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A REAL HEROINE

BRITISH-BORN SOLDIER PREVENTS ATTACK

Leanne Haroche

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BY DAVID SAFFER British-born IDF soldier Corporal Leanne Haroche has been hailed a national “heroine” after fighting off a terrorist in a stabbing attack in the Judea and Samaria region of Israel.

The 22-year-old from Borehamwood, whose parents are Israeli, was in Ariel when Atallah Ryan, 17,

of Qarawat Bani Hassan, carried out a potential deadly attack, targeting two Home Command soldiers. According to witnesses, Ryan attacked Haroche who evaded his knife on a number of occasions before striking him with her weapon.

Ryan attempted to also stab a commander nearby, who fatally shot him.

Politicians and responders said that but for Haroche’s actions the incident could have been deadly.

Diaspora Affairs Minister Omer Yankelevitch tweeted that Haroche was a national “heroine”, adding she demonstrated the “intensity of Diaspora Jews” connections with the State of Israel.

Ariel Mayor, Eliyahu Shaviro, visited the site and acclaimed Haroche and commander for their “resourcefulness and quick response”.

“It led to the result of a

neutralised terrorist with no casualties among our forces,” he added.

“You are heroes,” said Yossi Dagan, Samaria Regional Council head. “Thanks to you a much bigger attack was avoided.”

Ephraim Brigade Commander Col. Yiftach Norkin attended the scene to investigate.

“A combat soldier blocked the assailant’s multiple stabbing attacks, and the commander of the troops who was at the scene fired towards the assailant and neutralised him,” an IDF statement said.

Following the attack, IDF forces set up checkpoints near Salfit close to Ryan’s village. A manhunt for accomplices took place.

“Miraculously, other than the attacker, there were no injuries,” Hatzalah paramedic Chaim Kreif reportedly said after the incident.

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Please daven for Rabbi Dr AJ Twerski, Talmid Chacham, author and psychiatrist who is seriously ill with Covid-19.

Daven for Avrohom Yehoshua Heshel ben Devorah Leah.

Haroche, who made Aliyah in 2019 and joined the army last March, phoned her parents after the attack to let them know she was unharmed.

The incident came two weeks after a two knife attacks on soldiers near Jerusalem and Hebron.

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AAD call for “action not words” after FA anti-Semitism decision Action Against Anti-Semitism has welcomed the news that The Football Association has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of anti-Semitism.

But the campaigners against racism in football and in particular anti-Semitism has called for “action not words”. AAD chairman Jonathon Metliss, commented, “It’s welcome news but it’s essential to see real action not mere words.”

The FA has joined a number of clubs and organisations across English football in adopting the definition ensuring a consistent view across the game about conduct or comments that may be deemed anti-Semitic.

Mark Bullingham, The FA’s Chief Executive Officer, noted, “Adopting this working definition is an important step and it will provide clarity across football on what language or actions may be considered anti-Semitic. We will continue to work closely with the relevant authorities and everyone within football to reaffirm the message that anti-Semitic behaviour is completely unacceptable.”

Lord Mann, the Government’s independent adviser on anti-Semitism, added, “This is an opportunity to strengthen anti-racist work across all levels of the game. I am proud that the FA has been one of the world leaders in adopting the IHRA definition.”

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Kisch updates CFI on Covid progress

Yoav Kisch

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

BY DAVID SAFFER Conservative Friends of Israel hosted a virtual briefing with Israel’s Deputy Health Minister, Yoav Kisch, to discuss the country’s world-leading vaccination programme.

Senior Conservative parliamentarians asked a range of questions at the event attended by The Lord Pickles and CFI Honorary President Lord Polak.

The event was chaired by CFI Parliamentary chairman (Commons), Stephen Crabb MP. Since Israel’s vaccination drive last December 2020, over 2.7 million Israelis have received a first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine out of a population of 9 million, the highest rate in the world.

Minister Kisch praised the UK’s vaccination programme and how both countries were among those leading the world. He explained Israel’s vaccine strategy and detailed what the Israeli government had learned during the pandemic.

Israel is vaccinating people to “reduce morbidity and mortality”.

The UK government’s chief scientific advisor, Sir Patrick Valance, and chief medical officer, Sir Chris Witty, held meetings with the ministry of health to discuss the UK and Israel’s responses to Covid-19.

A tweet from Sir Patrick noted a “very helpful discussion” to share information

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and lessons on the science behind vaccination programmes.

Israel’s Ambassador to the UK, Tzipi Hotovely, responded, “This is just the latest example of our strong cooperation, which will help us to beat this pandemic together”.

In other CFI news, Prime Minister Boris Johnson underlined the importance of combating anti-Semitism ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day whilst in the House of Lords, cross-party peers condemned anti-Semitism on university campuses following the publication of a report by the Community Security Trust last month.

Lord Polak paid tribute to CST’s work and underlined Jewish students throughout the country need support. Lord Pickles raised concerns that the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism had been “maliciously represented” as a constraint on either academic freedom or free speech”. It “speaks volumes” if academics cannot criticise Israel without using anti-Semitic tropes, he noted.

Lord Grade of Yarmouth said criticism of Israel on campuses neglects the context of existential threats Israel faces. Lord Leigh of Hurley noted Jewish students’ mental health was an issue.

Elsewhere, numerous Conservative parliamentarians have raised concern over Iran’s breaches of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Nuclear Deal.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab condemned Iran’s “serial non-compliance” whilst Lord Polak called on the government to “take the earliest opportunity” with the Biden administration to discuss Iran’s breaches.

Conservative MPs also called on Twitter to review the account of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei over ongoing anti-Semitic comments.

In an exchange with Nick Pickles, Twitter’s Global Head of Public Policy Strategy and Development, Tim Loughton MP quoted Khamenei’s tweet describing Israel as a “malignant cancerous tumour”.

Pickles said he would review the tweet.

Twitter suspended one of the Ayatollah’s accounts last Friday but a main account remains.

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Leifer extradited after six year battle

Malka Leifer

BY LEAH WAXLER Israeli authorities have extradited alleged child sex abuser Malka Leifer to Australia.

The former Israeli-born teacher was accompanied by Australian law enforcement officials from Ben Gurion Airport bound for Frankfurt on route to Australia.

Leifer maintains her innocence but faces 74 charges against former pupils at a Jewish school in Melbourne. She has been fighting extradition from Israel since 2014.

The six-year legal battle strained relations with Australia. Israeli leaders and Australian officials criticised the length of time the court case took. Justice now has a chance to prevail.

Israel’s Supreme Court rejected an extradition appeal in December.

Justice Minister Avi Nissenkorn praised the court’s decision at the time. “After long and tormenting years, the time has come to do justice with Leifer’s victims,” he wrote on Twitter.

Jerusalem’s District Court approved Leifer’s extradition after 71 court hearings.

Leifer’s lawyer, Nick Kaufman, confirmed the extradition. “Preliminary hearings will be held in the coming days,” he reportedly said. Leifer does not have to be present by Australian law for this stage. “She will be held in a women’s detention facility in Melbourne where I hope her rights and halachic requirements will be respected,” Kaufman noted.

Manny Waks, Voice against Child Sex Abuse, represents Leifer’s victims and hailed an “incredible day for justice!” in a statement. “We can now truly look forward to Leifer facing justice in Australia on the 74 charges she is facing,” he said.

Magen Association for the Protection of Children added, “We stand by the victims and encourage them ahead of the next fight within the Australian justice system. We will fight with all our might so that Israel ceases to be a refuge for sex offenders and that a

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“We stand by the victims and encourage them ahead of the next fight within the Australian justice system.” similar extradition saga will not be repeated.”

Leifer’s alleged victims, sisters Dassi Erlich, Nicole Meyer and Elly Sapper, contend Leifer abused them when they were students at an ultra-Orthodox Jewish school in Melbourne in 2008.

They bitterly complained about the time taken to reach this decision.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison met Erlich and Meyer at Parliament House in October 2019 and vowed to raise the case with Israel’s government to expediate a resolution.

The Tzohar Center for Jewish Ethics and Tzohar Rabbinical Organisation backed the sisters’ case.

Leifer challenged the court before being ruled “mentally fit” to stand trial.

When charges first materialised in 2008, Leifer, who holds Israeli and Australian dual citizenship, fled to Israel. An arrest warrant was issued in 2012. After Australia filed extradition papers, Leifer was put under house arrest in 2014.

A district psychiatrist ruled Leifer was not fit to stand trial two years later. Private investigators proved otherwise within 12 months.

This was ratified and the extradition process continued.

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Chief condemns simcha at orthodox school

BY DAVID SAFFER Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis has condemned a wedding attended by 150 guests that took place on the premises of Yesodey Hatorah Senior Girls’ School in Stamford Hill last week.

The shocking incident made national television news and came just a few days after the orthodox school was named in local media as a Covid testing site in Hackney on a Sunday.

Under latest Covid lockdown measures, weddings are banned unless there are exceptional circumstances. Organisers of the Simcha, which police broke up last Thursday evening, face a £10,000 fine, five other people were handed £200 fines.

Police are investigating the breach in Covid regulations.

The hall was leased out. Windows were covered up when officers arrived. Guests fled the scene.

“This is a most shameful desecration of all that we hold dear,” tweeted Chief Rabbi Mirvis. “At a time when we are all making such great sacrifices, it amounts to a brazen abrogation of the responsibility to protect life & such illegal behaviour is abhorred by the overwhelming majority of the Jewish community.”

A school spokesman said they had “no knowledge” the celebration was taking place in a statement. “We are absolutely horrified about last night’s event and condemn it in the strongest possible terms,” they said.

The school has since terminated an agreement with an external organisation that manages lettings.

“We are investigating how this shocking breach has happened and have no plans to re-lease the premises to any third party,” a spokesman noted. “We deplore the actions of anyone in any community breaking the law and risking people’s lives in this way.”

Rabbi Avrohom Pinter, the school’s renowned former head, died after contracting the deadly virus last April. A leading light of Chareidi community, Rabbi Pinter, 70, was the first Rabbi to be elected as a councillor to Hackney Council which won a gold award at the Public Service Communications 2020 Awards just two months ago.

Mayor of Hackney, Philip Glanville, dedicated the excellence accolade to the memory of Rabbi Pinter.

The late Rabbi, he said on November 26th, worked “tirelessly” at the start of the crisis to provide “clear trusted information, delivering humanitarian support and saving lives”.

Mayor Glanville was “deeply disappointed” at the incident last week. Hackney has a Covid-19 infection rate of 625.43 cases

Yesodey Hatorah Senior Girls’ School

“At a time when we are all making such great sacrifices, it amounts to a brazen abrogation of the responsibility to protect life & such illegal behaviour is abhorred by the overwhelming majority of the Jewish community.” per 100,000 people, the average in England is 471.31.

He noted, “We support the police in taking such rapid and firm action. We had already written to venues including this school reminding them of the regulations and are shocked that they are continuing to breach them. Whilst we appreciate the central role that weddings play in the life of all our communities, the current regulations are there to protect everyone.

“We will be meeting with the Rabbinate and our community partners over the coming days to see how we can prevent further incidents of this nature.”

783 members of the Jewish community to date have died from Covid since the onset of the pandemic.

Marie van der Zyl, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, was “horrified” by the large wedding party.

She said, “We unreservedly condemn this flagrant and disgraceful breach of Covid-19 regulations, which goes against Jewish teaching that preserving life is of

the highest value. The reckless and dangerous behaviour of those behind this event does not represent the attitude of the vast majority of British Jews, including from within the Strictly Orthodox community, who are fully aware of the terrible toll of this pandemic.”

“We urge all members of the Jewish community, most of whom have faithfully kept to the Government’s advice on this matter, to continue to do so,” Ms van de Zyl added.

“These rulebreakers do not represent us.

We commend instead the thousands of members of our community who work for the NHS and have been giving their all for the good of this country.”

An official spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson backed police taking action against people “flagrantly and selfishly” ignoring rules. “Large gatherings such as that pose a health risk, not just to those who attend but those who they live with or others who they may come into contact with,” they said.

Home Secretary Priti Patel, speaking last

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Friday, added, “This is deeply insulting to the vast majority of people doing the right thing by staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives. The Metropolitan Police acted quickly to take robust action against this unacceptable breach which has put the health of all of us at risk.”

Det Ch Sup Marcus Barnett of the Met Police said, “This was a completely unacceptable breach of the law, which is very clearly in place to save lives and protect the NHS, an NHS that is under considerable pressure at a time when Covid-19 has killed nearly 100,000 people.

“This is a deadly and very dangerous disease. We can all see that and we must act responsibly.

“People across the country are making sacrifices by cancelling or postponing weddings and other celebrations and there is no excuse for this type of behaviour. My officers are working tirelessly with the community and we will not hesitate to take enforcement action if that is required to keep people safe.

“Given the seriousness of this breach and the number of people who were in attendance, I have asked my local officers to conduct a post-incident investigation.

This wedding broke the law and put lives in danger and I am determined to take action to identify all those responsible for organising the event and ensure they are held to account.”

Initial reports of 400 guests was later amended.

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WJC welcomes Laschet as CDU leader World Jewish Congress has welcomed North Rhine-Westphalian Prime Minister Armin Laschet on his election as party leader of the CDU in Germany.

WJC President Ronald S. Lauder has met Prime Minister Laschet on a number of occasions, most recently after the fatal synagogue attack in Halle on Yom Kippur in 2019.

“Prime Minister Laschet made it unmistakably and consistently clear that the German state allows zero tolerance towards anti-Semitism and right-wing extremism,” Lauder said. “(He) has a deep understanding of the importance of German and European democracy, as well as of the need to revitalise the transatlantic partnership. He knows and understands the situation in the USA in particular and, as a trustworthy and reliable interlocutor, can also have a positive influence on international relations.”

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ZAKA co-founder’s triple tragedy

BY SIMCHA ABIR ZAKA chairman and co-founder Yehuda Meshi Zahav has lost both his parents to COVID-19 in the past week.

Whilst sitting shiva for his mother, Sara Zeisel, 81, Yehuda’s father, Menachem Mendel, 84, collapsed and died at the weekend. His brother, Moshe, 59, passed away after battling illness two days after his mother was hospitalised last month.

“Death has knocked on our door, landing stroke after stroke on us. All within 30 days. Our pain is as large as the ocean, who shall heal us?” ZAKA chairman Zahav wrote on Facebook.

In interviews with the media, he reportedly said, “I live the grief and the agony (through ZAKA), I’ve heard of so many stories, but it wasn’t enough probably.

Like showing a painting of a beautiful landscape to a blind person, he wouldn’t understand what you’re talking about.”

Leaning on his faith, Yehuda added, “I guess the L-rd wanted me to feel more, on my own flesh, so next time I’m sat in front of a bereaved family, I’ll understand the pain and the heartache they’re talking about.”

Yehuda described the past month as a “never-ending tunnel” that becomes longer. He also acknowledged his parents contracted Covid at a Chanukah event in defiance of health regulations.

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Yehuda Meshi Zahav

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He reportedly noted, “It’s clear as daylight that she has died of Covid. We guarded our parents all year long. My brother lived with them and did not let anyone go near them. But he went abroad on Chanukah and they held a party in which everyone contracted the virus. My mother, who was such a vital, healthy, active and charitable woman contracted the virus and her

Army radio may be shut down

BY SIMCHA ABIR

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Israel Defence Forces world-renowned Army Radio station is in danger of being shutting down.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz has backed a recommendation from IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Aviv Kochavi to move it from its official standing.

Army Radio first broadcast in 1950. One of Israel’s most notable radio stations, it heralded many journalist careers. It has appealed to be protected as an asset to Israeli culture and society.

“Army Radio is home for soldiers, home for Israeli creation, culture and art, a home for countless excellent journalists,” they noted in a statement. “Army Radio is home for Israeli democracy and a protected flower that must be guarded in its entirety.”

The decision is a “matter of values and not of budget” according to Gantz. “Free media in Israel is extremely important and I will continue to defend it and ensure its

independence, but the existence of a military station in the IDF is unreasonable at this time,” Gantz reportedly said. “I have decided that uniformed soldiers will not engage in politics in any position. This is unacceptable and contradicts the IDF’s values, the (station’s) obligatory integrity and its proper conduct. I appreciate the station and its contribution to Israeli media, and to the variety of opinions and voices in the media. It would be right to find another channel for its continued activity.”

Defence Ministry Director-General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Eshel will head a team to privatise or shut down the station.

The next Defence Minister should ratified a decision after March elections but Kochavi wants the station’s affiliation removed as it is “borderline immoral”.

Kochavi’s predecessor, Gadi Eisenkot, attempted to end the station as Chief of Staff but Defence Minister at the time Avigdor Liberman quashed the move.

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lungs slowly collapsed.”

Yehuda added. “Doctors said that his passing was most likely the result of COVID exacerbating other conditions.”

Jerusalem Affairs Minister Rafi Peretz said the family tragedy demonstrated the importance of following guidelines.

Education Minister Yoav Gallant added, “Protect yourselves and your close ones.

Maintain all guidelines without exceptions it’s an issue of saving human lives.”

After his mother’s death, Yehuda criticised orthodox leaders for downplaying the pandemic.

He reportedly said, “This is our leaders’ fault. I say this with (a) heavy heart.”

Yehuda added there was not a single neighbourhood, building or home without at least one (Covid) victim.

He explained, “Forty-four people have died in the last 24 hours, 44 families whose entire worlds fell apart, 44 families for whom nothing will ever be the same again, and we played it down. Can’t they see? Each one of us is literally a ticking time bomb.”

Yehuda added the pandemic had struck Charedi communities disproportionately.

He noted, “Everything that is going on in our communities is unbelievable. They should take care of themselves the most.

With any other health problem, we are quick to go see the best doctors, so what has happened here?”

Wizz Air route to Tel Aviv

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is to fly from Abu Dhabi to Tel Aviv from the 12th February, tickets are available online.

József Váradi, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi’s chairman, said the launch recognised Abu Dhabi as a new frontier for ultra-low fare travel in the region. The airline recently confirmed Athens as its inaugural destination. Further destinations will be launched over the coming months.

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Israel holds talks with Biden administration

BY DAVID SAFFER

strategy for Iran. He is expected to also brief senior US defence officials including CIA chief David Cohen.

Bicom noted Cohen will outline Israeli demands with Iran including stopping uranium enrichment, preventing terror groups in the region, especially Hezbollah, and ending Iran’s activity against Israeli targets worldwide. Full access to inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency to Iranian nuclear sites would be required.

It has also been reported that Netanyahu will speak with Biden about the JCPOA and if he is open to an improved nuclear agreement whilst keeping sanctions.

Following Biden’s inauguration, Israel’s political figures congratulated his success.

Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, has begun his post and welcomed Biden’s return to the Paris Climate Agreement.

“C limate change is one of the biggest US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan

Israel has held its first official communication with US President Joe Biden’s administration.

National Security Council adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat has congratulated US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on taking up office.

Topics for future discussions will include Iran, regional issues and advancing the Abraham Accords.

“They discussed opportunities to enhance the partnership over the coming months, including by building on the success of Israel’s normalisation arrangements with UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco,” a statement reportedly noted.

Sullivan extended an invitation to begin a strategic dialogue in the near term, the statement added.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looked ahead to strengthening the alliance between Israel and the US under Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at his weekly cabinet meeting.

Israel’s leader anticipates expanding the ‘circle of peace’ between Israel and Arab world aside from shared challenges, particularly the “Iranian threat”.

Regarding Iran, according to media reports, Mossad head, Yossi Cohen, will meet next month present Israel’s HALFBiden PAGE ADVERT JAN to 2020:Layout 1 09/01/2020

challenges facing our planet and we must all fight this together,’ he noted on Twitter.

Netanyahu released a video, stating a warm personal friendship going back decades.

“I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the US-Israel alliance, to continue expanding peace between Israel and the Arab world and to confront common challenges, chief among them the threat posed by Iran,” he said.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz added, “There are so many challenges that face us all, containing Iranian regional aggression and nuclear aspirations, fighting terror groups and destabilising forces, expanding normalisation, and reaching a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I look forward to working with the Biden administration, and with my friends at the Pent a -

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PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

gon, in taking on these challenges together.”

New Hope chairman Gideon Sa’ar told Biden, “All through your career, you have championed the unbreakable bond between the US and Israel.”

A number of Biden’s Middle East advisor appointments have reportedly backed Israel previously. They include Brett McGurk and Barbara Leaf at the National Security Council, Julie Sawyer, White House, Dana Stroul, Pentagon, and Mira Resnick, US tate Department.

Donald Trump, meantime, has launched an official post-presidency office in Palm Beach County, Florida.

A statement from Trump’s office noted the ‘Office of the Former President’ will manage his “correspondence, public statements, appearances and official activities to advance the interests of the United States and to carry on the agenda of the Trump Administration through advocacy, organising, and public activism”.

Speculation has ranged from him starting a media company to running for a second term in 2024.

Trump’s 2020 campaign senior adviser Jason Miller quashed reports of Trump running as an independent, reportedly stating his focus was to aid the Republicans in the 2022 midterms for the US House and Senate.

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CJV slams Biden over ‘transgender’ order

President Joe Biden

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BY ADAM MOSES The Coalition for Jewish Values (CJV) has expressed serious concern regarding an executive order by US President Joe Biden allowing biological male students identifying as female to use girls changing rooms and competing on women’s sports teams.

CJV, which represents over 1500 rabbis, is the largest rabbinic public policy organisation in America advocating public policy positions based on traditional Jewish values.

Within Biden’s policy for federally funded schools, ‘Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation’, “children should be able to learn without worrying about whether they will be denied access to the restroom (toilets), the locker (changing) room, or school sports.”

Biden’s order also relates to work and healthcare, stating everyone should receive equal treatment under law, no matter gender identity or sexual orientation.

The rabbinic group has been rocked by the decision relating to children, and girls in particular, who might worry they cannot privately and safely use restrooms or locker rooms as they will have to undress in the presence of biological members of the opposite sex.

“It is a sad day indeed when the new administration, which entered office with the promise to unite, has commenced its activities by offending basic principles of privacy and decency, by endorsing the use of women’s changing rooms by biological males who claim to be females,” said Rabbi Avrohom Gordimer, CJV Rabbinic Circle

Cohen leads Israeli delegation to Sudan

BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel’s Minister of Intelligence Eli Cohen has led a delegation to Sudan for the first time.

