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ALBERTA
NEWS
Publication Mail Agreement Number: 40050628
Volume 31, No. 8 Edmonton Edition September 8, 2020
Cover art: On the run by © Tim Mohan. For information visit artofmohan.com
Page 2 Alberta Jewish News September, 2020
JNF Gala in Edmonton
raises the bar
By Deborah Shatz Jared Paull, president of
Reel Mensch Productions
emceed and produced the
The 2020 Edmonton JNF Negev Gala was a thoroughly
event. Attendees were treated
entertaining virtual event that paid tribute to two
to an engaging, creative short
exceptional honourees - Odette and Jacob Masliyah.
film that moved seamlessly
On August 27, attendees tuned in to watch the from lighthearted comedy to
inspirational story of the Masliyahs who separately heartfelt testimonials and
migrated from Baghdad to Edmonton, met, married and from an engaging history
built a life and family together. Over four decades, they lesson, to an affirmation of
committed themselves to family, community, education and communal Jewish values.
heritage, and they were instrumental in building a strong Yasher Koach to the
and vibrant Jewish community in Edmonton. Masliyahs, Event Chairs Sue
As the attendees got comfortable in their own homes, the and Alvin Winestock, JNF Negev Gala honourees Odette and Jacob Masliyah are presented with the
event started at the Fantasyland Hotel where Elaine and Edmonton Director Jay JNF certificate of honour from event co-chairs Sue and Alivin Winestock
Ram Romanovsky were all dressed up and waiting for the Cairns, Reel Mensch Studios during a virtual Negev Gala event.
rest of the guests to arrive. They started at 7 pm to bicker and many others for their
on air: “Where is everyone? We didn’t get the email that creative innovation! The bar House of Excellence in Sderot Israel is the beneficiary of
the event was not in person. I’m hungry – is there no for virtual galas has now been raised very high. the Edmonton Negev Gala and it will provide educational
meal?” It was light-hearted banter and a very clever way to Educational components of the event included a opportunities for students living in the area.
start the evening which had switched to an online format fascinating presentation from Sephardi Voices David Highlights of the ‘gala film’ included two segments of
when the Covid-19 pandemic prevented large indoor Langer and Dr. Henry Green, as well as an informative ‘Honourees in Cars Drinking Coffee’ clearly an homage to
gatherings in March 2020. video about JNF Canada. The Beit KKL JNF Canada
Continued on page 9
Let’s make 5781 a better year
By Rabbi Steven Schwarzman to be with our loved ones on happy and sad occasions. We occur, and they occurred even in our ancient past. And the
were unable to shake hands, let alone hug. Seniors and Talmud is here to remind us that good years will return.
young singles were alone, and families with children were We will get through this, both here in Edmonton and
In the midst of the
forced to adjust to suddenly being with each other all the around the world. It seems likely that, sometime in 5781,
pandemic, it's not hard to
time. one or several vaccines will be ready. And we will emerge
write off 5780 as an
Near the end of the Talmud's tractate Megillah, Reish from the pandemic, not without real scars, but also
exceptionally bad year. Never
Lakish says that the curses (and the blessings) in perhaps with a renewed understanding of what's truly
mind what we were all able to
Leviticus are read so that an aliyah neither begins nor important in our lives.
accomplish during the year
(including on Zoom), never ends with a curse. We add a verse at the beginning and at And this is what Rosh Hashanah is all about. This year,
mind the good things that we the end to avoid this. With regard to the similar reading in we may be able to go deeper in examining what we do out
did, never mind the sins that Deuteronomy, which is less harsh, it's not necessary to add of habit that doesn't add to our lives. We may see more
we were able to avoid verses. Okay, fair enough. But Rabbi Shimon ben Elazar clearly what we need to do differently now that we have
(especially the habitual ones). goes on to say that Ezra the Scribe arranged the Torah been through such a difficult time. We may find it a little
For too many families around reading schedule to make sure that the curses in easier to give up our grudges and reconcile with friends
the globe, including mine, Deuteronomy are read before Rosh Hashanah, so that, as and family members. The pandemic is a curse, not a
Rabbi Steven loved ones were taken by the either Abaye or Reish Lakish explain in different oral blessing. But we can derive blessings from what we have
Schwarzman virus. Economic disruption traditions, the old year and its curses would be over before learned and make 5781 a better year.
was everywhere. And perhaps worst of all, we were unable the new year begins. More than ever, may we all be inscribed in the Book of
As difficult a year as this Life, so that we can make this year one of blessings.
has been, we can take
comfort in knowing that it Rabbi Steven Schwarzman is the spiritual leader of the
is not unique. Bad years Beth Shalom Synagogue in Edmonton.
Beth Shalom Synagogue
Edmonton's friendly, egalitarian, Conservative shul
wishes the whole House of Israel
SHANAH
TOVAH!
10471 178 St NW #104, See us at edmontonbethshalom.org
EDMONTON AB T5S 1R5 Visit us on Jasper @ 120 Street • Call us at 780-488-6333
kElly.MccAulEy@pARl.gc.cA • 780-392-2515
kEllyMccAulEy.cA Write us at info@edmontonbethshalom.org
September, 2020 Alberta Jewish News Page 3
B"H
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HAppening nOw! Reserve so we can space people accordingly.
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Reclaiming Jewish Identity
Page 4 Alberta Jewish News September, 2020
Come celebrate
Rosh Hashanah
with thousands of
friends virtually!
