BulletinDecember 2015

Holy Blossom TEmPlE

hb online

You(th). Here. Always.

Making HBT Your Home

Fr iday, D ecember 11,2015

I ntergenerational Chanukah Party

4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. • Nosh on Latk es and Sufganiyot• Spin the dreidel• Create Chanuk ah craf ts • Dance to Oozak azoo • Join us as we l ight our communal menorahPlease let us k now if you plan to attend by

Tuesday, December 8, 2015 to Elana Fehler

efehler @holy blossom. org or 416. 789. 3291, ex t. 532.

Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 p.m.Neshama Car lebach and Josh Nelson join Cantor Maissner on the bimah of our main sanctuar y for a joyous Fr iday night ser vice.The music we sing each week is deeply par t of who Josh and Neshama are.Come and hear them br ing it to l i fe!

Seni ors/Mondays at t he Templ e Chanukah Par t yMonday, December 14, 2015

(the 8th day of Chanuk ah) 12:30 p.m. . Phi l ip Smith Hal lCost: $5 for Temple member s, $7 for non-member sLunch and a musical program with Cantor Maissner and Lindi R iver s , accompanied by Nadia Adler.

C H A N U K A H AT H B T

Come and hear them br ing it to l i fe!

Shabbat MorningSaturday, December 12, 2015 Torah Study : 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.A leading voice of the Israel i Movement for Progressive Judaism, R abbi Nir B ar k in, wil l teach.

Shabbat Mor ning S er vices: 10:30 a.m.S er vices wil l include a ser monette del ivered by R abbi Er ic Yoff ie, the immediate Past President of the Union for R efor m Judaism.

3

Holy Blossom

TEmPlE

An Excerpt from Senior Rabbi’s Address 4 Young Professionals Moving Forward 5 Youth Engagement Through Renewal 6 We Day 7

From Our Shinshinim 8

The Shinshin Experience 9

Holy Blossom - Our Home Away from Home 10

HAPSTY: Unlocking Community 11

Early Childhood Centre 12

Our Grade 6 Retreat 13 Holy Blossom Palooza 14

Our Congregational Family 15

Thank You to Our Congregational Appeal Donors 18

Welcome to our New Members 20

conTEnTs

Bulletin8

6

Want to share a comment about the Bulletin? Email Robert Carnevale at rcarnevale@holyblossom.org.

10

13

12

Holy Blossom Temple

A year ago I received an unexpected call, an invitation to lead Shabbat services for 5,000 people at the

next Biennial Convention of the Union for Reform Judaism. I understood the message sent by way of that invitation -- “Holy Blossom Temple is back in business.” Rabbi Rick Jacobs and his leadership team wanted to send a message to all of us here, saying: “We see what your congregation is up to and we want to acknowledge that the Reform Movement and the Jewish People, is strengthened by it.” Two short weeks ago representatives of our leadership – some 30 strong – traveled to Orlando for the Biennial. Wherever I went, people stopped to say: “Holy Blossom is everywhere.” And I’d say: “Yes! And we’re doing great.”

Renewed StrengthYou know it has been a very trying year for me personally. Thank God, I am doing well. I finished my treatment before Simchat Torah, my energy is steadily returning, and my doctors say: “Go and live your life.” So that’s what I’m doing. There is regular maintenance and up-keep, of course, but forward is the direction I’m facing. I mention it, first, because I know you care and wonder and I thank you for that. Please continue to keep me in your private prayers; they seem to be working. And I mention it also because when I look back on this year, it must be noted that despite my illness, it has been a great year for Holy Blossom Temple. This speaks volumes about the health of our congregation. We have strong leadership -- and I mention Joan Garson in particular. We are a synagogue community united. There is good will and good momentum to carry us forward. Make no mistake; this is not simple inertia. This does not “just happen.” There is drive and determination, deliberate decision after deliberate decision for when to be discriminating and when to be daring. This is how we advance.

The Source of our StrengthWe are likely living at a pivot point in Jewish history. We need to study it well as we prepare our space and spirit for the coming generations. I once heard Professor Jonathan Sarna, our finest commentator on American Jewish history, speak about Millennials. He teaches that the outlook of those in their 20s and 30s has been shaped and battered by two central

events: September 11, 2001 and the economic collapse of 2008. Millennials tend to be suspicious of big institutions, including big Jewish institutions, because they have watched too many collapse before their very eyes.

I think about them a lot and ask what Holy Blossom Temple must become in order to create a Jewish home with and for them. Those of us who grew up in an earlier era were led to believe that institutions were strong and individuals were weak or at least vulnerable. But it turns out that institutions can be fragile and individuals are strong. We have seen that ourselves here at HBT. The cracks in the walls can give way to rain, but institutions like ours are as strong as the individuals who make them. And that is why HBT is a fortress! Make no mistake. Our strength is not in the grand scale of our building; it is not even in our great numbers. It is because of the work, the wisdom, and the WILL of the people who make up this Kehillah Kedoshah, this sacred congregation.

We are strong in different ways. Some study Torah and are committed to life-long learning. Some are teachers in our schools. Some have signed their names on the line to sponsor a Syrian Refugee family of five. Some create a warm shelter for our weekly Out of the Cold guests. Some are shiva service leaders, who bring such comfort to our mourners. Some are donors who give a little or a lot, but always with clarity that their contribution sustains the Jewish People – present tense and future. Some raise their voices in prayer with our Temple Singers and in turn teach the rest of us to draw nearer to God.I’d like to show Millennials – not tell, but show your children and grandchildren – that a synagogue community is as strong as the individuals who commit to it. And that is why Holy Blossom’s strength is deep and wide.

“Let the Variety of Productivity be for Goodness”The world is a dangerous place today. We all feel it. We wonder and worry what will be. A synagogue is a rare and precious place where we can find sanctuary. Yes, sanctuary in prayer and sacred study, but also sanctuary in the unique relationships that form over a sacred task, a sacred moment. Two strangers can meet at Mondays @ the Temple, our weekly program for seniors, and literally sustain one another. Two

Rabbi Yael Splanskyysplansky@holyblossom.org

An Excerpt from Senior Rabbi’s Address Holy Blossom Temple’s Annual General Meeting November 2015/Kislev 5776

4

Joan GarsonPresident

president@holyblossom.org

5

Bulletin • December 2015

As the youth of Holy Blossom become Young Professionals, they are creating new kinds of connections

with our Congregation and the wider community.

This age cohort, from approximately 22 to beyond 30, has been a particular focus of attention for lay and professional leadership over the last year; this focus will continue. A new membership model, with nominal dues to age 30, has been developed. Email and Facebook groups have been established and are growing. A young professional, Angie Shiffman, has been hired as a part-time contact person devoted to this group; she is always ready for coffee with its members and prospective members, and has been successful in beginning to build connections. Rabbi Helfman has a particular responsibility for this age group and he is deeply engaged.

Leadership of the Young Professional group met recently with the Executive and Senior Staff of Temple. Avram Musafija and Zach Roher demonstrated to us their deep personal commitment to growing this group and its ties to Holy Blossom, while enabling their work for tikkun olam with a range of activities. Through social media, meetings and events, both within the Holy Blossom community and with other congregations, and with members and non-members, they and their fellow Young Professionals are working to make this group grow and thrive.

At the same time, as Rabbi Helfman explains, our community should be aware and very proud that members of the Holy Blossom Young Professional age group provide leadership to many other young professional groups throughout the city,

from hospitals to community service organizations. Holy Blossom’s own Young Professionals are delighted to partner in events with these other young professional organizations. This helps to ensure these events are successful, while providing to that Holy Blossom’s Young Professionals the opportunity to experience this wide range of offerings within the frame of Holy Blossom. Members of our Young Professional group are independently developing their own models as well, beginning with a group trip to Israel to investigate hi-tech in Tel Aviv.

As Avram explained to our leadership, our renewed building will enhance the experience of Young Professionals by provided many spaces they can utilize, from kitchens to meeting rooms. And the extensive tikkun olam activities in our Congregation’s life will, we hope, be enriched by the participation of this cohort. Avram and Zack’s meeting with us was inspiring, both because of their commitment to the success of the Young Professionals, and their commitment to our Congregation.

What is the role of our Congregation with this group, so critical to maintaining the ongoing connection of young people with our community into their futures and ours? Our task is to empower: by providing resources of staff and rabbinic leadership, funding as required, spaces to be used, and then, by letting them find their own way forward. Our Board Executive has encouraged the leadership of this group to keep in touch with us, to ask us when they need us, whether it is to help in finding mentors in a mentorship program, or to link to other groups or communities. We commit to providing our ongoing support to them. We are thrilled that they are with us and we share with the entire Congregation a heartfelt wish for their success.

