The Jewish Weekly Issue 170 - pre-Chanukah edition

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JEWS GLOBALLY TO CELEBRATE CHANUKAH

BY DAVID SAFFER

Jews around the world will light the first candle of the menorah tonight to mark the first night of Chanukah.

Celebrations globally will be different compared to those in recent memory due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The story of the “festival of lights” centres on the miracle of the oil and the stunning victory against all odds of the Maccabees over the mighty armies of Syrian ruler Antiochus Epiphanes in the 2nd century B.C. The age-old story is just as relevant today as it comes at a time when Covid vaccines are starting to be rolled out in the battle against the deadly virus.

It is not an overstatement to praise the work of scientists bringing about vaccines as ‘miraculous’.

Normally the process takes years

not months that is being witnessed.

Here in the UK, residents at Jewish care homes and medical staff on the front line will be among the first to be inoculated in unprecedented times.

Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl praised everyone that has made vaccination roll-outs possible and called on the Jewish community to support programmes.

“There is much work to be done, but the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel is brightening,” she said.

Just as Judah the Maccabee overcame all odds so too modern technology will ultimately succeed.

INSIDE THIS WEEK!

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SUPPLEMENT

Jewish Care Chanukah Appeal brings light to the community Jewish Care brings light to Leslie Barnett

who receives Jewish Care’s Meals on

Wheels

Jewish Care has launched a Chanukah apour community. peal, to help fund the extra support for older Many people, like Leslie Barnett, 95, people in our community who are relying featured in the appeal, live on their own on the organisation even more heavily, and have hardly left their homes since lockdown since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

The appeal focuses on the way the charity began and find cooking for themselves difficult, so are reliant on the hot three-course, is bringing light to many vulnerable people, kosher Meals on Wheels to eat well each especially through its Meals on Wheels day. service, which is a lifeline to many.

Leslie has lived on his own since his Since March, the organisation’s chefs late wife, Angela, sadly passed away. He have been making more than double says, the “I’m not used to being stuck at home amount of meals for vulnerable older on my own. Especially not for this long. Usually people in the community. The meals I are go to the Jewish Care community centre at delivered by the dedicated volunteers, who least once every week to see my friends. with the delicious hot and frozen, kosher But I’m no spring chicken and my health meals, bring relief from social isolation isn’t and what it was. So, I have to shelter at home light to those who rely on the charity. to keep myself safe.

However, the Meals on Wheels service “Angela and I always loved to dance, receives no government funding and and I’ve managed to keep up my dancing neither does the Jewish Care Direct ever Helpsince. But, of course being stuck at home line, which has received 40% calls since means I can’t do that. I found myself lockdown began. Many of those people staring who at the same four walls every day. I’ve never call the Helpline are then referred to the been much of a cook, though Angela used Jewish Care Social Work and Community to let me do the vegetables sometimes Support Team who provide more support. if she was going to be late back from work.

This service relies solely on the generosity But of that was years ago, and most of the time, all

The appeal focuses on the way the charity is bringing light to many vulnerable people, especially through its Meals on Wheels service…

with the meals too.

Daniel Carmel-Brown, Jewish Care’s Chief Executive says, “We have sent out more than 33,000 hot and frozen Kosher meals since the start of the pandemic and in the same period, our Jewish Care Direct Helpline has also received 40% more enquiries for assistance than we would normally expect. So, we know the need for the unique help we provide for the entire that is in my fridge are some empty Jewish boxes community in London and the South and a duster to clean it with.”

East is growing all the time.

The volunteer delivery drivers check in “But that help comes at a cost. Our Meals with clients and have a socially distanced on Wheels service and Jewish Care Direct chat. As well as delivering a nutritious meal, Helpline receives no government they also give older people living at home funding.

We need to raise £5 million on top of the opportunity to see another person the and £16 million we already need to raise just to help alleviate social isolation. continue to provide care and support Leslie says, “Sadly, Angela and I were to the not 10,000 lives we touch. blessed with children, so I don’t have any “With almost all of our fundraising events family of my own nearby.” cancelled because of the coronavirus Jewish Care chefs have made 33,000 pandemic, we are depending more than meals since the start of the pandemic, ever on the generosity of supporters like which have been delivered by the amazing you. So please make a gift this Chanukah and Jewish Care volunteers to clients. Th help is Chacontinue to bring light into the lives nukah, there will of course be latkes of more sent people like Leslie.”

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British forces and IDF sign 200 councillors attend Jewish London virtual event military co-operation deal

Robert Jenrick

PHOTO: GOV.UK

BY BELLA WAXLER Zero tolerance to anti-Semitism was the key message at a Jewish London seminar this week.

Around 200 councillors attended the Jewish London virtual event organised by the Board of Deputies, London Jewish Forum and Jewish Leadership Council.

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Robert Jenrick thanked the Jewish community for their “extraordinary efforts” in supporting the vulnerable during the pandemic, reaching out to neighbours and helping to growing Mitzvah

Day. “Faith communities together with our partners in local government have been at the forefront of the national response to the pandemic,” he said in a video message.

Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Steve Reed acknowledged the EHRC report demonstrated why the Labour Party had lost trust in the community.

“Every single one of us has a special responsibility to repair that broken relationship and show beyond doubt that we will no longer tolerate anti-Semitism in the Labour Party,” he said.

Board of Deputies Vice President Amanda Bowman told delegates that ‘ignorance is no excuse’ if politicians signal to supporters the anti-Semitic trope that the Jewish community is involved in conspiracies.

Almost every London council participated, 10% of the capital’s councillors participated.

Councillors attended sessions on anti-Semitism, Israel, education, social care and volunteering and organisations Claudia Mendoza, Jewish Leadership Council, said, “The seminar provided an opportunity to magnify and amplify the work of the Jewish charitable sector and educate councillors from across London on the needs of the Jewish communities they serve.

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General Sir Nicholas Carter

BY SIMCHA ABIR British Armed forces and Israel Defense Forces have signed a classified agreement to “deepen” military co-operation UK’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Sir Nicholas Carter and IDF Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Aviv Kochavi signed the deal last Thursday.

UK Ambassador to Israel, Neil Wigan, welcomed the development of Israel-UK relations in defence.

Co-operation includes medical training, organisational concepts and defence education.

Bicom note that military cooperation has grown over the last decade.

“Both militaries share a commitment to improving and integrating their multi-domain capabilities in maritime, land, air, space, and cyber and electromagnetic,” they noted.

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

“They share similar interests in the region. While Israel feels the Iranian threat far more acutely due to its relative geographic proximity, both countries wish to prevent Iran achieving a nuclear capability, curb its advanced ballistic missile programme and counter Iranian proxies, particularly in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and the shipping lanes of the Gulf.”

Both nations share concerns against radical Islamist terrorism. There is acknowledgment that Jordan is considered a “strategic priority” by Israel through cooperation over cyber security.

A senior UK official last year reportedly described this latter area as a “first-order partnership”.

Bicom also reported that both militaries will continue to “share expertise” and develop additional common defence platforms.

Marie named in stellar top-100 list Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl has been named one of the Algemeiner Jewish 100.

The New York-based Algemeiner newspaper lists the top 100 people influencing Jewish life around the world across a plethora of fields.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanhayu, US President-elect Joe Biden, chess player Garry Kasparov and actor Helen Mirren are among those listed.

Being part of such esteemed company is a huge accolade for the Board chief.

“It is wonderful to be named among such a stellar list,” she said. “This is great

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recognition for the important work the Board of Deputies has been doing over the past year on a variety of issues.”

London-born Marie’s citation notes that she is the 48th president of the Board of Deputies, which represents the UK Jewish community and assumed the role in 2018.

Recalling her role in the conflict between British Jews and the Labour Party under former leader, Jeremy Corbyn, this year she joined other faith leaders in speaking out against the genocidal repression of Uyghur Muslims by the Chinese Communist regime.

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 02 News 15 Letters 16 Opinion 18 Cookery 20 Feature 23 Pre-Chanukah Supplement

43 Community 52 Judaism 57 Kids 58 Youth 60 Sport

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10 DECEMBER 2020

Prince Charles and world leaders hail Rabbi Lord Sacks a “giant of his time”

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales

BY DAVID SAFFER Prince Charles, Israel’s former Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi, Yisrael Meir Lau, Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis gave heartfelt tributes during an online memorial event to honour the late former Chief Rabbi, Lord Jonathan Sacks last Sunday.

Lady Elaine Sacks spoke movingly at the start of service that coincided with the end of the ‘Shloshim’ period since Rabbi Sacks death last month.

Lord Robert Winston introduced sections of the event that brought tributes from former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, religious leaders including the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, former associates and inspired lay leaders in recalling Rabbi Sacks’ legacy.

Lady Sacks in her introduction said the family had been “overwhelmed by messages of support and memories” from across the spectrum of Jewish belief, religions and around the world in a powerful introduction.

“The fact that he was admired by those of all faiths reminds us that he was truly a Tzadik,” she noted.

Lord Winston said Rabbi Sacks was a “giant of his time, of any time, widely acclaimed as a leading Torah scholar of his generation”.

Addressing the family, he said, “May you find comfort in the outpouring of love that you have seen and in the lasting impact Rabbi Sacks has had on us all and will continue to have.”

Prince Charles said the sudden and unexpected death of Rabbi Sacks was “an irreplaceable loss” to the Jewish community, nation and world and most of all to

SCREEN GRAB: OFFICE OF RABBI SACKS

his family.

“Through his writings, sermons and broadcasts Rabbi Sacks touched the lives of countless people with his unfailing wisdom, profound sanity and morale conviction,” he noted.

Recalling how he described Rabbi Sacks as a ‘light unto the nation’ at a celebration of his tenure in 2013 as Chief Rabbi, Prince Charles added, “In the years that he was given to us how brightly that light burnt, how many lives were brightened and darkened places illuminated. He was truly a ‘light unto the nation’.

President Rivlin described Rabbi Sacks as a “light for all people”, adding, “He explained that religion is about looking for truth and politics, about looking for compromise. Liberal democracy, as he wrote, makes space for differences. This is an important message.”

Rabbi Lau met with Rabbi Sacks following his appointment as Chief Rabbi.

“He was so gentle and modest, and that’s something we should all learn from him, humility and modesty,” Israel’s former Chief Rabbi said.

Describing his speeches as “incredible”, he noted, “I think of myself as someone who knows a thing or two about speeches. His hand movements, his voice intonation, all the drama that he brought into his speeches. This spoke to the hearts of everyone. From Chabad representatives in New York to students and professors in university all over the world. Rabbi Sacks spoke excellently, this was the most prominent thing about him.”

Chief Rabbi Lau concluded, “It is difficult to find someone who could full Rabbi Sacks’ shoes, who managed to live in the world of Torah and in the world of wisdom

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks zt”l

philosophy and human theory. He was the bridge who knew how to bring peace between different parts of the (Jewish) nation and the bigger parts of the world’s nations.”

Chief Rabbi Mirvis said many people recognised the relevance of faith today thanks to Rabbi Sacks.

Three-time Labour leader Blair recalled that Rabbi Sacks gave him a feeling how “faith was central to human progress”.

Lord Winston recalled Rabbi Sacks’ many books and accolades received during his lifetime.

“He was not just a towering scholar in the Jewish world, his light shone as a thinker, broadcaster, philosopher, religious leader and public intellectual, a rare combination setting him apart everywhere,” he noted. “(Rabbi Sacks) had a wonderful way of making sense of a confusing world, communicating the most complex ideas to ordinary people. His concise speeches in the House of Lords dazzled in their depth, he was a moral voice to the world, to peoples of different faith or of none.”

Professor Robert P George, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence, Princeton University described Rabbi Sacks as a “gift to the Jewish community” and world.

He noted, “Throughout history there have from time to time emerged people of special spiritual insight and moral wisdom. They come from particular traditions and remain rooted in particular traditions but become teachers of all humanity. They share their insights and wisdom with all of us. Jonathan was one of them.”

The Archbishop of Canterbury said Rabbi Sacks gave his life “for the common good”, Natan Sharansky thanked him for his “unique wisdom”.

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PHOTO: OFFICE OF RABBI SACKS

Journalists, politicians, teachers and lay leaders spoke of their admiration and what they had learnt from Rabbi Sacks.

Lord Winston said everyone had a responsibility to continue Rabbi Sacks’ legacy.

He concluded, “Rabbi Sacks passionately believed in a Judaism engaged with the world. His perspectives shaped modern-Jewish thoughts, his was the voice of a modern-day prophet challenging both us and the times. His ideas resonated far beyond the Jewish community, global leaders turned to him for advice helping to shape societies. His life’s work was in his words to “bring the world that is closer to the world that ought to be”.”

Dayan Ivan Binstock and Rabbi Lionel Rosenthal recited the Hadren and the memorial prayer respectively.

Interspersed throughout were insights of wisdom from Rabbi Sacks including the events’ final words.

He said, “I admire other civilisations and traditions and believe each has brought something special into the world. But this is ours. This is my people, my heritage, my faith. In our uniqueness lies our universality. Through being what we alone are, we give to humanity what only we can give.

“This, then, is our story, our gift to the next generation. I received it from my parents and they from theirs, across great expanses of space and time. There’s nothing quite like it. It changed and still challenges the moral imagination of humankind.

“I want to say to Jews around the world: Take it. Cherish it. Learn to understand and to love it. Carry it. And it will carry you.

And may you in turn pass it on to future generations. For you are a member of an eternal people. A letter in their scroll. Let their eternity live on in you.”

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Chabad ensures millions around the world will celebrate Chanukah

BY SIMCHA ABIR Chabad have sent 350,000 Chanukah kits to countless families in 100 countries around the world to help them celebrate the festival in the midst of the global pandemic.

The special kits include games and crafts from local emissaries but the festival will have a different feel to recent years due to local restrictions.

Among a plethora of initiatives Chabad are distributing an astounding 64 million Chanukah candles, over 700,000 menorah kits and 2.5 million festival guides in 17 languages to families. Volunteer teen and young professional ‘Ambassadors of Light’ have gifted their friends with menorahs and other festival necessities. Meantime, some 10 million visitors are expected to utilise Chabad’s “how to” guides on its website.

“It’s about reaching the people in their communities,” Rabbi Zalmy Loewenthal, director of Chabad Children’s Network, CKids reportedly said. “Plus, we wanted to give the kids something special and make them excited for the holiday.”

Closer to home, Chabad NE London & Essex has come up with an innovative way that allows the community to celebrate the ‘Festival of Lights’ and still adhere to the Covid regulations.

A Grand Chanukah Concert Drive In takes place at The Drive In Troubadour, Meridian Water with a full programme of entertainment next Thursday (6.30pm).

This special event is a culmination of seven different evenings of Menorah lightings in

Chabad Chanukah kits

PHOTO: CHABAD.ORG

different locations throughout the area that will be live streamed.

Around 1,000 people are expected to attend the Concert Drive In, who will all be in their cars for social distancing purposes and will be entertained by live bands, magicians and jugglers.

Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin explained, “We are very pleased to be able to have this Chanukah celebration, especially during this period of uncertainty.”

Rabbi Odom Brandman of Chabad Buckhurst Hill and Rabbi Yossi Posen of Chabad Epping assisted by Rabbi Mordechai Wollenberg of Woodford Forest US managed the project.

“It is an opportunity for the community to get together safely and celebrate a very important festival in the Jewish Calendar, on the

last night of Chanukah,” added Rabbi Sufrin.

For the event a new menorah has been designed and built by Alan Grant.

Rabbi Sufrin noted, “Chanukah is a time of joy and celebration, it’s the time that we join together with the local United Synagogue community in a strength of unity of Jewish pride across Essex.”

Elsewhere around the UK, synagogues have been advising communities what is available.

Globally though for the organisation, initiatives galore have been organised to bring the festival to life.

Celebrating in one’s home is the “Jewish way,” Rabbi Schusterman of Harford County reportedly said. “Corona just accelerated that for us, and people are willing to try new things.

CAA call on Tories to conclude anti-Semitism investigations

BY ADAM MOSES Campaign Against Antisemitism has called on the Conservative Party to conclude three alleged investigations into anti-Semitism and publish the results.

Twelve months have passed since the party announced the investigations and there is no indication when they might be concluded and outcomes disclosed.

To date, the Tories have divulged that an investigation into Richard Short has been concluded. Investigations into Sally-Ann Hart MP and Lee Anderson MP appear to still be outstanding.

It is some months since the Party claimed to CAA that the investigation into Anderson was near completion. Further updates have not been provided nor public disclosure.

A CAA spokesperson said, “These investigations were reassuringly announced by

the Conservatives at the end of last year, in some cases before the allegations were even known to the public. But there is no justification for these investigations to be taking this long.

“These are not murder investigations, and the Tories now risk making their poor procedures and lack of transparency, rather than the allegations themselves, the real story. The Conservative Party must conclude these investigations immediately and finally publish the results.”

CAA added, “In the absence of public disclosures by the Party, as far as we are concerned the investigations into Lee Anderson MP Anderson and Hart

are still open until the public is verifiably informed otherwise.

Ironically, since not all of the allegations have been made public, their gravity cannot be assessed, leaving the Party’s procedural failures in the spotlight.”

The Party announced it was commencing the investigations during the closing days of the General Election. Some allegations were reported at the time, others are still unknown.

Hart, claimed in a television interview a few months ago, that a panel investigation had been concluded and she had attended social media training.

No public announcePHOTO: WIKIMEDIA ment has been made.

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“In previous years, the goal of programming was to get people to join our menorah-lighting. This year the focus has changed to how to empower people to celebrate the holidays in their own homes.

“Where we live, not every supermarket has Chanukah candles,” he added, “So sending out these kits, which include candles and other items, takes away one barrier to observing the mitzvah of the holiday.”

Rabbi Menachem Matusof, Chabad Lubavitch of Alberta, Canada, made the point that the increased efforts was the ultimate expression of the teachings of The Rebbi, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson.

“Since the beginning of COVID-19, our approach, like many others, is that business is going on, but just not as usual,” he reportedly noted. “And not only is it going on, but we are going to expand. Our goal is to send a ‘toolbox’ to every single Jewish home in Calgary and small towns in Alberta, to senior homes, to people with and without children.”

“We are mobilised and ready, working around the clock to make it happen.”

For Chabad, the initiatives follow landmark giant menorah lightings launched by the Rebbe in 1973.

Decades on what was for many Jews a ‘minor’ festival has become a major one around the world.

Jewish school’s the world over are recalling the age old story and in these uncertain times it is a welcome time to celebrate as a family unit like never before for generations of families.

Israel aids Honduras after hurricanes IDF’s Home Front Command and Foreign Ministry assisted Honduras after hurricane Eta and Iota struck last month.

Over three million Hondurans were affected. There were 150,000 people left homeless due to damage and tragically 100 fatalities.

Commanding Officer of the National Rescue Unit, Col. (res.) Golan Vach led a 15-strong delegation of experts in their fields having faced similar situations in recent years.

“The State of Israel and Home Front Command will continue to assist in the aftermath of any disaster around the world that requires its experience and capabilities,” he stated.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he was proud of Israel’s humanitarian delegation.

Honduras President Juan Orlando thanked the Israel in a message of hope to our people.

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Dahl company apologises for author’s anti-Semitic views

BY ADAM MOSES The Roald Dahl Story Company has apologised after 30 years for the famous author’s anti-Semitic views.

An admission from the estate came after signing deals for Dahl’s work to be shown on the big screen.

Campaign Against Antisemitism is encouraged by the apology, which is on the Dahl website, though it should have come many years ago.

“For his family and estate to have waited 30 years to make an apology, apparently until lucrative deals were signed with Hollywood, is disappointing and sadly rather more comprehensible,” a spokesman said.

“It is a shame that the estate has seen fit merely to apologise for Dahl’s anti-Semitism rather than to use its substantial means to do anything about it.”

CAA notes on its website a number of ‘inflammatory’ comments from Dahl, who said of the Jews that nobody had ever “switched so rapidly from victims to barbarous murderers” a breach of the International Definition of anti-Semitism. Dahl claimed that Jews owned the media and positive American relations toward Israel was because of excessive Jewish power.

The Royal Mint refused to issue a commemorative coin to celebrate the centenary of his birth over his anti-Semitism in 2014, An apology is now on the Dahl website, noting, “The Dahl family and the Roald

Roald Dahl

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Dahl Story Company deeply apologise for the lasting and understandable hurt caused by some of Roald Dahl’s statements. Those prejudiced remarks are incomprehensible to us and stand in marked contrast to the man we knew and to the values at the heart of Roald Dahl’s stories, which have positively impacted young

people for generations. We hope that, just as he did at his best, at his absolute worst, Roald Dahl can help remind us of the lasting impact of words.”

