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09 November 2017/ 20 Cheshvan 5778

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FORCED TO RESIGN

PRITI PATEL RESIGNS AFTER SECRET MEETINGS WITH ISRAELI OFFICIALS

BY LEAH MALKA

Priti Patel has resigned as International Development Secretary after failing to disclose she held meetings with Israeli politicians in recent months. Rumours were rife throughout Wednesday that Ms Patel would be sacked after being summoned back by Prime Minister Theresa May from a diplomatic trip to Africa. Arriving back from Nairobi, Kenya mid-afternoon, Ms Patel was whisked away from Heathrow Airport for a 30-minute showdown at Downing Street with the Prime Minister. In her resignation letter, Ms Patel said it had been a “privilege” to serve in the cabinet. Regarding the uproar over meetings with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other political ﬁgures from Israel, she noted, “I am sorry that these have served as

a distraction from the work of the Department for International Development and of the Government as a whole. As you know from our discussions I accept that in meeting with organisations and politicians during a private holiday in Israel my actions fell below the high standards that are expected of a Secretary of State. Ms Patel added, “While my actions were meant with the best of intentions, my actions also fell below the standards of transparency and openness that I have promoted and advocated. “I offer a fulsome apology to you and to the Government for what has happened and offer my resignation.” Replying to Ms Patel’s letter, Theresa May, noted, “The UK and Israel are close allies, and it is right that we should work closely together. But that must be done formally, and through official channels.”

BALFOUR 100 - FULL REPORT P2-3

Lord Balfour, Theresa May, Benyamin Netanyahu and Lord Rothschild admire the declaration PHOTO CREDIT: BLAKE EZRA

The Prime Minister added, “When we met on Monday, I was glad to accept your apology and welcomed your clariﬁcation about your trip to Israel over the summer.

Now that further details have come to light, it is right that you have decided to resign and adhere to the high standards of transparency and openness that you have advocated.”

The past days have seen intense political activity at Number 10. Ms Patel was reprimanded in CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

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2 NEWS

09 NOVEMBER 2017

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Balfour Centenary celebrated in style BY ADAM MOSES

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged with British Jewish leaders on a range of topics during his visit to celebrate the Balfour Declaration Centenary. The Board of Deputies and Jewish Leadership Council hosted a meeting where the Israeli leader reinforced an overriding message that Israel stands as the vanguard of democracy against a backdrop of extremism sweeping across the Middle East. Prime Minister Netanyahu stressed the need for the British Jewish community to continue its support for Israel despite growing anti-Israel feelings in wider society. Other issues discussed included Israel’s developing relationships with Arab countries and the threat Iran poses to Israel and the wider world. There was also an update on Israel’s technological and start-up sector and increase in trade between Israel and the UK. Board of Deputies president, Jonathan Arkush, said: “I regard it as extremely signiﬁcant the Israeli Prime Minister wanted to talk with us and hear our views directly. “We, in turn, had the opportunity to hear Mr Netanyahu’s direct assessment of Israel’s strategic position in our fast-changing world.” “At the end of an enriching week for Anglo Jewry, it was ﬁtting that we look to the future and recommit ourselves to an even stronger relationship between the UK Jewish community and Israel,” commented Jonathan Goldstein, Jewish Leadership Council. Organisations represented included Conservative Friends of Israel, Labour Friends of Israel, Zionist Federation, UJS, UJIA, European Jewish Congress and Community Security Trust. Prime Minister Netanyahu visited London at the invitation of Prime Minister Theresa May. During the

Tony Blair

trip he outlined his concerns about the Iranian regime’s regional aggression at Chatham House at a question and answer event, and at the London Stock Exchange, he discussed the success of Israeli technology. Prime Ministers May and Netanyahu joined Lord Rothschild, politicians and diplomats at a dinner to mark the Balfour Declaration centenary at Lancaster House. The landmark event was hosted by Lord Rothschild and Lord Balfour and commemorated 100 years since the Balfour Declaration was signed on November 2, 1917. Lord Rothschild addressed over 150 guests in opening the dinner. “Tonight we ask ourselves what does the balance sheet looks like 120 years after the Dreyfus case in France, 73 years after World War II, almost 70 years since the founding of the State of Israel, as we mark the 100 years after the Declaration?,” he said. “The Declaration not only set out to establish a national home for the Jewish people but, in addition, a society which would ensure the civil and religious rights of its non-Jewish residents. “We cannot forget that Israel has a unique strategic vulnerability, given Iran’s stated policy to destroy the country. Hezbollah in the north, and Hamas in the south, both supported by Iran, have like objectives. Security and defence must therefore remain of paramount importance. But even when the obstacles to peace seem intractable, above all a vision is needed, for, as the Proverbs say, “where there is no vision, the people perish”. “We know that the ultimate prize of peace will take time, endless effort, thought, goodwill, judgement, faith, energy and courage, and these virtues are not in short supply. “In pursuit of peace, it must surely be of crucial importance to avoid impediments and obstacles which could jeopardise the peace we all seek.” The original Balfour Declaration, usually housed at the British Library, was on display for guests to view. The Declaration was last loaned to the Knesset from October 1987 to May 1988, to mark both the 70th anniversary of the Declaration and the 40th anniversary of the State of Israel. Both Prime Minister Netanyahu and May focused on the relationship between the UK and Israel and signiﬁcance of the Balfour Declaration..

“The State of Israel would not have come into being, but it was the Balfour Declaration that galvanised international support for Zionism as never before and paved the path for Zionism’s entry on the world stage,” said Prime Minister Netanyahu. “Now, a once stateless and powerless people has found its place among the nations.” He added, “Prime Minister May, the Balfour Declaration put Britain on the right side of history in marking that declaration today you are keeping Britain on the right side of history. “On behalf of Israel and the people of Israel I thank you.” Prime Minister May described the letter written by Lord Rothschild’s great-uncle as “one of the most significant” in history, helping make a Jewish homeland a reality. Declaring support for Israel, she noted a Downing Street meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu earlier in the day, looking to deepen links where Israel led the world. “Israel is the true start-up nation,” Prime Minister May said. “We also remain absolutely committed to Israel’s security. We will always support Israel’s right to defend itself. And in a world where Britain and Israel increasingly face the same shared challenges and threats, I am just as clear that our security services will continue to deepen their already excellent co-operation to keep all our people safe.” Calling for a lasting peace based on a two-state solution where there is a “safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian State”, Prime Minister May condemned the “new and pernicious form of anti-Semitism which uses criticism of the actions of the Israeli government as a despicable justification for questioning the very right of Israel to exist.” She added, “This is abhorrent and we will not stand for it. That is why the United Kingdom has been at the forefront of an international effort to create a new definition of anti-Semitism which explicitly calls out this inexcusable attempt to

Prime Minster Netanyahu updated British leaders at a meeting

justify hatred.” Denouncing anti-Semitsm under the guise of anti-Zionism, she commented, “Criticising the actions of Israel is never, and can never be, an excuse for questioning Israel’s right to exist, any more than criticising the actions of Britain could be an excuse for questioning our right to exist. The British leader added, “Criticising the government of Israel is never – and can never be – an excuse for hatred against the Jewish people – any more than criticising the British government would be an excuse for hatred against the British people. “Put simply, there can be no excuses for any kind of hatred towards the Jewish people. There never has been – and there never will be.” “The Balfour Centenary has provided a remarkable opportunity for us to reflect with pride on the role of the British Government in the establishment of the Jewish State,” reflected Chief Rabbi Mirvis. “To have the British and Israeli Prime Ministers rejoicing in Jewish nationhood together is a truly historic occasion upon which generations to come will look back with great pride.” Members of the Government, Her Majesty’s Opposition, Ministers, MPs, international politicians and members of the Jewish community attended the official dinner. Former Secretary of State John Kerry, Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, Israeli opposition leader Isaac Herzog and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby were also present. Prior to the dinner, organised by Balfour 100, acclaimed historian and documentary maker Simon Schama delivered the Balfour Centenary Lecture at the Royal Society.

The Jewish Weekly

During his lecture, he outlined the persecuted history of the Jewish people throughout Europe and Russia before the Second World War. “Israel still stands as a living, breathing, debating, thriving, rejoicing democracy,” he said. “Israel’s six million Jews are the ultimate retort to the number that Adolf Hitler exterminated. “The life of Israel is Hitler’s failure. But it’s also to hope against all the odds that somehow the vision set out by Yitzchak Epstein or that for which Yitzchak Rabin sacrificed his life to a murderous bunch 22 years ago this coming Shabbat will not be entirely and forever in vain. “I myself see the small vindications of it. Schools like Yad Ve’Yad where the governing bodies, both Israeli and Palestinians, work together.” The lecture took place in front of a capacity audience of 300 and was streamed live to locations in London, Bournemouth, Leeds, Glasgow, Belfast, Brighton and Barnet. The Royal Society was chosen as the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence. “Simon Schama gave a mesmerising and thought-provoking talk on the Declaration’s significance,” said Simon Johnson on behalf of the Balfour 100 steering committee. Bevis Marks Synagogue hosted a closing ‘Balfour Shabbat’ to mark the end of the Balfour Declaration’s centenary. Chief Rabbi Mirvis recited a prayer to mark the occasion to a 500-strong crowd in attendance. Lord Balfour recited the declaration drafted by his ancestor. The Balfour 100 Steering Committee organised the service, which included addresses from Rabbi Joseph Dweck, Lord Rothschild and Lord Kestenbaum. WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK

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09 NOVEMBER 2017 “While we deal with the politics and social dynamics we must never oversimplify what is quite truly complex,” said Rabbi Dweck. “We must also remember there is more to that land than the remnant spell of history. It is alive with its people and is reawakened. “Lord Balfour set the tenor in Britain that Israel is to be applauded not condemned, embraced not boycotted, celebrated not shunned, she is a gift to the world and we pray the world will one day receive her with open arms.” Lord Kestenbaum paid tribute to the role Lord Rothschild played in making the centenary a success. “You inspired an unprecedented set of activities to mark this historic centenary,” he said. “They have been good natured, they have

John Kerry and Boris Johnson

NEWS 3

THE JEWISH WEEKLY unified, some might call that a second Balfour miracle. It has been embraced in all parts of the community, engaged the Government and even parts of the Opposition. “For all those reasons those three words, which began the journey to statehood - ‘Dear Lord Rothschild’ - are as evocative today as they were 100 years ago. “For inspiring this centenary, we as a community offer you our heartfelt thanks.” Reflecting on the service, British Ambassador to Israel, Mark Regev, commented: “This week’s anniversary has reminded a great many people of the Balfour Declaration’s important role in galvanising international support for Israel’s rebirth. “As we look forward to celebrating Balfour’s great legacy in the

Minister resigns amidst scandal CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Theresa May

Knesset in the coming days we remember our people’s journey from statelessness to sovereignty. We stand proud of the Jewish state’s achievements as both our national home and a thriving, robust democracy.” Balfour 100, initiated by Lord Jacob Rothschild and managed by a steering committee representing Jewish communal organisations, is the oﬃcial tribute of the British Jewish community marking the centenary of the Balfour Declaration. Over 160 events took place from Belfast to Hull, Plymouth and London over a week ranging from school assemblies to communal events and educational programmes.

PHOTO CREDITS: BLAKE EZRA

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clear-the-air talks on Monday to ascertain a full disclosure on holding 12 undisclosed meetings whilst holidaying in Israel during August – and for claiming Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson knew about the visit in advance. Lord Polak, honorary president of the Conservative Friends of Israel, accompanied Ms Patel to all bar one meeting where she met, businesses, tech start-ups and humanitarian NGOs. When news subsequently broke of two further undisclosed meetings with Israeli politicians Gilad

Priti Patel

Erdan and Yuval Rotem, matters escalated. Downing Street were forced to deny instructing Ms Patel not to publicise the meeting with Mr Rotem as it would embarrass the Foreign Oﬃce. The Prime Minister’s spokesman acknowledged Number 10 was aware of the meeting but it was not on the list disclosing 12 meetings. Within hours, Ms Patel, who was elected Member of Parliament for Witham in Essex in 2010 and International Development Secretary in July 2016, had resigned from the Cabinet.

4 ISRAEL NEWS

09 NOVEMBER 2017

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NEWS IN ISRAEL

IN ASSOCIATION WITH BICOM

Palestinian reconciliation stalls over Gaza security Hamas and Fatah are involved in a major dispute over security control in the Gaza Strip, only one week after the Palestinian Authority (PA) assumed control over the Gaza border crossings from Hamas as part of their broader reconciliation agreement. PA Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah called for the factions to ﬁnd a resolution to security control

issue at the weekly Cabinet meeting yesterday. The Cabinet subsequently issued a statement saying that the unity government would not be able to carry out its duties without having control of the security forces. On Monday, Hamdallah called the issue “a big problem at Gaza’s borders,” adding that the PA had “received the borders in theory but

Hamas sniper PHOTO CREDIT: BICOM

without security. It’s impossible to manage the borders without solving the security problem”. Hamas Interior Ministry spokesman Iyad al-Bazam expressed surprise at Hamdallah’s comments, saying that Hamas had “suggested that the [Hamas] security services in Gaza would be responsible for ongoing security until the subject is regulated”. He added “Senior PA oﬃcials who came to Gaza refused and asked all The wall at Gaza Hamas members, including security personnel, to leave the Though there is currently no Hamas presence at the crossings, crossings”. Hamas handed over admin- Jack Khoury in Haaretz suggested istrative control of ﬁve border that Hamdallah expects not only crossings in Gaza to the Palestin- security control of border crossian Government of National Con- ings, but full PA security control sensus headed by Prime Minister in Gaza. The Palestinian factions Rami Hamdallah on 1 November. are due to meet in Cairo on 21

Party leaders rule out working with Gabbay The leaders of Israel’s Kulanu and Yisrael Beiteinu parties have ruled out joining a future government led by Zionist Union leader Avi Gabbay. Finance Minister, and Kulanu leader, Moshe Kahlon said: “I can say in the clearest way possible: We will not all be a ﬁg leaf in a leftist government… I am a member of the national camp, unlike the Labour Party. Therefore, I do not see any situation in which we all join the leftist Labour government.” In what appeared to be a coordinated move, Defence Minister and Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman said his party would not work with Gabbay. In an interview with Army Radio Gabbay ruled out working with Yisrael Beiteinu. He said: “Lieberman is the forefather of the problematic rightwing… I said he’s the last one I’ll talk to, so he can rest easy.” There has been recent speculation that Gabbay

is hoping to recruit Moshe Ya’alon, Lieberman’s predecessor as Defence Minister, into the Zionist Union. At last weeks Zionist Union faction meeting Gabbay told colleagues that “when we win 30 seats, everyone will want to be a part of our coalition”. He added that “the only thing [Kahlon and Lieberman] achieved is to give the public the correct notion that the next government will be a centre-left one led by myself”. Since Gabbay took over the leadership, the Zionist Union appears to be increasing in popularity. Polls published last weekend by the two leading TV news channels showed the Zionist Union closing the gap on Likud putting the Zionist Union at 21 seats and the Likud at 24. The other centrist party, Yesh Atid, led by Yair Lapid, is also continuing to gain ground. Elections are not due until November 2019.