Young Professionals Moving Forward

congregants – one, a 20-something entrepreneur, just starting out and the other, an established and experienced professional, can be matched through our mentorship program and each can find new meaning and purpose.

The written departmental reports before you are impressive. What you are about to hear from our Temple President Joan Garson and from the Chair of our Renewal Project, Tom Friedland, is ambitious and admirable. But please understand that the mitzvot each of us pursues day in and day out, the sacred tasks each of us carries also give report to our

collective strength.

I’ll conclude with a prayer for our sacred work. Birkat HaShanim. The Prayer for the Years.

Bless us, Eternal God. Let this year and all the variety of its productivity be for goodness; and bestow blessing upon the face of all the earth. Satisfy us with Your bounty and bless our year as the good years of days gone by.

Baruch Atah Adonai, M’vareich HaShanim.Praised are You, O God, who blesses the years

Bui lding youth Engagement through Renewal

6

Holy Blossom Temple

through Renewal through Renewal through Renewal through Renewal through Renewal through Renewal

6

We’ve always described our Renewal Project as a generation to generation (l’dor v’dor) kind of undertaking, ensuring HBT remains strong and vital for our children, grandchildren, and their future offspring.

And it goes without saying that engaging our youth at Temple is of utmost importance. When we talk of “youth”, we’re really speaking of multiple cohorts – everybody from infants to toddlers, children to pre-teens, teens to young adults and of course, all of their parents too. Deep consideration of the needs of each of these groups has not only affected the creation of programming and events at HBT over the years, it’s also contributed directly to the design-thinking and planning of spaces of our Renewal Project. Especially in what we’ll soon see as we construct the balance of Phase 1 of the Project.

Much more detailed thought has gone into this endeavor than this article can possibly convey in limited space, but here are some of the key features of Phase 1 construction, designed either expressly, or at least in part, to deepen our relationship with youth of all ages.

Let’s start with the most obvious. Our beautiful new and enlarged Family Chapel (located in the former Maurice Eisendrath auditorium), with windows that let light stream in, has been designed with maximum comfort and cohesion in mind – for families attending Kabbalat Shabbat, First Fridays, Little Blossoms, Religious School events – and all of our many other services and activities.

Our new Youth Lounge will have prominence of place on the 3rd floor of our new Holy Blossom, with not only privacy, but also a glass wall that will provide a spectacular overlook of our magnificent light-filled Central Atrium, from the east side. It’s imagined that this lounge will attract students from grades 6 and 7 on up, and will be a place where they can just hang out and chill, discuss issues of the day and shared interests, hop online or even catch up on homework.

And then of course, there’s the Atrium itself. Really the core architectural feature and heartbeat of our renewed campus at 1950 Bathurst St., it has been designed first and foremost to connect people to people, and then people to places, within our synagogue. Here is where parents of children in our religious school can come inside, chat and schmooze as they wait for their kids. With wifi available throughout, kids and teens can

find a comfortable place to sit and surf, talk with friends or do schoolwork.

Our new synagogue café (working title: “Holy Grounds”) is something you told us you wanted in our membership survey, and this will be located on the first floor of the Atrium. The concept is still evolving, but imagine coming to Shul and being able to buy a good cup of coffee and relax with a light snack!Our “Living Wall” is also featured prominently on the first floor of our sunlit Atrium, providing beautiful indoor greenspace for plants to climb while they naturally filter the air. The Living Wall and our LEED Silver Certification, are examples of our Temple’s commitment to Tikkun Olam and to protecting our environment as we build to ensure our future.

Our new Library will also be located on the ground floor, just off the Atrium. With a design-concept driven primarily by an education and youth focus, it features a smaller gathering space that lends itself perfectly to youth group meetings and activities.New School Offices will be located on the north end of the campus on the 2nd floor, visible from the Atrium. Got a question for the Director of Education? Dropping by for an appointment or informational meeting? All HBT educational programs and activities for toddlers, kids and teens, will be co-ordinated from this spot.

But let’s head back down to the first floor of the Atrium for a just a few more features. (Thanks for staying with the tour so far.) Here, all of our youth and their parents will find our new Tzedakah Centre, where we’ll co-ordinate our charitable giving activities. This is where we’ll take donations of warm clothing for our “Out of the Cold” program, previously loved items for families who need a little help, and so much more.

Our Life Cycle room will provide a quiet place for families to meet with our Rabbis and Cantors to discuss life cycle events, like B’nei Mitzvahs. And finally, at the north end of the Atrium, interactive screens will be available for everyone (but especially our youth) to learn more about Holy Blossom Temple … from our programs and activities, to our values to our long and storied history. (Look for an HBT app to evolve from this, soon enough!)

Renewal of Space. Renewal of Spirit. For now and for generations to come.

Bulletin • December 2015

7

WE DAY

article by Amy Lester, Avery Beutel, Jaimie Kerzner

stories@holyblossom.org

We Day is an event for students across Ontario founded by Free the Children, and the Kielburgers. They organized this event to inspire change and raise awareness of issues around the globe. It is also a celebration of the volunteer work, fundraising efforts, and good deeds of students across the city.

It includes many celebrity speakers and performers. There were many inspiration stories and it was a very moving experience to be apart of. Some speakers included Spencer West, Annalise Carr, and Magic Johnson. There were also performances from Shawn Mendes, Carly Rae Jepson, and Hozier.

Being at the ACC, full of students from schools across the GTA was an amazing experience. Holy Blossom had 15 students from grade 6-10 attend We Day.Everyone loved hearing the musical guests perform, but it was also really inspiring to listen to the stories that were shared, and the amazing things that kids our age have been able to accomplish to make change.

We were certainly inspired to try to do things to help make a difference, and HABSTY plans on holding several fundraisers throughout the year to raise funds for Free the Children, and promote some of the amazing work they are doing in the world.

We Day really makes you feel like you can make a difference, and even doing the smallest acts of kindness, like we have learned about throughout our years at Reli-gious School at Holy Blossom, help make the world a better place.

Programs like We Day are great ways to fulfil mitzvot. At Holy Blossom, there are many ways such as YEAH, HABSTY and many volunteer opportunities that you can get involved in and fulfil mitzvot!

Holy Blossom Temple

F rom ou r Sh insh in im

8

Hello everyone!Two months have passed since we arrived, and we are happy to say that with your help we feel a part of this community. Within this short period of time, we have experienced a fair amount of different occasions, events and holidays with the Holy Blossom community.A couple of weeks after our arrival, we were welcomed and greeted by the entire congregation after being honoured with an Aliya during the first High Holiday, Rosh Hashanah. Experiencing the High Holidays away from our families and home in Israel was difficult, but it has certainly been a unique experience. The graceful tunes and melody of the services were astonishing and completely different from the services we knew in Israel, a thing that supported our understanding, that Judaism contains so many different movements that are made of endless shades, and together, they make it whole.

Another way in which we are continuously exposed to both Holy Blossom’s spirit and congregation is through the Shabbat Family Service, which we

take part in. Having the privilege to join the community in the morning prayers helps us to strengthen our connection to the people of Holy Blossom, to the reform movement and helps us to explore our own Jewish identity. In the past few weeks we began to take a greater part in the services, by presenting a ‘Dvar Israel’ – a few minutes within the service in which we talk about a topic of our choice, involving Israel, that is close to our hearts. We certainly feel that the ‘Dvar Israel’ is a great opportunity for us to share our thoughts and feelings with the community, and so we invite you to join us in the Shabbat morning Family Service and listen to our ‘Dvars.

One of the events that showed us how warm and caring the Jewish community in Toronto is, was the event that all of the 24 shinshinim hosted at Lipa Green – The UJA’s Shinshinim Let’s Talk About It event. We invited all of the communities of the hosting Jewish institutions and we were pleased with the high participation rate of Jewish people from all over Toronto.

Throughout the evening we discussed the recent events that have occured in Israel and reviewed some of the difficulties, challenges and experiences of

the situation and our hope for the future. Together with the high attendance and deep discussions, the event was declared a success, and all 24 of us realized

two things: the huge impact that we have on the community, and that the Jewish community of Toronto stands with Israel.

We wanted to share our gratitude with the Holy Blossom community for this great opportunity and for supporting the shinshinim program for so long. Thank you for the

wonderful time we have already had, and for the amazing time we would have in the rest of this year together.

article by Noam Nadler and Bar Cohenstories@holyblossom.org

article by Saul Mandelbaumstories@holyblossom.org

Bulletin • December 2015

9

The Shinshin Experience 2015Our children, Elijah 10 and Gabriel 7, were vibrating with anticipation of the arrival of our shinshin, Bar Cohen, from approximately a week prior. Decorations and signs of welcome were designed, produced and hung. Maps of Israel were consulted and flags were coloured. A stream of questions flowed with pressured speech from their mouths. How old is he? Does he have brothers and sisters? What do they do in Israel? Will he play with us? Is he Jewish? Will he speak Hebrew?

