friday 12 october 2012 / 26 Tishrei 5773 volume 16 - number 36 news opinion letters tapestry community columns youth sports south african Some good reads. (page 11) jewish report www.sajewishreport.co.za Netanyahu announces early Knesset elections JERUSALEM - Israeli PM Benja- lution to dissolve. said: “Today, I finished a round of the deficit, which would quickly min Netanyahu on Tuesday an- Netanyahu held meetings last consultations with the heads of put us in the situation of the nounced early national elections. week and on Tuesday with the the coalition parties and I came to crumbling economies of Europe. I He said elections for the 19th heads of the other parties in his the conclusion that it is not pos- will not allow this to happen here. Knesset would be held a year early. government coalition to decide sible at this time to pass a respon- “At this time, in light of the Though a date has not yet been whether to work to pass the 2013 sible budget. two great upheavals around us, announced, it is expected that the budget or go to early elections. “We are on the threshold of the security and the economic, my vote will be held in early 2013. Going to elections without an election year; to my regret, in obligation as prime minister is to A February election will be an approved budget means the an election year it is difficult for put the national interest above four years since the last Knesset ministries will operate on the 2012 parties to place national interest everything and therefore, I have election. The Knesset will return budget. A new budget would have ahead of party interest. The result decided that the good of the State on October 15, after which the seen deep cuts in many ministries. of this is liable to be a budgetary of Israel requires going to elections government likely will pass a reso- In a statement, Netanyahu breach and a massive increase in now, as soon as possible.” (JTA)

BLUMENTHAL: Jewish philanthropy: Charity or reparations? We cannot afford the level of influence Succot in Jerusalem which the “bleeding hearts” have over the Jewish corporate sector in this country. 8 SAKS: Efforts underway to deny Jewish people their august history It is sometimes useful to simply turn the other side’s propaganda on its head. “See how little of our ancestral homeland had been liberated by 1946, compared with how most of it was back in Jewish hands by 1967 and nearly all of it by today,” I would say. 8 SA Medical Assocation issues pleas for

Professor Cyril CourtesyPhoto: TheKotel Karabus’ release from UAE jail

3 Strategic investment in Israel’s new war Now, the main arena - the “Durban strategy”, which emerged at a 2001 UN conference in Durban - is a battle over the legitimacy of the very existence of Israel. Because the struggle is no longer physical, international financial support Israel’s Sephardi Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar leading the Cohanim prayer during the Jewish holiday of Succot at the Western Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem on October 3. has become critical. 6

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Shabbat Times Oct 12 / 26 Tishrei Commit ourselves to one more good deed Oct 13/ 27 Tishrei This Shabbat is referred to as Shab- not think I would fit them in and food you will no longer eat. Parshat Bereishit bat Bereishit. We begin reading somehow managed to put them on Shabbos is 24-hours. A 17:55 18:45 Johannesburg the Torah anew to be finished by just before sunset. person can resolve to keep 18:15 19:33 Cape Town next Simchat Torah. To many this “I carried through with my certain parts of it, like com- 17:46 18:37 Durban PARSHAT BEREISHIT is considered the first “proper” commitment and felt uplifted by mitting to keep Friday night, 18:05 18:56 Bloemfontein Rabbi Alex Carlebach 18:05 19:04 Port Elizabeth Shabbat of the year, as it is the first it. I know I’m making a connection saying the family will assem- Chabad of Lyndhurst 18:01 18:54 East London Shabbat not interrupted by the with my Creator and it boosts my ble for Kiddush. The TV and Festivals, as well as the beginning day. Last year I resolved to wear other electrical gadgets will be off. connects us with that Infinite. KASHRUT ALERT of the Torah reading cycle. tzitzit every day. I’m able to ob- What is important is to realise The moments you spend doing SOME SALLY WILLIAMS NOUGATS There is a well-known Chassidic serve this without feeling conspic- that when it comes to all matters a mitzvah, may feel like just a INCORRECTLY LABELLED vort: “Vee men shtelt zich avek uous as most people are not even of Yiddishkeit, it is not an all or couple of minutes; what differ- The kashrut department of the Union of Shabbat Breishis azoi geit dem aware that I have them on. nothing issue. We should stop ence does it make one way or the Orthodox Synagogues announces that gantzen yohr. (The way you set “Rabbi, what should I under- focusing along those lines and other? Spiritually during those some batches of Sally Williams 125g yourself up this Shabbos, so goes take this year?” My reply was that rather realise that every mitzvah is moments you are performing a Dark Chocolate enrobed Nougat, a parev the rest of the year.)” there are certain mitzvoth that significant, not merely a good start mitzvah, you are connecting to product, have been made with milchik Let me share a phone call I re- are “yes” or “no”, like putting on - it is a great thing in and of itself. the Infinite. chocolate. These batches, however, still ceived shortly before Yom Kippur: tefillin or wearing tzitzit. Then The Lubavitcher Rebbe explains What appears to you as rather bear the parev logo. “Rabbi,” he says, “two years ago I there are mitzvoth that are more one reason why it is so significant small in significance, is perhaps The affected batch codes are decided to make a commitment complex and it is just not saying to do a mitzvah. The word mitzvah the most significant you can do 30112013 and 31122013. to Yiddishkeit and after some a simple yes or no to them, but in addition to commandment, for your own and your family’s Sally Williams has rectified this error deliberation, I committed myself to rather they are mitzvoth that can also means connection; when we souls, and connecting to the Infi- and future batches will revert to parev. putting on tefillin every day. be done in stages, for example perform a mitzvah, we are actually nite. So, this Shabbat Bereishit, This only applies to the mentioned “Now I must confess it hasn’t kashrut. creating a bond with the one who let us begin by committing to one 125g Dark Chocolate enrobed Nougat; all always been easy. There were days I Rather, start with making gave us the command and as G-d, more good deed and be privileged other Sally Williams products are correctly could only put them on and say the your home kosher; if your home is our Creator, is Infinite every mo- to the year following, with bless- labelled. Shema. There were days I truly did already kosher, start with items of ment spent observing a mitzvah ings, success and peace. Moshal Scholarship Programme opens the door to a better life Photos supplied ALANA BARANOV This was the first of many planned op- achieve his own version of success by allow- portunities for students to engage and inter- ing Moshal to make a difference in people’s “Education is the most powerful weapon act with one another and forms part of the lives. which you can use to change the world,” for- Moshal Scholarship Programme’s commit- Moshal scholars then had the opportunity mer President Nelson Mandela, said. ment to build networks for multi-faceted and to address their peers and the invited guests, These wise words from a South African long-term support to its students. with many wishing to personally express icon, are the inspiration behind the extraor- The gathering was addressed by guest their thanks to Moshal and tell the audience Wilton Fredricks, Moshal scholar, at the dinary Moshal Scholarship Programme. speaker Dr Max Price, vice chancellor of UCT, what the scholarship meant to them. luncheon. Founded in 2009 by Durban-born internet who stressed that access to higher education “The Moshal Programme said to me: ‘If entrepreneur and venture capitalist Martin was the single most important intervention you believe in yourself, then I will believe in Moshal, the programme aims to provide fi- in moving people into a middle class environ- you’,” said one young student studying for a nancial support to promising young students ment. B Com degree with hopes of becoming a char- who would otherwise not have access to ter- He praised the efforts of the Moshal tered accountant. tiary education. Scholarship Programme, highlighting that it Another student quoted that “gratitude is Believing that higher education builds not only provided many young people with when memory is stored in the heart and not bridges from impoverishment to economic the prospect of further study, but also al- in the mind”, to describe his appreciation to freedom, the Programme provides students lowed universities to raise the quality of edu- the Programme. “Young people today are crit- with access to university and thereby endeav- cation they provided, to that of “world class”, icised for taking things for granted… but this ours to break the cycle of poverty. by funding the fees. gift will keep on giving - for me, my own chil- By opening the doors to a better life, the Programme founder, Martin Moshal, told dren and my patients,” said the young man lives of the students, their families and com- the story of his rise to success from his days who is currently studying to be a paramedic. Martin Moshal, founder of the Moshal munities are also uplifted. The Programme al- at the local Jewish school in Durban, to his The ethos of the Moshal Scholarship Pro- Scholarship Programme. ready supports more than 250 students with university years and business accomplish- gramme is to make a difference to as many full scholarships at top universities across ments. lives as possible. South Africa and Israel, with the first batch He stressed that education could not be “There are no strings attached to the of students graduating at the end of this year. taken away from a person and urged his stu- scholarships. Pay it forward,” Moshal told the The first South African “Moshal scholars” dents to use this time in their lives to, “soak crowd, “wherever and whenever you have the event took place on September 23 at Smuts up knowledge like a sponge”. opportunity to help others. It doesn’t have to Hall at the University of Cape Town, Moshal’s Although success was generally meas- be in money. It can be in time, advice or ef- alma mater. The luncheon brought together ured in financial terms, Moshal felt that, “all fort.” some of the best scholars from the country’s we can ever own are the good deeds we have Moshal also used the occasion to pay trib- most prestigious institutions, including the done… success should be measured by what ute to the efforts of the Moshal Scholarship University of Cape Town; Stellenbosch Uni- you do in the world”. Programme staff, namely President Kate Ku- versity; University of KwaZulu-Natal; Uni- He also spoke on the impact of the pro- per and South African Programme Director versity of Pretoria; and the University of the gramme on his own life, how the students Jodi Bailey, for making the programme one A group of Moshal scholars networking at Witwatersrand. had inspired him to do more and assisted him of the leading foundations of its kind. the event held at UCT.

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Staffwise_StripAd_JewishChronicle_fin.indd 1 2012/03/08 2:12 PM 12 – 19 October 2012 News SA JEWISH REPORT 3 SAMA issues strong pleas for Karabus release from UAE jail

