The Jewish Weekly Issue 174

EE FR

14 JANUARY 2021/1 SHEVAT 5781

@TheJewishWeekly 174

FOLLOW LOCKDOWN REGULATIONS PLEA

BY DAVID SAFFER British Jewry must follow government regulations with the nation in the grip of the Covid storm.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has put the country into a third lockdown yet day after day there is news of violations across the country with unlawful gatherings and precautions being ignored.

Community leaders and business people back the latest measures.

The Jewish community has experienced its deadliest week in terms of fatalities since the peak of the first wave of the pandemic in April. Tragically 43 funerals took place in the week ending January 8th where the deceased contracted Covid-19. There have been 691 Jewish funerals in total to date.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson

The latest figures make grim reading and Board of Deputies President, Marie van der Zyl, has written about the latest statistics in this week’s edition with a clear message.

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

“We must follow government guidance scrupulously to protect our older and more vulnerable loved ones, as well as the health system on which we all rely,” she said.

Supermarkets are now tightening guidelines. However, some shops have reported negative feedback about the level of stringencies in place and criticism they are not doing enough. Requests to follow rules are also ignored. “Policing individual shoppers is not a realistic expectation,” a Kosher Kingdom spokesman told The Jewish Weekly.

The Golders Green flagship retail outlet have worked tirelessly to implement safety measures to create the safest possible shopping environment. Aside from full time crowd control at the entrance, there is a limit in number of shoppers and constant reminders to wear masks. Sanitising is visibly apparent, yet they CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 experience issues over safety efforts for customers.

There are legitimate instances where customers are not required to wear a mask or must shop with children and these exceptions cannot be judged.

The Jewish Weekly understands that when it comes to kosher shops across North West London, most shoppers are recognising the huge efforts that shops have undertaken to make for a safe environment.

But shoppers must be reminded to respect staff, stop congregating in general and in shops, and try not to bring children shopping. “If you must shop with children, consider those old enough to wear a mask to wear one,” one shop that didn’t want to be named told us. “Children are known to be carriers and can spread the virus. When asked to follow guidelines, say thank you for caring. Do not wait for someone near and dear to be affected, it may be too late.” They added, “To stop the spread, everyone needs to take a step back and play their part.”

For concerned community members, the United Synagogue has a dedicated coronavirus helpline. Community volunteers and US staff offer members practical advice or a friendly ear for those struggling to cope.

The helpline can point people in the right direction for practical support such as shopping or cooking, spiritual and emotional support. All calls are confidential.

The helpline number is 020 8343 5696 (Monday to Thursday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-1pm).

Outside these hours community members can leave a message and someone will call back.

Those wishing to email can contact the US at helpline@theus.org.uk.

Michelle Minsky, US Chesed department, said: “We know that the new lockdown will bring with it many difficulties for our communities. Having to adjust to home schooling, juggling work and family commitments and worrying about job security or finding work is piling on pressure at an already difficult time. The confidential helpline is here to help members find support during the pandemic. Nobody should be afraid to ask for help.”

US shuls remain open at the discretion of communities. Eleven are operational operating government guidelines. As an additional precautionary measure, shuls are reducing capacities. An average service has 15-20 people allowing mourners to say kaddish and families to celebrate a simcha in a limited way. But the situation is changing daily and the US will continue to monitor it.

“When asked to follow guidelines, say thank you for caring. Do not wait for someone near and dear to be affected, it may be too late.”

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From the editor’s desk

T

his week has been the deadliest week for our community since Covid-19 first hit our shores, with 43 funerals taking place after the deceased tested positive for corona within 28 days of death.

The sad reality is that for many in our community, following the rules is simply not something that they are willing to do. This newspaper has been slammed in the past for calling out the rule breakers in our community, yet we will continue to do so, especially when lives have been lost.

One of the leading rabbis in the world, Rabbi Gershon Edelstein recently came out and blasted those who disobey the rules putting people’s lives at risk. You will have seen our front page where Kosher Kingdom, the biggest kosher shop in Europe have made an appeal to our readers to obey the rules to help save lives. You will read further on this week’s interview with Avi Yodaiken, a 36-year-old father of six with no previous underlying health conditions who spent three days in intensive care recently. Take to heart his message where he urges people to follow the rules and save lives.

Apology We apologise that last week’s edition unfortunately contained sheimos in a photograph.

Kindly dispose of in the correct manner.

Merron steps down from BoD

BY NATALIE ASH Board of Deputies chief executive Chief Gillian Merron steps down after six-and-a-half years on 2nd April following the announcement she is to be a Life Peer.

Ms Merron said her appointment in the House of Lords was a conflict of interest so she would not be undertaking political work in remaining months.

The Board, she felt, was in better shape, making a greater impact and had more potential than before.

She added, “I have enjoyed working together with so many talented and committed colleagues Presidents, lay leaders, staff and volunteers.”

Michael Wegier, former UJIA chief, is interim successor.

“I look forward to Michael steering the Board of Deputies to greater heights, bringing different skills and ambition to this next chapter for the organisation,” Ms Merron said.

She added, “Our community is quite remarkable and I wish all strength, success and happiness for all of my friends and

The Jewish Weekly www.thejewishweekly.com office@thejewishweekly.com editorial@thejewishweekly.com letters@thejewishweekly.com advertising@thejewishweekly.com London tel. 0203

906 8488 Manchester tel. 0161 804 1321

Gillian Merron

colleagues who serve our community in so many ways.”

Wegier noted, “The Board of Deputies plays an essential role in steering the relationship between British Jews, wider British government and society as well as the global Jewish community.”

Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl commented, “The organisation has been transformed, she can be credited with so many of our achievements.”

Regarding Wegier’s appointment, she noted that he had a great track record, wealth of experience and expertise.

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 02 News 10 Opinion 11 Letters 12 Community 16 Obituary 18 Feature 20 Health & Wellbeing

22 Behind The Business Card 24 Judaism 30 Kids 32 Youth 34 Sport

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Labour initiates Action Plan on time

BY ADAM MOSES Campaign Against Antisemitism has confirmed that the Labour Party has published a discrete Antisemitism Complaints holding page on its website.

The initiative comes under the Action Plan launched in December 2020. The Party vowed to upload the webpage by 31 December 2020.

The Action Plan was produced in response to the Equality and Human Rights Commission finding the Party discriminated against Jewish people.

The webpage will be updated throughout 2021, including further guidance for anti-Semitism complaints procedures and a Code of conduct against Antis-Semitism.

It will also provide a portal to a “summary of statistics of disciplinary cases determined by the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee in 2019.

CAA noted that the document refers to case numbers in 2014-2018 but no reference to 2019.

CAA is writing to the Party to clarify what this document is showing and will continue to monitor Labour’s progress in fulfilling its Action Plan, implementing recommendations of the EHRC and making the Party safe for Britain’s Jews.

CAA has lodged a complaint against former leader Jeremy Corbyn.

They noted online, “We are seeking Mr

Corbyn’s immediate resuspension and, if the complaint is upheld, we will be requesting his expulsion.

“On the day of the publication of the EHRC’s report, we also submitted a major complaint against Mr Corbyn and other sitting MPs. These complaints are yet to be acknowledged by the Party, and they must be investigated by an independent disciplinary process that the EHRC has demanded and Sir Keir has promised but has yet to introduce.”

The Labour Party was found by the EHRC to have engaged in unlawful discrimination and harassment of Jews. The report followed the EHRC’s investigation of the Party in which CAA was the complainant, submitting hundreds of pages of evidence and legal argument.

Sir Keir Starmer called the publication of the report a “day of shame” for the Labour Party.

In other CAA news, the organisation has submitted a complaint to the Bar Standards Board against a London-based barrister.

Franck Magennis of Garden Court Chambers reportedly tweeted last month, “Zionism is a kind of racism. It is essentially colonial. It has manifested in an apartheid regime calling itself ‘the Jewish state’ that dominates non-Jews, and particularly Palestinians. You can’t practice anti-racism at the same time as identifying with,

Labour leader Keir Starmer

Sephardi Chief Rabbi breaks Covid measures

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

or supporting, Zionism.”

CAA called for the investigation on grounds that the comment breaches standards expected of barristers and damages trust and confidence in the profession.

The Chambers’ website profile describes Magennis as “an expert on the Palestinian struggle for emancipation from Israeli apartheid and occupation”.

According to the IHRA, denying Jewish people a right to self-determination is an example of anti-Semitism. And, asserting the “You can’t practice anti-racism…” comment dishonours British Jews.

1,700 attend Jewish heirlooms roadshow

BY HOWARD LEVY Broadcaster Nick Ross has shared unseen documents chronicling his father’s time in an Australian internment camp during the Second World War. Ross was part of the Board of Deputies’ Hidden Treasures Jewish Heirlooms Roadshow on Sunday. Over 1,700 people attended the online event.

Historian Dr Rachel Pistol discussed the material, which included a plan of Hay Camp 7 belonging to Ross’ father Hans Rosenbluth, a 3-D paper model he made of Hut 26 and greetings cards produced by fellow internees, featuring caricatures of Hans.

The inmates were known as the Roebucks, after a pub in Richmond, London.

Dr Pistol outlined the background where thousands of young men were sent to Australia in July 1940 on the Dunera, a British ship, to be interned as ‘enemy aliens’ during World War 2.

The internment of German-born males was a panic reaction to fear of Nazi invasion in 1940 and resulted in the imprisonment of Jews and other anti-fascists.

Nick Ross

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Rosenbluth was one of many Jews who volunteered for the British armed forces.

“We discovered this material in a black case when we were going through our late parents belongings,” Ross said. “Hans was Postmaster and the Secretary of the Camp so there is a huge amount of documentation, some of which can be seen at the

Migration Museum in Lewisham until June 2021.”

Dr Pistol added, “Nick has a treasure trove of material about Hay and his father’s archive gives us great insight into day to day life in the camp.”

BoD President Marie van der Zyl thanked Ross and Dr Pistol for sharing the story.

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Israel’s Sephardi Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef is under investigation for allegedly ignoring coronavirus health ministry lockdown restrictions.

Spiritual leader of an ultra-Orthodox community, as Israel’s official religious authority with a state salary he is expected to adhere to government policy.

Chief Rabbi Yosef was reported to Police by a northern-based rabbi.

Footage of the Chief Rabbi breaching Health Ministry measures have appeared online. Images reportedly show him not wearing a face mask, not socially distancing and holding communal events.

Chief Rabbi Yosef held a rally in Jerusalem last week that included dancing having called on Israelis to support health regulations as a religious decree.

Police confirmed a criminal investigation was underway on Monday.

Associates of the rabbi reportedly claim he has antibodies and has not contracted Covid-19.

They did however accept his face mask might slips off and an event last week should not have taken place. Organisers reportedly acted against measures.

A statement released from Chief Rabbi Yosef’s office reportedly said he “meticulously” follows the law and has called on citizens to do the same.

Stamford Hill hate attacks Police are investigating recent hate incidents in Stamford Hill.

A number of Jewish homes in Stamford Hill were daubed with crosses apparently painted in blood on Portland Avenue in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The incidents were reported by Jewish volunteer neighbourhood Stamford Hill Shomrim.

A Campaign Against Antisemitism spokesperson said, “This vandalism is grotesque and marks yet another escalation in the incidence of antisemitism in Stamford Hill. It is particularly concerning in view of the global rise of far-right antisemitism.”

CAA applauded Shomrim for their continued vigilance and called on the police to do everything possible to find the perpetrators of a “hideous crime”.

Details: Police on 101 or Stamford Hill Shomrim on 0300 999 0123, quoting reference number: CAD5149 10/01/21.

Police are also investigating a man armed with a large stick shouting abuse and chasing Jewish families walking to a synagogue in Stamford Hill.

According to witnesses, the man appeared to be following Jewish passers-by on Dunmore Road, January 2nd. The incident was reported by Jewish volunteer neighbourhood watch patrol Stamford Hill Shomrim.

Details: Police on 101 or Stamford Hill Shomrim on 0300 999 0123, quoting reference number: CAD5521 05/01/2021.

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14 JANUARY 2021

“ He threatened the integrity of the democratic system, interfered with the peaceful transition of power, and imperilled a coequal branch of Government.”

Trump’s impeachment process begins Donald Trump

BY DAVID SAFFER Donald Trump is the first US president in history to be impeached twice.

The House of Representatives passed an impeachment resolution against Trump yesterday for “incitement of insurrection” at last week’s Capitol riot.

“No one is above the law, not even the president of the United States,” said Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, who added that Trump is a “clear and present danger to our country”.

More Republicans than expected backed the bill. Liz Cheney said Trump “lit the flame” of the attack at the Capitol. The vote took place as US Vice President Mike Pence failed to invoke the 25th Amendment to oust Trump as “unfit for office”.

Trump faces a Senate trial set to take place into Joe Biden’s presidency. He will not attend president-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration on January 20. Pence will attend.

Extensive security plans are being ramped up after ABC News reported that the FBI warned about possible armed protests at all 50 state Capitols and Washington DC in the days leading up to Biden’s inauguration should Trump be ousted via the constitution.

According to reports 10,000 National Guard troops will be on duty in Washington by this weekend. A further 5,000 troops are on standby.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has called for extra security after the

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Whilst his legacy, for pro-Israel supporters, will cite moving the US embassy to Jerusalem aside from delivering the Abraham Accords with Gulf states, goodwill has now all but evaporated. “unprecedented terrorist attack” at the US Capitol. Bowser appealed to Americans not to travel to the city for the inauguration.

A quite unthinkable few days saw Democrats charge Trump with inciting followers to storm the Capitol building during a speech before last Wednesday’s deadly riot. Five people died and dozens of people, including over 60 police officers, were injured when rioters broke into the Capitol building.

US authorities have arrested and are continuing to track down ‘domestic extremists’.

Global condemnation followed live TV images that rocked the nation.

Trump finally broke his silence on Tuesday, describing his speech for supporters to protest at the Capitol as “totally appropriate”. Trump dismissed the Democrats impeachment bid to oust him for ‘inciting an insurrection’. “I think it’s causing tremendous danger to our country and it’s causing tremendous anger. I want no violence,” he said.

The Capitol fallout has been unrelenting and described as an ‘act of domestic terrorism’.

Pelosi, instigated impeachment proceedings on Monday. Republicans, as anticipated, blocked the Democrats resolution.

“President Trump gravely endangered the security of the United States and its institutions of Government,” proposed legislation noted. “He threatened the integrity of the democratic system, interfered with the peaceful transition of power, and imperilled a coequal branch of Government. He thereby betrayed his trust as President, to the manifest injury of the people of the United States.”

There have been ongoing calls for Trump’s resignation from Democrats, even by Republican senators, as a preferred option with growing concerns he will pardon himself, family members and Capitol rioters before Biden becomes the 46th US president.

Trump has courted controversy throughout his White House administration. His legacy, for pro-Israel supporters, will cite moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem aside from delivering the Abraham Accords with Gulf states, however goodwill has now all but evaporated.

Israeli leaders across the political divide,

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including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is among Trump’s greatest allies, joined Jewish leaders around the world condemning the Capitol riot.

Netanyahu, who has withdrawn a picture with Trump from his banner photo on his Twitter account, said that “lawlessness and violence” are the opposite to what Americans and Israelis cherish.

