Features
Debut novel from Montreal’s Ben Gonshor follows in the mould of Phillip Roth
Ben Gonshor is an award-winning writer, actor, musician and entrepreneur. His play, “When Blood Ran Red,” won the David and Clare Rosen Memorial International Play Contest at the National Yiddish Theatre in New York.
Now, with his debut novel, The Book of Izzy, Gonshor follows the likes of Phillip Roth in how The Book of Izzy is a captivating modern take on Jewish cultural touchstones and heritage.
“The Book of Izzy is a story about a man trying to find his own place between two worlds as he reckons with letting go of his painful past to focus on creating a fulfilling present. In the process, Izzy embarks on a fanciful, romantic voyage that not only forces him to come to terms with his Jewish identity, but to also confront the mystifying bird that holds the key to preserving the past and ensuring the survival of his heritage.
“Izzy is a writer who’s found himself in a series of downward spirals; between his recently failed love life, his faltering career as both a wedding planner and a novelist, and an ever-looming mental breakdown, he’s at his wit’s end.
“Filled to the brim with wit, candid discussions about navigating life with a mental illness, and an engaging cast of characters, The Book of Izzy is a captivating modern take on Jewish cultural touchstones and heritage.”
Following is an excerpt from The Book of Izzy:
“Hi, I’m Sue-Ann,” the twenty-something waitress said to me, extending a hand forthrightly and with the other lifted a shot glass, clinked it with Luba’s and downed it with a “L’khaim” that made you pay attention.
“Doubtful,” I thought to myself and immediately began calculating that the combination of brown bottle curls and olive skin combined with breasts and hips that curved in a way my bubbe would have approved of, didn’t add up to Sue-Ann. Then again, the piercing blue eyes and nose that would have survived a Gestapo roundup, suggested I could have been dead wrong.
I wasn’t.
“Sue-Ann, shmuann!” Luba admonished her, then looked to me while pouring herself another shot. “Her name’s Soreh,” she said while pointing insistently to her new friend then drank, ripped a piece of bread from the loaf and tossed it in her mouth and proceeded to introduce me.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t get that?” Sue-Ann said re Luba’s unintelligible attempt to say my name in mid-chew.
“I’m Isaiah,” I introduced myself. “Friends call me Izzy.”
“Itzikl,” Luba offered with a giggle.
“ALubable!” Sue Ann said in that patronizing way common among dog-lovers when inquiring about a breed they’ve never seen around the run. “And so Jewish…I like that,” she purred then knowingly struck a pose that emphasized her personalities, while simultaneously resting her right palm on the flesh of its adjoining hip that now introduced itself into the conversation, teasing a hint of color that I imagined made for something interesting further below. She then capped it off with a smile that revealed two perfectly formed dimples on either side, the kind so charming as to inspire a Rumshinksy tune.
“You didn’t drink your shot,” she reproached me playfully, pointing at the offending glass on the table that I knew better than to touch. “How about a beer?” she suggested with pride, “we brew in house.”
“Sure,” I answered, still somewhat sensory overloaded. “But nothing too hoppy, I’m not into drinking flowers.”
“Double IPA coming right up!” she said, clocking my narishkeit then brushed her hand expertly on my shoulder as she turned to leave. “You’re right, he’s cute,” she said to Luba, then winked in my direction before heading off toward the bar.
“Let me guess,” I began to ask Luba, who looked at me with a Cheshire grin on her face that told me everything I needed to know: “She’s Leah,” I said, referencing the lead female character in The Dybbuk.
Her giggle this time was more of an outburst of joy, as she clapped her hands near to her face and rocked back and forth happily, like another bet she made was about to pay off.
“Where’d you find her?” I asked, gazing in the direction of the bar where Sue-Ann and her pals were huddled and looking right back at us.
“I didn’t, she found me,” Luba answered and waved in their direction. “I like her. We’ve been spending a lot of time together.”
“Clearly,” I said and returned my attention back to the table. “She’s an actress?”
“Nope.”
“So why is she playing Leah?” I asked somewhat incredulously. Mind you, not that that it was any of my business but, knowing full well the chops required for the part, it seemed a fair question.
“She read for me, she feels the character deeply.”
“She speaks Yiddish?”
“Nope,” Luba answered again, with not an iota of concern in her voice.