November to discuss the issue. BICOM is publishing a brieﬁng paper by Senior Visiting Fellow Brig. Gen. (res) Michael Herzog examining the factors that led to the recent Palestinian reconciliation deal and the major issues that need to be addressed.

Abbas meets Sisi and Saudi King

Mahmoud Abbas PHOTO CREDIT: BICOM

Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo Earlier this week. Wafa News reported that al-Sisi “aﬃrmed that Egypt will continue its eﬀorts to resume negotiations between the Israeli and Palestinian sides in order to reach a just and comprehensive solution that guarantees the right of the Palestinians to establish an independent state along June 1967 borders”. On 1 November, Hamas began the process of handing over the three Gaza border crossings to the PA, as part of the September reconciliation agreement that was brokered by Egypt. The main sticking point to further reconciliation agreements is the status of Hamas’s military wing. Abbas

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has said that he will not accept a “Hezbollah model” in which an organisation is both part of government but maintains its own military wing. Egypt has delayed any discussion on this issue. Other outstanding issues include the payment of civil service salaries and whether Hamas will join the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO). Abbas later ﬂew to Riyadh where he is scheduled to meet Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman. The PA Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Bassem al-Agha, said that Abbas’s visit to Riyadh “comes in the context of continuing bilateral communications and deepening ties between the two countries”.

09 NOVEMBER 2017

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Saudi Arabia says missile attack was act of war Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Adel bin Ahmed al-Jubeir has said that the Kingdom regards the failed ballistic missile attack on Riyadh’s international airport as an act of war by Iran. He told CNN that Saudi Arabia will take “appropriate” measures when the time is right. “It was an Iranian missile, launched by Hezbollah, from territory occupied by the Houthis in Yemen. We see this as an act of war. Iran cannot lob missiles at Saudi cities and towns and expect us not to take steps. We reserve the right to respond in the appropriate manner at the appropriate time,” he said.

King Salaman PHOTO CREDIT: BICOM

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Israeli-Druze broke through Syria border fence

Jubair added that the missile had been smuggled into Yemen in parts and was assembled there by members of Hezbollah and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps of Iran before being fired from Yemen by Hezbollah. On Saturday, Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for firing the Burkan 2-H missile, a Scud-type missile with a range of more than 800km, at Riyadh. The missile was destroyed in an unpopulated area on the outskirts of Riyadh. In response to Jubeir’s comments, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi described Saudi claims about Tehran’s involvement as “false, irresponsible, destructive and provocative”. He said that the “Yemeni response is an independent one and a result of Saudi Arabia’s aggression, one which is not carried out or provoked by any other country”. In a statement posted on social media, Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif also dismissed Saudi Arabia’s accusations, saying Riyadh is “engaged in wars of aggression, regional bullying, destabilising behaviour and risky provocations”. On Monday, Saudi Arabia accused Lebanon of declaring war against it because of aggression by Hezbollah. In an interview with Al-Arabiya TV Saudi Gulf Affairs Minister Thamer al-Sabhan said: “We will treat the government of Lebanon as a government declaring a war because of Hezbollah militias. Lebanon is kidnapped by the militias of Hezbollah and behind it is Iran.”

TEA-CEMBER 2017 IS COMING...

ISRAEL NEWS 5

Israeli police arrested seven residents of the Golan villages of Majdal a-Shams and Kinia. The seven, who included two minors, are accused of breaking through the Golan border fence on Friday. They were attempting to assist residents of the Syrian Druze village of Khader, at the foot of Mount Hermon, who were fighting Syrian rebel groups associated with al-Qaida. They entered into Syrian territory before being caught by the IDF. Police have accused the seven individuals of rioting, attacking police officers and soldiers, damaging the security fence and entering the restricted buffer zone between Israel and Syria. A police spokesman added that their actions “threatened the lives of residents and soldiers in the area”. On Friday, members of the jihadist group Jabhat al-Sham detonated a car bomb in Khader killing at least nine people. This was followed by the villagers and jihadists exchanging rocket and small arms fire, some of which spilled over into Israeli territory and lightly injured a resident of Majdal Shams. The fighting raised fears among the Israeli Druze community in the

Golan that the village was going to be captured by the jihadists. In response, hundreds of Israeli-Druze demonstrated near the border fence, with a few breaking through. Druze leaders also demanded that the Israel take an unequivocal position in a meeting with the Northern Command head Maj. Gen. Yoel Strik. This resulted in the IDF stating on Friday that it “was prepared to assist residents of Khader to prevent occupation” by the rebel groups, “as part of our commitment to the Druze population”. This position was a signiﬁcant departure from the IDF’s longheld position of non-intervention in the Syrian Civil War. Writing in Maariv on the significance of the IDF statement, Yossi Melman argued that “aside from the four objectives that Israel set for itself in the war in Syria—non-intervention, preserving the quiet on the border, retaliating for any violation of its sovereignty, and preventing the transfer of sophisticated weaponry to Hezbollah—a ﬁfth objective has been added: defending the Druze in Syria (who number about one million), even though most of them back the [Assad] regime”.

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Kristallnacht remembered

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Today is the yahrzeit of Kristallnacht. Kristallnacht is also referred to as the name of the ‘Night of Broken Glass’. This refers to the little bits of broken glass left in the streets after these pogroms. Joseph Goebbels gave a speech attacking the Jews and called for an attack against the Jews. On this night close to 100 Jews were killed and 30,000 Jewish men were arrested and sent to Nazi concentration camps the following day. Some women were also arrested and sent to local jails. Synagogues, Jewish Homes, schools, businesses, hospitals and cemeteries were vandalised. The police were instructed not to intervene to stop the attacks. The fire brigade were called out to protect non-Jewish businesses and homes, but not to put out the fires in Jewish-owned buildings. From then on curfews were placed on Jews, limiting the hours of the day they could leave their homes, and life became extremely difficult for all Jewish families. The Times wrote at the time: “No foreign propagandist bent upon blackening Germany before the world could outdo the tale of burnings and beatings, of blackguardly assaults on defenceless and innocent people, which disgraced that country yesterday.” Kristallnacht marks the first instance in which the Nazi regime incarcerated Jews on a massive scale simply on the basis of their ethnicity. Let us never forget this night and may we never witness such terrible atrocities.

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09 NOVEMBER 2017

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09 NOVEMBER 2017

Catford Synagogue Malava Malka Twin event

Oﬃcial deﬁnition of anti -Semitism adopted by Stockport Council

Catford and Bromley United Synagogue celebrated the twin event of its 80th Anniversary and the centenary of the Balfour Declaration at a Melave Malka on 4th November 2017. The guests in the packed Synagogue Hall which included the local MP, members of Lewisham Council and visitors from other North London Synagogues were provided with an enjoyable three course dinner. They

Guests enjoy the Melave Malka

Professor Michael Berkowitz speaks

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were entertained by the London Cantorial Singers with guest Chazanim David Hilton and Rev David Rome. The excellent and thought provoking lecture on the Balfour Declaration was given by Professor Michael Berkowitz of UCL The Chairman Joe Burchell explained how the Synagogue was started in 1937 with 50 members and 20 children and now 80 years later it had

a membership of 230 families with a Cheder of over 30 children . The Synagogue joined the United Synagogue in1938 as an Aﬃliate and Mr Burchell explained how proud he was that Catford has remained still in that category. Marie Blumenfeld ‘Catford Synagogues First Lady’ (96) spoke amusingly of being a member for all those years and how ‘unique’ Catford was.

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Following consultation with the Jewish Leadership Council (JLC), Stockport Council has unanimously agreed to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. The definition, which was set out by the IHRA in Bucharest last year, will help to ensure there is clarity around what antisemitism is. The new description is a clear and practical working definition of antisemitism. It is hoped that through adopting it a confidence will be created within the Jewish community in Stockport, and it will be easy to recognise what is and is not anti-Semitic. Marc Levy, North West regional manager at the JLC said: “The JLC is delighted that Stockport Council has unanimously adopted the IHRA definition on antisemitism. We have a fantastic relationship with Council Leader Cllr Alex Ganotis who has always committed to tackling hate crime in all its forms. “The local Jewish community

know that it is vital that there is a clear and practical definition that will allow us to fight antisemitism in all its forms. I look forward to continuing to work with Stockport Council as we continue to make strides in this area.” Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Alex Ganotis, added: “Although I am pleased that we have adopted a clear and strong stance against antisemitism, it is a pity these statements need to be made at all in 2017. “That said, we have now committed in the clearest possible terms to act as an entity to fight this pernicious form of racism in all its forms. Those words are core to this motion, sending a strong, cross-party message on this issue to the Jewish community, and to all who experience hate crime. “We will continue working hard to eliminate all forms of racism in Stockport, and look forward to working with the Jewish Leadership Council in future to that end.”

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Work Avenue, Wohl Enterprise Hub, Redbourne Avenue, London N3 2BS www.theworkavenue.org.uk Registered with Charity Commission 1164762

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JNF UK’s sell-out comedy evening raises funds for Eden Therapeutic A sold out audience packed the Gatehouse Theatre in Highgate for JNF UK’s sixth annual “Kosher Komedy” event on 29th October 2017. 145 people ﬁlled the intimate venue and were entertained by a line-up of great comedians who brought the house down with their own brand of Jewish humour. Host Mark Maier along with stand-up comedians Bennett Arron, Addy Van Der Borgh and Sol Bernstein kept the audience rolling with laughter, helping JNF UK to raise essential funds for the Eden Therapeutic home for Israeli girls who have suﬀered abuse.

Mark Maier

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THE JEWISH WEEKLY

A barrel of laughs

Tracy Lee, event chair said, “Kosher Komedy is always a fun evening, and this year was no exception. I have had the privilege of seeing many of the incredible projects JNF UK are involved with in the Negev area of Israel and it is very rewarding to organise an event to raise funds to contribute to Eden Karmia. Yonatan Galon, CEO of JNF UK, said: “JNF UK is all about putting smiles on faces, and the audience tonight won’t be the only ones

smiling, because their support will also help the girls at Eden Karmia to smile again. These girls have suﬀered terrible abuse, but the therapeutic home for which we are raising money makes sure that they receive all the love and support they need to help put a smile back on their faces, equipping them with the conﬁdence they need to face the wider world.” Bushey members warm-up early for Mitzvah

Community warm-up early for Mitzvah Day Members from Bushey Synagogue got into the Mitzvah Day spirit a few weeks early this year by volunteering for the charity Small Acts of Kindness. This charity sources, packs and distributes over 3000 ‘Warm in Winter’ bags each year to older, often lonely and socially isolated people in Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere. The bags include a blanket, hat, warm socks, cup-a-soups and hot drink sachets. The charity was the brainchild of Lynn Misner who explained ‘At the heart of this charity is the incredibly simple belief that a small act of kindness can make a huge diﬀerence. Sarah Zackheim, one of Bushey Synagogue’s Mitzvah Day coordinators said, “our members had an extremely rewarding time packing the ‘Warm in Winter’ bags today. Small Acts of Kindness really ﬁts in with the general Mitzvah Day message this year ‘L’Dor Vador - from generation to generation’ and we can’t wait to embark on the rest of

Mitzvah Day Coordinators Alisa Heimann and Sarah Zackheim starting early for Mitzvah Day volunteering for the charity Small Acts of Kindness

Bushey Shul’s projects on Mitzvah Day itself. These include a Mitzvah Day seniors’ and juniors’ tea and an interfaith project with St Peters Church visiting elderly members of their community”

Bushey Synagogue celebrate Balfour 100

Over 300 people were involved in the numerous events Bushey Synagogue put on as part of the official Balfour 100 celebrations. Rebbetzin Ilana Epstein was the scholar-in-residence over Shabbat and she led an inspiring session for the community as well as engaging with the youth who enjoyed a Shwarma Kiddush after a discussion on the significance of the Balfour Declaration. Members could also choose to attend an early morning session led by history teacher Barnaby Nemko as well as an afternoon shiur by Rabbi Elchonon Feldman on the halachic perspective of political Zionism. Children were also involved as they learned the basics about Balfour and enjoyed a Kiddush with Israeli nosh! The main event was a Melava Malka after Shabbat with guest speaker Elkan Levy. In speaking about the Shabbat Balfour 100 programme Rabbi Feldman said ‘Bushey made a special effort to celebrate 100 years since the Balfour Declaration with a weekend of guest speakers, a full youth programme and of course Israeli-themed food. Elkan Levy concluded the weekend with a spell-binding presentation on the importance of The Balfour Declaration and everyone present felt honoured to be part of such an important commemoration and celebration”

Bushey Shul members including Rebbetzin Jacqueline Feldman with the bags they packed for Small Acts of Kindness

B’nai B’rith Abraham Lewin Lodge: Balfour celebration

Elkan Levy was the guest speaker at Bushey’s Balfour 100 Melava Malka

The Abraham Lewin Lodge of B’nai B’rith UK held a celebration event at the Enﬁeld & Winchmore Hill synagogue at which former President of the lodge, Malcolm Factor presented the background and events leading to the Balfour Declaration. National President of B’nai B’rith UK. Alan Miller in his address described the involvement

of statesman and scientist, Chaim Weizmann as the President of the World Zionist movement, his years in Manchester as a B’nai B’rith member where he launched the campaign which culminated in the declaration of the Balfour declaration of 1917. The celebration tea was organised by B’nal B’rith Abraham Lewin Lodge President, Avril Joseph.

Rabbi Elchonon Feldman, Elkan Levy Malcolm Factor, Avril Joseph,Alan Miller and Eve Swabe

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The Portnoy Brothers perform Consecration of Stanley Grossmith Music at intimate West Hampstead gig Conservatory in Yerucham British-Israeli folk rock duo The Portnoy Brothers performed last week at the West Hampstead home of Rabbi Moshe Mayerfeld, who heads up Aish UK’s Young Professionals division. Manchester-born siblings Sruli and Mendy Portnoy entertained the 55- strong crowd of young professionals. This special performance was part of the busy schedule of events taking place each week at the Mayerfeld Lounge, which also includes a weekly “Around the Table” evening – an intimate and personal learning

JNF UK and the municipality of Yerucham held a special dedication ceremony on 19th October at the Stanley Grossmith Music Conservatory in Yerucham. In the presence of Mr Grossmith’s widow, Patricia Grossmith, local residents and a UK delegation from the JNF UK Legacy Mission were addressed by the Mayor of Yerucham. The main sign at the entrance to the conservatory was unveiled in memory of Stanley Grossmith, and a blessing was said as the centre’s mezuzah was installed. Stanley Grossmith was a lifelong supporter of JNF UK, contributing over the years to many projects in the Negev towns of Sderot and Yerucham. He left a generous donation to this project, and also had a kindergarten in Yerucham named after him. In 1956, Mr Grossmith co-founded Brecker Grossmith in Wigmore Street, developing one of the most dynamic and best known commercial property ﬁrms in the heart of London’s West End. The company was known for training generations of leading agency negotiators and

Charlotte and Ben Menahem with Sruli Portnoy

course for young professionals living and working in London and the surrounding areas.

