23 March 2012 / 29 Adar 5772 Volume 16 - Number 10

friday 23 march 2012 / 29 Adar 5772 volume 16 - number 10

news I 3 opinion I 6 letters I 7 tapestry I 8 community columns I 10 youth I 18 sports I 20

BOOKS: south african Care of Wooden Floors by Will Wiles

“ imaginative brilliance...” jewish report www.sajewishreport.co.za VictimsVictims ofof terrorterror

Rabbi Jonathan Sandler and his two sons, Arieh, left, and Gabriel, were killed in the shooting at the Ozar Hatorah School in Toulouse, France. The rabbi's wife is holding their daughter. (Flash90/JTA) See pages 3,6,10 Nominations now open Is Pesach too Yom Ha’atzmaut: SAZF Munich SAKS: Kaddish for a for Jewish Achievers expensive? The says women can sing massacre non-Jew You can now nominate your favourite community speaks WIZO’s Tzabar group has reached an survivor ‘Rob was someone who always trod his Jewish achiever for the annual Jewish agreement with SAZF Chairman Shaul Ladany own, distinctive path.’ Achiever Award, in the categories of Avrom Krengel, to allow women to 06 Lifetime Achievement, Listed or Unlisted sing in a mixed choir at this year’s honoured in companies, Entrepreneurship, Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations. the Inter- FEATURE: Humanitarianism, Art, Science Sport and national Culture. The banquet takes place on CONFERENCE June 20; nominations close at the Jewish Sports VENUES AND end of April. 04 07 10 Hall of Fame 20 EVENTS 2 SA JEWISH REPORT Judaism 23 - 30 March 2012

Shabbat Times Parsha of the week Go home! What is a shul good for? I recall touring Europe in the ‘90s and being struck by the diminutive size of some of the greatest shuls ever: the shul of the celebrated Rem’uh in Krakow; the Maharal’s famous “Altneu” Shul in Prague. The greatest of rabbis presided over shuls that could hold maybe 45 people!

Jews track time by following the cycle of the the shul became an institution. moon. Indeed, Israel is compared to the This represented a shift of emphasis from moon, which is why on this Shabbos in anti- the home to the synagogue, from which we cipation of Pesach, shuls around the world Parshat Vayikra are yet to recover and which poses a real will take out an extra Torah from the Holy Rabbi Dovid Wineberg threat to our survival. Yiddishkeit needs to be Ark and read a section, titled “Hachodesh”. The Green and Sea Point Hebrew primarily experienced in the home. But why would we seek to be compared to Congregation The shul should serve as a refuelling spot the moon, which is smaller and weaker than in the landscape of Judaism, not the destina- the great luminary, the sun? Surely we as a brighter- it makes all life possible. But then it tion. In fact, I would put my job on the line people should strive for the brilliance of the sets, leaving behind a dark world; it is not and advise any sincere Jew who claims they sun’s rays? Why settle for second best? constant. The moon, however, in its soft nur- can’t afford a Jewish home, whether it’s King Solomon teaches: “Shema B’ni!” turing glow, represents a constant. kosher meat which costs too much or tefillin Listen, my son, to the admonishment of your Sure, it waxes and wanes, but is often vis- that is out of their budget, to drop their shul father- but never forget the “Torah” of your ible not only at night, but by day as well. The membership and use the money to build a March 23/29 Adar mother. A father’s input is crucial in a child’s sun-provider burns bright, but it is the nur- Jewish home. development but, says King Solomon, it is In two weeks’ time, Jewish families March 24/1 Nissan turing moon which serves as the symbol of the mother who causes one to “never forget” our eternity as a people. around the world will gather in their homes who they are. While the shul is the most visible symbol around seder tables to worship Hashem, just Parshat Vayikra A father provides, but a mother nurtures. of our Judaism, it is the home that ensures as our forefathers did on that fateful night in And it is this inner, less dramatic, nurturing our survival as a people. One of the unfortu- Egypt. It is there, in the nurturing glow of the 17:57 18:45 Johannesburg feature that keeps our Jewish identity eter- nate consequences of the demographic shifts home, that our people were born. And it is 18:10 19:25 Cape Town nal. in the early 20th century (due to wars, anti- there, in the home, that we will live on. Of the celestial beings, the sun burns Shabbat Shalom! 17:45 18:34 Durban Semitism, and modern technology) is that 18:05 18:53 Bloemfontein 18:00 18:56 Port Elizabeth 17:57 18:47 East London Shul rejuvenation: Rabbis think out of the box SHIRA DRUION

Traditional South African Jewry has always Kashrut Alert upheld a strong commitment to the values of old. However the last decade has seen a Only in PICK N PAY PESACH GUIDE NOW wave of assimilation bring traditional Cape Town ONLINE Judaism to its knees and rabbis and commit- could you tee members have had to put their heads have a The 5772/2012 Beth Din/Pick n Pay Pesach together to rejuvenate their communities . minyan Guide is now available online at www.uos.co.za, Rabbi Yossy Goldman with Rabbi according to a notification by the kashrut depart- (inset) of Sydenham Shul, says: Dovid ment of the Union of Orthodox Synagogues. Hard “We have really been blessed Wineberg copies of the guide should be available in Pick n with wonderful and loyal con- on the top Pay stores towards the end of this week. gregants, but as all good rabbis of Lion The kashrut department says retail supermar- will tell you, one can’t sit by Head every kets have begun stocking their Pesach shelves. idly and hope that the shul will Tuesday! “We have no control over how independent run itself. My wife and I, along- retailers stock their products and the shelves side our unbelievably capable introduced CTYS (Cape Town Youth the modern-day Jew.” themselves are not under supervision. Look at committee, are relentless in Shul) which runs weekly services to Rabbi Dovid Wineberg of the Sea Point, each item carefully. Often the retailer will pack our striving to expand. enrich the bat- and barmitzvah experience Marais Road Congregation in Cape Town, anything that has Hebrew writing and looks “We recently brought out Rabbi Akiva for our young congregants, not to mention has this to say: “The community has been kosher.” Tatz to launch our new learning programme, our kids programme which now boasts three exceptionally generous in their feedback and The kashrut department says it is available to The Shabbos Smorgasbord, which offers a Shabbat services which are led by enthusias- they have displayed a real desire to be answer Pesach-related queries. Call 010 214 choice of six Shabbat shiurim. The response, tic and trained young students. It is the place involved and committed to the different ini- 2600 (Johannesburg) or (021) 461-6310 (Cape has been fantastic! Friday Night Live is also to be on a Saturday morning!” tiatives which we have undertaken, surpass- Town) or e-mail [email protected] via a real road stopper, as hundreds of congre- Learning has become the real attraction ing our greatest expectations. www.uos.co.za gants and visitors pack the street to take of communities across the country and “We have initiated a Tuesday morning • Please note that Pick n Pay Killarney is no part in the exotic Shabbos street brochas.” Rabbi Justin Treger, young adults rabbi of minyan on Lion’s Head. We have two groups longer Yoshon. The dynamic Ohr Somayach Cape Town Sandton Shul has this advice: “The congre- who climb at 06:00 and 06:30 and our most community has recently appointed the ener- gants of today are in many ways more excit- successful one to date attracted over 60 par- getic and charismatic Rabbi Jared and Amy ed about learning and therein enriching ticipants on Rosh Chodesh Tevet and Bloch as the new rabbi and rebbetzen. Rabbi their lives, as opposed to the traditional Chanukah. Bloch tells of how privileged he feels to have attending of weekly services, which is a more “A former Israeli soldier carried up the been afforded this opportunity. passive experience. Torah and a baboon even attended the serv- south african “We have some very exciting new “We have therefore initiated an unbeliev- ice! We also have Shabbat Unplugged once a jewish report endeavours, like the BBM (Business able repertoire of learning programmes to month, and have all the tunes of the service Breakfast Meaning), given my local and stimulate a thirst for the acquisition of following a movie theme, like The Lion king international guest speakers. We have also Torah knowledge, which is so imperative to and Fiddler on the Roof.”

south african EDITOR Geoff Sifrin • COMMERCIAL MANAGER Sue Morris • Sub-Editor Paul Maree • Ed Co-ordinator Sharon Akum • Sports Editor Jack Milner • Books Editor Gwen Podbrey • Arts Editor Robyn Sassen • Cape Town correspondent Moira Schneider: 021-794-4206 • Pretoria correspondent Diane Wolfson: 082-707-9471 • ADVERTISING: Adi Lew: 083-407-8034, Britt Landsman: jewish report 082-292-9520, Manuela Bernstein: 082-951-3838, Marlene Bilewitz: 083-475-0288 • Classified Sales Charissa Newman • Distribution Manager Britt Landsman • Design and layout: Frankie Matthysen, Nicole Cook • Website: Ilan Ossendryver • Subscription enquiries: Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd. Tel: 0860-13-2652. BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Howard Feldman (Chairman), Issie Kirsh (Deputy Chairman), Marlene Bethlehem, Bertie Lubner, Benjy Porter, Herby Rosenberg, Howard Sackstein, Jason Valkin, Elton Bondi, Michael Sieff, Steven Krawitz and Denese Bloch. Advertisements and editorial copy from outside sources do not neccessarily reflect the views of the editors and staff. 23 - 30 March 2012 News SA JEWISH REPORT 3 Thousands march in the memory of Toulouse victims This week France reeled in horror at the cold-blooded killing of a Jewish man, his two young sons and a young Jewish girl.

