Bushey backs £6m revamp

Bushey Synagogue members have voted overwhelmingly for a £6.7 million redevelopment of the shul site, just over a year after rejecting the original proposals by a slim majority.

The support of around 85 per cent of those at last Wednesday’s extraordinary meeting means the board will seek planning permission from Hertsmere Borough Council for the three-phase programme. This involves a major reconstruction of the synagogue premises and the demolition and replacement of inadequate out-buildings which house a wide range of youth and communal activities.

More..

Local lunch scheme a success

The first Bushey Synagogue “Lunch for Locals” Shabbat attracted 110 members, who enjoyed an informal post-service meal while their children were looked after in the shul’s creche. The speaker was congregant and globe-trotting journalist Martin Benedyk, who recalled major international stories he had covered during his career.

More..

Talent show raises money for Sderot's children

Seven Immanuel College students raised over £6,000 for Sderot by organising a Stars In Their Eyes talent show. The girls-only competition saw eight finalists sing and dance before an audience of 250 and a judging panel of music industry experts. The winner was 17-year-old Beth Leslie, who performed George Gershwin’s Summertime. Proceeds will go towards playgrounds for Sderot.

More..

Sixth-form screening programme held for Tay-Sachs

A screening programme for Tay-Sachs was held by Jewish Care for Immanuel College sixth-formers. Tay-Sachs is a fatal genetic disease more prevalent within the Jewish community. Among those present was Dr Philip Koch and his wife, who lost two daughters to the disease, prompting Dr Koch to become involved in research. “I feel we have achieved something today,” he said, “but there is much more work to be done”.

More..