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ISRAEL HOLIDAY NIGHTMARE INTERNATIONAL TOURISTS FROM COUNTRIES WITH LOW CORONAVIRUS RATES CANNOT ENTER ISRAEL UNTIL AUGUST 1ST AT THE EARLIEST.

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel is reinstating a number of measures to try and avoid a new coronavirus surge due to the Delta variant of the deadly COVID-19 virus.

The devastating COVID-19 update follows a meeting headed

by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz.

Over 100 new coronavirus cases have been recorded in the past two days bringing about the decision.

The Health Ministry said most cases were in Modi’in and Binyamina after outbreaks in schools. The mayors of both cities have re-established the mandate in schools.

Sadly, the new measures come after a mandate to wear masks indoors ended on June 15.

Most social distancing measures had ceased and the government was set to open its borders to vaccinated tourists in July. This has been quashed.

A medical worker collects a swab for a COVID-19 test in Rishon LeZion

Israel had also just allowed groups to enter the country, including a British one.

Ministers and public leaders will immediately wear masks indoors.

Health officials have mandated vaccinated or recovered Israelis entering quarantine under a number of scenarios. Officials can impose quarantine on vaccinated Israeli passengers coming

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

in from high-risk countries.

Quarantine may also be imposed on people in contact with a COVID-19 patient carrying the Delta variant or transmissible virus strains.

Bennett has been at the helm just over a week but acted swiftly and has called on Israelis to

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Judgement Jewish student from Maryland fatally stabbed reserved in Alta appeal

BY SIMCHA ABIR

A Maryland doctoral student was stabbed to death in broad daylight whilst visiting friends in a downtown neighbourhood of Chicago last Saturday.

Anat Kimchi, of Montgomery Country, was pronounced dead at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Chicago Mayor Lori Anat Kimchi z”l Lightfoot said Chicago police know who allegedly committed the random evil crime and are “scouring the various homeless encampments downtown” on Monday.

“We know who he is,” Lightfoot reportedly said. “We’ve got a good film of him. We believe he’s a homeless individual. It’s awful.

No question about it.”

Police said Kimchi was walking along an area known as “The Loop”. Police Supt.

David Brown confirmed the suspect was a homeless person. It is unclear why Kimchi was in the area.

“As you can see, there is a homeless encampment that is adjacent to where this

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crime scene is,” Brown reportedly told CBS Chicago.

“We suspect this likely is a homeless person that secreted themselves in the bushes and came out and committed this heinous crime.”

The 31-year-old was at the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Maryland.

“She was one of our best just about to PHOTO: COURTESY students, embark on a professional career,” Gary Lafree, chairman of the university’s Criminology Department reportedly told The Chicago Tribune.

“The University of Maryland grieves the loss of Anat Kimchi, a brilliant young scholar,” a university added in a statement. “We offer our condolences to her friends and family during this difficult time.”

Kimchi went to Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Montgomery County before an academic career in The University of Maryland’s Department of Criminal Justice.

Anat was buried yesterday, she is the daughter of Avi and Chava Kimchi and sister to Itamar and Ofer Kimchi.

Lord Justice Baker has reserved judgement in the case of two-year-old Alta Fixsler.

The Court of Appeal met to decide if an appeal could be heard yesterday. If granted, the appeal would have been heard the same day. The judge’s current order was put on hold.

“Judgement will be handed down at a later date, a draft judgement will be sent out,” Justice Baker noted at the end the hearing.

This month has seen Israel President Reuven Rivlin and Health Minister Yuli Edelstein join the quest for Alta to be treated in Israel in preference to palliative care.

And 10 US Senators, including Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, wrote to President Joe Biden to advocate to Prime Minister Johnson on behalf of the Fixsler family earlier this week.

Alta, an American citizen, is being cared for at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

“As parents, it is Mr. and Mrs. Fixsler’s right to fight to keep their daughter alive,” noted specialist senators. “It is unacceptable“ that people inW ! ” I WAN T IT NO Full colour, government think they, not parents, should decide what is in the best interest of a child, even in a matter of life and death. Equally disturbing is the utter disregard shown by the High Court for the religious objections raised by Alta’s parents.”

They concluded, “It is unconscionable that the British government is usurping the role of parents and disregarding the sincere religious objections of the family.”

Over 41,000 people responded to a Jewish Weekly petition launched to allow a leave of appeal to enable Alta, who suffered severe brain injury at birth, to be treated by an Israeli or American hospital.

The previous judge, Justice MacDonald ruled life-sustaining treatment should be withdrawn last month. But Alta’s family wanted her to be transferred to an Israel or American hospital care on religious and ethical grounds.

With time running out to save Alta, Rivlin appealed to Prince Charles to help Alta’s parents’ request.

Edelstein appealed to Health Secretary

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Matt Hancock on the family’s behalf.

According to Israeli law where parents oppose cessation of medical treatment leading to a child’s death and life expectancy exceeds six months, medical treatment must not cease.

Alta lacked oxygen when she was born in December 2018 but miraculously survived.

Hopes she may come home hit complications and the hospital advised removal of support but Alta’s parents demanded private support at home or abroad, both viable.

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24 JUNE 2021 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 avoid non-essential international travel.

“It’s not currently an order, it’s a request,” Bennett reportedly told journalists on a tour of Ben-Gurion International Airport with Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz and Transportation Minister Merav Michaeli on Tuesday.

“If you don’t need to go abroad, do not go abroad.” He added, “Everyone who enters the airport must wear a mask from the moment they arrive until the moment they leave.”

Horowitz noted the Ministry would “significantly strengthen” testing at the airport to prevent “unreasonable lines” forming.

The coronavirus cabinet has been re-established and will update the public in coming days.

Bennett said the government was working “to cut off” the Delta variant “early and decisively.”

Israel’s PM noted that “significant changes in entering and exiting Israel” may be announced after the coronavirus cabinet has analysed data. “The Delta variant of the virus, also known as the Indian variant, is spreading rapidly around the world, with an infection rate that is much higher than we’ve seen before,” Bennett explained.

All passengers must take a PCR test before leaving Ben Gurion. Israel is increasing testing sites from 30 to 70. Masks are now mandatory at the airport.

According to Ministry data, 125 Israelis tested positive for coronavirus on Monday.

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Of those tested, 78 were children, a third of new cases had both doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Of Israel’s population, 75% has received the Pfizer vaccine, including a small percentage of 12 to 15-year-olds according to data.

Experts believe Israel will not achieve herd immunity if teenagers are not vaccinated. Bennett is pushing to vaccinate all teens before July 9.

Health Ministry’s director-general, Prof.

Hezi Levi, backed the herd immunity notion but there was disagreement among some experts.

Ran Balicer, head of Israel’s COVID advisory panel, was unalarmed due to no severe cases reported among those infected. And Coronavirus response coordinator Nachman Ash described outbreaks as localised.

“This is a local and not a general outbreak, whose source is primarily from abroad,” Ash reportedly told Channel 13 News. “However, the issue of quarantine (after travel) isn’t being done properly, people aren’t strict about it and therefore we see contagion.”

Israeli travellers must sign a declaration stating they will not enter ‘hotspot’ countries including Russia, India, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz reportedly said, “With determined and rapid action, we will maintain a low level of infection and we will win this fight.”

Bennett backs new settlements

Naftali Bennett

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has backed construction of 31 units in West Bank Jewish settlements.

The subcommittee in the Civil Administration approved limited construction in Elkana, Mishor Adumim, Karnei Shomron, Kfar Adumim and Yitzhar.

Buildings include a school for children with special needs in Elkana, a shopping centre in Mishor Adumim and yeshivas and synagogues in Karnei Shomron and Kfar Adumim.

A small number of housing units were also approved in Yitzhar.

No date has been set for the Higher Planning Council to meet. But the Yesha Council, an umbrella organisation of municipal

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councils of Jewish West Bank settlements, called for the Council to back large-scale housing projects.

“We have been waiting for six months for approval of housing plans and that has not happened yet,” a statement said.

Meantime, the Supreme Court has upheld a decision to destroy the home of a Palestinian terrorist accused of killing an Israeli teenager last month.

The court dismissed a petition by Sanaa Shalaby, who lives in the house with their children and denied knowledge of the attack.

Muntasser Shalaby allegedly carried out a drive-by shooting in the West Bank Tapuach Junction that killed 19-year-old student Yehuda Guetta. He was arrested days after the attack.

Muntasser and his estranged wife have American citizenship.

The Supreme Court said Muntasser lived in the home from 2006-2012 and was at the address weeks before the attack. There is not enough evidence of mental illness.

The State Department has not commented on the ruling. Earlier this month, it called on Israel and the Palestinians not to hinder peace efforts, including home demolitions.

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CFI welcomes Durban IV stance and slams PA curriculum

BY ADAM MOSES Conservative Friends of Israel has welcomed the government’s announcement it will not attend the Durban IV conference over “historic concerns regarding antisemitism”.

CFI has also called on the UK to “act decisively to end its facilitation” of the Palestinian Authority’s “extreme curriculum” following a long-delayed publication of a damning European Union report.

The United Nations conference marking the 20th anniversary of the 2001 World Conference Against Racism in Durban takes place in September. Conservative parliamentarians in recent months have regularly raised concerns about the UK’s participation.

CFI Parliamentary Chairmen, Stephen Crabb MP, The Lord Pickles and CFI Honorary President Lord Polak described the announcement as “extremely welcome”.

“Confirmation that the UK will not attend Durban IV is extremely welcome,” they noted. “It is absolutely right that the UK is joining our close allies Australia, Canada and the US in condemning the infamous gathering. We applaud this latest decisive action from the UK Government in opposing antisemitism in

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all its forms and wherever it occurs”.

The 2001 conference undermined anti-racism efforts by singling Israel out for criticism.

Israel and the United States walked out of the summit after the revival of charges equating Zionism with racism.

The US, Canada and Australia previously announced they will not be participating in the 20th anniversary conference.

Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl also praised the decision. “We will always

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support the fight against racism, but this must include opposing antisemitism in all its forms,’ she noted.

CFI raised concerns last month about Durban IV with Prime Minister Boris Johnson urging the UK to boycott the conference and take a stand against antisemitism on the international stage or British Jews would not feel reassured of their safety at home.

“Zero tolerance to racism must mean zero tolerance,” a letter noted.

CFI Vice-Chair Rt. Hon. Theresa Villiers MP also wrote to Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on the matter.

Following up on an exchange in the House of Commons, the former Cabinet member welcomed Rabb stating the UK would not support any partisan or political attacks on Israel and was “crystal clear” in condemning antisemitism.

Conservative parliamentarians including Andrew Percy, Nicola Richards, Bob Blackman, Lord Shinkwin, Matthew Offord, Damien Moore raised the issue with Ministers in Written Parliamentary Questions and Lord Polak raised the issue in the House of Lords during the Queen’s Speech debate.

A decade ago former Prime Minister David Cameron boycotted the Durban III conference and the UK voted against the 2020 General Assembly resolution to convene Durban IV. Meantime, an EU report confirms Palestinian textbooks incite violence against Israel, promote terrorism and martyrdom and teach antisemitism.

Responding to the publication, Crabb, Lord Pickles and Lord Polak said British taxpayers would be “understandably appalled” to discover they had been funding “hate filled material” and criticised a “decade of prevarication and denial” by the UK government.

“Unless children are taught about peace and coexistence there will be little chance of a lasting peace,” they noted.

The UK and EU fund salaries of teachers involved in the production and implementation of educational materials.

Conservative MPs and Peers have repeatedly raised concerns over the PA’s curriculum in a long-running series of parliamentary debates, questions and letters to Foreign

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PHOTOS: WIKIMEDIA

Ministers.

The review undertaken by the Georg Eckert Institute for International Textbook Research was finished in February 2021 but has just been published following growing pressure.

It details many examples of radical material from 156 textbooks and 16 teachers guides used between 2017 and 2019.

The report includes illustrations of encouragement of violence and demonisation of Israel and Jews, including glorification of the “heroine” Dalal al-Mughrabi, who killed 38 Israelis, including 13 children, in a terror attack.

The report also found praise of terrorists who killed Israeli civilians in history, social studies books, science and maths books. And an exercise in a religious studies textbook asks students to discuss “repeated attempts by the Jews to kill the prophet” Muhammad and asks who are “other enemies of Islam”.

The PA introduced curricula reforms resulting in new textbooks for subjects for the 2017/18 academic year. Some 172 textbooks and curricula for all school levels and subjects in general education schools were analysed as part of a year-long project funded by the EU. The research project examined content in Palestinian textbooks addressing hate or violence, the promotion of peace and religious coexistence and elements addressing reconciliation, tolerance and the observation of human rights.

The EU financed the study of Palestinian textbooks on the basis of UNESCO-defined criteria of peace, tolerance and non-violence in education.

The study, carried out by the GEI, provides an objective analysis of current textbooks regarding international education standards.

Board of Deputies Vice President David Mendoza-Wolfson has welcomed the EU report on the Palestinian Authority’s curriculum containing antisemitism, glorifying acts of terrorism, negating Israel’s right to exist and messages that exacerbate the conflict.

“The UK must now act to make sure British taxpayer money no longer goes towards the teaching of hate, and that Palestinian education contributes to building long-lasting peace and coexistence,” he noted.

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Coalition backs Mount Meron inquiry

Meron

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel’s new cabinet has backed an official inquiry into the Mount Meron stampede at Lag B’Omer that killed 45 people in April.

A judge will head a four-person panel to ascertain what happened.

“The committee will investigate the chain of events and issue findings and conclusions regarding all aspects of the event,” noted a government statement.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Finance Minister Avigdor Liberman proposed the investigation.

“Forty-five people lost their lives in this terrible disaster, and it is incumbent upon us to prevent the next disaster,” Prime Minister Naftali Bennett told the cabinet meeting on Sunday. “The commission will not be able to bring back those who are no longer with us but the government must do everything it can to prevent unnecessary loss of life in the future.”

“All sectors of society visit Meron and it is our responsibility to guarantee their safety,” he added.

Gantz called the inquiry a moral obligation to the Israeli public and families who lost loved ones.

Gantz has long called for a commission of inquiry into the Mount Meron tragedy.

Former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to act but action never materialised. Media reports questioned pressure from ultra-Orthodox religious leaders and MKs. Gantz said last week an inquiry had support of Bennett and senior cabinet members.

Police have launched an investigation and the State Comptroller’s Office has announced a probe but cannot bring

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

criminal charges.

“It is a moral debt to the families, and no less, an important step meant to prevent such tragic events in the future,” said Gantz, adding the panel would have “extensive powers” to get a “broad and reliable picture” of the facts and events that led to the tragedy.

A panel would also identify failures and recommend lessons for the future.

Earlier this month families of victims of the Mount Meron Lag B’Omer stampede disaster wrote to Netanyahu demanding a State Commission into the tragedy. UTJ chairman Moshe Gafni, Shas chairman Aryeh Deri, and Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai received copies.

“We believe that only a State Commission of inquiry will carry out a thorough and decisive investigation,” families noted.

They added, “Members of the commission should understand the Chareidi lifestyles of the victims and include representatives of the bereaved families.”

The letter concluded, “We view the Meron tragedy as the civilian Yom Kippur of the state. Our goal is that this committee will prevent the next disaster and also exhaust the full extent of the law against all parties in the most appropriate manner.”

MKs backed a proposal by Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid to speed up the process of a State Commission. But MKs from Charedi parties, the Religious Zionist and Likud Party voted against the bill.

Religious Zionist chairman Betzalel was against the bill as it may stop future gatherings at Meron. Smotrich noted other decisions against orthodox Jews by the Supreme Court.

In related news, a police investigation continues.

Police have questioned 17 people regarding the tragedy which saw 45 fatalities and scores of injuries. All have been released, some conditional.

The National Economic Crime Fighting Unit is leading the investigation.

Materials have been collected as evidence from the Meron site. Search operations were have taken place in a number of locations.

State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman announced a special investigation would scrutinise the circumstances of the tragedy. Criminal liability would be referred to Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who launched a Justice Ministry investigation into police conduct.

An estimated 100,000 orthodox pilgrims were celebrating the festival at the historic resting place of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai when the worst civilian disaster in the State of Israel’s history occurred.

During the ceremony, tragedy unfolded in a narrow tunnel. Over 150 people were injured in the crush.

The government was warned of a disaster by former State Comptroller Micha Lindenstrauss in 2008.

Following a report, the government in 2009 tasked the Government Companies Authority at the Finance Ministry to form a body to maintain the area. But a State Comptroller’s Report published by Lindestrauss in 2011 said the government made minor repairs.

In 2013, then finance minister Yair Lapid placed responsibility on the Ministry for Religious Affairs.

But public safety questions again emerged in 2017 and a year later.

The death toll two months ago surpassed previous Israeli tragedies including the Tel Aviv central bus station, Shmuel HaNavi bus, Dizengoff bus, Coastal Road bus and Dolfinarium discotheque suicide bombings.

It also exceeded the death count following Lod Airport, Kiryat Shmona and Ma’alot massacres.

At Meron, there were nine fatalities when a roof collapsed in 1911.

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Israel’s patience has “run out” with Hamas

BY DAVID SAFFER Israel’s new leader had a stark message for Hamas about a more aggressive policy over violence from the Gaza Strip.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was speaking at public state memorial service for fatalities during Operation Protective Edge last month.

“Our enemies will know the rules,” he reportedly noted. “We will not suffer violence and a slow drip (of rockets). Our patience has run out.” Bennett added, “The residents of the Gaza periphery are not second-class citizens. Those who live in Sderot, Ashkelon, and Kfar Aza deserve to live in peace and security. In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians will need to get used to a different Israeli perception of initiative, aggressiveness, and innovation.”

Israel’s PM continued, “There is no intention to harm those who do not rise up

to kill us, and we do not hate those who are held hostage by a cruel and violent terrorist organisation.”.

