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FEBRUARY 20, 2017 | 24 SHEVAT 577 ESTABLISHED 1937 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM | $2 Hundreds gather to do good deeds on Mitzvah Day Mitzvah Day 2017 was marked by the performance of good deeds by young and old – and those in between – along with a celebration of Canada 150. Louise Rachlis reports.

he Soloway Jewish Community Lianne Lang of CTV was MC for the Centre (SJCC) and Hillel Lodge event. She praised the “hard work and were buzzing with activity as dedication” of Mitzvah Day Chair Cindy ISSIE SCAROWSKY Eli Saikaley of Silver Scissors Salon supervises Mitzvah Day celebrity haircutters (from left) hundreds of volunteers – from Smith and her planning committee, and T Jeff Miller of GGFL, Mayor Jim Watson and City Councillor Jean Cloutier as they prepare to cut at preschoolers to seniors – gathered, acknowledged the Friends of Mitzvah least six inches of hair from Sarah Massad, Yasmin Vinograd and Liora Shapiro to be used by February 5, on the Jewish Community Day for their support, and GGFL Hair Donation Ottawa to make wigs for cancer patients experiencing medical hair loss. Campus and several off-site locations, to Chartered Professional Accountants, the participate in the Jewish Federation of Mitzvah Day major sponsor for the past Ottawa’s annual Mitzvah Day. eight years. In recognition of Canada’s sesquicen- Hair donations for Hair Donation tennial, a Canada 150 theme was incor- Ottawa – an organization that provides porated into many of the good deeds free wigs for cancer patients experiencing performed. hair loss – was the kick-off mitzvah. “Many of the kits assembled this Other mitzvahs included making crafts Mitzvah Day were totals of 150 or mul- with residents of Hillel Lodge; a sing- tiples,” said Federation President and along at the Lodge; assembling soup CEO Andrea Freedman. “We’re trying to ingredients in jars for the Ottawa Kosher celebrate Canada’s birthday all year Food Bank; assembling birthday kits for round.” children living in shelters and Shabbat A special Canada 150 Mitzvah Day art kits for Ten Yad and the Kosher Food canvas was set up for participants to sign Bank; making therapy puppets for with red markers. Crossroads Children’s Centre for children The packed social hall at the Soloway dealing with mental health issues; Jewish Committee Centre echoed with making sandwiches for distribution at the excitement as children and adults, Ottawa-area homeless shelters; making eager to perform good deeds, gathered for challahs to be sold to Mitzvah Day

a bagel breakfast and the Mitzvah Day participants to benefi t the Kosher Food ISSIE SCAROWSKY Children work together on crafts with Hillel Lodge residents during Mitzvah Day. opening ceremony. See Mitzvah Day on page 2

Meet Israeli Ambassador Ottawa athletes heading Barbara Crook on fi ghting inside: Nimrod Barkan > p. 3 to Maccabiah Games > p. 13 hate and ignorance > p. 20

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Continued from page 1 Good Hope,” said Mitzvah Day organizer Bank; creating care packages for mem- Rena Garshowitz. bers of Canada’s Armed Forces stationed Other off-site mitzvahs took place at overseas; and bracha bags with warm the NCSY Centre, where high school socks and other needed items that Jewish students prepared meals for Ten Yad; at Family Services distributes to homeless Temple Israel, where the Quilting Project persons in Ottawa. worked on baby quilts to send to Israeli The One Match program from daycare centres, agencies and nurseries, Canadian Blood Services was on hand at and to CHEO for premature babies; and Mitzvah Day to take swabs from people at Dovercourt Recreation Centre, where interested in joining the bone marrow the Kehillat Beth Israel TOV Team made registry and to tell people about this sandwiches for the needy. important life-saving program. “I have two daughters, 15 and 12, and “Mitzvah Day is a wonderful way to it’s important to give back to the com- come together as a community,” said Sue munity and have fun helping others in Potechin of Temple Israel Religious need,” said Mitzvah Day Chair Cindy School. “The theme for our school this Smith in her closing remarks. year is ‘Am Echad’, One Nation,’ and it “We are very fortunate. It’s amazing to doesn’t matter if you’re secular, Orthodox see all the people who get up early and or liberal, we must all come together as participate. It’s really special. one Jewish community. It’s very import- “Your efforts help fulfi l the Jewish ant for our kids to know that.” values of tikkun olam – repairing the There were also a number of Mitzvah world – and, in doing this, you have Day activities taking place off-site. brought smiles to many faces and HOWARD SANDLER Mitzvah Day Chair Cindy Smith makes challah with her niece, Georgia Smith, “The Sephardi community put comfort to so many in need,” Smith told as volunteers Jenny Glassman and Allison Geffen look on. together packages for the Shepherds of the assembled Mitzvah Day participants.

ISSIE SCAROWSKY Rabbi Rob Morais gathers with students of Temple Israel Religious School after a morning of performing good deeds during Mitzvah Day.

See page 27 for Publication and Deadline Proudly Serving Barrhaven dates for over 18 years! Commercial Sales & Leasing ❋ Consulting ❋ Site Selection/Relocations ❋ Tenant Representation ❋ Feasibility Studies Investment/User Properties ❋ Strategic Growth Planning ❋ Land Assemblies/Development Sites and 613-580-2473 Candlelighting @BarrhavenJan BRENT TAYLOR BROKER of RECORD, PRESIDENT facebook.com/BarrhavenJanHarder times. [email protected] www.brentcomrealty.com 613-726-7323 / FAX 613-721-8849 www.JanHarder.com February 20, 2017 3 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM Meet Nimrod Barkan, Israel’s new ambassador to Canada Nimrod Barkan, Israel’s new ambassador to Canada, arrived in Ottawa in December to succeed former ambassador Rafael Barak. He sat down with Ottawa Jewish Bulletin Editor Michael Regenstreif at the Embassy of Israel in Ottawa to introduce himself to Ottawa’s Jewish community.

mbassador Nimrod Barkan, the future ambassador was born in Tel Aviv State of Israel’s new chief in 1952. diplomat in Canada, arrived in After studying international relations AOttawa in December just as the and Middle East history at the Hebrew cold Canadian winter was layering the city University of Jerusalem, Barkan joined in snow. Israel’s Foreign Ministry. On December 12, he presented his “I joined the Foreign Ministry on credentials to Governor General David January 2, 1977, the same day as Rafi PMO Johnston at Rideau Hall and was immedi- Barak,” he said, referring to the former Israeli Ambassador Nimrod Barkan and his wife, Shlomit Shulov-Barkan, with Prime Minister ately thrust into an ambassador’s typically Israeli ambassador to Canada whose Justin Trudeau at a holiday reception hosted by then-foreign minister Stéphane Dion. busy schedule of meetings with political tenure here ended just before his began. leaders and government offi cials, national Barkan’s distinguished career has now Palestinian election on January 31. bureau was merged with the Bureau of media interviews, community and cultural stretched across four complete decades “Suddenly, Hamas held a majority in World Religious Affairs, with responsibil- events, and cross-country travel, all the and has included diplomatic postings in the Palestinian parliament … which ity for both falling under his direction. while settling into his new home in Ottawa Egypt, the United States and France, as completely changed the political reality,” Barkan’s diplomatic experience with his wife, Shlomit Shulov-Barkan, and well as high level positions in Israel with he said. includes stints as consul in Philadelphia into his new offi ce at the Embassy of Israel. the Foreign Ministry. Barkan explained that this shift in the from 1982 to 1985; political consul at Barkan’s father, a teenaged Holocaust Among those positions was heading Palestinian political dynamic took the Israel’s embassy in Cairo from 1985 to 1987, survivor from Hungary, arrived in pre- the Ministry’s Policy Research Centre in Israeli intelligence community by surprise where he survived two terrorist attacks; in state Israel on a clandestine immigration 2006, a time of two major upheavals in as no one expected Hamas – a terrorist Washington as minister of public affairs ship after the Second World War. The the Middle East. The fi rst was the organization pledged to destroy the responsible for the operations of all of Jewish state – to win the election. Israel’s consulates in the United States The second upheaval came in June from 1992 to 1995; consul general in San when the Second Lebanon War broke out. Francisco from 1995 to 1997; and in Paris The Policy Research Centre under Barkan from 2010 to 2014 as ambassador to recognized that Israel did not have an exit UNESCO and the Council of Europe. strategy from the war in place and Barkan said his fi rst priority as Israeli designed a plan that helped bring the war ambassador to Canada is to preserve and to a close. enhance “the excellent relationship and This led to a greatly expanded role for friendship” that Israel enjoys with Canada the Policy Research Centre in Israel’s and “expanding the relationship in as policy-making apparatus. many fi elds as possible.” “My biggest contribution to the Foreign Barkan said he expects the signing of a Ministry was the four years in which we modernized free trade agreement between completely rebuilt and recreated the Israel and Canada to take place within the Policy Research Centre and established it next two months. for what it is today,” Barkan said. Throughout the interview, Barkan An earlier position held by Barkan in displayed a keen sense of humour, which

EMBASSY OF ISRAEL the Foreign Ministry was heading the can be seen in a short YouTube video Israeli Ambassador Nimrod Barkan speaks at a reception at the National Arts Centre prior to a Bureau of World Jewish Affairs beginning introducing the ambassador to Canada. performance by Israel’s acclaimed Batsheva Dance Company, January 11. in 2000. During Barkan’s tenure, the http://tinyurl.com/barkan-video 4 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM International Holocaust Remembrance Day marked at City Hall ceremony

BY ELANA MOSCOE Centre for Holocaust Education and JEWISH FEDERATION OF OTTAWA Scholarship (CHES) at Carleton oday, we peacefully stand University, the Embassy of Romania together to honour all those acting as current chair of the International who perished and survived the Holocaust Remembrance Alliance ‘TNazi atrocities,’ said (IHRA), International Holocaust Environment Minister Catherine Remembrance Day Ottawa, and the McKenna. Wallenberg Citation Initiative. McKenna, MP for Ottawa Centre, was Daniel Stringer, the event MC, said it was important that so many organizations representing Prime Minister Justin ELANA MOSCOE Trudeau at Ottawa’s International worked together on the program. Holocaust survivors and others gathered at the International Holocaust Remembrance Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony, “The 20th century clearly demon- Day ceremony at Ottawa City Hall, January 27, participate in the “We Remember” campaign January 27, at Ottawa City Hall. strated that the results of ignoring the on social media. The event was co-sponsored by the truth are war, racial hatred and genocide. Jewish Federation of Ottawa, the Centre The Romanian Chairmanship of IHRA efforts made by our Canadian partners in Holocaust,” said CIJA CEO Shimon Koffl er for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), the welcomes and supports the signifi cant keeping alive the memory of the Fogel, also in the press release. “On this Holocaust and honouring the victims and occasion, we renew our call to all signator- the survivors,” said Adrian Ligor, chargé ies to the 2009 Terezin Declaration to Allan Taylor BENITA SIEMIATYCKI, BA, MA Sales Representative d’affaires a.i. at the Romanian Embassy. honour their commitment to provide ■ GROUP PLANS “Holocaust remembrance allows us to restitution to survivors and their families. 613-236-9551 BUSINESS We also thank the three federal Canadian ■ LIFE INSURANCE 1-888-335-6565 TOLL FREE pause and grow our collective efforts ■ DISABILITY INSURANCE 613-612-6779 CELL towards achieving inclusion and toler- parties for their leadership on calling for ■ PENSION and RRIFs [email protected] ance,” said Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson. restitution.” 613-244-9073 “Our everyday actions contribute to “The Centre for Holocaust Education 100 ARGYLE AVENUE [email protected] OTTAWA, ON K2P 1B6 building a culture of acceptance and and Scholarship is joining millions around www.cbrhodes.com reaffi rm our collective responsibility to the world today to become part of the religion tolerance and acceptance.” largest organized commemoration ever on social media in a way that has not been Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. Commenting on the importance of www.taylorfi nancial.ca Knowledge and Service You CanKnowledge Trust andEach OfficeService Is Independently You Owned Can and TrustOperated. Holocaust remembrance, former MP David done before,” said CHES Director Mina Kilgour, a noted international human Cohn. “In the digital age, we are aiming to rights activist, quoted the late Elie Wiesel, be where the young generation is. We who said, “To forget the dead would be hope, through the “We Remember” akin to killing them a second time.” campaign [on social media], to raise “On International Holocaust awareness and to pass the torch to the Remembrance Day, we are reminded of next generation.” the need to ensure that Never Again, It is expected that next year’s means Never Again,” said Federation International Holocaust Memorial Day President and CEO Andrea Freedman in a Ceremony in Ottawa will take place at the press release. National Holocaust Monument now “CIJA joins our partners to remember under construction near the Canadian the six million Jews who perished in the War Museum. Looking For Laminate & Cork Flooring? Visit our showroom to view the latest trends in Laminate & Cork flooring.

