Kolel opens new home. Kolel celebrated its grand opening on April 9 by inviting the entire Jewish community to its new home at 151 Eglinton Ave. W. Words (and even pictures- see below) cannot capture the enthusiasm, excitement and energy of the overflow crowds that crammed every classroom to drink in the words of Torah taught by Rabbis from across the denominational spectrum. Everyone was welcome, and over 300 people participated in a wonderful joyous day which ended with Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut hanging the beautiful mezzuzah and Dianne Saxe bringing in Kolel's Sefer Torah. Thanks to all the volunteers and staff and faculty who made the day possible and so wonderful. From Tony Cohen, chair of the day's events: "...we are thrilled to be the honorary co-chairs of Kolel's exciting opening weekend. We came to know Kolel when, like so many Jews today, we had a desire to learn & find our 'place'; in the Toronto Jewish Community. We hooked up with Kolel about 14 months ago and we are so excited to be helping celebrate this grand opening. We think by our very presence here tonight it shows Kolel's comittment to the future, nurturing the next generation of Jews and the role they will play in the years to come.' ...Kolel is 'MAQOM', quite literally 'a place', a place to be Jewish, a place to learn, a place to belong. Kolel welcomes all streams of Judaism and bonds its students by the fact that they are all Jewish; all Jews despite the different meanings this may have for each individual. Here students can learn together and interact with the help of countless unique programs and activities, all under the supervision & guidance of some of Toronto's top Jewish educators. ... I strongly believe that due to Kolel's diversity, both denominationally and through its teaching practices, has the ability to repair the world;or at least start with TORONTO. That ability has been increased imeasurably by the new location & incredible building, all made possible by your support & belief in Kolel."
	Tony and Moira Cohen, the chairs of the day, welcome everyone. Helen Zukerman affixes the mezzuzah on the Beit Midrash: Student lounge and classroom floor, with Rabbi Goldstein and Rabbi Loevinger looking on. Paul Shnier, Rose Wolfe and Liz Wolfe in front of their gift of classroom 1. Shirley and Gavin Herman 'affix' a child mezzuzah to the childcare room in memory of Hilde Herman. Rabbi Gunther Plaut leads the crowd in the reciting of the blessing 'likbo'a mezzuzah.' Anna & Leslie Dan affix the mezzuzah on the Beit Knesset/ Auditorium floor. Dianne & Stewart Saxe with Kolel's new Torah in front of the Ark. The Torah mantle (also designed by Dianne) fits this Torah perfectly even though it was made several years ago (for a different sized Torah!) Rabbi Goldstein shares a joke with a responsive crowd of Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist, and under-constructionist Jews! What a day!
		last update: April 2000

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