Thursday, October 17, 2024
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The week of October 25, 2024
Special Envoy Deborah Lyons coming to HBT, Antizionist Conference at U of T, CJPAC’s Year of Political Action
Please join us at Holy Blossom Temple for an important conversation with Canada’s Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, Deborah Lyons on Wednesday, November 13th at 7:00 pm. Special Envoy Lyons will inform us about her ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism, discuss the challenges faced by Jewish Canadians as they grapple with a historic rise in antisemitism, and engage in a moderated conversation with members of the Holy Blossom Temple Advocacy Committee.
On November 8, University of Toronto will, regrettably, host a conference titled “The Anti-Zionist Idea: History, Theory and Politics.” This conference amplifies “notorious terror apologists and disguises antisemitic ideas as academic discourse.” Legitimizing these voices can only continue to foster hatred and hostility, endangering our students. Hillel Ontario asks that you add your voice to theirs and share your concerns with the leadership of University of Toronto.
CJPAC (the non-partisan Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee) has launched a year of political action to galvanize and mobilize the Jewish community and our allies. You can learn more about CJPAC’s three-pronged approach here. “With the possibility of a federal election being called anytime in the year ahead, there’s no time to wait.” Together we can go beyond the voting booth to strengthen our democracy.
By Karen Cohen, HaTzipporim Committee
You might be expecting a review for a restaurant on Spadina after a quick glance at the title of this article. The article’s purpose is actually to share an update on what Holy Blossom’s HaTzipporim (Empty Nesters) are doing this fall. Read on to learn more about our season opener last month, a very informative walk through Toronto’s Jewish History (the Spadina connection), and stay tuned to the end of the article to learn about how our upcoming November 3 event relates to a sandwich.
A large group turned out for our walk, led by dynamic guide Sharoni Sibony. As a relative newcomer to Canada, I was curious to learn about the Jewish history of this area, and happy that I would have Jewish peers with me during the experience.
Our tour started at the Kiever Shul, where Sharoni provided us with background information about Jewish immigration to Toronto and showed us the beautiful sanctuary. From there we walked to Nassau Street, to hear about the local Jewish bootlegger families who used to do business there. We learned that the son of one of the bootleggers was Sammy Luftspring, the featherweight boxing champion. We also visited Shoichet’s Alley, off Kensington Avenue, where families brought their live chickens to be slaughtered, now home to several colourful murals (see the photo). We noted various ways the market area has changed over the years, most notably the non-Jewish populations now predominant. Our final stop was outside the Minsker Synagogue (see the photo) and the old site of the Toronto Labor Lyceum. As we walked between stops I enjoyed chatting with other folks attending the tour.
Sharoni’s descriptions of the reasons people left Europe to settle here and the movement of the Jewish population through different neighbourhoods in the city tied in with my sense of being part of the story of Jewish migration. The tour made me curious to learn more about my own family’s relationship to Toronto, the city where my great-grandparents first lived when they came to North America and hence where my grandfather was born. I subsequently reached out to relatives and was able to find the house on Borden Street where they lived before moving to Detroit.
Sharoni had explained that although some of the old houses looked big, they often had many immigrants living in them together. I wondered who else might have lived in that house with my grandfather’s family.
Another aspect of the tour that intrigued me was learning about contributions that Jews made to non-religious community institutions such as the Toronto Labor Lyceum, the headquarters for some of the trade unions. Established by Henry Dworkin and Sam Easser, it also provided a place for social and cultural events. We learned that Henry Dworkin’s wife, Dorothy Dworkin, who was trained as a nurse and midwife, was a driving force behind the creation of Mount Sinai Hospital.
While Dorothy Dworkin was a caregiver in a very public way, at our HaTzipporim stage of life many of us are caregivers privately for children, spouses, aging parents, or some combination of those. Sandwiched between generations who need our support, we are sometimes referred to as the “sandwich generation.” With this in mind, we will be meeting with lawyer Felice Kirsh at Holy Blossom at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 3 to explore the emotional, mental, physical, legal, and financial aspects of caregiving. We will learn from her expertise, share our own experiences, and support one another as we reflect on the varied aspects of this journey. Treats from Holy Blossom will be provided and all are welcome.