CAA noted, “The apology should have come much sooner and been published less obscurely, but the fact that it has come at all, after so long, is an encouraging sign that Dahl’s racism has been acknowledged even by those who profit from his creative works, which so many have enjoyed.”

In other CAA news, the Chief Rabbi of Moldova, Shimshon Daniel Izakson, has called on Moldovan authorities to protect the country’s small community after vandals desecrated dozens of tombstones in a Jewish cemetery in the capital, Chisinau.

Most of the country’s Jews, some 12,000 to 15,000, reside in the capital city.

The Chief Rabbi lamentably often experiences anti-Semitic comments in his everyday travels. And the Jewish cemetery has been vandalised over recent three years.

A Museum of Jewish History was supposedly to be located close by to commemorate Holocaust victims, combat anti-Semitism and promote tolerance in an announcement in 2018.

Former Prime Minister Pavel Filip even called for a Jewish cultural centre like a “small-scale Yad Vashem” two years ago.

Though 550,000 Euros has been allocated no money has been invested in the project as yet.

Chief Rabbi Izakson is hopeful the Moldovan state will fulfil its promises. The latest

incident has brought a reaction from authorities who have committed to catch the culprits. The Foreign Ministry and Prime Minister Ion Chicu have also reportedly called for the hate crime to be solved.

The crime carries a fine or a 12-month jail term for those convicted.

Meantime, a French court has handed a six-month prison sentence to a 38-yer-old man who verbally attacked a Jewish graffiti artist in Strasbourg last August.

The perpetrator must also pay €500 damages to the victim and €1,000 to French anti-racism organisations SOS Racisme and Licra.

The artist was working on a project for the municipality when one of his attackers reportedly insulted him, “You are a Jew, you have no place here”. Forced to change his t-shirt, as it had names of various countries on it including Israel, the victim returned but was again confronted.

The incident was reported to the Strasbourg City Council. The defendant expressed remorse to the artist, who described the attack as “the worst three hours of my life”, and wider Jewish community.

Meantime, 26 German soldiers are suspected of having links to anti-Semitism and right-wing extremism.

According to a report, many were part of a logistics unit in northern Germany.

Prosecutors have banned three soldiers from the military.

This is the latest in a number of far-right issues to afflict the German military.

Israel and Slovenia technology agreement

BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel and Slovenia have agreed to cooperate in technological innovation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa to ratify the development.

Netanyahu welcomed the opportunity to begin a new dawn in the relationship between the countries.

“This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship,” he said. “You have always been a great champion of an Israeli-Slovenia alliance.”

Israel’s leader praised Jansa’s commitment to the vision.

“This is our first meeting and I think it could be one of many,” he said. “There are many opportunities. People always ask, “How come you didn’t do this before?”

Slovenia and Israel are two advanced democracies, technologically capable,

looking to the future and sharing the desire to better the lives of our people. And we can do this better together.”

Regarding the innovation agreement, Netanyahu noted, “The future belongs to those who innovate. Innovation is what creates value. It creates a competitive advantage. It drives forward economies. We can help each other’s economies and citizens by cooperating in innovation.”

Israel’s leader added that there could be other areas of interest including cyber, trade and tourism.

He noted, “We already have a sizable number of Israeli tourists visiting Slovenia. There’ll be more. I hope to visit you one day as well, and I hope it’s not in the distant future. And we look forward to using your port in the Adriatic Sea, Koper, to have it as an entry point for Israeli products to Europe as well. We are well under way going in that direction.”

Netanyahu thanked Jansa for designating Hezbollah as a terrorist organisation.

Turning his attentions to the recent signing of the Abraham Accords, Netanyahu commented, “Country after country is joining the peace agreement that we have and the normalisation agreements that we have with the United Arab Emirates, with Bahrain, with Sudan. Others are coming in.

“This is a new reality, completely different from what is commonly thought of in the foreign ministries and chancelleries of Europe. And some of our European friends already get it. I’m glad you’ve always seen it.

“An Emirati has bought Beitar Jerusalem, which is one of our well-known soccer teams. It tells you how things are changing so rapidly.”

Netanyahu appealed to Jansa in his EU presidency role for the EU to understand

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Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

there are different opportunities and alliances available for the better.

Netanyahu also discussed how Israel is tackling the coronavirus pandemic and progressing with vaccines.

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Ethiopian Jews airlifted to Israel

BY SIMHA ABIR Hundreds of Ethiopian Jews have landed at Ben Gurion Airport this month as part of Operation Rock of Israel.

The initiative reunites families and relatives from Ethiopia’s Jewish community who have already immigrated to Israel.

Up to 7,000 Ethiopians with Jewish roots remain in the country. Around 2,000 are

expected to arrive by January 2021.

Over 300 members of the Falash Mura community accompanied by Immigration Minister Pnina Tamano-Shata, who was airlifted to Israel from Ethiopia in 1984, landed in a recent flight.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Benny Gantz, Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi, Finance Minister Israel Katz and Jewish Agency Chairman

Isaac Herzog attended a greeting ceremony.

“I can’t remember being so moved by such a distilled sight of Zionism which demonstrates all our qualities,” Netanyahu said.

“The sight of olim (immigrants) getting off the plane carrying baskets as I remember from my childhood, touching the ground of the Land of Israel, a mother kissing the ground.

“This is the essence of the Jewish and

Premier League praise over IHRA but Blades slated

AAD chairman Jonathan Metliss

BY DAVID SAFFER Jewish groups have welcomed the Premier League adopting the International Definition of Antisemitism. But lay leaders have slated Sheffield United for being the sole topflight club not to sign up to the definition.

It is hoped the example set by the 19 Premier League outfits will identify and discipline anti-Jewish racism among players and employees as it will send a signal to fans that anti-Smitism has no place in football.

Action Against Discrimination has long campaigned since its inception for the Premier League to take this stand.

AAD chairman Jonathan Metliss welcomed the news as it was “all too relevant and topical”.

“Last Sunday, anti-Semitic chanting and yelling was heard outside Stamford Bridge ahead of the Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur Premier League match, notwithstanding that the game was being played behind closed doors without any spectators being present,” he said.

“Although the IHRA definition has been adopted by the Premier League and clubs, it remains imperative that they should introduce proper and effective procedures to combat anti-Semitism in football enabling

appropriate action to be taken against all offenders, and act accordingly. This is in addition to the legislation currently available to fight anti-Semitism in football.”

Metliss has been fighting racism in sport and in particular anti-Semitism since 1982 and wants to see other British footballing bodies down to grassroots level follow the Premier League’s action.

“Only then can we be assured that the issue of anti-Semitism in UK football has been taken seriously and that appropriate action will be taken in this area such as the abolition and eradication of the chanting of the ‘Y Word’ which provokes significant anti-Semitic responses, such as witnessed at Stamford Bridge last Sunday,” he said.

Metliss added, “The adoption of the IHRA definition by the Premier League and its clubs is a step in the right direction but means absolutely nothing if the Premier League and clubs do nothing to follow it up,” he said. “As far as we are aware, the Football Association, EFL, EFL clubs and tiers below have all been silent so far and we know how some clubs make little or no effort to address the issue in practice. Mere words and cosmetic statements are worthless.”

Bill Bush, Premier League executive director, said the league would to tackle “any form of discrimination in football”.

“Our adoption of the IHRA’s working definition will enable us to be more effective in dealing with any anti-Semitic behaviour targeting our clubs or personnel,” he explained. “We continue to work closely with clubs and relevant authorities to ensure that any incident of discrimination is dealt with appropriately.”

The IHRA adoption is the latest step in the Premier League’s continued work to ensure football is a welcoming environment for all,” Bush added.

Campaign Against Antisemitism have worked hard to ensure widespread adoption

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10 DECEMBER 2020 Zionist story and that is why, our brothers and sisters, we are excited to welcome you here. Welcome to the State of Israel. The Ethiopian community is returning to the motherland, step by step.”

There has been criticism of the government in following up a 2015 decision to bring Ethiopians of Jewish lineage to Israel within five years. Netanyahu’s Likud party pledged to do more at the elections early this year.

Activist group, The Struggle for Ethiopian Aliyah, have slammed the government for celebrating a few hundred immigrants while thousands are still left behind. of the definition with Lord John Mann, in particular, campaigning for the Premier League and its clubs to adopt it.

A spokesman noted, “The definition will enable the Premier League and its member clubs to identify and discipline anti-Jewish racism among players and employees, and will send a signal to fans that antisemitism has no place in football.”

Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl applauded the Premier League’s decision.

“The ugliness of anti-Semitism has no place in the beautiful game,” she noted. “Our gratitude also goes to Lord Mann for his indefatigable work towards this tremendous outcome.”

Sheffield United’s decision not to adopt the definition has been lambasted.

A CAA spokesperson said it was astonishing the club alone would “disgracefully decline” to adopt the Definition.

“It sends absolutely the wrong message to fans and players, and undermines the growing consensus that racism has no place in football,” CAA noted. “Serious questions must now be asked of the owners and management of the club over this scandalous own goal.”

The Bramall Lane outfit are owned by Prince Abdullah Al Saud, a member of the Saudi Royal Family.

The Blades insist the club support the IHRA definition “as a shareholder”.

A club statement said the club has a “zero tolerance approach” to discrimination including anti-Semitism.

“Through our support of a number of campaigns, we have consistently reaffirmed our deep commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion,” they noted.

Regarding Sheffield, Metless commented, “They may come around to it. I can’t believe that their failure to support so far, if true, stems from the ownership. This could be interpreted as equating Judaism with Zionism although, the climate in the Middle East is changing rapidly with more Arab states recognising and dealing with the State of Israel.

“Having said that, unlike Leeds United, Sheffield United and its supporters do not have a history nor record of anti-Semitism or anti-Semitic behaviour.

“We are relaxed on Sheffield United but, naturally, it would be better to have them on board.”

Amanda Bowman, Board of Deputies vice president called on the club to sign up.

“That would be a sign of their commitment to identifying and combating the anti-Jewish racism which has for too long stained the reputation of English football,” she noted.

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Sa’ar sets up right-wing party to take on Netanyahu

Gideon Sa’ar

BY DAVID SAFFER Gideon Sa’ar has set up a new right-wing party to challenge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a general election next year.

The Knesset has voted for the country to go to the polls on March 16 2021.

Netanyahu’s long time Likud Party rival made his announcement at a press conference on Tuesday night.

Early opinion polls had Likud ahead of competing parties but Sa’ar’s action could hit Netanyahu’s ability to form a coalition as early polling illustrates he could command up to 10 seats.

Netanyahu soundly defeated Sa’ar in a leadership election a year ago but his former ally launched a blistering attack as election fever begins to gather pace.

“A year ago, I tried to make a change, I ran against Netanyahu for (the) Likud leadership and I have accepted the decision of Likud constituents,” Sa’ar reportedly said. “However, everything that has happened in the last year has made me realise a change in the country’s leadership was necessary.”

The former Interior and Education minister added, “Likud was my political home but it has been changing dramatically and fast. The movement has become a tool to serve the interests of the man standing at its helm, including those pertaining to his criminal trial. Loyalty to Likud’s way, values and ideals have been replaced by flattery and platitudes that border a cult of personality of a man, flesh and blood.”

PHOTO: FACEBOOK

Sa’ar stated that he could no longer support a government or party led by Netanyahu.

“I say this with much regret, as someone who saw him as the right leader to lead the country for many years and served in senior positions in his governments,” he noted. “Today, Israel needs unity and stability, and Netanyahu can and will no longer be able to give it either. Today, the order of the day (is) to replace the Netanyahu regime, the longest-serving in the country’s history.”

Sa’ar formally resigned from his post as a member of the Knesset yesterday, he described his party as a broad nationalist and social movement.

Likud initially issued a statement that Sa’ar’s decision was retaliation for his defeat to Netanyahu and a diminishing popularity in party polls.

“Sa’ar was beaten and then broke all his promises by abandoning Likud just as Prime Minister Netanyahu secured millions of (coronavirus) vaccines to Israeli citizens, reducing morbidity and mortality to one of the lowest levels in the world and bringing historic peace agreements,” Likud reportedly noted.

The party has since attempted to minimise Sa’ar’s departure in having a major impact regarding the wrangle with Blue & White and an ensuing election.

Israeli media has reported that Likud MK Yifat Shasha-Bitton, who chairs the Coronavirus Committee is among a number of members that will join Sa’ar’s party.

Derekh Eretz coalition faction members

Zvi Hauser and Yoaz Hendel, who left the Blue & White Party, have as exptected joined Sa’ar who will anticipate support from disgruntled Likud and Yamina voters.

Israel moved towards a fourth election in two years when the Knesset approved a ‘no confidence’ bill Netanyahu’s ‘unity’ government last week.

Three further readings will take place before elections are officially called.

Should the coalition ultimately fall, and it is expected to, Netanyahu will remain Prime Minister for a three-month election campaign then until a new coalition is formed.

Last week’s decision came after months of failed deliberations by Netanyahu and Defence Minister Benny Gantz’s coalition over a 2020/21 state budget.

In related news, elections will reportedly cost Israel over NIS 3 billion.

Coronavirus restrictions mean a twoday election period to accommodate social distancing at polling stations that will have limited staff and voters.

An estimated NIS 350 million has been allocated to the Central Election Committee to cover polling stations, ballots, staff and inspectors. A further NIS 270 million will be given to fund campaigns by political parties.

Netanyahu lambasted political parties after MKs passed the preliminary reading of the bill to dissolve the Knesset. Opposition leaders Yair Lapid, (Yesh Atid-Telem) and Naftali Bennet (Yamina) proposed the preliminary motion which passed by

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61 votes to 54.

In a televised address from the Knesset, Netanyahu reportedly said, “The nation of Israel wants vaccinations, not voting. To my regret Gantz is being dragged in the wake of Lapid and Bennet,” he said.

Netanyahu in his statement overviewed his actions in the battle against coronavirus, diplomatic and defence achievements. He also called on Gantz to overturn his decision to dissolve the Knesset.

“We have to put politics aside, there will be enough time for that and we need to act together for the citizens of Israel,” he reportedly said. “Gantz needs to put the brakes on and stop this deterioration into elections and these attacks. We need to behave differently.

“If Blue & White stop the disillusion of Knesset, there will be unity, but that cannot happen if Blue & White form a government within the government, opposition within the coalition.”

Gantz remained defiant a day after the vote and has called for an election as soon as possible.

“I preferred to pay the price myself rather than inflict it on Israelis,” he reportedly said. “We don’t (want to) have a drawn out and expensive campaign during a health crisis.”

He added, “Netanyahu did not utter one word of truth during his entire speech yesterday. Blue & White never violated the coalition agreement.

“The fact that there is no budget is a financial crime committed only because Netanyahu refuses to leave the Prime Minister’s residence and fulfil his commitment to a rotation.

“No one can say I didn’t try in earnest, to work with the Prime Minister.”

Gantz is evaluating forming a coalition with with opposition factions before the final reading of the bill.

The Blue & White Party went on to accuse Netanyahu of deceit, inflicting damage in various areas and blamed his alleged corruption case for causing a lack of unity.

“Netanyahu, we’re done with the manipulations,” the party noted. “Your long campaign of deceit and lies is over. Now it’s your actions that matter. The damage you’re inflicting on the people of this country, in the throes of an economic, medical, and social crisis, as so many challenges loom, suggest that you have lost it. We all know the truth. You do too.

If it weren’t for your trial, there would be a budget. If it weren’t for your trial, there would be government appointments. If it weren’t for your trial, there would be unity. The responsibility is yours and yours alone.”

14 NEWS

Chanukah night curfew dropped 24 hours before ‘festival of lights’

Mamilla Mall

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel’s government has dropped proposals for a night-time curfew throughout Chanukah in a bid to stop large gatherings causing a Covid-19 spike.

The decision less than 24 hours before the start of the festival caused heated political debate all week not only on the Chanukah curfew but also the festive period for Christian communities.

The government is due to hold and emergency session this morning to discuss Health Ministry recommendations to ban households socialising at night during Chanukah, and even more contentiously, shops closing after 5.30pm.

At the time of going to press it is believed Blue & White MKs will oppose businesses closing.

Curfew proposals were shelved over police manpower issues, legal obstacles and a clarity if the action would have a positive impact on Covid cases.

In the midst of the debate, 240 shopping centres, outdoor markets and museums across Israel reopened yesterday after three months. Strict social distancing, mask-wearing and computer systems to monitor customers numbers will be in

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place until at least December 23.

Centres opened after a two-week pilot of 15 venues across the country operating under strict measures, which was hailed a success.

The possibility of early closing received short shrift from opposing MKs. Officials are still evaluating ways to restrict social gatherings during Chanukah beginning tonight.

The political and media storm centred on experts calling into question the logic of a curfew.

Public Health chief Dr. Sharon Elrai-Price and coronavirus czar Prof. Nachman Ash were uncertain of the overall effect.

“The numbers are not currently catastrophic, so tightening restrictions can only bring us down to 1,000 patients a day,” Elrai-Price reportedly noted earlier this week.

Prof. Eran Segal of the Weizmann Institute of Science backed the viewpoint in terms of fatalities.

“In the best-case scenario, (the curfew) will reduce the R number by 0.05,” he reportedly said. “It will primarily erode the public trust that has already been damaged. According to phone triangulation, less than 10% of all contacts happen at

night.”

“Instead of a nightly curfew, we must crack down on the social contact, illicit weddings and Chanukah events that will be shifted from the nigh-time to earlier in the day and the people who do not abide by the guidelines and who we have been unable to monitor for a long while,” Segal added. “The decision-makers also know (that the curfew) will not work, they have been told as such. I have not seen a single analysis that claims a nigh-time curfew will be highly effective.”

Acting Israel Police Commissioner Motti Cohen warned police could not enforce a night curfew.

“If I look at the effectiveness of a nighttime closure versus the expected result, my recommendation is not to impose such a closure,” Cohen reportedly confirmed.

Health Ministry’s deputy director Prof.

Itamar Grotto is set to leave the post and dismissed the impact of a curfew.

“That night-time lockdown is a tool that is not suitable for use in the face of the problems presented by the holiday of Chaunkah,” he reportedly said.

“Lighting (Chanukah) candles is an important tradition, but stopping gatherings with a night-time curfew is like using a cannon to hit a fly,” Grotto added.

The outgoing deputy director confirmed that police would stop illegal, mass candle lighting ceremonies and called on families to celebrate at home.

Earlier in the week, the coronavirus cabinet backed a curfew.

“We have seen that during the holidays, gatherings tend to cause a jump in morbidity,” Prof. Arnon Afek noted. “Previously we enacted a closure that was very effective but the damage it caused was great.

This time the government is trying to see if a night-time closure will prevent the same gatherings. We do not know if it will help or not. No one knows, but we are trying.”

Afek added, “Maintaining public health is critical,” he said.

Regarding potential vaccinations, Afek reportedly said they were safer than doing nothing at all.

Thousands mourn Mir Yeshiva spiritual leader Rabbi Chadash Thousands of mourners attended the funeral of Mir Yeshiva’s spiritual leader Rabbi Aharon David Chadash in Jerusalem.

Rabbi Hadash, 92, passed away in hospital last week due to Covid-19 complications after being hospitalised in October.

Born in Jerusalem, Rabbi Hadash was renowned for supporting his student’s decades after leaving his yeshiva. Whilst studying at Mir Yeshiva, he ensured, he hosted them on Shabbat and without seeking praise, students struggling financially had a new suit at Yom Tov. Rabbi Hadash’s father, Rabbi Meir Chadash, was a notable Mashgiach in Yeshivah Hebron, his mother, Rebbetzin Tziviah Leah, was the daughter of Rabbi Naftali Menachem Hutner, Rabbi in Eishishok, Lithuania, and Rebbetzin Kreina, sister of Rabbi Moshe Mordechai Epstein, Rosh Yeshivah, Knesses Yisroel in Slabodka and later in Hebron.

His brothers are Rabbi Moshe Mordechai Chadash, Rosh Yeshivah, Yeshivas Ohr Elchanan who died in 2016, Rabbi Naftali Chadash, Mashgiach in Yeshivas Ohr Elchanan and Rabbi Yosef Chadash.

