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Community leader Elana Schultz has lifelong history of volunteerism

Elana Schultz

By MYRON LOVE Community has always been important for Elana Schultz. The daughter of Dr. Ben and Serky Goldberg credits her parents with showing her the way. (Her mother was the 2018 recipient of the Max and Mollie Shore Memorial Award.)

“I remember while still in junior high school (at the former Joseph Wolinsky Collegiate) volunteering at an early (Combined Jewish Appeal) Super Sunday at the old Y downtown,” says Schultz, who is currently Chair of the Jewish Federation Education and Engagement committee and co-Chair of BB Camp. “I was charged with taking the cards from the canvassers and delivering them to the CJA office on the second floor.”

Schultz grew up in Garden City and graduated from the University of Manitoba with a major in Statistics and a minor in Sociology. Following graduation, she spent a year in Israel. While she considered aliyah, she notes, she was already in a relationship with her husband-to-be, Myron Schultz, and returned to Winnipeg. The couple married in 1993.
While in Israel, Schultz worked for Dr. Ted Tulchinsky at the Ministry of Health, tracking health information for different populations. “I was doing statistical health research,” she recalls. “That work showed me how I could apply my education to real life.”

Back in Winnipeg, she worked for a year at CancerCare Manitoba doing data analysis before being recruited to join Viewpoints Research, a Winnipeg-based polling firm founded by the late David Gotthilf.
“Viewpoints was looking for someone with experience in data analysis,” she says.
Ten years ago, she left Viewpoints to start her own research company: Factor Research. “While I still do a lot of work for Viewpoints on a contract basis,” she notes, “having my own firm allows me greater flexibility in the assignments I take on.”
Her work, she says, involves opinion research, organizing and moderating focus groups, and writing reports. She reports that, over the years, she has worked with numerous member organizations, lately focusing on nurses and the organizations that represent and support them.
“We have worked with a lot of other organizations as well,” she adds, “both in the non-profit and for profit sectors. I enjoy the variety and learning about what each of our clients do.”

Although Schultz has through the years continued to volunteer as a CJA canvasser, her more active involvement in Jewish community leadership came about through her friendship with Judi Price Rosen. The former Torontonian came to Winnipeg after marrying Kevin Rosen (the son of former JP&N sportswriter Harvey Rosen). Shortly after arriving here in 2002, she joined the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg as Director of Leadership Development. (Price Rosen is now Director of Admissions at Gray Academy of Jewish Education.)
“Judi and I connected shortly after she moved here,” Schultz recalls. “Soon after she became director of Leader-ship Development, she invited me for lunch and asked me if I would consider becoming more involved with community.”
Price Rosen invited Schultz to become involved in the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s P2G (Partnership 2Gether) program, a student and teacher exchange program with students from Gray Academy and the Brock Corydon Hebrew Bilingual program going on trips to sister schools in northern Israel one year, then ,students from Israel coming here the next year. She also became active in Women’s Philanthropy.

In 2014, Schultz joined the board of BB Camp. (She is currently one of the two co-chairs (along with Leah Leibl.) All three of her children – Dafna, now 24, Abbie, 21, and Liat, 19, attended BB Camp, she notes.
“Leah and I take turns chairing the board meetings,” she points out. “We are involved in the different committees and work closely with the executive directors and staff.”

In addition to what has already been listed, Schultz is Chair of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s Education and Engagement Committee. “Our focus is engagement and outreach,” she explains. “We take a broad view of the community that goes beyond the Federation’s recipient agencies. We keep in touch with the synagogues and other independent organizations. We try to identify segments of our Jewish population that are not being serviced – certain age groups, perhaps, or single seniors – and fill in the gaps.”

So how does Schultz find the time to combine work and her numerous volunteer efforts? She credits the success of her volunteer endeavours to the capable staff – such as Jacob Brodovsky and Lexie Yurman at BB Camp and the Federation’s Florencia Katz and Dalia Szpiro – who put into place the programs that the Education and Engagement Committee proposes.
“The last couple of years that have been marred by Covid have certainly forced us to shift the way we operate,” Schultz observes. “Still, I look back at what we have been able to initiate and feel a sense of pride at what we have accomplished. We have been able to reach out to so many people.”

