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COMMUNITY ANGER OVER CORBYN’S RETURN CAA CALL FOR CORBYN TO BE EXPELLED FROM LABOUR PARTY

BY DAVID SAFFER

Jeremy Corbyn

Jewish leaders have welcomed Labour leader Keir Starmer’s decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn but they have also voiced anger and disdain at LaPHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK bour’s National

Executive Committee (NEC) panel for reinstating his membership following a suspension 19 days earlier over his reaction to the Equality and Human Rights report into anti-Semitism in the party.

Gideon Falter, Campaign Against Antisemitism chief executive, has called for Corbyn to be expelled from the party.

“We have been conned,” he said. “We did not go to the lengths of asking the EHRC to investigate the Labour Party only to return to

the days of opaque, arbitrary decisions by panels that are unfit for purpose.

“Withholding the whip from (Jeremy) Corbyn is offering the Jewish community crumbs. The EHRC ruled that Labour’s disciplinary processes were unfit but Sir Keir allowed Mr Corbyn to be tried under them. Not only that, but Mr Corbyn should never have CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

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Over £46,000 raised after Sadie chokes to death at nursery

BY DAVID SAFFER The family of a two-year-old girl who died after choking on a sausage at a Radlett nursery have been overwhelmed by support offered from wellwishers who have donated over £46,000 in her name.

Sadie Salt suffered a cardiac arrest and was rushed by emergency services to St Mary’s Hospital paediatric intensive care. Doctors fought for two days before Sadie passed away on Saturday.

An air ambulance and police also attended the tragic incident at Mini Learners Nursery in Watling Street last Thursday.

Two Jewish schools will no longer serve sausages to pupils as a result of the tragedy.

It is anticipated more schools will make announcements following the tragedy.

Yavneh Primary School have assured parents they do not serve sausages or grapes.

They also have a Lifevac suction choking device in its dining hall and a large number of the primary staff are first aid trained.

Sinai Jewish Primary School reacted instantly after calls of concern from parents.

The school, which supervises Early Years

snack times and lunch services, has removed sausages, hotdogs and grapes from the school lunch menu across all year groups.

All snacks for Early Years buses and school buses and coaches are also banned.

Parents of all year groups have been asked to “cut up (into small pieces and lengthways) all fruit and vegetable snacks” sent into school for children, particularly skinned fruits such as grapes and blueberries as it is the safest option.

Debbie Joseph, head of operations, added, “Key members of our Early Years staff are first aid trained, and we have a team of first aiders across the school. As an extra measure, we have arranged for a paediatric nurse to come into school to do a refresher training session on choking and CPR with key members of the Early Years team.”

Multi-agency enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances around the incident.

A Hertfordshire Constabulary spokesman said, “Our thoughts are with all those affected at this extremely sad and difficult time.”

Due to ongoing enquiries they are unable to comment further at this stage.

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Sadie Salt z”l

A spokesperson for Mini Learners Nursery said, “We are absolutely devastated by this news and our sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to the family.

“The safety and wellbeing of the children in our care is, and has always been, our utmost priority and we are working closely with the relevant bodies at this time. We are also taking steps to provide support to the children, families and staff team at our nursery at this incredibly difficult time.”

Sadie’s devastated family, who live in Barnet, set up the fundraising page thanks to the “wonderful care and support given to Sadie and us” to support COSMIC. The charity supports children’s and neonatal intensive care units at St Mary’s and Queen Charlotte’s Hospitals London, helping frontline intensive care staff deliver vital critical care, and supporting families with children on the units.

COSMIC also supports research initiatives to improve intensive care.

“The team at the ICU are beyond amazing and the care for Sadie and the support for us was outstanding!” noted parents Zoe and Adam. “They do an amazing job and fully deserve all the support they can get. They took tremendous care of our Sadie and us and nothing was too much to make us all feel loved, cared for and supported.

“We are in terrible pain as we suffer the untimely loss of our daughter and sister, but the

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huge support of love from you all has been overwhelming. We are so proud to tell you that she was able to help others by donating vital organs to go on and save lives.

“Please show your love and support for Sadie and us by giving to this wonderful charity. It means so much to us all and from the bottom of our hearts we thank you all for thinking of us.”

Over 7,000 people have also signed a petition set up by friends of the family, Darren Ruback and Claire Nicole, following the tragedy.

Sadie’s Law calls for legislation to ban nurseries from serving sausages and grapes to under 5’s.

The petition notes, “Our friends have lost their baby. Our baby has lost his friend. Two young boys have lost their little sister. We are fully aware that accidents happen but things can also be put in place to prevent these accidents occurring. Sausages are renowned for their awkward shape and tough skin, thus making it extra challenging for small children to chew. Grapes fall into the same category.

“We are appealing to get sausages and grapes banned from all nursery settings asap so no other family has to go through the devastation and heartbreak that so many people have felt this weekend.”

Donations can be made at https://www. justgiving.com/fundraising/adam-salt1

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 02 News 12 Opinion 14 Community 26 Feature 28 Cookery

32 Travel 34 Judaism 42 Kids 43 Youth 45 Sport

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 been suspended merely for his response to the EHRC’s damning report, but for the responsibility he bears for the Labour Party being found guilty of committing unlawful acts of anti-Semitism by the EHRC.” Falter added, “Sir Keir needs to get a grip of his Party and ensure that Mr Corbyn is held to account for what he did to Britain’s Jews. Who is in charge of the Labour Party? Today, we have submitted a second complaint against Mr Corbyn, calling for him to be held to account not by a sham panel but by an independent disciplinary process, as required by the EHRC. Sir Keir must suspend him pending that process, and, if our complaint is upheld, Mr Corbyn must be expelled.”

Board of Deputies president Marie van der Zyl said Corbyn’s initial reaction to the report had been “dismissive” and he had been “shameless and remorseless” for what he has put the Jewish community through.

“Labour’s disciplinary process is clearly still not fit for purpose,” she fumed.

Ms van der Zyl, in the midst of numerous media interviews, told LBC presenter Shelagh Fogarty that Corbyn had put anti-Semitism from the very fringes of society into the heart of the Labour Party.

“He (Starmer) is the leader of the party, he has to show leadership,” she said.

Ms van der Zyl added, “There were discussions on party unity and that has to be a matter for the Labour Party but I absolutely caution Labour against trying to achieve unity with anti-Semites or apologists. If Labour is going to be an anti-racist party once more these people should not be allowed to be members, and frankly, should not be allowed to feel comfortable as members. “(Keir) Starmer has to change the culture, this is the beginning of a very long journey.”

Labour’s leader made his view clear in a statement on the matter.

“I have made it my mission to root out anti-Semitism from the Labour Party,” Starmer explained. “I know that I will judged on my actions, not my words. The disciplinary process does not have the confidence of the Jewish community. That became clear once again yesterday.”

He added: “(Jeremy) Corbyn’s actions in response to the EHRC report undermined and set back our work in restoring trust and confidence in the Labour Party’s ability to tackle anti-Semitism. In those circumstances, I have taken the decision not to restore the whip to (Jeremy) Corbyn. I will keep this situation under review.”

Starmer continued, “It is the task of my leadership to fix what I have inherited.

That is what I am resolute in doing and I have asked for an independent process to be established as soon as possible.

“I’m the leader of the Labour Party, but I’m also the leader of the Parliamentary Labour Party.”

Labour was found guilty of unlawful acts of harassment and discrimination during Corbyn’s tenure. After describing anti-Semitism allegations as “dramatically overstated” by political opponents, Corbyn was suspended pending an investigation.

Marie van der Zyl, BoD

Gideon Falter, CAA

“Labour’s disciplinary process is clearly still not fit for purpose…”

Keir Starmer

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

“The disciplinary process does not have the confidence of the Jewish community.”

Corbyn received a “warning of conduct” letter after claiming he did not intend to “belittle” allegations.

The lighting speed, however, in which the NEC has reacted to Corbyn’s case drew the wrath of Jewish leaders.

Falter labelled his “shambolic suspension and readmission” as nothing more than a “media stunt” to blunt the blow of the EHRC’s report last month.

He explained, “By readmitting Mr Corbyn, the Labour Party has once again excused anti-Semitism and proved itself unwilling to address it. Mr Corbyn’s suspension should have remained in place until all of our complaints against him were investigated, but no investigation has been undertaken.”

Falter added, “The Jewish community

has been conned. Mr Corbyn must be resuspended immediately pending investigation of our complaint against him under the new independent process mandated by the EHRC. Britain is watching.”

Ms van der Zyl, Jewish Leadership Chair Jonathan Goldstein and Community Security Trust Chief Executive Mark Gardner issued a joined statement, citing the decision as a “retrograde step” for the Party in its relations with the Jewish community.

“For (Jeremy) Corbyn’s allies on the NEC to expedite his case whilst hundreds of other cases languished under his tenure, and his confected non-apology earlier today adds insult to injury,” they noted. “This politicisation of the process goes against what the EHRC recommended just last month.

Labour’s mountain to climb to win back the

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trust of our community just got higher.”

Corbyn expressed his delight to be reinstated in a statement, thanking party members and trade unionists who offered solidarity.

Noting anti-Semitism should never be tolerated or belittled, he regretted the pain the issue had caused the Jewish community and attempted to make clear that antisemitism was neither “exaggerated” nor “overstated”.

His comments however were immediately ridiculed by Jewish organisations.

Ms van der Zyl called on Labour to reject them. “The Jewish community does not accept this pathetic non-apology,” she said. “If the Party wants to show it is serious about tackling anti-Jewish racism, it will consign this statement, just like the culture which led to the EHRC’s damning findings, to the dustbin of history. To do otherwise would be a failure of leadership which would risk the Party slipping backwards.”

Falter added. “This is a desperate attempt to have his suspension lifted and reveals that he still believes that suspensions are something that happen on the whim of the Leader as it did during his tenure, and not as a result of any due process.

“If the Labour Party wants to build on the positive step of suspending Mr Corbyn, it must investigate the entirety of our complaint against him under the independent disciplinary process that the EHRC has mandated, and do so within six months. Reinstating Mr Corbyn now would only show that Labour is not serious about tackling antisemitism, or is incapable of doing so.”

CAA, in its latest development, has lodged a new complaint against Corbyn, alleging that he bears personal responsibility for the Party’s institutional anti-Semitism and must be held to account.

CAA previously submitted a complaint against Corbyn and other sitting MPs which the Labour Party has yet to acknowledge.

Following Starmer’s commitment to an independent disciplinary process, CAA submitted complaints against Corbyn and 15 other Labour MPs. They set a 6-month deadline.

Complaints relate to Corbyn, Diane Abbott, Tahir Ali, Mike Amesbury, Apsana Begum, Richard Burgon, Barry Gardiner, Kate Hollern, Afzal Khan, Rebecca-Long Bailey, Angela Rayner, Steve Reed, Lloyd Russell-Moyle, Barry Sheerman, Zarah Sultana and others.

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Thousands attend Stibbe to be Israel’s second astronaut in 2021 Chabad’s global virtual conference

BY LOUIS LANDSMANN

BY SIMCHA ABIR Thousands of Chabad-Lubavitch rabbis, lay leaders and families attended the annual International Conference of ChabadLubavitch Emissaries.

The four-day event, which finished on Sunday, normally draws 6,000 emissaries at the convention centre in New Jersey, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, delegates watched online from all over the world.

Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson and lawyer Nathan Lewin gave keynote addresses.

This year, sessions, hosted by Chabad centers in England, Ukraine and Israel, among others, focussed on challenges resulting from the pandemic including overcoming Zoom fatigue, how to deliver education in a virtual world and maintaining physical and emotional health under stress.

A simultaneous conference for children also took place.

Whilst the format of the conference is different goals remain the same - to connect, inspire and uplift. The huge gathering illustrated the everlasting presence of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, to view every challenge as an opportunity.

Emissaries from Johannesburg, South Africa, Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Cayman Islands opened the program showing footage from the Rebbe boldly declaring that every individual must adapt to circumstances, bringing the light of Torah wherever they go.

Lewin, an esteemed lawyer for more than six decades, has often defended religious liberty, including dozens of cases securing a right to display public menorahs on government property.

The global sight of the Chanukah menorah outside the White House, shopping centres or town squares is now a norm but this was not always the case after the Rebbe launched his awareness campaign in front of Independence Hall in Philadephia, which houses the Liberty Bell, in 1974.

This year, Lewin noted, there will be less public menorah lightings but it will not dim the spirit of Chanukah, as the Rebbe observed, the importance of seeing the menorah lit brings awareness. Lewin also recalled a high point of his career regarding the Library of Agudas Chassidei Chabad in the late 1980s. A federal judge in 1987 ruled the rare library collected by the Sixth Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson, belonged to the Chabad movement. Lewin was hailed as a hero in the synagogue at Chabad World Headquarters after winning

the case.

Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson, Chabad Belgravia in London, is a noted author and speaker. He spoke about his acclaimed book Positivity Bias. “The Rebbe’s message from the very nascent days of his leadership was, and remains, that we must view every situation as a chance to make a home for G-d.” he said. “The Rebbe taught us that pit stops can become Promised Lands.”

Rabbi Mendel Cohen, co-director of Chabad of Mariupl, Ukraine, explained how together with his wife, they had assisted a small Jewish community since 2014. Surviving an axe-wielding terrorist at his Chabad centre this summer, after he contracted COVID-19, emissaries raised funds to airlift him to Israel for life-saving treatment.

Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, vice chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, the educational arm of Chabad-Lubavitch, announced the purchase of a new Chabad centre in Hanover which will be named “Binyomin’s House” fulfilling a life-long dream of the late rabbi.

Rabbi Binyomin Wolff passed away in April aged 43. His wife, Shterna, and eight children are continuing Binyomin’s work.

Rabbi Dov Drizin, Chabad of Woodcliff Lake, N.J., delivered Chabad’s “COVID-19 Report”.

The conference concluded with the international roll call.

Logistics was a technical challenge with rabbis joining live programming from time zones up to 22 hours apart. Innovative solutions included a rolling melaveh malkah beginning after Shabbat in New Zealand and continuing around the globe and concluding in Alaska over 24 hours later. Despite many challenges, organisers felt the conference celebrating Jewish unity had to take place.

“We see the global nature of this year’s conference as an opportunity rather than a setback,” said Rabbi Kotlarsky ahead of proceedings. “This year’s unique format will allow us to showcase diverse Jewish communities around the globe and the ChabadLubavitch emissaries at their helm.”

Throughout the global pandemic, emissaries have continued to bring Judaism to those affected from the world’s largest Passover campaign to High Holiday and Succot initiatives.

The Rebbe launched the annual conference in 1983 to serve as a springboard for initiatives to aid emissaries that continue today.

Former IAF fighter pilot Eytan Stibbe will become Israel’s second astronaut when he joins a scientific mission to the International Space Station next year.

President Reuven Rivlin, the Ramon Foundation and Ministry of Science and Technology announced the news at the president’s residence on Monday.

“This is a day of great national joy and pride,” said a delighted Rivlin. “It’s not every day that we announce an Israeli astronaut is going to space. (Eytan) Stibbe will fly with the blue and white flag his uniform, reminding us that the sky is no longer the limit!”

Stibbe will begin his journey at the end of 2021 and follows Israel’s first astronaut, Ilan Ramon, who died during the Columbia space shuttle disaster in Eytan Stibbe

February 2003.

Stibbe will spend 200 hours onboard the station on a range of experiments using Israeli technology and scientific developments, President Rivlin’s office added in a statement.

Stibbe’s training includes a three-month period in the United States, Germany and Russia before the mission takes off from Florida.

The scientific and educational program will be led by the Ramon Foundation, Ministry of Science and Technology and Israeli Space Agency.

Ramon Foundation CEO Ran Livne heads the selection for experiments and technologies.

The bodies will call on scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs to send proposals for experiments.

Proposals will be evaluated by an independent scientific advisory committee under Inbal Krais, director of innovation at the Space Systems Division of Israel Aerospace Industries.

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

Tributes paid to Des

there will be less public menorah lightings but it will not dim the spirit of Chanukah

Des O’Connor

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM

BY ROBERT LEVY Tributes have been paid to Jewish entertainer Des O’Connor following his death.

Best known as a singer and TV presenter, O’Connor, 88, grew up in Stepney, where he had his barmitzvah. During his heyday, he presented Countdown and Take Your Pick.

Recording 36 albums, O’Connor had a number one in 1968, ‘I pretend’.

Amongst his shows, The Des O’Connor Show ran for eight series on ITV.

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Appearing with all the leading stars of past decades his appearances with Morecombe and Wise were particularly memorable.

O’Connor had the honour of compering the Royal Variety Performance in 1995 and 1997. In 2012, he celebrated its centenary with Bruce Forsyth, Ronnie Corbett and Jimmy Tarbuck.

Life long-time friend Tarbuck commented, “Cilla Black was a national hero.

The Beatles are national heroes and Des O’Connor was one.”

He added, “He (Des) was very generous in sharing the laughs and not all comedians are like that.”

Veteran singer Cliff Richard noted, “He was there at the start of my career and he was there during it and we worked together many, many times. We have lost a talented and true gentleman.”

In a statement, his agent said, “Des was so well-loved by absolutely everyone. He was a joy to work with, he was talented, fun, positive, enthusiastic, kind and a total professional.

“He loved life and considered enthusiasm almost as important as oxygen.”

O’Connor, awarded a CBE in 2008, played all the great theatres including the London Palladium as recently as 2015, he also starred at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas and Sydney Opera House.