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A series of profi les throughout 2017 spotlighting the contributions of historically important Jewish Canadians to our country. Herb Gray 1931 - 2014 Canada’s first Jewish federal cabinet minister he Right Honourable Herb the federal elections of 1963 and Gray had a distinguished 1965. The riding was abolished and political career that absorbed by three other Windsor included being Canada’s ridings under redistribution for the Tlongest continuously serving mem- 1968 election, and Gray was elected ber of Parliament and the fi rst Jew to in one of them, Windsor West. He serve as a federal cabinet minister. subsequently won re-election in He held many cabinet positions under Windsor West in the elections of Canadian chair of the International prime ministers Pierre Trudeau, John 1972, 1974, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1988, Joint Commission, a binational Turner and Jean Chrétien, rising to 1993, 1997 and 2000. organization established by Canada the position of deputy prime minister In addition to serving in such cabinet and the United States to deal with Bronze bust of Herb Gray by sculptor in Chrétien’s cabinet from 1997 until positions as minister of national rev- trans-border issues pertaining to Christopher Rees in Windsor, Ontario. 2002. enue, minister of consumer and cor- water and air rights. He also served nine Canadians who did not serve in Herbert Eser Gray, the son of Fannie porate affairs, minister of industry, as chancellor of Carleton University any of those positions to be granted and Harry Gray, was born May 25, Government house leader, solicitor beginning in 2008. the title. 1931 in Windsor, Ontario. He received general, and deputy prime minis- On the occasion of his retirement Among Gray’s many other honours his elementary and high school ter, Gray also served as Opposition from Parliament, governor general were honorary degrees from the education in Windsor and went on house leader from 1984 to 1990 and Adrienne Clarkson granted Gray University of Windsor, Assumption to earn his bachelor of commerce as interim Opposition leader in the the title “The Right Honourable” University in Windsor, Catholic Uni- degree from McGill University in House of Commons for most of 1990 in recognition of his distinguished versity of Lublin in Poland, McGill Montreal and his law degree from between the resignation of John contributions to government and University in Montreal, and the Uni- Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto. Turner as Liberal Party leader and political life. In Canada, the title is versity of Ottawa. A member of the Liberal Party the election of the new party leader, generally reserved for current and of Canada, Gray was first elected Jean Chrétien, to the Commons. former prime ministers, governors Gray was married to Sharon to Parliament in 1962 from the Gray resigned from Parliament on general and chief justices of the Sholzberg. They had two children, Windsor-area riding of Essex West. January 14, 2002 to become the Supreme Court. Gray is one of only Jonathan and Elizabeth, and nine He was re-elected in Essex West in grand children.

Next in the series Submit an essay To help mark Canada’s 150th, we are welcoming personal essays from readers. Constance Glube 1931 –2016 Please share with us! What does it mean to you to be Jewish in Canada? As a Canadian Jew, what do you hope for our future? Is there anything special in our Justice Constance Glube served as chief justice Canadian history that has impacted you as Jew? of Nova Scotia and was the first female Please note, submission should be about 300 words and will be edited for style. chief justice in Canada. Send submissions to: [email protected] 6 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

We have subsidies available for camp, Join the Soloway JCC: Ganon preschool and membership to make being part of our centre inclusive for all, regardless of fi nancial situation. We Be part of the heart are a membership institution, and becoming a member is the best way to support our efforts while being connected of our community to the Jewish community. During the summer, our centre is fi lled Whether you use the SJCC to exercise, We need everyone to not only with the next generation. Summer camps are growing every year, both in the learn, educate your children, celebrate be a user, but be an actual Jewish holidays, or for a kibbitz, you number of children, and in the types of quickly realize our facility is the ‘town member. Don’t just swim in the camps we offer. Last summer saw a record number of children with more than 2,500 FEDERATION REPORT centre’ of Ottawa’s Jewish community. It pool, take a class or join in SABINA WASSERLAUF is a place where we can all gather and feel the fun at the Chanukah Party. registrations. We expect to surpass that SOLOWAY JCC a sense of belonging while engaging in this summer in Day Camp, Travelling programs that enrich the experience of Be connected as a member. Sports Camp and 20 different one-week hen the Soloway Jewish being Jewish. It’s been an incredible 18 years. Specialty Camps. Community Centre (SJCC) I love that, when I’m at the SJCC, I can Be part of this amazing place Over the past 12 years, the SJCC has been meeting or surpassing our fi nancial fi rst opened its doors 18 walk by an Orthodox rabbi with a volume and help us move forward. years ago, I often came to of the Talmud under his arm, while goals and, thanks to the hard work of our W dedicated board, staff and volunteers, we swim laps in the pool. Most days, I was someone else is strolling through the Jewish community to feel a sense of the only one swimming back and forth building on the way to the outdoor pool in connection to the centre. Every Jewish continuously provide top-notch programs and could take up as many lanes as I fl ip fl ops and a towel. We encompass the person in Ottawa should feel welcome in all our departments. wanted. But, it wasn’t long before the rest full diversity of our community; from a and see themselves as part of the SJCC. In order to continue to build upon our of the Jewish community, and the high energy Zumba class to learning Our community-wide celebrations and success, we need everyone to not only be a community at large, discovered this about Jewish ethics. The full representa- commemorations are open to everyone, user, but be an actual member. Don’t just hidden gem tucked away on a side street tion of our Jewish community lives here and our goal is to have each and every swim in the pool, take a class or join in the off Carling and Broadview Avenues, and under one roof. There is no other place member of our community here, together. fun at the Chanukah Party. Be connected soon the pool, along with the rest of the else where that happens. There are no obstacles to being part of as a member. building, was bustling with activity. My vision is for every member of our the SJCC. It is available and open to you. It’s been an incredible 18 years. Be part of this amazing place and help us move forward and grow so that we can continue to be the centre of Ottawa’s Jewish Ancient parables community for generations to come. with lessons for today Ottawa Jewish Bulletin VOLUME 81 | ISSUE 8 once seemed like a burden transforms into and put in the effort and they realized that Ottawa Jewish Bulletin Publishing Co. Ltd. 21 Nadolny Sachs Private, Ottawa, K2A 1R9 a source of meaning and empowerment playing beautiful music was not just Tel: 613 798-4696 | Fax: 613 798-4730 that will truly allow you to soar. something with which to honour their Email: [email protected] Published 19 times per year. But it’s only by taking the time to learn parents’ memory and show respect for the © Copyright 2017 and to understand that we are afforded the king. Rather, they found that making PUBLISHER opportunity to connect to the richness of music kindled a fi re in their own souls Andrea Freedman our heritage, which brings me to the they had never before experienced. EDITOR second parable. And, the more they learned, the more Michael Regenstreif FROM THE PULPIT There was once a beloved king, whose incredible the experience was for them. PRODUCTION MANAGER RABBI IDAN SCHER court musicians played beautiful music for They began to experiment with sound, Brenda Van Vliet MACHZIKEI HADAS him. The king loved the music, and the composed new melodies, rediscovered BUSINESS MANAGER musicians loved to play for him. Every day, harmony, and produced a music inspired Eddie Peltzman here are two poignant ancient for many years, the musicians played with by their own sense of devotion and love. The Bulletin, established in 1937 as “a force for constructive communal consciousness,” Jewish parables that have particu- passion and joy, and the king and the The king witnessed their efforts and was communicates the messages of the Jewish lar resonance in modern times. musicians developed a deep love for one deeply moved. Their music was different Federation of Ottawa and its agencies and, as the city’s only Jewish newspaper, welcomes a T The fi rst is the story of a bird another. But, eventually, after years of from their parents’ music but, like them, it diversity of opinion as it strives to inform and during the days of the creation of the dedicated service, all of the musicians came from a place deep within, from a enrich the community. Viewpoints expressed in these pages do not necessarily represent world. This particular bird was created passed away. Their children were called to compelling need to give of their spirit and the policies and values of the Federation. without wings and, when it looked around the king’s court and were asked to take be in touch with their innermost selves. The Bulletin cannot vouch for the kashrut at other birds soaring in the heavens, it their parents’ place. Out of loyalty to their We each connect to Jewish tradition, of advertised products or establishments implored its Creator to allow it to fl y. That parents, the children came to play each Jewish life and Jewish history in our own unless they are certified by Ottawa Vaad HaKashrut or a rabbinic authority recognized night, while the bird was asleep, God morning. But, unlike their parents, the ways. The music we bring into the sym- by OVH. affi xed wings to its body. When the bird children did not love the music. While phony of our community may not be the $36 Local Subscription | $40 Canada awoke and saw two new appendages to its they could play the basic tunes, they did same as our ancestors, and we may be $60 USA | $179 Overseas | $2 per issue body, it said to God, “God, I asked you to not understand the power of their instru- playing for entirely different reasons. We acknowledge the financial support of the make me fl y, not to make me heavier.” God ments, and played with little enthusiasm. Some of us may feel the music of Jewish Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department replied, “Little bird, just fl ap them and you Their resentment grew each day they life deep in our souls, as we have been of Canadian Heritage. will see that you will fl y. That which you played. playing for our entire lives, and others ISSN: 1196-1929 perceive as a burden is exactly what will But, after some time, a few of the have just begun connecting. But that is the Publication Mail Agreement No. 40018822 allow you to soar.” children said, “We are not being fair to beauty of Jewish learning. We can discover Being a committed Jew is all too often ourselves. We owe it to ourselves to how our Judaism speaks to us. It morphs Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Ottawa Jewish Bulletin looked at as a burden. And, at fi rst glance, explore and see if we can discover the from continuity just for the sake of 21 Nadolny Sachs Private, it may seem that way. But, when you take incredible love and joy our parents had for continuity, into continuity fuelled by our Ottawa ON K2A 1R9 the time to learn and to understand, what playing.” And so they did. They learned Judaism truly meaning something to us. February 20, 2017 7 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

vote, and he was able to form a coalition by making deals with the small parties. The worst form of democracy Thus, we see the two religious parties, which together received just over 10 per ‘except for all those others’ cent of the vote, able to impose haredi Orthodox control on many aspects of theory that the Liberals would be many with fi rst-past-the-post. Israeli society – from who may marry and voters’ second choice thus almost Count me among them. I’m reminded divorce, to what kind of prayer services guaranteeing Liberal majority govern- of Winston Churchill’s famous quote may be undertaken at the Western Wall, ments in the future. from 1947, when he said, “No one pre- and much more. Meanwhile the New Democratic Party tends that democracy is perfect or And, when Netanyahu sought to and the Green Party favoured some sort all-wise. Indeed it has been said that strengthen his weak coalition, Avigdor of proportional representation so that democracy is the worst form of govern- Liberman – leader of a party that received