Addressing bereaved families, Bennett noted, “Here, on these walls, are inscribed the names of the fallen who died protecting our homeland. These are the warriors who came from all corners of our country and fought together for a common goal, to safeguard and maintain the state of Israel. Today, more than ever, we are required to strengthen the threads of the fabric that binds us together into one nation. It is possible to act together without being deterred by those who are different.”

Bennett vowed to try to return the bodies IDF soldiers Oron Shaul and Hadar Goldin, killed in the 2014 campaign and captives Avera Mengistu and Hisham alSaeed, held in the Strip since 2014 and 2015 respectively.

“I know that over the years you have heard a lot of promises and statements and the families only know disappointment and grief, but now it is our watch and we are committed to this,” he said.

Bennett’s comments followed three days incendiary balloons being released from the Gaza Strip last week. There were 13 fires, eight caused by the balloons according to the Fire Service.

Israeli fighter jets struck military compounds and a rocket launch site belonging to Hamas in Gaza city and Khan Yunis, with no injuries reported.

Israel reportedly informed Hamas it would reignite last month’s 11-day conflict if need be.

“Fighter jets attacked Hamas military complexes that served as camps and meeting places for terrorist operatives in the Khan Yunis and Gaza Brigades,” an IDF statement said.

Bennett warns “wake up” over Iranian President

BY ADAM MOSES Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has warned world powers to “wake up” after the election of Ebrahim Raisi as the next Iranian president.

The new coalition will continue previous government opposition to the 2015 nuclear JCPOA deal.

Bennett opened his first Cabinet meeting by slating Raisi.

“They elected the hangman from Tehran,” he reportedly noted. “Raisi is personally responsible for the murder of many thousands of innocent Iranian citizens.”

Bennett added, “Raisi’s election is a signal to the world powers to wake up, possibly a last signal a moment before the return to the nuclear agreement, to understand with whom they are doing business and what kind of regime they are choosing to empower. The thing that is clear to all of us is that a regime of hangmen must not possess weapons of mass destruction.

That is the State of Israel’s clear and consistent position.”

Bennett also warned Hamas that Israel would not tolerate attacks from the Gaza Strip.

“Our patience is running out,” he noted.

Foreign Minister Yair Lapid tweeted that Raisi’s election should prompt “renewed determination” to halt Iran’s nuclear program. Lapid added the president-elect

was the “Butcher of Tehran” responsible for the deaths of thousands of Iranians.

IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi reinforced the message to US officials in Washington this week and warned against re-joining the nuclear deal.

Senior Israeli security officials included Maj. Gen. Tal Kalman, and Brig. Gen. Amit Sa’ar at high-level discussions.

Kochavi is the first senior official to visit the US since the Bennett-Lapid government was installed.

His visit was delayed due to Operation Guardian of the Walls last month.

Kochavi’s team met National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, US Central Command Gen. Kenneth McKenzie and US Special Operations Command Gen. Richard Clark.

“The Chief of the General Staff emphasised the shortcomings of the current nuclear agreement that will allow Iran to make significant progress related to centrifuges as well as to substantially enhance the amount and quality of enriched matter over the next few years, also emphasising the lack of supervision in terms of nuclear proliferation,” the IDF said in a statement.

Kochavi, who participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia explained the threat of returning to a nuclear agreement.

Ebrahim Raisi

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

“Raisi’s election is a signal to the world powers to wake up, possibly a last signal a moment before the return to the nuclear agreement, to understand with whom they are doing business…”

“All measures should be taken to prevent Iran from achieving military nuclear capabilities,” he noted.

Diplomats in Vienna are in a sixth round of indirect JCPOA talks. Sullivan, said there was “a fair distance to travel”

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“Terrorist activity was clearly seen in the attacked compounds.” They added, “The attack was carried out in response to the launching of incendiary balloons into Israeli territory. The IDF is prepared for every scenario, including the resumption of hostilities, in the face of continued terrorist operations from the Gaza Strip.”

Bicom noted an Israeli security delegation led by National Security Council Director Meir Ben-Shabbat would travel to Cairo for truce discussions.

Egypt has eased its stance towards Hamas by allowing its leader Ismail Haniyeh to visit Cairo after banning him. They also opened the Salah a-Din crossing near Rafah into the Gaza Strip for essential supplies.

The Hamas leadership met in the Gaza Strip to consolidate a ceasefire agreement with Israel on Monday but failed to reach a deal.

on issues including sanctions and Iran commitments.

Opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu views the 2015 agreement flawed but Bennett has opted to influence allies. Kohavi will set red lines for an agreement dependent on Iran upholding commitments.

President Reuven Rivlin and Mossad Director David Barnea will visit the US to back up the effort.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz told US defence officials that Israel is working with the Biden administration on monitoring Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

“We are working closely with our American allies in order to both increase oversight at this time and to clarify to Iran that all options are on the table, always,” he said.

In related news, Netanyahu accused Lapid of risking Israel’s security if he keeps the US updated on military actions against Iran.

“His commitment to a ‘no surprises’ policy with the United States against Iran is a telling blow to the core of our security,” Netanyahu reportedly told a Likud meeting.

“In my 15 years as Prime Minister of Israel, I was asked many times by the Americans to give such a commitment. I have always declined. Sometimes I updated them in advance about actions we intend to take, many times I did not. But I did not commit to notifying about all of our actions in advance, as such notice may invite pressure not to perform them, or leaks to the media that will foil our sensitive operations, and thereby deprive us of the freedom of action vis-à-vis Iran in existential matters.”

Lapid denied Netanyahu’s allegations over a US agreement.

Netanyahu added, “The Lapid-Bennett government isn’t worthy of leading Israel for even one day. Replacing this government is a top priority. It’s not a political matter, it’s a matter of national security.”

Meanwhile, Israeli media reported security officials believe there should be contingency plans for an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities after Raisi’s election.

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Israel welcomes first British group

BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel welcomed the first British group of vaccinated tourists since the COVID-19 outbreak as part of the process of reopening borders to international visitors last Sunday.

It is expected individual travellers will be allowed entry into Israel by August 1.

The 30-strong British group flew with British Airways and will be in Israel for 10 days visiting Jerusalem, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea, Tel Aviv and Jaffa.

The group was greeted by Israel Ministry of Tourism representatives who guided them through immigration and PCR tests mandated by Israeli law for incoming passengers.

Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked announced vaccinated tourists will be able to enter Israel by the end of July.

Children under six not vaccinated will be allowed to accompany vaccinated parents.

Tourists from countries with high morbidity including Argentina, Brazil, India, Mexico, Russia and South Africa can enter Israel under special circumstances, such as parents of a bride or bridegroom.

There have been coronavirus outbreaks this month traced to people entering Israel.

As of Monday, Israel is tightening restrictions, there is no plan to restrict entry of

tourists but the situation is fluid.

Israel is running a pilot for vaccinated tour groups to determine the best way to reopen its skies while maintaining the country’s successful fight against COVID-19.

At present, all tourist attractions, sites, restaurants, cafes, cultural and sporting events are open, without corona-related capacity restrictions, indoors or outdoors.

Israelis have not had to wear masks outdoors since April. As long as tourists can prove they have antibodies upon entry into Israel, the same rules will apply.

Yael Katan, British Airways’ Regional Commercial Manager in Israel, said, “British Airways is flying daily between the UK and Israel and this pilot is an encouraging sign for vaccinated UK visitors planning a trip this summer. We await details about its expansion to individual travellers with great interest.”

Sharon Bershadsky, Director of the Israel Tourist Office, welcomed the first organised tourist group in over a year.

With Israel one of a few countries on the UK’s Green List it is hoped more will holiday in Israel.

Rabbi Nechemia Malinowitz, Igud of Foreign Yeshivot and Seminaries, published a letter Monday with guidance for institutions receiving students from abroad due to concern over the Indian variant.

Students must be vaccinated, those recovered from COVID-19 must present a PCR test.

Passengers who don’t have a positive test will not be approved for entry even with a doctor’s letter or a positive antibody test.

Igud staff though are working to extend approval to those with antibodies but lack a positive PCR test and do not wish to vaccinate.

In related news, newly installed Minister of Tourism Yoel Razvozov is determined to bring the industry back to full operations.

“My first task is to build a correct and effective outline for the easing of conditions for tourists to enter Israel,” he noted. “Of course, without endangering the citizens of Israel and in cooperation with the professional bodies in the Ministry of Health.”

He added, “I will continue to work vigorously to rehabilitate the tourism industry.

The assistance for the hotel and tourism industries will continue until the end of the year.”

Outgoing Tourism Minister Orit Farkash-Hacohen is now Minister of Science and Technology.

Farkash-Hacohen wished Razvozov success and recalled taking the post during the second wave of the pandemic.

“This is not a period that characterises Tourism ministers,” he said. “I felt a very high sense of mission and pushed a lot of things for the industry. Mostly, I want to tell the employees of the ministry that we worked under difficult conditions because of the corona pandemic. You entered my heart, I hope you will only succeed.”

Religious hatred often begins in schools

BY ADAM MOSES Conference of European Rabbis president Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt hosted a high-level panel discussion on how religious hatred can be countered in schools and educational sectors.

Guest panellists on the Institute for Freedom of Faith and Security in Europe ‘CER initiative’ included moderator Professor Peter Neumann, Yonathane Arfi, Jewish Central Council, Monika Hohlmeier MEP, and Marcus Sheff, CEO IMPACT-se and Peter Rosengard, Since 9/11.

Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt and security expert Peter Neumann, from King’s College London, spoke of a great shadow cast on Europe by religious hatred.

Arfi offered an insight into the French education sector.

“Schools play a central role in the fight against religious hatred”, he noted.

Jews have switched to private schools in recent years due to attacks. Arfi recalled attacks carried out by Mohammed Merah, who killed three Jewish children, a teacher and three soldiers in Toulouse in 2012.

IMPACT-se analyses schoolbooks and curricula for compliance with

Professor Peter Neumann

PHOTO: ICSR

UNESCO-defined standards on peace and tolerance.

Scheff observes the Middle East region, he said, “School books there are a blueprint for radicalisation and extremism,” he warned.

Moderation, tolerance and peace-making

are absent from these textbooks, Scheff added.

Hohlmeier condemned the PA’s failure to act against incitement in textbooks and insisted educators receiving EU-funds abide by UNESCO standards against hate.

Hohlmeier called on the EU’s executive body to ensure funds promote peace and tolerance in schools.

“It has to be ensured that all third entities only use Union funds to provide for textbooks and teaching material that reflect common values and fully comply with UNESCO standards promoting peace, tolerance and co-existence in school education,” she explained, adding that teaching tolerance should be a priority for every European government.

No government should allow this vital task to be “outsourced” to third countries, Hohlmeier concluded.

Arfi illustrated how important it is to convey historical contexts correctly citing how the Holocaust is addressed in French schools where many students had the impression that enough is enough with the memory of Nazi crimes.

“There is a need for exchange about the commemoration of historical events,” he

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noted.

Arfi added that positive Jewish contributions to French and European culture was rarely a topic at schools.

Rosengard, who founded UK charity Since 9/11 demanding that tolerance and peaceful coexistence should be the basis of a curriculum.

“Just as we are currently vaccinating the world against Covid-19, we must also vaccinate the world against hatred”, he said.

“The most important goal of school education must be to convey a sense of complexity to reconquer lost territories in schools”, Arfi added.

“Education is a crucial key, because everything in life is shaped by the impressions and experiences one gathers as a child”, said Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt. “At the same time, it must be ensured that religious education does not hurt any child, but takes other faiths into account”.

CER’s president called for better education of religious leaders.

“Hate and false narratives increase the danger of growing extremism and terrorism,” he said. “Students but also religious leaders must be taught the fundamental principles and values of Europe.”

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Police act after CAA pressure

BY SIMCHA ABIR Police are investigating an alleged follower of Islamist group who called for a “jihad” to wipe out the Jewish state after pressure from Campaign Against Antisemitism and Jewish groups.

Comments by Hizb ut-Tahrir were filmed during an anti-Israel rally outside the Pakistani consulate in Birmingham in May. A West Midlands Police spokesman said, “We have received a report raising concerns over the nature of the language used by one of the speakers, alleging it was antisemitic hate speech. A hate crime has been recorded and it’s currently with our investigators for an assessment.

We will not tolerate hate crime, and we would always encourage people to report offences to us so we can take appropriate action.”

CAA tweeted, “We have received a video that appears to show a man calling for a “jihad” to wipe out the Jewish state.”

Hizb ut-Tahrir was mentioned in a 2019 report from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

The report found most groups analysed promote a divisive view of the relationship between Muslims and non-Muslims in the UK through public messaging.

CAA has highlighted organisations,

including IHRC and MPACUK. Anyone with information should call the police or email investigations@antisemitism.org In other news, Krakow has banned the sale of antisemitic figurines depicting orthodox Jews holding coins. The ban follows pressure from Polish Jews.

Robert Piaskowski, the city’s alderman for cultural affairs, noted, “This figurine is antisemitic and it’s time for us to realise it.

In a city like Krakow, with such a difficult heritage and a painful past, it should not be sold.”

Meantime, formal complaints have been submitted to Sheffield City Council and the Labour Party regarding antisemitism.

The Director of Legal and Governance at Sheffield Council confirmed complaints received would be taken seriously.

Sheffield City Council has adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism.

A Labour spokesman noted the Party takes all complaints of antisemitism extremely seriously.

Sheffield Council releases a complaints list to the standards board annually but does not name individuals.

In Canada an editor and publisher have lost an appeal against convictions for promoting antisemitic and misogynistic hate.

Jewish groups welcomed the decision.

James Sears, editor of Your Ward News,

and publisher, LeRoy St. Germaine, appealed against 2019 convictions.

At his trial, Sears stated he did not believe gas chambers were used in the killing of six million Jews and claimed he had a “right to file a truth defence on historical facts”.

At the January 2019 trial, Judge Richard Blouin, now retired, convicted both men of promoting hatred. He later sentenced Sears to a year in jail and St. Germaine to a year’s house arrest. He would have given Sears a tougher sentence if legislation allowed.

At an appeal, Ontario Superior Court Justice Peter Cavanagh rejected arguments the Blouin had made errors, shown bias or Sears’ lawyer was incompetent.

Your Ward News was distributed to over 300,000 homes and businesses in the Toronto area for over three years and was available online.

According to reports, it promoted Holocaust denial and antisemitic tropes.

In Silicon Valley, leading figures have signed a letter condemning a spike in antisemitism across the US. The letter notes, “Today, we stand against antisemitism and violence against Jews. This is true regardless of your views on Israel, this is about protecting people from the injustice of antisemitism and hatred.”

€1m fund for Luxembourg Holocaust survivors.

The Claims Conference has announced a €1m fund to provide one-time cash payments to Luxembourg Holocaust survivors.

The Luxembourg government on behalf of the Jewish community, World Jewish Restitution Organisation and Luxembourg Foundation for the Remembrance of the Shoah have signed an agreement.

Eligible for a payment are applicants persecuted by the Nazi regime or allies from January 1933 to May 1945.

An applicant must be alive at the time of an application. Should they pass away after the submission, the legal successor(s) who contact the Claims Conference within an appropriate time period with required documentation will be entitled to the portion of the payment.

The application deadline is October 15, 2021.

Michael Newman, AJR CEO said, “The AJR is ready to help with enquiries about this fund or other Holocaust-era compensation and social welfare programmes.”

The AJR supports Jewish victims of Nazi oppression in the UK and is the largest supporter of Holocaust educational programmes.

AAD applaud FA over racism stance

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Action Against Discrimination has applauded the Football Association for its stance it has taken against racism in UK football.

But AAD believes football should not be used as a political platform as an alternative to effective measures and sanctions.

The organisation noted with interest that Scotland did not “take the knee” when they played England at Wembley in their Euros 2020 clash and Premier League newcomers Brentford FC are refusing to “take the knee” next season.

Leading black players and pundits, such as Wilfried Zaha and John Barnes, have also expressed firm opposition to “taking the knee”. In the same vein, chairman Jonathan Metliss is disappointed the FA refused to condemn the display of the Palestinian flag by players from, in particular, Leicester City, Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool, which had the effect of inciting racial hatred towards members of the Jewish community.

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Jonathan Metliss

PHOTO: AAD

“AAD strongly criticises the FA for failing to condemn these clubs for not taking any action, and the clubs themselves,” he noted. “We also express our disappointment at the lack of attention to antisemitic abuse in UK football, both online and otherwise, in the media and elsewhere. It would be reassuring if antisemitism was properly and fully included in the various anti-racism campaigns and debates.”

Metliss added, “We trust that antisemitic behaviour will be seriously addressed and remain high on the anti-racism in football agenda on a par with all other forms of racism and discrimination.”

AAD has applauded efforts of the England and Wales Cricket Board to address racism in cricket where that exists, although nowhere near the level seen in football.

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Israeli politics and the Knesset We have received an overwhelming amount of positive messages for our weekly “Election”, “Coalition Talks” and now “Knesset News” pages written by James J. Marlow.

Thank you James for your hard work and keeping us all updated on the latest insights into Israeli politics. Indeed your analysis has been a cut above the rest of the other UK Jewish Newspapers these past 7 months.

The “Change Government” of Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, with its razor thin 60-59 majority is now in place. So we have decided to continue

with the Israeli Political News from the Knesset, in the form of: Questions and Answers from the public, in order to keep our readers informed.

Therefore if you have a political question for James, please send him an email to James@TheCommunicationBureau.com In the meantime, these are some of the questions James has been asked in the last few days, either through some zoom talks he has given or on a news network. So over to our chief correspondent James Marlow and the first question.

Marc Wolf asks: JAMES, I heard there was a no-confidence vote this week in the new government submitted by the Likud, even though they couldn’t win it. What was the point?

Hello Sharon: Olmert’s Kadima party, could not support him after the evidence of receiving brown envelopments stuffed with cash were overwhelming. Kadima, news networks and polls all told Olmert that he should resign, but he refused, until his popularity eventually collapsed.

