Friday 27 February 2009

Shabbat Shalom from Sheila

090227

27th February, 2009.



Shabbat Shalom



One of the only disadvantages of living in Israel is that I am unaware of the timing of Christian Festivals, which is distinctly unfair on my Christian readers. Rather belatedly I hope you had a fun Shrove Tuesday, Mardi Gras, and didn't eat too much – and that Ash Wednesday led you into Lent and a time of reflection.



Since we are on the subject of Christianity, Israelis are rather embarrassed at our king of satire, Lior Shlein, who made highly unfortunate references on his nightly show, while referring to the apparent acceptance within the Catholic Church, of Richard Williamson, an avowed Holocaust denier. The skit was in very bad taste and Schlein has since publicly apologized for his gaffe, so I do not see any reason for this incident to harm the Popes intentions of coming to Israel in May. Various Moslem groups jumped on the bandwagon calling upon His Eminence to cancel his upcoming visit. The humour was inappropriate, but remember that it comes from a people who survived through humour and thinks everyone has the same sense of the absurd. http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/Flash.aspx/161096



I promised you a report on the Conference of Presidents here in Jerusalem, which was immediately followed by the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency – known locally as BOG!!! It would bore you horribly if I were to report upon each and every aspect of both but my general impression is that while funds are falling, many projects are lost and people have lost their jobs in the Jewish world- there is a greater sense of togetherness than I have seen in many a year. Suddenly, Americans North and South, Canadians, Europeans, Antipodeans and Brits have something in common – the momentous realisation that anti-Israeli bias is not against Israel, it is, as Dr. Martin Luther King Junior said, another name for anti-Semitism. We are all in this boat together and while it is overt in Venezuela, it is tacit everywhere. We are not vocal enough, we are too apathetic and too self-satisfied. Our enemies, and that is what they are, are more vocal, less indifferent and much more willing to go out there and tell what they perceive as their side of the story – often through statements which bear little resemblance to truth. We cannot sit back and rely on Alan Dershowitz, Irwin Cotler and Daniel Pipes to fight our fights. Get out there and get your pens poised, but write with at least a modicum of good manners so that incidents such as those reported in the British Medical Journal do not recur. http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1235410704498&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull



As a result of the banning of Shahar Peer from the Dubai tennis championships, http://dailystrength.org/c/War_Terrorism_Violence/forum/6444568-dubai-no-match-israeli some companies and individuals stood up and took action, including the Tennis Channel viewerresponse@tennischannel.com and Andy Roddick, who pulled out in protest. Barclays Bank said nothing and did nothing. If you have a Barclays account you know what to do! sustainability@barclays.com



I am sure that many of you received an email proclaiming to be a Congressional paper with directions from President Obama to absorb Palestinian Hamas into the USA…..HOAX of course!!! www.snopes.com - but this video is not a hoax, it is deadly serious and essential viewing of a Kuwaiti Professor and his dreams for the USA.

http://mliberalguy.blogspot.com/2009/02/kuwaiti-professor-fantasizes-of.html



The Two-State solution keeps rearing its head, over and over again. I agree that this is, was and always has been the answer to the violence and subsequent poverty of people on both sides of the proverbial fence. In fact it was such a brilliant idea that it was enacted in 1948 by the "Partition of Palestine" into a Jewish State and an Arab State – the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. If Jews are banned from living in the Moslem part of Palestine why are Moslems protected as part of Israeli society. I don't want them to go anywhere, don't misunderstand me, but I want to know why it is acceptable for vast tracts of land to be "un-Jewed" but unacceptable for us to do the same to others? Why does the Christian world silently accept the tragedy of what is happening to Christians in Gaza and the PA, yet create a world wide to-do over a not very funny Israeli satirist? Beats me!



We now have a Prime Minister (probably) but still don't have a government. Tsippi wants a two state solution on the agenda and surprisingly Lieberman accepts that but Bibi doesn't. Shas won't accept civil marriages but Kadimah does. Bibi has a long way to go! Negotiations are taking place in Kfar Maccabiah where we were discussing far more positive events with Eyal Tiberger, Director General of WMU. We talked of the fabulous events which will mark this years 18th Maccabiah. Zvi will be in charge of the Jerusalem section – and all the events, no matter where they are held, sound amazing. It is such a brilliant opportunity for young Jews from around the world to meet in the spirit of friendly competition and sport. As I said last time, this is the second largest international sports event in the world. Don't imagine that it is only youngsters and VIP's – parents and sports fans of every variety will come. If you haven't booked your tickets yet you really ought!!! http://www.maccabiah.com/



By the way, we didn't get the best foreign film award in Hollywood!!! Waltz with Bashir did brilliantly to get as far as it did but didn't quite make it. Never mind – next year!!!!



