BOOKS: EXPOSING THE BAD ODOUR SURROUNDING CHANEL NO 5 / 15 Subscribe to our FREE epaper - go to www.sajewishreport.co.za

www.sajewishreport.co.za Friday, 25 November 2011 / 28 Cheshvan, 5772 Volume 15 Number 43 ‘Secrecy Bill’: a ‘Jewish issue’? PAGE 3, 8

THETHE STUFFSTUFF DREAMSDREAMS AREARE MADEMADE OF...OF...

Rabbi Dovid Masinter of Chabad House in Johannesburg, hosted about 300 children, including orphans from the Fountain of Love Aids Orphanage in Kathlehong near Germiston, to a concert of Ethan Bortnick at the Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City, last week. He is seen here with Helen Fraser of the Nashua Children’s Charity Foundation. During the performance 12-year-old Beatrice Renata, one of the guests, told Ethan that her dream was to become a dancer. Ethan, not realising that Beatrice does not have parents, said her parents should give her all the support. After being called up to dance on the stage, at the end of the concert, Ethan called her in for a private meeting where she was told that the Umoja Foundation would sponsor her with dance lessons, making her dream come true. SEE PAGE 4 Holocaust Centre Israel advocates Sharise Weiner: An Harold Rudolph Golden Years breaks ground / 3 start winning / 9 asset to Bench! / 20 passes away / 5 feature / 11-14 YOUTH / 18 SPORTS / 24 LETTERS / 16 & 17 CROSSWORD & SUDOKU / 21 COMMUNITY BUZZ / 6 WHAT'S ON / 21 2 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 SHABBAT TIMES PARSHA OF THE WEEK Hatzolah wins award from RCSA November 25/ 28 Cheshvan ROBYN SASSEN November 26 /29 Cheshvan PARSHAT TRAINING CENTRE co- Toldot TOLDOT Dwell in ordinator Alon Crouse, in 18:15 19:17 Johannesburg Rabbi Matthew the name of medical res- 18:09 20:16 Cape Town Liebenberg cue operation, Hatzolah, 18:15 19:14 Durban Claremont Wynberg recently received a presti- gious award from the 18:20 19:31 Bloemfontein Hebrew Congregation the land Resuscitation Council of 17:40 19:47 Port Elizabeth SA:. the Chain of Survival 18:15 19:35 East London FAMINE AND hunger is an unfortunate reality of the 21st century, Award for their Resus- but it is by no means a new phenomenon. Our Sages record 10 bibli- citation Cabinet and CPR cal famines that debilitated the ancient world, starting in the times of project. the first man, Adam. The cabinet, installed in Included in this list are the famines experienced by our forefathers 44 shuls and other com- Alon Crouse with the Resuscitation Council Published by Abraham and later by his son, Isaac. munal facilities in of SA award, received on behalf of S A Jewish Report (Pty) Ltd, When Isaac was confronted with famine, he went to Avimelech, Gauteng, consists of a Hatzolah. PHOTOGRAPH BY JASON CROUSE. PO Box 84650, Greenside, 2034 King of the Philistines in Gerar. Isaac’s original intention was to fol- blue cabinet containing a Tel: (011) 023-8160 According to the American Heart Fax: (086) 634-7935 low the example of his father and move further south to Egypt, but one-way facemask and a bag valve Printed by Caxton Ltd he was stopped by G-d, who said to him: “Do not descend to Egypt! mask, both for the emergency alle- Association, the chain of survival Rather you shall dwell in the land that I shall speak to you about. viation of breathing problems; an has three steps which are up to the EDITOR - Geoff Sifrin [email protected] Sojourn in this land and I shall be with you and I shall bless you, for automatic external defibrillator bystander in a time of cardiac crisis: to you and your seed shall I give these lands and I shall affirm with (AED) for use in cardiac arrest; an early access (recognition of the COMMERCIAL MANAGER you the covenant that I swore to your father Abraham.” oxygen cylinder and mask and a cell symptoms); early CPR (chest com- Sue Morris Why did G-d use the conflicting verbs “dwell” (sh’chon) and pressions and assisted breathing); [email protected] phone pre-programmed with “sojourn” (gur), the former implying permanence and the latter Hatzolah’s number. early defibrillation – through the Sub-Editor - Paul Maree implying temporary residence? When CPR is initiated immediate- use of AED. Ed Co-ordinator - Sharon Akum The Midrash provides two possibilities: (i) When G-d told him to ly on a patient who is not conscious Hatzolah has trained over 300 peo- [email protected] “dwell in the land”, His intention was that Isaac should settle in and not breathing, it greatly ple in the use of this equipment over Sports Editor - Jack Milner Israel and work it, thereby creating a habitable place. increases their chances of survival; the last three months. Crouse may [email protected] He therefore told him to “plant trees, sow seeds and set up beauti- particularly when there is early be contacted on [email protected] Books Editor - Gwen Podbrey ful orchards”. However, when in the province of the Philistines, defibrillation. or 086100101. Arts Editor - Robyn Sassen Isaac was only to sojourn temporarily and not make it a permanent [email protected] residence. Youth Editor - Alison Goldberg (ii) The word “dwell’ (sh’chon) is the root of the term Shechinah, Gardens Shul turns 170 in style [email protected] G-d’s Presence. When G-d told Isaac to “dwell” in the land, He was Cape Town correspondent asking him to create a country worthy of the Divine Presence. MOIRA SCHNEIDER Moira Schneider: 021-794-4206 These two explanations illustrate the two varieties of enterprise CAPE TOWN Pretoria correspondent that are required in the Land of Israel - the agricultural, economic PHOTOGRAPH: SUSAN SHERMAN Diane Wolfson: 082-707-9471 and cultural aspects of the country and the spiritual aspects of the Advertising - (011) 023-8160 country. WELL OVER 1 000 shul-goers [email protected] Both of these tasks are incumbent upon the Jewish inhabitants of attended the fourth anniversary of Britt Landsman: 082-292-9520 the land. However, in the modern era, these two vital avenues of set- Friday Night Live at the Gardens [email protected] tling the land were often split between two very different types of Synagogue (Cape Town Hebrew Manuela Bernstein: 082-951-3838 Jews. Congregation) last week – a double [email protected] The agricultural, economic and cultural infrastructure of the celebration, as it coincided with the Freelance Advertising Executives country was to a large extent set up by the early “chalutzim”, pio- oldest congregation in South The historic Gardens Synagogue, Marlene Bilewitz: 083-475-0288 neers, who were generally irreligious and unconcerned with the new Africa’s 170 years of existence. [email protected] built in 1905. state’s religious character. In his sermon, Rabbi Osher Adi Lew: 083-407-8034 [email protected] The spiritual infrastructure of the land was to a large extent set up Feldman, spiritual leader of the ing a backdrop. by the religious immigrants who settled in Israel decades and even congregation, referred to founder The “endless flow” of people mak- Classified Sales Charissa Newman centuries before modern Zionism. Benjamin Norden (who organised ing their way down the shul steps [email protected] These included the students and followers of both the Ba’al Shem the first minyan in sub-Saharan into the Gardens was a really inspir- Manager: Distribution Tov, the founder of the Chassidic movement and the Vilna Gaon, the Africa in the year 1841) and how ing sight, according to shul chair- Britt Landsman leader of Lithuanian Jewry, who moved to Israel in the late 18th and proud he would be to walk into the man, Philip Kawalsky. The Friday Design and layout early 19th centuries. shul now and see the thriving com- Night Live anniversaries have Frankie Matthysen These groups formed the community that later came to be known munity. become known as “the most magi- Nicole Cook as the yishuv hayashan, the Old Settlement, in Jerusalem, Zefat and After the synagogue service, con- cal” evenings and this one was no Website several other locations. There they built shuls, yeshivot and other gregants and visitors gathered in exception, he added. www.sajewishreport.co.za institutions of Torah study. the historic Company Gardens to Rounding off the festivities was a Ilan Ossendryver There were, and there continue to be, groups that fused these two enjoy a “Sushi & Blue Label”– sold-out dinner for 320 people, at IC-Creations responsibilities together, including Bnei Akiva, whose motto “Torah themed brocha in a marquee with [email protected] which comedian Nik Rabinowitz v’Avodah” (Torah combined with labour), succinctly describes their the lit-up historic synagogue form- brought the house down. Subscription enquiries philosophy of building a country based on the principles of physical Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd Tel: 0860-13-2652 work and toil and intense commitment to the Torah and its KASHRUT ALERT mitzvoth. BOARD OF DIRECTORS But despite the efforts of this organisation and others like it, Howard Feldman (Chairman), Issie Kirsh SERIES OF JUNGLE AND WEIGHLESS PRODUCTS KOSHER, PAREV (Deputy Chairman), Stan Kaplan, Israeli society continues to be fragmented and splintered into those Marlene Bethlehem, Norman Lowenthal, who “work the land” and those who study in yeshiva. The kashrut department of the Union of Orthodox’s Beth Din, has Bertie Lubner, Benjy Porter, Unfortunately, these two sides seldom see eye to eye and many announced that a number of Jungle products are now kosher and Herby Rosenberg, Howard arguments have broken out between them, often leading to hatred, parev, with or without the Beth Din logo: Jungle Energy Crunch Sackstein, Jason Valkin, Elton Muesli (Granola, Lifestyle, Nuts & Raisins, Raisin, Tropical Fruit & n. harsh words and discord. Bondi, Michael Sieff, Steven Nut) (Mehadrin). Krawitz and Denese Bloch. The challenges presented to Isaac so many thousands of years ago, continue to confound the Jewish people till today. Our job, and that The following “Weighless” products are now kosher and parev, with Advertisements and editorial copy from of all Jews, is to achieve what Isaac was commanded by G-d - to cre- or without the Beth Din logo: Weighless Biscuits (Choc Chip, Oat outside sources do not neccessarily reflect ate a beautiful country both physically and spiritually, one that is Crunch, Short Bread). WeighlessMuesli (Plain, Fruit, High Fibre Bran the views of the editors and staff. worthy of the Divine Presence. & Raisin) (Mehadrin). 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 3

cerned South Africans across the spectrum - which just shows how Is the right to know a ‘Jewish Issue’? seriously so many different con- stituencies take the issue, and that we can build consensus, and STEVEN GRUZD “As Jewish South Africans, the ourselves, we may not have access to every single citizen, and our abil- build a nation.” prospect that the freedom of the the information we need to do so.” ity and right to access informa- As the battle moves into the ON NOVEMBER 22, - dubbed “Black press that we celebrate could be He adds: “Like many communi- tion, affecting all our other rights next trench, there are many rea- Tuesday” by the media, evoking infringed is untenable,” she says. “I ties, the issues we are concerned - to housing, health, employment, sons for Jewish South Africans to “Black Wednesday” in October 1977 firmly believe this is our fight. We with are all tied up with what we do education - especially at local take note and take part. Hillel put when the apartheid government are part of the fabric of this country. and do not know.” Some examples he level. A veil of secrecy restricts it best: “If I am not for myself, banned several newspapers - mem- “This affects us - we enjoy freedom gives include who funds SA political all those rights”, she says. who will be for me? If I am only bers of the National Assembly voted to practise our religion, and we parties, particularly from the Arab Pather added that having the for myself, what am I? And if not 229 to 107, with two abstentions, to demand fair treatment, transparen- world, or the campaigns mounted SAJBD on the R2K in Gauteng now, when?” pass the controversial Protection of cy, honesty. We must treasure and against Israel in this country. had been “phenomenal” and State Information Bill (POSIB). defend those rights, for us, and for Dr Ivor Blumenthal, station man- expressed the wish that other Steven Gruzd is the senior But not without a fight. Around everyone.” ager of 101.9 Chai FM, says: “This religious communities would researcher and diplomatic liaison the country, thousands rallied to Rabbi Aharon Rose, chairman of Bill, if law, would severely restrict become more active. at the South African Jewish Board express their opposition to this clos- the SA Rabbinical Association, qual- our ability to investigate issues of “It has been a struggle in of Deputies. He represents the ing of political space. People donned ifies to an extent what kind of infor- concern to the Jewish community. It Gauteng”, she admitted. “This Board on the Gauteng Working black clothing, blacked out their pro- mation should be in the public could, for example, prevent us from campaign has created an incredi- Group of the Right to Know file pictures on Facebook and domain, but agrees that censorship asking tough questions, like how for- bly diverse coalition of con- Campaign, www.r2k.org.za Twitter, and phoned parliamentary should not extend to issues that are eign policy decisions are taken, or chief whips to raise their objections. clearly of public concern. about anti-Semitism. Questions I felt the anger and resilience in “It is a question of what is and about how much South Africa does the 200-person picket outside of what is not in the public interest”, he with Muslim states could potentially Luthuli House in Sauer Street in the says, “Jewish law - the Halacha - is be classified as state secrets.” Johannesburg CBD. Pickets were clear in its prohibition against the “We are an integral part of South staged outside Parliament in Cape dissemination of lashon hara, that African society,” comments Rabbi Town, and in Durban, Pretoria, is, malicious gossip. Robert Jacobs, acting chairman of Soweto and Vereeniging. Opposition “Consequently, it would regard the South African Centre for parties made dramatic pleas from salacious gossip as not being in the Religious Equality and Diversity the National Assembly floor. The public interest. However, informa- (SACRED), “This rather confusing story dominated headlines and air- tion relating to how the country is Bill seems antithetical to society’s waves. being run, for example on alleged best interest. This three-year struggle now corruption in government, certainly “Through SACRED, we actively moves to the National Council of is in the public interest and should encouraged our community to Provinces, then the President’s desk not be withheld.” embrace ‘Black Tuesday’ - it was a and almost inexorably to the According to Professor Anton valid, non-violent, apparent and per- Constitutional Court. But why Harber from the University of sonal choice in line with our reli- should the South African Jewish Witwatersrand’s School of gious values.” community care? Is this a “Jewish Journalism: “A lack of information, Jayshree Pather, a member of the issue”? a loss of transparency affects all R2K National Working Group says Many think it is, including Mary individuals and groups, because it that everyone, including minorities, Kluk, chairman of the SA Jewish disempowers them in relation to the should be worried about the Bill. Board of Deputies. state. And when we have to defend “If it becomes law, it will affect Ground broken in JHGC construction

