THE WINDOW is published by Beth David B’nai Israel Beth Am, 55 Yeomans Road, Toronto, ON, M3H 3J7 Telephone: 416.633.5500 Fax: 416.633.1740 Web: www.bethdavid.com From the Rabbi 3 From the Executive Director 5 From the Cantor 6 Services Times 7 Ritual Matters 8 - 12 Beth David Singles50Plus 13 Club Chaverut 14 Brotherhood 15 Sisterhood 16 Families 17 Youth 18 Shinshinim and itanu 19 Adult Education 20 - 22 Membership 23 Gift Giving Opportunities 24 Our Congregation 25 - 31 Beth David 2017 CAPTURED Moments See Inside Cover 5778 Hanukkah Edition December 2017 - March 2018 Kislev - Adar 5778 THE WINDOW החלוןHAPPY HANUKKAH See page 7 for Service Times Beth David B’nai Israel Beth Am An Egalitarian Conservative Community Affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism Shabbat Shalom שבת שלום
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Beth David B’nai Israel Beth Am Shabbat Shalom THE … Window/Hanukkah-Window-2017-v5-email.pdfa Bat-Kol, a Heavenly voice proclaimed Beit Hillel the winner over Beit Shammai on
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T H E W I N D O W i s p u b l i s h e d b y B e t h D a v i d B ’ n a i I s r a e l B e t h A m , 5 5 Y e o m a n s R o a d , T o r o n t o , O N , M 3 H 3 J 7Telephone: 416.633.5500 Fax: 416.633.1740 Web: www.bethdavid.com
From the Rabbi 3 From the Executive Director 5From the Cantor 6Services Times 7Ritual Matters 8 - 12Beth David Singles50Plus 13Club Chaverut 14Brotherhood 15Sisterhood 16Families 17Youth 18Shinshinim and itanu 19Adult Education 20 - 22Membership 23Gift Giving Opportunities 24Our Congregation 25 - 31
Beth David 2017CAPTURED Moments See Inside Cover
5778 Hanukkah Edition December 2017 - March 2018 Kislev - Adar 5778
THE WINDOW החלון
H A P P Y H A N U K K A H
See page 7 for Service
Times
Beth David B’nai Israel Beth AmAn Egalitarian Conservative Community
Affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism
Shabbat Shalom שבת שלוםFebruary 28, 2015 9 Adar, 5775
Extreme Makeover
Opening Program outside Beth David
Evergreen Brickworks
3
From the Rabbi
Philip S. ScheimRabbi
“At a t ime when ex tremism threatens to divide our p e ople, the message of
Ha nuk kah assumes even greater imp or ta nce.
Lighting the Hanukkah candles is one of the most popular of Jewish
rituals, transforming what is a minor holiday in the Jewish calendar into a truly beloved festival. As we all know, we begin on the first night with one candle, and culminate on the final night with eight candles (plus the shamash, the auxiliary light). But this was not always standard practice, since our tradition records the ancient dispute between the schools of Shammai and Hillel, the Shammai school advocating eight lights the first night, and continuing each night in descending order, with one light on the eighth night.
Through most of Jewish history, we have followed the Hillel approach, beginning with one and ending with eight, based on the principle of “ma-alin ba-Kodesh,” that in matters of holiness, we always go higher. But the Shammai school had its reasons, equally valid, for lighting in the opposite fashion. So why did the Beit Hillel become the predominant school, with its opinions on a huge gamut of halakhic issues accepted, with the Beit Shammai opinions rejected?
Indeed, when forced to justify why a Bat-Kol, a Heavenly voice proclaimed Beit Hillel the winner over Beit Shammai on virtually all matters of law, the Talmud explains the reason being that the Hillelites were pleasant and unassuming, so much so that they went out of their way to teach their opponents’ view along with their own and, were that not enough, they would teach the other point of view before their own.
So why did Beit Hillel become the dominant school at the outset of the first millennium of the common era? Because they saw the spark of holiness in their opponents, no matter how bitter their arguments may have been over the years. No matter the hurts, the controversies, the disputes that had so divided them for so long, the School of Hillel recognized that they had what to learn from their opponents, and, even more important, that the continuity of Jewish learning, of Jewish practice, was dependent upon that willingness to be among those who are willing to learn from all, different allegiances and approaches notwithstanding.
The predominance in Jewish tradition of one approach over another was determined by a willingness to hear out the other side, by a belief that truth may not always rest with one group. Indeed, on only a few occasions did Beit Hillel modify its opinions to accord with the School of Shammai. But the possibility of such a rethinking always was there.
At a time when extremism threatens to divide our people, the message of Hanukkah assumes even greater importance. Yes, Hanukkah demands of us increased dedication to religious principle, to Jewish practice. But the way we celebrate the holiday, in the Beit Hillel tradition reminds us of the need, in our lives for open-mindedness and moderation, so that our community, through unity, will be strengthened.
“You are supporting everyone’s Jewish life through your involvement and financial
commitments to the Synagogue.
As I write this article, the High Holy Days are over and the
leaves have begun to fall. We know that winter is coming, and with it will come snow, cold and Hanukkah. This year to help chase away those winter blues we are having a Jazz Concert with our own Cantor Loomer on December 3rd, where we will draw the winner of our 50-50 Draw! Good luck to everyone to win the prize!
In October my husband Mark and I went to Israel for 10 days. It was a beautiful time of year to be in Israel and I hope many of you will be joining Michael Rubin on our congregational trip to Israel in October 2018.
While we were in Israel we attended the Rosh Hodesh Service at the Kotel with Women of the Wall. It was empowering to pray in such a large group of women, but disheartening to be treated so badly by many others who had come not to worship but to harass us. I felt incredibly grateful to be able to return to Beth David where men and women can pray as equals. We are privileged to belong to our inclusive
community, but we can always do better. Let us know how we can make sure everyone is counted and included.