FROM THE THE FROM EDITOR parties would hold the number of seats in ment except for all those other forms that just fi ve per cent of the vote – was able to MICHAEL REGENSTREIF Parliament refl ective of their share of the have been tried from time to time.” demand and receive control of the popular vote. The theory being that the That’s the way I think of fi rst-past-the- Defense Ministry, Israel’s most important e are committed to NDP and Greens would see their share of post. It’s probably the worst form of department. ensuring that 2015 will be seats increased in a system of propor- democracy “except for all those others.” I’m relieved we won’t be seeing small the last federal election tional representation. A ranked ballot system that would parties in Canada wheeling and dealing ‘Wconducted under the And the Conservative Party, it seems, permanently favour one party doesn’t and taking control of important fi rst-past-the-post voting system,’ said was OK with fi rst-past-the post, the seem like a democratic ideal, and I fear ministries. Liberal leader Justin Trudeau during the system in which the candidate receiving a that proportional representation would last federal election campaign. A commit- plurality of votes in a riding wins the seat not serve us well. RABBI SIMES PASSED AWAY ment that was reiterated after the Liberal and the party with the most seats is given I say that because I pay a lot of atten- We were deeply saddened to learn that Party formed a majority government and the opportunity of forming government. tion to Israeli politics, and the system Rabbi Yehuda Simes z”l, a beloved Trudeau became prime minister. Monsef – who was moved out of the there is proportional representation, a educator in Ottawa’s Jewish community, Trudeau charged his minister of democratic institutions portfolio in last system that encourages many small, often passed away on February 7. democratic institutions, Maryam Monsef, month’s cabinet shuffl e – did not fi nd single-issue parties rather than the kind Confi ned to a wheel chair since he was with fi nding a consensus that would that elusive consensus, and it was left to of big-tent type parties that have to critically injured in a highway accident in allow for an alternative system. Trudeau, her successor, Karina Gould, to announce appeal to a broad electorate. 2007, Rabbi Simes was an inspiring fi gure it was said, favoured a ranked ballot in that the search for an alternative to Because the parties are small, it is to all who met him – whether in person or which voters would somehow rank the fi rst-past-the-post was over. Despite virtually impossible for any party to win a online via his “Rolling Rabbi” blog. candidates so that votes for candidates Trudeau’s oft-stated commitment, the majority of seats in the Knesset. Coalition Our condolences are extended to who don’t cross a threshold would be fi rst-past-the-post system will endure for governments are always the rule. In the Shaindel Simes and to their children. A redistributed to the voter’s second choice. the next election and, likely, well into the 2015 Israeli election, Benjamin full-length tribute to Rabbi Simes is Conventional wisdom had it that future. Netanyahu’s Likud was fi rst among the planned for the next issue of the Ottawa Trudeau favoured a ranked ballot on the But, most Canadians, it seems, are fi ne many parties with 23.4 per cent of the Jewish Bulletin.

get frightened. The more he loudly ‘Being thin-skinned is not proclaims his policies will make America safer, there are any number of trained terrorists, or potential lone wolf terrorists, a good trait for a leader’ who would love to prove him wrong. It is like an open invitation to do evil, just to difference. The key is nuance and impulsive, quick-tempered bully really show you can. Embarrassing a boastful, subtlety, and getting both of them right. It what they want? over-confi dant president would be ‘huge.’ is about grace under pressure. It is about Perhaps the most important lesson of Being thin-skinned is not a good trait straight-laced thoughtfulness and the election for the so-called elites – for a leader. Most learn not to be because prudence. people like me who thought they knew they have to be above the little things. But Being on the right or the left has better – is the steadily growing number of there is nothing to indicate that Trump nothing to do with it. Politics should have people in the United States, as well as in can or even wants to.

IDEAS AND IDEAS IMPRESSIONS nothing to do with it. Democracies are other western democracies, who, socially He is so unpredictable that the hope he JASON MOSCOVITZ designed for people who don’t agree with and economically, have fallen so far will change to better suit the needs of his each other. Respect and decency are behind that their anger is no longer country, and our world, is quickly supposed to make winners and losers controllable. No longer do they believe in slipping away. recently met CBC Radio news anchor work together to whatever degree traditional ways of looking at political There is something in the air, some- Laurence Wall in shul. We were just possible until the next election when the solutions. thing swirling about that is so unsettling. leaving after Shabbat services and people decide if they want change. With social media linking all these Fictional movies and books have been Igot into a conversation about Donald It was obvious many months ago that unhappy and angry people together, produced about conspiracies bringing Trump’s start as U.S. president. We were lack of respect and decency were at play there is a new force that is gobbling up dangerously unfi t people to the Oval two news guys trying to make sense of with Donald Trump, but no one could the world as we knew it. So much is on Offi ce. “The Manchurian Candidate” our rapidly changing times. The pace of have imagined the fallout from his the table. The risks are enormous. comes to mind. This could be the real change can make you dizzy. bull-in-a-china-shop mentality. It is so When the president of United States thing with or without a Russian Conversations like that are going on omnipresent in everything he says and makes crucial decisions without consult- conspiracy. everywhere and many lead to a scary does. There is no relief. No let up. He so ing non-elected experts in government, Human beings try hard not to think the uneasiness about a president who does seldom stops being himself. you have to realize how volatile this way worst. We are taught from an early age to not seem to have a fi rm grip on the ship There are many Trump defenders who of governing is. I am sure Trump knows think the best of people and to move of state. There are as many reasons to be say he is just being who he was all all about hotels, but he is no expert on at forward believing everything will work fearful as there are trouble spots in the through the campaign, and they maintain least 95 per cent of what crosses his desk. out in the end. world. he is being honest and consistent as His immigration and refugee policies But ‘The Donald’ is now president of After years of seeing politicians at their president. But then you have to wonder are designed, he says, to keep America the United States – and that is just plain best and at their worst, I have learned the about the people who say that. Is a brash, safe. And, every time I hear him say that, I scary. 8 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM CIJA conducts grassroots consultations across Canada

ne of the most gratifying aspects of working in BRITANNIA $249,000 / FOR RENT Jewish advocacy is that our community is, $1,450/month decidedly, not monolithic. The array of back- STEVE MCDONALD, CIJA Open concept 3 bed, 2 bath corner unit condo, grounds, political views and Jewish practice GUEST COLUMN w/ tree tops views. Updated baths, fabulous O one fi nds within Canadian Jewry is remarkable. The on site amenities, nearby shops! Immed sheer size of our community – third-largest in the occupancy! www.206-2625Regina.com Diaspora, behind only American and French Jewry – diversity of opinions that emerged in this process and provides rich diversity. empowered every individual to share his or her views CARLINGTON NEW PRICE $259,000 This variety inevitably shapes our communal advocacy with the group. At some tables, a clear consensus Bright 3 bed + 2 bath semi-detach bungalow agenda and our work at the Centre for Israel and Jewish emerged; at others, participants were divided as to where w/ hwd flrs, fully fin lwr lvl, updated Affairs (CIJA), the advocacy agent of Jewish Federation of CIJA should focus its energies. shingles & more! Ottawa and Jewish Federations of Canada-USA. On any We like to say we are guided at CIJA by the principle of www.jeffgreenberg.realtor given day, I may be engaged in issues as diverse as “unity not uniformity,” and this certainly emerged as apt anti-Semitism, Israel, human rights legislation, palliative HAMPTON PARK/WESTBORO in these consultations. Our community cannot afford to care, affordable housing, genetic discrimination and NEW PRICE $322,900 overlook that there is far more that unites than divides us. Holocaust remembrance. In a world of limitless opportun- Rarely available 2 bed, 2 full bath west-facing When discussing politics and other contentious issues, we ities (and distractions), it is more important than ever to condominium. Open concept, hwd flrs, private must allow for respectful disagreement and debate. At the determine priorities and establish focused plans to patio & more! www.105-682Churchill.com same time, we must seek points of consensus that enable advance them. us to plan and take timely, effective and unifi ed action. This is why, in January, CIJA conducted grassroots CENTREPOINTE $319,900 We’re all familiar with the adage that where one fi nds consultations with Jewish communities in nine cities Minto built! 3 bed, 2.5 bath condo townhome two Jews there will be three opinions. Perhaps how one across the country – including Ottawa on January 22. in desirable neighbourhood. This family ori- interprets this expression – as a sign of discord or of While we were not able to hold in-person consultations ented home feats. hwd flrs in liv/din, wood healthy debate – depends on whether one is a pessimist or in every city with a Jewish presence, we have subse- burning fireplace, fin lwr lvl & more! 30-45 an optimist. quently launched a national, online survey to enable day possession. @www.20Winterburn.com For my part, I love that we are a people who, for millen- every member of our community to participate. Visit nia, have valued ideas, intellectual refl ection, reasoned www.cija.ca for more details and to make your voice WESTCLIFFE ESTATES $329,000 debate, and even disagreement. It is a notable testament heard. Sun-filled 3 bed, 1.5 bath single family home to our commitment to intellectual honesty that, in citing on a child friendly street. Updated kitchen, Open to any member of the Jewish community, the decisions, the Talmud records minority opinions for the baths, windows ++. Fully fin lwr lvl & more! consultations provided a unique opportunity for grass- benefi t of future generations. May we always be a people www.68priamway.com roots Jewry to meet in person and discuss the issues and of multiple opinions, so long as we never stop channelling concerns that should guide us. In a world in which people our energies toward the common good. are connected online, but all too often do not speak or BRIDLEWOOD $389,900 Steve McDonald is deputy director, communications and Immaculate, open concept, 3 bed, 2.5 bath share ideas “beyond the screen,” the consultations public affairs, at the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs – the family townhome. Main lvl feats 9’ ceilings, provided a useful platform for meaningful community advocacy agent of Jewish Federation of Ottawa and Jewish hwd flrs, 2nd lvl laundry, fin lwr lvl w/gas discussion and debate. Federations of Canada-UIA. fireplace +++ @ www.164Kinghaven.com Divided into discussion groups, each consultation session asked participants to list what they believed CIJA’s FISHER HEIGHTS $425,000 priorities should be – and propose a priority issue for the Well maintained, spacious 4 bed, 1.5 bath table’s consideration. Following a voting process, each Athens Rugs Ltd. family home on a mature 67’ x 100’ lot. Hwd discussion group submitted to the entire room their top HIGH QUALITY FLOORING flrs throughout main & 2nd lvls. Updated gas issue. Carpet Hardwood Ceramic furnace & roof shingles! Immed. occupancy! Among the wide range of issues discussed were Laminate Cork Vinyl www.48Lyall.com countering hate crimes, challenging anti-Israel bias in the media, ensuring affordable access to Jewish education, 1365 Cyrville Road ALTA VISTA $529,000 building bridges beyond the Jewish community to foster 613-741-4261 Spacious 4 bed family home w/ lrg principal tolerance, improving the security of the Jewish commun- www.athensrugs.com rms in desirable Playfair Park. 57’ x 140’ lot! 60 ity, and alleviating poverty by increasing funding for day poss. < 10 min walk to the shul @ Jewish social service agencies. Since 1975 e: [email protected] www.2177Delmar.com In the end, fi ghting anti-Semitism, countering the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement ARLINGTON WOODS NEW PRICE against Israel, and building the Canada-Israel relationship $799,000 ranked as the top three choices of community members. Life’s brighter under the sun Move in ready 4 bed, 3.5 bath family home To view the full results, visit www.cija.ca. w/ a main flr office & a solarium addition on As a session co-facilitator, I can attest to the remarkable a picturesque 75’x125’ lot backing on a I can help with: ravine. Flex. poss. @ www.7Riverbrook.com • Life insurance • RRSPs/RRIFs • Mutual funds* • Personal health insurance • TFSAs • Employee benefits CEDARHILL $3,250,000 Incomparable award winning 5 bed w/ 4 Diane Koven BA (Hons) CFP® CHS™ ensuite baths, custom built home backing on 613-728-1223 ext 2235 the golf course. Matchless construction & [email protected] appearance @ www.7Timbercrest.com 1525 Carling Avenue, Suite 600 Ottawa, ON JEFF GREENBERG SALES REPRESENTATIVE ROYAL LEPAGE TEAM REALTY (613) 725-1171 Mutual funds distributed by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. www.jeffgreenberg.realtor Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2016. February 20, 2017 9 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

