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DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250502T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250214T173817Z
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SUMMARY:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock
DESCRIPTION:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock\n3 times available: 10:00 am\, 11:00 am\, and 12:00 pm\n9 Weeks: March 21\, 28 April 4\, 25 May 2\, 9\, 23\, 30\, and June 6 \n0 – 5 years of age \n  \nRegister here! \n  \nJoin us on Friday mornings for Shabbat music\, stories\, and more. Dr. Marky (MD\, MEd) is an award-winning entertainer and respected educator with over 20 years of experience running Shabbat programs that inspire and help stimulate your child’s motor and language development. Welcome\, Shabbat with a smile and song in your heart!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/little-blossoms-with-marky-weinstock-2/2025-05-02/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LittleBlossoms2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250502T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250502T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250313T202117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T193703Z
UID:10018582-1746187200-1746192600@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Israel Dialogues Spring 2025
DESCRIPTION:Israel Dialogues Spring 2025\nMarch 28\, April 2\, April 11\, May 2\, 8\, 22\, 29 12:00 pm (online only) \nwith thanks to our Israel Dialogues Organizing Committee and our expert panellists \n  \nRegister here \n  \nFriday\, March 28\nDr. Shay Menuchin\nLegal Perspectives on Dawning Events in Israel\nOur Member Shay Menuchin was admitted to practice as a lawyer in both New York State and Israel. Holds a PhD in law from the London School of Economics and Political Science. From a legal perspective\, he will discuss the evolving situation with the leadership of the Shin Bet\, the Attorney General\, and the ongoing battle between the courts and the legislature. \nWednesday\, April 2\nRabbi Ammiel Hirsch\nIsrael in Crisis: A Jewish Diaspora Response\nRabbi Ammiel Hirsch of the Steven S. Wise Free Synagogue in New York will join us on WEDNESDAY April 2nd. Rabbi Hirsch is the former Executive Director of ARZA and last year was named one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world by the Jerusalem Post. Rabbi Hirsch is one of the foremost proponents of Jewish peoplehood and Zionism in the Reform Movement. Rabbi Hirsch is joining us for the first time. His presentation is titled “Israel in Crisis: A Jewish Diaspora Response.” \nFriday\, April 11\nProf. Asher Susser\nTrump\, the Arabs and the New Middle Eastern Balance of Power\nDr. Asher Susser will return right before Pesach on April 11th. Dr. Susser is Professor Emeritus of Middle Eastern History at Tel Aviv University (TAU). He was the Director of the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern Studies at TAU for twelve years and taught for over thirty-five years in TAU’s Department of Middle Eastern History.  Dr. Susser’s most recent book is Jordan\, Palestine\, and the Politics of Collective Identity – A History. (Boulder & London:  Lynne Reiner\, 2024) \nFriday\, May 2\nWith Amb. (ret’d) Scott Proudfoot\n The Israeli-Palestinian conflict: a Canadian diplomatic perspective\nDouglas Scott Proudfoot is a retired foreign service officer who served in Nairobi\, Delhi\, Vienna (IAEA)\, London\, Ramallah\, Juba\, Bamako and Montreal (ICAO). From 2016-2019 he was Canadian Representative to the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah and resided in East Jerusalem. During that time\, he travelled frequently to Gaza as well as all parts of the West Bank\, while also representing Canada on the UNRWA Advisory Commission. \nThursday\, May 8\nDr. Michal Hatuel-Radoshitzky\nBeyond the Headlines: Understanding Israel’s Legitimacy Challenges on the Global Stage\nThe anti-Israel grassroots campaign is not a new phenomenon. Since October 7\, 2023\, however\, anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiment appears to have intensified. While multiple polls attest to the latter\, the former phenomenon in which Israel is delegitimized is difficult to quantify and assess. In this session\, we will unpack grassroots efforts to dent Israel’s international positioning since October 7\, along with pro-Israel pushback efforts\, in six key arenas: academic\, culture\, digital\, economy\, legal and sports. The findings presented in this session are based on research conducted by the MIND Israel team\, culminating in February 2025. \nPrior to joining MIND\, Michal held various managerial and research positions in the academic\, philanthropic\, and civil-society sectors\, including at the Azrieli Foundation\, the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS)\, the Institute for Inclusive Security\, and the Geneva Initiative (HL Education for Peace). She is a Founding Member of Forum Dvorah: Women in Foreign Policy and National Security and an adjunct lecturer at Tel Aviv University. Her research focuses on soft challenges for Israel in the international arena\, including legitimacy issues\, relations with the Western world (Europe and the US)\, international organizations and Israel-Diaspora Jewry relations. \nRead: Theorizing state stigmatization: A comparative perspective on South Africa and Israel \nThursday\, May 22\nBen Murane\nCivil Society:  from Progressive to Extremist in Israeli Society\nBen Murane is the Executive Director of the New Israel Fund of Canada and a leading voice of millennial engagement with Israel. For over twelve years\, Ben has led at the intersection of Jewish life\, social justice\, and Israel. He previously worked for NIF’s U.S. branch\, won Jewish innovation awards for his work in environmentalism and campus life\, and founded both online and offline Jewish communities. In 2012\, he received the prestigious Dorot Leadership Fellowship in Israel\, where he studied Zionism and worked at a political think tank. \nThursday\, May 29\nProf. Gabriel Ben-Dor\nIsrael in a New and Uncertain Regional Strategic Environment:  a Conversation\nGabriel Ben-Dor  is Professor of Political Science at the University of Haifa in Israel. He holds a doctorate in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies from Princeton University in the United States. He served as the Rector of the University\, and also held the posts of Chairman of the Department of Political Science\, Director of the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies\, and Dean of Research. Previously he held the elected position of President of the Israel Political Science Association. Until recently he directed the graduate study program at the National Defense College\, the highest course of the studies in the Israeli Defense Forces. He was also the founder and director of the National Security Studies Center at the University of Haifa. He has recently completed a six-year term as a member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Middle East Studies. For over twenty years Ben-Dor lectured at the Royal College of Defense Studies in London\, England\, one of the leading institutions for national security affairs in the world. \n 
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/israel-dialogues-spring-2025/2025-05-02/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IsraelDialogues_MC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250503T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250503T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250116T163314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250116T163314Z
UID:10018411-1746268200-1746273600@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Family Shabbat!
