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Whats what’s inside.... LOOKING FORWARD | LOOKING BACK | HMD 2011 | MITZVAH DAY 2010 | AND MORE

WWW.SUSSEXJEWISHNEWS.COM | £2 | JANUARY 2011 | TEVET/SHEVAT 5771 • ISSUE 204 2 Pause for thought 3

January, named after a Roman mythological god, From a religious perspective we look back as Brighton Janus, is often depicted as having two heads facing & Hove Hebrew Congregation celebrated the induction opposite directions with one looking back at the past of Rabbi Rader and Brighton & Hove Progressive and the other looking forward to the future. Synagogue happily marked ten years with Rabbi Sarah as its spiritual leader. Looking forward this month Looking back last year was not a happy one for Israel not only finds us completing our cycle of haftarah with its image in the world at a possible all-time commentaries, but also holds the celebration of a low and the peace process at stalemate. Months new Torah Scroll being welcomed at Hove Hebrew of relentlessly high temperatures and no rain were Congregation. followed by a real disaster: As a community we can look back on Still, looking back on unprecedented the nation’s favourite raging forest fires. Mitzvah Day and all that we did to bring topic – the weather – we Following the vast ourselves closer together. look back on how Britain destruction and was rocked and almost 41 deaths, we now look forward to Tu B’Shevat, the brought to a standstill by cruelly cold weather and the new year for trees which falls on 20th January, and pray worst snowfalls for many years. that it heralds an environmental renewal. Again we look forward to the days getting longer with As a community we can look back on Mitzvah Day the promise of more light. We hope that the cold, harsh and all that we did to bring ourselves closer together. winter will be followed by a warm, gentle summer when Looking forward to later this month, on National we in Sussex can continue to count our blessings, Holocaust Memorial Day we commemorate and make the most of every day and be of practical help contemplate on all that the Jewish people and the to our own community as well as to our wider family in world have lost. Israel.

SJN brings local news, events, articles, reviews, Administrator Ivor Sorokin announcements, people, congregations, communitites, contacts and more. Delivered at the start of each month, Admin Assistant Gweni Sorokin SJN is run entirely by volunteers for reporting, editing and circulating each edition that has become the cornerstone of Community Issues Laura Sharpe the Jewish community across the region. Communal Diary Angela Goldman [email protected] Photographer Sophie Sheinwald EDITORIAL BOARD E-Publishing Gary Weston Doris Levinson / Stephanie Megitt / Ivor Miskin / David Seidel PRODUCTION/LAYOUT Anand Day

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issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 2 Contents 3

Sussex Jewish News PO Box 2178 FEATURES Hove BN3 3SZ 1 yaD VASHEM’S HALL OF NAMES Telephone: 07906 955 404 8 community PROFILE e-mail [email protected] Meet Anthony Bloom

9 holocaust MEMORIAL DAY 2011 A listing of this year’s events

10 mitzvah DAY 2010 Cakes and wildlife

REGULARS 4 your NEWS & VIEWS Personals and Letters

5 community LIFE News from across the county

11 culture Film and more

11 what JANUARY HOLDS Astrologer Val Aviv looks at the stars 14 culture Film and more

19 what’S ON Regular and special events in your community YOUR COMMUNITY Norman Grant 12 hove Hebrew Congregation of Gary Green Memorials 13 brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue The Approved Mason for the 14 brighton & Hove Reform Synagogue B & H Reform Community and all Jewish Cemeteries Countrywide 15 brighton & Hove Hebrew Congregation Renovations and Additional Inscriptions Home Visits by Appointment Brochure on request 01273 885874 mobile: 0776 951 5045 [email protected]

Full page (A4 size) £160 Sussex Jewish News (‘SJN’), its Editor and Editorial Board: Half page (A5 size) £90 • are not allied to any synagogue or group and the views expressed by writers are Quarter page (A6 size) £50 not necessarily those of SJN; • accept advertisements in good faith but do not endorse any products or 1/9 page (credit card size) £35 services and do not accept liability for any aspect of any advertisements; and Personal: £4 per line • welcome readers’ contributions but reserve the right to edit, cut, decline or submit the content to others for comment. Flyers: Price on application To ensure that we receive your submissions by email, please send them ONLY to Local Jewish charities will not be charged, subject to [email protected], otherwise we cannot guarantee their consideration for publication. To assist the Editorial Board, submissions should be in Word format editorial decision. using Times New Roman as a font. Receipt of submissions may not be acknowledged, BOOK NOW! 07906 955 404 unless specifically requested. As the Editorial Board is made up entirely of volunteers, [email protected] any response may be subject to delay. ADVERTISING ADVERTISING IN SJN GUIDELINES

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com Your news 4 & views Letters 5

