140307 Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem. Boat capture, Purim, Welsh evening, PM in LA, Canon Andrew White

140307

7^th March 2014

Shabbat Shalom dear Friends. I hope this missive finds you well.

I am happy to start on a high note, as usual because we have a wonderful friend by the name of Canon Andrew White. Nothing stops that man, not war, illness nor cynicism. Andrew had a successful meeting in Cyprus which brought together Iraqi Moslems, Christians and Jews and a similar Israeli mix, just to talk. Talk and try to discover their similarities rather and accept their differences. Andrew, the only man who seems to be doing it right. Maybe because he comes from a place of love not from politics. Andrew is now in Jerusalem – I knew because the ambiance is a fraction lighter. Sadly the hope that Andrew engendered through this important conference is dashed when one remembers the absolute despair and carnage in Andrews beloved Iraq.

NYU, that bastion of freedom and high learning held a secret anti-Israel pro-BDS meeting. It is a distressing sign of the times whereby freedom of speech is thus abused to incite hatred. Pure and simple. Can you imagine a proud “hatefest” were announced against any other country or people?http://www.tabletmag.com/scroll/164938/nyu-holds-secret-anti-israel-conference

It sounds dramatic, indeed it is dramatic, when the news media screams out the headlines "Israel captures boat with Iranian missiles bound for Gaza" but the truth is it represent many months of hard graft. 

IDF intelligence has been monitoring the activities of the contents of the boat 

from its source in Syria through the long and tortuous route to the Red Sea. 

Shayetet 13 is the elite unit which took the ship without any resistance from the 

Captain. They found several dozen advanced Syrian M-302 missiles, with a range 

of up to 200 kilometers (125 miles) and a payload of up to 170 kilograms (375 

pounds). Even that is not the whole story, the drama is greater than it appears. 

Israel and the United States Intelligence Services have been working closely 

throughout and it was Israel's decision to capture the ship and the Americans 

acceded to their wish. So much happens beneath the surface. The cooling of 

relations has always been at the political, not the military or intelligence level. 

 http://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-intercepts-major-iranian-weapons-shipment-to-gaza/

What strikes me as incredible is the convoluted machinations of the warmongers in their attempt to wreak havoc – a Panamanian ship, Turkish crew, missiles and a veritable arsenal of evil made in Iran, sent to Syria, through Iraq and Sudan into the Red Sea............. and the fools demonstrating in NYU still think Israel is the problem!!!!

The new Crimean War has taken the headlines here in Israel. As Americas leadership is weakened Russia is becoming stronger and stronger. Rabbi Jeremy Rosen again hits the nail on the head.

“As I watched the Sochi Winter Olympics, I thought of Putin’s long shadow was cast, malevolently, over the construction, the management, and the security of the event. I wondered what act of aggression he would get up to next. His smirking, self-satisfied, bullying presence thumbed a nose at the civilized world as he gloated over his support for totalitarian regimes in Chechnya, Syria, Moldova, and Georgia. His malevolent involvement in other countries and the blatant way he suppresses and imprisons opposition at home are chilling. His KGB nature reveals itself for what it is. Well, now we know. A leopard and his spots! “ http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.co.il/

The AIPAC Conference came and went. Vice President Joe Biden spoke before the plenum and many events took place, undoubtedly taking important decisions but without the publicity which usually accompanies the AIPAC events. Our wonderful friends David Efron and Kathy were very excited by events there so I am certain that it was simply a case of lack of publicity.

Apparently the cooling of Israel/USA relations is deeper than Presidential level and we have always known that the State Department (like the British Foreign Office) is cool toward their closest ally, but has taken a sinister turn with visas being denied for anyone who served in Israeli Intelligence.http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/.premium-1.578127

When Ambassador Danny Gillerman left his position as Israel's Ambassador to the UN I thought we could never do as well, let alone better, but I was wrong. Ron Prosor, former Ambassador to the Court of St James has done a truly phenomenal job as Israel's Ambassador to that once august organisation. http://www.jpost.com/Features/In-Thespotlight/JPost-conference-preview-Ron-Prosor-on-Israel-and-the-United-Nations-344030

Not only Syria! Israeli medical teams are not only helping victims of Syrian warfare (over 500 patients to date) but also in the Ukraine. http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/178162#.UxmzwD-SxLc

Alice Herz-Sommer did not just survive the Holocaust, saved by her exceptional musical talent, she endured unbearable tragedy and continued to smile, to exude love and to produce joyous music until her death in London last week at the age of 110. Her life and vivacious personality were her revenge. The film of her amazing life won an Oscar, surely the greatest and sweetest revenge of all.  http://www.haaretz.com/jewish-world/jewish-world-news/1.577630

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “Bibi” had dinner with the gliterattti of Hollywood, of those who love Israel anyway. In an informal dinner at the home of Israeli businessman Arnon Milchan. Truly star studded it included Leonardo di Caprio, Barbara Streisand, Robert de Niro, Kate Hudson, Keanu Reeves and many many more. One must not underestimate the influence of these stars .http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4494923,00.html

Talking of the PM's visit to LA – After the Oscar victory parties, another international star attended the world premiere of his latest film on Tuesday evening. The star was none other than Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, and the title of the television film is Israel: The Royal Tour. The PM, along with some 500 guests, attended the premiere screening of the film expected to significantly increase tourism to Israel. Get a preview of the movie here http://www.jpost.com/International/Netanyahu-attends-world-premiere-of-his-film-in-Los-Angeles-344332

Gosh, so much news that I didn't leave much room for personal stuff!

Last Shabbat, since the children came late, Zvi and I went for a glorious walk in “Emek ha Matsleva” The Valley of the Cross. Zvi feels that I am more than a little over-enthusiastic , my excited photography at anything that seemed wild and colourful - shkediot (almond blossom), rakafot (wild cyclamen) and calaniot- wild anemones........... and the most beautiful flowers of all, the children running around in delight at the wild flowers.

