Shabbat Shalom,the Coalition, Ice City

130222

22^nd February 2013

Before wishing you Shabbat Shalom........... Happy Birthday Sammy Samsam!! Happy birthday wonderful eight year old.

Now Shabbat Shalom to you all, Shabbat Shalom and Purim Sameach. Remember that Purim is the story of a clever man with a brave and beautiful niece who together saved the Jewish people from a Persian tyrant. Worth thinking about.

I must start with a very sad story. Sad because it shows how one idiotic telephonist can ruin the good will of an amazing organisation and cause heartbreak and ill health. An Arab Israeli woman in Beit Safafa, right near our home, called Natali ambulance service because her husband was ill. The operator, after a period of waiting told her that they would not come out because Beit Safafa is an Arab neighbourhood. I am disgusted and angry, Beit Safafa is a good neighbourhood of Jerusalem not some crazy wild place! I wish I could find that lady and apologise to her. I am ashamed. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4347966,00.html

We still don't have a government and it seems to be getting further and further from actually happening. The PM brought in Tsippi Livni's “HaTnuah” offering her Peace Talks with the Palestinians. This horrified both Bennet and Lapid who have formed their own coalition, preferring to sit in opposition than agree to sit with Livni and Shas. Decision will hav eto be made by the PM or we are off to another round of elections and he would not win – Yair Lapids “Yesh Atid” and Bennet's “Jewish Home” would. Gosh it is frustrating!!

The Israeli press, obviously bored with the election/coalition saga has been concentrating on truly important matters – the PM's monthly ice-cream bill. Honestly! They make out as if it is just his family without any thought of the staff, security and guests!The only good thing about the idiotic story is that the ice-cream parlour right near the PM's home has tripled its business from the advertising!!!

After the Bulgarian investigation proved that Hezb-Allah was behind the Burgas bus bomb; the Cypriots have arrested others who were plotting attacks on Israelis. Despite this, and the strong advice of the USA and the UK, the Europeans still refuse to declare Hezb-Allah a terror organisation!

Underestimating threats is the greatest disease of the Western World. I don't know if it is arrogance or ignorance, but it is not good. When Iran threatens to wipe out its enemies – we negotiate. Now North Korea has threatened to "eliminate" South Korea - which barely hit the news and they forgot to report when North Korea threatened to "eliminate" the USA but no-one seems bothered. http://www.examiner.com/article/nkorea-threatens-final-destruction-aimed-at-south-korea

Nigeria, threatened by the Islamic extremists in its midst, decided to show that she is not willing to accept their form of terrorism. Their example should be followed http://www.thetimesofnigeria.com/TON/Article.aspx?id=3831

Because we are different to our neighbours, we upgraded Palestinian electricity lines for free!

http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/HumanitarianAid/Palestinians/Israel_upgrades_electricity_lines_Gaza_3-Feb-2013.htm#.URK091dNqSN.twitter

You absolutely must read this article from Melanie Phillips. It describes the torture of defending liberty and freedom of press in "liberal" Europe http://www.melaniephillips.com/the-terminal-poison-of-the-european-liberal

This week saw many wonderful people who care about the Jewish world arriving in Jerusalem for the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency meetings. Both plenum speakers and individual committees made important decision and Zvi was involved in the meetings. For me it was a time to renew old friendships and to my delight I even had time to sit and talk with Leonard Cole who told me all about his latest bookhttp://www.jstandard.com/content/item/how_to_plan_for_a_disaster/25099 and with Yocki (Johanna) Arbib, the young World Chair of Keren Hayesod who I met an incredible 20 years ago and so many more. I get so excited when you tell me that you feel informed by my letters – it is so important to me.