ROBYN SASSEN PHOTOGRAPHS BY LEWIS LEVIN

LAST TUESDAY morning, ground was finally broken in the construction of the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre in Forest Town, on Jan Smuts Avenue, opposite the Westcliff Hotel. An ebullient Tali Nates, direc- tor of the centre, explained to the Jewish Report that after its official establishment in 2008, it is estimated earthworks will be completed by February next year, for this “very 21st century museum. manager, Gerald Leissner who is handling It is innovative on so many levels, and the fundraising, a construction team led knowing that ground has finally been bro- by Andrew Murray of Murray and Dixon ken is intimidating and wonderful at the Construction, who also worked on Circa same time.” Gallery and the Wits Art Museum, the She added that the forthcoming exhibi- project is further complemented with the tion of the Rwandan genocide is the first expertise of Western Cape designer Linda of its kind in the world. Bester, and a team of local and interna- “There is a basement to be constructed tional exhibition designers. for 55 cars and the ground needs to be lev- elled, before building can begin.” … and the construction begins, With architect Lewis Levin as project Tali Nates at the site. 4 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 UJW celebrates its glorious 80th with verve and flair

ROBYN SASSEN women in labour wards and HIV/Aids PHOTOGRAPH BY JOFFIE BERKOWITZ and tuberculosis patients. These kitchens are a part of a broader feeding A FORTNIGHT ago, arguably this country’s scheme taking into consideration the most community-focused organisation cele- challenges granny- and child-headed brated a milestone. The Union of Jewish households face. Women, established by social worker Toni Furthermore UJW supplies “comfort Saphra in 1931, celebrated 80 years with a packs” to Rape Crisis Clinics, including concert at the Victory Theatre, memorable fluffy toys when children are involved; not only artistically, but also for the moving Christmas cakes for the police; and footage of UJW’s ongoing projects. birthday cakes for residents of Arcadia, Comprising songs from Broadway musi- Selwyn Segal and Johannesburg cals, the show, choreographed by Vicky Children’s Home. Friedman and directed by Sandy Dyer and UJW has adopted three crèches in Jonathan Birin, was cast from the cream of Alexandra township, one of which South African singers: 12 performers, includ- recently qualified for government The full cast of Divas do Broadway: (back) Tarryn Sudding; Dena Kopenhager Bloch; Sivan ing Talia Kodesh, Sivan Raphaely, Shelley assistance, because of a new “wendy Raphaely; Shelley Meskin; Natasha Millar; and Debbie Fleminger. (Front) Tamzyn van Meskin, Lorri Strauss, Thando Nkosi and house” UJW donated as a sick bay. Rooyen; Lorri Strauss; Talia Kodesh; Bruce Millar; Michael Richard; Luciano Zuppa; Thando Tamzyn van Rooyen, collectively reflecting a The organisation’s trajectory is long Nkosi; Sharon Spiegel-Wagner and Andy Cohen. diversity of femininity, and not only the and rich, with the often unsung deeds of young, slim and tall. women who, over generations, have got One of the culminating events of each Panic Button Project, several months in This was no shrinking violet affair, with their (sometimes proverbial) hands dirty in UJW year is the Bobba/Zaida competition, development, gives a person, at the push of saccharine love songs. Drawing from the making a positive difference to the lives of in which, with the focused assistance of a a button, immediate contact with a central gutsier Broadway shows, like Fame; Rent; ordinary South Africans – be it in keeping social worker, a fortunate grandparent gets control room and links to Hatzolah. Chicago; Evita, the show reflected the ker- children off the streets during the long World to fly anywhere in the world to visit family As a membership drive, the footage spoke nel of UJW’s strength. Its membership does- Cup school holidays, donating snuggly pyja- they would not otherwise be able to. Last for itself. UJW National President Margot n’t comprise cringing kugels: historically, mas to kids going into foster care, building year for the first time, a bobba and a zaida - Segal, added that men had begun joining; this they are not afraid to roll up their sleeves or school libraries at cash-strapped schools, or Phil and Hannah Horwitz - got to visit their year, they launched corporate memberships. open their purses. UJW’s core mission is to teaching English or maths during education- children in Toronto. This year, the winner The evening concluded quoting Elie engage not only the Jewish community, but al crises. was a surprised Ray Meyers (84), who leaves Wiesel’s 1968 Nobel Peace Prize speech: the broader community as well. UJW raises money for the CSO, taking for Houston at the end of this month. “Our lives no longer belong to us alone. Its flagship project is Kosher Mobile care of community safety and Hatzolah, the This event was also an opportunity to They belong to those who need us desper- Meals, supplying cooked meals to elderly, medical response service which functions announce the birth of a new project. The ately.” indigent, often lonely Jews. The Friendship entirely on donations. Club also offers a means for elderly Jews to In addition to hosting talks on topics of interact. interest, and a House and Garden Circle, Ethan helps make a young girl fulfil her dream In 1960, soup kitchens were established by UJW spearheads Leora, a project which UJW. They cater for people not able to cook caters for the loan of rehabilitative medical SHIRA DRUION Renata, an orphan from Katlehong. Ethan for themselves: the poor, rape victims, equipment. asked her what her dream was and she told FITTINGLY, in line with Chabad’s Miracle him it was to be a dancer. “I want to be Drive, Rabbi Dovid Masinter was the main dancer. It’s my dream, but I just don’t mover in bringing to South Africa from the know if it’s possible.” United States, a “miracle boy”, musical Bortnick would hear of no impossibili- prodigy Ethan Bortnick, who wowed a ties and was emphatic that she do every- packed Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City last thing in her power to realise her dancing week. And a miracle dream came true for dream. He invited her onto the stage to an underprivileged South African girl. showcase her dancing talent, while accom- Ten-year-old Ethan, a pianist, composer panying her on piano. and singer of stunning talent, left the audi- Beatrice was invited backstage at the ence of well over 300 shaking their heads end of the concert for a private chat with in disbelief in his one-man show. Ethan. “She walked out of her chat, tears The concert was an endeavour of Rabbi streaming down her face, visibly moved,” Masinter’s outreach project: “Grow Your says Eric Ithikowitz from the Umoja Life”. The project has as its aim the uplift- Foundation. Umoja helps promote skills in ment of thousands of young South underprivileged communities. It is spon- Africans who are in need of inspiration soring six months of dancing classes for and guidance to fulfil their dreams. Beatrice. Masinter ensured that over 300 under- An ecstatic Beatrice was extremely privileged children were able to attend the grateful to Ethan and her jubilation at concert, many of whom were orphans. The being afforded the opportunity to dance children were allocated front rows seats was evident to all. and treated to a performance from Bortnick has also agreed to be the offi- Bortnick that was fit for the stars. cial ambassador for the “Grow Your Life” Young Ethan dished out words of programme. encouragement and hope to the many that Rabbi Masinter has also created a series looked to him for motivation. He also han- of “Grow Your Life” books, aiming to dled several questions from the audience, empower young South Africans to take the one of which was from 12-year-old Beatrice steps to a brighter tomorrow.

Trevor Stamelman 082 608 0168 Henry Goldschmidt 082 347 8044 Geoff Lees 082 923 8317 Tel: (011) 885-3742 I [email protected] www.stamelmanproperties.co.za ‘Extraordinary Service, Extraordinary Trust’

GLENHAZEL SYDENHAM • Hazelwood: 1 bed, 1 bath apartment. R550 000 • 4 recep, 4 bed, 1 1/2 bath, garden and more. R1 mil - • Hazelwood: 1 bed, 1 bath apartment. R550 000 - SOLD SOLD • 3/4 recep, 5 bed, 2 bath, cottage, large garden, pool, walk • 4 recep, 5 bed, 3 bath, mod kitchen, income-producing to Yeshiva. R3 999 000 cottage, pool and more. R3,2 mil • 3 recep, 3 bed, study, mod kitchen, large garden, pool, 2 • 3 recep, 4 bed, 3 bath, modern, large garden and pool. R2 mil cottages. R2,2 mil • 3 recep , 4 bed, 3 bath, cottage, pool and secure parking. • 2 bed, 1 bath, simplex apartment. R900 000 - SOLD R1,4 mil • Dunhurst Estate: 2 recep, 2 1/2 baths, garden, modern • 4 recep, 4 bed, 3 bath, cottage, pool, garden. R1,9 mil duplex. R1,2 mil • 3 recep, 3 bed, 2 bath, cottage, garden. R 1 mil • 3 recep, 4 bed, 2 bath, pool, garden, cottage. R2,2 mil - SOLD HIGHLANDS NORTH CHELTONDALE • 3 recep, 3 bed, 2 bath, pool, garden and cottage. • 2 bed, 2 bath, garden simplex with pool and 24-hr R999 000 - SOLD security in complex. R850 000 - SOLD • 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 recep, garden, pool. R700 000 • 2 bed, 1 bath simplex in a secure complex with pool. • 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 recep, enclosed balcony, secure complex R750 000 with pool. R850 000

TO VIEW THESE AND ALL OUR PROPERTIES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.STAMELMANPROPERTIES.CO.ZA 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 5 Harold Rudolph - truly a gentleman and a scholar UP TO 50% OFF MANY SUMMER OBITUARY AND PHOTOGRAPH BY SUZANNE Harold led the first South African delegation BELLING to participate in the March of the Living in ITEMS. Poland and the Rudolphs subsequently went DESCRIBED as the epito- to Lithuania to research their roots. me of a “mensch” by polit- In his mid-fifties he survived a heart attack WELL WORTH A VISIT ical, legal and community and said at the time he realised the fragility colleagues and the origi- of life, resolving to live it to the full in spite of AT OUR NEW STORE. nal “Mr Nice Guy” by suffering from Parkinson’s disease in later family and friends, Pro- years. He ran a small legal practice from his OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY fessor of Law Harold home In Athol and had business interests in 9AM - 4:30 PM Rudolph (pictured) died in Fochville, North West Province. Johannesburg last week Wednesday (No- Last Friday he was buried in Ra’anana, 9 Grafton Avenue vember 16) after a tragic fall. He had beenb in Israel, where he was to have made his home. cnr Roxborough Ave, poor health for a long time. He was 64. Rudolph leaves his wife, sons, Ryan The accident occurred only two weeks’ (Australia), Wayne and Ari (Israel) and Craighall Park prior to the Rudolphs – Harold and Reva - set- Joshua (Johannesburg), eight grandchildren tling in Israel. and a sister, Suzanne Glasenberg. Tel: (011) 447-0337 At 38 he was the youngest-ever mayor of Johannesburg in the city’s centenary year in 1986, when he was fond of recalling he and Reva attended approximately 1 400 functions and he delivered some 800 speeches. On completion of his mayoral term, he turned down the offer of a diplomatic post in the United States from the Department of Foreign Affairs with terms allowing him, as a member of an opposition party, complete freedom of speech and the right to criticise apartheid. Essentially a family man, he called one of his famous “conferences” with his wife and children and declined the offer as his boys disagreed and “they are a top priority in my life”, he said at the time. Rudolph was first elected to the Jo- hannesburg City Council in March 1972, coinciding with his admission as an attorney and his upcoming marriage to Reva – which was postponed because of the timing and his bride-to-be became his election agent in the interim. Rudolph was elected for several terms, serving a total of 22 years and nine months on the Council. He was awarded the title of Alderman in 1987. Born in Johannesburg, he matriculated from Roosevelt High and received BA, LLB and LLM degrees from the University of the Witwatersrand. In 1984 he was appointed associate profes- sor at Wits Law School, following his previ- ous year’s sabbatical with his family in Israel, where he did research for his thesis, published as a book, “Security, Terrorism and Torture”. lt was a comparative legal analysis of the rights of political detainees in South Africa, Northern Ireland and Israel. Rudolph was also well-known in Jewish communal affairs, having served on the SA Jewish Board of Deputies for 12 years, including chairmanship of the then Transvaal Council, as a national vice-chair- man and country communities chairman. He was on the editorial boards of Jewish Affairs and the former Jewish Voice. He lived for many years in the suburb of Emmarentia, where he served on the council of the Hebrew Congregation, including a term as chairman. He was also presented with an award for writing the first legislation for the control of smoking in the former Bophuthatswana. At the invitation of the Israeli organisers, AROUND THE WORLD NEWS IN BRIEF DANCE GROUP CANCELS OVER REMOVAL OF ISRAEL REFERENCES

MELBOURNE - A Melbourne-based Israeli dance group has refused to perform at a folk festival to protest the organisers' decision to remove references to their being Israeli. The Machol Israeli Dancing Club was scheduled to appear at the Multicultural Folk Dance Festival in Mansfield, north- east of Melbourne, last Sunday. The festi- val included Aboriginal, Chinese, Irish, English, Lebanese, Armenian, Ukrainian and Hungarian folk dances. But organisers removed the word “Israeli” and instead named the dancers as the Machol Group and described them as a Jewish dance group, the local Jewish web- site J Wire reported.(JTA) 6 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 SOCIAL SCENE COMMUNITY BUZZ LIONEL SLIER 082-444-9832, fax: 011-440-0448, JJMC lives up to its full [email protected] JOHANNESBURG

From Bennie Puterman:

“This is a true story! About 30 years ago, I was a deserved reputation chorister at the Jeppe Shul. I never travelled on Yom Kippur, so I found a hotel nearby to sleep STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY RITA LEWIS over. “There was this middle-aged gentleman just out THE JOHANNESBURG Jewish Male from Europe who was the ‘Baal Koreah’ and ‘Baal Choir's 26th Annual Concert in the Linder Shachris’. I told him about the hotel where I was Auditorium in Parktown recently, was - sleeping over and he went to make arrangements again - a big hit with the audience. to stay there. Its complement of just under 30 sin- “The rates there were very reasonable. He told gers started off with a rousing Shalom the booking clerk that he did not want breakfast as Aleichem medley of songs which are it was to be a day of fasting. The clerk was generally sung before the meal on Friday adamant that that was the price and it was not nights. negotiable. The gentleman was very upset and The arrangement was done by the asked me what he should do. I told him not to choir’s musical director and accompanist worry about the breakfast! Evelyn Green and choir chairman Russel “Later, I found out that he had got out of bed Lurie. very early in the morning (05:00) and had quietly This year's guest artist was South slipped out through the back door. He was scared African-born Steven Leas, who flew into that the hotel staff would catch him and force him South Africa especially for the event. to have the breakfast - after all he was paying for Leas, who has been based in London for bed and breakfast!” quite a number of years, has made a name for himself in musical circles - including PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA having sung in the presence of Queen Elizabeth. David Sandler is a former Arcadian now living in Evelyn Green was joined by a five piece Perth, Western Australia. He has collected stories musical ensemble, soloists chazzanim Ezra Chaim Menachem and Selma Bakst with Sheila and Selwyn Leas, with their son, and published three books on the children of Sher and Chilly Chrysler, as well as Lurie guest artist, Steven. Arcadia Orphanage in Johannesburg and Oran- and Mark Shapiro. gia Orphanage in Cape Town. Raconteur Helen Heldenmuth, with her tremendous void in the Jewish They consisted of memories and anecdotes sent spontaneous ad-libbing and repartee, musical world – especially in in by people who had lived there and also from splendidly fulfilled the role of narrator, an South Africa. descendants of former children there. The books addition to the choir's normal format and Since then the choir has fea- were all very successful and well received. one which proved to be a very successful tured in concerts both locally innovation. and abroad, singing with many From David Sandler: The theme of this year's concert was, in renowned chazzanim who are the words of Lurie, "a kaleidoscope, reflect- household names in the world of “I am now working on two further projects, from ing the music and songs of the Festivals, Jewish music. Lithuania and Latvia to South Africa and beyond Shabbat and the High Holy Days". Recently, the choir was invit- “I am collecting the family histories for a book I With this well chosen programme - with ed to Germany to participate in will PG compile. The family histories should a somewhat "lighter" theme than usual - it the Louis Lewandowski Festi- include details of their history in Lithuania or was easy for many audience members to val Choral Festival in Berlin, Latvia and include photos. identify with the pieces, which included where the "Grand Concert" “It should relate what the family (the ancestors) specially arranged medleys of songs from takes place in December in the did and where they lived in Lithuania, the journey Pesach, Yom Kippur, Chanukah and other precincts of the newly-rebuilt to South Africa and where they settled and what festivals, as well as other auspicious Rykestrasse Synagogue, which they did in their early days in South Africa. Jewish occasions. can seat 1 200 people. “I am interested mainly in the older history, the choir performed for the first time at The shul was destroyed by the with a very brief summary of the family’s current the Linder Auditorium in 1985 as a tribute Nazis during the Second World Roni Lea and members of the choir with Rabbi Ari history and whereabouts. to the memory of Chazzan Johnny Gluck War, but was restored in the early Kievman and Aubrey Gamsu, who prepare to “Please write in if you have this family informa- zt"l, whose untimely passing left a 2000s. blow the shofar. tion and want it to be included in the proposed book. Email: [email protected]”

BRANDFORT

From Betty Levin (cont):

“C R Swart was State President of South Africa from 1961 to 1967. He had a farm, De Aap, in the Brandfort district, where his daughter Dalena Visser and her husband farmed. “One day Dalena came into Alma’s Jewellers and said that she was looking to buy a menorah. I was very surprised and asked her why. She replied that she had made a study of the Jewish Festival of Light... She wanted a menorah that was at least four feet high. I told her that the only place where she could get such a menorah was in Israel. “A few weeks later she appeared in the shop again and told me that she was going to Israel for two months. On her return she came into the shop and informed me that she had purchased two Choir Chairman Russel Lurie; accom- menorahs which she had brought along to show panist Evelyn Green; narrator Helen me. Heldenmuth; and guest artist Steven Pine Street Shul's chazzan and “She had also bought a record of Hebrew songs Leas (behind). Dr Tzipra Budnitski and Maureen Kramer. soloist, Ezra Sher, with his daughter. and could speak some Hebrew as she had spent time on an ulpan. “I was so impressed that I asked her whether she would be prepared to give a talk at the Bloemfontein Women’s Zionist League. She did so and a most agreeable success it was, with people of all denominations attending. “Dalena ended with a recording of Hava Negila and asked everyone to join her in dancing the hora.”

From: Naomi Bloch:

“I read Betty Levin’s reminiscences on Brandfort with interest. I was wondering if Betty has any photographs of the Brandfort cemetery - the shul and perhaps even of Reverend Batlan and his wife? Did she perhaps know Rev Batlan personal- ly? “She can e-mail me at [email protected]” Adele Rogoff with Geraldine Klaff. Cecily Isaacson with Hymie and Ethne Altman. 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 7 ADVERTORIAL Magnificent sectional title retirement opportunity in Cape Town, backed by specalised care

support and friendship that has evolved. The first two An artist’s impression of Palm Royale, the iconic Residents are privileged to host private functions and luxurious third apartment block at Oasis of five star quality at the most affordable prices. Retirement Resort. 58 beautifully appointed “What amazes people is that the costs of all apartment blocks apartments with magnificent views are being these facilities and the beautiful environment are offered for sale under sectional title. covered by such affordable levies,” says Cindy at Oasis Sheard, who heads the team of dedicated sales agents. “The monthly newsletter Oasis Nexus reflects Retirement Resort the varied and busy life of the Oasis community”. Retirees are advised to buy into a resort with the best possible medical back-up and facilities. at Century City, Oasis Care Centre is a modern, sophisticated facility within the resort. The Care Centre offers Assisted Living Life Rights packages for purchase Cape Town, are with fixed living levies as well as rental care packages. The long-term Frail Care section provides more almost sold out dedicated care while the Alzheimer’s & Dementia wing affords patients a bright, modern and the develop- environment. A further specialist service is the provision of sub-acute step-down care licenced by the Department of Health and with a Board of ers have launched Palm Royale offers choices ranging from garden run secure resort that encourages retirees to live Health Funders of SA PR Number. apartments to spacious “houses in the sky” that their lives to the full.” “Patients receive quality, outcome-based care measure up to 237 m2, excluding balconies. Oasis is set in a luxury environment of gar- provided by a multi-disciplinary team and enjoy Palm Royale, an R60m in sales have already been signed up or dens and ponds. The world class Club features a single en-suite rooms with DSTV,” says Lizzie are at “document stage”. 25 metre heated indoor pool, sauna, steam Brill, the energetic Care Centre Manager. Owen Futeran, the developers’ executive room, aerobics and gym areas, library, bridge Kosher food may be arranged for sub-acute iconic addition to director, confirms that prices of existing apart- room, restaurant and coffee bar, big screen TV patients on short-term stays in the Care Centre ments will be raised soon as demand for the room, beautifully appointed pool/snooker room and Oasis is not far from the Milnerton Shul. remaining two-bedroom apartments in Palm and lounges - all built around the palms and Oasis Retirement Resort offers the most com- the sectional title Grove begins to outstrip availability in that size fountains at the core of this true oasis. prehensive and attractive retirement options… and price range. In the next development phase a spacious new plus all the care you need. offering at this “The market appreciates what Century City venue to cater for larger functions, as well as a For apartment enquiries, call Cindy Sheard offers, having been voted one of the most desir- new outside covered deck area with views over (021) 528-7310 or 082-495-7168 and for Care able residential precincts in South Africa. ponds and gardens, will be added to the Club. Centre enquiries call Lizzie Brill (021) 528-7301 luxury resort. Furthermore, Oasis itself is an established, well- A major attraction is the sense of community, or 084-952-5394. 8 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 November 2011 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS Where do we stand? Protection of Information Bill: JEWS SHOULD be concerned about the Protection of State Information Bill, both as Jews and South Africans. The Bill on Tuesday after- noon, passed, as expected, the vote in the National A Torah perspective Assembly where the ANC with its huge majority instructed its MPs to vote according to the party line. CHIEF RABBI WARREN GOLDSTEIN Law give a number of instructions when it After going through the parliamentary motions, comes to charity collections. Two motiva- it is expected that the Bill will be signed into law SOUTH AFRICA HAS been consumed with tions are given for these laws: one is to pre- by President Zuma - and then it is bound to head acrimonious debates surrounding the vent corruption, and the other is to prevent for the Constitutional Court, where it will face the Protection of Information Bill. As the the appearance of corruption, as the verse real litmus test. Jewish community, we need to look to the states: “You shall be clean before G-d and Jews don’t have to go far back in our history to Torah’s approach to these debates. Israel” (Numbers 32:22). remember living in repressive societies where Judaism is not only about religious serv- For example, the managers of a soup civil liberties, including the right of appropriate ices, it is also G-d’s blueprint for every kitchen which has surplus food, must sell access to state information, were absent - the aspect of life and society, and is relevant for the food and use the money for the benefit USSR and Germany, for example, where not only all times and all places, as Rabbi of the poor. They may only sell it to other the general populace was repressed, but Jews Mordechai Pinchas Teitz of Elizabeth New people and not to themselves so as to pre- were specific targets. We live today in the incredi- Jersey once said: “The Torah speaks in the vent the abuse of power. ble achievement our South African democracy is, language of tomorrow.” The Code of Jewish Law requires that based on our progressive Constitution. Let us look at this from a different per- after money is collected for public use, a of your house and do not place blood in We understand that in any society certain infor- spective. “Do not commit adultery” is one full account of how much money was your house,” says the Torah mation, such as on genuine state security, must be of the famous Ten Commandments. What raised and how it was used, must be made (Deuteronomy, 22:8). kept out of the public domain. But in a true is less known is how Judaism protects this available to the public. This is based on the The purpose of a railing is to prevent democracy, the mechanism for guarding this commandment; the Halacha says that not Talmud which points to the precedent accidents from happening; a modern-day secrecy cannot be exploited. only is the actual act of adultery prohibit- Moses set, as recorded in the Book of application is a pool fence. If we have pre- The public’s right to receive information that ed, but so is anything which may lead to it. Exodus: cautions and safety measures to prevent might be hidden for nefarious reasons - such as The commandments need protection, or, Moses collected gold, silver and other physical accidents - such as the many political and short-term gain or to cover up fraud more accurately, we human beings need valuable items for the purpose of con- traffic laws - surely we need precautions and corruption - is fundamental. And the more so protection from ourselves. Thus, Jewish structing the Tabernacle. Upon completion and safety measures to prevent moral in our country, which spawned the secretive, cen- law prohibits a man and woman other than of the project, he gave the people a full accidents. sorious system of apartheid, where so much was immediate next of kin (eg spouse, siblings account as to how much was collected and Consequently, we should build our hidden. and parents) from being alone together in a how exactly it was used. South African society with the view of Jews, along with other South Africans, breathed room to which nobody else has access. In Temple times, the priests who han- making it as safe as possible, physically a sigh of relief in 1994 when apartheid officially In Hebrew this is called the law of dled donated money were not allowed to and morally. ended and our democracy was born. Are we now yichud, meaning “seclusion”. A practical wear clothing with pockets, or even shoes, All of the institutions of our country going backwards to an apartheid-era mindset? application of this is if a man and a woman in order to prevent theft, or even the suspi- which guard against abuse of power, The same kind of repression just in a different are staying late at the office and everyone cion of it. need to be strengthened: the independ- guise? else has gone home, it is regarded as a What does all this have to do with South ence of the judiciary, the oversight People in the political opposition, media and temptation to commit adultery and must Africa today? We have a duty to create a capacity of Parliament, the freedom of civil society agree that most of the Bill is well- be avoided. morally safe society which protects against the media and the vibrancy of multi- crafted and sensible. The draft submitted to the Adultery is the betrayal of shared inti- corruption and wrongdoing, not because party democracy, because these institu- National Assembly incorporates many changes macy; Jewish law recognises that this can we are more corrupt than other countries, tions create a safer society for us all. The suggested by these groups. But the lack of protec- manifest in or result from even flirtatious but rather because we, like all other more checks and balances, the more safe- tion for those who obtain and reveal state infor- speech or actions, and therefore instituted human beings, are prone to the temptation guards, the safer and more ethical will mation in the public interest, puts it in the catego- safeguards. Thus, Judaism also requires of doing wrong. our society be. ry of laws more suited to a repressive society than modesty in dress as well as in the way men Therefore, on the issue of the Protection Corruption destroys the capacity of one intent on protecting and nourishing its and women speak to one another. of Information Bill, we should err on the the State to deliver basic services to the democracy. What is the rationale behind these pro- side of caution: it must be written in a way most vulnerable members of society. It seems puzzling that the ANC is pushing this tective measures? G-d created human that protects against corruption, and Only upon sound, ethical foundations legislation through with such crude muscle. beings with free will; we have within us the against the appearance of it. This means will we be able to build a truly great Corruption has become so endemic in our country desire to do good as well as the desire to do that the power to uncover corruption must country. that top ANC cadres are raising alarm bells. bad. There is a constant struggle within be strengthened as much as possible. For Only by ensuring the proper gover- Where are the voices of protest within the party each of us between walking the path of example, the debates around the “public nance of South Africa will all its citizens about this Bill, who must see that it is taking us goodness, morality and decency, and interest” clause can easily be resolved by live in a prosperous, equitable society in backwards, rather than forwards? We should all betraying these values. including it in the proposed legislation so which human suffering is alleviated and be concerned and prepared to speak out. Former There are many temptations that have that journalists and whistle-blowers can be in which all have the opportunity to fulfil Minister of Intelligence Ronnie Kasrils, who in his the power to lure us away from the right protected when uncovering corruption, their dreams. time mooted such a Bill, opposes the present Bill, path. Judaism teaches that we need to cre- creating a greater deterrence against cor- The debate around the Protection of as does Nobel Laureate in literature Nadine ate a morally safe environment; this is ruption and making for a morally safer Information Bill is, therefore, crucial to Gordimer. Even Cosatu - a member of the govern- achieved by taking precautions to prevent society. the question of who we are and what ing alliance - opposes the Bill. situations of temptation from arising. This is not different from applying safety kind of society we want to build: ethical- And does the ANC not understand that in this There are many other examples in measures to protect against physical dan- ly safer or more dangerous? The answer Internet age, Facebook, Twitter and WikiLeaks, to Halacha. The Talmud and Code of Jewish gers. “You shall build a railing on the roof is obvious. name but a few, make a mockery of attempts to control information which should be public? This Bill could also have the result of driving the infor- mation flow underground. Once it goes there, it is A national museum of the Jewish people afoot more likely that truly harmful information which is not in the public interest may also be revealed. FOR MORE than five years, Jewish Along with other South Africans, if Jews don’t movers and shakers in Washington have join their protest with those who are opposing the been pushing for a national museum of Bill, we can’t squeal later. Ultimately, this Bill is the Jewish people, focusing on religion, about intimidation - in our democratic South tradition and culture. Africa, we are not supposed to be subject to that. Led by Ori Soltes, former curator of What about our communal Jewish leadership Washington’s B’nai B’rith Klutznick and Jewish institutions? Do they have a mandate Museum, one of the primary groups to take a public position on this national issue? submitting proposals for the museum Some would say “yes”, that this is a democratic comprises Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel, issue which affects them and everyone else. violinist Itzhak Perlman and members Others will say “no” - that their role is to focus of the Snyder family of Potomac, among inwards, on the Jewish community and its needs. others. We can comfortably say that the overwhelming Soltes, Goldman professorial lecturer majority of South African Jews would be vehe- in theology and fine arts at Georgetown mently opposed to this legislation in its current University, is excited by the fact that form. Daniel Libeskind - whose work includes Can Jewish institutions afford to remain silent? the Jewish Museum in Berlin, the During apartheid, major Jewish institutions Danish Jewish Museum in Copenhagen refrained from publicly criticising the system, and and the Wohl Centre at Bar-Ilan they even today still have to defend themselves University in Israel - has designed the about the implications of that silence. project. Today there is no danger like then, when gov- "His enthusiasm for this project is ernment-inspired anti-Semitism made many Jews boundless, both because of his interest who reviled the system fearful of speaking out. in the museum and because it is his first So, are we willing to speak out? Or afraid of irri- Washington-based project”, Soltes tating the government of the day? says."I'm thrilled with the design” - pic- Irish political philosopher Edmund Burke, who tured here as a rendering - “because it lived in the 1700s, is credited with saying: “All that will be not only be an architectural mar- is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good vel, enhancing that area of Pennsylvania men do nothing.” Avenue, but will also work well as a

