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THE START OF A BEAUTIFUL FRIENDSHIP Last month, we had the honour of welcoming a delegation of young leaders and influencers from the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco and Egypt, as well as their Israeli counterparts, to the MDA station in Jerusalem. The visit focused on MDA’s lifesaving work and its technological expertise - showcasing MDA’s training, technology and innovation for the |
benefit of all people irrespective of race, religion, gender or ethnicity. The visit to MDA Jerusalem will feature in a film entitled Finding Abraham. The film will be premiered at the UN on the anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords in September.
Israel’s Ministry of Strategic Affairs. This is a reciprocal visit following the Israeli delegation’s trip to Dubai earlier this year.
The delegation was in Israel as part of the ‘Leaders of Tomorrow’ programme, organised by the ‘Israel Is’ organisation in partnership with
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STATE-OF-THE-ART OUR BLOOD CENTRE LIFESAVING STAR NEARING COMPLETION The Star of David at once conjures up two thoughts. The first is Israel and the second is Jewish people the world over.
Over the past eighteen months, the two have been separated. Supporters of Israel have been forced to view events taking place there from a distance, without the ability to spend time in person with friends, family and, in our case, our colleagues on the ground. So, when Israel was put on the green list of countries that we Brits could travel to and from, I breathed a huge sigh of relief. At last we would be able to re-establish the links that are an integral part of all that we do. However, no sooner had the skies opened than they seemed to fall in. The tragedy at Meron, which saw the death of 45 and countless more injured, was heartbreaking. This was followed quickly by ‘Operation Guardians of the Wall’ and yet more loss of lives and devastation. Throughout both these events, it was impossible not to take pride in the response of the Magen David Adom teams on the ground. As ever, when civilians are forced to run away from danger, MDA’s paramedics and volunteers run towards it, endangering their own lives to save others. However, this is not just limited to events in Israel. Magen David Adom recently sent Uriel Goldberg, an expat paramedic, to Florida to help with the rescue effort of looking for survivors in the rubble of the collapsed building in Surfside, Miami. Uriel, together with the IDF are working around the clock hoping to defy the odds and save more lives. Coming full circle, we are back to the Star of David. When it is blue it connects Jewish people and Israel. Colour it red and it becomes a beacon of hope, a provider of life and a spotlight on all that is great about Israel.
Daniel Burger Chief Executive
Over the past four years, MDA UK, together with the American Friends of MDA and the Government of Israel, have been working on the building of a new National Blood & Logistics Centre in Ramla. The success of this project will guarantee Israel’s blood supply in the face of rapid population growth, the ongoing threat of terrorism and the increasingly complex risks of cyber-attack. The recent violence in May emphasised further the need for this new Centre, which will have a secure underground vault to store the rarest blood. Up until now, MDA teams have been manually transferring the existing supply into shelters which is sub-optimal. The building work for the new £90m state-of-the-art Centre is set to be completed in November. Just last month, Russell Jacobs, MDA UK Chairman, made history as the first ever donor to visit the Centre. We are also proud to share that so far we have sold 76 mezuzot to adorn the doors around the new Centre. Last year we ran a competition for students of the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design to sketch out a drawing for the mezuzot. The finalists have now been selected and will shortly present their designs to Eli Bin, Director General MDA. We were amazed at how many entries were received. It really goes to show how exciting an opportunity it is for students to have their work affixed to a landmark building in the State of Israel.
MAGEN DAVID ADOM WORKING AROUND THE CLOCK IN MIAMI MDA teams are working around the clock in Miami after a residential building collapsed. Together with the IDF and Hatzalah Miami, MDA is providing lifesaving medical care, alongside rescue operations to those injured, as well as assisting in the search and rescue efforts. MDA is so much more than Israel’s ambulance service. It provides humanitarian aid wherever possible, and our teams will continue to help our American friends during this crisis.
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COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS ARE COMING TO AN END BY DAVID SAFFER
The United Synagogue will prepare guidelines for shuls and community members as the final stage of England’s COVID-19 lockdown roadmap looms this month. Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced this week plans to end most COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Mandatory face masks will no longer be legally required and distancing rules are set to end on July 19th. The rule of six in private homes, work-from-home guidance, school bubbles and restricted sporting crowds are also scheduled to be axed. A final decision will be ratified on 12 July following a review of the latest data. Johnson, speaking at a Downing Street news conference on Monday, praised the national vaccine rollout for weakening the link between COVID-19 cases and deaths. But he warned cases could
rise to 50,000 a day this month. However, the PM explained, “If we don’t go ahead now when we’ve clearly done so much with the vaccination programme to break the link when would we go ahead?” Johnson added. “We run the
risk of either opening up at a very difficult time when the virus has an edge, has an advantage, in the cold months, or again putting CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
AMBASSADOR TZIPI HOTOVELY MEETS THE QUEEN!
ENGLAND REACH FIRST FINAL IN 55 YEARS!
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Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely with husband Or Alon at Buckingham Palace to present credentials to the Queen. Avi and Shua Barr celebrate as England reach the final of Euro 2020! SEE PAGE 50
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Herzog is 11th President of Israel
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BY DAVID SAFFER Isaac Herzog is the eleventh President of the State of Israel. The former Labour leader succeeds Reuven Rivlin and follows in the footsteps of his father, Chaim Herzog, who was the sixth Israeli President. The presidential handover yesterday was held for the first time at the Presidential Palace of Israel. Speaker Mickey Levy led the inauguration ceremony where Herzog addressed the Knesset before swearing his allegiance on the same 100-year-old bible used by his father in 1983. Herzog called for internal unity in his inaugural address and vowed to be the “President of everyone”. “My mission, the mission of my term, is to do everything in order to rebuild hope,” he noted. Levy welcomed Herzog at the Knesset plaza with a guard of honour and a 45-piece IDF band that played the national anthem. Children from Carmiel and Kiryat Yam absorption centres and the Jewish Agency participated in the ceremony. IDF rabbis blew shofars and Levy recited a blessing to Herzog. Ahead of taking the oath, the new President, who has stepped down as Jewish Agency head, prayed at the Western Wall where he placed a small note stating that he would “devote himself to unity among our people and true love for Israel”. The former government minister won last month’s secret Knesset ballot against Miriam Peretz convincingly 87-26 from MKs across the political divide. Rivlin left his successor a letter detailing “tremendous privilege” that had fallen his successor. “You will find brave people who do not talk about the ‘together’, they just live it,” he wrote. “Day to day and hour by hour. In their homes, those on the right and the left, Jews and Arabs, veterans and new immigrants, religious and traditional, young and old. People of all faiths, sectors and ethnicities. All of them, Israelis. Beautiful,
Isaac Herzog
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
enlightening, and generous.” In one of Rivlin’s last acts of his seven-year term, he saluted the IDF in a special ceremony earlier this week. “Soldiers and commanders of the IDF, on land, air and sea, dear, beloved, wonderful people,” Rivlin tweeted. “How much I love you! You are my Israeli hope. With your permission, Chief of Staff, I am ready to sign up for the reserves again right now.” Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas spoke with Rivlin, according to a statement released by Abbas’ Ramallah office and expressed hope peace between the two sides would be achieved. Rivlin appealed to Abbas to end the conflict during a farewell tour of the United States last week. US President Biden hosted Rivlin at the White House and vowed that Iran would not get a nuclear weapon “on his watch”. The leaders discussed Israel’s national security, the Iran nuclear deal, Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza and new coalition government. Rivlin met UN officials in New York, House of Representatives Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, and congressional lawmakers from both parties in Washington.
Tzipi meets Queen in virtual ceremony Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely officially presented her credentials to the Queen in a virtual ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The Queen has welcomed all Israeli Ambassadors to the Court of St James but this time met the first woman to assume this prestigious role. Due to pandemic restrictions the Queen remained in residence at Windsor Castle. Ambassador Hotovely was especially excited to be the first female Israeli Ambassador to the UK to meet Her Majesty. “The Queen has given me her blessing and this ceremony has solidified the strong ties between our two democracies. I had the privilege of expressing my deep gratitude
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and appreciation on behalf of the State of Israel.” Ambassador Hotovely added, “The strategic cooperation between our two countries is based on our shared values, has reached new heights in the fields of diplomacy, security, culture and technology. Above all, this year we have seen innovative joint work in the medical field. The Israeli Health Ministry, is cooperating with its British counterparts and the NHS, to cope together with this crisis. “I am proud to serve as Ambassador and look forward to continuing to promote the strategic and bilateral relations between the two countries.”
everything off to next year.” Jo Grose, the US’s Director of Communities, said, “Like the rest of the country, the US is excited to think about life after COVID-19 restrictions. We know davening is not the same without singing nor weddings without dancing. “As ever, we will need to see the detailed government guidance before we can issue guidelines to support our communities, as we plan for larger attendances at shul services, celebrating smachot and holding events as we did before Covid, and of course planning for the Yamim Noraim in September.” She added, “The government has said it will be moving away from mandatory guidance and will be preparing instead recommendations for people to follow to stay safe. Mirroring this, we are preparing a new style of guidelines which will provide options and recommended approaches for mitigating risk for communities. We will also include basic requirements such as asking people who feel unwell to stay at home, and ensuring good ventilation in our buildings. Communities will be able to make judgements based on their
own context and what’s right for their members.” Jo concluded, “This is an important moment for our communities as we look to kick-start communal activities after a very challenging 16 months. While we are excited to do so, we recognise that the end of lockdown does not mean the end of COVID-19 and we will continue to be careful as we have been throughout the pandemic. We pray that this next set of Coronavirus guidelines will be our last.” Chief medical officer Chris Whitty and Chief Scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance told TV viewers they will wear masks in a “crowded situation” or where people are “close together” if asked to by a “competent authority” or if someone was uncomfortable as a “common courtesy”. Health Minister Sajid Javid announced on Tuesday that fully vaccinated people in England will not need to self-isolate if a close contact tests positive for Covid-19 from August 16th. MPs also heard the same policy would apply to under 18s from that date. More details on self-isolation rules for international travel will follow. Javid said daily cases may rise to 100,000 when restrictions are fully lifted.
Neo-Nazi admits terror offences BY SIMCHA ABIR A neo-Nazi teenager from Derbyshire has admitted terror offences at Westminster Magistrates’ Court after threatening an attack on migrants at Dover. The fifteen-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to encouraging terrorism and possessing and disseminating a terrorist publication after discussing an attack on a far-right Telegram channel he created. The teen had a previous conviction for threatening to blow up a mosque last year but was only cautioned for a “bomb hoax, a prank and a joke”. However, in court he appeared with a 16-year-old co-defendant from southeast London who admitted dissemination of a terrorist publication. Campaign Against Antisemitism has reported on a growing trend of far-right terrorist activity among British teens. Only last month, CAA noted that recent Home Office figures found 300 people had been identified in 2019/20 who could be seen to harbour radical views, 175 were under 20 years of age and 70 under 14 years.
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A CAA spokesperson said, “The apparent increase of youths joining far-right hate groups is an extremely concerning threat to society, and demands ongoing vigilance and swift action from law enforcement. We closely monitor far-right hate groups and dangerous individuals, and continue to seek prosecutions for those who pose a serious danger by disseminating hate.” The latest neo-Nazi teen investigation revealed videos that he made featuring Hitler, Nazis murdering victims in concentration camps and a woman singing “All Jews should die, race mixing is a sin”. He also searched the internet for weapons. Senior National Coordinator for Counterterrorism Policing, Dean Haydon, reportedly said, “We cannot hope to arrest our way out of this problem, the only way we can hope to reverse this worrying prevalence of children in our arrest statistics is to stop them from being radicalised in the first place.” Earlier this year, a Cornwall teenager became the UK’s youngest terror offender after admitting 12 terrorism offences, a Newcastle teenager also pleaded guilty to terrorism offences.
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Bennett coalition loses Knesset ‘Citzenship’ vote BY ADAM MOSES Israel’s coalition government has experienced its first setback after the Citizenship Bill failed to pass its annual Knesset vote following a bitter all-night debate early Tuesday morning. Legislation denies citizenship to potential Palestinians terrorists who marry Israelis. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett declared the vote a motion of confidence in his government but MKs voted 59-59 to reject the bill. Two MKs abstained. Two Ra’am members backed the bill, including chairman Mansour Abbas. Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked will now review requests by Palestinians on an individual basis. Shaked announced an extension to the bill for six months rather than a year, residency rights for 1,600 Palestinians, and the establishment of a committee to find humanitarian solutions for 9,700 Palestinians. The government, on a positive note, did not fall, as a 61-member majority was required for its removal. And the result produced “understandings” on a controversial issue. However, coalition and the opposition exchanged insults after the bill’s defeat. The coalition accused the opposition of harming Israel’s security by playing petty politics whilst the opposition accused the coalition of forming “a corrupt deal in the
Naftali Bennett
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
middle of the night”. The law was passed in 2003 during the Second Intifada over security concerns about Palestinian terrorists abusing the system to gain full access inside Israel. Since then, it has been renewed every year, for the last decade, under Likud. Last month, Shin Bet Security Service recommended maintaining the law to protect Israeli security interests but the controversial law splits Israeli Arabs and Palestinians
in the West Bank. The deadline posed difficulties for Bennett’s government due to its diversity. Religious Zionist Party chairman Betzalel Smotrich said Yamina “agreed to grant Palestinians the ‘right of return’ in several instalments.” Bicom noted a bizarre sight of Joint List and right-wing opposition MKs celebrating. Yamina issued a statement, “Led by Bibi and Tibi, the opposition did not succeed in toppling the government but together caused direct harm to the security of Israel and abandoned its borders. This is how petty politics at the expense of Israeli citizens looks.” Prior to the vote, Opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu told his Likud faction, “With all due respect for this law, the importance of toppling the government is greater, this isn’t just a law. It’s a law that exposes the fault line in this government, whose purpose is to advance an anti-Zionist agenda.” Prime Minister Bennett slammed opposition MKs for planning to vote down the law. “There are things that you do not play with, state security is a red line and the state needs control over who enters it and who becomes a citizen,” Bennett said, adding the opposition must “take national responsibility”. “Bringing in thousands of Palestinians
and naturalising them harms state security, all for another political point,” he added. Defence Minister Benny Gantz called on the opposition to back the law on security grounds. “This law is essential for safeguarding the country’s security and Jewish and democratic character, and security considerations need to be put before all political considerations,” Gantz said in a statement. “Even in difficult times politically, we put Israel before everything.” Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said if the Knesset vote doesn’t pass it would not bring down the coalition. “This is not a big disaster, even if it does not pass, the cases will go to individual review in the Foreign Ministry. Governments do not fall or rise on it,” he noted. Lapid added, “Our partners from Ra’am and Meretz have presented quite a few cases in which the law caused unnecessary humanitarian damage. We will establish a mechanism to reduce them. “Israel is not only a Jewish state but a democratic one. There will be no easy solutions to difficult problems, but they will improve the situation.” Male spouses over 35 and female spouses over 25 can apply for a renewable permit. Palestinians unable to get permits living with spouses in Israel can be deported. Palestinian spouses from Gaza have been banned since Hamas seized power in 2007.
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Tory government “zero tolerance” at Palestinian curriculums BY ADAM MOSES The UK Government has pledged “zero tolerance” regarding Palestinian school curriculums detailing extreme material following a European Union study. Conservative MPs raised concerns over the EU review into Palestinian textbooks at a Westminster Hall debate last week. The long-delayed EU report by the Georg Eckert Institute last month confirmed PA curriculums incited violence against Israel, promoted terrorism, taught antisemitism and rejected peacemaking with Israel. Conservative Friends of Israel called on the UK to “act decisively”. Eight MPs condemned the UK’s use of taxpayers’ money to pay salaries of Palestinian teachers using the material and called for the government to give greater funding to peaceful coexistence projects. The debate was led by Caroline Ansell MP. Opening, she noted, “The EU report clearly identifies evidence of anti-Jewish racism within the curriculum.” The MP for Eastbourne shared examples of findings including glorification of the Munich Olympics terror attack and antisemitic tropes. Ansell called for the government to take concrete action against the PA as the curriculum undermined a peaceful two-state solution the Tory government strives to support. “Nothing will perpetuate this conflict as much as seeding it in generation after generation of children and young people,” she noted. “The report, taken as a whole, is clear, the Palestinian curriculum remains deeply problematic. It is my sincere hope that the UK Government and its international partners will use it, such as it is, as a catalyst for change”. Stephen Crabb MP, CFI Parliamentary Chairman (Commons), stressed a need for a “well-defined position” by the government towards the PA. “At a time when we are making deep cuts to important humanitarian programmes overseas, we are protecting funding for the Palestinian public sector,” he noted. “If we are going to do that, surely we should demand the highest possible standards, to really foster that culture of tolerance and respect and to work against hate and violence, which risks dragging that region back into old cycles”. John Howell MP, CFI Vice-Chairman, added that at least 31 Palestinian schools were named after terrorists and three after Nazi collaborators teaching Palestinian children that such actions were “honourable” and “rewarded with respect and glory”.
Caroline Ansell MP
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
Howell added that such rhetoric had resulted in children committing terror acts since 2016. “Palestinian minors have been involved in as many as 116 terror attacks that killed five Israelis and injured dozens,” he confirmed. Miriam Cates MP said governments around the world failed to hold the PA to account whilst Christian Wakeford MP noted the government had a “proud record of taking decisive action to tackle antisemitism”, but had a “blind spot” with the PA’s promotion of antisemitic ideas in the curriculum. He added, “It is essential that we do not lose another generation to conflict. If it is right that we are stamping out antisemitism in the UK, how can we fund it abroad?” Wakeford also raised concern that Palestinian Prime Minister Shtayyeh had vowed to continue printing the textbooks and pay for them with “water, telephone and electricity bills” if required. Chris Green MP highlighted the “toxic” promotion of violence in the Palestinian curriculum. “We have to find mechanisms to cut this out immediately,” he noted. Responding to speeches, FCDO Minister James Duddridge acknowledged there were
clear “concerns” with the curriculum. “This debate is part of the process, not the end of it”,” he noted. “There is an acceptance that the report found that there continues to be anti-Israel, antisemitic comment in those textbooks. That clearly is not acceptable to the House or to the Government. The UK Government continue to have zero tolerance for incitement to hatred and antisemitism in all forms”. “If children are not educated in an inclusive way, it will make life worse,” he added. Sadly, according to Campaign Against Antisemitism, a number of MPs in the debate appeared to claim, without foundation, that Israeli textbooks may exhibit similar incitement, Israel was blame for incitement in the PA textbooks or incitement did not really matter. Labour Party MP Julie Elliott noted there was “room for improvement in Israeli schools”. “That is the nub of the problem,” she noted whilst her colleague, Andy Slaughter, condemned Israel for 53 years “military occupation” as the “real root of the problem” and SNP’s Brendan O’Hara slated Israel over “human rights abuses”. A CAA spokesperson responded, “It is extraordinary that MPs from a variety of parties would look not to condemn antisemitic incitement in textbooks but to excuse or downplay it. There is little point condemning antisemitism when it arises in British schools while rationalising it when it occurs abroad. Racism is racism, and it should have no place in the education of children, no matter where in the world they happen to be learning.” Conservative MPs and Peers have repeatedly raised concerns over the PA’s curriculum in parliamentary debates, questions and letters to successive Foreign Ministers. The study undertaken by the GEI for International Textbook Research provided an objective analysis of current textbooks regarding international education standards and was finalised in February 2021 but has just been published following growing pressure. The report details radical material from 156 textbooks and 16 teachers guides used between 2017-19 academic years. The PA introduced curricula reforms resulting in new subject textbooks in 2017/18. The EU financed the study on the basis of UNESCO-defined criteria of peace, tolerance and non-violence in education. EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Oliver Varhelyi, said the EU should consider conditioning aid to the PA on removal of antisemitism and incitement from its textbooks.
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Rabin’s Rolex watch sells for $95K Former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s Rolex watch has sold at auction for $95,000. The Rolex 1680 was purchased by Rabin and his wife Leah whilst Ambassador to the US in 1972 at a jewellery shop in Washington. After his assassination in 1995, his son Yuval inherited the watch. Yuval sold the watch estimated at $60,000-$80,000 at the Tirosh Auction House in Israel. The buyer, an Israeli high-tech businessman living in the US, purchased the watch as a symbol of hope for peace. “I know how difficult it is to make changes but also know how inevitable change is,” he reportedly said. “I look forward to the day when every second that this watch is ticking is bringing real change in the way we Israelis treat one another, regardless of political views, heritage and background, and the way we Israelis treat our neighbours.” He added, “I hope to one day have the honour of leading or supporting the massive change that is coming to Israel, change that Rabin could have achieved if time had not been taken from him so tragically.”