One of the best aspects of old friends visiting is that we take the time to see museums. Our lovely friends Nattie and Yolli Zonzsein came to Jerusalem and we went to see the new Herod exhibition in the Israel Museum. The site of Herodian is just outside Jerusalem, in the West Bank. The site remained untouched and the artifacts hidden during both Jordanian and PA times. Israeli archaeologists have uncovered wonders , during years of meticulous work, discovering the burial site of Herod himself. What do the NY Times, LA Times et al say about this wonderful exhibit? That we “stole” the artifacts – Herod is now Palestinian according to the NY Times! The exhibit is phenomenal, the detailed explanations exceptional. Well worth seeing. Indeed it is so good that Zvi took David and Anthea Same from Melbourne to see it the very next day! We had fun and then all of us went to Zion ha Gadol for lunch http://www.imj.org.il/exhibitions/presentation/exhibit.asp?id=850

The next day we went to the opening of the new exhibits in the Mamilla Mall. Our wonderful friend Irit Levhas three gorgeous models on show – I think among her best. Sitting in Aroma coffee shop after the reception, together with friends of Irit and Itziks from Seattle who were amazed at the variety of both passers-by and diners. They couldn't believe that Jews of all types, Moslems, Christian priests, tourists and Israelis all melded together in the wonderful atmosphere of this open air Mall next to the Jaffa Gate! Yes, the Jerusalem Rainbow is the best people-watchers view!

As we were looking at Irit's statues some young men were taking a photo of it. Of course Zvi and I went to talk to them and ask them if they wanted to have a photo with the artist. Of course they said yes and we began to speak to them. They were from Beijin, were thrilled to visit Israel and amazed at how open and fun Jerusalem was. They intended going home with their photos to persuade everyone to come!!!

Yesterday evening was a triple joy!!! Our friends Danby and Marvin Meital invited us to go with them to the opening night of “Ir ha Kerach” or Ice City. It began with an incredible show with skating acrobats from China which delighted and then moved on to the central attraction and we froze! No I mean WE FROZE! We wore our huge down coats, two sweaters, hats gloves and scarves (and Ir haKerach handed out more coats to visitors) and entered a fairyland of ice. The Summer Palace, Dinosaurs, fish and creatures, a coloured labyrinth, a carriage, indeed so much the eye could barely absorb it all – and all made of ice. Phenomenal!http://www.gojerusalem.com/discover/item_13730/Ice-City-International-Ice-Festival-in-Jerusalem After that the tourism office took us to the premiere of a new show AH! JERUSALEM which is performed three times a week , in English, and tells the story of Israel in a truly amusing, wonderfully musical and entertaining show.http://www.timesofisrael.com/ah-a-jerusalem-premiere/

“The Voice” has overtaken the world and Israel is no exception. Two finalists are Lina Machul a young Arab girl from Akko (Acre) and Ataliyya a Black Hebrew from Dimona – see for yourself

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn4_5Yd6ie8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F59p9_AJaM

I just took a break from you guys to go and visit my glorious grandchildren in Givat Zeev. I love getting them showered and dressed for Shabbat and hearing about their day. Their Mummy, my daughter Rachel, has created an epicurean festival as she prepares the food for Shabbat. I thought I was good at preparing a myriad of salads by my Rachel puts me to shame!! The children were gleaming and scrubbed – waiting for Shabbat as they helped their Mummy set the table, as their Mummy used to help me – tradition, tradition, tradition. It is who and what we are. I know I always wax lyrical about the view from Samuel's Tomb but...... oh I cannot resist it!!! This time of year the incredible sight is enhanced by puffs of pink and white blossom on every clear space as the wild almond trees, the shkediot, create pinks clouds among the white buildings of the landscape. This is the time that Jerusalem is waking up after winter – the shekdiot, the calaniot (bright red poppies) covering grassland and desert alike after the rains, rakefot (cyclamen peeping out from every rock, hanging on precariously to show off her beautiful pink flowers. So beautiful.

Today I am not cooking, thanks to Harold Finger who is here with his family to celebrate his 60^th birthday. We are very excited to be invited to join them in “Spoons” the wonderful home of Hila Solomon, in Yemin Moshe. Harold has taken the path from Young Leadership through to Jewish Australian leadership, taking his natural progression as his responsibility. Leadership demands responsibility and Harold accepts his with a smile. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR HAROLD.