DESCRIPTION:Family Shabbat 😄\nMonthly\, Saturday mornings\, 10:30 am \nShabbat is for families at Holy Blossom! Join us on Saturday mornings for a lively and interactive Family Shabbat\, where you can come just as you are for some #JewishJoy. Together\, with our rabbis and songleaders\, we’ll celebrate with joyful music\, engaging stories\, fun games\, and obligatory snacks. After the service\, everyone is invited to Kiddush\, with a special space just for Family Shabbat folks to connect. \nWe can’t wait to welcome you to our Youth Chapel!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/family-shabbat/2025-05-03/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/FamilyShabbat_2024.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250503T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250503T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250416T163402Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T181824Z
UID:10018617-1746268200-1746279000@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Celebrate our Volunteers!
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate our incredible volunteers for National Volunteer Week 2025!\nSaturday\, May 3\, following Shabbat Morning Service \nJoin us for Kiddush Lunch following Shabbat Morning Service on May 3 in honour of our wonderful volunteers at Holy Blossom Temple. Please join us for Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 am\, followed by Kiddush in the Schwartz / Reisman Atrium to celebrate the end of National Volunteer Week!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/celebrate-our-volunteers/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/HBTVolunteers2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250504T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250504T110000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250416T172312Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T162431Z
UID:10018618-1746351000-1746356400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Consecration Coffee & Schmooze for Senior Kindergarten Parents
DESCRIPTION:Consecration Coffee & Schmooze for Senior Kindergarten Parents\nSunday\, May 4\, 9:30 am \n  \nThis is an opportunity for parents of all children who are SK-aged to come along\, get to know each other\, grab a coffee (on Rabbi McCarroll)\, and look ahead to the very special milestone of Consecration\, which takes place in Grade 1! \nRegister here
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/consecration-coffee-schmooze/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/HBTConsecration.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250504T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250504T140000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250317T142053Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T121713Z
UID:10018567-1746351000-1746367200@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Women of Holy Blossom's 2nd Annual Sisterhood & Study Retreat: Women of Valour
DESCRIPTION:Women of Holy Blossom’s 2nd Annual Sisterhood & Study Retreat: Women of Valour\nSunday\, May 4\, 9:30 am \n  \nThis year’s Women of Holy Blossom sisterhood & study retreat will explore the theme Women of Valour. \nOur primary text\, Eishet Chayil (Proverbs 31)\, has been treasured throughout the millennia for its description of the ideal woman. Some feminists have rejected it. Biblical scholars and poets\, in each generation\, have retranslated and recast it in light of new and emerging identities. \nTogether\, with Rabbi Yael Splansky as our teacher and guide\, we will consider the weight of these verses and how they shape our own understanding of Jewish womanhood. \n  \nRegister here \nToronto location will be emailed following your registration.\nParking is available onsite.\nThe cost of $54 per person\, includes lunch (not eligible for a tax receipt).
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/women-of-holy-blossoms-2nd-annual-sisterhood-study-retreat-women-of-valour/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/WHB_RetreatUpdated.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250505T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250505T193000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250116T182719Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T164626Z
UID:10018552-1746469800-1746473400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Tefillah 101
DESCRIPTION:Tefillah 101: An Introduction to Prayer and Spiritual Practice\nEverything You’ve Wanted to Ask About Jewish Prayer—But Never Did! \nEver wondered why we bow at certain moments? What the Torah service really means? Or how Reform Judaism has shaped prayer? \nIf you’ve had questions about Jewish prayer services but never felt able to ask\, this is your chance! \nJoin us for a six-part\, team-taught course designed especially for those new to the congregation—but open to all. Each Monday evening begins with Mincha/Maariv at 6:00 pm\, followed by a light meal and an hour of engaging accessible learning. Led by our clergy team\, we’ll explore the choreography\, history\, music\, and deeper meaning behind Jewish prayer. No question is off-limits! \nCome with curiosity and leave with confidence in your understanding of prayer and services. \n  \nRegister here \nThese sessions are part of the New Member Welcome Initiative\, which is made possible through the generosity of Marilynne and Joseph Cass. We are very thankful for their support. \n  \nThere will be no class on April 14th due to Pesach \nPart 1: March 17\nThe Music of Prayer – with Cantor David Rosen \nPart 2: March 31\nThe architecture\, choreography\, and ritual dress for prayer – with Rabbi Eliza McCarroll \nPart 3: April 7\nThe Torah Service\, a Re-enactment of Sinai – with Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers. \nPart 6: April 21\nKavanah. Why we pray? – with Rabbi Taylor Baruchel \nPart 4: April 28\nThe Many Theologies found in our Siddur and Finding our Own – with Rabbi Yael Splansky \nPart 5: May 5\nThe History and Anatomy of a Jewish Prayer Service\, including the Innovations of the Reform Judaism – with Rabbi Sam Kaye \n  \nSession fees include a light dairy dinner.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/tefillah-101/2025-05-05/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torah-love.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250506T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250506T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250331T183457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T163100Z
UID:10018609-1746527400-1746532800@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Let’s Connect: Preventing and Managing Loneliness and Depression in Older Adults