“The rampage at the Capitol was a disgraceful act that must be vigorously condemned,” he noted. “I have no doubt that American democracy will prevail, it always has.”

Netanyahu blasted the riot, whilst praising Trump as a regional peacemaker, in a press conference with US Secretary of Treasury, Steve Mnuchin, who had witnessed Sudan normalise ties with Israel.

President Reuven Rivlin called on Israelis to learn lessons from the Capitol events.

“With all of the election campaigns that we have had, and the painful questions that have been on the Israeli public agenda, the distance between us has grown perhaps greater than ever,” he said.

Rivlin added that if political gaps are deep Israel’s democracy can protect us as a people, society and state.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz said the assault was a reminder to leaders of a “moral obligation” to stand up for a democracy under attack. New Hope leader Gideon Sa’ar was “saddened” by images viewed around the world while Yesh Atid’s Yair Lapid noted that America must be a

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“Now is the time for all Americans of goodwill, regardless of political or ideological views, to rally behind President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris.”

Inside the Capitol Building

“role model” for democracies globally.

World Jewish Congress president Ronald S. Lauder condemned insurrectionist attempts to overturn the US election. He noted, “Now is the time for all Americans of goodwill, regardless of political or ideological views, to rally behind President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris.”

Meantime, US Republican Mary Miller has apologised over comments 24 hours before the riots when she referred to Hitler in a speech during a “Moms for America Save the Republic” rally looking to overturn

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

the election.

“Each generation has the responsibility to teach and train the next generation,” she said. “You know if we win a few elections, we’re still going to be losing unless we win the hearts and minds of our children. This is the battle. Hitler was right on one thing. He said, ‘Whoever has the youth has the future.’

Our children are being propagandised.”

Lauder lambasted the Illinois congresswoman. He noted, “One might expect this from white supremacists or neo-Nazis, but hearing the words “Hitler was right” from

the mouth of a member of the United States Congress is beyond acceptable behaviour by any standards.”

The US Holocaust Memorial Museum “unequivocally” condemned any leader trying to advance a position by claiming Hitler was “right.” They said in a statement, “Adolf Hitler’s Germany plunged Europe into the most destructive event in human history, World War II and the Holocaust resulting in the genocide of six million European Jews.”

Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League, added that using Hitler’s name was “wildly offensive”.

Congressional Democrats called on Miller to resign her seat in the House.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth condemned Miller’s “despicable” comments, adding, “It

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

NEWS 7 is absolutely repugnant, obscene and unacceptable for any American, let alone a supposed ‘leader’ serving in Congress, to claim Adolf Hitler was right about anything. To say that the perpetrator of the worst genocide in world history should be a model for any type of behaviour, much less the indoctrination of children with hatred, racism and fascist ideals, is disqualifying for an American elected official. “ Illinois Democrat, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, told reporters Miller’s comments were “reprehensible” and suggested she visit the Illinois Holocaust Museum.

House Republican Adam Kinzinger described Miller’s comments as “garbage”.

Jewish congresswoman Republican, Jan Schakowsky, joined Democrats in a statement slating Miller. They noted, “This repugnant comment, on a repugnant day, is a black mark on this body and a black mark on our state.”

Miller now regrets referring to Hitler to illustrate the dangers outside influences can have on youth.

She noted, “This dark history should never be repeated and parents should be proactive to instil what is good, true, right and noble into their children’s hearts and minds. While some are trying to intentionally twist my words to mean something antithetical to my beliefs, let me be clear, I’m passionately pro-Israel and I will always be a strong advocate and ally of the Jewish community. I’ve been in discussion with Jewish leaders across the country and am grateful to them for their kindness and forthrightness.”

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France has called on Israel to cancel proposals to build 800 homes in the West Bank.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the settlement initiative earlier this week.

No date has been set for building work in Beit El and Givat Zeev, north of Jerusalem, and Tal Menashe, Rehelim, Shavei Shomron, Barkan and Karnei Shomron in the northern West Bank. “(We) call on the parties to avoid any unilateral measures that could jeopardise the two-state solution founded on international law and agreed parameters,” a statement noted.

Palestinians labelled the decision ‘illegal’. The plan is viewed by critics as a last move before president-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration next week.

Biden is against settlement expansion and has made this point to Israel in the past. It is seen as a being an issue when his White House administration begins.

In Israel, opposition leader Yair Lapid described the announcement as an “irresponsible step”.

“The Biden administration has not yet taken office and the government is already leading us into an unnecessary confrontation,” he tweeted. “The national interest must also be maintained during elections.”

Israel disputes the viewpoint from countries stating West Bank settlements violate international law.

Among the settlements is Tel Manashe, where Esther Horgan was murdered last month.

There was a call to expand the settlement in response to the atrocity.

Netanyahu’s announcement is seen as benefiting his election bid in March.

The Palestinian Authority’s Foreign Ministry accused Israel of “racing against time” to build settlements before US President Donald Trump steps down.

Trump’s administration ended US policy on opposing settlements. Indeed, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo became the first major diplomat to visit a West Bank settlement last year.

“Calling the establishment of civilian settlements inconsistent with international law hasn’t worked,” he explained last November following the US change in stance.

“It hasn’t advanced the cause of peace.

The hard truth is there will never be a judicial resolution to the conflict and arguments about who is right and wrong as a matter of international law will not bring peace.

“The United States government is expressing no view on the legal status of any individual settlement. Israel and the Palestinians are the ones to discuss their final status.”

Pompeo added that history and circumstances presented the establishment of civilian settlements in the West Bank. And a complex political problem could only be solved by negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians.

Trump’s administration has recognised Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, relocated the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognised Israel’s annexation of the Golan Heights.

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Protests took place outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s official residence yesterday as Israel’s leader is set to attend his corruption trial when it resumes next month (February 8).

Police arrested a number of demonstrators for disorderly conduct.

Calls for Netanyahu to resign over the trial and the government’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic have been ongoing for months.

Netanyahu was indicted last year on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust surrounding three corruption cases. He denies all charges citing a “witch hunt” against him.

The court postponed a hearing due to the nationwide lockdown. It now takes place six weeks before the general election on March 23.

Netanyahu has begun preparations for a fourth election in less than two years and polls currently show the Likud party will pick

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up more than rivals though again will struggle to form a coalition.

Netanyahu is pushing for Israeli Arabs votes in the overall coalition mix.

A Channel 13 television poll suggested Likud would gain 31 seats, five down from May 2020.

Gideon Sa’ar’s New Hope Party and opposition leader Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid Party have 16 seats each, Naftali Bennett’s Yamina Party 13, Arab Joint List 10, Shas and United Torah Judaism 7, Avigdor Liberman’s Yisrael Beytenu 6, The Israelis and Meretz 5 followed by Blue and White 4.

Benny Gantz’s party has been decimated since the unity coalition was set up with Netanyahu less than a year ago. The coalition has been beset by political differences since its inception and only lasted due to the ongoing battle with the pandemic.

Minister of Jerusalem and Heritage Affairs Rafi Peretz stepped down as Jewish Home leader last week and will not run for Knesset.

The coming weeks are set to see the election campaign dominate Israeli media.

14 JANUARY 2021

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel faces a “mighty race” in the spread of the deadly coronavirus disease and distribution of vaccines according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Updating Israelis on the dual challenge during a visit to Leumit Health Services in Ashdod on Tuesday, Netanyahu was hopeful Israel will hit a world record 170,000 daily vaccinations today and anticipates a mass vaccination program ending in March.

“We are in a mighty race between two events, the spread of the disease and the distribution of the vaccines,” he said. “We are ahead of the whole world in vaccines with the millions of vaccines that we have brought. HMOs and our health system are doing heroic work. We are fighting the spread of the disease which has reached tens of thousands of verified cases a day.

This is a very rapid pace.”

Netanyahu called on Israelis to be vaccinated but warned that everyone can carry the disease so social distancing measures, washing hands and wearing masks was essential.

“We can finish this very quickly but only if we work together, to be vaccinated and to follow the rules,” he said. “I am directing this request to every citizen of Israel because the virus does not differentiate between us.”

Health Minister Yuli Edelstein, National Security Council head Meir Ben-Shabbat, Ashdod Mayor Dr. Yechiel Lasri, Leumit chairman Yaakov Edri and CEO Haim Fernandes were among dignitaries at the event.

Netanyahu’s comments came 24 hours before the Health Ministry announced over 9,000 new coronavirus cases for a second consecutive day. There are 1,042 people being treated in hospitals with 262 on ventilators. There have been 3,770 fatalities.

Jerusalem is a Covid-19 hotspot with 15,491 people battling the virus, followed

by Bnei Brak 4,178, Modi’in Illit 3,214, Beit Shemesh 2,416 and Tel Aviv 2,164.

Due to the spike, the Health Ministry expects the latest two-week lockdown that started last Thursday to be extended until the end of January.

The ministry also announced that by Tuesday, 1,880,163 people had received a dose of the Pfizer vaccine and is preparing an exit strategy over three phases. Education institutions will open initially.

Within hours of Netanyahu’s call over measures, embarrassing photos emerged of Transportation Minister Miri Regev attending a birthday office celebration.

Regev has backed a ban on public gatherings of over five people indoors but images published show the minister among 14 people around a table not wearing face mask.

A spokesperson for Regev said she “passed by for a few minutes” and told those present not to “flaunt regulations”.

Regev was not wearing a face mask in the room.

This is not the first time Regev has violated health regulations.

In related news, Netanyahu and Edelstein welcomed a shipment of Pfizer vaccines at Ben-Gurion Airport last Sunday.

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Israel in “mighty race” over Covid spread and vaccine distribution

Miri Regev

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Due to spike, the Health Ministry expects the latest two-week lockdown that started last Thursday to be extended until the end of January.

“This is a great day for the State of Israel with a huge shipment that has arrived in the framework of Operation Back to Life, a plane full of injections of encouragement,” he said. “Today, over 72% of our people over 60 have been vaccinated.”

This Sunday, another shipment is due for people aged 50-60 and up.

Whilst the vaccination initiative has been lauded globally, issues remain. A number of Charedi communities have flouted government orders by reopening schools and holding mass events despite calls for adherence from leading rabbis.

The situation has frustrated ministers and police.

Earlier this week, ultra-Orthodox residents in Ashdod clashed with police when authorities closed a yeshiva ignoring lockdown measures. A number of arrests were made when protesters blocked roads.

The Ashdod Municipality said rioters attacked the security forces with “rocks and sticks”. The incident came a day after

various yeshivas in Jerusalem reopened along with illegal gatherings for simchas.

Meantime, hospitals are struggling with increased cases. “The situation is difficult,” Prof. Zvi Friedlander, Hadassah Medical Centre, reportedly said. “We are opening more and more coronavirus wards. Over the weekend, my ward was turned into one. The number of hospitalisations is approaching the peak of the second wave and now stands at more than 130. During the last wave, we reached 150 but now that number just keeps rising. Many of the patients are in serious condition and unfortunately, some of them die too.”

Dr. Bibiana Hazan, Infectious Diseases unit at Emek Medical Centre in Afula, reportedly noted, “The number of patients and those that are connected to ventilators changes all the time. Both of our dedicated wards are full. Alongside the challenging treatment of serious patients, of course, there is also the treatment of other patients who are doing better but who also

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require close attention as their condition can change very rapidly.”

Hazan said infection rates had hit staff as the hospital was in an “infection hotspot”.

“We are experiencing serious morbidity among staff not only within the hospital, but outside it as well,” she reportedly said.

“We are short many workers because they are either in quarantine or have actually tested positive for coronavirus. We have 180 staff in quarantine, which is insane.

Six to seven percent of our staff are in isolation and it keeps growing every day.”

Rabin Medical Centre in Petah Tikva, near Tel Aviv, have the most coronavirus patients outside Jerusalem.

Israel has now tightened restrictions on movement, schools and trade. In spite of localised issues, it has had a beneficial effect.

“There may be some reason for optimism, because the graph indicating the infection rate has not risen exponentially, but has started to curve a bit,” Coronavirus czar Prof. Nachman Ash reportedly said on Sunday. “One can look at this with an optimistic view in the face of the vaccination drive and the current closure.”

“We hope to see a decrease in the number of seriously ill in the coming days,” he added. “We estimate that the first effect of the vaccines is after about 10 days, so we should already start seeing its effects.”

Ash confirmed no date had been set to end restrictions.

“Currently we are thinking what the criteria should be for ending the closure,” he reportedly noted. “We are deliberating whether we should lift it or recommend its continuation. If we see a decrease in the seriously ill cases, we can lift the closure even if the number of daily infections is higher than what we initially planned.

Therefore, we have not set a clear target.”

Ash backed Netanyahu’s narrative that all Israeli citizens from 16 years of age would receive a coronavirus vaccination.

“We want to get a vaccine for a significant portion of the population, five million vaccinated by the end of March and the beginning of April,” he reportedly said.

“We have reached a capacity of 150,000 vaccinated daily. In a few days we will have to give the same amount of the second vaccine dose.

“To that add the newly vaccinated who need to receive the second dose. Hence, we want to increase the number of daily vaccinations to as many as 200,000.”

Ash also championed using the Moderna vaccine from Germany. To date, Israel has used the Pfizer vaccine.

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OPINION

The opinions on this page do not reflect the opinions of this Newspaper

Impeachment attempt will increase American division OPINION PIECE

BY JAMES J MARLOW This second attempt by the Democrats to impeach the President, days before he will step down from office, is designed to further tarnish his image and destroy his legacy. Nancy Pelosi and company, wish to portray Donald Trump as an “exception” and “historical accident” in American history.

But in reality, the Democrats now have control of both Houses and the White House, and need to stop playing “petty politics” and instead focus on programmes and policies that are urgently needed, to cope with the health and economic crisis.

The Democrats have absolutely no chance of getting an impeachment through the Senate by 20 January, and so this move will simply increase the polarised divisions within American society.

Donald Trump leaves behind a huge legacy with major achievements on both the foreign and domestic fronts. When he took office in 2016, he arguably prevented war with North Korea by giving its leader, Kim Jong-un, a world platform.

Trump stood up to China and slapped huge tariffs on their imported goods, which is how American factories re-opened and large numbers from the black and Hispanic communities were back at work, manufacturing American goods.

The President rightly told NATO that they had to pay their fair share of the huge defence budget, and they did. He stood up to the EU, Iran and the Palestinians, cancelling the UNRWA funding in Gaza and shutting down the PLO office in Washington DC, for paying terrorists to kill Israelis.

Trump’s legacy includes the American Embassy, recognition of the Golan and the main Jewish

communities in Judea and Samaria.

The normalisation of ties between Israel and UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco, Bhutan, Kosovo and Oman, would never have happened without Donald Trump. Today, significant trade and business takes place between Israel and the Gulf States.

But when the dust settled after last week’s violence, which left five people dead, including a police officer, I wrote elsewhere that this was perpetrated by a group of radical thugs, totally opposed to the rule of law and order, and it is to be condemned in the highest form. We now know that some of those arrested were NOT Trump supporters.

But the vast majority were, and some came from farright Neo-Nazi groups.

At the rally, Trump, said, “We’re gonna walk down

Donald Trump

to the Capital and we’re going to cheer on, our brave Senators and Congress-Men and Woman, and we’re probably not going to be cheering for some of them, because you’ll never take back our country with weakness, you have to show strength and you have to be strong”.

