I am extremely honored to receive the Max and Mollie Shore Memorial Award.  Max and Mollie Shore were distinguished members of our community. They set high standards to follow. I am also proud to join the distinguished list of past honorees which includes my wife Brownie who received this honor 10 years ago.

Brownie and I share a similar commitment to our community and to Israel. Winnipeg’s Jewish community is unique and the envy of many larger communities. We may be small in numbers but we get things done due our hardworking volunteers.

I learned early in life, from my parents, that as a Jew I had a duty to help others and that giving of my time and fundraising is necessary if we want our projects locally and abroad to succeed. I believe that it is important for all members of our community to have equal access to our schools, camps and Jewish way of life. This can only happen if we continue to have strong community support. I also believe that we must support Israel whether we agree with its present leaders or not, as its existence is necessary for the security of Jewish communities worldwide.

I have never been afraid or uncomfortable to ask people for money to support our many worthwhile causes. Tzedakah is a tenet of Jewish life. It is something that I learned from my parents and it is something that we must teach our children and grandchildren if we want our community to flourish. Speak to your children. I believe that my daughters learned a lot from our discussions at the dinner table. I am proud to see their involvement and commitment to our community and to Israel.

 My life has been enriched by volunteering whether for CJA, the Simkin Center, JNF or the alpha omega dental fraternity just to name some.  As a volunteer I met and worked with many good people. I am proud of our accomplishments however the work never ends.

In closing I would like to thank the committee, Brownie, my family and my personal care workers who are fondly referred to as Harold’s angels.

I will always remember this evening and I will cherish this honor.  Thank you.