Monday 22 December 2008

Another first for Radio JCom

Last night, Radio Jcom has achieved another radio first!

They lit the first virtual Chanukah Candle on the radio. This will happen every day at 5.03pm except Friday when it will happen at approx 2.52pm.

Please do have a listen and tell all your friends.

Don’t forget to tune into www.radiojcom.com and click on listen live.

Terror from the Gaza Strip: End of the Calm

An Israel update from the Shaliach for the Leeds Jewish Community- Asaf Segev

Terror from the Gaza Strip: End of the Calm
21.12.2008

Hamas announced that the period of calm, which began on June 19 and has been eroding since November 4, ended as of Friday, December 19. In fact, for weeks the calm has been maintained in name only.

November 4 – December 15: 130 rockets and 98 mortar bombs hit Israel (ITIC).

Since November 4, the following dynamic has been taking place:
1. the Palestinian terrorist organizations try to carry out attacks (IEDs, rocket and mortar shell fire),
2. the IDF acts to prevent the attacks (Israeli Air Force attacks, firing at terrorist squads near the fence),
3. the terrorist organizations respond and then continue with daily sporadic rocket and mortar shell fire,
4. Israel responds by closing the crossings.

Hamas's response to the distress caused to the Gazan population by the closing of the crossings is not to cease the rocket launchings, but rather to conduct an exaggerated and distorted media campaign emphasizing the suffering the “siege” has brought to the Gaza Strip, with the objective of exerting pressure on Israel to open the crossings even as rocket and mortar fire continue.

Dec. 21: About 8 rockets and mortar bombs fell this morning. A home in Sderot was severely damaged and a foreign worker was wounded by shrapnel (IDF).

Dec. 20 (Shabbat): 10 rockets and 24 mortar bombs were launched at Israeli communities (IDF).
Dec. 17: More than 20 rockets fell; one exploded next to a large shopping center in Sderot; 3 people were lightly wounded.
Dec. 16: 4 rockets fell, one near a soccer field where children were playing, one near a factory in Sderot.

Dec. 9-15: 5 rockets and 7 mortars fired (2 fell in Egypt) (ITIC).

Dec. 7: 6 Kassam rockets and 4 mortar shells landed in the vicinity of: Sderot, Kibbutz Be’eri, Alumim, Ami-Oz, Kissufim and Kibbutz Yated.

Dec. 5-6: Six Kassam rockets and five mortar shells landed in the vicinity of Israeli communities in southern Israel, including: Ashqelon, Sderot, Kibbutz Nahal-Oz, Kissufim, Alumim, Gevim and Erez. (Ifrd)
Dec. 4: One Kassam rocket landed north of Sderot, starting a fire south of Kibbutz Or Haner. (Ifrd)
Dec. 3: Six Kassam rocket and six mortar shells landed in the vicinity of: Nahal- Oz, Karni crossing, Kibbutz Miflasim, Netiv HaAsara, Kerem Shalom and Kibbutz Suffa. (Ifrd)
Dec. 2: Nine Kassam rockets and seven mortar shells landed in the vicinity of several Kibutzim, including: Nir-Am, Kfar Azza, Nahal Oz, Kerem Shalom and Suffa.
Dec. 1: Two Kassams fell, one north of K. Zikim and one near Nahal Oz. (Ifrd)

November 28 the Palestinian terrorist organizations launched a massive barrage of 17 mortar shells directed at the Nahal Oz area. One rocket was also fired, which landed in an open area. Hamas, PIJ and PRC all claimed responsibility.

One of the mortar shells hit an IDF base in the Nahal Oz region, wounding eight soldiers, one of them critically (he lost a leg).

Nov. 18-25: A total of 14 rockets and 10 mortar bombs were fired at Israel population centers and IDF forces operating near the border security fence. The Popular Resistance Committees, the Popular and Democratic Fronts for the Liberation of Palestine, and Fatah claimed responsibility for the attacks. Hamas did not participate in the attacks but it also did not exert force to put an end to the shelling.


IDF counterterrorism

Dec. 17-18 (Wednesday, Wed. night): The IAF conducted four aerial strikes, three in the northern Gaza Strip, against rocket-launching squads and an arsenal in Jebalya, and one in Khan Yunis (southern Gaza Strip) against a rocket and explosives production factory.

December 8th – 3 explosive devices were placed near the fence: one at Karni crossing and two more a km south of the crossing. The explosive devices were detonated by IDF sappers. An additional explosive device was activated against an IDF mobilized patrol approximately 6 km south of Erez crossing. Hamas claimed responsibility. (Ifrd)

Dec. 7: In response to rocket and mortar fire, the IAF targeted and hit a Kassam launcher. (Ifrd)
Dec. 6: IDF carried out two pinpoint operations, targeting rocket-launching squads in Beit Hanoun and Jabalya. (Ifrd)

Dec. 5-6: Egyptian forces uncovered along the Egyptian-Gaza border 500 tons of TNT and storage rooms containing anti-tank missiles intended for smuggling.

Dec. 2: In response to rocket and mortar fire on Negev communities, the IAF targeted a squad of mortar shells launchers. Two terrorists were killed and four were injured. In addition, IDF troops discovered and detonated an explosive device northeast of Kissufim crossing. (Ifrd)
Dec. 1: Snipers shot at IDF troops south of Sufa crossing; the soldiers returned fire.

November 28: During routine operations, an IDF force identified terrorist operatives laying an IED near the Gaza Strip border security fence in the region of Abasan, near Khan Yunis. A firefight developed between the terrorists and the IDF soldiers, resulting in the death of a Popular Resistance Committees operative and the wounding of four others.

Nov. 23: IDF attacked a rocket-launching squad in N. Gaza, neutralizing them after they launched one Kassam rocket and before they could launch another one.

Friday 19 December 2008

Communal Diary for 21st - 28th December

Click below to enlarge:


JCom schedule

Below is the schedule for Radio JCom which you can listen to on www.radiojcom.com

Sunday to Thursday

00.00 to 01.00 Harry Venet – Late Night Owl
01.00 to 02.00 Harry Venet – Late Night Owl
02.00 to 03.00 Standard 60’s/70’s
03.00 to 04.00 Mixture of Jazz, Film, Blues, Rat Pack etc.
04.00 to 05.00 Classical Hour0
5.00 to 06.00 Pop 70’s/80’s/90’s/00’s
06.00 to 07.00 Standard 70’s/80’s/90’s
07.00 to 08.00 Standard 60’s/70’s
08.00 to 09.00 Pop 70’s/80’s/90’s/00’s
09.00 to 10.00 Standard 70’s/80’s/90’s
10.00 to 11.00 Standard 60’s/70’s
11.00 to 12.00 Pop 70’s/80’s/90’s/00’s
12.00 to 13.00 Standard 70’s/80’s/90’s
13.00 to 14.00 Standard 60’s/70’s
14.00 to 15.00 Pop 70’s/80’s/90’s/00’s
15.00 to 16.00 Standard 70’s/80’s/90’s
16.00 to 17.00 Pop 70’s/80’s/90’s/00’s
17.00 to 18.00 Standard 70’s/80’s/90’s
18.00 to 19.00 Standard 60’s/70’s
19.00 to 20.00 Pop 70’s/80’s/90’s/00’s
20.00 to 21.00 ”Women Aloud” with Henriette Lee
21.00 to 22.00 Music in the Air – Andrew Ullmann
22.00 to 23.00 The Surreal Hour - Ed Moss
23.00 to 24.00 Harry Venet – Late Night Owl

Friday

14.00 to 15.00 Easy Listening Jewish + Music
15.00 to 16.00 ”Women Aloud” with Henriette Lee
16.00 to 17.00 Standard 70’s/80’s/90’s
17.00 to 18.00 Easy Listening Jewish + Music
18.00 to 19.00 No formal transmission – Shabbat notice
19.00 to 20.00 No formal transmission – Shabbat notice
20.00 to 21.00 No formal transmission – Shabbat notice
21.00 to 22.00 No formal transmission – Shabbat notice
22.00 to 23.00 No formal transmission – Shabbat notice
23.00 to 24.00 No formal transmission – Shabbat notice

Wednesday 17 December 2008

BA end of term report

End of term- written by Sagi Yechezkel

After 13 weeks of Bnei Akiva each shabbat; the first term has sadly come to an end. We have had so much fun this term starting it with the pots to go tochnit, and now finishing with a huge tochnit with lots of prizes, sweets and doughnuts!

The next term of Bnei Akiva starts on the 17th of January, 2.45 at gourmet; starts at 3, and pick up is at 5 from the UHC.

During the next term of Bnei Akiva there will be many events which will be keeping the whole family busy! On the 6th, 7th & 8th of March 2009 at the Etz Chaim there is this years Shabbat Ha’irgun (make sure your here for it - it will be better then ever). In June there will be the Family Friday Night where you as a family will be competing against other families from Leeds to be crowned Leeds BA’s cleverest family title! There will also be many other activities during the year which will be going on for the whole community to enjoy. Watch this space - or the Jewish Telegraph!