This in my view, added “fuel to the fire,” to a bunch of thugs who don’t know their right from their left, and they were under the impression, “the election has been stolen from us”.

Even worse, one of the most secure buildings in the United States is penetrated so easily by a mob, demanding, “Stop the Steal.” They broke into the chamber, whilst elected Congress members and employees crouched under desks, hiding in fear for their lives.

Having said this, I will NOT be bullied in condemning the Trump legacy. You can disagree with his brash style and approach and you can criticise him for “pushing a button” last week, just to see what would happen.

But overall, Trump got things done and more than 74 million people voted for him.

Donald Trump pulled off some of the most remarkable things, and we must never forget that. For this I say, thank you Mr President.

Many elected Democrats appeared on CNN and MSNBC last year and called for large scale demonstrations, including spotting Cabinet Members in restaurants or stores, create a crowd and show them they are not welcome. Vice President Elect, Kamala Harris called for “Unrest on the streets”, while Nancy Pelosi called Trump supporters “Enemies of the State.”

A Missouri State PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK Senator said, “I hope

Donald Trump is assassinated,” while a news commentator said “They are going to have to put a bullet in Donald Trump and that’s a fact”.

A celebrity holds a “bloody” head of Donald Trump, while Madonna opined at a rally, “I have thought an awful lot about blowing up the White House.” CNN anchor-man Chris Cuomo said, “Show me where it says protests are supposed to be polite and peaceful”.

In response the anti-Donald Trump camp and much of the media say to me, “Don’t you dare bring up Antifa”. But what about the Court House in Portland that was bombed nightly for a month – how was that allowed to happen?

This is America we are talking about, not some small African nation.

If there is no respect or tolerance to exercise a democratic right to vote for whoever you choose, without fear of intimidation or violence, then it’s anarchy. They say, “You CAN vote, but if I disagree with your choice, you are an extremist”.

There must be one set of principles for both sides. But in this polarised society, the media and many voters become so entrenched, they fail to see what is happening to their democracy. Have we learnt nothing from history?

President Elect Joe Biden insisted, “This is a time of reconciliation and coming together”. So Democrats, stop the crazy impeachment process and leave the Republican Party to sort out their own issues. Begin the healing process and move on.

The stage is set for Joe Biden to take over the White House and we must all come together and be ready for the next chapter in American politics.

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

Communal responsiblity to stop the spread and save lives OPINION PIECE

BY MARIE VAN DER ZYL, PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DEPUTIES OF BRITISH JEWS This week we had the grim news that, in the week ending 8 January, the Jewish community had suffered 43 deaths.

To put these figures into perspective, this is the highest figure since 17 April which was the very peak of the first wave of the pandemic. At this point, there is no indication that we have reached the height of this current wave. Therefore, there is every chance that the coming weeks will bring even more tragic news.

There cannot be many of us who do not

have a friend, colleague or acquaintance who has died from this dreadful illness.

On the news we see our wonderful doctors and nurses doing everything within their power to save the lives of people struggling to take a breath. Then we see the relatives of the dead distraught over the awful way their loved ones died – alone without the possibility of finding comfort from their nearest and dearest.

There is nothing more important in our religion than saving a life. Pikuach nefesh is the concept that saving a human life is more important than any mitzvot. For the next few weeks, this must be the priority for all of us. As I write, the elderly and the vulnerable are having their first dose of vaccine – we are lucky to be living in an age in which such rapid scientific progress

is saving lives. I want all of my friends and relatives to benefit from this wonderful treatment.

What this means in practice is that every one of us has a serious responsibility to look after ourselves and, even more importantly to look after one another.

Government medical advice is currently to stay at home – you can leave for exercise, medical care and to buy essentials for your family, and of course many frontline workers have to work to ensure that the rest of us can manage at this time. We have been told to act as if we have the virus – that means wearing masks, washing hands, maintaining a safe space and not putting ourselves or our loved ones at any risk.

We are all missing contact with friends and family. I know many people are on

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their own without any company for days and weeks on end – this is very hard. We cannot hug our elderly parents or our children and grandchildren if they don’t live with us. Many synagogues have closed their doors voluntarily despite currently being allowed to stay open by the Government for fear that this new variant could spread even through socially distanced prayer.

I can’t wait to see everyone again and I know all of you feel the same. If the vaccination programme is rolled out efficiently, there is a chance that something near to normal life could return in time for Pesach celebrations but if we have to wait a little longer, we will. If we observe the rules we will save lives and there is no mitzvah greater than that.

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Covid comment OPINION PIECE

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Vaccines are not all from the same stable but are created in a multitude of subtypes; some are ‘live,’ eg.

MMR, flu, BCG, shingles; these establish a low, weakened load of the pathogen, which the body then fights. Some others are toxoid, made with inactivated versions of toxins, but are not actually poisonous; these include whooping cough and tetanus. The covid vaccine is not like either of these, but is known as a RNA vaccine and we need to appreciate that second doses of it are not formulated to be the same as the first. Here, the first serves to prime the

immune system to recognise the pathogen, and the second to boost significantly the protection afforded by the first dose.

Professor Peter Taylor, from UCL, says that there is no evidence to suggest that a single dose will give adequate protection, particularly in the most vulnerable groups, nor that a gap of 12 weeks [between doses] will provide sufficient protection. This is worrying as it looks as if we are being driven by a political agenda, ie expediency to tick the numbers box, which could result in further deaths amongst groups who believed they were now out-of-thewoods. He added, ‘the Government is undertaking a massive experiment and potentially putting lives at risk.’ Russia, with its population of 160 million, has a 2 dose vaccine - the Sputnik V - but is

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.

also trialling a [less effective] single dose version, to send to badly hit counties.

China, with a population of 1.3 billion, is waging all out war on the virus, and has locked down the city of Shijiazhuang (pop. 11 million), following 103 new cases.

You read that right. Not 103,000, but 103.

Medics are deployed to do mass testing, home swabs, contact tracing, they have created new testing stations and have closed railway stations, bus terminals and initiated vehicular checkpoints. Those quarantining are subject to severe constraints, such as having alarms on doors, which alert neighbourhood guards. They aim to get Shijiazhuang tested in 3 days, and up to 50 million nationals jabbed by the Chinese New Year on Feb 12. Okay, we do not live in a communist controlled regime, but we could possibly adopt some of the less aggressive measures. Masks must surely be non-negotiable. Why have our politicians and scientists - some of the most advanced in the world - permitted apathy in public compliance? Worse, why

OPINION 11

allow the Government to adopt a single dose policy?

We have finally, FINALLY, brought in mandatory covid tests before passengers are allowed to fly {but where would you go?}. Enforced quarantine for flight arrivals and those who test positive, is still off the table, despite being actioned elsewhere. Israel has delivered its vaccine to 20% of its population, using reserve medics to assist, all working round the clock. Here, there has been a hue and cry over pharmacists not being granted permission to help, which is madness, as you can of course go to Boots the Chemist for your flu shot, or your travel jabs. Why not the covid vaccine? It’s not as if pharmacists are bungling amateurs. Giving them the green light would further obviate people being required to travel between 10 and 40 miles for their jab. Let’s get the show properly ‘on the road’ and not promise the country will be vaccinated by autumn. That is pathologically ridiculous and politically unforgivable.

THANKS TO RABBI SHOCHET Dear Editor Many thanks indeed to Rabbi Shochet for his moving and heartfelt response to the reader’s question What’s in a Name?

My Hebrew name is in fact Yenta Gitel, after my paternal grandmother.

I was called Glenda at school and later in business, yet all through my upbringing my dear parents instilled in me a deep love for my Hebrew name, regularly calling me by it and reminding me that I had been named after a special and spiritual lady.

I am so grateful to them and so glad to have been called after Yenta Gitel Haltrecht a great, great granddaughter of Rabbi Noach miLisser.

Yours sincerely Glenda Aussenberg

IN PRAISE OF JAMES MARLOW Dear Editor What an amazing article by James Marlow on Jonathan Pollard who tore apart that dreadful woman from the other Jewish newspaper. Her hatred for Netanyahu, religion, Jonathan Pollard and even recently, writing about her opposition to the vaccine, is a disgrace. Jenni Frazer does the very thing, she claims others do, and that is “incites” lies, because, she can.

We need more people like Mr Marlow who is not afraid to stand up and speak, or in tis case, write what is on his mind, in such an articulate and easy to understand way.

May he be blessed with continued good communications skills articulate speech.

Yours sincerely Mr T Goldstein Dear Editor I speak for many when I write, thank you to Mr James Marlow’s opinion piece last week, writing on Jonathan Pollard and his arrival to Israel.

I was also shocked to read the absolute trash in the other Jewish newspaper, but sadly so many are influenced, by what they print.

Whatever you are paying Mr Marlow, you should double it, because he definitely represents mainstream opinion and reasonable thought and needs a large platform.

Yours sincerely Avi Sadeh Dear Editor Really appreciate Mr James Marlow’s opinion piece each week in your paper, and last week was exceptional on Jonathan Pollard.

We hope Mr Marlow will commence with his Israel election analysis shortly and background to the different political parties.

Yours sincerely Mrs K Graff

A RESPONSE TO J.D. MILARIC’S LETTER OF 10TH DECEMBER Dear Editor I am happily responding to the poem, “A RESPONSE TO J. D. MILARIC’S LETTER OF 10TH DECEMBER,” by Mrs E Salomon which was published in last week’s edition, (THE JEWISH WEEKLY, 7 January) To Mrs E Salomon, Over Shabbat, as is my want, I read this week’s edition of THE JEWISH WEEKLY (7 January) When I came upon On the “Letters to the Editor” page, to my surprise a poem, that was directly addressed to me By you, Mrs Salomon That you have read my letters in the Jewish Press over many years made my day And a Shabbat to remember Even more so that you took the time and trouble in such a lovely poem to convey Your certainty about my gender Thank you very much for your kind comments and condolences to my family and me They were much appreciated Yes, Baruch Hashem, we should all have a better year in 2021 than we did in 2020 With this pandemic put to bed The Jewish Weekly, if they publish my poem, will have acted as a conduit For some positive sentiments from us Being such a wonderful publication for the Jewish community, long may it Continue being so, unlike Coronavirus J D Milaric

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Former chair of British Emunah launches book on bereavement

Left to right: Chana Kanzen, Joanne Greenaway, Lauren Hamburger

LSJS creates thriving educational hub in the heart of Hendon Mindy Wiesenberg with her late husband Johnny

More than 350 people attended the launch of a new book written by the former chair of British Emunah, inspired by how she coped after the loss of her husband.

Mindy Wiesenberg wrote Healing Pathways – A Journey Through Life’s Challenges after almost a decade of dealing with illness and bereavement, including the death of husband Johnny three years ago.

The launch, which was broadcast live on Zoom and Facebook, saw Mindy talk about her experiences and how they can help others who are struggling now, especially during this time of pandemic.

Speaking afterwards, Mindy said “In the past nine years I have gone through a long journey dealing with numerous cancer treatments and then, in the middle of it all, three years ago my husband of 40 years suddenly and unexpectedly died.

“Having to deal with a serious illness

and then a sudden bereavement left me trying to find the best ways I could heal myself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually from these traumas.

“I realised that so much of what I learnt could help others going through challenges in their lives and so I decided to write this book about my experiences.”

All profits from the book are going to British Emunah, to help the charity’s work supporting thousands of at-risk children and families in Israel.

Mindy – who has been involved with British Emunah for more than 35 years – added: “I hope that my book will not only help those who read it, but also many of those wonderful children and families in Israel who Emunah cares for too.”

For more details please visit www.emunah. org.uk or purchase the book via Amazon.

The London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) is delighted to welcome more Jewish education organisations to join their Wohl Campus for Jewish Education. Recently, Yad Vashem UK, March of the Living UK, Montefiore Endowment, PJ Library and Jewish Interactive have joined bringing the total number of organisations on campus to 14.

Chief Executive Joanne Greenaway says, “We are thrilled to be able to welcome so many fantastic organisations on to our campus. At LSJS we are committed to delivering an inspiring education programme which transmits a love of learning and achieves excellence in teaching to transform the UK Jewish community. One of the ways we achieve this is by creating a thriving, dynamic hub of Jewish educational excellence at the heart of the community and by collaborating with other organisations. I am excited about working with all of our campus partners in the future” LSJS now has the following organisations on its’ campus: Yad Vashem UK, March of the Living UK, Montefiore Endowment, PaJeS, Etgar, JVN, Mizrachi UK, Malki Foundation, Stand With

Us, PJ Library, Jewish Interactive as well as Alei Tzion and Tzur Yisrael.

Celebrating Chanukah this year at LSJS has been a great opportunity for the campus to try to come together, whilst still maintaining social distancing rules.

Lauren Hamburger, Director of PJ Library UK “I am delighted that PJ Library will be moving into LSJS! We are committed to strengthening Jewish identity in the home for young families through children’s books and activities. LSJS feels like a natural home for us, given the other impressive charities based there, that are also working towards our common goal. I can’t wait for us all to be on the Bet Meir campus together so we can share ideas and resources to benefit the whole community. “ Chana Kanzen, CEO of Jewish Interactive “When JI started in 2013 we held the launch of our first product - Shabbat Interactive - at LSJS. It is somewhat poetic to now, 7 years later, to be a part of a campus that supports so many Jewish educational projects and charities and we are looking forward to many positive collaborations, that ultimately will benefit the wider community as a result.”

Art therapy research

BY ESTHER ULLMAN

07807 254 142

020 8455 7246

mail@nlscaffolding.co.uk NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL www.nlscaffolding.co.uk

Miss Chava Erlanger, a therapeutic artist based in Salford, has been working with the Manchester University’s and St Mary’s Hospital to assist women who have unfortunately suffered a miscarriage.

Part of the goal of the project, which is being funded by The Welcome Trust, is to carry out research into what can prevent miscarriage and understand the connection between stillbirths and trauma, lifestyle, and nutrition. The information being gathered will help understanding to be gained as to what the causes of miscarriages are, and inasmuch as there are emotional causes, how art therapy can heal those issues, thereby preventing miscarriages.

The therapeutic benefits of art have been

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experienced by those who have participated in several ways. Both the non-verbal expression of their emotions whilst creating their works of art as well as the (virtual) connection with women struggling with similar experiences, have a positive impact on the recovery process of the participants.

Around one in two hundred women in the UK suffer from a miscarriage at any given stage of pregnancy and the Jewish community is no exception to this.

The message the project organisers would like to send to those who have suffered a stillbirth is: “You are not alone. There is help out there, from Jewish charities such as JAMH which will be running sessions for people who suffered a miscarriage during lockdown, and there is free counselling for whoever is struggling”.

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Resource launches dedicated student employment support service A consequence of the pandemic has been that demand for help in finding and securing employment is running at higher than ever rates at Resource, the Jewish community’s ‘go-to’ job search support organisation. Students and recent graduates have been particularly hard hit.

As Resource’s Chief Executive Victoria Sterman explains: “Although over recent years we have been running events and seminars to help those who are about to finish, or have recently finished their studies, work opportunities have been shrinking in line with the economy and it has become evident an even more concerted effort was needed to support this cohort.

“We have had a long and successful relationship with the Union of Jewish Students, and as employment is a key concern for their members they were keen to partner with us in launching this unique new service.

