17 October 2011 / 19 Tishrei, 5772 Volume 15 Number 38 Gilad Shalit May Be Coming Home - at Last

The Jewish Report wishes our readers and advertisers Chag Sameach PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Chagim the next issue of the Jewish Report will appear on MONDAY, OCTOBER 28

www.sajewishreport.co.za Friday, 17 October 2011 / 19 Tishrei, 5772 Volume 15 Number 38 Gilad Shalit may be coming home - at last

After five years in captivity - being held incommunicado all this time - a deal was brokered last week between the Israeli government and Hamas for the young soldier’s release. SEE PAGE 3

The Jewish Zen TRAVEL: Centenary of old Why do Israelis win FEATURE: Health of Steve Jobs / 4 Hawaii / 17 Malmesbury shul / 5 Nobel Prizes? / 9 & Beauty / 10-11 YOUTH / 16 SPORT / 20 LETTERS / 14-15 CROSSWORD & BRIDGE / 18 COMMUNITY BUZZ / 7 WHAT’S ON / 18 2 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011 PARSHA OF THE WEEK SHABBAT AND A time for YOMTOV TIMES Published by The apple of October 19/21 Tishrei S A Jewish Report (Pty) Ltd, reflection, (erev Shemini Atzeret PO Box 84650, Greenside, 2034 Hoshana Rabbah) Tel: (011) 023-8160 17.59 Johannesburg Fax: (086) 634-7935 redemption introspection Printed by Caxton Ltd 18.10 Cape Town 17.51 Durban EDITOR - Geoff Sifrin PARSHAT BEREISHIT and then 18.09 Bloemfontein [email protected] Rabbi S Suchard 18.16 Port Elizabeth COMMERCIAL MANAGER Beit Hamedrash Hagadol Sandton celebration 18.06 East London Sue Morris [email protected] THERE IS an interesting observation concerning apples, which has RITA LEWIS October 20/22 Tishrei Sub-Editor - Paul Maree been currently quoted. There are three occasions in which apples Shemini Atzeret Ed Co-ordinator - Sharon Akum caused an epoch world shattering change. The first is in the portion of JEWS THE world Candle-lighting from a pre- [email protected] the Bible dealing with Adam and Eve. over are in what existing flame could well be called 18.49 Johannesburg Senior Reporter - Rita Lewis According to some opinions the forbidden fruit was an apple, Eve the “Holiday Season”. [email protected] ate from it, gave some to her husband Adam and they were exiled 19.38 Cape Town from the Garden of Eden. During the Hebrew 18.42 Durban Sports Editor - Jack Milner Isaac Newton realised the force of gravity when an apple fell on month of Tishrei, [email protected] 19.00 Bloemfontein his head. The third is current world news with the death of Steve Rosh Hashanah, the 19.10 Port Elizabeth Books Editor - Gwen Podbrey Jobs who established the Apple technology which has worldwide Jewish New Year is 18.59 East London Arts Editor - Robyn Sassen implications for society. celebrated (for two [email protected] There is a fourth apple which has great significance to the Jewish days in the Diaspora October 21/23 Tishrei and one day in Youth Editor - Alison Goldberg people. In the book of Song of Songs, written by the wisest of all October 22/24 Tishrei [email protected] men, King Solomon, we find the love relationship between G-d and Israel) with happi- Simchat Torah ness, and the eating his people Israel, metaphor of a young bride-to-be and her beloved. Shabbat Bereishit Cape Town correspondent of only sweet things Moira Schneider: 021-794-4206 In chapter eight the verse reads: “Under the apple tree I aroused such as - apples dipped in honey, sweet Starts Ends you.” 18.00 18.50 Johannesburg Pretoria correspondent The Medrash explains that when the men of Israel returned home bread filled with raisins and first fruits. Diane Wolfson: 082-707-9471 18.10 19.40 Cape Town from the back-breaking work in Egypt under the Egyptian taskmas- The feasting on Rosh Hashanah is fol- Advertising - (011) 023-8160 ters, the women motivated them to have children. They took mir- lowed 10 days later by Yom Kippur, during 17.52 18.44 Durban [email protected] rors and made the men see themselves and their beautiful wives, which Jews fast for the entire day and 18.10 19.02 Bloemfontein Britt Landsman: 082-292-9520 who encouraged their husbands to have children with them. abstain from activities which could be 18.18 19.11 Port Elizabeth [email protected] Eve’s apple brought sin to the world, and therefore we need a Yom described as work related, recreational 18.08 19.01 East London Manuela Bernstein: 082-951-3838 Kippur. Newton’s apple teaches us that man is earthly, he is ground- and/or “pleasant”. [email protected] ed and pulled to earth. Steve Jobs’ apple represents the wisdom of Five days later comes Succot - the festival where everyone “lives” (or at least eats all Freelance Advertising Executives the universe, G-d’s wisdom which men discover. Man cannot create, KASHRUT ALERT only reveal what G-d put into the world. their meals) in a temporary booth or shel- Marlene Bilewitz: 083-475-0288 ter - from the inside of which the stars can DESPITE CONFUSING [email protected] The apple of the womenfolk of Israel, teaches us to trust and have faith in G-d. They believed that there would be a salvation and one be seen, the rain can be felt and the pres- LABELS. PnP’S Adi Lew: 083-407-8034 day as a people they would return to the Land of Israel as promised ence of visiting friends can make life for BAKERIES PAREV [email protected] the following eight days (which includes by Hashem. PICK N PAY kosher bak- Classified Sales the last day called Hashana Rabba) a very As we start Parshat Bereishit, Rosh Hashanah 2012, we pray to eries in Norwood, Charissa Newman pleasant experience. Hashem that Moshiach will come soon, without pain, and that we Killarney and Gallo [email protected] A Midrash says that at one time when will return to the Holy Land: “Under the apple tree I have awakened Manor, are 100 per cent Manager: Distribution Succot was just coming to an end, G-d said you.” parev. Britt Landsman to the Jewish people: ”Your departure is Just before Rosh Hashanah I received a phone call from the USA The labels which list difficult for Me to accept. Stay with Me one Design and layout from Rabbi Zalman Gifter, son of the famous Mordechai Gifter obm, the ingredients on their more day.” Frankie Matthysen who was Rosh Hayeshivah in Telshe Yeshivah Cleveland for about rolls, breads and pastries, Nicole Cook Of course they did just that. This day is 40 years (I had the privilege to learn in Telshe for 11 years). are prepared at Pick n Shemini Atzeret. Website Rav Zalman said that he had a wonderful insight on the Mishnah Pay head office for ALL Although its name implies that it is part www.sajewishreport.co.za in Pirkei Avoth, which his father had said as a student in the Telshe their bakeries nationally, of Succot (“Shemini” means eight, or Ilan Ossendryver Yeshivah in Lithuania. and therefore include IC-Creations eighth day of Succot,) because it falls on “Akavia ben Mehalel said, consider three things and you will not “milk” as an ingredient [email protected] that day, this is not so. It is considered a come into the hands of sin. Know from where you came, to where on some of their products. separate holiday. Subscription enquiries you are going and before whom you will have to give a reckoning. We appreciate the con- With Israel in Biblical times being an Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd “From where do you come, from a putrid drop, where you are fusion which this creates Tel: 0860-13-2652 agricultural society, this became a very going, to a place of dust and worms. And in front of whom you are for the kosher consumer important day as prayers for rain were BOARD OF DIRECTORS going to give a reckoning, before the King who rules over kings, the and are working with Pick recited. Howard Feldman (Chairman), Issie Kirsh Holy One Blessed be He” (PA3:1). n Pay to create separate Throughout the year, a set portion of the (Deputy Chairman), Stan Kaplan, Rav Gifter pointed out that although man is so lowly in his physi- labels for their kosher Torah is read each week. On Simchat Marlene Bethlehem, Norman Lowenthal, cal being, his soul will and can speak to G-d. Imagine that a puny bakeries. This process has Torah that cycle is finished when the last Bertie Lubner, Benjy Porter, man will have an audience with G-d A-mighty. This teaches us the been ongoing for some Herby Rosenberg, Howard verses of Deuteronomy are read. The first capabilities of mankind to rise to such a noble holy height. time, and we hope to have Sackstein, Jason Valkin, Elton few verses of Genesis are read immediate- We find a similar thought in the Machzor of Rosh Hashanah and a resolution soon. Bondi, Michael Sieff, Steven n. ly afterward, thereby starting the cycle Yom Kippur in the famous prayer “Unetaneh tokef”. In the meantime the Krawitz and Denese Bloch. again. For this reason, Simchat Torah is a “Man’s substance is from dust and his end will be dust.” However, UOS can assure its kosher repentance, prayer and charity will remove the evil decree. joyous holiday celebrating having complet- Advertisements and editorial copy from consumers that there is Man can elevate his soul to actually speak to G-d. This is a great ed the study of G-d’s word and looking for- outside sources do not neccessarily reflect absolutely no milk in motivation to strive through Torah and mitzvot to realise our poten- ward to hearing those words again during the views of the editors and staff. these products. tial to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. the coming year.