Portnoy Brothers performing

Volunteer Spotlight I am from South East London and have been volunteering for the London School of Jewish Studies for the past 2 years in the library. I also work part time in an office. I’ve volunteered quite regularly over the years including at voluntary organisations and a childrens centre. How and why did you get into volunteering? I believe it’s always good to give back to society.

As a Christian, some of the fundamentals of my religious belief is based on the Old Testament and Judaism, so I wanted to study Hebrew. My current volunteering role is a good introduction to Jewish culture and learning Hebrew. I searched for Hebrew courses online and found LSJS. I noticed a section about volunteering and the LSJS website redirected me to JVN where I looked for opportunities What do you volunteer?

Legacies of JNF UK said “JNF UK is proud of its work in the Negev. We nurture the relationship between Israel and those in the UK who are determined to help it continue to thrive. Our legacy mission this year has been an enormous success. Stanley Grossmith’s legacy provides a wonderful example to all of us. We are delighted that we could share this special occasion with our future legacy clients, who have enjoyed this varied and exciting trip to Israel as well as our year-round programme of exclusive events speciﬁcally designed for them.”

Patricia Grossmith PHOTO CREDIT: Mishel Amzalleg

WINIFRED OTOO Tell us about yourself

chartered surveyors. JNF UK is involved with the renovation and expansion of the existing music conservatory in Yerucham. The conservatory, like other public buildings in the town, was previously in a state of disrepair and had become too small to meet current demand. The renovation includes six soundproofed rehearsal rooms, an upgraded concert hall and the installation of new technical equipment. A new wing will comprise ﬁve additional rehearsal rooms. Soon, every child in Yerucham will be able to receive music lessons. Michael Biton, the Mayor of Yerucham, said “Stanley Grossmith and his family’s contribution to our town will make a positive impact on the lives of not just the children and adults who use the conservatory now, but also those in generations to come. We greatly appreciate JNF UK’s work in connecting the British Jewish community to our town, and are especially thankful for the legacy of Mr Grossmith and others like him who choose to help Israel both during and after their lives.” Carolyn Addleman, Director of

I am involved in all aspects of librarianship, but predominantly I help in reorganising the library to make it easier for people to use. There’s a lot of organising, archiving and online cataloguing as we take it into the 21st century for future generations to enjoy.

How has volunteering changed your life and how do you think it affects the people you volunteer for? Volunteering makes me feel empowered. I’ve learned a great deal whilst helping out and its forms a great connection with my area of interest. Just by being around the books, I’m starting to feel more

Think Volunteering, Think JVN www.jvn.org.uk info@jvn.org.uk 020 8203 6427 @JVN_org_uk THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

comfortable around Hebrew words and recognising letters. I believe it’s better to learn about things in context and I feel immersed in Jewish Culture. I think this will form a good basis for my future studies in Hebrew. Volunteering in general also makes me feel good about myself. It brings the feel good factor!

14 NEWS

09 NOVEMBER 2017

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Cornerstone of new Derech Jewish Living Experience Eretz campus laid exhibition is launched in Hertsmere In recognition of the huge support of British Jewry through JNF UK to the highly successful social project Derech Eretz, delegates on JNF UK’s Legacy Mission to Israel last week took part in a moving ceremony to lay the cornerstone of a new building in Kmehin. Together with youngsters who will beneﬁt from its programme, JNF UK’s future legacy donors helped to get the building of an exciting new Derech Eretz campus underway. Derech Eretz is a six month pre-military programme for recent high-school graduates from the middle and lower classes in Israel. The programme encourages social mobility, initiative, pioneering spirit and volunteerism, helping make military service more meaningful whilst also laying the groundwork for a life of success and giving back to the community. JNF UK has contributed £828,000 to Derech Eretz since 2011. Operating from campuses in the Negev, Derech Eretz also hopes to engage and inspire its participants to take up the next great pioneering mission of settling and developing the Negev. Derech Eretz began life on a small campus in Nitzana, and with JNF UK’s help has opened up an additional two campuses in Yerucham and Kmehin. Legacy Mission participants commented that they look forward to coming back in future years to see the growing campus and its

successful work. Carolyn Addleman, Director of Legacies, from JNF UK, said “Projects like Derech Eretz are central to JNF UK’s policy of helping pioneering organisations in Israel. Our legacy mission is just one of many events we hold throughout the year to help strengthen the connection between the Jewish community in the UK and the Jewish homeland in Israel. Those who generously leave a legacy to JNF UK ensure that their support not only connects our our two countries, but also connects generations, with programmes like Derech Eretz ensuring the future of Israel is strengthened through the personal development of its young people.”

Schoolchildren at the exhibition

Gewolb said: “In today’s diﬃcult climate of antisemitism and other forms of race hate, is it vital that we educate non-Jewish children and other groups about Judaism- our religious beliefs, practices and culture. It is only through education that we can help to challenge the myths and misconceptions about

the Jewish people and send a positive message about our willingness to engage will all faiths and none. Understanding leads to tolerance and respect, and the Board of Deputies Jewish Living Experience exhibition leads the way in outreach education.”

Jeﬀ Brazier ‘feels 10ft tall’ after completing Norwood Cycling Challenge in Kerala

Cornerstone being laid

Taking the NXT step NXT, Aish UK’s pioneering sixth form programme, launched its brand new groups this week at three Jewish secondary schools across the UK. NXT gives students a taste of their “next step” in life after school, providing unique opportunities to meet with successful business people and professionals from a wide range of industries, and discuss how Jewish values helped them achieve success. Over the past week students from JFS, Immanuel College and Kantor King Solomon High School all took part in motivating and inspiring visits, including Neil Blair of The Blair Partnership, Keith Breslauer of Patron Capital, Philip Pfeﬀer of Herbert Smith Freehills and Saul Zneimer of HBFS. They also had the privilege of hearing from Rabbi Daniel Rowe about the use of artiﬁcial intelligence in the workplace. Since its inception three years

Hundreds of Hertfordshire schoolchildren and members of the public will be learning about the Jewish way of life this month following the launch of the Jewish Living Experience (JLE) Exhibition in Borehamwood. The event at Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue was attended by the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Mayor Cllr Eric Silver, Rabbi Chaim Kanterovitz and Board of Deputies Vice President Sheila Gewolb. More than 7,000 schoolchildren from 10 schools will learn about the Jewish way of life at the exhibition, which is hosted by JLEX. It is aimed primarily at school groups and enables visitors to gain an insight into Judaism as a living faith. Designed by education experts, the exhibition supports the teaching of Judaism in line with all agreed religious education and citizenship curriculums. Following the launch, Sheila

ago, Aish UK have run over 90 NXT sessions attracting over 250 students. Rabbi Ari Kayser, Aish Schools Manager, commented. “It’s fantastic to see so many students signing up to this programme… we encourage them to dream big, to use their creativity, and think outside of the box. A number of students in previous years have secured sought after work experience placements and even full time jobs through NXT”.

JFS students with Philip Pfeﬀer

Reality TV star and grief counsellor Jeff Brazier speaks about taking to the roads of Kerala, Southern India in his latest Cycling Challenge for UK charity Norwood. Jeff Brazier returned to the UK on Sunday, 5 November having joined more than 20 other cyclists to take on a five day, 358km charity bike ride across Kerala for Jewish charity Norwood. He is a long-term supporter of the charity, which supports vulnerable children and their families, children with special educational needs and people with learning disabilities and autism. Having previously cycled in Madagascar and Sri Lanka to raise money for Norwood, Jeff said he was inspired to get back in the saddle “to regain confidence that I still had that mental strength to succeed”. “It’s been a couple of years since my last Norwood Challenge,” he said. “And I really needed to have a break from the day-to-day routine of working and being a dad. At the same time I really wanted to test myself and do something for Norwood, which is a charity that does such great work. These Challenges are a great way to do that, I feel ten feet tall!” The Challenge started at Cochin on the south-west coast of India, before taking the cyclists through

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Jeﬀ embracing a friend after completing the challenge

the forests of Neriyamanagalam, the holiday resort of Munnar and the Idukki and Kulamavu dam. “The Challenges are always tough, which they need to be so you get a sense that you’ve really earned all of the sponsorship money,” Jeﬀ said. “But this one was particularly hard; on the Monday we must have cycled for about 10 hours and climbed almost 2,000 metres. You soon forget about the physical pain though when you’re riding with such inspirational people, like Lawrence from (Norwood residential complex) Ravenswood who was riding tandem with Norwood Sports Coach Jonathan Green for the whole week.” Jeﬀ also spoke about the friendships he has made through completing multiple Norwood Challenges. Many of his fellow Challengers have learning disabilities and are supported by the charity itself.

“On every Challenge you make new friends and it’s a brilliant group atmosphere. One of the best things about Norwood Challenges is riding with the people the charity supports. The amazing effort these people put into the cycling is truly inspirational. Added to that the fact that you’re raising money for a charity that does such amazing work and it’s just such a layered, incredible experience.” If you want to donate to Jeff’s fundraising effort you can do so at: https://t.co/6Q62YEhgNK Norwood will soon be launching its programme of Challenges for 2018. Brand new Challenges including Fat Biking in Finland and The Sierra Nevada Trek (Spain) see the charity branching out even further. See the full programme here: https://cms.norwood.org.uk/ challenges/

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Langdon challah make

Buttons collected to represent the 1.5M Children killed during the Holocaust

The beautiful challot made

Get your hands kneading the dough!

Voices books about Holocaust Holocaust survivor Chaim Ferster’s ﬁrst Memorial lecture on survivors at Heathlands

Ralia Journo,Debbie Henderson, Zac Wreschner and Shmuel Jaﬀe from BJCFP School, Year1

Holocaust survivor Chaim Ferster’s ﬁrst Memorial lecture was held on Wednesday evening, at King David High School. The guest speaker was Dorit Novak, Director of the Yad Vashem, and other guests included the Bishop of Manchester David Walker, eight year old Benjy Solomon and his 13 year old brother Shuey.

Sam Gontarz signing his book with Dorit Novak

Chaim Ferster 92 year old Holocaust survivor

Zac Wreschner and Shmuel Jaﬀe with Buttons at BJCFP School

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16 JUDAISM

ASK THE RABBI Looking for answers? Send your question to asktherabbi@thejewishweekly.com When a “joke” is no laughing matter Dear Rabbi, A video that was going viral recently was of American Jewish comedian Larry David who made a very public joke about the Holocaust, creating this satirical image of him meeting a woman in a concentration camp. I was surprised about the public outrage. I didn’t find it especially funny but I didn’t find it particularly offensive either. Does Judaism have a position on drawing lines when it comes to humour? Sruli Dear Sruli, Larry David says what other people think. He is not politically correct and in that sense he is a man

09 NOVEMBER 2017

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after my own heart. However Judaism has very clear parameters on all kinds of speech, not least the laws of gossiping and tale-bearing. There’s a multi-billion dollar industry of gossip magazines, TV shows and websites. But just because it is socially acceptable doesn’t mean it is right. Legality and morality are not mutually exclusive but neither are they concordant. My mother lost a lot of her family in the camps. She herself was spared a similar fate on account of being one of the “hidden children” in Holland. How anyone can make light of one of the greatest atrocities known to mankind, beggars belief. Judaism maintains freedom of speech should never be unbridled. There has to be an element of restraint. Holocaust “jokes” are just morally unacceptable. David might think he could get away with

it because he’s a Jew. He neglects to recognise that it is precisely because he’s a Jew, his so-called humour is fodder for Holocaust deniers and an own goal in the battle against Anti-Semitism. The video has gone viral. Internet trolls are rearing their ugly heads using Larry as a stick with which to beat Jews all over social media. The argument goes that a black man can make jokes about black people just as a Jew can make jokes about Jews. Were one to make a joke about the other they would be deemed racist. No one dares to make light of disabled people, but I have watched wheelchair bound veterans or cerebral palsy suﬀerers make fun of themselves. There’s something endearing about being able to see the lighter side of one’s own life or identity. By that logic, a Holocaust survivor – not Larry David – might be able to get away with making jokes about the con-

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centration camps. But that’s just the point. No one ever did. It’s no laughing matter. Can you imagine a survivor of a terrorist attack in which others lost their lives, make light about getting blown up? Arguably, more disturbing than Larry’s grave mistake was the reaction from the audience. To laugh as they did only proves the danger of humour and how it can desensitise groups of people; this, in a day and age when Holocaust education is being strongly encouraged to counter the very ignorance and insensitivity that Larry unashamedly demonstrated. It occurs to me that he could benefit much from some of that same education. Meanwhile, we’ve got Ashley Blaker (Jewish). Who needs Larry David? (Goiyish) ‘Shidduch Crisis’ Dear Rabbi, I am a thirty-four year old girl, traditionally Jewish. I have been looking for Mister Right now for some time. I’ve never been married. I have a decent career and I like to think I have everything a boy could want. Why can’t I find a decent Jewish bloke? I’ve done the dating agency thing, some kosher speed-dating events, gone the matchmaker route and even tried the obvious internet sites. I either end up with someone twice my age who still wants to have kids, or some fly-by-night who is not serious about the long term. I would never consider marrying out but is this problem me or the system?

boys on their books. Invariably the guys will just go hunting in pubs, clubs and Jew-dos. All I can say to you is, don’t give up the chase. Keep looking. There’s someone for everyone out there. And guys – get out of the woodwork, oﬀ the computer and out onto the street. There are some wonderful Jewish girls waiting to meet you. A Question of Trust Dear Rabbi, I am having a moral dilemma. I was unfaithful in my marriage which I was truly repentant for. However, my mother found out and chose to tell my wife without consulting me ﬁrst. I am now not speaking to my mother, although my wife has chosen to forgive me and give me a second chance. Should I forgive her for this breach of trust and loyalty? Saul

Kerem

Dear Saul,

Dear Kerem,

I had to re-read your question several times. What a sanctimonious son-of-a-gun you are. Where to begin? You suggest you were repentant before your mother spilled the beans. How so? By telling G-d you’re sorry? What about your wife? Isn’t she the one you were unfaithful to? Granted your mother had no business interfering in your relationship and to be frank that rates right up there in cardinal sins in my book - mothers and mothers in law take note! But you’re sitting there wondering whether you should forgive your mother’s “breach of trust and loyalty.” Are you kidding me? You need a reality check! Take a leaf out of your forgiving wife’s book!