The SA Medical Association (SAMA) has old man has repeatedly been denied bail” issued a plea to Minister of International - inconceivable, it adds, for someone who Relations and Co-operation Maite Nkoana cannot leave the country as his travel Mashabane, to urgently intervene in the documents have been confiscated. United Arab Emirates (UAE) case of re- Attention is also drawn to the fact that Where Perfection becomes reality tired Cape Town-based paediatric oncolo- Karabus’ lawyer is not able to access any gist, Prof Cyril Karabus (78) (pictured records to present as evidence in his retrial. with his wife Jenifer), who has been held “Minister,” SAMA wrote, “as the Hummingbirds Designs and Events t/a in custody in an Abu Dhabi jail since his representative organisation of doctors in Absolute Perfection arrest on August 18. South Africa, the SA Medical Association Event Styling and Floral Design In a formal statement SAMA notes respectfully implores your department to that it has also engaged the World Medi- intervene in any way or means possible to cal Association (WMA) and through this ensure that this elderly colleague of ours Barmitzvahs I Batmitzvahs I Birthdays body, Amnesty International, on this who has served the country with distinc- Romantic Anniversaries I Dinner Parties I High Teas matter. tion, is given a fair chance to defend Boutique Children’s Parties I Exquisite Weddings I The charges against Karabus relate to himself”. Engagement Parties I Destination Weddings I the death of a child with leukaemia who While pleading with all medical profes- he attended to while briefly working in sionals and associations to support the the UAE in 2002, following his retirement release of a colleague who finds himself in Absolute Perfection from a lifelong career in the South African such an unfortunate situation, SAMA has www.absoluteperfection.co.za public health sector. strongly advised South African doctors to Elise Suckerman: +27 (0) 79 858 0415 He was arrested at Dubai airport in be aware of the medical liability risks if Candace Allan: +27 (0) 72 314 9347 August this year while in transit while and when practising medicine in the UAE. returning to South Africa. In its letter to the international rela- • SAMA is a non-statutory, professional Email: [email protected] tions minister, SAMA has stressed that association for public and private sector despite several attempts, “this 78-year- medical practitioners. Like our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/AbsolutePerfectionWeddingSA World News in Brief We Service Nationally Paris district inks pact with PA to help eastern Jerusalem Arabs PARIS - The district of France that includes Paris signed an agreement with the Palestinian Authority Boutique to provide funding for programmes in eastern Jerusalem. The pact between Ile-de-France and the PA, which was approved on September 28 and will be signed this month, will send 300 000 euros (nearly $400 000) for educational and social welfare programmes to eastern Jerusalem, according to the Times of Israel. The agreement undercuts Israel’s claim to eastern Jerusalem, a largely Arab district that Israel considers part of its united capital. “There is very high sensitivity to the Palestinian cause in France,” Ile-de-France Councilman Detailed Jacques Picard told the Times of Israel. “This symbolic move is certainly intended to send a political Unique message.” Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman Paul Hirschon told the Times of Israel that the Ile-de-France council “seems intent on ignoring reality and living in a make-believe world”. (JTA) 4 SA JEWISH REPORT News 12 – 19 October 2012 ‘Fill the Void’: haredi filmmaker looks inward about the Orthodox world.” “We’re somehow portrayed as a bit crippled “Fill the Void” may be the first film about when it comes to feelings,” she said. But, “the haredi life directed by an insider for a secular feelings are the same. We just have a different audience. Aesthetically daring, intimate and set of rules. It’s about attraction, it’s about flecked with humour, the film recently earned sexiness - it’s about all those things that are seven Ophir Awards - known as the Israeli usually absent when you talk about religion.” Oscars - including best film and best director. What prompted Burshtein to write “Fill the After showings at the Venice Film Festival Void”, she says, was how, just as in the secular - where Hadas Yaron won a best actress award world, those rules could be complicated. At a for her portrayal of the lovelorn 18-year-old wedding several years ago, she encountered a protagonist, Shira - and in Toronto, “Fill the woman newly engaged to her late sister’s wid- Void” made its US debut at the New York Film ower. It seemed unlikely, but the story excited Festival on October 9. her immediately. Her research led to other Burshtein, a native New Yorker who grew women who married their sisters’ widowers. up in Tel Aviv, became religious at 25, after As common themes of sacrifice, responsibility, graduating from Jerusalem’s Sam Spiegel Film family, sense of duty and learned intimacy be- and Television School. gan to emerge, it seemed less implausible that The film probes the fraught relation- the couples actually could fall in love. ship between Shira and Yochai, the widowed “At the beginning, it sounded impossible Photo: Karin Bar husband of Shira’s older sister, who died while to understand how it works,” Burshtein said. Hadas Yaron as Shira in a scene from “Fill the Void”. Yaron won a best actress award at the 69th giving birth. After Yochai hints he will remarry “Then, at the end, it was like the natural Venice Film Festival in September. and move to Belgium, taking his newborn thing to do, to marry in the family.” son with him, Shira’s grieving and desperate With “Fill the Void” set to premiere in JOSH TAPPER tackles death, attraction, love and sex inside mother, Rivka, encourages her son-in-law to Israel in October, Burshtein anticipates some TORONTO a community not known for openly address- marry her second daughter. haredi backlash. But the trailblazing filmmak- ing emotion, Burshtein, who is haredi herself, The unlikely pair attempt to reconcile the er emphasises her open-ended, interpretative On a dark Tel Aviv terrace, a young haredi insists she’s not a rabble-rouser looking to inconceivability of a union with the unexpect- film was not made for haredi eyes. Orthodox man and a younger haredi woman ruffle feathers in the haredi world. ed reality that they’re falling in love. And yet, despite it all, she hopes that may- discuss love and heartbreak. There is ten- “Everyone else is trying to interpret what That conflict helped Burshtein steer the be her community will embrace the film. sion and animosity, hurt feelings and broken is going on” in the haredi world, the 45-year- film toward her central motive: quashing the “The minute the posters come out, we will promises. Then, in an emotional crescendo, old director told JTA in a recent interview, notion that the seemingly impersonal haredi see what will happen,” she said. “I didn’t try the man steps toward the woman, stopping after “Fill the Void” played to critical acclaim Orthodox practice of chaste courtship and to show something in an inelegant way. I love centimetres from her face. His breathing is at the Toronto International Film Festival. “I arranged marriages precludes love or affection. this world, I chose this world, I believe in this heavy, their noses nearly touching. felt it was time to tell a story from within, and Haredi couples, Burshtein says, simply have world and in its rules. I hope it’s a voice the This unusual and powerful scene is one say something that comes from really living their own playbook for expressing emotion. Orthodox would like to be heard.” (JTA) of the climaxes of “Fill the Void”, the award- the life,” Burshtein said. winning movie debut from Israel’s Rama “That’s what I felt was important: to just Burshtein. While the thefilm, Israel’s blue entry into tell a storygency that has no connection with the French Jew, US researcher the 2012 Oscars’ foreign language category, regular subjects you deal with when you talk share Nobel Prize in physics

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LOCATION - LOCATION - LOCATION PARIS - Serge Haroche, a French-Jewish grant from the Nobel Prize Committee with physicist (pictured), has won the Nobel Prize Wineland, a researcher at the Maryland-based in physics jointly with David Wineland from National Institute of Standards and Technol- With many years of experience in property management and the the United States. ogy and at the University of Colorado. Israeli real estate market, we will take the hassle out of managing The Nobel Prize in physics for this year, Le Figaro quotes Haroche as saying he was your Israeli property and save you time and money. went to the scientists “for ground-breaking walking with his wife down the street when he experimental methods that enable measur- received the call from Sweden. He said he had • Quarterly reporting ing and manipulation of individual quantum to sit down on a bench before passing on the • Private meetings in South Africa Invested in a systems”, the website of the Nobel Prize news to his family. project? Let said. Richard Prasquier, president of CRIF, the • Sourcing good quality tenants According to the BBC, the pair developed umbrella organisation of France’s Jewish com- • Secure rental collection us help you solutions to pick, manipulate and measure munities, told JTA: “The achievement belongs • Ensuring suitable securities coordinate the photons and ions individually, allowing an to the scientists, but a small part of me is also • Maximizing returns completion insight into a microscopic world that was once proud today.” • Professional maintenance contractors just the province of scientific theory. Mutual friends described Haroche to Haroche, who was born 68 years ago in Prasquier as “a truly brilliant thinker, known • Mortgage financing at best rates Casablanca, Morocco, told Le Figaro that he for his creativity”. “had a hard time understanding” the news Prasquier noted that Haroche had worked when a representative of the Nobel Prize com- closely with Claude Cohen-Tannoudji - also a For a confidential appointment call Barry Cohen mittee called him on his cell phone to say he French Jew of North African descent - who +972 52 8311174 / SA mobile: 076 5772000 or email: [email protected] had won what is considered the highest form won the Nobel Prize in physics in 1997. of recognition of scientific excellence. The Algeria-born Cohen-Tannoudji, 79, Haroche, of Collège de France and Ecole is still an active researcher at Ecole Normale Normale Supérieure, will share a $1,2 million Supérieure in Paris. (JTA) 12 – 19 October 2012 News SA JEWISH REPORT 5 Italian pianist revives music created in concentration camps Photo: Francesco Lotoro Ruth Ellen Gruber MACCABIMACCABI GAMESGAMES 20132013

