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south african n Volume 22 – Number 41 n 23 November 2018 n 15 Kislev 5779

The source of quality content, news and insights t www.sajr.co.za Velaphi Khumalo makes public apology for hate speech NICOLA MILTZ that contravene Section 10 of the Explaining further, he said, “So I’m starting to be sceptical even of I did not intend to harm anyone. I Equality Act.” there is a higher threshold for those within our movement ANC. was hurt and angry.” elaphi Khumalo, the man He stressed that his comments what constitutes hate speech, and I will from today unfriend all white Khumalo said he accepted the who wrote on Facebook were fuelled by the events of the this makes it a pivotal judgement. people I have as friends from today u Equality Court’s decision that Vthat blacks should do to time, and that he “should have It gives much more clarity as to must be put under the same blanket it was not what he intended white people what “Hitler did to the known better”. what constitutes genuine hate as any other racist white because that mattered, but whether the Jews” has eventually apologised to Mark Oppenheimer, an advocate speech as opposed to speech that secretly u all are a bunch of racist remarks might reasonably have the nation. This follows a lengthy for the South African Human Rights is merely hurtful. The judgement is fuck heads, as we already seen.” been understood to be intended to court battle that has been described Commission (SAHRC), told the SA significant for freedom of speech In a subsequent posting, he wrote: damage the nation-building project as a pivotal case in defining the Jewish Report this week that the because it narrows the scope for “Noo seriously though u oppressed and other white people. limitations of hate speech. judgement was very important. declaring hate speech.” us when u were a minority and then Khumalo said as a sign of respect Khumalo, an ANC member He explained that it cleared up Oppenheimer said the case was manje (now) u call us monkeys and for the rule of law, he had instructed who is employed by the Gauteng ambiguities in the law as to the also a victory for the rule of law, we suppose to let it slide. White his lawyers not to appeal any aspect department of sports, arts, culture, Equality Court’s requirements for and the fundamental rights of people in south Africa deserve to of the Equality Court’s judgement. and recreation as a sports promoter, hate speech. individuals, whatever their race, to be hacked and killed like Jews. U “I would also like to urge my apologised unconditionally for the “For example, in the Penny be treated equally before the law. have the same venom moss. Look fellow activists who interact [with] comments he made on Facebook on Sparrow case, the court found that He explained that the court rejected at Palestine. Noo u must be bushed and or manage the Facebook pages 4 January 2016. you needed only one of the three the argument that you cannot have (burned) alive and skinned and your Political Debate SA and Independent “I admit that my comments were requirements for hate speech listed hate speech directed at whites, only off springs used as garden fertiliser.” Thinkers not to allow such platforms hurtful not only to white people, but in the Act. The court found she at blacks. In his apology, Khumalo said to deteriorate into a racists’ ranting also to black people. My comments committed the act of hate speech Back in 2016, Khumalo posted he wrote the posts after Sparrow page,” he added in his apology. were wrong, and I undertake not to because her words were hurtful.” on a Facebook group called Political used the social media platform to “I am sure that the purpose of utter them again in private or public The Khumalo judgement says that Debate SA amid a storm over estate compare black people at the beach the groups is to engage frankly. spaces,” Khumalo wrote in a public it is now required that words must agent Sparrow’s hateful comments. to monkeys. He said he was “deeply However, there is a difference statement. be hurtful, propagate hatred, and He wrote: [We should] “cleanse hurt” and in a “state of anger”. between frank talk and racism. “I accept the decision of the be incitement to harm or harmful South Africa of all whites. We must Referring to Sparrow’s remarks in I clearly crossed that line. I hope Equality Court that the comments directly. “All three must now be act as Hitler did to the Jews. I don’t his apology, he said, “Those remarks others in future will take my constituted hate speech. I will not present to constitute hate speech,” believe any more than is a large made me angry. I responded in kind. case as an example, and refrain repeat them, or any other remarks said Oppenheimer. number of not so racist whit people. I accept that I was wrong to do so. Continued on page 4>>

Our community saying no to child abuse See story on page 5 Photo: Ilan Ossendryver Photo: 2 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 Siblings share devastation of California fires JNF offers to help to

TALI FEINBERG Flames from the Woolsey fire surround a house in Malibu, California California fire recovery

“We were evacuated from multiple homes, Israeli environmental organisation Keren Kayemet lost one home completely, and narrowly L’Israel-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has escaped losing our primary residence. It offered its assistance in helping California was quite a harrowing experience,” says ex- recover from its recent devastating forest fires. Capetonian Julian Maimin, who has been “We have been following the situation with living in the United States since 1988. the horrific wildfires in California, including the Maimin was speaking about his unprecedented destruction of communities and experience over the past week of being the devastation to surrounding forests,” Daniel caught up in the California wildfires, Atar, World Chairperson of KKL-JNF, said in a described as the deadliest in the history of letter sent on Tuesday to Vicki Christiansen, the US state. the Chief of the United States Department of “We actually witnessed our home being Agriculture’s Forest Service. saved on CBS News, while it was being “Our thoughts and prayers are with the engulfed in flames. It was completely families and friends of those who have surreal to be watching our own home on the perished. We want to express our solidarity, news with a sense of futile resignation that encouragement, and support, and offer our all was lost.” assistance if there’s anything we can do to help.” His neigbour, who refused to evacuate, The two organisations have worked together also sent footage to him of his home being for about 30 years, including assisting and saved. The latest figures, released on sharing knowledge in the field of forestation whenever necessary, according to the JNF. Most Photo: David McNew/Getty Images Photo: recently, the US Forest Service aided KKL-JNF M&R Services Sunday by US officials, state that 150 000 men and women in our community, our in cases of forest fires in Northern Israel during acres of land have been scorched, almost bungalow was spared.” 2006 and 2010. Electrical • Gates/Doors a third of the size of Johannesburg, She says it’s been two weeks since the At least 79 people have been killed and nearly Fences Lighting • All Household according to TimesLive. fires, and the area still has no electricity. 1 000 remain missing in the wake of a fire in Firefighters have managed to contain “The only way in and out of the cove is by Northern California and two in Southern California Repairs & Installations only 65% of the fires. The death toll, which boat, so food, water, household supplies, near Los Angeles. Thousands of homes and has risen to 79, is expected to increase as and dog food is being brought in on jet skis, buildings also have been destroyed, including an Marc-Paul Fleischmann firefighters continue to battle the flames. paddle boards and small water craft which entire town, and the homes of several Hollywood 072 462 4067/065 975 7628 Rescue personnel are searching for nearly 1 can get close to shore. I’m so thankful to stars. The fires have also destroyed or damaged 000 people who have gone missing. our community for its commitment to do Jewish camps, a day school, and other Jewish Appliance Repairs on Site “Since we couldn’t go home to retrieve whatever it could to save the cove, and to institutions. , Heavy rain is expected this week in Northern shers any of our valuables, all we had were our brave fire fighters, who are our heroes. hwa the clothes on our backs,” says Maimin. “We are now using the bungalow in California, which will tamp down fears of more Dis oves s, es, St fires there, but could bring flash flooding and ge achin “We’re fortunate that our home lost at the cove to help others who have been id g M Malibu Lake wasn’t our primary residence. displaced – it’s the least we can do given the mudslides. (JTA) Fr hin as & more We’re back at home in Calabasas now, and devastation of Malibu. Thank G-d our place W Dryers ble despite the loss, feel very blessed.” was saved, others weren’t as lucky. We have Shabbat times this week Tum Call Jason His sister, Lauren Maimin Dromy, friends who’ve lost everything, and yet they 082 401 8239 / 076 210 6532 Starts Ends describes how her family’s holiday home still find a way to help others. FREE QUOTATIONS 18:15 19:15 Johannesburg in Malibu was saved. “The residents in our “We are a strong community here in Los 19:15 20:14 Cape Town little community of Paradise Cove spent Angeles and Malibu, and we will figure this 10 hours personally fighting the flames out and move forward, being just a little 18:15 19:12 Durban until the fire department was able to come more grateful for our health, our family, our 18:15 19:30 Bloemfontein with fire equipment. Because of the brave friends, and our community,” she says. 18:15 19:45 Port Elizabeth 18:15 19:33 East London Remote Control Transmitters for H Alarms H Gates H Torah Thought H Garage Doors H 81 Hathorn Avenue Cnr Durham St, Confront horror by asking ‘why?’ Raedene Estate (free parking) Tel: 082-881-3720 n Parashat Vayishlach, we find Jacob fearing for Esau? Is Jacob struggling with himself? debilitating anxiety, Jacob himself and his family as he prepares to confront One passage of Talmud (Chulin 91a) uses this must expose himself to fear, Ihis brother Esau for the first time since stealing his encounter, rather, to issue a warning: from here it is to encounter what he most Rabbi Emma DECEASED ESTATE birthright so many years before. derived that a Torah scholar should not go out alone dreads. He must confront the Gottlieb, Cape Town At the time, Esau was so angry, he threatened to at night. nameless horror of the man HOUSE CLEARANCES Progressive kill Jacob. Understandably, even though decades It is often easier when something unpleasant who grips him, of that which Jewish Entire households cleared have passed and they are both now married men happens to focus on the tachlis (nuts and bolts) binds him arm and leg, if he is Congregation professionally & confidentially. with children and grandchildren of their own, Jacob of how to prevent it from happening again, or to acquire the partial freedom is unsure how Esau will receive him. The news that happening to someone else, instead of focusing of a limping-hero who has learned his new name – We will take the burden off your Esau has come to greet Jacob with a large “retinue” on why it happened in the first place, facing the and, incidentally, the mirror identity of the face of his shoulders and pay you for it. does not help matters, and Jacob decides to send more wide-scale challenges that might need to be dread.” his family back across the river, at a safe distance, addressed in order to ensure a long-term solution. Jacob goes to sleep a fearful man and wakes up For a trusted service call until he is sure whether or not Esau’s retinue is a In the wake of the horrific shooting in Pittsburgh, renewed, with confidence. Though his new name Ladislav Miklas on 079 810 8837 welcoming party or a military force. we see both of these conversations happening indicates his struggles are far from over, he is now [email protected] Alone, Jacob then settles down for the night. throughout the Jewish world – some focusing on ready to face them head on. And, when he goes out This is when he has security measures in our Jewish synagogues and and faces Esau, he finds himself not threatened, but his famous encounter, institutions, and others focusing on the broader embraced. We, too, must find the confidence to go wrestling with “a man” concern of how to understand and combat forward unafraid. This is not the time to hide away (we know not who) anti-Semitism. Of course, both conversations are indoors. This is the time to walk boldly forward, to VEHICLES WANTED throughout the night. necessary. reach out, build bridges, and work to repair the ages- Much has been written At the same time, it is important to make sure that long damage between us and our long-lost brothers over the ages about the our answer isn’t just to batten down the hatches and sisters. nature of this “other” and stay indoors. Although Jacob’s struggle leaves Am Yisrael Chai. The People of Israel, the people whom Jacob wrestles. It him injured, it also leaves him blessed. Dr Avivah whose struggle is a part of their very name, will not is a divine messenger? Gottlieb-Zornberg writes that, “In order to overcome just survive – we will LIVE. Kein Yehi Ratzon!

Editor Peta Krost Maunder – [email protected] • Sub-editor Julie Leibowitz Senior writer Nicola Miltz • Journalist Tali Feinberg • Junior journalist Jordan Moshe The source of quality content, news and insights Editorial co-ordinator Martine Bass – [email protected] Any make, any model, any condition Proofreader Kim Hatchuel – [email protected] • CEO Dani Kedar – [email protected] • Advertising Britt Landsman: 082 292 9520 – [email protected] • Design and layout Bryan Maron/Design Bandits – [email protected] Accident damaged vehicles and non-runners also wanted Subscriptions Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd. Tel: 0860 525 200 • Board of Directors Howard Sackstein (Chairperson), Herby Rosenberg, Dina Diamond, Herschel Jawitz, Shaun Matisonn, Benjy Porter. Advertisements and editorial copy do not neccessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff and board of directors. Tel: 011 430 1980.