Why not go for the guy twice your age? It’s very economical! According to my calculation, if your ﬁrstborn in a son, you could celebrate both your kid’s Bar Mitzvah and your husband’s second Bar Mitzvah together. Seriously, this is an increasing problem, not just here in Anglo-Jewry but pretty much universally. It would seem that for every Jewish guy out there, there are at least ﬁve Jewish girls, so they’ve got the pick of the crop and tend to milk that for all it’s worth. There’s also the issue of guys simply not getting in touch with dating agencies because of whatever stigmas or taboos. So again, there are more girls than

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09 NOVEMBER 2017 Volume 30 No. 8

11 November 2017 Shabbat ends

22 Cheshvan 5778 London THE5.07pm JEWISH WEEKLY Jerusalem 5.20pm

JUDAISM 17

Parshat Chayei Sarah

Chayei Sarah Artscroll p.106 | Hertz p.80 | Soncino p.118

In loving memory of Chaya Rachel bat Moshe Ben-tzion

In loving memory of Chaya Rachel bat Moshe Ben-tzion “And the life of Sarah was one hundred years and twenty years and seven years; [these were] the years of the life of Sarah. And Sarah died in Kiryat Arba, which is Hebron, in the land of Cana’an, and Abraham came to eulogise Sarah and to bewail her” (Bereshit 23:1-2).

A Surprising Order by Rabbi Yoni Golker, Assistant Rabbi, St John's Wood United Synagogue “And Yitzchak brought her [Rivkah] to the tent of Sarah his mother, and he took Rivkah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. And Yitzchak was comforted for [the loss of] his mother” (Bereishit 24:67).

“I had ruined a good suit, and knew I would have a terrible cold in the morning. I could feel it coming on. But I had saved a life. I had a hot bath and got into bed but it still worried me. Would he be ok? Did he have family and friends to visit him?” “The next morning, as soon as I could, I set off

for the hospital. I wanted to find out how he was Sidrah Summary: Tazria-Metzorah

Tomb of Sarah in the Cave of Machpelah in Hebron

Sidrah Summary: Chayei Sarah

happened. Seeing Eliezer’s gifts to Rivkah, her 1st Aliya – Bereishit 23:1-16 years and twenty years and seven years; [these were] the years “And the life(Kohen) of Sarah was one hundred brother Lavan runs out to greet him and welcomes ofSarah the life dies of Sarah. Sarah in Kiryat which is Hebron, in the land of Cana'an, and Abraham agedAnd 127, in died Kiryat Arba.Arba, After him in. Eliezer introduces himself and recounts the came to eulogise Sarah and to negotiates bewail her” with (Bereshit eulogising Sarah, Avraham the 23:1-2). story of his journey. He asks permission to take head of the local Hittites, Efron, in order to Rivkah as a wife for Yitzchak. Lavan and Betuel purchase a burial plot for Sarah, Ma’arat (Cave agree. of) Hamachpela. They agree a price of 400 silver shekels. 5th Aliya (Chamishi) – 24:53-67 Question: what was the name of Efron’s father Eliezer gives more jewellery, as well as gold and (23:8)? Answer on bottom of next page. silver vessels, to Rivkah. He gives her family delicious fruit (Rashi). They eat and drink together, 2nd Aliya (Levi) – 23:17-24:9 and Eliezer stays overnight. Lavan and his mother Avraham buries Sarah. Avraham asks his servant now ask for Rivkah to stay with them longer (understood to be) Eliezer to seek a wife for his before leaving. Eliezer is insistent and Rivkah son Yitzchak, making him take an oath only to agrees to go immediately. Rivkah meets Yitzchak select a girl from his birth town, Charan, rather in the Negev, where he brings her into his mother than from Cana’an. Avraham also insists that Sarah’s tent (see p.3 article). Yitzchak’s future bride must agree to leave her Point to Consider: Why is Betuel absent from the home to come to the Land of Cana’an (later narrative in the morning? (see Rashi to 24:55) Israel), rather than Yitzchak going to live in Charan. 6th Aliya (Shishi) – 25:1-11 Avraham marries Ketura, whom the Midrash 3rd Aliya (Shlishi) – 24:10-26 identifies as Hagar. Their descendants are listed. Eliezer sets out on his journey, with ten camels Avraham dies, aged 175. He is buried by Yitzchak and presents from Avraham. Towards the evening, and Yishmael, also in Ma’arat Hamachpela. as Eliezer nears his destination, he rests the camels. He prays to G-d to show him a clear sign 7th Aliya (Shevi’i) – 25:12-18 of the identity of Yitzchak’s future bride – the Yishmael’s descendants are listed. He dies, aged young lady who would offer water to Eliezer and 137. the camels. As he finishes his prayer, Rivkah appears, with a jug on her shoulder, from which Haftarah she gives Eliezer to drink. She then draws water This section of the Book of Melachim relates the for all of the camels to drink (see p.5 article). attempt by Adoniyah, the older son of King Eliezer gives her jewellery and asks her who she David, to establish himself as David’s potential is. Rivkah relates that he she is the daughter of successor. Queen Batsheva and Natan the Betuel, Avraham’s nephew. She grants Eliezer his Prophet manage to foil this plot, by warning King request for a place to sleep. David, who reasserts his younger son Shlomo’s (Solomon) right to succeed him. 4th Aliya (Revi’i) – 24:27-52

This verse relates Yitzchak’s betrothal to Rivkah, a central focus of this week’s sidrah. A close look at the order of ‘events’, as related 1st Aliya (Kohen) – Vayikra 12:1-23in the verse, raises a question. Yitzchak After childbirth, a lady wouldfirst waitmarried severalRivkah, weeks and only afterwards he loved her. This seems to before bringing an elevation offering (olah) and a run contrary to a common perception that one is sin offering (chatat). This completed her post-birth first supposed to ‘fall in love’ and then get purification process. Why does the Torah reverse married afterwards. God told Moshe and Aharon that someone who the expected order? had the appearance of a particular type of skin disease (tzara’at) would have to show the white Rabbi Aryeh Carmell (d. 2006) describes the blemish to a Kohen. The Kohen would evaluate following vignette, as told to him by a City and decide if the affliction was clearly tzara’at, lawyer: “It was past midnight and I had been thus rendering the person (tameh).I Ifwas the working tirelessly on animpure assignment. case was unclear, the Kohen would quarantine walking to my hotel on the other side of the river. the in a house for seven after which Theperson night was dark and foggy. days, As I approached the re-inspect theman afflicted area and theKohen bridge,would I noticed another walking along declare whether tameh thought, or tahor the river bank. the Not person giving was him much I walked on, rushing to get to bed. Then the man (pure). disappeared”. Question: what were the three types of blemish

called? (13:2) Answer on bottom of page 6. “I heard a splash”. “Help! Help!” the man 2nd Aliya (Levi) – 13:24-39 shouted. “Oh no, I thought, he’stofallen in...”from a It was also possible for tzara’at develop

burn. Tzara’at could erupt on the scalp or on the “I ran back under theof hair. bridge, onto the beard area, causing a loss embankment, and waded into the river, 3rd Aliya (Shlishi) – 13:40-54 managing to grab him and drag him up on to Athe slightly different form of tzara’at detailed, embankment. I shouted at a iscouple of which caused more of hair. A passers-by toacall an substantial ambulance.loss A taxi came metzora who with first, so (one we got in has and been I toldcontaminated the driver to drive tzara’at) was senthospital. outside of the camp and to to the nearest I waited until thehad man tear garments p4 article). Tzara’at was his/her admitted, told the (see doctors what happened, could also infect clothing. A suspected garment and got a taxi back to my hotel”. was quarantined before the Kohen made a decision about whether it was tameh. If it was declared tameh, the garment was burnt. 4th Aliya (Revi’i) – 13:55-14:20 The Torah of details the process through which a In memory Yocheved bat Berl Dov metzora purified himself/herself after the period of isolation and the healing of the affliction. This involved a Kohen taking two birds, cedar wood, a crimson thread and hyssop. The Kohen would slaughter one of the birds and – using the wood, thread and hyssop together in a bundle – sprinkle In of Avraham Yehoshua its memory blood seven times ben on the metzora. The

Eliezer thanks G-d for answering his prayers. Rivkah runs home to tell her family what has

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feeling. Maybe I could help?”

metzora also bringinthree offerings “Why was would I so interested this animal man? In this and three meal offerings. great city there are many other people who get intototrouble, whose not really Point Consider: whatplight is thedoes significance of the touch Then crimson it dawnedthread on me.and Firsthyssop? you give,(see cedarme. wood, then youtocare. Rashi 14:4) I had risked my life. I had given something of myself to that man. Now my love 5th Aliya (Chamishi) – 14:21-32 and care grew for him. That’s how it goes. First A metzora who could not afford three animal we give, then we come to love”. offerings could instead bring one animal offering, one meal offering and two birds. This story sheds light on our verse. In Hebrew, 6th Aliya (Shishi) – 14:33-15:15 the word for love is hbha (ahava) and the root alsoisaffected The house owner ofTzara’at this word bh (hav),houses. which means to give. wouldEliyahu report the suspicious signsexplains to a Kohen. Rabbi Dessler (d. 1953) thatThe house would evacuated beforeone the loves. Kohen’s the more one be gives, the more Yitzchak’s experience brings outgreen this message; arrival. If the Kohen saw a deep or deep red his love for Rivkah greworder and grew throughout ‘affliction’, he would the house to be their lives together; their was only quarantined for a week. Hewedding would then re-inspect the thebeginning. house. If the affliction had spread, the infected stones would be removed and replaced. If the affliction nevertheless returned, the house would be demolished. However, if replacing the stones solved the problem, the Kohen would declare the house tahor (pure). The Torah lists specific discharges that would cause a man to be considered tameh, and details the purification procedure. 7th Aliya (Shevi’i) – 15:16-33 A similar set of laws is listed for a lady who has specific discharges, as well as the laws of niddah (menstruation), which form the basis of the laws of family purity. Haftarah From the Book of Melachim (Kings II), the haftarah takes places upon the background of the long 3 siege and ensuing famine of the Shomron area (Samria) by the King of Aram. Four metzora’im were put outside the city gates because of their affliction. They discovered and reported that the Arameans had actually left their camp, which allowed the Jews to plunder the camp and thus end their famine.

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or finding them work so that they will not become impoverished to the point that they have to ask others for charity.

loan, entering into partnership with them, of the giver indicates the importance attached to giving tzedaka. or finding them work so that willtonot In some Jewish communities therethey used be become custom impoverished to the pointsitting that a beautiful whereby anyone 18 JUDAISM NOVEMBER 2017 THE JEWISH WEEKLY II. The next level is one who gives charity to the shiva forhave a deceased relative would receive In some Jewish 09 communities there used to be they to ask others for charity. poor without knowing the recipient and two boxes, one filled with money and the other a beautiful custom whereby anyone sitting without the recipient knowing who the donor empty. A rich mourner would the empty The next level is–one who givesfillcharity to the shiva for a deceased relative would receive Bein Adam Lechaveiro Part 16: Tzedaka V –Lechaveiro Practicalities Bein Adam Part 16:II.Tzedaka V Practicalities is. This is an example of a mitzvah ‘done one,poor whilstwithout a poor mourner would empty theand full two boxes, one filled with money and the other knowing the recipient byfor Rabbi Daniel Community Park United Synagogue by Rabbi Daniel Fine, Community Rabbi, Stanmore Canons Park United Synagogue its&own sake’ Fine, i.e. altruistically. ThisRabbi, type ofStanmore one.without The& Canons boxes would be sent back to the the recipient knowing who the donor giving was exemplified by a secret chamber community offices, either both full or both empty. A rich mourner would fill the empty is. This is an example of a mitzvah ‘done one, whilst a poor mourner would empty the full in the Temple (see Mishnah Shekalim 5:6). empty, but only the executive official would for itsnext ownlevel sake’ altruistically. This type of one. The boxes would be sent back to the Shulchan (Code The is i.e. giving hand of the The next righteous make there The Shulchan Aruch (Code V. The level would isThe giving intodonations the Aruch hand of the V. know what had happened ininto thethe interim. giving was exemplified by a secret chamber poor person before they have asked for a of Jewish Law, written 1563) discreetly and poor people would derive their community offices, either both full or both poor person before they have asked for a of Jewish Law, written 1563) donation. thatGiving tzedaka (charity) in the Temple (see Mishnah Shekalim 5:6). empty, but only the executive official would livelihood from itwrites in secret. to a charity donation. writes that tzedaka (charity) the power elicit fund is a similar has modern-day exampleto of this. The righteous would make donations there know what had happened in the interim. has the power to elicit next level is giving after being asked by mercy, enable giving after beingtoasked by VI. The Divine mercy, to enable VI. The next level isDivine discreetly and poor people would derive their the pauper. III. the Thepauper. next level isone’s an instance when prayers to the be giver more one’s prayers to be more livelihood from it in secret. Giving to a charity knows the recipient, but and the recipient does effective to protect the effective and to protect the fund is a similar example this. next level modern-day is giving less than ofwhat not know who the giver is. Talmud VII. The next level is giving lessThe than what VII. The

Bein Adam Lechaveiro Part 16: Tzedaka V – Practicalities by Rabbi Daniel Fine, Community Rabbi, Stanmore & Canons Park United Synagogue

Jewish people.

The Shulchan Aruch (YD 249:6-13) details the eight levels of giving tzedaka in descending order, based on the codification of the Rambam (Maimonides d. 1204): I. The highest level is a person who supports someone else, such as by giving them a loan, entering into partnership with them, or finding them work so that they will not become impoverished to the point that they have to ask others for charity. II. The next level is one who gives charity to the poor without knowing the recipient and without the recipient knowing who the donor is. This is an example of a mitzvah ‘done for its own sake’ i.e. altruistically. This type of giving was exemplified by a secret chamber in the Temple (see Mishnah Shekalim 5:6). The righteous would make donations there discreetly and poor people would derive their livelihood from it in secret. Giving to a charity fund is a similar modern-day example of this.