Edmundo Ros Abrahams and his wife Irit, Births as with others too many to • Mazel tov to Rabbi Zalman and Shterna Lewis on the birth mention, in the Brighton & of Yaakov Bentzion. You may be interested to know that Mr Edmundo Ros Hove Jewish Community. OBE was 100 years old on I know this is a bit belated Special birthdays 7th December. but I felt it was necessary • Mazel tov to David Black, Reaca Branston, Clare Driver, to relate this sad event to Paul Feinson, Melanie Firsht, Miriam Flexer, Muriel Lewis, Throughout his exceptionally the many people who would Berny Lowenthal, Annette Norris, Victoria Pashaei-Nia, successful career, Edmundo have known him. Eva Carris Smith and Solomon Tarragano, all of whom are proved to be an outstanding celebrating special birthdays this month. friend to the Jewish Tony Green Community. In fact, soon Engagements after arriving in the UK to • Mazel tov to Saonie Lyons and Jeremy Crown on their study music at the Royal The media, the Middle engagement. Academy he was so warmly East and Israel welcomed by members Special Anniversaries of the Jewish Community I noticed a letter in the SJN • Mazel tov to Sioned and Peter Vos on their 35th wedding that he quickly developed a with concern raised on how anniversary. strong affinity with them. He to handle data about Israel. also forged close friendships I highly recommend the Get Well with many prominent Jewish Honest Reporting website We wish a refuah shelaimah to Joy Barnett, Sally Crook, Pam figures of the day. for any concern on the Magrill, Ivor Miskin, Barry Smith, Edella Sutcliffe and Cecily Middle East situation is being Woolf. One of the many charitable reported in the media. acts Edmundo performed was for the then Brighton & HonestReporting was Achievements Hove Jewish Home, of which founded by a group of It is with great joy that we wish to inform you that our he became an honorary life concerned individuals beloved daughter Faye has qualified as a Medical time governor. Edmundo who affiliate neither to the Consultant in emergency medicine. was sometimes to be seen right nor to the left. The Lynda & Simon Weinberg amongst the congregation organization is interested of the late Rabbi Dr Louis only in ensuring that Israel Jacobs and in our own receives the fair media Thank You home, regularly joined in coverage that every nation We would like to thank our wonderful family and very Friday night kiddushim. deserves. HonestReporting special friends for their love and support during Bernie’s scrutinizes the media for recent bout of ill health. He is now on the road to recovery Edmundo is now living in a examples of bias, and then and we so appreciate the kindness shown to us during this care home in Javea, Spain informs subscribers of worrying time. close to the lovely villa where any problematic articles, Doreen and Bernie Walker he lived with his wife Susie asking them to respond for many years. directly to the relevant news Deaths agency. This is not merely We wish long life to Gerry Crest an information service - it’s • the family of David Benzecrit z”l a way we can respond to • the family of Deborah Boder z’l the media in an informed, • the family of Monte Boam z’l Stan Green coordinated fashion. So • the family of Stanley Green z’l. 1936 -2010 far, they have had a lot • the family of Elizabeth (Betty) Harris z’l’ of success in getting news agencies to change • the family of Rosa Kent z’l It is with regret that I editorial policy, and to think • the family of Edna Roseman z’l announce the death of my twice before publishing an • the family of Myra Bedford (previously Jackson), mother of brother Stanley Green in unbalanced report. Virginia Craig and Avril Leon (previously Myers) Vancouver BC on the 8th of November 2010. Stan would To register with Stonesetting – Nina Franks z”l have been remembered by honestreporting.com and many of your older readers. receive their user-friendly The memorial stone in loving memory of Nina Franks will He was quite well known communiques, visit be consecrated at Meadow View Cemetery, off Bear Road, around town prior to his honestreporting.com, or send Brighton BN2 4DE on Sunday, 2nd January 2011 at 2.00 move to Canada in 1975 with a blank email to hreporting@ pm. Please join the family afterwards. For details, please his late wife Paula & children list.netatlantic.com contact [email protected] Damon and Shelley. They or [email protected] were very friendly with Roger Sophie Sheinwald

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 4 Community life 5 Eastbourne Hebrew Jewish Historical Society Congregation by David Melcher by Manny Godfrey On a cold and frosty night, Rabbi Hershel Rader gave a talk to the society on Rationalising the Miracle of Chanukah.

The reason that the celebrations go on for 8 days is that the first day is to celebrate the victory over Antiochus and the remaining seven days are to celebrate the miracle of the oil.

Another theory, put forward in the first Book of Maccabees is that the Jews were unable to celebrate Succot in the Temple at the proper time, but they celebrated it when the Temple had been cleansed and rededicated. Rabbi Rader pointed out that as we do not know who wrote the Books of the Maccabees, we cannot place any reliance on this theory. Interested questions were put to the Rabbi , one being on the significance of light in the Temple. (l to r) Glen Scrivener, James Smith, Rev Malcolm Weisman, Rev Peter Owen-Jones, Lynda Lindfield,A bdel Rahim and Tony Lobl at EHC The next meeting of the Society will be held at the Ralli Hall on Tuesday 25th January 2011 when Dr Sam Barsam, In support of the aims of National Inter-Faith Week, Board of Deputies Defence Committee, will talk on The Eastbourne’s Faiths Forum held a Question Time event Enlightenment. at the Winter Garden. The panel was chaired by the Rev Peter Owen-Jones and six different religious faiths were represented by the Rev Malcolm Weisman (Judaism), Abdel Rahim (Islam), Glen Scrivener (Christian Churches), James AJEX Smith (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints), Lynda by Judy Gabriel, PRO Brighton & Hove Branch Lindfield (Paganism) and Tony Lobl (Christian Science).

Questions were submitted by members of the audience and covered a wide range of religious issues. It was no surprise that the answers were as diverse as the representative faiths, but if there was one theme that emerged, it was respect for the people and beliefs of all religions. Unfortunately, there was not enough time for discussion or supplementary questions from the floor, but audience members were able to chat to individual panelists at the end of the meeting.

Ronnie Taylor, Chairman of the Eastbourne Hebrew Congregation, found the Forum very interesting and hoped that the different faiths in the Eastbourne Community would have a better understanding of each other’s religions, which might lead to more tolerance and respect. (l to r) Bert Gabriel with our banner, Angie Morland, Elaine Rose, Lt. Commander Jack Rose and Bernard Frost at Horseguards Parade The London Remembrance Parade and Rally, on 21st November went very well with attendance of about 300 including a good number of younger people. Our group may be small but those that do go find it a very moving Bereaved and seeking friendship and worthwhile experience. On behalf of everyone we are indebted both to Helping Hands, who let us use their bus, and support from others in the and to Gary Weston, who very kindly did all the driving.

same situation? The Holocaust Memorial Service at Bear Road will be held at 11.00 am on Sunday 30th January. Please try to attend. Contact Susan Sheftz on Finally, the AJEX Music Quiz, presented by Stewart 01273 279745 or e-mail Macintosh, will now be held at AJEX Hall on 6 February at [email protected] 1.00 pm and will include lunch. Call Aubrey on 737417 to book your place.