His sister, Rebbetzin Shulamit Ezrachi, is the wife of Rabbi Baruch Mordechai Ezrachi, Rosh Yeshivah, Yeshivas Ateres Yisrael.

“We do not know what the long-term effects (of the vaccination) will be, but I am sure the Western regulatory system has done all it can to produce a safe vaccine for us all,” he said.

“There is one thing that is far, far worse than the vaccine and that is the coronavirus. We trust the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration]), the British authorities and the authorities in Israel and believe that they will continue to operate with the same transparency as they have so far.”

Latest Health Ministry data reported 1,837 new coronavirus cases, the highest daily rise since mid-October. The death toll is 2,924. Of 13,949 patients battling the disease, 315 are in serious condition, 107 are connected to ventilators.

Israel Sends COVID Rescue Team to Northern Italy BEN HORODENKER A team of 21 experienced medical staff from Sheba Medical Center flew on a 10day mission to northern Italy on Tuesday night to help the local hospitals fight a serious second wave COVID crisis. The delegation was led by Prof. Elhanan BarOn, head of the Israel Center for Disaster Medicine at Sheba. This is the first time that Sheba has sent an experienced coronavirus team abroad to assist another nation in need.

Following a significant increase in the

number of severely ill patients, the Piedmont authorities in northern Italy had reached out to Israel through the Health and Foreign Affairs ministries.

The Piedmont region has seen over 169,000 COVID cases as of December 1, including over 4,600 hospitalized and 377 in intensive care. The Sheba team began on Thursday morning to treat patients at the Ospedale Michele E Pietro Ferrero hospital in Piedmont, taking some of the pressure off the local staff.

“We are the only hospital in the region, and one of the very few from the entire

world to send a delegation,” said Prof. BarOn. “We will be joining hands and working shoulder to shoulder with Italian medical staff to save lives and make a better world,” he said.

Prof. Bar-On has participated in numerous humanitarian aid missions throughout the years, following earthquakes and other disasters in India, Haiti, Nepal, Turkey, the Philippines and more. Since Sheba founded the Israel Center for Disaster Medicine and Humanitarian Response in 2017, missions have been sent to the Palestinian Authority as well as all over the world.

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Israeli team

PHOTO: SHARON YANIV-SHEBA MEDICAL CENTER

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PERSONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS Send in your personal announcement to letters@thejewishweekly.com £1.50 per word (£25 minimum)

ENGAGEMENTS Noémie and Danny Lopian together with Dalia and Aryeh Kramer are delighted to announce the engagement of

ELLA TO YAIR Mazel tov to grandparents Mrs R Bornstein, Rabbi and Mrs Kramer and Mrs P Werner.

Fondly remembering those no longer with us.

Letters to the Editor Send in your comments to letters@thejewishweekly.com

Please note: The views of the letters do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Letters may be edited and publication is at the discretion of the editor.

FESTIVALS OF LIGHT – CHANUKAH Dear Editor Please see below my poem for Chanukah…

This past week, as I got up from my Shloshim on 8 December One of the most enjoyable of our Chagim arrives – Chanukah A joyous, winter festival of lights Celebrated for eight days and nights Illuminating our lives and homes, with candles lit on the Menorah This is much-needed for me after my wife, so suddenly from Cancer, passed on Probably, after a year of Coronavirus-laden doom and gloom, it is for everyone A year that’s been full of lockdowns, tiers and face covering Bubbles – Jewish ones being “bubelehs,” testing and tracing, Social distancing, no kiddushim or singing in Shuls – so much has now gone As we look forward to some celebration, Covid-19 has cost The Jewish community in the UK, dearly as we have lost Far too many of our own to the current pandemic And over a million people worldwide – a statistic Demonstrating, in human lives, just how much it has cost Chanukah Sameach to all staff at, and readers of, The Jewish Weekly To my family and friends and the worldwide Jewish community J D Milaric 25 Kislev 5781 / 10 December 2020

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LETTERS 15

16 OPINION

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OPINION

Is it racist to boo while somebody takes the knee in solidarity with BLM?

BY JAMES J MARLOW Football fans returned to many of their respective football stadiums across the country last weekend for the first time since last April – well about 2000 spectators, which is the maximum allowed into a game at this time, according to the current Covid 19 rules.

When games resumed in England after the original lockdown, they were played

in front of empty stands, but televised and all players in all teams at the start of the match “took the knee” along with referees and lines-people.

Last weekend fans therefore were looking forward to getting away from news and politics and having a great day out by cheering their team on at a football game.

Over at the Millwall versus Derby game, fans perhaps, forgot the custom at the start and booed the knee gesture. The media naturally focused its spotlight on Millwall fans who have a reputation of being racist, despite the fact that the club has done more to root out racism, than maybe any other club in the country.

Now I am NOT a Millwall fan, nor do I defend any possible racists and anti-Semites in the crowd. But I am arguing that you can be an anti-racist and yet refuse to take the knee. You can be an anti-racist and NOT support the Black Lives Matter outfit, because it is a politically aligned movement, supported by mostly by far left individuals who identify with Marxism.

Of course Socialists are anti-racists, although some didn’t see a problem with anti-Semitism. But what many of them fail to understand is that not every anti-racist is a Socialist and therefore not every anti-racist has to support the political movement of BLM. On the 28 June, 2020, the official Black Lives Matter UK twitter account with the blue verification tick, tweeted: “As Israel moves forward with the annexation of the West Bank and mainstream British politics is gagged of the right to critic Zionism and Israeli secular colonial pursuits, we loudly and clearly stand besides our Palestinians comrades. FREE PALESTINE.” There were 12 tweets in that thread and all of them were negative comments about Israel whilst praising the Palestinian movement.

This has nothing whatsoever to do with domestic racism, but the political BLM movement couldn’t help themselves. You don’t fight racism with racism.

The official BLM UK twitter account does the exact same thing as world nations do at the United Nations. It criticises and condemns Israel for being there, but has never once commented on the alleged genocide taking place in China, or other atrocities in the world.

So let’s return to football. The booing didn’t just happen at the Millwall ground, it also occurred at the West Ham v Man United and the Colchester v Grimsby games. Yet only Millwall was singled out, because in the past, it has been associated with racism.

Several Millwall fans who were at the game took the opportunity to call in to LBC Radio and explained why they booed. It wasn’t because “white” anti-racist callers said “all Millwall fans are racist” or “thick” or “uneducated.”

Millwall supporters, and some were quite eloquent, said they had been away from the club for more than 6 months, because of Covid, and wanted to enjoy a game of football and not watch a political stunt.

One said he went to the BLM website and said “I don’t agree with defunding the police”, but yet that is one of their goals listed on their website. Another said, there is a global ruling class movement that wishes to end nations in favour of globalism and they push a message of trans-gender rights, immigration, treaties and the EU. He ended by saying “We

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never had politics in football before and now we do.”

A third wrote in a text, “As a Millwall fan, I agreed with the booing for taking the knee. But we support the “Kick It Out” anti-racism message and would continue to support that. We do not however support any gesture that has been designed

by BLM, a Marxism movement, designed to disband the nuclear family.”

We cannot pretend the booing is as simple as “well because they are racist,” because that’s not true. Maybe some are, but certainly not all of them. And for those who may be racist, I can defend them without agreeing with them.

If somebody comes to you and says I am not a racist, I am not an anti-Semite, but I have a few concerns, let them speak and engage in a debate. Don’t silence them and label them as racists, which is what much of the media does these days.

You have to be quite courageous to speak out against the majority surrounding you. They have a different belief, so let them express it, and listen to what they are saying.

The BLM movement is designed to point the finger at white people, whilst attacking and demonising them. The “taking the knee” began after the death of George Floyd, but really can be traced back to the Black Panthers in the sixties in America.

BLM has been hijacked and this so called anti-racist movement has turned into an anti-capitalist, anti-Israel, anti USA imperialism narrative which advocates defunding the police.

In addition the co-founder of BLM in America called all white people “the devil” and said there is something wrong with their generics.

People should have the right to disagree with a tactic like “taking the knee” without being tarnished as a racist. If fans were throwing bananas or making monkey noises, then of course they are racist. But Millwall fans simply booed and its time now to remove this BLM tactic from the game and highlight the “Kick It Out” campaign.

You can be an antiracist and NOT support the Black Lives Matter outfit, because is a politically aligned movement…

James Marlow is a news broadcast commentator and communications trainer Email: James@TheCommunicationBureau. com Twitter: @James_J_Marlow

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Traditional Doughnuts These are traditional Chanukah doughnuts that are served during the Chaunkah festivities. Flavour with cinnamon, mixed spice, vanilla extract or even lemon zest to ring the changes.

Another delicious recipe for Chanukah from Denise Phillips For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com

Preparation Time: 10 minutes plus 1 hour 15 minutes rising time Cooking Time 20 minutes Makes: 12 Ingredients 1 tablespoon yeast – 1 sachet 4 tablespoons caster sugar 100ml milk / soya milk, warmed 250g strong white flour, plus extra for dusting ¼ teaspoon salt 50g butter/ margarine melted 1 egg, beaten ~ 300ml vegetable oil, for deep-frying Filling: Jam of your choice Dust in cinnamon sugar ~ if desired Method 1. Mix the yeast with half a teaspoon of the sugar and two tablespoons of the warm milk.

2. Place in a warm place to rest for 5 minutes, or until frothy.

3. Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl.

4. Stir in one tablespoon of the sugar and keep the rest for dusting when cooked.

5. Make a well in the flour and pour in the yeast mix, the rest of the milk,

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the melted butter and the egg. Combine using a mixer to make a dough and then cover the bowl and leave to stand for 45 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.

6. Divide into 12 balls (approx. 45g each) and place in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

7. Heat the oil in a deep pan until it reaches 190C/375F, or a cube of bread dropped in sizzles and turns golden in 30 seconds.

8. Gently lower the dough balls one at a time into the hot oil, in batches of two or three, and fry for 3-5 minutes or until golden-brown, and then carefully turn over.

9. Remove from the hot oil with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.

10. Roll the hot doughnuts in the remaining sugar.

11. Make a small slit in the donut and fill using a special syringe or piping bag with fine nozzle with jam.

Best enjoyed on the day made.

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From the front line…

BY JACQUELINE CURZON GCSE students in England will be told their exam topics in advance and then marked more generously under plans announced recently by Gavin Williams. He has also indicated that students who have had lessons disrupted by the virus could get grades with asterisks, to encourage higher education colleges to ‘look kindly’ on these applicants. Christopher Hope reported in The Telegraph [Sunday 29th November] that universities are already reducing entry requirements for courses for next year, but this recent news on GCSEs will end the speculation that exams in England would be cancelled altogether. Under Jacqueline Curzon the plan by the DfE exam marking will be more generous to allow for PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY the 2020 disruption to schooling. In Scotland however, a decision has just been made to cancel next year’s Higher and Advanced Highers exams. Scottish Education Secretary John Swinney said the decision was based on the disruption that covid has caused to the education system, rather than safety concerns, despite the Scottish government hinted he will make a comeback in 2024. All previously saying a final decision on in all, it’s going to be a tough call whether I whether the exams would go ahead would will ever make it over there for treatment or not be taken until the middle of February. respite, given the high incidence rate and This announcement means that pupils’ final restrictions. Elsewhere, Russia has launched grades will be based on the judgement of its cutesy named vaccination program their teachers which will doubtless spark a Sputnik V - to its 145 million residents. It has new furore over grade inflation, and hang been made compulsory, which means there over subsequent exam candidates like an will be no opting out for Putin’s people and award of damocles. hearing that doctors are being threatened It must be a dreadful time for the family with dismissal if they refuse to accept it of Esther Dingle, who is still missing in the Pyrenees, two weeks into her disappearance. themselves, is also of concern. At home, it’s disappointing to hear that Sir Keir Starmer With recent dreadful winter weather, it is has gone back into isolation following a looking unlikely that she may have survived member of his team testing positive with out in the elements, if indeed she might covid, but we must commend Starmer on still be alive. Theories of abduction have following the rules, as did his fellow opposibeen swiftly rejected as French and Spanish tion leader. London has become the second officers say there would be nowhere to hide worst region of the UK to be affected by her. Our hearts go out to her family. covid, with a positive testing rating of 169 In France a 73 year old woman with per 100,000 people, which is likely to push dementia was fined €166 for writing the the capital into a potential tier 3. Images of a wrong date on a form, for leaving her home densely packed city over the past weekend, during lockdown. Despite her inability with shoppers and revellers selfishly not to speak clearly when stopped by police, observing any kind of distancing, will not prosecutors have since refused to waive the have proven popular with the powers at fine. Oh boy, are we becoming a zealous PHE. With Sir Patrick Valence now hinting enforcement world! Over in the USA it is at a further year of ‘masque’ - erading, even worrying to hear most of California has gone back into lockdown, with more than 30 with the feted vaccine, it’s looking like a bleak midwinter for us all, with frosty politics million residents instructed to wear masks and moaning tiers, irrespective of the snow and stay separate from other households. forecast.

Gavin Newsom, the Governor, issued these Readers will know that I have a fascination guidelines after the US announced its infection cases had reached 14.5 million, and for travel whether it be the Trans Siberian Exdeaths had reached 280,000 deaths. Corona- press, the Orient Express or - if I were really virus is now the leading cause of death in the lucky - the Royal Train. It’s refreshing to see country, and it is no surprise that Joe Biden William and Kate following in Her Majesty’s has asked Americans to wear a mask for the train steps by making a stylish three day journey to pay tribute to those who have worked first 100 days of his forthcoming Presidency. to safeguard our nation. Beginning last SunQuite a contrast to his predecessor who was day they will have travelled 1250 miles across rather sceptical over the use of masks, but the UK, taking in stops in England, Scotland readers should stay cheerful as Trump has

and Wales. The Duke and Duchess were serenaded by the singer Shakin’ Stevens (72) as they boarded the train at Euston Station. All in all it was quite a contrast to the huge spending trip which his brother Harry took before settling down to a Hollywood lifestyle.

Kensington Palace said the Duke and Duchess would “pass on their sincere thanks and gratitude on behalf of the nation to those who made a sacrifice to keep others safe.” Sadly the First Minister of Scotland has soured the well-intended efforts of the royal couple, with Sturgeon emphasising her restrictions on travelling across the border. One would have presumed the Cambridge’s itinerary would fit within the category of ‘reasonable excuse.’ After all, if the Royals don’t qualify under that criteria, who else could, apart from Ms Sturgeon? It seems to once again be a petty battle for power, this time between the anti-union and increasingly anti-royal ‘Queen of Scots,’ and the nation’s beloved members of the Royal Family. Irrespective of whether the Cambridge’s now collect a £60 fine for flouting Nicola’s travel ban, I know which leader I’m in support of…. Anyhow, the Royal Train, consisting of nine carriages is usually only ever used by the Queen and Prince of Wales, and is the only private, non-commercial train service catering to one family still in operation in the UK. Bizarrely the train runs on cooking oil thanks to the Prince’s passion for the environment, while the Queen is said to have described it as one of the few places she can relax in ‘total privacy.’ For the rest of us mortals privacy is found in the ‘little small room,’ but I suppose to a Queen any room in this train is - by definition - a small room.

From rooms to booms now: Meteorologists have reported an unusual event up in Scotland where, instead of referring to thunderstorms or snow storms, they’ve been reporting something known as thunder snow. Scottish residents over the past weekend had reported to police the sounds of claps of thunder accompanied by heavy snow storms, stating the phenomena was rather like a sonic boom. This is a little at odds with our updated news which hints that by the end of the century there will be no more wintry weather in the UK, largely due to global warming. So let it snow, chaps and make the most of your snowmen, sledging and winter wardrobe right now, for in the future it may be consigned to an indoor dressing-up contest. There was a photograph of Boris Johnson in this week’s news sporting a seasonal jumper with the words, ‘Tis the season to be jolly careful.’ The cheery outfit was being modelled on a waxwork figure of the Prime Minister for Madame Tussaud’s Save the Children’s christmas Jumper Day, but at least Boris had a tidy hairstyle to accompany his seasonal, sartorial elegance. If BoJo had any further comment on the attire, it would probably be Bah, Humbug!

I was impressed with news of a new

It's great to see William and Kate bringing cheer and goodwill to the nation.

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kitchen robot which can cook for you from scratch, clean up afterwards and do your dishes. The robot - invented by Russian mathematician and scientist Mark Oleynik of Moley Robotics - promises to make restaurant standard meals and has been developed with the help of Tim Anderson, winner of the 2011 series of Masterchef.

The only snag is that this robot will cost you a tidy £250,000, which is roughly the cost of an average house in Britain. However at its launch in Dubai, Oleynik said they have already had serious interest from more than 1000 potential customers in hotels, restaurants and catering companies. The robot accumulates human knowledge, recording recipes precisely. Wow! I think employing a cordon-bleu chef full time would still leave you with some small change to go out for dinner, occasionally.

Some months back I reported on the Boodles diamond heist, where jewels were exchanged for pebbles. An update on this is that Lulu Lakatos (59) an Armenian born French National has now been accused of being part of the gang pulling off the UK’s single biggest theft. Seven (!) boxes of diamonds were swapped for boxes of worthless pebbles back in March 2016. Lakatos appeared at Westminster magistrates court via video link, charged with conspiracy to steal after she acted as a gemologist for Russian buyers. Her trial will recommence in January at Southwark Crown Court, but it remains to be seen if [four years later] Diamonds were Forever.

Instead of rounding off with an interesting obituary this week, I flag up a story of youthful achievement. A teenage scientist whose inventions include an app which tackles cyber bullying has been named Time Magazine’s first ‘Kid of the Year.’ Gitanjali Rao (15) was one of 5000 nominees considered for the award, inspired by the magazine who had named 16-year-old environmentalist Greta Thunberg its Person of the Year in 2019. The Colorado teenagers fascination with science began when an uncle gave her a chemistry set when she was four years old, and she has devised a phone app and browser extension known as KINDLY which uses artificial intelligence to scan messages before they are sent, which warns people they could be accused of bullying. She was previously named America’s Top Young Scientist of 2017 by the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge with a device to detect lead in water faster than any other current techniques. She is also the grand-prize winner of a world-wide Paradigm challenge. Gitanjali has been a Davidson Young Scholar since 2012, and has received several scholarships and awards for achievements in science, arts and community service. When she grows up, Gitanjali aspires to study genetics and epidemiology in MIT. Good job, Gitanjali!!

Love Jacqueline x To follow Jacqueline’s journey blog {Yocheved bas Sara} please go to https://whenallissaidanddone.home.blog

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Jewish Care Chanukah Appeal brings light to the community Jewish Care brings light to Leslie Barnett who receives Jewish Care’s Meals on Wheels

Jewish Care has launched a Chanukah appeal, to help fund the extra support for older people in our community who are relying on the organisation even more heavily, since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

The appeal focuses on the way the charity is bringing light to many vulnerable people, especially through its Meals on Wheels service, which is a lifeline to many.

Since March, the organisation’s chefs have been making more than double the amount of meals for vulnerable older people in the community. The meals are delivered by the dedicated volunteers, who with the delicious hot and frozen, kosher meals, bring relief from social isolation and light to those who rely on the charity.

However, the Meals on Wheels service receives no government funding and neither does the Jewish Care Direct Helpline, which has received 40% calls since lockdown began. Many of those people who call the Helpline are then referred to the Jewish Care Social Work and Community Support Team who provide more support.

This service relies solely on the generosity of

our community.

Many people, like Leslie Barnett, 95, featured in the appeal, live on their own and have hardly left their homes since lockdown began and find cooking for themselves difficult, so are reliant on the hot three-course, kosher Meals on Wheels to eat well each day.

Leslie has lived on his own since his late wife, Angela, sadly passed away. He says, “I’m not used to being stuck at home on my own. Especially not for this long. Usually I go to the Jewish Care community centre at least once every week to see my friends. But I’m no spring chicken and my health isn’t what it was. So, I have to shelter at home to keep myself safe.

“Angela and I always loved to dance, and I’ve managed to keep up my dancing ever since. But, of course being stuck at home means I can’t do that. I found myself staring at the same four walls every day. I’ve never been much of a cook, though Angela used to let me do the vegetables sometimes if she was going to be late back from work. But that was years ago, and most of the time, all

The appeal focuses on the way the charity is bringing light to many vulnerable people, especially through its Meals on Wheels service… that is in my fridge are some empty boxes and a duster to clean it with.”