Kadima’s number 2, Shaul Mofaz and the party’s number 3, Tzippy Livni, both told news networks that he had to go and that his position was untenable.

Compare that with not one Likud MK or high-profile party member called for the resignation of Netanyahu. Likud MK Gideon Sa’ar challenged Bibi in a leadership contest 18 months ago, but only received 20% of the vote and then agreed to back him.

In addition Olmert was being accused of receiving cash payments, including from my Jerusalem neighbour, Moshe Talensky, who admitted giving him brown envelopes stuffed with notes. Other payments came from building contractors who in return, received building permits for huge

with political analyst JAMES J. MARLOW because there was a signed coalition agreement between Labour and the Likud in 1984 with a rotating premiership.

Up to last Sunday 13 June, none of us really knew if a government was able to be formed, including the Netanyahu’s.

Moreover their apartment further down Aza Street in Rehavia needs some major security adjustments which will take some time.

However the new security fixtures at their house in Caesarea along the northern coast will be completed next week and the Netanyahu’s have confirmed they are moving out of Balfour Street on 10 July.

But in my view, the media made a big “song and dance” on this issue, even though Prime Minister Bennett was perfectly happy to remain for another couple of weeks in his home in Ra’nana.

Shoshana Jacobs asks: JAMES, How comes there was an “Israel is an Apartheid State” conference in the Knesset this week?

Hello Marc: The new government defeated a vote of no-confidence last Monday by 59-49 and it was submitted by the Likud, Shas and United Torah Judaism. The point being, an opposition never knows whether the government can muster all their MKs into the plenum at that exact time, especially as the government only has a one seat majority. So as far as the opposition are concerned, it is worth a go.

Plus this action takes place in the Knesset all time. Yair Lapid constantly submitted no-confidence motions in the Netanyahu government from 2015 onwards.

Sharon Rimonim asks: JAMES, Netanyahu told Ehud Olmert in 2007 and 2008 that he must resign due to indictments of corruption against him. But when Netanyahu is indicted, he insists he will not resign.

Why?

24 JUNE 2021

unpopular developments in the south of Jerusalem.

In the end, Olmert’s secretary and trusted confidant, admitted she was the one who took care of the “payments”.

Compare that with 2 of Netanyahu’s 3 criminal convictions which are looking for more favourable press coverage. The third indictment is related to receiving lavish gifts including bottles of champagne and cigars, from a wealthy businessman. In my view, not the worst criminal offences ever portrayed, but I am not the Judge in the case.

However the most important thing to remember is the Likud party led by Netanyahu, still received 30 seats at the last election, so it did not bother almost 2 million people. In 2009, as head of Kadima, Tzippy Livni won 29 seats against Likud’s 28, however she was unable to form a coalition when Netanyahu could. For those interested, Shaul Mofaz challenged her for the leadership and won. But only managed to reach 2 seats in the 2013 election and actually joined Netanyahu’s coalition. The party disappeared in the 2015 election.

David Lederman asks: JAMES, Last week you wrote that “heckling is part of a healthy, vibrant, democracy” in the Knesset, during the swearing-in process of the

new government, but can you really see government MK’s behaving in the same way?

Hello David: They did, this week. In particular former Likud MK Ze’ev Elkin, who is now with Gideon Sa’ar’s New Hope party, screamed at Netanyahu, Yuli Eidelstein and other leading Likud MK’s before the no-confidence vote on Monday.

Elkin claimed that Netanyahu was paying “thugs” to protest outside his home and frighten his children. In fact the accusations and language was so extreme, Netanyahu requested the opportunity to respond briefly, and it was granted. So both sides, heckle. Both sides, shout and scream and both sides use very strong rhetoric. That’s the Israeli Knesset for you.

Nina Simmons asks: JAMES, If Netanyahu is no longer the premier, why is he and Sara still living at the official residence of the Prime Minister? When Shimon Peres handed over to Yitzhak Shamir in 1986, he moved out the next day. So isn’t it time we cut off the electricity and water to the house?

Hello Nina: Firstly Shimon Peres knew which day he was moving out of the PM house more than two years before,

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Hellow Shoshana: Ironic, isn’t it? Jewish and Arab MK’s in the Knesset accusing Israel of being an apartheid State.

The event was held on Tuesday and hosted by MK Aida Touman-Sliman of the opposition Arab Joint List and MK Mossi Raz of the left-wing Meretz party, who is a member of Naftali Bennett’s government.

During the event, representatives of left-wing organisations such as B’Tselem, Adalah, Peace Now, Yesh Adin, Gisha, Breaking the Silence and Human Rights Watch, all presented reports about the situation in Judea and Samaria since 1976.

Yamina MK Abir Kara entered the committee room and yelled at Raz and Touman-Sliman for holding such an event.

Then Religious Zionist MK Itamar Ben Gvir joined and called them “terrorists” and “terror supporters”. He shouted the same accusation at Joint List MKs Ofer Cassif and Ahmed Tibi, who responded “Shut your mouth, you racist fascist” and other words that are not permitted to be printed in such a Jewish newspaper.

Meretz MK Mossi Raz told Kan Radio after the event, “We talked about the occupation, protecting human rights and promoting peace.” Although Raz admitted, he was asked not to use the word “apartheid”.

However in a shock reply to the radio presenter about being in a government with Yamina, the Meretz MK said, “I do not support the Prime Minister”. Which makes you wonder how long will it take for the government to lose a no-confidence vote.

Finally in case you were wondering, the Knesset event on Tuesday was titled “After 54 years: From Occupation to Apartheid”, hosted by Jews and Arabs. And a pro-Israel Palestinian Arab called Yoseph Haddad, who has Israeli press credentials was removed from the committee room because he shouted at the Arab MK’s for being racist, and he was himself removed from the room by security officials. He later explained his experience on Channel 12 News.

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OPINION

There’s a big storm moving in and it’s called Iran OPINION PIECE

BY JAMES J MARLOW It was the not the Iranian people who chose the new Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, it was the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been in power since 1989 and holds every single chunk of authority.

At least in previous elections, Khamenei made it look as if Iranian elections were half democratic. But this time, he and his Shiite hierarchy clerics, did not care what the world would think or what their people did. They wanted Raisi and they were going to appoint Raisi.

As it turned out, most of the Iranian public did not even bother to turn out and vote. There was no point.

From a regime prospective, Ebrahim Raisi is the right man to lead the Islamic Republic and advance Iran’s military

nuclear programme. He is entirely committed to the project and comes with an impressive and compelling CV which includes extremism, ruthlessness and mass murder.

Just perfect for a regime who plan on moving to phase-two in the international geo-political game of cat and mouse, by sending a strong and uncompromising message to what Iran perceives, as a weak western world, more concerned about transgender equality than global military threats.

The international community should be very concerned. If it would at least take its head out of the sand and wake up to what is unravelling before their very eyes, they would realise the Iranian quest for nuclear weapons with international ballistic rockets, will not be halted.

News networks are describing Raisi as a “hardliner”. But that is almost a compliment to someone who really is a murderous religious fascist, showing absolutely

The international community should be very concerned. If it would at least take its head out of the sand and wake up to what is unravelling before their very eyes… no mercy on their people. Raisi will never tolerate any decent or alternative narrative, and really believes he is now the ALL and MOST powerful, only to be outranked by the Supreme Leader, for now.

The new President received his notorious reputation as a hang-man and a butcher through the Iranian court system.

He was essentially the head of a committee of four, until the recent election, which in the late eighties, sentenced thousands upon thousands of “dissidents” to death.

This came at a time the Iranian regime was tightening its grip on the Iranian people, during and after the negative developments of the war against Iraq.

This is how Raisi, as chief of the judiciary, the man that killed off anyone – husband, wife, father, mother, son or daughter, any citizen, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the Iranian regime, received the name, “The Butcher.”

Even Amnesty International, which normally does not interfere in Iranian affairs, raised the issue at the time. But it made no difference. Raisi of course rejected all criticism and described himself as a “defender of human rights”.

The new President is extremely ambitious and there are rumours that Ebrahim Raisi believes that one day, he will succeed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and become the new Supreme leader.

But in the meantime, Iran has to emerge from its current and almost desperate economic situation with a plan to save the country.

The Iranian people are suffering under a painful, near economic collapse because of the sanctions, while at the same time they live under a crawl, barbaric regime that just became much worse.

Even the six world powers knowns as the P5 + 1 (China, Russia, USA, UK, France and Germany) just don’t know what to do.

The most pressing question today is will the United States lead a slow return to the disastrous 2015 JCPOA agreement, which Donald Trump pulled out of?

It’s important to stress and highlight that the agreement ONLY delays the Iranian nuclear project, it does not scrap it.

Iran have been pushing for an agreement because its economy is a stake.

But Raisi will insist on a lifting of all the

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

sanctions and will not commit to abandon its nuclear ambitions.

The good news for Israel is that such a new appointment to the Iranian Presidency will make it slightly easier, for the Israeli government to convince the American administration, that they must retain all the leverage on future dealings. If not, any deal brings Iran closer to nuclear weapons.

It’s very nice that President Biden at the recent G7 summit in Cornwall, South Western England, spoke of the need to insure that Iran never has “The bomb.”

When Biden met Putin in Geneva, the US President stressed a similar sentiment.

But unless the west hold all the leverage, meaning they re-write the agreement with no expiration date, Iran win. A new agreement must include an end to their international ballistic missile programme, a reduction in the amount of uranium being produced, along with full access to all military compounds at any time.

Even President Macron raised the issue of scraping the so called sunset clauses – the point of time in which the agreement expires and Iran is free to develop a nuclear weapon.

But Iran has sent a powerful message to the world. By appointing Ebrahim Raisi, any negotiations will be on Iran’s terms.

Therefore, even if there is an agreement which allows Iran to pursue its goal, there may be no other choice but for Israel to act militarily against the nuclear plants.

If this happens, and we hope the world will wake up and see what is taking place before, would it not be ironic that it is Israel who by definition, saves the world again from another dangerous nuclear reactor in the Middle East. First it was Iraq.

Then came Syria and in the coming two to three years, Israel may sadly have no other choice but to act.

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

24 JUNE 2021

OPINION 15

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The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper

The Durban debate OPINION PIECE

BY DAVID COLLIER The UK Government will boycott the upcoming UN ‘Durban IV conference’ due to concerns about antisemitism.

A Government spokesperson confirmed: ‘Following historic concerns regarding antisemitism, the UK has decided not to attend the UN’s Durban Conference anniversary event later this year.’

It is important to understand why.

The UN ‘Durban IV’ conference claims to be about an international effort to fight racism, but it marks the 20th anniversary of the original Durban conference, which turned into what was described at the time as an ‘anti-Jewish hate festival’. At the 2001 event, several delegations walked out, and the general discomfort at the level of antisemitism associated with the event led to ten western countries boycotting the second event (Durban II) in 2009 completely.

The ten-year anniversary in 2011 (Durban III) was also widely boycotted. The UK was

one of those that refused to attend.

When it comes to the landscape of modern anti-Zionist activity, from the labelling of Israel as an Apartheid state and accusations of settler colonialism, all the way through to wild claims about genocide – all roads lead back to the original Durban conference. Participants revived the vile charge that ‘Zionism is Racism’ that the UN had revoked in 1991.

One of the key players at the 2001 Durban conference was Iran and they held a special pre-conference in Tehran immediately before the main event. Jewish NGOs and Israel were not invited.

Alongside the main conference in 2001, a special NGO forum took place, which used language far harsher and less diplomatic than even those penned by participating unfriendly nation states such as Iran and Syria. The NGO agreements reached at the time are referred to as the ‘Durban strategy’; an NGO-driven attempt to demonise and ostracise the Jewish state.

The strategy has been relatively successful. The world’s largest human rights NGOS such as Amnesty and HRW have since become Israel obsessed, driving a narrative that focuses on Israel more than any of the

quashed – the voice of the Jews. The antisemitism we see rising on our street, the denial of the Jewish voice and the ostracisation of the ‘Zionist’, all take their cue from this 2001 UN event. It was planned that way. It is why it is difficult today to separate anti-Israel activity from the antisemitism that always seems to accompany it.

We should therefore give our thanks to Boris Johnson’s Government for doing the right thing, and joining the Australians, Canadians, and Americans in boycotting the September 2021 anniversary event.

As David Cameron put it when he withdrew the UK from the 2011 event, the 2001 event saw ‘deplorable antisemitism’ that needs to be condemned, not celebrated.

It is a relief to see that the current Conservative government is maintaining its serious approach to tackling the oldest hatred. We should now look to other western nations such as France and Germany to withdraw. They certainly have no place attending a celebration of antisemitism.

Looking at the wider picture, perhaps we need to be asking all western governments why they fund United Nations events such as this at all. Is there really nothing better to spend our money on in 2021 than promoting a hatred of Jews?

world’s real human rights abusers. Other NGOs such as B’tselem have produced Apartheid accusation reports in line with the declarations of the time.

The long-lasting effects of that first Durban event are difficult to overstate. The seeds of the boycott against Israel, ‘BDS’ were also planted at the conference. Using the blueprint of the international fight against Apartheid South Africa, a decision was made to replicate the movement to isolate Israel. It took four years and a few failed attempts, but in 2005, the BDS movement was born.

The crossover between anti-Israel activity and hard-core antisemitism was firmly embedded in the Durban strategy.

Outside the main halls of the conference, the atmosphere could not have been more toxic. Rabid antisemitism and Holocaust denial was visibly on display. There was a flier distributed depicting Hitler with the question, ‘what if I had won’? The notorious antisemitic forgery, the Protocols of the Elders of Zion was even on sale. Protocols at an ‘anti-racist conference’? It does not get more absurd than that.

Of all the minority groups that attended the conference – only one voice was

David Collier is an investigative journalist who has done extensive research on antisemitism within anti-Zionist activity.

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16 OPINION

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OPINION

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The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper

Time to be positive OPINION PIECE

BY ROBERT FESTENSTEIN

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Over 40 years ago my good friend (then and now) Mike Horesh said to me: ‘it’s hard to think movement ideology when you’re up to your knees in camel poo’. Then we were dealing with anti-Israel activity on campus, and currently, the situation is if anything, worse. Many of those anti-Israel activists have taken senior positions in institutions around the country, have shed their anti-Israel cloaks and are either supporting Jew hate, or deliberately allowing it to happen around them.

Whilst the Jew hatred over the last 40 years hasn’t changed, Israel certainly has. In the 1970’s Israel was still in need of assistance from the diaspora. Oranges were still a major export and it needed a larger population to make the economy grow. That has radically changed and for some years now, Israel has been a major exporter of IT and pharmaceuticals. Most recently, despite the best efforts of the blood-libel merchants, Israel has been a leader in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.

This success is reflected in Israel being on the green list for international travel when at the time of writing no European country can be visited without multiple tests and a period of quarantine.

Supporting Israel needs to be more than just fighting back against the Jew haters who wish to see the Jewish state destroyed.

It means promoting Israel to the wider community. Sadly, so much of the effort recently has gone into defence when in reality, despite the noise produced, the bulk of the population are not interested.

They are far more likely to be engaged with a positive message.

Three years ago, the Zionist Central Council in Manchester hosted Sivan Ya’ari, the CEO of Innovation: Africa, an Israeli organisation devoted to bringing solar technology to ordinary people across Africa. The results have been fantastic, with over a million people now able to generate electricity to power medical centres and schools. In addition, using the electricity means that clean water can be pumped from the aquifers so that both boys and girls can attend school and not spend their time collecting the essential for their living.

What Innovation: Africa demonstrated to us was that whilst all the fighting and shouting is going on, Israel and Israelis are working hard to improve people’s lives. The response from those outside the Jewish Community demonstrated how much respect this work generated

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Supporting Israel needs to be more than just fighting back against the Jew haters who wish to see the Jewish state destroyed.

and the capacity to form positive relationships. These schemes are very much long term and whilst they don’t carry with them the immediacy or adrenaline associated with rallies or demonstrations, they are the key to success in placing Israel as a country which has so much to offer rather than the constant reference to war and conflict.

Over the next few months, the Zionist Central Council in Manchester in association with the Zionist Federation nationally will be putting together projects highlighting the technological and medical advancements achieved as a result of Israeli investment. The plan is to bring these to the attention of everyone, not just those living in North London, Essex or Manchester. The benefits extend beyond just spreading the word about Israeli innovation, since if adopted, the advancements can and do make meaningful changes to lives.

The attacks on Israel continue, and are hard to ignore when under pressure. The promotion of what Israel has achieved and what she can offer is just as important and the impact will last so much longer than the smell of the output of the camel.

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.

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24 JUNE 2021

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24 JUNE 2021

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Itai inspires youngsters at JNF festival which was fantastic,” Chammah noted.

“They were respectful and respected the medium of theatre. I could see they were excited and curious. They gave great feedback so you know it’s working. And some questions were surprising. One pupil asked if I preferred swimming to acting. I told them that I need another decade to decide as I swam for over 20 years! Another pupil said there are famous people that drop out of school so why study if you had a dream.

I told them that you only hear about celebrities who make it not all the many people who drop out and get attracted to bad things like crime so don’t do as well. Studies are really important.”

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely and Board of Deputies President Marie van de Zyl attended a performance.

“Initiatives such as these are a wonderful celebration of the beauty and vitality of Ivrit,” commented Ambassador Hotovely. “It is so important that young British Jews love the Hebrew language as the language of our ancestors, as the language of our prayer. Hebrew connects us to our heritage and history and reminds us we are one people, with one shared homeland. I’ve enjoyed meeting the

brilliant and engaged children, they were an amazing unusual audience.”

JNF UK chairman, Samuel Hayek, said the festival has become a mainstay of the Jewish educational calendar in three years by conneting pupils with Hebrew as part of a wider mission of strengthening a relationship between young British Jews and Israel. Jewish heritage is also fun and stimulating.

