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24 May 2017/28 IYAR 5777

WORLD LEADERS CONDEMN MANCHESTER TERROR ATTACK

BY JAMES MARLOW & ISAAC SHERMAN

As the dust settles following the Manchester Arena bombing, more details have emerged about the catastrophe, as leaders from around the world continue to offer their tributes and condolences.

Police say that 22-year-old Salman Abedi, a student at Salford University, blew himself up as American singer Ariana Grande had just finished performing her last song on stage.

The casualties were high, with 22 people murdered so far, 59 injured, some critically, and children as young as 8 years old being counted among the dead. The attack took place at just after 10.30pm on Monday night in a public area just outside the entrance to the Manchester Arena next to Victoria station.

Manchester is home to the second largest Jewish community in Britain and several terror attacks have been foiled by the security forces in the past few years including an

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attack to target synagogues.

Condemnation from world leaders was swift as the number of deaths were continuing to rise. Prime Minister Theresa May gave a statement outside Downing Street, where she condemned the “appalling” terrorist attack, as “one of the worst terror attacks the UK had seen.” She said that the city had fallen victim to “a callous terrorist attack,” and that her thoughts and prayers were with all the victims, families and friends of those affected.”

President Donald Trump who was visiting Bethlehem to meet with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, told the media that “this wicked ideology must be obliterated.” He went on to say how “all innocent lives must be protected, and my thoughts are with the people of Manchester.”

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The Queen expresses sympathy with Manchester CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted that “The Government of Israel strongly condemns last night’s awful terrorist attack in Manchester”.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said, “Today will be a day of immense grief and pain as we mourn for those who have lost their lives in the city of Manchester. This now looks to be the worst terror attack we have suffered in nearly twelve years and first and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims.

The devastation of these attacks, both at home and abroad, is becoming all too familiar but so too is the remarkable resolve with

a country. When we are attacked by hate, we respond with love.

Nothing and no one can divide us.”

US President, Stephen Pack tweeted: “The attack last night in Manchester is a corruption of every value we hold dear. Such hate-filled evil defies description.

It serves only to strengthen our resolve to respond with prayers and compassion for all those affected.”

Board of Deputies President Jonathan Arkush said: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those caught up in the Manchester Arena attack at the Ariana Grande concert last night. This savage attack on young people will require a response, but we will not hand victory to the attacker by allowing

Rabbi Shneur Cohen giving out food and drink to police officers

which we react to them. There are reports of hotels providing free accommodation to young people and of taxis turning off their meters to get them back to their loved ones.

This attack, intended to inflict maximum carnage on innocent young lives, is the purest evil. But our reaction defines who we are as

ourselves to become divided. The response by people of all communities in Manchester, offering shelter and transport to each other, shows our society’s resilience, and that terrorism will not win.”

The Jewish Weekly’s ‘Ask the Rabbi’ columnist Rabbi Schochet tweeted his condolences to the

Mizrachi celerbrate Yom Yerushalayim A major event was hosted by Mizrachi UK & Mizrachi World Movement, from the Kotel on Tuesday. Jews around the world celebrated Yom Yerushalayim and the 50th anniversary of the

reunification of Jerusalem. Chief Rabbi Mirvis and Rabbi Lord Sacks together with members of Tribe, joined together in Israel for this momentous occasion, which streamed live on social media.

victims and their families, and posted a picture that read ”those who are at war with others are not at peace with themselves.”

CST in Manchester put out a security bulletin that read, “the attack follows many warnings from police and government in recent months regarding the continuing high level of terrorist threat. This unfortunate reality demonstrates why CST works so closely with local Jewish communities, police and government in order to secure our community.”

They stressed that “there is no specific information indicating a planned attack against British Jews at this time, but all Jewish locations have been asked to ensure that security measures are fully implemented.”

Rabbi Arnold Saunders, Conservative councillor for Kersal ward in the city of Salford, and in the constituency of Blakely and Broughton, which runs to within yards of the MEN arena, said that “this was an evil atrocity, perpetrated against the citizens of greater Manchester. To target a concert full of teenagers and children, is akin to Amalek, who targeted the weak. However, we must remain strong and united, and must not allow these people to divide our community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. I would like to pay tribute to our wonderful emergency services and hospital staff, as well as the members of Her Majesty’s armed forces, who gave their expertise, as well as the many volunteers who helped attend the injured or offered hospitality or help to those in need.”

One Jewish father, who wishes to remain anonymous, told The Jewish Weekly how his family were caught up in the drama. “I dropped my wife and 11-year-old daughter off at the arena together with my daughter’s friend. Whilst they were enjoying the concert, I headed to the gym for a few hours, planning to pick them up at around 11pm.

“Suddenly, I received a panicked call from my wife telling me to get down there immediately as there had been a big explosion, and people were running for their lives, shouting hysterically. I drove down there as fast as I could, alongside another car whose driver must have received the same news, as we both raced down Bury New Road at the same time, nearly hitting each other in

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the process.

“As I got towards the arena, I had to stop the car as there were police everywhere and lots of ambulance sirens screaming into the night. I told my wife where I had parked and was extremely relieved to see her arrive a few minutes later with the two girls.

“My wife told me how they had all been in the auditorium at the time, just as the encore had finished, when they heard the loudest bang of their lives. After a couple of seconds of silence, the arena descended into absolute pandemonium, and she nearly lost their daughter in the mad scramble to escape, ultimately yanking her over a row of seats to keep hold of her. My daughter and her friend were understandably kept off school on Tuesday, as the realisation of what happened slowly started sinking into their minds.”

Jonny Wineberg, vice-president of the Jewish Representative Council, told on twitter how his daughter was at the event, and how grateful he was that she was unharmed.

On behalf of the council, he gave a statement that said “it is with great sadness that we respond to the terrible news from the Manchester Arena. Very few of us can begin to comprehend the horror of this event. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured and the families of the bereaved. This was a terrorist attack on children and young people in our city.

Our commitment is to unite and remember that Manchester is a great city made up of many communities. A city that has faced adversity over the years.

A city that has always recovered because of the resilience of all its communities.

We commend the thoroughly professional work of the authorities and emergency services and the generosity of the hotels, taxi drivers and others who gave free accommodation and transport to young people last night. We remain resilient and vigilant in the face of adversity, just as we did in 1996.

Whoever has committed this atrocity does not represent any community in our city, they represent evil, hatred and despair.

They will never prevail. We will respond with love.

We call on all people in our city to reach out to those whom we may see as different and ensure that they know we stand together. We stand together with

An increased police presence in the aftermath of the attack

all people of faith who condemn this atrocity and have sent their prayers and messages of support for Manchester. No matter what faith, creed or nationality, we are all Manchester.”

After witnessing the very worst in human behaviour, the way that the people of Manchester responded highlighted the very best that people are capable of. Many people, including the new mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham, took to social media to offer accommodation to anyone who was stranded, using the hashtag #RoomForManchester to help hysterical and traumatised people. Chabad Rabbi Shneur Cohen was seen giving out hot drinks and food to police officers.

And in a fitting tribute to the people of Manchester, Her Majesty The Queen released a statement on Tuesday. “The whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury in Manchester last night of so many people, adults and children, who had just been enjoying a concert.

I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured.

I want to thank all the members of the emergency services, who have responded with such professionalism and care. And I would like to express my admiration for the way the people of Manchester have responded, with humanity and compassion, to this act of barbarity.”

WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 01 News 07 Israel News 12 Community 19 Judaism 23 Business Pull-Out 27 Sports 30 Kids

34 Youth 38 Women 42 Comedy 43 Nutrition 44 Food 46 Music 47 Parenting

Wishing all our readers a chag sameach. Our next issue will be out on Wednesday 7th June

24 MAY 2017

NEWS 3

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Mothers making a difference

BY MICAELA BLITZ

Five wonderful mothers from Shenley have managed to achieve something amazing for children and parents in the local area.

Through their incredible hard work, determination and fundraising they raised a staggering amount of money to build The Shenley Park Toddler Area.

“The whole thing started when Sophie (Burnham-Miller) posted something on a Facebook group about the park at the Shenley Tea Rooms,” Linzie Barr explains “I had actually visited the park myself with my youngest son, Jacob, and had always thought that something for toddlers and young babies would be great, so I got in contact with her and said I would like to help, and things started moving from there…”

They approached The Shenley Park Trust Director, Glyn Dredge, about the park. They explained that the wood chip and some of the play equipment were not suitable for toddlers and young babies, and that a separate area for this age group would be ideal. Whilst Glyn agreed with them to some extent, the main issue was that to do this would be very expensive, and unfortunately they just did not have the funds.

Not to be put off by a small thing like lack of funds, Sophie and Linzie, along with other local mothers, Fiona Twitchett, Emma Simons, and Jackie Forster decided that they would try to raise the money themselves and set a target of £10,000. Incredibly, they managed to raise this money reasonably

quickly, and they decided to continue to raise more money so that they could buy more suitable play equipment and a safer rubber mulch surface as well.

In order to raise money, they organised a wide range of amazing events for all ages within the local community. Their first event, a Family Fun Day, was extremely successful. They went on to organise many others, including a Zumba fundraiser and a Toddler disco party complete with a “Shenley’s Got Talent” competition. Hertsmere’s mayor, Pete Rutledge, even volunteered as a judge for the event and was very supportive of the women and the project throughout. Thanks to all their amazing fundraising efforts, they managed to raise over £27,500, which is a very impressive amount.