The parking lot of the shopping mall is emptying, the shops closing, the shopkeepers and workers alike wending their weary way home. This has been a very busy week for them. Fancy dress costumes of every conceivable variety and baskets for “Mishloach Manot” the Purim gifts that one gives out to friends and workmates. Mishloach manot is not just sweeties and chocolates, it originates as a gift to those who did not have enough food to celebrate the festivities – and should also contain food of value- not just calorific value!!!

My best moment today was when I was leaving my grandchildren the little one, Ayala, came running towards me with my Mishloach Manot – “just because I wanted to give you something Safta, it's Purim”

Dear friends, Shabbat is drawing near and then Purim – we must remember that Purim is the story of a cruel Persian tyrant who wanted to kill all the Jews, but was outfoxed by a clever man and his incredibly brave young niece. We are still fighting Persian tyrants, they still want to kill us and now all we need is a good Mordechai and Esther plot!!!

Shabbat Shalom, sorry todays was a long letter but, hey, we did so many things this week!!!!

With love from Jerusalem, the most beautiful rainbow in the world

Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem- Australia and the Presidents Conference

130214

14^th February 2013

Shabbat Shalom dear friends.

I need to begin with a very serious story to honour our many Australian friends who may be distressed and disturbed by the news stories racing around one rather unwise young man who came to live in Israel, was inducted into the Mossad and on visits to Iran, using his Australian passport and identity, changed sides and became a double agent for Iran.

There is a great deal of media discussion over Ben Zigllier/Ben Allen/ Ben Alon, an Australian/Israeli citizen who committed suicide in an Israeli jail. I want you to understand that he was under serious suspicion of endangering Israel's most basic security; he consulted his lawyers the day before; his grieving parents want no fuss; the Israeli authorities had informed the Australian authorities of his arrest, the reasons and of his demise and while desperately sad it is all above board.

The intention of the media gag order was to prevent the ultimate results, endangering the lives of Israeli agents and informants who may have met with him in enemy countries. The person who leaked the story should have his press card removed. At the very least.

All the relevant reports are together on this site
http://www.timesofisrael.com/?utm_source=The+Times+of+Israel+Daily+Edition&utm_campaign=9cfa819265-2013_02_14&utm_medium=email

Here is the official statement by the Israeli Ministry of Justice

“The Prison Service detained a prisoner who held both Israeli and foreign citizenship. For security reasons, the prisoner was held under an alias; however, his family was immediately notified of his detention and he was represented, in all proceedings in his regard, by attorneys Roi Belcher, Moshe Mazur and Boaz Ben-Tzur. The prisoner was held in prison pursuant to an arrest warrant that had been issued by the authorized court. Proceedings regarding the prisoner were overseen by the most senior Justice Ministry officials and the prisoner's individual rights were maintained, according to law.
The prisoner was found dead in his cell approximately two years ago. Subsequently, Hon. Judge Dafna Blatman-Kadrei, President of the Rishon Lezion Magistrates Court, held a coroner’s inquest into the cause of death, in accordance with the 1958 Coroner’s Inquest into Causes of Death Law. An order was issued that the hearing be held behind closed doors. This order is still in force.

n all proceedings conducted on the matter, including the coroner’s inquest into the cause of death, the deceased and his family were represented by the aforementioned attorneys.
Beyond this, additional details about the affair may not be published, for reasons of state security. These security issues were examined by the Central District Court which decided to issue a sweeping gag order on the affair. This order was issued at the request of the security authorities, which was approved by the relevant Justice Ministry officials. “

Methinks that the probable reason for his suicide is the fact that his lawyers told him he would serve the rest of his life in jail.

The Australian journalist who revealed the story and MK's Tibi and Gal-On ,have misled the public by suggesting conduct unbecoming by the Israeli Government.

