Features
English translation of Israeli best-seller now available in Canada
By BERNIE BELLAN
A little while ago I was sent a novel titled The Slaughterman’s Daughter. What a fascinating title for a book, I thought.
The letter accompanying the book, which was sent by the Canadian publishing house for the book, explains that the author of The Slaughterman’s Daughter is Yaniv Iczkovits – a name totally unfamiliar to me, but one that is bound to become renowned outside of Israel, where Iczkovits has already apparently shot to the top of literary stardom.
Soon to be available in Canada, The Slaughterman’s Daughter has won several major awards in Israel, including the Agnon Prize and the Ramat Gan Prize for Literary Excellence. The book has only recently been translated into English and the copy that I was sent was an advance reading copy, meaning that it hadn’t totally been edited for mistakes (of which there are very, very few that I could see… an occasional missing article, such as “the”, for instance.)
That same letter also noted that Iczkovits is being compared with American writer Michael Chabon – of whom I am a great fan, and Ivan Turgenev, who was a famous Russian writer in the 19th century.
Here is a summary of the plot of The Slaughterman’s Daughter: It’s a sort of anarchic folk story…set in the Pale of Settlement in the final years of the Russian Empire. Set in a town by the name of Motal (which does exist), it tells the story of Fanny Keismann, the daughter of a “shochet” (ritual slaughterer), who embarks on a crazy adventure in what was formerly known as the Pale of Settlement.
As the introductory letter from the publisher noted, “When Fanny’s older sister’s husband disappears, Fanny leaves her own family and sets out for the great city of Minsk in search of her wayward brother-in-law, armed with her old knife (which had been given to her by her father for use in slaughtering animals on her own), and accompanied by Zizek Bershov, who is either a sly rogue or an idiot.
“Fanny’s mission to help her sister turns into a misadventure that threatens the foundations of the Russian Empire. What began as a family matter in Motal, a peripheral Jewish settlement, breaks the bounds of the shtetl, pits the Russian secret police against the Czar’s army, and upsets the political and social order they all live in.”
Got that? In so many ways it reminds me of Michael Chabon’s brilliant novel, The Yiddish Policeman’s Union, in its wildly imaginative plot. Both novels take place in towns that really do exist (Sitka, Alaska in the case of Chabon’s book), but completely alter them in ways that render them mythic.
At the same time though, Iczkovits provides such detailed descriptions of life in the final decade of the 19th century in the Pale of Settlement that even if you aren’t necessarily interested in the dizzying plot twists, you would certainly find yourself immersed in many of the aspects of what daily life was like – especially for the Jewish inhabitants of that area of the Russian Empire.
But, as Fanny embarks on her journey to find her wayward brother-in-law, Zvi Meir, she finds herself embroiled in a maddening police chase led by an intrepid head of the Russian secret police (known as the “Okhrana”) by the name of Novak.
Inspector Novak is a former colonel in the Russian Army, by the way, and two other characters who happen to be Jewish also have backgrounds of service in the Russian army. That aspect of the book allows Iczkovits to offer a fascinating glimpse into what life must have been like in that army – including how young Jewish boys were often taken from their families – never to be seen again, and forced into conscripted service in the Czar’s army where, more likely than not, they were eventually converted into Christianity.
Subplots develop as new characters are introduced, but the common link all those plots share is Fanny Keismann. Interestingly, in Iczkovits’s description of Fanny, he constantly refers to her “wolf-like” eyes which, combined with the knife which she wears on her thigh and which was given to her by her father, render her into a totally ferocious character – and a great, albeit totally unlikely heroine.
As Novak continues his incessant pursuit of Fanny and her cohorts in what becomes an absurd series of accidental crimes, he reminds me of thecharacter “Javert” in Les Miserables, who was obsessed with pursuing Jean Valjean. Novak has dedicated his life to reining in any would-be threats to the Russian Empire, and although he finds it almost impossible to believe that a Jewish woman might be at the heart of the most dangerous plan of insurrection ever to surface in Czarist Russia, he begins to construct an elaborate conspiracy theory that gradually ensnares a growing number of individuals whose reputations should be above reproach. (Sure sounds like Donald Trump would love this Novak character if he were working today.)
