JLife Manchester September-October 2024

Available at Skopes, Boundary Mills, Colne, BB8 9NW Skopes House of Fraser Manchester, Deansgate, M3 2GQ

IN THISISSUE CONTENTS: SEPT / OCT 2024

Rosh Hashanah

Celebrate the new year by finding out how community members honour the festivities along with our guides to top tipples and home accessories for a sweet near year. Starts page 9.

Education Essentials

Get ready for the new term with the best online courses and tech to enrich learning, a check in with The Friendship Circle and a gift guide for university students. Starts page 70.

And the winners are…

Congrats to our winners Dan Glickman who won a Gold Health Check from Hilton House Private Medical, and Sharon Sasson who won two tickets to Hope Mill Theatre’s fabulous new production, Jewish Hollywood.

PUBLISHER

Elliot Landy

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Richard Shawcross

FEATURES EDITOR

Emily Stone

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Ellie Tyson

DIGITAL MARKETING

Tracey Cleminson

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Blake Ezra

Kate Swerdlow Photography

Lawrence Purcell Photography

Rob Clayton Photography

Tanya Duman Photography

Ryan Mole

CONTRIBUTORS

Arnon Perlman

David Witkin

Dr Sabir

Elaine Bermitz

Esty Brook

Geri Spieler

Hayley Smith

Janet Hill

Joe Ozer

YOUR REGULARFEATURES

JLife Meets…

Two local businesses tell us why you should be supporting British for Buy British Day. Page 23.

Josh Jones tells us about his plans for his new role of Curator at the Manchester Jewish Museum. Page 29.

Comedienne Zoe Brownstone on her debut Edinburgh Fringe Show, A Bite of Yours. Page 54.

Fashion

Discover our pick of the best additions to improve your autumn and office-wear wardrobes. Starts page 20.

Omoda 5

The future is here with the new Omoda range exclusively available at RRG Oldham. Page 21.

Competition

Whitefield based MODS Optical is giving one lucky reader a £100 voucher towards a pair of frames of their choice. Page 26.

Heading South

JLife’s Elaine Bermitz reports back from a weekend away at Brighton and Hove Jewish Community. Page 43.

Sustainability

It’s National Vegetarian Week and Zero Waste Week this month. We look at the best spots in Manchester. Starts page 48.

Hidden Gems

We discover some fabulous South East Asian alternatives to Bali. Page 50.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

As the anniversary of October 7th approaches we pray for the return of the hostages. With support needed more than ever, we spoke to the Israeli Tourist Office to see how visitor numbers look after new flight schedules were announced by Arkia Airlines.

JLife’s Yom Tov edition features your greetings, tipples and a look in to two reader’s homes in the run up. It's time for our Education Special again as we check the latest results and meet the BWJPS

Josh Jones

Liran Bowers

Maidi Majer

Marc Levy

Michael Bowers

Murray Patt

Rabbi Greg Bank

Yael Mohaliver Brif

Zoe Brownstone

PUBLISHED BY:

Available at Skopes, Boundary Mills, Colne, BB8 9NW Skopes House of Fraser Manchester, Deansgate, M3 2GQ

SKOPES.CO.UK

Calling All Bookworms!

Celebrate Bookshop Day by heading out to one of Manchester’s independent bookshops, full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Page 64.

Colour Me Trendy

We take a look at the colour trends that are predicted to take the interior design world by storm in the upcoming year. Page 66.

And Relax…

Transport yourself to a world of luxury by bringing the spa to the comfort of your own home with our top picks to reach ultimate tranquillity and serenity. Page 84.

new deputy head, plus I visited the amazing Chai Cancer Care facilities at Heathlands Village. The Manchester Jewish Museum has a new curator and we check out what’s new around the city, including a new futuristic car, Omoda 5, available only in... Oldham!

You can win a £100 voucher thanks to MODS Optical, and as usual some great content to keep you busy over the Chag. Check out daily updates online and socials.

Enjoy, happy new year and well over the fast.

Asda (Pilsworth, Radcliffe); Booths Hale Barns; Boyko; Brackmans; Celia’s Kitchen; Dunham Forest Golf Club; Heathlands; JS; Jackson’s Row Synagogue; Kosher City; Let’s Fress Deli; Lulu’s Kitchen Cheadle; Maccabi Centre; Menorah Synagogue (Sharston); One Stop (Bury); Sainsbury’s (Altrincham, Cheadle Hulme, Heaton Park; Sainsbury’s Local (Hale, Prestwich); State Fayre Bakery and Café; Tesco (East Didsbury, Prestwich, Cheetham Hill); Didsbury, Hale, Cheadle Hulme, Wilmslow); Tesco Extra (Altrincham, Bury, Handforth); Total Fitness; United Co-op (Altrincham, Unsworth); Whitefield Golf Club; WM Morrisons (Whitefield).

ESTI HALPERN AND MIKEY GLASS RECENTLY TIED THE KNOT!

THEY WERE MARRIED AT THE VERMILLION CINNABAR.

THE CELEBRATION DREW QUITE A CROWD!

WHILE THE RECEPTION WAS ONE FOR THE AGES.

HARRIET DEAN AND STEPHEN RABINOWITZ WERE ALSO RECENTLY MARRIED.

THE CEREMONY TOOK PLACE AT THE MIDLAND HOTEL.

THE HAPPY COUPLE TOOK PHOTOS ON THE STREETS OF MANCHESTER!

BEFORE HEADING BACK INSIDE TO DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY.

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY FULLY FUNDED

The Friendship Circle Receives £19,740 National Lottery Award to Expand Art & Creative Programme.

Hobbies4Life, an initiative run by the Friendship Circle, has been awarded a £19,740 National Lottery Award from the National Lottery Community Fund. This generous funding will enable the charity to expand its holistic support programme, designed to help its members find meaning and purpose through exploring new hobbies.

Hobbies4Life offers a diverse range of activities led by professional instructors and supported by the dedicated staff and volunteers of The Friendship Circle. The programme aims to cater to a wide array of interests, ensuring there is something for everyone, whether it be improving creative art and writing skills, learning to cook, dance, sing, or even play the drums!

The expanded programme includes:

• Art Therapy – Weekly sessions focused on developing fine motor skills.

• Dance – Fortnightly classes designed to help alleviate stress.

• Singing – Monthly uplifting get-togethers that bring joy and community spirit.

• Drumming – Monthly interactive classes that are fun and energizing.

• Creative Writing – Monthly classes aimed at fostering self-expression.

• Cookery – Monthly online classes that develop essential life skills.

The Friendship Circle is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its members through meaningful activities that promote wellbeing, creativity, and social connection. This funding will not only help the charity broaden its offerings but also ensure that more individuals can benefit from its supportive community.

"We are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery Players and to the National Lottery Community Fund for recognising the value of meaningful activities and providing us with the means to expand our programme," said Esty

Bruck, Programme Director of The Friendship Circle. "With this support, we can continue to inspire and empower our members to discover new passions and skills that bring joy and fulfilment to their lives."

For more information on any of the programmes contact esty@friendshipcircle.co.uk

Esty Bruck

For Esty, getting ready for the festival is a busy time for the family, with lots to be done before the celebrations begin, and it’s extremely important to convey the spiritual nature of Rosh Hashanah to her children: “We try and keep it quite serious. The highlight of the festival for me is hearing the shofar be blown in shul. It's a very meaningful time of year and I try to make sure that comes across to the kids. In my house there’s a lot of excitement when Yom Tov is coming up. That’s something that I got from my mum and I try to make sure my kids are getting that too. So it’s never a burden that we have lots to do. I get them new clothes and make it exciting. I use the opportunity to talk to my kids about how we’re the link in the chain of all the generations who have been celebrating before, and how their children will do it someday. There's also a reflective nature to this Yom Tov. Looking back over the past year and ahead to what we want the next year to look like is something that it's really important to me to share with the kids."

Like many of us, one of the central parts of the Bruck family celebrations is the spread: “There’s lots of food! My husband is a chef, so he makes lots of really nice food. I decorate the table nicely, with bees and honeycomb and cute stuff. We don’t eat meat or chicken at home, so that’s what it looks like. Lots of veggie dishes, fish, and lovely fresh salads. And we always make honey cakes. To be honest, a lot of the focus is on the prep, rather than the meal when we sit down – it’s hard when you’ve got kids, it’s late, everyone’s crabby, you know! The importance is in the prep and everyone getting ready together. But once it starts, its lovely to be around family and enjoy the time.”

Esty also has extra work to do, as her work at the Friendship Circle, a charity which enriches the lives of children and adults with disabilities in our community, picks up for festivals: “We often have members over for Yom Tov. A couple of years ago we spent the first night of Rosh Hashanah with a lot of the members who didn’t have anywhere else or weren’t with family. And for the last four years, we’ve given Rosh Hashanah packs to every Friendship Circle member. That’s 150 packs which adds another layer of hectic!”

We check in with members of our community to see what celebrating the new year looks like for them.

Maidi Majer

Much of Maidi’s new year celebrations with her family will seem familiar to many of us: “I think we do what everyone else does, have apple and honey, and a round challah. No salt on the table, only honey for a sweet new year.”

As part of the yearly traditions, Maidi and family will visit a retirement home to celebrate with the residents: “What is special to me is that we always go to a home, because my husband is a Cohen. Just saying: ‘Good Yom Tov’ to the older people means so much to them. I feel like Rosh Hashanah is a time where I want to do things better than I do usually. To better myself and be nicer to people.”

While Maidi’s relatives are spread across the globe, she can still count on guests each year: “I’m from Germany and my husband is from Italy. My mother-in-law moved back to Switzerland when her husband passed away, so unfortunately she does not come to us, though she does come for Pesach. Each year various family members are around. My children have grown-up and married, so now we share them with the other side. It means a lot when they come, it’s a lovely time that brings families together.”

It’s not only family who come to Maidi’s celebrations, and regular guests can look forward to Maidi’s signature dishes for the festival: “I also have people that we invite, who need it. I volunteer for the Friendship Circle. Whenever they call me I have them for Shabbos. It means so much to them and it’s such a small thing for me to do. I like cooking and I like making special things and the kids know that’s what I make. There’s a lovely apple cake that I make, and a round challah with streusel and honey.”

We spoke to author Geri Spieler about her new novel, based on the true story of her grandmother’s remarkable journey.

Journey of Resilience

Regina of Warsaw: Love, Loss and Liberation follows Regina Anuszewicz – who is based on Geri Spieler’s grandmother – and her journey of survival during horrific pogroms in Poland in the early 20th century. Her journey takes her to Los Angeles, with her three daughters. The girls were put into a Jewish orphanage, where they lived until they were 18, because Regina couldn’t afford to look after them by herself.

The trauma and hardship that Regina experienced shaped her life and ignited her passion to take an active role in fighting antisemitism, in the novel and in real life. We spoke to author Geri Spieler about the book, which is a deeply personal homage to an immensely resilient woman.

Geri described the beginning of this true story and how the rage of violence shook the town and Regina’s hopes: “My grandma left Warsaw when she was maybe 20 years old with a baby boy. She was by herself and travelled thousands of miles because she witnessed a pogrom in 1906.”

Readers are exposed to Regina’s inner monologue throughout the book: “I wanted to make it even more personal, and by being inside her head that way, to me, it’s like I

know this person. There’s a passage where her parents tell her not to talk about all these horrible things she’s reading about, that it’s not appropriate at dinner, and that they’ll talk about it later, but we hear Regina say that later never came. I used this technique as a way of building a case of the denial from her family, about just how bad everything was,” she explained, as Regina spent years trying to convince her family to follow her and escape Poland, but they did not believe the antisemitism was as bad as she claimed.”

Because she witnessed extreme violence against Jews firsthand, she knew she had to get out of there. She was a gutsy young woman who believed so strongly in what she saw coming.

Geri spoke about the fascinating journey from Warsaw after her mother gave her son an address and names of people that she’d found

in her grandmother’s belongings after she’d passed away. She said: “My son wanted to see if we could find the apartment, despite the address being over 50 years old. I didn’t think we could find anybody that was alive, nobody has. We took it to the hotel concierge and asked if she could find a phone number for the address and the next day, she’d found one! The man on the other end of the phone came to the hotel and pulled out a small photograph that was of my cousin’s wedding.

“So, grandma had been corresponding with these two people who turned out to be her nephews. It’s an amazing story because a lot of people go back to Poland to look for their relatives that have died, but just want to see where they lived,” continued Geri.

Geri believes that this book mirrors today’s society in some ways, and that readers can learn a lesson from and relate to Regina.

“There’s a rise of racism across the world, and it’s a cautionary tale that I never thought we would see. It’s time to step back and say ‘hey, what’s happening?’ It’s frightening. Like Regina said, we need to pay attention. That’s the lesson from this book.”

Stop Snoring Procedure

With the ban of the sale of petrol and diesel cars in the UK due to hit in 2035, more and more brands are releasing electric versions of their original models. Here are some great options being released this year for a range of budgets.

Citroën ë-C3 | Late 2024

At just under £22,000, the Citroën ë-C3’s price undercuts most of the electric vehicle market. The C3 has been around since 2002 and has sold around 5.6 million cars in the last 22 years, so it’s a very popular little car. This new fourth-generation electric model is the first of the C3 range to be offered with an electric powertrain.

Despite it being smaller than most of its counterparts, the ë-C3 is usefully compact on the outside but has more room than expected on the inside. Maybe not the best choice for large families, or those with big dogs as the boot is only 310 litres, but there’s plenty of passenger space for smaller families and pups!

The cheaper price tag of the ë-C3 doesn’t mean that Citroën have scrimped on the features, as the car includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accompanied by audio functions, and a built-in navigation and charger search function.

The Citroën ë-C3 is the perfect model for those looking for an affordable electric car that doesn’t feel cheap, comes from a familiar brand, and has a bit of style to it. Regardless of it not being the fastest vehicle available, it’s modern, not cramped, and has a very usable range and charging performance.

Lexus RZ 300e SUV | Late 2024

Citroën ë-C3

0-60mph: 11 seconds

Top speed: 84mph

Range: 199 miles

Charging time: 7 hours

Starting price: £21,990

Lexus is extending its RZ range for this year with the introduction of the new RZ 300e, a front-wheel drive version of its all-electric luxury SUV which starts at just under £58,000.

The RZ is a refined electric vehicle for those who want a well-made, well-finished interior, and value an industry-leading warranty package. As the luxury division of the Toyota, the RZ has the quality and dependability of the brand, with an exclusive and material richness.

The car is equipped with many top of the range features, including a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity, full keyless go, electrically adjustable front seats, wireless phone charging, a reversing camera with all-round parking sensors, a panoramic roof, dual-zone climate control, and lots of safety and driverassistance technology. For those looking for cosiness during the ride, radiant heaters are placed at the bottom of the front console to quickly and directly heat passengers’ legs and feet.

Perfect for bigger families, the boot is around 520 litres, and the simplicity-focused interior design is very spacious. Lexus have removed many buttons and switches from the dashboard and doors meaning that most of the control of the vehicle’s functions are all in one handy place in the touchscreen display.

Lexus RZ300e

0-60mph: 7.8 seconds

Top speed: 100mph

Range: 297 miles

Charging time: 11 hours

Starting price: £57,895

NEWS IN BRIEF

New Season at the Jewish Theatre Company

The Jewish Theatre Company (JTC) has announced its 2024/25 season which is brimming with an array of dynamic and diverse programming. There’s plenty going on at the JTC over the next few weeks that will engage audiences of all ages. This season ties in with the JTC’s 50th anniversary celebrations that will mostly be taking place next year.

Get ready for a night of excitement and family friendly competition at the entertainment quiz on 29th September at Bury Hebrew Congregation. The quiz will challenge participants with questions on music, musicals, TV, film, theatre, and more.

The 50th anniversary celebrations will be kicked off in November with the first meeting, auditions, and the start of rehearsals for the 2025 shows, a delightful and heartwarming production of Shrek the Musical and a special anniversary play which will be a tribute to JTC’s journey which will celebrate the beloved cultural institution.

Find out more and book your entertainment quiz tickets at: Thejtc.co.uk

The Centre Fundraising Success

The first major fundraiser by The Centre has smashed its original fundraising target of £150,000, raising over £165,000. Bike

For Our Youth, which took place on 28th July, saw volunteer cyclists ride from Broughton Jewish Cassel Fox Primary School in Salford, up to Bury and Bolton, through Failsworth, and then back to the starting line at the school.

The Centre is a collection of several smaller organisations with a shared mission that provide a space for Manchester’s Jewish boys who may have no other framework to help care for their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. The money raised from the charity bike ride will contribute to being a lifeline for the people the charity helps, offering them the home they deserve.

From helping with job hunting, to creating a safe space and providing a meal, and everything in between, The Centre helps teenage boys and young men that are encountering significant life changes to better their situation.

Fed Farm Day Returns

Enjoy a fun-filled family friendly day at The Fed on 8th September with the return of its farm day at Heathlands Village care home, after a five-year hiatus. The day will see the launch of The Fed’s Big Birthday Appeal.

The event will see the care home’s lawns and gardens transformed into a petting zoo, with plenty of other activities throughout the village.

There’ll be something for all ages to enjoy, with farm animals, donkey rides, soft play, giant games, balloon modelling, face painting, biscuit decoration, bookmark and card making, food and ice cream stalls, and much more to do and see. A story corner will also be present at the farm day, led by PJ Library which is an initiative that provides free books to Jewish children across the UK.

Representation at Collabor8Bury

Russell Conn, Chair of the Education Advisory Group, and Graham Gordon of J4S teamed up with Board of Deputies Vice President, Jeremy Michelson, to represent the Jewish community with a stall at the Collabor8Bury event held by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Collabora8Bury brings together different faith groups, social action groups, and the emergency services to emphasise the diverse nature of those living in Bury. Held on 24th July, the event was the first since the pandemic.

The family friendly event saw multiple activities through the day including, live music and entertainment, a variety of food from different cultures who call Bury their home, multiple religious and cultural stalls providing information, and much more.

Funds Released for Transport Projects

Members of the Bee Network Committee have approved the release of more than £20 million to progress with key transport infrastructure projects in Greater Manchester.

The money will contribute towards Middleton’s Streets for All scheme, will ensure that high-quality walking, wheeling, and cycling connections are developed in and around Middleton town centre, supporting the wider plan and ambition to unlock regeneration around the Market Place. This scheme will create new housing and establish of a new cultural quarter that will involve reconfiguring the Market Place roundabout to include a new public space, better segregated cycling provision around the roundabout, and improvements to the underpass to allow sufficient width for shared use between pedestrians, wheelchair users, and cyclists.

Another top priority of the Bee Network Committee is improving bus routes around Greater Manchester, improving the reliability of services between Rochdale, Oldham, and Ashton, along with bettering connections to and from bus stops and the environment along key routes.

Walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure is a key component of the Bee Network, enabling people to opt for active modes of travel for shorter journeys through the provision of high-quality, safe and well-connected routes. The money will contribute towards schemes improving these routes across Greater Manchester in areas such as Trafford, Chorlton, Leigh, Wigan, and Standish.

Children’s Book Inspired by Bleakholt

Sue Blunt, from Heywood, is a former dog-walking volunteer at Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Ramsbottom who has had her first book published called The Foot of the Night.

Sue got the idea for her first book when she adopted her dog, Dot, from the charity last year after it supported Dot with post operation complications, monitoring her progress and helping with the substantial cost of treatment. Sue wrote The Foot of the Night to inspire children to love and respect all animals, no matter what their background.

Published under the pseudonym Molly Kirkby as a tribute to her late mother, The Foot of the Night is aimed at children ages eight to 12 and follows Gascon – a dog that’s based on one of Sue’s dogs who she adopted from a small Pyrenean village – who is shy, lost, and friendless on his adventures through the mountains, finding friendship and loyalty along the way.

The book is available to order on Amazon and all proceeds from the sales will be split between Bleakholt and a French animal shelter.

New Arrivals

Check out the hottest new businesses making a home in Manchester

Ancoats Deli | Ancoats | Open now

Tucked away in an Ancoats courtyard, Ancoats Deli is the newest addition to the area’s bustling food and drinks scene. The new deli and suntrap serve a range of sandwiches, coffee, cheese, charcuterie, wines, spritzes, and martinis. Manchester bakery and neighbour, Companio, provides the deli with freshly baked bread for the sandwiches, including a classic egg sandwich of soft-boiled eggs, jammy yolks, dijonnaise, and watercress. The cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as the wines that accompany them are also provided by local suppliers and businesses, including the Crafty Cheeseman and Yapp Brothers. Whether you need everyday pantry essentials, or supplies for a picnic, Ancoats Deli has got you covered.

