To further progress Jewish life in the UK, The Board is delighted to announce that it is working on a new project that seeks to forecast the needs for the Jewish community over the next 100 years.

Jewish 100, looks to the year 2108 and then takes a step back to see how Jewish life arrived at the state it will be in.

At this time, initial research is being undertaken by Jane Cohen and results are set to be delivered early 2009.

“According to initial estimates, there will be 1.7million Jews in the country, a slight decline on the current figures,” said Jane Cohen. “But this is only an estimate, we need to do some real forecasting into the future.”

A budget of £3.8m has been allocated for the work involved.

“It is not just a question of sticking a finger at the wind to make predictions,” Jane Cohen added. “It is about being 100% accurate and with a £3.8m budget, I can make sure it is correct.”

Board puts Yiddish on British Speaking Clock
Voiced by Larry David and sponsored by Bonn Matzo Company

The Board of Guardians of British Jews is delighted to announce the launch of the world’s first Yiddish language speaking clock service voiced by TV star Larry David as the final part of the 350th anniversary of Jews being readmitted back to England by oliver Cromwell.

Since deregulation of the speaking clock in 1996, British people have been able to dial and find out the time of the day in a choice of 12 languages including French, German, Italian, Somali, Polish and Urdu.

In 1998, The Board under guidance by then president Hannah Cohen launched a petition to get Yiddish included in the language choice.

“It has taken eight long years, but after much lobbying of the British communication regulatory authority, we now have Yiddish included in the speaking clock service and as part of our celebration of 350 years of being back in the country,” said Harry Greenberg, president of The Board. “We are delighted that Larry David is to be the voice of the speaking clock.”

The service which costs 10p a call is sponsored in part by the Bonn Matzo Company which has helped to keep the cost of the call at half the price of other similar services. “We are also honoured that Bonn is able to support this project,” Mr Greenberg added.

Before each time is read out, a message says “The time sponsored by Bonn Matzo is…”

For his part, Larry David was at first surprised at being approached to be the Yiddish voice British Jews call when needing to know the time.

“I didn’t know British people pay to hear the time of the day, but when I heard about the project to put Yiddish on the speaking clock, I know I had to be involved,” said Mr David. “My grandfather was from London, albeit, his boat docked there on its way to America, but I have always had the deepest respect not just for Britain but for its Jews and in honour of its 350th anniversary of Jews being readmitted back to England, this is something I can be involved in.”

Following recent incidents, The Board of Guardians of British Jews has decided to remove entertainer Sacha Baron Cohen from its honorary executive as well as fining him £9,000 and banning him from visiting any UK synagogue for six months.

The decision which was decided by The Board’s Surrey Beth Din takes affect from November 23 2006. Mr Baron Cohen can appeal the decision and has until October 23 to do so.

“We gave Mr Baron Cohen an informal warning over six months ago about the Borat character and how it is causing problems with the Kazakhstan government and that this is bringing major embarrassment to the Jewish community,” said Harry Greenberg, president of The Board. “Mr Baron Cohen ignored our letters and phonecalls and therefore after consultation with our rabbis, we have taken steps to exclude Mr Baron Cohen and let people know he is not connected with The Board and has been banned from setting foot into any synagogue for six months.”

The Board had hoped Mr Baron Cohen would stop performing as Borat but has not. Indeed, since The Board contacted him, Mr Baron Cohen in an act of defiance has actually increased his awareness of the character.

“We can only assume that Mr Baron Cohen is doing this as a total mark of disrespect to The Board,” said Board external director Emily Rosen. “He insults not only people from Kazakhstan, but also members of his own community. This we cannot accept lightly and therefore the steps we have taken should ensure that Mr Baron Cohen ceases to insult anyone.”

The move by The Board was in response to recent comments the US-based Anti-Defamation League has made about the harm Mr Barn Cohen is causing to US Jews.

“We have been informed that number of Jews in America are outraged by the antics of a British Jew, therefore in response to this, we have assured our US counterparts that on no UK Jew can cause such incidents in America and are grateful to the ADL for their support in this matter,” Mr Greenberg added.

Following his recent conversion to Judaism, the Board is delighted to announce that Mel Gibson is to honour the Board by becoming a vice-president.

Mr Gibson, 50, recently celebrated his barmitzvah under the supervision of Rabbi Joe Levine of Hendon in north west London.

“We are delighted that Mel has decided to embrace the Jewish faith,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Despite American media trying to imply his is anti-semitic, Mel is a true lover of all Jews and the Jewish faith. He has been undergoing a conversion for the past 24 months and we are delighted to announce he has embrace the faith.”

The Board wishes to express its full support to Mr Gibson as he deals with the current issue of being framed in the United States and is fully supportive of him.

“Mel has said he wishes to move to London and follow other Jewish stars such as Dustin Hoffman and Richard Dreyfuss who now call London for home. London is a warm community for all Jews and Mel will certainly find a welcome here.”

Following research by The Board into Britain’s Jewish Goth community, west London’s Brentford Synagogue is to be the first in the country to host weekly Goth services.

According to the 2005 poll, 8% of Britain’s Jews between the ages of 13 and 35 identified with Goth culture and music.

With 375,000 Jewish Goths in the UK and 120,000 living within four miles of Brentford Synagogue, Rabbi Kent Levin is offering services relevant to the needs of the Goths.

“When I first came to London in the early 80s, I was aware of the Goth music scene and actually in to it myself and indeed I am still. What always stuck me were the huge numbers of Jews involved in it,” Rabbi Levin said. “So when the Board did some research, it made perfect sense to help Goths with their Jewish needs.”

A weekly alternative shabbat service on a Tuesday evening aims to attract a packed audience of 500 into the synagogue with an overflow service taking place at the nearby Brentford Football Club social bar which has capacity for an additional 300 people.

“If we had the shabbat service on Saturday itself, we would be unable to broadcast it,” said Rabbi Levin. “This is about being both alternative and relevant for young people and by having shabbat services on a Tuesday we can do that by broadcasting it and teaming up with the local football team.”

“Offering relevant services is something we have been trying to do for years,” said Rabbi Barry Goldberg of the Alliance of Jewish Rabbis Trade Union. “I commend Rabbi Levin for what he is doing and hope to see other synagogues offer similar services to its local community.”

The Board has expressed its concern to French authorities over the way they have handled its Bird Flu crisis by denying members of the Jewish community chicken soup.

Since announcing that 3.12% of its country is infected by Bird Flu, the French government has banned all Jews from consuming chicken soup, though non-Jews are still allowed to buy and make it.

“We are appalled that France has reacted this way to the crisis,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “They are the only country to ban its Jewish citizens from having chicken soup.”

Though other countries have had bird flu, the Board is rather concerned why the French have taken its anti-chicken soup stance against Jews.

“Why chicken soup for Jews and not chicken soup for non-Jews,” Mr Greenberg added. “Could it have anything to do with the fact that chicken soup and Jews go together?”

The Board is in close co-operation with its respective Jewish French colleagues and will be organising a rally to support them in order to get chicken soup back on the menu.

“We will be having a rally on March 26 where 450,000 Jews from across London will gather outside the French embassy,” commented Board communications director Susan Jacobs. “We cannot accept or tolerate denial of our basic eating rights.”

The Board of Guardians of British Jews has once again called on McDonald’s to stop broadcasting a TV commercial that shows a bagel that contains non-kosher products within it, following a record number of complaints from members of the UK Jewish community.

It has also told McDonald’s to take off its menu a bagel that features bacon and if it fails to do so, a boycott of McDonald’s and associated brands (including Coca Cola) that are sold at its restaurants will be started.

In early 2005, The Board was informed of a TV advertising campaign that featured bacon within the bagel. At the time, McDonald’s were notified of the deep concern the Board has of taking such a recognised image eaten by Jews and now associated with a non-kosher product.

McDonald’s did not respond to The Board’s requests and now has even increased its range of non-kosher products going into the bagel.

“While we are not offended by neutral products going into a bagel such as jam or cream cheese, putting pork-sausage or bacon in it is something we cannot accept, that coupled with the recent advertising campaign by McDonald’s shows how much disregard they have for the feelings of the Jewish community,” said Board director of communal services Jacob Bloom.

Within a week of the McDonald’s sausage bagel commercial going on television, The Board had 125 letters as well as 3,400 emails from Jews across the country expressing their concern at seeing a bagel being used in such a way.

“We have already notified McDonald’s of our concern last year, yet one year on and they not only continue with their old product range, but also add a new product that they know will carry on showing total disrespect for the Jewish community and also for the bagel,” said Board president Harry Greenberg.