To be truly counted and included I would ask you to look at your involvement at Beth David not as a category, or a place in time, i.e. “I’m a young family; or I’m a Synagogue elder; I only come three days a year or I come every Shabbat”. Instead look at your membership on a continuum; we may be in one place on the continuum this year and in a different place next year and the year after that. Our place on the continuum is constantly changing and as a community we try to respond and provide for all of our members at every stage.
Every one of us is a facilitator for everyone else on the continuum. You are supporting everyone’s Jewish life through your involvement and financial commitments to the Synagogue. It takes all of us to build a more welcoming community; to continue to make current members feel valued and welcome and to be
more inviting to non-members who are looking for their Jewish home.
It takes all of us to continue to build a strong, connected community for ourselves, our children and our children’s children.
Helene Jacobs, Administrator Lauren Weinberg, Youth and Communications Director
Beth David Executives 2017 / 2018
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No matter what age you are, the traditions of Hanukkah usually
conjure up feelings of excitement and good memories. As we get ready to rekindle (yes, pun intended) the candles, those memories come back to mind in a hurry. While commemorating the miracle of a one-day supply of oil lasting for eight days, we remember our own kindling of the menorah when we were children; had children and even enjoyed time with grandchildren. Every stage of life has meaning and added significance. We remember the excitement of setting up each menorah with our own candles and lighting them, saying the prayers loud and proud. Following that, we fondly remember standing around the lit candles, singing our favourite Hanukkah songs. Mi Yimalel and Maoz Tsur were my favourites.
It was long before the 649 lottery draws and Powerball lotteries that children (and adults) especially remember the games of dreidel. It was a time where everybody in the
house gathered their pennies (when we had pennies) AND prayed for a
“gimel” (please gimme a gimel) and prayed not to get a “shin”. Hopefully, the families of today have special phone free times to play a good game of dreidel.
Of course, being a holiday we mustn’t forget the food aspect. This often ends up being at the heart of every Jewish holiday. Representing the miracle of oil in your Hanukkah celebration, cook up some tasty potato latkes and follow those up with some mouth-watering pastry, such as rugelach, for dessert. The tradition calls for you to make them at home, not buying them in a store.
I guess those are the main traditions that we follow. Nothing else comes to mind at this time. Well, maybe something does. Perhaps we remember the gifts part, but let’s not let that be the defining moment of the holiday. A moment yes, but not the defining moment. Perhaps a teaching moment by giving a gift to those
who really need it, can be a future important memory for our children.
You may have had other Hanukkah holiday traditions that we’d love to hear about. Feel free to share them with me, and we’ll share them anonymously with members prior to the holiday. You can email your traditions to me at [email protected].
I have met many people since settling in as Executive Director at the end of the summer, and experienced many wonderful moments at shul. I look forward to continuing along that path in the future. Please come by and say hello, call or email me at [email protected] and say hi.
Chag Sameach
Great things are happening at Beth David and I hope you and your family will be a part of it all. See you in shul!
“ I have met ma ny p e ople since settl ing in as Exe cutive D ire c tor at the end of the
summer, a nd exp erience d ma ny wonder ful moments at shul.
Communicate with us!We are a community.
We are here for each other in good times and in bad. Have good news? Share it with the entire congregation by contacting Faye. We will share your good news when we email the weekly Shabbat Shalom.
Struggling with illness?Let us know. Our clergy would like to call or visit and lend the moral support that you and your loved ones need.
Latkes and applesauce or maybe sour cream, sufganiot
filled with jelly and smothered in powdered sugar. The aroma of fresh candles freshly lit or perhaps a wick in oil. You can close your eyes at any moment and picture a Hanukkah experience, perhaps as a child in your living room with your parents or maybe with your children standing near you with hopes and dreams of receiving gelt and playing dreydl.
When I close my eyes, I picture being in my living room on Kennard Avenue and singing Maoz Tzur with my father while Charley the cat meowed for another bowl of food, my father spoiled him with the leftover gefilte fish from a jar. Where does this melody come from anyway? It’s so famous you might think that it’s a Misinai tune like Aleinu. Well, let me share with you its origin.
The hymn Maoz Tzur is named
for its two words in Hebrew which mean “Stronghold of Rock” as a name or epithet for God. Maoz Tzur is thought to have been written in the 13th century, during the Crusades. The first letters of the first five stanzas form an acrostic of the composer’s name, Mordechai ben Isaac Ha-Levi who wrote the Shabbat hymn Mah Yafit.
The present melody for the Hanukkah hymn has been identified by Eduard Birnbaum as an adaptation from the old German folk song “So weiss ich eins, dass mich erfreut, das plumlein auff preiter heyde”, found in Bohme’s
“Altdeutsches Liederbuch” (No. 635); it was widely spread among German Jews as early as 1450. By the way, many of our traditional melodies such as Ein Keloheinu and Lecha Dodi were taken from German taverns. By an interesting coincidence, this folk melody was also the first utilized by Martin Luther for his German chorales.
He set it to a German song which means “Sing praise to God who reigns above”. Prior to being set to Maoz Tzur which we have become familiar with, it was clumsily used in Byron’s Hebrew melody “On Jordan Banks”. Since Eduard Birnbaum’s adaptation of this famous, well known melody, we have sung it around the world. I can’t even think of another melody to Maoz Tzur, can you? If you know another, please share it with me or maybe you’ll be inspired to compose one. Then, perhaps in four or five hundred years a Chazzan will write about your melody and its origin.
Chag Urim Sameach to everyone, I wish all of you a Hanukkah filled with spirituality and good health.
The aroma of fresh candles freshly l it or perhaps a wick in oi l . You can close your
eyes at any moment and picture a Hanukkah experience, . . . .