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Swastikas and graffiti in Leeds and Oxford A swastika was found at a hall of residence at the University of Leeds earlier this month.

The University has confirmed graffiti has been removed. West Yorkshire Police is treating the incident as a hate crime.

“Officers are working with the university to identify suspects,” a spokesman said.

It is understood the university suspects the incident as a “one-off” indiscriminate act of vandalism by intruders. The university is unaware of direct threats made to students living in halls of residence.

Security patrols have reportedly been increased at halls.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or use options on the Police website. The crime reference is 13200552418.

Any students concerned about anti-Semitism on campus should call Campaign Against Antisemitism 0330 8220321, or e-mail campus@antisemitism.uk.

Neo-Nazi graffiti has also been found in an Oxfordshire park in Woodstock, including a swastika. Graffiti was reported to police as criminal damage and a hate crime.

Town Councillor Sharone Parnes has called on the Town Council to issue a “strongly worded” notice expressing “disgust” and for perpetrators to turn themselves in.

Cllr Parnes is reportedly appalled the council is reluctant to do so before further consultation.

CAA has contacted the Mayor for comment.

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Etihad new More Gulf states to accords predicts Bibi route Israel

BY SIMCHA ABIR The Knesset has ratified Israel’s normalisation accord with Bahrain.

The Gulf state followed the United Arab Emirates and Sudan which has put the Palestinians on the backfoot regarding statehood.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the vote and predicts more countries to follow the landmark deals and join “the peace circle” that will stand “as a wall against the radical Islam led

by Iran”.

“Peace deals with the UAE, Bahrain and normalisation with Sudan have not fallen on us from the sky,” he said at the start of the session. “It has come from a change in policy.

In the last decade, Israeli governments have systematically nurtured our power when it comes to security, economy, cyber, foreign relations and other spheres.

Israel is becoming closer with other Arab countries as well, including those that have not yet said it publicly.”

MKs from the Arab Joint List party jeered the Israeli leader but Netanyahu continued his address to them.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Reuven Rivlin have spoken with President-elect Joe Biden following the U.S. elections on Tuesday.

Biden stressed his deep commitment to the State of Israel and its security according to a statement by Netanyahu’s office.

Netanyahu said the special bond between Israel and the US is a fundamental component of Israel’s security and its policy.

The two will meet soon to discuss many issues, both stressed the need to continue bolstering the steadfast alliance between the US and Israel.

Biden congratulated Biden on his victory.

“There is nothing stronger than the friendship between the American people and the Israeli people, and the president of the United States of America has no greater friend than the president of the State of

“Today you have the opportunity to amend (the vote against the UAE deal). And if not today, we will give you many more chances later,” Netanyahu told Arab MKs. He thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for his role, describing him as “our great friend”.

And he took the opportunity to welcome President-elect Joe Biden. “I thank him for his firm stance against Iran, his consistent support (of Israel) in the UN, strengthening security ties and peace agreements. I welcome the fact that my friend (Joe) Biden, and with him, Kamela Harris, have also welcomed these agreements,” he noted.

Defence Minister and Prime Minister Benny Gantz called on the Palestinians to return to the negotiating table. “The Palestinian leadership has not understood that it is time to put away the excuses, return to the negotiating table and work together to find a solution,” Gantz reportedly said. “I call on Mahmoud Abbas and the Palestinian leadership, if you won’t do it for you, do it for your children. They, the future generation, deserve a future of peace.”

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Bibi, Rivlin and Biden hold first discussions

BY LEAH WAXLER

19 NOVEMBER 2020

Israel, as we have proved over the years,” he reportedly told Biden.

“As a long-standing friend of the State of Israel, you know that our friendship is based on values that are beyond partisan politics and that we have no doubt that, under your leadership, the United States is committed to Israel’s security and success.”

Rivlin invited Biden to his residence in Jerusalem.

“I was happy to welcome you to Jerusalem as vice president, and I would be happy to welcome you here when you come to Jerusalem as president,” he noted.

Earlier in the day, Netanyahu again refused to comment on who he believed had won the U.S. election when asked on Galey Israel Radio.

“Why do I have to express an opinion,” he reportedly replied. “They have an internal process, the Electoral College. I think everybody more or less understands what is apparently going to happen officially.”

Trump $23.37 billion arms deal to deter Iran US President Donald Trump has notified Congress of plans to sell 50 stealth F-35 fighter jets to the United Arab Emirates.

The much-publicised agreement is part of a $23.37 billion arms deal to deter the Iranian threat.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed the sale alongside the US’ Middle East peace efforts.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced concern over the deal as it could affect the balance of military power in the region. This has relented since Benny Gantz and U.S. Defence Minister Mark Esper reached a deal to guarantee Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge.

The Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee met to discuss the US-UAE sale on Monday.

During a heated debate, committee chairman Zvi Hauzer said discussions must continue.

Reuven Azar of the National Security Council denied Meretz leader Nitzan Horowitz claims Netanyahu was aware of the sale as part of the UAE accord.

Democrats could block the sale but it depends on the President-elect Joe Biden’s stance on Iran.

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UAE’s national airline Etihad Airways is launching daily scheduled year-round flights to Tel Aviv starting 28 March 2021.

The news offers a greater choice for point-to-point business and leisure travellers between the UAE and Israel.

Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad chief operating officer, reportedly said, “Following the signing of the new bilateral agreement, Etihad is delighted to announce a direct link between these important cities.

“The commencement of scheduled flights is a historic moment and as an airline, cements Etihad’s commitment to growing opportunities for trade and tourism not just between the two countries but also within the region and beyond.”

Departures will timed to connect via Abu Dhabi to gateways across the Etihad network including China, India, Thailand and Australia.

In a fast turn of events the announcement comes after Etihad recently became the first Gulf carrier to operate a return commercial flight to the destination. It also follows the normalisation of diplomatic ties between the nations last September.

IDF attacks Hamas targets Israel Defense Forces attacked Hamas targets after rockets were fired at southern and central Israel from the Gaza Strip on Sunday morning.

No injuries or damage were reported in Israel.

An IDF spokesperson confirmed targets included underground infrastructure and military positions.

Air raid sirens sounded in the early hours whilst the Iron Dome missile defence system intercepted rocket fire targeting Ashdod and areas of central Israel.

There were reports of explosions near Bat Yam which is close to Tel Aviv.

Precautions took place at Ben-Gurion Airport where some aircraft traffic was redirected.

The IDF was on high alert 12 months on from the killing of Islamic Jihad military commander Baha Abu al-Ata in Gaza City.

In related news, the IDF confirmed that a number of explosive devices had been discovered in Golan Heights near the border with Syria.

The IDF’s Engineering Corps dismantled devices planted inside Israeli territory.

No injuries were reported.

“We hold the Syrian government responsible for any act of aggression against Israel,” an IDF spokesperson said in a statement.

During the summer, the IDF discovered explosives in a similar location.

Four terrorists were shot and killed as they placed explosives near the border.

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Bibi bids for more Covid vaccines

BY DAVID SAFFER Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is attempting to secure extra doses of U.S. pharmaceutical Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine.

Moderna made global news with its announcement that its vaccine was 94.5% reliable in clinical trials.

“We have signed a supply agreement to a certain extent and are negotiating with them over additional supplies, and I hope that following this conversation, we may complete the negotiations quickly,” he reportedly explained.

“My policy is to bring as many vaccines as possible from as many sources as possible to as many citizens as possible in as little time as possible.”

Israel has procured a NIS 230 million ($66-million) agreement for a million and a half doses.

It is hoped Moderna’s vaccine will arrive by April.

Netanyahu also signed an agreement with Pfizer for up to 8 million doses of its vaccine last week.

The deal would enable four million citizens to be inoculated beginning in January.

“Israel will be among the first countries to receive Moderna’s vaccine,” Netanyahu reportedly noted. “My goal is to bring as many vaccines as possible, from as many countries as possible to as many citizens as possible as quickly as possible. This will not happen today or tomorrow. It will take more time, not years, but months. We are already seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. (But) until the vaccines arrive, and even afterward, we must not slacken or become complacent.”

Netanyahu called on Israeli citizens not to become complacent and follow the rules.

“Alongside your cooperation, we will continue to make the correct, balanced and responsible decisions,” he added.

“These decisions have put Israel in a very good place relative to the other countries of the world.”

Israel saw 613 new coronavirus cases in the latest Health Ministry figures. There are 130 patients on respirators. To date there have been 2,732 fatalities.

Netanyahu’s vaccine move comes as Covid measures have been further relaxed in recent days.

Israelis thronged to shopping centres on Tuesday but it led to long queues and

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unseemly arguments between frustrated customers waiting up to two hours with four people allowed inside a shop at a time.

In some cases, security guard attempts to disperse crowds failed as customers refused to leave their places in a queue.

Shop owners were criticised for lack of planning.

Owners of open-air markets unable to open led to protests in Tel Aviv. Some owners flouted Covid rules resulting in fines by Municipality inspectors.

In spite of retracting measures there has been a tightening of the lockdown in ‘red’ cities

grades 11 and 12 before the end of the month.

The government is also aiding students with emergency funds.

Liaising with the National Union of Israel Students, an additional NIS 800 million is now available in assistance for students in distress.

“We will continue to bring additional assistance programmes and look after all citizens of Israel,” Netanyahu reportedly explained.

Proposals will expand scholarships whilst a national task force of students led by the Social Equality Ministry Youth Authority and Union of Israel Students will see a preference for employing students daycare centers by local authorities and promotion of youth employment along with more internships.

“Approval of the assistance plan for students constitutes major news for the student public who are the future generation,” Finance Minister Katz reportedly said. “I will continue to act in the face of the various challenges to encourage employment and lead the economy to growth.”

Higher and Continuing Education Minister Elkin added, “This emergency assistance will help students deal with the coronavirus crisis and continue their studies.”

Social Equality and Pensioners Minister Cohen, commented, “In effect we are establishing a national task force of students throughout the country that will act to dispel the severe loneliness of older adults during the coronavirus crisis. These are two very important and worthy goals and we will act so that this gets underway as soon as possible since the need on the ground is urgent.”

A National Union of Israel Students Chairman spokesman said, “We fought and we have brought great news for students in Israel. Signing the agreement comes after long months in which we waged an uncompromising struggle together with the student associations in order to make certain that every student who was hurt economically would be eligible for assistance which would allow them to survive the crisis, reintegrate into the labour market and continue their academic studies.

“Alongside the assistance programs for students, we will continue to support Israeli society as a whole and in the framework of the agreement we will establish a national student network for providing support in the frameworks of education and to additional populations that were hurt economically by the crisis.”

The union thanked ministers and academic institutions for recognising the importance of students to Israeli society.

“My policy is to bring as many vaccines as possible from as many sources as possible to as many citizens as possible in as little time as possible.” and a ‘night curfew’ in ‘orange’ cities though there is a shortening of transition between an ‘orange’ and ‘red’ city.

Sadly, ultra-orthodox communities continue to violate restrictions.

Hundreds of ultra-Orthodox residents of Bnei Brak clashed with police when officers closed a synagogue with worshippers praying inside on Tuesday night.

Forces were reportedly attacked by protesters necessitating reinforcements.

“The synagogue appeared shut but after closer inspection was found to hold dozens of people congregating in violation of the law while endangering the health of the people present,” a police spokesman said. A NIS 5,000 fine was handed out.

Netanyahu though has voiced renewed optimism in the battle against the pandemic.

“We have the possibility of exiting from the coronavirus,” he reportedly said. “It has been within our grasp for several months. We will not endanger the health and lives of the citizens of Israel.”

Netanyahu also addressed the economy noting assistance plans for business owners, the self-employed, those seeking work, the handicapped and students.

He added, Despite the unprecedented health challenge, our economy is strong.”

In related news, school pupils in Grades 5 and 6 return next week followed by

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CAA concerened over Ruth George standing in local elections

Ruth Green

PHOTO: FACEBOOK

BY LEAH WAXLER Campaign Against Antisemitism has voiced concern following the announcement that former Labour MP Ruth George has been selected as a candidate for the Party in upcoming local council elections.

CAA registered a complaint against Ms George on the day the report into Labour anti-Semitism by the Equality and Human Rights Commission was published.

Despite a complaint being outstanding and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s pledging to tear out anti-Semitism “by its roots” from the Party, the former MP has served as a County Councillor for Whaley Bridge and Blackbrook for the last nine months.

George lost her seat at the 2019 General Election but will stand as a candidate in May elections.

A CAA spokesperson said: “The continued service of (Ruth) George as a Labour councillor and now her selection as a candidate for the coming elections, while our complaint against her relating to antisemitism remains outstanding, is difficult to square with (Sir Keir) Starmer’s pledge to tear out antisemitism ‘by its roots’.

“That complaint, along with the other complaints we have submitted against sitting and former MPs and other officeholders, must be investigated by an independent disciplinary process and concluded within six months.”

Meantime, controversial councillor, Cllr Jo Bird, is believed to be under investigation by Labour for the third time in recent years after reportedly suggesting anti-Semitism is being privileged over other forms of racism.

Cllr Bird represents the Bromborough Ward on Wirral Council and has a long history of controversy relating to Jews, including renaming ‘due process’ in the Labour Party as “Jew process”, for which she was suspended.

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Reduced coroner delays possible

Board of Deputies meeting with Nadine Dorries MP

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The Board of Deputies held a Zoom meeting with Nadine Dorries MP, Minister for Patient Safety, which could herald significantly reduced coroner delays.

Ms Dorries is overseeing the introduction of medical examiners, now based in NHS trusts, and aiming to scrutinise deaths, improve death certification and reduce unnecessary referrals to coroners.

The Minister requested the Board engage with civil servants to ensure medical examiners are effective.

BoD proposals include that on referral to the coroner, the medical examiner should advise whether the body needs to be retained further and that medical examiners should be able to organise non-invasive autopsies.

Medical examiners should also have duty of care obligations to the deceased and bereaved family.

“The Jewish community has positive

relations with the vast majority of coroners, and we appreciate all their hard work on behalf of the community,” said Amanda Bowman, BoD Vice President.

The Board informed the Minister there is a good relationship with Chief Medical Examiner, Dr Alan Fletcher, and Lead London Medical Examiner, Dr Mette Rodgers, pending passage of legislation.

“There is no doubt that in recent years increased coroner referral and decreased hospital autopsies has led in some cases to difficulties for our community,” noted Ms Bowman.

“We appreciate Ms Dorries’ support and hope that her proposal that working with civil servants on the medical examiner reform will bring real benefits”.

Professor David Katz, medical advisor to the Board, Sidney Sinitsky of the Addas Yisroel Burial Society and Rabbi Stanley Coten who represents Jewish hospital chaplains in NHS structures attended the discussion.

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Al Qaeda’s Abdullah assassinated Al Qaeda’s no.2, Abdullah Ahmed Abdullah, was assassinated three months ago according to the New York Times.

The attack was carried out by Israeli operatives at the request of US President Donald Trump’s administration according to the report.

Israeli media reported Abdullah, living under an alias Abu Mohammed al-Masri, was planning attacks against Israelis and Jews around the world. According to Bicom, the news

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is embarrassing for the Iranian security system but an operational success for Israel and US. The timing also illustrates to President-elect Joe Biden, the strength of Israel-US intelligence ties.

Abdullah was killed on the 22nd anniversary of the 1998 bombings of US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, which killed 224 people and wounded hundreds.

Abdullah died along with his daughter, Miriam, widow of Osama bin Laden’s son, Hamza.

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Amanpour uses Kristallnacht to score political points

BY JAMES J MARLOW Last Monday, senior CNN anchor-woman Christiane Amanpour issued an apology on her show, following worldwide condemnation of her comments comparing President Donald Trump’s presidency with the Nazi Kristallnacht pogrom. This outrage did not just come from Republicans or Conservatives, but also many liberal Jewish and non-Jewish groups, mostly based in America and Israel, but some in Europe and throughout the world.

It all began with her introduction to CNN’s flagship foreign affairs program on Thursday 12 November, in which Amanpour opened with, “This week 82 years ago, Kristallnacht happened,” she said in the monologue.

“It was the Nazis’ warning shot across the bow of our human civilization that led to genocide against a whole identity, and in that tower of burning books, it led to an attack on fact, knowledge, history and truth. “After four years of a modern-day assault on those same values by Donald Trump, the Biden-Harris team pledges a return to norms, including the truth.”

Amanpour wrote the script whilst video of book burnings were being shown on the screen, before she began speaking.

As the chief international television host

with almost 40 years-experience, she should have known better than to take great pains to erase the word, Jews, while speaking three times about Nazi attacks and genocide.

At best, she exploited and trivialized the Holocaust to make her analogy. At worst, as Tim Kaine put it in 2017, she engaged in a form of Holocaust denial.

Christiane Amanpour is an Iranian British national who studied in the United States. She married James Rubin in 1998 who is Jewish, and who served as U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs in the Bill Clinton administration, so Amanpour should have known better.

By the way, she and Rubin have since divorced, but the question remains, what was she thinking, especially as she knows the Holocaust is such a sensitive subject.

We are living in a time of rising anti-Semitism, shocking ignorance about the Holocaust, and so many deniers

of what actually happened. Christiane Amanpour has a worldwide global audience on CNN, PBS and social media, and what she says matters.

She could have given an account of the events of that period on 9-10 November, 1938 in Germany and Austria. But instead Amanpour used the Kristallnacht anniversary, to score political points.

Amanpour’s hatred towards Donald Trump and everything he stands for, weaponised Kristallnacht, which on that night, was an attack on Jews, a word she could not utter in her introduction.

