Room at the top

The departure of the estimable Simon Morris as CEO of Jewish Care means that by next summer, both our leading welfare organisations will be in new hands, with Elaine Kerr also leaving Norwood. But new leadership is also imminent or recent in other key communal institutions, such as JFS, the United Synagogue and the JLC.

This coincidence is, of course, entirely unplanned. But it nonetheless provides an opportunity for reflection on the roles played and future direction of these behemoths.

Both Jonathan Goldstein at the JLC and his brother, Michael, at the US, have made reform a central part of their programme, and it is clear that the new head of JFS will also need to make some fundamental changes.

The issues facing Jewish Care and Norwood are different. They are both well run — exemplary, even. But the already tough funding challenges are only going to get worse, at the same time as demand for their services is continually increasing. Squaring that circle is the toughest job any of the new leaders will face.

Fatty heaven

Chanukah food is the very opposite of the Woody Allen joke that it’s bad, “and such small portions”. Latkes and doughnuts are not just deliciously — and dangerously — moreish. No self-respecting Jewish gathering ever has less than enough to feed double the number present.

But it is — how can we put this? — sometimes over familiar. A doughnut is a doughnut.

But now, thanks to our competition with the US, we can offer a new addition to the range of Chanukah treats:  Madagascan dark chocolate and blood orange doughnuts. Enjoy!