Upon meeting him their initial reserve was dispelled by his smile and once it was established that he had a vast experience with Mario Brothers he was their new object of affection and anointed sibling supreme. We celebrated his 18th birthday shortly after his arrival with ice cream cake, presents and gifts from us and his family. From this point onwards it was fall hikes, family gatherings and adventures. Bar particularly enjoyed the drenching on the Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls refusing the flimsy rain slicker to welcome the torrent of water upon himself.

For us having Bar here has been a fabulous experience. He has become one of our family and has opened up to us with all his warmth, charm and care. Gabriel regularly collapses into his arms in the evening and Elijah discusses his daily travails with his older brother. Israel is no longer for our children an idealized place far off yet filled with conflict as Bar has made the country seem human and close. We have connected with his family and promises of a reciprocal visit have been made that our kids will ensure we keep.

Our Jewish life has also benefitted from the presence of our shinshin. Bar has shared with us our time at Holy Blossom and discussions around the weekly parashat Shabbat have taken on new perspectives. The contrasts and similarities of Jewish life in Israel with our practice have given our children a sense of the wider Jewish world. Their new interest in the history and politics of Israel has manifested in many long deliberations and arguments (could it be any other way?) that will provide them with a base from which they will start their own journeys exploring their Jewish identity.

I believe that both Bar and Israel will also benefit from the cultural exchange that has occurred. Bar spends his days at Leo Baeck, Holy Blossom and CHAT, teaching, presenting and taking courses. He will no doubt bring back to Israel the opinions and views he is experiencing here to share with the people in his circles. Even within the almost three months that he has been here I have seen him change and grow and it is truly our pleasure to be part of this experience.

We wish Bar all the best with his next host family that he is about to join and there is no doubt that we will want to participate once more in this wonderful program.

Holy Blossom Temple

Holy Blossom - Our Home away from Home

10

I have been a teacher at Holy Blossom Temple preschool since I came to Toronto from South Africa in 1987. I am now in my 29th year here and proud to be a teacher at this wonderful preschool.

Over the years, I have taught with many different teachers and each year has been equally great. When I started teaching at Holy Blossom in 1987, Lorraine Sandler was the Supervisor and I learnt a lot from her. She was my

inspiration and mentor. Her love of children and her belief in Jewish Education and values were her passion. Lorraine built our school and the great reputation it has today lives on in large part because of her.

When Pam became our next Supervisor, she carried on the work that Lorraine left. Pam stepped into Lorraine’s shoes and I am proud to say that Pam has filled those shoes and more! Her dedication to the children, families and teachers, and her broad knowledge of child development have inspired us. Her leadership and vision have made Holy Blossom a household name in our community.

Being a teacher at Holy Blossom is not just a job. We, teachers, have become a family. Each one of us has been there for the others as we have celebrated good times,

engagements, weddings, and the births of our children and grandchildren. We’ve been there to support each other through illness and, sadly, even loss within our group or our

families. So when you see us in the hallways and you greet us, know that we are not just teachers, but we are a group of women who have been though a lot together and we all know the

meaning of joy and sadness, and the blessings that children bring to us all.

Know that we do our job with love and dedication. We respect and care for your most precious children and we don’t take this lightly. We feel the responsibility greatly and do our best every day to nurture and teach those in our care. We take pride in our classrooms, our lessons and our impact on your children’s emotional, social and cognitive development. We know our job is a special one and wouldn’t chose any other path

article by Brenda BaskindTeacher

stories@holyblossom.org

Bulletin • December 2015

11

HABSTY:

This past week, I had the privilege of unlocking the door to the HABSTY lounge. My face burst into a smile as I watched my friends and community members spill into the lounge and onto the chairs and couches. Who knew that the simple act of turning a key would unleash new bonds between young members at Holy Blossom?

I was given the lounge key by HABSTY’s past president, Talia Rivers, during our board installation dinner. The dinner was held this past June and it was the first time the entire HABSTY board had the chance to celebrate each other’s roles in the Temple. I remember receiving a hand-made gavel to aid with board meetings along with a calendar to help us plan upcoming events. I am grateful for these great gifts and, along with the rest of HABSTY, I am putting them to good use.

As the official door opener and president of the youth group, I feel a deepening connection to the building and to my fellow HABSTYites. My key-turning duties occur every Monday evening, when we open the door to our teen lounge – an opportunity to be together as Jewish peers and build a strong community. Our lively lounge nights create enough ruach to last the entire week.

Even though our lounge is just one room, to me it is the foundation of youth engagement at Temple. Unlocking community is a great honour that I will always cherish.

Unlocking Community article by Neil Jonatanstories@holyblossom.org

Holy Blossom Temple

12

Shal‘om’ from the Early Childhood Centre at Holy Bloss‘om’

article by Pam HamovitchDirector of the Early Childhood Centre

phamovitch@holyblossom.org

The Early Childhood Centre at Holy Blossom Temple is constantly evolving. From our curriculum and physical space to our increasingly younger population, we are always trying to keep pace with

the ever changing needs of our community along with best practices.

The world in which we live in changes too. Everything is faster, busier, more hectic and rushed. Children have not really changed - only what goes on around them has. It is our job as educators to be present in the

moment, slow down the pace and seize every moment as a learning opportunity. To do this, we must be sure that each child is an active participant in his or her learning. This is how they learn best.

Over the years we have continuously evaluated and improved on the experiences we provide to our youngest students – currently there are 92 of them. We strive to foster in our children a love of learning, Jewish values and to feel a sense of

belonging to a community. We cannot do this alone. Our work also includes families, caregivers and some of the special ‘guests’ we welcome into our school each week. Together we can all grow alongside the children we embrace so dearly.

This year at Holy Bloss‘om’, we added ‘Yoga’ to our week! The mind, body and spirit revolution is most palpable from yoga studios to synagogues. Ten years ago most of our students would not have even known what Yoga

is. Today, it is ubiquitous. The children will not necessarily tell you that Yoga a unique form of exercise that connects the body, mind and spirit. However, they will tell you that Yoga is something a parent does

“in the basement or goes to after dropping his child off at school.’ Our hope in bringing Yoga to our students is to help them become more aware of their bodies leading them to greater confidence and

self-control.

Children find so many things fascinating and interesting, that it is often hard for them to prioritize where to focus their attention. Through movement, breathing and some simple meditation, Yoga teaches children

to focus in a healthy and positive way. The children love Jessica, from Yogabe, and her ‘animal’ poses. When children imitate the movements and sounds of nature, they have a chance to get inside another being and imagine

taking on its qualities.

We also all know that children love to hear music, make noise and be creative. The addition of JStixx and Rhythm Kingdom offer hand drums and other percussion instruments which are easy to use in a group setting. As Rufus of Rhythm Kingdom

states: “When we are able to have fun in an easy and non-judgmental way, we can benefit from the proven stress-reducing and immune system-boosting benefits of recreational music making.” Drumming together allows children to create something

greater than they could do on their own.

May we continue to provide an environment where our children can grow and bloss‘om’.

Bulletin • December 2015

13

On Friday October 16th many of the grade 6 religious school students went on an overnight retreat to YMCA Cedar Glen, in Schomberg Ontario. We hate to admit that we weren’t too excited at first, but it turned out to be an amazing experience for everyone. We had a chance to meet our new classmates and bond with our old ones. When we got there we had a bit of time to check out our rooms, and chat with our roommates before Shabbat dinner. Some highlights of the weekend were: lots of outside activities including getting to climb ropes and let our classmates ballay us. We also learned how to use a compass. Nobody knew what they were doing, and so when we did a nature walk activity we all walked in the wrong directions and had to ask other groups for hints to find our goal.

When we were inside the activities didn’t stop. On Friday we had Shabbat services, and talked about our Jewish goals. On Saturday Rabbi Helfman came up to spend the day with us. He led us in services, and taught us about the history of Reform Judaism. One thing that was really interesting was the Havdallah services on Saturday night before we left. None of us had experienced Havdallah before, and spending it all together made it even more special. Down time was really fun also, however whether it is correct to call it “down time” is debatable. We got to go to the games room and play pool, air hockey, foosball, and catch up with old friends.

We had a lot of amazing teachers and HABSTY members with as on the trip, which made it even that much more exciting. Thank you Debbie, Lisa, Rabbi Helfman, Sari and Sam for the amazing activities that you planned for us. We could have stayed longer but we all needed to get home to catch up with the Jays.