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 6 Community life 7 Worst fire in Israel’s history Brighton and Sussex JSoc causes evacuation of Yemin by Sigal Spirman Orde from Brighton & Hove Youth Aliyah Committee

At least 40 people were killed when a massive forest fire spread from Israel’s northern city of Haifa into the surrounding hills and incinerated a bus carrying prison guards. It was the deadliest fire in Israel’s history, according to rescue workers, who struggled to contain flames that raged late into the night.

The students of Yemin Orde, our Youth Village situated close to Haifa, were preparing to celebrate the second night of Chanukah when the whole village was evacuated on an emergency basis.

“Many of our youngsters who have already survived tragedy and trauma, often of the worst order, have had yet again experienced deep shock. Memories of loss, pain and fear are JSoc Joins Mitzvah Day never far away from our students,” said Director Dr. Benny As part of his programme to meet with the diverse ethnic The Fisher of Yemin Orde, “but a forest fire of such proportions autumn term has seen many developments. Following the big engulfing our village is simply dreadful. Many were crying, social in week one, a balance of spiritual, fun, socially active, others were just stunned and very difficult to get out of the educational, and purely recreational activities took place. The room”. weekly Soul Food lunch and learn sessions gathered a strong “As yet, it cannot be determined when we will be back in our following, while Shabbat dinner continues to be a success. houses, when classes will resume and what the exact extent of the damage is that has been caused. There will be a huge As the new committee has now fully taken over, JSoc has amount of work to be done, both with the children and at the instituted new weekly members’ newsletters, planned village”, added Susan Weijel, Director of Outreach. The forest social events and developed stronger links with UJS, UJC, fire had already devastated nearly a thousand hectares (2,470 Jeneration, as well as the local Jewish community. acres). The presidential UJS debate came to Sussex campus for the last elections, and Marcelle Jennings, a University of A steady stream of cars, police vehicles, fire trucks and Sussex sociology student, ran as one of the two candidates. ambulances crowded the road leading out of Yemin Orde and Moreover, the new Hillel House on Middle Street is due to be Ein Hod, the artists’ village opposite. Sirens sounded and ready next term as the venue for future events and Shabbat shouts from the megaphone filled the air. “Get out of here -- dinners. quickly! The flames are coming!” Brighton and Sussex JSoc traditions have continued. It was noted that staff were absolutely tremendous. They November’s Mitzvah Day proved to be a great success: JSoc remained calm and supportive to each and every child. They is looking forward to working with Helping Hands again, and continued to do their utmost to ensure that the children felt engaging with the local Jewish community. The day left all the safe and cared for. students in a joyous mood. Chaim Peri, Founder of Yemin Orde wrote that at least 20 For the first time in years Chanukah fell during term-time and buildings, including staff and children’s homes, the library and more were lost. The Village was now uninhabitable and he so students celebrated together before the winter break. was operating from Yemin Orde Initiative’s sister village Neveh With a candle-lighting and latke-eating session to start off Amiel, while the army searched for an installation where the the week and a Chanukah party in one of the local bars to entire Village could stay together until its home on the Carmel end it, JSoc found many ways to conclude the term with was rehabilitated. Jewish celebrations as snow hit Brighton. Rabbi Avi Neuman, the Southern Coast chaplain, concluded: “Our first term in Liz Posner, Chairman of the Brighton & Hove Youth Aliyah Brighton has been really sweet. Committee, would be pleased if all donations towards the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Yemin Orde, in the first The students are open and vibrant, and I believe that the instance be sent to her, and addressed to Youth Aliyah Child relatively small size of the JSoc adds an intimacy - lends a Rescue, c/o Flat 18 Baltimore Court, 74 The Drive, Hove BN3 feeling of family. Hopefully we’ll explore that more together in 3PR. the coming term.”

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 6 Community life 7 Ralli Hall Lest we forget – on two by Roger Abrahams, Hon Chairman accounts by Sidney Lipman

The Ralli Hall Jewish For many decades ex-Servicemen and Women have paid Film Club held its tribute to those who have fallen in conflict when serving their third session last country by taking part in the Annual Parade in the Old Steine, month with a Sing- Brighton and elsewhere in the country. Along with Fiddler on the Roof. It was This year, I received a personal invitation to another service, a great success but with a greater significance to me, as it was from the and Irit and I look Downs Junior School, who not only received an historical lesson in an important part of our history, but in the effect and forward to the Club’s consequences which followed. its 2011 programme. This year, the Royal British legion, in conjunction with the school and others, provided marquees for all against the The toilet for the inclement weather. The service was attended by the Lord disabled is ready for Lieutenant of East Sussex, the Mayor, the Mayoress, the High use, complete with Sheriff, civic and ecclesiastical dignitaries. The playground a baby changing was ringed with many coloured standards. The programme facility. Work on included wreath-laying by the children who recited poems the ladies’ toilets is and sang popular songs from WW11 in perfect harmony. under way. I was very impressed by the military precision of the whole Golda & Tevye Sorokin sing-a-long at Ralli Hall event and mainly by the transformation of the school hall. This was decorated with a multiple arrangement of red Suzanne Collins will be taking well-earned retirement from streamers suspended from a high point with down-drops the end of next March we sincerely hope that the right person bearing many large poppies. (The organisers at the Albert Hall will come along to take over this most important post. The should look to their laurels!) The atmosphere was further Lunch Club is most important to a good number of our Senior enhanced by the ladies, bless’em, who provided everyone Citizens, providing an essential service to our Community. with a smile plus hot soup!

Membership renewal forms will be sent to all members We should also remember the present conflict as, last week, within the next few weeks as our membership year will re- we read of Platoon Commander Lt Craig Shepherd who, with his brave men of the Grenadier Guards, fought off the Taliban commence at the beginning of January. Membership fees for six weeks in an isolated compound where they were are not changing from last year. Those who are currently attached day and night. At one stage, the enemy were so not members are invited to join us. Membership forms are close that soldiers were ordered to fix bayonets. available from the office – please either pop in or phone 01273 202254. See you at Ralli Hall. The enemy were finally repelled, all without loss, and the platoon returned to the UK. For his prompt actions, extreme bravery and leadership in saving his patrol, Lt Shepherd was WIZO Quiz on 12 February 2011 awarded the Military Cross. Please remember this. The quiz@home has been running successfully for over 5 years. Would you like to host a team at your house? You feed your guests whatever you choose and ask for a suggested donation of £15 per person.