To register for the caregivers’ session, go to https://holyblossom.org/event/hatzipporim-empty-nesters-presents-lets-talk-about-caregiving/
Many of the historical sites and stories from our walk can be explored further at https://ontariojewisharchives.org.
HaTzipporim (Empty Nesters) is a peer group for Holy Blossom Temple members in late midlife. It meets roughly once a month, offering topical programming, Jewish religious and cultural events, and social gatherings. The topical sessions are designed to be relevant for the stage of life when many are in the “sandwich generation,” navigating transitions related to having young adult children and/or aging parents, or are looking towards career changes or next chapters. For more information, contact [email protected].
By: Anne Dublin
Sheila Smolkin (née Joyce) was born in Ottawa in 1945. Her parents were Walter Joyce and Mary Sedgewick Joyce. They both graduated from Victoria College, University of Toronto in 1940 where they majored in Math and Physics. Mary was one of only two or three women in her class at that time; Walter was a teacher who went on to become a principal at several high schools in Ottawa.
The oldest of four children, Sheila was raised in a United Church family. After high school, she moved to Toronto where she planned to study Household Economics at Victoria College, U of T. However, in 1963, this department became The Faculty of Food Sciences, a change that meant she could no longer live at Victoria College. Fortunately, University College allowed her to stay there for her first year. She obtained her BSc in Food Sciences in 1967.
Meanwhile, Sheila met Bob Smolkinon a blind date during her first year at UC. They continued dating until Sheila graduated. They got married that same year. The couple joined Holy Blossom and Sheila took classes there with Rabbi Michael Stroh from 1966 to 1967. She converted to Judaism—both because it was important to Bob and because she was attracted to the religion.
Sheila began a master’s program in nutrition at U of T and graduated with an MSc in 1969. However, she soon realized that she didn’t want to become a research scientist (and experiment on white rats!), so she began a new path and obtained a bachelor’s degree in library science the following year. Sheila got a job quickly. First, at the David Dunlop Observatory library; then in the Science and Medicine Library at U of T.
When Sheila had her first (of three) children in 1974, she decided to be a “stay-at-home” mom. By then, Bob had graduated from law school and was practising as a real estate lawyer.
Sheila wanted to become more involved with Temple. She answered an ad in the Bulletin for volunteers in the Sisterhood Library. She was gladly accepted and eventually became chair of the library committee. Because of her talent and commitment, she was then asked to be on the Sisterhood Board. One portfolio led to another until Sheila became President of Sisterhood from 1991 to 1993. Her outstanding leadership and organizational abilities were recognized. Sheila became a member of the Temple Board, then the Executive, and eventually “worked her way up” to becoming President of Temple (2000–2002).
That’s not all. In 1981, David Hart, who was chair of the Archives committee, asked Sheila to help celebrate Temple’s 125th anniversary. Of course, Sheila accepted the challenge! In Sheila’s modest and unassuming way, she states that she has been happy since that time to continue her work in the Archives. Not so long ago, she helped to organize Temple’s 150th anniversary!
Sheila continues to be active in the Archives and is also a regular at the Saturday morning Torah study. She feels extremely grateful for her involvement in Temple, for she asserts that Temple has helped her live a rich Jewish life. May her strength and commitment continue for many years to come!
Rosh Chodesh, meaning head of the month, is a holiday celebrating the arrival of a new moon. All genders are welcome to join Women of Holy Blossom and pray in solidarity with Israel’s Women of the Wall in sacred worship for 7:30 am Shacharit services (9:00 am on Sundays and statutory holidays), followed by a light breakfast.
Learn more & join us in sacred worship to celebrate Shelia Smolkin here
Rabbi Yael Splansky
After such a hard and heavy year, this High Holy Day season was particularly moving. Welcoming so many new members and seeing so many young families is evidence that the Jewish future is bright.
Temple President Phyllis Denaburg and Executive Director, Rachel Malach join me in wishing everyone another round of blessings for the new year and another round of thanks to the many people who contributed skill and precious time to make our twenty-five services so meaningful. At the risk of missing someone, here is evidence of how it really does take a village to bring our congregation together for prayer, contemplation, and celebration. (If we have inadvertently missed someone here or misspelled a name, first, please forgive us and let us know by contacted JoAnne at [email protected], so we can properly acknowledge you.)