Bennett and Putin hold talks Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has held his first talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin since taking office last month. The leaders discussed security and political issues but a prime focus was the two dead Israeli soldiers and two Israeli civilians held by Hamas. A ceasefire must include the return of Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed held captive by Hamas since 2014 and 2015 respectively, and IDF soldiers Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul killed in Operation Protective Edge in 2014. Hamas must provide proof of life for prisoner swap negotiations. There are reports Israel has provided a list of prisoners they will release in exchange for MIAs. Bennett thanked Putin for the role his country plays in maintaining regional stability. He also acknowledged a historical connection between the two nations, citing Russian aliyah, which represented a “bridge between the two countries”. Bennett and Putin agreed to meet for direct talks. The IDF has concern over Iran’s military position in Syria where Russia has forces aiding President Bashar al-Assad. Moscow reportedly fears Israeli military activity will harm its interests in the region.
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Rivlin praises German President over antisemitism
Frank-Walter Steinmeier
BY BELLA WAXLER President Reuven Rivlin has met with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier German in Jerusalem. Rivlin praised Steinmeier in battling anti-Semitism in one of his last meetings before stepping down from the post. Isaac Herzog succeeded Rivlin yesterday. During a visit to Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, Steinmeier said the “unspeakable suffering” caused in Germany’s name “fills us with pain and shame.” “We will keep the memory of this alive for the sake of those who were murdered and for the sake of future generations,” he noted. Rivlin hosted Steinmeier at his official residence, and according to comments released by Rivlin’s office, the German President reinforced his country’s support for Israel. “It does not matter how quickly the world changes, we will do our best to preserve the special friendship between Israel and Germany,” he noted. “Germany will continue to stand by Israel, and Israel will continue to be a wonderful friend to Germany.” Steinmeier also met Prime Minister Naftali Bennett in Jerusalem. The two leaders held a private meeting then met in a press forum. The prime minister’s office said in a statement the leaders discussed Iran’s nuclear program and Bennett restated Israel’s determination to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Bennett has been clear on Iran since succeeding former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite critics in political quarters. “Israel will not restrain itself when ensuring its security,” Bennett said at a memorial service for Theodor Herzl in Jerusalem. “The State of Israel will always defend itself.
PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA
We will act resolutely and continuously against any emerging threats, both within and without.” He added, “The Jewish state depends on us, in our ability to preserve it and its unique values and character, its security, economic and social prosperity. We must still remember that the process is not irreversible. We must never rest on our laurels.” Steinmeier, who invited Bennett to visit Germany, congratulated the new Israel leader on forming a new coalition. “We formed a government that has different voices, and we are determined to advance the State of Israel,” noted Bennett. The German President also addressed May’s conflict between Israel and Hamas, noting “the Israel-Palestine conflict was by no means calmed.” Steinmeier backed a two-state solution and called for confidence-building measures between Israel and the Palestinians. He also condemned missile attacks by Palestinian terror groups at Israeli civilians as “something we will never accept.” Steinmeier invited Bennett to visit Germany when possible. Germany recently launched an initiative with the US to combat rising anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial globally. The US-Germany ‘holocaust dialogue’ built momentum during the coronavirus pandemic. Educational and messaging tools are being developed to teach about crimes of the Nazis and collaborators. Rivlin enjoyed a successful final official visit for Israel to Washington last week. US President Joe Biden hosted Rivlin at the White House and vowed that Iran would not get a nuclear weapon “on his watch” during a number of high profile meetings. Rivlin also met United Nations officials in New York and congressional lawmakers from both parties in Washington.
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Labour Cllr under investigation BY SIMCHA ABIR A Scottish Labour councillor is under investigation by the Labour Party after appearing to backtrack on inflammatory comments claiming that former party leader Jeremy Corbyn was suspended from the party for “expressing free speech.” Cllr Jim Sheridan made the comments last week during a debate at Renfrewshire Council on the effect on free speech of the recently-passed Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Bill. Sheridan was reportedly quoted as saying in the debate, “As someone who was personally attacked for contributing, or making, what I thought was perfectly reasonable comments about antisemitism, I was attacked for free speech. And I also include, Provost, the former leader of the Labour Party, who was thrown out of the Labour Party for expressing free speech.” Sheridan appeared to be referring to a
comment that he posted on Facebook antisemitic incidents, Cllr Sheridan in 2018, reportedly stating, “For almost has dismissed the concerned voices of all my adult life I have had the utmost thousands of British Jews,” they noted. respect and empathy for the Jewish com“Cllr Sheridan was previously suspended munity and their historic suffering. No from, and readmitted to, the Labour Party longer due to what they and their Blairite after referring to the Jewish community plotters are doing to my party and the as ‘Blairite plotters’. However, it is clear long suffering people of Britain who need that his readmission was a mistake, and a radical Labour government.” that he has not altered his views on BritSheridan deleted the post, but, folish Jewry whatsoever.” lowing a complaint, was suspended by CAA added, “If the Labour Party is Labour pending investigation. sincere in its apparent desire to rebuild Last year, his suspension was reportedgood relations with the Jewish commuly lifted without explanation or apology nity in Britain, they need to back up their from the councillor. words with actions and enforce disciA Campaign Against Antisemitism complinary measures when they are clearly plaint against Sheridan is outstanding. required.” A CAA spokesperson voiced disapA Labour Party spokesman said, “Scotpointment, though not surprise that tish Labour takes all complaints of antiSheridan had doubled down on his insemitism extremely seriously and they PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA flammatory comments regarding Corbyn. Cllr Jim Sheridan are fully investigated in line with our “By once again wielding the famil- was merely an attack on his freedom of rules and procedures, and any appropriate iar excuse that Mr Corbyn’s suspension speech, rather than the result of countless disciplinary action is taken.”
Israel aid Cyprus in raging forest fire BY LEAH WAXLER Israel has joined international efforts to extinguish a raging forest fire in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus. Reports of the “worst fire” in the country’s history has seen a huge response from nations including the UK, Greece and Italy. Smoke was visible in the capital, Nicosia, 45 miles from where the fire began. Cyprus’s Interior Minister Nicos Mouris confirmed four Egyptian farm workers died in the fires fanned by strong winds on Sunday. Their bodies were found 600m from a burnt-out vehicle near Odos. Nouris informed the Egyptian ambassador to Cyprus and has arranged repatriation. “It is the worst forest fire in the history of Cyprus,” Forestries Department Director Charalambos Alexandrou told Cyprus’s Omega TV. The blaze began last Saturday afternoon when eight mountain villages were evacuated. Some 20sq miles of forest and farmland were destroyed according to Cyprus’ environment ministry. Residents are angered at a slow response from authorities in battling the blaze. President Nicos Anastasiades described the fire as “an unprecedented tragedy” and largest since 1974 when Cyprus was divided following a Turkish invasion. Fire department officials said the entire Cypriot department has been mobilised. “This is a very difficult day for Cyprus,” Anastasiades tweeted. “All of the state’s mechanisms are in gear, and the priority is for no loss of life.
“It passed through like a whirlwind, it destroyed everything,” said Vassos Vassiliou, community leader of Arakapas, a community affected. Anastasiades vowed the government would provide “immediate assistance to the victims” and families. He visited a relief centre in Vavatsinia on Sunday, before travelling to affected areas. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett dispatched two firefighting planes and flame-retardant material from the National Fire and Rescue Authority squadron. Bennett with the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs backed assistance due to cooperation between the two countries’ fire and rescue services. Foreign Minister Yair Lapid spoke with Cypriot Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides and said Israel would do everything to assist. The European Union deployed aerial assistance. The EU’s emergency Copernicus satellite was activated to provide damage assessment maps. The Royal Air Force base near Limassol tweeted images of helicopters taking part in operations. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with the Republic of Cyprus as we work together to overcome this tragedy,” said commander of British Forces Cyprus, Maj Gen Rob Thomson. Cyprus has experienced temperatures exceeding 40 Celsius. Police have questioned a 67-year-old person in connection with the horrific blaze.
Police investigate “torrent of antiSemitic abuse” on London transport BY ADAM MOSES Police are investigating two antisemitic incidents inside an hour against a Jewish man subjected to a “torrent of anti-Semitic abuse” on London transport last Saturday night. Campaign Against Antisemitism is in contact with Police and Transport for London. A Twitter user uploaded audio and video footage of his brother facing abhorrent abuse on a London bus. The incident occurred on the 113 bus heading towards Oxford Circus on Saturday night. A passenger can be heard threatening the man that he would “slit your throat for Palestine”. He can also be heard saying, “I’ll beat the s*** out of you, man.” The passenger after being ordered off the bus, swore at the Jewish man and banged on the doors of the bus. An hour earlier, the Jewish man was subjected to anti-Semitic chanting at Oxford Circus station. In shocking video footage a chant “I f****** hate the Jews” can be clearly heard twice. In a statement, British Transport Police said, “We’re aware of a video posted online of a group displaying antisemitic behaviour on a London Underground escalator. We take such incidents very seriously and are investigating.” Separately, Metropolitan Police has launched an investigation over the anti-Semitic abuse” on the central London bus. The force is aware of a video posted on social media and will be meeting the victim to gain more information. CAA responded to the Twitter user, noting, “Thank you for exposing this appalling abuse. We will be following up privately, but for those reading the thread we
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Antisemitic tirade on bus
PHOTO: TWITTER
wanted to note that police investigations have now been opened and we are in touch with police and Transport for London. #ZeroTolerance”. Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl condemned the abuse. “It is absolutely intolerable that a Jewish passenger travelling on public transport should be subjected to disgusting racist threats and abuse in the UK in 2021 not once but twice on the same day,” she said. “Those responsible must be tracked down and prosecuted.” The incidents came after recent figures showed a surge in anti-Semitic attacks in London linked to recent violence between Israel and Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Community Security Trust has recorded the highest total for a single month since records began. Witnesses should telephone 0800 405040 or text 61016 quoting ref 90 of 4 July 2021.
8 JULY 2021
Tributes paid to IDF commander after sudden death
Colonel Sharon Asman
BY ADAM MOSES Tributes have been paid to Nahal Brigade commander Colonel Sharon Asman who died in the midst of a combat fitness drill at Beit Lid camp near Netanya. Asman, 42, collapsed last Thursday, just 48 hours after taking up command of the unit. He was pronounced dead at the scene after failing to respond to medical treatment. Col Ashman’s funeral took place at Kiryat Shaul Cemetery last Sunday. Outgoing Nahal Brigade commander Col. Israel Shomer has been reinstated as head of the infantry brigade until a successor is appointed. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett led condolences to Asman’s family on behalf of the citizens of Israel. “Col. Asman was one of the best of our sons,” he noted, “He contributed his best years to maintaining Israel’s security. His untimely departure is an unfortunate and painful event. Our hearts go out to the dear family.” “Sharon was a commander whose character spoke for itself, professional, thorough, unflappable, brave, decisive and balanced,” Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Aviv Kohavi reportedly said at the funeral. “A man of thought and action, and a gentleman.” “The IDF wants and needs officers of Sharon’s ilk. Officers who possess diverse capabilities and embody the principles of leadership,” Kohavi added. One of the most highly respected commanders, Asman, 43, enlisted in Nahal in 1997 and held a number of field, command, staff and training posts over 25 years of service with the IDF. He served as an officer in the Operations Division of the brigade and
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Commander of the 931st Shaham Battalion during Operation Protective Edge in 2014. Defence Minister Benny Gantz was devastated by Asman’s death. “Sharon led combat soldiers in all areas of their service,” Gantz tweeted. “He was a unique soldier throughout the entire command chain. I remember him well, as a platoon commander during Operation Protective Edge, and as a commander who led soldiers into the Gaza Strip. He was always focused on the mission, and exemplified heroism and peace of mind that characterised him so well.” President Reuven Rivlin said the incident was a “heavy loss” to the nation. Commander of the Southern Command Maj. Eliezer Toledano said the loss would be felt by the State of Israel who had lost “one of the IDF’s best field commanders”. When Asman replaced Shomer, Brig.Gen. Saar Tzur, head of the 162nd Armored Division, called Asman “a commander and warrior.” “Together with the brigade’s commanders and soldiers, you will march the brigade to another high level and to operational success,” he said. Asman was a registered organ donor, his family donated his organs. Asman’s widow thanked her late husband for wonderful years characterised by love and friendship. “We’re not saying goodbye, we will always be together,” she said. The circumstances of Asman’s death are being investigated by a senior medical officer, an IDF spokesperson said. Medical issues analysed will include resuscitation devices and preventive medical care. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
IDF honours SLA in historic ceremony Israel has honoured the South Lebanon Army who fought alongside the IDF in the first Lebanon War. Defence Minister Benny Gantz and IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi attended the landmark memorial honouring fallen soldiers following the IDF’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in May 2000. Former SLA members and bereaved families attended. Some SLA soldiers became Israeli citizens. During the ceremony, a number of SLA commanders received citations. “The gate to Lebanon was closed in a gesture that symbolised the end of hostilities,” Kochavi reportedly said in a speech thanking SLA soldiers. “This period left us with a debt. A debt of honour and appreciation to you, the fighters of the SLA, who fought by our side.” Kockavi added that the SLA showed patriotism to fight terrorist groups against Lebanon and Israel.” “Lebanese and Israeli soldiers were deployed side by side, along and across the border, reporting to each other and covering each other,” he recalled. Kochavi, who served in Lebanon with the SLA, added that this was the first time in Israel’s history the State had awarded
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Boston Chabad rabbi recovering after stabbing BY DAVID SAFFER Rabbi Shlomo Noginski is recovering after being stabbed eight times in broad daylight near Shaloh House Jewish Day School in Boston, MA last Thursday. According to reports, Noginski, a teacher at the school, was sitting at the steps of the Shaloh House on his mobile phone when the suspect allegedly approached him, drew a gun and demanded Noginski’s car keys. When the suspect allegedly attempted to force Noginski into the car, he ran to Brighton Common Park where the suspect allegedly stabbed him multiple times in the arm. As Noginski fought back, the assailant fled before being quickly arrested by police. According to court documents, Awad kicked an officer in the stomach during his arrest. Noginski was taken to a hospital and transferred to Boston Medical for trauma treatment. The Chabad rabbi said it was a “miracle” he had survived the attack in a frank interview with i24News in Tel Aviv this week. “A great miracle happened to me,” Noginski told the station. “He only managed to stab me eight times in my arm and my limbs but it could have been much worse. I feel relatively great and I thank God for the miracle.” Khaled Awad, 24, was held without bail last Friday after pleading not guilty to assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon and assault and battery on a police officer. A hearing to determine whether he’s a danger is scheduled for today.
A motive remains unclear as police investigate the brutal attack but a hate crime has not been ruled out. The Anti-Defamation League, New England, said there are ”’multiple indicators pointing towards antisemitism” and called on police to investigate the incident as a hate crime. “I don’t think there’s a member of our Jewish community who did not hear about this stabbing and think to themselves, ‘Oh my G-d, it’s happened here in Boston,’” Marc Baker, Combined Jewish Philanthropies Rabbi Shlomo Noginski president, commented. Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael crime or not, and we will get the answers Rollins confirmed that the District Attorney’s we seek.” Civil Rights Unit and Boston Police DepartJaney added, “I believe that an attack on ment Civil Rights Unit were conducting a any member of our community is an attack potential hate crime. on all of us.” Noginski told Lubavitch.com from hos“We have to recognise that anti-Semitism is on the rise and we need to hold people pital he was grateful to the Boston Police accountable when they do this so that they Department for their rapid response perpeare made an example of,’ Rollins reportedly trator was in custody. said. “It’s important that we recognise with Shaloh House Jewish Day School was esrespect to the Jewish community that not tablished in 1962 and serves Jewish children only globally, but locally, they are being ter- in the Boston area. It has been under the direction of Rabbi Dan Rodkin since 2000. rorised and hate crime is on the rise.” Mayor Kim Janey said the investigation had Rabbi Rodkin said in a statement, “We shaken the community who needed answers. are all very shaken by what happened and “It is important that we understand what ask for you to please keep Rabbi Noginski the motives of this hate, of this violence are,” in your prayers. We are heartened by the she reportedly said. “An investigation is un- outpouring of concern and compassion we derway to determine whether this is a hate have received in just the last hours since the
The buoyancy of the current job market The Work Avenue Jobs Board – which is tailored to advertising roles to members of the Jewish community – has more jobs being offered now than ever before in the charity’s history. Whereas, during the first lockdown, just seven roles were being offered some months, in June 2021 there were just shy of 80. That is a record for Work Avenue, the Jewish community’s leading employment and business support organisation which was founded in 2006. The charity has also reported a growth in people taking on these jobs. In June, Work Avenue placed 12 clients directly into roles – double May’s total of six. For those using Work Avenue’s services – including CV building, workshops and one-to-one advice – and then finding outside roles, June’s total of 61 was triple that of May. Interim CEO Emma May said: “After the number of vacant positions slumped during the pandemic, the recent relaxation of restrictions and optimistic economic forecast
has led to a boom in hiring.” One Work Avenue client who has found work in the recent upturn is Dan Oz, who was both changing countries and careers – moving from Vienna to London and looking for a role in property management. He told the Jewish Weekly: “Work Avenue has been a brilliant partner, helping me to update my CV and coaching me on how best to present myself in interview. “By the time a really good position came
up, I was ready. I am delighted to say I got the job! “Work Avenue made the whole process of applying for jobs less intimidating and less lonely.” Many of the new jobs being offered are often different to the ones that were lost, meaning that others will need to follow Dan’s path and seek assistance. Emma added: “We are finding that some applicants will not be aligned to the vacant roles in terms of their skills and/or experience. “This is where Work Avenue is here to help with everything from CV advice and help articulating your transferable skills to workshops and one-to-one assistance. “For those wishing to change career entirely, it is worth looking into the Richard Mintz Bursary Fund – which provides up to 80% funding for courses in key areas – and WAGE, Work Avenue’s social enterprise, where job seekers and career changers will receive subsidised courses, followed by paid work in their chosen field and a mentor to guide them.”
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incident.” At the time of the stabbing, campers were off site, others were safe in the building. The school building went into lockdown and no campers were harmed. It has since been reported that a Jewish roommate of Awad at the University of Southern Florida took out a restraining order after being attacked by him last year, CBS Boston reported. Aidan Anderson, who is Jewish, and Eric Valiente, shared an apartment with Awad where he studied chemical engineering. PHOTO: FACEBOOK Aidan reportedly told CBS Boston. “I’m Jewish. And he knew that from the time I moved in.” Though friends, Awad’s anti-Semitism became apparent. “He was very much anti-Semitic,” Eric reportedly noted. “He would say like all types of Jewish jokes. I thought he was joking at first and then I started to see the seriousness in his comments.” After the assault, Awad moved elsewhere in Boston. Eric reportedly said, “I wanted nothing to do with the guy. At this point, I was a little scared of him. I was scared of what he was capable of because I realise he was a very dark person.” Boston Police confirmed Awad has no criminal record in Massachusetts. Psalms are being said for Shlomo Ben Zlata Miriam.
Lewis backs Northern Irish Jewish community Jewish leaders have met with Northern Ireland Secretary of State Brandon Lewis to urge the government to take action and avoid the Northern Ireland Protocol potentially ending Jewish life in Belfast. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl, together with Reverend David Kale and Michael Black of the Belfast Jewish community, attended. Supply of kosher food from Great Britain to Northern Ireland has continued with interim arrangements, but, under the NI Protocol, this will end in September. Once kosher food and religious artefacts cannot be supplied, the Jewish community is in danger of collapsing. The Tory Minister pledged support, alongside Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the Government’s lead EU negotiator, Lord Frost, on the pressing matter. Ms van der Zyl said, “The Belfast Jewish community is a great community with a rich history, but also an older and vulnerable one. We thank the Minister for his time, and urge the UK and the EU to generate a creative solution which means that Jews can continue to practise their faith in Northern Ireland.” The protocol aims to avoid a hard border with the Republic of Ireland.