All the quiz materials are sent you to you by post & you have from 7.30pm on 12 February 2011 to 10.30pm to answer as much as you can & enter all your answers online.

The results are displayed by 11pm. All passwords and logging on information are supplied. You will just need computer access & a CD player. It is a fun evening that you can do at your own pace amongst your friends and family. The winning team last year came from Oxford WIZO, perhaps you could be a winner in 2011?

If you would like to register please supply your home address and telephone contact details & let me know approximately how many people would be on your team.- email nicky@ wizouk.org Sidney Lipman with the Mayor and Mayoress

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 8 Community profile 9

Anyone who has driven past the Falmer stadium site cannot fail Anthony is aged 40 to have been hugely impressed by the sheer magnificence of by Ivor Sorokin the building, which is a smaller version of the Olympic Stadium I chatted with in Sydney, Australia. It is really set to become an iconic part Anthony at of the Brighton and Hove area. Hopefully, the stadium will his parents’ house concerts and conferences, and of course “Albion in the lovely home Community” will play a major part in local charities events. in Tongdean Road, Hove Tony recently completed the first Brighton Marathon in 3 hours where he 57 minutes, famously winning a large bet that he would do the stays when run in under 4 hours, thereby raising £150k for the Rockinghorse he comes Appeal, enabling them to contract a new respite care wing in down to Woodingdean for the families of terminally-ill children. B r i g h t o n His involvement in betting has spread to a love of horseracing in order to and he has a stable of very promising racehorses. check on the progress of his wonderful project – the magnificent stadium at Falmer, soon to be the new home of Brighton & His mathematical skills have also elevated him to the top rank Hove Albion Football Club. of world-class poker players and, anyone watching the poker championships on Sky Sports will probably have seen Tony, Anthony is now aged 40, was brought up in Hove, educated “the Lizard” in daredevil action, having won two very major at St Christopher’s School and Lancing College, prior to events. In December we spent six nail-biting hours from 7.00 graduating with a First in Maths at Manchester University. His pm to 1.00 am watching him in the televised final of the $1 first job was working as an accountant in London subsequently million championships, reaching the final two out of the eight joining Victor Chandler in Gibraltar. His entrepreneurial spirit finalists, but losing out to the winner with the turn of just one led him to setting up a betting company ‘Premierbet’ which card. he subsequently sold to go on to other betting, business and property interests. Now a family man, married to Linda and father of 2-year old Joshua, Tony is no longer willing to travel the world on the His family have always been strong Albion supporters, notably poker circuit, so he now spends half the year in his North his grandfather, Harry, who was vice-chairman in the days of London home and the other half in Melbourne, Australia, from Mike Bamber and Brian Clough. Uncle Ray is still on the board, where Linda hails. and Tony is of course chairman. My interview with Tony left me with the strong impression that It is well documented that the finance for the new Amex here is a truly modest, highly successful young man, but most Community Stadium at Falmer was arranged by Tony, and it of all, of a real “mensch”. is really doubtful whether the stadium would have ever been able to be built had Tony not opted in. At the present time the RALLI HALL LUNCH & SOCIAL CLUB Albion is sitting proudly at the top of the League Table. Is it a pipe dream to hope that the first game, in August 2011, will be Part Time Co-ordinator Required in the Championship League? Our present Lunch Club Co-ordinator, Suzanne Collins, will be retiring early this year and a replacement will be required to run the very successful Ralli Hall Lunch & Social Club.

The appointment is part time - 2.5 days per week (18 hours) at a starting salary of c. £10,500 per annum. Whilst understanding and experience of working with elderly people is desirable, good interpersonal skills and commitment to the job are of paramount importance. Full “on the job” training will be available to the selected candidate. There is a full team of experienced volunteers already in place to provide support and back-up.

This is an exciting opportunity for the right person to continue to provide a stimulating environment for our senior citizens, offering a creative programme of activities that will promote independence, combat social isolation and maintain elderly people in their own homes.

Please apply in writing with a CV to: Lunch Club Management Committee Brighton & Hove Jewish Centre, 81 Denmark Villas, Hove BN3 3TH

Closing date for applications: 15th January 2011

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 8 9

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com 10 mitzvah DAY 2010 11

delivered them to Brighton. Hospital and Cakes across the On the morning of Mitzvah Day, children residents of Hyman community from the BHHC and BHRS Chederim Fine Home. decorated and wrote mitzvah messages We also had a team making sandwiches from Helping Hands on white cake boxes. and putting cakes on plates for the Rabbi Avi Neuman, afternoon tea, which was attended by the UJC Chaplin, approximately 140 people of all ages his wife Debbie and including the elderly, students, young their girls, along children and their parents, as well as with JSoc students, residents of Tikvah and the Hyman Fine some teenagers and Home. There was a magic show, after other community which one of the students played the volunteers, packed piano. After all the fun was over we took each box with three the surplus food to St Patrick’s, our 3 cupcakes with the local shelter for the homeless. message “Enjoy your cakes, thinking of We send a big thank you to all our you”. volunteers for their amazing help. Helping Hands Mitzvah day in Brighton HH volunteers and the students Some were volunteering for the first & Hove was a big success. Our slogan delivered over 100 cake boxes across time. Everyone loved Mitzvah day, was “Cakes across the Community.” the community to the housebound, because it connected people across the A volunteer collected 400 cupcakes patients in Royal Sussex County community. from Grodzinski in Golders Green and