The women were all overwhelmed by the support from local estate agents Shenley Estates, who sponsored many of the events, to larger organisations such as The Arsenal Foundation and Tesco Bags of Help initiative. All helped them to reach their goal.

Linzie explains, “The support from the community and local businesses has been amazing. We really could not have done this without their help, and we really appreciate everyone that has been involved in this project.”

After months of hard work and anticipation, the Shenley Park Toddler Area was officially opened on 29 April of this year. Pete Rutledge was there to cut the ribbon along with local MP Oliver Dowden, who were both really impressed at how much the group had achieved.

There were also some familiar faces `at the proceedings for the younger ones in the shape of Anna from Frozen and Peppa Pig. Shenley Park Toddler Area, which is situated behind the current play area, near to Shenley Tea Rooms/Orchard cafe, is now a safe, secure and fun environment for young children and babies to play in and

Sophie Burnham-Miller with Hertsmere Mayor, Pete Rutledge

From left to right: Linzie Barr, Sophie Burnham-Miller, Emma Simons, Fiona Twitchett and Jackie Forster

enjoy. A plaque on the gate of the play area acknowledges the ladies’ efforts, and it reads “This Park was initiated by local mums and has been donated to the Shenley Park Trust.”

It was very much a group effort with all five women using their own skills and experience to help in different areas of the fundraising and planning. They have now become great friends, often meeting up socially, and are already planning Phase 2 of the project. These determined mothers are planning

to purchase special mother and baby swings and floor-level inclusive roundabouts for buggies and wheelchairs, so that even more young children and parents can enjoy the playing in this park.

If this has inspired you, and you would like to know more about this worthy cause, please contact Linzie Barr on 07956 857 589 or join their Facebook group Shenley Park Toddler Area Project www.facebook.com/ groups/855049127938773/

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Mums enjoy the park with their kids

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4 NEWS

24 MAY 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

UKIP candidate tweets the “Nazi Jews”

BY JAMES MARLOW

UKIP parliamentary candidate Paddy Singh who is standing for the Wiltshire North constituency has been criticised by the party over a series of shocking tweets dating back to 2014 in which he made repeated reference to the “Nazi Jews.”

In one message, he wrote “At times I ask myself were the Nazis right in herding the Jews into concentration camps.”

The former cavalry officer also posted a message saying: “It won’t be long before the Chinese start eating human meat. It may be a super power, but they are like animals.”

He described Israelis as “basically Nazis in mentality” and said there was no hope of a Middle East ceasefire “with the Nazi Jews like wild dogs on the rampage.”

Last year, he tweeted a link to an article about the murder of a Pakistani politician with the comment: “Is Pakistan a country inhabited by humans or animals?”

UKIP is no longer endorsing Singh, but he will still be listed as a party candidate on the ballot paper for Wiltshire North in the General Election on 8 June.

Anti-racism campaigners have highlighted the tweets, which have been called “totally unacceptable” by party leader Paul Nuttall.

A UKIP spokesman said: “As soon as these social media comments came to our attention, we suspended him from his membership of the party and we have removed our endorsement of him as candidate.”

But he remains a UKIP candidate.

Speaking from India, Captain Singh denied being a racist but accepted that some of his comments had “gone too far.”

He said: “I have never been anti-anyone and I have nothing against Israeli people. I would say I stick up for the underdog and I criticise the governments.”

He added, “Those tweets go back several years, when I had nothing to do with UKIP. I was commenting on articles that came out in the media. It was on the spur of the moment and it was my fault for being that spontaneous.”

Mr Nuttall said: “It looks as if what he’s said on Twitter is totally unacceptable, and as a party we’ve done something about it.”

The appalling anti-Semitic tweets were discovered on the Twitter account he operates for his travel agency Hindoostan Tours, written between 2014 and 2015.

They included “No hope of a ceasefire with the Nazi Jews like wild dogs on the rampage” on 30

July 2014.

“The Israelis are basically Nazis in mentality - the survivors of the tragic Holocaust learnt from their captors” was written on 20 July 2014. And on 1 August 2014, Singh wrote, “Israel pulled out in 2005 but the Gaza is still in a viselike grip. But Nazi Jews provoke Hamas to violence so as to ethnically cleanse them.”

Chairman of the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism, Gideon Falter, said, “It beggars belief that someone with such repulsive views has been selected to stand for Parliament. UKIP must expel Captain Singh from the party immediately and explain how he became a candidate in the first place.”

Lib Dems would support Labour made slight tweaks to manifesto to condemn Palestinian Palestinian state rockets on Israel Despite making some fine changes after Labour’s manifesto was leaked, the party commits to immediately recognising a state of Palestine which they say will encourage Palestinian terrorists to end rocket attacks on Israeli civilians.

A leaked version of the document last week took an anti-Israel approach to the conflict, focusing on Israeli reprisal actions but making no mention of Palestinian terrorism, incitement or international actions being taken in the international community.

A Labour Friends of Israel spokesperson said in the leaked

manifesto “much was made of a humanitarian crisis” and Israel was the only side being blamed for no final peace agreement being agreed.

She added, “At least the actual manifesto shows more balance, with an acceptance that rocket attacks and stabbings in Israel are to be condemned.” But the recognition of a Palestinian Arab State without the Palestinian leadership sitting down with an elected Israeli government and negotiating a settlement is not much of balance.

The manifesto also calls upon Israel to end the blockade, end the occupation and stop the

settlements.

Elsewhere the Labour manifesto says it is a party of “equality” that seeks to build a society “free from all forms of racism, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia,” and it added, “We should all be deeply troubled by the rise in racially aggravated attacks and race hate crime this year.”

The Labour document also noted that anti-Semitic incidents were on the rise and said, “We are committed to combating this trend with adequate resources and firm political will.”

In a reference to the allegations of anti-Semitism within the party and the subsequent Chakrabarti inquiry into Jewish hatred in Labour, the document says, “Commissioning a report on our own party was an unprecedented step in British politics, demonstrating a commitment to tackling prejudice wherever it is found.”

Labour also pledges to recognise the efforts of Jewish soldiers who fought in the First World War as well as honouring Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims who fought for Britain.

The leaked document failed to recognize the commitment “Jewish” soldiers made during the First World War.

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The Liberal Democrats have stressed their commitment to “a negotiated peace settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” leading to a two-state solution.

At the launch of their general election manifesto, Tim Farron’s party also condemned “Hamas’ rocket attacks and other targeting of Israeli civilians,” while criticising what is described as “disproportionate force used by all sides.”

The manifesto also condemns Israel’s settlement policy, saying

expansion “undermines the possibility of a two-state solution.”

The Lib Dem document also suggests that the recognition of an independent Palestinian state will “help” prospects for a two-state solution. The party would support such a move “as and when” it would enhance the chances of peace.

The party said it would campaign against anti-Semitism and other hate crimes.

Liberal Democrats leader, Tim Farron

24 MAY 2017

ISRAEL NEWS 7

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

NEWS IN ISRAEL BY JAMES J. MARLOW

FOLLOW JAMES AT TWITTER: @JAMES_J_MARLOW

Rouhani re-elected in Iranian Presidential election The Iranian people have re-elected Hassan Rouhani in a society that only allows democracy to bloom for a few days every four years.

Rouhani’s rival was the ultra-conservative hard-line judge Ebrahim Raisi, who threatened to derail the nuclear deal with the United States and would have isolated Iran even more both at home and abroad.

The mild-mannered Rouhani secured 57 percent of the vote in last Friday’s election, compared to 38 percent for Raisi, according to figures cited by the Interior Ministry.

However, the conservative hardliner still wields considerable sway with the unelected supreme leader Ali Khamenei, who holds the ultimate power. The scale of Rouhani’s victory gives the pro-reform

camp a strong mandate to seek the sort of change that hardliners have managed to thwart for years. But the last two decades of presidential elections have been short days of euphoria, followed by long years of disillusionment.

Rouhani’s victory faces the same restrictions that prevented him from delivering substantial social change in his first term. The supreme leader has veto power over all policies and complete control of the security forces. Rouhani has been unable to secure the release of reformist leaders from house arrest, and the media are barred from publishing the words or images of his reformist predecessor Khatami.

As expected, the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) - the powerful

Gazan woman charged with smuggling explosives as cancer medicine Prosecutors charged a Palestinian woman with attempting to smuggle explosives into Israel from Gaza by taking advantage of a humanitarian entry permit issued for her sister to seek cancer treatment.

The indictment filed this week at the Beersheba Magistrate’s Court alleges that Ibtisam Musa, 59, was enlisted by the Hamas terror group to smuggle tubes, labelled for medication, into the country, one of which was filled with nitro-glycerine.

A Hamas operative told Musa that the explosives were meant for an Israeli-Arab woman known as “Umm Shadi Hosni”, and were to be used in terror attacks in Israel. Prosecutors do not know the identities of either the Hamas operative or Umm Shadi Hosni, according to the Haaretz daily, but they requested that Musa be held in custody for the duration of her trial.

Musa was arrested on 19 April along with her sister at the Erez Crossing to Israel when the explosives were found during a security check and were disposed of by police sappers. Both Musa and her sister were then detained for questioning by the Shin Bet.

While Israel tightly controls its crossings in and out of Gaza as part of a security blockade, it allows tens of thousands of Palestinians to leave the Strip to seek medical treatment in Israel, the West Bank and Jordan each year.

