JLife Leeds June-July 2024

THE ANNUAL LEEDS JEWISH COMMUNITY

AWARDS DINNER

14th November 2024 7:30pm

NOMINATE NOW!

Sharlisse Levy Female Award

SPONSORED BY

Gaynor and Jeremy Sorkin & Family

Which amazing woman do you know who deserves recognition?

Inspirational Award

SPONSORED BY

Debbie and Adam Cutler

Is there a person who has inspired you or the community in some way who you think should be acknowledged?

The Lloyd Rakusen Sporting Achievement Award

SPONSORED BY

The Rakusen and Sandle Families

We’re lucky to have some amazing people involved in sport in Leeds but is there anyone exceptional who deserves this award?

Richard Goldberg Male Award

SPONSORED BY

Is there a super man that you know that deserves an award? Tell us all about him.

Community Achievement Award

SPONSORED BY

Person or people - we’re looking for an individual or organisation that has achieved levels beyond expectation.

Community Volunteer Award

SPONSORED BY

TerrI and Ian Barnett

There are so many to choose from who make up the backbone of our wonderful community; who do you know who goes above and beyond?

LEEDS JE WISH

PRIDE AWARDS 2024

MARCIA & ANDREW BROWN CHARITABLE TRUST

LJWB Champion SPONSORED BY

A group or person that has volunteered their time above and beyond.

We’re looking for someone who has made a big impact on the Leeds community with their tireless work.

Leader of Youth Award

SPONSORED BY Amanda and Jonny Jerome

Youth is at the heart of our vibrant community; who is the stand-out leader who deserves this award?

Adrienne & Louis Harris Lifetime Achievement Award

SPONSORED BY Linda and Martin Lee

This person has dedicated their life to our community; who do you think it should be?

Business Award SPONSORED BY

This person may well be Leeds’ answer to Alan Sugar; who do you know who has thrived in business?

CONTENTS:

IN THISISSUE

Wetherby & Boston Spa

See how Wetherby and Boston Spa can offer an exciting doorstep day out. Starts page 10.

Father’s Day

Check out some gifts for dad with some adrenaline-fueled experiences. Page 16.

Summer Essentials

Celebrate the arrival of summer with outdoor bar essentials and top tips on how to throw a Wimbledon party. Starts page 17.

Bar & Bat Mitzvah Special

Take a look back over a year of Bar and Bat Mitzvah photos as well as a stylish Bar Mitzvah fashion page for outfit inspiration for the star of the show and guests. Starts page 46.

Shavuot

We explore some savoury dairy recipes and hear from Rabbi Doniel Stern on the festival. Starts page 78.

PUBLISHER

GRAPHIC

FEATURES

EDITORIAL

Claire

Rob

Simon

Heather

Mike

Howard

JUN / JUL 2024

YOUR REGULARFEATURES

JLife Meets…

We talk to Stand-up Comedian Josh Howie about his upcoming gig with a Jewish line-up at Comedy Unleashed. Page 34.

Matt Frei, Europe Editor and Presenter at Channel 4, tells us about his remarkable career. Page 61.

Community

Catch up with the latest news, events, and simchas in your community. Starts page 9.

Competition

Win a delectable afternoon tea for two including a wide range of savoury and sweet treats from Pudding Lab, worth £60. Page 11.

Fashion

Take your poolside and beachwear outfits to the next level with these summer holiday essentials for the girls. Page 32.

The Sweet Spot

In time for Shavuot, we delve into the fascinating history of one of the world’s favourite desserts: ice cream. Page 40.

On the Move

With a public consultation of a new sustainable light rail system approaching, we look at what the plan could do for our city. Page 68.

Lend a Hand

It’s Volunteer Week in June, so we signpost some excellent Leeds organisations looking for eager volunteers. Page 70.

Breathing Space

Clean Air Day 2024 is approaching fast, and it’s time to join the movement for healthier air. Page 71.

Travel

Find out how Morocco is becoming an increasingly popular winter sun destination. Page 74.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

Welcome to our June edition! The community came together to march against antisemitism, remember the fallen soldiers, and celebrate Israel’s 76th year of independence: difficult with tensions still high. A positive from all this has been the togetherness and strength that has prevailed. Shavuot comes next: a dose of dairy delights to celebrate the 10 commandments and National Ice Cream Day!

At time of writing, the city is gripped by the football and looking forward to a day out in London, and we check out the plans for the next stage of the transport improvements for the

region. Closer to home we check out Wetherby and Boston Spa for a day out, and you can win an afternoon tea with the lovely lads at Pudding Lab. We’ve a run down of some summer picnic spots within an hour, or if you prefer, stay in the garden with our BBQ and Bar or Tennis Garden Party ideas.

Our annual Bar & Bat Mitzvah feature is back, and as its Father’s Day we talk to one proud Bar Mitzvah dad about the build up to his son’s wonderful weekend…

Don’t forget to follow and share us on socials and mention us to all our lovely advertisers when you visit them!

Dentist!

Jacks

Dentist.

Deidre Schwarts has won a pair of Oakley sunglasses from James Daly Opticians.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Star Performer Entertains at UHC

Stuart Atkins recently entertained an audience of over 70 people at UHC in a successful event fundraising for WIZO projects in Israel. His performance focused upon the music and narrative of the wonderful composers and lyricists who created The Great American Song Book.

Over a long musical career, Stuart has been musical director at Batley Variety Club, worked with The Bachelors, arranging and conducting for them, travelled the world conducting and arranging for orchestras in Tokyo, Mexico City and all over Europe, among several other performance successes. He has also conducted at The Blackpool Opera House and at the Manchester Opera house for the production Barnum starring Michael Crawford. At one time he also had his own 18-piece big band in which he played trombone, making him a very special star guest to WIZO and UHC.

Local School Praised for Diversity and Inclusion

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) between Harrogate and York has been named a finalist for the BSA Belonging and Inclusion Initiative Award 2024. The award shortlist is a credit to the school’s commitment to inclusivity when taking care of all members of the diverse QE community. Examples include students teaching and running activities about different cultures, making and serving matzah balls in the dining hall, running a Culture Kitchen YouTube channel, or national holiday celebrations.

The award comes after QE’s recent ISI inspection highlighted: “Pupils interact with each other in a positive way and enjoy finding out about the different backgrounds of the many nationalities represented within their community. Leaders foster positive relationships between pupils and staff and among pupils, characterised by mutual respect. Pupils feel they are part of a community.”

Principal, Dan Machin, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised in this way. Celebrating diversity and inclusion is essential in ensuring success and happiness for all members of our community.”

Gala Dinner Fundraises for the Homeless

Homeless Street Angels are hosting a gala dinner on 14th June at Leeds Marriott Hotel. Tickets are on sale for £95 per person, all the proceeds of which go to Homeless Street Angels. The gala is being held as a fundraiser for The Abi House, a safe space to provide love and hope to the homeless and struggling families in Leeds.

On the night there will be drinks, a three-course meal, a high-end auction, and entertainment with a stunning performance by Clare Brookes followed by a DJ and disco. Dance the night away dressed to the nines with the event’s black tie dress code and a glamourous black and gold theme.

Local Primary School is Second Best in England

Brodetsky Primary School ranks in the top 2% of all primary schools in the UK for SATs results and sits in the top five primary schools in Leeds. The ranking was released in an article by the Yorkshire Evening Post, settling Brodetsky Primary School in the fifth spot, celebrating the best percentage of pupils meeting the expected academic standard for the academic year 2022 to 2023. Another accolade recently bestowed upon Brodetsky Primary School was second best Jewish primary school in England with 90% of children reaching expected standards.

Sagi Yechezkel, Deputy Headteacher, says: “We are incredibly proud to have been ranked Leeds’ fifth top performing school according to the 2023 Year 6 SATs. This achievement reflects the immeasurable daily commitment and effort of all our pupils, teachers and staff while being a testament to our collective dedication to academic excellence and fostering a supportive learning environment.”

LS17 Producer Releases Documentary

Local film producer, Sheldon Lazurus is releasing a new documentary, WE WILL DANCE AGAIN (working title) which covers the unprecedented October 7th terror attack by Hamas on the Nova Music Festival. The documentary will enter the market at upcoming L.A. Screenings.

The feature, with co-producers BBC Storyville airing it in the UK and Hot Channel 8 in Israel, will offer new interviews and previously unseen exclusive footage of the tragic events unfolding at the music festival. It is helmed by award-winning director Yariv Mozer.

During Lazarus’ extensive television career, he founded Rize USA, a company he later sold to DCD Media plc in 2012. Following the sale, he established a new non-scripted division for Disney-supported ABC News/Lincoln Square in London. In that role he produced documentaries including: The Last Days of Princess Diana (ABC, Disney) and The Last Days of Prince (Channel 4). Sheldon has also produced programmes such as Mall Cops: Mall of America (TLC), China’s Elephant Man (National Geographic), as well as the BAFTA-winning children’s series Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab (BBC).

Writer and Translator Join Holocaust North

Writer, Tom Hastings, and Translator, Rey Conquer, complete the line up for Holocaust Centre North’s innovative Memorial Gestures artistic residency for 2024. Both new residents create brand new work inspired by the centre’s archives and in response to its themes and collections around Holocaust remembrance and history. Alongside the artists, Hastings and Conquer will now be fully immersed in the Centre’s memories, artefacts and accounts covering themes of discrimination, displacement, trauma, migration, loss, memory, and hope — to respond to and translate them through their own, individual creative and artistic practices.

Rey comments: “I am very excited and honoured to be working with the collections at Holocaust Centre North and to be chosen as the inaugural translator-in-residence. I applied for the residency because I am interested in how difficult histories and texts are made available to audiences without being tamed or simplified.”

Tom comments: “Reading through the collection of survivors’ stories led me to reflect on the way details of embodied movement can serve to memorialise experience – something I know from my own grandparents’ story. The Memorial Gestures programme presents a unique opportunity to inhabit a living archive in dialogue with artists, the team, and the wider community.”

IT WAS HELD AT THE CHABAD CENTRE AS SHE WAS SURROUNDED BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

MIRIAM PINK RECENTLY CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH!

GUESTS WERE INVITED TO MAKE A PERSONALISED TAMBOURINE AT THE RECEPTION RELATING TO A HEARTFELT STORY.

PROUD MUM, DABRUSHY, AND DAD AND JLIFE CONTRIBUTOR RABBI ELI PINK CELEBRATED WITH MIRIAM’S SISTERS AFTER THE CEREMONY.

PARENTS AND PUPILS ENJOYED THE BRODETSKY YEAR 5 AND 6 MODEL SEDER AT PESACH.

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HOWARD’S WAY

The latest Leeds WIZO event saw Man Booker Prize winner Howard Jacobson discussing his new book What Will Survive of Us, as well as the situation in Israel.

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

WIZO welcomed Man Booker Prize winner Howard Jacobson to Leeds where he spoke in an interview with Francine White. The event was opened by Marilynne and Brian Jackson and Guests of Honour Pat and Arnold Zermansky.

An audience of around 100 people were treated to the most entertaining evening where

Howard Jacobson spoke about his life, his new book What Will Survive of Us and his view of the situation in Israel. This followed a delicious supper which had been catered by Leeds WIZO volunteers. Howard very kindly signed copies of his most recent book following the interview which had been donated by his publishers Penguin Random House.

Vital funds were raised which are going to the WIZO Emergency Appeal. WIZO is on the ground dealing with the day-to-day impact of the terror of the horrific war and urgently needs support to provide vital care for the victims.

MASTERMIND

Alan Brosgill has become the only Jewish Bridge Grand Master in Leeds, the first in over 20 years.

Alan Brosgill has become the only Jewish Bridge Grand Master in Leeds, and one of only three that have hailed from Yorkshire. It is over 20 years since Leeds had a Jewish Bridge Grand Master.

Alan is a member of 300 strong Leeds Bridge Club which has a large Jewish membership, playing at the Moor Allerton Sports and Social Centre on Stonegate Road. The club, as well as holding games for all levels, provides teaching for beginners and improvers.

During the past 12 months Alan, with his partner Robin Jepson, has won the National Pairs Northern Region trophy, the Yorkshire Congress Pairs and, with teammates, won the Yorkshire Congress Teams. He also won the Northern Midweek Swiss Pairs with Mike Ferguson .

As well as representing Leeds A team, Alan has represented Yorkshire on many occasions and was a member of the team that won the Northern Bridge League A Division, and the President’s Cup in 2023.

Alan said that Bridge is a fantastic game and thoroughly recommends it to everyone: “Bridge is a great stimulation to the brain which is very important as we get older. Research has found that playing has a statistically significant positive effect on wellbeing. It is also a great fun and social activity whether played in the comfort of your own home, with friends, or at the Bridge Club in Leeds.”

Details can be found at Leedsbridgeclub.com

Within easy reach of LS17, the landscapes of Wetherby and Boston Spa offer the perfect day out destination. Eclectic retail, buzzing bars and restaurants, and plenty of history.

Wetherby’s history goes right back to the Bronze Age when the Romans settled just south of the town, but it was really in the medieval period that Wetherby rose to prominence when Archbishop de Grey built the town’s bridge in 1233-35, where a memorial to the 71 men of Wetherby who died in WWI stands today. The memorial takes the form of a winged Victory holding aloft a laurel wreath, standing on a stone plinth and designed by the sculptor Louis Frederick Roslyn.

During the civil war between supporters of King Stephen and Queen Maud in the mid-12th century, the Percy family built a castle overlooking the bridge, but when Henry II took the throne, the castle was demolished. The remains lie in the grounds of a private house.

The 18th and 19th century saw the town prosper, its half way point between London and Edinburgh a perfect stop for coach travellers, leading to many inns with stables opening, and the current number of pubs today.

The parish church was built in 1839 and evolved with a moving memorial to 2nd Lieutenant James Hargreaves of the Royal Field Artillery, who died in action at Passchendaele in 1917.

In 1888 The Shambles colonnade was converted into an open market specialising in poultry and dairy products. The town’s market still opens twice a week welcoming visitors from far and wide.

At The Garden of Rest stands The Huguenot Archway, which originally formed an arch over a passageway between two buildings in Westgate. The archway bears an inscription in French which translates as ‘Love your neighbour as yourself, said the Evangelist’.

In the 18th century it was becoming

Wetherby

and Boston Spa offer an exciting doorstep day out.

increasingly popular to take a cold plunge to help with a variety of medical complaints from headaches to impotence. Cold plunge bath houses became fashionable in many of the great country house estates, in the Jubilee Gardens sits the Georgian Bath House where the pool is 1.5 metres deep fed by water from a spring on the hillside above. The upper chamber was known as the Warming Room, and it was popular for socialising, playing cards, and gambling.

The iconic cinema originally opened as the Raby in 1915 with 500 seats still remains

despite closing and becoming a bingo hall along the way, it still screens regular showings today.

Just down the road is the beautiful Boston Spa, when a mineral spring was discovered in 1744, the village became a home for the gentry. The waters were tested and deemed by experts to have therapeutic qualities, and the influx of well-heeled visitors looking to bathe in the revitalising springs. Spa baths were built beside the Wharfe in 1834, the building was part of the Gascoigne family’s Parlington estate, and the village became a retreat for many with ill health.

When another spring was found near the site of Wharfedale Hall, plans were announced for more baths, a hotel, assembly rooms and formal gardens. But the lack of a rail link and a trend towards sea bathing meant the plans never materialised, but the village developed in to a popular location for commuters and property buyers. In 2019, it featured in the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide in 2019!

You could be enjoying a delectable afternoon tea for two including a wide range of savoury and sweet treats.

Visiting

Calling all dessert lovers! Feast your eyes on the mouthwatering desserts at Pudding Lab, Boston Spa, and head over to taste its unique patisserie treats in both sweet and savoury flavours. This is your chance to indulge in some of the finest puddings the area has to offer so what are you waiting for!

Nestled in the charming location of Boston Spa, Pudding Lab is a haven for those with a craving for delicious desserts and artisanal sweets. Owners and former speciality chefs Ashley and Kian promise you an unforgettable culinary experience.

For just £30 per person, its afternoon tea allows you the perfect sample of several savoury and sweet dishes. Begin with the delectable Croque Monsieur, Chicken and Pesto Focaccia Sandwich, or Roast Squash, Goats Cheese and Pine Nut Pithiver and top it off with Macarons, Chocolate and Hazelnut Brownie Gateau, or Mixed Berry Financier – a truly decadent experience.

With Gluten Free options available and a pairing of North Star Coffee and speciality teas, there’s something everyone can enjoy – making its gift vouchers an even more irresistible present for your friends and loved ones.

Pudding Lab

COMPETITION

To be in a chance of winning an afternoon tea for two worth £60, simply answer the following question:

Who are the owners of Pudding Lab?

Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5 or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 30th June 2024

Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. Prize must be booked with owner. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Pudding Lab databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

Creatively Different

A unique patisserie where you can have your cake and eat it!

Boston Spa isn’t complete until you’ve been to and Speciality Teas

Gift Vouchers & Gluten Free Available

Creatively Different

Treat yourself to a savoury croissant or croque monseur for lunch, or a delectable afternoon tea including a wide range of savoury and sweet treats at just £30 pp (bookings required 24hr prior)

Specialists in all types of carpet and flooring, expert fitting service. Stockists of Farrow & Ball Paint.

FREE Designer Rug for all carpet & flooring orders over £500

Quote “JLMag” T&Cs apply

The

Quality

Excellent

Fully

Gluten

Floor Design Wetherby

Floor Design in Wetherby is an established independent flooring store serving north Leeds. Specialists in all types of carpets, rugs and wood and LVT flooring, with an expert fitting service, the store is proud to be an Amtico recommended partner. And for those embarking on the full interior décor piece, the store also stock Farrow & Ball paints. Pop into the expansive showroom on North Street whilst in the town, or arrange a home visit, any orders made this month over £500 will also benefit from a free designer rug if you mention this magazine!

Check out Floordesignwetherby.co.uk

The Wetherby Whaler

Check out some great businesses and events in Wetherby and Boston Spa this summer.

On 6th June 2024, the D-Day 80 events will mark 80 years since one of the most significant military operations in history, the D-Day landings of World War ll, we remember with everlasting gratitude those who gave their lives for the freedom of Europe. The British Military is delighted to participate in the lighting of beacons to pay tribute to them, one of which will be taking place in Spofforth.

The importance of the nations favourite dish was recognised during WW11, as Winston Churchill described them as “good companions” and in order to maintain the morale of the nation the iconic dish was one of the few foods not be rationed during the war. This year the 9th National Fish and Chip Day will be celebrated the same day, in its honour!

The area’s no.1 fish and chip restaurant, The Wetherby Whaler will be marking the day with some special offers and celebrations of our heroes throughout the week, so make sure you get involved. Their Takeaways and Restaurants have been serving the area with the finest fish and chips for over 50 years.

Wetherbywhaler.co.uk

WETHERBY

FLOOR DESIGN, WETHERBY

RIVERSIDE PROPERTIES IN BOSTON SPA

Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. Schools cannot afford to ignore it and, indeed, are doing students a disservice if they do not properly discuss and agree their fundamental approach to its use. As such, it is important to write an AI policy – there are many samples and templates out there to borrow from – though of course the school needs to first decide just how much they wish to embrace the potential of AI.

At Queen Ethelburga’s, our approach has very much been to see AI as a tool to enhance and support learners and teachers. Why wouldn’t we? It is already so embedded in daily life in different forms, whether it be driverless cars, facial recognition, or suggested viewing on streaming platforms, that to not make use of it seems counterintuitive. Not only this, but as AI is increasingly being utilised in a range of careers including early diagnoses of medical conditions, analysing market trends, or making hiring decisions, we feel obligated to increase student exposure to the potential of AI. They will be entering a very different employment landscape to even 10 years ago and we owe it to them to prepare them as best we can for their futures –isn’t that our fundamental purpose as educators?

So, given this approach, we wrote a policy (helped by an AI model of course – they are good for that!) outlining to staff not only how AI can be used by teachers, leaders, and support staff but how this must be done in a responsible way, considering issues around ethics, data privacy, and bias. This is the same message that was then repeated to students in a series of assemblies in September, delivered in an age-appropriate way and reflecting the different safeguarding guidelines for those under 13, those from 13 to 18, and those over 18. There has been an emphasis with all students under 18 to use AI models that do not require a log in and to ensure they appreciate they should not be

Academic Director at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, Kevin Oldershaw, explains the importance for schools to have a clear approach to the use of AI.

entering personal identifiable information into any website if they do not know how it will be used. For the younger students, the approach has very much been to work with their teachers in lessons using AI as a class, but for the older ones, the focus is on encouraging them to experiment with how it can help them, in a controlled and managed environment.

As we have moved through the year, we, other educators and governing bodies began to get to grips with how AI can, and is, being used. As various guidance began to be published and updated, we produced our own documentation for students helping them to better understand when it is, and isn’t, acceptable to use AI in their education, how to appropriately reference the use of AI in coursework, and how to work closely with their teachers to learn the best strategies.

Further work was done with teachers on how to use AI most effectively, ensuring the use was conversational, crafting the most effective prompts and then building on these to train the AI model exactly what you need from it. As teachers used to clearly articulating to students what we want them to do, observing their responses and then amending our instructions

and guidance, we are ideally placed to be able to train AI models in the same way. Our academic staff have been able to opt into a range of CPD training sessions where staff learnt how to model AI best practice in the classroom, how to use AI to personalise their teaching, how to provide feedback to students and how they can help tackle intense workloads to increase their contact time with students.

