Features
Looking back at the life of the late Rabbi Peretz Weitzman
This story originally appeared in our paper in 2010: Lodz-born rabbi celebrating 90th birthday
By PAUL LUNGEN TORONTO – When Rabbi Peretz Weizman used to go on his customary walks down Main Street in Winnipeg,
he often sang an unusual song that puzzled the shopkeepers he had come to know.“What is that tune and why are you always singing it?,” they asked him.
Weizman kept mum about it but in an interview with The CJN last week, he explained the origins of that unusual melody that had puzzled his friends in the prairie city.
It was an old tune sung by a cantor that he had heard as a youth in his native city, Lodz. As a boy, he loved to attend Kabalat Shabbat services at the city’s famous Altshtot, Old City Shul. Although his family attended a simple shtibl, he used to sneak out on Friday night to the ornate and beautiful synagogue, where he was awed by the splendour of the building, the solemnity of the service and the stature of the cantor.
He remembered the cantor’s song welcoming the Sabbath and kept it alive. “That was the song I sang on Main Street,” he said. “I never walked alone. I saved something from the Old City Shul. I rescued the melody. This Hitler could not destroy.”
Rabbi Weizman, who has moved to Toronto to be closer to his family, will celebrate his 90th birthday on Nov. 23. A man of the old school, he recalls vividly the life he led in Lodz before the Nazi invasion of September 1939, as well as the subsequent destruction.
The memory of his beloved synagogue going up in flames in November 1939 is burned into his consciousness. It was so beautiful, “I didn’t believe the Temple was nicer than this shul,” he said.
“When I saw the synagogue going up in flames, the entire sky was covered in sparks – a remnant. When I say that, I feel that I was one of the sparks.”
Like other survivors of the Holocaust, Rabbi Weizman represents one of the ever-declining number of Yiddish-speaking European Jews. Surprisingly, he eschews use of the word “survivor” when describing himself, even though he alone from his parents, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins – more than 60 people in all – escaped the Nazis.
“I am not a survivor,” he said. “Let me explain. I was a nephew, I was a son, a brother. All these titles gone. Only the naked Peretz survived. All the titles are gone. Only a fraction survived, the naked “I” survived… I felt naked, unprotected.”
Rabbi Weizman had three brothers and two sisters. His father, Shmuel, was a successful businessman who manufactured and sold chemicals and some pharmaceuticals. At age three, Rabbi Weizman began to attend cheder at the Yeshiva Yesodai HaTorah, where he learned traditional Jewish subjects along with secular material, which was compulsory. The school days were long, beginning at 8 a.m. and going until 8:30 p.m., with a break for dinner.
At age 15, his family arranged for a private tutor. “In Poland, in my circle, you didn’t study to become a rabbi. If you wanted to be a Jew and respected in the community, you had to be a scholar.”
He didn’t decide to become a rabbi until after the creation of the Lodz ghetto by the Nazis.
“I felt I should contribute to the Jews, that Judaism will need me, if I survive,” he said.
Remembering the cantor’s rendition of Kabalat Shabbat was part of that and later, when he met the cantor in the ghetto, Rabbi Weizman recalled that the man, who had seemed so tall and grand in the synagogue, was “shrunken” and beaten down.
“I sang for the chazzan, Kabalat Shabbat, and tears welled in his eyes and he said, ‘preserve it.’”
Preserve the song, he did, though all around him was starvation, misery, death and destruction. He managed to survive the war as a labourer in a laundry. “We laundered the garments of the Jews who were gassed and sent it back, cleaned, to Germany. We didn’t know they were gassed then, but we noticed five shirts, one over the other, and found diamonds in brassieres, and dollars.”
Rabbi Weizman was liberated by Soviet forces and met his future wife, Riva, after the war. After a few years in Europe, they moved to Israel where she had family, but Rabbi Weizman couldn’t cope with the hot Mediterranean climate. When he learned of an opening at a synagogue in Winnipeg, they left for Canada, arriving in 1953.
In 1960, he became rabbi at the newly formed Bnay Abraham Congregation, and he served there for almost 40 years.
“I love Winnipeg,” he said. “I feel very comfortable there. It has a very nice, comfortable element there. It’s heimishe, a cold climate, but warm people.”
In 1999, he spent a year in Toronto as a replacement rabbi at the Beth Emeth BaisYehuda Synagogue after he received a good response when he delivered a dvar Torah.