In March, Deputy Defence Minister Eli Ben Dahan claimed that Hamas was using Gazan cancer victims as mules to smuggle money and gold into Israel to finance terror operations.

The claim came in response to a report that found a sharp drop in the number of cancer patients given permits to cross into Israel.

Tubes labelled for medicine actually contained nitro-glycerine

security force which controls a vast industrial empire in Iran, had thrown their support behind Raisi to safeguard its interests. Raisi is a protégé of Khamenei, and because he has united the conservative faction, he has been tipped in the Iranian media as a potential successor for the 77-year-old supreme leader, who has been in power since 1989.

His defeat leaves the conservatives without an obvious flag bearer. Rouhani’s win is likely to safeguard the nuclear agreement, which his government reached with global powers in 2015, under which most international sanctions have been lifted in return for Iran curbing its nuclear program.

But the Trump arrival in Saudi Arabia last Saturday, his first stop

President Hassan Rouhani

as president, met with pressure to turn his back on the nuclear deal.

The Saudis are Iran’s biggest enemies in the region, and they pushed Trump hard to reconsider the agreement. In the president’s

speech, Donald Trump cited that Iran is the single largest state sponsor of terrorism.

Israeli shoots Palestinian dead as rioters attack his car A Palestinian man was killed this week after an Israeli settler opened fire on a group of Palestinian rioters who were hurling rocks and stones at passing vehicles near the town of Huwara in the West Bank.

It was reported that around 200 Palestinian Arabs participated in the protest, which turned into a riot with blocked roads and rocks being thrown at passing Israeli vehicles. An Israeli settler believed his life was in mortal danger and opened fire at the rioters, killing one and injuring a news photographer.

The unnamed Israeli shooter was taken for questioning shortly after the incident. He claimed that he did not fire directly at the group of rioters, but rather into the air.

He later said, “I saw death staring at me.”

His wife, who was sitting in the passenger seat next to him, said the mob encircled their vehicle and attempted to drag her husband from the car to lynch him.

The shooter was described by friends as a father of eight from the settlement of Itamar. He was returning from a shopping trip when he came across a Palestinian ambulance that was blocking his path. A man dressed in medical uniform apparently exited the

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The incident happened after Palestinian rioters hurled rocks and stones at passing vehicles

ambulance and started kicking their door. According to the shooter, a mob then encircled his car and started pelting it with rocks.

Fearing for his life, the settler loaded a gun and fired shots in the air. He said that if he had not fired, he would have been lynched. The Palestinian health services stated that two people were wounded during the shooting, which was confirmed by the IDF shortly thereafter. The first victim was identified as Moataz Hussein Taya, 23, from the village of Bita, who was critically wounded and succumbed to his wounds moments later.

The second victim was identified as an Associated Press photographer, Majdi Eshtiya, who

suffered moderate wounds after being shot in the arm. A security video of the incident shows the protest the settler came upon, which was in solidarity with Palestinian security prisoners jailed in Israel.

The video shows the settler’s car surrounded by people who are preventing him from moving. The Israeli car is then seen pushing forward, hitting some of the protesters blocking his path, as an ambulance drives onto the road, blocking it. It is at this point that the rioters begin kicking the car and throwing stones at it. The video does not, however, show the shooting. The IDF arrived shortly after the shooting.

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24 MAY 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Camp Simcha trio wrap up for fundraiser Three north London mums kept their fundraising skills under wraps to raise almost £700 for Camp Simcha this week.

Anita Rietti, Judy Silkoff and Sara Benbassat hosted a head scarf wrapping demonstration evening to raise money for the charity, which supported Anita after her daughter was born with

a life-threatening heart condition nearly five years ago.

Her daughter Batya defied the doctor’s predictions that she would probably not make it to full-term and, at best, be alive for a few minutes. Batya gave her parents 15 precious months with her.

Anita said: “Camp Simcha, which supports families with

seri-

ously From left to right: Anita Rietti, Judy Silkoff and Sara Benbassat

ill children, kicked into action 3 days after Batya was born. Their team of incredible staff and tireless volunteers would stay with Batya in hospital, giving us time to run back home and tend to our other children. Volunteer ‘Big Brothers’ or ‘Sisters’ also supported my other children, entertaining them and joining us at family retreat days, theatre trips and outings.

“I look back and I marvel how far as a family we have come, and I know that it was only with Camp Simcha by our side that we came through it.”

Last year Anita and her husband Benji joined a Camp Simcha fundraising challenge through the Grand Canyon.

Anita said that this year she was searching for another way to give back to the charity.

“I wanted to do something original but also something I felt comfortable organising. I came up

Mill Hill East Jewish community - Turning a dream into reality

Last weekend, over 200 people participated in Mill Hill East Jewish Community’s first spring Shabbaton, which included an enjoyable Friday night service and tasty dinner, with entertainment from comedienne Rachel Creeger. Shabbat morning saw an enlightened service followed by a scrumptious kiddush, joined by Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis.

The Shabbaton comes almost a year after founders Avi Gillis and Josh Kleiman, together with the United Synagogue, held an open meeting to discuss the potential of a community in the area. Since then the community has continued to grow, holding exciting events such as their Winter Wonderland.

Talking about the success of the event, Avi Gillis said: “It was a fantastic Shabbat morning and wonderful to see so many people attend. From start to finish, the weekend was superbly organised and everyone came together to show real teamwork in order to hold such an impressive weekend. The committee and I would like to thank everyone that made this happen and for everyone’s continued

support.”

Reflecting on the success of the community in its inaugural year, Josh Kleiman commented: “We have received an overwhelming response from the community during the past year. It’s the people that make a community, and we could never have envisioned that our dream would turn into a wonderful reality with such amazing people.”

The event was held at the Canada Villa youth centre run by Barnet Council, which has shown continued support and are eager to partner with this grassroots, cross-communal venture.

Mill Hill East will follow the success of this event with a number of exciting events over the next couple of months, including a Shavuot Cheesecake Masterclass with renowned Italian chef Silvia Nacamulli, a talk from leading educator Rabbi Dr Rafi Zarum entitled “Shaken & Stirred: A Jewish reading of James Bond” on Sunday 18 June, as well as a pring Supper Quiz on Sunday 18 July.

Anita (left) and Sara (right) with Sara’s daughter Tami (left) and Anita’s daughter Avigayil (right)

with the idea of hosting an evening for a targeted audience of women, showing them how to wrap head scarves; and then my friends Judy and Sara helped me make it a reality.

“We had about 50 women, with a buffet cocktails, cupcakes and a raffle – all in a very relaxed atmosphere with Judy demonstrating different ways to wrap scarves around their hair. There was a big selection of colourful scarves so that ladies could have a go themselves after.

“It was a lovely evening, where guests had fun and also learnt a

bit more about the charity which did so much for my family,” says Anita.

“Camp Simcha brought a sense of calm to our otherwise beautiful, yet volatile journey; gently offering what we needed when we ourselves couldn’t even think of what that was. That is the simple reason why my family and I continue to try to give something back to the charity that rekindled the light when it went out for us, to help ensure they can do the same for other families.”

Stanmore join for a young families weekend Stanmore Synagogue enjoyed an unforgettable Young Families weekend away at Daventry Court Hotel.

The weekend included educational sessions and discussions.

Topics included parenting, marriage, body and soul, anger, giving and taking, masculinity and femininity, and Jewish values versus the western world.

Children’s activities included themed games, a parent-child football game, and arts ‘n’ crafts on Sunday morning.

Parents were able to utilise a crèche, soft toy play for the toddlers and hall babysitting at night.

Rabbi Daniel Fine, Rabbi Avrohom Zeidman and Mirele Mordecai led the event.

“When nearly all your feedback is ten out of ten, and one 12, you know it was special,” enthused Stanmore assistant minister,

Enjoying the weekend with Rabbi Fine (right)

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Rabbi Fine.

“We wanted to offer families a meaningful and stimulating weekend together with a great time for their kids.

“The food was great and there was a lovely social atmosphere.”

He added, “The tailored services were lively.

“Many parents are unable go into a main Shabbat service because they go to toddlers and young children services with their children, so to hear Chazan Jonny Turgel lead Mussaf was fabulous.

“It was important to make a huge deal of our primary school families.

“They are an amazing group at an age when they are often rediscovering their idealism through their children. We see them as an integral part of the shul’s future.”

24 MAY 2017

COMMUNITY 15

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

A walk for a good cause Hundreds of children and adults participated in the Hospital Kosher Meal Service (HKMS) Walk last Sunday.

Many schools encouraged their pupils to take part in the 20-km walk. The age range was from 9 to 74.

Leah Levi, 9, a pupil at Bnos Beis Yaacov school, came home extremely refreshed and said, “I’m definitely doing it next year.” She hopes that many other children her age will be inspired to do the walk next year too.

The Hospital Kosher Meals Service was established in 1968 to provide kosher food for patients in hospitals and other institutions in the Greater London area.

The charity relies on financial support from the Jewish community to continue their service. They are very grateful to everyone who participated and raised funds and to all the sponsors.

Promoting Israel’s tourism New Israel Tourist Office London chief Sharon Bershadsky held a spectacular travel trade event at One Whitehall Place last week to promote its “Land of Creation” 2017 summer programme. Nearly 80 travel agents and producers, plus 15 of Israel’s holiday operators heard her announce record UK visitors for last year and a £4 million promotional budget this time around.