Appreciating the importance of the need to keep up to date with this rapidly developing area and to ensure that AI is seen as a tool for people to use, not to fear, we created and recruited for a new role Head of Cognitive Science and Digital Literacy. As an experienced teacher within Creative Media and enthusiastic user of technology, Jason Sharma-Pay is ideally placed to not only help us further develop our digital strategy but to better understand how human creativity, empathy, emotional intelligence, and capacity for critical thought can ensure artificial intelligence enhances teaching, learning and student outcomes.

Qe.org

Time for Dad!

16th June

Looking

for a gift for dad this Father’s Day? Our pick of adrenalin-fuelled experiences will hit the mark.

The sky’s the limit

Is your dad desperate to tick skydiving off his bucket list? Then look no further than Black Knights Parachute and Skydiving Centre. The company offers tandem jumps beginning at 11,000 feet, with all instructors certified by British Skydiving, so dad will have a completely safe and exciting adventure.

Tandem skydive from £199. Vouchers available Bkpc.co.uk

The

drive of his life

Appeal to dad’s inner James Bond with an amazing supercar driving experience courtesy of Track Days. Choose from a whole host of performance vehicles from manufacturers such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Audi, Porsche and McLaren. With single and multicar packages available, you can use the Supercar Selector to build your package. The nearest track is Tockwith Park, just a half hour drive from north Leeds. Gift cards available. Trackdays.co.uk

The great escape Push dad’s logic, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to their limits with The Yorkshire Escape Game Experience, brought to you by The Great Escape Game who specialise in next level escape game experiences. Enjoy your day alongside dad as he is immersed into a fantasy world, complete with live-action characters, sound effects and film-set quality props. Choose from escape room themes including a haunted house, a medieval castle, a submarine adventure and more, and get ready to bond as you uncover the mysteries and decode the puzzles with just an hour on the clock. Gift box voucher available. Uniquelylocal.co.uk/experiences

On

the fly

Flight Experience provides an amazing opportunity for dad to take to the skies and marvel at the stunning sights of Yorkshire. Flight lessons depart at Sherburn Aero Club and head East towards the Humber Estuary passing north of the Humber Bridge, taking in the coastline up to Bridlington, Scarborough, Filey, Robin Hood’s Bay and Whitby and back via the North York Moors, Castle Howard, and York.

He’ll have a full pre-flight briefing from a highly qualified and experienced instructor before taking the controls of the aircraft, sitting in the captain’s seat in the cockpit. He will assist with the take-off and landing of the plane and handling and flying the aircraft. On completion he will receive a personalised certificate providing the details of his flight.

A personalised gift voucher for dad with the details of his flight is available. Sherburnaeroclub.com/trial-flights

Eyeing up the target

Treat dad and the family to the ultimate game of elimination at the Leeds Combat Archery Arena! Combining dodgeball and archery, this exciting sport features inflatable bunkers and barricades, top-of-the-line bows, and foam-tipped arrows. Play thrilling games like ‘Capture the Flag’, ‘Bullseye’, and ‘Every Man for Himself’.

The company provides everything you need for a fun adventure, including team vests, safety masks, arm guards, and bows.

The game starts with arrows in the centre of the arena. Collect them, fire at opponents, and try to be the last team standing. Catching an arrow can bring an eliminated teammate back into play. This one-hour combat archery experience offers serious fun without the mess or bruises. Gift vouchers available.

Nationalarchery.co.uk

Take Your Pic (nic)!

With an abundance of beautiful picnic spots within an hour’s drive of Leeds, there’s no excuse not to enjoy National Picnic Week, this year from 19th to 27th June. Whether you seek a serene riverside, a peaceful meadow, or a family-friendly park, you’ll find the perfect spot for a leisurely outdoor meal with family and friends. So, pack your picnic basket, grab a blanket, jump in your car on a train or bus and find your happy place!

Chevin Forest Park

Just a short drive from LS17, Chevin Forest Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This beautiful woodland park offers miles of walking trails, panoramic views, and plenty of secluded picnic spots. Whether you prefer a peaceful spot in the woods or a scenic overlook with views of the surrounding countryside, you’re sure to find the perfect place to enjoy your picnic. After lunch, explore the park’s many trails, climb to the top of Otley Chevin for panoramic views, or visit the nearby market town of Otley.

Chevinforest.co.uk

The Yorkshire Dales National Park

With its rolling hills, peaceful valleys, and pretty rivers, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is packed with fantastic picnic spots, perfect for soaking in the area’s stunning natural beauty. You can spread out your blanket by the River Wharfe in Wharfedale, enjoy the green meadows at Malham Cove, or relax by the shores of Semerwater. Many spots have picnic tables and facilities, making them great for a chilled meal with family and friends.

Yorkshiredales.org.uk

Knaresborough Castle

Knaresborough Castle is a great spot for a picnic, with its cool historic ruins and awesome views of the River Nidd. The grounds are big and well-kept, giving you plenty of grassy spots to lay out a blanket and have a relaxing meal. With the Medieval castle as your backdrop and the charming town of Knaresborough nearby, it’s perfect for families, couples, and friends. Plus, Bebra Gardens is just around the corner, offering shady areas and pretty flowerbeds for a nice walk after your picnic.

Visitharrogate.co.uk

Valley Gardens, Harrogate

Valley Gardens in Harrogate is a perfect place for a picnic, with its beautifully landscaped gardens, open lawns, and shady spots under big trees. You’ll find colourful flowers, a cute stream, and lovely walkways, making it a great place to chill out and enjoy the outdoors. There’s also a playground, a paddling pool, and a café, so it’s awesome for families. Whether you want a quiet spot to relax or a fun area to hang out with friends and family, Valley Gardens has it all.

Visitharrogate.co.uk

Pateley Bridge

Spread out and chill by the River Nidd at Pateley Bridge. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, there are also fab places to eat if water isn’t your thing. Try the lush green fields, or one of the nearby parks, for a relaxed and fun picnic day.

Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey is an awesome spot with its beautiful riverside setting and huge parkland. The picturesque Abbey ruins make a cool backdrop, and you can pick from lots of great picnicking spots such as the riverbank, open fields, or shady areas under old trees. There are plenty of walking paths, family-friendly activities, and nearby facilities, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a fun day.

Boltonabbey.com

Brimham Rocks

With its cool rock formations and amazing views of the Yorkshire Dales, Brimham Rocks is a unique spot to chill out and enjoy some food. Simply spread your blanket out among the rocks and take in the beautiful moorland scenery.

Nationaltrust.org.uk/brimham-rocks

Fresh and Tasty

A look at what’s new and upcoming for Leeds’ coffee and food lovers.

Opposite | Stonegate Road

Open Now

After raving success in Chapel Allerton, Opposite has extended its brand to encompass a second coffee shop in Meanwood. Known for its diverse and delectable drinks menu, the shop also makes a great stop for brunch or a cinnamon roll to go! Its industrial, yet welcoming atmosphere alongside its delicious barista made coffee has quickly made it a North Leeds fan favourite! Oppositecafe.co.uk

Kirkstall Brewery | The Tetley | Open Now

Since the reopening of the iconic Tetley building, Kirkstall Brewery has assumed the lease, using the building to continue the legacy of Yorkshire Beer culture. Kirkstall aim to create a contemporary and welcoming venue for people to gather in celebrating the history of beer making in Leeds. Its own bar will be serving Kirkstall’s beers as well as recognising the buildings heritage and including traditional craft and cask brewers, including Tetley. Kirkstallbrewery.com

STACK

Caffé Concerto | Victoria Gate | TBC

Highly regarded London restaurant chain, Caffé Concerto, is set to open in Victoria Gate bringing its Italian charm and decedent celebration cakes. This award-winning Italian restaurant is wellknown in London for its exquisite menu, fine wines, and indulgent atmosphere which is perfect for special occasions. A spot to look out for, Caffé Concerto is a go-to for dinner, drinks, or an elegant afternoon tea.

Caffeconcerto.co.uk

Knoops | Trinity Leeds | June 2024

London hot chocolate café, Knoops, has made its way to Leeds after a successful move to the north in Manchester. The café lets you customise your own perfect hot chocolate, from which percentage of chocolate you would like in your beverage to add-ons like cinnamon, mint, and orange among many other flavours. And of course, it wouldn’t be hot chocolate if there wasn’t an option for marshmallows, at Knoops you can try its homemade jumbo-sized marshmallows which are so big and fluffy you’ll only need one per cup!

Knoops.co.uk

at Kirkgate Market | Leeds City Centre | TBC

Plans for a new food village at Leeds Kirkgate Market have taken a significant step forward for the trendy shipping container-style venue. STACK has recently been announced as the market’s new operator, STACK is a company which specialises in creating sustainable leisure destinations that offer a mix of street food and beverage outlets as well as events and entertainment. The reconfigured area will continue to accommodate all existing traders as well as new arrivals.

Visitleeds.co.uk

RAW Coffee | Mill Hill | Open Now

RAW Coffee is a café which was recently opened by husband-and-wife duo, James and Anya, with the loyal support of their French bulldog, Roo. The pair fully refurbished the coffee shop themselves to create a stylish minimalist interior which would look perfectly in place in a Scandi interior magazine. Selling a variety of hot and cold beverages, as well as cakes and baked goods, this is a great Instagramable space to take your friends.

On Instagram at @raw.coffeeleeds

PHOTO: FREEPENGUIN

Front and Centre

Legal firm WLR Law has purchased commercial, media, and sports law expert Front Row Legal, owned by Richard Cramer. The Chapel Allerton based firm became a leading player on the legal scene, representing many SMEs and family-owned businesses. Richard will be joined by Claire Dibb, WLR group CFO, also a well-known figure in the regional legal market, who will be part of the Senior Management Team, to help drive future growth. WLR Law Principal MD and Board Director Martin Collins, said:

“This merger is a celebration of shared values and our unwavering commitment to client success. Together we’re perfectly poised to drive further innovation in the way legal advice is delivered, improving the impact and accessibility for our clients.”

Hi Richard, so tell us how the acquisition came about?

We’d been talking to a few companies over the last few years about possible mergers, but a chance discussion over a coffee led to an introduction to Martin Collins of WLR. Martin’s company were on the acquisition trail for professional services, specifically within the legal sector, and it all went from there. We had several meetings before the agreement was signed and sealed, reaching a conclusion that works tremendously well in benefiting both parties and particularly, our clients.

So how will it affect Front Row Legal and its clients?

It’s business as usual, I’m definitely not retiring! I’ll remain as the managing partner of Front Row Legal, and Front Row Legal will retain its brand and position. Maintaining this consistency for our clients is really important to us, the only real change for our clients is the expansion of services we can offer them which will now include private client work such as conveyancing, wills and probate, and other professional services in finance and banking.

What’s the outlook for the future?

There’s an ambition to grow the business and the group in a strategic and controlled manner over the coming years. We are currently recruiting lawyers to come on board both at Front Row Legal and group wide. The group as a whole, has a fantastic infrastructure to be able to up-skill internally whilst developing business and providing a better overall service to our valued clients.

And for you personally, how will it affect you day to day?

Previously I was running a business and maintaining many of its day to day operations such as HR, Finance and IT, but the group has it’s own teams in these areas, which means I can free up my time to focus on building upon existing client relationships as well as developing new ones. We’ve had incredible support over the years for which I’m very thankful, and now we’re entering a new chapter with so much potential, we hope that support continues. It’s an incredibly positive time for me and the business to look forward to. Frontrowlegal.com

Skincare SOS

Achieving the flawless skin you’ve always dreamed of is possible if you know where your skins’ problem areas are and how to target them. Too often we buy skincare products without knowing the ingredients and their effects, or how products will react with one another, which could be preventing us from achieving the clear skin we’re aiming for.

Dryness

Emollients work by targeting the outermost layer of skin, called the stratum corneum, which needs about 20% to 30% water content to function at its best. If the water content drops too low, the skin cells start to dry out and shrivel up, causing small cracks to open up in the skin. Emollients can help by filling the spaces between cracks, smoothing rough and flaky skin. Because emollients tend to be light oils, water can’t easily cross through, so when they’re spread in a layer over the skin, they help keep water on the inside from escaping, preventing it from drying out further. Emollients also work well with plenty of other skincare ingredients, especially other moisturising agents.

Textured Skin

Niacinamide visibly minimises enlarged or lax pores, improves uneven skin tone, and strengthens a weakened skin surface. By boosting collagen production, Niacinamide can improve skin texture removing little bumps which typically form on the forehead, chin, or around the nose, and give a smoother complexion. Just make sure you don’t use other acidic skincare ingredients, like hyaluronic acid typically found in hydrating skincare products, alongside niacinamide products as this can cause irritation. Instead, try pairing with a ceramide to strengthen and maintain your skin barrier!

Dullness

Vitamin C is great for brightening dull skin and lifting dark spots such as acne scars. Since vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, it protects the skin from irritation and inflammation. When used in combination with SPF it can boost its efficiency in protecting your skin from sun damage. As always check what you can pair with vitamin C before adding it into your routine, vitamin C is a PH-sensitive ingredient so you’ll want to use products with a stabilised PH (you can find this out by checking for ‘PH-balanced’ on product labels) to achieve optimal results. Check out products with vitamin E to pair with vitamin C for a great antioxidant duo!

Leading geneticist, Dr Tal Sadeh, discusses the higher risk of breast cancer in the Jewish community, and urges people to get tested through the NHS’s new scheme.

Dr Tal Sadeh is a leading geneticist, having worked on genetic studies for 10 years and also taken part in several projects within the NHS. Tal specialises in breast cancer and has worked extensively with CR UK. Through this work, he focused on finding the genetic causes for cancer and finding new drugs which can target genetic conditions. He also created a programme which detects gene mutations, which is currently used in the NHS.

The Jewish community is at a much higher risk for developing cancer due to a genetic mutation, and Tal explains why: “We all have certain genes in our body, and some genes have mutations, where they’re not functioning properly. When we have children, half the DNA comes from the mother and half from the father. In the Jewish community, we’re very close-kit, so our genetic pool has actually not grown as wide as the general population. That has left us 10 times more likely to have the faulty gene which causes breast cancer, BRCA. The general population has a one in 400 chance, but in the Jewish community –specifically Ashkenazi Jewish – it’s one in 40.”

The NHS is now offering a free test for the faulty BRCA gene to anyone who has a Jewish grandparent. If you wish to take the test, you can speak to your GP, contact the NHS directly, or approach a number of charities such as

Better Safe Than Sorry

Jnetics, and a test kit will be sent to your house. The test itself is simple to prepare, requiring you just to give a saliva sample and then post it back, much like the popular ancestry DNA kits available by post. Within a few weeks a genetic counsellor will contact you with the results and well as providing your GP with a copy. Should the test show that you do have the mutated gene, there are treatment options available to prevent the mutation from causing you to develop cancer.

Taking such a test can be a daunting prospect for some people, but Tal has some advice to offer to those who are unsure:

“Speak to your GP. Speak to your friends and neighbours in the community. So many people have lost someone, or know someone who has, and just being able to actually prevent it and save lives is incredible. Prevention is better than a cure and the aim of the NHS is to reduce the prevalence of breast cancer nationally. Knowledge is power when it comes to anything to do with genetics, and knowing this from an early stage is amazing. It’s not only about you as an individual, it’s about your whole family. It’s about your daughters, and granddaughters, and every generation after you as well, because it’s genetically inherited.”

Our expert team is here to help you along your skin journey. As a medic-led clinic, each of us is passionate about helping you achieve results that are transformative yet natural-looking… we don’t want to take away from what makes you, you!

We’ll curate your bespoke treatment plan depending on your goals and preferences, combining clinically proven treatments and products:

Medical Injectable Treatments

Bespoke

ALLSKIN | MED Professional Skincare

Micro-needling

Skin Peels

Dermalux LED Therapy

With Roundhay Aesthetics

With warmer weather and holiday season approaching now is the perfect time to talk about the importance of using sun protection daily, regardless of the weather. Let’s take a look at some of the facts around sun damage, and how to best protect your skin:

• There are four key wavelengths from the sun that are known to damage the skin: UVB, UVA, visible light, and infrared-A.

• UVB is responsible for burning the skin, UVA, visible light, and infrared-A cause damage that can prematurely age the skin.

• UVA, visible light, and infrared-A are present all year round and penetrate cloud and glass, so your skin is at risk of damage even on rainy winter days.

With Elaine Broadbent of The Laurels Clinic

As podiatrists people often make an assumption that we ‘just cut toe nails’. Podiatrists are highly skilled and trained health care professionals, who specialise in lower limb and feet. They have extensive knowledge and scope of practice from diabetic patients to paediatrics from wound care to surgery for ingrown toe nails. So when thinking of your podiatrist don’t just think feet, think limb.

Sun Safe SKIN CARE

• The sun is responsible for over 80% of premature skin ageing. SPF (Sun protection factor) only relates to protection against UVB. For the best protection check that your sunscreen product provides broad spectrum protection against all damaging rays.

• To get the full level of SPF protection shown on your product you need to use about two full finger lengths of product for the face alone. Using any less than this hugely affects the level of protection you get – using half the amount can drop your protection from SPF50 to around SPF10.

• SPF in makeup is not enough to protect your skin – imagine how much makeup you apply, and how much protection

you are getting. Not forgetting, it’s only protecting against UVB.

• The best way to protect yourself from the sun is to seek shade, wear a broad brimmed hat, cover up where possible and wear high-level broad spectrum sun protection every day.

At Roundhay Aesthetics we recommend Heliocare to all of our clients – sun protection is an essential step in every skincare routine. Heliocare protects the skin against UVA, UVB, visible light (including blue light from devices) and infrared-A. There are also lots of different textures, so you’ll be able to find a product that you’ll love to use every day.

Roundhayaesthetics.co.uk

Mobility Means Independence PODIATRY

Here are five top tips for better leg health

• Keep active.

• Don’t smoke ever or try to stop. Your GP or health care professionals can help.

• Eat a healthy well balanced diet to help maintain good tissue viability and strong skeletal and muscular strength.

• Check feet for irritation such as blisters, athletes foot verrucae etc and get professional advice from your podiatrist if any problems.

• Never treat yourself if you have diabetes or underlying health condition.

Now the weather is getting warmer, wash feet with antibacterial soap and dry thoroughly. Especially between toes. Apply foot spray if your feet get hot or sweaty and don’t forget to cream those heels. Change your socks daily and don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. If your feet and legs feel tired and achy your podiatrist will examine them and recommend a treatment program. Fungal infection of the skin and nails can be more common in the summer, please see your podiatrist for expert opinion and advice. Remember mobility equals independence.

Don’t suffer with any problem. If you think you may be suffering from any of the conditions above, please call us on 0113 232 0060 or email

Info@garforthpodiatryclinic.co.uk

With James Daly, Founder of James Daly Opticians

Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammation that affects the thin layer of tissue that covers part of the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids (conjunctiva). It is not normally serious and is sometimes referred to as pink or red eye.

There are two other forms of conjunctivitis –bacterial and viral.

Risk factors

Allergic conjunctivitis is commonly caused by a sensitivity to grass and tree pollen, dust mites or animals. It is far more common in those with a history of allergies or those who have a family history of allergies.

Symptoms

Allergic conjunctivitis usually causes pink or red itchy eyes. The eyes are normally watery and other allergy symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose may be present.

With Meharban Singh Riyat, Clinical Audiologist and Director of Simply Hearing

Exostosis is an abnormal bone growth within the ear canal which is more commonly known as Surfer’s Ear. This is prevalent in swimmers, scuba divers, and surfers hence the term Surfer’s Ear. The most common cause of this is frequent and prolonged exposure to cold wind and water. Individuals who also enjoy skiing, kayaking, fishing, and sailing are also prone to exostosis when exposed to these forms of conditions.

Exposure to cold wind and water causes the abnormal outgrowth (Lumps) of bone surrounding the ear canal. It is thought that cold water causes inflammation and increases vascularity, producing the boney growth

OPTICAL

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

The seasonal type of allergic conjunctivitis will vary with the time of year and weather conditions. Those with more general allergies, such as an allergy to dust mites, will most likely have symptoms throughout the year.

Treatment

You can treat allergic conjunctivitis by:

• Avoiding the cause of the allergy (if possible)

• Using cold compresses (such as clean cotton wool balls soaked in cold water) to soothe the eyes

• Avoiding rubbing your eyes as this will make the symptoms worse

There is also a range of medicines that may help. Some are available over the counter at the pharmacy and other stronger medicines need a prescription.

Mast-cell stabiliser eye drops such as sodium cromoglicate (Opticrom) do not work straight away. Instead, they take a few days to start to work. These drops are good if you know when you are likely to develop an allergy and so you can use them to prevent symptoms. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell which are part of the immune system.

Antihistamine eye drops such as antazoline sulphate (Otrivine-Antistin) provide a more immediate effect. They won’t prevent an allergic reaction, but instead treat the symptoms once the allergy has started.

Combined eye drops have both types of medicine (mast-cell stabiliser and antihistamine) and so can work in the two ways shown above. They are only available on prescription.

Antihistamine tablets work in the same way as the eye drops but will also treat other allergy symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing that is caused by the allergy.