The volunteer delivery drivers check in with clients and have a socially distanced chat. As well as delivering a nutritious meal, they also give older people living at home the opportunity to see another person and help alleviate social isolation.

Leslie says, “Sadly, Angela and I were not blessed with children, so I don’t have any family of my own nearby.”

Jewish Care chefs have made 33,000 meals since the start of the pandemic, which have been delivered by the amazing Jewish Care volunteers to clients. This Chanukah, there will of course be latkes sent

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with the meals too.

Daniel Carmel-Brown, Jewish Care’s Chief Executive says, “We have sent out more than 33,000 hot and frozen Kosher meals since the start of the pandemic and in the same period, our Jewish Care Direct Helpline has also received 40% more enquiries for assistance than we would normally expect. So, we know the need for the unique help we provide for the entire Jewish community in London and the South East is growing all the time.

“But that help comes at a cost. Our Meals on Wheels service and Jewish Care Direct Helpline receives no government funding.

We need to raise £5 million on top of the £16 million we already need to raise just to continue to provide care and support to the 10,000 lives we touch.

“With almost all of our fundraising events cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic, we are depending more than ever on the generosity of supporters like you. So please make a gift this Chanukah and help continue to bring light into the lives of more people like Leslie.”

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Chanukah riddles…

The distinguished rav of Ramat Elchanan, Bnei Brak, Rabbi Yitzchak Zilberstein, presents a number of riddles relating to Chanukah, which we are proud to share with our dear readers!

When is a latke more than a latke?

When it brings care and company.

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TWO PEOPLE LIGHT A MENORAH, WITH THE SAME OIL AND WICKS. ONE HAS TRANSGRESSED A SIN, THE OTHER HAS FULFILLED A MITZVAH! The Talmud teaches that oils and wicks which are prohibited for use on Shabbat are valid for Chanuka. This is true even of Friday night in Chanuka, for the entire reason to ban them regarding Shabbat is that one may tilt them and transgress a Torah prohibition, but on Chanuka there is no such concern as one may not benefit from the lights.

However, Rama adds that if one uses more than what is necessary for the Chanuka candles (say he pours in three hours

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PRE-CHANUKAH SUPPLEMENT worth of oil - possibly less) then it will be forbidden to use that oil on Friday night Chanuka as the additional oil is forbidden to use.

Therefore, if one person used these (usually) prohibited oils or wicks and used the exact amount he’d be doing a Mitzvah, whereas his friend who adds more than needed will be committing a sin!

HOW IS IT POSSIBLE TO HAVE A CANDLE THAT IS FORBIDDEN FOR USE AS THE “SHAMASH” BUT PERMITTED AS A CHANUKA CANDLE?

One answer is if a heretic or an idol worshipper donate candles to a shul they may not be used, similar to an offering in the Beit Hamikdash. This will only apply to candles that one can benefit from in the shul. Chanuka candles though, one can not benefit from and so if one of the aforementioned would donate candles to a shul it would be permissible for use.

Another answer is the wicks and oils we mentioned in the first question above. On Shabbat, one can use them for the main chanuka candles, for one can’t benefit from them and therefore

won’t come to tilt them. However, for the Shamash, it is forbidden to use these wicks and oils on Shabbat.

IT IS WELL-KNOWN THAT ONE SHOULD USE EDIBLE OIL FOR CHANUKA LIGHTS. WHERE WOULD IT BE BETTER TO USE OIL THAT IS NOT EDIBLE? If one leaves food under a bed one should not eat it. If so, the Kaf Ha’Chaim adds that one should also not use these for a mitzvah such as Shabbat or chanuka candles. Therefore, if one leaves

two oils under a bed, one is usually fit for consumption and the other inedible.

One should use the oil that was never fit for human consumption as this is not harmed by being left under the bed. The edible oil left under a bed must not be used.

(Obviously, we are referring to cases where there is no other option.)

Rav Zilberstein does point out however, that his revered father in law Rav Elyashiv zt”l held that if there’s no choice one may use the oil left under a bed even edible oil.

This Chanukah, will you bring light into the lives of isolated people like Leslie?

Leslie has been self-isolating since the first lockdown began.

This Chanukah thousands of Meals on Wheels will be delivered to Jewish men and women who rely on them, just like Leslie.

But it isn’t just the hot, Kosher food that they rely on, by staying indoors they miss the company too. That’s why our delivery drivers always go out of their way to chat to clients when they bring their food – in a socially distanced way of course.

The number of Meals on Wheels we have to produce has more than doubled since March and we receive no government support to provide this vital service.

So please make a gift to Jewish Care this Chanukah and help to bring more light into the lives of people like Leslie.

To make your gift, please call 020 8922 2600, or visit jewishcare.org/donate Leslie receiving Meals on Wheels from volunteer, Leon.

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Chai is supporting cancer patients despite Covid challenges

BY DAVID SAFFER The coronavirus pandemic has hit every sector of society. Among industries badly affected have been charities who rely on communal donations to provide a plethora of essential services.

Chai Cancer Care has been at the heart of the Jewish community for three decades supporting patients, family and friends to manage the impact of a cancer diagnosis.

Providing an extensive range of specialised tailor-made support services at 11 centres across the UK that includes counselling, complementary and physical therapies to individuals, couples, families, teens and children, professionally trained staff work in partnership with the NHS, social services, schools, Jewish voluntary agencies, community groups, hospitals and hospices.

A rehabilitation, palliative care service is also been part of a threeway collaboration with the Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

The flagship centre is based in Hendon, north west London followed by Manchester.

“We have clients that are very anxious because they have had treatment stopped. Hospitals say they will be in touch but it has built up a lot of anxiety.”

Lisa Steele, Chai CEO

So, what is it that makes this charity so special?

“When Chai was established 30 years ago, cancer was a word that people did not use,” said Lisa Steele chief executive. “We use the big ‘C’ from ‘Care’ to stop the taboo so people can talk about cancer, to make it more acceptable.

We support over 3,000 patients and family members, 60% of clients are cancer patients, 40% family members. We support all different kinds of cancer. Our clients are aged from three years up to 100. We support children who have cancer with therapies but also support children affected when a parent has cancer.”

Sadly, services have been hit since Covid-19 struck. It has been a devasting blow for Chai who has over 20 members of staff in addition to 90 sessional therapists and counsellors on the

books. Many therapists have been unable to work due to government guidelines. So, how have the organisation responded to the global pandemic?

“We have not been able to go into people’s homes, especially in the raised tier,” Ms Steele explained. “When things are better we hope to do complementary therapies like massage, reflexology and acupuncture.

We have a whole range of therapies that are not a luxury, they are a necessity for people going through treatment, as it helps with fatigue and pain management.

“We have not been able offer these since March but have done remote counselling.

Clients can see a counsellor and it does make a difference. We’ve run Pilates, yoga, meditation, mindfulness and groups Zoom sessions. We are trying everything to support clients as they are vulnerable.”

She added, “It’s been very challenging.

When we were in lockdown, we worked remotely. Staff are back in the office, so we are all together. The sad thing however is there have been very difficult stories. People have been contacting us at a late stage, they have not gone to a doctor early, it’s been very difficult and I think there is going to be a surge of clients when the backlog easies.

“People have been frightened to visit a GP when they notice symptoms. People are saying more will die from cancer than Covid and that is a really big concern to us, but we will support everyone.”

How did Chai respond when the initial Covid lockdown occurred?

Chai’s CEO recalled, “We reacted very quickly, we’d been planning before the lockdown and made sure client service managers and staff had laptops so were able to carry on services from home. We continued to support clients unless they were just having complementary therapy.

Some clients are now also having counselling, especially if they were isolated at home.

“We have clients that are very anxious because they have had treatment stopped.

Hospitals say they will be in touch but it has built up a lot of anxiety. Counselling has multiplied, so we have taken on more counsellors to cope with this need.”

Due to the pandemic services have changed in recent months.

“There has been a lot in the news about mental health and our clients’ mental health has been affected because of cancelled appointments, delayed treatment and anxiety,” Ms Steele explained.

“When a client goes to hospital or GP surgery they are on their own. They cannot take a family member. We have not experienced this before. Normally, a loved one is there encouraging, helping after an anaesthetic or

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chemotherapy or supporting with results.

Being on your own is very hard.”

Aside from services, there has also been a major impact in terms of donations.

“Donations have dropped by 40% so it’s a huge challenge,” said Ms Steele. “There are no major events, people are not doing challenges such as the marathon. When people had a birthday or a simcha we had donations but that has also been hit. Covid has had a massive impact on us and it is a big concern.

“We have fundraised online and are looking at different campaigns. Obviously, we can’t have a traditional fundraising dinner but we still need to raise funds. So, we are thinking outside the box. We’ve held a cookery demonstration and smaller events that are raising funds. We had our traditional Rosh Hashonah gift fair outside in our car park which was amazing. It was a lovely sunny day so somebody was looking down on us.”

She added, “Events we have done have helped but it is obviously a concern going forward, how we will meet a surge of appointments for clients who have not been to a GP and not been referred yet.”

So, will services be curtailed due to the pandemic?

“I hope not, it’s really important for us to support everyone,” Ms Stelle noted. “With complementary therapies our outgoings have gone down but counselling has gone up. We need to be prepared to meet a need, that has always been our strapline.

We support anyone that turns to us. There is no waiting list. If somebody comes to us, we set them up with counselling next week. People don’t have the luxury of time when they have been diagnosed with cancer. They need support now, we can’t say we will find someone for you in a month. It’s too late by then.

“We are supported by the community, we don’t have government funding. There are a lot of worthwhile charities so we look at what our challenges are and where we are needed.”

Looking ahead, what is the outlook for Chai?

“We are operating though our doors are not open, that is a really important message,” Ms Steele said. “We know that next year, and I’ve spoken to other cancer charities, there will be a big impact due to treatments being cancelled. We must be prepared for this situation. We are doing as much as we can but people must go to GPs, please don’t be frightened. If anyone is concerned about something then you must contact your GP.” Details: chaicancercare.org

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Jewish Studies is fun and educational at Sinai

Sinai celebrates Chanukah after miraculous term

BY DAVID SAFFER Sinai Jewish Primary School pupils will celebrate Chanukah today in what has been a quite extraordinary term during the coronavirus pandemic.

Year groups will recall the age-old story of the menorah miraculously burning for eight days. You can’t compare the days of Judah the Maccabee to now but the way schools have responded to unprecedented times to keep children safe whilst learning has in its own way also been miraculous.

Sinai, led by headteacher Juliette

Lipshaw have pulled out every stop to ensure school life is as normal as possible for pupils.

When Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the initial lockdown back to March 2020, Mrs Lipshaw had one aim, which is still clear to her all these months on.

“My resounding thought from the start was that I had to protect the children, staff and prevent infection spread,” she recalled.

“At all times that was the basis of every decision I made. Obviously, we had to follow the government guidance, which was

changing rapidly. But we were in a position that as soon as I was legally allowed to open we did at the beginning of June.”

Some 200 youngsters in nursery, reception, years one, six along with many from year five attended the campus. And the knowledge gained by opening during the summer months guided Sinai’s head on the way ahead for September.

Mrs Lipshaw noted, “Going from a school based on a half week model for the children to over 750 pupils, I had to make sure everything that had worked well could be replicated. Having three acres of

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land was an enormous help as it meant we could really spread ourselves out.

The movement of children and staff was crucial to make sure we weren’t spreading infection.

“Everything was based around bubbles that we call ‘huddles’, because I like the term! The children are in ‘huddle’ year groups. We have been massively helped by the layout of the school because each year group has its own ‘hub’. It meant we could create a ‘huddle’ system.

“We could not have class ‘huddles’ because I would not have been able to use specialist teachers. I needed to be able to create year group ‘huddles’, so each year group could have a Jewish Studies teacher to get a full quota of enriched Jewish Studies education.”

The ‘huddle’ system per year group includes 90 children with class teachers, teaching assistants and a Jewish Studies teacher.

“Children do everything in a ‘huddle’,” explained Mrs Lipshaw. “They learn in classes, have break time and lunch in their ‘huddle’. They are only ever with their own ‘huddle’. That is a challenge in a three-form entry primary school but because of the school layout we were able to achieve it and managed to put rotas is place.

Everything is meticulously timetabled, no ‘huddle’ crosses over during a break.”

The ‘huddle’ system also works because the school has four playgrounds (nursery, reception, key stage 1 and 2). The luxury of space has helped Sinai be Covid-secure.

Mrs Lipshaw explained, “Within the building we have a year group ‘hub’, and in each ‘hub’, children have three classrooms, a Jewish Studies classroom and resources area. So, they are in a very nurtured, enclosed space.

“With the exception of desks facing forward (pupils don’t sit in groups anymore) you would not know there is necessarily a pandemic when you walk into a resource area. For the children, we want it to feel as normal as possible in un-normal times.

But we have been very robust, we have had no Covid cases of children or staff, because we have been really vigilant.”

So, how does the school handle PPE? “Within a ‘huddle’, teachers don’t wear PPE, but the moment they step out of their ‘huddle’ they wear PPE,” noted Mrs Lipshaw. “When pupils are in a classroom with a teacher its their ‘family’ unit and they maintain the ‘huddle’ system.

“All children in year one upwards are facing forward sitting in rows. In younger years, normally they sit in groups but government advice was for children to face forward. Teachers are able to keep a distance although they are very interactive and involved with the children. If they do close up work to say hear a child read, even in their own ‘huddle’, they wear PPE.” Sinai has invested heavily in PPE. A fundraising campaign in June aided preparations for Covid and staff have access to the full range. There are no visitors to school with the exception of an educational psychologist who wear full PPE and fill out a health declaration.

Mrs Lipshaw visits every classroom daily,

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Youngsters enjoying French

wearing PPE as she is crossing ‘huddles’.

“I believe in being a very involved leader, I stand by the door and talk to the children,” she explained. “I’m not inside the classroom but pupils can turn and face me so I am engaged with them. I also engage with the children through ‘live’ assemblies.

All my senior leaders do that. We are in our offices with webcams and go ‘live’ into classrooms for an interactive assembly, which is really important as it keeps our engagement with the children.”

During lunchtimes, children enjoy a healthy and hot meal in a safe environment. Catering staff wear PPE and have had appropriate training.

“When we came back in September, I wanted to reopen the dining room but feeding that volume of people is not easy so we built screens around serving hatches so they would be Covid-secure,” recalled Mrs Lipshaw. “The lunch hall is divided with screens so children are separated in ‘huddles’. Lunchtime is a longer process but it means we can give all of the children a hot meal.”

She added, “The logistics in bringing a school back during a pandemic has been huge as you want children to have the correct allocation of teaching time. We want them to have a full, rich and diverse curriculum but at the same time keep them safe.

“Everything is meticulously timetabled.

We want school to feel normal, we know the world is not normal at the moment but we want children to continue learning and embracing their Judaism and love of learning. If visitors were able to observe, not that they can, they would be amazed.

We are in a ‘new’ normal of exciting and engaged learning. But I am not shy about being strict about being Covid-secure.

Parents have respected that. They wear face masks when collecting children, apart from those that are exempt, because we are a heavily populated school. There is a one-way system in the playground, which parents follow and that has worked really well.”

With so much change and a possibility of change at any stage communications has been vital.

“The logistics in bringing a school back during a pandemic has been huge as you want children to have the correct allocation of teaching time. We want them to have a full, rich and diverse curriculum but at the same time keep them safe.”

Sinai headteacher Mrs Juliette Lipshaw

“We want parents to be sure they know how to keep secure,” Mrs Lipshaw said.

“I’ve communicated with parents from day one when the first cases were coming out. In March, we started a Shabbat message to parents which summed up the week. We offered guidance and hopefully helpful support for families. I’ve continued that and will continue to do so.”

She added, “Parents have been really supportive. We are so happy children are back and they know that we are doing everything that we can. It’s about prevention and protection of the children and staff, and making sure life is as normal and enjoyable as it can be. We retain a passion and enthusiasm for learning while keeping the school Covid-secure.

It’s been an interesting challenge, not that we are enjoying the pandemic, but we are determined to offer learning opportunities to the children.”

IS THERE ANYTHING SINAI CAN’T OFFER PUPILS IN THESE DEMANDING TIMES?

“We are not able to go swimming or take part in tournaments, which is frustrating for my PE coach especially because we were top of the league in Brent,” noted Mrs Lipshaw. “We have great teams in all sorts of sporting events that we pride ourselves on but we can’t cross with other schools.

“There are also no school trips, we can’t do anything that is not within the confines of our building.”

She added, “During lockdown, we encouraged children to take virtual tours of museums. It’s important to be creative, to make learning fun and engaging as we were under no illusions that it was hard for children working from home.

“We try to make learning engaging in a classroom and around the school and because we cannot go out for sport we hold PE lessons in school. We’ve introduced fitness challenges during the day so there is a break in learning. It’s about being creative. Children have a mini-break to keep their minds and bodies active. We’ve made sure there is plenty to do in school.”

Wellbeing is an important issue at Sinai and the school has been on top of this situation regarding the pandemic.

Mrs Lipshaw explained, “We discuss with children about maintaining a distance, keeping safe and washing hands during the day in an appropriate way. We’ve done lots of mindfulness and wellbeing activities but the most important thing is for children to think school is a safe, normal place for learning and enjoying.

“But we are not hiding the pandemic.

We have an in-school counsellor so any child we are concerned about we refer

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them. She’s brilliant and works with families, children, in fact anyone we are concerned about. There is also a senior member of staff on my leadership team who is a well-being leader. She works with staff or children we feel has been affected by the pandemic. We are very mindful and encourage parents to be open with us if they think children are concerned.”

Overall, Mrs Lipshaw is enormously proud of what pupils have achieved.

She noted, “Their attitude has been fantastic from the day they walked in back in June and then September. All of the children, without exception, have impressed me with their attitude to learning.

Their joy at being back in school is what has struck me the most, how happy they were to be back learning again.”

As for her staff, Sinai’s head was full of praise.

“My staff have been brilliant,” she said.

“They have embraced everything, followed guidance at all times and reaped the rewards because the children are making great progress. And it’s been joyful in what has been a really challenging time. When we are inside our gates, it is a really happy place to learn and work.

My aim has always been to protect and prevent but most importantly to have children enjoy learning and staff happy to work here. That has been crucial.”

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A year in perspective In June last year, I attended a family simcha in New York.

I spent the entire journey back Davening for my sister who was very ill, for her lovely children and for her husband.

A few weeks after my return, Chavi’s condition became critical. We did all we could for her, spending much time and effort trying to help her and support her family through those hard weeks.

The situation was not looking good; Chavi’s condition just kept getting worse.

We were all hoping it would improve but it was not to be.

On Shabbos morning, the 3rd of Tamuz, Chavi peacefully returned her soul to our Creator.

Emotions were flying high, and after sorting out the Levaya and setting up the Shiva in my sister Elisheva’s house, life had to carry on. During the Shiva, Elisheva and I had to attend a big meeting with social Services. This was hard for us but like always, we found the strength to do it and we felt the hand of Hashem there with us.

The weeks and months that followed, were challenging and very stressful. Together with Elisheva, I spent many hours both during the day and night, looking after and supporting the children and their caring father, trying to get life to be as normal as possible.

Unfortunately, some people who had not been involved with the family before, thought they could override all our hard work. Till today, it hurts me a lot that they could not see the damage they did and think they can still continue, as if nothing ever happened.

B”H it is now a year later and her family are doing well. Thank you, Hashem, for giving us the inner strength that allowed us to do all we did to help.

The Eibishter tests us and we have to come out of it being stronger. I kept reminding myself, how Avrohom Avinu went through ten tests and still continued spreading Yiddishkeit.

After Sukkos, I noticed a lump on the side of my throat. I was sent to hospital for various, Biopsies, MRI and ultrasound tests.

In the middle of all these tests, B”H with big Chessed from the Ribono Shel Olam, we still managed to run winter camp with outstanding success.

After couple of retests, I met the consultant at the hospital. He reminded me that there was a 1% chance of such lumps being Cancer. Unfortunately, mine was included in the 1%.

What a shock. It was with tears in my eyes, that I accepted yet another big test, deep down though, I was broken, worried and upset, as I had no idea what the next 6 months would be bringing me, my wife and family.

I went from times of thinking it will all be good, to feeling very low.

Feeling lost, I turned to my Rov who found me the name of a consultant and even accompanied me to an appointment.

After the Doctor checked me over and read my notes, he gave us advice of which hospital and which Doctor I need to be under.