Yesterday Zvi and I were stuck in traffic on road 443 from the airport to Jerusalem. I had time to study the roadsides, the incredible amount of greenery, provided so many years ago by the KKL. One really notices the difference between the PA and Israel by their bare, stony, uninviting hillsides and the Israeli greenery – it all depends upon how one chooses to use ones money. The previously barren lands, deforestation was so devastating during the Ottoman period that the top-soil eroded, is now covered with many types of fir trees which have encouraged the growth of wild mimosa, shkediot (almond), rakafot (cyclamen), calaniot (anemones) and of course where there is a break in the trees spikey cacti – sabras grow with the promise of their juicy fruits. The flowers are responding to the rain which has finally arrived. Indeed it rained cats and dogs last night – interspersed with some very loud thunder, and early this morning my friend Judith called me begging me to go out onto my veranda and just "smell the air". She was right, the clear air, so freshly washed by the torrential night rain, was refreshing and crisp as the entire city seemed to gleam in the sudden burst of sunshine before the next downpour.



My Shabbat meals are cooked since I woke up early this morning to an exceptionally loud clap of thunder. My Eastern fish on red pepper and tomato base, the tuna and celery salad, the cottage pie, the root vegetable soup, the bread pudding, poached pears and fresh Israeli strawberries in orange juice bode well for a warm belly on a cold night!!!! Their aromas vie for attention on our hallway, but I think I did OK this week!!!!



Shabbat Shalom to you all. Remember to be proud of what you are. As Rabbi Jeremy Rosen used to say in his morning assemblies at Carmel College "Remember that, as Jews, you are as good as, though no better than, anyone else"

With love, from the thankfully soggy heart of the world.

Sheila

Friday 20 February 2009

Shabbat Shalom from Sheila

090220

February 20th 2009

Shabbat Shalom, I hope you are well.



When Major-General Avi Mizrahi spoke to his soldiers at Gelilot military base he condemned Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan's foot-stomping departure at the Davos Economic Forum and demand that Israel be cast out of the UN. Maj-Gen Mizrahi said that if Erdogan wants Israel banned from the UN then Turkey should be expelled for the mass murder of Armenians, Kurds etc. We cannot allow another country to dictate what an officer in the IDF is allowed to report to his own troops. Mizrahi should be commended not reprimanded. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3671618,00.html Ataturk is spinning in his mausoleum; the Islamic domination which led to extreme racism, which he worked so hard to eradicate, is creeping back apace.



Amnesty International has presented a report on the suffering in Gaza in which they disclose Hamas cruelty. http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE21/001/2009/en/9f210586-f762-11dd-8fd7-f57af21896e1/mde210012009en.html



Sport is supposed to be the great leveler but this week Israeli tennis player Shahar Pe'er was denied a visa to the Dubai Open because she is Israeli! Can you imagine if Israel refused a visa to an Arab player? Congratulate the Tennis Channel for opposing the decision media@thetennischannel.com which arguably caused the change in policy (and important precedent) of allowing Andy Ram to play, and complain to sponsors Sony Ericsson global@SonyEricsson.com for allowing it to go ahead anyway.



Hatred is turning me into a Jew. http://www.thejc.com/articles/hatred-turning-me-a-jew is a marvelous article, the writings of Nick Cohen, a British journalist who is not Jewish but inherited his Jewish name from his paternal grandfather.



In response to highly controversial move taken by Lord Nazir Ahmed to ban Geert Wilders from the House of Lords and the House' obsession with Gaza, Baroness Deech gave a thoughtful, considered and proportionate response, http://www.theyworkforyou.com/lords/?gid=2009-02-06a.912.0



Emotionally it is obvious- bring Gilad Schalit home; but at what price? In the "Jibril Deal" of May 20, 1985, 1,150 terrorists were exchanged for three soldiers. Then Defence Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z"l) said that he could not bear the grief of the parents and accepted the exchange. The Jibril Deal taught the Arabs that Israel's weakness lay in her determination to save her boys- and many of those released went on to perform heinous acts of terror costing many Israeli lives. How can one make that decision? I, like Yitzchak Rabin, would find it impossible to look into the eyes of the Schalit family, but how does one look into the eyes of those families decimated by the terrorists we intend freeing?