@Ancoatsdeli

Bakehouse32 | Stretford Foodhall | Open now Bakehouse32 has expanded to a new location in the heart of Stretford town centre, after building a large fanbase among local residents. Its famous New York style pizza will still be available in the evening, alongside a new menu of pasta and side dishes. The pizzeria has new extended opening hours which cover both a breakfast and lunch service where there’s a whole range of freshly baked pastries and cakes, as well as coffee and other refreshments. Other menu highlights include a number of bagels and sandwiches made with freshly made focaccia which is baked in-house. Bakehouse32.co.uk

LOOKFANTASTIC | Altrincham | September

Following the success its pop-up shop in London over the Christmas period last year, online beauty giant LOOKFANTASTIC is set to open its first retail concept store on Altrincham high street in September, with the date TBC. Shoppers will be able to browse products from over 90 of the site’s biggest brands in person, including NARS, Sol De Janeiro, Yves Saint Laurent, and many more. The shop will also offer a range of personalised beauty services for customers to experience in person.

Lookfantastic.com

The Reach at Piccadilly | City Centre

Open now

Located less than two minutes away from Piccadilly Station, The Reach at Piccadilly hotel has opened as the latest addition to Marriott Bonvoy’s Tribute Portfolio brand. The hotel towers over the Rochdale Canal and boasts 215 guest rooms and eight luxury suites that have been designed with a nod to Manchester’s industrial heritage, using the materials that were once carried down through the canal: coal, cotton, timber, wool, limestone, and salt. The restaurant in the hotel, Lock 84, also incorporates the city’s heritage in a variety of ways. It offers an allday dining experience of speciality small plates, using the best, sustainably sourced and seasonal ingredients from local suppliers.

Thereachmcr.com

Louis | Spinningfields | Autumn 2024

The team behind Tattu and Fenix are bringing a new offering to Manchester with Louis, an Italian American restaurant inspired by the streets of New York. The venue will have live music entertainment five nights a week, from soul singers and pianists, to jazz quartets and full swing bands, giving each evening an entirely unique experience. Akin to the era that has inspired much of Louis, the restaurant will encourage a no-photos environment, with an emphasis on lived-experience over content creation. The menu will feature handmade fresh pasta that will be made onsite from a dedicated pasta workshop, and a carefully curated drinks menu which focuses on American classic cocktails.

Louisrestaurants.com

How does Chai care?

“This is my tree of Chai, my tree of light.

Through the art group, we fi nd creativity, renewal, community and exceptional care.

We discover we are so much more than a cancer diagnosis.

That’s the miracle of Chai.”

The Chai Art Workshop Group (Artist, Elaine Arenson)

For more information on our extensive range of specialised services and care across the UK, please call our Freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit www.chaicancercare.org

Chai Lifeline Cancer Care Registered Charity No. 1078956

Take Care

Providing a range of therapies, creative programmes, and wellbeing activities, Chai Cancer Care supports those affected by cancer right here in Manchester.

Chai Cancer Care stands at the forefront of providing essential support and services to those in the Jewish community affected by cancer. The name of the charity, “Chai” means life in Hebrew, and the organisation aims to offer comfort and support to those affected by cancer. With a strong presence across the UK including Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool, Chai Cancer Care ensures that individuals and families receive holistic care tailored to their unique needs.

Chai currently serves 173 clients at its Prestwich base on the site of the Fed at Heathlands Village. It’s a state-of-the-art facility with a warm welcome, offering therapy rooms, a play therapy room, art room and even a gym as Chai prides itself on offering a variety of therapeutic and supportive options designed to address both physical and emotional wellbeing of not only the patient, but the whole family. Whilst Chai and the Fed do sometimes work together, they operate separately in their own centres within Heathlands Village.

Chai Cancer Care’s Unit in Manchester offers:

• Counselling: Professional support for emotional and psychological challenges.

• Hypnotherapy: Techniques to manage phobias, anxiety, and stress related to cancer and its treatment.

• Complementary Therapies: Including reiki, reflexology, Indian head massage, aromatherapy massage, and hot stone massage.

• Foot Care: Essential services for maintaining foot health.

• Art Group: Creative expression to support emotional health.

• Physiotherapy: Physical rehabilitation and strength-building exercises.

• Acupuncture: Pain relief and holistic health benefits.

• Gym Assessment and Exercise Programme: Tailored fitness plans with a physiotherapist.

• Remote Dietary/Nutrition Advice: Guidance on maintaining a healthy diet.

• Remote Benefits Advice: Assistance with navigating financial support options.

• Men’s Support Group: A space for men to share experiences and support each other.

• Pilates: Classes to improve physical fitness and wellbeing.

• Online Support Groups: Virtual communities for ongoing support.

• Play Therapy: Therapeutic play for children, available in-centre and in schools.

Chai is also currently seeking a Music Therapist to expand its holistic offerings, so if you or anyone you know would be interested in the position, please do get in touch.

The charity’s clinical services are continuously evolving to meet the growing demands of its clients, and it even supports children, both in schools and at its centres in both Manchester and Leeds. Hypnotherapy has seen a significant increase in uptake, helping clients with phobias and anxiety related to their treatment. Additionally, Chai has introduced hypnotherapy for children to help them cope with upcoming appointments and treatments.

The team now has an Adult Art Therapist who uses creative tools to facilitate therapeutic expression. In Manchester, some of the more popular offerings include a weekly Pilates class, art sessions, and a fortnightly Men’s Support

Group. For those who aren’t able to make it to the centre, there are also remote support groups for parents, BRCA clients, and others needing ongoing support.

Sadly, most people will be affected by cancer in their lives, either through their own diagnosis, or that of someone close to them. This is something the team at Chai are all too aware of, with each of them having chosen to work with Chai due to their own personal experiences with the disease. A growing demand for support has seen the charity recruit additional staff, including a part-time Client Services Manager and a full-time Administrator.

Chai also partners with the NHS and Jnetics, a Jewish genetic charity, to offer a BRCA testing programme. This initiative provides BRCA testing to individuals with at least one Jewish grandparent, and Chai supports those who test positive for the gene mutation with counselling, complementary therapies, and physiotherapy, if needed.

The team at Chai Cancer Care’s unit in Manchester is dedicated to providing a professional, confidential, and caring environment for its clients. They are inspired by their determination and strength, and strive to expand their services to meet their needs continually. The Jewish community’s supportive nature is unique, and the team at Chai is proud to be a part of it.

For further information please call:

Gerry Singer Head of Operations –Service awareness and fundraising 0161 772 4065

Amanda Newdall Head of Clinical Services New client and existing enquiries 0161 772 4064

Chaicancercare.org

What those using the services think…

“Chai has shown me how important it is to have people who are more than therapists, they lift and support you when life can feel frightening. It’s like having a second family. Leaving Chai each week I feel lighter in body and soul.”

“The thought of going to Chai is very reassuring to me, a happy place.”

“Entering the Chai department is like entering into my secret hideaway from the world.”

“I am overwhelmed that there is such a place available for my husband and I to come to each week. The services offered that we can access are vast. The fact that we don’t need to pay for these services is such a blessing, as we would never be financially able to, as finance is usually an extra stress when dealing with cancer.”

Office Staples

Deep coral orange linen blend blazer

Oliver Bonas | £75

Perfect to add some colour to your formal wardrobe, this linen blend blazer from Oliver Bonas is both lightweight and stylish. Whether it’s for meetings in the summer, or for brightening up grey and wintery office days, this blazer can be your go to in all seasons, for all occasions.

Oliverbonas.com

Polly jersey jumpsuit | Joe Browns | £50

This jumpsuit from Joe Browns is an effortless piece to just throw on and go, while still looking put together and professional. It’s made with a soft jersey fabric, has front pockets, front pleats to emphasis the flattering wide-leg design, and is also available in petite. It’s not only great for the office, but a staple to have in your everyday wardrobe to dress up or down as you please.

Joebrowns.co.uk

Celini slingback courts | Dune London | £90

Available in four different colours, the Celini slingback court shoes can be your new office go-to, no matter what your style. Slingback courts are a Dune London signature, so you know you’ll get your money’s worth. Crafted from the finest leather, the strap of the pointed-toe silhouette is detailed with a supportive buckle for the ideal fit. The heel is only 6cm which means there’s guaranteed comfort that will last all day.

Dunelondon.com

Silk floral foulard print tie | John Lewis | £25

Ties are one of the best ways for men to brighten up a dull, run of the mill office outfit, while still looking professional. This silk floral tie from John Lewis has three different colour combinations to elevate your wardrobe. Crafted from pure silk, the tie provides a subtle nod to smart design and is a staple accessory in your formal attire.

Johnlewis.com

Padded mac with Stormwear™ | Marks and Spencer | £130

Water-repellent technology on this mac from Marks and Spencer’s will have you covered no matter what the weather. It’s equipped with a removable lining so you can transport it from a light raincoat into a cosy layer for colder temperatures. It’s cut to an easy regular fit, perfect for comfort as well as functionality. Combining classic and contemporary styles, this mac is available in black and navy so can elevate any of your office looks all year round.

Marksandspencer.com

Slim fit Oxford striped shirt | Crew Clothing | £59

A good quality shirt is an office wardrobe must, and this one from Crew Clothing is an excellent choice. There are four different colours to suit any and all styles. It’s a soft, high-quality cotton material which is finished with a stylish button-down collar, with Crew Clothing’s iconic crossed oars logo subtly stitched on the chest.

Crewclothing.co.uk

RRG Group has launched one of only 60 dealerships in the UK to offer the new OMODA range. The North West’s premier car retailer has 21 branches and a range of marques, and now has the Chinese high spec SUV marque in its roster at its new Oldham site, just minutes from north Manchester, where you can view and test drive the excellent 290 T 1.6 turbo petrol OMODA5, soon to be joined by electric and plug in hybrid editions early next year.

With a modest price point for such amazing spec, wrapped with a seven-year warranty and roadside assistance and five year servicing, there is no better mid-range purchase right now. Stylish grille, 18" two-tone alloy wheels, floating roof, dynamic fastback bodywork in an array of cool colours and

T-shaped daytime running lights emphasize the sporty modern look, while inside highlights include sporty heated and ventilated front seats, intelligent climate control, high resolution voice controlled screen with nav, wireless charging, remote start, and a panoramic sunroof to enjoy. Performance is exceptional too, with an average 6.9L per 100km. 0-60 in 7.9 seconds and a 5-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating.

The new OMODA range is made by Chery, a Chinese automobile manufacturer owned by the Wuhu municipal government. Founded in 1997, it is already the fifth largest automobile manufacturer group in China with 1,881,316 vehicles sold in 2023. Its set to take the UK by storm with this latest model starting from £25,235 for the Comfort trim; this month RRG Oldham is offering low deposit and

low-cost finance options with a manufacturer contribution making it an exciting affordable addition to mid-sized SUV options.

RRG OMODA

390 Manchester Rd, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 7PQ

0161 708 2208

Rrg-group.com/omoda/dealerships/rrgomoda-oldham

Puppy Love

To celebrate National Dog Day we asked for your favourite pup pics. Here are a selection... and the winning pic which bags a PetProtector blanket from Pup & Kit!

Bailey & Baxter Chewie the Cockapoo Ziggy

Doni

Loki the Newfoundland Milo Rocky

Rosie Lee

Rupert Sandy Shimky Dorman

Shimky Dorman

Sonney Dante the Cocker Spaniel

Sonu the Bichon Frise Sunnie the Cavapoo

Joni

Buy British Day is coming up on 3rd October, and a great way to support British businesses is to check out the ones on your local high street! We spoke with two Manchester independents, Lesters Nurseryworld in Cheetham Hill and Hill’s Bakery in Hale, to find out why you should be supporting British businesses.

LESTERS NURSERYWORLD –

Liran & Michael Bowers

The Background

Lesters Nurseryworld was founded by our parents Marion and David Bowers in 1984. This year we are proud to celebrate our 40th anniversary. As the business has grown so have we as a family and it makes us proud to continue serving new generations and meeting customers whose parents shopped at Lesters when they were starting their family.

Starting a family is an exciting time but it is also daunting and can be confusing for parentsto-be. Websites provide a lot of information, but nothing can compare to seeing, trying, and testing a pram in store with an expert demonstration. There are not many nursery stores that stock all the leading brands, but all our customers can view the products in store and make a true comparison. We also reserve our best prices for our in-store customers and have special offers that cannot be seen online. We stock high quality British brands such as

Rule Britannia!

In honour of Buy British Day on 3rd October, we speak with two Manchester-based businesses selling British products.

Independent vs Chain

It’s the personal level of service that our mum and dad set out before us, that we keep at the heart of the business. We are fortunate to have a caring and dedicated sales team who enjoy meeting parents and grandparents-to-be and being part of their family journey.

We work closely with our brands and often run special in store events with extra offers and free goody bags. All customers at Lesters Nurseryworld have the option to take their purchase home straight away or we offer free storage until the baby is born. All our staff are car seat trained to test and fit in the customer’s car and we offer free local delivery.

HILL’S BAKERY – Janet Hill

The Background

My great-grandmother Mary Helen started the bakery in 1912. However, it does go back further than that. Hill’s Biscuits was a big factory in Ashton Under Lyne. It started off as a grocery confectionary and then expanded. The family lost control of the business in 1906 and my great-grandfather had an accident and died, leaving Mary Helen with six children.

She came to Hale and started the business, and my grandfather was her eldest child, so he took over the reins, and then my father from him, and Ian and I didn’t intend to go into the business, but kind of did by default. So I’m the fourth generation.

We are now the only bakery in Hale and the oldest in the area. Some people do use the word institution to describe us. People are just used to us being here and expect us to be here. But you’re only ever as good as your products. If we weren’t providing good products, then I don’t think that our history and longevity would make a difference.

Independent vs Chain

We make everything fresh and daily, more or less. 95% of what we sell from bread through to cake and all our sandwiches are made onsite. It’s the idea of using simple ingredients and making something nice. And we have a lot of really nice cakes, some of them are recipes we’ve made for years, and some of them have started more recently. And those are all made from scratch in-house by our bakers.

Egg, iCandy, and Silver Cross, allowing you to get the best quality and support British businesses and shopping locally.

Our hotel has everything you need for your forthcoming Bar & Bat Mitzvah. Not only do we have stunning rooms for your party, we also offer stylish accommodation for you and your guests. With a remarkable history spanning over 700 years, our magnificent hotel seamlessly merges historic charm with modern amenities.

Events You’ll Love

There’s always plenty going on in Manchester, so here’s our pick of events coming to the city soon.

Jurassic World: The Exhibition | Trafford Centre | Until 3rd November

This family-friendly exhibit is based on one of the biggest blockbuster franchises in cinematic history. Visitors can walk through the iconic Jurassic World gates, explore richly themed environments, and encounter a number of life-sized dinosaur models. Guests can imagine what it would have been like to roam among the mighty creatures, with Velociraptors, including fan-favourite Blue, a Brachiosaurus, and the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex on display. The exhibition promises to immerse audiences of all ages in scenes from the beloved films. Jurassicworldexhibition.com

Synagogue Nights | Manchester Jewish Museum

Throughout October and November

Celebrate Manchester Jewish Museum’s synagogue’s 150th anniversary with a series of intimate evening performances throughout autumn. Starting in October, audiences can see theatre shows and live music, and even join a special dining event at the museum. The performances will showcase a multitude of genres, from contemporary Ladino and classical Italian to jazz folk and indie alternative. Visit Manchester Jewish Museum’s website for a full programme of events, as well as information on how to book tickets.

Manchesterjewishmuseum.com

War Horse | The Lowry | 18th to 28th September

The National Theatre’s global phenomenon, War Horse, returns to Manchester as a stop on its all-new UK tour. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on a journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of France in the First World War. The drama is moving and imaginative, with life-sized horses controlled by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company at its heart which brings breathing, galloping, charging horses to life on stage.

Thelowry.com

UK Jewish Film Festival | Various locations | 7th to 20th November

The UK Jewish Film Festival returns to Manchester in 2024. Look forward to a great selection of eight world-class films that will hit the screens of Cineworld, HOME, and Vue Bury in November. Following its success of last year, there will also be a British Jewish Life on Film event, devoted to short films. The Manchester team is also planning events linked to many of the feature films. Look out for further information in the November edition.

Ukjewishfilm.org/manchester

The Nicky Golf Tournament | Whitefield Golf Club | 11th September

If you love your golf, a tournament is taking place in Whitefield to raise funds for The Nicky, starting at 11.30am, with lunch at 12pm, and dinner afterwards at 6.30pm. Its £100 per person to enter and will be played in teams of four. The winning team will win an overnight stay and two rounds of golf at a wellknown golf hotel complex in addition to on-course team and individual challenges.

Thenicky.org.uk

Radio 2 Piano Room Live | Manchester Opera House | 12th to 14th September

Following the success of Radio 2’s month long Piano Room series, where pop’s most loved artists perform their bestknown tracks alongside legendary covers accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra, Piano Room Live is heading out on the road and being brought to Manchester Opera House. Hosted by Vernon Kay, Piano Room Live will see a line-up of artists including Jamie Cullum, David Gray, and Katie Melua headline each night with a host of rising talents as they deliver unforgettable performances.

BBC.co.uk/events

Wing Fest | Victoria Baths | 20th to 22nd September

Celebrate all things wings at the world’s biggest chicken wing festival. Included in the ticket price is live music, DJs, bands, entertainment, arcade games, eating competitions, and Wing Fest trucker hats. The event showcases the best chicken wings that the UK has to offer, with thousands of ticket holders and a judging panel getting to decide which company does it best. Punters will be able to cast their votes for what they think is the best wing across three different categories, Best Buffalo Wing, Best Wild Wing, and Best BBQ Wing. Wingfest.co.uk

Whitefield based MODS Optical is giving one lucky reader a

£100

voucher towards a pair of frames of their choice.

MODS Eyewear Studio is far from just an optical store; it's a destination for those who appreciate the artistry of eyewear. Owner and Dispensing Optician Hayley Smith dedicated to helping you find the perfect pair of glasses that not only enhances your vision but also compliments your individual style.

Celebrations are afoot at the MODS studio, as it’s preparing to commemorate its first birthday in October. You can join in the festivities at a party at the studio on 29th September.

Establishing a place in the heart of Prestwich over the last year, the studio is a relaxed and inviting space where you can find the latest trends, bespoke designs, and discover timeless pieces. With plenty of styles to choose from all over the world that aren’t available on the high street, there’ll be something for you to showcase your own unique style while feeling fabulous and confident. As well as glasses frames,

you’ll also find a range of sunglasses and accessories available at the studio and online.

Hayley has over 20 years of experience in the optics industry, so you’ll be in good hands at MODS Eyewear Studio. She has developed her knowledge and passion for a service that promotes and encourages self-love through embracing your own personality and uniqueness. Whether you’re looking for something big and bold, soft and subtle, or a more classic style, the frames at MODS cater to all styles and tastes.

Don’t just see, be seen is the mantra at the heart of MODS Optical, so book an easy and fuss-free consultation and together with Hayley, you can choose the best eyewear style and lens design to suit you.

Modsoptical.co.uk

On Instagram and Facebook @modsoptical Call Hayley on 07863 544 088

COMPETITION

To be in with a chance of winning a £100 voucher towards a glasses frame from the diverse range available at MODS Optical, simply answer the following question…

What birthday will the MODS Whitefield Eyewear Studio be celebrating in October?

Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-manchester or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your full name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date:18th October 2024.

Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. By entering the competition online, you will automatically be entered in JLife Magazine’s and MODS Optical’s databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will also be added to the databases. The voucher is valid for 12 months after it’s received and is non-transferable.

The colder months are on their way so it’s time to start preparing your wardrobe with some of our picks to stay warm and stylish this autumn.

Recycled Thermowarmth™ quilted jacket

Marks

and Spencer | £35

Available in four different colours, this quilted jacket is designed to keep you protected from the British weather with its water-repellent technology and the lining is padded so it gives the jacket a cosy feel. The classic style and range of colours means this jacket could be a wardrobe staple for this year and many more to come.

Marksandspencer.com

Black striped high neck jumper | Threadbare | £25

Stripes are a timeless classic that will probably never go out of style so why not add this jumper to your everyday look this autumn? With side seam splits for easy styling and a regular fit, this piece will look great dressed down with trainers and jeans or dressed up with a smarter trouser and heels for those chilly autumn nights out.

Threadbare.com

Palm print lightweight scarf | Monsoon | £25

The perfect accessory for the seasonal transition, this lightweight scarf with its bright and eye-catching print will brighten up any outfit this autumn. It’s made from recycled polyester so not only will you look great, but there’s also minimal impact on the planet too!

Monsoon.co.uk

Soft touch cable jumper | Cotton Traders | £30

This jumper comes in six different colours so no matter what your style, there’s bound to be one that you’ll love! It’s as soft as cashmere, but without the associated price tag and difficulty to look after and has a classic cable design with V-neck which makes it a great piece for layering if it gets cold.

Cottontraders.com

Eastbourne gilet | Crew Clothing | £79

Ideal for the change in the seasons when the elements can be unpredictable, this gilet is showerproof to keep the wind and rain at bay. It’s versatile for styling as it can paired with a jumper or t-shirt underneath, keeping you covered in all weather.