Jewish people. is appropriate, but with a pleasant reports that some of the great would is appropriate, but with Sages a pleasant III. countenance. The next level is an instance when the giver go in secret and throw money into the countenance. Thedoorways ShulchanofAruch (YD 249:6-13) details the knows the recipient, but the recipient does the poor. VIII. not The next levelthe is giving who eight levels of giving in person descending know who giver the is. person The Talmud VIII. The next level istzedaka giving the who has asked, but with a sad countenance. order, on the codification of the Rambam IV. has Thebased next level is if the recipient knows from asked, but with a sad countenance. reports that some of the great Sages would (Maimonides d. 1204): whom he/she received charity, but the donor go in secret and throw money into the does not know the recipient. Again, the The very fact that we differentiate between doorways of the poor. I. The highest level is a person who supports The very fact that we differentiate between Talmud cites great Sages who would bundle different acts of giving and different mindsets someone such as by givingover them a different of giving different mindsets coins acts in aelse, sheet and and hang them their of the recipient importance attached IV.the Thegiver next indicates level is if the knows from loan, entering into would partnership withtake them, of the giver indicates the importance attached shoulders; the poor come and the to giving tzedaka. whom he/she received charity, but the donor or finding thembeing workembarrassed. so that they will not to giving tzedaka. money without become impoverished to the point that does not know the recipient. Again, the In some Jewish communities there used to be they have to ask others for charity. Talmud cites great Sages who would bundle InIn some Jewish communities memory of Reuven ben Yehudathere Leivishused to be a beautiful custom whereby anyone sitting 4 coins in a sheet and hang them over their aII. beautiful custom The next level is onewhereby who givesanyone charity tositting the shiva for a deceased relative would receive shoulders; the poor would come and take the shiva for a deceased relative would receive poor without knowing the recipient and two boxes, one filled with money and the other money without being embarrassed. two without boxes, the onerecipient filled with money and other empty. knowing who thethe donor A rich mourner would fill the empty is. This is anmourner example would of a mitzvah empty. A rich fill the‘done empty one, whilst a poor mourner would empty the full its own sake’mourner i.e. altruistically. This type one,for whilst a poor would empty theoffull one. The boxes would be sent back to the In memory of Reuven ben Yehuda Leivish exemplified by asent secret chamber one.giving The was boxes would be back to the community offices, either both full or both In memory Reuven ben Yehuda Leivish in the Temple (see Mishnah Shekalim 5:6). community offices, either both full or both empty, but ofonly the executive official would The righteous make donations empty, but only would the executive official there would know what had happened in the interim. discreetly and poor people would derive their know what had happened in the interim. livelihood from it in secret. Giving to a charity Educating about Kindness, with Kindness fund is a similar modern-day example of this. by Rebbetzen Lisa Levene, Belmont United Synagogue, participant in the Ma'ayan

Chazan Yossi Saunders

III. The next level is an instance when the giver knows the recipient, but the recipient does not know who the giver is. The Talmud reports that some of the great Sages would go in secret and throw money into the doorways of the poor.

IV. The next level is if the recipient knows from whom he/she received charity, but the donor does not know the recipient. Again, the Talmud cites great Sages who would bundle coins in a sheet and hang them over their shoulders; the poor would come and take the money without being embarrassed.

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programme Educating with kindness is a principle that many educators strive to employ. Patty O’Grady PhD of the University of Tampa, an expert in transformational education, states that: “Children and adolescents do not learn kindness by only thinking about it and talking about it. Kindness is best learned by feeling it, so it can be reproduced”. This week’s sidrah contains a wonderful display of ‘kindness by example’. After the death of 4 Sarah, Avraham enlisted his trusted servant 4 Eliezer to find a wife for his 40 year old son Yitzchak. We read the story of how Rivkah was selected as a suitable wife for Yitzchak thanks to her unprompted offer of water to Eliezer’s camels:

choosing which one to give first and leaving the others to wait. Instead, she kept running to the well, drawing water, and pouring the water into the trough, so that all the camels could drink at once. This was physically a much more demanding way to give the camels water, but one that took their needs into account. Such kindness and respect for the “other” lies at the heart of a successful educator. Of course, a teacher needs to have knowledge. Yet the success of that knowledge not just being communicated, but also being absorbed, demands kindness, respect of the student and looking beyond one’s self, to give according to their needs with a full heart. A selfless approach provides a powerful lesson to students, one that no words, no homework, or detention ever could.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American lecturer and poet so eloquently said in the 1800’s: “the "And she [Rivkah] said: ‘drink’… and she hurried secret in education lies in respecting the student”; and lowered the pitcher… and she rushed and this is a lesson that Rivkah teaches and poured the water into the trough, and ran back to personifies in this week’s sidrah. the well to draw [water] for all the camels" (Bereishit 24:18-20). The Chief Rabbi's Maayan Programme is training ten women as community educators Here was a girl who, amidst a culture of greed, with expertise in Taharat Hamishpacha. self-interest and materialism, had learned to They will graduate in Spring 2018. become a giving, selfless individual. She continued to lower her pail, over and over again, until she was satisfied that Eliezer and all ten camels had quenched their thirst.

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Through Rivkah’s actions, we can also learn a key element about true chessed (kindness). Rivkah did not wait to be asked and merely do what was required; rather she went above and beyond, she saw a need and she met it – of her own volition. In fact, the Kedushat Levi (the Chassidic master Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, d. 1809) suggests that Rivkah made the conscious decision not to give the camels water one by one, for that would have involved her

memory of Devorah Bat Avraham InInmemory of Devorah Bat Avraham

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Parshat Chayei Sarah From Eliezer we learn, G-d helps those who live their entire life in order to help others. Our sages teach, Gadol Sichatam Shel Avdei

Tehillim Psalm 28 Whilst a person is alive, he has all the days of his life to earn G-d’s mercy before his trial in the afterlife. However, once he is in the grave, he has lost the opportunity to perform more mitzvot, and must rely on what was earned during his brief sojourn in this world. King David pleads to Hashem not to ‘be deaf to me, for if you should be silent, to me then I would be likened to those who descend to the grave.’ He is asking Hashem to help him to resist the alluring ways of sinful people. ‘Or lerasha, or lishcheino,woe to a wicked person, woe to his neighbour,’ says the famous saying from Ethics of the Fathers. One must always be aware of the dangers of hanging around with the wrong crowd, and the psalmist asks Hashem for assistance in remaining a righteous Jew. King David goes on to describe how people speak with ‘ peace to their companions,’ but in reality have ‘evil in their hearts.’ We must always be wary of people pretending to be nice but really seeking our harm. The last verse of this Psalm is one of the most famous in the whole of Tehillim. ‘Hoishea et amecha, uvarech et nachalatecha, ureim vnateim ad olam. These words are

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Avot Betorotam Shel Banim – the everyday mundane conversation of the servants of the founders of our faith, is of greater relevance to

us than the formal instruction that follows. They are referring to Eliezer, sent by Avraham Avinu to Mesopotamia, to find a wife for Yitzchak. This is featured in the longest chapter of the whole book of Bereishit – Chapter 24. In 67 long verses, we are told about Eliezer’s thoughts, his plans for the test at the well side, how he executed it. It’s all very expansive. However, later on in the Torah, when we are given the specific do’s and don’ts of Jewish law, then everything is very concise. So what we find here is that from a person who is not a member of our faith, we learn so much about our lives. ‘So what we find here is that from a person who is not a member of our faith, we learn so much about our lives’ Now if, let’s say, in a classroom at school, the children will be performing a play about this week’s Parasha, and a kid arrives home and he announces to his family – I’m going to be Eliezer! I think that everybody will be really chuffed, because that certainly would be the key role. Interestingly however, let’s have a look at the number of times in which people’s names are mentioned in the Parasha. Avraham’s name is mentioned on no less

This week’s Tehillim is for a refuah shelama for Toibe Zlata bat Tsivia well known to frequent shul goers, especially shuls that struggle for a minyan, as this pasuk is the one used to count numbers for a minyan, as it has 10 words. It is a big zechus to be one of the ﬁrst ten men in a minyan, as your presence there enables kadish and kedusha to be said as well as the ability to lein. As we head into a long winter, with memories of the High Holidays and Succot fast fading away into the distance, perhaps our early arrival in shul and more determined focus in our prayers can be something we work on through till Pesach.

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than 37 occasions; Yitzchak’s – 13; Rivkah – 12, Sarah – 9; Ephron – 9; Bethuel – 4; Lavan – 3; and Eliezer – 0. His name actually doesn’t appear. He is the main character but he either referred to as Ha’eved – the servant or Ha’ish – the man. I think that this presents to us a very profound message. We have internalised his values, we have taken on his message, he is there as that role model in that longest chapter but it’s not his name that counts, it’s what he taught the world that matters. ‘Their names might not be in neon lights, but they are our most outstanding characters’ In similar fashion, the great heroes and heroines of this world are mainly those men and women who behind the scenes are great family people, who contribute to their community. Their names might not be in neon lights, but they are our most outstanding characters. They are the Eliezer’s and his name says it all. Eliezer – my G-d is my help. The almighty certainly helps those, who live an entire life in order to help others. Shabbat Shalom.

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Should I stay or should I go now? BY WILLIAM SUSMAN MRICS

So, when is the optimum time to sell your property? Will interest rates go up more? Should I sell now, quick before they get too high? Are prices still rising – should I wait? Should I invest my spare cash in a buy-to-let property? Should I help my kids to get on the property ladder? Just like my mother, there are too many questions in the property market at present with conﬂicting views. So while seated in the local coffee shop escaping the hustle and bustle of the oﬃce trying to clear my head for a few minutes I am struck by the conversations around. There is an old vendor chatting to one of my prospective vendors and the heated debate is very interesting as of course they are both right! Having just sold earlier this year, Morris is trying to persuade Monty that he is elated to have downsized and got top shekels on his house. Monty of course feels he is shrewder, the time to sell is not now as property prices are still rising – albeit a bit slower, but then as he proudly exclaims, so is he a bit slower. All the more reason to sell now Morris declares. This banter puts a smile on my face until I am spotted and my few minutes of calm is now threatened. Sliding down into my seat a little more and burying myself behind my iPad Pro I hope they decide that I am otherwise engaged. However the peace is not to last as they request (demand?) that I join them and settle the dispute.

This is worse than the ‘are you sure my bum doesn’t look big in this’ question from your wife just as you leave the house, and less challenging that the what came ﬁrst conundrum of the chicken or the egg! So taking my double shot, extra hot, harmless, skinny, grande, soy, caramel macchiato (I am a simple guy) I sidle over to Morris and Monty.

us “overpay” just like we persuade our buyers to do. So good news for all property owners and Monty could be considered correct on paper as in October UK house prices did indeed edge up to a three month high. Prices rose by 0.2% over the month bringing annual house price growth now to 2.5%. Theoretically Morris should be correct as Brexit uncertainty and other pressures

hands of the major house builders via their “help to buy” programme. The scheme works by giving ﬁrst time buyers an interest free loan up to 20% of the value of a new build property. Most of the money has gone straight into the pockets of the housebuilders and due to continued shortages of property, due to builders “land banking” all that has really happened is that prices of these properties have been pushed

So when is the right time? Life throws us many challenges all through; when should I propose? can I aﬀord children – do we ever? Property transactions are likely to the biggest ‘deals’ ﬁnancially that we will conduct and of course, we all want to maximise on this. Usually we want to sell for the highest price and buy for the lowest price. This is not usually possible particularly when we are dealing with our own home as emotions take over and it is these emotions that make

on household incomes have hit conﬁdence which has led to some buyers sitting tight. Other buyers have come into the market and then calculated the costs associated with moving, particularly stamp duty, and then stayed put and bought new kitchens and bathrooms instead! So with demand dropping why have we seen prices still increasing? This is because estate agents are experiencing close to record low levels of stock and when a suitable family house comes on the books emotions take over and before we know it someone has “overpaid”! As stock levels are so low there is limited choice for those wanting to move up the ladder and this in turn means homes are not being made available for ﬁrst time buyers. So, in come the government and throw another £10bn into the

up and the gap between a “second hand” property and a new build has increased. That gap is currently 15% and heading to the 20% level that will swallow up all the cash offered by the government. One of the main ideas of the scheme was to enable first time buyers to be able to get better rates from borrowers as they would only need to borrow 75% and not 90%. Surely better to encourage the lenders to be more flexible. Also to be considered is what happens in five years when the government wants interest payments as the interest free period runs out. The Bank of England raised the base rate last week for the first time in 10 years to 0.5% from 0.25%, it was probably the country’s worst kept secret and is unlikely to have much impact on the market. Only a minority of mortgages (40%) are

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on variable rates so this rate rise would only mean a £20 a month rise on a typical £150,000 mortgage. We also have short memories as it was only in August of last year after the Brexit result that the base rate was dropped from 0.5% to 0.25%. For those that can’t get on the property ladder there is good news as for the first time since 2011 rents outside London have fallen. This is because buy-to-let investors have fled the London market and invested in the wider South East leading to a glut of available properties. For Morris & Monty what’s the right answer for them? The great answer is that there is no right or wrong answer. You must always do what is right for you in the circumstances having taken advice from your professional advisors. The recent years have shown a much more ‘Steady Eddie’ market with shallower peaks and troughs with the market becoming less seasonally based. In other words, Spring was THE time to sell, but with less stock coming to market and pretty much static demand levels anytime is a good time if you can find a strong buyer.