One of those programs that she singles out is the Welcome Baby program. Twice a year – pre-Covid – the Federation would host receptions for new parents in our community and provide them with gifts. “This past couple of years, we have been doing the receptions online and delivering the gifts to participants’ homes,” Schultz reports. “The feedback we are getting is that new parents really appreciate our efforts and the opportunity to connect with other young families.”
Coming up next Monday and Tuesday, Schultz’s committee is inviting staff and volunteers from Jewish organizations to join a virtual interactive workshop exploring “Best Practices for Creating a Welcoming Jewish Environment”. Interested readers can register at jewishwinnipeg.org/welcomingcommunity.

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Bobbie Rosenfeld: Canada’s Trailblazing Athlete and Advocate

Bobbie Rosenfeld was a force to be reckoned with. Not only was she a phenomenal athlete, excelling in both basketball and baseball, but she also became a fierce advocate for gender equality in sports. Her story is one of exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and a fight for change that paved the way for future generations of female athletes in Canada and beyond.

Early Life and Athletic Beginnings

Rosenfeld grew up in Montreal, Quebec, in a family that instilled a love of sports in her. Her father, a dentist, and her mother, a homemaker, encouraged Bobbie and her younger brother to participate in various athletic activities. Bobbie’s exceptional talent for basketball became evident early on. She honed her skills playing in local leagues and quickly established herself as a standout player. Her height, agility, and strategic mind for the game made her a formidable force on the court.

Meanwhile, Bobbie’s passion for baseball also blossomed. At a time when girls were largely discouraged from playing baseball, Bobbie defied expectations. She joined a boys’ league, disguising herself as a boy named Bobby Rosenfeld. Her talent was undeniable, and she thrived in the competitive environment. However, her true identity was eventually discovered, forcing her out of the league. This incident highlighted the stark gender inequalities prevalent in sports during that era.

Basketball Stardom and International Recognition

Undeterred by the setback in baseball, Bobbie poured her focus into basketball. Her dedication and talent paid off. She played for the Montreal YM-YWHA Wildcats, a dominant team that won numerous provincial and national championships. Bobbie’s exceptional skills earned her a spot on the Canadian women’s national basketball team in 1963. She quickly became a key player, leading the team to victory at the 1964 Pan American Games in Brazil.

Rosenfeld’s international success continued. She was part of the Canadian team participating in the 1967 FIBA World Championship for Women in Czechoslovakia. Though Canada placed sixth, Bobbie’s individual brilliance shone through. She was the tournament’s leading scorer, a testament to her offensive prowess. Her talent and leadership on the court garnered her recognition as one of the best female basketball players in the world.

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Breaking Barriers

Despite her athletic achievements, Rosenfeld faced constant challenges due to gender discrimination. Female athletes received little to no media coverage compared to their male counterparts. Opportunities for professional careers in women’s sports were virtually nonexistent. Funding for women’s athletic programs was scarce, hindering training and development.

Rosenfeld refused to accept the status quo. She became a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports. She used her platform as a star athlete to speak out against discrimination and demand better opportunities for female athletes. Bobbie and other pioneering women athletes lobbied for increased media coverage, improved funding for women’s sports programs, and the creation of professional leagues for women.

Her fight for equality extended beyond basketball. Rosenfeld and Judith Pogson, another prominent Canadian athlete, played a pivotal role in getting baseball officially recognized as a women’s sport in Canada in 1970. This decision opened doors for countless young girls who, like Rosenfeld, harbored a passion for baseball.

Beyond Athletics

Rosenfeld’s athletic career was tragically cut short in 1970 due to a car accident. However, her impact on Canadian sports and beyond continued to resonate. She became a symbol of athletic excellence and a tireless advocate for gender equality. Her legacy inspired a generation of female athletes to pursue their dreams and challenge the existing structures that limited their opportunities.