Sunday evening saw me driving to Netanya via my lovely friend Averil in Herzliya. Our purpose was to arrive in plenty of time to meet up with our past – our wonderful past as Welsh Jews. You can imagine the excitement of all concerned as we saw people who had somehow dropped from our lives over the last 20/30/40 years. Gerald and Mimi Rapport did us proud as Gerald paraded in his amazing Welsh Dragon Sweatshirt. The tables were set with Welsh Dragon napkins, daffodils and the walls festooned with flags. Imagine, a group of Welsh people, mostly religious, happily celebrating St David's Day – the Welsh National Day. As I look for facts to give you about this Saint I found that he indeed came to Jerusalem because it was believed that if you came to Jerusalem all your former sins were dissolved.

I just got back from collecting the children from school and taking them home before Shabbat. As we neared Givat Zeev we suddenly saw a colossal flock of goats tended by small children. At first I was excited and then wondered why those children were not at school – apparently bettering oneself is not high on the priority list of their parents. So sad because I want everyone in Israel to have equal opportunities but without education............

That's it for now folks. I have to put the finishing touches to Shabbat, set the table and put the food out and of course get all the Purim goodies ready for the children. Masks to colour, boxes for their Mishloach Manot and goodies! Purim, truly a story of heroism over greed. The story of Queen Esther, her fine Uncle Mordechai, a rather stupid King and his evil Vizier who feared the Jews and wanted them killed (yeah yeah yeah – heard that one more than once eh?). Mordechais brains, Esthers beauty and the Kings love for her saved the Jews and taught the evil, greedy Vizier Haman a lesson. Where on earth are Esther and Mordechai today?

https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Judaism/holiday9.html

So dear friends. Let's make this year into Purim, let's stand up and speak out. We can either bow down to the king or be clever and woo him to understand the evil of his advisors.

For Shabbat I chose three very different songs, with the incredible voice of David D'Or. One is Amazing Grace which he sang for President Obama in our Presidents Househttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trsYJowcEMQ the second is the prayer Avinu Malkeinu (Our Father Our King) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1xxg4022rM and finally a very special version of the song which welcomes the bride of Shabbat. Lecha Dodi. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gx4IaNQGo4I Enjoy

With much love from wonderfully balmy, warm and beautiful Jerusalem, about to turn golden as we near Shabbat.

Sheila

PS I want to brag about my nephew Steven and his beautiful wife Claire. They are not only invited to the Palace for a Royal Garden Party, not only won the award for the best display in Britain but................. have been recognised for their amazing works too!! Bravo to you – I love you! 

Shabbat Shalom letter from Jerusalem

120309
9th March 2012

Chag Shushan Purim Sameach!!! Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom to one and all

As one reads the “Megilla” or story of Esther, Uncle Mordechai, King Achasueros and the evil villain Vizier Haman it is really difficult not to make comparisons to today and the situation with Iran. Few leaders are willing to speak out about the true danger of the Iranian nuclear programme, preferring to pull the wool over their constituents eyes by suggesting it is only those pesky Jews in Israel who are in danger.

British Prime Minister David Cameron, however, openly expresses his concerns over the Iranian threat. Speaking to Members of Parliament on the House of Commons liaison committee, the Prime Minister said Tehran is “clearhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifly very dangerous for the region because it would trigger a nuclear arms race,” but that Iran is also “a danger more broadly, not least because there are signs that the Iranians want to have some sort of intercontinental missile capability.”
“So we have to be clear this is a threat potentially much wider than just Israel and the region,” he said. http://bicom.org.uk/news-article/5812/


I wonder what role Muhammed El Baradei plays in this modern day Purim spiel? When discussing the new findings of the IAEA no-one mentions the fact that he was the worlds watch-dog on the Iranian Nuclear programme for the years that Iran was secretly developing a very sophisticates system yet he has since been exposed as a member of the Moslem Brotherhood. How did this happen? Who was watching the watchdog?

While threatening the world the Iranians kill Christians. 32 year old Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani was charged with apostasy, found guilty and sentenced to death. According to this article the sentence was carried out today. The crime according to the court record? “He has frequently denied the prophethood of the great prophet of Islam and the rule of the sacred religion of Islam. And he has proven http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhis apostasy by organizing evangelistic meetings and inviting others to Christianity, establishing a house church, baptizing people, expressing his faith to others and, denying Islamic values. “ http://bluestarchronicles.com/2012/03/03/youcef-nadarkhani-executed-christian-pastor-hanged-in-iran-for-being-christian/

Pat Condell is a highly irreverent, typically outspoken Brit. He says what we all think and fear to voice. In this most recent video he speaks of the ludicrous situation whereby Syria sits on the Human Rights council anhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifd Israel is vilified! http://dotsub.com/view/3ded8dbc-6612-4822-9d91-e605b59d05fd
Shimon Peres is a RAPPER!! The eternally young 88 year old President of the State of Israel has produced a new rap video for his Facebook page call (what else) “Be my friend for peace”. I love it!! Send it to all your lists and let's make it go viral. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ana9w3uSNA

Yesterday Zvi and I met up with the Mexican/San Diego artisthttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif Becky Guttin in Jerusalem http://web.mac.com/beckyguttin/Site/Home.html Becky is here to build a wonderful Magen David shaped amphitheatre close to the home of Hora Jerusalem's David Efron Dance Centre to provide a venue for small performances to groups and a place to sit on a balmy Jerusalem summers evening. We went to the Botanical Gardens for lunch – the first opportunity for months since the rains started. The weather was perfect, the gentle spring sun shone down on us to warm our hearts and the black swans glided on the water of the little lake. We watched fascinated as a turtle sat immobile on a rock in the water, soaking up the last rays of sun then wearily, as if to say that he understood there was no more, he slid into the cold water to seek food. The gardens are waking up, the trees beginning to leaf and the spring flowers to show their startling beauty against the brown earth. What a lovely place and the food........... mmmmmmm. I of course took my regular delight – Oreganatto Sweet Potato Salad.

