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ANTI-ISRAEL PROTESTS CONDEMNED 14 December 2017/ 26 Kislev 5778

BY ADAM MOSES

Political leaders and Jewish organistions have condemned anti-Israel and anti-Semitic protests around the world following United States recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and future relocation of the US embassy to the holy city. Across America over a dozen cities witnessed demonstrations that included anti-Zionist and Nazi slogans denying Israel’s right to exist. The Anti-Defamation League reported on the many rallies. In New York’s famous Times Square protestors reportedly chanted “Khaybar, oh Jews, the Army of Muhammad will return,” referencing a seventh-century slaughter of Jews in Saudi Arabia An Al-Awda speaker reportedly told protesters, “They (Jews) don’t even bother hiding who they are anymore... They are the heart of

@TheJewishWeekly 033

darkness. They are the heart of oppression. They are the torch bearers of white and Zionist supremacy....” In Los Angeles, outside the Federal Building, reported offensive chants included “F…. Jew” when pro-Israel supporters backing Trump approached a demonstration. And in Detroit, anti-Israel demonstrators burnt an Israeli flag. Protests also took place in Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Montreal, San Francisco, Sacramento Salt Lake City, Sarasota, Toronto and Washington D.C. In Israel, a missile was fired towards Ashkelon beach last night as the wave of attacks from Gaza continued. The missile landed in an open area, causing no injuries or damage. In response, the IDF targeted a Hamas military compound in the southern Gaza Strip. A total of 12 missiles have been

SCHOOLS CELEBRATE CHANUKAH!

PHOTO CREDIT: LAWRENCE PURCELL King David Primary School pupils proudly showing off their Menorahs

fired at Israel from Gaza in the last week, the highest concentration since the summer of 2014. The first attack in the wake of Trump’s announcement came in

Jerusalem when an Israeli security guard was seriously injured after being stabbed by a Palestinian close to the central bus terminal. Israel’s Channel 10 news showed

CCTV footage of the incident. Over 300 Palestinians were injured, and at least two killed, during CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

PARSHAT MIKETZ SHABBAT CHANUKAH

SHABBAT:

14 December 2017/ 26 Kislev 5778

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ANTI-ISRAEL PROTESTS CONDEMNED 14 December 2017/ 26 Kislev 5778

BY ADAM MOSES

Political leaders and Jewish organistions have condemned anti-Israel and anti-Semitic protests around the world following United States recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and future relocation of the US embassy to the holy city. Across America over a dozen cities witnessed demonstrations that included anti-Zionist and Nazi slogans denying Israel’s right to exist. The Anti-Defamation League reported on the many rallies. In New York’s famous Times Square protestors reportedly chanted “Khaybar, oh Jews, the Army of Muhammad will return,” referencing a seventh-century slaughter of Jews in Saudi Arabia An Al-Awda speaker reportedly told protesters, “They (Jews) don’t even bother hiding who they are anymore... They are the heart of

darkness. They are the heart of oppression. They are the torch bearers of white and Zionist supremacy....” In Los Angeles, outside the Federal Building, reported offensive chants included “F…. Jew” when pro-Israel supporters backing Trump approached a demonstration. And in Detroit, anti-Israel demonstrators burnt an Israeli flag. Protests also took place in Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Montreal, San Francisco, Sacramento Salt Lake City, Sarasota, Toronto and Washington D.C. In Israel, a missile was fired towards Ashkelon beach on Wednesday as the wave of attacks from Gaza continued. The missile landed in an open area, causing no injuries or damage. In response, the IDF targeted a Hamas military compound in the southern Gaza Strip. A total of 12 missiles have been

@TheJewishWeekly 033

SCHOOLS CELEBRATE CHANUKAH!

PHOTO CREDIT: LAWRENCE PURCELL King David Primary School pupils proudly showing off their Menorahs

fired at Israel from Gaza in the last week, the highest concentration since the summer of 2014. The first attack in the wake of Trump’s announcement came in

Jerusalem when an Israeli security guard was seriously injured after being stabbed by a Palestinian close to the central bus terminal. Israel’s Channel 10 news showed

CCTV footage of the incident. Over 300 Palestinians were injured, and at least two killed, during CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

PARSHAT MIKETZ SHABBAT CHANUKAH

SHABBAT:

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LONDON MANCHESTER LEEDS LIVERPOOL BOURNEMOUTH BIRMINGHAM

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2 NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Gove slams anti-Israel activists CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

clashes in the West Bank, Jerusalem and Gaza. In Beirut, Hezbollah followers reportedly chanted “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” in fervent protests, whilst rockets were fired from Gaza into Israel, including one into Sderot, hitting a residential street and kindergarten. In response, IDF jets struck four targets in Gaza including a Hamas military compound and weapons warehouse according to an official statement. “The IDF views the shooting at Israeli communities severely, and Hamas is solely responsible for what happens in the Gaza strip,” noted the statement (Jerusalem Post). Protests took place across North African and Middle Eastern cities including Rabat, Amman, Cairo, Tehran and Istanbul. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to comments by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara that the US decision made Washington “complicit in violence” on Monday. Erdogan referred to Israel as a “terror state” in his speech, adding the US had become a “partner in this bloodshed”. Netanyahu reacted angrily to the accusations at a news conference on Monday. “I’m not used to receiving lectures about morality from a leader who bombs Kurdish villages in his native Turkey, who jails journalists, helps Iran go around international sanctions and who helps terrorists, including in Gaza, kill innocent people,” he noted. Meantime, Indonesia has no diplomatic ties to Israel, and their president, Joko Widodo, described the US’s Jerusalem decision as a violation of UN resolutions. Thousands attended a rally outside the US Embassy in Jakarta to support the Palestinians. And across major European

Michael Gove

cities, there was a backlash against Israel. In London, “Khaybar”, “death to America” and “death to Israel” hate chants were heard at a ‘Hands off Jerusalem’ rally outside the US embassy in Grosvenor Square last Friday. Videos of the protest also showed protestors waving swastika banners next to the podium. Labour MP Andy Slaughter and rapper Lowkey were among speaker to address protesters. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), Palestinian Forum in Britain, Friends of Al Aqsa, Stop the War Coalition (StWC) and Muslim Association of Britain organised the protest at President Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The event brought swift recriminations from organisations including Labour Friends of Israel. LFI director Jennifer Gerber wrote to Mr Slaughter and Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott, who is a patron of protest co-sponsor Stop the War Coalition, asking them both to condemn the anti-Semitic chanting. Ms Gerber wrote: “It is beyond grotesque that chants calling for the murder of Jews have been heard on the street of London. I understand that these chants were neither silenced nor denounced by the official speakers of the organisers. “For the avoidance of any doubt, references to ‘the Jews’ and calling for their slaughter is not a legitimate criticism of Zionism or the state of Israel. It is unequivocally vile anti-Semitism and should be condemned as such.” Referring to the swastika banners, she continued, “Comparing Israel to the Nazis, a regime responsible for the extermination of six million Jews, is disgusting anti-Semitism. It is simply not feasible that the speakers and organizes of the event did not notice these banners, yet they were allowed to be displayed throughout the demonstration. Regarding, Mr Slaughter, she added, “As a speaker at this protest, I now ask you to condemn the protesters, their chants, swastikas and the organisers who failed to denounce them.” Ms Gerber asked Ms Abbot, to request that Stop the War “issues a statement unequivocally condemning this anti-Semitism.” Ms Gerber warned Ms Abbot, “reluctance to do so could be seen as tantamount to condoning anti-Semitic chants made at an event they co-organised.”

In a joint statement, the PSC and StWC condemned the incident, but rejected a claim that the signs were trying to compare Israel to the Nazis. They said: “Videos and photographic evidence show that there was a placard held at the rally with a slogan that formed an image of a swastika. PSC and StWC staff were not aware of the placard during the rally. We do not believe it is ever appropriate to trivialise the swastika and to use the symbol to make political statements. “The claim that the placard in question was comparing Israel to the Nazis is not backed up by an examination of the photographic evidence. The slogan in fact had the words ‘stop Trump’ with the T’s forming the sign of the swastika.” The message of whoever was holding the swastika was clearly an attempt to identify Trump as representing racist and far-right views. Whilst PSC and STW deplore the overt racism and support for farright groups that President Trump has undoubtedly displayed, we do not endorse the use of the swastika given all of its historic resonance to make such points.” LFI vice-chair Louise Ellman is awaiting a response to Metropolitan police commissioner Cressida Dick referencing whether the anti-Semitic comments breached section 18 of the Public Order Act, which bars abusive or insulting words likely to stir up racial hatred. Prime Minister Theresa May was unable to attend a Conservative Friends of Israel annual lunch at Westminster. But Environment Secretary Michael Gove, addressing eight cabinet ministers and around 170 parliamentarians slammed the anti-Israel activists. “These people keep showing their true colours, again and again and again,” he said. Gove said Israel’s enemies wanted “not a smaller Israel, but no Israel at all”. Alistair Burt, Middle East Minister, said the peace process had been made harder by Trump’s announcement but noted friends of Israel “cannot let the chance of peace

A cartoon being passed around in the aftermath

slip”. Mark Regev, Israel’s ambassador to Britain, Lord Balfour and Silvan Shalom, former Israeli minister attended the event. Further condemnation came from Stephen Silverman, Director of Investigations and Enforcement at the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism. “Anti-Semitic crime has continued to surge in Britain and now we have a mob, including children, calling for the murder of Jews under the noses of the police in central London,” he said. “Already this year we have seen two kosher restaurants firebombed in Manchester and Jews in London pursued by a man wielding a meat cleaver and a machete. “In the past week we have seen the firebombing of a synagogue in Sweden and an attack on a kosher restaurant in Holland. “The authorities must urgently act against those who incite anti-Semitic violence or we fear that British Jews will pay with their blood. “The time to act is now and those who incited hate at protests this weekend must be brought to justice.” And the Board of Deputies, Community Security Trust and Jewish Leadership Council issued a joint statement: “The ‘Khybar, Khybar’ chant heard and documented at Friday’s protest outside the US Embassy in London can only be interpreted as a call to incite violence against Jewish people. “It is outrageous that these protesters thought that such a chant would be acceptable on the streets of London in 2017. That this comes in the context of a firebombing of a synagogue in Sweden and an attack

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on a kosher restaurant in Amsterdam only increases our concern. “These acts are not criticisms of a decision by the US government but demonstrations of anti-Semitism. “We welcome the condemnation by the protest organisers of this notorious Jihadi chant - which was clearly audible at the height of the demonstration - but urge them to take action to ensure that such acts do not go unchallenged at their events in the future. “We further call on all of those who addressed the rally to unequivocally condemn the chants and undertake not to support or organise any event at which such activity is tolerated in the future.” Elsewhere, Sweden’s Prime Minister Stefan Löfven denounced anti-Semitic incidents, including within 24 hours of the Trump speech when masked men attacked a Gothenburg Synagogue after Shabbat. Molotov cocktails were also thrown at a Gothenburg Synagogue while Jewish teenagers were in a party at nearby community hall. A second synagogue was firebombed in Malmö, just days after cocktails caused damage after being aimed at a Jewish cemetery and protestors reportedly shouted in Arabic, “We want our freedom back, and we will shoot the Jews,” according to a Sveriges Radio report. Following the initial attack in Malmö, Muslim and Christian leaders offered support by visiting the Synagogue and condemning the action. Alaeddin al-Qut, head of the Islamic study group Ibn Rushd Society, told Swedish news channel SVT Nyheter Skane they wanted CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 WHAT’S INSIDE THIS WEEK 02 News 08 Israel News 12 Community News 26 Feature 28 Sports 30 Judaism 36 Kids

40 Youth 44 Women 46 Travel 48 Nutrition 49 Food 50 Comedy 50 Classifieds


14 DECEMBER 2017 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 to show “sympathy and solidarity” with Malmö Jews. And al-Qut condemn all forms of racism and anti-Semitism in society. Archbishop Antje Jackelen wrote a column in newspaper Dagen addressing the Jewish communities in Gothenburg and Malmö assuring solidarity from the Swedish church in fighting anti-Semitism and violence in the name of religion. Three people have been arrested in connection with the Synagogue incident. In Vienna, protesters reportedly chanted in Arabic, “Jews, remember Khaybar. The army of Muhammad is returning”. And a Palestinian supporter with a Palestinian flag broke windows of a kosher restaurant in Amsterdam. Meantime, the German government said it was “ashamed” at anti-Semitic demonstrations in Berlin

NEWS 3

THE JEWISH WEEKLY and Munich that saw anti-Semitic chants and the burning of Israeli flags. Chancellor Angela Merkel, denounced the protests. Speaking after a meeting of the Christian Democratic Union party, Merkel condemned the demonstrations. “We oppose all forms of anti-Semitism and xenophobia — no differences of opinion, including about the status of Jerusalem, justify such actions,” she said. “The (German) state must use all the means at its disposal to stop this.” Further condemnation came from EU’s First Vice President Frans Timmermans and Justice Commissioner Vera Jourová noting there was “no justification” for the wave of attacks in a joint statement. The EU leaders said, “We are shocked and outraged by the wave of anti-Semitic attacks and demonstrations that are spreading hatred

against Jews in European cities over the last days. There can be no justification and we stand in full solidarity with the European Jewish communities in condemning these vile attacks in the strongest possible way. “We expect the perpetrators of anti-Semitic incitement to be prosecuted. European Jews must be able to live their lives in freedom and peace in Europe. This means rapid response to anti-Semitic actions, but it also means educating our

Angela Merkel

young. “There is no place for anti-Semitism in Europe and in the joint battle against anti-Semitism we should all work together to rid us from this ideology of hatred.” And EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini lambasted “all attacks on Jews everywhere in the world” when she met Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in Brussels on Monday. “Let me condemn in the strongest possible way all attacks on Jews everywhere in the world, including in Europe, and on Israel and on Israeli citizens,” Mogherini said. The remarks came after Netanyahu criticised Europe’s “hypocrisy” for condemning US recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, but rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel. And the European Jewish Congress called on Euro nations to take a strong punitive stance after the recent attacks.

Linekar scores own goal Fight anti-Semitism says Prime Minister in with anti-Israel retweet Chanukah message BY ISAAC SHERMAN

BY DEBORAH WAXLER

Prime Minister Theresa May condemned those who questioned Israel’s right to exist in her annual Chanukah message. She also pledged to “redouble” efforts to fight “all forms of anti-Semitism”. Sending her “very best wishes” to those celebrating the festival around the world, she said, “Chanukah recalls a time, over two millennia ago, when the Jewish people successfully resisted a vile attempt to wipe out their religion and culture. “It marks the triumph of freedom over hatred. And it calls on us all, whatever our religion or background, to defend the values and way of life that we share. “So as the Menorah candles are lit, let us renew that pledge today. Let us celebrate that in Britain you can practise your faith free from question or fear. “Let us take pride in the extraordinary contribution made by members of the Jewish community in all areas of national life. “Let us redouble our efforts to fight antisemitism in all its forms, including unequivocally condemning those who abhorrently use criticism of the Israeli government to question the right of Israel to exist. “And let us draw hope from the message of Chanukah, confident in

Theresa May

our values and determined to defeat hatred and extremism wherever it is found – today and for every generation to come.” Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called for a rededication to search for a more peaceful world. “As Jewish people here in Britain and all over the world light the first candle of the menorah this evening, I want to wish you all a very happy Chanukah,” he said. “Today, we remember the story of Chanukah, when a band of Jewish freedom fighters, led by Judah Maccabee, fought back against Seleucid rule, which sought to stop Jews practicing their religion - and, against extraordinary odds, they won. “Their struggle against oppression, for religious freedom serves as a lesson to us today. “Chanukah means dedication, so let us rededicate ourselves this year to the search for a more just, peaceful and equal world. Chanukah Sameach.”

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker scored a Twitter storm after retweeting a video from an anti-Israel activist. The former England and Tottenham Hotspur striker shared a tweet by Palestine sympathiser Ben White showing Israeli soldiers arresting Palestinian youths. White, described on his website as is a writer, journalist, researcher, and activist, specialising in Palestine/Israel, is the author of ‘Israeli Apartheid: A Beginner’s Guide and ‘Palestinians in Israel: Segregation, Discrimination and Democracy’. White tweeted ‘Israeli soldiers in Hebron bravely defend themselves from a number of existential threats disguised as defenceless Palestinian children.’ Lineker, who described the video as “sickening”, received criticism but defended his tweets. Former IDF spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner Amongst was among those to tweet Linekar. He tweeted: “Sorry, Gary, you’ve completely missed the point. When kids throw stones they are a public menace. They need to be stopped. Yes, the video is unpleasant but it conveniently shares only a glimpse of what happened, the aftermath of their actions. You should be wiser than this.” Lineker responded: “I stress I’m not taking sides, but locking a bunch of youngsters in a cage is

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

Gary Lineker

wrong. I ask you in return do you think that is the right way to treat them? I’ve tweeted vehemently against fascism, bigotry, terrorism etc but you don’t seem as interested in those tweets.” Arsen Ostrovsky tweeted, “Kids’? These are youths involved in violence and terror! They are not so ‘innocent.’ Just curious, did you show outrage at Gaza rocket fired into Israeli kindergarten on weekend? Or Israeli man stabbed by Palestinian terrorist outside Jerusalem station?” Linekar responded: “Ah the old whataboutery. I don’t take sides. I condemn all forms of violence.”

“It is unconscionable that Jews are under attack on the streets of Europe, whether by terrorists hurling Molotov cocktails or openly and brazenly calling for the mass murder of Jews in Malmo, Vienna and Paris,” said Moshe Kantor, EJC president. “We call on European governments to take strong punitive action against those who perpetrated these acts and call for the immediate arrest of anyone who makes anyone making murderous chants. “There is once again a double standard against Jews and anyone who suggests such an equation should be ashamed of themselves. Anyone who justifies anti-Semitic attacks on Jews, whether physical or verbal, places themselves in the category of an anti-Semite.” (Sources included European Jewish Congress, Jerusalem Post and Yeshiva News)

Turn to page 4 for Op-Ed

NEWS IN BRIEF

Brexit impact positive for Britain-Israel trade says Bicom report A BICOM report assessing the impact of Brexit on Britain-Israel trade and wider implications for British trade with countries around the world was published yesterday. Twelve months on from the referendum Israeli companies setting up in the UK has increased 28 per cent. The UK is also a top destination for Israeli foreign direct investment in Europe with 28 Israeli companies listed on the London Stock Exchange having a market capitalisation of £11.5bn. There was consensus that a bilateral free trade agreement should be prioritised. And Israeli high-tech business leaders in the UK were “largely unconcerned” about Brexit consequences. BICOM CEO James Sorene welcomed “positive” news and called upon British companies to export and set up in fast-growing markets like Israel. Only five British companies have opened innovation centres or acquired Israeli firms since 2014, as opposed to a greater number of American, Chinese and Canadian companies. UK-Israel Business CEO Hugo Bieber welcomed an “excellent review of the geopolitical and regulatory dynamics of Brexit.” The sector-by-sector analysis drew on interviews with diplomats, lawyers and business leaders in Britain and Israel.