Advertorial Learn Yiddish in six weeks at uOttawa’s Yiddish Summer Institute BY REBECCA MARGOLIS newspaper or other text with the help VERED JEWISH CANADIAN of a dictionary; write about a variety of Dan More than trees Lynda STUDIES PROGRAM topics and in multiple formats (letters, Mader Taller-Wakter UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA poetry, short fi lm scripts, etc.); and Board 613.798.2411 Executive iddish is the language of a know at least 20 Yiddish songs. They Chair [email protected] Director thousand years of European will also be familiar with many aspects Jewish civilization and the of Yiddish culture from Eastern JEWISH NATIONAL FUND Yshared language of most of Europe through present-day Canada, the Jewish immigrants who settled in including music, literature, theatre Jewish Disabilities Awareness Month Canada. Over the last century, Yiddish and fi lm. and Therapeutic Recreation Month has evolved a rich literature, musical The course is open to current Universally accessible KKL-JNF parks and playground tradition, theatre and cinema. Today, university students and to mature is a year round philosophy there are many innovative initiatives to students. No previous background is February is dedicated to building awareness of the rights explore Yiddish, including the digitiza- required aside from a willingness to and freedoms of people with disabilities. At KKL-JNF, we have tion of all of Yiddish literature and new work hard in a very rigorous university adopted the spirit and principle of universal access in accordance movies and television. class. It will be of particular interest to with Israel’s Equal Rights Law for People with Limitations 1996, As part of this Yiddish renaissance, students who require Yiddish lan- which states, “The rights of people with limitations are founded the University of Ottawa is offering an Rebecca Margolis guage reading knowledge for their on the recognition of equal rights for all people … the rights of exciting opportunity to learn and research; are interested in Yiddish people with limitations and the commitment of Israeli society to those rights, based on the recognition of the value of people who engage with the language and culture in our Yiddish performance of theatre or music; want to learn more were created in the divine image, and the principle of respect for Summer Institute. about Eastern European Jewish culture; wish to be able humanity … The purpose of this law is to protect the dignity and Running daily from May 1 until June 13, this introduc- to translate from or into Yiddish; seek to be creative in liberty of people with limitations, and to firmly establish their tory course in Yiddish language and culture will allow Yiddish; enjoy learning new languages; or for whom rights as equal and active participants in society in all areas of life, diverse students to learn to speak, read, write, sing and Yiddish is a family or heritage language. and to appropriately provide for their special needs so that they explore Yiddish literature and culture in an intensive As a scholar and instructor of Yiddish with more than will be able to live their lives with maximum independence, privacy format that is unique in Canada. 20 years’ experience teaching Yiddish to children and and dignity, and full realization of their potential.” The program consists of daily Yiddish language classes adults in university and community settings, including In recent years, KKL-JNF has been investing great efforts and in the mornings plus weekly cultural activities, including at New York’s YIVO summer program and the Yiddish resources, with the help of its friends worldwide, to create forests and recreation areas specially designed for people with physical theatre workshops, fi lm screenings and performances. It Book Center in Amherst, Massachusetts, I am excited to limitations, taking into consideration their functional needs so that will conclude with a fi eldtrip to Yiddish Montreal, offer this intensive course at my home university. I invite they can get around comfortably and safely. Most KKL-JNF sites, including a visit to local Yiddish-speaking Chasidic you all to come and lern zikh yidish! information centres and scenic lookouts are adapted for people neighbourhoods and a live theatre performance. Information regarding the program and registration is with special needs. Every project planned by KKL-JNF takes acces- Students who successfully complete the course will available at www.yiddishottawa.com. Registration opens sibility considerations into account, and a lot of work is being done receive six university credits and will be able to hold a in March on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. For more to upgrade existing sites and make them accessible in accordance basic conversation like a native speaker; read a Yiddish information, contact me at [email protected]. with the conditions of location and the limitations of budget.

How does KKL-JNF make sites universally accessible? • Marking recreation areas suitable for those who are limited Show Israel You Care! in mobility and improving the access roads to them. Volunteer as a civilian worker • Avoiding the building of stairs, making roads with moderate slopes (up to 8 per cent) and installing handrails for stairs and for two or three weeks ramps. on an Israeli army supply base • Making hard ground surfaces to enable mobility for people who move in wheelchairs or carriages. • Installing low picnic tables and grill stands close to parking areas. In most picnic areas (that are topographically suitable), about 10 per cent of the picnic tables and grill stands are suitable for those who move in wheelchairs. • Installing curbstones to prevent wheelchairs from swerving and to enable safe mobility for people whose vision is limited. • Creating signs, audio stands and aromatic plants, in order to enhance the nature experience for people whose vision is impaired. • Using induction coils for people whose hearing is impaired (a type of wireless loudspeaker achieved by magnetically transmitting sound to hearing aids and cochlear implants with telecoils). • Developing hiking trails of different lengths and scenic look- outs suitable for people in wheelchairs. • Installing playground equipment and sports facilities that are suitable for people with disabilities. • Installing restroom facilities designed for people in wheel- chairs. A full listing of universally accessible JNF sites in Israel can be found at: http://www.kkl-jnf.org/tourism-and-recreation/ accessible-forests-parks-sites-israel. Free: accommodations, kosher meals, trips, events. LETTERS WELCOME Cost: air fare, $100 registration, weekend expenses. 205-11 Nadolny Sachs Pvt Celebrate all occasions [email protected] Ottawa, K2A 1R9 Israel experiences Letters to the Editor are welcome if they are brief, signed, Like us on Facebook Legacy projects timely, and of interest to our readership. The Bulletin 514-735-0272 or [email protected] jnfottawa.ca 100% Israel reserves the right to refuse, edit or condense letters. The Mailbag column will be published as space permits. www.sarelcanada.org www.JNFOttawa.ca Send your letters to: [email protected] Programs start approximately every 3 weeks. 10 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

Ben Karp Volunteer Service Award recipient Bob Wener (centre) and Grossman-Klein Teen Leadership Award recipients Tommy Podolsky and Belinda Cantor gather at the Soloway Jewish Community Centre annual general meeting, February 1. Volunteers honoured at Soloway JCC AGM

BY PAMELA ROSENBERG What started as an opportunity to get SOLOWAY JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTRE high school volunteer hours turned into a hree outstanding Jewish com- meaningful and fulfi lling volunteer munity volunteers were hon- experience. Belinda spends an hour each oured, February 1, at the Soloway week with a child who has autism. TJewish Community Centre Belinda says spending time with her (SJCC) annual general meeting. buddy has had just as large an impact on Bob Wener received the Ben Karp her as it has on him. Volunteer Service Award. An active A graduate of the Ottawa Jewish member of the SJCC Board of Directors Community School, Belinda is also a for 16 years, Bob has served as both student at Torah High and has volun- treasurer and chair. teered with Chai Lifeline, an organization With Bob at the helm, the SJCC has that provides services for Jewish families been successful in individual donor with a sick child, as well as with Ten Yad, cultivation and recently completed our an organization that provides meals and 12th consecutive year of meeting or support for those in need. Belinda is a surpassing our fi nancial goals. Bob will Youth Services leader at Kehillat Beth chair a major capital initiative on behalf Israel where she organizes and leads a of the Centre in the future. Shabbat service for elementary school In the broader community, Bob has children as well as High Holiday services. served as chair of the CHEO Foundation Tommy Podolsky is also in Grade 12 at Board and the CHEO Investment Sir Robert Borden High School where he Committee, and on the Carleton is president of the Jewish Culture Club džƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞƚŚĞƐƵŵŵĞƌŽĨĂůŝĨĞƟŵĞ͊ University Board. and planner for the Holocaust remem- ΨϳϬϬͲΨϭ͕ϬϬϬŽīĨŽƌϭƐƚͲƟŵĞĐĂŵƉĞƌƐ “It has been an honour and pleasure to brance assembly. He is also a member of work with Bob. His exceptional leader- the Sir Robert Borden student council ship has helped the SJCC in numerous and the Ottawa-Carleton District School Camp sessions ways,” said SJCC President and COO Board student senate, and captain of the Barry Sohn. “I have learned much from Sir Robert Borden varsity baseball team. Bob about community and about striving A BBYO Ottawa Chapter president, † WEEKEND CAMP Grades 1-3 for excellence.” Tommy received the BBYO Silver Shield The Grossman-Klein Teen Leadership of David Award, a historic and prestigious † ϭͳt<D/E/ͳDWGrades 1-3 Award recipients were Belinda Cantor honour awarded to a male, who, through- † 2-WEEK STARTER CAMP Grades 1-5 and Tommy Podolsky. out his tenure in Aleph Zadik Aleph, Belinda Cantor is a Grade 12 student at displayed outstanding leadership † 3 1/2 - 51/2 WEEKS † :ƌ͘/d/^Z>dZ/W Sir Robert Borden High School. To fulfi l contributions and consistent her mandated high school volunteer commitment. REGISTER TODAY hours, Belinda worked with the Tommy was one of two Ottawa teens to Friendship Circle, a Jewish Youth Library be part of NCSY’s, Jerusalem Journey (514) YCC-CAMP | [email protected] program that matches high school and program and volunteers at Ottawa Jewish ycountrycamp.com university students with children with community events, including Mitzvah special needs. Day and the Chanukah Gift Fair. February 20, 2017 11 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

Save the date: Lag Ba’Omer Event

Two great community institutions, one great event! Let’s celebrate Lag Ba’Omer together.

Date: Sunday, May 14th

Time: Buses leave OJCS @11am and return to OJCS by 3:30pm

Where: Camp B’nai Brith of Ottawa 7861 Chemin River, Quyon, QC, J0X 2V0

And don’t miss the Open House at CBB of Ottawa June 11th, 10am - 1pm

For more information, please contact: Jonathan Pivnick, Director - [email protected] Cindy Presser Benedek, Associate Director - [email protected]

Financial Assistance Available and Confidentially Handled 613.244.9210 Find us on our Facebook page Camp B’nai Brith of Ottawa @cbbofottawa Visit us online at: cbbottawa.com 12 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

Valued at $1,800, the Ilana and Steven Rubin Scholarship aims to help students who are attending or planning to attend a Canadian or Israeli post- secondary institution. This award is intended for candidates with a B average or higher, with demonstrated financial need, who are seeking their first academic award. full details at ojcf.ca To apply, contact Arieh Rosenblum at [email protected] or 613-798-4696, ext. 270 February 20, 2017 13 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM Ottawa athletes to compete in Maccabiah Games in Israel

BY BILL IZSO MACCABI CANADA The 20th Maccabiah Games will take place in Israel from July 4 to 18. Ottawa athletes who will be part of the Canadian delegation held a kick-off event, February 2, at NeXT restaurant in Stittsville. Surrounded by friends and family, every one of our Ottawa athletes felt like a gold medalist as CTV’s Lianne Laing introduced them one by one to loud applause. Laing also shared her own Maccabiah story. She competed in gymnastics at the 1989 and 1993 Games and talked about the pride she felt walking into the stadium and singing “Hatikvah” with the other Jewish athletes from around the world representing their countries in Israel. The guest speaker was Tessa Bonhomme of the 2010 Olympic gold medal-winning Canadian women’s hockey team. Rather than the usual keynote address, Bonhomme and Laing held a conversation and dis- cussed representing Canada, life after sports and visiting Israel. Ottawa athletes set to compete at the 2017 Maccabiah Games in Israel. (From left) Alexa Shabinsky (track), Haley Miller Bonhomme described being in Vancouver for the (rhythmic gymnastics), Jaime Bender-Kerbel (jr. baseball), Coby Pearce (jr. tennis), Jesse Levine (tennis champion), Dan Osterer (softball) and Hayley Bennett (softball). Missing from photo: Rob Osterer (softball), Stephen Osterer (softball), Ken Kaczkowski Winter Olympics in 2010. As the host country, Team (wrestling), Lauren Shaffer (swimming) and Alex Aronovici (swimming). Canada was the last country to enter the opening ceremonies. When the doors opened, the cheers were so loud that Tessa felt a wave that blew her hair back. down after the tour. She said it was so hot their sweat is a mother of three who plays softball. In 2014, Bonhomme visited Israel to teach at the evaporated before it could stain their jerseys. This is what Maccabi Canada is all about: showcasing Canada-Israel Hockey School in Metulla. She recalled A highlight of the evening was Alexa Shabinsky and how sport and Israel can help build community and visiting the Western Wall, Ein Gedi, the Dead Sea, and Hayley Bennett’s personal stories about why they chose Jewish pride. many other places – and the impression that Masada to become Maccabiah athletes. They cited the thrill of Proceeds raised at the event support the Ottawa area made on her. competing internationally and their upcoming fi rst visit athletes competing at the 20th Maccabiah Games. Visit Bonhomme said it was already too hot at 9 am to to Israel. Shabinsky is a Grade 12 student at Ashbury www.maccabicanada.com for more information about climb up Masada, so some of the hockey players walked College who competes in track and fi eld, while Bennett Maccabi Canada and the 20th Maccabiah Games.

