorne Kirshenbaum

Dow and Fredzia Marmur Program for Educational ExcellenceSylvia Basheukin, Mazal Tov on Appointment: Sybil & Jack GellerPhyllis & Michael Cincinatus, Mazal Tov: Ellen KarabanowRose Garfi nkel, In Honour: Sybil and Jack GellerTerrye & Jack Kuper, Mazal Tov: Bea & Saul SidlofskyShirley & Marvin Latchman, 50th Wedding Anniversary: Terrye & Jack KuperRabbi Dow Marmur, In Appreciation: The Holy Blossom Temple ChavurahAlbert Molson, Yahrzeit: Thelma and Barney BerrisFrancie Storm, Speedy Recovery: Joyce & Barry Spiegel

Musical Legacy FundMax Blum, In Memory: Razelle Roebuck & David MacCoyToby & Gary Ciglen, 54th Wedding Anniversary: Fran & Murray EllisHilary & Tal Maissner, Mazal Tov: Matilda Bigio; Glenda Mindlin and Alison MindlinSandi & Andi Schafer, 44th Wedding Anniversary: Mari Lynn RusakMillie Steinberg, Speedy Recovery: Francie & Martin Storm

Out of the ColdMax Blum, In Memory: Sue & Lou DevorGail & Zel Bocknek, Birth of Grandson: Randi & Stuart FeinerGunnar Funke, In Memory: Sue & Lou Devor; Kathy & Maurice GreenCarole & Howard Gelfand, Mazal Tov: Susanne, Stuart, Aaron, Deena and Jonathan EgierAl Geller, Get Well Soon: Gitte & Les CrangleAvi Kuper, Bar Mitzvah: Mimi & Malcolm KronbyTerrye & Jack Kuper, Mazal Tov: Esther & Marvin Tile

* Inadvertently omitted from the last Bulletin.


To make a donation to any of our existing funds, please call the Foundation Offi ce, at (416) 789-3291, ext. 228.

To learn more about how you can support the Holy Blos som Tem ple Foundation, or to establish a new fund, please call Deborah Tameanko, at (416) 789-3291, ext. 228.

To make a donation to MAZON Canada, please call (416) 783-7554.

To make a donation to the Toronto Community Forest Fund, please call Sybil Gor don at (416) 489-5709.

We appreciate your supportHoly Blossom Temple appreciates all donations to our funds, how ev er due to rising costs, cards will only be sent for donations of $18 or more. We will con tin ue to rec og nize donations of $18 or more in the Bulletin.

We apologize but due to space constraints, not all do na tions will ap pear in the Bulletin issue closest to the date on which the con tri bu tion was made. Donations in this issue were received by Oct. 25, 2005.

Contacts for Donations

Linda Moss, Mazal Tov: Phyllis & Jeff Denaburg, and Beth and RobbieLen Sober, In Memory: The Simonsky FamilyCatherine Larkin, In Memory: Shelly Berenbaum & Chuck Litman; Mimi Kronby;

Abe Neufeld and Larry BabinsAndrew Pack, In Memory: Annie & Michael Appleby; Shelly Berenbaum & Chuck

Litman; Michelle Katz & Larry Blumenthal, and Jesse and Mira; Lynn & Richard Burton; Sue & Lou Devor; Fran & Murray Ellis; Randi & Stuart Feiner; Raquel & Alan Feldberg; Ethel & Harold Freeman; Kathy & Maurice Green; Doreen & Joe Kronick; Yvonne & Herbert Lowe; Lesley & Ron Miller; Barbara Organ; Ann & Gary Posen; Janet Ryval; Marsha Slivka; Sheila & Bob Smolkin; Eleanor & Hartley Steinberg; The Zeilig Family

Nancy & Lloyd Pollack, Mazal Tov: The Gotfrid FamilyGary Tile, Special Birthday: Tina Urman & Carey Diamond, and Shayna, Sunny and RoryBill Weinstein, Get Well Soon: Gitte & Les CrangleWise Family, Happy New Year: Beverley LokashMichael Wunder, Happy Birthday: Lori & Lawrie Wilder

Harry and Cecile Pearl Youth Award FundStephen Pearl, 60th Birthday: Rochelle Green

Prayer Book FundElie Cass, In Memory: Jean & Richard Lorie Nancy Ruth Educational FundDonna Robins, Mazal Tov: Nancy & Sam Ruth