President Obama is coming to Israel. More importantly President Obama is coming to Jerusalem, making his intentions clear. He will spend three days in Jerusalem with a quick two hour visit to nearby Ramallah. Before his visit to Amman he will go with Mr Netanyahu to see the Iron Dome installations then return to Jerusalem and say his farewell to the Israeli PM and have dinner with President Peres. To those who disagree with my sentiments, I have always maintained that deriding ones leader is deriding ones country and I for one believe in the Presidents good intentions toward his greatest ally when he comes to our city to meet with our leaders.

. http://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2013/02/m-three_days_in_jerusalem_two_hours_in_ramallah.html

Syria becomes less stable and more dangerous by the second. Their vast array of unconventional weapons is now common knowledge, much of it came from Iraq before the Allied troops went in, and since both sides in this conflict are the wrong hands one cannot allow this dangerous situation to continue. Demand clear statements of condemnation to the UN from your country through your local politicians.

This week Zvi and I accepted a most gracious invitation from Dr Malcolm Hoenlein to join the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations in Jerusalem. The conference was fascinating with outstanding speakers on just about every sphere of Israeli politics, policy and security and a truly impressive group of people led by Mort Zuckerman, a real hero who fights our battle with wise words. The participants ran the gamut from Peace Now to Orthodox Union and Ameinu. If I had to choose the most outstanding it would be Dr Tal Becker of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, journalist Khaled Abu Toameh who amazed his audience by telling them the truth. Khaled told them that peace was not a feasible option with most of our neighbours, that Israel must reach a modus vivendi as its best possible option. He also said that in order to make this a more balanced and fairer society, not only Heredim but also Arabs must enlist in the IDF, not necessarily in fighting units, not only because of the equaliser effect of army service but since when anyone applies for a job he is asked what his or her position was in the IDF many Arabs miss out on the chance of employment. Ambassador Daniel Shapiro won my heart, not only by his careful “diplomatic” manner but because of his lapel pin, with American and Israeli flags intertwined, and the fact that at every opportunity he spoke Hebrew with all who could! Another visitor at the diplomatic table, although he didn't speak, was the French Ambassador Christophe Bigot (pronounced bijot) who has proven to be a wonderful friend of Israel.

Both Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennet spoke well. Their English is impeccable and their message was refreshing. Naftali Bennet proved to be far more flexible than his reputation and he said that 70% of our beliefs are harmonious and only 30% disagreements so let's concentrate on the 70% and work together to improve the wonderful country that we have. I pray that these two see their way to join the Government and change the old school because it just isn't working!

El Al CEO Eliezer Shkedi came to tell us all about the new programme whereby flight crews go out to towns, communities and churches as Ambassadors for Israel, after training with Standwithus. What a great idea.

The Conference is always a great success, primarily because of two people, Carolyn Greene who takes care of all the logistics with incredible patience and class and the inimitable Dr Malcolm Hoenlein. Malcolm holds together the disparate American organisations through his incredible diplomatic abilities – abilities that aided his work with all the all the American administrations for many years, garnering huge respect for his views and his abilities, making him a welcome visitor at the White House irrespective of the political leanings of the various Presidents. He is a brilliant proponent of Israel's position in the USA and too often he stands behind the lay leaders without receiving his due acclamation. Malcolm – you are my hero!!!! http://www.conferenceofpresidents.org/content.asp?id=63

It is nearly Shabbat, although only half the food is prepared. We will have the ever popular Kubeh Soup, although I always do the ethnic switch and add some kneidlach for the grandchildren; This will be followed by marinated chicken pieces in mushroom sauce (it's easy to make it with coconut milk) on Moroccan rice and to ensure the ethnic mix we will have Israeli chopped salad followed by a very British Apple crumble!!!! As a special treat for the little girls I intend making chocolate cupcakes!

