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Tdrs.org.uk


Volume 26 Etz Chaim
Pictures from Purim
Report from Board of 
World Holocaust Day
and much much more!
Kosher l'Pesach food is now instore at the Broadstairs/Westwood 
branch of Sainsbury's and includes some items not previously in 
Rabbi Sonny Herman
Community Rabbi: 
Rabbi Cliff Cohen
Vice Chairman/Treasurer: 
Honorary Secretary: 
Council Members: Brian Abraham, Hélène Cohen, Esther Solomon, David 
Fox, Simon Wolfe, Janine Chilley
Thanet & District Reform Synagogue, 293A Margate Rd, Ramsgate, CT12 6TE
TEL: 01843 851164 - A constituent member of the Movement for Reform Judaism
Shabbat services and Festivals Calendar
Saturday 19th April – Saturday 21 June 2008 / Nisan 14 – Sivan 18, 5768
Kabbalat Shabbat services are held every Friday at 7.30pm (except the Shab-
bat Suppers – 6.45pm.)
Saturday services are on the first and third Saturday of each month at 
Torah breakfasts start at 9.15am, followed by a shorter service at 10.30am. 
(NB Festival times vary – see below)
As the calendar is prepared in advance, details shown may be subject to 
amendment. Call 01843 851164 to check.
PARTY for the 60th 
Sat 19 Apr, 1030am
Sat 17 May, 1030am
Communal Seder 6:45pm
Sat 7 Jun, 1030am
Sun 20 Apr, 10am
Pesach, first day
Sun 8 Jun, 7pm
Sat 3 May, 1030am 
Blessing for Iyar
Tikkun leyl Shavuot
Mon 9 Jun, 10am
Wed 7 May, 7pm
Sat 21 Jun, 1030am
Erev Yom Ha'atzmaut
Israel Remembrance Day
Shelach Lecha
Coming Soon from Jewish Kent:
On Sunday 27th July, at Margate Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, 
the second part of The Value of Prayer with Rev Malcolm Weissman, 
United Synagogue's Minister to Small Communities. Please contact 
Ian Smiler for further details.
Shalom and Welcome to Etz 
ever we have had lots of positive 
It has been a busy few months 
feedback and constructive criti-
since the last issue, with many 
cism following our first attempt. 
events at the synagogue along-
It has all been gratefully received. 
side other events in the wider 
We would also like to thank you 
community at which our mem-
for all the contributions we have 
bers were represented. We hope 
received for this newletter. Please 
that this issue reflects how busy 
don't lose heart if we haven't 
we have all been! As a family we 
found a place for them in this 
were lucky enough to go to the 
edition - they are the life blood 
Chanukah party, the Purim party of this newsletter and are always 
and Benjy Cohen's Bar Mitzvah. 
These events were great fun and 
were all a good showcase for the 
For this issue we are trying a new 
work that Hélène Cohen has 
layout style and we probably will 
done with the Havdalah Club.
keep changing for a few issues 
until we settle into our new role, 
It is a daunting task to take 
and find the ideal style
over editing a newsletter like Etz 
Chaim that is both well estab-
Eleanor and Graham Miller
lished and well received. How-
The Editors reserve the right to edit any material accepted for publication.
The deadline for the next issue is 14 June 2008.
All correspondence or articles to: 
Etz Chaim News, 1 Wenderton Cottages, Wenderton Lane, 
Wingham, CT3 1EL or email [email protected]. 
Tel: 01227 722182
The articles, letters, advertising and content in this newsletter do not nec-essarily reflect the views of the Thanet and District Reform Synagogue or of the Movement for Reform Judaism. 
• consult with Government on 
proposed legislation
• respond to racist activities
In the Jewish and wider commu-
• promote Jewish schooling and 
The Board of Deputies of British 
education and run the ‘Pikuach' 
Jews exists to protect and defend 
inspection service for Jewish 
the rights and freedoms of Brit-
ish Jewry. These same rights and • create long-term policy strate-
freedoms have evolved over many 
gies through the work of our 
years and are enjoyed by Jews in 
Community Policy Research 
Great Britain today. But events 
Group think-tank;
are seldom static. Changes to 
• engage in interfaith and envi-
legislation, campaigns by special 
ronmental initiatives; and
interest groups, outright attacks 
• display the pioneering Jewish 
on Jews and Israel–all require a 
Way of Life Exhibition to non-
concerted response.
Jewish children.
As the community's representa-
On the international stage we:
tive organisation, the Board of 
Deputies is able to engage with 
• represent the interests of British 
government, the media and 
Jewry in Europe and around the 
wider society, providing a vehicle 
through which British Jews have 
• consult on areas affecting 
Diaspora Jewry with the British 
government and foreign embas-
It is with pride that the Board of 
Deputies represents the rights 
• monitor European legislation; 
and interests of British Jews in 
every walk of life. Below are some • work to enhance the under-
of the core things we do every 
standing of Israel and its pursuit 
of peace and security;
In the area of defence and group 
It is important to remember that 
the Board of Deputies does these 
• combat antisemitism 
things by protecting the freedoms 
• foster relations with faith groups of British Jewry everyday. In the 
and wider society
last 18 months, for example we
• monitor moves affecting shechi-
ta and brit milah
• headed off government propos-
als to bring in quotas to Jewish 
schools, and leading the way on 
the country, as well as in London for 
a national faith schools linking 
the Greater London Authority and 
other elected offices, including that 
• launched the Big Green Jewish 
of Mayor. The threshold for them 
Website, merging Jewish tradition to gain a seat on the GLA, together 
and environmental concerns;
with the public funds that then be-
• protested against the mass 
come available, is a mere 5 per cent 
murder in Darfur, drawing on the of the vote.