“We are giving McDonald’s an opportunity now to resolve the matter by removing any pig product from the bagel and if they fail on this occasion, we will start the boycott,” Mr Greenberg added.

8 January 2006 - In the Board of Guardians of British Jews semi-annual Honours to the Jewish community, which is part of the Queen’s honours, the Board is delighted to recognise members of the British Jewish community for their contribution to work done by inside and outside the community.

Among those who have been honoured are former Conservative leader Michael Howard, Professor Emily Howard and actor Matt Lucas.

“All these Jewish people have one thing in common, they have made a major contribution not to just the work of the Board but also to help the Jewish community,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “These honours recognise both the well known and the not so well known of the community.”

The Winter awards announced today will be given out at a gala ceremony attended by the Queen on March 23 2006.

The Board’s Honours which are recognised by all sections of the Jewish community were created in 1981 following a meeting between then Board director John Joseph and Queen Elizabeth II. It was then decreed by her majesty that the Jewish community should be allowed to have its Honours during the Queen’s Honours.

Since then, there has been both Winter Honours and Spring Honours.

For Winter 2006, the following Honours are to be given.

Professor Emily Howard - Since 1993, Professor Howard has been head of research at the Jewish Research department of London and Herts University. Her report, “Jews in the Iron Age” which looked at the Jewish contribution to Britain’s Iron Age helped to understand how the first Jews arrived in Britain from Egypt.

Malcolm Wise - Community volunteer, Mr Wise has been a regular helper to the Board funded Jewish Guide Dogs Home. The Jewish Guide Dogs Home helps provide guide dogs to members of the Jewish community where the dogs are specifically trained to deal with part of the Jewish lifestyle which include getting to synagogue. Mr Wise helps to train the dogs and since 1972 has trained over 600.

Matt Lucas - Actor Matt Lucas has risen to popularity with his TV partner David Walliams with the popular BBC TV show Little Britain. Matt himself has been active in the work of the Board as a supporter and hosted the 2004 annual Board dinner which raised £530,000

Michael Howard - The former Conservative leader has been instrumental in supporting the Board and has been a director of it on a number of occasions, both when the Conservative Party were in power and as in opposition. As a Board director, Mr Howard has been on a number of committees and takes a keen interest in the Board’s sports division.

The Board is delighted to announce that the Queen will declare December 27, National Chanukah day and make it a public holiday for all.

The move comes after 18 years of campaigning by the Board for the British government to recognise that Chanukah is a Jewish festival.

“Given the Xmas is a public holiday in recognition of one of the most famous Jews of all time and indeed Easter is also a holiday in honour of one of the most famous Jews of all time, we feel that Chanukah is not just a festival for Jews but for all and should be part of Britisih society,” said Board president Harry Greenberg.

The Board feels by introducing Chanukah to the masses it can then be experienced by everyone and important issues of going green can also be learnt.

“Chanukah is not just for Jews, it’s for everybody and the message of Chanukah of how strategic planning can help you overcome anything is one that are proud to share,” Mr Greenberg added. “It is about how with just a little bit of something, you can make it last long. I guess you can say, it is a very green and eco friendly festival. How one day worth of oil lasted for eight days is a question everyone asks and today, Jewish scientists are close to discovering how that happened. We hope what we find will help solve the world oil problems.”

As part of National Chanukah Day, the Queen will be lighting a menorah in Buckingham Palace.

The Board of Guardians of British Jews is to issue a small claims notice at the Reading Beth Din (Jewish law court) against writers David Baddiel and Ben Elton over outstanding fees they have not paid to the Board.

Baddiel and Elton are two of the 1300 people who annually try and avoid paying the Board levy to support its work and the Board will now start to highlight those who refuse to pay.

Payments to the Board from Jewish men are expected to start from the age of 13, when in Jewish law they are responsible for their own mitzvahs (deeds) and one mitzvah is to make the annual Board donation.

“When both David and Ben were barmitzvah, they made an agreement in hebrew to pay the fee. For five years after his barmitzvah, David paid and for Ben it was just two years. Despite constant reminders, both of them have failed to continue with payments and therefore we have decided to claim a full claim for all payments. We are not prepared to write this off,” said Board president Harry Greenberg.

Both Baddiel and Elton were prepared to do their barmitzvah and accepted their passage from boy to man and therefore they should accept their full responsibility to make this payment.

Despite constant reminders, both men have ignored the requests to pay or have written back making various excuses.

In the case of David Baddiel, he wrote on 2 March 2003:

“Why are you hounding me? As far as I am aware, I did not agree to this and why didn’t my rabbi translate this piece of my barmitzvah into English? I’m not paying. So sue me and I’ll see you in synagogue about this.”

In the case of Baddiel, he currently owes the Board £3254.32 and in the case of Elton this is £5432.02 (both amounts include interest and reminder notices).

To help support the Board in its collection of fees, it is has recently appointed Edward Jacobs as its chief collection officer. Mr Jacobs, 42 from Bushey, Hertfordshire is a former director of the TV Licensing where he was responsible for collecting overdue payments.

“We are grateful to have Edward join as and to help support the work we do. We are confident that Edward and his team will help increase the money coming into the Board by dealing with those who constantly refuse to pay,” added Board president Harry Greenberg.

Mr Jacobs takes up his new role from December 12 2005.

The UK’s Jewish community has welcomed plans to introduce a new festival into the Jewish calendar.

Yom Yom, which means Day Day will be the first new Jewish festival in 2300 years and is being launched initially in the UK. If it proves popular, it will be introduced to other Jewish communities around the world.

“We are delighted that Yom Yom is coming to the UK first,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Our community will welcome this wonderful day that celebrates the Day and all things associated with it.”

While the Jewish community has always marked special events such as a new moon and a new year, the new Yom Yom aims to show the importance of what people can do in a day.

“Yom Yom will be a joyful day, it will be about celebrating what a great day the day is and how each of us has a part to play in making the day good, not just or ourselves, but for others,” Mr Greenberg added.

The theme for Yom Yom will be Spread A Little Happiness written by Vivian Ellis.

“We will be translating the lyrics into Hebrew so that it can be sung at every synagogue,” Mr Greenberg added. “The song is a classic uplifting melody and something that can unite the Jewish community together on the day.”

Welcoming the introduction of Yom Yom, the World Chief Rabbi, Morris Elias said: “I am pleased to see the UK Jewish community has come together on the Yom Yom project. We were looking for a Jewish community that is united together and with the UK community we have found one that works as one.”

The UK will test Yom Yom for a period of three years. Once that is over, members of the World Jewish Council will then decide how it should be adopted as a Jewish festival across the world.

The Board of Guardians of British Jews is to support a campaign by the British Jewish Actors and Performer Association (BJAPA) to raise awareness of the casting of non-Jews in clearly defined Jewish parts both on screen and also on stage.

The first “Put Jews back in the Spotlight” campaign will start on October 26 to highlight the lack of Britsh Jewish actors getting lead roles in the London production of Mel Brooks musical The Producers.

The British Jewish Actors and Performers Association which was founded by Bernie Winters in 1974 and is currently chaired by Dan Stein. It was formed by merging two groups, Anglo Jewish Performers and British Jewish Actors Society both of which were established in the late 19th century under Royal approval from Queen Victoria who was concerned herself when Jews were not allowed to perform lead roles in Yiddish theatre.

“We have been getting very concerned over the past few years as members have been contacting us and saying they have not been getting clearly defined Jewish roles,” said Dan Stein, chairman of The British Jewish Actors and Performers Association. “When we looked more into this we were shocked to discover that major productions such as Mel Brooks’ The Producers have yet to cast Jewish people into the lead roles despite the two lead characters being Jewish.”

“We are as concerned as the BJAPA and its members,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Queen Victoria signed and supported the Jewish performers act of 1892 and for years it has been respected. We therefore call on those casting Jewish roles for stage and screen to make sure they comply with the rule. As we have shown in the past, we will not hesitate to take appropriate legal and boycott action against those who flaunt the law.”

The move by the BJAPA follows that of a similar campaign in the United States when Jewish performers raised concern over the way Jason Biggs kept on being offered leading Jewish roles in films such as American Pie and Woody Allen’s Anything Else. This was dispite Biggs not being Jewish or having any Jewish connection.

Earlier this year, the New York Jewish Actors Collective staged a 14 day protest outside the theatre where Biggs was the lead Jewish character in Modern Orthodox.

Members of the New York Jewish Actors Collective (NYJAC) are advising the BJAPA and how to organise direct action.

“The Biggs situation was resolved by the hard work of the NYJAC and we are grateful for their help to British Jews,” said BJAPA chairman Dan Stein. “If we need to also organise a 14 day protest outside The Producers or even a 73 day protest, we will do it too.”