4 NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

So now we know – Jerusalem is the capital BY JAMES MARLOW

Professor Eric H. Cline wrote a book in 2004 called “Jerusalem Besieged” in which he described Jerusalem being attacked 52 times, conquered 44 times, besieged 23 times and destroyed twice over the last 3000 years. Yet only ONE people or nation have ever declared it to be their capital. That was until the Palestinian Arabs did so in the eighties. Many said that once the Oslo Accords were signed in 1993, the Palestinians would compromise for the sake of peace. President Clinton told Yasser Arafat at the Camp David II talks, to take the deal on the table which included parts of east Jerusalem as a future state. But Arafat refused and gave a green light for the suicide attacks to intensify against Israelis. The great King David around 1000BCE moved the capital of Israel from Hevron to Jerusalem during his 40-year reign. It is where the First and Second Temple’s stood and where the Western Wall remains today. Jerusalem is mentioned in the Tanach (Bible) more than 700 times. In Psalm 137 we say “If I forget you O’ Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill.” Yes, we were kicked out, although small Jewish communities remained in Jerusalem, Tzfat and Hevron throughout most of the 2000-year exile. But no other nation in history made it into their capital. Almost 3000 years after King David, the front-page headline in the New York Herald on 11 December, 1917 read in capital letters: “JERUSALEM IS RESCUED BY BRITISH AFTER 673 YEARS OF MOSLEM RULE.”

New York Herald

THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

The two flags projected on the wall

The article went on to describe General Allenby capturing Jerusalem from the Ottomans. There was no Arab Palestinian claim on the city then, nor was there a claim in 1947 when the UN voted to divide Mandate Palestine into Jewish and Arab states with Jerusalem being an international city. Even when the Arab nations attacked Jewish Palestine, which became known as Israel and the Jordanians conquered and annexed Jerusalem destroying its synagogues in the old city, there was still no claim of Jerusalem being a capital. PLO spokesperson and secretary general Saeb Erekat did tell the BBC in a documentary, “On June 5, 1967 when Israeli tanks came into my village in east Jerusalem, from that moment on, I became a Palestinian,” suggesting he was very happy to be a Jordanian until that day. But still no claim by him or other Palestinians that Jerusalem was the capital. So why today do the Palestinians insist that the Jews do not have a claim to Jerusalem? We are told it was Donald Trump who made the “historic” declaration that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and because of this “dangerous” move, there will now be more radicalisation, terror and war across the world. Actually, it was Congress that passed the law in 1995 with a majority of 93-5 in the Senate and 374-37 in the House to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and to relocate the US Embassy from Tel Aviv. Since that time President’s Clinton, Bush and Obama who have ALL claimed on several occasions (normally when they looking for the Jewish and evangelical vote) that “Jerusalem is the undivided

capital of Israel.” But every six months the waiver form to relocate the Embassy is signed because of pressure from the Palestinian Authority and Arab league. The stone throwing and molotov cocktail violence directed at Israelis by Palestinians we are told is also a direct result of Donald Trump’s “dangerous” words. Even the rockets fired from Gaza into Israel is all the cause of Trump. But did you ask why Palestinians also burnt pictures of President’s Obama, Bush and Clinton in the past 20 years and why they also threw stones, firebombs and rockets during those times? We are being brainwashed into believing this is not the right thing for Trump to do. But it is the right thing and it is the right time. We have waited long enough and now we must all get behind the decision and make sure the Congress law is carried out. DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE OR JUST TO TO MAKE A POINT? PLEASE SEND AN EMAIL TO letters@TheJewishWeekly. com

James Marlow is a freelance journalist specialising in British and Israeli politics along with Middle East and Regional Affairs. In addition, he is an experienced media and communications trainer and advises on a consultant basis. james@thejewishweekly.com @James_J_Marlow


baby it’s cold outside!


8 ISRAEL NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

NEWS IN ISRAEL

Hundreds of thousands attend funeral of Harav Shteinman

BY ISAAC SHERMAN

Jews around the world are in mourning as one of the leading Rabbis of the Jewish nation, Rabbi Aharon Leib Shteinman passed away on Tuesday, aged 104. Police blocked major highways and roads around the cemetery, for the funeral procession in Bnei Brak, and emergency medical services were on hand to deal with the flood of people clamouring to get a close look. Rabbi Shteinman was a long-time political kingmaker whose orders were strictly followed by his representatives in parliament. His influence, however, far surpassed just that and he was seen as the leading voice of the entire community on many issues of religion and state. Following the 2012 death of his predecessor, Rabbi Elyashiv, he was widely regarded as “Gadol Hador,” or “leader of the generation.” Rabbi Shteinman was known for his rabbinic scholarship, his relatively pragmatic rulings and extremely modest lifestyle. He was often called to judge on sensitive matters such as how much the traditionally insular community should integrate with the larger Israeli society, embrace technology, pursue higher education, work or agree to serve in the largely security military. Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer, an expert on the ultra-Orthodox community, said that until just recently Rabbi Shteinman was of clear mind and hosting followers who sought his advice.

Netanyahu meets EU foreign ministers

“He was a person who knew very carefully how to balance the needs of the community with the needs of the individual,” he said. “His legacy is greatness of scholarship … but at the same time a very nuanced leadership.” Israeli President Reuven Rivlin praised Rabbi Shteinman as a leader who “carried on his shoulders the existential weight of the Jewish people.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called him a “giant of Jewish learning.” “The Jewish people have lost a lighthouse of spirit, heritage and ethics,” Netanyahu said. “Rabbi Shteinman established an important link in the chain of thousands of years of Torah, and his memory will rest forever in the annals of our nation.

Harav Shteinman ZT"L PHOTO CREDIT: YESHIVA WORLD NEWS

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told EU Foreign Ministers in Brussels that Palestinian rejectionism, not the status of Jerusalem or settlement construction, were at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict earlier this week . On the first visit to Brussels by an Israeli Prime Minister since 1995, Netanyahu told EU Foreign Ministers it was time to challenge assumptions about the Middle East such as the idea that “the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was the heart of the conflict in the Middle East”. He confirmed afterwards that he had “asked the Foreign Ministers to address the root of the conflict, which is rejectionism toward recognising the State of Israel. The opposition to Zionism started before there were settlements and is related to the refusal to recognise the Jewish state”. Referring to US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the Prime Minister said the city “has been the capital of Israel for the last 70 years”. “Peace is based on recognising reality, and I think the fact that Jerusalem is Israel’s capital is clearly evident to all of you who visit Israel, see where

the seat of our parliament, our Knesset is, the seat of our Government,” he continued. The High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, said the EU would continue to recognise the “international consensus” on Jerusalem, saying that “the only realistic solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine is based on two states with Jerusalem as the capital of both the State of Israel and the State of Palestine”. She also confirmed that “the EU will increase its work together with our international friends and partners but also with friends and partners in the region, starting from Egypt and Jordan, and obviously with the parties – Israel and Palestine – to start to relaunch the peace process”. Netanyahu also spoke about Israel’s cooperation with the EU, particularly in counter-terrorism and cyber security. He said: “Israeli intelligence has prevented dozens of terrorist attacks, many of them on European soil.” “You need cyber security; Israel is a world partner. Therefore, the partnership between Israel and Europe is vital,” he added.

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10 ISRAEL NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

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Missile aimed at Ashkelon beach as Gaza tension continues A missile was fired towards Ashkelon beach in southern Israel earlier this week as the recent wave of attacks from Gaza continued. The missile landed in an open area, causing no injuries or damage. In response, the IDF targeted a Hamas military compound in the southern Gaza Strip, as Israel holds Hamas responsible as rulers of Gaza for all missile attacks emanating from the territory. In total 12 missiles have been fired at Israel from Gaza in the last week, the highest concentration since the summer of 2014. Earlier this week two members of Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s military wing, the Jerusalem Brigade, were killed when a missile they were carrying detonated prematurely as they rode a motorbike. The pair, who Islamic Jihad called “martyrs of preparation” in a statement, were initially falsely reported as being hit by an IAF strike. According to Channel Two News, Islamic Jihad is responsible for the recent missile fire towards Sderot and not the smaller Salafi

Jihadist groups who have carried out sporadic missile attacks over the last few months. The channel’s Arab Affairs expert Ohad Hemo also reported that more extreme elements of Hamas’s military wing are offering support to Islamic Jihad, while Iranian Revolutionary Guard General Qasam Soleimani offered the Hamas military wing “an open cheque” of support in their missile campaign against Israel. In a related development earlier this week , a Palestinian suspected of attempting to damage the border fence near Ariel was shot and killed by the IDF. An IDF statement confirmed that the individual “placed his hand in his pocket and appeared to be drawing a knife,” though he was later discovered to be unarmed. The IDF will launch an inquiry into the shooting. The IDF also arrested Hassan Yousef, one of the Hamas leaders in West Bank. IN ASSOCIATION WITH BICOM

Missile being fired PHOTO CREDIT: BICOM

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Founder of Mercaz HaTorah is Niftar At the time of going to print, The Jewish Weekly learned the sad news of the death of Rabbi Aryeh Rottman ZT”L, the founder of Yeshivat Mercaz Hatorah in Talpiot, Yerushalaym. Rabbi Rottman started the Yeshiva along with his Rebbe, Rabbi Chaim Kreiswirth ZT”L in 1970, and continued to head the Yeshiva until recent years when his son Rav Mordechai gradually took over his father’s role. Thousands of students have learned in the Yeshiva over the many years and all were deeply inspired by his lectures.

Rabbi Rottman ZT"L

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10 ISRAEL NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

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Hundreds of thousands attend funeral of Harav Shteinman BY ISAAC SHERMAN

Jews around the world are in mourning as one of the leading Rabbis of the Jewish nation, Rabbi Aharon Leib Shteinman passed away on Tuesday, aged 104. Police blocked major highways and roads around the cemetery, for the funeral procession in Bnei Brak, and emergency medical services were on hand to deal with the flood of people clamouring to get a close look. Rabbi Shteinman was a long-time political kingmaker whose orders were strictly followed by his representatives in parliament. His influence, however, far surpassed just that and he was seen as the leading voice of the entire community on many issues of religion and state. Following the 2012 death of his predecessor, Rabbi Elyashiv, he was widely regarded as “Gadol Hador,” or “leader of the generation.” Rabbi Shteinman was known for his rabbinic scholarship, his relatively pragmatic rulings and extremely modest lifestyle. He was often called to judge on sensitive matters such as how much the traditionally insular community should integrate with the larger Israeli society, embrace technology, pursue higher education, work or agree to serve in the largely security military. Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer, an expert on the ultra-Orthodox community, said that until just recently Rabbi Shteinman was of clear mind and hosting followers who sought his advice. “He was a person who knew very carefully how to

Netanyahu meets EU foreign ministers

balance the needs of the community with the needs of the individual,” he said. “His legacy is greatness of scholarship … but at the same time a very nuanced leadership.” Israeli President Reuven Rivlin praised Rabbi Shteinman as a leader who “carried on his shoulders the existential weight of the Jewish people.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called him a “giant of Jewish learning.” “The Jewish people have lost a lighthouse of spirit, heritage and ethics,” Netanyahu said. “Rabbi Shteinman established an important link in the chain of thousands of years of Torah, and his memory will rest forever in the annals of our nation.

Harav Shteinman ZT"L PHOTO CREDIT: YESHIVA WORLD NEWS

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told EU Foreign Ministers in Brussels that Palestinian rejectionism, not the status of Jerusalem or settlement construction, were at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict earlier this week . On the first visit to Brussels by an Israeli Prime Minister since 1995, Netanyahu told EU Foreign Ministers it was time to challenge assumptions about the Middle East such as the idea that “the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was the heart of the conflict in the Middle East”. He confirmed afterwards that he had “asked the Foreign Ministers to address the root of the conflict, which is rejectionism toward recognising the State of Israel. The opposition to Zionism started before there were settlements and is related to the refusal to recognise the Jewish state”. Referring to US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the Prime Minister said the city “has been the capital of Israel for the last 70 years”. “Peace is based on recognising reality, and I think the fact that Jerusalem is Israel’s capital is clearly evident to all of you who visit Israel, see where

the seat of our parliament, our Knesset is, the seat of our Government,” he continued. The High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, said the EU would continue to recognise the “international consensus” on Jerusalem, saying that “the only realistic solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine is based on two states with Jerusalem as the capital of both the State of Israel and the State of Palestine”. She also confirmed that “the EU will increase its work together with our international friends and partners but also with friends and partners in the region, starting from Egypt and Jordan, and obviously with the parties – Israel and Palestine – to start to relaunch the peace process”. Netanyahu also spoke about Israel’s cooperation with the EU, particularly in counter-terrorism and cyber security. He said: “Israeli intelligence has prevented dozens of terrorist attacks, many of them on European soil.” “You need cyber security; Israel is a world partner. Therefore, the partnership between Israel and Europe is vital,” he added.

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14 DECEMBER 2017

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Simon Morris to step down as Chief Golders Green giant Menorah with the freezing weather, Chanukah The menorah lighting takes place in the Executive of Jewish Care in Summer Even plans outdoors are still taking place and evenings. During the day Tzivos Hashem BY JW REPORTER

After 20 years at Jewish Care and 15 years as Chief Executive, Simon Morris has decided to step down from his role in the Summer of 2018. During his time at Jewish Care, Simon, along with the support of the Jewish Care Trustees and his senior management team, has transformed the organisation. Under his leadership, Jewish Care has become a widely respected organisation, not only in the Jewish Community, but in the wider social care world. Simon has initiated a programme of modernisation and change which, has enabled Jewish Care to provide a range of high quality services that reflect both current and future needs and the aspirations of the Jewish community. Jewish Care continues to innovate, developing new services whilst investing in an ambitious building programme to meet the needs of the community. In the next few weeks, the

Jewish Care Trustees will be embarking on a recruitment process, from both within and outside the organisation. The role will be widely advertised with the aim to appoint a candidate by next Spring. Simon will remain as Chief Executive until his successor is in post and, to ensure continuity, has also indicated his willingness to assist in ensuring a smooth transition. Lord Levy, President, Jewish Care commented; “Over the last 20 years Jewish Care has transformed into a leading social care provider both in the national arena and within the Jewish community. It is a jewel in the crown. We owe a great debt of gratitude to Simon. His contribution to Jewish Care and our community has been invaluable”. Steven Lewis, Chair, Jewish Care commented; “I have enjoyed working with Simon and whilst I will be sorry to see him step down as Chief Executive, I fully understand and respect his desire to seek new challenges.

Thanks to Simon’s leadership this organisation is in a strong position. He is a hard act to follow, but we are confident we will attract high calibre candidates with the skills, vision and passion to drive us forward. Simon’s departure will mark the next chapter in Jewish Care’s long history. For now, it is very much business as usual. We will never lose sight of our primary objective; to provide quality care services to the thousands of people who rely on us every day of the year”. Simon Morris said; “After twenty years at Jewish Care it’s time for me to have a change. I feel honoured and privileged to have been in this position and proud of the progress that has been made during my time here. Progress that would not have been possible without support from the Jewish Care Board of Trustees, my colleagues and the wider community”.

people braved the streets and came out to the giant Menorah at Golders Green Station. For over 30 years the giant Menorah is the part of the furniture in Golders Green. Tzivos Hashem under the organisation of Rabbi and Mrs Yossi Simon are lighting 8 public Menorahs this year in various locations. The world’s biggest Menorah will be lit every evening of Chanukah, at Golders Green Station at 6pm and Saturday night at 7pm. Some of the Guests of Honour are Rabbi Levi Sudak, Mayor Brian Salinger, Mr David Delew – CEO of CST and Mr Justin Cohen, who will be going up 30ft in a cherry picker to light the menorah accompanied by a guest chazzan or singer to sing the traditional Chanukah songs. The most exciting part of the event are the doughnuts, thanks to our local bakeries, as Jewish people are attracted to food!! Other then Golders Green Station, some of the menorahs we have put up are at: Alexandra Palace, Barnet General Hospital, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Highgate, Henley’s Corner and the Royal Free Hospital. Sunday night is kids night, at Golders Green and we are expecting over 2000 people. We have a fire show, live music, a trapeze artist, balloon man, clowns and lots more.

are in schools all over London running the ‘’Olive Press’’ taking fresh olives and turning them into olive oil; which is traditionally used to light the menorah commemorating the miracle of finding the oil in the Temple. For more info look on www.tzivoshashem.co.uk or phone 020 8458 0416 / 07870 636 091 or email info@tzivoshashem.co.uk

The Giant Menorah, outside Golders Green Station

Mizrachi UK launch Israel 70 with Yaakov Shwekey Mizrachi UK launched a year of special programming to celebrate 70 years of the State of Israel with world-renowned Jewish superstar, Yaakov Shwekey. Mizrachi hosted four concerts; in London, Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester with over 2000 people enjoying performances from the US singer. Shwekey also made special surprise visits to Hasmonean

Yaakov Shwekey greeting his fans

Yaakov Shwekey performing

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High School for Girls in London and Broughton Jewish Primary School in Manchester. CEO of Mizrachi UK, Rabbi Andrew Shaw commented “Over the coming months we will be rolling out our programme of education and inspiration for Israel 70. The Miracle Tour was the start, to wake up the community to the power and beauty of Religious Zionism”.


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14 NEWS

Hasmonean’s Kodesh Judged ‘Outstanding’ for Second Time Following an inspection which took place on 1st and 2nd November 2017, Hasmonean High School’s Kodesh provision has been rated ‘Outstanding’ (1) in all areas once again by Pikuach. The report stated that: “ The quality of leadership and management of Jewish education is outstanding. There is a dynamic and creative vision for Jewish education in which staff, governors and students strive for a culture of excellence...The school’s thoughtful and wide-ranging promotion of students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development enables them to thrive in a supportive and highly cohesive learning community. This is evident in both the formal and informal aspects of life at the school....Jewish values are embedded in the daily life of the school.” A copy of the full inspection

report can be found online. Executive Headteacher Mr Andrew McClusky and Chair of Governors Mr Marc Meyer issued a joint statement: “We would like thank all members of the Kodesh department for their incredible hard work and dedication. Our particular thanks go to the Kodesh leaders - Head of Kodesh Rabbi Golker, Rabbi Hartman, Mrs Odze, Rabbi Muster and Miss Simonsson - for their exceptional work, and to Chair of Jewish

Studies Mr Yossi Halberstadt for his stewardship of the committee that oversees their work. “The quality of the school’s Kodesh provision is incredibly important to students, staff, parents and governors, and we are incredibly proud that this has been recognised once again by Pikuach. “It is now our responsibility in the years ahead to ensure that each and every child continues to be as inspired and fulfilled by their religious education as possible.”