Sharon Bershadsky Attending from Jewish new Ramon Eilat Airport is Weekly was Malcolm Ginsberg who from next week expected to open next March will be writing a fortnightly with Monarch the lead British travel news column for the airline. newspaper. She said that the

Pupils from Bnos Beis Yaacov Primary School on the walk

Hasmo hold HOTPLATE OTPLATE inspiring BBQ Rain did not stop play at Hasmonean’s Lag B’Omer celebratory barbeque. At both schools the fires were stoked, the burgers sizzled and the spirit soared! A special lunch, organised by the informal educators at each school, was served and enjoyed by all.

On Friday 12 May, Year 13 experienced a Yom Limmud, which proved to be a moving and thought-provoking event.

They took time to reflect on their chaburah (study) groups, friendships and future lives, thinking about what messages they can take forward as they approach the end of their time at Hasmonean.

Rabbi Farhi asked, “What shall I leave you with?” As the girls contemplated life after Hasmonean, he related this to the questions that we are asked at the end of our life when our soul ascends to Shamayim (Heaven): Did you set time for Torah

learning? Did you make your friend your ruler?

Did you act honestly in business? He expounded on these ideas and made the girls think about what their priorities would be if they were given one more day to live. This elicited a range of intriguing responses.

Rabbi David from Chazak focused on the reasons why we should do mitzvot. Is it for Hashem or for us? He took the example of Korbanot (offerings) and asked whether we are commanded in the mitzvah because a sacrifice is “nice” for Hashem. Rather, he contended, when we do a mitzvah it is a means of bringing us closer to Hashem, which makes us better people. Therefore, mitzvot are a vehicle for improving ourselves and strengthening our relationship with Hashem.

During the Chaburah groups, the girls had an opportunity to reflect on

their experiences of Jewish learning at Hasmonean. During the sessions, the students were given a quote from a Jewish text which the teacher felt positively reflected something of their personality and encapsulated their attitude to learning. They were left to think about how they could bring these positive attributes into their next stage of life. This was an inspiring moment and a really helpful focal point, as they look past the imminent exams to the long summer break…

Hasmonean’s Year 9 girls had a taste of Italy when Mrs Susan Kikoler described her love of Italy and discussed the varied history of its diverse Jewish communities, both ancient and modern. Her clear use of slides and passionate enthusiasm for her subject showed the girls that you can create a career out of a passion.

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16 COMMUNITY

24 MAY 2017

Raleigh Close: building the future

BY DAVID SAFFER

Hendon United Synagogue – known globally as Raleigh Close - is set to embark on a £6m regeneration venture.

The Hendon Community Campus will ensure the shul remains a flagship of the United Synagogue.

The 21st century facility takes on

coffee shop.

The building will be accessible, space-efficient and environmentally friendly.

“We want to be a community campus because we are not just a shul or community centre, but a place where people can come every day 24/7 if they wish,” said Marc Meyer, Hendon US chairman.

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The new look frontier

board Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis’ vision to transform shuls from solely being houses of prayer into a place of religious, social and cultural engagement.

New facilities include flexible prayer and meeting spaces, stateof-the-art conference resources, a banqueting suite, dedicated areas for youth and children (including a nursery), a succah and a

“We are fundraising and £4m has 15 been identified, so we have a further £2m to raise.

“Pre-planning has been done on what we wish to achieve, so once the funds are identified we will go into full project mode.”

10/11/2016 22:37

Raleigh Close is one of the largest Jewish communities in the United Kingdom.

Founded in 1928, the first site of the synagogue was on Brent Street.

The first purpose-built shul was sold in 1940 to Hendon Adath Synagogue, which still occupies the former site.

A derelict site was located at Raleigh Close, and the present synagogue was consecrated on 15th September 1935 at a cost of £20,000 to erect.

A beacon of London Jewry, membership stood at 70 in 1928.

Today there are over 1,200 members, with hundreds of people of all ages attending Shabbat morning services.

The shul is a hive of activity throughout the week, which will be enhanced on completion of its transformation project.

Rev. H.I. Alexander, Rev. Leslie Hardman and Rabbi Sidney Silberg served as senior ministers prior to the appointment of Rabbi Mordechai Ginsbury in 1999.

Rev. David Koussevitsky, Rev. Moshe Korn and Rev. (now Rabbi) Shmuel Neuman have been distinguished chazanim.

Rabbi Leo Dee was the shul’s first assistant rabbi, tasked in 2008 to enhance the provision of educational and social events, particularly for young families, singles, students and teenagers.

Rabbi Jonathan Hughes, and most recently Rabbi Yisroel Binstock, have continued this work.

Rabbi Ginsbury was brought up in South London where his father, Rabbi Philip Gins-

Hendon United Synagogue

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Rabbi Ginsbury lights the menorah with the youth

bury, served as a United Synagogue minister.

Educated at Hasmonean Secondary School, he studied at yeshivah in Israel where he attained semichah in 1982.

“We were a very communally orientated family for the community as a whole,” Rabbi Ginsbury recalled.

“I was always interested in the rabbinate and had a passion for Jewish learning, Jewish life and Israel, which drives most community rabbanim to do what they do.

“Having my father as a rabbi was great preparation, and of course, I was able to ask him for advice on various situations.”

After Rabbi Ginsbury married his wife, Judy, in 1982, he continued post-rabbinic studies in Gateshead and then Liverpool, where he gained experience at Childwell Synagogue.

He assumed his first pulpit as minister of Prestwich Hebrew Congregation in 1985.

“Taking up the post at the age of 25, however much you have grown up in the rabbinate and then prepared, you cannot imagine how different it actually is,” he recalled.

“When you take responsibility for a community, it is completely different to anything you have experienced, but I was fortunate to have a very supportive community and spent many happy years in Manchester.”

Since arriving at Raleigh Close, Rabbi and Rebbetzen Ginsbury have heralded numerous initiatives to benefit the community, including the Hendon CARES welfare organisation, the Kashrut Assurance Scheme, the Minyanim Forum, Tefillin breakfast for pre- and postbar mitzvah boys, and bat mitzvah provision.

Rabbi Ginsbury serves as principal of Hasmonean Primary School and is also director of P’eir, the United Synagogue’s in-house training, support and networking facility for rabbinic couples.

P’eir was established during Rabbi Ginsbury’s term of office as chairman of the Rabbinical Council of the United Synagogue, and he was formally appointed as professional director in 2009.

Rebbetzen Ginsbury has facilitated many introductions through the United Synagogue Strike a Match (SAM) programme and is a key teacher of the shul’s Ladies SEED initiative.

Of great significance also has been their support for the recent completion and opening of the Central Hendon mivkah, “Mikvah

24 MAY 2017 Eishes Chayil.”

“Being only the fourth rabbi here at Hendon says a lot about the community,” he recalled.

“The Shabbat of my induction was one of those rare occasions when every one of our minyanim was together.

“I’ll always be grateful to have had my opportunity in Manchester, but this was a step up; and walking into shul thinking about the responsibilities I now had for this community was primarily exciting and challenging, but I felt ready.

“It was not an easy decision returning to London but the Hendon community had great challenges and opportunities.

“You only have to look at what we have achieved over the years with wonderful support from lay leaders. Our new mikvah, which opened two years ago, has been a tremendous facility, and we are currently raising funds for our regeneration project.”

On a Shabbat, Raleigh Close offers an early minyan, traditional main shul and alternative cross generational services, and a dynamic Na’aleh minyan for students by students, together with various youth services.

“The community has changed hugely and people are moving on from the idea of a singular, traditional main shul service; but you have to move with the times in terms of minyanim,” Rabbi

COMMUNITY 17 Ginsbury explained.

“There are hundreds of people at various services every Shabbat; and you have to be here to really experience it. You can feel the vibrancy and vitality.”

He added, “Some of our more longstanding members tell me the level of programming and activities that we are embracing today is phenomenal.

“Much of the credit goes to Rabbi Binstock together with his wife, Leanne, and my wife, Judy, who do a huge amount of work in these areas alongside our programming team.”

Looking ahead to future challenges, Rabbi Ginsbury noted, “I only see opportunities to consolidate what we have in terms of the multiplex nature of the community.

“There is always a struggle between encouraging the individual strengths of constituent parts of the community and building a sense of an all-embracing community.

“That will continue to be a big challenge but also an ongoing opportunity.”

In terms of how programmes have developed, Rabbi Ginsbury commented, “When I first came to the shul, there were many groups run by older members of the community but no succession planning.

“These groups were not carried forward and interest groups were different, but new ones have arisen such as our book club and monthly

Members join together for a discussion

tea parties.

“Some programmes are cultural, learning or social but we must cater for all members.

“We must also attract the younger end of our community, and that is where Rabbi Binstock together with his wife make a huge difference in this area.”

When it comes to giving inspiring sermons to his community, Rabbi Ginsbury has years of experience.

“Every rabbi is different, but I never sit down and think; now I’ll write my sermon but my general rule is that only the inspired can inspire,” he explained.

“Anything that I have a particular passion for I may build a sermon around, but one continually

reads and connects with people and situations that offer inspiration.

“There are also certain moments in the year such as the festivals, or there are topical events that it is natural to speak about.

“But having said that, I’m always thinking about topics connected to the community.”

Rabbi Binstock and his wife, Leanne, have played a key role at the shul since 2015.

“The fact that our shul is designed to be a friendly place helps enormously,” he said.

“There are different Shabbat morning services; if you wish to, daven early then spend time with your children, or have a later start and more informal davening with your children.