The Board of Guardians of British Jews is to issue an edict to withdraw all support for the Labour Party following Wednesday’s anti-Semitic attack by Labour’s self-styled suited and booted brigade on an 82-year-old Jewish man at its annual conference.

“We were shocked by the scene when Walter Wolfgang said ‘nonsense’ during Jack Straw’s speech and was hurled out. What the Labour Party failed to realise was that Mr Wolfgang was speaking in Yiddish and ‘nonsense’ actually means, ’speak up’,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Mr Wolfgang is a senior citizen who could not hear what was being said and only commented in Yiddish, his first language to ask Mr Straw to talk a bit louder.”

Until the Board gets a personal apology from the Labour Party attack on the whole Jewish community, it will issue a rabbinical edict which will be led by joint chief Rabbis Sir Jonathan Sacks of the Unity Movement and Rabbi Beryl Cohen of the Independent Synagogue Society.

“Our first withdrawal will be Lord Levy who will refuse to offer any help in fundraising for the Labour Party,” Mr Greenberg said. “We have also called on Peter Mandelson to work part-time and go on a work slow protest.”

The Board of Guardians is also calling on the Labour Party to be committed to equal understanding of languages and to treat Yiddish like it treats other languages.

“Had Mr Wolfgang said it in French or Italian, I doubt very much if he would have been thrown out, but just because he said it in Yiddish, everyone took it as meaning something else,” Mr Greenberg. “We call on the Labour Party to now include Yiddish in all its forms of communication.”

The Board of Guardians of British Jews has received instructions from entertainer Rachel Stevens to represent her in a Jewish court of law in order to get an apology from television presenters Richard McCourt and Dominic Wood known as “Dick” and “Dom".

On 10 September, Rachel was seen on the BBC children’s show Dick and Dom In Da Bungalow in which she felt intimidated by the presenters and decided she did not want to continue appearing on the show. Refusing to be “gunged” after being told it contained unkosher ingredients, Rachel used the agreed stop word “oy” but the two presenters Dick and Dom tried to continue with the “gunging".

“Rachel came to us and when we heard what happened, we were truly stunned,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Never in our 38 years of existence have we had such a blatant abuse of one of our most beloved entertainers. Not only was the ‘gunge’ made from an unkosher animal which we understand consisted of Emu fat mixed with other ingredients, but the pre-recorded show went out on a Saturday morning which Rachel never agreed to and implied that Rachel was prepared to work on the Sabbath, which quite clearly is not true. Even after the show, McCourt and Wood mocked Rachel which is unacceptable.”

Under her real name, Rachel Steinetski, the Board has also sought guidance from Chief Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks. “He has advised us that Rachel has a case somewhat like that of Bernie Winters in 1972 when broadcaster Anglia TV misled him over eating a sandwich which turned out not to be kosher,” said Board head of legal affairs, Miriam Lee. “The then Chief Rabbi, Lord Immanuel Jakobovits issued a powerful edict which got Bernie the apology he deserved.”

The edict in 1972 required anyone Jewish working at Anglia to resign. Over 420 people including the broadcaster’s sales director as well as actors and actresses left to join other broadcasters. It also resulted in the third series of Anglia’s Tales of the Unexpected being cancelled.

“The Chief Rabbi showed he could do it then, and the Chief Rabbi today has said an edict is a possibility unless Rachel gets an apology and a commitment from Richard McCourt and Dominic Wood to stop their verbal and on-screen attacks against her. If it means that Jews at the BBC resign en masse, then that is a clear possibility as once an edict is issued by the Chief Rabbi, every Jew must follow it.”

The court case is set for November 8 at Highbury Beth Din (Court of Law) in London.

A new Jewish TV station on Freeview, Sky and NTL is to be launched under the auspices of The Board of Guardians of British Jews.

Jew4, a partnership between Channel 4 and The Board, goes on air from October 29 and features a variety of programming from music shows and news to a sitcom and movies.

The community managed station will also feature a number of professional broadcasters and entertainers including: Lionel Blair, Matt Lucas, The Chief Rabbi, Sir Adam Harris, Lord Bloom of Hampstead and Rachel Stevens.

Rachel Stevens will present the weekly Jewish music show, while Lionel Blair will be the host of Come Klezmer Dancing, a dance show with a klezmer twist.

Chief Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks will present Thought for the Week while Sacha Baron Cohen will present a daily cooking show - Oy Kosher.

“We are delighted to have such a talented team onboard for Jew4,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Our mix of showbiz, news, culture and religion we believe will have appeal both inside and outside the Jewish community.”

Since Channel 4 expanded its channels to include E4 and More4, the new Jew4 comes as broadcasters look to expand their range of programming aimed at diverse community groups.

The Board which already has a stake in four Jewish radio stations across the UK believes TV is a medium to reach out to Britain’s three million Jews.

“We have been approached by other TV broadcasters but Channel 4 made the best offer to us,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “As a joint venture, we both help each other, Channel 4 with the transmission and us supplying the programming.”

A penguin that has grown to symbolise the friendship between Jews and Germans is to be adopted by the Board of Guardians of British Jews.

Pincus the Penguin, who lives in Berlin Zoo is a popular visit for many Germans both Jewish and not who have been mesmerised by Pincus’ Jewish-like eating habits.

Unlike other Penguins who are fed unkosher fish and seafood, Pincus will only eat kosher fish.

Since coming to Berlin Zoo in 1999, Pincus has been a popular draw for the crowds who watch in fascination as the penguin rejects the non-kosher fish and scrambles towards the kosher delights.

“Pincus came to us from Warsaw Zoo as part of the 1999 European Zoo Exchange and when we first started to feed him prawns and swordfish, he didn’t take any interest,” said Berlin Zoo director Otto Ziller. “Someone at Warsaw mentioned Pincus was special and was always picky with his food, so we had some salmon and gave it to him which he enjoyed.”

Over time, it become apparent the Pincus was no ordinary penguin. “One day a Jewish couple from Florida came to the zoo and were eating a smoked salmon bagel and Pincus was hovering around them while the other penguins were in another part of the penguin area. One of the staff noticed this and after some tests, we discovered that Pincus was drawn towards the smoked salmon.”

Since finding a love for Jewish food, Pincus has a diet consisting of such delights as gefilta fish (chopped and mixed fish with carrot and made into golf ball sized portions), smoked salmon and schmaltz herring.

“The Board is delighted to be associated with Pincus and the Zoo which has started to make the Jewish diet and kosher food better known in Germany,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “We have decided that as a symbol of unity, the Board wishes to be associated with Pincus and we will be featuring his name and image across the Board from our letterheads through to the annual New Year appeal.”

The Chief Rabbi, Sir Jonathan Sacks has decided to resign from The Board in order to develop his writing and other freelance opportunities.

The move will also allow Sir Jonathan to keep the money he has been making from his writing and books which previously was donated by him as Tzedakah - charity to the Jewish and non-Jewish community.

In his time, he has donated over £150,322 from the royalties of his books and other projects in which he has been paid and in which he has always accounted to the community.

“Sir Jonathan is a great example of a man who is committed to the community and has served us well, especially with his ever giving nature to all. We are sorry to see Sir Jonathan leave the Board as one of our members, but appreciate his honest approach that he wishes to develop his own personal projects including additional writing columns in national newspapers and a new book,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “I look forward to being one of the first to read the book Sir Jonathan has been telling us about for years.”

“When I joined The Board way back in 1974, I never realised how much it would grow and what a wonderful group it has become, but now, 30 years later, it is time to move on,” said Sir Jonathan. “It is also time for me to start work on a novel that has been in my head for the last decade and I can only do this by stepping down form current commitments to focus on my creative side.”

The Board of Guardians of British Jews has raised concern over the way a Virgin Trains poster is currently being displayed in a popular Jewish area.

The poster located in the lower end of Golders Green Road in north West London and directly opposite a parade of Jewish and kosher shops shows large images of sausages.

“We have had over 125 phonecalls since this poster went up,” said Board director of communications Shirley Bloom. “People have been concerned over the image which looks like that of a pork sausage. Had it been a beef sausage, we wouldn’t have such an issue, but being pork, it brings memories of when McDonalds had a poster of a bagel with bacon inside it and displayed that to the Jewish community. We were offended then and we are offended now. It is not right or proper that large images of traife products are blatantly shown in such a vile manner in what is a large and popular area with the Jewish community.”

When the Board contacted Virgin Trains, a spokesperson refused to reveal the source of the meat on the poster. “These sausages are for the traditional British breakfast we serve, we also offer vegetarian options.”