Our Grade 6 Retreat

article by Harriet Hylton and Sasha Steiner

stories@holyblossom.org

Holy Blossom Temple

14

I may have goofed. I named our upcoming Chanukah show ChanukahPalooza. It seemed like the perfect name for a big Chanukah concert — especially with our plan to fill the stage with great Canadian

children’s musicians. But with all the performers now booked, it appears I could more accurately have called it Holy-Blossom-Palooza.

Apparently Holy Blossom is not just an amazing confluence of Jewish space, spirit and community. Turns out, it is also an incubator for some of

the country’s top kids’ entertainers. Check out the line-up for ChanukahPalooza, our young families Chanukah concert

coming December 6th to City Playhouse in Thornhill:Mark “Marky” Weinstock

Young children and parents at HBT know Mark as the kind face and sweet musical sound of

Little Blossoms, Hot Shot Shabbat and more. But many don’t know he is an award winning songwriter,

a physician, and a respected educator. Mark’s music has brought him across North America and overseas – singing with children in the Himalayas, the

jungles of Australia, Cambodian orphanages, and interfaith communities in Jerusalem.

OozakazooAnyone who has attended HBT’s own Chanukah Parties in the last few years will instantly know the name Oozakazoo, made up of Joshuah Skye Engel and Noah Aiken-Klar. When not singing at Holy Blossom, the members of Oozakazoo have been busy becoming a sensation in the kids’ music world. Their 2013 CD “Young Folk Rock” was produced by music legend Ken Whiteley and has garnered praise and recognition from the top of the industry including the Parent’s Choice Award.

Marlowe & the MiXYears of Little Blossoms alumni know Marlowe’s upbeat brand of music from many Friday mornings of song, movement, challah, juice and fun. That same Marlowe has now gone on to win a Juno nomination for best children’s album of the year for her CD “One Dance Floor”. Marlowe has become known for her ability to craft great pop tunes which get families dancing,

but with lyrics that are 100% kid friendly.

Judy & DavidAlso known as Judy and yours truly. And I am only too happy to gush about my connection to our wonderful shul and all it has given me.

HB has been my musical and Jewish home since long before there was a Judy & David. It was HBT that welcomed our family with open arms when we first moved to Canada in 1978. It was HBT where I first began to play guitar in youth group and teach in the religious school. It was at HBT where I began to write some of my first songs, often accompanied by Mr. Holy Blossom, himself, Mike Morgulis. A decade later, it was at HBT that I was teaching music in the Activity Room and I met a gorgeous religious school teacher named Judy Adelman. I called her up as a volunteer to help lead a song with me for the kids. Needless to say, a little Holy Blossom magic happened and we would continue making kids music together to this day.

Holy-Blossom-Paloozaarticle by David Gershon

Holy Blossom Music Specialist, Teacher, and Service Leader

stories@holyblossom.org

Bulletin • December 2015

15

Congregational FamilyWelcome to Our

n Sari Goldman & Steven Davidson, on the birth of a son Philip Benjamin Davidson and brother to Liam and Ainsley. Proud grandparents are Fran & Bernie Goldman; and Roz & Moishe Davidson.

n Laura Fogler & Hartley Blumenfeld on the birth of a son, Ryan Mendy Blumenfeld. Proud grandparents are Barbara & Gary Fogler; Andrea Shapiro Lipstein & Leonard Lipstein; Charles Blumenfeld. Proud great grandparents Gladys & Lloyd

Fogler, Claire Blumenfeld and Sam Shapiro.

n Irene & Bernard Frolic on the birth of a granddaughter, Julia Mia Frolic. Proud parents are Miriam Malc & Daniel Frolic and sister to Charlie. Other proud grandparents are Ann Malc and Jack Malc.

n Marlene & Max Orenbach on the birth of a granddaughter, Joey Chase Carson. Proud parents are Jaimie & Daniel Cason. Other proud grandparents are Lezley & Alan Carson. Proud great grandmothers

are Reva Carson; Renee Goldhar; Fay Lusthause.

n Sharon & Shelley Miller, on the birth of a grandson, Noah Clark Miller. Proud parents are Esther Connors & Joshua Miller. Other proud grandparents are Helen Gurofsky & Allan Connors. Proud great grandmother is Clara Miller.

n Eva & Mark Madras, on the birth of a granddaughter, Lyla Brooke Madras. Proud parents are Tracey Hendler & Jonathan Madras. Other proud grandparents are Judy

& Doug Hendler. Proud great grandmothers are Agnes Chuisolo; Brauna Hendler.

n Happy Iscove and Mel Iscove are proud to announce the birth of their granddaughter, Lily Eve Ben-Yakov. Proud parents are Debra Iscove and Max Ben-Yakov. Other proud grandparents are Natella and Daniel Ben-Yakov (Montreal). Delighted great grandfather is Seymour Locketz. (Minneapolis).

Births

n Rebecca Krichker, daughter of Leigh Chalmers & Victor Krichker – Saturday, January 16, 2016

n Jaryd Diamond,, son of Nisa Krongold-Diamond & Matthew Diamond – Saturday, January 23, 2016

n Max Valihora, son of Brianna & Michael Valihora – Saturday, January 16, 2016

n Rachel Starkman, daughter of Jennifer Shulman and Rob Starkman – Saturday, March 5, 2016

B’nei Mitzvah

n Noa Offman, daughter of Randi Rose & Craig Offman – March 2016 in Israel

Judy and I began singing together for services and events at Holy Blossom. HBT helped fill my schedule with enough singing that I could quit my “day job” and focus on launching “Judy & David”. Eighteen recordings, one Juno award, and many concert tours later, it was actually at HBT Family Services where we met Martin Markle who would go on to produce our current JiggiJump TV series on Kids’ CBC.

In fact, ChanukahPalooza is so steeped in Holy Blossom people, you’re probably wondering why it is at the City Playhouse in Thornhill and not at Temple – or at least in a downtown theatre. Actually, if you are Rabbi Helfman, you haven’t stopped ribbing me about that. And there is no truth to the rumours that it is my secret mission to make hundreds of HBT members drive

up to Thornhill at least once per year (since I drive the opposite direction hundreds of times per year). Actually, it’s a small, beautiful theatre with lots of free, easy parking that is the perfect size for a family Chanukah concert. And did I mention, there is lots of free, easy parking?

ChanukahPalooza will have two shows on December 6, one at 10:30 and one at 3:30. Holy Blossom families are encouraged to come to the 3:30 show to be together for this fun event.For more information and to reserve your seats online visit ChanukahPalooza.com or call the City Playhouse box office at 905.303.2000.

Hope to see you there!

n Robin Blumenkranz, daughter of Karen Garmaise and Israel Blumenkranz to Ian Greenberg, son of Ilene and Larry Greenberg who will be married in February 2016.

n Sarah Davis, daughter of Ken & Lynda Davis, to Andrew Soberman, son of Allan Soberman and Jacqui Latter. A spring wedding is planned.

n Chase Ison son of Jordan & Yvette Ison, and DJ Loman & Troy Ellis to Marissa Daniels daughter of Robin Daniels and Bob and Shawna Daniels who were recently engaged. Proud Grandparents of Bernie & Joan Shapiro.

n Lindsay Klein, daughter of Judy & Jerry Klein, to Jared Binstock, son of Lesley Binstock Offman & Allan Offman and the late Morley Binstock,

who were married in September 2015. Proud grandparents are Carol Freedman, Rivka Klein and Lorna Gross.

n Ian Rosen, son of Susan Jackson and Larry Rosen to Kate Chazan, daughter of Joan Shnier and Jake Chazan. The wedding is planned for November 2016

Engagements & Weddings

We thank our generous donors

Bikur Cholim FundHenry Bigio, Yahrzeit: Matilda Bigio

The Bernard, Carol & Samuel Braun Memorial FundMarcia Cohen, In Honour: Aaron CohenEugene Dreisman, In Memory: Marcia & Kenneth Cohen and Family

Joshua & Henrietta Chesnie Temple Endowment FundGeneral Donation: Henrietta ChesnieCyril Hersh, In Memory: Henrietta ChesnieDoreen & Joe Kronick, In Honour: Henrietta ChesnieDiana Lass, In Memory: Henrietta Chesnie

Community Engagement FundGail & Barry Silver, In Honour: Judy & Jack Winberg

Sami and James Cooper Youth Award FundJudge Bonnie Croll, In Appreciation: Sami & Jimmy CooperRonnie Goldstein, In Memory: Sami & James CooperAlma & Harvey Rosen, In Honour: Sami & James Cooper

Earl and Marilyn Danson Farber Endowment FundJane & Frank Tizel, In Honour: Mary Ann & Dan Rothstein