By Susan Schiffman
This year, Edmonton UJA kicks off the Campaign and
the New Year with a star-studded, authentically Canadian SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13 5:30 PM MDT • REGISTER AT JEWISHEDMONTON.ORG
virtual holiday party on September 13th. Like so many
things this year, the UJA Kickoff has been re-imagined for the elderly, and the isolated. And in spite of the crisis, all for the New Year. We will also
the new pandemic normal. No concert at The Citadel. of our communities found innovative ways to entertain and have New Year’s greetings from our Campaign Chair
No Hors d'oeuvres. No schmoozing with friends over a engage people through an array of outdoor performances Howie Sniderman, our CEO Debby Shoctor and cameo
glass of wine before the show. So, what will we do instead? and virtual events that will make you laugh, cry and be appearances from Matt and Tami Cairns and family,
We put our heads together with creative minds from proud to support Federation. The show is a splendid and organizations such as Jewish Family Services and the
throughout Canada’s Federation network and came up chronicle of Jewish Canada’s resilience and spirit. Aviv Dancers.
with a virtual happening worthy of our great Canadian Moving on from the tough year behind us, the show As for Canadian Jewish celebrities, jazz virtuoso Sophie
Jewish Community. A joint project of the Jewish turns to the year ahead, telling a Canadian Rosh Milman will sing a few spell-binding numbers and
Federations of Canada, produced by award-winning former Hashanah story through the eyes of many characters, The Maccabeats will delight us with their own very special
CTV News reporter Naomi Parness in collaboration with ranging through children from Edmonton, (including Nava brand of Jewish Acapella. There will be other surprise
Shoy Pictures, this Canada-wide virtual show will feature and Lexi Shafir and Jeremy Toubiana) Winnipeg and performances as well as shout outs from Dr. Ruth,
dozens of community members and celebs from coast to Hamilton to big stars from Montreal, Toronto and beyond. Henry Winkler, Natan Sharansky, and many more. And, it
coast. It will be both a look back on our Jewish Canada’s Just for Laughs Founder and notorious mischief-maker, would not be Rosh Hashanah without the Shofar, so get
resiliency through months of crisis, and a forward-looking, Andy Nulman, will host the show, guaranteeing fun for all. ready to hear some of the best Tekiahs, Sevarims, and
upbeat celebration of the New Year to come. Adorable kids will talk about what they hope Teruahs from around Canada. Keep an eye out for the guy
The show will start with a description of the Canadian for in the New Year – you will see some familiar in the hat, he is our own Seth Glick.
Jewish community’s extraordinary response to the little faces from Edmonton as well as old friends And it is all free and happening in your living room on
COVID-19 emergency. Through a great selection of photos and relatives from across Canada. Meanwhile, Bub-bies September 13th at 5:30 PM. No parking ap needed!
and videos contributed by the 11 Federation communities, from around the nation will share Rosh Hashanah recipes. Just pull up a chair and enjoy the show. You need to
a story of generosity, strength and hope will be told. Don’t miss Edmon-ton’s own Paula Weil, who will finally register to get the link, so go to the Federation website
Across the nation, donors contributed generously to reveal the secrets of her Apple Challah. Holocaust Jewishedmonton.org to do so. If you miss the fun on
Federation emergency campaigns and volunteers looked survivors from throughout the country will bring us wise September 13th check the Federation website, beginning
beyond their personal safety to deliver Passover Meals, words about enduring hardship and celebrating life. Anna September 14th, for a link to the recording. Shanah Tovah
groceries, protective gear, and basic necessities to the sick, Linetsky, from Edmonton, will give some uplifting advice and Have a Blast!
High Holidays 2020: What will With the global death toll from COVID-19 rising exponentially, as tracked by the Johns
Hopkins University of Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center, the only thing certain
about this virus is its unpredictability. Canadian actor, Nick Cordero, being only 41,
Jewish Seniors be doing? succumb to the disease while American Gerry Schappals survived not only COVID-19, but
also breast and colon cancer and the 1918 Spanish Influenza.
By Irena Karshenbaum In Alberta, we have been relatively lucky having a fairly low cases-to-mortality rate of
1.78%. However, in watching the daily case numbers, most who have succumbed to the
virus have been seniors. The demographic has also been affected by the virus in countless
other ways.
Jann Beeston, Executive Director of Jewish Family Service Edmonton, reports that her
agency is seeing, “Increased isolation, stress and anxiety, and also increased food
insecurity, and this definitely applies to seniors.” Beeston continues explaining that JFSE
Continued on page 17
NATIONAL COUNCIL
OF JEWISH WOMEN OF CANADA Wishing the Jewish Community a New Year
PRESENTS A CANADA WIDE WEBINAR SERIES
filled with good health and happiness, from
Women and Justice
A Thought Provoking and Action Focused Approach
to Issues that Impact Women Today
Sarah Hamilton
Webinars will start 6pm
Councillor, Ward 5
sarah.hamilton@edmonton.ca
780-496-8120
@sjlhamilton
September, 2020 Alberta Jewish News Page 5
Community and advocacy during uncertainty
By Judy Zelikovitz ensuring that the changing needs of our most vulnerable finding creative ways to give back and offering support to
were met. CIJA advocated for the inclusion of not-for- those experiencing hardship. Instead of planning large
profits in government support programs, such as the events or travel, we can plan to lean on our community
Rosh Hashanah is a time of
Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, and helped ensure that when in need and support it every way we can. We can
new beginnings, a time to
Jewish schools were eligible. Volunteers mobilized by the plan to check in on those who are vulnerable, to be more
reflect on a year gone by
thousands, responding to calls for assistance, helping the understanding of ourselves and others, and to be more
and on the new year ahead.
many seriously impacted by Covid-19. present when given the gift of company among our loved
As is often the case with new
Our community was tested in other ways, as ones.