lessons of the Holocaust;
• organised demonstrations and 
The good news is that extremist and 
lobbied to free captured Israeli 
racist candidates can be stopped from 
securing elected office if the turnout 
• combating anti-Israel cam-
is sufficiently high, and so every vote 
paigns wherever they emerge, 
cast on the day counts.
most recently in the Church and 
This is why the Board of Deputies 
• are directing a voter registration has launched an awareness and voter 
drive against extremism in the 
registration drive in the lead-up to 
run up to the local London elec-
the May elections. Register, vote, and 
tions in May; and
if necessary, obtain a postal vote.
• are spearheading with the CST 
the Jewish Human Rights Coali-
For information and to support the 
tion UK, a U.N. Durban Review 
cross-communal response to the local 
and London elections in May, see www.fight-racism.co.uk or contact 
But most importantly, we're your 
Board of Deputies – protecting 
and defending the rights and 
A core text of the Passover Hagadah 
interests of British Jews since 
is the reminder, "In every generation 
1760. With your help we'll be do-
they rise up against us…" It is 
ing so for the next 248 years as 
a cautionary adage that should 
awaken our responsibility to fight complacency and to work with people of all faiths to ensure that we live in a peaceful and tolerant society. 
Local Elections on 1 May: An 
Each vote for a mainstream party is 
Important Message 
a vote against extremism. Vote and you help guarantee that our voice will be heard. Stay at home and you risk 
Extremist parties, most notably the 
that their voice will. It's your voice or 
British National Party, are prepar-
theirs. It's really that simple.
ing local election campaigns in a number of local authorities across 
Jewish Music in Thanet
Thanks to your contribution, the 
target of 500,000 donors on the 
On Sunday 7 Sep this year we 
largest Jewish Bone Marrow registry 
will again be holding open house 
keeps getting closer, enabling the 
in the synagogue as part of the 
facilitation of literally hundreds of 
annual European Day of Jewish 
extra lifesaving procedures every 
Culture and Heritage This year's year and for years to come. To-
theme is JEWISH MUSIC,
gether we can make a difference, literally between life and death for 
There is a wide potential for 
those around the world, now and in 
events on the day, celebrating the the future, desperately waiting for a 
huge Jewish contribution to the 
life saving match.
world of music. We can celebrate 
the music of our liturgy; Jewish 
music reflecting different tradi-
tions of the countries Jews have 
settled; works of Jewish compos-
Community Campaign
ers, both classical and modern, 
British Friends of Ezer Mizion
and evergreen songs composed 
for Broadway and films.
(We raised £195.50 for Ezer Mizion Kol Nidre Appeal. If you would like 
We plan to have short perform-
to see more of their work – www.
ances during the day. Do you 
have any suggestions? Are you a 
musician or singer? Do you know JCD – Jewish Child's Day
anyone who would like to take 
part? Have you any thoughts 
Thank you for supporting JCD's 
and ideas for this exciting event? 
Chanukah appeal.
Would you like to be part of the 
co-ordinating team?
As you know, JCD is celebrating its 60th anniversary this Chanukah and 
Any suggestions – give Godfrey 
our help is needed more than ever 
Fischer a call on the synagogue 
Your valued contribution will go 
Charity thank you:
towards continuing the vital work JCD undertakes all year round 
Ezer Mizion
in helping thousands of abused, neglected, handicapped and 
Please accept this expression of our 
underprivileged Jewish children to 
heartfelt appreciation for your sup-
make a better life for themselves.
port of the Ezer Mizion Bone Mar-row Donor Registry.
Thanking you once again. 

With kind regards,
Havdalah Club Leads 
The Way In Tu B' Shevat 
Executive Director
(This money was raised by those who came to our Chanukah party by 
To celebrate Tu B' Shevat a special 
putting their loose change (and a few 
service was held at the synagogue by 
notes as well) in the JCD money box)
Havdalah club members. Following preparation work at previous club 
Is It Kosher?
meetings, prayers and readings where said by members of the club. The 
At Thanet's local kosher grocers 
children were all great and their 
(AKA Sainsbury's) there is a new 
contribution made the occasion extra 
label on the shelf underneath the 
special. Recent Bar Mitzvah Benjy 
semi-perishable kosher range – 
Cohen showed fantastic knowledge 
Annabel Karmel. Amongst other 
and maturity in planning the service 
things, Annabel has created a 
together with his compilation and 
range of meals for youngsters 
production of the service booklet.
who hate vegetables. There are 
three versions – vegetarian, 
As parents of children attending the 
chicken and beef. Is it kosher? 
Havdalah club, we say special thanks 
Well, no. Don't be fooled by the 
to Hélène and to all those involved. 
name – it's not an alternative 
Keep up the good work!
mountain transliteration! How-
ever, for readers whose interest is Golda and Paul Valek
specifically vegetarian food, look 
Godfrey, you may know, has an 
interest in Jewish heritage tours 
and kosher food abroad, received 
an email from a Spanish whole-
saler of kosher wines whose 
name is María Jesús Íñiguez! 