“Whatever students or graduates need, whether it’s help with application forms, video interview skills, CV development, or if they are applying for internships or looking for interim or full-time work – even if they simply want advice on career planning – we’re here to help.

“Students can book a one-to-one

A student has one to one meeting with dedicated Resource Advisor

45-60-minute video slot with a Resource professional advisor. If they wish, they can also attend one or more of our specialist webinars that cover every aspect of finding employment. And as with all Resource programmes, thanks to the generosity of our volunteers and donors, everything is provided free.”

Slots are bookable by calling 020 8346 4000 or emailing events@resource-centre.org and further details are available at www. resource-centre.org.

JNF UK masks arrive in Israel

Mask designs (left to right) - Monty Stateman, Eden, Keitlin Bambans

Children across the south of Israel are now wearing colourful new masks – designed by three pupils from the UK. In November 2020 JNF UK ran a national competition that resulted in nearly 1000 pupils from 14 different schools submitting mask designs that they had drawn and painted themselves. With the help of a panel of judges, three entries from three different age groups were chosen.

The three designs have now been manufactured and are being distributed to hundreds of pupils across the south of Israel, providing the children with vibrant masks that also keep them safe.

Three schools are receiving the masks: Gevim School in Be’er Sheva, Noam School in Bnei Dekalim, and Eli Cohen School in Kiryat Malachi. All three locations are areas

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WORKING IN COOPERATION TO BUILD A STRONGER ISRAEL THROUGH ALIYAH

Every one of us, together

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that JNF UK has an ongoing relationship with as part of its commitment to investing in Israel’s peripheral regions.

Israel Yokel, Headmaster of Noam School, commented: “We are very grateful to have been chosen to receive these wonderful masks with their beautiful designs. It means a lot to be given these reminders of the connection between the Jewish people here and our Jewish family abroad. We are looking forward to seeing you again soon!”

The three winners were: Ages 3-5: Monty Stateman (3) from Brodetsky Primary School, Leeds.

Ages 6-8: Keitlin Bambans (7) from Mathilda Marks-Kennedy School, London.

Ages 9-11: Eden (10) from Etz Chaim, London.

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Work Avenue announce new bursary fund A new bursary fund has already allocated more than £30,000 in grants to help members of the Jewish community undertake vocational training courses.

The Richard Mintz Bursary Fund – which is run by Work Avenue and honours the charity’s late trustee – started funding courses from January. Its goal is to help those trying to find work, or hoping to increase their earning potential, but who cannot afford the high cost of training or retraining.

As well as a grant, applicants also receive the support of Work Avenue – the Jewish community’s leading employment and business support organisation – in selecting the right course, undertaking any additional training and then finding a job or setting up a business at the end of it.

Two people who are currently benefiting are Binyomin Samuel and Emily Zinkin.

Binyomin is studying bookkeeping and looking to re-enter the workplace after a six-year break due to back problems. He says a grant of just over £1,000 has helped him start his course with “hope rather than dread”.

The 39-year-old, who has four children, told us: “I was a shomer for 15 years, but I took voluntary redundancy six years ago when I started having health problems and they changed my hours so I’d have been away from home from 4.30am until 8.30pm every day. Then my back got worse and I had to leave the workplace altogether.

“I am keen to get back to work but knew I needed a change of career. I have always been good with numbers, and worked at an accountant when I was younger, so bookkeeping seemed like the obvious route and one with good job opportunities at the end of it.

Belinda’s lockdown crafts

Belinda has suffered steady deterioration and was diagnosed with a debilitating neuro-inflammatory disorder, called neuromyelitis optica. It is a daily struggle of numerous physical impairments including mobility, respiratory, gastrointestinal, visual, continence and many others. She also has relentless, excruciating pain.

Despite these trials and tribulations, Belinda tackles life with a consistently positivite attitude and a remarkable ability to always see the bright side. This, together with her extraordinarily enthusiastic and philosophical outlook on life, is a true

17 years ago, a youthful young lady, Belinda Rodin contracted a virus causing inflammation on her spinal cord. This left her legs paralysed and her arms and upper body severely disabled. Since then,

“But the cost of the course I needed to go on was over £1,250 – which is a lot of money to find, especially in the current time.

“So when I got the email with confirmation of the bursary, it was a huge weight off my shoulders. It was like a burden had been lifted.

“It means I can now start the course with hope rather than the dread of worrying about how I will pay for it.”

Emily has been working in a communications and outreach role caught in “the middle of the worst possible venn diagram of live events, tourism and charity”.

It left the 28-year-old evaluating where she wanted to go with her career, but her desire to move towards outreach and education hit a major stumbling block. All the jobs on her radar asked for a CIPD Learning & Development Diploma… and the cost was more than £3,000.

Emily said: “It is a 12-18 month course and very in-depth, so the cost is fair – but it’s just not something I can afford.

“I kept thinking of ways around the cost – for example finding an employer who would pay some of the cost – but had almost given up hope, when an email from Work Avenue about the fund landed in my inbox. It seemed like fate!

“I put in my initial application the same day and was overjoyed when I heard I’d been accepted. I’ve already told my friends, and the community in the Moishe House I run, about it.

“Trying to change careers in the middle of a pandemic is a big task, but just starting on the course opens up so many new doors for me. I will be forever grateful.”

To find out more about the fund, and apply in confidence, please visit www.theworkavenue.org.uk/rmbf/.

Some of Belinda’s crafts

inspiration to all those who know and love her.

Lockdown has been particularly difficult with no visitors allowed. Belinda has kept very busy building beuatiful crafts, which is challenging with limited sight and only movement in hands not arms. As GIFT is a charity that has supported Belinda over the years, she would now like to ‘Give it forward’ and make these crafts to order for a donation for GIFT. To purchase Belinda’s exquisite crafts, go to the link https://gift.enthuse.com/cf/ belinda

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World leaders mourn passing of “Jewish patriot” Adelson

BY DAVID SAFFER World leaders have mourned the loss of Jewish philanthropist and billionaire casino mogul Sheldon Adelson who passed away on Tuesday aged 87.

A major supporter of the State of Israel and US Republican Party, he donated to a myriad of Israeli and Jewish causes.

Founder of Las Vegas Sands Corp, Adelson was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2019 and was receiving treatment. His funeral took place in Israel.

“He was the proudest of Jews, who saw in the State of Israel not only the realisation of a historical promise to a unique and deserving people, but also a gift from the A-lmighty to all of humanity,” his Israeli-born wife Miriam, said.

She added, “When the COVID-19 crisis hit and those hotels went dark, he insisted that our tens of thousands of Team Members continue getting their wages and medical insurance. Each of those people, and millions of other beneficiaries of Sheldon’s largesse, are his testimonials.”

A memorial service will take place in Las Vegas at a later date.

A supporter of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s leader mourned Adelson’s passing, describing him as a “great Jewish patriot”.

“An incredible champion of the Jewish people, the Jewish state and the alliance

A major supporter of the State of Israel and US Republican Party, he donated to a myriad of Israeli and Jewish causes. between Israel and America,” he said.

“Sheldon unabashedly loved America and cherished the freedom and opportunity it gave him. He worked tirelessly to ensure that very same freedom and opportunity would be given to others in America and around the world. The warmth of his heart, the clarity of his thinking and the decisiveness of his actions were truly exceptional.”

Netanyahu added, “From humble beginnings in a suburb of Boston, he rose to be one of world’s greatest entrepreneurs and philanthropists. With his wife Miri he contributed endlessly to strengthening the Jewish people and the Jewish state, funding breakthroughs in medicine and science and advancing higher education. He gave anonymously to help victims of terror and countless other people in need.”

Amongst many tributes in Israel, President Reuven Rivlin said on Twitter that Adelson loved the Jewish people and Israel, was a great American patriot, and strengthened the bonds between Israel and America with boundless generosity.

Isaac Herzog, former opposition leader and Jewish Agency chief, described

Adelson as “one of the leaders of the Jewish people in our generation, one of the pillars of Jewish education in the world.”

Israeli Minister Yoav Gallant noted, “The State of Israel and the people of Israel were the most important thing. Along with generous donations, most of them in secret, he harnessed his enormous influence and his vast fortune for the State of Israel and the security of its citizens.”

Naftali Bennett, New Right Party, said Adelson will forever be recorded in the annals of the State of Israel. He added, “Sheldon worked day and night to strengthen the Jewish people throughout the world.

For the strengthening of Israel’s security, for the diversity of opinions in Israel, and for the preservation of the integrity of the Land of Israel.”

Adelson was awarded the President Medal of Freedom by US President Trump in 2018. He switched from the Democratic to Republican Party. “I didn’t leave the Democrats. They left me,” Adelson said.

Tributes poured in from across the political divide and business world in the United States.

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Former President George W. Bush said, “He was an American patriot. Sheldon was a generous benefactor of charitable causes, especially medical research and Jewish heritage education.”

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo noted, “The world, Israel and the United States are safer because of his work of medicine, education and the lives of Jewish-Americans.

His political involvement strengthened our democracy.”

Nikki Haley, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., wrote on Twitter: “Sheldon lived a true American life. Born from humble beginnings he achieved extraordinary things. He was a defender of America, a champion of Israel and a friend. His good deeds and legacy will continue to shape the lives of millions.”

U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Freidman noted, “While blessed with vast wealth, he had exceptional humility and faith. No one will fill his shoes.”

Former U.S. House Speaker John Boehner commented, “He was an entrepreneur who believed deeply in the American dream and free enterprise and felt a responsibility to use the fruits of his work to do what he believed was necessary to help keep those things alive for others.

We didn’t agree on everything, but there was never any doubt about the strength of his commitment to opportunity, or the generosity of his spirit, and he always had my respect.”

Bill Miller, American Gaming Association president and CEO, added, “Adelson was a true visionary and pioneer of modern casino gaming for more than three decades. From Las Vegas and Pennsylvania to Macao and Singapore, his mark is indelible. It is his leadership and generosity that stand out the most to me.”

Sheldon was born in 1933 and grew up in the Dorchester neighbourhood of Boston.

His mother, Sarah (née Tonkin), hailed from Ukraine and ran a knitting shop, his father, Arthur Adelson, was a taxi driver.

Chairman, CEO, and principal owner of Las Vegas Sands Corp, he had a seven-decade career in the US and Asia as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist.

Adelson’s rags-to-riches story started from the age of 12 selling newspapers on street corners, in the years that followed he worked as a mortgage broker, investment adviser and finance consultant.

Adelson, who served the US Army, created and developed more than 50 companies, among them Comdex, the world’s largest trade show for the computer industry.

The Adelson’s funded medical research in neurology, immunology and oncology.

Adelson divorced his first wife, Sandra, in 1988. They adopted three children, Mitchell, Gary and Shelley. Mitchell died in 2005. With Miriam, he had two sons, Adam and Matan.

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From the front line…

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Trump has finally blown his cover.

I would have said ‘trumpet,’ but that would have been too close an analogy to the rallying cry he made to the supporters who stormed the Capitol building last week. He has shown - if ever there was a shadow of doubt - that he is mentally unstable, and quite rightly the Democrats want him removed (at best), or impeached (even better). None expected him to 'go quietly,' but his deranged performance has damaged not just his standing and his party, but America as a nation. With only one Jacqueline Curzon week left of his presidency, one must PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY wait with bated breath to see if he will do something even more radical or appalling to celebrate the end of his tenure. FBI intelligence indicates that pro-Trump supporters across 50 states are planning armed protests at the time of Joe Biden’s inauguration.

This is a very worrying scenario, prompting decisions to ramp up security, quite a feat considering security at such an event is usually impenetrable.

1 in15 of us are believed to be infected For a man who thought he had a reasonawith coronavirus, with 80,000 daily cases ble chance at re-election, he has metaphoremerging. Almost 81,000 have died in the ically shot himself in the head. Never again UK, with demographics showing that 50% will we hear the words President Trump, of these are in the 80+ age group, with a not after he ignominiously departs the further 30% falling into the 60-79 group. grounds of the White House, and it won't 200,000 vaccinations are taking place each come a minute too soon. Even the Profesday, but - considering the virus is travelling sional Golfers’ Association has distanced at warp speed - this is patently not enough, itself from Trump, voting to terminate their if jabs are not being delivered around the agreement to hold the 2022 PGA Championship at Trump Bedminster, in New Jersey. clock.

We are furthermore in real and present Our Government has this week promised danger of inadvertently ending up a police all adults will be vaccinated by autumn state, with no right to argue or desist, if 2021. Wowee, that’s a lifetime away if you police are granted sweeping powers to are by nature risk averse, and possibly impose fines or arrest individuals over covid keeping away from everyone. They are compliance. I am not suggesting boarding a discussing additional measures which bus with no mask, and singing brazenly the could end our current 'freedoms.’ These first act of La Traviata, but I think the police might include: house arrest, mask wearing and authorities need to exercise common in the streets as well as shops and they sense. This week Jessica Allen and her could burst our support bubbles. All of friend Eliza Moore, were each fined £200 these would impact significantly on public (now rescinded) for taking a 5 mile drive in mental health, and if the support bubbles seperate cars, to have a pleasant, socially were revoked, this would further punish distanced walk in the woods. They couldn’t the elderly, the anxious, the single and the isolated. The Government has given the go- believe their eyes - or ears - when they were then surrounded by police and read their ahead for turning theatres and hotels into rights. They were additionally criticised for additional vaccination centres to garner speed in delivery of our various vaccines. Of each holding a drink, which Derbyshire Police said was ‘tantamount to [them] having a the 2,700 centres, 2,000 will be based at GP picnic.’ Well yes, in the same way I suppose, surgeries, plus 200+ based in hospitals and as having a Rakusens chocolate digestive pharmacies. Airline stewards and volunwith your drink would then constitute 'a teers are amongst those being recruited to meal.' Never mind that a nearby coffee stall help. As Boris says our spirits are going to be uplifted, now we are approaching spring, had a queue of customers waiting for their skinny lattes. Boris has found himself in a perhaps we can look forward to a little similar tricky spot, after he was challenged background music when we roll up for our jabs, to get us in the mood. Perhaps Delibes for taking a local bike ride in Stratford, seven miles from his home. Define ‘local!’

‘Flower Duet,’ otherwise known as the Hmmmm! Local is not relevant to the British Airways theme, alternatively, how woman in Wales, who drove 80 miles to a about ‘The flowers that bloom in the spring beach in Prestatyn ostensibly to exercise. (tra-la),’ from Mikado? Or simply, ‘Don’t That’s absolutely taking the M(err)ick…. stop me now!’ made famous by Queen.

We hope never again to hear the words President Trump, after his ignominious departure.

It’s refreshing to see how zealous the police are over such serious infringements, because that means that burglars struggling with our Stay Home directives - and ineligible for furlough assistance - can work undisturbed. Gone are the days when you would go shopping, offering a jaunty wave at the local bobby, but remain alert for fear of spotting a roving traffic warden, interested in you for overstaying in your parking spot, or ticketing you for unwittingly having 10cm of your tyre on an yellow line.

Well now, you can happily walk to the shops - healthier than taking the car - and instead worry about the Officer marching purposefully towards you, armed with a notebook and a pad of Fixed Penalties. Do remember law and guidance are not the same, and remarks like ‘not in the spirit of the law’ are legally worthless.

Instead we must follow the rules, and exercise extreme caution.