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Two irreconcilable sides of Shalit debate THE TWO opposing sides of the argument “very far from my own”. about whether Israel should have agreed to Addressing the question whether there the deal which will see Gilad Shalit being would be a blow to morale among troops on released in exchange for over 1 000 Palestinian the Israeli side when soldiers knew the IDF prisoners, many brutal killers, cannot be rec- won’t necessarily do everything to rescue onciled. Both sides have major merit - it essen- them from captivity, he said: “Just the oppo- tially boils down to whether such a decision site. They don’t want to be exchanged for ter- should be made on an emotional basis, or rorists; they want to be rescued through a strictly on a “rational” basis about Israel’s military operation.” “objective” security needs. The argument on the other side - making One side says under no circumstances the decision to do the deal on the emotional should Palestinian prisoners be released for basis, says: “Gilad Shalit is the child of us a single Israeli soldier, because that is a sign all.” of weakness, is giving in to terrorism and YNET carried an op-ed on Wednesday by almost guarantees in the future there will be Haim Misgav saying: “We encountered his other attempts by Israel’s enemies to repeat young, handsome face at every turn. I don’t the exercise - by kidnapping another Israeli think there was even one person who soldier or some other approach. remained indifferent; not even one person Also, many Israelis make the argument who did not wish to see this sweet child that terrorists being released will in future returning home. The debate was, and kill more Israelis, and who knows whether remains at this time, over the price. the “price” will be seen as worthwhile when “It is indeed difficult to speak of price that happens. when talking about a soldier, yet nonetheless YNET reported that the former IDF Chief we did. Concerned parties spoke about grow- Rabbi Brigadier General (Res) Avichai ing terror upon the return of some of the Ronsky on Tuesday said Israel should not murderers to our streets, while others have strived towards a prisoner swap that endorsed a deal ‘at any price’. included freeing terrorists for Shalit. He “Benjamin Netanyahu decided, and I hope believes the captive soldier should have been he decided well… As a member of the camp Noam Shalit, father of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, reacts at the protest encampment declared a dead soldier that cannot be of Eretz Israel lovers and as one who firmly opposite the prime minister’s residence in Jerusalem on October 11, on the news that a reclaimed. objects to the diplomatic solution taking deal has been reached for the release of his son. (PHOTOGRAPH: MIRIAM ALSTER/FLASH90) He claimed the only right way to release shape here, I say that we - the government Shalit was through military action: “You and the people of Israel - had no choice. The can’t bring an entire country to its knees, mitzvah of redeeming prisoners cannot be that’s just crazy. It’s complete surrender.” foregone. It is a mitzvah that must be under- Netanyahu: Shalit deal was Ronsky claimed Palestinian terrorists taken even if the bloody price it shall exact is released since the ’90s have, over the years terrible - and I know this will be the case. murdered over 1 000 Israelis in a long line of “People will be murdered in terror attacks best Israel was going to get terror attacks and the defence establishment - but what other choice do we have? Allowing is aware of the possibility that within just a Gilad Shalit to die in prison?” URIEL HEILMAN political camps took part in activities call- few months the Shalit deal might blow up in Whatever side one takes, the Jewish Report JERUSALEM ing for his release. our face in terror attacks; there was no waits with Jews all over the world and with It’s not clear whether this public cam- “maybe” about it. He added this was the Shalit’s family, for his safe return. IF CAPTIVE Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit is paign helped usher in the deal announced opinion of professionals in the field - includ- freed in the prisoner-exchange deal with on Tuesday, or whether it hindered an ing some with a left-wing outlook that was The Editor Hamas that prompted an emergency agreement from being reached. Israeli Cabinet session, it will raise two Shalit’s family believed that it had to immediate questions: Which side finally keep up the public pressure on the Israeli acceded to the other’s demands after years government to seal the deal. At the official of fruitless negotiations since Shalit was state Independence Day ceremony last captured in a June 2006 raid along the Yom Ha’atzmaut, in May, Shalit’s brother Israel-Gaza border, and what took so long Yoel darted onstage with his girlfriend and to get here? a banner reading “Shalit is still alive”. At our going to press on Wednesday, the Instead of getting arrested for the stunt on world was still waiting with bated breath national television broadcast, he got an for the deal to be implemented. audience with Israeli opposition leader Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Tzipi Livni. Netanyahu offered some hints about the But some analysts warned that all the first issue in a hastily called news confer- public clamour to free Shalit, only made a ence shortly before going into the Cabinet deal more difficult by increasing the price meeting late Tuesday night. Hamas demanded for his release. Indeed, This deal, he suggested, was the best for years Israel insisted that the price was Israel was going to get, so if Israel was ever too high. going to recover Shalit, it had to happen On Tuesday, Time magazine reported now. that the exchange would include as many “With everything that is happening in as 1 000 Palestinian prisoners - first the 450 Egypt and the region, I don’t know if the named by Hamas, and then 550 named by future would have allowed us to get a better Israel. The prisoners “will include as many deal - or any deal at all for that matter,” as 315 men convicted of killing hundreds of Netanyahu said on Israeli television. Israelis in terror attacks”, Time Foreign “The window appeared following fears Editor Tony Karon wrote. that collapsing Mideast regimes and the Critics of prisoner-exchange swaps warn rise of extremist forces would make Gilad that such deal merely encourages Israel’s Shalit’s return impossible.” enemies to capture more Israelis. The prime minister added: “If all goes Such criticism followed then-Prime according to plan, Gilad will be returning Minister Ehud Olmert’s decision in July to Israel in the coming days.” 2008 to trade five Lebanese prisoners - The deal reportedly was signed by the including notorious murderer Samir two sides on October 6 in Cairo following Kuntar - and the bodies of 199 others, in years of negotiations and mediation via the exchange for the bodies of Ehud Egyptians. News of the deal was first Goldwasser and Eldad Regev, two Israeli reported by the satellite TV station Al soldiers captured in the border attack by Arabiya. Its exact contours remain Hezbollah that sparked the 2006 Lebanon unknown. War. Shalit’s release would mark a remark- Goldwasser and Regev were thought to able end to a five-year saga that has trans- have been killed in the attack or shortly fixed the Israeli public, frustrated two suc- thereafter, but until the coffins with their cessive Israeli governments and spanned bodies arrived on Israeli soil, Israeli offi- two wars. cials said they could not know with cer- Then a corporal in the Israeli army, tainty that they were dead. Shalit was taken captive at age 19 on June Shalit’s case has been a little different. In 25, 2006, and almost immediately his family a video released by his captors in October launched an incessant public campaign to 2009, a frail but otherwise healthy-looking free him. The crusade included vigils, Shalit held a current newspaper and read a marches, meetings, statements by world message asking Israeli authorities to con- leaders, celebrity endorsements, bumper clude an agreement for his release. In all stickers, congressional resolutions, songs his years in captivity, Shalit was allowed no and a protest encampment opposite the international or Red Cross visitors. prime minister’s official residence in As Israel’s Cabinet debated the deal late Jerusalem. Tuesday night, the heads of the Israel Shalit’s plight struck a chord in the Defence Forces, the Mossad and the Shin Jewish State and the Jewish world, and Bet internal security service, all reportedly Israelis and Jews from all walks of life and expressed support for the deal. (JTA) 4 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011 AROUND THE WORLD NEWS IN BRIEF The Jewish Zen of Steve Jobs PAUL MCCARTNEY ATTENDS YOM KIPPUR JASON MILLER does the shofar call devices that have changed WEST BLOOMFIELD, MICHIGAN YOU to do?’ All of the the way we work and con- SERVICES, MARRIES NEXT DAY technical stuff was done nect with each other. The SOCIAL NETWORKING sites began on Apple technology. Jewish high school that LONDON - Former Beatle Paul McCartney report- buzzing immediately after word spread of And the project brought has its learners studying edly spent the night before his wedding at Yom the death of Apple Inc visionary Steve the congregation closer Talmud and chemistry on Kippur services. Jobs last week. Rabbis took time out of together. It brought peo- the iPad, owes a great deal McCartney married Jewish-American heiress their busy preparations for Yom Kippur ple together.” to the work of Steve Jobs. Nancy Shevell, 51, in London last week Sunday. to halt their sermon writing and post per- Over the past three The father who created They reportedly attended Yom Kippur services sonal reflections on what the contribu- decades, the technologi- a slideshow of memories and a breakfast at a local London synagogue. WWW.REVZ.ORG tions of Steve Jobs’ creative spark had on cal innovation that was set to music using iMovie The couple married in a civil ceremony at them. inspired by Steve Jobs’ vision had a sig- for his daughter’s wedding, is indebted to London's Marylebone Register Office, followed by Rabbi Andrew Pepperstone of Dewitt, nificant effect on the Jewish community. the vision of Steve Jobs. The young boy a small reception at McCartney's north London New York, posted to his Facebook page: His genius was in intuiting what would living in a remote area of the country home. “Is Steve Jobs a hero? If someone who has happen when you “strip away the excess who is preparing for his barmitzvah by McCartney's first wife, Linda Eastman, also was vision, discipline, passion, and love for layers of business, design, and innovation listening to a New York cantor’s podcast Jewish. She died in 1998 after a battle with breast what he does is a hero, then yes. It was not until only the simple elegant reality on his iTouch, is grateful to Steve Jobs. cancer. (JTA) about the money or the fame for him. remained”. Did the devotee of Zen Buddhism have REPORTS SHOW ARGENTINA HAS AN ANTI- “It was about changing the world in a The ways in which Jewish education a Jewish spark in him? Perhaps he did. million little ways that improved peoples’ and Jewish life have been positively There is no doubt that Steve Jobs had a SEMITISM PROBLEM lives. And his devices and other inven- affected by the products that Jobs profound effect on the Jewish world. His tions have been a major breakthrough in dreamed of and made into a reality are dynamic legacy will continue to make the BUENOS AIRES - Two reports that reveal the helping people with disabilities commu- countless. His iPods made Jewish music world better as we continue to plug in and extent of anti-Semitism in Argentina, were nicate and employ the best that technolo- and Jewish learning more accessible. His connect with each other in just the way released by DAIA, the Jewish umbrella organisa- gy has to offer.” computers brought graphic design to new he envisioned and using the devices he tion. The reports were presented on October 5. Earlier on Facebook, Pepperstone levels for Jewish institutions like syna- helped design. An opinion poll conducted by the Gino Germani recounted the plethora of Apple comput- gogues and day schools. If the value of tikkun olam really Institute of the University of Buenos Aires found ers and gadgets he had used since his first His Facetime application on the iPhone means leaving your imprint on the world that 45 per cent of those polled “would never Apple IIe in 1984. allowed Jewish communities separated in a quest to make it a better place for all marry a Jew” and that 30 per cent "would not live Answering the question: “Why Is Steve by continents to come together and com- of us, then Steve Jobs possessed that in a neighbourhood with a large presence of Jobs Important to Me?” Rabbi Eric municate. The geographical distances value a thousand-fold. (JTA) Jews". Linder of Omaha, Nebraska, explained and borders have become irrelevant The poll also showed that four out of 10 respon- how Jobs impacted his professional life. thanks to the innovative contributions of Jason Miller is an entrepreneurial rabbi dents have a negative opinion of “Jews being On his blog Linder wrote: “In my rab- this genius. Thousands of Jewish-themed and technologist. He is president of Access involved in politics” and five out of 10 think that binate, I have tried to use technology to applications from utilities to resources to Computer Techonlogy, an IT and social Jews talk too much about the Holocaust. make Judaism relevant. games were created specifically for the media marketing company in Michigan. Some 54 per cent of those polled agreed that “For Rosh Hashanah we leveraged iPhone and iPad. He blogs at http://blog.rabbijason.com Jews “are the first ones to turn their backs on the the power of social media to crowd Steve Jobs’ understanding of efficiency and is a popular speaker about the inter- needy”. source answers to the question, ‘What and connectivity led to the intuitive section of Judaism and technology. DAIA called the results of the poll “disturbing and alarming”. The survey was commissioned by DAIA and the Anti-Defamation League, which interviewed more than 1 500 people from across the country. ORT JET/Project Natan business According to Nestor Cohen, lead investigator from the University of Buenos Aires, “Jews are perceived as powerful, not supportive, and not plan competition in home stretch loyal to Argentina”. He added that in this case, "discrimination has NICCI RAZ more to do with an anti-Jewish and not an anti- Israeli feeling; it is not related to Israel's political THE ORT JET business plan competition decisions". entries have closed, with 34 business Meanwhile, the Annual Report on Anti- plans having been submitted, with the Semitism in Argentina showed that in 2010, anti- successful entrants in the running to win Jewish expressions appeared in public spaces, a fantastic business start-up package to including graffiti with Nazi symbols, and there make their dream a reality. was a large increase over previous years in digital The business plans will be reviewed by and virtual anti-Semitism. a panel of successful businessmen, Approximately 300 anti-Semitic incidents are namely Paul Bacher (current CEO, ORT reported in the country every year. JET); Joel Kesler (executive director, David Smith, director of the United Nations Anooraq Resources); Eldon Beinart Information Centre for Argentina and Uruguay, (director, Main Street Holdings); Daphna told JTA that “it is a very important day because Horowitz (executive life coach, Peac silenced cases come to light, but that makes it also Solutions). a very sad day”. The judges have all had extensive busi- The report has been edited annually by the ness experience and will be analysing Centre for Social Studies of DAIA since 1998. each business plan to see which idea has “There is a prejudiced pattern that does not nec- the ability to grow into a sustainable and essarily become a violent or unreported action,” viable business offering. Once the final- Marisa Brylan, director of the Centre for Social ists are chosen, they will be required to Studies of DAIA, told JTA. Argentina has an anti- meet the judges where they will be given discrimination law on the books. the opportunity to present their business Last year’s winners: Ronnie Levitan (Training Interactive); Caryn Paikan (The Vintage Federal Judge Daniel Rafecas, who presented case. Kitchen); and Neil Jacobson (The Attorneys’ Friend). the reports, said: “Argentinian institutions have The winners will be encouraged to worked very hard in recent years to fight against launch their business by being provided competition. forces great ideas into action, creating every type of discrimination. What is important with an interest free loan of up to R100 000 The winners will be announced at a new businesses opportunities within our now is to start working hard with the Internet, from Project Natan as well as other fan- cocktail prize-giving and networking community “ where many anti-Semitic incidents take place tastic prizes which include executive event on November 1, hosted at the JSE “The event itself has become a popular nowadays.” (JTA) coaching, mentoring, computers, legal and sponsored by Nandos. The event is networking opportunity for small Jewish advice and an accounting package . open to the public. To book, please contact businesses. It is a fantastic evening full of NEW JERSEY AGAIN DENIES HEBREW- This year a new category has been Tracey at ORT JET, (011) 728-7154 or e- excitement and potential and of course it LANGUAGE CHARTER SCHOOL added and those businesses called mail [email protected] is a wonderful platform for the winners to “seedling businesses” (operational for “I am extremely excited to start looking showcase their business ideas with the NEW YORK - The state of New Jersey for the third less than 18 months) will have the oppor- at the plans this year,” says Paul Bacher, attendees” says Daniel Roy (Project time has denied a proposal for a Hebrew-language tunity to enter their business into the “I love the fact that a competition like this Natan). charter high school in Highland Park. Citing unspecified “deficiencies”, the application for the Tikun Olam Hebrew Language High School became one of 56 charter school applica- Join Soul Workout in their succah tions rejected by the education department on September 30, the New Jersey Jewish News OWN CORRESPONDENT A lulav and etrog will be avail- reported. Only four new charter schools were able in the Soul Workout succah approved by the state. SOUL WORKOUT Jewish out- to make the customary blessing Tikun Olam would have been the state’s first reach organisation is providing on the four species. Refresh- Hebrew-language charter high school. the community with an outdoor ments will be served to enable Sharon Akman, who is leading the push to open succah at the Pick n Pay the succah blessing to be made the school, said Tikun Olam would not teach reli- Norwood Mall during this and the Soul Workout outreach gion but instead would treat Hebrew as a culture. year’s Succot festival. personnel will be on hand to She told the New Jersey Jewish News that Says Rav Ilan Herrmann, help with anything a succah vis- Tikun Olam hoped to serve up to 100 learners director of Soul Workout: “Last itor may need. from the Edison, Highland Park and New year we engaged the community The succah at Norwood Mall Brunswick areas. with an in-house Jewish work- is called “The Clive & Shelley “There’s always the possibility,” Akman said shop, this year we are going one Massel Community Succah”, when asked if she would apply again. (JTA) Pam Green and Bernice Shneier shaking the lulav and better with a succah for the mall having been donated by the etrog. visitors to utilise.” Massel family. 17 - 28 October 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 5 Breaking cycle of poverty through computer skills LAUREN SHAPIRO other learners in information technology.” ers will “break the cycle of poverty that reconditioned computers to over 165 DURBAN The 20 donated computers “will go a these families have had to endure for schools across the province, as well as to long way towards bridging the digital decades, and help to shape South Africa’s dozens of charities and NGOs, to help IT’S IMPOSSIBLE to get a decent job these divide between the haves and have-nots, future through educating these children”. them continue their good work. days without computer skills. Everyone, rural and urban”, Masango said. All computers are installed in a dedicated • For more information, contact from bankers to businessmen, receptionists But it’s not only learners who benefit computer room with a steel door and barred Roseanne Rosen on (031) 335-4452. to retailers, managers, waiters and from the computers. Many schools have windows to ensure security cashiers, needs to know how to operate a instituted adult computer literacy pro- of the machines, and each computer. grammes in the evenings and parents have school is visited and moni- But many schools in KwaZulu-Natal lack become involved in building desks, tored by representatives of sufficient computers to teach their learners installing and maintaining the computers the Computer Project. these vital skills. and decorating the computer room. In a further gesture of Nearly a decade ago, Durban business- “It’s wonderful to see how it becomes a relationship-building man John Moshal, saw a solution in an project for the whole community,” says between communities, each association with Computer Aids, a London- Lew Heilbron, who administers the proj- computer is tagged with a based company that takes over old comput- ect on behalf of the JAKAMaR Trust. “It Star of David and the room ers from large corporations when they instils a sense of ownership and empower- contains a plaque stating upgrade their systems. ment.” that the computers have Through the generosity of the JAKAMaR The Computer Project’s support of char- been donated by the Jewish Trust, he set up the “Computer Project” ities and NGOs further broadens the community of KwaZulu- under the auspices of the Council of capacity to improve the lives of the under- Natal. KwaZulu-Natal Jewry to import recondi- privileged in the province and beyond. “Every youngster who tioned machines at a fraction of the cost of “The generosity (of the project) will uses these computers, even new ones and distribute them to needy enable us to grow as an organisation, if they have not met a schools, NGOs and charities. reaching out to more children and families Jewish person before, will The impact on these communities has affected by HIV/Aids, poverty, and vio- remember the help given been palpable. “Our long praying and wait- lence throughout southern Africa,” says to the pupils and the school ing for such a donation has now become a Jamie Lachman, executive director of by our small community. reality indeed,” says Angel Makhoba, prin- Clowns Without Borders, who received This is tikkun olam in real- cipal of Khayalemfundo Primary School in two computers for their offices. ity,” explains Heilbron. Mandeni. The 15 computers donated by the “We all know that education is one of the “We believe that it is our project are the main source of technology most empowering tools that you could pos- duty and our responsibili- at the school. sibly give to someone,” adds Catherine Lea ty to help those less fortu- B P Masango of Hlahlindlela High School of Focus on iThemba, an NGO that pro- nate than ourselves. This in Hillcrest explains: “We are a school in a vides hope, support and education for Aids has always been part of the rural area and are in no position to be able orphans and vulnerable children in Jewish ethic.” to buy computers ourselves. This means KwaZulu-Natal. The Computer Project Children express joy and excitement at the donation of a that our learners were perpetually behind She believes that access to these comput- has supplied thousands of brand new computer room at iThemba earlier this year. Centenary of Ohel Jacob Synagogue in Malmesbury LYN MARAIS The history of the Jewish presence in gious ceremonies. of Malmesbury was officially opened by CURATOR, MALMESBURY MUSEUM Malmesbury is an interesting one. After The Malmesbury Museum was opened Dr Julius Kretzmar on August 12, 1992. the Russo-Turkish war of 1877, many on October 10, 1991. The section of the The synagogue building was declared a THE MALMESBURY Museum is housed Jewish families from that region made museum dedicated to the Jewish pioneers National Monument in 1994. in the building which was originally the their way to South Africa. Ohel Jacob Synagogue. On November 11 In 1901, Tobias Kretzmar, a Lithuanian the building will be 100 years old. Because Jew, walked from Cape Town to November 11 falls on a Friday, the board Malmesbury, where he decided to settle. of trustees of the Museum has decided to He began his career as a hawker (smous) celebrate the centenary the day before, on but later he became a general dealer and Thursday November 10. opened a shop in the main street. His wife Jewish Report readers are invited to and children, who had remained in visit the old synagogue at some time, “or Lithuania, then joined him. better still, will want to join our celebra- By 1904 there were approximately 114 tions - the centenary of Ohel Jacob Jews living in Malmesbury and they had Synagogue, and the 20th year of the estab- to have a place of worship. The founding lishment of the museum. meeting of the Ohel Jacob Congregation “Our celebrations will consist of a cock- was held on September 26, 1904. Kretzmar tail party for about 50 guests at R50 per was one of the founders of this congrega- person. tion and he served as honorary treasurer “If any of SAJR readers are interested on the first committee in attending, they can contact me at the Woolf Beinart was elected chairman museum on (022) 482-2332 before 13:00 and leader. In 1906, with 40 active Jewish Monday to Friday, or cell 072-753-0740.” families in the town, it was decided to build a synagogue and also as a place where young children could be taught the tenets of the religion as well as Hebrew. Max Goldman designed the synagogue and it was built in Prospect Street. The foundation stone was laid on November 11, 1911 by Messrs A Katz and B. Olswang, two leaders in the Jewish community. By 1920 the Jews were comfortably settled in Malmesbury. Their children excelled at school and although they were bilingual, their parents still spoke Yiddish. The Jewish community contributed to the social life of the town and civic organisations benefited from their generosity. Unfortunately urbanisation resulted in the exodus of the Jews to the cities and this led to a depleted congregation. In 1934 the congregation had a membership of only 274; by 1951 it had dropped to 129, and by 1974 the shul had to shut its doors – total membership 0. The building was bought by Dr Leon Goldman, son of the archi- tect, who presented it to the Municipality of Malmesbury, on condition that the building was to be used for cultural purposes and it was not to be used for reli- 6 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011 SOCIAL SCENE