UniversityThe Vered of Jewish Ottawa Canadian Studies Program at the University of Ottawa YiddishThe Vered Summer Jewish Institute Canadian Temple Israel A six-week, six-credit An egalitarian Reform congregation intensiveStudies introductory Program course in Yiddish language and culture An academic program promoting the understanding of Jewish life, culture, language, Jewish roots, contemporary values, egalitarian Mayliterature 1 and to history June in Canada. 13, 2017 Friday Kabbalat Shabbat Services, 6:15 pm. Daily language classes, culture class, fieldtrips Saturday Shabbat Services, 10:15 am. OpenMinor toin Jewishall students, Canadian noStudies previous background required Thursday morning minyanim: Courses being offered in the upcoming year: second and fourth Thursdays, 7:30 am. An ideal opportunity for students: Fallο 2010who: Introduction require Yiddish to Yiddish language Language reading and knowledge Culture 1; for their research; Sunday, February 26: Books and Bagels: Rubin Friedman will review NEW:ο Sociologywho are ofinterested Contemporary in Yiddish Canadian performance Jewish Life. of theatre or music; “Yiddish for Pirates” by Gary Barwin. Bagels, 9:30 am; review, 10 am. ο for whom Yiddish is a family or heritage language; Winter 2011: Introduction to Yiddish Language and Culture 2; Introduction to Jewish Most books are available through the Ottawa Public Library and the ο who want to learn more about Eastern European Jewish culture; Canadianwho Studies; wish to History be able of theto translate Jews in Canada. out of or into Yiddish; Greenberg Families Library at the JCC. The Malca Pass Library and the ο ο who seek to be creative in Yiddish; Temple Israel Library also carry some of these titles. For more information Instructors: Professors Pierre Anctil, Rebecca Margolis and Randal Schnoor. ο who enjoy learning new languages. please contact Shayla Mindell at [email protected] Financial support and scholarships are available. Registration opens at the end of March. For more information, contact our program coordinator, Professor Seymour Mayne President Patsy Royer For613-562-5800 information ext.1148 regarding | Email: the program, [email protected] registration, | www.Vered.uOttawa.ca and housing: Rabbi Robert Morais www.yiddishottawa.com Rabbi Emeritus Steven H. Garten Or contact the program coordinator and instructor: Executive Director Heather Cohen Professor Rebecca Margolis [email protected] Temple Israel Religious School Principal Sue Potechin Administration Officer Cathy Loves

1301 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa, ON K2C 1N2 Tel: 613-224-1802 Fax: 613-224-0707 www.templeisraelottawa.ca 14 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

Employment Opportunity Summer Intern Ottawa Jewish Bulletin The Ottawa Jewish Bulletin is seeking a university student with a flair for writing and reporting to work with us this summer. Duties will include researching and writing news reports and feature articles on various topics of interest to the Jewish community; proofreading; and other duties that may be assigned.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resumé, Chabad Student Network: Carleton University student Sam Goodman lights candles at a Chabad On Campus Shabbaton for students from across Canada held in Niagara Falls, January and writing samples to: 27-29. Goodman was part of a busload of students from the Chabad Student Network of Ottawa who journeyed to the event. Michael Regenstreif, Editor Ottawa Jewish Bulletin 21 Nadolny Sachs Private Ottawa, ON K2A 1R9 or via e-mail to: [email protected]

Fauda’s Lior Raz comes to Ottawa: An evening with Lior Raz, creator and star of the hit Israeli TV show “Fauda,” will be presented on Sunday, February 26, 7 pm, at the Soloway Jewish Community Centre. Tickets are $10 and available online at www.cija.ca/raz. For more information, contact Sarah Beutel at [email protected].

Breaking news updated at www.ottawajewishbulletin.com February 20, 2017 15 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM With full Talmud translation, online library hopes to make sages accessible to all for free

BY BEN SALES NEW YORK (JTA) – For centuries, studying a page of the Talmud has come with a bevy of barriers to entry. Written mostly in Aramaic, the Talmud in its most commonly printed form also lacks punctuation or vowels, let alone translation. Its premier explanatory commentary, composed by the medieval sage Rashi, is usually printed in an obscure Hebrew typeface read almost exclusively by religious, learned Jews. Even then, scholars can still spend hours fi guring out what the text means. And that’s not to mention the Talmud’s size and cost: 37 full volumes, called tractates, which can take up an entire shelf of a library. Helping students and readers crack these barriers and access what amounts to a library of Jewish law, ritual, folklore and moral guidance has been an ongoing endeavour. Milestones include the fi rst (unfi nished) attempt at an English translation by American publisher Michael Levi Rodkinson at the turn of the 20th century, an abridged version by Rabbi Chaim Tchernowitz in the 1920s, and “The Soncino Talmud on CD-ROM” from 1995. Now, a website hopes to build on these earlier break- throughs and break all the barriers at once. Sefaria – www.sefaria.org – a website founded in 2013 that aims to put the seemingly infi nite Jewish canon online for free, has published an acclaimed translation of the Talmud in English. The translation, which includes COURTESY OF SEFARIA explanatory notes in relatively plain language, was The interface of the Steinsaltz Talmud on Sefaria includes line-by-line translation, along with links to commentaries See Talmud on page 17 and references to a range of Jewish sources, which appear in a separate vertical.

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OTC Teens: Teens gather with Rabbi Menachem Blum and Ottawa’s Shinshinim, February 1, at Unlocked Ottawa Adventure and Game Lounge for the kickoff of Ottawa Torah Centre’s CTeen program, Participants created keychains with a prayer for protection of IDF soldiers. CTeen meets monthly for social action projects, discussions with Rabbi Blum, and fun.

In support of the Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge In the Joseph and Inez Zelikovitz Long Term Care Centre 613-728-3990

Card Donations Card donations go a long way to improving the quality of life for our residents. Thank you for Jenny and Murray Citron Family Fund Lillian and Harold Shoihet Family Fund Recreation Program considering their needs and contributing to their In Memory of: In Honour of: In Honor of: well-being. John Hutt by Murray Citron Bonnie and Andrew Fainer Mazel Tov on Helen and Meir Alvo Mazel Tov on your On behalf of the residents and their families, we Teena Hendelman by Murray Citron the engagement of your daughter Ari to Adam grandson’s Bar Mitzvah by Bonnie and Sherwin extend sincere appreciation to the following individ- Samuel Sheriff by Murray Citron Aronson by Dovid Shoihet and Family Lyman uals and families who made card donations to the In Honour of: Maury MacLeod Mazel Tov on your new job Hillel Lodge Long-Term Care Foundation between Sam and Dora Litwack by Murray Citron by Dovid Shoihet and Jessica * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * January 18 and February 1, 2017 inclusive. and Sarah Therapeutics Program HONOUR FUNDS Sternberg / Jacobsen Family Fund R`Fuah Shlema: Nell Gluck Memorial Fund Unlike a bequest or gift of life insurance, which In Honour of: Danny Levine by Joanna and Ira Abrams are realized some time in the future, a named In Memory of: Laya Jacobsen by Barbara and Alec Okun Honour Fund (i.e., endowment fund) is established Renee Myers by Henry and Maureen Molot * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * during your lifetime. Gitta Aptowitzer by Henry and Maureen Louis and Diane Tannenbaum IN MEMORY OF: By making a contribution of $1,000 or more, you Molot Family Fund Gitta Aptowitzer by Irwin and Anna Hinberg can create a permanent remembrance for a loved In Memory of: Jenny Mendelsohn by Elaine Hauptman one, honour a family member, declare what the Gunner Family Fund Lawrence Capelovitch by Louis and Diane Dolf Hecht by Robin Chernick and Norm Lodge has meant to you and/or support a cause that In Honour of: Tannenbaum Leckie you believe in. Ian and Estelle Melzer Mazel Tov on the Marilyn Sadowski Goldstein by Bill and A Hillel Lodge Honour Fund is a per- birth of your granddaughter by Estelle and Sol * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Laurie Chochinov manent pool of capital that earns interest Feeding Program or income each year. This income then supports the Gunner Paul Mintz by Bill and Laurie Chochinov priorities designated by you, the donor. Arlene and Mel Schecter Mazel Tov on your In Memory of: Ivan Goldman by Golda and Ned Steinman 50th Wedding Anniversary Marilyn Sadowski Goldstein by Barbara and and family Ruth and Irving Aaron Family Fund Larry Hershorn Randy Byskov by the residents, staff and In Memory of: Evelyn and Isadore Hoffman Anne Gold by Glenda and David Moss Boards of the Lodge and LTC Foundation Ed Saslove by Ruth and Irving Aaron Family Fund In Honour of: Ethel Naor by the residents, staff and Boards R`Fuah Shlema: R’Fuah Shlema: Myra and Sam Krane Mazel Tov on Joshua of the Lodge and LTC Foundation Cally Kardash by Ruth and Irving Aaron Brenda Levine by Issie and Evelyn Hoffman making partner at Blakes by Lysette and Louis David Shore by Issie and Evelyn Hoffman Kohn IN HONOUR OF: Bill and Leona Adler Memorial Fund Joy and Seymour Mender Mazel Tov on the Joy and Seymour Mender Mazel Tov on In Memory of: Ken and Leah Miller Family Fund engagement of Jess and Sean by Lysette and Louis your daughter’s engagement by Issie and Leah Gustav Hecht by Marilyn Adler and Neil In Memory of: Kohn Scarowsky Blacher Dr. Ivan Goldman by Lisa, Mitch, Dalia and Gital Greenberg Happy Birthday by Carole Elliott Marshall by Elayne Adler and family Haley Miller * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * and Wally Cherun

THE LODGE EXPRESSES ITS SINCERE APPRECIATION FOR YOUR KIND SUPPORT AND APOLOGIZES FOR ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS. DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, THE WORDING APPEARING IN THE BULLETIN IS NOT NECESSARILY THE WORDING WHICH APPEARED ON THE CARD. “GIVING IS RECEIVING” - ATTRACTIVE CARDS AVAILABLE FOR ALL OCCASIONS Here’s a great opportunity to recognize an event or convey the appropriate sentiment to someone important to you and at the same time support the Lodge. Call orders may be given to Cathie at 728-3990, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. You may also go to: www.hillel-ltc.com and click on the “Donate Now” button to make your donations. Cards may be paid for by Visa or Mastercard. Contributions are tax deductible. February 20, 2017 17 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM Talmud: Goal to democratize Jewish religious scholarship

Continued from page 15 prayer text for free so people can put started by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz in 1965 together their own prayer books. Its and is considered by many to be the best founder, Aharon Varady, said the in its class. modern-day emphasis on intellectual The Steinsaltz edition of the Talmud property clashes with the Jewish tradi- has been in print for decades, in both tion of sharing knowledge openly and modern Hebrew and English translation, freely. and parts of it already exist on the “It’s the idea that Torah should be Internet. But this is the fi rst time it is transferred without limitations,” Varady being put online in its entirety for free. said. “Copyright is an innovation with The online edition also opens up the fairly different interests than that of a copyright licence, meaning that anyone is living culture that is growing by educators allowed to repurpose it for teaching, sharing material, by teachers making literature or anything else. source sheets with others.”