Last night we went to the Jerusalem branch of the Israel Cancer Society Ball. Held at the breathtaking Bible Lands Museum which donates the venue http://www.blmj.org/en/index.php. It seemed so incongruous, nay surreal as hundreds of Israeli cowboys were walking through the normally hallowed hallways of the ancient history of the Middle East. Yes, you heard me – pure bred Israeli cowboys!!! It was so much fun as the normally elegant elite of Jerusalem dressed in chaps, stetsons and boots, ready to dance, sing and empty their pockets for a wonderful cause. One of the highlights was a young stand-up artist called Reshef Levi who amazed us all when he told us that he has seven children (“but then I have a crazy wife who thinks that's normal”!). Reshefs humour is gentle and personal as he took us into his home life and then asked questions of the audience. Of course he couldn't think of anything funny to say about the fact I was Welsh (he doesn't know the truth!!!) except to ask the age-old question “Are there really Jews in Wales”?

Do you know what an Adloyada is? Well most Israelis don't either!even though many go to one!! There are Adloyadas or parades in town centres all over Israel but few know what the name means. Ad lo Yada (until he didn't know) refers to the level of “enjoyment” one is supposed to derive from a generous tipple on Purim so that one cannot differentiate between Haman and Mordechai – between evil and good – as I told you in the past. We are not supposed to hold grudges, wreak vengeance so tradition suggests that we create just enough haze to make us happy. OK back to Adloyadas! Children and adults in fancy dress watch other people in fancy dress on floats as they float and dance and march through the town centre. Here in Jerusalem we tend to do things differently! Tomorrow, Shushan Purim, there will be street performers and singing on Ben Yehuda and Mamilla and we intend taking the grandchildren to see the spectacle. Meanwhile tonight the parties have started and the aromas of barbeques fill the smoky air as Israelis celebrate the triumph of good over evil with more than a little prayer that it will happen again in the near future.

By the way, did you notice my (un)deliberate mistake? Wheres there certainly was a miracle here – there wasn't a dreidle to be seen – they used them all onChanuka!!!

Shabbat shalom dear friends. Never give up hope even when things look more than a little bleak. It is said that we get the leaders we deserve so let's ensure that we deserve the best because otherwise … no I refuse to be miserable!!

With much love from a joyous Jerusalem, as stunningly beautiful as ever.

Shabbat Shalom letter from Jerusalem

120302
2nd March, 2012


Shabbat shalom dear friends. I hope you are all well.

This was a busy week in Jerusalem, Zvi was deeply involved in the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency where many discussions of the future of the Jewish World take place. Zvi's contribution is vociferous and innovative but not always welcome by those who enjoy sameness even when change is essential. There are many wonderful people who travel from all corners of the globe to take part in the discussions and decision making but the Jewish Agency is like ship without a captain or navigator. Expressing my views is unpopular but as I recall the Jewish Agency was a powerful glue between Israel and the Diaspora but that glue has come unstuck as Aliya and youth lose priority. The Agency must take great care that like Italian cruise liner, they do not go aground saying hello to people on the shore instead of piloting the ship.

I was thrilled to receive a call from Canon Andrew White from Baghdad. If you recall Canon White travelled to Ezekiels Tomb about 18 months ago to check the veracity of rumours that the local Sheikhs had destroyed the Jewish element of the Tomb. Happily he called on Jerusalem Day to inform me that not only was the Jewish element intact but the local Al Kifl Sheikhs were determined to preserve and refurbish the entire site. Over time we conversed and I sent photos of the original texts for the artisans to copy. This call from Canon White was different, he had Sheikh Al Gahalivi with him in a meeting. The Sheikh wanted to speak to me. I was overcome with emotion as he came on the line through an interpreter. He said “I was praying for many years that someone would care about the Tomb. I wanted to preserve the Tomb for us all and prayed that I would find someone to communicate with out there in the world and you sent Canon White to me and the work began in earnest. I want you to know that the Jewish shrine is safe with us, Ezekiel is important to us too. I want to build a visitors centre around the Tomb to protect it and to make it ready for when Jews, Christians and Moslems can all visit the Tomb together. I just wanted to thank you for caring and being prepared to act. Shukran and Salaam”
What on earth could I say to this brave man? Through the interpreter, and Canon White, I thanked the Sheikh for his care and determination to retain the Jewish identity of this important shrine in a world that might cause him harm.
Lior (Lotseh) Weinberger z”l was a fine man. I loved to sit with him at family meals to listen to his stories, his incredible history as an Officer in the Soviet Missile Corps. He told me everyone knew he was a Jew but it meant a great number of scuffles and name calling especially as he advanced through the ranks, a fact that toughened him up. One story in particular stuck in my mind. There was a plan in place to launch a rocket containing chemicals to poison the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). Serving his National Service in the Soviet army Lior's Jewish identity was strong and his relief when the plan was scuppered was total, he said that he even thought of mutiny. Years later as he made Aliya to Israel with his wife he vowed to prevent any such actions by anyone ever again. Their two sons served in elite units in the IDF. Yesterday a criminal driver drove his truck into Liors car killing him instantly and drove off. The Police caught him but it doesn't bring Lior back. Baruch dayan emet.

A few interesting details from the news.
Israel has appointed her first Ethiopian born Ambassador http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/About+the+Ministry/MFA+Spokesman/2012/Belaynesh_Zevadia_appointed_ambassador_Ethiopia_28-Feb-2012.htm
As Supreme Court President Dorit Beinisch steps down from her position Judge Asher Grunis takes his place as the new President. I wish him wisdom, good counsel, health and strength. http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Government/Personalities/From+A-Z/Asher_Grunis.htm
Denis Prager video – Is Israel an Apartheid State? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1dvwgjDAT8&feature=watch_response

Yesterday was St Davids Day, March 1st and Welshmen all over the world celebrated the patron saints day – yes even religious Jews in Netanya. Sadly I didn't make it to the annual festivities this year , due to the inclement weather but I wanted to capture the Welsh spirit for you and found the answer in a marvellous film “The Englishman who went up a hill and came down a mountain” Really really Welsh. http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/englishman_who_went_up_a_hill_but_came_down_a_mountain/#want_to_see
To fully understand you have to go to Cardiff's Millenium Stadium, scene of great Rugby Football and incredible breathtaking singing. This is the Welsh National Anthem. Happy St David's Day to all my Welsh friends. Cymru am byth.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqtIlaHIqrs

As a child back in Cardiff I spent a great deal of time with the Danovitch family. It seemed so exotic that one of them was married to a beautiful Israeli lady called Tova – even her name meant “good woman”. I loved her instantly and even though very young she was active in the local WIZO group, going with her mother in law Gertie and my mother Betty. Today, the Cardiff WIZO group is named for my wonderful mother and Tova Ben Dov is the world President of WIZO – and I – I am the exotic one living in Israel too!!! Mazal Tov Tova my love – you deserve it!!!