% Arnold Orkin 082 823 7826 The SA Jewish Report subscribes to the Code of Ethics and Conduct for South African Print and Online Media that prescribes news that is truthful, accurate, fair and balanced. If we don’t live up to the Code, within 20 days of the date of publication of the material, please contact the Public Advocate at 011 484 3612, AUTO AFRICA fax: 011 484 3619. You can also contact our Case Officer on [email protected] or lodge a complaint on their website: www.presscouncil.org.za 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 3 US president nominates Lana Marks as ambassador to SA NICOLA MILTZ celebrities like Benoni-born Charlize Theron, South Africa accused Trump of stoking racial She was warned to lock her doors at night; Jennifer Aniston, Angelina Jolie, and Helen divisions with the comments, which it called asked how long it took her to put her make up outh African-born couture handbag Mirren; and for her friendship with the late “misinformed”. on; and whether she intended opening a handbag designer Lana Marks has been officially Diana, Princess of Wales. She is the owner and There have been many strong reactions shop. Tweets about land invasions, poverty, Snominated by United States President chief executive of Lana Marks Collections. on social media platforms following Marks’ government corruption, and black economic Donald Trump as the new US ambassador to But according to newspaper reports, Marks nomination, some downright rude. Some warned empowerment gave Marks her first introduction South Africa. also allegedly has a trail of business and her that the position was not for the faint- to the online chatter that she can come to expect This is in spite of the Jewish, East London- personal lawsuits against her. She is currently hearted, others desperately tried to explain the if and when she hits our shores, with warnings born socialite not being an experienced embroiled in a bitter family feud involving sad state of corruption in the country. that “local Twitter can be ruthless”. diplomat. Her expertise lies in the high-end millions with her sister, Anne Pogroske, 62, in Some tweets asked her to look out for the President Cyril Ramaphosa is believed to be fashion industry, and she is a personal friend of Australia and her brother Malcolm Bank, 58, interests of farmers, and asked whether she was considering her nomination. Marks did not Trump. a dentist in Israel, over the family’s trusts and familiar with land reform. respond to requests for comment. The Deputy Spokesperson of the US Embassy assets. in Pretoria, Carrie Schneider, confirmed that on Marks, 65, is being sued by her estranged 14 November, Trump had nominated Marks to siblings who have accused her of “unlawfully” What to make of South Africa be the next US ambassador to South Africa. “If taking millions in property, jewellery, and confirmed by the Senate, Ms Marks will join a cash from a family trust, and from their ailing long list of distinguished Americans who have mother, Blanche, who has dementia. welcoming Israel-Hamas ceasefire served in this important position,” she said. It is a complicated affair which has been organisation by Israel and much of the West, is According to the statement from the White going on for several years. Marks’s sister, not even mentioned. No surprises from South House, “President Donald J Trump announced Pogroske, told the SA Jewish Report that her OPINION Africa here. his intent to nominate... Lana J Marks of relationship with her sister had soured to such Second, the statement hopes for “no Florida to be ambassador extraordinary and an extent, she no longer wanted anything to do renewed escalation in Gaza or in any of the plenipotentiary of the United States of America with her. Steven Gruzd occupied Palestinian territories”. Does it mean to South Africa.” Marks is good friends with Trump and first the West Bank? East Jerusalem? The Golan The US has not had an ambassador in South lady, Melania. On Thursday last week, the South African Heights? Some see all of Israel as illegitimately Africa since Patrick Gaspard vacated his post The presidential couple celebrated with them Department of International Relations occupying “Palestine”, the entire area from the in December 2016, with its mission being at Marks’ daughter’s wedding, held at Trump’s and Cooperation Dirco) issued a statement Mediterranean Sea to the Jordan River. This overseen by a chargé d’affaires. famous Mar-a-Lago Club, when Tiffany Marks welcoming the halt to two days of hostilities vagueness plays into that narrative. married Simon Isaacs on between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Third, the statement is consistent with Lana Marks Valentine’s Day in 2010. The Interpreting these terse statements is like South Africa’s long-held support for a two-state lavish wedding was the talk of reading tea leaves. What is not said can matter solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the town, and the bride wore the most. Dirco’s apparently measured tone that peace negotiations must resume. But it a ruffled organza gown by deserves closer scrutiny. never mentions that the state of Israel should be Oscar de la Renta. According The department’s full statement read: “The a Jewish state, rejecting all notions of an ethnic- to local news reports at the South African government welcomes the based political system. time, the wedding for 300 ceasefire brokered by Egypt between Palestine Fourth, it calls for “peace and harmony” guests included pyrotechnics, and Israel following two days of Israel’s aerial between Israel and “an independent, sovereign two cocktail receptions, a six- attacks on Gaza. This latest flare-up is the worst Palestinian state, based on the 4 June 1967 tiered wedding cake, and an since the 50-day conflict in 2014. borders with East Jerusalem as its capital”. ice sculpture. “We call for maximum restraint and express These “borders”, really the ceasefire lines on the According to the Palm the hope that there will be no renewed eve of the Six-Day War, would certainly need Beach Daily News, Marks escalation in Gaza or in any of the occupied to be negotiated in any bilateral settlement. is the fourth member of Palestinian territories. Decades of United States-led proposals have the exclusive, private Mar- “We reiterate our view that there can be no advocated “land swaps” to incorporate the major a-Lago Club – founded by military solution to the Palestine-Israel conflict. Jewish settlement blocs currently in the West Trump – that the president “The goodwill displayed by both parties to the Bank into any redrawn Israeli frontiers. The two- has nominated for an ceasefire is a positive and welcome development state solution is increasingly remote, though. ambassadorship. that should serve as a catalyst in resuming the Even US President Donald Trump has said that When Marks became aware long-stalled Middle East peace process, leading the parties themselves must choose two states Marks was quick to tweet her delight at being of her nomination on 21 October, she tweeted: to a two-state solution with the people of the or one state. nominated. On 16 November at 23:29, she “Lived in S Africa a third of my life; studied state of Israel living in peace and harmony Finally, Dirco roundly rejects the American tweeted, “Deeply honoured to be the nominee at Wits Univ; spoke fluent Xhosa; passed with the people of an independent, sovereign recognition of a united Jerusalem as Israel’s for ambassador of the United States of America the Hoërtaalbond Eksamen in Afrikaans; Palestinian state based on the 4 June 1967 capital. to South Africa! G-d bless America, Nkosi background in SA political, economic, social & borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.” The tone may be more tempered than the Sikelel’ iAfrica!” media landscape; businesswoman for 30 years; What can we divine from this brief vicious broadside delivered against Israel in May Marks, previously Lana Bank, was born and mom for 37 years; wife for 42 years; ninja, statement? over the Gaza-fence violence, but ultimately, raised in East London, but lives in Palm Beach, forever!!” First, there is no mention of the 460 rockets South Africa’s views on the conflict, who is to Florida. She left South Africa about 40 years Marks’ nomination comes at a time of tense fired by Hamas in Gaza into Israel. It talks blame, and the means of resolution have not ago, but claims that she is fluent in Xhosa and relations between the two countries after a only of “two days of Israel’s aerial attacks” changed in substance. Afrikaans. tweet in August in which Trump asked his and not what provoked them. Israel is once She is best known for her five and six-figure secretary of state to study South African “land again cast as the villain and “Palestine” as the • S teven Gruzd is an analyst at the South African exotic leather handbags, worn by red-carpet and farm seizures”. innocent victim. Hamas, considered a terrorist Institute of International Affairs. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis atINVEST vero eros IN et PROPERTY accumsan et IN iusto ISRAEL odio dignissimFROM R5 qui MILLION blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenitPROPERTIES augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, cons ectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummyContact nibh euismod Herschel tincidunt Jawitz in strictut laoreet confidence: dolore 082 magna 571 1829 aliquam | he [email protected] volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenit augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet,Lorem ipsum cons ectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, ON quis SHOW nostrud THIS SUNDAY exerci tation ullamcorper ON SHOWsuscipit THIS lobortis SUNDAY nisl ut aliquip ex ea ON commodo SHOW THIS SUNDAYconsequat. Duis autem vel ON eum SHOW iriure THIS SUNDAYdolor in hendreritOakland -in R4.1 vulputate Million velit esse molestie consequat,Linksfield Ridge vel- R5.8 illum Million dolore eu feugiat nullaSilvamonte facilisis - Inviting at buyers vero from eros R1.999 et Million accumsan etGlenhazel iusto - R4.699odio Million dignissim qui blanditW 46a Park Street. New Release. Touched by tradition & in need of a little Linksfield Drive. Love at First Sight when you see these breath-taking views. Cecilia Road. A warm, wonderful home, with separate self contained Ruby Mews. New Release. An exceptionally vivacious 4 Bedroomed praesentTLC, this is yourluptatum passport into sought zzril after delenitOaklands. Super augue renovated, eat-in duis Renovateddolore with teno expense feugait spared. nullaOpen plan facilisi. entrance hall, lounge and cottage. A delightful family home in Silvamonte, on the Glenhazel border. cluster in 24hr guarded complex. A gorgeous cluster oozing pazazz and class. kitchen, enormous lounge, dining room, 3/4 beds, 2 baths, study, guest cloak, dining room. Balcony with your own magic lookout point. Ultra-modern eat in Genuine seller, spacious reception rooms onto patio and pool. Big modern Double volume entrance, three tiled receptions leading out onto covered Loremloft room ipsum with bathroom, dolor staff, double sit garage,amet, workshop, cons covered ectetuer patio & kitchen. adipiscing 3 large bedrooms. elit, 2 modern sed bathrooms. diam Guest nonummy loo. Private suite nibheat-in-kitchen, euismod 2 modern tincidunt bathrooms (mes), ut separate laoreet cottage plus dolore staff patio, magna pool and walled aliquam garden. Stunning erat open volutpat. plan kitchen - excellent Ut wisistaff pool. Web Ref: RL7605 which can be used as a teenage pad, office or granny flat leads that onto an accommodation. Lots of off street parking. Asking more. Web Ref: RL1430 suite. Upstairs boasts four super bedrooms with 3 modern baths 2 en-suite enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercientertainment tation deck ullamcorper overlooking a sparking pool.suscipit Web Ref:RL6245 lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo conseat.plus pajama lounge. Double garages. Web Ref: RL1296 Directions: From Pretoria St, into Park. Directions:Follow pointer boards from Club St, into Bedford St into Linksfield Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuerDrive adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibhDirections: euismod Along George tincidunt Avenue. ut laoreet dolore Directions:magna From aliquam Long Avenue. erat volutpat. Ut wisi Chrissie Hammer 082 568 0440 | 011 880 3550 Laureen 083 789 0229 | 011 622 1820 Joel Harris 082 926 0287 | Marco 082 048 2644 Joel Harris 082 926 0287 | Marco 082 048 2644 enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in 4 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018

JEWISH FREE LOAN ASSOCIATION GEMILUS CHESED Muslim man extends a hand of (FORMERLY WITWATERSRAND HEBREW BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION)

NOTICE OF BIENNIAL GENERAL MEETING friendship to SA Jews Notice is hereby given of the 64th Biennial General Meeting of the above NICOLA MILTZ hatred on both sides. It’s all we read about on social media. It Association to be held on Monday 3 December 2018 at 16h00 in the is so disturbing and troubling for our youth. We need some Association’s offices at Beyachad, 2 Elray St, Raedene Johannesburg Muslim man extended a hand of sanity, some positive, good news. It’s refreshing. It’s time to Hon. Secretary friendship to the Jewish community and was start injecting positivity into our lives by sharing real, honest Mr. B. Sieff Aoverjoyed that instead of an ugly backlash, he was human stories with one another.” supported on all sides. Hattia was prompted to reach out because of the ever- Last week, Houghton resident Solly Hattia sent an email increasing amount of hate speech and disrespect relating to Show your love, gratitude & to the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) in the Middle East shown on social media, he said. appreciation with our beautiful the spirit of friendship and unity. Earlier this year, his nephew, a 19-year-old law student presentations, filled with In his very personal letter to the community, he told of at the University of the Witwatersrand, was involved in an his close and warm association with fruit, nuts and chocolates numerous Jewish people throughout his life. He said, “As fellow South Kingswood Centre, Africans… we need to find a forward 9 Northfield Ave, Glenhazel thinking approach, and show respect and dignity to each other, regardless ☎ (011) 440-4924 of our differences.” He said both communities would “naturally take sides” because it was

Scoop 5x3.indd 1 2018/03/19 12:01 PMin “our DNA to do so”. But he added, “how we relate to these issues is what is paramount for an all-inclusive understanding towards peace and Comprehensive Hearing Tests togetherness”. Latest Hearing Aids The email was shared on the board’s Facebook page, and received hundreds Speech Therapy for Children and Adults of responses from the community. www.speaktodayhearforever.com It took no time for the post to 4 Hill Rd, Morningside Medical Mews, Sandton reverberate in the Muslim community cell: 079 265 0487 email: [email protected] as well. anti-Semitic incident, which resulted in him and another Hattia, a father of five, waited in anticipation for a Muslim teenager apologising for their hate-filled posts on a backlash from his own community, expecting to be WhatsApp chat group. hauled over the coals. Instead, to his delight, he has been The two teenagers belonged to a WhatsApp group called supported in his bid to cultivate goodwill between the two Sneakerheads which sells takkies online. In June, a chat on communities. the group – made up of teenagers, many of whom are Jewish “I was surprised. I was expecting to be attacked. The news – turned ugly when the conversation touched on events travelled fast, and it was not long before I was inundated surrounding TV personality Shashi Naidoo. with calls. I’ve yet to hear anything negative. I was not The two showed genuine remorse during a meeting with shunned, quite the contrary,” he said. communal leaders on both sides, and their apology was Speaking to the SA Jewish Report this week, he cautioned, accepted. “Let’s not pretend things are hunky dory. There is an The incident shook the community and the Hattia elephant in the room which needs to be addressed, we can’t family to its core. It is one of the reasons why Hattia feels ignore it.” so strongly about the dangers of social media, and the Hattia said he would speak out against all forms of importance of moving forward in a spirit of peace and injustice perpetrated by all countries, and implored his conciliation. community to show balance in its criticism, not just of Israel, He said he wrote his email without telling anyone about it. 5 NOV - 3 FEB but all countries. “No one knew I was doing this. It came purely from the WEEKLY GAME SHOWS EVERY WED AND SAT “If Saudi Arabia steps out of line, we must be there to heart. I felt I needed to do it. I think I’ve done the right CAR DRAWS: 1 DEC | 6 JAN | 2 FEB criticise, the same with any country perpetrating injustice,” thing, and I’m chuffed with the response so far.” he said. SAJBD National Director Wendy Kahn said, “We have He reiterated what he said in his email. “Let’s debate, received the most glowing and heart-warming feedback to let’s argue, let’s agree to disagree, but let’s do so without the Solly Hattia letter. Our community has embraced the profanity, let’s do it with respect and dignity.” warmth that he displayed in his letter to us. It provided a Most importantly, he urged people on both sides to create glimpse of what is possible when our communities focus dialogue from a position of knowledge, and educate each on what unites us, and not on what divides us. There are so other about the harmfulness of hate speech. many moving stories between Muslim and Jewish South Asked why he had decided to put himself out there now, Africans – let’s celebrate these.” he said there was no such thing as a good time to show Hattia said he would be thrilled if something good came humanity and compassion. out of this, “something bigger”. “There is so much negative sentiment out there, so much Let’s wait and see. Velaphi Khumalo makes public apology for hate speech >>Continued from page 1 from making hateful comments. court costs, and told the National judgement of the Equality Court. We Unfortunately, remarks that are as Prosecuting Authority to investigate are encouraged that his apology has bad or worse than anything I said are whether he could be charged with been made to South Africans as the still made on that page on a regular a crime. Khumalo was ordered to consequences of hate have an impact basis. This must stop.” provide a written apology to all South on all of us in our society.” The lengthy and highly technical Africans acknowledging that his She said apologies in any situation judgement delivered last month by comments were hate speech, that he where there have been hurtful and Judge Roland Sutherland brought was wrong, and that he would never hate-filled remarks are appreciated. to an end the protracted legal make such remarks again. He was Over the years, the SAJBD had proceedings which dealt in depth with ordered to remove all references to been involved in many situations the definition of hate speech as set out the comments off social media. where anti-Semitic comments had 30 Nov - 2 Jan 2019 | Daily 19h00 - 22h00 in Section 10 of the Equality Act. The South African Jewish Board been made, and the perpetrators Tickets R25 | Proceeds to charity Sutherland ruled in favour of the of Deputies (SAJBD) this week had refused to take responsibility for SAHRC in its case against Khumalo, welcomed the unconditional apology their hate. In some cases, the SAJBD *TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY TO ALL OFFERS deeming his comments to be hate by Khumalo for his hate-filled had pursued these matters for years. AND PROMOTIONS speech. comments in 2016. “There have been several successful EMPERORSPALACE.COM Sutherland declared that National Director Wendy Kahn mediations that have led to FOLLOW US Khumalo’s comments were hurtful, told the SA Jewish Report, “It is understandings that have resulted in harmful, and promoted hatred, and important that Mr Khumalo has genuine apologies, positive outcomes