Jean Fine Seniors FundDorothy Garten, In Memory: Sheila

Bacher; Marilyn Patchen HahnSybil & Jack Geller, In Memory: Daisy JacobsPeggy M.A. Richter, In Honour: Mondays @ the TempleSteve Rivers, In Memory: Daisy JacobsDiane Silver Hassell, In Memory: Gail & Gary Goodman

Holy Blossom Adult Education FundShirley Gross, In Memory: Gail & Gary GoodmanDiane Silver Hassell, In Memory: Toby & Gordon Ciglen

Holy Blossom Temple FoundationGeneral Donation: Claudia Blumberger & Sidney Troister and Family; Jordanna & Earl Lipson and Family; Nancy Ruth; Brenda Spiegler & Mark S. Anshan; Esther & Marvin Tile; Tatiana ZdybMortimer Goodman, Yahrzeit: Claire GoodmanCyril Hersh, In Memory: Corinne Black, Richard Vroomon and Family; Terrie & Doug Davidson; Ruth & Henry Gillson and Family; Lydia & Jeff Goldfarb and Family; Bernice Goren and Family; Joyce & Alan Hersh; Marilyn & Dr. Don McGregor; PGA Canada; Jocelyne Salem; Larry Sax and Family; Carrie Schipper Torgov and Family; Colin Stevenson; Rhonda Wilansky & Israel Ben-Ishai and FamilyRuss Joseph, In Honour: Freya & Lewis WaselAlberto Quiroz, In Honour: Susan &

James Bookbinder; The Lang FamilyEthel Sapera, In Memory: Rachel & David BaronSusie Schafer & David Frank, In Honour: Denise Gordon, Dennis Chow and Family; Loren & Mark RothMary Seldon, In Honour: Loren & Mark RothHelena Weinwurm, In Memory: Myrna Sandler

Holy Blossom Temple Renewal ProjectGeneral Donation: Jane & Robert Herman; Ronna Rubin & Phil Smith; Annalee & Brian Schnurr; Judy & Jack WinbergPam & Michael Albert, In Honour: Judy & Jack Winberg and FamilyJerome Diamond, In Memory: Nancy RuthNancy Fishman, In Memory: Etta Ginsberg McEwanRandi & Alan Garfinkel, In Honour: Carmen & Emil HorvathRonnie Goldstein, In Memory: JoAnn & Stanley L. GoldHenriette Helfman, In Honour: Nancy RuthRabbi Jordan Helfman, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwanCyril Hersh, In Memory: Holly & Sohn Laskin and Family; Erin O’ConnorHoly Blossom Temple Outgoing Board Members, In Appreciation: Joan GarsonHoly Blossom Temple Staff & Clergy, In Honour: Joan Garson &

David BaskinJoy Rosen, In Honour: Joan Garson & David BaskinEli Shore & Jascha Jabes, In Honour: Joan Garson & David BaskinHarry Smith, Yahrzeit: Ronna Rubin & Phil SmithAnne Sniderman, In Memory: Wendy & Elliott Eisen; JoAnn & Stanley L. GoldRabbi Yael Splansky, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwan; Miriam & Larry TurkishDorothy Stone, In Memory: Susan & Barry BordenMichael Weinstein, In Memory: Susan & Barry Borden

Isenberg Family Endowment FundAnnette Fogle, In Memory: David Waisberg

Jacob’s Tower FundDr. Karen Barrett, In Memory: Marilyn Shesko & David HertzmanFlorence Hertzman, In Honour: Carol Abugov; Marilyn Shesko & David Hertzman; Linda Slotin & Jonathan Fisher; Elina Tarasson & Eban BayefskyPaul Newman, In Memory: Marilyn Shesko & David HertzmanPhilip Shesko, Yahrzeit: Marilyn SheskoEstelle Zaldin, In Memory: Marilyn Shesko & David Hertzman

Joan Kerbel Leadership Development FundBrenda Fishauf, In Memory: Jan & Robert Simonsky and Family

In Memoriam.. n Edith Altschuler, mother of Kenneth Altschuler

and Amnon Altschulern Miriam Berger, mother of Tobye Sennet,

Harvey Berger and Carole Assayav, sister of Elsa Tooberman and Ruth Berman

n Alan Cherry, father of Wendy Mendelbaum, Debbie Cherry and Lisa Cherry, brother of Joy Cherry Weinberg and Linda Cherry Soudack

n Jerome Diamond, father of Dr. Sara Diamond and Larry Diamond; step-father of Carla Silver

n Nancy Fishman, mother of Dr. Brian Fishman and Larry Fishman

n Sydney Fogel, father of Judy Zeilig and Fogel Fogel n Ronald (Ronnie) Goldstein, husband of Bonnie

Goldstein; father of Lesley Reuben, Stephen Goldstein and Michael Goldstein

n Haya Grosman, mother of Hanna Gordon and Sharon Grosman; sister of Nehamah Yoeli

n Barry Harris, father of Maggie Harris, brother of John Harris and Paul Harris

n Cyril Hersh, husband of Esther Hersh; father of Suzanne Hersh and Stacey Hersh

n Diana Lass, wife of Harold Lass; mother of Jenny Lass

n Fela Leader, mother of Rolland Leader and Arthur Leader

n Leslie Newman, sister of Cathy Newman and Paul Newman

n Ronnie Olsberg, brother of Mel Olsberg, father of Maurice Olsberg, Simone Olsberg, and David Olsberg

n Tillie Paulin, mother of Frances Biback, Vivian Ruby and Richard Paulin

n Rose Roth, mother of Esther Burnett and Neal Roth

n Saundra Sherman, wife of Henry Sherman; sister of Ethel Lamster

n Evelyn Shulman, mother of Maureen Kaell n Diane Silver Hassell, wife of Christopher Hassell;

mother of Michael Silver and Seth Silver; sister of Barry Goldblatt

n Anne Sniderman, mother of Kenneth Sniderman, Barry Sniderman and Nancy Fried

n Elliott Snitman, husband of Dr. Lisa Rosenerg; father of Aryeh Snitman and Jacob Snitman; son of Harry Snitman; brother of Janine Grossman and Stephen Snitman

n Richard Sommers, husband of Linda Sommers; father of Robin Sommers and Geoffrey Sommers; brother of Frank Sommers

n Joseph Soren, father of Gary Soren; brother of Kathleen Jacobs

n Marjorie Stark, mother of Isabel Shessel and Helen Partyka

n Dorothy Stone, mother of Gay Lokash and Carolyn Rosenthal

n Sophie Stransman, mother of Janice Long and Alan Stansman

n Michael Weinstein, brother of Shawnee Glickman, Suzie Pustil, Caron Mirrett and Fern Weinstein

The congregation sympathizes with the recently bereaved. We remember:

16

n Elise Rotsztain, daughter of Fay Greenholtz and Michael Rotsztain, and Ian Klesmer, son of Harold and Sandy Klesmer, were married in August 2015.

n Lauren Sterling, daughter of Carole & Jay Sterling to Simon Wolfe, son of Fran & Marty Wolfe. Granddaughter of Bettina Dankner and the late Ralph Dankner and the late Ruth & Sam Sterling. Grandson of the late Rose & Harry Wolfe, and the late Lena & Murray Rothberg.

n Torey Stronell, daughter of Susan and Roger Stronell to Zack Belzberg, son of Lynn and Brent Belzberg who were married in August 2015.

Engagements & Weddings cont.