I had no idea on how to achieve this; however, Hashem was there for me every step of the way. A friend of mine told me to call Achainu Cancer Support. I called him Wednesday afternoon; within 10 minutes he returned my call. He told me not to worry, Acheinu would help and they would be taking me to see a professor in the city the next day. Thursday afternoon, I went to meet the professor. He looked me over and explained the steps I needed to take in order to be under him at the UCLH. It was all too much for me B”H ACS told me to leave it to them; they would sort everything out for me. One of the steps to take was to see a dentist who would fill in the relevant paperwork needed for me to transfer from the Homerton hospital to the UCLH. This was done the next morning.

I was starting to trust ACS and things were moving faster. I was entrusted to the care of a volunteer.

I have become a close friend with an ACS volunteer and learnt so much from him. He was sent by the Eibeshter, to help me and support me.

I write this with tears in my eyes, as

thinking back I was lost and for dear wife, children and myself and to having an ACS volunteer was a real lifesaver.

The ACS volunteer’s calm approach helps you to get through any situation.

My dear sister Elisheva, despite having lost two sisters, running her large family and caring for her neighbours - our parents, has been there for us all the way, always being thoughtful and there with a smile.

After yet further tests and CT scans, I met the full team of Doctors that would care for me. I was nervous and still feeling lost.

An ACS volunteer and my wife, joined me at an appointment with The doctor in the UCLH to hear the plan for having the operation and the treatment plan for after.

I was scared; I had never had an operation. The Doctor wanted to book me in for Friday Eruv Shabbos Zochor, I tried to explain that there is no way I could miss a special holiday like Purim. I could not imagine spending Purim in hospital and asked them to change it for a week before.

They could not commit to that but an ACS volunteer told me not to worry, he would sort it out. With the help of Hashem we will get there.

The next week I went to Daven at the Kever of Reb Shayele in Kerestir.

At Reb Shayele’s Kever, I davened and begged, to please help me with this situation.

It was Monday morning; I was sitting in my office when the phone rang. It was a

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call from the hospital saying they had a slot that week Friday if I would like it. I accepted without a thought. It was 2 weeks before Purim.

B”H Thursday evening, the day before my surgery, was Chavi’s son’s Bar Mitzvah. We had helped organise the Bar Mitzvah so I really did not want to miss it.

Friday night the family were having the Seuda at our home, Ruchama had work so hard to make it special and now I was not going to be there. It was hard. We decided however hard it would be, we would carry on with the Bar Mitzvah even though I would not be home for Shabbos.

B”H on Wednesday my brother offered to fly in to be here as a support for us all.

Thursday night we had a most beautiful Seudas Bar Mitzvah.

Friday morning an ACS volunteer together with my brother accompanied me to hospital. After some time, an ACS volunteer asked what is happening, only for us to learn there was a misunderstanding; I was meant to be on the afternoon list. So we went back home, which was hard but also nice, as I got to bench my dear children as I do every Friday evening.

Later on, we went back to the hospital and was soon called in to prepare for the operation. As the day was getting on and Shabbos was coming I was beginning to get emotional, knowing soon at home, all the family would be enjoying the Bar Mitzvah and I had left Ruchama and the children at

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SUPPLEMENT 31

PRE-CHANUKAH SUPPLEMENT home. an ACS volunteer B”H arranged for my brother to have a flat near the hospital for the night, and that a friendly face could be there for me when I wake. At 3.30pm, I was finally called down to the theatre. An ACS volunteer and my brother accompanied me as far as they could. I then had to wait in another waiting room myself. I said Mizmor Lsodo a few times and when a nurse came to get me I was still saying Mizmor Lsodo. The next thing I remember, was my name was being called and I was told it completed.

I was taken to ICU and suddenly my brother was there as well. I asked him if it was Friday night. He said yes, I remember telling him we have to sing Zemiros. And in ICU, I sang the Friday night Zemiros. He then wished me a gut Shabbos and went to the flat. I spent the night crying as I was missing Shabbos at home.

Shabbos morning at around 4.30am my brother turned up to wish me a good Shabbos and tell me he was now walking back home to report to everyone that B”H my operation was successful.

We truly appreciate the effort and thought my brother put into supporting us, leaving his family for Shabbos, making the hours easier to cope with, both for me, in the hospital and for those at home.

Later on in the morning, I told the nurse I had to get out of bed, which I did. To feel more like Shabbos, I put the Challah, which

Ruchama had thoughtfully sent with me, on the table. I Davened and sat there thinking it’s Shabbos now I can’t be upset. So I read the Shabbos Beshabato and made the best I could out of Shabbos.

Shabbos afternoon I had visitors walk out to me which made my Shabbos.

B”H I was then moved out of ICU to a ward. Later on, Ruchama and Elisheva came to visit me. I felt extra close with Hashem.

I spent the next few days doing the best I could to recover and looking forward to going home. I was missing the children a lot. I remember speaking on the phone to my child; all she wanted was for Tutty to come home.

That week, I had many visitors, I think Ruchama made 18 trips to and from the hospital, using cars generously sponsored

by ACS. I also had many moments where I was just talking to Hashem and asking him to give me the strength and recover.

Some visitors really stood out and I feel touched by their efforts. Especially a chasan who came in the day before his wedding.

Each day I would daven, that I would be strong enough to go home. On Thursday B”H I got discharged and Ruchama came to help me and bring me home. I called an ACS volunteer and told him, he said that he would meet us downstairs and drive us home.

B”H I finally got home and after giving

all my children a hug, I fell asleep and slept though the evening. I had been focusing on getting home and not on how weak I was.

B”H stage one was over, I now had to recover from the surgery and be strong enough to start treatment.

I was at home and recovering from the operation and building up to Purim and the big Purim party at our home. Ruchama was doing all she could to make this Purim extra special and the build-up was helping me feel a bit stronger every day. Purim night at our house was something special.

I found the strength to get up and told of how I had promised at Reb Shayele, that if I would be home for Purim, I would make a big Purim Party. It was a very emotional time.

As I finished, the boys all burst out into song, singing Reb Shayele Ben Reb Moshe.

Purim evening was beautiful, my heart went out to Ruchama, for all the effort and work she had put into making it be the success that it was. Purim Day, I forced myself to find the little energy I had left, to take the chidren around to deliver their Mishloach Monos, I wanted to keep it as near as possible to how it would normally be for them.

Later on in the day, I thought I would have a rest before we hosted the Purim Seuda.

The week after Purim, I had a big appointment regarding the plan for my treatment, an ACS volunteer from ACS and Ruchama came with me. At the appointment, we met

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my consultant and the team who spoke about the treatment and what to expect.

The following week, I had my pre-treatment appointment; again, it was an ACS volunteer that came with me. This was a very long appointment, it was very scary and hard for me. They moulded a mask on my head and upper body. I remember going home feeling very down but Ruchama and the children were there to cheer me up.

Covid 19 was in the air. We pulled the children out of school to prevent any cause of infection as I was very high risk and with therapy pending, I needed to stay as well as I could.

Four days later, England went into Lockdown. The children were all home. I needed help whilst I recovered and peace to rest.

Ruchama was there, looking after us all.

She kept the children occupied, made sure they stayed quiet whilst I rested, took care of all my needs and did so, all whilst making Pesach alone. We could not take the risk of letting anyone in the house, so we had no cleaning help and I couldn’t even help out this year either.

The sedorim were beautiful. Just sitting together with the family meant so much for me. At Shfoch Chamoscha I was Davening for all of us to get though, knowing 2 days after Pesach I would be starting the treatment.

Throughout this, I put on a brave face and kept it hidden from my parents. They had

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PRE-CHANUKAH SUPPLEMENT lost two daughters and I was determined that they should not find out what I was going through. My mother kept asking what was wrong and we always managed to come up with an answer that camouflaged reality.

Monday morning straight after Yom Tov, was the first of what would be 30 hospital visits for radiotherapy treatment. I was worried how I would get to and from hospital each day. It was covid-19. I could not take the chance of going in random minicabs; I was vulnerable and had to stay well to continue the treatment. An ACS volunteer set up a rota of volunteers to drive me each day.

Treatment started, I went five days a week having Shabbos and Sunday to recover before starting again. This went on for six weeks, slowly the side effects started, I was feeling unwell, I had stopped eating, I was not sleeping and found myself being in lots of pain. With my family and ACS supporting me all the way, I managed to make it through and completed the treatment erev Shavuos.

Bikur Choilim were very supportive, sending in meals and toys for the children.

It hurt me a lot the see my loving family suffer whilst they watched me go through all this. I really wanted to do something for them but didn’t have the energy. At times, I couldn’t even talk.

One Friday, treatment was really tough,

it took a few tries and a few hours before it worked the way it should. An ACS volunteer came to pick me up and realised what a state I was in. Being as thoughtful and supportive as always, before Shabbos he was back at our house to give ice cream and nosh to the children.

Each day I would lay on the hospital bed locked in position by the mask. I would close my eyes and recite Modim, I would sing to myself and talk to Hashem so therapy would pass faster.

Each day, the special volunteers came to take me to the treatment.

The days and weeks were passing, I was not coping with it all, Ruchama was always there for me. She was so strong each day.

Ruchama made sure the children listened to all their lessons and joined the conference calls. Somehow, she kept the house going.

Many friends called to see how I was doing, I kept feeling I was getting worse. I lost my voice and it was very hard for me to speak, I turned to Hashem with my Davning becoming more serious and I felt that inner connection directly with Hashem and the words “Kol ha’olam kulo gesher tzar me’od, veha’ikar lo le’fached klal”, kept coming to mind “All the world is a very narrow bridge, and the most important thing is not to be overwhelmed by fear. These words started coming in to me and for me at that moment

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it was a narrow bridge I was trying hard to get through, yet “the most important thing is not to be overwhelmed by fear” and the narrow bridge was not so narrow anymore and with that I carried on. Many people called to show they cared.

Erev Shavuos, as I was heading out to the last treatment, I had a call from the Boyaner Rebbe Shlita. It made my Yom Tov. Yitzchok Myer his son had been calling every few days and was reporting back on my condition, the Rebbe gave me lots of Brochos.

B”H, Yom Tov was very nice. I was knocked out. I had completed 30 sessions of therapy. I went to the hospital twice on erev Yom Tov to avoid having to go to hospital on Shavuos.

I could now start recovery. I am slowly recovering from a big life test. It has made me see how special people are, and how much chesed there is around.

It has been very hard and at my lowest moments Ruchama held it all together for me. My sister Elisheva was always there for me too. Our friends were all so supportive.

I also enjoyed daily visits from my Rov who came daily with freshly homemade soups.

B”H I can now proudly say, THANK YOU HASHEM for everything from what has been a very narrow bridge at times I have learnt that the most important thing is not to be overwhelmed by fear because the narrow just gets wider and we do not need to fear as HASHEM is holding our hands.

We do not always understand, we don’t know why and we can ask why me, then you answer yourself Thank You Hashem it is I so I can grow stronger and bigger.

I ask myself am I a Cancer survivor? Or am I a survivor of a big test from the one above? I know the answer and I am proud of it, as I finish these lines, we are two days from Chavi’s first Yorzeit, what a year it has been.

I now write to my dear sister Chavi in Heaven, It is definitely with your influence from above, that your husband and all your dear children are doing so well B”H. I ask you please continue to look over your family and us all as well so we can continue to find the inner strengths to keep going.

To all my friends I say thank you, to ACS and Bikur Choilim I say you are all amazing.

To my dear sister Elisheva, I say having the closeness to siblings is something you can’t put any value on and I treasure our relationship. To my dear wife Ruchama and our children, no words will ever sum up your care and support which helped me though this test, I love you all so much.

B”H my Emunah is so much stronger, and I hope I will continue to grow and go from strength to strength, always serving the Ribono Shel Olam.

Names have been changed however the writer of this story can be reached via The Jewish Weekly.

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Shine a light, save a life The miracles of the Klausenberger Rebbe z’l and beyond “At all costs, one should maintain and respect life” The Klausenberger Rebbe.

The Klausenberger Rebbe z’l

Laniado Hospital in Netanya is a remarkable place serving as a life-affirming response to the Holocaust. The hospital was built in 1974 out of the vision of one remarkable Holocaust survivor – The Klausenberger Rebbe z’l. Having survived the horrors of

the war, the Rebbe lost his wife, 11 children and most of his devoted followers. He made a vow during a death march where he himself almost lost his own life, he vowed that if he was to ever survive he would build a hospital to sanctify and preserve life.

In 1976 Laniado Hospital opened its doors to provide medical care and support to the residents of Netanya and the surrounding areas. The hospital was built on the Rebbe’s founding principles that every individual – regardless of race, religion, gender or ability to pay should never be denied medical care. The hospital places a huge emphasis on the value of human life and each patient is to be treated as an individual. Moreover, the hospital conducts all medical aspects in accordance with Jewish law and recruits professional and trained medical staff who embody these founding principles.

For over 40 years, Laniado has been providing world-leading care to more than 500,000 residents of the Netanya and Sharon region. Today, the hospital has a thriving maternity ward delivering more than 8,000 babies annually, treated more than 100,000 patients in its emergency department in 2019 and is at the forefront of

Laniado Hospital

medical research and innovation.

When the Coronavirus pandemic broke out back in March, the hospital was quick to respond and adapt and built a temporary coronavirus emergency department to be able to deal with the pandemic effectively as possible. This created a huge amount of pressure on the hospital’s resources and it quickly became apparent that the current intensive care unit at the hospital needed to be expanded in order for Laniado to continue to provide first-class medical care to its patients.

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Laniado International will undertake a global fundraising effort to raise $1 million dollar to build a new General Intensive Care Unit. The goal is to quadruple the size to 1000sqm, expand patient beds to 24 and increase capacity to 800 patients annually.

The campaign is being matched by an anonymous donor whose life was saved from coronavirus in Laniado’s ICU back in March.

To support the campaign and help create more miracles, you can pledge your support at bit.ly/lanuk2020 where every gift is being doubled, creating twice the impact.

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Safe Shabbat solutions Everyone knows that in the last few months our homes have become our most important place. It is precisely now time to invest in our home and make it a safer place as well.

The Hiddurit company took this ambitious step forward and have developed a winning trio of products for Shabbat Kodesh, three patents that fulfill the Jewish aspiration to glorify the Sabbath and make it safe and special, a Jewish-flavored Shabbat, in a unique concept.

In a conversation with the entrepreneur, the owner of The Ronen Gannon Company, he reveals to us the products and what they offer us.

Sepp R Lee tells us about the products and what’s behind them, “Unfortunately, every Saturday night there is painful news of another child who was burned by the Sabbath plate or the heater or hot water spilled and found their place on a young body.

As an entrepreneur and a person who likes to create and find solutions, I produced the safety patents out of a great sense of mission, and a desire to bring every house the light of the Sabbath without

worries.

“The first idea I will present is an innovative and safe electrical hot plate. If to this day we have known the hot plate, which has a series of safety, halachic and practical disadvantages, it is time to get to know the plate of Hiddurit.

The new hotplate, is a cost-effective product that saves us a third of our constant power consumption”.

The second ingenious development, which is clear to all how much thinking is invested in.

A particularly revolutionary product is the innovative, luxurious and safe plate cover.

“Unfortunately, we heard of heavy disasters that followed an innocent cloth cover that set an fire to a house. It took place in the U.S. and even in israel. In light of these cases, the manufacturer and cover is beautifully designed, with the top leather-like, beautiful and easy to clean.

What’s special about the Hiddurit inventions?

“Before I tell you about the urn we’ve developed, let’s go back, look at the grim reality in our eyes.”

“Beterem presents terrible data: about 60% of burns in Israel are due to contact with boiling water. 70% of the cases were among 0-4 year olds. At the end of the day, there is an increase in the number of casualties, with 84% of the burns occurring in the house and almost half in the kitchen.

For these reasons we worked on developing the exclusive urn. The urn is manufactured with innovative technology that ensures efficient use and significant mental calm. What does that mean? Let’s look at the totality of the product’s benefits. But first, Ronon suggests that we fill it with boiling water and try to bring the urn down from a height. Astonishingly, the top cover remains locked and sealed after it falls from a great height.

“Stainless steel is an expensive material,” explains Ronen, “which brings the usual companies to produce a heater with an exceptionally thin, minimal wall with a temperature that climbs to 100 degrees.

Any touching of a child can glue his hand to the surface. Our urn is produced with a double wall and insulated from stainless steel, so its heat can reach up to 40-45 degrees and the hand is stuck when it comes into contact.

“In addition, we have created a unique locking faucet, ensuring that the child cannot press the water at all. After each adult’s use, the water is locked for use by children.

“Besides, the lid of the urn is built with a double lock: a rotation and a tingle button that causes even if the boiler falls from the hash it will not open in any way.

And that’s not all! The heater

automatically switches from boiling mode to Shabbat mode, without human contact!

There’s no need to describe the hours before Saturday. Loaded with chores, stressed out by jobs. You want to make another dessert or another wipe, and, of course, fill the water. But then, just after the fuel, when the fumes are packing the kitchen, you’re reminded of the sorrow that you’ve once again forgotten to put the boiling button to Saturday mode.

In the urn there is a mehadrin hard plastic window, which protects the button from children and reminds us of Shabbat.

The product is innovatively designed, manufactured from 95 percent stainless steel not requiring immersion in a Mikva.

The owners of Hiddurit followed strict halachic guidelines and purchased the factory in China for the duration of the production and assembly of the meihamand the palette.

“The products went on the market about a month ago and customers’ reactions were enthusiastic. Many customers from all sectors congratulated the initiative and told of a Sabbath full of pleasure and tranquillity. They didn’t understand how these patents had not been thought of so far, and why so many years had their use involved so many dangers and painful disasters.

“The leading trio of products can be purchased in the leading chains: Electric Lounge, Big Electric, on a hydraulic site or at the reservation centre on 02089009400 email to: sales@hidurit.co.uk www.hidurit .co.uk “We are currently working on innovative plans for the future, including additional developments and life-changing products. Expect surprises.” smiles Ronen.

“I am happy to be the messenger to bring the light of the Sabbath to another Jewish home.”

Book review: Pete Returns

Pete Returns is a new children’s book on the market, the third in the series. Pete,

a primary school boy who has a younger sister called Rivka, who are typical siblings that have exciting adventures set against a backdrop of yommim tovim and day to day Jewish life. The stories are gentle, have small scale domestic dramas (the theft of a pencil by a jealous sibling/ the excitement of going on holiday), fun and engaging at the same time as being easy to understand for young readers.

In this series, join Pete and his family as Pete has his first day at school, celebrates yommim tovim, makes challahs with his mother, has a chumash party, goes to a theme park, goes on holiday, breaks his arm and visits Buckingham Palace.

Judy Mann, who lives in North West London, has been teaching for many years. First at Michael Sobell Sinai School and is currently in Menorah Primary. She has a gift to connect with children as well as being a master story-teller. She manages

to make her stories come alive, leaving children hanging on her every word and always wanting more. This is how she has been so successful in bringing out the third book of Pete’s adventures. As you read it, you can almost hear Judy reading the book to the children herself!

In a matter of weeks, the book has

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sold hundreds of copies internationally and has been loved by its young readers.

Author Judy, has had letters from children and parents alike who have already purchased the book saying their children have really appreciated the stories and can relate to them as they too had “been to Bournemouth on holiday”, “also broken their arm” and “there are lessons to be learnt and morals to each story written – a truly amazing book”.

The illustrator, Benjamin Sobel’s energetic and colourful drawings perfectly capture the mood and enhance the visualisations of each story.

This book would make a fantastic Chanukah/birthday present and is suitable for ages 3-7. The book costs £7 and is available in both London and Manchester by emailing jdmann61@ gmail.com.

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Students of Pardes House reception Jewish Care’s Bridge Extravaganza raises over £100,000 for core services class recently celebrated their belated Chumash Seuda

Pardes House Chumash Seuda

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The Bridge Extravaganza Committee raised an incredible £100,000 for Jewish Care at their second online Bridge Extravaganza tournament. The tournament attracted over 280 players, raising a phenomenal amount for Jewish Care’s core services.

In 2012, the Bridge Extravaganza achieved a Guinness World Record for having raised the most money cumulatively for charity.

Patsy Bloom and Susan James, Bridge Extravaganza Committee co-chairs said: “This year, not even a global pandemic would stand in our way of continuing our

annual tournament.”