“I don’t get it,” I said and continued, dumfounded: “You want me to play opposite someone who doesn’t speak Yiddish and on top of that you don’t even know if she can act?”
“I don’t know if she can act?!” she guffawed, repeating my question back to me aloud as if to make me hear how dumb it sounded. “What she just did naturally in that moment,” she continued, now more earnestly while gesturing with her finger in a circular motion as if to summarize a scene that had just played out at the table, “is more than some actors learn to do with a lifetime of training.”
“What do you mean?”
She didn’t answer, but cocked her head to the side instead and threw me a look like, again, I should have thought before I spoke.
“What?!” I said incredulously and could feel my cheeks starting to flush.
“She had you mesmerized,” she answered with a smile then drank another shot and tossed a piece of bread in her mouth.
“No she didn’t,” I lied.
Luba said nothing as Sue-Ann had now returned with my beer, a basket of gluten free tortilla chips and an assortment of cheeses, each of which she proceeded to describe as an award winning artisanal creation sourced from her friends at farms nearby, without specifying whether the pals she was referring to were the farmers or their animals cuz these days, you know, it could go either way. Regardless, as she side-straddled a chair that she’d pulled in from a nearby table and invited us to dig in, I thought better than to comment on the fact that without a quality goat on the cutting board, which admittedly was artfully presented along with an assortment of dried fruit and a delightfully sweet onion tartinade, what she put on the table was a whole lot of lactose intolerance.
The Book of Izzy
By Ben Gonshor
AOS Publishing
Publication date: May 2024
Features
Dishwasher Repair: Essential Tips for Homeowners
Dishwashers have become indispensable in modern kitchens, saving time and effort with every use. However, like any appliance, they are prone to wear and tear over time. While some issues require professional repair, many common problems can be addressed with basic troubleshooting. Here are essential tips every homeowner should know to keep their dishwasher running smoothly.
1. Regularly Clean the Filter
A clogged filter can lead to poor cleaning performance and even water drainage issues. Check and clean the dishwasher filter at least once a month to prevent buildup of food particles and debris.
2. Inspect Spray Arms
Over time, spray arms can become clogged with food particles or mineral deposits, reducing water flow and cleaning efficiency. Remove the spray arms and rinse them thoroughly under running water. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear blocked nozzles.
3. Address Drainage Problems
If water pools at the bottom of your dishwasher, the drain hose or pump might be clogged. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages, and ensure it’s positioned correctly. **Discover** how professional technicians can help resolve persistent drainage issues.
4. Use the Right Detergent
Using the wrong type of detergent can lead to excessive suds, which may damage internal components. Always use a detergent designed specifically for dishwashers and follow the recommended dosage.
5. Check the Door Seal
A worn or damaged door seal can cause leaks during operation. Inspect the rubber gasket around the door for signs of wear or cracks, and replace it if necessary to prevent water from escaping.
Common Dishwasher Problems and Solutions
- Dishes Not Drying: Ensure the rinse aid dispenser is filled and the heating element is functioning correctly.
- Unpleasant Odors: Run a cycle with white vinegar to eliminate lingering smells and clean internal parts.
- Unresponsive Controls: Check for loose wiring or a faulty control board.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Run hot water in your sink before starting the dishwasher to improve cleaning results.
- Avoid overloading the racks to ensure proper water circulation.
- Descale the dishwasher periodically if you live in a hard water area.
- Inspect the inlet valve and water supply line for leaks or damage.
Why Professional Repair Matters
While DIY fixes can address minor issues, more complex problems often require the expertise of a professional. According to a survey by the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, improperly repaired dishwashers can consume up to 20% more energy. Professional repairs ensure that your appliance operates efficiently and lasts longer.
Expert Insight
As the famous inventor Charles Kettering once said, “A problem well stated is a problem half solved.” Understanding your dishwasher’s common issues and addressing them promptly is the key to maintaining its performance. With regular care and timely repairs, you can avoid costly replacements and enjoy years of reliable service.
Conclusion
Maintaining your dishwasher doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these essential tips and addressing issues early, you can keep your appliance running efficiently for years to come. If you encounter a problem that you can’t fix on your own, don’t hesitate to consult a professional repair service for expert assistance.