Holy Blossom Temple

Cyril Hersh, In Memory: The Simonsky FamilyHorace Jatwes, In Honour: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood

Kiddish FundPam Greenstein & Stuart Baltmanin honour of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter Katie BaltmanNaomi & Alan Kriss in honour of the Bar Mitzvah of their son NoahFarah & Martin Perelmuter and family in honour of the Bar Mitzvah of their son Cole

Musical Heritage FundCarol Epstein, Yahrzeit: Fran & Bernie GoldmanMark Goodman, In Honour: Mary SeldonSandy & Andy Schaffer, In Honour: Ruth Ellen & Sheldon GreenwoodDiane Silver Hassell, In Memory: Ellie & Peter LoebelJanie Swartz, In Honour: Ruth Ellen & Sheldon Greenwood

Out of the Cold FundGeneral Donation: Benjamin Hertzman; Jascha Jabes; Mazon CanadaShelly Berenbaum, In Honour: Gail BermanBonnie Croll & Robert Henry, In Honour: Cathy & Lorne GreenbaumKaren Garmaise & Maurice Moss, In Honour: Judy Malkin & Elliott JacobsonCyril Hersh, In Memory: Bonnie Croll & Robert Henry; Marilyn & David GluskinToby Kopman, In Memory: Shelly Berenbaum & Chuck LitmanAlison Licht, In Honour: Marsha & Harry GlicksmanEmile Olsberg, In Memory: Debby VigodaOut of the Cold Volunteers, In Honour: Ann MacPherson & Earl BedermanBernice Penciner, In Honour: Jinni & Joel Carman and Family; Carole & Harvey Kerbel; Barbara & Marvin Miller; Sandy & Jack Miller; Karen & Seymour Pomotov; Rose & Duke Segal; Sheila SmolkinDaniel Penciner, In Honour: Ruth & Gurion HymanElise Rotzstain & Ian Klesmer, In Honour: Fay Greenholtz & Michael RotsztainSaundra Sherman, In Memory: Rena & Bob Bader and Family; Kim & Ben Barankin; Rita Belfer; Beverley Borins; Toby & Gordon Ciglen; Sharon & Mirv Freedman; Lyla & Martin Gelfand; Gail & Gary Goodman; Ruth Green; Daisy Jacobs; Sharon & David Rapoport and Family; Frederick Seepersad; Sheila Smolkin; Harriet & Geray Train and FamilyEvelyn Shulman, In Memory: Debby Vigoda

Prayer Book FundRabbi Jill Borodin, In Honour: Holy Blossom Temple Sisterhood

Project Tikvah FundSelma & Charles Goodfellow, In Memory: Nancy Pollack and Marjorie SchwartzPam & Greg Hamovitch, In Honour: Lynne & Larry Koffman; Ellen TarshisHappy Iscove, In Honour: Joey

Fingold and Family

Rabbis’ Discretionary FundsRabbi Yael Splansky, In Appreciation: Elissa & David L. Fingold; Audrey & Michael MorganRabbi Yael Splansky, In Honour: Carla & Alain Baudot and Family; Ruth & Bob Ehrlich; Karen Fainman and Family; Barbara & Gary Fogler; Anita & Michael Greenstein; Susan Grossman and Family; Deborah Liebow & Ken Snider; The Paice and Paice Lidsky Families; Jane & Russell Rendely and Family; Rosemary & Gary Tile and Family; The Zeller Cooper FamilyRabbi Michael Satz, In Appreciation: Janice Babins; Jeremy Barry; Melinda Barry; Elissa & David L. Fingold; Karen Garmaise & Maurice MossRabbi Michael Satz, In Honour: The Pezim Family; Susan Unger & Dr. Ed Hussman; Natalie & Lenny Waldman; Sandy & Lionel Waldman and FamilyRabbi Jordan Helfman, In Appreciation: Elissa & David L. FingoldRabbi Jordan Helfman, In Honour: Chris Hassell and Family; Henry Rappaport & Michael Burns; Susan & Dr. Mark SagerRabbi John Moscowitz, In Appreciation: Janette & Michael DiamondRabbi John Moscowitz, In Honour: Shelly Berenbaum & Chuck Litman; Susie Schafer & David FrankCantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Appreciation: Elissa & David L. Fingold; The Sapera Family; Susan Unger & Dr. Ed HussmanCantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, In Honour: Etta Ginsberg McEwan; Leslie Binstock Offman & Allan Offman; Jane & Russell Rendely and Family; Rosemary & Gary Tile and FamilyCantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers, In Appreciation: Chris Hassell and Family; Karen Mock and FamilyCantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers, In Honour: Florence Hertzman; Susan & Dr. Mark Sager; The Zeller Cooper FamilySadie Berger, In Memory (Rabbi Michael Satz’s discretionary fund): Helen Berger GamseyAllan Cherry, In Memory (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Terrye & Jack KuperIris Drache, In Honour (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Miriam & Marvin Dryer and FamilyLori Gershon, In Memory (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Karen Fainman & Jason Adelman and FamilyCyril Hersh, In Memory (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Karen Fainman & Jason Adelman and Family; Myrna Freedman; Judy & David Mishkel and FamilyJoseph Hodes, In Honour (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Barbara Thal & Robert HodesHarriette Laing, In Honour (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Rosalie SussmanArthur London, In Memory (Rabbi Jordon Helfman’s discretionary fund): Beverlee LondonArthur London, In Memory (Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner’s discretionary fund): Beverlee London

Yael Scutaru, In Honour (Rabbi Yael Splansky’s discretionary fund): Beth Goldstein & Barry RosenMichael Weinstein, In Memory (Rabbi John Moscowitz’s discretionary fund): Steve PustilMichael Weinstein, In Memory (Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner’s discretionary fund): Steve Pustil

Rabbi Moscowitz 25 Years Book FundRabbi John Moscowitz, In Honour: Judy Nyman & Harvey Mintz

Nancy Ruth Educational FundDiane Silver Hassell, In Memory: Nancy Ruth and Alan Ruth

Shacharit FundDavid Abells, Yahrzeit: Yoel Abells; The Abells FamilyAlbert Abugov, Yahrzeit: Carol Abugov and FamilyErin Belman, In Memory: Noah Belman; Denise Dorfman; Brian Lusthaus; Marlin & Irv MillerBella Bendayan, Yahrzeit: Reina BendayanJacob Bendayan, Yahrzeit: Reina Bendayan & Dan Borrett and FamilyEdward Bien, Yahrzeit: Elissa & David L. FingoldHenry Bigio, Yahrzeit: Matilda BigioEsther Bloch Shesko, Yahrzeit: Marilyn Shesko & David HertzmanAnita Bochner, Yahrzeit: Mary GoldmanSerene Bodor, Yahrzeit: Robert LantosSolomon (Sam) Charach, Yahrzeit: Alice & Ron CharachIrving Cohen, Yahrzeit: Barbara Thal-Hodes & Bob HodesMyrna Crystal, Yahrzeit: Carol Crystal & Jeff Meilach and FamilyAmalia Dan, Yahrzeit: Peter Dan and FamilyJulian Druyan, Yahrzeit: Judy DruyanSydney Ezrin, Yahrzeit: Sharyn Salsberg Ezrin & Hershell EzrinJ. Paul Fingold, Yahrzeit: Elissa & David L. FingoldRobert Fishman, In Honour: Susan & Brian FishmanPenelope Briana Frohman, Yahrzeit: Amanda FrohmanDora Fromovitz, Yahrzeit: Evelyn Gardner and FamilyMyer Fogel, Yahrzeit: Rosie & John Uster and FamilyBetty Gold, Yahrzeit: JoAnn & Stanley L. GoldReuben Gold, Yahrzeit: JoAnn & Stanley L. GoldCharles Goldstein, Yahrzeit: Faigie & Michael GoldsteinLillian Gollom, Yahrzeit: Kaylee MillerNat Gollom, Yahrzeit: Kaylee MillerMark Goodman, In Honour: Glenda Bocknek; Charlotte HaberSid Greenstein, Yahrzeit: Anita & Michael GreensteinSylvia Guberman, Yahrzeit: Judith WilanskyDevy Herlin, Yahrzeit: Sarah Herlin and FamilyBelle Hodes, Yahrzeit: Barbara Thal Hodes & Robert HodesMax Hoffman, Yahrzeit: Bernice Penciner and FamilyHappy Iscove, In Honour: Barbara Grossman

Dr. Martin Kazdan, In Memory: Marion Kazdan and FamilyIrene Klein, Yahrzeit: Vera MandelJack Kugelmass, In Honour: Glenda Bocknek; Charlotte HaberRita Libman, Yahrzeit: Judy & Jack WinbergDiana & Alex Lipson, Yahrzeit: Barbara Cooper and John LipsonBessie Massey, Yahrzeit: Millie & Sheldon GoldsteinSelig Patchen, Yahrzeit: Marilyn Patchen HahnHarry Penciner, Yahrzeit: Bernice Penciner and FamilySamuel David Pollack, Yahrzeit: The Pollack FamilyEthel Sapera, Yahrzeit: Sam Sapera, Matthew Sapera, Terri Sapera and FamiliesRuth Schlossberg, Yahrzeit: Mark Schlossberg and FamilyDiane Silver Hassell, In Memory: Janice & Larry BabinsIrving Sneidman, Yahrzeit: Faigie & Michael GoldsteinSamuel Sterling, Yahrzeit: The Sterling FamilySophie Toplitsky, Yahrzeit: Ida TuggAdeline Wagman, Yahrzeit: Joel WagmanKathy Zalvin, Yahrzeit: Steve Zalvin and Family