“We are proud that the festival will support our wonderful teachers who are working extra-hard after the difficult past year,” noted Hayek. “British Jewry have always had a strong relationship with Israel and JNF UK is honoured to help strengthen that relationship.”

The festival comes at a time when Hebrew teaching in schools has been set back due to the pandemic.

For most schools, the plays are the first large events they have hosted since early 2020.

To keep audiences safe, each performance uses cutting-edge technology that enable an actor in England to interact live with pre-recorded actors performing in Israel, who will be displayed via digital screens.

Itai Chummah’s life story was a hit

BY DAVID SAFFER Itai Channah has turned his remarkable 2008 Olympic swimming journey into a play and is inspiring youngsters at Jewish schools.

His autobiographique play ‘Me and the Lane’ has been a smash hit among pupils transfixed by his tale.

Chammah achieved his childhood dream of representing Israel at an Olympics and his real-life tale in becoming an actor after his swimming feats is part of a JNF festival touring 20 venues, including JW3, schools and nurseries across the country including Manchester.

The festival, now in its third year, features three plays by renowned Israeli Hour Theatre, each one tailored to a different age range. There are 49 performances of the Hebrew-language plays.

This year includes Hebrew-language versions of children’s stories The Ugly Duckling and Pinocchio.

The third play is by Chammah and he has been thrilled how it’s been received.

Taking time out of his busy schedule, Chammah commented, “I’ve been used to Israeli kids so this is different and the shows have been amazing. The British kids respond incredibly. After the show I do a Q&A session and they have asked the most interesting questions. It’s really exciting.”

He added, “I was not sure how the play

would translate but it’s been a great experience. I’m honoured to share my journey with here and don’t what it to end!”

So, what does Chummah want pupils to get out of the play?

“What is special is that the play is about an actual person. After questions, I tell the pupils that it does not matter what people tell you, you can make your dream come true if you believe in yourself and work hard.

There is no dream big enough that you cannot achieve. But it important to also encourage kids to study hard, because sometimes dreams change or you decide to study something else.”

Chammah was determined to make his dream a reality.

“When I was young, people I knew asked me why I kept swimming because I was not in the top 10 of my age group, but I made it to the Olympics so anything is possible,” he recalled.

This is the first time Chammah has taken the play abroad.

“It was meant to come out a couple of years ago, but was cancelled due to Covid-19,” he explained. “After the the UK tour, I’d love to take the show to the United States, that would be really interesting to do.”

How have UK pupils reacted when watching the play?

“One of the teachers told me they were focused in their seats the entire 55 minutes,

Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl meets JFS pupils

Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely was among dignitaries at the festival

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20 COMMUNITY

Children at the Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Kindergarten had fun learning about Italy.

They held an Italy Day with a teacher from the main school visiting to speak Italian with them.

Exploring pasta on Italy Day

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL.

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24 JUNE 2021

PaJes holds ‘Everyone’s Invited’ platform PaJeS held an informative evening following publicity around the ‘Everyone’s Invited’ platform.

Presenters included Ilana Hutchinson, Education Manager at Jewish Women’s Aid and Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers with support from Reshet.

Around 170 families attended the event.

The gathering began with young people sharing experiences of growing up and calling for a culture change requiring everyone to contribute. Parents need to lead change by setting standards and countering messages children receive from social media.

The ‘Everyone’s invited’ website has shown a silent majority will call out unacceptable behaviour.

A partnership between parents, children and school is needed to move forward.

Ms Hutchinson gave a presentation exploring roots of sexual violence and offered advice on how parents can talk to children about consent.

Explaining how harmful ideas and attitudes can lead to behaviours which could, if they go unchecked, lead to violence, Ms Hutchinson spoke about how young people are surrounded by mixed messages regarding healthy

Rabbi David Meyer

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relationships and consent.

Parents have a huge role to play to support children.

The JWA expert called on parents to make themselves available to hear children and provide opportunities to talk to create a consent culture within the community.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers and Detective Constable Phil Maunders gave a presentation highlighting legal ramifications of behaviours and an importance to reach out for help.

A key message of ‘safeguarding is everyone’s business’ reinforced the importance of everyone taking responsibility.

Rabbi David Meyer, Executive Director of PaJeS said, “This was an exceptionally important evening that enabled us to raise some critical but rarely discussed topics with parents.

“This is not a school specific issue but a challenge facing the whole community. It is only by working together that we can counter the culture that allows and even supports unacceptable behaviour.”

He added, “It is our duty to ensure our society values the rights of the individual and creates an environment where we all can feel safe, protected and respected.”

22 COMMUNITY

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New Leeds Dayan appointed Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Dayan Menachem Gelley, Rosh Beth Din of the London Beth Din, have appointed Rabbi Shalom Kupperman as new head of the Leeds Beth Din. He succeeds Dayan Yehudah Refson who passed away last year.

Rabbi Kupperman leads Etz Chaim Synagogue in Leeds, in addition to Rabbinic duties, he is a qualified therapist with a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy and Counselling.

Chief Rabbi Mirvis noted, “He brings to the role many years of experience, learning, warmth and humility. I wish him blessing and success in all his endeavours for and on behalf of the Leeds community.”

Dayan Gelley described Rabbi Kupperman as a Talmid Chacham and his appointment would take the Leeds community to higher levels.

“He has a unique blend of first-degree Torah scholarship, humility, wisdom and compassion, all of which will serve him well in his new role.”

Rabbi Shalom Kupperman noted the Leeds Beth Din was renowned for its great Torah personalities.

“I had the merit to know the late Dayan Refson who was my teacher and mentor and I hope to pay back my debt to him by continuing his, holy work, of preserving and developing the observance and practice of Torah in Leeds,” he said.

24 JUNE 2021

AJEX honours Jews in HM Armed Forces

Rabbi Shalom Kupperman The AJEX Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum

Rabbi Kupperman thanked the Etz Chaim congregation for encouraging him to accept the responsibility of serving in the Beth Din. “Together, we are going to make Leeds an attractive place to all Jews, from the most modern to the most observant,” he added. “The forthcoming construction of Leeds Eruv is a huge step in this direction.”

Rabbi Kupperman concluded that he was committed to upholding Torah life in Leeds.

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AJEX is holding a virtual tour of the National Memorial Arboretum and its annual commemoration service on Sunday (2pm).

The event during National Armed Forces week celebrates the contribution of Jewish Servicemen and women to HM Armed Forces.

AJEX hopes people of all ages will join on the day to remember those who have served and continue to serve in the British Armed Forces.

The NMA houses hundreds of memorials, including the National Jewish Military memorial.

Jewish participation in the UK military has existed for over 300 years and the NMA is an significant site for AJEX where they have their own memorial.

AJEX historian and education manager Paula Kitching will take viewers on a virtual tour of key memorials helping understand the history of Jewish participation in the British Military.

After the event there will be an additional film available on the AJEX You Tube channel showing more monuments.

“Part of the NMA’s important work is to pass on Remembrance from one generation to another,” noted Mike Bluestone, AJEX national chairman. “It is vital AJEX ensures there is a visual presence against those who

express and perpetuate antisemitic ideas and would dismiss our contribution or deny our equality. AJEX is committed, regardless of the recent challenges from the pandemic, to stand up for our past, present and future as a community, especially through the celebration of our participation in this country’s rich military heritage.”

This year, in addition to the usual ceremony, AJEX will be unveiling and inaugurating the new AJEX Standard, the first one for over 40 years.

Fiona Palmer, AJEX Chief Executive commented, “AJEX are passionate about continuing the legacy of the charity, handing on the baton of remembrance to future generations. This new Standard will be used for years to come and represents the start of a new chapter in AJEX’s future and objectives.”

AJEX Chaplain, Rabbi Major Reuben Livingstone, AJEX Deputy National Chairman S/Sgt Dan Fox, AJEX Vice Presidents Ron Shelley and Jeffrey Fox, and Captain Louis Trup will join the online ceremony AJEX launched a ‘Raise a Glass campaign’ at the start of the week in support of Jewish men and women who serve today.

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Helping Jewish charities in the current climate

BY ODELIA ZUCKER “Having worked in the charity sector for many years generating revenue through fundraising events and business development campaigns this recent year has been the most challenging.

With Brexit taking place at the beginning of the year many charities are now in the position of losing EU funding. There are also increasingly significant requests for government funding/grants and with over 160,000 registered charities in the UK the competition is fierce.

Many of the small Jewish charities have historically relied heavily for their existence on large live events such as fundraising dinners, seminars, networking events. However, since the lockdowns due to the Covid-19 global pandemic and with the gradual coming out of lockdowns, many of those charities are now struggling to exist.

And yet while online events replaced some face to face events, they do not produce the same fund raising results that the traditional live events produce, as demonstrated with charity sports events, adrenalin events and others.

Also many donors have become less interested due to “Zoom Fatigue “ of the online events due to the vast increase in the number of these events and the now familiar pattern and format of the event interactions.

Some small charities had to cut costs to survive, have let many of their full time

employees go and are making up the shortfall by working as volunteers, which makes the task of achieving fundraising targets even harder.

Our help is therefore vital to many charities’ survival as they navigate through the new world of the pandemic and its aftermath.

SO WHAT CAN BE DONE?

As we depend more on online functions for our engagement with others, utilising social media platforms can provide a virtual pathway to generate regular revenue to replace or compliment conventional live events.

Facebook charity fundraisers, Instagram live fundraisers can reach groups which can make a significant collective difference and using celebrations, such as announcements as a fundraising opportunity can do a lot to keep charities afloat.

Many of us have our chosen Jewish charities to support, however balancing our choices with smaller ones or ones we have yet to support could be more effective way to keep them going.

At these challenging times having a community spirit and working together is ever more important and has the potential to fill the gaps and shortfalls in charity funding, and yield very positive results.

And of course, being emphatic will enrich our own personal well-being in addition to keeping our charities solvent and active in our communities.”

Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Primary School held its year 3 Chumash party outdoors because of the pandemic with parents watching on.

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Jewish teenagers continue to reach out for support Jteen reached a milestone this week when they received its 700th request for help and support. An incredible 30,000 texts have been sent back and forth from teenagers and Jteen volunteer counsellors. Jteen was set up in February of this year to provide a text line for teens who have been reaching out for mental and emotional support and the demand for the service has been huge.

Jteen was founded by Yaakov Barr, accredited psychotherapist with tremendous support from Ari Leaman, director of the Boys Clubhouse. They, along with Trustees Avi Barr and Riki Greenberg envisioned Jteen as being a safe place where teens can anonymously reach out and receive support and guidance completely confidentially.

To cope with the demand, Jteen is already expanding and training a new cohort of over 35 volunteer counsellors. Its services are in demand throughout the UK and beyond. Clinical supervisors and specialists in safeguarding are always on hand to ensure texts are being answered suitably and safely. A team of local rabbonim

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Yaakov Barr

and rebetsins are available to answer any hashkofic questions that arise and qualified therapists provide phone therapy if required.

Rabbi S. F. Zimmerman, Av Beis Din of

the Federation, is one of the leaders of the Jteen Rabinic advisory board. He reflected on it’s progress since its inception.

“JTeens initial uptake has far exceeded expectations which only underscores the great need for this service.” Rabbi Zimmerman has also trained the Jteen volunteer counsellors in some areas of complex hashkofa.

So far teens have reached out and shared their struggles on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, relationships, depression, addiction, social anxiety and some hashkafic questions to name but a few. One teen texted in to thank her Jteen counsellor for giving her “excellent tools which I am getting really good at using, and now I feel like a different person.”

The success of Jteen has meant that many teens are contacting the service more than just once.

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support teens emotionally through difficult times, and this has been borne out.

In the first four months, a massive 74% of callers felt helped and supported after contacting the service. One teen left a message stating “I was actually a bit nervous about contacting a real organisation, but you are so accepting and understanding I can’t thank you enough for giving me so much time especially on erev Yom Tov.” Another teen let us know that “even though you could not help me directly, knowing there are people who care about what teenagers are going through gives me strength”.

Yaakov Barr has been blown away by the overwhelmingly positive and supportive response across the country by schools and Rabbonim. “The incredible demand for JTeen has shown us just how much teens require emotional support, especially during the challenging times we are currently in. With the continued support of the schools and community we hope to continue encouraging teens that its ok to not feel ok and that Jteen is there for them.”

Jteen is currently running a campaign on loneliness which is resonating with many teens.

Jteen intends to continue to run parent events as well as improving the mental health education in schools. Former head of Childline-NSPCC, John Cameron OBE and one of Jteens consultants was effusive in his praise for Jteen and its need especially during the last few months. “During the Covid 19 pandemic, children need, more than ever, a reliable service that understands the many worries young people are facing. With continued support JTeen have exciting plans to develop its range of therapeutic services and increase its reach which will enhance the help they provide to children with concerns.”

Salford City Councillor Ari Leitner, Kersal and Broughton Park Ward ,with boxes of kichels at the Hatzola Manchester and Salford City Council Pfizer Vaccination event at Beis Yaakov High School.

Salford Councillor Ari Leitner

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30 COMMUNITY

24 JUNE 2021

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‘Head Room To Go’ Launch out to the community is a huge opportunity for people to feel connected and approach mental health support.”

Thanks to the generosity of The Locker Foundation, we were able convert an electric milk float into a mobile café, mobilising Head Room Café to go out into the community while embodying the sustainability objectives of all of Jami’s social enterprises.

Head Room To Go will deliver a kosher take-away food and drinks menu alongside information about our community mental health programme and how to access Jami services.

Malcolm Carter and Susie Segal, Trustees of the Locker Foundation, officially launched Head Room To Go at Jami’s Edgware Hub on Thursday 17th June, in honour of their late father, renowned philanthropist Irving Carter. They said, “Jami has never been more important. Their work providing practical and emotional support for the mental health of our community is truly inspiring. We are absolutely delighted to be able to support this exciting initiative.”

The ‘Head Room To Go’ mobile café

Jami, the Jewish Community’s mental health service, has launched a mobile Head Room Café – Head Room To Go. Head Room Café in Golders Green, part of Jami’s Social Enterprise, has been delivering accessible mental health support and reducing stigma and discrimination around mental illness for the past six years. So, when considering how best to reach people unable to visit the Café in a post-Covid world, we created the concept of Head Room To Go to reach even more.

At the start of the pandemic, we quickly identified that one of the most significant impacts of Covid would be on mental health, as a result of not only the physical health concerns, but also the effects of isolation, fear, uncertainty, grief and

loss. We needed to be able to continue to deliver life-saving mental health treatment and services to people already in Jami’s care while meeting the rapidly increasing demand of new referrals. We adapted our services online while also adapting a physical check in with those most isolated and vulnerable in our community, through meal deliveries and safe-distance doorstep chat programme.

Laurie Rackind, Jami Chief Executive said, “As we move toward resuming a more ‘normal’ pre-Covid lifestyle, it is clear that for people with mental health problems, being able to access treatment and support isn’t always straightforward or easy. And there are those people who continue to remain isolated. Being able to take the café

Head Room To Go will be available to book for specific location visits, including synagogues, schools, work venues and community centres. For more information visit www.headroomcafe.org or email headroomcafe@jamiuk.org

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Mashalla Hamin Fest Over nine hundred people in London took a turn back to their collective roots on Father’s Day by riding camels, ‘flying’ on a magic carpet, while eating many different types of Hamin and learning traditional middle eastern songs. The Fair was sponsored by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The fun was had in Enfield at the Mashalla Fair, The Hamin Fest run by Sephardi organisation Chazak, with Rabbi Moshe Levy saying the idea was to “bring all ages and levels of the community together to connect to their tradition and rich culture. Seeing our youth hear and learn our songs that have been passed down for hundreds of years was so special. So many haven’t heard of, let alone tasted Hamin it was truly a beautiful sight to see”.

Attendees experienced a real life Middle eastern Shuk, buzzing with energy, and an assortment of delights like freshly-made shwarma and pitta, while youngsters had the run of a

full sweet store and henna tattoos.

The adults tucked into an array of traditional types of Hamin including T’beet, Harisa, and Adafina.

Chazak’s Rabbi Yitsy David said: “We are a fully committed team of people who are passionate about continuing to enrich the Sephardi community and beyond with a full host of programs for all levels and stages.

We can’t thank the National Lottery Heritage Fund enough for enabling us to teach our children where we come from and which foods and music are essential to pass on to the next generation ”.

Edwin Shuker , former vice president of the Board of Deputies and a patron of Chazak brought three generations of his family to the event and said :” Chazak facilitated a fun day of celebration and reflection about a life that was, as well as a culture to preserve “.

PHOTOS: ELLIOT JACOBS PHOTOGRAPHY.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

24 JUNE 2021

Does your child complain of leg or joint pain, especially at night?

Has it been dismissed as ‘growing pains’?

Does your teen complain of neck or back pain?

These symptoms are typical of Hypermobility which is very common in the Jewish Community.

At The Green Clinic, we don’t have a ‘one size fits all’ approach.

We know that everybody and every lifestyle is different, and we tailor our recommendations and advice according to what works for YOU. Our Principal Physiotherapist Mr Stephen Parkus is an expert in treating hypermobility – a surprisingly common but often undiagnosed condition which can cause a child or teen to be clumsy, fidgety or

experience cramps when writing or neck pain when studying. We’ll take the time to properly assess your child and help you to understand the diagnosis. Through tailored exercises for strengthening, balance and co-ordination, we’ll assist your child to feel better and help them to move with confidence.

Stephen Parkus MCSP SRP is a state-registered Physiotherapist, qualified since 2001.

The Green Clinic is recognised by all major health insurance companies, and with flexible opening times and three clinic sites (Edgware, Bushey and Radlett), we are sure to be able to help you, whatever the issue. CALL US TODAY

Edgware & Bushey: 020 8728 0625 | Radlett: 01923 852 852

Expert Physiotherapy for the whole family We specialise in post-surgery rehabilitation, hypermobility, back pain, recovery from injuries, and arthritis.

Our expert Physiotherapists are: Stephen Parkus, Dana Frank and Judith Cohen.