Up river, Mr Salmond is set for battle with his political nemesis, Ms Sturgeon, over accusations she breached the ministerial code by lying to the Scottish Parliament. Such incendiary allegations of corruption and abuses of power will not sit well with her voter base, much less so with the Unionists, who have demanded her resignation if there is truth in the charges. Salmond was cleared in a recent investigation and awarded £500,000 of taxpayers money plus costs, after the inquiry was deemed ‘tainted by apparent bias’ by a judge. Ms Sturgeon is unlikely to budge or concede as it is not in her character to bend. In other news the SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford has called for Brexit ‘compensation,’ citing changes to customs and exports as ‘an act of economic vandalism.’ These demands are believed to equate to billions of pounds.

I would imagine their coffers really do need bolstering, since Mr Trump imposed his 25% import tariff on whisky, but this is taking the MacDonald.

In England our schools are under pressure, less from the academic demands of parents, than for parents to qualify as key-workers, hence getting the golden ticket to send their children back to school.

The guidance had always related to one parent being a keyworker, but that was in the halcyon days when only limited year groups were involved. Now that our entire school population is at home, the situation has become untenable; for the schools who just cannot cope with the numbers involved in petitioning them, and for the parents, who often may have 3, 4 or 5 children being 'home-schooled,' whilst at the same time both parents are trying to work from home.

I can only liken this to an imaginary episode of Fawlty Towers, where you - the parent - run around, simultaneously playing the part of the manager, the housekeeper, the entertainer, the teacher and the chef, all the while trying to escape back to your office so that you can do your job and pay the wages.

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Whilst appreciating these parental stresses myself, I am also a teacher, and I can testify that the lockdown for them is no picnic. I have been generally very impressed with many of the zoom lessons taught to my girls, which has unexpectedly brought some insight into how hard teachers are working.

Added to their necessary online rules [be on time, screens on, mute please, submit work by email] they have to engage, challenge and motivate, whilst keeping an eye on 30 remote youngsters. Observing their endless patience and calm professionalism is a wonderful therapy for a highly stressed parent. If only our day could somehow start at 11, we parents could cram in some much needed extra sleep like our teenagers, who don't go to bed until 1.30am, and surface for breakfast at 12. If you thought you were the only parent to have teen troubles you'd be wrong, for its a story I hear in every sector.

We must be mindful that they have lost their social circles, normal routine, educational support network and possibly their self esteem, only to be cast adrift in a sea of anxious parents, fearful of our offspring's educational abandonment, disrupted futures and a future ocean of acquired debt.

Their coping mechanism is possibly to sleep their way through it all, between catching up on entertainment and eating you out of house and home. Covid-19 has a lot to answer for.

As a result of our escalating covid situation, NHS hospitals are now treating less than 50% of the usual number of cancer patients, as doctors once again prioritise covid admissions. According to the NHS England cancer resilience plan, London needs to treat 500 patients a week to keep up, but only 120 are being seen through the NHS, with another 100 being seen privately.

I can confirm chemotherapy is still being provided by the Royal Free at Finchley Memorial Hospital, which has a dedicated chemo suite, although all my appointments have reverted to phone or video. Surgeries for cancer patients (and others) are being cancelled, with CMOs fearing parts of the NHS are collapsing. Barts and Kings College Hospitals as an example are cancelling level 2 surgeries, performed within a 28 day window of referral, to facilitate covid admissions.

Finally this week, we bid farewell this week to Eleanor Wadsworth (103), who was Britain’s last female WW2 pilot. She flew Spitfires, Mustangs and Hurricanes for the Air Transport Auxiliary, accruing over 600 flying hours. This was no mean feat in a generation where women generally served on the home front, but occasionally chose to sign up for a life of extraordinary bravery, including the SOE, WRNS and ATA. Aviatrice Eleanor - may you always fly high!

Keep safe, all of you. And to you, Captain Tom (Sir) Love Jacqueline x To follow Jacqueline’s journey blog {Yocheved bas Sara} please go to https://whenallissaidanddone.home.blog

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A covid experience Jewish Weekly editor Yossi Saunders recently spoke with teacher and photographer Avi Yodaiken, a 36-year-old from Golders Green to hear about his recent experiences battling Covid-19 in the ICU. Avi was happy to share his thoughts with our readers.

Four weeks ago, on Friday I came home from the school where I teach and was feeling really weak with hardly any energy at all. As a fit and healthy 36-year-old with no previous underlying health conditions, and no cough or covid symptoms, I did not think it could really be Covid-19. However, over Shabbat, it got progressively worse and as I was getting more poorly, I decided to do a coronavirus test and I unfortunately tested positive.

As my breathing was slowly getting worse, and I had no energy at all, we decided to call Hatzola. They told my wife that my oxygen was down to only 84% and that we had to go to hospital immediately, and she had literally minutes to quickly pack a bag. I was in The Royal Free within 15 minutes, where I was seen immediately and put on a drip and given oxygen, whilst being hooked up to several other monitors.

I had to wait in A&E for 12 hours, until I eventually was moved to a ward, and there was no reception for my phone, so I had to

anything available on the makeshift ward.

Every hour, more and more people kept being brought in to our ‘ward’ but the nurse said that there was barely room for the current three occupants, where did they want these new beds to fit? My wife came to bring some food and belongings to me, but the hospital would not accept her food as they said I couldn’t eat it, and that besides there was no room to store my belongings in any case! I was inundated with goodwill calls and messages and this really helped cheer me up during the darkest moments. Back home, my wife and kids were well looked after as community well-wishers helped with food and even boxes of toys and games to cheer up the kids!

I did think a few times that surely, I was too young to die but I was extremely concerned for my wife and young kids. The mass volumes of prayers and Tehillim that were said on my behalf saved my life and I felt the tremendous power of the davening helping me through.

The special evening organised on my behalf with world renowned Rabbi Pesach Krohn and Manchester Shaarei Torah Yeshiva Masgiach Rabbi Shmuel Goldberg astounded me as over 3000 people logged in. I am eternally grateful to all the participants, and especially organisers including the rabbi’s at HaDerech, TorahAnytime and

repeatedly ask the staff to call my wife who was extremely concerned that she had not heard from me for over six hours.

Thankfully, I was eventually given a phone, but it was painfully obvious that the staff were struggling to cope.

It was so overcrowded with COVID-19 patients and more and more people kept being brought in, it was surreal. People were waiting hours in ambulances as there was no room inside so from that point of view, I was extremely grateful that Hatzola helped me get in the building and into a room.

As my oxygen levels were going the wrong way, they decided to move me to the ICU as a precaution in case G-d forbid I needed to be ventilated, I would at least be in the right place. By ICU, I mean a makeshift ward with 3 beds in it. The nurses looking after all three of us were constantly writing on pads whilst leaning on trollies as there were no computers or desks to write on. They also kept running out to get supplies as there was hardly

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Chazaq’s Robbie Aboff. Baruch Hashem, I recovered substantially to go back to the normal ward, where I was finally allowed to receive kosher food parcels. I owe a huge thanks to Ari Feferkorn at Bedside kosher.

He ensured I had fresh kosher food daily and his parcels were vital in the midst of my recovery. It’s a tough job getting fresh kosher food into any hospital right now, but he is doing it and it is making a huge difference.

I am now out of hospital. This week I took my first walk in over three weeks with my wife around the block and it was amazing to breathe in fresh air.

My thoughts on lockdown are that it’s not enough, it must be a full lockdown or what’s the point? The country has been wearing masks and social distancing for months, but Covid-19 is still ravaging the country so perhaps the government’s methods are not enough?

Meanwhile, I urge the community to follow the government guidance by social distancing and wearing masks and try as hard as possible to keep each other safe. I never thought I would get it so bad, but my case highlights it could happen to everyone.

I would strongly urge Boris to give 70 million vaccines to people of all ages, like Israel are doing. The younger ones are the ones out and about and spreading it, so they need it just as much! Baruch Hashem I am alive and together with my wife and children, we are eternally grateful to Hashem for saving me and returning me home safely. May the pandemic be over soon so we can all return to normal lives.

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Eliminating Jealousy Part 1

14 JANUARY 2021

This article is part of a serialisation of the book ‘Go to Youself’ transformation through Jewish wisdom and Psychology’. The author Aryeh Sampson is a psychotherapist based in North London and counsels online. It combines approaches from psychotherapy and Jewish wisdom to address many psychological issues that modern man is faced. This includes overcoming anxiety, low self esteem, improving relationships and creating a greater sense of meaning and spirituality.

BY ARYEH SAMPSON We live in a world where externalities, whether it be wealth, status, beauty, or other outward forms of success are greatly valued. As few people can “have it all,” many people are left feeling lacking — which breeds jealousy. Jealousy not only robs us of happiness but can be very destructive. One just needs to listen to the news to see how it wreaks havoc and leads to hatred, cut-throat business competition, and crimes of passion.

There are numerous stories in the Torah that recount the tragic consequences of jealousy, including Cain’s murder of his brother Abel, the sale of joseph by his brothers, and Korach’s rebellion against Moses.

I’d like to share a unique approach for overcoming jealousy, called the ACTive Method, which is based on Jewish thought and psychotherapy. It views anxiety as a call to look within ourselves and express our authentic selves more deeply.

At the method’s core is a three stage process of personal transformation which was taught by Rabbi Israel Salanter – these stages are Awareness, Control and Transformation.

STAGE 1: AWARENESS

The first stage requires us to become aware of the situations that arouse our jealousy and the thoughts associated with them.

Try, for example, to complete these sentences: • I feel jealous when I see______.

• What I tell myself when this happens is______.

• It makes me feel______about myself and______about my life.

Once we have become aware of these thoughts, we need to understand what is causing them. The triggers of jealousy can range dramatically from person to person, but it frequently occurs when we consciously (or subconsciously) are lacking something. For example, it is common to feel jealous when suffering from personal hardships, such as a financial crisis or sickness, when others appear to

else. His wife believed he was being controlling and that he wanted to keep her isolated from the world.

In therapy, Ben realized that his jealousy was a product of his insecurities about his relationship with his wife. Ben lacked confidence and believed that he was unworthy of his wife’s love.

As a child, he had experienced rejection from some of his closest friends, and this had left him with a fear of rejection. Even though in later life his popularity grew, this fear remained and triggered his jealousy.

be blessed by better fortune. Here are some other triggers: When Cain and Abel brought sacrifice, Cain l brought an offering from the best of his cattle, while Hevel brought an offering of vegetables.

Hevel’s offering was accepted, while Cain’s wasn’t, and he became very jealous of Abel. God then asked Cain, “Why are you so angry? Why are you depressed? If you do well, won’t your sacrifice be accepted?”.

This communication was a call to Cain to introspect and to understand that the source of his upset was rooted in his own failure to bring an acceptable offering, and was not a consequence of his brother’s success. Looking a little deeper, the name Cain is derived from the Hebrew word koneh, which means to acquire. His name described his essence; he was a person who liked to acquire and, as a result, found it difficult to give. His inability to bring a fitting offering and his jealousy of his brother were products of his failure to overcome his selfish nature.

A person’s tendency to be jealous may likewise arise from an unwillingness to accept responsibility. The person then becomes jealous of those who have made adequate efforts to succeed. Jealousy can also arise from a lack of self-esteem and confidence.

Ben became insanely jealous whenever he saw his wife speaking to anyone

STAGE 2: CONTROL

After we have clarified our jealous thoughts and their source, we move to the next step of controlling these feelings.

2(a): Thought Jealousy can arise from faulty thinking which distorts our perception of reality. As Rabbi Dessler explains, “Jealousy happens when we focus on a few moments of success in someone else’s life, and ignore their suffering.”.This is called “selective attention,” where we focus on one aspect of a situation without viewing the whole picture.

There is an interesting example of selective attention regarding Bilam.

He was jealous of the Jewish people and wanted to curse them when they

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encamped in the desert before entering the Land of Israel. Bilam had only one eye, which is referred to as an evil eye, because it symbolized his distorted vision, which focused on the negative aspects of the Jewish People rather than viewing the whole picture.

To overcome jealousy, we need to become aware of our distorted thinking and to unmask the illusions it creates. One way to do this is to realize that however good another person’s life seems, they also have their own set of challenges and hardships.

Our selective attention may also cause us to ignore the positive things that we do have. In Ethics of the Fathers the question is asked, “Who is rich?”1 One might think the answer would be someone who has an abundance of money — a multi-millionaire. The answer given, however, is “a person who appreciates what he has.”

This means that being truly rich is not a product of having great wealth but is a result of appreciating what one has.

Internalizing this attitude and appreciating what we have helps us to reduce our jealousy.

Naomi was jealous of her sister Miriam. Miriam had a better job, a bigger house, and took expensive vacations — which Naomi could not afford. In therapy, Naomi started focusing on what she did have — a loving husband, happy children, and good health. She also reflected that Miriam’s life was not one hundred percent perfect; she suffered from some chronic health issues which required frequent medical attention. Gaining a more balanced perspective helped Naomi reduce her jealousy toward her sister.

To receive a free download copy and newsletter, email aryeh.sampson@gmail. com. To purchase a hard copy go to www aryeh.sampson.com Jewish bookshops or amazon He also has a YouTube channel,’ Aryeh Sampson’ where he shares insights on a range of psychological issues. Aryeh can be contacted at aryeh.sampson@ gmail.com. For more information about counseling view www.ascounsellinginnorthlondon.co.uk

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Jami’s MHAS programme of events: Friday 22nd January 3.15pm United Synagogue MHAS dedicated Kabbalat Shabbat with Rabbi Daniel Epstein

22 - 23 january 2021

Saturday 23rd January 8-9.30pm Mental Health Awareness through a Covid-19 Lens - Looking after ourselves, our families and our communities (Interactive Head Room Education session)

Sunday 24th January 8-9.15pm MHAS Community Conversations (Interactive Head Room Education session)

The impact of the pandemic The Mental Health Awareness Shabbat falls annually to coincide with Parashat “Bo” which tells of the Plague of Darkness – a suitable launchpad for discussions on the nature of mental health.

Monday 25th January 7-8pm Getting through lockdown: taking care of myself and my friends (interactive Head Room Education session) for ages 14-16

For more information about MHAS, to view our events and to register for the toolkit, please visit jamiuk.org/mhas

Tuesday 26th January 8-8.30pm Supporting our children during these difficult times - Samantha Simmonds in conversation with Dr Ellie Cannon

Thursday 28th January 8-8.30pm Monty, Mental Health and Mazal – Zaki Cooper in conversation with cricket legend Monty Panesar

Thursday 28th January 8.30-8.45pm Cake is my Super Power with Ilana Epstein of Ta’am – Judaism on a Plate Registered charity no. 1003345.

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24 DECEMBER 2020

Keshet Couture & The Wardrobe clothing

BY MICAELA BLITZ Shani Grunhut has always had an interest in fashion. At 17, she started her own accessory business, selling beaded handmade headbands, and whilst studying for a Biology degree in the US, she took a course in fashion. When she moved to the UK in 2015, she decided to extend the business to cover not only accessories, but clothes too as she struggled to find anything in the UK that suited her style.