Film: Leeds Jewry in 1980

Jewish Historical Society of England, Leeds Branch present...

Leeds Jewry in 1980- A film produced by Alan Kassell

The event will take place on Monday January 12th at 8.00pm at UHC synagogue. Refrreshments will be provided. The evernt is free for JHSE members abd £2 for non-members

Tuesday 16 December 2008

Organisations of the Community: Donisthorpe Hall

Donisthorpe Hall

Donisthorpe Hall is one of the best residential care homes in the North of England: it is the only independent home of its kind to achieve the coveted Health Quality Service (HQS) accreditation and has also been granted the Hospitality Assured standard for service and business excellence. Primarily serving the elderly members of the Jewish community, Donisthorpe also welcomes non-Jewish residents who wish to live in an Orthodox Jewish environment.

In all, there are 162 bedrooms which provide the sort of accommodation found only in good quality hotels. Most of the bedrooms are en-suite with colour television and fridges, with plans for all rooms to meet this standard. All of them have been specifically designed to cater for the needs of the elderly, so they each have sufficient room for family and friends to visit in comfort. The high standard extends to the surrounding gardens and to all communal areas maintaining the home's relaxing and homely environment. This atmosphere is enhanced by the exquisite Kosher food they are served.

Care

Donsisthorpe Hall provides care that meets the individual needs of the patient. Before anyone is admitted, a nurse will asses these needs and suggest one of the following kinds of care:

• Residential - People requiring residential care are looked after by experienced competent carers on a 24-hour basis.
• Nursing- People requiring nursing receive 24-hour care by highly-skilled nurses and carers.
• Dementia care- Their 37-bed dementia care unit provides 24-hour professional and respectful care in an environment that is secure, comforting and non-threatening.
• Respite- Subject to accommodation being available, people who require short-term care following surgery or illness, or while their day-to-day carer is on holiday, can stay at the home.

General practitioners hold a surgery in the home three times a week and the services of a chiropodist and full-time physiotherapist are also available in the home. Treatment by other professionals, including dentists and opticians, will be arranged to meet residents' needs.

Activities

Residents have a very wide choice of daily activities that they can enjoy. The rich and varied programme includes bridge, bingo, computer classes, discussion groups, art instruction, keep fit, light and classical music and flower arranging. Donisthorpe also has its own 48-seat cinema which shows six films a week. Regular trips are arranged to the White Rose Shopping Centre and to nearby places of interest, such as gardens, stately homes and various shows.

All the Jewish festivals are celebrated with traditional foods and accompanied with a special entertainment programme. Donisthorpe also has its own on-site synagogue with wheelchair access which holds services every Friday night and Saturday morning

Contact Details

Telephone: 0113 268 4248
Email:info@donisthorpehall.org
Web: www.donisthorpehall.org

The Zone December Activities Report

December 2008 Activities Report written by Raina Sheaf

Club Nights
There is a real change in the atmosphere during some club nights these days! Our members are maturing and have so much to offer. We are trying many different ways to bring out their best in terms of talent, communication and ambition! One very exciting example of this is that we are discovering some really talented musicians within our young Zone community who are thoroughly enjoying “jamming” together each week. We also have some budding young DJ and music producers working really well in Street Sound.

Two of our Leaders, Simon Brown and Hannah Buck set up Zone Ready Steady Cook and the girls beat the boys hands down! Well done Hannah, better luck next time Simon!

Karate Belt Grading
The Zone Karate Kids (The future Zone Defence Force!!) were entered for their next belt grading. This was a serious belt grading and they were tested in front of “Master Johnson” from the South. It was a very strict test and I am happy to report that all Zone children entered passed the grade and received their Orange Belts. One of our members who has been studying and practising Karate for a while now entered and passed his Red Belt grade. Mazal Tov to all.

Sports
Football, basketball, gymnastics and general keep fit continue to be successful and in the newyear we will be adding some different sport and games activities to the evening sessions.

Culture/Chagim
Poland trip leaves February 15th . Asaf, our Shaliach, Adam from The Zone and Arik Hersh will accompany 15, 15 year olds. We will report on the trip in the February or March report.

UJIA
I was very happy to meet David Janner-Klausner and Doug Krikler recently and will be working on education and awareness with our young members of what UJIA is, does and offers.
At The Zone we are particularly interested in the new Philanthropy project and have already introduced it to some of our Bar/Bat Mitzvah members. I also hope to visit Manchester Jlec next year to gain more knowledge and use more of their resources.

Chanukah
The Talmud Torah and Zone teamed up to run a pre- Chanukah activity which was hugely successful. We entertained, fed and educated over 60 youngsters from both organisations. They enjoyed making wooden Chanukiot, colouring and laminating Brachot, playing the Dreidl game and singing Chanukah songs.

The hi-light of the event was “Who wants be be a Chanukah Millionaire” adapted by Simon Harris (Zone) and Chaya Mushka Angyalfi (Talmud Torah) and hosted by Rabbi Kleiman. Both teams did exceptionally well getting to the million jackpot. They won chocolate money along the way and for hitting the million a cheque will be donated to a Jewish charity of their choice. The children are to choose the charity themselves.

The event was a resounding success and is the way we hope to celebrate Chagim in the future. The youth of Leeds, “ONE YOUTH” together. We feel confident the more events we do together, the more families and children will hear about it and support us.

More Chanukah!
The Maccabi Torch Relay was in town and just in case you missed last week’s JT – we had a great night of fun activities with our 6 Israeli visitors. They performed a Chanukah play, ran games and other activities together with Zone Leaders including candle making, salt dough Chanukiot, stained glass art and a doughnut eating competition! Can you eat a whole doughnut without licking your lips?!!

Intercity / Youth Movements
Following the fantastic intercity/inter movement event (Zone/Habonim) in October, Adam set out to meet other communities and to work on some events for next year. We look forward to meeting up with Manchester again, Liverpool, Leicester, Birmingham, Sheffield and others.

Leadership
Special guests Meirav Sasson and Avril Gaunt (LJCS) joined us for an awareness activity during Leadership this month. It was a particularly unique and moving experience for our young leaders who learnt from Avril what it is like to be blind by taking part in a series of activities whilst blind folded or wearing special glasses to experience being partially sighted. Our leaders really impressed Avril and Meirav and we hope to repeat the evening for those who could not make it.

Fashion & Culture
Following the “Did you know Green is the New Black” session the fashion activity has gained momentum with our participants looking at putting on an environmentally friendly fashion show! Watch this space.

Café Chai
We are still looking for volunteers to run Café Chai through the day for adults to come in for coffee and use our computer facilities. If you would like to run the café once a week/fortnightly or monthly please let us know.

One of our Grandparents would like to start a Jewish Book Club once a month at Café Chai to read books by Jewish Authors or with Jewish content. If you are interested or know anyone who may be please get in touch with us.

DanceAthon
Due to a huge amount of different Chanukah activities for all age groups by many different organisations on the weekend of December 21st and 22nd, The Zone Parent's Committee together with The Zone have taken the decision to postpone the forthcoming Dance-a-thon event in memory of Stewart Rudette to raise money for a party area and equipment. A new date will be announced in the New Year".

Generation Zone Coffee Morning
Another fantastic success! Thank you to the Grandmas; Norma, Monica, Marsha, Adele and Pearl for another wonderful coffee morning raising in excess of £2,000 towards new sports and games equipment.

Prize
I would like to end my report today by saying how proud I was to have received the LJWB Pride Award earlier this month. The Award is a reflection on all the extremely hard work that goes into the running of The Zone, from me and the team, the management committee, all our volunteers and our donors. Thank you all so very much.

Dates For Your Diary:
Poland Trip for 15 to 18’s – Feb 09 – Book now – 5 places left
Spectacular Judean Revisited. The Judean Club Re-union.
An event not to be missed – remembering Street Lane to Barrick Road.
Tickets only £12.50 – you can book yours now call 0113 2172532.
I hope you have enjoyed reading about our activities and plans.
We welcome your feedback and any suggestions you have.

Radio JCom Coffee Morning


The first Radio Jcom coffee morning will be held in the home of Terry Stowe on Sunday 11th January 2009 to help raise the profile of YOUR community radio station in the lead-up to AM transmissions. Your support would be most welcome and appreciated. For more details, please email info@radiojcom.com .
For more information about Radio JCom go to their website: www.radiojcom.com

'Strangers on a Train'

Limelight's latest production is 'Strangers on a Train, based on the novel by Patricia Highsmith and scripted by Craig Warner. The production is directed by Helen Lorie and starring Stuart Gordon, Mark Haigh, Charlotte Faber-Scott, Carole Morris, Nick Moss, Hayden Cohen and Stephen Foreman.