East London Community Champion recognised at Canary Wharf Group Awards Janet Foster is the proud recipient of Canary Wharf Group’s Community Champions Award for her tireless volunteering for Jewish Care’s Brenner Centre at Stepney Community Centre and fundraising with the Friends of Stepney and Brenner. Janet attended the group’s fourth annual award ceremony held at the end of November, together with her family and a close friend. The evening was hosted by the Group, celebrating the incredible voluntary work of ten volunteers who have been true champions and inspirations to their local community. After working as a project manager for many years on Youth Employment Programmes across London, Janet began to volunteer as a member of the Redbridge Schools Appeals Panel, where she volunteers to this day. Janet continued

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

to be active after retiring from the Civil Service, and became a volunteer at Jewish Care’s Stepney Community Centre in 2009. She was amazed by the number of centre members that she knew personally from growing up in the East End. Janet now takes a leading role in fundraising for the centre with the Friends of Stepney and Brenner organising many and varied entertainment events, bazaars and activities for the members. In addition, Janet still finds time to be Secretary to the Gants Hill Medical Centre Patients Participation Group. On receiving the award, Janet, who lives in Gants Hill, said, “I am passionate about the Brenner Centre at Stepney Jewish Community Centre and Jewish Care. I love volunteering in my local area and in Stepney because I was born

Janet pictured with Danny Seliger, Director, Administration, Canary Wharf Group

in the East End so I have a link to the members who are in their 80’s and 90’s. You are working with living history, people who fought in the Spanish Civil War, came to Britain on Kindertransport and a former Mayor of Stepney. I would do anything to promote the centre and help keep alive any remaining Jewish roots in the East End.” Danny Seliger, Director, Administration, Canary Wharf Group, who presented Janet’s award to her said, “It’s important for us to recognise and celebrate the incredible volunteer work done by the residents in their local communities. Janet is an inspiration with her work for Youth Employment Programmes across London, Jewish Care’s Brenner Centre at Stepney Community Centre, as well as being a leading role in fundraising for the centre with the Friends of Stepney and Brenner and more. It was an honour to present her with the much-deserved Community Champions award and Canary Wharf is proud to celebrate her extraordinary hard work within our community.” Each award winner person was presented with a certificate along with £250 to donate to a community organisation of their choice. The award ceremony took place at Canary Wharf Group, Level39, the world’s most connected community for finance, cybersecurity, retail and smart-city technology businesses.

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Southend And Westcliff 111th Anniversary – Chief Rabbi`s Grand Celebration Lunch BY GEOFFREY PEPPER 120 people were honoured to welcome Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis not in person but on historic Skype link, his visit being postponed because of the inclement weather. Celebrating 111 years of its history and praising Rabbi Bar and the lay leadership, the Chief Rabbi said. “ SWHC is a symbol of what a Jewish Community is about; it has a treasured past and SWHC is one of the UK`s outstanding communities, also benefiting from the Chassidim families moving into the town, enriching the Community, a welcome phenomenon going spectacularly well. ” The Chief Rabbi recounted an occasion when how in Israel in 1980 where he always davened at the Kotel and where there is always a minyan and learning, just before Purim, it was completely deserted and covered in a white blanket of snow, falling heavily. It was bitterly cold. He said the Kotel is never left alone but that morning there was not a single person in sight on the esplanade and he had the Kotel all to himself. The Chief Rabbi said “I prayed from the depths of my heart, when suddenly I saw somebody coming towards me and I knew I could pass the baton onto someone else.” He said it is the same with Southend and Westcliff, it has succeeded in passing the baton from previous years generations onto future generations, and it will be as

successful in the years to come. Rabbi Bar praised the Chief Rabbi on his humanitarian and Shabbat (UK) projects and that SWHC forefathers had worked so hard because it is one Community. Rabbi Bar also praised the Chassidic families who are moving into the town, the planning of an Eruv in the area, and said that there is incredible interest in young couples wanting to live in Westcliff. The celebration was also attended by local MP Sir David Amess, who said he will always support the Jewish Community and the State of Israel. Sir David also said, “Southend is being rejuvenated and I am hopeful the Synagogue will have “City status” when Southend becomes a City. Former Mayor and member, Councillor David Garston recounted how Southend has had six Jewish Mayors, and explained how Southend Borough Council work with the Jewish Community, is a model for the rest of the country getting on with the other faiths in the town. He gave an example and said, “Some years ago, when a mosque in the town suffered a fire the Rabbi at the time was one of the first on the scene offering help.” The Community wished the Chief Rabbi Mazeltov on the forthcoming marriage of his son taking place soon in Israel and promised to rearrange his visit to Southend and Westcliff.

Chief Rabbi Ephriam Mirvis on Skype PHOTO CREDITS: TERENCE MENDOZA



16 NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Chai’s ‘360 Degrees’ Dinner raises £1.1m

BY JW REPORTER

Chai Cancer Care, the Jewish Community’s Cancer Support Organisation raised over £1.1m at its annual Dinner. The event entitled ‘360 Degrees’ was held for the third time at London’s Roundhouse and was attended by over 750 guests, raising much needed funds for Chai to provide its all-encompassing specialist support and care services to 3,074 people in the community affected by a cancer diagnosis. Lord Young welcoming the guests said: “I would like to thank our partner, the partner without whom we simply could not exist. That partner is you,

all of you who have supported us over the last 27 years. Without you we could not even have started, without you we could not have grown. You collectively are truly a senior partner, for we get no government funding and the money we spend is truly your money.” Chai Chairman, Louise Hager spoke passionately about Chai’s all–encompassing embrace of professionalism, care and expertise that supports everyone who turns to Chai. She said: “It surrounds you from the moment you get in touch, from the moment you walk through our doors, or for those who are too unwell to come to us, the moment Chai

walks through your door.” Louise also spoke about the revolutionary ethos of Chai, which for 27 years has put Chai at the forefront of cancer care. She said: “We recognise that every person who turns to Chai will have their own specific needs, which is why each service is chosen deliberately so that the patient or their loved ones gets the right care and the right service for as long as they need it. The cancer journey changes throughout, often unexpectedly, and we match those twists and turns, always with the ultimate aim to empower our clients to deal with whatever set of circumstances they may face. Be

it a new diagnosis, after surgery and during treatment, adjusting to life post-treatment or following a bereavement. For many it will be a different life. A life they did not choose. But a life in which they can find meaning and purpose. And now almost three decades later it is indeed heartening that so much of the mainstream approach to cancer care, adopted by many of the country’s largest charities, is now following our lead.” Guests were then shown the appeal film entitled ‘The Wonder of Chai’, featuring a whirlwind of emotions and feelings, of families and relationships. The film can be viewed here: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=NT8S1Du2ZPs&feature=youtu.be Later in the evening, the Gat Brothers, runners up in Israel’s X Factor, The Rising Star, got the audience on their feet, capturing their hearts with their harmonic renditions of ‘Come Together’, ‘Hey Jude’ and ‘Sound of Silence’.

The large crowd being entertained by the Gat Brothers

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Jonathan Arkush: Nicola Sturgeon has taken ‘tangible steps’ on antisemitism

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has taken “tangible steps” against antisemitism, according to Board of Deputies of British Jews President Jonathan Arkush. Following a meeting in Edinburgh at which antisemitism, Israel and relations with the Scottish National Party were discussed, Jonathan said: “I was very glad to have held my first meeting with the First Minister today. She has extended the hand of friendship to the Scottish Jewish community and made tangible steps to stand firm against antisemitism, including bigotry against Israel”. Nicola Sturgeon said: “Scotland believes in equality for all people – whoever they are, wherever they are from and whatever they believe. The Scottish Government recognises and greatly values the substantial and enduring influence of the Jewish faith on Scotland’s people and culture. I wish the Jewish Communities in Scotland and across the world a peaceful and happy Chanukah Chanukah sameach.” Jonathan was joined by Micheline Brannan, Chair of the Scottish Council of Jewish Communities. They will be attending the lighting of the Chanukah candles at the Scottish Parliament this evening where they will be joined by Scottish party leaders.

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18 NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Inspirational Poland trip prolonged due to snow 180 Year 12 students from JFS spent an emotional six days last week touring around Poland on a special trip organised in conjunction with educational organisations JRoots, Aish UK and Chazak. Four busloads of students travelled across Poland visiting sites of historical significance and tracing the story of the Holocaust. The trip included visits to Warsaw, Lublin, Majdanek, Łódź, Chełmno and Kraków, culminating in a powerful visit to Auschwitz. A highlight of the trip was a visit to the small town of Kolbuszowa in south-eastern Poland, the hometown of the great-grandparents of one JFS student. His family had once owned the local bakery, and in

memory of his great-grandparents he distributed fresh challot to the group on Erev Shabbat in a re-enactment of his family’s trade. The group followed the family’s story to Głogów where a number of the family perished. An inspiring Shabbat experience in Kraków followed. The student remarked, “It was a really great experience to be standing in the shop where my great-grandparents and their family lived beforehand. To have in mind the fact that they were at that exact spot, living and working, only 75 years ago was very overwhelming, especially since most of them perished in the Holocaust.” The group were due to return to London on Sunday but were unable

The group mid-tour

The group enjoying some snacks

the spirit of the students, and their Jewish pride, that they have taken the flight delays in their stride and made the absolute most out of a difficult situation”.

Board of Deputies condemns Grenfell conspiracy theorist Board of Deputies Vice President Marie van der Zyl has condemned the views of Tahra Ahmed, a Grenfell tower volunteer who described the fire as a “Jewish sacrifice”. Marie said: “The Grenfell Tower tragedy catalysed an outpouring of grief and support, from people of all faiths and backgrounds, who were united in solidarity. It is shameful that a conspiracy theorist should misuse this tragedy as a platform for her extreme and repugnant views. We are sure those active in supporting the survivors of the Grenfell will want to ensure that such noxious individuals will not undermine their important work.”

Part of the inspirational trip

Essex Youth Community in Unity On Saturday night Chigwell & Hainault, Ilford, Redbridge and Woodford Forest United Synagogues in conjunction with Tribe had a pre-Chanukah trip to Jump Evolution in Romford. In attendance were teens from the communities, Rabbis & Rebbetzens Abrams, Goodwin and Singer and Ben Vos of Tribe. The teens had an amazing time jumping away, playing dodge ball and other fun activities on the trampolines. Following the jumping there was a party room set up in the Chanukah spirit with loads of snacks, doughnuts and sweets. There were fun Chanukah games that were played, such as Chanukah versions of pass the parcel with great prizes, Dreidel games and a Chanukah quiz.

Tracing the story of the Holocaust

to travel home owing to snow in the UK. Rabbi Ari Kayser, Aish Schools Manager commented, “After a trip with so many highs and lows, it can be disappointing to not leave as planned. But it is a testimony to

NEWS IN BRIEF

Tribe Community Liaison Manager Ben Vos said “It’s great to see the youth of Chigwell & Hainault, Ilford, Redbridge and Woodford Forest get together and have a really great time on a Saturday night. We at Tribe take great pleasure in supporting our communities putting on joint events. The work that our rabbinical staff have put into making the event fun, with all the games afterwards, is ‘the icing on the doughnut’! I love that the staff at the venue had to kick us out at closing time, because the games went on too long!” “It was wonderful to work with my colleagues to build and connect our communities as one and we look forward to many more joint events in the future’’ Chanukah Sameach

Laniado hosts a magical event Laniado have held another hugely successful event this past Satuday night. Located at the Tikun in Temple Fortune, NW11, it was filled to capacity with participants coming to support the charity and enjoy an evening with the amazing magician and mind reader Nick Einhorn. The evening kicked off with an interactive quiz where people had to answer questions on their mobile phones - it was a game of speed and everyone was hooked! Nick captivated the audience and amazed everyone in the room with his skills of magic and mystery. Nick is considered by many to be at the forefront of British magic. With

Mr Isaac Isaac-Saul together with his son Joshua & Mr Ruvi Bloom

his combined skills of world class

Mr Nick Einhorn, Magician and Mind Reader

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sleight-of-hand and mind-reading, together with his charming and easy personality the guests at Laniado were left baffled wondering how did he do it?! There was also a raffle with some great prizes – from make overs to Sushi platters – and someone was lucky enough to win a trip to Spain for a week! Much needed funds were raised for Laniado and the evening was a roaring success.


Introducing Choice for our older community Described as North West London’s ‘hidden gem’ care home, the JewishChoice Elderly Care Campus provides residential, respite and dementia care within a wonderful, kosher, ‘home from home’ environment. Through our residential care home Choice House, independent apartment living at Choice Court, and our day centre community hub, Choice Friendship Club, we provide exceptionally high levels of care all on one site and at an extremely competitive price. Come and experience the choice and warmth for yourself by booking an appointment with our welcome team.

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20 NEWS

Former Director of the Mossad addresses JNF UK group On 7 December at an exclusive dinner hosted by JNF UK in support of the JNF UK funded Ezra Le’Marpeh rehabilitation centre in Sderot. Those in attendance were enormously privileged to meet and hear from Ezra Le’Marpeh founder and Israel prize laureate Rabbi Avraham Elimelech Firer. Tamir Pardo, the former Director of the Mossad serving from 2011 until 2016, also addressed JNF UK’s guests. In an engaging speech, Mr Pardo gave fascinating insights into modern day threats posed to national and international security by new technologies. Rabbi Firer, who founded Ezra Le’Marpeh over 38 years ago and has worked tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of hundreds of thousands of people, was interviewed by His Excellency Ambassador Mark Regev. Guests at the dinner were able to hear from this inspirational leader how he developed a world-leading movement helping

Tamir Pardo is addressing the guests

thousands of people. The exclusive audience of supporters of Israel heard how Rabbi Firer has dedicated his life to carrying out tireless work on behalf of the sick and needy. As well as the Israel Prize, he has been awarded countless other honours, including the Knesset and the President’s prizes and several honorary PhDS.

From left to right: Yakir Gabay, Tamir Pardo, Yonatan Galon, Rabbi Firer, His Excellency Ambassador Mark Regev, Efi Hershkovitz

The funds raised from this event will go towards the Medical Rehabilitation Centre in Sderot, on the border with the Gaza Strip. The centre is the only one of its kind in the Negev, benefitting approximately 500,000 people by providing life-changing care that otherwise would not be available to them. Yonatan Galon, CEO of JNF UK, said “we are proud to be a partner in Rabbi Firer’s lifesaving mission and to have played a part in the construction of this important facility, including the Moss Jay Physiotherapy Suite, named after a JNF UK testator whose legacy made its creation possible. It was particularly gratifying to be in the presence of such an extraordinarily dedicated and generous group of supporters to hear more about the work of Rabbi Firer.”

First day Chanukah visit from Maccabi torch relay

Tenants of jLiving Harmony Close with a teenager from the 73rd Maccabiu Tzair Torch Relay

The Israeli teenagers of the 73rd Maccabi Tzair Torch Relay paid a visit to jLiving’s Harmony Close in Golders Green this week to celebrate first night Chanukah with the tenants and help light up their celebrations.

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THE JEWISH WEEKLY

The young people sat and chatted with the jLiving tenants answering their questions about life in Israel and helping many reminisce about the times when they visited the holy land. jLiving Scheme Housing Manager Gabriela Sousedikova

said “The young visitors were delightful and our tenants really enjoyed talking to them.” The Torch Relay visits an array of communities all over the UK including lighting the Chanukah candles with thousands in Trafalgar Square, primary schools nationally and Scotland, youth clubs and care homes and will engage over 4000 members of the Community. Established for over 50 years, jLiving (Jewish Community Housing Association) is one of the largest organisations on the UK providing sheltered and supported housing primarily to Jewish people. It operates in London and the South East and also has shared accommodation in Golders Green for students and young people.

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Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt meets with Prime Minister of Albania

For the first time, Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the Conference of European Rabbis, has led a delegation to meet with H.E. Edi Rama, the Prime Minister of Albania, in a celebratory candle lighting for Chanukah in Government House. The delegation included Mr. Geront Kureta, President of the Albanian Jewish community, CER Council of Patrons Vice President Bart Van de Kamp and Council of Patron members Joelle Aflalo and Ilja Gorelik. During the Holocaust, Albania provided sanctuary to a small number of Jewish refugees from Germany, Austria, Croatia and Serbia. The Albanian population, and even the Italian forces occupying the country from 1939, were sympathetic to the Jews and as a result, nearly the entire Jewish community survived intact.

Albania is one of the few European countries that emerged from World War II with more Jews than in 1939. Today the population is estimated to be less than 100 and is mainly based in Tirana. Commenting on the meeting, Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt said: “This is an historic meeting for the Jewish community, not just here in Albania but across Europe. The importance of a community is not always defined by its size. Wherever Jews are, it is important that they are supported by the Government of their country. We are incredibly grateful to the Prime Minister and his team for welcoming us. Prime Minister Rama has been supportive of the Jewish community throughout his tenure and we look forward to strengthening our relationship going forward.”

Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt shaking hands with H.E. Edi Rama, the Prime Minister of Albania

Pinner celebrates its 20th Chanukah Over 60 members from the Pinner AJR Group celebrated Chanukah, and the 20th anniversary of the group, with a party at Pinner synagogue. The group at Pinner is the longest running Regional group for The Association of Jewish Refugees. Organised by the outreach department and run by volunteers, these groups enable AJR members to

The guests enjoing the performance

meet to share experiences, listen to speakers, watch films or just have tea. Guests enjoyed a performance by Bronwen Stephens who sang opera and popular songs from musicals. Rabbi Danny Bergson had everyone singing along to his guitar and Maoz Tsur. Members enjoyed a delicious tea and a cake celebrating 20 years of the group’s existence.


Know a friend or a family member in hospital or in care? We will come along & hand out the Chanukah package & arrange our cheer up squad to entertain the patient. New: We have built our own electric menorahs for those that cannot use regular ones due to fire hazards. We have 400 in stock. Wishing You a Happy Chanukah NORTH WEST LONDON COORDINATOR 07506 750023 eliezer@jgift.org

chanukah@ahelpinghand.org.uk www.ahelpinghand.org.uk Tel: 020 7502 0200 or 077 256 3441


22 NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

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Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue vote overwhelmingly to appoint new Rabbinic Couple BY JW REPORTER Over the weekend members of Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue battled the snow to vote overwhelmingly for the appointment of Rabbi Daniel and Rabbanit Batya Friedman as their new Senior Rabbinic Couple. They will begin their roles in the summer of 2018 when the current Rabbinic Couple, Rabbi Dov and Rebbetzen Freda Kaplan return to Israel after seven years with the community. The vote took place after the couple and four of their five daughters spent Shabbat with the community, with Rabbi and Rabbanit Friedman delivering several well- received addresses, and meeting people in the many different services and youth/children’s activities. Rabbi and Rabbanit Friedman will be building on the strong foundations laid by their predecessors and will work with Chazan Avromi and Rochelle Freilich as well as the lay leaders to continue to develop the spiritual and

communal need of HGSS. Talking about her delight about the appointment, HGSS Chair, Carolyn Bogush, said: “After an extensive and rigorous process, we are delighted that the Friedmans were so warmly welcomed by the community. Their open and positive outlook, depth of Jewish learning and modern Orthodox approach makes them well placed to lead our community. It was amazing for the Friedmans to experience our active, busy and dynamic community, and I know that they are looking forward to embracing the needs of all our community members.” Rabbi and Rabbanit Friedman commented: “We have just enjoyed a most wonderful Shabbat at HGSS. The vibrancy of the community, the warmth of the people, the care and love everyone has for one another is far beyond words. We are so grateful that the community has placed their confidence in us as HGSS looks to the future; we are so excited! Hampstead Garden

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Letters to the Editor Dear Sirs, May I call your attention to the Guardian’s use of the same photo subjects slightly differently on this Friday (img1) and Saturday (img2) with misleading captions as from the body language it is highly unlikely this wpc is moving on the elderly Arab who is if anything putting his hand -at least in gesture- to stop her. Yours faithfully, Fank Adam

Rabbi Daniel and Rabbanit Batya Friedman

Suburb Synagogue is so incredible because everyone in the community works hard to make it incredible. We are really looking forward to becoming part of the team at Norrice Lea!” Rabbi Friedman was born in Britain but grew up in Australia and is currently Rabbi of Beth Israel Synagogue in Edmonton, Canada, where he has been the spiritual leader for fifteen years. He was Australia’s youngest Rabbi, when he began his career

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at Newtown Synagogue in Sydney. Rabbi Friedman has a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Alberta and has been studying for a doctorate there in International Relations. Rabbanit Batya Friedman has an MBA from Alberta and is director of an interfaith housing initiative.