You should not wear contact lenses if your symptoms are severe or if you have been told that your cornea is affected. Do not put drops in your eyes while wearing contact lenses.

Occasionally you may need to be referred to an allergy specialist if the condition does not get better with treatment or the symptoms are very severe, but this is rare.

Jamesdalyopticians.co.uk

BETTER HEARING

Surfer’s Ear

which is thought to thicken and constrict the ear canal. Exostosis by itself is not harmful, but when it becomes significant, it can cause issues.

Symptoms of Exostosis

• Increase in the prevalence of ear infections due to recurrent water trapping (unable to drain) in the ear canal after swimming, combining with debris and ear wax can lead to painful and repeated ear infections.

• If the exostosis becomes substantial it can lead to complete blockage of the ear canal causing conductive hearing loss.

Treatment of Exostosis

• First port of call is to see your GP especially if you have a history of prolonged exposure to cold wind and water in such sports as mentioned.

• Exostosis is difficult to diagnose and manage without a comprehensive medical

examination from an ENT specialist. Depending on the stage of exostosis appropriate treatment will be prescribed, such as antibiotics. If the exostosis has advanced to a state causing recurrent ear infections or hearing loss, then a referral to an ENT surgeon is required for surgical intervention to remove the growth.

Exostosis is preventable by taking the following steps:

• Avoid activity during extremely cold or windy/wet conditions.

• Wear custom made ear protection to prevent cold water /wind exposure especially in extreme sports - surfing and swimming.

• Wear a swim cap or hood in addition to ear plugs.

Visit Simply Hearing for more information. Simply-hearing.com

Co Ltd & Ankle

FOOT OR ANKLE PAIN?

One of the most senior orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons in Leeds

Expert and comprehensive treatment for all foot and ankle problems

A painful ankle has many possible causes, ranging from joint instability to arthritis, and it’s possible to treat almost every problem, relieve pain and restore function. Mr Monkhouse treats the entire range of foot and ankle problems, with a special interest in sports injuries, persistent pain after an ankle injury or just exercise, joint instability, mid-foot pain or pain in the ball of the foot when standing.

Other specialist interests include surgical management, tendon transfers and selective joint fusions of neuromuscular deformities of the foot and ankle, whether from stroke, congenital degenerative nerve problems, cerebral palsy or nerve injury. Mr Monkhouse treats traumatic injuries of feet, ankles and achilles tendons.

Hallux valgus surgery

• Big toe arthritis surgery

Bunionectomy

• Toe straightening

Ankle ligament repair/ reconstruction

• Ankle keyhole surgery

Achilles tendon surgery

• Major foot joint fusions (ankle, hindfoot and midfoot)

Mr Ray Monkhouse Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon

Amy Stott - Practice Manager enquiries@ankleandco.com 0113 3882147 / 07872 507539

The Nuffield Hospital 0113 388 2000

2 Leighton Street, Leeds LS1 3EB

Five Years of Smiles

The Dentist celebrates five years of innovation and excellence at its clinic in

Moortown.

In the heart of North Leeds you’ll find The Dentist, Moortown, which strives to bring the latest in dental technology to our community. This year, as it celebrates its fiveyear anniversary, its team reflects on a journey marked by determination, innovation, and unwavering commitment to community health. Behind this success is Dr James Taylor and Dr Mike Goldstone who share insights into their adventure, the hurdles they’ve overcome, and their ongoing pursuit of dental advancements.

What inspired you to start your own practice in LS17?

MG: It all began with a shared vision between James and I, we wanted to create a dental practice that not only met but exceeded our expectations of how we wanted to work and care for our patients. Our goal was to provide the best dental care right here in our community.

JT: Absolutely, and finding the perfect site was crucial! We stumbled upon a house, right next to the doctor’s surgery within the bustling Moortown Corner, and knew it was the one. It was a gamble buying it without planning permission, but I could envisage how great it could be and with a strong focus on anticipating future needs and a keen eye for effective design solutions. It was quite the leap of faith, but we had a solid plan and an amazing team, including Laura Benmayor as our main contractor, which turned our vision into reality.

Within six months, The Dentist opened its doors in May 2019.

You soon hit uncertain times with the pandemic, how did you navigate through?

MG: The pandemic was a setback, as it was for everyone. We had to close our doors in March 2020, which was tough. But, thanks to James’s foresight in stocking up on PPE — jokingly, our most valuable dental equipment at the time — we were able to reopen three months later, safely and responsibly.

JT: We adapted quickly, implementing new processes like online consultations to keep our business running and, most importantly, to continue serving our patients safely.

Tell us more about your recent achievements and contributions to the dental community!

JT: We’ve been fortunate enough to grow our team to 15 full-time members, including six clinicians. We now serve not just the local community but patients from across Yorkshire, London, and even as far as Dubai.

Beyond our practice, Mike and I have had opportunities to excel further in dentistry. My involvement as a C-Docs lecturer and a key opinion leader for SureSmile clear aligners allows me to share our practices and innovations on a global stage. Teaching in locations from Las Vegas to Warsaw isn’t just about lecturing; it’s about exchanging knowledge and learning from the global dental community.

MG: We’re also involved in the PEERS (Platform for Exchange of Experience, Research and Science) advisory board, which offers professionals a platform to learn and stay at the forefront of dental advancements. Through various study clubs, we engage with other professionals to share experiences and insights. It’s about fostering a community of continuous learning and improvement, which directly benefits our patients and the broader dental field.

As The Dentist celebrates its five-year anniversary, its journey stands as a testament to dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence. Their story is not just about the success of a dental practice, but about setting new standards in patient care and community service.

The Dentist invites you to experience all the exceptional dental care it can offer, whether you’re seeking routine care or the latest in dental innovations, James, Mike, and their dedicated team are ready to welcome you.

Join The Dentist in celebrating five years of smiles, health, and community. Visit The Dentist today by calling 0113 323 8863 or scan the QR code here to see how it can enhance your smile.

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

TAKING A STAND

Following their support at the recent March Against Antisemitism in Leeds, Karen and Gordon Beattie, the UK Prayer Co-ordinators of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, tell us how the organisation is tackling rising antisemitism in the UK.

The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) was established in 1980 with the aim of raising support for Israel across Christian communities globally. The organisation currently represents millions of Christians across 100 different countries. Karen and Gordon Beattie are the organisation’s UK Prayer Coordinators and Karen explains how they came to be involved: “About 20 years ago, we were in a church in the Wirral and there was a group that prayed for Israel. We went to a few of the annual ICEJ conferences, and we always kept a loose connection with them, but paths go on different steams. We really felt the need to reconnect back five years ago. Israel was doing well financially but we knew it needed a lot of prayer and support from the Christian community.”

Since October 7th, there has been a national prayer call from the ICEJ headquarters in Jerusalem. Karen and Gordon co-ordinate all the prayer for the UK: “There are over 150 nations represented in the prayer call, so they have a panel of ICEJ leaders, Jewish representatives, pastors from the land of Israel and from other nations. They also give up-to-date information on what’s happening in Gaza and at the northern border.”

The couple have managed to visit Israel several times through their work with the ICEJ and were struck with the country’s beauty, as Gordon shares: “It’s wonderful to be able to support Israel, particularly at this time. The reception we receive when we do marches there, with people from different nations marching through the streets of Israel, it’s marvellous. I love Jerusalem, especially the old city.”

Another important aspect of the ICEJ’s is tackling rising antisemitism, and Karen and Gordon recently spoke at a March Against Antisemitism in Leeds City Centre. Karen shares some thoughts on this goal: “The ICEJUK are prepared to stand with the Jewish community. We have representatives right across the UK and we’re more than willing to come and share our work. We want the Jewish community to know that there are people standing with them.”

Find out more at Icej.org

VOLUNTEER RECOGNISED

LJWB volunteer Barbara Cline will be recognised at the Celebrating Volunteer Diversity Exhibition at Leeds City Museum this month.

LJWB is happy to share the wonderful news that one of its fabulous volunteers, Barbara Cline, will be featured in the Celebrating Volunteer Diversity Exhibition at Leeds City Museum on 5th June!

Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL) and artist and painters, Polly Chilcott and Farhad Abdulla, have joined forces to celebrate volunteers in Leeds. The project is inspired by the remarkable, but often overlooked contribution from volunteers within our diverse communities. Polly and Farhad have created a series of original artworks which showcase the different ways that volunteers transform our city and the board’s very own Barbara Cline will be featured.

Third generation, British born, Barbara sees her culture as being a mix of English culture and Jewish background. Barbara’s has a very strong sense of community, when people ask for help she shows up and gives what she can, always finding a way. Barbara quotes: “This is what it is, something happens and we’re there. It’s not a question of thinking about it. I used to go from primary school straight to help my grandma. It was not expected of me, but I expected it of me which makes a difference. That’s what my family did.”

KAREN AND GORDON BEATTIE

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY HISTORY REMEMBERED

Holocaust Centre North launches a new summer activity programme full of thought-provoking events.

Now open on Sundays from 11am throughout summer, Holocaust Centre North – based at the University of Huddersfield – is launching a brand-new programme of weekend events, talks and family activities to enable visitors of all ages to creatively engage with its permanent exhibition.

Holocaust Centre North tells a global history of the Holocaust through a northern lens, sharing over 120 local stories and materials from survivors and refugees who rebuilt their lives in the north of England after escaping or surviving Nazi persecution. This new and largely free programme of weekly events include talks, workshops, story-telling and interactive activities which will all bring to life the centre’s collections and archives and its themes of survival, persecution, history, loss, migration, resilience, and hope.

Upcoming events include:

An Unspectacular War Book Launch | 2nd June | 1pm

Tracy Craggs is Holocaust Centre North’s Head of Collections, but she has also interviewed members of the armed forces for 25 years, both for her doctoral thesis ‘An Unspectacular War? Reconstructing the History of the 2nd Battalion East Yorkshire Regiment during the Second World War’ and also on behalf of museums and archives across the UK. Her first book resulted from a promise she made to the veterans of the 2nd Battalion to tell their story. Her talk aims to bring to life the memories of some of the men who landed on Sword Beach on D-Day. She will describe, in their own words, what it was like to prepare for, and take part in, this momentous day.

Through Our Eyes Exhibition Tour | 9th June | 1pm

Join the centre’s staff at 1pm for an exclusive tour around its permanent exhibition ‘Through Our Eyes’ and hear some of the stories of Holocaust survivors that couldn’t fit into the exhibition.

‘A Flower Is Not A Rat’ Performance | 16th June | 1pm

The centre will be visited by storyteller Ruth Steinberg for an afternoon of stories, music, and humour for her performance of ‘A Flower Is Not A Rat’. Join us for a thought-provoking performance!

Cost: £5 / £3.50 for OAPs and University of Huddersfield students

Hannah Randall, Head of Learning at Holocaust Centre North comments: “Our Sunday events give new audiences the chance to engage with our work who normally may not be able to due to their work or family commitments. Sundays also give us the space to offer programming outside our usual offer to bring history to life through hands-on activities, talks, and creative programming.”

Holocaust Centre North is open every Sunday for visitors from 11am to 3.30pm; and on Mondays to Thursdays 10am to 4pm. Hcn.org.uk

It was last February that I was diagnosed with high risk Neuroblastoma. The diagnosis was a real shock as I had no symptoms apart from a tummy ache.

I knew about Chai because they’d helped us when my grandpa was unwell, so it felt really good to know that they would be able to help us all again.

For Dad it was counselling, for Mum it was therapeutic massage and for me and my siblings, a combination of talking, music, art and play therapy.

Thank you Chai.

Ari, 13

It felt really g d that Chai was there f me and all my family

To fi nd out more about Chai’s specialised services, please call our freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit chaicancercare.org or scan the QR code

Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No. 1078956

NEWS IN BRIEF

Catch Up with the LJWB

LJWB has launched its new, fresh, dynamic, user-friendly website where you can keep up to date with the wide range of services, events, activities, news, food offers and what’s coming up.

LJWB is has also recently announced the launch of its new catering service, Leeds Kosher Kitchen. Looking forward to nourishing the community with a wide variety of exciting food offers.

Leeds Kosher Kitchen is an exciting new community-led venture, that not only gives LJWB the opportunity for a fresh approach to food, but it also allows you to support the community, as all profits will be donated back to Leeds Jewish Welfare Board.

Lots of the old favourites with remain, but watch out for exciting new menu options, special offers, and more.

Plus, if you’re looking for a place to watch the match on 16th June you can join LJWB for burger and beers while watching England’s first game in the Euros. Booking is essential, just call 0113 218 5833 for more details.

Leeds Lit Fest Returns

This year’s Leeds Lit Fest is back running from 15th June to 23rd June. One of Milim’s contributions is an evening with Jewish comedian, Helen Lederer, on 20th June about her book, Not That I’m Bitter.

Helen was a regular on the stand-up circuit and new-wave sketch shows in the decade that launched the careers of today’s comedy household names and national treasures. From the iconic Absolutely Fabulous, to Bottom, Happy Families, Naked Video, French and Saunders, and Girls on Top; Helen has been a big part of the comedy scene.

Not That I’m Bitter is a powerful, frank, moving and characteristically funny memoir, revealing exactly how choppy the waters could be. Even in those ground-breaking, anti-Thatcher days, there was only room at the top for so many women. For the rest, it was as much a struggle to be seen and heard in the world of comedy as in any boardroom or workplace – and just as difficult to avoid the predators.

King Continues Patronage of JLGB

King Charles has confirmed he will continue as the Royal Patron of Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade. The news arrived on the first anniversary of the King’s coronation.

The decision comes after a comprehensive review of more than 1,000 organisations previously under the patronage of the late Queen, the former Prince of Wales, and the former Duchess of Cornwall.

To celebrate the positive announcement JLGB is inviting the public to support its ongoing efforts to provide inclusive and impactful programming which uplifts Jewish young people across the UK.

Israeli Director Debuts at Tribeca Film Festival

Tom Nesher, a young Israeli film director, has been selected to screen his debut film, Come Closer, at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City as a part of its Viewpoints section from 5th to 16th June.

The film stars Lia Elalouf and Daria Rosen as the two central leads, both of whom are newcomers to the film industry. The film tells the story of Eden, a young woman who cares deeply for her younger brother, believing there are no boundaries or secrets between them. When he is involved in a fatal accident, Eden discovers his secret girlfriend, Maya. As Eden yearns to learn more about Maya the two women build an obsessive bond driven by their grief.

Nesher says: “In these difficult days, when we see boycotts of Israeli art and huge demonstrations around the world (and in New York in particular) it is a great pride for us that the film was chosen to be shown at a prestigious festival like the Tribeca Festival, in the heart of Manhattan.”

Israel Wins Public Recognition at Eurovision

Israel received the second highest score from the public vote at this years’ Eurovision Song Contest with the song Hurricane, performed by Eden Golan.

The 20-year-old singer said: “It is a huge privilege that I am here, and that I had the opportunity to represent our country, especially in moments like this. I felt the love from the nation, and you cannot understand how much it helped me.”

Eden received congratulation for her performance by Israeli president Isaac Herzog, saying: “I want to say thank you on behalf of the entire nation of Israel. Your performance was so moving. You stood proudly in the face of all the haters of Israel and all the antisemitic attackers. It was a difficult national task, and I’m very thankful.”

Leeds Author Releases New Book

Grace Olson, author, therapist, and animal lover who was featured on Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet, with her wonderful therapy sheep, is releasing her new book, The Farm.

The story follows Grace, a horse owner who becomes the mistress of her own land –a reality which is quite different to what she imagined it would be. Echoes of the past trigger a downhill spiral and Grace must find the courage to face her mental demons.

A laugh-out-loud funny, but also deeply moving story which beautifully depicts the glorious Yorkshire countryside in novel form.

LJHA Staff Hear Survivor’s Stories

Staff from the Leeds Jewish Housing Association recently visited the Holocaust Centre North to listen to the stories of Leisel Carter and Trude Silman. The visit also allowed them to learn of the work the centre does in Huddersfield University and beyond and visit the HCN’s permanent exhibition, Through Their Eyes.

Simon Phillips, LJHA’s Community Engagement Officer, said he was proud to have hosted and supported Holocaust survivors in Leeds, commenting: “One such survivor, Heinz Skyte, was Chief Executive of the LJHA for many years and instrumental in setting up the Housing Association in 1953. Through Skyte House his memory lives on as we continue to be inspired by all Holocaust survivors.”

The Zone Unveils New Café and Ice Cream Bar

The Zone celebrated 10 years since its opening with the unveiling of a new café, Brown’s Café, and a dedicated ice cream bar, Andrew’s, both named in honour of the late Andrew Brown, who generously supported The Zone over the years.

The unveiling event included a carnival, giant inflatables and a big screen for the play off final at the youth club on the Henry Cohen Campus.

The Leading Stonemasons

Pool Perfect

Take your poolside and beachwear outfits to the next level with these summer holiday essentials for the girls.

Black Tropical and Patchwork Print

Swimdress with Gold Trim | Bonmarché | £28

Tired of having to select from the same old options for a swimming costume or bikini? Try out a swim dress like this one from Bonmarché which has extra coverage over the legs, a hidden tummy control underlayer for extra support, and a flared skirt to achieve a beautiful hourglass figure. Simply add some sandals for a perfect day by the poolside.

Bonmarche.co.uk

Squiggle Print Kaftan | Monsoon | £59

Spending a day by the pool, going for a trip to the beach, or just want to cover up your costume to walk around the hotel, this kaftan can do it all. Delightfully bold in pattern and colour this swimwear cover-up makes a great summer dress on its own and gives you excellent coverage away from the water.

Monsoon.co.uk

Linen V Neck Sleeveless Jumpsuit | Celtic & Co. | £145

Summer fashion doesn’t have to mean summer dresses only. With the Celtic & Co. jumpsuit you can add a timeless piece of classic style to your suitcase, the light fabric will still keep you cool in the summer sun while giving you greater coverage on your legs. Plus, you won’t have to worry about any shock Marylin moments on a windy beach!

Celticandco.com

Giovanna x Regatta Floral Change Robe | Avenue 85 | £65

Planning on doing some water sports at the beach? Everyone who has just been surfing or paddle boarding knows the worst part is when you’ve just finished, changing out of your swimming costume without a changing room to duck in. With this change robe, not only will it help you transition out of your wet garments, but it’s also lined with quick drying fabric to keep you warm and dry.

Avenue85.co.uk

Round Cat Eye Sunglasses | M&S | £15

Protect your eyes from the glare with these cat eye sunglasses and give your features a flattering lift. Taking any outfit from casual to chic, their curved shape will flatter almost any face shape. A classic and timeless shape of frame which you can get in one of three colours, sand, brown mix, and black.

Marksandspencer.com

The line-up at Comedy Unleashed really proves laughter is the best medicine. We caught up with MC of the night and Jewish comedian, Josh Howie, to take us behind the scenes.

Get ready for an evening of laughter and solidarity! A line-up of Jewish comedians will be performing on 7th June with no jokes off limits. Comedy Unleashed proudly presents comedians, Lewis Schaffer, Lenny Sherman, and Jonathan Kogan, alongside the evening’s MC, Josh Howie. Josh, who has been performing stand-up for over 20 years and has a column in The Jewish Chronicle, tells us more.

Hi Josh! How are you feeling about MCing this gig?

There is something special about the role of being an MC because you’re there to host the evening, you’re there to make people feel comfortable, to let them know that this is a safe place to laugh and have fun. But also your job is to make a connection with the audience; when I do my set of course I have to bring people with me, that’s part of the art form of being a comic, but it’s much more direct when you MC things because you get to do a bit of both and you get to find out more about the audience.

I’m excited to be there in the room with people who have a shared understanding and have come out to have a laugh. Live comedy is great because the audience can go out for a pint with the comics after the show which really breaks down those barriers which exist between the performer and the audience. It’s a very comforting feeling of being among like-minded people.

During this tough time for the community how important is comedy as a way to address big issues and offer a welcome distraction?

Some comics are political, and they talk about what’s going on or they slightly refer to it. I think it’s always good to bring people together and to be able to shine a light on issues and be funny about it. Because even in the most

horrendous circumstances, there’s always going to be scope for humour, which points out the madness of the world which we are living in.

All the comics on that night are very different and have different ways of addressing things, not everyone is going to be political in that way – there’s going to be a bit of both. There’ll be an opportunity to bring people together through laughter, while addressing what has been going on.

It can make for a tough audience, especially British Jewish audiences because historically I think there’s a sense of playing it safe or not wanting to rock the boat, but I think that’s changing now. I’ve always been very loudly Jewish, and I think younger Jews are also willing to put themselves forward as Jews without being apologetic. And maybe that’s the only silver lining from recent events with Jewish people saying: ‘You know what, it didn’t work to try

Do you feel more at home doing comedy with the Jewish community?

I’ll let you in on a little secret… Jewish audiences are the worst audiences in the world, or should I say, the trickiest. Comedy is part of our culture, so in a way it makes it a doubly tough audience because Jewish audiences know comedy. Also, they tend to be pretty funny themselves so there’s this attitude sometimes where they’re like: ‘Well, yeah that’s ok but my son could do better.’

and fade into the background.’ Now we have to stand our ground and stake our claim as British Jews, and not apologise.

Comedy Unleashed is at The Hi-Fi Club, Leeds, 7th June.

Comedyunleashed.co.uk

Men’s mental health advocate Richard Abrahams talks about the importance of men’s mental health awareness and its antidote, his upcoming self-improvement event, REWIRED.

Date: 13th June 2024

MODA Living, New York Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds LS2 7BT

The Road Back

If you’d asked Richard Abrahams, MD of Elmhurst Windows, and well-known celebrity, how he felt in 2018 he would have said minus ten. After spending the following years on recovery and promoting men’s mental health awareness, he admits he’s feeling like more of a six these days. But overcoming the adversity of the days when he had to give up working at his business, a cornerstone of the Leeds community, wasn’t easy. He says: “My elderly parents had to run the business and my wife had to stop working to be my carer. I was out of action for a few months, but I did recover quite quickly and then I decided that I’d devote a lot of my time to talk about my experience.” Fuelled by his passion for public speaking, Richard aims to not let men’s mental health go unnoticed any longer.

Close family and friends who know Richard well would never have expected what happened to him, and that’s what makes it so important for everyone to understand the message. Beginning with a speech at the Leeds Jewish Welfare Board’s annual dinner which earned a standing ovation, Richard began addressing the struggles of men’s mental health while running an SME,

SUMMER FUN

especially in the construction industry which has a high rate of men’s depression and suicide, saying: “I had a tremendous amount of people come up to me and say ‘wow, I’ve got problems too.’”

The overwhelming response only further displayed the current need for men to have their struggles heard, so decided he would host the first Men’s Mental Health Day, alongside Dr. Rob Baskind, called REWIRED on 13th June at Moda, Leeds, with the ambition to allow men unlock their best self. The event has speakers, workshops, and panels all for men to meet one another and learn how to help themselves and each other with their mental wellbeing, encouraging men to not settle for ordinary but to strive for more. Richard is passionate about supporting men in the workplace and helping them to achieve their full potential without sacrificing their mental health.

Tickets for REWIRED are on sale on the website and a percentage of all ticket sales will be donated to Leeds Mind.

Rewiredevents.org.uk

Dan Cohen, Councillor for Alwoodley, lays out what’s coming up in the ward over the summer.

Well, it’s official! Summer is nearly upon us (and as I write that, I’m desperately hoping that the few days of sun we had in May wasn’t all we’re getting). It’s time to look ahead warm walks in Roundhay Park, a cheeky afternoon drink in the Darcy (the Dexter and New Inn at Eccup are also available) and hazy evening barbecues (Gourmet’s burgers and sausages are especially good for this). Before we know it, we’ll be dusting down the welly boots again, so let’s enjoy it while we can.

Summer will, of course, be far more enjoyable if The Mighty Leeds United managed to do their stuff at Wembley on 26th May. I watched the second leg of the semi-final against Norwich at the Alwoodley Community Association – the next best thing to being at Elland Road. As I write, I look forward to a packed house for the final – membership available at the ACA website.

On a theme of making the most of summer, on the evening of 6th July (which I am assured will be one of the finest evenings of the year),

Alwoodley Community Association are hosting a whisky night. Five cask strength single malt whiskies will be on the tasting menu and the event will be hosted by … me! I faithfully promise that this will be a fabulous evening – all the details, including how to buy tickets (which are selling very quickly) can be found on the Alwoodley Ward Residents Facebook Group (or you can just give me a call).

Of course, summer wouldn’t be summer without Alwoodley Parish Council’s Band on the Green concerts. The first of these takes place on 9th June, featuring A Stroke of Genius Big Band and celebrating the 80th anniversary of D Day. The second is being held on 16th August and will see Sound Track Brass taking to the stage (or the field to be more accurate). Both of these free concerts start at 2.30pm and end around 4.30pm. Huge thanks to Alwoodley Parish Council for ensuring these Village Green events take place once again this year.

One week after the first Band on the Green

concert is, of course, Father’s Day on 16th June. I mention this here as much to ensure that my own children can’t say that they hadn’t realised it was so soon, as well as a public service broadcast. Ever to the rescue, this month’s JLife has a feature on Father’s Day and as if that wasn’t enough, the feature on Wetherby and Boston Spa might give you an idea of a great place to go for your Father’s Day lunch or afternoon tea!

Finally, a huge and unreserved thank you to every single person that voted to keep our Alwoodley team of councillors together and supported Neil at 2nd May local elections. We don’t, for one moment, take your support for granted. Neil, Lyn, and I are truly honoured not only to be your councillors, but for the trust you put in us.

Cllr Dan Cohen

Leeds City Councillor for Alwoodley 07711 647 849

Dan.Cohen@leeds.gov.uk

Running is a love-hate form of exercise; gaining hardcore fans who gather expensive gear, or friends of those same people to who the words, ‘I’m just going to go for a quick run’, sounds like a form of torture. Whether you like it or not it’s undeniable that running is one of the easiest exercises to train for, all you need is a route and a pair of trainers to get started. And if that’s not enough of a structured plan for you to get going, there are plenty of free resources about it to help you.

Couch to 5K

Developed by the NHS, Couch to 5K is a nineweek running plan aimed at absolute beginners. Written by new runner Josh Clark, who wanted to get his 50-something mum off the sofa and running too, the plan involves three runs per week with rest days in between and a new schedule each week.

Couch to 5K is a plan which uses intervals training, a method for running which means you run for a few minutes and then walk for a few minutes and alternate between the two. The week one plan for Couch to 5K has you running for just one minute at a time before taking a rest to walk for a minute and a half –an easily accessible start for everyone. What’s more, Couch to 5K even has a podcast and app companion which you can find on the NHS website and in the app store respectively.

On the Run

There is plenty of media out there to answer all your questions, podcasts such as Run Buzz Running Podcast (an informative podcast which covers the technique and science behind

running) or The Strength Running Podcast (which features running advice from Coach, Jason Fitzgerald) are great places to start.

Or if you’re more visual, then get in the mindset by consuming life stories of runners and famous races such as the Barkley Marathons, an ultramarathon trail race held in Tennessee known for its inspiring stories and peculiarities in its rules, such as having to collect book pages corresponding to entrants’ race number on each lap of its circuit.

If you want to use running as a form of selfcare or mindful time, then check out running meditations which you can listen to while you run on Headspace or YouTube.

Race Day

Having a clear goal in mind is the best way to see results and what better way to get started with running than once a week to work or aiming towards entering a race with friends to keep you accountable. Training is the key for a race day, so follow a plan which will prepare you properly for the big day as you increase your intensity. Here are some local runs coming up in the area.

Leeds 10k Sunday 23rd June 2024

Leeds Inflatable 5k 29th June – Harewood

Golden Acre Relay – 16th July –Golden Acre Park

Leeds Running Festival 18th August –Roundhay Park

Global Running Day is on 5th June, so it’s time to warm up and get involved.

GOOD JOB

LJFS has good news following its highly anticipated Ofsted inspection.

LJFS is delighted that following its recent Ofsted inspection it continues to be judged as good. Ofsted recognised the unique and supportive school LJFS is and with its new head in place, school was taking all the steps necessary to ensure every student achieves to the very best of their ability.

Cllr Dan Cohen LJFS Chair of Governors said: “I can do no better than quote directly from the report itself when it describes our school. It sums up what makes LJFS the unique school it is – designed specifically for our community’s young people. The report told us:

“This is a school that values diversity,

inclusivity, and kindness. Pupils feel accepted for who they are and appreciate the supportive environment created by their peers and the staff.

One pupil, typical of many, said: ‘You can’t pick your family, but you can pick your school and I would pick this school every day.’ Staff and parents agree. They know they are part of a special community that works well together.”

Newly appointed Executive Headteacher Charley Kelsey said: “I am really pleased that the report recognises LJFS for the school it is. That it recognises the commitment of our staff and all of our school community and

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

that it recognises we are moving our school, our curriculum and our outcomes in the right direction.”

“Following our recent Outstanding Pikuach inspection, every one of us is. now absolutely committed to taking the leaning and guidance from the report, and rapidly moving LJFS towards Outstanding, not just in terms of Ofsted judgments, but in every aspect of what we do and achieve with our students and our community.”

LEND A HAND

LJWB launches its new mental health campaign and celebrates its recent recognition from Leeds City Council in its excellence in volunteering.

LJWB is launching it’s 2024 mental health campaign with guest speaker, Richard McCann on the evening of 27th June. Guests will hear from a wonderful guest speaker as well as getting an overview of its new fundraising campaign.

LJWB hope to inspire you to support its campaign as it aims to raise £125,000 specifically to help those in our community who require much needed mental health support.

Recognised for its helpful attitude towards others, LJWB has also recently been awarded a Quality Mark from Voluntary Action Leeds, acknowledging its excellence in volunteering. This prestigious recognition wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible dedication and hard work of the amazing bank of over 240 volunteers.

The Quality Mark, recognised by Leeds City Council, is a testament to the high standards LJWB uphold, and those standards are directly linked to the incredible efforts of each and every one of its volunteers. LJWB thanks all the volunteers for taking the time to share their skills, knowledge, and positive energy.

LJWB is incredibly proud to have such a dedicated team of volunteers on board, the judges noted in their report: “It is clear that volunteers are highly valued within the organisation and there is a recognition that volunteering benefits both the volunteer themselves, service users, and residents. There is a commitment to volunteers that is evident in the support offered, training, expenses, and voice and influence within the organisation.”

Tickets are available to purchase directly online, or you can call Shelley on 0113 203 4919.

Don’t

With Gary Don, your antiques expert and Auctioneer

Comic book collecting is a hobby that has been around for decades. Most of us can remember reading comics as children and they often shaped much of our early tastes in movies, TV, and books.

Comics can be a profitable investment these days. There are several important factors to consider in your collection, including the publishing companies, artists, key issues, and condition.

Marvel Comics is one of the most wellknown comic book companies and controls nearly 40% of the market. It is responsible for many iconic characters such as SpiderMan, the X-Men, and the Avengers. It is also known for its interconnected universe which allows characters from different series to interact with each other.

With Mark Manning, Managing Director of Manning Stainton

April’s been a real temperature check on where the housing market’s at, especially with regards to demand. Using TwentyEA, which looks at data from across the whole market, we can see that throughout the area covered by Manning Stainton, we’ve had 1,260 properties placed under offer in April which constitutes a 16% increase compared to this time last year. Compare

Comic Genius ANTIQUES

DC Comics is another big publisher. It created Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman and are known for darker, grittier stories, while Image Comics is a newer company founded in 1992, known for its creator-owned titles such as The Walking Dead and Saga.

If you do have a collection of comics, it is very important to preserve them well. They need to be kept away from direct sunlight, moisture, and humidity. Valuable comics can be sent away to be graded, which will give it significantly more value as it has been authenticated by an industry respected organisation. The comic will be encapsulated in a crystal clear folder which will better preserve it and help guard against counterfeiting and tampering. These containers make it easier to display the comic book and showcase the works of art they are. One drawback is that encapsulated books can’t be read! However, this process

does cost money and the comic’s expected value needs to be worth more than £200 before it makes sense to have it graded.

In a Comics and Comic Art auction held earlier this year in the USA, more than 5,500 bidders set a number of records thanks to scarce highest-graded examples of key titles. One of only two copies of The Amazing Spider-man, No. 1, graded Mint sold for £1.09 million. One of only two copies of Superman No.1, graded Very Fine sold for £1.85 million and a copy of Star Comics no.8 which featured the first appearance of Wonder Woman sold for £1.19 million.

So, check your cupboards and attic – you may have a secret gem!

Garydon.co.uk

Temperature’s Rising PROPERTY

that to the 7% increase in the number of properties coming to the market, coupled with Manning Stainton carrying out 20% more viewing this April compared to last, and we can start to understand that demand volumes across the market are rising.

Initially, this may seem a little surprising given the recent press coverage around rising mortgage rates and falling house prices, but there’s a little more to this than first appears. While it’s true some lenders have put their rates up, let’s look at the main reason behind this — the rising demand for mortgage lender services. Given the mass of activity across the market this year so far, mortgage providers are likely inundated with new mortgage applications. What’s the

easiest way to curve this significant demand? Put the prices up!

This, in our view, is exactly what’s been happening over the last few weeks. Back to house prices and despite recent price indexes suggesting falling house prices, our data is showing something quite different. Price Indexes are based on agreed sales from four or five months prior, so although a good barometer, they do have their flaws. We saw a 3.6% increase in the price of property for sales agreed in April compared to last. House prices are by no means booming, but there have been some pockets of improvement, and we expect more of the same over the coming months.

Manningstainton.co.uk

As we approach Shavuot, a celebration deeply rooted in tradition and dairy delights, it’s the perfect time to delve into the fascinating history of one of the world’s favourite desserts: ice cream...

Whether you enjoy it in a cone, a cup, or even sandwiched between two cookies, ice cream is a timeless delight that brings smiles to faces of all ages – it even has its own day of celebration with World Ice Cream Day taking place on 21st July!

With countless flavours to choose from, from the classic chocolate, strawberry and vanilla, to more exotic options such as coconut and mango and rose and pistachio, there’s something for everyone. But did you know that ice cream has a history as rich as its flavour and it spans the four corners of the globe, with our frozen friend known as gelato in Italy, kulfi in India, and mochi in Japan?

Ancient origins

The first known ice cream-like treat originated during China’s Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Emperors back then enjoyed frozen milk mixed with flour, camphor, and sometimes buffalo or goat’s milk. They froze these creamy concoctions in metal tubes, storing them in ice pools for a cool, refreshing treat.

As time went on, icy desserts evolved. During the Medieval era, Arabs enjoyed a precursor to ice cream called sherbet (sharbat in Arabic), a fruity delight flavoured with quince, pomegranate, or cherry. As ‘ice cream’ made its way to Europe, Italian chefs in the 16th century experimented with ingredients such as cream, sugar and fruit, with the resulting creations quickly becoming popular in royal courts and among the wealthy. Italian innovations paved the way for gelato, which soon spread across Europe, inspiring new flavours and creations.

Welcome Stateside

In the 18th century, ice cream crossed the Atlantic to America, where it became a household staple. The first American ice cream shop opened in New York City in 1744, offering classic flavours like strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate. From there, ice cream parlours popped up across the country, each with its own unique flavours and creations.

showcasing the endless possibilities of these basic ingredients. With classics like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry still topping the popularity polls, what new flavours can we expect this year? According to bidfood.co.uk, four exciting flavours are set to hit the shelves in 2024 and they sound delicious!

Cherry Cola Sorbet: A nostalgic nod to your favourite childhood sour sweets, this sorbet is a beautiful deep raspberry colour and tastes just like the sweet you remember.

Marshmallow Mudslide Ice Cream: A delicious chocolate ice cream with fluffy white and pink marshmallows and an Oreo crumb swirl.

Lemon Meringue Ice Cream: Perfect for summer, with ripples of lemon curd and chunks of crunchy meringue.

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream: A classic dessert turned into ice cream form, with a cheesecake flavour, strawberry ripple, and shortbread biscuit crumbs.

Leeds’ newest sweet spot

Variety and delight

Ice cream’s appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. Made from milk, cream, sugar, and sometimes egg yolks, it’s ability to take on a wide range of flavours and mix-ins has led to many variations, each satisfying different tastes and

Ice cream lovers in north Leeds have something to look forward to this year. Fryday’s, the popular fish and chip shop, is opening a new ice cream and dessert parlour at Moortown Corner called Sunday’s. With a focus on quality ingredients and delicious flavours, Sunday’s is sure to become a favourite destination for ice cream lovers in the area.

With Monika Volsing, Head of Private Client and Selma Rehman, Private Client Solicitor, at Winston Solicitors.

If the brighter days have got you thinking about life admin and, in particular, organising your finances now and in the future, you may wish to consider gifting, both during your lifetime and in your Will. If there is a chance that after you die, your estate will be liable to inheritance tax (IHT), lifetime gifting could reduce your estate and alleviate your IHT burden.

With Mark Grandfield, Chief Executive at Leeds Jewish Housing Association

If you’re looking for a new home, would you consider a housing association? Why not? Not all landlords are the same, 25 years in this business tells me that. The big difference I have seen is that housing associations don’t see their properties as commodities with which to make profit, (sure, they have to balance the books) we see them as your homes with which to build communities.

For example our housing association recently bought an empty house that was previously a private landlord let and in quite

PRIVATE LAW: WILLS, TRUSTS & PROBATE

Feeling Generous? The Benefits of Gifting

If you gift over £3,000 to someone and then live for over seven years, there will be no IHT liability on it, reducing your estate and its IHT bill. If you pass away within seven years of the gift, depending on how much it was and how long after you made it you died, there will be IHT to pay (on a sliding scale, i.e. the longer ago it was, the less IHT).

Outside of such larger sums, without it being added to the value of your estate, you can also gift:

• £3,000 per tax year, known as the annual exemption.

• £250 per person to any other people you have not already made gifts to.

• Wedding gifts of £1,000 per person, £5,000 to a child, or £2,500 to a (great) grandchild.

• From income, such as for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, as long as after making them, you can maintain your normal standard of living.

• Payments to help with another person’s living costs, such as an elderly or minor relative.

• To charities and political parties.

Gifts to charity in your Will are exempt from IHT and if you leave 10% of your estate to charity, your IHT rate is reduced (36%, as opposed to 40%).

So, what’s stopping you? Get giving! In the words of Isabel Allende: “We only have what we give.” To make the most of gifting, speak to a specialist solicitor to discuss Estate Planning and your Will. Winstonsolicitors.co.uk

Not for Profit HOUSING

a poor condition, we spent a considerable sum modernising it (putting central heating upstairs, putting a new bathroom and kitchen in, fencing in the garden, fixing the roof and decorating inside and out) then let it out to a family in need at two-thirds the rent of the previous private landlord. We support our tenants to sustain their tenancies, we absolutely do not serve no-fault evictions, our rents are linked to legislation, and we maintain our homes to a higher standard than private landlords. We wouldn’t do any of that if our homes were commodities with which to make profit.

We want to get to know all our tenants, to enable them to flourish, safe to put down roots in their forever homes, growing

neighbourhoods and communities as we go, that is how we measure success. I’m not saying this to criticise private landlords, there are some great ones out there, but I want to advertise housing associations (all of them not just ours) as a real option. Many of our current, and long term, tenants could tell you that.

We are also looking forward to hosting our annual multi-service Housing Shabbat on 20th July, we hold three different services, followed by a communal Kiddush and is an opportunity to demonstrate the communal inclusivity and diversity which has been at the heart of LJHA for the last 70 years.

Ljha.co.uk

Under the watchful eye of Director Joseph Murgatroyd, Kutchenhaus’ new location in Oakwood, Leeds has been trading for over two years and collecting great reviews from clients in the area.

With over 70 showrooms nationwide; its unique business model being able to supply direct from the factory ensures the top-quality furniture is at the best price. Kutchenhaus is a franchise owned by Nobilia – Europe’s largest kitchen manufacturer, family owned and with over 75 years of furniture making heritage.

Since graduating at University of Leeds, Joseph has worked within the kitchen industry, gaining experience and working with clients and installers to deliver their dream kitchens. After many years spanning various stores in Yorkshire including as showroom manager at a Harrogate based luxury kitchen specialist, Joseph started his own business partnering with Kutchenhaus.

“For me it’s an opportunity to provide a really market leading offering that combines service, quality and price,” he says. “The German product we supply is of far more robust quality

HausStyle

Kutchenhaus is a growing luxury kitchen brand in the UK with a reputation for high quality and great service.

than any of the UK brands, and with over 15 years of success in the industry I know how to manage the process and get the right products and design to suit my clients’ needs. Because I am part of the wider franchise which is owned by the manufacturer, I also benefit from a really good pricing structure that I can pass on to my clients.”

As part of this industry leading offering Kutchenhaus Leeds is taking things a step further – partnering with trusted lighting, radiator, flooring and furnishing suppliers to provide clients with a full project service. Offering a one stop shop for larger projects where clients can design and order everything in one coordinated design package – and even spread the cost with one of its credit options.

Joseph is looking forward to an exciting future in his North Leeds showroom: “Two years ago I took a huge step by starting out on my own in partnership with Kutchenhaus and the response and support from my clients has been fantastic. For me its about overdelivering, and ensuring they get more than they thought possible. Seeing the finished projects make the work worthwhile and I can’t wait to develop the business over the next 10 years.”

Uk.kutchenhaus.com

Juliana Manso

Our experience with Kutchenhaus Leeds was fantastic from start to finish. Unlike many other kitchen companies, Kutchenhaus provided us with a unique and tailored service from the very first telephone conversation, when we first reached out to Joseph, to when the kitchen was delivered and installed. The team of fitters were also excellent, equipped with the special touch that distinguishes the kitchens you can buy from Kutchenhaus. From delivery to installation, everything was perfectly coordinated and timed.

Rachel Leadbetter

We have recently had an extension including a new kitchen. We wanted a local showroom and were blown away with the kitchens on display and the extra touches, and so made an appointment to speak to Joseph. Joseph was able to design a kitchen for us straight off the build plan and after several meetings and visits we had a fantastic design that fit with our budget. His experience and knowledge saved us making expensive mistakes but also was able to design around our unique space with a bespoke walk in pantry and my dream breakfast cupboard.

We now have our dream kitchen and the service and the finish are worth every penny. And they offer interest free which allowed us to retain some cash for our budget and spread the cost.

Robin Greenwood

Kutchenhaus took care of our kitchen plans, pretty much from start to finish. A daunting prospect for someone like me, who’s never had the opportunity to design a new kitchen. Joseph was able to be flexible and accommodating changes, which has resulted in a fantastic new kitchen that really wows! And has loads of practical storage. The unitary and fixtures are terrific quality. A special mention too to James the fitter, who was brilliant too, really making sure the finish was spot on, leaving really happy customers.

Karen Lewis

From end to end, we had great service from at Kutchenhaus Leeds friendly, experienced, and passionate about what the do, they have wrapped great service around the design and delivery of outstanding kitchens! Communication was great, in and out of showroom, follow-ups were prompt and Joseph even came out for a site visit on a Sunday morning to help shape up the perfect kitchen for our renovated home.

Joseph and his partner have really strong experience in kitchen design which really shines through – and this is coupled with a real commitment to working with people to design and deliver their ideal kitchen, so five stars from us!

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

MP VISIT

B-ICC North West welcomed guests from across the north to hear politician and barrister Suella Braverman MP.

A fascinating afternoon event for over 150 at Manchester Hall with former home secretary Suella Braverman was hosted by B-ICC North West in May. Nigel Tobias, new Executive Director of B-ICC, welcomed guests including sponsor and Israel Bonds Head of International Sales and Operations Arnon Perlman. Arnon took to the floor first and described how the current conflict has been affecting the economy, and his take on the current landscape. Arnon also charted his career which started as a fledgling reporter, to working as a consul general for the Israeli Consulate in China and serving in the media division of Ariel Sharon’s government: “Israel Bonds is proud to be the sponsor of this event,” he said. “Israel is an amazing country, we have a genius innovation, and we are flourishing today, despite constant war. I am proud that has raised over $50 million for Israel over 73 years, but Israel’s needs all our support more than ever, and investment in our bonds, and we will continue to support the economy despite whatever challenges we face.”

Conservative MP Mrs Braverman, who is known for speaking out against antisemitism, began her talk on the situation in Israel, saying: “It’s vital that trade between UK and Israel continues to grow, I know the governments are working hard on this, Israel is powerhouse

of innovation, enterprise and technology, this is a challenging time for the country and the Jewish community, I’d like to reconfirm my support and the support of the government to Israel and for the community here in the UK.” Emotionally describing her recent visit to Israel, Mrs Braverman relived her journey seeing firsthand the Gaza area, and meeting IDF representatives, survivors and parents of hostages: “I was blown away by the resilience of the people, defiant to defeat evil. It was incredibly inspiring. I met people living in makeshift accommodation, their world turned upside down, and heard some tragic stories. I believe the NATO alliance must invest heavily

to combat the threats of hostile states.”

Turning to domestic matters, Mrs Braverman said: “I’ve been disappointed with the lack of policing at the hate marches in the UK. The community deserves a safe environment, and antisemitism, hatred and threats have been allowed to go unenforced. I want to apologise on behalf of the government. Antisemitism is racism. There is a solution, and the police should be confronting and arresting those causing incitement. Strong leadership and zero tolerance is required, the Jewish people have been attacked for so many years, but it has shown the resilience to get through and win, you will do so again.”

Journalist and broadcaster Angela Epstein then facilitated a question-and-answer session following a standing ovation to round off the event.

For membership details, visit Bicc-nw.org

ALL PHOTOS: MIKE POLOWAY

ARTIST’S IMPRESSION

Suzie Hamlin tells us about a recent exhibition she put on celebrating the work of Leeds born Jewish artist Philip Naviasky, who lived in her house before her.

Philip Naviasky was born in 1894 in Leeds to Polish-Jewish parents who fled after Russia’s invasion of Poland. He commenced his artistic journey at the Leeds School of Art before being accepted into the prestigious Royal Academy Schools at the remarkable age of 18, the youngest ever to do so up until that point, though not since. Notably, he received a Royal Exhibition award from the Board of Education for his three-year tenure at the Royal College of Art. Despite his time in London, Naviasky loved Leeds and returned to the city, where he remained until his death in 1983.

In 1996, Suzie Hamlin came to live in what was Naviasky’s home until his death, and with her husband and some other enthusiasts, decided to ensure the artist received the recognition he was due. Suzie has undertaken several methods to do this, most notably by putting on ten-day exhibition of Naviasky’s work at Left Bank gallery, which was a smashing success.

Suzie explained how she went about setting up the show and raising awareness: “We decided that because we’re all very artistic and love the fact that we live in this house, we would recognise this. Many years ago, we met Helen Frei. Her dad was Naviasky’s GP and she had loads of his paintings in the attic. I think he paid for some of his medical care in paintings. We’ve also bought some, the first two we bought for half price because we live in his house. And then my husband works for charity and one of his paintings came in, which has our address on the back, so we have that one. We also went on Antique’s Roadshow when it was at Roundhay last summer and publicised him through that.” Suzie’s work has born fruit and on 24th May a blue plaque was put up at the house to commemorate the artist.

Naviasky’s artistic prowess was evident in his extensive work throughout the landscapes of Yorkshire, and the many famous portraits he produced such as those of Lord Nuffield, Ramsey MacDonald, and Winston Churchill. However, it wasn’t only famous figures which captured the artist’s interest: “He was prolific. He would tend to mainly paint women and children, and he would stop people in the street and ask to paint them.”

Like many artists, Naviasky failed to achieve the fame he was due during his lifetime, and remains relatively unknown to this day,

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

even in Leeds: “He was known to have said that it was as hard as walking through a wall as it was to be an artist in Leeds, because Leeds doesn’t celebrate its artists.” Through her work in bringing Naviasky to public awareness, Suzie has hopefully proved this notion wrong.

Ceremony, gifts, what to wear, venues and suppliers!!

Oliver Cowan talks us through the ins and outs of his son Jack’s Bar Mitzvah as he took to the stage.

When Jack Cowan was called up at Etz Chaim Synagogue on 6th April it was the culmination of over a year’s worth of preparation. With a piece to learn, family to corral, and a big bash to celebrate, organising a Bar or Bat Mitzvah weekend is a lot of work! We spoke to Jack’s dad Oliver about what the experience was like for him: “My main job was that I taught Jack his piece for the synagogue, while Jack’s mum organised the party. It worked really nicely. I dealt with the Saturday and she dealt with the Sunday!”

Over the weekend, there are a lot of different aspects which need to come together for the event to go off without a hitch, as Southport FC fan and online bridge club owner Oliver explained: “If you were planning a normal party, once you find the venue, the party planner at the venue will help out with organising and catering. With a Bar Mitzvah, you’ve got to find your own kosher caterer, find a venue which will allow them to cater, and then because you’re not using a hotel usually, you have to sort the bar out and the entertainment.”

For Jack’s celebrations, the usual disco wasn’t an option, so the entertainment took on a fairground theme instead: “Jack has autism and ADHD. He doesn’t like loud noise and loud music, so that ruled out the idea of a disco. But he loves fairgrounds and carnivals, so Nikki, my ex-wife, did a fantastic job with that. She found a company to basically provide the stalls, so there was a tin can alley, a hook-a-duck etc.. And the food was tied in as well! Popcorn, candy floss and so on.”

It’s the ceremonial part of the weekend which effectively is the Bar Mitzvah, when a boy reaches the age of 13 and technically becomes a man in Jewish law – the party is a custom which has grown and is now almost as important. For the family both were a product of many months work: “The planning of the weekend itself was hard because there were a lot of uncertainties. I’d been teaching Jack for around 18 months, and I think the actual party side of it, Nikki was working on for about eight or nine months.”

As Jack took on the ceremonial reciting of part of the Torah, known as the week’s “Sedre” Oliver took great pleasure of being on the “bimah”, or platform with him: “The teaching was really rewarding and it meant that I could be with him in the synagogue when he was called up, and I knew what he was doing. Equally, he was comfy and confident with me being there which was nice. One of his issues – because of his ADHD – is that most boys, when they have a Bar Mitzvah lesson, will go for 45 minutes or an hour. With Jack we tended to do seven to 10 minutes then he was off and he’d come back a bit later and do another few minutes. So, it was hard work, but on the day, it was extremely rewarding to watch him do what he did. It was nice to share that. Overall, this was the highlight for me of an amazing weekend, I’m sure Jack’s was to open all his presents!

JACK COWAN

THE COWAN FAMILY (OLIVER FAR RIGHT)

Rabbi Ozer and Leah Moszkowski of Etz Chaim Synagogue share their thoughts on the Bar and Bat Mitzvah, coming of age.

A tender young girl or boy, barely scraping adolescence, suddenly thrust into an adult world, with the full weight of decision resting squarely on their narrow shoulders. This sounds archaic, barbaric even. Horridly reminiscent of deadly dark mines or scrabbling under toothed machines at cotton mills.

Is that why we feel compelled to commandeer expansive halls, energetic DJs, enough disco lights to bring the roof down, and all the cake our town can bake, to drown out the terrible fate of our child’s new reality?

Or is it actually the most forward, intuitive, eternally understanding recognition of what our dear preteens need more than anything else, as they pass the start line on the marathon called life? For it is not actually a burden we are strapping to their young shoulders, but a secret jetpack for success.

Because it is G-D telling your child, I believe in you. I trust you. I know you can listen to that quiet voice at the back of your mind saying, don’t laugh when you see someone fall, don’t talk about your friend behind their back, don’t share that video she begged you not to show anyone. I believe in you! You are no longer a small child who needs to be told not to eat like that, sit like that, talk like that. You are an adult now. You have the biggest brightest future! I believe in you. I trust you. I know you have a strong inner moral compass that you can learn to rely on to make decisions.

After all, the biggest gift you can give your child is teaching them the power of self-control. We do not have to be slaves to our impulses. We do not have to say the nasty thing, or eat the oily thing, or keep scrolling on the fun time-wasting thing, or buy the sparkly thing.

A child with self-control is an empowered child. A child who can accept a ‘no’ is an empowered child. How do we achieve this? By believing in our children. By becoming their loudest cheerleaders. By giving them responsibilities (age appropriate of course). By treating them like fledgling adults. Babied kids will act like babies, ‘adulted’ kids will act like adults. It’s the language we use around them, the responsibilities we give them. We are handcrafting their self-esteem, day by day, stitch by stitch.

Trust your children. They want to learn, they want to become solid, stable, mindful, deeply contented little beings. Let’s help them get there.

Yes, the power of decision is a big responsibility, but it’s the biggest gift we can give our kids. This therefore follows why it is the time we enrol our precious little thinkers into B’nei Mitzvah learning groups. They need knowledge of their heritage in order to make good Jewish decisions. The eternal wisdom rings so true. For morality, for interpersonal relationships, for truth, for direction.

But the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong endeavour. Perhaps post Bat and Bar Mitzvah groups are where it’s really at?

The world nowadays asks so much of our kids. Cyber bullying- a monster we couldn’t concoct in our darkest nightmares, antisemitism in their supposed safe spaces, exposure to visceral global horror. We as parents and communities need to run to keep up so that we can sprint alongside our precious children and offer them emotional and spiritual support, nourishment, guidance, and validation as they battle the marathon that is life as a modern teen.

Dressed to Impress

Take a look at our top Bar & Bat Mitzvah fashion picks for the whole family.

For The Stars Of The Show

Four-piece suit grey | Monsoon | £75

This four-piece suit (which can also be worn as just the blazer and trousers) gives a smart and clean cut look on your special day. The grey is slightly more casual and modern than your usual black, leading well into party time with your friends and family. Pair with a white or blue shirt underneath to compliment its crisp tailored lines.

Monsoon.co.uk

Satin Abigail one-shoulder dress | Monsoon | £45

This party dress has a beautiful and formal satin finish with pops of fun and modern details such as sequins and an asymmetrical neckline. Perfect for looking the part on the big day, the full skirt makes this a perfect dancefloor piece. Pair with a pair of matching or silver pumps to add some sparkle to your outfit!

Johnlewis.com

For Family And Guests

Adrianna Papell natural floral bead mermaid dress | Lyst | £349

This boldly embellished floral dress is a glamourous party dress perfect for special occasions. With a mermaid shape and neutral pink fabric, the beaded and sequined 3D florals really pop on this dress. Partially lined with shoulder length sleeves on top, this a great statement piece. Pair with subtle floral jewellery and some pink or gold heels to complete the look.

Lyst.co.uk

Sunset ombre midi dress | Oliver Bonas | £80

This elegant midi dress is great for casual leaning formal occasions. Printed with a sunset inspired colouring, this brushstroke pattern has graceful watercolour blending to each colour. Its tiered skirt adds a formal flare to the casual button up style and can easily be paired with statement drop earrings, navy heels, and a clutch for a seamless day to night look.

Oliverbonas.com

Cambridge linen regular fit SB2 notch | John Lewis | £150

Cambridge linen regular fit trouser | John Lewis | £70

Looking for something smart but a little different from your usual dark suit colours? Why not opt for this smoky brown shade to change up your formalwear wardrobe. This blazer has a notch lapel with flap pockets and the matching trousers are in a straight leg cut. Pair with a light blue shirt for a lifted look or a navy blue for a darker more sophisticated look. Johnlewis.com

One of Yor kshire’s Most Iconic Celebr ation Venues

Mazel Tov on this special milestone in your child’s life! Celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah is indeed a cherished

perfect setting and highest quality of ser vice

Our award-winning and highly versatile venue , Pavilions of Harrogate , is set in more than 250 acres of lawns and woodlands on the iconic Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate overlooking the beautiful Crimple Valley It is an idyllic space to

Our spacious Wharfe and Aire Rooms are located in the nor th wing and are well-matched for hosting your own bespoke celebrations. Both rooms o er easy access to well-manicured private lawns, where the open space of the Showground ser ves as a glorious backdrop so that you can make the most of better

Each of these rooms has a private entrance and they are ser viced by their own fully equipped kitchen, providing ideal facilities for all of your caterers’ requirements.We have a long-standing relationship with many local suppliers and Kosher caterers who have been involved in many Jewish celebrations at Pavilions of Harrogate , and we would be ver y happy to make recommendations, should this be useful to you.

Arriving for your celebrations is completely hassle-free You and to 500 cars as well as 4 EV charging points Pavilions of Harrogate links, a shor t drive from the A1 and the wider motorway network. We invite you to book a viewing today and discover how Pavilions of Harrogate can be the perfect match for this special day so that your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah is ever ything it is supposed to be and so much more

We have a wealth of experience in hosting a full range of family celebrations and with a long-standing reputation for providing a enjoy your family’s special day, knowing that you are in great hands.

When you book your celebration at Pavilions of Harrogate , you are contributing to a unique charity at the hear t of helping to develop an environment where farming, food, and the countr yside thrives and grows.

Event Planner Juliet Shenderey of Shenderey Events offers some tops tips on planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration.

Your Bar or Bat Mitzvah is a significant moment in your life, and you deserve to celebrate it as such. It’s a real time for families to come together, so you want to honour it in style. To make the coming-of-age event memorable and meaningful, you need to book the right entertainment for the day. After all, an entertainer or performer needs to do just that: put on a show for fun and enjoyment, and to mark your special occasion with something that puts a smile on your guests’ faces. But with so many types of entertainers, styles of performer, and different budgets to consider, where do you start?

Thanks to our decades’ organising Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations, at Shenderey Events we’ve gathered tips and tricks for booking entertainment that’s memorable for all the right reasons.

Understand your audience

The guests at your Bar or Bat Mitzvah are, naturally, going to range quite widely in age. So, it’s key to find entertainment that suits both your elderly relatives and the younger generation. Consider the kind of entertainment that works for both age groups, perhaps mixing up ideas and types of entertainment to make sure there’s something for everyone.

Think traditional musicians and singers, followed by a magician and circus performer! Of course, if you’re not sure, ask family and friends what they would enjoy. Ultimately, you want all your guests to have a great time, so find out what kind of entertainment suits them.

Think about your theme

A beautifully branded event needs the right entertainment to match. So, think carefully about whether your choice of performer matches the mood. An elegant, beautiful Oscar-style luxe celebration suits a classical musician to set the

tone, but on the other hand, a fun, sportsthemed style can accommodate some louder, more lively showcase entertainment. It’s all part of a great guest experience where the event meets, then exceeds, expectations – creating the right atmosphere from invitation to entertainer.

Manage your budgets

You may have found your dream band, but blowing the budget on paying for them is only going to cause worry and stress. Perhaps there’s another singer you can book who’ll get the party started in the same way? Or, if your heart’s set on a particular entertainer, look at where else you can make savings in order to spend on the things that really matter to you. Then, you’ll enjoy your day even more without worrying about overspending.

Ask for advice

With such a wide variety of entertainment options to choose from, it can be tricky to know where to start. You can search endless Google reviews, hunt down social media recommendations or even gather top tips from family and friends. But it’s here where the help of an expert really pays.

At Shenderey Events, we’ve planned and hosted a huge range of Bar and Bat Mitzvahs for clients across the country. Not only does that mean we know just what works for every theme and style of event, we’re armed with great connections and contacts so we can introduce ideas you may not have considered. Then, with us on side on the day, you can sit back and enjoy the entertainment worry-free. Expert entertainment advice is just one of the many reasons hiring an event planner perfectly shapes your celebration in style, without stress.

Bar None

Harrogate Suit Hire

Harrogate Suit Hire is a family-run business committed to enhancing the charm and ease of its clients’ special days or unique event, offering bespoke suit hire for the Bar Mitzvah boy and the whole family!

The company offers a personalised service wherein measurements are taken during the scheduled appointment using its tailoring service, ensuring that the suit fits flawlessly for the special occasion. In addition to this, the business can offer a next day delivery service, subject to timeframe, for those on a quick turnaround.

A complimentary final fitting is provided to ensure the suit achieves a perfect fit. A diverse selection of suits are available for perusal and if you’re looking for the perfect suit for a big event, you should contact the business to schedule a personalised appointment.

Planning ahead is a must as Harrogate Suit Hire is by appointment only, open seven days a week and evenings. Book your appointment now and explore the range of competitively priced and stylish suits available.

Harrogatesuithire.com

We shine a spotlight on some extra special businesses which can make your Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration one to remember.

Engine Shed

Set in a superbly renovated Grade II listed building, The Engine Shed is a truly unique venue providing a home to a range of events and celebrations, and perfect for the many Bar and Bat Mitzvah parties it has hosted.

Both the stylish main room and mezzanine levels can fit 120 guests to join in the celebrations, boasting authentic high ceilings, wooden beams, and exposed brickwork.

The Engine Shed is an award-winning venue, and it’s no wonder with the incredible facilities available within the space, including two licenced bars and dance floors, a DJ booth, hydraulic stage, and top of the line AV. Free parking is also available.

Engineshedwetherby.co.uk

Pretty Booth

Rediscover what a photo booth can be with Pretty Booth! A fantastic way to make memories of your special day, this unique product brings vintage glamour to the traditional photo booth set-up, allowing you to capture keepsakes with a touch of class.

Unlike enclosed booths and mirror booths

which can only shoot a limited number of people at a time, Pretty Booth’s revolutionary tower booth allows you to get up to 15 people in each snap. Not only that, but much like with a professional photographer, each photo will be processed and touched up to ensure they’re looking their best before you download from the online gallery.

Based in North Leeds, Pretty Booth serves the entirety of Yorkshire and Lancashire. The team has a fully customer focussed approach and is committed to ensuring each hire is exactly as you want it to be, with a choice of fabulous backdrops, props, and print personalisation.

Prettybooth.co.uk

UHC also hosted Sophia Goldstone’s Bat

on 2nd September 2023.

Its our Bar & Bat Mitzvah special, so we take a look at some of the pics from the last 12 months.

Also at UHC, Eva Glynn was called up on 10th June 2023.

Jack Jacobs celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at UHC.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: RUTHLESS

Mitzvah

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Josh Wisnia’s party had a glowing speech from the Bar Mitzvah boy himself.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Isaac Harvey Chaim before

Called up at BHH was Oliver Cohen.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Jack Daly, son of JLife’s optical columnist James also had his Bar Mitzvah

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Isaac Frieze was called up at UHC and celebrated at a garden party complete with face paint!

PHOTO: HEATHER HOLDEN

Sophia Mimi Wilder was called up at UHC Synagogue, with a bonfire themed party to follow!

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Harvey was called up at Etz before his party at The Hovels.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Isaac Walters and Joseph Cordiner had a joint Bar Mitzvah celebration.

PHOTO: SIMON MARCUS FROM ADDICTIVE MEDIA

Jos Graham had his Bar Mitzvah at BHH with Rabbi Jason Kleinman.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

Louis Baker celebrated at Moor Allerton Golf Club with extended family and friends.

Monty Daly-Smith was called up at UHC before celebrating with a big bash at Fearns, Leeds Dock.

BUSINESS NEWS

Winston’s Sell-Out Quiz Donation

Following another hugely successful Annual Quiz night, Winston Solicitors were once again delighted to present a cheque to Leeds Mencap. The quiz evening was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and some healthy competition as the teams battled it out to be crowned quiz champions. With thanks to the generosity of participants and other businesses, £3,000 was raised for Leeds Mencap. The independent, Leeds charity provides support to those with learning disabilities, giving much needed advice and long-term help to individuals and their families.

AI Tech Receives Israeli Investment

Greeneye Technology, the pioneer of AI-enabled precision spraying technology that is proven to reduce herbicide use in farming by an average of 88%, today announces the completion of a $20 million funding round led by Israeli investment company Deep Insight.

Barak Ben Eliezer, Managing Partner at Deep Insight, comments:

“Our mission is to invest in disruptive technologies and ambitious leadership teams that have the potential to solve the world’s biggest challenges, and Greeneye fits squarely into that category.

“Building safe and resilient food systems that are capable of feeding a growing global population is of the utmost importance, and it starts by equipping farmers with the tools they need to transition to new practices. Greeneye has succeeded by bringing to market a viable precision spraying solution that is easy and affordable for farmers to implement into their existing operations. From a strategic point of view, Greeneye has also proven that it has a very clear understanding to drive mass adoption of its technology, we are proud to invest in Greeneye Technology and to be part of its exciting journey.”

Leeds Law Firm Acquired

A renowned Yorkshire law firm has been acquired in a deal creating a 60 plus-strong workforce and paving the way for future expansion and job creation. Castle-Donnington-based WLR Law has purchased commercial, media, and sports law expert Front Row Legal – based on Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds – for an undisclosed fee.

Over the years, Front Row Legal has become a leading player on the Leeds business scene – representing many SMEs and family-owned businesses.

Claire Dibb, WLR group CFO, is also a well-known figure in the regional legal market and has worked with several legal firms in Yorkshire and across the UK, providing commercial financial management & CFO leadership to both SME & corporate clients. Claire will be part of the Senior Management Team, to help drive future growth.

Richard Cramer, FRL Managing Director, comments: “This seamless integration of our expertise and resources is a remarkable opportunity to elevate our client offerings and tap into WLR Law’s vast resources.

“I’m thrilled to embark on this journey which will set new benchmarks for legal services in our focused sectors – further refining our approach to meet the evolving needs of our clients with even greater precision and care.”

Richard adds: “The new combined workforce will be around 60 – greatly enhancing the scope of services we can offer. We’re always looking to recruit quality professionals, and I’m confident this acquisition is just the start of an ongoing expansion plan to create additional jobs in the coming years.”

Martin Collins, WLR Law Principal MD and Board Director, states: “This merger is a celebration of shared values and our unwavering commitment to client success.

“Together we’re perfectly poised to drive further innovation in the way legal advice is delivered, improving the impact and accessibility for our clients.”

Israeli Tech Launches in Europe

Insightec, a global healthcare company dedicated to using acoustic energy to transform patient care has announced the CE approval and European launch of Exablate Prime, a significant enhancement to the Exablate Neuro platform. Based on customer input and feedback, Exablate Prime is the culmination of over 10 years of significant research and development designed to increase precision, efficiency, and experience of the surgeon – and the patient.

Like its predecessor, Exablate Prime enables incisionless neurosurgery as an outpatient procedure to provide relief to people living with movement disorders, such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. New improvements include an enriched user interface and enhancements to optimize productivity.

“Our unwavering commitment to enhancing patient care through innovative technology led us to develop Exablate Prime,” said Maurice R. Ferre, M.D., CEO and Chairman of the Board of Insightec. “Although Exablate Neuro has revolutionized the field of neurosurgery, Exablate Prime takes it to entirely new levels, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. We couldn’t be more proud of the end result, the future of incisionless neurosurgery.”

“With European countries supporting focused ultrasound as a viable treatment option for essential tremor, Exablate Prime is truly exciting,” commented Giuseppe Carbone, Vice President of Insightec Europe. “We are confident it will make even more of a positive impact to empower Europeans living with essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease – as well as their physicians.”

New Cyber Security Ops Centre in Leeds

BlueVoyant, a cyber security company announced the successful opening of its new Security Operations Centre (SOC) and Experience Centre in Leeds city centre. The new centre is part of BlueVoyant’s multi-million-pound investment in the UK since 2017.

The new office highlights the evolution of security operations. No longer is it sufficient to have a traditional SOC with legacy technology and manual processes. Instead, clients are looking for next-generation managed security that takes a full-spectrum look at their attack surfaces and uses Machine Learning (ML) to quickly find and mitigate the most critical threats.

Leeds has been named the fastest growing digital economy by Lloyds Bank, as well as a number of trade and local publications, which inspired BlueVoyant to choose the city for its new SOC and Experience Centre. The company is hiring from the diverse local tech talent, with nearly 20 roles to be filled in the first instance.

“BlueVoyant is excited to add its name to the list of tech companies in Northern England that are pushing the boundaries of innovation,” said Robert Hannigan, BlueVoyant’s head of international business and former director of GCHQ.

Mobile Game Business Teams Up with Dr. Phil

Supertreat Gmbh, a Playtika studio and the powerhouse behind fanfavorite mobile game Solitaire Grand Harvest, the highest grossing Solitaire game in the U.S, has announced a first-of-its kind, fullyintegrated partnership with Dr. Phil McGraw and his new venture, Merit Street Media’s TV network. Recognising the need for accessible and enjoyable stress relief solutions, Dr. Phil has endorsed the age-old classic game of solitaire as a good way to relax.

Dr. Phil said: “In the midst of our fast-paced lives, I recognize the need for moments of entertainment and self-indulgence. For me, diving into Solitaire Grand Harvest offers a blissful escape from the daily grind, allowing me to revel in pure fun. It’s a pleasure to collaborate once more with Playtika, this time on Merit Street, as we introduce these cherished games to fresh audiences. Brace yourselves for a blast of entertainment while you kick back and recharge.”

PERFECT PARTNERS

We highlight some of the fantastic partners which support UK

Israel Business.

Manning Stainton

Manning Stainton has been successfully helping people move for over 20 years and is part of the growing Northern Estate Agencies Group, which incorporates the brands of Ryder & Dutton and Mortimers. Operating from over 40 branches across the north of England. The network also includes the Fine & Country and Auction House brands, together with specialist departments including Mortgages, Conveyancing, New Homes, and Surveys, all ready to help its customers move.

Manningstainton.co.uk

Boost Drinks

Boost Drinks is a Leeds-based functional drinks brand founded by CEO Simon Gray in 2001. Since the launch Boost Drinks ’s purpose has been to Energise Everybody in Everyway, and turns over £70 million. Within independent retailing, Boost Drinks is the third largest stimulation energy brand, the second largest sport drinks brand and the third largest iced coffee brand. The business has recently been included in the Sunday Times Top 100 Places to Work. In December 2022, Boost was acquired by AG Barr PLC the founders of Irn Bru.

Boostdrinks.com

YABA

Established seven years ago, the Yorkshire Asian Business Association (YABA) serves as a pivotal platform. It provides a voice for the Yorkshire Asian business community on regional, national, and international level.

YABA looks to strengthen and build new connections between the Asian and Non-Asian business community with around 4500 members and over 70 corporate partners supporting this much needed initiative.

Esteemed Founder Sharon Jandu OBE and the distinguished Yorkshire Asian Business Association Advisory Board have extensive experience in both private and third sector business. This experience allows YABA to remain dedicated to advancing business interests across Yorkshire and its broader horizons.

Yabauk.com

The One Solution

Winner of Telecommunications Specialist of the Year, 2022/23!

The One Solution provides bespoke telecoms and IoT solutions to businesses across the UK and beyond, working with clients and partners as far afield as Canada and Israel. The company is known for its outstanding customer service, flexible business packages and innovative approach. With more than 25 years’ in the industry, its MD, Marshall Frieze, is known as an expert in the field and continues to grow the business, fostering both established and new relationships across the globe. The One Solution is the first choice for telecoms and IoT that truly help businesses to thrive.

Theonesolution.co.uk

Mitchell Wealth Management

Mitchell Wealth Management Ltd aims to help clients build and protect their savings and investments tax efficiently. This awardwinning investment approach includes advising and guiding clients in a clear and understandable way to help them achieve their financial goals and aspirations, whatever their circumstances.

The firm offers help and advice on retirement planning, passing on assets tax efficiently to the next generation, investing personal or business money and a full range of financial services solutions.

Mitchellwm.co.uk

Tax Specialist Helen Booth from Leon & Co offers advice on trading income and the upcoming MTD basis period reform.

Digital Takeover TAX TIPS

Our world today is undeniably digital, and we live in an era known as the digital age. Over the years, we have seen significant changes in how we live, work, and interact with world. Embracing the digital shift, HMRC have implemented an online Tax Administration strategy known as Making Tax Digital.

So, what is Making Tax Digital (MTD)?

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is HMRC’s plan to digitise the tax system for VAT, Income Tax Self-Assessment and Corporation Tax for businesses and individuals. MTD aims to make tax returns simpler and more efficient for everyone.

HMRC’s MTD’s programme is being phased in over a number of years. VAT was the first element of the programme to have been rolled out in April 2019. The next MTD

Iphase to be set in motion is Income Tax.

Let’s look on how and when MTD will be rolled out (see above*)…

n readiness for the MTD Income Tax April 2026 roll out, HMRC have changed the rules of basis periods. These changes have come into force from 6th April 2023.

Firstly, what is basis period?

A basis period is the time interval for which you are charged tax in a particular year.

So, what is basis period reform and which businesses are affected by this?

Basis period reform means that all selfemployed individuals and partnerships will have to report their business tax information

to HMRC on a tax year basis, regardless of their accounting period. It is important to note that limited companies are not impacted by the reform.

Depending on when your account year end falls within the tax year, it will ultimately determine if and how your profits are declared for MTD purposes. The table below summarises how your accounts year end will impact you going forward.

If MTD has left you feeling queasy, get in touch with Leon and Company Accountants. We will guide you through the financial maze…from chaos to clarity, that’s our speciality.

What might hold up UK rate cuts this summer?

Alan Kinnaird, Business Development Manager at Walker Crips Investment Management comments that the G7 economies will likely follow suit in Switzerland’s rate cut decision if inflation doesn’t spike off the back of oil price increases. Plus, two investment picks worth watching.

“The last few weeks have been somewhat confusing for investors following the Swiss National Bank’s unexpected decision to cut its base rate from 1.75% to 1.50%. The rate cut received a lot of attention in Europe as a consensus emerged among commentators that the Swiss may have fired the starting gun on interest rate cuts.

“Many are now hoping there will be rate cuts across the US, Europe and the UK, with some starting possibly in June of this year. It hasn’t just been the Swiss cutting interest rates early either. There were five official interest rate cuts across emerging markets in March of this year.

higher and creating a knock-on effect.

“One of the key factors for the Fed and the BoE will be whether they can afford to cut rates this summer, given the simmering tensions in the Middle East. The oil price will be the deciding factor as any sustained rise can quickly lead to higher inflation across all product categories.

Source: Trading economics, 05/04/2024

“In the current environment, there are two investment picks worth considering. The first is UK Treasury 0.125% 30/01/2026; this UK Government-backed bond can be bought below its redemption value of £100 (currently £92.98) and held to redemption at £100 in around 18 months. The resulting capital gain of £7.02 is free of capital gains tax for an individual and these offer a relatively low risk when compared to equities.

“While inflation is clearly on a downward trend within the G7, the Federal Reserve and Bank of England have clearly indicated that rates will only be cut if the economic data supports such a move. The current political risk in the Middle East could easily spill over again into major trading routes including the Red Sea, sending oil prices

“Individuals that pay income tax at the ‘higher rate’ and/or ‘additional higher rate’ on their income can still generate a relatively high tax-free return from short-dated UK Government Bonds (Gilts). This is simply due to the fact certain UK Gilts can be bought below their redemption value of £100 and, when held to redemption, there is a tax-free capital gain available for an individual.

“The other investment is SPDR S&P Dividend Aristocrats ETF, currently valued at $128.48 – this tracks a yield-weighted index of dividend-paying companies from the S&P 500 Composite Index, which have increased dividends for at least twenty consecutive years. When looking at the performance of this ETF, it is important to do so on a total return basis (income and capital growth). The dividend element is an important part of its overall return strategy.

If you would like more information or a brochure

, please contact me on the details below

“While some of the constituents are fairly mature US companies, the fact that each company has paid a rising dividend for twenty-plus years certainly results in an appealing basket of shares.”

Walker Crips Investment Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The value of your investment can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invested. The rates of return quoted are for illustrative purposes only and not guaranteed and are based on current legislation and rates of taxation.

Frei Up

The UK Israel Business (North East) (UKIB) April meeting took place at the First Direct Arena,

where Matt Frei, Europe Editor and Presenter at Channel 4, was in conversation with Edward Ziff.

Fresh off a BAFTA nomination for his coverage in Israel, Matt Frei, Channel 4’s German born Editor and Presenter, recounted his own history with the country to a packed audience: “I lived in Israel for a year and I’ve been back a lot. I really like it and I’m heartbroken by what’s been going on.”

Matt’s career has taken him around the world, with one or two high profile interviewees, especially while being the stations Washington D.C. correspondent: “Obama was super impressive because he’s slick and cool, but you know he’s going to give you five minutes of his time and then it’s over. Clinton was more engaging. He has this habit – which got him into some trouble – he’s very physical. He’s squeezing you and literally moving closer and closer. He’s very tall and charismatic, and super clever. If you ask him about stuff he doesn’t want you to ask about becomes an absolute monster. George W. Bush was the most engaging, I interviewed him in the White House. He was in his final year in office, and he was so toxic by that stage that no one wanted to be anywhere near him.

“The interview itself was weird. It was 15 minutes long and they’re quite precise. There was a guy with big cards counting down time, and we got to 4 minutes past how long it should have been and they were signalling me to stop. We finished the interview and I assumed we would all be thrown out. I asked to take photos and Bush replied: ‘Sure, I got all the time in the world.’ He ended up in the Oval Office and we were shooting the breeze.

I asked him about all kinds of things. He was very widely read.”

The conversation then turned to Matt’s time covering the war in Israel: “Arriving in Jerusalem on 8th October was very eerie. Everything had shut down, and there were still sirens all the time. It felt completely empty and fearful. The hotels were packed because October is the main tourist season and within four days they had emptied. We ended up in the King David Hotel and the presidential suite was the room next to mine. I was out on the balcony doing stretches one morning – I was in my boxer shorts – and I heard a rustling coming from the between me and the next

Arriving in Jerusalem on 8th October was very eerie. Everything had shut down, and there were still sirens all the time.

room. I thought it was strange because the room should have been empty, so I thought I should have a look. I peered over and there was our Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak!. But it’s a serious warzone, and we’ve seen some harrowing scenes, finding a resolution to it all is very difficult with the various stakeholders in the region. Hopefully things can calm down quickly.”

Matt then took some questions from the floor, one of which was: “Is anyone in control of what’s going on in Israel?” “The Israeli’s are very much in control of what’s going on,” Matt answered. “Totally. It’s a democracy, right? So there are a lot of people who really dislike Bibi Netanyahu. Families who have loved ones taken hostage are really upset with him. The economy is now coming back again, but it collapsed for a period. They had more reservists sign up than they needed. On the Palestinian side it’s much more fragmented. In the West Bank, the Palestinian Authority which is in charge was very little in evidence in terms of what they were doing with their own population.”

In answering this question Matt was keen to highlight the terrible toll the war is exacting: “We were heading back from filming in a village where the Palestinians had been told to clear out within 24 hours. It’s all about getting footholds in the settlements. We came across a little demonstration, kids throwing rocks, but the soldiers were quite far away. There was one guy who was left behind, who had learning difficulties. There’s CCTV footage of him lobbing a stone underarm, and the soldier gets down on his knees, puts a bullet in his neck, and kills him.”

For more information about UKIB, email jane.clynes@ukisraelbusiness.co.uk

PHOTO: DAVID COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

MATT FRIE (CENTRE) WITH UK ISRAEL PARTNERS

PHOTO: DAVID COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

FAMILY VALUES

Philanthropist and CEO of Skopes Menswear, Simon Cope, was the special guest at the latest UK Israel Breakfast meeting at MAZC Centre.

Members of UK Israel Business (North East) (UKIB) heard tips from one of the UK’s leading retailers first hand during a networking breakfast. Simon Cope, CEO of Skopes, took part in a ‘fireside chat’ interview hosted by Marshall Frieze, owner of telecommunications company The One Solution, at the event at the MAZC Centre, which was attended by 65 members and guests.

Colin Glass welcomed partners and guests to the meeting, including meeting sponsor Suzanne Treen, Legal Director of Clarion, who opened the meeting, before introducing guest speaker Simon Cope, saying: “We’ve always been extremely impressed with Simon’s commitment to, and support for, our local community especially charities, and we’re delighted he could visit us and share some extremely valuable business insights and advice.” After stories about his early years – which included time spent living in Israel – and the past 30 years involved with

the business, the event opened up to questions from the floor which mainly focused on advice for existing or start-up businesses. Simon began by discussing his challenges during education when harnessing his dyslexia had been one of his biggest challenges: “School was difficult. I just needed to get through, which was hard. I joined a Judo team which really helped focus my mind.”

At 18, Simon went to Israel, but came back in his early 20s, when his brother Jamie sadly died,

and ended up working in the family business. He went on to discuss the importance of having a loyal and talented team around him, and looking after his staff, the challenges brought by COVID-19 and a virus attack demanding a £500,000 ransom. “During the pandemic, we were weeks away from closing the doors, but thanks to HSBC and some arrangements with supplier who we’d spent years building relationships with, we were able to continue giving and supporting our charities, made no redundancies, and despite horrendous trading challenges, we came out stronger. I actually get a bigger buzz from being able to give back than anything else. It’s the team around me that are critical, to help me develop strategy, and to implement it. Profitability came back post pandemic better than ever, we gave bonuses to staff to help with cost of living, and to keep the workforce happy, thankfully we have a very low staff turnover.”

Simon then went on to discuss his environmental compass. In partnership with Lyfcycle, through its dedicated process in Bangladesh, Skopes has produced a range of eco-suits, made from recycled plastic. In each suit, 45 recycled plastic bottles will be used: “Sustainability is so important to us as a business, although I do get frustrated with the landscape worldwide, the UK only accounts for 1% of worldwide emissions, other powerhouse countries need to improve.”

Asked about future plans, he said: “With regard to the future, I still love working, I can try carry on for ever, although I’ve had some medical issues, I’m not sure my family want to take over so we may end up selling. But if we do it will be in the right way to the right people, we’ve earmarked 10% of the profits to the staff to thank them for their hard work over the years.”

Family is at the heart of Skopes, one of the UK’s leading and longest-established menswear brands, recently celebrated its 75th anniversary. The brand is headquartered in Leeds and alongside its e-commerce retail offering, has 20 traditional bricks-and-mortar shops across the UK, with a flagship store in Westfield London.

Founded by Sydney Cope, the company sourced the finest fabrics from Huddersfield and Bradford mills, and his skilled team crafted top-quality tailored trousers. These garments were supplied to leading men’s fashion retailers and department stores of that era. Sydney’s son Geoffrey took over and made a significant contribution by introducing readily available collections. Simon was in his early twenties when he took the helm of the business and has grown the company exponentially in that time, taking annual revenue from £1.5 million to £34 million with 260 staff employed today. He has ambitious growth plans for Skopes – aiming to increase revenue to £55 million in the next three years, with more store openings planned, but has always maintained the family values of fairness and respect. He has continued his commitment to the environment and supporting local charities such as Leeds Jewish Welfare Board, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, St Gemma’s, PhysCap and Homeless Street Angels. Simon is married to Natasha, he has one son, Harley, and a stepdaughter Olivia, five dogs and eight horses.

COLIN GLASS WITH PARTNERS OF UK ISRAEL BUSINESS AND SIMON COPE

SIMON (LEFT) AND MARSHALL

Hi Gadi, welcome to the UK! You’ve had an impressive career so far, tell us about your highlights?

Throughout my career, I was fortunate enough to contribute to the wellbeing and security of our people through various positions. From serving as a legal advisor in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, continuing with advising the defence establishment on strategic matters, and until January 2023, as director of the national public diplomacy unit in the prime minister’s office, overseeing and coordinating Israel’s spokesmanship regarding all its target audiences. Lately, I have published my debut book, “11 Days in Gaza”, which showcases my team’s experience in Operation Cast Lead (2009). I’m a big believer in education, so while doing that, I was lucky to pursue three law degrees from Tel Aviv University and NYU Law. More importantly, it is the personal peaks that matter the most. Two years ago, I became a father, which is pure joy. Currently I’m providing commentaries on Relevant channel in Israel, and in international outlets, regarding Israel’s challenges.

You have worked at the Israeli MFA advising on the Israel-Palestinian conflict, tell us how you’ve been involved, and your thoughts and hopes for a resolution pathway?

While in the foreign ministry, I got a frontrow seat to the art of diplomacy. Back then, I accompanied diplomats throughout various engagements, providing legal analysis regarding some of the most complex legal and political challenges Israel faces and partook in cardinal decision-making processes. I have learned two main things during that time. The first is that the pathway to a resolution is highly complicated, primarily because the other side simply refuses to acknowledge the Jewish component in Israel’s identity. One must add the multiple security interests that must

Legal Eagle

A UJIA and B-ICC joint breakfast event welcomed former director of Israel’s National Public Diplomacy Unit and Human Rights Attorney Gadi Ezra. Gadi, who flew in for the event from Israel where he has been serving as a reservist, has been captivating audiences around the world with his unique insights on legal principles in modern warfare, and his experiences during the conflict in Gaza. We caught up with Gadi at the event.

be ensured when such a resolution is crafted. The second thing I learned is that my field experience as a reservist is an advantage because I know what the translation of many celebrated international laws looks like in real life. That understanding increased the accuracy of my work. Also, it led me to provide hundreds of briefings and lectures worldwide about my dual perspective on war: as a human rights attorney and special forces veteran.

How important is the role of the media both here in UK and in Israel to this?

The role of the media in shaping public opinion and leadership’s identity cannot be overstated. It is not just a tool for disseminating information but a powerful force that can influence perceptions and decisions. Therefore, the information domain is as crucial as the kinetic one in any conflict or negotiation.

Tell us more about your talk “From the Law Books to the Battlefield”?

In that talk, I share my team’s story from a down-to-earth perspective, meaning you don’t have to be a lawyer to understand it. I analyse

scenarios we have gone through, explain what the law expected us to do, and then explain what we did in real life. The purpose is double: to stress the complexity of modern urban warfare and exemplify Israel’s high standards from an articulated viewpoint familiar with the law and practice. I can tell you this talk was not just “preached to the choir.” In Brazil, for example, I had a crowd; nearly half of it was Palestinians. It is well accepted not because it is apologetic about Israel’s inherent right for self-defence and territorial integrity – it’s not – but because I try to balance professional knowledge, rather than slogans, with sensitivity when discussing such a complicated issue. My book details that story in length, without the legal analysis, though.

Finally Gadi, tell us about your family and what you enjoy away from work, and your plans for the future?

I’m married to a woman who is undoubtedly the brain in the house, and together, we raise our young child and the dog. I’m a nerd, so I love to read when I have time, work out, and maintain a healthy lifestyle as much as possible. As for the future, I know it will involve contributing to our people somehow.

PHOTO: REFAEL SHACHARI

PHOTO: MIKE POLOWAY

BERNIE YAFFE, ROBERT LEVY, NIGEL TOBIAS, GADI EZRA, MARC LEVY AND GIDEON KLAUS.

PHOTO: MIKE POLOWAY

YAEL MOHALIVER, NIGEL TOBIAS, NICI WERTHEIM, GADI EZRA, CARMEL BERKE AND AMAL COWAN.

Put the bar in barbecue this summer and create your own outdoor bar for the perfect summer tipple.

TO BAR OR NOT TO BAR?

Whether you decide to opt for a tall bar in your garden or a portable bar cart there are some great glamourous choices on the market this summer.

Scavotto metal bar cart | Wayfair | £126.99

This rollable and practical serving cart is a versatile addition to any home. It allows you to easily transport plates, bottles, and cutlery. In addition, it can be used as a shelf, providing additional storage space for your living area.

Wayfair.co.uk

Boston bar set | Dobbies | £499

Impress your guests with this sophisticated bar set which comes equipped with a slide top function and two bar stools. The sliding top pulls away to reveal a bamboo chopping board for effortless meal preparation and three food-grade ice buckets add a touch of luxury to your outdoor drinking experience. With this piece of durable outdoor furniture, you’ll feel like the bar has come to you!

Dobbies.com

SHAKE IT!

Every bar needs a cocktail station! Kit yourself out with all the best gear to make you wonder why you ever left your garden for a drink.

Keter Mia blue rattan effect stool

B&Q | £40

Relax, and keep your drinks cool while you do it. The Cool Stool is a fun stool that hides a 39l cooler under its trendylooking and comfortable surface. It’s made out of a weatherresistant resin that makes it ideal for indoor and outdoor use. The Cool Stool supports up to 100kg allowing for extra seating.

Diy.com

Boogie Woogie cocktail set | Habitat | £28

With everything you need to make the perfect cocktail, this set is designed to make shaken and stirred drinks. Simply mix your ingredients with ice, shake, and pour directly into a glass. Or use the base of the shaker to gently stir your cocktail and pour it through the handy julep strainer.

Habitat.co.uk

CHIN, CHIN

Having glass outdoors is often a recipe for disaster, not only does it have an increased risk of breaking but when they get left outdoors and forgotten about it can often ruin them, so why not convert to plastic?

Set of four shatterproof plastic wine glasses

Next | £20

These plastic rippled wine glasses will shock any guest into thinking they’re real glass. Its faded blush colour with an ombre effect towards the base looks effortlessly elegant and they’re easy to clean and care for so you can use them all summer long.

Next.co.uk

Duclaw acrylic margarita glass set of eight

Wayfair | £56

This acrylic drinkware is easy to care for and emulates the look and feel of glass, so don’t be afraid to take the party outside with these worry-free drinking glasses! These margarita glasses are dishwasher safe and perfect for outdoor use as well as being lightweight, functional, and shatter-proof.

Wayfair.co.uk

EVENTS

Happy Days

There are many good days out to be had over the next few months! Here are some of our picks.

It’s Strange Up North | Waterstones Albion St, Leeds 15th June

Calling all book lovers! Waterstones is hosting an author’s social event, providing you with the unique opportunity to mingle and chat with your favourite writers. There are no stages, panels, or readings, just light-hearted drinks, nibbles, and the opportunity to ask your most burning questions. Tickets are £10, £5 of which will be redeemable for the purchase of any books during the event. To book your ticket and see which authors will be attending you can visit the Waterstones website. Waterstones.com

Let’s Rock Leeds | Temple Newsam | 22nd June

Let’s Rock Leeds – The Retro Festival is back this year to celebrate all things 80s. For one day only you can see an amazing line-up including: Go West, Level 42, Jason Donovan, and Toyah. And if you want to take your experience to the next level you can opt for a VIP ticket which grants you access to the 80s themed Club Tropicana VIP enclosure. You will also receive fast track entry, a meal, and a welcome glass of Prosecco, plus exclusive DJ sets. Letsrockleeds.com

Re:Loaded Weapons of Mass Seduction | Royal Armouries | Until 30th June

This free Royal Armouries exhibition is all about weapons which have been beautified. Explore the reasons for decorating weapons from making a statement in modern art, to peace campaigning. Inviting viewers to reconsider the symbolism of guns in our culture, this exhibition poses a thought-provoking and difficult question to its audience; why attempt to beautify such potentially deadly weapons? Royalarmouries.org/leeds/whatson

Judy & Liza | City Varieties Music Hall 29th June

This dazzling show takes you on a journey through the lives of mother-daughter-duo Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli by way of their most famous hits. West End stars Emma Dears and Helen Sheals, perform songs from Cabaret, Maybe This Time, The Trolley Song, and The Man That Got Away and more with uncanny resemblance to Judy and Liza themselves. Spend an evening with the mother and daughter who really did put the ‘show’ into show business.

Visitleeds.co.uk/whats-on/all-events/judy-liza

Stitch Art | Leeds Art Gallery | 3rd July

Leeds Art Gallery is having a free textile art session. If you want to learn a new skill or perhaps you already have a textiles hobby and just want some guidance and to meet some more likeminded people, then simply book a ticket and head on down. Materials and refreshments are even provided for you at each session. If you need inspiration about what to stitch, all you have to do is take a look around the artworks in the art gallery’s collection! Observing all their different textures, colours, and shapes will get your creativity flowing in no time.

Museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-art-gallery

PHOTO: ANDREW AB

On the Move

On the Move

With a public consultation of a new sustainable light rail system approaching, we look at what the plan could do for our city.

Our bustling city of Leeds is the largest European city without trams or underground transport. With a rapidly growing population and increasing urbanization, the strain on existing transportation infrastructure is palpable as regular drivers will know. With the cancellation of HS2’s Leeds leg, it’s hard not to feel like we’re being left behind as a region. Congestion on roads, environmental concerns, and accessibility issues are just some of the challenges facing the city’s residents and commuters. However, there is hope on the horizon.

Get Connected

forward towards the biggest infrastructure project West Yorkshire has seen since the development of the motorways six decades ago. This will be transformational for the North, helping our communities to thrive and our economy to flourish – benefitting generations to come with greater opportunity and prosperity.

When the Integrated Rail Plan axed HS2’s eastern leg to Leeds in November 2021, a mass transit system was proposed by WYCA instead. Despite criticism, it aims to serve 675,000 people. March 2022 saw £200 million approved to bring the project forward, with an estimated value of £2 billion. However, the £200 million funding may be halved as £100 million may be allocated to investigate whether HS2 trains could travel to Leeds on conventional railway tracks. Construction could begin in 2028, completing by 2040, with initial routes from Bradford to Dewsbury and Leeds.

“We know that mass transit systems have successfully helped to regenerate areas right across the country by boosting connectivity, opportunity and prosperity – and we will work tirelessly to make sure that happens here in West Yorkshire.”

A well-designed light rail system has the potential to significantly enhance connectivity within Leeds and its surrounding areas. By integrating the network with existing public transport services, commuters can enjoy easier journeys across the city. Improved connectivity not only benefits residents but also stimulates economic growth by facilitating easier access to places of employment, schools, and leisure facilities.

All Access Pass

Stop Traffic

So, work to be done, but how will Leeds benefit from this system?

On 7th March this year WYCA outlined a Leeds Line from St James’s Hospital to White Rose Shopping Centre and a Bradford Line to a new station: a plan which is awaiting Department of Transport approval, with a public consultation slated for summer 2024.

The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said on the day: “Today is a key milestone in our plan to create a better-connected region that works for all. By setting out our plans to submit to government, we are taking a major step

One of the most visible problems plaguing our is traffic congestion. The city’s roads often resemble car park’s during peak hours, leading to frustration, wasted time, and increased air pollution. A light rail system offers a solution diverting commuters onto the light rail network, congestion can be alleviated, leading to smoother traffic flow for all road users.

Breathe Easy

Air pollution is a significant concern in urban areas, contributing to health problems such as respiratory issues and cardiovascular disease. Leeds, like many cities, grapples with high levels of pollution, reducing emissions and improving air quality is vital. Electric or hybrid light rail vehicles offer a cleaner and greener mode of transportation for the city’s residents.

Accessibility is a crucial consideration in any public transport system, ensuring that it caters to the needs of all members of society, including those with mobility impairments. With its low-floor design and level boarding platforms, light rail offers greater accessibility compared to traditional buses or heavy rail.

Attract Cash

Investing in public transport infrastructure can serve as a catalyst for economic development in Leeds. The construction phase creates jobs and stimulates demand for goods and services, providing a boost to our local economy. Once operational, the light rail system attracts investment to areas along the route, spurring commercial and residential development.

For more information

All looking good then. But based on the work around Leeds city station currently, there will be much frustration for long periods before we can enjoy the benefits.

With Raffaele Saccoccio from ES Motors Moortown

How do car brakes work?

Most cars will have disc brakes on their front wheels and either disc or drum brakes on their back wheels.

With disc brakes, when you press the brake pedal, the hydraulic brake fluid makes the brake caliper push the brake pad against the brake disc. As the brake pad rubs against the brake disc, the friction slows down the wheels.

What are the parts in a car’s braking system?

• Brake discs – Metal discs that rotate along with the wheel.

• Brake pads – Pads on either side of the brake discs that cause friction when the brake pedal is pressed.

• Brake calipers – Contain the piston and brake pads. They clamp onto the disc when braking.

• Brake lines – Transport brake fluid through the braking system.

Take a Brake MOTORING

• Brake fluid – Fills the brake lines and uses hydraulic pressure to activate the calipers when the brake pedal is pressed.

• Brake master cylinder – A hydraulic piston attached to the brake pedal to pressurise the braking circuit and activate the brakes.

• Brake servo – Attached to the master cylinder, it uses vacuum generated by the vehicle’s engine or a pump to increase the pressure when the brake pedal is pressed.

Disc brakes vs drum brakes

Disc brakes are more expensive than drum brakes and are usually considered to be better. Braking creates a lot of heat which needs to escape quickly. Disc brakes work well because they:

• Have a more open design which lets in air to cool them down and makes them less likely to overheat.

• Work better in wet conditions.

• Are less likely to lock up.

Parking brakes

A car’s handbrake activates a cable which squeezes the rear brake pads closed and stops the car moving. Some cars have separate discs and pads specifically for the handbrake. Other cars have an electronic parking brake

COMING UP IN YOUR NEXT JLIFE

which uses a button instead of a handbrake. The car’s handbook will show how to release the brakes if the car battery’s flat.

So, when should I replace my brakes? There are a number of reasons why brakes wear over time.

• As they’re used, friction wears brake pads and discs thinner.

• Brake components rust easily.

• Brakes on heavier vehicles will wear out faster.

• Heavy braking from high speed causes most wear.

• Driving in lots of stop-start traffic causes more wear on brakes.

If you notice any problems with your brakes, you should take your car to a garage/mechanic. Problems can include:

• Brakes not as sharp as they used to be.

• Noisy or squealing brakes.

• Spongy brakes.

• Leaks from the brake lines.

• Vibrations or pulling through the steering wheel when braking.

• The brake warning light comes on. Esgarageleeds.co.uk

Lend a Hand

It’s Volunteer Week in June, so we signpost some excellent Leeds organisations looking for eager volunteers.

Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of volunteers across the UK. Held annually in June (3rd to 9th June this year), this event shines a spotlight on the invaluable work of individuals who selflessly give their time and skills to support their communities. In Leeds, a city known for its vibrant culture and strong sense of community, Volunteer Week holds special significance. From lending a helping hand to those experiencing homelessness to promoting social inclusion and wellbeing, there are numerous opportunities for volunteering in our city.

Homeless Street Angels

Dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, Homeless Street Angels provides essential services such as hot meals, clothing, and outreach support in Leeds. Volunteers play a crucial role in this charity by assisting with street outreach, distributing food and supplies, and providing a listening ear to those in need. Whether you’re passionate about making a direct impact on the lives of the homeless population or want to contribute your time to fundraising and awareness campaigns, Homeless Street Angels offers various volunteering opportunities for individuals looking to make a difference.

Homelessstreetangels.co.uk

Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB)

spare each week or want to contribute your professional skills to support LJWB’s mission, there are volunteering opportunities available to suit your interests and availability.

Ljwb.co.uk

Leeds Mind

Leeds Mind is a mental health charity that provides support, information, and services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges in Leeds. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting the delivery of Leeds Mind’s programmes and activities, including peer support groups, counselling services, and community outreach initiatives. Whether you have personal experience with mental health issues or simply want to make a difference in the lives of others, Leeds Mind offers volunteering opportunities that enable you to contribute your time and skills to promote mental wellbeing and reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.

Leedsmind.org.uk

St. Gemma’s Hospice

Leeds Women’s Aid

Leeds Women’s Aid is dedicated to providing support and refuge for women and children experiencing domestic violence and abuse in Leeds. Volunteers play a crucial role in delivering services such as helpline support, advocacy, and outreach to survivors of domestic abuse. Whether you have experience in social work, counselling, or simply want to provide a compassionate ear to those in need, Leeds Women’s Aid offers volunteering opportunities that allow you to support survivors and contribute to the fight against domestic violence in the community.

Leedswomensaid.co.uk

LJWB is committed to enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life for members of our community in Leeds. From providing social care services to supporting families and older adults, LJWB relies on volunteers to help deliver its vital programmes and initiatives. Volunteers can get involved in a range of activities, including befriending, administrative support, event planning, and community outreach. Whether you have a few hours to

St. Gemma’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses and their families in Leeds. Volunteers play an essential role in enhancing the quality of life for patients and supporting the hospice’s operations across various departments, including patient care, fundraising, retail, and administration. Whether you’re interested in providing companionship and support to patients, helping with fundraising events, or assisting with administrative tasks, St. Gemma’s Hospice offers rewarding volunteering opportunities that enable you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

St-gemma.co.uk

Clean Air Day is an annual event designed to raise awareness about air pollution and promote actions to improve air quality. The UK’s largest air pollution campaign is celebrated this year on 20th June with the theme ‘Together for Clean Air’ and will see thousands of people up and down the country come together to voice support, hold events and make pledges to take action on toxic air.

But why does clean air matter? Well, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UK government recognises that air pollution poses one of the most significant environmental health risks of our time. It’s linked to various health issues, including heart and lung diseases, low birth weight and deficient lung development in children, and even mental health problems. Shockingly, air pollution contributes to up to 36,000 deaths in the UK every year.

Taking action for clean air

By making some small changes at home, you can help to combat air pollution, protect the earth’s atmosphere, and ensure healthier air for everyone. Doing so is easy and the benefits are huge. Clean air reduces the risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung infections and improves lung function and overall wellbeing. It also lowers the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues, positively impacts brain health, promotes better sleep, leading to improved mental and physical health and contributes to overall health and longevity. For the planet, clean air benefits ecosystems by supporting plant growth, reducing soil and water pollution, and preserving biodiversity.

Clean Air Day 2024 is approaching fast, and it’s time to join the movement for healthier air… writes Julie Burniston.

Improving indoor air quality

Indoor air pollution levels can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels, according to Britsafe (British Safety Council). Various pollutants, including dust, pollen, pet hair, mould, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning supplies, paint, glue, and air fresheners, can accumulate indoors, leading to poor indoor air quality. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can cause a range of health problems, from minor irritations such as headaches and nausea to more serious conditions such as asthma, allergies, and even lung cancer.

Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to improve the air quality in your home, creating a healthier environment for you and your family:

Regular cleaning: Dust and vacuum regularly, paying attention to areas where dust accumulates, such as carpets, rugs, and upholstery.

Decluttering your home can also help reduce the surfaces where dust and allergens can collect.

Proper ventilation: Open windows and doors whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. Consider installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and pollutants.

Air purifiers: Look for a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to remove pollutants, allergens, and odours from the air in your home.

Maintain humidity levels: Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent the growth of mould, mildew, and dust mites.

Avoid tobacco smoke indoors: If you smoke, consider doing so outdoors to prevent pollutants from accumulating indoors.

Switch to green cleaning products: Opt for natural cleaning products or make your own using ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

Bring nature indoors: Certain indoor plants, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and Boston ferns, can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing harmful pollutants and releasing oxygen.

Raise awareness and take action for cleaner air by visiting Actionforcleanair.org.uk to get involved in the campaign.

LODGE AND THE LODGE OF DAWN PLAYED THEIR ANNUAL POOL TOURNAMENT.

SYNAGOGUE HELD AN ENJOYABLE PASSOVER EVENT.

IN THE MIDST OF THE CELEBRATIONS THE MEMBERS TOOK A MOMENT TO THINK ABOUT THE HOSTAGES BEING HELD IN GAZA.

LOYALTY

SINAI

THE LODGE OF DAWN RAN OUT WINNERS IN A CLOSELY FOUGHT CONTEST.

PHOTO: SIMON@ADDICTIVE.MEDIA

PHOTO: SIMON@ADDICTIVE.MEDIA

PHOTO: SIMON@ADDICTIVE.MEDIA

EVEN THE LITTLEST MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY GOT INVOLVED.

KEELEIGH TEDFORD MARRIED JACOB PYRAH.

CELEBRATING WERE FAMILY, KEELEIGH’S MUM ROMNEY, DAD ANDREW, GRANDMA BARBARA AND GRANDAD WARREN GILMORE.

BRIDESMAIDS WERE LIV WARDEN-HUGHES, DALIYA GOLDBERG, ZOE LIVINGSTONE, LILLY LEEK, AND HARRIETT PYRAH.

THE NUPTIALS TOOK PLACE AT THE ENGINE SHED WETHERBY WITNESSED BY KEELEIGH’S BROTHER HARRY AND LIV WARDEN-HUGHES.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

We may be in the middle of summer, but with the autumn and winter chill soon to set in, many of us will be thinking wistfully of jetting off to sunnier locales. Planning a winter getaway to look forward to is a sure-fire way to beat the gloom as the weather turns. While many flock to typical tropical paradises, there’s a gem in North Africa that offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and sunshine: Morocco. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco beckons visitors with its vibrant cities, rugged mountains, and vast deserts.

While much of Europe and North America shiver in subzero temperatures, Morocco enjoys a mild and sunny winter climate. With average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) in popular destinations like Marrakech and Fes, visitors can bask in the warmth without breaking a sweat. This pleasant weather creates the perfect conditions for exploring Morocco’s diverse landscapes and outdoor activities.

It’s a country that boasts an astonishing variety of landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the golden sands of the Sahara Desert. In winter, these landscapes take on a special charm, with crisp mountain air invigorating hikers and skiers, while the desert offers serene tranquillity under the gentle winter sun. Whether you’re trekking through lush valleys or camel riding across vast dunes, its diverse terrain promises unforgettable experiences.

Moroccan cuisine is a feast for the senses, bursting with exotic flavours and aromatic

spices. Winter is the perfect time to indulge in hearty tagines, fragrant couscous, and freshly baked bread enjoyed alongside mint tea. Street food vendors come alive during this season, offering sizzling kebabs, flaky pastries, and sweet treats like msemen and chebakia. Embark on a culinary journey through Morocco’s diverse gastronomic landscape, where each meal is a celebration of tradition and hospitality.

For thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, a playground of adventure activities year-round awaits. Winter is an especially inviting time to explore the country’s natural wonders, whether you’re hiking through the Todra Gorge, surfing along the Atlantic coast, or skiing in the Atlas Mountains. Adventurous souls can also embark on desert safaris, quad biking excursions, or hot air balloon rides for a bird’s-eye view of some breathtaking landscapes.