PEERMONT PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE NATIONAL RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING PROGRAMME. thus constituted hate speech. taken accountability for his offensive that have educated and changed PROBLEM GAMBLING COUNSELLING TOLL-FREE HELPLINE 0800 006 008. The court ordered Khumalo to pay words, and that he is adhering to the behaviours,” Kahn said. PLAYERS MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER. WINNERS KNOW WHEN TO STOP. 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 5 Jewish community in public protest against sexual abuse faith-based communities. We are the Protestors made sure that I will never have a JORDAN MOSHE pathfinders who are determined to brandishing family again?” tackle the silence, and make sure that placards in Jasriel explained that though nergetically brandishing these things do not happen.” Sandringham Hewitt has admitted his guilt in placards, demonstrators took Nicholas Ingel, a survivor of abuse, court, he remains unrepentant, Ea decisive stand against abuse said that it resulted in a loss of his and has yet to offer an apology. “He in our community on Wednesday sense of self-worth. doesn’t believe he belongs in prison afternoon. “I found myself sitting on the because his act was not committed Encouraged by the hooting of couch with a gun in my mouth on with violence,” she says. “If he is passing cars, taxis, buses, and many occasions,” he recalls. “I asked released, I am terrified he will find me trucks, members of the Jewish Hashem for strength to pull the and kill me.” community gathered at the roadside trigger, and at the same time, begged In spite of her fear, and her in Sandrigham to take a stand against him to help me prevent myself from belief that the justice system is sexual abuse in our community, taking my life. I strove to give my life failing children who fall victim and called for the perpetrators to be value, and find something to live for.” Ilan Ossendryver Photo: to abuse, Jasriel is determined to brought to justice. Aged three when his parents wanted me to go through what I did. of abuse does not allow anyone to make sure that her abuser remains The demonstration was organised divorced, Ingel moved to Cape Town “Those dealers raped me. A six- abuse someone else in turn, and is no behinds bars. “I will not let him go by Koleinu and Shalom Bayit, both with his mother, and fell prey to a year-old boy was penetrated by 10 excuse whatsoever.” home again,” she says. “I will keep local organisations committed to string of abusers while there. “When I individual men. I couldn’t understand Like Ingel, Olivia Jasriel took years saying he cannot and will not stop. fighting abuse. “Today, we take a was six, my mom took to sending me what I had done to have to endure it.” to break her silence and speak out People like him deserve to stay in stand for men, women, and children to spend nights and weekends with Ingel suffered abuse for four years, against her abuser. “It took me 34 prison.” who face abuse and tell them that gay friends she had at the time. They took to drinking at the age of nine, years to come out and speak,” she Other people who spoke at the they are not alone,” said Rozanne raped me. And, after going through and at 36, was on the brink of taking said. “Children feel that they will not protest were child development Sack, the Co-Director of Koleinu. that ordeal, I stood in the locked his life. It was at this point that he be believed. They keep their trauma and protection specialist Luke “We need to break the silence which room while they slept, looked out the chose to sober up, speak out, and to themselves for years and harm Lamprecht, psychologist Joanne surrounds cases of abuse even when window, and thought to myself, what make an effort to regain control of his themselves more.” Zagnoev, and Parktown Boys hostel it is not popular to do so.” have I done that is so terrible that has life. Still, the trauma he underwent Abused by her tennis coach, Bob matron Mariolette Bossert. The decision to gather in public caused my mother to put me through lingers today. Hewitt, when she was in high school, Hendler closed the protest on the side of George Avenue was of this experience?” “Until today, I cannot understand Jasriel saw him brought to justice and by stressing that as a Jewish particular significance. Said Wendy It was after suffering this trauma love,” he says. “I’ve been married and sentenced to prison for eight years community, we could not allow Hendler, the Co-Director of Koleinu: repeatedly that Ingel said he lost divorced, and I doubt I’ll marry again. a few years ago. Having served two misguided compassion for the “When people heard about what we all understanding of love, trust, I cannot comprehend what it means years in jail, however, Hewitt believes perpetrators to blind us to the were doing, many of them said we and respect. The cycle of abuse was to trust or to love as a consequence that he has served enough time, and severity of their actions. would regret drawing such attention perpetuated when Ingel’s mother of abuse.” is pushing for release. “Our drive to be compassionate to abuse in our community. People sent him to a group of drug dealers in He stressed that initiatives to “My trauma is ongoing,” says trips us up,” she said. “We believe said to me that I should expect a town. “My mom killed herself when break the silence early and support Jasriel. “I lost my family because of in kindness to the extent that we backlash for bringing our community I was sixteen,” he says, “so I’ve never victims are almost inexpressibly vital. that man. He convinced them that I allow ourselves to be put at risk in into disrepute. been able to ask her why she sent me “People need to know that abuse was lying and they testified against our attempts to show compassion “This makes me very angry, because to these places. Part of me wants to kills. Someone has to be the one to me in court. They still don’t believe to perpetrators and excuse their we need to be open about these believe that she used the drugs, and stand up and prevent the cycle of me today. Why should he be allowed behaviour. We need to equip things in order to be the light to other didn’t send me there because she abuse from turning. Being a victim to return to his family when he has ourselves to be sensible.” 6 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 south african Netanyahu fighting to maintain JTheewish source of quality content, news andR insightseport coalition government A small protest that brought or most of this year, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been DATELINE: out the worst in us Ftrying to get his coalition partners to MIDDLE EAST agree to early elections. These would have wo Herzlia Grade 9 boys went down on I feel helped him capitalise on his Likud party – and Paula Slier one knee in front of their parents and for the particularly his own – strong showing in the Ttheir school during the Israeli national leadership polls. eventually capitulated. anthem at their annual prize giving. They were of Herzlia. It Early elections would have pre-empted the Explaining his about-face, Bennett argued clearly protesting the government of the state of soon became corruption indictments against him that are that it was not a time for party politics, and Israel. Those are the facts. very obvious now expected in the first quarter of next year. in the interests of Israel’s security, he would What happened after this totally belies belief, that they If he is charged, there will inevitably be calls stay in the coalition. However, opposition and brought out the worst in our community, were damned for him to step down. Indeed, a new four-year- parliamentary members claim Bennett’s some of whom said horrendous things, including if they did, mandate instead of the slightly less than-one political aspirations were at play. Some even making ugly threats. and damned year he currently holds would have served him suggest a private deal was cut between the Some, determined to shame the boys on social if they didn’t. well. two leaders. It’s no secret Bennett has his media, even named them, while the school was That is quite This week, however, Netanyahu was the eye on the premiership (as do so many other trying to avoid this. People demanded that the simply because there are two sides within the one urging coalition partners not to jump politicians). school expel these boys, and teach them a “real community now, and they are both rabid. ship. So what changed? In one word – Gaza. Still, Bennett didn’t agree to stay in the lesson”. The boys were called traitors, BDS-poster We have all overreacted! We have taken this And, more specifically, Netanyahu’s insistence coalition without a price. He’s likely to push boys, even anti-Semites. too far! that Israel agree to a truce even after Hamas for more right-wing legislation and action Others called the school weak, an insult to However, this is a Jewish communal issue. It launched about 460 rockets and mortars at the in coming weeks, especially as he feels the education, and so the name-calling progressed. impacts on all of us. We really need to discuss at Jewish state in less than 48 hours. This was the government has lost its right-wing character. And that was just from our own community. exactly what point questioning Israel is taking heaviest barrage since the two sides fought a “The security situation today is not more As Jew was at Jew’s throat, the mainstream it too far? Is it acceptable to question Israel, or war in 2014. dangerous than what it was a few months ago,” media was having a field day, turning this into should we blindly support whatever Israel does? To his right-wing support base, the prime he said. However, he criticised the government something it certainly was not. It created a story We certainly didn’t blindly support the South minister’s behaviour was indecisive and weak; for waiting too long to take legal action about a school that was oppressing young boys African government. In fact, our chief rabbi led many wanted him to return fire with fire. because it was afraid to be caught in legal who dared to voice their disapproval of a “pariah us in protesting the rule of former President His tough-guy image took a hammering and entanglements. nation”. The whole thing is ridiculous, unfair, and Jacob Zuma. Israelis certainly don’t blindly follow as a result, Likud has dipped in the polls. The He cited the ongoing evacuation of the illegal untrue. the Israeli government. In fact, there are so many best thing now, Netanyahu knows, is for time Arab outpost of Khan al-Ahmar, legislation to These are boys – yes, boys – of no more than political opinions there, it is hard to find two to pass so that his supporters can forget their stop the generous salaries paid to terrorists by 15. They are impressionable, very bright, and people who agree. frustration and disappointment. the Palestinian Authority, and the demolition very eager to make a statement about their So, how much can we question what the Israeli Hence, ironically, it’s Netanyahu who now of terrorists’ homes. In all three cases, Bennett pro-Palestinian views at an unashamedly Zionist government does, and still remain within the needs an election to take place as late as is demanding action. school. confines of South African Zionism? Is it okay to possible. It’s not by chance that he’s given In a nutshell, Bennett feels the government This is not the first time they have aired their disagree with something the Israeli government himself the defence-minister portfolio, the is hesitant in its actions, and thus emboldens views at the school. They have been known to does, or does that make us anti-Zionist? first time ever in his long political career. Hamas and Hezbollah. “What Netanyahu challenge the school, even visiting speakers on These are questions we need to address as a He must re-convince the Israeli public of his describes as ‘responsibility’ is often perceived the Israeli-Palestinian situation. community. This incident has highlighted the security credentials in coming months as the by our enemies as hesitancy, and the line These are strong-willed and determined fact that we are extremely emotional about Israel, country heads towards elections. between the two is thin,” he said. youngsters, and as much as they wanted to cause and have very strong, but differing views. We Former Defence Minister Avigdor Certainly, now would not be the right a scene, I do not believe they had an inkling that need to thrash that out between us, and find a Lieberman played to public anger by last week time for the coalition to fall apart. Hamas it would cause what has become an international way of doing this in a discursive, not destructive announcing his resignation in protest against is watching Jerusalem’s every move, and furore. Even Jewish ANC veteran and anti-Israel and ugly manner. Israel’s acceptance of the informal truce with is celebrating Lieberman’s resignation as a activist, Ronnie Kasrils, put pen to paper in Is it a national story? I don’t believe so. These Hamas. It’s the second time in less than five success in potentially toppling Netanyahu’s support of the boys and against Herzlia, and children were not abused. They were not shut years that Lieberman has resigned over Israel’s fourth government. BDS-supporters did so too. As we put this down. They were not expelled, nor were they action – or as he argues, inaction – in Gaza. Observers are concerned that self-satisfied newspaper to bed on Wednesday night, Kasrils harassed at school. The last time was on the eve of the previous Palestinian leaders could embark on further was discussing this with an equally one-sided Herzlia was upset with their behaviour because Gaza war when, then as foreign minister, he military provocation against Israel. What will journalist on national television. it shone a potentially negative light on the complained that Israel’s reaction Did Herzlia actually do anything wrong, school. I don’t blame it for being upset, because it to rocket attacks from Gaza had or is it just trying to give its children a good didn’t do Herzlia any favours. Nobody wants the been weak and insufficient. education? Did it make mistakes? I believe it is school they love, and the reputation they work so But Lieberman was banking doing the best it can under fire. Is it an excellent hard at building, to be taken in a bad light. on other parties following suit. school? Absolutely! Is it a Zionist-based school? So, what do we do now? For a few days it looked like Absolutely! We back off Herzlia, and let it get on with they would, and Netanyahu’s Should its pupils be allowed to question? Yes! teaching children, something it does extremely coalition government hung in Benjamin Should they publically embarrass the school? No! well. We bring in experts to work with the the balance. Netanyahu However, is taking the knee at a prize giving in schools to give them the bigger picture of what Lieberman’s party, Yisrael the presence of parents embarrassing the school goes on in the Israeli-Palestinian situation. Beytenu, has been flailing publicly? It may not have been when it happened. Even after that, it is possible that not every for some time, and while However, this all happened after a week in scholar or his parent is going to agree with how its popularity spiked in the which Hamas fired 460 rockets at Israel and the Israeli government deals with the situation. immediate aftermath of his Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Do we then ostracise them because they have resignation, it’s likely to be agreed to a ceasefire, which caused a fair amount different views? Or do we agree to differ – as short-lived. happen in the future will in part be determined of consternation in the Jewish state. long as they respect our right to hold our views? I Holding new elections as soon as possible by Hamas’ behaviour. Will it abide with the The South African media virtually ignored would hope that we are big enough to follow the would have been best for him, but other ceasefire or continue with incendiary kites and the mini-war in the Middle East, which irked latter path. coalition partners are remaining on board. rockets, forcing Israel – read Netanyahu – to the community no end. Unsurprisingly! Then, We Jews have enough enemies. We don’t need Naftali Bennett who heads the third largest respond? the national media picked up the school story, to make enemies of our own people because they coalition party, the Jewish Home party, The prime minister is trying to avoid this, which in reality was an in-community issue, and disagree with our views. Look around you, we all initially issued Netanyahu with an ultimatum not least because of the lives that will be lost, certainly was not national news material. differ in some of our opinions. to make him defence minister or he’d follow in but also because, he argues, it’s unlikely that a But the two school boys taking the knee at Let’s rather live and let live, and work together Lieberman’s footsteps. long-term peace will follow. The Gaza front will their prize giving turned into a huge story, and against our real enemies, not our brothers and Bennett has long criticised Netanyahu’s haunt his political chances as the country gears as it grew in the media, so the community got sisters with different views. reluctance to respond more forcefully to Gaza up for another parliamentary election. angrier and angrier on social media. Before I sign off, I would like to take this rocket attacks, and supports ground incursions Elections are formally set for November Whether or not the boys did anything wrong, opportunity to thank the SA Jewish Board of into the strip. 2019. They could conceivably take place nothing they did deserves to cause this crisis. Deputies for inviting the SA Jewish Report to go But Netanyahu’s answer was that he any time between late February and early People are talking about taking their children with it to meet the minister of state security, who intended to keep the defence portfolio for November. That’s a span of just nine months, out of Herzlia if the school doesn’t expel these we wrote about last week. It is by virtue of the himself. That is in addition to the foreign and but in Israeli politics, nine months can be boys. Seriously! Is this not overreacting? board’s ongoing relationship with the minister health ministries he currently heads. “In the a lifetime. In the meantime, Netanyahu’s This is the same school that has given their that we had this access. light of the critical challenges currently facing government will continue to cling to a one-seat children an excellent education to date, and the State of Israel... We are in a particularly majority in the 120-seat Knesset (Parliament), hasn’t changed an iota. Where are you going Shabbat Shalom! complex security situation. At times like and the prime minister will continue to face to take them that they can still get the kind of Peta Krost Maunder these, you do not overthrow a government. coalition crises – the last of which is certainly Jewish education you want them to have? Editor It’s irresponsible,” said Netanyahu. Bennett far from over. 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 7 Israel’s ties blossom with Brics – bar one incorrectness, and nationalist views, however, exploration, and tourism. India, too, is market, and less overt ideological pressure is openly pro-Israel. He promised to downgrade simultaneously pro-Palestinian, and extremely around the Palestinian question. Israel seeks to Palestinian diplomatic representation and move close to Israel. balance its over-reliance on the US, which has OPINION Brazil’s embassy to Jerusalem (but fudged after Connections with China dwarf these, blocked some deals in weapons and technology Arab outrage). He plans to visit Israel, the United however. About 26 years after formal relations being sold to China. Steven Gruzd States, and Chile on his first presidential trip. commenced, China is now Israel’s second largest South Africa’s souring relations with Israel While Joseph Stalin’s Soviet Union initially trading partner. Israeli exports to China in are well documented: it includes a threatened supported Israeli statehood, anticipating a the first half of 2018 were $2.8 billion (R39.3 diplomatic downgrade, the recall of the The Brics bloc – Brazil, Russia, India, China, socialist ally, it became virulently anti-Zionist billion), up 80% year-on-year. Since 2016, Israel ambassador, and a constant, vicious, one-sided and South Africa – has three billion people, and during the Cold War. After the Union of Soviet and China have eased visa regulations, started invective against Israel. covers a quarter of the world’s land mass. These Socialist Republics collapsed in 1991, more than direct flights, and undertaken hundreds of joint South Africa pushed the Palestinian issue emerging powers are already challenging fading one million Russian Jews made aliyah. research projects and student exchanges. when it hosted the 10th Brics Summit in American and European dominance on the Russian is Israel’s third most spoken July. The Johannesburg global stage. Why have four of them deepened language, and Putin clearly considers declaration says, their economic, political and military links with Israel part of the Russophone world. “Ultimately, lasting peace Israel, with South Africa notably out of step? The countries have closely co-ordinated can only be established For one thing, they don’t let their sympathy interventions in Syria since September through broad-based, for the Palestinians scupper a good deal. For 2015, and will move beyond a recent inclusive national dialogue another, they recognise Israeli superiority incident in which Russia blamed Israel with due respect for the in fields like cyber security, technological for the deaths of 15 airmen. Russian independence, territorial innovation, and counter-terrorism. After the public support for the Palestinians integrity, and sovereignty of Cold War, they’ve let pragmatism prevail. (and Iran) has not stopped close each of the countries of the Tellingly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin collaboration with Israel on drone region… We reiterate the Netanyahu plans to attend the inauguration purchases, two-way tourism, oil, nuclear need for renewed diplomatic of Brazil’s President-elect, Jair Bolsonaro, next technology, and innovation. efforts to achieve a just, January. Netanyahu has visited China three India opened its Tel Aviv embassy lasting, and comprehensive times, India once, and Russia six times (and in 1992, but low-key relations settlement of the Israeli- met President Vladimir Putin nine times since predated that. It feared losing its Palestinian conflict… September 2015). leadership in the developing world by openly China has lapped up Israeli technology in through negotiations with a view to creating He’s never visited South Africa. embracing Israel during the Cold War. Today, solar energy, medical devices, cyber-security, an independent, viable, territorially contiguous Geographical and ideological distance made India is Israel’s biggest customer for military irrigation and desalination, robotics, weaponry, Palestinian state living side by side in peace and Israel’s ties with Brazil relatively weak. The equipment, and they share intelligence and and agriculture. China invests heavily in Israeli security with Israel.” left-leaning Brazilian government recognised conduct joint military training. Relations start-ups. More than 1 000 operate in China. Fairly mild and sensible stuff. Perhaps the Palestinian statehood in 2010 (balanced by flourished after President Narendra Modi’s And, China is doing big things in Israel. It is other Brics tempered the declaration’s tone? then-President Lula da Silva’s trip to Israel that election in 2014. He visited Israel in 2017, refurbishing Haifa port, and has plans to build a Now, if only they could convince South Africa year). Brazil condemned “disproportionate and Netanyahu went to India in 2018. There high-speed rail link between the Mediterranean what it really stands to lose by shunning the use of force” by Israel in Gaza in 2014, and is considerable co-operation in the fields of and Eilat, an alternative to the Suez Canal. Jewish state. temporarily recalled its ambassador. agriculture, biotechnology, information and China’s growing role as a rising world power The right-wing Bolsonaro, dubbed the communications technology, innovation has drawn Israel closer. Jerusalem sees Beijing • Steven Gruzd is an analyst at the South African “tropical Trump” for his crassness, political and science, oil and gas production, space as an alternative to Europe, with a massive Institute of International Affairs. 8 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 Kneeling down leaves uproar in its wake TALI FEINBERG integrity in accordance with the ethos of the According to South African Zionist and I hope for a different government. I wish school and its values, and we stand together Federation Chairman Rowan Polovin, “There for a society more liberal, more respectful of “Regardless of the pros and cons of the specific with you.” is absolutely nothing heroic, noble, or smart others, more pluralistic.” situation, Herzlia has to be commended for In a statement, United Herzlia Schools (UHS) about a Jew who kneels in protest whilst As a psychotherapist, she goes on to explain creating an environment where kids feel emphasised that it stood for free speech. “UHS Hatikvah is sung. It simply means that they are that the term “identified patient” used in empowered enough to voice their concerns in emphasises respect and dignity for all... UHS is Jews with trembling knees, afraid of standing family therapy refers to one family member public,” tweeted Piet Viljoen this week, one of an academic institution that strives to develop up for their own people,” he wrote in a blog unconsciously selected to represent a problem the lone voices that did not pick a side in the critical thinking as part of its educational post that has since gone viral. in the family system. In organisations, the term “taking the knee” incident at Herzlia Middle offering. We are fortunate to live in a country is used where an individual or group signifies School. with a progressive Constitution that allows for a problem or complex issue in the system. A His comment came after two Grade 9 pupils people to express their diverse opinions. This courageous family or organisation will conduct at Herzlia Middle School were disciplined for should always be conducted with respect for “The episode has exposed deep reflection, and raise questions about their kneeling down in protest during the singing the dignity of others, including those who wish own responsibility. of Hatikvah at their prize-giving, leading to an to participate in the school’s traditions and existing fault lines, confirming “Following this idea, the recent incident international media storm. heritage.” that this is a community that invites questions to be raised by the leadership In a voice note made public, one of the boys University of Cape Town’s Professor Deborah no longer has a consensus of the school. What does it mean to be a Jewish said they decided to protest because, “we don’t Posel echoed the need for raising children to be school in the diaspora? Who and what does support currently what Israel is doing... It’s like critical thinkers. Regarding the two boys, she view about Israel.” the school represent? What does it mean to in America, when you have NFL players who said, “They’re opening up important questions support Israel? How are all streams of Judaism take a knee during the anthem, they support about Jewish schools, and are doing so well- represented in curriculum and activities? How what the anthem stands for, but they don’t informed, from the inside. There are, no doubt, “If they have legitimate criticism of Israel, is the concept and complexity of a ‘Jewish believe the country is fulfilling those ideas, so other pupils who would disagree, but that in they ought to stand up and voice it in the democratic state’ addressed? In what way are they can’t stand for it.” itself is an opportunity to open things up. appropriate places. Do not falsely claim differences of opinions and dialogue practically He also said he hoped their actions would Let’s hear these articulate young people. They that there is no space to do so when there encouraged and celebrated in the school? bring people more towards the centre of have important things to say. We may agree or are multiple spaces created specifically for Where and how does social equality play a role politics, and create greater willingness to talk disagree, but they merit the respect given to discussion and debate. Treat those with whom in the organisational culture of the school? about Israel’s challenges instead of it being a thoughtful interlocutors in controversial and you disagree respectfully, and they will listen to What are teachers committed to? taboo topic. contentious discussions.” you respectfully,” he added. She concludes, “I sincerely hope the school But, in many ways, the incident has While the debate rages, school life is carrying Writing from Israel, Herzlia alumnus Mia as an organisation will grab this opportunity deepened the fissures in a Cape Town Jewish on as normal and it appears the actions that Levitt Frank, asked, “Does singing the anthem to conduct a deep and open inquiry around the community that is hurt, angry, and on the these two pupils took are actually insignificant mean one identifies with a government? I hope values, norms, and ideologies practiced on a defensive. in the bigger picture of school life. not. As an Israeli, I sing Hatikvah with pride, daily basis.” Said Professor Adam Mendelsohn, Director of the Kaplan Centre for Jewish Studies at the University of Cape Town: “The episode Veronica Phillips’ story of survival has exposed existing fault lines, confirming that this is a community that no longer has a TALI FEINBERG to move into a tiny flat Veronica Phillips consensus view about Israel. But in doing so, it with another family, part has furthered divisions. We are living in an age olocaust survivor Veronica Phillips, of the ghettoization of of polarisation, social media, and protest by aged 92, was very nearly rescued Jews, who were forced to gesture or spectacle. The first and last of these Hduring the Holocaust. As an 18-year- live in certain buildings. are not new, but all have combined in ways that old girl living with her family in Budapest, she However, they weren’t cut are distinct to the present moment.” was almost saved by the efforts of diplomats off from the rest of the This means that views are being expressed like Raoul Wallenberg and Carl Lutz, who city. She and her mother on social media instead of in safe spaces for issued passes to Jews living in that city. worked in a factory, but debate. “Social media is rarely a place for Though her family managed to get passes, were not paid. They also nuanced discussion, persuasion, and listening. they were destroyed by Arrow Cross thugs in couldn’t access their bank It is good at confirming views and cementing the street, sealing the family’s fate. Like many accounts. Survival was positions. Yes, some good may come of it all, Hungarian Jews, Phillips landed up being hand to mouth. but it will take lots of work from here on out to deported to Ravensbrück. Then, on 1 December produce those positives,” he said. Most Hungarian Jews were herded into 1944, during the dying Indeed, social media erupted in response to Auschwitz and decimated in record numbers. days of the war, Phillips the pupils’ gesture and the school’s actions. On In fact, one tenth of all the Jews murdered in and her father were the one extreme, community member David the Shoah were from Hungary. suddenly deported. She Hersch said on Facebook, “Expel them and let Phillips’ story is told in a new feature- describes the harrowing the shame follow them for the rest of their length film, The Secret Survivor, directed nine-day journey in the cattle cars in great imploding. lives. Their fellow pupils should be encouraged by Johnathan Andrews and made with detail, and it is difficult to watch a refined, We learn about the tragedy of Hungary’s to shun them and their parents as well.” the United Nations #GetPeaceProject, the elderly lady talking about such scenes. Then, Jews, as diplomats desperately tried to save On the other extreme, many expressed Embassy of Switzerland in South Africa, the in the coldest winter on record, she arrived at them in the face of relentless deportations to support. Former Herzlia Head Boy Daniel Embassy of Israel in South Africa, and the Ravensbrück, a concentration camp mainly Auschwitz, and how so many more could have Mackintosh tweeted that he “beamed with Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre. for women that had by then also become a survived had the war ended earlier. pride to read about the #HerzliaTwo, who Phillips, one of the Holocaust survivors death camp. In a moving comment from Martin Schäfer demonstrated a key Jewish value – having an to settle in South Africa, has rarely told her The chaos of these moments is reflected (South Africa’s German Ambassador), we ‘argument for the sake of heaven’ – for truth. story in full before. At the start of the film, in the way Phillips tells the story in the film. hear how his generation still feels guilt and Their bravery is an example to us all on our she says she does not want to take it with her In spite of the infamous organisation levels responsibility for the Holocaust, and that he collective obligation to oppose the #Occupation to her grave, and wants to leave it for future of the Nazis, by then, Ravensbrück was a “bows his head in shame” to all Holocaust – well done!” generations. disordered, hellish place that was left to its survivors. A hundred Herzlia alumni who opposed Slowly, she shares how she lived a own devices. Phillips was housed in a giant Phillips survived, but the Holocaust has the punishment of the pupils signed a letter, carefree and comfortable life as a teenager tent with thousands of other women. Most haunted her whole life. She suffered eight saying, “The school’s action betrays the best in Budapest, with her parents and younger did not understand the language. There was miscarriages, was never able to have children, values of the Jewish tradition, and is a flagrant brother. The family owned a sweet shop, and no food, no toilets, and no medicine. A gas and still holds feelings of vengeance in her violation of the students’ constitutional Phillips thrived at school. Yet, she describes chamber had been built, and Phillips recalls heart. She never reveals that she is Jewish rights to freedom of expression and opinion.” a dark undercurrent of anti-Semitism that how the smell of burning flesh will never if she can avoid it. She did not share some They asked, “Would the line be crossed if the was part of everyday life. For example, she leave her. aspects of her story for most of her life, even learners had knelt during Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrica was not allowed to be in the school yearbook She was then taken on a “death march” with her husband. to protest against state capture?” because she was Jewish. At other times, she – the Nazis last act to destroy the Jews of Yet, she managed to continue Herzlia alumnus Adrienne Jacobson wrote a heard classmates saying, “Jews are rats.” Europe. The way Phillips ultimately survived contributing to society, especially as a letter in response, saying, “As a proud Herzlia At the same time, because Hungary was is revealed in the documentary, and the brilliant microbiologist and geneticist at alumnus, I would like to put my name together allied to Germany for most of the war, its moment when she is reunited with her family Brunel University. She eventually moved with my fellow Herzlia alumni family to a Jews stayed safe while their counterparts in is truly heartbreaking, but hopeful. to South Africa, where she was a lecturer different letter. One that speaks of support, Poland and Lithuania were being massacred. Phillips story is boosted by fascinating in microbiology at the University of the unity, and love for our school which has faced It was only when Hungary was occupied by historical commentary from experts, Witwatersrand for 20 years. an unprecedented, gruelling challenge this Nazi Germany during the end of the war that including Tali Nates, the Director of the Her final message is that “she will forgive, past week. We salute you, Geoff Cohen, the Jews began to be deported. Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre. but she will not forget”, and she implores her trustees, and the board of governors for your Meanwhile, Phillips’ father was taken They give insight into how intense the audience to “be human”. fair leadership and consideration of all factors for slave labour for four years – the same Holocaust was in the final months of the during this tough time, and for your modelling fate as many other Jewish men – but he war, and how important the Final Solution • The Secret Survivor is showing at Ster-Kinekor of our Herzlia values. You have acted with survived. She and her family were made was to the Nazis, even as the Third Reich was cinemas in November. 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 9 Albie Sachs calls for more inclusivity on land