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24 NEWS

14 DECEMBER 2017

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Broughton Fire Fighters warn of the dangers of Chanukah

Busy Bee, the Manchester City Logo on view in BJCFP School

Broughton Community Fire Fighters based on Bury New Road, give a warning to the Jewish Community to keep the Menorah well away from curtains

Eitan Freilich entertaining at Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox primary school

Since the May 22nd Terrorist atrocity at the Manchester Arena, killing twenty two and seriously injuring many more, the sight around Manchester of the BEE, the Manchester City logo can be

spotted far more now. These Busy Bees have been made by Children of the Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox primary school in the Schools Reception area..

The Manchester City Logo (Bees) in the BJCFP School reception area.

Hespedim for Rabbi Shwekey meets Mr Music, Alex Klyne Kaufman Eitan Freilich on stage entertaining BJCFP School

Eitan Freilich with his nephew 4 year old Netanel Freilich,at BJCFP

Hespedim were held for Rabbi Kaufman at the Kollel

Jack makes 184 Marzipan Dreidels at the Nicky Alliance centre

Centre’s Care Manager, Rabbi Avrom Baker and Jack Maurer PHOTO CREDIT: LAWRENCE PURCELL

At the concert

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26 FEATURE

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Yavneh College is top of the class for Jewish state schools in England BY DAVID SAFFER

Yavneh College in Borehamwood is the highest ranked Jewish school in the Sunday Times top 100 state schools in England. Based on the latest GCSE and A-level results, Yavneh are listed at joint-65th, ahead of JFS and Hasmonean High School in London then King David High School, Manchester. JCoSS London, King David High School Liverpool and Kantor Solomon High School, Essex feature in the top 500. Yavneh’s rise to prominence is a remarkable achievement since its inception just over a decade ago when around 90 year seven pupils walked into the £35m campus designed for 1,000 pupils. A long held pipe dream had become a reality for the local Jewish community, as just over a year ago, Yavneh Primary opened its doors. The school motto is ‘A World Built on Kindness’, its mission statement talks about nurturing ‘personal and academic excellence’ alongside ‘a love of Jewish life and learning’ whilst the school vision notes ‘inspirational teaching, intellectual curiosity and independent thinking’ together with ‘first class Jewish knowledge’ prepares students for the ‘challenges of a changing world’ in a safe environment with graduates reflecting British values. But “community” is the watchword executive headteacher Stephen Lewis cites when talking of

Yavneh offers a varied curriculum

the drive and success of his school based in the midst of Borehamwood’s massive, bustling Jewish neighborhood. “The community feel of the school is very special,” he explained. “Hertfordshire is very special and increasingly Borehamwood because of the growth in the Jewish community. “Our connection to the local community is really important. “Borehamwood & Elstree Synagogue has a regular minyan here every Shabbat, the local Sephardi community is based here meaning we are at least a six-day a week use. “On a Shabbat morning, hundreds of people of various origins daven. Our shul is very important, it makes it very much a ‘community’ school.” Mr Lewis is justifiably proud when it comes to extolling the virtues of his school. “Our ethos of being inclusive modern orthodoxy is very important,” he said. “We have pupils across the religious spectrum. “All the way through we are open, warm and inclusive, families feel at home and included, but we are modern orthodox so when we daven, which we do every day, it’s orthodox davening. “Now of course, we have the age spectrum with the primary school in its second year. There are 60 children so we are educating children from the age of four through to 19 all on the same site, which is very special.” He added, “My role has slightly

changed. “As executive head teacher of the Yavneh schools, I’m responsible for the implementation of the vision and ethos. Whilst continuing to head the secondary school, we have a head of the primary school as well.” So what are this heads hopes for pupils when they leave Yavneh? “Our mission statement talks about us being a modern orthodox school that embraces and enhances the modern world based on tradition,” he explained. “Our motto is a quote from the Tanach. We talk about the ‘Yavneh Way’, which is about respect, courtesy and politeness. That is something we encourage from children at an early age. We hope by the time they leave they’ll be contributing to the Jewish and wider community in terms of their leadership. Also, that there knowledge will be based on traditional Jewish learning but embracing and contributing to the modern world. “Well over 90 percent of our pupils go to university, 10% graduated onto Oxford and Cambridge, and an increasing number go on to higher level and degree apprenticeships. “Around 10 percent also spend a gap year in Israel at a seminary or yeshiva. “The national chair of UJS, Joshua Holt, is a Yavneh graduate, these kind of things we are very proud of.” In terms of the balance of secular versus Jewish studies, Mr Lewis noted that pupils have around one lesson a day of Jewish programming. “The Jewish programme is divided up into three parts in the first three years – Tanach, Talmud and Jewish History,” he said. “We also have an informal Jewish education department that runs programmes with children for festivals, community, charity and volunteering. “Ivrit is part of the curriculum and we have davening every day, which is a unique selling point of Yavneh, in the sense that it is compulsory. “Every afternoon all children daven Mincha during the school day. “We believe that is a key skill children should have by the time they leave. I would not say every

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Yavneh pupils attend prayers

child would be able to lead davening but everyone should be able to follow if they go to shul. “We also have a pre-school Shacharit service, which is voluntary and gets nice numbers given its relatively early in the morning. “These things punctuate the school day, and the standards of Jewish education that we have we try to make sure mirrors secular standards.” In terms of academic studies, Mr Lewis described them as a “very high standard”. “We are the highest performing non-selective state school at A-level,’ he said. “At GCSE level, pupils are performing extremely well and our Jewish studies programme should mirror that.” When it comes to the much-debated subject of Jewish high schools, Mr Lewis was succinct in his response to parents dismissive of a Jewish school, believing children are ‘better prepared’ for the wider world at a non Jewish school. “There is that view and the expression ‘Jewish bubble’ is something that grates me because I’ve never known a child to leave a Jewish school and be unprepared to face university,” he said. “No one has ever come back to me and said, “I went to university and didn’t know what to say to them”. It’s nonsense. “Full time Jewish education from the age of four to 18 or 19, gives children a true grounding and understanding of their own heritage. “If you are firm in your own heritage, and understand it, and Judaism constantly teaches about our place in the world and our responsibility towards everybody, not just towards Jews, you’ll be able to cope very well in the world.” Mr Lewis noted the school works hard when it comes to furthering a

pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the ‘wider world’. “‘British Values’ is in the curriculum, that is what the government calls it, but we were already doing these things,” he explained. “We work with Muslim and Hindu schools, our kids mix all the time through various programmes. “At Borehamwood & Elstree Synagogue, 200 pupils from Wales visited to learn about Judaism. Our kids worked with them on Jewish life through the Board of Deputies. “Our primary school also has very good connections close by at schools with very few Jewish pupils. “There is a lot of cross community work, our kids live in the modern world and they are not in a shtetl. I don’t think parents being dismissive of Jewish schools is a valid argument.” Yavneh had a special visitor earlier this year when Prince Charles saw for himself ‘social action’ projects during the schools’ tenth anniversary. Initiatives included pupils creating mobile phone covers for sick children at Watford General Hospital whilst the One People project benefited a charity inside the community, another outside and latterly one in Israel. The heir to the throne described extra curricular activities as “remarkable”. Prince Charles, who met pupils that received the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, National Citizen Service and Yoni Jesner Award, praised the education and encouragement pupils received at Yavneh. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said Yavneh College as an outstanding faith school provided an opportunity to celebrate faith as a powerful force for good. With the increasing number of Jewish schools, a thorny subject


14 DECEMBER 2017

Dan’s Premier League Column

BY DAN SILVER

Battle of the heavyweights, local derby and fierce rivalry. Manchester United vs Manchester City was oozing with high expectations going into the game and it didn’t disappoint at all. Having watched the full game instead of revising for my GCSE mock the next day, let me tell you something, it was one hundred percent worth it. The way Manchester City attacked United, with constant pressure was truly impeccable to watch as City looked for their opening goal of the game and found it on the brink of half time thanks to man-of-the-match David Silva who hooked home from close range after confusion at a corner. Understandably, City thought they had closed out the half, only for United to be handed a lifeline in first-half stoppage time when poor defending from Nicolas Otamendi and Fabian Delph allowed Marcus Rashford to steal in for a composed finish. But, Otamendi made amends nine minutes after the break when Romelu Lukaku - who had an extremely poor game, especially for a player who cost the Red Devils £75M - lashed out a clearance in the area and the City defender pounced on the rebound to score. Even though I could focus on many matters in this game, I’d like to

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point out quality and when I say quality I mean the wizard, David Silva. Silva may be small in stature but he stood head and shoulders above every other player in the intense heat of this game and showed again why he deserves to be ranked as a Premier League great, and one of the finest players to play for City. He had more time on the ball than any other player, the hallmark of class, and always seemed to have more options in possession than any other player. Silva pounced for City’s crucial first goal, held his own in the physical exchanges and even shrugged off a heavy bang to the head in a clash with United’s Marcos Rojo. It was a complete performance from a world-class player. The Merseyside derby has produced absolute belters of a game but never before have I seen such a game where one team would dominate (and I can’t physically express how much they dominated) in such a crucial game to not only the club, but most importantly to the fans, who can claim their bragging rights over their noisy neighbours. This is why I’m even more astounded as to how the game ended up 1-1 when Liverpool’s attacking prowess has been on fire this season and Everton’s defence looking shaky from their treacherous start to the season. Nevertheless, the game ended up all evens, with the

Reds’ manager Jurgen Klopp accusing referee Craig Pawson of “opening the door” for Everton considering the domination they inflicted on Everton the whole game, which proved to just not be enough. Other results include struggling West Ham’s shock 1-0 win over reigning champions Chelsea, only for Chelsea to prove their ‘big club’ status when they were victorious over Huddersfield by 3 goals to one on Tuesday night. Crystal Palace scoring two late goals in a dramatic win over Watford moving them out of the Premier League relegation zone for the first time this season, also on Tuesday. And Burnley manager Sean Dyche exclaiming, and I must say I absolutely love this quote, “football is about dreams” after his side moved into fourth place in the Premier League with victory over Stoke at Turf Moor. But who could’ve guessed it that once again Newcastle would let me down after a late own goal against Leicester extended their poor run of form. It’s just not acceptable anymore and it hurts me to say this but the Magpies now have the worst run in the whole of the Premier League in the last six games, only picking up a measly ONE point out of a possible eighteen. Sometimes, Football does truly hurt, but that only makes it better for when you celebrate glory.

Sedgley Park Celtic v Reich (7-4)

Reich on the move

Sedgley Park on the attack PHOTO CREDIT: LAWRENCE PURCELL


28 SPORTS

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

SPORTS

ONE NATION... ...MANY TEAMS

W E E K LY

Lee and Solomons to manager Masters 45+ football squad at Pan American Games BY DAVID SAFFER

Darryl Lee and Adam Solomons have been appointed to lead the Maccabi GB at the 2019 Pan American Maccabi Games in

Adam Solomons

Mexico. Experienced coach Adam Fegan will assist the duo. Lee has vast experience having played for South Manchester, Sale FC and Manchester Maccabi. The Mancunian has also managed a variety of clubs in the Manchester Jewish Soccer League. Lee participated at the 2001 Maccabiah Games for the Masters 35+ football squad prior to managing Maccabi GB at the 2005 and 2009 Maccabiah, 2007 European and Pan American Games. Lee also headed up football for Maccabi GB at the 2015 European Games in Berlin. Solomons, who co-managed with Lee at the 2007 Pan American and 2009 Maccabiah Games, is also no stranger to the Jewish sporting scene.

A stalwart player for London Maccabi Lions, Wingate & Finchley FC prior to managing Scrabble FC and North West Neasden FC in the Maccabi GB Southern Football League, Solomons knows what it takes to compete at international level. As a player and manager for Maccabi GB, he experienced the Maccabiah, European and Pan American Games on seven occasions. Fresh from the 20th Maccabiah, Lee and Solomons will be joined by Fegan, who represents Maccabi GB for the sixth time in Mexico. Fegan has a wealth of Maccabi GB coaching experience having worked with its football and futsal squads, securing three gold medals. “Unlike the Maccabiah and

European Games, there is an element of the unknown managing a team in South America,” said Lee, who together with Solomos led the Masters 35+ squad to a gold medal in Argentina in 2007. “Managing with Adam works well as we are similar minded and know what we want to achieve.” Trials are planned for March 2018 with selection confirmed by the end of the 2017/18 football season. “The period from selection to the tournament is 12 months,” said Lee. “Our aim is to create an experience for the squad that will encourage success on the pitch and lasting Maccabi GB memories off it.” Solomons added, “It is an honour to represent Maccabi GB at any time and to be part of a group

the goal-scoring front. Portugal’s Porto are no mugs, but Klopp’s front three of Salah-Firmino-Coutunho could be the key to a quarterfinal passage. As for the dual push from London, two big hitters stand in the way of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur. Barcelona might not be the force of recent times but with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez leading the line, Antonio Conte’s Blues are in for a severe test. But this is not the Barcelona of old, however, it is difficult to back against Messi and Co heading through to the next stage. Last, but by no means least, are Mauricio Pochettino’s exciting Tottenham outfit that stunned most neutrals in topping their group ahead of Real Madrid. Taking on the Italian champions

Juventus will be tough, but with sharpshooter Harry Kane leading the line, Tottenham, even at Wembley, will be a force, so this could finally be a final hurrah for Juve ‘keeper Gianluigi Buffon who is still chasing a winner’s accolade. Of course, it’s going to be tough for the record five English teams to progress to the knock out stages. Chelsea face the stiffest challenge just ahead of Tottenham, but four teams making the quarterfinals is not at all out of the question. And who, knows maybe the Blues can cause a shock. As for the defending champions, Real Madrid, who are looking for a 13th title and third on the bounce, they face a ‘crackerjack’ tie against Neymar’s Paris St Germain. Cristiano Ronaldo might have landed a fifth FIFA Ballon d’Or and is chasing a fifth winners

medal, but Real are not the Real of 12 months ago. However, their trump card could yet be Gareth Bale once fully fit. A Bale return to Wembley to face Tottenham in the quarterfinals would be a dream draw for The Spurs, but will Madrid make it through? In the other ties, Roma and Bayern Munich will be favourites to progress in their respective ties. It’s anyone guess though who will make the last eight, but if someone lands an eight team accumulator, now that would be a sweet feeling. Champions League last-16 draw Juventus v Tottenham (13 February and 7 March) Basel v Manchester City (13 February and 7 March) Porto v Liverpool (14 February and 6 March)

Darryl Lee

attending a games in Mexico for the first time is very exciting. “Having worked with Darryl on a number of occasions, I know he will leave no stone unturned to ensure the squad is fully prepared. “We will both do everything we can to make it a trip to remember.” Maccabi GB is recruiting Masters 45+ football players to represent Great Britain. Details: www.maccabigb.org/ panam

Chelsea and Tottenham face stiffest task in Champions League last 16 ties BY DAVID SAFFER

Whisper it quietly when it comes to the UEFA Champions League but there is a growing feeling amongst many football pundits that an English team could land the big one this season. Pep Guardiola’s runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City will certainly have no fear of a clash with Switzerland’s Basel; and José Mourinho will fancy Manchester United’s chances of prevailing against La Liga side Sevilla. This clash promises to be a tight affair but Mourinio’s boys should have enough power to prevail, especially if Paul Pogba is firing on all cylinders in midfield. Just down the ‘East Lancs Road’ and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool on their day is a match for anyone on

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Sevilla v Manchester United (21 February and 13 March) Real Madrid v PSG (14 February and 6 March) Shakhtar Donetsk v Roma (21 February and 13 March) Chelsea v Barcelona (20 February and 14 March) Bayern Munich v Besiktas (20 February and 14 March) The final takes place in Kiev on 26 May 2018.


14 DECEMBER 2017

Dan’s Premiere League Column BY DAN SILVER Battle of the heavyweights, local derby and fierce rivalry. Manchester United vs Manchester City was oozing with high expectations going into the game and it didn’t disappoint at all. Having watched the full game instead of revising for my GCSE mock the next day, let me tell you something, it was one hundred percent worth it. The way Manchester City attacked United, with constant pressure was truly impeccable to watch as City looked for their opening goal of the game and found it on the brink of half time thanks to man-of-the-match David Silva who hooked home from close range after confusion at a corner. Understandably, City thought they had closed out the half, only for United to be handed a lifeline in first-half stoppage time when poor defending from Nicolas Otamendi and Fabian Delph allowed Marcus Rashford to steal in for a composed finish. But, Otamendi made amends nine minutes after the break when Romelu Lukaku - who had an extremely poor game, especially for a player who cost the Red Devils £75M - lashed out a clearance in the area and the City defender pounced on the rebound to score. Even though I could focus on many matters in this game, I’d like to

SPORTS 29

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point out quality and when I say quality I mean the wizard, David Silva. Silva may be small in stature but he stood head and shoulders above every other player in the intense heat of this game and showed again why he deserves to be ranked as a Premier League great, and one of the finest players to play for City. He had more time on the ball than any other player, the hallmark of class, and always seemed to have more options in possession than any other player. Silva pounced for City’s crucial first goal, held his own in the physical exchanges and even shrugged off a heavy bang to the head in a clash with United’s Marcos Rojo. It was a complete performance from a world-class player. The Merseyside derby has produced absolute belters of a game but never before have I seen such a game where one team would dominate (and I can’t physically express how much they dominated) in such a crucial game to not only the club, but most importantly to the fans, who can claim their bragging rights over their noisy neighbours. This is why I’m even more astounded as to how the game ended up 1-1 when Liverpool’s attacking prowess has been on fire this season and Everton’s defence looking shaky from their treacherous start to the season. Nevertheless, the game ended up all evens, with the

Reds’ manager Jurgen Klopp accusing referee Craig Pawson of “opening the door” for Everton considering the domination they inflicted on Everton the whole game, which proved to just not be enough. Other results include struggling West Ham’s shock 1-0 win over reigning champions Chelsea, only for Chelsea to prove their ‘big club’ status when they were victorious over Huddersfield by 3 goals to one on Tuesday night. Crystal Palace scoring two late goals in a dramatic win over Watford moving them out of the Premier League relegation zone for the first time this season, also on Tuesday. And Burnley manager Sean Dyche exclaiming, and I must say I absolutely love this quote, “football is about dreams” after his side moved into fourth place in the Premier League with victory over Stoke at Turf Moor. But who could’ve guessed it that once again Newcastle would let me down after a late own goal against Leicester extended their poor run of form. It’s just not acceptable anymore and it hurts me to say this but the Magpies now have the worst run in the whole of the Premier League in the last six games, only picking up a measly ONE point out of a possible eighteen. Sometimes, Football does truly hurt, but that only makes it better for when you celebrate glory.