Yosef Eliyahu (Joseph Elija) is our 7 year old grandson and now he and his classmates, each and every one of them, is King of the school! They mastered the art of reading and the Chabad school held a Chumash Party. Each had to read his part in the programme, which is hard for a shy young man but little sisters cheered him on and stole his sweeties! After receiving their Holy Five Books, the boys then danced their hearts out, not as scholars but raucous little boys! My heart burst with pride.

The rain is phenomenal – it is March already and the fine spring weather is normally upon us but the rain is strong and wonderful. The snow is thick on Mount Hermon high in the Golan Heights, children tobogganing and adults skiing down her slopes, The formerly trickling streams are filled and rushing down toward the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) which is filling nicely – still some to go but really blessed rainfall. Last night it snowed in Jerusalem too but the ground was too wet for it to settle properly. Our veranda is looking more beautiful than ever – here in Israel the cyclamen is not a fragile house plant but rather a sturdy spring flower which loves the snow! The Jerusalem hills are covered in a pink cloud of Almond blossom (shkediot), bright red poppies (calaniot) wild pink cyclamen (rakafot). I ws worried the season would be over before we got home but they are still flowering. The Valley of the Cross is phenomenal and the only thing I missed is the incredible black Iris in Netanya which flowers at the end of January.

Purim is around the corner and children know what they want to dress up as for school! Children large and small walk through the streets dressed as everything from Superman to Mordechai – Tinkerbell to Queen Esther. The only aspect of Purim I don't like are the exploding caps and fireworks that the older children find amusing. This is a week filled with parties for young and old. We are going to a wonderful party organised by the Jerusalem Cancer Research society – and believe it or not we are all going as “Cowboys”

It feels so good to look out over our familiar, almost private scenery. Finally the hills around us are coming into view; they were hidden in the snow-filled clouds until a few minutes ago. Gilo over to my right, followed by Beit Tsafafa, Ramat Rachel, Talpiot, Baka, the German Colony around toRamat Sharret and the Holyland Project. Gosh it looks wonderful. Home.

Shabbat Shalom dear friend. I wish you a peaceful contemplative Shabbat filled with family and happy memories.
With all my love from Jerusalem
Sheila
PS Shhhhhhhhhh I didn't even mention Iran or the horrors of Syria and the worlds refusal to act!!!!

Shabbat Shalom letter from Jerusalem

110318
18th March 2011

Shabbat Shalom to you all!

What a crazy news week. A still unfolding tragedy in Japan as a natural disaster created a man made disaster; insanity in Libya as Ghadaffi continues his murderous determination to retain power; varied Arab and Moslem states are changing guard and a family was killed in one of the most inhuman acts of terror yet devised and the world of media didn't care.
THEY HAVE NAMES Ruth Fogel Udi Fogel Yoav Fogel Elad Fogel and baby Hadas Fogel

As always in Israel, each horrific story gives birth to acts of incredible humanity and kindness.

A Palestinian woman was found in distress giving birth to her baby which was born with the help of an IDF paramedic and paramedics from Itamar. The baby was born blue with the umbilical cord around its neck. The soldiers and paramedics worked and saved the mother and child who were taken to hospital in Israel. This story shows the difference in an ideology which glorifies life and an ideology of the glorifies of death. The IDF forces and local paramedics saved the life of a Palestinian woman and her newly born infant near the settlement where the Fogel relatives are sitting Shiva http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4043536,00.html

Rami Levi is a supermarket mogul who started in Jerusalem and has widened his empire – a very wealthy man. One day last week one of the Fogel family recognised the man who came to Itamar and walked into their kitchen laden with groceries for the family and their guests and began to fill their fridge and cupboards and did so every day of the Shiva. When asked what he was doing he responded that they should get used to his face because he would be coming every week to fill the fridge and freezer until the surviving children of the Fogel family reach the age of 18. Such stories fill my heart with hope and joy when men such as Rami Levi can show such generosity and kindness – such soul.
Where Is The Outcry Against Arab Apartheid? By Khaled Abu Toameh

Mohammed Nabil Taha, an 11-year-old Palestinian boy, died this week at the entrance to a Lebanese hospital after doctors refused to help him because his family could not afford to pay for medical treatment. The tragic case of Taha highlights the plight of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who live in impoverished refugee camps in Lebanon and who are the victims of an Apartheid system that denies them access to work, education and medical care.

Ironically, the boy's death at the entrance to the hospital coincided with Israel Apartheid Week, a festival of hatred and incitement organized by anti-Israel activists on university campuses in the US, Canada and other countries. It is highly unlikely that the folks behind the festival have heard about the case of Taha. Judging from past experiences, it is also highly unlikely that they would publicize the case after they heard about it. http://www.hudson-ny.org/1953/arab-apartheid

There's 192 Countries That Exist In The World & We Give Foreign Aid To Over 150 Of Them!" Rep Poe

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ocVj6UWiDI

The Victoria was a ship crossing the Mediterranean Sea – or so it seemed. The Israeli Coast Guard asked the ship to stop http://idfspokesperson.com/2011/03/15/videos-of-navys-request-and-subsequent-boarding-of-the-victoria/ and the arms cache they found http://www.flickr.com/photos/israel-mfa/5528995843/


Trinny and Susannah started their Israeli season last night. For the first time ever, in any country, they decided to appear at the opening of the season. The funniest moment was when Trinny stood in front of a group of people all of whom wanted to be chosen for a make-over and suddenly shouted “Will you wait for me, I do the choosing here – you Israelis are so pushy!” When asked why they chose to come to the opening and throw a big party Susannah said "I love it here and want to buy a holiday home. Israelis get such a bad rap outside Israel and we love you" They decided that Israel is fun, fascinating and has beautiful women!