Cohen on his return told reporters he was confident the visit will lay foundations for “important collaborations” including security and stability in the region.

The delegation included representatives from the National Security Council and met Defence Minister Yassin Ibrahim, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan along with other senior officials.

Discussions centred on economic cooperation on water, agriculture, renewable energy, health and aviation. Israel is hopeful a Sudanese delegation will soon visit Israel.

Sudan followed the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco in normalising relations with Israel. US President Joe Biden has stated it wants to build on these accords.

Israel, meantime, has approved its accord with Morocco. And they have opened an embassy in the UAE. The UAE has backed opening an embassy in Tel Aviv.

According to reports, Eitan Na’eh will remain in post in a temporary office until a permanent ambassador is selected. The

Eli Cohen

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Foreign Ministry added that Israel would open an embassy in Dubai. An embassy in

chairman. “This Executive Order threatens the safety of all Americans, especially women and girls.”

Biden’s order, to CJV, affects women-only sports teams, a key element of Title IX, the landmark federal law that guarantees equal opportunity for women.

CJV note it is unreasonable and unequal to grant women access to men’s teams due to inherent biological differences. The order will deny women leadership and scholarship opportunities.

CJV have criticised Biden’s administration that discriminates against women while denying the realities of human physiology. “‘Science’ that denies the reality that is in front of our eyes is not ‘science’ at all, but an agenda-driven effort masquerading behind an illogical pretence,” said Rabbi Ze’ev Smason, Midwestern Regional Vice President, CJV. “For millions of women and girls across the country, this regressive legislation violates their basic right to equal access. Accommodating the needs of a small minority should never infringe on the rights, liberties and sensitivities of the vast majority.”

Bahrain has been operating for a number of weeks.

Netanyahu welcomed opening its embassy in Abu Dhabi as a “historic moment” and praised King Mohammed VI. Talks are reportedly taking place for a visit, potentially before Ben-Gurion Airport reopens.

It is thought King Mohammed VI would also visit Ramallah and meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Defence Minister Benny Gantz congratulated King Mohammed VI for “bold leadership”.

Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi said, “The opening of the mission will enable the expansion of bilateral ties between Israel and the UAE, and the full and quick implementation of the potential inherent in our relations.”

Direct flights and trade delegations have taken place. Thousands of Israelis have visited the UAE. Israel’s government has unanimously backed ties with Morocco. The deal has yet to be ratified in the Knesset.

The agreement calls for the establishment of “full diplomatic, peaceful and friendly relations” in the common interest of both countries to advance peace in the region, improve regional security and unlock new opportunities. It also grants “authorisation for direct flights” between the countries.

Israel would open an office in Rabat headed Ambassador to Egypt David Govrin.

Morocco is renovating an office in Tel Aviv. Its opening has been delayed by the lockdown.

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Centre-right news channel gets a boost

Amit Segal

PHOTO: WIKIDATA

BY JAMES MARLOW The only pro-Netanyahu and Centre-Right News Channel in Israel, which has previously struggled to operate, due to financial concerns, this week won the tender to switch from Channel 20 where they currently broadcast, to Channel 14.

The Television and Radio Authority Regulator announced all TV providers in Israel, will now broadcast the network on Channel 14. This move is likely to give the Channel a much needed boost in their ratings, as it places them alongside Israel’s three main other News Channels.

Channel 11 is the public broadcaster known as Kan. But the two commercial channels - Channel 12 (owned by Keshet Media Group) and Channel 13 (owned by RGE Media Group) are extremely popular with mainstream audiences.

Kan, the public broadcaster, has traditionally taken a more centre to left political leaning, while Channels 12 and 13 are openly anti-Netanyahu news networks. Although Amit Segal of Channel 12 News, is one of Israel’s leading and most respected political commentators today, and often argues out the facts with his news colleagues on the network.

The team at the new Channel 14 News, believe that with audiences flipping the remote from one channel to another, they will receive a much greater exposure to new viewers and a boost to its advertising revenue.

Channel 20 won the tender over the Arabic-language Hala TV channel and Channel 24 Israeli music network, with a bid of NIS 5 million (£1.2 million).

Channel 20 began broadcasting in August 2014 as a station focusing on Jewish tradition from a conservative angle, but gradually switched its focus to right-wing and conservative news and commentary programmes.

It has sometimes been referred to as Israel’s Fox News for its more right wing leaning programming, but claims it is only offering a counterbalance to the “left-wing mainstream media.”

Israel’s television landscape has changed drastically in recent years and one would be forgiven for not knowing where to find which channel.

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28 JANUARY 2021

Staffordshire University adopts IHRA definition

BY DAVID SAFFER Staffordshire University has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism as part of its ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion The announcement comes ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day. University staff, students and the wider community reflected on the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and communities. Online resources and readings commemorated this year’s theme ‘Be the light in the darkness’.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Liz Barnes, noted, “We must remember the atrocities of the past and must also not forget that many people still face persecution and genocide today. It is only through taking action and speaking out that we can prevent it happening.”

The action by the university is the latest to support policies to tackle racism, discrimination, harassment and bullying.

The University’s Inclusion Champion Network and Staffs University Inclusion Group led the work.

Professor Barnes, backed the move as the IHRA definition outlines anti-Semitism as a certain perception of Jews that may be expressed as “hatred toward Jews”.

“We strive to provide a safe and inclusive environment for all members of our community,” she said. “Our decision to adopt the IHRA definition is a crucial step in combatting prejudice and makes clear that anti-Semitism will not be tolerated at our institution. We are committed to eliminating all forms of discrimination and will continue to promote a positive culture where staff, students and visitors are confident to be their authentic selves and are able to achieve their potential free from prejudice.”

To ensure freedom of speech the university has adopted the definition with caveats recommended by the Home Affairs Select Committee in 2016.

Freedom of speech for staff, students and visiting speakers is guaranteed by the university’s Code of Practice and is not affected by adoption of the IHRA definition.

Staffordshire follows numerous universities to adopt the definition including Birmingham, Lancaster, Cambridge, Manchester Metropolitan and Buckingham New University.

Any students concerned about anti-Semitism on campus should e-mail Campaign against Anti-Semitism at campus@antisemitism.org or telephone 0330 822 0321.

Staffordshire University

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

To ensure freedom of speech the university has adopted the definition with caveats recommended by the Home Affairs Select Committee in 2016.

In other CAA news, Taoiseach Micheál Martin addressed a virtual commemoration to mark HMD. Ireland’s last Holocaust survivors Tomi Reichental and Suzi Diamond addressed the event.

Mr Martin said, “Education is an important tool in deepening our understanding of the Holocaust. Ireland is committed to fighting antisemitism and racism.”

He added, “Last year’s ceremony marked the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and as we move further away from the horrors of the Holocaust, the value of being able to share the personal experience of Tomi and Susie is incalculable.”

One of the largest Holocaust memorial

centres in the world is to be built in the Ukraine.

Plans for the Babi Yar Holocaust Memorial Centre in Kiev were unveiled last week.

The site includes educational, multi-media centre and spiritual centres containing a synagogue, church and mosque.

The name Babi Yar was chosen because of the massacre of European Jews during World War Two in 1941. Over 33,000 Jews were taken from Kiev to the Babi Yar ravine and shot. The site saw 100,000 Jews and non-Jews murdered.

It is hoped the synagogue and exhibition space will be completed for the 80th anniversary of the massacre in September.

Natan Sharansky, chair of the supervisory board, commented, “The concept which

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was presented is both very interesting and amazing. It demonstrates how the museum and educational centre will not only both be high quality, but at the same time different from many other Holocaust centres. As such, it will help fill a vacuum in the field of Holocaust studies.”

Romanian Foreign Minister, Bogdan Aurescu, has warned that online anti-Semitism and discrimination increased during the coronavirus pandemic.

The government is aiming to close one of the darkest chapters in Romanian history.

Speaking on the 80th anniversary of a Bucharest pogrom against Jews, Aurescu stated that the government will finalise a national strategy against rising antisemitism, radicalisation, xenophobia and hate speech.

According to Aurescu, strategies will prevent a recurrence of the pogrom during World War Two, which saw at least 120 Jews murdered, hundreds injured and 1,100 homes, shops and synagogues destroyed. This was not an isolated incident, a Pogrom of Iasi and deportation of Jews to the Transnistria region also took place.

28 JANUARY 2021

NEWS 11

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More than any other event over the past century it has brought home our mortality.

All of us have taken extra lifestyle precautions to mitigate our chances of catching the virus. Yet how many of us done something to mitigate the financial impact the virus on our families ? Heaven forbid, were you to die prematurely from the virus or any other illness, how would this impact your family? Whilst this article deals with life cover, you also ought to ask yourself what would be the impact on your family if you suffered a serious illness or couldn’t work for a period because of illness or injury.

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An average 20 or 30-something non-smoker can expect to pay from just £8 a month for a life policy providing £20000 p.a. of cover for 21 years. Put another way, an early claim could pay you out £420000 and all for just £8 per month ! You probably spend more on coffee every week !

Indeed business owners or employees have particularly tax efficient ways to take out life cover in that some plans can be expensed through the business saving the company corporation tax without the individuals covered having these benefits being treated as a benefit in kind for personal income tax.

Besides the current heightened risk of death from catching the virus, you ought to consider taking out life cover if any of the following apply to you:

grandparent. If you help out your aging parents, or plan to one day, a life insurance policy ensures they’re left with some money for long-term care or personal expenses if you can no longer provide for them.

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If you’re planning to have a baby in the next year or so, now is a great time to buy life insurance. For one thing, most people’s health declines with age. The longer you wait to buy a policy, the greater the eventual cost. Secondly, if you’re going from two incomes to one there’s even greater reason to set up a financial safety net before having kids.

2. YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED

If your soon-to-be spouse relies on your income to live the lifestyle you share, it’s a good idea to get life insurance. Whether they bring in their own earnings or not, having a life insurance policy in place assures they can maintain a similar standard of living if you die prematurely.

3. YOU FINANCIALLY SUPPORT AGING PARENTS

The general rule is that if someone else relies on your income to live, then you probably need life insurance. Most people think of protecting a spouse or children, but millions of people are acting as caregivers for a parent, in-law, or

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IDF strike Hamas targets

BY SIMCHA ABIR Israel Defence Forces stuck Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip last week.

A statement confirmed underground tunnels into Israel were targeted after two rockets were fired from Beit Hanoun in the Gaza Strip at Ashdod.

There were no reports of injuries or damage during the operation.

Investigations continue, Israel holds Hamas responsible for attacks from Gaza.

“The IDF takes very seriously any terrorist activity against Israel and is ready to act as resolutely as necessary against attempts to harm Israeli citizens and their sovereignty,”

an IDF statement noted. “The terrorist organisation Hamas bears responsibility for what is happening in and out of the Gaza Strip, and it will bear the consequences for the terrorist acts against the citizens of Israel.”

Hamas blames Israel for not honouring truce obligations.

In related news, Israel’s Air Force reportedly attacked 18 military targets near the Syria-Iraq border according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Seven Syrian soldiers and 16 foreign fighters reportedly died in the attack at Deir ezZor and Abu Kamal. According to reports, the area is used by Iran to deliver weapons

to Hezbollah in Lebanon and pro-Iranian militias in Syria. Reports also noted that airstrikes were carried out with US intelligence.

The attack in Syria was a fourth in under two weeks according to reports.

Meantime, former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Iran was the new “home base” for al-Qaeda. Pompeo, in his final days at the State Department before Joe Biden’s inauguration, called on America and free nations to “crush” the Iran-al-Qaeda axis. “Since 2015, Tehran has allowed al-Qaeda figures in the country to freely communicate with other al-Qaeda members and perform many functions that were previously directed from Afghanistan and Pakistan, including authorisation for attacks, propaganda, and fundraising,” he reportedly said.

It is believed that Mossad Chief Yossi Cohen met Pompeo last week.

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According to Bicom, recent airstrikes in Syria came with the IDF at a state of alert over a possible revenge attack by Iran for the death of nuclear programme head Prof. Mohsen Fakhrizadeh last November.

Israel is concerned about the rise in US-Iranian tensions since Biden’s election success.

Pompeo’s speech was part of Trump’s last efforts against Tehran before handing over to Biden. Reports have noted that Netanyahu is concerned Biden’s administration will re-enter the JCPOA nuclear agreement.

US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman told the Knesset on Monday that Israel should not confront Biden over Iran, but start a dialogue.

Bicom added that Israel is preparing for Iranian-led attacks through Syria, Iraq, Yemen or Lebanon.

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Gedolim condemn extremist rioters

BY DAVID SAFFER World renowned Gedolim, rabbanim and politicians have condemned extremists clashing with police in a number of Chareidi communities in recent days.

Shocking incidents have taken place across the country including in Bnei Brak, the Mea She’arim neighborhood of Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh and Ashdod.

Anti-Semitic graffiti “Kobi Shabtai Hitler.

2021” referring to Israel’s Police Commissioner Yaakov Shabtai was daubed on a wall in Zikhron Moshe, Jerusalem yesterday as mistrust continues.

Rioters have reportedly hurled verbal abuse including shouts of “Nazis” and “Hitler” at police officers attempting to enforce lockdown restrictions as schools continue to violate government measures. Large numbers of guests attend wedding celebrations and synagogues.

Disturbing scenes have seen extremists block roads in Bnei Brak where a bus driver escaped injury prior to his vehicle being set ablaze. In Mea She’arim and Beit Shemesh, rioters threw stones at passing vehicles, and elsewhere in Jerusalem, demonstrators attacked firefighters.

A police statement summed up growing concerns in Bnei Brak. “Policemen felt their lives were in danger and therefore one of the policemen fired in the air,” a spokesman said.

Police are investigating incidents. A number of officers have suffered injuries, dozens of rioters have been arrested.

Hagaon HaRav Chaim Kanievsky and Hagaon HaRav Gershon Edelstein, released a statement, noting, “No one should approach places of violence. The very act of seeing such behaviour damages the soul.”

They added, “There should be mercy from Heaven that those who err gain wisdom and walk in the path of Torah.”

HaGaon HaRav Shalom Cohen stated in a letter that being present was a terrible Chillul Hashem (desecration of G-d’s name). He added, “Apart from the great Chillul Hashem caused by this, it poses a terrible spiritual danger to our youth that threatens to destroy all the foundations of the education of our children for which we have toiled and sacrificed.”

Sephardi Chief Rabbi of Israel, HaGaon HaRav Yitzchak Yosef noted his “great pain and shock” at appalling violence by youths who had strayed from the Torah. “There is no justification for such terrible actions, those who are acting in the ‘name of the Torah’ are mechallel Sheim Shamayim b’rabim (desecrating G-d’s name in public),” he said. “In Masechet Yoma, it’s explained that the sin of Chillul Hashem is the worst

HaRav Gershon Edelstein

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

HaRav Chaim Kanievsky

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

“No one should approach places of violence. The very act of seeing such behaviour damages the soul.”

A burning bus in Bnei Brak

PHOTO: MDA VIDEO GRAB

possible sin. Therefore, those rioters must be condemned and shunned. Our way is the derech of the Torah (Torah lifestyle).”

Rabbi Yossef added that participants must be “disavowed” by society but called on welfare services to take care and teach them manners. He also noted that participants were a minority.

“It is a sacred duty of the Mayors and the welfare authorities in the city of Bnei Brak to enlist in the immediate care of these

youths, who after all are part of our flesh,” he continued. “They are of course a minority that tarnishes the image of the entire ultra-Orthodox public, most of whom are far removed from such behaviour.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been criticised in some quarters for reacting slowly to incidents but has “strongly condemned” violence against Israeli police in Bnei Brak.

“I am strengthening the hands of

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enforcement officials who are working to maintain Health Ministry regulations that save lives,” he reportedly said.

Deputy Transportation Minister Uri Maklev, UTJ Party condemned arson as “pure delinquency.”

“We go to great pains to ensure the safety of our (bus) drivers and passengers,” he reportedly said on Monday. “Rioters who attacked the bus driver must all face the full force of the law. We understand the plight of the drivers and are in constant contact with them to create a safe atmosphere for them.”

Following the riots, the Ministry instructed bus companies to avoid entering certain areas.

Egged buses have experienced numerous incidents.

“We will not agree nor come to terms with this delusional and insane reality, in which a handful of thugs brutally wreck buses that serve the public in Jerusalem,” Egged spokesman Ron Ratner reportedly said. “Aside from the danger posed to the passengers and the drivers, dozens of Egged buses were heavily damaged. We call on police and the Transportation Ministry to assist public transport drivers and passengers and provide us with tools in the uncompromising fight against the terrorism running amok in the public space.”

Egged drivers told media outlets they were scared to enter neighbourhoods where demonstrations were taking place.

Bnei Brak Mayor Avraham Rubinstein was attacked by rioters and called for youths to be publicly shamed and turned in to the police.

“In no way, will we accept as reality that a group of extremists will riot in the city and sow destruction and anarchy,” he reportedly stated on Monday.

After discussions with police, Rubenstein called for targeted enforcement to maintain order in the city. CCTV footage will identify rioters to restore “normal life” in the city.

He added that documented footage would be publicised in accordance with law.

Former Bnei Brak Mayor, Yaakov Asher, United Torah Judaism MK, condemned marginal groups tarnishing citizens as the majority were law-abiding.

UTJ MK, Moshe Gafni, told a Bnei Brak municipality emergency meeting he had received a message from Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky of the Lithuanian Orthodox community.

“He told me to say on his behalf that these demonstrations should stop and he also urged the police to stop the terrible things that they are doing to the residents of Bnei Brak,” noted Gafni.

28 JANUARY 2021

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Israel considers lockdown extension

BY DAVID SAFFER

Gantz’s office will meet especially the spread of the UK with health experts to see mutation, requires us to come Israel’s government meets today to con- projected death trends. out of the lockdown very caresider an extension to its current lockdown Infection rates are befully. We will have to reopen the in the ongoing battle with the coronavirus ing monitored closely. economy more carefully than pandemic.

There is a decrease in we had planned a few weeks Minsters voted to ground all flights at Ben new infections in cities ago, and if we succeed, we will Gurion Airport until Sunday. And Prime where vaccinated people avoid another lockdown.”

Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced are over 60. Public health Ash added that the Health borders, including Jordan and Egypt, would issues include weight Ministry would present two verbe sealed from today due to the spread of gains, heart issues, desions of an exit strategy. “One deadly virus. pression, suicide and lack outline is tailored to a high Interior Minister Aryeh Deri confirmed of medical care. infection rate, the second is a in a statement that border crossings includThe Israeli governbroader outline, if the number ed the Jordan River, Taba and Arava. ment approved closure of patients in the hospitals deThe Allenby Bridge crossing with Jordan of Ben-Gurion to prevent Deserted Ben Gurion airport creases,” he explained.

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK is open for Judea and Samaria residents. entry of mutated coronaThree phases would include a Health experts backed the extension but virus variants into Israel. But Ben Gurion down. Contrary to public discourse, we partial reopening of the education system latest decisions came amidst arguments can’t be closed indefinitely so a testing sys- closed the skies in the normal format from and trade. Timing of each stage would be over fines for Covid violations in orthodox tem is required.

April to August. Now we are literally clos- reviewed. communities. Disturbing riots by extremRestrictions apply to everyone, even ing, with no commercial flights and nothIn the meantime, Health Minister Yuli ists have also taken place across the country those fully vaccinated or recovered from ing save for exceptional circumstances.”

Edelstein said 1.3m Israelis had now reincluding in Bnei Brak, the Mea She’arim the virus. A special committee will reHealth Ministry officials reported 7,737 ceived a second dose of the vaccine. Israneighborhood of Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh view humanitarian flights or exceptional new coronavirus cases yesterday. Of 76,708 el has expanded its vaccination drive to and Ashdod. circumstances. patients battling the disease, 1,141 are in 16-18-year-olds.

Defense Minister Benny Gantz said the Netanyahu said the measure would “her- serious condition, 311 are on ventilators.

Some 2.7 million Israelis have received a Blue & White party would not back restric- metically seal” the state.

The death toll is 4,513. first dose of the coronavirus vaccine and 1.3 tions if legislation doubling fines for virus “Just in this week of closed skies alone, anProf. Nachman Ash has called for a slow million a booster, 30% and 15% of the popviolators was not passed in the Knesset. other million Israelis will be vaccinated,” he reopening of the economy. ulation respectively. So far, 63.5% of IsraeLegislation has passed a first Knesset explained. “Given the increase in variants, He noted, “If we reopen the economy too lis aged over 90 have received both doses, reading but rejected by Chareidi and Arab which is leading to a record infection rate fast, it will lead to another wave of illness and 61.9% aged 80-89, 90.9% aged 70-79 and Jewish Weekly 265x158 0121.pdf 1 25/01/2021 17:03 MKs. and possibly more deaths, I said let’s close we want to avoid that. The new mutations, 73.6% aged 60-69.

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OPINION

Lesson for Holocaust Memorial Day OPINION PIECE

BY SHAUN BAILEY CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF LONDON Two years ago, I joined more than 10,000 participants on the March of the Living in Poland, to march together from Auschwitz to Birkenau in memory of the six million Jewish men, women and children murdered in the Holocaust and all victims of Nazi persecution.

As I walked alongside Holocaust survivors along the two-mile railway track between Auschwitz and Birkenau, where 1.1 million people were murdered, and listened to the personal accounts of survivors, I found it almost impossible to comprehend the horrors they had witnessed.

Visiting the camp, I saw for myself the infrastructure of genocide. It was astonishing to come face to face with the rooms that inmates were crowded into, to see how meticulously planned the camp was.

The visit brought to life the scale of the Holocaust in a way that no textbook ever could.

It was overwhelming to realise that this genocide came from the hearts of human beings. Men who had decided at the time that an entire people were to be

extinguished, and others who had stood idly by and allowed it to happen. I left my visit with many questions, reflecting on the depths that humanity can sink to.

There are still genocides taking place in our world today, in living memory of the Holocaust.

We have to ask ourselves, how do we ensure that the mistakes of history are not repeated?

Education is critical. It is thanks to the tireless work of charities like the Holocaust Educational Trust and the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust that the public are educated Shaun Bailey visiting Auschwitz on March of the Living about what happened. It is thanks to them that the personal accounts of efforts to bring the world’s attention to of Holocaust survivors will always live on. the plight of the Uighurs in China, as exAnd by committing to remembrance and emplified in Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis’s education, we keep their legacy secure for moving article calling on the public to act generations to come.