Rita Lewis [email protected]

Eddy Oblowitz with Rabbi Asher and Zeesy Deren.

Preparing to kick-off: Gil Ben David; Rabbi Asher Deren; Joel Stransky; Gavin Shaskolsky; and Chabad treasurer Gavin Kelman. ‘Night at Newlands’ was a humdinger of a fundraiser RITA LEWIS Stransky. rugby ball and Springbok jersey, PHOTOGRAPHS: SHAP’S Zeesy Deren, director of Sinai signed by the whole 2011 team Co-chairmen CAMERA LAND Academy, paid tribute to all the (courtesy of forwards coach Gary people who “make the miracle of Gold). This added to the funds Brian and Lee- A HIGHLY successful “Night at the Sinai Academy and the shul a raised for Sinai and the shul. Anne Singer, Newlands”, including “Sport and reality”. Well-known South African sports make a special Support”, benefiting the West A video presentation, “Sho- presenter, Louis Karpas, intro- presentation. Coast Jewish community, was shaloza - Moving Forward” was duced international referee Jona- held recently in Cape Town. shown, capturing the soul and than Kaplan, who gave insights into Cocktails and a selection of spirit of the community. Pre- what lies ahead in the World Cup (at sushi were served and a raffle to sentations were made by the co- that stage still to take place) and end all raffles (in conjunction chairmen of the dinner, Brian stories from his years at the centre with Women of the World) offered and Lee-Anne Singer, who thank- of the action. amazing prizes, including a ticket ed everyone for coming and those Springbok stars Rob Louw and to Israel. who had helped in organising the Werner Greeff both spoke on King George Special guest, Springbok fly- event. highlights of their careers. whisky, a framed, half Joel Stransky who kicked a Director of Chabad Cape Town, Later there was a surprise autographed winning drop goal in 1995 to give Rabbi Mendel Popack, spoke on request to “auction a bursary”. photograph of the Springboks the world crown, the week’s Torah portion and With no prodding, hands shot up Joel Stransky’s was there in full form. After a Deputy Mayor Ian Neilson around the room as people quick warm-up he was lobbing brought greetings from the City “joined the bid” to provide bur- winning drop balls over the posts as numerous of Cape Town. saries for students at the Sinai goal in 1995, and guests joined him to also strut Neilson said he shared every- Academy. a Springbok jer- their stuff - while hundreds of one’s joy in seeing the growth of Pictures of the evening were sey signed by the guests cheered from the side- the community. available for guests on their way 2011 team. But lines. Guests were then serenaded by out from the “Night at New- no, Choni G him- In the upstairs reception room, Choni G, while South Africa’s lands”, where everyone, but most self was not on Rabbi Asher Deren, director charity auctioneer, Ariella Ku- importantly the future of Ju- of Chabad of the West Coast, per, sold off a bottle of King daism on the West Coast, were auction! made a presentation of thanks to George whisky, an autographed definitely the winners.

Springbok heroes Werner Greeff and Rob Louw, autograph rugby The crowds snake out of the players tunnel into a brightly lit Newlands. balls for the auction.

Mandy Lipman; Anton Marcow; David Meltz; Larissa Epstein; Mandy Meltz; and Zeesy Rabbi Levi Popack kicks off with rugby great, Joel Stransky (left). Deren, enjoying the dinner. 17 - 28 October 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 7