The Hanukkah Blessings
1. Ba-ruch a-tah A-do-nai, E-lo-hei-nu me-lech ha-o-lam, a-sher ki-de-sha-nu be-mits-vo tav, ve-tsi-va-nu, Ie-had-lik ner shel ha-nu-kkah. Blessed art thou, O Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has sanctified us by Thy commandments and commanded us to kindle the lights of Hanukkah.
2. Ba-ruch a-tah A-do-nai e-lo-hei-nu me-lech ha-o-lam, she-a-sah ni-ssim la-a-vo-tei-nu, ba-ya-min ha-haim, ba-ze-man ha--zeh. Blessed art Thou, O Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has brought miracles for our fathers, in the days of old at his season.
3. (Blessing recited on first night only) Ba-ruch a-tah A-do-nai, E-lo-hei-nu, me-ech, ha-o-lam, she-he-che-ya-nu ve-ki-ye-ma-nu, ve-hi-gi-ya-nu la-ze-man ha--zeh. Blessed art Thou, O Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has kept us in life and has preserved us, and enabled us to reach this season.
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Ritual matters
CandleLighting
Friday Evening
Saturday Evening
Sunday to Thursday
December 8 – 14 4:22 PM 4:30 PM 4:15 PM 4:45 PM
December 15 – 21 4:23 PM 4:30 PM 4:15 PM 4:45 PM
December 22 – 28 4:26 PM 4:30 PM 4:15 PM 4:45 PM
December 29 – January 4 4:31 PM 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 4:45 PM
January 5 – 11 4:37 PM 4:45 PM 4:45 PM 5:00 PM
January 12 – 18 4:45 PM 4:45 PM 4:45 PM 5:00 PM
January 19 – 25 4:54 PM 5:00 PM 4:45 PM 5:00 PM
January 26 – February 1 5:03 PM 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:15 PM
February 2 – 8 5:12 PM 5:15 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM
February 9 – 15 5:22 PM 5:15 PM 5:15 PM 5:30 PM
February 16 – 22 5:31 PM 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:45 PM
February 23 – March 1 5:41 PM 5:45 PM 5:30 PM 6:00 PM
March 2 – 8 5:50 PM 5:45 PM 5:45 PM 6:00 PM
March 9 – 15 5:59 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM
SYNAGOGUE SERVICE TIMES December 2017 - March 2018
MORNINGS:
Sundays 8:30 AM | Shabbat 9:00 AM | Monday – Friday 7 & 8 AM
SPECIAL MORNINGS:
Mon, Dec 25 – Tues, Dec 26 / 2017 Stat Holiday 8:30 AM ONLY
Wed, Dec 27 – Fri, Dec 29 / 2017 8:00 AM ONLY
Monday, January 1 / 2018 Stat Holiday 8:30 AM ONLY
Monday, February 19 / 2018 Family Day 8:30 AM ONLY
Sunday, March 11 / 2018 Daylight Savings Time Begins!
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Most different tropes – 5 or more Naomi Nemirov, Faye Major, Esther Meisels, Cantor Loomer.
First-time ever readers (at Beth David) or after many years of hibernation or new trope other than regular Torah or Haftarah!Lily Agensky, Yuval Arnesty, Matthew Balter, Sierra Benayoun-Abraham, Eitan Bitnun, Jonah Brotman, Evan Buckspan, Leor Cohen, Gal Davidi, Igor Ellyn, Paula Epstein, Laura Fisch, Jaden Gelman, Sophie Glickman, Jacob Herman, Noah Juravsky, Gina Kay, Barbara Kochberg, Paul Kochberg, Eden Kraft, Heather Lane, Aaron Long, Daniel Margaliyot, Marsha Moshinsky, Lyle Muskat, Yair Parl, Adele Randall, Brody Reingold, Kaylie Romano, Melanie Rosenblum, Jacob Saraga, Colby Schwartz, Ilene Shiller, Yuval Levy, Howard Simkevitz, Zoe Simkevitz, Rabbi Mark Smiley, Cody Stipelman, Leonard Vanek, Ethan Varkul, Mark Varkul, Erica Weinberg, Paul Weinberg, Susie Weinberg, David Winton, Jamie Wise, Yishai Wise.
80!! On Purim – 10 more than last year – Help us break the record for the 10th year in a row on February 28, 2018! We will also be looking into registering for a Guinness World Record!! You would not want to miss having your name included in that honour!!! If you count the total number of verses in the Megillah, you’ll realize there are not many opportunities remaining – reserve soon!!!
Ritual Director's Circle! – read at least 5 times during the year! Max Ander, Marcel Benlolo, Eitan Bitnun, Jeff Cooper, Rita Drutz, Eric Epstein, Karen Fainman, Arie Frohlich, Jacob Galper, Gitta Ganz, Ashley Kay, Paul Kochberg, Ken Kraft, Stephen Kraft, Morry Lewis, Cantor Loomer, Faye Major, Esther Meisels, Gayle Goldberg-Marcus, Molly Pascoe, Elise Rose, David Rubin, Bernie Schimmer, Avram Selick, Rosalie Selick, Morly Shoshan.
Read the same section most times in a year!Too close to call - Rita Drutz and Gitta Ganz – Rosh Hodesh!
Agreeing to read on shortest notice – less than 30 seconds!!Marcel Benlolo, Esther Meisels, Naomi Nemirov,
Refused to read: Dropped below 10% of those asked!