The Government will be formed by Benjamin Netanyahu. I support Kadima, but will accept whatever government is formed, such is democracy. Kadima has thus far chosen to sit in opposition rather than in a broad government with Likud and Israel Beitenu although President Peres is making strong efforts to change that situation. I believe that taking part in the decision making of this country is the more responsible path. Mr Netanyahu is an able politician, not as right wing as his election rhetoric suggests, and yesterday we heard the much vilified Avigdor (Yvette) Lieberman speak at the Conference of Presidents (more later). While his policies are revolutionary they are issues which must be addressed; conversion, civil marriage for those who cannot be married in the Rabbinate and the "bête noir" of loyalty. Loyalty is not a racist issue; he refers to the ultra-orthodox who mock the State of Israel and kiss Ahmedinejad, Arab MK's who openly incite and support those who would see Israel destroyed, Arabs who are the enemy within (a minority) and finally the "Tsfonim" North Telavivim who do not serve in the IDF. Rights demand obligations. Incidentally if Mr Netanhayu is forced into a coalition with the religious parties those changes are out of the window. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3674886,00.html



This week Jerusalem hosted the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations led by the indomitable Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein, whose brilliance lies not only in organisation but in keeping very high profile, informed Americans interested and stimulated by bringing the most excellent of speakers. As we went into the conference hall Zvi was met by Carolyn Greene, Dr Hoenleins right hand woman, who requested that her kiss with Zvi be officially recorded in this weeks Shabbat Shalom!



My mind is reeling with the essential, positive and deeply disturbing information we absorbed over the last two days. World Islamic Jihad and how to combat it; Israel's defence against the onslaught on our society, and Malcolm's final comments at the conference where he reiterated the fact that Jewish Americans worry about Israel, anti-Semitism in Europe and Latin America not accepting that the USA is as bad if not worse than those countries. American Campuses have become a hotbed of anti-Semitism and unlike communities around the world US Jews have no communal defence or support, the communities are entities not a homogenous group. If attacked American Jews run to the local police but have no first line of defence within the community. I will go deeper into the issue in another letter, my thoughts are so fragmented, but I will analyse and report. In the meantime please read Denis McShane http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article5740603.ece



I know you are waiting for the good news!!!! Well, it rained – unfortunately it tends to wait for the weekend but it rained. Yesterday, when we got home from the conference I opened my window blinds and as they rose on the fabulous view of Jerusalem which always refills my soul…… brown nothingness, the Sahara came to Jerusalem!! The view was shrouded in sandy, mucky dust hanging in the air but magically, during the night, the rain washed the dust away and I awoke to my view of Gilo, Talpiot, Beit Safafa, Baka, German Colony, Katamon and of course the glorious Shkediot (almond trees) in full bloom. It makes me laugh at the way the Tel Avivim race miles and miles to see one singe almond tree in blossom and send out photographs to all their friends. Hey guys, come to Jerusalem, they abound!!!



Finally, we may not have peace with Syria but over 20 truckloads of apples, approximately 8000 tons of fruit, are being exported from Israel to Syria over the next few weeks! The fruit is grown on the Golan and beats anything you guys have!! Our apples are not as big or red but they are fresh! Israeli apples (except the generic Golden Delicious) are eaten within days of picking – our fruit is seasonal – not cooled and kept and stored – fresh! When we go to the shouk the incredible rainbow of fruit and vegetables is all freshly delivered from the source and crunchy and crisp as nature intended.



After two days of lectures I think it is time to do some Shabbat cooking! Zvi will go off to his "parliament" at the petrol station Angel's bakery, where they will shout and yell and argue the toss as if they really had the answers to all the worlds' ills. Danny Liwerant will explain what is happening in Latin America as he did marvelously yesterday. I will happily stay home to prepare Middle Eastern salads and stuff some beautiful multicoloured peppers to give me pause to absorb and evaluate all the information accumulated over the last days so that I can report to you next week!



Have a wonderful Shabbat and don't be downcast, we have been through worse and we always bounce back in a better and wiser form.



With love from Jerusalem, the heart of our world.

Sheila



PS Yitz – I know it is long this week but you should have seen what I cut out!





For those who still have the patience – these oh so relevant words by Rudyard Kipling from his poem IF which were quoted at the Conference by Prof Daniel Freedman – Israel's Minister of Justice.



If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:

And so on and so forth

Shabbat Shalom from Sheila

090220

February 20th 2009

Shabbat Shalom, I hope you are well.