beginnings, it is also a time of
uncertainty. Last Rosh antisemitism, the crafty shapeshifter that is always on the As we reframe what planning looks like for 5781, it can
Hashanah, we wished each move, found new outlets during the pandemic. be difficult to determine how best to dedicate our efforts.
other a sweet year, unsure of With Statistics Canada reporting a rise in antisemitic There are many good causes that need our help. Instead of
the future but hopeful of incidents through 5780, our community from coast to coast being overwhelmed, be reassured that, for whatever
Judy Zelikovitz things to come. continued to unite, offering support where it was needed assistance you can offer, there is a worthy cause,
most. Indeed, this was the year we learned the many ways organization, or initiative looking for someone just like
As we herald the arrival of this new year, we do so
we could help and, for far too many, how to reach out to ask you. Federations are great starting places. Check out their
understanding that we control far less than we had
for help themselves. campaigns and learn what their various service agencies
thought. Normally, the uncertainty that comes with a new
As we renew our talk of new beginnings at the and not-for-profits are doing.
start is imbued with hope for the possibilities ahead.
This year, however, it is uncertainty itself that dominates. conclusion of a year defined by uncertainty, many wonder: Though much of the past year has been uncertain,
As 5780 draws to a close, we have learned that, during how can we plan for the year ahead? Rosh Hashanah presents us with a chance to start anew.
periods of uncertainty, we must seek what we can rely on: For 5781, we must change our approach and, instead of We can still hope for and work toward a better tomorrow.
the strength of our community and our resolve to face planning according to dates on a calendar, look at our 5781 will be a year defined not by our individual wishes
these unprecedented challenges together. character for the coming year. As Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz z"l, and schedules but by our collective character and
wrote: “This does not mean, however, that on Rosh commitment to our community. Planning for uncertainty
In 5780, the challenges were many, and our community
Hashanah one should make plans for the whole year. may seem counter-intuitive, but history has shown that we
met them with an empowering, inspiring, and united
That would be impossible...What one should do on this day have the capacity to come together and overcome even the
response.
is form a general picture of what ought to be the character darkest of times. As we look ahead to 5781, amidst all the
When urgent help was needed, social service agencies unknowns, one thing remains certain: our community will
and direction of this year.”
and not-for-profits mobilized, delivering food, providing continue from strength to strength.
services remotely, and offering support to those who For 5781, we can accept the uncertainty of what is to
needed it most. Jewish Federations, in Calgary and come and focus on the knowledge that we can rely on the Judy Zelikovitz is Vice President, University and Local
Edmonton, along with others in Canada, shifted their tested strength of our community. And that continued Partner Services at CIJA, the Centre for Israel and Jewish
focus to emergency fundraising campaigns to meet the strength is up to us. We can commit to volunteering our Affairs.
immediate needs of service agencies on the front lines, time and, if we can, donating our money. We can commit to
Celebrating Rosh Hashanah
while social distancing
By Rebecca Firkser while standing in the
kitchen waiting for chicken
to finish roasting is one of
(The Nosher via JTA) - Summer is turning to fall, and
life’s greatest pleasures.
with it, Rosh Hashanah approaches, marking the start of a
That way, you’ll still have a
new year and a moment of great reflection. As is the case
full loaf of bread for the pre-
with every holiday since the start of the pandemic,
meal blessing.
celebrations will look a bit different. With social distancing
in place and indoor gatherings limited, services are more While I’ve never been
likely to be performed online and there will be fewer, if any, mad about spending the
big meals where friends and family can break bread at the rest of the week reheating
same table. leftovers from a great meal,
you might want to scale
There’s no way around it: The start of this new year is
back a bit if you’re feeding
daunting — scary, even. Hard as it might be to find
fewer than three people.
silver linings these days, there are still so many
Instead of roasting a whole
ways to creatively observe Rosh Hashanah in the time of
chicken and preparing
COVID-19, even if you’ll be celebrating alone.
separate side dishes, opt for
I know for many people, celebrating Rosh Hashanah a one-pan dinner of broken
means one thing: a big meal. Your typical Rosh Hashanah down, bone-in chicken parts
prep might involve hitting six different stores in a day to with vegetables — everything cooks on the same tray (and embrace being apart, yet together in new ways, the less
find every specific ingredient for your 15-person dinner. you can use the bones for stock tomorrow, if you’re so we’ll feel stuck in this new reality.
Well, this year, you officially have permission to take a inclined). For dessert, make a smaller cake and eat it right This is also the perfect year to start a new tradition:
break. No brisket at the butcher? Who cares! Opt for a off the cooling rack. No one else is around, who’s going to Though I didn’t grow up observing the practice, this year
smaller chuck roast or treat yourself to a few bone-in short care if you use your fingers instead of forks? And bonus, I’m hoping to partake in tashlich, the ceremony in which
ribs. Heck, if you dread spending any more time in the whoever does the dishes in your household will be elated to sins are metaphorically cast off in front of a body of water.
kitchen than absolutely necessary, just grab a rotisserie find a manageable pile at the end of the night. With masks and social distance observed, this is the kind
chicken and head to the wine shop. No one is going to judge of outdoor activity that’s relatively safe right now. Though
Hard as it is for food-lovers like me to admit, Rosh
you. we can’t have a meal together inside, meeting a few loved
Hashanah isn’t about the meal. Check in with your
Maybe you’ve never made challah from scratch but synagogue to see if they plan to host any special online ones to join together for such a ritual will remind us that
always wanted to? If you’re spending a bit more time at services — even through a screen, seeing familiar faces we’re not alone, and even in these dark times there’s still
home these days, why not dust off your grandma’s recipe? from your congregation might be the biggest comfort plenty for which to be thankful.