Tomorrow I will see my Jerusalem grandchildren to bathe them and get them beautiful (if it is possible to improve on their natural beauty) for Shabbat. On my way home, as I pass the prophet Samuels Tomb my heart will again stop still for a moment as the incredible panoramic view of Jerusalem opens up before me - the overall sense of beauty and whiteness is overwhelming.

Shabbat will be special as we have three visitors as well as Zvi's son Leor, his wife Shiri and their three little girls, Liba Lauren Efron is coming from Tel Aviv, Tamara Gutverg is also coming for a free weekend from the army and a really nice gentleman that we met at the Conference who decided to stay over in Jerusalem and visit our veranda! Even now, although not yet Shabbat, the lights are twinkling over the city as night falls - I checked if the moon has risen yet, huge and bright on the horizon but, no not tonight, it is still too early in the month.

I hope that you will share your Shabbat with strangers and family alike – it is so much fun!!!

With much love from Jerusalem, the every beautiful, ever interesting, ever newsworthy city for which we yearned for 2,000 years.

Sheila

Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem- Australia and the Presidents Conference

130214

14^th February 2013

Shabbat Shalom dear friends.

I need to begin with a very serious story to honour our many Australian friends who may be distressed and disturbed by the news stories racing around one rather unwise young man who came to live in Israel, was inducted into the Mossad and on visits to Iran, using his Australian passport and identity, changed sides and became a double agent for Iran.

There is a great deal of media discussion over Ben Zigllier/Ben Allen/ Ben Alon, an Australian/Israeli citizen who committed suicide in an Israeli jail. I want you to understand that he was under serious suspicion of endangering Israel's most basic security; he consulted his lawyers the day before; his grieving parents want no fuss; the Israeli authorities had informed the Australian authorities of his arrest, the reasons and of his demise and while desperately sad it is all above board.

The intention of the media gag order was to prevent the ultimate results, endangering the lives of Israeli agents and informants who may have met with him in enemy countries. The person who leaked the story should have his press card removed. At the very least.

All the relevant reports are together on this site
http://www.timesofisrael.com/?utm_source=The+Times+of+Israel+Daily+Edition&utm_campaign=9cfa819265-2013_02_14&utm_medium=email

Here is the official statement by the Israeli Ministry of Justice

“The Prison Service detained a prisoner who held both Israeli and foreign citizenship. For security reasons, the prisoner was held under an alias; however, his family was immediately notified of his detention and he was represented, in all proceedings in his regard, by attorneys Roi Belcher, Moshe Mazur and Boaz Ben-Tzur. The prisoner was held in prison pursuant to an arrest warrant that had been issued by the authorized court. Proceedings regarding the prisoner were overseen by the most senior Justice Ministry officials and the prisoner's individual rights were maintained, according to law.
The prisoner was found dead in his cell approximately two years ago. Subsequently, Hon. Judge Dafna Blatman-Kadrei, President of the Rishon Lezion Magistrates Court, held a coroner’s inquest into the cause of death, in accordance with the 1958 Coroner’s Inquest into Causes of Death Law. An order was issued that the hearing be held behind closed doors. This order is still in force.

n all proceedings conducted on the matter, including the coroner’s inquest into the cause of death, the deceased and his family were represented by the aforementioned attorneys.
Beyond this, additional details about the affair may not be published, for reasons of state security. These security issues were examined by the Central District Court which decided to issue a sweeping gag order on the affair. This order was issued at the request of the security authorities, which was approved by the relevant Justice Ministry officials. “

Methinks that the probable reason for his suicide is the fact that his lawyers told him he would serve the rest of his life in jail.

The Australian journalist who revealed the story and MK's Tibi and Gal-On ,have misled the public by suggesting conduct unbecoming by the Israeli Government.

President Obama is coming to Israel. More importantly President Obama is coming to Jerusalem, making his intentions clear. He will spend three days in Jerusalem with a quick two hour visit to nearby Ramallah. Before his visit to Amman he will go with Mr Netanyahu to see the Iron Dome installations then return to Jerusalem and say his farewell to the Israeli PM and have dinner with President Peres. To those who disagree with my sentiments, I have always maintained that deriding ones leader is deriding ones country and I for one believe in the Presidents good intentions toward his greatest ally when he comes to our city to meet with our leaders.