There are three showings on Wednesday 25th (7.30), Thursday 26th (7.30) and Saturday 28th February 2009 (7.45). Up until a week before these shows, tickets can be obtained from Harry Venet (Tel:0113 2250651) or through any of the cast.


Here is the synopsis:


Architect Guy Haines and wealthy loner Charles Bruno meet by chance on a train. They chat and discover that each has someone in his life that he would rather be without. A simple solution, jokes Bruno – you kill my target and I’ll kill yours, so there’ll be no motive. A good joke . . . until the first murder takes place and the pressure builds for the completion of the bargain – the perfect murder . . .

Alfred Hitchcock took the plot from Patricia Highsmith’s novel, twisted it somewhat and in 1951 produced one of the most iconic films noirs of all time. Playwright Craig Warner acquired the theatre rights in 1995 and wrote the play that Limelight are presenting at the Carriageworks. Warner disregarded the film (how could anyone successfully out-Hitchcock Hitchcock?) and returned to the original novel for his principal plot, though there are some differences in the denouement, which make it more appropriate for the stage. Strangers On A Train has been staged successfully worldwide and is a welcome addition to the Carriageworks’ 2009 winter programme.


Here is the flyer (click to enlarge):



Friday 12 December 2008

Early start for Israeli dancing

Leeds Israeli Dance Organisation

Following a fabulous workshop with Marcelo Marianoff, LIDO has an early start for the last party of term. Sinai shul 7pm simcha session including dances especially for kids. Please bring nibbles (strictly kosher and veggie) and we will dance away the night!

For more information call Julia Kay at julia@bjmedia.co.uk

Communal Diary for 14th - 20th December

Click below to enlarge:


Thursday 11 December 2008

Organisations of the community: Brodetsky Primary School

Brodetsky Primary School

Introduction

Brodetsky Primary School is a state voluntary-aided Jewish primary school catering for girls and boys between the ages of 3 and 11 years. In addition there is a private on-site nursery for children aged 2 – 3 years.

Mission
Brodetsky Primary School is an Orthodox Jewish School committed to excellence in learning, education and achievements. The contribution of all members of our community, children, staff, parents, governors and friends, are valued. Brodetsky provides a warm, caring, friendly atmosphere and a safe and ordered environment in which Every Child Matters. Children will leave Brodetsky... happy, well educated and proud to be Jewish.

Aims

  • To provide pupils with a broad and balanced curriculum which is designed to develop our pupils’ knowledge, skills, understanding, personal and social development, whilst ensuring excellence for all.
  • To recognise the need for all pupils to achieve their full potential, whilst deriving maximum enjoyment from their educational experience. Meaningful learning opportunities which engage all pupils fully and encourage them to progress at an appropriate rate.
  • Encourage and stimulate pupils to have curiosity and creativity with the confidence to try new challenges in order to prepare them for life-long learning and economic wellbeing.
    Provide a professional environment where pupils and staff are encouraged to work independently and collaboratively in a climate of mutual trust.
  • As an Orthodox Jewish school, the school embraces the need to educate its pupils within a moral framework that reflects and promotes religious beliefs and practices fostering a pride in their Jewish identity.

School site

Brodetsky has an exceptionally large school site with purpose built accommodation. Benefiting from when there were two schools on the site, Brodetsky Primary School has two halls: the Silman Hall and and Brodetsky Hall. Accommodation is single storey but the school is on different levels with a lift to enable disabled access. In addition to classrooms, the school has separate KS1 and KS2 libraries, an art room, a stage, ICT suite and small group rooms.

The Brodetsky campus includes an exceptional nursery and early years building. This houses both the Brodetsky Nursery and Deborah Taylor Nursery. The early years building has its own designated outdoor area which is used to enhance all areas of learning.

Simon Camby (Headteacher): “Visits to the school are warmly welcomed – we look forward to meeting you.”

Contact details

E-mail info@brodetsky.leeds.sch.uk
Web www.brodetsky.co.uk
Telephone/Fax 0113 293 0578

Wednesday 10 December 2008

Leeds, a Rabbinic dispute and an old age home

A little while ago I came across this excerpt from a long blog-post ("A Tale of Two Lost Archives") written by Dr. Marc Shapiro. It contains some historical and religious information about well-known rabbis from the Leeds Jewish Community. It also features a discussion about a halachic question concerning whether a non-Jew can cook on Shabbat in a Jewish old age home- presumably it is referring to Donisthorpe Hall.

Here is the excerpt:

It begins around fifteen years ago, when I was researching the life of R. Jehiel Jacob Weinberg. With the strength that only someone in his twenties has, I traveled around the world, knocking on doors, and tracking down every letter I could find written by Weinberg.[1] During this time I was in touch with the widow of R Hillel Medalie. While not a student of Weinberg, Medalie became close to him after the war. During this time he was serving as rabbi of Leeds, a tenure which incidentally led to a terrible dispute with R. Solomon Fisch, another rabbi in Leeds.[2] The dispute was so bad that Fisch refused to serve with Medalie on the Leeds beit din, and R. Joseph Apfel was appointed a dayan in Fisch's place. Apfel was a student of Weinberg, and more responsa in Seridei Esh are addressed to him than anyone else. At this time, he was serving as a hazan in Leeds, but after being appointed to the beit din his impressive learning was able to come to the fore.

In 1996 Apfel published Yad Yosef, which contains his collected writings. It also contains letters from numerous great Torah scholars including R. Jehiel Jacob Weinberg, R. Dov Berish Wiedenfeld, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, R. Isaac Jacob Weiss and R. Nachum Eliezer Rabinovitch. Among the most interesting teshuvot is one that is written by R. Pinhas Toledano, the Sephardic Av Beit Din of London. Apfel turned to him with the following problem: In Leeds there is a Jewish old age home and a non-Jew cooks for the residents on Shabbat. Is this permissible? Apfel had argued that the elderly residents are regarded as holeh she-ein bo sakanah, and it is permissible for a non-Jew to cook for a holeh she-ein bo sakanah. Others disagreed and Apfel turned to Toledano for his opinion.[3]

Toledano points out that while Apfel is correct that a non-Jew may cook for a holeh she-ein bo sakanah, (see Shulhan Arukh, Orah Hayyim 328:19), it is not at all clear that all old people have this status. Nowhere in the poskim do we find such a notion. So apparently, only for those elderly who suffer from diabetes, asthma or the like can the non-Jew cook. Yet Toledano concludes that the cooking is nevertheless permissible. Since the non-Jew is hired for the entire year, i.e., a contract worker, and can miss some days (vacation, etc.), there is room for leniency. While normally melakhah cannot be done in the house of a Jew because people will assume that the worker was hired to do the labor on Shabbat, in this case everyone knows that the cook is not hired on a daily basis. Toledano supports this contention by pointing out that in London everyone has milk delivered to the house on Shabbat and no one has
raised any problems with this. I am too young to remember milk delivery, but I assume that this was the case in the U.S. as well, and the parallel is the daily delivery of newspapers. Toledano therefore concludes that it is permissible to have the non-Jew cook in the old age home. Yet he adds that even though halakhically this is OK, since it is very strange to permit such a thing in a Jewish old age home, the best thing to do is to cook the food on Friday and put it on a hot plate on Shabbat.

Returning to Medalie, from Leeds he went on to become the rabbi of the Antwerp community....

The full post can be found by clicking here. It will redirect you to the 'Tradition Seforim" blog which is hosted by the Rabbinical Council of America- the largest Rabbinic organisation in the USA.

'Latest events' at the WIZO website

Click here to be redirected to the section of the WIZO website which gives details of all their upcoming events in Leeds.

Alternatively, go to www.wizouk.org, click on 'Events' and then under regions select 'Leeds'

Chanukah in Leeds!

As you can see, Leeds is a very active community crammed full with exciting events for all age groups, interests and affiliations. If you want to know any more details about any of these events, please do not hesitate to be in contact with me at neil@ljrc.org

The Zone and Talmud Torah - Chanukah Family Fun Day
December 14th - 11am-2pm

Brodetsky Link Chanukah Fair
December 14th- 3-5pm

WIZO - Pre-Chanukah Lunch with foot-tapping music
December 17th- 12.30 at UHC

Etz Chaim - Pre-Chanukah childrens party with fancy dress
Decmber 20th

Community Chanukah Party at MAZCC
Sunday 21 December - 10.30am-12.30pm

UHC Chanukah Treasure Hunt
Evening of December 21st

Maccabean Murder Mystery (years 9 - 11)
December 21st - 7.45pm at BHH

The Zone - 24hr Dance-A-Thon
21-22nd December - starts 10pm

LJRC- Chanukah Lighting with the Lord Mayor
December 22nd - 5pm - Civic Hall

LJI Chanukah Party
December 22nd - 7–10.30pm at MAZCC

LJHA CHANUKAH PARTY
Monday 22 December - 4pm

Etz Chaim Leisure Club Chanukah Party
December 23rd - 2pm

THE HUB CHANUKAH PARTY
Tuesday 23 December - 2pm - MAZCC

Leeds Chaverim Chanukah Party
December 23rd - 8pm

Tuesday 9 December 2008

Bobbing, Weaving & Davening…..