Purim is around the corner. Let's try to bring down the latest Vizier of Shushan with a clever plot eh?
Go on, admit that a smile crept across their face at the thought!!!!

Each city's “Adloyada” is in the last throes of preparation – Mardi Gras has nothing on this!!!! Ad lo Yada.. until he doesn't know. One is supposed to imbibe alcohol on Purim so that one cannot tell the difference between friend and foe - not to imbibe until drunk but to prevent vengeance and revenge since one cannot distinguish between Haman and Mordechai. Today it has evolved into a grand parade with different schools, dance groups and choirs taking part. Representatives from many countries march in their national costumes and enjoy the sheer joy of this festival. Purim is truly the story of good over evil – of a woman willing to act as a spy, to use her womanly powers to help a Persian King understand that his Grand Vizier was a megalomaniac and xenophobe (sound familiar?). Queen Esther together with her brave advisor and uncle Mordechai succeeded in proving that Haman was a negative and cruel element in the Court and turned him into a laughing stock paraded riding backwards on his horse through the streets of the city. Mordechai was more than an advisor however, he gathered all the pure souls of Shushan in the town square and they prayed together "Ashrei ha-ish asher lo halach be-atzat reshaim…" (Happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked and in the way of sinners he does not stand and in the place of scorners he does not sit.)

Proof of the fact that the truly pure souls belong to children is seen during the week approaching Purim here on the streets of Jerusalem. Queen Esthers and Batmen; wicked Haman and Bratz; gentle Mordechai, Dora the Explorer, cowboys and policemen; hair of all colours and beautiful shining faces thrilled with their Purim outfits. Tiny children dressed as clowns and ballerinas as they go to kindergarten and school for party after party after party!

Hamentaschen, Haman's Ears, Haman's Purse, It really doesn't matter what you call them what matters is the taste. Once upon a time the were simple tri-corner pastry cases filled with poppy seed or mon, today they have become an epicurean delight filled with everything from chocolate to dulce di leche, mixed fruits, marmalade, crème anglais indeed virtually anything you wish! The stores that don't have hamentaschen have fancy dress outfits and everyone has a smile!

I am late today – but that gives me the chance to tell you that the shopping mall is emptying, the cars and buses taking everyone home to have a rest before Shabbat. I went out onto the veranda with my little grand-daughter Amit dressed in a wonderful white dress with pink hearts – her cheeks pink with both make-up and excitement her blonde curls dancing in the sun as she happily skipped about. She looked so wonderful – a future Esther maybe? This is a country of many Esthers – Israeli women are strong because they had to be and soft because they want to be – no Persian Vizier will convince us to bow our heads. We are proud and intend staying here in our home forever.

Tonight as women over the world light the Shabbat Candles, add a prayer for the Fogel family, for the souls of those who perished and to console those who survive. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=136222329781916&index=1

I wish you and yours a truly peaceful Shabbat to celebrate the wonderful things that surround us, by recognising the beauty of what we have we can defeat those who only see evil.

Love from the glorious city of Jerusalem as she goes to sleep in readiness to welcome the bride of Shabbat.
Sheila

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim

100225

26th February, 2010.



Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim dear Friends



Alon Ben-David Israel Channel 10’s military affairs correspondent spoke of the Dubai "Affair" and the subsequent enquiries into forged passports. It seems unlikely to him that 26 people would have participated in the assassination of one man. If one combined the team which followed al-Mabhouh (who had 5 false passports himself), the assassination team and those in charge of the escape and logistics, 26 is too unwieldy a number. Ben-David says that Dubai is a centre for planning global terrorist activity; in short Israel is no the only country interested in what happens in Dubai.

The story takes on a very different perspective if ones identity was stolen. The son of a close friend finds himself bombarded by the press and receiving calls from the Australian Secret Service, fortunately to help him clear his reputation and ability to travel. As a proud Israeli who served in the IDF he finds himself infamous and his name appearing in news-casts around the world.

"Don't Mess with the Mossad" has suddenly become one of the most popular T-shirt slogans of the century!!! Where is the best place to find said T-shirts? In the Arab shouk in Jerusalem of course!!!! http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/world/2010/0224/1224265091657.html



For 3,700 years Rachel's Tomb and the Tomb of the Patriarchs have been sites of religious significance in Judaism, second only to the Temple Mount. 3,700 years is 2,500 years before Islam. The Palestinians are currently violently protesting our right to preserve and rehabilitate these two sites. The entrance plaza and the path leading to the Islamic prayer room at the Tomb of the Patriarchs were fully refurbished. Israel wants to similarly maintain the site used by Christians and Jews who go to the Tomb of the Patriarchs to pray. Apparently freedom of prayer in the PA is only accorded to Moslems.



A 10th Century BCE Wall (over 3,000 years) was uncovered recently in the Ophel, the area below the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount which holds the steps which took pilgrims up to the Temple Mount. http://www.huji.ac.il/cgi-bin/dovrut/dovrut_search_eng.pl?mesge126691593732688760 The wall is believed to be part of King Solomon's Temple. This area has been built over in the past 50 years and is now called Silwan, currently a political hotspot since Mayor Barkat wants to pull down illegal housing, which preclude civic amenities and build a new Arab neighborhood with modern infrastructure. The houses can hardly be considered "ancient rights" since all maps and descriptions of the area from as little as 70 years ago prove that it was uninhabited with the exception of a very few Jewish houses. http://jnul.huji.ac.il/dl/maps/jer/images/jer125/Jer125_b.jpg

Prof Gerald Steinberg thinks outside the box. Here he presents the theory that what necessitated the Dubai hit is the failure of international law to fight Jihadi terror, forcing the Jewish state to act independently.