BRANDFORT past of song, music and laughter, COMMUNITY BUZZ that as we get older, we realise that LIONEL SLIER From Naomi Bloch. Melbourne, the song is ended, but the melodies 082-444-9832, fax: 011-440-0448, Australia : will forever linger on.” [email protected] “I read with interest your little snip- JOHANNESBURG CARTE BLANCHE CONVER- pet on Brandfort, and was wondering SION INSET where you found that information. From Morris (Mossy) Tucker, (the My father had an aunt and uncle who oldest practising pharmacist in On September 18, Carte Blanche, the lived there - probably up to the 1950s. South Africa): popular actuality programme on “He was the Reverend Batlan, his MNet, carried an item about some wife Hinda Batlan and their daugh- “On my return to South Africa after Afrikaner farmers who had convert- ter Sophie, who married Meyer working as a pharmacist for six ed to Judaism and had made aliyah. Kotzen, from Potchefstroom. months in England, I started work- This programme was very well “I was wondering if you had any ing in a pharmacy that belonged to received and many comments were information regarding the Batlan Xenophon Balaskas, the South Afri- posted on the Carte Blanche website. family; how long they lived there, can international cricketer. Marc Kopman wrote to SA Jewish where they were buried, etc?” “In time, I managed to purchase Report from Krugersdorp: “Mashlom- • The information was gleaned the pharmacy and for 25 years did cha! Yes, this is one of the Afrikaner from minutes of the Brandfort business in the shop in Rissik Street. families on Carte Blanche programme Committee meetings, now at the The pharmacy and I became an insti- on TV Sunday evening. They are Rochlin Archives at the SA Jewish tution and I was eventually called Johann and Ronel Brink from Ken- Board’s Library at Beyachad, Joburg. ‘The Old Man of Rissik Street’. mare, Krugersdorp, who started con- The Archives have an invaluable col- “Years later I closed down the shop verting in our shul last year with their lection of historical SA Jewish small because a bank required the premis- family. Apparently they were going to town communities’ memorabilia. es to expand. The result of this was the Pretoria Shul the year before as that I went back to locum work. The they didn’t know there was a shul in MUSICAL MEMORIES result of returning to locum work is Krugersdorp until the Kirschners (for- that I have spent good working time merly from Krugersdorp) in Pretoria From Barney Segal: in no less than 52 pharmacies. advised them differently! “I am currently employed by a “The other vocally aggressive set- “Going back in time, we reminisce wholesale veterinary business and tler, Taljaard, converted with his about the great musical moments of am in charge of their dispensary. I entire family through the Rand- a bygone era. We had the privilege of have promised this firm a further 12 fontein Shul and his sons today run listening to, and dancing to top bands years of service and sincerely set my the Kosher Burger King in Jerusalem. like Roy Martin, Benny Michel and sights on achieving this. By the grace Apparently some Krugersdorp guy the Dockey Masterkeys. of G-d, I hope that this is the case.” was there recently and ordered a “Very entertaining, too, was the burger and chips and one of the sons Dan Hill band with singer, Artemis, • At Lords Cricket Ground, June 29 at the counter shouted through to the well-known to the crowds who to July 2, 1935 the South African tour- kitchen: ‘Een burger, chips en ‘n coke, flocked to the Orange Grove Hotel. ing team under Herby Wade beat maak blerrie gou asseblief !’” “Another highlight was the OK England in England, for the first time • Johann Brink said he was a great Tea Lounge in town on Saturday ever. SA scored 228 and 278 for 3 rugby supporter but could no longer mornings where the all-ladies band (Bruce Mitchell 164 not out) and watch the matches on TV because of Fay Kleams did us proud with the England scored 198 and 151. SA won they were all played on Shabbat. hit tunes of the day. by 157 runs. XC Balaskas was the star •• One comment on the Carte “We also remember the musical of the match, taking 5 for 49 in the Blanche website was as follows: and variety shows held at Joubert first innings and 4 for 54 in the second. “Carte Blanche is another puppet of Park on weekends, ably compèred by Four of the five tests were drawn the Zionist regime. I will never watch the well-known Morrie (?) Blake. and it was the first time that a SA Carte Blanche again.” (http://beta. “The Plaza Cinema was also the team had won a series abroad. mnet.co.za/carteblanche/Article.aspx? venue for talent shows. Test matches were played over Id=4430&ShowId=1) “Such was the vibe from the great only three days. 8 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS Looking back, looking forward THE CLICHÉ that looking back where you’ve come from can give a sense of where you’re going, is not straightforward when the world is so confusing. But it is good to pause at Rosh Hashanah and take stock in whatever way we can - personally and as Jews and citizens of South Africa and the world. As South Africans, we celebrated the 93rd birthday of our great visionary Nelson Mandela in July, who has retired to his birthplace of Qunu in the Eastern Cape. Sadly, leaders who have replaced him are nowhere near his stature, crime and corruption are rife, and the likes of ANC Youth League President Julius Malema continue dominating headlines and sending ripples of anxiety through minority communities, including Jews. For this Zionistic South African Jewish community, there have been some events this past year which signal disquieting trends: the University of Johannesburg, in an anti-Israel move, severed formal research ties with Ben- Gurion University of the Negev; Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, a revered icon of the Struggle, continued expressing public antago- nism to Israel - last October he appealed to the Cape Town Opera to cancel its Israel trip, and he Participants is one of the high-profile supporters, with Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Ronnie Kasrils, embracing of the “Russell Tribunal” in November in Cape prior to Town, a kangaroo court aimed at fostering con- Occupy Wall demnation of Israel; Mr Justice Richard Street’s Kol Goldstone admitted that his report condemning Nidre service Israel for “war crimes” in Gaza in 2009 was across from flawed, but could not undo the damage the report Zuccotti Park had caused Israel; and the South African government signalled supported for the unilateral in downtown Palestinian attempt to get UN approval of a New York, on Palestinian state. October 7. We must not become inured to these negatives (PHOTOGRAPH: as if it they are a given, a fact of life. There is DANIELLE good news in abundance, epitomised, for exam- FLEISCHMAN) ple, by the grand Absa Jewish Achievers event in August, where a new generation of young South African Jewish entrepreneurs in business, humanitarian and artistic life were lauded - people who see not only negatives, but also reach for Occupy Wall Street protests the amazing opportunities in South Africa. As one young Jewish businessman put it to the audience: “For those of us who stayed (in South Africa), there is huge opportunity.” taking on a Jewish flavour With their entrepreneurial spirit, these people are the hope of this country. Earlier this year the DAN KLEIN AND DANIELLE FLEISCHMAN The person credited with the idea of protests were about an opportunity to Jewish Report started running a series of NEW YORK holding the Kol Nidre services at the have Jews fulfil the mitzvoth of Succot. columns entitled “Building South Africa - People protests, Rabbi Arthur Waskow, director In the lead-up to the holiday, he made Doing Remarkable Things”. The activists cele- RACHEL FELDMAN originally had of the Shalom Centre, told JTA that plans to build a succah at the site of the brated are often the unsung heroes creating new meant to attend a traditional synagogue protesting was a key part of Judaism. New York protests. possibilities – doing their “thing” with no fanfare. Kol Nidre service. Aimee Weiss hadn’t “The reason there is a Jewish place in “It’s not a political angle,” he told The continued vibrancy of South African found a place to daven but was looking these protests is that there is a protest JTA. “I truly believe that on Succot Jewry is apparent from major Jewish functions for something more interesting than a place in Judaism,” he said. “From the everyone should be able to celebrate held during the year, attracting high-level partic- “big box synagogue”. Exodus, from Isaiah, from Jeremiah and the holiday. When I found that this ipants from abroad: in February, Chabad held its Come Yom Kippur eve, they and sever- all the way down to rabbinic Judaism, opportunity was available, I wanted to iconic Miracle Drive event; in April, the SAZF al hundred other Jews found themselves there is a sense that Judaism is constant- be able to help perform the mitzvah.” conference heard international legal expert Alan drawn to lower Manhattan, where under ly struggling against top-down power of The Conservative movement’s Dershowitz make the case for Israel; in July, peo- the gaze of curious onlookers, they held the Pharaoh. Rabbinical Assembly donated 120 High ple filled halls to capacity at the Sinai Indaba to an open-air Kol Nidre service organised “Judaism calls for freedom, democracy Holy Days prayer books for the Yom hear inspirational speakers like Rabbi Yossy to support the Occupy Wall Street pro- and feeding the hungry,” he added. Kippur service. Jacobson and others from New York and else- testers near Zuccotti Park. Some Jews involved with the protest- “Wherever there is an opportunity to where; in August, the SAJBD conference saw old “Kol Nidre reminds us that though we ers said they were also trying to combat bring Torah and learning to Jews, anti-apartheid comrades Michael Schneider and make commitments under duress, ulti- a minority strain of anti-Zionism and wherever they are, we want to be South African Vice-President Kgalema mately we are accountable only to the anti-Semitism running through the there,” said Rabbi Julie Schonfeld, the Motlanthe, addressing a rapt audience from the higher values of justice and righteous- movement. organisation’s executive vice presi- same podium; also in August, participants in ness,” the organiser of the service, Dan “There was a guy with a sign ‘Zionists dent. Limmud at the Vaal and Stellenbosch mingled Sieradski, said at the event, reading from control the financial world’,” said Kobi Last week Friday night, the drum- with Rabbi Nathan Cardozo, Gerald Steinberg a labour leader’s Midrash. Skolnick, a former Chabadnik who once beat at the plaza protesters have occu- and other international figures. The service was the most salient but attended a yeshiva in the West Bank. pied since September 17, was drowned With the emigration phenomenon so present hardly the only sign of a growing “They have freedom of speech, but so do out by the sounds of Kol Nidre. in our minds, we tend to focus on those leaving attempt to infuse the economic protests I. What we did is we wrote on a big, 10 Congregants arranged themselves in and not enough on those staying and building with a Jewish flavour - at least, for the times bigger, sign: ‘This sign sucks, and concentric circles around the bimah this country. At the SAJBD conference, Jews involved. it is not representative here’.” and a Torah scroll on loan from an Motlanthe paid tribute to South African Jewry From progressive activists who seek to Sieradski, too, said there were some Orthodox synagogue, chanting and and appealed to Jews to use their expertise to conflate the protesters’ aspirations with anti-Zionist ideologues involved in the singing so that the words of the service help develop South Africa – in particular, he Jewish values to Chabadniks looking for Occupy Wall Street protests who believed could carry back to the edges of the appealed for help fighting the “ticking bomb” of opportunities to have Jews perform that Israel was central to US economic crowd. unemployment. mitzvoth such as sitting in a succah, the issues. It was hard to tell whether the Kol The Jewish Report attained “manhood” this Occupy Wall Street protests are becom- They “think that the issue of the Nidre call and response was borrowed year, turning 13 last May. We continue to be a ing a fulcrum of Jewish ferment. Israeli occupation is inseparable from from an old labour tactic or Jewish voice for all South African Jews and a forum for In Boston and Philadelphia, too, the economic situation. They think that summer camp. Halaal food carts ringed diverse opinion. The paper is also widely read out- Jewish activists held Yom Kippur servic- Israel is an outpost of American imperi- the congregation. side the community. It is imperative that a vibrant es at the site of the demonstrations. alism, including economic imperialism,” Feldman, 26, an activist who had Jewish community has a vibrant newspaper. “For many of us, social justice is where he said. demonstrated in Zuccotti Park earlier Looking forward to the year ahead, we are con- we find our Judaism,” said Regina Weiss, “There is a tendency on the left to that week, noted that the service had fident SA Jewry will continue building both a the communications director for Jewish make Jews who identify with Israel drawn many of her friends who would strong, healthy Jewish community, as well as Funds for Justice. uncomfortable. I hope we can overcome never go to services. broader South African society. “For many there is no more important that. There are plenty people against the “This is what shul should feel like,” We look forward to a positive and prosperous way to stand up and express Judaism on Israel occupation, but that’s not what said Feldman, surrounded by a congre- new year. the holiest night of the year than to stand this is about.” gation wearing a mix of sneakers, ties, with people who are hurting and to stand For Yoni Reskin, a Chabadnik who tallitot, yarmulkes, jeans and T-shirts. up for greater equality in the country.” owns the PopUp Succah company, the “Overwhelmed by community.” (JTA) 17 - 28 October 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 9 OPINION AND ANALYSIS - FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS AROUND THE WORLD What is it about Israel that wins Nobels? NEWS IN BRIEF EINSTEIN LETTER ON LINDA GRADSTEIN AUCTION BLOCK JERUSALEM LOS ANGELES - A letter written by Albert Einstein to a Jewish DAN SHECHTMAN remembers New York businessman is on the the day he was kicked out of a auction block. research group because of the The typed letter, signed A theory that two weeks ago won Einstein and on his personal him the Nobel Prize in chemistry. embossed stationery, has been “Read this book. What you say put up for sale by a West Los is impossible,” the group leader at Angeles auction house. The the National Bureau of Standards deadline for bidding was 17:00 in Maryland, where Shechtman (Pacific time) on Tuesday. was doing his sabbatical in 1982, “We (Jews) have no other told him. means of self-defence than our “I told him, ‘I know this book, solidarity and our knowledge and I know I have something that the cause for which we are new’,” Shechtman replied. suffering is a momentous and The response, recalls Shecht- sacred cause,” Einstein wrote to man: “You are a disgrace and I Hyman Zinn on June 10, 1939, want you to leave my group.” praising Zinn for his efforts to aid Schechtman joined another Jewish refugees from Germany group, but the paper he wrote was and Austria. rejected and he was ridiculed by Nate Sanders, the owner of many colleagues. the Los Angeles auction house “My friends were nice to me, but that bears his name, told JTA kind of in the way that you’re nice that the letter had been con- to the retarded kid,” Shechtman signed by a Norman Zinn, pre- recalled with a wry smile at a sumably a descendant of the news conference this week. Israeli scientist Dan Shechtman, explaining his Nobel Prize-winning theory to Prime Minister Benjamin original recipient. Nearly 30 years later, Shecht- Netanyahu, on October 6. (PHOTOGRAPH: AMOS BEN GERSHOM/GPO/FLASH 90) One day before the auction man received the Nobel Prize for deadline, the highest bid stood at his work in quasicrystals, also existing knowledge and the prevail- critical can foster courage and an tion. In a study conducted by the $3 058, but Sanders, whose com- called Shechtmanite. ing reality,” Gidi Greenstein, direc- appreciation for the pursuit of Taub Centre, Ben David company specialises in autographs by Shechtman is the 10th Israeli to tor of the Reut Institute think tank, truth,” said Daniel Gordis, presi- pared the levels of science, math famous personalities, expects to win a Nobel Prize, part of a chain told JTA. dent of the Shalem Foundation. and reading in 25 developed coun- sell the letter for $5 000 to $7 000. that stretches back to S Y Agnon, “You have the Torah and the “Israel, for all its faults, and there tries, including Israel. Israel Writing three months before who won the prize for literature in Talmud, and then you have the are many, has both intellectual came in last place. the outbreak of the Second World 1966. Of the 840 Nobel Prizes ever reality, which keeps changing. openness and academic excel- “We need excellent teachers War, Einstein went on to tell Zinn, awarded, some 20 per cent have The tension between what we lence.” who cannot only teach, but can be of the Manhattan Button Co: gone to Jews. Israel, with its popu- know and what we experience, is Others say that Israel’s over- role models,” Shechtmann said. “The power of resistance which lation of 7,5 million, has won the the secret of creativity.” whelming defence needs have “In some countries, a teacher has has enabled the Jewish people to same number of Nobels as India, Others say there is something boosted the state’s interest in sci- prestige and a good salary. Here a survive for thousands of years, which was founded a year before unique about the Israeli charac- ence. teacher can’t support his family.” has been based to a large extent Israel and has a population of 1,15 ter. “An enormous amount of At the same time, there is a on traditions of mutual helpful- billion. “One of the things you need to money has been invested here in trend of Israeli scientists from ness. In these years of affliction What is it about Israel - and do well in science and hi-tech is to security,” said Prof Yaron Oz, abroad returning to Israel to con- our readiness to help one anoth- Jews - that wins Nobels? think outside the box, and we as dean of Tel Aviv University’s tinue their research here. Oz er is being put to an especially “Israeli universities, like my Israelis are not familiar with any Exact Sciences Department. came to Israel from Geneva 10 severe test. May we stand this university, the Technion, are boxes,” said Prof Dan Ben David, “A large number of people stud- years ago. The latest Nobel Prize test as well as did our fathers excellent,” Shechtman said of the director of the Taub Centre for ied science or engineering relative will only encourage that trend, before us.” Technion-Israel Institute of Tech- Social Policy Studies in Israel. to the population, and many of some predicted. In conclusion, Einstein told nology in Haifa. “But there’s also “We don’t understand lines, we them studied in military-related “Every Israeli university has Zinn: “It must be a source of deep an Israeli spirit of free thinking. don’t believe in lines and we programmes. It was seen as essen- graduate students who can com- gratification to you to be making Sometimes it leads to chaos always ask why when someone tial to Israel to develop its own pete with the best in the world,” so important a contribution because everyone has his own asks us to do something. That can weapons.” Oz said. “You need talent and toward rescuing our persecuted idea about everything, but free be very aggravating, but it’s a Oz says that in many other infrastructure, and I think we fellow-Jews from their calami- thinking encourages successful great quality when it comes to Western countries, more students have both. I expect we will win tous peril and leading them scientists.” doing research.” are going into fields like law or many more Nobel Prizes.” (JTA) toward a better future.” (JTA) Since 2002, Israeli scientists Israelis also tend to be tena- business, which are more lucra- have received six Nobels - two in cious and obstinate. The saying, tive than science. But in Israel, economics and four in chemistry. “Right or wrong, but never in scientists are highly respected Some say Jews are uniquely doubt”, could be a national slogan. and salaries are competitive. suited to the study of science. Schechtman provides the perfect Many Israeli scientists worry “For thousands of years, Jews example: He was ridiculed for that the level of Israeli students is have been brought up to question years but never gave up. slipping and call for more govern- and to try to bridge the gap between “Open societies that are self- ment spending on science educa- 2ND DEMENTIA SA CONFERENCE THE PAVILION, CAPE TOWN: OCTOBER 25 & 26, 2011 This conference will explore some of the global methods and best practices in caring for people with dementia of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common. The all-important factor is to maintain respect and dignity for the person with the disease. HIGH PROFILE INTERNATIONAL SPEAKERS AND LOCAL EXPERTS The best-selling author on dementia care and director of the Association for Dementia Studies, Institute of Health and Society at University of Worcester, UK, Prof Dawn Brooker will discuss the importance of person centred care for people living with dementia, using activity and occupation as a way to unlocking potential. Another expert and best-selling author, Danuta Lipinska, will tackle issues around counselling, grief and strategies for coping as carers. She will focus on helping carers respond appropriately to relatives going through the grieving process, self-care for the carer, and then a rarer form of dementia, Dementia with Lewy Bodies. Caroline Baker is the Dementia Services director at Four Seasons Health Care in the UK. She brings extensive practical experience in dementia care, putting the VIPS model of care into practice.

CPD POINTS REGISTERED 10 GENERAL LEVEL 1 & 2 ETHICS LEVEL 2 National Helpline: 0860 636 679 / (021) 421-0077/8 www.dementiasa.org – click on conference link.

Registration: http://conferences.dementiasa.org/

STRATEGIC PARTNERS: Lotto, SA Depression & Anxiety Group (SADAG), SA Geriatrics Society 10 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011 FOCUS ON HEALTH & BEAUTY