Compared to peak tourist season in the summer, winter offers more affordable travel options with accommodation prices tending to drop, and you’ll often find deals on flights and tours to stretch your travel budget further. With less of a crowd you can enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience without breaking the bank. Check out some of the highlights Morocco has to offer:

Marrakech

Marrakech, often dubbed the “Red City” for its distinctive red-hued buildings, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. One of its standout attractions is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, a homage to the iconic fashion designer who found endless inspiration in Morocco. Exploring Marrakech’s historic heart, the Medina, is an adventure in itself. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine alleyways filled with bustling souks, where the air is infused with the scent of exotic spices and the lively chatter of traders. Here, visitors can haggle for everything from handcrafted textiles to intricate metalwork, immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant marketplace culture. After a day of exploration, retreat to a traditional Moroccan guesthouse known as a Riad. These tranquil oases hidden behind unassuming doorways offer respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, with serene courtyards and elegant architecture evoking a sense of timeless beauty.

Volubis

Venture beyond the city limits of Marrakech, and you’ll discover Volubis, an ancient Roman city steeped in history. Located near the city of Meknes, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s rich archaeological heritage. Wander among the well-preserved ruins of temples, forums, and grand villas, imagining life in this bustling city centuries ago. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the intricate mosaics that adorn the floors of ancient homes, a testament to the craftsmanship of the past.

illuminating the dunes, casting them in hues of gold and pink — a sight that will stay with you long after you leave.

Chefchaouen

Santorini might be famous for its blue roofs, but Chefchaouen takes things a step further—a village that is entirely blue! Nestled in the Rif Mountains in northern Morocco, Chefchaouen is a picturesque haven known for its charming, blue-washed buildings. Its narrow cobblestone streets adorned with pots of vibrant flowers offer a serene atmosphere that pervades this idyllic town. Whether you’re capturing Instagram-worthy shots or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Chefchaouen’s distinctive beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Fes

Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Fes, often referred to as the cultural capital of Morocco. Home to the world’s oldest university and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fes is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and historical landmarks. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the Medina, where centuries-old mosques, madrasas, and palaces await around every corner, or stroll through the bustling tanneries, where skilled artisans practice age-old techniques to produce exquisite leather goods. With its rich tapestry of culture and tradition, Fes offers a glimpse into Morocco’s storied past.

VEEZU, THE NEW NAME FOR AMBER CARS

Leeds’ biggest private hire operator Amber Cars has changed its name to Veezu.

Veezu is the UK’s fastest-growing and largest private hire technology platform and operates from regional hubs across the country. Amber Cars has been operating across the Leeds and Bradford area since 1987 and was acquired by Veezu in 2015. Since then, the firm has grown to partner with more than 16,000 driver-partners across the UK and has grown exponentially with the acquisition of local brands like Premier Cars, Gee Gee Cars, and Wheels Private Hire.

This rebrand marks a significant milestone in the firm’s journey towards revolutionising transportation services in Leeds, Bradford, and neighbouring areas.

Chris Neary, Regional Operations Director for Veezu in Leeds, said: “The rebrand is more than a name change. We are firmly putting the Veezu name on the map in Leeds while staying committed to serving our local community.

We’re introducing new technology to make it easier for people to access transportation across the region and continue to support hyperlocal causes to ensure we remain at the heart of our communities.”

Passengers can still call the usual local number 0113 202 2112 but Veezu is introducing a new mobile app so that passengers can skip queues and book a ride in a matter of seconds.

The new app will give passengers a muchimproved user experience, with smarter address search capabilities, easier access and improved functions across the board. Veezu also offers multiple payment options, including Google Pay, Apple Pay, AirPay, card, or cash, making travel even more convenient for passengers.

As part of its rebranding efforts, Veezu is excited to unveil an extensive marketing campaign entitled ‘Smarter Local Rides’ in

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

the Leeds private hire vehicle market. The campaign also introduces its ‘Funded by Veezu’ initiative to residents across the region. The new community support programme is a way in which local not-for-profit initiatives can receive grants and support.

Driver-partners, local businesses and passengers are invited to embrace the Veezu identity and continue its mission to provide safe, efficient, and affordable transportation services to the communities of Leeds, Bradford and beyond.

To download the Veezu app, scan the QR code.

WEIGHTLIFTERS IN ACTION

Andrea Silverman, National Services and Community Liaison for Paperweight, introduces the charity’s

new Leeds branch and how it can help you.

Step into any Paperweight office in London, Manchester, Gateshead or our newest branch in Leeds, and all’s outwardly calm, tranquil, even relaxed. People ask: ‘What does Paperweight do?’

A more apt question is: ‘What does Paperweight not do?’ While grown from humble beginnings in 2011 Paperweight now has a vast, multifaceted reach within UK’s Jewish community, having helped over 20,000 people who talk of the transformative nature of Paperweight’s intervention.

Unusually, Paperweight runs almost entirely on dedicated volunteer power (last count, nearly 200) – offering grass roots perspectives on the reality of life for ordinary Jewish folk – and it’s

not always a rose-tinted view.

Perhaps some within the community have viewed previous recessions/crisis with something akin to detachment, muttering idly ‘That’s not my problem’ or ‘This won’t concern my family’. Well, no longer… the current crises (postCOVID; cost-of-living; global conflicts etc.) will undoubtedly mark us all this time around.

Paperweight’s National Helpline is for every Jewish person, wherever you live. But we now have many regional branches offering even more personal attention. We’re particularly delighted to have recently opened our new Leeds office, fronted by two experienced Coordinators, Suzanne Benjamin and David Wynick. Suzanne

and David are situated in LJHA’s building on Stonegate Way where all visitors are warmly welcomed.

The charity helps with finances; benefits; elderly care; household administration and will join you in battling legal entanglements; bureaucracy; debt issues and any real-life crises that, alone, feel crushing and overwhelming.

All callers are compassionately answered by our Helpline Assessors who take details, then allocate a volunteer Caseworker who’ll contact the client directly and help going forwards.

A Caseworker could be a professional, a welfare provider or come from a life of service who still has a wellspring of experience to give. Retired or working, they all share that ‘can do’ attitude and be advocacy spirited.

Throughout a client’s journey, Paperweight offers respect and dignity, knowing people come to us at a low ebb and from a point of pain - we’ll lift you up when it seems no-one else has the time.

Please don’t delay – we’re right here, right now, waiting for your call or visit.

Paperweight.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer 0330 174 4300

Dairy Delights

Cheesecake and sweet treats are Shavuot staples, but for those with less of a sweet tooth, here are two savoury dairy-heavy recipes to celebrate the festival with.

Spinach And Cheese Borekas

Ingredients

1 package of puff pastry dough, thawed

250g frozen spinach, thawed and drained

250g of crumbled feta cheese

125g cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

60g cup of grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 190 C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Roll out the puff pastry dough and cut it into squares.

4. Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture onto each square of dough.

5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle and seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.

6. Place the filled borekas onto the prepared baking sheet.

7. Brush the tops of the borekas with the beaten egg wash.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the borekas are golden brown and crispy.

Creamy Mushroom And Leek Quiche

Ingredients

1 pre-made pie crust

1 tablespoon of olive oil

1 leek, thinly sliced

8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced

4 eggs

1 cup of heavy cream

1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 190 C.

2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and mushrooms, and sauté until softened, about five to seven minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined.

4. Stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese into the egg mixture.

5. Place the pre-made pie crust into a pie dish. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork.

6. Spread the sautéed leek and mushroom mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.

7. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the leek and mushroom layer.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown on top.

9. Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

10. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then slice and serve.

Shavuot and Showerheads

Rabbi Doniel Stern shares some thoughts on desensitisation to pleasure around Shavuot.

“Take me to the biggest Penguin in Jerusalem and I will fight it out with him,” Avichai told his friend.

With his piercing blue eyes and chiselled chin, companies were falling over themselves to have Avichai be ‘their’ model. Shortly after completing his army service in the elite Duvdevan unit, Avichai became ‘the’ male supermodel in Israel. Within a very short amount of time, the catwalks of Milan and New York heard about Avichai, and he started to get bookings from designers such as D&G and YSL. Avichai was asked by a friend at one point if he was going to eat on Yom Kippur. “Why not?” he responded. The secular friend asked him how he could be so brazen. Avichai answered back“You are a hypocrite; you fast on Yom Kippur yet you don’t eat kosher or keep Shabbat. Either it is all true or none of it is.” He began searching for a more spiritual dimension to his life, and one of his last stops was at a Buddhist centre. The leader of the centre didn’t know that he was a Jew, yet told him “My son, the only place where spiritual faith and intellectual knowledge come together is in Judaism. Go and study those books.”

Returning to Israel, he told his friend: “Take me to the biggest Penguin in Jerusalem and I will fight it out with him.”

I would like to focus on one of the arguments within that discussion of over three hours. Avichai asked the Rabbi: “How can you live such a restricted lifestyle – you have zero pleasure?” The Rabbi responded simply: “We have more physical pleasure in life than you do.” Avichai laughed and challenged him to demonstrate his point. The Rabbi asked: “What do you do when you pass a billboard featuring an immodest image?” In typical Jewish fashion, Avichai retorted: “Nu, what do you do?” He said softly: “I will try not to look. 99% of the time I will be successful but if I do glimpse at the image

it will play on my mind for quite some time. Now your turn, would you look?” Avichai replied, “Yes.” The Rabbi queried: “Does it do anything for you?” Avichai laughed. “I’m surrounded by these things 24/7. It doesn’t impact me at all.”

The Rabbi gazed into Avichai’s piercing blue eyes. “That proves my point. At 24 years old, at the peak of your drive for physical pleasure, something that God made with tremendous beauty does nothing for you. Shocking. Yet I maintain a tremendously powerful sensitivity for such pleasure.”

I like to compare this to a shower. When you open all of the holes on the showerhead, the pressure is relatively low. However when only the central holes are open, the pressure is incredible. Our Loving Father in heaven created us to have maximum pleasure. He gave us a system through the Torah that closes many avenues of gratification, but it is precisely this that allows us to retain the sensitivity for immense pleasure.

The Shavuot celebration of receiving of the Torah has many dimensions. Torah gives us the ability to build a stunning relationship with the One Above. Torah provides the tools to successfully navigate a physical world, while building a spiritual eternity. And even on a superficial level, it gives us the ability to maximise physical pleasure, eternally.

Today, Avichai dresses like a penguin, sporting a long silver beard and curly payot. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife and many kids, spending his days immersed in Torah study, living the life God has in mind for all us; a life of intense pleasure.

Hot to Trot!

Julie Burniston rounds up some exciting new films, books, TV shows, and music coming your way in the next few months!

For Movie Lovers

Deadpool & Wolverine|Release date: July 25th

Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Emma Corrin

Hugh Jackman is back as Wolverine, even though he said goodbye to the character in Logan. This time, he’s teaming up with Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool for an adventure set before Wolverine’s demise. The plot goes something like this: while going through a midlife crisis, Wade Wilson decides to officially retire Deadpool and become a used car salesman. But when his friends, family, and the whole world are at stake, Deadpool decides to come out of retirement and recruits an unwilling Wolverine to fight for their survival and their legacy.

A Quiet Place: Day One|Release date: June 28th

Starring: Djimon Hounsou, Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff

A prequel to A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place II, this offering features a new cast in a different setting. The plot follows Sammy (Lupita Nyong’o), who visits New York City right as it gets invaded by aliens. She teams up with a stranger named Eric (Joseph Quinn), and they desperately try to make it out of the city in time.

The Bikeriders|Release Date: June 21st

Starring: Tom Hardy, Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, Michael B. Jordan and Charlize Theron

An exhilarating action thriller which delves into the perilous world of motorcycle gangs, The Bikeriders centres on Jack ‘Steel’ Thompson (Tom Hardy), the formidable leader of a notorious gang, as he navigates the treacherous underworld of a small town. When a rival gang threatens to seize their territory, Steel and his loyal sidekick Eva (Margot Robbie), must defend their turf and uphold their way of life. As tensions rise and betrayals emerge, Steel is drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse that pushes him to the brink and forces him to confront his own inner demons.

Despicable Me 4|Release date: July 12th

Starring the voices of: Will Ferrell and Sofia Vergara

One for all the family. In this fourth instalment of the animated comedy franchise, Gru faces a new nemesis, Maxime Le Mal (played by Emmy winner Will Ferrell), and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina (portrayed by Emmy nominee Sofia Vergara). The family is forced to go on the run in this exciting adventure!

For Book Lovers

The Briar

Club by Kate Quinn (HarperCollins)

Publication date: July 9th

Plot: In 1950, the Briarwood serves as a women’s boarding-house in Washington, D.C. When Grace March moves to Briarwood, the mysterious widow creates strong female friendships between the residents with her weekly dinner parties and tea. With the fear of McCarthy’s Red Scare spreading through town, a shocking act of violence divides the house and forces the women to ponder who truly is their enemy.

What Have You Done? By Shari Lapena (Transworld)

Publication date: July 30th

Plot: In the sleepy little town of Fairhill, Vermont, nothing ever happens. Until one day, popular teen Diana Brewer is found dead in a hayfield. Now everyone in Fairhill is on edge, knowing that someone among them is a killer. With the tension of a small-town mystery and a bit of the paranormal, What Have You Done? is likely to be one of the summer’s must-read new thrillers.

The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin (Ballantine)

Publication date: July 9th

Plot: Randomly assigned to a shared dorm, four college freshman become inseparable best friends: party girl Lainey, clever academic

Tyson, perfectionist athlete Summer, and mildmannered Hannah. But as graduation nears, a tragic event causes them to always be there for each other in times of need. Fast forward ten years and a struggling Hannah calls the group together for a reunion.

The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman (Viking)

Publication date: July 16th

Plot: Searching for a place at the Round Table, Collum, a talented young knight, arrives in Camelot only to discover that King Arthur died just two weeks ago. Teaming up with the ragtag knights leftover in Arthur’s fellowship after the exalted heroes left, Collum and Nimue, Merlin’s apprentice, try to rebuild Camelot. With warlords laying siege to the city and factions forming around Lancelot and Guinevere, Collum and his companions set out to reclaim Excalibur and learn the truth about King Arthur’s death in this new epic fantasy series from the author of The Magicians.

For Music Lovers

Meghan Trainor, Timeless (Epic Records) – June 14th

Avril Lavigne Greatest Hits – June 21st

Camila Cabello, C,XOXO (Interscope Records) – June 28th

Sam Tompkins - hi, my name is insecure (Island Records) – July 26th

For Tv Buffs

June 17th: House Of The Dragon Series 2 (8 episodes) Sky Atlantic

June 13th: The Boys Series 4, Prime Video

June 27th: The Bear Series 3 (10 episodes) Disney +

July 18th: Cobra Kai Series 6A (5 episodes) Netflix

Serving It Up

With tennis season in full flow, find out how to throw the perfect Wimbledon party.

Wimbledon is the ideal time to plan a gathering of your friends and family for a celebration of tennis, tradition, and British summer vibes! Whether you’re a fan or just love a good party, JLife’s guide to hosting the ultimate tennisthemed bash will have everyone saying, ‘Game, Set, Match!’ So, grab your tennis whites, pour yourself a Pimm’s, and get ready to celebrate in style!

Setting the scene

While your guests won’t be expecting perfectly manicured lawns like the ones at the All-England Club, having your outdoor space in tip top condition will make a good first impression. So, take some time to mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and dig out the weeds to create an inviting atmosphere. Set up plenty of seatingoutdoor tables and patio chairs for eating, garden sofas, loungers, or beanbags for chilling – you could even grab a couple of hay bales and cover them with throws. If your party day is cooler, consider providing blankets to keep the chill at bay.

Create a festive atmosphere by decorating your space in Wimbledon’s trademark green and purple colours or go all out with a Union Jack theme and a riot of red, white, and blue! If you have enough space, set up a viewing area with TV and seating so guests can watch some of the action. For an extra touch try tennis ball balloons around the party area and use rackets and balls as centrepieces on your table. Consider setting up a photo booth with tennis-themed props for

fun photos that your guests can take home as mementos.

Given the unpredictable British weather, it’s probably a good idea to have a Plan B in the shape of a covered area or small marquee in case rain stops play.

Dress

code

Are you going high end or casual? Whatever you decide, encouraging your guests to dress in tennis whites will add to the fun. Think crisp white shorts, summer dresses, or even sports-inspired outfits for a touch of Wimbledon style.

When it comes to food it has to be the classic Wimbledon dessert – strawberries and cream! Arrange platters of juicy strawberries alongside bowls of whipped cream for a delicious and traditional treat. Include other British summer treats such as cucumber sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and Victoria sponge.

Activities

Keep your guests entertained with fun Wimbledon-themed activities and games that everyone can enjoy. Set up a mini tennis court and organise a friendly tournament for your

Food and drink

It wouldn’t be Wimbledon without Pimm’s. The Original Pimm’s No 1 is traditionally topped with lemonade or can be made using ginger beer. If you’re really pushing the boat out, A Pimm’s Royale is made using Champagne instead of lemonade. Whichever you decide, don’t forget to top up your creation with fresh mint leaves, chopped strawberries, sliced orange, chopped cucumber and plenty of ice.

guests. You could even award prizes to the winners to add to the competitive spirit. How about some fun bingo cards with tennis-related words and phrases for guests to mark off while watching the matches. It’s a fun way to get everyone involved and engaged in the action. For younger guests, consider setting up a treasure hunt or other Wimbledon-themed games to keep them entertained and active throughout the day.

Courage is Grace

We chat with author Hugo de Burgh,

about his new novel To the River, recounting a story of courage and altruism in Second World War Italy.

Set in Second World War Italy where Nazi troops are massacring whole villages in retaliation for help being given to even a single fugitive, To the River is the new novel by Hugo de Burgh. Outside a pretty country town is a prison camp of six hundred British, Commonwealth and American soldiers seething with hatred for Italians. A young widow Lucia does a deal with escapee FitzGerald, allowing the prisoners to escape into the hills or make their way out of Nazi occupied Italy. FitzGerald himself moves from farm to farm until his contempt for Italians turns into admiration for the impoverished people who risk everything to succour a stranger.

Hugo was Walt Disney Chair of Media and Communications at Schwarzman College of International Relations, Tsinghua University, until 2022 and has published a number of books, though this is his first foray into fiction: “I’ve always wanted to write books, but like many people, one has to earn one’s living,” Hugo tells us. “I ended up writing books which were connected with my job as a university professor, rather than the books I really wanted to write, like To the River.”

The story within the novel is based on several true accounts from people Hugo has met throughout his life: “My parents were soldiers who met in Italy in 1944. My mother was a British Intelligence officer who had worked with refugees from Germany and Central Europe, investigating the atrocities the Nazis were doing. She

was posted to Italy, where she met my father. Therefore, I knew about this story all my life, though when I was younger, I didn’t take it very seriously. By the 1980s my father had passed away, and some of the lads who had been in the prison camp with him, invited me to go and meet them for lunch in London. They told me their stories about how they had escaped with my father and been helped by these Italian villagers.

I’ve always wanted to write books, but like many people, one has to earn one’s living.

“I also worked for Channel 4 for some time, and I was sent to America to interview a man called Samuel Oliner, a Jewish refugee. As a young boy, his entire family had been saved by some Poles. He became a professor of Psychology in the United States, where he studied the motivations of the rescuers. He spent most of his professional life trying to understand what the difference was for these few people who risked all to help others in pain.”

It is this question of altruism which drives the main theme of the book: “The main theme of the story is the ability of some people to be courageously altruistic, and to help when nobody else is. To help others when it is the worst thing to do for themselves and their families. It’s Samuel Oliner’s theme, which I have tried to present in different context in the novel.”

To get your own copy of To the River visit Hugodeburgh.com/book/to-the-river/

LastTheWORD

The word influencer has taken on a new meaning in recent years and is now associated with generally younger, social media savvy people. In the past when we would say someone was influential, it normally meant someone has wealth or connections – or connections due to their wealth – that they could use to bend others to their point of view. Now the rules have been turned on their head.

In Hebrew terms, the term for an influencer is mashpian. I find this somewhat ironic because the name “mashpia” has been used for some of the most well-respected rabbis in living memory. It is a title to give

HIGH INFLUENCE

Rabbi

Eli Pink of Chabad Lubavitch

on what it really means to be a Jewish influencer.

to a rabbi who would be revered, whether in a Yeshiva or Seminary, or sometimes in a community, for their learning, knowledge, life skills and counselling abilities. It is about as far away as possible as one could think from a modern social media influencer.

In my role as a rabbi, I am often an informal mashpia to many people, but I am always interested in widening the number of people in the community. I want to be both the old style mashpia and the modern mashpian. My nephew, like many his age, has an interest in social media optimising and promoting and has helped us set up a TikTok account for Chabad Lubavitch Leeds (you can follow us on TikTok @chabad.lubavitch. leeds) and is helping me with producing content.

While some might consider this a clash of old values and new, in truth Judaism believes that anything that G-d has created can be used in a positive way. While social media is often a cesspit of hatred, conspiracy theories and bullying, it also has many positives as well.

As we go into the summer months, with few Jewish holidays and celebrations, we can use social media and online opportunities to stay connected to our Judaism. Check out websites, Torahcafe.com or Jewish.tv. Follow positive Jewish influencers like Rabbi Manis Friedman or Rabbi Yossi Jacobson. And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok and Instagram!