JTA CORRESPONDENT “A little over 20 years ago, the entire polit- PARIS ical class, all families together with the excep- tion of the National Front, was capable of Presidential candidates suspended their elec- marching behind President François Mitter- tion campaigns to express sympathy and show rand to condemn the profanation of 34 their support for the French Jewish communi- Jewish graves at a cemetery in Carpentras. ty in Toulouse. And a leading French-Jewish “Today, we need an equivalent of that intellectual, Bernard-Henri Lévy, has called for demonstration, with Nicolas Sarkozy and a solidarity march, as was the case 20 years François Hollande in the lead, in grieving ago, to show the nation’s abhorrence against Toulouse, at the Place Capitole, this landmark this barbaric deed. where General De Gaulle came, on September Thousands silently demonstrated on 16, 1945, to preach the unity of the country to Monday evening in Paris to pay tribute to the the people of the maquis, FFI, FTP, and sur- four victims of a shooting attack at a Jewish vivors of the International Brigades of the school in southwestern France. Spanish Civil War. A man riding a motorbike opened fire that “A great meeting, all political forces attend- morning outside the Ozar Hatorah School in ing, to come to say, without nuance, all of Toulouse, where learners were waiting to France is being attacked and must take a unit- enter the building at the start of the school ed stand when its children, whatever they may day, before fleeing. Rabbi Jonathan Sandler, be and whatever the profile of the killer or his 30, and his three- and six-year-old sons, as reasons, are massacred like this. well as the eight-year-old daughter of the “There can be no worse blow to French school’s principal, were killed in the attack. culture, to the soul of our country, its history Members of Jewish organisations and and when all is said and done, to its grandeur antiracist movements, as well as politicians, than racism and, today, anti-Semitism.” gathered between Place de la République Pres Sarkozy said on Monday afternoon and Place de la Bastille for the march organ- that he would suspend his re-election cam- ised by the French Union of Jewish paign until at least later this week. “This is a Students. horrible attack that cannot go unpunished. The crowd made up of many youths, held Every possible means will be engaged to stop many French flags; most wore the tricolor this criminal. Our country had never known a scarf, the symbol of the French Republic. shooting inside a school. The whole republic is Marchers also displayed a banner reading: “In mobilised to face this tragedy.” France, Blacks, Jews and Arabs are killed”. French Interior Minister Claude Gueant Earlier Monday evening, French President said the gunman might have been filming the Nicolas Sarkozy, his socialist rival François attack with a camera attached to his chest. Hollande, and several other top French politi- French police were searching the Internet to cians attended a memorial ceremony at the see if a video of the attack had been posted Nazareth Synagogue in Paris. online, according to reports. Lévy writing in Haaretz on Tuesday, says French police also said they believed the French leaders must come together to say that attacks were carried out by French soldiers all of France is being attacked in the wake of suspected of being neo-Nazis, dismissed from the Toulouse killings. the military several years ago. (JTA) 4 SA JEWISH REPORT News 23 - 30 March 2012 Nominations now open for Community Briefs KASHRUT DEPARTMENT APPEALS FOR L’CHAIM FOR JWBS’S WINE VOLUNTEERS Jewish Achievers The Jewish Women’s Benevolent Society has A number of years ago, the kashrut department of announced that its popular wine will be back on the Union of Orthodox Synagogues, established a supermarket shelves as well as at the JWBS offices Each year, the SA Jewish Report hosts the Jewish Achievers’ laboratory for monitoring infestation in flour, fruits, from March 26. Gala Banquet to honour members of the Jewish community vegetables, grains, etc. It is presented under the new name of L’Chaim, In order to keep monitoring changes in the local JWBS adds: “We can assure our loyal customers who have excelled in business, entrepreneurship and situation, need volunteers to systematically assess that the recipe and taste is as enjoyable as in the the current circumstances. past. We have been supplying Kiddush wine for humanitarianism as well as several other categories. If you are willing to assist them, you may many years and have built up a strong customer contact Pinchas Goldberg via e-mail at pin- base. The money raised goes towards our funds to OWN CORRESPONDENT [email protected]. assist the needy in our community.”

One of the directors of the Jewish Report, LARGE-PRINT HAGGADOTH FOR KMM IS THERE FOR JEWS IN NEED Howard Sackstein, who is spearheading VISUALLY IMPAIRED the event, this week opens up the awards Forty years ago, the Union of Jewish Women to the general public for nominations. Brooklyn-based Jewish Heritage for the Blind, like realised how many people in the community were “The Business and Entrepreneurial other handicap-awareness organisations, offers free not able to shop for food or prepare a meal for awards are judged by a panel of independ- assistance to people with impaired vision, particularly themselves. ent business people, financial journalists, over text-based festivals like Pesach. Running solely Today Kosher Mobile Meals feeds 165 people stockbrokers and Absa Bank representa- on donations and dedicated to serving and promoting tives, who interview all of the candidates,” daily. the independence of individuals who suffer visual he adds in a media release. The event will “Unlike any other organisation,” says Shirley impairment, the organisation ships, without cost, spe- Ancer, UJW’s vice chairman, “come rain or shine, again be hosted at the Maroela Room, 2010’s Art, Science, Sports and Culture Jewish Sandton Sun. This year’s date is June 20. cially designed large-print Haggadoth, as well as other strikes or riots, Christmas or public holidays, our Achievers Award winner, Dr Ali Bacher, hand- products, anywhere in the world: services@jhbinter- volunteers are there. Over 40 volunteers tirelessly Previous winners of Jewish Achiever ing the award to artist William Kentridge awards include Bidvest’s Brian Joffe, national.org or www.jhbinternational.org. assist every single day.”- Robyn Sassen acknowledged in last year’s event. (PHOTO- Discovery’s Adrian Gore, Pick n Pay’s GRAPH BY ILAN OSSENDRYVER) Raymond Ackerman, as well as Gill USING GREY MATTER TO GENERATE UJW: YOUNG FACES ARE AN Marcus, governor of the Reserve Bank, Company Award; the Absa Unlisted Company FUNDS ENCOURAGING SIGN entrepreneurs Abe and Solly Krok, palaeontol- Award; Entrepreneur Award; The Community ogist Philip Tobias, cricket great Ali Bacher Service Award; The Arts Science, Sports & Next week, two quiz nights, in the style of London At the UJW’s recent national executive meeting held and creative icons of the community, includ- Culture Award; The Chivas Humanitarian pub quizzes popularised in the 1970s, feature on in Port Elizabeth, it was most encouraging to see so ing William Kentridge, Pieter-Dirk Uys, and Award in Honour of Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris – Johannesburg’s Jewish fundraiser calendar. many young women from all over the country in lead- Johnny Clegg, among others. the recipient of this award could come from On March 26 Kevin Bonner is quizmaster for the ership positions. The awards, over the years, have also hon- either the Jewish or non-Jewish community. first of a regular quiz night at Metzuyan, Rosebank. The deliberations were extremely constructive oured former President Nelson Mandela and Nominations should include: The nominee’s March 29 sees quizmaster Larry Benjamin at a with new strategies emerging to take the Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu for their name and contact details; the award for which fundraiser for SAUJS to assist students with fees, at UJW forward well into the future, and the tangible contributions to South Africa. the nominee is nominated; a short motivation Colony Arms, Craighall. He says the popularity of passion and unswerving commitment of all One can nominate in the following cate- for the nomination. Please send nominations to these evenings is becoming enthusiastically inter- present augurs well for the future of the organisa- gories: The Helen Suzman Lifetime [email protected], by the generational. Call 082-888-5355. – Robyn Sassen. Achievement Award; the Absa Listed end of April 2012. tion.

On the February 21, 2012, the IUA-UCF held their annual campaign launch gala dinner. It was a very successful and spectacular event held at the Scarlet Ribbon and was attended by Gauteng’s most prominent members of the Jewish community.

most prestigious award was made to ever more pressing and critical. Brett and Mark Levy. This award is The beneficiaries of the UCF are made every year to patrons of the the CSO, South African Jewish Board of community who are an inspiration of Deputies and the South African Union generosity and big-heartedness. The of Jewish Students. The IUA supports award presentation was made by the SAZF and Israel Centre in Gauteng Stephen Koseff and the previous recip- as well projects in Israel, including ients of the award, Natie Kirsh and Ivan Holocaust survivors, victims of terror, Saltzman. children at risk and many more who The goals of the IUA-UCF are pri- help to ensure that we have a strong marily to secure and nurture the On the February 21, 2012, the IUA-UCF held their future of the Jewish community here and in annual campaign launch gala dinner. It was a very Israel. This is vital in saving Jewish life and UCF, Zev Krengel from the SABJD and successful and spectacular event held at the lives. These goals are achieved through Israeli ambassador Dov Segev-Steinberg, Scarlet Ribbon and was attended by Gauteng’s fund-raising, creating awareness and edu- were present at the meeting. most prominent members of the Jewish commu- cating the local Jewish community. A joint statement issued on behalf of nity. Avrom Krengel Gauteng co-chairman of the two ministers read: The evening commenced with a musical per- the IUA-UCF, appealed to the guests to be “The meeting focused on strengthen- formance of Israeli music, with traditional African generous and understanding in making ing the cultural relations between Israel musical instruments. their donation this year, as the needs are and South Africa. The distinguished guest speakers were “The Israeli minister invited Minister Minister Limor Livnat, Israel’s minister for Culture Mashatile to visit Israel during this coming and Sport and Professor Irwin Cotler, former May in order to discuss ways to promote Minister of Justice and Attorney General of and secure Jewish homeland. cultural ties and the signing of a cultural agree- Canada. A meeting facilitated by the South African ment between the two countries. Minister Livnat gave an insightful and astute Jewish community was recently held - on “Minister Mashatile welcomed the invitation report on the current situation in Israel, the situa- February 22 - in Cape Town, between South and indicated that he will be pleased if Minister tion in Syria, the Arab Spring and the threat of Iran. African Minister of Arts and Culture, Paul Livnat can come back to South Africa on an offi- Co-chairman Gerald Leissner made a presenta- Mashatile and Israeli Minister of Sport and Culture cial visit.” tion to the Minister. Professor Cotler addressed Limor Livnat. After many years, of no Israeli minister being the issue of the deligitimisation of Israel and solu- Minister Limor Livnat was invited to South invited in their official capacity to South Africa, we tions of what can be done to counteract it. Africa by the IUA-UCF Gauteng. Avrom Krengel look forward to the start of a new chapter in The annual presentation of the IUA-UCF’s and Naomi Hadar, representing the, SAZF and IUA- Israel-South Africa relations.

Don’t be a bystander; stand by us. Make a difference today and help us secure our future. 23 - 30 March 2012 News SA JEWISH REPORT 5

News in brief AIPAC PRAISES SWIFT ON IRAN COMPLIANCE WASHINGTON - The American Israel Public Affairs Committee has praised the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication's compliance with sanctions on Iranian banks. SWIFT, which serves as the final entry point for electronic transactions before entering the global financial system, said on March 15 that it had no choice but to abide by European Union sanctions on designated Iranian financial institutions. “This welcome step must now be supplemented by additional measures to press the regime to change course," AIPAC said in one of its rare statements. In addition, AIPAC urged Congress to act on proposed legislation that would close loopholes in existing sanctions laws and called on the administration to strongly implement sanctions against the Central Bank of Iran. (JTA)

Alliance, Paris: www1.alliancefr.com JEWISH COMMUNITY IN SHOCK THE JEWISH WORLD The Jewish community is in shock after the murder of three people. including two children in seven seconds at a Jewish school in Toulouse on March 19.

Jewish Telegraph, Manchester: The Algemeiner, New York: www.jewishtelegraph.com www.algemeiner.com GOLDMAN SACHS ON EMPLOYEE ‘RICH’ PARENTS DON’T HELP KD WHO BASHED FIRM IN NY TIMES King David Schools’ Chairman Joshua Rowe, has Goldman Sachs push back against a NY Times op-ed slammed wealthy parents who refuse to make vol- by a former employee who said he quit because the untary contributions to the school. culture of the bank had become toxic.

Haaretz, Israel: Jewish Telegraphic Agency: www.haaretz.com www.jta.org ISRAELI OFFICIAL: IRANIAN MILI- DESPITE PUBLISHER’S LIQUIDATION, TARY EXPERTS OPERATING IN GAZA, BALTIMORE JEWISH TIMES VOWS TO SINAI PRESS ON Iran pressured Islamic Jihad and popular resist- The 93-year-old Baltimore Jewish Times which ance groups in Gaza to continue firing rockets into says it has never missed an issue, could close by Israel despite ceasefire. the end of the week.