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Fiona Ramsay, with Tony Bentel on piano. (PHOTO- ARTS MATTERS TAPESTRY GRAPH COURTESY OLD MUTUAL THEATRE ON THE SQUARE) COMPILED BY ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE ROBYN SASSEN Call 084-319-7844 or [email protected] at least one week prior to publication A show Absa Gallery, Johannesburg: “If I told you the truth, I’d be lying”, worthy of its Stephen Rosin’s first solo exhibition, until November 4, (011) 350-5793. unassuming Everard Read and Circa Gallery, Rosebank: “The Horse”, curated by Ricky truths Burnett, until October 30, (011) 788-4805. Play: “Sailing Somewhere”, Old Mutual Theatre on the Square, Sandton (011) 883-8606) wright Matthew Hurt - is portrayed by Fiona Disillusionment awaits this singer once again. Foxwood House Theatre, Cast: Fiona Ramsay, with Tony Bentel, on piano Ramsay with the finesse which feeds her wide- In one of the most riveting scenes in “Sailing Houghton: “Rapid Fire Writer: Matthew Hurt, ranging approach to an individual, challenging Somewhere”, Ramsay relives this traumatic Fairytales” with Gavin Playwright: Conor Mitchell, songs portrayal with a multitude of facets, making her moment with every nerve in her body which Bonner, October 28, (011) 486- Director: Vanessa Cooke a fully rounded character…warts and all. becomes transfixed in a devastating facial 0935. Design: Andrew Botha (set); Delene Holt (costume If this all sounds a bit too desperate to be enter- expression. What we see here is not acting, but construction); Nik Sakellarides (sound) taining, be assured that Ramsay’s lounge singer real, imploding feelings. Fried Gallery, Pretoria: Until: October 29 is also a frisky lady, a great story teller with a The flow of the show is enhanced by Mitchell’s “Connections”, by Regi Bar sense of humour, and especially a richly expres- inspiring songs whose titles are unfortunately David, Pascual Tarazona, REVIEWED BY PAUL BOEKKOOI sive ironic core that is all her own. not listed in the programme. They all reflect in a Lynette ten Krooden and There’s always a strong narrative throughout compassionate, but ever so often in a wry way, on David Udbjorg, until “SAILING SOMEWHERE” is a kind of generic the 75 minute play which connects us with most the singer’s life. It is in these lyrics that the dark November 12, (012) 346-0158. one-woman solo performance, with original solo facets of her life. She is, within the enclosed and even black humour finds its way. songs added, with not a standard or cover version world of a cruise liner, very observant of every Ramsay’s voice is rather gritty, but at all times Gallery AOP, Milpark: in sight. There is live music coming from master behaviouristic manner of every passenger or fel- it suits the mood of the songs to a T. There is an “Reading Room” by Jonah pianist Tony Bentel as Chuck, who is fully in low crew member - especially that of Stan, the expressive edge to her performance which will Sack, until October 29, (011) command of stylistic truth in handling Conor Russian, who chases every man, including the make you immediately forget that she’s not a pro- 726-2234. Mitchell’s often heart wrenching products of his young Argentinean bridegroom who is on honey- fessional singer. This fact makes the play all the pen. moon. more moving. She’s been guided with fine Joburg Theatre, At the end, this is not a musical - “Sailing She hates the midnight sun in the Northern insights by her director, Vanessa Cooke, while Braamfontein: In the Nelson Somewhere” is far too brave and determined for spheres or the tourists buying “plastic Viking hel- Andrew Botha’s set design is atmosphere Mandela, Manuel Puig’s “Kiss that! - but rather a play with music and lyrics, mets” at the fjords. But most of the time she enhancing. of the Spider Woman”, direct- reflecting on the main protagonist’s emotionally becomes poignantly sad when relating to her own Near the end there is something strangely ed by Lynne Maree; October scarred history. Over time she has removed her- life - beginning with her parents, her first mar- amiss. The denouement is not emphatic enough. 26 - November 6. In the self from those uncomfortable zones life has riage to Mickey, their daughter Zoe, how and why Perhaps we need a song as an epilogue. However, Fringe, “The Chilli Boy”, until placed on her path. she left Mickey, and her hope that by marrying this is just an aside. It does not detract from a November 6, (011) 877-6800. She - her name is never mentioned by the play- Andrew they could become “a complete family”. show that is worthy of its unassuming truths. Linder Auditorium, Parktown: October 19, 20, JPO performs Britten’s “A You want to own these beautiful things Time There Was…” Suite, The plates are so exquisite you might shud- Elgar’s ‘Cello Concerto and Exhibition: “From the Table to the Wall and der at the thought of using them in the conven- Shostakovich’s Ninth Back” (Kim Sacks Gallery, Rosebank, (011) 447- tional sense. Symphony. Conductor: 5804 Don’t, though. The show’s central display is a Bernhard Gueller; soloist: Artist: Clementina van der Walt table set for eight. Each setting comprises a nest Maria Kliegel (‘cello). On Until: October 31 of vessels, in descending size, with a side plate October 26 and 27, like those on the wall, quoting Stern portraits. “Rendering” by Berio and REVIEWED BY ROBYN SASSEN The table is further adorned with two huge Mozart’s Mass in C Minor. PHOTOGRAPH: CLEMENTINA VAN DER WALT vases overflowing with fresh flowers, echoing Conductor: Bernhard Gueller, the audacious red of the bourgainvillea with soloists and choir of VISITING KIM Sacks Gallery for a lover of embracing the gallery’s frontage. Opera Africa, (011) 789-2733. beautiful objects is like visiting an SPCA for a lover of woebegone animals. It’s not because Indeed, this piece was shown at the Irma Market Theatre, Newtown: the things you will see there are sad; it’s Stern Museum in Cape Town last year. True to In the Laager, Craig because in seeing them, you will realise a need the visual ethos for which this gallery is known, Higginson’s “The Girl in the to have them in your life. there’s a seductive concatenation of colour and A duo of jugs by Clementina van der Walt. Yellow Dress” until December The current exhibition by ceramicist vibrancy from all over Africa; while your eye 18, (011) 832-1641. Clementina van der Walt comprises close to 200 might digress in a fit of curiosity to alight on vas to create a texture you will want to eat, oth- objects made for utility and display; it stretches some unspeakably fine beaded panels from ers smooth and pristine, are mounted on clear Montecasino, Fourways: In the beauty and wonder of the medium of mud ancient Chad, you might get the urge to sing or Perspex. the Main Theatre, Alan in every way you can think of. weep at the sight of the red and orange Kente “We are all born mad; some remain so,” is the Committie’s “Happily Ever Here, is a bouquet of mugs, cups and jugs, in clothe displayed behind van der Walt’s “Stern” legend on one. “Ignore the bell”, a bright yellow Laughter”, until October 23. colour so saturated, they feel illegal. There, is a table. tile imperiously instructs. Wonderfully irrever- In the Studio, Sonia wall of decorative plates, each bearing a cheeky And visual feast though this exhibition might ent, the works are wacky in their wisdoms. Esgueira’s “Porralicious!”, face cocking a snook at properness. On another be, the work’s not only focused around the eat- This exhibition is the tip of the iceberg: Using until November 13, (011) 511- wall, three plates bear fine art-redolent faces - ing ritual. There are displays of ceramic pieces the gallery’s vestibule for transient shows, the 1988. you might recognise them: Picasso’s portrait of grouped demurely by colour - black, white and rest of the collection, cherry picking the finest proto-feminist Gertrude Stein is one, an Irma olive works cluster comfortably together on one of African craft, spill delectably all over shelves National Children’s Stern portrait is another, and the unmistakable shelf; ochres and oranges on another. and display cabinets, collectively making you Theatre, Parktown: Joyce face of Mexican surrealist Frida Kahlo, the In another series, two-dimensional oblong remember the value of beautiful things in this Levinsohn and Francois third. works of varying sizes, some rolled against can- world. Theron’s “Pied Piper”, until October 22, (011) 484-1584. players, especially from veteran Nick Nolte es his father and he emphasises this in no Old Mutual Theatre on the FELDMAN who gives the performance of a lifetime as a uncertain terms. Square, Sandton: “Sailing recovering alcoholic Paddy Conlon who is His older brother, Brendan (Joel Edgerton), Somewhere” with Fiona ON FILM divided between his two estranged sons who is a former MMA fighter. He spends his time Ramsay, until October 29. Peter Feldman seethe with resentment and anger. doing a soul-destroying job teaching science at Friday lunchtime concerts: Imbued with a dark, moody look, “Warrior” a public school and needs the extra money oth- Sunset Serenade, October 21; will ensnare the viewer with its raw undercur- erwise he will lose his house. He enters the bru- Goldberg Chamber Players, PICK OF THE WEEK rent of feelings as two brothers, who have also tal competition to win and also to rekindle his October 28, (011) 883-8606. fallen out, get a rare opportunity to change old fighting spirit. Warrior their lives by competing in the extreme sport Brendan has long lost touch with his father State Theatre, Pretoria: In of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). and Tommy and, though many years have since the Opera, Deon Opperman’s Cast: Tom Hardy; Joel Edgerton; Nick Nolte; Sitting in the middle is Paddy the father, passed between these three complex charac- border war musical, “Tree Jennifer Morison who has fallen out with both sons, and who ters, recriminations and past betrayals still Aan”, with Adam Pelkowitz, Director: Gavin O’Connor forms a key element which drives the narra- remain. until November 6, (021) 392- tive. Brendan’s unlikely rise as an underdog soon 4000. “Warrior” is no ordinary fight film. It penetrates Tom Hardy is cast as the haunted Tommy sets him on a collision course in the cage with far deeper in terms of emotion and drive and Riordan, a former Marine with a tragic past Tommy, where the two brothers must finally UJ Arts Centre, Auckland offers some of the most savagely compelling that seems to dog his every action. He returns confront the forces that tore them apart. Park: The world debut of action sequences I’ve seen in a long time. to his hometown of Pittsburgh, down on his Both Hardy and Edgerton make commanding “CrashDance” choreographed And while its storyline may be predictable luck but determined to win the biggest purse leads, but its craggy Nick Nolte’s relentless by Sbonakalisa Ndaba and and a tad contrived, director Gavin O’Connor in the history of the sport. assault on the senses that will be remembered. Redha, performed by has managed to elevate his production to tow- He enlists his father, a former fighter and This is a high-powered sports melodrama Tshwane Dance Theatre, ering heights. coach, to train him, but he doesn’t want it to where no punch is wasted nor one kick go opens October 21 for 10 days, Its success can mainly be attributed to the be an intimate family affair, regarding it astray - and all fuelled by the incessant (011) 559-3058. outstanding contributions made by its lead strictly as a business arrangement. He despis- onslaught of tough men with a mission. 17 - 28 October 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 13 TAPESTRY ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE Some good reads

REVIEWED BY GWEN PODBREY Days That Changed the World by Hywel Not everyone will agree with his through the ages. Dupre offers a basic Williams (Quercus, R134) selection, but the book offers much to explanation of the origins of each one, the When I am Playing With my Cat, How do I ponder. leaders spearheading it and its impact on Know She is Not Playing With Me? by Subtitled “The 50 Defining Events of international events. Saul Frampton (Faber & Faber, R245) World History”, this succinct - but sound- 50 Ideas You Really Need to Know: The themes covered include liberty, jus- ly researched - list scans occurrences Religion by Peter Stanford tice, tyranny, monarchy, Utopianism, In 1570, Michel de Montaigne (aged just which have shaped the course of human (Quercus, R153) imperialism, republicanism, social demo- 37) gave up his job as a magistrate and progress, beginning with the Battle of cracy, communism, isolationism, fascism, retired to his chateau to mourn the deaths Salamis in 480 BC. A very compact, but erudite compendium fundamentalism, constitutions, realism, of his best friend, his brother, his father Through the assassination of Julius of the world’s most important faiths, the globalisation, as well as more modern and - worst of all - his child. Caesar, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, philosophies underpinning them and the concepts such as feminism, the green The stricken Frenchman inscribed a the deaths of Muhammad and Genghis way they have influenced history. The movement and political correctness. A phrase from Lucretius on his library ceil- Khan, the fall of Constantinople, the concepts explored include those of good useful reference, particularly for younger ing: “There is no new pleasure to be defeat of the Spanish Armada, the gradu- versus evil, Mammon, the papacy, Luther- readers. gained by living longer.” However, grief ation of Isaac Newton, the US Declaration anism, Baptism, sects and cults, faith ver- notwithstanding, in the following years he of Independence, the fall of the Bastille sus science, Islam (both orthodox and A Match for Doctor Koekentapp by Allan produced a series of remarkable philo- and the Battle of Waterloo right through fundamentalist), Confucianism, Taoism, Kayle (Umuzi, R155) sophical essays, exploring existence, tem- to Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of Shintoism and - of course - Judaism, seen porality and the effect of sensory experi- the telephone, the writing of Einstein’s not only in its religious teachings, but Young Dr Koekentapp is everything an ence on the soul (including the playful- theory of relativity, the Battle of the also as a creed attracting anti-Semitism. unmarried girl (and her ambitious moth- ness of his cat). Somme, the falling of the Russian Winter While the book cannot explore these er) could ask for: he’s bright, he’s good- In this marvellous analysis of the Palace, the bombing of Hiroshima, the ideas in depth, it provides an excellent looking, he’s decent, he’s successful and essays, Frampton leads us into the heart first moon landing, the release of Nelson platform for younger readers. A he’s respected. The only trouble is, he’s and mind of De Montaigne and his impact Mandela from prison and the terrorist valuable addition to home and school not Jewish. on the Renaissance, Shakespeare and all attacks of September 11, 2001, Williams libraries. Unfazed, Mrs Levy goes to work to of Western literature. Very highly recom- identifies crucial moments which snare the catch for her daughter, enjoin- mended. changed the way we live and think. 50 Political Ideas You Really Need to ing her friends and family to join her con- Know by Ben Dupre (Quercus, R154) spiracy. Not that the young couple needed manipulating: they’ve fallen in love with- Another in the “50 Ideas” series, this vol- out anyone’s help. A light-hearted romp ume explores the seminal ideologies with some all-too-recognisable charac- Simple, rambunctious tale, which defined modes of government ters. told with compassion Show: PorraLicious! (Studio, Montecasino, Fourways (011) Sonia Esgueira. 511-1988) (PHOTOGRAPH Cast: Sonia Esgueira COURTESY MONTE- Director: Helen Iskander and CASINO THEATRE) James Cuningham Playwright: Sonia Esgueira Until: November 13

REVIEWED BY ROBYN SASSEN

YOU MIGHT believe that seri- alising a production can make it tired; Sonia Esgueira’s gently vulgar essay on South African Portuguese culture, now in its fifth season, simply gets better. Meet the Ferreiras, an ordinary South African Portuguese family, living in the southern tutes Paula’s makeup (Veet is her hair suburbs of Johannesburg. They’re five lov- removal cosmetic of choice). Like her ingly-built stereotypes: two parents, two mother, she was raised with a complicated children and a granny. You don’t have to be understanding of the value of Portugal Portuguese to laugh and cry at the oft close to her heart. poignant glints that immigrant culture in Like her older (and slightly hairier) Esgueira’s capable hands reflects. brother Ruiz, she hasn’t yet severed family The storyline is paper thin; but the char- ties, and to make matters more shameful, acters are honed with such evolved and is (still) unmarried. Now in her mid-30s, thoughtful compassionate laughter, you with Ruiz, she’s helping man the family cannot but be swept into the dodgily con- café, while their parents are holidaying in servative family values fraught as they are Madeira. At home is the walker-dependent around an unanticipated anticipated baby. granny who longs, with all her heart, to be It’s about a wedding and a funeral; it’s back in Portugal. also about the torsion in immigrant cul- South African crime punctures things, ture: “to belong, not really here, not really bringing the second generation of Fereiras there,” the father José sums it up, with a back, to ensure the children, parent and depth of focus steering gently between rib- business are fine. And they find more cook- aldry and toilet humour. ing than they expect, by way buns in ovens. Esgueira’s first version of the show The central parts highlighted in this sim- opened in 2004. This one-hander has grown ply rambunctious tale which plaits the under the hand of several directors, culmi- ridiculously funny and the outrageously nating in Iskander and Cuningham, who pathetic, with an overriding intelligence lend the work fresh energy that makes it that never allows it to become pejorative or sing. silly, are a relentless respect for the previ- Esgueira’s characters are so thoughtful- ous generation and a die-hard sense of ly constructed there’s not a moment of homeliness and trustworthiness. ambiguity as she flips between them, evok- Esgueira, an award winning Shakes- ing everything from a conversation in pearean performer, with the wherewithal grunts and nuances to a marriage proposal to be a fine comic in her own right, has mixing bravado with tears. You quickly for- elected to instead take beautiful and inim- get there’s but one performer on stage, sup- itable possession of her own people’s story ported by just four boxes, a geriatric walk- and capitalise on it. And the result is a er and an enamel potty. socio-cultural slice of South Africa like no South African Portuguese culture consti- other. It’s delicious. 14 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011

LETTERS The Editor, Suite 175, Postnet X10039, Randburg, 2125 email: [email protected]