DESCRIPTION:The Luke Sklar Mental Health Initiative Presents: \nLet’s Connect: Preventing and Managing Loneliness and Depression in Older Adults\nWith Guest Speakers: \nDr. David Conn\, MB\, FRCPC\, Staff Psychiatrist Baycrest Health Sciences\nFran Kleiner\, MSW RSW\, Senior Social Worker Adult Day Programs at Baycrest  \nThis program is generously co-sponsored by The Luke Sklar Mental Health Initiative\, Dorot (through Carole and Jay Sterling and family)\, and Women of Holy Blossom \nTuesday\, May 6. Our event will begin in the Mishkan and run from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm \nLunch to follow in the Mishkan\, 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm\, (details below) \nDorot games\, 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm\, all registered guests are welcome to join in the Schwartz/Reisman Atrium \nWe are social creatures – it’s our connections to family\, friends and community that help us thrive and survive. However\, as we age\, many of us are alone more often\, which leaves us vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness – as well as related health issues like depression\, cognitive decline\, and more. Blessedly\, there are ways to prevent and/or counteract these outcomes and maintain well-being. \nIn a session that’s equally valuable for older adults and their caregivers\, Dr. Conn will guide us through common psychosocial issues for the elderly: family support\, financial security\, mental and physical health\, mobility issues\, death of a spouse and peers. We’ll learn how to recognize when someone is alone vs. lonely. And how symptoms of depression can be assessed\, addressed and treated. \nFran Kleiner\, social worker for Baycrest Adult Day Programs\, will inform us about various programs and activities at Baycrest that promote enriched living and brain health through socialization with others. \nPlease join us and feel the warmth of community as we learn together\, share together\, and enjoy lunch and table games after the program. \n(Lunch is $15 for Temple members\, $18 for non-members: payment can be made online when you register\, or in cash at the event.) \nFor those who can’t make it in person\, the event will also be livestreamed. The link to the livestream will be provided upon registration. \nWe’ll also record the session and make it available for anyone who’s unable to join us in person\, or virtually\, on the day. \nPlease register here (whether attending in person or online) to join us. \nIf you have a question you’d like addressed by Dr. Conn or Fran Kleiner during the program\, in confidence\, please send it in advance to: theLSMHI@gmail.com \n  \nMore about Dr. Conn: \nDr. David Conn is a Staff Psychiatrist at Baycrest Health Sciences. He is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry\, University of Toronto\, and Co-Chair of the Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health. He is a Past President of the Canadian Academy of Geriatric Psychiatry. His academic interests include nursing home psychiatry\, telepsychiatry\, guideline development and knowledge translation. He’s the author or co-author of more than 100 publications and is the co-editor of three textbooks including “Practical Psychiatry in the Long-Term Care Home: A Handbook for Staff”.  Dr. Conn has been the recipient of several awards in recognition of his professional and academic achievements. \n More about Fran Kleiner: \nFran Kleiner\, MSW RSW\, has been working for the past 40+ years as a senior social worker for the Adult Day Programs at Baycrest\, an academic health sciences centre providing a continuum of care for older adults\, all within one campus. She is an expert in individual and family counseling\, group work with seniors\, and is the team lead on the 10-member interdisciplinary team of the Freeman Family Day Centre. Fran is passionate about client-centred care\, supporting caregivers\, and giving back to the community.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/lets-connect-preventing-and-managing-loneliness-and-depression-in-older-adults/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LSMHI_SocialIsolation2.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250506T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250506T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250116T203204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T155440Z
UID:10018443-1746534600-1746538200@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Dorot Games
DESCRIPTION:Dorot Games\nTuesdays\, 12:30 pm\nSchwartz/Reisman Atrium \nDorot programming is generously sponsored by Carole and Jay Sterling and Family \nWe invite everyone to come to play your favourite games: Chess\, Mahjong\, Canasta\, Rummycube\, Dominos\, Scrabble and social bridge.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/dorot-games/2025-05-06/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/DorotGames_resize.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250507T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250507T190000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250403T174958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T175225Z
UID:10018611-1746637200-1746644400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Mitzvah Bakers!
DESCRIPTION:Mitzvah Bakers!\nWednesday\, May 7\, 5:00 pm \n  \nJoin us for a very special Mitzvah Bakers where we will bake cookies for our Bagel Boxes!\nVolunteer to bake and pack our bagel boxes! Pizza will be served. \nRegister here!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/mitzvah-bakers/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/MitzvahBakers.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250508T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250508T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250313T202117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T193703Z
UID:10018565-1746705600-1746711000@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Israel Dialogues Spring 2025
DESCRIPTION:Israel Dialogues Spring 2025\nMarch 28\, April 2\, April 11\, May 2\, 8\, 22\, 29 12:00 pm (online only) \nwith thanks to our Israel Dialogues Organizing Committee and our expert panellists \n  \nRegister here \n  \nFriday\, March 28\nDr. Shay Menuchin\nLegal Perspectives on Dawning Events in Israel\nOur Member Shay Menuchin was admitted to practice as a lawyer in both New York State and Israel. Holds a PhD in law from the London School of Economics and Political Science. From a legal perspective\, he will discuss the evolving situation with the leadership of the Shin Bet\, the Attorney General\, and the ongoing battle between the courts and the legislature. \nWednesday\, April 2\nRabbi Ammiel Hirsch\nIsrael in Crisis: A Jewish Diaspora Response\nRabbi Ammiel Hirsch of the Steven S. Wise Free Synagogue in New York will join us on WEDNESDAY April 2nd. Rabbi Hirsch is the former Executive Director of ARZA and last year was named one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world by the Jerusalem Post. Rabbi Hirsch is one of the foremost proponents of Jewish peoplehood and Zionism in the Reform Movement. Rabbi Hirsch is joining us for the first time. His presentation is titled “Israel in Crisis: A Jewish Diaspora Response.” \nFriday\, April 11\nProf. Asher Susser\nTrump\, the Arabs and the New Middle Eastern Balance of Power\nDr. Asher Susser will return right before Pesach on April 11th. Dr. Susser is Professor Emeritus of Middle Eastern History at Tel Aviv University (TAU). He was the Director of the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern Studies at TAU for twelve years and taught for over thirty-five years in TAU’s Department of Middle Eastern History.  Dr. Susser’s most recent book is Jordan\, Palestine\, and the Politics of Collective Identity – A History. (Boulder & London:  Lynne Reiner\, 2024) \nFriday\, May 2\nWith Amb. (ret’d) Scott Proudfoot\n The Israeli-Palestinian conflict: a Canadian diplomatic perspective\nDouglas Scott Proudfoot is a retired foreign service officer who served in Nairobi\, Delhi\, Vienna (IAEA)\, London\, Ramallah\, Juba\, Bamako and Montreal (ICAO). From 2016-2019 he was Canadian Representative to the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah and resided in East Jerusalem. During that time\, he travelled frequently to Gaza as well as all parts of the West Bank\, while also representing Canada on the UNRWA Advisory Commission. \nThursday\, May 8\nDr. Michal Hatuel-Radoshitzky\nBeyond the Headlines: Understanding Israel’s Legitimacy Challenges on the Global Stage\nThe anti-Israel grassroots campaign is not a new phenomenon. Since October 7\, 2023\, however\, anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiment appears to have intensified. While multiple polls attest to the latter\, the former phenomenon in which Israel is delegitimized is difficult to quantify and assess. In this session\, we will unpack grassroots efforts to dent Israel’s international