William Susman

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London Lions lash in 11 goals and Hendon hammer 8 in the cup BY DAVID SAFFER

Maccabi London Lions White enjoyed a goal fest as they thumped Faithfold A 11-0 in the Cyril Anekstein Cup. Teen sensation Sam Hammerton scored a hat-trick on his debut against the League One pacesetters in the second round clash. Conor Perl and Kiki Levin also struck a cup hat-trick for the Premier Division team. Josh Weiner and Will Beresford hit the other goals for Lions who were bizarrely indebted to keeper Jordan Shariﬁa for a penalty save with the game up for grabs at 1-0. “After we missed a penalty Lions kicked on and we didn’t,” said Faithfold player-manager Avi Markiewicz. “It’s a shame as we had a really good cup run last year and would have liked to go further, but now we concentrate on the league with a huge game against Blancos.” He added, “We had too many players unavailable but the commitment of some was more than just questionable. There are things going that are unavoidable but Sunday morning football should be a priority and today too many of my players chose things that were avoidable. We had ﬁve debutants

Straw Hats on the attack

and players playing out of position. Lions had good young players but with our full team I have no doubt who would have come out on top.” Hendon United Sports enjoyed an 8-1 rout against Fairlop FC. Moses Seitler (2), Zac Lewis (2), Dovi Fehler, Greg Corin, Rocky Spitzer and Avi Korman scored the Hendon goals. “There was a superb attitude from the first minute and I’m sure this will be the kick start to our season that we’ve needed,” said boss Greg Corin. In other clashes, Division Two co-leaders Bayern Mincha stunned Oakwood B with a 4-2 triumph. Adam Ellis claimed the goal scoring accolades with a hat-trick before Gavriel Nussbaum confirmed the result. Daniel Seligman and Daniel Selwyn scored for Oakwood. “It was a frustrating game,” said Oakwood manager Jason Stein. “When you’re 2-0 down after five minutes you give yourself so much to do and to our credit we quickly pulled it back, but when we were on top failed to take all the chances we created. “In the end, we feel Mincha mugged us although they took their chances brilliantly. They’re a

decent bunch of lads and in Ellis they’ve got a once in a generation talent.” Camden Park won 3-0 at FC Team with goals from David Khalastchi, Dan Orgel and Matt Pearlman. “The game went away from FC with the sending off of a defender after 15 minutes for a professional foul,” commented Camden boss Stirling Kay. “Pearlman then scored the goal of the game on his debut. It started in our box and ended with him lifting the ball over the oncoming keeper. After that the result was never in doubt. “In truth, the game was finished after the sending off and we never got out of third gear. But on a positive it enabled me to give a number of squad players ninety minutes. “This was our third win in a row, which can only give the squad more belief.” Premier pacesetters Redbridge Jewish Care A suffered a shock 2-1 win at home to Maccabi London Lions Blue in league action. Moments after Redbridge hit the crossbar, Jono Gaon opened the scoring for Lions. Richie Caplin equalised before Nick Barnett curled home an 80th minute winner from outside the box. “We conceded from a free-kick but didn’t let our heads drop and knew the game was there for the taking,” said jubilant Lions boss Samuel Marchant. “A few chances went begging and we need to be more clinical and ruthless, but a lovely left-foot bending strike from Barnett into the bottom corner got us over the line. “I said last week that when it comes together we’ll be a formidable force and today we showed just that. It came together and we were

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Eyes on the ball during Straw Hats versus Faithfold

rewarded for our efforts. “There is still a long way to go, and again, I say we are young, but this just shows and sends a message to what we are capable of.” Marchant added, “To go away to the unbeaten league leaders and perform how we did is a real credit to the squad. The first ten minutes was a bit slow but once we got in the game we dominated and created the best chances. “It feels so much better when you outplay opponents and get the three points rather than what we have seen at times during the season. It was another promising sign but we need to improve and make these performances consistent ones. If we do that, perform with the same attitude and mentality, the future looks good.” There were goals aplenty in Division One as Scrabble hammered bottom club L’Equipe 11-0 and moved into second spot with Los Blancos drawing 0-0 with Temple Fortune A. Craig Edwards (3), Zak McLeod (3), Ben Bowers (2), Lorian Madanes, Josh Pugh and Zac Summerfield hit the Scrabble goals. Skipper Pugh fired in from 30 yards after three minutes before a dipping drive from McLeod.

Edwards and Summerﬁeld also struck to put Scrabble 4-0 up at half time. Scrabble went on the attack in the second half to seal a best win of the season. “We set about L’Equipe with some fantastic football on a sloping pitch,” said Scrabble boss Ray Abrahams. “We were on ﬁre today, some of our football was top class but we took a long time to get going and I had to push the boys at half time to pick up the pace. But they responded brilliantly in the second half and to score eleven goals in the game was superb. “McLeod scored the goal of the day after picking the ball up just inside the L’Equipe half out wide,

Straw Hats Mandell shoots at goal

09 NOVEMBER 2017 he ran inside, beat two defenders and unleashed a dipping drive from distance to put us two up. “Overall we dominated midfield and were clinical in front of goal which we’ve threatened all season. Today it all came together, we kept it tight at the back and defended well.” Abrahams added, “Promotion could come down to goal difference and we’ve really boosted the goal difference with this result. “With Los Blancos going in our favour we are in the mix near the top of the table where we need to be at this stage of the season.” Catford & Bromley remain top of Division Two in spite of a shock 5-1 defeat at home to North London Raiders C. Josh Green (2), David Esterkin (2) and Alex Goodman scored for Raiders in a superb win. Straw Hat Pirates picked up a second league win with a 2-0 triumph at Faithfold B. Aron Gale struck both goals, including a 30-yard thunderbolt into the top corner, after cutting through the Faithfold defence courtesy of a couple of 1-2s with brother,

SPORTS 23

THE JEWISH WEEKLY Gideon. “It was a frustrating win because we deserved more,” said Elliot Cukier of Straw Hats. “Our rock solid defence shut down every attempt, midfield cut off opportunities and attack continually went close, but when opponents play one attacking player then everyone else behind the ball there is little that can be done. “We outclassed Faithfold in the way we played and the manner which we held ourselves on the pitch but now we look ahead. “The next month is full of difficult fixtures but we know where we are now and know how to play. We know what we need to do to win.” Bottom club Temple Fortune B came from behind to win their first game of the season 3-1 win at Hertswood Vale. Super sub Jordan Jay struck twice, the first with his first touch, prior to Gab Saul sealing the win. “After a freak own-goal we have to commend the players for remaining calm and continuing to play our game,” said Fortune boss Darren Zitren. “Our equaliser was a phenomenal

team goal. Adam Lenz won the ball on half way before flicking a back heel to Steven Black, who bombed forward before cutting inside and laying off a pass to Saul, who unleashed an absolute 25-yard left foot rocket into the top corner. “The second half was tight but then Jay scored. Black won the ball and delivered a perfect cross for Jay to send a neat volley back across the keeper into the corner of the net. Our final goal came at the death when Hertswood chased forward and Jay thundered the ball into the roof of the net.” “Make no mistake, there was a lot of pressure on us to deliver a result today and we delivered,” added Zitren. “We are off and running and I couldn’t be prouder. Our passion, patience, aggression and commitment won us the game today. “The points are fully deserved after a tough few weeks. We have kept saying it and we will continue to say, we have a very good team. We need to continue with this form into our next games.” Mill Hill Dons clash with Real Hendon was postponed due to an unplayable pitch.

Straw Hats are ready to strike

In other football news, Oakwood A lost to FC Vista in the FA County Cup. Sam Cantor and David Woolman scored for the Premier Division champions who return to league action on Sunday. “It was a tough game although I felt we matched them from the ﬁrst minute,” said Daniel Kristall. “We missed two great chances with the score goalless then at 2-1 down gave away two poor goals but even when we got another goal back hit the bar. “It is disappointing to go out of this cup after conceding very poor

goals but we will learn from the experience and use it ahead of big tests in the league.” Kristall added, “We didn’t make Vista work hard enough for their goals and know the areas that we must improve on. “This was always a bonus competition for us and it was good for some of our boys to get game time as we were able to use the squad and try a few diﬀerent things out. “We now focus on Camden where we will hope to bring back some key players and get back to winning ways.”

Dan’s Football Roundup Column Badminton fun for all ages BY DAN SILVER

Aguero, Sane, Stirling, de Bruyne, David Silva, Bernardo Silva. These are just some of the high quality calibre of attacking players Pep Guardiola gets to choose from week in week out to easily dismantle even the toughest of opponents, and I haven’t even mentioned their saviour Gabriel Jesus yet? Manchester City have started the season on flames and aren’t looking to stop their dominance over all the teams in the Premier League as they outclassed Arsenal to open up an eight-point lead at the top of the Premier League. Kevin de Bruyne’s driven finish and a Sergio Aguero penalty put City in command and, even though substitute Alexandre Lacazette pulled one back for Arsenal, Gabriel Jesus sealed victory for the home side from close range. The way City are playing at the moment reminds me of the way the Barcelona team of 2009 played, which is just the sort of set up Pep Guardiola was asked to bring in when first appointed as manager last year. The little one-two’s, starting the play from the back and attacking from there and the way the midfielders don’t even look like they want the ball, then suddenly they spring back to

life with a sublime goal or cheeky assist. An example of this is Kevin de Bruyne’s match winning goal against Chelsea. He waits lazily for the ball to be played into his feet and then once it is, he attacks with full ferocity as he plays a quick give and go with Aguero before slotting it beautifully into the side netting of the goal. Truly wonderful to watch. With one Manchester team succeeding, the other couldn’t follow up their noisy neighbours as they slumbered to a 1-0 defeat courtesy of an audacious headed finish by the man the red devils failed to sign in the summer, Alvaro Morata. For me after watching that game there was one clear thing to see. United made the wrong decision. Romelu Lukaku ,brought from Everton in a £90m deal after supposedly long-standing interest from his former club Chelsea, had a shocker of a game and never have I seen before a Manchester United striker have as poor as a first touch as he has. Losing the ball many times after trying to conjure up some sort of effort at an attempt in sight of goal, the 24 year old, was the worst player on that pitch for me and in contrast Morata’s movement, desire and match-winning goal meant he totally outshone the Belgian.

Other results include Everton’s first win under caretaker boss David Unsworth as Watford threw away a two-goal lead and Tom Cleverley missed an injury-time penalty for the visitors, Liverpool producing the perfect counter-attacking performance to thrash West Ham at the London Stadium and Spurs snatching a hard fought out victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday. But the tears in my eyes when I watched Match of the Day summed up Newcastle’s frustrating performance vs Bournemouth as they succumbed to an injury-time winner against Bournemouth at St James’s Park. Newcastle had most of the chances as Bournemouth’s former winger Matt Ritchie hit the post from distance while visiting keeper Asmir Begovic produced fine saves to deny Ritchie and Christian Atsu, and Dwight Gayle spurned another opportunity for the hosts. Although this loss may have dampened spirits in the camp, the Geordies will come back stronger than ever when they face Manchester United at Old Trafford after the international break.

BY DAVID SAFFER

Thirty badminton players participated in the Maccabi GB Community Badminton Tournament at Hendon Leisure Centre. The competition was the latest in a series of sports days to bring Jewish participants of all ages and abilities together to play a variety of sports. Players, aged 12 to 60, from beginner to intermediate and advanced categories took part. David Menachem, together with sons Ben and Sam, are

regular entrants. “This what Maccabi GB is all about, family,” said event manager Talia. “Sports days encourage everyone to come together and play a sport they enjoy in a social, positive and Jewish setting.” Gold medallists: Jonny Gould (U35 Beginner and Intermediate Singles); Joshua Epstein-Tasgal (U35 Advance Singles); Darren Reece (Over 35 Singles), Joseph Gavsey and Joel Winston (U35 Doubles); Stuart Turner and Brian Conn (Over 35 Doubles).

David Menachem, with sons Ben and Sam

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09 NOVEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Parshat Chayei Sarah MAZE

This parshah starts with a very sad event, Sarah passes away at 127 years old. Avraham, her husband, goes to buy a some land from Efron, the Cave of Machpela. Efron is very mean to him and gets him to pay a lot more money than the land is worth.

Can you show Rivka the way to Yitzchak through the maze? START

Yitzchak is now 40 years old. Avraham sends his servant Eliezer to find Yitzchak a wife. Eliezer travels to Charan and there he comes to a place with a well of water. Next to the well, there is young girl who is giving water to her camels. Eliezer sees her and then she offers to give his camels water too. He finds out that her name is Rivka. She invites him to her house. For him this is a sign that she must be a good wife for Yitzchak, as she is so kind! He goes to her house and meets her father Betu’el and her brother Lavan. They are not so kind however Betu’el lets her go to marry Yitzchak. Eliezer takes Rivka to Cana’an, where Yitzchak is, so that they can get married. Yitzchak and Rivka are very happy to be together. At the end of the parshah, we read that Avraham passes away at the age of 175 years old. He gets buried next to Sarah, in the Cave of Machpela in Chevron.

END

Arts and Crafts Wooden Water Well You will need • 1 Clean plastic or glass jar or tin can or the bottom of a 1.5 L water bottle. • Glue • Craft Sticks

Method 1. Glue trimmed craft sticks around the entire container, with the rounded parts on top. 2. Glue two craft sticks across from each other vertically on the inside of the container. 3. Glue one craft stick across the two vertical sticks. 4. Construct a roof using craft sticks and lay it onto the supporting craft stick. 5. Optional: Decorate your well with stickers or paint. 6. Optional: Try to make a real pulley system with a mini-bucket!

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09 NOVEMBER 2017

CUT OUT & KEEP Ingredients: • • • • • • •

KIDS 25

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

TO CREATE YOUR VERY OWN JEWISH WEEKLY RECIPE BOOK

fruit salad

2 bananas 1 pineapple 1 bunch of grapes 15 strawberries 2 oranges Mint leaves, for garnish Grape juice

Method: 1. Cut all the fruit into bite size pieces. 2. Toss fruit together. Refrigerate until serving. 3. Garnish with mint leaves (optional) and add a bit of grape juice to taste.

Did you know? November facts November starts on the same day of the week as February in common years, and March every year. November ends on the same day of the week as August every year. The Movember Foundation was founded in Australia in 2003 to raise funds for men’s health charities by growing moustaches in November.

Parker Brothers introduced the world to the Monopoly game on November 5, 1935. November comes from the Latin word “novem”, which means “nine”. November used to be the ninth month, before January and February were added.

The elections for president in America are held every four years on the first Tuesday after the 1st of November.

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In America, November is “Sweet Potato Awareness Month”.

26 KIDSâ&#x20AC;&#x192;

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09 NOVEMBER 2017

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28 YOUTH

09 NOVEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Parshat Chayei Sarah In a Nutshell Last week’s parshah ﬁnished with the Akeidat Yitzchak, when Avraham had to sacriﬁce Yitzchak but was stopped the last moment. This week, we read of the result of that: the satan, the bad angel, went to Sarah to tell her what happened to Yitzchak, her son. She thought that Yitzchak died, she got such

a shock that sadly she passed away. We then read how Avraham tries to purchase a portion of land to bury Sarah, this piece of land was a cave called the Me’arat Hamachpela. The owner of this land, Efron, tried to trick Avraham in order to get more money from him.

In the meantime, Yitzchak has grown up and is 40 years old. Avraham wants him to get married and sends Eliezer, his servant, to Charan to ﬁnd Yitzchak a wife. Eliezer travels to Charan and there, he sees a well. Around the well, people are drawing water for their animals. There is one girl called Rivka that pulls his

attention. She goes over to him and asks him whether he would like some water, and his camels too. This is such kindness, that Eliezer realises that this is the right wife for Yitzchak. Eliezer meets Rivka’s father Betu’el and her brother Lavan. Rivkah’s father gives permission for Rivkah to get married

to Yitzchak. Eliezer then travels with Rivkah to Cana’an, where Yitzchak is. They get married and are very happy together. The last part of the parshah tells us that Avraham passed away at the age of 175 years old. He gets buried next to Sarah, in the portion of land he purchased Me’arat Hamachpela.

5 ways to be a good friend 2

BE HONEST Your friend wants to know that you are honest and open. This doesn’t mean saying everything that comes to mind- that might be insulting! But most people ﬁnd it very important to know that they can trust and rely on a good friend.

APOLOGISE WHEN YOU HAVE MADE A MISTAKE

Of course you might make a mistake- If you say sorry and make up, the friendship can last.

KEEP YOUR PROMISES

Never make a promise you can’t keep. Keeping a promise means that you are trustworthy and that your friend can rely on your word.