On that night, dozens of Jewish people were killed, around 30,000 were arrested and sent to Buchenwald, Dachau, Sachsenhausen, and thousands of Jewish businesses, shops and synagogues were smashed, looted and burnt to the ground.

Kristallnacht was NOT an attack on “fact, knowledge, history and truth” as she said in her introduction. It signalled

… she preferred to deliberately compare Trump’s last four years in office with genocide, an affront to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.

the start of the impending Nazi genocide against the Jewish people, and Christiane Amanpour knew that.

But she preferred to deliberately compare Trump’s last four years in office with genocide, an affront to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.

I recognise she apologised last Monday night with the words, “I regret any pain my statement may have caused. “My point was to say how democracy can potentially slip away and how we must always zealously guard our democratic values.”

But to juxtapose Adolf Hitler and all his evils, with President Donald Trump is painful, and an offense to the memory of the Nazi era and the systematic annihilation of six million Jewish men, women and children.

Call me cynical, but I suspect her apology was based on the tens of thousands of tweets she received, along with pressure from Jewish organisations in America and Israel, including members of the Knesset.

I would also lay a bet that the news network, CNN took this up with her.

And you wonder why people don’t believe the news any longer.

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

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

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

HEBREW ALEPHBET-GREEK ALPHABETA

12 NOVEMBER 2020

Dear Editor I am indebted to Robert Feather for his comments on my letter. While acknowledging his points, my main complaint is that it was inexcusable to totally neglect the significant contribution of Hebrew. After all, the names of many Greek letters are clearly taken from the Hebrew ‘aleph bet’, etc, ultimately giving us the word ‘alphabet.’

Surely this speaks for itself.

Sincerely Elia Meghnagi

Send in your comments to letters@thejewishweekly.com

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CORRECTING THE CORRECTION 14 LETTERS

29 OCTOBER 2020

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Dear Editor, Letters to the The letter from Elia Meghnagi in your 29th Editor October issue, gets a few things wrong, He is correct that Greek derived from proto-Canaanite but it in turn was derived from Egyptian hieroglyphics.

The earliest form of an alphabet, dating to c1,800 BCE, was found at Wadi el-Hol near Luxor in Egypt. It was developed by Semitic workers copying Egyptian inscriptions at a turquoise mine. The March issue of Biblical Archaeology Review describes the process in detail.

Send in your comments to letters@thejewishweekly.com

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

SHAME ON YOU, BBC

Dear Editor, What was heralded as a well researched programme on the history of the alphabet turned out to be a ‘carefully crafted politically correct’ essay on the history of writing.

How they carefully managed to ignore or neglect the vital contribution of the Jews was masterly.

The only concession was a quickly uttered remark about ‘palaeo-Hebrew’.

They completely ignored the fact that the Greeks took the old Hebrew alphabet (via the the Phoenicians, close friends and neighbours of the Jews) and turned it back to front, mirror image style, so that they could write it left to right. The reason for Hebrew being written right to

left because originally the writing process was chiselled.

The Greeks took on the Hebrew names of the letters for their own, hence alpha, beta, gamma, delta, which have no intrinsic meaning in Greek, as they have in Hebrew.

What showed the shameful effort of the BBC to (I assume) appease their Egyptian hosts, is the complete absence of Hebrew writers in a hall full of calligraphists of every type: Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Roman, Indian etc.

I show here an example of the three main western alphabets, and how they were derived from the Hebrew language.

Elia Meghnagi

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BY DAVID SAFFER echoed Netanyahu’ s projection to compound Israelis’ Israel faces a nationwide worst fears.

During a tough beyond Simchat Torah lockdown few to curb a second wave in attempts the under-fire coalition days for of the coro- ment govern- Benjamin navirus pandemic.

Netanyahu Edelstein backed PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK Israel’s leader while Health Prime Minister Benjamin Ministry Di- and Ne- rector-Gene tanyahu’s three-week eventual ral Prof. Chezy lockdown noted Levy come out of safety measures to prediction before Israel would not lockdown. the High Holy come out But they have their of lockdown after Days is now set to Succot extend beyond work cut as it was out as “almost at the point a month. an IDF report of no Wednesday illustrated published Netanyahu has warned return”.

“It would not be grim news less than a will hospitals that Israel is now month, it could take reach capacity to among world treat 1,500 leaders tanyahu told media longer,” Ne- seriously ill patients in daily new cases today. per capoutlets this ita.

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Dear Editor Thank you for putting together the tributes in last week’s edition.

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l also wrote “ Judaism’s Life-Changing Ideas” - a weekly reading of the Jewish Bible , September 2020, Maggid books. May I highly recommend that all families read an essay each week at their shabbos table, particularly with shul’s currently closed. My family read the chapter on “ Hayei Sara - the world’s oldest man’ last shabbos and we had a wonderful discussion.

May Rabbi Lord Sacks’ memory be a constant blessing.

Best wishes Juliet Solomon Dear Editor On hearing the devastating loss of our beloved Rabbi Jonathan Sacks ‫צזל‬, heartfelt outpourings of grief, fitting tributes and accolades have been paid to the Rav ‫ צזל‬for outstanding contributions to the Jewish world and to the world at large, as a leading voice in the area of Ethics, Morality, a scholar of unequalled depth and breadth of academia, an orator of tremendous erudition, a giant among giants, etcetera etcetera.

So much more can be related of this Tzaddik (righteous person)! However, I place greater emphasis on Rabbi Jonathan’s exceptional personal character traits (middot).

As a privileged student of HaRav Jonathan at Jews’ College, where I studied for 6 years, and also a family friend, the two Personal &qualities confidential that stand out were personal Customer Service the Rav’s extreme Price Offered Instantly Modesty and Chesed.

Same Day payment was self effacing, yet he Rabbi Jonathan made everyone feel a ‘SOMEBODY’. no matter who, encouraging and inspiring us to reach our potential. Rabbi Jonathan genuinely rejoiced in everyone’s Semachot and also achievements, however insignificant. The Rav treated everyone with great respect to the extent he deflected his own glory!

HaRav Jonathan knew the true meaning of Chesed - unrequited love for a fellow being. The Psalmist states “Olam Chesed yibaneh” - “ the world is built on (the quality of ) Chesed”. Whilst acknowledging the input of his Rock, Rebetzin Elaine, many will testify to HaRav Jonathan’s continuous Chesed in visiting sick, comforting mourners, offering help and support where needed, phone calls, letters of enquiry etc. These qualities are more precious than anything else!

In answer to our letter of Mazal Tov on receiving his Knighthood, HaRav Jonathan wrote ‘Honours in themselves are not important-.....it is the honour we give, not the honour we receive, that matters most” continuing, that the award represents ‘...a renewed public recognition of the extraordinary contribution Jews have made to Jewish life’.

What sheer humility attributing his Award to the community!!!

I would like to recount two touching anecdotes! My husband Herbert ‫ זל‬were ‘aficionados’ and always attended HaRav Jonathan’s Annual LSJS lectures before the Yamim Noraim. One particular year, I could not get a ‘babysitter’ and rather than miss the evening, I took my youngest brother Nissim ‫זל‬, who was born with the chord around his neck stopping the supply of oxygen, which sadly affected his brain. I explained beforehand the ‘protocol’ and sat next to Nissim holding LETTERS 25

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ADAM MOSES ARTICLE ON G.PHC RULING Dear Editor, As a retired pharmacist ,I found last week’s article shocking.

Thank your paper so much for the reporting this .

I believe that it was reported in the English press but I didn’t see it in the other Jewish media.

Feel I need to to monitor any further movement if any in this matter .

Best wishes Gary Boorman

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his hands - out of character, he did not say a word throughout the two hour or more Shiur! He was visibly entranced by the Rav’s animated and inimitable delivery!

Afterwards I praised Nissim and approaching HaRav Sacks I proudly told him of Nissim’s amazing behaviour!

HaRav Jonathan beamed and Nissim immediately tugged very tightly at HaRav Jonathan’s beard, exclaiming loudly “I also have a beard”! I gently explained to Nissim that it was our “Grand Rabbi” and that he should let go of the beard.

Although Nissim kept holding it, HaRav Jonathan immediately warmly put his arms around Nissim and said “Nissim, it is quite alright, you can pull my beard”!

People stood around in amazement on witnessing the Rav’s genuine and caring response!

HaRav Jonathan was literally the first, besides Family, to phone to offer Nechamah on hearing of my Beloved Nissim’s ‫ זל‬very sudden death in his sleep so much so that the doctor insisted on a Post Mortem! HaRav was phenomenally comforting and I drank up his every word. “You know Flora, Nissim was a true Tzadik (a righteous) person. He was too good for this world! He is now in Heaven (with HaShem). His death was a ‘Nesheekat HaShem’” - a kiss from G-d!

Harav Jonathan on leaving the Shivah visit, said words to the effect “Flora I am going to send you something nice that will cheer you up”. Half an hour later, the driver delivered a copy of the Rav’s first Koren Rosh HaShanah Machzor inscribed with the words: “To Flora .....‫עמו״ש‬. In memory of your beloved Nissim. ‫זכר צדיק לברכה‬, May ‫ה׳‬ bring you long life… Jonathan Sacks”!

Needless to say - every Rosh Hashanah, since 2011, I have cherished using it, inspired by its sublime and meaningful messages.

HaRav Jonathan had the qualities of a Meshiach - highly respected and loved by all who knew him, unifying diverse peoples, races and faith in the belief of our One Just G-d. Unfortunately we were just not worthy. We have suffered an irreplaceable loss! “May his memory be a Blessing” for his beloved Rebetzin Elaine, children Joshua, Dina, Gila, brothers Alan, Brian, Elliot, his entire Family, Am Yisrael and the world. ‫מן‬ ‫השמים תנוחמו‬

In deep sorrow Flora (Frank), Simone, Richard, Gideon and the entire Family

19 NOVEMBER 2020

DEDICATION TO THE MEMORY OF BEN-ZION CHROMAN Dear Editor During the past week - with the news dominated by the American elections, the pandemic and the sad passing of Rabbi Lord Sacks - it has been easy to miss the twelfth anniversary of the Mumbai terror attacks. I appreciate that this is a rather long poem, but I hope that your readers will find some comfort from it - in that after darkness, there is always light.

Marvin Shaw Stanmore Twelve years ago tonight Mumbai, India Twelve years ago tonight Just before Shabbat We heard the news Mumbai, India Was under attack Four venues Were under siege One venue was Jewish Chabad House, Mumbai Twelve years ago tonight The moon was hidden As it is always The night before The Jewish new month The Jewish New Moon He was also hidden In Chabad House Mumbai Terrorists had entered That’s all we knew Just before Shabbat.

We tried to celebrate The Jewish Sabbath But our minds Were only in one place

Yerushalayim Ir shalom City of Peace.

He spoke to me In laconic tones His soft American English Coated with Hebrew accent He was one of the family A friend A loving person.

Twelve years ago tonight He left Motti - aged four and a half Seri - aged one and threequarters And Riki - aged just three months I remember Visiting Emuna Several times In sea-sidey Bat Yam Bat Yam Daughter of the sea A minute from where he used to daven In Bobov Riki would invariably run up to me At breakneck speed

As soon as Shabbos ended Twelve years ago tonight

To embrace me To jump on me To play with me

Ben-Zion Kroman was there Had been there

Followed by shyer sister Seri.

Nine months ago Riki, aged eleven

In Chabad House

Rushed up to me At breakneck speed

Twelve years ago tonight.

To embrace me

I remember When he married

At Luton airport On her first visit to England.

My niece Emuna Haya Emuna - faith Haya - life I remember Sitting next to her in the taxi Telling her how I’d miss her…

Yet I was delighted for her She had just married Bentzi.

I remember walking down the road with him In Yerushalayim

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BREAVEMENTS

Chabad House Mumbai India.

We turned on our TV screens…

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Tonight As I write It sounds like wartime

He used to visit China To do Shomer work there

SHEILA MORRIS

Yet his was his first visit to India

Our Mother and Grandmother Sheila Morris passed away on Saturday 14th November, after a short illness.

And he was due to return to Israel The very next day To see his lovely wife and children…

She was much loved and now joins our father Stanley who passed in February.

Rest in peace mum and dad together again.

Love the Morris and Brooks families.

Who knows why Such things happen?

Emuna eventually married again She had another child

THE WESTERN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

RABBI LORD JONATHAN SACKS

That is how, those of faith Respond To tragedy

‫נפלה עטרת ראשינו‬ ‫מורינו הרב יעקב צבי בן דוד אריה זצ״ל‬

Her new husband Avrahami Her new baby Elisheva Are players on G-d’s stage

Western Marble Arch Synagogue, the Western Charitable Foundation with Rabbi Lionel Rosenfeld deeply mourn the untimely passing of our beloved spiritual leader and friend Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks.

First, minor players in this story of tragedy

We wish long life to his wife Lady Elaine, son Joshua, daughters Dina and Gila and the extended family.

Then major players in Emuna’s story Of triumph Over tragedy…

The year after his death I was there In Bat Yam For a Hachnasat Sefer Torah The community were celebrating A new Sefer Torah But also Bentzi’s life On his Yahrzeit.

Eleven years later I think of him Of the events before and after Mumbai Yet I also try to forget What happened Twelve years ago tonight.

Fireworks blaze in the air On the Hindu festival of Diwali Hinduism is the largest religion in India…

Twelve years ago tonight Who knows what happened exactly?

In Mumbai India.

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19 NOVEMBER 2020

Thousands perform good deeds on Mitzvah Day PHOTOS: COURTESY OF MITZVAH DAY CREDITS: YAKIR ZUR, LAWRENCE PURCELL

BY DAVID SAFFER Covid-19 could not stop thousands of volunteers from 300 British communities, organisations and schools performing good deeds on Mitzvah Day last Sunday.

The coronavirus pandemic resulted in the postponement of traditional projects but a host of activities included pop-up collection points in synagogue car parks, collections for foodbanks and virtual Zoom tea parties at care homes. Volunteers donated blood, wrote handmade cards to those who are lonely, made socially distanced doorstep visits to neighbours, baked cakes for key workers and made masks for hospices among a plethora of acts of kindness.

Mitzvah Day initiatives also took place in 30 countries including Brazil, South Africa, Canada, Bermuda and across Europe.

The UK’s biggest faith-based day of social action involving Jews, Muslims, Christians and other faiths has been running for over a decade and is established on the religious calendar.

This year focussed on food poverty and loneliness. Mitzvah’s will be extended throughout November due to the national battle against Covid.

Mitzvah Day receives cross-party, crossfaith and cross-denominational support.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson led tributes.

“Mitzvah Day has become a great British tradition,” he said. “I am delighted and not at all surprised to see all the inspirational Mitzvah Day volunteers rise to the challenge of COVID, not just maintaining this fantastic Jewish-led day of good deeds, but going further and creating an entire month of mitzvahs.

“People of all faiths are working together, side by side in spirit, to ensure volunteering efforts continue safely at a time when people need them the most. Mazel Tov on your fantastic achievements and thank you to everyone who is working so hard to fill November with kindness.”

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer joined events at South Hampstead Synagogue.

“Never has it been more important to show kindness, give back and make a difference to the local community,” he said.

Mayor Sadiq Khan tweeted, “For people of Jewish faith, Mitzvah Day is a time to meaningfully help others in your community. It’s this generosity of spirit that helps make London the greatest city in the world, & show that our diversity is our strength.”

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis congratulated Mitzvah Day for encouraging everyone to do more for those who are seriously affected by the pandemic.

Georgina Bye, Mitzvah Day chief executive, hailed volunteers’ and coordinators’ flexibility, tenacity and creativity for making the event a success.

She added, “This year’s Mitzvah Day once again shows us how powerful it is when people of all faiths and backgrounds come together to support local community needs and how every mitzvah and every act of kindness, no matter how small, truly matters.”

Laura Marks is the charity’s founder and chair. She noted, “This is no ordinary year. I feel lucky and blessed to see so many people supporting others in this time of crisis.”

Over 80 people participated in Camp Simcha’s Joely Bear Appeal blood drive at Edgware Blood Donor Centre.

Almost 1000 volunteers in communities from London to Manchester and Birmingham took part in GIFT initiatives that included 50 street food collections.

Primary and secondary schools, shuls and charities were involved in activities.

In conjunction with Birmingham University Jewish Society, students baked cookies and cakes, filled mugs with chocolates, coffee and hot chocolate sachets for staff at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

Israeli Charity Shelanu, in connection with GIFT, made sandwiches and distributed blankets for the homeless in central London. And young professionals sorted through food donated to those struggling in communities.

Synagogues and cheders ran collections for GIFT’s annual toy drive, which sees new toys and gifts delivered to thousands of children of all denominations spending

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the festive season in hospital.

A partnership between March of the Living UK and the Holocaust Survivors Centre saw over 100 members of the Holocaust survivor community across north west London receive a winter food package. Recipients welcomed a socially distanced chat with volunteers.

FZY and Young Jewish Care volunteers helped pack and deliver winter food packages.

Cassie Matus, MOTL chief executive commented, “It is a very lonely time for the survivor community so this project hopes to bring a bit of joy to them on Mitzvah Day. We are also aiding the survivors to do a mitzvah by collecting items from them to donate to gift.”

Mill Hill Synagogue brought Mitzvah Day to the community with an army of volunteers including children who made cards and wrote messages of support to the elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

Youngsters delivered cards door-to-door at social distance together with nice pot plants and flowers.