The Board has now issued a formal letter to Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson in which it asked for the removal of the poster and a clarification as to the meat content. The Board has further suggested that, like his airline Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Trains should also offer pre-booked kosher meals on the train.

“The Jewish community has always had good dialogue with Sir Richard Branson and his businesses, ever since we raised concern over the way in which his artist Sid Vicious used to wear a Nazi emblem,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Sid apologised to us in 1977 and used part of his proceeds from My Way to set up the Sid Vicious Jewish Music Foundation which to this day is still supported by the music industry including Sir Richard. We don’t know what has happened with the train poster going up, but it needs to go down.”

The Board is delighted to announce plans to open up a Jewish Scottish Board division.

The new Board of Guardians of Scottish Jews will represent the interests of the nearly 1.4million Jews who live in Scotland and like the London-based British Board will be the only voice to speak on behalf of all Scottish Jews.

In a voting process, 93% of all Scottish Jews agreed that they will allow the Board to represent them.

The annual Jewish tax duty which goes to the Board of £79.40 will now be split 90% going to Scottish Jewish Board and 10% to the national Board. The additional money raised will benefit a number of Scottish based projects including: Kosher Haggis Enterprises, Jewish Kiltmakers, Association of Jewish Bagpipe Players and the Glatt Kosher Wild Salmon Company.

As over 50% of all Scottish Jews live in Dundee, the headquarters of the division will be based in Dundee with additional regional offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Falkirk. A special opening event is planned for August 15 2005 in which local Jewish and international Jewish dignitaries will be taking part including Dame Shirley Greenberg, Warren Mitchell, Barry Cohen and Jacob Goldberg.

“I am pleased to see that after ten years of planning, we now have a dedicated Board of Guardians of Scottish Jews,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “I am also happy to announce that Sally Jacobs has accepted our invitation to be the president of the Scottish Board.”

The campaign to set up a Scottish Board was first started by politician Malcolm Rifkind who was previously based in Scotland before becoming a London MP for Kensington and Chelsea.

“In 1995 I was approached by a group of Jewish people living in Dundee who felt that a Jewish Board in Scotland was important to them. Since then this issue has been important to me and I felt it was an important subject to raise with the London-based Board,” said Malcolm Rifkind. “It has taken alot of campaigning and work, but we are now there. Well done to everyone involved.”

“Scottish Jews are grateful to the help and support of the Board and Malcolm Rifkind in setting up our Board of Guardians of Scottish Jews, we have lived in Scotland for over 700 years and now with our Board we can better represent the interests and needs of our community,” said Sally Jacobs.

Plans for other regional Boards including Wales and Northern Ireland are being considered following consultation with members of those communities.

The Board has agreed to a test project which has put a cash machine in a tombstone at Chester Jewish Cemetery.

Following the death of Morris Gorski earlier this year, he put in his will a clause that his heirs would only be entitled to get their share of his money by visiting his grave in River Path Road on a weekly basis.

Mr Gorski was a popular businessman who owned a number of businesses including property company Gorski Holdings plc, the UK’s largest builder of three bedroom flats and apartments.

Working with ATM North Europe Services, the cash machine will allow his heirs to collect up to £750 a time when they turn up. A special debit card has been issued to 25 of Mr Gorski’s heirs which they can use at the graveside as well as being able to use elsewhere.

“When Uncle Morris said he was going to do this, we thought he was joking,” said niece Jane Gould. “But when we were read the will, we soon realised he wasn’t. I would visit his grave anyway, but I guess Uncle Morris wanted to make sure that other family members got a worthwhile incentive to visit him.”

According to the Board, should the test project involving Mr Gorski prove popular, other people will get the opportunity to have cash machines in their tombstones.

“As the forward thinking Jewish group we are, we do like to consider all ideas and when Mr Gorski was alive he asked us if this is something we would consider for him,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “We listened and thought it was a wonderful idea especially if he felt it was a way to encourage family members to visit him. We consulted with members of the Board who agreed that when the time came to honour Mr Gorski’s request we would.”

Current Board of Guardians of British Jews President Harry Greenberg has been re-elected as President of Britain’s leading Jewish group.

The voting which took place after the Jewish Sabbath on Saturday 7 May from 10pm to 2am on Sunday 8 May saw 25% of the Jewish population voting. The highest number of voters since the Board implemented an election process in 1971.

The election results in full as follows:

Harry Greenberg 52%
Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks 20%
Morris Beckman 10%
Sally Cohen 10%

spoilt votes: 8%

“We are delighted that so many people came out to vote,” said Board election coordinator Robert Bloom. “As a democratic organisation that represents all Jews, we take pride in making our election as easy as possible for people to take part in.”

Voters were offered the opportunity to vote in polling booths across the country including synagogues, community centres and even restaurants.

“I wish to express my thanks to the community for getting out and supporting me in this election,” said Harry Greenberg. “The Jewish community knows I have the passion and commitment to turn ideas into reality and to make things happen. I also wish well the other contestants in what was a long hard fought battle and look forward to working with them as well.”

The Board of Guardians is delighted to announce that four individuals will be campaigning to become the next President of the leading British Jewish group.

The Board is the only Jewish organisation in the world in which its leaders are democratically elected by the community they come from. Every Jewish person over the age of 16 is allowed to vote by themselves. Those between the ages of 12 and 15 are allowed to vote in a special junior election to encourage people to be active in the Jewish community electoral process.

The four candidates who people can vote for on May 7 are: Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks, Morris Beckman, Sally Cohen and Harry Greenberg.

Harry Greenberg is the current Board president having been elected in 2001.

Election forms detailing each candidate have been sent out to Britain’s Jewish community who will vote either by post or through ballot box. Ballot boxes will be located at Jewish communal facilities including synagogues, community centres and for the first time, in restaurants.

“We have made it easy for people to vote,” said Board election co-ordinator Robert Bloom. “Whether they want to do it through the post or going to a restaurant to place their vote, there is no excuse for anyone in the community not to use their democratic right to elect the leaders of the community.”

Extracts from candidate’s manifesto:

Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks: “If I become president, I will resign from being Chief Rabbi. I am standing for better rights and facilities for the Jewish community. My track record in inter-faith dialogue will enhance the Board and the work it does. As a writer and broadcaster, I understand the importance of being media friendly which should enhance the opportunities I get to speak on behalf of the community. Harry Greenberg has spent four years talking and not doing any action and as president, I will do less talk and more action.”

Morris Beckman: “As an accountant, I know the Board needs to be restructured. My election promise is if within 12 months, I cannot get the Board back on track financially, then I will resign and also refund my salary back to the community. Also, as my own personal commitment to the position, not only will I refund my salary, but I will donate an additional £100,000 to the Board as I do not want anyone to claim that I have not put my money where my mouth is.”

Sally Cohen: “The Board needs to involve more women and also Jewish people who are not represented well enough. As someone who has worked across all sections of the community, I intend to carry this through with the work I will do at the Board. This means greater representation of Jewish minority groups and their interests and concerns.”

Harry Greenberg: “I have served the Board well over the past four years, we have achieved great things that previous Board presidents could only dream about. Voting for me means making things happen.”

The Board is delighted to announce a groundbreaking fundraising CD to kick start a £640,000 appeal for a new Jewish dance centre in Bolton. The Music of Mel Brooks Volume I : Cover versions is a double CD featuring 24 songs from a film career spanning 40 years.

From Springtime for Hitler through to Men In Tights and Life Stinks to Spaceballs, the CD celebrates the work of Mel Brooks and his music and is performed by a glittering array of artists and other performers including: Simon Le Bon (Duran Duran), Rachel Stevens, Matt Lucas, Rabbi Jack Burns, Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks, Maureen Lipman and Lionel Blair.

Legendary music producers Trevor Horn (Seal, Frankie Goes to Hollywood) and Ian Broudie (The Lightning Seeds) share credits in the production of the album.

Among the highlights are Simon Le Bon together with Matt Lucas performing a stunning rendition of Springtime for Hitler (from The Producers) while the Chief Rabbi along with Rachel Stevens, Barry Cryer, Lamar and Girls Aloud share backing vocals on To Be or Not To Be, from the film of the same name.

“In less than 12 weeks, this wonderful team of people have put together this most delightful album which we know will appeal to a wide range of people,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “Money raised from the CD will go to setting up a Jewish dance centre in Bolton and we hope it will be covered by all the proceeds from the album.”

“When I heard that British Jews wanted to raise money to build a dance centre in Bolton, I just had to take part,” said Mel Brooks. “Bolton has a strong history of Jewish arts and culture. It was in Bolton that I came across a cousin of Marty Feldman who told me he had a relative that I should work with. So Bolton has much affection to me.”

“Without the groundbreaking work of Mel Brooks, there would be no Little Britain,” says Matt Lucas.