European Jewish Press: Lubavitch News Service: www.ejp.org www.chabad.org DUTCH JEWISH WEEKLY UNDERGOES MOROCCO KNIGHTS NEW YORK EXTREME MAKEOVER RABBI The 141-year-old Dutch Jewish Weekly has under- Morocco’s King Mohammed VI awarded a New gone a complete redesign, in an attempt to capture York City rabbi with the prestigious Knight of the a younger audience. Order of the Throne. 6 SA JEWISH REPORT Opinion 23 - 30 March 2012

south african jewish report Sad farewell to a very dear friend The Toulouse From personal experience, I understand perhaps better than most why Jews are meant attack: what can to keep themselves as much as possible apart from the rest of humanity. It is not because we “dislike the goyim” and look down on them, but rather the opposite. we do here? It is because we feel a natural attraction The older they get, most people At the time of the Jewish Report going to print, the to the other nations, as fellow beings rarely think, let alone speak, about their gunman who attacked the Jewish school Ozar created B’tzelem Elokim, that we need schooldays. What was so real and HaTorah in Toulouse, France on Monday and mur- to keep our distance, lest we be dis- intense at the time, becomes less and dered teacher Yonatan Sandler, his two young sons tracted from carrying out our particular less relevant in negotiating the newer, Aryeh and Gavriel, and little girl Miriam Montenago, mission. The more we mix at a social BARBARIC YAWP more prolonged challenges of adult- daughter of the school’s principal, had not yet been level with non-Jews, the more we will David Saks hood. identified, nor any group to which he might belong. be influenced by their behaviour and Rob was not like that. For him, the All signs, however, indicated that this was a hate modes of thinking, to the inevitable We did so yesterday, after which I schooldays we shared were perpetually crime, not an ordinary criminal act. And that it was detriment of living lives wholehearted- dropped him back at his flat and went fresh. He would frequently speak of linked to recent attacks in the same area on soldiers of ly devoted to what the Torah demands. home. A couple of hours later, I was incidents that had taken place over 30 North African and Caribbean origin. Police said the I fully recognise the impossibility of contacted by a paramedic who had got years previously as if they had occurred .45 calibre gun fired at the school was the same cali- living in both camps. That being my number through his mobile. Rob quite recently. Rob never shone as a bre used to kill the soldiers, as was the scooter on stressed, I feel the need at this time to had been hit by a car, and was in a bad scholar, but he had a formidable memo- which the assailant rode. express a measure of regret over the way. Did I know how to get hold of his ry. As for me, much of the desolation I President Nicolas Sarkozy has come out very absence in our tradition of ways to for- next of kin? now feel comes from having lost a vital strongly on this issue and has vowed that the police mally grieve when gentiles to whom we I could not help, though I made sev- link with those formative years. would leave no stone unturned to bring the culprit to might have been close pass on. No eral fruitless calls later that night. Rob was someone who always trod book. Kaddish can be said The following day, a his own, distinctive path. For this, he While French Jews - Europe’s largest Jewish com- when this happens, nor The ‘wuss’ and the family member called paid a high price since, for all his talents munity, estimated at some 700 000 - can be classified do any other of our ‘fighter’ became firm to tell me that Rob had and likeability, he was unable to find an as just another piece in that country’s mosaic of eth- complex laws of died that night in hos- enduring place for himself in a society nic minorities, the fact that they are being targeted is mourning apply. The friends. pital. that continually demands compromises about more than France’s simmering ethnic tensions. loss we feel is allowed In retrospect, there of its members. It happens in the context of a dramatic resurgence no formal channel of expression. was a distinctly valedictory feel about He felt keenly that he had under- of anti-Semitism in Europe and the world. Using anti- The first time I encountered Robert our last meeting. We felt more comfort- achieved in his life. During our last Zionism and the call for boycotts, divestment and Jackson, as a seven-year-old in the able with one another, chatting more meeting, he spoke wistfully of his fail- sanctions as a cover for crude Jew-hatred, its propo- Sandown Primary School playground, I easily than had, in truth, been the case ure to ever win the tennis champi- nents have in recent years focused their attentions on hit him in the teeth and made him in more recent times when we had onship at school, even when he was the both Israel and Jewish institutions worldwide. howl. This was ironic in that during our begun to struggle at last to find com- obvious favourite. A more recent disap- Rabid antipathy to Jews which pervades the Arab respective school careers I was a first- mon ground. pointment was how the considerable and Muslim world, has infiltrated Europe and reignit- class wuss whereas Rob had a reputa- On several occasions, Rob told me investment he had put into training a ed expressions of anti-Semitism in mainstream tion as something of a fighter. how much he was enjoying being with talented young player from the Czech media and general society, where it has long existed The second irony was that in due me - he had never put it that way before Republic had come to nothing. and only took a temporary break in public after the course we established a firm friendship - and for once it was he who dispensed But Robert was not a failure - far Holocaust. that would endure for more than three some advice about how to conduct my from it. I will always remember him as As the great Zionist visionary Ze’ev Jabotinsky decades - right up until last Sunday life. someone who was always true to him- warned in a 1939 article, on the eve of the Second afternoon, in fact. The next time we self, who never ceased World War, anti-Semitism is a beast which never dies, Over the years, Rob and I spent our were to meet would be There was a distinctly to yearn for and dream but merely naps intermittently. And each time it time together playing table tennis, soc- at my home. At long valedictory feel about about attaining some- awakens, its appetite is increasingly voracious. cer and, later, pool in a nearby pub, last, Rob could actually thing more than the History has shown repeatedly how verbal expres- watching videos or sport and devising get there himself, since our last meeting. safe, materialistic lives sions of hatred for an ethnic or religious group can games and ratings systems for tennis he had finally obtained everyone around him lead ultimately to actual violence. The Holocaust was players. his driver’s licence and, shortly after were settling for. made possible by years of dehumanisation of Jews in We also formed a music group of that, his own car. It is of some comfort As a friend, he was unfailingly loyal, European society before it. sorts - called The Holy Godfathers - that Rob, in his mid-forties, broke and as a human being generous, sensi- We saw a similar phenomenon in South Africa, with me on piano and Rob bawling his through what had been a demoralising tive and totally without malice. I am where the many years of dehumanisation of black own highly distinctive lyrics into a tape psychological barrier to pass his driver’s grateful and much moved that people - and their being reduced to simple labour recorder. Towards the end, though, we test and gain that crucial measure of Hakadosh Baruch Hu, in His infinite units for white industry, business and society - simply met every few weeks at a pub independence that comes with being kindness, allowed me a chance to say allowed their violent submission by the white regime near his Blairgowrie flat and talked. mobile. goodbye. during apartheid to be tolerated and even seen as “natural and necessary” by whites. European governments, including the European Commission, the Vatican, Italy, Poland, Belgium, the SAJBD expresses Netherlands and France itself, among others, have condemned the Toulouse school attack. German shock and anger over Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle said: “Anti- Semitism and violence against Jewish institutions or people of Jewish faith have no place in Europe and France killings must be rigorously punished.” But clearly, the growing hatred for Jews becoming The SA Jewish Board of Deputies has so widespread in Europe, carries the huge risk of it sooner or later becoming violent. Regrettably, the expressed its shock and anger at the Toulouse events might illustrate exactly that danger. What can we do here in South Africa, in our cor- killings of Jews in France. ner of the world at the bottom of Africa? We cannot greatly influence what happens in Europe, but we can In a media release it said: “The South African Jewish community is try to exorcise racist hatred from our own society, par- deeply shocked by the cold-blooded killing of a rabbi, his two young ticularly given our history. sons and a third young child in a shooting outside a Jewish school Anti-black racist sentiments from whites still in Toulouse, France, on Monday. mired in the apartheid mindset are not only unac- “Mary Kluk, national chairman of the SA Jewish Board of ceptable, but inherently dangerous. So are anti-white Deputies, has extended the South African Jewish community’s statements from the likes of Julius Malema. Words, heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims and to the Jewish as the single units of rhetoric, are enormously volatile community of France. weapons and can ignite conflagrations to which there “This tragedy has demonstrated how frighteningly vulnerable is no reasonable limit. innocent people can be when pitiless killers driven by irrational The recent nationalistic outbursts of Sarkozy hatred, target them for attack. We commend the French govern- against immigrants in his country, may not have been ment for the seriousness with which they are responding to this intended to end in bloodshed, but they certainly car- atrocity and hope that the perpetrator will soon be brought to jus- ried its seeds. Looking at the world today, ethnic ten- tice,” she said. sions are volatile and, indeed, actively incendiary in so Kluk further commented that while this had yet to be con- many regions - from the Middle East to Europe and firmed, all indications pointed to this having been a racially moti- Miriam Monsonego, the daughter of Ozar Hatorah Africa - that it is incumbent upon leaders to do what- vated hate crime. School headmaster Rabbi Yaacov Monsonego, was ever they can to calm, rather than inflame, these Previous victims of the same killer are believed to be three men killed in the shooting attack at the school in Toulouse, hatreds. of North African and one of West Indian origin. France. (Flash90/JTA) 23 - 30 March 2012 Letters SA JEWISH REPORT 7