– reminding us all that we have a shared This year’s Holocaust Memorial Day responsibility to use our voices when theme is ‘Be the light in the darkness’. confronted with wrongdoing.

It does not go unnoticed that today, My eyes are wide open to the antisemthe Jewish community are so often the itism faced by the Jewish community in loudest voices against genocide and global my own city – London – and around the injustice. world.

The community is today at the forefront In my city, the Community Security

Schedule

Be the Light in the Darkness

A half-day of online innovative Holocaust education Date: Sunday 31 January 2021 Time: 14:30 to 21:00 (with breaks) Location: Online

14:30 – 15:30 An insider's walk through the Ringelblum Archive Exhibition at the Emanuel Ringelblum Jewish Historical Institute in Warsaw In partnership with the Taube Center for the Renewal of Jewish Life in Poland

Presenters: Dr Samuel Kassow, Helise Liberman and Aleksandra Sajdak

£22 | £10 for students Includes a special reduction on Prof. Lipstadt's recent book, Antisemitism: Here and Now

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Trust continues to record shocking levels of antisemitic incidents. We have seen antisemitic graffiti daubed on Jewish-owned shop fronts, the sad necessity for around the clock security for Jewish schools and synagogues, and antisemitic abuse being spread online at the click of a button. In the evolving fight against this age-old hatred, the spread of misinformation online is one of the most pressing challenges that we face.

At our university campuses too, students have been targeted and demonised just for voicing support of the state that has provided sanctuary for so many Jews after the Holocaust: Israel. This Is simply a new form of the old hatred.

If elected as Mayor of London, I will make it my personal mission to fight antisemitism on our university campuses and ban the abhorrent Al Quds Day march through London’s streets.

That any British Jew should feel unsafe in their own city is a complete travesty, and I vow to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Jewish community in our shared fight against this most pernicious of evils.

16:00 – 17:00 Contemporary Jewish pilgrim sites? Jerusalem and Auschwitz - do they satisfy the same need?

In both cases, handle with care!

Presenter: Clive Lawton 17:30-18:30 Stories from the Darkness; Rabbi Shapira, Róza Robota, the Ulma family Presenters: Jude Williams, Rachel Century, Rabbi Yoni Birnbaum, Angela Gluck 20:00 – 21:00 What can we all do to ensure the Holocaust and its lessons for humanity are never forgotten?

Professor Deborah Lipstadt, in conversation with Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum

Registered Charity No: 1131850

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The opinions on this page do not reflect the opinions of this Newspaper

Is change coming to the Middle East?

OPINION PIECE

BY JAMES J MARLOW The arrival of President Joe Biden to the White House from a general “Israel” consensus point of view is, it’s not as good as the Donald Trump years, but it won’t be as bad as the Barak Obama era.

The US Embassy will remain in Jerusalem, as this act was the implementation of a law passed by Congress in 1995, despite wild predictions of a “blood bath” if a move took place.

We also know that the huge success stories of peace and trade treaties between Israel and the Gulf States were welcomed and will be encouraged to grow and flourish.

However President Biden plans to reopen the PLO office in Washington, which was closed in 2018 by Trump, against a backdrop of the Palestinian Authority boycotting the Trump administration. To reopen the diplomatic office would violate congressional legislation that ordered it shut in the first place, if the Palestinians filed a suit against Israel at the ICC, which they did in 2017.

The President also plans to reopen the US Consulate on the east side of Jerusalem, which was closed by Trump after the Embassy moved from Tel Aviv. But the reopening would require a degree of permission from the Israeli government, who is concerned that the “West Bank” would be designated as a separate entity from Israel.

Then we have the major obstacle of the Iran nuclear deal. Biden would re-join the JCPOA signed in 2015 and drop the sanctions, if Tehran resumes strict compliance with the agreement. But the worry is that nuclear capabilities in the hands of the Iranian regime would be a huge threat to the future of the State of Israel, the Gulf

The President also plans to reopen the US Consulate on the east side of Jerusalem, which was closed by Trump after the Embassy moved from Tel Aviv.

States and the entire region.

Earlier this week IDF Chief of Staff, Aviv Kohavi, called upon President Biden NOT to re-enter the deal as “Iran now has enough uranium, because of its violations of the deal, to build a bomb within months.” The UAE and Bahrain are saying the exact same words and insist they are standing with Israel as one united voice in their meetings with the Americans.

Joe Biden appointed Antony Blinken, as Secretary of State and Deputy Secretary, Wendy Sherman, both of whom were part of the Obama administration. Blinken, who takes over from Mike Pompeo, is said to be “sensitive” to Israeli concerns on Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes.

But this time the US may wish to strengthen the agreement by lengthening it, which could indicate America wishes to deal with Iran’s international ballistic missile project and halting the enrichment of uranium completely.

As for US Ambassador to Israel, President Trump picked David Friedman, who was well connected in Washington, very well connected in Israel and had

Covid comment OPINION PIECE

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Vaccines are still hot topics, and I wish to clarify a few points from last week. Firstly, my research comes from material widely circulated in the press and on the web. It is no different to what can be accessed by any reader, although some interpretations may be subjective. At no time or for any reason would I advocate for anyone to refuse a vaccine, no matter the efficacy. As you will read in my column there is conflicting data.

One point I raised last week related to

the government go-ahead to disseminate vaccines through pharmacies; the implementation of this was delayed through initially, lack of vaccines, followed more recently by lack of personnel and suitable premises. Having now spoken to several pharmacists, they have explained the complexities of requiring adequate floor space and several consulting rooms, so that pharmacy and covid ‘traffic’ don’t mix, additionally that unnecessary queues do not form outside. This has proved quite onerous, especially for small independent pharmacies, aside from any overall logistics of supply. These are likely the main reason that hubs are the main centres of distribution. One of the first to

substantial connections within the Jewish communities. Under Obama, the only Ambassador that had a reasonable relationship with Israel and the Jewish community was Dan Shapiro, so Biden will likely choose someone who has good relations on all sides.

Biden’s persona is also very different from Obama. Biden is extremely good at building relations and is more of a “put your arm around kind of guy.” This is how he has traditionally done his politics.

Obama was more of a straight talker and certainly, a less friendly figure.

Under Trump, Israel enjoyed to a large extent, a degree of freedom to act to prevent, or slow down hostile activity against Israel from Iranian positions in Syria, who are looking to establish a strong and permanent presence.

Iran and its proxies have been infiltrating Israel’s northern border for years. Even in Gaza, Israel has had a relatively free hand in an act of self-defence to hit mostly, Islamic Jihad positions, backed by Iran.

It was Israel that made the Americans aware of how Iran was breaking the JCPOA roll out the much awaited pharma-vaccs in London was Cullimore pharmacy in Edgware, which began vaccinating on 14th Jan. As to the different formulations of vaccines available, [touched on last week] most providers appear equal, so it will not matter which version you get.

Again, advice from multiple pharmacist sources indicates whichever brand you get, you are in safe hands.

Israel is however reporting a surge in the virus, with its coronavirus ‘tsar’ Nachman Ash suggesting that the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine offers less protection than anticipated. I have been criticised for mentioning this, but when it’s you or a dear relative who might perish through lack of coverage, you might take a different stance. The WHO recommends the second Pfizer dose should be given between 21-28 days from the first. This is at odds with new advice here

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deal for a long time.

The famous case of Mossad stealing 50,000 pages of documents and 163 compact discs of memos, videos and plans of its nuclear programme from an Iranian warehouse in a commercial district of Tehran, was announced by Prime Minister Netanyahu in April 2018. The heist documented years of Iranian work on atomic weapons, warhead designs and production plans and was another reason why Trump abandoned the nuclear deal.

But Biden’s team is perhaps more experienced and maybe more balanced. They will certainly have a different approach towards Israel and that will cause tension.

In addition, Prime Minister Netanyahu is extremely unpopular with Democrats. In 2015, during the Obama administration, Netanyahu is said to have not informed the White House about the content of his speech to Congress, which expressed strong opposition to the Iran deal.

About a third of Democrats agreed with Netanyahu, but there was still a dramatic drop in his standing. Bibi was entitled to oppose the deal as it represented a substantial threat to the future of the State of Israel. But many Democrats felt because of his many meetings with Republicans at the time, he took political sides in what was supposed to be a non-partisan issue. However Biden is not likely to bear a grudge, as he wants to have a good relationship with Israel.

The strategic change in the region is the alliance between Israel and Sunni Arab nations, so the geopolitics has changed since the Obama years and Iran is less trusted today, than it was in 2015. But Bibi Netanyahu is the King of Politics and he and Biden will likely have good relationship.

James Marlow is a news broadcast commentator and communications trainer Facebook: James Jeremy Marlow Twitter: @James_J_Marlow to delay it by 12 weeks. Sheba Medical Centre shared research which showed the second dose afforded protection on 98% of cases. This is relevant as it appears many Israelis are catching covid between the {2 week} doses, with Ash saying the new strain (originating in Britain) was responsible for 40% of cases. Israel is known to be a leader in R&D, but as I said in a previous column, the variant could easily have originated anywhere. It is in any case now world-wide, and simply because we put our hands up to identify it, does not qualify us for ownership. I have a close friend who has had to travel several times to visit ailing relatives and can confirm there is no circumventing ‘arrival quarantine,’ which is imposed on every traveller. Even so the virus is getting out of hand. Only time will tell if we will see this anomaly across other countries or here at home.

16 LETTERS

Letters to the Editor Send in your comments to letters@thejewishweekly.com

Please note: The views of the letters do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Letters may be edited and publication is at the discretion of the editor.

DOUBLE STANDARDS OR WHAT…?

Dear Editor The period each year between Pesach & Shavuos as everybody know, is traditionally a time when, due to a plague that killed 24,000 of R’ Akiva’s talmidim, no weddings or parties are held.

Today, we are all so “machmir” to recall that event, and we do so by ensuring no weddings or musical celebrations are held.

Furthermore, in keeping with tradition, no haircuts are permitted and men grow beards as if in a time of mourning…

Today we are living through a modern day “plague”when, not 24,000, but so far, over 90,000 people have died in the UK, over 400,000 in the USA. Indeed the worldwide death toll will run into millions…

Yet some of our brethren deem it right and proper to ignore the law of the land to deliberately ensure that their weddings go ahead, with total disregard for the fact that their behaviour is so wrong on so many different levels.

The fact that so many of our own have become victims already, our communities suffering at a much higher rate than the general population); they openly flout and completely ignore the laws of the country ; their behaviour will almost certainly fan the flames of the already rising tide of antisemitism in this country and beyond; as a consequence of these gatherings, the chances of more of them or their families succumbing to the disease will increase disproportionately; all of these pale into insignificance in the minds of the “Rabbis”, baalei simcha, caterers; badchanim; hall owners; all of whom bear a terrible responsibility for their actions.

Yet come Sefira, being so “frum” these people would never even entertain the idea of even thinking about holding such events.

Name and address supplied

EDITORIAL PROTEST Dear Editor I write to protest at the tone of your editorial in your most recent edition.

You praise former President Trump, laud him as the greatest friend of the Jews and condemn President Biden at the start of his captaincy of the US ship and before he has a chance to develop his own record.

Firstly, President Trump is not worthy of your accolade. His isolationist view of the United States and his bullish attitude to diplomacy has left a power vacuum rapidly being filled by Russia and China and a loss of confidence and trust in the USA which is not good for Israel.

His withdrawal from important international bodies such as the WHO deprives millions of impoverished peoples of the benefit of its public health programmes and the withdrawal from the Climate Change Agreement could have devastating consequences for us all.

His rhetoric has dangerously divided and destabilised America. His attitude to racism and the succour he has given to White Supremacists should be of major concern and has left our brethren in America facing anti-Semitism on a scale not seen there for decades.

Not everything he has done is necessarily bad as you indicate. The Abraham

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Accords are unquestionably a major achievement but it should not be forgotten that a major part of the groundwork necessary to achieve those accords was laid during the time and under the influence of the man you vilify, President Obama. While the move of the US Embassy to Jerusalem is long overdue it also is pragmatic saving the US from maintaining an embassy in Tel Aviv and a separate consulate in Jerusalem. The latter has long served as a de facto embassy to the Palestinians and I doubt this will change.

I doubt the move has any more than symbolic benefit to Israel.

It should not be forgotten that Obama gave the most substantial financial support to Israel of any US President. Not all he did was right and his attempts to accommodate the Palestinians and Iran may well have gone too far, especially in respect of the JCPOA. President Biden may have been Obama’s Vice-President but he is also his own man. It is dangerous and wrong to play Trump’s game of condemning the man before he has begun, never mind the lashon hara this demonstrates.

Yours sincerely Dr Jonathan Bernstein

FROM THE FRONT LINE Dear Editor I wish to express my immense admiration and gratitude for Jacqueline Curzon’s weekly column.

To say the truth, I never used to pick up The Jewish Weekly before on such a regular basis (perhaps only once or twice a year). But since your weekly featuring of this brilliant, witty, most professional and originally informative journalist, The Jewish Weekly has become an absolute weekly must that I eagerly look forward to every Friday, always starting from its highlight - J.Curzon’s column!

I was quite distressed to learn from her last article that, in addition to all her

other numerous trials and tribulations, Jacqueline is now unwell with Covid.

I keep davening for her full, speedy recovery in all respects and hope to continue seeing her outstanding, sparkling articles on your pages... Please keep them coming!

With much appreciation, Devorah P. P.S. My children would also like to thank you for the wonderful kids’ section, full of interesting riddles and jokes that they enjoy reading over Shabbos. They now especially love ‘dingbats’.

JAMES MARLOW’S IMPEACHMENT OPINION Dear Editor I am a regular reader of the Jewish Weekly and generally am in agreement with many of James Marlow’s assessments. However his opinion piece on the “Impeachment attempt by the Democrats” on 14 January, is a serious case of misreporting and misrepresenting the words of Kamala Harris. James stated that she called for “unrest on the streets,” and therefore is clearly wrong.

He further went on to state that a Missouri Senator called for the assassination of Donald Trump. But that was a news story from August 2017 and has zero relevance to his opinion piece. I feel that to his detriment and the detriment of the Jewish Weekly readership, James has made a serious error by reporting these non-factual and inaccurate points. It is precisely because I do generally agree with his views, that I feel compelled to send this email, with a hope that he will check into these facts and if he feels he made an error, then he has the moral

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OPINION

The opinions on this page do not reflect the opinions of this Newspaper

Impeachment attempt will increase American division OPINION PIECE

BY JAMES J MARLOW This second attempt by the Democrats to impeach the President, days before he will step down from office, is designed to further tarnish his image and destroy his legacy. Nancy Pelosi and company, wish to portray Donald Trump as an “exception” and “historical accident” in American history.

But in reality, the Democrats now have control of both Houses and the White House, and need to stop playing “petty politics” and instead focus on programmes and policies that are urgently needed, to cope with the health and economic crisis.

The Democrats have absolutely no chance of getting an impeachment through the Senate by 20 January, and so this move will simply increase the polarised divisions within American society.

Donald Trump leaves behind a huge legacy with major achievements on both the foreign and domestic fronts. When he took office in 2016, he arguably prevented war with North Korea by giving its leader, Kim Jong-un, a world platform.

Trump stood up to China and slapped huge tariffs on their imported goods, which is how American factories re-opened and large numbers from the black and Hispanic communities were back at work, manufacturing American goods.

The President rightly told NATO that they had to pay their fair share of the huge defence budget, and they did. He stood up to the EU, Iran and the Palestinians, cancelling the UNRWA funding in Gaza and shutting down the PLO office in Washington DC, for paying terrorists to kill Israelis.

Trump’s legacy includes the American Embassy, recognition of the Golan and the main Jewish

communities in Judea and Samaria.

The normalisation of ties between Israel and UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco, Bhutan, Kosovo and Oman, would never have happened without Donald Trump. Today, significant trade and business takes place between Israel and the Gulf States.

But when the dust settled after last week’s violence, which left five people dead, including a police officer, I wrote elsewhere that this was perpetrated by a group of radical thugs, totally opposed to the rule of law and order, and it is to be condemned in the highest form. We now know that some of those arrested were NOT Trump supporters.

But the vast majority were, and some came from farright Neo-Nazi groups.

At the rally, Trump, said, “We’re gonna walk down

Donald Trump

to the Capital and we’re going to cheer on, our brave Senators and Congress-Men and Woman, and we’re probably not going to be cheering for some of them, because you’ll never take back our country with weakness, you have to show strength and you have to be strong”.

This in my view, added “fuel to the fire,” to a bunch of thugs who don’t know their right from their left, and they were under the impression, “the election has been stolen from us”.

Even worse, one of the most secure buildings in the United States is penetrated so easily by a mob, demanding, “Stop the Steal.” They broke into the chamber, whilst elected Congress members and employees crouched under desks, hiding in fear for their lives.

Having said this, I will NOT be bullied in condemning the Trump legacy. You can disagree with his brash style and approach and you can criticise him for “pushing a button” last week, just to see what would happen.

But overall, Trump got things done and more than 74 million people voted for him.

Donald Trump pulled off some of the most remarkable things, and we must never forget that. For this I say, thank you Mr President.

Many elected Democrats appeared on CNN and MSNBC last year and called for large scale demonstrations, including spotting Cabinet Members in restaurants or stores, create a crowd and show them they are not welcome. Vice President Elect, Kamala Harris called for “Unrest on the streets”, while Nancy Pelosi called Trump supporters “Enemies of the State.”

A Missouri State PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK Senator said, “I hope

Donald Trump is assassinated,” while a news commentator said “They are going to have to put a bullet in Donald Trump and that’s a fact”.

A celebrity holds a “bloody” head of Donald Trump, while Madonna opined at a rally, “I have thought an awful lot about blowing up the White House.” CNN anchor-man Chris Cuomo said, “Show me where it says protests are supposed to be polite and peaceful”.

In response the anti-Donald Trump camp and much of the media say to me, “Don’t you dare bring up Antifa”. But what about the Court House in Portland that was bombed nightly for a month – how was that allowed to happen?

This is America we are talking about, not some small African nation.

If there is no respect or tolerance to exercise a democratic right to vote for whoever you choose, without fear of intimidation or violence, then it’s anarchy. They say, “You CAN vote, but if I disagree with your choice, you are an extremist”.

There must be one set of principles for both sides. But in this polarised society, the media and many voters become so entrenched, they fail to see what is happening to their democracy. Have we learnt nothing from history?

President Elect Joe Biden insisted, “This is a time of reconciliation and coming together”. So Democrats, stop the crazy impeachment process and leave the Republican Party to sort out their own issues. Begin the healing process and move on.

The stage is set for Joe Biden to take over the White House and we must all come together and be ready for the next chapter in American politics.

James Marlow is a news broadcast commentator and communications trainer Email: James@TheCommunicationBureau. com Twitter: @James_J_Marlow

Communal responsiblity to stop the spread and save lives OPINION PIECE

BY MARIE VAN DER ZYL, PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DEPUTIES OF BRITISH JEWS This week we had the grim news that, in the week ending 8 January, the Jewish community had suffered 43 deaths.

To put these figures into perspective, this is the highest figure since 17 April which was the very peak of the first wave of the pandemic. At this point, there is no indication that we have reached the height of this current wave. Therefore, there is every chance that the coming weeks will bring even more tragic news.

There cannot be many of us who do not

have a friend, colleague or acquaintance who has died from this dreadful illness.

On the news we see our wonderful doctors and nurses doing everything within their power to save the lives of people struggling to take a breath. Then we see the relatives of the dead distraught over the awful way their loved ones died – alone without the possibility of finding comfort from their nearest and dearest.

There is nothing more important in our religion than saving a life. Pikuach nefesh is the concept that saving a human life is more important than any mitzvot. For the next few weeks, this must be the priority for all of us. As I write, the elderly and the vulnerable are having their first dose of vaccine – we are lucky to be living in an age in which such rapid scientific progress

is saving lives. I want all of my friends and relatives to benefit from this wonderful treatment.

What this means in practice is that every one of us has a serious responsibility to look after ourselves and, even more importantly to look after one another.

Government medical advice is currently to stay at home – you can leave for exercise, medical care and to buy essentials for your family, and of course many frontline workers have to work to ensure that the rest of us can manage at this time. We have been told to act as if we have the virus – that means wearing masks, washing hands, maintaining a safe space and not putting ourselves or our loved ones at any risk.

We are all missing contact with friends and family. I know many people are on

their own without any company for days and weeks on end – this is very hard. We cannot hug our elderly parents or our children and grandchildren if they don’t live with us. Many synagogues have closed their doors voluntarily despite currently being allowed to stay open by the Government for fear that this new variant could spread even through socially distanced prayer.

I can’t wait to see everyone again and I know all of you feel the same. If the vaccination programme is rolled out efficiently, there is a chance that something near to normal life could return in time for Pesach celebrations but if we have to wait a little longer, we will. If we observe the rules we will save lives and there is no mitzvah greater than that.

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duty to correct these inaccuracies ASAP and not colour future pieces with false reporting.

Abraham Weinstein

James Marlow responds…

Dear Abraham I appreciate your “general” support of my views, although it is perfectly acceptable for you to have a different view. However I am surprised you came out fighting and finger pointing against me in your second sentence with all sorts of accusations.

If you would have simply asked for my source on Vice President Kamala Harris, instead of accusing me of false reporting and that I have a “moral duty” to tell the truth, my tone would be a little more friendlier.

I guess the video I have on my phone, which has also been posted on my Twitter and Facebook accounts, of Kamala Harris in person, calling for unrest, must be “fake news.” Or it is authentic, and it is YOU who has it wrong.

Last year when the riots began, Kamala Harris said in an interview on the Late Show, and I am quoting word for word: “They’ll not stop before election day in November and they’re not gonna stop after election day, and they should not.

Everyone take note of that on both levels.

They’re not gonna let up and they should not”.

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The live discussion which has gone viral, was about the unrest, riots, destruction of property and injuries to police by the political movements, BLM, Antifa and others.

As for your claim that because a Missouri Senator called for the assassination of Donald Trump, it is irrelevant before it was just “a news story in August 2017” and occurred before the riots began, why would you think I would not mention that in my opinion piece?

You can be a loyal paid up member of the Democrat Party, but if one of your Senators calls for the assassination of the President, you need to call it out for what it is, and NOT cover it up. She was arrested by police at the time.