In recognition of her achievements, Bobbie Rosenfeld was inducted into the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985 and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1995. Her story continues to be a source of inspiration for young athletes, particularly girls, who strive for excellence in sports.

Final Thoughts

Bobbie Rosenfeld’s legacy extends far beyond her athletic achievements. She was a trailblazer who fought for equality and paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her unwavering determination, exceptional talent, and unwavering commitment to social justice continue to inspire athletes and advocates for equality today. Bobbie Rosenfeld’s story reminds us that courage, dedication, and a strong voice can break even the most significant barriers.

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Features

Toronto home sales up in February from last year as consumers eye rate cuts: TRREB

The Toronto real estate market saw a big increase in home sales this February. The increase was compared to the same period last year. The data comes from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB). This trend suggests an increasing optimism among consumers, potentially spurred by anticipations of rate cuts. The dynamics of the Toronto real estate market are indicative of a shift in consumer behavior and underlying market trends, reflecting broader economic signals and policy implications.

Home sales rose in February. This happened amid a complex mix of economic factors. These included the current interest rates, government housing policies, and global economic trends. The expectation of rate cuts is key. Lower rates cut borrowing costs, making mortgages cheaper for buyers. This prospect can increase demand in real estate. It will drive up sales and might impact prices.

Sales rose. This was due to the growing confidence of consumers. They are confident in the market and the broader economy. After uncertain times, like the pandemic, signs of recovery and stability can encourage buyers. Moreover, the rise in listings reported by TRREB. It suggests that sellers are also responding to these market conditions. They are providing more options for buyers. This is contributing to the market’s overall activity.

However, the dynamics of the Toronto real estate market are not without challenges. Housing affordability and supply problems are still key policy topics. More sales might make these issues worse. This might happen if demand outpaces the supply of homes. That would cause price hikes. The hikes could strain many buyers’ ability to afford homes.

In response to these challenges, many groups are exploring solutions. These include policymakers, developers, and community organizations. They want to increase housing supply and affordability. The strategies include changes in zoning laws. They also include incentives for affordable housing construction. And they include initiatives to help first-time homebuyers. These are the approaches being considered to address these pressing issues.

The TRREB report also shows the importance of staying informed about market trends. Economic indicators can affect the real estate market. Potential buyers and sellers can use these trends to make informed choices. Resources like Avalon offer valuable insights and information that can assist consumers in navigating the complexities of the real estate market.

As the Toronto real estate market continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor these trends and their implications for housing affordability, market stability, and economic growth. The increase in home sales in February is a positive sign, but addressing the broader challenges facing the market will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved.

The urbanization and immigration patterns in Toronto’s population continue to put pressure on the real estate market. The city’s appeal as a center for work, education, and cultural diversity supports a consistent demand for housing. The need for a planned approach to housing construction that emphasizes not only quantity but also quality and diversity of housing options to suit the needs of a diverse population is highlighted by this demographic pressure.

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Features

Famous Jewish Horse Jockeys Throughout History

Photo by Milena de Narvaez Ayllon:

When you think of horse racing, what comes to mind? The thunderous applause of the crowd, the heart-pounding thrill of the race, or perhaps the elegant hats and mint juleps of the Kentucky Derby?

Still, if I tell you to picture famous Jewish horse jockeys, does your mind draw a blank? Maybe there are some names among the contenders in the 2024 Kentucky Derby betting?

Well, prepare to be enlightened, entertained, and possibly a bit surprised as we dive into the fascinating world of Jewish horse jockeys throughout history.

Jewish Participation in Horse Racing

Contrary to what stereotypes might suggest – no, not all Jewish professionals are doctors, lawyers, or tech moguls – a number of Jewish athletes have made significant marks in the world of horse racing.

This might come as a shock to some, given the historical and cultural barriers that have often sidelined Jewish participation in various sports. But just like breaking into Hollywood or winning Nobel Prizes, Jewish jockeys have defied odds, gravity, and sometimes, even logic.

