100903
September 3rd 2010.
Shabbat Shalom dear friends. Shabbat Shalom as we enter the last period of Atonement before the New Jewish Year. Actually it is a misnomer because it is the seventh month of the year but as always, in Judaism things are not as they seem – but for very good reason! http://judaism.about.com/od/holidays/a/roshhashanah.htm
Everybody's eyes are on Washington as we watched King Abdullah, President Mubarak, Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas come forward to the rostrum with President Obama able to temper our cynicism with another portion of hope. Every one of the four Middle Eastern leaders came to the table aware that despite American pressure this dispute will not be settled in a day, a month nor a year.
PM Netanyahu spoke brilliantly of his willingness to go far in return for a secure and true peace and reminded those present of the heinous killing the day before next to Kiriat Arba, of Yitzhak Ames and his wife Tali, Kochava Even-Haim and Avishai Schindler. He knew that one of the first people on the scene was a ZAKA volunteer paramedic who discovered that his wife Kochava was one of the victims in this cowardly attempt to scupper the talks.
May their souls rest in peace and their families, especially the 7 orphans, know no more sorrow.
What complicates any attempt at a peaceful solution, is that Hamas, quite apart from encouraging children to celebrate in the streets over the "success" of killing Jews, has declared its intent to continue the killings.
All four of the leaders present at the Washington talks are serious – they all face the same enemy, including Mahmoud Abbas; they face Hamas, Hezb-Allah, Islamic Jihad, Al Qaeeda, Moslem Broterhood….. fundamentalists who are bent on changing the face of the M.E. and then Europe and the USA- all supported by Iran, the new and proud owner of a nuclear facility.
Among the elements which must be considered before any agreement can be reached – Before considering the "right of return" of Palestinian refugees to the 4th generation – the rights of 900,000 Jewish refugees from Arab countries who have never been compensated; before recreating history -historic rights, biblical rights, national rights; before talking of human rights - oppression, corruption, ethnic cleansing of Christians in both sectors of the PA and violent terrorism and the abuse of children by taking away their childhood and teaching hatred and war in schools. Deputy Minister Danny Ayalon wrote "As a descendant of a family forced out of Algeria, my father and I – and the millions of other Jews from families who were expelled from Arab countries after 1948 – are entitled to redress. " http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Op-EdContributors/Article.aspx?id=186742
When I explained the elements of the dispute that are not reported in the media and oft ignored by diplomats to a friend, her response was "The PA a kleptocracy ruled by armed thugs, cronyism and corruption running rampant, etc. not to mention HAMAS. It does remind me of someone who's delusional to make airy-fairy claims about "Peace" given the realities." While a large part of me agrees wit every word, we must try, we must move forward and leave our battles behind us; change as Sadat and Begin did, FOR A REAL PEACE.
Israel stands ready to provide 800 trucks a day to Gaza but there is zero demand for any goods by the PA more than 140 trucks maximum.From the slightly surreal to the ridiculous. Former MP George Galloway, not satisfied with being evicted by Egypt for his Gaza escapades, is now planning a "Free Gaza" Convoy and is trying to raise funding from a Florida Mosque. Do you think someone should tell him that Gaza is free of Jews, has been for years now, and that they don't need any food or aid because Israel is ready to provide 800 trucks of aid a day to Gaza but there is zero demand for any goods by the PA more than 140 trucks maximum. (Thanks to Barry Shaw for the statistics)
Finally on the news front to the utterly insane. Israeli Knesset Member Hanin Zou'bi: I Do Not Represent the State of Israel but the Palestinian Struggle In an interview for the website Elaph.com, Israeli Arab Knesset Member Hanin Zou'bi of the Balad party said that she sees herself as a representative not of Israel but rather of the struggle of the Palestinian people, and as such does not recognize Israel as a Jewish state. http://www.thememriblog.org/blog_personal/en/30001.htm Are we crazy? A few rights have been taken from her for lying and taking part in the Flotilla but if she doesn't represent Israel, she is in the Knesset under false pretenses and false oaths of allegiance. THROW HER OUT!!! I don't care how many screams come from the civil rights groups she is a traitor!
On Monday I went to the movies with our dear friends Rosa and Bernardo. We went to see the movie La Rafle – The Round up, about the rounding up of France's Jews during WW2. The presentation is astonishing, the acting excellent and the story excruciatingly true. It makes essential viewing as one realizes how easy it is to dehumanise, separate and then cull those with whom you disagree. On Tuesday I went to Mamilla with Irit Lev to see some of her sculptures which are on display. Mamilla Mall is always busy, always a hive of activity which inevitably involves eating, either sitting in the multitude of kerbside restaurants or eating the delicious ice creams as one walks. In Israel even a visit to the Botanical Gardens involves eating phenomenal salads!! Come to think of it, a visit to the Petrol Station in Nayot is a culinary delight for Zvi's Parliament!!
Last night Zvi came back from Argentina and Uruguay for the Jewish Agency. He visited schools, synagogues, homes, community centers and spoke of Israel, every aspect, every view and answered the inevitable questions. My husband is the best and I do not apologise for bragging!! His knowledge is so broad, is voice so clear, is vocabulary so rich and he makes it all sound so exciting and interesting even when he quotes historical dates and events!!!
Jerusalem is preparing for Shabbat. The roads are emptying, the houses fill with aromas of ethnic cooking representing not only the Ashkenazi epicurean delights but those of so many Arab countries from whence the refugees came – not refugees for long because they did not need to seek asylum they came home. The people of my generation understand what it meant to live in a world without Israel; the fragility of the Jewish situation whereby "The Roundup" could happen any time any where. We have to protect our country, we have to ensure that it really never happens again, because it can and it may if we don't stop the rot now.
For your New Years Tikkun Olam resolution, promise to stand up for yourselves, your beliefs, your rights and your people while always caring what happens to others.
Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem , heart of our world
Sheila
Friday, 3 September 2010
Friday, 27 August 2010
Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem
100827
27th August 2010.
Shabbat Shalom to you all. I hope this letter finds you well. Our New Year is almost upon and the holiest period of the Jewish year. It is a time we contemplate our actions and try to change our mindset to a far less selfish one. One subject is always on the line and tat is "What can I do to change the world's undeserved opinion of Israel" – but Former Prime Minister of Britain and current representative of the Quartet to the Middle East put my concerns into perspective.
"The best answer to the de-legitimisation of Israel lies in the character of Israel itself and in the openness, fair-mindedness and creativity of ordinary Israelis. That character and those people built the State of Israel. They remain it’s guardians. They are why to de-legitimise Israel is not only an affront to Israelis but to all who share the values of a free human spirit."
http://www.quartetrep.org/quartet/news-entry/tony-blair-welcomes-re-start-of-direct-peace-talks-during-herzliya-speech/
Talking of deligitimisation Catherine Ashton, the EU foreign policy chief expressed concern over a Palestinian man's conviction yet didn't utter a sound when the Lockerbie bomber was released early and sent home to a hero's welcome. Where is her sense of balance, morality and justice I ask? http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?id=185950
A new Commander in Chief of the IDF has been chosen, amidst a furore of giant proportions but then this is Israel!! Gabi Ashkenazi will complete his term having reinstated pride within the ranks and efficiency within the organization. The new Commander in Chief is Yoav Galant http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3943296,00.html
The news item said that "The last US troops leave Iraq" then as if in small print added "although 50,000 troops are still stationed in and around Baghdad" As soon as the announcement was made the bombings and riots and killings began. One cannot impose democracy on a country that is torn apart by religious strife. One cannot impose democracy – period. Democracy is earned and democracy is gained over many years of education and limited privilege. Imposed democracy is inevitable anarchy.
I now write in praise of the BBC! Occasionally the formerly salient and even handed approach for which they were once famous raises its head. Panorama, a highly regarded BBC news magazine, produced an investigative programme into the Gaza Flotilla and came up with some very interesting conclusions. They found Israel correct in her handling of the incident. The two part programme which drew strong fire from the left and the Moslems is well worth watching.
You Tube - Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXrzF0IOQYE
You Tube - Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nfo91FQVr7M&feature=related
Israel won medals in the Youth Olympics in Singapore including that of Gil Haimovitch who received is medal after the Iranian athlete withdrew rather than listen to the infidel anthem "Hatikva" Their loss our pride!!
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/news.aspx/139133
Finally, at last and incredibly the Jerusalem Light Railway made its first journey. Don't get too excited – you won't be riding it for a while yet but it is a tiny beam of light at the end of a very long tunnel of traffic chaos, shops without entrances due to road works and the messiest town centre in the Middle East – however it is on its way!!! When it begins a regular service it will hopefully change the centre of town and return it to its former vivacity and hustle and bustle. The mushrooming shopping malls and the terrorist bombs of the Intifada caused the main streets – other than the ever bustling Ben Yehuda, to fall into disrepair but the light railway should change all that. http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=185753
The last two weeks have been fun – apart from the fact that my lovely husband as been travelling, wowing audiences in Argentina and Uruguay! Friends Yaffa and Martin Glass were here and before Zvi left we "did" Mahane Yehuda Market Festival of music and dance…music of every conceivable genre! Dear childhood friend Jenny and Brian Bell came to Jerusalem to celebrate Brian's birthday and were thrilled with the Israel Museum and the David Citadels sound and light show and the hustle and bustle of the Mamilla mall. I was trilled ot see my Mum's friend Tema Gaba (her daughter Sue is my friend too) who talked of my late mother and told me stories about their friendship when they were both young marrieds.
The Mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat has an amazing mother who decided to initiate a "Third Age" (retirees) music class at the Jerusalem Music Centre. The Centre is becoming a real meeting place thanks also to the Hariton Recording Studios (thanks to Paul and Flory). The end of term concert was outstanding with glorious flourishes of music with wonderful explanations by the teacher. As a finale Mrs Barkat then showed us all what can be done, irrespective of age by playing Debussy's Claire de Lune after just four years of study. The Music Centre is in the Gehenom Valley, under Mount Zion and opposite the Cinematheque and Mishkenot Sha'ananim http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mishkenot_Sha'ananim .
Last night I had the ultimate honour of entertaining my grand-daughter Talia. I picked her up and we came home to rest a little, bathe and prepare ourselves for a night on the town. We chose to eat out at a lovely restaurant in the every bustling German Colony. I loved the way the waiters treated her with great respect, advising her on the tastiest and most appropriate menu for a 4 year old. Yes in Israel a 4 year old comes out with her family – the restaurant was filled with happy children and no-one gave a stern look; "Children should be seen and not heard" is anathema in Israel! We had so much fun and as I took her back home this morning she reminded me how lucky we are to live in "Yerushalyim" and how privileged I am that my grandchildren call me Safta.
Have a beautiful Shabbat and remember that Tikkun Olam is our reason for being here. To create a better world for our children and to pray that our children will take better care of the world than we did. Written, sung and arranged by David d'Or the song "Tshmor al ha olam yeled" Guard our world child" says it all http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1vIFyH4U_Y&feature=related And the lyrics translated http://www.hebrewsongs.com/?song=shmoralhaolamyeled
Last but far from least – my wonderful friend Arlene has undergone surgery and I want you all to pray for her speedy recovery because I want her back here in Jerusalem with me for a great big hug and natter!!!
With all my love from a glorious pre-Shabbat Jerusalem
Sheila
27th August 2010.
Shabbat Shalom to you all. I hope this letter finds you well. Our New Year is almost upon and the holiest period of the Jewish year. It is a time we contemplate our actions and try to change our mindset to a far less selfish one. One subject is always on the line and tat is "What can I do to change the world's undeserved opinion of Israel" – but Former Prime Minister of Britain and current representative of the Quartet to the Middle East put my concerns into perspective.
"The best answer to the de-legitimisation of Israel lies in the character of Israel itself and in the openness, fair-mindedness and creativity of ordinary Israelis. That character and those people built the State of Israel. They remain it’s guardians. They are why to de-legitimise Israel is not only an affront to Israelis but to all who share the values of a free human spirit."
http://www.quartetrep.org/quartet/news-entry/tony-blair-welcomes-re-start-of-direct-peace-talks-during-herzliya-speech/
Talking of deligitimisation Catherine Ashton, the EU foreign policy chief expressed concern over a Palestinian man's conviction yet didn't utter a sound when the Lockerbie bomber was released early and sent home to a hero's welcome. Where is her sense of balance, morality and justice I ask? http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?id=185950
A new Commander in Chief of the IDF has been chosen, amidst a furore of giant proportions but then this is Israel!! Gabi Ashkenazi will complete his term having reinstated pride within the ranks and efficiency within the organization. The new Commander in Chief is Yoav Galant http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3943296,00.html
The news item said that "The last US troops leave Iraq" then as if in small print added "although 50,000 troops are still stationed in and around Baghdad" As soon as the announcement was made the bombings and riots and killings began. One cannot impose democracy on a country that is torn apart by religious strife. One cannot impose democracy – period. Democracy is earned and democracy is gained over many years of education and limited privilege. Imposed democracy is inevitable anarchy.
I now write in praise of the BBC! Occasionally the formerly salient and even handed approach for which they were once famous raises its head. Panorama, a highly regarded BBC news magazine, produced an investigative programme into the Gaza Flotilla and came up with some very interesting conclusions. They found Israel correct in her handling of the incident. The two part programme which drew strong fire from the left and the Moslems is well worth watching.
You Tube - Part 1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXrzF0IOQYE
You Tube - Part 2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nfo91FQVr7M&feature=related
Israel won medals in the Youth Olympics in Singapore including that of Gil Haimovitch who received is medal after the Iranian athlete withdrew rather than listen to the infidel anthem "Hatikva" Their loss our pride!!
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/news.aspx/139133
Finally, at last and incredibly the Jerusalem Light Railway made its first journey. Don't get too excited – you won't be riding it for a while yet but it is a tiny beam of light at the end of a very long tunnel of traffic chaos, shops without entrances due to road works and the messiest town centre in the Middle East – however it is on its way!!! When it begins a regular service it will hopefully change the centre of town and return it to its former vivacity and hustle and bustle. The mushrooming shopping malls and the terrorist bombs of the Intifada caused the main streets – other than the ever bustling Ben Yehuda, to fall into disrepair but the light railway should change all that. http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=185753
The last two weeks have been fun – apart from the fact that my lovely husband as been travelling, wowing audiences in Argentina and Uruguay! Friends Yaffa and Martin Glass were here and before Zvi left we "did" Mahane Yehuda Market Festival of music and dance…music of every conceivable genre! Dear childhood friend Jenny and Brian Bell came to Jerusalem to celebrate Brian's birthday and were thrilled with the Israel Museum and the David Citadels sound and light show and the hustle and bustle of the Mamilla mall. I was trilled ot see my Mum's friend Tema Gaba (her daughter Sue is my friend too) who talked of my late mother and told me stories about their friendship when they were both young marrieds.
The Mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat has an amazing mother who decided to initiate a "Third Age" (retirees) music class at the Jerusalem Music Centre. The Centre is becoming a real meeting place thanks also to the Hariton Recording Studios (thanks to Paul and Flory). The end of term concert was outstanding with glorious flourishes of music with wonderful explanations by the teacher. As a finale Mrs Barkat then showed us all what can be done, irrespective of age by playing Debussy's Claire de Lune after just four years of study. The Music Centre is in the Gehenom Valley, under Mount Zion and opposite the Cinematheque and Mishkenot Sha'ananim http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mishkenot_Sha'ananim .
Last night I had the ultimate honour of entertaining my grand-daughter Talia. I picked her up and we came home to rest a little, bathe and prepare ourselves for a night on the town. We chose to eat out at a lovely restaurant in the every bustling German Colony. I loved the way the waiters treated her with great respect, advising her on the tastiest and most appropriate menu for a 4 year old. Yes in Israel a 4 year old comes out with her family – the restaurant was filled with happy children and no-one gave a stern look; "Children should be seen and not heard" is anathema in Israel! We had so much fun and as I took her back home this morning she reminded me how lucky we are to live in "Yerushalyim" and how privileged I am that my grandchildren call me Safta.
Have a beautiful Shabbat and remember that Tikkun Olam is our reason for being here. To create a better world for our children and to pray that our children will take better care of the world than we did. Written, sung and arranged by David d'Or the song "Tshmor al ha olam yeled" Guard our world child" says it all http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1vIFyH4U_Y&feature=related And the lyrics translated http://www.hebrewsongs.com/?song=shmoralhaolamyeled
Last but far from least – my wonderful friend Arlene has undergone surgery and I want you all to pray for her speedy recovery because I want her back here in Jerusalem with me for a great big hug and natter!!!
With all my love from a glorious pre-Shabbat Jerusalem
Sheila
Friday, 13 August 2010
Shabbat Shalom letter
100813
Friday 13th of August 2010.
Shabbat Shalom to you all and an extra happy Friday 13th to our smashing friend John Gandel who is celebrating his 75th birthday. John is ever young thanks his wife Pauline….. who fills his life with love and humour.
Did you know that in Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, indeed almost all the Arab States, Palestinians are not recognized as citizens and cannot obtain citizenship? In this article Zeina Karam tells us of a highly qualified young man from a "Refugee Camp" in Lebanon; 63 years after they arrived the Palestinians still do not have any rights. It is worth remembering that Israel absorbed 900,000 refugees from Arab countries without any outside help yet the Arab countries chose to keep their refugees without rights or hope. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/12/AR2010081200453.html
The British National Union of Journalists decided to petition the Israeli Government to release Vaanunu, the Israeli spy who gave the world Israeli nuclear defence secrets, from his incarceration. There are a number of inanities revealed in their petition.
1. He is not incarcerated!
2. He was released from prison on the sole condition that he doesn't talk to the press – and he did.
3. The slimeball insists he is not Israeli, no longer a Jew, speaks only awful broken English and has been "adopted" by the journalist who initially pled his case.
4. Several of tose whose names appear as signatories of the petition are dead!!!
5. Why in heavens name would the NUJ petition for his release when he is not in prison yet do not see fit to petition for Gilad Schalit's release?