Organisers Judith Mizrahi and Debbie Collins, said, “This year in particular it was so important to take Mitzvah Day out to the local community. Touching base with our neighbours and seeing their faces light up at this small gesture really epitomises the spirit of the day.”

Zoom came to the rescue as Pinner

19 NOVEMBER 2020 Synagogue provided meals and goods for local charities.

In a day of social action team members delivered collections to the Goods for Good charity in Watford and 350 frozen meals and other food items to Hillingdon Crisis Support.

South Hampstead shul collected and distributed food and toiletries to those in need. A COVID-safe collection point outside the building was set up for members and local residents to donate items.

Goods collected will benefit Castlehaven Food Bank, St Mary’s Church and New Horizon Youth Centre, which helps homeless or vulnerable teenagers and young adults across London.

Local faith leaders, school children, parents, an anti-hunger charity, Jewish youth group and members of the public were united at Borehamwood and Bushey’s Mitzvah Day. Messages of peace and friendship were streamed live from faith leaders and local charity Gratitude.

Drawings from Yavneh Primary School and Yavneh College ran on a loop welcoming the Muslim community to their new mosque in Borehamwood.

At Hartspring Lane Community Centre, Bushey, volunteers were joined by FZY and Muslim community leaders to participate in a food distribution session.

As part of the week’s activities, Gratitude ran a kosher food bank at Yavneh College.

Rabbi Jeff Berger, interfaith advisor, noted, “This community-building spirit gave us all a sense of inspiration and pride.”

Stanmore & Canons Park Synagogue put on activities for the community including four Collectathons and a toy collection for Camp Simcha.

Members of the community offered houses as drop-off points and all activities complied with COVID guidelines. Younger members decorated bags for NHS key workers filled with snacks and toiletries.

They also planted daffodil bulbs in wellies to be part of a display in the shul garden when the synagogue reopens.

Stanmore Knitters knitted hats and bonding squares which will be donated to Northwick Park Hospital’s Neo Natal Unit.

At Hampstead Garden Suburb, the community donated bags of clothes for Goods for Good, asylum seekers and refugees, glasses for World Vision, toys for charities in Israel and Camp Simcha, books for GIFT, bicycles for Project Bike and food crates for GIFT, Foodbank Aid and Soup Kitchen in Muswell Hill. There were also cards for the NHS, Police and essential services created by cheder children, youth members baked challah breads for the homeless and families collected bags of litter in the neighbourhood.

Members of Belmont Synagogue held online events, collections and socially distanced gifts were delivered for different charities and the local community.

As well as making Chanukah cards to send to disabled children in Israel, masks for St John’s Hospice and decorated tissue boxes for Jewish Women’s Aid, the Knitting Circle made items for good causes.

Members also brought food items for Harrow Food Bank and toys for Camp Simcha. Volunteers planted donated shrubs in the shul garden, whilst young

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members delivered cookies to the local ambulance and fire station.

A highlight of the day was an afternoon tea which volunteers delivered to senior members of the shul.

Elsewhere, local charities supported older and vulnerable people across the Borough of Barnet by ‘Bringing Smiles To Your Door’ just before Mitzvah Day over a zoom chat.

The campaign included deliveries of plants, bulbs and laminated pictures from nursery and school children and uniformed groups to accompany regular essential food shopping, parcels and meals.

Organisations participating included Age UK Barnet, Good Neighbour Scheme, JAMI, The Flower Bank and Joining Young and Old (JOY).

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COMMUNITY 17 Helen Newman, Age UK Barnet chief executive, said, “Initiatives like this, where the local community comes together to show we care, can make a huge difference to someone who feels that they’ve been overlooked.”

Vicky Rachel, JAMI noted, “Maintaining social connections and looking out for one another has never been more important. Collaboration and solidarity in supporting our community through acts of kindness will be a significant factor in minimising the devastating social impact of Covid-19.”

The 20th Finchley Jewish scout group made old t-shirts into tote bags which will be used by Leket for collecting fruit and vegetables. They also made rainbow cards to deliver to care homes.

Among events around the country, Whitefield Synagogue ran two tracks for Mitzvah Day. A drive by food bank saw 13 teams collect £5000 worth of goods for GIFT who run a kosher food bank in Manchester.

The shul was also turned into a drive-by food bank hub for donations.

Bar and Bat mitzvah clubs were challenged to raise their age in Kilograms, 12 Kg for girls and 13 Kg for boys, which was easily achieved.

Smiles partnered with PJ Library who read ‘The Mitzvah Magician’ to 30 children who decorated a box filled with cookies to give to a person living near their home. Both programmes were a success.

Meantime, the Cumbrian ‘Mitzvah Day’ team ran across the county including clothes recycling banks situated in Lake District National Park car parks in Ambleside and Hawkshead.

Volunteers collected clothes to be upcycled and sold by White Rose in their shops with proceeds going towards funding for the Aegis Trust.

Project ImpACT’s events began with a Bar/Bat Mitzvah programme with Norwood.

Volunteers made Chanukah cards for Norwood residents, led a Zoom session for Jewish Care residents that included a 1960’s music quiz and made vegetable lasagne for the homeless.

Aside from a Cookathon, Jamie Oliver made a surprise guest appearance whilst 100’s of meals was delivered to food banks including JW3 and Unitas.

In Carlisle, Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Colonel Peter McCall, was joined by Rabbi Berger and Imam Abdur Rashid at an online multicultural event.

Volunteers included students from Bristol, Leeds and Edinburgh.

The programme, Minutes for Miles, was set up by Abigail Mann, supported by Jewish Volunteers Network, to aid refugees with tuition for a UK driving licence.

Chai Cancer Care delivered care packages to Oncology departments at University College Hospital, Marie Curie Care, Hampstead and Royal Free to express gratitude for care provided to patients, including Chai’s clients, especially during Covid-19 when they couldn’t see loved ones.

Chai volunteers delivered packages filled with cosmetics, vouchers and body creams.

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19 NOVEMBER 2020

10,000 watch AJEX remembrance ceremony online Over 10,000 people across the world watched the AJEX Remembrance Ceremony online to remember the dedication and sacrifice of our Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women on Sunday.

AJEX expect the commemoration to reach more over the coming days as people share footage of a remarkable initiative.

In addition to the online event, Westminster City Council and the Metropolitan Police recognised the importance of the AJEX 86th Annual Parade and Remembrance Ceremony.

AJEX were duly given permission to go ahead with a small, brief ceremony at the Cenotaph, Whitehall on the day.

Brigadier Simon Goldstein laid the AJEX national wreath, AJEX national chairman, Mike Bluestone, the Corps of Commissionaires wreath and Lt Colonel Danny Sharpe the Jewish servicemen who have died since WW2 wreath.

Fiona Palmer welcomed having a chance to honour fallen servicemen and women in the Jewish community who fought to defend our freedoms within the constraints of Covid regulations.

“We are committed to continuing this traditional presence which has been been taking place since the 1930s,” she said.

As for the online event, comments of praise, remembrance and thanks flowed throughout the ceremony from individuals and organisations.

Large numbers of individuals of all ages and representatives of many national and global veterans and community organisations joined the event, spanning the generations from scout groups and primary school children to veterans of the Second World War and National Service.

Narrated by newsreader and TV

presenter Natasha Kaplinsky, the event included a pre-recorded symbolic ceremony at the Cenotaph and historic footage from past Parades honouring all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice whilst on service to the Crown.

The Ceremony included prayers, wreath laying and a two-minute silence. Buglers from the Rifles Regiment played the Last Post and Reveille. Adon Olam was sang by school children from Nancy Reuben Primary School and the central ceremony concluded with the National Anthem.

Highlighting the way in which the legacy of remembrance is being passed onto the next generation, representatives from the Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade also took part in the pre-recording.

AJEX National Chairman, Mike Bluestone, opened the event, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Marie Van der Zyl, President of the Board of Deputies, Baroness Annabel Goldie DL, Minister of State for Defence in the House of Lords, The Venerable Martyn Gough QHC, Chaplain of the Fleet and Archdeacon for the Royal Navy, AJEX Chaplain Rabbi Major Reuben Livingstone and Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg all participated.

Bluestone was proud of AJEX’s efforts in marking this year’s parade online.

“We were determined more than ever to honour those that served, and although we could not meet in person, we still came together online to remember,” he said. “I thank everyone for joining us to share this vital act of Remembrance.”

Bluestone added: “May we all be able to meet again to parade next year at The Cenotaph. We will continue to remember the contribution of our community to HM Armed Forces.”

National Chairman Mike Bluestone at the Cenotaph with veteran Ron Shelley for the AJEX 2020 Remembrance Ceremony

The AJEX Parade and Ceremony has been a major annual event for the UK Jewish community, since its beginnings in the 1930’s by kind permission of the late King George V. Ahead of the event, Her Majesty The Queen, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Una Cleminson, Chair of The Royal British Legion, sent letters of support.

As part of the AJEX 2020 Campaign, school children wore red on Friday, individuals across the community recited a

special Remembrance Prayer at home on AJEX Shabbat, veterans hosted live Zoom Q&A’s and AJEX created a buzz on social media with people posting Remembrance photos, pledges, sharing stories and changing their social media profile picture.

To further follow and support AJEX visit: www.ajex.org.uk If you would like to watch the 2020 AJEX Ceremony of Remembrance you can view it here: https://www.youtube.com/AJEX_JMA

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COMMUNITY 19

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Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Primary School Reception children and staff dressed in Pyjamas on Friday for BBC1 Children in Need.

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Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Reception children pictured at a table with some of the food brought in by the children for GIFT on Friday, the UK ’Day of Kindness’.

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BY ESTHER ULLMAN At the beginning of November, Rebbetzin Joanne Dove of SEED in London, hosted a trip around the world – though not in person. Starting at 5:30 on Thursday morning in a school hall in Hong Kong and finishing at 3:30 on Friday morning in Vancouver.

Teaming with the South African initiated Shabbat Project, the Covid-19-tailored event was enthusiastically received around the world.

The purpose of the virtual tour was to connect Jewish Women worldwide in the Mitzvah of making Challah, bringing much needed blessing to the world. From Dubai to Gibraltar, Singapore to Moscow, women around the globe were enthusiastic to take part in this initiative of unity, with over 6000 women joining in.

One participant in the Global Challah bake said, “What an incredible experience!

I sat in my lounge in Edgware London watching the challah bake right in front of the Kotel in Jerusalem and then went on to make challah of my own in the UK bake, led by powerhouse Rebbetzin Joanne Dove. I learnt so much, and I felt so connected. For the first time since I can remember I felt linked to Jewish women all over the world.

What a brilliant idea!! I even landed up

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keeping Shabbat thanks to SEED.” Rabbi Malcolm Herman, Associate National Director at Seed added: It’s such a privilege for us at SEED to partner with the Shabbat project inspired by South African Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein. Encouraging so many families to experience Shabbat for themselves for the first time here in the UK, and of course to participate in the magnificent international challah bake led by my colleague Joanne Dove.”

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19 NOVEMBER 2020

Record number attend Work Avenue second career event More than 150 people attended Work Avenue’s Defining Your Second Career event – where keynote speaker David Kaplan described how his own career change was brought about by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks.

The attendance at the second such event hosted by Work Avenue – the Jewish community’s leading employment and business support organisation – more than doubled that of last year, showing just how many people are looking to new vocations as a result of the current pandemic.

Edinburgh born David told how he was all set to become a lawyer when the former Chief Rabbi persuaded him to pursue a career in the Jewish community instead. That led to roles with UJIA, Laniado UK and the United Synagogue, where he co-created the youth programme Tribe and rose to the position of director.

He told delegates: “I would probably not be the Jew I am today if it were not for Rabbi Sacks. I owe him so much.

“My late mother and father were looking forward to me donning the white wig as an advocate in Edinburgh, but due to his influence I changed and became a Jewish community professional instead.”

A recent second career swap saw David leave the Jewish world to form his own consultancy firm and become the COO of the SBC Group, which provides business coaching to senior executives.

Keynote speaker David Kaplan

“One of my first calls when I decided to move was to Melanie Pearl of Work Avenue, who I trusted to look me in the eyes and tell me if I was doing the right thing.

“Melanie took me through all the pros and cons, defined what I was trying to do, nailed my CV and sent me in the direction of positivity that I am still on today.”

At the conference, attendees were able to pick from six different sessions

covering everything from CV building and using LinkedIn, to whether age can count against you in the job search. Many had either lost jobs due to Covid-19 or had become motivated during lockdown to try something new.

Event delegate, Jilly Black who has recently changed her career with the help of Work Avenue said: “Trying to change careers, particularly in the midst of a

pandemic, seems impossible, but with the right mindset and the right support, it can happen.

Events like this make all the difference, as, not only do they put you in touch with others in the same position, showing that you aren’t alone, they offer a wealth of brilliant tips and advice that you can watch again afterwards. They’re invaluable.”

Other presenters at the half-day event included Whitbread PLC management consultant Adam Katz, Amanda Reuben of Bijou Recruitment and Work Avenue experts Emma May, Richard Linden, Melanie Pearl and Joanna Sadie.

Work Avenue CEO Debbie Sheldon said: “Coronavirus has had an impact on all of our lives, and this is especially true in the employment world. Industries have collapsed overnight and employers have had to make redundancies.

“Many in our community have found themselves looking for a new role in an unfamiliar world, often at a stage in their life where they thought things were secure.

“We have seen clients facing issues of low confidence and self-esteem, mental health issues and devastating financial insecurity, with knock on effects for all family members.

“That’s why we put on this event – to help people address some of these issues and narrow the odds of a successful career change in their favour.”

Jewish Studies head pupils at Manchester’s King David Primary School, Tali Wiseglass, Leora Levene, Shayna Baker and Lexi Benjamin pictured with an ipad who have made a special tribute video for Rabbi Lord Sacks and have asked every pupil in the School to perform an act of Kindness in his honour.

Key Stage 2 pupils, at Manchester’s King David Primary School are taking part in the Chief Rabbi’s Kindness Challenge.

From left, Tali Wiseglass, Leora Levene, Shayna Baker and Lexi Benjamin

From left, Tayte Gabbie, Isabella Heywood, Leo Friedman,and Oliver Benjamin

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL

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Celia’s Kitchen opens in Manchester

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Celia’s Kitchen Mezzuzah fixing by Dayan Y.O. Steiner with Rabbi Royde of the Manchester Beth Din, and Marc, Celia and Barry Clyne

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The beautiful displays ranging from

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speciality dishes, to a wide range of meat offerings, and everything in between allows the customer to be spoilt for choice.

Takeaway options include mouth-watering deserts to complement the menu. As the shop logo says, it really is ‘Food prepared with passion to nourish the soul!’

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19 NOVEMBER 2020

Maccabi GB CEO Berliner steps down

Martin Berliner

Maccabi GB’’s long serving Chief Executive, Martin Berliner, stands down from his role at the end of December.

Ashley Lerner, currently chief operating officer, takes up the role in January 2021.

Berliner will become a Trustee and remain consultant CEO of Maccabi Europe.

“This role has been life changing for me and my family who have all benefited from the broad range of projects, programmes and events Maccabi GB deliver annually,” he said.

David Pinnick, Maccabi GB Chairman

noted, “Martin has been an outstanding CEO, he has transformed our primarily sports based organisation into the flourishing community charity. His leadership combined with intuition and vision on behalf of the charity has been truly outstanding.

“As he changes his role, Martin’s distinguished legacy is the body of work of which we can proudly boast and hopefully build upon.”

Lerner has worked his way up through the ranks. Head of Operations in 2014, he has held his present post since 2019.

Sacks Morasha mark remembrance It is a mitzvah to remember and to commemorate Remembrance Day. The children of Sacks Morasha had the opportunity to buy poppies, poppy keyrings and poppy stationery to raise money for the British Legion’s annual poppy appeal.

Starting the day off with a virtual ceremony, the whole school fell silent for 2 minutes to remember at 11am.

In addition, the school shared the AJEX Remembrance Prayer to say with their families on Shabbat, took part in the AJEX ‘wear red’ day - donating tzedakah to help support the charity and raise awareness and educated pupils further via holding a Remembrance themed assembly compiled by The British Jews in the First World War (We Were There Too).

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Jewish schools from across the UK have participated in a JNF UK competition to design face masks for children in Israel. Nearly 1000 pupils from 14 different schools participated in the contest, submitting designs they have drawn and painted themselves.

Many of the schools are JNF UK partner schools, receiving funding from the charity to promote their connection to Israel.

With masks being sent from London, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow, winners will be chosen from three different age groups. These will be selected by a panel of judges, including Zoom Rockman, a cartoonist who was employed by the Beano while still at school and Nic Abery, Director and founder of LooktoLearn and creator of Israel70:Building Artistic Connections.

The designs of the three selected winners will be manufactured and distributed to schools in Israel’s peripheral regions. The hope is that these colourful gifts will bring some joy in areas that have been badly affected by the pandemic.

Charles Lossos, CEO of JNF UK, commented: “It’s been amazing to see the enthusiasm of so many children, parents and schools for this idea. The vision of JNF UK’S education grants was to help bring the pupils in our schools closer to Israel, and this competition has shown how this is possible even

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during these challenging times.”

Yolande Pieters, Jewish Studies Leader at Etz Chaim Jewish Primary School, commented: “Thanks to our partnership with JNF UK, we have really been able to connect our children in real and relevant ways to the people of Israel. Designing face masks for Israelis made us realise that we have another connection and that we were able to offer our best wishes and support in this way.”