Categories for Tanach Reader Competition Results - 5777
Ritual matters
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Dear Members,As many of you are aware, it is no small challenge to ensure that we have a minyan in the evenings during the winter months when the service times range from 4:45 to 5:15 PM. We turn to you at this time to help us keep the evening minyan viable. Any evening you could attend would be appreciated, but your presence is especially needed on Friday evenings. We would ask that you commit to attending 2-3 evening services over the next few months and let us know in advance. Those of you who have come to say kaddish either as part of a yahrzeit observance or during the 30 days or 11 months know how meaningful it is to perform this act with the support of your own community and congregation. Thank you for taking on this important responsibility.
Kol Yisrael areivim ze lazeh! “All the people of Israel are
responsible for one another."
Purim Evening Megillah Reading Notice!Dear Proficient, Experienced or Considering it for the First Time Megillat Esther Chanter,It’s hard to believe we’re already thinking about Hamentaschen even before we've gulped down any latkes but, yes, you need to start considering your Megillah reading duties. For those of you who participated in last year's record-breaking event - 80 chanters! - it was great having you and I would love for you to do it again to help us break the record for the 10th year in a row! Not only that, but I would be happy if you were to read the same section as last year. What could be easier? Just a little review and you’re all set.For those of you who have never yet chanted Megillat Esther, this is your year to enter the fray! All you need to do is demonstrate willingness and I will be happy to provide you with all the necessary materials to be empowered to join this select group.The demand for readers has now reached close to maximum capacity.Please be in touch with me as soon as possible to confirm your place in the Beth David Purim tradition of Multiple Megillah Masters.You can reach me either by phone 416-633-5500 ext.23 or by e-mail [email protected] See you at the reading table on on Wednesday, February 28th, at 6 P.M. IN COSTUME!!Simchat Purim Alecha! The joy of Purim should be upon you! (after the joy of Hanukkah has somewhat dissipated) Michael Rubin, Your friendly congregational chanting promoter
Shabbat / Festival Parashah Haftarah Torah Shabbat December 16 Mikeitz – Hanukkah Available AvailableShabbat December 30 VaYechi Available AvailableShabbat January 6 Shemot Available AvailableShabbat January 13 VaEira Available AvailableShabbat January 20 Bo Available AvailableShabbat January 27 B’Shallach – Shirah Available AvailableShabbat February 3 Yitro N/A AvailableShabbat February 10 Mishpatim – Shekalim Available AvailableShabbat February 17 Terumah Available AvailableShabbat February 24 Tetzaveh – Zachor Available AvailableShabbat March 3 Ki Tissa Available AvailableShabbat March 10 VaYakhel-Pekudei – Parah Available AvailableShabbat March 17 VaYikra – HaHodesh - RH Available AvailableShabbat March 24 Tzav – HaGadol Available AvailableShabbat March 31 Pesach I Available AvailableSunday April 1 Pesach II Available AvailableFriday April 6 Pesach VII Available AvailableShabbat April 7 Pesach VIII – Yizkor Available AvailableShabbat April 14 Shemini Available AvailableSunday May 20 Shavu’ot I Available AvailableMondayMay 21 Shavu’ot II Available AvailableShabbat June 9 Shelach Available AvailableShabbat June 30 Balak Available AvailableShabbat July 7 Pinchas Available AvailableShabbat July 14 Mattot-Mas’ei Available AvailableShabbat July 21 Devarim – Hazon Available AvailableSunday July 22 Tish’ah b’Av – Morning Available AvailableSunday July 22 Tish’ah b’Av – Afternoon Available AvailableShabbat July 28 VaEtchanan – Nachamu Available AvailableShabbat August 4 Eikev Available AvailableShabbat August 11 Re’eh - RH Available AvailableShabbat August 18 Shofetim Available AvailableShabbat August 25 Ki Teitzei Available AvailableShabbat September 1 Ki Tavo Available AvailableShabbat September 8 Nitzavim Available AvailableShabbat September 15 VaYeilech – Shuvah Available Available
Read
ing
Op
enin
gs:
This corner is for those who would like to read Torah or a Haftarah in general, but also especially for anyone who might like to mark the anniversary of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration or Wedding Aufruf by reading from the same portion chanted on that special occasion. You will find here a list of upcoming Shabbatot & Festivals when there is no Simcha taking place at our Synagogue, meaning the Haftarah and any Torah reading is open to our members. If you are interested, please contact Michael Rubin directly by email at [email protected] and confirm your chanting assignment!Also, we would like to update our records of when your Bar/Bat Mitzvah took place. Please email Michael Rubin with details – Gregorian date and Parashah. We look forward to hearing you relive the excitement of that special day, however many years ago!
Tanach Reading Opportunity Corner
Ritual matters
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Ritual mattersBob Adler
Lily AgenskyMax Ander
Yuval ArnestyMatthew Balter
Sierra Benayoun-AbrahamIlan Benjamin
Marcel BenloloSamara Berenstein-Hendry
Chaim BernholtzMark Bernick
Barry BernsteinKaren BernsteinJenna BienstockJosh Bienstock
Howard BinstockElaine Bisgould
Eitan BitnunSarit Bitnun
Harvey BittermanBreanne Bornstein
Jonah BrotmanEvan BuckspanHartley Cohen
Leor CohenJeff Cooper
Anne CuttlerJacob Cuttler
Gal DavidiRita DrutzIgor Ellyn
Eric EpsteinPaula Epstein
Karen FainmanBeth Feffer
Elisheva FeldmanGuy FeldmanIdo Feldman
Hannah FinkelsteinLaura Fisch
Jordan FreedmanArie Frohlich
Simon FrohlichAlana GalperJacob Galper
Michelle GalperGitta Ganz
Sonny GanzJaden GelmanRuth Gerlock
Elah Gershon Rubin
Sophie GlickmanGayle Goldberg-MarcusAnne Goodman-Cuttler
Marilyn GreenspanMark Greenspan
Elia GrossSerena HackerMaya HartmanGabi Herman
Jacob HermanRael Herman
Brian HochmanLloyd Hoffer
Jordan JuravskyNoah JuravskyNorm KamanStephen Karr
Ashley KayGina Kay
David KochbergBarbara Kochberg
Paul KochbergAliza KraftEden KraftHarry KraftKen Kraft
Pearl KraftStephen Kraft
David LaneHeather Lane
Maya LaneMarla Levant Bornstein
Barry LevineLisa LevineSara Levine
Morrie LewisAaron Long
Marshall LoomerBaila LubekFaye Major
Aime MamanLawrie Manilla
Daniel MargaliyotEsther Meisels
David MidaIsrael Mida
Jacob MorrisMarsha Moshinsky
Lyle MuskatBen Nemirov
Jacob NemirovNaomi Nemirov
Stephen NemirovBrenda OslerMegan OslerPerry OslerMorry ParlReena Parl
Adele Goldberg and Andy Pascoe Barbara and Paul Kochberg
Hatan and Kallah Breishit Hatan and Kallah Torah
We acknowledge the generous contribution made by Janet and Jay Harris
" In honour of our children and grandchildren. L'dor V'dor."