Crewclothing.co.uk

Collectives suede Chelsea boots | Dune | £65

Chelsea boots are a timeless shoe for this time of year, they can elevate any outfit no matter what the occasion while keeping your feet slightly warmer than trainers, loafers, or brogues. These boots from Dune are real suede so you know the quality is high and they’ll stay in your wardrobe season after season. Whether it’s a casual look with jeans or a more formal suit trouser, the Chelsea boot is a perfect addition to any outfit.

Dunelondon.com

Carefully Curated

Manchester Jewish Museum recently welcomed a new Curator, Josh Jones, who told us all about his plans for the role.

Josh Jones has recently taken over as Manchester Jewish Museum’s (MJM) Curator, replacing Alex Cropper, who held the position for 16 years. Josh joins the staff with a rich museum experience and a degree from Cambridge, including a focus decolonisation, collection management, and community co-creation. He’s excited about sharing the stories with the collection with the community: “History is so important for all the reasons we’re always talking about. It informs the politics of the time. It gives everybody a sense of self and a kind of collective identity. But very quickly, in climbing the ranks of history academia, it seemed to me that you end up doing a bit of research that only four people in the world end up interacting with. That wasn’t what I was interested in.”

Over the past few years, it has come more into public awareness that many museums are a product of colonisation, often displaying relics stolen from other cultures. Decolonisation is a subject which is high on many museums’ lists of priority. Collaborating with communities central to a collection is one way museums tackle this issue, and is something Josh is particularly passionate about due to his own background.

“There’s a mission I have for the sector of making everybody feel like they can come into a museum, can learn things and participate, so that it’s not an unequal exchange. Part of the decolonisation process is recognising that there have been a very select few overseeing collections. I’m not posh, I’m not white, but I was educated in Cambridge. I don’t know necessarily that I should be the only one dictating everything that goes on display. That’s the power of community consultations, collaboration, and co-creation.”

Having worked previously in large national museums such as the Science and Industry Museum and the National Science and Media

Museum, Josh is looking forward to the smaller setting of MJM: “I’m really excited to come to a really small museum where everybody knows each other intimately, and everybody clubs in where they can. You have the Café and Retail Manager screwing things to the wall in the gallery when they need to. Everyone in the senior leadership team also does a duty manager shift at front of house as well.”

Josh certainly isn’t lacking in ideas to take the museum forward: “I was speaking to the CEO yesterday about some of the outside spaces in the museum. Immediately that got me thinking about a pervious idea that I’d had. Manchester Flower Festival did a oneoff piece of curation where they invited the people of Manchester to bring something that represented their garden. I thought it would

be really cool in a community museum to have a flower bed for all the different areas of Cheetham Hill.” Josh is also hoping to bring is own love of food and cooking to the museum with pickling and fermenting workshops and is even looking into beekeeping on-site, to provide honey for the café and wax for the museum’s candle making workshop. We look forward to seeing how the museum develops under his curatorship!

MJM first opened in 1984, housed in a Grade II* listed 1874 (former) Spanish and Portuguese synagogue in Cheetham Hill.

Following a redevelopment and extension in 2019, the museum includes a modern gallery, vegetarian café, shop and learning studio as well as the beautifully restored synagogue, now part of the permanent exhibition. Find out more about our events and exhibitions at Manchesterjewishmuseum.com

PHOTO: RYAN MOLE

ALEX CROPPER (LEFT), FORMER CURATOR, WITH JOSH JONES.

Home Sweet Home

Ensure your house is new year ready with our selection of some of the most stylish Yom Tov inspired home accessories to impress your guests.

Faux white flower arrangement

Marquis & Dawe | £89

Add some lasting luxury decoration to your home this Rosh Hashanah with this stunning arrangement of individual faux flowers and stems, featuring white stocks, green viburnum, white cosmos, and ranunculus. The stems vary in length but can be easily cut to make them whatever length you desire. This white flower arrangement is the perfect gift if you’re visiting loved ones, or if you just want to brighten up your home. With no need to worry about keeping the plant alive and looking fresh, these faux flowers will last long after the festivities are over.

Marquisanddawe.co.uk

Warming apple pie candle | By The Pines | from £13.99

Bring the warm and comforting aroma of a freshly baked apple pie this new year with this candle from By The Pines. Available in two different sizes, this candle is perfect for any room in the house, and it captures the essence of rustic comfort and sweet indulgence perfectly. The candle is spiced with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and of course a delectable apple scent which is the main showcase.

Bythepines.co.uk

Bee honey jar and spreader | Annabel James | £39.95

This silver-plated honey jar and spreader with a honeybee motif is crafted with a meticulous attention to detail. It’s an excellent blend of both functionality and elegance and is a great way to store and serve honey with ease. The silver plating adds a luxurious feel, making it perfect for any special occasion. Its classic design and durable construction will impress guests and sweeten your celebrations.

Annabeljames.co.uk

Round tray with enamel inlay

Madison & Mayfair | £19.99

Whatever’s on the menu this Yom Tov, serve it on this round tray with a pomegranate design which is a combination of functionality and visual allure for all your serving needs, whether you’re showcasing appetisers, deserts, or beverages. The intricate pomegranate design is rendered in a vivid green enamel that will stand out as a versatile and stylish addition to your table, enhancing the visual appeal of your culinary creations.

Madisonandmayfair.co.uk

Grapes, flowers, and pomegranates challah cover

Contemporary Judacia | £45

Add a pop of colour to your dinner table with this beautiful challah cover that’s designed and produced by the Jerusalem artist Yair Emanuel. The designs are based on the combination of traditional classic motifs, and the inspiration of ancient Jewish symbols. The cover features grapes, flowers, and pomegranates in bright and eye-catching colours and is also available in a blue and silver colour scheme.

Contemporaryjudaica.co.uk

In

we have literally thousands of fabric and voile options along with the most comprehensive range of blinds and shutters available in the area.

Please see our updated website for more information or call for more advice.

Please call in - no appointment necessary. We have free parking at rear of showroom or please call to arrange a free home consultation.

RIDE DOWN MEMORY LANE

A few lucky residents from Heathlands Village were treated to an e-rickshaw ride around Heaton Park on the bike’s maiden voyage.

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

The sun was shining down on Heaton Park when Heathlands Village residents were chauffeured around the park by The Fed’s activities team.

Both residents and staff enjoyed their outing to put the bike’s pedals to the test. Activities Manager, Nick Burgess, said: “It was just so nice seeing their faces! They kept saying ‘it’s just lovely to be part of this’ and seeing their enjoyment and the memories it brought back for them made me love my job even more.”

Praise was high across the board from the residents, with all of them giving uplifting feedback, including one of them who was keen to know when it was happening again, and another describing it as first class because it brought back so many memories from their childhood and youth.

The team at The Fed were inspired after learning about the Cycling Without Age project – a movement started by Ole Kassow to help older people with limited mobility to get back on their bicycles by using a rickshaw – and felt it would be the perfect addition to the activities that are offered onsite.

The Fed was awarded a grant of almost £10,000 to purchase the bright orange rickshaw from the Department for Transport and the Active Travel England Capability and Ambition Fund. The electric rickshaw is designed to be used by adults and children who might struggle to navigate traffic on their own, such as Heathlands Village residents and anyone who attends The Fed’s community-based services or Children’s Centre.

SUN SHINES ON UNITY PICNIC

The Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester held its annual picnic in Prestwich to unite different faiths and communities.

On 28th July, a picnic was held by the Muslim Jewish Forum (MJF) of Greater Manchester to bring people from different faiths and backgrounds together in a casual setting. The forum has held a picnic every year since its inception 19 years ago, except when the pandemic prevented it.

27 attendees came from various locations making it one of the biggest attendances from the forum’s picnic. Guests came from many different areas, from Stockport to Bury, and included all generations with ages ranging from four to 79.

There was a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout the day, with people making new friends and reacquainting with old friends. As well as old faces, there were several first-timers and plenty of food to share round.

The event was organised by the MJF’s Co-Chairs, Mohammed Amin and Cllr Heather Fletcher. Heather introduced the Forum's Co-Founder, Afzal Khan CBE MP, who delivered a short speech praising the work of the forum for the past 19 years and noting that this was the organisation's 147th event, he said: “With unimaginable violence plaguing the Middle East, it is imperative that Manchester's Jewish and Muslim communities stand together in solidarity.”

Shavla Moussa, one of the Jewish attendees, said: “It was most enjoyable to get together in the sunshine and share snacks whilst catching up with familiar faces and making new contacts. It is a pleasure to

connect with people from different backgrounds, listen and learn from one another and to celebrate our shared human values in a spirit of togetherness. I would also like to thank the organisers.”

MEMBERS OF THE NICKY WELCOMED 14 MEMBERS OF THE LEEDS JEWISH COMMUNITY WHO CROSSED THE PENNINES TO JOIN FOR LUNCH AND AN AFTERNOON OF ENTERTAINMENT.

ANDREW SAIPE, TRAINER AT THE NEUROKINETIC CLUB – AN EXERCISE CLUB FOR THOSE WITH NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS –RUNS EXERCISE CLASSES AT MACCABI COMMUNITY CENTRE.

OF

Advertisers on photo pages have not necessarily been involved with events shown.

COLONEL MARTIN NEWMAN, FORMER AJEX NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, TOASTED UK ARMED FORCES DAY.

200 GUESTS JOINED ANDREW AND ZENA FIELD AT THE FIRST ANNUAL QUIZ NIGHT ORGANISED BY ZENA, ELAINE HAMBURGER AND THE COMMITTEE TO FUNDRAISE AND RAISE AWARENESS OF THE CLUB.

GUESTS

ALL AGES JOINED AN AFTERNOON TEA THAT WAS HELD AT STENECOURT SHUL IN AID OF BREAST CANCER CARE THAT WAS ORGANISED BY REBBETZIN ANNA SIMMONDS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER, JAQUIE SHAPIRO.

THE ACCOUNTANTS FOR ENTREPRENEURS

We are proud to have provided our accountancy services for more than ten years to some of the leading family-owned and privately-owned businesses in the region. Speak to me personally to discuss our practice becoming your new accountants and find out why we are the accountants for entrepreneurs. “ ”

Murray Patt, Founder

Accountants for entrepreneurs

Westgate House, 44 Hale Road, Hale Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 2EX (0161) 980 8788 hello@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk

Roy.Kaitcer@redmayne.co.uk 0113

redmayne.co.uk/leeds

BRACE FOR IMPACT

As concerns grow about imminent tax rises, Murray Patt of Hale-based

accountants Alexander Knight & Co, takes a look at possible areas that could be targeted by the new government.

As children return to school for the new term there are plenty of parents worried about the impact of VAT on future school fees. Recently the Chancellor confirmed that this 20% levy will be introduced, together with legislation to prevent those looking to pay early and avoid the levy, as the government seeks to implement a key manifesto pledge.

Even those not affected by VAT on private school fees are anxious about the prospect of handing more money over to the taxman from elsewhere.

It’s no secret that changes have been promised and are actively being planned but the key question is exactly where will they seek to raise revenue? Here are some possible areas:

Removal of tax breaks

The removal of certain tax breaks looks increasingly likely. Politically, it is a safer move than simply hiking up existing taxes. We are keeping a close eye on what is commonly referred to as ‘business asset disposal relief’ (formerly known as ‘entrepreneurs’ relief’) which reduces the rate of capital gains tax on disposals of businesses or business assets from 20% to 10%. Another area under threat could be Research and Development (R&D) tax credits which have been helpful for

innovative companies over the past few years.

Freezing of thresholds

The freezing of tax thresholds means that people will pay more tax.

Simply put, earning more money tips you into a higher tax band and a higher income means a higher proportion that can be taxed.

Introduction of additional income tax thresholds

The government may consider introducing an additional rate of income tax, perhaps on earnings over £250,000. Currently this is taxed at 45%.

More tax for landlords?

The sale of property by landlords could possibly be targeted as a revenue stream. Landlords with buy-to-let portfolios are already offloading stock at record levels as they seek to minimise the risk to their investments.

Inheritance tax

This hugely unpopular tax for swathes of the population doesn’t look like disappearing. In fact, there is likely to be significant reform in this area which will presumably be aimed at raising tax revenues not reducing them.

TALES OF SURVIVAL

The Fed officially launched its London partnership with Yad Vashem UK with the presentation of three new Holocaust survivor storyteller books.

The Fed’s Chair, Bernie Yaffe, welcomed guests at JW3 at the Fed My Voice Launch in London in July where three books were presented by Holocaust survivors.

Ivor Wieder’s Where Was G-d in Auschwitz, Harry Olmer’s My Revenge on Hitler is My Family, and Jackie Young’s Lost and Waiting to be Found were presented and extracts from each were read out.

Also present at the launch were survivors Lydia Tischler, Susan Pollack, Rachel Levy, Barbara Frankiss, Kurt Marx, and Jacques Weisser – who also have their My Voice Life Storybooks in production – as well as a further 14 survivors from Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivor Centre.

Bernie took the opportunity to explain the Fed’s 150+ year history as one of the leading Jewish charities in the UK. He was followed by Juliette Pearce, the My Voice Project Manager and Lauren Libbert, the My Voice London Lead, who spoke about the history of the project, what makes it so unique, and future

plans for Holocaust education and awareness. They also paid tribute to the amazing volunteers who give of their time as befrienders, editors, researchers, and photographers.

Fundraising and Marketing Director at The Fed, Raphi Bloom, closed the event by saying: “All of us here, since October 7th, appreciate more than ever just how crucial Holocaust education is. It is our desire that My Voice plays a significant part in this and works in close collaboration and partnership with other organisations, so we ensure that these incredible stories do not just sit on bookshelves and coffee tables and gather dust but are used to strengthen education and awareness across the country. That commitment is the solemn promise we made to each of the My Voice Survivor Storytellers and is also our duty to the Jewish community and society as a whole.”

With Murray Patt, founder of Hale-based accountants

Knight & Co.

Firmer enforcement

Labour has already pledged to provide HMRC with 5,000 more staff to help reduce what it calls the ‘tax gap’. We already expect to see compliance enforcement activity increased over the next five years with SME’s targeted first, much to the frustration of business owners.

As the rumour mill continues to swirl, we are ruling out nothing. We will support our clients to limit the amount of tax they pay while being compliant with ever changing legislation in every way we can.

If you run a business and want to make sure you are optimising all the available tax reliefs and need support navigating future tax rises contact Murray Patt on (0161) 980 8788 or email murray@alexanderknightacccountants.co.uk

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Alexander

Creating a Bond

Israel Bonds, also known as Development Corporation for Israel, was established in 1951 and is a FINRA-member broker dealer and underwriter for securities, selling Israel’s national debt in America. The business now operates worldwide, having opened sister-firms in European Union and the UK which are also fully regulated by the relevant authorities.

Arnon Perlman, Israel Bond’s Executive Director of International Sales and Operations in Europe and Latin America, travels through Europe and Latin America promoting the business, and recently spoke at a B-ICC event in Manchester, ably filling in time for a running late Suella Braverman. Arnon’s quick wit and charisma almost stole the show, as he talked about Israel’s development, economy and innovation, and even fielded questions about his love for hats and his iconic beard! Arnon and Joe Ozer, the Executive Director of Israel Bonds UK joined us to explain more about the business.

“In 1951, David Ben Gurion came to the understanding that you cannot run a country with donations,” Arnon said, explaining how Israel Bonds came about. “So, he created this enterprise, which is called Israel Bonds, to sell the sovereign debt of the State of Israel. Since then, we’ve surpassed $50 billion, and we’ve been doing it quite successfully worldwide.”

The UK represents a significant amount of this investment, as Joe explains: “In the UK we’ve been selling since the 80s, not 1951, but last year the UK did something to the tune of $45.5 million, and this year so far we’ve done $18.6 million worth of bond sales.”

“It’s not just the money, in the UK and other places, it’s also the reach,” Arnon adds. “The thing is that Joe and other Executive Directors like him have been selling not just more money, but more money to a lot more

people. The importance of what we do is not just raising the money – which is very important, the money goes into the State of Israel – but also creates a bond between the State of Israel and the purchaser. This is one of the raison d’être of what we do.”

The process of purchasing the bonds couldn’t be simpler, as Joe explains: “Very simply, someone who wants to buy would open an account with us. As a brokerage firm we have to have basic knowledge of who we’re dealing with. And then once our compliance department has approved this application to open an account, they’re able to log into that, and then just click on what they want to buy – a sterling, dollar, or euro bond. They would have made the decision as to which bond they want to purchase. They would pop in all the information and then make a wire transfer to purchase the bond.”

Bonds make excellent gifts for all kinds of occasions, from weddings, to birthdays, to Bar Mitzvahs. Arnon explains why he thinks they stand-out for gift-giving: “I’ll give you an example. When a kid receives a bond for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah, and it’s a five-year bond, then for five years, we as a broker dealer have an obligation to maintain the relationship between the kid, their guardians, and the State of Israel as represented by Israel Bonds.”

Since the start of the war in Gaza, Israel Bonds has seen a rise in those interested in purchasing bonds: “I think there’s solidarity with the State of Israel, and not just from Jewish people. We see it in terms of the number of people worldwide who are interested in investing in the State of Israel. Israel needs us more than ever now, our investment and our support is vital.”

Israelbondsintl.com

We chat to Arnon Perlman and Joe Ozer from Israel Bonds, to discuss what the business offers customers across the diaspora.

ARNON PERLMAN

JOE OZER

ALL PHOTOS: BLAKE EZRA PHOTOGRAPHY

BUSINESS NEWS

Locally and in Israel

Hospitality Investment in Manchester

Shuffle, a startup hospitality investment platform, is investing £2.5 million into Manchester’s hospitality industry to fuel the continued growth of some of the city’s most successful businesses, including Madre, Medlock Canteen, Trof, and Bold Street Coffee.

Shuffle provides upfront capital to its partner venues, with the funding unlocking opportunities for growth, including new site openings, updated interiors, and kitchen renovations. This immediate investment is offered without requiring businesses to give up company equity, as is usually the case with traditional models such as crowdfunding.

The investment will be repaid through Shuffle’s consumer-facing app which is set to launch later this year. The app rewards customers for spending at venues partnered with Shuffle, driving footfall and fostering customer loyalty through a unique concept of randomised rewards, where consumers are guaranteed a random cashback amount ranging from 2% to a full 100% of their bill.

Co-Founder of Shuffle, Ollie Purdue, said: “Hospitality owners are incredibly entrepreneurial but often struggle to access the capital needed for growth despite having a proven business model. During our conception stage, we consulted with many successful operators who were facing this problem and realised we could support them through our goal of building the biggest hospitality investment platform in the UK over the next three years.”

The go-ahead has been given for a £100 million overhaul of the Longfield Centre site in Prestwich that aims to create a new beating heart for the area after members of Bury Council’s Planning Control Committee voted to approve the proposal from Prestwich Village Regeneration LLP, a joint venture between national place maker, Muse, and Bury Council.

The joint venture will provide new spaces for new shops, public spaces, community facilities, and homes at the site off Bury New Road. The regeneration plans have also been shaped by locals following two stages of consultation, in which the public decided on what they want to see, such as a travel hub which contains up to 300 parking spaces as well as EV charging points and bicycle storage.

Leader of Bury Council, Cllr Eamonn O’Brien, said: “These are truly transformative plans which will reshape Prestwich village – from new housing to shops, leisure facilities and a better living environment. Regeneration of our town centres is a crucial part of ensuring that the whole of our borough can prosper and thrive for many generations to come, and we're looking forward to working with our partners to bring the new Prestwich to life.”

The final plans include a community hub with a library and flexible community space; a new village square; market hall; retail and leisure spaces; landscaped outdoor and green spaces; travel hub; and about 200 homes.

Alexandra Goldrein, Associate Partner at leading law firm, Slater Heelis, has been shortlisted for a prestigious Citywealth Future Leaders 2024 Award.

Recognised in the category of Family Lawyer of the Year – Senior/ Managing Associate, Alexandra is lined up against six others, with the winner due to be announced at an exclusive cocktail ceremony in London in November.

Throughout Alexandra’s 10+ year career in law, she has worked for some of the Manchester’s top law firms before joining Slater Heelis in 2021. Over the years she has cemented her position as a leader in family law, specialising in all areas of private family law work including relationship breakdown, divorce, financial settlements, and child arrangements.

Rachel Fletcher, Managing Partner at Slater Heelis, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that Alexandra has been recognised for such a prestigious national award. She is a true talent, something we recognised from day one, and goes above and beyond to not only offer outstanding legal practice to her clients, but also use her knowledge and expertise to inspire and educate her peers, contributing to family law publications on a regular basis.”

Free Speech Recognition Trial Launched

Voiceitt has announced the opportunity for clinicians, educators, and customers to expand their impact through the launch of a 30-day free trial. Israeli company Voiceitt is a leader in speech recognition technology for nonstandard speech.

The trial offers a unique opportunity for therapists, support professionals, educators, and others to experience an Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC), and an Assistive Technology (AT) tool.