http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424052748704188104575082963861523260-lMyQjAxMTAwMDIwMzEyNDMyWj.html



Col. Kemp defends Israel again on the BBC. He accuses the media and the written press of anti-Israel, anti-Semitic bias in this excellent interview. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8527563.stm

Martin Kramer http://www.martinkramer.org/ gave us pause for thought at the Herzliya Conference by introducing a new theory on the cause of radicalisation. He pointed out that extremism is the only way for the superfluous sons of enormous families to make their mark. Osama Bin-Laden, rich 17th son is the outstanding example of this theory.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaJXFbH4McM&feature=player_embedded



Israelis abroad are not always sufficiently savvy to deal with the abusive opinions of foreigners who only hear the media cant. The government has just introduced a new site to help them. http://www.masbirim.gov.il/ A very funny but accurate take-off of BBC and Sky News reports on Israel. After the “British” ad, there is one in French of Israeli firework displays portrayed as terrorist attacks, and a Spanish one portraying Israel as so lacking in technology that we have no electricity and have to cook on the barbecue, known as the “mangal” – “primitive but delicious”. My only complaint is that the site is in Hebrew only.



Shalom Kadosh is an outstanding chef of international acclaim and a wonderful man who constantly proves that Kosher food is great! You can find him at the Primavera Restaurant in the Leonardo Plaza in Jerusalem. http://israel21c.org/201002237725/people/so-good-you-wont-believe-its-kosher



Incidentally, before coming to Israel every tourist should check out www.eluna.com to find out the best Kosher restaurants in Israel!!



This week Zvi spent most of his time at the Jewish Agency Board of Governors meetings. He took me to a very moving event at the Knesset; the first time a Jewish Agency BOG event had been held in the Knesset, invited by the Speaker Ruby Rivlin (7th generation Jerusalemite) who welcomed Jewish Agency Chairman Natan Scharansky, whose grandchildren are 1st generation Jerusalemites! The Chagall Hall http://www.knesset.gov.il/tour/eng/tour7.htm is quite exceptional, huge triptych tapestries hang above a hall interspersed with floor and wall mosaics depicting Jewish history, designed and executed by Marc Chagall. Hopefully the future of the Keren Hayesod is safe in the hands of one of the youngest people at the event. Johanna Arbib is the vibrant leader of the worldwide movement and introduces a sparkle and youthful energy which will bring a lot more young people to Israel's side.



I was invited to a wonderful event – the barmitzvah of Jamie Philippson son of Charlotte and Steven Philippson of London. Jamie read his Torah portion and put on his tefillin (phylacteries) at the Kotel and then 30 of us sat around a table at a Jerusalem restaurant and sang Israeli songs and talked of the importance of connection with Israel. Jamie will read his portion back in London this Shabbat but he will never forget the experience of coming of age beside the Kotel. I found myself sitting beside Yossi Swerdlov who lives in Jerusalem and is a member of Chabad Yossi told me of the phenomenal work of Chabad with the forgotten children of Chernobyl. Please watch this video and learn, as I did, of this selfless project. http://vimeo.com/8935846



Yesterday I met with Michael Doppelt from Manhattan. Michael told me a wonderful story of his parents, long time Zionists, who decided they wanted to "do something" so they began a programme for people to come to Haifa and teach English in schools in poorer areas to give children one on one attention. They are such an amazing success that the project was adopted by Partnership 200 since Boston and Haifa are twinned cities. The children are so appreciative and Mayor of Haifa Yona Yahav has personally commended them. The power of one is alive and kicking in Boston with the Doppelt family. http://www.cjp.org/page.aspx?id=98110



Witches, warlocks, policemen, princesses, Ben Tens and a wild variety of fancy dress walk the streets of Jerusalem as children go to school dressed as their favourite hero – Biblical or secular!! It's Purim!! Most schools had parties yesterday despite the fact that Purim is not until the 28th and Shushan Purim on the 1st of March in Jerusalem. The reason for the preemptive parties is the rain which started today and will continue and strengthen over the next few days…… as it does every year. Rain doesn't dampen our spirits it raises them!!! Patisseries are filled with "Oznei Haman" (Haman's Ears), "Hamantaschen" (Hamans pockets). There are epicurean ones, Belgian Chocolate, the traditional Eastern dates and the Western poppy seeds, cheese, apple, halva, honeyed almonds….. you name it exists! Ready made or lovingly wrapped mishloach manot http://www.aish.com/h/pur/m/48968806.html abound and children run to school clutching their little packages for friends. Stores and malls hold children's entertainment and adults throw parties. There is an Israeli expression "Kol siba le mesiba" Any excuse for a party!!



We must appreciate the root of this festival, that we do not bow down to anybody's will, as Mordechai refused to bow down to Haman. The power of one beautiful young woman charmed a King and successfully turned the tide of hatred in Shushan, in Persia, in Iran. Pause for thought in a world where the only loud noises heard against the Haman of today will be the "gregger" at the reading of Megillat Esther.



I wish you Chag Purim Sameach and think of the relevance of Purim to today's world. We simply have to ensure that the fool sitting up on the horse of shame is Ahmedinejad and his ilk - not Mordechai the Jew.



Shabbat Shalom and love from Jerusalem – the most beautiful city in the world.

Sheila

Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim

100225

26th February, 2010.



Shabbat Shalom and Happy Purim dear Friends



Alon Ben-David Israel Channel 10’s military affairs correspondent spoke of the Dubai "Affair" and the subsequent enquiries into forged passports. It seems unlikely to him that 26 people would have participated in the assassination of one man. If one combined the team which followed al-Mabhouh (who had 5 false passports himself), the assassination team and those in charge of the escape and logistics, 26 is too unwieldy a number. Ben-David says that Dubai is a centre for planning global terrorist activity; in short Israel is no the only country interested in what happens in Dubai.

The story takes on a very different perspective if ones identity was stolen. The son of a close friend finds himself bombarded by the press and receiving calls from the Australian Secret Service, fortunately to help him clear his reputation and ability to travel. As a proud Israeli who served in the IDF he finds himself infamous and his name appearing in news-casts around the world.