Turkey used chemical weapons on the Kurds. Erdogan, that great supporter of Palestinian human rights, is slaughtering Kurds in one of the worst cases of genocide seen of late, according to press reports, 20,000 Kurds were killed over the last five years by gassing. Erdogan is slowly taking Turkey back to the pre-Attaturk days when Turks slaughtered one and half million Armenians. EAT YOUR WORDS DAVID CAMERON http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?ID=184612
Rockets fall on Southern Israel most days and the NUJ, and most media and governments remain silent. The truth is that they rarely fall on their desired targets but they fall anyway. Last week they succeeded in destroying a paediatric rehabilitation centre….. such heroes our Hamas neighbours; they not only launch rockets without care as to the target they cover their faces like the craven cowards they are.
Yaron London is a veteran journalist, left wing but very pro-Israel. Two nights ago he told us of his visit to the Schalit tent near the Prime Ministers home. He took his grandchildren so that they would understand the importance of supporting the Schalit family. As he returned home and watched the news on TV he saw Arab MK Hanin Zoabi who lied about her recorded involvement in the premeditated violence aboard the Mavi Marmara http://www.virtualjerusalem.com/news.php?Itemid=514 , laughing happily at a social function after seeing the vacant expression of Aviva Schalit, a broken woman whose son is still in captivity, without the most basic of human rights. "I understood that something is terribly wrong with our world if such inconsistencies can occur".
Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi has served with honour. When PM Netanyahu was asked about his part in the Flotilla decisions he said "I wasn't in the country" When Ehud Barak was asked he said "I relied on the Army" When Gabi Ashkenazi was asked he said "Obviously we made some mistakes". Only by recognizing mistakes can you prevent them recurring. Gabi Ashkenazi will leave his position in 6 months, after serving his full 4 year term and the plots are already afoot to choose his successor. General Yoav Galant is Baraks favourite and a letter outlining a full smear campaign on the other candidates has been revealed by Channel 2 television and the heads are flying! My personal favourite is Benny Gantz – who is not involved in the mud slinging except as an intended target!
Jerusalem is one great big party!!!! From the huge international art and craft fair in the Sultans Pool with nightly performances by great Israeli artistes like Shlomi Shabbat and Achinoam Nini (Noa), to the puppet theatre in the park and every afternoon there is a children's story telling corner in another park. Thursday nights see the Mamilla Mall filled to capacity with street artists and "Shira b'Tsibur" Folk singing. The circus came to town (human artistes only) and street parties abound – each telling the history of the neigbourhood. The Citadel (David's Tower) has a fantastic "Son et Lumiere" (sound and light) show each night and every street is popping! On Monday we went with Rosa and Bernardo to the Shouk, not to buy but to have fun! Each alleyway and square had music of a different ethnicities and the crowd danced everything from line dancing to debka, from hora to hip-hop! On Tuesday we met Sam and Debby Bettsak who are here for a family bar-mitzva. Sam wanted to go to the craft fair but this presented problems on several fronts. The police had cordoned off the entire area so I couldn't get near their hotel and then when I did we found that most of Israel had reached the ticket office before us!!! The Bettsaks family from London were with them and we all convinced him to cross the road to the Mamilla Mall instead where we found all the restaurants filled to capacity until we reached to top floor and sat down to a delightful meal with Jerusalem panorama before us. A gentle breeze broke through the heat as we watched the masses still arriving at the Sultans Pool at 10:30 at night. Since it was Tuesday the Mamilla Mall was only packed instead of heaving and as we wearily wended our way home at about midnight the place was still alive as entire families enjoyed the evenings balmy air. We don't leave the children at home in Israel – we enjoy them!!!
Zvi is at his Parliament – I think I can hear the political arguments from here – 5 kilometres away!! There are Motti, Itzik and Gad on the far left, Ilan on the right and Zvi who is always willing to play Devil's Advocate just for amusement! The ever patient (and beautiful) Shira serves them their salads and breakfasts, their "Café Hafuch" and their pastries with such good humour, she is my heroine because I would have lost my temper with their raucous arguments years ago!!! When he gets home we will sit out on the veranda for a few minutes, shoot the breeze and watch Jerusalem close down. Each week I thank G-d anew for giving the world a day of rest, we need it so much. As I light the Shabbat candles tonight I will look out of my window upon the pinky gold of Jerusalem before sunset and recognize that I am the luckiest lady in the world!
I wish you Shabbat Shalom and hope you will remember that texting and emails are just useful tools which can never replace communication.
With much love
Sheila
Friday 13th of August 2010.
Shabbat Shalom to you all and an extra happy Friday 13th to our smashing friend John Gandel who is celebrating his 75th birthday. John is ever young thanks his wife Pauline….. who fills his life with love and humour.
Did you know that in Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, indeed almost all the Arab States, Palestinians are not recognized as citizens and cannot obtain citizenship? In this article Zeina Karam tells us of a highly qualified young man from a "Refugee Camp" in Lebanon; 63 years after they arrived the Palestinians still do not have any rights. It is worth remembering that Israel absorbed 900,000 refugees from Arab countries without any outside help yet the Arab countries chose to keep their refugees without rights or hope. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/12/AR2010081200453.html
The British National Union of Journalists decided to petition the Israeli Government to release Vaanunu, the Israeli spy who gave the world Israeli nuclear defence secrets, from his incarceration. There are a number of inanities revealed in their petition.
1. He is not incarcerated!
2. He was released from prison on the sole condition that he doesn't talk to the press – and he did.
3. The slimeball insists he is not Israeli, no longer a Jew, speaks only awful broken English and has been "adopted" by the journalist who initially pled his case.
4. Several of tose whose names appear as signatories of the petition are dead!!!
5. Why in heavens name would the NUJ petition for his release when he is not in prison yet do not see fit to petition for Gilad Schalit's release?
Turkey used chemical weapons on the Kurds. Erdogan, that great supporter of Palestinian human rights, is slaughtering Kurds in one of the worst cases of genocide seen of late, according to press reports, 20,000 Kurds were killed over the last five years by gassing. Erdogan is slowly taking Turkey back to the pre-Attaturk days when Turks slaughtered one and half million Armenians. EAT YOUR WORDS DAVID CAMERON http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?ID=184612
Rockets fall on Southern Israel most days and the NUJ, and most media and governments remain silent. The truth is that they rarely fall on their desired targets but they fall anyway. Last week they succeeded in destroying a paediatric rehabilitation centre….. such heroes our Hamas neighbours; they not only launch rockets without care as to the target they cover their faces like the craven cowards they are.
Yaron London is a veteran journalist, left wing but very pro-Israel. Two nights ago he told us of his visit to the Schalit tent near the Prime Ministers home. He took his grandchildren so that they would understand the importance of supporting the Schalit family. As he returned home and watched the news on TV he saw Arab MK Hanin Zoabi who lied about her recorded involvement in the premeditated violence aboard the Mavi Marmara http://www.virtualjerusalem.com/news.php?Itemid=514 , laughing happily at a social function after seeing the vacant expression of Aviva Schalit, a broken woman whose son is still in captivity, without the most basic of human rights. "I understood that something is terribly wrong with our world if such inconsistencies can occur".
Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi has served with honour. When PM Netanyahu was asked about his part in the Flotilla decisions he said "I wasn't in the country" When Ehud Barak was asked he said "I relied on the Army" When Gabi Ashkenazi was asked he said "Obviously we made some mistakes". Only by recognizing mistakes can you prevent them recurring. Gabi Ashkenazi will leave his position in 6 months, after serving his full 4 year term and the plots are already afoot to choose his successor. General Yoav Galant is Baraks favourite and a letter outlining a full smear campaign on the other candidates has been revealed by Channel 2 television and the heads are flying! My personal favourite is Benny Gantz – who is not involved in the mud slinging except as an intended target!
Jerusalem is one great big party!!!! From the huge international art and craft fair in the Sultans Pool with nightly performances by great Israeli artistes like Shlomi Shabbat and Achinoam Nini (Noa), to the puppet theatre in the park and every afternoon there is a children's story telling corner in another park. Thursday nights see the Mamilla Mall filled to capacity with street artists and "Shira b'Tsibur" Folk singing. The circus came to town (human artistes only) and street parties abound – each telling the history of the neigbourhood. The Citadel (David's Tower) has a fantastic "Son et Lumiere" (sound and light) show each night and every street is popping! On Monday we went with Rosa and Bernardo to the Shouk, not to buy but to have fun! Each alleyway and square had music of a different ethnicities and the crowd danced everything from line dancing to debka, from hora to hip-hop! On Tuesday we met Sam and Debby Bettsak who are here for a family bar-mitzva. Sam wanted to go to the craft fair but this presented problems on several fronts. The police had cordoned off the entire area so I couldn't get near their hotel and then when I did we found that most of Israel had reached the ticket office before us!!! The Bettsaks family from London were with them and we all convinced him to cross the road to the Mamilla Mall instead where we found all the restaurants filled to capacity until we reached to top floor and sat down to a delightful meal with Jerusalem panorama before us. A gentle breeze broke through the heat as we watched the masses still arriving at the Sultans Pool at 10:30 at night. Since it was Tuesday the Mamilla Mall was only packed instead of heaving and as we wearily wended our way home at about midnight the place was still alive as entire families enjoyed the evenings balmy air. We don't leave the children at home in Israel – we enjoy them!!!