The Jewish influence in horse racing is actually quite big. If we look back on some of the most successful horse racing stories, we can see traces of Jewish people involved in the process. Just take American Pharoah for example. The horse that won the Triple Crown (first time since 1978) and the Breeders Cup in the same year.

The owner of American Pharoah was Ahmed Zayat; an Orthodox Jew from Egypt has become one of the most powerful figures in horse racing.

The Beginnings of Jewish Presence in Horse Racing

Let us start with the early days by going back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, when horse racing was one of the only activities with considerable popularity.

Jewish jockeys, like as Tod Sloan, began to emerge from the crowd. Sloan was more than simply a jockey; he was a celebrity, renowned for his “monkey crouch” riding style, which transformed horse racing. But why is Sloan not a household name like other sports legends?

Perhaps it is due to the specialized character of horse racing or to the overshadowing of successes in other industries. Whatever the cause, Sloan and his contemporaries paved the way for what was to follow.

Jewish Influence on the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is one of the biggest sporting events in the world that dates back 150 years.

Most visitors are astonished to learn that the Jewish community has had a substantial impact on the event’s history and culture.

From horse owners to riders to industry executives, Jews have left their imprint on horse racing.

One of the most well-known is the Wertheimer family, who owned the famous horse Exterminator, who won the race in 1918. The Wertheimers were well-known for their successful thoroughbred breeding and racing enterprise, which they had run for many years.

But we also have the Phipps family and the Zayat family, who also left a big mark on the Kentucky Derby.

Most Popular Jewish Jockeys Over the Years

But Jewish people are not only owners of horses. In fact, we can see many Jewish jockeys that actually made a rather successful horse racing career.

William Harmatz

William Harmatz (February 9, 1931–January 27, 2011) was an American Thoroughbred horse racing jockey who won the 1959 Preakness Stakes riding Royal Orbit.

Harmatz, a Jewish jockey, received the George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award in 1960 for demonstrating high standards of personal and professional behavior on and off the racecourse. He was elected into the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 1999.

Isaac Murphy

Here we have one of the most successful Jockeys, at least when it comes to win rate.

Isaac Murphy won with more than a third of his rides each year. According to his own assessment, Murphy won 44% of his races. Only 34.5% can be validated in era-specific chart books, although it’s possible that some of his races were not included. Murphy set a level that no other jockey has surpassed.

He won three Kentucky Derbys, five Latonia Derbys, and four of the first five runnings of the American Derby, which was formerly the richest 3-year-old event in America.

Murphy was recognized not just for his horseback riding abilities, but also for his honesty and commitment. He once refused to allow champion Falsetto to lose the 1879 Kenner Stakes, despite bribes from gamblers.

Walter Blum

Speaking of successful jockeys, we cannot miss Walter Blum, a Hall of Famer who had an incredible career in horse racing spanning across almost two decades. When he retired in 1975, only four jockeys actually managed to have more wins than Blum.

Despite being blind in his right eye since the age of two, when he fell from a toy horse, in 1953 he began a career as a jockey, riding his first winner on July 29 at Saratoga Race Course. Blum spent the majority of his 22-year career riding on East Coast tracks from New England to Florida, and he is one of only four riders to have won six races on a single program at Monmouth Park.

However, in the 1960s, he rode seasonally at California races, winning the 1966 Santa Anita Derby, and he also dominated Chicago’s summer racing circuit, particularly at Arlington Park.

Honorable Mentions

We’ve covered some of the most successful Jewish jockeys, but they are not the only ones in the sport. Over the year’s we’ve seen many other Jewish jockeys that might not have the same success, but definitely left a mark on the sport.

Sol Levitch competed in the Kentucky Derby six times between 1929 and 1940, placing in the top three twice. David Erb rode in the Kentucky Derby three times in the 1920s, with his best finish of third place in 1927. Herb Fisher rode in the Kentucky Derby twice during the 1940s, finishing seventh in 1941 and ninth in 1947.

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