positioning since October 7\, along with pro-Israel pushback efforts\, in six key arenas: academic\, culture\, digital\, economy\, legal and sports. The findings presented in this session are based on research conducted by the MIND Israel team\, culminating in February 2025. \nPrior to joining MIND\, Michal held various managerial and research positions in the academic\, philanthropic\, and civil-society sectors\, including at the Azrieli Foundation\, the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS)\, the Institute for Inclusive Security\, and the Geneva Initiative (HL Education for Peace). She is a Founding Member of Forum Dvorah: Women in Foreign Policy and National Security and an adjunct lecturer at Tel Aviv University. Her research focuses on soft challenges for Israel in the international arena\, including legitimacy issues\, relations with the Western world (Europe and the US)\, international organizations and Israel-Diaspora Jewry relations. \nRead: Theorizing state stigmatization: A comparative perspective on South Africa and Israel \nThursday\, May 22\nBen Murane\nCivil Society:  from Progressive to Extremist in Israeli Society\nBen Murane is the Executive Director of the New Israel Fund of Canada and a leading voice of millennial engagement with Israel. For over twelve years\, Ben has led at the intersection of Jewish life\, social justice\, and Israel. He previously worked for NIF’s U.S. branch\, won Jewish innovation awards for his work in environmentalism and campus life\, and founded both online and offline Jewish communities. In 2012\, he received the prestigious Dorot Leadership Fellowship in Israel\, where he studied Zionism and worked at a political think tank. \nThursday\, May 29\nProf. Gabriel Ben-Dor\nIsrael in a New and Uncertain Regional Strategic Environment:  a Conversation\nGabriel Ben-Dor  is Professor of Political Science at the University of Haifa in Israel. He holds a doctorate in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies from Princeton University in the United States. He served as the Rector of the University\, and also held the posts of Chairman of the Department of Political Science\, Director of the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies\, and Dean of Research. Previously he held the elected position of President of the Israel Political Science Association. Until recently he directed the graduate study program at the National Defense College\, the highest course of the studies in the Israeli Defense Forces. He was also the founder and director of the National Security Studies Center at the University of Haifa. He has recently completed a six-year term as a member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Middle East Studies. For over twenty years Ben-Dor lectured at the Royal College of Defense Studies in London\, England\, one of the leading institutions for national security affairs in the world. \n 
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/israel-dialogues-spring-2025/2025-05-08/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IsraelDialogues_MC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250508T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250508T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250311T201027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T193434Z
UID:10018551-1746730800-1746738000@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:YAD: Next Gen: Trivia Night @ The Guild House
DESCRIPTION:YAD: Next Gen: Trivia Night @ The Guild House\nThursday\, May 8\, 7:00 pm\,  The Guild House (579 St Clair Ave W) \n  \nThink you know your Jewish history? Your pop culture? Your random\, totally useless (but impressive) facts? Time to put that knowledge to the test at YAD: Next Gen Trivia Night! \nBrains\, brews\, and banter—what more do you need? Pre-arrange a team with your crew\, or just show up\, and we’ll match you up with fellow brainiacs. \n  \nRegister here! \nRSVP now—because knowing things is fun\, but knowing people who know things is even better!\nOpen for all Jewish young professionals in their 20s & 30s (and those who love us!) \nYAD: Next Gen at Holy Blossom is generously sponsored in part by David & Cheryl Blinick
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/yad-next-gen-trivia-night-the-guild-house/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/TriviaNight.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250509T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250509T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250214T173817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T145644Z
UID:10018516-1746784800-1746792000@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock
DESCRIPTION:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock\n3 times available: 10:00 am\, 11:00 am\, and 12:00 pm\n9 Weeks: March 21\, 28 April 4\, 25 May 2\, 9\, 23\, 30\, and June 6 \n0 – 5 years of age \n  \nRegister here! \n  \nJoin us on Friday mornings for Shabbat music\, stories\, and more. Dr. Marky (MD\, MEd) is an award-winning entertainer and respected educator with over 20 years of experience running Shabbat programs that inspire and help stimulate your child’s motor and language development. Welcome\, Shabbat with a smile and song in your heart!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/little-blossoms-with-marky-weinstock-2/2025-05-09/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LittleBlossoms2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250512T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250512T213000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250310T183228Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250404T141416Z
UID:10018542-1747078200-1747085400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Without Precedent: Wisdom for Our Times
DESCRIPTION:Without Precedent: Wisdom for Our Times\nPresented by: Women’s Advocacy Group of Women of Holy Blossom\, in partnership with the Canadian Jewish Women’s Collective \nMonday\, May 12\, 7:30 pm \n  \nA vital conversation with The Honourable Rosalie Abella\, retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada and Rabbi Yael Splansky\, Senior Rabbi Holy Blossom Temple.\nLight dessert reception to follow. \nJoin us for an inspiring evening where we will draw wisdom and motivation from Justice Abella and Rabbi Splansky\, two extraordinarily accomplished Canadian Jewish women leaders. This important conversation will address the challenges of our times\, with a focus on the Canadian legal and social context – including women’s rights\, gender-based violence\, antisemitism\, and the power of women to make a difference. \nJustice Rosalie Abella is renowned for her trailblazing role in the Canadian legal system. She was the first Jewish woman and the first refugee to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada\, beginning in 2004\, where she presided until her retirement in June 2021. In her four-plus decades on the bench\, Justice Abella was a passionate and fearless jurist. Her understanding of equality and discrimination informed the meaning of substantive equality rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms\, which in turn has responded to the needs of women and those from marginalized communities. We highly recommend watching the film Without Precedent: The Supreme Life of Rosalie Abella | Films | CBC Gem\, which chronicles her life\, shining a light on what motivated her and the impact of her work on Canadians. \nRabbi Yael Splansky is the first woman rabbi to be appointed to the role of Senior Rabbi in a leading Canadian synagogue and a fourth-generation Reform Jewish Rabbi. She was recently recognized by the Canadian Parliament with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Award for her commitment to refugee relief\, support and advocacy for the unhoused and building bridges among faith communities. To learn more\, please click here. \n  \nRegister NOW \nCost – $18.00 per person\nIn-person event\nAvailable online; registration also required \n 