On 13th December, Sinai Synagogue- the Reform synagogue in Leeds- will be holding a Library minyan. It will be led by Rabbi Ian Morris who describes it thus:

This Library Minyan will be largely traditional in form, however it will contain an “explanatory” element which explores the traditional “choreography” of Jewish prayer.Where do the various bows, shuffles, standings and other twitches fit into the service? And why are they there? Ever wondered why at one point in the service some people go up on their toes, while others bow down? So have I. So please consider coming to this Library Minyan and explaining it to me…..

Speed dating in the New Year!

For all you singles out there (and yes, there are more than you think!!) LJI will be hosting a fantastic Speed Dating night and we want you to come!

Places will be limited so please get in contact ASAP if you are interested. We are looking at 2 nights in 1, an 18 - 30's and 30's + followed by a big social after

Email Natalie if you are interested (natalie@lji.org.uk) so she can start arranging! More details nearer the time...

Monday 8 December 2008

Pride Award Winners

Last Thursday night the Leeds Jewish Pride Awards took place which sought to honour the unsung heroes in our community. The winners were as follows:

  • Sportsperson- David Lee
  • LJWB Staff Member- Ray Proctor
  • Community Staff Member- Raina Sheaf
  • Business Person- Simon Cohen
  • Carer- Kay Smith
  • Neighbour- Minnie Soloman
  • Community Volunteer- Nikki Ross
  • LJWB Volunteer- Alan Davidson
  • Leeds Jewish Personality of the Year- Regina Waldman
  • Educator- Rabbi Sufrin

Well done to all the winners and the nominees. Here is to next year!

Friday 5 December 2008

Communal diary for 7th - 13th December

Please click below to enlarge:


What is change?

Here was my monthly column for the December edition of JLife (comments welcome):

“This is a great day, it's a beautiful morning, a new dawn, a new beginning.” Spike Lee's quote was just one, greeting Obama's presidency with an almost messianic fervour. But what though is real 'change'? This is an important question for a community that wants to fight the status quo and move forward. I, for one, want to register my dissent with the revolutionary view.

One of my less interesting habits is to read the Representative Council yearbooks from yesteryears. Much of what I read is exactly the same as today, giving new meaning to the phrase from Kohelet “There is nothing new under the sun”! Yet you can see that progress has been made. In 1986 Hazel Broch was calling for a community centre to be built in Leeds. Whilst there wasn't one when I first came to Leeds; today this dream is a reality.

But why does it take so long for change to happen? There is often a fit of enthusiasm to replace the 'old and stagnant' with the 'new and vibrant'. Yet rather than helping, this, with the inevitable 'doing down' of what we already have, is often the impediment to change. The ideas are rarely new, and after the initial enthusiasm has died, rarely seen through. Instead, we should recognise the wonderful facilities we already have. Only then can we ask how they can extend their reach, better meet the needs of the community and be improved.

This is where my job comes in. The strategic plan for the future of the community of 2006 was one of those 'big events' that can easily be forgotten- most of you have! Yet, as a result of it, I have been brought in to work with the community to build on what we have and fill the needs the report identified. Most of the work doesn't shout 'change' with much of it directed at building the infrastructure of the community. Other aims- such as different organisations working together- is something that should have happened all along. Yet this, rather than 'a new beginning', is what leads to real progress. After all, how can you build a large building without secure foundations?

Leeds, ghetto life and an academic paper!

There is a paper that you can find online by clicking here all about the history and sociology of Jews in Leeds. Written by Vaughan and Penn in 2001 it is titled: The Jewish 'ghetto': formation and spatial structure. It looks at the Jews of Leeds from the perspective of being an immigrant group who settled in an area of Leeds known as the Leylands. The analysis focuses on such factors as spatial segregation in the ghetto, poverty and social rank, and compares that to non-Jewish people living in the area. It asks how such an immigrant group acquires economic and social mobility.

Here is the abstract to the paper:

Research into patterns of immigrant settlement has consistently indicated that certain areas of cities are prone to settlement by immigrant groups. This paper proposes that immigrant settlement of such areas may have a particular spacial pattern. Taking the case of the settlement of Leeds, England by Jewish immigrants in the latter six decades of the nineteenth century, we describe the formation of the immigrant Jewish settlement in the area called Leylands. The paper shows first, that Leylands was spacially segregated in comparison with the city overall; and second, that the pattern of settlement was one of intensification of particular streets through time, whereby initially the main, relatively integrated streets were settled, with occupancy moving as time went on to more segregated streets.Analysis of social class defined by occupation suggests that the whole population of Leylands was much poorer than that of Leeds overall. This paper suggests that since the poverty difference was present and possibly more pronounced for the majority, non-Jewish population, that the socio-economic form of the area settlement in Leeds was more likely to have been related to its spacial segregation than to the social and economic segregation of the immigrant group. It is suggested that the particular characteristics special to certain immigrant groups allowed the Jews of Leylands to overcome their spacial segregation by employing strong social networks on the one hand and through economic mutual help on the other.

Is Jewish settlement spatially concentrated only in the early stages of settlement or later on to? Is there a change between segregation and integration over time? How can an immigrant group spatially and economically integrate? How do keep their identity as a separate group once this has been done?

The authors conclude:

it is possible to conclude that Jewish settlement is not just characterised
by the sink estate phenomenon, which may occur in the initial period of
settlement, but by the opposite phenomenon, whereby through an historical
process of economic and subsequently, spacial and social integration, an
immigrant group can improve its situation over time by maintaining spatial
concentration

LJI Chanukah Celebration



See below the flier for Leeds Jewish Initiative's Chanukah Party (click to enlarge):

Thursday 4 December 2008

December's J-Life

The Dember edition of JLife celebrates it's 2nd Birthday with a perfect party guide! If you haven't seen it already it can be picked up from Donisthorpe, The Kosherie, David Lloyd, Chalutz, Headfirst, The Zone, MAZ Centre, Street Lane Dental and Bagel Nash.

This issue contains:

  • All the latest news, photos and events from around the community
  • "Sweet Charity"- Sir Alan Sugar speaks to JLife
  • JLife Party Guide 2008- bauty, catering, light & sound, hotels and more
  • Mitzvah Day- Report on cross-communal volunteering day
  • Future Focus- Doug Krikler discussed UJIA's future plans
  • What is Change? - I talk about how the community should move forward
  • Have you seen the light?- R' Garber talks about the deeper meaning of Chanukah
  • Tasty Offerings; Dress up; party treats- More preparations for chanukah and the party season
  • Hop Island- Lynne Coates explores Jersey's short break potential and Jewish History
  • 2008 in view- a look back at a year in the Jewish Community
  • Hitting the Headlines- Interview with former Fleet Street Reporter Graham Barnes

X-Factor Charity Event

X Factor Charity Event!

Saturday 13th December 7pm - 12am

The Young Friend's of Donisthorpe are putting a charity night together to raise money for a Karaoke machine for an old peoples home. The night will combine watching the XFactor Final on a 20 foot cinema screen with a karaoke sing-a-long to the late hours. A 2 course meal will also be provided along with a welcome drink. Tickets are £15, with ALL PROFITS INCLUDING THE BAR DONATED TO THE CHARITY.

If you would like to support this event, please mail Ali Daly through facebook or alternatively call / text 07808 584 669

LJWB Chanukah Party

On Sunday 21st December 2008, 10.30am-12.00pm, at MAZCC


* Craft Activities * Gifts * Face Art *
* Balloon Modelling * Kareoke & Disco *
* Games * Magic * Candle Lighting *


Tickets £5 per family (including light refreshments)


Contact Lisa 07984 887899 / Angela 07702 665935

Wednesday 3 December 2008

Community Provision: The Kosherie

The Kosherie, as it is affectionately known, is in the heart of the Jewish community in Leeds and serves customers from all around the North of England.

A full range of Kosher products are available from fresh bread delivered daily to fresh meat and poultry delivered weekly. The range of dried, chilled and frozen goods is continually expanding as new products become available. The Kosherie prides itself as being one of the most up to date kosher retail stores in the country and strives to improve its already high standards by welcoming customer comments.
Myer's Famous Kosherie is located on Harrogate Road at Moortown Corner. You contact the shop on 0113 268 2943

SUNDAY- 8.00am TO 2.00pm
MONDAY- 9.00am TO 5.30pm
TUESDAY- 9.00am TO 6.00pm
WEDNESDAY- 9.00am TO 6.00pm
THURSDAY- 9.00am TO 6.00pm
FRIDAY- 8.30am TO 2.00pm
SATURDAY- CLOSED

Meals at MAZCC

New menus at The Vine and Oasis Cafe...

----------------------------------------------------
The Vine


MORE CHOICES, INDIVIDUAL PRICES, GREAT VALUE!