(Or, if you’re me, and your grandma didn’t bake so much as during the holidays. Reach
open cookie tins and ice cream containers, adopt a new out to extended family or a
recipe as your own — the basic challah recipe in Nosher group of friends to see if
editor Shannon Sarna’s book Modern Jewish Baker is a anyone wants to participate
great place to start.) You’ll probably want to make two in a big virtual meal as
loaves: I’m speaking from experience when I say that well. It’s challenging, no
“accidentally” polishing off half a loaf of warm challah doubt, but the more we
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Volume 31, Number 8, September 2020 permission from the
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PUBLISHER: Deborah Shatz expressed herein are not
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EDItOR: Daniel Moser Editor. Alberta Jewish News
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Judy Shapiro, Richard Bronstein
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Next Deadline: September 30, 2020
Page 6 Alberta Jewish News September, 2020
The anatomy of an apology A blast for everyone
By Jeremy Appel “David Q Milley”, shows an
adherence to the outlandish
QAnon conspiracy theory
Central to the practice of Rosh Hashana and Yom
that believes U.S. President
Kippur is the concept of t’shuva, or repentance. It’s the
Donald Trump is in the
time of year for self-reflection and apologizing to those
process of taking down a
we’ve wronged. But an apology must come from the heart.
“deep state” cabal of
It’s easy to just say, “I’m sorry you feel that way” or some pedophiles and Satanists.
variant, evading any personal responsibility by placing the
How did the algorithm
burden on the individual who has been wronged. This is
come to place this tweet in a
precisely how not to go about a genuine, sincere apology.
sitting MP’s feed?
A true apology involves an acknowledgement of what
Findlay is not some fringe
you did wrong, why it is wrong and an expressed desire to
figure in the Conservative
do better. It must come from an internal desire to do better
Party; she’s their former
for your fellow people, not imposed from outside.
environment critic. (though
This contrast was on display in Canadian politics she was not given a position
recently, when South Surrey-White Rock Conservative MP on their current shadow
Kerry-Lynne Findlay suggested newly-minted Finance cabinet). Yet O’Toole had no
Minister Chrystia Freeland is being instructed by George comment on the matter,
Soros based a 2009 video of Freeland interviewing him referring reporters to her Don't miss out! Chabad of Edmonton will have an outdoor Shofar
when she was a reporter at the Financial Times. Findlay Twitter statement, which blowing on Sunday Sept. 20, 2020 at 12:45 PM on the lawn of the Chabad
quote tweeted a post of the video, saying it showed was no more than an attempt House 502 Wolf Willow Rd.
Freeland listening to Soros “like student (sic) to teacher.” at damage control.
“The closeness of these two should alarm every There was radio silence on this matter from the Jewish made to Black Lives Matter, a fact which is itself the basis
Canadian,” Findlay said in the tweet that tagged the Federation of Greater Vancouver. of far-right conspiracies. And it’s still up on their website
official Conservative Party of Canada account and freshly-
Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs’s Richard Marcheau four years later.
elected leader Erin O’Toole and was re-tweeted by This fixation on the finances of Israeli and Palestinian
did lightly criticize Findlay, correctly stating that “it’s
prominent Tory MP Pierre Poilievre
important also to know that even without intent, the effect NGOs dovetails with the agenda of Israeli prime minister
Soros, of course, is the bette noir of modern anti-Semitic can be antisemitic,” without reference to her statement. Benjamin Netanyahu, who has long sought to criminalize
conspiracy theories, which take the trope of a Jewish cabal
B’nai Brith Canada accepted Findlay’s non-apology, but NGOs critical of Israel, a brazen violation of civil rights
secretly controlling the world and replace it with an that an organization with as honourable a history as B’nai
cautioned that it may not have been entirely genuine.
individual billionaire who just so happens to be Jewish. In
some versions, casino magnate and Republican mega “While we accept Ms. Findlay's apology, we would have Brith ought to squarely oppose.
preferred she more directly address her own hurtful But blind support for Israel’s right-wing government
donor Sheldon Adleson, or another Jewish billionaire, is
swapped for Soros. actions in re-tweeting this hateful content and that she, leads many of those who purport to represent the Jewish
like all political leaders, should understand the impact of community to overlook anti-Semitism in quarters that are
After a social media backlash, Findlay deleted the post
their words in fostering antisemitism,” reads an unsigned staunchly pro-Israel, like the Conservative Party, while
and offered up a statement that only vaguely resembles an magnifying those that aren’t.
statement from B’nai Brith Canada.
apology. In perhaps the most egregious example, B'nai Brith
This ambivalence may be informed by B’nai Brith’s own
“Earlier today, I thoughtlessly shared content from what Canada co-sponsored a 2018 event with far-right political
history of dabbling in Soros conspiracism.
I am now learning is a source that promotes hateful commentator Ben Shapiro, who has said American Jews
conspiracy theories. I have removed the tweets and In 2016, B’nai Brith Canada’s website posted a brief post
by Jordan Zaitchik entitled “Jewish Billionaire George who voted for President Barack Obama, are "Jews in name
apologize to anyone who thinks I would want to endorse onlly." Shapiro was an online favourite of the 2017 Quebec
hateful rhetoric,” she said, without any reference to Soros Funds Groups That Support Boycotts of Israel."
mosque shooter, who visited his Twitter feed a few times a
Freeland, Soros or even the Jewish community, let alone It lists various civil society groups that have received day prior to the shooting.
any promise to do better in the future. funding from Soros’s Open Society Foundation for their
work in Israel and Palestine, such as Adalah and the New This is not the way to represent the Jewish community,
The statement makes it sound as if Findlay simply made with its many multitudes.
a careless retweet, rather than quoting the original post to Israel Fund, falsely claiming they all support the
international Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Perhaps some extra t’shuva is in order for some of our
express her agreement and trying to bring it to the
attention of her party and its leader as if it were an urgent movement targeting Israel, depicting Soros as the hidden community leaders.
matter. hand behind it.