Zvi is at his Parliament – I think I can hear the political arguments from here – 5 kilometres away!! There are Motti, Itzik and Gad on the far left, Ilan on the right and Zvi who is always willing to play Devil's Advocate just for amusement! The ever patient (and beautiful) Shira serves them their salads and breakfasts, their "Café Hafuch" and their pastries with such good humour, she is my heroine because I would have lost my temper with their raucous arguments years ago!!! When he gets home we will sit out on the veranda for a few minutes, shoot the breeze and watch Jerusalem close down. Each week I thank G-d anew for giving the world a day of rest, we need it so much. As I light the Shabbat candles tonight I will look out of my window upon the pinky gold of Jerusalem before sunset and recognize that I am the luckiest lady in the world!
I wish you Shabbat Shalom and hope you will remember that texting and emails are just useful tools which can never replace communication.
With much love
Sheila
Friday, 6 August 2010
Shabbat Shalom letter
100806
8th August 2010.
Shabbat Shalom
Am I the only person who thinks the world has gone crazy? It strikes me that lemmings are sane in comparison to the political and diplomatic cliff jumping which has been going on lately! Here are some examples…..
1. Israel asks UNIFIL for permission to repair border fence since UNIFIL cannot do so because they have no mandate to enter Israel or no-man's-land. The Lebanese Army picks upon the moment that Israel repairs the fence, from inside Israeli territory, to bring in its snipers to shoot two officers overseeing the workers killing one while seriously injuring the other. It was not a chance incident since the Lebanese army had brought along its media cameramen to film the scene! The foreign media blamed Israel for daring to shoot back and the UNIFIL people begged "both sides" to calm down. Lt Col Dov Harari was a real leader who at 45 could have asked for easier reserve duty but was deeply attached to his unit. Dov Harari is survived by his wife and four children. May his soul rest in peace as we all give thanks to him and his ilk for protecting us from the evil to our north. PM Netanyahu clearly asked the world to condemn Lebanese action. The most probable motive behind the incident was to detract media attention from the Hariri investigation. In the meantime Grad rockets fell on Ashkelon without a word of dismay or censure from tat same media. If you are an advertiser demand change or withdraw your advertising; if you own shares in a company which advertises do the same!
2. The first stage of approval for the Islamic Centre at the site of Ground Zero has been passed by the commission. If Americans - Jew and Christian, white, black and brown, do not get on their soap boxes and scream out of the insanity of their representatives - particularly New York Mayor Bloomberg - then you deserve all you get. Ground Zero is a blessed place where the ashes of those who died are interred and to allow the building of a Mosque is not only diabolical bad taste, it allows spiritual control to escape your hands.
3. President Peres is out of favour with the British leadership for calling them innately anti-Israel! Thank you Mr President – thank you for telling the Foreign Office and the BBC, both institutional, both Arabist, exactly what we all think! To prove his point look who has just been appointed to high position in the Foreign Office….. Simon Fraser who was sacked from his former position because of is pro-Palestinian stance. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/7920336/New-Foreign-Office-chief-Simon-Fraser-left-job-over-love-affair-with-PLO-official.html
4. British PM David Cameron stood up in Turkey denouncing Israel and demanded that the EEC accept Turkey into their club.
Shout and yell - these are YOUR representatives not someone on high who is allowed to do his own thing! Write letters – DO NOT TELL ME YOU WROTE ONCE AND DIDN'T GET A REPLY….WRITE A HUNDRED LETTERS IF YOU MUST! Make them polite or they will go in the bin but make them proud and determined and express your demands to bring forth a result.
5. Medicins sans Frontieres the French based organisation of doctors who go to war zones and famine to save lives, decided to shun the Israeli doctors who came all the way to Congo to save the lives of burn victims...... humanitarian to all but Jews? MSF has an apparent problem with one democratic Jewish State but is quite at ease with the existence and actions of 56 dysfunctional & corrupt Islamic states. As one critic has put it well, "These are Doctors With Borders - but without scruples." http://theredhunter.com/2009/04/doctors_without_borders_running_cover_for_terrorists.php
6. An attempt on the life of Ahmedinejad? Highly unlikely much more likely an attempt to save himself from his disfavour among his people.
7. Israeli Arabs, Members of Knesset travelled to the UK and reiterated their claim, very loudly, that Israel an Apartheid State. Are they insensitive or ignorant as to what really happened during South Africa's cruel Apartheid era? If Israel were really racist would they be Members of Knesset? Paradox, oxymoron or darned chutzpah? http://www.thejc.com/node/36323
8. Next time anyone talks to you about the Palestinian refugees show them this http://amanpour.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/06/the-last-jews-of-baghdad/ and remember the nearly 900,000 Jewish refugees from Arab lands who are not recognized by any international organisations.
Brenda Kattan is one of my very favourite people. An exceptional spokesperson for Israel, her nobility of person and speech have survived Durban and many difficult forums. Brenda is an advocate of building ourselves an Israeli or better still, a Jewish Al Jazeera to put forward our point of view and reach a huge audience. http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Op-EdContributors/Article.aspx?id=183552 Brenda – love the idea but whither the money if people are apathetic about saving themselves? Maybe we should call it El haEmet?
Nick Cohen (non-Jewish, British, Left, Writer) in a brilliant article called Homage to Pilar Rahola trying to understand the idiocy and banality of leftist rationale on Israel and the Jews. http://standpointmag.co.uk/node/3117
Standwithus, gosh I can't praise them enough. Did you read about the amazing Humanitarian Medical Conference they held in July? It was organized by a group of Standwithus Fellows studying at Tel Aviv University. See the video and be very proud of our young people. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSiI_ZgzuAE
This week has been so hot that we only go to places that have AC!! The Israel Museum has reopened its doors after 4 years of total remodelling. It is now entirely indoors precluding that tiresome if beautiful walk out in the searing heat. The halls are enormous and the exhibits astonishing – from the Roman headstone for a 14 year old spinster (!) to the painted wooden Sukkah; from Herod's central heating pipes to the all of the 3 monotheistic religions; from the ancient synagogue of Soussia (called an illegal Jewish settlement by the UN and USA) to my favourite exhibit inside the Judaica halls – the Synagogues brought to the museum piece by piece and rebuilt lovingly. From Suriname, where Jews who fled Holland settled; Germany, Italy where Jews taken as slaves by Rome settled, Cochin where Jews who fled Russia settled – so much history. My favourite was from near Bamburg in Germany. Made of untreated simple planks of wood, each plank was lovingly painted in a very naïve pattern of flowers sowing the love put into this house of prayer. I strongly advise a visit to this museum – not just its Judaica but its outstanding modern and traditional art too. http://www.english.imjnet.org.il/htmls/home.aspx
Nattie and Merav are about to come to see us so Zvi is rushing from his Parliament at Angel's Bakery in the Petrol Station and I must bid you farewell to greet our lovely friends.
Dear Friends, Shabbat Shalom and please remember
ZIONISM IS NOT A DIRTY WORD; ZIONISM IS JEWISH PRIDE. We are one tiny weeny stretch of land in a huge mass of 56 Moslem States. A tiny country of enormous achievements.
With much love from Jerusalem
Sheila
8th August 2010.
Shabbat Shalom
Am I the only person who thinks the world has gone crazy? It strikes me that lemmings are sane in comparison to the political and diplomatic cliff jumping which has been going on lately! Here are some examples…..
1. Israel asks UNIFIL for permission to repair border fence since UNIFIL cannot do so because they have no mandate to enter Israel or no-man's-land. The Lebanese Army picks upon the moment that Israel repairs the fence, from inside Israeli territory, to bring in its snipers to shoot two officers overseeing the workers killing one while seriously injuring the other. It was not a chance incident since the Lebanese army had brought along its media cameramen to film the scene! The foreign media blamed Israel for daring to shoot back and the UNIFIL people begged "both sides" to calm down. Lt Col Dov Harari was a real leader who at 45 could have asked for easier reserve duty but was deeply attached to his unit. Dov Harari is survived by his wife and four children. May his soul rest in peace as we all give thanks to him and his ilk for protecting us from the evil to our north. PM Netanyahu clearly asked the world to condemn Lebanese action. The most probable motive behind the incident was to detract media attention from the Hariri investigation. In the meantime Grad rockets fell on Ashkelon without a word of dismay or censure from tat same media. If you are an advertiser demand change or withdraw your advertising; if you own shares in a company which advertises do the same!
2. The first stage of approval for the Islamic Centre at the site of Ground Zero has been passed by the commission. If Americans - Jew and Christian, white, black and brown, do not get on their soap boxes and scream out of the insanity of their representatives - particularly New York Mayor Bloomberg - then you deserve all you get. Ground Zero is a blessed place where the ashes of those who died are interred and to allow the building of a Mosque is not only diabolical bad taste, it allows spiritual control to escape your hands.
3. President Peres is out of favour with the British leadership for calling them innately anti-Israel! Thank you Mr President – thank you for telling the Foreign Office and the BBC, both institutional, both Arabist, exactly what we all think! To prove his point look who has just been appointed to high position in the Foreign Office….. Simon Fraser who was sacked from his former position because of is pro-Palestinian stance. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/7920336/New-Foreign-Office-chief-Simon-Fraser-left-job-over-love-affair-with-PLO-official.html
4. British PM David Cameron stood up in Turkey denouncing Israel and demanded that the EEC accept Turkey into their club.