Shacharit FundHenry Clavir, Yahrzeit: Isabel SchwartzPinkas Dermer, Yahrzeit: Clara EngelRose Freedman, Yahrzeit: Bea & Saul SidlofskyKaren Goldblatt, Yahrzeit: Barry GoldblattSylvia Guberman, Yahrzeit: Judith WilanskyMichael Mandel, Yahrzeit: Vera & Alex MandelVera Margolis, Yahrzeit: Rachel & Harvin Pitch

Anne Nashman, Yahrzeit: Rina and Saul FishbeinBill Pitch, Yahrzeit: Harvin PitchAmelia Pless, Yahrzeit: Dora TrackHenry Rogosin, In Memory: Joyce & Barry SpiegelHelen Schwartz Feldt, Yahrzeit: Myrna SilverAnne Wardinger, Yahrzeit: Roberta WardingerSam Wasserman, Yahrzeit: Maxine & Mel Wasserman

Al & Dora Track Scholarship FundAl Track, Yahrzeit: Dora Track

Youth AwardsGreg Mahon, In Appreciation: Janis Karlinsky & Jon EnnisNancy & Lloyd Pollack, Birth of Grandson: Franci & Ken SnidermanPenny & Martin Offman, Mazal Tov: Rosalyn & Stan WitkinLen Sober, In Memory: Susan Baskin & Jack Micay and Family; Razelle Roebuck &

David MacCoyLionel Waldman, Mazal Tov: Rosalyn & Stan Witkin

Yasher koach to all who chanted Torah and Haftarah throughout the High Holy Days: Gurston Allen • Joshua Alman Daniel Axelrod • Madlyn Axelrod • Carmen Baker • Lisa Baumal • Spencer Burger • Ari Burkes • Dorothy Charach • Sara Charney Steven Conway • Jeff Denaburg • Matthew Dicker • Hershell Ezrin • Erika Finestone Randi Garfi nkel • Joan Garson • Erin Gelgoot Mark Goodman • Hayley Gotfrid • David Greenberg • Benjamin Hertzman • Yale Hertzman • Emil Horvath • Rachel Iscove Jill Kamin • Mira Katz Blumenthal • Marc Levy • Pavle Levkovic • Brian Lidsky • Taiga Lipson • Ari Lyon-Wein • Mira Lyon • Rachel Malach • Rebecca Mintz • Eric Petersiel Alberto Quiroz • Ethel Raicus • Virginia Reh Joshua Richman-Gould • Ben Rosen • Andie Rosenbaum • Daniel Rotsztain • Brenda Saunders • Ted Shafran • Lorne Shapiro Jennifer Silverstein • Adam Sol • Ben Solomon Andrew Topp • Paula Warren • Kevin Zeilig

Honouring those who bring honour to the Torah

Our congregation is strengthened by your commitment and inspired by your devotion to Torah study.

Yasher Koach to those who blew the shofar during the month of Elul and on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur: Zel Bocknek Michael Cole • Peter Dan • Steven Dan • Barry Goldblatt • Howard Goodman • Haley Gotfrid Tal Maissner • Robin Malach • Jesse Markowitz Lorne Shapiro • Ken Sniderman • Paul Soren Paula Warren

We are grateful to Larry Babins and Abe Neufeld, our Head Ushers and all our ushers who welcome congregants each year: Stan Bernstein • Karen Brill • Barry Borden Reuben Bromstein • Gordon Ciglen • James Cooper • Jeffrey Dicker • Tom Ehrlich • Arnold Englander • David Fine • Albert Frank • Myrna Freedman • Alan Garfi nkel • Louis Glait • Kathy Green • Maurice Green • Brian Hands • Alan Heavenrich • Paul Hellen • Harry Hochman

Carmen Horvath • Emil Horvath • Ellen Karabanow • Bambi Katz • Rick Lash • Jeffrey Levy • Richard Lorie • Glenda Mindlin • Steve Moranis • Debbie Moses • Robert Moses • Linda Neufeld • Mel Olsberg • Barbara Organ • John Phillips • Gary Posen • Alberto Quiroz • Michael Ryval • Hank Rosen • Steve Rosenbaum Shoshana Sage • Heather Shapiro • Fred Saunders • Walter Seaton Barry Silver • Judith Slan • Marsha Slivka • Lyle Stanway • Alan Tinianov • Jack Toker

Thanks to Jill Hertzman, Head of Gabbaim and all our Gabbaim who make sure our Services run so smoothly: Matilda Bigio Esther Bergman • Barry Borden • Phyllis Denaburg • Carmen Horvath • Brian Hands Jane Herman • Alan Garfi nkel • Shelly Mandell Glenda Mindlin • David Mock • Alberto Quiroz Eric Roher • Brenda Saunders • Ted Shafran • Barry Silver • John Sweet • Gary Tile • Arieh Waldman And thank you to the countless volunteers who brought such joyous meaning to our New Year.