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Tropical Storm Elsa hampers Surfside search BY DAVID SAFFER Heartbroken families are coming to terms that no more survivors will be found from the 12-story tower block in Surfside after the remaining part of the collapsed building was demolished over safety fears that Tropical Storm Elsa was approaching Florida. The remains of 36 people who died in the disaster have been recovered, over 100 remain unaccounted. The Miami-Dade Police Department named more victims of the Champlain Towers South residential condominium this week. They included Tzvi and Itty Ainsworth, discovered by rescue workers Monday. The couple split their time between Australia and Miami to be near their children. David and Bonnie Epstein had retired from the property indusSearch and rescue at Surfside try, they were identified Shabbat. Aryey and Ruth Oliwkowicz, originally from Venezuela, were named a Miami-Dade County Assistant Fire Chief week ago. Raide Jadallah confirmed. The first victim was identified as Stacie With so many people unaccounted for, Fang, 54, Chabad. org reported. Her son, the federal government has sent a specialJonah Handler, 15, miraculously survived ist University of Florida team to help with when a man heard his cries for help and DNA analysis. More help could follow, notsaw his hands in the rubble. ed Jason Byrd, Commander of the Florida Stacie, originally from New York City, was Mortuary Operations Response System. Vice President at Surfside-based Customer Dennis Dirkmaat, chairs the Department Relationship Management Conference. of Applied and Forensic Sciences at Mer“There are no words to describe the tragic cyhurst University. loss of our beloved Stacie,” a family stateDirkmaat worked on recovery and idenment said. “The members of the Fang and tification of victims from United Airlines Handler families would like to express our Flight 93, which crashed in Pennsylvania deepest appreciation for the outpouring on 9/11. of sympathy, compassion and support we “You know exactly where they’re locathave received. The many heartfelt words of ed,” he said. “You can eventually place encouragement and love have served as a them in a particular apartment or a parmuch-needed source of strength during ticular location.” this devastating time.” An IDF Home Front Command delegaThe rescue effort was delayed with the tion has been at the disaster site for days. tropical storm developing. Defence Minister Benny Gantz approved Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella extending their stay for an additional week. Levine Cava told reporters at a news conThe decision followed requests by local ference, “Truly they (rescue teams) live to Jewish organisations and updates about save lives and they’ve pushed ahead no the effectiveness of the Israeli delegation, matter what is thrown in their way.” the Defence Ministry said in a statement. Gantz added, “Israel will continue to City of Miami Fire Rescue Capt. Ignatius Carroll told reporters that crews remained reach out to any country in need, particufocused on the primary mission to find larly to our American friends and our Jewas many victims to help bring answers to ish brothers and sisters in the diaspora.” family or some closure for them. Lt. Col. Oz Gino, commander of the delTragically, nobody has been discovered egation said his team had used building alive since June 24. Informing families of blueprints to create 3D images of the site to updates has been challenging. aid the search. They also gathered informa“It’s not necessarily that we are finding tion from families to build a room-by-room victims, we are finding human remains,” model layout at the collapse.
any way you can let somebody go up in that building given the shape that it’s in now.” Levine Cava signed the demolition order on Friday. The search-and-rescue mission at the Surfside building was suspended Saturday afternoon so workers could begin preparations. “Once this building is down, it’s going to be a green light, full speed ahead, maximum effort to pull these victims out and reunite them with their family,” Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett told CBS’ “Face the Nation.” Officials considered demolition last Thursday when parts of the remaining building moved, resulting in a 15-hour suspension of rescue work for evaluation. News of the impending Tropical Storm Elsa escalated matters. Assistant Fire Chief Jadallah PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK kept relatives informed. DeSantis said demolishing the With many occupants believed to be “tottering” and “structurally unsound” Jewish, emergency workers have worked structure was the prudent thing to do. with a rabbi to ensure religious rituals are “If the building is taken down, this will protect our search and rescue teams, beobserved. Mark Rosenberg, Chesed Shel Emes, has cause we don’t know when it could fall 20 people available when someone is dis- over,” he said at a news conference. “And, of course, with these gusts, potentially that covered to recite memorial prayers. Yossi Landau, of Zaka, said a crew was would create a really severe hazard.” available to assist with burial preparation. “The fear was that (Elsa) may take the Following the demolition last weekend, building down for us and take it down Levine Cava told NBC’s Today, “We under- in the wrong direction,” Surfside Mayor stand that families realise the fact that time Charles Burkett added. has gone by, they realise that the chances Elsa was downgraded from a Category 1 are growing all dimmer. They are with us, hurricane to a tropical storm as it passed they know what we’ve been doing every the Dominican Republic and Haiti. step of the way.” The long-term forecast though showed Beachside communities in the area held it was heading toward Florida by Tuesday subdued events for the Fourth of July. Mi- morning. Meteorologists warned that it ami Beach cancelled its Independence Day could bring heavy rain and gusty winds to celebrations. the Miami area. Ahead of the demolition, Levine Cava It has not yet been determined what advised nearby residents to remain indoors caused nearly half the 12-storey, 156-unit and close windows until two hours after it building, to collapse. was completed. No other buildings were But condominium owners were reportevacuated before the demolition. edly due to start making payments for $9 As soon as the building is down and it is million in repairs recommended in a 2018 safe, our first responders will resume their report warning of “major structural damsearch efforts,” she told a press conference. age” under the 40-year-old tower. Some families asked to return to the Prosecutors are pushing for a grand jury building to retrieve personal belongings investigation into the deadly collapse. but were not allowed. Tehillim are being said for unaccounted “At the end of the day, that building is people. Over 12,400 individuals across the too unsafe to let people go back in,” Florida globe have so far donated over $1.4 million Gov. Ron DeSantis said. “I know there’s a to $5,000,000 a fund. lot of people who were able to get out, fortunately, who have things there. We’re very Donations: https://thechesedfund.com/ sensitive to that, but I don’t think there’s shulofbalharbour/miamitragedy
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Federation Edgware cemetery inauguration
New Federation Cemetery
Federation Trustees- Menachem Gertner, President Andrew Cohen, Leon Newmark, Moshe Winegarten and Jacky Weg
Leaders from across the London Jewish community gathered to mark the inauguration of the new Federation Cemetery in Edgware last Sunday. It is the first solely Orthodox cemetery to be located in the heart of north west London and first Federation Cemetery to be opened since the 1930s. The Edgwarebury Lane site is a welcome addition to the existing grounds in Edmonton and Rainham. The Chevra Kaddisha sanctified the land
PHOTO: LEIVI SALTMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
with seven Hakofos. Kohanim joined in the sanctification through burying of unusable Sifrei Torah. Following the recital of Tehillim, Federation Rov and Av Beis Din, HaRav Shraga Feivel Zimmerman shlit’a told the gathering that the opening of the new Federation Cemetery was a big step forward in serve the needs of a growing Orthodox community. “I am proud to lead this dynamic organisation dedicated to promoting the importance of Torah as the solution to all of life’s
PHOTO: LEIVI SALTMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
challenges and difficulties,” he said. Andrew Cohen, President of The Federation added, “Today’s inauguration is an acknowledgement of our history and also of our destiny. We pledged to return the Federation to its status as a powerhouse of Orthodox Jewry, driving our organisation onwards to become the prevailing leading light and a guiding voice of the community.” Special thanks were given by Menachem Gertner, Burial Society Treasurer and people who helped make this project a reality. A special mention was made to the late Cllr Brian Gordon z”l for his steadfast support. The new cemetery has space for over 7,000 burial plots, a purpose-built Taharah facility, mikvah and coffin making workshop. Jerusalem is a central focus of the new
cemetery. Jerusalem Stone, quarried in Israel, has been specially imported to clad the central spine of the Ohel building and is adorned by olive trees. All burial plots will face towards Jerusalem. The landscape and burial layout have been designed to include a state of the art drainage system. The Federation has also acquired a section of the Eretz HaChaim Cemetery near to Beit Shemesh in Israel for those who wish to be buried in the Holy Land. The Federation Burial Society is offering until October 1st,, for those aged 49 and under, to join without payment of a joining fee premium. Details: Head Office 020 8202 2263 or burial@federation.org.uk
FROM ANGUISH TO ACTION: JEWISH COMMUNITY CONFERENCE SUPPORTING THE UYGHURS
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Expert panellists (including senior faith leaders, UN diplomats and MPs Sir Iain Duncan Smith and Lisa Nandy) will offer practical advice on how to support the Uyghur Community
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ISRAEL POLITICS FROM THE KNESSET with political analyst JAMES J. MARLOW
QUESTIONS TO THE CORRESPONDENT Anat Stein asks: JAMES, In “The Jewish Weekly” last week, Miri Levy asked you about the citizen’s state law, so can you explain a little more about it and the implications of the Knesset vote in the early hours of Tuesday morning? Hello Anat: The citizen’s state law, also known as the family reunification law, blocks the automatic granting of Israeli citizenship or residency to Palestinian Arabs on the basis of marriage to an Israeli. The law was first passed in 2003 and applies for one year. Therefore the legislation has to be extended annually by a Knesset vote. However as the government has just a one seat majority and Labor, Meretz and Ra’am expressed their reservations about extending the law, the opposition parties attempted to embarrass the government by voting against it, even though Likud, Shas, UTJ and Religious Zionists really support it. This would in fact be the first time the Left-Centre-Right-Arab government bloc would feel the pressure since being voted in last month, as the eight parties agreed on only one issue – to oust Netanyahu. As it turned out, Arab Labor MK Ibtisam Mara’ana put forward a compromise which included reducing the proposed extension to just six months, issuing some 1,600 Palestinian families with A-5 residency visas and establishing a committee to find humanitarian solutions to the other 9,700 Palestinians residing in Israel on military-issued stay permits. The 6 Meretz and 4 Ra’am MK’s agreed to this and Bennett believed he had the numbers. In fact he declared that he regarded the vote “as a motion of confidence in the government.” As the speaker called for the vote to take place in the early hours of Tuesday morning, 2 of Ra’am’s 4 lawmakers decided to abstain, while Yamina MK Amichai Chikli voted against. The result was 59-59 which is a defeat for the fragile government and a major blow to the Lapid-Bennett coalition. The deadline for extending the legislation was midnight last Tuesday night. Amichai Chikli is the Yamina MK who voted against the establishment of the new coalition last month, but he then said he would vote with the government on most matters, seemingly giving it a cushion. However Chikli said he changed his mind because of the “compromise deal”. “Tonight we received proof of the problematic nature of a government that doesn’t have a distinct Zionist majority — one that starts the night with a law extension for a year and ends it with an extension for half a year, that starts with 1,500 permits and ends
the coronavirus pandemic and assisting women to leave prostitution. The president also expressed his uncompromising opposition to violence against women through the use of pardons. Reuven Rivlin will now be moving out of Beit HaNasi in Jerusalem and will be replaced by Isaac Herzog. Shoshana Scolnick asks: JAMES, Before the election, we were told especially by Avigdor Liberman that Yeshiva students would be enlisted in the army. Now that Liberman is Finance Minister, do we know how that is going?
Left to right: Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Finance Minister Avigdor Liberman, Justice Minister Gideon Saar, Deputy Minister Abir Kara at meeting to improve regulation and reduce excessive regulatory. Remarks were delivered on 6 July 2021 at the Government Press Office in Jerusalem.
with over 3,000. “Israel needs a functioning Zionist government, not a mishmash that depends on Ra’am and Meretz votes,” Chikli said. He later added that had the original extension motion remained “without the capitulation” in his words, to Meretz and Ra’am”, he would have supported it. In reality, it looked bad for Bennett because he can’t rely on Labor, Meretz and Ra’am. And it looked bad for Netanyahu, because right-wing opposition parties joined forces with the Arab Joint List, to deal a severe blow to Israel’s security. Joint List celebrated in the Knesset with hugs and jumping while the government screamed at opposition MK’s for playing politics. Some of the Likud MK’s shouted back in union “Shame, Shame, Shame” towards the government for allowing such a weak government to be formed and accused them on relying on anti-Zionist votes. The law was initially passed in 2003 after some 130,000 Palestinians entered Israel through “family reunification” between 1993 and 2003. This was during the time of Palestinian suicide bombings. The stated prime concern was that some Palestinians gaining Israeli status would engage in terrorism. But there was also a demographic matter, as security sources suggested that around 200,000 Palestinians would gain Israeli citizenship or residency every decade. Danny Brown asks: JAMES, President Reuven (Ruvi) Rivlin leaves office after serving as President of the State of Israel for seven years. In a nutshell, can you briefly explain who he was and what he achieved? I am asking for a friend.
PHOTO: KOBY GIDEON (GPO)
Hello Danny and hello to your friend: Reuven Rivlin was born to Rachel and Professor Yosef Yoel Rivlin, a scholar of Arabic culture and translator of the Quran into Hebrew. As a member of Herut and a lawyer by profession, Reuven served in a range of public roles in Jerusalem and then in Israeli governments and the Knesset, including as Speaker. In 2014 / 5774, Rivlin was elected Israel’s tenth president. During his term of office, President Rivlin issued 1797 pardons, deleted the criminal records of 318 soldiers, undertook 932 visits around the country, 131 overseas trips, 62 condolence calls on families who were victims of terrorist attacks, 190 condolence calls on families of fallen IDF solders, 33 state visits overseas, 877 diplomatic meetings, 5864 meetings, 866 events, 21 visits to hospitals, participated in 115 cultural events, swore in 454 judges and received diplomatic credentials from 168 ambassadors. In addition he has entrusted 8 candidates with forming a government over 5 elections and spent over 47 hours in consultations with Knesset parties. Rivlin also opened Beit HaNasi (the official president’s residence) for the first time in Israel’s history and has welcomed some 130,000 visitors for guided tours. President Rivlin made extensive efforts in announcing unique pardon programmes aimed at addressing social issues in Israel. These included repairing and healing relations with Ethiopian Jews and encouraging their integration in Israeli society, rehabilitation of young people with criminal backgrounds that enlisted in the IDF, supporting those affected economically by
Hello Shoshana: Your question doesn’t hint as to whether you would like to see them in the army or not. But the law that allowed the Defence Ministry to defer enlistment for chareidi students, expired last Monday. Although the state has asked for a six-month extension to pass a new law. This means that the Defence Minister (Benny Gantz), is no longer able to grant military deferrals to yeshiva students, which until now, was allowed by the High Court of Justice. So in reality, the Defence Ministry is now obligated to draft Yeshiva students who turn 18-years-old. But this of course will not happen, because the state will give the government time to pass a new law to regulate the standing of yeshiva students who seek to defer their enlistment, until they are over the maximum age of military service. This will be the state’s 10th request for an extension to the severely complex and divisive issue, since the High Court ruled in 2017 that blanket deferrals from enlistment were discriminatory and illegal. When Avigdor Liberman was Defence Minister between 2016 – 2018 in the Netanyahu led government, Liberman instructed a special committee in the ministry to draw up legislation which would increase enlistment, using economic sanctions against Yeshivot that do not fill the quotas. However one proposal put forward by chareidi coalition partners in the government was to postpone military service for Yeshiva students from the present 18-yearsold to 21-years-old. Those opposed argued that the students would study for three years as many do and then join the workforce or seek higher education without enlisting. In any case the meetings, arguments and negotiations went on and on and the state kept putting off the decision for 6 months – a bit like the American President signing a waiver form to postpone the relocation of the American Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem for 6 months, even though Congress passed the legislation in 1995.
Ask your Israeli political question to James J. Marlow by email: James@TheCommunicationBureau.com or Twitter @James_J_Marlow THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM
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LET’S “UP THE ANTE” The definition of human beings includes Jewish people Anti-Semitism is, (one of the oldest), a form of racism All forms of racism, in our Society, are unacceptable “End of,” hopefully going forward - end of this poem This poem was short but not sweet Please, all, have this one on repeat Share it widely with everyone you know And let’s all tell racism just where to go Let’s do whatever, whenever, and however, we all can To get racism, everywhere, to be given an eternal ban I want to wish all Jewish people a Shabbat Shalom And a good weekend to people of all faiths and none
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OPINION
OPINION 15
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Social media highlights antisemitism OPINION PIECE BY JAMES J MARLOW I recalled this week when I use to regularly travel on London transport with my friends in the seventies and eighties, the slogans: “We hate the Jews” and “Look, there go the Yidos”, were regularly shouted at us, even though we did not identify ourselves as Jews. Perhaps some were wearing a Magen David on a chain around the neck, or we had the distinctive initialled gold ring on our finger, given to us as a gift for our barmitzvah. Or maybe, some of the girls in our group talked so loudly, they were just known to be Jewish. But that was during a time in history, when most people did not fully understand the meaning of racial discrimination, anti-Semitic abuse or even the term, “health and safety.” If they did, they simply ignored the rules. We went to clubs, football matches and pop concerts and were very use to the familiar anti-Jewish chanting wherever we were. It was part of life. But today, in the twenty-first century, laws have been passed in Parliament that make it a crime, to use racial slogans against a member of an ethnic minority and this includes Jewish white people.
This week I viewed a number of videos of Jewish kids travelling on a London bus or the London underground with the same anti-Semitic slogans being chanted today as they were in my younger days. One man in his thirties, who is visibly Jewish, (i.e. black hat, beard, white shirt and tzitzit) was attacked on the 113 bus last Saturday night, heading towards Oxford Circus at 11.30pm. The black man, identified as a possible Somalian, used all the usual swear words with “Jewish” being inserted throughout. Yochai was pushed and hit and told by the mentally unstable deranged individual, “I will slit your throat”. This was all said in the name of “Palestine”. There were several people sitting on the bus, but not one person stepped in or spoke up, including the driver. I understand that passengers and the driver are fearful. Maybe the crazed suspect has a knife or pistol or at the very least, will go into a frenzy and beat the “living daylight” out of you. But Yochai had the good sense to take out his phone and record the long audio. When it got violent, he switched to video on his phone. How many of us can keep a cool head and hit the record button when necessary? The black man knew he was being recorded, but
couldn’t care, which suggested he could have been on a suicide mission. But Yochai threatened to call the police and the man simply stepped off the vehicle, whilst continuing to scream his anti-Jewish abuse. The 113 bus in question is based at Edgware garage and the Metropolitan took up the case once the video was uploaded to tweeter. A short while later Yochai was heading down an escalator at Oxford Circus tube with many England football fans around him. Some were Jewish boys, but not identifiable as Jewish. Amongst the crowd on the escalator is one man singing in a loud voice, “F****** hate the Jews” and “Look we got a Jew behind us”. The video appears to show some of his group telling him to shut up, but he ignores them and continues to sing. Once again Yochai has the smart sense to take out his phone and get a clear shot of the culprit. So how did I connect this with my youth? Jack Adler, a young Jewish teenager with his friends turned around on the escalator to Yochai and smiled, saying “You got about 9 Jews behind”. I watched the video over and over again and said to myself, not only do they look Jewish boys, who have just come from watching the football, that’s exactly what we looked like, many years ago. But yet these
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boys appeared very use to the anti-Semitic abuse last Saturday night, just like we were in the seventies. The next day, Yochai’s brother tweeted out the audio and video and it became a national news story with the Met Police, Jewish papers, BBC, Daily Mail and everyone else responding. At first, Jack Adler himself is accused of the abuse, but his Dad then gives an interview to one of the newspapers to clear his name. The point is that after more than 45 years, not much has really changed. The first black individual used “Palestine” as an excuse for the anti-Semitic attack. The second white English suspect probably didn’t even know what “Palestine” is, but stuck with the classic, “We hate the ******** Jews”. The question is would you step in or say something, if someone was being racially abused on public transport? James J. Marlow is a broadcast journalist previously working for ITN, EuroNews, LBC Radio, Daily Express and a number of Jewish publications. In addition, he runs a Media and Communications / Public Speaking Training Operation and was a consultant at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem. Email: James@ TheCommunicationBureau.com
16 OPINION
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OPINION
The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper
A small city in Lancashire OPINION PIECE BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN Just over 2 weeks ago, at a meeting of the Lancaster City Council a motion was passed which: Express its support for the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement’s demands that Israel ends injustices that infringe international laws and Palestinian rights. There was also a reference to divestment from the Council pension fund though the monitoring officer made it clear that the council that the Council would not be making any decision regarding the Pension Fund. In other words, the motion was little more than a bit of chest thumping from the far-left councillors who got together to produce a motion condemning Israel. It is now widely accepted that the BDS movement is intrinsically anti-Semitic, so what possible benefit is there to the people of Lancaster that their City Council should adopt a motion based on Jew-hate? The answer of course is none. This of course is not about the welfare of the population
of Lancaster, nor even about the welfare about Palestinians. It is another open attempt to create hostility against Jews hiding behind the gossamer thin veil of criticising Israel. For those who claim the two are not connected, just look at the recent increased attacks against Jews, most of which involve reference to Palestine. Its official; Palestine is the new Christ. When my mother was growing up in the 1930’s she was told that she was responsible for the death of Christ. Now, the Jew-hate is based on Palestine. The challenge for British Jews is to change the narrative. Instead of just reporting on the increase in Jew-hate, we need to be informing the wider community about the human rights abuses in Gaza and the payto-slay policy of the Palestinian Authority.
Those claiming to be supporting Palestine are not interested in peace, that much is evident. What is also becoming clear is that it is only the far-left who are obsessed with promoting the idea that BDS is about peace and human rights. The difficulty is that these people are influential, not because of the virtue of their cause but by virtue of their noise. The answer is not only to expose the people for their antisemitism, it is necessary to expose their claimed cause as being empty and ultimately wholly against the interests of the Palestinian people. Currently there are seen to be two sides – Israel and the Palestinians. This is inaccurate. The protagonists are better described as Israel which wishes to live in peace and those who wish to see it destroyed. It is
Instead of just reporting on the increase in Jew-hate, we need to be informing the wider community about the human rights abuses in Gaza and the pay-to-slay policy of the Palestinian Authority.