Sedgley Park Celtic v Reich (7-4)

Reich on the move

Sedgley Park on the attack PHOTO CREDIT: LAWRENCE PURCELL


30 JUDAISM

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

ASK THE RABBI Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com Did Trump make a mistake? Dear Rabbi, Last week you wrote in defence of Trump declaring Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Since then there have been attacks in Europe and a stabbing of a police officer in Israel. Do you still think it was worth it? Edgar Dear Edgar, They said if Jerusalem is declared the capital then it will scupper the peace process. What peace process? It’s been dead in the water for the past twenty years regardless of whatever deals were put on

the table. They said it would result in attacks on citizens. Really? Like there hasn’t been countless attacks and thousands of rockets fired into Israel over the past many years notwithstanding any declarations. So no, declaring Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, an already enshrined fact in law, has nothing to do with increased Muslim violence. The hard fact is that Muslims will not accept Israel’s right to exist – full stop. Jerusalem is just a convenient excuse and cover for that inconvenient fact. Muslims launched violence against Jews in Jerusalem for the sin of visiting Jewish holy sites long before Israel existed; they pushed for Israel’s annihilation long before Israel had control over Jerusalem;

they have turned down multiple peace offers including division of Jerusalem and opted for violence instead. And in Europe it’s just an excuse for ugly Anti-Semites to rear their heads and attack once more. Because remember, hating Jews is no longer politically correct. Hating Israel is the new, politically correct way to hate Jews. So don’t believe the lie that anti-Semitic Muslim regimes, populations and individuals require the pretext of Israeli sovereignty over the eternal capital of the Jewish people in order to excuse violence. They don’t.

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Aren’t latkes bad for your health? Dear Rabbi, I understand that we have some beautiful Jewish customs like eating latkes and doughnuts on Chanukah. But there is also a Jewish law of looking after one’s health. So how could we introduce unhealthy customs which override a Torah law? Neil Dear Neil, Ah, so you’ve had my mother-in-law’s latkes huh? Those cholesterol laden, oil filled, potato pancakes, can clog the arteries of an elephant. But they are, oh so amazingly delicious! Last night my wife went looking for the tray of doughnuts she prepared. When she looked at me accusatively I told her it was a Chanukah miracle. I thought I only had room in me to eat one doughnut. In the end, I had room for all eight. Jewish customs are beautiful and should never be disregarded just because they don’t conform to your moral sensibilities. There is such a thing as moderation. No one I know ever died from a doughnut. Go on, have one. You know you want to! Why must I struggle so much? Dear Rabbi,

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I am in my early thirties and life has been a real struggle for me socially and financially. In addition I suffered from bouts of ill health in my early teens. I just wonder to myself why G-d makes us go through so many struggles. Why can’t life just be a smooth ride? I know I don’t only speak for myself but many others out there who have to put up with so much. I am not questioning G-d. I’m just trying to get it. Geraldine Dear Geraldine, A man spent hours watching a butterfly struggling to emerge from its cocoon. It managed to make a small hole, but its body was too large to get through it. After a long struggle, it appeared

to be exhausted and remained absolutely still. The man decided to help the butterfly and cut open the cocoon and released the butterfly. However, the butterfly’s body was very small and wrinkled and its wings were all crumpled. The man continued to watch, hoping that, at any moment, the butterfly would widen its wings and fly away. Nothing happened; in fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its brief life dragging around its shrunken body and shrivelled wings, incapable of flight. What the man – out of his kindness and eagerness failed to understand was that the tight cocoon and the efforts that the butterfly would have needed to make in order to squeeze out of that tiny hole were part of G-d’s design in order to train the butterfly and strengthen its wings. Sometimes we experience challenges in life which weigh on us, leaving us feeling drained and beaten down. Why is the human experience riddled with challenge? The answer lies in the lesson of the fragile butterfly. Sometimes, what appears to us as a struggle is really there to strengthen us. All too often we are reluctant to make the effort as a result of which you never manage to fly off to your destiny. So Geraldine, pray for strength to overcome your obstacles and slay your dragons. But pray as well for the wisdom to see your challenges as necessary training ground for growth. Nothing of true value comes easily so stay the course and emerge triumphant.

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


14 DECEMBER 2017 Volume 30 No. 13

16 December 2017 Shabbat ends

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Miketz

JUDAISM 31

Parshat Miketz

Shabbat Chanukah Shabbat Mevarechim. Rosh Chodesh Tevet is on Monday and Tuesday. Artscroll p.222 | Maftir p.768 | Haftarah p.1210 Hertz p.155 | Maftir p.598 | Haftarah p.987 Soncino p.252 | Maftir p.829 | Haftarah p.857

In loving memory of Mordechai Avraham ben Nechemia

In loving memory of Mordechai Avraham ben Nechemia

Walking with G-d

by Rabbi David Lister, Edgware United Synagogue “Send the boy with me and we will get up and go. Then we will live and not die, we and you and our children!” (Bereishit 43:8) These words, spoken by Yehuda to his father Yaakov, come during tortuous and painful negotiations between Yaakov and his sons. Yaakov is mired in grief over his beloved son Yosef. So scarred is he by Aliya this loss that –he cannot12:1-23 bear to part with 1st (Kohen) Vayikra Binyamin, his other son fromwait Rachel. Butweeks Yosef After childbirth, a lady would several has told his brothers that he will not receive them before bringing an elevation offering (olah) and a or give them any food unless they bring Binyamin sin offering (chatat). This completed her post-birth with them back to Egypt. purification process. God told Moshe and Aharon that someone who At the beginning ofof this discussion, had the appearance a particular type Yehuda of skin does all the talking and Yaakov is almost disease (tzara’at) would have to show the white entirely silent. Yaakov’s simple request for food blemish to a Kohen. The Kohen would evaluate (43:2) is countered by Yehuda reiterating that and decide if the affliction was clearly tzara’at, unless Binyamin comes along, their journey thus rendering person impure (tameh). If the to Egypt will bethe in vain. case was unclear, the Kohen would quarantine the person in a house for seven days, after which Yaakov accuses Yehuda of harming him by the Kohen would re-inspect the afflicted area and divulging the existence of Binyamin, and Yehuda declare was tameh or tahor defendswhether himself the withperson such vigour that Yaakov is (pure). altogether silenced:

nothing more than personal responsibility for Binyamin’s safety. Yet something shifts in Yaakov’s mind and suddenly the story moves on. How did Yehuda do it? The Baal HaTurim (d. 1343) offers an interesting observation on the Hebrew text of Yehuda’s speech. He points out the last letters of the Hebrew words for ‘with me and we will get up and we will go then we will live’ spell the four letter Name of G-d, denoting Divine mercy. He comments laconically that three ‘G-d animal accompanies metzora would also bring offerings the righteous.’ and three meal offerings.

Sidrah Summary: Tazria-Metzorah

Sidrah SidrahSummary: Summary:Miketz Miketz 1st Aliya (Kohen) – Bereishit 41:1-14 Pharaoh dreams that he is by the River Nile, from which seven healthy cows emerge. Seven lean cows follow them out of the River and consume them. Pharaoh then dreams about seven good ears of grain on a stalk, which are swallowed up by seven thin ears growing after them. Pharaoh’s magicians cannot interpret the dream satisfactorily. The cupbearer, who had been imprisoned with Yosef, tells Pharaoh that Yosef reads dreams. Pharaoh summons Yosef from prison. 2nd Aliya (Levi) – 41:15-38 Pharaoh relates both dreams to Yosef, who explains that there will be seven years of plenty, followed by seven years of famine. He advises Pharaoh to appoint someone to oversee grain storage during the years of plenty. 3rd Aliya (Shlishi) – 41:39-52 Pharaoh appoints Yosef as viceroy of Egypt to implement his economic plan. Pharaoh gives Yosef his ring, dresses him in regal clothes, changes his name and gives him a lady called Asenat to marry. They have two sons, Menashe and Ephraim. Yosef organises mass grain storage during the seven years of plenty. Question: what name did Pharaoh give to Yosef? (41:45) Answer on bottom of next page. 4th Aliya (Revi’i) – 41:53-42:1 The famine begins and the Egyptians are starving. Yosef sells them spare provisions. There is also a famine in Cana’an. Yaakov tells his sons, apart from Binyamin, to go to buy food in Egypt. The sons arrive in Egypt. Yosef recognises them but they do not recognise him. Yosef accuses them of spying and imprisons them; they will only be released after one of them goes to fetch Binyamin. Point to Consider: why were Yosef’s brothers unable to recognise him? (see Rashi to 42:8) 5th Aliya (Chamishi) – 42:19-43:15 Three days later, Yosef changes the conditions. One of the brothers must stay in prison; the others must go to Cana’an to bring Binyamin. Yosef

imprisons Shimon and sends back the brothers with grain in their bags. Yosef also plants money in the bags. On their journey, Levi discovers the money in his bag and fears that Yosef will accuse them of theft (Rashi). The brothers arrive home and tell Yaakov their story. They discover that each one of them has money ‘planted’ in his bag. Yaakov refuses to let Binyamin go. Yehuda persists, guaranteeing Binyamin’s safety. Yaakov finally agrees, telling them to take a tribute for Yosef, in addition to the original ‘planted money’. 6th Aliya (Shishi) – 43:16-29 The brothers arrive in Egypt. Yosef instructs his chamberlain to invite his brothers to come in and eat a meal. Shimon is released. Yosef asks them if Yaakov is still alive. He identifies and blesses Binyamin. 7th Aliya (Shevi’i) – 43:30-44:17 Overcome with emotion, Yosef rushes to his room, cries, composes himself, then returns and gives them all food. Yosef orders them to be sent home, but has his own silver goblet ‘planted’ in Binyamin’s sack. Yosef’s chamberlain chases after them, accusing them of stealing the goblet. After denying the charge, they find the cup in Binyamin’s sack. They return to the palace. Yosef demands that Binyamin remain as his slave, allowing the others to leave. Yehuda says that they will all stay as slaves, not just Binyamin. Maftir (Bemidbar 7:30-41) The special Maftir reading for Chanukah is taken from parashat Pinchas, which details the offerings brought by the tribal heads to celebrate the inauguration of the Mishkan (Temple). Haftarah Yehoshua was the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) at the time of the inauguration of the second Temple. The prophet Zecharia describes an angel warning Yehoshua to listen to G-d's laws and perform the Temple services properly. The angel shows Yehoshua a Menorah with olive trees on either side of it, symbolising prosperity and spirituality.

1

Question: what were the three types of blemish called? (13:2) Answer onusbottom page 6. and ‘The man questioned aboutofourselves

2nd – 13:24-39 our Aliya place (Levi) of origin… Could we have guessed that would us to bring Binyamin along?’ (43:7) Ithe was alsotell possible for tzara’at to develop from a burn. Tzara’at could erupt on the scalp or on the beard area,well causing a loss the of hair. We can imagine mental paralysis gripping Yaakov at this moment. On the one 3rd Aliya (Shlishi) – 13:40-54 the different family must have otherwise they Ahand, slightly form of food tzara’at is detailed, will allcaused perish.a On thesubstantial other hand, lifeofwithout which more loss hair. A Binyamin(one would unbearable. After years of metzora whobe has been contaminated with misery over Yosef, he simply cannot take any tzara’at) was sent outside of the camp and had to more. tear his/her garments (see p4 article). Tzara’at could also infect clothing. A suspected garment Yehuda speaks again (in verse 8), breaking was quarantined before the Kohen madehisa father’s silence and the deadlock. He decision about whether it was tameh. If offers it was declared tameh, the garment was burnt. 4th Aliya (Revi’i) – 13:55-14:20 The Torah of details the processben through In memory Yaakov Yehoshua Ephraimwhich Hirscha 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 Yaakov ben Ephraim its memory blood seven timesYehoshua on the metzora. The

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Point to Consider: what is the significance of the Perhaps Yehuda’s gentle thread reminder to hyssop? Yaakov, on cedar wood, crimson and (see a Rashi level beneath to 14:4)open speech, is the turning point. Yaakov recalls that as much as G-d 5th Aliya (Chamishi) – 14:21-32 takes, He also protects and gives. Yosef had A metzora into who Egypt, could but not this afford animal disappeared did three not mean offerings could instead bring one animal offering, that G-d was no longer helping His people. one meal offering and two birds. 6th Aliya Thus the (Shishi) profound– 14:33-15:15 psychological drama of Tzara’at houses. The houseoffers owner the story also of affected Yosef and his brothers report the suspicious a Kohen. The uswould another insight into our signs own tolives. When house would between be evacuated before thepresent Kohen’s we are stuck an intolerable and an impossible would arrival. If the Kohenfuture, saw a we deep greendo or well deeptored recall that G-d ‘affliction’, he accompanies would order us. the Perhaps house tobybe putting our faith Him, He would will accompany us quarantined for in a week. then re-inspect onthe what looks likeaffliction an impossible task, the andinfected lead house. If the had spread, usstones on to unforeseen would be happiness. 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. Hirsch

Produced by US Living & Learning together with the Rabbinical Council of the United Synagogue Editor: Rabbi Chaim Gross Editor-in-Chief: Rabbi Baruch Davis Editorial Team: Ilana Epstein, Michael Laitner, Sharon Radley