Starters:
Smoked Haddock Risotto with Poached Egg & Hollandaise £4.95
Homemade Chicken Soup with Kneidlach £3.95
Duck Confit in a Ginger & Plum Sauce £7.50
Tandoori Salmon with Spicy Mango & Cucumber Chutney £4.75
Homemade Soup of the Day £3.95
Egg & Spring Onion Salad £4
Sweet & Sour Meatballs with Rice £5
Chicken Liver Pate with Caramelised Onions & Hazlenuts £5
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Main Courses:
Mustard Glazed Chicken with Winter Vegetables £11.50
Salt Beef , Pickled Cucumber & Latkes £13
Homemade Beef Burger, Chips and Salad £9
Baked Peppers filled with Wild Mushroom & Squash Risotto £9.50
Rib Eye Steak au Poivre with Chunky Chips £14.50
Roasted Halibut Fillet with Cherry Tomatoes & Pesto £13.50
Lamb Tagine with Dates & Sweet Potatoes £12.50
Battered Haddock with Chips & Mushy Peas £7.75
Sticky Lamb Chops with Minted Pea & Tomato Relish £12.50
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Desserts:
A selection of Homemade Desserts £4.50
Fresh brewed Coffee & Mints £1.50

---------------------------------------------------------------

OASIS CAFE

Check Out Our New Menu

Featuring MOUTHWATERING ITALIAN SPECIALS
Smoked Salmon & Mushroom Linguine
Pizza with Roasted Veg & Mozzarella with Chips & Salad
Ricotta & Spinach Canneloni

----------------------------------------------------------------

WE ARE NOW OFFERING SUNDAY BRUNCH

FROM 11AM TO 3PM


Relax in the Conservatory
Meet Friends or read the Sunday Papers


Selection of fresh Ground Coffees available from £1.20


Sandwich and Bagel Bar £3.50
Select your bread from Bloomer, American Rye, Granary or White Bagel Select your filling from Chunky Egg Mayo and ChivesPoached Salmon and Watercress Tuna Mayo and Sweetcorn Cheeseslaw Add some Chunky Chips £2.25


Pizza and Salad Bar


Homemade Minestrone Soup with Bloomer Bread
Homemade Pizza £4.75
Choose from the following:
Margharita
Mushroom
Spicy Pea and Potato
Smoked Salmon and Spinach
Roasted Vegetables and Mozzarella


Freshly prepared Salad Bowl £1.50

Monday 1 December 2008

Leeds Judean Reunion

Announcing the new website to accompany the Judean Reunion that is happening on the 15th February: http://www.judeanreunited.com/ Currently under development, you will be able to keep up-to-date with preperations for the event, read press reports about the Judean Club, see old photos and read articles from the youth magazine 'Forward'.

Below is a poster for the event:

Events tomorrow...

BREAKING NEWS. Two events starting tomorrow.

MAKOR LIBRARY GOES MOBILE. From 12pm at the Oasis Cafe in the MAZ Centre you will have the opportunity to peruse and borrow some of Makor's fine collection of books, videos and DVDS.

MELTON GRADUATE PROGRAMME. Simon Myerson will be running a course on “Leviticus- Making the Dull Fascinating”. Melton is the largest pluralistic learning network in the world and this is a fabulous learning opportunity that is not to be missed.
For more information about either of these, please contact Helen Frais at helen@makor.co.uk

Communal diary- 30th Novermber- 6th December

Click to enlarge:


Thursday 27 November 2008

Organisations of the community: The Zone

The Zone is a cross-communal and all-inclusive Jewish youth organisation who cater for children aged between 5 and 18. They provide a range of exciting and inspirational activities- sports, art, drama, music, dance, Jewish identity, interfaith and more- suitable for Jewish children regardless of their background, religiosity or ability. The Zone is a real asset to the Leeds community and a shining Jewel in the crown of Northern Jewry. Newly refurbished, The Zone not only looks stunning but contains a tennis table, a computer suite, table football, a cafe, a games room, a sports hall, as well as a comfortable seating area.

With Jewish children attending a variety of schools in the area it is essential to provide and support a place for them to socialise. The Zone is this place! It is a youth centre that provides a safe, stimulating and secure place for all these children to get together, including others who have otherwise opted to leave the core community. As well as providing purely social activities, one of their objectives is to welcome children into the community to enable them to make choices about getting involved in Jewish life. Through discussion, debate and ulpan they have the opportunity to consider their Jewish identity. Their success in providing this unique balance of services can be attested to with over 400 children coming to see The Zone's new premises!
Examples of activities include:
  • Karate- work your way through the colour chart
  • StreetSound Project- record, edit and mix radio shows, podcasts, music and blogs and maybe they will appear on Radio Jcom (our community radio station)
  • Junior Football (Mini Maccabi)- start here and progress to a Maccabi team
  • Poland Trip- a trip for 15 year olds (in conjunction with Makor) allowing them to see the concentration camps and hear Holocaust Survivor Arek Hersh
  • Dinky Drama and Art- fun activities for 5 – 8 year olds
  • Fundraising- such as this year's Chanukah 24 hour Dance-A-Thon!
  • Leadership programmes- including one or many of 'Zone and Maccabi'; Duke Of Edinburgh; Millenium Volunteers; and The Arts Award

Another major plus-point of The Zone is its good working relationship and partnerships with other organisations in the community. It raises awareness of local communal organisations through its leadership programmes, puts on joint events with the Talmud Torah and is pleased to work in conjunction with the various youth movements that operate in the area. It is always willing to open its doors to be used as a venue by various groups such as the university JSoc.
To find out more and get involved email info@1zone.org.uk or call 0113 217 2532

Israeli dance sensation!

The UK's hottest young Israeli dance talent - Marcelo Marianoff from Argentina - is on a rare Northern visit!!!




Some of us already know, from meeting in London or Derbyshire, what a privilege it is to learn with this charismatic young dancer.

Where - Sinai Synagogue, Roman Avenue, Leeds LS8
When - Sunday 7th December
Cost - £12 per head with bagel lunch provided. Children half price.

You can't miss this fun-filled, vibrant workshop!

Please let us know you are coming as LIDO is catering this event through the goodwill of its members. Reply to this e-mail or call/ text Julia on 07762 059 858.

12 pm until 1 pm introductory/ beginner material and catch ups of the most popular current dances.
1-2.00 We are aiming to provide a funky session over lunch, especially aimed at the young and young at heart .
2.00 - 3.00 More teaching - mostly for intermediates
3pm onwards - PARTY TIME!! All your favourites, old and new

Wednesday 26 November 2008

Change to schedule: Etz Chaim Leisure Club

Please note a change to the advertised programme of the Etz Chaim Leisure Club.

The visit of the Grammar School musicians and singers is now on 9th December 2008

Tuesday 25 November 2008

Jewish Contribution to Leeds

The Jews (exemplified by Anglo-Jewry) have always made great contributions not only to Jewish life, but to the cities in which they inhabit. This is particularly true of Leeds as the following quote from the Thomas Jessop, Lord Mayor of Leeds in 1956 testifies. This was printed in the brochure commeorating the tercentenary of the Jews in the British Isles.

I am proud to record that during the course of my life I have had a long and happy association with members of the Jewish Community and i have never at any time regarded the Jews as a separate race, but individually and collectively, as members of one human family.

We all have most things in common and particularly when one views the position from a civic aspect. The same liberties and privileges are extended to every citizen, who in turn must recognise the responsibilities and duties which all rights inevitably bring.

Members of the Jewish Community have taken a full and important part in the administration of our City and in almost every field of voluntary endeavour......

...There is no doubt that mankind is the richer for the public service which Jews have given and are giving to the City....

The Zone Activities Report- Oct/Nov

October / November 2008 Activities Report


Club Nights
This report covers the 4 weeks from October 20th. Club has been running well and we have had many visits. To say we were closed for Chag Simchat Torah, that it was Bonfire night, 2 Speech Nights and various parent’s evenings we have had 833 visits.
Half term attracted some new members who had not realised what fabulous facilities we offer. They enjoyed projects varying from making radio programmes to Jewish based activities including cookery, art and music making. Our new members, leaders and volunteers are adding variety and excitement to our club nights.


Awards
We are so delighted to see more 16 to 18 year olds than previous years calling into club to either enjoy the facilities or help with junior activities. 2 of these volunteers were recognised by Ajex at The Memorial Service on November 11th. Hannah Schifildrin and Lauren Hamburg were given the Youth Volunteer Award this year for their continuing services at the Zone in sports and radio activities.


Karate
Many of our Karate Kids have been entered for their next belts – the colour Green. We wish them all luck as a very important “Master” visiting them from the South is assessing them.


Junior Football (Mini Maccabi)
Boys and Girls football continues to be successful and we have invited them all in on Wednesday 18th Nov to watch The England Vs Germany game on our Big Screen with older members.