Adam Overlander-Kaye, Director of Fundraising and Community Engagement, Jewish Care, said: “The Bridge Extravaganza Committee never ceases to amaze us with their total commitment to Jewish Care. We are incredibly grateful to them and everyone who took part in the tournament. The funds raised are vital and will help support our investment in PPE, rapid Covid-19 testing, Meals on Wheels deliveries, telephone befriending calls, and our expanded range of online activities and support for older members of the community.”

Police give Northwood shul helping hand

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Police with Jewish Blind & Disabled CEO Lisa Wimborne at Cecil Rosen Court

Northwood United Synagogue had a special helping hand for their postponed Mitzvah Day project with a visit to South Oxhey Police Station officers on Sunday.

Police assisted Northwood members to pack and deliver goodie bags to three local nursing homes, as well as to tenants at Jewish Blind & Disabled’s Cecil Rosen Court.

The postponed event took place once lockdown restrictions had eased.

The project continued the

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PHOTO: YAKIR ZUR

#EveryMitzvahMatters initiative to highlight everyday acts of kindness during the coronavirus pandemic.

On arrival at Cecil Rosen Court, volunteers were greeted by Jewish Blind & Disabled CEO Lisa Wimborne.

She said, “The arrival of a police van filled with wonderful goodie bags for our tenants brought some excitement and smiles to everyone. A huge thank you to everyone for some much-welcomed Mitzvah Day cheer!”

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New Chanukah video looks to break records with Grammy-winning producer After several years being dominated by Maccabeats and other US groups, a new Chanukah Video looks to break records and be the hit song of the season in Jewish households and beyond. Light One More featuring Rav Mo (Aish UK’s Rabbi Moshe Freidman) and breakout young star Yoni Shine, this track has been produced by Oskar Winberg, UK-based multi-platinum selling, Grammy and Latin Grammy award winning mixer, producer, recording engineer, and multi-instrumentalist. Mastered at the world famous Abbey Road Studios by Alex Gordon.

Yoni Shine, a 14 year old JFS student whose father is a known chazzan and Neshama band member, has performed at Limmud, hundreds of events and has sung alongside industry names such as Jess Glynne, Stormy and Dua Lipa in Europe and the US as well as having recorded major film soundtracks.

His incredible voice brings a professional and inspirational feel to this seasonal treat.

Rav Mo, aka Rabbi Moshe Friedman, started rapping during his time at University of Pennsylvania before undergoing a spiritual transformation and spending a decade learning and living in Israel. Now a Senior Educator at Aish and Director of the FJL (Forum for Jewish Leadership), Rabbi Moshe uses his rap music as a vehicle for positivity. He has released several songs in the past addressing issues of faith and community.

Light One More (3:17) is an original song

by Rav Mo featuring Yoni Shine. It addresses, amongst other things, people’s difficulty with social distancing over this usually close-knit festival period. The music video features students on campus stranded from their family during lockdown, Mo finds a way to connect through the act of lighting the candles of Chanukah. Many have already shared the video with an embedded link in a digital holiday card, which they

have shared with friends and relatives.

Expectation is high that this will be one of the fastest shared and most viewed Chanukah Video of all time, reaching over a million views before the end of the festival.

Rabbi Moshe said: “To me Chanukah represents finding positivity in the darkness.

That’s what I tried to do with rap music. I realised I could use it to inspire people.”

Producer Josh Brickman added “In a year clouded with such darkness and despair, we are in great need of powerful uplifting music filled with purity, joy and hope. Light One More encapsulates exactly that. From the moment Rabbi Friedman sent me the rough demo of this song I knew this would take on a life of its own and become the biggest Chanukah song of the year. This Chanukah won’t be like any we’ve experienced before, but we truly hope this song brings joy and hope to you and your families” The video is already online and can be found at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=mHHWt7JQc-w

10 DECEMBER 2020

Pinner’s creative pop-up cafe Since lockdown in March, the community’s once weekly cafe meetings, held in Pinner shul vestibule, with all the trimmings including a nespresso machine, daily papers and gingham table cloths, went online. Now, every Thursday morning between 1030 and 11.15am, over 60 people meet to have virtual coffee, a chat, and a presentation from a guest speaker - someone likely to be a local resident or a shul member.

The pop up cafe chat and share team, a creative group of shul volunteers, arrange these mornings with sessions including a talk by MP David Simmonds CBE, a chat with the Baron of Pinner, Lord Daniel Finkelstein, and most recently an entertainment programme for mitzvah day, supporting JLiving.

Talks are 15-20 minutes in duration,followed by a Q and A discussion. Pinner is fortunate in its community to have some really interesting people, professionals in their fields,willing to present. Obviously several talks focused around the horrors of COVID 19 and they heard from a heart consultant, a vet and senior civil servant on the effects and challenges of the pandemic.

Additionally, they provided all the pop up attendees with a special mug used weekly but at first, as part of their Shul support for a Macmillan coffee morning, where they also raised £750.

The programme is easily replicated and here are a few tips to help with its iteration in your community.

It just needs: • Someone to invite community congregants, obviously knowing ones members helps!

• Willing presenters with something to say • Good promotion informing congregants of the programme • A few people to consider the programmes and plan their timings and a monthly programme schedule.

• Your community also needs a zoom account.

• Someone who is tech savvy is important too. Thankfuly we have an invaluable Care coordinator, who supports the programme

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Side by Side lays foundation stone for £10m school Side by Side Special School has laid the foundation stone for its new £10m building at Avigdor Mews.

The Even HaPina symbolic event saw a series of socially distanced ceremonies with senior Rabbis, donors and dignitaries.

Speaking in the presence of Rabbi Feldman of Etz Chayim and Rabbonim of the Satmarer Kehillos, Rabbi Moshe Menchem Weiss and Rabbi Boruch Nosson Halberstam, building committee chairman, Rabbi Mochi Margulies, welcomed guests.

“Although it is unusual to hold an Even HaPina after the building’s foundations have already been laid, today is even more special as we can see the school rising before our eyes,” he said.

Paying tribute to Side by Side’s founder, Mrs Rebecca Rumpler, Rabbi Margulies noted, “It is a huge Z’chus that your dream is becoming a reality.”

Reb Motcha welcomed his brother Yossel, who served as Side by Side chairman for many years. “Now, Yossel, the whole Kehilla can see for themselves what you talked about for so long.”

Rabbi Margulies made special mention of

the generosity of the Feldman family.

The Vishnitz Rebbe of London graced the event. “Our community’s most special children deserve our most special help,” he said.

Hackney-based Side by Side plans for its new site to be open to pupils from September 2022, increasing its capacity from 80 children to approximately 130.

The committee is continuing its fundraising efforts with £5m still to be raised.

Rabbi Margulies concluded, “We need the entire kehilla to dig deep, every penny is being spent on construction and every donation really means bricks and each brick is a share in an incredible mitzva.”

Rabbi Shimon Cohen received a special blessing from Rabbi Margulies as a “long standing supporter and ardent ambassador” for Side by Side.

Rabbi Motcha Ziskind Landau, Rabbi Yossi Feldman, Rabbi Menachem Margulies, Rabbi Yisroel Moskovitz, Rabbi Shlome Sinitsky, Rabbi Yankey Schreiber, Rabbi Reuven Dovid Mendelovitz and the Roshei HaKehillos of the Satmarer Kehillos Rabbi Berish Berger and Rabbi Moishe Aryeh Freund participated.

Kisharon small business ventures

Shlomo Weltman

Kisharon is helping people with learning disabilities to set up small businesses.

The initiative is helping fill gaps caused by the loss of countless jobs because of Covid.

Many of the 80 employers Kisharon work with let learning disabled employees go as jobs were no longer relevant. With home working the norm, office tasks were not required.

Social distancing caused job losses in schools, shops and warehouses. In other cases, people Kisharon supports with underlying health conditions had to pull out of jobs for their own safety.

This had a catastrophic impact on Kisharon’s employment programme and the people it served.

Shlomo Weltman, Kisharon’s

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Employment and Opportunities Manager explained, “Jobs provided purpose and routine and meant people had a fulfilling day. They felt proud, their behaviour matured and they integrated well with new colleagues. More independent with earned money, their friendship circle expanded and they were often included in staff parties and other events. Many learned to travel on their own even taking the tube into central London. However, some employers have kept jobs open while others who cannot offer opportunities have kept people we support on the payroll.”

Shlomo and his team are working hard to create job opportunities that largely depend on an individual’s hobbies, skills and passions. They are given guidance with business plans and help to secure initial funding. Gardening services, parcel deliveries, takeaway coffee pop-ups and selling challah are potential ideas.

“The virus has highlighted that working on new business is an exciting new venture for Kisharon,” said Shlomo. “One day we will return to some normality and when this happens these businesses could carry on in addition to part-time jobs people worked at before.”

The uniqueness of Kisharon and the Jewish community is a starting point for business ideas.

“New schemes will take time to establish, I hope support workers will become business ‘champions’ and offer a helping hand.” added Shlomo.

Broughton Community Firefighters advised the community to enjoy Chanukah and stay safe, and where you place the Chanukiah, not next to curtains, also, Shomrim and Hatzola have been warning the Kehillah about the dangers.

Broughton Community Fire Fighters hold a Chanukiah

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

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A luxury watch inspired by Israel A special limited-edition watch produced by a Manchester born designer, has already seen sales across the globe including Australia, Singapore, USA, Indonesia and across Europe Creator of the IDW Morris Weiss founded the pre-owned luxury watch marketplace The Watch Exchange Ltd, which was

featured in the Jewish Insider’s December 2020 gift guide.

He specialises in creating customised and special edition watches to commission, for corporate and private clients wishing to thank employees or mark milestones. For the last 9 years he has been trading in watches from the likes of Swiss watchmaking’s

biggest names including Breitling, Rolex and Jaeger-LeCoultre. In 2015, he set up The Watch Exchange which buys and sells preowned watches and has secured an online customer base spanning all five continents.

Morris, who made aliyah in September 2020 told The Jewish Weekly that he has been ‘mad about watches since way before my bar

mitzvah! The IDW, Israeli Designer Watch, is my personal expression of my love for Israel - the physical beauty of the land, the sense of brotherhood and a millennia-long resilience in the face of adversity.’

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Kaifeng restaurant first with “The Vaccine” The research team at Kaifeng Restaurant in Hendon is excited to reveal that they are the first to be able to offer The Vaccine, a delicious new cocktail, that after extensive testing, has proved to cure 93% of tsuris.

“We are all very excited at this giant leap in mixology” says Norman Han at the restaurant. “Initially we are limiting the availability to people with confirmed reservations in the restaurant – with a maximum of two doses per person. In

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Kisharon launch online shop for Chanukah The Kisharon Gift and Homeware Store, Equal, has Chanukah stock available online.

Andrew Plaskow is offering virtual shopping tours on Facetime so shoppers can browse from the comfort of their home.

Home delivery is available to specified postcodes for purchases over £30.

Stock at the shop, where Covid guidelines are rigorously applied, has been adapted to match his expectations.

Andrew hasn’t just been busy filling the shop, as part of a social enterprise initiative for Chanukah, the Kisharon Further Education College has joined forces with the shop and Kisharon Print & Design team. Together they helped put together over 1,800 orders placed by synagogues.

Those involved helped label over 4,000 individual items for adults and children all with different labels which will result in over 1,000 children receiving a craft kit to paint their own Chanukiah for the festival.

Community members who receive it will be able to celebrate Chanukah with candles, matches and a bracha card with all the blessings on, an astonishing 80,000 candles will be distributed in time for Chanukah.

Aviva Braunold, Manager of Kisharon Further Education College said, “It has been absolutely wonderful to see the students so engaged in this meaningful task, see them follow the sequenced instructions and complete these large orders and have a sense of achievement once completed.

“When people place orders it’s not just

10 DECEMBER 2020

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JDA’s Richard rows to success A Jewish Deaf Association staff member has come up with a unique way to raise money for the charity during lockdown by completing a ‘row from home’ marathon.

Richard Turner received donations of over £500 by setting out to row 26 miles in 26 days.

Richard, an outreach worker for JDA, exceeded Richard Turner his task, completing 31.5 miles on his indoor WaterRower over just 23 days.

His longest session was six miles, he completed the challenge this week.

Richard said, “I’ve never rowed that distance before, so it was a real challenge.

All the money raised will go to our mobile

hearing aid maintenance and repair service, which was set up in response to the closure of NHS audiology services during the pandemic.”

JDA set up the only mobile hearing aid maintenance and repair service for individuals at home and people living in care homes with audiology services closed.

It was recently expanded to Redbridge and surrounding areas after demand.

Richard added, “As someone who is deaf, I understand the importance of having working hearing aids as, without them, deafness can be incredibly isolating and lonely.”

JDA details: www.jdeaf.org.uk

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The United Synagogue invites you to an exclusive Chanukah event...

HE Mrs Tzipi Hotovely Israeli Ambassador to the UK In conversation with

Michael Goldstein President of the United Synagogue

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We are delighted to welcome HE Mrs Tzipi Hotovely, the 18th Ambassador of Israel to the Court of St James’s and the first woman to be appointed to the position to join in conversation with our president Michael Goldstein.

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Mill Hill cooks up an exciting Chanukah Mill Hill really is taking Chanukah to the people! On three different nights over Chanukah Rabbi Schochet is driving an 8-foot Chanukiah to 11 different locations around Mill Hill with live music, clowns, donuts and goodies for the children.

The fun doesn’t stop there, we are also hosting an Israeli Masterchef winner Tom Franz, who will be cooking donuts live over Zoom. Tom Franz has an amazing story from a German Catholic to making Aliyah and converting to JuTom Franz daism. Over the

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Chanukah weekend, the Children have a choice of entertainment – over ZOOM – involving food and creativity, and the Women are holding a special Hallel service.

Our latest graduates of the Time to Shine Bat Mitzvah course celebrate too. The final community lighting takes place outside Ananas on Mill Hill Broadway on Tuesday.

Rabbi Schochet orchestrated the programme to include everyone, far and wide, for all ages across the whole community in Bringing the Community To You!

Manchester King David Primary school Reception children holding their own Chanukiyot that they made.

Proudly showing off their creations

Year 6 King David Primary School students have been learning about Africa in English, Geography & Art Lessons. Within this topic the students have covered slavery, the underground railroad and the countries of Africa. They have also been reading the ‘Journey to Jo’burg’ by Beverley Naidoo. In their art lessons they have consolidated their learning and have created their own version of African Tribal Masks.

King David Primary year 6 pupils with African Tribal Masks

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

Maradona’s simcha invite

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

King David Maccabee Games Marc (left) with Diego Maradona

Marc Heller (then aged 12) together with the most famous football in the world, Diego Maradona.

The picture was taken at the Accadia Hotel in Israel in 1986 where the Argentine team were staying during their visit.

King David Primary school Maccabee games teachers and children

King David Headteacher Mrs Rosenberg is on the lookout for a Staff Member to be the “Ultimate Maccabee”. Videos of the staff members competing have been filmed and on each night of Chanukah another round will be shown to the King David Community.

Staff have been battling hard to be crowned the champions. Families have been busy discussing who they think will win. Children and parents have had a chance to win a prize by correctly predicting the winner. Mr Goldin the organiser said the

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

following, “In these times when we haven’t been able to do as many extra-curricular activities as we are known for, we felt it would be amazing to bring joy and happiness to the entire King David Community”. Thank you to all our incredible staff for taking their time to film. Thank you to our wonderful parents and children who have interacted by voting. Time to see who will be the Ultimate Maccabee.” “Happy Chanukah!” Videos can be seen on the School Facebook page or website.

Marc invited Maradona to come to Hendon for the his Bar Mitzvah later that year but he could not make it due to “playing commitments”. Diego told Marc how much he loved being in Israel and his warm feeling for the country.

Holy Law Shul delivered this Chanukah gift to its members

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ASK THE RABBI

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com TO VACCINATE OR NOT TO VACCINATE: IT’S NOT EVEN A QUESTION

Dear Rabbi You have made your point about Covid abundantly clear in your past two articles. Funny, hard hitting and balanced. I especially liked your perspective about Shul life which made a lot of sense.

However, the big question now is, what about the vaccine? Do we assume as science tells us it can save lives, and therefore take it? Or can we assume that there may be some element of risk and therefore, perhaps from a Torah perspective one should not take the risk? Is there indeed a Torah/ Halachic position on the matter?

Rebecca Dear Rebecca Science is a matter of knowledge rather than belief. Belief can be countered by the suggestion that “I believe differently” whereas knowledge is subject to empirical investigation. This is exactly why there is so much rejection of medical expertise at the moment: Many people have confused knowledge with belief.

One believes in a given political system - it is very hard except in extreme cases to demonstrate that one system or approach is absolutely better than another.

It takes centuries to decide a debate of this sort. Therefore politics and philosophy remain in the realm of belief. Science either stands up to scrutiny or doesn’t. Since our knowledge is always changing and growing, what we know today is incomplete compared to what we will know tomorrow.

As Jews, Jewish law and ethics require us to make our decisions

on the basis of the best knowledge held by the mainstream of each profession in any given moment in history. Does that mean that medicine found in the concise code of Jewish law from 1871 is going to be different than the medical ideas found in a modern book of Jewish law?

Certainly so!

Nevertheless G-d requires us as Jews to follow the Torah’s demand that we define reality by the best available widely held expert understanding when we need to make decisions on the basis of our best understanding of reality with regards to matters of Health, life and death, economic matters, and so on. So too with regards to military matters.

All human knowledge is a fungible form of knowledge - unlike the Torah which is immutable knowledge. We are still commanded by the Torah to define reality by this imperfect and dynamic human construct. The Torah does not change but the input into the system of the Torah is the input of our best grasp of reality at the moment. This is the will of the Al-mighty and as our knowledge changes we will follow the conduct suggested by those new paradigms.

Thus, Judaism forbids us to ignore human knowledge even though it is by definition imperfect and absolutely subordinate to the dictates of the Torah.

We have an obligation to avoid that which the present state of knowledge says is dangerous to us or to others, and take those steps that said knowledge defines as salutary to our health.

So of course - when there is a vaccine for COVID-19 we are obligated to be immunized.

Pirkei Avot This week we carry on in the first Mishnah of Perek 2 from where we left off last week. Rebbi’s second piece of advice is just as crucial as his first. ‘Be as scrupulous in performing a minor mitzvah as a major one because you do not know the reward given for the respective mitzvahs.’

In shamayim we cannot know how each individual mitzvah will be rewarded by the precise scale of heavenly justice. However there is a train of

The same applies to all vaccines viewed as essential by the mainstream of medicine.

That is the unequivocal stand of the Torah.

JUDITH: HERO OR VILLAIN?

Dear Rabbi Is violence ever sanctioned in the Jewish faith? One of the celebrations of Chanukah is my namesake, Judith, chopping off the head of some general. I am not sure why my parents would give me that name and my husband is always looking over his shoulder wondering if it’s true that you carry traits of your namesake. Surely violence, however necessary, is not something to celebrate. That seems so out of keeping with our faith.

Judy Dear Judy So you found out your parents named you after some axe wielding murderer and have been having nightmares ever since? It is true that when you are named after someone you usually carry something of that person within you. To that end, I hope, if ever you get into an argument, that your husband keeps anything that resembles a weapon far away from you. But seriously, we are not a violent faith by any means.

We always try the diplomatic approach first. But would you have considered an assassination attempt on Hitler as immoral?

Where someone is aggressively pursuing me with intent to kill, then Jewish law renders that person a rodef (pursuer) whereby I am allowed to protect - not just myself in the name of self-defence - but anyone can step into the fray to put a stop to him. So to

put this story in proper context, Holofernes was the threatening general who laid siege to many Jewish towns in Israel. When he arrived at one particular town which he couldn’t immediately destroy, he decided to starve out the people. And while the Jewish leaders decided to surrender to him, Judith stepped forward, seduced the man and terminated

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For a refuah Shalema for Yitzchak Refoel Chaim ben Rifka thought that depending on how much we value a mitzvah is how much heavenly reward for it.

A story is told of a woman who got more schar than her friend when they both did the same mitzvah because she turned her head first in the direction they needed to go.

Rebbi continues by extolling man to calculate the loss of a mitzvah against its reward and vice versa. He ends by telling us to always be mindful of three

things in order not to come into the grip of sin. ‘Know what is above you, a watchful eye, an attentive ear, and that all your deeds are recorded in a book!’

Powerful stuff indeed. We really should be mindful of Hashem’s constant presence. Wishing all our readers a happy Chanukah.