‘Religion is the problem, not the SAJBD connived with Walters behind shul’s back solution’ In my capacity as an attorney, I represented the Baal Shem Tov Shul (in Orange I would like to know who owns the Jewish Grove) throughout its zoning hearings and would like to comment on last week’s Report and who nominates the members article in the SAJR, ““The fight for the closure of the Baal Shem Tov Shul is not to the Board. over”. Religion is the problem, not the solu- The article contains several inaccuracies and was published without first call- tion. Religions produce fanatics and ing for comment from the shul. fanatics cannot think clearly. Religion is 1. On no account did Rabbi (Gavin) Michal admit that he did not have the nec- blind fate: nothing to do with reason, logic essary permits. On the contrary, I appeared at the first tribunal and submitted or evidence. that the shul had received an informal consent from the former mayor of Religious fanatics belong in the Middle Johannesburg, Mr Neppe. Ages. There is never a true, open public 2. At the outbreak of this matter, Tiaan Ehlers, head of town planning at the debate about religion. Because the reli- City of Johannesburg, called upon our town planner to attend a “without preju- gious people and establishments are not dice” meeting in his office with the complainant, Councillor Christine Walters. I interested. Dissenting voices like mine, was denied a right of audience at the meeting, its intention having been to hold have been silenced. a “round table” meeting in order to gain an understanding of the dispute. I attended the Yom Hashoah memorials To my shock, I discovered that although I had been refused a right of audi- several times, but I have never heard any ence, the chairman of the Orange Grove Residents Association, Roger Chadwick, speaker say that there was no G-d at Councillor Walters and her ally, Marian Lasersohn, were all in attendance. Auschwitz. The meeting was, by design, more of an ambush than a settlement discus- The Jewish mentality is sickly sion. At such meeting utterances were made to the effect that there had been “a obsessed with success. If you are not horrific proliferation of synagogues” and steps would be taken to clamp down on rich, you are nobody. We always focus on the Nobel Prizes and the achievers of the an alleged 22 illegal synagogues. year, but conveniently forget about Rabbi Michal, in response, did no more than his civic and religious duty by Selwyn Segal residents and too many reporting this to the Jewish Board of Deputies. Why the Board not only did noth- "nebechlech" (pitiful) individuals in our ing, but seemingly aligned itself with Walters by negotiating with her behind the midst. We may have an inbreeding prob- shul’s back, remains a complete mystery. lem. 3. No appeal has been launched by Walters, as reported. There is no merit in If being Jewish means being religious, her allegation that she was not notified of the hearing. Furthermore, there is no I am out of it. No religious Jew will repre- right of appeal against the decision of an appeal tribunal. sent me. 4. As for the alleged failure to comply with building bylaws, this is the furthest Up to a few years ago, I actively partic- thing from the truth. The shul has a favourable report from an independent archi- ipated in community life. Now I am totally tect. In any event, building bylaws have absolutely no bearing upon the determi- disappointed with Judaism and with the nation of zoning rights. community. I have lost a son to religion. Just another attempt to muddy the waters! Also: The community owns a number of properties and investments. I would like a Gerald Nochumsohn full disclosure to the community of who Johannesburg benefits from them. We do not dispute our letter writer’s bona fides, but are only interested in factu- Yossi Bogacz al reporting. Many of the issues he raises as being incorrect, are in dispute and Johannesburg cannot at this stage be deemed to be “factually incorrect”. We welcome this letter as putting forward the shul’s case, but at present that is merely what it is: Jewish Report focuses too much on the shul’s case. It may be true that some of Councillor Walters’ actions are “with- Johannesburg out merit”, but that is not for us to decide. We leave the sideswipe at the SAJBD’s so-called inaction, for them to react to. - Editor May I suggest that the name be changed to the Johannesburg Jewish Report, Community Voices because that would more fairly encapsu- late its target market and exclusivity. To us out-of-towners, it seems that the ‘Can one still afford to stock up for Pesach?’ paper presumes that South African means Johannesburg. I cannot give a better example than your heading in the Report of March 9: SA Jewish dayschools unite for friendship. Johannesburg is not South Africa; it is only part of South Africa. Jewish day schools in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban and Umhlanga are equally friendly and equally South African as the Johannesburg-only schools it mentioned.

Gwynne Robins Claremont Yes, we can. Let’s Yes, we can. Just keep The question posed Cape Town simplify the meal and it simple and local. by hundreds of peo- amplify the meaning. Pesach food is costlier ple for whom "stock- We must not become because of the extra ing up" is foreign, is: Correction slaves to the kitchen hashkocha required. "Can we afford and the supermarket The savvy kosher con- Pesach altogether?” but focus on how for- sumer avoids exorbi- These people walk Dr Levin lives in Benoni, not in Pretoria tunate we South tant products, which shopping aisles, des- Africans are to have makes manufacturers perately seeking bare A letter by Dr Billy Levin was published last help and the freedom wrongly assume that essentials, conscious week in Jewish Report. We wrongly stated to celebrate. demand is less, not of how carefree the that he lives in Pretoria. He has been a NATALIE that their price is affluent in our midst Benoni resident for the past 66 years. We LIKNAITZKY wrong. load their trolleys. regret the error. DEVORAH NATES. ALICE FRIEDMAN 8 SA JEWISH REPORT Tapestry 23 - 30 March 2012

Good reads Reviewed by Gwen Podbrey Imaginative brilliance more than make up for flaws Care of Wooden Floors by Will Wiles (Harper Press, R262)

REVIEWED BY GWEN PODBREY

Occupying someone else’s private living space is always an excursion into their experience of themselves in the world - and, by default, into one’s own experience of it too. And the truths which emerge from the journey can change both parties forever. This novel is set in an unnamed Eastern European city where the narrator (also unnamed) - a London bachelor - his vomit reflexes. Having left the piano arrives to look after the flat of his friend (which he was instructed not to touch) Oskar, a German-born minimalist com- open, and failed to let the cats out, he dis- poser whose most famous work is covers that one of them has crawled onto A matter of poise: “Variations on Tram Timetables”. the keyboard, where the heavy instrument Sandra Rosenberg The reason for the flatsit is logical lid has fallen on it and killed it. with student Michelle enough: Oskar has gone to Los Angeles for Disposing of a dead cat in a strange Cloete at the barre. a few weeks to finalise his divorce from his apartment, in a strange city, the Londoner (PHOTOGRAPH BY ILAN American wife. What is inexplicable, how- finds, is no easy task. And manoeuvring OSSENDRYVER) ever, is that he has prevailed on this partic- its corpse past the building caretaker-cum- ular friend - whom he knows from their cleaner - a sour, belligerent harridan who shared university digs days to be a barfly, speaks no English - is harder still. a slob, a philistine who considers all classi- But there is worse to come. Having cal music no more than “high-quality aural tried - with frightful results - to undo the Tapping into the rich wallpaper” and a man constitutionally damage to the floorboards using soap, incapable of any kind of ordered living - to then detergents, then pumice and, finally, care for his impossibly pristine home. a mixture of oxalic acid crystals and vine- reserve of SA dancing talent The apartment’s intimidating sterility gar, the panicking Londoner decides to comes as no surprise. Oskar - pathologi- prise off the floorboards, flip them over cally tidy, pedantic, rigidly controlled and and reset them with the (hopefully) pris- Seventy-three-year-old Sandra Rosenberg can still effortlessly as sterile in his environment as in his tine undersides on top. The intrusion of interactions with others - has created an the caretaker, however, quickly puts paid “shoulder her leg”, an exercise in which the dancer raises her Elysian dream home. to this plan - and pushes the situation into For the chaotic Londoner, however, it the realms of unimagined horror. leg to shoulder height. Physical dexterity is not the only skill of is a minefield of potential hazards, includ- Like all good satires, the novel has a this doyenne of tap dancing in South Africa. ing immaculate designer furniture, spot- tragic subtext. The collision of two men’s less white walls and bedlinen, rigidly worlds - seemingly irreconcilable, yet organised systems for cupboards, books strangely similar in their alienation and ROBYN SASSEN it aims to develop dance teaching. Close to and groceries, and two cats. despair - creates an interface which gener- 80, mostly Johannesburg teachers, are asso- Most daunting of all, though, are the ates many startling revelations. AT THE age of six, she had her first lesson; ciated with DanceCor. magnificent, unimaginably expensive and Oskar, it turns out, is neither as 10 years later she took her tap-dancing With her daughter, Megan, also an hypersensitive French oak floorboards, implacable nor as impenetrable as he teaching exam. She’d lost her father as a acclaimed tap dancer/choreographer, requiring infinite care and caution in order appears. The men do not know each other nine-year-old and moved to Durban to live Rosenberg is affiliated to a network of out- to maintain their unique gleam and tex- well, but their secret envy of each other’s with an uncle and aunt after the remarriage reach training, embracing not only previous- ture. lives provides a portal for them to explore of her mother. ly disadvantaged dancers, but also senior The apartment’s antiseptic aura is the road not taken. Their relationship with By 10, she was earning her living teach- beginners. sharply contrasted by the industrial city their respective living spaces, and with ing - dance lessons were by then central to Having recently changed the name of her beyond it, filled with grey apartment each other, is both tremulous and treach- her existence; a luxury she couldn’t other- 1999-established tap school, the only one in blocks, hideous monuments which could erous. wise afford. Her first teaching studio was in South Africa, from Tap Talk Rhythm only have been “gifts from the Soviet Far more than coping with wine spills Doornside: “Each Saturday from 04:30, I Company to Foot Musicians, Rosenberg is Union”, filthy canals, derelict factories and and the other thousand natural shocks would travel on the milk train with the mine writing a tap handbook. grim-faced citizens. that expensive blonde wooden floors are workers to get there.” It includes an overview of South African The friend soon starts finding notes, heir to, this is a novel about the pursuit of At 17, Rosenberg returned to Johan- tap terminology; reflections on how eight left in strategic places for him by Oskar, perfection, privacy and inviolability – nesburg after the death of her uncle. She parts of the foot are used for tap; descrip- reminding him at every turn to be careful, none of which exist. It is also about identi- started dancing with Paddy Chellin, gaining tions of the six knee movements; tips, like to clean up after himself and - above all - ty, boundaries and entropy. board and lodging in return for lessons she the fact that turning the screws on a tap to take especial care of the floor. Wiles’ writing can be problematic: on gave. She married at 19. shoe can alter its sound; and the South Of course, within a few hours, the first the one hand, there is electrifying imagery “We lived initially in the Stephanie Hotel African history of tap. disaster strikes. The floors, it turns out, and deeply moving insights: “We make our in Berea. I set up my studio in Yeoville, until She speaks of how tap, a hybrid of are super-absorbent, and when a few rooms and then our rooms make us,” we were able to afford to move to Cyrildene, African rhythm and European footwork, was drops of red wine are spilt on them, the Oskar sadly tells his friend. where we’ve been 47 years. My studio was only named as such in 1903. “It was prac- effects are instant, dramatic - and irre- On the other hand, there are built on the property in 1971.” tised in South Africa from mid-1920, com- versible. grotesquely contrived sentences like: She taught many of today’s headlining ing through Irish clog dance; it’s a sibling to “The floorboards… lay there, welcom- “Above it all, my angle-poise shone cyclop- dancers and choreographers: Shelley township genres marabi and mbaqanga.” ing the red deeper and deeper into their ically like the fire brigade floodlights at a Meskin, Vicky Friedman, Esther Nasser... Like other art forms, tap in apartheid substance, like self-conscious, passive- midnight motorway catastrophe” and “This little suburban studio has seen much. South Africa was squeezed. According to aggressive martyrs. If they had been lino, smart-ass asides like: “Who cheesed her Pride isn’t the word to describe how I feel anthropologist David Coplan: “With inner- or even sealed wood, this would never move?” when I see former pupils being wonderful. city clubs off limits, old location halls torn have happened. But Oskar had to have Wiles’ novel often risks being hijacked It’s nachas.” down, and the ‘matchbox’ township of everything just so. He had to have this one by his smarmy, self-delighting cleverness Rosenberg made dance controversy in Soweto almost without recreational facili- kind of wood… Wasn’t this calamity and his inability to resist milking a 1994. She was “expelled from the SA Dance ties, Johannesburg’s once-proud black inevitable, given enough time? Didn’t he metaphor for all it is worth. Teachers Association; I wanted to develop bandsmen were confined to Dorkay House, realise that? His precious, delicate floor- Yet this reviewer found herself suc- outreach. I didn’t care if it was for black or the Bantu Men’s Social Centre,” in Eloff boards had their fate written into their cumbing steadily to his imaginative bril- white dancers, but felt it was necessary. Street, from 1960. It was a venue of choice absorbent grain.” liance, compulsively turning the pages and, “Meetings were held in my home by for not only black burlesquers, but also peo- This initial mishap quickly triggers a finally, conceding wholehearted defeat. young teachers keen to sabotage SADTA. ple like the late Bertha Egnos, producer of chain of further calamities: the Londoner, Part farce, part thriller, part existential This is where DanceCor, a co-operative of Ipi Ntombi. returning from a bender to a nightclub, is polemic, the novel is full of surprises, inge- dance teachers, was born.” Rosenberg’s classes filled the gap: “Foot too drunk to control either his bladder or nuity – and unforgettable revelations. Specialising in tap, hip-hop and modern, Musicians move their audiences,” she adds. 16 - 23 March 2012 SA JEWISH REPORT 9 10 SA JEWISH REPORT Community Columns 23 - 30 March 2012