This month @ Holy Blossom December 2005/January 2006Kislev/Tevet 5766

The Bulletin is published 11 times a year, between September and June, by Holy Blossom Temple, 1950 Bathurst Street, Toronto, ON M5P 3K9. Telephone: (416) 789-3291; Fax: (416) 789-9697; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: www.holyblossom.org. Honorary Pres i dent: John A. Geller; President: Alan Garfi nkel; Senior Rabbi: John Moscowitz; Associate Rabbi: Yael Splansky; Associate Rabbi: Jason Rosenberg; Rabbi: Edward Goldfarb; Cantor: Benjamin Z. Maissner; Director of Education: Bebe Jacobs; Interim Director of Education: Deborah K. Spiegel; Rabbi Emeritus: Dow Marmur; Senior Schol ar: Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut; Executive Director: Benjamin Applebaum; Holy Blossom Temple Foundation Chair: Judy Nyman; Bulletin Committee Chair: Richard Rotman; Bulletin Editor: Judy Nyman.

Design and Production: Holy Blossom Temple was found ed in 1856 and is af fi l i at ed with the Union for Reform Judaism and the Canadian Council for Reform Judaism.

As dates and times may change without notice, please confi rm all information by calling the Temple – at any time – to access This Week @ Holy Blossom recording.

For Worship Services, please see page 2.

Fri. Dec. 2 1 Kislev5.30 p.m. Pre-Shabbes Nosh6 p.m. Tot Shabbat Service and Dinner

Sat. Dec. 3 2 Kislev9 a.m. Torah Study

Sun. Dec. 4 3 Kislev

11 a.m. Meet Torah Scribe Neil Yerman1 p.m. Great Moments in Jewish History at the ROM, with Geri Durbin

Mon. Dec. 5 4 Kislev10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Neil Yerman7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew6.30 p.m. Grade 7 Parent/Student Program, with Neil Yerman7.30 p.m. The Israel Seminar, with Rabbis John Moscowitz and Edward Goldfarb8 p.m. Martinis and Maimonides (for 20 and 30 somethings)

Tue. Dec. 6 5 Kislev9.30 a.m. Exploring the Jewish Character in Literature, with Cynthia Good11 a.m. Advanced Hebrew8 p.m. The Power of Democracy in (Secret) Action, with Azar Nafi si

Wed. Dec. 7 6 Kislev9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel 10.30 a.m. Jewish Meditation, with Michelle Katz 12.30 p.m. Lunch and Learn in Retirement6.30 p.m. Beginners Hebrew7.30 p.m. What Every Jew Should Know about Islam, with Atif Khalil

Thur. Dec. 8 7 Kislev7.30 p.m. Sima Vaknin Is a Witch (Israel Movie Night)

Fri. Dec. 9 8 Kislev5.30 p.m. Pre-Shabbes Nosh6 p.m. Kabbalat Dinner and Study, with Joel Hoffman

Sat. Dec. 10 9 Kislev9 a.m. Torah Study12.30 p.m. Lunch and Learn: How to Read Jewish Text, with Joel Hoffman

Sun. Dec. 11 10 Kislev9 a.m. Grade 5 Parent/Student Program9.30 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast Club, with David Hart10.15 a.m. The How and Why of Hebrew Grammar, with Joel Hoffman12.30 p.m. YEAH! Chanukah Program2.30 p.m. Family Programming’s Cooking for Chanukah

Mon. Dec. 12 11 Kislev10 a.m. Mondays @ the Temple, with Tina Diamond7 p.m. Intermediate Hebrew7.30 p.m. The Israel Seminar, with Rabbis John Moscowitz and Edward Goldfarb

Tue. Dec. 13 12 Kislev9.30 a.m. Exploring the Jewish Character in Literature, with Cynthia Good11 a.m. Advanced Hebrew 7 p.m. Sisterhood Board Meeting and Project 2005 Draw, with Sharon Smith Miller