A CAMPUS FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY

Model of the new campus 10

HCC Brochuer design A4.indd 10

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10/11/2016 22:37

“The alternative minyan is a place where children are made to feel welcome more than traditionally they might have in a ‘cathedral’ style minyan.

“We place a lot of emphasis on childrens services and syncing programming to encourage young families to feel at home, and the shul is designed around them.

“Having a young family, I often think when planning activities, will this work for my family if I wasn’t the rabbi? If not, we rethink it.”

So how does a modern day shul attract families with social media now at the fore?

“Many people have seen the rise of social media as a challenge as it breaks away from the need to have a focal point of a synagogue as a place of connection,” Rabbi Binstock explained. “But using it effectively it can assist in bringing people together.

“There was a time when it was very difficult, other that Shabbat, to communicate with 100 members of the community, but now the alternative minyan has a WhatsApp broadcast list, so I can communicate through a medium which works for them.

“Emails are not always the most personal form of communication, but a WhatsApp message is seen to offer a personal touch so you can use social media to really connect.

“Occasionally after Shabbat, I’ll send a ‘sermon in a sentence’ message, although the most common reply is, if you can say it in a sentence why not say it in shul!”

Raleigh Close is taking up the challenges of today head on to serve present and future congregants.

It will not shirk issues, and that has to be the central theme of any modern-day shul.

Chief Rabbi Mirvis and the United Synagogue have a vision for the future. Raleigh Close has taken that on board and is running with it.

24 MAY 2017

SPORTS 27

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

S PORTS

ONE NATION... ...MANY TEAMS

W EEKLY

HMH on fire to win the double

BY DAVID SAFFER

HMH Fire U13 clinched the double with a 3-1 victory against Whetstone Wanderers Leopards in the Watford Friendly League Spring Plate.

Nathan Gellman (2) and Saul Norton struck the glory goals in a scintillating performance.

“The boys have been magnificent all season,” said team manager Barry Skolnick. “Everyone has played a part and deserves this success.”

The Blues had already sealed the Watford Friendly League U13 Yellow Division title and took the match to Whetstone in the final.

Playmaker Louis Peleg opened Whetstone up with a defence splitting ball for striker Gellman to force Leopards keeper into a fine save in the opening minute of action.

The same players combined in a carbon-copy move five minutes later, and this time Gellman powerfully fired home for a deserved lead.

HMH dominated play through midfielders, and it was no surprise when Peleg’s 30-yard free kick found Gellman unmarked to net his second of the game and 18th of the season on 20 minutes Whetstone looked for a way back into the match, but the HMH defence marshalled by Benji Selig and keeper Bradley Kent stood firm.

The league’s leading goal-scorer Saul Norton went close on several occasions after half time.

And the pressure paid off when Norton fired home from 15 yards with 20 minutes remaining.

The youngster’s strike was his 35th goal of the season.

Whetstone looked for a

HMH celebrating their success

consolation and forced Kent into two reflex saves before netting a consolation goal.

Reuben Gordon headed a Gellman corner inches wide late on but the win was already sealed.

HMH double winning squad: Jess Assor, Nathan Gellman, Reuben Gordon, Sacha Grodzinski, Jack Hearder, Aminoan Kaplan, Ori Kaplinsky, Bradley Kent, Noam

Lange, Sasha Lask, David Noik, Saul Norton, Louis Peleg, Gavriel Sacks, Max Salmon, Jake Shindler, Benji Selig, Noah Skolnick, Oli Weiner.

Professional Sports coverage on pages 28 & 29

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

28 SPORTS

24 MAY 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

PREMIER LEAGUE BY JEREMY BITTON

Terry bids emotional farewell The Blues’ outgoing captain, John Terry, ended his illustrious Chelsea career with his final appearance at Stamford Bridge against an already relegated Sunderland side, capping it all off with an emotional speech to the fans after lifting his fifth Premier League trophy.

The 36-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, took to the pitch to say goodbye following Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Sunderland, which secured a record-breaking 30th Premier League victory in a season.

Terry led Chelsea out on his 717th club appearance and 580th as captain to a guard of honour from Sunderland players and a vast tribute from the Shed End of Stamford Bridge before being substituted for Gary Cahill in the 26th minute, passing the armband on to his vice-captain.

Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford obligingly kicked the ball out to allow for Terry’s sendoff – done to coincide with his shirt number – and visiting boss David Moyes afterwards admitted his players were aware of the plan.

The gesture sparked debate over the manner of his orchestrated early exit, but Press Association reported that the Premier League

is relaxed about the substitution, despite the chance that news of the premeditated move could have alerted gamblers to a situation to exploit.

However, there is no suggestion that the move was anything other than an attempt by Chelsea to give their long-serving captain a farewell to remember.

Both Terry and Cahill lifted the trophy together before Terry addressed the crowd.

“This is one of the most difficult days of my life,” he said, pausing to try to control his emotions.

“I’ve been very fortunate to work with some unbelievable players and managers in my career. I’m so grateful to every single one of you.

Thank you.

“We all have to thank this man up here as well, Mr Roman Abramovich. I’d personally like to thank him. He’s put an awful lot of money into this club, but this man cares about this football club, from the U8s to the first-team.

“He gives us the opportunity.

On behalf of myself, the players and the supporters, thank you very much.

“I’d like to thank my wife and my kids. The support you’ve given me is amazing. Thank you, I love

you.

“Lastly, you guys the fans, the best supporters in the world without a shadow of a doubt. You’ve given me everything from the age of 17 when I first started out. You picked me up when I was down, sung my name when I’ve had bad days and disappointed you as well.

“Thank you will never ever be enough, but I’ll tell you what: I’ll be back here one day. I’m going to be supporting the players and the club from the bottom of my heart.

Thank you so much, I love you all.”

Explaining his early substitution to Sky Sports after the match, Terry added: “[Coming off after] 26 minutes wasn’t a plan, but I negotiated with the manager. It’s more important that the players get sharp for the cup final.

“I’m going to have a few weeks off before deciding anything [about the future]. Every ex-player says play as long as you can; it is great advice. I want to play, that is why I have called it a day at Chelsea – I didn’t want to stand in the way.

“There are big characters in changing room. Cahill stepped in and took the armband, [David] Luiz is good as well, he’s matured

‘Mr Chelsea’

since come back. Cesc is a big character. I’m looking to them three to pull the dressing room on.”

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte afterwards said: “It was very important to find the right solution to celebrate a great champion, a great

legend for this club. He deserved to start the game and to have a substitution after 26 minutes.

“He deserved this celebration, because he wrote Chelsea’s history, and I wish for him and for his family the best in the future.”

Barca reportedly closing in on new boss Widespread reports surfacing from Goal.com claim La Liga runners-up Barcelona are close to agreeing a deal to replace outgoing head coach Luis Enrique in the managerial hot seat at the Camp Nou. According to El Correo, Athletic Bilbao tactician Ernesto Valverde has put pen to paper on a lucrative two-year deal, replacing Enrique from 29 May onwards.

The Spanish publication claims that the deal was supposedly finalized on Sunday morning, allowing Valverde to “fulfil one of his dreams after two previously-failed attempts.”

Star forward Lionel Messi is said to be backing the appointment

of Valverde with some vigor as the 53-year-old Spanish coach plied his trade for the Catalan giants in his 12-year stint at the Camp Nou. He was a member of Johann Cruyff’s famous ‘dream team’ side and won a Copa Del Rey and a European Cup Winners’ Cup during his time at the Nou Camp.

Valverde has had a fair amount of success during his time at Bilbao, having led his team to Champions League qualification in his first season in 2013, as well as a Copa Del Rey triumph in 2015.

Bilbao boss, Valverde, will be looking to challenge Real Madrid next season should he be confirmed as Enrique’s replacement, after Zidane’s Los Blancos secured

the La Liga title with a convincing win over Malaga.

Barcelona on the other hand had a much more turbulent time against Eibar, going 2-0 down, before clinching a dramatic late victory with Lionel Messi’s winning spot kick – with Barca’s 3-2 victory doing little to discourage Madrid’s title clinching performance against Malaga at the La Rosaleda.

Athletic Vilbao boss; Ernesto Valverde

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

30 KIDS

24 MAY 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Bamidbar This week we move on to the third book out of five in the Torah. This week’s Parshah is Bamidbar, which translates as “In the desert.”

The Jewish people camped and travelled in the desert. When they would travel, they would take apart the Mishkan (Tabernacle – a portable sanctuary), carry it to wherever the next campsite was, and set it up again.

Hashem tells Moshe to take a census – a count – of all the people that can be part of the army, which means all men between the ages of 20 and 60.

Each of the twelve tribes had a leader (called in Hebrew a “nasi”). They helped Moshe to take the census.

Shavuot

W

Next Tuesday night is Shavuot! Thousands of years ago the Jewish nation stood around Har Sinai (Mount Sinai) and heard Hashem’s voice.

Hashem proclaimed the 10 Commandments and asked us if we wanted to keep His Torah. The Jewish nation said “Naaseh V’Nishmah” – “We shall do and we shall learn.”

On Shavuot it’s a custom to eat dairy food. Why? To find out turn to the youth pages on Page 34.

£2

0

Across 2 The name of the next festival we celebrate 6 We eat lots of this dessert on Shavuot Down 1 We decorate our home with these for Shavuot 3 We received it from Hashem 4 The Jewish people’s leader 5 The name of the mountain on which we received the Torah Visit the kids section of our website and upload a picture of your completed crossword. Send it in by 3pm on Monday 27th March.