Yet in the contemporary climate, perhaps the Furthermore, if values are subjective, based Yet in the contemporary climate, perhaps the Furthermore, if values are subjective, based concept of honouring parents in the first place on moral relativism, what right do parents have concept of honouring parents in the first place on moral relativism, what right do parents have needs reinforcing. There is a rapidly expanding to impart their values to their children – who needs There is a rapidly to impart their values to their children – who generation gap; technological and social media says thatreinforcing. parents’ perspectives on life expanding and the 32 JUDAISM  DECEMBER 2017 THE WEEKLY generation gap;teach technological and social media says that parents’14 perspectives on life and the advancements can make parents feelJEWISH 'out of lessons that they are any more 'valid' than advancements can make parents feel 'out of touch' with the younger generation. Some their lessons that they teach are any more 'valid' than children's perspectives? people may find it difficult to fully touch' with the younger generation. Some their children's perspectives? Bein Adam Lechaveiro Part 20:younger Honouring Parents Bein Adam Lechaveiro 20:younger Honouring may Parents harness the very notion of respectingPart parents. find it difficult The Torah people stresses honouring parents to as fully a (Kibud AvtheV’eim) (Kibud Av V’eim) Consider even following anecdote, which harness the very notion of respecting parents. critical building block in our lives. It is an The Torah stresses honouring parents as a took 30 years ago: by place Rabbi Daniel Fine, Community Rabbi, Stanmore Canons United Synagogue by Rabbi Daniel Fine, Community Rabbi, Stanmore &over Canons Park United Synagogue objective and aanecdote, responsibility. Consider&moral even standard thePark following which critical building block in our lives. It is an Parents are over encouraged toago: hand on that Godtookare place 30 years previous it We given the mitzvah to honour parents objective moral standard and a responsibility. In previous generations, it Rabbi We are given Kamenetsky theIn mitzvah honour Torah parents Yaakov (atogenerations, leading given baton to the next generation. may have been somewhat of for three reasons. First, they chose to be our Parents are encouraged to hand on that Godmay have been somewhat of authority for threeinreasons. First, they chose to be our America, d. 1986) was on a plane waste of words to us speak second,Kamenetsky they took care of us when a waste of words to speak with parents; second, took care passenger of whenparents; Rabbi Yaakov (a leading Torah given baton to the next generation. his son. Theathey neighbouring about honouring one's were inyoung; third, they taught and about honouring one's noticed we were young; third, they taught us andwe authority America, d. 1986) was on us a plane Rabbi Kamenetsky’s son attending parents. respecting served as role models. If one were parents. After all, respecting to(hopefully) served as need role After models. If onehim were(hopefully) his father’s every and all, treating with his son. The neighbouring passenger parents and isarguments understood toThe be extend evolutionary arguments to their parents is understood to be with to extend evolutionary theirto tremendous respect reverence.to noticed Rabbi Kamenetsky’s son attending 'mishpat' – aare lawmotorised which remarked to our Rabbi Yaakov that he extreme, to say that our lives are motorised a 'mishpat' – a law which passenger extreme, to say athat lives to his father’s every need and treating him logical to the extent his own son behaved this–and way: “my son combinations of chemical and biological seems logical – to the extent wished combinations ofseems chemical biological with tremendous respect and reverence. The that it he is not limited Jews. In fact, the is far beyond respecting me one like of that; reactions, with noto free will decisions, whyreactions, with no free will decisions, why that it is not limited to Jews. In fact, one of the thinks remarked to Rabbi Yaakov that he Talmud’s prime examples of honouring parents should children honour parents? If there is thinkschildren that I am the one who should be is passenger Talmud’s prime examples of honouring parents he should honour parents? If there refers tohim!” a non-Jew who refused to wake up his no real free will, son the parents’ 'decision' to have wished his own behaved this way: “my son serving Rabbi Yaakov responded quickly refers to a non-Jew who refused to wake up his no real free will, the parents’ 'decision' to have father, despite having the opportunity sell an children was not really theirs in the first place –it insightfully: “If you believe in toradical father, despite having the opportunity to sell an and children was not really theirs in the first place –it thinks he is far beyond respecting me like that; expensive item for which he needed to wake up was a series of chemical reactions that that means that, as reactions generations expensive item for which he needed to wake up evolution was a –series of chemical that he thinks that I am the one who should be his father your (Kiddushin 31a). ‘caused’ this 'choice'. improve, son is less ape-like than you. serving him!” Rabbi Yaakov responded quickly his father (Kiddushin 31a). ‘caused’ this 'choice'. Why would he respect you? But we believe and insightfully: “If you believe in radical in giving of the Torah, and perhaps that each Yetthe in the contemporary climate, the Furthermore, if values subjective, based evolution – that meansarethat, as generations Yet in the contemporary climate, perhaps the generation Furthermore, if emerges values are subjective, basedon is one stepfirst further concept of that honouring parents in the place moral relativism, what right do parents have improve, your son is less ape-like than you. concept of honouring parents in the first place away on moral relativism, whatisSinai right do parents have from the Mount experience – to impart their values to their children – who needs reinforcing. There a rapidly expanding Why would he respect you? But we believe needs reinforcing. There is a rapidly expanding therefore to impart their values to their children – who mygap; son respects me”. and social media says that parents’ perspectives on life and the generation technological Rabbi Yaakov 1986) in the giving of Kamenetsky the Torah, (d.and that each generation gap; technological and social media advancements says that parents’ life 'out and of thelessons can perspectives make parentsonfeel that they teach are any more 'valid' than advancements can make parents feel 'out of touch' generation that emerges is one step further lessons with that they teach are any more 'valid' than the younger generation. Some their children's perspectives? touch' with the younger generation. Some younger children's perspectives? people may find it HaCohen difficult to fully away from the Mount Sinai experience –4 Intheir memory of Yehuda ben Yaakov younger people may find it difficult to fully harness the very notion of respecting parents. therefore my son respects me”. Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky (d. 1986) harness the very notion of respecting parents. Consider even the following anecdote, which The Torah stresses honouring parents as a The Torah stresses honouring parents as acritical building block in our lives. It is an Consider even the following anecdote, which took place over 30 years ago: critical building block in our lives. It is anobjective moral standard and a responsibility. took place over 30 years ago: objective moral standard and a responsibility.Parents areof encouraged to hand on that GodIn memory Yehuda ben Yaakov HaCohen memory Yaakov HaCohen Rabbi Kamenetsky (a leading ParentsYaakov are encouraged to hand on thatTorah God-In given baton of to Yehuda the next ben generation. Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky (a leading Torah authority in America, d. generation. 1986) was on a plane given baton to the next authority in America, d. 1986) was on a plane with his son. The neighbouring passenger Insights into Jewish History Part 89: Shimon’s Rule Chanukah: Steadfast with his son. Remaining The neighbouring passenger noticed Rabbi Kamenetsky’s son attending to United his father’s every need and treating him by Rebbetzen Ilana Epstein, Cockfosters & N Southgate United Synagogue; by RabbiRabbi Ben Kurzer, Assistantson Rabbi, Edgware Synagogue noticed Kamenetsky’s attending to his father’s every need and treating him with tremendous respect and reverence. The Head of Project Development, US Living & Learning with tremendous respect and reverence. The passenger remarked to Rabbi Yaakov that he After murdering Yonatan the Shimon’s largest job was to reform the Accra wished law). his own this way: “my He son was behaved asked his position on son As all Harry Potter fans will passenger remarked to Rabbi Yaakov that in he Jewish Hasmonean, Tryphon – the citadel in Jerusalem, located just south of the thinks he is farchild beyond me like in the words of “my the son giving a Jewish an respecting English name; histhat; wished his ownknow, son behaved this way: usurper to the Seleucid Temple. Since the early days of the Greek he thinks that I am one who should be philosopherme like and that; response is insightful. Afterthe extolling the virtues thinks he is farfamous beyond respecting throne – was repeatedly Seleucid dominion over the Land, the citadel had servingnames, him!” Rabbi Yaakov respondedthat quickly Professor Albus be of Jewish he states unequivocally he thinks that headmaster, I am the one who should thwarted by Yonatan’s acted as the main base of operations of the and insightfully: “If you believe in radical Dumbledore, “It is our choices the praise our Sages gave to those in Egypt for serving him!” Rabbi Yaakov responded quickly brother Shimon, the sole Hellenised Jewish population of Jerusalem. The evolutionin – such that means generations that “If show whatbelieve we truly in are”.radical separating externalthat, waysas (clothes, and insightfully: you surviving son of Mattityahu. people of the citadel often attacked traditional improve, sonwas is because less ape-like language and your names) at thatthan timeyou. evolution – that means that, as generations Chanukah was not just a there Tryphon relinquished his worshippers on their journey to the Temple. Why would he respect you? But we believe was no Torah to differentiate us. However, improve, your son is less ape-like than you. battle between the Jews and the Greeks, it was since in the the giving givingofofthethe Torah, and that Torah, explains Rabbieach position and escaped back to his home town, Why would he respect you? But we believe also an internal struggle between traditional Jews Feinstein, that emerges isfeature one of step further Apamea, Syria. In total despair, he eventually Shimon roused the people not just to demolish the true distinguishing a Jew in the giving of the Torah, and that each generation and the ‘mityavnim’ – the Hellenised Jews who is inaway the citadel, but also the mountain upon which it fromcommitment the Mount Sinai experience fact their to the Torah and its – took his own life. generation that emerges is one step further had assimilated and forsaken their Jewish mitzvot. was built. The Book of Maccabees states that therefore my son respects me”. away When from considering the Mount – Rabbi Kamenetsky (d. Judeans 1986) identity. thisSinai divide,experience we might Shimon was Yaakov now poised to rule the and people worked for three years without a break to therefore mycategory son respects me”.fall into today. Yet perhaps there is still a figurative message in wonder which we would he approached the task with determination and level the building and the mountain. From then Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky (d. 1986) Are we going to uphold our ancient traditions the praise given to the Jews of Egypt, that force. He began his campaign by rallying the 4on, the tallest edifice in the city was the Temple, In memory of Yehuda ben Yaakov HaCohen going forward or will we disappear into an provides a lesson for all of us today. If we want to people around him, informing the Jews of Judea rather than the citadel. retain our Jewish identity and ensure that it is assimilated In memorymass? of Yehuda ben Yaakov HaCohen of4the great good that his father and brothers had passed on to the generations that come after us, done on behalf of the people, about how each Referring to Shimon’s rule, the Book of This question is strengthened when we look at we need to consider how much we really one of them had paid with his life for fighting for Maccabees movingly states: “Then did they this week’s sidrah, Miketz, which describes embody the timeless lessons of our tradition in the rights of the Jews to worship freely in their till their ground in peace, and the earth gave Yosef’s experiences in Egypt, including his three particular areas. own Land and Temple. her increase, and the trees of the field their ascendancy to the top of the most powerful fruit. The ancient men sat also in the streets, nation of the time. Having arrived in Egypt at a Firstly, the ‘clothes’ that we wear – do we carry Shimon systematically went through the Land, communing together of good things… He relatively young age, with no family (having been ourselves in a way that promotes the values we liberating cities and putting in place governments [Shimon] made peace in the lands, and Israel abandoned by them), it would have been hold? that fell in line with Judean rule. He started rejoiced with great joy: for every man sat under understandable if Yosef had discarded his by renewing the Judean peace treaty with his vine and his fig-tree, and there was none Secondly, what ‘name’ are we building for traditions. Yet Yosef remained steadfast and Demetrius, who was now back on the throne as to fray them: neither was there any left in the land strong, even espousing his belief in G-d in front ourselves? Do we have a reputation that lives up the rightful heir to the Seleucid kingdom, and to fight against them… He beautified the Temple, to G-d's description of us as a “kingdom of of Pharaoh (Bereishit 41:16). renewing the Judean alliance with the Roman and multiplied the vessels of the Temple” (Book priests and a holy nation” (Shemot 19:6)? of Maccabees 14:8-15). Republic. This kind of strength was not exclusive to Yosef. The Midrash relates that despite the challenges Finally, what is the common ‘language’ that we share with our family and friends? Is our that faced the Israelites when they were enslaved With these assurances in place, Shimon restored in Egypt, they were redeemed by G-d because religion part of the relationships that we build or proper religious values to the city of Gaza , which they kept themselves separate. Specifically, they is it tangential? had long been a centre of idol worship. Shimon distinguished themselves in three ways – with and his men entered the city and dispatched the Hellenistic city leaders. In their place Shimon their clothes, their language and their names. appointed loyal men who made sure there was Again, this may leave us wondering about no idol worship. ourselves – if we follow modern fashion, speak English and have Anglicised names, does that From Gaza, Shimon made his way to the port mean that we are the type of Jew that would city of Yaffo (Jaffa), securing it so it could once have been left behind in Egypt? Have we fallen more become the main port city for Judea and into the trap of assimilating to the extent that we ensuring that its fortifications were in place risk losing our Jewish identity? Coin of Diodotus Tryphon. and able to defend itself if need be. British Museum Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (d. 1986) addresses this question in one of his responsa (written opinions

Bein Adam Lechaveiro Part 20: Honouring Parents (Kibud Av V’eim) by Rabbi Daniel Fine, Community Rabbi, Stanmore & Canons Park United Synagogue

4

Answer: Tsafenat-Paneach

memory of Yisrael Shmuel ben Yirmaya Yehoshuah InInmemory of Yisrael Shmuel ben Yirmaya Yehoshuah

5

In of of Miryam Frumit ben Shimon Inmemory memory Miryam Frumit ben Shimon

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14 DECEMBER 2017

Chanukah In this week’s D’var Torah, the Chief Rabbi teaches that we learn from the festival of Chanukah that dedication and education must go hand in hand. Dedication and education must go hand in hand. The words chanukah meaning dedication

Tehillim Psalm 33 This Psalm is highly recognisable to us as we say it each Shabbat during the extended Pesukei Dezimrah. King David was known as a musical genius and throughout the entire book of Tehillim, there are many references to songs and instruments. Music played a big part in his connection to Hashem. He starts this week’s psalm by telling us to ‘sing joyfully to Hashem.. and to give thanks with a harp and a ten-stringed lyre.’ He asks us to ‘sing a song that is new,’ and to ‘play (our instruments) well, with deep emotion.’ We all know that music is the language of the soul, and using music to come closer to G-d and appreciate his wonders can end up making people become as righteous as King David. King David goes on to say, ‘the kindness of Hashem fills the earth.’ One only has to look around at the world to see the brilliance of our creator. From the multitudes of fish that fill the very depths of the sea, all with their own ingenious little ways to defy their predators and survive, to the snow found at the highest of mountain peaks, where each individual snowflake is completely different to the next! ‘For He spoke, and it came to be, He commanded and it endured.’ Hashem made this brilliant world with simple

JUDAISM 33

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and chinuch meaning education come from the same Hebrew root and this makes so much sense. In order for education to be impactful and successful it must be accompanied by the dedication of a community to create and sustain educational institutions: the dedication of members of their staff, the dedication of

students. At the same time, dedication needs to be accompanied by education. I am always so inspired by people who are passionate about a particular cause, people who are willing to raise their heads above the parapet to fight their corner for the sake of valued principles. I am always so inspired by people who are passionate about a particular cause, people who are willing to raise their heads above the parapet to fight their corner for the sake of valued principles. However, if they are misinformed, if they haven’t been educated properly, it is quite possible that all of that passion, all of that enthusiasm and dedication, could be a waste of time – or make the situation worse. With regard to the festival of Chanukah I believe we should seriously contemplate on the connection between Chanukah and chinuch. When recalling all that transpired ‘bayamim hahem bazman hazeh – in those days at this time’ – we recognize, first and foremost, the hand of Hashem and that is why we kindle the lights of the chanukiah, to recall how Hashem miraculously intervened to save our people. That is something that the Maccabim realized:

This tehillim is for a refuah shelema for Shalom ben Gracia

their name Maccabi is taken from the verse ‘mi kamocha ba’elim Hashem – who is like you amongst the powers Hashem.’ We also recognise the bravery and the dedication shown by the Jewish fighters. That was informed by education, it is only because they were aware of their tradition and they were knowledgeable about the values of their faith that they were able to say this was something to fight for – this was something to live for. The Greeks tried to extinguish the flame of Jewish life through their efforts to force us to assimilate into the predominant Hellenist culture of that time and as we have always known, the greatest weapon against assimilation is education. The greatest weapon against assimilation is education. Therefore at Chanukah time, let us be acutely aware of the crucial importance of Jewish education. Chanukah and chinuch must always go hand in hand. No wonder that our sages taught ‘talmud torah k’neged kulam’ – the study of Torah, Jewish education, must always be our top priority. Shabbat shalom and Chanukah Sameach.

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words, and it is right that at this joyful time of Chanukah, when we sing Hallel every day, that we have in mind to follow King David’s lead and sing our praises to G-d for this beautiful world.

To sponsor a Tehillim for £54 call 0203 906 8488 or email office@thejewishweekly.com

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Koach Hatorah International and its President Reb Michoel Streicher Had a tremendous influence to elect Donald Trump as our President of the United States. Is currently on the Republican National Committee Presidential Advisory Board. Wants to use his powerful! connection with The White House to pardon Sholom Rubashkin and Mordchai Samet and many other Jewish so called White Collar Criminals that have been incarcerated by ridiculous life sentences since the courts are ignoring the whole situation. We beg the public to please sign the bottom petition and to send it back either by mail to: Michoel Streicher, The Hill Medical Centre, 2A North Field Road, London, Nl 6 SRN or scan and email to koachatorah@gmail.com

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On behalf of the Nation of Israel, we are pleading to you to pardon Shalom Rubashkin and Mordechai Samet and other Jewish so called White Collar Criminals who were given unfair life sentences in jail, while the previous Government had pardoned thousands of mass criminals. We pray to the Almighty that you will be the right messenger to release them and may G-d grant you another 4 years as President and serving as the greatest president for a full 8 year term, Koach Hatorah International President Michael Streicher

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36 KIDS

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14 DECEMBER 2017

Parshat Miketz Shabbat Chanukah Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is extremely upset. He has had two dreams; one in which he sees seven fat cows swallowed by seven skinny cows, and one in which seven fat ears of grain are swallowed by seven lean ears. He doesn’t understand what they mean? The butler tells Pharaoh of Yosef who he met in Prison and Pharaoh releases Yosef from Prison. Yosef comes to his palace to explain the dreams.Yosef explains there will be seven years of plenty of food in the land which will be followed by seven years of famine and hunger, meaning no food will grow! Yosef is hired as governor of Egypt and in charge of storing food for the years ahead. Yosef marries Asenath and they have two sons, Menashe and Ephraim. Yaacov and his sons are starving, because the famine is severe and they don't have food, so he sends them to Egypt to buy food, but Yaacov keeps his youngest son Benyamin at home because he is worried for his safety. Yosef recognises his brothers immediately but they have no idea who he is as he looks different. Yosef accuses them of being spies, and says he will not believe that they are innocent until they bring back Benyamin. The brothers then go back to Canaan to get Benyamin. Shimon is put into prison by Yosef to ensure that the brothers come back. In Canaan, Yaacov eventually agrees for Benyamin to go, as he is responsible for Shimon. This time, Yosef is very nice to them and invites them for dinner at his palace. He tells one of his servants to put his silver goblet in Benyamin’s bag. When the brothers try to leave the next morning, Yosef sends his messenger after them. The brothers are shocked and horrified. Yosef says that as punishment for the theft, he will take Benyamin as a slave. The brothers know that they cannot return without Benyamin. What will happen now?

HOW TO PLAY THE DREIDEL GAME!

1. Each player begins the game with an equal number of game pieces (about 10-15) such as pennies, chocolate gelt, raisins, sweets, etc. 2. At the beginning of each round, every participant puts one game piece into the center “pot.” In addition, every time the pot is empty or has only one game piece left, every player should put one in the pot. 3. Every time it’s your turn, spin the dreidel once. Depending on the side it lands on, you give or get game pieces from the pot. a) Nun means “nisht” or “nothing.” The player does nothing. b) Gimel means “gantz” or “everything.” The player gets everything in the pot. c) Hey means “halb” or “half.” The player gets half of the pot. (If there is an odd number of pieces in the pot, the player takes half of the total plus one). d) Shin (outside of Israel) means “shtel” or “put in.” Peh (in Israel) also means “put in.” The player adds a game piece to the pot. 4. If you find that you have no game pieces left, you are either “out” or may ask a fellow player for a “loan.”

Arts and Crafts Cow Book Mark

You will need

• 1 popsicle stick • 2 googly eyes • White, pink and green card • 1 black marker or felt tip • Glue and scissors

Method 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Draw the shape of the cows head and ears onto the white card and cut around with scissors. (You can trace the photo from the newspaper with tracing paper first to make it easier.) Draw the shape of the cows mouth onto the pink card and cut around. Stick the mouth on top of the head, stick the googly eyes on and stick the popsicle stick underneath. Add the detail with the black marker to make it look like a cow. Cut the green card into very thin short strips and bend over a few times. Unbend and stick to give a grass affect. THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM


14 DECEMBER 2017

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CUT OUT & KEEP

Ingredients: • • • • •

KIDS 37

TO CREATE YOUR VERY OWN JEWISH WEEKLY RECIPE BOOK

Cinnamon Milkshake

½ Tbsp of vanilla extract 1 cup of cold milk or soya milk ¼ Tbsp of cinnamon powder Nutmeg powder, to taste 2 cups of vanilla ice cream

Method: 1. Put all the ingredients, except the nutmeg powder in a blender. Churn until smooth. 2. Pour the shake into a tall glass and garnish with nutmeg powder.

EXTRA CHANUKAH RECIPE

PB & J Dreidels

Turn a simple peanut butter and jam sandwich into fun-sized, edible dreidels! Don’t forget the strawberry Hebrew letters!

Ingredients:

• • • •

Slice of bread Peanut butter Jam 3 strawberries, cut in half for the Hebrew letters on top • Pretzel sticks

Method: 1. Spread peanut butter on half the pieces of bread and peanut butter on the other half. 2. Cut the crusts off and slice in half. Cut the edges off for the dreidel shapes. 3. Using a knife, cut out the Hebrew letters into the strawberries and place on top. 4. Stick a pretzel stick into the tops of each and enjoy!

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14 DECEMBER 2017

KIDS 39

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Did y u kn w? 10 Chanukah words you should know! DREIDEL - Yiddish for “spinning top.” A dreidel is a pointed, foursided top which can be made to spin on its pointed base. Also known in Hebrew as sevivon.

SUFGANIYOT - A sufganiyah is a round jelly doughnut eaten in Israel and around the world, especially on Chanukah. The plural of sufganiyah is sufganiyot.

CHANUKIAH - A nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight days of Chanukah. Also known as a ‘Menorah’ which is traditionally a seven-branched menorah which was lit in the Temple.

SHAMASH The candle used to light the Chanukah candles. The shamash should be placed on a different height to the other candles.

LATKES – Potato pancakes fried in oil, traditionally eaten on Chanukah.

MACABEES The Jewish army that revolted against the Syrian-Greek occupation in 139 BCE, whose miraculous victory culminated in the festival of Chanukah.

SHEMEN ZAYIT ZACH Pure, pressed olive oil. Using this oil is the best way to light your menorah.

FREILICHEN CHANUKAH – The traditional greeting Jews around the world use to greet each other.

CHANUKAH GELTMonetary gifts given on Hanukkah.

CHASHMONAIM – This is translated as the ‘Hasmoneans’. They were a priestly family who led the Maccabee armies in the battle against the Greeks. They later became the kings of the Kingdom of Judea.

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14 DECEMBER 2017

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Parshat Miketz Shabbat Chanukah In a Nutshell In this week’s parshah,the Butler recalls that Yosef can explain dreams and tells Pharaoh; who releases him from prison. Pharaoh dreams of seven fat cows that are swallowed up by seven lean cows, and of seven fat ears of grain swallowed by seven lean ears. Yosef interprets the dreams to mean that seven years of plenty will be followed by

seven years of hunger, and advises Pharaoh to store food during the plentiful years. Pharaoh appoints Yosef governor of Egypt. Yosef marries Asenath, the daughter of Potiphar, and they have two sons, Manashe and Ephraim. Famine spreads throughout the region, and food can be obtained only in Egypt. Ten of Yosef’s brothers come to Egypt to purchase grain; the

youngest, Benyamin, stays home, as Yaacov fears for his safety. Yosef recognises his brothers, but they do not recognise him; he accuses them of being spies, insists that they bring Benyamin to prove that they are who they say they are, and imprisons Shimon as a hostage. Later, they discover that the money they paid for their provisions has

been mysteriously returned to them. Yaacov agrees to send Benyamin only after Yehuda assumes personal and eternal responsibility for him. This time, Yosef receives them kindly, releases Shimon, and invites them to an eventful dinner at his home. But then he plants his silver goblet, in Benyamin’s sack. When the brothers set out for home the next morning,

they are pursued, searched, and arrested when the goblet is discovered. Yosef offers to set them free and retain only Benyamin as his slave... What will they do?... This week is also Shabbat Chanukah. The Hebrew word ‘Chanukah’ means dedication. In a similar way, the Chanukah Torah reading discusses the dedication of the desert Tabernacle.

5 tips for a great Chanukah party 2

1

DECOR

First impressions count, so making sure that the way your house looks is essential to a great Chanukah party. Chanukah themed banners, plates, cutlery, tablecloths and confetti are a great way to make the place look great.