Tel: 020 8728 0625 Home visits offered around NW London. Covered by all major UK health insurers.

Serving the community since 2008.

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34 FEATURE

24 JUNE 2021

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From the front line…

We must learn to live with alpha, beta, gamma, delta. And adapt!

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Over in California, Alberto Montemayor (34), a truck driver,has been arrested on suspicion of stealing 42,000 lb of pistachio nuts. Central California produces most of the country’s pistachios, almonds and walnuts, creating almost 50,000 jobs and over $5 bn (£3.6 bn) in economic value, but robbers have disrupted nut distribution since 2014 by posing as truck drivers to steal the product, then selling it off as their own. More than $7.6 million worth of nuts was squirreled away, and last August a 23 year old was arrested for stealing 2 trucks of pistachios, with a street value of $294,000. Local police were alerted, but they said it was a hard case to crack.

In China, couples are now permitted to have three children, following a decline in population growth. From 1979 couples were subject to the one-child policy, amended to a two-child policy from 2016.

Pregnant workers frequently complain that employers discriminate against them, often demoting them or cutting their salary, so it’s not clear if the population will increase without financial incentives.

Closer to home, the end of the line has finally arrived for Benjamin Netanyahu (71), after 12 years in power. A coalition cross-party government has been formed, initially to be led for two years by Naftali Bennett, leader of the Yamina party, thereafter the centrist leader Yair Lapid will be in the driver’s seat. Three of the coalition leaders were defectors from Likud, and consequently siphoned off support. This now concludes the array of inconclusive elections held in Israel since 2019. A massive put-down by Netanyahu showed an unfortunate lack of magnanimity, with him saying [Bennett] had neither sufficient ‘international standing, credibility, capability, knowledge nor governmental support to ensure a solid defence against Iran.’

Ra’am, an an Islamist party, which Bibi has maligned for years, will also be part of the coalition. Like Trump, Netanyahu showed a lack of generosity to others in his defeat.

Netanyahu nonetheless achieved much during his tenure, including making Jerusalem the Israeli capital (2017), continuing operations against Iran, expanding Israel’s military power, and making peace with several Arab states, including UAE. Unlike Bennett, Netanyahu was more cautious when considering military action and although he had a reputation for being a peacemaker, his own career was ultimately dogged by a trial for alleged corruption. It will be interesting to see if Bennett has the necessary gravitas to pull all sides of the coalition together.

In India a new variant of coronavirus has emerged: the Delta + . At least 22 samples of it have been discovered in Ratnagiri and Jalgaon, in the state of Maharashtra in

Jacqueline Curzon PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

Kerala, and in Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warned this could precipitate a third wave, in a country with already 500,000 deaths. It is causing concern in the UK, as it transpires that 41 cases of the Delta + have been found here.

In the latest chapter of political nonsense, Stonewall - the controversial LBGTQI charity - has called for teachers to drop the terms girls and boys, claiming it is both divisive and non-inclusive.

They claim the word ‘learner’ should be used instead. This comes on top of recent criticism for use of the terms woman and man. I’m sure I said this yonks ago, very soon I will not be allowed to define myself as a married woman, the mother of 4 girls and 3 boys. I will be a person with female body parts - real or acquired - in a formal, legal arrangement with a person with male body parts and between us we have 7 children, gender currently unspecified. I’m told there are over 150 different genders, so it would be interesting to hear what Adam and Eve might say on that one….

We are ultimately only a few steps away from being redefined as ‘it.’ At that point there’s nothing to offend or upset those with more fluid notions of their gender.

Or mine. One of my young friends who is in college has a female lecturer who insists on variously being called he, she or they, according to how she feels when she gets up in the morning. This is a tough ‘woke-up’ call for students to try and get right. One of Britain’s top girls’ schools has decided to dispense with the term Head Girl, as it is ‘too binary.’ Pupils at St Paul’s Girls School wanted a more inclusive title, and have settled on Head of School. This should give the Head Teacher pause for thought, as she must surely be considered the ultimate Head of School. One of their former alumni is Dame Kate Bingham, head of the UK Vaccine Task Force, and another alumni is Amanda Spielman, the current head of Ofsted, who was in favour of the school using ‘natural’ language, although it is unclear whether she included traditional terms within that terminology.

What, I wonder, is the woke protocol for a woman, who identifies as a male, or other, if they are being honoured by the Queen?

Are they entitled to insist they are called Mr, Lord or Sir? Should the Queen perhaps introduce an alternative title to appease those who feel the awards system is too binary? Or redefine the Empire medals so not to offend those who dislike imperialist references? I ask, only partly in jest….

There’s an expression ‘depends who you ask!’ The question which precedes it often starts with ‘can I,’ ‘must I,’ or ‘what would the Rabbi say?’ An alternative response might be, ‘if at first you don’t succeed - ask someone else!’ John Bercow seems to have taken this to heart. Having been humiliatingly passed over for his expected elevation to the House of Lords, he has now jumped ship to the Labour Party. Funny that, given many would have thought him a die hard Labour politician with all his interference whilst he was Speaker of the House.

Certainly his blatant disregard for fair and unbiased refereeing in the Commons left none in doubt as to his political bent. Now Mr Bercow (how he must hate being a mere Mr) is evidently hoping he will still be promoted, albeit belatedly, by Sir Keir Starmer.

As a politically unsophisticated individual I always considered his predecessor Betty Boothroyd a model of middos, and only twigged after her retirement that she was in fact a Labour MP. What a difference a positive personality makes.

Giorgia Meloni (44) has the makings of a good leader. Wouldn’t you agree? You do know she is tipped to become Italy’s first female prime minister!? No? Abandoned by her father and bullied by her peers for being fat, she became the leader of the hard-right Brothers of Italy party 4 years ago. Originally a minority (noch, fringe) party with <4% of the vote, they are now looking strong, and this could see a coalition in place should Mario Draghi resign as the incumbent PM. Interestingly Meloni is opposed to any further union with the EU, which she says has ‘tragically failed.’ In Germany the army has installed a rabbi as religious counsellor for the first time since 1918. Hungarian Zsolt Balla (42), a father of three, took up the post this week, and will officiate to the 300 serving Jewish soldiers. On a different battlefield the Euro 2021 match between England and Scotland proved a non-event, with a nil draw. Over 20,000 Scots fans however made the journey south to support their team, even though only around 3,000 had a ticket.

Such was the anti English sentiment being expressed on social media that Ms Sturgeon was forced to appeal for an end to racist singing, with Scots fans screaming that they hate the **** English. Now the FM must appreciate this is what you should expect if you cultivate hatred. Nicola Sturgeon’s most prominent internal critic, Joanne

Cherry, has recently quit the SNP National Executive Committee, claiming she was being prevented from fulfilling her mandate to improve transparency and scrutiny.

This followed the party treasurer, Douglas Chapman, who also resigned, claiming he was not allowed access to information sufficient to do his job. John Swinney, the deputy FM, denied claims that the police were investigating a shortfall of £600,000 in party funds, and several officials resigned a few months ago, over the refusal of Peter Murrell (SNP Chief Executive and Sturgeon’s husband) to show the full accounts.

Ms Sturgeon was likely further incensed to hear Michael Gove speculate that there will be no referendum until 2024, a comment which doubtless went down like a house of cards. All is not so cheery in the House of Holyrood.

Sacha Dench, known as the ‘human swan’ for her daring adventure following the migratory routes of swans in a paramotor from the Russian Arctic to the UK, is undertaking yet another ground-breaking expedition. The Round Britain Climate Challenge will see her circumnavigate Britain using an electric paramotor. Her journey is expected to take six weeks and will see Sacha flying around our coastlines and landing to talk to some of Britain’s most inspiring individuals and communities.

She plans to end the journey in Glasgow to coincide with the Cop26 Climate Talks.

Good luck Sacha. From paramotors to scooters now. Further casualties involving e-scooters have unfortunately made the news; Shakur Pinnock (20) was hit by a VW Golf, with his girlfriend riding pillion.

She was seriously injured, and his death comes two years after TV presenter Emma Hartridge (35) died in an e-scooter accident with a lorry. In Northumbria a man of 55 is in critical condition after falling behind the group of 12 riders he was with. It is believed he collided with a vehicle and was not wearing a helmet. Let’s say it again, e-scooters are illegal and should not be ridden on public roads or pavements. If you must take one out, at least wear a suitable helmet.

As a long-time supporter and fundraiser for Jami and to celebrate her 81st birthday, my amazing friend Sarah Schiller will be walking 101 miles this summer. A news item will be included shortly, but in the interim please refer to the following link to donate and support Jami. https://jamiuk. org/donate/fundraising.

And now, the end of the academic year creeps slowly into sight, with the mirage of good weather and summer fun. Travel will become the eighth wonder of the world, and all being well, a journey east might even be on the расписание уроков (agenda).

Watch this space….

Love Jacqueline x

https://www.gofundme.com/f/jacqueline039s-front-line-cancer-battle-fund THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

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24 JUNE 2021

Mini Chickpea Cakes

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

Combine chickpeas, spring onions and breadcrumbs to make these delicious vegetarian nibbles that are ideal for parties or buffets. Roll into balls and flatten before cooking.

These middle eastern style recipe makes plenty – any leftovers will freeze for another time.

Spices of paprika and ground cumin gives these vegetarian treats an extra kick that is just delicious.

Serve with a creamy Greek yogurt-based dip for a tasty finish in a basket so people can help themselves. They also make the ideal starter or lunchbox filler.

Preparation Time: 40 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Makes: Approx 50 Ingredients 1 tablespoon rapeseed oil 2 onions peeled and chopped 4 garlic cloves, skinned and finely chopped 2 x 400g tins chickpeas, rinsed and drained 4 spring onions, trimmed and chopped 8 tablespoons breadcrumbs 150g plain flour 6 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped 2 tablespoons ground cumin 2 tablespoons paprika Salt and pepper 6 tablespoons polenta ~ Rapeseed for frying Garnish: Sprigs of parsley 150ml Yoghurt and 2 tablespoons harissa paste to serve

Vegetarian Grazing Boards

BY DENISE PHILLIPS We are fast approaching the ‘Three Weeks’, the time between 17 Tammuz and 9 Av, this year corresponding to Sunday 27 June to Sunday 18 July, a time in the Hebrew calendar where Jews around the world mourn the destruction of the First and Second Temples. It is customary to have no music, no weddings, no haircuts, and many people refrain from buying anything new during this period.

Furthermore, some Jewish people follow a vegetarian diet at this time, especially during the last 9 days from the 1st to the 9th Av. Grazing boards are the latest trend in eating which combines all your favourite nibbles arranged on a large platter to share.

It is the modern version of an embellished cheese board! Keeping it vegetarian or even vegan is a wonderful way to adhere to this custom.

TIPS FOR GRAZING BOARDS

• Choose a board, large plate, tray to reflect the number of guests.

• Check guest’s food intolerances and keep separate so it is suitable for everyone • Include a variety of dips, crackers,

bread, pita or bread sticks.

• Add seasonal fruits like berries, grapes with no pips or stones – no one wants an unexpected trip to the dentist!

• Keep your fruit and vegetables looking natural for example cherry tomatoes on the vine, grapes on their branches and radishes with their stalks. They look more like how Mother Nature made them!

• If you decide to use fruit or vegetables that oxidise quickly, (go brown) for example sliced pear or apple, dip into a little lemon juice to preserve.

• Use small bowls or ramekins for nuts, olives and chutneys • Grazing boards can include miniature foods of all varieties; artichoke hearts, mini tacos, mini wraps, falafels, samosas, borekas, • Fill any gaps with fresh bay leaves, rosemary sprigs to decorate.

• Provide colour and texture with different raw and cooked vegetables that are also easy to pick up and eat. Deli items like olives, stuffed peppers are great and work well, but they may need cocktail sticks, toothpicks, and napkins to make them less awkward to eat.

• Always supply a small plate or dish for rubbish – your guests need somewhere to put their used toothpicks etc.

And since you can you use whatever you like don’t worry about a recipe. People are eating and enjoying with their eyes -just make it interesting, colourful and adventurous.

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Method - For the Base 1. Fry onion in oil for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, fry for 1 minute.

Put in a food processor with chickpeas, spring onions, breadcrumbs, flour, coriander, cumin, paprika, a little salt and pepper. Whizz to a coarse paste.

2. Divide mixture into balls, then flatten to make cakes. Dip cakes into polenta to coat them. Fry in 2 batches in a little oil, for 2-3 mins each or cook in a deep fat fryer.

3. Serve with a dip made from Greek yogurt and harissa paste.

‫בס”ד‬

LEAVE YOUR

HOLIDAYTO US! COOKING Enjoy your summer holiday free from any cooking headaches with delicious gourmet meals prepared in advance!

Get in touch for our full Holiday menu

By:

Efrayim Shloime Goldstein & Moishe Yoisef Goldstein

020 8801 1999

+4420 880 11999

info@goldsteincaterers.com

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Holiday Adventures

24 JUNE 2021

How to Keep Your Sanity!

BY CARON BLUESTONE Whilst we adjust yet again to our new normal, can we go to Israel this year? Is it even worth leaving the UK? Why is it all so complicated?! Here are a couple of recommendations that should hopefully help pass the time at home.

The first is an activity in which the whole family can partake. We’ve been doing it for years, it’s especially good on shabbos and now more so than ever, is an environmentally friendly activity that boosts health and wellbeing. I’m talking about walking. Since we’ve been almost housebound except for exercise over the past year, we have found a new joy for and discovered the previously undiscovered on our doorstep.

A beautiful three mile walk along Dollis Valley in Finchley, past beautiful allotments, along the brook proper, under canopies of towering trees, with a park thrown in for good measure. I’ve been told that just 30 minutes walk a day is the same as taking an antidepressant. By a psychiatrist, no less. As a family, we’ve walked through the seasons and in all weathers. Each has its own pleasures.

Even walking in the rain, which for me brings such satisfaction. So, the three mile walk takes around an hour, give or take, bearing in mind that we stop for refreshments and include in our group, a five year old who mostly scoots.

If you walk at pace and regularly, it’s important to wear the correct gear. Footwear can add value or slow you down. When walking in the winter, through mud and rain, you need grip, plus water-proof. I headed to Berghaus for a coat and boots.

Kit that would see us through all conditions. With over 50 year’s experience in outdoor clothing and equipment, it’s your go-to brand. Not super-cheap but built to last and to perform. My totally waterproof coat, with a capped hood to keep out the rain, is extremely light, yet warm. I walked warm, in temperatures close to freezing with only one layer below but conversely don’t overheat either in warmer weather.

It’s also pretty stylish so I’m happy to wear it for general use too! www.berghaus.com/ With summer upon and staycations appealing more and more, one thing that we can be certain of is the unpredictable British weather. Many UK destinations will feature lots of outdoor activities from walking to climbing to rambling. It’s worth spending that little extra on quality attire. Layering is key, as we can see three seasons in one day here. Beautifully designed baselayers, compact yet clever

to enjoy his days with!

Camp Beaumont is truly versatile and caters for 3-16 year olds. There’s a reason why it’s been around all this time.

They really do know how to offer good childcare during school holidays. With over 20 locations in and around London, there truly is something for everyone.

Their prices are reasonable, the staff are young, full of energy and enthusiasm and the choice of camp activities offers something for every taste and age. Importantly all camps are OFSTED registered and from my own experience, they do provide a high level of care. Despite the many children that arrive daily at the Mill Hill camp, you still feel an individual level of care and attention. Staff know the children, are visible and around to talk to whenever needed. Communication is really key during these unprecedented covid times and it’s comforting to know that the camp staff are always there at the end of a phone, throughout the day for any changes to the daily schedule, should you need. Camp Beaumont is a true lifesaver. Send kids in a group of their peers and they come home happy, tired and even inspired! www.campbeaumont.co.uk

LASTLY FOR THOSE PREPARING TO TRAVEL…

Walking in Dollis Valley

rucksacks and truly innovative trousers all feature heavily in the summer collection.

SUMMER CAMP?

Whilst we await the next announcements on foreign travel. Will anywhere enticing be added to this ridiculous green list?

Can anyone actually afford the testing for orange and red, well they are just for urgent unavoidable trips. Paying through the nose to be imprisoned for ten days in a Premier Inn is just that! Destinations, with varying degrees of no quarantine, to managed hotel quarantine, depending on the covid risk profile, families may want to look in some fun for the kids at a day camp. Frazzled parents, working parents,

any parents, need holiday activities to keep the little ones busy. I, for one, can’t officiate day-long battles between siblings, or sit by as my eldest stays glued to an Ipad. Children need fresh air, fun and more so now than ever before, a chance to socialise with their peers.

In the extended Easter holidays, I got my freedom back from Camp Beaumont.

Tried and tested, it’s 41 years old this year (I remember attending with my best friend, Karen, many moons ago!) and despite its size, has offered a secure, safe, covid-free environment for my 5 year old. Even better, our local camp is at his school, thus providing that added level of familiarity, along with half his classmates

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For pre-departure testing I’m recommending Collinson. They are the UK’s leading Covid-19 travel testing provider and government approved for mandatory and test to release PCR tests. This makes a huge difference, as they work with a large network of labs, they’re able to process at scale. They have testing centres at Heathrow Terminals 2 and 5, Stansted, City, Luton , Manchester and East Midlands airports, as well as APH Gatwick and the 02 Arena. PCR tests take between 24-48 hours to process and the rules at this moment ask for a valid test within 72 hours of travel. The process is quick and easy and you don’t even need to leave your car with results sent via email, ready to show at the airport. Collinson also offers the full gamut of other Covid-19 tests including same day test to release LAMP tests (before midnight for appointments up to 4pm), Antigen and Antibody too.

‫בס”ד‬

Weekday Menu Enjoy your summer holiday free from any cooking headaches with delicious gourmet meals prepared in advance!