This has been directed towards the maintenance and restoration of a number of our Sifrei Torah and will help to ensure that these scrolls will remain ritually available for the next generation.
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12
Ritual matters
Apples a'Plenty!
Again this year, as has been the case for more than ten years (!), we were the beneficiaries of the generosity of two seemingly anonymous donors who annually
contribute from their own orchards some of the best and tastiest apples this province has to offer! These succulent specimens are enjoyed by all those who come out for Simchat Torah celebrations. On behalf of the congregation, we wish to thank Nick Nasturzio and Jeff Hughes for adding this delectable experience and thus enhancing our Simchat Torah celebrations. Of course, a special thank you to Coleman Bernstein, who has been making this happen every year through his coordination of the gift. In this spirit, may we all be inspired to think of those who are less fortunate and find the opportunity to show our own generosity when called upon, and even before the call comes!”
Beth David Scholarships and Subsidies for USY programs and Study in Israel!
One of our synagogue’s great values is to encourage our young people – high school through university/college – to engage in activities and educational programs which help them explore and further enhance their Jewish knowledge and identity and/or their connection with Israel. This may take the form of a USY local or international convention, USY summer program in North America or Israel, Jewish summer camps, or other high-school or post-secondary educational experience in Israel.
We are aware of the often prohibitive cost for many of these programs. Fortunately, we have members who have generously allocated funds to help individuals participate. While we may only be able to subsidize such an experience partially, we know that amount can often make the difference in deciding whether to go or not.
If you or someone you know is interested in applying for a subsidy / financial aid for participation in such a program, please contact Michael Rubin at [email protected] for more information on the simple process involved.
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Beth David Singles50Plus
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Club Chaverut
RSVP to Rose Haspel at 905 764 8141by February 20, 2018
Club Chaverut members: $7.00 Non–members: $10.00Light refreshments will be served.
Sunday, February 25, 2018 1:30 PM The Ganz Family Social Hall
Sunday, January 28, 2018 1:30 PM The Ganz Family Social Hall
The York Jazz Ensemble“Classical Jazz favourites to lighten
your heart”RSVP to Rose Haspel at 905 764 8141
by January 23, 2018 Club Chaverut members: $7.00 Non–members: $10.00
Light refreshments will be served.
Sunday, December 10, 2017 1:30 PM The Ganz Family Social Hall
Rita and Friends“A trio of delightful entertainers” RSVP to Rose Haspel at 905 764 8141
by December 04, 2017
Club Chaverut members: $7.00 Non–members: $10.00Light refreshments will be served.
Sunday, March 18, 2018 1:30 PM The Ganz Family Social Hall
SHIR HARMONY “An exciting Jewish
choir, new to our stage”
RSVP to Rose Haspel at 905 764 8141by March 13, 2018
Club Chaverut members: $7.00 Non–members: $10.00Light refreshments will be served.
Michael Ziskind and Yitzak Aggaman
in Concert"Two of Toronto’s
most stellar entertainers”
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Brotherhood
Steven RisenmanPres ident
With the cold weather now upon us, I want to remind everyone
of the warmth your Brotherhood continues to provide that will heat you up during the chilly months. We continue to work hard and make you proud by having your Men’s Club stand out, in a positive manner, not only within the synagogue but the Toronto community as well. Based on information that was disseminated over the recent High Holy Days, I, as President of your Brotherhood, want to remind all synagogue members of the financial contributions and ongoing support that your Men’s Club has provided to the synagogue over the years. Your Men’s Club contributed $15,000 towards the Elevator Project, which now enables everyone to arrive at the sanctuary level with ease. Your Men’s Club contributed $2,500 towards the synagogue’s 60th Anniversary Gala and supported the event by having many of its members attend as well. We supported our own Alex Eisen, as he was named the 2016 JNF Honouree with several of our members in attendance. Over the past year, your Men’s Club contributed $5,000 towards the renovation of the Sisterhood Hall and its adjoining kitchen. We provided sponsorship, along with other very generous synagogue members, of the recent successful Cantor’s concert that was held this past May. As we have done for many years, we sponsored a congregation-wide Kiddush after Brotherhood Shabbat and also co-sponsored a special Congregational “Kiddush Club” Kiddush. For many years including this year, we honoured our Jewish Veterans, in both November and June, by organizing and leading Shabbat Services at Sunnybrook and providing a wonderful Kiddush to all attendees. In addition to these contributions, many members of your Men’s Club continue to support many other synagogue programs and events
through attendance or organizational assistance. We are proud of our past contributions and our support of Beth David and the Toronto Jewish Community and look forward to continuing our strong support for many years.