When Major-General Avi Mizrahi spoke to his soldiers at Gelilot military base he condemned Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan's foot-stomping departure at the Davos Economic Forum and demand that Israel be cast out of the UN. Maj-Gen Mizrahi said that if Erdogan wants Israel banned from the UN then Turkey should be expelled for the mass murder of Armenians, Kurds etc. We cannot allow another country to dictate what an officer in the IDF is allowed to report to his own troops. Mizrahi should be commended not reprimanded. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3671618,00.html Ataturk is spinning in his mausoleum; the Islamic domination which led to extreme racism, which he worked so hard to eradicate, is creeping back apace.



Amnesty International has presented a report on the suffering in Gaza in which they disclose Hamas cruelty. http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE21/001/2009/en/9f210586-f762-11dd-8fd7-f57af21896e1/mde210012009en.html



Sport is supposed to be the great leveler but this week Israeli tennis player Shahar Pe'er was denied a visa to the Dubai Open because she is Israeli! Can you imagine if Israel refused a visa to an Arab player? Congratulate the Tennis Channel for opposing the decision media@thetennischannel.com which arguably caused the change in policy (and important precedent) of allowing Andy Ram to play, and complain to sponsors Sony Ericsson global@SonyEricsson.com for allowing it to go ahead anyway.



Hatred is turning me into a Jew. http://www.thejc.com/articles/hatred-turning-me-a-jew is a marvelous article, the writings of Nick Cohen, a British journalist who is not Jewish but inherited his Jewish name from his paternal grandfather.



In response to highly controversial move taken by Lord Nazir Ahmed to ban Geert Wilders from the House of Lords and the House' obsession with Gaza, Baroness Deech gave a thoughtful, considered and proportionate response, http://www.theyworkforyou.com/lords/?gid=2009-02-06a.912.0



Emotionally it is obvious- bring Gilad Schalit home; but at what price? In the "Jibril Deal" of May 20, 1985, 1,150 terrorists were exchanged for three soldiers. Then Defence Minister Yitzhak Rabin (z"l) said that he could not bear the grief of the parents and accepted the exchange. The Jibril Deal taught the Arabs that Israel's weakness lay in her determination to save her boys- and many of those released went on to perform heinous acts of terror costing many Israeli lives. How can one make that decision? I, like Yitzchak Rabin, would find it impossible to look into the eyes of the Schalit family, but how does one look into the eyes of those families decimated by the terrorists we intend freeing?



The Government will be formed by Benjamin Netanyahu. I support Kadima, but will accept whatever government is formed, such is democracy. Kadima has thus far chosen to sit in opposition rather than in a broad government with Likud and Israel Beitenu although President Peres is making strong efforts to change that situation. I believe that taking part in the decision making of this country is the more responsible path. Mr Netanyahu is an able politician, not as right wing as his election rhetoric suggests, and yesterday we heard the much vilified Avigdor (Yvette) Lieberman speak at the Conference of Presidents (more later). While his policies are revolutionary they are issues which must be addressed; conversion, civil marriage for those who cannot be married in the Rabbinate and the "bête noir" of loyalty. Loyalty is not a racist issue; he refers to the ultra-orthodox who mock the State of Israel and kiss Ahmedinejad, Arab MK's who openly incite and support those who would see Israel destroyed, Arabs who are the enemy within (a minority) and finally the "Tsfonim" North Telavivim who do not serve in the IDF. Rights demand obligations. Incidentally if Mr Netanhayu is forced into a coalition with the religious parties those changes are out of the window. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3674886,00.html



This week Jerusalem hosted the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations led by the indomitable Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein, whose brilliance lies not only in organisation but in keeping very high profile, informed Americans interested and stimulated by bringing the most excellent of speakers. As we went into the conference hall Zvi was met by Carolyn Greene, Dr Hoenleins right hand woman, who requested that her kiss with Zvi be officially recorded in this weeks Shabbat Shalom!



My mind is reeling with the essential, positive and deeply disturbing information we absorbed over the last two days. World Islamic Jihad and how to combat it; Israel's defence against the onslaught on our society, and Malcolm's final comments at the conference where he reiterated the fact that Jewish Americans worry about Israel, anti-Semitism in Europe and Latin America not accepting that the USA is as bad if not worse than those countries. American Campuses have become a hotbed of anti-Semitism and unlike communities around the world US Jews have no communal defence or support, the communities are entities not a homogenous group. If attacked American Jews run to the local police but have no first line of defence within the community. I will go deeper into the issue in another letter, my thoughts are so fragmented, but I will analyse and report. In the meantime please read Denis McShane http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article5740603.ece



I know you are waiting for the good news!!!! Well, it rained – unfortunately it tends to wait for the weekend but it rained. Yesterday, when we got home from the conference I opened my window blinds and as they rose on the fabulous view of Jerusalem which always refills my soul…… brown nothingness, the Sahara came to Jerusalem!! The view was shrouded in sandy, mucky dust hanging in the air but magically, during the night, the rain washed the dust away and I awoke to my view of Gilo, Talpiot, Beit Safafa, Baka, German Colony, Katamon and of course the glorious Shkediot (almond trees) in full bloom. It makes me laugh at the way the Tel Avivim race miles and miles to see one singe almond tree in blossom and send out photographs to all their friends. Hey guys, come to Jerusalem, they abound!!!