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DANIEL LIBESKIND STUDIO DANIEL COURTESY PHOTOGRAPH museum and as a Jewish museum." 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 9

OPINION AND ANALYSIS - FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS AROUND THE WORLD Maybe the glass is NEWS IN BRIEF BIDEN MEETS WITH JEWISH LEADERS ON POLLARD

WASHINGTON -- Vice President Joseph (Barack) Obama was considering clemen- half full after all Biden has met with several Jewish cy, but I told him, ‘Over my dead body are American leaders to discuss the case of we going to let him out before his time’." convicted spy for Israel, Jonathan Pollard. Jewish organisational leaders from AFTER DECADES of anxiously looking out During Monday evening's meeting, across the political and religious spec- for a possible resurgence of anti-Semitism BARBARIC Biden reportedly listened to the seven trum have called on successive presidents from the white far-right, world Jewry has American Jewish leaders, who made a to grant clemency to Pollard, a US Navy belatedly recognised that the most serious case for the severity of the sentence and civilian analyst who was sentenced to life threat it now faces emanates from a broad YAWP the support of US political leaders for in prison in 1987 for spying for Israel. leftist-Islamist-Third World alliance. David Saks clemency, Ynet reported. In recent months, Obama has received a That alliance may be an informal one, but is not less real for that. Indeed, its very The newspaper did not name the partic- flood of clemency appeals on behalf of amorphous, unofficial nature makes it all ipants. Biden promised last month that he Pollard from members of Congress, former the harder to effectively confront. would meet with Jewish leaders on the US government officials and Israeli officials. effective as to at least raise serious ques- Pollard case after telling rabbis at a polit- On Monday, Pollard entered his 27th The target of the alliance is not the tions about the fairness of the whole ical meeting in Florida: “President year in prison in the United States. (JTA) Jewish religion, nor the individual Jew sin- process. gled out by virtue of his race/ethnicity, but Then there was the embarrassing col- the Jewish national collective as represent- lapse of the case that Israel’s naval block- ed by the State of Israel. ade of Gaza was illegal, together with the The aim is not to oppose specific Israeli accusation that it had, without provocation, policies like settlements or security barri- brutally attacked a peaceful humanitarian ers but to render Israel’s very existence flotilla. untenable through isolating it on the inter- It was a UN commission that later found national stage. not only that the blockade was legal under On the macro level, the campaign is international law, but that the lion’s share largely pursued through the UN, whose of that bloody confrontation should be structures are continually subverted for borne by the flotilla’s organisers. purposes of undermining Israel. Notorious This international backlash further examples include the 2001 World Con- explains why a follow-up flotilla initiative ference Against Racism in Durban, the turned out to be an expensive and embar- International Court of Justice ruling rassing fiasco, fizzling out with none of the against the West Bank security barrier and ships even being allowed to leave the the attempted judicial lynching by the European mainland. grotesquely named UN Human Rights At the time of writing, it would now seem Council following the 2008-9 Gaza incursion that the Palestinian bid to receive formal (ie the Goldstone Commission). UN recognition as a state without conclud- At the micro level, the demonisation and ing with Israel, is running aground. Here, delegitimisation process is in its way even Israeli and Diaspora diplomatic efforts more menacing because of its being waged have undoubtedly played a critical part. along so broad and diverse a front. One sees Locally, boycottists also have less to show it surfacing more or less continually in the for their efforts than the noise they have universities, trade unions, in the trade, cul- made would lead one to expect. In the Ben- tural, sporting, environmental and inter- Gurion matter, they gained a symbolic vic- faith spheres – actually, no area is off limits. tory, but in practice, the collaborative scien- Every initiative that involves Israel, now tific project they were trying to jettison, risks being targeted by those denouncing was not only salvaged, but expanded upon. any kind of engagement with the racist Cape Town Opera performed in Israel as Zionist entity. scheduled, and the three Israeli plays were All this is happening as much in South performed, to packed houses, at the Hilton Africa as elsewhere. Recent examples in- Festival. Most recently, the Russell Tri- clude the anti-Ben-Gurion University agita- bunal on Palestine was put on the back foot tion at the University of Johannesburg (aca- and kept there by a well-conceived and exe- demic); campaigns against the sale of Israeli cuted media campaign. products, especially those made in the West All this suggests that world Jewry does Bank (economic); attempts to prevent Cape have the capacity to fight back. It would be Town Opera from performing in Israel and well to take heart from this because, opposition to including three Israeli plays on notwithstanding the setbacks suffered, the this year’s Hilton Arts Festival programme campaign to expel the Jewish State from (cultural); and post-Gaza calls by the Muslim the community of nations, is sure to contin- Judicial Council for the Chief Rabbi to be ue unabated. expelled from the National Religious Leaders Forum (interfaith). So organised, focused, numerous and well-funded are the other side, that it is easy to feel sometimes that fighting it is futile. The image that comes to mind is of poor Chaim Yankel frantically plugging as many holes in the dyke with his fingers and toes while all around him more and more leaks are appearing. And yet, events of the past year in particular make me wonder if there is not more cause for optimism than we realise. I suggest this because a closer look at how things end up playing out as opposed to the bluster and fanfare that announces their arrival, one finds that the delegitimisers have not been having things all their own way. Over time, quite a number of their more ambitious campaigns have ended up going nowhere, sometimes failing altogether. It is also evident that world Jewry and Israel, after their abject “rabbit caught in the headlights” behaviour of the earlier years of this century, are beginning to hit back far more effectively on the diplomatic and PR front. At last, the denouncers are find- ing themselves denounced - and they don’t like it. What have some of these setbacks been? One has certainly been the petering out of the campaign to criminalise Israel for Operation Cast Lead. Here, Richard Goldstone’s unprecedented about-face regarding key aspects of his commission’s report, was a critical blow to the latter’s credibility, but even prior to this the Jewish counter-campaign had been sufficiently 10 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 ARTS MATTERS TAPESTRY COMPILED BY ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE ROBYN SASSEN Call 084-319-7844 or [email protected] at least one Wald’s angel week prior to publication

Artisan Contemporary flew and quietly Gallery, Durban: “Memories”, curated by Sue Greenberg celebrating 29 landed in gallery years, until December 24, (031) 312-4364. David Krut Projects, Sandringham Central Johannesburg: “Pretty World”, paintings by Robyn Penn, until February, Gardens (011) 447-0627. Artificier Abe Shnaier with his assistant Shane Frometsun, posing between the restored angel’s wings designed by Herman Wald, which Fugard Theatre, District ROBYN SASSEN Six: “London Road”, with Shnaier made for the Berea Synagogue in 1967. PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED Robyn Scott and Ntombi IN 1967, renowned sculp- Makhutshi, until December tor Herman Wald designed “One of the greatest artists of to the other.” (The wings were hung at the 17, (021) 461-4554. a massive pair of wings, them all from antiquity, Bezalel, height of opening of the choir room above the out of sheet copper, for was approached to make a car- Aron Kodesh, from which the choir would Foxwood House Theatre, Berea Shul, in Johan- riage for the Covenant, and he sing at moments of high religious intensity). Houghton: On November 26, nesburg. They flanked a did the carving of the Cherubim “Quick as a flash, Rabbi Alloy offered the “An Evening with Michael de plaque depicting the Ten in which the Covenant was car- rejoinder: ‘Indeed: That is most people’s prob- Pinna”; on November 27, Commandments, installed ried. I attempted to reinterpret lem!’” December 4 and 11, “Yanagi”, above the ark. the concept Bezalel used.” He Two and a half decades passed. Demo- a shadow puppetry show, “It took four months to explains the use of wings only as graphics saw the Jewish community moving (011) 486-0935. complete,” said artificier a means of respecting the Bib- north; shuls in areas like Berea, Hillbrow and Abe Shnaier, who made lical injunction not to use the Yeoville were deconsecrated and were eventu- Goodman Gallery: In the wings. “We, the techni- The angel’s wings around the human form in art. ally used for other repurposes. Parkwood, William cians behind the project, Aron Kodesh in the Berea “They were huge,” Shnaier “The wings went from pillar to post: they Kentridge’s “Other Faces” signed our names on the Shul, in their heyday. PHOTO- adds of the wings. “When they were sent to Oxford Shul and then to Pine ends December 23, (011) 788- back in koki.” GRAPH COURTESY WWW.HERMAN- were installed, it was a time Street Shul. And then they seemed to vanish.” 1113. In Woodstock, David Wald (1906 - 1970) created WALD.COM when the community was led by Research toward a retrospective of work by Goldblatt’s “Portraits”, ends many iconic works in giants: Rabbi Yirmiyahu Alloy, Wald, curated by his son, Louis, helped December 10, (021) 462-7579. South Africa, including the Memorial to the Chazzan Shlomo Mandel and choirmaster unearth them. “I traced them to the basement Six Million, in West Park Cemetery. On a web- Gus Levy. “ of Sandringham Gardens, eventually,” said Joburg Theatre, site dedicated to his work, he is quoted: “It is He chuckles: “I remember a moment when a Shnaier. Braamfontein: In the Nelson no simple matter to reconstruct a conception snippet of a conversation between Levy and • A major retrospective of work by Herman Mandela, “Cinderella”, until derived from Biblical days, when the Chazzan Mandel was overhead: ‘I can’t see Wald opens at the SA Jewish Museum in Cape December 30. In the Fringe, Covenant was carried in the desert. you, the angel’s wings are in my way’, one said Town on February 19, 2012, (021) 465-1546. “Monkey Nuts” until December 4. In the People’s Theatre, “Beauty and the Beast”, until December 24, A worthy tribute to memory of Percy Baneshik (011) 877-6800. Concert: The Percy Baneshik Memorial scherzando a narrative quality was added to this. E minor, Opus 38. Already here, the earliest Market Theatre, Newtown: Concert 2011 (Linder) In the Adagio we find a memorable juxtaposi- among his duo sonatas, the composer’s sensitive- In the Laager, Higginson’s Artists: Peter Bruns (‘cello) and Annagret tion of Lutheran chorale and impassioned recita- ly worked-out keyboard sonorities as well as “Girl in the Yellow Dress” Kuttner (piano) tive. Here an expansive approach with a darker changes of register in the ‘cello (although most is until December 18. In the Programme: Music by Mendelssohn, Schubert intensity created a strong, deeply felt effect, after scored for the instrument’s “safe” lower range), Barney Simon, “Smiles and and Brahms which the finale, Molto allegro e vivace, was made its mark. The pianist sounded a bit too duti- Cries” by Siyabonga Radebe, energetic to the hilt. ful and monochromatic and one wondered if she until December 4, (011) 832- REVIEWED BY PAUL BOEKKOOI Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata in A minor, D has both the strength and temperament for 1641. 821 received a more romantic approach, with Brahms. ONE COULD confidently say that freer rhythms and the ‘cello vibrato more promi- While this impression lasted during the open- Montecasino, Fourways: In Mendelssohn’s music has a great expressive nence. This duo strongly interprets the overall ing Allegro non troppo, one could wallow in the Studio, “My Mother’s range and can make a strongly Romantic impres- character of a movement or section, but never to Bruns’ lean, searing, and intense rather than Italian, My Father’s Jewish sion, but somehow performances of his work the detriment of the music’s emotional effect. In dirge-like approach to it. The duo respected the and I’m in Therapy” until which are able to convey a brightness and elation the Adagio, for example, the stark, unadorned classical connotations in the Allegretto quasi January 8. In the Pieter of spirit, reflect a very important part of the conclusion held a deep melancholy, which a more minuetto - especially in the nostalgic trio which Toerien, “Menopause the composer’s musical character as well. outgoing, expressive approach would have was performed in a graciously flowing manner. Musical”, until January 8 and This duo, performing in the JMS’s final con- obscured. This formed an admirable launching pad for “Beautiful Creatures” until cert for the year last Saturday evening, fully cap- The pianist could dynamically have been more the fiery, rapidly paced fugue, resembling the December 17, (011) 511-1988. tured the bright, lyrical and spirited side. involved in the opening movement (things soon mirror fugues of Bach’s Art of Fugue. It can eas- Mendelssohn’s ‘Cello Sonata No 2 in D major, turned for the better), but it was the ‘cellist who ily sound pedantic or dryly literal. It did not. National Children’s Opus 58, opens Allegro assai vivace - a nearly took the limelight with his sound quality - a bur- The encore was one of Mendelssohn’s “Songs Theatre, Parktown: lightning tempo. Peter Bruns and Annagret nished tone, grainy and irresistibly plangent up Without Words”. Here the interplay between “Aladdin”, until December 23, Kuttner, his wife, gave us a sense of a swift, never at the top - combined with supple, sensitive ‘cello and piano was intense. Through Bruns’ (011) 484-1584. interrupted or delayed flow, the piano semiqua- phrasing. wonderfully vocal way of modulating his tone, vers flashing past, played with a light, precise Of the two ‘cello sonatas Brahms composed, one did not miss the human voice, neither the Old Mutual Theatre on the touch. In the second movement, Allegretto Bruns and Kuttner presented us with the No 1 in text. Square, Sandton: “Deeply Fried”, with Daniel Friedman, until December 3. Friday an eyelid and in this production he surpasses In this way, the sport develops into more than lunchtime concerts on FELDMAN himself as Billy Beane, general manager of the just a game, it becomes a revolution where old November 25 features Trio 2002 Oakland Athletics, who is blessed with an school traditions are challenged. Venato; on December 2, Miro ON FILM acute analytical mind which he puts to good The turmoil that unfolds places Beane in the Chakaryan (violin), Susan Peter Feldman use. crosshairs of those who believe he is ripping the Mouton (‘cello) and Anneline Director Miller, drawing inspiration from a heart and soul out of the game. But he persists Ball (piano), (011) 883-8606. true story, explores an essential issue of base- with his scheme - even in the face of condemna- PICK OF THE WEEK ball and of life: How do you measure human tion from his own bosses - to prove the cynics Rabbi Cyril Harris value? And what he comes up with in this sur- wrong. Community Centre, Moneyball prisingly poignant study is a lesson worth not- Veteran actor Philip Seymour Hoffman plays Oaklands: Annual group ing. the disillusioned coach who is diametrically exhibition, curated by René Cast: Brad Pitt; Jonah Hill; Philip Seymour Pitt thrives in the pivotal role of the shrewd opposed to Beane’s scheme. Sidley, including work by Regi Hoffman Billy Beane, a man who has to assemble a win- “Moneyball” is a remarkable film hybrid. It Bar David, Sheila Jarzin, Director: Bennett Miller ning team on a tight budget. He is a man who lives the game, and you can feel your pulse rise Rhona Gorvy and others, until has an epiphany; all of baseball’s conventional during its more heady moments, but there is also December 11, (011) 728-8088. SOUTH AFRICANS in general are not great fol- wisdom is wrong. So he puts into action a plan the added dash of old-fashioned romanticism to lowers of American baseball. To make it worse, to reinvent his team and outsmart the richer it. Intrinsic aspects of the film, too, are self- Sydenham-Highlands North statistical analysis is not a subject to hold you riv- clubs in acquiring fresh talent. worth and being given a second chance in life Shul Hall: “Powerbrain: the eted to the screen. Yet both feature in “Moneyball”. Helping him in his quest is chubby, bespecta- and these are handled with style. Mentalist” by Michael Bennett Miller’s production is a sharply cled Peter Brand (a commanding Jonah Hill), In the end, money serves neither as the meas- Abrahamson, on November observed, engaging, thoughtful and highly an Ivy League graduate with an intense interest ure of a man nor as the ultimate assessment of 30, 072-913-7262. amusing escapade into the world of professional in baseball and a computer-like mathematical quality; it’s a short-sighted metric based on past baseball. brain. He can spot the potential in even the accomplishment rather than on future potential. Victory Theatre, Orange A huge slice of its success, apart from having most broken down player. Success isn’t always about scoring a home run. Grove: “Relive the 50s: Kwela an excellent director, and employing crackling This unlikely partnership has the unenviable It’s about delivering again and again. And many Bafana”, directed by Phyllis dialogue, is due to Brad Pitt, a screen megastar task of recruiting bargain players whom base- of the overpaid, ego-driven footballers plying Klotz and Smal Ndaba, until with chameleon-like qualities. ball scouts have deemed “flawed”, but who still their trade today, could take note from this December 10, (011) 728-9603. He can slip in and out of a role at the blink of have the ability to score runs and win games. rewarding slice of cinematic magic. 25TThe November - 02 Decemberh 2011 e GGoldenolden YearsY eaSA rJEWISH REPORTs 11 How to feel young and live life to the fullest