Jeremy Appel is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter for
A cursory glance at the feed of the account she tweeted, The piece also mentions a $45,000 grant the foundation Alberta Jewish News.
Israel normalizes ties with United Arab Emirates
(JTA) — In a diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and the “Israel will suspend declaring sovereignty over areas the region could come soon, the Times of Israel reported.
United Arab Emirates are normalizing ties. outlined in the President’s Vision for Peace and focus its “Things are happening that I can’t talk about,” he said.
As part of a peace deal brokered by President Donald efforts now on expanding ties with other countries in the After promising the move during multiple election
Trump, Israel will pause its plans to annex areas of the Arab and Muslim world. The United States, Israel and the campaigns last year, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
West Bank, according to a joint statement released United Arab Emirates are confident that added diplomatic Netanyahu had been pushing to annex parts of West Bank
Thursday by the White House. breakthroughs with other nations are possible, and will around July 1. The plans were delayed after the Trump
work together to achieve this goal,” the statement read. administration voiced concern with the idea.
The statement, which referred to the two countries as Meanwhile, the king of Saudi Arabia has thrown cold
“two of America’s most reliable and capable regional water on the assurances of Jared Kushner, that all Arab
partners,” said that Israel and the UAE will sign countries will follow the United Arab Emirates’ lead and
agreements in the coming weeks related to investment, normalize ties with Israel.
tourism, air travel, security, opening embassies and more.
The two nations also will work together on developing a Saudi Arabian King Salman bin Abdulaziz said his
vaccine for the coronavirus, it said. country would not pursue normalization with Israel until
there is peace between Israel and the Palestinians.
The Gulf states have been growing closer with Israel in
recent years, but the UAE is the first to establish formal The king told Trump that his kingdom appreciates
ties with the Jewish state. The countries share a goal of efforts made by the United States to bring about peace but
countering Iranian influence in the Middle East. that Saudi Arabia would like to see a peace treaty based on
the Arab Peace Initiative, which was proposed by Saudi
Most Arab countries do not recognize Israel’s existence. Arabia in 2002, the state-run Saudi Press Agency reported.
The Jewish state currently has ties only with Egypt and
Jordan. Saudi Arabia opened up its air space to allow an
airplane carrying Israeli and U.S. diplomats to fly through
“The UAE is employing its decision for normal relations its airspace, offering some hope that it might be open to
with Israel,” the UAE’s foreign minister said in a changing its relationship with Israel. The kingdom later
statement, according to the Times of Israel. announced that it would allow any airplane from any
Speaking to media, Trump suggested that agreements country arriving or departing from the UAE to use its
between Israel and some of its other Muslim neighbors in airspace.
September, 2020 Alberta Jewish News Page 7
The Jewish Federaon of Edmonton - United Jewish Appeal
wishes to acknowledge the following generous gi s
received during the 2019 UJA campaign:
Hineni: $100,000- $199,999 Susan & Bruce Mintz Lissa Antflick Ariel Sniderman & Faren Hochman Steven & Bettina Schwarzman Martina Crory
The Ghermezian Family Norbert & Patricia Morgenstern David Bookhalter Paula Snyder Roni Sheps Daniella Drisdell
The Katz Family Aaron & Jean Oshry Teddy Braun & Lisa Davidson Gerald Sorokin Stewart & Rose Shinewald Rhonda Eidelman
Irving & Dianne Kipnes Clive & Heidi Oshry Robert & Krista Brick Daniel & Marina Starkman Wayne & Cheryl Shur Barry Estrin
Ruth Pakes Sheila & Stan Bronson Boris & Teresa Sukalsky Linda Silverman Fani Estrin
Philanthropists: $25,000- $49,999 Errol & Renee Raff Anne Fanning Binder Esfira & Zalman Vaynshteyn Frances Simon Bernie Estrin
Harry & Pam Kipnes Debby Remis & Irv Yaverbaum Shim Fialkow & Family Jini Vogel & Alex Krimberg Anita Sky Gail Estrin
David & Pamela Margolus Carol & Ron Ritch Tobey Freedman Rick & Nikki Vogel Earle & Ruth Snider Cory Felber
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Ambassadors: $15,000- $24,999 Carole & Stan Rutwind Shirley Goldberg Mitchell & Amy Weinberg Ken & Natalie Soroka Frida Feldman
Len Dolgoy & Catherine Miller Ann Davis Secter Rob & Brandy Graesser Edward Yedgarova Shira Spring Sapir Fellus
Arliss Miller Perry Segal Nina Hardin Susan Yedgarova John Michael & Patricia Terrett Colette Frohlich
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Page 8 Alberta Jewish News September, 2020
instance where both gender and class hierarchies are built for the festival of Sukkot, celebrated for 7 days
Places of inspiration collapsed. starting at the full moon of Tishrei. The rules for building
But reading over Rabbi Heschel’s words, my mind is no a Sukkah ensure that the structure we create both
By Rabbi Gila Caine longer quiet. What liturgical movement are we expected to protects us from the elements but enables us to feel them
create? How do I understand “revolution” in this context? (we should have shade from the sun but must also see the
The Merriam Webster online dictionary gives this stars). We often teach that the Sukkot remind us of the
“Prayer is meaningless
etymology: “from Latin revolvere to revolve.” To revolve is huts the children of Israel lived in while wandering the
unless it is subversive, unless
to roll or move around an axis (physically or mentally); it desert. This year I would like to suggest they are a
it seeks to overthrow and to
is to create movement while maintaining a centre. reminder of the Mishkan, the sacred gathering place of
ruin the pyramids of
In Hebrew, the word / “chag” (holiday or festival, as in B’nei Israel in their wanderings. A moveable, soft, sacred
callousness, hatred, oppor-
Chag Shavuot) has the same definition: to revolve, to move structure, giving image to holiness in the wilderness.
tunism, falsehoods. The
liturgical movement must in a circle around a common centre. Ancient festivals are During Chag Sukkot (here is that word again!), we leave
become a revolutionary called “chag” most probably because the ritual involved our strong homes behind, we leave our imagined security
movement.” (Rabbi Abraham some form of circle dance or movement. and stability, move into a hut, and discover it is beautiful!