Dinky Drama & Art
We have welcomed some new volunteers to this activity and are actively looking for more young budding artists, actors and actresses to join this session. If art or drama is something the young people in your family enjoy please feel free to bring them over. Every Wednesday at 4pm.


Culture
Poland trip planning is underway – 15 places booked. 5 more places available. The trip leaves February 15th . Asaf, our Shaliach, Adam from The Zone and Arik Hersh have joined forces to offer this trip. If you know any children 15 – 18 years old who would like to join us on the trip please get in touch.


Raina and Simon met with Rabbi Kleiman and representatives from Talmud Torah to plan a ‘Chanukah family day’ to be held at The Zone. This will be the first time The Zone and TT have joined forces to run an activity and we are very excited it is for Chanukah. Maybe all of us in the community will see the light and how wonderful it is when groups come together to celebrate.


The Maccabi Torch Relay will also be running Chanukah activities on December 8th at The Zone. Please come along to support our Israeli visitors.


Gymnastics
Estelle’s gym classes are full and we are delighted that Generation Zone, our Grandma’s committee are raising money at their next coffee morning towards new gym equipment. The older advanced class are going to be working towards entering competitions.


Intercity / Youth Movements
We hosted a fantastic intercity event organised by Adam Warner and Mark Fink from Habonim. Following a successful Summer, Habonim wanted to increase the momentum and develop the friendships between the children who had met on tour. Adam suggested a social event at The Zone and 55 14/15 year olds attended the very successful overnight event. We were told by youth in Manchester that they think our club is amazing and they wish they had a Zone in Manchester.


FZY have begun to use The Zone for Leadership training and we are delighted to welcome them to The Zone to run their activities. They do of course still meet in each other’s homes but the fact they have found the Zone a useful resource is great news for us. We welcome all youth movements to The Zone.


Leadership
A political themed session was held recently following the American Elections, which led onto all sorts of discussions about positive and negative influences, and people our young leaders are inspired by. There were some really interesting thoughts and we were very proud of young people’s input into the discussion. The discussion went from Barack Obama to Russell Brand,
Baby P, Duane Chambers and The Beckhams with many more besides. This led to discussing our own community leaders and why it is so important to get involved in the community from an early age and the responsibilities of community lay leadership. Whoever says that young people’s opinions don’t matter is so wrong. Our kids know what they are talking about!


Streetsound
Great work being done in Street Sound – budding new broadcasters and presenters attending all the time. We will shortly deliver a programme made by A level students to Radio Jcom to go on air and some of our 13/14 year olds made an advert in support of Zone member Andrew Abendstern who has been chosen to represent the UK basketball team at the Maccabiah Games and is looking for sponsorship. There is much more in the pipeline.


DanceAthon
Our booking forms are out! – please call The Zone if you think you can dance for an hour or more! An in-house fundraiser being organised by Adam and The Parents Committee; A 24hr non stop party involving our Young People; Toddlers to OAP’s, Volunteers and Staff. Event scheduled for Sunday 21st and Monday 22nd December – and will be part of our Chanukah programme.


Fashion & Culture
Did you know “Green is the New Black”? Well it is according to our fashion experts who spent time with leader Emma Charlton and youth volunteer
Ella Miller discussing, creating and then showing environmentally friendly fashion. This activity is of such great value as it questions the whole idea of fashion whilst incorporating art activity and discussions about different cultures including of course our very own.


Zone/JSOC
We were delighted to host our Shaliach and meet other UK Shlichim in order to develop relationships further. We also introduced Jsoc The Zone whose representatives loved it and if they can get the students to travel more then 10 minutes for a night with no beer will happily use our facility!


Café Chai
We are looking for volunteers to run Café Chai through the day for adults to come in for coffee and use our computer facilities. If you would like to run the café once a week/fortnightly or monthly please let us know.
One of our Grandparents would like to start a Jewish Book Club once a month at Café Chai to read books by Jewish Authors or with Jewish content. If you are interested or know anyone who may be please get in touch with us.


Mitzvah Day
The Zone was delighted to be a part of Mitzvah Day this year and we congratulate the organisers on a wonderful event. At The Zone we helped people in the community with computer problems and teaching them new internet skills. We also took a group of young people to help with gardening in The Queenshills.


Dates For Your Diary:


  • Generation Zone Coffee Morning November 30th at 69 Sandmoor Lane call us for details.

  • Maccabi Torch Relay – December 8th 6.30pm

  • Chanukah Family Fun Day with Talmud Torah December 14th 11-2 – come and play Who wants to Be a Chanukah Millionaire!

  • Chanukah Dance-a-thon Sunday Dec 21st – Mon Dec 22nd

  • Poland Trip for 15 to 18’s – Feb 09 – Book now – 5 places left

  • Spectacular Judean Revisited. The Judean Club Re-union. An event not to be missed – remembering all the way back through Street Lane to Barrack Road. Tickets only £12.50 – you can book yours now call 0113 2172532.

I hope you have enjoyed reading about our activities and plans.
We welcome your feedback and any suggestions you have.


Best wishes
Raina Sheaf
Chief Executive
The Zone

Monday 24 November 2008

Credit Crunch Supper at Sinai

There will be a Credit Crunch Supper at Sinai Synagogue with three courses for only £6!!! The mean will beparev/milky and you are encouraged to bring your own wine (no corking charge!)

Please book with Sinai office 0113 2665256 by Tuesday 2nd December.

Service starts at 6.30pm and meal follows at approx 7.15pm.

Yad Yosef

I just came across this piece written in 1996 when Dayan Apfel (cantor, rabbi and av bet din for many years in Leeds) published a book of his writings:

Rabbi Yosef Yehoshua Apfel, the head of Leeds Beth Din, has recently published a sefer (written in Hebrew) which is a collection of his writings over the last seventy years. I thought would that itspublication might be of interest to the readers of Mail- Jewish. Dayan Apfel a graduate of the famous Hildesheimer Rabbinical Seminary in Berlin, a Talmid Muvchak (Outstanding student) of Rabbi Yaakov Yehiel Weinberg.., work is divided into four parts. The first section consistsof responsas, (questions and answers) that Dayan Apfel corresponded with Rav Moshe Feinstein, Rav Eliasheiv , Rav Weinberg, and Rav Yitzhak Weiss(the Minchat Yitzhak) and a very interesting question about animal welfare that Dayan Apfel submitted in the nineteen thirties, when he was in living in Berlin to the Rav Nahum Weinfeld (The Hazon Nahum).

The second section consists of deveri Torah compiled from Rabbi Maimon's work, Sarei Elef. The third section consists of biographies of various great rabbis, such as Rav Yehiel Yaakov Weinberg, Rav Yosef Shaul Nathanson (The Shoel Umesheiv), Rav Moshe Sefer, Rav Yehuda Assod etc.

The last section is made up of correspondence between Dayan Apfel and various rabbinical luminaries.What is particularly interesting in this section are the letters that Rav Yehiel Weinberg sent Dayan Apfel which have never been published before.

Dayan Apfel writes in his introduction to his work, a short biography of his long productive life. He describes his early life in Sanz,Galici. Learning in a beis medrash in Sanz and receiving his first semicha at 18, and his fortunate escape from the hands of the Nazis to England in 1938 just before its gates to Jewish refugees were shut.

Dayan Apfel, a survivor from pre-world war II, Poland and Germany,writings are valuable for their historical insights and novel and decisive rulings concerning modern questions. I recommend this work to all interested in rabbinical literature.


Unfortunately, I don't think this book is still in print, and I can't find it on second-hand websites. Sounds interesting though.

A civic chanukah!

Leeds Jewish Representative Council invite you to Chanukah candle-lighting ceremony in The Banqueting Hall, The Civic Hall in the presence of the Lord Mayor of Leeds. It will be held on Tuesday 22nd December from 5pm - 6pm. Refreshments will be provided.

RSVP Michele on 2697520 or info@ljrc.org

Sunday 23 November 2008

Communal diary- 23rd - 30th November

Click to enlarge:

Organisations of the community: Leeds Maccabi

Leeds Maccabi FC runs 10 totally Jewish football teams from Under 7 through to senior level. The club now has charter status, presented at the end of season awards day, which reflects good ractises and standard in coaching, development, administration and facilities. There are now level 1 coaches at every level.

The club is giving football to every Jewish child that wants to play. Training is weekly at various indoor centres during the season September to March. New members are very welcome and vital for the continuity of the club as a Jewish community organisation.

Call Elliot Landy on 295 9803 for more information

Thursday 20 November 2008

Running rabbi!

Leed's very own student Rabbi, Alan Garber will be doing the Abbey Dash 10km run on the morning of 23rd November. He is raising funds for a local organisation, Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB). See http://www.ljwb.co.uk/

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Leeds Jewish Welfare Board gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor him now! http://www.justgiving.com/rabbialangarber

Tuesday 18 November 2008

Mitzvah Day

Last Sunday, Mitzvah Day UK happened all over the country where people were asked to give up a little of their time to do a good deed. There was a full-compliment of projects that happened here in Leeds with around 200 people taking part in the day. It pulled together people and organisations from all segments of the community, with everyone working together to make a difference.