Albie Sachs Photo: Reuters/Amir Cohen Photo:

Israelis run for shelter as a siren sounds during a rocket attack at the southern city of Sderot In the wake of the recent rocket attacks in Israel, we extremely loud explosions and constant siren alerts. are appealing to South Africans to please donate to The Jewish National Fund of South Africa (JNF our current Bomb Shelter Project. Kim Scop, our SA) partners with The Keren Kayemet (KKL) of Israel new executive fundraiser, has set a goal during this whose staff are on the ground to directly support the miracle month of Chanukah to raise enough money to vulnerable and affected residents and interact with the put up at least 8 bomb shelters in Sderot, Ofaqim and children in a fun way to reduce their trauma and stress. Ashkelon – as close as 10km from Gaza City. It costs in the region of R126 000-00 for a small TALI FEINBERG pass on the skills, financial support, and These bomb shelters enable Jewish people to reach bomb shelter and R590 000-00 for a bigger bomb know-how to enhance the economy. In this safety within the critical 15 second period. shelter. Individuals who purchase a single bomb etired Justice Albie Sachs describes regard, agribusiness has a big role to play. Even with the intervention of the Iron Dome, adults, shelter are acknowledged with a plaque in their name land expropriation without Sachs says most of the physical farming children and seniors are affected with PTSD by the on their bomb shelter. Rcompensation as both a “hot potato,” in this country is done by black people, but Please help us to reach our goal at this crucial time. and a “nettle”. But he is glad that at last the now more knowledge should be added to Any contributions towards this project will go a long way in saving many lives. country is grasping it, he says. It had to be that skills set. “This is not to destroy that Banking details: Standard Bank • Branch Code: 007205 • Branch Name: Killarney confronted sooner or later. knowledge, but to share it – then everyone Account Number: 300465270 • Account Name: Jewish National Fund of South Africa Indeed it is being confronted head-on, benefits.” Ref: Your initials & surname/Bomb Shelter with Parliament’s joint constitutional In addition, he says many companies Kim Scop can be contacted on 011-6452541 or you can email [email protected] review committee formally resolving last are finding land that they are not using. Thursday to recommend the amendment “This could be utilised, because the biggest of section 25 of the constitution to pressure is for affordable housing in urban allow for expropriation of land without areas, so that people can be close to their compensation. places of work.” This means that the first “hurdle” to Sachs knows of farms where black expropriation without compensation has people have lived for generations, where officially been passed. “That decision their forebears are buried, and where they will provide the electioneering ticket for have a direct and strong connection to political parties ahead of the 2019 poll. But the soil. “I could see a solution where they an actual constitutional amendment will get a growing equity share in land they’ve emerge only well after the 2019 elections,” worked, while the existing farm owner 5th night Chanukah writes Marianne Merten in the Daily stays on in the farmhouse, imparting skills, Maverick. developing a shared ownership where both Although Sachs was one of the writers sides have an interest in the productivity of Candle-lighting with our residents of South Africa’s progressive Constitution, the farm. he has always been open to the fact that “The most important thing is that th “the Constitution should be a document everybody is involved in a solution, and it is Thursday, 6 December that in a principled and comprehensive way done according to the law in a transparent recognised the need to correct the systemic and public way. It could give a huge lift-off 6:45PM and continuing injustices of the past”. He to the country. It is very clear that those said this last year in a lecture presented on leading the process want to avoid land the centenary of Oliver Tambo’s birth. grabs like happened in Zimbabwe. That The Nosh Cafe Gardens “This meant that it should not entrench is not on the agenda at all, it is not what (Parking at Sandringham Gardens) any specific economic model nor be used as South Africans want. We have learnt what a mechanism for freezing the status quo. happens when something is not inclusive Rather, the Constitution should leave it to and benefits a few people with strong state Please bring along your family & friends! the democratically elected Parliament to connections,” he says. find the best way to achieve substantive Sachs recalls working with Cyril Live music & entertainment equality for the formerly oppressed people Ramaphosa as the country made the in their daily lives,” he continued. transition to democracy. “I found him to Speaking to the SA Jewish Report, Sachs be absolutely outstanding in his vision, Doughnuts Drinks Candyfloss confirmed he still stands by this statement. style, and thoughtfulness. He encourages Popcorn Chip ‘n Dip on sale For Sachs, “the process has been put on people to challenge him, and he is a strong the table in a manner that is inclusive and consensus seeker. He has a broad vision, thoughtful, where the objective is to deal including everyone in discussing and finally with a huge historical injustice that preparing for the future,” he says. has led to other historical injustices. He believes that that the future is bright, “Second, it’s being done in a manner in and that South Africa could well be on the which everybody participates, bringing verge of new breakthroughs, in spite of the the nation together to find a solution, and fear many are feeling: “How many people in third, in a manner that aims to ensure that the world felt that we could move from the in achieving that solution, food production racist oppression of apartheid to an open, is maintained, the economy isn’t hindered, democratic society based on equal rights and a new class of highly productive African for all? Yet, we South Africans did it. We family farmers and entrepreneurs emerges,” spoke to each other. People will find that he says. the open invitation now to participate and For more info contact Michelle: 011 532 9789 To his mind, the challenge will be to make a contribution is very rewarding.” 10 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018

(011) 885-1200/1 Jews make gigabyte mark on ‘techpreneurship’ savoymedicarehealth.co.a (011) 640-4321/31 MIRAH LANGER These include Larry Ellison people around the world,” offers Kuhn. perceliamedicarehealth.co.a of Oracle; Michael Dell of Dell Goldstuck says that as traditional Or team of eperts will provide that needed service in one day at ould the next Google come from Technologies; as well as Ehud Shabtai, careers like medicine, law, and SAVOY PHARMACY PERCELIA PHARMACY Glenhazel? A fresh Facebook Amir Shinar, and Uri Levine, the business are “disrupted by emerging