I do check my sources. I don’t knowingly misrepresent or misreport and I did check the facts with video. I am therefore quite satisfied that what I wrote was accurate and correct and that no error was made. However we now have a brand new President and Vice President and it’s time to move on and work with the Administration.

James Marlow

28 JANUARY 2021

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From the editor’s desk

King David Primary School presents KDTV

WEDDINGS The Jewish nation are supposed to be a light unto the nations, proud role models of exemplary behaviour for the world to follow our lead. What is deeply upsetting is when we make a chillul Hashem - a public desecration of G-d’s name. Sadly The Jewish Weekly phones were ringing this week with complaints at the large scale wedding, where police found 150 people illegally celebrating behind windows covered up with black bags. Footage was broadcast across the nation and a £10,000 fine was handed out amongst other fines.

One of the callers was a non Jewish woman from Stamford Hill saying that she is embarrassed and angry at her neighbours blatant disregard for the law. ‘Why are we all cooped up at home trying to save lives whilst the people I have lived with for over 40 years are celebrating with hundreds of potential virus spreaders?’ she tells me. ‘It’s like they think they are better then us,’ she said.

‘They can’t blame the fact that they don’t know. The black bags on the windows expels that myth. It’s disgraceful.’

As one prominent Dayan mentioned this week, people have had long enough to know the rules and perhaps a 10k fine is simply not enough. The non Jewish lady was pushing us to demand prison sentences or at least 100k fines. Would that stop the weddings?

Yes it’s not just frum Jews. Plenty of people across the country have been caught at illegal raves, parties and all manner of events, including politicians and associates, footballers and so called ‘celebrities.’

However two wrongs do not make a right, especially when over 100,000 people have died in the UK, and over 2 million around the world.

What people need to understand is that it works both ways. Frum Jews dress differently; and therefore if you look more religious than your neighbours, naturally you are judged by higher standards than the rest of society. Let’s live up to our name.

ISRAEL The recent demonstrations in Israel have been shocking to watch; scenes that have horrified Jews around the world. The police aren’t massively righteous either, however this is no excuse. Gedolei Hador including Reb Chaim Kanievsky, have rightly condemned these thugs.

APOLOGY

SEFER RECALL Last week we published an advert ‘Sefer Recall.’ Following several discussions this week, we understand that other Gedolim take a different view to the ‘Daas Torah’ in question and say that the translations in the Sefer do not constitute ‘apikorsos.’

We feel in retrospect that we should not have accepted this advert especially when people’s reputations are on the line. Therefore we wish to apologise to Reb Eliyahu Munk of Frankfurt for any harm caused.

RABBI APPLE We apologise that the wrong Rabbi Apple sedra article was published last week.

King David Primary School is pleased to present KDTV! An online TV show streaming episodes weekly to the King David Community.

KDTV is a collection of episodes made and presented by all the wonderful children of KDTV. The show was created as a way of keeping in touch during the lockdown. Children have been bust filming themselves, wether it be showing their pets, their musical talents, cooking skills, fitness workouts or just a video that they would like included in the show. This is then presented by children introducing the different clips.

“During this lockdown we felt it was so important to be able to still connect as a

community and also give our children something to keep busy and help entertain others. Not seeing friends and not having the extracurricular activites that all our children love doing, we tapped into the talents that our children have! We know they love making videos, so why not put a “TV” show together. The series has proved so popular that it is possible that it could continue even after lockdown as we have enough material to last 6-8 weeks with even more being made all the time!! “ You can access KDTV from the School website or the School Facebook Page! Thank you to our wonderful children, families and staff for making this happen!

AJEX appoints new patron Robert Voss CBE CStJ, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, has been appointed an Honorary Patron of AJEX. The sole Jewish Lord-Lieutenant in England, apart from Lord Rothschild in the 1880s, his role encompasses posts with the County Military Forum, Reserve Forces & Cadets’ Association in Hertfordshire and East Anglian Forces Association.

Mr Voss said, “My late father and fatherin-law regularly attended AJEX parades having served in the British Army during World War II. I have great respect to those who have risked and given their lives so that we may live in peace. I look forward to bringing value to the organisation and engaging with members and the existing Honorary Patrons.”

Mike Bluestone, AJEX national chairman, said the appointment would bring a valuable new dimension to the

Robert Voss CBE CStJ

organisation. “We hugely appreciate him agreeing to come on board and look forward to benefitting from his wealth of experience,” he said.

Morning exercises for the boys from Bury and Whitefield Jewish Primary School Nursery.

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mail@nlscaffolding.co.uk NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL www.nlscaffolding.co.uk

Bury & Whitefield Jewish primary Nursery

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BBY exceeds its target

Bnos Beis Yaakov presents the big cheque

Rabbi Yossi Lock in the Manchester Beis Din laboratory inspecting seaweed for possible infestation

Kashrut supervisors zoom in on bugs Kashrus supervisors at Manchester Beth Din are using their in-house laboratory to launch a bug-busting service to the public.

The lab enables the supervisors (mashgichim) to provide close-up inspection of food items that may contain bugs, which are not kosher.

The service is already available to premises under the Beth Din’s supervision, such as restaurants, takeaways, caterers, bakeries and care homes.

Now it is being extended so that members of the public too can have items checked for infestation.

The lab has a digital microscope which provides up to 1000x magnification, along with equipment such as magnifying glasses and LED lights.

Rabbi Yossi Lock, a mashgiach at Manchester Beth Din, which is one of the leading kashrus authorities in Europe, said: “Food items such as rice, flour, barley, beans and other vegetables, edible plants and herbs may have infestation which is not clearly

visible to the naked eye.

“Our lab gives us the scope to analyse things closer.

“It means we can be certain as to whether items are free of infestation and are therefore permitted for use, whether there is a problem and we can initiate a process to get the bugs out, or whether the infestation is too great to be removed.

“The lab keeps us at the forefront of kashrus inspection and supervision in our licensed premises, and to determine what can and cannot be used.

“We are pleased to now introduce this service to members of the community who may have items at home that need checking.

They are welcome to phone us and make an appointment for these goods to be inspected in our lab.

“There is no charge to the public, although donations would be welcome from those using the service.

“We are a community body, and we are here for the community.”

Bnos Beis Yaakov (BBY) Primary School undertook to raise £500,000 in just 36 hours. Not only did they achieve this goal, but people also continued giving after the campaign ended, and BBY have managed to raise almost £520,000.

Despite concerns regarding the campaign falling in the midst of this current pandemic, BBY still managed to raise this astounding amount.

The school governors, Zvi Sobel, Zvi Steinhart, Rabbi Dovid Rose, Eli Tamir, Geoff Dennis and Paul Besnainou worked tirelessly and diligently alongside the school staff, parent body & community members to facilitate such a remarkable result.

The campaign was organised as BBY has flourished to such an extent since opening its doors 10 years ago, that funds were needed to accommodate the growing interest in the school.

BBY’s aim is to expand and improve their newly-acquired site, by building a dining hall, a fully-equipped gymnasium, an IT suite, a SEN suite and a library.

The BBY campaign was more than just a fundraising campaign. It turned out to be a project of incredible Achdus. Each BBY parent approached this campaign with great enthusiasm, determined to help reach the shared goal. The passion exhibited through the sheer effort from so many parents reflects the tremendous level of satisfaction which BBY parents have with the school.

However, this feeling of Achdus seemed to spread wider than just the parent body.

Such an overwhelming amount of North West London seemed to be swept up into the excitement of BBY’s campaign. There was a large number of donors who gave to multiple teams; not satisfied with ‘having done their bit’, they wanted to give more.

Many teams increased their target goal mid campaign due to the amazing success with so many willing and generous donors. Additionally, many donations were received from donors passing on team links to their friends. This further

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exemplifies the level of communal togetherness for the success of this campaign.

Furthermore, donations continued pouring in well after the official end of the campaign. In the words of one such donor, which so perfectly echoes the sentiments of many; “I wanted a chelek in this.”

Mr Yitzi Bude, Director of Charity Extra, commended BBY saying, “I have rarely seen a campaign where the majority of teams worked so hard, this shows there is a lot Achdus in your school.”

The chairman of the Board of Governors, Mr Zvi Sobel, on behalf of BBY wants to extend the deepest and warmest thank you to Mr BE Perl MBE along with all the other matchers without whom this campaign would have never began.

A special thanks to Eli Tamir, one of the governors of the school and a renowned international singer. He used his extensive event planning skills to flawlessly lead the campaign team from the top, overseeing all planning and logistics in advance and directing communications on the day. Mr Tamir is slowly gaining a reputation as a director of fundraising campaigns across the kehilla.

He would also like to thank all teams who were on the front line raising the money for this project.

Last but not least he would like to thank every single one of the more than 4200 donors who have helped this to be such a huge success.

With this new legacy soon to be in place we can ensure that there will be sufficient places for the kehila’s ever growing demand.

Each donor has not only supported a school that has earned itself a sterling reputation by producing wonderful talmidos, but has been a part of something bigger.

Every donation has a part in building a school which is projected to change the future of the NW London Kehilla.

How can a great school become even greater? Watch this space!

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Sisters behind a monthly lockdown initiative

Deborah and Katie Abram

Sisters Deborah and Katie Abram from West Hampstead are behind a monthly initiative that has benefited hundreds of households since the start of lockdown.

Nearly 2,000 ‘Something Special’ packages containing food, treats, quotes and newspapers have been sent out to cheer people up and provide something special in difficult times.

Events have also included workouts in the park and a Zoom Chanukah virtual lighting.

Volunteers are now helping Deborah, an economist at Savills, and 15-year-old Katie

by cooking and delivering packages.

“The packages are not only Covid-related, they are uplifting,” said Deborah.

“Thanks to everyone who helps from deliveries to cooking. There are so many people involved now.”

“We often include a quote from the book Kindness by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin who said that “every person you encounter has some attributes from which you can learn”.”

To keep updated, to get involved or to send an address for someone to receive a package, check out ‘Something Special’ on Instagram ‘@something_special_da’

CONSIDERING ALIYAH? Join hundreds of British Olim making their Aliyah dream a reality.

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WORKING IN COOPERATION TO BUILD A STRONGER ISRAEL THROUGH ALIYAH

Every one of us, together

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Lockdown experience inspires her to Give It Forward

Susan Pollock telling stories over Zoom

During the first Lockdown, volunteers through GIFT began helping 74 year old Susan Pollock with her shopping and prescription requests, as she was isolating and vulnerable with many health issues. This then extended into befriending phone calls from volunteers, and when permitted, she received garden visits from university students who absolutely loved visiting her. It was during one of these visits that Susan expressed how she used to be an early years’ teacher and that she missed working with children.

With the help of one of her befrienders, who set up the technology and the zoom meetings, Susan decided she would put on a weekly storytelling session over zoom.

This was advertised to GIFT families and to the local community too and Susan’s storytelling sessions became a reality and have been running weekly since the beginning of July.

Susan has a great rotation of books with engaging pictures. The children look forward to ‘Storytime with Susan’ and many have said it is the highlight of their week!

Manchester King David Primary School is closed, but the school is open for children of Key Workers. These two Key Workers’ children, Dexter Lever and George Esner are holding the school’s Trees to be planted on Tu B’Shvat.

Susan absolutely loves being able to contribute and give back to a community who have helped her in such an incredible way.

Student Kira Moshal, 22 who has been helping Susan with this project told us “Susan was so eager to establish this storytelling group as a way of contributing to our community’s stellar volunteering efforts. It has been so special to see how she interacts and engages with the children, always making sure to greet them by name.

Her kindness has also given parents a much needed break.”

Michelle Barnett GIFT Founding Director explains “GIFT is an achronym for ‘Give It Forward Today’ and Susan’s story is a wonderful example of the power and contagious nature of giving and the raison d’être of our charity, to inspire giving. It is thanks to all the amazing volunteers who came to her aid during lockdown, inspiring Susan to give back.”

If you would like to volunteer your time or resources through GIFT, sign up through volunteer@jgift.org or call 0208 457 4429

Dexter Lever and George Esner with trees for Tu B’Shvat

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL.

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Holocaust messages from Prince Charles and Boris

National landmarks across Britain including Wembley Stadium, the London Eye and Tyne Bridge were bathed in a purple light to mark last night’s memorial under the theme ‘Be the Light in the Darkness’.

BY DAVID SAFFER Prince Charles called on people to bear witness to the Shoah as survivor numbers decline for Holocaust Memorial Day yesterday.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Holocaust must never be forgotten during PMQs in the House of Commons.

The Duchess of Cambridge held a virtual meeting with Holocaust survivors.

National landmarks across Britain including Wembley Stadium, the London Eye and Tyne Bridge were bathed in a purple light to mark last night’s memorial under the theme ‘Be the Light in the Darkness’. A virtual remembrance was streamed online for the first time.

“The last generation of living witnesses is tragically passing from this world, so the task of bearing witness falls to us,” Prince of Wales said, “This is not a task for one time only, nor is it a task for one generation, or one person. It is for all people, all generations, and all time. This is our time when we can, each in our own way, be the light that ensures the darkness can never return.”

Around 900 Holocaust survivors died from Covid-19 in Israel last year. The heartrending total was announced on the eve of Holocaust Remembrance Day by the Central Bureau of Statistics. Records show that 5,300 survivors had the deadly virus during the period.

The youngest Holocaust survivors are 75 years of age and among the most susceptible to Covid.

Current statistics show that 3,000 Israelis have been recognised as survivors.

The HMD ceremony included messages from political and religious leaders, survivors of the Holocaust, genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur, celebrities and Premier League footballers.

Johnson met Auschwitz-Birkenau and Bergen-Belsen survivor Renee Salt and World War Two veteran Ian Forsyth who was one the first to arrive at Bergen-Belsen as it was liberated.

“It’s so vital that you both have had the courage to continue to share with everybody, with me and the world, your memories of what took place,” Johnson said. “We can never forget it. Your personal memories have been perhaps the most powerful things I’ve ever heard. What you saw and experienced is horrifying and we must make sure nothing like that happens again.”

Renee recalled being separated from her father at Auschwitz as part of Josef Mengele’s selection process and cramped conditions.

“The hut was already overcrowded before we got in,” she said. “We had to sit against the wall, five in a column packed like sardines. In this position we sat day and night.”

Forsyth recalled, “I still dream about what happened on that day,” he said, “You wouldn’t have believed what we saw.”

Johnson added, “People get complacent about anti-Semitism. I think in the UK we can get complacent about it and we mustn’t.”

David Sassoli, European Parliament president and Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, Conference of European Rabbis addressed the European Parliament on Tuesday night.

Chazan Israel Muller, Great Synagogue of Europe in Brussels, recited El Malei Rachamim.

The annual event coincided with the day Auschwitz was liberated by the Red Army.

“Today many of Europe’s remaining 1.6 million Jews are descendants of Holocaust survivors but Europe is at crossroads, testing its resilience and values,” said Chief Rabbi Goldschmidt, who noted at the end of World War Two, a large proportion of

Holocaust survivors felt that there was no Jewish future in Europe.

He added, “More and more countries are in the process of legislating new restrictions against the Jewish community of Europe, curtailing the freedom of faith Jews have enjoyed in Europe for most of a millennium.”

Pointing out a prohibition against kosher slaughter in Wallonia and Flanders, and Scandinavian and Finish citizens calling to ban circumcision, the Chief Rabbi said legislation against religion in Europe must stop. “If the freedom of religion will not be guaranteed in Europe, the descendants of the 1.6 million Jews in Europe will have great difficulty in making Europe their home and believing in a secure Jewish future,” he concluded, Speaking at yesterday’s EP ceremony, he noted, “The passage of time means we have to look at these events with the force of reason and without the precious help of those who experienced the devastation, the ferocity, and the ruinous force of the nationalist devil. But we must also remember that those who experienced that horror have left democratic and European institutions in our custody.

“Europe itself was born as a symbol of openness, cooperation, awareness of a common destiny. It was born from a great vision, from a courageous ideal that drew strength from such a huge tragedy as the one caused by the Second World War and the horrific Nazi designs. This is why all of us Europeans must share responsibility for that custody, the custody of democracy and Europe.

“Holocaust Remembrance Day is not just an anniversary, above all it is an invitation to show our commitment, vigilance and responsibility. To prevent denial and amnesia, we must all make this commitment to a clear and vigilant historical memory, capable not only of bearing witness but also of understanding, preventing, and intervening whenever the seeds of absolute evil spread.”

Amazon removed 92 works of Holocaust denial in multiple languages for sale after dialogue with World Jewish Congress and the Board of Deputies in advance of HMD. Works included the ‘Leuchter Report’ which claimed the gas chambers did not exist, ‘The Six Million Swindle’ by Nazi sympathiser and Holocaust denier Austin Joseph App and ‘The Auschwitz Myth - Legend or Reality’ by former Nazi officer and Holocaust denier Wilhelm Stäglich.

The items have been removed from Amazon UK and 17 localities where Amazon operates.

Over 850 links to Amazon’s websites have also been removed.

The Board and WJC in a joint statement

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welcomed Amazon’s decision.

“Holocaust denial is unequivocally anti-Semitic, it claims that the Holocaust was fabricated and that therefore, Jews are lying to advance some nefarious agenda,” they noted.

The Board and WJC have called on publishers, booksellers and distributors to follow Amazon’s example.

WJC, meantime, launched its fifth annual ‘We Remember Campaignn to combat anti-Semitism and all forms of hatred, genocide and xenophobia. The campaign promotes Holocaust education.

WJC held virtual commemorations featuring survivors and representatives from Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum.

“As eye-witness memories of the Holocaust fade, and as our world has confronted the Covid-19 pandemic, we are seeing rising levels of anti-Semitism, xenophobia, racist ideologies and Holocaust denial,” said WJC President Ambassador Ronald S. Lauder. “We must heed the horrific lessons of the past and learn from and share the stories of Holocaust survivors to honour the memory of the six million Jews the Nazis killed and ensure today’s escalation of hatred does not become a repetition of those atrocities.”

In other initiatives, March of the Living UK and the London School of Jewish Studies presented an online event that included a walk through the Jewish Historical Institute in Warsaw with Dr. Samuel Kassow along with sessions by MOTL educators.

Action Against Discrimination called on relevant authorities of the need to rid football of anti-Semitism as HMD remembers the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust.

AAD chairman Jonathan Metliss said, “Seventy-six years after the Holocaust, anti-Semitism in English and European football continues. Hissing noises mimicking the gas chambers at football matches, aggressive responses to chanting and use of the word ‘Yid’ have not disappeared. We call on relevant football authorities, football clubs, police and politicians to do their upmost to prevent the continuation of this unacceptable and vile behaviour.”

Metliss added, “The Holocaust reminds us of the deprivation of our basic civil liberties and freedoms. The experiences and memories of the Holocaust must not be forgotten and anti-Semitism in football must be eradicated once and for all.”

Great Western Railway, meantime, lit up the ‘British Schindler’ statue to mark HMD. Sir Nicholas Winton’s statue at Maidenhead Station was illuminated by 669 candles to represent the children rescued Prague prior to World War Two. Synagogues throughout the country ran virtual events for congregants.

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Jewish Care support the community to mark Holocaust Memorial Day Jewish Care is supporting their residents, tenants of Retirement Living apartments, members of Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre to mark Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January. The organisation is also connecting survivors and older people at home with younger members of the community online.

With the help of volunteers, Jewish Care has packed and sent 750 parcels with memorial candles to older people in the community. Many will join the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust lighting at 8pm and Holocaust Survivors’ Centre members will light candles together after their Zoom Yiddish conversation group on the day.

One of those who will light is Harry Olmer BEM, member of Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre. Harry says, “It’s important to remember the Holocaust, without memories there’s nothing left.”

Members of the Supportive Communities Tea Parties for Holocaust survivors will also light together on Zoom and in care homes, residents will be marking the day with an online ceremony and by lighting memorial candles with Rabbi Junik, Jewish Care’s spiritual and cultural advisor.

Holocaust survivor, Manfred Goldberg BEM who is a member of Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivor’s Centre shared his inspirational story last week with over 100 people as part of a Young Jewish Care and March of the Living online event. Manfred was born in Germany in 1930. He spent time in the Riga Ghetto, a labour camp and Stutthof concentration camp. Manfred was

sent on a death march in appalling conditions before finally being liberated at Neustadt in Germany on 3 May 1945.

Ivor Perl BEM was just 12 when he was taken to Auschwitz and moved to Dachau Concentration Camp before being liberated. He is a member of Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre and a tenant at Jewish Care’s Selig Court Retirement Living apartments.

This week he reached out to Bar Mitzvah boy, Joseph Shaw to give him a blessing and words of encouragement on resilience, overcoming challenges and appreciating what we have in life, especially in light of the current pandemic. He said, “May you grow up to be proud and a credit to your Jewish heritage, the Jewish people and especially to your parents”.

13-year-old, Joseph, who belongs to Bushey United Synagogue and is a JFS student, will be twinning his Bar Mitzvah through Yad Vashem’s programme with Chaim Szwarc from Berezne, Poland who perished in the Shoah aged only five years old.

After speaking with Ivor online, Joseph said: “I am really honoured to receive a blessing from Ivor and spend time talking to him. It is important to make sure that our future generations never forget. I will try my hardest”.

In his Holocaust Memorial Day message to the community, Jewish Care Chief Executive, Daniel Carmel-Brown, says, “At this time of year we remember those who perished in the Holocaust and other

Member of Jewish Care’s Holocaust Survivors’ Centre Ivor Perl BEM with Bar Mitzvah boy Joseph Shaw

genocides and we encourage everyone to light a candle in remembrance.

“Life has been hard for us in the last year and yet when we set this in the context of the last century, we know the greatest tragedy to befall the world and the Jewish community was the Holocaust. Jewish Care’s work with Holocaust survivors is vital for so many and I’m grateful to our colleagues and volunteers for all they have done and continue to do, to support survivors through the pandemic. Many of whom are now participating in a huge array of online programme and activities. That we honour their bravery and their legacy at this time is so important.

“What we learn from survivors is the light that is so important because it is the light that brings us hope. We have seen so much kindness shown to us and other, volunteers who have come forward to support the community. We only have to look at the solidarity shown by so many to see that there is not room for racism anywhere and I know how important that is to our diverse workforce. As we mark Holocaust Memorial Day, at Jewish Care we remember that caring for others is the job of the Jewish community. We know as much as anyone that indifference is dangerous and together, we will ensure that never again, means never again.”