Something else that intrigued me about this book was how strong so many of the Jewish female characters were and how much so many of the Jewish men were total nebbishes. The women keep the households together, whether they are elderly bubbies, as in the case of Fanny’s mother-in-law, Rachel Keismann, or Fanny’s sister, Mende, who, although devastated by her husband’s having left her – and who goes through a deep depression for a while, manages to rise from her sick bed and take over management of Fanny’s household in Fanny’s absence.
This is a very long book – and, as is the casein Michael Chabon’s books, not always an easy one to read, but ultimately it proves to be a rollicking good tale. It’s always exciting to be introduced to a great new author whose talent shines through on every page.
In awarding Iczovitz the Ramat Gan Literary Prize, the judges wrote: “This is a perfect, if rare, example of a contemporary Israeli narrative that is in living dialogue with the literary and historical past, drawing on it and constructing an utterly original, independent artistic structure on its foundations … Iczkovits has created a sensual, richly vibrant Jewish world devoid of stereotypes, with flesh-and-blood characters to whom nothing human is foreign. There is no doubt. Iczkovits has pulled this off with wondrous success, yielding a virtuosic novel.”
I can hardly wait for Iczkovits’s next novel.
The Slaughterman’s Daughter is available on Amazon and, according to a spokesperson for McNally Robinson, is on order there.
Features
Kevin Leach and the Sabre Training Advisory Group: Providing training assistance to the Ukrainian military
By MARTIN ZEILIG As a private citizen, Kevin Leach is following the example of the Government of Canada by providing much needed assistance to our democratic ally, Ukraine, in its fight against the unprovoked war of aggression launched by Russia on February 24, 2022.
Mr. Leach, who grew up in Palgrave, Ontario and lived in Toronto before moving to Ukraine, is the founder of the Sabre Training Advisory Group, a not-for-profit organization geared towards providing training assistance Ukraine’s military. He is a 10-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, and served as an OSCE ceasefire observer in Ukraine from 2018 until the full-scale invasion in February 2022.
He founded the STAG in November 2022.
“Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed $4 billion in military assistance to Ukraine,” says the Government of Canada website.
“This funding will allow Canada to deliver military assistance to Ukraine through to 2029. We deeply admire the bravery and courage of Ukrainians who are fighting to defend their independence and freedom, and we will continue to work closely with our Allies and partners to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty and security Canada and Ukraine are close partners with a long-standing defence relationship.”
As well, Operation (Op) UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) military training and capacity building mission in Ukraine, “was launched in 2015 at the request of the Ukrainian government,” and in 2023, was expanded and extended until March 2026.
“Since the start of Op UNIFIER, the CAF has trained approximately 41,000 Ukrainian military and security personnel in battlefield tactics and advanced military skills,” says the online information.
“As the mission progressed, much of the direct training undertaken by CAF members transitioned to members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with Canadians acting as advisors and mentors as well as assisting in the development of courses.”
“Ukraine’s fight is a fight for international law, for the United Nations Charter, and for innocent civilians, including children, who deserve to live in peace,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says on his website.
Besides military aid and training, Canada has also provided significant economic support, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, and has welcomed tens of thousands Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war into our country.
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Mr. Leach, who is a frequent guest on the Mriya Report, a 24/7 site on X that provides in-depth information on the war, agreed to an email interview with this reporter.
Q: What was your motivation in forming STAG?
KL: Sabre is a professional military training non-profit. Our aim is to give Ukrainian defenders the skills to come home alive. We are building the capacity for Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Sabre Training Advisory Group grew out of the frustrations its founding members had with the chaotic and unprofessional way that many foreign instructors were attempting to train Ukrainian soldiers in the NATO and Allied style of warfare.
Q: Who else works with you in the STAG?
KL: We have a team of volunteers from all over the world. They are former soldiers from Canada, the US, UK, and even Australia, plus our local Ukrainian volunteers. Our executive staff, besides myself, are two former officers from the British Army and US Marine Corps, respectively.
Q: Do you work closely with the Government of Ukraine or Ukraine’s military and/or the Canadian Armed Forces?
KL: We don’t work closely at this time with any civilian government, but we have an official partnership with the 4th Rapid Reaction Brigade “Rubizh”. As we’re still a relatively small organization, we don’t warrant much attention from governments.
Q: What else that you would like the public to know about your work?