“Ninety per cent of the world’s Jews COURTESY OF SEFARIA The site already offers thousands of speak Hebrew and English,” said Daniel (From left) Sefaria Executive Director Daniel Septimus with co-founders books in open-source code, so anyone can Septimus, Sefaria’s executive director. Brett Lockspeiser and Joshua Foer. use them, and hopes to add thousands “The Talmud is in Aramaic. It will now be more – the entirety of Judaic literature. online in Hebrew and English. From an century, the Talmud has been published aids with quotations from a range of Lockspeiser, a former Google software accessibility point of view, it’s a game with unpunctuatedtext in a column in the Jewish books. Users have already created engineer, said that compared to indexing changer.” middle of the page, its commentaries 50,000 such sheets. billions of web pages, the Jewish canon is (Septimus was formerly CEO of wrapping around it. “We have no idea what kind of devices no tall order. MyJewishLearning, one of JTA’s partner Like all of Sefaria’s texts, which range people are going to be learning Torah on “People can’t get into the Talmud sites, and sits on the board of 70 Faces from the Bible to Chasidic texts and works in 10 years, but we know those devices will because they don’t know it’s there,” Media, JTA’s parent company.) of Jewish law, the Steinsaltz translation is be chomping on digital data; so having a Lockspeiser said. “If it’s not in English and Sefaria rolled out 22 tractates of the published sentence by sentence in a database of these texts that’s open, you type in English words in the [online Steinsaltz English edition on February 7, mobile-friendly format, with the trans- fl exible, free for use and reuse is a good search] query, it’s not going to come up. and will be publishing the entire Hebrew lation appearing below the original. The thing,” Septimus said. We’re opening this up just in the sense translation over the course of 2017. The format also allows Sefaria to link between Another site which shares that goal, that people will fi nd it that didn’t even rest of the English edition, which is as yet the Talmud’s text and the myriad Jewish the Open Siddur Project, provides Jewish know they were looking for it.” unfi nished, will be published online as it sources it references, from the Bible to is completed. The translation’s publica- rabbinic literature. tion was made possible by a multimil- Click on a line of Aramaic, and a string lion-dollar deal with the Steinsaltz of commentaries, verses or parallel edition’s publishers, Milta and Koren rabbinic sources will pop up. An algorithm Respecting tradition Publishers Jerusalem, and fi nanced by the Sefaria uses, which just added 50,000 William Davidson Foundation, a family such links to the Talmud, is also reverse At your time of need or when charity. The edition will be known as The engineered: Click on a verse in the Bible planning ahead, rely on us to William Davidson Talmud. and you will see where it’s quoted in the Translations and explanations of the Talmud or other books. provide everything you need. Talmud already exist online. A range of “This entire web of connections opens apps promises free translations that can up to you just by clicking and touching,” We are proud to support the be unreliable. ArtScroll, the Orthodox said Sefaria’s co-founder and CTO, Brett Jewish Memorial Gardens Jewish publishing giant, offers a digital Lockspeiser. “It’s so clear that the struc- Revitalization Project. version of its own complete English ture of Jewish learning had this net- Talmud translation for $600 US. A work-type experience. This sense of Call us 24 hours a day at: comprehensive digital Jewish library interconnectedness was already there and published for decades by Israel’s Bar-Ilan just needed to be brought out.” The other 613-909-7370 University is also available for purchase, co-founder is the author Joshua Foer. but not with English translation. The project is the biggest step forward Besides its edition being free, Sefaria’s in Sefaria’s larger goal of democratizing Kelly Funeral Home founders say its version of the Steinsaltz Jewish religious scholarship by making it Carling Chapel Talmud is better than competitors digitized, free and intelligible to everyone. by Arbor Memorial because it is untethered to the Talmud’s The site also has a tool for Jewish educa- Arbor Memorial Inc. classic printed form. Since the mid-15th tors to create source sheets, or short study

February Home Inspection Tip: Items in basement storage should be kept out of contact with concrete fl oors and walls to reduce ELEVATED HOME INSPECTION Offers the following services: water damage. Bins with labels Pre-Purchase Home Inspections are an excellent storage solution. Pre-Listing or Pre-Sale Home Inspections Michael Levitan, BID Pre-Renovation Inspections Visit us on the web |613|286-8925 Home Monitoring Services www.elevatedhomeinspection.ca [email protected] 18 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM February 20, 2017 19 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM 20 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM We need stories about ordinary people fi ghting hate and ignorance

really wanted to write about something happy for this messages included such phrases as “Jews belong in the issue. No politics, no tantrum-prone U.S. presidents, oven,” and “Destroy Israel, Heil Hitler.” no talk of settlements or sanctions or sanctimony. Many of the passengers were appalled, but no one did I And then I saw something on the New York Times BARBARA CROOK anything until a woman wondered out loud if it could be website that stopped me in my tracks. Did you know that MY ISRAEL removed. A sous-chef named Jared Nied, who had the Times runs a weekly feature in its Opinion section boarded the train at 42nd Street, remembered that alcohol called “This Week in Hate”? can remove Sharpie ink. It turns out that the paper has done so since Donald “A light bulb went on, and I just asked, ‘Does anyone Trump – aptly nicknamed “President Me” by columnist have hand sanitizer?’” he told the Times. Frank Bruni – was elected president in November. But, if, as the ProPublica site claims, this will actually Passengers began searching pockets and purses for “Reliable data on hate crimes is hard to come by,” the provide policymakers and law enforcement agencies wipes, gels and tissues. Within fi ve minutes and before paper’s editorial board wrote on January 17. “As reports of access to more accurate data about hate crimes than in train had reached 96th Street, all the Nazi symbolism was racist, anti-Semitic and Islamophobic harassment and the past, it could be a good thing. And, as ProPublica gone. attacks poured in after the election of Donald Trump, points out, reporting these incidents will make it harder The incident was never reported to the police. But a many Americans wondered whether they represented a for those in power to ignore the problem. New York lawyer named Gregory Locke posted photos nationwide increase in hate crime.” It’s not enough, however, for the news media just to and a description that went viral on Facebook. So the paper has teamed with ProPublica, a nonprofi t keep statistics on hate crimes. We need more analysis of http://tinyurl.com/haw7hs8 group, and a coalition of other organizations to work on a what is motivating these attacks and strategies for making Sounds like something out of a Hollywood movie. But project called Documenting Hate, which will gather date racist, anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant wouldn’t it be great if this incident empowers others to and information about hate crimes around the U.S. views unacceptable. take similar action? http://tinyurl.com/gn5s6ct The Times lauded the Canadian response to the We don’t just have to fi ght hate crimes. Ignorance is also No doubt the folks at the Times would like to prove that murders at the Quebec City mosque. The paper pointed dangerous. the frequency and/or severity of hate crimes have out that the soul-searching and expressions of solidarity So kudos to B’nai Brith Canada, the Centre for Israel increased since the election of Trump. by ordinary Canadians, and by Prime Minister Justin and Jewish Affairs and Friends of Simon Wiesenthal After completely misreading the mood of the American Trudeau and Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard were in Center for challenging a trade school in British Columbia electorate during the presidential campaign, the Times stark contrast to the knee-jerk response of the Trump that had a policy of not admitting Israelis “due to confl ict has made it its mission to fact-check and/or discredit administration, which used the shooting to justify its and illegal settlement activity in the region.” virtually every Tweet, pronouncement and policy of the anti-immigrant policies. Not only did the school reverse its policy, but the new commander-in-chief, as if we need daily reminders It’s sad that there is enough hate crime to keeps teams incident mobilized other community organizations to that Trump is the least qualifi ed – intellectually, temper- of researchers, journalism students and veteran journal- support the Jewish agencies. amentally and morally – president in U.S. history. ists busy. But, if a recent incident in New York is the result So maybe this is a happy column after all. Perhaps for If this feature is just another way of keeping score of of this kind of scrutiny, then maybe it’s a good thing. every story about hate and ignorance, we need a story Trump’s failures, then it feels more like a stunt than a Earlier this month, the windows and posters of a No. 1 about ordinary people doing their part to fi ght these public service. subway train were defaced with anti-Semitic graffi ti. The plagues – then follow their example. February 20, 2017 21 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM 22 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

Hillel and Chabad offer opportunities Sinai Scholars uOttawa alumnus Valerie Sedlezky feels she grew a lot as a person through the program. “I truly feel that I have gained insight as to what it for Jewish learning on campus means to be a Jew, both as an emerging adult and as a woman living in the 21st century,” she said. “We would ast month, Hillel Ottawa unveiled Jewish U, a openly debate topics [and we] questioned and doubted brand new learning program that has attracted a statements, which only furthered our discussions. To me, wide range of students – including myself – who this is what it means to study religion; to dispute and MICHAEL AARENAU Lare looking to embark on the next chapter of our debate ideas in order to encourage curiosity. These Jewish journeys. CAMPUS LIFE conversations resulted in a deeper personal understand- Jewish U takes place at Hillel House every Tuesday ing of Judaism. I felt as if I had challenged my previous evening from January 17 to April 4 and is led by Rabbi ways of thought and found answers within the religion.” Eytan Kenter, spiritual leader of Kehillat Beth Israel. After In the hustle-bustle of daily student life, it can be tough a hearty supper, we sit down each week to discuss to make time for Judaism, which tends to take a backseat contemporary issues in Judaism. during university for most people my age. This is a Dovi Chein, Hillel Ottawa’s student life co-ordinator, In the hustle-bustle of daily student life, distinctly odd feeling for those of us who attended Jewish said that when he was fi rst envisioning Jewish U, he had it can be tough to make time elementary school and/or high school. an initial meeting with Rabbi Kenter to iron out the These classes offer an opportunity to re-engage with details and was immediately impressed with his enthusi- for Judaism, which tends to take a backseat that missing piece of what once was an integral part of asm and down-to-earth personality. during university for most people our weekly routine and allow us to continue the Rabbi Kenter is a big believer in Jewish education in my age ... a distinctly odd feeling never-ending journey we had started when we were university because it allows students to think about younger. Judaism from our own independent perspectives during for those of us who attended Jewish school. And, for those who didn’t have the opportunity for any a crucial time in our lives. sort of formal Jewish education growing up, this could be Chein said that he hopes the program will become a Chabad Student Network has been running its Sinai an opportunity to learn what all the fuss is about, and to staple at Hillel each semester. Scholars program since 2009. learn more about your people, your culture and yourself. “To create a curriculum that will be interesting for both The Sinai Scholars program runs each semester And, if you’re one of those people who hate the fact ends of the Jewish spectrum is an incredible task,” Chein (alternating semesters between Carleton University and you were born Jewish, but have realized you can’t escape said. “My hope for this program is that all the partici- the University of Ottawa) and is composed of eight it because it’s such an integral part of who you are on the pants will leave each week feeling like they learned classes, one trip and a fi nal paper. most microscopic of levels, these are perfect classes for something about Judaism that they didn’t know or hadn’t According to Rabbi Chaim Boyarsky, the Chabad you to challenge those beliefs, or alternatively, embrace thought about, and will actively think about their Student Network director, “The purpose of Sinai Scholars them. If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Judaism throughout the week.” is to give students a glimpse into the beauty of the Torah’s Ultimately, no matter where you fall on the Jewish While this is the fi rst time Hillel Ottawa has put lessons and how they are practical and inspirational for spectrum, these classes offer something unique. After all, together a Jewish learning program such as this, the them in their daily lives.” you’re never too old to learn. Exercise as a way to develop your personal attributes