Guidelines for letters: Letters up to 400 words will get preference. Please provide your full first name Disclaimer: The letters page is intended to provide opportunity for a range of views on any and surname, place of residence, and a daytime contact telephone or cell number. We do not publish let- given topic to be expressed. Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not ters under noms de plume. Letters should preferably be e-mailed. Letters may be edited or shortened. necessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff or directors of the Jewish Report BRIXTON JEWISH CEMETERY: SAD DEATH OF A JEWISH LANDMARK WHO IS GOING TO ENFORCE THIS IT WAS indeed an earth-shattering experi- teryear. Furthermore, this cemetery must be main- UTOPIAN STATE? ence when visiting the Brixton Jewish It is believed that a significant number of tained in a befitting manner to honour and Cemetery on Sunday September 25. South adherents of the Jewish community would remember the deceased, many who con- DANIEL MACKINTOSH’S advice on how to African Jewish history and tradition had have readily contributed to a programme of tributed significantly to the development of end the Israel/Palestinian conflict: “Only a been totally eliminated following the com- Yiddishkeit to restore the former glory of the this city and this country. democratic one-state solution will guarantee plete destruction of the previous ohel at this Brixton Jewish Cemetery, especially consid- The loss of the ohel at the Brixton Jewish the human rights of all the people in the cemetery. ering that many of the souls interred in this Cemetery is unforgivable as it cannot be region”. (SAJR October 7), refers. Seriously? A vacant plot of ground had become testi- graveyard had created the wealth currently replaced by a new monument, if this is Democracy? Human rights? Who is going mony to the untimely and unnecessary death enjoyed by the surviving members of these indeed the intention of the Chevrah Kadisha. to enforce such a Utopian state - the tolerant, of a Johannesburg landmark and edifice of families. A new house of worship can never replace democracy-loving Hamas/Fatah/Hezbollah, significant importance to the surviving What better way to say “thank you” than or restore the history, the traditions, and the aided and abetted by the equally tolerant, members of those Jewish relatives who are by re-establishing the ethos and solemnity of human characteristics that were encapsulat- democracy- loving Iran/Syria axis? Will they buried in this holy ground of remembrance. the final resting place of those treasured creed in that wonderfully unique building that all simultaneously undergo a life-changing It is incredible that, despite the despicable ations of “Baruch Hashem”. was the warden of that final resting place of Damascus experience? and malicious vandalising of the ohel in that An efficient and proficient security compa- so many devoted members of “Am Yisroel”. No answers are required. Their violently- cemetery, a restoration programme could ny must be employed to remove the “ungod- destructive, anti-Semitic charters say it all. not be carried out to re-establish a notewor- ly” from transgressing and defiling what is Dr A M Levin David Abel thy reminder of Johannesburg Jewry of yes- G-d’s hallowed ground. Bryanston, Sandton National Vice Chairman Likud SA. George DANIEL MACKINTOSH ACCUSED OF ‘SELF-RIGHTEOUS BIGOTRY’ WHOEVER COINED the phrase: “There are none so blind as those who will not see”, must have had Daniel Mackintosh, and others of his ilk in mind. In my eyes, he is a bigoted, self-righteous intellectual. Trying to curry favour with the South African government and local Muslims, the arguments he puts forward are very selec- tive; he cherry picks those that suit him, much like Steven Friedman, and chooses to ignore the facts that are practically staring him in the eye. The fact that Hamas, Hezbollah and Fatah keep on declaring unequivocally that they intend to kill all Jews and wipe Israel off the face of the earth, seems to escape him, or haven’t they hammered the point home to him often enough, although he charges Israel with being racist, despite Israel being the only democracy in the Middle East and one of the best democracies in the world. Me thinks he has been living in cloud cuckoo land. Mackintosh claims racism in Israel; if the Arabs aren’t racist, then I don’t know. Implicit in his arguments are that Israel can do no right and the Arabs can do no wrong. Israel has been granting concessions all along. It twice agreed to almost 95 per cent of Arab demands. The Arabs demand a state with the selfsame right they refuse the Jews - even though in 1945 the United Nations granted them that state, something they rejected totally in order to attack the Jews. Democratic one- state solution. Huh!? May I assume that Mackintosh is Jewish and that he truly believes in the democratic nature of Arab states (and particularly the one-state solution he supports) in which case may I suggest he goes to live in Syria, Saudi Arabia, Gaza or wherever, for a few weeks, not in tourist hotels, but in middle-class or poor areas.

Jack Miller Gresswold, Johannesburg TAKE YOUR SCHACH TO GARDEN SITES

THAT TIME of year has arrived when good wishes are in order. Shana Tova to our community. Municipal bylaws are part of the laws of the land and according to the Laws of Hefker and Hasagas Gvul, paragraphs 2 and 3, the laws of a country are to be considered as law. This includes, for example, the legality of many Jewish community advertising posters and the problems of illegal dumping. Please remember that after Succot, your schach must be taken to the Pikitup garden sites and not put out for collection on the pavement - this is deemed illegal dumping. Whatever does not fit into your wheelie-bin, must be taken to the dump.

Marcelle Ravid Councillor, Ward 73 City of Johannesburg

FOR THE RECORD IT’S MASEROW AND NOT MAZEROW IN THE article on the Israel Quiz in last week’s paper, the winner Saul Maserow’s name was spelt Mazerow instead of Maserow. We apologise for the error. 17 - 28 October 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 15 COMMUNITY COLUMNS

ordinary members of the public. ABOVE Through the focused informa- Succot - remembering tion on the Jewish community BOARD that we are able to access Mary Kluk, One broader lesson that I feel constantly be struggled for and Many of our community will through the census database, National Chairman we also need to take to heart dur- commit ourselves to finding ways already have been contacted by including where Jews are living, ing this time, is that while, for us, to alleviate their situation in census officials to provide them their overall socio-economic con- A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies living in a fragile, temporary whatever way we, as a communi- with all the detailed information dition and age spreads, we have dwelling is brief and symbolic, ty and as individuals, are able to. needed to fill out the census been in a position to provide THE MITZVAH to dwell in a succ- for so many of our fellow South form. I would like to encourage accurate, reliable answers to ah - a temporary dwelling - during Africans it is the enduring reality Census 2011 all community members to be of such enquiries. the seven days of the Succot festi- of their daily lives. As I write, the latest national as much assistance as they can. While the question on religious val, contains within it many pro- We do not need to travel far population census is well under- Just from the point of view of affiliation is an optional one, we found lessons regarding how our from our own affluent suburbs to way. This vital national project the SAJBD, the national census nevertheless hope very much that lives should be lived. see people compelled to exist in goes well beyond a mere head has proven to be an invaluable through our community’s partici- It is a tangible reminder of how crude, cramped, ad hoc struc- count. It seeks to capture as com- information resource. On a con- pation, we will in due course be temporary our lives in this world tures put together from whatever prehensively as possible a range stant basis, we are approached provided with a suitably detailed are, and therefore how important discarded materials they have of demographic data relating to for information on Jewish South and trustworthy body of informa- it is to focus on those values that been able to gather together. the broader population, includ- Africa, from market researchers, tion that we can refer to with con- really endure - Jewish unity, fami- In celebrating this joyous ing age profiles, education and academics, journalists and com- fidence in the forthcoming ly ties, trust in the Creator, con- Yomtov, let us therefore also income levels, economic activity, munal leaders (particularly those decade. cern for our fellow Jews and others remember those for whom even religious affiliation and place of working in the fields of welfare, that bind us together as a people. the most basic human needs must residence. education or religious affairs) to This column is paid for by the SAJBD LETTERS ‘I NEVER SAID THAT ISRAEL IS WEAK’ CHAIM MYERSON (SAJR October unrelated to what is happening in cial protection for all. 7, “Lack of communal leadership is other countries. Thank Hashem that Israel is frustrating”) is wrong in saying Israel has been able to use its strong, but Israel is increasingly iso- that I said on national radio that mass protests as a showcase for its lated, which can make it vulnerable. Israel was “weak”. democracy, by allowing its citi- While we, the leaders of the commu- I spoke about the need for a zens to vent their feelings in a safe nity, have a responsibility to present negotiated settlement, as opposed and peaceful environment. Israel Israel and its government in the best to a unilateral declaration of is a wonderful example to the light, we have to be sensitive not to Palestinian independence and did world and particularly to the Arab say or do things that could alienate a mention that Israel was not countries, of everything that the segment of our community. immune to the “Arab Revolutions”. so-called “Arab Spring” is striving Even strong and large countries to achieve - equal rights for all eth- Ben Levitas like the US, are experiencing nic and religious groups, no sexu- SAZF (Cape Council) social activist movements, not al discrimination and equal judi- Chairman Our Parents Home residents enjoy tea at Pick n Pay Norwood CELESTE EVERITT PHOTOGRAPH: GLEN MILLER

TWENTY RESIDENTS of Our Parents Home were delighted to attend the monthly tea party held recently at Pick n Pay in Norwood. The event is arranged by the management of Norwood Mall and is intended as a treat for pension- ers. While Pick n Pay sponsored the tea, the prizes were sponsored by Vital, whose representatives talked to the guests about their products. Right: Our Parents Home resident Leah Edelsohn, with a prize that she won. Far right: Our Parents Home resident Lotti Rothschild with a prize that she won. UOS pocket diaries now available THE MUCH sought after UOS nised; school terms; public holi- haftarah; A-Z phone number pocket diaries for 5772 – 2011/2012, days; Jewish holidays; rules of index; birthday list; yahrtzeit list; are now available. candle-lighting; times (Shabbat, note pages; and it’s perfect The UOS says the features fasts, sunrise, sunset, etc) for Yomtov gift! include: 16 month diary from Johannesburg, Cape Town, The diaries are available in September 2011 to December 2012; Durban, Bloemfontein, Pletten- Johannesburg from the UOS (010) Beth Din-recognised mikvaot; berg Bay, Port Elizabeth and East 214-2600, or from Kollel Bookshop Jewish national bodies; welfare London; affiliated synagogues - and House of Judaica, at R60 per and community services; libraries minyan and contact information; diary in Johannesburg. In Durban and museums; festivals and fast Tefillat Haderech (travellers they are available from the DUHC days (prayers and omissions); prayer) with transliteration; (031) 201-5177 and in Cape Town dates weddings cannot be solem- Shabbat and Yomtov parsha and from the UOS: (021) 461-6310. AROUND AUTHOR CHARGED IN JEWISH ONLINE DATING SCAM ATLANTA (Georgia) - American author name Mitchell Graham that include a tril- Mitchell Gross has been indicted for ogy of fantasy fiction books, "The Fifth THE allegedly scamming women he met on an Ring", "The Emerald Cavern" and "The online Jewish dating service. Ancient Legacy". WORLD Gross, 61, of Marietta, Georgia, pleaded In 2006, according to the indictment, NEWS IN not guilty to fraud and money laundering Gross met two women on an unnamed charges when he was arraigned late last online Jewish dating service and bilked BRIEF week in federal court in Atlanta, accord- them out of $4,4 million, convincing them ing to reports. to invest in a fake company he set up. He has written novels under the pen (JTA) 16 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011

YOUTH TALK Alison Goldberg [email protected] Machaneh Shirat Ha Lulavs, etrogs, Yam - about themed made with camp education lots of love OWN CORRESPONDENT LAUREN KESSLER PHOTOGRAPH:SUZANNE BELLING HEAD OF EDUCATION, NETZER SA THREE-YEAR-OLDS from Chana Rivka Lewin’s THE WORD on every Netzernik’s class at Torah Academy Nursery School, show lips is “Machaneh” and as the off their handmade lulavs and etrogs, which they channichim converse with one made for the festival of Succot. another about Netzer’s annually epic summer camp coming up, there is a further deal of informa- “If I was performing on my own, tion about the prestigious camp Upwards and onwards it would be different, but team work name: what it means and why we requires an understanding that we chose it. are all in this together and that if ‘’What is in a name?’’ As the lithe Krinskys move one messes up, we all mess up.” Shakespeare once wrote: “A rose Ten-year-old Gryphon, with a by any other name would smell as SHIRA DRUION show in the final result. glimmer in his eye, comments: sweet.’’ It seems that titles, to the PHOTOGRAPH: ILAN OSSENDRYVER They say that hard work and “Sometimes, it’s scary right up at Bard, are but insignificant beauti- commitment is the name of their the top! Sometimes I wish I was in fiers for the purposes of labelling AN ASTONISHING display of acro- nimble game. “We wake up every Jungly’s place right at the bottom. something. batic talent held the King David morning and invest a good three It’s not nearly as scary down there!” The concern here is that our audience captive as the young hours in perfecting our routines,” The boys are home schooled by camp name - Shirat Ha Yam (Song “journeying” through to the pres- Krinsky brothers - Gryphon, says 13-year-old Kelman. their mother, Patricia. Her reper- of the Sea), might be just as cos- ent day. Jungly and Kelman - moved their The brothers exude a palpable toire of duties ranges from school metic. It has a nice ring to it, rolls Along this journey, we will elastic band bodies to wow the energy as they twist and turn their teaching to costume designing and off the tongue and would work inspire and educate ourselves crowd at the King David Linksfield agile limbs in synchronised rhythm making. She and her troupe are a well with lyrics in the infamous about the evolutionary role of fun day recently. to the music. Their vegetarian diet, formidable team who can get a rou- camp song. women in Judaism, stemming The crowd watched riveted as the they believe, ensures that their bod- tine down pat in no time. But this is not why we chose it. from Miriam and contrasting it Krinskys performed their sensa- ies permit them to perform with the The boys are aware that to be at A camp name, above all, repre- with how women are viewed in tional acrobatic routine with preci- flexibility and smoothness of an the top of their game requires an sents its education theme; it both Jewish and secular society sion and skill. oiled machine. enormous amount of commitment essentially embodies the direction today. The trio is fast becoming the most Says 14-year-old Jungly: “It takes on every level. Kelman comments: of the camp’s educational compo- Another fundamental element impressive group to top the charts discipline and practice to build the “I know we are not like most kids nent, defining its aims, focus and of this overarching journey is to of many a competitive sport, with muscle strength that enables my our age. We are very committed and content. This means that a camp examine what it is that inspires us countless awards and prizes in body to be strong enough to support we have to be, in order to make a name needs to be heavily symbol- to stand up for what we believe in acrobatics, ballet and judo. They the other two. You have to be strong success of our acrobatic career. ic, substantial in meaning and rel- and progress, especially in the spend a large part of most of their to be at the bottom; my strength “We have certainly been able to evant in focus. context of music and the power of days practising and their efforts holds up the others. see that commitment is the only Shirat Ha Yam seems to encom- song. way forward. Some days we feel like pass just this. It immediately Yet another theme embedded in Jungly, practising, and some days we don’t, relates to its Biblical origin of the the title Shirat Ha Yam, is the con- but regardless of this, we get up Gryphon and every morning, raring to go!” Exodus from Egypt, the singing of cept of the ocean or more broadly Kelman are Miriam’s song as the Israelites the environment and the crucial Philip Krinsky, father cum agent, crossed the Red Sea and the jour- role it plays in traditional Jewish excelling with beams with pride as he speaks ney undertaken to reach the thought and in secular society. their acrobatic about his boys and their many Promised Land. This ties in very well with our role feats. achievements. “Last week, the boys Stemming from this historical as Jews, to “repair the world”, completed their grade 5 ballet exam backing, is a set of pertinent finding strategic methods to cre- with honours. The top achievers of themes that this machaneh will be ate a sustainable and healthy rela- the exam were invited to compete in drawing from, to formulate its tionship with nature. the Mabel Ryan Awards, which was overarching education process. Let this article serve as a mere really a feather in their cap.” Thus, there will be a strong tran- taste of the wonderful world of The Krinsky boys are a fascinat- sition from engaging with our themed camp education still to ing combination of sheer talent Biblical Jewish heritage and come. powered by a determined drive to succeed. They are certainly on their way onwards and upwards. YC Primary Elul chesed programme, brings home message of giving OWN CORRESPONDENT asm of the learners was a joy to concert. The grade 5s are now plan- PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED witness. ning a market day to raise money The South African Guide Dog for the feeding scheme at St Vincent THIS YEAR Yeshiva College Pri- Association sent a representative to School. mary School embarked on a won- speak to the grade 3s. The learners Following on from last year’s derful chesed programme to mark then collected dog food and treats to chesed programme where the the month of Elul. Each grade in assist the Association. grade 5s in 2010 (now our grade 6 the school participated in this proj- The grade 4s have been promot- learners) hosted the Glenhazel ect with their own programmes. ing diabetes awareness. As they Primary School grade 5 learners, The grade 1s had a wonderful were given a talk by “Youth with Glenhazel will now host our grade 6 demonstration from Hatzolah, Diabetes”, they are hosting a genes learners. where they were shown all the dif- (jeans) day which allowed learners The learners are putting together ferent parts of the ambulance. They to wear jeans on October 5. gift bags for each of the grade 6 were given tzedakah boxes to fill The monies raised will go to learners at Glenhazel Primary for and return to school. “Youth with Diabetes”. their visit. All of the learners from The grade 2s visited the Chevrah The grade 5s were privileged to grade 1 to 6 are walking away from Kadisha and Yad Aharon to assist attend a performance by the St this chesed programme with a won- in the packing of their food boxes Vincent School for the Deaf choir. derful feeling of giving in their for Rosh Hashanah. The enthusi- The learners were enthralled by the hearts.

