Anthony Felix z”l

The news of Anthony’s death, after a long and painful illness endured with courage and determination, is a sad blow to the community. Anthony played more than an active part in shul life. He was a member of the Board of Management and occupied a key role as Chairman of a revived and dynamic Charity Committee.

Anthony generously gave his time and professional skills to dramatically impact this magazine’s design over several editions apart from being a regular contributor. This talent was also demonstrated in his layout and artwork for the “Yummy in North Netanya” cookbook, published last year. He was also a leading light in the Purim Shpiel for many years.

He was perhaps most proud of his service as Baal Tekiah each Rosh Hashanah and was meticulous in his adherence to the dinim (laws) involved. An enthusiastic member of the Daf Yomi shiur, Anthony organized the Siyum in January 2020, which marked the end of one seven-year cycle and the start of the new. Very appropriately, Anthony was honoured with the position of Chatan Bereshit at Simchat Torah 2018.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Daphne and his children Tanya (Cardash) and Martyn and their families. May his memory be a blessing. A

A.R.G.

Continued from page 35 everyone, we bring in tables and chairs from a famous caterer and move the furniture. Then the menu is prepared with the most select kosher caterer in Paris.

The big day is coming.

The press has not been informed; no one except we and the guests knew about this event, no pictures were taken, only our private pictures illustrating this article were taken. We lived in the same street as the Chief Rabbi, just opposite. The official cars are coming.

Shopkeepers are beginning to suspect that a personality is coming to our street. Some people know us well, and Janet, my wife, will quietly tell them who we’re expecting.

With the President’s visit taking place on the day of Hoshana Raba, the Chief Rabbi introduces him to the ritual of “farewell to the Succah” by inviting him to his small Succah. Among the guests are the leaders of the main Jewish institutions in France, and the President’s advisor, Jacques Attali. The meal then takes place according to the protocol that has been recommended to us. During the meal the Chief Rabbi explains Jewish laws and customs to the President who is very attentive. (We will learn much later, that already extremely ill, he was haunted by death and sought all spiritual answers to his concerns).

This event had no direct consequences other than the establishment of cordial relations between the two men and the symbolic value of a unique meeting in the history of the country.

Alas, President Mitterrand’s policy towards Israel was subsequently ambiguous, and in the end, the revelation of his relationship with Bousquet, former Chief of police during the Vel d’Hiv roundup in July 42, significantly tarnished his reputation. A

Left to right: Mrs Sirat, Chief Rabbi Sirat, My Father, Hoshana Rabbah 1982