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RUTH ELLEN GRUBER “They had nothing material to leave,” he said, “only TRANI, ITALY their heart, only their mind, only the music.” Jews who were killed in the Shoah wrote most of the world travel The Tr avel P rofessionals Francesco Lotoro resurrects the music of the dead. music that Lotoro has collected. But his collection also Since 1991 the Italian pianist has travelled the globe includes pieces by Quakers, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Roma to seek out and bring to light symphonies, songs, sonatas, (Gypsies), political prisoners, homosexuals and others operas, lullabies and even jazz riffs that were composed held in camps and prisons as far afield as Asia. and often performed in Nazi-era concentration camps. He also has music written by German officers and SA’S LEADING ISRAEL TRAVEL SPECIALIST “This music is part of the cultural heritage of troops in POW camps run by Allied powers and even humanity,” Lotoro, 48, told JTA after a concert in Trani, American GIs held captive by the Japanese. The Mall Offices, 11 Cradock Ave, cnr Baker St, Rosebank in southern Italy, that featured surprisingly lively cabaret “Everybody made music, wrote music,” Lotoro said. songs composed in the camps at Westerbork in the “Because, you know, music is a social phenomenon. You 011 788 2050 Netherlands and Terezin (Theresienstadt) near Prague. can be a musician as an amateur, because you have a good www.hwtexecutivetravel.co.za The concert formed part of Lech Lecha, a weeklong ear, you can improvise, you can play the harmonica.” Jewish festival in early September in Trani and nine other Lotoro, who lives in the town of Barletta, near towns in the Apulia region, the heel of Italy’s boot. Trani, and teaches at a music conservatory, believes “When I started seeking out this music, my interest he is descended from Jews who were forced to convert was based on curiosity, on passion,” said Lotoro, who was to Christianity centuries ago. He and his wife formally the festival’s artistic director. “I felt that someone had to converted in 2004. But he said this was not the reason do it. Today it has become a mission.” he began his search for the lost concentration camp Lotoro has collected original scores, copies and music. even recordings of some 4 000 pieces of what he calls His first foray to seek out music came long before his “concentrationary music” - written in concentration conversion – a 1991 trip to Terezin, where imprisoned camps, death camps, labour camps, POW camps and other composers such as Viktor Ullmann and Gideon Klein internment centres between 1933, when Dachau was - both killed at Auschwitz - had written works, such as established, and the end of the Second World War. Ullmann’s opera “The Emperor of Atlantis”, that had In the 1990s he formed an orchestra to perform the become part of the international musical repertoire. pieces, and in 2001 began recording the compositions. A “But from Terezin I went on to research other former selection was released earlier this year in a 24-CD boxed camps in the region, and at the end of three weeks I had set called “KZ Musik.” (KZ is the German abbreviation for to buy another suitcase to bring home all the material I concentration camp.) Some of the pieces have long been found.” known, including music by several prominent composers Along the way he has amassed a trove of 13 000 who were interned in Terezin. The Nazis used Terezin as a items: scores, notebooks, papers, diaries, microfilms, propaganda tool, allowing cultural life to develop. photocopies, photographs, recordings and other Other musical pieces, however, had been long lost material that he continues to sift through, catalogue and until Lotoro deciphered, transcribed and arranged them. sometimes reconstruct. He hopes to load all the pieces he Many compositions had been jotted down in has found onto a digital database for posterity. notebooks or scribbled in letters or on scraps of paper. In Much of Lotoro’s work also has been self-financed. the Pankrac prison in Prague, the Czech composer Rudolf Although he has received some grants over the years, he Karel scrawled music on sheets of toilet paper. told JTA that he had gone into debt and even taken out a “People continued to create despite being in those second mortgage on his home to cover costs. places,” Lotoro said. “These composers felt that the camp Still, Lotoro said, he must continue. “I cannot stop was probably the last place they would be alive, and so because if I stop, all the research stops automatically,” he they made a will, a testament. said. (JTA) 6 SA JEWISH REPORT Opinion and Analysis 12 – 19 October 2012 jewishsouth african report Strategic investment Violence: Govt in Israel’s new war must act now tion and $261 000 from NIF A frequent topic at dinner tables - including Jewish - have begun to have some ones - in recent months has been the growing violence success. in the country. And the fear that it will develop into an The Israeli company “uprising” against unemployment, poverty and cor- Ahava had to close a store in ruption, where the masses make the country ungov- London. Deutsche Bahn and ernable, as they did during apartheid. Industrial actions, service delivery protests, do- Pizzaroti have pulled out of mestic disputes and crime have all become more an ongoing Jerusalem-Tel brutal. The Marikana incident in August, in which 34 Aviv rail project. Veolia has miners were killed by police during a wildcat strike, organisations trying to alter withdrawn from the Jerusa- was a wake-up call for many South Africans. Even the fundamental nature of lem Light Rail project, and though we have a black government and a political Israel receive approximately the Norwegian national oil democracy, it looked like a return to the mayhem we $100 million a year from fund no longer invests in experienced during apartheid. sources outside Israel. These Elbit and Africa-Israel. Is South African society inherently violent? The organisations influence B’Tselem, an internation- plagues of robbery and rape, the murder rate, child public discourse in academia, ally known, often-quoted and woman abuse, violent strikes and service delivery culture, the legal system, the NGO that has received $156 protests would suggest it. Some 18 000 murders occur economy, and the media. 360 from the EU, $101 300 annually in South Africa (population 50m) compared with some 550 in the UK (population 62m). And there A New Profile, an Israeli from the Dutch Government, are often no consequences for perpetrators - at Mari- NGO that received $137 870 $71 725 from the Norwegian kana, 259 strikers were arrested for public disorder from Germany’s Bread for the Embassy, and $180 000 from and quickly released, probably due to political pres- World foundation in 2009 - the Ford Foundation, has sure. 2010, encourages draft-dodg- repeatedly misrepresented It’s not just personal safety at stake. There are neg- ing. Breaking the Silence, international law, skewed ative effects on our country’s image and economy, as which got $135 570 from the statistics, and perpetuated people overseas - including investors - come to regard British government in 2010, lies about the IDF. South Africa as an inherently violent, unstable place, sullies the image of the IDF The problem is that no where one wouldn’t want to invest one’s money. and its soldiers. opposing voice is heard, Dinner-table talk among Jews often veers into The Association for Civil and that there is no one to comparing South Africa with life in Israel. That coun- Rights in Israel - which has answer people like NIF’s try is surrounded by enemies intent on destroying it, yet it is ironically a very safe place to live. Indeed, the (File photo) received $71 200 from the associate executive director murder rate among its 7 million people, is low; there A Open Shuhada Street protester demonstrates against Ahava Belgian government, $69 300 in Israel, who sees an Arab are some 160 murders per year. Walking in the streets products in Cape Town in 2010, in solidarity with the BDS campaign. from the British government, majority in the country as a of Tel Aviv day or night, for example, your security is and $489 190 from NIF - good idea that would make vastly superior to what it would be in Johannesburg. RONEN SHOVAL critical. When UK Foreign argues that a Jewish nation- Israel more democratic. Most Has it ever been any other way in South Africa? A JERUSALEM Office Minister for the Middle state is, by definition, a racist Zionist organisations are not prominent Johannesburg community rabbi said often East Alistair Burt, was asked state. adequately equipped to face during apartheid that South African Jews could not Foreign governments, acting about the $800 000 he had In academia, Hebrew this strategic challenge, which forever live with their suitcases packed under their thoughtfully and strategically, given to anti-Zionist Is- University’s Gilo Centre for is one that directly threatens beds because of fear of the future - they must engage fund dozens of non-govern- raeli organisations, he noted: Citizenship, Democracy and the identity of the only Jew- with society to make it better. mental organisations that “Since we began supporting Civic Education, which in ish nation-state. At that time, reports of violence filled our lives, form a flourishing anti-Israel these programmes there have 2007 received $200 000 from Those who want to pre- but for whites it was generally out of sight in black ar- movement within Israel itself. been a number of changes to the Gilo Family Foundation serve the Jewish State must eas, where security forces kept the lid on crime and protests. As a response to today’s situation, some lo- This movement neither Israeli civil and military ju- and additional funding from change the way they use the cal communities have created private security compa- represents the will of the dicial practice and decisions, the EU and the Norway Fund financial assets at their dis- nies, with vehicles manned by trained guards driving Israeli people nor seeks to and increased public debate - along with similar organisa- posal. Zionist philanthropists around to keep streets safe, 24 hours a day. operate as a legitimate politi- on these issues.” tions, like the Minerva Cenre should not focus only on pro- The GAP and CAP patrols in Johannesburg’s cal opposition. Instead, it is Furthermore, he said for Human Rights, the Leon- jects that ameliorate societal northern suburbs have been highly successful. It is an orchestrated attempt from unapologetically: “We believe ard Davis Institute for Inter- conditions and do not play gratifying to see, in places like Glenhazel, Jews stroll- outside Israel to alter the that continuing British sup- national Relations, the Swiss any role in the current fight ing on Shabbos to shul and elsewhere, feeling safe. basic character of the Jewish port will assist in strengthen- Centre for Conflict Research, for Israel. And the CSO - the Jewish community’s own security State. The effort is a new ing democratic processes” in and the Truman Institute for They must start spending organisation - is present at Jewish functions, to pre- tactic in the old war against Israel. the Advancement of Peace - strategically to neutralise the vent anti-Jewish terrorism and other attacks. The un- the Jewish people’s right to Britain is not alone. host one-sided conferences, influence of anti-Zionists in derlying message, alas, is that the police are not able self-determination. Between 2006 and 2010, grant scholarships to like- the culture war. They should to keep us safe. So what should South Africans do? Should we ac- Non-Israelis often assume European governments trans- minded students, and seek use their money to fight cept that the status quo won’t change anytime soon that Israelis can and should ferred some $20 million to to guarantee that the next uncompromisingly against and that we will have to continue living behind electri- be responsible for dealing the 15 most radical anti-Zi- generation of scholars will the anti-Zionist organisations fied walls around our houses and in other highly de- with Zionism - and, there- onist organisations operating hold the desired views. It is that lead the campaign to fended ways and that the prospect of political chaos fore, with anti-Zionism as in Israel. no accident that eight out of delegitimise Israel at home will continue increasing? One occasionally hears the well. This assumption ignores In America, the New Israel nine political science profes- and abroad. phrase: “South Africa isn’t for sissies.” a fundamental shift in the Fund, with a 2010 budget sors at Ben-Gurion University A country’s strength is Indeed it isn’t, but it is a place with enormous po- balance of power among anti- of $34 million ($1 million is openly support anti-Zionist measured not by the number tential, a groundswell of generosity and goodwill be- Zionist forces. dedicated to lobbying), has positions. of its tanks and planes or the tween its peoples and an achievable ideal which calls From 1948 to 2001, the funded 92 per cent of the Elite lawyers who share money in its bank accounts, us all to devote our energies beyond our individual struggle was primarily physi- Israeli groups that accused an anti-Zionist ideology are but by the willingness of its lives, into building a better society. And it is an ideal cal; it could take place only in the Israel Defence Forces of groomed by NIF through its people to tie their fate to that which is fully as compelling as the fears. We have a good life here and this country is awash Israel among Israelis. From perpetrating the war crimes Israel-US Civil Liberties Law of the nation. The tragedy of with incredible opportunities for doing creative 1948 to 1973, the struggle alleged in the Goldstone Programme, described by pre-Zionist Jews, Herzl said, things, whether in business, professions, outreach was between nation-states at Report. Ha’aretz as a “crucial” initia- was that “we lack faith in and development programmes, the arts, and so on. war. From 1973 to 2001, the Other NIF-supported tive that has “changed the ourselves”. But beyond small-scale individual deeds, there is tactic became terrorism. Now, NGOs have joined the face of public law in Israel”. Theodor Herzl predicted: a desperate need for government to urgently address however, the main arena - the worldwide witch hunt that The programme places “The same day that we will the dangerous macro situation and act to re-establish “Durban strategy”, which condemns Israeli officials lawyers in dozens of anti- believe in ourselves, our dis- the sense that the country is under control. Politically, emerged at a 2001 UN confer- like Ehud Olmert and Tzipi Zionist NGOs - and the State tress will end.” The test of our with the ANC elective conference at Mangaung ap- ence in Durban - is a battle Livni as war criminals. NGOs Attorney’s office. generation will be whether we proaching in December, it is unlikely that President over the legitimacy of the supported by the European NGOs participating in can renew this belief in the Jacob Zuma, eyeing a second term as president, will very existence of Israel. Union participate in the anti- BDS actions - like the Wom- rightness of our path. (JTA) take on the unions and violent workers lest he damage Because the struggle is no Israel Boycott, Divestment, en’s Coalition for Peace, with his chances of re-election. But the country cannot wait. We need to see ac- longer physical, international Sanctions (BDS) campaigns. $150 560 from Germany’s • Ronen Shoval is founder and tion - now. financial support has become Overall, foundations and Rosa Luxemburg Founda- chairman of Im Tirtzu.

28 SA SA J JEWISHEWISH REPORT REPORT OpinionNews and Analysis 1201 – - 19 08 October June 2012 2012 Jewish philanthropy: Is it charity or merely reparations? DR IVOR BLUMENTHAL try to curry favour with political and many good things have also need in their own hearts” have over connections or people of influ- been done for the cause of libera- family and commu- the Jewish corpo- I recently commented that Jewish ence. tion, particularly by white Jewish nity, is a crime before rate sector in this organisations needed to start If anything, this behaviour heroes. G-d and will not go country. prioritising Jewish causes and makes us look weak, apologist and In many cases of philanthropy, unpunished. I certainly believe Jewish NGOs for donations and desperately vulnerable, especially the act of giving is either more We need to see that the opportuni- emoluments and to reduce the in the eyes of black youth. These about the level of guilt and the some Jewish phi- ty, the business case amount given to non-Jewish caus- young people do not understand need to assuage the guilt of the lanthropy (not all) for reparations, has es. I have since, been swamped by this philanthropy, do not appreci- giver, or alternatively about an for what it is in this expired. The luxury those I consider to be apologists, ate it and certainly do not revere opportunity for cheap marketing, country. Corporate of wiping the slate warning me against the direction our community for it. What they branding and ultimately increased strategy of this of guilt clean can no my writings may take. know is what is told to them by profit. kind is designed to longer be afforded, I am told that such a reduction their parents and that is not a Very few philanthropists give promote the use of the vehicle of lauded or tolerated. would cause respect, admiration pretty picture. for selfless, morally defensible reparations to reinvent a tainted, Our Jewish community, is an and reverence for the Jewish com- There is already jealousy, reasons. Most give for deducta- opportunistic, caustic corporate older, more frail, more vulnerable, munity among the non-Jewish deep-seated hatred, mockery and bles, sound bites and to ensure brand, thereby creating a new more battered one. It needs those community especially the black marginalisation of the Jewish that their names are generously business advantage and employ- who have the means to tackle community, to dwindle and be community from within the black displayed and lauded and never ing otherwise unemployable the problems within, with the replaced by hatred, mockery and community in this country and forgotten. children into “the Foundation”. same sense of urgency, passion marginalisation. no amount of charity is going to Corporate Social Responsibil- Reparations do not demand and seriousness with which they I have run a billion rand or- change that. ity (CSR) is today, in South Africa appreciation. Reparations smack have tackled the myriad problems ganisation designed to service the Some of these negative a legally enshrined commodity of victim vindication. “It is just. It within the black community. NGO sector, particularly in the sentiments towards Jews are which the givers use consciously is only right that those Jews give It is time now for those many previously disadvantaged black well deserved. Some of those in and strategically to gain direct back what they have stolen from enabled, wealthy black entrepre- arena in South Africa. If my expe- our community have not always financial benefit from, and which us, from our parents.” neurs, tenderpreneurs and billion- riences have taught me lessons, it as Jews acted properly towards recipient NGOs employ skilled However, surely there is a aires, to take care of their own, so is these: people of colour and we have in- tacticians to exploit the use of. window, a time period to this that our dwindling few can turn The Jewish community is not deed, as have other communities, People can, however give to type of philanthropy? Surely it is their time and attention to their respected, admired or revered by benefitted from the suppression any cause they want to. I have no not interminable? Surely at some own people. the non-Jewish and especially and oppression of people of colour right to tell them what is a just stage the level of guilt diminishes by black communities in South in this country. cause and what is not. It is their and is replaced by a sense of com- • Dr Blumenthal is a former Africa, irrespective of the size of The paradox, however, is that money even if it is blood money. placency and self-righteousness? member of the National Skills the donations or how many times the majority of white liberals in However, my personal belief is We cannot afford the level of Authority and previously CEO they are made, or how much we this country were and are Jewish that to give elsewhere despite the influence, which the “bleeding of the Services SETA. Denying the Jewish people their august history