Yeshiva College learners together with learners from the St Vincent School for the Deaf. 17 - 28 OCTOBER 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 17

Welcome to the exotic polyglot called Hawaii

ROBYN SASSEN Neumann had distinguished himself politi- Hawaii’s Jewry evolved a cuisine with the koa wood. This congregation has drifted over cally in Hawaii, as the government’s attorney- support of the Jewish Federation, to make the years. It has conducted Shabbat services FOR MANY, any thought of Hawaii imme- general. He became one of the royal advisers kosher wine available on the island, but also at various venues. diately conjures up bikinis, palm fronds and of the Kingdom of Kalakaua, and was anec- to include a mélange of traditional European- Shul services were sporadic, often held cocktails with small paper umbrellas in them, dotally understood to have outbid the king in oriented Jewish dishes like gefi lte fi sh, made once a month. The leader of the services is imbibed at leisure on breathtakingly beautiful poker, rendering him bankrupt. with Hawaiian food such as mahi-mahi (the generally a member of the community, with beaches. Just before the turn of the 20th century, common dolphin fi sh), ahi (yellowfi n tuna) the occasional visit of a guest rabbi. The com- This archipelago in AmericanA colonists and ono (game fi sh, also known as wahoo),), for munitym remains “staunchly the Central Pacifi c Ocean, overthrew the pre-ex- instance. non-affin liated” and com- America’s youngest state, istingi Hawaiian king- In 1985, the con- mentsm on its website that it in fact also houses a di- dom.d History tells that gregation acquired its feelsf fortunate to have re- verse population of over beforeb the islands’ an- fi rst own Torah from ceived “teaching, guidance one million, and a vi- nexation, many Jews the once-thriving Jew- anda wisdom from learned brant and active young had built a life for them- ish community of Pol- rabbisr originating from Jewish community, fed selves there, but it was no in what is now the alla of Judaism’s principle by six enthusiastically not until late in the 20th Czech Republic. It had strands”.s supported synagogues. century that the com- fortuitously been stored Strictly hotel-based, Polynesians fi rst set mmunity began to unite by Nazis for an intended untilu last year, has been foot on the islands now aand resonate with Jewish museum to an extinct Chabad of Hawaii, situ- known as Hawaii, 1 500 The beautiful Waikiki coastline. ppractices. race, and after the war ated in Waikiki for over years ago. They gradu- PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY WWW.THEBESTBEACH.NET Hawaii in the 20th was taken to London for 202 years. Largely cater- ally became inhabited century remained un- safe-keeping. The Pearl Harbour memorial, Hawaii. ingi to holidaymakers,

by settlers from nearby dder Western rule and The manner in which WWW.ANDERS.COM BROWNWORTH. ANDERS BY PHOTOGRAPH butb representing the Tahiti, who brought ggoverned by a Western Hawaii Jewry was bur- onlyo Jewish Orthodox their pagan value sys- economy; its main pro- geoning at the time, war- port of call in Hawaii, tem to bear on the area’s duce, sugar and pine- ranted the permanent the Chabadniks on the islands are well- culture. It was from apples,a brought an infl ux loan of this Torah, which is over 250 years equipped, offering three shul services a day, these early days that Ha- ofo Chinese, Japanese, old. glatt kosher meals and a complex and satisfy- waiians began to develop FilipinoF and Portuguese In 2001, the Jewish congregation of Maui ing array of cultural and educational activi- surfi ng, a sport they ex- immigrantsi to work the built the synagogue’s fi rst Aron Kodesh. It ties, enhanced by the uniquely accomplished cel in. farms.f This mix of im- was designed by Monty Breier, of Hawaiian and committed nature of locals. Colonisation by West- migrantm ethnicities is erners began in the late whatw makes Hawaii’s 18th century, bringing populationp so diverse disease and Christianity today.t to the locals, in that order, Guardian Kii made of wood, dating She exploded onto thus rendering her a port back close to 1 500 years ago, at the thet political spotlight for seamen, traders and Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National WWW.AMAZING-WORLD-VAIBHAV.BLOGSPOT.COM COURTESY PHOTOGRAPH ono December 7, 1941, whalers. Historical Park. when the Japanese The 19th century also launched a surprise saw evolution in an under- attack on Pearl Har- standing of prospects of bourb in Oahu, which wealth, and people began eventuallye led to the to migrate from Europe culminationc of the Sec- to “The New World” in ond World War. The US general and California battleship, Missouri, in particular, following still rests in Pearl Har- the outbreak of “gold fe- bour. ver” in that area, which Gradually, the pock- happened also to be the et-sized community of Hawaii’s fi rst mikvah, built by Chabad JewsJ in Hawaii began nearest bit of continen- Hawaii, 2010. tal America to Hawaii. tot fl ourish in terms of At this time Jewish ritual function and com- pioneers began to ap- PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY CHABADOFHAWAIIMIKVAH.BLOGSPOT.COM munal gatherings. The pear in ships’ passenger lists en route to fi rst recorded barmitzvah Hawaii for both recreational and business rea- was in 1973. sons. A branch of a Californian bank opened One contact led to another. In 1975, the in Honolulu around this time; Jews began to fi rst High Holy Days services were hosted, at- settle sporadically from the mid-1850s, quick- tended by 85 locals. This was the fi rst service ly rising to the cream of society, in banking, of the unaffi liated Aloha Beth Shalom Syna- business and law, initially. gogue, forerunner of today’s Kona Beth Sha- By the late 1880s, German descendant Paul lom community.

Tips for when you visit Hawaii

• In order to visit Hawaii, you need an American visa, which costs $100. The US Embassy in South Africa is in Pretoria (012) 431-4000; there are US consulates in Sandton, (011) 290-3000; Cape Town, (021) 702-7300 and Durban, (031) 305-7600. • In visiting Hawaii, you do not need to worry about diseases, climate or crime, but you do need to come with a healthy respect for the ocean. • The weather in Hawaii is tropical and while rain can be anticipated between November and March, the weather all year round is mild to very warm. • In Hawaii, the primary spoken languages are English and Hawaiian, and a blend of the two in a form of “pidgin”. • Hawaii is a state of America and operates with the American dollar. At the time of going to press, one US dollar will cost you R8,32. • As Hawaii is vulnerable to natural disasters like volcanoes and tsunamis; civil defence warnings (a steady siren tone for three minutes, repeated as necessary) is the means the state uses to alert its residents of impending danger. • Traffi c in Hawaii is on the right hand side. • Electricity in Hawaii, like in the continental United States, is 120 volts and 60 hertz. Plugs are the same as those suitable for use in America: the standard grounded socket, with two fl at pins. • Hawaii prides itself on the taste and quality of its tap water, which is fi ltered through vol- canic rock, and lacks the chlorine taste of most processed waters in the Western world. • Johannesburg is 12 hours ahead of Hawaii, which does not observe Daylight Saving Time. 18 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 - 28 October 2011

WHAT’S ON Sharon Akum [email protected]

DEADLINE PLEASE NOTE: Deadline for all entries is 12:00 on the Friday prior to publication, without exception.

ORGANISATIONS, VENUES, CONTACT DETAILS, on Wednesdays at 10:00. R350 for the course or R50 per Contact Lucille (011) 791-5226 or 082-927-5786. [email protected] • United Sisterhood, 38 Oxford Rd Parktown. Contact COST shiur. • ORT and ORT JET South Africa - 44 Central Street, Cnr • South African Jewish Board of Deputies (Johannesburg) - Marian (011) 646-2409. www.unitedsisterhood.co.za. • FFHS - Friendship Forum for Holocaust Survivors, 10th Ave, Houghton, contact (011) 728-7154. Beyachad, 2 Elray St, Raedene. Contact (011) 645-2500 or • Tiyulim (Jewish Outdoor Club). Contact Martin 082-965- • Beit Emanuel Progressive Synagogue, 38 Oxford Road, Second Generation and Members of the Community • Preview Theatre - 9 Valerie Crescent, Bagleyston, (011) (011) 645-2523. 7419 or Greg 082-959-9026. Parktown. Affected by the Holocaust. Presentations held at the 640-1061. • SA Zionist Federation (SAZF), Johannesburg - Beyachad, • Union of Jewish Women (UJW), Jhb, 1 Oak Street • JJRC - Johannesburg Jewish Resource Centre (Formerly Gerald Horwitz Lounge, Golden Acres, 85 George Ave, • Rabbi Cyril Harris Community Centre (RCHCC) and Great 2 Elray St, Raedene. Contact Froma, (011) 645-2505. Houghton. Contact (011) 648-1053, fax 086 273-3044. Beyachad Resource Centre/Library), 2 Elray St, Sandringham. Park Shul, Oaklands, Jhb. Contact Hazel, (011) 728-8088 • Israel Centre. Contact Debbie (011) 645-2560. Cost R15 for the Friendship Luncheon Club and a R20 Raedene. Norma Shulman, phone: (011) 645-2567, e- • HOD - Hebrew Order of David International, HOD Centre or Rene Sidley (011) 728-8378. Cost usually R50, includ- • Jewish National Fund (JNF), Beyachad, 2 Elray St, donation for lectures unless otherwise stated. mail: [email protected] Oaklands Road, Orchards. Office, (011) 640 3017 or ing refreshments. Raedene. Contact Crystal Kaplan, 083-376-5999. • Union of Jewish Women (UJW), CT, (021) 434-9555 or • Bikkur Cholim - Jewish Society for Visiting the Sick, (new [email protected] • SAIJE - Sandton Adult Institute of Jewish Education, • Jewish Outlook. Contact Ryan Cane. Support line: 27 76 e-mail [email protected]. details) Athol House, 128 Athol Street, Highlands North, • JAFFA - Jewish Accommodation for Fellow Aged, tel (012) Sandton Shul, e-mail: [email protected], tel (011) 215 8600, website www.jewishoutlook.org.za or e-mail • UJW CT AED Programme at Stonehaven, Albany Road, 2192. Joy Gafin (011) 440-3606. 346-2007/8, 42 Mackie St, Bailey’s Muckleneuck. 883-4210. [email protected]. Sea Point, 10:00 for 10:30. Entrance: R20 (incl refresh- • CAJE - College of Adult Jewish Education, Sydenham • Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre (JHGC), tel • Second Innings, Jhb - Jewish Community Services - • Jewish Women’s Benevolent Society (JWBS) - ments). Highlands North Shul, (011) 640-5021. (011) 640-3100, e-mail: [email protected] Donald Gordon Centre, 85 George Ave Sandringham. At Sandringham Gardens, 85 George Ave Sandringham. • United Zionist Luncheon Club (UZLC), Jhb - Our Parents • CARE (Chabad Addiction Rehabilitation Centre) Cell: 079- • KDSF - King David Schools’ Foundation. King David the Gerald Horwitz Lounge, Golden Acres, every Sunday Contact Carolyn Sabbagh, (011) 485-5232. Home. Contact Gloria, (011) 485-4851 or 072-127-9421. 882-6776.Fax: 086 551 4485 or e-mail: Alumni [email protected], (011) 480-4723. morning for tea at 10:00, followed by the meeting at • Simcha Friendship and Cultural Circle (SFCC), • UOS - Union of Orthodox Synagogues, (011) 485-4865, e- [email protected], hotline: 0861 111 770. • Nechama Bereavement Counselling Centre - Room A304, 10:30. Contact Grecia Gabriel (011) 532-9718. Cost: R20 Johannesburg - Sandton Shul. Contact Sylvia Shull, mail: [email protected], fax 086-610-3442. • CSO - Emergency phone number 086 18 000 18. 3rd Floor, Hospital Wing, Sandringham Gardens, 85 members, R40 non-members. (011) 783-5600. Meetings on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd • WIZO Jhb - Beyachad, 2 Elray St Raedene, Contact Joyce • ELBM - Emunah Ladies Beit Midrash, 60 Mejon St George Ave, Sandringham. Contact (011) 640-1322. • SA Friends of Beit Halochem: Beyachad, 2 Elray St, Wednesday each month at Sandton Shul at 10:00 Chodos (011) 645-2548 or Sandy Kramer (011) 645- Glenhazel, (011) 887-2910. “Lessons of our Lives” course • New Friendship Ladies’ Group - a group for single women. Raedene. Contact Leanne (011) 645 2553 or e-mail: unless stated otherwise. 2515 or e-mail: [email protected].