AS WE grow older, we experience an increasing cluding the loss of friends, family, your career, your Myth: Old age means poor health and disability. Fact: One of the more damaging myths of ageing number of major life changes, including retirement, health, and even your independence. It’s natural to Fact: There are some diseases that are more com- is that after a certain age, you just won’t be able the loss of loved ones, and the physical changes feel those losses. But if that sense of loss is balanced mon in older adults. However, getting old does not to try anything new or contribute things anymore. of ageing. How we handle these changes, as well with positive ingredients, you have a formula for age- automatically mean poor health or that you will be Quite the contrary. Older adults are just as capa- as regular day-to-day stresses, is the key to ageing ing well. confi ned to a walker or wheelchair. Plenty of older ble of learning new things, thriving in new environ- well. Healthy ageing means continually reinventing adults enjoy vigorous health. Preventive measures ments, and sharing their wisdom and experience Healthy ageing is about much more than stay- yourself, fi nding new things you enjoy, learning to like healthy eating, exercising and managing stress with many generations. If you believe in yourself ing physically healthy - it’s about maintaining your adapt to change, staying physically and socially ac- can help reduce the risk of chronic disease and fall and have confi dence in yourself, you are setting up sense of purpose and your zest for life. While the tive, and feeling connected to your community and risk later in life. a positive environment for change no matter what specifi c ingredients of healthy ageing are different loved ones. Myth: Memory loss is an inevitable part of ageing. your age. for everyone, the common factors are good mental Unfortunately, for many, ageing brings anxiety and Fact: You may eventually notice you don’t remem- health and the ability to manage stress, knowing fear instead. How will I take care of myself? What if ber experiences as easily as in the past, and memo- Tips for coping with change the basic formula for healthy ageing will help you I lose my spouse? What is going to happen to my ries may take longer to retrieve. However, signifi cant As you age, there will be periods of both joy and live with meaning and joy throughout your senior mind? memory loss is not an inevitable result of ageing. stress. It’s important to build your resilience and fi nd years. However, many of these fears stem from myths Brain training and new learning can occur at any healthy ways to cope with challenges. This ability will Coping with change is diffi cult, no matter how old about ageing that are exaggerated or simply untrue. age. And there are many things you can do to keep help you make the most of the good times and keep you are. The particular challenge for older adults is The truth is that you are stronger and more resilient your memory sharp. your perspective when times are tough. the sheer number of changes and transitions - in- than you may think. Myth: You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Continued on page 13 Step on Royal Caribbean International for your world of choice Believe everything you’ve read about Dubai, and more – it truly is that incredible.

BUILDING ON Royal Caribbean International’s restaurant and buffet-style options and for the reputation for introducing revolutionary cruise ex- in-between nibbles there are pizza-bars and ice- periences, and the combination of their signature cream parlours. style of cruising, Brilliance of the Seas will continue Twenty four-hour room service adds to the for the third consecutive season with her seven- pampering and you may just need that breakfast night itineraries from the compelling homeport of in bed after taking in a West End-style show and Dubai in November this year. then boogying down in one of the discos until the Royal Caribbean International’s “Brilliance of early hours! the Seas” will offer 18 sailings, departing every For kids, there can be no greater adventure than Monday on seven-night United Arab Emirates and sailing the high seas. And to make it even more Oman itineraries from November this year through special, Royal Caribbean International created to March 2012, as well as two sailings to India in the “Adventure Ocean Programme”, specifi cally March and April 2012. designed to entertain children from ages three to From the moment you step on board any of 17, with an exciting range of fun and educational Royal Caribbean International’s 22 magnifi cent supervised activities. ships, you’ll fi nd a world of choices you could only There’s even the added excitement of “Adven- have imagined. With so many exciting activities ture Beach” onboard - an area especially for fami- onboard, choosing can be an activity in itself! lies to enjoy together, with swimming pool, water Play basketball, speed around the in-line skat- slides and loads of fun water activities. ing track, play a round of golf in the golf simulator And if you want to go ashore or just enjoy some or work up a sweat in the gym. The best part of free time without the children, you can relax in the all is these activities won’t dent your wallet as they knowledge that the fully qualifi ed staff ensure your are virtually all included in the price. children are always in safe hands and with friends With the ships being mini-destinations in them- their own age. selves, it is almost a bonus to discover different • For more information contact Marvin at Cruise destinations each day while only having to unpack Corner on (011) 453-2660 or e-mail them at once. All meals are included with casual dining, [email protected] 12 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 THE GOLDEN YEARS Nurturing, nursing and caring… Healthcare in your home Rhona Solomon started the company two years ago after she had to look after her mother when the latter was ill. Solomon realised that there was an urgent need for carers.

ALTHOUGH SHE had a basic knowledge of her personality, to enable them to provide suit- Carers constantly undergo refresher training Other services nursing, a diploma in training and was a former able carers, able to cope with any circumstanc- from Sarah and other experts in their specifi c Medical co-ordination with doctors and health- nurse, as the company grew, she realised there es. fi elds. care providers, light housework, shopping and was a clear need for assistance and qualifi ed The two are in constant contact with the pa- meal preparation, including specialised diets in medical personnel to be involved. That was tient’s family, doctors and carers and adjust the What type of services are available? collaboration with dieticians, assistance with when she approached Sarah Manney, a quali- patient’s care as required. Complete records Post-surgery: Patients who have been dis- daily activities and errands. fi ed nurse, with general nursing and experience are kept by the carers and a registered nursing charged from hospital, needing to recuperate in “Family is there to love and support a person in Alzheimer’s, psychiatry and skills in midwife- sister is available at all times. Rhona and Sarah the comfort of their own homes, such as post- in a time of illness or post-surgery,” say Rhona ry, to join her. ensure that the highest standards of service are surgery of any kind. and Sarah. ”That is where Complete Nursing The two then formed Complete Nursing provided at all times. The elderly: Whether short- or long-term, or comes in, providing the family with peace of Care… just for the period when the family is away over mind that their loved ones are being well looked Carers/nurses the holiday period or have emigrated. after. The Nursing Care plan Complete Nursing provides dedicated, knowl- Terminally ill: Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or on- “We have a passion for ensuring that we can Rhona and Sarah consult the family to deter- edgeable, well-trained carers, some of whom cology patients, so that family members can provide loving and knowledgable carers who mine the patient’s requirements and environ- are qualifi ed nurses, on a short- or long-term spend precious time with their loved ones in the can keep your loved ones in their own comfort- ment, to ensure that the necessary safety and basis. Every carer/nurse undergoes an in-depth comfort of their own home. able environment.” precautions are taken into consideration, as interview, a thorough screening process, back- Baby care: For moms who have just delivered well as the patient’s particular needs. ground and criminal checks, to ensure reliabil- (inclusive of triplets) and need time to get their Complete Nursing - we will manage Any recommendations are made and based ity, good communication skills and the highest strength back and enjoy their bundles of joy, your healthcare in the home for you! on the patient’s requirements and even his or level of commitment. qualifi ed nurses (short- or long-term). Tel: (011) 656-2206/2254. Laughter is the best medicine The needs of our senior citizens - physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual - are primary.

WITH 720 RESIDENTS in two facilities - Sandringham Gardens and Our Parents Home - it is no wonder that enormous effort is in- vested in ensuring that, for those who are well enough to enjoy it, a full and stimulating programme of entertainment, outings and activi- ties is provided. This is in addition to essential healthcare and other vital services. The social and therapeutic be- nefi ts of exercise classes, arts and crafts, concerts, quizzes and much, much more, are immeas- urable. Residents of Sandringham Gardens and Our Parents Home on Special occasions, such as an outing to Silverstar Casino. birthdays, are celebrated month- ly with tea and cake. Visits from dinner and dancing. So much fun! the Jewish and general community are a welcome At Sandringham Gardens’ Lifestyle Centre, there part of commemorating Youth Day, Mandela Day are a wide range of amenities on offer, including a and Spring Day, to mention only a few. beauty salon, movie room, library, mini-mart and Honour the Aged month provides the ideal op- games area. Many special events are designed to portunity for a full-scale party complete with band, appeal to the residents and these serve to minimise isolation and promote community integration. There is an important spiritual dimen- sion too with shiurim and lectures by visit- ing rabbonim and teachers, as well as shul services in both facilities. But perhaps the most exciting of all are the regular outings to places of interest, when residents from the two homes join to- gether to ride the Gautrain, spend the day at the zoo, visit Silverstar Casino, or even, through the kindness of a benevolent do- nor, attend the ballet, Sleeping Beauty. Care of older people has become the Members of SAUJS (SA Union of Jewish Students) Chevrah Kadisha’s largest cost area and visit Our Parents Home on Youth Day. forms half of its total annual budget. 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 13 THE GOLDEN YEARS Willowbrook Retirement Village - a home from home How to feel young and