Shout and yell - these are YOUR representatives not someone on high who is allowed to do his own thing! Write letters – DO NOT TELL ME YOU WROTE ONCE AND DIDN'T GET A REPLY….WRITE A HUNDRED LETTERS IF YOU MUST! Make them polite or they will go in the bin but make them proud and determined and express your demands to bring forth a result.
5. Medicins sans Frontieres the French based organisation of doctors who go to war zones and famine to save lives, decided to shun the Israeli doctors who came all the way to Congo to save the lives of burn victims...... humanitarian to all but Jews? MSF has an apparent problem with one democratic Jewish State but is quite at ease with the existence and actions of 56 dysfunctional & corrupt Islamic states. As one critic has put it well, "These are Doctors With Borders - but without scruples." http://theredhunter.com/2009/04/doctors_without_borders_running_cover_for_terrorists.php
6. An attempt on the life of Ahmedinejad? Highly unlikely much more likely an attempt to save himself from his disfavour among his people.
7. Israeli Arabs, Members of Knesset travelled to the UK and reiterated their claim, very loudly, that Israel an Apartheid State. Are they insensitive or ignorant as to what really happened during South Africa's cruel Apartheid era? If Israel were really racist would they be Members of Knesset? Paradox, oxymoron or darned chutzpah? http://www.thejc.com/node/36323
8. Next time anyone talks to you about the Palestinian refugees show them this http://amanpour.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/06/the-last-jews-of-baghdad/ and remember the nearly 900,000 Jewish refugees from Arab lands who are not recognized by any international organisations.
Brenda Kattan is one of my very favourite people. An exceptional spokesperson for Israel, her nobility of person and speech have survived Durban and many difficult forums. Brenda is an advocate of building ourselves an Israeli or better still, a Jewish Al Jazeera to put forward our point of view and reach a huge audience. http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Op-EdContributors/Article.aspx?id=183552 Brenda – love the idea but whither the money if people are apathetic about saving themselves? Maybe we should call it El haEmet?
Nick Cohen (non-Jewish, British, Left, Writer) in a brilliant article called Homage to Pilar Rahola trying to understand the idiocy and banality of leftist rationale on Israel and the Jews. http://standpointmag.co.uk/node/3117
Standwithus, gosh I can't praise them enough. Did you read about the amazing Humanitarian Medical Conference they held in July? It was organized by a group of Standwithus Fellows studying at Tel Aviv University. See the video and be very proud of our young people. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSiI_ZgzuAE
This week has been so hot that we only go to places that have AC!! The Israel Museum has reopened its doors after 4 years of total remodelling. It is now entirely indoors precluding that tiresome if beautiful walk out in the searing heat. The halls are enormous and the exhibits astonishing – from the Roman headstone for a 14 year old spinster (!) to the painted wooden Sukkah; from Herod's central heating pipes to the all of the 3 monotheistic religions; from the ancient synagogue of Soussia (called an illegal Jewish settlement by the UN and USA) to my favourite exhibit inside the Judaica halls – the Synagogues brought to the museum piece by piece and rebuilt lovingly. From Suriname, where Jews who fled Holland settled; Germany, Italy where Jews taken as slaves by Rome settled, Cochin where Jews who fled Russia settled – so much history. My favourite was from near Bamburg in Germany. Made of untreated simple planks of wood, each plank was lovingly painted in a very naïve pattern of flowers sowing the love put into this house of prayer. I strongly advise a visit to this museum – not just its Judaica but its outstanding modern and traditional art too. http://www.english.imjnet.org.il/htmls/home.aspx
Nattie and Merav are about to come to see us so Zvi is rushing from his Parliament at Angel's Bakery in the Petrol Station and I must bid you farewell to greet our lovely friends.
Dear Friends, Shabbat Shalom and please remember
ZIONISM IS NOT A DIRTY WORD; ZIONISM IS JEWISH PRIDE. We are one tiny weeny stretch of land in a huge mass of 56 Moslem States. A tiny country of enormous achievements.
With much love from Jerusalem
Sheila
Friday, 30 July 2010
Shabbat Shalom letter
100730
Friday 30th July, 2010.
Shabbat Shalom
Israel suffered a terrible tragedy this week when an IDF helicopter carrying six young officers went down while on a Romanian/Israeli military exercise. Those who lost their lives are Lt. Col (Res.) Avner Goldman (48); Lt. Col. Daniel Shipenbauer (43); Maj. Yahel Keshet (33); Maj. Lior Shai (28); Lt. Nir Lakrif (25) and Sergeant 1st Class Oren Cohen (24). May their souls rest in peace and their families know no more sorrow.
Oliver Stone, whose horrendously violent and sick movies are no longer in vogue resorted to an equally violent response for his inadequacies. So Hitler was right eh? Let's see if Hollywood has the ****s to shun him as they didn't with Mel Gibson's "in vino veritas" outburst. By the way, if it is true that Americas Jews run the media and politics why is their press and the State Department so anti-Israel? At least Haim Saban, unlike the ADL, decided that Stone is persona non grata and is prepared to cancel his option http://www.jpost.com/ArtsAndCulture/Entertainment/Article.aspx?id=182995
Khaled Abu Toameh wrote two outstanding articles this week. Palestinian Victim's No-one Cares About http://www.nationalpost.com/todays-paper/Palestinian+victims+talks+about/3316751/story.html which addresses the maltreatment of Palestinians in just about every other Arab country and Palestinians in Gaza invest $20m. in new resorts concerning local tourism and investment in Gaza and the West Bank in resorts and lunar parks– British PM Cameron should read it before currying favour with the Turks! http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=182943
Ishmael Khaldi is a Moslem diplomat; Ishmael Khaldi is an Israeli diplomat, the former Deputy Consul in San Francisco and senior advisor to Minister Avigdor Lieberman; a fact which crushes media truisms; that Avigdor Lieberman in particular and Israel in general are anti-Arab. In the words of Ishmael Khaldi "If Israel were an Apartheid state I would not have been appointed" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishmael_Khaldi
A Major Humanitarian Medical Conference has been held in Israel under the auspices of Stan With Us. Medical students, medical aid workers and doctors from all over the world attended. Kol ha Kavod Stand With Us http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ejiy6eCgII
Who is a Jew is once again an urgent topic. MK David Rothem tried to devolutionise the conversion process but his Knesset Bill was shot down by both Ultra-Orthodox and Reform leaders and the process remains in limbo. Many Russian immigrants are awaiting conversion and an answer must be found to their dilemma. Please read Rabbi Jeremy Rosens honest approach to the impasse. http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.com
Antithisis – the Zionist Rapper- makes Aliya. Samuel Green, the British Zionist rap artist whose profits go to charity, makes it clear, Israel is the place for him. Samuel, keep up your great hasbara work and remember that the adventure of Aliya is the natural result of your Zionism http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhJL651NLr8
The City of David is exceptional in both its beauty and its history. Enjoy this virtual visit http://www.cityofdavid.org.il/hp_eng.asp
Jill and I were sitting in the Mamilla Mall "people watching" while drinking a delicious Café Hafuch. We were mulling the glorious rainbow of humanity which passed us every moment. Ultra Orthodox, Priests in long black robes, girls flirtingly dressed, Moslem women in long robes, black, white and pink tourists and then I saw her…… a strange vision of a woman with Payot (side curls), kippa (skullcap), tzitzit (fringes), short shorts and red high heels!!!! I am all for the rainbow of humanity but surely there is a limit!!!
David Cameron is the Conservative Prime Minister of the UK; Conservative governments have traditionally been pro-Israel but Mr Cameron quickly showed his true colours, as indeed did Mr Obama in the USA. Each and every one of you can do your bit. Write to your local politicians, national politicians, representatives at every level and don't wait for a response before writing again!!!! Write, talk, speak out, research your facts and respond. Being PC and polite is fine in ordinary social conversation but holding back and prying for the best is not the way through this. Speak out and speak up! Finland has a tiny Jewish community but they, together with Christians for Israel, stood up and declared their support for Israel at a particularly rabid anti-Israel demonstration! Leo-Dan I don't want you to think your community goes unnoticed! http://www.israelnationalnews.com/Blogs/Message.aspx/3670
The moonrise over Jerusalem has been spectacular over the last few days. I guess it is recompense for the unbearable heatwave we are suffering!! The Shabbat cooking is over, as the top floor in our building I get all the aromas but do not return them….. thus my wonderful family tradition of fried gefilte fish balls stays my secret while I am privy to Shoshanas Kubeh soup; Michal's Hamin; Rivka's Syrian rice with sweet prunes and pine nuts; Daisy's sweet peppers filled with rice and lamb; ah I could go on for hours but will content myself with my own kitchens culinary delights…unless of course I decide to pop down to Shoshana for a quick taste!!! The veranda is even more beautiful than usual. The pomegranates growing and plumping out to be ready for Rosh Hashana; the Kumquats still like tiny olives before becoming beautiful orange fruits and of course the tiny orange tree which has been beaten by the heat and only has 3 fruits and finally my herb garden. Suddenly we have a garden since putting down artificial grass….. yes I know ….I laughed at the idea too but when one has only ceramic tiles as an option then artificial grass is the closest one can get to luxuriating in green!! Zvi was amazed to find himself talking about "our garden" as he sat on the 4x3 metre carpet!!!