Voiceitt’s speech recognition technology is designed to support individuals with impaired or atypical speech. By leveraging Voiceitt's unique speech database, which comprises recordings from people with non-standard speech, Voiceitt delivers a more inclusive and accurate user experience. Personalised recognition further enhances this by allowing individuals to record a minimum of 200 phrases, continuously improving the system’s understanding of the user’s speech.

The benefits of Voiceitt include being able to facilitate clear, real-time communication with desired emotions, achieve more productive text input and streamlined collaboration, and reduce reliance on caregivers for everyday tasks by enabling self-advocacy and participation in decision making, among many other things.

Groundbreaking Advance in Cancer Care

Hadassah Cancer Research Institute (HCRI), a leading force in advancing cancer treatments in Manchester, has unveiled a significant breakthrough in personalised cancer care. This research, published in the Cell Reports Medicine journal, introduces MESiCA, a machine learning model poised to revolutionise cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Professor Michal Lotem, Head of HCRI, said: “This publication represents a major leap forward in personalised medicine. MESiCA offers a practical tool for oncologists, enabling them to make more informed decisions, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.”

"Current methods rely on targeted gene panel testing, which only analyses a small portion of the genome," explains Professor Aron Popovtzer, heading the Sharett oncology institute. "This limitation hindered our ability to detect mutational signatures and apply this information to personalise treatment plans."

MESiCA harnesses the power of machine learning and natural language processing (NLP). The innovative model can accurately detect dominant mutational signatures using only a small number of mutations, making it ideal for everyday clinical use.

This groundbreaking research by Dr Shai Rosenberg and Dr Adar Yaacov paves the way for a new era of personalised cancer care. With MESiCA, HCRI continues its unwavering commitment to developing innovative solutions to combat cancer.

Recognition for Israeli Email Security Company

Perception Point, a leading provider of advanced email and workspace security solutions, has announced its recognition in Frost & Sullivan’s Frost Radar: Email Security 2024 report as a notable innovation and growth leader. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the email security market, highlighting leading companies that demonstrate excellence in innovation, customer impact, and market performance.

"Perception Point has addressed critical cybersecurity challenges, providing effective next-gen technology that addresses the complicated threat landscape and security solution consolidation, while meeting the needs of modern cloud-centric organisations," said Sarah Pavlak, Industry Principal of Frost & Sullivan (F&S).

According to F&S, the email security market is rapidly evolving towards an integrated data-sharing security environment, and Perception Point is well positioned to lead this shift with its innovative browser security solutions and established partnerships.

CEO of Perception Point, Yoram Salinger, said: “We are honoured to be recognised by Frost & Sulivan as a leader in market growth and innovation, particularly for introducing advanced AI-powered detection engines that counter the rising sophistication and volume of email-borne cyberattacks.”

AIRLEY

Shanah Tovah Tikateivu to our family in Prestwich and Ramat Beit Shemesh. Peace and good health.

CAPLAN

Doreen and Barry wish all our family and friends a healthy and happy new year and well over the fast.

BERENS

Beverlee and Eric Berens wish family and friends Shanah Tovah and well over the fast.

BLACKSTON

Amanda and Richard wish their wonderful family and friends a very happy new year and an easy fast.

DREW

Wishing my dear family and friends a happy new year (5785) and a peaceful healthy one, fast well. Barbara Drew.

FISHER

Linda, Simon, Sophie, Louie & Danielle wish their family & friends near and far a happy, healthy & peaceful new year. Thinking of all those who are unable to celebrate with their families. Praying for their release.

JAFFA

Mirelle and David wish their dear family and friends a very happy new year and well over the fast.

GILL

Janet wishes her family and friends a happy and healthy new year and well over the fast.

LEFTON

Joy, Mark, Jake & Zak wish all their family & friends a happy, healthy, sweet new year and well over the fast.

LOOFE

Wishing all our family and friends a truly peaceful and happy new year. Suzi and Steve Loofe and family.

MORRIS

Wishing our dear family, relatives & friends a happy, healthy new year and well over the fast. Helene, Malcolm and family.

SAIPE

Sara, Andrew and family wish our extended family and friends a happy and healthy Yom Tov.

SHALOM

Wishing all our dear family and friends a happy new year. With love Collette Shalom, Libby, Raphi, Liora Benggio, Max Keizer.

BROWER

Andrea & Alan wish their dear family and friends a happy, healthy and sweet new year and an easy fast. Shanah Tovah

FAGEN

Sharron & Ian wish their children, sons-inlaw, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, family & friends a very happy new year.

GOLDFINE

Pam, Bernard, Jodie and Adam wish all their family and friends a happy and healthy new year and well over the fast.

FALCONI

Cindy Falconi and family would like to wish family and friends a happy, healthy and sweet new year.

GOODMAN

Laura and Gary wish dad, family and friends a happy and healthy new year and well over the fast.

LEVY

Janice wishes her dear family and friends a happy, healthy and sweet new year and well over the fast.

LINTON

Diane & Graham wish dear family & friends a happy & healthy new year & well over the fast.

NOYEK

Lisa, Theo, Gabby & Adam wish all their family and friends a very happy new year x

QUINN

Wishing all our family and friends a happy and healthy new year and well over the fast. Love Michelle and Leonard Quinn.

SIVNER

Janice and Stuart wish our dear children, grandchildren, family and friends a happy and healthy new year and well over the fast.

STERNBERG

Wendy & Ivor Sternberg would like to wish family & friends a happy, healthy, peaceful new year & well over the fast.

Picture your health journey as a game of Snakes and Ladders. The ladders represent the healthy choices and timely medical interventions that help you climb to new heights, while the snakes are those pesky symptoms and conditions that can slide you back if ignored. Urological health, especially as we age, plays a crucial role in this game. Let’s explore five key urological symptoms you should never ignore, and how seeing a urologist can be your winning strategy.

Blood in the urine

Imagine you’re moving steadily up the board when suddenly, you land on a square that sends a shiver down your spine: blood in your urine. This isn’t a ladder, it’s a snake! Potential causes:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Often accompanied by a burning sensation and frequent bathroom trips.

• Kidney Stones: Hard deposits causing severe pain and bloody urine.

• Bladder or Kidney Cancer: Persistent blood in urine is a serious warning sign.

• Other Causes: Sometimes, strenuous exercise or certain medications are the culprits.

Why It Matters: John, a 55-year-old player, noticed this snake when his urine turned red. Consulting a urologist revealed an early-stage kidney tumour. Thanks to this early detection, John avoided a major slide down the board. Blood in your urine should always prompt a visit to the doctor, as it could be the first sign of a serious issue. Spotting this snake early can keep you on the winning path.

Undiagnosed abdominal/pelvic pain with urinary symptoms

You’re moving along the board, and then Mary, a 62-year-old teacher, hits a spot with persistent abdominal pain and frequent bathroom breaks — a classic snake trying to pull her down.

Snakes and Ladders

In honour of Urology Awareness Month in September, Oliver Kayes, Consultant Urologist & Honorary Senior Lecturer at Spire Healthcare, talks us through five urological symptoms you should never ignore.

Potential causes:

• UTIs: Infections causing pain and urgency.

• Interstitial Cystitis: Chronic bladder pressure and pelvic pain.

• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate causing discomfort.

• Kidney Stones: Sharp pain radiating to the lower abdomen.

Why It Matters: Mary, initially ignoring the pain, finally sought help. Her urologist diagnosed interstitial cystitis, allowing her to manage the condition and avoid a serious slide. Persistent pain and urinary symptoms can make the game much harder. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent you from landing on a long snake that pulls you way back.

Sexual dysfunction

Paul, a 70-year-old retired engineer, finds himself avoiding intimacy — a snake that threatens his happiness and confidence. Potential causes:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Often linked to heart disease, diabetes, or prostate problems.

• Low Libido: Caused by hormonal imbalances or chronic conditions.

• Painful Intercourse: Conditions like prostatitis can cause discomfort.

Why It Matters: Paul’s visit to a urologist uncovered low testosterone and heart disease as the underlying issues. With proper treatment, Paul overcame this snake and regained his confidence, climbing back up the board. Sexual dysfunction can be a significant barrier, but addressing it with professional help can restore balance and joy to your game.

Incontinence

Sarah, a 65-year-old grandmother, encounters an embarrassing snake: incontinence. Every time she laughs or lifts something, she faces an unintended slide.

Potential causes:

• Stress Incontinence: Leakage during activities that put pressure on the bladder.

• Urge Incontinence: A sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate followed by leakage.

• Overflow Incontinence: The bladder doesn’t empty completely, leading to frequent dribbling.

• Functional Incontinence: Physical or mental impairments preventing timely bathroom access.

Why It Matters: Sarah’s urologist and pelvic floor physiotherapist provided treatments and strategies to manage her condition, helping her to avoid the slide and enjoy life without fear of accidents. Incontinence can limit your moves, but effective management can restore your freedom and confidence, helping you climb those ladders with ease.

Importance of screening

Regular health checks are your secret ladders in the game of Snakes and Ladders. George, a 68-year-old, felt perfectly fine but wisely opted for routine urological screening.

Recommended health screenings:

• Prostate Cancer: PSA tests for men over 50 or earlier for those with a family history.

• Bladder and Kidney Cancer: Urine tests and imaging for high-risk individuals.

• Kidney Function: Blood tests to monitor kidney health, especially for those with diabetes or high blood pressure.

Why It Matters: George’s screening revealed an early-stage prostate cancer. Thanks to this proactive approach, George climbed a significant ladder, receiving timely treatment and continuing his journey with confidence. Regular screenings are essential moves that can detect problems early, ensuring you stay ahead in the game.

Spirehealthcare.com

Heading South

JLife’s Elaine Bermitz reports back from a weekend away at Brighton and Hove Jewish Community.

Having spent my early childhood in Brighton and Hove there has always been a pull to visit and recall fond memories of the pebble beach, the West Pier and the Laines Shops.

So when The Bloom Foundation launched a project in 2017 to revitalise and create the new Brighton and Hove Jewish Community (BNJC) I was intrigued and excited at the prospect. Having thought about visiting it for some time my husband and I, prompted by an advert in JLife, decided to take the plunge and booked a three day break in August.

We chose Elm Tree Court and were kindly upgraded to the Penthouse Apartment which was tastefully furnished with two bedrooms with the Master En Suite, and a luxurious open kitchen dining area plus a stunning veranda. Even though the development is set back about 300 metres the view faces towards the sea. Four friends visited us one day and there was plenty of room to sit and share drinks and food. The apartments have modern fixtures and fittings, Wi-Fi and TV.

The BNJC is not just a place to stay, but is truly a cultural centre offering a variety of facilities and events for both the residents and the whole of the Brighton and Hove wider Jewish Community.

The centre includes Novellino, a franchise from the North London KLBD eatery, offering a meaty menu and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a unique middle eastern twist. There is also a well-stocked deli which serves the community with meat and good range of kosher products including fresh bread and milk. For those booking a holiday break it is possible to order in advance from the deli and have the food placed in the apartment in advance. There is also an intention to provide picnic baskets for lunches. We ate at Novellino on several occasions and the food was generous in portions and delicious. It was delightful to see multi-generational families sharing food, celebrating birthdays and generally enjoying themselves in a modern kosher environment.

I chatted to Rabbi Rader of the Brighton

and Hove Congregation who reminded me that we were on the site of the shul I went to as a child. In its new form it presents a beautiful place of worship with a nod to the past in the pews that have been tastefully remodeled. Daily services are held and there are many other associated activities such as lunch and learning sessions.

There is a well-run Shoresh nursery on site and it was lovely to see so many young children and families encouraged by the family friendly facities. The independent gym ‘Pro Fitness Academy’ offers group and one to one training plus a variety of classes such as yoga. On a personal note, I realised that I attended a nursery on this site and now it provides holiday care with space for play, operating in line with the Montessori method, involving children's natural interests and activities rather than formal teaching.

I learned that as part of the planning Brighton and Hove Council requested that part of the constitution contain a contemporary structure. A wall of blue glass tubes forms a stunning backdrop to a courtyard. Since its construction there is a plan to offer the opportunity to dedicate individual tubes in the memory of departed loved ones and to have then illuminated. I’m sure that this will look stunning as it develops.

Years ago, Bournemouth offered some kosher hotels and there may be other options for short periods of time such as the Hagim. The BNJC is now established and open all year round and can accommodate small and large family and friends’ groups with everything ‘on tap’ required.

We drove to Brighton breaking our journey overnight but rail travel via London would be easy and Gatwick is close by. It’s a great place to stay for a short or longer holiday to explore the south coast in a kosher environment, our stay was delightful and highly recommended.

More information can be found at Bnjc.co.uk

THEY CELEBRATED THEIR SPECIAL DAY AT THE HILTON HOTEL.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY JOINED THE HAPPY COUPLE.

THE CELEBRATIONS CONTINUED INTO THE EVENING.

CHEADLE AND GATLEY SYNAGOGUE’S ALL-FEMALE SEXTET SANG AT BELONG MORRIS FEINMANN, WHERE RESIDENTS JOINED IN AND TOOK OVER TO MAKE IT A TRUE SINGALONG!

JEFFAY, ISRAELI JOURNALIST FOR THE TIMES OF ISRAEL AND THE JEWISH CHRONICLE, HOSTED AN EVENT CALLED FLY THE FLAG FOR ISRAEL AT YESHURUN.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

TAMMY KWARTZ AND JACOB GERSCH RECENTLY TIED THE KNOT!

YESHURUN

NATHAN

NATHAN – A FORMER MEMBER OF THE SHUL – SPOKE TO A PACKED AUDIENCE ABOUT ISRAEL SINCE OCTOBER 7TH.

TWO OF THE SHUL’S FORMER RABBIS VISITING FROM ISRAEL JOINED RABBI BANK FOR SHACHARIT. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: DAYAN CHAIM KANTEROVITZ, RABBI CHANAN ATLAS, AND RABBI GREG BANK.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

With Marc Levy, Chief Executive of the Jewish Representative Council

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, I write to wish our community a Shanah Tovah Umetukah. At this time, it is traditional to reflect upon the previous year and look forward with optimism to what lies ahead. It is impossible to review last year without immediately focusing on the terrorist atrocities committed on October 7th. Our community is inextricably linked with the State of Israel. Therefore, we continually pray for the safety of the heroic IDF soldiers and the safe return of all hostages.

During this defining time, it is natural that our community feels a sense of anxiety. However, we have taken a huge amount of reassurance from the unity across Jewish

Happy New Year OUR COMMUNITY

communities. This was highlighted by the huge response to the vigil a mere 72 hours after the attacks along with the March Against Antisemitism in January. The march defied the amber weather warnings to attract the largest ever gathering of Jewish people and our communal allies outside of London. We are also looking forward to supporting the March for Israel arranged by North West Friends of Israel and a number of events choreographed by UJIA designed to mark the October 7th anniversary.

It is imperative our community remains confident and outward facing. We need to celebrate the significant achievements of individuals and our communal organisations.

UNITED BY MEMORIES

Yael Mohaliver Brif, Regional Director of UJIA, discusses collective memory in the wake of the new year and the anniversary of October 7th.

As we approach Rosh Hashanah, this time of year brings a profound sense of reflection. Traditionally a period of renewal and hope, it is now deeply intertwined with the memories of October 7th — a day that forever changed both Israel and our community, leaving an indelible mark on our collective soul.

The Jewish people don’t just have a history; we have a memory. Jewish history is a collective memory, passed down from parents to children through countless generations. As Avraham Infeld said, this memory is more than a record of past events — it is a living testament to our shared experiences and the strength that unites us. We carry the stories of our ancestors as our own, forming an unbroken chain that connects our past and guides our future.

In the aftermath of October 7th, we are not just remembering but living through a

chapter that will shape the collective memory of future generations. This moment carries a profound responsibility. It is up to us to ensure that the resilience, unity, and courage born from this tragedy are documented and passed down, becoming part of our enduring legacy.

As we enter the month of high holy days, and approach the one-year mark of October 7th, let us draw strength from the resilience and unity that have always defined the Jewish people. The challenges ahead are great, but so is our ability to stand together and persevere. This year, as we reflect on the past and look to the future, we build on our shared strength and solidarity. We are one.

Shanah Tovah, Am Yisrael Chai.

Ujia.org

When politicians visit, they are always extremely impressed with how our community cares for people who are vulnerable. That is why we will once again be asking our whole community to build upon the success of the previous awards to ensure the next version is the biggest and best one yet. We will also be hosting a civic reception with the Lord Mayor to once again demonstrate the immense contribution Jewish people have made to Greater Manchester.

So, when celebrating Rosh Hashanah this year, it is more important than ever that we remain committed to be proud and outspoken Jews.

Jewishmanchester.org

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

REST AND RELAX

The volunteer team at Camp Simcha arranged a spa and pamper day to give mums of seriously ill children some respite.

For a parent with a seriously ill child, juggling the demands of their condition, their other children, family, and working life can often be a lot to deal with so Camp Simcha is alleviating some of the pressures – even just for a day – with a spa day for mums.

21 mums supported by the charity attended the spa day in Manchester at the home of a generous Camp Simcha supporter, with a range of pampering treatments provided by teams of volunteer therapists.

Giving mums some precious time to relax and breathe was the aim of the spa day, with treatments including massages, reflexology, facials, manicures, pedicures, meditation, and Pilates, there was plenty to help ensure the mums left feeling re-energised and more relaxed than when they first arrived.

One of the mums who attended, Rachel, said: “Literally, the only me time I was getting was a five-minute shower. Spa day gave me back that feeling of mattering, of just being, being pampered along with a bunch of people who 'got it'. When I sat having lunch, surrounded by my Camp Simcha family, I could really let go of the facade and be myself.”

Michal Segal, a Beauty Therapist at The Skincare Spa Manchester, volunteered by providing facials and said it was a privilege to be part of the day: “Listening to mums’ stories and hearing their strength, hope, and resilience as they battle day to day with their loved ones, shined a new appreciation of life. I just feel so such awe and respect for all those amazing Camp Simcha mums.”

SKY HIGH

Over 30 thrill-seekers scaled down Trafford Palazzo Tower in July to raise money for the charity.

CEO of Camp Simcha, Daniel Gillis, and 36 others abseiled down the 170 ft. Trafford Palazzo tower, raising over £15,000 for the charity.

Leading by example while attempting to conquer his extreme fear of heights, Prestwich-born Daniel, along with two Camp Simcha family members, and the charity’s Manchester Services Coordinator Goldie Benedikt, decided to take on this exhilarating sponsored challenge.

Speaking after the abseil, a very relieved Daniel said: “To be honest, until a few hours before the start, I had managed to block this out of my mind! Heights terrify me, so this really was a personal challenge, but it was one I was happy to take on for Camp Simcha. Day in, day out we see or speak with parents and their children who have to overcome and conquer real challenges. Drawing inspiration from these families was my motivation.”

Also tackling the heights of the tower were Judy and Nechemiya Fagleman, a family being supported. Judy said: “I'm honestly not quite sure how I got nominated? I thought it was just my husband but 'somehow' I was also signed up – much to amusement of the boys who loved watching mum and dad look totally terrified! It was totally worth it to see their faces though!”

Even Camp Simcha’s mascot, Simi the Monkey, got in on the act by cheerleading the abseilers, although he was more of a chicken than a monkey when it came to going over the top!

Refill, Not Landfill

Shop more sustainably to support Zero Waste Week from 2nd to 6th September by visiting one of the many organic produce shops that Manchester has to offer.

Each year, the UK generates more than two million metric tonnes of plastic packaging waste; zero waste shops are helping to cut down on this shocking statistic. Selling products that aren’t individually wrapped, all the excess cardboard and plastic that would usually come home from a shopping trip and potentially not be recycled, is swapped for your own repurposed containers.

Shopping zero waste not only helps wildlife, natural resources, and keeping the planet tidy, it also encourages mindful consumption to support a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle, and where better to start than at home. Here’s our pick of some places to go.

One Small Step | Altrincham

Nestled in Altrincham Market you’ll find One Small Step. Rachael Wong launched the shop in 2019 after she saw the damaging effect plastic pollution is having on our environment first hand when travelling around Asia. Rachael founded One Small Step to help the local community realise how easy a zero-waste lifestyle can be. At One Small Step you’ll find a wide variety of pantry staples, including pastas, grains, and cereals as well as cleaning and personal hygiene products.

On Instagram @onesmallstep.uk

Tarn Replenished | Milnrow

You’ll find a wide variety of refillable products at Tarn Replenished out in Milnrow, including

laundry liquids, bathroom and kitchen cleaners, haircare, handwash, and sanitisers. Not only this, but it also offers a range of sustainable gift ideas with everything from vegan and fairtrade chocolate to cards made from recycled materials, such as cotton from the fashion industry, tea leaves that don’t make the grade, and seed paper that grows when planted.