We must not simply stand by OPINION PIECE BY MARIE VAN DER ZYL Because of our history, many Jews feel that it is the responsibility of all of us in our community to stand up against persecution. Indeed, this year, we commemorated 76 years since the end of the Holocaust of Jews by Nazi Germany. Every year, on the 27 January, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the World remembers how one of the mightiest, most advanced nations in the world sought to commit genocide against a religious and ethnic minority in its midst. Let us remember what Elie Wiesel once said: what hurts the victim most is not the cruelty of the oppressor but the silence of the bystander. And so while we must continue commemorating and educating about the horrors of the Holocaust, we must also devote ourselves to coming to the aid of those who are facing oppression and persecution today, such as the Uyghurs. With that in mind, it is to its great credit that Magen Avot are hosting an entire conference on the topic of the Uyghurs this month. Indeed, for some time now we at the Board of Deputies of British Jews have been gravely concerned about the
treatment of the Uyghur people in China. In the past 18 months, as well as hosting a number of events with the World Uyghur Congress and Muslim partners to highlight this issue, and making a number of interventions with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on the subject, I also went on record – for the first time – to compare China’s treatment of Uighur Muslims to Nazi Germany’s treatment of Jews. This is not a comparison that I make lightly. Indeed, it is not one that should ever be thrown around recklessly. But nobody could watch the news reports over recent months about the Uyghurs, and fail to notice the similarities between what is alleged to be happening in the People’s Republic of China today and what happened in Nazi Germany 76 years ago. • People being forcibly loaded on to trains; • beards of religious men being trimmed; • women being sterilised; • and the grim spectre of concentration camps. And so, as President of the Board of Deputies, I took the decision that this was something that had to be said. Germany has rightly paid a heavy price for its persecution of the Jewish people. Its historic guilt rests heavily on it and, 76 years on, its leaders and representatives continue to do all they can to make
amends for the sins of their forebears. Germany has physically marked the atrocity with a moving memorial in the centre of its capital city and across the country individual paving stones bear the names of the people who were taken and murdered. We know that China has faced its own persecution and humiliation by other countries over a number of centuries. But China risks squandering its achievements and sabotaging its own legacy if it fails to learn the lessons of history. Earlier this year, the UK Parliament made a unanimous declaration that the treatment of the Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minorities in Xinjiang Province by the Chinese Government amounts to genocide. This historic vote, backed by MPs of all Parties, would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Nusrat Ghani MP, Lord Alton of Liverpool, the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China and of course the World Uyghur Congress. I pay tribute to their determination to ensure that the world does not turn aside and abandon the Uyghurs to their fate and reiterate, in no uncertain terms, that we stand with them in this struggle, now and always. The World will neither forgive nor forget a genocide against the Uyghur people. So we urge China today to: • release the Uyghur people and other
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though the people who live in Gaza and the West Bank who need to be engaged with the process, not far-left antisemites from Lancaster. And there lies the problem, since the regime there has no interest in peace, just a continuation of either an ideological battle or a simple desire to continue with a corrupt rule. Light needs to be shone on the impact that these regimes are having on the ordinary people of Palestine. These are repressive entities where the rights of women and gays are not only routinely dismissed but deliberately ignored by the far-left. The cynical manipulation of these ordinary people by Hamas and the P-A should be set out centre stage, so that the crocodile tears and lies of those who voted for the BDS motion last month in Lancaster will be seen for what they are. Robert Festenstein is a practising solicitor and has been the principal of his Salford based firm for over 20 years. He has fought BDS motions to the Court of Appeal and is President of the Zionist Central Council in Manchester which serves to protect and defend the democratic State of Israel. minorities from all ethnic and religious oppression; • throw open the doors of the camps to a full and impartial international investigation; - take action against the perpetrators of any human rights abuses; • and ensure justice for the victims and their families. This message ought to be heeded immediately, but sadly our experience to date shows that – so far - they are not listening. So I applaud the work that Magen Avot Synagogue and the United Synagogue are doing to raise awareness and push for action, such as this month’s conference. Campaigners on this issue have my support for important measures such as adding the names of more Chinese Government perpetrators to the UK ‘Magnitsky’ list, and proscribing companies and institutions which are facilitating these atrocities. As I wrote in my letter to the Chinese ambassador last year, our message to China is simple: The world is watching, and the hand of history is poised. For its future, China has a choice between great pride, or eternal shame. Let it choose the former. Marie van der Zyl is President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews. The Jewish community conference to support the Uyghurs will take place on Sunday, 5-8pm, via www.TheUS.tv/action. Speakers include Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP and Bennett Freeman, the former United States Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights & Labour.
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NEWS 17
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Southend mourns loss of Holocaust Survivor Leslie Kleinman (Z”TL) BY GARRY STEEL Wednesday 30th June saw the passing of Southend and Westcliff Hebrew Congregation’s most esteemed character, Leslie Kleinman BEM age 92. Leslie was born in a village near the Satmar district of pre-war Hungary, now Romania on 29th May, 1929. His name then was Lazar. Satmar, was overrun by the Nazis and the Jews were systematically deported to the camps. First, they came for his father. Not long after, he, his mother and seven siblings were transported to the camps. Packed liked sardines in a cattle truck without any proper sanitation, the family arrived at Auschwitz. Tragically that was the last time Leslie would see any of his family again. Jews had to line up before the infamous Dr Mengele. At a flick of a finger, Mengele would decide whether the Jews would live or die depending on their fitness for work. In the queue, a
young man standing behind Leslie asked him how old he was. “Fourteen”, Leslie said. “Tell him you’re seventeen”, the man said. Leslie was tall and fit for his age and could get away with it. When asked, he told Mengele he was seventeen and was sent in one direction. The rest of his family were sent the opposite way, unknown to them, to the gas chambers. Having survived the camps and two death marches, Leslie told me that whilst experiencing near death, he made a silent pact with Hashem. “Please let me get through this. If I do, I promise I will study the Torah and live to be a devout and good citizen”. Leslie survived. His liberators gave him a gun and told him they would turn a blind eye if he should ‘accidentally’ injure his captures. But that was not necessary. Despite the tortuous atrocity experienced, there was not an ounce of hate in his body, only love. Leslie was accepted on a program to transport a
Leslie Kleinman holds an Israeli flag at the entrance to Auschwitz
group, known as ‘the boys’ to the UK. He stuck to his word with G-d and went to yeshiva for a year. Leslie met his first wife, Evelyn and they had two children. Sadly his wife died through illness after many happy years together. Around 2008 by some quirk of fate, it was bashert that Leslie was to meet his lovely Miriam. Leslie had moved into our area and was looking for a shop to have some cards printed. Story has it, he passed a couple of printers then stumbled across another place that appealed. In the shop, he got talking to the Jewish husband and wife owners. The lady, Rosalind, invited Leslie to their home for a Shabbos meal. There he met Ros’s mother, Miriam, ironically the widow of a holocaust survivor of whom Leslie had been acquainted with sometime in the past. A romance blossomed and in 2011 they were married under the chupah in Israel. The then Southend and Westcliff Rabbi Bar flew out specially to perform the ceremony. The couple settled together in Westcliff and Leslie quickly became a minyan stalwart. It was then that Leslie decided to tell his story to the world. Not for self pity. He wanted to educate the younger generation about the atrocities by preaching love over hate. He became active with the Holocaust Education Trust and JRoots. He gave talks to local schools and others around the country. He described to me the uncanny phenomena of hundreds of squawking children amazingly turning silent as they were captivated by his story. He would say that if he could forgive and love after everything he had been through, then so could they and it was within their power to ensure the atrocities never happen again by opposing anti Semitism and racial hate. Leslie was also active within the JRoots organisation and under that auspices hosted groups on trips to Auschwitz. On one heart wrenching trip, he sat Shiva at the camp for each member of his family who perished. I first met Leslie in 2014. The organising of these trips was taking a lot of Leslie’s
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time. He got himself a computer to handle the necessary emails, letters and travel arrangements. Having not used a pc in any active way before, that aspect was difficult for him as it would be for anyone already in their eighties taking on a new skill. A friend of his recommended he contact me through my IT business as a way to guide him through the difficulties with his computer. I did not have to think twice about taking him on. We Jews are sickened by the holocaust. Anti Semitism continues to rise throughout Europe. Here was an opportunity to make a contribution to Leslie’s cause, however small. Keeping his computer equipment going, helping with emails and letter writing. That was the start of a loving friendship. He and I spent many hours talking. He would talk about his childhood and the dramatic experience of being torn away from his beloved family; his experience in the camps and life generally. Also, getting to know Miriam; one of the nicest Yiddisher Mammas I have ever met. I have so many stories to tell, I could write another 1000 words. I’ll finish with just a few anecdotes: One day Leslie called me. “I’ve received a brocha and I can’t open it”. I say “what do you mean a brocha, why would someone send you a brocha”? “I don’t know, it won’t play”. I checked it out for him. It wasn’t a brocha, it was a brochure. It’s easy to forget English was not Leslie’s first language. I get a call. “Garrrrrry, that b****y computer’s playing up again. I think it’s got the kremlins”. Leslie was like a father figure to me. I will miss him greatly as will everyone who ever knew him. His humility was respected by everyone including many esteemed rabbis. A lion amongst men. I rest assured Hashem will look after him in death as he did in life. I wish the family a long life and only simchas for many, many years. Amen.
BS’D
UNLOCKING OUR PAIN Tisha B’Av at Tisha B’Av. A day of tragedy. A day of memory. A day of pain. As we emerge from the trials of Covid and lockdown, let us come together to unlock the pain of a world struggling to find purpose amid the chaos and trauma.
MOTZEI SHABBAT - 17 TH JULY 22:30 22:50
WALKING THROUGH THE RUINS
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PUTTING TEARS INTO WORDS
MA’ARIV Explanatory Eicha reading with Rabbi Daniel Rowe
Stories to Inspire - with Jewish Futures educators
SUNDAY MORNING - 18TH JULY 09:00 10:00
SHACHARIT
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PROGRAMME FOR WOMEN
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HE WHO LAUGHED LAST
EXPLANATORY KINNOT
with Jewish Futures educators featuring: Rabbis Schiff, Roodyn, Garson & Levy
Explanatory Kinnot featuring: Rebbetzens Strom, Gefen & Roodyn
Rabbi Eli Birnbaum
SUNDAY EVENING - 18TH JULY 19:00
ON THE SHOULDERS OF A GIANT
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DESTROYED BY FIRE, REBUILT IN FLAME
20:45 21:15
MINCHA
21:55
MA’ARIV
A tribute to Leslie Kleinman BEM
with Rabbi Daniel Rowe
THE KEY TO UNLOCKING HOPE with Rabbi Yitsy David
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https://9av.jfutures.org/programme Location: Hendon. Due to Covid guidelines, attendance requires registration in advance.
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Cantor survived Auschwitz by singing BY DAVID SAFFER Global Jewry has lost a renowned Chazanut singer and holocaust educator following the death of Cantor David Wisnia at The Brunswick at Attleboro, Langhorne last month (June 15). Cantor Wisnia, 94, of Levittown, spent his life singing during an extraordinary life. And it helped him survive Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. But prior to, and after, he brought joy to those lucky enough to experience his talents for decades. “David personified the survivors’ spirit of looking forward rather than wallowing in the past,” said World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder. “Over the years, he dedicated himself to creating not just a new life, but to perpetuating Jewish music and Jewish culture for future generations to come. Hearing him sing the words of El Maleh Rachamim for all those who perished one final time on the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz in front of the infamous death gate is a moment that I will never forget.” Born in Sochaczew, 40 miles from Warsaw, Poland in 1926, David attended Yavneh-Tarbut Hebrew School. His parents, Eliahu and Machla, moved the family to Warsaw. A child singing prodigy, having studied
with renowned Cantors Gershon Sirota and Moshe Koussevitsky, David performed in synagogues, opera houses and on Polish radio. “He was very proud of how he was trained and the style in which he sang, which blended Jewish tradition with a very operatic style,” grandson Avi Wisnia, an award-winning composer, singer and performer, told the Philadephia Inquirer. After Germany invaded Poland in 1939, his parents and younger brother were among over 56,000 Jews murdered in the Warsaw ghetto. An older brother, Moshe, disappeared and was never seen again. David, 13 at the time survived and then endured three years at Auschwitz. It was not long before fortuitously his singing voice would save his life when a Christian Pole demanded entertainment. Wisnia recalled to the Jewish Exponent in a 2015 interview, “I didn’t care what I was singing, I know German songs, French songs, Yiddish songs, if I had to continue doing what I was doing the first two weeks at Auschwitz, I would have never made it.” Nazi guards heard his melodic voice and wanted to hear more. “He would entertain them at their drunken parties, after their workday, where they committed their horrible acts,” Avi said. David composed two songs in
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Auschwitz, one in Polish, ‘Oswiecim’ (Auschwitz), another in Yiddish, ‘Dos Vaise Haizele’ (The Little White House in the Woods). Both are displayed at the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. Surviving Auschwitz, David was transferred to Dachau and during a death march he escaped into woods and liberation from the US 101st Airborne. He recalled in an interview, “One fine morning, I found a column of tanks. Believe me, if I ever prayed, I prayed, ‘Don’t let there be a swastika on there.’ Instead, I saw a star.” Joining with the 506th Parachute Infantry, David was known as “Little Davey”. Serving as an interpreter, he spoke Hebrew, Yiddish, German, Polish, French and Russian, and also engaged in combat as the war neared its end. David stayed in touch with the 101st, performing the National Anthem in Tampa, Florida, at a 2015 reunion. Immigrating to the United States in 1946. David built a new life, initially working as an encyclopedia salesman for the Wonderland of Knowledge company. Following his marriage to his late wife, Hope, they moved to Bucks County. Cantor Wisnia served various communities for the next 51 years. In retirement, he also spoke about the Shoah at schools with Holocaust education becoming increasingly important. But it took many years to share his story. “I threw away my whole past,” he recalled in 2015. “It’s the only way I figured I was going to be able to survive.” When asked about his Auschwitz tattooed numbers after arriving the New York, Cantor Wisnia made out it was a telephone number rather than explain the truth due to being traumatised. Though he had the infamous numbers
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removed, a “6” was visible on his forearm. Escaping the past was impossible and his astonishing death defying tale is now known. Cantor Wisnia’s memoir, One Voice, Two Lives: From Auschwitz Prisoner to 101st Airborne Trooper tells the story. “Auschwitz meant the end of life, the end of the world,” he once said, adding that “music was my life”. Calling on future generations to “do away with hatred”, Cantor Wisnia noted in an interview, “Hatred leads to death. There is a saying in the Torah, God tells Abraham “You shall be a Blessing” and that is my message, that each and every one of us should “be a blessing.” We should do good in this world, and be good to one another. Live a life with meaning and purpose, and leave this world a better place than when you entered it.” Cantor Wisnia attended the 70th and 75th commemoration anniversary events at Auschwitz accompanied by his family, and movingly sang El Maleh Rachamim. “It’s so hard to sum him up because he was such a big personality, such a large character,” commented Avi. “It made him such a joy to be around. It was like there was some kind of magic around him and it made people fall in love with him and, in turn, he loved everyone that he met. Most of all, though, when I think about his life, the thing that runs through it is music.” Cantor Wisnia is survived by sons Rabbi Eric Wisnia and Michael Wisnia, daughters Karen Wisnia and Jana Dickstein, and five grandchildren. The family have asked for donations to be sent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum. A public memorial will be held at a later date.
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After ruffing the heart return, declarer ducked a diamond to East’s nine. East could not see a trick in the minors for the defence, so he exited with a heart. After this exit was ruffed with dummy’s queen, declarer drew trumps and claimed ten tricks. He made five trumps in hand, a heart ruff in dummy, three diamonds and a club.
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Duty and care at Ezra Umarpeh receive forefront of AJEX appeal accessible vehicles
First wreath laying by Jewish veterans at the Cenotaph in 1921
Rabbi and Rebbetzin Goldstein with JCD’s Anthea Jackson and Charles Spungin
PHOTO: AJEX
AJEX is appealing to the community for support this weekend in a fundraising campaign to ensure the charity can continue to do their duty and pass on the baton of remembrance to future generations and support veterans and those serving today. The target for AJEX is to raise £150,000 in 36 hours with the help of Charity Extra (11th-12th July). All donations will be doubled through match funding. AJEX is dedicated to Jewish men and women who fought and continue to fight, for our freedom and security. AJEX plays an essential role to continue the legacy of Jewish servicemen and women and supports veterans and their families who depend on the charities help. From the start of the 20th century to today, over 150,000 Jews have served. The charity commits funds to relieving the suffering of the Jewish veteran community as well as running educational initiatives that reach out to thousands of school children every year. Now, more than ever, it is important to combat antisemitism and demonstrate the Jewish role in modern Britain. AJEX are proud to share this history. Mike Bluestone, national chairman, said,
AJEX National Chairman Mike Bluestone
PHOTO: AJEX
“AJEX was founded almost 100 years ago in response to ignorance and hatred. We have an obligation to pass down the story of the many Jewish people who served and gave their lives for us. Our duty at AJEX is to care and we are immensely proud of our work in welfare, education, fighting antisemitism and remembrance. People rely on our help and we are proud to be supporting them, educate others and do our duty. We can’t do all of this without the help from the community, so we hope many will join us this weekend in support.” The fundraising campaign, themed on “Our Duty is to Care”, illustrates the value of AJEX and how vital it is funds are raised. In addition to the fundraiser, AJEX will host an exclusive interview with Hugo Rifkind, columnist and leader writer for The Times and presenter on Times Radio. The talk will be broadcast live from the Charity Extra page on Monday (7.30pm). To donate: www.charityextra.com/AJEX
Two accessible vehicles have been donated to Ezra Umarpeh through Jewish Childs Day and the Rosemary White Foundation. For over 25 years, Ezra Umarpeh has been providing support services for patients and families across the community. They support stays in hospital and ease rehabilitation when patients return home. They also provide on loan, medical equipment and organise hospital transportation for appointments. Ezra Umarpeh has expanded services. They have centres in Stamford Hill and Golders Green. A legacy was gifted to Jewish Child’s Day through the Rosemary White Foundation in 2019. Trustees were instrumental in finding the most appropriate project to benefit hundreds of children. The outcome is two accessible vehicles, one is wheelchair accessible, a larger vehicle will enable transportation of equipment to and from households. The accessible vehicles have transformed day to day services especially during the pandemic. Ezra Umarpeh Finance Officer, Sarah Reitzer said, “This has had a tremendous impact on families of sick children. With
one phone call all their equipment needs are met, delivered and set up, hassle free and safely. The ripple effect that these two vehicles are having is sure to be immeasurable and long-lasting.” “Having unlimited access to Ezra Umarpeh’s brand new vehicle was a light in the dark tunnel of lockdown,” said Danny’s mother. “We were able to take Danny, who is vulnerable and isolating, further afield to open spaces without compromising his safety. Living in a small flat, this was literally a breath of fresh air whenever he needed it.” Another parent added, “When our child was discharged from hospital and needed an array of equipment, Ezra Umarpeh made those impossible days possible by delivering all we needed in their spanking new van. Their technician patiently showed us how to use all the equipment and was happy to do multiple deliveries until we were all set up.” Rebbetzin Sharon Goldstein, Rosemary White Foundation Trustee, commented, “With the gift to Ezra Umarpeh, as well as other charities, both Jewish and non-Jewish in the UK and in Israel, Rosemary White’s memory will truly be remembered as a blessing.”
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Vision care for homeless people reaches out nationally
A high proportion of homeless people struggle with poor vision, but volunteer optometrists are set to ease the problem when clinics re-open soon within the East London Crisis Centre, and at centres in Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Brighton and Exeter. “We support the dispossessed who may never have had an eye examination and who often do not realise just how poor their sight has become. Reading glasses are sometimes the answer but an above average number of patients are referred to hospital eye departments for serious conditions,” said optometrist Elaine Styles, Chair of the charity.
Since the charity was founded 18 years ago Vision Care for Homeless has helped thousands to regain their self respect. One of the aims, mirroring that of Crisis, is to help people to get back to work. “Many need help to be able to read a job application form before they can get started. Our patients are so grateful for what we do.” This small UK charity is looking for supporters – “Each clinic costs around £8,000 a year to run, and that is with our team of volunteers donating their time. We are keen to hear from any people or businesses which would be able to help us around the country,” added Elaine. www.visioncarecharity.org
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The 2021 National Final Modern Hebrew Spelling Bee Competition for primary schools winners have been announced. Elon Boyd from Akiva won the non-Ivrit speaking category, Nehorai Emuna from Nancy Reuben won the Ivrit speaking category. PaJeS, in partnership with Routes into Languages East, backed the event. Students consolidate their Ivrit by improving vocabulary, spelling, pronunciation and memory skills before going to secondary school. Participants practiced 120 words
using KS2 curriculum vocabulary before translating and spelling as many words as possible in one minute. Dalia Wittenberg, PaJeS primary Ivrit advisor, said, “Contestants and teachers have shown commitment, dedication and determination to prepare themselves for this special event, despite the challenges they were facing, due the pandemic.” Twenty-three contestants from Akiva, Alma, Eden, Ilford JPS, Morasha and Nancy Reuben primary schools participated in the competition.