Syrian Refugee ReliefHenriette Isadora Helfman, In Honour: Hope & Cantor Benjamin Maissner; Henry Rappaport & Michael Burns and FamilyDr. Jemma & Rabbi Jordan Helfman and Family, In Honour: Richard Banks; Carla & Alain Baudot and Family; Lisa & Aaron Baumal and Family; Sherry Cantor & Jeff Freedman and Family; Barbara & Edward Cherkinsky Susan & Brian Fishman; Cynthia Good & Dan Aronchick; Kathy & Maurice Green; Holy Blossom Temple Early Childhood Centre Staff; Ellen Karabanow; Natalie & Jeff Kirsh and Family; Arlene & Jeffrey Laderman; Ora & Michael Leese and Family; Erin O’Connor; Shoshana Paice; Eric Petersiel; Jocelyne Salem; Mary Seldon; Angie & Adam Shiffman; Sheila Smolkin; June & Byron Sonberg; Elayne & Dan Steinhardt; Arieh & Vallry Waldman; The Warner/Findlay Families; Susan & Marc Webb; Donna & Mark Weinstock; Judy & Jack Winberg and Family; The Zalvin Family

Youth Awards FundCyril Hersh, In Memory: Sarah & Douglas SteinbergEllen Karabanow, In Honour: The Birthday Girls

Youth Engagement FundDr. Terry Axelrod, In Honour: Hope & Cantor Benjamin MaissnerSheila & Bob Master, In Honour: Judy & Jack Winberg and FamilyAlberto Quiroz, In Honour: Isabel Freeman; Miriam Frohlinger; Ksenija Teodorovic; Arieh & Vallry WaldmanDiane Silver Hassell, In Memory: Barry Goldblatt and Family

17

Bulletin • December 2015

18

Guardian David Baskin & Joan GarsonWendy & Elliott EisenCarole & Bernie Zucker and Family

Pillar Frances & Lawrence BloombergLloyd & Gladys FoglerLarry Rosen & Susan JacksonJanis RotmanThe Rotman Family Foundation & Sandra RotmanKen Rotman & Amy KaiserGerald Schwartz & Heather Reisman

Benefactor Joy & Barry GalesRobert LantosGaye & Andrew Stein

Fellow Earl Bederman & Ann MacPhersonJacqueline & Tom FriedlandMary Seldon

Patron Harvey S. BordenThe Cummings FamilyMichael & Dimitra Davidson and FamilyPhyllis & Jeff DenaburgMichael & Janette DiamondHelena & David FineLois & George FineThe Leibow-Snider FamilyEarl & Jordanna LipsonHenry Liss and FamilyLorraine & Donald LoebThe Mirvish FamilyStephen & Suzie PustilLisa Ritchie & David CarrollAvra Rosen & Mark GoodmanJim Shenkman & Denise ZarnHelen Sinclair & Paul CantorCary H. Solomon and FamilyRabbi Yael Splansky & Dr. Adam Sol and FamilyHarvey Tanzer & Cheryl Goldhart and FamilyTrinity Plastic Products Inc.Rose WolfeThe Yakobson FamilyAnonymous

SponsorLisa & Aaron BaumalDebra & Barry CampbellThe Caplan FamilyDrs. Alice & Ron CharachGeorge & Susan CohonGreg Coleman & Jill WitkinThe Crawford-Ritchie FamilyCarey Diamond & Tina UrmanThe Ehrlich FamilyAngela & David FeldmanGary & Barbara FoglerFran & Bernie GoldmanMarvin & Diana GoodmanMr. & Mrs. Robert HermanS. Jennifer HunterSheldon Inwentash, Lynn Factor, Nicole, Raquel & JaksonJan & Russ Joseph

John B. Laskin & Holly Goren LaskinRena Mendelson & Allan DetskyCarolin & Jerry MichaelsLesley & Ron MillerKaren Minden & Harvey SchipperAllan & Lesley OffmanDr. Stephen PearlAnn & Gary PosenRhonda Richer & Tim LipaLeslie & Darren RichmondJack & Judith RoseNancy RuthJocelyne Salem and FamilyJudy & Sam SaperaBrenda & Fred SaundersJulia & Michael SaxAlison & Alan SchwartzMichael & Jackie Shulman and FamilyJudy SimmondsLise & Luke SklarSheila SmolkinBrenda Spiegler & Mark S. AnshanCarole & Jay SterlingFrancie & Martin StormEsther & Marvin TileLionel & Sandy WaldmanJack & Judy WinbergMilton WinbergElizabeth Wolfe & Paul SchnierEsther Zeller Cooper & Morris CooperJoyce & Fred ZemansIlana Zylberman Dembo & Ron DemboAnonymous x7

Leader Jonathan Ain & Sam GershkovichJean Anderson & Randall FriedlandMichael & Barbara BakerJim & Susan BookbinderBarry & Susan BordenElen, Howard, Bryan and Jennifer BrodieElizabeth & Reuben BromsteinRichard & Sara CharneyMichael & Phyllis CincinatusCharles & Joy CohenVictor & Maxine DrevnigRobert & Ruth EhrlichElissa & David L. FingoldLawrence Freedman & Joy RosenAllan & Sondra GotliebMurray Hart & Jill KaminSharon HermanFlorence HertzmanSteve Hurowitz & Diane OsakThe Karlinsky/Anderson FamilyHarriette LaingDavid & Susan Linds and FamilyBen & Jill LustigTed Margel & Ilyse LustigMs Sharon Neiss & Dr. Gordon ArbessIlan Philosophe & Katrina VioletisHarvin & Rachel PitchTeresa & Alberto QuirozDebbie Redner & Benjamin ApplebaumBeth & Eric RoherCheryl Rosen & Daniel DruckerMichael Rotsztain & Fay GreenholtzRonna Rubin & Philip SmithMarvin & Victoria SadowskiSharyn Salsberg Ezrin & Hershell Ezrin

Thank you ...to our Holy Blossom Congregational Appeal Donors!We are tremendously grateful to all of our members listed below who have made contributions above and beyond regular membership dues.

Did you know that nearly 40% of Temple members are unable to pay full fees due strains on household finances? Your generosity helps ensure Holy Blossom remains a vibrant and vital full service congregation, where everyone can participate with dignity and joy, regardless of financial circumstances.

Of course, it’s never too late to make your annual gift. If you haven’t already, please consider donating today by contacting Cindy Zimmer, our Foundation Manager (ext. 229) to make your gift.

Holy Blossom. Thanks to our donors

life can blossom here.

18

Holy Blossom Temple

Bulletin • December 2014

Lili & Michael ShainDr. & Mrs. George SteinerMartin SterlingFloyd & Barbara SternDiane & Jonathan WilsonJudy Winberg & Andy PollackDaniel & Michelle WittlinSusan Yack & Eric RumackAnonymous

SupporterPam & Michael AlbertJanice & Larry BabinsJodi & Steven BagerMarvin & Linda BarnettSusan BaskinNaomi BellMr. Ben-Ishai & Dr. WilanskyNeil & Corinne Berinstein and FamilyMichael Bernstein & Nan DasguptaEric Beutel & Deborah SiegelMatilda BigioCorinne Black & Richard VroomanRudy BloomGail & Zel BocknekHarriette BorinsRichard Borins, Sheryl Brodey and FamilyElinor Borsook, Cathi & John FreedmanJudy & Eric BreuerAndrew & Lara BrodkinJason & Jennifer BursteinDr. Charles CassDeborah Chesnie CooperHenrietta ChesnieStephen Chris & Debra Birnbaum and FamilySharon Clavir and FamilyElise & Richard CohenPeter Collins & Kris LangilleBarbara & Richard ConwayStewart Cramer, Raquel Adelstein and FamilyBonnie Croll & Robert HenryCarol Crystal & Jeff MeilachSusan & Peter DanJeff Dicker & Sandi SmithSharon Domb & Stephen ManlyMarvin & Miriam DryerOwen & Nancy DuckmanJoyce EisenArnold & Ricky EnglanderLarry EnkinMaxanne EzerBruce & Jodi Feldman and FamilyJoseph & Helen FeldmannMichael Firestone & Carol Albert-FirestoneAnne FreemanStephen & Jill FremesDeborah & Marvin GansShelley & Arthur GansZita GardnerElaine & Marv GivertzMarilyn & David GluskinEleanor GodfreyJoAnn & Stanley L. GoldJoanne Goldberg