On Instagram @tarnreplenished

Village Greens | Prestwich

Village Greens first opened its doors in 2014 and along with its founders, Prestwich and surrounding area’s local community brought the idea to life and generated the investment required to create the shop. It has an extensive range of vegan, organic, gluten free, and healthy refillable products, as well as sustainable ranges of home and healthcare goods. It also has weekly deliveries of the freshest and most organic produce from local areas such as breads, fruit and veg, dairy products, and cakes.

Village-greens-coop.co.uk

Eighth Day | City Centre

A staple part of Manchester’s sustainability community since 1970, Eighth Day on Oxford Road has been delivering more sustainable options to the city for over 50 years. Today, not only can you find a huge range of refillable items, vegetarian and vegan ingredients, and ethically sourced products, but there’s also a plant-based café that provides a variety of nourishing meals, tasty snacks, and

drink options. The team boasts a qualified nutritionist and multiple team members who are genuinely passionate about the ethics of ecofriendly lifestyles, making Eighth Day a one stop shop for all your sustainable needs.

8thday.coop

Are your eco-friendly products as environmentally friendly as you think? Here’s a list of so-called sustainable items that are often guilty of greenwashing.

Tote bags

Cotton bags require more materials and energy for creation than a plastic shopping bag so for a cotton bag to be more eco-friendly than a plastic one, it’d need to be used 173 times. As long as you don’t hoard tote bags and use the same one regularly, you’re still helping out the planet.

Coffee cups

Most single use cups from coffee chains are labelled as recyclable but most end up in landfill because they’re made from plastic coated paper which won’t break down in recycling plants. To solve this, just take a reusable cup next time you’re getting your caffeine fix!

Bamboo products

Bamboo is popular because of its sustainable qualities as it grows quickly and the whole plant can be used. However, a lot of this changes during the production stage when turned into fibre through chemical processes that can waste up to 70% of the tree. Look for products with a bamboo lyocell label as these products are made free of chemicals and toxic solutions.

As we approach the joyous celebrations of Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our health and wellbeing. These holidays, rich in tradition and meaning, remind us of renewal, gratitude, and the importance of community. At Hilton House Medical, we believe that taking proactive steps towards better health can be a meaningful part of these celebrations.

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, symbolises new beginnings. It’s a time to set intentions for the year ahead. Just as we examine our spiritual lives, it’s equally important to consider our physical health. Regular check-ups with your GP can help catch potential health issues early. Screenings

A Fresh Start HEALTH AND WELLBEING

for heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions can set you on the right path for a healthier year. Preventive care is a cornerstone of good health, aligning with the theme of new beginnings and taking proactive steps.

Sukkot, the festival of giving thanks for the fall harvest, emphasises the importance of nourishment and shelter. This festival is an excellent reminder to evaluate our dietary habits. Incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet not only honours the harvest but also boosts your nutrition. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports overall health and wellbeing. Try integrating more whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals, and consider reducing sugar and processed foods.

Both Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot are times for gathering with loved ones. Social connections are vital for mental health, reducing stress, and enhancing overall

happiness. Use these holidays to strengthen bonds with family and friends. Engage in meaningful conversations, share healthy meals, and enjoy the festivities together.

Finally, consider the physical aspect of these holidays. Building the sukkah and spending time outdoors can be a fun way to incorporate physical activity into your celebrations. Physical exercise is crucial for maintaining health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and improving mental health.

As we celebrate the festivals, let’s embrace the opportunity to renew our commitment to health and wellbeing. Hilton House Medical is here to support you on this journey, offering personalised care and advice for a healthier, happier year ahead. Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy new year.

Hiltonhousemedical.co.uk

With Dr Sabir at Hilton House Medical

Bali is no longer the quiet and secluded island paradise it once was; but the South East Asia area offers some fabulous alternatives without the bustle for your next long-haul getaway.

It’s no secret that Bali has a lot to offer but in recent years, the once hidden gem now hosts over 5 million tourists each year, a number that is only increasing. If you’re searching for a quieter, more authentic experience from your travels, South East Asia is home to plenty of lovely alternatives to the mass tourism that Bali experiences.

Lombok | Indonesia

Visiting the island of Lombok means you can get all the breathtaking scenery you’d expect from the area but with more space to enjoy it all.

Lombok remains unspoilt and is dominated by Indonesia’s second highest volcano, Gunung Rinjani. If you’re looking to stay active on your trip and get in touch with nature, the giant peak offers a multi-day hike accompanied by some incredible sunrises and camping beside a crater lake.

On the south coast you’ll also find some excellent spots to surf, as Lombok is a surfer’s paradise where you can catch some waves surrounded by turquoise water and picturesque beaches. There’s both luxury and cheap accommodation across the island so no matter what your budget, there’ll be something perfect for you.

Koh Chang | Thailand

Koh Chang is the third largest island in Thailand, after Phuket and Koh Samui. Unlike its bigger, more popular cousins in the south, Koh Chang is lesser visited by tourists, so development has moved at a much slower pace. This slightly more sustainable way of life has meant that visiting the island gives a more authentic experience with less traffic, a more controlled nightlife, and an abundance of local atmosphere.

Similarly to Bali, Koh Chang is full of temples due to the prominence of Buddhism in Thailand, there are seven situated across the island. Adorned with intricately carved decorations, symbolic artwork and beautiful infrastructure, the temples on the island are a must see.

With beaches equipped with white sands and gorgeous clear waters, the scenery on Koh Chang is like a postcard bought to life. White Sand Beach and Klong Prao Beach offer a sense of tranquillity that’s hard to find in the modern world. Or if exploring is more your thing, the island offers breathtaking waterfalls and dense rainforests that you can hike around, and marine parks and coral reefs make it a popular spot for diving and snorkelling.

based on current legislation and rates of taxation. Est 1914

Langkawi | Malaysia

Only a two-hour flight away from Bali, this archipelago in Malaysia is on a similar wavelength with its crystal-clear waters and forested hills.

Cable cars are usually associated with cold, wintery holidays but on this tropical paradise you can take the Langkawi Skycab lifts which take you above the dense canopy of rainforest that decks the mountain of Gunung Machincang. Viewing platforms at the top of the peak make for an incredible panoramic view of the island. For those with a head for heights, you can ascend to the Top Station in a glass-bottomed gondola and once there you can cross the words longest free span, curved bridge, Sky Bridge.

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, Langkawi offers many picturesque beaches like Tanjung Rhu and Cenang Beach for you to relax and catch a tan. Sunbathing the day away isn’t for everyone, try a jet ski tour or sunset boat cruise in the waters that surround the island for a great way to see the fabulous shoreline.

Flores and Komodo | Indonesia

Flores is very different to the islands you’d picture when thinking about Indonesia. It’s remote and rugged so only one for you if you’re willing to sacrifice a few creature comforts, but it’s well worth doing so.

Flores is made up of thriving jungles and scenic beaches, including the famous pink beach, one of only a handful of pink sand beaches in the world.

One of the most impressive sites on the island is Mount Kelimutu, an extinct volcano that has three crater lakes at its summit, which change colour depending on the light.

The port of Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo National Park, which is spread across the islands of Komodo, Rinca, and Padar. You might recognise the name as the park is home to the world’s biggest lizard, the Komodo dragon. Only a short sail from Flores, a day trip to Komodo is recommended as you can snorkel and dive in the beautiful waters and see magnificent prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat.

Palawan | Philippines

Palawan is characterised by its dramatic landscapes as it’s blessed with breathtaking limestone cliffs, lush rainforests, and flawless turquoise waters.

Home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites, Palawan has many experiences that you can’t get anywhere else in the world. The Tubbataha Reefs National Park is a coral reef with vibrant marine ecosystems, home to over 1,200 species, that can be explored by snorkelling. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park is home to a full mountain-tosea ecosystem which hosts some of the most important forests in Asia. It encompasses one of the world’s most impressive cave systems, with an 8.2km long underground river that flows directly into this sea. This incredible natural landscape can be discovered by hiking and boat tours across the park.

If a livelier holiday is what you’re looking for, Palawan is the best of both worlds and offers high energy as well as tranquillity. In places such as El Nido and Puerto Princesa you’ll find a bustling nightlife and some incredible resorts. Palawan is also considered to be a traveller’s hub, so if you’re taking a solo trip and looking to meet other travellers, it’s the perfect destination.

LANGKAWI | MALAYSIA

FLORES AND KOMODO | INDONESIA

PALAWAN | PHILIPPINES

NAOMI AND DAVID SIMON CELEBRATED THEIR GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY AT STENECOURT SHUL.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ESTI (HALPERN) AND MIKEY GLASS, WHO WERE MARRIED AT THE VERMILLION CINNEBAR.

MIKEY POSED WITH HIS GROOMSMEN ON THE DAY!

BNEI AKIVA SAW SHOSHI VARLEY BE CALLED UP.

WHILE YEDIDYA MANSON CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH AT THE NICKY.

Love Bite

We chat with Jewish Canadian comedian Zoe Brownstone, after her debut Edinburgh Fringe Show, A Bite of Yours.

The debut Edinburgh Fringe Festival show, A Bite of Yours, from Jewish Canadian comic and quirky best friend Zoe Brownstone answered all of your questions about love, heartbreak and bilingual visa break ups. Zoe has been performing standup since before dating apps existed, and yet she still does not know how love works, if you can even believe that.

Zoe has been involved in the performing arts from a young age, though it was originally theatre which captured her attention: “I studied theatre and I was an actor when I was a kid. That was the plan, but the industry in Canada is really tricky and competitive. When I graduated, I went travelling for a while but I couldn’t find myself. A friend of mine suggested a writing class, and there was a show at the end of the course. I performed some of my jokes and they weren’t great but I figured I can try this.”

Stand-up comedy has given Zoe more freedom than her experience as an actor

did: “With stand-up you can perform wherever you want and do whatever you want and you don’t have to ask anyone’s permission, which after 15 years as an actor, was so mind-blowing.”

The routine Zoe performed at the Fringe Festival is centred around her own experiences. Most notably with moving to the Netherlands for love and then being stuck there after a breakup — at first due to COVID, and then only due to pure stubbornness, believing that if she stayed she still had a chance to rescue the relationship. While there Zoe had written work published around Judaism and the Holocaust.

Despite some embellishment, the narrative Zoe relates to sticks closely to the actual events which took place: “I would say the events are all pretty much all exactly how they happened. There’s definitely embellishment when it comes to the timeline. There is a little bit of overexaggeration, but I think it’s mostly

the overexaggeration that we do in our own minds when we retell something.”

Another central theme of the show is the lessons that Zoe learned growing up watching rom-coms, and how those don’t necessarily reflect real love: “I grew up in the 90s and I was raised on 10 Things I Hate About You, Never Been Kissed, Ever After. It’s such a unique bubble in film, where women had a personality. We didn’t just raise children, we had jobs and could talk back to our boyfriends, but there was still a massive gap between the heteronormative gendered roles of men and women in a relationship, and we were 10 years away from seeing any kind of interracial romance or LGBTQ stories in a mainstream movie. And so for the first 15 years of my life I was searching for a very specific thing with love – what I saw in film and television.”

Zoebrownstone.com

Work From Home

Get home active for National Fitness Day (18th September) with our picks of some of the best products for home workouts.

It’s time to get active! Getting exercise is vital for so many reasons, but not everyone can or wants to join a gym. Creating an at home workout space, whether in a garage, spare room, or a corner of your kitchen, offers privacy, convenience, freedom, and ability to tailor your space specifically to your exercise needs. We checked out some products for all budgets to help you get you started.

Personal series home starter kit | Primal | £41.99

This kit from Primal is curated for beginners of at home workouts. It includes essential fitness tools such as a speed rope, glute bands, ab wheel, fitness mat, 6kg kettlebell, 3kg dumbbells, and a massage ball to enhance strength and overall wellbeing. Using the kit will help to elevate every part of your routine, from strengthening and toning your body during the workout, to relieving muscle tension and soreness at the end.

Primalstrength.com

6-in-1 dumbbell, barbell, and kettlebell push up set

Strongway Gym Supplies | from £79.95

Available in three different weights, this set is perfect for various combinations for at home weight training. It’s easily assembled, easy to use, and doesn’t require much space for storage. The set can be utilised for both upper and lower body workouts, helping to tone and sculpt your abdomen, arms, shoulders, back, chest, and legs. The rubber covered handle means it’s comfortable to use and the rubber covered weight plates mean minimal noise, as well as avoiding damage to the floor.

Strongway.co.uk

Kati Kaia rubber luxury yoga mat | The Positive Company from £85

Add some colour to your workouts with this luxury yoga mat from Kati Kaia at The Positive Company, which comes in two sizes and a range of colours to jazz up your yoga space. It’s thick and natural tree rubber base and vegan suede top create a soft texture that provides excellent joint support. It’s longer and wider than regular yoga mats which gives you the extra space to do more and stretch further.

Thepositive.co

Space saving motorised treadmill | Home Fitness Code from £259.99

A perfect addition to a home that has limited space, this treadmill can be and stored upright or under a sofa, bed, or desk when not in use. It’s two modes of walking and running will meet all fitness abilities, whether you want to increase your heartrate with some cardio by jogging or simply get your steps in while working from home.

Homefitnesscode.com

Peloton bike | Peloton | from £1,095

The Peloton bike is one of the most famous exercise bikes on the market, and for good reason. When paired with a Peloton membership, the bike offers live and on-demand classes to fit your schedule and gives you a front-row seat in every class, as well as the ability to stream TV shows, films, and live sports while you work out with an immersive HD touchscreen. You can achieve your goals with tailored training programmes to suit any ability and see in-workout metrics where you can track your performance across workouts.

Onepeloton.co.uk

We take a look at some cracking kosher wines to enjoy this new year.

Top Tipples

Throughout history, wine has been at the centre of ritual Jewish life and that’s no different in today’s world. But what makes a wine kosher? Grapes are always kosher in their natural state, but the ingredients involved in the production sometimes aren’t. In order for your favourite wines to adhere to Jewish law, the manufacturing process differs slightly to non-kosher wines.

To ensure a wine is completely kosher, a Sabbath-observant person must handle the entire process, from the crushing of grapes to the final bottling. Fining agents are used by some winemakers to remove the unwanted aspects of a wine, including clarification for colour, aroma, or bitterness. Kosher winemakers choose to use mineral materials as an alternative to traditional non-kosher fining agents, such as bentonite clay and charcoal carbon to perfect their wine. In recent years, natural winemaking processes have risen significantly, with winemakers forgoing fining agents in pursuit of the most natural final product.

Here's our pick of a few exciting kosher wines to enjoy over the Yom Tovs.

Flam Rosé | Kosher Wine Cellar | £34.99

With Cabernet Franc grapes grown in the heart of the Judean Hills in Israel, this rosé is an amazing addition to your new year celebrations. It’s light, almost translucent, appearance is home to a citrusy aroma that’s packed with lots of grapefruit and nectarine. Great with lighter dishes such as fish and grilled vegetables. Kosherwinecellar.co.uk

Baron Herzog Chardonnay | The Grapevine | £16.99

This Chardonnay produced by Baron Herzog is a blend of Central Coast and Russian River Chardonnay grapes which give it a lush and complex flavour. It displays notes of apple, tropical fruit, and citrus, with a hint of vanilla on the finish. An ideal accompaniment with fish and chicken that should be served slightly chilled.

Kosherwine.co.uk

Botteotto Montepulciano d’Abruzzo | Honest Grapes | £22.70

This fruity and spicy red wine is packed with flavour, including hints of chocolate, barrels, cherries, plums, and herbs. The Montepulciano grape has many strong qualities such as strength, exuberance, vitality, balance, and depth, making this wine best to pair with rich, savoury dishes to enhance big and bold flavours.

Honestgrapes.co.uk

Mogen David Pomegranate Dessert Wine | Ace Market | £9.99

The perfect accompaniment to desserts due to its sweetness, Mogen David pomegranate wine is a fruity wine made from pomegranates with a bright, tart flavour with hints of berry and citrus. This tipple isn’t out of place beside fruit tarts, chocolate, and cheesecake, or on its own as an after-dinner sipper.

Acemarket.co.uk

Coming Up

Check out our top picks of the upcoming watches and reads to engross yourself in.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 | Out now | Prime Video

Season two of The Rings of Power is back for us to enjoy. The series brings the heroic legends of the fabled second age of Middle-earth’s history to our screens. It’s set thousands of years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings books and takes viewers back to an era in which kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, and the greatest villain that Tolkien ever created threatened to cover all the world in darkness. The new season plunges even its most beloved and vulnerable characters into a rising tide of darkness as friendships are strained and kingdoms begin to fracture.

Intermezzo | Sally Rooney 24th September | Faber

Author of bestselling Normal People is back with her latest novel, Intermezzo. The story follows Peter and Ivan Koubek who, aside from the fact they’re brothers, seem to have very little in common. Peter is a successful lawyer in his thirties who is juggling relationships with two different women. Ivan is a 22-year-old competitive chess player who has always seen himself as the anthesis of his older brother, who begins a relationship with an older woman. The story explores family dynamics and how the men navigate life and brotherhood in the wake of their father’s recent death.

LEE | In theatres 13th September

Kate Winslet stars as one of the most important photographers of her time, Lee Miller, as she embarks onto the frontline of the First World War to capture some of the most significant wartime images for British Vogue. Despite the struggles of being a female correspondent and the emotional toll of witnessing the atrocities of war, Lee is determined to do her part and document the truth, no matter what the personal cost may be. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Andy Samberg, Alexander Skarsgård, Marion Cotillard, and Josh O’Connor.

Jack Whitehall: Fatherhood with My Father | September | Netflix

Off the back of the successful Travels with My Father series, Jack Whitehall and his dad Michael Whitehall are back with a new format for the show. Jack welcomed a baby boy in September 2023, and the new series follows how Jack and Michael’s relationship changes in the lead up to Jack becoming a dad. Fatherhood with My Father will also follow the Whitehall’s on an adventure to discover the answers to parenthood’s endless questions.

Joker: Folie à Deux | In theatres 4th October

The highly anticipated sequel to the first Joker film is due for release at the beginning of October. Joaquin Phoenix is reprising his role at the title character, with Lady Gaga joining the cast as his love interest and famous DC anti-hero, Harley Quinn, with other big names such as Steeve Coogan and Brandan Gleeson starring alongside them. The film follows failed comedian Arthur Fleck (the Joker) and Harley as they embark on a doomed romantic misadventure after the two meet while Arthur is incarcerated at Arkham State Hospital.

It’s

National Vegetarian Week from 1st to 7th October. Embrace the meat-free lifestyle with some of our recommendations for turning your favourite meaty meals into a vegetarian triumph with delicious meat-free alternatives.

A report from National Food Strategy in 2021 found that we should be eating 30% less meat by 2030 to better our health and the planet. For the daily meat eater, this reduction only requires two meat-free days a week. Whether you’re looking for a lifestyle switch to vegetarian or are just looking for meat-free inspiration, we’ve got you covered with some of the best substitutes for your favourite traditionally meaty dishes, and where you can find them if you’re not in the mood for cooking.

Tofu

Tofu doesn’t have to be the bland and tasteless ingredient it’s sometimes thought of as. The variety of textures mean it’s at home in an extensive range of dishes. When marinated, medium to firm tofu absorbs flavours amazingly, making it a great protein source in flavourful meals such as stir fries and curries. Super firm tofu is perfect for pan or deep frying. Add it to a tasty sauce, put it in a burger or simply serve it by itself for a crispy chicken alternative.

Where in Manchester?

Salt & Pepper | Manchester

Arndale

You’ll find tasty crispy tofu chunks that can be flavoured with salt and pepper or served in a sticky Chinese sauce. On Instagram @saltpeppermcr

Nut roast

It doesn’t get more classic than a Sunday dinner, where meat is often the star. This doesn’t always have to be the case as making a nut roast is just as delicious and nutritious. The great thing about making a nut roast is that it can be tailored to your tastes, you can pack it with a range of ingredients, including lentils, mushrooms, and nuts.

Where in Manchester?

Elnecot | Ancoats

A delicious nut roast with all the trimmings, including vegan gravy and gluten free stuffing. Elnecot.com

Meat the Future

Fake meat

Designed to replicate conventional meats, fake meats are made from a host of different ingredients that are created to mimic the appearance, taste, and sensory experience from eating meat. These alternatives are the best place to start your with meat-free products as they can be used directly in place of meat, with no fuss. Use these instead of beef mince in pies, chilli, and lasagne, or to replicate your favourite cheeseburger.

Where in Manchester?

Vegan Shack | Collyhurst and Piccadilly Gardens

Whether it’s loaded fries, a burger, or chick’n nuggets, your cravings will be covered at Vegan Shack with their mock meat alternatives. Veganshack.co.uk

Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a versatile ingredient that can be used across the board in snacks, sides, and main dishes. Whether they’re used in a stew, pressed into burgers or pureed into spreads and dips, chickpeas are an all-round ingredient. They’re not only used in savoury dishes but great for desserts and sweet treats as well. The water that chickpeas are stored in can be turned into aquafaba, a plant-based alternative to egg whites used in baking for meringues and mousses.

Where in Manchester?