house and the hospital to food growing and Embracing the deliver cakes to those who Mitzvah Day appreciation of wildlife. were not able to make it to More accustomed to Jewish value the tea. at BHPS supporting troubled of giving back Ellen Segalov, in charge of by Marguerite Wright teenagers, the Project’s Education and Social Action from the Brighton & Sussex organisers were impressed for the Brighton and Sussex JSoc Determined to give more with our efficiency as JSoc said, “Thanks to all the than money and verbal a whole new plot was great work by Helping Hands support to the wider local terraced for planting while Sunday 21 November was there was plenty of worthwhile non-Jewish community, the younger members this year’s Mitzvah Day. With things for us to be involved 15 members of Brighton of the group weeded an the theme of “Cakes across with. It was amazing that & Hove Progressive existing vegetable plot and the community”, Brighton and whilst we were supposed to Synagogue, ages spanning planted garlic cloves. Sussex JSoc teamed up with be the ones doing the mitzvah 70 years, went out and did Energy was restored over Helping Hands to do just that. we all had such an enjoyable things a little differently on lunch with vegetables Twelve members of the local afternoon and got to chat with November 21st. grown on site, cooked universities’ Jewish Society some fascinating people both On Mitzvah Day, when on and eaten round the volunteered for the day’s at the team at Hyman Fine actions speak louder than campfire before tackling events to show the essence of House and even the people words, the hardy bunch an even more challenging the Jewish communal spirit: we visited at the hospital. It of from BHPS met in the woodland area. transgressing generational was great to spend some time woods to donate time and A tour of the site, including gaps. with the rest of the Brighton energy to Moulsecoomb the beehive, thatched The day began at 12:30 pm community and we hope Forest Garden and Wildlife roundhouse and clay pizza with members of the JSoc see a lot more of this in the Project which operates on oven, confirmed that this and Helping Hands meeting future.” former derelict allotments was an ambitious and up with the children of the What may have began as a in one of Brighton’s least worthwhile cause. community to wrap and day of simple volunteering affluent areas. The Project decorate cakes in the AJEX continued into pure has social, community and Centre. As the day continued, enjoyment. By the end, the environmental benefits, the team split up. Some students were dancing with working with local residents stayed for the tea party, where the children, mingling and who volunteer, school the communities’ elders and hearing the adults’ stories, pupils, young people residents of the Tikvah home and one student shared his having problems at school where brought together for passion as a musician by and people with learning a lunch and magic show. playing the piano for the difficulties, to give an Others went to Hyman Fine versatile audience. experience of sustainability,

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com Culture 11 Freedom begins with an act of Defiance by the Sussex Jewish Film Club Planning Group After our fun evening in December we return to a more singing along with Fiddler on the Roof, serious subject for our January screening. You’re invited to come and see the American film Defiance on Sunday, 23rd January at Ralli Hall. This movie, starring If you’re not yet a member of the Daniel Craig, revolves around the true Sussex Jewish Film Club you can come story of three Jewish brothers living in as a guest on the basis of a donation. Nazi-occupied Poland. They escape We meet at 7pm for drinks, with the film into the Belarussian forest, where they starting at 7.30pm join Russian resistance fighters in – and remember battling the Nazis. Throughout the war there’s free parking they build a village inside the forest and at Hove Station on save the lives of more than 1,200 Jews. Sunday evenings. The screenplay is based on Nechama We hope to see Tec’s book Defiance: The Bielski you there. Partisans. Ralph, Irene & Zoe May

As usual, we have had a varied afternoon we had two for the price JACS programme lately: Veronica Walton not of one! Janice presented a general by Nina Taylor, Hon Chairman only showed the beauty of minerals knowledge quiz and then she and Anne and crystals but gave us the history Conn read stories they had written Along with many other organisations of their use in medicine and folklore. whilst attending a creative writing class. we had to cancel our meeting at the Of great relevance to senior citizens in We have another full and interesting beginning of December due to the our community was a talk by Christine programme arranged for this month inclement weather. Ian Gledhill, who Simpson about the very comprehensive (see Diary page) and we look forward was to tell us about the world of Art world of Age Concern. Leaflets were to welcoming old and new members. Deco, will be coming to speak to us in available for any person who was in We meet at the AJEX Centre every February. need of advice and assistance. One Wednesday and 2 p.m.

Val Aviv is an accomplished astrologer. For more information You can lead a goat to a water bearer: view her website www.valaviv.com January’s stars by Val Aviv Aries Cancer Libra Capricorn With so much going on within the public There’s a lot going on in your relationship A new feeling of optimism and buoyancy Impulsive buys are not eye, it’s no wonder you’ve been feeling the sector, no wonder you’re giving more could be the start of something special. A usually your style but after all your efforts pressure. All that grafting is paying off and thought to significant others. While the full relationship which expands your world view recently you may feel you deserve a treat your deep wish will become a reality, the moon in your sign on the 19th may make is set to make an appearance soon, isn’t it and rightly so. The new moon in your sign time for neglecting social invitations has you overtly sensitive, it will enable you to about time you let your hair down? means a fresh start and what a wonderful finally ended. express your feelings honestly. new year this will be! Scorpio Taurus Leo With a new lease of life coming to your Aquarius If you need to make a change, getting into a If partners seem more explosive than usual, home, this is a perfect time for a reshuffle A small part of you may be in the mood for strop will rock the boat but not necessarily you can thank the rather unruly influence of or renovation. Things are sure to go well as winter hibernation and indeed it won’t be help you stay afloat. As usual co-operation Mars in your relationship sector. Nearer the long as everyone agrees on what needs to a great time to kick start new projects until wins the day. While tact and diplomacy may end of the month a lucky phase starts and be done. Finances are set to soar. nearer the end of the month. After which not come naturally this month; drive and important people are taking notice of you. point you’ll be re-energized and raring to passion will. Sagittarius go get ’em! Virgo Are you ready for a whirlwind of excitement Gemini The temptation to over exhaust yourself and perhaps a new expanded vision of Pisces As you like variety and exploration, this with work commitments may leave you a the world? It could be a new romance or You’re looking your best and finally striking month won’t disappoint you as you’re little frazzled especially if someone in the creative project either way there is joy in this the right balance with your public persona. thinking big and going beyond your work place seems to be placing higher world and you are going to own it. Friends are truly on your side and while you ordinary perceptions of the world. While this demands on you. Save a little time for the might feel that some have a hidden agenda stimulates your senses, it also helps you to fun stuff! it could be you that has hidden frustrations. redefine your ambitions.