Manchester King David Primary school pupils marked Holocaust Memoral Day. Max Terry, Mason Esner and Joseph Attias, year 6 pupils pictured holding a memorial candles for the Six Million Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

Manchester King David Primary school pupils have completed the Answergarden project of kindness in memory of Rabbi Sacks z”l. These kindness acts have been framed and will be sent to the family of Rabbi Sacks.

Max Terry, Mason Esner and Joseph Attias

From left to right: Ruthie Nesbit, Polly Stephens and Rosie Phillips

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL.

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24 FEATURE

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From the front line…

BY JACQUELINE CURZON Israel has just banned all flights for a week in an attempt to stop the spread of new variants. The borders have been pretty much closed anyway to all but Israeli travellers.

Yuli Edelstein, Israeli Health Minister, told the BBC Andrew Marr Show, that its data suggested that a first dose of the Pfizer vaccine gave just 30% protection. He softened this worrying statistic by saying that those who became ill [after one dose] tend to have less severe illness, and fewer were admitted to hospital. 25% of Israelis have now been vaccinated, Jacqueline Curzon with expansion recently rolled out PHOTO: LARA MINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY to include the over 40s, and 16-18 year olds. Contrary advice at home from Prof. Anthony Harding, deputy chairman of the JCVI, postulates that there was no real evidence that a quicker second dose was more effective. He cited data for Moderna, similar to Pfizer, which showed 1000 people had 90% immunity after 2 going anywhere? Why on earth are people months of a first dose. Therein lies part still travelling to the UK in the midst of a life of our cultural problem. If you've had the altering epidemic, when you are likely to jab, you may be unlikely to follow all the take away something altogether more sinisadditional measures for such a long time ter than holiday snaps of deserted cities. following it, as you are told you are protectBoris is batting for our children to get ed. The BMA has written to the CMO, Chris back to school by March, but Gavin WilWhitty, asking him to rethink the 12 week liamson, Education Minister, has hinted follow-up, as they believe it should not be a gap of more than 6 weeks, in line with WHO that schools may not return until even later, claiming that returning after Februguidance. It's very early days in the vaccine ary half term may be too soon. Prof Lee programme, so no-one really knows.

Major, Professor of Social Mobility at the The UK Government is deliberating whether to demand arrivals pay for their 10 University of Exeter has talked about ‘educational scarring,’ and reasoned there are day hotel quarantine. At a projected cost larger learning losses in primary compared of £1500, complete with meals and room to secondary. It's common sense that for service, I think that's not unreasonable. children who significantly fall behind with If you are a foreign national travelling for pleasure (!#@) it's on you. If you're coming their basic skills, it will be a setback for life.

The London School of Economics is prehere on unavoidable business, then it's paring a research in public opinion, to see for your boss to foot the bill. If you're a UK if the public would support a move for the resident, then it should be sufficient to prove that and simply quarantine at home, children struggling most, to repeat a year of school. The Social Mobility Commission at no cost. One has to ask if they will cater is similarly in favour of this. If little Josh for all tastes and religious preferences too. aged 10, has fallen that far behind, would Britain's hospitality and catering sectors have already had a hammering, so it would you push him into high school, where he can begin a five year sentence of further be unreasonable to have the Treasury foot failure? I'm not sure any perceived benefit the quarantine bill. Did I mention the rest of us are pretty much prisoners at home? If of being with their peers would outweigh I'd made it to Russia, Mr Putin would hard- the ignominy of failing the whole way through high school. ly have put me up at his expense, in a nice Like most of the country we have a hotel for enforced quarantine; if you travel household of online learners at home. to Israel, you foot your own bill. So, what's Learning lots of very useful facts and the question here?! As it transpires there information, including how to circumvent would not be enough hotel space anyway parental interference whilst they flit from to accommodate the expected numbers channel to channel during breaks. And arriving, so they are considering bus-ing when the school day is done, it's a nighttravellers to more far flung destinations. mare vista, seeing 5 children sitting mute The move is apparently supported and glassy eyed, all on different devices. It

by Matt Hancock and Priti Patel, but makes me long for the halcyon days when Grant Shapps, the Transport Secretary, I would sit watching tv with my parents is fundamentally opposed to it, and - if it goes ahead - wants it only to apply to those - you might not always have fancied Tomorrow's World or Newsnight, but it travelling from high risk countries. was interesting, and you did engage in the With over 57 countries banning travel now dying art of conversation. Besides, to and from the UK, one has to ask who's

Follow the Leader Israel shows us how.

there was always the 3 minute cartoon before the mid evening news: Klangers, Magic Roundabout, Captain Pugwash, Camberwick Green - beggars couldn't be choosers… And of course, you had to go to bed when the programmes came to an end, or when propelled by your parents. Our youngsters are paying a heavy price for our 24/7 media access, and for the families unable to manage the zoom and electronic requirements, nor the parental supervision demands, it might represent a second academic year of failure. I believe lockdown and homeschooling will last forever, or at least until Pesach. There you go, I've said it. Another seder table where we can wonder if we will see freedom. For the adults, a dream perchance - to travel further than the local shops and visit family, whilst our children will be dreaming of freedom from us.

NHS staff are offering leftover jabs to family and friends, claiming they prevent surplus doses going to waste. If there were any leftovers at my own surgery, literally 20 paces from my front door, I would have appreciated the offer. At the equally proximal vaccination hub in our street, young people have been seen queuing from the outset. By no stretch of the imagination can they have qualified as over 80s or over 70s, and this at a time when only group 1 were invited. I've asked about when I might reach the front of the queue, but am always told 'to wait,' as is grandma at 93. So for the perceivable future, I'm still waiting on the wrong side of the Wardrobe, with the Narnia vaccine wonderland remaining elusive and uninviting. Outrageously several high profile murderers are in line for early vaccination, including serial killer Levi Bellfield (52), currently being held at HMP Frankland. He feared for his life (!) after contracting the virus in December. Well, all I can say is he must have developed antibodies, so why are we rushing to provide him with a vaccine? Agreed prisoners, even loathsome murderers such as he, must be on the list, but surely not ahead of clinically vulnerable or the deserving elderly. I don't think we will ever be rid of the virus, and if we are, another dastardly version will take its place.

My own journey has thank G-d been uneventful thus far, aside from a bit of a temperature and an ever growing chest infection. After a week I had lost my sense of taste totally, just in time to abandon an incredible Friday night to those in my household with functioning taste buds.

For those of you wondering if loss of taste and smell is immediate, it isn’t, so you may think you have dodged that particular bullet, despite your temperature fluctuations or a possible cough. I knew the minute my palate failed to register chocolate, I was in deep trouble. It is a sad day indeed, when even my ginger tea tastes of pond water, and every delicious morsel of food tastes

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of cardboard {not that I can speak with authority on cardboard}. During the past week I took part in the cook-a-long with Denise. On the menu was Chicken Korma, which looked divine, but sadly there was no smell or taste on my side of the computer, so I have a nagging suspicion when my family do sit down to sample my (now frozen) concoction, it might be overpowering.

My thanks to Denise and all those sporting individuals who signed up for it, supporting me in the process. Friday night and shabbat arrived fully catered by my friend Doris - a gastronomic wizard. Seven happy individuals revelled in culinary nirvana, whilst I consoled myself with the fact covid had robbed me of this pleasure. Rotten bad luck to have picked up covid, although I can tell you two things you might still be able to taste: salt and sugar.

The other highpoint of the past week for our household has undoubtedly been the snow which graced our landscapes on Sunday past. I'm sure children across the country forgot their woes whilst rediscovering the benefits of fresh air and exercise.

We down here in London were probably envious of the proper winter snowfall seen further north, where presumably a decent igloo could be fashioned. From our minor snow flurry here in the UK over now to a serious winter's snow-down in Siberia.

Alexei Navalny is still in the headlines. A very, very ominous message was sent out by him from his Moscow prison, where he stated he had 'no intention of hanging himself from his cell, or impaling himself with a sharp object,' this to counter any attempt at foul play, intertwined with spurious notions of suicide on his part.

Tens of thousands of his supporters {protesters} took to the streets in Moscow and St Petersburg, to demand his release.

Further east, supporters in Yakutsk braved temperatures of -50°F to show solidarity with Navalny, with many of them throwing snowballs at the police. There were thousands of retaliatory arrests, for charges such as 'hooliganism' and 'violence towards police.' {I guess the snowballs were pretty hard, or the police were overly soft.} Navalny may not be every man's vodka but with Putin already having 20 years of brutal monopoly, and hanging on resolutely to power, change will not come easily.

A shocking story ends this week. Rachel Thorold (36) was out walking with her son Louis in his pram, when she was struck by a van involved in a collision. Ms Thorold, a mother of one, is now in intensive care at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, whilst Louis (5 months) died. Her husband said Louis, an IVF baby, was ‘5 years in the making.' He said Louis made them the ‘happiest people in the world.’ There are no words, and we pray that Rachel will make it.

Love Jacqueline x To follow Jacqueline’s journey blog {Yocheved bas Sara} please go to https://whenallissaidanddone.home.blog

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NEWS 25

26 BEHIND THE BUSINESS CARD

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Zack Creations

BY MICAELA BLITZ Any idea that involves chocolate is bound to be a good one and for Helen Zack it was a simple bar of chocolate that was the inspiration for starting her business, ZackCreations.

Back in 2007, she was given a chocolate bar at a BatMitzvah Party with a personalised wrapper. As someone with an artistic streak and creative mind, Helen felt that she could create something similar, and began working on some ideas of her own.

When a friend’s daughter had her 6th birthday party, Helen made personalised chocolate bars for all the guests. They were so well received by all that it encouraged her to develop her idea further into a proper business.

Word soon began to spread about Helen’s handiwork and as well as her personalised chocolate wrappers, she started looking at other things that she could personalise. Helen is able to design Fridge Magnets, Drink Coasters, Rulers, Keyrings amongst other things. Her creations can include names, messages and photographs which can be personalised for weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, parties, and pretty much any other celebration you could think of, for all age groups. She has even gone as far as creating customised trolley-token keyrings which can include images of loved ones. For wine connoisseurs, Helen has also designed wine bottle labels with names and images replicating the same font as the original for detail and to keep the authentic appearance but with that added personal touch.

As well as making fun items for celebrations, Helen has also used her creativity to produce something that is extremely useful for emergency situations in the form of personalised Emergency Keyrings which included the person’s name, brief details

of their condition and also a contact number to be used in case of emergencies. Her late father, Leslie Sherman, suffered for many years with Parkinson’s and through her own experiences and her involvement with the local Redbridge & Epping Forest Branch of Parkinson’s UK where she served as secretary and vice chairperson, she felt that this would be a simple yet effective way to help people who may be vulnerable or unable to communicate in case of an emergency.

Helen who lives in Chigwell, Essex is very well known in her area, not only for designs but for her work with Jewish Care, but her creations have travelled further afield to as far as Australia.

As she explains: “A lovely lady called Carin contacted me via Facebook looking for things for her son Ethan’s Barmitzvah she was organising. I was asked to make Personalised Neapolitan Parev Chocolates with pictures of the Barmitzvah Boy which I dispatched all the way to Down Under.” The client really loved them and gave Helen a great review saying what ‘an absolute pleasure’ she was to work with and the wonderful compliments she received, and how the Barmitzvah Boy was

‘absolutely thrilled when he saw them’.

As well as simchas, Helen has also designed items for corporate events including one of her biggest commissions for a retirement party for the CEO of Brakes (the food company). She was asked to make personalised chocolates and party poppers for all 820 guests. “That is one of the biggest orders I’ve had”, she comments, “and it was like a military procedure getting it all done, but we got there in the end. I made almost 2500 personalised chocolates and 820 personalised party poppers, and I loved every minute of making them.”

Helen enjoys being able to help clients with their specific needs and is always happy to speak to them to help find something that can be personalised and unique for their occasion/simcha. As she explains: “I am always looking for new and interesting things to personalise and I love coming up with ideas and designs to help make an event as special as possible, which is why my motto for my business is Making Memories Personal.”

If you would like to see more of her designs, check out Helen’s Facebook page – fb.com/ zackcreations or contact her by email on: helen@zackcreations.co.uk

If you are a businesswoman and would like to tell us more about your business, please contact Micaela - micaela@thejewishweekly.com THEJEWISHWEEKLY.COM

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COOKERY 27

Linguine with Sprouting Broccoli More delicious recipes from Denise Phillips For more recipes and inspiration visit my website: www.jewishcookery.com

This simple pasta dish is a great way to eat purple sprouting broccoli and is full of the fresh zingy flavours of chilli and lemon to pick you up midweek.

Poor man’s Parmesan, or pangrattato, is breadcrumbs fried with garlic and chilli. It’s traditionally used to sprinkle over pasta. You could also use it on salads, fish or chicken. Leave out the anchovies if you’re vegetarian.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time 15 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients 200g linguine (or use spaghetti) 4 tbsp olive oil, plus some for drizzling 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped 4 tbsp coarse breadcrumbs finely grated zest of ½ lemon ½-1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 200g purple sprouting broccoli, cut into even-sized pieces if large 3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped salt and pepper Method 1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the packet.

2. Meanwhile, gently heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a pan, add the garlic and breadcrumbs and stir until crispy. Stir in the lemon zest and chilli.

3. Steam or boil the broccoli for 4 minutes until tender.

4. Drain the pasta and stir in a good drizzle of olive oil and the parsley.

Toss with the broccoli and breadcrumbs. Season to taste.

Looking for a new pasta sauce?

BY DENISE PHILLIPS Working from home and home schooling means that a quick lunch or dinner is on the agenda and I am sure pasta features majorly on your menu – but are you fed up with the same sauce? Pasta sauces can make a delicious pasta dish and pasta lovers will be glad to know that there are as many sauces as they are pasta varieties - but the shape of pasta will determine the best sauce.

There are two main types of pasta - fresh and dried and two main shapes - short and long pasta forms. Fresh pasta cooks a lot quicker than dried pasta and larger pasta shapes work better with thick robust sauces, whilst skinny shapes like strands of spaghetti suit light cream sauces. The Italians would seldom serve a thick ragu sauce with thin pasta ribbons.

A pasta sauce does not need to be fussy or complicated to be good.

• The recipe below is ‘Linguine with sprouting broccoli’. I have made this numerous times slightly varying it with other vegetables. It is made with pan fried toasted breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and chopped chilli. Add grated or sliced courgettes, shredded Brussel sprouts or even kale with additional extras like capers and anchovies.

• Pesto is traditionally a basil sauce with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic and olive oil. Make use of other

fresh herbs or vegetables - kale, rocket, avocado, wild garlic, chives, roasted red peppers, spinach, pea, broad bean, and parsley make tasty alternatives.

Other nuts – walnuts, brazil, roasted hazelnuts add a tasty variation and colour to a classic sauce.

• Bolognaise sauce with spaghetti

can be made as a vegan alternative.

Quorn, dried mushrooms, chestnut mushrooms, lentils, carrots, onions, garlic, tinned tomatoes, soy sauce with a good bunch of fresh basil cooked over a gentle heat make a flavoursome sauce.

• Bean bolognaise made using a mix

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of borlotti, cannellini, pinto beans together with tomatoes, peppers, wine, celery, carrots, onions and garlic can certainly add extra protein to the pasta dish.

• Tomato Sauces are a classic –but make it easy! Roast chopped tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper on 150C for about 1 hour. Puree with some fresh basil and use.

• Cheese sauce made with a classic white sauce - butter, flour, hot milk and cheese. Make it different with chopped cooked vegetables such as broccoli, peas, peppers or spinach and add some chilli flakes.

• Mushroom sauce is a great favourite of mine. Using a variety of mushrooms both fresh and dried, garlic, white wine, cream and Parmesan is always a winner. Add truffle oil to drizzle on at the finish. (Truffle Hunters KLBD – make amazing Kosher truffle products including truffle salt, honey, and whole truffles!)

• Sicilian style pasta sauces include olives, raisins, tinned sardines, pine nuts, breadcrumbs, parsley, crushed chillies, and pine nuts – essentially using store cupboard ingredients makes a plain pasta dish a lot more exciting.

These are some many of the many variations of pasta sauces and I hope you will like my tips and options to make food at home more interesting and enjoyable.

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Eliminating Jealousy Part 2

21 JANUARY 2021

This article is part of a serialisation of the book ‘Go to Youself’ transformation through Jewish wisdom and Psychology’. The author Aryeh Sampson is a psychotherapist based in North London and counsel’s online. It combines approaches from psychotherapy and Jewish wisdom to address many psychological issues that modern man is faced. This includes overcoming anxiety, low self esteem, improving relationships and creating a greater sense of meaning and spirituality. need to eliminate the self-destructive traits (e.g., laziness, lack of confidence) which are at the root of the jealousy and replace these with positive traits. As with all previous examples of transformation, this is achieved through repeating positive actions until new habits are formed.

At the end of the Cain and Abel episode, God placed a mark on Cain and made him a wanderer. There is an opinion that this “mark” was a gift of a dog. The reason Cain was given a dog was to help him learn the true nature of giving and gratitude, as dogs have a giving and loyal nature. This was the trait Cain needed to internalize in order to overcome his selfish and jealous nature.

BY ARYEH SAMPSON

2(B): SPEECH

Sharing jealous thoughts and feelings confidentially with a supportive person can also help us see through our irrational thought and overcome the self-defeating behaviour which brought them about.

In therapy, Ben addressed the issue of his jealousy toward his wife, which was rooted in his experiences of rejection as a child. He shared in detail these early experiences and expressed the anger, sadness, and shame that he had experienced. This helped him to stop identifying himself with the shameful feelings and began to view himself in a more positive light. As a result, his self-esteem grew and his jealousy was reduced.

Sometimes, when we are going through a difficult time, the process of expressing these emotions can bring great relief. In other situations, when another person is doing something that makes us jealous, it can be helpful to speak to them directly about it to try to improve the situation.

2(C): ACTION

Jealousy can be considered an internal

communication which shows that a person is not fulfilled and wants more than he has.

A typical counterproductive response is to try to overcome these feelings by “keeping up with the Joneses.” This is never effective because if one catches up with the Joneses, he then discovers the Smiths, who have even more than the Joneses. There will always be someone who has more than he has.

Instead of trying to get more of what others have, we can use jealousy as a positive motivation to improve ourselves. As the Talmud teaches, “Jealousy between the Sages increases wisdom.”82 When the Sages felt jealous of each other’s spiritual attainments, they used it to motivate themselves to study more and to become wiser. When we are jealous of others — by using it as an incentive to better ourselves — we become more fulfilled within ourselves and consequently less jealous.

Daniella, a full time mother, experienced jealousy when she encountered working mothers. In therapy, it became clear that her jealousy was based on her belief that she felt she had accomplished too little in her life. From a young age, she had dreamed about creating projects to help the poor but had lacked the motivation

to do it. Now, Daniella used her jealousy to motivate herself to start to put her dreams into reality. She began to fundraise to help underprivileged children.

These acts of altruism imbued her life with a greater sense of fulfilment and helped her to alleviate her jealousy.

Giving to others and feeling responsible for them is particularly important in helping overcome jealousy, as it changes our focus from looking at others as competitors and threats to seeing them as friends who have their own needs.

Before my second child was born, my wife and I were concerned that our oldest child might feel jealous of the new baby. One piece of advice that we received was to give our eldest child a “job” as a helper to the new baby. She would have a new position of responsibility, and by giving to the baby she would not see him as a threat. Thank God it worked well.

STAGE 3: TRANSFORMATION

In this stage, we go beyond reducing our jealousy to changing our nature so that we no longer begin to feel jealous in the first place. How can we accomplish this? We

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When a person repeats acts of giving, he will, over time, become a more generous person. He will uproot the jealousy and free himself from it. He will then start to experience joy for the good fortune of others, instead of letting it diminish his happiness and create animosity.

A beautiful example of this is the relationship between Moses and his brother, Aaron. When Moses was chosen by God to lead the Jewish people out of Egypt, Aaron, who was Moses’s older brother, could have easily felt overshadowed and been jealous of Moses that he was not chosen for this mission. But in fact, Aharon is described as having “joy in his heart,” and was happy for Moses’s. God’s appointment of Moses only increased Aaron’s love for him. We, too, can find a new sense of joy and closeness to others when we transform our jealousy.

To receive a free download copy and newsletter, email aryeh.sampson@gmail. com. To purchase a hard copy go to www aryeh.sampson.com Jewish bookshops or amazon He also has a YouTube channel,’ Aryeh Sampson’ where he shares insights on a range of psychological issues. Aryeh can be contacted at aryeh.sampson@gmail.com.

For more information about counseling view www.ascounsellinginnorthlondon.co.uk

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NEWS 29

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30 HEALTH AND WELLBEING

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A question of how much

21 JANUARY 2021

BY DINA SPIELMAN Detox, diets and deprivation are usually the theme of this time of year. But who decided how much you should eat? Each diet or lifestyle plan has different rules, making it confusing to understand how much is the ‘right’ amount to eat.

The cereal box suggests 30g in a serving.

You could measure 30g into your bowl and that would then be the amount you will eat. But it does not account for your personal needs or preferences. So, you may still be hungry and want to eat quite soon after. Perhaps you may wait until the next meal and inevitably overeat, feeling stuffed and guilty. Alternatively, you could pour a random amount of the cereal into your bowl and eat until you have had enough, even pouring some more if not yet full, or leaving some behind in the bowl, according to your hunger level at the time.

This is letting your body decide how much to eat. Eating intuitively. We are all born with this skill of tuning in to our physiological cues of hunger, fullness and satisfaction. It may just need some digging out and uncovering.

Now for a bit of science (a tiny portion I promise). In the hypothalamus in our brain, nerve cells of appetite are triggered by a series of biological signals. These

After these two voices have been ignored and are shouting louder and louder, then when you do finally listen, it won’t be a sit down politely event, it will be a stand up shove it all in, guilt inducing situation. Not eating when hungry or not eating enough, leads to overeating later. Even a non dieter can eat more impulsively if eating is pushed off until ravenous. So how about you do something else - listen to your hunger!!

Studies have revealed that eating intuitively correlates to decreased overeating, emotional eating and binges. But there’s more, people eating according to their hunger, saw improvements in their insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.

So there are many benefits to learning how to tune in to your natural appetite cues. Primarily, knowing how much to eat.

Then, in response, your body can work well and keep you healthy. are coordinated according to our energy needs. So, what is often thought of as ‘willpower’ is actually a biological, natural drive!

Ghrelin, otherwise known as the hunger hormone, literally makes you feel hungry.

