Combine a tale (almost) as old as time with dedicated Canadian volunteers and (mostly) locally sourced snacks, and you have Forestdale Heights Lodge’s popular Purim program.

On Thursday, March 13, FHL & Friends gathered at the B’nai Brith Seniors’ Residence at 4300 Bathurst Street to host the annual Purim Megillah reading led by Rabbi Jay Kelman and his family.

Although this may be the Lodge’s last CVS program, the enthusiasm displayed by those present was remarkable. Attendees included Debbi Silver, Ruth Pupko, Carl & Debbie Zeliger, and Jeff & Lisa Rosen. Assisting Lodge members were Paul Arrobs and Elaine Lake.

Even though our group was small, everyone worked together to set up the room and prepare the snacks before sitting back and listening to the Kelmans as they expertly recited the Megillah, a tradition they have upheld for many years. The approximately 35 residents participating in the program appeared to be enjoying themselves during the Megillah reading, especially when they got the chance to shake their gragers.

Afterwards, Rabbi Uri Gelman, the spiritual leader of the 4300 Bathurst Street Synagogue since 1997, concluded the program with some inspirational words.

We then jumped back into action, serving the hamentashen, Moroccan clementines, chips, and drinks.

As he has done every year, Carl Zeliger expertly planned and implemented this year’s event, this time on very short notice. Thank you, Carl, for managing this program for so long, especially during years when you could not be here.

Special thanks also go to Rabbi Jay Kelman and his family for their continuous support of this endeavour year after year.

If this is indeed the Lodge’s final program, it feels fitting, as Forestdale Heights has always been known as a CVS Lodge. I can’t imagine a more appropriate note to end on.

Jeff Rosen