Rabbi Gila Caine For liturgical revolution to find a home, we need to That is the true revolutionary power of Sukkot – flimsy
Joshua Heschel)
create structures that can move but maintain a centre. structures are decorated and made lovely, during the only
The power of these words, taught to me by Rabbi Arthur
I am reminded here of the difference between the Mikdash festival where we are instructed (!) to be joyful. Sukkot
Waskow, grounds me as I weave our T’fillot for High
(Temple) and the Mishkan (Tabernacle in the desert). reminds us that being outside our comfort zone can be
Holidays. In Heschel’s theology our synagogues turn from
One was a solid (imagined) centre, strong but immovable. created in joy and done in beauty. Sukkot is a time to
places of rest to places of action. No more places that
The other, the Mishkan, was softer, but helped us maintain imagine what joyfully being part of this world could feel
uphold society’s problematic aspects, only places of honest
our centre in a changing place, while we circled around it. like, and this is what our synagogues, liturgy and ritual
questioning. This idea draws a large question mark over
Our synagogues are fashioned after the Mikdash should also learn how to do.
the entrance to each of our Batei Knesset (Houses of
Gathering) and asks, what for? Why do we gather? Beyond (sometimes shuls are referred to as “Mikdash me’at,” In the coming decades of massive change in the
the legitimate need for Jewish companionship and the minor temple). This leads them to be physically and environment, society and technology, our Jewish sacred
craving for familiar melodies and prayers, what is the mentally [emotionally?] stable, but not as nimble as the spaces cannot remain only places of refuge. They cannot
meaning of this gathering? For generations now, the tabernacle. Synagogues tend to become more of a refuge even remain just places of learning or celebration.
Reform movement has answered with social action and the from the outside world, which is important, but not always Rather, they should become places of inspiration for what
ethics of Tikkun Olam. The creative transformation of our a guide for the wanderings in our fast-changing reality. our world could look like, portals to the world-as-it-could-
liturgy speaks to that, with examples such as the Amidah Perhaps congregations also need a minor tabernacle? be, guiding centres as we walk through the developing
prayer in which we now mention our foremothers Sarah, [“Mishkan me’at”? ] wilderness of the unknown.
Rivkah, Leah, Rachel, Bilhaa and Zilpah, along with What could these little tabernacles look like? One image
which came to mind is the Sukkah: a small temporary hut Rabbi Gila Caine is the spiritual leader at Temple Beth
forefathers Avraham, Issac and Yaakov. This is just one
Ora, Edmonton’s Reform Congregation.
that the new year will be sweet.
Bring some sweetness to Brussels sprouts HONEY-BALSAMIC GLAZED BRUSSELS SPROUtS
By Ronnie Fein pot pie. Ingredients:
I never imagined how versatile Brussels sprouts are. 1 pound Brussels sprouts
(JTA) -- In 2008, Heinz conducted a survey that My husband tasted every dish, loved most and became a 2 tablespoons olive oil
identified Brussels sprouts as America’s most hated “Brussie convert.” We’ve been feasting on the stuff ever salt to taste
vegetable. Even people who never tasted them were since. 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
naysayers, claiming Brussels sprouts were bitter and It helped that there are health benefits: Brussels 1 tablespoon honey
smelly. sprouts have loads of vitamins A, C and K; iron,
1 teaspoon finely grated fresh orange peel
My mother never cooked them. She feared insects might beta-carotene and folic acid. Also, we discovered that
despite the strong “perfume,” Brussies are worth cooking. Directions:
be hidden among the tightly packed leaves. And when I got
married, my husband refused to eat them and joked that if Also, you get familiar with the odor. 1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Line a baking sheet with
I cooked any he’d file for divorce. Brussels sprouts are sold loose or on stalks. The stalks parchment paper. Wash and trim the Brussels sprouts
are cheaper and last longer. You can cook the small ones (if large, cut them in half).
Years later a food editor asked me to write about – yes -
- Brussels sprouts. My kitchen became a Brussels sprouts whole, but it’s best to cut the larger ones. 2. Place the vegetables on the baking sheet. Pour the
extravaganza. I cooked the vegetable every way possible: Because of the pandemic, we’ll just be two for dinner this olive oil over them and toss to coat them. Sprinkle with
roasted, stir-fried, steamed. I halved them, shredded them, Rosh Hashanah. Our menu is braised chicken, egg noodles salt to taste. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, tossing the
left them whole. I made them with lemon and with hazel and this blessedly simple dish of Brussels sprouts ingredients once, or until slightly browned around the
nuts, olive oil, Balsamic vinegar. I used them in hash and seasoned with Balsamic vinegar and honey, which are edges tightly packed.
lovely, sweet counterpoints 3. Mix the vinegar, honey and orange peel, pour over the
the vegetable’s mild sting. vegetables, toss and bake for another 10 minutes or until
Honey signifies the hope the Brussels sprouts are tender. Makes 4 servings.