Today, Monday (October 17) (mornings only). budgeting course (starting today) with the focus on professor and businessman, who will speak on budgeting, money management skills and investment “Einstein’s Views on Judaism and Spirituality”. Time: • UJW adult education programme hosts Prof John Wednesday (October 19) plans. Donations appreciated. Bookings or more info, 10:00 for 10:30. Venue: The Gerald Horwitz Lounge, Lubbe, former professor of Semitics at Unisa, on “The • UJW adult education department hosts Arlene call Lara: (011) 532-9793. Golden Acres. Dead Sea Scrolls. Part 4. The Community Rule Who is Bernstein, former head of LifeLine, who will talk on a Jew?” Time: 09:30. “How the Mature Woman Can Survive and Cope with • WIZO Cyrildene Card morning at Beyachad. Cost per • WoW is bringing back renowned educationist Gavin person R80. To book your morning or afternoon Keller who will speak at various times today and • WIZO Ilanit branch hosts a “Teenage Pamper Day”. Life in Johannesburg”. Time 09:30. game, phone Crystal, 083-376-5999. tomorrow at the Sydenham Shul Community Centre, Cost per person R150. Starting at 09:30. Bookings: Sunday (October 23) on brain-based education. He will also speak tomor- Andrea, 083-677-8999. Thursday (October 27) • Second Innings hosts Tony Bentel on piano, Gerrit row. Cost: R50 per session. For information call • Chabad Succot party for seniors. A movie, followed Koorsen on cello, and Marli Labuschagne on flute in a • UJW CT Women’s Resource Centre presents “Voices Mandy 083-380-5268. by entertainers Tony Bentel, Helen Heldenmuth and programme, “Music of Passion”. Time: 10:00 for 10:30. from Africa” at 09:30. Entrance: R190. Venue: Moyo, Monday (October 31) Magical Marc, plus good food. Entrance free. Time Venue: The Gerald Horwitz Lounge, Golden Acres. Stellenbosch Wine Estate. Enquiries: (021) 434-9555. 10:00 when movie starts, onwards. Booking essential. • WoW is hosting renowned educationist Gavin Keller • WIZO Etgar branch “Annual Garden Day”. Three spectac- Friday (October 28) Phone (011) 440-6600 or [email protected] who will speak on brain-based education at various ular gardens on show. Cost per person R180. Speaker: • The United Zionist Luncheon hosts Jewish Report’s times today and tomorrow, at the Sydenham Shul Tuesday (October 18) “Ludwig - the Rose King”. Bookings: Marion 083-326- arts editor Robyn Sassen who will speak on, “Doo Community Centre. Cost: R50 per session. For infor- 3791. Starting time (at the first garden) at 09:45. • Emunah Ladies raffle, R100, 14:30 at the home of Bee Doo: Scatting by Jews”. mation call Mandy 083-380-5268. Judy Moritz. Contact (011) 483-1005 Ethne. Wednesday (October 26) • Chevrah Kadisha Social Services’ Domestic • JNF is hosting award-winning Israeli chefs, “Taste of • WIZO’s annual Rebecca Sieff awards and World WIZO • The Eighth Franz Auerbach Interfaith Memorial Violence Support Group, is holding an 8 week sup- Peace” at Summer Place, at a dinner to pay tribute to Bible Day. Speaker: Rebbetzen Aidel Kazilsky. Starting Lecture takes place at Beit Emanuel Progressive port group (starting today) for women who are, or Abe Krok, where they “will cook up a storm”. Contact time: 09:30 for 10:00. Bookings: Sandy (011) 645-2548. Synagogue, 38 Oxford Road, Parktown, junction of have been in abusive relationships. The group, which the JNF offices on (011) 645-2541 to book your seats Oxford Road and Third Avenue, entrance in Third or table. Wednesday (October 19) will be facilitated by a social worker, offers a safe and Avenue, at 19:30. Reverend Faith Whitby of the confidential space where women can gain information • UJW adult education programme hosts Prof Barry • UJW Cape Town adult education division hosts Ilana Methodist Church, Kensington, Johannesburg, will and support. No charge. Bookings or more info, call Fabian, professor emeritus at Wits School of Molecular, Skolnik, formerly known as Ellen Peters, Miss Africa speak on “Living from the Inside Out. Light refresh- Jacqui: (011) 532-9732. Cell Biology and Anatomical Sciences, and Johannri ments after the lecture. RSVP to facilitate catering on South, who will talk on “Connection of a Jewish Soul”. Sunday (October 30) Engelbrecht, a clinical psychologist, who will speak on Venue: Stonehaven. Time: 10:00 for 10:30. Entrance: (011) 646-6170 or email [email protected] “All Real Living is Meeting”: Martin Buber’s influence on R20 (incl refreshments). Enquiries:(021) 434-9555 • Chevrah Kadisha Social Services is offering a 6 week • Second Innings hosts David Lubinsky, Wits maths a biologist and a psychologist. Time: 09:30. THE BRIDGE LOUNGE by Jeff Sapire CROSSWORD NO 229

MOST BRIDGE players know what a enter, so 5H looks reasonable. BY LEAH SIMON “Goulash” is. The most common varia- 4) East also has an easy bid – when your ACROSS: 16. Aberhann exempted, concealing addition is when the cards are not shuffled partner shows an 8 card suit and you 1. Jumps for beer ingredient (4) tional suite of rooms (6) from the previous deal, and the dealer have support, even two or three 3. I am separated, having communicated it (8) 18. Able for nothing, due to illness (5) gives each player first five consecutive trumps will do, so you dare not defend. 8. Pull out plug and swallow hard (4) 19. Global analogue and digital imaging com- cards, followed by three each, and then 5) This is one of the key bids in the auc- 9. Get rope in east for female mentee (8) pany gets a fag (4) another five. While it is not in accordance tion. South should bid 5NT, showing 11. Bans on performances could even bring the with the Laws of Bridge, it very often gen- both minors and clearly an extremely house down! (4, 8) SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD NO 229 erates highly distributional hands that distributional hand. Given that he 13. Half redundant, concealing the boy (6) lead to unusual bidding and play. passed originally, and partner showed 14. Somehow I saved it, and offer suggestions ACROSS: Goulashes can provide a lot of fun, pro- just a heart suit, the shape here has to (6) 1. Inch; 3. Penchant; 8. Sure; 9. Admonish; 11. vided everyone has a good sense of be 6-6 or 7-6. 17. Assisting the card-player? (7, 1, 4) Click and drag; 13. Recipe; 14. Punter; 17. Rise humour, but on a more serious note they 6) A disciplined West will pass – remem- 20. Make gourd end badly, being securely and shine; 20. Realised; 21. Skin; 22. Thoughts can be pretty instructive in gaining some ber a pre-emptor is not supposed to bid anchored (8) 23. Bets. insight into the real “freak” hands. again. 21. God of thunder heads north - almost (4) Today’s hand is an example of this, where 7) 6D – partner asked for preference to 22. Lays Sean down and examines each section DOWN: the cards were dealt normally. the better minor. (8) 1. Insecure; 2. Cardiac 4. Ending; 5. 8) This is where the guessing games South dealer, neither vul 23. Guide gets a bad deal (4) Cloudburst; 6. Anita; 7. TOHA; 10. begin. Firstly, just who is sacrificing, is NORTH Skippering; 12. Ardennes; 15. Trickle; 16. it us or them? On freaks like this, 7 DOWN: Infest; 18. Idaho; 19. Brat. where there is doubt, the insurance KJ105432 1. Soprano notes, action is to bid “one more”. When no- KQJ we hear, in the 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 one at the table is clear on what is hap- AJ main (4, 4) pening, bidding 6S is the right two-way WEST EAST 2. Succeed in shot. 6S may make or may turn out to AKJ105432 Q986 removing gar- be a cheap save against 6D. 9876 AQ ment (4, 3) 9) The roulette wheel keeps spinning. 2 876 4. Ruin, having 8 9 South has the same thoughts as East. - Q532 obtained the Can they make 6S? How expensive will SOUTH girl (6) 10 7D be? It’s impossible to know, but - 5. Somehow once again, the concept of “when in - painted on doubt, bid one more” is probably the 11 A109543 article – not way to go. So 7D it is! K1098764 the end of the 10) West and North will pass, so it is East world, but the 12 Before we try to figure out who should who will face the final, big decision, other side of bid what, note that East/West make a and I’d hate to be in his shoes. The it! (10) small slam in spades, and North/South a winning action is to double and lead a 13 14 15 6. Anti-German, small slam in diamonds! In fact, 7D club, but this is not easy. At this vul- but hides ani- played by South is makeable, or by North nerability, he may well decide to take 16 mal (5) if East fails to lead a club. Though no-one out some ‘further insurance’ and bid 7. A buck? is ever going to be able to foresee these 7S. Sounds expen- 17 18 possibilities during the bidding, let’s try If so, it’s hard to say if this will be dou- sive! (4) to see how the auction may go. bled (North/South really have no idea 10. Any dances 1) The first question is - should South whether or not they have any defensive 19 around 100, open the bidding? I’d say no, because tricks), but it’s going to go one down, no having the this hand will be far easier to describe matter what the lead. Who said bridge advantage (10) 20 21 later, if the opponents open, by bidding was a boring game? 12. Made a gen- the unusual 2NT (or higher, perhaps Every Tuesday (Intermediate) and tle bid (8) 4NT) to show both minors. Wednesday (Advanced) I run bridge work- 15. Novel by Sir 2) West’s decision is clear cut, and most shops from 10:00-12:oa and 4th Avenue, Walter Scott red blooded players would open 4S. Houghton. For more information, e-mail 22 23 (7) 3) North simply has too much not to me at [email protected] 07 - 28 October 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 19 LIFTS FOR SALE AROUND THE WORLD EXCELLENT, RELIABLE MISCELLANEOUS NEWS IN BRIEF DRIVER AT YOUR SERVICE BROOKLYN SIGNS ASK JEWISH To lift you anywhere/ ISRAELI anytime 24 hours. PRE-PAID WOMEN TO STEP ASIDE FOR MEN Call Gershon 071-974-5573. SIM CARDS NEW YORK - Yiddish signs briefly Classifieds Have your own Israeli sprouted on Brooklyn trees asking To book your classified notice or advert contact: Tel (011) 023-8160, Fax 086-634-7935, email: [email protected] EX-ISRAELI SERVICEMAN phone number. Jewish women to step aside when a man walks down the sidewalk. 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Cardinal errors cost the Back injury ends Peer’s Boks World Cup match 2011 prematurely JACK MILNER A DISAPPOINTING had really hoped to end SO, WE are out of the 2011 season has come to the season with two suc- 2011 Rugby World Cup a premature end for cessful tournaments in at the quarter-finals Shahar Peer, Israel’s Europe. Fortunately, the stage, going down 9-11 brightest female tennis stress fracture was diag- to Australia. Like most star, after she was diagnosed at an early stage South Africans, I was nosed with a stress frac- so the injury isn’t sup- disappointed but not ture in her back, ruling posed to be too serious.” surprised. From the her out of action for Peer, who was knocked moment we chose our four weeks. out in the first round of squad we were an exit The 24-year-old, who the China Open two waiting to happen. failed to make it past the weeks ago, the seventh Unlike well-versed second round in 10 of time this year she was aficionados like Dan her past 12 tourna- sent packing in an open- Retief and Naas Botha ments, had suffered ing round of a tourna- whose rugby knowl- from pain in her back The year 2011 ended on a dis- ment, will rest the next edge is astounding, I over the last two weeks appointing note for Israeli ten- four weeks before do not consider myself while playing and train- nis star Shahar Peer. resuming training in and my opinions to be Springbok captain John Smit waves goodbye after his team ing in Tokyo and Israel ahead of a pre-sea- the last word on rugby. lost their Rugby World Cup quarter-final match against Beijing. son camp in the US at the end of the year. However, I have been Australia at Wellington on Sunday. However, the stress fracture in a verte- “After a long season I’m happy to be involved in sports (PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED) bra in her lower back was only diagnosed back in Israel for almost two months,” journalism in general last week after she flew to Israel to be said Peer, who is set to drop out of the for long enough to make certain observa- As rugby guru Dan Retief put it so elo- checked out at the Sheba Medical Centre world’s top-30 next week for the first time tions. quently on his website, danreturf.com, in at Tel Hashomer. since 2009. “But of course I’m really The first rule of any World Cup - be it his preview of the match: “It is a team in “I’m very disappointed to be ending the looking forward to getting back to the cricket, soccer or rugby - is: leave your which seemingly no cognisance has been season like this,” said Peer, who was court, working hard and beginning next injured players at home. Having observed a taken of the particular threat that may scheduled to complete this year with season a healthier and better player.” - number of World Cups in different sports I be offered by Australia. It is a team that tournaments in Linz and Luxembourg. “I Jerusalem Post. have yet to find one seriously injured play- says: `We will play our way and to hell er from any country anywhere in the world with any other considerations.’ to run into form in a World Cup. “It is a team high on experience but It does not happen and as such Bakkies distinctly short on the pace that might be Botha should not have been allowed to go. required to curb the frisky Australians. We made the same mistake with Henry (Peter) De Villiers and his fellow coaches Honiball a number of years ago and his seem to have become obsessed with entire contribution to the serious part of counting the caps in their combinations - World Cup 1999 was to come on as a substi- almost as if stacking up caps represents tute, some 20 minutes from the end of their some kind of unassailable formula that semifinal encounter which they lost 21-27 petrifies other teams.” to (you guessed it) Australia. I am not suggesting that the guys did He started in the most pointless match in not give their hearts and souls in their any World Cup - the playoff for third or quest for victory. The question is fourth place - but at that stage, who cares. whether somebody else could have car- Straight after that playoff against the All ried out the job a little better. Blacks, Honiball retired from international Finally, I have to talk about South rugby. Africa’s favourite pastime. For those of And therein lies our second faux pas. you who think it is rugby, soccer, cricket It appears that South African players or even gambling I’ve got news for you. It dictate to the selectors when they intend to isn’t. This nation’s favourite pastime is call it a day. Generally World Cups seem “Blame the Ref”. the perfect milestone and how many times We have never lost a match in our lives have we heard rugby/soccer players and - in any sport. The referee/umpire has cricketers, announce they will retire after cost us. All I heard during the couple of the World Cup. days preceding the match was how excit- Too many of our sportsmen have gone a ing it was that Bryce Lawrence was going World Cup too far and they have been to referee the encounter. When the allowed to do so by the powers that be. match was over all I heard was - as I We’ve had some great players and captains, knew it was going to be: “The ref cost us but unfortunately by the time the World the match.” Cup comes around, they have passed their Well, I have news for you. Lawrence “sell-by” dates. did not miss Pat Lambie’s attempted I am strongly in the camp that suggests drop kick, nor did he injure the already that John Smit should not have been at this injured Heinrich Brussow, nor did he World Cup at all. He has been a great play- cause any of our knock-ons, and most er and an even better captain, but he was importantly, he was not responsible for never going to lead up to another World the penalty conceded by Danie Rossouw Cup victory. that James O’Connor converted to give For all those who said I was wrong Australia back the lead and, in the end, before, I can offer them in response the the match. comment made by the eminent Dr Elena As Smit himself said: “We went into Thomas, stalwart Latin teacher at King the second half saying we would hold David Linksfield for so many years. onto the ball. In phases, we did that and “Results speak for themselves,” she used to we had a couple of missed opportuni- tell us, and she was spot on. ties.” It would be so much better for his reputa- Questionable tactics also played their tion to have retired a match too early than part and the roles of coach Peter de a match too late. At the recent Syd Nomis Villiers and the other formulators of the Benefit dinner, former Bok captain Dawie game plan have some issues to answer. de Villiers hinted at this and he implied In the end, though, missed opportuni- that if Smit really wanted to lead from the ties and some basic errors cost South front, he would recognise the moment Africa a place in the semifinals. There is when he needed to step off the stage and no remarks column in the history books. hand over the mantle. But, as the expres- All it will show is that the Wallabies sion goes, pride cometh before a fall, and were just two points better than us on the Boks fell. the day.