By the last, there are only small pockets of the West Bank - is in fact in a state of legal Those who pointedly refer to the green in a sea of white. It is a clever sleight of limbo, belonging to neither people. It is only Palestinians as the “indigenous” people of hand, creating the impression that the entire along the pre-war 1967 borders that most the land, are in actuality baiting the Jew- territory was once Palestinian and was then Israeli resettlement activity has been allowed ish people by denying them their august BARBARIC YAWP gradually whittled away until the latter people to take place. history. Our response must be to speak of David Saks were left with a fraction of their birthright. Moreover, it is difficult to assert that Jewish Israel not as something that com- Naturally, there is no mention of how most of Judea and Samaria has been liber- menced near the dawn of recorded history, A national road show of anti-Israel propagan- a substantial part of the area was formally ated when such cities of such historical and not in 1948. da posters is currently underway. Starting in demarcated for a Jewish State by the UN. A and emotional resonance as Bethlehem, Pretoria, they have since arrived in Johannes- casual viewer without being familiar with the Hebron, Shechem (“Nablus”) and Jericho World News in Brief burg and will no doubt soon be appearing in background, would never know that there are de facto Arab towns with few or no all the other major urban centres. never was a sovereign state known as Pales- Jews living there. LIMMUD APPOINTS NEW EXECUTIVE Already, the images have sparked a furore tine, that the territory was simply part of a I recently set myself the goal of work- DIRECTOR AND CHAIRMAN in New York, where they were prominently succession of colonial empires and that most ing through one of the Tanach’s most LONDON - Limmud, the international network of displayed on subways and other very public of it was largely uninhabited at the time the difficult and least-known books, Divrei Jewish learning conferences, has appointed a new places. Jewish return got underway. Hayamim (Chronicles). While the compre- director and a new chairman. The campaign is being run by local Boy- At a stroke, the entire Land of Israel is hensive genealogical lists can be heavy go- Shelley Marsh, currently the director of cott, Divestment and Sanctions activists. The accorded a wholly imaginary history of inde- ing, what comes through more and more informal education for the United Kingdom’s United intention is to depict the entire process of pendent existence as Arab Palestine. Depicted is how long-established, deep-rooted and Jewish Israel Appeal, will become Limmud’s Israel’s establishment as being one of progres- in those terms, the entire Zionist enterprise well-documented the Jewish connection executive director after Succot, according to a sive colonisation and theft of Palestinian comes across as an extended act of robbery. to Israel is, and how fiercely self-aware the Limmud media release. Marsh succeeds Raymond land, and as such as a complete rejection not It is sometimes useful to simply turn the Jews of those time were of their origins, Simonson, who ran Limmud for six years and merely of Israel’s presence in the 1967 ter- other side’s propaganda on its head. If asked national and familial, and history. is the CEO-designate of the London Jewish ritories, but of its very legitimacy as a nation what I thought of the posters, I would re- These are not vague, ambiguous na- Community Centre. state. spond that I found them rather encouraging. tional legends located in some undefined, Limmud is an umbrella group for pluralist, It is important to understand that the “See how little of our ancestral homeland far-back epoch but a living reality. By multidisciplinary conferences around the world on BDS lobby is not campaigning merely against had been liberated by 1946, compared with contrast, the Palestinian Arab newcomers a range of Jewish topics. During Simonson’s term, the Israeli occupation, but against Israel’s how most of it was back in Jewish hands by have hardly any hard and fast tradition to Limmud has grown to include 60 conferences in very existence. Were Israel to withdraw in 1967 and nearly all of it by today,” I would draw on, which is why they can resort only 25 countries. toto from the entire West Bank tomorrow, it say. In one way, that would be entirely ac- to brazen denial and outright fabrications Kevin Sefton, a Limmud executive board would not change that long-term aim. curate. in order to trump the Jewish claim. trustee for four years, will become the Next would come a focus on the “re- Going back into history, the last people It may be laughable, indeed a bit pa- organisation’s chairman at the end of the year. turn” of Palestinian refugees, not just those to exercise a sovereign existence with the thetic, but it is dangerous as well. The way Sefton runs a management consultancy firm and diminishing and now very elderly inhabitants borders of the pre-partition Palestinian to defeat is for us to start being consid- has helped organise Limmud conferences in five of pre-independence Israel, but all of their Mandate, were the Jews. At no stage follow- erably more forthright in asserting the continents. descendants as well. At the same time, Israel ing their enforced dispersion, even for a short millennia-old Jewish roots in the Land Marsh in the media release called Limmud proper would be portrayed as a racist, apart- time, did another people establish their own of Israel, both in Israel proper and in the “a unique organisation” and said she strongly heid state even within the 1967 borders. state there. West Bank. identified with its vision and values. The poster shows three maps of “Pal- In another way, though, making such an Those roots predate the Arab-Islamic “I’m inspired by what they have achieved estine”, respectively dated 1946, 1967 and assertion would be quite inaccurate since in colonial conquest by more than 20 centu- in recent years,” she said, “and I look forward 2012. In the first, there are small pockets of reality a large part of what the BDS poster ries, far longer, indeed, than the Islamic to working closely with Kevin to support the territory marked as white in a sea of green. asserts has been stolen by Israel - ie most of religion has even existed. volunteers as they continue to build.” (JTA) 12 – 19 October 2012 SA JEWISH REPORT 9 Jerusalem Post, Jerusalem, Israel: www.jpost.com “Romney seeks to match Netanyahu’s ‘red lines’ on Iran” US Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney said he and Israeli PM Binyamin Netanyahu shared the same red lines for Iran’s nuclear programme. He added there should be “no daylight between US and The Jewish World Israel… We share values, and we’re both absolutely committed to preventing Iran from having a nuclear in seven seconds weapon.” The Australian Jewish News, Sydney, Australia: The Chronicle Herald, Nova Scotia, Canada: www.jewishnews.net.au http://thechronicleherald.ca “Students fight budget cuts” “Attack on synagogue, other anti-Semitic Students of New South Wales Emanuel School, joined incidents rattle France” some 800 youngsters in the fight against NSW Premier France is boosting security at Jewish and other reli- Barry O’Farrell’s education cuts. Said NSW Parliamen- gious sites after blanks were fired at a synagogue in tary Friends of Israel Deputy Chairman Walt Secord: the Paris suburb of Argenteuil last Saturday night and “Last week, the Australian Council of Jewish Schools police accused a suspected cell of radical Islamists of said the cuts would total up to $3 million across NSW ties to a grenade attack on a kosher grocery. Jewish day schools.” Jewish Journal, Los Angeles, USA: The Jewish Telegraph, Manchester, UK: www.jewishjournal.com www.jewishtelegraph.com “Slovenia, Estonia announce new shechitah restrictions” “Join Co-Op call to beat Israeli boycott” Slovenia’s National Assembly is set to vote on a pro- Co-Op party members passed a motion to continue posed ban on all ritual slaughter, which the European its boycott of four West Bank-based Israeli agricultural Union member country’s government recently submit- companies, Agrexco, Arava Export Growers, Adafresh ted for approval. Estonia, meanwhile, has reportedly and Mehadrin, at its annual conference. But the Zionist imposed new restrictions on its already stringent Central Council of Greater Manchester is urging people slaughter policy. to become Co-Op members - to help reverse the decision. Ynet news, international: www.ynetnews.com Haaretz, Israel: “Romney: Long way to go before Iran www.haaretz.com strike” “Prominent SA doctor denied bail in UAE” US Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney Prof Cyril Karabus (78), arrested in Dubai in August on said an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities was unlikely manslaughter charges stemming from a 10-year-old to happen in the near future, shortly after a former US case, was denied bail after the hearing was adjourned official said that the US and Israel were “zeroing in” earlier this week. At the time of going to press, he is set on the possibility of mounting a strike in Iran. to apply again later this week. 10 SA JEWISH REPORT Tapestry 12 – 19 October 2012 Sleepy village wakes up to the sound of classical music ROBYN SASSEN cians’ dining room - the remaining restaurants were jacked up for extra trade. “Three years ago, my husband and I came to Wak- “I had no money, no pianos, nothing. I managed kerstroom, a village on the border of KwaZulu-Natal to get together enough to mount the festival. My and Mpumalanga, to retire,” festival initiator Rona main selling point to the musicians was I wanted Arts in Brief Sonnenberg (pictured) says. people in this area to hear and see live music; I “The nearest town is Volksrust; Wakkerstroom’s wanted to expose classical music to all and introduce ALICE LOOKS AT ANIMAL-HUMAN RELATIONS in a valley famous for bird- it to people from disadvan- Johannesburg-born, London-based artist Bonita Alice, has focused in ing.” In this idyllic context, taged backgrounds. the past on geography, memory and transience. In “Beast In a Danger- Sonnenberg birthed a gem Nearly every musician I ous Landscape”, her third solo exhibition at Art on Paper gallery, Milpark unprecedented in South invited accepted to play for until October 27, she demonstrates a shift in her interests to include the Africa: a music festival no fee; I was lucky enough to study of animal-human relations. She comments: “In our relationship with that’s transitioned seam- have people like Tessa Ziegler, animals we’ve perfected their oppression. I suspect there’s a parallel on a lessly into festival circuits; Wessel van Wyk and Diane grand scale with peoples and nations. In Japanese beliefs there is a theme one focused on giving back Coutts accept. that destructive events in nature are linked to unresolved emotional human to its community. “The first Wakkerstroom dynamics.” Contact AOP at (011)726-2234 or visit www.galleryaop.com “After we got to know Festival was unbelievably suc- the village, I realised there cessful. The second, in March PENN’S ‘FIELD OF VIEW’ SHOWS IN DOWNTOWN JOHANNESBURG was no organised cultural this year, followed the same On October 14, Richard Penn opens “Field of View” an exhibition of new activity. Music is my pas- lines, but it became easier to work at Nirox Projects, Maboneng Precinct, downtown Johannesburg. “At sion, so I started a group get support and I altered its any given time there are numerous telescopes on earth and in orbit around called Treble Clef. We met slant. It became the tool to the earth, pointing up at the skies,” he says. “The mapping of our sky is one evening each month, to bring in revenue for a bursary. a mapping of infinite detail. This is an impossible map.” In this exhibition, watch a DVD of an opera, And I decided to make it a Penn shows a large body of monoprints and linocuts, started at a Nirox ballet or musical, preced- place with the public can come Foundation residency in The Cradle of Humankind in June. The exhibition is ing it with a talk about the and learn more the discipline - on until October 24. Contact Neil Nieuwoudt: 072-350-4326. show. This evolved into a a platform to take the ‘fear’ of matinee.” classical music away.” APTEKER’S ‘MATERIAL’ SCREENS AT LONDON FILM FESTIVAL In 18 months, Son- The inaugural Wakker- The movie Material, co-produced by Ronnie Apteker, released locally in nenberg’s audience was stroom Music Competition, in March, screens at the London Film Festival this week. Starring stand-up hooked. “But they needed a few weeks “is the culmina- comic Riaad Moosa and Vincent Ebrahim of the popular BBC show The Ku- to be exposed to live music. So the Wakkerstroom tion of the two festivals we’ve held so far.” It was adju- mars at No 42, it tells of a Fordsburg Muslim family and their son Cassim Music Festival was born. dicated in August by SA’s finest, including music critic who has dreams that super- “Early in 2010 I formed a board and registered Paul Boekkooi. “We believe the interest is not only sede the family’s expectations a Section 21 company. I started working on the focused on the prizes - the first prize is R100 000 and of him continuing the family festival in March 2010; it took a year to put it all there are three prizes in all, totalling R200 000, among business. It’s a tale of faribels together, including venues, musicians, sponsors, the richest prizes for classical music in this country.” and family expectations as accommodation and all that goes with setting up a She says the “countrysideness of it all”, explains its much as it is one about SA’s fairly large event for a small village. phenomenal success. inner soul, and is based on “The venues are the main NG Church, two • The Wakkerstroom Music Competition is on some of Moosa’s own experi- smaller churches, two restaurants, a garden, the October 20 - 21. Sonnenberg promises a third Music ences as well as on stories he town hall. I borrowed pianos from Wakkerstroom Festival in March 2013. She may be contacted on (017) and Apteker had heard. residents. I turned another restaurant into a musi- 730-0778 or [email protected] Singing is the midwife to this show about identity, home and homelessness ROBYN SASSEN ubiquitous in my work. I reckoned we could Technikon and recently met Spiegel-Wagner make a piece to speak to Market Theatre in a show they did for WIZO. “About two years ago,” says the Market audiences. “We knew there was no guarantee,” adds Theatre’s artistic director, Malcolm Purkey, “That, and the fact that Sivan sings Wits-trained Spiegel-Wagner. “I was approached by Sivan Raphaely. She like an angel. She brought along Sharon “Strand by strand, we drew this to- wanted to stop being ‘cattle fodder’ in this Spiegel-Wagner, another young woman gether,” says Gottlieb Lieberman, a Bar- industry. She wanted to do something that with an angel’s voice; the two introduced Ilan University musicology graduate, who mattered to her, artistically.” Naami Gottlieb Lieberman, who sings like a moved to South Africa five years ago. Photo: Ruphin Coudyzer “We wanted to be authentic to who goddess. “It’s not a cabaret. It’s not a play. It’s we are,” Raphaely interjects, pitch pipe in “The three experimented. They sang. unique. It’s a show about identity, home hand. They told stories. They argued about every- and homelessness. “I have always been interested in iden- thing from history to religion. They laughed “It’s about belonging. It’s about migra- tity,” Purkey, who collaborated in writing and cried. They sang some more. After a tion and wandering. And it is overwhelm- Malcolm Purkey, the show’s director. the classic SA play Sophiatown in 1986, very long process, something was born.” ingly Jewish, but we hope,” says Purkey, “we under the auspices of the Junction Avenue “We were not sure if it would be a caba- will get mixed audiences.” Indeed, this show you must witness to believe. The stories are collective, grins. “The lost Jewish girl is ret,” says Raphaely, who studied at Pretoria doesn’t speak to the parochial. about the fear of being in a foreign place “Everyone comes from somewhere,” with no language, they’re about the hilarity Naami Gottlieb Lieberman Sivan Raphaely Sharon Spiegel-Wagner Raphaely is wistful. “Some stories are true. of mispronounced words and faribels that Some aren’t. All are worth telling.” The last generations. piece features language from English and Hebrew to Russian and Yiddish. It’s not the • From the Mouths of Babes is at the Market conventional Fiddler on the Roof stuff, nor Theatre, Newtown, October 16 - December 2 is it about South African kugels whining. and the Baxter Theatre, Cape Town, Decem- These songs, uniquely arranged for three ber 5 - January 6. voice a cappella will make your heart soar. • Gottlieb Lieberman is shomeret Shabbat and The show’s edge is that none of the is replaced on Friday nights by Gina Cooper- stories are trodden: they’re the personal man Stoltz. accounts of the path the forebears of each • The production has a PG-14 age restric- of these women took to be in SA. “It’s so tion because of language; the team is happy personal,” says Raphaely. “It’s universal.” to host women’s only audiences and 11am Raphaely, Spiegel-Wagner and Lieber- shows, contingent on audience size: block man, who were initially bent on starting a bookings must be made with the theatre: Photo: Dan Rosenthal Photo: Ivan Giani Photo supplied band together, create magic together that (011) 832-1641. 11 SA JEWISH REPORT Letters 0112 –- 1908 October June 2012 2012