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com HHC Rabbi Vivian Silverman 12 Hove Hebrew Congregation 13 79 Holland Road, Hove BN3 1JN Tel: 01273 732035 Email: [email protected] Words of the Prophets Twenty-seven years later on 1 Nisan 560 BCE, a second Haftarah for Parasha Va’eira prophecy came to Ezekiel telling him that the king of Babylon 1 January 2011 – Ezekiel 28:25-29:21 was about to bring a great army against the Phoenician city of Tyre. Egypt, too, would fall into the power of Babylon. Then, the Almighty’s promise to rescue Israel from her The Messianic vision enemies would be truly fulfilled. by Rabbi Vivian Silverman The haftarah parallels the thought of the Sidra, in that both In the last verse of the Haftarah we have the phrase “Atsmiah speak about the breaking of the power of Egypt. The first keren l’veit Yisrael” - “ I shall cause a horn to spring forth verse encapsulates the Messianic vision (also described in for the House of Israel”. Wherever “keren” (a horn) is found the haftarah for Vayigash) that when the Almighty will have in the bible or Siddur, it refers to pride/power, since the ox’s gathered the dispersed of Israel back to her land, God’s name horn is its most potent and powerful weapon. will be sanctified through them in the sight of the nations of the world. So, our phrase now means: “I will cause the House of Israel to feel proud” since I will have carried out my promise to Chapter 29 unfolds the prophecy that came to Ezekiel on destroy their enemy and restore them to their land. 12 Tevet 587 BCE, 10 years after he was carried into exile. Pharaoh, king of Egypt, is pictured as a crocodile in the Diary - January 2011 River Nile, imagining he is all powerful. However, the Divine Fisherman puts hooks into the crocodile’s jaws, drags it from Tuesday 11 Talmud Shiur the Nile and throws it onto the open fields, where it will be destroyed. Sunday 16 Dedication of Rabbi Efune’s Sefer Torah Such will be the fate of the Egyptian Empire. For 40 years, she will remain desolate and her population scattered Tuesday 18 Ladies Discussion Circle, 10.30 am throughout the Mediterranean. Finally, God will gather her and bring her to Patros (the original seat of power in Upper Thursday 20 Tu B’Shevat/15 Shevat – New Year for Trees Egypt) where she will remain, a shadow of herself.

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issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com BHPS Rabbi Elizabeth Tikvah Sarah Brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue, 6 Lansdowne Road, Hove BN3 1FF 13 Tel: 01273 737223 Email: [email protected] www.brightonandhoveprosynagogue.org.uk

Words of the Prophets Judah was conquered by Babylon in 586 BCE; however, that Haftarah for Parasha Bo wasn’t the end of the story. One of the purposes of the haftarah is homiletical – to chastise and denounce wrong-doing and conclude 8 January 2011 – Jeremiah 46:13-28 with words of hope or consolation. Haftarat Bo closes with Jeremiah also predicting the end of the people’s captivity in Babylon and The meaning of Omnipotence their return. This came to pass when the Persians defeated the by Rabbi Elizabeth Tikvah Sarah Babylonians and King Cyrus allowed the exiles to come back to the land and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. Jeremiah was an isolated visionary whose words were rarely heeded. He spent forty years prophesying in Judah during the late 7th century It feels very neat, but something else is going on. Having defeated and early 6th century BCE when the two great powers of Babylon Egypt, why did the Eternal One allow Babylon to triumph over and Egypt were contending for supremacy in the region. There is Judah? By focusing on the eventual restoration of Judah, one may an obvious connection with the parashah which relates the final ignore a more powerful theological message in verses 18 and 28: plagues against Egypt and the defeat of Pharaoh by the Eternal One. Adonai Tz’va’ot – ‘the Eternal One of Hosts’, who punished Egypt, Similarly, Jeremiah prophesies that Egypt will be defeated by Divine also punished Judah; the Eternal One, who is ‘with’ Israel is also, intervention once again. ha-Melech – the Sovereign – of all, who condemns wrong conduct in every place. As we read in the final phrase of the haftarah: v’nakkeih Despite the obvious similarities, the context in which prophet was lo anakkeka – ‘I will not, indeed, exempt you’. delivering his message was very different. Jeremiah speaks out against the alliance Judah has made with Egypt in order to keep Babylon at bay and predicts that Babylon will prevail. His critique exposes the realpolitik for a tiny nation at the mercy of superpowers. Celebrations at Chanukah Shabbaton Our Shabbat morning service was crowded with well-wishers who, in lieu of a sermon, received testimonies from 10 people who had joined our congregation during each of the past 10 years. Rabbi Elli thanked each one for their heartfelt and humorous words with a kiss! She was then presented with a cheque of donations from members. Chairman Peter Speck read out good wishes sent by Lucian Hudson and Rabbi Danny Rich.

After a splendid kiddush and lunch (including latkes and an enormous three-tier anniversary fruit cake made by a generous congregant), visitors were welcomed for a discussion on what it is or feels to be Jewish, entitled “Are you Jewish or Jew- A ndrews B enjamin 2010 ish?”

The adults were then entertained by professional storyteller Sef Townsend who often tells stories in reconciliation events around the world. As it was Chanukah, the hour was light- hearted with a Ladino song about the eight little candles.

Photo © M atthew The children joined in for Havdalah and Chanukah candle Brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue celebrated 10 years lighting. Many people brought their own Chanukiyot. The with Rabbi Elli at a Chanukah Shabbaton on Saturday 4 flames burning at once, surrounded by children, made a very December. Although icy weather caused the cancellation of moving sight. our erev Shabbat service and chavurah supper, overnight the temperatures soared. Some suggested Divine intervention!