Is the wine really kosher? Well, 
yes. Certified by the Rabbinate 
of Paris. Unfortunately, it's not 
available in the Costa del Thanet.
From the Bulletin of Hendon 
ing we saw what are virtually pages 
Reform Synagogue - by Larry 
from the book itself, as it will look. 
We saw one or two of the stunning il-lustrations, some of the dedications, 
Who on Earth would call a meeting 
were able to see the actual typeface 
on a Monday morning in December 
and the font and the colour. it was 
at 8:15am? Is that a time that you 
both exciting and emotional with a 
would think of calling a meeting? 
touch of nostalgic regret that these 
Whoever do you imagine would 
meetings are nearly over, because 
turn up? You are probably saying 
they have been spiritually uplifting 
"no-one" and you'd be right. that is and (for me anyway) an insight into unless you were Rabbi Elaina Roth-
a world I had never known.
man, and the end of SEVEN LONG YEARS of being in charge of the Sid-
If you think, as well you might, that 
dur Steering Committee, that is. The 
the new Siddur is just the finished 
usual time for these meetings was 
version of the draft we have been 
8:15 on a Monday.
using for months, it is understand-able. but you would be WRONG. 
On Monday morning December 3rd 
There are 756 pages in the Siddur. It 
her penultimate meeting was FULL. 
will take a lot of reading. The Study 
Every single member was on time. 
Anthology alone could be a book in 
So who are they? Well, two Rabbis, 
itself. As soon as we know the date, 
and one Rabbi Professor, three im-
there will be a special introduc-
portant members of the Movement 
tory Shabbat for it here at Dane-
for Reform Judaism staff, one Move-
scroft when Rabbi Katz will guide 
ment Board member, a well-known 
us through our first service using 
and knowledgeable Christian 
it. Our books will all be embossed 
author and expert on prayer books, 
on the back with the name of the 
the person in charge of music for 
synagogue (except those you have 
the new siddur, who is a member of 
ordered for yourselves) and the de-
Finchley Reform, the recent Chair-
luxe version will also be delivered 
man of the Services Committee at 
at the same time or shortly after. 
Alyth and now Chair of the Gover-
Rabbi Amanda Golby has been 
nors of Akiva School and a JCoss 
responsible for the twenty page 
Trustee. Oh and one other, who is 
glossary that will be at the back, 
writing this. Eleven people, bright 
and the illustrators come from all 
and early, eager to go. at the 60th 
over. especially from other Euro-
meeting of the Siddur Steering 
pean countries, some even from the 
Former Soviet Union, so as Rabbi Professor Jonathan Magonet said 
Not only is it the sixtieth meeting af-
"this is truly a European Siddur". 
ter seven long years, but at last, the 
As a nostalgic look back, there will 
end is in sight. At this special meet-
also be an attractive collage of some of the synagogues featured in the 

last Siddur, a link with the past, but 
Jewish Women's Week
with forward looking new stunning illustrations as well. There has been interest in the Siddur from South 
The appeal for this year's Jewish 
Africa and from Australia, and it is 
Women's Week is helping WIZO 
hoped that eventually, it will reach 
to work towards building a society 
a worldwide Progressive Jewish 
where today's vulnerable youngsters 
will become tomorrow's successful adults. With their and your support, young people in Israel can and will reach their full potential.
Last year's campaign raised over £270,000 – a wonderful way to 
Don't forget the Tzadekah 
celebrate 60 years of caring.
box. It's been a great 
WIZO opens the doors of opportunity 
success so far, and we wish 
to everyone in need regardless of race 
to give a full content to our 
or religion. They do this through the 
next adopted charity in the 
many centres all over Israel and their 
highly trained staff works to change the lives of disadvantaged young people. As much help is needed as possible in raising funds to help maintain their crucial work which will enable today's dependent youth play a valuable role in Israel's future.
To donate you may send your donation by post to JWW Campaign, 107 Gloucester Place, London, W1U 6BY, or telephone 020 7486 2691. You may also donate online at www.
wizouk.org/jww. If you sign the gift aid form WIZO can claim 25p for every £1 donated.
Jewish Women's Week is 
4th to 11th May 2008. 
A Word or Two…
I still have the archive copies if anyone would like to seem them. 
I have to admit that when I received 
Incidentally, for the 20th anniversary 
my copy of the last Etz Chaim News I special edition of Etz Chaim News had a touch of déja vu. And why, you 
I produced a potted history based 
may ask? Well, I had the privilege 
on articles in the newsletters. If you 
and pleasure of producing the first 
haven't seen it, just let me know.
issue in 1985 and, you guessed it, the same A5 size! However, there are Well, that's enough reminiscing. some very basic differences. Never 
Since the last issue we have enjoyed 
mind Life on Mars and the seven-
happy family events. The Barmitzvah 
ties. As I write this, BBC TV has just 
of Benjy Cohen was truly a simcha 
launched the eighties sequel, Ashes 
to be remembered. A look at the 
to Ashes. Look at the newly intro-
children in the Havdalah Club shows 
duced computers with green print 
how we can be looking forward to 
on grey screens. Few of us had such 
more B'nei mitzvot in the future. 
luxuries in those days. From 1985 to 
And the month after we had another 
1987 the newsletter was typed on a 
blessing, literally - Zach and Gabri-
portable typewriter and, because 
ella Rothman were given a special 
we couldn't fit everything on the 
blessing as part of their naming cer-
page, we used the technology of the 
emony during the Shabbat service. 
day in the form of a photocopier and So when's the next chupah?reduced the master A4 page to A5. Some readers had trouble read-
On a more serious note, the sup-
ing the smaller print. 23 years later 
port by the local Jewish community 
and I now understand that problem 
of the National Holocaust Memo-
better. However, the solution of the 
rial Day service in Albion Gardens, 
day was to buy a magnifying glass. 