SITUATED IN the beautiful suburb of Sandown, near Village Walk Shopping live life to the fullest Centre, Willowbrook is a home from home for the selective senior citizen. Continued from page I Willowbrook offers residential living in homely bachelor and 1-bedroom en-suite • Focus on the things you’re grateful for. The longer you live, the more apartments, most of them overlooking the you lose. But as you lose people and things, life becomes even more beautiful gardens. Mid-care and frail-care precious. When you stop taking things for granted, you appreciate are also available with qualifi ed and car- and enjoy what you have even more. ing staff. • Acknowledge and express your feelings. You may have a hard time Willowbrook has a podiatrist and physi- showing strong emotions, perhaps feeling that such a display is in- otherapist that visit regularly and there is a appropriate and weak. But burying your feelings can lead to anger, GP on call (or you can use your own) and resentment, and depression. Don’t deny what you’re going through. easy access to hospitals. Find healthy ways to process your feelings, perhaps by talking with Residents have a choice of enjoying a close friend or writing in a journal. the sweet fragrances of the rose garden, • Accept the things you can’t change. Many things in life are beyond which is at its spectacular best from No- our control. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things vember, or enjoying the shade from the garden and weather are at their best. assist with daily living activities.We are you can control such as the way you choose to react to problems. the massive trees in the well- Only need a temporary holi- also proud to have a specialised Alzhei- Face your limitations with dignity and a healthy dose of humour. manicured garden. Poppies, day while your carer or family are mer’s and dementia care centre. • Look for the silver lining. As the saying goes: “What doesn’t kill us lilies, hydrangeas and many away? Willowbrook offers holiday The advantage of living in our villages makes us stronger.” When facing major challenges, try to look at other plants, also give a mag- care especially for you. Book for is that there is always someone around them as opportunities for personal growth. If your own poor choices nifi cent show. The rose garden a week or a month and enjoy all to respond to an emergency call. Nursing contributed to a stressful situation, refl ect on them and learn from is a favourite venue for afternoon that Willowbrook offers, along with staff are always on site or on call. Activities your mistakes. tea. the care and hospitality of all staff. Also and entertainment are arranged to keep • Take daily action to deal with life’s challenges. When challenges It’s like being on a permanent holiday! on offer is a respite facility, which is useful residents active, healthy and interested in seem too big to handle, sweeping them under the carpet often ap- All delicious meals and laundry are done after an operation. loving life. pears easier. But ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away; for you and there is plenty of entertain- Willowbrook is proud to be managed by • For further information on respite or holi- it allows both the problem and your anxiety to build. Instead, take ment and activities. The Activities Depart- and a part of the Flower Foundation family. day care, please contact Matron Pauline or things one small step at a time. Even a small step can go a long ment are on the go the whole day long, Established in 1963, we have 10 villages Penny on (011) 884-7305. For permanent way to boosting your confi dence and reminding you that you are providing interest and fun. around Johannesburg offering independ- accommodation, please contact the Flower not powerless. Whether you like daily walks or stretch- ent living for the active person in 1- 2- and Foundation marketing department at tel ing exercises, trips to shops or special 3-bedroom cottages, and in apartments (011) 781-4920 or e-mail info@fl ower.org.za Depression is not a normal part of ageing outings to the theatre, you’ll be spoilt for in residential living. The diffi cult changes that older individuals often face - such as the choice at Willowbrook. We also have vari- For future care needs, Flower Foun- Managed by Flower Foundation death of a spouse, retirement, or medical problems - can lead to de- ous card games, arts and crafts, guest dation offers mid-care accommodation Retirement Homes NPO 000-836, pression, especially if you don’t have a strong support system. But speakers and parties are planned regularly, in spacious bedsitters, where meals and since 1963 www.fl ower.org.za / depression is not a normal or necessary part of ageing, and with treat- especially over the December period when laundry are catered for, and nursing staff info@fl ower.org.za ment and support, you can get back to enjoying your golden years. 14 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 THE GOLDEN YEARS Madison Gardens Residential Lodge – for carefree living

MARLENE BILEWITZ ments for retired people to live a hap- Conveniently situated in the quiet py life: freedom, independence, secu- leafy suburb of Gresswold near Bal- Mission statement rity, convenience, an easily accessible four Park Shopping Centre and only TO ENRICH the lives of our residents location for family and friends to visit, minutes away from several hospitals through the delivery of quality care with parking facilities. and clinics, Madison Gardens offers and cost-effective services. Also: Comfortable accommodation space, comfort and style. The philosophy of Madison Gar- with suffi cient space to create one’s The large airy rooms, all have gener- dens management is that they and own “home-from-home”, yet have all ous built-in cupboards, en-suite bath- the residents are a family who share the conveniences of not needing to rooms, M-Net, separate SuperSport a communal home where respect for cook, clean, organise, or worry about channel and telephones as a stand- each other is primary. security or repairs. ard feature included in the price. There are certain basic require- Everything is taken out of the resi- All rooms are fully serviced, includ- dents’ hands and the only ing laundry facilities for the residents’ thing they need to do is in- own linen. Personal laundry, however, dulge and enjoy themselves needs to be organised between resi- and be sure to go to the very dents and staff. good restaurant three times a There are three meals per day avail- and security guards on duty 24 hours day where the service, food able: a hearty breakfast, a light lunch a day. Plus, there is enclosed protect- and companionship of other and a sumptuous four course dinner, ed parking for residents and guests residents, are reliably there for as well as morning and afternoon available. the taking. teas. Special meals are served during Jewish festivals. Specialised care-giving Luxurious amenities include a hair- The health and well-being of the resi- dressing salon, library and big screen dents is of utmost concern to Madi- DStv in the comfortable lounges. son Gardens. There is a qualifi ed Film and bingo evenings are held live-in nursing sister and nurse aid each week and aerobics is conducted care-givers onsite, 24 hours a day. by a professional instructor. One can As one ages, a need for assistance use the free shuttle service to nearby in everyday tasks may become nec- catering, Madison Gardens offers shopping centres, or simply enjoy a essary – like dressing, bathing, eating, very reasonable tariffs. This value for game of bridge or relax in the tranquil or using the bathroom. money and caring attitude is what gardens. For those residents, we encourage makes them such a special place. as much independence as possible Contact Gerry or Tammy for an ap- Security but when and where fulltime assist- pointment. They will gladly show you The property is surrounded by an ance and nursing is required, it is around and answer any questions on electric fence and monitored by CCTV available. your or your loved one’s future. Tel: cameras with a switchboard operator Despite the superb facilities and (011) 440-4777. 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 15 TAPESTRY ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE Exposing the bad odour surrounding Chanel No 5

Sleeping With the Enemy: Coco that she and Abwehr agent Chanel, Nazi Agent by Hal Baron Louis de Vaufreland Vaughan (Random House Piscatry had travelled together Struik, R220) in 1941 on an espionage mission for German intelligence. REVIEWED BY GWEN PODBREY In 1943, she had travelled with Von Dincklage (who, it BORN OUT of wedlock in 1883 emerged, was also a German to a laundrywoman mother and spy) to Berlin to offer her serv- a street hawker father, Gabrielle ices as an agent to SS Chanel’s childhood was one of Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Him- penury. Her mother died when mler. She had then travelled to she was 12, whereupon she and Madrid on a secret mission for her sisters were shipped off to a SS General Walter Schellen- convent-cum-orphanage. berg. In addition, she had been The harshness and indoctri- involved in cloak-and-dagger nation of the nuns instilled in the young girl missions in Switzerland. a deep anger at her lot, an invincible belief Then there were numerous pieces of evi- that she was born for better things and all dence revealing her close collaboration with the bigotry (including vicious anti-Semitism) the Nazis in occupied Paris, which had enti- of the Cistercian order. tled her to a string of privileges (such as din- “Chanel’s anti-Semitism was not only ver- ing at the city’s finest restaurant every night, bal, but passionate, demoded and often while the rest of the city’s starving popula- embarrassing. Like all the children of her tion rummaged in garbage cans for scraps). age, she had studied the catechism: hadn’t She had befriended both Reichsmarschall the Jews crucified Jesus?” recalled Marcel Hermann Goring and Propaganda Minister Haedrich, editor of Marie Claire magazine, Josef Goebbels, and their wives. She had also years later. established a close - and unsurprising - She emerged at 18 as a skilled seamstress friendship with the virulently anti-Semitic with dark good looks. Working as a nightclub Duke and Duchess of Windsor. chanteuse, she hooked up with a succession How had Chanel escaped retribution after of men, notably English playboy Arthur the liberation of Paris - when collaborators “Boy” Capel, who installed her in a Paris were summarily rounded up, and either had apartment and set her up in business as a their heads shaven and branded, or were milliner. summarily shot? But the sleazy life of a demimondaine was She managed this through the interven- simply a stepping stone. With a natural tion of her old friend Winston Churchill, instinct for networking, and a near-preter- who hurriedly pulled strings to protect her natural ambitious drive, Chanel inveigled very well-dressed derriere. herself into the city’s glamorous and aristo- Admittedly, Vaughan’s book is not intend- cratic circles by flattery, fawning and flair. ed as a biography, but as an exploration of Her coterie came to include the likes of the sordid, untold side of Gabrielle Chanel. Jean Cocteau, Igor Stravinsky, Pablo As such, it is intensively researched and Picasso, Serge Diaghilev (for whose ballets resoundly damning. she began designing costumes), exiled However, as a key to her personality, it Russian Grand Duke Dmitri and the Duke of unlocks very little. It is left to us to recon- Westminster (who, like Baron Hans Gunther struct her motives, which were probably Von Dincklage, would become a long-time very straightforward: for all her wealth, lover). She also befriended Winston Churc- fame and sophistication, Chanel never out- hill, a contact which would later prove most grew her hunger for the good life. fortuitous. The overwhelming themes of her life are Before long, she had opened the House of predation, manipulation and survival - Chanel and, in addition to couture, had also things for which her genius rivalled, and launched the great perfume classic, Chanel indeed surpassed, her genius for design. If No 5. Chanel’s reading of women and their Chanel’s distaste for Jews did not prevent strengths, was shrewd (unerringly depicted her using them as business partners. In 1923, in her couture), then her reading of men and she sold the manufacturing rights to her per- their weaknesses was spectacular. fumes to the Alsatian Jews Pierre Wert- She could, and did, literally charm the heimer and his younger brother. For this she pants off whoever stood between her and the received 10 per cent of their company’s paid- next good meal, or grand home, or big up capital (an arrangement she later cur- cheque, or media accolade. Who or what the tailed, during the war). man was, and whether his values clashed And in 1930, she accepted an offer of a mil- with patriotic (or simply decent) ideals, was lion dollars - unheard of at the time - from entirely secondary. Hollywood mogul Samuel Goldwyn to spend Having learnt at a young age that waiting a few weeks at his studio designing costumes for destiny to dole out favours was unreli- for his films. The little convent seamstress able, she became adept at creating her own had well and truly arrived. luck. By stealth, sexuality, subterfuge and Upon returning to Paris, her torrid private street-savvy, she managed to escape either sexual liaisons - and charmed public persona detection or retribution all her life. - continued to co-exist until her death in 1971. She emerges from these pages as a despi- It was only a year later that a series of publi- cable and duplicitous character: a woman cations provided incontrovertible proof of who, behind her glamorous façade, her treasonable conduct during the war. The remained a crude, conniving peasant at exposure caused an uproar in France and heart. One shuts the book with a shudder. finally tarnished the legend. But, then again, seeing that irresistible Among other things, the evidence revealed LBD in a shop window… AROUND THE WORLD NEWS IN BRIEF PROTESTERS CHALLENGE LIBEL LAW BILL TEL AVIV - Hundreds of Israelis on Party organised the protest, which includ- Tuesday protested against a libel law that ed chants such as "Bibi, Bibi, you've gone passed its first reading in the Knesset. too far - Israel is not Iran" and "The right is The protesters gathered on Tuesday running wild", Ynet reported. evening in Tel Aviv, a day after the Knesset Amendment opponents say the measure approved on first reading an amendment will limit freedom of the press and stifle that would relax the criteria for slander and investigative journalism, and that the fines libel, and increase by six times the maxi- are excessive. mum damages for such infractions. Approximately 100 counter-demonstra- Peace Now and the left-wing Meretz tors protested nearby. (JTA) 16 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011