These updates not only review our successful programs that have occurred since the last Window but introduce our exciting upcoming events. All of our programs have been and continue to succeed through the tireless work and dedication of your Brotherhood Programming Committee, made up entirely of Brotherhood members under the direction of Steven Baker. In October, our opening program featured Dr. Mel Katzman, a long time Synagogue and Brotherhood member, a former Brotherhood President and the Chairman of the Board of Directors when the synagogue was built. Dr. Katzman spoke about Jewish Genealogy, a hobby of his for over 40 years that has become a passion and this resonated throughout his presentation. The large number of attendees were thoroughly entertained and educated as Dr Katzman untangled his families’ history which he traced back many generations. Along with his slide presentation, Dr. Katzman had a table full of documentation and pictures, which many attendees reviewed before and after the presentation. In November, we held a joint program with your Adult Education Committee as Israel Mida, a long time synagogue and Brotherhood member, presented
“Never Alone – reclaiming the memory of my family that perished during the Shoah”. Israel put together a significant presentation which included slides, pictures and documentation of his family’s history. This enhanced the story of the Mida Family’s emotional journey through the Holocaust and had the overflow crowd in attendance fixated on
Israel’s every word. It was a pleasure working with the co- Chairs of the Adult Education Committee – Baila Lubek and Rosalie Selick in what has become an annual event. On December 17, we are presenting a special musical program with Mikhal Kinkus and Friends. Mikhal is back by popular demand and I am sure the program will be well attended, as always. On January 21, 2018 we will be presenting a very special program – “The Italian Connection in the Christie Pits Riot” with Pal Di Iulio, a prominent member of the Toronto Italian Community. With the current rise in Anti- Semitism around the world, this program will highlight how the Italian Toronto community walked and fought with the Jewish Community against the Nazi supporters in August 1933 in the infamous Christie Pits riot.
Our February 2018 program is slated to have a special guest speaker and will be educational and thought provoking. Please watch your Shabbat Shalom and the Beth David website for information on these and other upcoming events.
If you have any suggestions for forthcoming programs, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am pleased to have all of you as members and look forward to seeing you at upcoming Brotherhood events.
I want to extend a special thank you to Helene Jacobs, Robyn Zajac-Cooper, Faye Major, Thanuja Perera, Jeev Logan and Ian Borer, for all their past, present and future assistance in ensuring all our Brotherhood programs have been, are and will be successful.
On behalf of the Risenman family, I want to wish everyone a Happy Hanukkah.
“ We are proud of our past contributions and our support of Beth David and the
Toronto Jewish Community and look forward to continuing our strong support for many years.
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Sisterhood
I am writing this article for the Hanukkah Window
from Eretz Israel where I have been since just after Yom Kippur. I arrived all excited to spend my first Sukkot here and was looking forward to going to the Kotel to see the Birkat haKohanim which I have only seen on the Internet. It was amazing to see the thousands of Jews there. While I was also looking forward to seeing the many Succahs in the old city, unfortunately my daughters’ father passed away the second day of Yom Tov. As a result, we were not able to do the trips we planned during Sukkot or the 7 days after Sukkot because the family had to sit shiva. Meanwhile my grandson Moshe was supposed to have his Bar Mitzvah at the Kotel on the Thursday the girls were getting up. The Bar Mitzvah had to be postponed by a day meaning it would occur on Rosh Hodesh. It turned out to be a beautiful service with Hallel and Musaf added and he did a marvelous job given he only had 2 weeks to learn the Rosh Hodesh layning. Then on Shabbat he also did a great job layning and doing the haftarah. As you say at a shiva, “you should only know simchas”.
On a different note, as is usual in Israel, there have been all kinds of protests disrupting traffic. In the past two weeks there were people with disabilities in wheelchairs blocking the major North-South highway by Tel Aviv, Haredi men on various highways, Women of the Wall at the Kotel and finally cows, who stopped traffic on the major highway between Modi’in and Jerusalem. Life in Israel is always interesting!!
I shall be back in time for our next Sisterhood Meeting. I want to wish you all a Chag Urim Sameach/ Happy
Hanukkah!
Ruth Shapiro Sisterhood President
Ruth Shapiro Pres ident,
Beth David Sisterhood
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FamiliesWe had a
great start to the year with a wonderful 'Back to School ' Kaballat Shabbat and Dinner, a creative Extreme Sukka decorating evening, and a fun Parsha Noah event for younger children. It's been fantastic to see all the participants come together at Beth David, from the group of children who made one giant chain decoration that made its way three quarters of the way around the Sukka, to seeing young children interact with spiders, bunnies and snakes, to the warmth of the Shabbat dinner.
We hope to see many of you at our pre-Hanukkah Latkes and Lights Havdallah on December 9th. We invite children to bring their parents and grandparents, and invite parents to bring their parents and children, and invite grandparents to bring their children and grandchildren. In other words, bring the whole mishpacha! For a bit of extra fun, think of the wackiest latke topping and submit it when you RSVP. When you come you'll see if your wacky topping made the list.
In 2018, we look forward to a Tu Bishvat Seder, our Purim carnival, and a Family Chocolate Seder.
Silvia Lulka Chair Families Committee
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Youth
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The Itanu Committee is committed to identifying and removing barriers to full participation in all aspects of shul life.
Examples of some of the initiatives we have successfully undertaken and completed thus far include the installation of the elevator, emergency exit ramp and accessible washroom on the lower level, the addition and reconfiguration of handicapped parking spots in the shul parking lot, the addition of magnifiers for sight-impaired congregants in designated siddurim, the relocation of the Torah reading to the main
level, and participation in the Toronto-wide initiative known as Shabbat Itanu.
With regard to the most recent Shabbat Itanu this past May 6th, we had a very successful, well-attended panel discussion with Rabbi Scheim and Lorne Sossin, Dean of Law at Osgoode Hall, York University speaking on “Our
Obligation To Be Inclusive: Portal To Participation.”