"Don't Mess with the Mossad" has suddenly become one of the most popular T-shirt slogans of the century!!! Where is the best place to find said T-shirts? In the Arab shouk in Jerusalem of course!!!! http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/world/2010/0224/1224265091657.html



For 3,700 years Rachel's Tomb and the Tomb of the Patriarchs have been sites of religious significance in Judaism, second only to the Temple Mount. 3,700 years is 2,500 years before Islam. The Palestinians are currently violently protesting our right to preserve and rehabilitate these two sites. The entrance plaza and the path leading to the Islamic prayer room at the Tomb of the Patriarchs were fully refurbished. Israel wants to similarly maintain the site used by Christians and Jews who go to the Tomb of the Patriarchs to pray. Apparently freedom of prayer in the PA is only accorded to Moslems.



A 10th Century BCE Wall (over 3,000 years) was uncovered recently in the Ophel, the area below the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount which holds the steps which took pilgrims up to the Temple Mount. http://www.huji.ac.il/cgi-bin/dovrut/dovrut_search_eng.pl?mesge126691593732688760 The wall is believed to be part of King Solomon's Temple. This area has been built over in the past 50 years and is now called Silwan, currently a political hotspot since Mayor Barkat wants to pull down illegal housing, which preclude civic amenities and build a new Arab neighborhood with modern infrastructure. The houses can hardly be considered "ancient rights" since all maps and descriptions of the area from as little as 70 years ago prove that it was uninhabited with the exception of a very few Jewish houses. http://jnul.huji.ac.il/dl/maps/jer/images/jer125/Jer125_b.jpg

Prof Gerald Steinberg thinks outside the box. Here he presents the theory that what necessitated the Dubai hit is the failure of international law to fight Jihadi terror, forcing the Jewish state to act independently.

http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424052748704188104575082963861523260-lMyQjAxMTAwMDIwMzEyNDMyWj.html



Col. Kemp defends Israel again on the BBC. He accuses the media and the written press of anti-Israel, anti-Semitic bias in this excellent interview. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8527563.stm

Martin Kramer http://www.martinkramer.org/ gave us pause for thought at the Herzliya Conference by introducing a new theory on the cause of radicalisation. He pointed out that extremism is the only way for the superfluous sons of enormous families to make their mark. Osama Bin-Laden, rich 17th son is the outstanding example of this theory.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaJXFbH4McM&feature=player_embedded



Israelis abroad are not always sufficiently savvy to deal with the abusive opinions of foreigners who only hear the media cant. The government has just introduced a new site to help them. http://www.masbirim.gov.il/ A very funny but accurate take-off of BBC and Sky News reports on Israel. After the “British” ad, there is one in French of Israeli firework displays portrayed as terrorist attacks, and a Spanish one portraying Israel as so lacking in technology that we have no electricity and have to cook on the barbecue, known as the “mangal” – “primitive but delicious”. My only complaint is that the site is in Hebrew only.



Shalom Kadosh is an outstanding chef of international acclaim and a wonderful man who constantly proves that Kosher food is great! You can find him at the Primavera Restaurant in the Leonardo Plaza in Jerusalem. http://israel21c.org/201002237725/people/so-good-you-wont-believe-its-kosher



Incidentally, before coming to Israel every tourist should check out www.eluna.com to find out the best Kosher restaurants in Israel!!



This week Zvi spent most of his time at the Jewish Agency Board of Governors meetings. He took me to a very moving event at the Knesset; the first time a Jewish Agency BOG event had been held in the Knesset, invited by the Speaker Ruby Rivlin (7th generation Jerusalemite) who welcomed Jewish Agency Chairman Natan Scharansky, whose grandchildren are 1st generation Jerusalemites! The Chagall Hall http://www.knesset.gov.il/tour/eng/tour7.htm is quite exceptional, huge triptych tapestries hang above a hall interspersed with floor and wall mosaics depicting Jewish history, designed and executed by Marc Chagall. Hopefully the future of the Keren Hayesod is safe in the hands of one of the youngest people at the event. Johanna Arbib is the vibrant leader of the worldwide movement and introduces a sparkle and youthful energy which will bring a lot more young people to Israel's side.



I was invited to a wonderful event – the barmitzvah of Jamie Philippson son of Charlotte and Steven Philippson of London. Jamie read his Torah portion and put on his tefillin (phylacteries) at the Kotel and then 30 of us sat around a table at a Jerusalem restaurant and sang Israeli songs and talked of the importance of connection with Israel. Jamie will read his portion back in London this Shabbat but he will never forget the experience of coming of age beside the Kotel. I found myself sitting beside Yossi Swerdlov who lives in Jerusalem and is a member of Chabad Yossi told me of the phenomenal work of Chabad with the forgotten children of Chernobyl. Please watch this video and learn, as I did, of this selfless project. http://vimeo.com/8935846



Yesterday I met with Michael Doppelt from Manhattan. Michael told me a wonderful story of his parents, long time Zionists, who decided they wanted to "do something" so they began a programme for people to come to Haifa and teach English in schools in poorer areas to give children one on one attention. They are such an amazing success that the project was adopted by Partnership 200 since Boston and Haifa are twinned cities. The children are so appreciative and Mayor of Haifa Yona Yahav has personally commended them. The power of one is alive and kicking in Boston with the Doppelt family. http://www.cjp.org/page.aspx?id=98110



Witches, warlocks, policemen, princesses, Ben Tens and a wild variety of fancy dress walk the streets of Jerusalem as children go to school dressed as their favourite hero – Biblical or secular!! It's Purim!! Most schools had parties yesterday despite the fact that Purim is not until the 28th and Shushan Purim on the 1st of March in Jerusalem. The reason for the preemptive parties is the rain which started today and will continue and strengthen over the next few days…… as it does every year. Rain doesn't dampen our spirits it raises them!!! Patisseries are filled with "Oznei Haman" (Haman's Ears), "Hamantaschen" (Hamans pockets). There are epicurean ones, Belgian Chocolate, the traditional Eastern dates and the Western poppy seeds, cheese, apple, halva, honeyed almonds….. you name it exists! Ready made or lovingly wrapped mishloach manot http://www.aish.com/h/pur/m/48968806.html abound and children run to school clutching their little packages for friends. Stores and malls hold children's entertainment and adults throw parties. There is an Israeli expression "Kol siba le mesiba" Any excuse for a party!!