GAMES Contrary to what it might look like, you don’t actually have to gamble away your savings playing dreidel. The whole point is to play for chocolate gelt or coins. Buy a multipack of plastic dreidels at a reasonable price just in case you lose some.

4

5 FOOD

3

MUSIC

Belt out your loudest rendition of HaNerot Halalu, Ma’oz Tsur and all the chanukah songs you can think of. When your throats hurt, let the speakers take over.

A MENORAH Lighting the Menorah is the key activity during any Chanukah party. Make sure you have the menorah polished and the oil, wicks or candles are in place before the party starts!

If your kitchen doesn’t smell like the inside of a deep fryer, you’re doing it wrong. Chanukah staples include oil-heavy latkes and soufganyot (donoughts). The main meal is typically meat-free and pretty dairy-centric, so how about serve some cheese blintzes and some other tasty snacks too.

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YOUTH 41

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News Bites QUEENSLAND POLICE PYTHON PHOTO GAINS FAME A photo of an Australian police officer encountering a python has drawn a large reaction on social media. The officer and his partner were on a night patrol in northern Queensland when they came across the “monster” scrub python on a road, police said. Spotting an opportunity, the officers snapped a picture with the reptile. “Fair to say that the snake was over five metres [long] but not really the

type of reptile that you want to take a tape measure to,” police told the BBC. Queensland police shared the photo, taken earlier this year, across its social media accounts on Monday. They said it had since received more than two million views and 10,000 comments. “We don’t do boring,” the post read. “You never really know what you are going to come across in a single shift.”

KEEP CALM AND ASK

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

GAMBIA DENIES HOSTING RUSSIAN IMPERIAL REVIVAL BID The Gambia has become the latest country to deny that it is selling a Siberian businessman land for his plan to revive the Russian monarchy. The Gambia “has not signed any memorandum of understanding with the Romanov Empire represented by Arch Chancellor Prince Anton Bakov,” the Gambian president’s website says.

Mr Bakov told reporters back home that The Gambia had agreed to let him build artificial islands on its Bijol islets as a base for his Romanov Empire micro-state, in return for $60m (£44.8m) and use of the proposed hi-tech “smart city” of Saint Nicholas, the Argumenty i Fakty website reports. But the Gambian government says it did not agree to Mr Bakov’s

proposal during his visit last month.

JAPAN ENFORCES NEW ROAD RULES FOR ‘MARIO KART’ DRIVERS Japan is to introduce new traffic laws to deal with the fad for fancy dress go-kart tours on the streets of Tokyo, it’s reported. Tourists who go on the tours dressed as characters from the Mario Kart video games will have to wear seatbelts, while operators will have to update their motorised carts to improve safety standards, the Japan Times reports. A legal loophole in the Road Transport Vehicle Act means that go-carts are currently classified as both scooters and four-wheel cars. Scooter drivers in the country are not required to wear seatbelts, and drivers of cars don’t need a helmet, the Nikkei news website notes.

Dear Agony Uncle Joey, I’m finding it so hard to get out of bed with the cold weather outside. Just the thought of it makes me shiver. In the summer, I’m the type of person that loves to be out and about and enjoy mysef. But now that it’s cold, I just want to stay at home under my covers with a warm wooly jumper. Unfortunatly, this is getting me a little depressed and down. On a Sunday I just stay at home all day and don’t go out with my friends or family and during the week I am constantly late.

Earlier this year, it was reported that tour operators were being urged to improve safety standards following a spate of accidents, but now the authorities feel that only new regulations will suffice. The transport ministry says that

operators should safeguard gokarts by adding headrests, direction indicators, rear-view mirrors, and a red light at least one metre from the ground, in order to make karts more visible to other road users.

Dark, cold mornings can make getting out of bed a harder task than it already is. Consult your doctor if you think you may have Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This a type of depression that usually strikes during the winter and affects plenty of people. It is thought to be caused by lack of sunlight. A light box such as a ‘Lumie‘ will help to adjust your body clock with bright light. It will not only help you feel more awake in the morning, but also lift your mood, energy and productivity all day. Another easy tip is to choose your clothes the night before and hang them on the radiator, as well as your coat, hat, scarf and gloves.

Ilai

Furthermore, Making time for a warm breakfast will do you justice. Some eggs and toast or porridge with a hot cup of tea can make you feel a lot better and ready to start the day ahead!

Hi Ilai,

Cheer up and warm up,

It has been very cold out there! Especially this week with the snow and ice!

Uncle Joey

Any tips?

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14 DECEMBER 2017

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Q:Why do pandas like old movies? A: Because they are black and white.

Q: What is a horse’s favorite sport? A: Stable tennis! (Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

Q: How does a bird with a broken wing manage to land safely? A: With its sparrowchute.

1. I love to dance and twist and prance, I shake my tail, as away I sail, wingless I fly into the sky. What am I? 2. What can be seen in the middle of March and April that cannot be seen at the beginning or end of either month?

2. The letter ‘r’ 3.

1. One step forward two steps back 2. Cornerstone 3. Dipstick 4. Parting of the ways 5. Missing in action 6. Equal rights

Dingbats Answers THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

1. A kite

Footsteps

3. The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?

Knock, knock. Who’s there? Lettuce. Lettuce who? Lettuce in it’s cold out here.


14 DECEMBER 2017

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YOUTH 43

Running Out Of Time

BY CHAYA SANDLER Recap: After being arrested by the time police, they were given 24 hours to return Charles Dickens and Lord Griffindor to their own time zones and destroy the time machine. Accidentally arriving home 24 hours too late, Toby and Elliot were arrested. Griff escaped with Toby’s sister Talia and are under house arrest in Danny’s apartment. Since he cannot leave he is sucked into their saga. “Well this is a nice change of scenery.” “It’s a prison cell.” “I was being sarcastic.” “Oh. I thought it was quite nice actually.” Toby gawked at Elliot. “I will never understand you... moving on, we need to get out of here. It should be a cinch. I’ve seen them do it on TV loads of times. We could jump the guards when they come in!” Toby peered through the bars of the cell, “or not.” He sighed, “I don’t have a clue. let’s hope Griff and Talia have a brilliant plan to rescue us.” -------------------------------“I don’t have a clue. Let’s hope Toby and Elliot have a brilliant plan to rescue us.” Talia was hanging upside down from Danny’s couch. She claimed it helped her think and stay calm. Danny thought it made her look weird. Then again, this whole situation was weird. He had never actually wanted to go on an adventure and one had just walked through the door, sat on the couch and refused to leave. The adventure in question was still flicking through a book. Griff, Lord Griffindor, had his feet on the coffee table as

PART 2 if there weren’t 48 time police outside the door waiting for a replacement time jumper to transport them to their execution. Suddenly Talia sat up and snapped her fingers. “Elliot said he got the blueprint for the time machine off the net.” “Even if we find these plans on this invisible net of which you have spoken of, the Interera court will find us no matter where we flee my lady.” “I wasn’t suggesting we build a time machine Hufflepuff, I was going to ask how the plans for a time machine ended up on the net in the first place.” Griff finally looked

up from his book. He jumped up heroically and somersaulted up onto the table. He stared at Talia. “The Interera court sabotage any attempts at time travel and any scientist capable of unraveling the intricate mysterious of father time’s mysterious domain is recruited for their cause. We must find this scientist forthwith and discover how he has evaded their clutches.” Talia rolled her eyes and turned to Danny. “They so needed twitter in the 1700’s. Imagine how much better Shakespeare would have been if he had had to write a sonnet in 140 characters. So many innocents would

have been spared. “ “I like Shakespeare!” Danny protested. Talia regarded him sadly. “You need to get out more.” “I did get out! Until you two barged in here under house arrest and put my life in danger and involved me in a plot straight out of... I don’t know.... some sort of rubbishy written fantasy!” “No need to thank us,” Talia beamed. “I didn’t mean... forget it. So are we just going to google how to build a time machine?” “What is gogole?” inquired Griff. Two hours and 8,462 search results later, they found what they were looking for. Under “Contact us” was a cryptic message. -------------------------------I KNOW WHAT YOU SEEK, FOLLOW THE STEPS BELOW. The steps below turned out to be pages and pages of equations. “Well we’re dead,” Talia piped up cheerfully, “along with Toby and Elliot.” “If we die tonight my friends, let us die as men- or women my lady,” Griff drew his sword gallantly and raised it in the air, “we fight to the bitter end!” “Or not,” said Danny interrupted, running a finger through his ginger frizz.. I’m taking a degree in quantum physics, I think I can read this.... it’s a way to blow a hole in the time space continuum and reach a point outside of the rest of time. I think this scientist wants us to meet him.” “Or she,” Talia insisted, “anyway that doesn’t make any sense.” “Its quantum physics, it’s not supposed to make sense...... I’m going to need to make a formula and if we run an electric current through it we can rip a hole in the fabric of

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the universe. Yeah, it makes no sense. Then again, neither has anything else tonight so I guess it fits. It seems more like magic than science.” “Maybe it is magic?” “Hufflepuff there’s no such thing.” “And yet I stand 300 years in my future reading words that appear on a stone when the user wills it.”

“The internet isn’t magic! And the time travel stuff can’t be either.” “Why not my lady?” “Because magic doesn’t exist! It can’t.” “Um. actually, there used to be “magic”, in the times of the first temple the sages got rid of it but there are remnants, like Kabbalah.” “Weasley, are you telling me you think this guy is a Rabbi?” “No, but he could have some kabbalistic knowledge somehow. Either way, what Griff calls magic isn’t so far fetched.” “But this stuff is ridiculous!” “Yeah, it does sound like something out of a badly written story conceived at half one in the morning but then a lot of life is like that. TO BE CONTINUED Shall we begin?”


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14 DECEMBER 2017

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W oman of W orth

REBBETZEN ‫ ֵֽא ׁ ֶשת ַֽחיִ ל ִמי יִ ְמ ָצא‬FREDA KAPLAN

Community Rebbetzen Freda Kaplan was born in Edgware, but moved to Israel with her family when she was sixteen. Whilst living there she completed her studies, did her army service, and also met and married her husband, Dov. Throughout their 33 year marriage they have lived and worked in various communities around the world including Israel, Colombia, and the UK, and for the past 6 ½ years, they have been based at Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue (HGSS) providing spiritual leadership and guidance to the community. She believes that being a community Rebbetzen is a very interesting and enjoyable role, which offers lots of opportunities. “For me, I feel that it is a privilege to be able to interact with so many people, to surprise, but to always be surprised.” As part of the Hampstead Garden

Suburb Synagogue community she has been very involved in many aspects of the life and year cycle of the synagogue from pastoral care to running a very popular bat mitzvah programme for mothers and daughters. She enjoys working alongside her husband, and feels that they work well together to enhance the community. “Coming to Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue has been a great opportunity for both of us. We have been able work together as a team and I feel that complement each other well in our approach and outlook.” Having previously trained as a social worker, Rebbetzen Kaplan feels that these skills are very helpful when it comes to being involved in a community, and it can help people share their own problems and issues without fear of judgement. “I like people to feel that I am accessible, so that they are comfortable talking to me. I am open with some of the personal issues that I have been through, such as infertility and adoption, and hope that others in similar situations realise that there is some common ground, and come to me for help and advice.” During her time living in Israel, Rebbetzen Kaplan was involved in helping people by working as a ‘medical clown’. Whilst living in Caesarea, she heard about a new programme being run, and

was keen to be involved. “For anyone who knows me, they know I like to have fun and don’t mind being the centre of attention. Originally the course had been run just for doctors and medical staff, so when I heard that they were offering a course for ‘lay people’ I was very interested.” As a medical clown, she was based at Laniado Hospital in Netanya, and worked with both adults and children helping them through stressful and worrying times whilst staying in hospital. Together with another medical clown, they would accompany the medical team and try to cheer up patients who may be going through operations or procedures, acting as a distraction to their pain and discomfort. “As a clown, we work one-to-one with patients and can interact with them on a personal basis, and just try to make their time in hospital a slightly more fun one. It is a great way to help people who are not well, and to make them feel more relaxed and happy.” More recently, she has been involved in helping people in a different way, turning a personal tragedy into something positive for others. When her son got married in Israel two years ago, Rebbetzen Kaplan’s father was very sick at the time. Thanks to the services of a specially adapted ambulance he was still able to be present at the simcha. N

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Unfortunately, he passed away just three days later, but she was so grateful to have had a chance to share such a special occasion with him, that she promised to set up a similar service in the UK. “I felt passionate about being able to help others to fulfil their final wishes.” Although a similar scheme had been run in Holland, nothing like that existed in the UK. When a member of the HGSS community, Judith Tobin, a palliative care doctor, made Rebbetzen Kaplan aware of a paramedic called Alice Berrill who was already in the process of establishing a charity called The Ambulance Wish Foundation UK, she got in contact with Alice to find out how she could help raise funds. She pledged to raise enough money to not only fund an ambulance, but to also cover the costs for running it for a year. Raising that much money in a short amount of time, needed an unusual approach to attract donations, so she had to come up with something very special. “I wanted to do something that really had the ‘wow’ factor, and jumping out of a plane sounded like a good way to do it!” Being an Orthodox woman, she had to first find a female instructor to do her tandem skydive with, and finally found someone in Beccles, Suffolk. From her fundraising efforts, Rebbetzen Kaplan managed to raise over £100,000. In November, the purpose-built ambulance was presented in a ceremony that was attended by members of the community as well as Chief Rabbi, Ephraim Mirvis. The ambulance is now up and running, and Alice is responsible for helping individuals make their wishes come true. “I am really happy to have been involved in getting this started, and hope that it is able to continue to help people make their final wishes happen. She wanted the purpose built ambulance to be a gift from the Jewish community to be used by whoever needs it, and also as a tribute to her parents’ memory. Inscriptions stating both of these things are clearly displayed on the ambulance. Rebbetzen

Kaplan believes that as Jews it is important to support good deeds and charity within the Jewish community, but sometimes to reach beyond this. “I care passionately for the Jewish community and always happy to help in any way that I can, but sometimes it seems right to look at ways of influencing and connecting with the wider community.” For her, this applies not only to The Ambulance Wish Foundation UK, but also through helping other charities and worthwhile causes. Along with her husband, she has been involved in initiatives to raise money and awareness for Centrepoint homeless charity by sleeping out on the streets of London, and has also visited a refugee camp in Calais. She is currently involved in helping to plan and organise an event taking place in January, which is supported by the Chief Rabbi’s Office. The Neshama Festival will give women the opportunity to experience Torah through both traditional approaches, as well as more interactive and creative ways such as through music, comedy, and art. There will also be shiurim from female guest speakers from within the Jewish community sharing their own thoughts and experiences on a variety of topics. Rabbi and Rebbetzen Kaplan along with their youngest son, will be leaving the HGSS community next year to move back to Israel where their other 5 children, and 7 grandchildren live. She is keen to spend some time being a grandmother, but also wants to take on some other challenges. Although they will not be working in a particular community they have a lot of different ideas of things they would like to do. “We are always looking for our next challenge. That is what keeps it interesting. We have a real mosaic of things we would like to do, and we are very excited to have a chance to use our knowledge and experience to help on a bigger scale.”


14 DECEMBER 2017

JUDY GOLDBERG – BABYNIZER Judy Goldberg always wanted to be an English teacher, and throughout her studies this was her main ambition. At the age of 22, she left her native France to come to England to learn English and qualified as a teacher in 2010. After working for 3 years, she started to feel that the reality of teaching was not as she had hoped. As she explains, “I realised that it was not teaching that I wanted to do, but it was the help, advice and support part that went with it that was really what I was good at and enjoyed.” When she fell pregnant with her first child, Judy and her husband, Eli, were living in Newcastle, without any family, and very few friends in the area. The prospect of preparing for a baby was something she found quite overwhelming. “Everyone seemed to have different advice, and recommended different things, I just didn’t know where to start with everything. What works for someone else was not necessarily what would work for me, so I needed to look into every option.” Much of her pregnancy was spent researching everything from prams to nappies. When other friends also having babies started asking her advice on various products and issues, she began to realise that there was a gap in the market for this kind of advice service. This was the inspiration behind starting her own business, Babynizer. Babynizer is a baby planning service which offers expectant parents a variety of maternity concierge services. Whether they need help organising their nursery, baby proofing their home, or understanding what essential items they should buy, Judy is able to help. Through an initial in-depth consultation held at the client’s home, she fully assesses the house, the lifestyle of the couple, and other factors that may be significant, to gain a better understanding of their needs. She will then create a step by step be-

WOMEN 45

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spoke plan for them. “I try to offer my expert opinion, and make suggestions, but never impose my advice onto clients, or try to control the situation. If the client is happy with what I propose, we will talk in more detail about the plan, to work out the best approach and how to put it in place.” For many the idea of a maternity concierge might sound like something extravagant or expensive, reserved for celebrities and the very rich, but Judy is keen to change this misconception to show it is accessible to those on more modest incomes. An initial consultation for 2 hours starts from around £120, and additional services and packages can be added based on individual needs. Judy explains, “The overall aim of Babynizer is to help parents-to-be in whatever way we can, and try and make things easier for them. Taking the stress out of their lives at this important time will make for a more enjoyable pregnancy, and they will feel more confident as they move into parenthood.” Based in North London, she is happy to do home visits whenever is most convenient, either daytime or evening. For clients not based in London, she can conduct a consul-

tation and assessment via Skype. Since setting up her business three years ago, Judy has developed a network of experts she works closely with to offer clients the best advice and support possible across a range of areas from finding a night nurse, to a baby massage course. Much of her work is through recommendation and word-of-mouth, and she is on relevant online forums and social media groups. Judy is always happy to receive feedback from people she has helped. One recent client, Yael, found the service very useful during her first pregnancy. Yael and her husband were both working full time, so having someone to take the pressure off and give advice was really useful to them. After an initial consultation, Yael felt that she still required further advice, so booked another session with Judy. “I needed more help with buggies and car seats, so Judy took me and my husband to a baby shop which was just the best experience. She showed me various products we had discussed, demonstrating them, showing me how they fold, how to install them, the pros and cons of each of them, and we could also test everything. Because she had met us beforehand, and knew more about us, the trip to the shop was very effective, and we now realise how much we actually saved

having Judy’s help. We would have probably bought too many or even the wrong things if she was not there to guide us.” Yael also used the phone and email support service where Judy aims to respond to queries within 24 hours. This is offered alongside the main package for the first month, with the option of extending this for an additional cost. Yael explains, “I found it a great resource. Judy was there every step of the way to offer advice or a helping hand. She turned the whole process into a fun experience. I know I couldn’t have done it on my own and sure I will ask for her help again in my next pregnancy.” Another area where Judy tries to help expectant mothers is with preparation for hospital. Many women can often feel overwhelmed by the long list of items they are given for their hospital bag, but Judy has created a range of pre-packed luxury hospital bags in various styles and colours, which have the key items needed for mother and baby in the first 48 hours. “There are all the usual things like nappies and baby sleepsuits, but also some treats so the mother can pamper herself a little. People find them really useful, and the bags double as changing bags for when the baby is born.” She remembers how this service came in very handy for one expectant father whose wife went into labour at only 35 weeks. “He contacted me as his wife was being rushed to hospital, as they had not had time to prepare a hospital bag or anything. I offered to take a bag directly to the hospital for them that same evening, and they were really grateful. I was just happy to help.” Judy hopes to be able to develop her business, to use her expertise and knowledge to help even more

parents-to-be, and in time would like to have other concierges working with her. Helping people gives Judy a great sense of satisfaction, and is what she feels makes her job so worthwhile. “It is a really nice feeling knowing that you are able to make someone’s life a little easier, and I enjoy being able to help in some small way towards this. I would love to be able to help even more people in the future through my business.” For more information about the services that Babynizer can offer, please check out the website – www.babynizer.co.uk or the Babynizer Facebook page. Judy is offering a 15% discount for any bookings made before the end of February 2018 if you remember to quote The Jewish Weekly.