Ramsgate, on Sunday 27 January 
Early technology it may have been; 
was much appreciated. There were 
but beloved written medium of the 
about 20 members and friends of 
newly emergent Thanet Reform 
both synagogues in an overall at-
Community it certainly was. In 1987 
tendance of around 50. 
we moved to an early version of desktop publishing (and laborious 
A successful AGM has been held 
it was, too). The big change, literally, and I welcome Janine Chilley, who was to go to a larger A4 page.
comes to Council for the first time, and a special welcome to Esther 
So it has been for the years after-
Solomon who is able to rejoin after 
wards until December 2007. It's 
a year's absence. May I take this 
always a good idea to relaunch and 
opportunity to applaud the support 
this was a relaunch which resulted in I have been given by all the Coun-many a compliment to the new edi-
cil members, as well as that given, 
tors. The comparison to the original 
with much understanding, from their 
A5 version; well, chalk and cheese. 
spouses. Along with the sterling 
input from Rabbi Cohen I hope you 
and donate the refreshments, 
feel we have attained a vibrant Jew-
pastries and other victuals. 
ish Community for East Kent. Not all of last years colleagues, however, 
HOWEVER, the current break-
can return to Council. I will miss 
down of membership shows that 
Sally Bass' input, but Melbourne is 
whilst we see a gradual increase 
a bit too far to come for the meet-
of numbers, the availability of 
ings. I hope that her chosen local 
locations has reduced. Although 
Reform synagogue will be sensible 
the coffee mornings will continue 
and take advantage of her skills and 
to be a must on our social cal-
experience. And Sam Cohen will be 
endar, it is unfair to place the 
leaving the ‘shores' of Thanet to go 
burden on the same few people 
to university. He may not be back to 
all the time. So, with your sup-
Thanet to rejoin our Council but I am port, we can have a new kid on sure many a Jewish organisation will 
the block – the personalised coffee 
appreciate his support in the future.
morning, or mini-coffee morning. 
Perhaps someone could come up 
Hazel and I wish you a very happy 
with a catchier name!
HERE'S the idea. Invite a few 
people around for coffee and 
cakes – members living in your 
locale or your friends in the com-
munity and anyone else you care 
to ask. Charge everyone £2 for 
coffee and goodies and donate 
the proceeds to the synagogue. 
For the price of a coffee in a local 
café you get cakes, biscuits, etc., 
the bonhomie and the feel-good 
Coffee mornings – a new di-
factor of everyone doing their bit 
to support the synagogue. Over to 
you! All you need is the date and 
AS a means of raising money in 
a reasonably painless way, the 
synagogue's coffee mornings have 
always been popular. These usu-
ally take place in the home of a 
kind host and or hostess. How-
ever, times change, as does the 
makeup of the membership, and 
we need to keep abreast of these 
changes. We rely on the kindness 
of members to open their houses 11
Foster Carer's Fun Day
out and there are no plans for future events.
Our team at last year's World Food Day were asked if the synagogue 
would be willing to do the same at the Foster Carer's Fun Day. And 
Bursaries for Abrahamic De-
that's how Jacqui Rose with Hazel 
and Godfrey Fischer found them-selves at Pfizer's Social Club in 
Heythrop College, a specialist col-
February. The day was organised by 
lege of the University of London, 
Social Services to give foster carers 
has launched a new BA degree 
and their charges a pleasant day out 
in Abrahamic faiths, which is the 
with all kinds of activities. Maypole 
first of its kind in this country. It 
dancing, steel band workshop, 
offers the opportunity for Jews, 
tai-kwondo display, cheer-leaders, 
Christians and Muslims to study 
Egyptology, face painting, lots of 
together in a unique venture that 
games, and more, something to suit 
will make considerable contribu-
tion to interfaith relations. The 
courses are taught by lecturers 
The Faith Zone had as its backdrop 
from each of the three traditions 
a sari and a prayer mat. On the table 
and substantial bursaries are 
were various items from our Judaica 
available for students.
Shop as well as leaflets about our community and the interfaith talks. 
The range of the course covers the 
It gave the opportunity for visitors 
questions of what are the Abra-
to meet and ask questions of repre-
hamic religions? Why are they 
sentatives from different faiths, or to 
important?; and how do they see 
pick up relevant leaflets about the 
religions. "That" said Godfrey, "was 
The degree offers a chance to 
the theory. We were the only rep-
study the three monotheistic reli-
resentatives in the Faith Zone and 
gions with a high level of teaching 
the leaflets looked as if they came 
from Jewish, Christian and Mus-
from the Social Services manual of 
lim teachers. The U of L degree 
how to conduct oneself when meet-
is recognised worldwide and also 
ing persons from other religions. 
gives students the opportunity of 
However, this was a very minor point a living contacts with the life of 
when you looked at the faces of the 
the three communities.