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/without-precedent-wisdom-for-our-times/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/RAbella.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250513T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250513T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250116T203204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T155440Z
UID:10018444-1747139400-1747143000@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Dorot Games
DESCRIPTION:Dorot Games\nTuesdays\, 12:30 pm\nSchwartz/Reisman Atrium \nDorot programming is generously sponsored by Carole and Jay Sterling and Family \nWe invite everyone to come to play your favourite games: Chess\, Mahjong\, Canasta\, Rummycube\, Dominos\, Scrabble and social bridge.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/dorot-games/2025-05-13/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/DorotGames_resize.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250514T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250514T210000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250317T194616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T185904Z
UID:10018569-1747249200-1747256400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:The Interfaith Bridge: A Night to Remember
DESCRIPTION:The Interfaith Bridge: A Night to Remember\nA Powerful Night of Inspiration and Allyship to Combat Antisemitism in Our Community. \nWednesday\, May 14\, 7:00 pm\, St. Paul’s Bloor Street (227 Bloor Street East) \n  \nJoin us at St. Paul’s Bloor Street for a night of unity and understanding. This event aims to bring together people from different faith backgrounds to celebrate our similarities and embrace our differences. Come and be a part of this special evening where we build bridges of love and respect. \nLet’s come together to learn\, share\, and grow in harmony. \nRegistration and names are required for all attendees and please bring ID matching names on the tickets for check-in. \nLearn more & register here \n  \nFeaturing distinguished speakers: \nBishop Jenny Andison\, St Paul’s Bloor Street & St. George’s Grange Park\nRabbi Yael Splansky\, Holy Blossom Temple\nRev. Dr. Jayson Byassee\, Timothy Eaton Memorial Church\nNate Leipciger\, Holocaust Survivor\nEmily Bonnell\, Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center\nZach Sadowski\, Friends of Simon Wiesenthat Center \n  \n 
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/the-interfaith-bridge-a-night-to-remember/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/InterfaithBridge.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250515T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250515T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250416T174439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T181139Z
UID:10018620-1747305000-1747310400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Contemporary Jewish Fiction Spring Class
DESCRIPTION:Contemporary Jewish Fiction Spring Class\nThursday\, May 15 & 22\, 10:30 am (hybrid) \n  \nWith Cynthia Good \nWe look forward to in-person (and online) learning and the opportunity for in-depth study and our usual lively discussion around The Safekeep\, a fascinating\, provocative book. This is the first novel written by Yael van der Wouden\, an Israeli-born Jewish Dutch writer\, only 37 years old\, widely praised and shortlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize. \n  \nRegister here \n  \nLiving alone in Holland in 1961 in her late mother’s country home\, Isabel knows her life is as it should be—led by routine and discipline. But all is upended when her brother Louis brings his graceless new girlfriend Eva\, leaving her at Isabel’s doorstep as a guest\, to stay for the season. Eva is Isabel’s antithesis: she sleeps late\, walks loudly through the house\, and touches things she shouldn’t. In response\, Isabel develops a fury-fueled obsession\, and when things start disappearing around the house—a spoon\, a knife\, a bowl—Isabel’s suspicions begin to spiral. \nThis is a book of surprises\, and just a warning – or an incentive – it gets pretty steamy with a section of unexpected explicit sex. As soon as I read this intriguing novel\, I thought I wanted to study it more closely\, and I look forward to doing so with you and hearing your reactions. All are welcome! \nMysterious\, sophisticated\, sensual\, and infused with intrigue\, atmosphere\, and sex\, The Safekeep is “a brave and thrilling debut about facing up to the truth of history\, and to one’s own desires” (The Guardian) \nWINNER OF THE NATIONAL JEWISH BOOK AWARD FOR DEBUT FICTION A Best Book of 2024: The New York Times\, The Washington Post\, Los Angeles Times\, Time\, The Economist\, The Globe and Mail (Toronto)\, Kirkus Reviews\, The Independent\, BookPage\, The Sunday Times (London)
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/contemporary-jewish-fiction-spring-class/2025-05-15/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ContemporaryFiction_Spring2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250515T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250515T203000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250414T154351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T130659Z
UID:10018616-1747333800-1747341000@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:HaTzipporim (Empty Nesters) Presents: Cooking with the Cantor
DESCRIPTION:HaTzipporim (Empty Nesters) Presents: Cooking with the Cantor\nThursday\, May 15\, 6:30 pm \n  \nIn the lead-up to Shavuot\, our HaTzipporim (Empty Nesters) group will join together to cook up a delicious dairy treat with Cantor David Rosen. \nDid you know Cantor Rosen is a renowned foodie!?\nWe’ll meet at the private home of Sharon Neiss Arbess and Gordon Arbess\, and we appreciate their gracious hospitality. The address will be provided upon registration. \nThis event is limited to the first 12 signups\, due to space capacity.\nPlease also note that this event is $10/member\, or $15/non-member\, to help with ingredients. \nSIGN UP HERE!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/hatzipporim-empty-nesters-presents-cooking-with-the-cantor/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CantorCooking.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250516T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250516T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250214T173817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T145644Z
UID:10018517-1747389600-1747396800@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock
DESCRIPTION:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock\n3 times available: 10:00 am\, 11:00 am\, and 12:00 pm\n9 Weeks: March 21\, 28 April 4\, 25 May 2\, 9\, 23\, 30\, and June 6 \n0 – 5 years of age \n  \nRegister here! \n  \nJoin us on Friday mornings for Shabbat music\, stories\, and more. Dr. Marky (MD\, MEd) is an award-winning entertainer and respected educator with over 20 years of experience running Shabbat programs that inspire and help stimulate your child’s motor and language development. Welcome\, Shabbat with a smile and song in your heart!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/little-blossoms-with-marky-weinstock-2/2025-05-16/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/LittleBlossoms2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250519T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250519T200000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250506T153427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T182149Z
UID:10018629-1747674000-1747684800@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Paintball with HABSTY!