“I’ve always admired Mel Brooks from a distance and I’m excited to be associated with this project,” said Lionel Blair.

“I saw The Producers last year and thought it was really great,” commented Rachel Stevens. “And it’s great that I’m on this album too.”

The Board has announced that this year’s Jewish elections will take place 24 hours after the British general election on May 6.

Board president Harry Greenberg consulted with Prime Minister Tony Blair of his intentions to call the Jewish election and to allow the Jewish public to vote for its next president.

Since 1972, British Jews have voted in a similar manner to that of the general population when it comes to choosing their next leader and by taking place at the same time as the General Election, the awareness of the election is always high.

“I have enjoyed my past four years and will once again be seeking the support of the community,” said Mr Greenberg. “It is an honour to be the democratically elected leader of the Jewish community and I urge all people to take part in voting.”

Those intending to contest the election have until April 20th to register their intent.

“We encourage anyone with an interest in Jewish communal affairs to stand for election,” said Board election co-ordinator Robert Bloom. “With over two million Jews in Britain this is an important role to represent them.”

Anyone interesting in registering to stand should email: info@theboard.org.uk

In light of the recent postponement of the wedding between Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles, The Board regrets that due to it now taking place on the Jewish sabbath, the Chief Mohel will be unable to attend.

“I will still be sending my best wishes to the happy couple along with a signed copy of my autobiography, Tough Cuts,” said Minister Jacob Levinson. “Alas, being on Saturday I will not be able to make it due to the long distance involved and as a Jew, I am not able to travel during this day of rest.”

The Board has therefore decided that to replace Minister Levinson, a secular Jew will be attending. Mark White, an accountant from Gants Hill will be attending. Mr White, who is a senior partner of White and Co has been a Board member for 23 years.

“I am delighted to represent the Jewish community at the fantastic event and will be sending our greetings to the couple along with a special present of a sedar plate to reflect the forthcoming Passover.”

The Board is delighted to annouce that Minister Jacob Levinson, the Chief Mohel will be attending the forthcoming wedding of Prince Charles to Camilla Parker-Bowles.

Minister Levinson has been known to the Royal family for over 40 years and has taken the honour of performing the circumcisions of members of the Royal family including William and Harry.

“I’m deeply honoured that Prince Charles has invited me along as the sole Jewish representative. I have known the family for a number of years and was deeply honoured when invited to perform the bris for William and Harry,” Minister Levinsion said.

Minister Levinson heads the Board’s circumcision division. Since 1994, the number of circumcisions taken place have exceeded one million. As well as attending to the Jewish community, Minister Levinson oversees a team of 36 freelance circumcision experts who advise other diverse communities of their needs.

The Board welcomes the recent move by United Synagogue Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks to donate all proceeds from his next book, If I Was Really A Rich Man to the United Synagogue Pensions Appeal as well as supporting the Board in joint communal United Synagogue fund raising telethon.

He has also decided to show an initiative to the community by donating an additional 10% of his salary and freelance writing/broadcasting activities to the appeal. Dr Sacks has also encouraged other senior executives at the United Synagogue including its chief executive to take a pay cut until the pensions crisis is resolved so that more money can be given back to its loyal retired staff.

The move comes after it was revealed that there will be a major shortfall in the income United Synagogue staff including Rabbis could receive when they become pensioners.

In 1994, the Chief Rabbi was quoted by the Jewish Chronicle as saying it was unacceptable according to Jewish ethics “to make pensioners suffer for investment decisions in which they were not involved” and the Board is delighted that once again, Dr Sacks is a man of his word.

“When the Chief Rabbi says something within the community, we trust he really means it,” said Board appeals manager Debbie Green. “Never in the course of anglo-Jewry have we had a Chief Rabbi who has done so much to bring communal dialogue and that’s why we are delighted to support a cross communal event to raise much needed funds.”

Upwards of £3m is needed to support the United Synagogue pension fund and the telethon aims to not only raise that but also to double it.

“We at the Board are fully behind the community and all sections of it,” added Board president Harry Greenberg. “And we know all community members regardless of background will support this.”

A spokesman for the Chief Rabbi said: “Dr Sacks was really stunned when told that his fellow rabbis would be living a life of hardship unless funds were raised, so that’s why he decided to donate the proceeeds from his next book as well as take part in the cross communal telethon. The Chief Rabbi has done much for the community raising Jewish pride, creating positive Jewish awareness and building bridges with all sections of his own community as well as others.”

The Board is delighted to announce that its annual Purim appeal has raised £224,943.23

The money will be used towards a new state of the art kitchen for the Board’s central London head office - Board House - to be used by staff as well as entertaining guests.

“We are very thankful to the support of the community in funding our new kitchen,” said Board chief executive Jane Gould. “We have been struggling to make do with our kitchen and the new kitchen will mean greater catering facililties not just for the staff but also for our guests and indeed for our meetings.”

Currently the Board has to make do with two microwaves, one for meaty products and one for milky, as well as some outdated cookers.

“We will also be able to use the money to buy a microwave for Jewish vegans,” Ms Gould added. “So whatever diet needs our staff or guests have we will be able to cater for them.”

The new kitchen is set to be ready within the next two months and will be used by the 320 staff who work at Board House.

“Everyone here at the Board wants to thank the community for their help in letting us use this year’s Purim appeal to go towards the kitchen,” said Board catering manager David Brown. “We have needed good quality catering facilities for many years and now we will get them.”

As a service to the community, the Board will also be opening its catering facilties outside of office hours to enable the preparation of food for communal events.

“When we are not using it for our needs, we feel it should be open to anyone in the community to hep them put on an event or function,” said Mr Brown. “This will be free to the community, those who wish to offer a voluntary donation may do so. But its purpose is to give something back. We can also offer guidance on how to cook kosher as well as other food preparation.”

The Board is concerned by recent images used by McDonalds which show a bagel being used in connection with pig related products.

“The bagel is universally accepted as being associated with the Jewish community, whether in London, New York or indeed even Paris. The taking of such a Jewish symbol and sticking some slices of bacon in between it with cheese is nothing short of desecration of something important to the Jewish community,” said Board director of communal services Jacob Bloom. “We are concered that people will now associate unkosher products such as bacon with Jewish themes. That is not acceptable and we are urging McDonalds to withdraw the bacon bagel.”

The Board will also be writing to Prime Minister Tony Blair and Conservative Leader Michael Howard so that an early day motion can be tabled at the House of Commons in which this issue can be discussed.

“While, the Board appreciates that people may consume a bagel in any way they like, the overt use of bacon in the advertising and promotion of this product by McDonalds is deemed to be insulting and demeaning to the British Jewish community,” added Board president Harry Greenberg. “We trust McDonalds can appreciate the distress it is causing the community who have to view an image of bacon being used inside a bagel.”

The first ever I Love Jews campaign is proving popular as celebrities, Royalty, politicians and the public take to the message.

“In our first week, over 2500 I Love Jews badges have been given out,” said Morris Rose, head of Board campaigns. “We are delighted that so many people are taking to wearing the badges and requesting them.”

The badges, which feature the I Love Jews slogan are available for free from The Board and among those spotted wearing them are Prince William at the recent England versus Italy Crazy Golf Championship, singer Rachel Stevens and actor Lee Evans.

“I’m pleased to do whatever it takes to show the world that there is nothing wrong with Jews,” said Prince William. “I have many Jewish friends and enjoy Jewish comedy. So yes, I Love Jews too.”

Over the coming months, more badges in the I Love Jews series will be released. A limited edition designer badge with all proceeds going to The Board will be created by Stella McCartney.

“My mother’s Jewish background is important to me and this is a way, I can give something back to the community,” Stella said.

The I Love Jews campaign was created by the Board as a positive way to combat the rising tide of anti-semitism and to show Jewish pride. Through positive images of Jews, the campaign aims to create dialogue with all members of British society.

Celebrities and politicians are supporting a new national campaign to combat the rise of anti-semitism.

The I Love Jews campaign promoted in association with the Board, as well as other synagogues and other Jewish communal organisations, will over the next 12 months promote the positive aspects of being Jewish and the enormous contributions Jewish people have made to British society.

Among those signed up to the campaign are Prime Minister Tony Blair, Conservative leader Michael Howard, London Mayor Ken Livingstone, football star David Beckham, Little Britain’s David Walliams and Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks.

Little Britain’s David Walliams said: “In entertainment, they say Jews run Hollywood, which is a good thing. Could you imagine what Hollywood would be like if it was run by some sheep, or for that matter, donkeys? Jews are the best people to run showbiz. You see, Jews are human beings. They have feelings. And having worked with my cuddly Jewish friend Matt Lucas for many years, I have seen first hand what a valuable contribution Jews make to the world. Britain needs Jews. We love you. I want to become one.”