Campo Blanco | Whitefield

Chickpeas are the star in multiple dishes, including the hummus and a tapas dish that’s cooked with spinach, a red pepper sauce, and topped with feta cheese.

Campoblanco.co.uk

Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with

some alternatives!vegetarian

Soup

Looking for chicken soup flavour without the chicken? Adding a generous amount of olive oil will create a golden broth, typically provided by chicken skin. Using herbs such as dried onion powder will add savoury depth without meaty stock.

Brisket

Seitan is a popular meat substitute made from whole wheat flour or vital wheat gluten and is an excellent brisket alternative. Make sure the seitan is as delicious as traditional brisket by infusing it with as much flavour as possible through its braising liquid with ingredients such as red wine vinegar, vegetable broth, and garlic powder.

Chopped liver

Mushrooms, lentils, and walnuts can give this plant-based version of a traditional classic it’s unique flavour. The vegetarian chopped dip is perfect paired with fresh celery and some fresh challah.

Caring Excellence

Carers at Belong at Home Didsbury and Altrincham are celebrating seven years of success after being awarded a place in the UK’s top home care groups for another year.

The service, which is operated out of Belong Morris Feinmann care village on Palatine Road, is part of the Belong at Home group, which was ranked in the country’s Top 20 Large and Mid-size Home Care Groups 2024 based on independent reviews on leading comparison website, Homecare.co.uk.

One daughter of a client wrote: “Belong at Home has been wonderful in helping us as a family to support Mum in her own home after her dementia diagnosis. The caring and welltrained team is incredibly dedicated, creative, kind, and resourceful.”

Another said: “We feel like our family member is getting a very high standard of care and we trust Belong to do everything we need, enabling our family member to stay at home and have as good a quality of life as possible. The carers are all lovely, well-trained, and genuinely care about our family member.”

The carers support people in their homes in and around South Manchester, as well as those residing in the Belong Morris Feinmann apartments to live independently, with the achievement recognising their outstanding performance assisting older people with one-to-one personal care, housekeeping, food preparation, as well as running errands, helping

with excursions, and offering companionship.

Clients also have the option to take advantage of the Experience Days day care service at the Palatine Road Village, with the option of a transport service for those who need it.

Andrew Shield, Head of Operations at Belong at Home, said: “We are very pleased that the hard work and dedication of our teams is recognised by our customers and their families, and we are grateful for their feedback – it really is encouraging. They are the experts in what they need, and we are privileged to support them to live their lives as independently as they can.”

The accolade comes as the organisation continues its recruitment drive, providing opportunities for support workers, as well as training roles for local people new to care. Its not-for-profit status enables it to continuously reinvest in its team to provide award-winning care to customers. Belong at Home is one of the few community care operators to recompense colleagues for travel time between appointments.

Arrange a visit to Belong, call 0161 804 4200 or email enquiries@belong.org.uk. Belong.org.uk

BELONG AT HOME DIDSBURY AND ALTRINCHAM COLLEAGUES CELEBRATED THEIR AWARD SUCCESS.

AS WELL AS SUPPORT WITH PERSONAL CARE AND DOMESTIC DUTIES, BELONG AT HOME OFFERS COMPANIONSHIP VISITS.

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST

Moving to Belong Morris Feinmann is an opportunity to be part of a vibrant community. Our care village provides a state-of-the-art environment, high quality 24-hour support and advanced dementia design. A wide ranging programme of activities and events help promote independence, wellbeing and an active lifestyle.

Village facilities include bistro and salon, open to the public

Morris Feinmann

Cost Effective

Alan Kinnaird, Investment Manager at Walker Crips, lays out how to reduce the annual costs and charges associated with investment portfolios.

Alan Kinnaird has managed portfolios for private clients, charities and trusts for over 30 years. He is a fully qualified investment manager based in Walker Crips Investment Management’s York office.

In this month’s article, Alan has written about the steps investors could take to reduce the annual costs and charges associated with their investment portfolios.

Alan has also extended an invitation for lunch at the Walker Crips Autumn Investment Conference at the Grand Hotel, York on 11th October 2024. Tickets for this lunchtime event are limited to the first ten people to register an interest. The details for this event are below. To register your interest please email alan. kinnarid@wcgplc.co.uk.

How to reduce investment costs with 3 simple steps

Most individuals and business owners have a vague idea about what they would like their retirement to look like, but many have only a vague idea of when they might be able to retire.

It is important to keep an eye on the costs of your pension or Individual Savings Account (“ISA”) portfolios as, even though they can feel like a small amount, the expenses may eat away at the overall value. Most individuals do not know what the underlying costs of their pension or ISA-based investments are and many more will have lost track of the value of their various pension pots, which is why it is so important to review these regularly.

It is possible to quickly find out what the annual costs and charges are within your ISA and pension plans by following these three steps:

1. Establish what the ‘annual costs and charges’ figures are for your portfolio.

2. Find out whether your ISA & pension portfolio costs could be reduced.

3. Engage with an investment specialist to carry out a review.

Alan Kinnaird of Walker Crips Investment Management would like

Step 1: Establish what the annual costs are on your investment or pension portfolio

Under current UK legislation, all clients should receive an ‘Annual Cost and Charges’ report in their annual ISA or pension statement. This will be in either hard or electronic format.

This report is often overlooked by clients, but it is very useful to see where potential savings could be made.

The Annual Cost and Charges report is a reliable way for investors to track how much of the ISA or pension investment portfolio is being taken away by annual charges.

Anecdotal evidence within the industry suggests that clients can pay as much as 2%+ each year in annual costs and charges if they are not careful.

Over the decades, I have helped many private clients to drastically reduce their Total Annual Costs and Charges by providing a free initial review of their current investment providers.

• Key point: Any reduction in the annual running costs of an investment portfolio may help you towards an early retirement.

Step 2: Look at the makeup of your current ISA and pension portfolios and assess whether there are alternatives that could reduce the costs

Key point

• Exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) tend to have much lower annual costs and charges compared to active funds – often as much as 90% lower.

The second step to reducing costs is to consider whether you are comfortable with the higher annual charges you may be paying through owning an actively managed portfolio, such as a Unit Trust.

The justification for the extra cost is that you are paying for active management which will hopefully result in better outcomes. However, there is very little evidence to suggest that these higher-charging actively managed portfolios outperform their benchmark over the longer term.

As an alternative to investing exclusively in higher-charging actively managed funds, many clients now invest some, or all, of their portfolio in passive-based investments – such as ETFs, which seek to replicate the constituents and performance of their chosen index. ETFs can match the investment performance of their chosen benchmark by simply holding investments that mirror the constituents of the benchmark, such as the FTSE 100 index.

• A FTSE 100 ETF may have an annual charge of 0.10%

• By contrast, an active UK Equity fund may have an annual charge of 1.0%

• All 90% of the savings flow to the investor through lower annual charges.

In my experience, clients will consider investing part of their portfolios in equity ETFs for the longer term as their cost structure is much lower.

Step 3: Engage with an investment specialist to potentially reduce your annual cost and charges

The normal areas where Annual Costs and Charges can run too far ahead include the following:

1. High portfolio management and research fees.

2. High commission rates on trades can quickly cause the portfolio value to dip.

3. High annual safe custody charges and investment platform fees.

4. High fund charges within Unit Trusts.

The world of investments can be unnecessarily complicated and navigating your way through the smoke and mirrors of the Annual Cost and Charges report can be a daunting process for many people.

Investment specialists know what to look out for when assessing the costs of a portfolio and can simplify the process of reducing those costs. Please feel free to contact me on 020 3100 8130 or via my email address: alan.kinnaird@ wcgplc.co.uk to start this conversation.

Readers Invitation

RSVP – Your Invitation to our Walker Crips’ October Investment Conference

Alan Kinnaird of Walker Crips Investment Management would like to wish all his clients a Happy New Year.

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans on holding her first Autumn Budget on 30th October 2024. Ahead of this event, we would like to invite you to apply for a free ticket to our Autumn Investment Conference which will be held on Friday 11th October 2024 at noon in the Grand Hotel, York. There will be a three-course lunch included alongside talks from industry experts.

Walker Crips was first established in 1914.

Tickets are limited and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Alan Kinnaird

To arrange a free initial discussion about our investment management services, please contact Alan in our York office.

If you wish to apply for one of the 10 free tickets available or discuss anything covered in this article, please send your request to Alan Kinnaird by 10 am on Friday 27th September 2024 via email: alan.kinnaird@wcgplc.co.uk or telephone: 020 3100 8130.

020 3100 8130

Guest speakers will include the following:

alan.kinnaird@wcgplc.co.uk

• Jon Bell - BNY Mellon Global Equity Income Fund

• Alan Kinnaird – Walker Crips Investment Management

• Pensions (SSAS & SIPP specialist) – from Walker Crips Financial Planning/Walker Crips Pensions

Walker Crips Investment Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The value of your investment can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invested.

Calling All Bookworms!

12th October is Bookshop Day! Celebrate by heading out to one of Manchester’s independent bookshops, full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

Chapter One

This indie shop is based in Northern Quarter is packed with a varied collection of literature. Inside the shop you’ll find eclectic décor that ranges from a chic and cosy café to a bookshelf lined Victorian-esque reading room complete with banker’s lamps at each table. Find a new favourite inside and sip on your hot drink of choice in the café while you get started on it.

Chapteronebooks.co.uk

Paramount Books

This family-operated shop first opened its doors in 1965 and has been a city centre fixture ever since. Inside is a trove of second-hand and rare books, as well as a healthy selection of comic books. You can also find a selection of vintage magazines and newspapers, all nestled inside an equally vintage interior. With so many rare finds collected in one place, it’s easy to spend an afternoon lost in the stacks.

Paramountbooks.co.uk

The House of Books and Friends

As the name might suggest, The House of Books and Friends is an independent and purpose-led bookshop with a singular mission: to combat loneliness. All of the shop’s profits are reinvested into this mission. Inside you’ll find shelves stacked with bestsellers and old favourites alike. The shop also holds a café and puts on several events a month, including various book

clubs and book themed events, so head over to immerse yourself in a world of books and chat to likeminded book lovers.

Houseofbooksandfriends.com

Didsbury Village Bookshop

This shop is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away inside The Art of Tea in Didsbury. The interior looks like something out of a book itself, with floor to ceiling bookshelves creating a labyrinth of literature. There are a few cosy spots inside where you can sit tucked away with your favourite story. While the shop itself is relatively small, there’s a lot packed in it! You can find everything from classic literature to the latest celeb biography.

On Instagram @didsburyvillagebookshop

Anywhere Out of the World

Anywhere Out of the World’s name is apt, as the shop feels like a break from the busy city below its first floor location in Tib Street. It stocks exclusively second-hand offerings, shelved against exposed brickwork walls. There are a few seats and tables dotted about if you want to spend an afternoon perusing the shop’s offerings. Just make sure it’s between Thursday and Sunday when the shop is open. As for the hours, they’re nominally between 12pm and 6pm, however the owner varies these depending on how busy it is.

Anywhereoutofthe.world

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves is planning to hold her first Autumn Budget on 30th October 2024.

Ahead of this event, Walker Crips would like to invite you to apply for a free ticket to our Autumn Investment Conference which will be held on Friday 11th October 2024 at 12 noon within the Grand Hotel, York.

See more details on the previous pages.

To

Colour Me Trendy

Next year may still be a while away, but trend forecasters already have an idea of the colours that we should expect to see in home décor trends in 2025. Trend predictions often reflect the world around us, and that’s apparent in next year’s forecast.

The effect climate change is having on our overall sense of security and wellbeing will be having an even greater effect on our lifestyles in 2025 than it is now. Influenced by climate change’s threat to the planet, we’ll be seeking reassurance, escapism, security, and confidence which will be reflected in our living spaces. We’ll also start to notice nods towards AI and the ever-growing technological advances in society in our home décor choices.

The acceleration of climate change resulting in a drier and warmer world pushes us towards colours that remind us of our most important resource, water, meaning we’ll be seeing a lot of blue shades as well as bright tones of yellows and pinks that highlight a growing consumer need to connect with nature. WGSN – one of the world’s leading consumer trend forecasters – in collaboration with Coloro, has given its insights into next year’s colour trends and identified five key colours that we’ll be seeing a lot more of.

Future dusk

Branded by WGSN as its Colour of the Year for 2025, future dusk sits between blue and purple and has a sense of mystery and escapism. It will be an important colour for classic styles and investment pieces, being used as a more exciting alternative to navy, or as a gender-inclusive purple. Its otherworldly qualities align with the influence of the second space age where science and technology are accelerating the space economy, giving future dusk a celestial appeal.

Our pick

A sofa is one of the most important investment pieces you’ll make when it comes to home décor and this three-seater is a great way to incorporate a very similar shade to future dusk.

Darlingsofchelsea.co.uk | £1511

Transcendent pink

The barely-there hue of transcendent pink is an elevated neutral shade with a sense of stability that’s comforting and very versatile, that will span across genders, demographics, and seasons. Transcendent pink’s dusty colour is already being seen in virtual worlds and digital spaces, and it’s grounding and balancing properties will be making its way into our homes in the real world soon.

Our pick

Add some cosiness to your space with this dusty pink throw.

Countrymouse.co.uk | £79

We take a look at the colour trends that are predicted to take the interior design world by storm in the upcoming year.

Aquatic awe

This transformative turquoise shade celebrates the wondrous aspects of nature, as well as having a synthetic quality that connects with digital themes of the world. This duality bridges fantasy and reality, drawing themes from sea life, ocean ecosystems, as well as immersive virtual spaces. Our pick

Not only does the colour of this table lamp resonate with the ocean, but its design does too. Sweatpeaandwillow.com | £790

Sunset coral

Sunset coral is an energising and feelgood shade that appeals to the pursuit of joy. The colour also encourages resetting to prioritise life’s pleasures and speaks to the growing importance of escapism in challenging times, with its saturation level tapping into the virtues of slowing down as a form of self-care.

Ray flower

A radiant yellow that’s warm and inviting, ray flower is an inherently optimistic and wholesome shade that aligns with a growing focus on approaches to sustainability, inspired by regenerative practices that protect biodiversity. It’s radiance also connects with the lunar eclipses that will occur in 2025, linking this yellow hue to every part of nature, from Earth to space.

Flying High

Israeli airline Arkia will now be operating two flights a week between Manchester and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion airports. We chat with some key people about the new service and why travelling to Israel is so important.

Whether you are visiting friends and family, going on business or just to show support, its great news for readers looking to go out to Israel. As of October it will no longer be necessary to travel down south to catch a direct flight to Tel Aviv. Israeli Airline Arkia recently announced the inclusion of Manchester to its schedule. It will operate two flights per week to Ben Gurion Airport, scheduled for Mondays and Fridays, starting 14th October. Michael Ben Baruch, Director UK & Ireland, Israel Government Tourist Office; Liat Bell Sommer, Head of Communications and Government Relations at Arkia Israeli Airline; and Haim Katz, Minister of Tourism of Israel, tell us more about how this is going to benefit the Jewish communities in both Manchester and Leeds.

Since October 7th many members of our community have been supporting Israel through various methods, from vigils to fundraising. According to Michael Ben Baruch, visiting the country though is the ultimate show of support: “Those who travel to the country are active participants in its societal healing and recovery from the difficult period people in Israel have experienced and are still going through. It is estimated that between 10% and15% of the population is affected by the lack of incoming tourism, so every visit to Israel is an expression of support.”

Michael goes on to discuss how the war has affected Israel’s tourism industry: “Like many other sectors, the brutal attacks by Hamas on October 7th have severely impacted incoming tourism to Israel. By September 2023, we were on track to reach record numbers similar to pre-COVID times – 4.5 million tourists from around the world. Despite the current situation, I am encouraged by the significant number of visitors from the UK.”

Israel is still focused on boosting its tourist trade. Haim Katz outlines what the Ministry has done to help: “Early on, I ensured that residents evacuated from conflict zones would be relocated to hotels, providing them with a suitable alternative while helping hotels navigate the crisis. We worked to expand compensation for businesses in the conflict zone so that even businesses in tourism-based communities would be compensated. Recently, we secured 70 million shekels (approx. 14.7 million GBP) in assistance to retain essential workers in the tourism industry. Additionally, we are currently formulating a policy for the rehabilitation of hotels that hosted residents evacuated from their homes, with an allocated budget of 200 million shekels (approx. 41 million GBP).”

Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat, the Dead Sea, and Tiberias — all are operating as usual. Israel’s gates were never closed and the number of flights from the UK into Ben Gurion Airport have been gradually increasing.”

The new service from Arkia was announced at a time when concerns of safety and security are heightened, with other airlines still not back in service on the route. Liat Bell Sommer explained why Manchester was the best option for a new flight itinerary:

“When we thought about launching the new route to Manchester, we thought about the needs of the Israeli public and the Jewish community in the UK. Since October 7th, we have seen that the Jewish community around the world is eager to visit Israel and support the communities that were severely affected by the war. Now, thanks to Arkia's direct flights, they can visit Israel much more easily. Of course, Israelis also have a great interest in visiting Manchester, the capital of world football!”

Naturally, despite the figures, the war has made some travelers hesitant to head to Israel. Haim understands these concerns but offers this reassurance: “We want to reassure those hesitant to visit that tourism areas have remained the safest throughout the war — Tel

Even those who have visited the country many times before may be surprised by some of its hidden gems, as Michael shares: “Personally, I recommend exploring the Negev. I’m admittedly biased since I’ve lived there all my life, but it truly is a wonderful place to discover. It offers breathtaking landscapes, numerous marked hiking trails, diverse communities, a developing culinary and wine scene with many wineries, fascinating archaeology, rich history, and more. I also recommend the Dor-Habonim Beach Nature Reserve, which I believe is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Israel and the world. This perfect reserve is filled with charming coves, even more stunning hiking trails, and archaeological remains of an ancient port city. I also have a deep love for the city of Haifa, which is the best example of coexistence between Jews and Arabs in Israel.

"Those visiting in December have the opportunity to participate in the "Holiday of Holidays" celebrations, a festival named to reflect the joy of all the religious holidays that occur during this period: Chanukah, Christmas, and Ramadan. Another mustsee stop when visiting Haifa is the Talpiot Market; its excellent culinary scene, combined with its authentic and unique atmosphere, offers a wonderful way to spend Friday afternoons.”

Arlia.il

Goisrael.com

LIAT BELL SOMMER.

HAIM KATZ.

MICHAEL BEN BARUCH.

NEW IN CLASS

We meet Bury & Whitefield Jewish Primary School’s new Deputy Head Teacher, David Witkin, as he starts his new role.

As soon as the position of Deputy Head at Bury & Whitefield Jewish Primary School (BWJPS) became available, Prestwich local David Witkin jumped at the opportunity. He was already familiar with the school, so it seemed a match made in heaven: “I was working at William Hulme Grammar School in South Manchester for eight years. It’s quite a large school and they have Nursery all the way up to Sixth Form. It was quite a long commute, and I’d been looking for something closer to home and more senior to progress my career. It’s a school that I know well. I grew up in Prestwich and went to King David. During the interview process I spent the day at the school, had to deliver a lesson, have an interview, and then also spoke to the school council. It was really interesting to be questioned by the children and get to hear their thoughts.”

Clearly David made an excellent impression, as he was offered the role, but the school also left an impact on him through the interview process with lots to look forward to: “Immediately I could see what a friendly and warm school it was, which made me eager to push on with it. When I got the role I was really happy. I’m definitely excited about working as Deputy Head. As part of the role, I’ll also be a class teacher, but I think having that additional responsibility is what I’m really to looking forward to. Especially the opportunity to bring my own ideas and my own experience to the school. A few years ago it got a Great Ofstead

rating, so I’m really looking forward to building on that and helping the school to develop further.”

Through the interview process, David did get to speak with the school’s former Deputy Headteacher Chloe Whittington who he’ll be taking over from, and she had some good advice to impart: “She’s been very helpful in helping me to find my feet and understand how the school works, and the roles and responsibilities I’ll be taking over. She was here for a very long time

and is sad to leave, but she’s been very positive in saying what a great school it is.”

David already has some idea of the main focus for his new role: “A big part of my work is going to be to help develop the teaching and learning in the school. To look at the way that lessons are taught to try and make them even more exciting and engaging for the children. And then another big focus is going to be to help the school keep growing with more and more children coming through.”

Click and Collect

Help your children to manage and develop their own learning outside of the classroom with an online course, building skills and knowledge in a way that works for them.

Preply | Variable

Preply is an online resource connecting you directly with private tutors. There are a plethora of subjects available: everything from English and Maths to Mandarin and Computer Sciences. Choose your learning preferences and get matched with tutors who fit your budget and schedule. You are able to watch their intro videos, read through their profile and reviews, and chat with them to make sure they are the right fit for your child.

Preply.com

Children’s University | £3.50 per month

Children’s University is an award scheme for children that encourages them to take part in learning outside of the classroom, allowing them to track their progress through stamps and certificates. Stamps are awarded for taking part in all kinds of activities, including clubs, activities done with the family, or even alone. Children can keep a log of everything they do, and each hour of participation takes them one step closer to their next certificate.