Some have asked for copies of the Rabbis’ sermons. Follow this link. You can also revisit the High Holy Day melodies and Services by following this link. I am most grateful to my colleagues, Cantor David Rosen and Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers, Rabbi Sam Kaye, Rabbi Eliza McCarroll, and Rabbi Taylor Baruchel for bringing their whole selves to every bimah.
Our Torah and Haftarah Readers bring honour to our sacred texts. They practice for months to ensure every letter and every note elevates the occasion. Under the leadership of Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers they are:
Adam Sniderman, Adam Sol, Alberto Quiroz, Alexander Chris, Austin Warwick, Brenda Saunders, Camille Lisser, Chloe Fruitman, Cynthia Good, Daniel Abramson, Denise Gordon, Eli Sol, Ellen Lupu, Ellie Davidson, Ethan Steen, Harper Fine, Jeff Denaburg, Jesse Sol, Jill Kamin, Joan Garson, Lin Chow-Feldman, Lindsay McLean, Lisa Isen-Baumal, Lisi Tesher, Maddie Axelrod, Mike Morgulis, Milo Gould, Rob Steiner, Ruby Abramson, Susan Baskin, Ted Shafran
A Gabbai is like the stage manager, who ensures that our bimah rituals are performed inclusively and gracefully. Under the leadership of Jane Herman, Alberto Quiroz, and Rabbi Kaye our High Holy Day Gabbaim are:
Adam Cohen, Albert Oppenheimer, Alberto Quiroz, Avra Rosen, Eric Roher, Etienne Kaplan, Jane Herman, Joan Garson, Les Rothschild, Mark S. Anshan, Paul Kay, Phyllis Denaburg, Richard Feldman, Sam Sapera, Seanna Cohen, Susan Baskin
Our Ushers fulfill the essential mitzvah of hospitality, ensuring that everyone is safe and comfortable. Under the leadership of Gerry Prendergast, Bob Cooper, Rachel Malach, and Bridgedat Ramcaran, our High Holy Day Ushers are:
Arlene Roth, Arnold Englander, Aubrey Birenbaum, Avra Rosen, Bambi Katz, Bruce Arron, Carole Sterling, Chase Halliday, David Hertzman, David Sadowski, David Tartick, Etienne Kaplan, Fern Lebo, Gael Gilbert, Gail Goodman, Gary Goodman, James Karrel, Jeff Denaburg, John Morrissey, Judy Adler Lotin, Judy Winberg, Karen Kollins, Kathy Morrissey, Michael Ryval, Mitchell Toker, Paul Kay, Phyllis Denaburg, Rob Herman, Sheila Smolkin, Sue Rebick, Susan Mogil, Terry Yanowski, Elieen Tishauer
Holy Blossom Temple is extremely fortunate to have a wonderful Security Committee made up of members, led by Andrew Kirsh and Rachel Malach, with significant expertise in the area of security, both physical and virtual
Bob Cooper, Gerry Prendergast, Jonathan King, Simeon Olsberg, Richard Toker, Bridgedat Ramcaran
Congregant-physicians are on-call and strategically placed throughout our prayer spaces. In addition to the first responders on site, these devoted congregants are here, should anyone need medical attention. Under the leadership of Gerry Prendergast, they are:
Dr. Hannah Davis, Dr. Ira Bloom, Dr. Jacqui Willinsky, Dr. Jeffrey Meyers, Dr. Matthew Baron, Dr. Michal Coret, Dr. Rhonda Wilansky, Dr. Yoel Abells
Our Shofar Blowers call us to attention throughout the month of Elul and ring in the new year with kavanah (soulful intention). Under the leadership of Cantor Rosen they are:
Eli Sol, Howard Goodman, Jay Brodbar, Joel Lehman, Mark Weinstock, Michael Cole, Peter Dan, Rachel Malach, Robin Malach, Sam Mogil, Sam Sapera, Stephan Solyom, Stephen Tile, Steven Dan, Tal Maissner
Our Greeters are the first friendly faces you see as you approach Holy Blossom Temple. They answer our questions and point us in the right direction. Under the leadership of Sheila Weinstock, Caroline Ingvaldsen, and Rabbi McCarroll, our High Holy Day Greeters are:
Adam Shafran, Barbara Hodes, Daniel Wilson, Helena Fine, Joan Garson, Karen Mock, Olga Dunaevsky, Peter Dan, Phyllis Denaburg, Robin Mammot, Sandi Smith, Sharon Neiss-Arbess, Sheila Smolkin, Vlad Dunaevsky
Our Take-a-Break Rooms are popular destinations during our Family Services. These amazing teen leaders were there to greet them.