He enjoyed the experience at the shul. “We had a common language, and a common expectation and a common past. They could appreciate a newcomer. They appreciated my sense of humour. It’s a Jewishly-intelligent congregation… They like European sechoireh [merchandise].”
Last year, the Winnipeg Jewish community honoured Rabbi Weizman with a tribute dinner and the establishment of the Rabbi Peretz Weizman Holocaust Education Trust fund, housed at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba. More than $40,000 was raised to support the establishment and maintenance of a Holocaust education display showcase as a lasting legacy.
Today, Rabbi Weizman is a Torontonian. His wife is a resident at Baycrest, and his nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren live here.
He still studies every day or two at a local yeshiva where the young people “look at me like someone from a different age.”
“I’m a true believer that God has blessed me with a long life. I believe my brothers and sisters and parents gave me their years. I lived their lives, and I must confess that the less future I have, the more the past is taking a hold of me. As the past is taking a hold of me, it robs me of my present. I have such a desire to be with them, to see them. I have this longing. I miss them more than I missed them 50 years ago. They say time cures: no.”
As this reporter takes leave of Rabbi Weizman – I confess that I’ve known him a long time; he “bar-mitzvahed” me years ago – there’s always one more story, one more parable for him to tell, one more mishnaic interpretation to impart.
Like the old shul burning, Rabbi Weizman continues to give off sparks, hoping that a new generation will preserve and pass along the wisdom and flavour of the nearly destroyed Old World.
Features
From One Border to Another
By ORLY DREMAN A year ago at Chanuka/Christmas I wrote an article titled “From Darkness to Light” (from-darkness-to-light-december). I cannot believe a year has passed, yet the descriptions of what’s happening in Israel are the same: national trauma, nightmares, physical pain, people still depressed and worried, hostages being murdered in captivity. The state of the nation can be pictured as a broken heart – immersed in collective sadness. The whole country is one big monument. I have a huge Israeli flag by my front door because every few days there is a a funeral journey where everyone stands at the side of the road with flags to escort another fallen soldier on his last way to the cemetery. Girlfriends do not meet at coffeeshops. Instead we meet at these funeral journeys.
On the other hand, citizens continue to volunteer by sending food packages to soldiers and helping the tens of thousands of families whose loved ones are in the front and more.
Since a couple of weeks ago was the one year anniversary of the return of some of the hostages in the only deal to date, there are still one hundred hostages – women, men, and children – including the elderly, all still being held in Gaza. The films that Hamas releases to put pressure on citizens so that they, in turn, will put pressure on the government, show the hostages looking emaciated and pale, with black under their eyes -skinny, starved, depressed, crying and begging to be saved. They are alone in the dark, dozens of meters underground, sitting in metal cages in dark tunnels closed from both sides by metal gates, less than the height of a human and the width of a single mattress. They are not allowed to shower so they have skin diseases- inhuman conditions which they are still experiencing and which are crimes against humanity. The hostages who will return in the future will not be the same as those who were released after 55 days. For our selfish government the hostages are just a burden reminding them of their big failure on Oct. 7th 2023. If they do not sign an agreement to bring them home now, then we can all understand that, God forbid, if a massacre like the one that happened on October 7 were to happed again – on any of our borders (being surrounded by Muslim enemies), there is nobody to save us. It is hard to grasp this reality. The rehabilitation of our society cannot happen before all the hostages are returned. Seasons are passing, holidays are happening, and the winter has begun again. The families of the hostages are traveling around the world meeting kings and presidents and begging for help, but our government is hard-hearted. Bibi wants to “win” the war, keep fighting in Gaza, and forget about our hostages.
Most of the children in Israel are suffering from anxiety attacks, avoid leaving home, do not interact socially, are nervous, and do not eat or sleep well. They hear sirens, their parents are recruited to the army, they have been evacuated from their homes and moved several times – having to change schools and friends. The events of Oct 7: the murders, the kidnappings, the brutality, the length of the war, the number of soldiers and citizens killed, the wounded- all of these influence the children dramatically. At our home we were playing a game with our grandchildren. They would come up with a letter and the adults had to guess what word the child was thinking of. A granddaughter gave the letter H. After us giving up and not being able to guess the word, she said it was “Hamas.” It appears that is what children are preoccupied with. When we invite new friends, before they decide to come, they always ask if we have a shelter. (Thank God we do). Our granddaughter, 9 years old, was asked why they study Arabic at school. She replied: ”So we can understand what the terrorists are saying.” Children are afraid to walk in the house alone, they are in constant fear and return to sleeping with their parents. It is a state of chronic stress. We are a post traumatic generation. People are much less happy than in the past. Since we have several memorial days during the year when the siren is sounded and we observe a minute of silence, like on Holocaust day, Memorial day for all the soldiers killed in the wars trying to save the country, and Oct. 7th day- children don’t know whether to run to the shelter when the siren sounds or to stand still.
