Local News
Friends of Israel hold “Honour Israel Night”
By BERNIE BELLAN Friends of Israel is a Christian non-evangelical organization dedicated to providing support for the State of Israel. Founded in 1938 by a group of concerned Christians in Philadelphia who had just witnessed the Nazi savagery of Kristallnacht, FOI actually predated the founding of the State of Israel by 10 years.
On September 22 FOI held what was called “Honour Israel Night” at a small church in west St. James. The event had been much postponed as a result of Covid – and the fact that the evening marked the 74th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel might have seemed a little odd to attendees – considering that Yom Ha’atsmaut fell this year on May 6. Still, as organizer John Plantz noted in remarks made to attendees, “better late than never.”
The small basement hall of New Life Sanctuary Church was packed with individuals who were either there because they support FOI or because, as was the case with representatives of Canadian Friends of Magen David Adom, they have a special relationship with FOI. It wasn’t quite the setting that the Victoria Inn provided the last time FOI held an Honour Israel Night, which was in October 2018, but it was a “haimesh” (not an “Amish”) atmosphere.
Also, similar to that FOI event four years ago, this most recent evening also marked the donation of an ambulance scooter to Canadian Magen David Adom – this time through the combined efforts of Larry and Tove Vickar, along with FOI. (The cost of an ambulance scooter is $40,000, we were told, of which Larry and Tove contributed half.) By the way, the ambulance scooter that was donated in 2018 was donated by Helen Atnikov, who passed last year. And, speaking of ambulances donated to CMDA, we would be remiss not to mention again the incredible generosity of Ida and Saul Alpern who have donated not one, but two ambulances to CMDA.
One further note: FOI worldwide has now donated six ambulances and six ambulance scooters to Magen David Adom.
The evening was a somewhat odd outpouring of love and affection for the Jewish people who, we were reminded several times, are God’s “chosen people” and to whom the land of Israel was promised in the Bible. (Not that I needed to reiterate that point, but in all honesty, I’m not entirely comfortable hearing that we have a “God-given right” to Israel. Over to you, Myron, for a fierce rebuttal.)
What the evening also included was a speech by Rady JCC executive director Rob Berkowits – who told me beforehand that he wasn’t quite sure why he was asked to be the special guest speaker.
But, Rob proved to be an eloquent speaker after all. He wove together his own initial familiarity with Israel when he was an evening student at the Rosh Pina many moons ago when the Jewish National Fund would hold an annual quiz for students, testing their knowledge about Israel. Rob told the audience that he always “aced” those tests and a certificate he won for finishing first one year was proudly hung on his bedroom wall.
Rob also told of his father, Alex – who was a Holocaust survivor, and Alex’s own love for Israel. “When there was a story about Israel on the news,” Rob said, “my father would tell me, my brother and my two sisters, to immediately keep quiet.”
In 2011 Rob became executive director of the Manitoba-Saskatchewan branch of the JNF. He had already been to Israel several times before, but he related that “the more I learned about Israel, the more I fell in love with Israel.”
In 2015 Rob moved over to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba where, he explained, “I was tasked to grow the assets of the Foundation” which, at the time he joined, were $100 million. Four years later, Rob had helped grow those assets by an additional $20 million, he said.
As part of his duties, Rob noted, “I worked with specific donors to show them specific opportunities” where a donation to the Foundation could have immediate and practical effects. One time, Rob continued, “I took one donor to Israel. He had never been before.” That donor was so impressed with what he saw on that trip that he “funded a synagogue” in an Israeli town.
Following Rob’s remarks, there were speeches by other officials from Friends of Israel. I have to admit I was confused though, when two of those individuals related that they found out later in life that they were Jewish – and they now refer to themselves as “Jews.” I don’t want to get into this whole paradox of “Jews who accept Jesus as their saviour,” but suffice to say that it’s not an easy concept to wrap your head around.
Still, when audience members were asked to pick up the Israeli flags that had been placed in the centre pieces on each table and wave them, it was something to see.
I’m not sure how well this evening would have gone over with critics of Israel – of whom many are readers of this paper. But – thanks for the cake, John (Plantz). It was delicious.
Local News
Rady JCC about to launch J✡Fest Wpg – Culture Reimagined
This Fall, a brand new festival is coming to Winnipeg, unlike anything ever seen before. The question is: Will you be there? Launching October 26 and running for one week, JFest WPG is a first-of-its-kind celebration of Jewish culture and the arts – reimagined. The Rady JCC’s inaugural festival features an eclectic showcase of global Jewish art and culture, encompassing not merely the traditions of eastern Europe, but also Sephardic, Mizrachi and Israeli culture, and all manner of cross-cultural fusion. Though strongly focused on music, this is a multidisciplinary festival, including visual arts, workshops, and kids’ programs. JFest WPG is unlike any other festival the Rady has held before. We are reimagining culture and welcoming in a new generation of people of all faiths, backgrounds, and demographics. An absolute highlight of our festival is a live performance of Israeli superstar musician Idan Raichel. He will be playing an intimate showcase of piano songs at one of our guest venues, the Canadian Museum of Human Rights. Idan will realize his dream of getting up close to you, his audience, and present his songs in their original format of piano and voice. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Idan live, so be sure to grab your tickets before we sell out!