2011 Aubrey Milstein lecture 84th year, worked to foster racial harmony and challenge injustice by Marguerite Wright with various organizations including Brighton & Hove Council, Sussex Jewish Representative Council, Interfaith Contact Group, This year’s Aubrey Milstein Lecture will be delivered by Dr Brian Racial Harassment Forum and as a member of the Independent Klug at 3.00 pm on Sunday 6 February and is certain to be a Advisory Group. thoroughly thought-provoking event. Further information about the lecture, please contact the Dr Brian Klug has published widely on race, antisemitism, Jewish synagogue office on 01273 737223 or by e-mail at bhps@ identity and other subjects. His latest book - Being Jewish and freenetname.co.uk Doing Justice: Bringing Argument to Life - will be on sale after the lecture. Rabbi Elli describes the book as a “must read” and claims it one of the best books she has ever read. Aubrey Milstein Memorial Lecture As part of its commitment to interfaith relations and racial and religious harmony, Brighton & Hove Progressive Synagogue Living in the World: established in 2005 a biennial lecture to be given by speakers The People of God and the Pursuit of Justice who have made a significant contribution in a related field. by Dr Brian Klug The Aubrey Milstein Lectures, by speakers who have made Chaired by Rabbi Elizabeth Tikvah Sarah a significant contribution to interfaith relations and racial and religious harmony, were established in 2005 and held biennially. Sunday 6th February 2011 at 3.00pm The lectures are named to honour the memory of Aubrey Milstein, Free admission. Refreshments. a former prominent member of our congregation who, until his

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com BHRS Rabbi Charles Wallach Brighton & Hove Reform Synagogue 14 Palmeira Avenue, Hove BN3 3GE 15 Tel: 01273 735343 Email: [email protected] www.bh-rs.org Words of the Prophets patriotic song and praise of the Almighty reaches crescendo. Haftarah for Parasha Beschallach Indeed, if one looks at the text of the poem, its format is 8 January 2011 – Judges 4:4-5:31 stunningly similar to that of Moses with short, half sentences presented mainly in three groups of three or four words on a The foretelling of unity line. by Rabbi Charles Wallach The importance of this moment needs also be considered. The alternative name for this Shabbat is Shabbat Shira – The world of the Tribes of Israel was just that, individual tribes the Sabbath of Song, because a central part of the Torah loosely confederated in what scholars call the amphictyony reading is Moses’ famous song after the crossing of the Red of Israel. Deborah, with the help of Barak as her general, Sea by the Israelites. In the Torah the song follows an actual was able to bring fighters from two tribes – Zebulun and description of the crossing complete with Pharaoh’s soldiers Naphtali – together. The success achieved was to be seen as being drowned in the returning waters following the parting a forerunner for such cooperation between other tribes under of the waves. The haftarah echoes this motif by describing an threat and something that eventually was so necessary that a event first, then following it up with a more poetic description. unified kingdom was the eventual outcome.

This is also the case of Deborah and Barak’s victory over One final parallel between Torah and haftarah is that Deborah Sisera, general to King Jabin of Canaan. As with the passage is called a neviah– a prophetess - as Miriam is when she in Torah, we are almost forgetful of the bloodshed as the leads the women in the final refrain of the Shirah.

Truly a fine array of events! The following day, we were honoured to host the AJEX Annual Remembrance Service involving members of AJEX and our choir. Of particular note were the readings by two of our teenagers, Olivia Sasson and Eden Shepherd, and to experience the wonderful support by the community in the presence of several dignitaries. This moving service was followed by a splendid tea catered by our Guild.

This would have been, to coin a phrase, “dayenu!” But two weeks later, in response to Helping Hands, our Cheder youngsters were in there as well: drawing colourful greetings on scores of boxes, which were packed with delicacies to be delivered around the community. The children also helped blow up balloons to help decorate the AJEX Hall ahead of a tea attended by the elderly in the community who were also entertained by a magic show. In between, our Kids Club turned their monthly meeting to create a “Mitzvah Tree” – made up of numerous sticks on which the children wrote what they thought a mitzvah was.

Finally, the snow and cold forced us to change our plans for Chanukah. We celebrated in shul on Friday evening when we held We celebrated what we plan to be the first of a regular, once a term, a communal lighting of chanukiot, and on Sunday held a disco and child and family focused Shabbat morning service. A shortened, yet array of stalls. For the first time we held gatherings in private homes, meaningful service, was led by our upcoming Bar and Bat Mitzvahs including the families of our Cheder, who went nightly around the area and was followed by a fine Kiddush prepared by our wonderful to join in the celebrations. Parents’ Committee, under the leadership of Melanie Firsht. Thank you to Saonie Lyons Melanie Firsht, chair of the Cheder Parents Committee, expressed the gratitude that was felt by all for Saonie’s hard work and commitment. Saonie Lyons, our Cheder Administrator of sixteen years, has She said: ‘Saonie has done an amazing job and has always been decided to step down. The Cheder children, parents and synagogue involved with the Jewish education of the Cheder children.’ representatives presented Saonie with a thank-you card and a gift. Cheder children with Saonie Lyons, Melanie Firsht and Rabbi Charles Wallach at the back (photo by Michael Harris)

Bulletin Board - January 2011

Mondays Exercise to music with Adele re- starts on 10th January Wednesdays JACS starts again on 5th January Saturday 8th Rabbi’s Shiur, 9.00 am Sunday 9th Cheder term begins Sunday 16th Members Tea Saturday 22nd Rabbi’s Shiur, 9.00 am

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com BHHC Rabbi Hershel Rader Brighton & Hove Hebrew Congregation 14 31 New Church Road, Hove BN3 3AD 15 Tel: 01273 888855 Email: [email protected] www.webjam.com/bhhc10

The Induction Service for Rabbi Hershel & Mrs Perla Rader was held on Sunday 28 matter how small - to give to our community to ensure its continuity and strength. By November 2010. The event also marked the 50th anniversary of our West Hove Shul. rededicating ourselves to giving what we can and by stressing the positives in each Those present received an inspiring message from Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, who other and in what we do, our community will – like the increasing number of candles reminded us in advance of Chanukah, each and every one of us has something – no on the chanukiah through the festival – grow stronger and brighter.