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 – CHANUKAH HACKS Jewish Weekly aims to source the most genius, time saving and useful hacks for you every week, so watch this space! Chanukah is a great time of year when it comes to food. Chocolate fluffy doughnuts and hot fried latkes. As lovely as that all sounds, the smell that frying can leave behind can be more of a hum, than yum! To avoid those pesky smells, here are a few Chanukah Hacks to help you through the holiday. • Plan ahead – if you have a kitchen door, make sure that it is closed, so the smell does not travel to the rest of the house. Crank up the fan over the cooker, and open a window if you can (it may be a bit chilly, but that’s still better than smelly, right?!) • Boil up some nice smells – Place some cinnamon sticks and orange peels in a saucepan with some water, and bring to the boil. You can also add rosemary, bay leaves or any other natural smell you like.

Candles make scents – Scented candles are great to light when frying, to fill the air with gorgeous aromas and a lovely glow in the kitchen. Just make sure that they are in a safe place. Be bowled over – If after all that there are still some stubborn odours that you just can’t get rid of, leave a small bowl filled with white vinegar, baking soda or coffee grounds on the worktop, before you go to bed. Any of these will help the remaining smell to dissipate by the morning. Happy Chanukah to you all…

If you have any questions or you have a top tip you want to share, please contact us on office@thejewishweekly.com. Your question might be someone else’s solution!

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46 TRAVEL

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Travel News Roundup

Travel News Roundup is brought to you by Malcolm Ginsberg, Editor in Chief of Business Travel News (www.btnews.co.uk). He is a member of the International Travel Writers Alliance, a noted analyst on aviation matters and is seen from time to time on TV and heard on the radio. He is always pleased to hear from tour operators and travel agents who have packages that might interest Jewish Weekly readers. Malcolm is at Limmud Sunday 24th December talking about “Jewish River Cruising” and river cruising in general. (1.20 for an hour). He will be happy to answer questions on travel in general after the talk, or during the gathering. Tel Aviv ticks the boxes When it comes to the perfect winter getaway, Tel Aviv ticks all the boxes, according to new research by Staysure, one of the UK’s leading travel insurance providers for over 50s. British holidaymakers have put a price on perfection, with the ideal holiday coming in at £960 per person. Those over 65 years of age however were the biggest spenders of any age group, with the average retiree willing to part with £1,020 for a break in the sun, which is £169 more than those

Tel Aviv Waterfront

aged between 16 and 29. Five-star hotels were named as one of the key components that make up the perfect holiday, with 43% of travellers refusing to settle for anything less. The weather played an important part in the research but if you are thinking of holidaymaking, rather than visiting friends and relatives, January is the coolest month with the average maximum temperature 17.6 °C (63.7°F) but this figure can drop as low as 10°C (50.4°F). Both freezing temperatures and snowfall are extremely rare in the city. www.visit-tel-aviv.com Australia this winter Thinking of Australia this winter? Current fares offer remarkable value starting at £600 return economy and just over £2,000 in business class. Reckon on around 22 hours total travel time. From March Qantas will for the first time ever fly non-stop from the UK to Australia, Heathrow to Perth, daily in 16 hours. In January and February the weather can be perfect for Brits, but it is also the busiest time and accommodation needs to be sorted well in advance. If Sydney is your destination the much-anticipated Sofitel Darling Harbour has opened its doors as the first new-build, international luxury hotel to open in the central business district since the turn of the millennium. It is a 15-minute walk to the Great Synagogue which itself is situated by Hyde Park in the centre of the city. The £280 million property has 590 guestrooms including 35 suites with some of the best views in Sydney. The hotel’s public spaces and guestrooms continue to pay tribute to the maritime location and industries that formerly occupied the site, with décor representing Sydney’s strong wharf heritage. www.

Perth, which is soon to be non stop from the UK

sofitelsydneydarlingharbour.com.au Jewish cruise music festival Fancy a sea going break in January? Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) is promoting a Jewish music festival on Oasis of the Seas, featuring popular American performers including Avraham Fried, Dudu Fisher, Benny Friedman, 8th Day, Cantor Chaim Dovid Berson and Rabbi Manis Miles Harris. It is a Sunday to Sunday 21/28th January trip via Orlando (extra days no problem) with three sea days and calls at Labadee (Haiti) (RCCL has a private beach), Falmouth (Jamaica) and Cozumel (Mexico), a very nice balance. Oasis of the Seas is one of the world’s largest cruise ships coming in at 220,000 tons and 5,000 plus passengers. But don’t let the size put you off. RCCL have got the boarding and disembarkation down to an art and it never feels that busy once on board. You can mix with the crowd, take things easy on your stateroom balcony or find a spot in a nook and cranny all over the place. There are eateries galore, sports activities and top rate entertainment. For the most part it is all-inclusive. The rock climbing availably will not appeal to all. It is a floating resort. www.kosherica.com Kosher Skiing You can stay kosher and go skiing both in Europe and North America but this week we are focusing on Mammoth Lakes, California (USA), situated in the Yosemite National Park, 300 miles north of Los Angeles and a five-hour drive. The scenery alone is worth the effort. KosherLuxe is organising a winter breakaway 22/28 January at the Westin Monache Resort.

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Typically American the resort caters for all including beginners runs, and those of Olympic standard. There is a full hotel programme for those who don’t want to go out in the cold. An average of over 400 inches of snow is caused by weather patterns from the Pacific that form over the mountains. No problems in that respect. The summit of Mammoth at 11,053 feet is said to be one of the most stunning views you’ll find in California. Take a scenic ride up the Panorama Gondola and enjoy a 360 degree vista of high altitude Sierra Nevada peaks with a commanding view of the San Juaquin River Valley below. There are chazanim and speakers over Shabbat and a daily minyan. www.kosherluxe.com More BA flights for London City Further expansion of both London City and regional operations with three new routes, increased frequencies, two more aircraft and 40 new

More BA flights for London City

jobs was announced last week by British Airways Cityflyer. There are increased flights from Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol next summer, and the airline has unveiled plans to double weekday services between London City and Milan Linate and add a new weekday service to Frankfurt from January. London City and Cityflyer is different from all the other short-haul BA operations in that a full cabin service is offered in Economy rather than the Marks and Spencer trolley on the rest of the network. Fares are normally the same where duplicated by BA and the airport encourages passengers to use the DLR by openly charging high prices for short-term parking. It is by far the easiest London airport to use (with the exception of Southend) and serves 45 destinations including New York, Paris Orly (the only UK connection) and the Balearics. But not Tel Aviv, as yet. www.londoncityairport.com


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48 NUTRITION

BY ALAN FREISHTAT

14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

Take a Breather

From the moment you were born, you breathe. It’s a normal, involuntary action in a healthy person. But when you are exercising, whether in the aerobic or muscle building mode, how you breathe can make all the difference in how efficient your exercise will be. Remember that oxygen is the main source of energy in aerobic exercise and without adequate oxygen intake during muscle building, the muscle will fatigue too early. For most people it is a matter of learning how to breathe properly, but for some, their breathing can be impaired—and that is when a real challenge has to be overcome. Aron was a long time personal training client of mine. Aron’s routine was well rounded and included muscle building and flexibility training, and he loved to run and was built for it. His slender frame and long legs made him into an ideal runner with great potential. But Aron had one problem that sometimes held him back--he was asthmatic. Most of the time, he was fine, but during certain seasons, allergic reactions to dust and pollen would trigger his asthma. Many times, however, his asthma didn’t affect him but when he exercised, it was no longer under control. This is called exercised induced asthma But another client of mine, Gideon, had no problems with his breathing. But, for some reason, when he was doing his exercise sessions with me, he had a hard time coordinating his breathing with his exercise, and it was preventing him from getting the most out of his sessions. We had to work on this! Breathing during Exercise One’s intuition and what is correct when it comes to how we are supposed to breath during exercise seem to contradict each other. In muscle building there are two parts to each exercise—what we call a concentric or positive contraction and the eccentric or negative contraction. This is the hard part of the exercise, the lifting part as the positive contraction and returning to the original position, the easier part as the negative contraction. The intuition is to breathe in when lifting or when pushing up in a push up or sitting up in a sit up. However, we want to do exactly the opposite. Exhale during the positive contraction of any exercise and inhale

during the negative contraction, or return phase of the exercise. This makes the most efficient use of oxygen and just as important, when you exhale, you create more stability in all of the muscles you are working. Breathing during Aerobic Exercise When walking, jogging, swimming, biking or any other form of aerobics, it is important to keep breathing naturally and on the shallow side. Over breathing can cause a pain under the rib cage or what is known as a stitch. We want to master the art of low breathing during cardiovascular exercise. Start at a low intensity for approximately 5 minutes. Breathe in and out through your nose. Increase your intensity to your desired level, and continue to breathe in and out through your nose. Keep your abdomen relaxed and take deep breaths, completely filling your stomach with air before slowly exhaling. Continue this breathing pattern for the duration of your cardio session. Exercise induced Asthma For those people who begin to get asthmatic symptoms during exercise, especially as their intensity increases, Dr. Gregg Anderson, PhD of the Justice Institute of British Columbia offers the following advice.

He says that those with exercise-induced asthma should have a prolonged (15-minute) warm-up and cool-down before and after exercise to limit exercise-induced bronchospasm. Research suggests warming up gradually and then be intermittent with a range of intensities; and include dynamic activity involving range of motion, balance, agility and neuromuscular activation. The following tips can help an asthmatic client reduce symptoms while exercising: • Use inhaled medication 20 minutes before exercise. • Perform a prolonged moderate-intensity warm-up and cool-down, preferably of variable intensity and including a burst of high-intensity activity. • Avoid known irritants during exercise. • Avoid pollens; exercise indoors during pollen season. • Avoid exercise in high-pollution environments or at peak pollution times of day. • In cold weather, exercise inside or wear a mask or scarf outside to limit moisture loss and trap moisture so that the air breathed in is warm. • Exercise in warm, moist environments (such as on the pool deck at a fitness facility). • void exercise during any viral

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infection. Data is mixed concerning appropriate exercise intensities, although prolonged, high-intensity training has been shown to increase the incidence of exercise-induced asthma. In fact, there is now concern that the high flow rates required in exercise at an elite level may be detrimental to an athlete’s respiratory health. So moderate-intensity exercise still seems to be an appropriate goal and a recommendation for clients with known exercise-induced asthma. Also, the exercise environment is extremely important. Warm, moist exercise environments that are protected from pollution and pollen exposure may best serve these clients. Aron became an excellent runner, but we had to change his routine when his asthma sometimes kicked in. We would slow down and even walk for extended periods before resuming some running. The important thing is, Aron didn’t stop running or exercising during these periods of time. We found a way, albeit with less intensity, to get his workout in. Gideon had a hard time getting the hang of how to exercise and breathe properly. But, we even cut back on what we were doing during his workouts in order to teach the proper breathing techniques. Slowly but surely he was able to master when to inhale and when to exhale and sure enough, he even commented to me that he felt his exercise was easier to do and he was able to progress in a more steady manner too. Oxygen intake is vital to our

existence even for non-exercisers. The more efficient we can become in our intake and use of O2, the better we perform in all aspects of life. And when we exercise, it is vital that we inhale and exhale in sync with our exercises. Breathing properly during exercise will make our routines far more efficient and “add hours to our day, days to your year and years to our life”.

Alan Freishtat is an A.C.E. certified personal trainer and a behavioural change and wellness coach with over 19 years of professional experience. Alan is the creator and director of the “10 Weeks to Health” programme for weight loss and is available for private coaching sessions, consultations, assessments and personalised workout programmes both in his office and by telephone or Skype. Alan also lectures and gives seminars and workshops. Contact Alan on 02-651-8502 or 050-555-7175, or email alan@alanfitness.com. For more information visit www.alanfitness.com


14 DECEMBER 2017

THE JEWISH WEEKLY

FOOD 49 60 min Duration 35 min Cook Time 25 min Prep Time 6-8 Servings

joyofkosher.com This latke recipe uses only 1 potato and cooking spray along with a non stick pan to cut the carbs and fat. You can fry these like you would traditional latkes if desired.

INGREDIENTS • 3 cups cauliflower florets (1 head) • • 3 medium carrots or 6 baby carrots, peeled and shredded (1 cup) • 1 small potato peeled and quartered • 1 clove of garlic peeled • ¼ cup matzoh meal

1 small onion finely diced • ¼ tsp nutmeg • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • pepper to taste • 2 eggs, beaten • Cooking spray

PREPARATION 1. Boil cauliflower, carrots, potato and garlic in salted water for 15 minutes and drain well. 2. Chop cauliflower, smash the potato and garlic. 3. Combine cauliflower, carrots, potato, garlic, matzoh meal, onion, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Add eggs to bind ingredients together. 4. Shape 1/4 cup of mixture into latkes. Spray cooking spray into a non stick pan. Brown latkes on each side to desired doneness.

LOW-FAT CAULIFLOWER CARROT LATKES

CRANBERRY APPLESAUCE This beautiful, scarlet applesauce is a great accompaniment to latkes or as a snack on its own. Large, firm apples like honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best for this recipe. To save time on your Chanukah prep, make this applesauce up to 3 days ahead, and store covered in the refrigerator.

INGREDIENTS • 3 apples, peeled, cored and sliced • 2 cups fresh cranberries • ¼ cup sugar • 1 cup water

PREPARATION 1. 2. 3. 4.

In a small saucepan, over medium heat, add apples, cranberries, sugar, and water. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes, or until apples are falling apart and cranberries have popped. Continue cooking for 5 to 10 minutes more, until mixture is very thick and a bright scarlet color throughout. Store, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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35 min Duration 25 min Cook Time 10 min Prep Time 3 Servings


50 COMEDY

It’s a vet’s life THE JEWISH WEEKLY

COMEDY BY ED MOSS

One of my son’s best school-mates is well on the path to becoming a fully-fledged vet. He’s technically one already, but now has to go on to do another number of years at vast expense to get a few extra letters after his name to reinforce the fact further. It’s very much a noble profession, as he will spend his entire life curing the ills of those who are the equivalent of one-year-old babies, because not a single one of his patients will ever be able to tell him precisely where it hurts or what might be wrong with them. Apart from the humble parrot that is. But then the parrot will only be able to reply, when being asked what’s wrong, with a “whose a pretty boy then?” Hardly the most useful of answers really. And then there are some animals that have an inbuilt instinct, thanks to generations of being prey, to disguise the fact they are ill so as not to appear weak and vulnerable

to that prey. Even though the threat has long since evaporated. And that brings me back to the parrot. My Aunt Fanny had one. A parrot that is. I also should clarify that I am of an age where, as a young boy, everyone I knew also had an Aunt Fanny. Actually, I had two, as well as two Aunt Pollys and an Aunty Tilly; how the name Cecelia became “Tilly” is one of life’s grand mysteries. Anyway, as I was saying before I interrupted myself, one of my Aunts Fanny had this enormous – well it was to me being only eight at the time – blue parrot that never stopped talking. She lived beside London’s Northern Line, I am not too sure precisely where, but it was not far from where the tube trains emerge as they head off towards Edgware. I remember every time a train roared past, the parrot would squawk “Another stupid train, Another stupid train,” which, as an eight-year-old, I remember finding rather funny.

I never did find out what happened to the parrot. Or to Aunt Fanny for that matter. I read recently that the popular social media platform Facebook has some 220million accounts that are either fake, duplicates or the users have passed on. Duplicates I can certainly believe when I wish some of the people on the Radio Jcom Leeds Facebook page (that I co-moderate) happy birthday. Many people there have up to four identical profiles, but, I will hasten to add, not for nefarious means. It’s all totally by accident. So, with over a tenth of the world’s Facebook profiles being totally useless, it would appear the advertisers on the platform are not exactly getting the good deal that the Facebook authorities – the ones you can never get hold of until you want to pay them money for something – claim they are. Add in to this those who use either software or web-browser extensions to filter out said advertisements,

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not forgetting the advertisements that are totally irrelevant to users (I have recently been targeted for the stock exchange, garden sheds and cat pet food – three things I have no interest in, not to mention we ain’t got a garden or a cat) and you start seeing that it’s not really the marketing nirvana the bods at Facebook – or for that matter out there in the interweb world would like us to think it is! The reason I mention the above, and I appreciate it is not altogether comedic, is that because advertising revenue is falling on these sites for one reason or another (mainly another), the free social media sites are resorting to ever-more underhand methods of finding out what is of potential interest to you so they can target your desires. Keep in in mind that the giving up your personal data to these behemoths is the price you pay for using these sites for free. They are now, it seems, popping innocent little bits of code around that pick up your personal information and internet habits. So, as I regularly remind my listener (Dave from Leeds, a lovely chap) to my Radio Jcom Programme, take care with the personal information about you that you put on-line. Your phone number, email address and location are worth a fortune to the social media sites, and you have probably granted them permission to use them by ticking the box at the bottom of the 176-pages of terms and conditions you never bothered reading. Just like the rest of us have all not bothered to do before we signed! I was in the centre of town the other week, and was accosted by a lady shouting “Big Issue please” at me. She was so nice, stressing as she did the “please”, that I sold her 50 copies. Seriously though, and on a more serious note, I do at times question the genuineness of some of these Big Issue sellers. I don’t decry someone grabbing the opportunity of trying to pick themselves up from the absolute disgrace in modern day Britain that is homelessness. But I do feel that some are slightly more 9 carat silver (yes, I know, that doesn’t exist) with marcasite rather than 18 carat gold with a diamond. But more importantly, they are ruining it for those who are indeed in 100% genuine need and trying their best.

14 DECEMBER 2017

Just an observance. I really cannot understand why the 'youff' of today are so rude to bus drivers. Grunting and pointing at the driver while he tries to fathom out your destination as you carry on your Snapchatting or Facebooking is totally unacceptable. A selfie of you in detention for an hour after school writing out "I must gain some manners and respect my elders" 100 times on the blackboard would do you the world of good. Similarly in supermarkets. I was in my local branch of Morrison’s (other supermarkets where good food allegedly costs less and similarly and equally allegedly, every little helps, are available) where a bouffant lady, replete in her fake fur and Ugg boots was in animated conversation on her mobile phone while going through the checkout. No amount of her pointing, gesticulating and snapping of her fingers could assist the poor check-out lady in affirming whether said customer needed any 10p plastic bags or not. I tapped her on the shoulder and asked her if she may care to put her phone down for a moment and have a little respect not only for the cashier who was trying her level best, but for the remaining three of us patiently waiting in the queue to check out our own shopping. She then recalcitrantly threw her phone into her bag (whether or not it was being thrown into a genuine Loius Vuitton bag or not I cannot confirm), swore at us all, and pronately, in resplendent pigeon-walk fashion - as well as profanely - tottered off. Definitely a case of an unidentified bag in the bagging area.

Ed Moss






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