JFest WPG is proudly presented by The Asper Foundation with support from the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, and JNF Canada. Below is a full breakdown of all our various programs and workshops. Registration is now open and will fill up quickly. If you want to be a part of this incredible movement, we suggest jumping on sooner rather than later! Early bird pricing is in effect until September 15, 2024. And finally, Rady Members recieve 20% off the total cost of their registration. Sign up today. It pays to be a Member!

Glowing Embers: New Works by Manitoba Jewish Artists
Opening Reception: Saturday, October 26 | 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Gallery Viewing: Saturday, October 27 – Thursday, November 7 | Varying times
Rady JCC Adult Lounge | 123 Doncaster Street
Free (no registration required)
Glowing Embers brings together a collection of exciting and vibrant new works by both emerging and established Jewish Artists from Manitoba. The work runs from conceptual to realist and everything in between and highlights ideas of belonging, community, and home.
During the opening reception you will have the opportunity to appreciate the show, meet the artists and curators while enjoying some refreshments.Featured in this exhibition are the Rimon Art Collective (comprised of Mishelle Aminov, Yael Freifeld, Halley Ritter, Etel Shevelev, and Shan Pullan) and independent artists Elena El, and Joel Novak.
Idan Raichel: Piano & Songs
Sunday, October 27 | 7:30 p.m.
Canadian Museum for Human Rights | 85 Israel Asper Way
Early Bird Tickets: $45 | General Tickets: $50
For the first time ever in Winnipeg and direct from Israel, Idan Raichel brings his intimate piano songs performance to Winnipeg. In this concert, Idan will realize his dream of getting up close to you, his audience, and presents his songs in their original format of piano and voice.
Idan is an Israeli superstar producer, keyboardist, lyricist, composer and performer. He has become not only one of the most successful artists in Israel but also one of Israel’s leading music ambassadors abroad representing a world of hope in which artistic collaboration breaks down barriers between people of different backgrounds and beliefs.
This concert is presented by The Asper Foundation with support from The Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, JNF Canada, the JCC Association of North America, and the Inn at the Forks.
Want to see Idan in action? Click here to see him performing live!
Printmaking Workshop with Rimon Art Collective Monday, October 28, 7:00 pm Rady JCC Berney Theatre | 123 Doncaster Street Early Bird Tickets: $10 | General Tickets: $12 In this fun, engaging, and collaborative workshop, the Rimon Art Collective will teach you some of the basics of the art of linocut printmaking. You will learn all the tools and materials needed as well as techniques. From there, you will then be guided through the process in creating a small piece on your own. All works will be printed together on one large paper and displayed as a part of the Glowing Embers Art Exhibition, all in a celebration of community and connection through shared creativity. Beginners are welcome as no experience is necessary!
The Secret Poetess of Terezin by Lenka Lichtenberg Tuesday, October 29 | 7:30 p.m. Rady JCC Berney Theatre | 123 Doncaster Street Early Bird Tickets: $30 | General Tickets: $35 Juno award-winning Lenka Lichtenberg discovered two notebooks of poems written by her grandmother in the years 1942-1945 in Theresienstadt, a WWII concentration camp in Czechoslovakia. Through collaboration with esteemed Theatre Director Leah Cherniak, Lenka worked to transform these poems into this powerful solo show. The Secret Poetess of Terezin features passionate stories of love received, embraced, rejected, and lost; of relationships evolving and dissolving under the pressure of monumental historical events. The songs, along with spoken word pieces, videos and visual projections, will offer you an immersive and intimate performing arts experience.
Lady Muse & The Inspirations Play Amy Winehouse Thursday, October 31 | 7:30 p.m. Rady JCC Berney Theatre | 123 Doncaster Street Early Bird Tickets: $25 | General Tickets: $30 Amy Winehouse’s music has touched so many people around the world and endured with such a vibrant life of its own, because it is music that was written in her own blood and reflects the truths of her complex and complicated life. You are invited to join the talented and glamorous Lady Muse as she and her fabulous band – The Inspirations – present the music of Amy Winehouse. Featuring special guests Sheena Rattai (Red Moon Road) and INGIA, this all-star cast will be sure to have you dancing in your seat as they revisit the songs of one the 21st century’s most iconic and celebrated singer-songwriters.
An Evening of Burt Bacharach featuring Jennifer Hanson & Larry Roy Ensemble Saturday, November 2 | 8:00 p.m. Rady JCC Berney Theatre | 123 Doncaster Street Early Bird Tickets: $30 | General Tickets: $35 Burt Bacharach is one of the iconic composers of the 20th century, creating hit after hit for many of the best singers of his era, including Dionne Warwick and Karen Carpenter. Jennifer Hanson and Larry Roy have created a wonderful tribute to the late great composer, in a concert that will leave you wanting more. Jennifer has long been one of the most recognized vocalists in Manitoba, while Larry has been involved in every aspect of the music scene in Winnipeg as a guitarist and recording artist. The Jenn and Larry ensemble will feature vocalists Erin Propp and Karly Epp, trumpeter Richard Gillis, bassist Gilles Fournier, and drummer Daniel Roy.