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Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Primary School Key Stage 1 and Reception Sports day
Broughton Jewish Key Stage 1 and Reception Sports day
8 JULY 2021
Will brings Simcha to Jewish Care home
PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL.
Will Gordon reads his Barmitzvah with dad Steven and Papa Malcolm at Jewish Care’s Lady Sarah Cohen House
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Will Gordon’s grandparents, Malcolm and Dorothy Gordon, were able to hear their grandson read his Bar Mitzvah piece in the garden of Jewish Care’s Lady Sarah Cohen House at the end of June. The sun shone for the family in the beautiful garden at Lady Sarah Cohen House creating a magical moment, which was possible as restrictions had lifted. Malcolm, 86, recently moved to the home where his wife, Dorothy, who is living with Alzheimer’s, has lived for six years. Will read his sedra and haftorah for his Bar Mitzvah which will be in September, so that his Papa Malcolm and Nana Dorothy who are residents at the home could hear him. Will’s grandpa Ray was also there to him along with aunts and uncles and the service was led by Rabbi Baruch Levine of Brondesbury Park Synagogue, where the family are members, together with Rabbi Junik, Jewish Care’s spiritual and pastoral. “Being able to have the Bar Mitzvah has come at the right time for us, it’s lovely to all be together,” said Papa Malcolm. Rabbi Levine, who was officiating for the family, asked Malcolm to give advice to his grandson, to which Malcolm answered, “always be nice and gentle to people.” After the outdoor service, Will’s parents, Steve and Naomi Gordon, said, “We had the most wonderful morning celebrating Will’s barmitzvah surrounded by our family in the
09/04/2019 13:38:01
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grounds of Lady Sarah Cohen House. Will has made us very proud and after many months apart, it was a deeply moving and joyful ceremony. An occasion we will never forget and we are truly thankful to Jewish Care for making this happen.” Rabbi Junik, “After such a long difficult year it was a really moment of joy to have three generations come together and being able to celebrate Will’s Barmitzvah with the family Simcha was really uplifting for the grandparents, giving them a tremendous boost. We are very grateful to have this window of opportunity and it is a moment of light within the Jewish Care premises, giving us encouragement towards a brighter future for life returning to normal for our residents.” At the end of 2019, the Gordon family donated an ornate Chanukiah to The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre after restoring it from Liverpool Greenbank Drive Hebrew Congregation which had closed in 2008. Linda, Dorothy’s sister tracked down the Chanukiah and Steven organised for it to be restored before donating it to stand in the reception of The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre, in appreciation for the ongoing care shown to Dorothy at Lady Sarah Cohen House. The original donor of the Chanukiah, Jeannette Goodman, is also a resident at Kun Mor & George Kiss home at The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre.
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The King David Yavneh Girls School held its presentation ceremony. A welcome by Judith Seitler, Head of Yavneh, a Dvar Torah and vote of thanks by the Head Girls, a drama presentation, then the Yavneh Girls Rabbi Chaim Cohen addressed the girls. Graduation Certificates and awards made by Joshua Rowe, Chair of King David Governors, assisted by Rabbi Cohen.
Some of the Yavneh leavers
PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL.
COMMUNITY 25
Reb Dovid Schlesinger, Rosh Yeshivas Toras Chaim of Edgware affixing the Mezuzah, on Thursday 1st July, to the front door of the newly acquired dorms for his Yeshivah at 83 Warwick Road. The Bochurim also had their turns, putting up the many other Mezuzos.
Reb Dovid Schlesinger, Rosh Yeshivas Toras Chaim of Edgware affixing the Mezuzah
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High-level communal Uyghur conference Magen Avot Synagogue in Hendon is spearheading what the Jewish community can do about the plight of the Uyghur community on Sunday (5-8pm). Faith leaders, politicians and activists will share practical things to support the Uyghur community. Sir Iain Duncan Smith and Lisa Nandy MP will debate the issue. First-hand
testimony comes from Uyghur activist Rahima Mahmut whilst Kelley Eckels Currie, former US Representative at the UN Commission on the Status of Women and Bennett Freeman, former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights & Labour will also be participating on the panel. Rabbi Joel Kenigsberg of Magen Avot,
GIFT’s ‘Giving day’ in Broughton Jewish Primary School Year 6 pupils at Manchester’s Broughton Jewish Primary School were treated to a full day of ‘giving’ sessions by GIFT Manchester educators Sophie Woolfstein and Aliza Noe, joined by GIFT London’s Senior Educator Rabbi Avrohom Zeidman. The exciting and informative Supermarket Challenge competition was put together and run by Rabbi Zeidman and involved the pupils transported to a local supermarket, and in groups thoughtfully selecting & purchasing food items they felt would be suitable for a family on a budget. The groups were then judged on their purchases and the food was donated to the food bank run by GIFT Manchester. Rabbi Zeidman explained “ the pupils were really engaged in the activity and there was a real buzz in the classroom at the judging stage; they were excited to see how their items would be judged. The students were shocked at how much food items actually cost, but also learned that bargains help make your money stretch that little bit further. The session really helped them feel empathy for those struggling to feed their families.” The pupils also spent time carefully decorating & filling flower pots with soil & seeds for residents at Heathlands Village Nursing Home to brighten up the residents’ rooms. Each child wrote a beautiful, heartfelt
said, “Earlier this year, our community heard testimony from Rahima about the terrible atrocities being perpetrated against the Uyghur people in China. We could not remain indifferent. As Jews and as human beings we have a responsibility to speak out against injustice and to take what practical steps we can to end this suffering.” He added, “Magen Avot is honoured to
be spearheading such a high-profile event, bringing together speakers not just from the Jewish community, but leaders of other faiths, MPs and former UN diplomats as well. Together we hope we can make a difference and bring about effective change.” Conference details and online access: www.TheUS.tv/action
King David Primary School year 5 pupils held a Greek day with a few Greek games, like the Discus
Rebecca Bitan - Yr 6 Broughton Jewish Primary School with the beautifully decorated flower pot and personalized letter for Heathlands Village residents
personal note to the residents to accompany the flower pots. The chessed activity was accompanied by a class discussion on real happiness; our responsibility to give to others and the joy that giving brings both to the recipient but also to the giver. Deputy Centre Manager at Heathlands Village, Nick Burgess said “ the flower pots are so beautiful decorated; the residents will absolutely love them.” Pupil Ari Halpern explained ’As part of our Yr6 leavers trip week, we wrote cards, decorated pots and put the soil in them and got them ready to send to Heathlands. Each us wrote a nice message to the people there about how proud we are of how they had all coped so well during lockdown. We really felt that they all deserved this nice card and flower pot because it was such a long time in lockdown and must have been difficult for them. We had a great time doing this.’ To invite GIFT to run activities in your school, contact education@jgift.org
KD Primary School Greek day
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Jami to launch Children’s The Manchester Jewish Mental Health Service Community Centre Any parent whose child needs mental health services likely knows the pain of navigating statutory services, long waiting lists for public or private treatment, and the fear and anxiety that comes with becoming a carer of a person with mental illness. Today, Jami announces it is to launch a Children and Young Person’s (CYP) mental health service, in addition to their existing Jewish community adult mental health service. “Transforming the mental health of our community has long been Jami’s goal. We have made huge strides in improving the lives of adults living with mental illness, as well as those caring for them, but now is the time to deliver the equivalent class-leading mental health care for children and young people in the Jewish community as well”, said Adam Dawson, Chair of Jami’s Board of Trustees. Between the ages of 5 to 15, one in every nine children has a diagnosable mental illness, which rises to one in seven children of secondary school age (11-16 year olds). Half of all mental health problems are established by the age of 14, with three quarters established by 24 years of age1. Prompt access to appropriate support is crucial for children and young people experiencing
mental health difficulties to maximise their chances for a healthy and happy life. The challenge of improving young people’s mental health in our community will be met by expanding existing Jami services to deliver appropriate dedicated children’s services to secondary school age children. This will include mental health treatment, therapy, education, advocacy and carer and family support. Building on Jami’s established clinical framework for delivering adult mental health services, the new children and young person’s service will be developed with a robust clinical foundation, experienced clinical governance and a collaborative approach with other communal organisations delivering children’s services including Norwood, Camp Simcha and Noa Girls. Laurie Rackind, Jami Chief Executive said, “NHS children’s services are overwhelmed. We already deliver a class-leading adult community mental health service that we must now expand to meet the rising mental health demands of our children and young people. The pandemic has only added to the need for greater mental health support and by creating a dedicated service for children now, we are preparing a mentally healthier community in the future.”
Hasmonean Primary School appoints new head The Governors of Hasmonean Primary School are delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Hayley Gross as the new Headteacher. Mrs Gross, who has been the Headteacher at Sacks Morasha Jewish Primary School since 2008, will join Hasmonean Primary School in January 2022. She will take over from Dr Alan Shaw, who earlier this year announced his decision to retire this summer. Until Mrs Gross’s arrival, the school will be led on an interim basis by Mr Daniel Gastwirth, the current Deputy Headteacher. Mr Dan Sacker, Chair of Governors at Hasmonean Primary School, said: “After a very rigorous selection process, we are delighted to have recruited Mrs Gross, a Headteacher with huge experience and a fantastic track record of school improvement and success in all areas of the curriculum. I have no doubt that she will be an outstanding Headteacher and a real asset to our school. I am excited to start working with her.” Mrs Gross said: “Having built up and led Sacks Morasha for so long, I will always have a special place for it in my heart, so naturally moving on was always going to be a difficult decision. But I do so with a sense of great excitement for a new challenge and role. Hasmonean Primary is a school with a rich history and heritage, and I look forward to
Mrs Hayley Gross
continuing to build on this in the years to come.” Mr Mark Nicolaides, Chair of Governors at Sacks Morasha Jewish Primary School, said: “Mrs Gross’s love for our pupils, and her many skills and achievements while our headteacher, ensures that she will always have many friends at Sacks Morasha. We wish her every success at Hasmonean Primary School.”
The Manchester Jewish Community Centre pool
The Jewish community in Manchester has an asset that most other communities don’t have. The Jewish community Centre, formally the Cultural Centre houses within it a 16m swimming pool. It has served the community for over 25 years and is set for a renovation to enhance the swimming experience of its users. The building and swimming pool are a charity and offers subsidised swimming sessions to the whole community. The pool first opened in the 1990s with the famous John Hanna quickly becoming the lifeguard for the mens sessions. He was the face of the swimming pool and has lifeguarded and taught many people over the generations. The pool was often called ‘Johns Pool’. Unfortunately John no longer lifeguards at the Centre, due to a stroke and is a great loss to the swimmers. Now, overseen by Michal Black, the pool has gone from strength to strength in recent years. Being a charity, the pool offers subsidised swimming and offers a wide range of sessions including lane swimming for men and women, girls and boys free swim sessions, ladies aqua aerobics, and mother and baby session, which are currently sponsored by the Hershel Weiss Centre. The pool is also used regularly by local special needs school and has been particularly popular over the last couple of months for end of year school bookings. Swimming lessons take place daily, under the management of Mrs Basya Bamberger, from Making Waves. Over 400 children take lessons weekly, from beginners to advanced swimmers and lots more currently on a waiting list. We all know that our health is the most important thing to us and swimming offers a holistic approach to exercise. Swimming is beneficial for both mental and physical health. It is a full body workout and tones muscles and builds strength, helping to maintain a healthy body weight and a strong heart and lungs. It is great for general wellbeing and just 30 minutes of swimming
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three times a week alongside a balanced, healthy diet and lifestyle is one of the best ways to stay fit and healthy and maintain a positive mental outlook. Do it with friends, and it’s even more fun! Being in the water is also good for people with mobility issues as the warm water supports up to 90 per cent of the body’s weight. So if you sprained an ankle at Monday night football or have a long term injury or illness, swimming is a brilliant way to stay active. The Covid-19 pandemic meant that we had to spend a lot of the last year closed. Although, some sessions have restarted, social distancing limitations have prevented us from reopening the boys and girls free swim sessions. We hope that as government restrictions ease again we will be able to once again offer these much wanted sessions. The Centre has put on male and female lifeguarding courses (to gain the NPLQ qualification) for the community which ensure that they are taught by either male or female teachers respectively and in a ‘kosher environment’ which is not possible when taking the course at another pool. Once qualified, the lifeguards are often able to work at the centre which enables them to put on more sessions. The centre also trains up swimming teachers from the community. In the upcoming matched campaign on the 11th and 12th of July we hope to raise £80,000 to enable us to enhance the swimming experience of users of the pool by refurbishing the changing room, putting in a designated fully equipped disabled change space and paint the interior of the pool. By enhancing the swimming experience we aim to have more users of the pool, to greater benefit the community. To get involved please call Michal Black on 07915 948 738 or email manchesterjcc@ gmail.com To donate visit www.charidy.com/swimming
Jteen parent event
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OUR SUMMER'
Main speaker: Dr David Lieberman (internationally renowned relationship expert) Guest speaker: Mrs Ruthie Halberstadt (educator)
Save the date 11th of July 9pm-10pm
Dial in: 0208 080 6592 Meeting ID: 820 3753 5980 Passcode: 362081
register now: www.jteensupport.org/registration Jteen support is a completely confidential and anonymous text-based helpline aimed at supporting the emotional wellbeing of our community teens from the ages of 1120. Jteen support is made up of trained volunteer counsellors, qualified therapists, educators and mental health experts. .
Www.jteensupport.org
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ImpACT Teens in supermarket sweep for Food Bank Aid
Project ImpACT volunteers taking part in the ‘supermarket sweep’ for Food Bank Aid
Project ImpACT teens participated in the first ever, teen-led ‘Supermarket Sweep’ for food banks at Tesco supported by Food Bank Aid. While the teens didn’t quite “go wild in the aisles” they were very excited to finally be able to volunteer in-person with their friends after over a year of virtual volunteering from their homes. They spent over £1,000 from charitable donations, filling numerous shopping trolleys high with basic groceries, including lots
of fresh fruit and vegetables desperately needed by families that rely on food banks. They were also challenged to spend an additional £1 on items that would help a family in need and provide maximum nutrition. Items chosen by the ImpACT teens included tins of tuna, baked beans and cereal bars. The Tesco staff were delighted to support the initiative and reserved a checkout just for them. Other shoppers were also really supportive, with a number giving the teens
the cultural centre
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donations on the spot including a doctor who said he had been helped by a food bank when he arrived as an asylum seeker a few years ago. Naomi Russell, who set up the Hub food bank in response to the COVID pandemic, said: “donations have ‘fallen off the cliff’ as things return to normal. Unfortunately, people are forgetting about those who the pandemic has hit badly and who remain in dire straits. Your support is therefore appreciated more than ever at this time. We love that teens are participating and thinking about those less fortunate”. Lisa Zeital from Project ImpACT said “we were thrilled at how successful this event was and the way the teens really embraced this really meaningful challenge. We are looking forward to running more exciting hands-on volunteering opportunities with partner charities”. Teens who would like to join Project ImpACT impactful volunteering initiatives please email info@projectimpact.org.uk. If you would like to volunteer or donate some shopping to Food Bank Aid there are 40+ drop off points in north London email: info@foodbankaid.org.uk.
Jewish students disgust at Warwick University Jewish students have vented their disgust at the University of Warwick passing a motion to challenge the International Definition of Antisemitism. Over 200 members of the representative body of the University’s academic staff voted “overwhelmingly” to pass the motion last month. Members called on the university to create a working group to handle allegations of antisemitism and other forms of racism that might be made against staff and students. An amendment calling for the application of the Definition to be suspended in disciplinary matters was passed until findings from a working group are reported back at the end of the year. Professor Maureen Freely of the Warwick Writing Programme was thrilled the motion had passed. But a spokesperson for Warwick Jewish society expressed absolute disgust at the news. “This sends a clear message that they are not willing to listen to Jewish students and, frankly, hold us in contempt for simply trying to define prejudice against us,” they reportedly noted. The Jewish student body however welcomed the working party being established to make recommendations on the handling of allegations of racism including antisemitism.
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32 FEATURE
8 JULY 2021
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From the front line… If not now, WHEN?