Finally, we may not have peace with Syria but over 20 truckloads of apples, approximately 8000 tons of fruit, are being exported from Israel to Syria over the next few weeks! The fruit is grown on the Golan and beats anything you guys have!! Our apples are not as big or red but they are fresh! Israeli apples (except the generic Golden Delicious) are eaten within days of picking – our fruit is seasonal – not cooled and kept and stored – fresh! When we go to the shouk the incredible rainbow of fruit and vegetables is all freshly delivered from the source and crunchy and crisp as nature intended.



After two days of lectures I think it is time to do some Shabbat cooking! Zvi will go off to his "parliament" at the petrol station Angel's bakery, where they will shout and yell and argue the toss as if they really had the answers to all the worlds' ills. Danny Liwerant will explain what is happening in Latin America as he did marvelously yesterday. I will happily stay home to prepare Middle Eastern salads and stuff some beautiful multicoloured peppers to give me pause to absorb and evaluate all the information accumulated over the last days so that I can report to you next week!



Have a wonderful Shabbat and don't be downcast, we have been through worse and we always bounce back in a better and wiser form.



With love from Jerusalem, the heart of our world.

Sheila



PS Yitz – I know it is long this week but you should have seen what I cut out!





For those who still have the patience – these oh so relevant words by Rudyard Kipling from his poem IF which were quoted at the Conference by Prof Daniel Freedman – Israel's Minister of Justice.



If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:

And so on and so forth





Friday 13 February 2009

Shabbat Shalom from Sheila

090213



13th February 2009.



Shabbat Shalom and Happy Valentines Day!



This week I have no intention of trying to untangle the web of intrigue and power that is Israeli politics, so anyone who thought they may just hear some form of explanation – sorry! If you think that Tsippi (Kadima) won the elections you would be right but Bibi (Likud) thinks he did!!! Now since Bibi thinks he won he intends taking the Prime Ministerial seat away from Tsippi and forming a coalition with Yvette (Avigdor) (Israel Beitenu – Israel our home) however Yvette isn't sure he wants Bibi and Eli (Shas) won't sit in a coalition with Yvette because Yvette wants to make conversion easier and civil marriage available to those who need it.



As if that isn't complex enough Tsippi prefers not to sit in coalition with the religious parties who have tended to suggest that she should be at home cooking supper for her family!!!! Ehud (Avodah) has announced that despite the awful election results he is not going anywhere and stays as head of the Labour party and I bet that if he is offered the Defence Ministry he would go back on his harsh words about everyone else; Meretz takes a similar stance with their measly 3 seats, castigating the possible rightist government.



Are you still with me?



Bibi thought he had a shoo-in coalition but in fact – Tsippi is making him sweat and Yvette is not quite as flexible as he thought!!! In addition Yvette claims that everyone has tainted his reputation because now he is under investigation by the police. Simultaneously, the President, hereinafter known as Shimon, is pressuring all the parties to get a move on and not leave the citizens of Israel in limbo!!!



The citizens are crying out for a different system of selection of Knesset Members. Proportional representation doesn't work any more and we want constituency government, each MK responsible to his particular area and that areas needs. The percentage of votes to attain recognition for a party must be raised from 2% to 4 or even 5% and rid us of the ridiculous number of small parties which slew the final results when people think it funny to vote for them (110,000 votes were wasted on these parties which could have given the larger parties a clearer majority).



Dr. Malcolm Hoenlein is an exceptional man and a wonderful representative of American Jewry to the world and to the American President. Yesterday Malcolm led a group of American Jewish leaders, for an audience with His Holiness Pope Benedict in Rome to ask His Holiness to denounce Holocaust denial. The Pope, in an emotional speech before the leaders, denounced any form of denial of the Shoah, using the Hebrew word for Holocaust, within and without the church and described the Shoah as man's greatest crime against mankind.