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19 NOVEMBER 2020

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From the front line…

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Scientists and MPs are jointly calling for changes to the isolation rules, precipitated by the recent track and trace confinement of Boris Johnson - despite his likely post covid immunity. In a recent fiasco he and another 11 MPs are presently isolating after coming into contact with fellow MP Lee Anderson. MPs have declared this isolation policy `not fit for purpose,` saying it would be far more sensible to offer rapid testing to those at risk, rather than T&T. Now while I'm inclined to say that such an executive offer is always going to be offered to the big guys, I'm Jacqueline Curzon not sure those of us further down the food chain will be given such PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY leniency, as it's not perceived as being in the public interest to have US tested expeditiously. Instead we can likely self isolate, repeatedly or forever and a day.

The opposing MPs have said the situation demonstrated the need to stop T&T and introduce rapid testing, with Professor Tim Peto, professor of medicine at Oxford saying, "there's a simple way to take a belt and braces approach.

We should be operating a system argue the patient (often elderly) had which allows the PM to take a seasonal flu, not covid. This looks like this rapid test, to be back at work the next tactic plays into the hands of proponents day." Looking on the silver lining side, for campaign ^Vaccinate UK,^ where one Boris may now have additional home size vaccine will fit all of us, just in case. time to spend with his son Wilf, although We are creeping towards the end of the trouble in No 10 is potentially still only a current lockdown, which Boris promised few metres away, with his fiancee Carrie was only going to be for 4 weeks till DeSymonds inter-meddling as his unofficial cember 2nd. Matt Hancock has now said advisor. It must be so tempting for her to it's too early to know if current restrictions want to bend his ear, but this is not how have been effective, but it raises the our elected representatives are to govunpleasant spectre of the holiday season ern. He has a cabinet of ostensibly well educated ministers surrounding him, and effectively being cancelled, with hospitals potentially gearing up for a rise in covid clearly they don't like him being guided admissions. Hancock indicates there by their former press officer (2009) who could be an open door for an extension of worked her way up to Head of Comms lockdown, or instead a resumption to inin 2018. She subsequently stood down creased tier classifications, which must in from this role, and is now advising the turn be approved by Parliament. Dr Susan environmental rights charity, Oceana.

Hopkins, chief medical advisor to NHS Nonetheless, it is easy to see how she is said 'even if lockdown ends in England, building a sub-court of allies within the a further tier system will likely be needed PMs extended circle, and similarly we to replace it.' Similarly an announcement can, and are, watching these complicated from Nicola Sturgeon confirmed she has dynamics playing out. Some would argue put 11 councils into Tier 4, (including she should stick to her maternal and Glasgow) which means a return to near spousal roles, and stay out of influencing full lockdown and a travel ban for 2 milpolitical decisions. I am female, and not lion Scots. Santa Sturgeon has said this is chauvinist, and would agree.

Other news around coronavirus focuses for the common good, although businesses not classed as essential will grudgingly on the rising deaths… Woah! Let's back have to close. A £30 million fund has just up a minute, folks. The recent daily rise been made available to local authorities in deaths is +168, give or take a degree to help businesses. This is intended to of variance. This could actually (partly) reflect the seasonal rise in deaths from flu, pave the way for easing up of rules (there) in December. something many GPs have argued. SeverElsewhere our seasonal plans are still al have reported to me, that they are being 'on ice' as Mr Hancock has refused to harangued into putting ‘covid-related’ on rule out making vaccinations mandatory, the death certificate when the deceased’s saying that they could consider this if the illnesss had a respiratory basis; but they

We were promised this lockdown would be short lived. However Hancock looks likely to extend it, by hook or crook.

initial uptake is lower than expected. The UK has ordered 350 million doses (combined) from pharma companies: GSK/Sanofi, Janssen, Valneva, Novavax, Pfizer and AstraZeneca. Whilst the scientists are promoting the efficacy and nominal side effects of these vaccines, we still don't know what the scale of side effects could be. For people like myself with significant underlying health conditions to take something else, (tested only on a minority of volunteers) which may cause additional risks to our health, rather than just aiming to avoid covid-19, is not something I'm willing to take up at this point. I've just reluctantly and scarily gone back on chemo, with the nasty range of side effects loitering patiently in the wings, waiting to envelope me in their toxic cloak. Typically my treatment on this occasion started several hours late, because the nurses a) couldn't easily access the port, and then b) because my consent form (signed by me in the clinic on Friday) was nowhere to be seen. The remedy included an off-site phone call, someone else signing a new form as the representative physician, scanning and sending it through to the offsite chemo facility, and then me signing it (again). Only then could we begin.

Every time I go for an NHS appointment there's a time delay worthy of the Doctor's tardis - you couldn't make it up. Although to be fair, some weeks back I was sent for a private scan and the facility wouldn't let me in, despite my having a letter with me, and the consultant inside, waiting for me. I saw him a few weeks later and he was both mystified and mortified by this lapse of manners. And that wasn't even the NHS. School exams are under the microscope again with at least 2 devolved parts of the UK (Wales and Scotland) announcing they're not going to run formal exams at the end of the year, instead of which they will use teacher assessments.

In the same way that it's perceived now as completely convenient to have one's medical appointments over a telephone save anyone the bother of you going into a surgery or a clinic, we could just as easily run zoom exams or no exams, and save the schools and the unions the hassle of opening up a building, supervising meticulously and maintaining social distancing and sanitary measures, so that kids can be marked on the gold standards they've always had.

Chief executive of AQA has also noted that special consideration could apply to students in the areas hardest hit by covid, that would be for people whose schooling has been 'severely disrupted' and for them to be graded more generously. It's very difficult if they're going to try and level the playing field without any properly

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moderated final exams, and this kind of political tinkering could see two schools in the same district, let's say one is a private school whose students are given no such grading consideration, whilst the state school next door with its high percentage of free school meals and attendant social needs, could see their students outperform the others, in the same exams, by virtue of applying 'special considerations.'

My son who is working for GCSEs might tell me 'one teacher always marks him down' and another gives what he perceives as 'credible, fair marking,' but remember he's only one of millions of people, in thousands of schools. This essentially means that - aside from science or maths subjects - these teachers are often marking papers subjectively. How can that be fair?

This is a precarious thin end of the wedge here, because aside from covid lockdown and perennial zooming, which we could see run for a virtual infinity, we risk setting a precedent that will never be altered. Every year such students will be able to claim previous years got 'preferential' treatment.

Related news shows that Universities running 'Mickey Mouse' degree courses face being fined up to £500,000 under plans by the watchdog OfS, to stamp out this bad practice. They want to crackdown on degrees with high student dropout, low graduate employment as well as those universities showing significant grade inflation. This is welcome news for a generation of youngsters now having to pay extortionate fees, accruing a lifetime of debt to no real avail and with no career likely at its end. I think a serious review of degree courses nationally is long overdue.

Over the pond, Trump is refusing to concede defeat in the election, which although perceived as well overdue, might now be understandable as several US states have the legal authority to take many extra weeks or months, to tally up their postal votes. Whilst it seems anathema, it is a legally binding arrangement, and he may just have a point here. All we ask is for him to behave presidentially, like our revered members of the Royal Family {with Princess Anne, Princes Charles & William and HM the Queen instantly springing to mind} Lastly, a huge shout-out for Lewis Hamilton, who has just won his seventh world title, equalling the record of Michael Schumacher. Calls are being made for him to be knighted, although the date for official New Year 2021 nominations has currently passed. Let's wait and see if Boris can deliver, although maybe it's a task for Carrie-on-Sir-Lewis.

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

AND YOU’LL MISS IT The first release of DS Tayman single malt scotch whisky was so popular that the warehouse stock of Caol Ila 10 disappeared within a week. The Linkwood 12 swiftly followed suit.

As an independent bottler, DS Tayman will only be releasing a handful of limited-edition expressions each year. Each edition is only bottled after a careful process of ageing in a specially selected barrel where it develops its individual aroma, colour and taste. And, as is so often the way with the most desirable things in life, they are in short supply and demand is high.

For its second release, DS Tayman has selected barrels from the Flam winery in the Judean Hills to finish both the Speyside Linkwood and Islay Caol Ila single malts. www.dstayman.com

28 COOKERY

19 NOVEMBER 2020

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Olive Oil and Almond Biscotti Use the very best olive oil to make these crunchy almond biscuits.

Delicious with your favourite liquor, (the Italian way) or enjoy with a cup of coffee/ tea at your family Chanukah celebrations.

Makes a lot of biscuits in not a lot of time!

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

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time 45 minutes Serves: Approx 50 biscuits Ingredients 200g whole almonds – skins on ~ 2 large eggs Zest of 1 lemon 180g caster sugar 100ml olive oil 1 teaspoon vanilla essence ~ 250g plain flour Pinch salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 50g dried cranberries Method 1) Preheat the oven to 200 C/ 400 F/ gas mark 6.

2) Roast the almonds for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and then leave to cool.

3) Place in the food processor and pulse until roughly chopped.

4) Using an electric mixer, whisk the eggs, lemon zest, olive oil and vanilla essence.

Going Nuts?

BY DENISE PHILLIPS Almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, and walnuts are all in season and the supermarkets have them in abundance – sold loose by weight or attractively gift wrapped. In the past nuts fell into the ‘bad for you’ category. However recent studies show that nuts are indeed healthy especially if you are following a vegan diet. They provide key proteins, good fats, antioxidants, aid in the reduction of cholesterol and help you live longer. Moderation is the key factor and

enjoy naturally rather than covered in salt, sugar, chocolate, or other processed flavouring.

To give you an idea of quantity about 8-10 of the above-named nuts is plenty. Almonds are best eaten on an empty stomach to increase and speed up the absorption of the nutrients.

To improve their flavour, I like to toast nuts in the oven with no oil and cook on 200C /400F for about 10 minutes or until golden. Do put a timer on as if they burn, they become bitter and unusable. Leave to cool

5) Stir in the flour, salt, baking powder and cranberries. Add the roasted almonds and mix well.

6) Transfer the dough onto a tray lined with baking parchment paper and make 3 sausage shapes about 4 cm in width. Add a little flour if the dough is too wet.

7) Bake for 15 minutes and remove.

8) Reduce the oven to 150 C/ 350 F/ Gas mark 4.

9) Transfer the logs to a chopping board and using a serrated knife, slice into 2 cm thick biscotti.

10) Return to the oven for about 20 minutes until slightly crisp.

11) Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

and transfer to a plastic bag and store in a dry place for a maximum of 2 months. They then become the go to quick store cupboard ingredient!

I am a great fan of nuts in all my recipes. Below are some ideas for their diverse use; • Make your own trail mix – its an excellent healthy snack on the go.

Just mix in your favourite combination, add some dried fruit and bag up and you are ready to take with you.

• Coat your proteins – crush pecans or walnuts in a liquid base such as lemon juice or olive oil, add spices and then coat fish, chicken, aubergine slices, cauliflower steaks to make more exciting and add texture.

• Top your salads – chopped and toasted nuts add flavour and crunch to any salad.

• Stir up your stir fry – make an Asian fry using tofu, chicken, peppers, onions, chili for example and top with toasted almond.

• Add some contrast to your morning cereal – slivered or raw almonds

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on your porridge or favourite cereal is a great pairing.

• Nutty desserts – walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans and almonds are all delicious addition to cakes, muffins, ice creams and tray bakes. Enjoy them whole, soaked, ground either inside the dessert

Sun 22 Nov: Age: 35-45 Sat 5 Dec: Age: 30-40

or as a topping.

• Add to vegetables – toss into plain cooked vegetables together with garlic and dried spices to add texture, flavour and appearance.

So going nuts is a great way to keep you sane and healthy!

Sun 29 Nov Age: 50-60 Sun 13 Dec Age: 40-50

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30 FEATURE

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19 NOVEMBER 2020

Kosher Restaurant Life in 2020 A View from the inside

BY PHILIP PELL CO-OWNER OF KAIFENG RESTAURANT From every angle, 2020 has been a year like no other. Who could have predicted the sweeping and fundamental changes we have all had to make? Being worried about meeting people, not hugging your relatives and friends and not feeling comfortable enough to go where you want.

It seems to me that the move to working from home has been brought forward by about ten years. Shopping has been slowly migrating online for a few years and is now a central part of most people’s lives.

And kosher restaurants? At Kaifeng, we were the first to send out colour Take Away menus in the early 1990’s. Knowing that the trend was for more couples both working, tired and home late, we delivered.

We knew that people wanted to be sure that food was kosher to their front door.

We got good at it over many years. But this year has surprised even us.

When the first shut down came this year, we were one of the very few to remain open to deliver to our customers. Our staff bravely came to work and followed a most

rigorous and strict safety regime. We are known as the place for a simcha and our customers, brilliant as ever, came up with new ways to celebrate events. It is common for someone to have food delivered to multiple destinations and then have a

simcha together with friends and family via Zoom or Facetime.

We look forward to the end of this current lockdown and being able to advise our customers on the best way that regulations will allow them to celebrate together.

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Like many kosher restaurants, our customers have become our friends, so when we were allowed to re-open the restaurant in July, it was like a reunion! However, many of our customers were hesitant to go out to a public place. Slowly, word got out of our safety systems. Parties to arrive one at a time, their temperatures taken and hands sanitised. Not only is everyone kept secure – they feel secure and can relax and enjoy an evening at Kaifeng. Someone remarked to me as they were leaving ‘this is the first time we have come out for a meal and we felt perfectly safe. Look, they are wiping down our chairs!’ We are also delighted that both Rabbi Padwa and Rabbi Gruber have paid glowing compliments to us regarding safety (and our food!). We have yet to hear of any Kaifeng related Covid connections.

But we are still in our second lockdown and the outlook is uncertain. We continue trying to improve our operation and Take Aways are flying out. However most restaurants will not make money this year but we are here for the community and our staff. Please support which ever is your favourite kosher restaurant.

ADVERTORIAL

THE ISRAEL PROPERTY BUYERS GUIDE Welcome to the CurrencyTransfer.com guide to buying a property in Israel. We passionately think that buying a home in Israel is exciting, fulfilling, and perhaps Zionistic adventure. We’re here to help.

By Nathan Perez, Head of Israel Desk at CurrencyTransfer.com For more information on buying a property in Israel check out our free in-depth guide www.currencytransfer.com/israel-buyers-guide

The Legal Angle

The Mortgage

There are many nuggets in this category, as legal representation for property purchase is absolutely key in Israel. There is no “standard” transaction and having someone experienced in your corner batting for your interests is extremely valuable. The local market is culturally, and structurally unique, and we find that time and again foreign clients need to adjust their mindset and expectations to optimize their acquisition in Israel. Having the right legal advice is the best catalyst for a successful acquisition.

The most common mistake foreign clients usually make is to compare the real estate and mortgage industry between their home country and Israel. There are similarities but also huge differences. For example, a mortgage refusal in Israel is usually not considered as a reason to cancel a real estate deal.

The Basics: Counting Rooms Understanding Exchange Rates The three major types of transactions: Unfortunately there have been cases where clients have flown in to see a pre-prepared list of properties, only to discover that in Israel the living room is also counted as a room, and hence what they thought were a list of 4 bedroom properties, was actually a list of 3 bedroom (plus living room) properties. Also, “finished to a very high level” often means something different in Israel than in New York, London or Amsterdam.

The standards and norms of where the customer is coming from will play a huge part in preparing a list of suitable properties.

MAY 2020

JUN 2020

JUL 2020

LOW – 4.1809

£500,000 2,090,450

HIGH – 4.4134

£500,000 2,206,700

Think about this for a moment. A mere 4% shift in the currency exchange rates on a £500,000 property can at best, make the difference in the choice of furniture, and at worst, mean your dream home is no longer within budget. From key macro-driven interest rate decisions to political earthquakes like Donald Trump and Brexit, keeping abreast of market movements is essential. We help you navigate and budget every step of the way and ensure that the market fluctuations don’t get in the way of a once in a lifetime adventure.

Locking in a rate today can give you peace of mind when purchasing your dream home in Israel. Take the example of the Morris family who is buying a house in Netanya and are required to make their final balance transfer in a month and a half. The current GBPILS exchange rate is attractive, within budget and the family decides they are eager to guarantee the Sterling cost of their property abroad. Non-Bank Foreign Exchange specialists will allow you to fix the GBP to ILS exchange rate now, giving you the comfort of knowing the exact cost of your property, regardless of what happens with fluctuations in the exchange rate. Forward contracts are the perfect method of budgeting and staying in control.

1. An existing property The agreement will be with the current owner. The terms of payment are to be negotiated. A common transaction would be one where there are 3 – 4 equal payments from signature to completion.

2. New property under construction The agreement will be with the developer.

Payments terms will be spread over the construction phase. The down payment could be up to 25% with 10% left for hand over and the balance of 65% payable in equal quarterly payments throughout the process of construction.

3. Rights to erect a new property in a “Purchasers’ Group” Namely a number of parties who cooperate together to buy and develop a property, and then contracting themselves, as a group, with third parties to construct the development. The group will usually pay for the purchase of the land upfront, construction costs will be paid over the building phase in accordance with terms agreed by the group members in a cooperation agreement between them.

A range of currency options First and foremost recognize that the mortgage options are larger and more complex in Israel than in the rest of the world. Foreign buyers are able to take advantage of a range of mortgages in different currencies, including Israeli Shekel, Euro, US Dollar, and British Pound.

Mortgage provider options Prices between different lending banks very much depend on the clientele they target. It will usually vary according to the client profile and lender’s risk appetite. Be aware interest rates are currently higher in Israel than in Europe or North America for different reasons such as the cost of funds to the banks, the level of competition in the mortgage market and finally the disequilibrium between supply and demand of real estate and mortgages.

