Dear Members, It has been a month since I personally wrote to you and it seems like a very long time indeed. I trust that you have been keeping safe and well in the meantime. It has been a devastating and emotional time for our family, with the sad demise of Juliette's dear father, David. In the current times, with so many restrictions, the pain and loss was amplified. Like so many of you who have lost precious loved ones in these awful times, it was our turn to experience the absence of all those wonderful traditions which, in normal times, go such a long way to assist recovery. Limited numbers at the funeral, no one allowed at the Shiva home, no hugs, and no embraces. So unlike anything we expected. It was unpleasant and lonely. However, what we did see was a phenomenal outpouring of love and concern from the entire community, demonstrating yet again how we, as a community, have risen to the challenge of the past year, channelling kindness, compassion and consideration to compensate, even in small way, for that which is being denied during this time. With this spirit and drive, we as a family will PG be able to gradually move on. Hopefully, we as a community will also begin to come out of this frustrating and painful time. Indeed, there is light at the end of the tunnel, with the continued rapid rollout of the vaccine. Please, I urge you, to continue doing all that is sweet and lovely about our community. There is still a journey and lots of uncertainty ahead of us. We are here for you, and we know that you are here for us – to help and assist us in any way you can. Purim, followed by Pesach will soon be upon us. We are working on both, and further details will be shared shortly. We hope that you will join us in – at least on our digital platform, online. How could I conclude without writing about the sad passing of a national hero, Captain Sir Tom Moore. Together with so many others, he inspired us last year and became a 'national treasure', capturing the affections of our nation. We send our heartfelt wishes and condolences to his whole family at this sad time. He showed us all that a single person can truly make a difference to millions. One person can make a difference. One – united – community can do the same! We thank you for your continued support and in the meantime, be well and healthy and stay safe. Best wishes
Jeremy Harris Chair