I see more and more severe anti-Semitism (often in the guise of anti-Zionism) on university campuses – whether in the UK, Canada, the USA or Europe, don't be fooled into thinking it isn't in a university near you. There are some amazing people out there working the campuses and trying to combat the incitement but I believe it has gone beyond that. We need professional help from major PR firms to fill the internet with counter information; to undermine the direct incitement with positive exposure in the media; to ensure the showing of "The Wave" in all schools http://www.thewave.tk/ as a compulsory part of the curriculum to include discussion groups on the films relevancy today. I would also persuade a film-maker of consequence to create an up-to-date version of the movie Exodus with the original Pat Boone lyrics and Ernst Gold music http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFUdKve0dkc The truth has become so distorted through the media and through exceptionally efficient Moslem revisionists that it will take a very professional effort to change perceptions.



So, rather than try to understand our politicians and politics, Jerusalem is slowing down in preparation for Shabbat. The silence reigns as entire families prepare a variety of traditional dishes, do their sponger, a strange technique of sloshing water everywhere – there aren't fitted carpets here – and then gathering the now dirty soapy suds in with a giant squeegee called a sponger- the marble and terrazzo floors given a final shine with a clean floor cloth. I have to admit that this is not my method of preference, I tend to do the wipe and shine rather than donning my welly boots and scrubbing!!!! The carpets have been beaten to death on each veranda and replaced under the shining tables which are then set with white cloths and fine silver and china…. The food is placed on the hot-plate and then, exhausted everyone takes a siesta in order to be ready to greet the bride of Shabbat.



I wish you a sweet, fresh house filled with laughter, family and the glorious aromas of Shabbat. Be well and remember, Shabbat in Jerusalem cannot be beaten, no matter how hard we try!!!!!

Shabbat Shalom from this confused voter.

Love

Sheila

Wednesday 11 February 2009

Mid-week Elections update

090211



11th February 2009.

The day after the night before!



The final votes are in although some are not yet counted and Kadimah is the largest party, closely followed by Likud, but the decision as to who will lead the government is still in the air. Israel's election laws are somewhat confusing since there are so many small parties and varied parties which could potentially form coalitions. It is a long process, taking anything up to 30 days to enter into negotiations with the previously opposing parties to gather the 61+ seats needed to gain a majority coalition. President Peres has called for the relevant parties to try to form a government within a shorter period of 10 days since this is a crucial time in Israeli politics. Based upon their ability to form a substantial and stable coalition he will announce the next Prime Minister of Israel.



Lieberman's Israel Beiteinu did not achieve the huge landslide they expected, although their 14-15 seats will probably swing the direction of any coalition. His immoderate words brought out the normally low Arab vote and the Arab parties have increased their number with at least 8 seats. I say immoderate although, if one really examines the ethic of loyalty to ones country maybe the words are not as extreme as they appear, they do, however, open the door to excessive action and reaction closer to nationalism than loyalty. I am a moderate but when Arab Members of Knesset overtly support Israel's enemies in time of war, enemies who proclaim Israel's demise, I believe it is treasonous. Members of Knesset swear to protect and support the State of Israel against her enemies and should be disciplined when they abuse democracy by not adhering to their own oaths.



The Kadimah results surprised me because I thought that the wonderful heavy rain throughout the country may serve the more extreme parties, the less committed, voters staying home in the warm, but it didn't affect the results as severely as I predicted. The Left is the general loser in yesterdays political equation - Meretz is almost wiped out with 3 seats and Labour with only 13 seats is the 4th party in size.



Zvi and I chose a short break in the rain to walk through the park on our street to our polling station. We took Yosef and Talia, our little grandchildren, with us so that they could experience the excitement of choosing the right "petek" – voting slip. Once inside the school, each voter is directed to his/her polling room, one person at a time, a panel of invigilators sits in each room, one of whom checks the voters ID card and voting card, hands him an empty envelope and directs him to the booth. Unlike most countries, stepping inside the booth one is faced by a vast number (I think about 30) slips, all with one, two or three letters in Hebrew, so that not only must one choose a party, one must remember which letters apply to ones preferred party! Having chosen the petek, it is sealed inside the envelope and taken back to the panel, in front of whom one posts it into the sealed box. Yosef and Talia did the honours – and then chose a treat from the local corner shop as a prize!



Time will tell who will ultimately be the Prime Minister – although Tsippi Livni has already offered Likud a strong two party coalition with her as Prime Minister. One political pundit has suggested a rotational Kadimah/Likud Prime Ministerial system until much needed electoral reforms are in place.