September, 2020 Alberta Jewish News Page 9
JNF Gala Cont. from page 2
Seinfeld’s famous vignettes. Odette and Jacob’s casual
conversations while driving in a Range Rover were
delightful. They offered insights about their early years –
some serious and some joking – in a very clever setting.
Another highlight was the relaxed armchair interview
of Odette and Jacob by their good friends and event
co-chairs Sue and Alvin Winestock. The two couples were
casually sitting in the back yard enjoying a sunny
Edmonton day and talking about the Masliyah’s lives,
their values and achievements. The warmth of the day
was matched by the warmth of the conversation and the
informal setting allowed their personalities to shine.
“My first class was grade 2,” reminisced Odette, who Honourees Jacob and Odette Masliyah reminisced in a very clever segment entitled "Honourees in
taught at Talmud Torah School for many years. cars getting coffee." Emcee Jared Paull and his company Reel Mensch Production delivered a very
“They were phenomenal kids; of course, I still remember creative and entertaining Negev Gala video production.
them. Many of them are parents now with beautiful kids
and beautiful careers. When I talk about the kids I taught
(over the years) or the families at Talmud Torah – it is just Glowing reviews from the 2020 Edmonton JNF Negev Gala
like family to me. In Judaism we always say you build a Of course, your stories were fascinating, touching, you and to all the producers, directors and performers.
good community on good education.” harrowing and, dare we say educational. We have to say Beautifully done, loved the medal scene at the
When asked about the House of Excellence project in that we were quite thrilled to see where the funds raised beginning and the chats in the car. Managed to squeeze so
Sderot, Jacob, an Officer of the Order of Canada, and are going, such a great use of money. much history and facts in so little time.
renowned researcher, author and lecturer said: “The idea is Mazel tov on your most deserved honour and an You shared an important part of Jewish history. Your
to have an educational centre. Odette and I are both inspiring gala. The gala was what many are looking for as journeys from Baghdad to Edmonton, as well as those of
involved in education, so it was a natural thing to go for. an alternative to the standard Gala format. You were other Sephardic Jews, were fascinating and courageous.
For us being immigrants in Canada (and I don’t like that "cutting edge" once again. You are true Canadians ...and how lucky we are that
term) we believe in education. And for me personally, I Wow! Outstanding! Creative, informative, classy and you came here as immigrants to enrich our city, this
truly believe that the only way to do well anywhere in the polished. We enjoyed every minute. Mazel Tov again to province and indeed this country!
world is to have an education because it is yours and it is
transportable.”
Drinking cappuccino on the balcony at the end of the juice that the Masliyahs have provided for us all over the The KKL/JNF Canada House will serve as an after-school,
event, Jacob recapped, “We were very disappointed past four decades. We are extremely appreciative of their informal education, empowerment, and enrichment centre
initially that we could not have a gala dinner with people warm and dedicated service to our community and to for high school youth from Sderot and its surroundings.
because it’s very nice to see people and friends that you Israel. The aim is to provide students with the necessary tools
haven’t seen in a long time. But now looking at what has “My life-long relationship with the Masliyah family and skills for academic and personal success. Given its
been done so far with interviews, with laughing and joking made it very easy to have some fun with them and to location in a volatile region, the facility will be built to
and some pretending here and there – actually it wasn’t so create something really enjoyable to watch,” said Jared withstand direct missile attacks.
bad really.” Paull. “It was important for us to use this new format not Karen Kayemet l’Yisroel (KKL) is matching donations
“Not only are we celebrities, but we are professional talk as a consolation option, but as a privileged way to learn dollar for dollar so, for every dollar raised at the Edmonton
show guests,” added Odette. “It was a win, win situation. more about our culture, get to know the honourees... and Gala, KKL will contribute the same. JNF Canada invites
As people say, if you have a lemon, you make a lemon wear our pajamas while we attend the gala.” you to join in creating a better Israel by supporting this
juice.” innovative education and community project. For more
The funds raised at the 2020 Negev Gala will go towards information, to access the film and the informative
Haha, laughed Jacob. “I’ve never heard you say that program book that accompanied the event, contact
before.” the creation of the KKL/JNF Canada House for Excellence,
in Sderot, the Israeli city edm@jnf.ca or 780-48-7881.
The Edmonton Jewish community - and the community
at large - has benefitted tremendously from the lemon closest to the Gaza border.
Wishing everyone Shana Tova U’Metukah
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Page 10 Alberta Jewish News September, 2020
average person is exposed to around 7000 advertisements The surreal reality of seeing society humbled to a bare-
Recalibrating extras per day – each one vying for our emotional investment
ultimately blurring the line between need and want,
bones existence encouraged us to scrutinize every aspect of
our lives and deem it essential or extra. Even personally,
and essentials between the essential and non-essential.
We have become accustomed to perceive the extras as
having done the ‘juggle-struggle’ of balancing being a
teacher / camp counselor / friend / father / husband and
essential. Take our phones as an example, where we do community Rabbi all in a day’s work, certain aspects of
By Rabbi Zolly Claman routine had to be reassessed. What would make the cut
pretty much everything from them and where making a
simple phone call has become their least used feature! and be embraced as ‘essential’?
The year of 5780 Many times, of course, all the ‘extras’ are beautiful and Within a spectrum the answer is most certainly
corresponding to the secular convenient, but our downfall is perceiving them as needs, subjective whereas certain things humanity at large
year of 2020 will be thus losing sight of what really is indispensable . agrees upon. The importance of relationships in our lives
remembered as anything but are essential.