As she explains: “When I came here, for the first few months I had nowhere to shop and would have to buy everything from the US, I realised that there was a real need and so decided to start importing modest clothes from the US.” When she first started, she was selling items from her house, but word soon spread and before long she moved to a small shop in Hendon in 2017. As the business grew further, she found larger premises elsewhere in the same area and she has been in her current location in Sentinel Square since 2019. Despite not having trained in retail, she was able use the experience she had gained helping her grandparents in their Jewish bookshop to learn how to run a business.

Due to its popularity, the business has now expanded to two shops which cater to different parts of the community. Her main store, Keshet Couture offers fashion for adult women, whilst her other store next door, The Wardrobe, appeals to teenage girls. Most of the items Shani offers are from US labels, with a few coming from Canada or elsewhere, and she enjoys discovering new and exciting clothing from Jewish designers that she can bring to a new market. As she explains: “I think that there is a definite difference in style between the US and the UK when it comes to modest clothing. I feel that US fashion seems to be slightly ahead in terms of styles and colours, and it is great to be able to bring this to the UK to give customers more choice.”

As a working mother with two small children under four years old, when the shops were open, she relied on the hard work of her team, and she is very grateful for their help during the current situation.

“My manager, Brenda and my other three sales ladies, Sarah, Sharona and Zahava have all been amazing, and I could not have done it without them. Like me, they are working mothers and it just shows what can be achieved in pulling together in a crisis.”

The current situation has unfortunately made it more difficult for Shani

and she has had to close her shop during lockdown. She has however been able to operate a ‘click and collect’ system whereby items can be purchased directly from the website for collection or delivery.

If they find that it is not suitable, they are then able return it, and in keeping with guidelines, any items that are returned are quarantined for 72 hours before being made available on her website.

Shani has found that whilst business has remained steady throughout lockdown, the clothing being bought is quite different. Due to the lack of social events, and synagogues being closed, sales of formal outfits have decreased, but more comfortable, casual ‘everyday’ clothing is

As a working mother with two small children under four years old, when the shops were open, she relied on the hard work of her team… now popular. This has meant that ordering stock, which she does a season ahead, has been a lot more tricky, and she has had to think much more carefully about the amount and style which would be suitable for her customers at this time.

With the current regulations still in place, Shani does not know when she will be able to open her store to the public again, but

she is hopeful that when things are able to return to normality that she will be able to continue to offer fashionable, stylish outfits to the community and beyond.

If you would like to find out more about Keshet Couture or The Wardrobe, please visit the website - https://keshetcouture. com/

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ASK THE RABBI

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com IS IT OK TO JOIN THE BRITISH ARMY?

Dear Rabbi We are an Orthodox family.

My son, however, is not cut out for the Yeshiva life. He recently told me that he wants to go into the British army. I was initially shocked but he is quite adamant.

My question is whether I should encourage this or not?

Moiese Dear Moiese An answer to this question is likely to evoke all sorts of emotions. To say one should discourage their child from joining the army would imply a lack of patriotism and of course give rise to potential anti-Semitic backlash. To say one should encourage their child is likely to stoke fires among those who think all and any military duty, even in Israel, is not a place for a nice Jewish boy.

Initial discussions about enlisting in the military is based on Tosafos Avodah Zarah 18b. It goes to the core of whether it constitutes voluntarily putting one’s life at risk. Later Halachic codifiers seem to dispute whether it is in fact permissible. One, known as the Imrai Aish maintains that it is permissible while another, known as the Bais Dovid argues that it is categorically forbidden. Depending on which way one would rule would determine whether one ought to be encouraging their child to do join the army.

There is also the not insignificant fact of the extent one would be able to maintain general religious standards. While in the IDF one can get a Daf Yomi shiur daily, the British army doesn’t offer the same spiritual provisions.

To be sure, there are Jewish chaplains that do sterling work and have made amazing inroads for the benefit of Jewish servicemen and women to ensure their religious needs are provided for.

Still, being a lone Jewish soldier in a unit can be very challenging to one’s identity.

Bottom line: On the assumption it is Halachically permissible to enlist, and this is mentally/ emotionally the right thing for one’s child, they ought to be encouraged to consider the IDF where they will be able to better preserve their Jewish values.

If the child is insistent on the British army, then per the verse chanoich lena’ar al pi darkoi – “educate each child according to their individual standards,” get in touch with Jewish chaplaincy and G-dspeed.

CAN A RABBI WORK ON SHABBAT - REVISITED

Dear Rabbi I read your answer a few weeks ago where you replied to someone asking how Rabbis can work on Shabbat when it is supposed to be a day of rest. You offered a number of replies, one of which is, “rabbis are above the law.”

This is a dangerous and sacrilegious statement to make.

How can any Rabbi, let alone a so-called Orthodox one, suggest that a Rabbi doesn’t have to keep the law?

Zevi Dear Zevi Aren’t you the one who called the editor because you didn’t like my answer; threatened to burn all the papers and was insistent that I wouldn’t be writing for the paper anymore? Yet here

Pirkei Avot ‫ וְ ֹלא ַעם‬,‫ ֵאין ּבּור יְ ֵרא ֵח ְטא‬,‫אֹומר‬ ֵ ‫הוא ָהיָ ה‬ ‫ וְ ֹלא ַה ַּק ְּפ ָדן‬,‫ וְ ל ַה ַּביְ ָׁשן לָ ֵמד‬,‫ָה ָא ֶרץ ָח ִסיד‬ .‫חֹורה ַמ ְח ִּכים‬ ָ ‫ וְ ֹלא ָכל ַה ַּמ ְר ֶּבה ִב ְס‬,‫ְמלַ ֵּמד‬ :‫ ִה ְׁש ַּת ֵּדל לִ ְהיֹות ִאיׁש‬,‫ּוב ָמקֹום ֶׁש ֵאין ֲאנָ ִׁשים‬ ְ ‘ He used to say: A brute is not sin-fearing, nor is an ignorant person pious; nor can a timid person learn, nor can an impatient person teach; nor will someone who engages too much in business become wise. In a place where there are no men, strive to be a man.’

I am; the paper is still in circulation and you’re as angry as you were when you first called in.

Let’s revisit my answer: (a) Do as I say, not as I do. (b) Rabbis are above the law. (c) It is not work – it is pleasure (and if you believe that…). (d) Believe it or not Rabbis work the other six days of the week as well, and some of it is in preparation for Shabbat.

To me, and probably every other sensible reader out there, the first three answers were all tongue in cheek (and for the record – the first answer is more sacrilegious than the second, when you think about it – but for that you have to think). My best advice to you Zevi is (a) next time you call don’t leave your full name and (b) get a sense of humour.

WHERE WAS PHARAOH’S FREE CHOICE? Dear Rabbi How could G-d punish Pharaoh when He was the one who hardened Pharaoh’s heart? Whatever happened to free choice and why get punished when being denied that choice?

Bradley

Dear Bradley There is a famous expression by our Sages, “man will be led down the path he is insistent on trekking.” The origin of this is the story of Balaam who was told several times by G-d not to curse the Jewish nation. Ultimately he went, because inasmuch as you might push against what G-d wants, you exercise your free will, and that’s where you’ll end up. Sometimes, you pushed so hard that it becomes a near impossible task to retract. That is

the point regarding Pharaoh as well. As the classic commentator Rashi observes, the first five plagues he hardened his own heart. After that he essentially became a creature of habit and, when it says, “G-d hardened his heart” by definition he was now sliding down the slippery slope he chose to mount to begin with, to a point of no return.

To borrow another Talmudic phrase, hergel na’aseh teva, which means that when you do something enough times it becomes second nature to you.

When you commit yourself to a

Follow Rabbi Schochet at: RabbiSchochet.com Twitter: @RabbiYYS Facebook: facebook.com/Rabbiyys.

For a refuah Shalema for Yitzchak Refoel Chaim ben Rifka Often in life people are far too scared to actually ask a question for fear of sounding stupid. However to become a truly wise person, you just ask as many questions as possible until you become truly knowledgeable.

Why can an impatient person not teach? Because his students will be petrified to ask questions for fear of being shouted at! As Albus Dumbledore says in Harry Potter, ‘Patience is a virtue...’ In addition anger causes a person to forget his learning.

One must have a calm mind to

properly study Torah. Which is also why we are told elsewhere in Pirkei Avot ‘im ein kemach ein Torah- if there is no livelihood there can be no Torah.’

One must be calm to learn and effectively remember his learnings.

So let’s try to remain calm at all times especially during this terrible pandemic. Learning and teaching Torah is one area that has certainly not been stopped during Covid-19 with all the zoom and online or phone learning available.

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certain life pattern over a period of time you become ‘enslaved’ to that pattern. If you awake each morning to an alarm clock, then even as you switch off the clock after a while – nature kicks in and your own body clock takes over, waking you at the same time. That was Pharaoh’s reality.

To be sure, I wrote above, “near impossible” because it is never absolutely impossible to revert if one is committed to a course of genuine repentance. Even as one becomes a creature of habit, every habit can be broken. I hope that helps clarify.

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Corona Diary #20

14 JANUARY 2021

Blurring the lines between humans and animals

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN A little over a year ago a person consumed a bat and that meal changed the way we view our world. Watching the corona virus crossing over to the human realm from the natural world has forced us all to ponder the relationship between human beings and the natural world we inhabit. For the past few centuries, Nature seemed like little more than “background music” to the great march of human culture and science. Freed from the unforgiving influences of Nature, humanity advanced and progressed- often at dizzying speed. We harvested Nature for her resources just as we convinced ourselves that human ingenuity could outpace Nature.

The ‘vaccine revolution’ of the past two centuries even allowed us to bring the microbial world to its heels; or so we thought until Nature shot back! How does this buckshot of Nature affect our views of the natural world.

The 10 makkot weren’t just punishments for the Egyptians for their persecution or a “hammer shot” to crush Egyptian resolve and pave the way for the liberation of Jewish slaves. The 10 makkot were educational experiences lessoning Egyptian, Jew and, ultimately, the entire world about the basics of religion. Obviously, the larger lesson surrounded G-d’s ability to intervene in, and disrupt Nature. Aside from this primary lesson, the makkot also showcased many important messages about our relationship with Nature. It was primarily the ‘middle makkot’ of arov, dever and shechin which addressed our relationship with the broader world.

As he attempts to exploit the potential of Nature, Man struggles with threats from the animal kingdom. The second Makkah of ‘tzefardei’a’ already highlighted the dangers of sharing Nature with the animal kingdom: according to several positions these weren’t amphibious frogs but, actually, were ferocious crocodiles. Egyptians were dependent upon the vitality of the Nile for their livelihood and national success. The Nile’s fertility had catapulted Egypt to international prominence and had immunized them against the ravaging famines of sefer Breishit. However, rivers also host dangerous creatures and the Nile is no different. Under normal conditions G-d allows humans to harvest the benefits of rivers such as the Nile in safe and secure fashion. The makkah of tzefardei’a upset this balance, as hordes of crocodiles swarmed onto the dry land from the Nile. This Nile invasion reminded humans that our ability to harness Nature is fraught with danger, and taught humans to appreciate the steadying hand of G-d in

preserving this delicate ‘sharing” of Nature.

The makkah of arov however, was different from tzefardei’a: at this point the jungle invaded the city as hordes of vicious beasts trampled the human habitat. Arov reminded humanity of the delicate balance of the “frontier” the boundary where the human habitat brushes up against the animal kingdom. As Man is the pinnacle of creation, G-d desires that we carve protected human space from Nature. However, when humans behave immorally, they abdicate their lofty status and forfeit their right to secure boundaries from the jungle.

Dever, for its part, provided an additional message about humans and animals.

Egyptians, along with many ancients, worshipped their livestock. Animals were worshipped for their mighty features such as strength, agility, cunning and speed – faculties which far surpass human abilities. Even Ya’akov was aware of these qualities when he blessed Yehuda with the strength of a lion, Dan with the cunning of a snake etc. However, worshipping animals and coveting their animal features can also blur the differences between humans and animals; worshipping animal traits can animalize human beings and empty them of human traits such as moral will or conscience. Dever, through the contrast between the death of cattle and the sparing of humans, highlighted the dignity of human life and the expectations which accompany that station.

Maintaining this barrier during dever was itself and act of G-d. Humans are dependent upon their livestock for food, industry, transportation and military use.

However, like humans, animals carry bacteria and viruses which are vital to their survival but dangerous to ours. Generally, G-d preserves these delicate “equilibriums” and upholds the microbial boundaries between animal germs and human micro-organisms - allowing humans to live safely alongside their domesticated animals without risk of infection from animal diseases.

The makkah of dever highlighted this fine balance; from a medical standpoint the contagion which exterminated hundreds of thousands of animals should have quickly spread to the humans living alongside their animals. Despite this vulnerability, G-d intentionally spared humans, to highlight the moral superiority and ethical conduct which he expects of humans. In part, this is why the makkah was called ‘dever’ which can also be read as ‘davar’ or speech. Humans, as opposed to animals, are endowed with cognitive speech and are expected to utilize their will and intellect to conduct moral lives. Additionally, this is why this makkah in particular is described as the

Freed from the unforgiving influences of Nature, humanity advanced and progressed- often at dizzying speed. “hand of G-d” implying Divine precision in killing livestock while sparing humans from infection. By unleashing a pandemic which should have logically spread to humans, G-d highlighted the dignity of human life and the higher expectations he possesses for humans. We are not animals and are not meant to worship animal traits; if we animalize human experience we may incite the dissolution of boundaries between ourselves and the animal kingdom.

Arov blurred the physical boundary of humanity while dever reinforced the invisible microbial boundary. It seems as if, last December, these delicate boundaries between humans and animals were erased.

At the least, this pandemic should help us better appreciate the Divine role in maintaining these boundaries and balances.

Unlike arov and dever, which stressed the interaction between animals and humans, the makkah of “shechin” was exclusively centred on the human community. A mysterious disease, launched by contact with “oven soot”, was quickly transmitted leading to frantic quarantining. The Torah emphasizes that the Egyptian magicians could not “stand” in the presence of Moshebecause they had to be isolated to prevent mass infection. The Egyptians were facing major contagion and social distancing was insufficient- full lockdown was required.

This contagion showcases the fragility of human society- independent of our interaction with Nature. Despite the hardships of previous makkot, the Egyptians were never isolated from each other’s company. Shechin launches a process which

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ultimately leads to the total collapse of Egyptian society: during barad Egyptians will shelter in their homes from heavenly hail, during choshech they will become socially paralyzed in blanketed darkness, and, ultimately, they will hide in their homes from the angel of death during the night of bechorot.

Humans are not meant to live in isolation; we thrive in communal settings – be they familial, commercial, ethnic, religious or political. All these were quickly shut by “oven soot” the by-product of human creativity and manufacture. We are victims of our own success. The past few decades have witnessed major changes in travel and without question our traveling lifestyles have unleashed economic benefits and cultural opportunities. However, without mass international travel it is unlikely that the corona virus would have spread this quickly, if at all.

Once again our “communal life” has stalled, in part, because we overreached.

As we slowly climb out of this pandemic we have much to think about. In particular, we have been reminded of the delicate balance which G-d maintains between humans and Nature. We also sense the fragility of human communal life and how ironically, it is impacted by human advance. Much to think about over the next few months.

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.

14 JANUARY 2021

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Weekly Dvar Torah FR O M ER ETZ Y I S R A E L

It’s Not Just Pharaoh

BY SIVAN RAHAV MEIR Two complex mechanisms are revealed to us in Parashat Vaera. The first being the heart of Pharaoh.