A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies Toulouse tragedy: Wake-up call for world Jewry The Jewish world has been from the Toulouse tragedy rocked by an unknown gun- must be to increase our own man’s attack on a Jewish levels of vigilance when it school in Toulouse, France. A comes to safeguarding our rabbi, his two young sons and a communal institutions. third Jewish child, an eight It was precisely to that end year-old girl, were cold-blood- that the SAJBD took the lead edly murdered in what was the in the early 1990s in establish- worst attack on a school the ing the Community Security country had known. Organisation - CSO - a body Under any circumstances, that quickly established itself the deliberate killing of a as a crucial component of our Jewish father and three young communal infrastructure. Jewish children is something The CSO, with its well- Jews everywhere will mourn. trained professional staff and What makes these murders Above Board many dedicated volunteers, even more harrowing is the Mary Kluk has done us proud over the strong presumption that the National Chairman years and we are fortunate victims were not randomly indeed to have such an organ- chosen but were deliberately singled out isation of this calibre working ceaselessly to because they were Jewish. protect Jewish life and the Jewish way of At the time of writing, the killer is still at life. large, so we cannot say for sure what moti- That being said, the role of those of us vated him. However, the indications are that not directly involved with it, cannot be pas- he was also responsible for the murder a few sive. On the contrary, we need to assist the days earlier of four soldiers, of whom three CSO in every way that we can, as individuals were of North African descent and one of and at the institutional level. West Indian origin. This we can do through feeding through This strengthens the presumption that vital information to the CSO, co-operating the attack should be regarded as a hate crime with its operational requirements, ensuring aimed specifically at the Jewish community. that it is properly funded and heeding its Last year, the world was shocked by an expert advice when it comes to securing appalling massacre that took place in Jewish installations and public functions. Norway. The killer in that case was a far- In general, we need to maintain a con- rightwing fanatic driven by ideologies and stant level of vigilance, always being on the obsessions strong enough to motivate him look-out for possible attacks and feeding to deliberately murder scores of his own peo- through information on suspicious activity ple. to the CSO. We should also take care not to The Toulouse killings may well fall into appear vulnerable. the same grim category. Only recently, As has been proven on many occasions, moreover, two men were arrested in France visible security acts as a real deterrent to for planning to bomb a synagogue in Milan. potential attackers. None of this is about Whatever happens to Jews in Europe becoming fearful or paranoid. Rather, it is could just as easily happen to Jewish com- about recognising the reality of the potential munities elsewhere in the world. For our dangers that face us and adopting a realistic own community, the lesson we must take approach towards meeting those challenges. Yom Ha’atzmaut singing: An agreement is reached WIZO’s Tzabar group has reached an agreement with SAZF Chairman Avrom Krengel, to allow women to sing in a mixed choir at this year’s Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations.

ALISON GOLDBERG spectacular as possible. “In recent years, the SAZF has organ- The condition was that the group with- ised events that are able to be attended draw its petition against the SAZF pro- by all sections of our community includ- gramming, which has not allowed ing the growing religious community of women to sing on stage over the past Johannesburg. This decision was made three years, reversing a six decade old without any rabbinical interference or tradition where women sang and pressure and was done solely out of danced. respect and appreciation for the dedica- Krengel said in a media release: “In tion and commitment shown by the reli- response to various requests, the SAZF gious Zionist community of South Africa has agreed on a programme that will towards Israel and Zionism.” ensure that this year’s celebrations Naomi Dinur, a member of Tzabar, says include greater participation by women the bible shows inclusion, for example: while still being respectful of our reli- Song of songs 8,13 - “she who dwells in the gious community.” gardens (male) companions listen to your Krengel said that the Yom voice, let me hear it”, was the norm then. Ha’atzmaut celebrations hosted by the “The rabbinic decree not allowing SAZF in Johannesburg were the largest men to hear a woman singing, pro- communal events of SA Jewry and claimed in 1000, was based incorrectly attract over 5 000 participants every on the Talmud’s Brachot 24, which main- year. tained that men could not concentrate “The SAZF goes to great lengths to when praying the Shema if they heard a make these celebrations as inclusive and woman’s voice,” according to Dinur. CONFERENCES VENUES & EVENTS SA JEWISH REPORT - 16 - 23 March 2012 11 Conferences, venues & events A feature compiled by Marlene Bilewitz. Contact: (011) 023 8160, Cell: 083-475-0288 or e-mail [email protected] The best-kept venue secret in Johannesburg

Xtreme Ten Pin Bowling was the first The '60s diner theme creates an incredi- Xtreme Ten Pin Bowling theme Ten Pin Bowling Centre in the ble ambiance. world. We took bowling out of the base- There’s top-notch security with free park- 280 Corlett Drive ments and alleys into the main stage of ing. All in all, it’s a fantastic venue – the best Midways Mall entertainment for the whole spectrum of kept secret in Johannesburg! Bramley Gardens the market. Visit www.xtremebowling.co.za for more Phone: (011) 887-2095/6 The venue caters for every kind of func- information. E-mail: [email protected] tion imaginable, from product launches and team building to barmitzvahs and kiddies’ birthday parties, 21sts, to movie shoots and music video backdrops. Outside catering is arranged to suit all tastes and glat kosher, if required. There’s a fully serviced bar with barmen and waiters, with the finest whiskies and draught beers in stock. To top it there’s a great sound system with themed music handpicked by our resident DJ, “Hammerhead", DStv channels play throughout. The Greenside - centrally situated kosher super venue

MARLENE BILEWITZ product launches. The venue can accommodate from Dorann Ben-David is the general manager and brunches to lunches, teas to cocktails, dinners proud owner of “The Greenside”, an extreme- to dances - no event is too small or too large. ly attractive, conveniently situated venue in The Greenside can accommodate up to the Johannesburg suburb of Greenside, adja- 600 people banquet style, 800 theatre cent to the shul. style for conferences and can be made This venue can cater to all kinds and sizes more intimate for smaller affairs. It is an of functions and events. adaptable, elegant shell which lends itself Dorann recalls how four years ago, she comfortably to change for theme parties, was at a bingo evening in the once function with different colour decorations. There is hall of the shul and as she sat there her imag- safe parking with good resident security. ination began to run riot. • For enquiries and a tour of the She went home and told her husband venue, contact Dorann or Johan on that she just “had to have this place - the hall (011) 880-5720, 083-691-9032 or e-mail was just so majestic”. [email protected]. See our website: According to the foundation stone, it was www.thegreenside.co.za built in 1946, designed by Gliksman, Dirksen and Amson architects and is replete with high ceilings, fantastic acoustics and large balconies. “The Greenside is run completely independently of the synagogue, but does, however, have one proviso: that all functions be kosher as all catering is under the auspices of the Beth Din. “There is a resident kosher caterer who is available for all types of affairs such as weddings, barmitzvahs, conferences and even CONFERENCES VENUES & EVENTS 12 SA JEWISH REPORT - 16 - 23 March 2012 Intimate conference venue No compromise on coaching in the heart of Sandton standards from Coachman MARLENE BILEWITZ MARLENE BILEWITZ have been the epitome of your "wandering Jew". Upping standards in coach main- The Stables, an elite small venue in the The Travel Company, conveniently situat- tenance means safety and reliabil- grounds of the Travel Company’s premises in ed in Sandown, deals in all forms of travel. On ity on the roads, which in turn Sandton, is open Monday to Friday, from the corporate level Lynne and her competent means happy passengers. That 08:00 to 17:00. and friendly staff will organise events of all has been the single-minded aim It provides complete catering and confer- sizes, from small think-tanks in their charm- behind Thinus le Roux’s decision ence facilities for small functions (maximum ing little conference venue attached to their to launch his own coach company 18). Teas and lunch are served around the premises, to full-scale conferences, incentive in 1994 - Coachman Coaches. pool, or in the cosy atmosphere of an over- and team-building packages for the business- There are stringent mainte- “on-the-move” setting with reclining seats. sized boardroom. man/woman in destinations and venues of nance schedules that every Coachman Every new Coachman driver is put on a The Travel Company has become known choice nationally or internationally. coach is subjected to in the company’s five-day intensive training course, which for its expertise and efficiency in corporate They will arrange all the travel, accommo- state-of-the-art in-house workshop. The includes procedures such as company regula- travel, conferences and events. Lynne Backos dation, transport, speakers, conference equip- schedules mean comfortable and hassle- tions, care of the coach when travelling, com- and her right-hand work partner, Corinna, ment and entertainment if requested. free journeys for passengers. munication with the office and clients, gen- Adele and Maggie, are always there to take On the leisure side, kosher travel, includ- “Passengers shouldn’t have to be con- eral conduct, accident procedures, documen- care of you. ing kosher cruises, have become quite a spe- cerned about what it is that makes a jour- tation, map reading and route planning, pre- cialty. ney great, from comfortable, clean, well- trip and post-trip checks and general mainte- The Travel Company will organise maintained coaches, excellent drivers, to nance, customer care and driver attitude. absolutely everything for you, right from smooth, efficient, and friendly handling of “Our drivers are the face of the compa- assisting with documentation and visas, to all arrangements,” Le Roux says. ny; their attitude and conduct will make a (over and above the standard air tickets) car- The first coaches were three Stradas, difference to the passengers’ experience of hire, hotel accommodation, transport and called Paris, Brussels, and London. This the trip. Every passenger is a VIP and every transfers. Nothing is too much trouble. whimsical practice led to all Coachman trip is special,” emphasises Sonja le Roux. If you are not sure of what's available or coaches from then on being given their Sonja and Thinus are on the subcom- suitable for your company, rest assured that own names. mittee of COASA (Coach Operators Lynne will find it. In 1998 Le Roux’s wife Sonja, joined Association of SA), as well as of SABOA (SA The Travel Company instils great confi- the company to take over its finances and Bus Operators Association), with Sonja dence while imparting a definite sense of together they set about growing Coachman recently having been elected chairman of For intimate boardroom meetings in the authority and knowledge, on whatever they with no compromise on standards in main- the association. heart of Sandton. sell. Please look at the website tenance or service. “We’re set to encouraging greater http://www.travelcompany.co.za, which is Today Coachman Coaches has a fleet of responsibility for passenger safety and Business or leisure, The Travel Company's constantly being updated and is very inform- vehicles ranging from a 15-seater luxury comfort throughout the coaching value the one. Lynne, CEO of a 36-year-old family- ative. bus to a 60-seater, including a boardroom chain, as well as compensating for the car- run business, is a workaholic who is passion- • Contact Lynne at e-mail: lynne@travel- coach, which accommodates 28 people bon footprint our coaches leave on the ate about travel. She says if she didn't have a company.co.za for all your corporate and around a boardroom table in a luxurious planet,” says Sonja. family to anchor her down, she surely would leisure travel requirements. CONFERENCES VENUES & EVENTS SA JEWISH REPORT - 16 - 23 March 2012 13 MSC Sinfonia and MSA Opera for SA’s summer season MSC Starlight Cruises recently announced the return of MSC Sinfonia and the addition of MSC Opera to South Africa for the 2012/13 summer season.