KL: Training inside of Ukraine is vital. It is far more efficient than moving large numbers of Ukrainian troops around Europe, and being here puts us closer to the action, and allows us to adjust faster to lessons learned on the battlefield. We also need support! It is hard to fund a program like ours, as it’s quite unique. Typically the role we are filling would be performed by private military contractors, which are illegal in Ukraine and carry severe political risk due to public perception of these companies.
We set out to establish a high standard, using proper training techniques and taking a systematic approach to instruction. In just a few short months we were able to secure a high-quality training area, and a team of excellent instructors who draw on decades of collected military experience. We have successfully trained over 3000 Ukrainian warriors and medics, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge to excel on the battlefield. Our track record of tangible results demonstrates our commitment to the mission and the decisive impact on Ukrainian defenders.
For further information, visit the STAG website: www.sabretag.org
Features
Exploring 8 Innovative New Services in In-Home Care
In-home care has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, changing demographics, and an increased focus on personalized care. These innovative services are transforming the way support is delivered, enhancing the quality of life for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Here are some of the most exciting and groundbreaking innovations that families can depend on when it comes to their space and the best practices to ensure comfort and safety.
Telehealth and Telemedicine
Telehealth and telemedicine have revolutionized health care by providing remote access to services. Through video consultations, seniors and caregivers can communicate with doctors, nurses, and specialists without leaving their homes. This reduces the need for frequent visits to health facilities, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Telehealth also enables continuous monitoring of chronic conditions, allowing providers to adjust treatments promptly and prevent complications.
Remote Monitoring and Wearable Devices
Wearable devices and remote monitoring systems are becoming essential tools. These devices can track vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, providing real-time data to caregivers and health professionals. Advanced systems can detect falls, monitor medication adherence, and even predict health issues before they become severe. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions, improving outcomes and enhancing the safety of in-home recipients.
Virtual Companionship and Social Engagement
Loneliness and social isolation are significant concerns for seniors living at home. Virtual companionship services, such as those provided by robots or virtual assistants, offer interaction and engagement to mitigate these issues. These technologies can remind individuals to take their medications, guide them through exercises, and provide cognitive stimulation through games and conversations. Additionally, platforms that facilitate virtual social gatherings and activities help seniors stay connected with family and friends, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Personalized Care Plans and Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a crucial role in developing personalized plans. AI algorithms can analyze data from various sources, including health records, lifestyle habits, and genetic information, to create customized strategies. These plans are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each individual, ensuring they receive the most appropriate and effective solutions. AI can also assist caregivers by predicting potential health issues and suggesting preventive measures, thereby enhancing the overall quality of support.
Smart Home Technology
Smart technology is making it easier for seniors to live independently. Voice-activated assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home can control lights, thermostats, and appliances, reducing the physical effort required for daily tasks. Smart systems can also include sensors that detect movement, alerting caregivers if there is unusual activity or inactivity. This technology not only improves safety but also provides peace of mind for both the recipients and their families.
On-Demand and Flexible Care Services
The gig economy has introduced on-demand services to the in-home care industry. Platforms like Honor and CareLinx allow families to find and hire support quickly, providing flexibility and convenience. These services offer a wide range of options, from a few hours of assistance to round-the-clock support, accommodating the varying needs of individuals. The ability to schedule help on short notice ensures that support is available when it’s needed most. This includes teams like the one at Parners for Home Care; more on their services and support options can be found on their website: https://partnersforhomecare.ca/
Integrative Health and Wellness Programs
Holistic approaches to health and wellness are gaining traction – and for good reason. Integrative health programs combine traditional medical care with complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, nutrition counseling, and physical therapy. These programs focus on the overall well-being of the individual, addressing physical, mental, and emotional health. As a result of promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle, integrative health services can enhance the quality of life and prevent the onset of chronic conditions.
Enhanced Training and Support for Caregivers
Innovative training programs for caregivers are crucial in improving the quality of in-home care. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies provide immersive training experiences, allowing support workers to practice and develop their skills in realistic scenarios. Additionally, online platforms offer ongoing education and support, helping individuals stay updated on best practices and new developments in the field. Enhanced training ensures that everyone is well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their clients.
