I wanted to let you know how proud I feel to come from such a committed, well-organized and strongly Zionist Jewish community in Toronto. Having previously spent Yom Haatzmaut in either Toronto or Israel, I was hopeful that something as exciting and important as the community-sponsored Israel@60 programme at Ricoh Coliseum would be happening in Boston but to my disappointment, no such event was taking place here. Nor was I able to find an event similar to the Mizrachi-sponsored tekes and celebration that I've been privileged to attend in the past. The point of this email isn't to curse the community here or express my frustration but rather to express my pride as a member of the Toronto Jewish community. Living outside of Toronto this past year has made me appreciate, more than ever, where I've come from. I've been truly blessed to grow up in and identify with a community that has imbued strong values in me including putting Israel support through both rallies and celebratory programming as a #1. I am grateful that this is so high on the community's agenda!

I heard from my parents and a number of my friends who attended the event last night that it was very special. So, Yasher Koach to  the UJA and all the organizers.

Sincerely,
Shira Zeliger

The Yom Haatzmaut party on Thursday 8 May was fabulous.
Please send our sincere thanks and compliments to Sara and Fred and their committee.

Norman and Susan Mogil