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JeetCity — Your Best Partner in the World of Online Casinos in Canada
This review will introduce you to the best features of JeetCity — a unique online casino platform in Canada. Here there are detailed instructions for registering with JeetCity, making a deposit and much more useful information about games, bonuses, payment methods and more.
Explore the Exciting Features of JeetCity
You will be interested to know that JeetCity online casino in Canada has been making waves in the online gambling industry since its inception. Committed to providing an exceptional gaming experience, JeetCity has become a popular destination for casino lovers across the country. Since it is a licensed and regulated platform, players can enjoy their favorite games with peace of mind, knowing that fairness and safety are JeetCity’s top priorities.
JeetCity online casino boasts a wonderful visual design that recreates the atmosphere of a real casino, a huge selection of games that can satisfy the preferences of absolutely any player. Whether you prefer to play on the go or from the comfort of your home, JeetCity caters to your every need. A user-friendly website (https://jeetcity-ca.com/) and an intuitive mobile app make the games easy to play on a variety of devices. By becoming a JeetCity user, you will be able to immerse yourself in a world of exciting games, tempting bonuses and unparalleled entertainment.
Discover the Uniqueness of JeetCity Online Casino
You can see for yourself that the JeetCity online casino section is a real paradise for all players. It boasts of a stunning visual platform that brings the excitement of a real casino straight to your screen. In addition, there will be a huge selection of games for every taste. From classic table games such as blackjack and roulette to a wide range of slot machines and jackpot games.
Table games
At JeetCity, you can experience the most popular types of table games, the perfect blend of excitement and strategy for any type of player. Immerse yourself in timeless classics like blackjack, where your skills and decision-making will help you beat the dealer, or try your luck with the spinning roulette wheel, carefully choosing your bets for a big win. There is also a Baccarat, an exciting yet simple card game that is ideal for both new and experienced players.
Slots
At JeetCity, you will find an extensive collection of slot machines, ranging from classic three-reel slots to modern video slots filled with exciting themes and advanced features. Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic fruit machines or exciting story-based games, there’s something for everyone. With hundreds of games to select from, you can explore slots with unique bonus rounds, free spins and progressive jackpots for the chance to win big.
Jackpot Games
Experience the thrill of chasing life-changing prizes with progressive jackpot games at JeetCity. These games offer ever-growing prize pools that increase with every bet, giving you the chance to win huge payouts. From popular slot machines to unique jackpot options, JeetCity has something for every player.
Live Dealer Games
Get into the excitement of JeetCity Live Dealer Games, where you can play with professional dealers in real time from the comfort of your home. These games are streamed in high definition, creating an authentic casino atmosphere and live interaction. Whether it’s blackjack, roulette, baccarat or poker, you’ll feel like you’re sitting at a real casino table. Chat with dealers, other players and enjoy a smooth gaming experience.
Excellent Features of JeetCity Mobile App
It is worth noting that JeetCity app has become a famous name in the world of online gaming in Canada, captivating players with its exciting casino games and tempting bonuses. To cater to the growing demand for mobile gaming, JeetCity has developed its cutting-edge mobile app that allows you to enjoy your favorite casino games on the go. The app has been designed with a focus on user experience and convenience to provide a safe and immersive gaming environment. The mobile application is available for both Android and iOS devices, covering a fairly wide audience of users.
The JeetCity mobile app allows players to enjoy their favorite games without being tied to a desktop computer, guaranteed. And regular updates and notifications will definitely only improve your gaming experience. It is important to note that JeetCity app prioritizes the safety of its users by providing each of you with a safe and secure platform to enjoy your gaming sessions with peace of mind. Don’t wait, just download the JeetCity app now and embark on an unforgettable gaming adventure filled with excitement, rewards and endless possibilities.
Simple and Affordable Registration Process in JeetCity
Experiencing the excitement of online gaming at JeetCity is easy thanks to the easy registration process. Whether you are an experienced player or new to the world of online casinos, registering with JeetCity is very easy. To register with JeetCity, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- To get started, on your device in any browser convenient for you, go to the official JeetCity website;
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Now, once your account is verified, you can enter into the exciting gameplay of JeetCity and fully explore the unique features of the platform.
Discover Exciting Bonuses and Promotions at JeetCity Canada
At JeetCity, the ability to reward players with exciting bonuses and promotions that enhance the gaming experience and maximize winning potential is an important criterion for the platform. Get ready to jump into the world of online gaming with a host of tempting offers awaiting you at JeetCity today.