Wed. Dec. 14 13 Kislev9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel 6.30 p.m. Beginners Hebrew7.30 p.m. What Every Jew Should Know about Islam, with Atif Khalil

Thur. Dec. 15 14 Kislev7.30 p.m. Stagecraft’s Women’s Minyan

Fri. Dec. 16 15 Kislev5.30 p.m. Pre-Shabbes Nosh

Sat. Dec. 17 16 Kislev9 a.m. Torah Study7.30 p.m. Stagecraft’s Women’s Minyan

Sun. Dec. 18 17 Kislev2.30 p.m. Stagecraft’s Women’s Minyan

Mon. Dec. 19 18 Kislev12 p.m. Seniors’ Chanukah Party

Tue. Dec. 20 19 Kislev11 a.m. Advanced Hebrew

Wed. Dec. 21 20 Kislev9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel

Fri. Dec. 23 22 Kislev5.30 p.m. Pre-Shabbes Nosh


Fri. Dec. 30 29 Kislev5.30 p.m. Chanukah Celebration and Kabbalat Shabbat7 p.m. Oneg Shabbat


Tue. Jan. 3 3 Tevet11 a.m. Advanced Hebrew

Wed. Jan. 4 4 Tevet9.30 a.m. Sisterhood Torah Study11 a.m. The Yiddish Novel

Fri. Jan. 6 6 Tevet5.30 p.m. Pre-Shabbes Nosh6 p.m. Tot Shabbat Service and Dinner


1950 Bathurst StreetToronto, ON M5P 3K9

Canada PostPublications Mail

Sales Agreement No. 40063407

a new outreach program

Rabbi Yael Splansky will lead an interactive, text-based monthly discussion as part of an outreach initiative. Enjoy the company of women who span the generations, while studying what makes each month of the Jewish calendar unique. Celebrate Rosh Chodesh, which, according to tradition, was God’s gift to women. Dessert and coffee will be served. Bring a friend.

Kislev – Thur. Dec. 1, 2005Shevat – Mon. Jan 30, 2006Adar – Tue. Feb. 28, 2006Nisan – Wed. Mar. 29, 2006Iyar – Thur. Apr. 27, 2006Sivan – Mon. May 29, 2006

Rabbi Yael SplanskyMiles Nadal Jewish Community Centre (Bloor and Spadina), at 8 p.m.

Rosh Chodesh Celebration and StudyRosh Chodesh Celebration and Study

The Last Wordby Rabbi Yael Splansky

Get out the vote

Theodor Herzl called for the fi rst gathering of the World Zionist Organization (WZO) in Basel, Switzerland in 1897 “to obtain for

the Jewish People a publicly recognized, legally secured home in Palestine.” Since that goal was achieved, the World Zionist Congress is held every few years to infl u-ence the agenda for Israel and the Jewish world. The 35th Congress is set for June 2006 in Jerusalem, where hundreds of millions of dollars will be allocated, and leadership for the Jewish Agency, United Jewish Appeal and Jewish National Fund among others, will be determined. Even if you cannot attend in person, your voice

can be heard by casting your ballot now.The young Reform/Progressive Move-

ment in Israel is blossoming. It is thrilling to see how, now with home-grown rabbis to build up Progressive congregations, more and more Israelis are fi nding their way to a Jewish expression that is both se-rious and modern. Thousands of so-called secular Israelis are now being introduced to a Judaism that gives voice to their desire to carry on the traditions of generations past through ritual, prayer and sacred learning they never knew possible. Voting in the WZO elections is one of the best ways for a Diaspora Jew to have an impact on the kind of Jewish State that Israel is becoming.

Your vote will help ensure that Progres-sive Judaism continues to fl ourish in Israel and throughout the Diaspora, through the training of rabbis and educators, the building of schools and synagogues and the strengthening of the Israel Religious

Action Center, which advocates in the courts for the religious rights of the citi-zens of Israel.

How can you vote?You are eligible to vote if:• You are Jewish, at least 18 years of

age by June 2006, and a permanent resident of Canada; and

• You are a member of ARZA Canada, or you become a member by Dec. 31, 2005. A single membership is $18, family membership is $36 and student membership is $5.To cast your vote, please go to

www.VoteReformJudaismCanada.com, or pick up a form at the Temple.

Let this Congress refl ect your visionfor the Jewish State. Let your vote speak for your passionate concerns for our homeland in Israel and our People throughout the Diaspora.

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