We are also very pleased that we have now been able to further enhance the accessibility of services in the sanctuary. An FM transmitter system has been installed which is compatible with hearing aids in which FM receivers are built in. For the convenience of congregants and guests who may not have hearing aids, necklace-style receivers can be borrowed during services. These receivers can be obtained by speaking with an usher upon entering the sanctuary.
We have also, for the 5th year in a row, provided Sign Language Interpreters for our deaf members during the High Holy Days, allowing them to fully participate, in real time, along with the congregation, and have access to all that is happening in the davening, including the Rabbi’s sermons and remarks throughout the services. The hiring of interpreters has radically changed the High Holy Day experience for these members.
Our committee is working on several other initiatives, including building an accessible washroom on the sanctuary level.
Should you have any questions, or ideas as to how the Itanu Committee can further enhance accessibility at Beth David, please contact our Committee Chair Cheryl Katz at [email protected] or any one of our Committee members including Maureen Ander, Karen Bernstein, Carey Drutz, Lew Lightstone, Barry Lubek or Naomi Nemerov.
Karen Bernstein
ShinshinimShinshinim Past and Present
Since commencing the position of lay leader at Beth David, many congregants have asked me about past Shinshinim. I have some information to share with you about their present accomplishments:
Gal Fuchs is a flight simulator instructor. She trains and teaches pilots how to use certain missiles. These missiles have a built in camera and the co-pilot needs to guide it to the target carefully and professionally.
Ishai Barbivay is a warrior in an “elite commando unit.” He finished training six months ago and was stationed in Jenin for two months. He was then sent back to boot camp and is now a commander of the rookie soldiers. He deals with the basics of being a soldier; discipline, fitness and knowledge of military equipment.
Noa Bezalel is working in the army as a Homefront Command Spokesperson.
Her partner Itay Kleinman has some words to share with the Beth David Community:
“Hey Beth David! Its been a while since I left, and I surely miss you! Since I left, I did hiking across Israel known as “The Israel National Trail.” I am now in the army for 10 months and hope to be a pilot in the Israeli Air Force. I am doing ground
training such as navigating skills. In two months from now, I will be practicing my flying skills. I hope that I will accomplish the course and join many others to make sure that we have a safe country to live in as a Jewish nation. Sincerely, Itay Kleinman.”
By now, I hope that most of you have had a chance to interact with our newest Shishiniot, Or Kaufman and Yuval Guetta. They have been hard at work bringing Israeli Culture to Beth David. On Rosh Hashanah, they did programs in all the services, including an interactive play in the family service. They assisted in teaching Israeli folk dancing on Simchat Torah. They attend shul on a weekly basis and prepare a Dvar Israel from the Bimah every other week as well as Shabbat’s Cool Programs every Shabbat. They teach at the Beth David Hebrew School every Monday. They demonstrated their Challah braiding techniques at our sold out “Challah Bake” We look forward to getting to know our Shinshiniot of 2017-2018 and benefitting from their knowledge and enthusiasm.Happy Chanukah!!Mindy Simon Lay leader, Beth David [email protected]
Gal and Ishai
Noa and Itay
Or and Yuval
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Adult EducationOur Israel at 70: An Exploration
2017-18
Participate Learn GrowAll programs require registration. Please check the website calendar at www.bethdavid.com or call Beth David
at 416-633-5500 or refer to the electronic board in the synagogue lobby for details and updates.
Yiddish Literature and LanguageSelf-Study Program with Anne Sokoloff
MONDAYS: 10:00 - 11:00 AMClasses will focus on readings and discussions of
The Family Carnovsky by Israel Joshua Singer
Classes
Shabbat Sidra Luncheons Led by members of the congregation following morning services.
Each session will include both lunch and a discussion of the Torah and Haftarah portions of the day.
DATE PARASHAT PRESENTERS December 2 Vayishlach Stephen Kraft March 24 Tzav Benjamin Levine April 14 Shmini Rabbi Philip Scheim May 12 Behar-Behukotai Cantor Marshall Loomer June 23 Hukkat TBA
Cost: $12
Our Women’s Study Group
JERUSALEM AS PERCEIVED THROUGH THE AGES:
FROM EARLIEST TIMES TO TODAYA Series of Nine Sessions
led by Rabbi Scheim and Ritual Director Michael RubinTuesdays 10:30 AM - 12:00 noon
December 12, 2017 and January 9, February 6 & 20, March 6 & 20, 2018
Congregation-wide Nosh ‘n Drosh
with various discussion leadersSaturday, February 10, 2018
after morning services
Group discussions of the parashah of the week - Mishpatim
Open to the entire congregation
Admission is free but advanced registration is required.
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Adult Education
Torah Trope Course - with Michael Rubin
Tuesdays 7:30-8:30 PMJanuary 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 2018
Class size will be limited.
If you have some basic Hebrew skills and the interest in empowering yourself with the
tools to properly and proficiently chant Torah, this course is for you!
for information and to place your ad.Full back page (colour) $750Full colour page $650 (Anywhere in book)Full Page black & white $400½ page $225¼ page $125
THE WINDOW החלוןB E T H D A V I D B ’ N A I I S R A E L B E T H A M The Window Notice!!!
The Window is published four times per year, in time for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukkah, Pesah and Shavuot, and distributed to all Beth David Members via mail and e-mail. In view of the increasing cost of printing and recent hikes once again in Canada Post rates, we will deliver the Rosh Hashanah Window and Pesach Window via mail and e-mail, while the Hanukkah and Shavuot Window will be delivered only via e-mail. Copies of the Hanukkah and Shavuot Window will also be available in the Beth David lobby and at the office. Thank you for your understanding and support.