children enjoying themselves. And we did have quite a number of peo-
Heythrop College is situated in 
ple come to chat to us, which is all 
Kensington, London, within pri-
we ask for". Future Fun Days could 
vate gardens. To see for yourself, 
well benefit from the expertise 
there is an open days this month 
of the proposed Thanet interfaith 
- Monday 28 April. To attend, 
group. However, the funding has run 12

contact the Principal's PA on 020 
Our first Shabbaton Supper of the 
year was held on February 22nd, attended by approximately 26 of our 
community, family and friends. The meal consisted of melon followed by 
For details of the course, contact 
fish, chips and green salad, prepared 
Jonathan Gorsky, Lecturer in 
by Lorna with the able assistance of 
Jewish Studies, 020 7795 4219 
Kay. The dessert was Hazel's special 
chocolate cake (a great surprise for Martin on his birthday). The meal 
ended with tea and coffee. WE would like to thank Lorna, Kay, 
Heythrop University of London, 
Hazel and, of course, our Chairman, 
Kensington Square, 
Godfrey - together with the ‘waiting' staff who served us all so briskly and 
efficiently. It was a delightful evening of eating, 
T: 020 7795 6600 
chatting, Sabbath songs and laughter.
F: 020 7795 4200; enquiries@
Tom & Rivka Dodds.
Pictures below from Purim 
2008, and one from the 
Foster Carer's Fun Day (spot 
the odd one out!)



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persons. Many people who need 
Caring help at
some assistance with daily living 
tasks would rather stay in their own homes and direct their own lives. 
THE NATIONAL Health Service is the Bluebird Care makes that possible subject of much contentious discus-
by providing a range of care serv-
sions these days. Whether you love 
ices, which gives customers the 
it or hate it, you can't do without it. If 
freedom to carry on their lives as 
money is no object you can go pri-
normally as possible. Care visits 
vate. Some subscribe to one of the 
can range from 15 minutes to a full 
various medical insurances, which 
live-in service."
can be most reassuring. But most people, even today, take comfort 
AN EXAMPLE of the services of-
in a health service that may not be 
fered are, help getting up or going 
perfect but is there when you need it to bed, preparing meals, shopping, in an emergency. Many in our com-
cleaning and laundry, personal 
munity have been in the emergency 
hygiene including bathing or help 
situation and, for the most part, our 
with outings.
local hospital services come up trumps.
ALL STAFF are carefully chosen and then checked by the Criminal 
IT'S IN the aftercare that worries 
Records Bureau. Care workers 
begin. What happens when you 
are trained to provide the highest 
get home and you still need help? 
standards of customer care as well 
Not everyone has a family nearby 
as how to meet individual needs 
to continue the caring. Also, when 
and preferences. Bluebird Care is 
home care is provided by the social 
registered with the Commission 
services, there may still be a charge 
for Social Care Inspection (the 
– depending on one's benefits 
government body which regulates 
care provision in the UK) and will be regularly inspected to ensure 
THERE IS now an alternative in East 
Kent with the opening of Bluebird Care, a national company with the 
CHRISTINE is a qualified social 
local franchise set up by mother and worker and manager and Saffron daughter team, Christine and Saf-
has worked in residential, day care 
fron Hudson, working from a newly 
and community settings providing 
appointed office 161 King Street, 
care to those with mental health 
CHRISTINE says, " Bluebird Care of-
If you happen to be shopping in Ram-
fers a real alternative to residential 
sgate, call in for a chat and a friendly Yorkshire welcome. Or telephone them 
care for older adults and disabled 
on 01843 570638
An online Judaica shop based in the UK.
Kippot, Tallits and accessories,
Chanukiahs and Dreidls,
Magen Davids and Chais, in silver, gold and 
Mezuzot and Mezuzah Scrolls
Shabbat candles and candlesticks,
Havdallah sets and other regalia for the home,
Gifts, toys, and Hebrew and Yiddish novelties,
And much, much more.
We are always open to suggestions – whatever it is, if 
you want it, we'll do our very best to find it for you.
We offer shopping online, by mail order, or by party 
plan – host a BuyJewishStuff Judaica coffee morning 
and raise money for the Shul or for the charity of your 
For more details, or to see our stock, visit our website 
on http://www.buyjewishstuff.biz, where you can fol-
low the link to our eBay shop, or contact us on email 
- [email protected] or by phone - 01227 
Advertising in Etz Chaim
A great way to raise awareness in the community of local serv-
Quarterly newsletter for Thanet and District Reform Synagogue
Publication for the local Jewish community including events, 
reports and items of general interest.
Reaches over 75 households in the Thanet/East Kent region.