Left: Ruby Bass, 7, and Tal Lewis, 8, after presenting the Chief Rabbi with a gift commissioned from local artist Martin Wertheim- Gould. The painting sets out our Congregation’s history in Brighton & Hove from Devonshire Place to Middle Street to our current shul in West Hove.

Lord Lieutenant of Sussex Peter Field, Mayor of Brighton & Hove Geoffrey Wells, Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, Rabbi Hershel Rader

Member Stanley Faull and Left: Chief Rabbi Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks Lord Sacks as in conversation at the he delivers the celebratory reception. Induction Address

MARTIN GROSS Memorials All aspects of stone- masonry undertaken from new to renovation and cleaning 01273 439792 07801 599771 235-237 Hangleton Rd .. Hove .. BN3 7LR (Next to TEXACO petrol station)

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com What’s on: January 2011 16 [email protected]

Shabbat Shalom – Brighton Times NOTABLE DATES In Light Candles Out Havdalah Thu 20 Tu B’shvat – new year for trees Fri 31 Dec 3.46 pm Sat 1 Jan 5.02 pm Fri 7 3.54 pm Sat 8 5.09 pm Fri 14 4.03 pm Sat 15 5.18 pm Fri 21 4.14 pm Sat 22 5.28 pm Fri 28 4.26 pm Sat 29 5.39 pm

Regular Activities Events for January Sundays „„ J:Tots – for parents, toddlers, grandparents and carers - is held monthly at Ralli Hall. For „„ Shalom Programme on www. information regarding the next session, please e-mail Rachel at [email protected] or ring radioreverb.com as well as 97.2 FM, 01273 204334. 9.00-9.55 pm. Wednesday 5 „„ Carmel Tennis Club 10.00 am-12.00 noon. All levels welcome. Tel: Leon „„ JACS – Hat Debate, a lively discussion presided over by Dr Nina Taylor, 2.00 pm at AJEX on 07717 222744 Centre, Eaton Road, Hove. Members £2.00/Non-Members £2.50

Wednesday 12 Mondays „„ JACS – Memories of the Holocaust with guest speaker Ceska Abrahams, 2.00 pm at AJEX „„ The Ethics of our Fathers with Rabbi Centre, Eaton Road, Hove. Members £2.00/Non-Members £2.50 Efune 11.30-12.30 pm Chabad House, 15 Upper Drive, Hove. Tel:. Sunday 16 01273 321919 „„ Completion and Welcoming into the Shul of the new Torah Scroll, 1.30-2.30 pm, Wavertree „„ Afternoon Club with tea 1.30 pm. Contact Reba 01444 410435 House, corner Furze Hill & Lansdowne Road, followed by procession to Holland Road Shul. Everyone welcome. „„ Rubber and Duplicate Bridge 1.30- 4.30 pm £2.00. Tel Reba 01444 „„ Celebratory Dinner in honour of the new Sefer Torah at 6.30 pm RH. £25.00 per person. For 410435 tickets tel: 01273 32919 or email [email protected] (no appeal)

„„ Contemporary Basic Talmud with Wednesday 19 Rabbi Efune - Men only 8.15 pm at Chabad House 01273 321919 „„ JACS – The Merchant of Venice with guest speaker Sydney Levine, 2.00 pm at AJEX Centre, Eaton Road, Hove. Members £2.00/Non-Members £2.50 „„ Tanya (Kabbalah) Learning Group with Penina Efune - Ladies only 8.15 pm Sunday 23 at Chabad House 01273 321919 „„ Sussex Jewish Film Club at Ralli Hall: Defiance - Drinks at 7.00 pm. Film begins at 7.30 pm. Tuesdays Non-members can attend one Club session free as a taster on the basis of a donation

„„ Painting with Rochelle (JAS), 7.00- 9.00 pm Tel: 01273 503708 Weekly Tuesday 25 RH. New term commences 11 „„ Jewish Historical Society – The Enlightenment with guest speaker Dr Sam Barsam, Board of January. Deputies Defence Committee, 7.45 pm RH. Members free/Non-Members £4.00 Tel: 01273 „„ Israeli Dancing, 7.45-9.45 pm Tel: 419412 Jacky 01273 688538 RH Wednesday 26 „„ Ralli Hall Lunch and Social Club, 10.30 „„ JACS – The House of Hanover with guest speaker Lea Mitchell, 2.00 pm at AJEX Centre, am-4.30 pm. Tel: Suzanne 01273 Eaton Road, Hove. Members £2.00/Non-Members £2.50 739999 RH Sunday 30th „„ Art in the studio with Martin 2.00- 4.30 pm RH „„ AJEX Holocaust Memorial Service at The Jewish Cemetery, Meadowview, Bear Road at 11.00 am. Please try to attend. Wednesdays „„ Radio Reverb theatre programme Advance Notice ‘Curtain Up’ 7.00 am Sussex Jewish Representative Council „„ Chutzpah Choir (singing in Yiddish, General Meeting for representatives of all organisations and the community Ladino, Hebrew, Aramaic and other When - Wednesday, 2nd February 2011 at 8.05 pm languages) with Polina Shepherd. 7.00-8.45 pm Where: - Ralli Hall, Denmark Villas, Hove Tel: Rosalind 01273 541031 RH. Please put the date in your diary „„ Thursdays VOLUNTEERS NEEDED „„ Ralli Hall Lunch and Social Club, 10.30 Your Sussex Jewish News is going from strength to strength! Our success means we need am-4.30 pm. Tel: Suzanne 01273 more help. If you have time to help us, we’re looking for help with: 739999 Weekly RH ADVERTISING SALES REPORTERS * WEBSITE EDITORS „„ Weekly Torah portion with Rabbi Efune 8.15 pm at Chabad House. Training will be provided. For more information, e-mail [email protected] 01273 321919. or call 07906 955 404.

issue 204 | january 2011 | www.sussexjewishnews.com