BY JACQUELINE CURZON Mr Johnson has agreed to snap off our metaphorical handcuffs and gags, but gives zero guidance on dealing with compliance-driven individuals. That’s fine in principle I guess, but not when shops, museums, councils and schools may insist on declaring their premises as ‘mandatory mask zones.’ I was travelling on a bus recently and almost everyone was already masked and seated, on one seat of every two. One stop further on, the driver announced that those then standing should be seated and remain socially distanced, which was impossible as it might cause a stranger to sit close to someone unrelated. Johnson also asked pupils to be patient regarding ending the lockdowns. But just a jolly minute! These pupils, and us parents, have been more Practically Perfectly Patient than Mary Poppins, MD, was with her protégés. As primary schools are the sector of society least likely to go down with the corona-lurgy, it should be considered beyond ridiculous to impose any further restrictions or encourage reticence for children to return. Returning to roadmaps for a minute, Sajid Javid speculates we are heading into ‘uncharted territory’ once restrictions are lifted, believing we could see cases rise from 25,000 to 100,000 by the end of the summer. Ministers will decide next week whether we will be finally open for business on the 19th, and Prof. Neil Ferguson, epidemiologist at Imperial College, told the BBC Today programme that lifting of restrictions was a ‘slight gamble,’ but justified. Many would agree that Ferguson is well qualified in risk taking. On a related note - with more than £65 billion already spent on furlough subsidy, it’s perhaps a suitable junction in the lockdown roadmap to bring it all to an end. Monetary incentives gifted to the nation during covid have actually made it difficult for some people to let go of the safety net: many still want to WFH (work from home), and accept financial support via furlough. However the youth of today and tomorrow and the day after that, will be the ones having to pay for this extremely generous intervention, so the money train can’t run indefinitely. The Treasury has already hinted that a pensions tax raid is being considered to help recoup some of this monumental expenditure. SAGE scientists caution further stronger restrictions may be needed later in the year, to deal with an expected rise in cases. They want baseline measures of masks, distancing and working from home to remain. If we continue to do that once the key turns in the lock, how exactly will this differ from our current position? Citing data or comparisons with countries with near-zero figures can be further misleading, as countries such as New Zealand are a) geographically very remote, b) minimally populated and c) closed to tourists. How easy would it be at home if we
Jacqueline Curzon PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY
could tick all three boxes? Scotland has more chance of being crowned covid negative, given its comparatively small population, and abundance of open spaces. Anyway, I digress. Scotland is unfortunately displaying some of the worst case numbers across the UK, whilst the First Minister has ruffled feathers by banning folks from northern England from crossing the border. It’s plainly taking the bikkie, when Scotland has its own cities and towns of equal - and greater - concern. On a positive note though, I read that a new covid secure version of Falstaff was staged in the production studio of Scottish Opera, Glasgow. The orchestra played inside with the roller doors open, the conductor was visible, the chorus were upstairs and the audience were happily viewing it from the car park. The internationally renowned David McVicar was in charge, and the set featured a stage upon a stage, which was visually very impressive. The line up was equally impressive, with Elizabeth Llewelyn, Alastair Miles and Jamie MacDougall. Car parks as venues are of course nothing new in times such as these, we also use them for a myriad of activities, as well as multitasking our driveways, gardens and parks. The Queen has awarded the George Cross to the National Health Service for ‘seven decades of public service,’ presumably including the recent battling of Covid. Not sure 1.3 million NHS workers would be happy to 'share' the medal, rather than have something tangible - like their previously petitioned pay rise. The George Cross is granted in recognition of “acts of the greatest heroism or of the most courage in circumstances of extreme danger.” I’m not sure how such a shared award works. Thoughts, anyone? Understandably, many medics slammed the 'poorly judged' decision to award it, instead demanding the government tackle the elephant in the room - salaries. The last time a communal award like this was made, was back in 1999, when the RUC was replaced after nearly 80 years of police service in Northern Ireland. The NHS is not a remotely similar organisation nor likely to be disbanded, even if many might argue the cost of sustaining it is now impossible
to justify. In any case there is no explicit mention of covid in the Queen’s handwritten letter, so it's not just been about public service over the past year. The Home Secretary, Priti Patel, is planning to block visas from countries which she believes are not taking back rejected asylum seekers or offenders. The clause in the Nationality and Borders Bill also allows for imposition of additional financial requirements for visa applications, which in plain English means an increase in fees. This is something the US have introduced into legislation, to withdraw visa routes for undocumented migrants. The proposed changes have wide reaching implications for the asylum system, but critically will include life sentences for people-traffickers, a tariff of up to five years - instead of six months - for those who breach deportation orders and ‘rigorous age assessments’ to stop adults pretending to be children. A director at Amnesty International branded the bill ‘legislative vandalism’ and many agencies including Refugee Council, Freedom from Torture and Together with Refugees, have joined to call for a fairer approach to asylum in the UK. For years I’ve been encouraged to watch a series called Breaking Bad, but have always resisted because I thought (incorrectly) it was about life in prison. It isn’t, but the principal character is a fascinating individual, a chemistry teacher cum cancer patient who resorts to unorthodox means to provide for his family. He refuses to succumb to his lung cancer, and in the most gritty and determined way, carves out financial security for his pregnant wife and disabled teenage son. Now, much of this resonated with me, because we all know D-Day will come and one wants to feel prepared, like you have got your business arrangements in hand. Actually, I was more tickled with the humour, which was both very funny and offbeat. I laughed and laughed. Hands up those who like Diana’s memorial statue? What, you didn’t like it either? To me, it had all the class of a drab prop from a soviet era horror movie, hijacked from a lowly garden centre, rather than being a statue crafted in remembrance of a beautiful lady who was loved by all. At least Diana’s two sons seemed to unite over the installation, and of course their relationship is much more important. A university student has designed a device for first responders which can be used to rapidly stop massive blood loss. Joseph Bentley (21), a final year design and technology student at Loughborough University, has developed a prototype [React]which uses pressure at the wound area to prevent bleeding. He said police and paramedics normally use a bleed control kit that is pressed into the wound with lots of force. The gauze fills up the space inside the wound providing pressure to control the bleeding, but this is not viable in cavity wounds such as the
abdomen as they often run out of gauze trying to fill up the space. He says that REACT does this quicker and simpler than a wound pack. Well done Joseph. Now if anything is guaranteed to get French wine producers in a tizz or a fizz, it is the suggestion that champagne can be made anywhere outside the Champagne region in France. The Champagne committee’s website clearly states: “Champagne only comes from Champagne.” But in a provocative move Vladimir Putin signed legislation requiring all non-Russian producers to mark their products in Russia as “sparkling wine” on the back of every bottle, this including some of the world’s most famous and expensive bubbly. Under this new law, only locally made шампанское (Shampanskoye) is worthy of the name, and French appellations are not even recognised. Vasily Oblomov, a Russian musician (comedian?) suggested a law requiring that “Mercedes” be defined as cars only made in Russia. A glass of champagne français now to Rachel Armstrong (20), who has completed her 3 year course at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow. It is very rare for academic & vocational places to go to overseas students - on several counts; firstly, students have to pick up the language, and believe me, even after mastering the cyrillic it’s not that simple; secondly, the barre is set so high (sorry, couldn’t resist that one) and the competition to get in is ferocious. With many attendant sacrifices along the way, dancers have to LiveForIt. Congratulations also go to chess prodigy Abhimanyu Mishra (12) from New Jersey, USA, who has broken a long-standing record to become the youngest Grandmaster in history. The boy, already in a race against time before he became too old, was hampered by tournaments around the world being cancelled because of Covid. He and his family had to relocate to Hungary for several months to find events with the strength of opposition needed to qualify, and needed three grandmaster ‘norms,’ which he did. The youngster, a pupil of the 13th world chess champion Gary Kasparov, had already achieved the other criteria of crossing the 2500 Elo rating barrier. He has been breaking chess records since the age of seven, when he became the US youngest Expert. Mishra became the National Master at 9, and then at 10 years he became the youngest ever International Master. For the chess community the Grandmaster title - the highest accolade - is akin to the holy grail. Speaking Russian and playing Chess: Two skills I’d like to master before I retire, {well I’d settle for basic skills +}, and if I’m lucky I might play chess in Russia. Да! Love Jacqueline x
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34 FEATURE
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8 JULY 2021
Expert Diet Advice Heather Daniels BY MICAELA BLITZ For registered dietitian, Heather Daniels, finding ways to reduce the risk of diabetes is central to the work she does, as well as general weight management. With more than 4.9 million people in the UK currently diagnosed with diabetes and this number is set to rise significantly over the next decade, her private practice, ‘Expert Diet Advice’, based in Edgware, helps with diabetes and weight management through changing patients’ eating habits and introducing additional physical activity. Heather works with NHS patients, alongside her private practice and first became interested in nutrition and diet from a young age. She has a passion for food and healthy eating and recalls how she made the decision to study to be a registered dietitian, “I remember looking at my UCAS book and saw the nutrition course which was certainly an area I had previously wanted to pursue, so I applied for the course and the rest is history.” Heather completed her Nutrition and Dietetics degree at Kings College London and worked for the NHS in Essex creating a successful weight management programme which helped hundreds of patients struggling with their weight. She subsequently moved to working within the NHS in Barnet where, as a community dietitian she was responsible for running a redesigning their diabetes education programme, which is an area of dietetics in which Heather specialises. For new clients seeking help with their weight or diabetes management through her practice, Heather begins with an initial one-to-one consultation where she assesses current diet and eating habits, as well taking measurements and explaining any recent blood tests available. She also establishes the objectives of the client and their hopes and goals in terms of their weight management and health. Due to the current pandemic, whilst face-to-face consultations are still possible, many consultations are taking place virtually, either via phone or video call, but Heather feels that working this way should not be a barrier to starting a new, healthier lifestyle. She encourages anyone interested in making changes to get in touch with her and is able to work virtually with clients who may be based further afield. After the initial consultation, Heather
produces a personalised written report based upon clients’ needs. The report provides a nutritional assessment with tailored suggestions and recommendations. Once the client starts on the plan, Heather ensures regular sessions are logged to track, progress and adapt the plan where required. As well as individual consultations, Heather also offers group sessions where causes and prevention of Type 2 Diabetes are discussed along with planning healthier diets for weight management. Whether working with private clients or through the NHS, Heather’s approach to diabetes or weight management is the same. She believes it is critical to change people’s attitudes long-term towards the food that they eat, rather than advocate a strict unsustainable diet plan. By introducing small, achievable changes such as encouraging clients to reduce the number of biscuits consumed or increase their physical activity, Heather recognises this as more sustainable, and ultimately means her patients will more likely to stick to the plan. “People often come to me having tried and failed with lots of other diets usually because they are too extreme or regimented to keep to over a long period of time. I think that the first step to successful weight management is by changing your mindset and being realistic.” Heather recognises that food also has many cultural associations, particularly in the Jewish community where it is a key part of many social and family occasions, and this may be where making the right food choices can be even more difficult. “There are many temptations when it comes to food, whether it’s having a piece of cake at kiddush or an additional piece of challah on Friday night, so I think it is important that people are able to be healthy without being miserable and learn to make the right choices rather than feeling that they can’t eat anything. It’s all about moderation.” Heather has learnt through her work that when it comes to making changes, it is important that the person makes the decision themselves. Often well-meaning family members, friends or partners might feel that they are being encouraging by suggesting ways to manage weight, but the reality is that changing eating habits
can only work when someone decides it is the right time for them. “I saw this first-hand with a personal friend. Others were concerned about their weight and general health so asked me to speak to them about it however it was only when they were ready and they approached me for help themselves that we were able to make significant progress and they were able to commit to it. That individual went on to lose 2.5 stone and maintain it, which is amazing.” For anyone wishing to improve their diet or needing assistance with diabetes management, Heather suggests not only about thinking what you eat, but also the quantity you eat. “Eating healthy food is obviously good for you, but if you are unable to control your portion size, that can also be an issue and may reverse the good work that you have already achieved!” To find out more or to make the first step to changing your diet, go to www.expertdietadvice.com
Heather Daniels
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36 COOKERY
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Herb Pita Bread Sticks This is a great bread fix addition whether it is to use as a dip for canapés, part of a mezze starter or enjoy with soup. Quick and easy to make, they are ideal tasty sticks for dipping and most attractive on the dining room table. Pita bread is a staple bread on the Middle Eastern menu and this variation can also be enjoyed with Israeli salad, humous and tahini. ~ the new modern Jewish cuisine! Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Serves: 6
Another delicious recipe from Denise Phillips For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com
Ingredients 6 slices of pita bread – cut into strips 2 cm thick 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons dried herbs, za’atar or garlic herb mix Salt and freshly ground black pepper Method - For the Base 1) Pre-heat the oven to 200 C/ 400 F/ Gas mark 6. 2) Place the pita sticks on a baking tray. 3) Drizzle over the oil and coating the sticks evenly. 4) Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. 5) Bake for 10 minutes or until golden. Serve immediately or when required. Can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in a sealed bag or freeze. To serve the stylish way: Place in a wine glass
Chips for Dips!
BY DENISE PHILLIPS We can now entertain but a showstopping spread does not have to mean hours of cooking in the kitchen. A delicious display of dips and chips has become the trend served as starters or as part of a casual entertaining dining experience. Your dips may be home-made or shop bought. Popular choices include fish dips such as smoked salmon or tuna pate. Middle Eastern options such as hummus, Baba Ganoush and dairy-based dips made using cream cheese, sour cream or yoghurt with added herbs, garlic, onion, chilli and other interesting flavourings. These are all easy to buy or make in minutes – refrigerate and serve in glass dishes for best effect. That’s the dips … now for the ‘chips’! Baked choices include breadsticks, bagel chips, pretzels, tortilla bites, crackers, melba toasts, pita bread (fresh or toasted) and cheese sticks. Arrange these in a basket lined with a napkin to match your colour scheme. Choose the freshest vegetables available to dip. For maximum crunch and
plumpness immerse your crudites in iced water and they will become firmer and crispier. Take care when preparing to keep sizes regular and the pieces attractive. Choose baby carrots and slice vertically. Cut cucumbers into circles after peeling alternate strips of the skin. Leave cherry tomatoes on their vine in small bunches. Just about all salad and vegetables will dip. Some will need to be blanched or lightly cooked – most are best raw. A non-exhaustive list to select from includes broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, button mushrooms, asparagus, artichokes, hearts of palm, green beans, baby corns, radishes, peppers, and lettuce hearts. Your selection of ‘chips’ can also include pickles cut into sticks and veggie crisps made from beetroot, parsnip, carrot and sweet potato. Use different colours and textures and arrange well on attractive platters as people eat with their eyes as well as their mouths! Remember to provide little touches to help your guests like toothpicks, disposable cocktail forks, teaspoons, and napkins. And don’t forget a bowl for any waste.
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40 JUDAISM
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ASK THE RABBI
Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com MASKS ON OR OFF? A COVID REALITY CHECK
Dear Rabbi With the government’s new proposals to abolish masks and social distancing, I wonder what your view is on the matter especially in synagogues. Do we blindly follow what the government says or do we still practise safety first, in keeping with the Jewish principle of the preserving Jewish life? Gitta Dear Gitta If you trusted the government up until this point to maintain all the necessary precautions, why would you consider their current analysis to be flawed and following them to be blind? I have read so many articles in the past few days about the various concerns, fears, etc. both physical and psychological. We have gotten ourselves locked into a mind-set which we are afraid to release ourselves from. I read one Rabbi’s posting on social media where he decries the government stance because some people, notwithstanding the vaccine, might get sick and then have to deal with long covid after. First of all, the science does not support the fact that those with the vaccine will have to endure long covid. It does however support the fact that while a minority can still get covid, they will not require hospitalisation let alone anything worse. Yes, covid is nasty, and having spoken to post vaccinated people who caught it, it is very far from pleasant. But let’s consider the flipside. You will remember how
the government sanctioned the opening of places of worship because of the vital service it provides and the benefits it offers for people’s spiritual and mental wellbeing. Well, the fact of the matter is, that so long as masks are in place, a large proportion of people will not come to Synagogue – especially the younger element. In a United Synagogue survey, the primary reason an overwhelming majority are not coming back into Synagogue is because of the masks. So, the restrictions, however necessary, have their own negative impact. To be clear, notwithstanding government guidelines, synagogues in Golders Green and Stamford Hill have not been using masks or social distancing for some time. I’m not justifying it. In fact I have previously condemned it. I am pointing out though that they have developed herd immunity at this stage. I suspect the United Synagogue will leave it up to individual synagogue discretion and if so, I would hope that synagogues will then leave it up to member discretion. Some will come in with masks and they should be respected. They may even choose to sit more distant and that should be accommodated as well. Others will want to come in without masks and sit together (finally have those mid-prayer chats) and that should be fine as well (well, not the chats midprayer). Of course if masks are abolished then some might stop coming and others will delay their coming back. I, for one, believe that a very small minority will choose to leave against a larger majority who will come
Pirkei Avot ַה ְמ־,ַר ִּבי ֶאלְ ָעזָ ר ַה ּמוֹ ָד ִעי אוֹ ֵמר וְ ַה ְמבַ ֶ ּזה ֶאת,ַח ֵּלל ֶאת ַה ָּק ָד ׁ ִשים וְ ַה ַּמלְ ִּבין ּ ְפנֵ י ֲחבֵ רוֹ בָ ַר־,ַה ּמוֹ ֲעדוֹ ת וְ ַה ֵּמ ֵפר ְּב ִריתוֹ ׁ ֶשל ַאבְ ָר ָהם,ִּבים וְ ַה ְמגַ ֶּלה ָפנִ ים,ָאבִ ינ ּו ָעלָ יו ַה ּׁ ָשלוֹ ם ַאף ַעל ּ ִפי,ַּב ּתוֹ ָרה ׁ ֶשלּ ֹא כַ ֲהלָ כָ ה ,ׁ ֶש ֵ ּי ׁש ְּביָ דוֹ תוֹ ָרה ו ַּמ ֲעשִׂ ים טוֹ בִ ים :ֵאין לוֹ ֵחלֶ ק לָ עוֹ לָ ם ַה ָּבא
back. As for those staying away, well they’re doing that anyway. As another point, they’ve moved past all this in the United States and in Israel. I know we like to procrastinate in the UK, but let’s not do that at the expense of our communities. Lest one accuses me of being callous and indifferent, let me remind readers that even as synagogues were allowed to be opened during the last lockdown, we kept our synagogue closed for a while longer. I used this column to also rage against those that were flaunting government guidelines. I was, personally, on the frontline of covid, seeing first hand much of the devastation. I stood at more than thirty funerals and on the doorsteps of near ninety different bereaved families. So let no one preach to me about the dangers of covid. BUT – most of us have been vaccinated. We trusted the government to lockdown, to wear masks, to stay out of synagogues, to go back into synagogues, to take the vaccines etc. etc. We don’t get to now just choose at whim to decide they can no longer be trusted. It’s time to get out of the herd mentality and into the herd immunity. I appreciate the sentiments of some rabbis and other professionals, but in repeating the wonderfully coined catchphrase: “Facts don’t care about your feelings.” See you in Synagogue!
ping by there recently, I struck up a conversation with one of the bell-ringers (campanologist is the correct term, I believe) who was out for a smoke! She told me that they were always keen to bring in new trainees, although the work was voluntary. The carillons do sound beautiful. I told her that I “batted for the opposition” so to speak, but that I would ask a Rabbi. I’m too embarrassed to ask mine, so your thoughts please? Michael
Dear Michael Don’t you think the fact that you’re too embarrassed to ask your own Rabbi, is indeed the answer to your own question? You have spare time on your hands? Go volunteer in your shul or local Jewish charity. Besides, getting involved in an environment that is distinctly not Jewish, let alone facilitating another religion’s ritual, runs its own implicit risks. Today you’re pulling their bell. Tomorrow they’re pulling your chain.
FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS
Dear Rabbi I live near a church that weekly rings its bells. Both on Sundays and “practice” mid-week. Stop-
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For Refuah Shalema for Mordechai Ben Chaya Sara
Rabbi Elazar of Modiin said: one who profanes sacred things, and one who despises the festivals, and one who causes his fellow’s face to blush in public, and one who annuls the covenant of our father Abraham, may he rest in peace, and he who is contemptuous towards the Torah, even though he has to his credit [knowledge of the] Torah and good deeds, he has not a share in the world to come.
This weeks Mishnah is quite hard hitting. Many people treat Chol Hamoed completely like a normal weekday. However according to this Mishnah, one who mistreats these precious days, is seriously admonished. As the Maharal of Prague says, some people are not convinced that you can come close to Hashem through basic earthly desires such as eating and drinking. Therefore they treat the festival’s
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Perek 3: Mishna 12 with disdain, disregarding the spiritual potential that lies in the midst of mundane acts. If mundane things like food and drink, or working for a living are done leshem shamayim, then it infused tremendous spirituality into the act and is as much a mitzvah as putting on tefillin or lighting the Shabbat candles. May we all merit to see the beautiful spiritual potential that awaits each and every day, Amen.
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Torah from Israel
8 JULY 2021
Can Modern Jews “Grieve”? BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN In a well-documented tale, Napolean once observed French Jews sitting on the floor of a synagogue, mourning their lost Temple. He was amazed at this historical consciousness which stretched back across thousands of years, despite the lack of a national homeland. Much has changed in the past two hundred years, and I wonder how Napolean would react if he entered a modern synagogue. I am not sure if he would be too impressed. Of course, we have absolutely no interest in impressing Napolean, but we do have every interest in fostering authentic mourning. So many changes in our modern world make it difficult for us to deeply mourn a world we never experienced, and a Temple we never witnessed. Tisha b’av must be continually updated, else it becomes detached from our overall reality. We may be able to take a “day off” and fervently mourn for the lost Mikdash, but, a day later, we calmly and casually return to our routine as if nothing has changed. How can we mourn our lost city in an “integrated” or “consistent” fashion so that Tisha b’av mourning is fused to the rest of our religious experience? Why is Tisha b’av so difficult in the modern era and what can we do about it?
TWO TYPES OF MOURNING
In life, we experience two very different modes of mourning. De-personalized mourning occurs when commiserate with the suffering of others. Emotionally sensitive people sympathize with the suffering of other people even when personally unaffected. At a minimum, Tisha b’av demands this level of mourning. We never lived through the tragedy of a destroyed Yerushalayim, but we can identify with the sorrow of those who watched as their entire world collapsed. Likewise, we are centuries removed from the Crusades, and the Spanish Inquisition but we can and should imagine those nightmares. Most of us did not walk in Auschwitz, but we can relive the horror and mourn for our people’s collective tragedy. This first type of mourning isn’t personal, even though it may be genuine and intense. A deeper form of mourning, or ‘personal’ mourning emerges from a profound sense of loss. In life, we all suffer loss, and when we do, we grieve deeply. Real heartache on Tisha b’av can only stem from this sense of personal loss. But this just makes the Tisha b’av challenge even more exasperating: how can we sense loss after so many centuries? What have we lost? If we can’t answer that question, our sobbing on Tisha b’av will never resemble personal mourning.
ONLOOKERS OR RENOVATORS
A lot depends on how we view ourselves in the larger sweep of Jewish history. As onlookers or mere ‘descendants’ we haven’t lost much; we never had a Temple, and never lived in the promised land under G-d’s shadow. We can dream of redemption and when those dreams are dashed, we are saddened. However, we haven’t experienced ‘loss’ and are not yet capable of grieving. However, we are not just descendants or mere onlookers. We are not even victims. We are empowered to rebuild history and to repair past failures? We are expected to renovate the past and atone for the breakdowns of previous generations. When we fail to restore history, we have abdicated that capacity- we have let historical repair slip through our fingers. That is a form of “personal loss” and can lead to personal mourning. If we view ourselves as authors of history, we become more invested in the process. When that process fails to advance, we have lost our own potential. Lost potential can and should cause grief and grieving. The Talmud (Yerushalmi Yoma 1;1) laments: “any generation which does not rebuild the temple has, in essence destroyed it”. This gemara historically empowers us as renovators of history. Tisha b’av becomes our failure and we shed our own tears of grief.
WHY DON’T WE FEEL LIKE “RENOVATORS”
Unfortunately, for many reasons, we don’t always view ourselves as potential redeemers of history. What has caused us to feel more like bystanders or victims and less like rebuilders? How can we better sense our historical potential year-round? Modernity has detached us from past generations, as we live in a condition of historical discontinuity. The world has changed so dramatically, and modern Man views his contemporary situation as a complete “break” with previous generations. Technology has spiraled so quickly and has overhauled almost every sector of human experience. The modern world of science, travel, finance, communication, culture, economy and capitalism has relandscaped our planet. Our world is unrecognizable to our ancestors. At no time in history has this shift been more dramatic and never has humanity felt more severed from the past. For Jews, this historical severance is even more pronounced- for two reasons. The Holocaust violently disrupted Jewish continuity, causing a huge rupture in family life and an interruption in the transmission of traditions. Post-Holocaust children were raised by “depleted”
The world has changed so dramatically, and modern Man views his contemporary situation as a complete “break” with previous generations. families and without the compelling sense of tradition which had steadied Jewish experience for centuries. Our past became less palpable because we were forcefully amputated from it. Secondly the emergence of the State of Israel has been so overwhelming that, for many, the ‘past’ has receded into a blur. For some, Jewish history began in 1948 and everything beforehand was merely a dark prelude. The modern world has created a sense of disconnectedness with the past. For Jews, this disconnectedness has been exacerbated by the apocalyptic events of the past century. Additionally, it is difficult to mend history unless you feel empowered to repair the sins of the past. The prevailing concept of ‘yeridat hadorot’ asserts that study of Torah and general religious levels each deteriorate with the passing of generations. Regrettably, this concept is often exaggerated, and we begin to view ourselves as helpless and hapless compared to the past. When taken to an extreme, this enfeebling myth perpetuates
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our own sense of historical inadequacy. How can we hope to repair the past crimes of Jewish history and redress their breakdowns if we are so inferior to the past generations? How can we be held accountable if we are powerless? If the spiritual giants of previous generations “fell” certainly we can’t rise. Midgets can’t renovate. To truly grieve on Tisha b’av we must ‘own’ the historical process. We must live with historical connectedness, and we must not exaggerate our own helplessness. Much is expected of us and if we fail, we squander great opportunity. At that point we don’t only cry for “them” but we cry for “ourselves”. xThat is always a deeper sorrow. Rabbi Moshe Taragin is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.