DESCRIPTION:Paintball with HABSTY!\nMonday\, May 19\, 5:00 pm \n  \nHABSTY end of year field trip! Join us at Sgt Splatters paintball on Victoria Day.\nThe start time is 5 pm\, with pizza and dinner included. Grades 8-12. \n  \nRegister here for $40 \nNon-members welcome.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/paintball-with-habsty/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sgt-splatter.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T110000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250115T194058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T182329Z
UID:10018298-1747737000-1747738800@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Film Talks: What I’m watching and why….
DESCRIPTION:Film Talks: What I’m watching and why….\nMonthly\, Tuesdays\, 10:30 am via Zoom \nWe’re living in a Golden Age of television\, film\, and webisodes on the internet\, and film professor Gillian Helfield is our intrepid guide through all of it – some speculative\, some realistic and some purely escapist! Join her for a 20-minute check-in to discover what she’s watching now and why. At the end\, there’s time for you to add your viewing suggestions. \n  \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/940094258?pwd=ZlRzSkdMRTRUSzI5U005b3MxM2FGdz09 \nMeeting ID: 940 094 258\nPasscode: 125479 \nFind your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdxyogfee9
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/film-talks-what-im-watching-and-why/2025-05-20/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/FIlmTalk2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T123000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250414T145528Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T141015Z
UID:10018613-1747738800-1747744200@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:"Words of Witness\, The Fiction of Élie Wiesel" with author Leonard Rosemarin
DESCRIPTION:Dorot Presents: \nWords of Witness\, The Fiction of Élie Wiesel\nwith author Léonard Rosemarin \nTuesday\, May 20\, 11:00 am \n  \nDorot is invited to join author and academic Léonard Rosemarin as he presents his book\, Words of Witness: The Fiction of Élie Wiesel. In the book\, Rosemarin emphasizes that in his novels\, far more than in his essays\, the great Nobel Prize winner celebrates the triumph of the human spirit over the forces of degradation and death. \nThis event is $15/members and $18/non-members\nCopies of the book will be available for sale/signing at the discounted rate of $25 (normally $35) \nA delicious lunch will be catered by our Holy Grounds Cafe\nAll are welcome to Games in the Schwartz/Reisman Atrium following the program \nREGISTER HERE \nThe Dorot program is generously sponsored by Carole and Jay Sterling and Family \n  \nABOUT THE BOOK:\nThrough his novels\, Rosemarin traces Wiesel’s spiritual trajectory as he moves from utter agony and despair when\, as an adolescent\, he was liberated by the American army from one of the most infamous of the Nazi death camps\, Buchenwald\, to an unconditional embrace of life despite its multiple flaws\, fragility and potential for tragedy. In so doing\, he created a huge resonating chamber\, in which many of the anguishing moral\, spiritual\, religious and social dilemmas of the 20th and 21st centuries receive a magnificent orchestration through his mastery of storytelling. What makes this book unique is that it is the only one to encompass all of Élie Wiesel’s novels from Dawn (1960) to Hostage (2010) written a half-century later. \nABOUT THE AUTHOR:\nDr. Léonard Rosmarin is Professor Emeritus and former Chair of the Department of Modern Languages at Brock University. He received his B.A. (Honours French) as well as his M.A. from McGill University\, a Licence ès Lettres from the Université d’Aix-Marseille\, and his Ph.D. from Yale University. He taught for several years at Yale University\, then Wesleyan University before returning to Canada where he was at Brock University for the remaining 33 years of his career. He has also been Visiting Professor at the School for Doctoral Studies during a ten-year period (1992-2002) at the Université de Perpignan where he also directed Brock’s Third Year Study Program in France. He is the author of 17 books including critical studies of French and Franco-Jewish authors\, translations and even a novel based on his larger-than-life Jewish family in Montréal. He was invited to contribute ten articles to the huge Histoire juive de la France published by the illustrious publishing house\, Albin-Michel in Paris in 2023. He is the only Canadian scholar to have been asked to participate in this important project. He has been twice decorated by the Republic of France for his outstanding contribution to French literature. He firmly believes that working at the advanced age of 86 prevents old age from doing too much damage.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/words-of-witness-the-fiction-of-elie-wiesel-with-author-leonard-rosemarin/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DOROT_Rosmarin2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250116T203204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T155440Z
UID:10018445-1747744200-1747747800@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Dorot Games
DESCRIPTION:Dorot Games\nTuesdays\, 12:30 pm\nSchwartz/Reisman Atrium \nDorot programming is generously sponsored by Carole and Jay Sterling and Family \nWe invite everyone to come to play your favourite games: Chess\, Mahjong\, Canasta\, Rummycube\, Dominos\, Scrabble and social bridge.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/dorot-games/2025-05-20/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/DorotGames_resize.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250520T220000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250319T150258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T140443Z
UID:10018570-1747771200-1747778400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Israel on the World Stage: A Conversation with Tal Becker
DESCRIPTION:The Shalom Hartman Institute presents \nIsrael on the World Stage: A Conversation with Tal Becker\nTuesday\, May 20\, 8:00 pm \n  \nEvents in the Middle East are unfolding at a stunning pace\, with intense uncertainty around the future of Gaza\, the Netanyahu government\, and the prospect of normalization with Saudi Arabia. \nJoin Tal Becker as he explores the whirlwind of emerging threats and opportunities for Israel and the Jewish people and offers us a lens to understand the path forward in conversation with Rabbi Yael Splansky. \n  \nRegister here
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/israel-on-the-world-stage-a-conversation-with-tal-becker/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/7QI9yUeX.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250522T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250522T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250416T174439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T181139Z