There is a ceasefire right now with Lebanon in the north, but the chances of it holding are 50-50. We just signed that cease fire and another front from Syria opened, because the president’s regime there was overthrown by Al Qaeda/ISIS rebels. We do not know what to expect. After a year and a quarter, we stopped hearing war planes, but now, because of Syria, we hear them again.
We are lacking 10,000 soldiers. Men in their forties who were already released from the army are getting called again. The wives of 15,000 reservists have been carrying the burden of their prolonged absences for 15 months already. They are losing income and paying a heavy price for parenting alone and not enjoying the company of a spouse. Many have become widowed. Business closing signs are all over the place. We owe them so much.
Sixty thousand citizens were evacuated from their homes in northern Israel 15 months ago. They are dispersed in 100 hotels around the country. Whole communities were dismantled and their members became refugees. People lost all their stable, familiar circles. Thousands of homes and roads were destroyed and must be rebuilt. Tourism is dead in the whole country. The government of Lebanon is a hostage in the hands of Hezbollah, which took over that country. The U.N soldiers are afraid to do anything against Hezbollah’s wishes or they will be killed. Hence they have became collaborators with the terrorists.
At the central square in Teheran, Iran there is a clock counting time backwards for the time remaining until the year 2040, the year Iran says it intends to annihilate Israel. We cannot wait passively for that year so, hopefully, with a new administration in Washington we will have the opportunity to remove the tyrant regime in Iran.
It has become “cool” to be antisemitic and anti-Israel around the world. The “herd” is following Muslim propaganda and lies and does not know the truth. Our government’s public relations campaign has failed. We have to get to those who don’t know enough.
Chanukka is approaching and our lights are the volunteers in the hospitals, in the field, nursing homes… those visiting the elderly, the lonely, the families who need help. This is what gives us comfort: the spirit of solidarity. This is what makes us a great nation – our people. The real Israeli who shares his brother’s pain. So we must be grateful for the good things in life and maintain hope.
Happy Chanukka and Merry Christmas!
Features
The Allure of Cherry Scents in Modern Fragrance Trends
Cherry-scented perfumes have become the new darling of the fragrance world. Thanks to their fruity notes and unique ability to bring out sophistication and warmth, cherry perfumes are an emerging trend in the modern world of scents.
One of the most famous perfumes of the generation is the Tom Ford Lost Cherry and the well-loved fragrance is simply unbeatable. They’re so developed, deep, and warm. For customers looking for a more affordable option, perfumes like Ambery Cherry have found a nice middle between luxury and attainability.
Why Cherry Scents Are Having a Moment
Cherry fragrances offer sophistication, freshness, and complexity. These perfumes strike a perfect balance between sweetness and adulthood, making them suitable for any occasion and mood. Cherries are a symbol of indulgence, delectability, and nostalgia. There are several fragrance users who want more than just a nice and simple scent; they’re looking for a story too.
For this reason, a lot of perfumers have gotten extra inventive with their cherry notes, including other notes that establish a unique story. Almond notes, tonka bean, smoky undertones – anything that can place wearers directly on a unique pedestal in an olfactory universe. With this newfound creativity, cherry-scented perfumes have become a genre of their own in the world of luxury perfumes.
Cherry Fragrances and the Senses
Just imagine the moment when someone with cherry fragrance sprays it on their skin. The first notes that blossom through are of tangy, sweet cherry juice. You are then transported to an orchard bathed in sunlight. That is the kind of sensory experience you get with a cherry fragrance.
They’re the right mix of elegant and playful and warm and bold. Again, the likes of Tom Ford Lost Cherry have raised the bar when it comes to making a perfect fragrance. This has, in turn, resulted in the likes of Ambery Cherry becoming easily available to the masses.