Both vessels will bring elegance and glamour to South African guests, offering select new cruise destinations as part of their Summer 2012/13 itineraries. MSC Sinfonia and MSC Opera both provide an extraordinary showcase for your corporate initiatives. Widely acclaimed for the spectacular interiors, both ships offer a luxury resort with a view of the world that’s different every day. Various cruise destinations throughout the summer season, out of Durban and Cape Town, offer perfect variety to suite budget and incentive need. World-class conference facilities include a theatre for large corporate events, meeting rooms and complete technical infrastruc- tures so you and your guests can work just as you need. Varied modern sports and leisure facilities provide valuable team-building opportunities, while sumptuous spa centres, gour- met cuisine, varied entertainment and atten- tive staff pamper your guests in elegant sur- roundings. MSC Cruises offers a specialist department that can comprehensively tailor the facilities and services to your needs, advising on and taking care of every detail of your initiative. Accommodation, meals, entertainment and use of facilities are all included in the fare. Bring the family along with children under 18 cruising free [T&Cs]. For more information, visit: www.msccruises.com or www.mscstarlightcruises.co.za Telephone: +27 11 807 5111, fax: 086 457 9100. We are also on Facebook. Our address is www.facebook.com/mscstarlight Our physical address is MSC Starlight Cruises, 1 Wessels Road, Rivonia, Jo- hannesburg. 14 SA JEWISH REPORT Whats On 23 - 30 March 2012

News in brief NOTE: Deadline for all entries is 12:00 on the Friday prior to publication. BRITAIN OPPOSES ISRAELI BILLS TO RELAX MARRIAGE IRAN STRIKE AT THIS TIME REGISTRATION RULES PASS Today Friday (March 23) Issues in 2012”. Venue: Beyachad. mission is to influence and empow- KNESSET COMMITTEE • UZLC hosts columnist David Time:09:30. Enquiries: Gertie er women throughout the world NEW YORK - British Prime Minister Bullard on “18 Years On - Do We (011) 646-1478. and to strengthen the Jewish- David Cameron says his country has JERUSALEM - Two bills that would Really Live In a Non-Racial South Zionist identity. Time: 19:45. informed Jerusalem that it opposes allow Jewish couples in Israel to be Africa?” Venue: Our Parents Wednesday (March 28) Venue: Sephardi Shul Hall, Sea an Israeli military strike against Iran at married by national-religious rabbis in Home. Time: 12:45 – 14:00. • Balfour Park Parkinson’s Disease Point. Cost: R40. (Parking on Kloof this time. the city of their choice were approved Contact Gloria: 072-127-9421 or Support Group meeting in the board- Road at Herzlia School.) (021) 464- “I don't think as we stand today by a Knesset committee. (011) 485-4851. room of Randjes Estate, Highlands 6729 e-mail [email protected] that military action by Israel would The "Tzohar laws", named after the North. Time: 10:00. Jane Khedeyer, be justified,” Cameron told NBC’s organisation of Modern Orthodox rab- Saturday evening (March 24) Sandton Support Group leader of the Wednesday (April 4) Brian Williams. "I don't think the bis that performs alternative religious • Pine Street Shul has its Pre-Pesach Depression and Anxiety Society, will • UJW CT adult education division is Israelis should take that action wedding ceremonies would remove Concert at the shul in Orchards: speak on depression, which is a com- hosting David Davidson who will now. We told them they shouldn't jurisdictional hurdles that prevent the Time: 20:00 for 20:20. Entrance: mon problem in Parkinson’s Disease. talk about his visit to Japan and and said we wouldn't support it if organisation's rabbis from performing R100. Featuring Ezra Sher, Tzvi Information: Rosemary Burke (011) “African Gardens in the Far East”. they did. We've been very clear. wedding ceremonies recognised by the Gudelsky, Ari Kievman and oth- 640-391. Venue: Stonehaven. Time: 10:00 (JTA) office of the Chief Rabbinate. (JTA) ers. Music: Evelyn Green and Ray • WIZO Meir Szold screening of the for 10:30. Entrance: R20 (incl Perkel. Beneficiaries: Chabad film “The Black Book”. Venue: refreshments). Enquiries: (021) Seniors Programme and Lubavitch Beyachad. Time: 09:30 for 10:00. 434-9555 (mornings only). AL-QAIDA CHIEF OFFERS CONVICTED NAZI WAR Yeshiva Pretoria. Tickets: Lilly Cost: R40. Information: Sandy SWAP FOR WEINSTEIN CRIMINAL JOHN (011) 485-2645 or Ashley (011) (011) 645-2515. Tuesday (April 17) DEMJANJUK DIES 728-6366. • RCHCC is hosting best-selling • The Florence Melton Adult Mini- JERUSALEM - Al-Qaida leader Ayman author and speaker Chris van Wyk School presents a two-year aca- al-Zawahiri said he would swap an BONN - John Demjanjuk, the Sunday (March 25) on his books “Shirley Goodness demic course teaching Jewish edu- American hostage for prisoners in the Cleveland-area autoworker convicted • KDSF is hosting a performance of and Mercy” and “Eggs to Lay, cation to adults. The first year US with links to the organisation. for crimes he committed as a Nazi the hit Broadway musical “The Last Chickens to Hatch”, introduced course starts today and it will run In exchange for Warren Weinstein death camp guard, has died in a Five Years”, starring ex-Davidian by Prof David Medalie. Time: every Tuesday evening from 19:15 (70), Zawahiri called for the release of German nursing home. Talia Kodesh with Niall Griffin and 19:30. Donation: R60 (incl to 21:30. Registration now open. Sheikh Omar Abdul Rahman, the blind Demjanjuk, 91, died last directed by ex-Davidian Gina refreshments). Venue: Clive M Venue: Beyachad. For more details cleric convicted of attempting to blow Saturday at an old-age home Shmukler. Venue: Montecasino Beck Auditorium. Booking: Hazel contact Ariella Milner, (011) up the World Trade Centre in the early in southern Germany, where he Studio Theatre. Time: 18:00. A light or René (011) 728-8088/8378, 882-4051 or 082-804-6113. E- 1990s; the family of Osama bin Laden, was free while he appealed his con- supper will be served before the after hours (011) 728-8378. E- mail:[email protected] or the assassinated leader of Al-Qaida; viction last year for his role in the show. Tickets: R250. To book: Carly mail: [email protected] or www.fmams.org.il and Aafia Siddiqui, who was convicted murder of 28 060 people at the Mervis at [email protected] or [email protected] in 2010 in New York for attempting to Sobibor death camp in Poland. (011) 480-4710. • UJW CT adult education division Friday (April 20) murder US government officials. (JTA) (JTA) • Second Innings hosts The Russel hosts author Mike Nicol, on • Chevrah Kadisha Social Services is Singers (Choir) in “Across the “Nelson Mandela and the Three facilitating a support group for Footlights”. Venue: Gerald Warders” Venue: Stonehaven. women who are or have been in Horwitz Lounge, Golden Acres. Time: 10:00 for 10:30. Entrance: abusive relationships. It starts Time: 10:00 for 10:30. R20 (incl refreshments). Enquiries: today. The group, which will be (021) 434-9555 (mornings only). facilitated by a social worker, offers Monday (March 26) a safe and confidential space where • King David High School Victory Thursday (March 29) women can become empowered Park’s annual musical, this year “A • Fundraiser quiz for SAUJS at with information and support. For Night at the Theatre” starts today Colony Arms. The quiz covers a bookings or more information, call and runs until Wednesday, March range of topics from history to Jacqui: (011) 532-9732. 28. Further information: Eida science and nature, movies, sport, Schneiderman, (011) 446-7862. music, current events etc. Teams Wednesday (April 25) • Metzuyan Quiz Night at Met- of 4-8. Time: 19:30. Cost R35pp. • Chevrah Kadisha is offering a sup- zuyan in Rosebank. The quiz, Prizes to be won. Early booking is port group for family members/ with quizmaster Kevin Bonner, essential. To book call or SMS significant others of people with covers a range of topics from his- Larry on 082-888-5355. mental illness, starting today. tory to science and nature, • UJW CT’s Constantia Group is hav- Contact Darrin on (011) 532-9733 movies, sport, music, current ing “Breakfast Under the Trees” for more information. events etc. Teams of 4-8. Time: with Jonathan Nkala and Faith in • Chevrah Kadisha Community 19:30. Cost R35pp. Prizes to be Love. Cost: R120. Enquiries: J Services is offering a life skills won. Early booking is essential. Poswell: 083-446-2535. group for teens, “Teens 1010”.The Call or SMS Larry on 082-888- group kicks off today. Come learn 5355. Monday (April 2) about: building self esteem, man- • Bnoth Zion WIZO hosts leading aging friendships and other rela- Tuesday (March 27) Israeli businesswoman and talk- tionships, how to deal with con- • WIZO Forum hosts Dr Jonathan show host Galia Albin, who will flict and much more. Contact Broomberg, CEO of Discovery launch the 2012-2013 Women’s Gabriella, (011) 532-9616 for Health, who will speak on “Health Biennial Zionist Campaign. Her more information. 23 - 30 March 2012 SA JEWISH REPORT 15 World through Auschwitz lens amounts to Jewish and Israeli PTSD

Israelis and many US Jews seem to suffer from post- traumatic stress disorder, looking at events primarily through the framework of Auschwitz. Rabbi Lerner makes out a case against an Israeli first strike in Iran.