Arts and Crafts It’s a beautiful custom to have lots of flowers and plants around the synagogue and home during Shavuot to remind us of the flowers on Har Sinai when we received the 10 Commandments.

You will need: • An assortment of colourful paper cupcake holders • Buttons • Green pipe cleaners • A Stapler • Super glue

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

in

Depending on how thick you want the flower to be, take 6 to 10 cupcake holders and stack them together.

Take a pipe cleaner and put it in the middle of the stack.

Staple together the cupcake holders and pipe cleaner in the centre.

Repeat the above a few times with different coloured cupcake holders.

Carefully stick the buttons on top of the staple with super glue.

Arrange the flowers as you like. You can even put them in a small vase in the centre of the table.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

24 MAY 2017

KIDS 31

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

CUT OUT & KEEP

TO CREATE YOUR VERY OWN JEWISH WEEKLY RECIPE BOOK

No-Bake Cheesecake Cups Perfect for Shavuot, a sweet and easy dessert!

Ingredients:

• 1 packet of digestive or tea biscuits; plain, vanilla or chocolate depending on preference • 300g cream cheese • 150g icing sugar • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 450ml double cream • Washed, checked and chopped strawberries • Whipped cream (optional)

Method:

1. In a Ziplock bag crunch the biscuits into crumbs.

2. Poor the crumbs into cups, filling a ¼ of each cup.

3. Mix the cream cheese and icing sugar together until completely smooth.

4. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract 5. Whisk in the double cream.

6. Distribute the cheese mixture into cups, filling them ¾ full.

7. Layer the rest of the cup with strawberries.

8. Chill in the fridge, and just before serving decorate with whipped cream.

DAIRY

Did y u kn w?

People of Greece are the largest consumers of cheese worldwide

More than 2000 varieties of cheese are available around the world

Facts about dairy Cheddar cheese is the favourite cheese around the UK!

It’s a good source of calcium and vitamin D – so it’s good for your bones!

Research shows that eating cheese right after a meal or as a snack helps reduce tooth decay.

In 1856, French scientist Louis Pasteur discovered that heating liquids to high temperatures kills bacteria. This process is called pasteurisation, and it protects the purity and flavours of milk.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Mice don’t really like cheese – they prefer sweet and sugary food!

34 YOUTH

24 MAY 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Parshat Bamidbar In a Nutshell

This week we begin the third book of five in the Torah.

G-d tells Moshe to conduct a census in the desert. The census included all the men who could be part of an army who were between the age of 20 and 60.

The Leviim (Levites) were appointed to serve in the Mishkan (Sanctuary). They replaced the firstborns, who were disqualified when they

participated in the sin of the golden calf.

When the people left each encampment, the Levites dismantled and transported the Sanctuary, and reassembled it at the center of the next encampment.

They then erected their own tents around it.

Beyond the Levite circle, the twelve tribes camped in four groups of three tribes each. To the east

were Yehuda, Yissachar and Zevulun; to the south were Reuven, Shimon and Gad; to the west were Ephraim, Manasseh and Benjamin; and to the north were Dan, Asher and Naftali. This formation was kept also while traveling. Each tribe had its own nasi (prince or leader), and its own flag with its tribal color and emblem.

shavuot Next week we celebrate Shavuot, where we renew our acceptance of G-d’s gift – the Torah.

The word Shavuot means “weeks.” It marks the completion of the seven-week counting period between Pesach and Shavuot.

Our sages have compared Shavuot to a wedding between G-d and the Jewish people. Shavuot also means “oaths,” as G-d swore eternal devotion to us, and we in turn pledged everlasting loyalty to Him.

3 reasons we eat dairy on Shavuot 1 When the Jewish people received the Torah at Har Sinai it was Shabbat.

They learnt the laws of how to slaughter and prepare meat for eating. Until then, the Jews had not followed these laws; thus all the cooking utensils and meat was considered not kosher.

Therefore, because it was Shabbat and they couldn’t prepare anything, the only alternative was to eat dairy, which requires no advance preparation.

3 The gematria (numerical value) of the Hebrew word for dairy, “chalav,” is 40.

So too, Moshe spent 40 days on Har Sinai learning the Torah.

2 The Torah is compared to milk.

Just as milk sustains and nourishes a baby, so too the Torah provides all the “spiritual nourishment” necessary for the human soul.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

24 MAY 2017

YOUTH 35

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

News Bites A LAW IS BEING PASSED ON HOW TO SING THE CHINESE NATIONAL ANTHEM

SNAIL TO THE RESCUE A disease which affects millions of people a year is one step closer to being irradiated, thanks to the genome of a snail.

The snail is partially to blame for the spread of schistosomiasis, a deadly infection found in sub-tropical and tropical regions.

Over 100 researchers from around the world have decoded the snail’s genome, and have discovered that the snail’s biology may unlock the key to

stopping the spread of the disease. Dr Joanna Bridger, co-researcher on the study said: “Having the knowledge means we can progress at a much faster pace at understanding the disease, and reducing the number of people infected.”

THE SECRET LIFE OF A KING It’s not all glitz and glamour for monarchs, just take the King of Netherlands, Willem-Alexander as an example.

It was revealed this week that the monarch has been combining his royal duties with more adventurous ones. Willem told Dutch News that he has been secretly piloting KLM

passenger flights for 21 years.

The King flies twice a month, and uses the concentration fuelled “hobby” as an opportunity to relax from the pressure and tension of royal life.

So who knows, you may have been flown by the King of Netherlands.

You can’t sing the national anthem at weddings and funerals in China, it’s against the law. Another law is also being prepared that will set the tempo and speed of the national anthem and you may be punished if you don’t abide by this

speed. The new law states that you may be guilty of putting the anthem in a “damaging situation”.

This new law is being introduced after state media reported on recent “chaos” where people laughed as the song was

YOUNG HIGH-FLYER EARNS PHYSICS DEGREE AT 14 Earning a degree can be tough for any ordinary person, but Carson Huey-Yoy is far from ordinary. Carson recently became the youngest person to graduate from the Texas Christian University and did so with a degree in Physics - a subject

renowned for its difficulty.

His love for numbers started at a young age, when he told his mum that he wanted to do calculus at just 3 years old. His mum told press that he was comfortable from the get-go: “Even though he was 11, in a

AND ASK

AGONY AUNT MIA AND AGONY UNCLE JOEY

The Jewish Weekly’s Teen Agony Aunt and Agony Uncle are here to help with all your questions, problems and difficulties. Just write your letter to agonyaunt@thejewishweekly.com or agonyuncle@thejewishweekly.com Disclaimer: All letters that are published may be edited. All letters are kept confidential and names can be changed for confidentiality upon request.

classroom with 18-year-olds and so forth, I felt that he was safe and I sat right outside the classroom door the whole time ,so it wasn’t like I was scared or uncomfortable,”

Laura

it must be a little challenging sometimes.

What I would suggest is having two makeup bags, one bag that has expensive products inside and the other bag which has everything else. Let all your sisters know that you’re happy to share the makeup in the second bag with them; however, the bag with the expensive makeup is only for you, and you’re happy to let them use it for special occasions, e.g. if they have a bar mitzvah or a wedding to attend.

Get together with your sisters on a Sunday and go to Superdrug, where you can purchase cheaper products.

Ask your mum If she doesn’t mind giving you all a little bit of pocket money to add to your ‘sharing bag.’

I’m sure she will embrace the idea and be happy to help!

Dear Laura,

Happy sharing!

Wow, what fun it must be in your house, with so many girls to chat with. It must be a real laugh sometimes, but I totally understand your predicament and where you’re coming from.

Growing up I had one younger sister and she always wanted to use my makeup too, but being that you have so many younger sisters under you

Mia

Dear Mia,

KEEP CALM

played. So from now on, no giggling!

I’m 16 and the eldest of five girls in my family.

My younger sisters keep wanting to use all my makeup and it’s quite frustrating. I love all my sisters to bits, and I want to do the right thing, especially because I’m the eldest and a role model.

But I saved some of my baby-sitting money to buy some of the expensive makeup I have, and I don’t want it running out so quickly.

Any tips will be much appreciated!

Thanks,

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38 WOMEN

24 MAY 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

What she doesn’t know

BY MICAELA BLITZ

FICTION

PART 1 OF 2

Lucy was not looking forward to her birthday in a few weeks, and she was happy to keep it very low key, so that she could just forget about the big 4-0.

“I can’t believe I turn 40 in six weeks; where has the time gone? I feel like I’ve only just turned 30… what have I been doing with my life?” Lucy says to Julia, her best friend.

“Well you got married, had twins, got yourself an MA, and set up your own business. That’s not enough for you?” Julia replies, scanning the menu in front of her.

“Well I guess if you put it like that…but it just feels like the last decade has whizzed past, and it’s all going to get faster from here.…”

“Hey, 40 is not so bad. Look at me, I’m 42 now, and I have to say that I am having a great time - although I have to go to bed at about 10pm. But apart from that, it’s not so bad.”

“But you’ve been going to bed at 10pm, since your 20s, so no change there then…anyway, I guess we should order.” Lucy looks at the menu again.

A waitress appears at the side of the table and smiles. She hovers with her notepad with her pen poised, ready to take their order.