It further increases in response to food restriction. The more you ignore hunger, the more ghrelin is produced. This is purely

your biology driving you to eat. It’s not your fault that the diet failed, it’s not your lack of control, its simply your body trying to do its job and make you eat!!

Then there’s neuropeptide y, a neurotransmitter, primarily to rev up your appetite for carbohydrates. Similarly, the more you try to supress it, the stronger the craving gets.

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Dina Spielman is a qualified nutritionist (BSc Hons) and Intuitive Eating Counsellor helping people heal their relationship with food. She also works with parents regarding their children such as for picky eating, weaning, or mealtime struggles.

Dina can be contacted on dinaspielman1@gmail.com.

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A ray of sunshine through the clouds

BY ANNA BERGSON We have all had to try and find different ways to cope with the challenge of COVID and lockdowns.

Different communities and organisations have had to adapt provisions and be flexible to provide help and support. Plans can be made but then have to be adapted at the last minute to meet the ever evolving Government guidance.

All of our lives, routines and personal circumstances have had to change.

Pre-Covid I was just enjoying getting my fledgling Hypnotherapy and Holistic Health Practise off the ground. It’s been a

life-long passion of mine.

But as schools closed and children/my husband working from home that has had to go on the back burner.

With my other hat (or sheitel) on I am proud to be the Rebbetzen of the very special St Anne’s Community and I have tried to do my little bit to spread some cheer to some of our lonely and vulnerable members.

I try and live by the strong Torah principles such as ‘Ivdu Es Hashem B’Simcha’ (serve Hashem with joy), Gamzu L’Tovah (everything is for the best) and Gamzu Ya’avor (this too will pass).

I try my best to stay strong and healthy both physically and mentally. Getting

half an hour’s fresh air daily and drinking plenty of fresh water is a must.

But come this third lockdown and schools closing again, one dark and gloomy evening last week it finally got to me.

Constantly smoothing out the shalom bayis (peace and harmony in the home) out as children/teenagers struggle to try and find quiet space to study, the Rabbi with all his Zooms and phone calls, not to mention the kitchen becoming like Grand Central Station open 24/7... it’s no mean feat!

Just about hanging onto my ‘Keep calm and carry on’ attitude I checked my phone messages.

Out of the blue was an intriguing message from one of the school mums.

She was setting up a new group for any mums wanting to join. She said it’s such a horrible time for us all, let’s put all our judgements aside and support each other.

Each week you get a different mum to do something nice for eg send an encouraging message, small gift etc. All the names go into a pot so not only do you get a special someone to look out for, somebody else gets you because your name is also in the pot. My first thought was what a lovely idea but I couldn’t possibly join because I’ve got so many commitments and responsibilities as it is. But upon further reflection I thought of all the mums joining and the love I could possibly give and receive being a part of it.

We often hear the idea that to prevent burn-out we need to envisage ourselves

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING 31 as a jug. However much you give/pour out of the jug it is imperative we look after ourselves to prevent the jug drying out.

My ‘jug’ was in danger of becoming dripdry but just reading about this wonderful initiative was enough to fill my heart with joy and hope!

I anticipated all the mums I only know just to say hello to, but who I might now form a much deeper connection and relationship with.

Even the strongest people need support, love and empathy, being vulnerable sometimes is OK and reminds us we are only human after all.

During this pandemic with so much pain, suffering and despair on a global level it has been hard to remain positive and keep the faith.

There has been one thing though that has been a constant. Every single day the sun has risen in the east and it has set in the west.

Through nature Hashem reassures us He is in control. And if we look hard enough, we can see the sunshine through the clouds.

‘Beraishis 8:22 So long as the earth exists, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.’.

Anna Bergson is married to Rabbi Danny Bergson of St Anne’s Hebrew Congregation and they have five children.

Anna is also a Hypnotherapist and Holistic Health Practitioner.

32 MOTORING

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21 JANUARY 2021

Motoring: Honda CRV Hybrid Malcolm Ginsberg, our travel expert, continues with his series of road tests. The one time Lotus Public Relations Manager has been a trying a sports car to put the woes of 2020 behind him.

It may be one of the many innovations on the latest version of what is claimed to be the world’s bestselling SUV but what I found most useful was a digital speedometer. You may say that is daft but it is that kind of positive thinking by the engineer/designers that turns a good car into something that is really user friendly.

This may sound a minor function on a well laid out product but with the numbers coming up very clearly there is no need to search on the dial to see if you are travelling at 30 or 35mph. The police are very particular around our way!

Another novel idea was a sunglasses box above the rear-view mirror. It costs little but adds that something to the car.

The Honda CR-V has been around since 1995 and the latest offering is said to be the fifth generation and now is available in the UK as a hybrid, very fashionable as it gives a commitment to the environment and does not require a ‘plug-in’ facility. It is OK for manufacturers to espouse the virtues of their electric cars but for millions of us who are flat dwellers (and more and more are being built) there is the slight problem of charging.

At around 45mpg, and only available with a petrol engine, the figures are nothing special for quite a big car, although Honda would let us believe that 50mpg plus is available. With a 0-60 of 8.5sec it is no slouch and what used to be called the gearbox is now all micro controlled including the parking brake. Reverse is a simple pull-up. There is a sports mode too.

The road test car came in a front-wheeldrive form but there is a four-wheel-drive version available. Wheels are 18in throughout the model range.

As with all manufacturers Honda is always fiddling about with its house style and this latest CR-V is no exception, offering the latest distinctive body enhancements.

There is a vogue for larger wheel arches and Honda follows suit.

The highlight of the car has to be the powertrain. The hybrid system uses intelligent Multi Mode Drive technology (i-MMD) combining two electric motors, an Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, lithium-ion battery and a fixed-gear transmission to deliver high levels of refinement, responsiveness and efficiency. It is available in both FWD and AWD formats.

The engine automatically switches

The Honda CRV Hybrid

The Honda CRV Hybrid controls

The Honda CRV Hybrid interior

between three driving modes.

EV Drive, where the lithium-ion battery supplies power to the electric propulsion motor directly; Hybrid Drive, where the engine supplies power to an electric generator motor, which in turn supplies it to the electric propulsion motor; and Engine Drive, where the engine is connected directly to the wheels via a lock-up clutch. In most urban driving situations, the CR-V Hybrid

will shuffle between Hybrid Drive and EV Drive for optimum efficiency.

At a 40mph cruise, the CR-V Hybrid will typically run in EV Drive for more than half of the time. At 62mph the car will be in EV Drive for approximately one third of the time, whilst at the motorway legal limit (and upwards) the car will run in Hybrid Drive.

For the average driver all this means you do not have to think and the car does the work.

This all new CR-V has numerous improvements and changes including Honda’s next-generation ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure, employing a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly.

For the driver Honda Sensing comes as standard as an assistive technology combining radar and camera information.

Honda says that this latest CR-V has bigger and more responsive brakes and it certainly felt assured when required down some country lanes. Sitting that little bit higher up also helps.

With the top model there is a hands-free power tailgate enabling convenient loading access and this can be programmed to avoid contact with a low ceiling.

The loading bay has been increased by

STAR RATINGS

(out of 10) Performance..........................7 Handling.................................7 Transmission.........................8 Noise......................................7 Economy................................8 Ride and Comfort..................7 Accommodation.....................8 Styling.....................................7 Brakes....................................6 Finish......................................8 TOTAL............................... 73%

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160mm with a maximum loading length of 1,830mm. No problem for a 19.5-inch frame mountain bike.

The list of what we used to call ‘extras’ is extremely comprehensive and is partially shown here as an inventory. The only extras that the more expensive models have that are of real value (in my opinion) are the aforementioned tail gate, heated seats with memory (front and rear – keeps the kids happy) and a sun roof.

• Rear view camera • Remote retractable door mirrors • Exterior mirror tilt on reverse • Parking sensors (4x front, 4x rear) • Dual-zone climate control • 9 speakers and subwoofer and DAB radio with Bluetooth connectivity • 4x USB ports (2x front, 2x rear) • Electric, heated side mirrors • Honda Connect with 7in touchscreen for audio controls The market that Honda is in with the CR-V Hybrid is very competitive but with a quality interior, easy driving and sensible pricing the latest model sells well. Worth looking at.

From £30,810 www.honda.co.uk/cars/new/cr-v/overview. html

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Travel Incomparable Venice

TRAVEL 33

Aerial view of the Venice grand canal

BY MARCEL MANSON During this current Covid period, , I recall fondly an Invitation I received to Venice in 2017 from the organisation “Jewish Heritage Europe”. Venice is a unique, unchanging city, built on canals and hosting around 50 museums within its beautiful buildings. The city is famous in the Jewish World for having the original recognisable ghetto still accessible and separate from the rest of Venice.

I was aware of the 500th Anniversary of the Venice Ghetto commemorations that took place a year before on the weekend of 30th March 2016. Over this period the main exhibition took place in Doge’s Palace in Piazzo San Marco whilst concerts were hosted in the famous Opera House.

As part of the programme a grand open air theatrical production of Shakespeare’s ‘The Merchant of Venice’ was held in the Ghetto Square with an international cast including the late US Supreme Court Judge Ruth Bader Ginsberg. The production is fantastic to watch and can be viewed on YouTube by searching: Justice for Shylock: A Mock Appeal Commemorating the 500th Anniversary of the Venice Ghetto.

So, In October 2017, I took up their invitation and attended the 3 day conference entitled “JEWISH HERITAGE TOURISM IN THE DIGITAL AGE” hosted by The Rothschild Foundation & Beit Venezia. Of course, the conference itinerary included an arrival day tour of the Ghetto, Jewish museum and Synagogues and a final day tour of the Venice Jewish cemetery dating back to the 14th century. To access the Jewish Cemetery our group had to travel on 2 Vaporetto’s [taxi boats] to visit the ancient sacred grounds. Over the next few days the main part of the conference was held at the communities function room at Sala Montefiore and at the Ghimel Garden kosher restaurant located within the famous Campa del Ghetto Nuovo quarter.

Matters discussed during the conference were subjects like slow tourism.

Whilst unthinkable in today’s climate, due to the impact of congestion in previous years, cities such as Venice, Prague and Paris had become so overrun with tourists that pre-booking of famous sites and museums during busy time had become vital. As a consequence Venice at festival time introduced 1 way walking zones whilst in Prague the city was considering

doing the same between the main square and Charles Bridge. This was deemed urgent to reduce the congestion caused by increasing tourists numbers clogging the streets of the city. I personally witnessed this on my first day in Venice when walking to the Rialto Bridge at sunset hoping to experience the delightful view of that famous bridge with its gondolas in the grand canal. However with hordes of tourists standing twenty deep taking camera stick selfies, this made for a joyless encounter.

Venice is blessed with kosher restaurants and patisseries with shops selling kosher products including the Chabad operated Gam Gam restaurant in Calle Ghetto Vecchio that leads from the canal to the Ghetto. There is also a Kosher House Hotel in Giardino dei Melograni. Organised tours of the Synagogues are available from the Jewish Museum in Ghetto Piazza and be sure to join one of the now popular ‘Foodie’ guided tours of the Jewish quarter and the neighbouring Cannaregio quarter that visit interesting sites and stories from famous former residents whilst enjoying drinks and tapas type snacks.

Of course as Venice is a pedestrian only,

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car free city, one is encouraged to walk and crossing over bridges with the site of gondolas and boats cruising the vast canal network is sure to offer a wonderful experience., especially at quieter times.

The Santa Lucia train station is only a ten minute walk from the Ghetto and is really busy with daily visitors who stay inland at the cheaper hotels in Venice Mestre a 20 minute ride away. Or indeed less than 30 minutes away is Padova which is a delightful city and has its own Synagogue and Jewish Museum. If you are considering a more relaxing visit then there are comfortable or luxury hotels on Venice Lido just 1 hour away with many hotels containing spas and swimming pools which would allow you to combine luxury & relaxation, yet being close to the culture & history of Venice.

West End Travel/Jewish Heritage Tours are planning a 4 night trip staying in Padua at the end of this year including 2 days of organised tours in Venice. If you are interested in joining the trip contact Marcel on 07712290520 or marcel.manson@westendtravel.co.uk

34 JUDAISM

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ASK THE RABBI

Looking for answers? Send your question to Rabbi@RabbiSchochet.com IS IT EVER RIGHT TO GET DRUNK? Dear Rabbi So with lockdown has also come some extra drinking. While I, like many others, enjoy a tipple, I was wondering whether in the Jewish religion, it is ever considered acceptable to get drunk.

Philip Dear Philip There is a story in the Torah that talks about the two sons of Aharon, the High Priest, who entered into the Sanctuary in an inebriated state. While at first glance we would assume that they were just plain drunk, one of the classic commentaries, Rabbi Chaim Ibn Attar (Ohr HaChaim HaKodosh 18c) explains these two men, Nadav and Avihu going into the Sanctuary in an inebriated state as having been a spiritual aspiration. By definition, they had climbed as high as they could within the confines of their own physical limitations. As a result of drinking wine they were able to remove whatever remaining inhibitions in order to experience an ultimate expiration of the soul (kloyos hanefesh) and thereby cleave to the Divine.

Rabbi Yishaya HaLevi Horowitz (Shaloh HaKodosh 16c) also explains in this same context how many great Rabbis would drink significant quantities of wine on Shabbat, in order to achieve a similar objective. Our ancient Sages taught, Nichnas yayin yatza sod – “when wine goes in out comes the secrets. A direct result of the drinking would enable these Rabbis to expand their intellectual horizons and

share more spiritual wisdom with their students.

In a similar vein, the Lubavitcher Rebbe offers a compelling explanation on the famous Talmudic story of Rabba and Reb Zairah drinking copious amounts of wine on Purim to the point where Rabba “slaughtered” Reb Zaira. The Rebbe explains this as relating to a spiritual experience endured

by Reb Zairah - an expiration of the soul akin to that of Nadav and Avihu.

The common theme in all of this is that drinking can get one “spiritually high” as well. The term drunk implies loss of intellectual faculties, sometimes to destructive ends. That surely is of no benefit or value and must be frowned upon. But if the physical high indeed releases deeper spiritual yearnings and aspirations, then make mine a double. L’chaim.

DOES G-D CARE ABOUT TEABAGS? Dear Rabbi Of all the problems affecting the Jewish community, the Jewish Weekly chose to publish a debate on the use of tea bags on Shabbat. Does anyone believe that the Almighty is concerned with such trivia?

Ian Dear Ian Though you wrote this letter of “complaint” to the editor, it’s been passed to me to clarify. The “trivia” as you describe it, is not for G d; it’s for us. G d wants us to be close to Him, and this is the path He gives us. G d wants

Pirkei Avot .‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ִר ָּמה‬,‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ָב ָׂשר‬,‫אֹומר‬ ֵ ‫הּוא ָהיָ ה‬ ,‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה נָ ִׁשים‬.‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ְד ָאגָ ה‬,‫ַמ ְר ֶּבה נְ ָכ ִסים‬ .‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה זִ ָּמה‬,‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ְׁש ָפחֹות‬.‫ַמ ְר ֶּבה ְכ ָׁש ִפים‬ ‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה‬,‫תֹורה‬ ָ ‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה‬.‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה גָ זֵ ל‬,‫ַמ ְר ֶּבה ֲע ָב ִדים‬ ‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה‬.‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ָח ְכ ָמה‬,‫יבה‬ ָ ‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה יְ ִׁש‬.‫ַחּיִ ים‬ ‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה‬,‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ְצ ָד ָקה‬.‫ ַמ ְר ֶּבה ְתבּונָ ה‬,‫ֵע ָצה‬ ‫ ָקנָ ה לֹו‬.‫ ָקנָ ה לְ ַע ְצמֹו‬,‫ ָקנָ ה ֵׁשם טֹוב‬.‫ָׁשלֹום‬ :‫ ָקנָ ה לֹו ַחּיֵ י ָהעֹולָ ם ַה ָּבא‬,‫תֹורה‬ ָ ‫ִד ְב ֵרי‬ He used to say: The more flesh, the more worms; The more property, the more anxiety; The more wives, the more witchcraft; The more female slaves, the more

the closeness of a relationship.

It’s not that He wants to intimidate and frighten us by making so many demands of us. He gives us a path to Him, and He says: “If you follow this path, you’ll find Me.” Think about it: What makes a good marriage? Obviously, there are a few things that are essential such as mutual respect, concern, patience etc. But what about the little things? In a healthy marriage each thinks of ways to please the other, usually with the little things. He might buy her little gifts once in a while. He might offer to look after the kids for a couple of hours a week. She might cook his favourite dinner once in a while. They might go out for dinner every so often. Both might take a moment to smile at each other even when feeling tired and irritable.

These are the small stuff that are really the building blocks of a relationship. It means they really care for each other and want to do things for each other. And so it is in our relationship with G-d as well. It’s not just the big stuff, but every bit, and even more so, in the small stuff. When we are being conscientious about the small things - what you might consider to be trivia – then it focuses our minds on G-d and enhances our relationship with Him. Rabbi Shlomoh of Karlin (1738-1892) would tell a parable.

There was a king who used to collect crumbs of food and take them away. Whenever he saw someone eating he would gather the leftover crumbs of their meal. No one understood why. One day, a neighbouring king came with an army and

besieged the capital city. His army encamped around the walls of the city, and blocked off all food imports. Not long afterwards, obviously, the people ran out of food, and no one could obtain anything to eat. But help came from an unexpected source. The king opened his warehouses, and made available all the crumbs he had collected over the years. There was so much food that the people of the capital city outlasted the besieging army, and after a while, the enemy army folded camp and

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

For a refuah Shalema for Yitzchak Refoel Chaim ben Rifka lewdness; The more slaves, the more robbery; [But] the more Torah, the more life; The more sitting [in the company of scholars], the more wisdom; The more counsel, the more understanding; The more charity, the more peace. If one acquires a good name, he has acquired something for himself; If one acquires for himself knowledge of Torah, he has acquired life in the world to come.

This Mishnah is packed full of great advice from Hillel like a full suitcase!

Most people strive mightily through life to earn money.

All of the secular school system is built around getting into a good university to earn a good wage. As well as paying basic bills most people dream of having loads of possessions! Yet all it does is cause worry. The more one has, the more there is to worry about.

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returned to their own country.

What saved them? The collected crumbs. All these crumbs eventually made up enough food to feed a nation for years.

Every time someone does some little mitzvah, even with teabags on a Shabbat, G-d collects those as He does each and every little tiny act of Halachic observance. He cherishes each act, however trivial we might presume them to be, and ultimately it accumulates for our benefit, both here and in the hereafter.

Perek 2: Mishna 7 Now this doesn’t mean one should strive to be a pauper - on the contrary we say elsewhere in Pirkei Avot that you must earn a living or you will end up neglecting the Torah and stealing!

But take everything in proportion. Don’t end up like the worlds richest man who has unbelievable estates everywhere yet barely until recently gave a penny to charity.

By increasing charity, world peace will come and ultimately Mashiach too.

Amen.

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Torah from Israel

28 JANUARY 2021

Judaism is Like an onion

BY RABBI MOSHE TARAGIN Az Yashir – the epic “song at the sea” is suffused with classic and evocative phrases. Many of these expressions are familiar to us from the recital of this section during daily Shacharit. By contrast, the concluding phrase of this poem is a very succinct and straightforward “slogan”- certainly less poetic and less colourful than earlier phrases. Having sung about Divine intervention and the defeat of our hated but feared enemies, the Jews finally affirm acceptance of God’s authority through the four words of “Hashem yimloch l’olam va’ed”- God will reign for eternity.

A midrash documents God’s remarks about this four-word declaration: In a conversation with God, Moshe wonders about God’s unending interest or focus upon the Jews. God replies that His “attraction” to Jews stems from their pronouncement of this four-word affirmation. These simple four words were so ‘gratifying’ to God precisely because they were so direct and unadorned. At this stage of history, close to 2500 years after Creation, a community of humans finally accepted Divine authority. For two and half millennia Man lived in theological chaos, unable to discern a creator, establish a moral baseline or accept Heavenly authority. Finally, at this crossing of the sea, having been liberated from Egypt, the Jews were first to embrace Divine authority and introduce God into the human experience. This simple unembellished declaration is a ground-breaking milestone in religious history.

What makes this verse - uttered at the banks of the swirling sea - so iconic? After all, a few weeks later, the Jews would stand beneath the “mountain of religion” and heartily embrace Torah and six hundred and thirteen commandments?

Shouldn’t the Sinai announcement attract greater Divine attention? Presumably, the enthusiastic embrace of religion and of commandments far supersedes any announcements at the sea! The Jewish embrace of Divine authority at the sea is noteworthy, but why does it serve as a milestone and a pivot of our relationship with God? Why does God love the Jewish people specifically because we voiced this four-word anthem?

In truth, this four-word phrase comprises an important ‘layer’ of Jewish identity.

Judaism isn’t a one-dimensional belief system, but incorporates various tiers of belief and commitment. We all strive for a

comprehensive system incorporating all the elements of Judaism, but we certainly acknowledge the value of even partial Jewish identity. Essentially, Jewish belief can be broken down into three elements – each of which can be associated with an important date along the time line from 15 Nissan to 6 Sivan. On the 15th of Nissan, we departed Egypt, were liberated from 210 years of slavery, and coalesced as a nation. A week later we crossed the ocean, sang to God and designated Him as supreme authority. Six weeks later, we stood at the mountain of Sinai, embracing Torah and submitting to Divine commandments.

Complete Jewish identity demands adherence to each of these historical events and their respective religious modules. A complete Jew possess a profound sense of Jewish history and nationhood, accepts Divine authority, and translates that acceptance into religious observance and Torah commitment. A full Jew advances along the ‘time line’: from Jewish nationhood, toward embracing Divine authority, and, finally, toward submission to Torah ritual. As a culmination the Sinai experience incorporates all three components of Jewish identity.

Unfortunately, many Jews- especially in the modern world - no longer exhibit classic mitzvah observance. For various reasons, many Jews have abandoned the commitments of Har Sinai. Some “fully religious” Jews view this abandonment as complete betrayal; how can Jewish identity exist in the absence of a life of Torah and commandments? However, in reality, Judaism is not an “all or nothing proposition”. The overwhelming majority of Jews who may not fully practice normative halacha, none the less, still recognize God as Creator and, as ultimate Authority.