t the start of 2017, I made a commitment to You can transfer whatever you experience in your own myself to re-engage in some fi tness practices fi tness activities to other areas of your life. For example, that I used to feel passionate about but had GLORIA SCHWARTZ if you could benefi t from more self-confi dence, or want Agiven up due to circumstances such as evolv- FOCUS ON to feel more powerful, or not get so easily angry or ing interests or scheduling confl icts. I’ve been feeling agitated, choose exercises that will help you develop stuck or coasting and needed to switch things up a bit. FITNESS these soft skills or feelings. The two forms of exercise I have eased back into are The ability to follow through with a goal, or face a from opposite ends of the spectrum: kickboxing and challenge, doesn’t come naturally to everyone. You can yoga. hone those skills at the gym, or outdoors hiking a I’m fi nding that the physical exertion required by mountain, or running a race. Pick an activity that kickboxing balances out beautifully with the serenity of With a bit of introspection, requires the characteristics you’d like to build up, such as yoga. Whether I’m punching and kicking a heavy bag each of us can identify aspects perseverance, or the ability to release and cleanse with all of my might or lying on a mat in a quiet room yourself of mental and physical tension. and listening to myself exhale, the outcomes are similar; of ourselves we’d like to improve. Transferring skills from whatever form of exercise I leave feeling destressed and energized. Exercise can be a mechanism you choose to other areas of your life can be a transform- Some of my friends have told me they could never try to develop them, although changing ative process. You may not even realize you’re develop- yoga because they can’t sit still. All the more reason to ing certain attributes until you fi nd yourself in a try it! A yin-yoga class where you basically sit or lie still one’s personality traits is situation where you employ them. in various poses supported by cushions for prolonged a bit more diffi cult than changing Knowing I am capable of holding my own at kickbox- periods of time teaches you how to appreciate your body learned behaviours or states. ing class with a partner young enough to be my daughter and mind in a different way. It’s so relaxing that in one makes me feel strong and younger than my age. Being class the woman next to me started snoring! about accidentally hurting her, but, once we got into a able to temporarily block out the world, unplug, let go of While I use rudimentary kickboxing drills to train groove, we both felt confi dent. When it was her turn to tension and exhale while chanting “om” in unison with some of my clients, and also non-contact cardio- hit, boy could she pack a wallop! I jokingly asked her if other people helps me better cope with or even overlook kickboxing with the older seniors in my chair-fi tness she was mad at someone. She told me that kickboxing what I might normally consider day-to-day stressors. class, I haven’t had the opportunity to train in a way that helps her rid of stress from her busy life. With a bit of introspection, each of us can identify I get a workout. In the class I recently started taking, I It’s normal to feel muscular soreness a day or two aspects of ourselves we’d like to improve. Exercise can be happened to partner with a young woman following a challenging workout, but, between the a mechanism to develop them, although changing one’s approximately my size, but about half my age. She intensity of the moves and the power I was putting into personality traits is a bit more diffi cult than changing looked fi t, but I felt reassured when she told me she’d them, I was incredibly sore for a couple of days after learned behaviours or states. never done kickboxing before because this ‘old gal’ the fi rst class. The next week, I confessed to my young We can then access the enhanced components of didn’t want to get injured. The fi rst time it was my turn training partner how sore I’d felt. I also told her how ourselves and apply what we’ve learned when needed. to punch and kick while she held the focus pads, she old I was. I laughed when she told me she’d been really Sometimes a change in routine may be the catalyst that informed me that she’s pregnant. I was initially worried sore, too. gets the ball rolling. February 20, 2017 23 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

foundation donations | Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation

The Board of Directors of the BRAYDEN APPOTIVE DAVID AND QUEENIE COHEN Matt Williams; by Zahava and Barry Ottawa Jewish Community ENDOWMENT FUND MEMORIAL FUND Farber; by Arlene and Perry Medicoff; Foundation acknowledges with Mazel Tov to: In Observance by Percy and Shelley Ostroff; by Bonnie Rhoda and Joe Levitan on the birth of of the Yahrzeit of: and Andrew Fainer; and by Harvey thanks contributions to the fol- Slack. lowing funds as of January 27, their grandson by Sharon and David David Cohen by David and Judith Appotive. Kalin. 2016. NORMAN AND SONIA KIZELL Birthday Wishes to: FOUNDATION AJA 50+ ENDOWMENT FUND MARTIN AND ELLIE BLACK Judith Kalin by Shirley Strean-Hartman. ENDOWMENT FUND Birthday Wishes to: Refuah Shlemah to: In Memory of: SID AND BARBARA COHEN Gita Pearl by Rachel and Jerry Joel Morgan by Arnold and Jeanette Schneiderman. Finkelstein. Sid Cohen by Martin and Ellie Black. COMMUNITY ENDOWMENT FUND BARRY FISHMAN JACOB AARON AND In Memory of: PERCY AND SHELLEY OSTROFF OTTAWA JEWISH BULLETIN ESTHER MALKA BRUNER Sid Cohen by Elissa and Avi Iny; by FAMILY FUND SCHOLARSHIP FUND MEMORIAL FUND Sheila Kussner; by Susan Swirsky; by Birthday Wishes to: Mazel Tov to: In Observance of the Yahrzeit of: Steven H. Hirth; by Chuck and Malca Stanley Kershman by Percy and Shelley Miriam Salamon and Bob Moon on the Norman J. and Florence Samuels by Polowin; by Joyce and Marvin Tanner; Ostroff. birth of their granddaughter by Sylvie Albert and Elly Bruner. by Leila Schott; by Celia Jacobs; by Barzilay and Michael Regenstreif. Beverly and Joe Zunenshine; and by HARRY AND BERTHA PLEET BENES AND SARAH CANTOR Yanda and Mark Max. MEMORIAL FUND OTTAWA JEWISH MEMORIAL TORAH In Observance of the Yahrzeit of: COMMUNITY SCHOOL EDUCATION FUND SANDI AND EDDY COOK Bertha Pleet by Pinchas and Barbara PARENT FUND In Observance of the Yahrzeit of: ENDOWMENT FUND Pleet. In Memory of: Sarah Cantor by Judith Altman and Mazel Tov to: Harry Pleet by Pinchas and Barbara Dr. Ivan Goldman by Michelle, Richard, family. Sandy and Murray Ages on the arrival Pleet. Hannah and Tommy Sachs. of their grandson Hudson by Sandi and ARTHUR AND Eddy Cook. FLORENCE AND GDALYAH SARA AND ZEEV VERED LINDA COGAN FUND In Memory of: ROSENFELD ENDOWMENT FUND ISRAEL CULTURAL PROGRAM FOR YOUNG WOMEN’S Shirley Ivker by Sandi and Eddy Cook. In Memory of: FUND LEADERSHIP Edgar Saslove by Anita Rosenfeld and In Memory of: Birthday Wishes to: CYNTHIA AND ABE ENGEL Jocelyn Slatt. Marilyn Sadowski Goldstein by Sara Linda Cogan by Sandi and Eddy Cook ENDOWMENT FUND In Observance of the Yahrzeit of: Vered. and family. In Memory of: Florence Rosenfeld by Anita Rosenfeld Sid Cohen by Cynthia Engel and and Jocelyn Slatt. family. Teena Hendelman by Cynthia Engel. FRANCES AND MORTON ROSS FAMLY FUND ELLEN AND RAHAMIM FATHI In Memory of: ENDOWMENT FUND Sid Cohen by Frances and Morton In Memory of: Ross. Renee Myers by Ellen Fathi and family. HERMINA SCHACHNOW MEMORIAL FUND AL AND LISA GARMAN In Appreciation of: FAMILY FUND Charles Schachnow by Freda and Ernie In Observance of the Yahrzeit of: Rashkovan. Terry Garman by Al and Lisa Garman. SAM AND CELIA SHACHTER ANN AND LEON GLUZMAN OJCS FUND MEMORIAL FUND Mazel Tov to: Mazel Tov to: Ian and Estelle Melzer on the Bat Margo and Judah Silverman on the Mitzvah of their granddaughter Talia, birth of their granddaughter Ella Rose daughter of Jacob and Daphna Melzer, by Cally and Sidney Kardash. and on the birth of their granddaughter Joy and Seymour Mender on their Eleanor, daughter of Jordan and Inni daughter Jess’s engagement to Sean by Melzer by Shirley Steinberg. Cally and Sidney Kardash. SYLVIA AND HARRY SHERMAN HERB AND DENA GOSEWICH MEMORIAL FUND ENDOWMENT FUND Mazel Tov to: In Memory of: Ian Sherman in proud recognition of his Sid Cohen by Dena Gosewich and family. recent appointment by Jack and Julie In Appreciation of: Sherman. Barbara Crook and Danny Greenberg by Dena Gosewich. SAM AND SUE SLACK ENDOWMENT FUND KERSHMAN FAMILY Mazel Tov to: ENDOWMENT FUND Joy and Seymour Mender on Jess’s Birthday Wishes to: engagement to Sean by Susan and Stanley Kershman by Jeffrey and Felice Charlie Schwartzman. Pleet; by David and Judith Kalin; by Fran Kesler, Carly Kesler-Williams and Continued on page 24 24 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

foundation donations | Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation

TAMIR FOUNDATION FUND Mazel Tov to: In Memory of: Rhoda and Joe Levitan on the birth of Dr. Ivan Goldman by Dr. Norman and their grandson by Joy and Seymour · Building Trust Myrna Barwin. Mender. ROBERT WENER AND LYNNE THE SAUL AND EDNA GOLDFARB · Serving the Community ORECK WENER FAMILY FUND B’NAI MITZVAH PROGRAM Mazel Tov to: JONATHAN, MATTHEW · Growing Our Collective Legacy Robert Wener on receiving the Ben AND ADAM SHERMAN Karp Soloway JCC Volunteer Service B’NAI MITZVAH FUND award by Pam Wener and Gary Altman. Mazel Tov to: The Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation ZIPES KARANOFSKY FAMILY Ian Sherman in proud recognition of his ENDOWMENT FUND recent appointment by Jack and Julie follows a strong investment policy guiding Sherman. In Memory of: successful portfolio managers with oversight from Frances Karanofsky by Elissa and Avi ZACHARY SILBER Iny; and by Frances and Morton Ross. B’NAI MITZVAH FUND our investment committee Marilyn Sadowski Goldstein by Rick and Helen Zipes. In Memory of: and Board. The committee Cwi Baranowicz by Rick and Helen Dr. Ivan Goldman by Shari and Zipes. Lawrence Silber. is made up of financial and Teena Hendelman by Shari and Refuah Shlemah to: Lawrence Silber. business experts who lead Dr. Danny Levine by Rick and Helen 10 7% Zipes. . the Foundation’s growth Joel Morgan by Rick and Helen Zipes. Contributions may be made online at www.OJCF.ca or by Return with results that allow you THE WOMEN’S COLLECTIVE contacting the office at 613- to donate with confidence. PHILANTHROPY PROGRAM 798-4696 extension 274, Low Providing support for services and pro- grams that directly benefit women and Monday to Friday or by email Management 3-year annualized return (net of fees) as of children. at [email protected]. Fees Dec. 31, 2015. * Please note that past Attractive cards are sent performance is not an assurance of future WOMEN’S COLLECTIVE to convey the appropriate Foundation growth. ENDOWMENT FUND sentiments. In Memory of: All donations are acknowl- Contact: Arieh Rosenblum, Director of Marilyn Sadowski Goldstein by Lynne- Development at 613-798-4696 x 270 or Oreck Wener and Bob Wener and edged with a charitable family. receipt. [email protected] February 20, 2017 25 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM Learn more about how the Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation helps the community