Factor In Total Costs Be aware of the additional expenses for a real estate purchase, including amongst others: Legal fees, Bank Arrangement Fees, Surveyor, Title registration, Purchase Taxes, Estate Agent, etc. Depending on your status, a good rule of thumb is to expect additional unanticipated costs of 10-15% of the purchase price. To conclude, never stretch yourself to the limit based on the purchase price alone, given all the additional payments that need to be made.

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT PROPERTY IN ISRAEL? Don’t let banking fees and unfair exchange rate margins see you missing out on your dream home.

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32 TRAVEL

19 NOVEMBER 2020

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Scotland in Autumn

BY CARON BLUESTONE What can I say? I’m in love! I’d only ever visited Edinburgh on business and it’s certainly a beautiful city, but if you are searching for stunning scenery, where clouds reflect clearly in the lochs, as shiny as mirrors and in Autumn, the hues are full spectrums of greens, yellows and browns, almost unimaginable in one vista, then head to the Highlands.

We decided to be adventurous and take the brand New Caledonian Sleeper train from Euston to Glasgow. No slumming it though, with a porter on-hand, our two double en-suite Club Rooms, side by side in a gleaming new carriage, proper duvet and pillows and even a chic overnight bag filled with miniature toiletries awaited us.

I hadn’t been this excited to go on a train since the Hirham Bingham in Peru.

The overnight service runs from Euston every night, except Saturday. Leaving late, tucked up in bed and rocked to sleep by the gentle movement of the train and awaking early, if you’re lucky, to fields filled with rolling mists and a spectacular sunrise. The train runs all the way up the Highlands to Inverness but we chose to alight in Glasgow and hire a car - a perfect way to take in scenery at our own pace.

With two children in tow, a hire car gives you that added freedom.

We headed north in towards Inverness.

A good three-hour’s drive north, on the A9 takes you through Pitlochry and the spectacular Cairngorms National Park to Aviemore, then through Inverness to Dornoch, where the most exquisite, quintessentially Scottish, country estate awaits.

The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle is one of the most exclusive and prestigious clubs in the world. You’d be forgiven for taking your time to find the entrance.

Although Skibo represents the ultimate in luxury, it remains totally understated.

Encompassing 8000 acres of forests, moors and the magnificent Dornoch Firth, upon which you can sail or try your hand at fishing, It may be quicker and easier to arrive by helicopter, as many of the members, a good proportion of whom are from overseas, do.

Once inside the gates, this becomes your home from home. It’s definitely not a hotel. You have to be a member or their guest, or a prospective member to be lucky enough to stay. Although it’s certainly not cheap, spend a few days at what feels like one big, country house party and I defy you not to consider membership.

Every luxury is included, staff who anticipate your every wish and facilities beyond your wildest dreams.

Skibo, loosely translated from Gaellic Norse, means ‘enchanted place’, a name that couldn’t be more befitting. No surprise that Andrew Carnegie fell in love with the place. Born in the grounds, he

at the weekend.

Alan Grant, Skibo’s charmingly dishevelled and slightly bohemian ambassador and long-time host, effortlessly brings together members, new and old, presiding over the atmospheric evenings that often end in dancing, or in our case a singalong around the exquisite grand piano.

The next day, whilst the children swam

Carnegie Links and Skibo Clubhouse

Gardens and Grounds

PHOTO: THE CARNEGIE CLUB - CHRIS CLOSE

Airds red sunset

PHOTO: THE CARNEGIE CLUB - CHARLES LEEK

left for America only to return in 1898 with a fortune made from steel, to buy the castle. Spending millions on renovations, guests now have him to thank for the 21 opulent bedrooms and the splendid stately rooms, where much of the original decoration still remains. Here, bagpipes announce the beginning of the day at 8am and the spectacular organ plays.

Families are hosted in any one of the 12 impressive lodges in the grounds. Characterful, cosy and wanting for nothing, hot water-bottles appear at turndown as if by magic, roll top baths, a full kitchen with washing facilities for those who need them. Park your car, then a buggy is yours for your stay. For travelling further afield around the estate, a call to your host will have one of the fleet of sleek, black Range Rovers at your door within moments.

The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle is worth joining for its situation alone, which epitomises everything that the Highlands has to offer in one place, the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Most activities are included here, from horse-riding to clay pigeon shooting, archery and then of course the golf. Skibo is home to a world championship golf course; the jewel in its crown. Sitting beside the Dornoch Firth, the scenery is unrivalled. Here, the atmosphere is relaxed. No tee-off times. The Clubhouse

Getting ready for a wonderful trip

forms a hub for the members, whiling away the day relaxing and socialising and for those wishing to improve, a lesson or two with the resident professionals.

Children of all ages are welcomed. The huge play barn, which is about to given a stately makeover, pulls out all the stops.

We were there over Halloween and boy did they impress with their selection of activities and enthusiasm.

The feeling here is of being a guest of a very generous friend, much more personal than in any hotel. Skibo is a sociable place. Members and their guests are encouraged to get together and mingle, notably during the hosted evenings held in the castle. Piped in to the panelled dining room where spouses are separated, seems surreal yet is surprisingly convivial.

Bring your glad rags because there’s a dress code. Jacket and tie a must, black tie

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in the magical pool -check out the stupendous sunset views -mummy ‘tested’ the spa! After all, a hard days walking, riding and shooting leaves you with no better option.

The pampering neither starts nor ends in the exceptional spa. Worlds away from the city, Skibo sets its own standards at everything. Don’t buy that villa in Spain, look at membership instead. You will never regret it.

For some of the most exceptionally beautiful landscapes, the western Highlands can’t be beaten. The second party of our Highland tour as a family took us to Port Appin, Argyll and Airds Hotel & Restaurant.

If the drive down the A82 through the Glencoe Valley doesn’t take your breath away, then arriving at your destination will.

19 NOVEMBER 2020

Swimming Pool

We arrived at dusk, excited to see what all the fuss was about. As well as being a Pride of Britain hotel and holding 3 AA rosettes, Airds is also a member of the highly esteemed Relais & Chateaux association. It is one that has a sixty-year history of sheer excellence. Never have I been disappointed by a member property, so high are the entry requirements and as fussy as I am! As this 18th-century former coaching inn came into view, I knew that our choice had been a good one.

Airds is an extraordinary, luxury, boutique hotel, sitting directly on the shores of the stunning Loch Linnhe, looking out to the Morvern mountains. The gardens extend to the water’s edge, Port Appin lighthouse and the tiny but beautiful island of Lismore in the distance.

There’s real warmth that greets you here. Both visually and in the welcome you receive. The softly spoken GM, Robert and his team were there to greet us, nothing too much trouble. In through the attractive conservatory, past the collection of wellies and waterproofs, there at the guest’s disposal and through to the small reception and cosy snug bar. Our bags whisked away giving us a chance to look around.

The style here is traditional but with lots of contemporary touches, from brightly coloured cushions to modern art pieces.

The two lounges, thoughtfully decorated in a way that lends itself perfectly to relaxation and conviviality. Large comfortable sofas, books and magazines aplenty and a cracking log fire.

The eleven rooms and suites are also beautiful. Decorated with designer fabrics and a very luxurious feel. Our suite, complete with a separate tv room and sofa that turned into a comfy bed for the children to sleep in, offered spectacular views of Loche Linnhe. It’s the attention to detail that matters the most and here, everything has been considered. From the exceptionally comfortable Vi Spring bed to the fluffy bathrobes and Bulgari toiletries in the huge marble bathroom.

Flat screen TVs in both rooms, iPod dock, DVD player and of course free WiFi. The danger of course being that you might

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PHOTO: THE CARNEGIE CLUB - ADAM LYNK

Castle Interior - Great Hall

PHOTO: THE CARNEGIE CLUB - CHRIS TUBBS

only return as members. Members may visit the club as often as they wish and for as long as they wish. 12-month trial membership- £12,000, full membership - £30,000 joining fee plus annual dues of £9,500 per year. Non-members looking to join must apply to the club’s committee for a once-only stay. https://www.carnegieclub.co.uk/ For kosher food, please liaise directly with the properties.

GETTING THERE

We travelled on the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston. Visit https://www. sleeper.scot/tickets/ Our transfers to and from the station were with Blacklane. A global chauffeur service that can be booked via an app, with changes easy to make up until an hour before pickup. At airports, they also offer one hour complimentary waiting. https://www.blacklane.com/en/ Airds rhododendrons and lighthouse view

never want to leave, but leave you must because there is as much beauty outside your door as there is on the inside.

Some of the most exquisite scenery in Scotland is in Argyll. We drove the thirty minutes to Oban, nestled on shores of the west coast, strolled along the beach, watching the fishing boats. From here you can take a sea safari, tour the castle or just amble through the town visiting the boutiques and galleries. There’s also the ferry to the island of Mull - arguably one of the most picturesque - teeming with wildlife and steeped in history; something to delight every visitor, young or old.

Closer to the hotel is the tiny, tranquil and unspoilt isle of Lismore. A short walk to Port Appin pier takes you to the ferry. Awaiting you on Lismore is a Viking castle, ruins, bikes for hire and a small community of just 170 people.

Our two nights flew by far too quickly.

Still so much left undiscovered. You could spend a week here easily, getting lost in luxury, nature and a slower pace of life.

Alas, London was calling.

Airds also offers two, luxury self-contained cottages for those looking for the

facilities of a hotel but with a little more independence.

Airds Hotel & Restaurant (www. airds-hotel.com) in Port Appin near Oban on the West Coast of Scotland, has been named Luxury Scottish Hotel of the Year 2020. The 3-night winter escape is priced from £125 per person per night (2 sharing ½-board for 3 nights) and includes a heart-warming whisky mac and early morning tea/coffee delivered to the room with a newspaper of choice each day.

Valid to March 26 2020, subject to availability (excludes Christmas, New Year and Valentines weeks).

Reservations: www.airds-hotel.com / 01631 730 236 / airds@airds-hotel.com The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle is an international, private, residential club and membership is by invitation only. All applications are placed before the Membership Committee for approval.

As a residential club, members must stay at Skibo to use the club’s facilities.

Prospective members may visit the club once, allowing them to experience the club at first hand before applying for membership. However, they can

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

SHOPPING LIST

The one-stop shop for the outdoors is Lands End. Walking boots, parkas for sub-zero temperatures and all the paraphernalia in between from gloves to hats.

The quality of their offering is legendary and although online, customer service is fantastic with everything purchased under guarantee. https://www.landsend. co.uk/ When looking for affordable attire, both causal and formal, try Next. Fast delivery, a vast array of choice and price points for every age and occasion. https://www. next.co.uk/ For really cool, stylish kidswear that is both luxurious and functional with designs both urban and traditional and thus fit for any castle, look to the environmentally aware, hip, brand Mar Mar. Their designs are gorgeous and focus on comfort and wearability, you can’t go wrong. https://www.marmar.dk/en

By Caron Bluestone, Contributing Editor Visit my Website Twitter Instagram Pregnantcitygirl.com @pregcitygirl instagram.com/pregnantcitygirl

34 JUDAISM

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ASK THE RABBI

19 NOVEMBER 2020

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com WHAT MAKES ABRAHAM SO SPECIAL?

Dear Rabbi This might sound like a heretical question but what why do we make such a big deal about the story of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac when there were so many Jews and nonJews throughout history that have sacrificed their lives. I am not questioning the story just wondering why we make such a big deal about this story when there are countless examples of martyrdom.

Derek Dear Derek We need to carefully consider what constitutes martyrdom?

The primal confession of the Jewish faith is expressed in the Biblical passage of the Shema.

The passage is recited every day and every night. It is the of the very first things to be taught to every child when beginning its education and it is the last thing a Jew recites before restoring his soul to his Maker. Within that Shema we say, “And you shall love G-d with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your might.” “With all your soul,” means, even if it at the cost of your own life. Absolute love of, and unqualified devotion to, G-d is the supreme religious value.

It supersedes everything, even physical life itself. The supreme sacrifice of surrendering one’s life for G-d and His will as expressed in His revelation is the ultimate test of one’s fealty to G-d.

The Torah itself, however, qualifies this obligation: There is the principle of “you have to live by the mitzvot and not die

by them.” Hence if a mitzvah threatens a person’s life, you can violate the mitzvah in order to preserve that life. You can eat ham on the afternoon of Yom Kippur if that is what is required to save one’s life.

What is clear, however, is that in Jewish law, martyrdom is a most lofty ideal, but even more so, it is not arbitrary, left to the discretion of the would-be martyr.

When martyrdom is sanctioned it is only on condition that it is you who is sacrificing your life, and not at the expense of others.

How different then is this to the alleged martyrdom of suicide murderers. Their actions are altogether different. First, their objective is to cast fear and terror into the minds and hearts of their perceived opponents. They are not seeking martyrdom for themselves but sacrifice their lives as this is the only way to achieve their end.

Second, there is the ulterior motif deeply ingrained into their psyche of anticipated reward in the after-life in terms of crude mundane concepts such as sensual pleasures and joy, the lure of glory and fame for their names and their memory in this world, let alone the material benefits promised to their living relatives.

In this instance you’re doing it with ulterior motif.

Sometimes that cause could be more seemingly altruistic.

Sometimes there were those who gave their lives in order to make very public statements like the self-immolating Monks in the Far East; or those who would grandstand in order to promote their cause – to make the world

aware. Think of Mohamed Bouazizi who lit himself on fire in Tunisia which kicked off the Arab Spring. Was that self-sacrifice? It was. Was it pure and altruistic? Not really, because he had an ulterior motif, however fine and subtle that might have been. He had an objective and boy did he achieve it.

When Abraham stepped onto the mountain to sacrifice his son, he wasn’t making any statement.

There was no one there – no one would have necessarily ever known about it - just one man and his son on a mountaintop.

Furthermore, if people would hear about it, the risk is such that it would completely discredit Abraham and literally demolish everything he built up to date.

Sacrificing his son is the antithesis of everything he ever taught everyone else. Thus this was unquestionably, pure, altruistic devotion to G-d through unconditional self-sacrifice.

The hard fact is that throughout history scores of Jewish people, many seemingly totally detached from their roots, who when faced with the cross and the sword and told “kiss this or this kisses you,” they gave their lives. Because on a spiritual level their very souls feel a deep intrinsic bond with G-d. Regardless of how detached or distant we might even think ourselves to be, we have a soul within which is an extension of the Divine, which, cannot, nor does it want to ever sever that bond. At that precise moment – one feels their whole essence being threatened and for no rational reason they are not about to give up that bond without which there is no point to their continued

existence. In other words it is pure, altruistic, no agenda, no ulterior motif.

From where do we draw this strength? From the one man who broke the ice – Abraham on the mountaintop.

It was always believed that no one could run a mile in under four minutes. That is, until 1954 when Roger Bannister did so.

In that same year four other athletes did the same. Was there something in the air that wasn’t there before? Or was it a psychological barrier which once proven that it can be done – altered the mindset enabling others to do the same.

Abraham is the first to have

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

Pirkei Avot ‫ וְ ל ֹא‬,‫ ָּכל יָ ַמי ָ ּג ַדלְ ִּתי ֵבין ַה ֲחכָ ִמים‬,‫ׁ ִש ְמעוֹ ן ְ ּבנוֹ אוֹ ֵמר‬ ‫ וְ ל ֹא ַה ִּמ ְד ָר ׁש הוּא‬.‫אתי לַ גּ וּף טוֹ ב ֶא ּ ָלא ׁ ְש ִת ָיקה‬ ִ ‫ָמ ָצ‬ ‫ ֵמ ִביא ֵח ְטא‬,‫ וְ כָ ל ַה ַּמ ְר ֶ ּבה ְד ָב ִרים‬.‫ ֶא ּ ָלא ַה ַּמ ֲעשֶׂ ה‬,‫ָה ִע ָּקר‬ - Shimon, his son, used to say: all my days I grew up among the sages, and I have found nothing better for a person than silence.

Study is not the most important thing, but actions; whoever indulges in too many words brings about sin.

This week we meet Shimon, the son of last week’s author the famous Rabban Gamliel. In the penultimate mishnah in the first perek of Pirkey Avot, we are taught the power of silence. Once in school, we used

achieved this genuine self-sacrifice. In so doing he opens the channels for Jews throughout the ages, whether on Massada, whether Chana and her seven sons, whether Jews in the Holocaust, whether Daniel Pearl – and all the many others in between – many whom you would not have necessarily known are Jewish - to be able to achieve that same level of true martyrdom – to live as a Jew and to die as a Jew. Hence Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, served as the spiritual inspiration to Jews throughout the ages. It is rightfully a single most defining moment in Jewish history.

Mishna 17 to have a teacher who delighted in giving out punishment essays of 1000 words entitled ‘Silence is golden!’ At the time, we found it hilarious (apart from the boy who had to write it!), but as time moves on and life take its natural journey, it is easy to see how powerful this phrase is.

Hashem has a special place for people who don’t demand their full rights from others. Many times it is exceptionally hard to bite your tongue in an argument but by doing this you can attain the level of the greatest of sages.

Many people study much Torah and may

have halachik brains that far exceed their comrades, however when it comes to actually doing mitzvot, sadly far too often, even people who seem to be ‘great Rabbis’ are actually people with filthy middot, who are horrible people when they want to be.

Talking too much leads to frivolity, idleness and sin, so being the loudest person in the room isn’t always such a great thing to aspire to.