B/W: Full Page £50, Half page £30, Quarter page £20
Colour: Full Page £75, Half Page £75
If you would like to submit an advert for inclusion in Etz Chaim, 
please contact David Fox by email: [email protected] or by 
c/o Thanet and District Reform Synagogue
293A Margate Road
Headlines of the Board of Dep-
share concerns over the impact on 
uties' activities. Unabridged 
community relations and the welfare 
news items can be found at 
of the community on the subject of 
granting visitor visas to those ex-pressing extremist and anti-Jewish 
Board of Deputies Brussels 
views. "We need to understand the mechanics of the process by which 
delegation meets EU parlia-
these decisions are made, and Gov-
mentarians. A delegation from the ernment needs to appreciate our 
International Division of the Board 
concerns. This dialogue has served 
recently met high-ranking MEPs at 
both those purposes," said Chief 
the European Parliament in Brussels. Executive, Jon Benjamin. The Board 
Discussions focussed on European 
also joined the latest meeting of the 
Union and European Parliamentary 
Government's cross-department 
efforts and directives to counter 
taskforce on anti-Semitism. The 
racism and anti-Semitism in mem-
task force was formed to implement 
ber states and also a consideration 
recommendations of the All-Parlia-
of the relevant committees and 
mentary Inquiry into Anti-Semitism 
structures that are in place to imple-
ment these policies. Flo Kaufmann, 
Chairman of the Board of Governors Lunch for London Olympics 
of the European Jewish Congress, 
2012 organiser, Richard Sum-
was joined by International Divi-
ray MBE. The Finance & Organi-
sion members Prof Eric Moonman, 
sation Division of the Board hosted 
Alex Faiman and Sidney Assor and 
a lunch for Richard Sumray MBE, 
by Public Affairs Director Elizabeth 
chairman of the London 2012 Fo-
Harris. Of particular interest to the 
rum supporting London's Olympic 
MEPs were the recent findings of 
Games, during which he recounted 
the UK's All-Party Parliamentary 
the dramatic sequence of events that 
Inquiry into Anti-Semitism as well 
led up to London's successful bid 
as the structure, mechanism and 
to host the Olympics. Mr Sumray, a 
advantages of establishing a neutral 
member of the Mayor of London's 
parliamentary body to explore these Cultural Strategy Group and chair 
issues. Flo Kaufmann noted that the 
of Haringey Teaching Primary Care 
"MEPs thanked the Board for keep-
Trust, said that since London won 
ing them informed of our work and 
the bid in July 2005, the focus has 
of our connections in Britain, Eu-
been to make sure that the Olym-
rope, Israel and on the international 
pics capitalises on London's key 
assets as the youngest, most cultur-
Board expresses concerns to 
ally diverse communities in Europe by "creating an infrastructure that 
Home Office over visas for 
is sustainable and leaving behind 
extremists. Board officials met 
permanent improvements for our 
with Home Office counterparts to 
city." Fielding questions on issues 
Totally Outdoors, Totally Ad-
such as security, traffic, regenera-
venturous, The Netzer Venture 
tion, tourism, volunteering oppor-
Day is Totally Fun!
tunities and plans to accommodate London's faith communities, Sumner 
This spring, how would you like to 
explained that space will be created 
spend a day with friends trampling 
to accommodate all five major faith 
through the undergrowth, climbing, 
groups on an egalitarian basis. "My 
and even shooting air-rifles?
commitment is to make this an event to remember for all generations 
If this sounds like your idea of fun, 
and for everyone who participates 
or your kids idea of fun, then come 
in this event", he said. He also said 
to the Netzer Venture Day on 
that a commemoration of the 40th 
Sunday 18th May 2008. This is an 
anniversary of the Munich Olympics 
inter-community event based in the 
massacre would receive proper 
outdoors, running from 1.30pm - 
6pm at Tolmers Scout campsite near Potters Bar. We have run three of 
Board publishes latest com-
these outdoor adventure days and 
munity statistics report; shows 
they are great fun and very exciting. 
potential patterns of Jewish 
Run by experienced Madrichim 
demographic growth in the UK 
(leaders) from RSY-Netzer, the Re-
Co-authored by senior researchers 
form Movements youth movement, 
David Graham and Daniel Vulkan, 
the 8 - 15 year olds will be rambling, 
the report summarises data col-
playing wide games in ancient 
lected on such key statistics as 
woodlands, climbing, building shel-
births, marriages, and deaths during 
ters and shooting air-rifles, all in the 
2006. It reveals that more than 3,300 
safety of this beautiful scout camp-
Jewish babies were born, a third of 
site. If you are coming on Shemesh 
which were to the Charedi or strictly 
Summer camp this will be a great 
Orthodox community. Over recent 
time to meet other campers. Also if 
years the total number of Jewish 
you are not sure, then come and try 
births has been slowly climbing. 
it out and see what we have on offer. 
Significantly, the report found that, contrary to demographic patterns in 
Its Totally Outdoors, Totally Adven-
most Diaspora communities, Brit-
turous and Totally Fun. For more 
ain's Jewish population may be on 
information and an application 
the path to growth after a genera-
form speak to your youth worker or 
tion of contraction. This conclusion 
contact Jon Littman, Youth and Com-
emerges from an analysis of several 
munity Worker for the Movement 
sets of indicators relating particular-
for Reform Judaism: jon.littman@re-
ly to demographic trends in Britain's 
formjudaism.org.uk, 020 8349 5670
Charedi community.
We send our condolences to
Syb Stubbs and family
following the sad loss of Rod beloved husband, father and grandfather
Roberta and Jennifer Byrne, past members of the community
on the sad loss of husband and father, Roy
to the family of Hetty Barrs, one time member of this community
our prayers go to all their families
May their memory be for a blessing 
Syb Stubbs wishes to thank the community for all the help and support 
she has received at this time of the sad loss of her husband Rod.
Aid scheme that continues to op-
erate in the normal way. 
I thought you would be interested 
in some painless ways to give to 
charity, especially if your chosen 
charity is the Thanet & District 
Reform Synagogue!