MICHAEL LERNER politically and economically powerful SAN FRANCISCO groups in society, and Israel is one of the strongest military powers on Earth both in When I learned of the murder of dozens of conventional and nuclear military power. members of my family in the Holocaust and Yet speak to many American Jews or then met my Israeli relatives whose Israelis and they feel totally insecure. They Auschwitz numbers could hardly be missed see Amalek, Haman or Hitler lurking in on their arms, I decided to dedicate my life every enemy. to challenging war, the denial of human So the Palestinian people, without an rights, the hatred of minorities, and social army, has been seen consistently as Nazis. and economic injustice. First Yasser Arafat, then Hezbollah and I also wanted to challenge the break- Hamas, and now Iran are seen as the down of human solidarity and the fear that embodiment of the Nazi threat. competitive societies generate in their citi- As a result, Israel and many American zens, which destroys the natural instinct of Jews have been unable to respond to rea- individuals to care for “the other” and lead sonable plans for a peace accord that have people to grab on to fascistic pseudo-solu- come from the Israeli peace movement and tions to their growing misery. even from the Saudi peace proposal in Imagine my surprise, then, when I 2002 - re-offered in 2007 - for peace and found that my own Jewish people, which reconciliation between Israel and the entire for 2 000 years had fostered a religion of Arab world. compassion, nonviolence, social justice, Not everyone has been completely pursuing peace and generosity toward oth- unable to see that an attack on Iran by ers, had responded to Auschwitz and the Israel - and the likely embroilment of the Holocaust by adopting a fear-based world- US in a war with Iran - will be a disaster for view. Israel and the US. Such an attack also likely In this post-Holocaust period, power would intensify anti-Semitism around the over others - rather than love, kindness and world based not on previous irrational generosity (that is the teachings of our beliefs that the Jews killed Jesus, but on Torah) - would be our new way of identify- the legitimate outrage of people around the ing as Jews. world against any country that engages in a In so doing we began to give Hitler a vic- “pre-emptive first strike” against another. tory he did not deserve and abandoned the In fact, in the first week of March, a poll G-d who was revealed as a force in the uni- showed that a majority of Israelis disagree verse for chesed, loving-kindness, compas- with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin sion and mercy. Instead, we worshipped at Netanyahu and oppose a unilateral Israeli the altar of power and military might. first strike. And the Jewish State became famous as The US did not take a pre-emptive the most powerful army in the Middle East. strike against North Korea or any of the I’m glad Israel is strong, and I’ve other Communist states with ideological opposed those who seek to promote the fanatics at their helm - including the Soviet campaign of Boycott, Union and China Divestment and “I’m glad Israel is strong, and when they developed Sanctions against Israel nuclear war capacities (though I support BDS I’ve opposed those who seek to - instead relying on its against the settlements promote the campaign of own nuclear capacity of the West Bank). to wipe out any coun- I’m against those Boycott, Divestment and try that would who sought to reduce Sanctions against Israel (though attempt to strike at us. US military aid to I support BDS against the set- Many Israelis Israel. I was proud to recognise that the have brought my son to tlements of the West Bank).” strategy of mutually Israel, sent him to high assured destruction, school there and been which has kept the there to wash his clothes and feed him world safe even with some countries hav- every weekend during the time he served in ing nuclear weapons, will keep Israel safe one of the Israeli Defence Forces’ scariest even if Iran has nuclear weapons. combat units, the paratroopers, praying It is only PTSD that makes it difficult that he would survive those perilous jumps. for many American Jews and some Israeli But as a researcher at Tel Aviv and hawks to recognise that as ideologically Hebrew Universities, I discovered that crazy as the Iranian government is today, Israelis were suffering from post-traumatic there is zero reason to believe that it would stress disorder. They were seeing current be willing to have Iran bombed into obliv- events primarily through the framework of ion by US and Israeli nuclear retaliation Auschwitz, the Holocaust and the suffer- from a first strike by Iran. ings of our life in exile. PTSD so obscures our vision that many I already had discovered in my work as a Jews have sided with US militarists who psychotherapist - before I became a rabbi or always like a good excuse to amp up the editor of Tikkun magazine - that a signifi- military-industrial complex. cant section of American Jews suffered It’s time to heal from the distorted per- from similar PTSD. ceptions of seeing the world through the PTSD is the psychological category that framework of Auschwitz. does not attribute the distortions in per- ception to one’s inner life. It acknowledges • Rabbi Michael Lerner is the editor of Tikkun that there really was a trauma, but that the magazine and author most recently of source of the trauma is no longer there. “Embracing Israel/Palestine: A Strategy to American Jews are one of the most Heal and Transform the Middle East.” 16 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 - 30 March 2012 Looking for ‘insanity’ in Rabbi Ramon the right place Widmonte (executive director of JANICE LEIBOWITZ Mizrachi SA); PHOTOGRAPH BY HAYLEY Jonathan van der GINSBERG Westhuizen; Jonty Bennie; Thanks to the vision of Women of the Rabbi Laurence World, once again educationist Gavin Perez (rabbi of Keller (pictured) has left teachers and par- Mizrachi SA); ents of Johannesburg learners inspired and awe-struck with his incredible insight Norbe Rodrigues; into the workings of young, developing and Richard van brains. der Westhuizen. Keller, as a guest speaker of WoW, (PHOTOGRAPH: BLUE AVENUE reminded his audience our children were PARTNERS) not adults, and treating them as such would only lead to a communication break- down between parents and their offspring. Starting with a well-balanced panel In order to better understand and educate Chivas Regal Mizrachi Golf Day discussion with visiting Rabbi Akiva Tatz on today’s children, one needs to know that we ROZANNE SACK ed, with a host of notable hole sponsors. “Raising Sane Children in an Insane Society”, cannot expect them to think for themselves as The vibe on the course was festive, with Keller started his lecture tour with the not so their thought processes are not yet developed On February 21, the Chivas Regal Mizrachi Rabbi Laurence Perez performing trick gentle intimation that society had actually enough to make informed choices. Golf Day was held at Glendower Golf shots on the 17th hole and keeping the play- evolved into what it was today. Parents and teachers, the adult influences Course. ers entertained. That said, the only solution was that the and role models in our children’s lives, need to This day is one of the longest-running The day ended with a jovial prize-giving “kids of today” were actually the sane ones, guide them in the right direction and help ones in the Jewish community and is dinner run by Rabbi Ramon Widmonte. and it was the adults who were, in fact, insane! them to make the choices best suited to them. attended by young businessmen as well as The winners walked out with flat screen TV Once we’ve come to terms with that mind- We need to encourage them in what they more established pillars of the business and bottles of Chivas Regal, among other numbing fact, we should be one step further are most talented at in order for them to feel community. This year, 112 players compet- prizes. to understanding our “?-generation” children. that they are able to achieve, although it may The venue was packed. During his talks on not be in similar areas to others. “The Talent Code”, “Secrets of the Teenage Each child is unique and has his or herr Brain” and “Motivational DNA”, he reinforced own unique abilities. It is fundamental to their Elephant Whisperer’s voice now quiet the concept of “Crocodile (animal/reactive) well-being and self-confidence that they are Brain”, “Elephant (emotional) Brain”, and nurtured in the areas that they are good at. BEV GOLDMAN nating world of these animals. “Thinking Brain”. Yet again, Keller has left his indelible mark The evening was a great success. UJW If people thought they were only coming on our community. And the adults of the Conservationist and author Lawrence is to be congratulated on a wonderful to listen, they were mistaken. Keller’s interac- future will only be better off for it. Anthony of “The Elephant Whisperer” event. tive style ensures that everyone participates in • Women of the World is committed to fame, who died three weeks ago, gave his His death leaves behind a void that will his foot-stomping, arm-waving interludes, enhancing education in SA and nurturing the last public talk to the Union of Jewish not easily be filled. His book, “The timed at regular intervals to guarantee that nurturers. For more information, go to Women at Shepstone Gardens, the beauti- Elephant Whisperer”, on which he based nobody’s concentration wanes. www.womenoftheworld.org.za ful Mountain View venue, in Johannesburg his talk, has become a best-seller; he was on February 21 – just a week before his about to launch his next book, “The Last death in his sleep on March 1. Rhinos: The Powerful Story of One Man’s Elephants are the most fascinating and Battle to Save a Species”. intriguing of all mammals, and a capacity Having impressed on the audience how crowd listened and laughed with Lawrence perceptive elephants are, it came as no as he took us on his life’s journey with surprise that two days after Lawrence’s these magnificent creatures with whom he death a herd of elephants, which had not lived and worked for so many years. been near his home on Thula Thula for He told delightful stories and anec- well over a year, walked for over 12 hours dotes, and the number and variety of ques- and filed past the house in single file, in tions at the close of his talk bore testament what Lawrence’s wife said was “the to his ability to draw us all into the fasci- Elephants paying their last respects”.

Conservationist Lawrence Anthony with Lynne Raphaely, co-chairman of UJW, Johannesburg, and her grand- sons, wildlife enthusiasts, Dani and Natan Abramson.

Community Briefs

CHONI G WINS JEWISH STAR IN NY ‘MATERIAL’ – STORY OF PURSUING A DREAM Last week, Choni Goldman, aka Choni G, son of Rabbi Yossy and Rebbetzen Rochel Goldman of Last week, Great Park Synagogue hosted a dinner for Sydenham Shul, won the Jewish Star at Brooklyn young adults featuring Ronnie Apteker, producer of College, New York. Entrants came from as far afield acclaimed film Material. He described the film’s journey as the Ukraine and Mexico to take part in this com- from inception to release: “Material could just as easily petition, which has the clout of a Jewish Idols. have been set in a Jewish, Italian or Portuguese com- Choni was voted among the top 16 in the public munity. It is the story of an individual pursuing a dream online vote; a panel of Jewish music experts chose despite the societal and cultural pressures – a theme him among the top eight; excitement rose as he with which we can all identify.” Apteker’s visit is part of made the top three, and finally, first place. Following an initiative by the shul to attract young people. It follows this win, Goldman sang in a drug rehabilitation- another successful dinner honouring bar- and batmitz- focused telethon in Hollywood. – Robyn Sassen vah candidates for 2012. - Rabbi Shmuel Simpson 23 - 30 March 2012 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 Malema pronouncements hurt SA - Clem Sunter ALISON GOLDBERG tion as to how government ment; the alienation of the youth from society system where on no account can the 5 000 would pay for them. as a result; and their use of social media to performing schools out of a total 28 000 be Policy uncertainty in South Government borrowings would communicate their grievances. allowed to be “dumbed-down”. Africa over mine nationalisa- push the country’s debt-to-GDP Sunter’s failed state scenario could be trig- The global scenario is likely to be one of tion and potential land expro- ratio from 38 per cent to 138 gered by a random event caused by South hard times for the next five years, putting the priation saw South Africa tum- per cent. Greece stands at 160 Africa’s 40-50 per cent unemployment rate onus on businesses to offer value for money ble last year from 44th place per cent. among the 18-24 year olds, which would then and nations to work smarter as they move among the 59 member premier A clumsy implementation of spiral into political unrest. from the age of information to the age of intel- league economies to 52nd place the mooted National Health Other flags are the country’s education ligence. in The World Competitiveness Insurance would lead to a Year Book’s rankings. decline in private healthcare. Scenario planner Clem The imposition of a media Sunter, of consultancy Mind of tribunal to curb press freedom, a Fox, says there is a 50 per cent allied with the ongoing under- probability South Africa will mining of the judiciary’s inde- stay in the premier league; a 35 per cent pendence, would lead to a massive increase in chance it’ll join the second division; and 15 per corruption. cent odds it’ll become a failed state. Second The potential for land grabs as occurred in division would mean exclusion from the G20; Zimbabwe calls for an “Agridesa” (a play on an inability to earn tax revenue and access SA’s Codesa talks prior to 1994). This requires finance; and its certain replacement by Nigeria multi-party talks on the best way to imple- among the fast-growing Brics nations. ment land transfers to “a substantial number Sunter was addressing the inaugural of good emerging farmers”. A Zanu-PF gov- WIZO Forum recently at Beyachad. ernment official recently admitted that Referring to the failed state possibility, Zimbabwe, from being the fastest growing Sunter says South Africa has got to get its country in Sadec, “hit the wall” after the inva- ducks in a row on several red flags and one sion of white-owned farms. tendency - the latter best exemplified by The tendency in South Africa - a flag Japan’s tendency towards earthquakes. Western embassies failed to notice in the run- Nationalisation of mines, poses the ques- up to the Arab Spring - is youth unemploy-

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CE: How long have you been involved with Torah Academy? RS: Twenty seven years and in that time I’ve seen our learners go on to become doctors, lawyers, businesswomen, rebbetzens and generally productive and giving members of the Jewish community.