The Future of In-Home Care Services
The way we grow and age in comfort is rapidly changing, thanks to these innovative services and technologies. Telehealth, remote monitoring, virtual companionship, AI-driven plans, smart technology, on-demand services, integrative health programs, and enhanced training are all contributing to more personalized, efficient, and effective support. As these innovations continue to evolve, they hold the promise of significantly improving the lives of those who rely on in-home care, allowing them to age gracefully and independently in the comfort of their own spaces.
Features
New online casinos to try in Canada
Canada is jumping aboard the online gambling train and following the same path as many other countries and territories throughout the world that are all rushing to check what this new gambling golden age is all about. Gambling in Canada varies from state to state, and before we get started today, we must advise you that you need to check out the laws and legislation in your local area before you look to play a casino game online.
Favorable changes in legislation
Gambling in Canada is legal at central government level, but it is left to the individual provinces to write up the local legislation that applies to their residents. Ontario was the most recent province to legalize sports betting and online casino gaming. Although April 2022 wasn’t too long ago, gambling platforms operating within the province are firing on all cylinders.
You don’t have to be the sharpest tool in the box to observe how significant it was for Ontario to legalize online casino gaming for all residents over the age of 19. Ontario is the most populated province and is home to two of the most prominent cities in the country, thus opening up the potential for a multibillion-dollar tax base for provincial legislators.
There has been an enormous wave of platforms looking to get in on the action, but a handful of new online casinos, which can be found on PlayCasinos.ca, are proving to be slightly ahead of the rest, at least in our opinion. Let’s take a look at some of these platforms, what they have to offer, and the sort of components you should look for when deciding which casino to play at.
BetBeast
First up today, we have BetBeast, and it ticks many of the boxes that are often indicators of a quality casino:
- Customer service that is easy to contact and available 24/7 – an integral feature for any digital casino.
- A great VIP program.
- Impressive bonuses for existing customers.
- Over 7,000 games to choose from.
There are some areas where BetBeast could improve, such as increasing the withdrawal amount for high rollers, and given it’s such a new provider, it’ll be harder for it to muscle in on the more established names, but it does all of the things you’d expect from a casino that has aspirations of getting in among the big names in Canadian casino gaming.
Gamblezen
While Gamblezen does all of the basics well, including great game selection, easy-to-contact customer service and a quick signup process, what grabbed our attention most about the Curaçao-based gambling platform was what other people are saying about it online.
Despite being in the space for less than 12 months, there’s a wave of people waxing lyrical about its service, both on social media and via independent reviews. We checked out what it has to offer, and find that it’s impressive for the short time it has been active in the Canadian online casino industry.
Casino Adrenaline
Opting for a high-octane name, Casino Adrenaline has clearly used the opportunity to name its platform as a marketing strategy, which is not a bad idea. However, it isn’t just about the face value of the intriguing name – Casino Adrenaline has a new customer, no-deposit offer of 100 free spins, which first caught our attention. Another interesting approach is its range of payment methods.
In our experience, new casinos will usually opt for the main two or three payment methods before branching out into others. However, Casino Adrenaline has been around since 2014, so its venture into the Canadian market isn’t its first rodeo. Online gambling in Canada captured national and local news and attention in 2022, while Casino Adrenaline has been offering digital betting services since 2014, and it’s clear from their website that they know what they are doing.
Belabet
Belabet has over 2,000 games to choose from, and if you’re a slot gamer, this might be the one you should put at the top of your list to check out. It’s the newest name on our list today, launching in April 2024, but is clearly eager to get going in the casino gaming market and has one of the broadest selections of slot games we’ve seen.
Of course, as you’d expect with a brand-new casino, there are still elements of the site that could do with a few adjustments, but there’s nothing major, and it’s showing a lot of promise as a site for Canadian slot fans.
MoonWin Casino
MoonWin has 3,000 games available, fewer than some of the other names we have touched on today. However, this isn’t a deciding factor in a casino’s overall quality. There are plenty of examples where quality is more important than quantity, and MoonWin definitely makes a strong case for this argument with the quality of their platform.
In addition, you can find plenty of crash games and niche casino games to check out, so you aren’t confined to traditional games if you’re looking for something a little different.
Summary
We’ve only scratched the surface with our selection today, and given that Canadian casino gaming is one of the fastest-growing domestic gambling markets in the world, expect the competition to continue growing – most importantly, to the benefit of the customers, continuing to drive innovation and increase choice.