Special message for members who 
have signed Gift Aid Declarations 
Giving through the Self As-
sessment Return - Nominat-
With the forthcoming change in 
ing a Charity to Receive a 
the level of income tax, make sure 
your payment was received by 5th 
April so that I may make a Gift 
Self Assessment taxpayers are 
Aid claim based on the old, higher 
able use their tax returns to 
donate tax repayments to char-
ity. H M Revenue & Customs has 
Payment of Membership 
given this Synagogue the follow-
ing unique code reference number 
to be quoted on the return. This 
Membership fees are payable on 
scheme is open to members and 
presentation. If you have not yet 
non-members alike. 
done so please send your cheque 
to the Synagogue office as soon as 
The Reference is ‘RAM69AG'
possible. If you wish to pay by in-
ternet banking or standing order 
There is also a ‘carry back' facility let me know so I can give you the 
back scheme so that a taxpayer 
Synagogue's Bank Sort Code and 
who makes a gift to charity using 
Gift Aid can elect to have his/her 
higher rate tax relief carried back 
Remember Us in Your Will
to the previous year of assess-
ment. More information is avail-
It is through the kind generos-
able from the web site address 
ity of previous members that we 
enjoy the use of our Synagogue 
building today. If you have occa-
For further information please 
sion to be writing or amending 
contact your professional tax ad-
your will please do consider re-
visors, look at the HMRC website 
membering this community with 
on the link below, or contact me 
at the Synagogue. I understand 
donations may be made anony-
Ian Smiler 
mously if desired! Note this does 
not replace for the existing Gift 
Did You Know.
That according to the Haggadah, 
it was actually Hillel who created 
the first sandwich (and not the 
Earl of Sandwich who is usually 
credited with the invention).
And that Wikipedia, the popular 
free internet encyclopedia cor-
rectly says that Hillel created the 
first ever sandwich.
That the word Moshe (Moses) only 
occurs once in the Haggadah.
And that Yochabed, Moshe's 
mother, was 130 years old when 
Thanks to Ian and Barbara Smil-
she gave birth to him? (Brings a 
er for advising us of the following:
whole new meaning to the phrase 
‘Geriatric mother', now given to 
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream is now 
any pregnant woman over the age available in Israel in the following 
And for all of you Trekkies out 
there - the character Spock, 
in the television program Star 
Trek, would greet people with the 
Vulcan ritual of greeting. Leon-
ard Nimoy, the Jewish actor who 
played Spock, copied this ritual 
from the handsign used by the 
kohanim when they blessed the 
Bernard Malamint 
Berry Pr'i Hagafen 
And finally a thought from 
Golda Meir:
Let me tell you the one thing I 
have against Moses. He took us 
forty years into the desert in order 
It should be noted that all of 
to bring us to the one place in the these flavors come in either a cup 
Middle East that has no oil! 
From the Reform Judaism 
the Charter as the foundation for a 
peaceful, just and sustainable global 
society will be sought. 
Proof that Jews can change the Rabbi Amswych commented: "For 
real change to take root, this must 
be seen as the beginning of a ‘slow-burn' process which must be kin-
Bournemouth Borough Council has 
dled over several years rather than 
become the first UK district council 
a firework which burns itself out in a 
to adopt the Earth Charter - which 
few seconds".
offers a foundation for a peaceful, just and sustainable global soci-
Rabbi Newman added: "the Bourne-
ety – thanks to the efforts of Reform 
mouth decision is a major milestone 
rabbis, Neil Amswych and Jeffrey 
in the fight against climate change 
and for a just society. It shows that, if they follow the prophetic vision 
The deputation at which the deci-
offered by their tradition, Jews really 
sion was made took place last month and was the culmination of a proc-
can be a light unto the world."
ess which began almost a year ago when Rabbi Amswych invited the Director of the Earth Charter in the 
UK, Rabbi Jeffrey Newman, to an Inter-faith meeting attended by 70 
Mazel Tov to Benna Jane and 
local clergy and lay leaders, repre-
Daniel Goldman on their recent 
sentatives of most of the religious 
groups in the local area. Their enthu-siastic interest in the Earth Charter and its inspiring vision and ethical framework encouraged Rabbi Am-swych to take it to the Council.
It is hoped now that in a series of meetings over the next year spe-cific issues of waste and recycling, energy reduction and conservation, transport, biodiversity and eco-tourism - all issues of interest to the Council and covered by the Earth Charter principles - may be dis-cussed and objectives agreed. Most of all, the involvement of local peo-ple and organisations in the work of 
Holocaust Memorial Day Janu-
was a short service, conducted by 
The Reverend Luke Dean, who is the Assistant Curate at St Laurence Team 
This year the National Holocaust 
Ministry. Prayers were also read 
Memorial Day fell on Sunday the 
by Rabbi Cliff Cohen and David 
27th of January. In the UK this day 
Gradus, and Godfrey Fischer sung ‘ 
commemorates victims of past and 
Shema Kolenu'. After the service we 
more recent atrocities from around 
all retired to the Council Chambers 
the world. To us as Jews there is the 
for a reception hosted by the Mayor. 
special significance of the Nazi mur-dering of six million of our brethren. 
In the afternoon Barbara & I went to 
Many of us can establish a direct 
an event in Deal, I estimate approxi-
family connection to relatives who 
mately 20 – 30 persons attended this 
perished, and even for those who 
event, including Elizabeth, part-
cannot, there is the probability that 
ner of our John Ullmann who sadly 
relatives from a previous generation 
passed away last year. We three 
or two with whom family connection 
were the only attendees from either 
have been lost were unfortunate vic-
of the Thanet Communities. Also 
tims. My father's family comes from 
in attendance was Gwyn Prosser, 
Poland, and I know of cousins, aunts 
the MP for Dover & Deal. This event 
& uncles who were in Warsaw when 
commenced with a short service 
the Germans invaded. I am a twin 
held next to a Commemorative Tree 
and I know there were others in the 
in the garden of St George's Church, 
family left behind in Eastern Europe 
lead by Canon Robert Lunnon. 
Wreaths were laid by the Chairman of Dover District Council, Councillor 
In the UK there was a programme of 
Bernard Butcher, the Mayor of Deal 
events spread throughout the coun-
Councillor Jim Cronk, and Elizabeth 
try. In our little corner of Kent there 
in memory of John, who was sent 
were two – in Ramsgate and in Deal. 
away to England by his parents as a 
My wife Barbara and I attended 
result of the Kindertransport pro-
gramme. After this we retired to the Council Chambers for presentations 
The day started in Ramsgate, at a 
and a reception. Two sixth form stu-
service hosted by the Mayor, Coun-
dents from Castle Community Col-
cillor Steve Ward, and held in Al-
lege gave a talk with photographs 
bion Gardens. For January we were 
about their visit to Auschwitz, which 
fortunate, warm winter sunshine. I 
was very moving. There was also a 
estimate approximately 50 - 60 peo-
presentation about recent atroci-
ple attended the event, members 
ties in Rwanda. Last year John spoke 
of our community, Margate Hebrew 
at this event and we remembered 
Congregation and friends from the 
him. We concluded with fair trade 
wider world. Also in attendance was 
tea, and a display of photographs of 
Ramsgate's MP, Dr Ladyman. There 
Jewish victims showing the depriva-
tion of life in the ghettos and camps. It is nearly 20 years after my visit Ordinary people, put into extraordi-
and with the passage of time the city 
nary circumstances. 
has been united, and many physi-cal reminders have gone. What is 
These terrible events happened 
certain to me is that in another time, 
only a lifetime ago, in what might 
another place, similar events could 
have considered a cultured civilized happen again, and for this reason 
society, just like our own. I have not 
it is important to educate all gen-
visited any of the camps, perhaps 
erations with this simple message. 
one day I will. However, I did visit 
NEVER AGAIN. Sadly, it seems not 
Berlin in December 1989, just at 
everyone is listening. 
the time the wall crumbled. It was a place of living history, and this 
Ian Smiler
visit provided me with a real, almost tangible link between the past and present. Berlin was still a divided city, and to get there the aircraft had to descend to 10,000 feet and fly through a military corridor across 
East German airspace. Many of the trappings emphasising that this 
place was still under military control were still in place. I visited the Rus-
Please take care not to park in front 
sian Sector of the city, and saw the 
of our neighbours' driveways. Some 
wall. I also went to what is now the 
entrances do not have drop-down 
Jewish Community Centre, built on 
kerbs but are, nevertheless, access 
the site, and incorporating ruins of 
entrances, especially 264 Margate 
a former Synagogue. There were 
Road (diagonally opposite) and 297, 
times when I felt shivers run down 
my spine, thinking of what may well have happened in my current loca-tion as I travelled on the railway, or 
visited former Jewish owned shops. From this city orders were issued to wipe out all members of a specific 
The Imam of the Margate Mosque, 
religion, wherever they were, includ-
Union Crescent, Margate, invites you 
ing all the children, irrespective of 
to see what happens in the Mosque; 
whether pure or mixed parentage. 
to experience how Muslims pray; to 
This in my view differentiates the 
ask questions and learn about Islam.
Holocaust from all other atrocities, however heinous they are. 
Open afternoons are on the first Saturday afternoon of each month from 1pm to 4pm
Care in your
own home…
Caring passionately 
about your health 
and welfare
Our services include
Help getting up 
or going to bed
Preparing meals
and ironing
and bathing
Cleaning the home
a realistic alternative to
Call on: 01843 570 638
Bluebird Care (Canterbury & Thanet)
161 King Street, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 8PN
Tel: 01843 570 638 Fax: 08452 992 395 
"good old fashioned service"
Source: http://tdrs.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/Spring-2008.pdf
   Drug Therapies  There are many prescription drugs available to treat MS. There are disease modifying drugs that affect the long-term course of MS and other medications to treat a particular symptom.  Disease Modifying Treatments (DMTs) There are number of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) which can reduce the frequency and severity of clinical relapses. The National Institution for Care Excellence (NICE) published guidelines in October 2014 for the management of multiple sclerosis. In these guidelines a relapse can be diagnosed by a GP or neurologist if: The person with MS has developed new symptoms or has a worsening of existing symptoms, and these symptoms have lasted for more than 24 hours in the absence of infection of any other cause after a stable period of a least 1 month. The following DMTs are available for treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis, CIS andwho are still experiencing relapses, and where these relapses are the predominant cause of their increasing disability :- Avonex - a weekly injection into the muscle. 
    International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents 23S1 (2004) S67–S74 Bacterial biofilm formation on urologic devices and heparin coating as preventive strategy Peter Tenke , Claus R. Riedl , Gwennan Ll. Jones , Gareth J. Williams , David Stickler , Elisabeth Nagy  a Department of Urology, Jahn Ferenc South-Pest Hospital, H-1204 Budapest, Köves u. 2-4, Hungary b Department of Urology, Thermenklinikum Baden, Baden, Austria