“Um, well I’m meant to be on a diet. I don’t want to be fat AND 40, so I guess I’ll have a grilled schnitzel and salad,” Lucy says, half talking to the waitress and Julia. She looks up from the menu and smiles at the waitress. “Thank you.”

“Well, I’ve been hanging out for a shawarma for about a week.” Julia says to Lucy. She turns to the waitress. “Can I have a shawarma laffa, with salad, and some chips.

Oh and a Diet Coke…”

“I hate to break it to you, but I don’t think a Diet Coke is gonna help with all that lot, do you?”

“Oh well, I’m going to the gym tomorrow, or at least I will think about going tomorrow…”

It was always so great to see Julia. We never got a chance to catch up as much as we both wanted to, but life seems to get in the way.

Plus she works such crazy hours sometimes, so it can be tricky to get time in our hectic diaries. When we do meet up, it’s like no time at all has passed, and we just pick up right where we left off. The perfect friendship.

My phone rings, interrupting Julia’s hilarious story about her recent job interview.

“Hello Lucy, how are you?”

“Hello Mum, I’m fine. Just out to dinner.”

“So you’re out for dinner then?”

“Yes Mum, where are you?”

“Oh I’m just at home, you know ‘chillaxing’ as Joshua and Jacob say, is that it?”

“Yes, Mother, very hip.”

“I had a missed call from your home phone.”

“It wasn’t me, I’m out with Julia.

Are you sure it was my house?”

“Well I thought so, maybe I was wrong. Silly me. Say hello to Julia for me. Is Daniel home alone?”

“Well if you call two kids, a cat and a pile of ironing, on his own, then yes he is. Are you ok Mum?” “Oh yes yes yes, I’m fine… just getting confused. Have a nice time.”

“Ok I’ll call you tomorrow… g’night.”

Lucy puts the phone down and turn back to Julia.

“Sorry about that, not quite sure what she was even phoning about… she said she was ‘chillaxing.’”

“Bless her, where does she even know such a word?”

“I think one of the boys must have said it to her when they were over there, but it sounds better when a 7-yearold-boy says it than when a 70-year-old woman does… anyway, sorry to interrupt your story.”

“Yes, anyway so I said goodbye to him and then ended up walking into his glass door. Face first…”

“Oh Jules, how do you manage to get yourself into these situations?”

“Just lucky I guess…”

Our drinks arrive, and our food follows soon afterwards. I look longingly at Jules’ laffa and chips as I eat my chicken and salad. I have major dinner envy, but I know I have to be strict.

“So what are you doing for your birthday? Anything planned?”

“Oh you know me, I don’t like to make a big deal out of things like birthdays, so we might just go away for the weekend. Maybe a spa or something.”

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“Has Daniel not organised anything fun for you then?”

“He’s not really a one for surprises, bless him. He likes to play it safe. He even checks with me before he buys me a gift in case I don’t like it!”

I push my salad around the plate and then grab one of Julia’s chips.

“So shoot me, it’s only one.”

“You are so funny…have some more, I can keep a secret!”

As the boys play and giggle in the front room, Daniel goes into the study and closes the door. He has managed to find a game that both children agreed to play, and he needs to make a phone call.

“Hello Sadie, it’s Daniel. Laura’s out at the moment, so I thought I would call you. I called you before, but I’m not sure if you heard it.

“Yes, yes, I saw a missed call, so I called Lucy. She’s out with Julia.”

“I know. Are you around tomorrow evening? I wanted to come over to talk about something without Lucy.”

“Of course, of course, but what will you tell Lucy?”

“Don’t worry, I’ll just tell her I am working late. See you at 7:30.

Oh, I’d better go, I think that the kids are calling…”

He opens the door and shouts out to the kids.

“Hey kids, who wants a hot chocolate before bedtime?”

“Yaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyy,” they say in unison. One of the only things that they had agreed on the whole evening. Daniel didn’t mind Lucy going out and seeing friends, but he was always grateful when she came back. He looks at his watch. She said she would try to be back by 9:30. “Only another hour and a half to go,” he says to himself.

“Hey love, I’m home… everything ok?” Lucy calls out as she comes in the front door.

“Yes, all ok thanks. They both went to bed without too much of a fight. Did you have a nice evening?

How’s Julia?” Daniel is in the living room reading the paper, surrounded by comics, toys and general 7-year-old boy mess.

“Julia’s great. She always cracks me up. Not sure how she gets herself into some situations, but she should write a book I think!”

“No one would believe her…”

“Yes, you’re probably right. My mum called whilst I was out. She was a bit strange on the phone…”

“Nothing new there then. Do you want a drink? Was about to make myself a cup of coffee.”

“Maybe a peppermint tea. I don’t know how you can drink coffee so late at night.”

“Strong constitution.”

Daniel walks to the kitchen and fills the kettle. His phone beeps incoming text message.

“Oh darling,” Daniel shouts from the kitchen. “I might have to work late tomorrow, ok? So don’t wait for me for dinner or anything. I’ll probably grab something on the way home, ok?”

“Yeah fine”, Lucy says, kicking off her shoes and flicking through one of the children’s comic books left on the floor. “Don’t overdo it though. You have been working late quite a bit over the past few weeks. They really should take on more staff rather than running the ones they have into the ground.”

“Don’t worry, I won’t….” Daniel smiles to himself and looks at the phone.

The message reads, “Our secret is safe...”

TO BE CONTINUED ...

24 MAY 2017

WOMEN 39

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

EMMA FISHMAN - INTERIOR STYLIST Having completed degrees in furniture design and architecture, Emma Fishman always knew she was destined for something artistic. It was whilst working at an architectural company that she began to feel that she could possibly use her skills in a more creative way, and when someone suggested interior design, she jumped at the chance.

After gaining work experience at Country Homes and Interiors magazine, she then got her first proper styling job as Homes Assistant at Best Magazine.

“I sort of fell into this job really. I was getting frustrated at not being able to develop as a furniture designer or architect, but this job is ideal for me, and it’s so much fun.”

She worked at Best Magazine for around 10 years, working her way up from Homes Assistant to Deputy Homes Editor. In that time, she also had three children with her husband David, so she had to juggle a busy work life with her busy home life.

Whilst she was pregnant with her third child, Sadie, she decided to go freelance, so that she was able to spend more time with her young children. Since making this decision,

she has worked for various magazine styling rooms for decorating shoots, as well as doing makeover features in people’s homes.

“My job can be really exciting and very varied, from writing articles, being invited to press launches, and working with photographers.”

Emma also writes a regular feature for Home Style magazine, creating different looks and room set-ups and offering tips to readers. She is responsible for creating the looks, putting together mood boards, sourcing all the props and furniture from suppliers, as well as finding the location to shoot it in. She works closely with a small team consisting of an assistant, a decorator and a photographer to create beautifully composed room set-ups.

The preparation to get it all together can take up to 3 weeks for each shoot, so she is kept very busy.

“I love the chance to do interior styling where I can start from scratch with a blank canvas, and come up with ideas, themes and colours, and add my own creativity to a space.”

She also does makeover features for magazines on real people’s houses and finds this side of her job really rewarding. It was the positive feedback she received from homeowners that encouraged her to develop this side of her business, and she now offers private commissions for people to help transform their own homes.

Using her many years of styling and design experience, she works

closely with clients to create the look they want. She offers advice and knowledge on the best way to decorate and furnish rooms, and she works with top quality suppliers to transform a home into something beautiful and stylish.

Emma’s key styling tip when decorating a room is to not make everything too white and neutral, but instead be a bit bolder. Find a piece of fabric or furniture that you like, and use this to help create the colour scheme and theming for the room.

She understands current trends as well as more classic looks, and she attends many press launches and trade shows so she always knows what is new in the world of design.

“People are becoming a bit braver with colour and patterns now, and I love it. There are lots of great wallpapers and exciting colours that look great in any room.”

Yellow seems to be a bit of a favourite for Emma at the moment, and she recently decorated her youngest daughter’s room in a bright yellow spotty wallpaper, mixed with pink pom poms and funky furniture, which her daughter thinks is really cool.

For those just starting out in the world of interior design and styling, Emma’s advice would be to be as proactive as possible, and to get work experience to help build up skills. She also suggests that if you really want to stand out, sending examples of your work to particular magazines on spec, shows that you are enthusiastic and keen to get on.

Talking to Emma it is clear that she loves what she does and gets great pleasure in being able to share this with people, whether through her magazine features and writing, or on a more personal level by working

with people in their homes.

If you would like Emma’s interior styling and design help in your own home, check out her website www.creativemakeovers.co.uk or contact her on 07980 614 415.

As a special offer to readers of The Jewish Weekly, Emma is offering an hour-long one-to-one consultation for just £75. Remember to quote “Jewish Weekly” when making the booking.

Do you know anyone who specialises in an area of female expertise and would like to be featured on this page? Let us know by emailing micaela@thejewishweekly.com

Lemon tips and tricks

Jewish Weekly aims to source the most genius, time saving and useful hacks for you every week, so watch this space!

As the saying goes, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”

But if you are looking for some other uses for the humble lemon, here are a few handy household hacks that are easy peasy, lemon squeezy!!!

Microwave that dirt goodbye - Mix one cup of water with 1/4 of cup of lemon juice. In a microwaveable bowl or jug, put it in the microwave for five minutes. It will loosen grease or any other grime stuck to the microwave, and you can then easily just wipe it away.