Emma Haras, Isaiah Gould, Nicole Polak, Sam Mogil
Hundreds of congregants greet the new year by participating in the bimah rituals. This takes two months of detailed planning. Coordination of Mitzvah-Honours, supported by JoAnne Bieman and Tali Katz, are thanks to these two extraordinary volunteers:
Judy Adler Lotin, Karen Abells
It is our custom each Yom Kippur afternoon to pause from our worship for many simultaneous Study Sessions. We are grateful to our many Teachers and hosts, who were supported by Rabbi McCarroll and Kate Wootton.
Ambassador Bob Rae, hosted by Hershell Ezrin and Barry Campbell
Ellie Tesher and Lisi Tesher, hosted by Dr. Bernard Goldman
Eric Beck Rubin, hosted by Mark Goodman
Justin Chow, hosted by Abby Snider and Lin Chow Feldman
Rabbi Shalom Schacter, hosted by Andrea Katz and Daniel Abramson
Sharoni Sibony, hosted by Mark Schlossberg
Wendy Melvin
Wendy Solomon, hosted by Susan Cohen
Independent Study in our Library, hosted by Sheryl Johnston
In addition to our Rabbis and Cantors, congregant-volunteers and professionals help to lead our services. Thanks to their talents and devotion, we are able to offer services designed for every life stage.
Elana and Les Hunter, Creative Collaborators for our Little Blossoms Services
Josh Nezon, Family Service and Little Blossoms Service Leader
Dr. Mark Weinstock, Family Service and Young Readers Service Leader
Ayla Smolash, Young Readers Service Leader
Temple Singers, under Cantor Rosen’s baton and supported by Iris Spitz
Susan Baskin, Karen Cohen, Ellen Cole, Susan Cohen, Anne Dublin, Vlad Dunaevsky, Olga Dunaevsky, Helena Fine, Denise Gordon, Barbara Grossman, Ron Hart, Caroline Ingvaldsen, Jill Kamin, Dana Lowi-Merri, Catherine Mayers, Sharon Smith-Miller, Shelley Miller, Lew Molot, Eva Ormut, Sylvia Papernick, Dena Perlmutar, Beth Roher, Joanne Roher, Paula Rosen, Shoshana Sage, David Sandler, Sandi Schafer, Saul Ship, Paula Warren, Sheila Weinstock
Special Vocal Appearances by:
Joel Glickman Rosen
Sarah Newstadt
Professional Choir and Musicians, under the direction of Jason Jestadt, pianist and Musician-in-Residence
Beth Silver, Paul Ormandy, Gordon Brown, Melody Bell, Shannon Halliwell, Andrea Ludwig, Jennifer McCallum, Gwyneth Sestito, Mark Wood-Salomon, David Yung, Nadia Adler
And finally, thanks to our amazing team of Holy Blossom professionals, led by our Executive Director, Rachel Malach. Because of them, all the pieces of the High Holy Day puzzle come together as one seamless whole.
Adrian Ramcaran, Amanda Luu, Amy Lester, Ari Iroanwusi, Bridge Ramcaran and our Security Team, Cindy Zimmer, Dalia Alalouf, Dante Thorne, Deanna Levy, Ela Paz, Ella Vatagsky, Iris Spitz, Jaivahn Johnson, JoAnne Bieman, Kate Wootton, Lindsay Mockler, Lisa Isen Baumal, Mark Hodgson, Marni Turner, Mercy Afuye, Neomi Offman, Pavel Gurvich and our Tech Team, Prakash Singh, Rebekah Lobosco Gilli, Sarina Shrestha, Shira Lester and our Kol Nidre Appeal Team of Leaders, Sophie Rivers, Tali Katz, Wendy Himmel
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1950 Bathurst Street, Toronto, ON, M5P 3K9
(416) 789-3291
[email protected]
Emergency Funeral Contact
Cell: 416-565-7561
Founded in 1856, Holy Blossom Temple is Toronto’s first synagogue with a rich history of tradition and modernity in our religious and spiritual expression.