Soups (1 litre container) Side Dish (1 litre container) Chicken Soup....................................... £7.00 Roast Potatoes.................................... £7.50 · · Vegetable Soup.................................. £6.50 Mashed Potatoes.............................. £7.50 · · · · Split Pea Soup..................................... £6.50 Peas............................................................... £7.50 · · Bean Soup............................................... £6.50 Rice................................................................. £7.50 · · Barley Soup............................................ £6.50 Green Beans.......................................... £7.50 · · Courgette & leak Soup................ £6.50 Chips............................................................. £7.50 · · Tomato Soup........................................ £6.50 Sweet Corn............................................. £7.50 · · Minestrone Soup (Chefs Special).......... £7.00 Farfel............................................................. £7.50 · Hawaiian Carrots.............................. £7.50 · Main Dish (2 servings per pack) Petitim......................................................... £7.50 Special Sliced Soft Meat (Chefs ......... £27.50 Red Cabbage......................................... £7.50 · · - 2 Slices) · · Lamb Chops (2 per portion).................. £23.00 Spaghetti................................................... £7.50 · · Sweet & Sour Chicken.............. £15.00 Baby Mushrooms.............................. £7.50 · · Stuffed Chicken with Kishka.... £13.00 Pasta Shells............................................ £7.50 · · Grilled Pargiyot................................ £13.00 Sauerkraut............................................... £7.50 · · Meat Balls............................................... £9.00 Potato Wedges................................... £9.00 · Schnitzel................................................ £13.00 Sweet Potato........................................ £9.00 · · Beef Goulash..................................... £15.00 Grilled Vegetables........................ £10.00 · · Chicken Wings (4/5 units per portion).... £11.00 · Beef Burgers (2 units per portion).......... £12.00 Desserts (1 litre container) · · Shepherds Pie................................... £12.00 Apple slices............................................ £7.50 · · Fish Cakes........................................... £12.00 Pear slices............................................... £7.50 · · Grilled Salmon.................................. £14.00 Apple Pureed......................................... £7.50 · · Baked Sea Bass.............................. £14.00 Fruit Cocktail........................................ £7.50 · · Fried Fish.............................................. £14.00 Fruit Punch............................................. £7.50 Sauce · Vegetarian Cutlet............................ £8.00 Apple Crumble with Custard .............. £7.50 (2 units) · with Chocolate Sauce Chocolate cake ........... £7.50 · (2 units) Some items will be delivered frozen.

All foods are packed in oven ready containers excluding soups and desserts.

Free delivery on orders over £120.

Orders should be placed by Thursday 8th July 2021. Delivered on 14th & 15th July.

Please let us know if you have any special dietary requests.

By:

Efrayim Shloime Goldstein & Moishe Yoisef Goldstein

020 8801 1999

Name: Number: Email: Delivery Address:

+4420 880 11999

info@goldsteincaterers.com

ASK THE RABBI

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com PREGNANT AT A FUNERAL Dear Rabbi Please could you tell me the rules of attending a funeral whilst heavily pregnant?

Jacquie Dear Jacquie It is popular misconception to assume that a woman should not attend a funeral while pregnant (whether heavily or slightly). The suggested reason given is that she should not be in a place of cessation of life whilst she is carrying new life. This follows the reasoning for not wearing one’s tzitzit out for example when in a cemetery as it is said this causes distress to the deceased who are unable to perform mitzvoth any more. But whilst the latter has a basis for it in Jewish law, the idea of a pregnant woman not attending a funeral has no source, and is indeed purely myth. If you feel the need to attend, by all means do so.

CAN I BE BURIED WITH MY TATTOO? Dear Rabbi, I am considering getting a tattoo and was discussing this with my family over dinner. At which point my brother-in-law turned to me and said I would not be allowed to be buried in a Jewish cemetery if I had one. I am a reform Jew and was wondering if this rule would apply and if it is even true.

Alexis Dear Alexis The law that makes tattoos taboo

for Jews is Leviticus 19:28, which states: “You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves: I am the Lord.” Cutting of the flesh and tattooing was associated with idolatrous usages among the Canaanites. Moreover, Judaism has always seen our bodies as a gift from G-d. You should use your body as a house for your soul. It’s given to us on loan, and if you lease a car, you try to keep it in good shape for return. We should treat the body well and keep it in as good shape as possible. That’s part of the philosophical idea of it.

But while Jewish Law forbids permanent tattoos, having one does not disqualify a Jew from being buried among his/her people. Jewish mothers spread the rumour back in the day because they wanted to encourage their kids to look more Jewish and less biker. (No disrespect to bikers intended). Let the beauty of your soul be the example people will see and not a skull and bones, or even a heart with “mom” written inside.

WILL THE REAL JEW PLEASE STAND UP? Dear Rabbi I would like to know why some orthodox Jews persistently talk patronisingly about other forms of Judaism such as reform and liberal. I myself am a teenager unsure of where my allegiances lie as of yet and want to understand more about the reasons there is seemingly mistrust and competition between people who are all essentially Jewish (obvi-

Pirkei Avot This weeks Mishnah continues with more prophetic words from last weeks author Reb Chanina ben Dosa.

‘Anyone whose good deeds exceeds his wisdom, his wisdom will endure. But anyone whose wisdom exceeds his good deeds, his wisdom will not endure.’

There are many people who are extremely clever and can quickly and easily grasp difficult concepts without much effort.

Then there are people who do put effort into learning Torah but only concentrate on intellectual matters without much concern

ously you may feel differently about what kind of convert is “Jewish”, but leaving that aside).

Derek Dear Derek Let me begin by saying that you are absolutely right. A Jew is a Jew is a Jew. Hitler did not discriminate and neither should we. However there are two key points to consider: First, a distinction has to be made between individuals and organisations.

Whilst I have an obligation to respect every individual Jew, in accordance with the biblical obligation of ‘love every Jew as yourself’ that does not mean that I have to recognise another ‘organisation’ which runs counter to my own. There is no way that I, as an orthodox Jew could possible recognise reform Judaism as a legitimate expression of the faith, just as it is impossible for any reform clergy to recognise orthodoxy as a legitimate representation of the faith.

Second, as I have written here before, the divisiveness really escalated when a new brand of conversion was entered into the Jewish faith. Whilst there was always one strand of Jew (irrespective of synagogue affiliation) the fact that different forms of conversion was allowed, means that the bigger question of ‘who is a Jew’ inevitably emerged. It should be noted, that the reform rabbis who initiated the reform conversion process (in America) recognised the error of their ways in the obvious schism this would cause and published articles in national broadsheets urging the movement to retract and keep only the ‘highest

In memory of Esther bat Yaakov Moshe for basic middot. Some of these people become rabbinic leaders, or even Dayanim.

However sadly it won’t last if it is not real.

They say that one should learn Torah even if not for the sake of heaven, lishmah, so that it will in time turn in to lishmah, however that is true only if there no middot flaws that are ignored. If basic ‘bein adam lachavero’ - man-to-man behaviour is ignored, then there will come a time when the person will fall and all his learning will be in vain. There are stories of past Cohen Gadols who became sadducees after

common denominator’ for conversion (i.e. orthodoxy) so as to maintain harmony in the Jewish world. Alas, the rest of history speaks for itself. I suggest to you that as a Jew you should transcend the politics and focus on finding meaning within your faith. Attend some Torah classes and find your way.

EUTHANIZING OUR DOG Dear Rabbi Our dog is now becoming old and has some serious health problems. The vet has advised us to consider euthanasia to prevent further suffering. What is the halachic view on this distressing situation?

Anthony Dear Anthony There is an obvious distinction to be made between euthanasia

of people and that of animals.

Jewish law forbids euthanasia in all forms, and is considered an act of homicide. The life of a person is not “his” - rather, it belongs to the One Who granted that life. It may be therefore be reclaimed only by the true Owner of that life. Despite one’s noble intentions, an act of mercy-killing is flagrant intervention into a domain that transcends this world.

An animal on the other hand is in fact your possession. The prohibition against causing pain to animals is a serious one, and is treated as such by Jewish Law, which not only forbids man from causing pain to animals, but also bids him to help relieve the pain of animals. In general therefore, euthanasia for animals should only be when the animal is dying and in pain. Of course every effort must be made to make the process painless.

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

Perek 3: Mishna 10

many years. For those who do daf hayomi, we learnt in this weeks daf of the Cohen Gadol who came out alive after the Yom Kippur Avodah, proving what a great Tzadik he must have been. (R Eli Stefanski - Mercaz daf yomi.com) However he was really rude to the leaders of his generation Shemayah and Avtalyon virtually as soon as he came out of the kodesh hakodoshim and was ultimately punished. No matter how high a level we are on, me must as pirkei avot teaches us; never judge ourselves until the day of our death.

Shabbos Menu

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Kugel (1 litre container) Fish (2 servings per pack) Potato Kugel......................................... £8.00 Poached Salmon............................ £12.00 · · Vegetable Kugel.............................. £12.00 Stuffed Carp....................................... £14.00 · · · · Yapchik..................................................... £14.00 Moroccan Salmon......................... £12.00 · · Apple Kugel............................................ £9.00 Salmon Gefilte.................................... £4.00 · · Sweet Lokshen Kugel................... £8.00 White Gefilte......................................... £4.50 · Yerushalemi Kugel.......................... £8.00 Soups (1 litre container) Salads (250g container) · Chicken Soup....................................... £7.00 · Potato Salad.......................................... £3.00 · Vegetable Soup.................................. £6.50 · Cucumber Salad............................... £3.00 · Kneidlech (8 pcs)............................... £4.00 Colslaw Salad...................................... £3.00 · Tehinna...................................................... £3.40 · Main Dish (2 servings per pack) Tomato Dip............................................. £3.00 · · Roast Chicken Leg........................ £13.00 · Olive Dip.................................................... £3.00 · Grilled Pargiyot................................ £13.00 · Jalepeno Dip (Hot)................................... £3.00 · Schnitzel................................................. £13.00 · Baba Ganush Dip.............................. £3.40 · Stuffed Chicken with Kishka.... £13.00 Chrayne 250g (Extra Strong).................. £3.00 · · Salt Beef................................................. £15.00 · Tongue with Mandarin sauce.. £25.00 Other Items · Vegetarian Cutlet............................. £8.00 Cholent 1 litre container............. £9.50 · · Gala 250g container.......................................... £4.50 Cholipshes (stuffed cabbage 2 pieces)........ £12.00 · Chopped liver 250g container.................. £4.50 · Liver Blintz (with Mushroom Sauce)............. £7.00 Side Dishes (1 litre container) · Roast Potatoes.................................... £7.50 Potato Blintz (with Mushroon Sauce).......... £6.00 · · Farfel............................................................. £7.50 Chick peas (250g container)....................... £2.20 · · · Butter Beans (250g container)................. £2.50 Rice................................................................. £7.50 · · Tzimmes ................................................. £9.00 Drinks & Challas · Courgettes in Tomato sauce... £9.00 Grape Juice 1 litre............................. £4.00 · · Red Cabbage........................................ £9.00 Large Challa.......................................... £4.00 · · Grilled Vegetables........................ £10.00 Mini Challa............................................... £1.50 · Some items will be delivered frozen.

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Balak: Why Do We Hate?

What Can We Do About It?

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN The enemy is at the doorstep. The Jewish people are about to enter the promised land and establish the kingdom of G-d. Hastily, King Balak of Moav and his sworn enemy Bilam, the Midyanite prophet, conspire to halt the Jewish “ invasion”. Recognizing that military efforts are pointless, Balak enlists the assistance of a super-prophet who wields psychic powers and can impose a supernatural spell upon the people of G-d.

Bilam desperately attempts to curse the Jews but fails three times. After three botched attempts he doesn’t even attempt to curse the Jews, but instead, delivers Messinic prophecies. There is a noticeable difference between his first two failures and his final failure. Bilam’s first two fiascos begin with his acknowledgement that he doesn’t actually enjoy prophetic autonomy.

Prophets, especially a moral reprobate like himself, are just mouthpieces for Divine communication. As Bilam cannot operate or even schedule his prophecy, his hopes of opposing Hashem’s interests are futile. The hilarious scene with his donkey parodies his inadequacies. Bilam, the great visionary prophet cannot even discern the angelic visitor so apparent to his donkey. Only G-d will determine what he sees, who will be blessed and who will be cursed and Bilam is powerless to influence these decisions.

The third failed curse has a very different feel to it. Bilam gazes at the tranquil scene of Jewish families living serenely in harsh desert conditions, and his malice is converted into sympathy. This last inversion of potential curses into blessings isn’t attributed to G-d’s control over Bilam’s prophecy. This “shift” is more a function of Bilam’s hatred of the Jews being transformed into admiration and respect. Initially, Bilam assumed that he could harness his deep contempt for the Jews into a venomous curse. Gradually, as he looks upon this people, he is “won over” and his dislike is replaced by respect and appreciation. He even becomes envious of the Jews, of their historical lot, and of their future. As his hatred recedes, he cannot summon the enmity necessary to condemn a nation he now genuinely respects. This final narrative- the third failed attempt to curse the Jews- isn’t a narrative of Divine authority over human prophecy.

Instead, it is a narrative about hatred, and how it can be converted to admiration or, at the very least, tolerance.

How was Bilam’s hatred converted? Why do we hate, and what can we do to lessen our contempt?

The first part of Bilam’s transformation is a product of his viewing the Jews as real people rather than ghastly caricatures.

When we dislike a character trait, we tend

to “tag” that person, exaggerate the disapproved trait, and, ultimately, villainize the person. Villiainization allows us to justify our hatred and sadly, sometimes, to justify violence. Hitler could not sell his hatred to an otherwise moral population unless he portrayed the Jewish race as sub-Aryan monster threatening the genetic purity of Western civilization. Once we villainize, we desensitize, and it becomes easier to hate.

Bilam and Balak demonized the Jews into monsters of their own imagination.

They portrayed the Jews as a voracious ox, consuming all the grass of the meadow, or as a swarm, about to blot out the sun. These hyperboles, hatched out of fear and anxiety, cast the Jews as worthy of extermination.

Bilam’s blood boiled, his hatred surged, and he assumed that his vitriol would naturally explode as a curse.

At which point he gazes upon Jewish families living idyllic lifestyles. These monsters are now human beings- husbands and mothers, children and siblings. The Jews have now been re-humanized into real people –not voracious oxen- and they are no longer the monsters he had detested.

Having replaced his imaginary monsters with real people, Bilam’s hatred subsides, and his curses are snuffed.

It is easier to hate perceived monsters than to dislike real people. In our modern polarized world, we live among “ourselves” snuggly protected within the security of our “in-groups”, rarely interacting with “others” who we assign to our “out-groups”. In the safety of our own echo chambers, we don’t engage in enough cross-group experiences to meet others from “out-groups”. When we don’t encounter people on a human or person-to person level, it is easier to hate based upon ideological arguments, political differences or other irritations. Sadly, the world is divided into two groups: those who divide the world into groups and those who don’t. We are becoming a people of groupings, and without meeting each other as humans, we simmer with hatred.

Bilam’s hatred subsides for a second reason: he spans the nation from the top of a mountain cliff. When we obsess about a particular disliked character trait, without zooming out and considering the entire person, our hatred seethes. Everyone possesses appealing and less attractive traits.

Contempt is born when we focus upon their disagreeable traits and ignore their broader redeeming qualities. No one is more aware of the impact of “partial viewing” than Bilam. Having failed to curse the Jews, he relocates to a different overhang, searching for a cliff from which he can gaze upon a fragment of the population without considering the entire nation. He recognizes that zooming out will provide perspective

We convince ourselves that the people we dislike are defined by the trait we dislike. In reality, people are rarely defined by one particular trait and are rarely as onedimensional as our irate hatred depicts them. and temper his revulsion. If he sees them too clearly, he will admire them too much to curse them. By honing in on a particular region of the camp, or a particular segment of the population he hopes to maintain his contempt.

Myopic vision fuels hatred. We convince ourselves that the people we dislike are defined by the trait we dislike. In reality, people are rarely defined by one particular trait and are rarely as one-dimensional as our irate hatred depicts them. But hatred, by nature, is obsessive and we become too preoccupied with our dislike and our loathing. All-inclusive assessments provide fuller pictures, more respect and less hatred.

There is a final factor behind the waning of Bilam’s hatred. The donkey fiasco is humiliating. His donkey envisions angels that he can’t discern, and, worse, he is lectured by that donkey about loyalty and aggression. Earlier in the story we encounter a very confident and even cocky international celebrity who enjoys the public attention and the offers of wealth and honor. Bilam delights in the negotiations, realizing that, at some point, he can name his price. He also enjoys keeping his solicitors in suspense, waiting for G-d’s reply. He relishes the spotlight, and his oversized ego craves gold and honor.

Cockiness and self-absorption often

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lead to hatred. We hate those we deem less worthy than ourselves. Sometimes we view them as threats, other times as nuisances, but always, as inferior to ourselves and “deserving” of our hatred. From Bilam’s palace, everything seems clear and simple. He is G-d’s chosen, an internationally acclaimed prophet and the Jews threaten his position and his influence. He is riled to hatred against this irksome band of former slaves who jeopardize his career.

After being embarrassed by his donkey, Bilam has lost his swagger. He has been humbled, and no longer feeling so superior, he cannot possibly hate them as much as the “old Bilam” detested them. After being dishonored by his own donkey his hatred fades.

Bilam’s hatred is converted into admiration because he takes a broad view of the Jews as human beings, and because he sheds his arrogance. Bilam’s conversion contains valuable instructions about minimizing or eliminating our own hatreds.

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

Ahavas Yisrael

BY RABBI JUDAH MISCHEL Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner of Kerestir zy’a, “Reb Shayaleh”, was beloved and respected as a Tzadik, Rebbe, and miracle worker who dedicated his life to the well-being of Jews. A Gaon in Torah and paradigm of Mesirus Nefesh and Ahavas Yisrael, Reb Shayaleh referred to himself as the Aibishter’s Kecher, G-d’s Cook. This was because he was continuously welcoming and feeding all who came, from Talmidei Chachamim to the simplest of Jews from across Hungary and Europe. Reb Shayaleh provided them with a place to stay, Hachnasas Orchim, care for their material and spiritual needs.