UID:10018621-1747909800-1747915200@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Contemporary Jewish Fiction Spring Class
DESCRIPTION:Contemporary Jewish Fiction Spring Class\nThursday\, May 15 & 22\, 10:30 am (hybrid) \n  \nWith Cynthia Good \nWe look forward to in-person (and online) learning and the opportunity for in-depth study and our usual lively discussion around The Safekeep\, a fascinating\, provocative book. This is the first novel written by Yael van der Wouden\, an Israeli-born Jewish Dutch writer\, only 37 years old\, widely praised and shortlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize. \n  \nRegister here \n  \nLiving alone in Holland in 1961 in her late mother’s country home\, Isabel knows her life is as it should be—led by routine and discipline. But all is upended when her brother Louis brings his graceless new girlfriend Eva\, leaving her at Isabel’s doorstep as a guest\, to stay for the season. Eva is Isabel’s antithesis: she sleeps late\, walks loudly through the house\, and touches things she shouldn’t. In response\, Isabel develops a fury-fueled obsession\, and when things start disappearing around the house—a spoon\, a knife\, a bowl—Isabel’s suspicions begin to spiral. \nThis is a book of surprises\, and just a warning – or an incentive – it gets pretty steamy with a section of unexpected explicit sex. As soon as I read this intriguing novel\, I thought I wanted to study it more closely\, and I look forward to doing so with you and hearing your reactions. All are welcome! \nMysterious\, sophisticated\, sensual\, and infused with intrigue\, atmosphere\, and sex\, The Safekeep is “a brave and thrilling debut about facing up to the truth of history\, and to one’s own desires” (The Guardian) \nWINNER OF THE NATIONAL JEWISH BOOK AWARD FOR DEBUT FICTION A Best Book of 2024: The New York Times\, The Washington Post\, Los Angeles Times\, Time\, The Economist\, The Globe and Mail (Toronto)\, Kirkus Reviews\, The Independent\, BookPage\, The Sunday Times (London)
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/contemporary-jewish-fiction-spring-class/2025-05-22/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ContemporaryFiction_Spring2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250522T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250522T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250313T202117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T193703Z
UID:10018584-1747915200-1747920600@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Israel Dialogues Spring 2025
DESCRIPTION:Israel Dialogues Spring 2025\nMarch 28\, April 2\, April 11\, May 2\, 8\, 22\, 29 12:00 pm (online only) \nwith thanks to our Israel Dialogues Organizing Committee and our expert panellists \n  \nRegister here \n  \nFriday\, March 28\nDr. Shay Menuchin\nLegal Perspectives on Dawning Events in Israel\nOur Member Shay Menuchin was admitted to practice as a lawyer in both New York State and Israel. Holds a PhD in law from the London School of Economics and Political Science. From a legal perspective\, he will discuss the evolving situation with the leadership of the Shin Bet\, the Attorney General\, and the ongoing battle between the courts and the legislature. \nWednesday\, April 2\nRabbi Ammiel Hirsch\nIsrael in Crisis: A Jewish Diaspora Response\nRabbi Ammiel Hirsch of the Steven S. Wise Free Synagogue in New York will join us on WEDNESDAY April 2nd. Rabbi Hirsch is the former Executive Director of ARZA and last year was named one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world by the Jerusalem Post. Rabbi Hirsch is one of the foremost proponents of Jewish peoplehood and Zionism in the Reform Movement. Rabbi Hirsch is joining us for the first time. His presentation is titled “Israel in Crisis: A Jewish Diaspora Response.” \nFriday\, April 11\nProf. Asher Susser\nTrump\, the Arabs and the New Middle Eastern Balance of Power\nDr. Asher Susser will return right before Pesach on April 11th. Dr. Susser is Professor Emeritus of Middle Eastern History at Tel Aviv University (TAU). He was the Director of the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern Studies at TAU for twelve years and taught for over thirty-five years in TAU’s Department of Middle Eastern History.  Dr. Susser’s most recent book is Jordan\, Palestine\, and the Politics of Collective Identity – A History. (Boulder & London:  Lynne Reiner\, 2024) \nFriday\, May 2\nWith Amb. (ret’d) Scott Proudfoot\n The Israeli-Palestinian conflict: a Canadian diplomatic perspective\nDouglas Scott Proudfoot is a retired foreign service officer who served in Nairobi\, Delhi\, Vienna (IAEA)\, London\, Ramallah\, Juba\, Bamako and Montreal (ICAO). From 2016-2019 he was Canadian Representative to the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah and resided in East Jerusalem. During that time\, he travelled frequently to Gaza as well as all parts of the West Bank\, while also representing Canada on the UNRWA Advisory Commission. \nThursday\, May 8\nDr. Michal Hatuel-Radoshitzky\nBeyond the Headlines: Understanding Israel’s Legitimacy Challenges on the Global Stage\nThe anti-Israel grassroots campaign is not a new phenomenon. Since October 7\, 2023\, however\, anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiment appears to have intensified. While multiple polls attest to the latter\, the former phenomenon in which Israel is delegitimized is difficult to quantify and assess. In this session\, we will unpack grassroots efforts to dent Israel’s international positioning since October 7\, along with pro-Israel pushback efforts\, in six key arenas: academic\, culture\, digital\, economy\, legal and sports. The findings presented in this session are based on research conducted by the MIND Israel team\, culminating in February 2025. \nPrior to joining MIND\, Michal held various managerial and research positions in the academic\, philanthropic\, and civil-society sectors\, including at the Azrieli Foundation\, the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS)\, the Institute for Inclusive Security\, and the Geneva Initiative (HL Education for Peace). She is a Founding Member of Forum Dvorah: Women in Foreign Policy and National Security and an adjunct lecturer at Tel Aviv University. Her research focuses on soft challenges for Israel in the international arena\, including legitimacy issues\, relations with the Western world (Europe and the US)\, international organizations and Israel-Diaspora Jewry relations. \nRead: Theorizing state stigmatization: A comparative perspective on South Africa and Israel \nThursday\, May 22\nBen Murane\nCivil Society:  from Progressive to Extremist in Israeli Society\nBen Murane is the Executive Director of the New Israel Fund of Canada and a leading voice of millennial engagement with Israel. For over twelve years\, Ben has led at the intersection of Jewish life\, social justice\, and Israel. He previously worked for NIF’s U.S. branch\, won Jewish innovation awards for