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Weekly Dvar Torah F R O M E R E TZ Y I S R A E L
What Connects Matot and Masei? BY RABBI BEREL WEIN The combination of these two sections of the Torah constitutes the question, raised by all the commentators over the ages, as to whether there really is a connection between these two Parshiot or is it just a matter of calendar convenience that unites them in one Torah reading on this coming Shabbat. I’ve always believed that there are no random occurrences or events in the Torah and the other holy writings. Therefore, there must be a connecting bond, a common denominator, that unites these two apparently disparate and different sections of the Torah. I feel that the relationship between the Jewish people and the Land of Israel is the connecting link between Matot and Masei. In Parashat Matot, we are told of the request of the tribes of Reuven and Gad to settle themselves, their families, their flocks, their wealth and their talents outside the strict borders of the Land of Israel.
They point out to Moshe all the advantages that they would enjoy if he allowed them to take their share in the Land of Israel east of the Jordan River. Moshe resists their plan, and sharply criticizes them for advancing it publicly. However, he is powerless to change their minds and their demands. He reaches an agreement with them. They will participate in the conquest of the Land of Israel and not forsake their brothers in the struggle to conquer the Land for all the tribes of Israel. However, it is obvious that even this result was a disappointment – to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River. Advancing in history, we see that centuries later, the tribes of Reuven and Gad were the earliest ones
Judaism is not a religion of convenience. Its values are demanding, insistent and unwavering and require self-sacrifice.
Matot Masei
4TH ALIYA (REVI’I) – 32:20-33:49.
Moshe accepts their request and instructs Elazar and the tribal heads to allow them to keep the land they requested if they do battle as promised. Some of the tribe of Menashe are also apportioned land east of the Jordan.
Sidra Summary
MATOT- 1ST ALIYA (KOHEN) – BEMIDBAR 30:2-31:12.
Moshe speaks to the heads of the tribes, telling them to relate the laws of vows and oaths to the Children of Israel. Contravening an oath or vow constitutes a Biblical prohibition. The sidra details who may revoke a vow on behalf of others in his care, but only on the day that he first hears about the vow. A husband may also revoke his wife’s vow in similar circumstances. G-d tells Moshe to wage war against the Midianites before his death. Moshe conscripts 1000 men from each tribe. They go into battle and kill all the Midianite males, as well as Bilam. They take captive the women, the young children, their cattle and material possessions.
2ND ALIYA (LEVI) – 31:13-54.
Moshe rebukes the officers for not killing
who were forced into exile, losing their land and independence. In Parashat Masei, we have the entire list of all the stations that the Jewish people encountered during their sojourn in the desert of Sinai. Rashi is quick to point out that every one of these places held memories for the Jewish people. They were not just simply names of places but, rather, descriptions of past events; each place involved a challenge and a test. Judaism is not a religion of convenience. Its values are demanding, insistent and unwavering and require self-sacrifice. It was convenience that led the tribes of Reuven and Gad to prefer the pasture lands of Transjordan over the Land of
the women, who had been the instigators of the immorality and idol worship that had led to the national catastrophe (see 25:1-9); he instructs them to now kill many of the women. Moshe tells those who have killed how to purify themselves from their state of tumah (ritual impurity). Upon G-d’s instruction, Moshe and Elazar count up the spoils and divide them in half, between those who fought in the war and the rest of the nation. A small percentage of each of these spoils is given as a tribute, one to Elazar and another to the Levi’im. The military leaders approach Moshe to donate the jewellery that they had plundered, as an offering to G-d.
3RD ALIYA (SHLISHI) – 32:1-19.
The tribes of Gad and Reuven ask to be given land on the east bank of the Jordan River, instead of crossing into the Land of Cana’an. Moshe rebukes them for their apparent cowardice, which seems to repeat the error of the spies 39 years previously. The two tribes clarify that whilst the women and children would settle on the east bank, the men would fight with the rest of the nation to conquer the Land and would not return to their families until the end of the war.
Point to Consider: why is some of the tribe of Menashe now mentioned, having not been cited in the negotiations with Moshe? (32:33) Parashat Masei begins by recalling the 42 journeys that the Israelites made from leaving Egypt until the present time, when they are about to cross into the Land of Cana’an.
5TH ALIYA (CHAMISHI) – 33:50-34:15.
G-d speaks to Moshe in the plains of Moab, telling him to relate to the nation that after entering the Land, they must destroy the idols of the Canaanites and make sure to drive them out the Land. G-d tells Moshe the boundaries of the Land that the tribes will inherit.
6TH ALIYA (SHISHI) – 34:16-35:8.
G-d announces the names of the leaders of each tribe, who will take charge of apportioning land to his tribe’s members. 42 cities are designated specifically for Levi’im to live in, surrounded by a designated amount of open space. These cities are also to provide refuge for a person who has killed accidentally and is fleeing from the relatives of the deceased.
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Israel itself. In our time, many Jews, if not the majority, have again chosen to live outside the confines of the Land of Israel. It is certainly not my role to criticize them for this choice, but I would merely make the observation that for almost all these Jews, it is a matter of convenience. Remembering fondly all the stations that we have experienced over our long exile trip through the world may create within us a feeling of nostalgia, but it is only because we do not directly face the lessons of exile that we have had to endure much suffering and hardships. Again, there may be many Jews who have good reasons to live outside of the Land of Israel but that doesn’t change the historical fact that only in the Land of Israel do the Jewish people have a future, and only there will they be able to truly fulfill the mission set forth for them at Mount Sinai. Rabbi Berel Wein is Senior Rabbi of Beit Knesset HaNassi in Jerusalem and Director of the Destiny Foundation.
7TH ALIYA (SHEVI’I) – 35:9-36:13.
In addition, six cities are designated as special ‘cities of refuge’, to which the accidental killer can flee. Instructions are given about what constitutes ‘accidental’ and how the community must endeavour to protect the accidental killer from those who are pursuing him. Men from the tribe of Menashe approach Moshe, concerned that the land given to the five daughters of Tzelofchad, a descendant of Menashe (see parashat Pinchas 27:1-8) would be lost from the tribe if they marry men from other tribes. Moshe responds that they should only marry men from the tribe of Menashe; this they do. This is the closing part of the book of Bemidbar. We stand for the final verse and then recite: “chazak, chazak ve’nitchazek”, a phrase asking for continued strength to study the Torah.
MAFTIR (ROSH CHODESH)
There is a special Maftir for Shabbat Rosh Chodesh, from Bemidbar ch. 28 (in last week’s parasha) which describes the additional offerings brought in the Temple on Shabbat Rosh Chodesh.
HAFTARAH
This haftarah, taken from Yirmiyahu (Jeremiah) is the second of the three ‘haftarot of affliction’ read in the build up to Tisha B’Av. G-d rebukes Israel for turning away from Him and towards idols, forsaking the opportunity He gave them when He bought them into the fruitful Land.
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Parshas Matot Masei: The Torah’s Travelogue BY GAVRIEL COHN At times one wonders why the Torah, our divinely-transmitted document, goes into such historical and geographical detail. What is the relevance of the affairs of early civilisations, for example? Why chart the genealogies of ancient clans so meticulously? The Talmud relates that the wicked Biblical king Menashe convened feasts for the sole purpose of mocking such seemingly redundant sections of Scripture (Sanhedrin, 99b). One of the most noticeable of such sections fills a large part of this week’s portion. Parshat Masei opens with an exhaustive list of the stations that the Jewish People stayed at during their decades of wandering in the desert, expending almost fifty verses recording some supposedly unimportant details: “These are the journeys of the children of Israel who left the land of Egypt in their legions, under the charge of Moshe and Aaron. Moshe recorded their starting points for their journeys according to the word of the Lord, and these were their journeys with their starting point… The children of Israel journeyed from
Rameses and camped in Sukkot. They journeyed from Sukkot and camped in Etam, at the edge of the desert. They journeyed from Etam and camped in Pi Hachirot, which faces Baal Tzephon; and they camped in front of Migdol. They journeyed from Penei Hachirot and crossed in the midst of the sea to the desert. They walked for three days in the desert of Etam and camped in Marah…” Why recount this travelogue in such immense detail? The great commentators explain that the purpose of Sefer Bamidbar is to tell of G-d’s miracles (Ramban, Introduction to Sefer Bamidbar). Thus, as the Rambam writes, “Scripture enumerates all these desert stations so that coming generations may see that their journey consisted of places very remote from cultivated land and naturally not adapted for the
habitation of man, thereby learning the greatness of G-d’s miracles, which enabled human beings to live in those places for forty years” (Guide for the Perplexed, 3:50). Additionally, there may be another reason as to why our Torah portion enumerates this extensive list of place-names. After forty years of traveling the desert (“a land of waste and darkness, where no man had dwelt” – Jeremiah, 2:6), the Jewish People camped just east of the Jordan River, poised to conquer Israel. Moshe, himself barred from entering the Land, was instructed to explain to his nation how to invade it and how to apportion its territories amongst the tribes: “G-d spoke to Moshe, saying, ‘Command the children of Israel and tell them when you arrive in the Land of Canaan…’” Thereby concluding Sefer Bamidbar with a vision to
Moshe himself, after tirelessly leading the people through the desert – persisting through crisis, ambushes, and rebellions – was not to continue with them.
the future, instructing the People how to settle the Land and fulfil the divine plan. However, Moshe himself, after tirelessly leading the people through the desert – persisting through crisis, ambushes, and rebellions – was not to continue with them. Tragically, he was to pass away atop a mountain overlooking the Land. Yet, it was only due to their many journeys through the desert, led by Moshe, that the Jewish People could have reached this point and come to enter G-d’s Land. The Torah therefore lists “the journeys of the children of Israel by which they left the land of Egypt by the hand of Moshe and Aaron.” Those fifty verses – naming the remote, desert sites of the Jewish People’s past travails, a ‘tedious’ travelogue – express the unfaltering, dedicated leadership of Moshe. They are bursting with appreciation to the greatest of our leaders, telling us never to forget those that Moshe helped us along the way, enduring an endless trail of journeying and camping, just so we could reach our goal.
Gavriel Cohn is an informal educator at Immanuel College, Bushey. He has written a number of Torah articles for various publications. If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch! gavcohn@ gmail.com.
Chovat Halevavot Hilchot Shabbat The next part of life which requires Bitachon is in respect of the reward that one gets for keeping Mitzvot whether in this world or in the Next World. At times a person may earn a reward in this world for keeping a certain Mitzvah and nevertheless earn more reward in the World to Come for keeping the same Mitzvah. The Torah is not too specific about the reward a person gets for keeping individual Mitzvot (there are exceptions but the general rule as the Tanna tells us in Avot is: You DO NOT KNOW the reward for Mitzvot). Why did the Torah purposefully keep the true benefits for keeping Mitzvot unrevealed? When it comes to committing sins (Heaven forbid) the Torah was very often specific about which punishment is to be carried out for which type of sin. There are seven reasons the author offers to explain the vagueness surrounding reward for Mitzvot. In short, they are as follows: 1. In a material world, one could not comprehend the true nature of the reward that
a non-material higher sphere can offer. It is like describing taste to one who has never tasted.
2. There was an oral tradition as to the rewards for keeping Mitzvot. When we had prophets among us, they would spell it out. 3.Similar to how one would encourage a child – through tangible gifts or treats, our nation’s collective understanding had not matured (at the time of giving of the Torah) to be able to truly understand what Hashem was offering us for keeping the Torah. The Torah therefore gave more “down to earth” encouragement. “Keep the Mitzvot – it will rain” and “If you serve idols and stray from Hashem you will be expelled from the holy land”. 4. Even if one keeps all the Mitvot perfectly from the beginning of life until the end, the extent of the reward being offered by Hashem far outweighs what is “due” to a person in “exchange” for keeping those Mitzvot. Further reasons to follow.
Another common application of the laws of Ba’sis (where a surface contains Muktzah at the onset of Shabbat) is in relation to drawers. If one had a drawer which contains Muktzah items and non-Muktzah items, it may be forbidden to open or shut the drawer on Shabbat. To start with, if the drawer contains Muktzah items alone, then it is obviously a Ba’sis and may not be opened on Shabbat. This is commonly the case in a freezer, where one often keeps raw food. If one has both Muktzah and non-Muktzah items, then it will depend on whether the Muktzah item is worth more than the non- Muktzah item. If the non Muktzah item is worth more, then the drawer does not earn a Muktzah status. If the non-Muktzah item is worth more, then it will earn the Muktzah status; nevertheless, if necessary, one can open the drawer, preferably in an unusual manner (for example using a spoon or a brush). If one has Muktzah in a drawer placed on top of a non Muktzah item due to space constraints, for example, raw chicken was placed on top of ice pops (and all the kids are clamouring for one) then one
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can shake off the raw chicken by taking the ice pops from underneath the chicken or a similar method. If a drawer is part of a table, then although the drawer itself becomes a Ba’sis and forbidden to move on Shabbat, the table itself does not, so long as the drawer cannot be fully detached from the table. If, however, the drawer can be removed from the table, then it retains its independent status and can thereby ban the table as well from being moved, unless there are other more worthy items on the table at the onset of Shabbat. There is a milder category of Muktzah called “Keli She’melachto L’Issur” and such Muktzah may not make a surface or a drawer into a Ba’sis, especially if one finds a genuine permissible use for it on Shabbat.
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Matot Masei RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE
KEEPING THE TRIBES INTACT
Mattot means “Tribes”. President Rivlin often speaks about the people of Israel (despite the many centuries since Biblical times) as a people of tribes. In the Torah the tribes derive from the children of Jacob; what President Rivlin speaks about are Ashkenazim and Sephardim, religious and secular, orthodox and non-orthodox, Chassidim and Mit’nag’dim and so on. Jews often ask why we need divisions and can’t unite into one overall people. The fact is that we really are one people but the differences reflect our history and make us so interesting. The obstacle we have to overcome is the tensions between us which sometimes explode into offensive language and a lack of respect for each other.
42 JOURNEYS
The sidra deals with the movements of the Children of Israel through the wilderness. Rashi tells us that there were 42 such journeys. There was more movement in the first and last stages of the forty years in the wilderness, which according to Rashi shows Divine generosity since G-d allowed a more settled life to develop during the middle period.
The Shechinah is not only present on earth but after death; the bliss of the afterlife gives the soul “the light of the Shechinah” (Talmud Berachot 17a; Epstein, page 331).
The people were not constantly on the move throughout the forty years but had opportunities to develop a community life without continually having to pack up and move on to the next stopping place. Sforno suggests that the story is a tribute to the people, since most of these 38 years required unbelievable stamina and hardiness. After all, what did they live in? Not solid mansions but ramshackle sukkot! What fortitude the people showed throughout this period! G-d protected them against the elements. Whether they knew it or not, it was His miracles that maintained them.
THE SHECHINAH
The Torah tells us in Num. 35:34 that G-d dwells amongst the people of Israel. What this means is indicated by the Targum Onkelos, which says that it is the Divine Presence, the Shechinah, that dwells amongst the Israelites. Saadya Gaon suggests that it is the Almighty’s radiance that illumines the Israelite camp. In “The Faith of Judaism”, my teacher Isidore Epstein speaks of “the overwhelming sense … of G-d’s omnipresence”. Epstein explains that though G-d is everywhere and in everything, this “does not mean that He is revealed in equal fullness, say, in a clod of earth and in a man” (pages 139-140).
MOSES WAS GETTING TIRED.
For many years Moses had led a difficult people through difficult times. He had coped with internal as well as external challenges and crises. He was getting tired. Today we would call it burn-out. It is a common problem among clergy, though in some other faiths, but rarely in Judaism, there is the further, more drastic problem of clergy drop-out for religious or intellectual reasons. For rabbis, the problem is not likely to be Judaism but the congregation. It may be a congregation that resists the Jewish commitment for which the rabbi would give his life. There may be an expectation gap: the rabbi wants to be a teacher of Torah and the congregation see him as a functionary, fundraiser, promoter, salesman and entertainer. The rabbi may have agonies of conscience, far from happy at having to turn a blind eye (or two) to the moral and ethical compromises of some of his members. There may be a problem of freedom of the pulpit: how can a rabbi give fearless leadership to the people who control his contract? (A London rabbi who served his congregation for seven years once said that in his first year he was idolised, in the second he was patronised, in the third criticised, in the fourth terrorised, in the fifth scandalised,
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in the sixth ostracised, and in the seventh demobilised!) It is a lonely occupation: a rabbi may have many friends but will find few soul-mates. The hours are long, the work is sensitive, there is a strain on one’s nervous system and one’s wife and family pay a price. There is no rabbi who does not have moments of sheer fatigue and frustration, but fortunately most bounce back and assure themselves, as Moses must surely have done, that theirs is the most worthwhile job in the world. 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
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Matot Masei
Matot Masei Word Search
This week we reach the dramatic conclusion of Sefer Bamidbar and we are in for a double thriller! Parshat Matot contains the story of the Jews waging war against Midian and teaches us the laws of what they were to do with the non-Kosher kitchen items they received from their enemies. We learn how to make something Kosher if it was used for non-Kosher purposes. We also learn of the request made by certain tribes to settle on the east side of the Jordan River, instead of in the Holy Land itself. Parshat Masei lists the 42 places which the Jews travelled through on their journey from Egypt to the Holy Land. After learning some more detail of the borders of the land and how it was to be kept within the intended tribe, we all rise and exclaim, “Chazak Chazak Ven’itchazek”! How amazing it has been to be able to once again complete a full Sefer in our holy Torah!
Tangram Challenge! Using all the shapes on the left can you make the rocket on the right?
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ELAZAR • GAD • JEWELLERY • JORDAN • MIDIAN • OATHS • REFUGE • REUVEN
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Y
ehudis was scribbling happily with her crayons in the kitchen when Chaim arrived back from school. He wandered over to the cupboard looking for a snack and after finding a fruit bar he went over to check on his little sister. “No!” he shouted. He grabbed the piece of paper she was scribbling on away from her. Yehudis started to cry. “What’s going on?” asked Ima, coming into the room. “Yehudis scribbled on my school work!” Chaim shouted angrily. “She always ruins everything!” “Chaim, I’m so sorry she has ruined your work. I’m sure daddy can help you fix it when he gets home. Please don’t be so angry, she’s only a toddler and didn’t mean it.” Chaim marched out of the room. He was furious with Yehudis, his siblings and with the whole world. Later that night when Abba and Chaim were working on his ruined school work together, Abba said “Chaim, Ima told me what happened today.” “Yes, Abba” Chaim said, “Yehudis ruined my school work!” “No” Abba said gently, “that’s not what I meant.” “What do you mean?” “I meant that Ima said you got so
Angry Times
angry with Yehudis. Your face went red, your fists were clenched. I am worried about you, anger is dangerous. Letting oneself get angry can cause harm to yourself and others.” Abba replied. “You know, we all have times when things don’t go our way or people do things that aren’t nice to us whether by mistake or on purpose, but getting angry never helps.” Chaim nodded his head, but he
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thought stubbornly to himself, it wasn’t my fault, she shouldn’t have scribbled on my work. The next morning in class, Chaim was daydreaming when he heard Rabbi Stern mention anger. Chaim perked up to hear his teacher say “The Rambam says that even a little anger is wrong. I have found that for me, counting to ten under my breath whenever I feel like I’m getting angry helps me to calm down
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and re-assess the situation.” Chaim wondered if anyone could avoid getting angry with his annoying sisters. Thursday afternoon was swimming lessons and Chaim came home later than usual. He walked into the lounge and saw that Rivki and Yehudis were playing HIS game. The one grandma had bought him especially for HIS birthday. How dare they? Chaim started shouting at Rivki and Yehudis. He was so angry that he took the game and threw it across the room. Pieces scattered everywhere. Then there was a deafening silence. Chaim suddenly looked around him. Yehudis was looking pale and scared and Rivki was crying. What have I done? He thought, shocked at his own behaviour. “I am so so sorry” Chaim started crying. He ran over to his sisters and gave them a big hug. “I didn’t mean to frighten and upset you both, I was just so angry that I wasn’t thinking straight. I’m so sorry.” Yehudis and Rivki hugged Chaim back. “It’s ok,” Rivki said. “We are sorry too. We know we shouldn’t have taken your game without asking.” Chaim smiled. “That’s ok” he said and thought, from now on I am going to try counting to ten.