Students get quality education while learning love of Torah

Jewish education is more vibrant this year as our community welcomes a new unified Orthodox day school, Torah Day School. With the unification of Torah Academy and Cheder Rambam, Torah Day has renewed vitality to meet their goal of inspiring and educating children, academically as well as spiritually. In addition, while the separate day schools received just over $70,000 in Foundation grant program is available now, commitments last year, now all funding will benefit the unified school. and we plan on adding further resources as “Everybody is happy,” explains Board Chair Debbie Scharf about the well,” says Mrs. Scharf. school’s new enhancements. But what makes this school stand out is that not only does it offer a full To begin with, there is a new administration. Joining the school is general studies curriculum, designed to meet or exceed the Ontario Principal Rabbi Eleazar Durden, who has more than 20 years’ education standards, it also offers a full Judaic curriculum. experience as an educator and 16 years as a principal. Also new to the “The greatest value proposition of our school is that you’re getting a school is Sharon Holzscherer, the Vice Principal of General Studies, quality Torah education on top of a general studies education,” explains who brings with her a depth of knowledge in special education Mrs. Scharf. “The school is guided by Torah values, which means there is resources. Rabbi Zischa Shaps, “the tried and true pillar of the school,” a huge emphasis on teaching kids to be good human beings.” remains as the Executive Director and is helping guide its continuity. Rabbi Durden explains that Torah education also helps children Along with the robust new administration, the school, which welcomes develop critical thinking skills. Jewish children from all backgrounds and affiliations, has added curriculum that includes an optional enriched French program, weekly “Torah learning includes a study of the lives of the great Biblical music instruction and additional special resource teachers. characters who were the founders of the Jewish people and rigorous text-based study. Through this, children develop important analytical The French program, which features an extra period of French daily, and critical thinking skills, and learn how to apply these life-skill lessons is offered to children in Grades 1 to 3, and will be growing to include to their own lives. They become adept at looking at themselves more grades in future years. critically through the lens that the Torah provides,” Rabbi Durden adds. “This means about 25% of the students’ day will be in French,” explains The school only employs qualified teachers who provide a personal Mrs. Scharf, adding the program was created for families who wanted approach to learning. Class sizes are small, allowing each child to get their children to have access to more in-depth French language studies. more attention. The music program is being taught by professional musicians to Grades “The school maintains that family-feel; there is no one in the school who 1 to 8 students, and will introduce children to basic concepts of rhythm, is a stranger or who is nameless. Everyone is recognized and part of the pitch, music notation, and harmony. Torah Day family,” says Mrs. Scharf. Another significant addition is that there are now resource teachers for both general and Judaic studies. Foundation assists donors in contributing to the long-term financial “We have more support for children who are having trouble reading support of the agencies which serve the Ottawa Jewish community. Hebrew, for example. Then, on the general studies side, our teachers To find out more, contact Arieh Rosenblum, Director of Development, are equipped to help children with special needs in the classroom. This at [email protected] or 613-798-4696 x270.

Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation www.ojcf.ca 26 February 20, 2017 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM Essays explore alternate and counterfactual versions of Jewish history

What Ifs of Jewish History: From Abraham to Zionism Edited by Gavriel D. Rosenfeld Cambridge University Press RUBIN FRIEDMAN 406 pages (including notes) BOOK REVIEW hat if you had made a different choice at a key moment in your life? A different career, a different school, a different mate. Would Wyour life be signifi cantly different today? contains seven alternate histories and nine counterfac- These are the type of questions that are posed in what tual histories. – according to Gavriel D. Rosenfeld, a respected historical The alternate histories include stories of how the Jews scholar – is the emerging fi eld of study of counterfactual were saved from being expelled from Spain in 1492; histories. In building counterfactual histories, one must Spinoza’s repentance and reacceptance into the com- examine the elements of a historical situation at the munity; a Jewish state being established in East Africa; moment when a key element or decision of the time Franz Kafka moving to Israel and continuing to write; the could have been reversed or changed. establishment of a binational state of Arabs and Jews in One must then extrapolate into the future known place of Israel; the survival of the Weimar Republic, never economic, political and social pressures and infl uences of overthrown by the Nazis; and the successful assassina- the time, given a particular change in the key element tion of Hitler in 1939. being looked at, which has itself to be justifi ed by Counterfactual histories include the absence of the counterfactual possibilities in the history of that period. Exodus from Jewish history; the non-destruction of the It is hoped that, in this way, historical processes can be second Temple; no ghettoes; no Pale of Settlement; a more thoroughly analyzed and understood. Christian instead of a Jewish state in Palestine; Arab elite There are other similar attempts in fi ction, which compromise with Zionism; the Nazis win the battle of el Rosenfeld calls “alternate histories.” These include Philip Alamein; the Nazis complete their Final Solution; and similar outcomes despite changes. Roth’s The Plot Against America, an alternate history of the Holocaust averted. I found the alternate histories engaging and fascinating Second World War-era America when anti-Semitic A broad span of Jewish history is examined, but the in their fi ctional presentations. To some extent, these are isolationism prevailed, and Michael Chabon’s The Yiddish focus is on destruction, survival and a Jewish Land. It focused on hopeful positive outcomes where a large part Policemen’s Union in which Yiddish-speaking Jews had does not, however, mention Abraham except in the of the interest is centred on the motives and characters of been allowed to immigrate en masse to Alaska before the Introduction. Rather, Exodus is the fi rst key event key individuals. Why would David Ben-Gurion and his Second World War broke out. examined by Steven Weizman, who argues that another Arab counterpart agree to a binational state? In reality, Fictional, they delve much more into the psychology of history without the Exodus can be found in Chronicles, why did they not? the individual characters and spend less time explaining where it is not mentioned and he proposes what this Although drier in tone for the most part, the counter- and justifying their theory of the origin of their fi ctional might mean. All the stories and histories show that each factual histories also raise important questions about world or the details of why it came about. alternate or counterfactual history has unforeseen effects luck, timing and the persistence of the Jewish character What Ifs of Jewish History: From Abraham to Zionism and can sometimes lead to results that are, in a sense, regardless of the changes envisaged. This is one of the most interesting results for me. Rosenfeld attributes the previous paucity of Jewish Please support counterfactual histories to the Jewish notion that history our advertisers has a direction and that everything has a cause related to Jewish behaviour or God’s future plans for his people. and tell them In fact, Jewish life is counterfactual. We are the chosen you saw people, yet we have suffered more than many others. As the rabbi in “Fiddler on the Roof” asks, “For once, their ad couldn’t you choose someone else?” in the The book shows how successful Jewish historians and writers can be in dealing with the counterfactual. After Ottawa all, what can be more counterfactual than Maimonides’ Jewish statement, refl ective of Jewish life and experience: “I believe with complete faith in the coming of the Messiah, Bulletin. and though he may delay, nevertheless I wait for his coming every day.” February 20, 2017 27 OTTAWAJEWISHBULLETIN.COM

what’s going on | February 20 to March 5, 2017 FOR MORE CALENDAR LISTINGS, VISIT WWW.JEWISHOTTAWA.COM/COMMUNITY-CALENDAR

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 dancing led by the International Folk Dancers of Ottawa. COMING SOON Israeli Secrets to a healthy and tasteful life Fundraiser for the Ottawa Kosher Food Bank. with Zohar Kerem: Join CFHU for an evening about the Kehillat Beth Israel, 1400 Coldrey Ave., 7 pm. TUESDAY, MARCH 7 Israeli secrets to a healthy and tasteful life, exploring the Info: Paul Adler, 613-521-0170, [email protected] Malca Pass Library Book Group Meeting: power of the Mediterannean diet; olive oil and wine; An Evening with Lior Raz: Creator and star of the “And the Birds Rained Down” by Jocelyne Saucier gluten friend or foe. Zohar Kerem, olive oil and wine well-known Israeli TV series, “Fauda,” 7 pm. will be reviewed by Gerald Halpern. expert, is a faculty member at the Institute of Info: Sarah Beutel, [email protected] Kehillat Beth Israel, 1400 Coldrey Ave., 7:30 pm. Biochemistry Food Science and Nutrition at the Hebrew Info: Maureen Kaell , 613-224-8649, [email protected] WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 University of Jerusalem, 7 pm. SATURDAY, MARCH 11 Info: Orit Tor, 343-998-6418, [email protected] Women’s Torah Study with Rabbi Zuker: Join Rabbi Deborah Zuker in her home for a monthly Women’s Torah Israeli House Purim Party: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Study. Also March 29, April 26, June 21, 7 pm. Israeli House Purim event. Adults only, 7:30 pm. Saturday Night at the Movies with Chazzan Benlolo: Info/RSVP: Rabbi Deborah Zuker, Info: Ella Dagan, 613-798-9818, ext. 243, The second fi lm of a three-part fi lm festival: “Dough,” an [email protected] [email protected] old Jewish baker struggles to keep his business afl oat until FRIDAY, MARCH 3 SUNDAY, MARCH 26 his young Muslim apprentice drops cannabis into the Soloway JCC Annual Biathlon: dough and send sales sky high. Third fi lm: March 4. Shabbat Dinner at KBI: Friday night services followed by Put together your team of Kehillat Beth Israel, 1400 Coldrey Ave., 7 pm. a traditional Shabbat dinner. 12, or be placed on a team, and spin and swim to help raise Info/RSVP: Cantor Daniel Benlolo, 613-728-3501, Kehillat Beth Israel, 1400 Coldrey Ave., 6 pm. funds for the Soloway JCC, 8:30 am. [email protected] Info: Anita Almstedt, 613-728-3501, Info: Carla Gencher, 613-798-9818, ext. 278, [email protected] [email protected] SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 SATURDAY, MARCH 4 Temple Israel Books and Bagels: “Yiddish for Pirates,” CANDLE LIGHTING BEFORE Saturday Night at the Movies with Chazzan Benlolo: by Gary Barwin, will be reviewed by Rubin Friedman. FEBRUARY 24 5:22 PM MARCH 10 5:41 PM The fi nal fi lm in a three-part Jewish fi lm festival: “Once In Temple Israel, 1300 Prince of Wales Dr., 09:30 am. MARCH 3 5:32 PM MARCH 17 6:51 PM A Lifetime,” a teacher tries to motivate her students by Info: Shayla Mindell, [email protected] challenging them to enter a national competition. BULLETIN DEADLINES KLEZ 10: Celebrating a decade in support of the Kehillat Beth Israel, 1400 Coldrey Ave., 7 pm. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 FOR MARCH 20 Ottawa Kosher Food Bank: An evening of KlezmerMusic Info/RSVP: Cantor Daniel Benlolo, 613-728-3501, MONDAY, MARCH 13 * FOR APRIL 3 performed by A Touch of Klez and Musica Ebraica with [email protected] * Early deadline: Community-wide Issue ** Early deadline: holiday closures

UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ACTIVITIES TAKE PLACE AT THE JOSEPH AND ROSE AGES FAMILY BUILDING, 21 NADOLNY SACHS PRIVATE

condolences

Condolences are extended to the families of: Florence (Fruma) Appotive Leonard Shifrin The Condolence Column Esther Baylin Joan Usheroff is offered as a public service Karen Vera Gunn Philip Wexler, Connecticut to the community. There is no charge. Ethel Naor (father of Matt Wexler) For listing in this column, please call 613-798-4696, ext. 274. Rabbi Yehuda Simes May their memory Voice mail is available. Teddy Sher be a blessing always.

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