. http://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2013/02/m-three_days_in_jerusalem_two_hours_in_ramallah.html

Syria becomes less stable and more dangerous by the second. Their vast array of unconventional weapons is now common knowledge, much of it came from Iraq before the Allied troops went in, and since both sides in this conflict are the wrong hands one cannot allow this dangerous situation to continue. Demand clear statements of condemnation to the UN from your country through your local politicians.

This week Zvi and I accepted a most gracious invitation from Dr Malcolm Hoenlein to join the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations in Jerusalem. The conference was fascinating with outstanding speakers on just about every sphere of Israeli politics, policy and security and a truly impressive group of people led by Mort Zuckerman, a real hero who fights our battle with wise words. The participants ran the gamut from Peace Now to Orthodox Union and Ameinu. If I had to choose the most outstanding it would be Dr Tal Becker of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, journalist Khaled Abu Toameh who amazed his audience by telling them the truth. Khaled told them that peace was not a feasible option with most of our neighbours, that Israel must reach a modus vivendi as its best possible option. He also said that in order to make this a more balanced and fairer society, not only Heredim but also Arabs must enlist in the IDF, not necessarily in fighting units, not only because of the equaliser effect of army service but since when anyone applies for a job he is asked what his or her position was in the IDF many Arabs miss out on the chance of employment. Ambassador Daniel Shapiro won my heart, not only by his careful “diplomatic” manner but because of his lapel pin, with American and Israeli flags intertwined, and the fact that at every opportunity he spoke Hebrew with all who could! Another visitor at the diplomatic table, although he didn't speak, was the French Ambassador Christophe Bigot (pronounced bijot) who has proven to be a wonderful friend of Israel.

Both Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennet spoke well. Their English is impeccable and their message was refreshing. Naftali Bennet proved to be far more flexible than his reputation and he said that 70% of our beliefs are harmonious and only 30% disagreements so let's concentrate on the 70% and work together to improve the wonderful country that we have. I pray that these two see their way to join the Government and change the old school because it just isn't working!

El Al CEO Eliezer Shkedi came to tell us all about the new programme whereby flight crews go out to towns, communities and churches as Ambassadors for Israel, after training with Standwithus. What a great idea.

The Conference is always a great success, primarily because of two people, Carolyn Greene who takes care of all the logistics with incredible patience and class and the inimitable Dr Malcolm Hoenlein. Malcolm holds together the disparate American organisations through his incredible diplomatic abilities – abilities that aided his work with all the all the American administrations for many years, garnering huge respect for his views and his abilities, making him a welcome visitor at the White House irrespective of the political leanings of the various Presidents. He is a brilliant proponent of Israel's position in the USA and too often he stands behind the lay leaders without receiving his due acclamation. Malcolm – you are my hero!!!! http://www.conferenceofpresidents.org/content.asp?id=63

It is nearly Shabbat, although only half the food is prepared. We will have the ever popular Kubeh Soup, although I always do the ethnic switch and add some kneidlach for the grandchildren; This will be followed by marinated chicken pieces in mushroom sauce (it's easy to make it with coconut milk) on Moroccan rice and to ensure the ethnic mix we will have Israeli chopped salad followed by a very British Apple crumble!!!! As a special treat for the little girls I intend making chocolate cupcakes!

Tomorrow I will see my Jerusalem grandchildren to bathe them and get them beautiful (if it is possible to improve on their natural beauty) for Shabbat. On my way home, as I pass the prophet Samuels Tomb my heart will again stop still for a moment as the incredible panoramic view of Jerusalem opens up before me - the overall sense of beauty and whiteness is overwhelming.