GIVE SUPPORT

Be there for your friend when he or she goes through a hard time.

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5 BE RESPECTFUL

You may not always agree on everything with your friend. Respect the diﬀerences and respect his/her choices and opinions.

09 NOVEMBER 2017

YOUTH 29

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

News Bites HONG KONG ACTIVIST SENTENCED FOR TUNA SANDWICH ATTACK

PORT TALBOT HOSPITAL CATERERS IN £25M EUROMILLIONS WIN

Five catering staﬀ at Neath Port Talbot Hospital have handed in their notice after winning more than £25m on the National Lottery’s EuroMillions. The women each scooped more than £4m with a sixth member of the syndicate already retired. They have played for the past six years but one member, Louise

A pro-democracy activist in Hong Kong has been sentenced to three weeks in prison after he threw a tuna sandwich at the territory’s former leader CY Leung, it’s been reported. Forty-year-old Avery Ng Manyuen was found guilty on Tuesday of common assault by the West Kowloon Magistracy for the attack which took place last year,

Ward only joined in October 2016, and it was her numbers that won the jackpot. She admitted she had almost quit the syndicate. The group won £25,476,778.30 from the draw on 3 November - amounting to more than £4.2m each. The ﬁve colleagues still working at the hospital all decided to retire from work after learning of their win.

Kong’s acting Chief Inspector of Police Lau Wing-kwan instead, The Standard newspaper says. Mr Ng told the court that he had thrown the sandwich at Leung because he was looking “very smug”, but had been expecting him to catch it. Mr Ng, who does not have a prior criminal record, has already been released on bail pending an appeal.

AUSTRALIA COCKATOOS CHEW BILLION-DOLLAR BROADBAND

GERMAN POLICE FIND ‘WW2 BOMB’ WAS BIG COURGETTE

A German man feared a monster courgette he found in his garden was an unexploded World War Two bomb and called the police. The 5kg (11-pound) courgette had probably been thrown over a hedge into the 81 year old’s garden, police said. Luckily no evacuation was required in Bretten, a town near Karlsruhe in south-West Germany.

according to broadcaster RTHK. The court heard that Mr Ng, who is the chairman of the League of Social Democrats Political Party, ﬂung a sandwich at former Chief Executive CY Leung at a polling station on election day in September 2016. Mr Leung ducked what he later called a “stinky ﬁsh sandwich”, and the ballistic buttie hit Hong

Australia’s multimillion dollar broadband network is under attack - from cockatoos. The National Broadband Network (NBN) company said it has spent tens of thousands of dollars so far ﬁxing cables chewed by the birds. Australian broadband is already criticised for being slow. According to a recent report it ranks 50th in the world for internet speed. NBN estimates the bill will rise sharply as more damage is uncovered. In an attempt to improve Australia’s internet speed - currently lagging behind many developed countries at 11.1 megabits per

The 40cm (16-inch) vegetable - also known as zucchini - “really did look like a bomb”, police said. Once police had reassured him following the early morning callout, the pensioner disposed of the courgette himself. Many unexploded bombs dropped by the British RAF or US Air Force have been unearthed in Germany, usually during construction work.

second - a national telecommunications infrastructure project has been instigated and is due for completion in 2021. But engineers returning to sites have found spare cables chewed and frayed. The culprits are cockatoos, a type of parrot which normally eats fruit, nuts, wood and bark. NBN has had to replace power and ﬁbre cables at a cost of tens of thousands of dollars each time. So far, they say, they have spent $80,000 (£47,000). Eating cables “would have to be an acquired taste,” animal behaviourist Gisela Kaplan told Reuters. “It’s not their usual style.”

She suggested the colour or the position of the cables could have attracted the birds.

Dear Agony Aunt Mia,

KEEP CALM

Last week, I heard of the terrible attack that happened in Manhattan and besides for feeling sad, I felt like I wanted to do something. When I read the news, there are so many terrible things happening, how do I battle that, I am only 15? What can I do about it? Hannah

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.

It isn’t easy, but the first step to changing the world, is looking at yourself and trying to be a better you! All the best, Aunt Mia

AND ASK

AGONY AUNT MIA AND

you speak and act nicely, then you radiate love. And love is the right response to terrorism.

Dear Hannah, You are so right, there are so many sad things happening and we can feel very powerless as a result. But there are ways to deal with the news in a right way. We can’t change the whole world and we can’t ignore what happens either. What we are all capable of doing is looking at ourselves and seeing how we are towards others. Look at how you speak to your siblings, your parents, friends, neighbours, teachers, bus drivers etc. and everyone that you encounter. If

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30 YOUTH

09 NOVEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Q: How do you make an octopus laugh? A: With ten-tickles!

Q:How do you make a tissue dance? A: You put a little boogie in it. Q:What musical instrument is found in the bathroom?

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

A: A tuba toothpaste.

1. What kind of tree can you carry in your hand? Q: Why did the kid bring a ladder to school? A: Because he wanted to go to high school.

1. A palm

3. Silence

1.Tucan 2.Square Dance 3.Leftovers 4.Going in Circles 5.Day In Day Out 6.Count Dracula

Dingbats Answers THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

2. I’m a Riddle!!

3. What is so delicate that saying its name breaks it?

2. When you do know me about me, them I am deﬁnitely something. You will always search for me. But when you know me, I am nothing. Who am I?

09 NOVEMBER 2017

YOUTH 31

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Be Careful What You Wish For

PART 2 OF 5 TIMELY ASSISTANCE

BY CHAYA SANDLER

Recap: Toby has always known he was special, problem is no-one else does and even he gets a little stuck on how exactly he is special. But he is. Definitely. He’ll work out how -some day. Even though his efforts haven’t born fruit yet, he is certain every failure is one step closure to success. Greatness has to get tired and allow him to catch up some day. Is the school newspaper his big break? It doesn’t seem so. The sun slipped slowly over the horizon, but I jump out of bed eager to begin the day. I slip into my private car, the beautifully tailored suit gliding over the leather seats as my driver hands me a cup of freshly brewed coffee. No instant rubbish. Before I even get to my office I am swamped by lackeys and executives desperate to please, journalists beaming as they resent their latest scoops, the editor running to get my approval on the headlines before the print run begins. I stride through the office to the lift as my escorts struggle to keep up and my assistants scribble furious notes. At the top, my private secretary hands me the phone, “Scotland Yard on the phone Sir. They want to know what we have on the Jurnas theft last week.” “Tell them to wait and that if they want my info, they better let Robert have access to all the files he asked for. Confidential my foot. We are the press, the people, the truth. Hold all my calls for the moment.” Then the alarm clock rings and reality hits me over the head like a sledgehammer. That dream is a long way off now.

At the moment I’m working out of a glorified supplies cupboard with a bored, uninterested staff. Consisting of precisely Elliot and me. Ugh, I’ll never go down in history this way. I entered our “Office”. Elliot had a new haircut. And who was that sitting next to him. Hang on a minute...that wasn’t school uniform. “Elliot!” “They usually call me Charles,” said Dickens swivelling around,(where did he get a swivel chair from?!) “although my journalistic pseudonym was Boz.... Well don’t just stand there with your mouth hanging open. Say something, it’s very impolite you know.” “Uh, uh, uhhh...” “That isn’t a word young man.” “You’re, you’re... you... Charles Dickens!” “I happen to know my own name but I would be much obliged if you could enlighten me of yours.” “To, Toby.” “Totobee, interesting.” “What are you doing here?” “I was under the impression I was wanted, I certainly shan’t impose if-” “No, no wait, this is all wrong. You’re dead. For like hundreds of years.” “158 years actually.” “Elliot! What is going on?!” “Ya seemed kinda set on making this into some fancy shmancy thing. Ya seem kinda desperate

so I brought ya some help.” “Charles Dickens?!” “I used to run several newspapers and I started out as a journalist. As I said, I wrote as Boz, it came from Moses, don’t ask.” “I didn’t mean that, I mean what is he doing here?” “Who? Griff?” “No Dick- Griff?? Who’s Griff?” “Hello,” the other figure waved his hand and turned around, since he was on a plastic chair this proved slightly difficult and eventually he abandoned all attempts at dignity, picked the chair up and shuffled it round himself. He looked like a pirate. A loose white shirt with ruffles on, long curls tumbling onto his shoulders, a perfect tan and a wooden leg. “What is that?” “Griff’s a private investigator, I got‘im whilst he was undercover like, as a pirate, takin’ down a pirate gang ‘bout early 17’s.” “17’s?” “1700’s” I spluttered and managed to come up with a cross between a cough and a squeak. It sounded a bit like a sneeze. “You can time travel??!!” “Found it on the internet, seemed like cool blueprints so i like built a time machine and thought it were pretty cool.”

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“You just built a time machine?!” “Yeah.” Elliot shrugged, “no biggie” “No biggee, Elliot, you have just come up with the coolest thing ever!! We’re going to be famous! And Rich! Famous throughout all of time! And very rich, we could buy winning lottery tickets, make the best investments, the possibilities are-” “Neh.” “What, why?” “Sybil’s my time machine and I don’t want us to mess with any space time continuum, you’ve seen the films, you know what happens. If you want help with your paper no problem, anything else- neh.” I wasn’t sure whether I was more surprised by Elliot’s total lack of ambition or the fact that he had named his time machine Sybil. “Shall we begin?” asked Dickens. “I Guess?” Hope began to blossom, things couldn’t be better. Mrs Craggs was so impressed with this weeks edition that she actually smiled, a feat I didn’t think her capable of. “You can continue for now.” Yes! Today the school, tomorrow London and maybe next month, the world! Then the wall exploded. My bones slammed into the bricks and everything hurt. The place filled with smoke. A team of floating police officers surrounded our little office, “You’re under arrest. There was a blinding flash of darkness.... TO BE CONTINUED...

32 WOMENS

W oman of W orth ‫ֵֽא ׁ ֶשת ַֽחיִ ל ִמי יִ ְמ ָצא‬

Nicole Duke

When Nicole Duke moved to Edgware in 1984, she was keen to get to know the local Jewish community, so along with her husband, Malcolm decided to join Edgware United Synagogue. “We didn’t really know anyone in the area, so we wanted to get involved with the synagogue as a way to meet people and make new friends”. Now 33 years later, not only has she made many great friendships, but she has become a key member of the community through her voluntary work. She ﬁrst joined the Ladies Guild helping to organise kiddushim and events at the synagogue, and later became involved in the Burial Society as part of the Chevra Kadisha, which is an important and sacred role within the community. Nicole has now been involved with this for over 30 years, and has previously served as its chairperson. “I believe that being part of the Chevra Kadisha is a great honour. My parents used to do it, so it was quite normal for me, and something that I recognise that needs to be done”. Through her involvement with the Burial Society, she was instrumental in setting up an out

Mitzvah Day

09 NOVEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

of hours service, which has been running for the past 16 years. “When people are bereaved, they often need someone to help them and speak with. I am there at the end of the phone when the office is closed, every night from 5pm, until 9am the next morning, and am able help people during a very upsetting time”. For many years, Nicole has been solely responsible for manning the phones, but recently two other volunteers have started training so that they are able to relieve the workload. As welfare co-ordinator for Edgware Community Cares, she is responsible for the wellbeing of the community, and one area that she is particularly involved with helping are the older members of the congregation. “There are around 2,200 members at the shul, and a significant percentage of those are 70 and over, and it’s important to have services for this age group. Many older people can feel lonely, even those who have family around them, so we run a regular coffee morning called ‘Young at Heart’ where members can come and chat, laugh and just be with other people”. For the past 3 years, Nicole has been involved in both Mitzvah day and Shabbat UK at the synagogue. As part of Shabbat UK, she not only arranged Shabbat meals for 52 families who were unable to attend the event at shul, but also organised a Friday night dinner for pupils and parents at Rosh Pinah Primary School. Nicole is also part of a team that runs regular educational visits at the synagogue as part of Holocaust Memorial Day, which

encourages local non-Jewish schools to learn more about this tragic event. She has also now been involved as a member of the Board of Management for over 20 years, and served as Executive Vice Chair for six years, having recently relinquished her role in June. As the first female in the synagogue’s history, she was very proud to have been given this role. “It was a great honour, and it is great to see that Edgware were moving in the right direction when it comes to equality in the running on the synagogue, and hope that this is the first step to much more of this”. For Nicole, she believes that the work she does is just part of her make up, and she has always felt that it was important to be involved in the local community through volunteering. “I believe that first of all you help your family, then your community and then your neighbourhood, and through the work that I do, I try to help all three”. She helps her local neighbourhood through her work with a homeless charity in the Barnet area and regularly cooks meals for over 100 homeless people, and takes food, and other supplies to them on the streets. Through donations from synagogue members, she is able to supply necessities such as cleaning products, blankets and even underwear to help people living on the streets. Her hard work and contributions were recently recognised when she received the Barnet Volunteer of the Year Award 2016. In addition to her voluntary work, she also runs a successful business, ‘Welcome Assured’, which organises educational trips for Jewish children from communities in France to come to England and learn English. The programmes run throughout term time, as well as during the summer holidays. The students are placed with Jewish families within the community, and attend regular English lessons, as well as taking part in a cultural programme visiting many of the

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

NICOLE DUKE Preparing food for the homeless

sights within the capital. Nicole originally ran the business with her husband, but when he sadly passed away 4 years ago , she continued the company alone taking on responsibility for all aspects of running the business. Over the years, she has helped many children develop their English skills as well as make wonderful memories, and she is now pleased to be welcoming their children. “I often get people contacting me to say that they had such a good time when they were younger, that they always promised when they had children they would still send them on the same programme”. Although she is 68, Nicole has no intentions of slowing down. As well as her voluntary work and business, she also looks after her three young grandsons. “I love to be busy, and am not very good at relaxing. I have always been the same, and I enjoy being able to help others. If someone asks me to do something I will always say yes, then try and work out how I am going to do it afterwards, but I always get it done. I once said to a friend ‘I think I might be hyperactive’, and they joked that they didn’t ‘think’, they deﬁnitely ‘knew’, but that is how I have always been, so am not going to stop

now“. If she ever did get some spare time, she would love to get a chance to return to her art and calligraphy work.. “I have a background as an illuminator and used to create ketubot and other certificates. I would love to be able to do this again as I find it very relaxing and something I really enjoy it.” Volunteering is something Nicole finds very rewarding and she would encourage others who have the time to get involved in some way. “I always tell my friends who are thinking of retiring to try and set aside some time each week to do something to help the community. They are always amazed at how enjoyable it can be. I feel that I definitely get more out of the work I do, than I put in, and it is a great feeling to be able to help other people in some way, often when they really need some support and advice.” Maddy Cordel, a board member for Edgware Unites, has worked closely with Nicole on many events, and describes her as ‘the lynchpin of the shul’. She explains, “She does so many things for so many people, but it is always so understated, and she gets on with it, and gets it done. She is a true ‘balaboosta’.”