th nd be conceived in Camps Bay founders of Waze; and Dov Moran, technologies”, it makes sense that 25 November 8:00am – 1:00pm 2 December 8:00am – 2:00pm C or a super-smartphone devised in generally regarded as the inventor of information technology will become EARN POINTS AT OUR DISCOVERY VITALITY WELLNESS DAY Sandton? the USB memory stick. an increasingly popular professional NURSE: Blood pressure; BIOKENTICISTS: Measurements; With Jewish South Africans Goldstuck believes the potential path. Glucose; Cholesterol; Fitness Test (treadmill); increasingly turning to the technology exists for their South African “The future of business and society BMI (Height/Weight); Strength Tests; Flexibility Tests industry as a career choice, the digital counterparts to make digital waves. is not a fixed destination. Information HIV (optional) DIETICIAN: Body composition; dimension has become a hotspot of In particular, in South Africa, “we technology is a field that will define (This assessment will be Reports; Cholesterol; Guidelines nachas (pride and happiness). are seeing a large number of Jewish the future of business as well as the claimed directly by the nurse) (Payable on the day, thereafter claimable) TheSA Jewish Report spoke to a innovators in areas like blockchain future of work.” number of local Jewish “techpreneurs”, [digital currency] and fintech [financial The symbiosis between business EARN VITALITY POINTS as well as industry expert Arthur technology]”, he notes. needs and technology is encapsulated p to 25000 nrse | p to 500 biokineticist | p to 1000 points dietician Goldstuck, about some of the trends in Yet, Calabash co-founders, Leanne in Cohen’s work at BSC, in which this innovative space. Stillerman Zabow and Kyla Maimon immersive technologies such as Goldstuck, who runs World Wide Edinburg are proof of just how original virtual, augmented, and mixed Worx, a technology market research technpreneurial projects can be. The reality are being developed for use in company, says that while interest in two clinical psychologists noticed a business, particularly for training. technology-based careers is on the gap in the market for technology to be “Because virtual reality (VR) is fully increase in general, the demands of the used to assist professionals to rack up immersive, it offers a more holistic job resonates with values common in Continuing Professional Development human experience. It appeals to the many Jewish communities. (CPD) points. senses, the mind, and importantly, the “We started an online platform emotions.” where health professionals can earn “This technology moves people, CPD points by watching video lectures thereby enhancing key concept online.” retention and evoking behavioural While initially, they focused changes.” on producing video lectures for A primary focus area for the psychologists and other mental-health company has been in safety training experts, they are now expanding to a – such as for mine workers. However, website that shares content for other it has begun branching in other professionals as well. directions as well. “This work… allows for sharing For example, in partnership with Darren Cohen of knowledge in a manner which an American nongovernmental transcends the constraints of time and organisation, the company is creating “Jewish families tend to value both geographical location,” says Zabow. a virtual reality tool which teaches education and entrepreneurialism,” Ultimately, the two hope their work meditation and martial art skills, to he says. will contribute to the growth of an children suffering from cancer as well “The technology field lends itself international “learning community”, as recovering opioid drug users. powerfully to both, especially as she says. “This tool will form part of a clinical emerging technologies like artificial For Kuhn, a co-founder of Sortd, trial to assess the changes in neural intelligence, blockchain, and the an email-based business productivity pathways that immersion in VR and internet of things places higher suite, the ability to transition from meditation can create.” demands than ever before on a small-scale business to one with While these techpreneurs are information technology education.” a global reach is one of the greatest already blazing a trail into the future, For Darren Cohen, an associate perks of the job. Goldstuck offers advice to those partner at Business Science hoping to follow suit. Corporation (BSC), the popularity “Be fluid and flexible, and ready The South African Board of Jewish Education invites of techpreneurship is linked to how to change direction at any time,” he dynamic and motivated applicants for the position of “Jewish people have always been advises. creative problem solvers”. “It is up to individuals to combine “In the face of adversity and many [traditional] education with their own ASSISTANT challenges throughout our history, exploration of what is possible, and be Jewish people have responded with ready to embrace new ways of doing FINANCIAL MANAGER adaptability and innovation,” he says. things – constantly.” In the context of the fourth Goldstuck says that in his The successful applicant needs the following: industrial revolution, Cohen suggests experience “creativity and curiosity • Excellent computer skills in Microsoft, Pastel, Excel that it therefore, is no surprise Leanne Stillerman Zabow and Kyla are just as important as information Maimon Edinburg • Auditing background would be an advantage that Jewish people, with their technology skills”. • Flexibility in dealing in different facets of the financial entrepreneurial spirit, are contributing “The strongest businesses like Zabow and Edinburg’s experience function to rapid growth in this space. Dropbox or Airbnb just started perfectly illustrates this. “When we • Ability to assist with monthly management accounts Rodney Kuhn, the co-founder of with one or two people, and those began working on Calabash, we did a Johannesburg-based technology businesses could scale.” not have the required technological and reports start-up, adds another facet to ponder Sortd, started by Kuhn and co- skills to realise our vision,” Zabow says. • Detail driven when it comes to Jewish interest in founder Wayne Silbermann, began Nevertheless, “we did not wait to have • Ability to assist with intersystem processing of Ed-Admin techpreneurship. with the trio scratching their own itch. all these ducks in a row; we pushed & Pastel “Entrepreneurs, particularly in “We were faced with [the question]: ahead in our desired direction”. • Good communication skills and ability to work with a team tech, are drawn toward an ideal that how do we manage this continuous Soon a software developer noticed • Ability to work under pressure is intrinsically Jewish – we want to pipeline of emails that stream into their forays into the digital space and • Minimum 5 – 10 years’ experience create and bring meaning into the your inbox like a firehose that never came on board offering the required • Strong bookkeeping background world but we also want to be free stops? skills. Therefore, their advice to • Relevant qualifications (formal qualification required) citizens and live our lives courageously “From that, we thought, what could budding techpreneurs is simply, “Be • Flexibility with tasks and a sound work ethic without any fear of persecution. In be bigger than trying to solve the brave, and start somewhere!” addition we are comfortable with risk world’s email problems?” As Kuhn quips, “startups take A Curriculum Vitae with a letter of motivation with and uncertainty.” he explains. Once they had positioned their chutzpah!” at least two references should be e-mailed to: Certainly, on a global scale, Jewish product as a solution on that scale, people have been behind some of the “You are immediately positioned in a greatest technology success stories. global ecosystem. You are able to reach Sheryl Koseff Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg out to the greatest thought leaders in [email protected] and Google founders Larry Page tech from around the world. That is and Sergey Brin are all the ultimate what makes it exciting, and also makes Closing date for applications: Shabbat table guests. it globally competitive. Wednesday 5th December 2018 Goldstuck lists a number of other “The nugget here is that you have to The SABJE reserves the right not to make an appointment. industry greats who might once have solve problems that are meaningful to Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. been barmy boys saving up to buy a you. If they are meaningful to you, it is starter computer. likely they will be meaningful to other Rodney Kuhn and Wayne Silbermann 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 To celebrate Israel, we must see the country, warts and all JORDAN MOSHE and understand how they have made such an average emergency medical response time in the kingdom of G-d). We have a social impact, and improved the lives of thousands in the world is 20 minutes,” he says. “For a contract to help the world, and bring light to easoned Israel entrepreneur and Middle of people.” person who needs immediate attention, this all its inhabitants. Jews have sought meaning East expert, Avi Jorisch, brought a By way of explanation, Jorisch explored is too long. In Israel, the average is three for thousands of years, and have found it in Smessage to South African Jews this the various technological projects where minutes, and often 90 seconds in major helping others.” week, insisting that if we really want to Israel has shown innovation in recent years, cities.” This is possible only because of United Cautioning that this does not mean that appreciate what Israel has achieved over the including in the areas of water and medical Hatzalah’s Ambucycle network, regular Israel is the most innovative country on the past 70 years, we need to see the country for technology. On the subject of water, he said, motorcycles used by volunteers throughout planet, Jorisch stressed that Israel shines by what it is, warts and all. “Israel is the only country in the world that Israel to make sure they get to emergencies going from nothing to something in spite “Israel has the ability to make the world is entirely water independent. Effectively, within the first few minutes. of its problems. “It’s a start-up nation, not a scale-up nation,” he says. “Israel has its better for everyone, but if we want to see it is the only water superpower. Thanks to Avi Jorisch the full extent of the power that is Israeli its development of certain innovations, problems: the divide between rich and poor, innovation, we need to take it as it is, and Israel has achieved a unique position that the Palestinian conflict, and others. see it, warts and all,” he told the audience in no other country has.” For a country that is “However, it is in spite of these problems an exclusive address at Investec on Tuesday 60% desert, Israel’s advancements in water that Israel continues to offer opportunity. morning. desalination, drip irrigation, waste water When the state was established, Ben Gurion Jorisch was in South Africa for a 36-hour recycling, and other such inventions are said that the gates of Israel had finally opened visit this week at the invitation of Aish South unquestionably astonishing. to the Jews of the world after 200 years. Africa. He addressed a dinner on Monday “Sixty percent of Israel’s water is sourced However, he added that the country now night, and then the Tuesday morning group. from the ocean,” said Jorisch. “Four hundred had a privilege and obligation to tackle 20th He is a thought leader in exploring desalination plants exist around the world, century problems and do good for the whole global innovation trends, the Arab world, and Israel built every one of them. Israel also world. This lies at the soul of the state.” counterterrorism, and illicit finance. He is recycles 90% of its waste water. The runner up Other medical marvels include GPS Jorisch stressed that for too long, we have also a student of Islamic history, and the is Spain, at 18%.” One of the only countries mapping of the brain for precise surgery, been feeding younger generations a narrative author of five books. that charges its people the full cost of water robots which can map out human spines for of victimhood, and that the time had come Speaking about his latest book, Thou without any subsidies, Israel has clearly made back surgery (and perform it themselves), for a change of dialogue. “The time has come Shalt Innovate: How Israeli Ingenuity Repairs a concerted effort to conserve water where even exoskeletons that enable quadriplegics to tell younger people what they can do to the World, he reiterated that if we saw the possible, and according to Jorisch, this will to run marathons. What underlines them all, make the world better.” Through innovation, good and bad in Israel, we would be able to result in it assuming a prominent position in said Jorisch, are three common factors. Jews share a drive to do good, and change life celebrate what a marvel the Jewish state is, years to come. “First, Israeli society is diverse,” he says. for all. We are at a point in time when we are and help it fulfil its social contract to help the “By 2025, Egypt will run out of water. “Arabs, Christians, Bedouins, and Jews work empowered to make the biggest difference world as an innovator and a think tank. The same will happen in Jordan, Syria, and together towards the same goals. Then, there ever, and have waited 2 000 years for this Although a banker at heart, Jorisch Lebanon. In 20 years, Iran and Israel will is the fact that Israel places great emphasis on opportunity.” developed an obsession with Israeli tech become friends because of Israel’s water two of its major institutions, universities and He concluded by saying, “By taking the innovation in 2014, and wanted to get to the technology solutions. Arab countries won’t the military. Lastly, the religious or prophetic good and the bad of Israel, by seeing it for heart of its success. “I wasn’t interested in turn to the United States for water, but vision of Israel is what lies at the heart of the what it really is, we can celebrate it, and take looking at Israel as an economic miracle,” he to Israel. The future for Israel is certainly culture of innovation. it to new heights. Yes, we are concerned about said. “Jews making money is nothing new. bright.” “For 1 500 years, Jews have said in the its challenges, but we cannot overlook the Neither was I concerned with start-ups. I The innovation analyst went on to speak aleinu prayer the line, letaken olam be’malchut things it has done, and continues to do that wanted to find mature Israeli tech companies, about the country’s medical innovation. “The Shakai (improving the state of the world make us say, ‘Wow!’.” WE ARE HERE! A one day campaign to ensure your safety everyday. 28 November - "I can sleep at night 29 November knowing that a critical "Our Jewish way organisation like CSO of life comes with exists. It ensures that my the tremendous family and I can live our responsibility of lives, go to school, go to ensuring that we can shul, and feels safe and protect ourselves by protected.pr The value of the EVERY R1 = R3 ourselves" CSO to the community cannot be overstated" -AK- ALL OR NOTHING -DD

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TIDI BENBENISTI media or the internet, which may not be reliable sources of information. Reliable information he recent measles outbreak in Israel sources should be consulted, such as “Vaccine has once again revived the polarising Information for Mothers and Caregivers”, Tdebate surrounding vaccination. available on the website of the NICD, www.nicd. While in many parts of the world measles ac.za,” she says. has been rendered innocuous because of “In South Africa, every child is offered innoculation, there are those who continue vaccination, but it is not mandatory. I think a to take a stand against it, questioning the law that would make vaccination mandatory efficacy of the MMR (measles, mumps, might be helpful, unless the parent signs a rubella) jab. form refusing vaccination. Patients and their Considered one of the leading causes of parents have the right to autonomy. I don’t death in young children, measles is highly think they should be forced into vaccination contagious and according to the World against their will. But, most of the time, they Health Organisation, can be prevented with are merely hesitant about vaccines rather than a vaccine. opposed to them, and such a law might increase One fatality has been recorded thus far vaccination rates, which would protect the in Israel – the death of an 18-month-old whole community. Schools should also check baby from the Neturei Karta community in vaccination cards before Grade 1 or Grade 6. Jerusalem’s Mea She’aarim neighbourhood. Many children may just have missed certain Many believe it could have been prevented if vaccine doses without their parents being aware the child had been vaccinated. that they are not up to date,” says Suchard. With a vaccination rate of reportedly Choosing not to vaccinate should not be a 50% or less in the country, the choice not criminal offence, says Cohen, as there are still to vaccinate is not uncommon among some people who don’t have easy access to healthcare. members of the ultra-orthodox community “If anything, that should be addressed first in Israel. Although the ultra-orthodox with the use of aborted foetal cells,” she says. grandmothers knew people whose children died before any legislation is passed. But I do think communities in Jerusalem and Bet Shemesh “The vaccines are grown on cancer cells, of measles. We have become complacent, and parents need to consider very strongly whether have experienced the largest number of and the outcome for cancer still unknown. have forgotten about the dangers. Measles is they’re being responsible in not vaccinating reported measles cases, the outbreak has On every vaccine insert, it says it has not also one of the later immunisations, given at six their children, because the scientific evidence spread to the centre, in Tel Aviv, and as far been tested for carcinogenic, mutagenic, and and 12 months of age. Sometimes moms go for is strong and the experience is there that north as Sfat. fertility effects,” this health practitioner says. their six, 10, and 14-week immunisations, and vaccinations are safe, widely used, prevent In early November, 17 children in “The vaccine manufacturer has no liability forget to go back for later visits. Some mothers disease, and that lives have been saved because Williamsburg and Borough Park in Brooklyn, for injuries, which is worrying. Studies have also been influenced by opinions on social of them.” United States, were diagnosed with measles, are often paid for by manufacturers, according to the New York City Department which skews the results, and the Centers of Health, three having contracted it while on for Disease Control and Food and Drug Glenhazel park walk helps us to see a visit to Israel, it’s been claimed. Administration hide pertinent information. In 2018, more than 1 300 cases of measles Vaccines contain glyphosate and are the Halachic wood for the trees have been reported in Israel, with many contaminated, for example, by retrovirus proponents of the vaccine claiming that HERV-K and SV-40, which have a known ILANA STEIN and really see? non-vaccinated children are putting children association with cancer. We opened our eyes, and started to stroll. at risk, calling for them to be barred from “Vaccine immunity wanes, and the ast Sunday morning, at the jaw-creaking And once we started looking, we saw that playschools. While there is no law forcing majority of the adult population are not up hour of 06:00, a small group of people every tree was a different shade of green. We parents to vaccinate their children in Israel, to date with vaccines, so herd immunity does Ltook a walk in the park, marvelling at saw a red bishop in the reeds, and palm swifts, the Knesset is to discuss ways to engage not exist. Parents inactivate the vaccine by birds, trees, and the deep blue sky before the doves, and pigeons sailing past above us. We parents opposed to vaccination. giving fever-reducing medications, so being heat of the day hit. heard the wind in the trees, and yes, we heard In South Africa, the health department vaccinated is a false sense of security. I’m not talking about the Kruger Park the roar of the city beneath it all. advises mothers to vaccinate their children. “There are positive benefits to having (although that is a walk not to be sneezed at), But Johannesburg, with all its noisy Vaccines are offered free of charge at all state childhood illnesses if managed correctly. but rather the park in Glenhazel known as the “cityness”, is also one of the most tree-filled clinics, not only to protect children, but also Vaccines bypass the body’s natural barriers, Japanese Gardens. If you don’t know it, it is a cities in the world. So, we stood in the shade the most vulnerable, an overview shared by so it creates an overloaded immune large park just off Northfield Avenue that has of a Cyprus tree and discussed the uses of Johannesburg GP, Dr Sharoni Cohen. response, and a weakened system. Many a small stream meandering through, flanked trees and their multiple mentions in the “There are lots of myths around healthcare professionals do not vaccinate, on each side by scores of large trees. Torah. vaccination, and with the advent of social which is a red flag about safety. My research The walk was one of the The Japanese Gardens in Glenhazel media, these are spread more easily. There is comes from healthcare professionals, vaccine Academy of Jewish Thought a lot of fear, but it is completely unfounded, inserts, and medical journals. Many parents and Learning’s latest particularly regarding the MMR vaccine. who do not vaccinate, once did, and suffered adventures. Though the About 10 years after it came onto the market damage or death of their children, which is academy is about bringing in the United Kingdom, a study linked the worrying,” she says. Jewish texts and history vaccine to autism, which caused panic and A senior paediatrician who has just into an engaging and adult decreased the uptake of the vaccine. But that returned from a visit to Israel, says that headspace, it is also about study has been completely discredited, so vaccination should be reserved for killer appreciating the world around there’s no validity to that link at all,” she says. diseases. “Today, people vaccinate against us, whether natural or cultural. Cohen says she had her children vaccinated anything; they vaccinate against chicken So, it created the Urban Jungle because she has seen firsthand what happens pox, mumps, but those are not diseases that Walk and 15 brave – or just to children who have not been vaccinated. can do anything to you, so you shouldn’t awake – adults and children “When I was still working for the state, vaccinate. Nobody argues that vaccination joined it for a walk through a women who didn’t have easy access to local is completely harmless, but in the Haredi park in Joburg. clinics couldn’t get their kids vaccinated community, they are against vaccination. Johannesburg is not a place Jordan Moshe Photo: easily, and the children were profoundly ill There, they have taken it to another lauded for its beauty (any Capetonian will tell Trees are accorded a special place both with illnesses that were vaccine-preventable. extreme. Because, when you live in crowded you this). However, there is beauty wherever in narratives and in Halacha, from the first Ultimately, I strongly endorse vaccination as conditions, measles can spread like wildfire, you seek it or open your eyes to it. Even in mention of their creation, through to the a strategy to improve public health because and it’s a very dangerous disease. Measles the suburbs, there is much to appreciate. prohibition of cutting down a fruit tree there is no doubt of its efficacy and its long- is one of the most dangerous and common We chose one of the city’s green lungs – in during a time of war. But, do we ever stop to term goal of keeping all children as safe and diseases that affect mankind. It can be fatal. Glenhazel to boot – to make this point. just appreciate what trees do for us on earth? healthy as possible.” Where we have facilities to combat a disease Indeed, everyone realised that it was bigger Life would be impossible without them, and But it’s this very point that the anti- and combat fatalities, even one death is too and had more life in it than they’d realised. yet sadly, most of the time we’re too busy to vaccination lobby is disputing, including a many, and we should vaccinate,” he says. We began by pointing out that within the appreciate and enjoy them. In other words, healthcare practitioner in Johannesburg, who Dr Melinda Suchard, the Head: Centre for brachot (blessings) that we say each morning, we’re too busy to stop and smell the roses. spoke on condition of anonymity because Vaccines and Immunology at the National one thanks G-d for “opening the eyes of the So, here’s a challenge for those of us in the of her position. “I do not vaccinate my Institute for Communicable Diseases blind”. While this may have other meanings, urban jungle: step outside your house, take children because they have not been tested (NICD), warns about complacency when it part of that blessing, so close to the beginning a walk down the road, stand under the leafy for the MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate comes to measles and vaccination. of the day, is to remind us that the beauty of shade of a tree, watch a bird flit past, and take reductase) gene which is present in up to 60% “Thanks to the impact of vaccinations, the world is indeed all around us. When we a deep breath of that oxygen (made for you by of the population and increases the chances measles deaths have become much less walk to shul or step out for a cuppa on our an obliging tree). Open your eyes, and breathe of vaccine-related injuries. I have seen vaccine common, although measles remains a major stoeps, do we take the time to open our eyes in the world! damaged children and adults. I do not agree killer, particularly of young children. Our 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 13 Jewish American violinist pays flying visit to Cape Town Philharmonic when there are budget cuts, you start with the MOIRA SCHNEIDER arts. I know that very well from my mom being a Yevgeny Kutik in concert teacher in public school, and seeing communities with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra ewish-Russian-American violinist across the country cut their arts budgets. Yevgeny Kutik was in South Africa for “Having said that, I do think that on the Jfour days this month on a whistle-stop flipside – YouTube, the Internet, iTunes – the visit, in which he played with the Cape Town ease of downloading a fantastic performance Erich Camping Photo: Philharmonic Orchestra and performed at the has made classical music probably more widely South African Jewish Museum. listened to than ever before. It’s effortless now to “Usually when I travel to a city, my go and listen to Brahms Symphony No. 2 – it’ll management finds ways to connect me to the take you literally five seconds, and the move of community, both Jewish and general. I’ll teach one muscle in your body. a master class,” he told the SA Jewish Report in a “More and more people are hearing [classical] Skype interview after he left. music, they’re just hearing it on their own terms. “It sometimes happens – you fly somewhere, Most people don’t have 40 minutes to listen you play a concert or two, you leave, and don’t to a Brahms symphony. Some people have five really get to be a part of the community at all. minutes that they want to spend listening to I’m not a big fan of that.” a part of that symphony, and when they have It was because he enjoyed playing with the some more time, they’ll listen to five more Cape Town Philharmonic two years ago, that minutes of it. distribution, and new platforms.” immigration, through a series of eight short he wanted to return to do this again. “I like the “Music is consumed in a different way. It’s His latest project, Meditations on Family, works. orchestra, the musicians, the administration, more accessible. It’s our responsibility as artists involves the release of very short pieces “The goal is to try and convince people to the city hall,” he says. to find a way to modernise reaching out to online on a weekly basis from 18 January. spend two minutes of their week with me, Kutik has played with some of the world’s these audiences. We have to use the tools at “It will be a living archive devoted to to absorb the material, and then come back major orchestras. It was, however, his our disposal, new technology, new avenues of exploring family, memory, heritage, and the next week,” he says. performance of Oyfn Pripetchik in front of 10 000 people during the March of the Living in Poland in April that tugged at his heartstrings. “Doing something so emotional, so personal, in a location that draws up so much memory, history and obviously, pain for the Jewish people, for my heritage, is a very different feeling, much more personal,” he says. “It was an emotion-filled experience.” The song is about a rabbi teaching his young students the aleph-bet. By the end of the 19th century it was one of the most popular songs of the Jews of Central and Eastern Europe, and as such, it is a major musical memory of pre- Holocaust Europe. The emotive Oyfn Pripetchik was one of the piecwes that he played to a spellbound audience at the SA Jewish Museum on 5 November. Born in Minsk, Belarus, Kutik immigrated to the United States with his family in 1990 at the age of five. He is now based in Boston. The 33-year-old hails from a very musical family. His mother was his first teacher when he started learning to play the violin at age five; his father and grandfather were trumpet players in the Belarusian Symphony Orchestra. “I was surrounded by music from age zero,” he says. “They say I showed an interest in music from a very, very early age. I have to believe them, I don’t remember.” His parents left the Soviet Union because of the “horrific” anti-Semitism they experienced there. His mother had been fired from a job, being told that the organisation had already reached its quota of Jewish employees. “Even in pre-school, when [my parents] would take me,” Kutik relates, “they started noticing that the parents of the other children singled me out as the Jewish one. Stuff like that really pushed them over the edge.” When his family arrived in the US, he says, “we were very much supported by the umbrella organisation that encompasses hundreds of small Jewish communities across the US”. “What they did for my family personally in the months, weeks, day of our arrival, and years after, was so profound in terms of support in restarting our lives. They really became a second family to me and my family. It’s something I’ve lived with, processed, and been aware of my whole life in everything that I do. “Being able to travel around for Jewish federations was really the very least I could do to give back. That involved playing for various communities across the country, and telling them about our experience to be living proof of the work that they do, and inspire them to continue.” With all the distractions of the modern age, are young people still interested in classical music? “Yes,” he says, “but it’s a challenge. It used to be that everybody played a musical instrument for a couple of years in their education. I’m seeing more and more how important that education is, especially elementary education. “Personally speaking, purely about the US, I find it tragic how in so many communities, 14 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 No one happy after Shabbat diverts El Al flight to Athens