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him. That set into motion salvation for all our people, and the ultimate victory of the Maccabees. Don’t see Judith as a villain, rather for the hero that she was.

You can be proud of your name and if you carry some of your namesake it means you, like her, can determine how to bring a little salvation into your own slice of the world! Happy Chanukah!

Perek 2: Mishna 2

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How Did Chanukah Alter the religions of the World?

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN The Chanukah miracle was a multi-layered experience: The ever-burning oil reminded us that even in a post-prophetic era Divine intervention still visited our people. For the very first time, we faced anti-religious hostility and fierce attempts to crush our religious belief and practice. Our triumph demonstrated the courage to sacrifice our lives for religion and the capacity to overthrow seemingly unconquerable enemies. This victory foreshadowed a two-thousand year struggle during which we would constantly face off against kings and empires bent upon crushing Judaism. Our matchless dedication to G-d has always defeated formidable adversaries. Finally, the military triumph of Chanukah restored Jewish sovereignty for a final ‘moment’ before we lost it two hundred years later. This was the last period of sovereignty before we lost it for two millennia.

However, Chanukah’s impact was felt far beyond the borders of Israel and far beyond the Jewish world. The “al hanisim” prayer of Chanukah refers to “G-d bolstering His holy name in His world (u’lecha asita sheim gadol v’kadosh b’olamecha), implying that Chanukah influenced global religious thought. The events of Chanukah cannot be severed from the larger historical process which pre-dated Chanukah and ensued in the centuries immediately afterwards.

Ancient Greece advanced major achievements in science, math, philosophy culture and politics. There is hardly of sphere of modern civilization which Greece didn’t deeply impact; Greece can be referred to as the “first civilization”. Additionally, Greece re-imagined the religious theories of the ancient world, breaking with archaic notions of paganism. No longer were gods physical statues, stars, natural elements or human-crafted images. The Greeks were able to abstract their gods into larger-thanlife beings who inhabited a distant mountain and possessed superior powers. They failed to imagine a one G-d responsible for the variety and dichotomy of this booming and buzzing world. However, they did make great strides in revolutionizing the way the world practiced religion; they extinguished the world of classic paganism.

In their search for religion, the Greeks also sought Judaism and its values. Approximately one hundred and fifty years before the Chanukah face off, Alexander the Great visited the same mountain upon which much of the Chanukah drama would unfold. This visit included a legendary encounter with Shimon “Hazadik” – the reigning Cohen Gadol - whose had visited Alexander’s dreams the night before each of his military conquests. By paying homage to this “Jewish” saint- to the shock of all his

generals- Alexander effectively recognized the vitality of Jerusalem and of the Torah in driving the expansion and development of Greece. He spares Jerusalem from inevitable conquest.

Additionally, about one hundred years before Chanukah, the Greek King of Egypt named Ptolemy II supervised the translation of the Torah into Greek- once again reflecting the great thirst in ancient Greece for Torah muse. Well before the Chanukah battle of cultures, Greece acknowledged the Torah and the Jews as indispensable for the expansion of Greek ideas. The initial stages of the encounter between Greece and Israel weren’t adversarial but solicitous; they weren’t hostile but friendly and collaborative. Greece sensed – perhaps instinctually- that Judaism possessed traditions of religion and Divine revelation which their culture lacked.

Of course this contact between Athens and Jerusalem also caused cultural seepage. Sadly, many Jews became Hellenized – unduly influenced by Greek ideals. However, the influence was bi-directional - many Greeks were deeply influenced by Jewish religion and ideals. Ultimately, it would be these Judaism-inspired Greeks and their Roman descendants who would be particularly impressionable to monotheism and would convert to Christianity. Essentially, the culture clash punctuated by Chanukah transformed Greece and advanced world religious thought closer to the ideals of monotheism.

Within about 800 years much of the world would convert to Christianity or Islam. While these are each flawed forms of monotheism, they are preferable to the paganism of antiquity as well as the Greek world of mythology.

The Jewish triumph during Chanukah is responsible for “seeding” the world with important values of monotheism.

How did Judaism impact the religious world of Greeks religious thought and how did Chanukah steer the world toward monotheism?

Firstly, Judaism reinforced the hierarchy between Man and G-d. Prehistoric man inhabited a terrifying world of chance and unending danger. Living in a chaotic world, the ancients imagined gods as grotesque figures inhabiting the heavens and mocking the humans below. Breaking with this tragic past, the Greeks were first to organize our world; science helped them categorize the physical world and philosophy help them organize the world of thought and meaning.

The word cosmos is a Greek word denoting “order”. By ordering the world the Greeks transformed it into a predictable world of ration without much of the anxiety which plagued their predecessors.

This shift to a less anxious and less frightening reality deeply affected their view of their gods. Men – empowered by

ration- were seen as equals to the gods; Man may possess inferior powers but they were essentially equal to the gods- they married gods, battled them, and forged alliances with them. The classic distance which had separated human beings from gods was eliminated. For this reason, Greek religion is completely deficient of the concept of commandments. Man can model the attributes or behaviour of gods but why should he be summoned to routinely fulfil the wishes and commandment of gods who were his equals.

Chanukah restored this lost “transcendence” and Judaism reminded the world that G-d is fundamentally different from human experience. We restored the sense of hierarchy to the relationship between Man and G-d and preserved the concept of commandments as the heart of religion. We ‘returned’ G-d to Heaven!

A second major flaw of Greek religious thought stemmed from the tendency of Greek philosophy to study eternal truths which had little to do with actual objects in our world. Plato likened human beings to people chained to a cave, watching shadows of figures walking by but never actually seeing real items. Eternal and ideal truths contained true meaning rather than actual physical objects. Plato shifted the Greek mind from actual objects and experiences to eternal and abstract concepts which represented the ideal forms.

This highly abstract doctrine created two glaring religious cavities. Firstly, as man pursues these abstract and eternal ideas he doesn’t operate within a particular historical framework. In the pursuit of the universal, Greece erased “historical context”. Jews were chosen as G-d’s people at a certain period of history and we were delivered a very particular historical mission. Chanukah re-asserted that Jewish selection occurred within a historical framework and as a response to the necessities of history. The book of Bereishit highlights a moral failure of history which

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caused G-d to select us. G-d’s will and word are timeless, by He instructs us to transform history by applying His will. Greek religion eliminated historical consciousness from human religion and the miracle of Chanukah reminded us that the revealed word of G-d was part of a larger historical process.

Finally, the world of Plato left little room for those who didn’t match the “ideal form” of human experience. Not every human being is born ‘ideal’ and suffering humans rely on each other for assistance. Ancient Greece didn’t incorporate charity or altruism as religious values. The Greek pursuit of “tzedek”an ideal and just society- ignored any values of tzedaka – of benevolence toward weaker members of society. Judaism restored the importance of chesed in perfecting a world left intentionally incomplete by G-d.

The miracle of Chanukah rejuvenated the Jewish spirit at a very delicate moment in our history. Beyond Jewish revitalization, Chanukah also shaped the evolution of general religion. Greek culture- for all of its achievements-was threatening to steer religion away from monotheism and its basic tenets such as hierarchy, commandments, historical consciousness and chesed. Chanukah stabilized the future course of religion and steered it back on course. While we hope one day for a world which clearly sees the one G-d, we are glad that most organized religions bear greater semblance to monotheism than they do to the sensational and scandalous world of Mount Olympus. Chanukah had a lot to say about that development.

Chanukah Sameach Moshe Taragin Rabbi Moshe Taragin is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.

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Weekly Dvar Torah F RO M ERETZ Y I SR AE L

Never Giving Up Hope

BY RABBANIT SALLY MAYER Yaakov was inconsolable. He sent his favorite son Yosef to check on his brothers in Shechem, but Yosef never returned.

Yosef’s brothers have sold him to slave traders on their way to Egypt, and they send their father Yosef’s special coat, dipped in goat blood, to deceive Yaakov into thinking that Yosef had been eaten by a wild animal. Using a goat to deceive their father as Yaakov had done to his father Yitzchak years before, their ruse succeeds, and Yaakov concludes that Yosef has died. The Torah relates that “All of his sons and all of his daughters got up to console him, but he refused to be comforted, saying, ‘I will go to the grave mourning my son’; and his father cried over him” (Bereishit 37:35).

Why would Yaakov not accept comfort over the death of his son? Rashi cites the Midrash that one cannot be comforted over the loss of someone who has not actually passed away, only over someone who is truly gone. This may be understood

in a mystical sense, but perhaps also reflects a psychological truth – when there is closure, it is possible to grieve and then to continue on with the memory and legacy of those we have lost. Without the closure of actually finding and burying Yosef, Yaakov could not go through the stages of grief; a part of him still hoped that Yosef was alive, which indeed he was.

The phrase “vayemaein lehitnacheim” – “He refused to be comforted” – appears in this combination only one other time in the entire Tanach, and that is in the famous verses in Yirmiyahu (31:14), “A voice is heard upon high, lamentation and bitter crying, Rachel is crying for her children, meiana lehinacheim – she refuses to be comforted over her children, for they are gone.” Why are these

exact words used again here, to describe Rachel’s weeping over her exiled children, so many generations later?

In Yirmiyahu, Rachel cries over her sons who have been exiled from Israel and suffer in captivity, just as her husband Yaakov cried over Yosef who is also in captivity in a strange land. Hashem responds to Rachel’s crying by telling her to “Refrain your voice from crying and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded, says Hashem, and they will return from the land of the enemy. And there is hope for your future, says Hashem, and your children will return to their own border.”

G-d is telling Rachel that you are right to refuse to be comforted – just as Yaakov could not accept consolation over Yosef because he was actually still alive, so too

We are the children of Yaakov and Rachel, for 2000 years refusing to be comforted over our exile, praying for and dreaming of returning home.

you refuse to be comforted because your children will indeed return to Israel and resettle the land.

Yosef ends his life with the message of hope to his brothers, passed down for generations until the Jews left Egypt – G-d will redeem you from Egypt and bring you back to Israel. We are the children of Yaakov and Rachel, for 2000 years refusing to be comforted over our exile, praying for and dreaming of returning home.

Baruch Hashem, we are witnessing this long-awaited return to Israel that grows by the year, affirming Yaakov and Rachel’s refusal to be comforted over the children who are not really gone, still keeping the dream of the Jewish People in the Jewish homeland very much alive.

Rabbanit Sally Mayer serves as Rosh Midrasha at Ohr Torah Stone’s Midreshet Lindenbaum in Jerusalem. She is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/speakers).

A Torah bite for the Shabbat table

Avoiding a Rut RABBI GOODMAN Dictionary.com defines a ‘rut’ as “a fixed or established mode of procedure or course of life, usually dull or unpromising.” Ruts are common - especially during a cold and dreary winter – and tend to creep into all areas of our lives.

Motivation wanes, enthusiasm subsides, resolve weakens, and before you can say “Yalla Habibi,” you wake up in a rut.

To someone stuck in a rut, whether a job rut, a marriage rut, a religious rut or a hair rut (to name a few), extreme change appears to be the only solution. Thankfully, extraneous circumstances prevent most of us from taking drastic steps and throwing our lives up in the air, but who doesn’t allow themselves the luxury of imagining such change? Ironically, those who do take the plunge rarely find Eutopia. Instead, they discover a new daily grind with its fair share of ruts and before long, they find themselves dreaming of a new beginning in a new place

with a new purpose.

If anyone of Biblical significance had a right to be in a rut, it was Yosef HaTzaddik. Although his life wasn’t particularly dull, nevertheless, it was far from promising. He was hated by his brothers, cast into a pit of snakes and scorpions, sold as a slave to a nation that despised his people, and thrown into prison for a crime he did not commit; Yosef had ample reason to dive headfirst into a rut, never to emerge.

However, we find that Yosef was one of the most upbeat personalities who, as the Torah testifies, was an “Ish Matzliach”– a man of great success. Wherever he found himself – at home, in Potiphar’s house, in prison, in Egypt - he inevitably rose to the top.

At the beginning of this week’s Parsha, the Torah describes Yosef as a “na’ar”– a young lad. Dayan Yechezkel Abramsky (1886 – 1976), head of the London Beis Din for 17 years, explained in the name of Reb Yisroel Salanter, that a na’ar

describes a person who constantly seeks renewal and rejuvenation within his life’s circumstances. Rather than mope and bemoan his fate, a na’ar looks for the new in the old; he views his situation from different angles and adopts new perspectives. Yosef did not allow himself to become a victim of his circumstances.

Instead he made sure to find the opportunity in every case and turn it into a success.

Thankfully, you don’t need to be a teenager to be a na’ar. As Rabbi Aharon II of Karlin (1802 – 1872) illustrates with a Chassidish twist to the Pasuk, “na’ar hayiti v’gam zakanti” – ‘I have been a na’ar, I have also been old’: ‘I have been a na’ar also when I have been old.’ No matter how old we are, our lives do not have to resemble a stale loaf of bread. By integrating a measure of flexibility and adaptability into our way of thinking, we can make the best of each situation and enjoy every minute of the rich and vibrant life Hashem has granted us.

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A project of My Dvar Torah, Torah Bite is your resource for a short, dynamic, and meaningful Dvar Torah to share at the Shabbos table. Originally from London, Rabbi Ben Goodman has spent 20 years in Jerusalem, teaching and inspiring students from all backgrounds and from all over the world. He is the director of My Dvar Torah, providing tailor-made Divrei Torah for all occasions. www. mydvartorah.com.

He encourages feedback & ideas: ben@mydvartorah.com

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Vayeishev RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

REFUSING TO BE COMFORTED

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks was a phenomenon.

No rabbi in the 21st century has spoken the message of G-d, religion and Judaism with the style, elegance and persuasiveness of Rabbi Sacks. He was a remarkable student who became a remarkable teacher. Jews and gentiles knew his voice and found inspiration in his words.

One of his great achievements was his “Covenant and Conversation” series. Often he said the unexpected, including on this week’s portion.

The Torah says that Jacob mourned for his son for a long time and refused to be comforted (Gen. 37:34-35). Rabbi Sacks points out quite correctly that Judaism sets limits to one’s grief, and there is a Midrash that says one may only continue to mourn if (as in our case) the person who is absent may well still be alive.

“To refuse to be comforted,” says Rabbi Sacks, “is to refuse to give up hope”.

It is not only Jacob who refused to give up hope. So did Rachel, “weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted”. Jeremiah (chapter 31) spoke in G-d’s name when he assured Rachel that her children would return

and there was hope for the future.

We know how true this is, living in an age when Jacob, Rachel, Jeremiah (and the A-lmighty) can acclaim the fulfilment of their faith, hope and dreams, when the bruised people have come back home and rebuilt Jerusalem, when Judaism is reinvigorated and Am Yisrael chai...

WHAT HAPPENED IN JAIL?

The Joseph story sees our hero thrown into jail, bet ha-sohar, “where the royal prisoners were bound” (Gen. 39:20).

Since we do not have details of the ancient Egyptian prison service we do not know how to interpret the reference to prisoners being bound.

It probably does mean that they were kept chained up. It is possible that some form of physical restraint like fetters was in use.

The Brown, Driver and Briggs lexicon thinks the word sohar comes from a root that means round, and hence the prison was a sort of roundhouse, possibly a domed building, maybe with a hole in the roof that let in a little light (the Ramban thinks sohar is linked to an Aramaic word for light).

The king must have had his favourite prisoners, possibly placed there for political reasons and not as

10 DECEMBER 2020

punishment for a criminal offence, and this could well be Joseph’s situation.

The idea of a special place of incarceration for political offences could explain why fellow prisoners of Joseph were the royal butler and baker.

All this being said, it is important to note that Joseph never lost heart or hope, and it was his prison term that led to his later career in which he brought credit to himself, support to the king, and a future to Jacob and the tribes of Israel.

WHY DIDN’T JOSEPH LEARN?

The Tzena Ur’ena was once the religious textbook of pious women.

From it came the stories of Biblical personalities that sometimes made the women cry and sometimes infuriated them.

Some stories had both effects at once.

One year when the sidra Vayeishev was read a certain woman got very upset at the way Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. “Poor lamb,” she said, “G-d should have compassion on you!”

A year later on the same Shabbat her reaction was quite different. “You silly fool!” she said; “how can anyone want to pity you? You know what happened to you last year, and now you let those brothers treat you like that again!”

The woman’s lack of historical sense makes us smile. But we are all sometimes guilty of doing what she thought Joseph had done – failing to learn from history.

The Rambam teaches (Hilchot T’shuvah) that the mark of true repentance is when you have the opportunity of

committing the same mistake again and this time you resist the temptation.

“I might have lapsed once,” you say, “but I know my mistake, and I’m not going to repeat it!”

As the proverb puts it, “Once bitten, twice shy”.

Rabbi Apple served for 32 years as the chief minister of the Great Synagogue, Sydney, Australia’s oldest congregation. He is now retired and lives in Jerusalem. Rabbi Apple blogs at http://www.oztorah.com

Chovat Halevavot Hilchot Shabbat We will now conclude the remaining 5 contrasts between the alchemist and a person of faith.

An alchemist can indeed earn a lot of money from his activity; however, he can fall ill and then won’t enjoy his money. One who has trust in G-d, however, will not worry about falling sick as they know that illness only comes to atone for sins or to allow them a better portion in Olam Haba. Everything that happens to them is for their benefit.

The seventh comparison is that the alchemist may become very wealthy but what happens if there is a famine? He’ll be as hungry as most other people. G-d takes care of those who trust in Him, though.

Furthermore, due to the less-thanhonest activity in which the alchemist engages, he is forced to (in some way) always be “on the run” lest he get caught.

Not so with one who has faith in G-d.

The penultimate difference is that which is highly worth recalling. An alchemist (or any other professional or businessman for that matter) may amass a vast fortune but, when their life is up, they take £0.00 with them. All that accompanies a person to the next world (is hopefully) their Torah and Mitzvot. One who has trust in G-d not only has a more serene existence in this world, they take the reward of having faith with them to the next world.

Finally, when the alchemist’s “fame” spreads he will likely be executed by the authorities or G-d may also punish him.

One who has faith in G-d on the other hand, will not only benefit themselves, others will learn from them too. This will earn them great respect and they will remain a shining example for all to learn from!

We continue with some introduction to basic principles of heating food on Shabbat.

In order to transgress the full Torah prohibition of heating food on Shabbat one need only cook it to ⅓ of the quality it is usually cooked to. Cooking the food from a ⅓ cooked to fully cooked is also forbidden.

If it is a liquid, it need not be brought to the boil; even to the temperature we mentioned in the last segment is already a Torah prohibition.

Heating up food or liquid even for no substantial purpose is likewise prohibited.

One must be careful therefore if they have a very damp coat not to hang it on a radiator if the liquid attached will reach the prohibited temperature.

The only permitted cooking is if one does so in the sun directly. (Not in something heated by the sun, such as

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sand; this is prohibited.) This is not a common occurrence (and certainly not in England!)

However, say if microwaves would not entail problems of electricity on Shabbat (which they obviously do) would there be a Torah prohibition of cooking in one?

The answer according to Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach is that it would be considered like cooking in the sun (I.e. not from a fire source). Rav Moshe Feinstein on the other hand, held that it would constitute the regular Torah prohibition of cooking as it is a usual manner of cooking in these days.

If one therefore had a life threatening medical need to cook on Shabbat then a rabbi would consider which of the above great authorities’ argument is stronger and may suggest the microwave option to lessen the breaking of Shabbat.

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Vayeishev

Vayeishev Word Search

Chanukah We are sooo excited to welcome the festival of Chanukah!

Approximately 2000 years ago, the Greeks opressed our ansectors in their homeland Israel and defiled the Beit Hamikdash, and there would have been nothing to light the Menorah with! The brave Maccabies fought off the Greeks and sent them away. When the Jews arrived back in the Beit Hamikdash they only found one jug of pure oil sealed by the Kohen Godol. There was only enough oil to last for one day, but G-d performed a miracle and it lasted for eight days! To celebrate this we sing Hallel, light our Menorah (and eat doughnuts and latkes...) for eight days. We think how much we must be grateful to G-d for and we remind ourselves that G-d is with us even when we are in exile and that one day, we will be brought back to the Holy Land and have the great fortune to watch the real Menorah being kindled in the House of Hashem, the Beit Hamikdash!

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BAKER • BROTHERS • BUTLER • CANAAN • DREAMS • POTIPHAR • PRISON • YOSEF

Tangram Challenge!

Using all the shapes on the left can you make the train shape on the right?