The Editor, PO Box 84650, Greenside, 2034 email: [email protected] Imagine Israelis perpetrating A MOVING TRIBUTE TO EAST LONDON’S THANK YOU TO ALL WHO MADE Some good reads al-Assad’s atrocities! RABBI ‘KUTTI’ SHALPID FUNDRAISER SUCH A SUCCESS Reviewed by Gwen Podbrey Imagine the following scenario: Armed “Although I was worn out and sick and unable As loving parents, relative, and friends of Israeli troops round up a number of Pal- to return for the closing services of Yom Kip- Selwyn Segal residents, we would like to ex- The War of the estinian children and use them for target pur this year, I must say what a privilege it was press our sincere gratitude to all those involved Wives by Tamar practice. Imagine the outcry that would to sing on the bimah last night and this morn- in making the recent Selwyn Segal fundraiser Cohen (Random follow! ing, together with our Rabbi “Kutti” Shalpid. such a success. House Struik, There would be protests from Tunis to Although this was his swansong, it was im- This thanks is also extended to all the help R215) Tehran, from Benghazi to Beirut. Embas- mensely moving to be up there with him, sens- and generosity given in the past, and, I hope Selina Busfield is sies would be stormed, foreign-owned ing his presence, feeling his once enormous the future. a happily married enterprises would be attacked. In South depth of voice, despite the effects of several The Selwyn Segal houses the most excep- Englishwoman Africa, the BDS group would strengthen strokes which have reduced him to a shell of tional people. It takes exceptional people to with three wonder- its call for a boycott of Israel. his former self. care for them, and we wish to take this oppor- ful children, a nice Muslim groups here would organise Standing next to him, (on his right side tunity of thanking everybody involved in car- home and her hus- a march to Parliament, and demand that because he couldn’t hear on his left,) the raw ing for the residents of this blessed institution. band Simon, who the South African Government break off emotion in his voice, as he prayed fervently May the Chevrah Kadisha, and all involved travels a lot, though diplomatic ties with Israel. The pressure on behalf of his congregation, could be both in maintaining this “heavenly” home, be for that has not impacted on their loving 28- against the “wicked Israelis” would be sensed and felt as it raised the feeling of awe everlasting blessing together with all its resi- year marriage. When he is killed - not in endless. and cried out to Hashem on our behalf, to dents. the MidEast, where he is supposed to be Now, let’s return to reality. Activists forgive, to grant teshuva, and to seal us all in on a business trip, but far closer to home, in Syria report that troops loyal to Bashar the Book of Life for the New Year. Choni and Baby Davidowitz, and Lana in Limehouse, the blow sends her reeling. al-Assad have indeed committed just such Being sight-impaired to a large extent as Axelrod An even greater shock awaits, when - at an atrocity - schoolchildren used as target well, his prodigious memory helped him recite Golden Acres Simon’s funeral - she meets his other wife, practice. the words of liturgy with conviction and little Johannesburg This report has credibility; Britain’s hesitation, as though he were reading them who tells her she has been married to LOOKING FOR him for 17 years and is the mother of his Prime Minister David Cameron, when he easily from the Machzor. The remnants and nuances of this powerful daughter. The two women, betrayed by the was at the United Nations, condemned the Syrian regime for this unspeakable and once moving voice, were discernible even Henry Parnes in search of half-sister same man, must now come to terms with act. this Yom Kippur, heightening the feeling of each other and their claims to his memory. Gail Yet there has been complete silence. spirituality among the congregants amid the A fascinating novel overthrowing many as- Henry Parnes was born in Cape Town No protests anywhere, neither in the Arab four walls of our shul. sumptions about “normal” families. 73 years ago to Sigfried and Jeannette world, nor here in South Africa. The BDS The memory of his wonderful voice, the Parness, Austrian refugees. His father group and other “human rights” groups, ability he had and still has to overcome physi- managed a hotel on the Sea Point beach- Philida by Andre have issued no statements. And Muslim cal adversity, the effort and enormous commit- front; his mother died when he was seven Brink (Random authorities here have not called for diplo- ment he always gave his congregation, despite House Struik, matic ties with Syria to be rescinded. his infirmity, is something which I shall always months old. R215) Indeed, throughout the Syrian crisis, treasure and remember for years to come. Henry’s father remarried Joy and had It is 1832 in SA, there have been no protests outside the It was a rare experience for me to appreci- a daughter, Gail in 1944/45. When Henry where Philida - a Syrian embassy in Pretoria, not for this ate and to participate in the harmonies which was seven, Joy left taking Gail with her Cape slave who has atrocity, not for any of the other human we sang together, and which Rabbi Shalpid and Henry was sent to his grandparents borne four children rights violations perpetrated by the Syr- still rendered with such passion, dignity and in Johannesburg. Both grandparents died by Francois Brink, ian regime. aplomb. before he was 10 and he was then sent to the son of her master What is the reason for this? The rea- In life, where men generally have short his father’s brother in England. After taking - discovers he has re- son is quite clear: In the Middle East only memories, this is one experience that will his GCEs at Oxford, he went on aliyah. neged on his promise Palestinian lives have any value. Syrian endure for many years to come.” Henry plans to visit South Africa in lives have no value whatsoever. to set her free. Hav- November and would like to be reconnected ing learnt that he is soon to be married and Norman Buchalter with his half-sister Gail. If anyone can help, that she will be sold on to harsh owners, Michael Renan East London Orthodox please contact [email protected] she embarks on a perilous journey across Cape Town Hebrew Congregation the wilderness to the banks of the Gariep River. Andre Brink’s somewhat laboured characterisation (particularly of women), his expansive, self-indulgent writing and his tendency to arrogate subject matter for his personal pulpit, pall in this novel. Yet it offers intriguing insights into one of the ugliest periods in South African history.