At the start of the lock-down era, we saw the closing of
ordinary. The world at large
all non-essential business, as society was stripped down to I had a very typical reaction to many at the start of the
experienced a complete
its most fundamental and basic iteration. Hospitals, lockdown; I called old friends and mentors that I had lost
upheaval and as individuals
pharmacies and groceries were what remained touch with through the years to catch up. The extra time
there was so much pain,
functioning, while everything else was forced to close their on our hands reminded us of the most important asset we
suffering and loss.
doors. have in our lives – our family and relationships.
This edition of Alberta
Along with the non-essential businesses, synagogues If there is one commitment we must all make while
Jewish News for Rosh
around the globe followed suit. Here was a powerful the world starts to open up this year, it should be to
Hashana 5781, represents a
example of this re-calibration. The essential aspect of draw a bold line separating the essentials from the extras.
freshly turned page away
Judaism is our personal relationship that needs to be With that done we will become much better at making sure
from the year of struggle.
nurtured and cultivated within the home. Coming to that the former never gets sacrificed in order to indulge in
This era, however, did not
Rabbi Zolly Claman synagogue, like being able to do banking on our phone, is the latter.
come without silver linings.
the cherry on top. It is beautiful and important, to mold On Rosh Hashana we will all pray to be sealed in the
As a parent of young children, I can tell you that when ourselves, our homes and our families into a community –
school started it was hard to see them return to other book of life. May this year bring healing and recovery.
pray and grow together, however Judaism within the home And may we all experience it with a refreshed appreciation
influences. As positive as school can be, there was is the only truly essential aspect. What does the Shabbat
something exceptional about being able to create our own of the essential components in our lives.
table look like when there is no kiddush at shul to fall back
little bubble and oasis at home. Having them at home with on? Is there excitement, song and joy that accompany the Rabbi Claman is the spiritual leader at the Beth Israel
us was a true blessing. Friday night candles even without the joint Lecha Dodi at synagogue, Edmonton’s Modern Orthodox congregation.
Another silver-lining was the complete re-calibration of synagogue? Are we committed to the Shema even though
what it means to be “essential.” Our lives are blessed with no one is watching? These are the essential aspects of our
a multitude of extras. We live in a society where the relationship with G-d.
Braitman says Hillel is hoping to engage more Jewish
Hillel increases its online activities graduate students, who often don’t have the time to
participate in extracurricular activity.
By Jeremy Appel This year, they are moving all their events online, so “We’re hoping that with these virtual platforms, we’ll see
past activities like BBQs and pool parties are not feasible. an increase in availability for those students and a little
Leadership for the Hillels in Calgary and Edmonton say “This presents an entirely new set of challenges, but also bit of a different vibe for Hillel altogether,” she said.
that although this school year poses a unique set of a lot of opportunity to engage people who maybe aren’t so Edmonton Hillel is taking a more blended approach,
challenges with limits on physical interaction, a shift to comfortable in a group setting, or don’t have a vehicle, or with smaller in-person gatherings, in addition to virtual
more online activity could provide them with the have more time constraints, to give them that chance to events.
opportunity to reach more students than before. connect,” Braitman said. Lior Erlich, Edmonton Hillel’s president, says their
“It definitely has had an impact, and time will tell On average, there are about 20 students in Calgary face-to-face events will require students to RSVP and will
whether it’s a positive or negative impact,” says Calgary signed up with Hillel each year, she said. mostly take place outdoors, so they can ensure appropriate
Hillel director Danielle Braitman. Since Calgary’s post-secondaries are largely commuter physical distancing.
At the beginning of past school years there was an campuses, it’s been a challenge in past years to bring all “At the same time, we still want to bring out this sense
emphasis on tabling and recruitment at the University of the students together for Shabbat dinners, since they often of community, because it can feel very isolating for
Calgary and Mount Royal University, with an in-person have them with their families, says Braitman. different people who aren’t having the same interactions
kickoff gathering at the start of the year. This year, they will be hosting virtual Shabbat and they can usually get from Hillel,” said Erlich. “We want to
They don’t have an official presence at the Southern Havdalah services to gauge student interest, with the goal maintain this communication between others who can feel
Alberta Institute of Technology, nor the Alberta College of of doing them in person once physical distancing is they are part of the Jewish community that is there to
Art and Design, but welcome students from both colleges. relaxed. support them and have their backs. Everyone will still
Hillel is putting together welcome packages for their have as much fun as we normally have.”
“Calgary Hillel operates on multiple campuses, so the
students don’t always have that opportunity to come membership this year, providing them with Shabbat and Edmonton Hillel has its main operations at University
together,” says Braitman. “We do a split between holding Havdalah ritual kits, as well as wellness kits to provide of Alberta, but also has students from the Northern
events at the Jewish community centre, a separate venue students with mental and physical health resources, she Alberta Institute of Technology and MacEwan University,
or doing things on the individual campuses.” added. as well as Grade 12 students who are going into university,
she added. Typically, they have 20 to 30 members.
Some activities, particularly those that generally occur
indoors with a large amount of students, such as their
Jeopardy-style quiz event, will be moved online.
Erlich says this provides an opportunity to reach more
students who may be shy about attending in-person
activities.
“They may have more confidence to engage with online
events than through direct contact events,” she said.
Jeremy Appel is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter.
Wishing you
and your family
a sweet and healthy Hon. Kaycee Madu
MLA, Edmonton - South West
New Year! (Minister of Justice)
Constituency Office
5160 Windermere Boulevard
Edmonton, AB T6W 0L9
For inquiries about services and activities,
please call the office at 780-488-2840.
BETH ISRAEL
EDMONTON’S FAMILY SHUL
780.415.8692
Edmonton.SouthWest@assembly.ab.caYou can also read