I was a guest about a year ago at the Boca Raton Congregation in Florida.

There, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg drew conclusions about our hearts from Pharaoh’s heart: “How stupid can one be?” he asked the hundreds of worshipers on Shabbat morning. “Pharaoh sees that all the water turns to blood. He suffers greatly from the plagues of frogs and lice. Why does he not do the right thing, and liberate the children of Israel already? Why is he so

stubborn? After all, all the signs indicate what he needs to do. The Torah is not only describing Pharaoh, but us – Am Yisrael. Within each of us, a little Pharaoh is hiding, who knows exactly what he should be doing but doesn’t do it. Our Sages taught that the greatest distance in the world is the distance between the mind and the heart. The distance between what the head wants to do and the actual application. We know we want to invest more in relationships, children, education, kindness, prayer. We do not need to be convinced, we just need to start doing it already. Every year the Torah sends us

such a reminder.”

But it’s not just Pharaoh, it’s us too. And this is the second mechanism revealed in the parasha: can an amazing message reach directly to us, and we just won’t hear it? Moshe Rabbeinu addresses the people of Israel in the parasha with wonderful news: The Exodus is about to begin! They have been waiting for years, and lo and behold, now it’s happening.

The reaction of Bnei Yisrael, however, is discouraging: “they would not listen to Moshe, their spirits crushed by cruel bondage.”

How can this be? Can a person become

Pharaoh sees that all the water turns to blood.

He suffers greatly from the plagues of frogs and lice. Why does he not do the right thing, and liberate the children of Israel already? Why is he so stubborn?

so preoccupied and busy that he does not notice that an opportunity has arisen for him to go out to freedom? Can the ‘urgent’ overcome and defeat the ‘important’?

The answer is that this is what unfortunately happened to some of our ancestors. The physical bondage becomes a bondage that is also spiritual. In Mesilat Yesharim, Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto writes that we should all be very careful that this does not happen to us as well: “This is one of the cunning strategies of the evil inclination, to relentlessly burden people’s hearts with his service so as to leave them no room to reflect and consider which road they are taking.” We may miss redemption if we do not leave ourselves space in life for such good news if we are not attentive and free enough.

I wish we could absorb these two lessons.

Sivan Rahav Meir is the World Mizrachi Scholar-in-Residence and an Israeli journalist and lecturer.

A Torah bite for the Shabbat table

Once you pop you have to stop RABBI GOODMAN “Once you pop, you can’t stop” is not only a Pringle’s jingle but also a regrettable pattern of behavior: “Once you pop” from anger, “you can’t stop” yourself from spiraling out of control. Despite our best efforts to “Stay Calm and Carry On” when feeling annoyed, we “Go Berserk and Bring Everything to a Standstill.”

Although preempting anger may be the best solution, unfortunately, the “person cutting the line at the doctor after you’ve been waiting for 45 minutes” and the “person parking their trolley in the check-out line when they haven’t finished shopping,” do not always make this possible. That inner stampede of anger, more thunderous than the stampede of Wildebeest that killed King Mufasa, usually arrives without warning, and leaves us feeling irrational and dangerous.

Thankfully, however, all is not lost.

This week’s Parsha provides a fascinating insight into the mechanics of anger, the knowledge of which can help improve our anger management skills.

The outbreak of the plague of frogs

resembled a combination of the Piñata Party Game and the 1984 film, Gremlins.

Initially, a giant menacing frog hopped out of the Nile River and unceremoniously plonked itself down. Then each time the Egyptians struck the frog with their sticks (like the Piñata Party Game,) countless other frogs came teeming out of the giant frog (like Gremlins,) until Egypt was swarming with amphibians.

Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, known as the Steipler Gaon (1899-1985), asks a stunningly obvious question: if the Egyptians could see that striking the giant frog produced more frogs, why did they continue to hit it? He explains that the more the giant frog defied the Egyptian blows, the more obsessed the Egyptians became with exacting revenge and the more they whacked the frog. Blinded by their fury, the

Egyptians failed to see the self-destructive and diabolical consequences of their own actions.

The Steipler explains that this psychology applies in all cases of anger. A person feels angry when he feels hurt; and when he feels hurt, he naturally wants to hurt back. Behind every argument lies an overwhelming and blind desire for revenge which abandons reason and wreaks havoc.

If an angry person only were to keep quiet, his hunger for revenge would slowly dissipate, thereby leaving him calm and capable of managing the circumstances.

Knowing that anger and the need to “hurt back” is an irrational and ineffective response to managing our own pain puts us in a stronger and better position.

Instead of making fools of ourselves and ruining our friendships with each other, we

Behind every argument lies an overwhelming and blind desire for revenge which abandons reason and wreaks havoc.

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can more readily cool off, put the situation into perspective and utilize it to strengthen and invigorate our relationships.

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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Va’era RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

THE CELESTIAL TUG OF WAR

In the Book of Exodus the Torah changes.

It no longer concentrates on individual life stories. Now there is a new dimension, a new backdrop – national and international politics. Yes, there are personal elements, biographical details, stories within a story.

We encounter Moses the individual, Aaron the individual, Pharaoh the individual, Pharaoh’s daughter the individual… but there is a context. One people and its leader are in a tug of war against another people and its leader.

Each people has its deity. Moses and the Israelites are not their own masters. Their higher Master is G-d. Pharaoh and the Egyptians also have a religious dimension, made even more complicated because Pharaoh himself is regarded as at least partly divine.

A pattern emerges which develops and plays out throughout the subsequent centuries. The battle is not limited to earthly considerations. When the Jews struggle for their freedom and rights it is part of a higher struggle between the G-d of Israel and the religions of the environment.

That isn’t all. It is not so much the Jewish G-d against the G-ds of others but the Jewish Elokim against the gentile Elilim, the no-G-ds.

MIXED MULTITUDE

When eventually the Hebrew slaves left Egypt, a “mixed multitude” (erev rav) went with them (Ex. 12:38).

There is a connection between this erev and the one that means “evening”.

The underlying meaning is “to mix”.

Evening is a mixture of day and night; that’s why the Evening Service is Arvit or Ma’ariv, because at the end of the daylight hours G-d mixes (ma’ariv) the light and the darkness: then the day recedes and night takes over.

In the story of the Exodus the Hebrews might have fled with a motley group of outsiders, which the Targum calls nuchra’in, strangers. These people took the opportunity to escape, though the Midrash has views that the mixture was of insects (Sh’mot Rabbah 11).

Rashbam says the mixture was of fierce animals, particularly wolves, because animals such as wolves hunt in packs.

THE DIVINE NAME

The sidra begins by saying that despite the Divine names which figure in the Torah hitherto, we now find the people perceiving the Almighty by the four-letter name which we render HaShem (Ex. 6:3).

Yet surely that name was already known from the previous chapters of Sh’mot and all the more so from the Book of B’reshit!

Maybe until now the names of G-d were

just names, but now the people have existed long enough to realise the significance of each name – in particular that Elokim denotes Divine power and HaShem denotes Divine love.

REASONABLE CONVICTIONS OF MY OWN.

It was obvious that Pharaoh would challenge Moses, “This G-d whose name you quote to tell me to let your people go – who is He? Prove to me that He is who you say!

Demonstrate His authority to me!”

Moses of course had no personal problem with belief. But is it ever enough to tell a questioner, doubter or cynic, “Of course G-d exists – look, I’ve encountered His Presence at many crucial points in my life”?

The questioner is unlikely to be satisfied with this argument. Where is the objective evidence, the scientific demonstration, the logical proof?

Maimonides, scientist and logician as well as philosopher and believer, made an impressive attempt to prove the necessary existence of G-d, but even in his more religious age it was impossible to argue people into belief, and less and less is it possible in our own age.

Are we as believers therefore being unreasonable when we continue to believe? Are we flying in the face of the evidence?

The answer depends on what is meant

by evidence. Surely evidence does not have to be scientific or mathematical. As far as Judaism is concerned, the evidence of G-d is largely evidence from encounter – our national encounter with G-d in history, our personal encounter with G-d in daily experience.

John Fiske wrote, “It is not likely that we shall ever succeed in making any of the great teachings of religion a matter of scientific demonstration, for we lack the requisite data. The belief must, therefore, ever remain an affair of religion rather than of science.

“In other words, it must remain one of that class of questions upon which I may not expect to convince my neighbour, while at the same time I may entertain a reasonable conviction of my own on the subject.”

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

The Chovat Halevavot now continues to introduce Bitachon by setting out the following seven steps that are needed for its comprehension. Many of these categories themselves have sub-categories all of which we hope to explore.

Here are the seven headings: 1. What is Bitachon?

2. What gives a person the fortitude to have Bitachon? What generally gives a person reason to trust in other people so that we can derive from there how and why we should trust in Hashem?

3. What a person needs to have already set out to achieve in order to reach bitachon.

4. When is Bitachon appropriate and when not.

5. The difference in attitude and conduct of one who trust in Hashem compared with one who unfortunately does not. To explain the mistake of those who believe that they should take a “collateral from Hashem”. Such people spend an earlier portion of their lives grabbing pleasures, wasting much time and effort, and console themselves that when they get older they will settle down and serve G-d. The error in their judgment will be clarified.

6. What causes a person to lose their trust in Hashem?

Part 1. What is Bitachon? Bitachon is a state of peace of mind that a person finds themselves in, when they realise that they are in the caring Hands of Someone who cares about them. The “Someone” has only the person’s good in mind.

Not only is the caring Being capable of taking care of us, He will fulfil His guarantees to us and even go beyond what we He has promised sometimes, giving us out of His extreme kindness and mercy to us.

Part 2. Chovot Halevavot next sets out the seven causes that people have to trust in other people, extrapolating from there how we find the tools to place the same trust in Hashem.

It would be prudent to provide a short reminder at the outset that a secondary utensil is one which has had the contents of a primary utensil (which had been on the fire) poured into it.

Although we have learnt that a secondary utensil (Keli Sheni) generally does not have the heat power to cook a raw food item, there are exceptions to this.

This is known as the concept of “Kalei Habishul” meaning food items that are easily cooked. A raw egg for example, is clearly able to be cooked in a secondary utensil.

We are not too familiar with what foods can or cannot be cooked in a Keli Sheni so we apply a stringent approach to all foods and the accepted practice is that one does not place any raw food into a Keli Sheni that is of the Yad Soledet temperature.

Tea bags or tea leaves, uncooked cocoa

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or coffee and indeed, eggs or a piece of lemon may not be put into a Yad Soledet secondary utensil.

The exceptions to this are: water and oil, which may be placed into a Keli Sheni even if not previously cooked.

Table salt may be placed into a Keli Sheni. For all oher types of salt, one should verify the manner in which they are prepared for the consumer and only if they have been through a cooking process, may they be placed into a Keli Sheni.

Pasturesied milk, tea essence (precooked), sugar and pre cooked lemon juice may be placed into a Keli Sheni.

One must also remember that pouring from a primary utensil can involve cooking too, so any of the food items forbidden to be cooked in a Keli Sheni may also not have water poured onto them from a Keli Rishon.

30 KIDS

Va’era This week Hashem begins to show Pharaoh just Who is the boss!

Hashem tells Moshe to go to the Jewish people and encourage them saying that Hashem will take them out, save them, redeem them and take them as a nation to Him. Hashem then tells Moshe to go to Pharaoh with his brother Aaron, throw down his stick which would turn into a snake, to give a sign of the miraculous capabilities they given.

Then it was time for the Makkot to begin!

First there was the Plague of Blood, where all the rivers and smaller bodies of water turned into blood. Then the noisy Plague of Frogs, which filled the land of Egypt everywhere. Next came Kinim – lice, leaving the country itching! Then Hashem said I will

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send wild animals which will come all over the land – except for where the Jews live.

The next plague was an illness that made many animals die. After that Hashem told Moshe that he and Aaron should bring about a plague of Boils, followed by a Plague of fiery Hail!

All of these plagues were brought upon Pharaoh and the Egyptians to show them – and us – that He not only created the world, but that He runs it and takes an active interest in it, especially looking out for His precious nation. Due to the oppression and excessive punishment the Egyptians gave the Jews, Hashem paid them back measurefor-measure, starting with the seven plagues mentioned this week and the three more we reach a climax with next week!

Va’era Word Search

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BEASTS • BLOOD • BOILS • CATTLE • FROGS • HAIL • LICE • PLAGUES

Tangram Challenge!

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

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Va’era In a nutshell Moshe had ended last week’s Parsha with a mild complaint to Hashem as to why things had only gotten worse when he’d approached Pharaoh.

In opening this week’s Parsha, Hashem replies to Moshe “I appeared to the forefathers, Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov and they never questioned My ways.”

Hashem then reveals the opening stage of the grand plan of redeeming the Jews from Egypt.

He uses four expressions - five in fact - of redemption which he tells Moshe to encourage the Jews with but they were too burdened by their work to even listen properly.

Hashem also tells Moshe to go to Pharaoh and introduce himself with Aaron who should throw down his stick which will turn into a snake.

And so the first warning comes. Hashem tells Moshe to go to meet Pharaoh at the river and warn him that if shall not let the Jews go, blood will be the new most common liquid in Egypt. Pharaoh didn’t listen and not only the River turned to blood, all waters turned into blood, in the house,

in the food etc. All the fish died. It was Aaron who hit the water; Moshe was not allowed to. Did Pharaoh then let them go? No! And Hashem tells Moshe to tell Aaron to bring about the next plague - frogs! Pharaoh begs Moshe to have the plague removed. Moshe prays and the plague ends, but Pharaoh still refuses to let the Jews go.

The third plague was lice and that came without warning. The Egyptians itched for a week and then Moshe had the plague removed.

It was then time for the new set of plagues. Moshe warns Pharaoh that if he does not let the Jews go, a swarm of wild animals will let themselves loose all over Egypt (except Goshen where the Jews lived). When Pharaoh hardened his heart, that is exactly what happened, until after several days Pharaoh pleads for the animals to go, agreeing to let the Jews serve G-d in Egypt. Moshe is not satisfied with that and says we need to travel away in order to do so. Pharaoh agrees, but Pharaoh does not keep his word.

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.

When he remains stubborn he is warned that a plague of pestilence is on its way and all animals will die. Did that frighten Pharaoh? No. The plague came and the animals died and the Jews were still trapped in the land of Egypt.

At the third plague of the set there was no warning.

Hashem tells Moshe and Aaron to fill their hands with coals and throw them in the air, bringing down boils on all the Egyptian people. Did that help? Unfortunately not!

The Jews were not allowed to go, and it’s time for a new set of plagues.

Moshe warns Pharaoh that in plague number seven, fierce and fiery hail will land on Egypt. Those Egyptians who feared the word of Hashem, took their animals indoors. Those that didn’t, came out after the plague had finished to discover that their animals had been devastated by the plague.

Pharaoh still did not let the Jews go and next week the next stage of this glorious display of Hashem’s might continues.

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! and ant ate eat nan

tad tan tat tea ante

dane data date dean nana THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

neat tate teat attend tenant

andante attendant

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Q: Are any vampires good at maths?

A: No—unless you Count Dracula!

Q: Why is Peter Pan flying all the time?

A: He Neverlands!

Q: Did you hear the one about the little mountain?

A: It’s hill-arious!

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. How many seconds are there in a year?