Their relationship with God remains a powerful rivet of their lives despite their lesser commitment to the world of Torah and religious ritual. Some Jews may have veered from the echo of Har Sinai, but they are very much still standing at the ocean banks declaring, in their own way, “God will reign eternal” Though these types of Jews exist across the globe, they are especially prominent in Israel where they constitute the majority of the non-religious society- many of whom still bear an underlying embrace of Divine authority. Their Shabbat experience is a perfect microcosm of a Judaism which accepts Divine authority without

Just as many Jews have abandoned Har Sinai, many have also abandoned the declaration of Divine authority at the ocean crossing. translating this concept into absolute halachik fidelity. Many ‘chiloni’ Jews (or, as some would term them ‘masorati”) will religiously attend classic Shabbat prayers and even conduct Shabbat meals but will not maintain halachik Shabbat conduct in a consistent fashion. We certainly aspire to more – in ourselves and all Jews, but we should not trivialize the value of this powerful form of Jewish identity. It may not encompass all layers of religious identity, and this approach may abandon many of the mandates of Sinai, but this form of Jewish character is still a remnant of the seaside declaration in our parsha.

Just as many Jews have abandoned Har Sinai, many have also abandoned the declaration of Divine authority at the ocean crossing. Many Jews do not live with a continuous presence of God in their lives.

Even those who admit God into their lives do not regard Him as an unconditional Authority. Yet, many Jews who retain a very distant or nebulous sense of God still possess a powerful sense of Jewish mission. They live with a compelling sense that we are a select (if not chosen people) who are responsible to uphold moral conscience in our world. So many secular Jews have been instrumental in advancing human welfare and social equality in the

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modern era. Our belief in “tikkun ha’olam” has positioned many Jews at the forefront of developments which have radically improved the human experience. This sense of moral responsibility, even when it is severed from a Divine mandate, is still a residue of our founding fathers and their program for humanity. Though they were immersed in a morally confused world, our ancestors lived deeply moral lives and introduced humanity to a God who cared about human welfare and who desired the improvement of the human condition.

So many Jews across the globe, bereft of Sinai submission, and disinterested in the ocean embrace of Divine authority, still orient their Jewish lives around these ancient Jewish missions. Though these lifestyles represent an incomplete version of Judaism, the values themselves should be accredited and the manner in which Jewish identity is reinforced should be acknowledged. Judaism, like an onion, has many, many layers.

Rabbi Moshe Taragin is a rabbi at Yeshivat Har Etzion/Gush, a hesder yeshiva. He has smicha and a BA in computer science from Yeshiva University as well as a masters degree in English literature from the City University of New York.

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Weekly Dvar Torah FR O M ER ETZ Y I S RA E L

Shirat HaYam: The Triumphant Song of the Sea

BY DR. YAEL ZIEGLER The song that Israel sings at the sea (Shirat Hayam) offers an enduring glimpse into Israel’s state of mind as they internalize the great miracles that have taken place.

The song expresses jubilation, excitement, and awe as the newly emancipated nation proclaims of G-d’s deeds and uniqueness.

Surprisingly, however, only the first half of the song relates to the recent events.

Shemot 15:1-11 describes the drowning of the Egyptian army, the splitting of the sea, and the mighty victory of G-d over Pharaoh. The second half of the song (Shemot 15:12-18) addresses a different subject entirely. Rather than dwelling longer on the events at the sea, the song turns its attention to the nation’s movement to the land of Israel, the installation of Israel in its land, and the establishment of the Temple.

Despite its past tense, Ibn Ezra (on Shemot 15:13) observes that this second section of the song looks toward the future. G-d guides Israel to His sacred pasture in verse 13, which Rashbam and

Bechor Shor both agree is the land of Israel. (Ramban maintains that this refers to the Temple. Ibn Ezra posits that the sacred pasture is Sinai, a critical stop in their journey toward the land.) This causes the nations proximate to the land of Israel (Philistines, Edom, Moab, Canaanite nations) to tremble in panic and fear of G-d (Shemot 15:14-15). In verse 16, Israel crosses over into the land (Rashbam posits that the verb ya’avor indicates the nation’s passage over the Jordan River), where the nation then strikes roots on the mountain of G-d’s inheritance, namely the place of the Temple (Shemot 15:17).

How easily and seamlessly this song transitions us from one event to the next!

No sooner does Israel emerge from the perils of the encroaching Egyptian army than the nation turns its attention to the

next lofty goal, bound for the land of Israel.

But the nation whose eyes are upon its future is a very different sort of nation than the one that was so recently gazing backward toward the sea. In the first part of the song, the focus is on God’s might against the Egyptian enemy. The Israelite nation seems to be made up of static bystanders, who watch the events passively as they unfold, reacting with reverence and joy.

When Israel looks toward the future, the nation becomes central and dynamic; proactive rather than reactive. It is the other nations who react, watching from the sidelines as Israel assumes its role at the center of history. This second part of the song is surrounded by the phrase am zu, “this nation,” which appears in verses 13 and 16. “This nation” glides ineluctably

When Israel looks toward the future, the nation becomes central and dynamic; proactive rather than reactive.

toward kedusha, holiness, a word which also appears at the beginning and end of the song’s second section (in verses 13 and 17). Israel’s future is defined as a journey toward sanctity, which will begin to take shape as the nation enters the holy land.

It turns out then, that the Song of the Sea is not solely about the splitting of the sea, nor does it primarily express gratitude for Israel’s emancipation from the power of Egypt. The song looks backwards at a past defined by passivity, and forward toward a future in which Israel actively shapes its destiny. It represents both the end of Israel’s prolonged slavery and the beginning of the road to nationhood. Most significant of all, this song marks Israel’s movement from the sidelines of world history to its upcoming central role in the world. When they sing the song at the sea, Israel’s task has only just begun.

Dr. Yael Ziegler is a lecturer in Bible at Herzog Academic College and at Matan Jerusalem. She is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/ speakers).

A Torah bite for the Shabbat table

Succeeding in spiritual warfare RABBI GOODMAN Parshas Beshalach includes several stunning miracles testifying to Hashem’s absolute control of the world and its affairs.

Nowadays, however, Hashem has chosen not to reveal Himself through supernatural phenomena (aside from Denmark winning the European Cup in 1992 despite failing to qualify), rather through the Jewish People’s allegiance and devotion to His will.

Although “Allegiance and devotion to His will” sounds straightforward, its fulfilment is not. Like paratroopers, Hashem has deliberately dropped our Neshamos behind enemy lines, charged with the formidable task of keeping Torah and Mitzvos in a hostile environment. The enemy, our physical nature, fights tooth and nail to drive out our Neshamos, unleashing a barrage of missiles that put Hamas to shame.

As any “gamer” will tell you (if he notices you waiting to speak to him), military strategy and tactics are essential to the conduct of effective warfare. An army that lacks planning and coordination may as well stay home. This basic principle especially applies to spiritual warfare. The Yetzer

Hara – our “evil inclination” – remains the greatest warrior and formidable opponent of all time.

Thankfully though, we possess the Torah – the only reliable source of spiritual warfare strategy. At the beginning of this week’s Parsha we find an ingenious plan of action against the Yetzer Hara, utilized by Hashem Himself.

When Hashem liberated the Jewish People from Egypt, instead of leading them directly to their destination, He led them along an indirect route through perilous terrain. Unusually, the Torah explains Hashem’s reasoning for this manoeuvre: He knew that as soon as Bnei Yisroel faced any threat of war or hardship they were liable to about-turn and head straight back to Egypt. Therefore, Hashem deliberately navigated them along a route that was both

difficult and dangerous to retrace.

Rabbi Yaakov Yisroel Kanievsky (18991985), known simply as The Steipler, explains that Bnei Yisroel needed supernatural strength to overcome their raw fear and not run back to Egypt; strength they did not necessarily possess. Therefore, to make matters easier, Hashem imbued their escape route with an equal level of fear and complication. He established an equilibrium of circumstances, thereby maintaining Bnei Yisroel’s freewill and enabling them to choose the right path. Incredibly, Hashem took advantage of Bnei Yisroel’s weakness to protect them from their own weakness.

The Steipler strongly recommends employing this innovative strategy in our own lives. We have more chance of stopping an avalanche than stopping the Yetzer Hara in full flow. Instead, we must learn

Hashem has deliberately dropped our Neshamos behind enemy lines, charged with the formidable task of keeping Torah and Mitzvos in a hostile environment.

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to undermine our Yetzer Hara with its own vulnerability. By employing this strategy and with Hashem’s help we stand a fantastic chance of protecting ourselves from spiritual devastation and instead emerging victoriously and triumphantly. .

A project of My Dvar Torah, Torah Bite is your resource for a short, dynamic, and meaningful Dvar Torah to share at the Shabbos table. Originally from London, Rabbi Ben Goodman has spent 20 years in Jerusalem, teaching and inspiring students from all backgrounds and from all over the world. He is the director of My Dvar Torah, providing tailor-made Divrei Torah for all occasions. www.mydvartorah.com.

He encourages feedback & ideas: ben@mydvartorah.com

38 JUDAISM

Beshalach RABBI DR RAYMOND APPLE

DESTINED TO DIVIDE

The people of Israel crossed the Red Sea on dry land with Pharaoh in pursuit. They got across before the waters came rolling back and the king and his chariots were caught up in the destruction (Ex. 14:26). The events are related poetically in Chapter 15 of Sh’mot.

People who read the story wonder why the Israelites needed to go that way. A detour might have obviated the crossing of the water, so why did they go straight ahead?

The Midrash says that it was God’s plan from the time of Creation that the sea should be there and the Israelites should cross it. The sea was destined to divide so that Israel could cross before the waters returned.

The people had to experience the miracle of the splitting of the sea so they should never harbour any doubt that God wanted them to leave Egypt.

They could have taken a different – easier – route, but then they might have simply thought in earthly terms. Their experience persuaded them that the plans were made

by God and they were a miracle-people with a miracle-destiny.

MIRACLES & ENCOUNTERS

There are two songs associated with this

TO ADVERTISE CALL 020 3906 8488 Shabbat – the Song of the Red Sea in the Torah reading and the Song of Deborah in the Haftarah. They are both dramatic examples of Hebrew poetry.

The Song of the Sea in particular has a firm place in Jewish emotion. But there is a solid theological reason for its importance.

It tells us two main things: Miracles can happen, and history is the product of encounters between cultures and peoples.

Let us look at each idea separately. The first is that miracles can happen. They seem logically impossible, but – as Maimonides says in the Guide to the Perplexed 3:24 – they prove that the impossible is also possible.

The second theme is that history is the cumulative result of encounters with other cultures and peoples. Dubnow says, “The history of the Jewish people is like an axis crossing the history of mankind from one of its poles to the other”.

BONES & THE COMMANDMENTS

The Torah says (Ex. 13:19) that Moses and the Israelites took the bones of Joseph with them when they left Egypt.

Solomon’s Mishlei tells us that “The wisehearted will receive mitzvot” (Prov. 10:8).

The Midrash comments, “This is Moses – the people were busy with material things but Moses occupied himself with bones.”

What have bones and commandments to do with each other?

There is a play on words – “atzmot” (bones) and “mitzvot” (commandments).

There is a deeper connection if you think of the character of Joseph. When Potiphar’s

wife tried to seduce him, Joseph knew that some things were transgressions of the commandments.

As a wisehearted man, Joseph took the commandments on himself and his good character was remembered and rewarded

by Moses.

WHY DID THEY WANT TO STAY?

More than once Moses had to coax the people into moving forward.

We know of their mutiny against life in the wilderness when they wanted to go back to Egypt. But even earlier there was a problem.

It seems from Ex. 14:15 that they did not want to budge once they had crossed the Red Sea and encamped at Sinai.

The Midrash asks what made the people reluctant to go any further. Surely they knew they were on the way to destiny! Surely they wanted to settle down in the Promised Land as a nation with its own way of life! What was the attraction of the wilderness?

The answer the Midrash offers is to the people’s credit. They had had a remarkable emotional and spiritual experience. Crossing the Red Sea was exhilarating. Standing at Mount Sinai was inspiring. They wanted the great experience never to end.

We are all like that from time to time. Like Christopher Robin who wanted to stay six forever and ever, we have moments when we are on a high and wish it would never end.

But the Israelites had to move into the wilderness, as we have to move back into day to day living.

We all have to come down from the

28 JANUARY 2021 mountain top and face life on the ground.

We have to move into the sometimes harsh world and face its challenges.

In “This is my God” (p.54), Herman Wouk relates that the Vilna Gaon once asked the Dubner Maggid to tell him his faults.

The maggid at first declined. When the Gaon pressed him, he at last spoke somewhat like this: “Very well. You are the most pious man of our age. You study day and night, retired from the world, surrounded by the rows of your books, the Holy Ark, the faces of devout scholars. You have reached high holiness. How have you achieved it?

“Go down in the marketplace, Gaon, with the rest of the Jews. Endure their work, their strains, their distractions. Mingle in the world, hear the scepticism and irreligion they hear, take the blows they take. Submit to the ordinary trials of the ordinary Jew. “Let us see then if you will remain the Vilna Gaon!” They say the Gaon broke down and wept.

There are times for high holiness, but there are times to stand in the marketplace and hold onto your faith, dignity, ethics and honesty when other forces push and pull you hither and thither.

The Torah is not for ministering angels in the rarefied atmosphere of heaven, but for ordinary people facing dilemmas on earth.

Rabbi Apple served for 32 years as the chief minister of the Great Synagogue, Sydney, Australia’s oldest congregation. He is now retired and lives in Jerusalem. Rabbi Apple blogs at http://www.oztorah.com

Chovat Halevavot Hilchot Shabbat

In the previous column, we set out the seven conditions that are usually fulfilled which enable a person to trust in their fellow. Chovot Halevavot now explains that thes can only truly be found in G-d and not in mankind.

1. No human being can be considered to be as merciful as Hashem. If you see a person who acts mercifully this is only due to their G-dly nature. It is Hashem who endows us with the attribute of mercy.

2. G-d does not ever shy away from doing what is for our ultimate benefit.

3. Only G-d is invincible. No human being can claim to be.

4. None of our needs (or desires) are hidden from G-d.

5. Only Hashem accompanies a person from their youth to their old age and has an ongoing interest in their wellbeing – forever. Chovot Halevavot cites verses in Torah and Tehillim which draw the comparison between Hashem and a parent upon whom one relies.

6. O nly Hashem can protect us from evil forces and harm; no one else can protect us from every imaginable trouble.

7. The extent of G-d’s kindness upon all creatures, is obviously beyond comparison.

Only Hashem could have arranged for there to be a form of sustenance for every creature on the planet!

Despite the fact that the author cites numerous verses that prove his points, he writes that it is obvious to any thinking person that what causes us to rely on people is erroneous as all the causes to rely on others only truly apply to Hashem.

Once a person internalises the above and recognises that it is only worthwhile to place one’s full trust in Hashem alone, then they will accept what He sends their way and allow themselves to feel safe in His hands, knowing that all that happens is for their good. It may not be easy to internalise at first, but one should be aware of the concept.

As previously discussed, a Keli Rishon is considered to have the ability to cook raw foods.

Another item with this ability is a Davar Gush - a hot solid (hot meaning at the temperature of Yad Soledet Bo). This means if one has a hot potato or piece of meat sitting on a plate, one should not pour cold gravy onto it. Nor should one pour spices or cream etc onto a hot potato.

However, it is permitted to pour salt on hot potatoes and to pour ketchup on a piece of hot meat.

The reasons that ketchup may be “cooked” through the hot solid is, as explained by Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, (1) the ketchup is not significantly different whether it heats up or not and (2) ketchup (which is precooked) has a law of a “dry food” item and therefore is not subject to the prohibition of re-cooking, (despite the juice contained within the tomatoes).

Hot Kugel is likewise considered a hot food and therefore it may be best to avoid placing a cucumber for example on it.

However, Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach was not concerned about it as the person does not care if the cucumber is thereby “cooked”, especially considering that

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the plate upon which the hot food is, is generally a Keli Shelishi. If it is a “pre cooked” pickled cucumber, it is certainly permitted.

One should be careful when removing a hot pot from the fire, not to place it onto a wet surface.

Rinsing hot boiled eggs under a tap is permitted and we are not concerned about the water being cooked by the egg. However, one should not place a hot egg into a cup containing cold water.

Disclaimer: This column generally follows the Halachic view of the Shemirat Shabbat k’Hilchasa as well as Rabbi Falk and their contemporaries. It is known that there are other Halachic views on many matters and therefore this column is mostly to bring awareness of the issues and if one feels the Halacha may apply differently to them, they should consult their local Orthodox rabbi.

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More than meets the eye

BY BRYNA COHEN I like to prep my husband before I inform him of undesirable news. For example, the other day I lost ten dollars.

‘I’ve got bad news for you,’ I told him.

‘What happened?’ He asked.

I paused. ‘Don’t get too angry.’

He looked at me, questioningly. ‘Sinks are blocked again?’

‘No, no,’ I assured him.

‘Something broke? Someone hurt himself?’

I shook my head.

‘What?’ He insisted.

‘I lost ten dollars.’ I dared to look up at him for a moment.

He let out his breath. ‘Oh, Baruch Hashem, that’s it. You had me scared for a moment.’

I smiled to myself. It’s a good tactic.

Hashem Himself played this same trick on me. After my third child was born I waited eagerly for the moment he would move from staring at the lights to gazing directly into my eyes - that miraculous spark of intelligence, of social awareness, and most importantly, of sight. I waited three weeks, then four. At six weeks he began to smile, but I was anxious for him to smile and to gaze at me.

‘Sometimes it takes until three months,’ my mother assured me, when after two he still didn’t focus. But I knew; something was wrong.

I took him for his regular development checkup at two and a half months. Nurse Linda spent a long time passing a paper

with an eyes, nose and mouth slowly in front of Eli’s face. I hovered nearby, hoping to be assured, but certain my concern was about to be validated.

Eventually, Linda put the paper down.

She clapped her hands, loudly and sharply. My baby jumped.

Well,’ Linda laughed. ‘He can definitely hear.’

I smiled, but my insides twisted painfully.

Linda looked at me intensely. ‘I’m not a doctor. I can only advise you. You need to follow up with this - take him to a children’s eye doctor as soon as you can.’ She tapped her glossy nails on the wooden desk. ‘He doesn’t need to focus at two months, but he should definitely be following a paper with his eyes.’

During supper that evening my husband and I desperately swung the small bear and monkey hanging on Eli’s baby chair in front of his eyes. Our baby smiled and gurgled, but looked everywhere except toward our dancing creatures. To us it was clear; he couldn’t see. *** We waited and waited and waited some more. I spent the time observing the other patients playing with the variety of toys.

Most had glasses. I decided secretly which colors and styles I liked the most. Finally we were called into the doctor’s assistant’s room.

‘Why are you here?’ She asked.

I briefly described that although Eli gazes at light, he doesn’t focus or seem to be able to see anything else at all.

The optician picked Eli up and held him with outstretched arms, cooing to him.

Then she observed him while Eli sat on my lap. She asked us a few more questions. Finally she took a pad of paper and scrawled a few words. I noticed, amongst others, nystagmus and albinism.

I had spoken to my regular pediatrician before going to this appointment with the eye doctor. He had mentioned the possibility of nystagmus, although I was ignorant as to what the condition is. I had also heard of Albinism. I was sure that that is a condition where someone has extremely pale hair and skin. What on earth could that have to do with my son’s eyes?

The assistant called in the eye doctor, and spoke to her briefly. Doctor Miller nodded rapidly.

‘Let me look through the slit-lamp machine. Then we’ll know for sure.’

We were ushered into the second office.

Eli was not impressed with the examination, declaring in piercing tones, that he did not appreciate having his head held at such a tight and awkward angle.

Doctor Miller worked quickly, evidently pleased with what she was viewing. She squeezed drops into Eli’s eyes and told us we’d be called back in about twenty minutes later.

‘But what’s the problem with him?’

I couldn’t help blurt out. ‘Can he see anything at all?’

The doctor smiled. ‘I’m ninety-five percent sure of my diagnosis, but I want to be one-hundred percent clear of the whole picture and see his eyes after they’ve been

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JUDAISM 39

enlarged, before I tell you.’

The waiting room was packed. I was starving. Eli finally fell asleep. Please let him be able to see, I prayed silently, trying to make small-talk with my husband.

Finally I heard our name called.

Doctor Miller looked briefly into Eli’s eyes, and then sat comfortably on her chair, ready, it seemed, to give a lecture.

‘He has something called albinism.’

‘Albinism?’ I asked doubtfully.

‘Yes, albinism. Most people have heard of it - the condition means partial or complete loss of pigmentation, which causes very pale skin and light eyes. But there’s another aspect most people don’t know about.’

I love science, and for the duration of the appointment almost forgot that she was referring to my sweet, baby son.

‘The lack of pigmentation,’ continued the doctor, ‘can affect the eyes in multiple ways, and individuals with albinism can vary significantly in how much their eyes and vision are affected.’

We were quiet, absorbing the information.

‘He has nystagmus, a normal outcome of albinism, and that is why his eyes float from side to side and can’t focus well.

Doctor Miller paused. My husband and I stared.

‘But,’ she continued. ‘There’s good news.’

I shifted Eli in my arms.

‘Because the pigmentation continues to increase from birth onwards, their sight only improves with time. Right now he can probably hardly see anything, but give him three, four months, and things will change drastically. The scale is huge, but people with albinism almost always live extremely normal, healthy, happy lives.’

What a relief! What a blessing! Our baby could see and will see! Yes, he may struggle slightly more than other children. Yes, his hair and skin color may be unnaturally light. And yes, this is a genetic condition which we may have to contend with in future children too. But he could see!

When Eli was six months old he was prescribed glasses for his long-sightedness and cross-eye. A wise acquaintance, whose son also has nystagmus, told me something which I will try my best never to forget. She told me that every child has many obstacles to contend with along the path of growing up. This is just one more, and as long as we see our children as one hundred percent normal, and inject them with the confidence to feel one hundred percent normal, be’ezras Hashem, they will be.

The fear I felt before the diagnosis was the catalyst for my gratefulness upon receiving it. That what we thought could be, isn’t, and what is, could be worse. And when my spunky Eli at three years old recognized numbers one to ten in digit form without much effort, it deepened my appreciation for sticky hands and cheeky smiles, for mess and endless demands, for the beauty of life and the miracles we merit to live through every single moment.

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Beshalach

Beshalach Word Search

Pharaoh let the Jews out of his land, but very soon began to regret it.