Childrensuniversity.co.uk

Centre of Excellence | £147 per course

Many of our readers may know Centre for Excellence as a tool for professional development in adults, but there’s also a section of the website entirely dedicated to children’s courses. Here you can not only

find courses on more mainstream subjects such as history or biology, but also more niche interests such as steam engines, dinosaurs, or space, if your child has a particular passion you’d like to help nurture. The courses provide a certificate at the end, adding to your child’s qualifications.

Centreofexcellence.com

Class Central | Price variable

Class Central operates a little bit differently than the other options on this list, in that it collects together different courses available across the web, rather than providing its own courses. The service started as a way to keep track of the free online classes being offered by Stanford University. The best part is that the majority of the courses are entirely free of charge, though there are some paid courses available too. Help your kids learn chess, new languages, or even programming!

Centreofexcellence.com

Khan Academy | Free

While it is centred around an American schoolchild’s course of study, Khan Academy is still a great resource for kids in the UK. With practice exercises, instructional videos, and a personalised learning dashboard, children can study at their own pace, outside of the classroom. The service is a not-for-profit, and completely free. Subjects covered include maths, science, arts and humanities, economics, and language arts.

Khanacademy.org

In the News

We check in with some of the latest happenings from our local schools and colleges.

Sports Scholarships for Bolton School

Five students from Bolton School have been awarded prestigious scholarships to further their athletic and academic endeavours in America.

Ruby Hurt, a rising star in lacrosse, will study at Florida Institute of Technology. Ruby has represented Wales in the European Championships and hopes to secure a spot on the All-American team.

Ella Brophy is another excellent lacrosse player who has been playing since she was nine and has played for England’s under 18s team. She will also be going to Florida Tech to pursue her dream of championship success. Harriet Dickens has gained a sports scholarship to the University of Michigan. She’s an example of excellence in water polo, earning accolades locally and internationally and captaining Great Britain’s U19s at the European Championships.

Outstanding golfer Joe Emery who placed fifth overall in this year’s European Open and finished in the top three in the Lancashire U18s. His scholarship is with Bluefield State University in West Virginia.

Max Goodwin has played football for several different clubs, including Bolton School’s team – culminating this year as first team goalkeeper – and Chorley’s U21s. He will be studying at Indiana Tech University with a football scholarship.

As these elite athletes prepare to embark on their collegiate journeys overseas, their dedication, perseverance, and commitment serves as an inspiration to all.

Boltonschool.org

MGS Celebrates Excellent Results

The Manchester Grammar School is celebrating another year of excellent examination results for its Sixth Form and GCSE pupils.

Over a third of all A Level grades were at the highest A* level, while 85% of grades were A*to B. 33 boys achieved three or more A* grades, and 88 achieved three or more A grades.

Oxford and Cambridge offered places to 25 of the school’s students; these are just two of the many Russell Group universities to which MGS boys will be heading this autumn. Others include Imperial, UCL, LSE, Durham, Warwick, York, KCL, Manchester, Nottingham, and Leeds.

Outgoing School Captain Daniel, from Cheadle Hulme, achieved an impressive three A* and one A grade in his A Level examinations. He will be continuing his educational journey at the esteemed Pembroke College, Oxford, where he will study Chinese.

The High Master, Dr Martin Boulton, said: “This year’s results place The Manchester Grammar School in a very select number of schools nationally. I am absolutely delighted that the hard work and dedication of the pupils has been rewarded with excellent grades and that this will enable them to move on to study a diverse range of courses at leading universities. I would like to wish them every success as they take their next exciting steps in their academic journeys.”

For GCSE results, 40% of all grades were at the very highest grade 9 level and two-thirds of all grades achieved were 9 or 8 (the equivalent of an A*). 10 boys received all nines, 44 all nines and eights and 101 received all nines, eights and sevens (equivalent to A*/A). Just a few of the many highlights were 72% of Computer Science, 78% of Further Maths and 82% of Music results were graded 9.

Outstanding Results at Stockport Grammar

With their amazing results, Stockport Grammar students are looking forward to exciting futures in the worlds of university and work.

47% of A Level grades at the school were at A* and A, and 90% at A* to C.

Tuguldur’s four A*s have secured his place to study Chemistry at the University of Oxford. He thanked his teachers saying: “They really want you to get to your full potential, and you’re supported and encouraged to apply to Oxbridge.” Tuguldur got fully involved in Stockport Grammar’s super-curricular programme with the Maths and Physics Olympiads and Chemistry extension.

Three A*s and one A see Phoebe off to the University of Birmingham to study Psychology while Anna is heading to Durham University to study English Literature, also with three A*s and an A.

Among the school’s future medics, two pupils received an A* and two As.

Head of School Raayan is looking forward to starting his degree apprenticeship with PWC, one of the world’s largest international accounting and professional services firms. And Georgia is excited to start her degree in Computer Science.

Head of Senior School, Mrs Sarah Capewell, said: “These were a superb set of A Level results and are a well-deserved reward for the hard work and determination shown by our pupils and the dedicated support offered by their teachers. We look forward to seeing the great things they will achieve as they take their next steps beyond SGS.”

Meanwhile the GCSE results at the school were equally impressive. Over 22% of grades are at the highest grade of 9, and 63% are at 9, 8 and 7.

Love for All

The Friendship Circle offers workshops at Jewish Primary schools across Manchester, boosting the community’s inclusivity and compassion.

One child’s experience at her seventh birthday party led to the creation of a unique disability awareness programme in five local Jewish primary schools, run by Manchester charity the Friendship Circle. Its inspiring sessions have a lasting positive impact both on its members and the children they meet, helping to break down the barriers of difference and, according to King David Primary School’s Head of Jewish Studies Rayna Glickman, helping to “nurture and build future generations of kinder, more caring people who are inclusive of everyone.”

One of the proudest moments in Rayna’s 30-year teaching career came in July of this year following the school’s inspection by Pikuach – the statutory equivalent of OFSTED, accredited by the Department for Education to appraise religious education at Jewish schools in the UK. The results were a resounding success, outstanding across all categories.

As part of this achievement, the report referred to the school’s ongoing relationship with the Friendship Circle. Within the highly complementary conclusions was its observation of pupils’ unambiguous pride in their Judaism and “memorable Jewish experiences” afforded by the school. A randomly selected Year 4 pupil quoted in the report told inspectors: “My best moments are lessons with the Friendship Circle... I never knew what people could do with disabilities... I felt that they can do whatever they want.”

According to Rayna and picked up by the report’s authors: “Such experiences reinforce and bring into practice the school’s value of VeAhavata Leraiacha Kamocha – Love the Neighbour as Yourself. To teach children this value you cannot just say it, you have to show them in practical ways. They need to live it, and we as educators must give them opportunities

to see it in practice. We make this possible through the school’s ongoing relationship with the Friendship Circle.”

This close association originated with the experience of a little girl, now a 14-year-old pupil of King David High School. Alongside her siblings, Chanale, daughter of the Friendship Circle’s Programme Director, Esty Bruck, grew up with many of its members as her friends, none more so than Hannah Levy – an outgoing, loving young woman with a huge sunny personality who is non-verbal and has Down’s Syndrome. When it came to her seventh birthday party, Chanale naturally included her.

But Chanale’s school friends struggled to know how to relate to Hannah. There was evident discomfort, and later she announced: “Mummy, I think we need to take our members to schools so that the children have a chance to get to know them.” At that tender age, she grasped the challenge of social inclusion faced by many people with disabilities.

Esty contacted Chanale’s teacher offering to bring members to meet her daughter’s classmates. Her offer accepted; she devised three sessions which to this day form the basis of the Friendship Circle’s ‘Schools Education Programme.’ She recalls those first visits: "It was amazing – our members loved it, and the children were wonderful.”

Having expanded it to other Jewish schools, the programme is offered to all Year 4 pupils aged eight to nine.

“In the first session, we discuss the types of disability people may have – whether physical or developmental – and what they might struggle with as a result. We look at what can be done to make things accessible for them.

“In session two I bring along a small group of members to meet the children who prepare questions such as: ‘Has anyone ever made fun of you because of your disability?’, ‘Do you struggle to make friends?’, or ‘Were you born with your disability?’ Our members love it. One of them, Michaela, describes it as her 'favourite thing to do.’

“Session three is usually a joint art activity when members and pupils chat while creating a wall display. In the final session, they reflect on their learning and the importance of friendship.”

And perhaps we should let the last word come from two of the children who benefited from this year’s programme at King David. Ariella commented that she learned that “disabled people can have so much fun and do so much like us, such as going to stadiums and going on trips to places” while Jessica said the sessions taught her “that it is very important to appreciate our differences.”

Thanks to the wisdom and insight of one remarkable seven-year-old there is much to be hopeful for in our community.

Friendshipcircle.co.uk

CHANALE (LEFT) AND HANNAH LEVY.

Best in Class

Best in Class

Term is about to begin, and freshers are flocking to university. Here are our top picks of some of the most useful gifts to send them on their way.

Polaroid Go generation 2 instant camera | Polaroid | £79.99

This camera from Polaroid is available in four different colours and is the ideal gift for those that want to capture memories of their time at university. It’s the world’s smallest instant camera so it can be taken on the go with ease and produce a physical copy of the pictures within just a few moments after capturing them. There’s a built-in selfie mirror, self-timer, double-exposure modes, and it pairs with its own filters. Great for the sentimental student in your life.

Polaroid.com

Amazon Prime student membership | Amazon | £47.49 a year

Prime is handy for everyone but will especially give forgetful students something to rely on for last minute university supplies. Included in the Prime student membership is a sixmonth free trial, free next day delivery, access to Prime Video and Prime Gaming, and other exclusive offers, including half price membership once the free trial has ended. It might be for textbooks and stationery for studying, or decorations for partying and celebrating but Amazon Prime will undoubtedly cover university students in a multitude of ways.

Amazon.co.uk

Coffees of the world gift set | Whittard | £28

Coffee can quickly become a student’s best friend, whether it’s to keep the momentum going while cramming in the library or waking up for a 9am lecture after a big night. Visits to coffee shops everyday quickly add up, especially for those on an already limited budget. This coffee gift set from Whittard showcases its range of high-quality ground coffee from around the world and is an amazing gift idea for any coffee loving student.

Whittard.co.uk

Custom neon sign | Custom Neon | Starts at £123

Student halls and accommodation often aren’t the homeliest of places at the beginning, so a personalised neon sign is a great way to inject some personality into their space. This customisable sign from Custom Neon has over 40 fonts to choose for whatever message you want, with almost 20 lighting colour options to cater to any unique personality. A tailored neon sign creates a good atmosphere, making students feel more relaxed and comfortable in their new home and is a simple addition to turn a blank room canvas into something a little bit more exciting.

Customneon.co.uk

Open when… letters | Ant Design Gifts | £17.50 to £25.50

Moving to university and away from home can often be a difficult change for a lot of students. This gift set provides empty envelopes for you to fill with a whole range of treats, from sweets, money, jokes, and tokens, to photographs, or just a handwritten letter providing comfort during times of struggle. Each envelope is printed with an ‘open with’ quote, with 29 options to choose from. Some examples of these include open when you miss home, when you’ve run out of money, when you need a study break, and when you need to treat yourself. These are designed to support the recipient during the big leap of leaving home for the first time, even if you can’t be there in person, and are a perfect gift to ease the transition into student life.

Antdesigngifts.co.uk

Tuesday 15 October, 7.00pm-9.00pm

Register at: boltonschool.org/ 6thFormOpenEvenings

Telephone: 01204 840201

Jewish Community

Trustees' Conference

Thurs 19 September 18.00-21.00 Manchester venue

Suitable for Chairs, Trustees, Aspiring Trustees, Charity CEOs, Shul board members and School Governors

“Superb overview into the challenges and opportunities that trustees and leaders face running charities”

Annette Kurer, Chair ORT UK

Activities Week

The Manchester Grammar School details the range of opportunities that pupils could participate in this year.

Every year, for one week in the summer term, all teaching at The Manchester Grammar School pauses, allowing every pupil to participate in a week-long activity of their choice. Typically, 450 pupils embark on residential trips during this week. Some of these activities include: Bassenthwaite Camp (water sports), Borrowdale Camp (walking), Grasmere Camp (mountaineering), Chinese Martial Arts, Fencing & Adventure, Multi Activity Week, Computer Science, and Learning to Ski or Snowboard, among many others.

This programme provides an excellent opportunity for pupils to strengthen friendships both within and across year groups, while challenging themselves to learn new skills and step out of their comfort zones. It serves as a wonderful conclusion to the academic year, allowing pupils to focus on friendships before they embark on the next school year with new friends, fresh academic pursuits, and various challenges.

Founded in 1515, The Manchester Grammar School has established a reputation as one of the top academic schools in the country. The school aims to educate the brightest young men in the North of England, equip them to have the courage to use the understanding they gain, teach them to think for themselves and to develop a lifelong love of learning, produce well-rounded young men who have a true sense of service to their communities, and maintain a vibrant and diverse programme of co-curricular activities within the school.

Activities Week allows the boys to emulate these values and put them into practice, while making memories which will last a lifetime.

To find out more about Activities Week and the opportunities available at MGS, visit the website at Mgs.org and follow the school on social media.

Start the new term right with all the best tech choices for assisting with homework, essays, or just helping to enrich learning.

Chromebook 314 | Acer | £249.99

Chromebooks are an excellent tool for kids as they’re more lightweight than a normal laptop, and often cheaper. With most of the same features as a standard laptop, Chromebooks are perfect for educational use. This model from Acer has a battery that lasts up to 15 hours, has 64gb of storage, and comes with a one-year warranty, so even the clumsiest of children are covered.

Store.acer.com

Galaxy tab S9 FE | Samsung | £389

Samsung’s Galaxy S9 FE tablet is one of the brand’s latest offerings from the Android company. This model is perfect if your child has creative streak as the S pen, a stylus specific for Samsung products, comes with the tablet. This makes drawing, handwriting, and editing photos and videos much easier. Samsung’s trade-in scheme also means if you have old, unused Samsung products, you can trade them in and get up to £250 off your S9 purchase.

Samsung.com

Jr310 wireless headphones | JBL | £39.99

Headphones are a great accessory for when kids are learning, but also for a bit of peace and quiet around the house. If you’ve got more than one child doing homework at the same time, you know it can be a noisy affair. These headphones from JBL come in three bright colours that’ll suit all children and have a safe sound feature which means their volume won’t exceed 85 decibels, keeping little ears safe. With a built-in microphone and easy controls, your kids can chat easily with teachers while they’re busy learning and with friends and family during downtime.

Uk.jbl.com

Echo 2 smart pen | Livescribe | £94.99

The standard biro has had a huge upgrade with the introduction of smart pens. All you need to do is write your notes on Livescribe notebooks, which are provided when you buy the pen, and watch your words get an instant digital makeover in the Livescribe+ app in real time. This smart pen transcribes written notes into over 27 languages and has a turn to text feature which means no matter how messy your writing, it can be transformed into easy-to-read text. This model is perfect for those that struggle with visual learning and prefer audio recordings as it comes with a built-in microphone. Simply speak your notes into the pen and see the audio recording appear in the app, ready for playback.

Uk.livescribe.com

Quizlet

| App Store and Google Play | Plans start from £6.99

There’s no avoiding the fact that apps seem to rule children’s lives these days, so why not get them involved in an educational one? With over 700 million digital flashcards available and a feature to create your own, Quizlet is the one stop shop to keep your revision all in one place. It offers personalised quizzes and practice tests, and expertwritten homework solutions, and is available to download for free with access to most features, but for small fee you get access to ad-free studying and all the learning tools. Quizlet.com/gb

In the News

Bury Grammar School Achieves 100% Pass Rate

This is one of Bury Grammar School’s (BGS) strongest sets of A Level results outside of the COVID era with a perfect 100% pass mark, nearly four in ten grades at A*-A and three quarters of A Level grades at the ‘gold standard’ of A*-B. BGS has a strong reputation for adding value to students’ grades, but this year has smashed records, with students exceeding all expectations and achieving the best ‘value added’ in the school in a decade.

EDUCATIONAL NEEDS EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

SERVICE SERVICE

The vast majority of students have gained a place with their university of choice with students spanning 445.4 miles across the country and one student embarking on a new opportunity in Indiana, USA. Russell Group Universities in the North East and North West remain extremely popular destinations among the students.

Students have achieved exceptional grades across a wide range of subjects and are now preparing to move on to wide range of courses including Accounting, Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies, Applied Sports Studies in Athletics, Artificial Intelligence, Biomedical Science, Creative Music Technology, Dentistry, Fine Art, Film Production, Law, Pharmacology, Medicine, Nursing, Neuroscience, Psychology, Geography, History, Performing Arts, and Veterinary Science at universities throughout the UK.

Success at Withington Girls’ School

There was jubilation and every reason for celebration at Withington Girl’s school, as the school’s Facebook page reported. Year 13 students collected their hard-earned results this morning. Over three in four grades (76%) were achieved at an A* or A grades, with over a third of these grades attained at the very top level.

With the majority of the students who applied achieving places at their chosen universities, a number are opting for other routes including foundation courses in Art and Drama, and a highly soughtafter legal apprenticeship.

GCSE results saw half of the grades in the top grade 9 and four in five (80.6%) with grade 8 or higher. Most pupils will continue with the school in Sixth Form and they will be joined by a group of new students who have also excelled in their GCSEs.

Learning Difficulties

One-to-one help and support for children with special educational needs and their families is available from Inspire 321, a Manchester based consultancy.

Website: Inspire321.com

Email: info@inspire321.com

Phone: 0800 772 3800

Instagram: @inspire321_ltd

Facebook: Inspire 321 ltd

Reah Coo, Founder and Director of Inspire 321, a Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) consultancy, is no stranger to struggling at school and feeling as though her challenges do not affect other students. With 14 years of experience working in schools as an expert in special educational needs, it was her own experience during schooling which drove Reah to found Inspire 321: “I didn’t struggle in the sense that I didn’t do well at school. I did do well, but there was always a barrier that I couldn’t push past. I believe now, based on the work that I do, that I am dyslexic, and I’m having that assessment done at the end of the summer. The things I experienced myself and the trauma that I experienced has led me into a world where I’m now helping families that may struggle with very similar things.”

Inspire 321 works with both parents and at schools to support children. The process begins with a 75-minute assessment with the child and their family, listening to their individual experience, history, concerns, and how they would like to move forward. This information will allow the team to make a plan moving forward, which could include anything from working with the family, contacting the child’s school, reaching out to other agencies, or formal assessments. Each plan is unique and created especially for each family.

Reah’s personal experience of struggling with an undiagnosed learning difficulty offers a unique level of understanding of and empathy for the children she works with. The individual nature of each plan is vital, as every family’s situation is different. In some cases, the situation may necessitate Reah acting as a bridge between the family and school to ensure the child receives the help they need: “I think my experiences bring me a perspective

from both sides. As well as the professional perspective of a SEND consultant, I have the perspective of a young person who struggled and whose parents weren’t equipped to identify that special educational needs were a thing. There are some families that will need me to work with the school to ensure that the child’s needs are being met. For example, I had a parent come to me whose child was really struggling with literacy. It became very apparent that he was struggling, and the work wasn’t pitched correctly for him. He wasn’t making progress, and it seemed as though he was possibly dyslexic. I attended several meetings with mum and the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator at the school, and also suggested a dyslexia assessment, which we also do at Inspire 321. He was diagnosed with dyslexia in the end and we talked through all of the strategies that the school could use to be more effective at meeting his needs.”

One of Reah’s main goals is to ensure that families have the tools to ensure that they are able to communicate openly and support their child through any problems: “My aim is to equip parents to be able to identify that there is a need there for their child, and to know how to support them. I want to provide them with the tools so that once they’ve worked with me, they feel confident enough to go alone. It’s inevitable that the child is going to have a meltdown at some point, so it’s about having the tools and tips to make that moment shorter, not something that is prolonged over days or hours.”

If you think your family or school could benefit from a SEND consultation, visit Inspire321.com

THE PARTY CONTINUED INTO THE EVENING AT RYLANDS FARMHOUSE IN WILMSLOW.

HE WAS SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND LOVED ONES.

CHARLIE CAHILL WAS CALLED UP AT SOUTH MANCHESTER SYNAGOGUE.

CHARLIE’S PARENTS, SHELLEY AND MATT CAHILL, AND HIS SISTER, TESSA, WERE PROUD TO CELEBRATE HIS BAR MITZVAH.

GUESTS DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY WITH A LIVE BAND.

SMILES ALL ROUND FROM THE WHOLE FAMILY.

IN

THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY LOST IN TRANSLATION

Holocaust Centre North is seeking a new writer and translator for its Memorial Gestures artistic residency.

