Local News
Gray Academy shows increase in enrollment for second straight year
By BERNIE BELLAN For years now we’ve been tracking enrollment figures at both Gray Academy and the Brock Corydon Hebrew Bilingual program.
Enrollment at Gray Academy has shown a slight increase this school year – up from 468 last year to 474 this year (K-12). Enrollment in the Hebrew bilingual program at Brock Corydon has also held steady: 192 this year, compared with 193 last year.
And, while enrollment at both schools has remained relatively even in the past few years at both schools, it is interesting to note that, over the past 11 years there were two fairly significant drops in enrollment at Gray Academy: in 2014 and 2017.
In 2014 there was a drop of 90 students at Gray Academy. In our October 1, 2014 issue Myron Love referred to an explanation given by then Head of School Rory Paul for the quite large drop in enrollment that year. Here is what Myron wrote: “This year’s enrolment stands at just over 500, compared to just over 600 two years ago and 590 to start the year last fall. The decline actually began over the course of the year last year and continued throughout the summer, Paul reports. The school lost 20 students between September and June alone.
“ ‘Part of the decline in student numbers,’ Paul reports,’ is due to families leaving the city. That accounts for about 50 students.’ He notes that the families – both Winnipeg- born and recent immigrants – left for better jobs elsewhere. ‘In most cases, he observes, ‘the parents were middle management and moved because they were promoted to senior management positions.’ “
Compare that explanation with one given by current Head of School Lori Binder in 2021, when there was another fairly significant drop in enrollment that year – from 481 in 2020 to 458 in 2021. Readers may recall that only three short years ago we were in the midst of the Covid epidemic and Gray Academy had become the first school in the province to require all students age 12 and up to be fully vaccinated in order to attend school. Twenty out of the 485 students who had been registered to attend Gray Academy were subsequently pulled by their parents from the school.
But, added to that, I also had this in my report about enrollment at Gray Academy in the fall of 2021: “Perhaps of greater concern to the Jewish community might be the fact that the families of 20 different students have left Winnipeg since the end of the school year last June.”
Again, this year, in an email to us, Lori noted that another 20 students left the school this year when their families left the city.
Thus, if there should be one constant concern for our Jewish community – based on what happened both those years at Gray Academy, it should be losing families to other cities.
We can now report, however, that the trend of losing families seems to have reversed itself since 2021. Enrollment at Gray Academy has not only held steady, it has increased both the past two years –to 468 last year and to 474 this years.
In analyzing enrollment at Gray Academy this current school year, Lori Binder offered the following pieces of information:
2023-2024 Total Number of Students JK to Grade 12: 474 (compared to 468 same time last year)
The total number of new students is 78 (compared to 66 at the same time last year).
Retention of students in 2023-2024 from eligible* students returning from 2022-2023: 98%
*When we count eligible students we remove graduates (44 graduates) and students who moved with their families out of the city (20 students moved outside of Winnipeg in the summer of 2023)
New Students This Year Include:
- 38 New Students in Early Years (JK & K)
- 12 New Students that Just Arrived in Canada
- 4 from Other Cities in Canada
- 2 International Students (Brazil and Australia)
- 17 from Public Schools
- 5 from other Independent Schools
The new students above can also be viewed as follows:
38 new to Early Years (JK & K)
16 new to Elementary (Gr. 1-6)
24 new to Grades 7 – 12 (high school)
- Graduating class size is 41 for the Class of ‘24
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.