MARCY OSTER different story in a post on Facebook. El Al plane at Ben Gurion International Airport “After 24 hours to reach Israel, I n El Al plane bound for Israel am broken, broken mainly because of that was delayed from taking the lack of respect of people who are Aoff in New York was diverted observant, who observe tradition and to Athens on Friday to allow Shabbat- Shabbat, who took this issue a step observant passengers to disembark. too far,” Meital wrote. That’s what we know for sure. Meital thanked the flight crew for Moshe Shai/Flash90 Photo: What happened on the plane? That’s its patience and tolerance in spite of another story. the aggressiveness of some of the The flight, which had been passengers. She wrote that “after scheduled to leave John F. Kennedy six hours of flying, I suddenly heard Airport at 18:30 on Thursday, took screaming, and saw a flight attendant off more than five hours late. Bad crying after she was hit and pushed, weather had delayed the arrival of amid threats that they would break the crew by at least a couple of hours, open the door to the cockpit”. and then prevented the departure She also wrote: “I found myself of hundreds of planes. The plane standing and [physically] protecting required de-icing more than once as it flight attendants who were crying, waited in line to leave. and who just wanted to catch their By 23:30, dozens of passengers on breath after the [violent] behaviour the plane demanded to be allowed toward them.” to disembark in New York, fearing Meital called on others to share her that they would still be airborne after post. Shabbat began. The passengers were Yehuda Shlezinger, religious pass in my pocket to make sure we had caused numerous cancellations is over. told to take their seats so the plane affairs reporter for the Yisrael Hayom were talking about the same flight.” and delays for hundreds of flights “We apologise for any discomfort could return to the gate and they newspaper, was on the flight and Chafetz went on to describe the including its own flight departing for caused to our customers, but as could disembark, but instead, the said that reports about the behaviour beauty of a Shabbat spent in a hotel Israel on Thursday evening. said, we preferred to have the flight plane took off. of religious passengers were literally across the street from the “In spite of the cancellation leave New York the same day.” Here is where the stories diverge. exaggerated. airport, with meals provided by the of many flights, we succeeded in Arutz Sheva, meanwhile, reported Some passengers on social media “I must confess, when I opened local Chabad. releasing Flight 002 from New that the Sephardic Chief Rabbi posts accused religious Jewish the news sites on Saturday night, “Hasidim sat and schmoozed with York for our passengers, including of Israel, Yitzhak Yosef, gave passengers of being physically and and saw the crazy headlines about Zionists, Modox [modern orthodox] an intermediate stop in Athens,” permission for another delayed El verbally abusive during the flight ‘bad’ Haredim who ‘pushed flight sat with black hats… I only use these the airline said. “El Al arranged Al flight from New York to land when they realised that they would attendants and threatened to break labels so you can visualise the seating, onward flights to Israel that day on Friday afternoon after the not land in Israel in time for Shabbat. into the cockpit’, I was livid,” he but there were no labels at this seuda for all passengers. Passengers who start of Shabbat. Yosef invoked an Others said El Al flight attendants wrote. “Thousands of likes, hundreds [meal]; we sat in true achdus [unity],” preferred to remain in Athens for exception that says Shabbat may withheld information and then of shares, tons of venom on social he wrote. Shabbat were cared for by company be violated in order to save a life. A service to religious passengers during media, and the news was completely El Al issued a statement saying that representatives, and El Al will passenger on the flight was said to the flight, and did not tell them until fake. I double-checked the boarding the extreme weather in New York return them to Israel after Shabbat be seriously ill. (JTA) several hours later that the plane would land in Athens. Ben Chafetz, the Client Services Linda Sarsour apologises to Jewish members of Director for 121eCommerce.com, said he was among those who were asked Women’s March to leave the plane, even if it meant losing his ticket. BEN SALES current organisers to step down because they because she is a Palestinian American. “Four hours into the flight, the have “allowed anti-Semitism”. “It’s very clear to me what the underlying captain announced that because of inda Sarsour released a statement In her statement on Tuesday, Sarsour said the issue is. I am a bold, outspoken, BDS [Boycott, the Haredim, the plane would stop apologising on behalf of the Women’s group wanted to have a better relationship with Divestment, Sanctions] supporting Palestinian in Athens,” Chafetz wrote, using the LMarch for causing harm to the movement’s the Jewish community. Muslim American woman, and the opposition’s word for fervently religious Jews. Jewish members, and for being too slow to show “Trying to dismantle oppression, while worst nightmare,” she wrote. “They have tried “At which point, all the people who its commitment to fighting anti-Semitism. working within systems of oppression, is hard,” every tactic at their disposal to undermine me, wanted to get off for Shabbos could “We should have been faster and clearer Sarsour wrote. “We are deeply invested in discredit me, vilify me but my roots are too deep, get off the plane first, and then [and in helping people understand our values and building better and deeper relationships with and my work is too clear, and they have not here’s the kicker], all the people who our commitment to fighting anti-Semitism. the Jewish community. And we’re committed to succeeded, so by proxy they began attacking my wanted to continue to Israel would We regret that,” read the statement issued on deepening relationships with any community sister, Tamika Mallory, knowing all too well that also have to get off the plane and go Tuesday afternoon. which has felt left out of this movement. We in this country, the most discardable woman is a on a different plane from IsrAir to go “Every member of our movement matters want to create a space where all are welcome.” black woman.” to Israel. to us – including our incredible Jewish and Linda Sarsour Sarsour has been a polarising figure to “What a shame… I wish El Al had LGBTQ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender] American Jews. Some on the right and centre told the truth. We were stopping in members. We are deeply sorry for the harm we point to her anti-Zionist activism. This week, Athens because El Al made a series have caused, but we see you, we love you, and we the American Jewish Committee condemned of bad calls, and once it landed, it are fighting with you.” her for criticising “folks who masquerade as could not depart on Shabbos which The Women’s March organised mass protests progressives, but always choose their allegiance is why it needed a non El Al plane to against President Donald Trump in January to Israel over their commitment to democracy continue to Israel on Shabbos.” The 2017, and has since been a leading liberal and free speech”, saying it echoed the historical national carrier is not allowed to fly activist group working on behalf of women’s smear that Jews have dual loyalty. on Shabbat. empowerment. But some progressive Jews have worked with The decision to land in Athens The organisation has come under renewed Sarsour, and defended her from charges of anti- angered orthodox and non-orthodox fire recently for Co-Chair Tamika Mallory’s Semitism. They point to her fundraising for the Photo: Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for BET Photo: passengers, for different reasons. associations with Louis Farrakhan, the virulently funerals of victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue “To be very clear, no one was anti-Semitic leader of the Nation of Islam. shooting, as well as her raising funds on behalf of angry at the stewardesses; everyone In February, Mallory posted a photo of herself a vandalised Jewish cemetery. understood that they did not make with Farrakhan after he gave a speech laced with On Tuesday night, soon after posting the the decisions,” Chafetz wrote. “We anti-Semitic statements. Following an outcry apology, Sarsour posted a defiant statement were asking to speak to the pilot, or over the incident, the Women’s March released praising the Women’s March on Facebook. someone who could speak for the a statement saying, “Minister Farrakhan’s “Don’t let people who have not contributed pilot. Again, there were no attempts statements about Jewish, queer, and trans people nor put their bodies on the line define this to break into the cockpit, there were are not aligned with the Women’s March unity The statement strikes a somewhat different moment,” she wrote, referencing Shook and no physical altercations. Yes, there principles.” tone to the one Sarsour published on Monday, other critics. “T]hose who understand that we were some raised voices, but most of The controversy bubbled up again recently, in which she again distanced the group from are all vulnerable under a fascist administration the time [I have the videos to prove when actress Alyssa Milano said she would not Farrakhan, but also suggested that criticism will define this moment. We will win together. it], it was secular Israeli passengers speak at next year’s Women’s March because of the Women’s March was a deflection from We will write history together. It will be a messy who came to yell at the passengers she felt that it had not adequately addressed focusing on anti-Semitism from the far right. She history full of trials and tribulations, hurt and who were concerned about Shabbos anti-Semitism. On Monday, Women’s March co- said the underlying reason people criticise her is pain, but with the consistent understanding that that we were ruining their weekend.” founder Teresa Shook called on the movement’s not because of associations with Farrakhan, but people are counting on us.” (JTA) Passenger Roni Meital told a 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 15

Letters

HERZLIA PUPILS EXERCISING A IN ENVIRONMENT OF HATE FOR ISRAEL, OK FOR HERZLIA FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT TO PROPAGATE ONE PERSPECTIVE

As graduates of Herzlia School, we feel I’m referring to the despicable Jewish statelessness led to proud that Herzlia continues to produce young attention seekers at the slaughter of six million Jews independently minded pupils. Herzlia High who “took the knee” during the Holocaust. The announcement by the headmaster of during the singing of Hatikvah to In 1920, Jews were massacred Herzlia School in Cape Town that two pupils, protest what they called “Israeli by Arabs in Jerusalem, in who kneeled during the singing of Hatikvah treatment of the Palestinians”. 1921 in Jaffa, and in 1929 in at the annual prize giving ceremony, would Does Israel not suffer enough Hebron. Thousands of Jews be severely disciplined, is a sad reflection of in South Africa and the world were murdered from 1936 the disregard for freedom of speech. from a tsunami of hate and to 1939 in the Nazi inspired After more than a century of struggle, support for the terrorist Arab Revolt. Since 1948, Arabs South Africa passed a Constitution which “Palestinian cause”? have launched wars against enshrines freedom of speech. It is a Of course, the victims of Arab Israel to try to drive Jews into fundamental component of democratic terror and the Arab drive for the sea. Since Yasser Arafat society. We should be ensuring that our genocide against Israel’s Jews go launched the latest war in HOT PREMISES children appreciate its importance. When a unremarked. Israel has a right 2000, after rejecting a peace person exercises this right, it is of the nature to exist, determine her own deal, thousands of Jewish men, of speech that it might offend, annoy, and borders, and defend herself as women and children have died TO LET irritate some who listen to the speech. But she sees fit. It need apologise to in Israel by bomb, bullet, and provided it is not hate speech, it should be no one for that. knife. protected. Arabs have been attacking As regards the complaint Kneeling while an anthem is sung is hardly and killing Jews in Eretz Yisrael of the boys that the school Relocate to hate speech. The headmaster argues that since before the 1920s, long curriculum only gives the Israeli the time and place were inappropriate, that before any occupation. side of the story and they want 5 Long Avenue, Glenhazel the pupils flouted school rules, and that the Until the Palestinians accept the “Palestinian side”, well the school’s Zionist values were fundamentally that Israel is here to stay, there entire media in South Africa and disregarded by the act of kneeling. The can be no peace agreement. the universities feed the public answer provided by one of the pupils in They want all their demands only the “Palestinian side”. So Available January 2019 a most impressive interview was that met, yet refuse even to why shouldn’t Jewish schools although he is a Zionist, he considers that recognise Israel’s right to exist. be a place where there is a safe this is not to be equated with concurring Why out of a massive space to learn about Israel’s Ideal for restaurant and with the policies of the present Israeli landmass under Arab control, perspective? government. and a number of Arab states It is reprehensible and vile This case is not about one’s view of the (today they number 22), is it for liberal, leftist Jews in many more options Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Whatever regarded as such an injustice the diaspora to threaten to one’s view, the pupils were exercising a that a number of Arabs should withdraw their support for Apply: Joe Marx (011) 440-9551 fundamental right. That is surely what be a minority in a Jewish state, Israel if Israel defends herself education aims to achieve. – Dennis Davis, where they enjoy full civil and with too much force. – Gary Gilad Stern, Cape Town political rights? Selikow, Johannesburg 16 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 Israeli maestro Brands music as source of inspiration and healing