Shabbat will be special as we have three visitors as well as Zvi's son Leor, his wife Shiri and their three little girls, Liba Lauren Efron is coming from Tel Aviv, Tamara Gutverg is also coming for a free weekend from the army and a really nice gentleman that we met at the Conference who decided to stay over in Jerusalem and visit our veranda! Even now, although not yet Shabbat, the lights are twinkling over the city as night falls - I checked if the moon has risen yet, huge and bright on the horizon but, no not tonight, it is still too early in the month.

I hope that you will share your Shabbat with strangers and family alike – it is so much fun!!!

With much love from Jerusalem, the every beautiful, ever interesting, ever newsworthy city for which we yearned for 2,000 years.

Sheila

Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem - politics, fun and personal thoughts

130208

8^th February 2013

Shabbat Shalom dear friends. If I were to choose a quote that expressed my feelings, albeit not PC today, I would choose Benjamin Disraeli's response to the goading of a fellow Member “Yes, I am a Jew, and when the ancestors of the Right Honorable gentleman were brutal savages in an unknown island, mine were priests in the temple of Solomon”

I looked up the meaning of PARADOX because I hate misinforming you and the explanation was Ehibiting inexplicable or contradictory aspects . I then thought of the epitome of Paradox which is exhibited in opinion of the Middle East. The only country that reaches out the hand of friendship and aid to its neighbours; that gives succour to its enemies; that provides the world with incredible technological, medical and scientific advances; gave the world its social laws and honours, nay admires the West is the only country in the area that is constantly derided, upbraided and hated in favour of countries that hate the west, oppress their citizens, burn the American flag and declare war on the very countries that love them. Yup PARADOX if ever I saw one!!!!

Ban Ki Moon may be blind and deaf but sadly he is not mute. This week he held a press conference in which insisted, yet again, that a few houses on disputed land are the cause of all problems in the area. He forgot to mention the extreme and constant Palestinian building in those same disputed areas!!!

Hezb-Allah was behind Bulgarian bus bomb at the Burgas Airport – surprise surprise. Will Europe finally name Hezb-Allah as a terrorist entity? To follow, an article by rare, forthright and candid politicians whose staunch support of Israel separates them from most European leaders, David Trimble andJosé María Aznar.

“Jihadi terrorism is still alive and, as events in Mali and Algeria show us, poses a direct threat to us. The turmoil in North Africa reminds us that jihadism has no boundaries and that when confronting terrorism it is always better to prevent it rather than deal with its consequences. The EU, however, sometimes refuses to face the reality of terrorism. One strong case in point is Hezbollah.

In July last year a bus full of Israeli tourists was blown to pieces by a young suicide bomber in Burgas, Bulgaria — five Israelis and the Bulgarian bus driver were killed. All the evidence points to it being a plot conceived and executed by Hezbollah.”

http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/opinion/columnists/article3671013.ece

After the furore over the Gerald Scarfe's foul Times Cartoon, Rupert Murdoch apologised immediately and genuinely; the Editor apologised profusely for his lack of taste and forethought; as to Gerald Scarfe – he simply said he was sorry it was published on International Holocaust Day! Your letters helped. http://www.tomgrossmedia.com/mideastdispatches/archives/001335.html

After the Superbowl ad, Sodastream has become the target of the rabid BDS rabble. Here isthe truth http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl85AL1l0H0 The owners not only brought in people according to their abilities and the opportunity to work together in harmony but gave ALL faiths

prayer facilities on the site.

Driving to one of my meetings I was listening to the Israeli news channel and heard someone speak in the most perfect, beautiful Hebrew, with a slight Arabic accent. My ears pricked up and I learned that the man speaking was the director of Israel Radio in Arabic for Kol Yisrael. Yasser Nadila and a commentator whose name I didn't catch were proudly describing the fact that they had total autonomy over content of their programming and managed to put the REAL news from Israel out into the Arabic speaking world. It made me so happy. One Kol Yisrael programme that I love is Elihu Ben On's “The Israel Connection” whereby he speaks to Hebrew speakers all over the world hearing their views and opinions in Hebrew. http://www.israelradio.org/connection.htm