Pinchas’l, an unfortunate vagabond who suffered from emotional instability was a regular guest. He was rude and unkempt, and would spend much of his time sitting on the Rebbe’s balcony smoking cigarettes, even on Shabbos. The

flagrant disregard for Kedushas Shabbos was just too much for the Gabbaim, who were concerned not only for the honor of Shabbos and the Kavod of their Rebbe, but that he was negatively influencing others. They suggested Pinchas’l find other arrangements away from the home and Beis Medrash of the Tzadik.

Reb Shayaleh looked at them in astonishment. “Should I send a Jew away from my home?! I will be ois Rebbe, I’ll close my Kremel, I’ll give it all up… but a Yid will never be sent away from Kerestir!”

Such was the path of Reb Shayaleh, and is the Derech of the true Tzadikim.

Rebbe Avraham Yehoshua Heschel of Apta, the Ohev Yisrael, zy’a, was known to find an allusion to the mitzvah of V’Ahavta l’Reyacha Kamocha, “and you shall love your friend as yourself,” in every Parsha in the Torah. When asked where this fundamental mitzvah is found in our Sedra, Parshas Balak, the Rebbe responded:

Balak

Balak’s officers that he is unable to go with them, due to G-d’s warning. After they report back to Balak, he sends higher-ranking officers to persuade Bilam.

Bilam repeats that he is bound by G-d’s word. G-d again appears to Bilam at night, telling him that he has permission to go, but that he must do what He instructs him.

3RD ALIYA (SHLISHI) – 22:21-38

Balak, the king of Moab, having seen that the Israelites defeated the Emorites, is afraid that they will plot against him.

Balak sends emissaries to Midian, to Bilam the son of Be’or, asking him to curse the Israelites. Bilam tells Balak’s emissaries to stay the night, to give him time to see how G-d will instruct him. G-d appears to Bilam at night and warns him not to travel to Moab to curse the Israelites, who are a blessed nation.

2ND ALIYA (LEVI) – 22:13-20

Bilam wakes up in the morning and tells

the evil Bilaam: “Those who have an Ayin Tovah, a humble spirit and a humble soul, are among the disciples of our forefather Avraham. Those who have an evil eye, an arrogant spirit and a greedy soul are among the disciples of the wicked Bilaam.”

The Midah of Ayin Tovah is to see beneath the surface of another person, to see their essence. When we find a good point at the core of another Jew, we relate to them with generosity of spirit, not exacting, flexible and patient.

As we begin the days of Bein haMeitzarim, our focus is directed toward the rebuilding of our Beis haMikdash. May we merit the blessing of the Holy City, to be guided by the light of the true Tzadikim and see the good of Yerushalayim — and merit living our lives with an Ayin Tovah toward all!

Rabbi Judah Mischel is Executive Director of Camp HASC, and Mashpiah of OU-NCSY. He is a member of Mizrachi’s Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/ speakers).

“How goodly are your tents, O Yaakov, your dwelling places, O Israel” (Bemidbar 24:5)

Sidra Summary

1ST ALIYA (KOHEN) – BEMIDBAR 22:2-12

“BaLaK is a Roshei Teivos (acronym) for V’ahavta L’reacha Kamocha….”

For even the devoted Chassidim of Apta, this was a stretch! Even though the letters do indeed share the same sound, two of the three letters do not match.

V’ahavta begins with the letter Vav, while Balak begins with a Beis. And Kamocha begins with a Chaf, not a Kuf. There was an audible, cynical reaction among the Chevreh, but then the Rebbe admonished them with powerful words of Mussar: Ven es kumpt tzu Ahavas Yisrael ken mi’nisht medakdek zayn mitt de’oysiyos! — “When it comes to achieving love of our fellow Jew, we can’t be so precise with the spelling! If you are so particular about ‘the letter of the law,’ you will never come to Ahavas Yisrael, loving a Jew.” Ahavas Yisrael requires flexibility, a willingness to ‘round-up’ your calculations and not be so exacting with other people. Ahavas Yisrael demands an Ayin Tovah — seeing the good in everyone.

This Midah is referred to in Pirkei Avos, 5:22: the difference between students of Avraham Avinu, and l’Havdil, those of

Bilam saddles his donkey and travels with Balak’s officers. G-d is angered by Bilam’s decision and sends an angel to impede him. The donkey sees the angel, who has a drawn sword in his hand. She deviates from the road to avoid the angel. Bilam, unable to see the angel, hits the donkey.

The angel positions himself between two parallel fences. When the donkey moves towards the wall, pressing Bilam’s leg against it, Bilam again hits her. The angel then places himself in a narrow part of the path, making it impossible for the donkey to circumvent him. She stops and crouches, causing Bilam to get angry and hit her again. G-d “opens the mouth of the donkey”, who defends her actions.

G-d now “uncovers Bilam’s eyes” and he sees the angel. The angel chastises Bilam, who admits his sin and suggests that he

returns home. The angel responds that he can continue his journey but must not say anything other than what G-d tells him. Balak goes out to greet Bilam on the border of Arnon.

4TH ALIYA (REVI’I) – 22:39-23:12

Bilam and Balak go to a vantage point from where Bilam can see the edge of the Israelite camp. Bilam tells Balak to build him seven altars and give him seven bulls and rams to sacrifice. Balak complies and Bilam sacrifices the animals. G-d appears to Bilam and tells him what to say. Against his will, Bilam actually blesses the Israelites. Balak is incensed, yet Bilam claims that he is unable to defy G-d’s command.

Point to Consider: How do we see Bilam trying to emulate the patriachs? (see Rashi to 23:4)

5TH ALIYA (CHAMISHI) – 23:13-26

Balak takes Bilam to a new location in the hope of a better result. Once again, Bilam brings animal offerings. As before, G-d appears to Bilam, who can only bless,not curse, the Israelites.

6TH ALIYA (SHISHI) – 23:27-24:13

Balak and Bilam go to a third location.

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After bringing the offerings to the altar, Bilam sees the encampments of the Israelites and “the spirit of G-d rests upon him” so that he actually no longer wants to curse them (Rashi). Again Bilam blesses Israel. Balak dismisses him.

7TH ALIYA (SHEVI’I) – 24:14-25:9

Before leaving, Bilam tells Balak that the Israelites could be vulnerable to licentious behaviour (Rashi). He then prophesies about future stages of their history.

Bilam and Balak go their separate ways.

The Israelites settle in Shittim where the men are attracted to Moabite women, as well as towards worshipping the idol Pe’or. Pinchas, a grandson of Aharon, sees a public display of licentious behaviour and kills the culprit, Zimri from the tribe of Shimon, along with Kozbi, the Midianite princess.

HAFTARAH

The prophet Micha describes the Messianic times that the ‘remnant of Yaakov’ will experience. He also recalls how G-d looked after the nation in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt, including His thwarting of the evil plans of Balak and Bilam.

‫יע ת ִּת ְש ְׁמ ֶט נָ ה‬ ִ ִ‫וְ ַה ְשׁב‬

Can you survive a year with zero income?

The farmer can’t. By abandoning his livelihood, he gives up his means for survival. He can’t afford the lease on his land. He can’t pay the grocery bills.

He can’t support his family. Without our help, he won’t make it through the year.

They go above their nature.

Let’s give above ours.

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A Torah bite for the Shabbat table

Finding Spiritual Motivation RABBI BEN GOODMAN Spirituality and motivation are not the best of friends; and although some days are better than others, very few people maintain a perpetual enthusiasm for Torah and Mitzvos. Unfortunately, our souls are not playing on home ground and only get moving twelve or thirteen years into the game.

Their opponents- our physical selves- serve as fearsome adversaries, highly proficient at quashing any semblance of spiritual yearning we might feel.

Concerning this waning spiritual motivation, the Baalei Mussar- our spiritual guides and mentors- write that we must conduct ourselves with “zrizus”- alacrity; that even if we don’t feel like doing a Mitzvah, we must still perform it in the way a person bursting with zeal and passion would do. This does not mean pulling the wool over our eyes and feigning motivation and excitement, rather it means learning how to detach the quality of our actions from our constantly fluctuating, inner spiritual drive, thereby maintaining a continuous high-quality service of Hashem.

There is, nevertheless, a slight difficulty with this strategy. If the Torah expects us to emulate the actions of a spiritually

motivated person, then we need to know how spiritually motivated people act. However, since true spiritual motivation is rare, we have nobody from whom to learn. For this reason, the Baalei Mussar instruct us to observe the behavior of materialistically motivated people (ourselves included) and apply it to our own spiritual conduct. For example, observe shoppers on Black Friday.

Perceive the behavior of those determined to lay their hands on a Panasonic 4K2K 3D 152-inch plasma screen and implement those movements into your service of Hashem.

This principle of learning spiritual conduct from materialistically motivated people explains a curious exchange between Bilaam and Hashem in this week’s Parsha.

Bilaam was a non-Jew upon whom Hashem had bestowed the gift of prophecy. Instead of utilizing his gift of prophecy for the good, Bilaam attempted to utilize it for the bad,

namely the annihilation of Klal Yisroel.

The Torah relays how in anticipation of his journey to curse the Jewish people, Bilaam arose early in the morning and saddled his own donkey, a job usually reserved for the stable hand. The Midrash says that at that moment Hashem spoke to Bilaam and said, “You wicked man. Their forefather Avraham has beaten you to it, as it is written [regarding the episode of the Akeidah- the binding of Isaac,] “So Avraham woke up early in the morning and he saddled his donkey.”

The Chasam Sofer, Rabbi Moshe Sofer (1762-1839,) explains that Hashem did not want Bilaam’s alacrity, stemming from his eagerness to curse Klal Yisroel, to serve as a source of instruction for the Jewish people in their service of Hashem. Therefore, He diminished Bilaam’s behavior, overshadowing it with Avraham Avinu’s genuinely admirable eagerness to perform the Akeidah.

If the Torah expects us to emulate the actions of a spiritually motivated person, then we need to know how spiritually motivated people act.

Feeling spiritually demotivated is not a reason to feel disheartened and certainly is not indicative of a spiritual defect. On the contrary, it is an indisputable proof that you are human! However, we cannot allow our lack of motivation to dictate the quality of our service of Hashem; we must forge ahead regardless of how we feel and know that Hashem understands our challenges and appreciates every tiny effort we make.

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

He encourages feedback & ideas: ben@mydvartorah.com

Chovat Halevavot Hilchot Shabbat

The author has taught us that in terms of serving Hashem, it is only appropriate to have faith in G-d in relation to “step 3” of a good deed – the actual performance of a Mitzvah.

It is not correct to simply trust G-d to inspire us or to have a plan to serve Him. This touches on the very broad and complex topic of, “All is in Heaven’s hands, besides for fear of Heaven” and much has been written about it. We find in certain parts of our prayers that we do request what appears to be Divine inspiration to perform Mitzvot.

Consider this, however. It may not be right to ask Hashem to make us want to do a Mitzvah but we can certainly ask Hashem that we find a place to live among righteous people. We may not be able to ask Hashem to inspire us to do Mitzvot but we can ask Him to ensure we find a good place to daven so that we are surrounded by G-d fearing Jews which inevitably will lead to a good influence on us.

The author now draws another distinction between material and spiritual pursuits in terms of the application of Bitachon. In terms of material success in this world, we

have not had a time-honoured tradition of any particular trade guaranteeing a good income, along with good health and a generally a “good” life.

Sometimes the suitability of a career can change or something that was originally of benefit can now act to one’s detriment.

It therefore makes sense that after a person has prayed for Heavenly help in choosing the correct career path for their overall goodness, and has chosen a suitable profession, that they place their trust in G-d to be able to succeed in their career.

When it comes to Torah and Mitzvot on the other hand, we have no doubt that G-d wants us to perform keep Shabbat and not talk Lashon Hara (along with the other commandments of the Torah). It therefore makes no sense to place ones entire trust in G-d that we should choose the correct action for our overall goodness, because we know very well that keeping Mitzvot and refraining from sin is for our benefit forever.

Bitachon therefore should be employed only for the actual implementation of the Mitzvah.

Two further conditions that must be satisfied in order for a surface to become a “Ba’sis” are: 1. The Muktzah item must be placed directly on top of the surface in order for the surface to have the laws of a Ba’sis.

So, if one intentionally left Muktzah in their shirt pocket, which commonly has one of its “walls” being the shirt itself, then the shirt becomes a Ba’sis.

If, on the other hand, one places a coin in a pocket of clothing which is independent to the clothing (for example a jacket pocket) then the garment does not become a Ba’sis. Ideally one should shake the garment (not the pocket itself ), in order to release the Muktzah before donning such clothing.

2. The surface only becomes a Ba’sis if it only serves (at twilight) as a Ba’sis for Muktzah alone. If, on the other hand, it also serves as a surface for a non-Muktzah item, then provided the non-Muktzah item is of higher value, then the surface will not become a Ba’sis. So, for example, if in a drawer, one had a purse with a £10 note in, but also had a tie worth £15, then the drawer will not become Muktzah.

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However, not only if the non Muktzah item is more expensive does it “protect” the surface from becoming a Ba’sis – even if the non-Muktzah item is less expensive, if it is more needed for Shabbat then it becomes more important.

Where this comes into frequent practice is with Shabbat candles on a table. (Note we are not discussing candlestick trays at present). With the candles burning at the onset of Shabbat, one’s table would become a Ba’sis and be forbidden to move, throughout Shabbat. However, one can prevent the table becoming a Ba’sis by ensuring that either the Challot are on the table or that the silverware is on. So, the table is contested by the candles, but saved by the silverware!

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Parshas Balak: A Prophecy for Bilaam and for Us

BY GAVRIEL COHN This week’s Torah portion begins at the end of the Jewish People’s forty years of journeying in the desert. They pitched their tents in the Plains of Moab, just east of the Jordan River, within eyeshot of the Land of Israel and waited, poised to enter the Land. Yet, the kingdom of Moab, having just witnessed the Jewish People’s successful battles against the neighbouring tribes, were “overcome with dread because of the children of Israel.”

Midianite magician), Israel “is a nation Balak, Moab’s king, thus dispatched the that dwells alone, and will not be reckMidianite shaman, Bilaam, to curse the oned with the nations.” Additionally, Jews using his spells and incantations.

Balak and Bilaam both employ deceit and Yet, in a stunning plot-twist, “G-d placed change their minds on multiple occasomething into Balaam’s mouth,” and the sions. In contrast, as Bilaam describes, rogue prophet blessed the Jewish People “G-d is not a man that He should lie; instead, divining prophecies of exquisite nor is He a mortal that will change His beauty. mind.” Furthermore, the Jewish People, Perhaps Bilaam’s parables blessing as Bilaam tells, do not harm others using the Jewish People are, in part, intended the illicit means of the occult, as Bilaam to directly criticise his own personality does: “there is no divination in Jacob and and actions, mocking Bilaam and Balak no sorcery in Israel.” Instead they tackle and showing how the Jewish People are challenges with intelligence and real soluthe exact opposite of these antisemites. tions. The Jewish People are courageous That instead of punily collaborating with in battle and do not engage in secretive, another nation to defend itself, as Balak Jewish Weekly 265x158 0121.pdf 17:03 scheming warfare, sneaking up onto the king of Moab had done (enlisting 1a 25/01/2021

protective high places in order to try and catch a glimpse of their enemy and curse them from safety, as Bilaam did. Instead the Jews are “a people that rises like an awesome lion; it does not lie down until it eats its prey.”

In short, perhaps sections of the parables that Bilaam tells set to contrast his own shameful, cowardly tactics with the commendable stature of the nation he sought to curse, the Jewish People. His blessings serve to openly and ironically mock and insult himself and Balak.

Yet, of course, these parables are also timeless prophecies whose messages resound in every generation. Naphtali Lau-Lavie, a survivor of Auschwitz and

Buchenwald, named his memoirs “Balaam’s Prophecy.” After the horrors of the Nazi Death Camps, he went to Israel, were he played a role building the fledging Jewish State, becoming an important government official. He saw within Bilaam’s words the Jewish national journey of the Nineteenth Century and his own life story: “It is a People that dwells alone… this is a nation that rises like a great lion and lifts itself up as a young cub…” Both Rav Soloveitchik and Yaakov Herzog also saw this Biblical imagery as perfectly characterising the State of Israel, which, to a great extent, stands alone and separate in the world. Ideally this isolation should be used as a blessing; we should stubbornly preserve our Jewish values and traditions, as we have done since our birth as a people. Finally, Menachem Begin too saw Bilaam’s parables as being of eternal relevance: “One does not have to be a mystic for the imagination to be stirred by such an improbable vision of a nation forever ‘dwelling alone.’ Is it not a startlingly accurate prophecy of our Jewish People’s experience in all of history?”

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.

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Balak

Balak Word Search

King Balak, the newly appointed head of Moav was terrified of the Jews. They had just won a battle against two mighty kings -Sichon and Og. How could he win the Jews? He had a grand plan to hire a certain individual with the power of the tongue – Bil’am who was known to be able to bless or curse people.

Balak sent messengers to Bil’am. Bil’am was able to communicate with Hashem, who warned him not to go, but eventually, Bil’am was allowed to go but informed that only what Hashem allowed him to express would be able to be said.

Indeed Bil’am leaves on the journey with his donkey, but the donkey acts strangely on the journey and Bil’am gets injured and ends up hitting his donkey three times! The

donkey actually has been given the power of speech and tells Bil’am off for hitting him!

Bil’am then realises that an angel is blocking the way and once the angel warns him to behave, it was time to continue.

Eventually, Bil’am arrives at the hilltop and begins giving some awesome blessings to the Jewish people – some of which we are very familiar with, such as Mah Tovu.

