I don't know about you but the songs of my generation were full of so much meaning and rhythm. They were beautiful…But now there is no time for romance or good cheer, the songs come and go, fast and furious! …Garage, hip hop, r&b or d&b,can anyone understand what they are on about?

But do you remember "Those Were the days my friend" , "Yesterday" or"Qui Sera, Sera"…. The kind of songs that never died. They used to come together with all that time, too, for us to enjoy. So how come noone is playing them anymore, not in barmitzvahs, not in weddings…Does that mean old, therefore, value less?

The good news is that if you are in the right place and somebody is looking out for you , you can, you do and shall continue listening to the songs of your youth. Which brings me to the really lovely gathering we had in the Ohel David Synagogue last week, it was the nearest to a"The` Dansant" I have never been to throughout my life. After our Iraqi Club's regular Seudah , (plus a delicious cake from Aida in honour of her mended leg) .instead of traditional bingo, our Organizer Lydia Attar had an unexpected treat for us. A charming woman singer arrived with her violin, all ready to entertain us with the tunes we loved. Her melodious voice and chirpy personality made for a superb atmosphere, so that in no time at all she had us clapping and joining to the tunes of yesteryear. There was so much enthusiasm for the my fair lady rhythm at one stage, one of the men in the audience was moved to get up and dance the tango with Our Fair lady,in the process pirouetting in the most amazing way my friend. She promised to bring her organ as well next time, as there were so many encores, ah YES, those were the days!

This I tell you true : never anywhere else in London could so little money stretch so far, to bring so much pleasure to such a deserving community! I am putting in my request for another one of these mornings soon. Many thanks to Lydia, who is always finding new avenues for our enjoyment, Tarabna Wallah Ya Shababb!

Ivy (Member of the North London Community)