As usual we had a crazy week! It all began on Shabbat when Zvi and I met with the “Doppelt Volunteers”. Each year Carol and Steven Doppelt bring a group of friends and fellow congregants to volunteer in their projects in Haifa and they spend at least one weekend (Shabbat) in Jerusalem. This year Carol was sadly missed since a medical problem forced her to stay at home but as always their son Michael was central to their Shabbat, having just returned from a visit to Ethiopia where he and others accompanied some of the last Jews on their journey home. Their questions were varied and I left Zvi to talk about the politics – I talk about our way of life and all matters positive!!!!

As with all good events in Jerusalem there was an unexpected invitee, who the group met in the hotel elevator!!!! Sarah is a post-grad student at NYU and is writing a Thesis on womens rights/issues in various places in the world. She arrived in Jerusalem from Kurdistan and asked for my help in understanding womens issues in the various sectors of our complex society. Of course we invited her home and as luck would have it she arrived just as our dear friend Tim King bought his wonderful daughter Anna to discuss her immediate future and possibilities. Anna, a beautiful former model with the most glorious flame red hair, gave up her blossoming career to enter the IDF as a Hummer instructor. Anna, whose father Tim was one of the founders of the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem, is a proud Christian Israeli and spoke to Sarah about women in the IDF. It was such a joy listening to the intelligence with which both women discussed the subject. Anna, who is getting married in just a few months, would make the perfect advocate for Israel overseas – I hope her talents will be utilised by those who decide. In the meantime we wish Tim, Martha and of course the bride and groom a hearty Mazal Tov.

Actually the week began with brunch at Caffit in the Botanical Gardens with the Oppenheimers, which has become a delightful tradition for the four of us! It was a glorious day, the winter sun was shining as we sat and enjoyed the phenomenal salads. I love the fact that all the waiters there are students, post IDF and so funny and cute! Conversations often include them, the aura is gentle, the view amazing and the food they serve is exquisite! http://en.botanic.co.il/

Brunch was followed by a very exciting event. My wonderful grand-daughter Talia has proven her reading ability by completing her reading of the prayer book and an amazing “Sium Siddur” party ensued! The girls put on a two and a half hour show, singing, dancing and generally making all of the women in the audience, Mothers and Grandmothers, cry with joy and laugh in surprise. I was so proud of her and of her Mummy, especially when the last song they sang was for th Mothers, thanking G-d for giving these wonderful little girls a Mother who loves them so much.

Yesterday Zvi dragged me unwillingly to a lecture, one of a series on geneaology, conceived by our dear friend Motti Friedman. All I wanted was to rest no go to a lecture but as the speaker began I became enthralled. I learned a new word, Onomastics, or the study of names and all about the origin of Jewish names, when surnames began and how they were created. I had no idea of the variations of each individual name and began to realise why I had so much difficulty finding Zvi's ancestors – but also learned many new ways of looking. Who knew that by adding an asterisk to the search you opened a new world or opportunities? For instance, if you want to find all version of the name Abrahams you would write Abra* and all the alternatives would appear!!!! The lecture was interspersed with accounts of enormous historical significance as well as information on tracing family. Next week I will accompany Zvi willingly!!!!

It is Friday, the wind is blowing, the air crisp and everyone is returning home to prepare for Shabbat and snuggle under the warm covers for their “schlaffshtunder” or siesta. Shabbat comes in early and the preparations over before the lighting of the candles to welcome the bride of Shabbat into our homes. The expectation of Shabbat is all around, the air redolent with the aromas of many continents, of epicurean traditions that arrived with communities as they fled homeward from persecution in foreign lands. Israels melting pot is special because we have an important common denominator – Judaism.

I leave you with a special recording of Hatikvah by Al Jolson. Shabbat Shalom to you – whoever and wherever you may be. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqB8kZjxOCI

With much love from Jerusalem, our common denominator of love, yearning, beauty and joy.

Sheila