A full update will be posted but in the meantime, here are a few of the photos:

Organiser Sara Cross, Fabian Hamilton M.P. and Sue Dorsey (president of rep council) at opening of the event:


Brownies, Guides and Rainbows ready in their art gear:



Young and old work together to fill and decorate shoeboxes full of Chanukah presents for disadvantaged children:



Teenages helping to clear up leaves outside centre:



Magician Jon Gordon entertains residents of Donisthorpe Hall at 'JFactor' Variety Show:



Monday 17 November 2008

communal diary 16th -22nd November

Communal diary (click to enlarge):


Wednesday 12 November 2008

Israeli FIlm and Supper Club: "Three Mothers"

Thursday 20th November at MAZ centre

6.45- Israeli supper (book now as places are limited)
8.00- Free entrance to award-winning film: Three Mothers

For more information about either event contact the Shaliach Asaf Segav on asaf@makor.co.uk

Plot description:

Rose, Flora and Yasmin were born as triplet s sixty something years ago in Alexandria, Egypt. Their well-off parents gave them names of flowers, and King Farouk of Egypt gave them his blessing. Today, in Israel, they live together in an apartment without men and without children. Flora has just retired from her work as a midwife, Yasmin awaits a kidney transplant, and Rose, once a successful singer, is wrapped in silence since the death of her husband. One after the other, the three sisters come to "This is your life," a place where people recount their memoirs, in order to tell their life story to Rucha (Rachel), Rose's only daughter, and talk about their symbiotic relationship. They are also searching for the long lost son of one of them who was given away for adoption under mysterious circumstances. During this period their lives and that of Rucha will change dramatically. Hidden ghosts will slowly appear, forcing the three sisters to confront the secrets and lies, and seek forgiveness. At the end of the journey into the past, after they redeem themselves, the sisters will embark on a new journey, to Alexandria, where Yasmin will undergo her kidney transplant and Rucha, who regained her own memories, will be able to start a new life.

The story the media doesn't report...

LEEDS ZIONIST FEDERATION and LEEDS MASORTI invite you to hear.....

LYDIA AISENBERG (Journalist and Educator at the Givat Haviva Institute in Israel) talking about 'Either side of the Divide': Coexistence between Jews and Arabs in Israel. This will give you a chance to hear the story that the media doesn't report!

It will be held on Monday December 1st at 8.00 p.m. at the MAZ Community Centre. All welcome

Tuesday 11 November 2008

Other people say....

Just some of the things that people say in Leeds....

  • Leeds. One of Europe's top cities for business
    Cushman & Wakefield European Cities Monitor 2007
  • Leeds. The UK's most important legal centre outside London
    UK Legal 500
  • Leeds. The most cost effective place to study in Britain
    RBS Student Living Index 2007
  • Leeds. One of the UK's top cities for restaurants
    Which? Good Food Guide 2007
  • Leeds. More public green space per child than any other city in the UK
    The Children's Society 2008
  • Leeds. The UK's most female friendly city
    Future Laboratories 'Tigra Town' Research 2006
  • Leeds. The UK's best shopping destination
    Rough Guide to Britain 2006
  • Leeds. The UK's leading centre for business and financial services outside London
    ONS Annual Business Inquiry 2005
  • Leeds. One of the top three UK cities for business outside London
    Cushman & Wakefield UK Cities Monitor 2008
  • Leeds. Voted the UK’s sexiest city
    Young Persons Railcard Poll 2005
  • Leeds. The best university destination
    The Independent 2004/5
  • Leeds. Visitor city of the year
    The Good Britain Guide 2004
  • Leeds. The best place in Britain to live
    Henley Management College 'Urban Behaviours' study

Source: www.leedsliveitloveit.com

Israeli Dancing tomorrow!

Israeli dance classes start again, tomorrow, Wednesday 12th November. Beginners
7.15pm, intermediate 8.00pm, advanced 9.00pm. At Sinai shul.

Following up from the fantastic Manchester workshop led by London
teacher Irene Copitch, we will be learning and reviewing the lastest
dances as well as traditional and simcha favourites!

Please contact julia@bjmedia.co.uk for more information

Monday 10 November 2008

Yitzhak Rabin Memorial

As you know this year is the 13th Memorial Day since the assassination of Israel's Prime Minister Yizhak Rabin. In order to commemorate Rabin's life and legacy, we are organising a 7 day exhibition at the Ziff community centre, starting this coming Thursday (13th November)for a week until Thursday (20th November).

The exhibition will show major parts of Rabin's life- work as well as how Israeli society deals with this tragedy. As part of the exhibition, there will be a Memorial dispaly in which the guests can light a candle and sign their name in the special Memorial booklet that will be sent to the Rabin Centre in Tel Aviv.

For more info, email asaf@makor.co.uk

Organisations of the Community: Leeds Chaverim



Leeds Chaverim is a simple idea. It's about a bunch of Jewish people in their 20s and 30s who are looking to add an extra Jewish dimension to their lives. Having experienced the atmosphere at Limmud, where you socialise and learn in a relaxed, friendly way, a couple of people got together to try and recreate a similar Jewish place in Leeds. Word spread and gradually the idea became a reality.

Once a month Leeds Chaverim hold a Friday night meal at someone’s house, where everyone brings along a vegetarian dish. They also assist in voluntary endeavours. The next meal is on 14th November. For more information see www.leedschaverim.co.uk or contact Simon Phillips on 07931 370791

Friday 7 November 2008

Communal diary- 9-15th November

Here is the communal diary for next week (click to enlarge):

Days Out in Leeds

Abbey House Museum

Step back in time and wander through life-like Victorian streets, seeing the high street, shops, schools and houses as they used to look like. There is also the unique opportunity to step into the pages of a nursery rhyme meeting Humpty Dumpty and seeing the house that Jack built! This interactive exhibition allows history to come to life.

Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Leeds, LS5 3EH. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and from 12 noon – 5 p.m. on Saturday. It is closed on Mondays. The admission charge is £3.50 for adults, £1.50 for children, £5 for a family and free for under 5s.

Harewood House

Harewood House, home to the Queen's cousin, the Earl of Harewood, boasts splendid State Rooms, beautiful formal gardens and relaxing woodland walks. There is plenty to do here, making it a splendid day out for all the family. For example, explore the 'Below Stairs' exhibition following in the footsteps of the staff who have serviced the House since its creation. Equally, have a look at the 'Harewood 1807' exhibit that looks out how the house was funded with money made from the West Indian sugar trade.

Harewood House, Harewood, LS17 9LG. Prices and opening times vary depending on the season. Have a look at www.harewood.org for more information.

Henry Moore Institute

The Henry Moore Institute is known internationally for its many and varied sculpture exhibitions, including both historic and contemporary sculpture. The Institute also has an active research programme and holds an extensive, specialist library.

74 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AH. Open daily from 10.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. except Wednesday when it is open until 9.00 p.m. Visit www.henry-moore-fdn.co.uk

Leeds Art Gallery

Leeds Art Gallery, located in the city centre, holds a world class collection of 20th Century British art- one of the best collections outside London. Exhibitions have included 'The great horse paintings of Stubbs”, “Artist and camera- ways of looking” and “The wonder and the horror of the human head”.

Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AA. Closed on Bank Holidays. Mon - Tues 10am - 8pm. Wed 12pm - 8pm. Thurs - Sat 10am - 5pm. Sunday 1pm - 5pm. Admission free. Visit www.leeds.gov.uk/artGallery for more information.

Leeds City Museum

A new, free, fantastic exhibition has been opened in Millenium Square with a host of permanent and exhibitions. The six permanent exhibitions include “Ancient Worlds” where you can explore the everyday life of the Greeks and Romans through the objects they left behind. Also, in “Life on Earth” you get to explore our planets history over the last 540 million years. Temporary exhibitions include 'Eating Creepy Crawlies”; and there will be one on faiths in the city which will include a section on the Jewish community.

Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH. Closed Mondays except bank holidays (11am - 4pm). Tue, We, Fri 11am - 6pm. Thurs 11am - 8pm. Sat and Sun 11am – 5pm. Visit: www.leeds.gov.uk/cityMuseum

Lotherton Hall

This is an Edwardian country house, formerly belonging to the Gascoigne family, and is a treasure trove of arts, crafts and music. Come visit the exhibitions before walking through the formal, wooded and wildflower gardens. Lotherton Hall is surrounded by a red deer park and bard gardens which houses an important collection of rare and endangered species.

Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB. Admission is to the house is £3.00 for adults and £1.00 for children (accompanied by an adult). Visiting the grounds is free. See www.leeds.gov.uk/lothertonhall

Middleton Railway

Opened in 1758, Middleton Railway is celebrating 250 years of continuing operation. This, the oldest working railway, runs into Middleton Park at the edge of Yorkshire's largest ancient forest. The trains, departing every forty minutes) are hauled by both steam and diesel locomotives (the former is usually on a Sunday and the latter usually on a Saturday.

Moor Road Station, LS10 2JQ. Adult- £4.50, Child- £2.50, Family (2 adults, 3 children)- £12. Visit www.middletonrailway.org.uk

Royal Armouries

Housed in a multi-million pound, purpose based building, is a large part of the national collection of arms and armouries. Tour through the five galleries- war, tournament, oriental, self-defence and hunting- and see over 8500 objects. There is a lot more to do with falconry shows, horse shows and real jousting!

Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, LS10 1LT. Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Entrance is free but some events may charge. www.royalarmouries.org

Temple Newsam House and Estate

Referred to as “the Hampton Court of the North”, this great English country house is set in grand and beautiful parkland with one of the largest, working rare breed farms in Europe. The house is famous as the birth place of Lord Darnley, notorious husband of Mary, Queen of Scots. In this Tudor-Jacobean mansion, there lies a wonderful collection of fine and decorative arts including paintings, furniture, silver, ceramics, textiles and wallpapers. After exploring the house, view the rare breeds and explore the park and woodland.

Temple Newsam House, Temple Newsam Road, Off Selby Road, LS15 0AE. The admission charge is £3.50 for adults, £2.50 for children and £9.00 for families. Closed Mondays except bank holidays (10.30am - 4pm). Tue - Sun 10.30am - 4pm. Last admission 45 mins before closing. Visit: www.leeds.gov.uk/templeNewsamhouse

Thackray Museum

“Telling the story of medicine” in a fun, stimulating way. Visit one of Thackray's many exciting exhibitions. For example, in as “Leeds 1842” experience the sights and sounds of Victorian Leeds! In this hands-on exhibition you can choose one of the characters and see whether they survive Victorian healthcare. Another example is “Hannah Dyson's Ordeal” where you get to experience the horrors of 1820s surgery. As well as exhibitions there are medical collections, libraries, shop and cafeteria.

Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN. Open daily 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Prices are £5.50 for adults, £4.50 for concessions and £4.00 for children. A family ticket is available for up to 2 adults and 3 children for £18.00. Visit www.thackraymuseum.org

Thwaite Mill

“Feel the force of nature and see life how we used to live!” Visit a fully restored, working watermill 'nestled' on an island between the River Aire and the Aire and Calder Navigation. Prebook a tour that will take you round the mill, waterwheel, industrial machinery, engineers workshops, the riverbanks and wildlife. Also, visit “Thwaite House”- a Grade 2 listed Georgian House where the mill manager used to live. See how they managed to live self-sufficiently on the island.

Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP. Call 0113 2762887 to prebook visit. See www.leeds.gov.uk/thwaitemills

Tropical World

A realistic atmosphere of the tropics is created in Roundhay Park in Leeds! Enter different houses and see colourful fish, tropical cacti, different species of butterfly; as well as many other species you would be more likely to see in South America than here. The whole environment is recreated including features such as waterfalls and swirling pools.

Roundhay Park, Leeds, LS8 2ER. Open 10.00 a.m. until early evening. Ring 0113 2370754 for more details. Admission charges apply.

Thursday 6 November 2008

Remberance Sunday: AJEX service

Leeds AJEX Memorial Service

This Sunday coming is Remembrance Sunday remembering the sacrifices of the armed forces and civillians in times of war, specifically since the first world war. Please come along and support this event that the Association of ex-Jewish service men and women (AJEX) are putting on in the Jewish community. Details below-

Date: Sunday 9th November

Venue: B.H.H. Synagogue grounds

March past- Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire and Lord Mayor of Leeds: 2.55pm

Service: 3.00pm

Light refreshments and presentations to youth: 3.30pm

Organisations of the community: Neshama


We can all, without even realising, suffer some form of mental distress. At times like this, we are all in need of support and advice. Neshama offer a free, confidential Counselling Service for those people who are going through difficult or distressing times, in a way that;s culturally sensitive to the community's needs.

NESHAMA aims to help Jewish people between the ages of 16-60 who require support. It is managed by Janine Field and supported by a fully qualified Social Work team. Each worker works individually with service users to offer a comprehensive package of care and support.

They also run art therapy sessions, outreach support and provide supported housing. If you require any of these service, please contact Janine Field on 0113 269 4211 or email janine.field@ljwb.co.uk

Wednesday 5 November 2008

November's JLife

The November edition of JLife is out- the monthly glossy news and lifestyle magazine for Leeds 17 and the Leeds Jewish community. If you haven't seen it already it can be picked up from Donisthorpe, The Kosherie, David Lloyd, Chalutz, Headfirst, The Zone, MAZ Centre, Street Lane Dental and Bagel Nash. Alternatively, check it out online at http://www.jlifeleeds.com/

This issue contains:

News, pictures and upcoming events from around the community
A journey to Poland's past and present- a look at the five-day journey to Poland with Arek Hirsh, holocaust survivor, being planned by Makor, The Zone and the Jewish Agency
Food and Drink Guide '08- 4 page guide to best dining out spots in your area
Style and substance- looking at Milan's Jewish history as well as its sites and culture
Plan of Action- the 'interview in focus' with.. well... ME! :-)
Gifts Galore- a look at inspired gift ideas for Chanukah, whatever your budget
...and lots more with lifestyle, fashion, body matters and film reviews

Leeds' Personalities: Selig Brodetsky

SELIG BRODETSKY

•Born in Olviopol in Ukraine
•Much of his work was on the mathematics of aeroplanes! He also wrote books on scientific figures such as Isaac Newton.
•After lecturing at Bristol university, he arrived in Leeds in 1920 where he remained until 1948. He was to be appointed ‘Chair of Applied Mathematics’
•He joined the Zionist Synagogue in Brunswick Street, set up the Zionist Council and organised the first visit of Dr. Chaim Weizmann to Leeds
•Positions held include: President of Leeds B’nai Brith, President of Hebrew University, as well as being on the executive of the World Zionist organisation
• Has the Jewish primary school in North Leeds named after him as well there being the annual "Selig Brodetsky memorial lecture" at the University of Leeds.

Tuesday 4 November 2008

Leeds Jewish Pride Awards

Leeds Jewish Pride Awards

Celebrate the unsung heroes of our community by voting in the Leeds Jewish Pride Awards 2008. Cast your votes at www.leedsjewishprideawards.co.uk/finalists.asp and remember to do it by the 26th November

The nominations are:

Business Person
•Diane Saunders ("Always there to help with people's problems in all walks of life")
•Emilie Carrie ("A great role model for young Jewish business person")
•Simon Cohen ("Young, vibrant entrepeuneur with charisma & great business idea")

Carer
•Barbara Berson ("For single-handedly caring for her husband full time at the age of 78")
•Kay Smith ("Gives her best at all times to all people")
•Tracey Sapier ("Will go anywhere and do anything if it's a chance to make things better")

Community Staff Member
•Raina Sheaf ("Does fantastic work for the youth with her Zone work")
•Sara Wilcock ("Always got a smile when running the me and my parent class")
•Sharon Bedford ("Does her job well. It's nice to have someone who cares")

Sports Person
•Bradley Wine ("Enthusiastic, determined, fantastic team player - supports Jewish teams")
•David Lee ("Very good at table tennis. Gives 100 per cent")
•Oliver Ziff ("Excellent triathlon athlete- dedicated to his studies and community work")

Community Volunteer
•Nikki Ross ("Commitment beyond the call of duty")
•Rosalind Peters ("Gives generously of her time and also financially without asking for reward and recognition")
•Sagi Yechezkel ("Does so much for the people around him and cares that everyone is happy")

Educator
•Becky Teiger ("Puts so much effort and dedication into her work and pupils")
•Rabbi Sufrin ("Respectful of all whatever their needs")
•Simon Camby ("He has almost single-handedly given Brodetsky the breath of life again")

Leeds Jewish Personality of the Year
•Francine Levin ("Granted the wishes of thousands of children as founder of Make A Dream charity")
•Hilda Mitchell ("Always sees the positive side to everything")
•Regina Waldman ("Works constantly for the good of many charities and has energy well beyond her years")

LJWB staff member
•Avril Gaunt ("Very caring person, sets an example to all the Board")
•Judi Frankenthal ("Provides a superb quality service to those she works with, serves and feeds"
•Ray Proctor ("A very cheerful and helpful gentleman")

LJWB Volunteer
•Alan Davidson ("Unsung hero")
•Bernice Pearlman ("Is always tehre, gives freely of her time")
•Hilda Mitchell ("A true inspiration who would be hard to replace")

Neigbour
•Denise Surr ("Kindness and support of many in time of need")
•Minnie Solaman ("Loving, caring and always there")
•Nicole Myerson ("Always willing to help")