Will There be Donuts? by David Pearl (HarperCollins, R221) In an attempt to re-energise the workplace, Pearl - an international business consultant - explores the current concept of “meet- ings” (along with all the wasted time, boredom, poorly ventilated boardroom and bad coffee that word conjures up), and offers a dynamic new take on how employees and managers can turn encounters into exciting, produc- tive and stimulating experiences. Written lucidly and logically, the book is as relevant to entrepreneurs as to executives and introduces a refreshing touch of imagina- tion and sanity into a universally dreaded, formulaic ritual. 12 SA JEWISH REPORT Youth 12 – 19 October 2012 World News in Brief Flotilla sponsor tweets that Zionists helped perpetrate Holocaust JERUSALEM - The founder of the Free Gaza Movement, which uses flotillas in try- ing to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza, has tweeted that Zionists were responsible for the Holocaust, then apologised. Greta Berlin tweeted that she meant to post the tweet to her private Facebook account rather than the organisation’s Twitter account. The original tweet, sent on September 30 from @freegazaorg, read that “Zion- ists operated the concentration camps and helped murder millions of innocent Jews”. It linked to a video of Eustace Mullins, a conspiracy theorist, claiming that the word “Nazi” combines the words “National Socialist” and “Zionist”. Mullins died in 2010. “I posted it from Facebook, not realising that my private account was con- nected to the FG account. I apologise,” Berlin tweeted. Although the Free Gaza Movement deleted the tweet, Avi Mayer of the Jewish Agency for Israel posted a screenshot of it on Monday, according to the National Post. (JTA) IN PROTEST, HAARETZ DOES NOT PRINT EDITION TEL AVIV - Protesting 100 layoffs of its employees, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz last week Thursday suspended its daily edition for one day. Photo: Rory Rubin, Grade 9 Employees of the paper did not produce an edition that day, protesting the refusal of Candice Bonner and Megan Shankman selling slush. the paper’s management to meet with representatives of the employees, according to the Times of Israel. The paper was to resume publication last Friday, when Israeli papers print an KDL Market: more than economics expanded edition - akin to Sunday papers in the United States. SHAI DAYAN, GRADE 11 with a large crowd supporting it all. In an open letter in response to the printing freeze, Haaretz publisher Amos Schock- The Grade 8 Market Day is a project of the EMS en said the layoffs were a painful but necessary sacrifice to keep the paper running. The Grade 8 Market Day at King David Linksfield, department at King David Linksfield and has been an “In recent years I’ve made a huge effort to ensure Haaretz continues to exist this year again was one of much excitement and annual event for years. It’s a great opportunity for the and fulfil its unique role in Israeli society, in addition to being a reasonable place of anticipation. The grade 8 group along with the grade 8 group to learn all about economics, how to employment,” wrote Schocken, according to the Times of Israel. “Keeping Haaretz alive accounting learners of grade 11, teamed up and split handle money, how to run a business and work with requires harsh measures which made no one happy.” into groups. others in a work environment, as well as learning all The Israeli daily newspaper Maariv also is facing substantial layoffs due to declining These groups worked for months on end on their about the responsibilities of running a business along revenue. Maariv’s employees have protested the measures. (JTA) “businesses” and put a lot of effort and work into their with the rights you have as a business owner. day. After much planning and anticipation, the day The learning outcome of this project is always finally arrived; the KDLHS Grade 8 Market Day was outstanding and extremely beneficial to the grade 8 under way! group. A special thanks must also go to the group of Read the South African Each group was a different “business”, selling grade 10s who kept the whole market day refreshed different products and food items, as well as rendering and rehydrated! Jewish Report online a variety of services - from ice cream, dinky donuts, and This day was one of great success and will surely croissants, to paintball, tie die, and stress ball making, be one for the books. The grade 8s and 11s are to be www.sajewishreport.co.za the day was packed with many exciting food and commended on their hard work, effort, and the months gaming stalls, pumping music and a great atmosphere of planning that went into this exciting event.

Building identity at Soul Workout

Photo: Terri Fleishman

OWN CORRESPONDENT in a vote in the Kia/Nandos Journey through history voting box, to win prizes. Voting can The Soul Workout Jewish history workshop also be done at the Kosher Nandos in Savoy. was an absolute hit at KDVP primary last Rabbi Ilan Herrmann, director of Soul week. This workshop as an identity building Workout is seen here with Chad Rayd; Dylan project, gives the kids a focus on the power Dermiek; Benjamin Melandowitz; and Gabi of Jewish history and events that shaped his- Shapiro. tory. The workshop is a blend of narration, • Schools interested in hosting a Soul multimedia and group activity, culminating Workout workshop, can call (011) 440-5995. Incorrect photo for KDVP SRC We publish today the correct photograph for KDVP High School’s SRC for 2013. A wrong photograph appeared in the SAJR of Sept 28 – last year’s SRC. Back: Jayce Davin; Rebecca Eliason; Sebastian Cohen; Dean Salant; Justin Sher; Ryan Kramer; Kyle Kretzmer; Jacob Blou; and Jamie Brouze. Front: Jenna Hertz; Michael Levenstein; Helena Kahanovitz (head girl); Gabriel Zollmann (head boy); Julia Chaskalson; and Sasha Donenberg. 12 - 19 October 2012 Community Columns SA JEWISH REPORT 13

A column of the Chevrah Kadisha A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies Brixton’s lasting legacy West Bank re-labelling: putting Brixton Jewish Cemetery in the dignity of all the precious Johannesburg is 100 years old Jews buried at Brixton, the our case to Parliament and has a special place in the Chev has taken decisive steps Shortly before Yom Kippur, the and that we will do whatever is hearts of our community, many toward securing and main- Parliamentary Portfolio Com- required, including approaching of whom still visit. Although taining the cemetery. mittee on Trade and Industry the courts for relief, to ensure funerals no longer take place Encouragement from our heard oral submissions regard- fair play. at Brixton, those buried there exceptional community - ing the proposed re-labelling of As a result of the oral hear- Israeli West Bank products. The ings, it has been decided to call form a rich historic tapestry of and the great generosity of Board, as well as the SA Zionist for further submission from all Jewish South Africa and include one major benefactor - now Federation, were each allowed to stakeholders. pioneers, community leaders enables us to finally rid the make a presentation. Ours was These will outline what are and rabbinic luminaries. cemetery of vagrants and pro- delivered by National Director the minimal demands that each A special section is set tect the tombstones, fencing Wendy Kahn, and we commend feels would be satisfactory in aside for rabbonim and those and facilities from vandalism her for the accomplished man- resolving the matter. who served Jewish community and theft. ner in which she did so, as well We have been working organisations like the Beth Din, These are nationwide prob- as for its eloquent and succinct closely with our various part- Witwatersrand Benevolent As- lems, not confined to Jewish content. It can be viewed in full ners in the process in preparing sociation and Chevrah Kadisha. Partners in cemeteries and we attempted, on our website (www.jewishsa. such a document, which will be Among the many notable Chesed unsuccessfully, to resolve co.za). submitted shortly. As has been discussed in a names is that of Rabbi Moses Michael Sieff them through municipal chan- Above Board Group CEO number of previous columns, the A Succot lesson for SA Friedman, a distinguished, nels. Now, thankfully, we can Board has been much involved, Mary Kluk The joyous, harmonious week beloved scholar whose funeral proceed alone. in close collaboration with the National Chairman of Succot followed by Shemini in 1925 was attended by 10 000 people. Anti-theft fencing, lighting and 24- SAZF and other organisations, Atzeret/Simchat Torah, has just Brixton is the final resting place of Sir hour security, are all in progress and we in lobbying against this policy, certainly concluded, leaving us all inspired and up- Harry Graumann, first Jewish mayor expect to begin seeing results within six in the form in which it was originally lifted. In commemorating our ancestors’ of Johannesburg in 1909; Annie Slovo, weeks. presented. long sojourn in the desert, during which mother of Joe Slovo; Joseph Ratzker, Ongoing monthly security and Both in its content and the high-hand- time they lived in fragile, temporary President and honorary life president of maintenance costs will be R40 000. In a ed manner in which it was introduced, shelters, we should recall at the same time the Witwatersrand Hebrew Benevolent future phase we hope to repair all broken demonstrated beyond doubt that while how for so many South Africans, living in Association; Jacques Klisser, president tombstones and lay them flat. framed in terms of upholding simple such crude dwellings is a constant reality consumer protection principles, its real and reflective of the crushing poverty in of the Chevrah Kadisha in 1898, as well Anyone wishing to participate in this aim is to facilitate a boycott of certain which they are mired. as many other prominent people, too important project is welcome to contact Israeli goods and thereby set a dangerous In turn, this should motivate us, as a numerous to mention here. us on [email protected] international precedent. Jewish community, to extend a helping We know that every Jewish soul is May our partnership continue to We very much welcomed the fact that hand as much as we are able to, to those holy and for the sake of our heritage and thrive! we had finally been provided with an who need it. This column is paid for by the Chevrah Kadisha opportunity to present our concerns to Earlier this year, we launched our government, and it was further gratify- Jubuntu Project, which documents the Community Briefs ing that our presentations were allowed a various social upliftment projects be- respectful hearing. ing conducted by Jewish individuals and THE AFTERNOON DRIVE IS NOW ABLY STEERED BY Prior to this, our continued efforts to organisations. CRAIG BERMAN engage with Trade and Industry Minis- Once again, I urge anyone who can Craig Berman (pictured), a veteran DJ of 702, has joined ter Rob Davies on the issues, had been provide us with information on these the ranks of 101.9 Chai FM as the Afternoon Drive talk- disregarded, and when finally allowed an initiatives, which in due course are to be show host. He will bring his wealth of experience, intel- opportunity to meet with him, he was presented to Deputy President Kgalema lect and humour to the weekday slot from 15:00 - 18:00. wholly dismissive and uninterested in Motlanthe, to get in touch with us via our This martial arts instructor, guitarist, sales manager, lover what we had to say. website. of Israeli trance music, voice agency and media company If nothing else, our persistence in owner, aims to turn the Afternoon Drive into an engag- challenging this flawed and biased new • Listen to Steven Gruzd on Jewish Board ing, interesting and aggressive show, while skillfully measure has shown to government that Talk on 101.9 Chai FM every Friday 12:00 balancing a lighter side through music and entertainment. our views cannot be simply brushed aside - 13:00. Repeats Sundays, 11:00 - 12:00. Catch Craig Mondays to Thursdays on 101.9 Chai FM or audiostream at www.chaifm.com - RONEL ZEFF This column is paid for by the SA Jewish Board of Deputies KLERKSDORP JEWISH WOMEN’S ZIONIST LEAGUE UJW BRINGS COMFORT TO SHOWS HOW IT’S DONE HAMMANSKRAAL RAPE CRISIS CLINIC Over the High Holy Days, the women of the Klerks- Due to the initiative of clinical psychologist, dorp Women’s Zionist League, under the leadership of Lana Levin (pictured fourth from right, with Bev Marlene Waks, Ghita Subel and Shelle Hack, wowed Goldman, Lynne Raphaely, Levin’s daughter the community, serving four substantial, impeccably Alyssa (5) and Bev Cohen), the Union of Jewish kosher communal meals, enabling members of this Women was recently able to present much dwindling community to spend Yomtov together. At needed comfort packs to a rape crisis clinic in each meal the décor, serviettes, main courses, salads Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria. Aware that the and desserts were completely different. Even the veg- UJW makes up packs for the medico-legal clinics etarians were catered for. Pictured are (front) Shelle at Chris Hani-Baragwanath Hospital, the Hillbrow Hack; Joan de Jong; Jackey Shall; and Marlene Waks. Community Health Centre and the Jubilee Clinic Back: Ray Franks; Sylvia Subel; Varda Subel; Maureen in Hammanskraal, she handed over a huge Frame; Dorothy Marcus; and Ghita Subel. collection of toiletries and underwear.