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Vayeishev

In a nutshell Yaakov hoped to “settle down” in the land of his fathers. He’d been through so much already.

However, Hashem had other plans and his biggest test was yet to come. You see, Yosef was the oldest child of his beloved Rochel and Yaakov therefore showed some favourtism to him. He made him a special cloak and studied with him in a unique way.

The brothers were very jealous. Not only that, when they would shepherd their father’s cattle, Yosef would notice the 4 sons of the “maidservants” being teased by the other brothers and he reported this to their father. One night Yosef has a dream of twelve sheaves representing all of them all bowing down to his. I then he has another dream of the sun, moon and stars (eleven stars) bowing down to him. These dreams infuriated his brothers and

were condemned by his father. The brothers had had enough and plotted to kill him! Reuven saved Yosef in the last minute by suggesting placing him into a pit, from where he was then removed and sold by his brothers as a slave, eventually to go to Egypt! He ends up as housekeeper of Potiphar, whose wife accuses Yosef of misbehaviour and poor Yosef ends up in jail! He sits there for TEN years! Meanwhile we learn about Yehuda getting married and becoming the father of the ancestor of the family of King David as well as eventually the Mashiach!

Yosef is in jail and one day he comes across two sad looking individuals - the Butler and baker of King Pharaoh himself! They had been sent to jail on charges of trying to ruin the King’s bread/wine.

Word Wheel The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel.

Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.

“Why do you look depressed? “ Yosef asks (even though they were in quite a depressing place after all, Yosef stayed upbeat!). They told him that they too, had strange dreams. The baker had dreamt that birds were pecking from a bread basket on his head whereas the Butler had dreamt that he had been pouring wine for Pharaoh. Yosef told the Butler that his dream was good news and the baker that his dream did not bode well. And indeed 3 days later on Pharaoh’s birthday the baker is hanged and the Butler reinstated to his job. Yosef had one request of the Butler though - Please remind your boss that I’d kind of like to get out of here! Did the Butler remember? No! And it would take two more dreams before Yosef would be freed and his dreams come true!

Use this area to write the words you have found.

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Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! ail lab nil bail

lain lair liar nail

rail rial alibi banal THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

binal blain blini brail

libra libri librarian

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Q: If fish lived on land, where would they live?

A: Finland

Q: What is at the end of a rainbow?

A: W! Q: If you drop a yellow hat in the Red Sea, what does it become?

A: Wet!

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. I can be written forward, backward or upside down, and can still be read from left to right. What am I?

3. If there are four sheep, two dogs and one herdsmen, how many feet are there?

Q: How do you divide 10 apples into 11 people?

A: Make apple sauce!

2. You answer me, although I never ask you questions.

What am I?

3) Two. Only people have feet.

2) A telephone 1. NOON

1. Excuse me 2. Search high and low 3. Tuna fish

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4. Within reason 5. Glance backwards 6. Good looking

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Big guns among pacesetters Sixteen-goal Lions in Premier League title race rout Scrabble in Cup

BY DAVID SAFFER

The Premier League title race is hotting up with the big guns among the pacesetters. top SAFFER seven clubs are separated by six BYThe DAVID points with Tottenham Hotspur and LiverpoolMogilner leading the waysix two points clear of Reiss scored goals as Maccabi Chelsea.

Leicester City and Southampton London Lions thumped Scrabble A in the are in the shakeup the moment but hovsecond round of theatCyril Anekstein Cup. ering just a win from the top-four are ManThe Premier League side racked up a 16-0 chester Manchester City.

Both win withUnited Danieland Green and Michael Kenley have bagging a game in hand. And face each both a hat-trick.

Edthey Brafman, Daother at Old Trafford at the weekend in what vid Dinkin, and Adam Hassanali completcould a classic encounter. loses ed thebe rout in a mismatch of aWhoever tie. will slip back as the top-three will be fancied Lions could have scored in the opening to take maximum points theopened next round minute of the clash but in soon the of fixtures.

With fans back on the scoring and led 9-0 by half time. terraces in Covid-safe numbers could though be in foroutthe The Division Oneweteam, best championship chase forend. many a year. classed, battled away to the Tottenham to an winat against ArLions boss eased was lost for2-0 words full time senal in the north London derby on Sunday such was the display from his team who afternoon. gave every respect to the opposition.

Harry Kane andsure Son there’s Heung-min settled “I’m not really anything to the by half to time in aitsuperlative say,contest we are happy make through todisthe play

by Jose Mourinho’s title challengers. next round of the cup,” he commented.

Mourinho can avoid talk of title3-1 tiltvictors all he Hendon United Sports ranaout wants but his charges are ready to go for the against League One outfit North London biggest domestic prize.

Raiders.

Son combined with curling The Premier side ledKane early before in the second home a superb 25-yard strike beyond Arhalf only for Raiders to equalise but struck senal ‘keeper Leno on 13 in minutes. two late goalsBernd to book a place round Arsenal bossed possession but Tottenham three of the competition. were clinical on the findingto Kane Hendon now turnbreak, their Son attentions the to fire home off the underside of the crossbar league as they travel to Oakwood A for a just before crucial topthe of break. the table clash on Sunday The Gunners failed to mount a comeback (10am). after halfKristall’s time asteam Tottenham Daniel stunnedleapfrogged the league pre-game leaders Chelsea thewon top. 2-0, Mikela leaders last month when at they Arteta’s team have slipped to 15th in the victory would move them to within a point table. of Hendon with a match in hand.

Defending champions still Elsewhere in the latest Liverpool round of fiare xtures, shorn of first team choices but proved far 10-man North London Galaxy made ittooa strong for Wolves inin a 4-0 Anfield.One three-way title race therout onlyat Division Mo Salah capitalised on a Conor Coady clash of the day after defeating Oakwood B. error to open the scoring midway through Jamie Murray saw red early on but Galaxy the firstwith half.goals from Josh Cohen and Jarallied Three second half goals inside 202-1 minutes cob Leigh to record an important away sealed the points. win.

Georginio Wijnaldum the lead Galaxy head Redbridgedoubled Jewish Care A in just before the hour with a long-range efthe table by just one point after 10 matches, fort, Joel Matip nodded in a header before third place Fairlop FC are five points beNelson Semedo put through his own goal 12 hind with two games in hand. minutes from time.

Rafi Bloom scored for Oakwood.

Wolves penetrate inthea “It was astruggled fantastic to performance

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United faces Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City this weekend

PHOTO: SHUTTERTOCK

Liverpool defence but looked like getting an opportunity when referee Craig Pawson pointed to the spot after Sadio Mane appeared to foul Coady. But Pawson correctly overturned his decision after reviewing the VAR monitor.

16-goal Maccabi London Lions Liverpool trail Tottenham on goal difference after game, a win”that delightedGalaxy boss Jurgen must-win commented playKlopp. er-manager Luke Lewis.

Frank Lampard’s mettle “We sat back andChelsea allowedshowed Oakwood the in coming from behind to defeat Marcelo ball, given the one-man advantage and Bielsa’s at Stamford Bridge on looked Leeds to hit United them on the counter attack Saturday night. with pace.

Patrick Bamford failed to the make a senior “Both goals came down right-hand appearance for thethe Blues his time side. Leigh crossed firstduring one into Cohen at the club but showed a clinical side to his to finish, before slotting home himself. Up game on just three minutes. to first we go.”

Chelsea were unfazed andrace equalised just The Division Two title also took before the half hour through inform-striker a twist with league leaders Herstwood Olivier Giroud in to hisa first league at start after Vale going down 2-1 defeat Temple hitting four against Sevilla in the Champions Fortune.

League.

Faithfold B have played a game more TheVale hosts have than butwould moved levelbeen withlevel a 5-3but winfor at an extraordinary point-blank miss by Timo North London Raiders Masters.

Werner a Giroud flicked followJacobfrom Kalms struck twice forheader Fortune who ing a corner.

But the hosts were ahead just scored through leading scorer James Milpast thehis hour a Kurt Zouma header letwith 17thfrom goal of the season. and thewas points Christian Pulisic Thsealed e result all when the more remarkable added the third deep into injury time. as Temple were down to 11 players with Leeds Ben ‘keeper Illan Meslier denied Werner ‘keeper Rebuck dislocating a shoulder on three further occasions. in the warm up.

Leicester in the win mix given but only “This was are a fantastic the

after a dramatic late win at luckless Sheffield United.

The Foxes were indebted to sharpshooter Jamie Vardy for a 90th-minute winner from a James Maddison assist past Sheffield ‘keeper Aaron Ramsdale.

The lifelong Sheffield Wednesday snapped a corner flag with his boot during celebrations.

Ayoze Perez had given Leicester the lead midway through the half only for Oli McBurnie to level the scores within two minutes before Vardy’s late heroics. Leicester missed out on a Champions League spot last season and seem in the mood to pursue one again.

The Blades appear doomed having picked up just a solitary point from 11 games. But there is still a long way to go for Chris Wilder’s team who are six points behind fourth bottom Fulham.

Fifth-placed Southampton came from behind to edge a hard-fought clash at Brighton in the Monday night game. But it was a contentious victory as Danny Ings’ spot kick winner only came after David Coote awarded the penalty after a prolonged VAR review when Solly March brought down Kyle Walker-Peters on the edge of the box.

Saints got back into the game before half time with a Jannik Vestergaard header after Pascal Gross opened the scoring from the spot following James Ward-Prowse correctly being penalised for handball.

Manchester United came from behind for a fifth time to win away from home this season in a stunning fightback against West Ham United at the London Stadium.

The Hammers dominated the game for over an hour and deservedly led through a Tomas Soucek ”header 38 minutes.

But circumstances, said on delighted Fortune Ole Gunnar Solskjaer introduced Marcus boss Simon Linden.

Rashford and Bruno Fernandes the Rein“We had a number of playersatout, terval then Juan Mata just after the hour.

All buck got injured, so I couldn’t have asked three would set up goals in a memorable any more from the players. We wish Ben a win. speedy recovery.

Paul Pogba stroked home from distance “It was a proper old school performance, to level the scores on 65 minutes, Mason we battled and defended for the 90 minutes Greenwood clinical finish moand took ourprovided chances.a Experience proved ments later before Rashford clinically dinked to be the winner. It’s a big win, one we will home to wrap up thetowin onon 78 minutes. enjoy and we hope build it in 2019.”

Hammers boss David Moyes complained He added, “This win marks 50 years as a about the opening United goal from Pogba, football club and will be one Nigel Kyte and whose agent claims wants to move on inday the everyone associated with the club from

January transfer window, VAR being unable to tell if United ‘keeper Dean Henderson’s long clearance had curled beyond the sideline. But his side had ample opportunities to seal the win by half time as Pablo Fornals hit a post and Sebastien Haller slipped after rounding Henderson.

Solskjaer was delighted with a fourth consecutive league win but the Reds cannot afford to keep giving opponents a goal start.

His team need to start winning regularly at home and face arguably the stiffest challenge when Pep Guardiola’s team make the short trip to Old Trafford in the coming days.

Raheem Sterling and a Kevin de Bruyne penalty were enough for Manchester City to overcome Fulham at home and ominously climb the league table.

This latest win though should have been more comfortable as Fulham ‘keeper Alphonse Areola kept his side in the game on numerous occasions whilst De Bruyne hit the crossbar. Amazingly this is the first time Guardiola’s side has won consecutive matches this season. The title race is far from over.

Burnley and Everton shared the spoils at Turf Moor.

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER The hosts are battling at the wrong end of the table and were desperate for a win.

And Robbie Brady gave them a perfect start when he fired home on three minutes. But the visitors who are struggling for form after a terrific opening to the campaign equalised through Dominic Calvert-Lewin before half time.

Both sides had openings to win but Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope impressed in goal to earn a point.

West Brom went down to a heavy defeat after Matheus one will enjoy.” Pereira’s red card against Crystal Palace.

Vale boss Jacob Emanuel was quick to TheRebuck Baggieswell had just equalised through wish following his injury.

Conor Gallagher after Darnell Furlong had “First and most importantly, everyone at scored an eighth minute own goal when Vale would like to wish the Fortune ‘keeper referee Tierney dismissed a quick Paul recovery, we hope to seethe himstriker back after a clash with Patrick van Aanholt. on the football pitch as soon as possible,Tier” he ney said.brandished the card after examining the incident pitch-side monitor.

As for on theadefeat, Emanuel commented, Wilfred Zaha made the for indis“It doesn’t matter how hosts big apay squad you cipline by bagging a second half brace and have, you can never account for unavailan assist for Christian whoteam also ability or injury.

Only fiBenteke, ve of today’s scored twice in a resounding 5-1 triumph played in our recent win over FC Team,ata The lackHawthorns. of togetherness and poor individual

“It was a proper old school performance, we battled and defended for the 90 minutes and took our chances. Experience proved to be the winner.”

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Kyte’s team flying high at top of Premier League

BY DAVID SAFFER Premier League pacesetters Maccabi London FC enjoyed a sixth consecutive win with a comfortable 5-0 victory over Faithfold White at Rowley Lane.

Max Kyte’s team returned to action after the recent lockdown and remain six points clear of nearest rivals HMH who defeated North London Raiders 4-2 at The Hive. Defending champions Hendon United Sports are a point off the relegation spots after a 2-0 defeat at Oakwood.

Maccabi eased to a victory against a gallant Faithfold outfit who have yet to pick up a point this season. After a slow start, pre-lockdown signing Ben Kasler tucked away a cross from Zak Berg on 15 minutes, the hosts doubled the lead just before the half time through Ben Kohler at the back post.

Charlie Dryer came on at half time and settled the contest within a minute of the kick off.

Faithfold continued to battle but could not stop Kohler bagging his second of the contest before Mikey Perkins completed the scoring 10 minutes from time.

“The beginning of the game was close and it was evident we had some cobwebs,” said Kyte. “After 15 minutes we got into our rhythm but weren’t clinical enough. Overall we were a bit better than average.”

Max Foster, Ariel Rahamim (2) and Oscar Wagner scored for HMH who overcame Raiders in a hard-fought encounter. But the match could have had a different result had Raiders not missed two penalties. Liron Mannie scored a brace for the visitors.

“Despite missing a few regulars and facing a very strong Raiders team who played well we stood our ground, fought hard and ran out winners,” said HMH boss Avi Goldberg.

Raiders manager Gideon Gale noted, “We’re gutted, we learnt a very hard lesson. If you don’t take your chances, you don’t win. Having missed penalties and countless good opportunities we headed back pointless. On another day, we could have been seven up at half time.”

Felix Shalom and Brad Wine struck the goals for Oakwood in a fine home win against struggling Hendon.

Lewis Blitz was delighted with a “great squad” performance.

“All 15 boys played a huge role,” he said.

“We knew it was going to be a tough challenge but everyone stepped up. We deserved the win. It’s now about consistency and seeing if we can put in these performances week in and week out.”

Hendon’s David Garbacz had few complaints at the final result.

“It was great to be back playing football,

Maccabi and Faithfold battle for possession

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

Maccabi’s Ben Kasler taps home against Faithfold

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

on the whole, it was a very good game played at a decent pace and a good standard,” he said. “Oakwood seemed slightly quicker and fitter than us and that was probably the difference on the day. They scored a breakaway goal to take the lead and the second came from an unfortunate mistake but they deserved the win. They have a squad which looks like it could make a sustained title challenge this year.”

He added, “We weren’t quite at the races today, we didn’t play badly but couldn’t create the openings. We need to improve and start picking up wins very soon if we are to start closing the gap at the top.”

Fairlop defeated North London Galaxy 3-2 to remain in third place. The clash between Jewdinese and Faithfold Blue was postponed.

Club de Chigwell moved into striking

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distance at the top of Division One with a fine 4-0 away win at Mill Hill Dons.

Stanley Offord cushioned Josh Klein’s free kick for Jacob Bennett to score his first goal of the season. Offord was in the action again when he won a crunching tackle before Taylor Bedworth played a defence splitting pass to Aaron Spalter to score. Taylor Bedworth found Joe Klein who thundered a 30-yard volley into the top corner for the goal of the game.

Bedworth tapped home after Max Aston had a penalty saved to complete the scoring.

“A really professional performance and arguably our best team display this season but there is much more to come,” summed up CdC boss, Joshua Dobias.

CdC are six points behind league leaders Borussia Barnet who went down to a shock 5-1 win at London Bears who are a point clear of Dobias’ team in second place.

Rory Carlson nodded Bears ahead before a Jared Rand penalty made it 2-0 at half time. Nathan Anders scored a scrappy goal after the break before Rand rifled home an effort to make it 4-0.

Barnet went down to 10 men and Bears took advantage, Carlson and Rand linking to force own goal. Barnet grabbed a consolation late on.

“We are buzzing with this victory,” said player boss James Harpin. “We knew that Borussia would lose their heads if we took the lead and that’s what happened. Breaking their 16-match unbeaten run is a great achievement but we are happier with the fact we are second in the league.”

Hertswood Vale are also in promotion contention following a 5-0 win against Paris Saint Jewmain. Vale have two games in hand over the league leaders.

The hosts took the lead on three minutes when Charlie Becker forced an own goal from a dangerous cross. Vale doubled the lead inside 20 minutes with a team goal, a James Millet through-ball releasing Josh Gorb whose inch-perfect cross was nodded in by Robbie Metzger.

Vale took six minutes after half time to grab a third goal. A brilliant ball from Millet was dummied by Harry Graham, Metzger picked up the ball and let fly for his second goal of the match. Just before the hour Gorb’s ball found Graham to slot home. Vale scored one more before the final whistle, Graham finishing after being put through by Millet in the 89th minute.

Vale’s Jacob Emmanual commented, “It was a professional performance from the boys. It’s difficult to leave disappointed after a 5-0 win, but with better finishing we could’ve hit double figures.”

Brook Farm Rovers player-boss Dan Cohen slotted two penalties in a 3-0 win over

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Faithfold look to strike from a free kick against Maccabi

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

Maccabi go close against Faithfold

Faithfold push for an equaliser against the league leaders

Faithfold Green.

Adam Goldberg grabbed a breakaway goal for the victors.

Cohen noted, “It was a solid performance.

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

We defended resolutely and were a constant threat. In the end, we could have scored plenty more. I’m proud of the boys after a long lay-off, now we’re looking to

kick on and climb the table.”

FC Team’s match against Temple Fortune was postponed.

Division Two leaders Stoke Salmon continued a perfect campaign with a 3-1 win at SPEC FC. Goalscorers Nicholas Barnett (2) and Jonathan Halmer claimed the points but Stoke were indebted to goalkeeper Joshua Tray for a man of the match performance.

Stoke’s Jamie Weiner said, “Bad conditions made it a difficult game. There was rustiness from the boys but we got the points to take us top of the league. Joshua (Tray) pulled off some incredible saves.”

Josh Green scored for the hosts, SPEC boss Ricky Lawrence had no complaints with the outcome.

“The better side on the day won,” he said. “The first half was even but we never

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

got going in the second and Stoke were worthy winners.”

Redbridge Jewish Care picked up a first win of the season in a 10-goal thriller against Scrabble. Redbridge claimed the points in a memorable 6-4 triumph.

The hosts pressed from the start, forced mistakes and got early goals from Ben Nathan and Sam Cormack, both following in on rebounds from Scrabble’s goalkeeper.

Jimmy Castle scored the pick of the bunch from just outside the box to make it 3-0 before Josh Joseph struck from the spot. An own goal made it 5-2 to Redbridge at the break.

Scrabble got the score back to 5-4 to set up a stirring finish. Nathan settled the contest, setting Cormack away to finish coolly.

Clashes between Straw Hat Pirates vs NWL Azzurri and FC East London Bees vs West Hendon Wallabies were postponed.

MJSL news At Frederick Road, a very tight game saw Broughton Park Rangers jump up to 2nd dislodging Jewventus in the process. Generally it was a well contested game of football. BPR took the lead midway through the first half when Yoni Green finished into the bottom corner and were value for the lead at half time.

The “visitors” and designated away team

A clash for the ball

continued to dominate with a key midfield battle. Jasper Van Veen doubled the lead from a quick throw in but the game was made nervy when Reich somewhat deservedly had held in there and pulled a goal back through Ben Burton with 5 mins to play from a set piece then a late free kick may have seen the points shared but Rangers managed to defend out a deserved win.

PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL

Rangers head the ball

Jewventus ‘Keeper saves the ball from a Rangers attack

PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL

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A duel for possession

PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL

PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL