JLife Leeds June-July 2023

Available at Junction 32 Shopping Centre - Castleford Medowhall - Sheffield

CONTENTS:

IN THISISSUE JUN / JUL 2023 YOUR REGULARFEATURES

Father’s Day

Treat your dad to something special with our Father’s Day gift guide. Page 32.

Bar & Bat Mitzvah Special

We take a look at photos from days gone by, twinning programmes, and a tech gift guide. Starts page 36.

Wetherby and Boston Spa

Get to know the what’s going on with our rundown of the perfect day out. Starts page 46.

Summer Essentials

Everything you need to kickstart your summer from yoga and bike routes to latest fashion. Starts page 50.

PUBLISHER

Elliot Landy

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Stephanie du Preez

FEATURES EDITOR

Emily Stone

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Katerina Hough

MARKETING

Tracey Cleminson

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Claire Brown

Alan Benstock

Simon Marcus: Addictive Media

Tom Saimon

CONTRIBUTORS

Dan Cohen

Dr Finlay's Private Practice ES Motors

Leon & Co

Gary Don

James Daly

JLife Meets…

Noam Kalina, from GistMD on the new tech platform for the medical industry. Page 21. Stained glass guru Jo-Ann Eisenberg about her aweinspiring creations. Page 58.

Nick Wayne on the latest updates on Leeds 2023 Year of Culture and how you can get involved. Page 61. Adi Joseph from ByAdiva. com with the latest summer fashion trends. Page 78.

Community

Read up on the latest news, events, and simchas across the community. Starts page 11.

Media Preview

Our picks of binge worthy TV, film, and reading coming your way. Page 8.

Event Horizon

Check out the hottest events coming to Leeds this summer! Page 27.

Travel

Want to follow the road less travelled? Here are some beautiful, overlooked travel destinations. Page 28.

Sustainability

Contribute to a cleaner ocean for World Ocean Day on 8th June. Page 62.

Competitions

Win a free medical worth £750 at Dr Finlay’s new LS17 Private Practice. Page 51. Win a half day glass fusing class, in which you will produce your own piece of stained-glass artwork. Page 58. Win a spa day worth £160 from Mottram Hall. Page 79.

WINNER, WINNER!

Kevin Orrell won a pair of Ray Ban sunglasses from James Daly Opticians!

Congratulations to Mollie Williams who won an afternoon tea at The Pantry Oakwood.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

With summer on the way, we visit Wetherby and Boston Spa for a perfect day out, and it’s time again for our Bat and Bar Mitzvah focus, there are some amazing twinning programmes which will enhance your Simcha. Recent events included a super night organised by LJHA, where Fauda fans loved meeting Lior Raz, aka Doron. We catch up with Leeds 2023 Year of Culture and all the latest what’s on and community and business chat.

Some sunny summer fashion will get you ready for our unusual travel destinations, and don’t forget Father’s Day, get some ideas on how to treat dad! In business we meet Noam Kalina, from GistMD on the new tech platform for the medical industry. Page 21.

Please enter our fabulous spa day competition at Mottram Hall, a chance for a free medical with Dr Finlay’s new practice in LS17, and some lessons to become a stained glass expert! You can get daily updates if you follow us on our socials.

Until next time...

Shenderey Events

Manning Stainton

Yaakov Pinsky Simply Hearing Winston Solicitors

Adi Joseph

Nick Wayne

Copyright JLife Leeds. Any reproduction of content whole or part strictly forbidden without written consent by the editor. JLife Leeds is a commercial publication and is not the official voice of the Jewish community. Editorial policies & magazine

Camp Simcha Extends Services

Camp Simcha is extending its services to include support for children who have suffered a serious accident or severe short-term illness. The children’s charity provides practical and therapeutic care to families in need as well as connecting them to wider communities who organise events, outings, and support groups.

Dan Gillis, Camp Simcha’s Head of Services said: “When a child suffers from an unexpected trauma or illness, even a short-term one, the whole family’s life can be turned upside down. Extending our criteria to families in this traumatic situation is an obvious next step and will fit seamlessly with the work we already do.”

Now families will have access to the support of Camp Simcha if their child has suffered a serious illness such as meningitis or has been involved in an accident which requires surgery. Dan says: “While we hope all cases like these will have a positive outcome, the focused support we offer can really help mitigate some of the impact for the family – and stabilise them through the trauma.”

LJWB Continues London Marathon Tradition

After the passing of Lloyd Rakusen this February, this year’s London Marathon cast a shadow over Leeds’ Jewish Welfare Board, having lost a devoted fundraiser and beloved friend. To continue the tradition Lloyd’s son Phillip decided to run the marathon in his father’s memory.

Shelley Frieze, LJWB’s Donor Engagement and Fundraising Manager said: “Lloyd was a true inspiration, over the years he has taken novice runners under his wing and helped them train to compete in this amazing 26.6 mile event.”

Phillip and his team raised more than double what they usually raise, earning a stunning £45,000 for LJWB’s essential services, he said: “This year has seen an amazing, inspiring team of runners. Sweat and determination has carried them all through the 26 miles and over the finish line. My father would have been so proud. Raising money for Leeds Jewish Welfare Board was very close to my dad’s heart.”

Chabad Lubavitch Adds Kids Club

50 people attended the launch event of Chabad Lubavitch’s latest expansion, a children’s enrichment club called CKids. The new group follows the success of CTeen, a community for Jewish teenagers to meet and take part in social activities, including group trips to Israel.

Chabad Lubavitch Leeds realised the demand for a children’s group in

its community after the boom of young professionals moving to Leeds grew, Rabbi Eli Pink, Director of Education at Lubavitch said: “We reached a point where the young professionals we were serving were getting married and having kids, but we lacked the adequate infrastructure to accommodate their needs.”

Rabbi Sholem Kalmenson and wife Devorah Leah have been chosen as the new leaders of the CKids club, Rabbi Kalmenson says: “We are so grateful for the privilege to bolster CKids and by extension – the entire Jewish community of Leeds. The opportunities are enormous and we intend to fully utilize them.”

21 years at Sukhothai Chapel Allerton

Sukhothai Chapel Allerton recently celebrated its 21st anniversary since it opened in Leeds. The beloved North Leeds restaurant has been serving authentic Thai dishes to customers since 2002.

Sukhothai has been an integral part of Chapel Allerton receiving a warm welcome from the local community since the day it opened and has since opened new branches and a refurbishment of its original restaurant. The staff expressed their gratitude for the community’s love and support and hopes for 21 more successful years to come.

Snicket’s Film Based on Jewish Legend

Children’s book writer of A Series of Unfortunate Events, Lemony Snicket, otherwise known as Daniel Handler, is writing a horror film about the famous Jewish legend The Golem of Prague.

The Frankenstein-esque legend dates back to the 16th century where, during the reign of Rudolf II, Rabbi Judah Loew created the golem (a clay figure) to protect the Jewish quarter from on-going antisemitic threat. Once the figure was brought to life he got out of control and began attacking people, he was then executed by his creator.

The film, which will be made with independent Jewish film company Leviathan Productions, will update the story to modern day, focusing on a young woman on a college campus who comes across a figure with a mysterious past.

Coronation Celebrations

The New Friendship Club recently hosted a coronation celebration in honour of King Charles III’s coronation on 16th May. The gathering was attended by 200 people with guests invited from the Jewish community who had received various investitures.

Afternoon tea style refreshments were served to fit the theme of the party and a personal message from the Chief Rabbi was

shown on screen specially for the event. The celebration was organised by Irene Collins who was joined by a team of volunteers to attend to the guests and beautifully decorate the venue with Union Jacks.

LJHA Wins Housing Award

The Leeds Jewish Housing Association recently won The Supported/ Sheltered Housing Scheme of the Year Award at the Northern Housing Awards Ceremony held in Manchester. The award was presented in response to its Cherry Tree House and Sheltered Village project on Queenshill Estate.

The judges were very impressed and said the LJHA had presented: “A scheme that reflects the close relationship between provider and its community, showing the benefits of vision and perseverance.”

In attendance to receive the award was LJHA Board Chairman, Jayne Wynick, CEO, Mark Grandfield, and Director of Operations, Craig Simons.

Mark said: ”This is a testament to many years of forethought, great efforts and drive of staff, engaged tenants, designers, contractors, and board members to have the initial vision to develop this scheme to complete our sheltered village ensuring the ultimate result fits perfectly in the surrounding neighbourhood.”

Volunteers Needed for the Chevra Kadisha

The Leeds Joint Chevra Kadisha, who oversee the Orthodox community in Leeds, are looking for more volunteers to perform this amazing tahara mitzvah.

Volunteers need to be relatively physically fit, Halachically Jewish based on the Orthodox definition and able to work with sensitivity, and particularly males under 40, as several current members are no longer able to perform tahara. Younger members of the community may wish to ask permission to perform tahara or perform kria from their parents.

As a volunteer of the Chevra Kadisha, you will be contacted as part of a WhatsApp broadcast group (where your number isn’t visible to others) whenever volunteers to perform a tahara are required. As many people have commitments, there is no obligation to volunteer unless you are able to perform the mitzvah at the time in question.

Observation of the tahara, without commitment, is the first step. This will be followed up by contact from our Administrator, or a member of our Executive, to discuss whether this is something which you feel that you can do going forwards. For more information, please contact David Jacobs, the Leeds Joint Chevra Kadisha Administrator at leedsjck@ gmail.com.

HE WAS SUPPORTED ON THE DAY BY HIS FATHER DANIEL JACOBS.

ALL PHOTOS FROM CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY.

JACK JACOBS RECENTLY CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH AT UHC

JACK FREEMAN WAS CALLED UP AT UHC.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY HELPED JACK CELEBRATE AT MOOR ALLERTON GOLF CLUB.

AND WITH HIS DAD DANIEL AND ALL THE JACOBS FAMILY.

JACKS’ FAMILY FROM LONDON EVEN CAME TO VISIT FOR THE BIG DAY!

JACK POSES WITH HIS MUM AZURE AND THE STROUD FAMILY.

Binge-Worthy

Here are our picks of binge-worthy TV, film, and reading coming your way.

Deadloch | TV Series

Amazon Prime | 2nd June

And Just Like That... | TV Series

Sky Comedy | June

Back for a second season, the follow up to Sex and the City – And Just Like That... follows Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) and Charlotte (Kristin Davis) as they navigate the journey from the complicated reality of life and friendship in their 30s to the even more complicated reality of life and friendship in their 50s. This second season sees the return of a familiar love interest…

From the wickedly funny minds of Kate McCartney and Kate McLennan comes this eight-part crime comedy. The Tasmanian town of Deadloch, a once sleepy seaside hamlet, is left reeling when a local man turns up dead on the beach. Two female detectives are thrown together to solve the case: fastidious local Senior Sergeant Dulcie Collins and a rough as guts blow in from Darwin, Senior Investigator Eddie Redcliffe along with their overeager Junior Constable Abby. As the town prepares to launch the annual arts, food and culture event – Winter Feastival – the trio have to put their differences aside and work together to find the killer.

Chain-Gang All-Stars | Book

Vintage Publishing | 13th July

New from author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, Chain-Gang All-Stars depicts a dystopic gameshow which offers prison inmates their freedom if they can defeat one another in a gladiator style battle. Watched by millions of live-stream subscribers, Loretta Thurwar and Hamra ‘Hurricane Staxx’ Stacker, teammates and lovers are the fan favourites. If all goes to plan Thurwar could be free in a few matches, but will the price be simply too high?

A Beautiful Life | Film Netflix | 1st June

Elliott, a young fisherman with an extraordinary voice, gets the chance of a lifetime when he is discovered by the successful high-profile music manager, Suzanne. Suzanne soon pairs Elliott with her estranged daughter and music producer, Lilly. On his way to becoming a star, Elliott’s struggles from the past threaten not only his big breakthrough, but also his budding love with Lilly.

OUTSTANDING

TOP MARKS

Leeds Jewish Free School is celebrating after having been awarded an Outstanding rating in a recent inspection carried out by Pikuach, which undertakes inspections for religious education at Jewish schools in the UK.

Executive Headteacher Susy Hardacre said: “We are so thrilled that the inspectors recognised the amazing qualities that all of us at LJFS see each and every single day. Our staff, students and parents ensure that we really are a school like no other, and this was just one of the things the inspectors picked up on.” The inspection report stated that: “The quality of Jewish education at Leeds Jewish Free School is outstanding.”

A key aspect of this evaluation which the inspector recognised was that LJFS welcomes not only Jewish students, but also those of other faiths and students who aren’t religious at all, leading Pikuach to state that: “The school nurtures the whole human being. The overriding message from students, teachers, parents, and past students, is that LJFS is not just a school, it is a family.”

The inspector also noted “the community feeling in the school, the respect shown to all students and the support of caring teachers.”

Cllr Dan Cohen, Chair of Governors, explained: “10 years ago a small, committed, team set out to open a Jewish high school right at the heart of our community that offered Outstanding Jewish and secular education. Our superb GCSE results over the past five years together with this inspection shows we are absolutely on the right track.

“We are so incredibly grateful to our Outstanding LK and Ivrit leader and teachers, together with our secular and pastoral staff, our families, governors and of course our students. Each and every part of our LJFS family have had a part in this amazing outcome.”

Pikuach (faith and ethos) inspection 2023

“The quality of Jewish education at Leeds Jewish Free School is outstanding.”

LJFS has received an outstanding result in a recent inspection.

Dr Ben Sinclair has recently opened up a new practice in The Avenue in addition to his already successful clinic in Birmingham. The practice is entitled Dr Finlay’s Private Practice in homage to the famed fictional Doctor of the same name, featured in the long-running BBC show Dr Finlays Casebook. Discussing the name, Dr Sinclair said: “Dr Finlay worked hard to become a trusted, dependable, and friendly family doctor whose home-visiting service and sympathetic bedside manner were much valued by the community he served. Our practice, which shares those same values, is named after him and is a tribute to him, 50 years on.”

Dr Sinclair trained in Yorkshire for 10 years and heads up a team of three Yorkshire GPs with a range of specialities, alongside everyday general practice needs. Dr Samantha Rosenburg qualified at

doctor, doctor

the University of Leeds and specialises in substance misuse. Dr Aaron Brown previously worked as a GP in York. He specialises in urology and health conditions related to the ear, nose, and throat, and feels particular empathy for patients with long-term health conditions due to his own Cystic Fibrosis diagnosis. Dr Laura Reid GP hails from Leeds and specialises in women’s health and the menopause.

A local Nutritionist will also be working at the clinic. Registered Nutritional Therapist Natasha Rosenburg specialises in the impact that gut health can have on eczema and acne, low energy, weight gain, IBS, insomnia, and Long COVID.

Dr Sinclair is also a leading expert in Long COVID, after suffering from the condition subsequent to catching COVID-19 during his part-time work as a prison doctor. After making a full recovery, he drew on his own experience of the illness to pioneer Britain’s first-ever specialist Online Clinic for those suffering from Long COVID. This expertise will be an integral part of the new clinic: “Helping patients with much-needed COVID and Long COVID will also be part of the new service, which launches at a time when UK numbers of Long COVID sufferers are rising, and Yorkshire’s are above the national average.

“Over 2 million people in the UK have Long COVID. In Yorkshire, in the four weeks to 1st May this year, 194,000 people reported long-lasting effects of COVID-19 infection, according to the

Office for National Statistics figures. This Yorkshire figure represents 3.7% percent of the population, a higher rate than the UK average of 3.1%. I predict that the future impact on the regional workforce and local economy in Yorkshire will be considerable next year.”

The clinic will be offering patients not just traditional GP services, but half hour long in-person appointments, which will discuss not only acute issues but will also take a holistic approach in discussing all aspects of your health. The team will also be able to provide the flexibility of home visits and online appointments alongside blood tests and private referrals and will be working with four dedicated online psychologists.

Drfinlays.co.uk

A new private GP clinic has just opened up in LS17, providing expertise in a range of areas.

Heart of the Community

On behalf of The Robert Davidson Trust, five members of the community took part in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, raising over £15,000 for motor neurone disease and other terminal illnesses.

Five runners from north Leeds raised £15,000 and counting for The Robert Davidson Trust. Elliot Jackson, Solos Psarias, Carolyn Abrahams, Andrew Saffer, and Laura Ross all completed the marathon named on behalf of Leeds Rhinos rugby player, Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019.

Running for a cause close to their hearts, The Robert Davidson Trust is a charity offering financial support to young couples and families who have been affected by life

threatening and terminal illnesses.

Robert Davidson was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2015, at the age of 33. A sports fanatic, Robert used to go to the gym four times a week with his wife Sariet and loved playing squash and football. Despite the loss of mobility in his limbs, and no longer being able to speak, Robert used his wheelchair and computer to continue working as a lawyer and remain socially active. He sadly passed away in December 2016, after fighting the illness

RUNNING FOR ROBERT NEW GIRL

Sinai Synagogue appoints a new Cantor, Rachel Weston, making her the first female Cantor outside of London.

now able and qualified to take on all the aspects of congregational leadership that would be expected of any Rabbi.

with great courage, dignity, and humour. The Robert Davidson Trust aims to fulfil Robert’s enduring wish to help other young couples and families going through similar circumstances and provide financial support to those who need it the most.

cantorial music, a learning disabilities and mental health support worker, teacher, scholar of our holy texts, and a seeker of sacred communities both in synagogues and beyond the walls of institutions.

After a rigorous recruitment process, Sinai Synagogue is delighted to announce that Cantor Rachel Weston will be joining its community this summer. In taking up the post at Sinai, Rachel will be the first female Cantor based outside of London and the first working as the sole leader for a UK Reform congregation.

Rachel has undergone five years of training at the prestigious Hebrew Union College in New York. As a Cantor she is

The new recruit also brings a wealth of experience from her previous work as a social care worker, and is already a renowned singer and performer, with an extensive repertoire that includes Jewish and Yiddish folk music.

Cantor Rachel introduced herself to the community at the Sinai AGM, saying: "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the Sinai community this summer. In many ways coming to Sinai is the culmination of my life journey; I have held many identities over the years as a singer of Yiddish and

“My religious and pastoral training at HUC has prepared me to lead in the Jewish community, but as a Cantor my work has a special orientation towards finding community through song. My work is grounded in seeking after music, scholarship, beauty, and deeper compassion. I will bring all these parts of myself into this community and am so grateful for the opportunity to learn, pray, and work together.”

Rachel will be working alongside Becky Teiger, Community Director at Sinai, she says: “Rachel’s appointment couldn’t come at a better time for us. We’re already attracting lots of new families to Sinai, as well as many looking to begin or deepen their connections to Judaism. Rachel’s warmth, wisdom and passion for Jewish ritual, music and community can only strengthen us on this journey and I am so excited to be collaborating with her!”

Razing the Roof

It was a packed-out Engine Shed in Wetherby for the LJHA (Leeds Jewish Housing Association) new homes fundraiser with Israeli writer and actor Lior Raz.

Best known for his role of Doron in Fauda, Lior Raz brought the house down in a recent LJHA event, but with no grenades needed.

Interviewed by Emma Portugal, herself having been raised on the Queenshill Estate, Raz talked about his own relatively poor upbringing, and his time in the IDF leading to his career path in to acting. Born in Ma'ale Adumim, his parents immigrated to Israel from Iraq and Algeria. His father served in Israel in Shayetet 13 and Shin Bet and his mother was a teacher. Raz grew up speaking Hebrew and also Arabic with workers at his father's plant nursery.

After school, he enlisted in the IDF and became a commando in undercover

counter-terrorism unit Sayeret Duvdevan where inspiration for Fauda came from. He talked openly about his unit days, and the tragedy of the loss of his then girlfriend, killed in Jerusalem by a Palestinian Arab.

In 1993, after his military service, Raz moved to the US, becoming Arnold Schwarzenegger's bodyguard: “For me it was the most glamorous thing, to be the watchdog of Schwarzenegger.” Having been inspired by actors like De Niro, he returned to Israel at age 24 and studied at Nissan Nativ Drama School in Tel Aviv for an acting career which blossomed late.

In his early acting years, Raz acted in various plays and films, but had been working with friend and journalist Avi

Issacharoff on what has become the critically acclaimed political thriller television series Fauda, a reflection on his military service, in which Raz stars as Doron Kabilio, the commander of an undercover counterterrorism Mista'arvim unit.

The audience wanted to know more about Fauda, with questions from how the show has affected Middle Eastern politics, how popular the show has become around the world, to even how many cigarettes his character goes through. “It looks like I smoke 24 hours a day on the show, but actually I don’t smoke at all!” Raz talked about the hard sell of when he and Avi tried to find a TV station to take it on, until a contact within a marketing department led to the break. He even had to audition for the part he’d written for himself: “They wanted an A-lister to play the lead role so they could sell it on, I nearly told them to stick it but thought no, I’ll audition!”

Raz also discussed other roles. He co-

wrote and starred in another Netflix success Hit & Run and plays a gay bus driver in an upcoming show. He also discussed how he sold his production company Faraway Road in 2021.

A funny, engaging, and inspirational guy with a truly explosive life, it was a brilliant evening and well organised by the LJHA team.

A word from LJHA...

The event was only confirmed by Lior during Pesach, making it record-breaking in organising a fundraising event from scratch in five weeks! It was so popular that it did not even get to the stage of being advertised publicly, and within hours was sold out.

Meirav Sasson, who was appointed as the Head of the appeal for the duration of this campaign, spoke about how this event took a lot of work and could not have come to life without the small, yet mighty, committee of volunteers.

Lior came especially to Leeds and back in 48 hours, thanks to the generosity of four donors: Danny Rivlin, Daniel Lee, Ian Barnett and Four-Leaf Clover Classic Cars.

Hosted by Film Yorkshire’s Sam Warner, the event was the first fundraising experience for LJHA, and to many, it was an introduction to the work of LJHA, which has been carried out quietly for 70 years.

Jayne Wynick, Chair of LJHA Board, gave an inspirational appeal, asking the audience to stand if they know people affected by LJHA’s work - the whole room stood, showing the strong impact of LJHA, and the pride in its achievements.

Lior shared his life story alongside the journey that he went through as a co-writer of Fauda. His inspirational story was filled with humour and banter. In conversation with Lior was Emma Portugal, a former resident of LJHA, and together, Lior and Emma made the evening both entertaining and successful.

Over the past three years, LJHA have completed the biggest development in its 70-year history, building 85 flats for

both younger and older members of our community. The final piece of the jigsaw is to create 28 homes for families to both grow and flourish. Our community is in dire need of family housing. For families who want to live within the Jewish community, it is becoming increasingly difficult due to the high property prices in North Leeds. The waiting time for a social housing family home is 10-15 years. Previously, LJHA received government grants to build new homes to replace old ones. That has changed due to government policy changes, and LJHA now needs to fund the gap on their own for phase two. There is a shortfall of £50,000 per house and building can only commence once the full amount of the project is in place.

Mark Grandfield, LJHA CEO said: “LJHA has been working for 70 years to enable every Jewish family to have a home within our community. Throughout this time, we have never asked the community to financially support our work. We now need the community to support us. We cannot do this without your support.”

Meirav added: “I have a lot of faith in our community and know that in the same way that the community stepped up to build the MAZCC and The ZONE, they will support this community asset and make sure that the next 70 years of Jewish housing are secured. So, when I contact you, please remember that this is for the future of our community and your future generations.”

To donate call Meirav on 0773 949 0579

LIOR MEETS SPONSORS AND GUESTS INCLUDING DANIEL LEE AND DANNY RIVLIN

JAYNE WYNICK, CHAIR OF LJHA BOARD IMPRESSES LIOR WITH A COPY OF JLIFE

OKSANA PAKON MARRIED JOEL BERG ON 31ST MARCH 2023.

THE CEREMONY TOOK PLACE IN SUNNY JAFFA, TEL AVIV.

VOLUNTEERS PREPARED THE BISCUIT BASE OF THE CHEESECAKE…

ETZ CHAIM SYNAGOGUE HOSTED A CHEESECAKE BAKE AND LEARN SESSION FOR SHAVUOT!

BEFORE PATIENTLY WAITING FOR THE DELICIOUS CHEESECAKE TO BAKE.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BROWN

PHOTO: CLAIRE BROWN

PHOTO: CLAIRE BROWN

PHOTO: TOM SAIMON

PHOTO: TOM SAIMON

LAST APARTMENT REMAINING

Nail clipping

Medication administration

Post operative checks

2nd/3rd vaccinations

Blood pressure checks

Blood sampling (if vet advised that no check-up required) Anal gland expression

Re-bandaging

De-matting

*Visit fees may not be covered by your pet insurance policy

and registered nurses are highly motivated and can be booked to give advice on all aspects of pet care and offer you services such as micro-chipping, second vaccination, medication administration, nail clipping, post-operative appointments and bandage management. Our range of nurse services is extensive and is constantly expanding. We now offer a range of veterinary nurse appointments in the comfort of clients’ own homes through our Community Nursing Service. Ask a member of our team for more information.

Pet travel and export service – If you are considering travelling abroad with your pet, we have a PETS team ready to help you with the various procedures required.

To find out more about us, our staff and our approach to veterinary treatment, visit our website www.hollyhousevets.co.uk or refer to the inserts contained within this client pack

Please speak to a member of our team if you feel your pet would benefit from a nurse home visit

BACK IN BUSINESS

Returning to live theatre for the first time in nearly 20 years, Nigel Pivaro admits: “There’s a slight hint of apprehension.” But the Coronation Street legend is thrilled to be starring in the 2022/2023 tour of Roddy Doyle’s The Commitments at the Grand Theatre this month, enthusing: “What’s not to love about it? It’s such an iconic show and I’ve always loved the story and the music. It means I get to spend nine months going up and down the country, and I’ll get to stretch my acting muscles again on stage.”

Having worked mainly as a journalist for the past 15 years, the man who came to fame as Terry Duckworth in the beloved soap hasn’t been on stage since 2003.

Nigel plays Da, the father of aspiring Irish music manager Jimmy Rabitte. Based on Doyle’s 1987 bestselling novel and Alan Parker’s hugely popular 1991 film adaptation, it revolves around workingclass Jimmy’s bid to transform a bunch of amateur musicians into Dublin’s finest-ever soul band, much to his father’s dismay.

“Da provides the dramatic tension,” Nigel says of his character. “There’s lots of friction between Jimmy and the members of the band, but the constant tension in the narrative is between him and his Da. The latter thinks his music is a load of rubbish because it’s not Elvis, basically.”

The show is packed with great tunes like Try A Little Tenderness, In The Midnight Hour, I Heard It Through The Grapevine, and Mustang Sally. Much of the singing is left to the younger cast members. But Nigel, 62, says: “I get to sing a few bars of Elvis rather than the old Motown and Stax classics. That’s probably just as well really.”

The Manchester-born actor studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, made his stage debut in Short Of Mutiny in 1983 and that same year landed the role of bad boy Duckworth in Corrie. He left the soap five years later but returned on a regular basis until 2012.

“It was so much fun behind the scenes, especially with screen

parents Bill Tarmey and Liz Dawn, and Brian Mosley, who played Alf Roberts. He was so funny off-set. He’d always try and make you corpse when you were waiting to go on. He’d stuff a grape up his nose and daft stuff like that. He was nothing like his stickin-the-mud character.”

Over the years Pivaro has also done a lot of stage work and cites ground-breaking drama Just Frank, about an AIDS sufferer, at the Theatre Royal Stratford East as a personal favourite.

Another theatrical highlight was winning the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 1st award for No Further Cause For Concern, of which he says. “That’s probably the thing I’m most proud of. I found the play myself, put on a reading at Stratford, got the money together to put it on in Wales, Edinburgh and then London, and it was so well received.”

His decision to embark on a second career as a journalist at age 39 might have surprised his fans. “I’d always been intrigued by journalism and good journalists, and interested in history and politics.” After finishing a postgraduate course, he worked for regional papers and now freelances for national publications as well as making documentaries for the BBC.

A return to acting wasn’t on the cards but in 2019 Nigel bumped into writer Jim Cartwright who pushed him to returm. He secured representation, scored some

auditions, and did plays on BBC Radio 4, including The Corrupted opposite Toby Jones.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he says of doing radio work, “and it was a great reintroduction into acting. From there I did a few adverts and a lot of voiceovers. I really started to believe in myself again as an actor.”

In 2022 Nigel worked with the Alevai Jewish Women’s Group to create a unique North Manchester Yiddish Dictionary and an accompanying short film, Alevai, directed by Salford born film maker, Rafe Conn screened at the Manchester Jewish Museum with a live five-piece klezmer band, Klezmorim. The short film also uncovered the hardships and antisemitism faced by the women and their families,

But now Nigel is back on stage in an all-new production of a show that originally opened in the West End in 2013 before embarking on a countrywide tour three years later. The London production garnered such rave reviews as “Wonderfully funny and touching” from The Daily Telegraph and “A sweet-soul, solid-gold, fivestar blast” from The Sunday Times.

The actor is modest about starring in the new tour, saying: “The show, the story and the music are the real stars. And the music is so beloved by people who grew up with it and younger people who have been introduced to it over the years.

“Theatres full of happy punters who are having a rollicking night out and really getting into the show, letting themselves go with the music, and being able to forge their troubles, at least for a couple of hours, I’m sure they’ll go away feeling uplifted.”

Leedsheritagetheatres.com

From Corrie to The Commitments, and some Yiddish in between, Nigel Pivaro will tread the boards at Leeds Grand Theatre this month.

New On the Block

Check out these fresh Leeds shops, bars, and restaurants for you to explore.

Mythos | Chapel Allerton

Currently standing with one chain open in Woodhouse, Mythos, a Greek bar and grill, is opening another branch in Chapel Allerton early this summer. Serving what has been deemed the UK’s best kebab, otherwise known as Yeeros; Mythos already has a strong fan following with more expected from this new venture.

On Facebook @mythosuk

The Foundation Tap Room | Adel

From the beloved Meanwood Brewery is a new venue currently under works in Adel, The Foundation. Opening later this year the journey of the new venue is well documented on its Facebook page, @The

Blue Rinse | Leeds City Centre

Vintage clothing brand Blue Rinse first came to Leeds in 1997, 26 years later another branch has recently opened in the Merrion Centre. The founders of Blue Rinse, brothers Mick and Jeff Barnett, have a long history in vintage clothing including previously working with renowned brand Urban Outfitters to develop reworked and vintage clothing lines like their own brand. Blue Rinse is a model example of upcycling clothing to create cutting edge fashion. Bluerinsevintage.co.uk

El Greco | Headingley

Recently opened, El Greco brings authentic Greek dishes to Leeds with high quality ingredients and a delicious twist. The stylish and subtle furnishings are complimented by the large front glass window, providing excellent ambience while guests eat. El Greco prides itself on transforming classic Greek dishes such as Moussaka, Kebab, Gyros, and Mezzes. With easy parking and outside dining, you can book online or pop in at West Park opposite the Village Hotel. Elgrecoleeds.co.uk

The Savvy Baker Fuelled | Seacroft

Sour Cherry | Leeds City Centre

The Manchester-based jewellery shop has recently opened a second branch in Leeds Corn Exchange. The original Sour Cherry resides in Affleck’s Palace in Manchester’s Northern Quarter and sells both quirky statement jewellery and timeless classic pieces. Always on top of the trends, there is something for everyone at Sour Cherry. Sourcherry.co.uk

Pandemic success story

The Savvy Baker is opening its newest branch inside Ultra Flex Gym. You heard it right, the bakery inside the gym will be selling new gym-related bakes and drinks such as energy balls, low carb treats, protein brownies, protein iced coffee’s and some of its original treats for cheat days.

Thesavvybaker.co.uk

Sancerre Restaurant | Adel

After undergoing a £2 million conversion from an old library building, new restaurant, Sancerre, recently opened at the end of May. Showcasing a large outdoor terrace in time for summer, the restaurant and bar serves decadent European cuisine with a contemporary twist. Sancerre’s Restaurant will also offer lunches, light bites, and afternoon teas during the day.

Sancerrerestaurant.co.uk

Using over 20 years' detailed knowledge and experience, I will give you the ‘inside track’ on getting the best out of your estate agent, to ensure you achieve a superb outcome at no extra cost. I will:

• Maximise the true value of your home

• Capitalise on missed marketing angles

• Advise who is the right estate agent and why

• Proactively manage the entire process on your behalf

• Experienced insight and keeping you informed at every step

• Safeguard any offer by ensuring you only deal with a genuine purchaser

• My fee is paid out of the standard estate agent's commission

"The practical, pragmatic approach that Alex offers, clearly based upon his market knowledge, has been invaluable to me achieving a good sale of my property. I wholeheartedly recommend engaging with Alex. It's the only sensible thing to do if you're buying or selling".

Bishop Monkton

225 GLOWING CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

£800k

BEST RESULT ABOVE GUIDE PRICE

100%

Google reviews

Heart of the Community

NEW FACES

LJRC has appointed two new community engagement offcers,thankstonationallotteryfunding.

In early 2020, the National Lottery Community Fund awarded the LJRC a grant to enable it to work with organisations to create spaces for new volunteers. Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic delayed this work, but now the council can take this project forward.

Last month, two part-time community engagement officers – Suzanne Benjamin and Alan Benstock – were appointed. Both posts are for two-years and funded by the National Lottery which has meant there has been no need for community money is being used to pay these salaries.

Suzanne and Alan will be working together at creating a structure for finding, locating, and supporting volunteers from our community whether they be volunteering for one hour or twenty hours

GREEN THINKING

in a week; during the day or the evening; online or in person. For as we know “every little helps!"

Community Engagement Officer

Suzanne, who will be focussing engaging with and supporting organisations inside the Leeds Jewish community, says of the challenge ahead: “I am looking forward to meeting and working with members of our community who can help ensure through volunteering that organisations which support and enrich the Leeds Jewish Community continue to thrive and grow.”

Alan, who as Development and Online Engagement officer will be working with organisations outside the Leeds Jewish community to seek and promote opportunities as well as provide online events, says: “We learnt a lot from how the

community responded to the pandemic and I will be taking forward many of the ideas and solutions we used over the past three years to help more of the community get involved”.

LJRC Chief Operations Officer Susie Gordon, who is spearheading the project, reminds everyone that “there are always opportunities for everyone to join in and help the community. It does not matter what you are good at, there will be something to suit you. The more of us who set up, the bigger help we will all be.”

To find out more or to help with this project, Suzanne and Alan can be contacted by email: info@ljrc.org

Alwoodley 2030: Climate Action Hub is a new, very local group of people who are taking communitydriven approaches to addressing three major intersecting challenges of our time: climate breakdown, biodiversity loss, and increasing inequity. This is one of several local community hubs that are part of the wider Climate Action Leeds initiative, Alwoodley 2030 is one of several local climate action hubs across the city. Importantly, Alwoodley 2030 is a nonpolitical group and is highly inclusive. Alwoodley ward is key to helping

Leeds meet its zero-carbon ambition as it consumes more energy and food, and as a result, has higher emissions, than most of the other wards in the city. This means that if we are aggressive in our local community – by making our homes more energy efficient and shifting away from fossil fuels, changing the way we consume and dispose of food, and changing the way we travel, we can make a significant difference to helping the city reach its target. Some of these challenges are very complex, and some really aren’t. The best part is that local action is incredibly positive, rewarding and connects us with amazing people who care about our local community and all living beings within it. Below are some of the projects the organisation is working on:

Developing a sustainable food culture:

• Community Orchards. Community Veg Growing, Community Composting. Next Meeting 6th June

Promoting healthy, active local travel:

• Active Travel Party as part of Leeds 2023 celebrations – 9th July at the King Lane Park and Ride. Also look out for the Campaign on Air Pollution, Congestion and the School Run.

Making our homes healthier and more energy efficient

• Home Retrofit Workshop for Homeowners on 13th June

• Workshop for tradespeople on pathways for gaining green construction/retrofit skills on 13th June.

Nature Recovery

• Putting the Woods Back in Alwoodley: Street Tree Planting and Woodland Creation (Next meeting to be confirmed)

• Developing a Nature Recovery Network. We aim to convene all existing naturebased organisations to come up with a local strategy to restore our local natural habitat.

The group has also welcome new Steering Committee members: Susie Gordon (Chair), Usama Ahmed, Cath Taylor, Liz Watson, Stephanie Clark, Paul Magnall, Simon Philips and Cherry Tucker.

To join in on any of these projects or attend any events, please keep an eye on the Facebook group at Facebook.com/groups/ alwoodley2030. The Hub Worker for the project is Jennifer Walper Roberts who is contactable at info@alwoodley2030.org.

DRINK UP!

Catch up with the latest UK Israel Business Breakfast, which featured an interview with Simon Gray, CEO of Boost Drinks.

The latest UK Israel Business Breakfast kicked off with a word from Colin Glass, OBE, who detailed recent visits to Leeds from Israeli captains of industry: “Last week, the NHSA (Northern Health Science Alliance) hosted a delegation from Israel in Leeds as part of the International Health Tech R&D and Pilot Programme. The aim is for the UK to be the innovation development partner of choice, with the NHS being the best place in the world to trial and test products at scale. This partnership with the Israeli Innovation Authority, supported by the UK Israel Tech Hub is leading the way for engaging at scale with companies at the forefront of life science globally.”

The meeting then continued with an

interview with Simon Gray, CEO of Boost Drinks. On 5th December 2022 Boost Drinks Holdings was acquired by A.G. Barr, which Simon discussed: “The situation we’ve got is that we’ve been bought 100% outright. There is a two-year period which there are performance clauses. As long as we’re doing right by numbers then the operation is 100% ours. There are certain matters for the board for anything that sits outside of the two-year plan; it’s not that they won’t support it, it’s just that they want to understand it.”

The questions then turned to the best and worse advice that Simon had ever received in his career: “One of the best bits of advice came from Steve Armstrong early on, because we had some challenges with the brand. It was: ‘Don’t be scared.’ And I think we tried from day one to respect the competition and respect the market, but I think when you do the right thing – with brand in particular – there’s nothing more important to the brand than trademark protection and having strong advisors there. In terms of the worst advice, you get plenty of that. I’m a strong believer in gut instinct.

We get data as most businesses do, but I think you need a barometer. Everybody has an opinion, but some of the advice you get shouldn’t be believed.”

With both consumers and legislation increasingly focused on environmental concerns, Simon was asked how the business was tackling those expectations: “Sustainability is not a new thing. It’s become more visible and more talked about, but we’ve been doing a lot of things over the years, looking at where packaging and ingredients are sourced from; a lot has been going on in the background already. In the press recently there’s been information about the Deposit Return Scheme (which is in place in Scotland and will be implemented across the UK by 2025), which from an environmental perspective is absolutely the way forward. This is a journey we’re all on. We talk internally about people, planet, profit, and we try to get that balance where we can, but there’s also all sorts of dynamics at play and trying to do things now – with inflation where it is – is really challenging. It doesn’t mean the journey’s wrong, it’s just not a straight line.”

CHAI GAVE US OUR MUMMY BACK

“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, I just didn’t know what to do. I had my surgery in Israel as both mine and my husband’s families live there. Then I had a big decision to make - where would I have my treatment? How could I uproot my husband and girls? But equally, how would I get through my chemotherapy here without our families’ support?

Then my oncologist told me about Chai. They have been amazing –I truly believe there is nothing like it in the world. Being able to rely on Chai’s all-encompassing support gave me the confidence to come home to my husband and girls.

Thanks to Chai, we’re together as a family again”

GIST GET THE

GistMD is a personalised digital health interventions platform that empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey. The platform provides patients with highly personalised education content and engagement tools, to help close gaps in care and improve patient engagement. One of the key features of GistMD is its personalised content, which is tailored to factor in the patient’s demographic, linguistic, medical, pre-conditions, medication, cultural, and behavioural factors, in order to provide information about medical conditions and treatments in an accessible and understandable way.

Noam Kalina, Chief Business Officer of GistMD, explained: “We believe that in order for a patient to be driven into action, they must first understand. We do this in a very personalised manner.

We offer patient engagement tools, allowing them to book an appointment with a doctor or read more about their condition. The end goal of all of this is to drive the patient into action.”

For example, if you show a Black child in America a video with only white patients in it, they will shut off. Then we offer patient engagement tools, allowing them to book an appointment with a doctor or read more about their condition. The end goal of all of this is to drive the patient into action.”

Noam recently visited Leeds and Manchester with the hope of expanding the technology to patients in the UK: “The

visit to Leeds was part of an on-going application for a joint venture with the Israeli Innovation Authority and the NHSA (Northern Health Science Alliance). After a few rounds of consideration, we’ve been shortlisted by the NHSA and we were invited to come to meet them and go into more in-depth details of what we can do together and to start planning the development stage of the product we’ll do together.”

Though none of the group had visited Leeds before, the city immediately made an impression: “This was our first time visiting and we fell in love with the area. We loved the people and the countryside. I don’t know if we brought the sun over from Israel but it was actually sunny while we were there! My wife also has relatives in Leeds, so I reached out to them, and on one of the days we were there, they arranged a big meeting with several key people from the Jewish community. Colin Glass was one of them. He’s a tube of dynamite. Everyone knows him, he has a lot of will to help and a lot of energy.

“He also took us to the community’s Yom HaShoah service, as his guests. It was very impressive and powerful. Before the ceremony he took us on a two hour trip around Leeds and took us to the park and to see the lake. We met a lot of welcoming people thanks to Colin and thanks to the family of my wife, Michelle and Ivan Levey. We made some great business connections and overall it was an amazing trip.”

Accountants

Corporation Tax

One of the recent budget headlines concerned the main rate of Corporation Tax, which has risen from 19% to 25%, although the current 19% rate will still apply if your profits are £50,000 or less. Profits between £50,000 – £250,000 will be subjected to a new “hybrid” or tapered rate between 19% to 25%.

It is also worth considering that if you own more than one company, these thresholds will be spread between the number of companies that you own. Therefore, for two “associated” companies, the £50,000 threshold would reduce to £25,000 per company.

On a Budget FINANCE

The rules around what classes as an “associated company” is quite involved. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have more than one company as there may be some tax planning, we can help you with. Please note that dormant and holding companies (with no trading activity) are exempt.

Dividends

At the Autumn Budget 2021, the government announced that the rate of Income Tax applicable to dividend income would increase by 1.25 percentage points to 8.75% for the ordinary rate, 33.75% for the upper rate and 39.35% for the additional rate from April 2022.

Furthermore, from 2023/24 the tax-free dividend allowance is also set for change. From 6th April 2023 the dividend tax free allowance fell from £2,000 to £1,000. And from 6th April 2024 it reduces further to £500.

Capital gains

As you may know, capital gains is a tax we all pay if we sell, give away, exchange, or otherwise dispose of an asset and make a profit or ‘gain’. This includes the sale of rental properties.

Each individual has always had an annual capital gains tax-free allowance, known as your annual exemption. In 2022/23, the annual exemption was £12,300, which allowed you to make gains on disposal of investments of up to £12,300 tax free.

However, following the recent budget, the annual exemption is set to change going forward:

• In 2023/24, it fell to £6,000.

• In 2024/25, the annual exemption is expected to drop to £3,000 (although this is not yet confirmed).

Leonandcompany.co.uk

GIVE THANKS

UK Israel Business

Blacks Solicitors

Blacks Solicitors is a 28-partner law firm with over 190 employees. The firm provides a wide range of legal services to commercial and private clients across the UK and continues to go from strength to strength.

Operating from its Head Office at City Point in Leeds, Blacks believes in delivering a first-class service to all of its clients, while providing expert advice at realistic rates. To achieve this, Blacks takes time to get to know and understand its clients, building long-term relationships to deliver the best results possible.

Blacks regularly provides advice to owner-managed businesses and high net worth individuals on: Corporate & Commercial Law; Intellectual Property; Data Protection; Employment Law; Commercial Property; Leasehold Enfranchisement; Planning Law; Residential and Buy to Let / Conveyancing; Commercial and Civil Dispute Resolution / Litigation; Trusts, Wills & Estates; and Family Law.

In addition, Blacks also acts for clients

across a range of niche sectors including: Healthcare; Energy; Telecoms; Education; Leisure & Hospitality (including Holiday & Home Parks and Hotels); Sport; and Music Law.

Boost Drinks

Boost Drinks is a Leeds-based functional drinks brand founded by CEO Simon Gray in 2001. Since the launch Boost Drinks’ purpose has been to Energise Everybody in Everyway, and turns over £70 million, and within independent retailing Boost Drinks is now the third largest stimulation energy brand, the second largest Sport drinks brand and the second largest and fastest growing 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.

Mitchell Wealth Management Ltd

Mitchell Wealth Management Ltd aims to help clients build and protect their savings and investments tax efficiently.

This award-winning 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

Chef Works

With over four decades in the industry, Chef Works has grown to encompass two leading international brands in the design, manufacture and distribution of hospitality uniforms in over 80 countries across the globe. Providing leading hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and kitchens with innovative, award-winning uniforms at competitive pricing, you will find leading chefs and baristas wearing Chef Works designs from Tel Aviv to Tokyo.

Chefworks.co.uk

thanks all of its sponsors and partners who make its meetings possible.

DOWN TO BUSINESS

Leeds Hosts Business Trip

Five Israel-based tech companies recently visited Leeds to support the Jewish industry in Leeds and showcase its work.

One of the five was Taliaz, an AI-driven mental health platform supporting clients to better assess, manage, and improve prescribing precision for a faster patient recovery; Mindlife UK, an Israel founded company which now has a base in the UK, was also in attendance, it has paved the way for computerised applications for mental health and wellbeing.

The visit included a welcoming Kosher meal and a tour of Leeds’ Jewish community where the guests took in the UHC’s Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Memorial) service.

Discovery into Helping Alzheimer’s

Israeli researchers have found a reason why women with Alzheimer’s disease experience faster cognitive deterioration than men, leading to new developments in treating the disease.

Women suffering from Alzheimer’s have been found to generationally inherit a specific molecular mechanism from their mothers wherein their tRNA, (a part of the cell which helps build proteins) is severely depleted in the brain nuclei.

Due to this discovery scientists may be able to develop new solutions via RNAbased therapies for patients with the disease.

Professor Hermona Soreq, the brain gene expert at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem who led the study says: “Our research presents a significant contribution to the existing body of Alzheimer’s research, underscoring crucial distinctions not only in disease progression but also in treatment response.”

New Newsroom in Leeds

Channel 4 has become the first prime-time news programme to co-present from two locations after setting up a new newsroom on Leeds’ Brewery Wharf near the Royal Armouries Museum.

Plans to move to Leeds have been in action since 2019 where for the duration of 2022 broadcast was delivered in Leeds from a temporary studio. Recently, its full-time studio has been unveiled.

Esme Wren, Editor of Channel 4 News, said: “We’re delighted to finally be bringing it [the studio] to life as we significantly

A round up of the latest local business and UK Israel trade news.

expand our presence across the UK. With two national newsrooms to deliver the daily bulletin, this new venture is a visible investment in the region, marking our clear commitment to storytelling from across the country.”

The AI Will See You Now

Supported by ChatGPT’s technological advances, Kahun is a chatbot programme which tracks patients’ symptoms and helps GP’s make their diagnosis. The AI improved system will save time and help doctors diagnose patients, especially with rare conditions which are regularly overlooked due to human error.

The Tel Aviv-based company already used AI to carry out question and answer sessions with patients. But now, the AI service is used in combination with its own vast medical database, allowing patients to converse and explain their symptoms in their own terms instead of completing a multiple-choice questionnaire.

The company stresses AI does not replace the input and medical expertise of a doctor; its purpose is to save time by collecting information from the patient and linking doctors to the appropriate medical journals describing their estimated condition.

Kahun is currently testing the ChatGPTenhanced version of its programme. However, its original XA Clinical Assessment tool has already been used in 250,000 doctor/patient sessions in the US.

Fresh for Longer

It’s a shared experience to find your fruit and veg has gone mouldy before you can eat it; Israeli tech start-up Sufresca has decided to tackle this issue. Most fresh produce is sprayed with a preserving wax or wrapped in plastic, but Sufreca has developed a spray which is a natural alternative to both.

The edible coating replaces plastic packaging and prolongs the vegetable’s shelf life by days out of the fridge or weeks longer inside. The coating is made from entirely natural materials which are taste and texture-less as it’s less than a thousandth of a millimetre thin.

Given that last year France banned the use of plastic packaging for a variety of fruit

and vegetables and Spain plan to do the same this year, Sufresca’s product could not be timelier. Its easy application means no new equipment is needed to coat the produce, unlike its competitor Apeel, and can even be applied without machinery in developing countries.

7,000 take Virtual Trip to Auschwitz

Three Haredi women made it their mission to create a film exploring Auschwitz for Jews who cannot make the journey to Poland.

Miriam Cohen, Chani Kopolowitz, and Yuti Neiman have been making Kosher Movies – Jewish films with an educational message – together for over ten years. During the pandemic they were given access to Auschwitz for three days to capture a virtual reality (VR) film which allows its viewers to look around the site wearing VR headsets.

The film, Triumph of the Spirit, features Rabbi Yisrael Goldwasser, leading Holocaust Lecturer and Researcher, guiding the viewer through the museum and its grounds explaining their historical relevance to Jewish culture.

The film, paired with 200 VR headsets is available to groups across Israel and can also be viewed daily in Jerusalem.

Improved Hydration

Water is vital to our health yet most of us don’t drink our recommended eight glasses a day. But Tel Aviv-based smart packaging company impacX has an innovative solution. Its smart water bottle has a cap which measures the liquid level and blinks as a hydration reminder.

The smart bottle works in combination with the mobile app Water.io to send you push notification reminders on your phone to drink more water. To make sure you reach your water drinking goals for the day, the light up cap will register green if you are on track to reach your target or red if you are behind.

ImpacX has launched the smart bottle in Israel to a positive response especially from those with medical problems, pregnant women, and sports players. With positive feedback it plans to expand its reach.

Heart of the

Community

MAKING A ROYAL DIFFERENCE

Leeds hairdresser, Jeremy Farber, has received royal recognition for his services to charity.

An award-winning hairdresser was recognised for his services to charity at Buckingham Palace in May.

Jeremy Farber, who is the Founder and Owner of Headfirst hair salon in Alwoodley, North Leeds, was invited by the King to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

Jeremy said: “I’m absolutely honoured and privileged to have been recognised for my contributions to charity through creative fundraising events – particularly as all attendees must receive nominations to attend. It’s not every day you’re invited to meet with royalty in recognition of your work, and the fact that the garden party is taking place just days after the King’s coronation makes it extra special!

“It was amazing to have met people from all other walks of life and celebrating the contributions that they have made to their own communities.”

Each year, Jeremy organises a fundraiser for a different charity. He has organised everything from sponsored waxing to family

fun days and even turned his salon into a creperie for the day, all in the name of charity. However, he’s been unable to do this over the last few years owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jeremy added: “The community in Alwoodley is very supportive when we organise charity events, and each year I look forward to coming up with a new idea to raise money for a great cause. It’s been really difficult for businesses likes ours over the last few years, but it’s been great to see people returning to a normal way of life –and I encourage people to continue supporting their local shops and communities.

“In the past we’ve raised enough funds to send a little boy to Disneyland Florida with his parents, and for a young man from the local area to have surgery to help with a heart defect. I’m now planning for my next fundraiser where I'll be doing an open-water swim to raise money for children’s diabetes.”

Jeremy’s career, which spans over 50 years, began at the age of 14 in

Manchester when he started shampooing hair as an apprentice to ‘the master hairdresser of his day’, Pierre Alexandre. He has since gone on to open his own successful salon which he has been running for 35 years, produced many successful hairdressers and received recognition for his quality of education and training.

Throughout his career, Jeremy has gained experience in salons across the world and has won several awards including Best Community Salon, Best UK Salon Experience, and Yorkshire Evening Post’s Salon of the Year, among others.

Electric Dreams

To date, electric cars have played towards energy efficiency and a unique driving experience for short range driving for our commute, a trip to the supermarket, or picking the kids up from school. In fact, Car Analytics reports 68% of us commute by car, and drive just 20 miles a day on average in the UK, so, making the switch to an electric car with a decent range like the Lexus RZe which has a range of 251 to 271 miles is more than enough to cover those daily miles with just one charge per week.

When driving an electric car for the first time, it’s hard not to notice its smooth handling and peaceful silence. But despite this and knowing it’s a more sustainable alternative, many of us are still scared to make the switch, with concerns about charging, charge points and initial costs.

But the EV scene is closing the gap between petrol and electric cars, getting more popular each year, not least due to battery efficiency.

Firstly, because batteries are being manufactured smaller, they can offer higher range. The first popular cars on the market back in 2012, the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Model S, both had an average range of 150 miles, now in 2023 we’re seeing plenty with double the range and beyond.

Secondly, new advances in EV design have adapted for better battery temperature management, meaning better battery life.

Hotter climates were wearing down battery life faster, but now, with built in cooling mechanisms, the battery’s charge and longevity is improved.

Finally, the industry has acknowledged the materials used to create EV batteries, such as cobalt, had a poor effect on the environment. The latest batteries are being produced with manganese rather than cobalt making them more cost efficient and environmentally friendly than before.

Another success for the electric car industry is its expanding charging infrastructure. Not only are more EV chargers being rapidly installed at service stations across the UK, but endeavours to create electric only service stations are on the up. GridServe plan to open 100 Electric Forecourts by 2025, the first one currently residing in Essex. The all-electric stations allow 36 cars to charge at once.

Electric chargers are also now streamlining to a nationally agreed charging port the CCS (Combined Charging System). This means if you’re buying a new electric car, it will be compatible at all UK

charging points, a significant development.

Complimenting the advances in charging stations is advancement in route checking programmes. EV charger route calculating app, Zap Map, keeps track of over 35,000 electric chargers across the UK finding you the best route for your range and destination. The app also allows you to check whether chargers are malfunctioning due to comments posted by other drivers. The app also keeps astute monthly statistics tracking chargers and details each new charger installed per month.

So with the ban on selling petrol and diesel cars is set to be enforced in 2030, closely followed by hybrid cars in 2035 and new advancements constantly occurring, it’s time to get ahead of the curve.

We take a look into why now is the time is to go electric with the motor industry’s latest developments.

EVENT HORIZON

Check out the hottest events coming to Leeds this summer!

William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream | Seven Arts | 9th July

On a warm midsummer’s night, four young lovers find themselves wrapped in the dream-like arms of a magical forest where mystery rules. While the feuding fairy rulers are at war, their paths are crossed by the human runaways and a troupe of performers, resulting in tempestuous love triangles, contagious fogs, and moonlight revels. The course of true love is anything but smooth, and games of fantasy, love, and dreams ensue in Shakespeare’s most beguiling comedy.

This contemporary adaptation of the Shakespearian classic brings together modern language, dance, and music to tell the story and is performed by the pupils of Stagecoach Huddersfield.

Elton John | First Direct Arena | 6th June

Elton John, the Britpop legend, is making an appearance in Leeds. Fans old and new will be delighted by the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, which will visit the arena in early June. This will be the superstar’s last-ever tour and the end of half a century on the road for one of pop culture’s most enduring performers, who was recently named as the most successful male solo artist in Billboard Hot 100 chart history, having logged 67 entries, including nine No. 1s and 27 Top 10s.

Firstdirectarena.com

Gin & Rum Festival | Royal Armouries

10th June

Spirit fans will be spoilt for choice with over 120 of the best gins and rums on the market taking centre stage at this festival, including the best of British, spirits from around the world and a huge range of flavoured products. Try out hand-picked selections, many of which are exclusive to the festival. There are even options for those who aren’t a fan of either gin or rum, with a cocktail bar where you can find a selection of seasonal cocktails, authentic sipping tequilas, beer, and of course fizz! Ginandrumfestival.com

Sevenleeds.co.uk

Total Warrior | Wetherby | 1st to 2nd July

Make sure to bring a change of clothes if you’re taking part in this obstacle course! Accept the challenge and tackle up to 25 gruelling obstacles including fire, ice, and mud from the choice of four distances: 12K, 6K, Ultra (5 hours on the 12K course) and Junior Warrior (3K). You can also take part as a team! Teams must have a minimum of four people, but there is no maximum team size, so gather up your mates and get going.

Totalwarrior.co.uk

80s Classical | Millennium Square

28th July

Experience the biggest hits of the 80s in the style of classical music. With a full orchestra providing the soundtrack and songs performed live by the original artists, it’s set to be a performance to remember. 80s Classical will return to its spiritual home at Leeds Millennium Square for a fourth season. Featuring special guests alongside the 50-piece symphony orchestra of Opera North, this is hit after hit of pure 80s gold!

80sclassical.co.uk

A summer holiday can be a great relief from life’s stresses and provides us with an excellent opportunity to see more of the globe. But if you want to avoid the crowds or have a little bit more of a unique experience, while cutting down your costs, these recommendations which emulate popular destinations could be the swap you need.

Colmar instead of Bruges

Bruges has a beautiful fairy tale appearance to its architecture and winding paths, but did you know Colmar in NorthEastern France has a similar aesthetic? Classic French quaintness with Germanic

Vacation

architecture, Colmar was flip-flopped between French and German occupation between 1871 and 1945, providing a perfect blend of the two cities in culture and appearance. The quaint buildings even inspired the artists at the beloved Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli, to set one of its magical films, Howl’s Moving Castle, in the city’s centre with some buildings being directly transferred into the film. To catch the hot weather, its warmer season takes place in July and August.

Taormina instead of Maldives

Though Taormina is a relatively popular city in Sicily known for its holidaymakers, the city is not nearly spoken of often enough. Yes, nowhere can replace the once-in-a-lifetime holiday of the Maldives, but Taormina will give you a run for your money. Maldives reminiscent, Taormina is great for snorkelling in clear blue waters or for laying on white sand beaches. At this beautiful mountainside town visit the ancient ruins, Teatro Greco – an ancient

Greek outdoor theatre which provides a spectacular backdrop of the vista over the mountainside.

Ljubljana instead of Florence

Capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a beautiful ornate European city. With plenty of arts and culture activities such as the National Art Gallery, Ljubljana Castle, and the National Museum of Slovenia. Ljubljana is an ode to the aesthetic of Florence or Prague with its ornate bridges and clustered terracotta roofed buildings. Don’t worry about not speaking Slovenian, Ljubljana is used to tourists so several service providers will speak some English – just don’t pronounce the cities name wrong! It’s pronounced: loo-bee-aa-nuh! The capital also makes for a great home base to explore other parts of Slovenia, most notably the gorgeous Lake Bled notorious for its otherworldly deep blue waters.

Albania instead of Croatia

Croatia used to be a wellkept secret for cheap travel, but now word’s gotten out,

COLOGNE

TAORMINA

ALBANIA

Swaps

Want to follow the road less traveled? Here are our recommendations of beautiful, overlooked travel destinations.

it’s quite a busy place to go! Albania could be your next private getaway. Awarded Best in Travel 2023 by Lonely Planet, trusted guidebook company, it sings its praises calling it The Jewel of the Balkans. Sparkling waters and remarkable mountain ranges, Albania has plenty to offer. Korce, nicknamed Little Paris, is a small-town village and is considered to be the hub of the city’s literary and artistic identity, great for

wandering around its cobbled streets and sitting in sunlit outdoor cafés.

Cologne instead of Munich

Munich is well known for its beer halls but has recently become quite cramped with tourists in the summertime. If you want to experience Germanic culture Cologne, or Köln if you’re in Germany, is a modern and friendly city. Like Munich, Cologne has plenty of arts and culture attractions. Visit the Roonstrasse Synagogue and learn about its rich history for free, see the modern art museum, Museum Ludwig,

or take a trip to Beethoven’s birthplace in Bonn to see his personal manuscripts, instruments, and mementos.

COLMAR

LJUBLJANA

Joining In

BrownHirst Joinery has been providing expert joinery services in North Leeds for over a decade.

every aspect from design to installation. The project can be as simple as replacing your cabinets and cupboard fronts, or involve completely tearing your old kitchen out and having a custom design made from scratch

stated: “I chose this company to produce a bespoke piece. What I got was amazing, plus they did my wood floors, skirting, architraves, panelling in my hallway and are coming back to fit new internal doors.”

A brand-new kitchen might be just what you need to breathe new life into your home, making it a great investment. Your new kitchen should be functional as well as beautiful, and that means maximising the space and choosing the right layout. That’s where BrownHirst comes in, managing

Perhaps a recent spring clean has made you realise you need more storage space. What better way to provide it than a made-to-measure wardrobe? Whether your room is perfectly square or oddly shaped, BrownHirst can create a design which will maximise the available space, giving you a beautiful wardrobe designed to meet your preferred style, ideas, and budget. Or have you always dreamed of having a walk-in wardrobe or a dedicated dressing room? As experts in the design and manufacture of stylish and sturdy wooden furniture, the team can make this dream a reality. Make the most of your space with fitted wardrobes, rails, shelving, and drawers. And of course, don’t forget all of the necessary extras such as a glamour unit, shoe storage, or an in-built dressing table. Getting ready every morning will become the highlight of your day!

Far from being limited to residential outfitting, BrownHirst also works on commercial properties. From shop fitouts, bar renovations, restaurant restyles, and salon updates to complete office

refurbishments, the team has experience with it all. Whether you want beautiful wooden floors, bespoke bars or reception desks, stunning staircases, floor-to-ceiling shelving, handmade furniture, you can rest assured you’ll be getting the best service available, as the business is accredited by City & Guilds, the British Institute of KBB installation, and is a Trustatrander.com Trusted Trader.

One of the key features of BrownHirst Joinery is its commitment to providing a personalised service to clients. The company understands that every project is unique, and therefore works closely with each client to ensure that the final product is exactly what they had envisioned with a full project managed service. From the initial consultation through to the final installation, the team works tirelessly to ensure that the client is completely satisfied with the end result.

Brownhirstjoinery.com

Treat your dad to a special day with our Father’s Day gift guide.

BEST

Letterbox Escape Rooms in an Envelope

Men’s Facial Packages | The Leeds Clinic | Subject to Availability

Book your dad in for some R&R at The Leeds Clinic. There are four treatments best suited for men, the Mini Stress Relief package, the Hero Men’s Facial with massage, the Half Hydra-Back treatment with massage, and the Super Daddy Facial Platinum Hydrafacial with massage. Packages start at £30, with the Mini Stress Relief package, and work up to £150 for the Super Daddy Facial.

Leeds-clinic.co.uk

Aftershave Sample Set | Benny’s Of London | £12.95

If your dad loves watching crime shows, then this gift is for him. Receive a mystery to solve through your letterbox with three puzzles to choose from, The Blunder: while travelling, James sent a message to the wrong people. If the wrong people read it, he’s in big trouble, The Deceit: who betrayed the wildly successful TV chef? The Scandal: Matchfixing has been found at the Marseille Tennis Championships. A sports photographer must find the files and documents being used as blackmail. Which one will you choose? Findmeagift.co.uk

Want to gift your dad an aftershave but worried you’ll get the scent wrong? With a sample gift set you can give four 5ml Benny’s Of London aftershaves to try. In The City Collection package are the scents Soho, Mayfair, Bank, and Marylebone. Why give one aftershave when you can give four? Bennysoflondon.com

Straight Up Beer

‘n’ Bar Snacks Gift Box | The British Gift Co. | £28.95

This luxury hamper does what it says on the tin. Perfect for dads who like their snacks to watch the match or a film, this UK craft ales selection comes with crisps and seed and nut mixes. The bonus is it’s completely vegan too. Thebritishgiftco.com

Vintage Personalised Bifold Leather Wallet | Not On The High Street | £25

A classic gift with a personal touch. Give a present which can be with your dad at all times, this vintage leather wallet can also hold a picture of your family for your dad to keep on him. Select your short message to be embossed in the bottom corner to complete your unique, special gift. Notonthehighstreet.com

DAD

100 Things To Do With Dad Scratch

£13.36

Poster | Amazon

Want to give the gift of quality time with a twist? The 100 Things To Do With Dad Scratch Poster means you’ll never run out of ideas on how to spend time with your dad. Try them all and scratch off all the foil to reveal the images underneath. Recommended activities include: complete a puzzle, have a barbeque, make a fire, and learn about your dad’s childhood. Amazon.co.uk

The Simon & Garfunkel Story City Varieties Music Hall | 17th

June

See a show together this Father’s Day weekend with The Simon & Garfunkel Story. The show is a heartfelt homage to the rich career of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel covering all their hit classics including, Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more.

Leedsheritagetheatres.com

Yoga Nidra and Sound Immersion

Ookushana Workshop

17th June

Give your dad the gift of calm with this yoga Nidra session specially designed to provide the body and nervous system with deep rest and nourishment. Yoga Nidra, also known as enlightened sleep, is a great practice for active dads in need of a break. Eventbrite.co.uk

Miller & Carter Steakhouse | The Headrow

18th June

Celebrate Father’s Day with this luxurious À La Carte menu from Miller & Carter Steakhouse. Specially for Father’s Day it has brought in its limited-edition Cornish Salt Aged Long Bone Tomahawk, available only from 15th to 19th June. Book a table after 7.30pm to receive a complimentary Makers Mark Whisky for dad.

Millerandcarter.co.uk/fathers-day

Leeds Brick Festival | Royal Armouries | 18th June 2023

A great day for LEGO fans, the Leeds Brick Festival is a day celebrating all things LEGO. Your ticket includes speed building competitions, large scale displays, activities, traders selling loose bricks, new LEGO sets, retired LEGO sets, minifigures and accessories, and a dedicated building area. Family tickets, for two adults and two children, are £17 and children under five go free with a paying adult. Eventbrite.co.uk

contrast of

on the temples to peach rims. A genuine

Heart of the Community

HAPPY 25TH!

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) celebrates 25 years at its Alwoodley Gates site.

GSAL is this year celebrating 25 years since it moved to its current campus at Alwoodley Gates. The school took up residency at the site back in 1997, when it was still called Leeds Grammar School.

The former site was an old gothic building on Moorland Road, Headingley, which had been built in 1859. While this building was the site of many happy memories for both students and staff, it quickly became clear that the school was outgrowing what the building could comfortably cater for. For example, at the Headingley site the junior school was in a separate building half a mile away from the senior school, while the main playing fields were even further away, on the other side of Headingley.

Amid pressure for the school to provide more places and expand even further, along with the fact that the Headingley site would need to undergo a £14 million renovation to accommodate this, the decision was made to move to a shiny new site.

After discussions with Vice Chancellor at the University of Leeds, Sir Alan Wilson, the then Headmaster Bryan Collins, along with the school’s governors, negotiated a deal with the university, in which it was agreed that the university would buy the old junior and senior school buildings, along with the Lawnswood playing fields and in exchange, Leeds Grammar School bought the university’s site in Alwoodley, which spanned a spacious 127 acres.

With this deal settled the school’s governors set about raising the money for the move. Construction of the brand-new

school at Alwoodley Gates began in 1994 costing £18.5 million, the project lasted three years, but in summer 1997 it was time to pack up and move.

However, the old school building contained several important historical items that staff and pupils were loath to leave behind. Not least of these was the bell which sat at the top of the chapel. Not willing to part with it, the caretaker at the time, John Marsh, climbed a ladder and brought the bell down by securing it around his neck, with a few fraught moments in between! The move also involved up-rooting some memorial stones the Old Leodiensian Association (OLA) had provided to commemorate their peers lost in the First World War, as well as the wall of the dining room, which had been decorated with the oak top desks of ages past, engraved with the graffiti of the leaving Upper Sixth Form class each year. All of these removals were handled by the staff themselves over that summer and allowed to school to transfer some of the character of its former location to the new building.

Since then, the campus has expanded with state-of-the-art sports, drama and science facilities enjoyed by the whole community. The school supports over 500 jobs in Leeds and contributes over £46.5m to the UK economy per year, and has formed many partnerships with local organisations, schools and charities. With over 2,000 students, from three to 18, and the merger with Leeds Girls’ High School in 2008, the school is regarded right at the top and was named the Independent School

of the Decade for the North in 2021 by The Sunday Times.

There are exciting new developments in the works for GSAL, as Principal, Sue Woodroofe, explains: “Looking to the future, we have two big ambitions. The first is to complete the last part of the plans from merger by building a performing arts centre and the second is to build our endowment fund to increase the bursary support we can offer. When Leeds Grammar School was first founded in 1552, it was built upon a desire to provide a place of learning, ‘for the poor boys of the city’. As we look to the future with a fully completed site, the only priority must be to return to that founding vision and raise the funds so that any child who has the capacity to thrive at GSAL can do so, regardless of the ability to pay. It will be a challenge that will take us up to the 500th anniversary in 2052, but it will enable us to stay true to that original vision and play our full part in the educational landscape of this great city long into the future.”

The Grammar School at Leeds is still accepting applications for September 2023 in some year groups. To find out more contact the admissions team, 0113 228 5121 or admissions@gsal.org.uk

YOOYAA Mini Projector | Amazon | £63.99

This mini projector is for the film and TV lovers! If you know the star of the show wants to have a next level movie night, then this projector makes for great solo watching and sleepovers with friends. Connect it to a laptop or an Amazon Fire Stick to watch any streaming service from Netflix to Disney+ including YouTube. Amazon.co.uk

AKAI Professional MPD218 - MIDI beat maker | Amazon | £158

Are you buying for a future DJ or songwriter? If your special someone loves creating music, then the MIDI beat maker is a piece of kit for them. They can make music and get some early DJ experience.

Amazon.co.uk/AKAI-Professional-MPD218

Amazon Kindle 11th Generation | John Lewis & Partners | £84.99

For book lovers, buy them a Kindle to store all their books in one place. The Amazon Kindle 11th generation eReader has an illuminated touch screen, built-in Audible, and comes in black or denim blue. The six-inch screen slips into any bag or coat pocket to provide easy reading on the go. Johnlewis.com/amazon-kindle-11th-generation

Remote Sunset Projection Lamp | Urban Outfitters | £40

Polaroid Play+ 3D Pen & PLA Filament Box | Amazon

£52.71

Pique their curiosity and let them build all that they can imagine with this 3D pen. Draw in the air and create models with meltable and hardening silk filaments which include a range of colours including multicoloured and glow in the dark. This set is everything a budding artist needs to get started. Amazon.co.uk

To decorate their room, buy them a sunset lamp! Making the room glow with a relaxing yellow and orange light. A sunset lamp will bring a restful sunset into their room whenever they’d like.

Urbanoutfitters.com

Get to the Beat

JBL Clip 4 Waterproof Speaker

Argos

| £39.99

A Bluetooth speaker to connect to your phone, this portable speaker is great to take to friends’ houses, to take out and about in the summer and even by the pool on holiday with its waterproof feature. The battery lasts for up to 10 hours of playtime and you can clip the integrated carabiner hook to your belt, bag, or buckle.

Argos.co.uk

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera Boots | £79

An instant camera is a great gift for any Bat or Bar Mitzvah so they can take polaroids of their special day to keep forever. Coming in the colours Blush Pink, Ice White, Sky Blue, Lilac Purple, or Charcoal Grey, you can also buy them the film to go with it – 20 shots for £14.99. Accessories like a carry case are also available. Boots.com/instax-mini-11-camera

Find the perfect present for any Bar or Bat Mitzvah you’ll be attending this year with these media gifts for the star of the show.

Food for Thought

When planning an event for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or any event, food and drink play a key part. Making sure your guests remember the catering for the right reasons can be a challenge, and we’re seeing a trend to move away from a sit down dinner and deliver something a little more relaxed and unique. At Shenderey Events, we know how to make your catering personal, thematic, and fun to give your guests an unforgettable night. Combining years of experience with knowledge of current trends, our top tips for catering will make sure your event inspires and entertains.

Let guests mingle

Sit down meals can feel very formal. Being assigned to a particular table, and a certain seat, can take some of the fun away from your event. And there’s nothing worse than being seated next to the wrong person and tied to boring conversation (or, even worse, no conversation at all).

We’re huge fans of allowing guests to choose where to sit and who to chat to. We’ve seen a real trend in clients stepping away from the traditional three-coursedinner format. A great way to do this is with

food platters, giving guests chance to choose to their own tastes. The variety will please even the fussiest of guests, and deliver a relaxed, positive atmosphere: bringing the food into your event, rather than taking guests away from the party.

Theme food platters

While platters are a great idea, you risk mismatched food that feels confused. We always encourage our clients to bring their event theme into their food with themed platters. For example, a Mediterranean style works really well, with the popularity for sharing plates in restaurants being carried through to successful events. Canapes, bitesized portions, and mezze platters are fun and sociable, giving guests chance to grab food that tastes great and is easy to eat.

If you’re not keen on the idea of food-onthe-go, but hate a formal sit-down, there’s a great compromise. We love helping our clients develop food stations. Each one can be themed, from regional cuisine to traditional favourites, and guests can help themselves at their leisure. And, if you’re concerned about how a food station may look, don’t worry. Whether you want your catering to stand out or blend into the background, we know exactly how to style your food stations to make them the perfect centrepiece or a subtle addition.

Make it personal Food certainly gets people talking, so you

want to make it memorable. One way to do that is personalising your catering. The biggest worries around this are often complication and cost, but we know how to personalise your food simply and on a budget. Replace bottle labels with the name of your event, switch brand logos for your own motifs, or rename drinks as something personal to you. It’s a chance to make your mark on your big day, honour a family member, or share a joke between friends.

Some of our favourite event themes of late have carried through perfectly into the food and drink. A recent client loved Alice in Wonderland, so a white rabbit waiter handed each guest a mocktail on arrival labelled ‘Drink Me’. They were then ushered into a fabric tunnel hanging from the ceiling, which grew smaller and smaller as they walked through: setting the scene for the entire event by bringing the novel to life. We also organised a Willy Wonka party, with chocolate waterfalls and lollipops with sticks personalised using the eponymous character’s signature font. It’s one of our favourite examples of how a small, simple touch can have a great impact and make your guests smile.

Bringing that personal touch to your food and drink can be done with style, personality and, of course, professionalism. With an experienced event planner on your side, your catering will fit seamlessly within your theme to deliver an event to remember.

Shenderey-events.com

Event Planner, Juliet Shenderey, shares how to personalise your catering with food and drink that makes the right impression.

A Real Mitzvah

murdered during the Holocaust.

Bar and Bat Mitzvah twinning is a unique tradition which involves pairing a child from one community with another from a different community who is unable to have their own due to various circumstances. Sharing this experience is a great way to make an already special day have even greater significance.

Your child can also be twinned with one who was killed during the Holocaust and never got the chance to celebrate their Bar Mitzvah. Yad Vashem provides the information for this special form of twinning. Through this service, the child being remembered will share something with the participant – a birthday, a name or place of origin, for further significance.

This process can strengthen a child's identification with and understanding of their Jewish heritage by forging bonds with individual children who were murdered during the Holocaust, and also allows the memory of these children to be honoured, giving your family opportunity to remember and learn about the life of a child who was

A customized Twinning Kit containing information about the "twin" and immediate family members, as well as a study guide and a special certificate acknowledging participation in the Twinning Program will be sent to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah child. The Twinning Kit also includes a memoir written by a Holocaust survivor, a personal letter from a Holocaust survivor, a bookmark, and a personal QR code to a virtual Bar/Bat Mitzvah tour of the Holocaust History Museum at Yad Vashem, filmed especially for this project.

Jewish Child’s Day offers another twinning service which will match the Bar Mitzvah boy/ Bat Mitzvah girl with a child in Belarus or Israel who is unable to celebrate. This programme allows your child to choose their special partner for a minimum donation of £180. The advantage of this project is that they are in control of every aspect of the process, choosing how to raise the money and who to twin with, offering a taste of greater responsibility in the lead-up to this meaningful rite of passage. It also allows them to become closer to someone from a community outside of their own and may even create a lasting friendship that will endure for years to come.

Naomi Williams, whose daughter Daisy is currently taking part in the Yad Vashem programme, recounts what the experience has been like: “We have spent months planning a big party to celebrate

our daughter Daisy’s Bat Mitzvah which we are so excited for. But a girl becoming Bat Mitzvah is so much more than a big party. I wanted Daisy to understand how lucky she is, to be Jewish and able to openly celebrate that.

“Both my grandparents were born in Berlin, when they were just 15 when they escaped Nazi Germany on the Kindertransport and came to the UK. That meant leaving every member of their family and arriving alone in a foreign country (and never seeing their parents and some of their siblings again). The Yad Vashem twinning programme is an incredible way to honour our past and remember another girl who was not able to celebrate her Bat Mitzvah. They selected a girl with the same Hebrew name as Daisy and the pack comes with information about the young girl, a wonderful poem and memorial candles that we plan to light at the Friday Night Dinner of her Bat Mitzvah weekend. It’s a chance to continue the Jewish line and that is the true celebration.”

Twinning is a beautiful idea promoting the concept of inclusion encouraging young people to see themselves as members of a global community with a shared responsibility to make the world a better place. They can learn about different Jewish traditions, music, and customs, expanding their knowledge and appreciation of their own heritage, while aiding and honouring a less fortunate child.

Yadvashem.org

Jcd.uk.com

Sharing your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah with another child who is unable to celebrate their own is a beautiful tradition for the family.

In honour of our Bar and Bat Mitzvah Special, we look back at all of the youngsters who were called up in the last year.

CHLOE MILLER CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH WITH A FRIENDS THEME.

PHOTO: STEVE BOOTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE AFTERPARTY TOOK PLACE AT THE MAZCC.

PHOTO: STEVE BOOTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE DAY TOOK PLACE IN THE GREAT SYNAGOGUE, SYDNEY.

AUSTIN BENMAYOR WAS CALLED UP IN SUNNY AUSTRALIA.

AT THE AFTERPARTY, GUESTS JOINED FREDDIE ON THE DANCE FLOOR.

FREDDIE BROCH WAS CALLED UP AT BHH SYNAGOGUE.

SONNY BARRON CELEBRATED HIS BAR

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

LUCA WOLFRYD CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH AT WHARFEDALE GRANGE.

ABE STRAIGHT WAS CALLED UP AT BHH.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

MITZVAH IN FEBRUARY. THE CEREMONY TOOK PLACE AT UHC.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

ABE READ FROM THE TORAH IN FRONT OF PROUD ONLOOKERS.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

DAD SIMON, MUM ROCHELLE, AND LITTLE BROTHER OLIVER WERE THERE TO SEE HIM BE CALLED UP.

PHOTO: CLAIRE BARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY

JOSH COHEN CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH AT BHH SYNAGOGUE.

NOAH GOULD CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH AT THE UNITED HEBREW CONGREGATION JOINED BY HIS PARENTS AND SISTER ON THE BIG DAY.

PHOTO: IAN ROBINSON

ZARA SYERS CELEBRATED HER BAT MIZVAH AT SINAI SYNAGOGUE.

PHOTO: SIMON MARCUS FROM ADDICTIVE MEDIA

LOLA ROSENBERG CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH IN DECEMBER. SHE WAS CALLED UP AT UHC LEEDS.

MARTINE MYERS CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH IN JANUARY ALSO AT UHC WHICH WAS ENJOYED BY ALL OF MARTINE’S FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

PHOTO: STEVE BOOTLE PHOTOGRAPHY

BIG TOP

Creating the home for circus is Yorkshire Circus, a community project offering workshops for young people to build skills, and perform at celebrations and events across North Leeds.

Circus is a large umbrella term for many different disciplines and pursuits, taking and adopting influences from across the globe to bring entertainment and joy to anyone who takes part. It attracts a number of hobbyists, performers, facilitators, and admirers of all ages and abilities. It has come a long way from its roots in traditional touring shows in the 1900s and has developed into its own contemporary art form.

Historically Leeds has strong ties with circus, whether it be the story of Pablo Fanque, a marvellous equestrian performer and the first recorded Black circus owner in Britain from the early 19th century, who is buried in Woodhouse, or the famous Buffalo Bill, who made headlines when he came to town from America with his troupe to perform. Today, Leeds is still seen as a home to many different artists and practitioners, attracting attention from some of the larger touring circuses such as circus Zyair in Roundhay Park.

Yorkshire Circus is here to offer a physical and spiritual home for individuals to come and share in the magic. Offering classes, performances, and community events in a huge variety of circus skills, from juggling to aerial silks, from acrobatics to hula-hoop, there is something for everyone to get their teeth into. And for events like Weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and any celebration, Yorkshire Circus will perform and add sparkle and energy to proceedings.

As part of the continued development of the circus community in the city and the

wider county, Yorkshire Circus works with many organisations to bring events and performances out to communities. Its PopUp Circus on Briggate saw hundreds enjoy free shows and workshops during school holidays in the city centre, it also works on a grassroots level with schools, community organisations, and charities, helping children and young people to develop their skills, confidence and have a little fun!

The team works tirelessly hosting training and development programmes, allowing many to enter the sector as freelance workers and providing that first step as they take on their own journey in a career in the arts. Everything is for the

community, proceeds from events booked through Yorkshire Circus go straight back into the community, allowing us to offer free training and social opportunities, as well as discounted classes for anyone who may run into financial barriers when trying to access services.

There are many ways that people can get involved in Yorkshire Circus, no matter how small. Regular open training sessions are held every Tuesday 6 to 9pm along with a variety of beginner and advanced sessions in all manner of circus skills. Drop-in or get in touch to chat more about how you can join in.

And if you are planning an event, why not book Yorkshire Circus to perform and dazzle your guests.

Yorkshirecircus.

co.uk

Hello@ yorkshirecircus. co.uk

THE Perfect Day

Get to know the sights of Wetherby and Boston Spa with our rundown of the perfect day out from North Leeds.

Wetherby and Boston Spa are two vibrant towns drawing day-trippers from many a mile, including the local area.

Boston Spa sits on the River Wharfe and is known for its characteristic Georgian architecture. Despite being classed as a village, it has plenty of attractions that make it well worth spending the morning there including chic boutiques, fresh flowers and home interiors.

After a morning of shopping, why not stop in for a quick lunch at Southern Italian restaurant Da Carlo Trattoria! Da Carlo offers home cooked dishes and a warm welcome to revive you after a busy morning.

Continued on page 48

ALL PHOTOS: DAVID COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Bosun’s is Wetherby’s very own independent craft brewery, specialising in a seafaring-themed range.

Bosun’s Brewery has been an established name in the beverage industry since 2012, though the brand only came under the ownership of four friends, including Steven Cree and James Tosh in February 2020, just four weeks before the first COVID-19 lockdown. Naturally, this unexpected and unprecedented circumstance caused quite a challenge for the new business owners.

“Nobody had ever seen anything like it,” Steven confided. “We originally bought it as an investment, but very quickly all of our customers had to close which was devastating for the industry. We then turned to bottling.”

The brewery was originally based in Huddersfield, but in June 2021 Bosun’s made its way to its current premises in Wetherby: “Four of us originally bought the brewery. It just made sense to be based in our area, and the unit is a bit bigger than the one in Huddersfield. It also gave

Down the Hatch

this is where the nautical theme originates from. When we took on the brewery it came with many recipes, but we have concentrated on a core range with specials at different times of the year. We’ve worked hard on our branding and pump clips with lots of help from Yes/No Studio in Leeds.”

us space for the tap room as well.” The tap room is located on-site and connected to the brewery itself, and opens on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Sunday afternoons. The tap room will be serving a selection of Bosun’s brews as well as a rotating range of guest tipples. Bosun’s has even partnered with Yorkshire Dough Box, who will be serving freshly made pizza 4pm to 9pm every Friday and Saturday.

With the name Bosun’s as well as brews such as the Arctic Myst pilsner, Tempest IPA, Maiden Voyage amber ale, and Black Beard stout, it’s hard to miss the nautical theme the business has going. As it turns out, there’s an interesting reason for this: “The previous owner was in the navy, and

The brewery has also created a new charity beer. 15p from every pint sold will go towards care and support across the Harrogate district, through Saint Michael’s Hospice. The North Yorkshire-based charity exists to ensure local people affected by terminal illness across the district can access high quality, personalised care: “We have been looking to support a charity and we are very hopeful that we can raise lots of money from sales of the charity beer. The people at the charity are really positive about the idea, so hopefully it should give them a lot of support.”

If you’re eager to try out the Bosun’s range why not come down to the tap, or visit website for some cans? You can also catch them at the Great Yorkshire Show between 11th and 14th July.

Greatyorkshireshow.co.uk

Bosunsbrewery.com

Continued from page 46

Menu highlights include the fillet of seabass served with asparagus and lemons or the tomato, rocket, buffalo mozzarella, olive, pesto, and artichoke ciabatta sandwich.

After a restorative lunch it’s time to head over to Wetherby for the afternoon. This picturesque town has a tonne of attractions to draw in visitors, with many a boutique and quirky shop.

Of course, no trip to Wetherby is complete without a tour of its famous pubs. Wetherby used to be an

important staging post where travellers would stop halfway on the journey between London and Edinburgh, meaning its pubs have been drawing visitors for centuries. In fact there is a brewery on hand, Bosun’s at Sandbeck has some excellent beers being canned and a taproom on a weekend to visit. Kicking back with a pint in here is the perfect end to a busy day checking out all the attractions Wetherby and Boston Spa have to offer.

The town’s well-known historic attractions are ideal to extend your day through the evening. The racecourse is sited on land previously owned by The Montagu family of Ingmanthorpe Hall, the large Georgian house you can see from the course today. The land was rented to the race committee and the first meeting was held on 30th March 1891. For over a century, racegoers have experienced steeplechases, sprints, and handicap races and will hopefully continue to do so for years to come. Check out the evening meetings this month.

If horse racing isn’t your cup of tea, perhaps

consider heading to Wetherby’s very own independent cinema. Though it may be small, containing only two screens, it’s just as comfortable as watching a movie at home as the venue has forgone the usual cinema seats in lieu of cosy armchairs to chill out in. You can catch all the latest releases as well as some more avant garde cinema, so there’s something available to suit every taste.

ALL PHOTOS: DAVID COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

This picturesque town has a tonne of attractions to draw in visitors, with many a boutique and quirky shop.”

TRATTORIA DA CARLO

TRADITIONAL SOUTH ITALIAN DISHES, JUST LIKE AT MAMAS

Da Carlo offers home cooking and a warm welcome and extensive menu including breakfasts, lunches and dinner, Wednesday to Sunday.

We are especially well known for our delicious sea food dishes, fresh food and friendly service.

With our passion for cooking, and special flavours learned over time, we hope you will enjoy our little taste of Italy in Boston Spa.

All allergies and vegetarian catered for. Just speak to Carlo!

Booking advisable

134 High Street

Boston Spa LS23 6BW

Live Longer

Da Carlo Trattoria, traditional Italian restaurant at Boston Spa has a motto: se mangi bene vivi a lungo – if you eat well you live longer. At Da Carlo Trattoria you can do just that, its home cooked South Italian dishes

Check out these hot summer fashion recommendations.

Joy of Summer Dress

Joe Browns | £65

A gorgeous colourful summer dress, this lightweight maxi dress with three-quarter sleeves is perfect for hot summer weather from day to night.

Blue Shaping Swimsuit

George | £16

With a wrap-around bust and ruched sides this one-piece swimming costume is simply elegant making it flattering for all body types. The sizing goes from size eight to 30 and it also comes in two other colours, black and orange.

Asda.com/George

Men's Navy Geometric Print Swim

Shorts | Threadbare £15.99

The home of stylish swimwear for men, Threadbare has an excellent selection of premium swim shorts made from 100% recycled polyester. The shorts have a mesh inner lining for comfort and support when swimming and their elasticated waistband has drawstrings for an adaptable size, sizes run from small to double extra large.

Threadbare.com

Ava Sunglasses | Fat Face |

£22

The Ava sunglasses are a beautiful blush shade in a soft cat-eye shape. A change from black or brown sunnies, the neutral pink colour goes with every outfit and provides a softer alternative to darker shades. Thanks to their thicker than normal frame, they’ll be comfortable all day long. Fatface.com

Featuring a contrasting stripe design, this teal green cotton t-shirt is lightweight and perfect for summer barbeques. Wear on its own or with a shirt... Fatface.com

Health Matters

Competition

To be in with a chance of winning the free medical, just answer the question below:

What type of tie is Dr Ben wearing at the Phoenix Business Club Awards on the practice’s homepage?

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: 21st July 2023

Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Dr Finlay’s Private Practice databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

Dr Finlay’s Private Practice is offering our readers the chance to win a full personal health-check, comprising a 90-minute consultation with a private doctor at the award-winning practice on The Avenue, Leeds.

The experienced team at Dr Finlay’s all understand how important it is for you to gain the reassurance that a full personal medical can provide, and their expert care for their patients has recently led to them winning Business of the Year at the Phoenix Business Club Awards.

They also favour preventative medicine, offering patients detailed advice on

nutrition and proposing lifestyle changes that can prevent issues, or screen for them, before they arise. The medical examination, (usual price £750), will include blood tests to review your health, and their team go into great detail to understand your past medical history, current issues to sort out, and future risks to address.

The medical, which is a ‘flagship product’ and is popular with many patients at the practice, can be arranged with either a male or a female doctor, according to your preference.

At the end of the medical, your doctor will provide you with a detailed report including actions to take for the coming year.

We are all on a journey towards better health – kick-start yours today. Find out more about the new practice on page 73. Drfinlays.co.uk

One lucky reader can win a free personal medical health-check worth £750 at the new Dr Finlay’s Private Practice in LS17.

El Greco

gyros, and a seafood selection. We asked for a “selection” to allow a taste of all, and we were not disappointed! This included a chicken souvlaki, from the à la carte, a chicken gyros wrap lunchtime special, both accompanied with Greek salads and special El Greco feta, salted chips delightfully scattered with oregano, and pittas (yes, all at lunchtime!) all exquisite, and by the way THE best fresh cooked chicken I’ve tasted in years!

Leeds’ latest Greek restaurant in West Park has hit the ground running.

cakes and a trusty baklava. And all very reasonably priced I may add! Fortunately, my gym membership is across the road at The Village, so I can prepare for another visit soon.

My partner is gluten free, and allergens are very much considered here, plus for veggies and children there are lots of menu choices. The facilities are top notch, everything has been considered, including mobility access and restrooms. Go try this great new restaurant soon, it gets busy, and as its name suggests it will soon be on everyone’s lips in North Leeds as the Greek.

El Greco 247 Otley Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 5LQ

West Park has a new face, taking over the space vacated by Bliss is a Greek restaurant, run by Arsen and his team. With its glass front and contemporary décor, the ambience was bright and welcoming. My partner and I visited at lunchtime, not too busy but with a lunchtime menu Monday to Thursday there were plenty of tables taken.

The staff were brilliant, warm, and attentive, the menu offers an array of Greek dishes including classics with a modern twist such as souvlaki, moussaka,

There are plenty of authentic Greek beers, including Mythos and Efes, as well as a selection of wines, but we went for coffee as it was a working day! And the coffees are awesome too, we had a Freddo espresso each to give us a wake up after all the scrumptious food. And had we had space, the dessert menu has various Greek

Telephone: 0113 414 7205

Open Mon to Sat 12pm to 9:30pm; Sunday 12pm to 8pm

Book online Elgrecoleeds.co.uk

ALL PHOTOS: DAVID COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

THE ANNUAL LEEDS JEWISH COMMUNITY

AWARDS DINNER

16th

Charlene & Ben Lyons

GUESTS

Rebecca & Jonny Skolnick

Supporting OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

TICKETS - £45 PP INCLUDING DINNER

Monica Gay Female Award

SPONSORED BY Philippa & Jonathan Straight

Which amazing woman do you know who deserves recognition?

Covid Hero Award

SPONSORED BY Debbie & Adam Cutler

The pandemic was a time when our community spirit knew no bounds; was there one person who you think deserves recognition?

The Lloyd Rakusen Sporting Achievement Award

SPONSORED BY The Rakusen & 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.

BOOK YOUR FREE VALUATION t w

Community Achievement Award

| 0113 2370211 | manningstainton.co.uk

SPONSORED BY

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

Leader of Youth Award SPONSORED BY

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

LJWB Champion

SPONSORED BY

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

Outstanding Recognition Award SPONSORED BY

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

Community Volunteer Award

SPONSORED BY TerrI & Ian Barnett

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

Adrienne & Louis Harris Lifetime Achievement Award

SPONSORED BY Linda & Martin Lee and Sheryl & Martin Harris

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?

MAIN SPONSORS

MARCIA & ANDREW BROWN

Lynne & Malcolm Hirschfield 0113 320 5000 WS Winston Solicitors

When Service Wins

Heart of the Community

QUIZ MASTERS

Winston Solicitors raised over £6,000 for local charities with a sold out event.

It took just 17 days for the 2023 Winston Solicitors Annual Quiz to sell out! This year’s event was the most successful yet, seeing 21 teams battle it out for first place in a witty, original, and brain teasing quiz.

With thanks to the support of local businesses and individuals, there were a superb collection of raffle and auction prizes to increase the fundraising. This year saw the addition of George’s Gallery, a collection of photographs by George Astle,

friend and colleague who passed away in November 2022.

Leeds Mencap and Saint Michael’s Hospice received an equal share of over £6,000 which was raised during the quiz night. Both charities were delighted at receiving their donations.

“The Annual Quiz was the perfect synergy of a fabulous evening,” said Sandra Gilbert, from Saint Michael’s Hospice “It was such an enjoyable and immersive event

PLAYGROUND UPGRADE

Jewish Freemasons lodge, The Lodge of Dawn, has been fundraising for organisations close to its heart including the Meanwood Park Playground Appeal.

The Lodge of Dawn has presented a cheque for £30,000 towards the Meanwood Park Playground Appeal. The appeal came to the attention of The Lodge after seeing a story about the disrepair of the park in the Yorkshire Evening Post. The Meanwood Playground Appeal team said: “Meanwood Park is at the core of our community, and the playground needs some serious work. We are absolutely delighted that the Leeds Freemasons have now granted us £30,000

to deliver some fantastic new, safer, and accessible features to the playground. This will make a huge difference to the project.”

The project was started by a group of local mums who were unhappy with constant drainage issues making the park difficult to access, even worse so for children in wheelchairs. A spokesperson for The Lodge said: “Charitable giving is a key part of masonic life. We are delighted to see our funds being used for something that

that people look forward to and come to each year, while helping and supporting people locally at the same time and making a difference for others.”

“It was genuinely so lovely seeing Winston Solicitors, its supporters and friends come together to support Leeds Mencap, it really does mean a lot to us and the children,” said Abi Hart, Senior Fundraiser at Leeds Mencap.

supports our local community, and right on our doorstep.”

Another charity venture of The Lodge was its inaugural annual pool tournament. 18 members took part in the event, hosted at the Northern Snooker centre. After 38 nail-biting games, only interrupted by a break for refreshments, Sam Fryer and Stephen Patterson turned out to be runaway winners. Running alongside the tournament was a charity raffle which raised £140.

THE 1001 STORIES TAKEOVER AS PART OF LEEDS 2023 FEATURED CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE JEWISH COMMUNITY.

THERE WAS EVEN AN INFLATABLE SLIDE AND FACE PAINTING FOR THE LITTLE ONES. IT WAS A REAL FAMILY DAY!

EVEN THE TOUGHEST FOOD CRITICS HAD SOMETHING TO ENJOY.

CLARINETTIST, PHIL CAMMERMAN, PIANIST, STUART GARDEN, AND VOCALIST, STANLEY GLUCKSMAN GAVE A LIVELY PERFORMANCE OF POPULAR SMOOTH CLASSICS.

ALL PHOTOS: ALAN BENSTOCK

THERE WAS AN ENORMOUS SPREAD OF BARBECUED MEAT, BAKED POTATOES, AND DELICIOUS SALADS.

Jo-Ann Eisenberg first fell in love with stained glass due to one particular piece on the west coast of Ireland: “In the 1980s I lived on the west coast of Ireland. There was a beautiful stainedglass window, not far from where I lived in Connemara, and I just used to go and gaze at it. That’s what made me decide that that’s what I would like to learn to do. I set up a business just from home initially.”

Born Jewish, Jo-Ann’s studio is tucked away in the Sheepscar area of Leeds, where many of the community settled in the late 1800s and early 1900s. While Jo-Ann often works from commission, the pieces she creates always have her own personal spin on them: “There are different facets to what I do, but in regard to the actual stained-glass windows, they’re normally made to commission. The inspiration comes from nature, science, people, places, but working to commission I often have to fulfil the brief. But 99% of the time, the design is mine and is inspired by all of those things, using sacred geometry as a grid to work on.”

Creating stained-glass artwork is a time-intensive process with several

GLASS LOOKING

create your own piece.

different stages which go towards creating the full piece: “The light changes the piece, whether it’s artificial or natural light –natural is always the best option. From their ideas, I then produce the artwork showing the emotions they want it to convey and the story they want the piece to tell. This can take two to three weeks, though it varies, because you’re basically producing a painting. Once the client gives the ok, I go ahead and make the window.

“That involves drawing up a full-sized cartoon, which is the actual design so that I know where the lead lines are going and how to cut the glass. Once I’ve cut it all out and chosen the colours, I then go on to add other things to the glass, which could be painting, sliver-staining, etching, or fusing, all of which is time heavy. I then lead the whole thing together and cement it, which waterproofs and seals it. Depending on the size and complexity, this can take anywhere between four days and months.”

Aside from her work for clients, Jo-Ann has another project that she would like to work on if funding permitted: “I want to do a series of seven panels depicting the seven days of

creation. I wanted to do something around my Jewish background, and maybe try and involve people from the community in the process, but I can’t really do this project without funding, otherwise you are kind of working backwards, producing a body of work that doesn’t have a home. Should the project go ahead, I think that its ultimate home is something that could be discussed with the community. I’d be glad to hear from anyone who has any ideas or wants to be part of the project.”

Hannahstainedglass.com

COMPETITION

Jo-Ann is offering on of our readers a chance to win a half day glass fusing class, in which you will produce your own piece of fused glass artwork. To enter, answer the question below:

Where was the window which inspired Jo-Ann to learn how to create fused glass artwork located?

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: 21st July 2023

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

We chat with Jo-Ann Eisenberg, a stained-glass artisan, about the amazing work she produces from her Leeds studio, her plans for a Seven Days of Creation community project, and how you can win a class to

A WINDOW FOR LEEDS ALLOTMENT FEDERATION, COMMISSIONED FOR THE LEEDS PIANO TRAIL.

A WATERCOLOUR JO-ANN PAINTED IN PREPARATION FOR A PIECE.

DETAILS OF THE FINISHED PIECE BASED ON JO-ANN’S ORIGINAL WATERCOLOUR.

On Your Bike!

In honour of World Bicycle Day on 3rd June, it’s time to dust off your bike and helmet and get peddling around North Leeds.

Cycling is increasing in popularity as a means of transport due to its health benefits and low carbon footprint. Getting out and about on a bike is a fun way to pass a weekend that can include the whole family, but it’s important to do your research and plot your route beforehand to ensure you’re not biting off more than you can chew.

The City Connect Journey Planner, funded by the Department for Transport, allows you to plot a route around Leeds beforehand and tailor the journey to your abilities and preferences. The planner provides options to prioritise quiet roads, off-road paths, or the fastest route. You can also choose the desired level of difficulty, making the planner a useful tool for both beginner cyclists and more experience ones who are looking for more challenging routes.

The planner is able to provide

a wealth of information about any route, including turn-by-turn directions, distance, estimated time of arrival, elevation, and even the location of bike parking facilities along the way.

The website also has a section suggesting cycling routes around Leeds’ points of interest, and one along the Nidderdale Greenway which stops at both Ripley and Harrogate.

Cyclecityconnect.co.uk

TOP ROUTE PLANNING TIPS

1. Make use of online tools. Aside from City Connect, there are a plethora of online tools available which can help you to plot your route. Google Maps, Strava, or dedicated cycling apps offer directions and often consider bike-friendly paths, dedicated cycling lanes, and areas with less traffic.

2. Consider road conditions. Bike lanes or shared paths are much safer and more enjoyable than cycling on the road. It’s also best to avoid busy roads or areas with heavy traffic if possible and consider any steep hills you might face along the way.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Maybe ask a friend who cycles frequently if they have any favourite routes or reach out to local cycling clubs or online groups to see if they are able to offer any wisdom.

LEEDS

United Leeds

So far, LEEDS 2023 has completed its Awakening phase, which lasted from 1st January to 30th April and has now fully transitioned into its latest phase, titled: Playing, which will last for the duration of summer, from now to 31st August.

The Playing phase of the year captures the idea that we have much to discover and play around with in Leeds’ rich artistic and musical culture. And you don’t have to be an artist or a musician be involved and enjoy it! Nick Wayne, host of Roundhay’s LEEDS 2023, says: “When some people think culture, they think that’s going to be a bit boring, a bit highbrow. It isn’t. It’s fun.

“The exhibition at the art gallery exhibiting Leeds’ artists was superb. Because the event was free (as are most of these events), but when people put into the ballot for a ticket, they had to submit some form of piece of art. So, it might have been a painting or a drawing, might have been a poem, it could have been a photograph of a cake that they've made, it could be all sorts of things. Just anything. It was wonderful, because regular people are discovering they have talent.”

Though the exhibition during the awakening is now closed, the camaraderie of culture being created by us all is on-going. Over 300 ordinary people have volunteered to help LEEDS 2023 so far and you can do so too by applying to volunteer on their website, earning you special VIP LEEDS

2023 experiences from exciting celebrations to mass participation spectaculars.

On Sunday 27th August will be the Black Music Festival, showcasing talent from genres of Black origin. Performing at the festival will be a group called Reggae Roots, a band of nine to 19-year-olds from Leeds, who have been rehearsing to be Britain's only youth reggae choir. Nick says: “But not only that, they were invited to perform in the grounds of Windsor Castle as part of the king's coronation. And this is a group of kids from Leeds, who just got together for the love of music and the participation. There was also a little programme on BBC

on 5th May about how the selection process started. It's just incredible. Who knew that these kids were around with that sort of talent?”

For anyone on the fence who’s considering going to a LEEDS 2023 event, Nick says: “Do something that you would never dream of doing. Because you never know, it could be your new passion, it could be your new desire, it could be your new pastime. Just do something. Look at the programme and say, ‘Well, I don't know what that is.’ And try it. It's not going to take a huge amount of time. It's probably going to be free. So why wouldn't you?”

For a full list of events including stand-up comedy, exhibitions and roller discos across the city, log on check out the programme. Leeds2023.co.uk

2023 is a bold and imaginative Year of Culture packed with creativity celebrating Leeds. We check in with Nick Wayne, Roundhay’s LEEDS 2023 host, to see what’s coming up and how you can get involved.

CLEAR WATERS

AT HOME

volunteering opportunities or use MCS’s website to learn how to conduct your own beach clean-up.

Sign petitions and campaign

Single-Use plastics

With the ban on single use plastics coming in during October we could all use some practice to find alternatives. Why not use World Ocean Day as a milestone to perfect your technique? According to Surfers Against Sewage, 12 million tonnes of plastic finds its way into the ocean every year, disposing of plastics correctly such as using the correct recycling bins, or better yet, avoiding buying plastic packaging, is crucial to reducing this devastating number. Instead of plastics like clingfilm or water bottles, opt for longer use materials such as wax wraps, tupperware, and refillable bottles.

Chemicals and chemical disposal

Opt for non-toxic chemicals when you’re buying cleaning products. The brand Smol have a large range of non-toxic and environmentally friendly cleaning products, including refill spray bottles (keeping in line with the single use plastics tip!). Get the products delivered to your home in the quantity you need at its fair price promise. If you must dispose of toxic chemicals in your house, familiarise yourself with safety regulations – most chemicals should not be poured down the sink and should instead be disposed of with your local hazardous waste disposal service.

OUT AND ABOUT

Making a difference can also mean alerting other people to the severity of the problem. To incite positive change sometimes you need to shout louder. Get involved by sharing petitions on social media, or by adding to hashtags such as MCS’s ongoing campaign #bandisposablevapes which is attempting to ban the numerous disposable vapes which end up on our shores. To get involved take a picture of a littered single use vape, tag MCS and include the hashtag to make your voice heard. There are several other campaigns on MCS website you can also partake in.

Fish consumption

Another detrimental factor to ocean cleanliness is fishing. Overfishing can disrupt the ecosystem of marine life and deteriorate their habitats such as coral reefs. At home we can play our part by choosing sustainable seafood, Marine Conservation Society (MCS) have created a Good Fish Guide which categorises which types of fish are suitable for consumption, and which are best to avoid, via colour coding from green to red. They even provide sustainable swaps for alternatives for the fish of your choosing, the guide can be downloaded for offline use on your phone so you can always refer to it in the supermarket.

Take part in a beach clean-up

An excuse to get to the seaside, but this time grab your litter picker and bin bag! Taking part in a beach clean-up can make a world of difference to your local community. National Trust have a Find a Beach Clean page on its website so you can search for

Volunteer with MCS

Good at getting media attention, or want to offer your time as a spokesperson? MCS also allows you to volunteer as a community presenter, media spokesperson, or as part of its education team. On the MCS website under Volunteering you can find out what’s involved in each role, what the next steps are, the training support such as online sessions MCS can provide you, and how to get in contact with them if you need more help. You’ll be making a long-lasting difference to our planet with like-minded friendly faces.

Nationialtrust.org.uk

Mcsuk.org

For World Ocean Day on 8th June we decided to find out what you can do to contribute to a cleaner ocean.

LOOK LOCAL

June is here which can only mean one thing – any day now it’s going to be summer and we can switch our groans and grumbles about the wind and the rain to the fact it’s far too hot outside and you didn’t sleep a wink last night because it was boiling – I do love annual traditions.

I would like to kick off this month’s column with a huge thank you, to the thousands of Alwoodley Ward residents who voted for my colleague – now Councillor – Lyn Buckley, in May’s local elections. We were beyond delighted with the vote of confidence both in Lyn and the work that we all do as your local councillors. Please be assured that we don’t take anything for granted and all three of us will be doing our absolute best to continue to work as hard as possible, for every resident within Alwoodley.

I do feel that I need to reassure Alwoodley residents that I am still one of your Alwoodley Councillors. Over recent weeks, I have had a lot of calls and emails, concerned that I was standing down, or why my name wasn’t on the ballot paper. In Leeds, each of our 33 wards has three councillors (making 99 councillors in total) – the councillors stand for election in rotation.

In the local elections of May 2022, Alwoodley residents did me the huge honour of re-electing me for a four year term – running to May 2026 (when I will once again be up for re-election). Next

year, in May 2024, it will be the turn of Councillor Neil Buckley to ask for your support. In short, I remain at your service and am honoured and delighted to be here for you all.

On the subject of thanks, a huge thank you to all those who organised and hosted community celebrations for His Majesty’s coronation. I was able to get to events at The Lingfield Centre, UHC & at Alwoodley Community Association and was delighted to be able to celebrate and commemorate this historic occasion with so many residents.

Alwoodley Community Association, based on The Avenue at the centre of the ward, is making a huge effort to be evermore open and accessible to our whole community and to attract as many residents as possible to its events (and hopefully encourage residents to join the club, for a modest membership fee), do visit the club’s Facebook page for information (or drop me a line). One of the upcoming events is a Scotch Malt Whisky Tasting on 21st September 2023 (hosted by yours truly and promising to be a fantastic night) –definitely a date for the diary.

Do remember, Neil, myself and now, of course, our newly elected Alwoodley Councillor, Lyn Buckley, are always here for any and all of your local issues, so if you need us, do get in touch.

Daniel.Cohen@leeds.gov.uk or 07711 647 849

ALL NATURAL

the good comes from in the offering of the first fruits to the priests.

Modern life has distanced us from nature. This has many benefits in quality of life and longevity, but has come at a cost, as we take modern life for granted. Today people find it hard to cope with not having their phone with them for a day, or losing power or running water for an afternoon, things that only tens of years ago could not be counted on, possibly not even afforded.

In spring, our Jewish heritage and life reminds us of all the good we have. Jewish people worldwide have been counting the 49 days of the Omer – a 49-day long harvest festival where we appreciate the fruits of our labour, culminating in Shavuot – the festival of first fruits – where we recognize where all

Modern day Israel offers us a unique opportunity to share in this. While modern life has pulled people away from the earth; the exemplary settler when Israel was reborn was the kibbutznik working in the fields. Israel today is still very innovative and invested in agriculture and due to our lack of rain, always aware of what a blessing the land brings and how it should not be taken for granted. I like the Jewish year cycle for this reason, it forces us to be aware of the nature around us and appreciate that, regardless of if you believe in God, life should not be taken for granted, and everything we have should be appreciated and savoured.

The same is true for the state of Israel. People who did not live through it, do not appreciate life for Jews before the

Jews had a state. Jewish life worldwide has and does gain so much from having a motherland, always there for them and acting fast whenever a Jew worldwide is in need. All this would not exist without the state and without the victory of the Six Day War 19 years after the declaration of independence, when Israel was on the brink of destruction. This is why spring’s Yom’s events were an important celebration of Israel. Yom Ha’atzmaut, and the often overlooked Yom Yerushlayim (a celebration of the salvation of the Six Day War and the unification of Jerusalem) which came a week before Shavuot, are such important days for us to mark, so that our children and grandchildren will know where all this peace and prosperity for the Jewish people has come from, and how Israel is so dear to us even if we live elsewhere.

Dan Cohen, Councillor for Alwoodley, discusses the ward’s local election results and what’s happening in the area.

Yaakov Pinsky, Leeds’ Shaliach, discusses how Shavuot reconnected us with nature.

Family clothing business Skopes celebrates its 75th anniversary alongside Israel.

FASHION CONSCIOUS

family before him. Simon has been at the helm for three decades and 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.

1.5 million plastic bottles being recycled to create the polyester content for the suits. As part of Skopes’ ongoing commitment to transparency, you can track the entire supply chain of each suit by scanning its QR code, allowing you to see its journey from raw material to finished product!

Family is at the heart of Leeds’ renowned formalwear provider Skopes. Founded by Sydney Cope in 1948, Skopes has a deep connection to a city synonymous for men's clothing production. Despite its modest beginnings, Sydney's meticulous attention to detail allowed his small factory to flourish. He 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.

After Sydney, his son Geoffrey took over and made a significant contribution by introducing readily available collections. The company continued to thrive under his leadership. His son Simon Cope, the current Managing Director, has upheld the family values of fairness, respect, and innovation, which were cherished by his

FAMILY SNAPS..

Alongside Israel, the brand is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, and continues to thrive on the foundations upon which it was built. With a long and rich history behind it, Skopes is now looking to protect our planet with a collaboration with Lyfcycle.

Lyfcycle is tackling fast fashion by making a difference in the way clothing is sourced and manufactured, bringing transparency to the forefront of fashion. 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.

Skopes worked with Lyfcycle to design the perfect sustainable collection, with every detail considered to minimise the product’s environmental impact and maximise the social impact. The suits launched in 2020 and since then the eco range has led to over

Of course, just because the new range is eco-friendly, that doesn’t mean that the style is compromised. Skopes’ Lyfcycle Eco Range contains the same sharp styles the brand is known for, including the sleek Romulus Slim Jacket, a single breasted two buttoned fastening in slim fitting, featuring geo printed lining with twin side vents, with matching waistcoat and trousers available. The range is available to be custom tailored so you can look sharp and save the planet at the same time.

You can see the full range of suits online, or visit the outlet store at Freeport in Castleford. Here's to Skopes looking after our planet and our community for another 75 years and beyond!

Skopes.co.uk

SKOPES MD SIMON COPE

SIMON’S MOTHER BARBARA WAS A KEEN HORSERIDER SIMON WITH HIS LATE BROTHER JAMIE

SYDNEY COPE, FOUNDER OF SKOPES, TOGETHER WITH HIS WIFE TOBY MET A YOUNG KING CHARLES

SIMON WITH WIFE NATASHA, DAUGHTER OLIVIA & SON HARLEY

We have been tackling the challenges of social care head-on, for the first time reaching over 1,000 people every week. As the crisis bit, we saw a steep rise in referrals and the MAZCC became a haven for the community.

Food affordability has become a huge issue for people we support and we saw over 350 visits to our Community Pantry which has provided much needed food and necessities to our community. Our hugely successful ‘Pay As You Feel’ Café, run by volunteers provided 240 two-course hot Kosher meals over the Winter months.

Other initiatives included the provision of 611 free weekly lunches to families, 50 winter packs including a warm blanket, flask, hot water bottle, sheets, warm clothes and more, 25 Passover packs and a partnership with the Leeds Kashrut Authority and Gourmet Foods which has enabled people affected by the crisis to continue purchasing Kosher food.

THANK YOU for your continued donations and support which has enabled us to make a huge impact this winter on those who need it most. Look out for our upcoming campaigns and events.

Please visit our website to donate www.ljwb.co.uk or call our donation hotline on 0113 293 4919

Leeds Jewish Welfare Board is proud of the impact of the provision provided to the community through the winter cost-of-living crisis.

Car maintenance is a key aspect of ownership, and over time you will likely come across several issues that need to be resolved. One that is commonly seen in older vehicles is when your clutch starts to slip. No matter the age of the vehicle, if this is happening to your clutch, it is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately.

In some situations, the clutch will need to be replaced, which can come with a large bill. However, sometimes there is a quick fix.

What is clutch slipping?

Clutch slipping happens when a clutch fails to adequately engage or disengage the transmission (gear box), causing the vehicle

MOTORING

Slipping Away

to slip out of gear or to struggle to stay in gear when accelerating.

This can happen due to a worn-out clutch through years of wear and tear, an improperly adjusted clutch, or a lack of lubrication.

Clutch slipping can be dangerous, as it can cause the car to lose power while accelerating, and make it difficult to control the vehicle.

Is it dangerous?

Clutch slipping can be dangerous, as it is an integral part of a vehicle. Should the issue persist then it can cause major damage to your car’s gear box and other parts of the engine.

When the clutch fails to engage fully, it will likely cause a jerking motion in the car and put extra strain on the gear box. This can lead to damage in the transmission, but also can lead to erratic driving. Both of these can result in dangerous scenarios for

the driver, passengers, and other road users.

The best course of action when you notice your clutch slipping is to immediately take your vehicle in to be examined and fixed by a trained professional. Esgarageleeds.co.uk

PRIVATE LAW - WILLS AND FAMILY

Love is All You Need

partnerships. Meaning barely half the couples in this country are protected by the law. Plus, as only four in 10 adults have a Will, the chances of being in a relationship and not having a Will are quite high.

Love, Wills and the law

Married couples and civil partners will inherit some, if not all, of their spouse or civil partner’s estate when they die without a Will (known as an ‘intestacy’). Unmarried couples don’t have this right and could end up making a complicated court claim to receive any benefit from the estate.

Modern romance

There are also inheritance tax (IHT) advantages available to married couples and civil partners which are not available to unmarried couples. If you think your estate may be liable to IHT, there’s no better time to pop the question. Who said romance was dead?

If proposing, even for practical reasons, is not for you, it’s advisable to have a Cohabitation Agreement in place to avoid disputes in the event of relationship breakdown.

. . . or is it? You may appreciate the sentiment from John Lennon but in terms of love and law, Wills are what you need!

In 2021, the ONS stated that 50.6% of UK couples are married or in civil

You might not believe in the institution of marriage, but ‘common law’ is not a legal definition. It’s a myth that you are automatically entitled to anything from your ‘common law’ partner if they die unless it says so in their Will. Put simply, no marriage (or legal partnership) and no Will might equal no inheritance.

Love is wonderful, and the law can certainly help keep it that way by ensuring you plan ahead. Benefit from choosing one seamless legal team to organise your Wills, plan your estate and set up your Cohabitation Agreement.

Winstonsolicitors.co.uk

With Raffaele Saccoccio from ES Motors Moortown

With Monika Volsing and Teresa Davidson, Private Law Solicitors at Winston Solicitors.

Perfume Mist | Sol de Janeiro

240ml | £35

With the appearance and smell of sunshine in a bottle, fans are addicted to this paradise scented body spray-style perfume. With top notes of pistachio and almond and base notes of vanilla, salted caramel, and sandalwood, this perfume smells tropical without a sickly-sweet element. The scent to the popular Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, fans of the product loved the fragrance so much Sol de Janeiro made it its own perfume. For a scent which follows you, Sol de Janeiro’s secret tip is to spritz a little in your hair!

Boots.com

SCENT OF

Light Blue | Dolce & Gabbana

100ml | £97

Reminiscent of the Mediterranean blue sea, Light Blue is an old classic. Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue provides a soft scent which was so widely loved that Dolce & Gabbana took it up a notch and created Light Blue Intense. With notes of Sicilian lemon and black pepper which are lifted by a gentle floral scent, Light Blue screams summer and lasts all day. Get ready to be complimented if you buy this fragrance.

Boots.com

Stella | Tocca | 100ml | £88.40

Stella by Tocca is a delicately feminine scent, with a sweet citrus fragrance and floral top notes which don’t overpower. Tocca names each of its perfumes after a woman it imagines would wear the scent; Stella is described as a tempestuous Italian beauty who is flirty and sensual. Sure to grab the attention of passers-by, Stella could be the next summer scent for your holiday. Amazon.co.uk

Juliette has a gun | Julliette has a gun parfums | 100ml | £120

The trademark scent of the French company Juliette has a gun parfums has a clean, fresh, and minimally elegant scent. Branded as Not a Perfume, the fragrance is made from a single element called Cetalox, usually used as a base note in perfumeries. But here it takes centre stage, creating, a unique subtle scent on each person who wears it. Often described as like stepping out of a shower put into a bottle, this fresh everyday scent has quickly become a cult classic. Plus, it’s allergen-free! Sephora.co.uk

Gentle Fluidity Gold

Maison Francis Kurkdjian

200ml | £345

A perfume with a high price-tag, but for good reason. Known as one of the best vanilla scented perfumes on the market, Gentle Fluidity Gold delivers a soft and sultry vanilla scent which isn’t too overpowering or saccharine. A perfect day to night scent, this opulent perfume has been known to get better as the day goes on, with the fragrance developing into a warmer, muskier scent.

Selfridges.com

With these summer perfumes to add to your collection prepare to get stopped in the street with compliments.

FIND YOUR FOOTING

Foot pain affects nearly 87% of the population during their lifetime.

It affects physical function and quality of life and can be detrimental for some. So what can be done to help foot pain either acute or chronic and long term?

Elaine Broadbent, Clinical Director and Owner of the Laurels Clinic in Garforth, is a well-respected member of the Royal College of Podiatrists, a lecturer to students, and a professional mentor. She has over 35 years’ experience as a clinician and health care professional, within both the NHS and private practice.

With all the relevant qualifications, skills, and experience of Elaine and her team, the clinic has an excellent reputation with good referral pathways to the best surgeons and consultants.

With the most current, relevant, and effective treatment modalities the clinic can treat patients with appropriate medical care from diagnosis to long term foot health, and pain management of complex clinical conditions. It caters to many high-risk patients with complex medical conditions. Its aim is always to treat patients with respect and dignity and help them recover quickly, working with their health goals and expectations.

The clinic treats many conditions from a simple corn and nail cutting for those who can no longer manage, to verrucae needling,

nail surgery using local anaesthetic, and the use of medical grade lasers for multiple conditions such as sports injuries or plantar fasciitis.

Elaine is passionate about podiatry and in accordance with HCPC standards, has gold standard policies and procedures for your health and safety. The clinic’s aim is to be the best it can and to offer the most effective evidence based best practice care to its patients.

Whether it’s a simple corn or your pain from ingrowing toenails, please call The Laurels Clinic and book a consultation appointment on 0113 232 0060

info@garforthpodiatryclinic.co.uk 28a Main St, Garforth, Leeds LS25 1AA

The Laurels Clinic in Garforth offers quality and experienced care for all foot-related health issues.

The Laurels Clinic

UV and eye health

Many people don’t realise that UV light can also damage their eyes. We now know that being exposed to too much UV light increases your chances of developing eye problems so it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun, even on cloudy days. The most common eye conditions linked to UV light are:

Cataracts

When the lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, it is called a cataract. The World Health Organization estimates that up to 20% of cataracts are related to exposure to UV light. You can have surgery to remove a cataract if it is affecting your vision.

OPTICAL

Sunny Outlook

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Although AMD mainly affects older people, studies have shown that this condition may develop sooner in people who’ve been more exposed to UV light. AMD affects the central part of your vision and is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK.

Pterygium

A pterygium is a benign (non-cancerous) growth that forms on the outer tissues of the eye. Pterygiums are seen a lot in people who live in sunny climates or those who work outdoors.

Pinguecula

A pinguecula is a white or yellow bump on the white of the eye (sclera). In most cases, a pinguecula causes only mild symptoms but can sometimes cause dry eye, which can make your eyes red and uncomfortable.

Photokeratitis

Photokeratitis is caused by short-term but high exposure to UV light, for example,

when it is reflected off snow and in higher altitudes where the atmosphere is thinner. The eye becomes sunburnt from this light, causing sore and painful eyes, blurry vision, and even temporary sight loss.

How to protect your eyes

• Wear sunglasses which carry the CE quality mark. This is important even if you are wearing contact lenses with a UV filter, because the sunglasses will help protect the skin around your eyes, as well as the eye itself.

• If you wear glasses or contact lenses, check that the lenses include a UV filter, for everyday protection.

• Choose sunglasses that sit closer to the eye and wrap around the sides of your face, blocking out more light.

• Wear a wide-brimmed sun hat for more protection.

• Never look at the sun directly – even if it’s just for a few seconds. Jamesdalyopticians.co.uk

BETTER HEARING

Waxing Off

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

Earwax (cerumen) plays an important role in ear health. Earwax is a naturally occurring substance in the external auditory canal which cleans ears and protects them from dust, dirt, infection, and it also lubricates the ear canal. Untreated earwax build-up can lead to hearing loss, irritation, pain in the ear, dizziness, ringing in ears and other issues.

Earwax is formed by dead skin cells and hair with secretions from special glands (the ceruminous gland which is a sweat gland and the sebaceous glands which excrete oil that helps lubricate the skin).

The ear canal is a naturally self-cleaning system. Over time, the earwax moves from the inner part of your ear canal to the entrance of the canal with skin migration and jaw movement.

Symptoms and cause of earwax build-up

Despite its many benefits, earwax can cause issues if too much of it builds up. Its impaction may result in ear pain, itchiness, ringing in ears, hearing loss, vertigo, ear infections or other issues such as a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Some people regularly get blocked ears because they naturally produce a lot of earwax. Other factors that can increase the risk include certain skin conditions like eczema, producing naturally hard or dry earwax, having narrow or hairy ear canals, being elderly and having bony growths in the outer part of the ear canal.

Earwax can also build-up and block ears when objects are frequently inserted into the ear canal, such as cotton buds, ear plugs or hearing aids.

If your ear is blocked never try to remove a build-up with your fingers, a cotton bud, or any other object. This can damage your ear and push the wax further down.

Treatments to remove earwax

First seek advice from a medical professional

such as your GP or an ear, nose, and throat specialist as there may be other underlining issues. Not all earwax removal treatments are suitable for everyone. Your doctor can let you know what treatments may work for you and they can tell you about any associated risks or side effects.

There are several different removal treatments available.

• Eardrops – drops used several times a day for a few days to soften the wax so that it falls out by itself.

• Ear irrigation – a quick and painless procedure where an electric pump is used to push water into your ear and wash the wax out.

• Microsection – a quick and painless procedure where a small device is used to draw/suck the wax out of your ear.

• Instrumentation – where a thin instrument with a small hoop at one end is used to clean your ear and to draw out the wax.

Simply-hearing.com

With James Daly, Founder of James Daly Opticians

Flexible Friends

In honour of International Yoga Day on 21st June find a yoga studio near you to try out some relaxation techniques this summer.

Yoga unwinds the mind and body through a combination of holistic teaching with flexibility and strength training. Different types of yoga will provide a different ratio of this combination. For instance, Yin and Hatha yoga are based around prolonged stretches which invite the mind to let go of tension using breathing techniques, whereas Vinyasa and Ashtanga variations are known for fluid movements and routines. Each practice is good for different moods, abilities, and purposes so the best method is to try them all.

Oakwood Yoga | Oakwood

Oakwood Yoga has classes for all levels of interest hosted on Zoom or in-person by Phillipa. Yoga is deeply integrated into her life as her profile details she believes yoga is about the whole person, rather than just the physical person.

Oakwoodyoga.co.uk

Shadwell Studio | Shadwell

Shadwell Studio is based on Main Street and has a variety of classes including Hot Yoga, which is practised in a heated room to increase perspiration and remove impurities from the body, as well as more widely recognised Restorative yoga and Vinyasa flow classes. A boutique focusing on holistic wellbeing, it has a full timetable of classes over the week which also include Pilates and Barre practices.

Shadwellstudio.co.uk

Yoga With Adriene | YouTube

Can’t get down to a studio for International Yoga Day? DIY! Yoga With Adriene’s channel has 12 million subscribers on YouTube and has over 600 videos for you to explore for free. From five minute to hour long videos, you’re sure to find something which suits you. With the talkative and friendly Adriene Mishler as your teacher you’ll forget there’s a screen between you in an instant. Look out for her lovable dog Benji too.

Youtube.com/@yogawithadriene

Yoga With Zoe | Selected Venues

Yoga With Zoe teaches a combination of Hatha, Hatha flow, and Restorative yoga. Each class lasts 60 minutes and is beginner and intermediate friendly. Its classes are located between Meanwood, Headingley and Chapel Allerton community venues each week and drop-in or multiple class passes can be bought online. Zoe says there is no perfect yoga outfit; come as you

are and your mind and body will thank you.

Yogawithzoe.co.uk

Yoga Kula | Chapel

Allerton

Yoga Kula provides a packed weekly timetable from its studio on Harrogate Road, most of which are all levels classes in Hatha yoga, Healing yoga, Yin, and Hot Vinyasa Flow. It also provides post-natal classes for new mothers where you can bring your baby with you. Classes can be bought singularly or as part of a five to 10 class pass.

Yogakulaleeds.co.uk

We Are Wellness | Headingley

We Are Wellness is based on Hill Road, specialising in yoga, meditation, and therapy. It offers Ashtanga, Hatha, Yin, and Vinyasa variations of yoga in its expansive repertoire of classes and also offers Pregnancy, Seated, and Baby yoga as special classes.

Wearewellness.co.uk

We all want to enjoy the sunny weather that sporadically visits us here in Yorkshire.

But my patients often ask me about the risk of skin cancers and the benefits of maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels. As our bodies make the majority of our Vitamin D from sunlight, how do we balance this risk?

The danger of developing melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer increases as we rack up the amount of time we’ve exposed ourselves to the sun’s UV radiation.

This summer, as many of us head off on our holidays, we can reduce this risk by adopting a ‘Sun-Safe’ approach. This includes using a decent (SPF 50) sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting our sun exposure during peak hours.

Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and our immune system function.

That’s because we typically only get enough sunlight during the summer months for our bodies to create sufficient Vitamin D. As a result, about one in five of us may have low Vitamin D, which can be associated with tiredness and fatigue, chronic generalised pain and, in the longer term, can lead to worse bone health.

If you think you may be at risk of Vitamin D deficiency, it may be worth discussing this with us as this can be corrected through diet or by taking supplements, as needed.

Enjoy your holiday – and stay ‘Sun-Safe’.

Treat yourself to a digital detox

Many patients report stress, anxiety and mental health issues as side-effects of their busy lives.

It’s often our excessive use of digital devices that’s to blame and can be a real trigger. I’m a doctor, but I learned this the hard way years ago on my holidays. I was glued to work, even boarding my plane and working at my hotel. This is not healthy!

Switch off devices, limit screen time, unlink emails and social media from your

phone.Truly allow yourself to rest. Be present. It’s why we take a holiday, after all.

Ear all going on a summer holiday

Ear problems are very common on holiday. Ears often pop during the flight out. It’s painful and takes time to settle.

Try gently popping your ears frequently during the flight. Swallow, pinch your nose and blow out with your mouth closed.

Some patients take decongestant medication the day before, and on, the day they travel.

‘Swimmer’s Ear’ (‘Otitis Externa’, outerear infection), also common, is when water gets stuck in your ear. To reduce the risk, wear a swimming cap or ear plugs.

Never use cotton buds in your ears! That’s like clearing a blocked pipe with bulky boxing gloves.

If you’ve got a comment on question for Dr Aaron Brown, you can email him on team@drfinlays.co.uk

With Dr Aaron Brown of Dr Finlay’s Private Practice

Auctioneers for

Auctioneers for

Auctioneers for

We’re looking for Specialist Collections:

Toys, Military, Coins, Stamps, Comics, Clocks, Watches, Books, Oriental, Vinyl, Jewellery, Silver and all sorts of unusual collectibles. Downsizing, clearing cupboards and attics, need a house clearance?

We’re looking for Specialist Collections:

Toys, Military, Coins, Stamps, Comics, Clocks, Watches, Books, Oriental, Vinyl, Jewellery, Silver and all sorts of unusual collectibles.

We’re looking for Specialist Collections:

Downsizing, clearing cupboards and attics, need a house clearance?

Toys, Military, Coins, Stamps, Comics, Clocks, Watches, Books, Oriental, Vinyl, Jewellery, Silver and all sorts of unusual collectibles.

Downsizing, clearing cupboards and attics, need a house clearance?

Don’t throw anything away until you’ve spoken to us! Fashions are constantly changing.

Regular auctions with live internet bidding throughout the world.

Probate and insurance valuations, house clearances and removals

Don’t throw anything away until you’ve spoken to us! Fashions are constantly changing.

Regular auctions with live internet bidding throughout the worl

Probate and insurance valuations, house clearances and removals

Don’t throw anything away until you’ve spoken to us! Fashions are constantly changing. Regular auctions with live internet bidding throughout the world. Probate and insurance valuations, house clearances and removals Call 07723 319730

As the regions most trusted estate agent, you’re in safe hands with our team.

Book Your FREE Valuation

Call 07723 319730

contact@garydon.co.uk www.garydon.co.uk

contact@garydon.co.uk www.garydon.co.uk

Call 07723 319730

contact@garydon.co.uk www.garydon.co.uk

Co

Moortown: 0113 2370211 Oakwood: 0113 2351361

Book Your FREE Valuation Moortown: 0113 2370211 Oakwood: 0113 2370211 manningstainton.co.uk

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)

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

The Nuffield Hospital 0113 388 2000

2 Leighton Street, Leeds LS1 3EB

The worst enemy of antique furniture is central heating. It is responsible for more damage than any other single cause.

The ideal environment (which is rarely maintained) for furniture is 18°C (65°F and 50% relative humidity [rh]). We humans like to have warm and dry temperatures in the winter, but these are far from ideal conditions for antiques. Without humidification it can fall to dangerous levels of 25% to 30% rh which is the equivalent of placing your piece of furniture in the middle of the Sahara desert! Dry air is responsible for more damage than fire, theft, and flood put together.

Many fine pieces of furniture that have

Feel The Heat ANTIQUES

survived centuries in unheated conditions suffer irreparable damage from just a single winter of central heating. The dangerous times of year are between Chanukah and Passover when we have the central heating blaring out.

When you expose wood to continually dry temperatures it gives up its moisture and shrinks, causing splits along the grain, loosening joints, stopping drawers sliding properly and lifting veneer. If you have pieces with mother of pearl inlay or Boulle, they can easily be moved out of place. Many turnover table tops bow and may not close properly.

We recommend that furniture should not be placed directly in front of a radiator or heater and should be positioned at least two feet from any heat source. You should rotate your furniture on a regular basis. Dramatic changes in temperature should be avoided. Also avoid exposing your antique

PROPERTY

On the Rise

With Mark Manning, Managing Director of Manning Stainton

The summer property market is in full swing and this busy period for the market has already seen some interesting trends emerge. One of the big headlines associated with the housing market is interest rates. The continuous rise in the Bank of England Base Rate has seen the base rate increase from 0.25% at the start of 2022 to 4.5% currently.

Despite rising interest rates, buyer demand has remained strong, with reports indicating a steady and sustained recovery in recent months. But with the undeniable increase in the cost of borrowing, how has the demand for property remained so strong?

The catalyst for this strong demand is the first-time buyer market. This segment has become particularly active. The low supply of rental properties and the financial pressures on landlords have seen the cost of renting increase exponentially. It’s these rising rental costs which are pushing more tenants to look for their first step on the property ladder, in turn sustaining the demand for property.

So, what about property prices? So far this year, most areas have seen a fall in prices of around 3% to 4%. In terms of more recent months, various sources provide different information on this topic. According to the latest live tracker of market sentiment, there has however been very little movement in prices at this moment in time. I expect these static prices to continue in the coming months. However, those looking to buy property will notice a significant volume of property being reduced. Price

furniture to direct sunlight as it can dry out the wood and lead to uneven fading. A good humidifier is recommended and advice on the best types for antique furniture can be obtained from places like the Air Improvement Centre as well as several other companies.

Water damage is another big problem. Recently I went to a house where they made three cups of tea and placed them directly on a £5,000 cabinet! Vases of flowers can mark furniture and cause veneer to lift or surface damage.

Damage to antique furniture can reduce its value by up to 80% and sometimes make it completely unsaleable. Its worth some safekeeping.

Garydon.co.uk

reductions in the market are up 50% when compared to the previous year.

Looking ahead, the stability and demand in the market will continue if interest rates remain relatively stable. If interest rates rise to over 5% in the coming months, we may see a market where prices take more of a step back. However, if rates remain where they are, prices could rise through the summer and into the end of the year.

So, the summer property market is hotting up nicely. While there are some uncertainties on the horizon, we can expect stability and strong demand to continue in the short term. Buyers may be able to find some bargains among the significant volume of reduced properties on the market. Those looking to sell should be aware of the current pricing trends and adjust their expectations accordingly.

Manningstainton.co.uk

With Gary Don, your antiques expert and Auctioneer

UHC SYNAGOGUE HELD A CORONATION AFTERNOON TEA TO CELEBRATE KING CHARLES III.

UHC CORONATION PHOTOS BY ALAN BENSTOCK

THE DRESS CODE WAS OF COURSE RED, WHITE, AND BLUE.

THE MENU WAS DAINTY PETIT FOURS FIT FOR A KING.

A NEW GAME OF CORONATION BINGO WAS CREATED FOR THE PARTY WHERE A FULL HOUSE WON A £10 VOUCHER TO STREET LANE BAKERY.

MARKING ISRAEL’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY, THE FOCUS OF THIS YEAR’S YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATIONS WAS A BAZAAR OF ACTIVITIES AND FOOD HELD AT THE HENRY COHEN CAMPUS.

STREET LANE BAKERY BROUGHT ALONG BLUE AND WHITE ICED DOUGHNUTS TO GO WITH THE THEME.

THERE WAS EVEN SOME BLUE AND WHITE FACE PAINT TO MATCH!

On Trend

Adi Joseph from ByAdiva.com keeps us up to date with this year’s summer fashion trends.

One-piece swimming costumes

Adi noticed a more modest approach to fashion is definitely making a resurgence saying: “the [Princess] Kate effect is still very big, not so revealing but more glamourous.” And this definitely carries over to swimwear as more women are opting for a flattering one-piece which gives a seamless and soft silhouette.

Neutrals

It’s back to basics with neutral colours making a comeback. A clear trend which counters the loud neon we saw a couple years ago is some classic neutral tones. Great for getting your pieces to mix and match, you probably already have some key neutral pieces in your wardrobe. This year expect to see nude and khaki neutrals take centre stage in particular.

Romantic styles

Speaking of Bridgerton influences, romantic styles are very in. From a loose draped fit in the skirt or sleeves to ribbons and bows for detail, this trend is very reminiscent of a fairy tale. Romantic styles also encompass floral prints which are always a bright and fresh summer staple in your wardrobe.

Bold Colours

Bright colour isn’t completely done for though, but it is coming back softer than before. Orange, fuchsia pink, and bold green are especially popular this summer. Pick two and you’ll have yourself a great colour palette or opt for one bold colour as an accent to make your outfit pop.

Maxi dresses

Maxi dresses, especially with gold foil printed on them, are something Adi has been noticing a high demand for. With shows like Bridgerton making a royal and regal affect on our fashion choices, gold foil is a great way to add a touch of shimmer to catch the light without going for a chunky glitter or sequined look.

One lucky reader will bag a luxury spa day for two at Mottram Hall’s Champneys Spa, worth £160.

Win Some R&R

On site you’ll also find an impressive 18-hole Championship Golf Course, a cutting-edge gym and a FIFA accredited football pitch. Awarded AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, Mottram Hall prides itself on the range of dishes on offer, you’re sure to find something to tantalise your taste buds. You can enjoy a relaxing moment with friends and family, tucking into light bites or afternoon tea and on warmer days, sipping on a refreshing drink on the terrace.

In order to win the luxury spa day, including a complementary lunch, answer the following question:

What is the name of the Spa at Mottram Hall?

A well-deserved break is on the cards at the £10 million state-of-the-art Champneys spa at Mottram Hall. The spa has quickly become the most stylish destination in Cheshire, experts from UK’s original health spa, Champneys, have brought with them innovative techniques, the latest technology, and unparalleled experience.

With the classic spa day, you will experience everything the spa has to offer. You’ll also be treated to a complimentary healthy lunch in the stunning surrounds of the Instagram-able new spa café. Your fluffy robe and flip flops await.

Good Spa Guide awarded Champneys Mottram Hall their highest rating of 5 Bubble Luxury, citing its: “striking design, fantastic facilities, and lip-smacking food”, plus the vast treatment menu and new outside area.

The luxury hotel in Cheshire is an 18th century Georgian country house hotel home to 120 stylish bedrooms. Contemporary design, combined with boutique soft furnishings gives each room a cosy and personalised feel. Fairy-tale wedding day packages, celebratory event settings and many meeting and conference rooms are available. So, whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, set within 270 acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, the beautiful Grade II listed building will give you a day to remember.

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 2023

Terms and conditions apply: Prize is nonrefundable and cannot be exchanged. The prize is redeemable Monday to Thursday only and is subject to availability. Valid until 30th September 2023. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Mottram Hall’s databases in order to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

Holocaust Art Installation

Memorial Gestures, an art exhibit in Huddersfield open until 27th July, captures memories of the Holocaust for the remembrance of future generations. Funded by the Ernest Hecht Charitable Foundation and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, the exhibit was inspired by artefacts from the Holocaust Centre North’s collections.

Laura Fisher, an American artist, created a number of tactile objects for the exhibition. Stitched into her colourful cotton knitted blankets are reproductions of handwritten words, sent in letters from men imprisoned in concentration camps to their loved ones in the outside world. One reads: Millionen kusse auch euer bruder (Millions of kisses to your brother too).

Laura said: “I remember sitting in the bedroom of my Airbnb, a pit in my stomach, feeling like nothing I could do would possibly be enough. How could I create art that would make those affected feel seen, cared about, witnessed?

“I hope the work I have created as part of Memorial Gestures helps others to understand the depths of what was lost during the Holocaust, what was stolen from families whose lives were irrevocably changed.”

LJWB Hosts Art Award and Board Games Morning

Leeds Jewish Welfare Board is hosting its 18th Diana Nelson Art Award on 23rd July at MAZCC Community Centre.

All are welcome to enter one of its four categories, Adult, Adult: Supported, Children Year One to Six, and Children Year One to Six: Supported with any piece of art fitting this year’s theme: The Beauty of Yorkshire. All you have to do is submit a picture of your artwork before the deadline to have a chance of winning an award.

Meanwhile LJWB’s weekly board game bonanza is now on every Wednesday morning from 10am until noon at the MAZCC for an entry price of £1 per person. Its a great time for friends and family to enjoy a selection of games, including card games, family games, and strategy games while having fun and using your critical thinking skills.

Breakfast Event Raises £150

The LS8 Meet-Up recently held its second breakfast event, sponsored by Winston Solicitors and hosted by The Leeds Deli. With a mix of businesses from North Leeds everyone welcomed the relaxed and informal environment.

The only item on the agenda was a charity raffle, which raised £150 for children’s poverty charity, Zarach Leeds, to buy a ‘bed-bundle’ – a brand-new bed, mattress and bedding plus pyjamas and hygiene kit. Local philatelist (postage stamp collector), Nigel Grizzard nominated Zarach, having supported them previously.

Pete Alderson, a videographer and photographer, won the delicious raffle prize, provided by The Leeds Deli, and has chosen Leeds Mind to be the next charity for the LS8 Meet-Up to support.

Sinai Brings the Community Together

Sinai recently hosted two events for the community, a special Passover seder and an indoor community fete.

Over 80 members, friends and visitors gathered for Sinai’s first in-person Seder since 2019. Ably led by visiting Rabbi Robert Ash, Sinai welcomed visitors from America, Russia, and down south to enjoy a vegetarian feast by Tali Levy (Fallafel Baffle) followed by delicious Pesach treats prepared by its own in-house team.

It also hosted a fun afternoon of craft stalls, plants, books, workshops, and an art exhibition including works by local artists and members Gillian Holding and Jane Mobach. The event was conceived and planned by Thea Jacob and attracted members from across Leeds and beyond.

Second World War Play Screening Remembers Actor

At Milim a special showing of the recording of the play 1942 Can we Escape from the Pletzl, Paris? will be shown on 5th July, in memory of Lawrence Gorsden, who performed the character of Papa on three occasions.

Preceding the event, on 3rd July Helen Frais will talk about the theme of hidden Jewish French children which she researched extensively and developed into

an illustrated play. This research focused on the background to the Round-up (La Rafle) of thousands of Jewish families in Paris in 1942 and its consequences.

The themes of the play are around the kindness of strangers, trust, resilience, a safe place for refuge and hope; all are metaphors for the desperate situation experienced by those involved and still experienced today by refugees across the world.

Original images of the play have been created as a backdrop and will be presented during the talk to tell the story of the play. Admission is free and donations to the film evening will raise funds for the Bexley Hospital.

Chabad Celebrates Graduate Students

Jewish Students were given a dinner to celebrate their graduation at the Chabad Lubavitch Leeds campus. 140 students were in attendance with the 48 leavers who each shared their experience of campus life in Leeds.

The graduates’ speeches reflected upon how Chabad helped them through challenging times including COVID. Psychology graduate, Amy Levin, said: “Having a weekly Friday night dinner at Chabad made me feel part of a strong Jewish community.” Graduate, Josh Barda, added: “I met my Jewish friends and housemates here.”

Friday night dinner is a free weekly event hosted at Chabad Lubavitch hosted by Rabbi Michoel Danow and his wife Chana Sorah. The Danows also host Jewish courses, social events, and weekly classes while fundraising the £150,000 needed to run the social hub each year.

Chana Sorah says: “It’s so important these events are free. No students should ever have to calculate if they can afford to be a part of the Jewish community.”

LJHA Housing Shabbat

Celebrating 70 years, the Leeds Jewish Housing Shabbat takes place on 17th June, at the MAZ Community Centre, with three separate services in tandem, Masorti, Orthodox and Reform followed by a joint kiddush. More details and start times please call the office 0113 320 7777.

Heart of the Community

THE SOUND OF MUSIC

Former Brodetsky teacher Rebecca Skolnick has combined her passion for teaching with music, to create a new out of school class for children.

Musical Theatre Life is the brainchild of former Brodetsky Primary School teacher, Rebecca Skolnick who discovered her love for music at the age of six.

Spotting a gap in the market, Musical Theatre Life provides a space for children of all abilities to experience, explore and express themselves through musical theatre – with scope to expand to pre-school and adult classes.

Children will be introduced to a host of musicals and given the chance to learn lines and songs to build confidence and gain an understanding of different types of music.

With a wealth of knowledge in music and drama based on her own personal and professional experiences, Rebecca is perfectly placed to run the classes, which will be held at the Avenue Community Centre on a weekly basis.

Rebecca said: “Music has always been a big part of my life, so I wanted to share this with other people to enable them to experience and enjoy all musical theatre has to offer.

“As a child, I would listen to the Sound of Music on record at my Grandparents house and sing along while my Grandpa

ON SCREEN

Holocaust Centre North will present a special screening of a revolutionary documentary at the Everyman Cinema in Leeds.

A special screening of the 2021 documentary, Three Minutes: A Lengthening, will take place at the Everyman Cinema in Leeds on 15th June. The documentary is directed by Bianca Stigter, produced by Steve McQueen, and narrated by Helena Bonham Carter, and the screening will be hosted by Holocaust Centre North.

The screening will be followed by a conversation between the director, Bianca Stigter, and Jenny Kagan, Chair of the Holocaust Survivors’ Friendship Association and an internationally acclaimed artist. The conversation will offer a reflection on ways of remembering the Holocaust in the twenty-first century and will provide an opportunity for questions from the audience.

Three Minutes: A Lengthening is a cinematic meditation on memory and loss, examining and expanding three minutes of extraordinary home footage documenting life in a Jewish community in a small town in Poland called Nasielsk in 1938. More than just a film about the violence and terror involved the destruction of Jewish life in Europe, the widely acclaimed documentary also offers recollections of joy, and reflects on the experiences of Jewish everyday life in Poland before the catastrophe of the Nazi genocide.

All proceeds from the screening will contribute to the costs of Holocaust Centre North and the Holocaust Survivors’ Friendship Association, a registered charity. Holocaust Centre North is an exhibition, archive and learning centre based in

played the piano. This inspired me to go onto have piano and drama lessons, to then take this love into schools, where I have always been heavily involved in extracurricular music classes.

“Being Head of Music at Brodetsky was such a privilege. It has encouraged me to step into a new space where I can now inspire more children to experience musical theatre.”

A qualified teacher for over 15 years, Rebecca will lead the classes with the help of Lucy Sherman, who has a wealth of professional experience in musical theatre.

Three Minutes:

Huddersfield which preserves the stories and memories of survivors of the Holocaust who rebuilt their lives in the North of England.

To book your seat, please visit the Holocaust Centre North website at Hcn. org.uk

LastTheWORD

RITE OF PASSAGE

Rabbi Eli Pink of Chabad Lubavitch discusses the significant milestone of the Bar and Bat Mitzvah.

Chayil, a girl or a boy is viewed as an adult as soon as they turn 12 or 13 years old.

new ideas in the coming years.

This month we celebrated two special occasions.

Our son Yehuda turned Bar Mitzvah and did us proud! This month’s issue covers Bar and Bat Mitzvash, so the timing is great.

There is a misconception that Bar or Bat Mitzvah is something that we do. We are “Bar Mitzvah’ed”. It is a “rite of passage” which conjures up the idea of some sort of rituals that must be undertaken. But in truth, it is something that happens as soon as a child turns of age. Whether they have a party, a call up to the Torah, or a Bat

So, what does a Bar or Bat Mitzvah entail? It is about education. Being an adult in Judaism means that you have obligations and responsibilities so in preparation for my son’s Bar Mitzvah I’ve been spending time studying with my son, making sure he is ready for taking on his role as a fully-fledged part of the Jewish people.

The other special occasion we celebrated this month was a different type of Bar Mitzvah – we marked thirteen years since we started Young Professional events for the Leeds Jewish community. We’ve run many Themed Friday Night Dinners, Holiday Events, Social Events and even Singles Weekends and enjoyed meeting hundreds of young professionals and helping them stay connected to their Judaism. We are looking to continuing to expand and innovate with

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The two milestones were always going to be connected – our first Young Professional event was very shortly before our Yehuda was born. But when we reflected on them, we realised that there was a stronger connection. For many, the Bar or Bat Mitzvah is the pinnacle of their Jewish involvement, and it can often go downhill from there. Over the past thirteen years we’ve been privileged to meet hundreds of men and women who have decided to continue their Jewish and communal involvement.

One of the most powerful ways to make this happen is to make Judaism an exciting proposition for children and teenagers. This summer we will again for running our Camp Gan Israel Summer Camp – the original and still the best!

Details at JudaismLive.com/CGI

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