Last but not least I want to express gratitude and admiration for Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Ileana is Israel's strongest and most loyal friend anywhere in the world of politics. She stands behind her loyalties, never hiding behind party politics and is a true leader. Please read http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Editorials/Article.aspx?id=182968 and discover what morals and ethics politicians should follow. Thank you, dear Ileana. Zvi and I are proud to call you and Dexter our friends.
Shabbat Shalom to you all wherever you may be in this wonderful wide world. Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem the heart of our world, my home and yours.
Sheila
Friday 30th July, 2010.
Shabbat Shalom
Israel suffered a terrible tragedy this week when an IDF helicopter carrying six young officers went down while on a Romanian/Israeli military exercise. Those who lost their lives are Lt. Col (Res.) Avner Goldman (48); Lt. Col. Daniel Shipenbauer (43); Maj. Yahel Keshet (33); Maj. Lior Shai (28); Lt. Nir Lakrif (25) and Sergeant 1st Class Oren Cohen (24). May their souls rest in peace and their families know no more sorrow.
Oliver Stone, whose horrendously violent and sick movies are no longer in vogue resorted to an equally violent response for his inadequacies. So Hitler was right eh? Let's see if Hollywood has the ****s to shun him as they didn't with Mel Gibson's "in vino veritas" outburst. By the way, if it is true that Americas Jews run the media and politics why is their press and the State Department so anti-Israel? At least Haim Saban, unlike the ADL, decided that Stone is persona non grata and is prepared to cancel his option http://www.jpost.com/ArtsAndCulture/Entertainment/Article.aspx?id=182995
Khaled Abu Toameh wrote two outstanding articles this week. Palestinian Victim's No-one Cares About http://www.nationalpost.com/todays-paper/Palestinian+victims+talks+about/3316751/story.html which addresses the maltreatment of Palestinians in just about every other Arab country and Palestinians in Gaza invest $20m. in new resorts concerning local tourism and investment in Gaza and the West Bank in resorts and lunar parks– British PM Cameron should read it before currying favour with the Turks! http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=182943
Ishmael Khaldi is a Moslem diplomat; Ishmael Khaldi is an Israeli diplomat, the former Deputy Consul in San Francisco and senior advisor to Minister Avigdor Lieberman; a fact which crushes media truisms; that Avigdor Lieberman in particular and Israel in general are anti-Arab. In the words of Ishmael Khaldi "If Israel were an Apartheid state I would not have been appointed" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishmael_Khaldi
A Major Humanitarian Medical Conference has been held in Israel under the auspices of Stan With Us. Medical students, medical aid workers and doctors from all over the world attended. Kol ha Kavod Stand With Us http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ejiy6eCgII
Who is a Jew is once again an urgent topic. MK David Rothem tried to devolutionise the conversion process but his Knesset Bill was shot down by both Ultra-Orthodox and Reform leaders and the process remains in limbo. Many Russian immigrants are awaiting conversion and an answer must be found to their dilemma. Please read Rabbi Jeremy Rosens honest approach to the impasse. http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.com
Antithisis – the Zionist Rapper- makes Aliya. Samuel Green, the British Zionist rap artist whose profits go to charity, makes it clear, Israel is the place for him. Samuel, keep up your great hasbara work and remember that the adventure of Aliya is the natural result of your Zionism http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhJL651NLr8
The City of David is exceptional in both its beauty and its history. Enjoy this virtual visit http://www.cityofdavid.org.il/hp_eng.asp
Jill and I were sitting in the Mamilla Mall "people watching" while drinking a delicious Café Hafuch. We were mulling the glorious rainbow of humanity which passed us every moment. Ultra Orthodox, Priests in long black robes, girls flirtingly dressed, Moslem women in long robes, black, white and pink tourists and then I saw her…… a strange vision of a woman with Payot (side curls), kippa (skullcap), tzitzit (fringes), short shorts and red high heels!!!! I am all for the rainbow of humanity but surely there is a limit!!!
David Cameron is the Conservative Prime Minister of the UK; Conservative governments have traditionally been pro-Israel but Mr Cameron quickly showed his true colours, as indeed did Mr Obama in the USA. Each and every one of you can do your bit. Write to your local politicians, national politicians, representatives at every level and don't wait for a response before writing again!!!! Write, talk, speak out, research your facts and respond. Being PC and polite is fine in ordinary social conversation but holding back and prying for the best is not the way through this. Speak out and speak up! Finland has a tiny Jewish community but they, together with Christians for Israel, stood up and declared their support for Israel at a particularly rabid anti-Israel demonstration! Leo-Dan I don't want you to think your community goes unnoticed! http://www.israelnationalnews.com/Blogs/Message.aspx/3670
The moonrise over Jerusalem has been spectacular over the last few days. I guess it is recompense for the unbearable heatwave we are suffering!! The Shabbat cooking is over, as the top floor in our building I get all the aromas but do not return them….. thus my wonderful family tradition of fried gefilte fish balls stays my secret while I am privy to Shoshanas Kubeh soup; Michal's Hamin; Rivka's Syrian rice with sweet prunes and pine nuts; Daisy's sweet peppers filled with rice and lamb; ah I could go on for hours but will content myself with my own kitchens culinary delights…unless of course I decide to pop down to Shoshana for a quick taste!!! The veranda is even more beautiful than usual. The pomegranates growing and plumping out to be ready for Rosh Hashana; the Kumquats still like tiny olives before becoming beautiful orange fruits and of course the tiny orange tree which has been beaten by the heat and only has 3 fruits and finally my herb garden. Suddenly we have a garden since putting down artificial grass….. yes I know ….I laughed at the idea too but when one has only ceramic tiles as an option then artificial grass is the closest one can get to luxuriating in green!! Zvi was amazed to find himself talking about "our garden" as he sat on the 4x3 metre carpet!!!
Last but not least I want to express gratitude and admiration for Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Ileana is Israel's strongest and most loyal friend anywhere in the world of politics. She stands behind her loyalties, never hiding behind party politics and is a true leader. Please read http://www.jpost.com/Opinion/Editorials/Article.aspx?id=182968 and discover what morals and ethics politicians should follow. Thank you, dear Ileana. Zvi and I are proud to call you and Dexter our friends.
Shabbat Shalom to you all wherever you may be in this wonderful wide world. Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem the heart of our world, my home and yours.
Sheila
Friday, 23 July 2010
Shabbat Shalom letter
100723
23rd July, 2010
Shabbat Shalom dear friends
A correspondent for one of Japan’s biggest newspapers said last week, “Gaza and the West Bank are the only places in the world where I have seen refugees drive Mercedes.”
Tom Gross' revelations of the large new shopping mall in Gaza went worldwide but no media news companies reported them. He also reported the mansions, markets filled with fruit and vegetables and the spanking new Roots club in Gaza City but was ignored by the press. Is it bias? No…… kowtowing to political correctness. It is politically correct to allow a corrupt and violent regime to become the symbol of suffering and an open, democratic and religiously diverse society to become the pariah. http://www.tomgrossmedia.com/mideastdispatches/archives/001127.html
Politics and diplomacy often create strange bedfellows and sometimes bring together logical allies. The Greek leader Papandraeou is here on an official visit, meeting with our leaders in order to improve Greco-Israel relations. Greece is surely a rational ally for Israel but during our romance with the Turks they chose to distance themselves from us. It is amazing what an argument with the Turks can do!!!!
A minute loophole in a British Law intended to entrap Nazi War criminals but used by Arabs and the New Israel Fund and its subsidiaries to trap Israeli officials and officers abroad, is being closed. The process, started by the Labour Government and pushed through by the Tories is welcomed by Israel. After economic, political and legal ploys by the Arab bloc another door closes. http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?id=182264
Standwithus http://www.standwithus.co.il/ is an outstanding student organization informing students on campuses, giving them reason to be proud of who and what they are. I was invited to attend the fourth annual graduation ceremony of their Fellowship course in the grounds of the Anna Ticho Artists House in Jerusalem http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anna_Ticho. The StandWithUs Fellowship operates on six campus centers across Israel, making it the only nationwide Fellowship of its kind. "They are the face of Israel, eloquent, knowledgeable and charismatic", said Michael Dickson, StandWithUs Israel director of the Israeli Fellows, "they have the capacity to break one hundred stereotypes that people in the wider world may have about Israel"
150 fellows graduated, each and every one sharing a common belief in Zionism and the need to portray Israel in a positive fashion. Michael Dickson, raised and educated in the UK, said that SWU seeks to educate the next generation of Israelis to be globally minded, articulate advocates for Israel. "I genuinely believe that a prime minister of Israel is in this room tonight," said Shay Assor, the StandWithUs Fellowship Director.