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Inscribe a Book
High Holy Day Mahzor Lev Shalem $65 Reference Library Bible Collection $36 Reference Library Talmud Collection $36
Sefer HaHaftarot Scroll Scribal Dedications
High Holy Days Haftarot $1800Festival & Special Occasion Haftarot $1200Dedication of Weekly Haftarot $900 Illumination of a Haftarah $613Special Verse $360Word $72
For additional Sefer HaHaftarot dedication opportunities, please contact Michael Rubin at [email protected]
Cards
To send a Get Well, Condolence, or Special Occasion card, visit www.bethdavid.com or
call the Beth David office, 416 633 5500 Ext. 28
Support Beth David through any of these donation opportunities.A receipt for Income Tax purposes will be issued annually for all contributions of $18.00 and over.
Charitable Registration No. 11880 4616 RR001
Gift Giving Opportunities
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B’nai Mitzvah
Jay Harris has been awarded a fellowship
by the Chartered Professional Accountants for outstanding community service.
Nathan Yonash
Son of Chana Boxer & Roy Yonashbrother of Oren and Evenn,
grandson of Jackie & Al Boxer, Maggie & Danny Yonash.
Jack Elkind
Son of Randi Elkind,grandson of Donna Elkind and
David Elkind z”l.
Mazal Tov
Moshe Andrew Ryan Chelsky, son of Rebecca & Steven Chelsky, brother of Benjamin & Natan,
grandson of Ruth Shapiro & Brenda & Sid Chelsky became Bar Mitzvah in Israel in October.
Ruth Silver is thrilled to announce the birth of her great granddaughter
Olivia Sloan born September 28, 2017.
Parents are Mara and Adam Banack. A sister for brother Cole Leslie.
Kyle and Rachel Harris announce with much joy the arrival of their first child Benjamin Samuel. Delighted grandparents are Jay and Janet Harris, Rick Anderson and Audrey Karlinsky.Very happy great grandparents are
Frances and Lawford Harris,
Ralph and Nancy Florence and Julius Karlinsky.
Mazal Tov to Al & Mimi de Castro and Colin & Berthe Morris
on the birth of a great grandson Liam Caleb
born on October 29, 2017.
Excited parents are Azi Kochman & Abigail Morris. Proud grandparents are Stephen & Cindy Morris and
Stan & Ann Kochman.
Booking a simcha for 2018 - 2020!
Do you have a son born in 2005 or a daughter born in 2006?
It's not too soon or too late to book your Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration.
If you are looking for 2018 to 2020 bookings, you can book your simcha now!
Please contact Robyn Zajac-Cooper 416-633-5500 Ext 35 or
Jake & Sheila KornblumPaul & Fran LevineSimon LightmanCarl Mahoney & Robyn PerlmutarJacquie & Harold OppenheimerNancy PruskinEster & Isaac RatzAndrew RismanLawrence & Bella RittenbergPhillip RubinoffAnn & Solomon SamsonLorraine & Allan ShepsCharles Soroka & Bonnie Yashinsky
Rose SteinAllen & Lynda WeinbergDavid & Lorraine Weinniger
Special Breakfast Jerry & Georgi BagelmanSteven BakerChaim & Jean BernholtzRoma BuchmanAlex EisenMark & Linda FrydmanHoward & Fay GanzLeonard & Celia Golberg
Thank you Donations from August 2017 to October 2017
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Sue & Stan GoldfarbFrances & Lawford HarrisMorrie & Eileen HermanJacquie & Harold OppenheimerMiriam OrbachJerry & Sharon PaskowitzNancy PruskinPhilip ScheimJeffrey & Aviva ShiffSyd StreicherMitchell Zeifman & Natalie Riback
KiddushMax & Lillian AnderSusan & Lawrence CohenPaula & Stan EpsteinTara & Gregory GelmanIan Hendry & Karen BernsteinPaul & Barbara KochbergAndy Pascoe & Adele GoldbergLorraine & Allan Sheps
Seudah ShlishytLaurie & Mark BernickHarvey BittermanBeth FefferJake & Sheila KornblumRob & Susan RosenblatNorman ShelsonLeonard Vanek & Arlene Lax
Shabbat Shalom SponsorshipMaureen AnderHoward & Suzanne BinstockPaul & Barbara Kochberg
Rabbi's FundJerry & Georgi BagelmanFaye BaineBarbara BermanLeona EligbergLynda & Jeffrey EngelSheila FrohlichKen & Sharon FullerManya GilbertAlma & Leonard GoodmanSteven Hacker & Jennifer LazarEsther KirshenblattPaul & Barbara KochbergFaye KushnirMorry & Roslyn LewisKlara MarekJack & Charlotte MuskatJack & Carol NobleShelli & Joey Pollock
With the end of the 2017 tax year fast approaching, now is the time to complete your Tzedakah commitments to Beth David for this year.
As part of your Hanukkah gifting, consider a more meaningful year-end top donation in honour of a loved one to a Shul fund of your choice. All amounts, large or small are welcome.
Dedicate a Stained Glass Window in the Ganz Family Social Hall
$15,000
Plaque Dedications A Row of Seats in the Chapel - $2500 A Single Seat in the Sanctuary - $750
Memorial Board Yahrzeit Plaque - $600
Dedicate a Leaf on the Tree of Life $360
Establish an Endowment (Minimum $5,000)
Your gift is fully receipted and is invested so the income earned becomes an annual amount paid annually to Beth David.
Donation of Public Company Shares Your donation receipt will be equal to the value of the
shares and the capital gain accrued on the shares is tax free.
Israel Mida Lorraine Levene Ian Borer Capital Campaign Chair Fundraising Chair Executive Director
For further information on the Beth David Giving Programme, contact the shul office at 416-633-5500