Welcome Bonus
The most popular type of JeetCity bonus, which allows you to start your gaming journey into the world of games with a pleasant reward of up to 200% on your first deposit. For example, if you deposit CAD 100, the bonus will give you an additional CAD 200, giving you a total of CAD 300 to play with. This incredible bonus allows you to explore a wide selection of games and maximize your chances of winning.
Free Spins
JeetCity is committed to giving players more chances to win, and that’s what free spins promotions are all about. Free spins allow you to try your luck on the most popular slot machines without spending your own money. JeetCity regularly updates its free spins offers, tying them to exciting new slot releases or special events.
Reload Bonuses
Reload bonuses are designed to keep your gaming experience interesting by offering a percentage match on your subsequent deposits. For example, when you fund your account, JeetCity rewards you with bonus funds based on a certain percentage of your deposit amount. These bonuses are a great way to boost your bankroll, giving you extra funds to explore more games and try new strategies.
Cashback Offers
In JeetCity, every player deserves a second chance, even if luck is not on their side. This is why the platform offers exciting cashback promotions designed to soften the blow of any losses. With a cashback bonus, a percentage of your net losses for a certain period will be returned to your account as a bonus. This means you can keep playing and have another opportunity to turn things around and win big.
Secure and Convenient Payment Methods in JeetCity
By becoming a user of the JeetCity platform, you can have absolutely peace of mind while playing, because the company maintains the maximum security of transactions of all its clients. The wide range of payment methods will allow you to fully control your gaming experience.
Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of credit or debit cards, the flexibility of e-wallets, or the anonymity of cryptocurrency, JeetCity has your needs covered. The most popular payment methods include using Visa and Mastercard, Interac, PayPal or Bitcoin.
It’s important to note that JeetCity Canada has a minimum withdrawal amount of 20 CAD, ensuring you can access your winnings when you’re ready. And for big wins, there is a maximum withdrawal limit of CAD 10,000 per transaction, giving you the opportunity to fully enjoy your rewards.
Easy Deposit Process at JeetCity
Rest assured, recharging your funds at JeetCity is a simple and secure process. Follow these simple steps to make a deposit and start enjoying an exciting gaming experience:
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- Select your preferred payment method from the wide range of safe and secure methods offered by JeetCity;
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- Your funds will be instantly credited to your JeetCity account, after which you can fully enjoy the world of online casino games.
How is the Process of Withdrawing Winnings in JeetCity?
Withdrawing your winnings at JeetCity is as easy as making your first deposit. Follow these steps to access your rewards:
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- Indicate the amount you want to withdraw from your account;
- Depending on the method you choose, you will need to follow further on-screen instructions;
- Once again, carefully check all the information you entered and send a request to withdraw funds;
- Please wait until your withdrawal request is processed.
The time required to receive funds vary depending on the withdrawal method selected and any additional verification processes. JeetCity prioritizes high speed and secure withdrawals to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for each of its users.
FAQ
What withdrawal methods are available in JeetCity Canada?
JeetCity offers a wide range of withdrawal methods to cater to the needs of its diverse customer base. Some options include Visa, Mastercard, Interac e-Transfer, PayPal and Bitcoin.
What promotions does JeetCity offer to players in Canada?
JeetCity offers a variety of exciting bonuses and promotions, including welcome bonuses, free spins, reload bonuses, cashback offers, and tournaments.
What sets JeetCity apart from other online casinos in Canada?
JeetCity offers a visually stunning platform, an abundance of games, lucrative bonuses, and a seamless mobile experience that truly replicates the atmosphere of a real casino.
Is JeetCity licensed and regulated?
Yes, players can trust that JeetCity prioritizes fairness and security as a licensed and regulated platform in the online gambling industry.
Can I play JeetCity games on my mobile device?
Absolutely! JeetCity is optimized for mobile play, offering a seamless experience across smartphones and tablets, so players can enjoy their favorite games anytime and anywhere.
Features
Susan Roadburg: The Road Less Travelled
By GERRY POSNER Robert Frost was not likely thinking of Susan Roadburg when he penned his famous line in the poem “The Road Less Travelled.” Yet, the line which says “Two roads diverged in the wood, and I took the road less travelled and that has made all the difference” certainly is a line which applies to the life and career of Sue Roadburg, once Susan Rumberg, daughter of the late Betty and Joe Rumberg. It was not a straight road for Sue, but it was a path with twists and turns.
