June 12, 2020 | 20 Sivan 5780

The dust is settling on Cowboys and Cocktails – a virtual fundraiser honouring the memory of Sam Ousher Switzer z”l. Kol Hakavod to JFSC for not only keeping everyone healthy and safe during their online event, but also exceeding their fundraising goal! As a glass of 'Sam Spritzer Quarantini' was raised in Sam's honour, JFSC realized their goal to ensure that they continue helping vulnerable community members. If you would like to make a donation in Sam's honour, please click here.

There is something so soothing about Bob Ross' voice! On Friday, June 19 Hillel members are invited to Zoom at 7:00pm with Chen and Rachel for a Bob Ross Paint Nite. Need supplies? Contact Danielle to receive a paint kit. To learn more about upcoming events, visit Hillel online or on Facebook.

Rabbi Halpern facilitated a very special Virtual Kesher on June 5 via Zoom. He did a "show and tell" with the Kesher members on how to write a Torah and Mezuzah as a Sofer, and answered many questions. We are all very grateful for his volunteering. Despite this challenging time, Kesher continue to plan many wonderful programs for our members, including an upcoming Father's Day event with Rabbi Leonard Cohen. For information about Federation and our Inclusion programming, contact Karina Szulc.

On May 31, PJ Our Way® (PJOW) families participated in a hands-on and meaningful art class with renowned Israeli artist, Hanoch Piven. Participants across Canada and the US created a collage reflecting themselves and/or their families and then shared what they created. It was beautiful to see how creative and thoughtful the children and their parents were. One child used tea bags for eyes because drinking tea makes her feel calm. Another created a mask because we are all "seeing through a mask" these days. To quote Hanoch, "When we create, we feel powerful". For more information about PJOW, for children ages 8½ to 12 years old, contact Kathie Wainer or visit the PJOW website.