Baking Challah and preparing for Shabbat parcels

09 NOVEMBER 2017

WOMENS 33

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

VANESSA ABRAHAM – INNERLIGHT COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY Vanessa Abrahams is a Transpersonal Psychotherapist who offers a holistic approach to counselling and treatment through creating a balance between mind, body and soul, to help people deal with issues such as bereavement, addiction and depression. Having originally gained a BSc degree in Pharmacology, she spent nine years working within the Pharmaceutical industry as a medical rep before making the move to become a therapist in 2009. “I had always wanted to work in therapy, and it seemed like this was the right time to pursue this.” Vanessa started her training on a part-time basis at the Centre of Counselling and Psychotherapy, and qualified in 2016 and went on to set up her own business. The inspiration for the name of her business came about through the death of her father. “During my studies, my father unfortunately passed away, and I wanted to do something in his honour. His name was Mayer, which means ‘one who brings light’ so I wanted to include that in some way so called my company ‘Innerlight’.” Throughout her training, she volunteered as a counsellor for the Chabad Drugsline, working at the drop-in centre and also on the helpline, working closely with people suffering from addiction, which led to her interest in this area. She has also worked at Brent Bereavement Service, and In London Counselling, which offers short and long term psychotherapy, an organisation she continues to be involved with. Although the majority of her clients are based mainly in Hendon, Edgware and Little Venice, Vanessa is able to see people at other lo-

cations, at times to suit them. Often she is contacted through Facebook or her website by concerned family members, but Vanessa feels that it is important that anyone with an issue needs to make the first step themselves in seeking therapy. “Someone has to want to make that change, and needs to be on board with trying to overcome their issue, so I only take on clients who have contacted me directly and are open to therapy.” During an initial session with a new client, Vanessa will allow them to talk without interruption to allow them to share their thoughts and feelings. “Many people have been bottling things up for such a long time, that they just want to get it out, and share it. I let them talk to find out from them what they are feeling without any interruption.” At the second session, she will do a full assessment of the client, where she will discuss their background, and work out the best therapeutic approach. Vanessa recognises that every person responds differently to therapy, and tailor makes her treatment to fit. When it comes to the amount of sessions required, Vanessa allows the client to guide this to some extent. For most clients, she would recommend an initial course of six sessions, which is then reviewed. “Some clients want the flexibility of open-ended therapy, others may have a more fixed idea of how long they want to be in therapy for. Of-

ten the issue that they initially want to deal with is part of a larger problem, and there are other things below the surface that need to be addressed, and this can lead to a need for further sessions.” As well as one-to-one sessions, Vanessa also runs group meditation from her home in Edgware. She feels that this can be a good introduction to the benefits of therapy, and see how it could work for them. “Often people want to have therapy, but they do not know where to start, or are scared to take that first step. They worry that they may lose control, and come undone if they start to open up. Group therapy allows people to open up in a safe and confidential environment, and start to let down their defences.” Vanessa uses a series of different techniques and models to treat clients from role play, and visualisation to meditation, and believes that a holistic approach gives a better overall result. Within society, the idea of therapy has become far more recognised and accepted, but Vanessa feels that sometimes there can still be a bit of a taboo within some communities and cultures. Through her experience of working in both the Jewish and non-Jewish worlds, she recognises that many of the issues that her clients have are universal. “We all face the same issues no matter what our religion or background is, and people don’t always realise this, and often feel like they are the only one going through

it. Through therapy people begin to feel like they are not alone, and that they can do something to change their own situation.” Vanessa believes that therapy can be very beneficial for everyone as a way to discuss and process things that happen in their lives. “Life nowadays happens very quickly, and sometimes it can move so fast that there is not enough time to process experiences properly, and it may take a long time to deal with it on your own. Often people find that friends who may start off wanting to help, often lose interest after a short time, and expect you to just get on with it. By being able to share this with someone who is external to the situation, it is a way to discuss openly and freely some of the issues that may be affecting you.” Although a Vanessa had always wanted to be therapist, the direction that she has taken is quite different to the more traditional psychologist and psychiatrist approaches, and feels that transpersonal psychotherapy is much more suited to her own skills and interests. “I am really glad that by coming to my career later in life, I have a much more holistic approach which has allowed me to grow and develop. My course only allowed people over 27 years old to study on it, and encourages the importance of having life experience which is really important and encourages more empathy and better understanding of clients.” She feels that she not only helps and teaches her clients, but that to some extent they also help to teach her, and show her how to see things differently. Vanessa is looking to develop and grow her business, so that as well as the workshops, groups and one-to-one therapy she is able to offer residential retreats for small

groups in the future. She feels that by offering a varied programme of therapy, she will appeal to a wider range of people who may be unsure of the best approach for them. Being able to help people through some difficult parts of their lives, is what Vanessa feels is the most rewarding part of her job. “Seeing someone change and develop in a positive way can be a really beautiful experience. It empowers them to be able to face their challenges and make the right choices, and I feel very privileged to be a part of helping them make a difference to their lives.” Vanessa would like to offer Jewish Weekly readers a 10% discount off of 6 sessions or 20% off 12 sessions booked before 31st Dec. Please remember to quote Jewish Weekly when making the booking. To get in touch with Vanessa, please call 07882827625 or contact via her website – www.innerlightpsychotherapyandcounselling.co.uk

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

TIPS & TRICKS – NEWSPAPERS Jewish Weekly aims to source the most genius, time saving and useful hacks for you every week, so watch this space! Want to clear out some old newspapers, but not sure what to do with them? Here are some easy ways to re-purpose your paper and give it a new lease of life. • Clean windows – Using a scrunched up ball of newspaper and cleaning solution will give you sparkly, clean windows without any smears or streaks • Get fruity – If you have fruit that is not ripe, wrap it in newspaper and it will help speed up the process

• Freshen up your fridge – Line the bottom of your fruit and vegetable drawers with old newspapers to absorb any liquids or smells • Wrapping it up – Shabby chic is all the rage, so why not use old newspapers to make wrapping paper for gifts. You can always add a bow or ribbon to add to the effect. If you have any suggestions or there is something you want feedback on, please contact us on ofﬁce@thejewishweekly.com. Your question might be someone else’s solution!

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

34 FOOD

09 NOVEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

denise’s kitchen

modern jewish cookery with style

For more recipes and inspiration visit my website at: www.jewishcookery.com

ROASTED BEETROOT WITH MARINATED HALLOUMI CHEESE

This starter or light supper is easy to prepare and cook and is packed with a tasty zesty dressing. Personally I am not a great fan of cooked cheese, but Halloumi has a completely different texture and taste. Although it is a salty cheese once cooked it changes its taste and texture. It has a firm rubbery feel to it and is not too rich. Cooking beetroot with the skin on no longer prevents the vegetable from drying out but produces the most amazing flavour!

20 min Prep Time 70 min Cook Time 4 Servings

INGREDIENTS • • • •

500g raw beetroot – washed and trimmed – keep skin on 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley 250g x2 pack Halloumi cheese, cut into 16 slices (Charedi Dairies is Kosher)

Marinade • 4 tablespoons olive oil • Zest and Juice of 1 lemon • 1 garlic – peeled and ﬁnely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves • 1 red onion, peeled and ﬁnely chopped • Garnish • Freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

PREPARATION 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Preheat the oven to 200 C/ 400 F/ Gas mark 6. Place the beetroot on a tray lined with baking parchment paper. Drizzle with oil. Cover with foil. Bake for 1 ½ hours or until soft. Marinate the sliced cheese with olive oil, lemon, garlic, thyme and red onion while the beetroot is cooking. When the beetroot is cooked, leave to cool a little before removing the skins. Slice into thick pieces. Heat a large non stick frying pan or griddle pan with a tablespoon of oil. Gently lift the cheese from the marinade into the pan and sauté for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Stir the beetroot into the marinade and then arrange on to 4 plates. Place a layer of halloumi cheese on top of the beetroot.

To serve the stylish way: Spoon over any remaining marinade over the cooked cheese. Garnish with a sprinkling of freshly chopped thyme leaves and a dusting of black pepper.

PAREV AMARETTO SEMIFREDDO TIRAMISU

Tiramisu in Italian means ‘pick me up’ because of the caﬀeine content inside the recipe. As it is semi frozen (semi freddo) it needs to be made in advance so it a perfect dessert for all occasions. Flavoured with the Italian liqueur Amaretto, the recipe has a delicious almond ﬂavour.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

4 large eggs - separated 100g sugar, divided 500ml parev whipping cream 100ml Amaretto 12 sponge ﬁngers 3 tablespoons cocoa powder 3 tablespoons plain (parev) chocolate – grated • 150ml espresso or strong coﬀee cold Garnish • Cocoa powder – for dusting

30 min Prep Time 180 min Freezing Time 6-8 Servings

The Recipe for Romance. Cookery class & champagne dinner for 6 men & 6 women. Each week is a different age group and food theme. NOVEMBER Sun 12th Nov Sun 19th Nov Sun 26th Nov

7. 8. 9.

DECEMBER Sun 3rd Dec Sun 10th Dec Sun 17th Nov

AGE THEME 55-65 Gourmet Winter 45-55 Chanukah Treats 25-35 Sushi Night

Call Denise on 01923 836 456 denise@dateonaplate.com www.dateonaplate.com

PREPARATION 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

AGE THEME 30-40 Food Quiz & Dinner 50-60 Stylish Friday Night 45 -55 Impressive Italian

Line a 2 kg loaf tin with cling film. Whisk the egg yolks with 50g sugar until thick. Add the Amaretto and stir. In a separate bowl whisk the cream until light and fluffy and add to the Amaretto mixture. Whisk the egg whites in clean bowl, when stiff gradually add the sugar a tablespoon at a time. Carefully fold the egg whites into the Amaretto mixture. To arrange the tiramisu, put a layer of Amaretto mixture on the base of the loaf tin. Dip one biscuit at a time into the cold expresso. Place a layer of biscuits in the tin followed by some grated chocolate and cocoa powder. Top with some Amaretto mixture. Repeat the process once again. Lightly tap the tin against the work surface to remove any air bubbles. Freeze for about 3 hours so it is half frozen; it should be a little soft in the middle. Or remove from the freezer 20 minutes before serving. Turn out the tiramisu onto a serving plate and remove the cling film.

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

09 NOVEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

COMEDY & RECRUITMENT 35

A bad case of wind

COMEDY BY ED MOSS

It seems to me that that weather is somewhat unpredictable. It has taken me several (well at least more than I care to admit to) decades to reach this conclusion, but now I’m sticking with it. Many will, I am sure, remember the iconic Michael Fish BBC weather episode in 1987 where he didn’t seem to know his hurricane from his bad case of wind. It left us reeling, as granny, fitfully hanging on to her umbrella for dear life, unexpectedly and definitely against her wishes, flew off the end of the pier in typically Mary Poppins fashion, never to be seen again.

I appreciate that weather prediction is very much at the behest of, er, the weather. It can change its mind at the drop of a hat - although dropping one’s hat in a hurricane is perhaps not the wisest of things to do. I know I prattled on about this in a previous column, but I am really fascinated watching people on their mobile phones. It’s not that I go out of my way to watch, but when on, for example, a crowded tram (one that is not only so over-expensive to start with that it doesn’t compete cost-wise with self-driving to work, but one of the few in the world that charges a premium for peak-rate commuter

Perhaps this one episode might, to many, not appear to be a true litmus paper test for the weather. However, recently, we have all been encouraged to install hurricane shutters to our windows, anchor each of the four wheels of our cars to the ground and ban our children from using bicycles in the expectation that Hurricanes Desmond, Nigel, Chardonnay, Miley, or whatever they’re called, will sweep up uninvited to our door, each in rapid succession, causing mayhem and panic throughout the land and parts of Prestwich. Meanwhile, the hurricane shutter and car anchor suppliers were laughing all the way to the bank!

Recruitment

travel, but that’s all another story!), one can’t help but see what people look at on their phones. For a start, this business of wandering around like a zombie, nursing a mobile phone, thumb hovering continually over the screen. Pah! Utterly heinous. We all have at least one of those in our own families. A phone ‘numpty’, one who takes their phone around the house 24/7 – to the kitchen, to the bathroom, to the outside rubbish bins, while eating, while watching their favourite TV programme and so on. But it’s what they look at on their phones that utterly amazes me! Absolutely nothing! Instead of reading a newspaper they are constantly searching on their phone through a vapid panoply of absolute rubbish in a vague effort to actually try and find something to look at. Constantly scrolling through screen after screen of total hogwash, they follow wastrel ‘celebrities’ on social applications with stupid names ending in “r without the preceding “e” (the social applications and not the celebrities that is – sadly the ‘celebrities’ never seem to end), the majority of whom have absolutely nothing constructive or useful to say or add to society in general. She may indeed have 4million followers on Instagram, or he may have 3million followers on Twitter, but it doesn’t make either of them qualified life commentators. In fact most are absolutely clueless about anything apart from their own little bubble that they occupy while making infernal and irritating white noise commenting on things they neither have qualification nor the slightest real knowledge about. Ultimately, all they want to do is shift themselves into the limelight or shift mountains of their product. They say you can fool some of the people some of the time, but these ‘celebrities’ appear to be fooling all of the people all of the time! And what is it with people posting pictures of themselves – selfies – with either their tongues hanging out like a cat recovering from the vet’s anaesthetic, or pouting like a duck swimming on gravel? They look absolutely imbecilic. The book industry has be completely fooled. I’m as happy as the

next person to read a tome or two on my electronic pad thing, but I still do like the feel of turning a good, old-fashioned page. I received a book token for a birthday present and launched myself into a book store. For those of you too young to know what that is, it’s a place that not only stores but also sells books. However, you do seem to need a university degree to get your head around the offers. You can buy one and get a second one halfprice, but it confuses the heck out of the assistants when one of the one you wish to purchase is itself discounted. Then there are ones with £3 off. Where it really starts to get even more confusing is that some of these books are not necessarily in the aforementioned buy-one-get-one-half-price offer. So you can buy one at half price on its own, take one at full price and then chose yet another one at half-price, but not necessarily the first one you wanted, because that half-price offer is not available in the other half-price offer. I gave up, took out my copy of the current Jewish Weekly and went upstairs for a coffee instead. My daughter the teacher can sort it all out for me and organise the currant literary offers between the latest Harlan Coban, Clive Cussler and Lee Child books and joggle in a cook book of her own fancy (Jamie Oliver’s new book is RRP £26, but you can get it for halfprice at £13, although it’s not available at £13 in the buy-one-get-one half price offer as you have to buy one that’s not half price on its own; as I said, you go figure that one out as it’s all totally beyond my cognitive powers!).

Ed Moss THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

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