JORDAN MOSHE rather than merely survive, we can thrive no matter what.” sraeli musician and conductor, Nir Brand, is This energy was clear at Brand’s first inspired to bring music to people the world performance in Sandton this week. Held at Iover. Brand, who is visiting South Africa this the Auto & General Theatre on the Square week, believes that no matter how old a piece on Monday evening, the show, Time to Fall of music, it has the ability to empower listeners in Love, took audiences on a journey through Nir Brand today, and make them believe that they can with children classical and contemporary music. Frequently overcome any challenges. at Chris Hani encouraging his audience to sing along, “The application of a piece of music is Baragwanath Brand created a unique musical experience universal,” he says. “Its powerful message is hospital which conveyed not only his personal story, relevant to any person anywhere in the world.” but encouraged audience members to think A conductor of orchestras, a presenter on the differently about music and its capabilities. Israeli Galgalatz radio station, and an educator The maestro moved from Brahms to John with a love of classical music, Brand visited Williams effortlessly. He fiercely beat out the South Africa with his wife, Elana, as part of his Turkish March one moment, then shifted into project to light up every corner of the world the moving melody of Yerushalayim Shel Zahav through music. the next. Here at the invitation of Israeli Ambassador His performance even included a special to South Africa, Lior Keinan, this Tel Avivi and pursue piano lessons,” he says. performances in schools that are designed to number dedicated to his wife, whose birthday is engaging with audiences from various “My parents both loved the piano, but had no enrich children’s personal experiences through was celebrated that day, and who joined him on walks of life. He is putting on signature piano means to learn how to play in Romania. They music, and equip them with a special set of life stage at the piano. performances in Sandton, in Soweto for invested in my learning, and my grandmother skills. A proud Israeli and committed citizen of Slipping in personal anecdotes about underprivileged groups, and even for patients at would accompany me to lessons regularly, the world, Brand says that the spirit and energy interactions with music personalities Itzhak the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. taking two buses to get me there.” with which Israelis take on their challenges is Perlman and Michel Legrand along the way, Although this is Brand’s first visit to South Says Brand, “Because of their commitment something he channels in his music. the maestro delivered a performance that was Africa, this is not his first time on the continent. to me despite our modest circumstances, I “Israel has enormous talent, and a sense entertaining and moving from start to finish. From Kenya to Nigeria, this acclaimed musician feel I must make an effort to change the world of suffering,” he says. “The former helps us “Music is a tool that enables us to bring about has visited African countries and beyond to through music and bring its beauty to others.” address the latter. We never give up. We use tikkun olam, making the world a better place for further his vision of the proliferation of music. It is for this reason that he established Music our talents to advance our culture, music, everyone,” says Brand. “By using this special “My work allows me to engage with people Without Borders, a non-profit organisation literature, and technology. The energy of Israel power to help others, one can give little, and get everywhere in a different way,” he says. “An that brings humanitarian concerts to countries is extraordinary, and as Jews, we know that so much back. array of emotions can be conveyed and explored around the world. For the past eight years, he through music as a universal language, and has travelled on behalf of the Israeli Ministry Letters without knowing it, we can speak to each other of Foreign Affairs to put on concerts in Nigeria, without words.” Cameroon, Myanmar, Angola, Kenya, Uganda, KNEE-JERK RESPONSE UNAVOIDABLE WITH IDIOTIC PROTEST Born in Beer Sheva to Romanian parents, Mumbai, and South American countries. I rack my brain as to why the conduct of the organisations who question its very existence. Brand was raised with a profound appreciation He also founded the ClassiKid music two Herzlia boys was met with such staunch In the context of the present matter, the for music from an early age. “My mother and programme in Israel in 2000. This innovative criticism. headline grabbing “taking the knee” during the grandmother insisted that I nurture my talent programme involves workshops and The response from those in support of that singing of the national anthem of the state of conduct (such as the unnamed parent quoted Israel (in a country thousands of kilometres in Tali Feinberg’s article, and Julie Leibowitz’ from Israel) gives rise to a more than probable article in the SA Jewish Report of 15 November) inference that the knee taker is, in fact, is that the boys are merely (and “courageously”) protesting the very existence of the state of THE SOUTH AFRICAN exercising freedom of speech and conscience. Israel (as would the burning of the Israeli flag), When the freedom-of-speech card (a pillar as opposed to a particular government policy of any democracy, with people being entitled in force at the time. JEWISH REPORT to criticise particular actions or omissions as The latter inference the boys and their they see fit) is played, who can argue against it? parents obviously feel is valid, for otherwise And then I realise why those responses are an why point out that they are Zionists and IS HIRING! inappropriate and misguided justification for believe in the state’s existence? That this OFFICE COORDINATOR the conduct in question: context is everything! conduct required explanation by the boys As reported, these boys are at pains to afterwards about what they intended points point out that they are Zionists, and believe to the stupidity of the “taking the knee” We are looking for a passionate, well organised, disciplined, in the existence of the state of Israel, but movement as a whole. and media savvy individual to fulfill the role of office coordinator, are protesting certain actions by the current So, if you want to criticise the Israeli debtors’ clerk, receptionist, and social-media manager. Israeli government. And therein lies the government, by all means do so; if you want The individual will report directly to the CEO and work answer. Hatikvah, like the Israeli flag, is an to be a free thinker, by all means be one. closely with our sales and editorial team. official symbol and representation not of But, please do not think for a moment that any particular Israeli government, but of the this type of staged conduct will be seen by The scope of the position will include: state of Israel, an entity that exists above and those working towards the destruction of beyond the government that happens to be in the state of Israel as anything other than Social Media management: Administrative support: power at any given time. confirmation that there are Jews who make v Manage the SA Jewish Report v Manage the office front desk At this time, the state of Israel finds itself common cause with them. – Terence Ossin, social-media platforms by publishing v Sales administration having to deal with international bodies and Johannesburg daily posts, monitoring comments, v General office administration and ensuring that these platforms v Liaise with debtors, and take KASRILS’ RANT HAS HIDDEN AGENDA increase in reach and subscribers ownership of all processes relating Ronnie Kasrils’ op ed in last week’s Saturday interest, especially given the current v Strong proficiency with social media to debtors Star amazes this reader. Is the action of exposure of state capture, but our Ronnie is essential (Facebook, Twitter and v Excellent telephonic and two young pupils at a Jewish school of such chooses to focus on one of the smallest Instagram) interpersonal skills national importance that this newspaper minority groups in this country, with a v Proficiency with trends in digital and v Excellent client relationship skills would publish it on its opinion page? population of less than 70 000 people. social media tools v Strong process implementation skills Methinks not, and methinks Kasrils’ The school that Kasrils is targeting followed v Basic video editing v The ability to work under pressure agenda once again needs the exposure a democratic path in deciding to have the v Design and post memes and content while multitasking, with attention to it deserves. First, the singing of another national anthem of another country sung that drives engagement and website detail an absolute must country’s national anthem is democracy at alongside our own, but Kasrils, like many of traffic v A team player with the ability to work work. Democracy that Kasrils himself fought his comrades in the party, seems to have little v Development and implementation of with the rest of the team to render a so hard for, yet has done precious little to respect for that process, and the promotion creative strategies that will increase professional service defend as a result of him and his comrades of anti-Semitic tropes takes precedence over a SAJR’s social media community putting party before country. Yet, what system that he supposedly struggled for. v Analyse, review and report on does “Red Ronnie” devote almost an entire Sadly, our country is getting more polarised effectiveness of campaigns and page to? A section of the population that he by the day, yet Ronnie stokes the fires of efforts to maximise results south african despises. hatred and polarisation instead of putting the v Report on website and social media Second, he fails to criticise his fellow ideals of democracy first. Isn’t that the agenda analytics The source of quality content, news and insights travellers, the elite of the ruling party, who that needs exposure? Instead of devoting a opt to send their children to elite private page to inconsequential school news, he turns Please email your CV to [email protected] schools, who opt to have medical treatment it into his personal hate campaign. – Allan abroad, all issues that are of national Wolman, Johannesburg 23 – 30 November 2018 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 People getting nasty in November aybe it’s just me, but I am finding people just someone wanting to note that he had noted that was still better than the person who said that my more angry than usual at the moment. I am I had indulged in a few empty carbs too many of late. article regarding the kneeling-boys-of-Herzlia was Mnot sure if it’s the insane and unpleasant INNER VOICE Which is perfectly true. But unnecessarily vacuous, and that I should sit down and shut the hell heatwave that has hit Johannesburg that is causing unnecessary, I thought. up. this rattiness. Perhaps it’s because it’s November. The kneeling-boys-of-Herzlia (as they have now It’s lucky that I am not sensitive. The year is almost done, schools are winding-down, Howard Feldman come to be known) is another such example. If ever Economically, it has been a hard year for South December holidays are in sight, and people are tired. there was a story without substance or allure or Africans. As Jews, we have felt targeted and under- Really tired and really depleted. And, I encourage it. Whether it’s my music choice, anything remotely interesting, this was one. And yet, valued, and as supporters of Israel, we have been Or, perhaps it’s that we are emotionally spent. my opinion, or anything else, I want my listeners to in less time than it took to bend over, or down, the frustrated and misunderstood. The weather is not I have been at this media thing for a while now, engage. But last week was a free for all. The SMS story had made headlines all around the country, helping either. and I am not sure that I recall a period where people line was filled with angry, nasty messages. and then all around the world. Reaction to it was What is clear to me is that we all need a holiday. It’s have been so testy, short, and downright irritable. “Howard, the most surprising part of that running extreme, with those condemning them calling for the clear that November is an angry month, and that we I communicate in many ways, and they let me story is that you said you have run a 10km race. I’ve re-instatement of the death penalty, whilst those on are now running on emergency tank. We don’t have know what people think of, well, anything. And I seen you and I’m struggling to believe it sorry love the other team insisting that everyone, including the the capacity to detour, and we certainly don’t have the love it. I really do. Mostly. But over the past week, I Brian.” swimming coach at the school be fired. There was patience for anything. Least of all each other. have seen a level of volatility creep into some of the “Love Brian?” Really? My immediate thought was no balance, and there was no understanding. There But we need to try. We need to implement a dialogue. that “Brian” must be a friend (soon to be ex- friend) was just anger. perspective rule, where we take a step back from The SMS line on the morning show is one of my wanting to have some fun with me. So, I put his My Twitter feed was no less gentle. I was even a situation before responding. That we don’t tweet favourite modes of communication. Listeners moan number into my phone, but my Samsung S9 Galaxy tweeted at by Steve Hofmeyr, who was insistent on angry, and that we don’t take everything personally. and complain, and tell me everything I do wrong. (+) failed to recognise it. Brian, it would seem, was something that I didn’t really understand. And this At least let’s try.

Community Column

A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies Respect my values; I’ll respect yours a person do when his most precious claimed it was not as serious as that. Exchange with Ramaphosa gives symbol – such as Shabbat observance – is It sounds ugly. But one can also SAJBD conference unique relevance TAKING ISSUE violated beyond his control? Should he understand the Haredi anger, in spite of throw his proverbial toys out of the cot? their inappropriate response. They had his year, as previously noted Or step back and look for another way? been hesitant about boarding the flight in this column, the South Geoff Sifrin And what about simple good manners? in New York. But, after the pilot told TAfrican Jewish Board of The Haredis’ raucous behaviour is them the plane would reach Israel before Deputies’ Gauteng conference is, The story which went viral in Jewish objectionable, and they would never Shabbat, and then would not let them for the first time, being held in two circles last week (reported on page 14) have behaved like that on a Lufthansa off, they were understandably furious at parts. The first, held on 7 October, about chaos on an El Al flight to Israel or Swissair flight. But open-mindedness landing in Athens, having to spend all of comprised the necessary formal, which was delayed due to a snowstorm, must allow for a contrary view. The truth Shabbat there. The scenario ended up as procedural components of such would have been funny to an outside is, most secular Jews don’t understand a power stand-off between Haredim and gatherings, and was aimed mainly observer. It would be like a scene from how important Shabbat observance is to secular Jews. at our affiliate organisations. The a British comedy, with black-coated religious Jews. They “just don’t get it”, What’s to be done? There has always second, aimed at the broader Haredim running up and down aisles as one commentator said. But, perhaps been tension between religious and community and organised around shouting, and secular passengers religious Jews should have planned their secular Jews. The genius of Jewish society the availability of President Cyril cowering in their seats. But for Jews, travels better to avoid any chance of derives partly from this. Each side has Ramaphosa, will take place this it captured the poisonous antagonism violating Shabbat – things can always go produced great minds. But the rift today Above Board Sunday. We are already fully booked, among them about religion. The plane, wrong in the messy world of global travel. is bitterer than ever, the sides more Shaun Zagnoev but thanks to the wonders of which left New York late, landed in Israelis are not, in general, an easy- militant. Even the split between “secular” modern technology, everyone can participate via live streaming Athens instead of Tel Aviv to avoid going, tolerant people. Many Israelis of all Tel Aviv on the Mediterranean coast, and (for details, see our Facebook page). desecrating Shabbat. stripes, secular and religious, have anger “religious” Israel in the Jerusalem hills The core part of the conference will be an exchange of views The Haredi passengers have been issues and an unwillingness to hear the displays this. between Ramaphosa and eminent business leader Stephen roundly condemned in the media for the other side. Step back for a long view. Jewish Koseff about the challenges currently facing South Africa, and ruckus they caused after believing they So here, roughly, are the two sides of survival derives not only from study of what is being done, or could be done, to address them. The key had been lied to by El Al, and voicing this the story. Secular passengers claim that Torah and Talmud, but also oppression message we wish to convey to Ramaphosa and his government is vociferously to the crew. However, they 10 or 15 Haredi passengers, dressed in by non-Jews over centuries, which made that South African Jewry is fully behind his efforts to get things were clearly displaying the schism in the their black hats and coats, ran up and Jews stick together. Now that they are back on track in our country, and will readily contribute the Jewish and Israeli world, with its own down the aisles, yelling at the staff, “Liars, not oppressed, must they turn against resources and skills we have in our community to further those logic. Secular passengers have a right to cheaters, you lied to us!” and started each other by choice? It is sad and goals. be furious at the commotion, but need to shoving flight attendants, some of whom embarrassing. Non-Jews must look at This being the centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela, look deeper. apparently ended up crying, leading other this scenario, and see not a comedy, but we will also celebrate and reflect on the Mandela legacy, with Haredi and secular Jews both tend to passengers to intervene. Later, after the a community in vicious chaos, eating its reference to some of those from our own community who, in see each other negatively. But what should flight, other religious commentators own. various fields, have made themselves a part of his inspiring story. The commemoration of significant historical events and personalities is in itself a worthy exercise, but applying the lessons of those times to the here and now is perhaps even more ALL CHILDREN important in today’s South Africa. Nelson Mandela, in spite of the gross NEED injustices to which he and the majority of NEED South Africans like him were subjected under apartheid, was able to look beyond racial TO categories and see the fundamental humanity of each and every individual. This enabled him to envisage a South Africa in which all citizens, READ! while never forgetting the unhappy events of their collective past, would work side by side in Does your child find reading difficult and forging a better future for all. We know that in recent years, our society frustrating? has progressively strayed from that ideal, yet from South Africa’s own history, it is clear how Japari is one of Johannesburg’s finest assisted far greater divisions between its people can be learning schools. bridged when sufficient good will, trust, and unity of vision exists. This was the example set Our unique READING DEPARTMENT by Mandela, and indeed that whole generation who ushered in the new democratic era. We offers individual reading support can take courage and guidance from what they achieved as we strive to realise the ideals to which they devoted their lives. T: 011 646-2132 ▪ E: [email protected] ▪ W: www.japari.co.za • L isten to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk, 101.9 ChaiFM every Friday from 12:00 to 13:00. 18 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 King David Linksfield brings Ariel outdoor day makes learning fun King David Ariel recently took part in its second games such as tug-of-war, while working on gross Marimba magic to Israel outdoor classroom day for 2018. Outdoor motor and co-ordination skills. Rave O lessons s part of King David Schools and Israel’s 70- marimbas will be left in Israel after the students classroom day is a worldwide campaign to were taught in the garden, with the focus on year celebration, King David Primary School return to South Africa. Lithgow will train some of promote outdoor play and learning. More than word building skills. MindUp sessions were held, ALinksfield’s marimba band departed last Har Tuv’s music teachers so that they are able to 140 000 children in South Africa and 3.5 million using the current theme of gratitude. Through Thursday for a trailblazing trip to perform in Israel. teach their students how to play the marimbas. children worldwide participated in the day as group discussion, the children explored what Created six years ago, the KDL Marimba The intention is that this musical collaboration will part of a campaign to introduce innovative ideas gratitude is and ways to display it. They recorded Band, is made up of eight King David students facilitate the creation of a Har Tuv Marimba Band, for learning and play that involve our natural the person or thing they were most grateful for between the ages of 12 and 14. They are trained strengthening the partnership between King David environment. on a leaf, which culminated in the gratitude tree on a weekly basis by extra-curricular teacher Schools in South Africa and their partner schools The outdoor classroom day’s website states, displayed in the school’s reception area. Joan Lithgow, who is Musical Director for and regions in Israel. “Lessons learnt outdoors, whether maths, science Hebrew, art, and science lessons were also held nongovernmental organisation Education Africa. The students will perform at all three of King or language, often stay with us for life. Being outside, including sketching different parts of The Israel trip and the opportunity to share the David Primary Schools’ twinning schools. Pupils outdoors helps children focus, boosts creativity the school, and exploring the water cycle. The passion and musical talent of these youngsters will be hosted by families on Kibbutz Tzora for the and imagination, and can simply be more fun.” day ended with a water session under the trees, internationally has been the long-time dream of duration of their stay. The trip will include a visit to The notion of the outdoor classroom is based including a slip and slide, sprinklers, fozzie foam, Darryl Frankel, the Vice-Principal of King David Jerusalem, where the group will busk at the Ben on the belief that children who have the freedom and ice bites. Senior Primary School Linksfield. Yehudah Market, culminating in a concert for the to play today, making friends, getting lost in the In spite of the incredible heat, the children all After a lot of hard work and many hours of community of Beit Shemesh. moment, and having fun, are better prepared had fun and enjoyed the variety of activities and planning and discussions, the dream became a The trip is a powerful venture, giving South for whatever tomorrow throws at them. Play novelty of learning outdoors, thus meeting the reality. Together with Partnership2Gether and the African Jewish children the opportunity to play helps children to build friendships, test their goal of the campaign. Israel Centre, the marimba band will tour and traditional African instruments and share their own boundaries, and solve their own problems. perform around the Beit/Shemesh/Mateh Yehuda African heritage in a unique manner. It enhances It’s central to a child’s development and their region, bringing a taste of Africa to Israel. the twinning endeavour between King David and enjoyment of childhood. The group took three combination marimbas Har Tuv, and represents South African Jewry in a The classes built on Ariel’s first outdoor and one bass marimba with it to Israel. These culturally relevant and meaningful way. learning day in May. Sessions were planned around the therapy disciplines at the school, including occupational therapy and speech and Nirvana Rogers Photo: language therapy, as well as some core learning and creative skills. They included a mini Olympics session for each class, where the children participated in team Ethan Jankelowitz, Jordan Rozentvaig and Liorah Schneid Progressive congregations join forces for Mensch Mitzvah Day The Gauteng progressive Jewish community came needed in the neighbourhood. It is my hope that this together last weekend to help the less fortunate of mitzvah day inspired many to continue their good Hillbrow as part of Mensch Mitzvah Day, a global work, following the wise words of our sages that Jewish-led day of social action. They did so under “one mitzvah leads to another”. Jordan Milner, Adiv Blumenthal, Aiden Sack, Amit Frankel, Joshua Kahn, Jayden Klotnick, Jonty the leadership of Rabbi Sa’ar Shaked (Beit Emanuel), Hirschson and Eden Novick Rabbi Adrian M Schell (Bet David), and Reeva Forman (Temple Israel/SAUPJ Gauteng). ORT Jet shows power of collaboration After celebrating Havdalah together at the new Bet David Campus in Morningside, about 50 mitzvah “The word that encapsulates ORT Jet is all those involved in the success of ORT Jet. At makers made more than 1 000 sandwiches and ‘hope’”, said Ian Janet, ORT Jet veteran heart, this is the power of collaboration. These collected soft drinks and sweets for children. On volunteer mentor at the ORT Jet Annual people have the highest standards of ethics Sunday morning, the group met again at Temple Awards, recently. ORT JET, the and decency, generosity of spirit, and vision. Israel in Hillbrow to hand out the food packages. Face enterprise development division May you all grow from strength to strength.” painting and candy floss stations made the day extra of ORT SA, was established ORT Jet Manager Helene Itzkin pointed sweet for kids, as did jazz-musicians Siphiwe Shiburi to assist, support, uplift, and out that the contribution of ORT Jet to the on drums and Yonela Mnana on keyboard, who empower small-to-medium- economy far outweighs the amount of entertained the adults. sized businesses within the donor funding required to run the “It was wonderful to see members of our shuls South African Jewish department. “We would like to working hand in hand to bring some tikkun (fixing) community. continue to scale up the work we into this world,” said Rabbi Schell. “At Temple Israel Said do,” she said. “To do this, we need Hillbrow, we witness day by day how much help is Making sandwiches at Bet David in Sandton Chief Rabbi corporate and other support.” Dr Warren Sunday (25 November) Tuesday (27 November) Yuneal Padayache, Department of Trade Goldstein, “I Nadine Hocter, the owner of Sheer • Second Innings hosts Jana Nel performing • WIZO hosts Clinical Kinesiologist and Industry. Time: 09:00 to 11:00. would like to pay Bliss, won the coveted ORT SA Beautiful Noise. Time: Tea at 10:00. Richard Sutton. Your chance to hear an Venue: 44 Central Street, Houghton. tribute to the Business of the Year Award. The Meeting at 10:30. Venue: Gerald international lifestyle guru talk about RSVP: [email protected]/ mentors and the business grew 35% this year alone, and Horwitz Lounge, Golden Acres. Cost: healthy eating and lifestyle. Time: 09:30 011 728 7154 mentees, and to is now a leader in corporate massage. R20 members, R40 visitors. AT for 10.00. Donation: R180 Thursday (29 November) H ’S Includes tea and light (includes a delicious tea). • ORT SA hosts Lynn Joffe in a creative Kids’ Christmas toys a mighty mitzvah W