It is also worthwhile remembering that if one talks Lashon Harah about you, you get all their mitzvas so silence can really be golden!

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Torah from Israel

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I Will Choose Free Will

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN The world of religious ideas was steadily coalescing. Gradually, G-d introduced humanity to fundamental principles of religion. The horrific flood demonstrated the rule of moral “cause and effect”: if humans descended into moral chaos the world would literally collapse.

Subsequently, the selection of Avraham confirmed that a mortal man could actually represent G-d in this world and speak in His name, while receiving His prophetic word. Avraham’s migration to Israel highlighted that although G-d is omnipresent and spans all reality, His presence is more intensely felt in the land of Israel. The Akeidah lessoned the world that we cannot always understand Divine purpose, but must forever submit to G-d’s higher wisdom. Furthermore, the Akeidah underlined that G-d doesn’t desire human sacrifice; Avraham was dragged to the brink of human bloodshed so that the very notion that G-d desires human blood could be clearly and unmistakably debunked. Step by step, humanity learned the lessons of monotheism- lessons which we take for granted.

The birth of Ya’akov provides an additional lesson in this “course” about religion. Ya’akov’s birth is described in elaborate detail – more so than any other pregnancy in the entire Torah. Interestingly, the pregnancy is depicted in very physiological terms. The pregnancy is detailed in three consecutive verses, each of which refer to Rivka’s stomach. We are all familiar with the course of pregnancy and the section of the human body which carries the fetus; why does the Torah continually underscore the female anatomy and its role in Rivka’s pregnancy?

The Torah’s vivid anatomical description showcases a conspicuous detail of this particular pregnancy- for the first time in the Torah’s account, two identical twins share the same womb. Highlighting the two embryos in Rivka’s abdomen, emphasizes that both Ya’akov and Esav shared the same genes and were born from the same woman. Despite their identical origins, Ya’akov and his twin Esav each charted diametrically opposed paths- one choosing sedentary study in religious tents while the other choosing violence and a world of aggression. The development of these twins- born alike but paving different paths- illustrates that Man is forever free to mould his life and shape his trajectory- regardless of his origin. The “pregnancy narrative” showcases

the unlimited power of unrestrained free will.

The tale of free will doesn’t end with Ya’akov’s choice of lifestyle. As the brother born last, Ya’akov is ineligible to be the chosen one. Undeterred by his handicap, he perseveres and, with his mother’s assistance overtakes his brother and sets history right. The legacy of representing G-d in this world should be endowed to a man whose lifestyle supports this grand mission. How can a vicious hunter whose lives by the principle of survival of the fittest, hope to model the religious principles, the nobility of the human condition and the great gifts of intellect, emotion and spirit which G-d handed to Man. Ya’akov’s early development, as well as his subsequent personal ascent, each highlight the unlimited power of human free will.

About a year ago I spoke with 22-year old Israeli students about how their bold future decisions could impact our world.

A boy politely interjected “ Rebbe we don’t see the world that way – it doesn’t feel that free and open to us”. This was a sad epiphany to me- that the younger generation saw our world as immovable and unchanging. Evidently, scientific developments over the past two centuries have had their way and have eroded our belief in human free will. Darwin proved that species evolved, transplanting genetic material in an endless race for survival.

It seemed as if our lives were shaped more deeply by random genetic events than they were by human decisions. In the 20th century the mapping of the human mind and the tracing of human behaviour to electrical stimuli suggested that human activity was compelled by neurons rather than human will. Modern Psychology argued that we are driven by deeper and sometimes darker forces which we cannot control. The legal system has exonerated criminal behaviour instigated by uncontrollable psychological forces. This displacement of free will has absolved us of personal guilt and conscience: if we are driven to action by evolutionary forces or by powerful brain waves can we bear responsibility for our actions?

Are we all just faceless and spineless creatures pinballing from decision to decision based on forces larger that our own small existence? Two centuries of mapping the human heart and mapping the human psyche has convinced us that we aren’t free. The saga of Ya’akov and his twin brother Esav- born in the same chamber but occupying vastly different

As they control our information flow, these mega-corporations appear to shape our minds and hearts. worlds- debunks this dangerous myth.

The principle of human free will has also been crushed by the outsized world we inhabit. We live in a “Big” era – our institutions and personalities have swelled and seem larger than life. Rapid technological revolution has created supersized corporations such as Apple, Google Facebook and Twitter which supersede the natural size of a “company” and have the appearance of shaping our reality. As they control our information flow, these mega-corporations appear to shape our minds and hearts. It is difficult to sense freedom when your ideas flow through such large and controlling info-canals.

Likewise, celebrities have achieved godlike status making average people who don’t command the attention of millions, feel small and insignificant. Free will is meant to swell human identity; we are meant to feel empowered by the free will gifted by G-d. In the modern world we feel small and we feel driven by inchoate forces beyond our control. It is crucial to magnify free will and amplify human potential in a world which shrinks our stature and mutes our personal voice.

Although Judaism asserts unlimited freedom of choice, we still believe in a predetermined collective future. Western civilization views history as progressive, human progress as evolutionary, and the

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future as unknown. Judaism acknowledges a predetermined conclusion to history: the world will be redeemed and humanity will flock to Yersuhalayim and to G-d in a state of spiritual awakening. We know exactly how it ends and where it ends; the only remaining question is how soon it will end and whose shoulders will carry history toward its inevitable conclusion.

On a personal level each individual has the unlimited capacity to act freely and to shape an otherwise undetermined future.

On a grand scale the general future of humanity is pre-set and unchangeable. How our freely determined decisions contribute to a predetermined historical future is G-d’s domain. He possesses sufficient algorithms to amass all our personal decisions and calculate the predetermined future. On a personal level it is crucial we act completely free undistracted by our confidence of how history will inevitably conclude.

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

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Weekly Dvar Torah F RO M ERETZ Y I S R A E L

Tranquil Triumphs

BY MRS. YAEL LEIBOWITZ There is something to be said for revolutionaries. For founders. For the people that have the foresight, and the daring to chart a course untrodden. Revolutionaries put their ideals to the test by living the principles they believe can transform the world around them, and history will always be enamoured by such people.

Avraham was a revolutionary. G-d told him to leave his father’s home, and his native land, and to forge a new path, the results of which would only be realized long after his death. Avraham followed the call, and for that reason, Avraham remains one of the most influential and inspiring characters in Jewish tradition, and in western culture at large.

But there is another type of leadership, modelled in this week’s parasha, that gets decidedly less fanfare, but on which revolutionaries depend. In chapter 26 of Bereishit, we are given insight into the often-overlooked strength of Yitzchak’s persona, and the critical role he played

in the formation of the people of Israel.

At the outset of the chapter we are told that there was a famine in Canaan, like there was “in the days of Avraham.” (Gen 26:1) Naturally, like his father, Yitzchak was inclined to go to the Land of Egypt, where crop yields were contingent on the overflow of the Nile. But G-d appeared to Yitzchak and instructed him to stay in the land. Yitzchak, unlike Avraham, is not granted freedom of movement. Where Avraham’s life was marked by change and progress, Yitzchak’s was marked by stable consistency. But stability is not stasis, and consistency is not stagnation. And in fact, the narrative that follows the injunction to “stay put” gives us insight into just what “staying put” looks like, and what it accomplishes.

Isaac sowed in that land and reaped a hundredfold that same year. The L-rd blessed him, and the man grew richer and richer until he was very wealthy: he acquired flocks and herds, and a large household, so that the Philistines envied him. And the Philistines stopped up all the wells which his father’s servants had dug in the days of his father Avraham, filling them with earth.” (Gen 26:12-15) And so, the parasha tells us, Yitzchak went from one well to the next, undoing the damage that had been done, and reaching back down to the depths his father’s servants had struck during Avraham’s lifetime. Yitzchak met the bullying and intimidation tactics of the Philistine people with equanimity, resilience, and a doggedness borne of his commitment

Yitzchak earned the respect of the people around him through his quiet successes, and then made sure to channel that respect towards G-d…

to his father’s dreams. Ultimately, after witnessing Yitzchak’s extraordinary accomplishments, the Philistines propose a peace treaty stating: “We now see plainly that the L-rd has been with you.” (Gen 26:28) Yitzchak wasn’t confrontational, or aggressive, and he didn’t attract attention with grandiose speeches or mission statements. Yitzchak earned the respect of the people around him through his quiet successes, and then made sure to channel that respect towards G-d whose call his father had answered. Every movement needs its founders. But movements, just as badly, needs those willing to sublimate their egos for the sake of continuity and posterity. They needs those willing to redig the wells that have been plugged up by the movement’s challengers. Yitzchak, often impugned for his passivity and meekness, proves in this week’s parasha to be the very link, without which, no chain of tradition could exist.

Mrs. Yael Leibowitz teaches at the Matan Women’s Institute for Torah Learning and the Pardes Institute. She is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/speakers).

A TORAH BITE FOR THE SHABBAT TABLE

The Mechanism of Prayer RABBI GOODMAN Time is a funny thing. Each day we face the challenges we faced the day before and will inevitably face the next day. Day after day we rehash the same thoughts in the same areas: how we could be doing better and accomplishing more. We dream of a brighter future, where the stresses of today will be the stresses of the past. Then, without noticing, the days turn into weeks, the weeks into months, and the months into years; before we know it, we have been busy with the same challenges, dreams and aspirations for the last ten years.

This is also true of our personal prayers.

Somewhere down the line it dawns on a person that he has been davening for the same thing for years and years but not actually gotten anywhere. Why not? Isn’t Tefillah supposed to be our specialty? Our weapon? How long are we supposed to carry on asking for the same thing?

Parshas Toldos begins with a vivid description of Yitzchak and Rivka both davening in opposite corners of the room for a child. The Pasuk says, “Yitzchak entreated Hashem opposite his wife,

because she was barren.” Rabbi Bahya ben Asher ibn Halawa (1255-1340), known as the Rabbeinu Behaye, queries the Pasuk’s presentation. One would have expected the Torah to state initially that Rivka was barren and then relate that Yitzchak and Rivka entreated Hashem because she was barren. Instead, however, the Pasuk tells us that Yitzchak and Rivka davened and only then explains why.

To resolve this perplexity, the Rabbeinu Behaye explains that the spiritual mechanism of prayer works differently from what we might imagine. We are used to thinking that prayer is the appropriate and necessary response to solve the countless difficulties and challenges we face. We ask Hashem to cure us when we are sick, to support us when we are poor and guide us when we are lost. The reality, however, is that prayer is not a response and a solution, rather it is a goal.

The Mishna in Pirkei Avos tells us that the world stands on three pillars: Torah, Avodah (prayer) and Gemilus Chassadim (acts of lovingkindness). Should one of these pillars cease to function, the world would collapse. The world needs a

constant supply of Torah learning, prayer, and acts of lovingkindness. They are non-negotiable and unconditional. Torah learning does not depend on ignorance, prayer does not depend on difficulties and challenges, and acts of lovingkindness do not depend on the needy.

The Rabbeinu Behaye explains that Hashem sends us trials and tribulations to ensure that there is a constant flow of prayer in the world. Instead of thinking that our challenges are the core, and that prayer is the means, we must realize that prayer is the core and our challenges are the means. For this reason, the Torah first states that Yitzchak and Rivka davened – the primary element – and then states their reason for davening – the secondary element.

Consequently, instead of asking why Hashem hasn’t answered our prayers after all these years, it might be worth asking ourselves if the quantity and quality of our prayers would be the same were the difficulties we face not to exist. If we would work hard to ensure that our Tefillos were always up to scratch, regardless of our life circumstances, then Hashem would not

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need to send us trials and tribulations. On the contrary, He would bestow upon us an abundance of blessing to help us continue sustaining the world with our Torah, Avodah and Gemilus Chassadim.

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

He encourages feedback & ideas: ben@mydvartorah.com

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Toledot RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

PROGENY & POSTERITY

The sidra opens with the verse, “This is the progeny of Isaac the son of Abraham – Abraham begot Isaac” (Gen. 25:19).

Since every word in the Torah is important, why tell us that Abraham begot Isaac when we already know that Isaac was the son of Abraham?

Rashi explains that we not only need to know who was the father and who was the son, but that they looked like one another.

When you see father and son (or mother and daughter) together, you see an uncanny likeness between parent and child.

But once you get to know them you see that there are major differences between them. They each have their own personality, their own habits, their own approaches to life. There is a sameness – and a difference.

No wonder there is a berachah, “Blessed are You who makes everyone different.”

Each generation has its own problems and challenges. It’s great to learn from your parents’ example and apply it when you can, but don’t try to be a carbon copy of your parents.

SITTING STILL IN A ROOM

Two brothers, and such a contrast.

“Esau was a cunning hunter, a man

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learned how to sit still in a room”.

In the Jewish judgment, contemplative people who sit in a room or dwell in a tent are the ones who make all the difference. of the field: Jacob was a quiet man, dwelling in tents” (Gen. 25:27).

The world seems to prefer Esau as a role model – dashing, dynamic, on the go, looked up to and admired by his contemporaries.

Jacob is what used to be called a “swot”, curled up with a book, uninterested in sporting prowess or physical pursuits – a person “dwelling in tents”, almost a parasite, doing nothing for society.

One can leaven both descriptions and find faults in Esau and virtues in Jacob, but to appreciate Jacob it is necessary to ask who it was who achieved the really significant changes and developments in history.

If the criterion is who marched with the armies and fought the battles, the answer is not Jacob. But it was the Jacobs who dwelt in tents who developed the great ideas that moulded mankind – summed up by Pascal who said, “All the evils of life are due to the fact that man has not

MY FAVOURITE SIDRA

Everyone has a favourite Biblical story, psalm or sidra.

I don’t much like that game. I can plead the case for every chapter of the Tanach. So can almost every rabbi.

One colleague tells his congregation every single Shabbat, “What a powerful parashah it is this week!” Another says, “What a really great sidra with so many ideas that wash over our minds!”

Now I have retired I can, however, allow myself a special fondness for this week’s portion. Not so much because of the story but by reason of the title: “Toledot” – generations, narrative, history.

I spend much of my time these days researching and writing history.

I had a teacher who told us that “history” was two words – “his” and “story”.

Those days I didn’t realise how sexist he was. Did he ever think that there was such a thing as “her story” too?

His etymology was wrong in any

It’s great to learn from your parents’ example and apply it when you can, but don’t try to be a carbon copy of your parents.

case, since “history” is from a classical root that means to enquire or judge.

Nonetheless I have been a history addict all my life. I have never been satisfied to accept things without delving into the factors that made them. Nor am I content to use tunnel vision and not see the wider context.

But I have another agenda, another tense: not only what is and how it came, but what will be. History is the background, the present day the arena, and destiny the challenge.

This is the thought which I ponder each year when I think of Toledot.

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

Chovat Halevavot Hilchot Shabbat The Chovot Halevavot opens the fourth gate of his book with detailing the benefits, both material and spiritual, of one who has Bitachon.

A person can only serve G-d and be fully committed to His Torah if they trust in Him. A slave is fully dependant on his master and if we want to be able to serve Hashem properly we must realise that we are completely in His hands.

A person who places their trust in someone other than G-d causes the Divine Providence is removed from him and the person is placed at the mercy of the person in whom they trust. If one trusts in their own wisdom, talent or might, Hashem can have that removed from them in a split second too. Hashem can also make the person not enjoy their wealth. This can be a holiday ruined, a loss of sense of taste, or domestic issues - (May G-d protect us all).

We are also encouraged to not dedicate too much mental power to attain wealth,

for it can vanish in an instant. Think of the stock market as one contemporary example.

Worse still, the wealth itself can be the cause of a person’s downfall.

We all know people whose wealth has been the cause of their lack of long-term true success.

On the other hand, one who trusts in Hashem, their trust will bring them to not be subservient to anyone, certainly not to flatter the wrongdoers, agree with them on matters contrary to service of G-d, nor will they be afraid of others or of their disagreement.

Chovot Halevavot cites numerous verses from Tanach which extol the virtues and pronounce the blessings of one who has faith and the reverse for one who does not.

Bottom line is a person who has Bitachon has a clear mind and broad heart with which to serve Hashem and learn Torah in peace. Simply put, one who has Bitachon is happy.

There are a number of further important points to note regarding Tochen.

Dry soil which becomes attached to one’s body may be removed. The reason for this is due to the considerable discomfort that is caused by its presence on the body. (Removing the soil would have been only a Rabbinic prohibition as the person is not interested in the crushed soil, whereas if a person would want the crushed soil it would be a Torah prohibition.)

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If a person’s shoes or clothes have had dry mud stuck to them, they may not remove it themselves (owing to the aforementioned Rabbinic prohibition) but instead may request of a non-Jew to do so for them. Although directly requesting a non-Jew to perform a forbidden activity on Shabbat is generally forbidden, the Rabbis allowed it here due to their protection of human dignity “Kavod Ha’Briot”.

There are other Melachot to be aware of when cleaning mud or semi-moist food from clothing. One is “Me’Laben” cleaning. If one succeeds in completely removing the stain - even without water, they transgress this prohibition. Instead, one should use the blade of a knife, gently running it over the surface of the clothing. A non Jew may be asked to clean off the stain but not with water.

One may chop food into small (but preferably not too small) pieces for an animal belonging to a Jew. Raw food is generally forbidden to chop into small pieces; however, if the raw food is only fit for animals, it is permissible to chop it on behalf of the animal.

All of the above is provided the animal is too young or weak to eat the food without it being chopped, or else it is prohibited to do so on Shabbat.