Holocaust Centre North’s innovative Memorial Gestures artistic residency was launched in 2022 to give leading and emerging artists the opportunity to create brand new artwork inspired by its archives and in response to its themes and collections around Holocaust remembrance and history. Earlier this year, for the very first time, the centre also appointed a Translator and a Writer in Residence to join four artists as part of this unique project. They too were invited to respond to and translate the centre’s memories, artefacts and accounts which cover themes of discrimination, displacement, trauma, migration, loss, memory and hope –through creative and artistic practices.

The centre is now seeking to appoint a new translator and writer in residence for its 24/25 programme – these are paid positions and open to established and emerging writers and translators based in the UK.

For the translator-in-residence – Holocaust Centre North is keen to hear from those working with languages spoken by minority communities with a presence in the North of England who have experiences of migration, building a new life in England, and preserving difficult histories. It is particularly interested in working with translators with experience working in languages such as Arabic, Gujarati, Romanian, Punjabi, Polish, Slovak, Ukrainian, Urdu, etc – as well as languages which are particularly relevant to Holocaust history and the centre’s collections (e.g: Czech, French, German, Hebrew, Hungarian).

Andrew Key, Head of Creative Development at Holocaust Centre North, comments: “Already our current and first writer and translator-in-residence have started finding new ways to tell the lesser known stories of Holocaust history, which have lain

TOP TENNIS

buried in our archive. We want to provide a space for writers to find new ways into this difficult past, by exploring new forms or techniques, and by being supported to take steps into an area of research which may appear daunting. Our hope is that the translator-inresidence will have an opportunity to work closely with other communities in the region to find new ways of telling the shared stories of migration in the North, to help foster a celebration of the North’s diversity and history of multiculturalism. Through the programme, we hope to invite people who may have felt excluded from Holocaust history into our Archive, so that we can build a deeper understanding of the ongoing impact of our shared history across the communities in our region today.”

Hcn.org.uk

Jewish Action for Mental Health (JAMH) hosted a successful mini tennis camp at St Mary's Park.

Jewish Action for Mental Health (JAMH) experienced tremendous success at its recent mini tennis camp, held over two days at St Mary's Park. The camp, funded by a Park Life grant, was aimed at promoting physical activity and mental wellbeing among young teenage girls in the Jewish community. Over 12 enthusiastic participants aged 13 to 17 took park all under the expert guidance of a female tennis coach from We Do Tennis.

The camp quickly reached full capacity, with an overwhelming response from the community, leading to the difficult decision of having to turn away additional applicants. Participants were from a variety of local Jewish schools including Jewish High, Meor, Yavneh, and King David.

Leora Chesner, one of the participants shared her excitement about the camp, saying: "The tennis group was fun and enjoyable. Gloria was extremely kind, patient, and skilled at tennis. The atmosphere throughout all our lessons was fantastic, and I really feel that I gained much understanding about tennis, and how to play. Thank you JAMH."

Another participant, Eliana Mason,

expressed her gratitude, saying: "The coaching is brilliant, and every session is not just a learning experience but loads of fun too!"

Gloria, an experienced coach from We Do Tennis who led the camp, was thrilled with the outcome: "It was an absolute pleasure to coach such a passionate and eager group of girls. Their enthusiasm and commitment were truly inspiring, and it was wonderful to see them grow in confidence and skill over the two days. I look forward to working with JAMH on future events to continue supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of young people in our community."

Kate Lurie, Project Manager of JAMH, said: "At JAMH, we understand the importance of offering culturally appropriate activities that align with the values and needs of our community. Hosting a tennis camp with a female coach was a deliberate choice to ensure that the Orthodox members of the Jewish community could fully participate and benefit from the experience. Providing an environment where girls feel comfortable, respected, and understood is crucial to fostering both their physical wellbeing and mental health.”

A Cut Above

Yanky Sonnenschein tells us the background to City Butchers, Prestwich’s new kosher butcher’s inside Kosher City.

Sitting inside Kosher City on Windsor Road in the heart of Prestwich, City Butchers is meeting the kosher meat needs of the community. Open Wednesday to Friday and owned by Yanky Sonnenschein, the butcher is a one-stop shop for the finest quality meat, cut exactly for you.

This is far from Yanky’s first venture into butchery, and some of our readers may recognise him and his trusty right-hand man Mark from their popular Liverpool shop: “The butcher, who works for me now – Mark – and I used to work in a shop in Liverpool together. Then it was taken over by State Fair, and they didn’t want the butchery there anymore. So we decided to go off on our own! We opened up here in Manchester, and actually a lot of our customers from Liverpool come here or we deliver to them. Every week we deliver into Liverpool on a Wednesday, and we get people phoning every week for orders.”

The butchery business seems to run in the family, as Yanky grew up watching his father manning the counter at the family’s London shop: “My father had his own shop years ago, so I’ve been brought up around butchery as has Mark, who’s been doing butchery for about three decades in Berwick Street Market and working the kosher trade for around 20 years.”

As a profession which takes some serious

commitment and craftmanship, most people have a family link which inspired them to go into the trade: “I don’t think that someone just wakes up and thinks: ‘Oh, I’ll do butchery today.’ I think that most people that are in the business have some link or connection. Their father, their grandfather, or a family member did it, you know.”

As a matter of fact, the family history with butchery didn’t start with Yanky’s father. It actually goes back several generations: “My great-grandfather, before the war, had a slaughterhouse, a butchery, a farm; they owned it all.”

Serving only the freshest and highest quality meat, City Butchers operates under the

supervision of Rabbi Binyomin Goldblatt and the London Board of Shechita. Personalised and expert service will ensure you walk away with exactly what you need: “We cater for people who want to come in and get what they asked for. Obviously, you can take it off the shelf as well, but the people who want to be served and see what they’re getting, that’s what we are about.”

Hosting the entire family to celebrate the Yom Tovs means you need lots of quality cuts of meat at a competitive price from a butcher you can trust. No one wants to tuck into an overly tough brisket! City Butchers are there to help your family celebrate in style.

0161 740 3428 #4

And Relax...

Transport yourself to a world of luxury by bringing the spa to the comfort of your own home with our top picks to reach ultimate tranquillity and serenity.

Eventide rejuvenating botanical clay mask | Raven Botanicals | £22

This gentle, purifying treatment for all skin types is a perfect addition to your DIY spa. The mineral-rich French pink clay mask is blended with botanical extracts that activate when mixed with water or oil. It carefully rejuvenates, firms, and lifts dull skin by drawing out toxins to restore clarity to the complexion. The mask is made up of many ingredients that benefit the skin; pink clay gently removes impurities from the pores, rosehip boosts collagen production, and hibiscus naturally exfoliates dead skin cells.

Ravenbotanicals.co.uk

Essential oil bath and body oil gift set | Shaloah Skincare | £45

A gift set doesn’t just have to be given away, treat yourself to these oils from Shaloah Skincare. The versatile oils can be used in the bath, for a massage, or as a body moisturiser and are formulated to invigorate your senses, balance your mood, and calm your mind. Each oil is made up of ethical and sustainable ingredients that are derived from nature. Three oils are included in this set, each with a different scent. There’s uplifting frankincense, myrrh, and orange; comforting rose, sandalwood, and bergamot; and calming lavender, geranium, and chamomile.

Shaloahskincare.co.uk

Hotel velour robe | Tielle Love Luxury | £70

It wouldn’t be a proper spa day without a cosy and luxurious robe, and this one from Tielle Love Luxury is a great option. It’s beautifully plush and fluffy with smooth cotton velour on the outside and absorbent terry towelling on the inside. There are personalisation options on offer too, with a whole range of fonts and colours available to have your name embroidered onto the front of your robe, to make it even more special.

Tielleloveluxury.co.uk

Apothecary calm set | Marks and Spencer | £25

Bring a welcomed sense of relaxation to your home with this set from M&S’ Apothecary range. The set includes a reed diffuser, candle, and a room spray to set the ambience throughout the house. The fragrance is part of the herbal family, which are often considered to have soothing and relaxing qualities, with notes such as lavender, cedar wood, vetiver, and eucalyptus. With a simple and sleek design that won’t look out of place in any house decor, the set gives the impression of high-end indulgence, without the price tag! Marksandspencer.com

Tranquillity pure botanical salts | Mai Joie Botanicals | £16.95

These bath salts from Mai Joie Botanicals are the finest combination of Himalayan, Epsom, and Dead Sea salts that create a base that nourishes your skin, detoxifies your body, and replenishes your soul. The salts definitely live up to the tranquil name, with the calming aroma of lavender, the balancing properties of geranium, the gentle embrace of chamomile, the clarity of clary sage, and the exotic allure of ylang ylang, each botanical ingredient was carefully selected to elevate your bathing experience to a new level of relaxation.

Maijoiebotanicals.co.uk

Ingrowing Toe Nails

NEWS IN BRIEF

Project Smile’s Special Guests

Children attending The Fed’s Project Smile summer play camp had an unforgettable experience when they had some very special visitors. Chaviva Scherer, an Animal Assisted Therapist, brought along a variety of scaled, furry, and spiny animals to spend time with the children.

The children were particularly enamoured with the snakes and feeding lettuce to the rabbits. They also had the chance to meet some stick insects, a hedgehog, tortoises, and even a bearded dragon!

Project Smile is a scheme by The Fed that offers children age and ability-appropriate activities run by its skilled and knowledgeable play leaders, assisted by trained support workers, and volunteers who have a wealth of experience in looking after and responding to the needs of children who have complex and challenging behavioural issues.

King David Primary Student Wins

Six-year-old Brodie Freeman, a pupil at King David Primary School, has been chosen as the winner of JNF UK’s Israel poetry competition.

This competition, held to celebrate Israel’s 76th birthday, saw young students sharing their love for Israel through poetry.

As the competition winner, Brodie was honoured with a special certificate and a prize from JNF UK and won a voucher for her school. All the other participants received a special certificate of achievement for their entries.

Jewish Community Conference Coming to Manchester

The Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) and Jewish Volunteering Network (JVN) will be bringing the annual Jewish Community Trustee's Conference to Manchester on 19th September. The event will take place from 6pm to 9pm and tickets cost £30.

The conference is an opportunity for Trustees of all communal organisations, small, medium and large, to come together and learn from experts and their fellow peers. While the conference is aimed at Chairs, Trustees, aspiring Trustees, CEOs, school governors, and shul boards, the JLC and JVN encourage anyone interested in being more involved in communal life or those who want to find out more about the role of a trustee to attend.

Nicky Golf Tournament Prizes

The Nicky has announced further prizes for its upcoming golf tournament. The tournament will be taking place on 11th September to raise funds for the Nicky. The tournament will take place at Whitefield Golf Club and will start at 11am. Entry cost is £100 per person and the tournament will be played in teams of four.

The star prize of the tournament will be a Four-Ball at Royal Lytham & St Anne’s Golf Club, while the runner up will receive an overnight stay at The Belfrey. There will also be prizes awarded for a range of on-course challenges, includes “Nearest to the Pin”, “Beat the Pro”, and “Long Drive”.

Those who are there to spectate will still have a chance to win, as there will be a raffle on the day to win a night at the Leven Hotel, a bottle of Hibiki Harmony Japanese whisky, and a golf day at Heaton Park.

CST Report Released

Community Security Trust (CST), a charity that protects British Jews from antisemitism and related threats, recently released its report documenting antisemitic incidents from January to June 2024, underlining the current need for vigilance.

Leeds Pays a Visit

Members of The Nicky hosted 14 members of the Leeds Jewish community who crossed the Pennines for lunch and an afternoon of entertainment.

The visit was organised by The Nicky’s Centre Manager, Karen Grant, in conjunction with LJWB. Community Support Worker, Michael Huxley, said: “Our reciprocal visits were always popular, and our group always looked forward to visiting our friends at The Nicky in Manchester. Sadly, COVID stopped these regular exchanges, so we are now delighted that we have reinstated them. It’s a wonderful opportunity for our service users who thoroughly enjoy the trip.”

The Nicky’s Chief Executive, David Delew, said: “It’s a great opportunity for our members to welcome and chat with our friends from Leeds, and we look forward to a return visit in the near future.”

CST recorded 1,978 antisemitic incidents across the UK in the first half of 2024, the highest total ever reported in the first six months of any year. This is an increase of 105% from the 964 antisemitic incidents recorded in the same period of 2023.

The report stated: “While the quantity of recorded antisemitic incidents in the first six months of 2024 is lower than the instant spike in the aftermath of October 7th, the sixmonthly figure of 1,978 incidents is unprecedented.”

CST has also reported a significant increase in damage and desecration of Jewish property, with 83 incidents reported, a 246% rise from last year.

Israel Rally Planned for October

North West Friends of Israel, with support from the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester & Region, is planning a march and rally in support of Israel on 6th October from 11am to 1pm. The march, entitled Manchester Stands with Israel, will take place in the city centre.

The organisation said: “We are calling on the Jewish community of Manchester and the North West, together with our dear non Jewish friends and supporters, to gather together to march through – and rally in – Manchester city centre to show our loud and proud support for Israel and the IDF, to call for the release of all the hostages immediately, to remember and mourn the thousands of people brutally murdered on October 7th and to say loudly –Never Again Is Now.”

Whitefield House Residential Care Home promises to add a touch of luxury to your loved ones’ experience through its top-quality facilities and engaging community activities. Whitefield House is set within a beautiful Victorian building, and its interior boasts a tasteful blend of modern and traditional décor with plenty of large windows flooding the home with natural light.

Communal areas include spacious lounges to socialise, quiet areas to read or rest, elegant dining rooms, enclosed gardens and patios, and even an in-house hair and nail salon. The layout compliments Whitefield House’s person-centred approach to care, giving residents control over how and where they spend their time and live their day-to-day lives.

A social home, Whitefield House has 40

A Second Family

Tastefully furnished to promote a relaxing and caring environment, residents will feel like part of a big family at Whitefield House.

bedrooms which are single en-suites, with many having garden views, and some with direct garden access. Residents are encouraged to bring items of furniture that make them feel more at home to ensure a sense of wellbeing that their room is their own.

A menu is created for residents to enjoy using fresh produce and is tailored to specific dietary and nutritional needs. Upon request, family members and friends are welcome to dine with the residents to help them feel more at home.

In-house activities provided at the home include flower arranging, games, guest theatre and music productions, and exercise classes to aid mobility. Whitefield House always finds an excuse to celebrate by dressing the home in decorations and creating themed menus, whether it’s for a birthday or festive occasion.

In addition to full-time residency,

Whitefield House

Whitefield House also offers day-care and respite care, which enables a full-time carer to take a break, helping to gradually ease loved ones into a residential home environment.

Whitefieldhouse.co.uk

Home Sweet Home

Home Instead has been offering tailored services for specialised home care for over a decade, supporting those being cared for and their loved ones across Greater Manchester.

Home Instead is an award-winning home care provider that recruits the most empathetic, enthusiastic, and experienced care professionals who are devoted to providing the highest-quality relationship-led care for older people in their own homes. Experienced with everything from dementia and cancer care, to at home companionship and overnight care, the care professionals will be there every step of the way, no matter what your loved one’s journey may entail.

During certain times of the year, many people gather with family and friends to reflect on their lives. A recent survey of older individuals by Home Instead has revealed that outdated stereotypes of older people are no longer accurate. Here are some key insights from the report: Attitudes towards ageing

• 80% of respondents prefer to be treated at home if they become ill.

• 70% of people aged over 75 worry about their ability to care for themselves.

• 89% of the UK’s oldest population supports an active lifestyle.

Independence is a priority

• 44% are more concerned about ending up in a care home than about the death of a partner (36%), which increases with age: 60% for those aged 66 to 74, and 58% for those aged 75 and older.

• 80% prefer home treatment if they become ill, rising to 86% among those aged 66 to 74 and 91% among those 75 and older.

• 54% believe their home is under-utilised as a base for treatment.

Fears of ageing

The top concerns for older people are Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia, and cancer.

Exclusion of older people

• 77% believe tech companies could benefit more from catering to older customers. The oldest respondents are receptive to innovations that assist with mobility and combat loneliness: Alexa (50%), robots (40%), AI (36%), and VR (35%).

• Digital solutions also appeal to carers, with 65% believing AI could help.

• 53% feel that older people are culturally excluded. This exclusion spans various areas: Fashion products (60%), high street brands (59%), music (66%), and film and television (57%).

There is a clear sentiment that more could be done to address the needs of older people. Home Instead recognises the challenges of ageing and the importance of maintaining independence. Its relationship-led care approach aims to address these challenges effectively. The team builds close relationships with their clients and their families, ensuring that the care professionals are familiar faces rather than strangers. Home Instead believes in providing support and comfort through trusted, personal connections – even if it’s just a hug.

Having Home Instead providing care for just a few hours a week can take away a lot of worries for families with the knowledge that they have professional help at hand, keeping loved ones safe in their own home. Making plans in advance can save lots of stress and time, and having a local care provider you know can give you and your loved one re-assurance to stay safe at home.

Homeinstead.co.uk

NEWS THAT’S STILL NEW

Rabbi Greg Bank of Yeshurun Cheadle & Gatley Synagogue

A LOVE OF ISRAEL

UJIA Shaliach, Sahar Sazgar discusses a key aspect of his Shlichut, fostering a love of Israel in the next generation.

“For the Lord your G-d is bringing you to a good land, a land with brooks of water, fountains and depths, that emerge in valleys and mountains”

(Devarim 7:7)

As a Shaliach that spends most of his time with the young generation of the Jewish community, my primar y responsibility is to educate. The real challenge of my Shlichut is the understanding that my role is not just to educate towards a cer tain formal behaviour, but also to enhance and promote a par ticular feeling – ‘ahavat ha’aretz’, love of countr y.

shaped my growing up process.

On the other hand, Jacob, their father mourned. For him, time froze. For twenty-two years he opened the same front page. He refused to accept the reality that Joseph was no longer. He lived the pain of his

He was right. Joseph was alive in Egypt. He had reason to deny the news the brothers tried to sell him. It suited their agenda but not his.

During trips throughout Israel, getting to know ever y mountain and ever y road, books and stories and traditions, have always been an integral par t of my life. The understanding that Israel is my home always motivated me to enhance my knowledge of the unique countr y that formed my identity. As the understanding and knowledge advances, a strong connection follows.

speedily from their spotlight that they can never truly be defined as new. New becomes old faster than fresh milk in the fridge can soar. There is truly nothing new under the sun.

Perhaps it's a coping mechanism. Our brains need to process information, accept facts and regulate them so that life can continue at a good pace. If we still mourned Elizabeth, then Charles could not have the necessary space to reign.

But how does one educate those feelings and more specifically, a love of Israel? As a young Israeli, a ‘chanich’ in a youth movement and a high school student who was extremely motivated before and during his army ser vice, ‘ahavat ha’aretz’ had been an instrument al value that

Joseph's brothers adopted this as tactic to escape their actions. They left his sale as a forgotten hole of their past. Conveniently, the newspaper headlines of Joseph's captivity quickly became yesterday's front page and yesterday's front page sells for far less than today's.

Don't misunderstand Jacob. He was not a personality that failed to move with the times. He knew very well how to adapt and change. His life was filled with travels and new adventures. He opened a new front page when he ran away from Eisav and then again when he left Lavan. When it came to Joseph, however, he knew not to turn the page.

Still, the challenge remains: how does one educate young people who don’t live in Israel to love Israel and have these passionate feelings towards the Jewish state? Some argue that unconditional love is achieved once you also accept the occasional negativities.

I have the privilege to educate the younger Jewish generation to love Israel. I do so by explaining the facts. The fact that Israel is not a per fect countr y, it’s young and still growing and learning. At the same time, the Jewish state has accomplished so many achievements over that last 71 years, a fact that shouldn’t be t aken for granted.

The people of Israel, beyond just land, make the countr y so special. From the aliyah stories of the Ethiopian Jews through the Sudanese deser t, to the food and suppor t provided to our soldiers during the Tzuk Eit an militar y operation. Israel is a countr y with good and warm people that despite having many dif ferent opinions and occasional rows, have one thing in common: to make Israel a better place. One can compare the vast disagreements to a typical Shabbos meal; seven people with eight dif ferent opinions. That’s what makes our people and countr y so beautiful and a home to so many people from dif ferent backgrounds.

It would be all to convenient for the world to reduce the newspaper front pages of October 7th to mere fish and chip wrappers. For us that date is not a stale piece of news. It is still a reality. It remains a reality until the evil of Hamas is destroyed, until every resident of the North can return home and sleep safely at night and until every hostage (whether they are a live or not) is brought back home.

We, like our forefather Jacob, will wait in the reality of last year because we know there is what to wait for. We too are waiting for our Josephs to come back home from captivity.

We can definitely tr y to teach the facts around our countr y which, in my view, will advance ‘ahavat ha’aretz’.

Yesterday's news is still news for us.

Yeshurun.org.uk

I wish all the Manchester Jewish community a great and prosperous year. I am extremely happy and grateful for the privilege to be par t of this wonder ful community. I look for ward to star ting a New Year with more education and meaningful moments with the young generation about the thing I am most passionate about: Israel.