A former resident of Montrose and later Oak Streets in the south end of Winnipeg, Sue finished her high school education at Grant Park High School. The plan was to get a BA and then enter either Nursing or Social Work. What stepped in her way was her first stop on the road – Eaton’s. Back then -the 1960s, Eaton’s had what was known as a junior council – one for males and one for females. Well, after a selection process, Sue was chosen by Eaton’s to be Grant Park’s junior councillor. She received a uniform and performed simple duties, including weekly meetings with senior Eaton’s executives, getting volunteers for the annual Eaton’s Santa Claus parades (Who could forget them?), ushering at Eaton’s sponsored rock concerts and sundry other tasks. From that time to many years forward, Sue and Eaton’s were a team. She even worked for them during her university years.
Clearly, the affection Sue had for her work at Eaton’s was reciprocated as, upon the resignation of the then youth fashion director, Sue was offered that job. Her plans for nursing or social work were derailed. Sue represented Eaton’s by making presentations at high schools; running “HI Set Clubs” for teens; coordinating shows for the University of Manitoba’s “ Freshie Week;” teaching the Seventeen Beauty Workshop; writing a monthly teen newsletter and monthly column for “Youth Beat” – which went to all Winnipeg high schools and selecting fashions for the weekly TV show, Teen Dance Party. You could say that Susan Rumberg was well into the teen world at that time. It was at this time when Susan became Sue as Eaton’s wanted her first and last names to have an unequal number of syllables. Maybe that is why Eaton’s closed up. But you can still call her Susan as many friends still do.
Then, an unusual turn of events led to Sue becoming what might be called the Miss Manners of Manitoba. Susan became connected by good fortune with a woman who ran courses on party manners throughout the US and indeed, for the president’s children. Through that relationship, Eaton’s in Winnipeg ran a course on the topic led by the then Susan Rumberg as she was the teacher of the course to hundreds of Winnipeg girls, ages 5-12. But soon Susan came to realize that she was ready to move on and settled in Montreal where she immediately learned French. The Bay became interested in her and she even upgraded her limited French speaking skills. Soon she had her doing staff training at the downtown store and she did it in both French and English. Not long after, she received an offer to become a buyer for the Bay – with crazy hours and lots of travel time. This was at a time when there were major issues in Quebec about separation, so the buying office moved to Toronto with the young Susan Rumberg – along with the whole department. Toronto brought marriage and three kids.
By this time, Sue was quite well known in the fashion world. She was approached by a student at Seneca College who was required to interview a buyer. At that time, Sue was the jeans buyer. This meeting led to another meeting and before Sue knew it, Seneca got wind of her very helpful role with their students and it was not long before Susan Roadburg was ensconced at Seneca teaching full time, eventually leading to teaching becoming the longest part of her career.
Sue’s teaching led to yet another twist in the road. As part of the course work a program was created for her to develop what was called a boutique “lab.” She taught and also was able to get her students involved in the translation of books into action. She would attend vendor appointments on Fridays with the merchandise managers and buyers. She also helped the advertising manager put on a huge fashion show at the big hall at Seneca Collage. The accounts payable manager paid all the invoices and presented financial statements, relating to what had been learned in Retail Math. (She also taught that subject.) A new class took over each semester. Sue developed an infrastructure for the class much like those of the large companies that her students aspired to work for upon graduation. In short, textbook theories were brought to life through this boutique experience, a kind of ‘hands-on” approach.
Sue just finished her teaching career a few years ago. She is still connected to the industry through FGI (Fashion Group International), an organization for executives in the fashion industry. She is even the nominating chair for the board of the only Canadian chapter located in Toronto. And Sue was recently recognized by FGI with what is known as The Visionary Award by FGI. This is what might be called reaching the top of the mountain in her field.
Sue’s road is less travelled to Winnipeg these days, but she still has some ties there. Her brother Ross Rumberg is buried there. There are still friends from her past. Her memories are strongly connected to her Winnipeg days. What Sue might also say is that Rumberg to Roadburg was the first of the many roads she travelled, but she is still charting out new paths.
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