The students we met were bright, beautiful, motivated, uplifted, filled with the inspiration and impetus we need but rarely find. Both Jill and I came away uplifted with enormous hope secure in the knowledge that this generation will do a much better job of representing Israel than our generation, which produced Ilan Pappe and Noam Chomsky, ever did. http://www.jpost.com/JewishWorld/JewishNews/Article.aspx?id=182188
Last night we walked the promenade in Mamilla, beneath the walls of the Old City. This time there was no light show but thousands upon thousands of people milled about among the stores and street artists having fun. This was, as always, a multifaceted crowd, Jews, Moslems, Christians, brown, black, white, secular, moderate and ultra-orthodox with one thing in common….not the wonderful Israeli music from the band, nor the side shows, not even the great massage from professionals at a massage stand, but rather FOOD in the heaving restaurants! Israeli salads are amazing and varied; a green salad of phenomenally crispy lettuce, to Israeli chopped salads, aubergine, courgette, avocado, rice, peppers, spicy and sweet – the word salad has a million meanings. Toast is another exotic word, with fillings you cannot even dream of! Our favourite exercise is reading menus and since our fast food is healthy we don't get fat! Jerusalem is popping with activities including a Craft Fair, Film Fair and general entertainment for children and adults.
Talking of food I thought you would enjoy this article about our friend Cef Moshe Basson of Eucalyptus http://www.gojerusalem.com/discover/item_459/Eucalyptus, the restaurant which serves ethnic food using herbs and spices mentioned in the Bible……….with a special twist. Last night Moshe held an unusual feast to remember for his guests. Water Buffalo, locusts, bull's testicles, guinea fowl, swordfish were on the utterly kosher menu. http://www.jpost.com/LocalIsrael/InJerusalem/Article.aspx?id=182320
This has been a joyous week for me as my son Gideon, his wife Stephanie and their 3 children came to stay. Oh joy! All precious objects were securely raised, the veranda made spectacular with a green astro-turf carpet preventing the children from slipping on the tiles as they jump from the paddling pool, the tent, see-saw, tricycles and toys barely allowing room for the table and the children fascinated by the oranges, green and small, the pomegranates growing plump, the tiny olive-like kumquats and the many herbs and hot peppers I grew by mistake! On Tuesday 8 grandchildren played on the veranda making it even more spectacular than usual giving it purpose and joy – only the addition of Joshua could have made it complete. Yosef, Sammy, Talia, Amit, Olivia, Zachary, Ayala and little Gili enjoyed the shade Zvi had placed over the entire veranda and Rachel sat patiently made wonderful creations with them. At five o'clock we grew to 10 children and about the same number of adults as Ira and Velrie, Tomer and Sheli arrived. As darkness fell, children bathed and dreaming, we sat to a meal of salads, humous and pizza…. knowing that the day of mourning (Tisha b'Av http://www.ou.org/yerushalayim/tishabav/ ) had come to an end and we were the privileged generation who could look over Jerusalem in the knowledge that we are back in our Biblical and historic homeland.
Shabbat Shalom and much love from Jerusalem, heart of our world.
Sheila
23rd July, 2010
Shabbat Shalom dear friends
A correspondent for one of Japan’s biggest newspapers said last week, “Gaza and the West Bank are the only places in the world where I have seen refugees drive Mercedes.”
Tom Gross' revelations of the large new shopping mall in Gaza went worldwide but no media news companies reported them. He also reported the mansions, markets filled with fruit and vegetables and the spanking new Roots club in Gaza City but was ignored by the press. Is it bias? No…… kowtowing to political correctness. It is politically correct to allow a corrupt and violent regime to become the symbol of suffering and an open, democratic and religiously diverse society to become the pariah. http://www.tomgrossmedia.com/mideastdispatches/archives/001127.html
Politics and diplomacy often create strange bedfellows and sometimes bring together logical allies. The Greek leader Papandraeou is here on an official visit, meeting with our leaders in order to improve Greco-Israel relations. Greece is surely a rational ally for Israel but during our romance with the Turks they chose to distance themselves from us. It is amazing what an argument with the Turks can do!!!!
A minute loophole in a British Law intended to entrap Nazi War criminals but used by Arabs and the New Israel Fund and its subsidiaries to trap Israeli officials and officers abroad, is being closed. The process, started by the Labour Government and pushed through by the Tories is welcomed by Israel. After economic, political and legal ploys by the Arab bloc another door closes. http://www.jpost.com/International/Article.aspx?id=182264
Standwithus http://www.standwithus.co.il/ is an outstanding student organization informing students on campuses, giving them reason to be proud of who and what they are. I was invited to attend the fourth annual graduation ceremony of their Fellowship course in the grounds of the Anna Ticho Artists House in Jerusalem http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anna_Ticho. The StandWithUs Fellowship operates on six campus centers across Israel, making it the only nationwide Fellowship of its kind. "They are the face of Israel, eloquent, knowledgeable and charismatic", said Michael Dickson, StandWithUs Israel director of the Israeli Fellows, "they have the capacity to break one hundred stereotypes that people in the wider world may have about Israel"
150 fellows graduated, each and every one sharing a common belief in Zionism and the need to portray Israel in a positive fashion. Michael Dickson, raised and educated in the UK, said that SWU seeks to educate the next generation of Israelis to be globally minded, articulate advocates for Israel. "I genuinely believe that a prime minister of Israel is in this room tonight," said Shay Assor, the StandWithUs Fellowship Director.
The students we met were bright, beautiful, motivated, uplifted, filled with the inspiration and impetus we need but rarely find. Both Jill and I came away uplifted with enormous hope secure in the knowledge that this generation will do a much better job of representing Israel than our generation, which produced Ilan Pappe and Noam Chomsky, ever did. http://www.jpost.com/JewishWorld/JewishNews/Article.aspx?id=182188
Last night we walked the promenade in Mamilla, beneath the walls of the Old City. This time there was no light show but thousands upon thousands of people milled about among the stores and street artists having fun. This was, as always, a multifaceted crowd, Jews, Moslems, Christians, brown, black, white, secular, moderate and ultra-orthodox with one thing in common….not the wonderful Israeli music from the band, nor the side shows, not even the great massage from professionals at a massage stand, but rather FOOD in the heaving restaurants! Israeli salads are amazing and varied; a green salad of phenomenally crispy lettuce, to Israeli chopped salads, aubergine, courgette, avocado, rice, peppers, spicy and sweet – the word salad has a million meanings. Toast is another exotic word, with fillings you cannot even dream of! Our favourite exercise is reading menus and since our fast food is healthy we don't get fat! Jerusalem is popping with activities including a Craft Fair, Film Fair and general entertainment for children and adults.
Talking of food I thought you would enjoy this article about our friend Cef Moshe Basson of Eucalyptus http://www.gojerusalem.com/discover/item_459/Eucalyptus, the restaurant which serves ethnic food using herbs and spices mentioned in the Bible……….with a special twist. Last night Moshe held an unusual feast to remember for his guests. Water Buffalo, locusts, bull's testicles, guinea fowl, swordfish were on the utterly kosher menu. http://www.jpost.com/LocalIsrael/InJerusalem/Article.aspx?id=182320
This has been a joyous week for me as my son Gideon, his wife Stephanie and their 3 children came to stay. Oh joy! All precious objects were securely raised, the veranda made spectacular with a green astro-turf carpet preventing the children from slipping on the tiles as they jump from the paddling pool, the tent, see-saw, tricycles and toys barely allowing room for the table and the children fascinated by the oranges, green and small, the pomegranates growing plump, the tiny olive-like kumquats and the many herbs and hot peppers I grew by mistake! On Tuesday 8 grandchildren played on the veranda making it even more spectacular than usual giving it purpose and joy – only the addition of Joshua could have made it complete. Yosef, Sammy, Talia, Amit, Olivia, Zachary, Ayala and little Gili enjoyed the shade Zvi had placed over the entire veranda and Rachel sat patiently made wonderful creations with them. At five o'clock we grew to 10 children and about the same number of adults as Ira and Velrie, Tomer and Sheli arrived. As darkness fell, children bathed and dreaming, we sat to a meal of salads, humous and pizza…. knowing that the day of mourning (Tisha b'Av http://www.ou.org/yerushalayim/tishabav/ ) had come to an end and we were the privileged generation who could look over Jerusalem in the knowledge that we are back in our Biblical and historic homeland.
Shabbat Shalom and much love from Jerusalem, heart of our world.
Sheila
Friday, 16 July 2010
Shabbat Shalom letter
100716
16th July, 2010–07–16
Shabbat Shalom!
Nu? So did you miss me? I was having the best time in the world with my children and grandchildren and of course my siblings in the UK and visiting the Green, Green Grass of Wales – it really is greener than anywhere else in the world!!! Quite apart from the tourism I was so proud to go to the new synagogue in Cardiff right next the house in which I grew up – especially since my brother in law Melvyn and cousin Roger were so involved in the building, and my nephew Steven - and because the prayer for the State of Israel and the IDF was dedicated to my late parents.
I arrive home to the final buzzing of the World Cup. We went to our dear friends Rosa and Bernardo for the semi-final and then they came to us for the final. Right up until the last seconds Zvi was praying for the Dutch to win. We Jews have long memories and the Dutch were far better historically than the German or Spanish teams, so we went for Spain!! Oh well – Spain won and it was a good game.