We must appreciate the root of this festival, that we do not bow down to anybody's will, as Mordechai refused to bow down to Haman. The power of one beautiful young woman charmed a King and successfully turned the tide of hatred in Shushan, in Persia, in Iran. Pause for thought in a world where the only loud noises heard against the Haman of today will be the "gregger" at the reading of Megillat Esther.



I wish you Chag Purim Sameach and think of the relevance of Purim to today's world. We simply have to ensure that the fool sitting up on the horse of shame is Ahmedinejad and his ilk - not Mordechai the Jew.



Shabbat Shalom and love from Jerusalem – the most beautiful city in the world.

Sheila

Chag Purim Sameach

090309

Chag Purim Sameach!!!!



A friend went to see "Waltz with Bashir" in the Smadar Cinema in the German Colony of Jerusalem. The audience was visibly sinking lower and lower in their seats and the silence at the end was total. Suddenly a man stood up

"I am an Arab and I don't understand. You sink in your seats in shame yet it is clear from the movie and the facts that YOU have nothing to be ashamed of. Why should you be ashamed when you are the attacked not the attacker"

One of these days we will understand that we are the solution, not the problem.



Corrections on the initial details of the excavator attack on Thursday. The attacker was not an Israeli citizen; he came from Beit Hanina, an entirely Christian village just outside Jerusalem until 10 years ago, now 60% Moslem, but had a yellow ID card giving him a work permit. One of the policemen inside the car was in fact an Israeli Arab from Jabel Mukaber – which proves that one should never jump to conclusions. The police car was thumped with the shovel of the digger twice, and then lifted in the air before being dropped to the ground and shoved, by the digger, across the wide road and the central reservation, into a bus. The bus was not empty, as first reported, but filled with youngsters in Purim dress. Miraculously the two policemen suffered just cuts and bruises and none of the children was hurt – although 3 bystanders were taken to hospital suffering from shock. The drivers family claimed it was a simple traffic accident, however, the CCTV cameras – there to catch anyone jumping the lights- caught the whole thing on video! Even the BBC cannot change that news item to blame us – though they tried!



Tonight is Purim, not yet Shushan Purim, http://www.aish.com/purimmitzvot/purimmitzvotdefault/Shushan_Purim.asp but Purim nonetheless - time to read Migilat Esther – the story of Esther! Chag Purim Sameach! http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Judaism/holiday9.html



Children go to school dressed in a wild array of costumes. These days very few are dressed as Queen Esther and Mordechai – only in the religious schools and even then few of them!!! The favourite costume this year for small boys is a rather incongruous gorilla!!! Maybe they think that there are enough Haman's out there already? The more one thinks about it the more obvious it becomes that Purim is probably the most relevant festival to today's situation. The more one thinks about it the more obvious it becomes that "they" are still trying to annihilate us and the more miraculous it is that we are still here!



The Adloyada is a huge Purim festival in which the children dress up, there are huge parades and everyone has fun. "Adloyada" I didn't understand what the name meant until I separated the words AD LO YEDA – until he will not know. On Purim one is supposed to become tipsy – not drunk – just tipsy, until one cannot tell the difference between evil and good – between Haman and Mordechai. While outwardly a strange tradition it actually emphasises yet again the Jewish determination not to hate, not even those who would see our destruction. So once one is sufficiently tipsy that one cannot tell the difference between Hamas, ooops I mean Haman and Mordechai one can read the Story of Esther without hate. In synagogues around the world as the Story of Esther is read the children are encouraged to make a noise with a "gregger" or noisemaker every time the name Haman is read, which keeps them listening and on their toes for this once a year opportunity to be rowdy!



Tonight Zvi and I will dress for a tango evening in red and black at the big Purim bash to be held at the Biblelands Museum http://www.blmj.org/ in aid of the Israel Cancer Research Fund. It looks like great fun!!!



Yesterday was International Women's Day and tomorrow is Shushan Purim when we celebrate that day so long ago when a brave lady called Esther chose to risk her life and reputation to save her people in the city of Shushan, Persia. Shushan Purim is celebrated only in walled cities, although these days' people believe that it is only celebrated in Jerusalem – Jericho was of course also walled but since it is in the PA there are no Jews there to celebrate anyway – Joshua ruined that idea!! Jerusalem children are thrilled at an extra day's holiday from school and the streets are filled with wondrous Disney characters, fairies, gorillas and pirates as they carefully carry the "Mishloach Manot" literally "sent portions" of gifts of sweets and Haman hat shaped cookies to all their friends. Zvi and I received two very special mishloach manot from Elaine and Marc Oppenheimer and from Teresa Strangeland. Both chose to give a donation rather than adding to our waistlines, the Oppenheimers to Meir Panim http://www.meirpanim.org/ and Teresa to One Family http://www.onefamilyfund.org/Default.aspx?tabid=104 who then give mishloach manot to those who need it far more than we.



After the disgraceful Swedish demonstrations which led the Swedes to fear for the safety of the Israeli players, the Davis Cup match between Israel and Sweden was played before an empty stadium. The incitement of the Mayor of Malmo Ilmar Reepalu and the sheer hatred expressed by the large Moslem population of Sweden's second city almost caused the games to be scratched – but….ISRAEL BEAT SWEDEN 3-2 IN THE DAVIS CUP AND WE'RE THROUGH TO THE QUARTER FINALS!!!! Swedish newspapers stated that the win was well deserved and the behaviour of the Swedes was a disgrace to that country. In September the Russian team will come to Israel to play for a place in the semi-finals, but whatever happens we must be very proud that our team is one of the eight best national teams in the world.



With love

Sheila