Make yourself beautiful - For a super-quick home skincare treatment that can eliminate spots and blackheads, rub lemon halves across your face, wait about 10-15 minutes and rinse off with cold water. Beautiful!!

Odour-free hands - After chopping onions, wash your hands with water and rub a slice of lemon over them to get rid of the smell of onions.

Whiten your nails - Mix olive oil with a bit of lemon juice, and soak your nails in the mixture for a couple of minutes. This will help you not only whiten your nails but alsonstrengthen them to avoid splitting and breaking.

Brown be gone - Fed up with cut fruit and avocados going brown? Put a few slices of lemon in a bag with cut fruit and this should stop it going brown and yucky.

If you have any questions or there is something you want to feedback on, please contact us on office@thejewishweekly.com. Your question might be someone else’s solution!

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24 MAY 2017

NUTRITION 43

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Eat Dessert

BY ALAN FREISHTAT

There are many recipes for failure when it comes to weight loss and healthy eating. We all know by now that going on a diet is probably the worst thing you can do. Although there are multiple reasons as to why that is, one of the main explanations is that when people feel deprived, they will eventually run out of willpower and start eating mass quantities once again.

Michael came into my office last year and told me that even though he was still very heavy, he had already lost 10 kg, but now had gained four of them back. I asked him how he had lost the original weight. He responded by telling me that a few months ago he decided not to eat desserts. That’s how the 10 kg came off. When I asked him how the 4 kg came back on— yes, you guessed it, he started eating desserts again. So I proceeded to ask one more question—if you saw, that when you stopped eating dessert you lost weight, why didn’t you just stick with that? And especially now, seeing that reversing your original decision has resulted in weight gain, why don’t you just go back to what you were doing?

His answer was simple and to the point—he likes eating dessert and began to feel deprived.

You can lose weight and you can also eat dessert. No, you can’t eat as much as you want, and it’s certainly better to eat something lower in calories and high in nutrition. But to totally eliminate your favourite part of the meal can backfire on your ability to lose weight in the long term. Tiffani Bachus, R.D.N.,

and Erin Macdonald, R.D.N are both dieticians who specialize in weight loss for women of all ages.

They have some very specific suggestions about how to include dessert in your meals, but without causing much damage. Their first step is that when baking your desserts, you make some smart swaps.

Substituting healthy ingredients for less-healthy ones is a great way to

Instead of: All-purpose flour Margarine Sugar Whole eggs Whole milk Corn syrup Butter, oil

some superfoods to your desserts.

Sometimes all you need to make a recipe healthier, is to sneak in certain ingredients. Most baked goods can handle the addition of ground flax seeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds for a protein and fiber boost.

Chopped nuts, such as almonds, walnuts or pecans add a nice texture to biscuits, muffins, or brownies, and boost the fibre, healthy fat

Try: Whole-wheat pastry flour, nut flours, coconut flour* Butter in small amounts, or for pareve use coconut oil Coconut or date sugar, stevia** Egg whites (2 whites for every egg) or flax/chia egg (1 tbsp ground flax seed or chia seed mixed with 3 tbsp water) 1% milk, or almond, cashew or coconut milk Raw honey Applesauce, mashed banana

increase the nutritional value of your dessert without sacrificing taste. The following table makes it easy to make some smart swaps.

Please note that nut and coconut flours cannot be substituted in a one-to-one ratio for wheat flour.

There are several good cookbooks devoted to baking with these flours, and stevia is much sweeter than sugar, so much less is required.

Stevia is not recommended for baked goods.

They also suggest adding

and protein content. Superfood powders, such as maca, baobab and moringa, and spices such as cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg, blend in easily to any batter, adding both flavor and antioxidants. And they also say there is good news for the chocoholics out there—the darker the chocolate, the less sugar and more flavanols it has. Dark chocolate (at least 70%), cacao (raw, unprocessed cocoa powder) and cacao nibs can be added to a brownie or mousse recipe for layers of chocolate flavour and texture. The flavanols in chocolate are antioxidants, which act to lower inflammation and boost immunity.

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In general, keeping your desserts healthy most of the time is very beneficial. I know that in the summer time especially, we always have fresh fruit, particularly melons and watermelon, as a dessert choice. Instead of using pareve whips, which are full of trans fats, you can whip egg whites into a fluff and add any type of frozen fruit, such as strawberries, whip them together and then freeze them. Keep in mind that if you do use fruit or dried fruits, keep your portions under control as excessive amounts contain a lot of natural sugar calories. Stay away from “diet” foods—no-sugar biscuits and lowfat cakes can have as many calories as anything else, and somehow we fool ourselves into thinking that because they are “diet” foods we can eat more. That is far from the truth. Even if they have fewer calories, we may eat too many of them and consume even more calories than in a regular dessert.

Another option for dessert eaters is simply to eat much smaller portions of regular desserts. Even if they contain unhealthy ingredients, if people can teach themselves to control their portions and have one cookie, half a piece of cake or just take a few teaspoons of chocolate mousse, presuming that for the rest of their meal their portions were kept under control, this may be an option for them.

Just a reminder regarding desserts and particularly pareve desserts—many contain trans fats. How bad are they?

The Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia estimates that removing trans fats from the food supply altogether could prevent 7,000 deaths from heart disease per year. Remember, they appear as trans

fats, or hydrogenated, or partially hydrogenated oil in the ingredients.

If you are a reader of my columns, you already know this is the one food ingredient I tell people just NOT to consume.

Michael saw our dietician, and he also started exercising. He even ate desserts sometimes - but in a controlled manner with making some good choices too. He is still losing weight on a slow and steady basis without feeling deprived. You can eat dessert and still “add hours to your day, days to your year and years to your life.”

Alan Freishtat is an A.C.E. certified personal trainer and a behavioural change and wellness coach with over 19 years of professional experience. Alan is the creator and director of the “10 Weeks to Health” programme for weight loss and is available for private coaching sessions, consultations, assessments and personalised workout programmes both in his office and by telephone or Skype. Alan also lectures and gives seminars and workshops.

Contact Alan on 02-651-8502 or 050-555-7175, or email alan@alanfitness.com.

For more information visit www.alanfitness.com

24 MAY 2017

WINE 45

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Rosé all day every day

BY GABRIEL GELLER Spring is in the air! We may have just moved out of the Pesach season, but Shavuot and summer will be here before you can bat an eye.

Well what does this mean for us wine drinkers? Do wines discriminate between seasons, and are there specific wines that are better suited for the warmer seasons?

For a few years already, rosé (pink) wines have been the hot trend on the American wine market. What is the big deal? Rosé is not only the perfect thirst quencher for the upcoming days of sunshine, it is extremely food friendly and the perfect quaffer for a BBQ or a personal favorite, a picnic on the beach.

This pink wine is not a joke as some may see it. There is no requirement for a good wine to be red, bold, high in alcohol content or full of oaky flavors. On the

contrary, seasoned wine drinkers will often profess to enjoy white and rosé wines more than they enjoy heavy red wines. The most important piece to the wine puzzle is to be open-minded and try new things. Ask your friends or follow recommendations you read about.

But more importantly, get rid of all your preconceived notions about what wine should be and get out there and try new things! Try to understand and decipher the different flavors and aromas wafting in that glass. You will be pleasantly surprised at what you have been missing in those bottles all along.

Interestingly, rosé is made from the juice of red grapes that has been exposed to its skins only for a short period of time, ranging from a few minutes to several hours.

The colour on some of the new releases of rosés is almost as beautifully intoxicating as finishing a couple bottles with some friends.

It is important to note that rosé should be drunk as young and as fresh as possible. For example, we are almost mid-way through 2017; therefore while some 2015 rosés might still be fresh and appealing, the 2016 vintage of rosés has been released and is the vintage you should be looking for on the shelves. The fresher the rosé, the more likely you will be able to experience the aromas and flavors properly. Be sure to serve these offerings chilled. These wines may be relatively short lived, but the nuances of the flavors offered will be everlasting… until next year.

There are many styles of rosé out there. The classic ones come from Provence in France, and those that come from other regions are made in that style as well, which usually boasts a light salmon colour; for instance, the beautiful offerings from

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Château Roubine, as well as the Spanish Ramon Cardova Rosado.

These rosé wines are elegant and enticing, with high acidity, which makes them the perfect accompaniment to fish and cheese dishes alike. The other types of rosé can vary in colour from a light pink to a dark pink, and boast more fruity flavors expressing themselves in notes of cranberries, strawberries and watermelon. The Capçanes Peraj Petita Rosat as well as the Covenant Rosé are just like that.

The rosé offerings this season from Israel do not disappoint either. A front-runner is the Vitkin Journey Rosé. Darker in colour than a typical French Provence style rosé, this pink wine offers a beautiful nose of strawberries and mouthwatering cherries with the perfect amount of acidity to balance it out. It would pair perfectly with some brie

cheese and green apple sandwiches. Another wonderful selection comes from the Jezreel winery, which has become very popular for its unusual blends this year. It would pair perfectly with a bowl of kiwis and mangos. Be on the lookout as it should reach our shelves in a few weeks. Castel, known for their consistency in each vintage, offers their Provence style rosé from Israel boasting its distinguished salmon-coloured hue, and offers minerality like no other Israeli-made rosé. This wine would pair perfectly with a ceviche style appetizer of fresh cod marinated with jalapeno, pomegranate juice and cilantro.

Be careful, though. Rosé wines are so refreshing, easy to drink and delicious that you won’t even notice and the bottle will already be empty!

L’chaim!