Arab Knesset members, including Haneen Zouabi who took part in the infamous Gaza flotilla, have been invited by anti-Israel MPs to meet British lawmakers in Parliament. The purpose is to emphasise the claim that Israel is a racist society. Surely anathema to a situation whereby a group of people who call themselves Palestinians sit in the Israeli Knesset and reach the position of Deputy Speaker of the House; the ultimate manifestation of democracy. There will be a demonstration outside Parliament on the 28th of July. Brits please stop being polite and express your disgust at this display of double-standards – Americans, don't be smug – you are next- after the Mosque has been built on the site of 9/11.
http://www.middleeastmonitor.org.uk/events/event/26-arab-members-of-the-israeli-knesset
The upside down ethical standards of our world are demonstrated in Madrid where the Gay Parade has banned Israeli participants! Israel is the only country in the entire Middle East with freedom to express sexual preference whereas all our neighbours who stone, beat and behead homosexuals are welcomed. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3901785,00.html
Did you know that the Syrians have joined the Turks in killing off Kurds? Actually they don't always kill them off – sometimes they strip them of their citizenship so that they cannot get work or feed their families. Where is the outrage? Maybe all the worlds sympathy and energy has been spent on the Gazans. Gaza, poor Gaza – just like Namibia, Darfur, Haiti. See the poverty in this presentation http://ht.ly/2aDQA
I don't know if this it your news but for the first time in a decade, senior Palestinian police officers hosted GOC of the Central Command, Maj. Gen. Avi Mizrahi in the Judea and Samaria region. During the visit, the presidential guard displayed a number of exercises and operational tactics which demonstrated the challenges faced by Palestinian security forces. The Head of the Civil Administration, Brig. Gen. Yoav Poly and senior IDF Central Command officers also accompanied the visit. "The relationship between the IDF and the Palestinian security apparatus is very professional and successful in creating the security quiet that protects all sides", said Maj. Gen. Mizrahi.
Why no Pollard exchange? Unlike the Russians who did a "spy swap" after their embarrassing passport fiasco Israel has no spies to exchange for a man who has been held in solitary confinement for an inordinate amount of time by our closest allies. Why? Because we give the USA all the information they need or want, unconditionally. Friends?
Conversion dilemma. Member of Knesset David Rotem, a modern orthodox MK, found the current conversion situation untenable whereby the Rabbinical Courts not only decide who is a Jew but can retroactively deny conversion. MK Rotem put forward a bill which would allow local Rabbis and Rabbinical courts to perform conversion as opposed to the current situation whereby all conversions go through Jerusalem, however it then firmly places the conversion issue under the Chief Rabbinates jurisdiction and could preclude some converts already deemed Jewish. The issue has become deeply political rather than religious at a time when we need unity. Natan Sharansky's words on the subject http://www.jewishagency.co.il/JewishAgency/english/_MasterWave/printPage.htm?actionguid={819E4C68-0967-44E9-ACA3-103FC4FDD5E4}&CurrLang=en
Tuesday is Tisha b'Av. I do not claim to be a Torah Scholar so I will give you two options – two views of Tisha b'Av one from Rabbi Jeremy Rosen http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.com and the other from Chabad http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/144575/jewish/The-9th-of-Av-Tisha-BAv.htm
So, as I asked before – did you miss me? Coming home is always special and this time it is even more special since I knew that my son Gideon, daughter in law Stephanie and the incredible Sammy, Olivia and Zachary would be following me just a few days later! Oh what fun we will have, especially now that Saba Zvi put the huge shade over the veranda, ensuring safe playing in the paddling pool. Our home will be filled with the laughter of children as all of them will come to play wit their little British cousins. Auntie Jill is here, lapping up the extreme heat while she sits on our veranda lapping up the view.
We will take the children to the Biblical Zoo, to the Bloomfield Science Museum, to Little Israel and the Latrun Tank Museum- to forests for picnics and to a nearby village which has amazing soft play. Israel is a country for children. Babysitters are barely needed since the children sleep in the afternoon and then come out to restaurants and town centre with their parents – it is a total family experience.
I must run now since one lot of grandchildren just left and the house needs making ready for Shabbat!!! I love the tiled floors but they do need a wash!!!
Be well, enjoy your Shabbat and come see us soon – the veranda is now shady and the evenings balmy…and the view as breathtaking as ever.
With much love from the most beautiful city in the world
Sheila
16th July, 2010–07–16
Shabbat Shalom!
Nu? So did you miss me? I was having the best time in the world with my children and grandchildren and of course my siblings in the UK and visiting the Green, Green Grass of Wales – it really is greener than anywhere else in the world!!! Quite apart from the tourism I was so proud to go to the new synagogue in Cardiff right next the house in which I grew up – especially since my brother in law Melvyn and cousin Roger were so involved in the building, and my nephew Steven - and because the prayer for the State of Israel and the IDF was dedicated to my late parents.
I arrive home to the final buzzing of the World Cup. We went to our dear friends Rosa and Bernardo for the semi-final and then they came to us for the final. Right up until the last seconds Zvi was praying for the Dutch to win. We Jews have long memories and the Dutch were far better historically than the German or Spanish teams, so we went for Spain!! Oh well – Spain won and it was a good game.
Arab Knesset members, including Haneen Zouabi who took part in the infamous Gaza flotilla, have been invited by anti-Israel MPs to meet British lawmakers in Parliament. The purpose is to emphasise the claim that Israel is a racist society. Surely anathema to a situation whereby a group of people who call themselves Palestinians sit in the Israeli Knesset and reach the position of Deputy Speaker of the House; the ultimate manifestation of democracy. There will be a demonstration outside Parliament on the 28th of July. Brits please stop being polite and express your disgust at this display of double-standards – Americans, don't be smug – you are next- after the Mosque has been built on the site of 9/11.
http://www.middleeastmonitor.org.uk/events/event/26-arab-members-of-the-israeli-knesset
The upside down ethical standards of our world are demonstrated in Madrid where the Gay Parade has banned Israeli participants! Israel is the only country in the entire Middle East with freedom to express sexual preference whereas all our neighbours who stone, beat and behead homosexuals are welcomed. http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3901785,00.html
Did you know that the Syrians have joined the Turks in killing off Kurds? Actually they don't always kill them off – sometimes they strip them of their citizenship so that they cannot get work or feed their families. Where is the outrage? Maybe all the worlds sympathy and energy has been spent on the Gazans. Gaza, poor Gaza – just like Namibia, Darfur, Haiti. See the poverty in this presentation http://ht.ly/2aDQA
I don't know if this it your news but for the first time in a decade, senior Palestinian police officers hosted GOC of the Central Command, Maj. Gen. Avi Mizrahi in the Judea and Samaria region. During the visit, the presidential guard displayed a number of exercises and operational tactics which demonstrated the challenges faced by Palestinian security forces. The Head of the Civil Administration, Brig. Gen. Yoav Poly and senior IDF Central Command officers also accompanied the visit. "The relationship between the IDF and the Palestinian security apparatus is very professional and successful in creating the security quiet that protects all sides", said Maj. Gen. Mizrahi.
Why no Pollard exchange? Unlike the Russians who did a "spy swap" after their embarrassing passport fiasco Israel has no spies to exchange for a man who has been held in solitary confinement for an inordinate amount of time by our closest allies. Why? Because we give the USA all the information they need or want, unconditionally. Friends?
Conversion dilemma. Member of Knesset David Rotem, a modern orthodox MK, found the current conversion situation untenable whereby the Rabbinical Courts not only decide who is a Jew but can retroactively deny conversion. MK Rotem put forward a bill which would allow local Rabbis and Rabbinical courts to perform conversion as opposed to the current situation whereby all conversions go through Jerusalem, however it then firmly places the conversion issue under the Chief Rabbinates jurisdiction and could preclude some converts already deemed Jewish. The issue has become deeply political rather than religious at a time when we need unity. Natan Sharansky's words on the subject http://www.jewishagency.co.il/JewishAgency/english/_MasterWave/printPage.htm?actionguid={819E4C68-0967-44E9-ACA3-103FC4FDD5E4}&CurrLang=en
Tuesday is Tisha b'Av. I do not claim to be a Torah Scholar so I will give you two options – two views of Tisha b'Av one from Rabbi Jeremy Rosen http://jeremyrosen.blogspot.com and the other from Chabad http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/144575/jewish/The-9th-of-Av-Tisha-BAv.htm
So, as I asked before – did you miss me? Coming home is always special and this time it is even more special since I knew that my son Gideon, daughter in law Stephanie and the incredible Sammy, Olivia and Zachary would be following me just a few days later! Oh what fun we will have, especially now that Saba Zvi put the huge shade over the veranda, ensuring safe playing in the paddling pool. Our home will be filled with the laughter of children as all of them will come to play wit their little British cousins. Auntie Jill is here, lapping up the extreme heat while she sits on our veranda lapping up the view.
We will take the children to the Biblical Zoo, to the Bloomfield Science Museum, to Little Israel and the Latrun Tank Museum- to forests for picnics and to a nearby village which has amazing soft play. Israel is a country for children. Babysitters are barely needed since the children sleep in the afternoon and then come out to restaurants and town centre with their parents – it is a total family experience.
I must run now since one lot of grandchildren just left and the house needs making ready for Shabbat!!! I love the tiled floors but they do need a wash!!!
Be well, enjoy your Shabbat and come see us soon – the veranda is now shady and the evenings balmy…and the view as breathtaking as ever.
With much love from the most beautiful city in the world
Sheila
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