his work in environmentalism and campus life\, and founded both online and offline Jewish communities. In 2012\, he received the prestigious Dorot Leadership Fellowship in Israel\, where he studied Zionism and worked at a political think tank. \nThursday\, May 29\nProf. Gabriel Ben-Dor\nIsrael in a New and Uncertain Regional Strategic Environment:  a Conversation\nGabriel Ben-Dor  is Professor of Political Science at the University of Haifa in Israel. He holds a doctorate in Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies from Princeton University in the United States. He served as the Rector of the University\, and also held the posts of Chairman of the Department of Political Science\, Director of the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies\, and Dean of Research. Previously he held the elected position of President of the Israel Political Science Association. Until recently he directed the graduate study program at the National Defense College\, the highest course of the studies in the Israeli Defense Forces. He was also the founder and director of the National Security Studies Center at the University of Haifa. He has recently completed a six-year term as a member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Middle East Studies. For over twenty years Ben-Dor lectured at the Royal College of Defense Studies in London\, England\, one of the leading institutions for national security affairs in the world. \n 
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/israel-dialogues-spring-2025/2025-05-22/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IsraelDialogues_MC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250523T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250523T120000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250214T173817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T145644Z
UID:10018518-1747994400-1748001600@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock
DESCRIPTION:Little Blossoms with Marky Weinstock\n3 times available: 10:00 am\, 11:00 am\, and 12:00 pm\n9 Weeks: March 21\, 28 April 4\, 25 May 2\, 9\, 23\, 30\, and June 6 \n0 – 5 years of age \n  \nRegister here! \n  \nJoin us on Friday mornings for Shabbat music\, stories\, and more. Dr. Marky (MD\, MEd) is an award-winning entertainer and respected educator with over 20 years of experience running Shabbat programs that inspire and help stimulate your child’s motor and language development. Welcome\, Shabbat with a smile and song in your heart!
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/little-blossoms-with-marky-weinstock-2/2025-05-23/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250523T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250523T180000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250506T154357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T171153Z
UID:10018630-1748019600-1748023200@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Annual Campaign 2025 Wine and Cheese Launch
DESCRIPTION:Annual Campaign 2025 Wine and Cheese Launch\nFriday\, May 23\, 5:00 pm \n  \nCelebrate the launch of the 2025 Annual Campaign with an evening that brings together good company\, fine wine\, and a shared commitment to the community. \nPlease join your fellow congregants for a special pre-Kabbalat Shabbat reception in the Schwartz/Reisman Atrium and say l’chaim to our community’s incredible spirit of giving. This evening also offers a chance to learn how your contribution to the Annual Campaign will make a difference in the coming year. Whether you’re a longtime donor or just starting your giving journey\, this event is your invitation to raise a glass\, build momentum\, and help shape the future of our Temple. Join us for Kabbalat Shabbat Services following the Annual Campaign Launch at 6:00 pm! \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlease let us know how many people from your household\, including yourself\, are attending to assist with planning. Thank you! \nPlease select…12345678910
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/annual-campaign-2025-wine-and-cheese-launch/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/winecheese.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250524T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250524T133000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250522T144344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250523T150545Z
UID:10018640-1748089800-1748093400@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:Shabbat Table Talk with Ofer Muscovitch
DESCRIPTION:Shabbat Table Talk with Ofer Muscovitch\nCo-Founder of ESEK Israel\nSaturday\, May 24\, 12:30 pm \n  \nPlease join us following our 10:30 am Shabbat Morning service for an informal chat over kiddush lunch with Ofek Muscovitch\, co-founder of Esek Israel. \n  \nABOUT OFEK MUSCOVICH:\nOfek Moscovich is an Israeli social entrepreneur with a background in leadership\, the arts\, and public service. He served as a commander in the IDF’s sniper unit and later worked as a Jewish Agency Shaliach in the U.S.\, helping to build connections between Israeli and Jewish communities abroad. Ofek is a co-founder of ESEK\, a platform created to support Israeli small businesses affected by war. Over the years\, he has been involved in a range of community projects through youth movements\, Jewish organizations\, and cultural initiatives. He cares deeply about storytelling\, local impact\, and finding practical ways to support others. \nABOUT ESEK:\nFounded in 2024\, ESEK is more than just an e-commerce platform—it’s a movement. Our mission is to bring the world closer to Israel through its products and the remarkable stories of the creators behind them. Every item you purchase from ESEK carries with it Israel’s entrepreneurial spirit\, its creativity\, and its diversity. \nFor more information\, you can visit: https://esek.biz/ \n 
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/shabbat-table-talk-with-ofer-muscovitch/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://holyblossom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ESEK_HBT.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250525T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250525T140000
DTSTAMP:20260412T070546
CREATED:20250509T172131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250523T214211Z
UID:10018632-1748163600-1748181600@holyblossom.org
SUMMARY:UJA Walk With Israel 2025
DESCRIPTION:UJA Walk With Israel 2025\nSunday\, May 25\, 2025 \n  \nJoin thousands of Jews and allies as we stand shoulder to shoulder to send a powerful message: our connection to Israel is UNWAVERING. \nLearn more & walk with us! \nIf you want to participate in this annual tradition\, friends and members of Holy Blossom Temple will join ARZA Canada at Wilson\, just West of Avenue\, at Temple Sinai at 8:30 am to begin the walk.
URL:https://holyblossom.org/event/uja-walk-with-israel-2025/
CATEGORIES:HBT Programs & Events
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