refreshments. Contact: O Call for venue details. workshop: How to tell your brand story. The Union of Jewish Women (UJW) members volunteered to wrap the gifts for boys and girls Linda 011 532 9701 N Bookings: Joceline Time: 18:00 to 21:00. rolled up their sleeves In the centre court of the in different coloured paper with the age group • The Jewish Women’s 082 441 4375; Venue: 44 Central Street, Houghton. Norwood Mall last Sunday to fulfil their Mitzvah clearly marked on each. Benevolent Society hosts Lorraine 083 268 8016; Cost: R100 for ORT Jet members or R200 Day Wrap-a-Thon mandate. At the close of the day, about 370 Christmas the Sonia Bernstein Book Fair. Time: Leslie 083 456 3911; or for non-members. RSVP: Mitzvah Day, an presents had been wrapped 08:30 to 12:30. Venue: Jabula Recreation Jenny 011 645-2515/ [email protected]/011 728 7154 annual day of faith-based for children at the Alexandra Centre, Anne Street, Sandringham. Cost: [email protected] • Join WIZO every Thursday for a Lunch social action celebrated Township Aftercare Centre (run All books R10. Call 011 485 5232 Wednesday (28 November) & Learn shiur with Rabbi Michael Katz. internationally, was founded by the UJW); for children from • The Women’s International Zionist • Second Innings hosts an outing to the Time: 13:00 at Beyachad, 2 Elray Street, by Laura Marks in the United Pimville and Riverlea; and an Kingdom in 2005. It is extra 40 gifts were earmarked Organisation (WIZO) invites you to the Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary at Raedene. Contact: WIZO office: showcased in South Africa for children in an identified award winning production of The Revlon Hartebeespoort. Bus departs at 09:00. 011 645 2515 by the UJW. informal settlement. The balance Girl. Time: 15:00. Venue: Auto & General Meet the bus in the parking below Friday (30 November) A plethora of toys and of the large number of books Theatre on the Square. Cost: R210 per Golden Acres. Cost: R280, includes bus, • Shalom Masorti Seniors hosts a seniors books for children aged which were not used will be person. For bookings, call: entrance, and guided tour. (Tours are tea. Time: 14.30 for 15:00. There will

between 3 and 18 spilled Bev Cohen Photo: donated to the Johannesburg 011 645 2515/079 746 1902 normally R320 a person, we are paying be a selection of board games, cards, and out of a number of shopping Talya and Loren Storger with Glynis General Hospital Paediatric OT Monday (26 November) only R150 per person) Contact: Ros Traub of course, the usual convivial, friendly Revenson trolleys. Where there were Department. • The Union of Jewish Women hosts Hilary 082 557 5184 and Doris Skikna atmosphere. Lisa Hirshowitz will be speaking insufficient goods in any of the age groups, the Mitzvah Day is one of the many highlights Joffe, economist, journalist and editor on 076 403 5617 on her road to frum-kite. Donation of R15 money (in lieu of toys) generously donated by on the UJW calendar, and each year, a new and The economic situation at the moment – • ORT SA hosts a discussion on How will be appreciated. Contact Esther on members of the community and the general exciting project is undertaken. This year’s project hot off the press. Time: 10:00. Venue: business can assist with youth 011 485 5619 Monday, Wednesday, public filled the gaps. will bring Christmas happiness to so many 1 Oak Street, Houghton. Donation: R40. and “Learn how to Thursday, and Friday mornings, from 08:30 A few Grade 9 St Stithians College pupils, children who otherwise would not be celebrating unemployment who were completing their community service, their special day. Contact: UJW office: 011 648 1053 improve your BBBEE scorecard”. Speaker: to 12:30 for more information. SHEBA MEDICAL CENTER’S S. A. NATIVE DR. TALIA GOLAN IS HONOURED IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

BY KEN STEPHENS

Noted American national biology of pancreatic cancer, TV talk show host and in developing early detection broadcasting mogul mechanisms for the disease, and Armstrong Williams recently in discovering new treatment hosted an intimate gathering options. Each of these remains at his home in Washington, a real challenge.” D.C. with special guests Dr. Williams spent three days Talia Golan, the South African at Sheba this past August, born medical expert who is filming a variety of segments on the forefront of pancreatic for The Armstrong Williams cancer research at Sheba Show and Sinclair Broadcast Medical Center, Tel HaShomer Group, the largest operator of in Ramat Gan, Israel and Dr. TV stations across the United Ben Carson, United States States. One of those segments Secretary of Housing and included an in-depth and Urban Development (HUD). emotional interview with Dr. During the private dinner, Dr. Golan. Golan and Dr. Carson discussed (left to right)—Candy Carson, Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Talia Golan “It was an honor hosting Dr. some of the groundbreaking and Armstrong Williams. Talia Golan and Secretary cancer research at Sheba Ben Carson at my home for an Medical Center. Dr. Golan (nee evening of thought-provoking Feinberg), who made Aliyah discussion about pancreatic from Pretoria to Israel when cancer and Sheba Medical she was 13 years old and began sheba – israel’s largest medical center Center,” said Williams. her career at Sheba nearly a “Dr. and Mrs. Carson were Sheba is the beating heart of Israeli medicine. Every year, 1 in 5 Israelis decade ago, is the founder and thoroughly impressed as Dr. are treated at Sheba. Sheba’s world-class innovation and medical director of Sheba’s Pancreatic Golan detailed the progress research are changing the face of modern medicine, in Israel and Cancer Center. She focuses around the world. With an emphasis on patient care and integrated that Israel’s national hospital her research specifically on medicine, Sheba is doing more than treating illness … it is changing continues to make in all areas lives. pancreatic cancer biology with of cancer research. Dr. Golan the goal of improving patient is a remarkable and humble • Sheba treats 1.5 million people per year. treatment and care. physician, as well as an • Sheba’s staff of 9,000 includes 1,500 doctors. “We are constantly working on incredible spokesperson for the • Sheba performs 260,000 diagnostic imaging exams per year new and innovative medicines promising progress in cancer • Sheba conducts 1,600,000 lab exams per year in collaboration with other research.” hospitals and cancer research eng.sheba.co.il Dr. Golan added, “We are units like MD Anderson (at making such incredible strides - Executive Director the University of Texas), Naomi Hadar in the field of pancreatic cancer +27 82 907-7728 PMH (Canada) and NYU in research. It was an honor [email protected] the USA,” revealed Dr. Golan. to be at this dinner and Mr. “The biggest thing for me right Armstrong’s home to share now is working with various SOUTH AFRICAN FRIENDS OF the incredible progress we are SHEBA MEDICAL CENTER research groups to make rapid making at Sheba and in Israel.” progress in understanding the 20 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 – 30 November 2018 Israel in top three at Futbol World Cup in Cape Town

SAUL KAMIONSKY Jewish community’s hospitality. posed by the men from Down Under, before One of the players of the seven-man squad “We got a very big warm heart from the beating host nation South Africa 2-1 in a nail- for Israel’s F5WC campaign is an observant Jew. he Futbol Five-a-Side World Cup Jewish community here. They hosted us twice biting quarter final. “He was moved to a hotel close by the pitch (F5WC), scheduled to be staged in at their homes for a nice party and barbeque,” According to Mor, this was by no means an so he could walk to the pitch. He can play on TShanghai, was moved to South Africa at says Israel’s F5WC Country Partner, Dudi Mor, easy task. “With the crowd and the pressure of Saturday, but he can’t drive. We got permission the last minute. No clear reasons were given, who was with the team in South Africa. “They the organiser, we had to push, but we still beat from the rabbi,” says Mor. but for the Cape Jewish community, which has came to cheer us in the games, and I am positive the home team.” This meant that all of Israel’s squad could recently discovered a love of Futbal, it was a gift. that at least 60% or 70% of the fact we won was Israel encountered the Bulgarians in the compete in the biggest amateur football This was particularly the case because due to them, because they carried Israel flags semi-finals, and after the game ended 1-1 in tournament in the world against more than 280 spectators got to witness the Israeli team and sang Hatikvah, pushing the players to give regulation time, the blue-and-white team lost international players from 32 countries. fighting for the title last weekend, coming in a more than 100%.” 4-3 on penalties, and were knocked out of the All the games were played using the Fives tight third to Argentina and Bulgaria, in first Mor hopes there will be another futbol five-a- tournament. Futbol format, which is basically normal soccer, and second place. side tournament next year, but the Israeli F5WC However, by virtue of losing on penalties in a but is played on artificial grass, in an outdoor players will never forget sudden-death and therefore achieving a better stadium that is of a smaller size than a normal their stay in Cape Town, and result than the other semi-finalists, Israel placed soccer field, and is an action-packed and goal- the efforts Cohen made to third. intensive game. welcome them. The Israeli players left an indelible mark on the Caleb Levitan sets new record in Spain Cape Town Jewish futbol group at the South African Junior Closed Chess players. “Seeing them live JACK MILNER Championships earlier this year. was great entertainment, The tournament in Spain comprises 135 and to see that there was The talented, globe-trotting, chess-playing twins children from 86 countries. It is played over 11 a Jewish factor involved, continue to rewrite the South African record rounds, which is a far cry from the African Youth and not just, you know, the books in the Under 8 age group – this time at Chess Championships that the boys won in Manchester Uniteds of the the World Cadet Chess Championships staged at August, first because of the size of the field, and world, was great. We could Santiago de Compostela in Spain. second because the level of play is far higher. Egypt and Israeli goalies hug after the draw between Israel and Egypt really identify with the Caleb Levitan’s individual performance broke An average game lasted about three hours, Ronen Cohen, the Chairperson of Maccabi team,” says Cohen. the South African record for any South African with one of their games - against Russia - going Western Province and the Futsal convener, was Israel played six matches over 17 and 18 of any age or gender in a world competition. on for more than four and a half hours. thrilled to be able to watch the games. “About November 2018. They kick-started their This gifted eight-year-old finished 11th in the The boys delivered strong individual three weekends before the World Cup took tournament against Egypt with a 1-1 draw in world on points at the tournament that ran from performances, and they secured positive place, it was moved and Cape Town had about this fast-paced, 20-minute, five-a-side format, November 3 to 15. His twin, Judah, also improved results against the best of India, Australia, Chile, three weeks to prepare for the event,” says and went on to beat Spain 4-0, before being his position as he started the championship in Lebanon, Slovakia, Indonesia, Spain (twice), Cohen. Fortunately, Cape Town already had its humbled by Mexico in a 2-1 loss in the group 122nd place, but had broken into the top 100 in Argentina, France (twice), Bosnia, and Jamaica. own Fives Futbol facilities at Century City. stages. the world by the end. Both boys finished well ahead of their initial Not only did the Israeli team come in the top Despite this loss, Israel garnered enough The Levitans were two of three South Africans seedings, and their results were the best South three in the fifth Futbol championships, its points to progress to next round, where they who participated in the tournament. They African team performance of any age group for members were also treated to the Cape Town played Australia. They overcame the challenge earned their places after winning in their age- the tournament.

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