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This created mond industry and their labs are the most backlogs of weeks and months, and a high cost respected in the world - they are like the Rolls associated with insurance premiums while the Royce of standards, mainly because they are a gems were in transit. non-profit organisation.” Having an American centre of excellence It is customary for any diamond weighing in Israel, will accelerate Israeli diamond turno- more than one-third of a carat to come with a ver, Sheintal says. certificate estimating the stone’s worth, along No less important for international trade with a gemological report looking at the “four with Israel, in the next phase in the coming Cs” - colour, clarity, cut and carat. year or two, the GIA will create an educational While the GIA certificates do not specify and learning centre for cutting and polishing whether or not the gem is a fair-trade, cruel- diamonds at the Israeli facility, only one of a ty-free diamond, Sheintal assures that every handful of such facilities outside the US. diamond trader in the Israeli industry is well “Once there is a school and training in aware of the problem of blood diamonds. place, it will give a boost to the industry,” In fact, he notes, Israel was one of the Sheintal believes. founders of the Kimberly Process to stop the Expected to enrol about 100 students trade of blood diamonds, he tells Israel21c. a year, this new centre could attract young “We were there when the process was started Europeans looking to be diamantaires - dia- 10 years ago, and the rules and regulations are mond manufacturers or producers. Normally adhered to by the Diamond Controller’s Office trainees go to the GIA’s centres in Carlsbad, in Israel’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and La- Sorting diamonds in Israel, the fourth-largest diamond market in the world. Photos: Supplied California, or New York City. For Europeans, bour,” he says. KARIN KLOOSTERMAN outside the United States. It is based in the Israel is a much shorter plane ride away, and With a history of the Holocaust behind RAMAT GAN Israel Diamond Centre in Ramat Gan and cur- with fewer time zones to cross. them, “none of our members had a problem rently employs 20 people. Sheintal doesn’t think the move will at- with those rules and regulations. I can say that White or yellow, round, brilliant, heart or rose The opening of the centre will cut the time tract more buyers and sellers to Israel, but the no one can identify more with [conflict and cut in one carat or two? Whatever the style, or to market, and reduce risks and insurance process will cut costs, which may be translated suffering] than the Israeli diamond commu- size, diamonds are still a girl’s best friend, and premiums of Israeli-traded diamonds in the to the seller and ultimately the end buyer. nity. It’s easy for them to identify with what’s the engagement ring stone of choice. industry, says Udi Sheintal, managing director “The easiest thing would be for the GIA to happening in other parts of the world and to As the leader in the industry, the Gemo- of the Israel Diamond Institute, the non-profit stay in the United States, but we convinced be part of the effort to stop the suffering.” logical Institute of America (GIA) sets the organisation that encouraged the GIA to come them that this is the place to be,” says Shein- Sheintal hopes that Arabs from the West standard for assessing diamond quality and to Israel. tal, who heads an umbrella organisation to Bank, Jordan and elsewhere will take advan- value. The Israeli diamond market was worth help Israeli diamond traders in the interna- tage of this new diamond centre in Israel as a This gold standard in the diamond indus- about $20 billion in 2011, he says. Until now, tional marketplace. learning hub. try has now set up shop in Israel, the fourth- Israeli diamond traders would buy their raw The centre came about after intense nego- “Israel has long been a centre for the largest diamond market in the world. The diamonds close to the source outside of Is- tiations with the Israel Diamond Institute and global diamond trade,” said Donna Baker, centre, one of 16 across the world, will include rael, or in a trade, and then ship the diamond the Israel Diamond Manufacturers Associa- GIA president and CEO, who came to Is- the eighth diamond lab in the world - the sixth to the United States in order to get a certifi- tion. rael in September to inaugurate the new “The GIA is the world-leading centre for centre. “We hope that having direct access gemological certifications, which is grading to GIA diamond grading services in Israel diamonds,” Sheintal tells Israel21c. “This is will support the success of Israeli compa- the most appreciated certificate in the dia- nies. (Israel21c)”

Maccabi South Africa in association with the Johannesburg Jewish Male Choir

Presents Products of the Israel Diamond Institute in Ramat Gan.

World News in Brief CONVICTED OF SOLICITING A MINOR, RABBI IS BANNED FROM DC-AREA SHUL Israel in Song WASHINGTON - Rabbi David Kaye, who was convicted in 2006 for trying to sexually solicit a minor, has been told he could no longer worship in a synagogue in suburban Washington. The board of Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation in Bethesda, Maryland, notified congregants of the decision just before the High Holidays, the Washington Jewish Week reported last week Wednesday. Linder Auditorium In a September 12 note to its membership, the board wrote in part that it spent a “backbreaking amount of time” researching and discussing the legal and ethical dilemmas presented, including the “safety of our Sunday 11 November 2012 at 7:45pm children, responsibility, teshuvah (repentance) and the compelling needs of the community at large”, according to the Washington Jewish Week. Kaye, a former vice president of programming at Panim: The Institute for Jewish Leaders and Values, based Guest Artist: Cantor Avron Alter in Rockville, Maryland, was caught in a sting on “To Catch a Predator”, a reality series featuring investigations by the televison newsmagazine “Dateline NBC”. Sandton Synagogue, Johannesburg Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb, the spiritual leader at Adat Shalom, spoke at length about the board’s deliberations and decision during a Rosh Hashanah sermon, according to the newspaper. He said it had not been unanimous, Musical Director: Evelyn Green “The process was painful, but it was something to be proud of. We were guided by balancing safety with Guest Conductor: George Mxadana the respect for individuals,” he told the Washington Jewish Week. Some congregants supporting the decision said that since Adat Shalom’s religious school meets on Shabbat, they were uncomfortable with Kaye’s presence during services, the newspaper reported. Ticket Prices R200 & R180 In 2006, Alexandria US District Court Judge James Cacheris convicted Kaye on one count of coercion and enticement, and one count of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Kaye eventually was sentenced to 78 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release. CONTACT Last January, he was released from a transitional house in Baltimore. Now 61, Kaye said he was divorced, Evelyn Green (011) 728-5570 / 082-704-2322 living in suburban Washington and still wanted to pray in a congregation. Russel Lurie 082-331-3019 / Anthony Jacobs 082-365-3765 “I’ve done teshuvah,” he told the newspaper. “And I feel that G-d has forgiven me.” Kaye had been attending Shabbat services at Adat Shalom since February. He believes that because & Computicket outlets “Dateline NBC” rebroadcasts “To Catch a Predator” periodically that someone in the congregation may have recognised him, which triggered the congregational debate over his presence. (JTA) 12 - 19 October 2012 Classifieds What’s On SA JEWISH REPORT 15