Australia suffered a catastrophic bush fire which took the lives of over a hundred people. http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=6833919 The fire, in Victoria State, was a heinous case of arson. Vast areas were wiped out and families destroyed, burnt in their homes unable to escape the inferno. Australia and her governments have been true and stalwart supporters of democracy and stood by Israel in her hours of need. I think it would be appropriate and right if we were to write to the Victoria State Premier John Brumby premier@dpc.vic.gov.au offering him and the people of Victoria our condolences.



Last night we went to see the movie "Defiance", the true story of the Bielski family, four brothers whose parents were killed in Nowogrodek, Byelorus, and hid in the surrounding forests, to become the leaders of the hundreds and hundreds of people who joined them. Through their defiance and wiles they and many of their followers survived until the end of the war. The film is harrowing, brilliant, essential and I left the movie house knowing that we, as a people are survivors. We will never use deprivation and destitution or death as an excuse to wallow; we are a defiant people and will always, but always survive and thrive. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1034303/synopsis



As a perfect example of positivity and togetherness the World Maccabi Union held the preparatory international meetings for the 18th Maccabiah which will be held in July. The sheer joy and good intentions of those who come from near and far to Kfar Maccabiah to lay down the plans for the "Chai" games makes me very proud. Through Zvi's voluntary work with Maccabi I get to see the background preparations and incredible planning which are behind the second largest international and most joyous of sports events in the world. http://www.maccabiah.com/maintxt.asp?cid=195&parents=&psn=195&maincatid=195

The Maccabiah is a way for young Jewish athletes (and some not so young) from all over the world, to come to Israel, meet, compete and socialize at the Kfar in a celebration of Israel, sport and the joy of togetherness.



While Zvi attended meetings at Kfar Maccabiah, I drove to see my amazing friend Jenny. Jennifer and I have been friends since the age of 7 when our Mother's introduced us (Jenny met her husband Brian at my 17th Birthday party) and although we meet rarely we always care about each other. There is a rare joy in meeting someone after a 3 or 4 year break and simply "carrying on the conversation. Incidentally, Jenny is still as beautiful as she was at age 7!!



Congratulations to the Liebler Family on the 50th wedding anniversary of Isi and Naomi here in their beloved Jerusalem. Naomi is World President of Emunah and Isi is known for his writings and determination to make the Jewish world a better place. Mazal Tov to you both "ad me'ah ve esrim beyachad"



An early Shabbat Shalom, hoping for a continuation of the rain and a cessation of political ambition for the betterment of the people - we need a smidgen of political stability! I know, I am back in Pollyanna-land!!!



Love from a wet and windy Jerusalem

Sheila

Thursday 5 February 2009

Shabbat Shalom from Sheila

090204



4th February 2009.



The Kassams and Grads are still falling on Israel, http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3665905,00.html although Hamas claims not from them. Extremism begets fanaticism and just as Fatah begat Hamas so Hamas begat factions who believe that Hamas "sold out" to the West by accepting a cease fire. The Egyptians have already set up CCTV scrutiny and guard posts on the Egyptian side of the Philadephi Corridor. Too little too late; but a step forward nonetheless.



Incidentally, now that are accused of war crimes with the media as judge and jury UNWRA ADMITS WE DIDN'T BOMB THEIR SCHOOL IN GAZA! http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20090129.wgazaschool29/BNStory/International/home



NGO Monitor has labeled the current spate of suits against IDF Officers as Lawfare – Please read http://www.ngo-monitor.org/article/the_ngo_front_in_the_gaza_war_lawfare_against_israel

By the way, remember Dr Mads Gilbert who was interviewed by all the major stations as an "independent observer" after his visit to Gaza? Well apparently he is an Al Qaeda supporter who believes that 9/11 was justified!



I received a deeply distressing video from Bernardo Romanowsky which I sent to my hasbara list which others, including Naomi Ragen forwarded. A San Francisco demonstration could be in pre-war Germany. http://zombietime.com/gaza_war_protest/ The dehumanisation of Jews is reaching 1933 levels and if YOU do not fight back it will get worse. How ironic that this demonstration was held in San Francisco when the PA and Hamas, like the Nazis, kill and torture homosexuals. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_rights_in_the_Palestinian_National_Authority

Surely it is time to lobby our politicians to ensure that the 1st Amendment be tempered by an incitement to hatred clause.