CE: What do you enjoy the most about being a Amy Lissoos; Sarah Rosenthal; Lily Segal; and Eden Meyerthal. principal? RS: The girls - my interaction with different Principal Rebecca Sarchi. types of girls. Every girl is different. And I love spending time and getting to know them. And multi-task. ‘Big Walk’ seeing the “end result”. It is always so gratify- Fifthly, I have learned to believe in every ing to see a learner develop from a pre-teen learner. This is what ultimately brings about girl into a young woman ready to take on the her success. And so often, when you believe in strengthens world. someone, they begin to believe in themselves And also the warm, nurturing atmosphere as well, even where they did not before. of the school with its happy staff members. I have learned to be ready to listen. It is so family ties important to a person, and especially a learn- CE: What are your best and worst moments? er, to feel that they can come to me with a JOHANNES MOUTON RS: My best moments? My best memories problem or concern, and that they will be PHOTOGRAPH: STACY FLEISHMAN come from times when the whole school is heard and taken seriously. together as one united group - the Purim par- What a wonderful and successful day! The Jonathan van Vuren; Gaby Nossel; ties, the school productions, the annual CE: What lasting message would you like learners “Big Walk” at King David Victory Park Joshua Katz; Joshua Nossel; Joshua Shabbatons and so on. And I love seeing learn- to internalise from TAGH? Primary School went off with a bang. It Modlin; and Daniel Fleishman. Seated in ers fulfilling their potential. That always RS: Life is what you make of it, and every- was great to see all the children and par- front is Aryn Bloch. makes me really proud. thing depends on your attitude toward any sit- ents, their dogs and family, all there to My worst moments are saying goodbye. It uation. Always be a mensch. Never judge oth- enjoy the day. The smiles we saw and the laughter is always a bitter-sweet experience when a class ers. Be so happy that when others look at you The Johannesburg Metro Police accompanying it, made us all appreciate of matric girls leaves. There is a sense of pride, they become happy too. Department’s lead car, the road closures the time we could spend with family and but it feels like part of the family is leaving. I believe that we have made a difference and police presence, was a hit and a great friends. The children really enjoyed the and impacted positively on the lives of all of source of comfort for all as we could enjoy jumping castles and waterslides and we CE: What have you learned or gained from your our girls. In most cases I know that that is the the scenic route unhindered by traffic and had to switch off the power to get them experience as a principal? case, because I have kept in touch with girls other disturbances. off. RS: Firstly, I have learned never to judge. whenever possible, and follow their life suc- There is a reason behind everything. cesses. And our girls feel that the years they Secondly, I have gained a massive under- spent at Torah Academy were some of the best standing of people generally, and an insight years of their lives. into interpersonal relationships. Thirdly, I have gained a tremendous pride CE: If a new learner comes to TAGH, what should and satisfaction - a real nachas - from seeing she expect? what our girls have gained during their years RS: A warm, nurturing, loving and caring at TAGH. environment, where she can fulfil her social, Fourthly, I have definitely learned to emotional and academic potential.

Well done King David Sandton Primary School

LAUREN DOVE PHOTOGRAPH: LINDA GREENSTEIN

King David Sandton Primary School is proud of its two grade 7 learners who have taken up executive positions on the Gila Dove is the executive chairman of Johannesburg Mini City Council for 2012. her committee, The Smile Committee. Jared Greenstein is mayor of the Mini Both Jared and Gila look forward to an City Council. This honour has now been exciting and beneficial year, aiding various bestowed on King David Sandton for two organisations in our community through years in a row. the council.

TA Primary’s eager matzah makers OWN CORRESPONDENT PHOTOGRAPH: SUZANNE BELLING

Grade 1 learners at Torah Academy Primary School visited the matzah facto- ry at Chabad House in Savoy, Johannesburg, last week Wednesday where, under the watchful eye of Mendel Kievman, they learnt how to mix and bake their own matzah, with the assistance of master matzah baker Patrick Kamazizwa. Pictured are Ella Levin and Devorah Leah Woznica brandishing their rolling pins - not as weapons - but to roll out the dough. 23 - 30 March 2012 Classifieds SA JEWISH REPORT 19

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Immediate Close to 4 shuls. contact the Israel Centre for more informa- (011) 728-5219 082-922-3597 tion, Johannesburg (011) 645-2560 or Cape 083-627-8516 occupation. 083-452-6666. anytime Contact 073-522-2328 Town (021) 464-6718. 20 SA JEWISH REPORT Sport 23 - 30 March 2012 Munich survivor is to be inducted into Hall of Fame Six Israeli athletes are to be inducted this year into the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, covering a wide range of sporting disciplines.

JACK MILNER

The International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame has released the names of those who will be inducted this year. While the Hall Of Fame is based at the Wingate Institute in Israel, the organisation behind it is American and as such, they hold the purse strings, so to speak, of who gets in. This year they have honoured a basketball player, a figure skating champion, a fencer, a boxer a table tennis champ and an Above: Munich massacre survivor Shaul Ladany at the Game of their Lives: Israeli athlete who survived the terrorist Achievements in Spirit and Sport exhibition held in Israel earlier this year. attack on the Israeli team at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Left: Fencer Sada Jacobson in action at the last Olympics. The inductees are American Louis Bender, Petra Burka of Canada, Americans 1964 and 1965, was Canada’s Outstanding 1952. 1934 to 1941 - with the Boston Celtics Sada Jacobson and Ben Jeby, Austrian- Female Athlete of the Year. Petra is the Basketball player Louis Bender, (1934-35), Union City Reds (1936-37), born Argentinian Erwin Kohn and Israeli daughter of 2010 Hall Of Fame figure skat- Columbia University All-America 1930 and Boston Trojans (1938-40) and New York Shaul Ladany. ing honoree Ellen Burka 1932, and All Ivy League 1930, 1931 and Whirlwinds (1941). Starting at the end, Ladany was one of In 2004, Sada Jacobson was ranked No 1932, was the Ivy League’s top scorer in Also honoured are New York Times Israel’s top race-walkers of the 1960s-70s 1 in women’s World Sabre rankings, the 1930 and 1931, and one of, if not the sportswriter Murray Chass and Bill and set the World 50-mile record in 1972, only American to ever reach the top posi- most, celebrated major college stars of his Davidson, majority owner of the National his 7:44:47,2 shattering the existing world tion. At the age of 17, she won a team gold era. He led his Columbia Lions to League Basketball League’s Detroit Pistons from mark that had endured since 1935. He was medal at the 2000 World Championships, championships in 1930 and 1931. the summer of 1974 until his passing in gold medallist at the ’72 World and a second team gold in 2005. Bender played professionally from March 2009, Championships in the 100km event At the 2004 and 2006 World (9:31:00). Ladany was top walker at the US Championships, Sada earned a pair of Championships five times between 1973 team silver medals, as well as an Individual and 1981, winning the 75km champi- bronze in 2006. At the Olympic Games onships from 1974 to Sada captured an individ- 1977, and the 100km The Olympic Games in ual silver and team bronze title in 1974. London coincides with in 2008, and an individual He won champi- bronze in 2004. The Yale onships in Belgium 1971 the 40th anniversary of University undergraduate and 1972; Switzerland the Munich Olympic was NCAA collegiate sabre 1972; and South Africa Games terrorist attack. champion in 2001 and 1975. As an eight-year 2002, and US women’s old in Belgrade, Yugo- sabre champion in 2004 slavia during the Second World War, Shaul and 2006. She was US Fencer of the Year in was sent to the Bergen-Belsen concentra- 2003. tion camp. A US-inspired ransom deal New York-born Ben Jeby was world saved 2 000 camp prisoners, of which he middleweight champion in 1933. He won was one, and brought him to the United his title on January 13 1933 in a 12-round States. TKO over Frankie Battaglia. Following sev- After the state of Israel became into eral successful title defences, Jeby lost the being in 1948, Ladany emigrated to the championship to Lou Brouillard on August Jewish homeland where he began his track 9 1933. career as a marathoner, but changed to Jeby had his first pro fight in 1927 at walking in the early 1960s. the age of 17, and didn’t get a crack at the He was the lone male member of the title until five-and-a half-years later, when 1972 Israeli Olympic men’s track team, reigning world champion Marcel Thil and one of only five who survived the Arab vacated his middleweight crown. Jeby terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 11 fought 73 pro fights, winning 54 (22 by team members. The Olympic Games in KO), drew 4, lost 14 (12 by KO) with one London this year will mark the 40th no-contest. anniversary of the attack. Austrian Erwin Kohn won the 1936 World Doubles Table Tennis Champion- Boxer Ben Jeby was world mid- ship (with Richard Bergman), and his dleweight champion in 1933, Austrian team won the Swathling Cup, the men’s team World Table Tennis beating Frankie Battaglia. Championship. In 1932 and 1935, Kohn took bronze in Canada’s Petra Burka won the World Men’s World Singles. In 1933 (with Paul Figure Skating Championship in 1965. A Flussmann) and 1934 (with Miroslav year earlier, she took the bronze medal at Hamr), he earned bronze medals in men’s the 1964 Winter Olympic Games. Burka World Doubles. In 1929, at the age of 17, also won bronze at the 1964 and 1966 and again in 1934, Kohn’s Austrian team World Championships. were silver medallists at the World The Netherlands-born figure skater, Championships and bronze finishers in who emigrated to Canada in 1951, was the 1932, 1933 and 1935. first woman to land a triple salchow in Kohn was Austria’s national table ten- competition, achieving the feat en route to nis champion by the age of 16, and winning the 1965 Canadian Figure Skating European champion at 17. Championship. She also won the 1964 and In 1938, at the outset of the Second 1966 Canadian titles. World War, Kohn escaped to England and Petra was named Canada’s Outstanding then emigrated to Argentina where he Athlete of the Year in 1964, and twice, dominated table tennis between 1940 and