Balak is frustrated but Bil’am gives him a different idea of how to harm the Jews – get them to sin! Indeed this is what happened but at the end a big hero named Pinchas brought an end to the terrible plague that fell upon the Jews after they sinned.

G-d protects us from our enemies, but we must be careful to do the right thing at all times!

Tangram Challenge!

Using all the shapes on the left can you make the Bilam on donkey on the right?

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ANGEL • BILAM • BLESSING • CURSE • DONKEY • MOAB • MOUTH • TENTS

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Balak

In a nutshell Last week’s sidra ended with Moshe toppling the mighty kings Sichon and Og. A gentleman named Balak king of Moav could not help but notice it and he was frightened of the Jews.

Now, Moav was no friend of Midian, but out of fear of the Jews the king of Moav decided he had no choice but to join up with a force in Midian named Bil’am. Offering to foot a very high bill, Balak sent messengers to Bil’am to ask him if he could use his skills to wipe out his feared enemies G-d forbid.

Well, Bil’am being a prophet, decided to wait until he got the go ahead from G-d. So at night G-d appeared to Bil’am and told him in no uncertain terms that he is not to go curse the chosen nation.

When Balak’s messengers returned home emptyhanded Balak realised that he’d need to offer more money. So he did that. Bil’am wasn’t impressed, saying, “If Balak gives me his entire storehouse of money I cannot go against the word of Hashem” . Sounds righteous but it was actually greed. He asked Hashem again if he can go and this

time Hashem told him that he could however, what words would come out of his mouth would be G-d’s decision, not Bil’am’s.

So off they went, Bil’am mounting his donkey and travelling off towards to Jewish encampment in the desert.

On the way however, the donkey seems to hesitate and then veers to the side abruptly, injuring Bil’am in the leg.

Bil’am hits the donkey three times eventually leading the donkey to open its mouth and miraculously start talking, asking Bil’am why he found it appropriate to whack him.

It was at that point that Bil’am understood it all. An angel was blocking the road, frightening the donkey, but Bil’am had not noticed it all along. So Bil’am apologised but continued on towards the Jews. The angel reminded him that he can go but he should remember that the words that will emanate from his mouth shall only be the ones G-d shall choose.

Bil’am seemed to understand as this is what he told Balak too when they finally met. They offered up sacrifices and the show was ready to begin.

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.

Out of Bil’am’s mouth came the least planned “curses” G-d turned them into blessings!

Balak expressed his chagrin at this “failure” but Bilaam continued giving some of the most awesome blessings we ever received as a nation including the world famous “Mah Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov Mish’kenosecha Yisrael” – how beautiful are your homes! And how beautiful are our Shuls, Yeshivot and schools where Jewish children are raised with a love for Torah and Mitzvot!

Eventually Balak got the message and Bil’am said – Let us try something else. We all know how G-d is particular on Jewish people maintaining standards of holiness and purity – let us make them sin in these areas and then our job will be done for us! Unfortunately many people sinned and thousands of people – 24,000 died in a plague that followed.

G-d prevented a mighty prophet from cursing us, but sadly, the Jewish people brought devastation upon themselves by disregarding Hashem’s word. It took a brave young man called Pinchas, to bring an end to this tragedy.

Use this area to write the words you have found.

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Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! cob col beck bloc bock

cell cock coke lock block

cello clock coble cockle cellblock THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

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Q. Why didn’t the sailors play cards?

A. Because the captain was on the deck.

A sandwich walks into a hairdressers. The owner says: “Sorry, we don’t serve food in here.”

Q: How do you make antifreeze?

A: You hide her coat!

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. What word is always pronounced wrong?

3.When is a door not a door?

I just got back from a once in a lifetime trip.

Not doing that again!

2. The one who buys it does not keep it. It is large and small and any shape.

What is it?

3) When it is ajar.

1. Wrong!

2) A gift.

1. Cutting edge 2. Watermark 3. Breaking news

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4. Bear in mind 5. Skating on thin ice 6. Eye of the tiger

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SPORTS WEEKLY SPECIAL

EURO 2020

England face Germany in Euros

BY DAVID SAFFER All roads lead to Wembley Stadium as England take on Germany in the last-16 of Euro 2020 on Tuesday (5pm).

Raheem Sterling sent England into the tie of the round with the only goal against Czech Republic to win Group D. Germany crushed Hungarian hearts with a late equaliser in Group F last night.

Jack Grealish set up the 12th minute winner for Sterling against the Czech’s and enjoyed a fine first half at Wembley.

England’s talisman Harry Kane went close to scoring but for a third successive game failed to hit the target. The return of central defender Harry Maguire was a plus for Gareth Southgate’s side slated after a drab 0-0 draw against Scotland in the second group game.

England have yet to produce “champagne football” but that did not bother Southgate after his side topped the group and have yet to concede a goal, a first since the 1982 World Cup second group phase and Boys of ’66 endeavours. Southgate is more concerned his side is tough to beat.

Performances, he insists, will come.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live, “We are a little bit short in a few areas of match fitness and sharpness, and I thought as the game wore on that started to take its toll a bit. We have hit the woodwork in all three matches and the other thing we have to get better on is our attacking set-play which is normally such a good source of goals for us and our deliveries have been really poor.”

Southgate added, “We are difficult to score against at the moment and although we’re not perhaps flowing as much as we’d like, that solidity is critical for any team doing well.”

Germany scraped into the next stage when substitute Leon Goretzka struck an 84th minute equaliser.

Rank underdogs Hungary twice led the former Euro champions in Group F with goals from Adam Szalai and Andras Schafer only for Kai Havertz and Goretzka to level the scores.

Portugal drew 2-2 with France in the other group game to both qualify for the last 16.

Cristiano Ronaldo equalled the all-time international goalscoring record with two penalties to equal Ali Daei’s all-time record for Iran. Karim Benzema also bagged a brace in an entertaining clash.

Harry Maguire is back to help England’s EURO 2020 campaign

France play Switzerland whilst Portugal take on Belgium in another huge clash for the competition.

Croatia’s Luka Modric broke Scottish hearts at Hampden Park in Group D. Nikola Vlasic silenced a fervent crowd before Callum McGregor fired home just before half-time but Modric struck a sensational goal on the hour prior to Ivan Perisic sealing a 3-1 win with a header.

“Tonight we were against a team that are tournament hardened and they knew how to play the third game in a group and probably we didn’t,” Head coach Steve Clarke told BBC Scotland. “We didn’t get anything out the first game which meant we had to go to Wembley and expend a lot of energy physically and mentally to give ourselves a chance and maybe we suffered for it in the third game. That’s something we can learn for the next tournament, I promise you it won’t be 23 years until the next one.”

In Group A, 10-man Wales dug deep to finish second behind Italy in a 1-0 defeat in Rome.

Matteo Pessina scored the only goal of the game in the first half for the hosts, who claimed three group wins, before Ethan Ampadu was sent off for a challenge on

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

Federico Bernardeschi after an hour of an absorbing contest.

Wales captain Gareth Bale told ITV Sport, “We knew it would be very difficult from the start. A lot of running and defending, I am proud of the boys. We have made it through.” He added, “I didn’t see too much of the red card. It was unfortunate. We had to dig deep and we did that.

We have to recover now and take the break and get ready to get going again.”

Switzerland qualified in third place by defeating Turkey 3-1 in Baku.

Haris Seferovic and Xherdan Shaqiri gave the Swiss a 2-0 interval lead. Kahveci pulled a goal back just past the hour before Shaqiri bagged his second of the game.

Belgium completed a third Group B victory with a comfortable win over Finland courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by keeper Lukas Hradecky, who deflected a Thomas Vermaelen header off the woodwork into his goal, and a Romelu Lukaku strike late on in St Petersburg.

Denmark, after global headlines when Christian Eriksen collapsed with a cardiac arrest in the opening game, secured a thrilling 4-1 win against Russia to qualify as one of the four best third-placed

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teams on an emotional night at a packed Copenhagen.

The Danes had to win and hope Belgium beat Finland, and the hosts made the perfect start when Mikkel Damsgaard fired home from long-range before half time.

Yussuf Poulsen doubled the lead only for Artem Dzyuba to pull a goal back for Russia with a penalty. But Denmark, playing on a wave of emotion, re-established a two-goal lead with an Andreas Christensen howitzer before Joakim Maehle sealed an emphatic win with a solo effort on 82 minutes.

Russia began the night in second place, but ended it bottom of the table.

The Danes welcome Wales to Copenhagen in what could be a really entertaining clash.

Netherlands made it three Group C wins with a routine victory against North Macedonia courtesy of Memphis Depay and Georginio Wijnaldum at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.

Austria made the knockout stages in an all or nothing win against Ukraine thanks to a Christoph Baumgartner’s close-range finish to set up a meeting with Italy whilst the Netherlands play the Czech Republic next. A terrific clash awaits.

Sweden won a five-goal thriller against Poland to top Group E in St Petersburg.

Emil Forsberg struck twice only for Robert Lewandowski to curl home a superb strike then level the scores with a sharp finish six minutes from time. But the Swedes broke Polish hearts with a goal from substitute Victor Claesson in stoppage time.

Spain after two disappointing draws finally joined the Euro party by thumping Slovakia 5-0 in Seville.

After Alvaro Morata had a VAR-awarded penalty saved well by Martin Dubravka, the Slovak keeper inexplicably punched the ball into his net after Pablo Sarabia’s shot cannoned off the crossbar, Aymeric Laporte nodded the second, Sarabia made it three, Ferran Torres flicked home a fourth from a corner with his first touch of the ball before another Slovakian own goal, this time by Juraj Kucka, completed the scoring.

Spain face Croatia and Sweden take on Ukraine in the other last-16 games.

Whisper it quietly, but should England prevail against the Germans they will meet the winner of Sweden and Ukraine for a place in the semi-finals!

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O’s on brink of title after blitzing HMH

BY DAVID SAFFER Oakwood are in pole position to clinch the Premier League title after a stunning 5-0 triumph against HMH at Ark Academy.

The O’s will be crowned champions if they defeat Jewdinese on Sunday.

HMH needed a point to wrap up the title for the first time in their history but had no answer to a rampant Oakwood who can pip Avi Goldberg’s side by a point in a thrilling championship battle.

Ben Peppi and Felix Shalom bagged a brace apiece before Josh Cuby sealed a famous win.

Peppi struck a wondergoal on 20 minutes before a sublime finish for a 2-0 half time lead. Shalom then struck twice and Cuby finished with aplomb late on.

Lewis Blitz’s team produced an astonishing display of attacking football.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” he noted at full time. “We came here with a game plan and have done it to perfection. Everyone knows how good HMH are so this is some result.”

Oakwood made a terrible start to the campaign, drawing their opening encounter and losing the next. They then faced HMH who had just won 38-0 in a cup match.

Blitz commented, “To come from where we were to now winning comfortably is phenomenal. HMH are a great side, we’ve come here and shown them a lot of respect. We looked at how they play and thought how we could go about winning and the boys have done it.”

Regarding the Jewdinese game, Blitz added, “I’m sure HMH will be keeping an eye on the game. We need three points as a draw is not good enough. Jewdinese are a great side. We saw what they did against Hendon recently and they lost narrowly to HMH. Anything can happen but we will be ready.”

Striker Cuby said. “At this level, the standard is very similar so it comes down to mentality. We’ve been working hard in training sessions and our positioning has been strong, we’ve got better throughout the season.” As for his goal, Cuby commented, “Once the keeper comes out there is only one thing in a strikers mind and that is go for goal.”

Oakwood won the league in 2017 and Cuby was a member of the side.

“We have more depth in this squad, that has been part of our success,” he said.

“Week in week out we fight for each other on the pitch, you saw that against HMH. It’s taken time to build a style of play. We gelled at the beginning of the season and we are now going for the double.”

Oakwood face Maccabi London FC in the Cyril Anekstein Trophy semifinals.

Goldberg was magnanimous in defeat.

He noted, “We had a real off day but all

credit to Oakwood who after the first 20 minutes took control of the match, they played the better football, looked fitter and hungrier.”

Ben Peppi strikes Oakwood’s second goal against HMH

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

Oakwood celebrate their 5-0 win against HMH

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

HMH on the attack against Oakwood

PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER

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Maccabi were pacesetters for long periods of the season. Should they defeat defending champions Hendon United Sports on Sunday they will finish level on points with HMH. In other fixtures, Hendon shared the spoils 2-2 with North London Raiders in a battling performance.

Mordy Weiler scored for the hosts along with an own goal.

London Bears wrapped up the Division One title with a 4-1 triumph against Hertswood Vale.

Zacki Doumou struck a hat-trick and Sam Martin hit the target in a memorable triumph.

Vale needed to win their final two games to lift the title and equalised through Harry Graham on the hour before Bears edged ahead then scored two late goals.

Player boss James Harpin noted, “We saved our best two performances for the biggest games of the season. Every man did their job and I’m proud of everyone.

Next season will be a bigger test but maybe we can upset the odds again.”

Vale’s Jacob Emmanual said, “It was a very close game and unfortunately, despite a strong performance in the first half, we couldn’t take our chances.”

Vale need a point at home to Faithfold Green to ratify promotion but it would take a freak result to deny them as they have a 19-goal advantage over third place Borussia Barnet.

Brook Farm Rovers defeated Paris Saint Jewmain 3-1 with an Adam Ellis brace and Adam Goldberg strike in a solid performance. Seb Pell scored PSJ’s goal in the final match as a club.

Manager Dan Cohen commented, “We should have scored more goals but we’ll take the points. That’s seven wins in a row and we still have a chance to finish third which would be brilliant.”

PSJ boss Elio Elia noted, “I thought we played really well and made a great account of ourselves.” He added, “I’m really proud of the boys’ hard effort and commitment over the last two seasons.”

FC Team won a seven-goal thriller against Mill Hill Dons 4-3.

The Division Two title race will be decided when NWL Azurri visit SPEC and Stoke Salmon host Hampstead Ducks on Sunday.

Azurri have a 12-goal advantage over Stoke so are favourites to lift the title.

Both sides secured promotion weeks ago and are 12 points clear of Hampstead who defeated FC East London Bees 3-2 to cement third place. Jono Gaon struck a hat-trick in a terrific win.

Redbridge Jewish Care won 3-1 at Straw Hat Pirates.

54 SPORT

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Reich stun Haroldeans in final on penalties Reich Masters defeated treble chasing Haroldeans 3-0 on penalties after a 2-2 draw to retain the Harold Feldman Trophy.

Reich Masters defeated treble chasing Haroldeans 3-0 on penalties after a 2-2 draw to retain the Harold Feldman Trophy.

Reich played as a unit whilst The Merseysiders lacked a cutting edge.

Jake Hadden opened the scoring for the rank outsiders just before half time and nodded home a second before the hour for a 2-0 lead.

Haroldeans had struggled to breach a resolute Reich defence but got back into the match when Max Barnett atoned for an earlier miss to give his team a lifeline on 85 minutes. And the scores were level when Marcus Nezri equalise moments later before six minutes added time ensured spot kicks would decide the winners.

Haroldeans, having won the league and Tony Cohen Cup, looked set to lift more silverware after a sensational comeback. But Reich slotted in three penalties whilst Haroldeans had two saved by Leo Adleman and the final one soared over the crossbar to confirm one of the biggest upsets in the MJSL history.

Hadden was named man of the match after a shock win.

Will Feldman (Maccabi Manchester 3rd) scooped the Ray Mendell Trophy as MJSL Young Player of the Year. The Ronnie Rose Trophy was awarded to Paul Rose.

Haroldeans face Broughton Park Rangers in the Faye and Henry Shonn Trophy final on Sunday at Hyde United.

Reich Masters celebrating their win

Belmont and Edgware Cricket Club defeated Boxmoor Blackbirds by 10 wickets

Belmont and Edgware batsmen during the chase

A maiden five-wicket hall for seamer Jack Mendel helped Belmont and Edgware to a comprehensive victory on Sunday.

After the 1s’ fixture was cancelled due to the weather, a hybrid team including club captain Elliott Mayer and 2s skipper Bension Tilley behind the stumps took to the field with overcast skies. Winning the toss and putting the opposition into bat, Australian fast bowler Jonny Eintracht was miserly, going for just 5 runs in his four opening overs, as batsmen struggled to get it off the square.

Allrounder Josh Reynolds was hostile and moved the ball in the air, while Eintracht was unlucky not to pick up a few wickets with two difficult drops off his bowling.

After eight overs, captain Mayer turned to Jack Mendel, who bowled two maidens

to start with, before taking a wicket with the first ball of his third over. Interspersed with a few wides and no balls owing to the state of the run-up and a damp ball, he went on to have two more double-wicket overs, finishing with his best figures for the club, of 5-17.

It wasn’t a one-man-show though. Adam Morris bowled magnificently, picking up two wickets and passing the outside edge more times than he’d care to remember, in what was undeniably one of his best spells for the club. Joel Winston and Joe Saleh also kept it tight and created chances, as Belmont bowled the opposition out for just 87 inside 35 overs. A special mention must go to Reynolds who also took 3 great catches, on top of his two important scalps.

After the return of kosher teas, and with

rain in the air, openers Elliott Mayer and Mark Spanjar made light work of the small target, hitting an unbeaten 32* and 33* respectively, before Steven Altmann-Richer came in to help finish off the job. Mayer in particular hit some crunching pull shots in the opening over, while Spanjar looked in sparkling form, punishing anything off length.

Wrapping up the innings in just 13 overs, it was a total victory for Belmont and Edgware.

Club Captain Elliott Mayer said: “This was a really strong performance all round.

We were in control of the game from the very first over. All of our bowlers were superb and offered very limited scoring opportunities with tight lines and lengths throughout. They were also ably supported

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Jack Mendel after taking 5/17

in the field with some good catching too. It was particularly pleasing to see Jack Mendel take his first 5-fer for the club which was thoroughly deserved. Our openers also took the chance to get some runs under their belts before a big league game next week against Chalfont St Peter’s. An excellent team display which has been coming. We can build on this momentum for the rest of the season!”

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