‘Yeladudes!’ KidFest Sunday, November 3 | 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Rady JCC Gym & Berney Theatre | 123 Doncaster Street Early Bird Tickets: $8 | General Tickets: $10 Get ready for an unforgettable day of excitement and creativity at our mini festival specifically designed for kids. Enjoy interactive games, arts and crafts, live performances, workshops, storytelling sessions, face painting, wall climbing, bouncers, and more. On top of all this, indulge in delicious treats throughout the day. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled event for children of all ages! Special guest Rebecca Schoffer, Director of Jewish Family Life at the 92nd Street Y in New York, will be on there for a riveting performance as well. Rebecca is a musical and experiential educator, singer songwriter, and cantorial soloist.
Questions about JFest WPG? Contact:
Laura Marjovsky
Director, JFest WPG
204.477.7539 | lmarjovsky@radyjcc.com
JFest WPG Staff:
Karla Berbrayer
Musical Producer, JFest WPG
Shira Newman
Art Exhibit Curator, JFest WPG
Amy Karlinsky
Visual Arts Advisor, JFest WPG
Natali Halberthal
Producer, ‘Yeladudes!’ KidFest
Local News
Mark needs a liver
One of the purposes of this website is to help individuals and organizations reach an audience outside of the usual social media. While we do receive many requests to help publicize many worthwhile causes, we can’t give everyone publicity – as much as it would be nice to do that.
Recently we were made aware of a Winnipegger by the name of Mark Kagan, who is in desperate need of a liver donor.
Following is Mark’s story:
My name is Mark. I am reaching out with a humble request for help to find a living liver donor. I’m not someone who typically shares personal matters, but today, with the encouragement and support of my family, I’m sharing my story because I need your help.
Just a few months ago, I was a healthy and active 66-year-old, enjoying life to the fullest—working full-time, exercising daily, and making the most out of every moment. But everything changed when I was diagnosed with a non-alcohol related rare liver disease called nodular regenerative hyperplasia (NRH). This condition has taken a severe toll on my health, and now, I can barely walk unassisted.
There is no cure for my condition. My only hope for survival is a liver transplant. While transplants from deceased donors are common, the waiting list is long, and time is not on my side. That’s why I’m searching for a living donor—someone who can help save my life by donating a portion of their liver. I am not the type of person to mope and I will not let this stop me. I am strong-willed and plan to make it through this.
Who can help:
Anyone by sharing this page
Who can donate:
• Age: 16-60 years old (for liver donors)
• Blood Type: B+, B-, O+ or O-
• Health: Must have a healthy weight and a body mass index (BMI) under 35
The liver is an incredible organ that regenerates itself within 6 to 8 weeks, meaning that after part of the donor’s liver is removed, the donor’s remaining liver will regrow. If you or someone you know might be willing to help, the first step is to fill out the Donor Health History Form below.
https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Documents/Living_Donor_Health_History_Form.pdf
This form is reviewed by the UHN Transplant Program, and from there, the journey to becoming a donor begins.
For more detailed information about the living liver donor process, please visit the UHN Living Donor Program website below.
https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Living_Donor_Program/Pages/living_liver_donor.aspx
Your support means everything to me and my family. Even if you cannot donate, sharing my story could connect me with someone who can. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider helping in this crucial time.
For further information please go to www.MarkNeedsALiver.ca
Local News
U of M event commemorating October 7 attracts small crowd – and no protesters
By BERNIE BELLAN Is it noteworthy to lead a story by noting that an event at a university in North America which centered on Israel did not attract a single protester?
Such was the case at the University of Manitoba on October 7.
On that day, at noon, a small crowd that might have numbered 100 at its peak – made up largely of older adults, but with a sizable number of students as well, heard from various speakers marking a full year since the massacre of October 7.
It was a gloriously sunny day and, as attendees gathered in front of the university administration building, we couldn’t help but wonder whether the event would be disrupted by anyone. There was a fence barricade at some distance from where people had gathered – apparently to keep a distance between those who were there to mark October 7 and anyone who had it in mind to disrupt what was happening. While there were some students who did station themselves behind that barricade, there was nary a peep – or at least a peep loud enough to be heard by anyone, from any of them.
Speakers at the university event included Belle Jarniewski, Executive Director of the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada, and Rabbi Kliel Rose of Etz Chayim Congregation.
But, what was most remarkable about this event was not that it was a relatively quiet affair, rather, in contrast with what is currently going on – again – on some campuses in the U.S. – in particular at Columbia and Berkeley -where the massacre of October 7 is now being glorified, the U of M was a model of restraint that day..
We’ve noted before that, while some Jewish students have been concerned for their safety at the U of M – relative to other campuses across North America, the U of M has not seen the kind of rabid antisemitism that has marked so many other campuses.
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