He chased after them together with his mighty army. The Jews found themselves surrounded, with Egyptians behind them and the sea in front of them. After one brave Nachshon son of Aminadav jumped in, the sea split and in another great miracle, the Jews were able to walk through on dry land. The Egyptians nevertheless chased after them and the waters swallowed them. Finally, the Jews could travel on but, first, a great song of thanks was sung.

After traveling for some time they became thirsty and then hungry and Hashem took care of them, giving them a water source and special food called Man. On Friday, a double portion of Man would fall and we remember this each week with our two challot! Finally, Amalek comes to fight against the Jews and, once again, Hashem helped the Jews reach victory in temporarily ridding themselves of yet another enemy!

Tangram Challenge!

Using all the shapes on the left can you make the dog shape on the right?

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AMALEK • CLOUD • FIRE • MANNA • MARAH • PILLAR • SHIRA • SPLIT

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Beshalach In a nutshell If anyone had problems making up his mind, it has got to have been King Pharaoh. First, he lets the Jewish people go out of fear for his life, then he suddenly wonders, “What have I done? To let the Jews out from being our slaves? No way!”. So, he gathers his horsemen, with their chariots and off the race to chase after the Jewish people. Now, G-d could have taken them on a shorter route to the Holy Land, but He did not want them to get frightened of a war with the Pelishtim so He took them on a longer route.

Leading the Jews was a Cloud of Glory at day and a Pillar of Fire at night. Pharaoh chases after the Jews and it does not take long before he was approaching them – leading the way. The Jews are told to turn around and encamp near the sea. They are then faced by the sea in front of them and the enemies behind them and they panic. “Moshe – why have you taken us out of Egypt?!” Moshe davens to Hashem, but Hashem tells him, “Now is not the time for that. Travel on!”.

The people are too frightened to travel into the sea, besides for one man – Nachshon the son of Aminadav (whose sister, Elisheva, was married to Aaron). In he jumps into the water

and – the miracle of the 7th Day of Pesach happens -the waters part and a lovely path is formed, allowing the entire nation to go across as if it was a beautiful day.

The nation gets to the other side, and the Egpytians sill have not got the message! The Egyptians come racing into the dry path – and the waters come crashing down on them, finally bringing a true ending to the hundreds of years of grief they had given the Jews. Remember? – Pharaoh was sure that it was safe to start up with the Jews with water – decreeing to throw the Jewish boys in the river; however, the punishment for doing so eventually came and the Egpytians were well and truly punished by water.

Moshe and the Jewish men then break out into song – an emotional and energetic, poetic and prophetic, full of praise and prayer. We recite this each day in Shacharit, “Az Yashir”.

It begins with praising Hashem for saving the Jewish people and drowning the Egyptians and end with a prayer for G-d to bring the Jewish people to their Holy Beit Hamikdash.

Miriam then leads the women in prayer and they too praise Hashem.

Word Wheel The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel.

Each word must contain at least three letters. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel.

The Jews then travel away from the sea, loaded with precious jewellery and stones and eventually they get thirsty from travelling. The water they had tasted bitter and Hashem told Moshe to throw a stick in the water, turning it palatable.

The nation then needed food as their provisions from Egypt had run out. Hashem then sends them a special food, “Man” which had whichever taste the person chose! The Jews were told not to leave any over night as Hashem would send it daily, besides for Shabbat. It was therefore sent as a “double portion” each Friday. Two troublemakers, “Dasan and Aviram” left their Man out overnight, and birds came to eat it.

At the end of the Sidra, the nation of Amalek came to fight the Jewish people. Hashem tells Moshe to fight Amalek and Yehoshua leads the war, with Moshe praying to Hashem. So long as the Jews kept their minds on G-d they succeeded in the war, but if they lost that focus, they suffered losses.

In our fight in life against negative forces, we too keep our trust in Hashem and that way we look forward to much success!

Use this area to write the words you have found.

r r

g o

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Last week’s words: Here are some words you may have found from last week - you may have found more! arm dam elm lam mad

mar ram rem dame dram

lama lame made male mare

marl mead meal meld ream

alarm armed drama dream lamed

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lamer lemma madam medal realm

armada dermal rammed alarmed marmalade

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Q: What has 4 wheels, and eats grass.

A: A cow on a skateboard.

Cow: “Mooooove over!”

Sheep: “Naaaaaaa.”

Q:Why is it a bad idea to insult an octopus?

A: Because it is well armed.

(Answers at the bottom of page upside down)

1. What gets broken without being held?

3. What has a

2. What has cities, but no houses; forests, but no trees; and water, but no fish?

Q: Who earns a living by driving his customers away?

A: A taxi driver.

Heart but no other organs?

3) A deck of cards 1. A promise

2) A map

1. Thi is besides the point 2. A cut above the rest 3. 5 Pounds overweight

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4. Space Invaders 5. Right bewtween the eyes 6. Two in one

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City top with 5-star win as Sixteen-goal Lions United crash to Blades rout Scrabble in Cup

BY DAVID SAFFER

Manchester City head the Premier League after a five-star performance against West Brom at the Hawthorns on Tuesday.

BY DAVID SAFFER Manchester United had a chance to return to topMogilner spot but scored went down to aasshock 2-1 Reiss six goals Maccabi home defeat bottom club Sheffield London Lionsagainst thumped Scrabble A in the United at Old Trafford last Anekstein night. second round of the Cyril Cup. Pep Guardiola’s side side are the ninthupteam to Th e Premier League racked a 16-0 headwith the Daniel table having 11 consecutive win Green won and Michael Kenley leaguebagging and cup games. In latest Datriboth a hat-trick.

Edtheir Brafman, umph, the Baggies had aHassanali penalty shout early vid Dinkin, and Adam completon the before Phil struckofa apost ed rout in aFoden mismatch tie.in the early Lions exchanges. could have scored in the opening City opened the scoring withopened a sublime minute of the clash but soon the finish from Gundogan on six minutes. scoring andIlkay led 9-0 by half time.

The

by Joao Cancelo controverThsecond e Division One team,was though outsial as the linesman flagged for offside in classed, battled away to the end. theLions build-up but lost VARfor overturned the time call. boss was words at full The hosts cause tofrom be upset though as such was had the display his team who they stopped playing they saw the flag gave every respect to when the opposition. raised. defence contin“I’m But not the really sure should there’s have anything to ued then questioned the decision. say, we are happy to make it through to the Callum missed an opening and next roundRobinson of the cup, ” he commented. it proved costly as Gundogan City’s Hendon United Sports ran poached out 3-1 victors third before theOne half outfi hour.

Riyad London Mahrez against League t North made it 4-0 when he cut in from the right Raiders. toTh fire home in side first led halfearly stoppage time.

Rae Premier in the second heem Sterling completed the scoring from half only for Raiders to equalise but struck closelate range fromtoa Mahrez two goals book across. place in round Guardiola refused to comment on City’s three of the competition. scintillating form.

“The momentum Hendon now turn their attentionsisto(our the next match) Sheffield ” he told BBCa league as they travel United, to Oakwood A for Sport. “We (for)table two days crucial top rest of the clashand on prepare Sunday the day before the game. It’s the only way I (10am). know as manager.

We don’t see the tables, we Daniel Kristall’s team stunned league don’t seelast what we have done.

It’s just leaders month when they won(about) 2-0, a Sheffield. ” victory would move them to within a point United stunned Ole Gunnar of Sheffield Hendon with a match in hand.

Solksjaer’s team by latest opening the of scoring at Elsewhere in the round fixtures, Old Trafford.

Bryan nodded home 10-man NorthKean London Galaxy made it a from closetitle range a corner 23 three-way racefollowing in the only DivisiononOne minutes. clash of the day after defeating Oakwood B. The hosts weresaw lacklustre the Jamie Murray red earlythroughout on but Galaxy half. Anthony Martial had theCohen ball in and the net rallied with goals from Josh Jabut his effort was ruled out for an apparent cob Leigh to record an important 2-1 away nudge on the goalkeeper by Harry Maguire. win.

The Blades have enduredJewish a torridCare timeAthis Galaxy head Redbridge in season deserved an interval lead but the tableand by just one point after 10 matches, Unitedplace hit back withFC a Maguire third Fairlop are fiveheader pointsafter bea corner the in half hour. The visitors hind withjust twoafter games hand. may rock scored bottomfor of Oakwood. the table but they RafibeBloom struck backawith an Oliver Burke goal on “It was fantastic performance in 74a

minutes to seal a precious second league win. For Solksjaer this is a blow. He will now look to see if his charges can bounce back against Arsenal at the weekend.

Everton and Leicester City lined up for a highly anticipated clash at Goodison Park.

The Foxes had a chance to move alongside City. And they started brightly but Carlo Ancelotti’s side opened the scoring when James Rodriguez fired home on the half hour for a half time lead. Youri Tielemens equalised with a long-range effort midway through the second half after a corner.

Jordan Pickford had kept his team in the game but Everton almost snatched the points through Richarlson and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

West Ham occupy fourth spot after coming from behind against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Wilfred Zaha fired the hosts ahead from the edge of penalty area inside three minutes. Michail Antonio set up Tomas Soucek with a clever hook-back to equalise, the Czech midfielder then popped up at the back post to knock in his second midway through the half. Antonio proceeded to hit 16-goal Maccabi London Lionsbefore the interval as the woodwork twice the Hammers dominated play.

Craig Dawson the contest, nodding must-win game,”settled commented Galaxy playin a swingingLuke corner on 65 minutes. Palace er-manager Lewis. grabbed a consolation throughOakwood Micky Batsh“We sat back and allowed the uayi deep injury time. advantage and ball, giveninto the one-man Out oftosorts to Tottenham looked hit Liverpool them on travel the counter attack Hotspur tonight with both teams eyeing a with pace. top four place.

“Both goals came down the right-hand Jurgen Klopp is desperate to see hisCohen team side.

Leigh crossed the first one into getfiback to winning ways but himself.

Jose Mourto nish, before slotting home Up inho’s are to first side we go. ” enjoying heady times. This clash be a Two thriller if both on Thecould Division title racesides alsogotook attack.with league leaders Herstwood athetwist Chelsea ground goalless draw Vale going down to aout 2-1 adefeat at Temple against Wolves in Thomas Tuchel’s first Fortune. game in charge at Stamford following Faithfold B have playedBridge a game more the sacking of moved Blues legend Frank Lampard than Vale but level with a 5-3 win at after 18London monthsRaiders in charge.

North Masters.

Rui Patricio Rudiger Jacob Kalms saved struckfrom twiceAntonio for Fortune who whilst Callum andJames Ben Chilscored throughHudson-Odoi leading scorer Milwell missed opportunities. letwith his 17th goal of the Wolves season.deserved a share of the was spoilsalland closest to winThe result thewent more remarkable ning when Pedro crossbar. as Temple were Neto downstruck to 11the players with The former Paris St-Germain has a ‘keeper Ben Rebuck dislocating boss a shoulder bigthe jobwarm on hisup. hands to get the Blues back on in track.

“This was a fantastic win given the

Raheem Sterling scored Manchester City’s fifth goal

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

In a statement after Lampard’s dismissal, Chelsea said, “This has been a very difficult decision and not one that the owner and the board have taken lightly. We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as head coach of the club. However, recent results and performances have not met the club’s expectations, leaving the club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement. There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration it was decided a change is needed now to give the club time to improve performances and results this season.”

Owner Roman Abramovich said that Lampard’s status as an “important icon” of the club “remains undiminished” despite his dismissal. “He is a man of great integrity circumstances, ” said delighted Fortune and has the highest boss Simon Linden.of work ethics. However, under we believe it is “We current had a circumstances number of players out, Rebest togot change managers, ” said Abramovich. buck injured, so I couldn’t have asked Burnley from behindWe twice to all buta any more came from the players. wish Ben banish recovery. relegation fears with a thrilling 3-2 speedy win home to Aston at Turf Moor.

“Itatwas a proper oldVilla school performance, visitors 2-1 courtesy Ollie WatweThe battled andled defended for theof90 minutes kins and Mee had levelled and tookJack ourGrealish. chances.Ben Experience proved forbe thethe hosts just It’s aftera big halfwin, time,one then to winner. weafter will Grealish’s McNeil equalenjoy andhalf-volley, we hope toDwight build on it in 2019. ” ised 14 minutes remaining.

Wood Hewith added, “This win marks 50Chris years as a nodded club the and winner on one 79 Nigel minutes. football will be KyteNick and Pope hadassociated kept his team match everyone with in thethe club from and day

this was an important win for Sean Dyche’s side.

Arsenal gained revenge over Southampton for knocking them out of the FA Cup with an impressive 3-1 at St Mary’s Stadium. A fifth victory in six league games takes Mikel Arteta’s team into the top-10.

After Alexandre Lacazette missed a glorious opportunity in the opening minute, Saints opened the scoring through Stuary Armstrong from a corner. The visitors were not to be denied though as Pepe equalised moments later. And the Gunners took the lead when Lacazette set up teenager Bukayo Saka for a wonderful goal before half time.

Theo Walcott went close against his former team but Arsenal wrapped up the win with Lacazette bravely finishing off a move involving the impressive Saka on 72 minutes.

Leeds United returned to winning ways after three defeats with a significant 2-1 win at Newcastle United in a bid to avoid being sucked into the relegation battle. Newcastle have gone 11 matches without a win in league and cup. They are six points clear of the bottom three.

Patrick Bamford combined with Rodrigo PHOTO: DAVIDscorSAFFER for Raphina to deservedly open the ing for Leeds on 17 minutes. Rodrigo and Raphina almost doubled the lead before half time.

Steve Bruce’s Geordies hit back through Miguel Almiron just before the hour with a neat finish but Leeds sealed the points minutes later with a sensational strike from Jack Harrison. Taking Raphina’s pinpoint pass, Leeds’ left winger stroked the ball home.

Raphina almost made it three but Leeds were indebted to French ‘keeper Illan Meslier for smart saves to deny Jonjo Shelley and will Fabian Schar. one enjoy. ” Leeds dug deep for a vitalVale win that them 13 points clear of the bosstakes Jacob Emanuel was quick to relegation scrap. wish Rebuck well following his injury.

Brighton Fulham shared the spoils in “First andand most importantly, everyone at a goalless Amex Stadium.

Vale woulddraw like at to the wish the Fortune ‘keeper Lewis recovery, Dunk, we Leandro and a quick hope toTrossard see him back Adam missed chances for the Seaon the Webster football pitch as soon as possible, ” he gulls to move well clear of the bottom. Alsaid. eksandar Mitrovic close with a header As for the defeat,went Emanuel commented, for the visitors who were denied a winyou by “It doesn’t matter how big a squad Dunk’syou goal-line clearance Ruben have, can never accountfrom for unavailLoftus-Cheek in stoppage ability or injury.

Only fivetime. of today’s team Brighton remain fivewin points of 18tha played in our recent overahead FC Team, placed lack of Fulham. togetherness and poor individual

“It was a proper old school performance, we battled and defended for the 90 minutes and took our chances. Experience proved to be the winner.”

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A big thank you For the past ten months, JDA has worked flat out to make sure all our most vulnerable clients have food, medication and everything they need to stay safe during COVID-19.

And not only are they all healthy and stable, they’ve been able to stay connected with their JDA friends, had regular visits from our support staff and even had their challahs delivered fresh each Friday morning!

And our efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Tobi, one of our professional interpreters just taught a 93 year old to Facetime!

Many of our Deaf clients have dementia, learning disabilities or frail mental health. JDA’s innovative support services have been featured on national TV - and Deaf charities all over the country have been learning from us how we’ve kept such high risk people free from Coronavirus, healthy, happy and out of hospitals and care homes.

...to JDA staff and volunteers

...and to you, our supporters

But this has only been possible because of our support workers who have been working unbelievably hard to look after those in our community who have no one else to get them through.

Running JDA’s emergency services during lockdown is costly. But they must continue and there is no question of cutting corners when lives are at stake.

And they’ve been aided by a team of volunteers who have spent their days keeping the spectre of loneliness and isolation away from our clients.

020 8446 0502 www.jdeaf.org.uk

The JDA is a family made up of clients, an outstanding workforce, selfless volunteers and our incredibly valued supporters who provide the fuel to keep us running. Thank you so much for bringing us this far and please help us to keep providing the specialist services our community need.

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Fernandes free kick KOs Liverpool in cup thriller

BY DAVID SAFFER Six big guns are through to what could be an enthralling FA Cup fifth round next month on Wednesday, February 10th.

Everton’s clash versus Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park is arguably the tie of the round but Manchester United’s home game against West Ham United could well rival it for excitement.

Manchester City, Leicester City and Chelsea will all be heavy favourites to advance against Swansea City, Brighton and Barnsley respectively. Wolves versus Southampton at Molineux will be a tight affair as both club’s chase silverware. The other ties could potentially see a shock as Championship playoff hopefuls Bournemouth and Bristol City travel to Burnley and Sheffield United.

Ole Solksjaer’s United came from behind to knock out Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool 3-2 in a fourth round thriller at Old Trafford.

Bruno Fernandes came off the bench just after the hour before firing home a brilliant free-kick winner 12 minutes from time.

Mo Salah had opened the scoring with a neat finish only for Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford to strike either side of half time. Salah bagged his second before Fernandes took the headlines after Fabinho fouled Edinson Cavani on the edge of the penalty box.

United’s season is gaining momentum but this was a blow for the side from Anfield as they named a strong line up having endured an inconsistent run of form.

Cheltenham Town pushed a second-string Manchester City all the way but eventually succumbed to three late goals.

Indeed, a huge giant killing act was on the cards as City failed to find a clinical edge to their play but once Phil Foden struck in the 81st minute there was only going to be one winner.

The Robins opened the scoring against Pep Guardiola’s side through Alfie May just before hour but City, who made 10 changes to their Premier League side, won courtesy of Foden, Gabriel Jesus and Ferran Torres in the final move of the game.

It was a case of ‘what might have been’ for the League Two side but City won and are among the favourites to lift the Cup. Carlo Ancelotti’s Everton ran out comfortable 3-0 winners against Championship Sheffield Wednesday and could well be ‘dark horses’ for the trophy this season.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is in fine goalscoring form and notched his 15th goal in all competitions from Andre Gomes’ cross on the half hour. Richarlison and Yerry Mina nodded in corners from James Rodriguez to settle the tie just past the hour. Everton won the trophy in 1995, could this be their year?

Marcus Rashford struck Manchester United’s second goal

Ancelotti’s charges now face Tottenham Hotspur in what could be a humdinger of a tie.

Jose Mourinho rejigged his side and they ultimately proved too strong for Wycombe Wanderers with three late goals to book a place in the next round. The hosts actually took the lead through Fred Onyedinma midway in the first half but Gareth Bale hooked home Lucas Moura’s just before half-time.

Mourinho brought on the cavalry in Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Tanguy Ndombele after the break. And Harry Winks got the all-important second on 86 minutes before Ndombele bagged a brace.

Make no mistake, Tottenham are chasing honours on four fronts.

Tammy Abraham hit a hat-trick in a 3-1 win against Luton Town. The match turned out to be Frank Lampard’s final game as Chelsea boss.

Abraham scored twice in the opening 17 minutes, Jordan Clark reduced the deficit after an error by Blues goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on the half hour. Abraham poached his third 16 minutes from time.

Timo Werner missed a penalty but the game was up for the Hatters.

Leicester City turned on the style in the second half to avoid a shock at Brentford.

Mads Bech Sorenson opened the scoring in the seventh minute but the Foxes hit back immediately after half time through Cengiz Under. Youri Tielemans was fouled in the box soon after and slotted in the spot kick. James Maddison has been on form and grabbed a third to book a last-16 place.

Southampton knocked cup holders Arsenal out thanks to an own goal by Gabriel

Chelsea’s hat-trick hero Tammy Abraham

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA

who diverted Kyle Walker-Peters’ cross past his keeper in the 24th minute. The result was a blow to the Gunners who have improved in recent weeks but the Saints go marching on.

There was no fairy tale for non-league Chorley at home to Wolves or Division Two Crawley Town at Bournemouth.

The National League North side matched their Premier opponents for long periods but went down to a stunning 12th minute 30-yard strike by Vitinha. His first strike for the club was special but the outsiders earned rave reviews for a battling display

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at Victory Park and picked up £120,000 in prize money that will serve them well in the current pandemic.

Former England star Jack Wilshere opened the scoring for Bournemouth with a fine finish in his second spell at the club against Crawley who equalised through Tom Nichols only for Joshua King, who set up Wilshere for his goal, sent the Cherries through on 65 minutes.

In other ties, a Jay Rodriguez brace and Kevin Long close-range strike saw Burnley past Fulham.

The Clarets bossed the game and deservedly took the spoils. Sean Dyche’s side will fancy their chances against Bournemouth for a quarter final place.

Premier highflyers West Ham are running into form and routed Doncaster Rovers to set up a mouth-watering clash at Old Trafford.

Rovers endured the worst possible start when Pablo Fornals opened the scoring in the second minute. Andriy Yarmolenko dinked home for a 2-0 lead, Andy Butler put through his own goal before substitute Oladapo Afolayan completed the scoring with his first goal for the club.

The Hammers will be outsiders against Manchester United but this is their only chance of silverware so they will be going all out to create a surprise.

Brighton dashed League One Blackpool’s hopes on the south coast.

Yves Bissouma fired home from 30 yards in the 27th minute only for Gary Madine to level for the Seasiders. The 1953 winners were back in the game but Brighton advanced when Alexis Mac Allister’s strike deflected in off Steven Alzate just before the hour.

Sheffield United enjoyed a welcome game away from their Premier struggles with a 2-1 win against League One side Plymouth Argyle. The Blades took the lead when Chris Basham nodded home a Billy Sharp’s cross. Sharp then notched the second before half time. Panutche Camara had gone close in the first half and fired home but the hosts saw the game out.

Elsewhere, Swansea City thumped Nottingham Forest 5-1 at home.

Liam Cullen and Matt Grimes bagged a brace, Ollie Cooper hit the fifth in a dominant display. Anthony Knockaert briefly had Forest in the game at 2-1 but Grimes slotted in a penalty before the hosts ran away with the game.

Barnsley’s Callum Styles knocked Championship leaders Norwich out with a second half strike, whilst play off hopefuls Bristol City ran out 3-0 winners against Millwall at The Den courtesy of goals from Famara Diedhiou, Nahki Wells and Antoine Semenyo.

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