Shir Libeynu

A (Chanukah) Night to Remember

January 4th, 2012 Posted in What's New

The evening began with kids’ activities run by madrichot (counsellors) from Camp Gesher. Two dozen children, ranging in age from toddlers to pre-teens, made Chanukah-themed fridge magnets, decorated cookies and heard Chanukah tales.

Our dairy buffet featured heaps of crispy latkes from Free Times Cafe. People caught up with old friends and made new ones while debating the virtues of apple sauce (homemade!) over sour cream as a latke topping.

Words of welcome and thanks were delivered by Justine Apple, executive director of Kulanu Toronto (and now a new Shir Libeynu board member) and Eden Nameri, president of Congregation Shir Libeynu. Eden then told Isaac Bashevis Singer’s story “The First Shlemiel,” which, like all tales set in the legendary village of Chelm, provoked much laughter.

The highlight of the evening was a performance by The Jewstice League and friends: band members Elise Eisenkraft Klein and Jesse Guttman, with Mitch Willer on piano and Nico Contreras on accordion. This cutting-edge folk group brought Yiddish culture to life for us. Their fresh take on a half-dozen Klezmer tunes inspired singing, clapping and much dancing between the tables. Such enthusiasm merited a longer set but as it was, Jesse missed the beginning of his own Chanukah party to come play for us, so they left us wanting more. We look forward to having them back soon.

The children gathered around the many chanukiot people brought from home,* and, led by Terry Maiden, said the blessings and lit the candles. We sang Chanukah songs, accompanied by Elise on her violin.

Our dessert table included hundreds of Amy Herskowitz’s famous homemade rugelach (a traditional Chanukah treat) and trays of Jason Gold’s crack — wickedly good chocolate and caramel brittle decorated with thematic blue and white sprinkles. Our younger attendees (and a few older ones too) received dreidels and Chanukah gelt as they left for home.

Thank you to everyone who helped make our third night of Chanukah such a warm and festive evening.

*If you left behind an iron, harp-shaped chanukiah, please let us know. It is safe and sound and waiting to be reclaimed by its owner.