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

Guidelines for letters: Letters up to 400 words will get preference. Please provide your full first name Disclaimer: The letters page is intended to provide opportunity for a range of views on any and surname, place of residence, and a daytime contact telephone or cell number. We do not publish let- given topic to be expressed. Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not ters under noms de plume. Letters should preferably be e-mailed. Letters may be edited or shortened. necessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff or directors of the Jewish Report IF YOU DON’T REPORT IT, IT NEVER HAPPENED! MOVE ON PEACE, OR ONE-STATE SOLUTION WILL BE FORCED I HAVE seldom read a letter as inane as the she last in Israel and when did she read the IT IS necessary to respond to some letters I agree that “apartheid” does not correctly one published in the SAJR of November 18 Israeli press, which I can inform her are the written over the past few weeks. describe Israel proper, although the state-led (attacking journalist Paul Slier). Does Shelly strictest critics of the its government? I do not represent any organisation and discrimination of the country’s Palestinian Rosenberg know what a journalist must It was irritating to hear Avnery referring to write only in my own capacity, because I citizens is systematic. report on? I doubt it. She wants Slier to "say "apartheid Israel" which is actually meaning- care about the future of Israelis and My disagreement with Goldstone is that something nice about Israel for a change". less mumbo-jumbo, but a lot of what he said Palestinians. I write because it is a Jewish he misunderstands the purpose of the occu- As it happened, Slier interviewed Ari of a possible Israeli attack on Iran, made per- value to raise one’s voice at injustice. pation in the West Bank and Gaza. It is not Avnery who is a well-known commentator fect sense - views are generally held in many Unlike religious Zionists who support the about security; if Israel were worried about in Israel and he has his own agenda which is military circles and not only in Israel. settlements and the occupation, I see it as security, it would not create massive settle- well to the left of centre. That he expresses Finally, why is Rosenberg sheltering in the antithesis of what it means to be Jewish, ments deep inside the West Bank, or demol- these views are anathema to Rosenberg (and Parkwood, Johannesburg? Why is she not in not its expression. ish Palestinian houses, or build a barrier many others) who only wants good news sto- Israel if she is so concerned about it? After all, David Abel incorrectly suggested in his that divides Palestinian towns, or maintain ries from Israel and only about people who her daughter and cousins live there. Strange. letter (October 17) that I support a one-state 600 settlers in the middle of Hebron, forcing agree with her that everything in Israel is As for Rosenberg no longer listening to solution. I argued that if Israel does not act its Palestinian residents to live under regu- hunky-dory with looking after the Bedouins, Russia Today TV, that is her democratic right quickly to create a Palestinian state in the lar curfew. purification of water, cancer cures and so and I am sure that the station in Moscow is in West Bank and Gaza, the Palestinians will The occupation’s chief goal is to make life on. shock about her decision. soon call for a single, democratic state. so miserable for the Palestinians that they Rosenberg does not believe that anyone The international consensus will shift are forced to leave. with a contrary view of the Israeli govern- Michael Kaplan towards a one-state solution because the Anyone who has seen maps of new Israeli ment should be heard. When, I wonder, was Pretoria world will conclude that it is impossible to settlements in East Jerusalem or the West separate illegal Israeli settlements from Bank, can see that they are often designed to DUCHEN’S REMARKABLE NAIVETÉ ABOUT ISRAEL IS ASTOUNDING Palestinian towns. People who do not sup- cut Palestinian towns and cities off from one I AM appalled at Bernard Duchen’s stumped! The Exile began with the destruc- port the current Palestinian UN bid for another and deny them capacity to expand. unashamed display of anti-Israel bias in his tion of the Temple in 70 CE (1 941 years ago) statehood are fast-tracking a single state. This cannot be seen as anything but an letter, “Israel is not ‘a light unto the though it should be remembered that a The international legal definition of the “institutionalised regime of systematic nations’” (SAJR November 18). Either that, Jewish presence has been continuous here term “apartheid”, according to the Rome oppression by one racial group over anoth- or he displays a remarkable level of naiveté till the present time. Statute, refers to acts “committed in the con- er” – it is Israeli apartheid. about Israel in general and the nature of the Muhammad lived and died in 622 CE in text of an institutionalised regime of sys- Everyone, including Jews who see the cur- Israeli-Arab conflict in particular. what is today Saudi Arabia (1 389 years ago), tematic oppression and domination by one rent path as immoral and unsustainable, He draws on a few isolated incidents of and the Arab “Palestinians” only invented racial group over any other racial group or must support positive peaceful diplomatic parochial strife here in Israel to damn the themselves after 1967. So, what happened groups and committed with the intention of measures, including supporting a sovereign country and by definition Jews everywhere. then in the year 2011? maintaining that regime”. Palestinian state alongside a sovereign The SA Jewish community is certainly not There are countless examples of Israel as Justice Richard Goldstone, in his New Israel. A diplomatic answer, based on inter- immune from this type of problem either. a light unto the nations, far too numerous to York Times op-ed piece, said: In “Israel, national law, is the only way forward. That he has fallen hook, line and sinker mention here. However, one example is per- there is no apartheid”, but (he added) that in for Arab propaganda is most distressing. tinent: If Israel is so appalling a place, how the West Bank “the situation is more com- Daniel Mackintosh Whether the Mossad was or was not come it is the sought-after destination for plex... even if Israel acts oppressively toward Observatory involved in the assassination of a Hamas thousands of black Muslim refugees fleeing Palestinians there”. Cape Town operative in Dubai, is a matter for debate. from strife in the Sudan and other neigh- The release of countless hotel videos by an bouring countries? Once “caught” they are ME: SETTING GEFFEN STRAIGHT WITH SOME HISTORICAL FACTS Arab police department, bent on protecting given food and the bus fare to Tel Aviv. No NATHAN GEFFEN is either confused or 15 - 18 month war, 6 000 young men and its tarnished image, is hardly “evidence” of arrests, no internment! What other country ignorant of his facts (SA Jewish Report women fell – one per cent of the entire pop- Israel’s “misdeeds”. Eliminating an enemy would treat infiltrators this way? No, Mr November 11). Please permit me to state ulation! is not wrong either - it is simply the nature of Duchen, Israel is the one country on the face some facts for him: 5. By the end of the war, between 550 000 war. Is Duchen aware that with the excep- of this planet that knows right from wrong 1. The borders of the Jewish State were to 710 000 fled Israel. At the same time, tion of Egypt and Jordan, we are still for- and is not afraid to display it. set by the UN resolution of November 29, 850 000 refuges from Arab countries arrived mally at war with the rest of the Arab world, 1947. Ben-Gurion had much more urgent in Israel. The Jewish refugees were com- a war declared, not by us, but on us? Sharon-Anne Epstein problems to solve at the time. One of them pletely absorbed and integrated into Israel, The reference to 1 800 years has me Modi’in was whether to declare independence alto- while the Arab refuges have been left to this MK HANEEN ZOABI JUSTIFIES BEING SANCTIONED gether. America advised him against it. It day as a chronic festering sore. That this is was only on May 12 that he is reputed to deliberate, is evident by the Arab League YOUR REPORT on the findings of the Committee said they were satisfied with have said: "It is now or never!" resolution 1457 stating: "The Arab countries Russell Tribunal (Jewish Report November Zoabi’s repeated apologies, which she deliv- 2. According to the resolution the Jewish will not grant citizenship to applicants of 11), mentions the verdict of a juror, Michael ered personally to the usher in the Knesset, State was to have 51 per cent of the territory Palestinian origin in order to prevent their Mansfield, QC, who cites Haneen Zoabi’s in multiple media interviews and in a letter and the Arabs 43 per cent, the rest was to assimilation into the host countries." testimony that she has been “categorised as she wrote to the usher and the committee.” be international. The Jewish State was 6. There was a time that labourers from a ‘threat to security’”. She’s been physically If participating in the Mavi Marmara favoured because a very great part of its ter- the West Bank came in to work in Israel assaulted in the Knesset and they want to incident is not worth of “sanctions”, then ritory was the Negev, semi-desert at the without much difficulty but then some of withdraw her citizenship.” what is? In a letter I wrote to the local daily time. them blew themselves up in crowded Israeli The following appeared in the In- newspaper, which had printed three reports 3. Although it is called the 1948 War, the centre, the rest is painful history. ternational Jerusalem Post of July 22: “MK about the Tribunal - all unfavourable - I war started a day after the resolution with a 7. Finally, it seems that the Palestinian bid Haneen Zoabi (Balad) received sanctions pointed out the fallaciousness of her fears of Jewish bus ambushed on the way to to become member of the UN has petered from the Knesset Ethics Committee for par- being “persecuted”. Jerusalem. out. ticipating in last year’s flotilla to the Gaza The editor printed a photograph of the 4. At the time there were 660 000 Jews In Strip, but she apparently won’t be pun- lady next to my letter. This, presumably, what was to be the Jewish State - so much Shulamit Kagan ished for shoving a Knesset usher on July shows that “The PE Herald” had reporters for the Jews’ numerical superiority. In the Johannesburg 13. on the scene or at least had access to details “The Knesset House Committee convened of the Tribunal. Letters refuting untrue last week to consider recommending sanc- statements about, or justifying Israel made ZAPIRO CARTOON ON NETANYAHU STICKS IN THE CRAW tions for the incident when Zoabi resisted a by contributors or journalists, are seldom IT IS with utter amazement that I see that the Will the Jewish Report obtain a copy of this female usher who was trying to remove her published in our daily press. latest edition of the Jewish Report (No- cartoon and show it to their readers? The from the Knesset plenum for going too far in vember 18) did not carry any comment or next edition will show. heckling the prime minister. Bryan Lewis news report or editorial about the recent dis- As far as that cartoon character Jonathan “A majority of the MKs in the House Port Elizabeth gusting cartoon by Jonathan Shapiro Shapiro is concerned, his professional name (Zapiro) in The Times of London.. should not be Zapiro but "Oswald Pirow" with DWELLING IN THE PAST DOESN’T SERVE ANY PURPOSE The cartoon showed Israeli Prime Minister reference, and deference, to another Jew Benjamin Netanyahu sitting on top of a basher of 1930s vintage. Here's hoping Zapiro The self-flagellating “political correctness” legal system, was certainly a matter of indi- house with a Magen David on one wall (obvi- reads the column by Michael Freund on page of it all, taken together with the lack of bal- vidual conviction, choice and circumstance. ously the State of Israel). The caption read 9 of the latest Jewish Report, "Open micro- ance on the part of those pushing a worn-out Indeed, blacks were not all extreme revolu- "Fibber on the Roof", a reference to the over- phone and sealed minds". “far-leftist” agenda who apparently have tionaries and whites were not all extreme heard conversation between President Zapiro is in good company with Sarkozy either forgotten, or choose to ignore, or are reactionaries. In fact, the overwhelming Nicolas Sarkozy of France and Barack and Obama as far as a sealed mind is con- unaware of the broader national and inter- majority in either racial group were neither. Obama. cerned. national context of the times and the com- Any apology and acts of reconciliation It shows Netanyahu singing the words: plex issues involved as they impacted on today, surely should be reflected in our indi- "Singing our own praises as the Middle East’s Bennie Katzman South African Jewry, could well have result- vidual and communal daily interaction with only democracy, while persecuting and dis- Bnei Dror ed in a weekend of severe intestinal irrita- others as, together, we build up, consolidate possessing Palestinians just as others have Israel tion on the part of those who did not share and maintain the new democratic, multifac- done to us Jews." the convictions of many of the panelists at eted South Africa. Below these words the cartoon shows As a matter of policy we don’t comment on the SAJBD (Cape Council) conference in In fact, Rhoda Kadalie’s letter in last week’s Israeli soldiers, at gunpoint forcing people something that’s appeared in another publi- Cape Town. SAJR summed it up succinctly: “It is time to to move along, reminiscent of what the cation. And then there’s the “small matter” of What I don’t understand is why specifically move on, and that is what I as a black person Nazis did to Jews, but in Zapiro's seemingly copyright. Even if we wanted to, we would Jewish organisations have to “publically and desire.” convoluted mind, the people are Pale- not be able to reprint the cartoon without per- symbolically” apologise when South African The conference has been lauded as a suc- stinians. mission. - Editor society as a whole (black, white - including cess by the organisers who, one is certain, the Jewish community) comprised of individ- have only the community’s best interests at FOR THE RECORD uals of diverse ethical and cultural standards heart. It would be appreciated if the SAJBD of behaviour, political and religious persua- were to explain to the community what were IT SHOULD BE ROZOWSKY AND NOT LOZOWSKY sions, as well as varying degrees of social the positive results achieved going forward. IN A story in last week’s paper, with the headline ”Sixty three years on, the Machalniks responsibility and philanthropic endeavour. remember...” we mentioned “Dave Lozowsky”. It should’ve read “Dave Rozowsky”. We How white and black people behaved per- David Abel regret the error. sonally within the country’s political and George 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 COMMUNITY COLUMNS

tional harm. When Israel is singled out for ways to effectively counter this menace. and the Israeli Embassy. Inter alia, I said that exclusive negative attention, and when such The Board obviously cannot remain on the we had seen the miracle of transformation in attacks are obviously based on false premises, sidelines in this battle, but at the same time our own country and knew that situations ABOVE prejudice and double standards, we can know our involvement need not be a departure from that seem hopeless and desperate can indeed for sure that our community comes under sig- our mandate to represent the community on change and can result in parties coming BOARD nificant emotional stress. specifically South African issues, but indeed together. Mary Kluk, In an ideal world, the Board would be happy can be an extension of it. The challenge for both parties in the Middle National Chairman to devote itself exclusively to promoting the Thus, when we involve ourselves in Israel- East was to understand the perspective of the well-being of SA Jewry while its sister organ- related matters, we always strive to do so from other side through negotiating a solution that A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies isation deals with all matters relating to the a local perspective. We emphasise the impor- took into account everyone’s insecurities and community’s relationship with Israel. tance of engagement, of respecting opposing aspirations. However, for the past decade and more, viewpoints and of looking back only to learn In contrast to the one-sided farce that was Israel has been coming under attack in every how best to go forward rather than allowing the Russell Tribunal, all had a fair chance to ‘Board’ or ‘Fed’ - conceivable forum. Whether in the media, the the weight of the past to drag us all down. present their views. I commend our Cape political arena, academia, arts and culture, It was this message I sought to convey in my Board for the key co-ordinating role they drawing the line trade relations or elsewhere, hardline anti- presentation last week at a symposium on the played, including in preparing presentations Israel activists have been pushing a relentless Middle East conflict hosted by Parliament's and information packs for Portfolio THE BOARD’S extensive involvement in agenda of demonising and delegitimising the International Relations and Co-operation Committee members and in ensuring a strate- responding to the Russell Tribunal on Jewish State. Nor has this only happened in Portfolio Committee. gically sound response from our side. Palestine has raised, not for the first time, South Africa; all other Diaspora communities Other participants in this generally positive questions as to why we devote so much effort are likewise continually struggling to find and constructive event, included the SAZF This column is paid for by the SAJBD to Israel issues. According to its mandate, the Board’s pri- mary focus is to ensure the safety and well- being of the local Jewish community (and also to represent the community on interna- tional Jewish forums). Israel-related issues, by contrast, fall within the ambit of the SA Zionist Federation, and the various Zionist- focused organisations that fall under its umbrella. Why, then, has defending Israel become so much a Board concern? Suffice it to say that this is one of the peren- nial questions we have to deal with, whether among our professional staff or at the lay leadership level. Is the matter on the table a “Board issue” or is it a “Fed issue”? The real- ity is that often it is both. When Israel comes under unfair attack, it is unrealistic to simply take the view that it is not the Board’s business, given how very much our community is emotionally con- nected to Israel. The SAJBD’s mandate is to safeguard South African Jewry, not only against physical attack but also against emo- LETTERS

CANING AT SCHOOL COULD PUSH UP AGGRESSION LEVELS THE LETTER by Jared Joel "Baffling enigma of the self-hating Jew", raises psychological issues, but one psychological issue that is to Jewish credit and has strategic significance, is the banning of corporal punishment in Israeli schools many years ago. (Psychologists report that caning tends to reduce the negotiating skills of the victim and cause many other problems). Also, physiological experiments have been done in animals, showing that if injury is inflicted (hitting, pinching, etc) when the sub- ject is under stress, calcium can be deposited in the injury area. On seeking further expert advice on this, I was informed by the medical director of a clinical trials institution that it seemed likely that caning could indeed cause calcium to be deposited in the muscle tissue, which causes weakness of the muscle. One may note that African countries tend to use caning in schools and research could be done on aggression levels (wars, etc) in Africa.