To book your classified notice or advert contact: Today, Friday (October movie “Funny Face” is in- a sumptuous tea. Cost parents.Information: Tel (011) 274-1400, Fax 086-634-7935, email: [email protected] 12) cluded in the line-up. In- R190 per person. Book- Caryn: (011) 532-9716. • Jewish Women’s Be- formation: Dave at (011) ings: Helen Maisels Trisk, HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED ADVERT: nevolent Society second- 885-3525 or Barney on 083-267-2607. Credit • UJW CT adult education 1. Only adverts sent via email to [email protected] will be accepted. hand shop, Benevolent (011) 440-1996. card bookings can be division hosts Esther 2. You will be advised on cost & payment details. 3. Payment is prior to the ad- Bargains, has relocated made through Sandy on Kluk (Russo) will talk on vert appearing. 4. Our banking details: SA Jewish Report, Nedbank Randburg, to Shop no. 4, 17 Anne • RCHCC hosts an exhibi- (011) 645-2515. “Collectors, Philistines, Account Number: 1984 514 865, Branch Code: 198405. Street, behind Sandring- tion of works by Miriam Lovers, Experiences From DEADLINE for BOOKING and PAYMENT is Tuesday 12 pm. (If deadline is missed ham Spar. All drop-offs Stern. Time: 17:00. Wednesday (October 17) My Art Gallery”. Venue: the advert will appear (when payment is received) in the next edition). and pick-ups welcome. Hours: Monday- Thurs- • RCHCC is showing the Stonehaven. Time: 10:00 IMPORTANT NOTICE - The Jewish Report runs adverts in the Classified Phone (011) 485-5232. day 09:00 – 16:00, Friday highly acclaimed film, for 10:30. Entrance: R20 section in good faith, however we cannot be responsible for the quality of 09:00 – 12:00. Sunday “Taking Sides”, by direc- (incl refreshments). En- services offered and claims made. • UZLC hosts Shirley Zar 18:30 - 21:30. Exhibition tor Istvan Szabo, starring quiries: (021) 434-9555 who will speak on “A Tour closes: Sunday November Harvey Keitel and Stellan (mornings only). Vehicles of Old Doornfontein”. 4. Contact: Hazel or René Skarsgard. Venue: Clive wanted Venue: Our Parents (011) 728-8088/8378, M Beck Auditorium. • Great Park Synagogue Home. Time: 14:00. Con- after hours (011) 728- Time: 19:30. Donation: invites you to “The IF YOU WANT TO tact: Gloria, (011) 485- 8378, e -mail: rchcc@ R60 (incl refreshments). Impact of Relationships BUY OR SELL 4851 or 072-127-9421. telkomsa.net or rene.s@ Booking: Hazel or René on Your Baby’s Brain De- A VEHICLE telkomsa.net (011) 728-8088/8378, velopment” - a parenting Sunday (October 14) after hours (011) 728- workshop with Dr Ronel Contact: • Chai FM together with • Second Innings hosts 8378, e-mail: rchcc@ Duchen, aimed at expect- the King David High Scully Levine, retired SA telkomsa.net or rene.s@ ing parents and parents Solly Kramer Schools, is hosting a Airways captain currently telkomsa.net, www.great- of young children. 082-922-3597 “Battle of the Bands and flying Mango, on “The park.co.za Starts 19:30. Cost: R30 DJs”, in aid of Generation Role of the Black Box in pp. Bookings essential. for sale Earth. Venue: King David Aircraft Accident Preven- • Chevrah Kadisha hosts Contact Goldie 072-832- miscellaneous High School Linksfield tion and as a Tool That a parenting group for 2001; goldiesimpson@ hall. Time: From 18:00. Enhances Safety”. Venue: parents of children gmail.com Cost: R40 pre-booked by The Gerald Horwitz between the ages of 2 - e-mailing Yakira Amoils Lounge, Golden Acres. 10 years, starting today. Thursday (October 18) at yakira.amoils@gmail. Time: 10:00 for 10:30. Gain practical parenting • JWBS is holding a “Bridge com or R60 at the door. Contact: Grecia Gabriel skills, understand your and Kaluki Morning”. (011) 532-9718. own parenting style, your Venue: The Links Bridge • Big Band Music Apprecia- child’s world, and learn Club, 147 10th Street, tion Society meets at St • WIZO Etgar invites how to equip your child Linksfield. Time: 08:30 HORWITZ Home services Johns College in the Jef- you to visit three of with the necessary skills for 09:00. Cost: R100 per General frey Auditorium St Johns Johannesburg’s pretti- they need to thrive in player. Tea and prizes. GERALD Appliance Repairs Road in Lower Houghton. est gardens. There will today’s world. The group Information: Isabel 083- JACK on-site Time: 14:15 sharp. The be a guest speaker and accommodates working 266-5837.” Stoves, washing-machines, passed away tumbledriers, dishwashers & Thursday 20th fridges. Free quotations! • Israeli folkdance - health (011) 728-8088/8378. project in Israel? You • Chabad House hosts September. Call Jason and fun, every Wednes- E-mail: hazelc@great- get a beautiful certifi- a series of events 082-401-8239 Home services Deeply mourned day at 20:00 at King park.co.za or renes@ cate to give to the bar-/ throughout the year. General and will be sadly services David Sandton. Begin- greatpark.co.za batmitzvah child here. Chai Seniors - Holistic missed by his Appliance Repairs MAINTENANCE on-site ners at 18:30. Contact Certificates are available & Kabbalistic Nour- sister Selma, Stoves, washing-machines, Anat 083-326-7095, • Beis Midrash Chofetz from WIZO tel (011) ishment”. Daily pro- brother-in-law HANDYMAN tumbledriers, dishwashers & Miri 082-773-8248 or Chaim is offering a 645-2548. grammes: Men’s Kolel Harry Jackson, SERVICES fridges. Free quotations! Ora 083-288-7202. second ma’ariv minyan Mon-Fri at Chabad nephews Michael Call Jason every weekday even- • Second Innings runs a House Library, 09:00 Michael, Daryl (011) 786-1163 082-401-8239 • Join WIZO every ing (Monday - Friday) series courses and ac- -11:00, followed by & Raymond, Lifts PLUMBERS Thursday for a “Lunch & at 21:00, cnr Elray and tivities including scrab- lunch. Ladies Kolel nieces Caren, BESt SERVICE Nicole & their Modern spacious Learn” shiur with Rabbi Michel Streets, Raedene. ble, bridge, discussion Tuesdays & Thursdays. children Gabi, vehicle, pax 7 + luggage Michael Katz, 13:00 Open to broader com- groups, play reading Special programmes: Natasha, Dean PIP FRIEDMAN - 14:00 at Beyachad. In- munity. Don’t fret if you groups, women’s and Mondays: Brain Worx & Adam, 083-267-3281 formation: Joyce, (011) need a later minyan. Se- men’s reading groups, with occupational thera- in Sydney, [email protected] 640-2416. cure parking provided. symphony concert re- pist, Cynthia Liptz for Australia. hearsals, bowls, pilates, brain exercises, 09:00 EX-ISRAELI SERVICEMAN • Stellenbosch Hebrew • Sunday Scrabble Club Yogic Pranayama, walk- – 13:00. All are wel- SERVICES offers lifts to airport and Congregation has a meets every Sunday at ing and aerobics, Golden come. Tuesdays: Guest appointments etc. LIFTS Friday evening service 10:00 at Zahava’s, Grant Oldies Cine Club, weekly lectures. Contact Rabbi Don’t drink & drive every week in shul, Avenue, Norwood, off workshops (by arrange- Ari Kievman (011) AIRPORT SERVICE ALL HOURS! JHB starting at 18:45. Con- 9th Street. Cost R5. ment) on “falls educa- 440-6600 or e-mail rak@ Neil 072-050-9927 tact (021) 886-5257. Players of all strengths tion for the elder adult”, chabad.org.za welcome. Larry 082- and organises regular services BRIAN K LIFT CAREGIVER SERVICE & COURIER • The Yiddish Academy 888-5355. activities. Contact • WIZO Elise Gift Shop Reliable, CAREGIVER “AIRPORT SPECIAL R140” offers weekly basic, Grecia Gabriel (011) in the Genesis Shop- Reasonable Rates! Will take care Secure, comfortable & safe. intermediate and ad- • Orchid Florist, a project 532-9718. ping Centre, Fairmount, Contact Arnold, of you/your Anywhere 24/7. (Jhb - Pta) vanced classes on Mon- of WIZO Johannesburg, entrance from Brad- 082-447-0185 loved ones, 011-454-1193 accompany them Call Brian on day evenings at 19:30, offers beautiful arrange- • Don’t miss the oppor- field Drive opposite on errands. 076-533-1440 Tuesday mornings at ments of flowers and tunity to do a mitzvah. Shula’s Bakery. Exciting IVAN WANTS TO Min 2,5 hours. 10:30 and Thursday fruit for every occasion. Visit the Selwyn Segal range of baby gifts and Reasonable LIFT YOU! Experienced, reliable driver rates. evenings at 19:30 at the No occasion too large or Shop. Gifts priced from gifts for all occasions Punctual, able to lift you anywhere/ Jacqui RCHCC, Glenhove Road, too small. Contact An- R45. Glassware, pewter, available at reasonable anytime 24 hours. reliable. 083-651-1110 Houghton. Conversa- nette (011) 728-4513. silver, white ceram- prices. Hours: Mon - Jhb/Sdtn/Tambo, Courier work undertaken. tional groups. E-mail ics and Selwyn Segal Thurs 09:00 - 17:00, Please call Paul Lnsria & Pretoria health & Beauty yiddishacademy@gmail. • JWBS Johannesburg, products. Phone: (011) Friday 09:00 - 13:30, 083-542-6480 Doctor’s app, com or call Hazel Cohen urgently requires 485-1344 or (011) 640- Sunday 10:00 - 13:00. etc. AUDIOLOGIST NOTICES on (011) 728-8088. secondhand clothing, 5171. (011) 640-2760. Reasonable KELLY NATHAN For your ONE-STOP kitchenware, household rates. • Supervised bridge with goods, books and bric-a- • Benarc Gift Shop - Gift • WIZO’s Wize Buys in Manor Medical Centre beauty treatments. 082-962-5007 Jeff Sapire Tuesday brac for its secondhand presentations for all oc- Raedene, requires near- 189 Kelvin Drive Call Ruth now. DRIVER Morningside Manor morning 10:00 - 12:00 shop. Contact (011) casions, made to order. ly-new clothes, shoes, Reliable gent 44 (011) 616-4305 Urgently seeks driv- Tel: 0861-266-563 (intermediary) and 485-5232. Call (011) 485-5232, kitchenware bric-a-brac, House calls done ing post (0861-Book Me) Wednesday morning JWBS. All kosher under etc. Phone Sandy (011) N/JHB Mon- Fri 10:00 - 12:00 (ad- • Celebrating a bar-/ the Beth Din. Proceeds 645-2515 for goods to Code 8. www.knaudiology.co.za Meranti Contactable refs. L-shaped bar vanced), at the Clive batmitzvah? Why not to support the less be collected, or deliver Currently INDIVIDUALISED M Beck Auditorium. give a donation to fortunate in our com- to WIZO office at Bey- Employed SERVICE FOR ALL YOUR R5 500 Wayne (011) 788-3686 Booking: Hazel or René‚ WIZO’s bar-/batmitzvah munity. achad, Raedene. 083-351-1225 HEARING NEEDS 16 SA JEWISH REPORT Sport 12 – 19 October 2012 Chess – a game Jews excel in Reykjavík, Iceland, attracted more world- wide interest than any chess match be- fore or since. In 1975, Fischer declined to defend his title when he could not reach agreement with FIDE over was not Hans-Gerhardt Fischer, but rather the conditions for the match. the Hungarian-Jewish engineer and fluid He became more reclusive and did not dynamicist Paul Nemenyi, making both of his play competitive chess again until 1992, parents Jewish. when he won an unofficial rematch against Paul Nemenyi was a research scientist Spassky. The competition was held in who worked on the development of the Yugoslavia, which was then under a United atomic bomb in the Manhattan Project at Nations embargo. This led to a conflict with the University of Chicago. He worked on the the US government, which was also seeking mechanism which triggered the bomb. income tax from Fischer on his match win- His work remains classified and little nings. Fischer never returned to his native is known about what he did or about the country. circumstances of his death in 1952. However, In his later years, Fischer lived in Hunga- all this has not answered the question as to ry, Germany, the Philippines, Japan, and Ice- why so many Jews have been brilliant chess An older Bobby Fischer. FBI files have revealed that American chess star had two Jewish parents. land. During this time he made increasingly players. anti-American and anti-Semitic statements. Here is an interesting answer, proposed JACK MILNER was succeeded shortly thereafter by Viswa- After his US passport was revoked over the by Alphonse Goetz in The Parallel Progress of nathan Anand, who won the title from him Yugoslavia sanctions issue, he was detained Chess and Civilisation in 1918. This time of the year is usually seen as a in 2007. Excluding the disputed period 1993 by Japanese authorities for nine months in “Since chess entered upon its third period period for reflection, where one looks back at - 2006, the chess players of Jewish descent 2004 and 2005 under threat of deportation. of splendour, the period in which we actu- the past year and reassesses one’s life. Well, listed below held the world chess champion- In February 2005, Iceland granted him ally are, the Israelitish element has exercised here is something to ponder over if you are at ship approximately 55 per cent of the time right of residence as a “stateless” alien and a predominance out of all proportion to the a loss. since its inception in 1886: issued him a passport. When Japan refused number and position of the Jews. How come about half of the world’s chess • Wilhelm Steinitz (1886 - 1894) to release him on that basis, Iceland’s parlia- “The branches of activity are well known champions have been Jewish? • Emanuel Lasker (1894 - 1921) ment voted in March 2005 to give him full in which the Israelites have excelled for so In his 1978 book, The Rating of Chess • Mikhail Botvinnik (1948 - 1957, 1958 - citizenship. The Japanese authorities then long, and, as it were, by the force of atavism - Players, Past and Present, Professor Arpad 1960, 1961 - 1963) released Fischer to Iceland, where he lived banking, business, industry. Elo, numerically rated some 476 major • Vasily Smyslov (1957 - 1958) until his death in 2008. In chess their supremacy began to mani- tournament players from the 19th century • Mikhail Tal (1960-1961) However, despite all his protestations Fis- fest itself scarcely two generations ago. It has onward. Of the 51 highest ranked players, • Robert (Bobby) Fischer (1972 - 1975) cher had a secret. In February 2003 unsealed not ceased to grow stronger and stronger approximately half were Jewish, or of Jewish • Garry Kasparov (1985 - 1993) FBI files and other independent archival since then.” descent. Of course, we have the usual debate as materials indicated that his biological father There it is - it’s just in the genes! The listing of world chess champions to who can be defined as Jewish. There is no of Jewish descent given below is based on debate about Steinitz, Lasker, Botvinnik and the list of so-called “undisputed world chess Tal. They were de facto Jews. We can also champions”, a category whose definition re- claim Smyslov. He had a Jewish mother but a flects the fact that the world chess champion- non-Jewish father and that would technically ship was in dispute in the years 1993 - 2006. make him Jewish. In 1993, the then world champion Garry Kasparov is in the so-called “grey area”. Kasparov and his challenger, Nigel Short, His father was Jewish but not his mother, so broke with the Fédération Internationale he is probably out. des Échecs (FIDE), which had sponsored the That brings us to the most enigmatic world chess championship matches since player of all time - American Bobby Fischer. 1948, and organised the Professional Chess Brilliant, introvert, and a man who lived by Association (PCA) to sponsor their 1993 his own rules, Fischer was said to have been championship match. born of a Jewish mother and that his father As a result, between 1993 and 2006 was the German physicist Hans-Gerhardt there were both FIDE and PCA champions. Fischer, who was not Jewish. He adopted the Kasparov was the PCA champion from 1993 surname and turned away from Judaism - if until 2000, when he lost the title to Vladimir there was ever anything there - and became a Kramnik. Former world champion Anatoly Seventh Day Adventist. Karpov was announced the FIDE champion He vehemently denied any Jewishness in 1993 and held that title until he lost it to and in fact, made strongly anti-Semitic Alexander Khalifman in 1999. statements. His series against Russia’s Boris In 2006, Kramnik became the first undis- Spassky in 1972 was widely publicised as a puted world chess champion since 1993 and Cold War confrontation. The match, held in Mandy Wiener is to address the Maccabi Stag JACK MILNER

In a complete break from tradition, Mac- cabi Stag will have a woman as its keynote speaker at its function on Tuesday October 23. Eyewitness News reporter and author of the book “Killing Kebble”, Mandy Wie- ner, will address the gathering. As a result, this event will be open to women as well. Maccabi Stag has taken a 180 degree turn here as previous speakers have all been sporting personalities. The function starts at 18:00, at which time a finger supper and drinks will be Journalist and writer Mandy Wiener will be the served. Wiener will talk at 19:00. guest speaker at this month’s Maccabi Stag. The cost is R100 per person and that your attendance with the Maccabi office includes the food. on 011 645 2557 or call Max Klass on Booking is essential so please confirm 011 485 1485.