Cherry Scents as Personal Statements
Fragrances are not just some additional accessory but an extension to your personality. Cherry fragrances, with their warmth and alluring nature, allow the wearer to make some pretty unforgettable, striking statements everywhere they go. The kind of people who stop and give them a try are people who enjoy timeless elegance while remaining modern and fresh! There is something about cherry fragrances that intrigues you. You just can’t pinpoint what it is but they smell divine.
Finding the Perfect Cherry Fragrance
Given that cherry fragrances are so hot right now, you might find yourself doing a double take as you try to navigate your next move. The best way to decide is to choose one that aligns with your personal style. If your tastes run to the daring and complex, Tom Ford Lost Cherry might tickle your fancy.
If you are after a comparable experience at a more appropriate price tag, there are options like Ambery Cherry as alternatives. They make cherry perfumes accessible to everyone, no matter how deep their pockets are. This will only mean that more of us will experience and fall in love with this note.
Embrace the Cherry Trend
Cherry perfumes are for everyone but many already know this, especially now that there are affordable alternatives. For those who are regular shoppers at luxury perfume counters, don’t let this amazing scent escape your growing collection. Welcome to the beautiful world of cherry perfumes. Now that there are pocket-friendly yet luxurious editions, what is stopping you from considering them?
Features
Exploring the Technology Behind CrazyVegas’s Seamless Gameplay
With the fastest load speeds, the smoothest play, the most reliable form of security and so many more exciting extras, going with this CrazyVegas online casino really is like magic. But what’s behind all these, you ask? What are the crazy ins and outs of the system that continually delivers the fun and excitement to you, the player?
Advanced Servers for Lightning-Fast Performance
Nothing ruins an awesome gaming experience quite like lag — or bugs. Overheated servers, not enough server-pressure points, and even the choice of a hard drive over a solid-state drive because if the host is lagging, you’re lagging. And at CrazyVegas, we don’t do “lagging,” or its little brother, downtime.
Because as cool as all of the above is and more, we are focused on keeping the good times rolling with as little interruption on your desktop, tablet, or mobile and hassle-free infrastructure.
Cutting-edge Graphics Powered by HTML5
The design makes or breaks the online casino. Some even say it’s as important as games. With HTML5 used in CrazyVegas, there’s nothing to worry about. The game design and graphics look and act just about the part. All modes can be played on any size screen without a clumsy or confusing transition.
From playing that latest slot to getting into that poker final and anything in between. There’s a clear view of all the visuals and there are no visual bugs that make it painful on the eyes. All thanks to magical HTML5.
AI and Machine Learning for Personalized Experiences
Beneath the system, the AI and machine learning algorithms are creating a uniquely designed gaming world for each player. CrazyVegas uses AI to analyze players’ input and then provide real-time gameplay and promotional offers depending on this player’s preferences.
If the AI detects this player has a preference for games that require more strategy (e.g. BlackJack) then this could result in higher table games or even more game tips to help you play and win. This has made the system create an experience built for the people who play it. But decentralized at the same time.
Secure Transactions with Blockchain Integration
Security is paramount in any online casino, and CrazyVegas doesn’t disappoint. By utilizing blockchain technology, this online casino can provide an unprecedented level of security (and transparency) online — beyond anything else in the industry. With blockchain, user funds are safe and games are fairer.
Any transaction (e.g., deposit, withdrawal) is encrypted and transmitted securely, channeled onto a decentralized contract ledger that ensures your money plus data are safe from any kind of hack.
Mobile Optimization
With the days we live in now, online gaming is a form of relaxation and this casino is just as good as its competition. It is mobile-friendly, meaning a customer can play whenever, wherever!
Thanks to the design and discomfort of cookies, this online casino is for any player. It doesn’t matter if you are at home or just about anywhere, you can definitely play your favorite games on your mobile.
Fair Play with RNG Technology
One of the most important aspects of online gaming is fairness. CrazyVegas has this well covered and uses Random Number Generator (RNG) technology throughout its games to ensure that all game outcomes are entirely random.
Third-party independent testing ensures this remains the case, and our users can be certain they are all in with a fair and equal chance. And with us, the gameplay really is a play that can be trusted!
The Future of Gaming at CrazyVegas
As technologies evolve, we evolve too. CrazyVegas always follows the edge of the possible and even more, providing all the incredible tech pieces to give you more depth and more awesomeness in your gambling. Imagine walking into your VR casino, chatting with other players and a dealer in real time, or using AR to make your gambling appear right on your dinner table! All the tech pieces are endless, and we will take it all to provide the best new experiences to our players.
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