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Matot Masei
In a nutshell This week we once again meet two Parshiyot and quite dramatic ones too! The first Parshah, Matot, opens with the laws regarding promises. The Torah considers a promise to be serious business and therefore if an adult makes a promise and then regrets it, they must ask a Rabbi, or a married lady can ask her husband if it is possible to cancel the promise. The Jewish people then get down to taking revenge against Midian for suggesting that the Moabites cause the Jews to sin. At the end of the war, the people took the spoils - including the pots and pans and it is in this Parshah that we are taught the laws of making utensils obtained from a non-Jew Kosher. If they used it for hot foods, then one would either make it Kosher by safely pouring on it or immersing it into, boiling hot water, or at times, would need to pass it through a fire. The tribes of Reuven and Gad noticed that the east side of the Jordan river had particularly good pasture for their ever-growing flock of sheep so they asked
Moshe if they could stay on the east side of the Jordan, instead of crossing over it with Yehoshua and the Jewish people. At first, Moshe was not too pleased with the request for two reasons. Firstly, it was reminiscent of the recommendation of the spies (whom we learned about several weeks ago) to not enter the Holy Land and secondly, it sounded as if they would not take part in the wars that were needed in order to conquer the land! Moshe made firm conditions to have the men of those tribes (as well as half of the tribe of Menashe) take part in the wars and only then, would they be able to settle in the other side of the Jordan river. Parshat Masei opens with listing the 42 stations the Jewish people met when they travelled from Egypt to the Promised Land. Some of them are listed with a story that happened at the place and there are some interesting allusions in some. For example, stop number 25 was a placed called “Chashmona” which is strikingly similar to the “Chashmonaim” (the
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.
Hasmoneans) whose festival commences on day 25 of the month of Kislev! Hashem then details the borders of Eretz Yisrael to Moshe. Masei continues with the laws of the Arei Miklat – a city of refuge for one who unfortunately and unintentionally killed a fellow Jew. Then we have the tribes of Menashe asking Moshe to ensure that with Tzelaphchad’s daughters taking a portion in the tribes’ land, that the daughters should marry within the tribe to ensure that the land stays within the tribe. This request is accepted. We all stand up and shout Chazak Chazak Ven’tichazek! But wait! We have not finished leining yet. There will be a second Sefer Torah read from in honour of Shabbat Rosh Chodesh. Av may not be the happiest month in the Jewish Calendar, but on Shabbat Rosh Chodesh Av we say Hallel and thank Hashem for all the kindness He has shown to us even whilst we have been in between the straits in exile for close to 2000 years.
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Q. What do you call the horse that lives next door? A: Your neighbour! Q. Why can’t a person’s nose be 12 inches long? A: Because then it would be a foot! Q: How do mountains stay warm in winter? A: They wear snowcaps!
(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)
1. I am not alive but i have 5 fingers. What am I?
3.I can fly but I have no wings. I can cry but I have no eyes. What am I?
Q: What do you call a fly without wings? A: A walk!
2. I look at you, you look at me, I raise my right, you raise your left. What am I?
3) A cloud! 1. A glove!
2) Your reflection!
1. Pain in the neck 2. Fade away 3. Step father
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4. The bottom line 5. Standing out from the crowd 6. Blood is thicker than water
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8 JULY 2021
SPORTS WEEKLY SPECIAL
EURO 2020
England face ‘day of destiny’ against Italy in Euro 2020 BY DAVID SAFFER England are in a major final for the first time in 55 years. Gareth Southgate’s team came from a goal down against Denmark to win 2-1 and book a day of destiny against Italy in the Euro 2020 final on Sunday night. Harry Kane scored the 104th minute winner, coolly slotting home after his penalty was saved by Kasper Schmeichel in the first period of extra time. Make no mistake, this victory was deserved. England were fitter, looked more in control and didn’t panic when they faced their first major challenge of the tournament after going behind. Above all, the team is packed with talent on the bench and as Denmark wilted in the extra 30 minutes, finishing the game with 10 players as all the substitutes had been used, England played keep ball for the final few minutes of the match. England boss Gareth Southgate told ITV Sport, “I’m so proud of the players. It’s an incredible occasion to be a part of. The fans were incredible all night. We knew it wouldn’t be straightforward. The game in Rome (against Ukraine) was straightforward. We said to the players we have to show resilience and come back after setbacks and we did that.” Regarding Kane’s penalty, he noted, “There’s nobody you’d rather have on it but he was up against a great goalkeeper. Thankfully it’s immaterial.” Southgate added, “I felt we’d get there but I knew we’d have a different sort of battle. Denmark are so underrated as a team and they caused us a lot of troubles. When you’ve waited as long as we have to get through a semi-final, the players, considering the limited international experience some of them have, have done an incredible job. The most pleasing thing is we’ve given the fans and nation a fantastic night and the journey carries on for another four days.” Regarding any celebrations, the England boss said, “They’ve had it, haven’t they? There was mayhem on the pitch and I was part of it. We’ve got to enjoy the fact we’re in the final but there’s one more massive hurdle to conquer.” As for the final, he noted, “Italy are a very good side. I’ve thought that the last couple
of years. They are in outstanding form Italy defeated Spain 4-2 on penalties and have defensive warriors who have after the match finished 1-1 after extra been through everything. It’s a great time. game to look forward to.” Jorgingo slotted home the all-imSouthgate added, “Finals are there portant spot kick after a thrilling ento be won. We’ll regroup and prepare counter between two great footballing nations with nine global titles between properly. We need to recover tonight, them. it’s taken a lot physically and mentally. Italy have also had that, although The Spaniards had been inconsistent they’ve had an extra day to recover.” and were not fancied to overturn the Kane told the media, “Unbelievable, impressive Italians who had shown what a game though, credit to Denskill and desire on route to the semis. mark. We dug deep and we got there But Luis Enrique’s team bossed this when it mattered. We reacted really match and but for a number of missed well, we’re in a final at home, what a opportunities would have saved themfeeling.” selves the heartache of spot kicks. As for his penalty, he added, “I chose The first half saw both sides show atthe side I was going to go, it wasn’t the tacking intent without a clinical touch. best executed penalty I’ve ever had Roberto Mancini’s side though were sometimes you miss and it falls your not quite the force they have been in way and thankfully it did today.” earlier matches however they opened the scoring on the hour with a brilLooking ahead to the final, he commented, “We know it’s going to be a liant goal on the break from Federico very tough game against Italy we’ve Cheisa. had a great tournament so far. One But Spain drove forward and thormore game to go at home and we can’t oughly deserved to equalise with a wait.” great finish from substitute Alvaro Morata after a subline one-two with Man of the match Raheem Sterling told ITV Sport, “It was a top perforDani Olmo. Both teams had chances mance. We had to dig in deep. It was to win, Spain more than the Azzuri, but the first time we conceded but we re- Harry Kane scored the winner against Denmark PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK the match inevitably went to penalties. Italy stepped up first and Unai Sisponded well and showed good spirit. The match was up for grabs and England mon comfortably saved a weak effort from We knew it would be difficult. We stayed patient and we knew the legs and aggres- slowly gained momentum but Schmeichel Manuel Locatelli, but Spain failed to take siveness we have in the team we’d be okay.” denied Harry Maguire with a terrific stop a grip on proceedings when Olmo struck Commenting on the penalty when he was before keeping out Mason Mount’s deft the crossbar. Andrea Belotti, Gerard Morefouled, Sterling said, “I went into the box touch before full time. no, Leonardo Bonucci and Tiago traded and he stabbed his right leg out. As long Into extra time and England was boosted penalties before Federico Bernardeschi as it goes into the back of the net, that’s all by Phil Fidon and Jordan Henderson from fired Italy to match point. Sadly, for Spain, that matters.” the bench. Morata, who had scored their goal late on, Schmeichel denied Kane with a strong had his effort easily saved by Gianluigi England were bright from the start with hand but Sterling was pulled down for a Donnarumma. Bukaya Sako looking dangerous early on. Sterling appeared sharp but Mikkel penalty and Kane stepped up to slot in the Jorgingo coolly slotted in the winning Damsgaard sounded a warning by curling rebound after Schmeichel saved to put his strike to break Spanish hearts, especially Morata and Olmo who had created a brila shot wide of the post. country ahead. England conceded a spectacular 30-yard But there were still 16 nerve jangling min- liant goal earlier in the match. free kick from Damsgaard on the half hour utes to go. Southgate sprung a surprise by Italy though were the winners on the but they didn’t panic, and when Kane slid bringing Keiren tripper on for substitute night and had qualified for their 10th major in Sterling, his effort was brilliantly saved Jack Grealish to beef up the defensive and tournament final. by Schmeichel. And so, the stage is set for the grand finale England stood firm. England kept pushing forward and when Indeed, they played the last few minutes and all roads lead to Wembley. Kane found Saka, the youngster’s low cross out superbly not giving a brave Denmark Southgate, Kane, Sterling et al now have was diverted by skipper Simon Kjaer into side a sniff at goal. a chance to join Sir Alf, Moore and Hurst his own net with Sterling ready to pounce Both semi finals were played at the na- as immortals. tional stadium in front of 60,000 fans. six minutes from half time. Come on England!
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Record breakers England thump Ukraine in quarter finals BY DAVID SAFFER England enjoyed a record-breaking 4-0 win against Ukraine in Rome to book a semi-final spot against Denmark at Wembley. Gareth Southgate’s side, boosted by a historic 2-0 win against Germany in the last 16, cruised into the semifinals with their most accomplished knock out tournament display in decades. Skipper Harry Kane was back to his best after his group stage struggles. Kane is England’s talisman and from the moment he poked home Raheem Sterling’s accurate pass on four minutes victory was not in doubt. Ukraine, following their exertions against Sweden, looked jaded, and when Harry Maguire thumped home a header from Luke Shaw’s free-kick just after half time, 20 million TV viewers back home could relax, a rare experience for England’s ever hopeful fans desperate for a first major honour since the Boys of ‘66. Kane headed home another pinpoint Shaw cross on 50 minutes and when substitute Jordan Henderson connected with a corner for his first international goal from Mason Mount’s corner, England fans were in dreamland. Ukraine were finished, Southgate racked up the substitutions to ensure no players would be suspended for the semis and England duly saw out a win and five successive clean sheets. “It’s fabulous,” Southgate told BBC Sport. “I suppose it’s still sinking in that it’s another semifinal, three in three years. We want to go two steps further. It’s fabulous for our country, a semifinal at Wembley. Everyone can really look forward to that, it’s brilliant.” He added, “I’m chuffed the two performances (versus Germany and Ukraine) have brought so much happiness to people. The players have been fantastic. To play as well as they did in a game with so much resting on it was impressive. We’ve known we had players we needed to look after physically. We know across seven games, the squad is so important, trying to give people a breather at the right time. We learned a lot from Russia (in the 2018 World Cup) in that instance. We were trying to balance players with knocks and yellow cards.” “What a great performance in a big game,” Kane told BBC Sport. “We were favourites. There was a lot of pressure and a lot of expectations. The performance was top-drawer. Another clean sheet, four goals, it was a perfect night for us.” He added, “It’s where we wanted to be. We set out a vision before the World Cup of what we want to achieve. We are knocking it off step by step. The World Cup was great but we fell short. We had a good run in the Nations League. We’re in another semi-final. Now
Harry Maguire of England scored against Ukraine
Jordan Henderson got his first goal for England
it’s about getting over the line.” “We have more experience (than 2018). We’ve been playing for our clubs in big games, Champions League finals, Premier League title races. We’re looking confident. Hopefully we can continue that.” Regarding his goals, Kane noted, “It’s always nice to score early in a game. It’s a great feeling to help the team. There was a lot of talk about me and my performances. But I’m just ready for the next game and trying to lead this team to the European final.” Maguire told BBC Sport, “We have great belief in the dressing room. It is hard to soak it up when you have another big game coming and you know who you are playing and when. The dressing room will be a great atmosphere tonight and then we will wake up tomorrow and be focused again. This group are not settling for a semi-final, we want to go further.” Henderson added, “We have always felt we are continuing to grow as a team and we feel we are ready to take the next step. Denmark are a tough side so we need to be at our very best if we want to go to the final but hopefully we can do that.” Henderson has waited longer than any other England player for his first international goal, after 62 caps. He noted. “It’s about time. It’s been a long time coming.
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK
Thankfully I managed to get on the scoresheet. I’m just delighted for the lads because the performance was fantastic.” England’s victory meant a third Euro semi-final historically after 1968 (when four teams played the knockout stages) and 1996. Other noteworthy milestones included Southgate becoming only the second England manager to reach World Cup and European Championship semifinals after Sir Alf Ramsey in 1966 and 1968. And keeper Jordan Pickford’s five clean sheets is a first for the competition. England had also recorded seven consecutive clean sheets. Denmark’s Euro crusade continued with a deserved 2-1 win against the Czech Republic in Baku. The Danes, playing with a spirit of destiny after midfielder Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest in the opening game, lost the next match but have played superbly since. Denmark overcame a physical Czech side with an impressive display in Azerbaijan after Thomas Delaney nodded home the opening goal on five minutes from a corner. Kasper Dolberg volleyed home to double the lead from a magnificent cross from Joakim Maehle before the break only for the impressive Patrik Schick to bag his fifth goal and move alongside Portugal’s Cristiano
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Ronaldo for the Golden Boot. The ‘92 champs though held firm with keeper Kasper Schmeichel backed by defensive trio Andreas Christensen, Simon Kjaer and Jannick Versergaard ensuring victory. In other quarterfinal clashes, Spain defeated 10-man Switzerland 3-1 in a remarkable penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time in St Petersburg. Swiss substitute Ruben Vargas fired over the crossbar enabling Mikel Oyarzabal to grab the headlines with the decisive spot kick. The Spaniards had opened the scoring when Jordi Alba’s shot was deflected into his own goal by Denis Zakaria on eight minutes. Swiss skipper Xherdan Shaqiri equalised after a defensive mix up midway through the second half but Spain soon had a numerical advantage when Remo Freuler was dismissed for a rash tackle on Gerard Moreno 13 minutes from time. Switzerland dug deep to reach the shootout although their opponents were guilty of poor finishing. However, the Swiss led after Sergio Busquets struck a post with the opening effort when Mario Gavranovic slotted home. Dani Olmo levelled for the threetime champions but Fabian Schar failed to keep the advantage. Rodri and Manuel Akanji traded misses before Gerard Moreno, who had missed numerous chances in the match, finally hit the target to edge Spain 2-1 ahead. And when Vargas missed Oyarzabal settled the contest. Spain face inform Italy at Wembley in the semifinals after Roberto Mancini’s team came through a tremendous tie 2-1 against world number one side Belgium in Munich. The Azzurri’s have won 13 consecutive games and are 32 games undefeated. Nicolo Barella showed great close control to evade three defenders to open the scoring before Lorenzo Insigne curled home a sensational second for the Italians just before half time. But in stoppage time Giovanni di Lorenzo inexplicably fouled Jeremy Doku in the penalty area and Romelu Lukaku slotted in the resultant penalty. Both sides missed opportunities in arguably the best contest of the tournament. Lukaku went close for Roberto Martinez’ much-fancied team but Leonardo Spinazzola, Federico Chiesa and Insigne also had chances to wrap up the game. Italy demonstrated their defensive nous towards the end, a highlight coming when Spinazzola blocked a Lukaku shot. Leonardo Bonucci and skipper Giorgio Chiellini celebrated as if it was the winning moment. Italy duly prevailed but lost the influential Spinazzola who was stretchered off late on.
Now is the PERFECT TIME to start learning DAF YOMI as מסכת סוכהbegins soon Friday 9 July 2021 | כ"ט תמוז תשפ"א (Start the Daf and make your siyum before this upcoming Sukkos!)
R' Eli Stefansky delivering the daf yomi shiur from the Merkaz Daf Yomi building in Ramat Beit Shemesh.
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When Virgin Atlantic launched direct flights between Tel Aviv and London Heathrow in September 2019, it was an especially proud moment for us all, not just our Israeli CEO Shai Weiss. With its appeal to both leisure tourists and business travellers alike, as well as being our only destination we could get to in less than five hours, excitement at flying daily to Tel Aviv was high. The route was performing far beyond expectation, consistently shining in the top five in terms of our customer satisfaction polls. While no one could have predicted the events since, and the devastating effect Covid-19 has had on the airline and travel industry as a whole, Israel’s world-leading testing vaccination programme, aided by MDA, has meant a joyful return for us and our passengers. Now, as Israel emerges from the crisis and builds out its path for reopening the country to foreign travellers, alongside the UK dropping the need to quarantine on return from Israel having added it to its Green list, demand has never been higher. We’re now back to flying daily between London and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion, and are excited to ramp that up to a twice daily service. And we want you to fly in style. We pride ourselves on making your journey with us a pleasure from start to finish. Whether it’s our incredible service, innovative products, our sparkling new aircraft, or the countless small, thoughtful touches, we’re always making sure that we’re putting you first. Our Upper Class service offers the perfect retreat at 30,000 feet, with lie-flat suites, fine dining, and an exclusive onboard social space.
“
On the ground, you’ll enjoy a private security channel and our beautiful Clubhouse lounge at London Heathrow. For little extras that make a big difference, our Premium cabin is the ideal choice. There’s priority check in and boarding, and a glass of bubbly to welcome you as you settle into your extra-large leather seat. In Economy, we offer three different ways to fly. Sail through the airport with hand luggage only with Economy Light, or check a bag and to choose your seat in advance in Economy Classic. Economy Delight is a bit more of a treat, with priority boarding and extra legroom. In every cabin, you’ll find WiFi, inseat power, fantastic food and drink included, and the latest music and movies. Of course, the health and safety of our customers and our people has always been our number one priority. We’ve recently been awarded the highest standard in Health and Safety by APEX and Simpliflying. We also want to make sure you can book your travel with confidence, knowing that if things change, so can your ticket. Our flexible booking policy means you can change your dates as often as you like. You can even choose a different destination or make one name change, with no admin fees.
We know so many of our customers are desperate to travel back to Israel for pleasure, work or just to see family and friends and we cannot wait until we see the Israeli Government formalise their plans around the safe opening of Israel to foreign travellers. The Team at MDA have played such an important part in Israel’s success story post Covid. We are delighted to be supporting them to and from the UK and Israel, and we are so excited to see more of their supporters and partners onboard a Virgin Atlantic Aircraft soon. Nick Bettles – Country Manager – Israel
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MDA UK STAKEHOLDERS’ DINNER WITH AMBASSADOR HOTOVELY We were thrilled to finally be able to host our stakeholders in one room for a wonderful event at The Grove at the end of June. This was our first in-person event in over 18 months, and to mark the occasion we were joined by Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely, who welcomed the opportunity to quote ‘get out of the ‘ghetto’ and experience life beyond the Embassy, The Residence and the local Tesco!’ Brian Kalms, MDA UK Vice Chair, welcomed the group before Daniel Burger took to the stage to discuss Magen David Adom UK’s strategic vision for the future of the organisation - in Israel, the new Middle East and beyond - and how, ultimately, together we can save more lives. After networking with MDA UK Board Members, Committee representatives and fellow supporters, guests left feeling energised and excited about what the future holds. Here’s hoping that this is just the start of a return to normality and the end of Zoom get-togethers!
OPERATION GUARDIAN OF THE WALLS May saw a return to violence and terrorism on Israel’s borders as the simmering conflict erupted once more. For 11 days Israel came under attack, and Magen David Adom once more found itself on the frontline. A constant barrage of rockets were fired into Israel and there were relentless violent attacks on the streets, until a ceasefire came info effect on 21st May. Magen David Adom Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics were at the scene of every medical emergency across the length and breadth of Israel. Their incredible teams risked their lives to ensure the safety and health of the population, often providing essential medical treatment to patients in the midst of red alert sirens.
Even when MDA teams and ambulances came under attack on the streets, they powered through to ensure that anyone who needed medical attention, received it. In support of our colleagues who were on the highest level of alert throughout the troubles, MDA UK launched an emergency appeal to fund two new Mobile Intensive Care Units (MICUs) that were made available immediately to begin their lifesaving efforts. We received an outpouring of support from donors here in the UK. In just a few days we not only funded both MICUs, but were able to purchase a third. To the hundreds of you who supported this campaign, thank you.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: THANKS TO THE INCREDIBLE GENEROSITY OF THE UK COMMUNITY, WE WERE ABLE TO PUT THREE NEW MICUs ON THE ROAD DURING THE HEIGHT OF THE TENSIONS.
@Magen David Adom UK @mda_uk @MDAUK_
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