Prime Minister Tony Blair said, “I love Jews, who doesn’t? They have given us great comedy, huge portions of food and support for all parts of Britain. And they know how to play tennis.”

Michael Howard said, “As a Jew, I love being Jewish, and I fully support this campaign, which has cross-party endorsement. As Jews, we should unite and be proud. I am certainly proud to be a part of this campaign along with other Conservatives.”

Broad President Harry Greenberg said: “We are delighted that so many prominent people have come on board to support this campaign. We are working with all sections of the community to ensure the next 12 months are a success and the slogan I Love Jews becomes a national statement.”

The Board is delighted to announce that it is supporting London’s bid to host the 2012 Olympics with a donation of the Abraham Franklin Stadium.

Named after London’s first Jewish taxi driver and marthon winner, the stadium in Stamsptead, north London can house up to 126,000 people seated and is equipped to Olympic standards.

“Abraham Franklin was very much part of London. Born of parents from Russia in 1878, Abraham loved London and its people. He was known throughout the taxi trade as the sporting cabbie. In 1902, he won the East End marathon,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “The stadium was build in 1992 as a gift by his family and we are delighted that the Franklin Trust wishes to donate it for the Olympics.”

“Our great-grandfather was a real sports fan and we feel that it is right to donate the stadium to the Olympic bid,” said Jane Franklin-Berg. “All Londoners will benefit from this and we hope it will help towards the bid.”

Britain’s oldest Jewish person, Bobby Fogle has just celebrated his 122nd birthday and the Board has sent him his annual birthday card along with a free cheesecake courtesy of Baum Bakers of Rochdale.

Every year since 1988, the Board sends a birthday card and cheesecake to every Jewish person who is over the age of 105 at the anniversary of thir birthday.

Along with Mr Fogle, the Board looks forward to sending out 8,430 cards in 2005.

Mr Fogle, along with his family came to Britain from the United States in 1920 and since settling here has been a recognised member of the community.

In 1994, Mr Fogle donated £3m to set up the Fogle Centre in Cornwall, the largest Jewish community centre outside of London.

“I look forward to getting the card every year,” said Mr Fogle. “And I’m also looking forward to what I will be getting next year.”

Board president Harry Greenberg said: “We are delighted to wish Mr Fogle a very happy birthday and we hope he enjoys the cheesecake and his day.”

After much consultation with the Jewish community, the Board has decided to launch a range of specially blessed Jewish water.

The Board water to be called Shalom is the culmination of several years research into the therapeutic properties of blessed water. Both sparkling as well as still will be available immediately with special flavours such as lemon, orange and smoked salmon being launched at the end of February.

The water comes from a special spring discovered at the Stamstead home of Jewish communal elder Albert Stein.

The blessings are provided by a unity of Rabbis who meet once a month to pray over the water. This includes, the Reformation movement, Orthojews and Labour Jews.

Having seen the success of the “Kabbalah” water, the Board recommends all Jews in Britain to purchase its water.

“Not only is our water better than Kabbalah water, but it is also much cheaper,” said Board water consultant Barry Lewis. “At 80 pence for a litre for both sparkling and still, it is a very competitive product in the market.”

The new product which is supervised by the Middlesex Beth Din is approved by Rabbis across the Jewish spectrum.

“I think it is a great idea,” said Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks. “The Shalom water will provide much needed funds for the Jewish community in Britain to share.”

Rabbi Gloria Baum commented: “Having sampled the delights of smoked salmon water, it really is the real thing. Forget Evian, this is the best water.”

Shalom water can be found at most supermarkets including Tesco, Asda and Waitrose.

The Board has written to Channel 4, Ofcom, BBC chairman Michael Grade and the Office of Fair Trading to express its shock over the way British Jewish comics were represented in the recent Channel 4 programme The Comedians’ Comedian.

The show claimed it was a top 50 of comedians as voted by comedians but British Jews appear to have been excluded with Channel 4 putting in one “token” Jew.

Despite a long tradition of Jewish comedy in Britain starting with court jester Mazel the Mad One in 1530, there was only one British Jew - Peter Sellers in its top 50.

Other Jews such as Matt Lucas and David Baddiel were relegated to sideline roles just commenting on other comedians, while the programme showcased American Jews six times as much as the only British Jew.

“Jewish court jester Mazel the Mad One worked at Hampton Court to the delight of King Henry VIII who recognised Jewish comedy as a valuable part of British society, but we find it odd that for over 400 years Jews have been an integral part of British comedy but have been excluded by this Channel 4 programme,” said Board president Harry Greenberg.

“When myself and fellow Board members saw this programme we were shocked at the complete lack of British Jewish representation. Where was Sacha Baron Cohen? Where was Bernie Winters? Where was Barry Bloomfield? Where was Kid Kohen the Clown?

“We would like to know, why was it only a top 50? This show does not appear to be very objective and that is why we have written to the Office of Fair Trading as well as Ofcom, Michael Grade and Channel 4,” Mr Greenberg added.

In its letter to Channel 4, the Office of Fair Trading, Michael Grade and Ofcom, the Board writes:

“As you may know, British Jews have been an integral part of British comedy since the 16th century. It is well recorded that court jester Mazel the Mad One was much sought after especially for his work at Hampton Court during the reign of Henry VIII. So we cannot understand why there was only one British Jew in your top 50 of The Comedians’ Comedian.

Your exclusion of British Jews cannot be accepted by the Board and therefore we invite you to produce another version, this time not as biased against British Jews.

After all, one comic not included is someone with whom Channel 4 owes much gratitude to - Sacha Baron Cohen. Why have Steve Coogan, but not Sacha? Both men do characters and Sacha does better characters that atleast have different voices, whereas Coogan’s characters all sound the same.

The Board’s cultural division would be prepared to assist you in your research so that you can make a fair and accurate programme and we trust you will take up this offer.

We request to see a full list of who was shortlisted and what criteria you had to determine who should be included.”

The Board’s annual walking and coach tour of Jewish London attracted 250 people on Boxing day Monday, despite heavy snow showers, the first in London since 1953.

As well as walkers from Britain, the tour attracted tourists from the USA, Canada, Germany and Botswana.

The three hour tour hosted by Dame Janet Cooper takes visitors along a 16 mile journey of Jewish London including a visit to the famous Jewish castle - Lipski House.

“We start from the East End where many Jews first came when they arrived in the country and then we start looking at other areas where Jews now live and show some of the historic buildings where Jews have lived,” said Dame Janet.

“We were also delighted to be able to visit Lipski House, the first castle ever owned by a Jew,” said Dame Janet. “We also had tea and bagels with Gary Rosen, a relative of Mr Lipski.”

A highlight for many was the Jewish Free Hospital in Stamstead which was established in 1984 and provides free medical care and support to all residents of the borough of Stamstead, both Jewish and also non-Jewish.

Doctors and nurses turned out to greet the tourists and a five piece steel band played Hava Nagila.

Among the tourists this year was Ricky Moss from Boca Raton.

“My family come from England and it was great to see places where they used to live,” said Mr Moss. “I never knew how big Jewish London was and it was great to meet up with other Jewish people and see how their cultural life in this country is different from the one in our country.”

The Board, like other organisations will be operating a limited service over the festive season.

We will be back to normal opening hours as from the first week in January 2005.

The Board is delighted to announce it now has a mailing list where members of the community can subscribe for free (*) and get updates from the Board.

To subscribe, click here.

The Board’s mailing list will contain useful information as well as special discount coupons for a variety of products and services.

Subscribe today, it’s free and in your interest.

As Rabbi Bobby Evans says: “The Board has invested much time and effort into doing this for the community and every Jew should support everything the Board does. The Board does exciting projects and you need to know about them as well as support them.”

(*) While, it is free at present, the Board does reserve the right to start charging to cover this additional service to the community. If the Board does charge, it will become mandatory of every Jew to pay.

As part of its annual obligation to recognise Jewish people in Britain for their contribution to the arts, health, accountancy and food, the Board has released the following shortlist of people who have been nominated for a Board Jew of the Year Award.

The awards, which will be given out in February 2005 recognise the talent and ability of Jews in Britain.

Please note: usually the Board includes the legal profession, but after the 2002 investigation into award fixing, the Board has taken the decision to exclude those associated with law this year. This was part of a two year ban and a fine of £25,000 on the individual concerned. We hope to include them again in 2005.

From the shortlist of 10, three awards will be given out.

The 2004 Jew of the Year shortlist:

1. Matt Lucas - writer, actor, comic

2. Nigella Lawson - writer, broadcasting

3. Dr Jonathan Sacks - broadcaster, freelance writer

4. Lord Winston - medical expert

5. Sir Robert Graham - accountant

6. Emily Louise Grimshaw - convert to Judaism

7. Jim Cohn - chef

8. Michael Howard - political leader

9. Robert Cowan - musician

10. Natasha Kaplinsky - broadcaster

“We are delighted to announce another great shortlist of Jews that the Board wishes to publically recognise,” said Board chairman of Awards committee Lady Sally Marks. “Every year the Board looks closely at Jews in Britain so that we can recognise those who have done something special. Each of the 10 shortlisted are special in their own unique way and we look forward to revealing the three award winners in February.”

The annual Jewish Awareness Day which aims to educate and inform the British public about Jewish people and life took place on Sunday to great success with over 80 events happening up and down the country.

From Jewish Ice Skating in Durham and Yiddish breakdancing in Corwnall to Kosher cooking and Jewish comedy. The day showcases the integration of Jewish people in Britain since 1924 and is supported by the Government.

This year marks the 10th year the event has happened under the auspices of the Board.

The main event in Sheffield attracted 124,000 people and was attended by former British Home Seretary David Blunkett and opened by Hollywood star Al Pacino, fresh from his lead role as Shylock in Merchant of Venice.

“I enjoy having relations with the Jewish community and supporting and coming to such events as this,” said Mr Blunkett. “I can see at first hand the wonderful work the Board does. I never cease to be amazed at the variety of projects and depth of its work. British Jews and indeed the wider British community has much to be proud of in what the Board has achieved.”

For the 17th year running, the Board will be attending the annual Limmud conference in Nottingham and will be running several sessions including:

United community - How the Board unites all British Jews

So you think your funny? Don’t laugh at us, laugh with us

The importance of being important. Why Jews need the Board

Members of the Board including President Harry Greenberg and Chief Executive Jane Gould will be leading the sessions which sees them once again in the heart of the Jewish community. Also attending this year, is Board British Jewish Tourism director Morris Franks.

As always, the Board has a suggested donation of £12 to attend each session. All proceeds this year will go towards putting on the Board’s annual black tie social event. In 2003, £6,500 was raised.

“People may ask ‘What does the Board do’ and in our sessions we will explain clearly what we do and how we do it for the benefit of the community, as without us, British Jewry wouldn’t be the same. As a public facing organisation, we are committed to reaching out to the community and through our support of Limmud, we can show our commitment,” said President Harry Greenberg.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to get out of our office in London and meet members of the community all over Britain as well as the rest of the world,” said CEO Jane Gould. “Limmud also allows us to let our hairdown a bit and people can see for themselves that Board people also know how to party.”

Sacha Baron Cohen, the popular entertainer has agreed to join the Board in the honorary position of chairman of the Arts and Culture Division.

“We are delighted and privileged that Sacha is going to be involved in this exciting and fast growing division of the Board,” said President Harry Greenberg. “We are sorry that former Chairman Bruce Elias had to stand down, but in Sacha we have someone who can build on the strong foundation created by Bruce.”

“I have known Sacha for many years both as a personal friend and also as his dentist,” said Mr Elias. “After three years in the role of Chairman of the Arts and Culture Division, it is time to hand it over to someone who can move it forward and Sacha was my next choice after Harvey Goldsmith turned it down.”

Since the mid 1990s, Sacha Baron Cohen has been a popular entertainer known for his comical characters Ali G, Borat and Bruno.

“When Bruce and Harry called me up and suggested that I should be the new chairman, the first question I asked was ‘How will this help my career?’ and then I asked ‘Why did Harvey Goldsmith tell you to get lost?’,” Mr Cohen jokes. “Then I realised it was a great honour, albeit unpaid and a chance to finally meet and schmooze with members of the community who I have always admired and respected like Professor Albert Jacobs and Sally Goldman.”

With the 33-year-old Mr Cohen on the Board, the average age of the voice of British Jews is now 68.

“Having Sacha on the Board will show that the Board is certainly in touch with the younger generation,” Mr Greenberg added. “The Board has always admired his work and I personally can confess to having enjoyed Borat’s Throw the Jew Down The Well song.”

Among his plans for the future of the Arts and Culture division are a Jewish Fashion Show and a benefit gala evening for the Carlisle Yiddish Theatre.

“New York had Second Avenue as the home of Yiddish Theatre and in Britain we had the Carlisle Yiddish Theatre which until 2001 used to put on regular shows.,” Mr Cohen said. “Having closed down in 2001, it is one of the goals of the Board to help raise funds to bring back this historical theatre, not only for the 120,000 Jews who live in Carlisle but also for the nation.”

Following its open policy of connecting with the community, the Board is delighted to announce an association with football club Golders Hotspur which will see a “football kiddush” at every Saturday home match from February 2005.

The north London club which has a Jewish fan following of 204,000, will be hosting the special kiddush in the Jacob Katz suite. A selection of drinks and finger food including sugar free fishballs will be available for a suggested donation of £25.

The “football kiddush” is the brainchild of Board sports director Jacob Minsky who hopes it will connect the Board with members of the Jewish community as an average of 86,000 Jews attend each Golders match.

“We know more Jews are going to football matches than ever before and Spurs is the most popular club for Jews, so it makes sense to team up with the club,” Mr Minsky said. “We are always looking at ways to connect with the community and find out at a grassroots level what people expect from the Board. You can’t get any more grassroots than Golders Hotspur.”

A suggestion from a member of the Jewish community that all Jewish groups and organisations should declare the salaries and benefits of their senior staff and executives in public has gained approval from the Board of Guardians of British Jews.

“This is a voluntary obligation but we hope that many of them will follow our guidelines of accountability,” said Board president Henry Greenberg of the suggestion which it aims to see being practiced from March 2005.

The draft proposal recommends that any staff or executive member of a Jewish group who is paid more than £65,000 a year should declare their income as well as any other payments they get in connection with their work.

“British Jews have a right to know where their money goes,” Mr Greenberg says. “It is not good enough to hide what people are earning, it is important that costs are open for inspection and scrutiny.”

Among those who are set to offer their details on a voluntary basis is the Chief Rabbi, Dr Jonathan Sacks.

“Having spoken at great length to his department, they have agreed that the Chief Rabbi will reveal full details of what he earns, not only in his role as Chief Rabbi, but also from his other activities which include numerous freelance articles as well as other speaking engagements,” Mr Greenberg added.

“We fully support this initiative,” a Chief Rabbi spokesman said. “Accountability in the community is important. People have a right to know what their money is being spent on and in the Chief Rabbi, we wish to be the first to support this. Many have always asked and wondered how a Chief Rabbi is paid and through this we are able to provide details.”

The Board is delighted to announce that £240,000 was raised at a special gala screening of Closer on Sunday night at London’s Kensington Jewish community centre.

The film, which stars popular actress Natalie Portman is due to open in Britain next month and board members and their guests has an opportunity to attend the official Board screening.

“We are grateful to Natalie Portman and Closer writer Patrick Markber for allowing the Board to benefit from the proceeds of this screening,” said Board president Henry Greenberg.

A special statement from Natalie Portman who could not attend the screening was read out.

She said: “The Board is at the forefront of representing the British Jewish community and it is only appropriate that the Board should benefit from the proceeds of this screening.”

Mr Greenberg added:

“As everyone knows, the Board is committed to getting Closer to the community, so it is very apt that we were able to screen Closer. The money raised will be used towards the good work we are always doing for the community.”

The Board is delighted to announce that it is to start publishing a free weekly Jewish newspaper in Manchester starting January 2005.

The Jewish Week is a joint venture between the Board and local businessman Alan Jacobs and aims to appeal to the 360,000 Jews who live in and around the Manchester area.

The Jewish Week will publish a minimum of 60 pages in colour and become the voice of Jews in Manchester. It will also inject fun into the local community being a tabloid style newspaper and aims to appeal to 18-40 year olds. Initial print run will be 200,000 copies.

“Manchester is one of the most dynamic Jewish areas around and we felt it was time to offer the local community a free newspaper,” said Board director of communications Jake Riley. “As well as a comprehensive births, deaths and marriages section, The Jewish Week will offer campaigning reporting as well as great features and sport coverage.”

The new paper is the first regional Jewish newspaper to be published by the Board. It currently owns the national weekly Jewish Press which has a circulation of 500,000 and plans to move into other British regions.

As well as births, deaths and marriages, the paper will also cover international news, kosher cooking and a kids section.

“We can also announce that Rebecca Cohen, the New York-based Agony Aunt is joining our team as resident problem solver. It is a real scoop for us to get Rebecca and readers will get no nonsense advice from her,” Mr Riley added.

While there is currently a weekly Jewish Telegraph published in Manchester, Mr Riley explained the reasoning for The Jewish Week.

“Having expressed interest in buying the Jewish Telegraph on numerous occasions, we were unable to agree on a deal with the current owners. We recognise the potential of Manchester especially now the BBC is moving here and look forward to the opportunites being offered.”

One unique aspect of the paper will be its coverage of the ex-pat Canadian Jews.

According to the latest Board census of 2002 there are around 100,000 Canadian Jews living in Manchester.

“With such a high number of Canadians, it’s important to reflect their needs and interests, something the Jewish Telegraph has never done,” Mr Riley added.

Editor of The Jewish Week will be Mark Goldberg, a former deputy editor of the Jewish Chronicle while publisher will be Emma Jones previously sales director of the London Jewish News.

“In Mark and Emma we have two dynamic people with a strong conviction to Jewish publishing,” Mr Riley commented. “We are delighted to have them involved.”

At a fund raising evening in Doncaster at the Reformation synagogue on Thursday, the Board was delighted to welcome Conservative Party leader Michael Howard to address members of the local community.

With a Jewish population of 67,000 the event was a sell out that attracted 1400 people to the evening and raised £62,000 which will be used for setting up a new community swimming pool.

Welcoming Mr Howard, Board member Ellie Roberts said: “We are delighted to have you at the heart of our community as someone with a Romanian connection, coming to Doncaster means much to us. Many Jews from Romania first settled in Doncaster when they left as a result of the 1883 pogroms. For over 100 years, Doncaster has welcomed Jews and now we welcome you.”

Mr Howard spoke of Conservative plans for the future and his own committment to the Jewish community.

“The Board works hard for all Jews and speaks with one voice. Doncaster is a vibrant and growing Jewish community and its values are those of all people across Britain. I want every Jew in Britain to see me as a friend to them. Your hopes are my hopes, your problems are my problems.”

Mr Howard also revealed details of how some of his family settled in Wales and another part of the family settled in Doncaster.

“The Welsh side were not the most frum, judging by my cousins in Doncaster. But we talk on a regular basis and attend each others simchas,” he said.

Mr Howard also engaged in a series of questions and answers and Doncaster member Sean Clarke led a toast to Mr Howard and wished him the best.

The following edict has been issued by Board treasurer Sir James Newman. All Jews in Great Britain are reminded of their duty and obligation to follow the edict.

“As we all know, the Board does wonderful work on behalf of all the community. In order for the Board to function the way it always has means everyone must pay their annual levy to the Board.

The levy was created in 1977 in honour of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and helped to pay towards the Jewish celebration of her ascent to the throne. Since then levy funds has been used to benefit the community including free plane travel, subsidised knee replacements and building a network of 28 Jewish community centres.

The levy comes with two offers to those who pay by direct debit. A 10% discount card that can be used in Kosher supermarket chain Kosher Surprise as well as free banking at Banc de Shalom.

But despite the great value this levy offers, there are some members of the community who try to avoid paying it. And we must name and shame them.

There are no exceptions and these people are schnorrers. They are happy to enjoy the benefits the Board has arranged for them such as the annual Jewish Pride Festival in Liverpool and hernia check-ups but try to avoid paying the levy.

Today, I issue the following edict against Esther Norris and her family of Flat 87, 623 City Grove, Sale, Cheshire.

Despite two reminders, Esther Norris has failed to pay the annual levy. As a result, all Jews in Britain should avoid this schnorrer. Anyone found to communicate with her will under section 25 of the Board rules, be fined £1500.

Esther Norris can be accepted back provided she pays the £30 annual levy along with a handling charge of £5.

Failure to pay will result in being reported to the Equifax credit agency as well as losing synagogue benefits including burial rights.

Let this be a warning to the community. While, some consider this to be guilt tripping to pay the levy, we consider it to be a duty and obligation to make a payment to the Board.

Schnorrering against the Board is totally unaceptable and action will always be taken against those who attempt this.”

Should the Jewish area of London - Stamstead Green, home of around 850,000 Jews be given its own mayor?

That’s the question the Board is set to raise at a meeting with South East London Stamstead Green residents at 8.30pm on January 25th 2005.

“The area of Stamstead has mainly been Jewish since 1876 when Queen Victoria first admitted Jews into London,” said Board elder and head of the Mayor committee Jacob Letts. “Given that it is a mainly Jewish area, the board is asking residents if they would like to have their own Mayor for this area. Other Jewish parts of Great Britain have always been offered the opportunity to have a Jewish mayor and we need to ask Stamstead Green residents their view on this.”

Residents are welcome to attend the meeting which will take place at the Stamstead JCC. Light refreshments will be provided including fishballs, crisps and latkes. Those with any allergies are advised to notify the Board is advance so we can accommodate their request.

As from Kislev 25 5766 (25 December 2005), British Jews should only spell the festival of Chanukah as Chanukah.

The move comes after three years of in-depth research by the board’s religious committee and consultation with all the main synagogue bodies including Orthojews, Reformation and Labour Jews. Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks of the popular United Synagogue has also welcomed the move.

“Over the years, we’ve seen Chanukah spelt many different ways, leading to confusion both inside the Jewish community and to the wider world,” said Board President Harry Greenberg. The move to standardisation will mean no more spelling mistakes and no more confusion.”

The changes will take place one year from now, which will allow Britain’s three million Jews to prepare for the change.

Leader of the Board, Rabbi Dovid ben Shimon, commented, “I welcome and applaud this move, which should help towards unifying the community even further.”

The Board will set up a special Chanukah helpline for anyone who is worried about the change and what it will mean to them. “People are frightened by change – but change is also good,” added Board President Harry Greenberg. “I know it will be tough for some people but it is needed to ensure the future of Chanukah.”

The Board, through its affiliation to the Jewish World League, is aiming to also regulate the spelling of Chanukah on an international level. A special motion at the 93rd Jewish World League Conference, to take place in January 2005, is proposed.

by: Elaine Goldstein, Board Culture Deputy

It’s not every day that the Chief Rabbi takes part in a panto, let alone stars in it. But that’s exactly what pantomime goers both young and old were treated to, at the unique evening in aid of the Board’s Sukkah Building appeal.

Dr Jonathan Sacks took on the role of the green giant and gave an excellent performance while John Palmer was superb in his portrayal of young Jack who lands in hot water when he swaps the family cow for a bag of magic beans. Co-star Andrew Sachs, better known as Fawlty Towers’ Manuel gave a hilarious performance as Jack’s mum, Old Mother Rivke.

This cross-communal event featured not just the Chief Rabbi representing the United Synagogue but also participants from across the religious spectrum. Barbara Ellis from the Hull Reformation Synagogue and George Smith from Newcastle Labour Congregation provided entertaining support as two clowns, who always appeared on stage.

The stage set was donated courtesy of West End producer Cameron Mackintosh, and the surprise of the night came when Producers stars Nathan Lane and Lee Evans joined the cast on stage for an impromptu performance of Springtime For Hitler, with the lyrics changed to Springtime For Jack and Rivke. At first Dr Sacks looked a bit bemused but quickly got into the spirit of the song. We suspect he knew all along what was going to happen.

The event raised £225,000 to help with the Board’s building appeal, which will go towards funding the new communal Sukkah, which can accommodate up to four thousand people and be the biggest Sukkah in Europe.

Board President Harry Greenberg told the audience: “As the only voice for Jews in Britain, it’s important that our voice is loud and strong. The Appeal will mean that British Jews can be proud to know that our Sukkah will not only be the biggest in Europe but also the best, with many purpose built features including air conditioning and state of the art surround sound.”

This year’s annual Chanukah panto will be taking place tonight Monday 6 December in central London.

A full review of the show, Jack and the Beanstalk which marks the West End theatre debut of Chief Rabbi Dr Jonathan Sacks will appear on this website tomorrow.

Jack and Beanstalk also features popular husband and wife charity fundraisers Flora and James Myers.

“We are delighted that the Chief Rabbi was able to give up his valuable time to take part in this year’s Chanukah panto,” said Board president Harry Greenberg. “He didn’t miss one single audition and I think people will discover another unique talent of the Chief Rabbi.”

Among the honoured guests at the panto will be Board leader Rabbi Dovid ben Shimon along with members of his family who have travelled as far as Loughton in Essex and New York to join in with the event.

A special message from British Prime Minister Tony Blair will be read out by Board vice-president Amy Lester.

All tickets for the show sold out within 24 hours of going on sale in July. A special DVD box set from the show will go on sale in February 2005 with all proceeds going to the Board.