3. I’m the size of an elephant, but I weigh nothing.

What am I?

Q: What’s a banana’s favorite type of shoe?

A: Slippers!

2. I weigh nothing, but you can still see me. If you put me in a bucket, I make the bucket lighter. What am I?

3) An elephant’s shadow!

1. Twelve— January 2nd, February 2nd…

2) A hole

1. Cash on delivery 2. Third time lucky 3. Arch Bishop

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4. First in the queue 5. I’m in the middle of something 6. Time’s up

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Ole faces Jurgen in ‘battle of Sixteen-goal Lions giants’ 4th round tie rout Scrabble in Cup

BY DAVID SAFFER

Manchester United host Liverpool in the stand-out FA Cup fourth round tie followingDAVID the draw on Monday. Whoever prevails BY SAFFER will host West Ham or Doncaster Rovers in the fifth round which to aid Reiss Mogilner scoredwas six also goalsdrawn as Maccabi Covid arrangements.

London Lions thumped Scrabble A in the Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s team Cup. came second round of the Cyril Anekstein through the third round against Watford The Premier League side racked up a 16-0 whilst Jurgen Klopp’s defeated an win with Daniel Greencharges and Michael Kenley U23/U18 Aston Villa sideEd due to a Covid both bagging a hat-trick.

Brafman, Daoutbreak at the vid Dinkin, andclub.

Adam Hassanali completFourth round highlightsof included noned the rout in a mismatch a tie. league Chorley, who defeated Derby CounLions could have scored in the opening ty’s U23/U18 due to Covid, minute of the line clashup, butalso soon opened the drawing a plumb home tie against Wolves scoring and led 9-0 by half time. while Wycombe The Cheltenham Division OneTown team,and though outWanderers hostaway Manchester City and Totclassed, battled to the end. tenham respectively.

Lions boss was lost for words at full time Division Twodisplay giantkillers such was the from Crawley his teamTown, who who knocked out Premier League Leeds gave every respect to the opposition.

United, will really revel insure a trip to Bournemouth, “I’m not there’s anything to Division Two Blackpool, oustedtotopsay, we are happy to makewho it through the flightround strugglers Brom, will not be next of the West cup,” he commented. fazed by a seaside trip to Brighton.

Hendon United Sports ran out 3-1 victors Division One highflyers clash against League One outfiBrentford’s t North London at home to Leicester City should be an atRaiders. tractive affair, cup holders Arsenal travel to The Premier side led early in the second Southampton or Shrewsbury who are yet to half only for Raiders to equalise but struck meetlate duegoals to a Covid outbreak at the two to book a place in Saints. round Other ties are Chelsea v Luton, West Ham three of the competition. v Doncaster, Everton v Sheffield WednesHendon now turn their attentions to the day, Sheffield league as theyUnited travel vtoPlymouth, OakwoodSwansea A for a City v Nottingham Forest, Barnsley v Norcrucial top of the table clash on Sunday wich, Millwall v Bristol City and Fulham v (10am).

Burnley.

Daniel Kristall’s team stunned the league Crawley biggest leaders lastenjoyed month the when they third won round 2-0, a scalp with a sensational 3-0 win victory would move them to within against a point Leeds. of Hendon with a match in hand.

Marcelo Bielsa’s boasted sprinElsewhere in the outfit latest round of afixtures, kling of first team regulars but Crawley 10-man North London Galaxy made it a sealed thetitle biggest inonly the club’s history three-way racewin in the Division One with goals from Nick Tsaroulla, Ashley clash of the day after defeating OakwoodNaB. desan and Jordan Tunnicliffe.

Jamie Murray saw red early on but Galaxy Leedswith are goals now free to Josh ‘concentrate on the rallied from Cohen and Jaleague’ but fans will have noted Bournecob Leigh to record an important 2-1 away mouth, Fulham and Burnley were standing win. inGalaxy the wayhead of a possible runJewish to the quarterfiRedbridge Care A in nals had a stronger team been The the table by just one point afterselected.

10 matches, ‘league vs cup’ debate continues. third place Fairlop FC are five points beBlackpool West Brom on hind with two overcame games in hand. penalties.

Chris Maxwell made a hat-trick Rafi Bloom scored for Oakwood. of“Itpenalty saves in the shoot-out. inThea was a fantastic performance

Seasiders led twice through Jerry Yates and Gary Madine only for Semi Ajayi and Pereira to send the game into extra time before the penalty drama.

National League North side Chorley made it through against Derby’s inexperienced line up though it was not too surprising. Celebrations were not on the scale of previous rounds. Connor Hall opened the scoring before Mike Calveley sealed the win.

League One Doncaster overcame Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park with a Richards strike. Plymouth Argyle came out on top against Huddersfield Town, Joe Edwards striking a 70th-minute winner in a 3-2 triumph while the Championship’s bottom club Wycombe stunned Preston with a 4-1 win, Fred Onyedinma, Joe Jacobson, Josh Knight and Alex Samuel scoring in a fine victory.

Elsewhere, Brighton made hard work of defeating Newport County. Solly March appeared to settle the match in the 90th minute but a Jason Steele gaffe saw Adam Webster put through his own goal deep into injury time. Steele though came up trumps in the Maccabi shootout, saving 16-goal London Lions penalties from Josh Sheehan, Mickey Demetriou, Liam Shephard and Scot Bennett as Brighton ranplayout must-win game, ” commented Galaxy 4-3 winners.Luke Lewis. er-manager On weekend ofallowed few Premier shocks, “Weasat back and Oakwood the Sheffield United finally ended a six-month ball, given the one-man advantage and winless runhit of 21 matches bycounter beating Bristol looked to them on the attack Rovers 3-2.

The Blades twice led only for the with pace.

League to hit backthe before Jayden “BothOne goalsside came down right-hand Bogle’s winner.

Burnley avoided a cup exit side. Leigh crossed the first one into Cohen when Matej Vydra scored deep into stopto finish, before slotting home himself. Up page to ”send the game into extra time to firsttime we go. after Cameron header.

The Division Jerome’s Two titlefirst-half race also took The Clarets won 4-3 on penalties, Will Nora twist with league leaders Herstwood ris saving Dons Vale goingtwo down to spot a 2-1kicks. defeat at Temple Everton, meantime, required an exFortune. tra-time winner to played advance, Abdoulaye Faithfold B have a game more Doucoure seeing off the brave efforts than Vale but moved level with a 5-3 win of at Rotherham.

TheRaiders hosts led through Cenk ToNorth London Masters. sun, Matthew scored a deserved Jacob KalmsOlosunde struck twice for Fortune who equaliser and pushed a weakened Premier scored through leading scorer James MilXI all the letwith hisway.

17th goal of the season.

Liverpool to amore 4-1 against Villa.

The resultlaboured was all the remarkable After opening the scoring through Sadio as Temple were down to 11 players with Mane, kids stunned the Reds with a ‘keeperVilla’s Ben Rebuck dislocating a shoulder breakaway goal from 17-year-old debutant in the warm up.

Louie was calmness “ThisBarry, waswho a fantastic win personified given the

Ole Gunnar Solksjaer and Jurgen Klopp meet in the FA Cup fourth round

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

as he slotted past Caoimhin Kelleher. Clearly embarrassed quick fire goals followed from Georginio Wijnaldan, Mane and Mo Salah for the win.

EFL cup finalists Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur eased to easy victories.

City overcame Birmingham City 3-0 with a Bernardo Silva brace and Phil Foden strike. Tottenham’s second string ensured there was no surprise at non-League Marine. Carlos Vinicius’s first-half hat-trick was a highlight. Lucas Moura scored before 16-year-old substitute Alfie Devine made it a day to remember with the final goal in a 5-0 rout against the eight tier minnows.

A shadow Manchester United overcame Watford at Old Trafford with a Scott McTominay early goal but FA Cup holders Arsenal needed time goals from circumstances, ” saidextra delighted Fortune Emile Smith-Rowe and Pierre-Emerick boss Simon Linden.

Aubameyang to defeatofNewcastle United “We had a number players out, Re2-0 at home.

Second-half substitute buck got injured, so I couldn’t have Smith asked Rowe hadfrom earlier dismissed only any more thebeen players.

We wish Benfora VAR to rescind the card.

But the Gunners speedy recovery. were veryafortunate as school Andy Carroll wasted “It was proper old performance, two guilt-edged chances to settle the tie. we battled and defended for the 90 minutes The rue this defeat. proved and Geordies took our will chances.

Experience runners-up meantime, toFA be Cup the winner.

It’s a Chelsea, big win, one we will were too strong for Morecambe.

Mason enjoy and we hope to build on it in 2019. ” Mount, Timo Werner, Callum Hudson-Odoi He added, “This win marks 50 years as a and Kai Havertz a straight forward football club andscored will beinone Nigel Kyte and win. everyone associated with the club from day

Leicester have never won the FA Cup and could go a long way this season after a clinical 4-0 victory at Stoke City. A fine display saw James Justin score a scorcher, Marc Albrighton, Ayoze Perez and Harvey Barnes also hit the target.

Wolves edged past Crystal Palace with a thumping first half left foot strike from Adama Traore, Bobby Decordova-Reid and Neeskens Kebano ensured Fulham won a west London derby at QPR while West Ham ground out a 1-0 win at Stockport County with a late Craig Dawson header.

Cup clashes saw Norwich City overcome Coventry City with two goals by the seventh-minute from Kenny McLean and Jordan Hugill, second-placed Swansea City took the lead on seven minutes at Stevenage with a Wayne Routledge header and Viktor Gyokeres nodded home after half time to settle the tie.

Brentford defeated Middlesbrough 2-1 in a tight affair. Halil Dervisoglu’s struck before half-time. Sam Folarin levelled but the hosts came through with Saman Ghoddos tapping home after the hour.

In other Championship ties, out of form Nottingham Forest earned a welcome win PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER against Cardiff City with a third-minute strike from Lyle Taylor, Sheffield Wednesday knocked out Exeter City, Adam Reach and Callum Paterson scoring, Luton Town edged past Reading with a George Moncur volley and Millwall were too strong for Borehamwood courtesy of Kenneth Zohore and Shaun Hutchinson goals.

Meantime, Bristol City struck late to deny Portsmouth in a hard-fought encounter, Bournemouth defeated Oldham 4-1 and Barnsley left it late to deny Tranmere.

Finally, Cheltenham Town came from one will enjoy. ” behind to defeat Mansfield 2-1 with Vale boss Jacob EmanuelTown was quick to awish WillRebuck Boyle 110th minute header in extra well following his injury. time andand a first fourth-round tieeveryone in 15 years.

“First most importantly, at FA Cup fifth round draw: Man Vale would like to wish the FortuneUtd/Liv‘keeper erpool West Ham/Doncaster; a quickvrecovery, we hope to seeBrentford/ him back Leicester v Brighton/Blackpool; Swansea/ on the football pitch as soon as possible, ” he Forest said. v Cheltenham/Man City; Everton/ Sheff Weds Wycombe/Tottenham; BarnsAs for thev defeat, Emanuel commented, ley/Norwich v Chelsea/Luton; Chorley/ “It doesn’t matter how big a squad you Wolves v Southampton/Shrewsbury or Arhave, you can never account for unavailsenal; Sheff Utd/Plymouth v Millwall/Brisability or injury. Only five of today’s team tol City;inFulham/Burnley Bournemouth/ played our recent win vover FC Team, a Crawley. lack 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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Pogba fires United top of league Everton picked up a tremendous 2-1 win at Wolves to stay in the hunt for a Champions League spot. Michael Keane nodded in a 77th-minute winner to settle the contest after Ruben Neves had equalised Alex Iwobi’s fifth minute opener for the visitors.

Everton’s latest win was impressive against a tough side and demonstrates just how far they have come under manager Carlo Ancelotti. These are heady times for the team from Goodison Park.

Jose Mourinho has found a club ready to take the next step towards winning major honours but they must see out games.

They are through to the EFL final at Wembley in April where they face Guardiola’s City seeking a fourth successive win, and are going well in the league, but this was two points dropped against a struggling Fulham side who battled well.

Nobody doubts the potential of a Tottenham team led by a world class striker in Harry Kane who opened the scoring with a diving header. Kane went close to a second to settle the match by the interval. The west London club are in the Paul Pogba sent Manchester United top of the table

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

BY DAVID SAFFER Manchester United are top of the Premier League after a sensational late volley from Paul Pogba settled a tough encounter against Burnley on Tuesday night.

Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s star French midfielder has been inconsistent this season but was on song at Turf Moor to send the Reds three points clear of champions Liverpool.

The two teams meet at Anfield in a clash of the titans on Sunday afternoon (4.30pm).

United’s win was the first time they have topped the table after 17 games since the 2012/13 season under Sir Alex Ferguson.

United won the league in what proved to be Fergie’s swansong at the club.

Solksjaer’s charges are developing and cannot yet be viewed as title favourites but should they defeat Jurgen Klopp’s team it will be a six-point advantage as the halfway point of the season approaches.

Both teams though are looking over their shoulders at Manchester City who overcame Brighton in the early evening game.

Leicester City and Everton occupy the next spots with Tottenham Hotspur two points back. City have matches in hand on all their rivals. An astonishing title race is getter better by each round of fixtures with six points separating the top six clubs.

Pogba’s strike from Marcus Rashford’s cross took a deflection off Matthew Lowton and proved the match winner but this was a game United should have had

Phil Foden fired Manchester City into the title race

bottom three but deserved an equaliser when Ivan Cavaleiro headed home on 74 minutes.

Tottenham are in the trophy mix but lack the killer instinct at times and it is hurting them.

Sheffield United finally picked up a league win at the 18th attempt to beat 10man Newcastle United at Bramall Lane.

Newcastle’s Ryan Fraser was sent off in the first half after two bookable offences in three minutes.

The Blades dominated possession and finally got the breakthrough 15 minutes from time when Billy Sharp slotted home from the spot after referee Andy Madley checked an incident on the pitchside TV video monitor.

Chris Wilder’s team have finally kicked-started the worst ever Premier League campaign in history. But the Blades are nine points adrift of 17th placed Brighton and have played more games than rivals West Brom and Fulham immediately above them in the table. The task to survive sadly appears ‘mission impossible’ but they will keep battling to the end.

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

wrapped up long before full time. The Reds bossed the game, Burnley’s only shot on target came in injury time.

Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani, back from a suspension, both wasted great opportunities to score but United’s defence has been sound in recent weeks and had enough to see the game out.

Solskjaer told BBC Sport, “Any time you get three points you are happy. We had to dig in and earn it.

“The goal was top, great execution and style. Pogba really played well tonight. It would have been easier for us, we should have got the second goal but we don’t do it the easy way. We feel very confident going into games. Away from home we have really done well. We have to believe in ourselves and we do. We’ve done a great job, it’s good times. It’s a test against the champions (Liverpool on Sunday) who have been fantastic, a great test for us.”

Pep Guardiola’s City have been playing under the radar but are coming into form so opponents beware. Phil Foden struck the only goal against a plucky Brighton outfit before half-time, taking a Kevin de Bruyne’s pass on the edge of the penalty area before firing into the bottom corner.

Riyad Mahrez, Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva all went close whilst Raheem Sterling failed to convert an injury-time penalty after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez fouled De Bruyne.

City have won seven consecutive league and cups games to the delight of their boss.

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