Gilad Schalit – Israel sees no victory in Operation Cast Lead without bringing Gilad home. Hamas has broken every one of the Geneva Convention laws on captives and has not allowed the Red Cross access, but they have finally admitted they know where he is and that they control his release and are willing to talk. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3666458,00.html



In Caracas, Venezuela the constant incitement by Chavez and his cohorts paid off when last Saturday night a group of thugs went into the Caracas Sefardi Synagogue daubed the walls with hate graffiti, pulled Sifrei Torah from the Ark and unrolled them on the floor. Chavez denounced the act, but since has publicly and loudly derided and berated the Jewish community, especially those who helped him gain power the responsibility lies with him. Chavez chose to lay down with an Iranian dog and now he has fleas. They use Goebbels propaganda methods to dehumanise Jews before killing them - in a much less sophisticated manner than the press, but it works. http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1233304645657&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull

However - on Monday Chavez announced a public holiday to celebrate his 10th year in power and ordinary Venezuelans took the opportunity to paint over the graffiti on the Synagogue and clean the façade. http://radardelosbarrios.blogspot.com/

The USA, Europe, the UN, the Arab States demand an end to Jewish settlement on Arab lands (of which there are vast tracts). Tiny Israel however is planning to build a new Arab town in the Galilee region of some 2,000 living units. This begs a question which no-one ever asks. Why are there demands that Jews remove all traces of their existence from Moslem lands when Jews accept Arabs as partners in our only dot on the globe? It is essential to know that in 1,300 years (from the 7th Century to the 20th Century) only one town was built by the few Moslems on this land, even during the Ottoman period. That town was Ramle, which was their capital city – not Jerusalem which they considered too awkward to reach and too much of a backwater. All the towns and cities in Israel, including a large number of Arab towns, were built over the last 60-70 years. Compare Israel's and Moslem colonial Wars to see who the "settlers" really are. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_wars_in_the_Muslim_world



Tu b'Shvat, New Year for Trees falls on Sunday 8th February. http://www.aish.com/tubshvat/tubshvatinterests/Ecology_A_Jewish_Perspective.asp Traditionally all schoolchildren, indeed all of us, plant a new tree, ensuring our future climate and soil, but we have a problem – we do not have enough water to sustain young trees. The glorious weather continues and rain is scarce. We are in the middle of a water catastrophe. Here are some lovely tree photos of trees with history in Israel.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/124978



The other day Zvi and I watched a report of wealthy, educated New Yorkers who plunder supermarket waste bins and find perfectly good food which has reached its sell-by date; thrown away, yet perfectly edible. We both commented that here in Israel that would never happen. There is an outstanding organization called Table to Table which collects all such food, including untainted excess food from banqueting halls and hotels, which they distribute to the needy. This wonderful organization was founded by our friend Julie Kotchitsky and it has gone from strength to strength. Their work is essential, especially in the current economic climate. http://purim.tabletotable.org.il/



After the Davos walk-out of Turkish PM Erdogan and the resulting anti-Semitic events in Turkey, that country lost its huge Israeli tourism. The Turks cannot give away their hotel rooms and almost all flights are cancelled. Why on earth should they show such anger at their closest ally in this region? Hear President Peres eloquent, honest and powerful speech which begins at minute 39 http://jeffreygoldberg.theatlantic.com/archives/2009/01/peres_drops_an_eloquence_bomb.php



Life goes on in a round of events as we try to avoid the Political Party Broadcasts which last a minimum of half an hour, one after another. The problem is that as they speak one must read between the lines and try to remember their history and veracity! Admittedly the idea of women as Prime Minister, President of the Supreme Court and Speaker of the Knesset appeals to me! Explanations and list of parties http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/History/Modern+History/Historic+Events/Elections_in_Israel_February_2009.htm



A month ago Jerusalem lost one of its oldest (89) and best known "characters", Danny Angel of Angel's Bakery (pronounced Ann-jels, not like cherub) Danny was the eighth generation of his pure-blooded Sefardi family (Samech tet) who believed that "wealth is not a dirty word" and could be seen all over Jerusalem drinking coffee with his patrons. When asked after his health his response was always "Gan Eden" the Garden of Eden, even throughout his long fight with cancer. Danny built what was a small local bakery into the "bread of Israel". When he met dignitaries he handed them his business card which declared him "the head of the Mafiah" (bakery in Hebrew is Ma'afiah)! Jerusalem misses Danny Angel and although Zvi's parliament will continue to meet each Friday morning at Angel's in the petrol station – sadly Danny won't pop in to chat and drink café hafuch. May his soul rest in peace. http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/pages/ShArtStEngPE.jhtml?itemNo=1054591&contrassID=2&subContrassID=5&title=%27Jerusalem%27s%20town%20baker%20%27&dyn_server=172.20.5.5





Shabbat Shalom. During the Amidah when you pray for dew, ask for rain, rain, rain!

With much love from beautiful, blossoming Jerusalem,

Sheila