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Toledot

Toledot Word Search

Parshat Toledot is the first time we come across twins! Yitzchak and Rivka, who waited for twenty long years, are finally blessed with two lads! The older one Esav is the wild one, the younger one Yaakov, the calm one. Esav sells his birthright to Yaakov in exchange for some lentil soup. Yitzchak visits Pelishtim and makes a covenant with Avimelech the king. He uncovers wells and sows food there, with amazing returns. Yitzchak wants to bless Esav but Rivka arranges for Yaakov to get them instead. Esav is furious and Yaakov leaves home to get married in Charan to his cousin(s).

The blessings Yaakov receives are for material success in this world, lots of produce and money. This was intended for Esav so he could support Yaakov's spiritual goals. In the end Esav gets a blessing of "Living by his sword". One thing we are taught is that either Yaakov and his descendants are more powerful, or Esav. When we have a strong "voice of Yaakov" we have defence from the "hands of Esav".

Tangram Challenge!

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BIRTHRIGHT • BLESSING • DISGUISE • EISAV • HUNTER • TWINS • WELLS • YAAKOV

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

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Toledot

In a nutshell Parshat Toledot tells the story of a couple who waited for children for twenty years! Yitzchak, who was forty when he married Rivka, was well aware of the golden legacy he was to pass down and prayed for a child as did his wife.

Eventually, she was expecting, and it felt like there was an internal struggle. Indeed, she was told that there were actually two children inside her and one wold overpower the other.

She gives birth to two boys; one whom they named Esav and the other Yaakov. Esav was the rough one and Yaakov the gentleman. Esav spent his day in fields and Yaakov in the tents (studying Torah). Yitzchak nonetheless loved Esav – because he understood that all challenges come from Hashem. We are taught that Rivka’s love, however, was stronger for Yaakov.

One day, Esav comes home from a particularly tiring day (our Sages taught that he committed various sins that day – not least the murder of Nimrod, from whom he took the coveted clothing passed down from Adam) and smelt something good on the stovetop. He notices

that Yaakov is cooking lentils and requests some of him.

Yaakov had one request in return – let me have the rights of the firstborn! Only Yaakov was suitable to continue the legacy of Avraham and Yitzchak. His hunger pangs overcame his sense and Esav agreed.

Yitzchak is forced to travel to G’rar where he is concerned his wife will be captured so he explains that this is her sister. Avimelech the king later rebukes him for saying so, but issues a warning that no one may bother them. Yitzchak then tries to reopen the wells his father had dug during his sojourn in Pelishtim and ends up in an argument with the locals about them. The third well however, he enjoyed in peace. He also farms the land and sees great blessing. Avimelech asks for a peace treaty which he agreed to.

Esav gets married to two idol-worshipping Hittite women, to the chagrin of his father. As his father grew older and blind, he wished to bless Esav. He calls Esav in and requests of him to hunt some animals for food. Rivka overheard this request and called Yaakov in and told him

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.

to do exactly the same – prepare food for his father and present himself as Esav! Yaakov was worried – what if my father feels my smooth skin and notices that I am not Esav? Rivka tells Yaakov not to worry and dresses him in Esav’s rough clothing, covering his arm and neck. Yaakov goes in and gives the food to his father who checks by feeling his son and proclaims the famous words, “The voice is the voice of Yaakov” – respectful, soft-spoken, “And the hands (feel like they) are the hands of Esav”!

Yitzchak showers the blessings on Yaakov for the “dew of the heaven and fat of the earth” and more. Yaakov is about to leave the room and guess who arrives?

Esav! Esav is furious when his father tells him that he has already given out the blessings and gives Esav the famous “blessing” – “You shall live by your sword”.

Esav vows to avenge the theft of his blessings. Yaakov is sent off by his father (at the request of his mother) to the home of Lavan, where he will eventually set up his own home. In the meantime, Esav marries a child of Yishmael.

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! ant art oar oat ora ran rat

sat tan tar ants anus arts aunt

aura auto oars oats rant rats roan

rota soar star tans tarn tart taut

tuna aorta arson aunts autos rants roast

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rotas sauna sonar start stoat tarts taunt

tauts toast tunas aortas rattan sonata strata

tartan taunts truant rattans tartans truants astronaut

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Q: What is fast, loud and crunchy?

A: A rocket chip!

Q: What did one plate say to the other plate?

A: Dinner is on me!

Q: What is worse than raining cats and dogs?

A: Hailing taxis!

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. What has a neck but no head?

3. Bobby throws a ball as hard as he can.

It comes back to him, even though nothing and nobody touches it.

How?

Q: Why did the kid cross the playground?

A: To get to the other slide.

2. Why would a man living in New York not be buried in Chicago?

3) He throws it straight up.

1. A bottle!

2) Because he is still alive.

1. Double-decker bus 2. Over to you 3. Lake Ontario

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4. Equal rights 5. Get underway 6. Toucan

19 NOVEMBER 2020 34 SPORT

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Mourinho vs Guardiola Sixteen-goal Lions could highlight after the rout Scrabble in Cup international break

BY DAVID SAFFER

BY DAVID SAFFER Reiss Mogilner scored six goals as Maccabi The Premier League is back after the interLondon Lions thumped Scrabble A in the nationalround breakof and plenty of tasty second thethere Cyrilare Anekstein Cup. fixtures for armchair supporters to enjoy this The Premier League side racked up a 16-0 weekend. win with Daniel Green and Michael Kenley Heading upa the actionEd is Brafman, a top of Dathe both bagging hat-trick. tableDinkin, clash and between sit in vid AdamLiverpool Hassanaliwho completthird and pacesetters City ed theplace rout in a mismatch of aLeicester tie. at Lions Anfield (Sunday, Jose could have19.15pm) scored inalthough the opening Mourinho’s Tottenham versus Pep minute of the clash butHotspur soon opened the Guardiola’s City could be the scoring and Manchester led 9-0 by half time. pick action.One team, though outThof e the Division The Foxes haveaway made superb classed, battled toathe end. start to the campaign and in sharpshooter Lions boss was lost for wordsJamie at fullVardy time have the top scorer in the such wasequal the display from hisleague team with who eightevery goals respect from as to many games. Leicester’s gave the opposition. talisman striker has scored in the last three “I’m not really sure there’s anything to league all to wins, including thetoonly say, we games, are happy make it through the goal against Wolves and Arsenal. next round of the cup, ” he commented.

Brendon Rogers will to Hendon United Sportsset ranup outhis 3-1team victors play on the counter will fancy his against League Oneattack outfiand t North London team’s chances of nicking a goal against JurRaiders. gen Reds who areearly shorn a number ThKlopp’s e Premier side led inof the second of first team half only forplayers.

Raiders to equalise but struck With defenders Virgil in vanround Dijk two latecentral goals to book a place and Joe Gomez both out for an estimated three of the competition. sixHendon months,now stand-in stopper Fabinho turn their attentions toand the Trent Alexander-Arnold, both injured, league as they travel to Oakwood A forin a additiontop to Mo Salah, who is self-isolating crucial of the table clash on Sunday after returning positive tests whilst on inter(10am). national with team Egyptstunned this is a real for Danielduty Kristall’s the test league the defending champions. leaders last month when they won 2-0, a Liverpool have continued get results in victory would move them totowithin a point spite of a growing injury list, but Salah, who of Hendon with a match in hand. like Vardy hasinscored eight, will of befiaxtures, huge Elsewhere the latest round miss. He North has been ever present remains 10-man London Galaxybut made it a in Egypt. Salah will in follow government and three-way title race the only Division One Premier League guidelines on when he will clash of the day after defeating Oakwood B. beJamie available to play Murray sawagain. red early on but Galaxy Another contest sees rallied witheye-watering goals from Josh Cohen andTotJatenham City an on important Saturday 2-1 evening. cob Leighhost to record away Guardiola’s team have not been firing on win. allGalaxy cylinders andRedbridge he will know thatCare a victory head Jewish A in at the second placed side will launch City’s the table by just one point after 10 matches, league campaign. injury unlike third place FairlopTheir FC are fivewoes, points beKlopp’s, are easing with the return to trainhind with two games in hand. ingRafi of Sergio Fernandinho BloomAguero, scored for Oakwood. and Raheem Sterling.

“It was a fantastic performance in a

16-goal Maccabi London Lions Jose Mourinho

PHOTO: WIKIMDEIA

But this could to be theGalaxy match of the must-win game,prove ” commented playweekend with Mourinho er-manager Luke Lewis. likely to play his star strike Gareth Bale-Harry Kane“We sat force back in and allowed Oakwood the Son Heung-min.

Both Kane and Son and are ball, given the one-man advantage among the league’s so thisattack is an looked to hit them top on scorers the counter opportunity with pace. to send a signal to competitors that Tottenham can make tilt at the title.

“Both goals came downathe right-hand With Leigh Bale returning to full thisCohen clash side. crossed the firstfitness one into is intriguing and there will be plenty of talent to finish, before slotting home himself. Up onfishow. to rst we go.”

Southampton in the Th e Division are Twocurrently title race alsoChamtook League course, its apions twist with spots, leaguealthough leadersofHerstwood early going days, but they a few surVale down to have a 2-1 sprung defeat at Temple prises so far.

Fortune.

Ralph Hasenhuttl got his team more playFaithfold B have has played a game ing toVale a winning system.

Ings,win who than but moved levelDanny with a 5-3 at is unavailable, causes Masters. any team trouble, North London Raiders which a blow but twice skipper WardJacobisKalms struck for James Fortune who Prowse,through who withdrew England scored leading from scorerthe James Milsquad for League letwith hisNations 17th goal of the games season.is back in training.

Andwas Saints for their The result allwill the need morehim remarkable tripTemple to Molineux face Wolves on Monday as were to down to 11 players with night. Nuno will have his side ‘keeper Ben Espirito Rebuck Santo dislocating a shoulder fired afterup. going down to a home defeat in theup warm against last time win out and “This Leicester was a fantastic givencould the

Pep Guardiola

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

edge this clash.

Should Southampton slip up then fifthplaced Chelsea will expect to move up though they will have to be on form for their trip to Tyneside where they take on Newcastle United.

The Blues have been in fine form in recent weeks, scoring plenty of goals with Timo Werner, Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount all impressing. But Frank Lampard’s side have also shown a ruthless edge in defence especially” with experienceFortune of Thiacircumstances, saidthedelighted go Silva.

ButLinden.

Lampard will be delighted that boss Simon Ben Chilwell training “We had a reported number for of England players out, Reafter an injury scare. buck got injured, so I couldn’t have asked Steve Bruce’s have been any more fromteam the players.

Weinconsistent wish Ben a so far and are capable of surprising Chelspeedy recovery. sea smart money is onperformance, a win for the “Itbut wasthe a proper old school visitors. we battled and defended for the 90 minutes Level points with Experience the Londoners are and tookonour chances. proved Aston Villa who will be favourites to overto be the winner. It’s a big win, one we will come lowly Brighton Villa on Park. enjoy and we hope toatbuild it in 2019.”

Dean Smith’s team have picked a numHe added, “Th is win marks 50 up years as a ber of sensational results soNigel far. Their 7-2 football club and will be one Kyte and drubbing of Liverpoolwith grabbed the headlines everyone associated the club from day

but they also defeated Leicester and were clinical in a 3-0 win against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

Ollie Watkins has been immensely impressive but the key to Villa’a success has been the mature performances of skipper Jack Grealish who is now making headlines for England. Villa old-boy Gareth Southgate handed Grealish his debut and is clearly thinking towards the Euros next summer.

This could well be the breakthrough season for the young midfielder.

The Gunners, meantime, travel to Leeds United and this is a match both sides are desperate to win. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will be smarting from a humbling defeat by Villa whilst Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds have slipped from their early season form, having lost their last four league fixtures after grinding out a draw against Guardiola’s City.

Particularly disappointing was a 4-1 loss at Crystal Palace before the break and the PHOTO: DAVID SAFFER Whites are clearly missing midfielder Kalvin Phillips. They have injury concerns but Bielsa needs to find a way to halt the slide down the table, although they are seven points clear of the bottom three. This could be an entertaining score draw.

When it comes to inconsistency Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United have been the kings but every time they bounce back and they are clear favourites on paper to dispatch third-bottom West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford, especially after a terrific win at Everton.

With one willBruno enjoy.”Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and a host star Emanuel players atwas his disposal, Vale boss of Jacob quick to United should quickly climb table but wish Rebuck well following histhe injury. don’t write the importantly, Baggies who everyone could cause “First andoff most at a shock.

Vale would like to wish the Fortune ‘keeper Of therecovery, bottom four clubs,to Fulham areback the a quick we hope see him only ones to register win butas they could”run on the football pitchaas soon possible, he into Carlo Ancelotti’s team about to return to said. winning As for ways. the defeat, Emanuel commented, Moyes willhow expect West Ham “ItDavid doesn’t matter bighis a squad you Unitedyou team to bag all the pointsfor at Sheffield have, can never account unavailUnited or who are really for team goals ability injury.

Only fistruggling ve of today’s whilst Palace a tight affair ata played in our could recent edge win over FC Team, Burnley. lack of togetherness and poor individual

“It was a proper old school performance, we battled and defended for the 90 minutes and took our chances. Experience proved to be the winner.”

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Playing their part in the beautiful game At a time when there is a huge media spotlight on the football experiences of black players, coaches and officials and the emergence of Black Lives Matter, the active involvement of the Jewish community in UK football is often overlooked.

Leading lawyer and life-long Chelsea fan, Jonathan Metliss, chairman of Action Against Discrimination (AAD), lists the massive Jewish contribution to the game.

The Jewish Weekly is going to highlight this contribution over the coming weeks and especially the lack of action when it comes to anti-Semitism in the sport.

Part 1: Owners and club officials

They used to say that Jewish people didn’t want to play football, just own the football clubs!

The Jewish community have always loved their sport and football especially. It was a way for Jewish migrants, in particular from Central and Eastern Europe and Russia (where football was already established), to integrate into mainstream UK society.

It is true there have been, and are, many Jewish owners of UK football clubs.

In the past, for example, Arsenal (Danny Fiszman and David Dein), Tottenham Hotspur (Irving Scholar, Paul Bobroff and Alan Sugar), Nottingham Forest (Irving Scholar again), Everton (Robert Earl), Leyton Orient (Harry Sussman and Brian Winston), Crystal Palace (Mark Goldberg), Charlton Athletic (Gliksten family), AFC Bournemouth (Stanley Cohen), Leeds United (Manny Cussins

and Leslie Silver), Luton Town (David Kohler and Peter Nelkin), Bradford City (Geoffrey Richmond), Millwall (Dr David Eppel, his son Leonard and Reg Burr), Portsmouth (Gaydamak family), Southend United (the Rubin family), Birmingham City (the Gold brothers), Fulham (Sir Eric Miller), Oldham Athletic (Simon Corney, Danny Gazal and Simon Blitz) and Barnet (Stan Flashman).

It is little known that Stanley Cohen was behind Michael Knighton’s failed bid for Manchester United in 1988. Stan Flashman was also known for being Britain’s bestknown ticket tout of his time.

ENIC (Joe Lewis and Daniel Levy), of which Jonathan Metliss was also a director, acquired stakes and ownership of Glasgow Rangers, AEK Athens, FC Basle, Slavia Prague, Vicenza FC and, ultimately, Spurs who have had a succession of Jewish chairman since 1982. Howard Stanton, chairman

of ENIC, was also a director of Glasgow Rangers.

Today, there is Manchester United (Glazer family), Spurs (ENIC, Joe Lewis and Daniel Levy), Chelsea (Roman Abramovich), Burnley (Mike Garlick), Brighton (the Bloom family), West Ham (David Gold, the Harris family), Portsmouth (Michael Eisner) and Lincoln City (Clive Nates, Sean Melnick, Ashley Mendelowitz and Greg Levine who all hail from South Africa).

Clifford Crown, chairman at Brentford, is Jewish, as are Michael Edelson, a Manchester United director, Jeff Mostyn, chairman at AFC Bournemouth, Ivor Heller, commercial director at AFC Wimbledon, and Ian Livingston (now Baron Livingston of Parkhead) who stepped down as a director of Celtic after receiving anti-Semitic abuse. Past chairmen have included David Bernstein (Manchester City), Sir Eric Miller (Fulham), Fred

Bearman (Tottenham Hotspur) chairman, director and president for 55 years, Jack Wiseman (Birmingham City), David Buchler (Barnet, also Tottenham vice-chairman) and the late Walter Hubert was vice-chairman of Blackburn Rovers for many years.

David Goldstone, who has recently passed away, was chairman of both Cardiff City and Swansea City and Dr Clifford Grossmark was chairman of Gillingham FC 1961-83.

Keith Edelman was Arsenal Managing Director, Clive Berlin was CEO at QPR, Claude Littner (of “The Apprentice”) chief executive of Spurs, and Martin Spencer Chelsea’s Finance Director (1979-1980). Harry Bloom, grandfather of Brighton’s current owner Tony Bloom, and his son Ray were actively involved in Worthing FC and both became directors of Brighton (with Harry as vice chairman in the 1970’s).

Directors have also included Lord Michael Grade (Charlton Athletic), his uncle Lew and father Leslie (Leyton Orient), Bryan Bodek (Manchester City), Peter Leaver was a director and chairman of Tottenham, Igal Yawetz and Howard Shore (Spurs), David Meller (Watford) and Keith Wiseman (chairman at Southampton, possibly).

Next week we will consider the players, leagues, administrators and professionals.

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