Lillyann Goldstein & Bill Wiener and FamilyRonniez”l & Bonnie GoldsteinMindy & Howard GoodmanBarry & Hanna GordonThe Gottlieb FamilyKathy & Maurice GreenShelley Greene & Joel KirshAllan & Janine GrossmanBarbara L. GrossmanSusan & Haroldz”l GrossmanDorothy Hasinoff & Kalle VagaDr. Larry & Karen HausmanDr. Gillian Hawker & Dr. Marty PerlmutarAlan & Joan HeavenrichHelfield-Klein FamilyJaneth & Alex HenryElaine Herer & Stephen HolzapfelJill HertzmanAndrea Himel & Eric AdelsonSusan Himel & Neil KozloffHelen & Joe HochbergThe Howard FamilyDr. Ivan & Diana HronskyThe Ingvaldsen FamilyElliott Jacobson & Judy MalkinAllan Kates & Danielle HimelHilary & David KettnerJeffrey & Natalie KirshDr. Stuart & Francie KleinShirley KofmanRichard & Sydney Krelstein and FamilyAlan & Carol LavineMr. & Mrs. Anthony LeibelBrian Lidsky & Elana Paice LidskyHettie & Norman LofchyJean & Richard LorieRandy Malinsky, Mathew Malinsky, Cathy BrackJustine Melman and FamilyKeith & Suzette MeloffFred & Cecile MetrickBrian & Joan MirskyDavid & Karen MockFreda Ariella & Arthur MuscovitchMichelle & Gavin NaimerErin O’ConnorAlbert & Sandra PageShoshana PaiceRandolph & Julia PaisleyMartin & Farah PerelmuterAlison & Gary PolanDr. Frank Pulver & Dr. Annalee CohenTed & Merle RachlinVal & Anita RachlisAnna Cecille RatneyJane & Russell RendelyRazelle Roebuck & David MacCoyFlorence & Irving RotherMaxwell & Nancy-Gay RotsteinRhonda Rovan & Howard RosenbergRobert & Marlene RudermanMr. & Mrs. Daniel RumackMichael & Janet RyvalRivanne SandlerMatthew Sapera & Darren SukonickDoreen & Alan SaskinLawrence Sax

Robert SchipperSamuel & Charlotte SchwartzAnci ShafranHelen & Edward SheffmanDonna & Stanley ShenkmanRobert & Mona SherkinDr. Larry & Carolyn SilverbergRoslyn G. SitzerGerald & Judy SlanNeri & Peter SlanSharon Smith-Miller & Shelley MillerLawrence Smith & Marsha Elser-SmithMarilyn & Richard SobermanEthel SolomonJanis & Gary SorenRandy & Debbie Spiegel and FamilySusan & Ray StancerCecile Kaufman SteinRosalie SussmanCheryl Sylvester & Robert Schenk and FamilyLiz Tarshis & Rick LashMr. & Mrs. TemkinLeon & Shirley TesslerSidney Troister & Claudia BlumbergerMarvin & Sharon UngermanJohn & Rosie UsterCraig & Kimberley WaltersMyrna WeinsteinThe Wilder FamilyShari & Michael WilsonAlan & Phyllis WintraubStan & Ros WitkinLinda WolfeDorothy & William WolfsonGeorge & Glory WortzmanBetty YoungThe Zemans-Ronthal FamilyAnonymous x7

FriendCarol AbugovMs L. Aro & Dr. R. LeaderEthel BainAndrea BaltmanRita BelferJanice Bereskin & Ira BarkinGail BermanRosemarie BermanMrs. Susan BermanBirenbaum FamilyBeverley BorinsPaulette BrodeySally ChodorcoveSara ClodmanMarcia & Kenneth CohenMichael ColeDavid Dewitt & Susan Davis-DewittJudy DruyanMildred EisenbergNancy Epstein & David GoldbloomBrian & Susan FishmanIsabel FreemanPaula FreemanAdam FremesJohn & Nora FreundEtta Ginsberg McEwanHersh & Shawnee Glickman

Jose & Mary GoldmanMillie & Sheldon GoldsteinCynthia Good & Dan AronchickClaire GoodmanGail & Gary GoodmanThe Gordon-Chow FamilyLeland Harris & Ruth MoraynissE. David HartLinda Kamerman & Lewis MolotEtienne & Aubrey KaplanEllen KarabanowMarion KazdanPaula KirshRobert Klotz & Lyn FeldmanMarie KnaulFern Lebo & Alan BrudnerJeffrey Leibel & Nancy GebelLeonard LevyNancy & Irving LiptonPeter & Eleanor LoebelVeronica (Vera) MandelPnina MargoleseJoel Mickelson & Julie Markle and FamilyKaylee MillerMichael & Thuy MorgulisCarol OsulkyMrs. Bernice PencinerClifton M. PezimMark & Joy ResnickLindi RiversJoanne Rosenberg & Jerry McIntoshAdele SagerDr. & Mrs. Mark SagerRabbi Michael SatzRon & Elisabeth SaundersRuthe Schipper & Jerry RotsteinDan & Yael ScutaruTobye & Sydney SennetDiane & Gary ShiffmanGail SilverJulius SilverAlma SimonskyRobin & Bill SimsAlexis Singer & Brian NicholsKenneth & Ruth SkolnikRuth SmithAnne Snidermanz”l

Joan SolwayDoris Sommer-RotenbergPaul & Roseanne SpiarCarol Lou SpiegelMarla Spiegel & Joe DonahueAnn D. SuttonJay & Linda SwartzTema TitleFrank & Jane TizelIda TuggPaula & Alan WarrenJanet & Mark WebberMr. & Mrs. G. WinemakerJoy & Herbert WolfsonSherry WolfsonHarriet WolmanGloria WunderThe Zalvin FamilySteve ZalvinAnonymous x 24

19

Bulletin • December 2015

416.789.3291 • www.holyblossom.org1950 Bathurst street, Toronto, on m5P 3K9

WelcomeWe are delighted to welcome the following new members to Holy Blossom Temple:

Aaron KazmanAbby Ti leAdam SnidermanAdam MolotAdam & L indsay BederAlan Frydman & E layne NusbaumAlexandra Chr isAlexandra SaperaAndrew Ber inste inAnna HodginsAr i Morgul isBarnett LudwigBarry Dewit tBen GoodisBenjamin Leon & Amy GreenbergBenjamin CaplanBenjamin HertzmanBenjamin & Aubrey FreedmanBenjamin ShapiroBradley ShafranBrooke GangbarChar les L issChar les LudwigCor inne GoldbergerDanie l KolominskyDanie l AxelrodDanie l Fr iedlandDanie l RoherDavid PolanDavid Getz & Stefanie DanisDean SkurkaDevon Stossel-Sta i rsEden GelgootEla ine GoodmanEl i MolotE l len Cole

El l iot Ber inste inEmi ly SaundersEr ic BalshinEr ika F inestoneEr in Gelgoot & Cra ig GaffneyEr in S i lverste inEvan FreedmanEzra StraussEzra F le ischGreer TanzerHannah KalmanHoward SchmeltzerIsaac DickerIsaac LawtherJack L ipsonJacob DickerJacob Mirv ish & Leyla BikbylatovaJakson InwentashJamie SaperaJamie Crawford-Ri tchieJason RosenJennie HowardJenni fer SchlossbergJenni fer MayersJesse & Cam WhiteJi l l Mei lachJoanna Shnal lJoeley PulverJonas RossJonathan Rotcht inJonathan L indsJoshua BorodinJoshua SackJust in L indsJust in P icov & Abby SharpKaiya Kf i r Morgul isKaren Reisman

Ken & Ravi t LechterKira SklarLana L issLaura CharneyLauren Carro l lLauren AlbertLee DavisLeeza Richman-GouldLyla Abel lsMarc FeldmanMarl ie SmithMatthew Kl incansMatthew DickerMatthew CohenMegan CramerMel & Car la KrassMeredi th JonatanMichael RosenbergMichael L issMichael KravshikMichael MarksMichael Jones & Ashley Iskip-LavoieMichel le BlackMir iam Heavenr ichMol ly GoodisMonica Peters & Bradley VoorenNatal ie S imonskyNatal ie EcklerNicole InwentashNicole MarkowitzNikki KravshikNoah RosenstockNorman & Glor ia MayOl iv ia PencinerOona NadlerRachel Ti leRachel MoranisRachel Strauss

Rachel Fr iedlandRachel Ehr l ichRaquel InwentashRebecca Tart ickRebecca SklarRebecca Ste inRi ley ZuckermanRob SnidermanRobert Snider & Hayley RovetRobert Chr isRobyn GoldharRon & Z lata HuddlestonRon Rein & L ina Wu-ReinRory DiamondRudy Goldenberg & Sarah FergusonSamantha WolfeSamantha CorbinSamara Abel lsSamuel RumackSandra LyonsSarah GoodmanSean Hacker TeperShayna MarkowtizSof ia LudwigSophie RiversStephanie Tart ickSteven Rotcht inTaiga L ipsonTaylor ZuckermanTyler SmithValer ie Hami l tonYale HertzmanYonatan Konig & Kar ly WaksZachary Ber inste inZev Skolnik