Eddie Miller Port Elizabeth 18 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011

YOUTH TALK Alison Goldberg [email protected] Planning for an unforgettable King David Sandton Habonim campsite this year scoops poster prizes GEMMA COWAN STORY AND PHOTO- PHOTOGRAPH: JUSTIN VAN ZYL GRAPH: VIVIENNE WEINER THE PAST few weeks have been KDS ART TEACHER filled with excitement for Machaneh Bonim Atid. With just KING DAVID Sandton one month to go, Habonim has scooped top prizes madrichim and channichim alike once again at the are preparing for what will annual Kosher Poster undoubtedly be another unforget- competition. table summer at the Habonim Habonim channichim on the beach before Shabbat. The Federation of campsite. Synagogues Women’s The Va’ad Poel (camp steering there’s no doubt that they will con- improvements over the past year Guilds of SA organis- committee) has been planning the tribute greatly towards the and even more new tents will be es this annual art ins and outs of camp since March. machaneh. available to our campers this year, competition for grade With them, the Va’ad Machaneh In addition to this, a team of 20 ensuring a safe and warm sleep 6 learners at Jewish day schools. Amanda Swirsky received first (camp organising committee) has Israeli madrichim will be flown every night. The brief is to create a poster with prize. Keeley-Shaye Boon, Gila been ensuring that everything goes down for the full three weeks of With places filling up quickly and a slogan and image to comple- Dove and Gabriella Monty were according to plan. This amazing machaneh. This team is essential in just over a month until the chan- ment it. awarded joint second place. Alex team of just over 20 individuals will connecting the channichim to nichim board the buses for Onrus, The award ceremony was held Cohen and Benjamin Dorfan won be taking camp this year to new Israel through their own experi- the members of Habonim are buzz- at the HOD Centre in Johannes- third prize and Tali Kadish, heights. ences and stories. ing with excitement. burg, recently. fourth. The participants of the Habonim Together with over 100 other Whether this is a channich’s first gap-year programme in Israel are madrichim, these are the people machaneh or last, it promises to be also set to return to South Africa at ensuring that the perfect combina- an experience like no other. To the end of the month. Having tion of education, fun and Habonim register for Machaneh Bonim Atid More than a sprinkle learnt invaluable leadership skills magic, will be experienced on camp visit www.habo.org.za/signup. and grappled with Israeli history this year. Places are filling up quickly, so and culture throughout the year, The campsite has had several make sure you don’t miss out! of the alphabet! MANDI DEFRIES Great joy as Children’s Sefer Torah is PHOTOGRAPH: MICHELLE VINOKUR

THROUGHOUT THE completed year the grade Rs at Minnie Bersohn Pre- Primary School in RABBI DANIEL SACKSTEIN Johannesburg, have PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED been learning the sounds of the alpha- THE CHILDREN’S Sefer Torah of bet. South Africa was an exciting ini- To celebrate the tiative thought of and executed completion of all 26 by Jaron and Shelley Tobias. letters, a party was Rabbi Daniel Sackstein assisted held and the children in the running of the project. It is ran through the the first Sefer Torah by the chil- sprinklers. It was a dren for the children of South most appropriate cel- Africa. ebration for a hot Parents were given the opportu- summer’s day! nity to sponsor a word, a pasuk or a sedra in the name of their child. Leon Tobias; Jonathan Hackner; Rabbi Daniel Sackstein; Stan The Jewish day schools eagerly Matthews; and Shimmy Perez, standing behind Jaron Tobias and Mazeltov to KDVPP 2012 Mini participated and the response was Rabbi Ryan Goldstein who oversaw the completion of the final let- very positive. The Sefer Torah was ters of the Children’s Sefer Torah. sponsored by the Tobias and Councillors Hackner families and was written Amidst great joy and celebra- field campus. The Children’s Sefer in Israel. Recently, the final letters tions, the Sefer Torah was danced Torah will please G-d be used by STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH were completed in the home of through the streets to the Links- Jewish children for many genera- BY STACY FLEISHMAN Stan and Shardi Matthews. field Shul on the King David Links- tions to come! MAZELTOV TO Alexa Novick and Jordan Heyes (pictured) Ensuring that maths isn’t Greek to young ones who were chosen to represent King David Victory Park Primary on the Johannesburg SCHOOLS IN Soweto supported The first school that was visited, Mini Council for 2012. by the ORT Math programme and was Zibambele Primary in Em- sponsored by Peregrine, were deni. The grade twos impressed recently visited by Peregrine’s the visitors with a demonstration human development officer and of their oral addition skills. TA Primary School shines in Conquesta ORT SA staff. Another grade two class did an According to an ORT SA media addition of numbers using the STORY AND PHOTO- release, Marina Knox of Pere- Singaporean method. GRAPH BY SUZANNE grine, commented on the visit: Head of department at Mocho- BELLING “What an absolute privilege to be chonono Primary School in Jabu- part of a project that brings light lani, Tsidi Mamabolo, proudly TORAH ACADEMY and life into eyes of little ones - it showed how she is implementing Primary learners was amazing to see grade two what is taught in training, and shone in an interna- learners with such enthusiasm took visitors to the hopscotch she tional competition - and pride do calculations and encourages learners to play dur- Conquesta, Years of maths. ing their break, “learning maths Excellence - founded “ORT SA has given teachers while having fun”. in 2002 in Australia. confidence, guidance and a practi- Mamabolo says of the ORT Coquesta is an cal solution to bring maths to Maths programme: “Singapore Olympiad in which TA young learners. We always hear maths is practical. It gives learn- entered for the first the stories of how poor the educa- Tsidi Mamabolo; Peregrine ers the chance to practise con- time in various sub- tion system is and the degradation human resources head Marina cepts with a concrete object. It jects. in schools - I was absolutely blown Knox; ORT head of educator also leaves room for educators to “It focuses on creat- away at the neatness and the pride empowerment division, Ariella be innovative by adapting lessons ing awareness and en- (grade 3 - English); Daniel En- the teachers and children of the Rosenberg (foreground). to suit their learners’ needs, pro- couraging lateral thinking,” said gelberg (grade 3 - numeracy); and schools we visited, have in their vide resources that are relevant to Pam Yachad, deputy principal of Benjamin Swartz (grade 3 - En- school grounds. Singapore Maths project with learners’ workbooks and re-teach the primary school. glish). Middle: Benjamin Jossel- “This pride was also visible in foundation phase in nine schools workbooks for learners experienc- Pictured are learners who re- sohn (grade 1- numeracy); Yona- the children’s workbooks. Pere- in Soweto. Training, classroom- ing learning barriers… Number ceived 100 per cent (platinum) in than Finkelstein (grade 1 - numer- grine is proud to be associated based support of grade two teach- concept is easily developed be- Conquesta. acy); and Zvi Rodal (grade1 - with ORT SA and the Soweto ers, provision of grade two books cause the programme is designed Back: Mendy Ash (grade 4 - numeracy). Front: Tzivia Rodal Maths project.” and mentoring of grade 1 teach- in such a way that it progresses mathematics); Baruch Rabin (grade 4 mathematics); and Leora The project entails the ORT ers, are included. from one level to the other.” (grade 4 - English); Akiva Rosen Porter (grade 3 - mathematics). 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 19 ADVERTORIAL

Existing business category winners : Amanda Rabinowitz (Jelly Bean Events), Donald Mghonyama, Jake Willis, Jarred Myers and Errol Freeman(Luluway Job Centre) Dr Avron Urison (ORT JET senior consultant) and Robert Brozin (Founder Nandos) Winning Jewish entrepreneurs shine in the limelight The definition of a business plan is a formal statement of a set of business goals, the reasons why they are believed to be attainable, and the plan for reaching those goals.

NICCI RAZ

THE BUSINESS plan is a vital first step in making your great idea a reality. “Stimulating new business development is such an important aspect of the financial stability and growth of not only our community, but for the broader South African community,” says ORT JET CEO, Paul Bacher ORT JET TEAM: It is with this thought in mind that ORT JET and Project Natan conceptu- Cindy Silberg(Operations manager),Robyn Smookler(Women’s Empowerment),Paul Bacher alised and launched the first Jewish business plan competition two years (CEO),Dina Cramer (Mentors),Nicci Raz(Marketing and Fundraising),Tracy Rosin (client liaison manager) ago. The idea behind the competition is to help those who have great busi- 2011 JUDGING ness ideas put their plans into action with prizes that offer a solid spring- PANEL board to make their idea a reality. The first competition launched in 2010, saw over 25 successful applica- Top Row: Rowan tions, all viable business ideas that lacked the necessary resources to get Swartz (ORT JET going. A year later the four winners have grown “leaps and bounds” with trustee), Joel Kesler the support of their allocated mentors and the use of their prizes. (Director Anooraq When the time came to launch the 2011 campaign, it was decided that a Resources), Daniel second category should be added in order to accommodate existing busi- Roy (Chairman nesses still considered new (less than 18 months in operation). The response Project Natan). was amazing and the 10 finalists were chosen in October by a panel of judges that saw each business presentation and spent time discussing the Front Row: Paul merits of each business case . Bacher (CEO), With Nandos being the headline sponsor, the marketing material was clev- Eldon Beinart (CEO erly structured around the theme of “passion”. As most entrepreneurs concur, Main Street without the passion to make your idea a reality, it is very difficult to get Holdings), Daphna through the hurdles along the way. This message was reinforced in the inter- Horowitz (Director view with Robbie Brozin, founder of Nandos, on the eve of the prize-giving. Peac Solutions). The winners were announced at a special prize-giving event hosted by the JSE and sponsored by Nandos on November 1. The evening was a huge success with over 200 business people arriving to a delicious spread of Kosher Nandos food and an interesting interview with Brozin. The winner of the start-up category was The Ice Coffee company. Owners Michael Wingrin and Ryan Hollander plan to bring the concept of ice cof- fee “on tap” to South Africa. Runner-up was Anita Kramer Geoffrey’s com- pany called Handy Man Assist, bringing well-priced, convenient handyman services to the market . Existing business winner Errol Freeman of Luluway Job Centres, will be expanding his internet cafes to include an onsite recruitment service and job portal. The runner-up in this category, is a school teacher from Cape Town , Amanda Rabinowitz, who has created her company, Jelly Bean Even, around a combination of education and entertainment that will delight and stimulate children of all ages . Those who attended had the opportunity to mingle and network after the prize-giving. ORT JET and Project Natan plan to run this competition annual- ly as a way of stoking the flames of the entrepreneurial spirit that exists with- in our community. 20 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 What an asset Sharise Weiner is to the Bench!

LESLIE HARRIS whether I planned to marry and chose to defy the odds and practise PHOTOGRAPH BY ILAN have children. It was a natural commercial law. Before ascending OSSENDRYVER assumption that I wouldn’t take to the Bench she was one of very my career seriously.” few female silks at the GROWING UP in a Jewish home, That’s hard to believe when one Johannesburg Bar who did predom- with a mother passionate about considers that today Weiner is an inantly commercial work. the scourge of inequality, one internationally respected jurist She successfully juggled the inevitably becomes aware of the who was called to the Bar of demands of family life and her need to fight oppression and England and Wales in 1998 and is career with the help of her fully injustice, Justice Sharise Weiner called on regularly to train practi- supportive husband, Darryl and her (pictured), who was recently tioners in England. parents, on whom she relied to help requirement. This makes no sense ing the skills of practitioners and appointed to the Bench of the Unable to find articles when with her son Daniel when the need in a profession where success her passion for a just society, it South Gauteng High Court, says. she qualified, Weiner followed the arose. depends on the ability to articulate- comes as no surprise that Weiner is That awareness kindled a pas- only course open to her and she Weiner is passionate about educa- ly present written or oral legal argu- highly regarded by her peers. sion for justice, which led her to a became an advocate. Even at the tion, and considers her 10-year ment and, at the moment, the lan- Justice Edwin Cameron of the career in law. Bar there were difficulties. tenure as chairman of the National guage of the courts and commerce Constitutional Court, says her When Weiner qualified as an The legal profession was very Advocacy Training Committee of is predominantly English. appointment as a judge adds not advocate more than 30 years ago, chauvinistic. It has improved the General Council of the Bar, to be In an attempt to alleviate this dis- only great professional proficiency it wasn’t easy for a woman to fol- over the years, but even today a highlight of her career. parity, the Bar has extended the and experience to the Bench, but low a legal career. there is a perception that women Since 1998, she has been invited pupillage period to a year and runs also a deep commitment to justice. “I couldn’t find a legal firm are unable to handle complex by Grays Inn London to participate an advocacy training programme She thought hard about accepting willing to offer me articles. All commercial litigation, she says. as both a teacher trainer and train- for pupils and junior counsel. nomination as a judge. they wanted to know was Despite this perception, Weiner er at junior practitioner workshops Weiner is equally forthright on Cameron recalls that years ago, in England. She has also trained the physical state of the South when he worked at the Centre for barristers and judges at the Hong Gauteng High Court. She caused a Applied Legal Studies (Wits’ pro Kong Bar and participated in train- stir at her Judicial Service Com- bono law unit), Weiner enquired ing workshops in Australia. mission interview when she de- about a job there, despite having a Being involved in the training of scribed areas of the court as unin- flourishing commercial practice. pupils and juniors, made Weiner habitable He described the role she plays in more aware of the racial imbalance She said the air-conditioners and education and advocacy training in education. Although it has lifts didn’t work, there were no within the profession as indispensa- improved, for many years pupils doors on the toilets and security was ble, and has no doubt that she will who applied to the Bar had obtained non-existent. Files regularly went be as successful on the Bench as she their degrees from historically dis- missing at the registrar’s office. was in private practice. advantaged universities and thus There have been improvements as Weiner learned about commit- started off with a distinct disadvan- the court is presently undergoing ment to community as a child. Her tage. extensive renovations. However, the grandfather founded the Cyrildene She says the government must public areas, such as the toilets, Shul and her mother taught ballet take some responsibility for the remain in a shocking state. in disadvantaged communities long racial imbalance at the Bar. One Conditions at the court need to be before it became popular to do so. cannot blame the organised profes- improved, especially for the public. As an adult she put that lesson sions if people who have been edu- Part of the problem is that any into practice through her volunteer cated in inferior institutions do not repairs fall under the Public Works work with the Waverley Crisis succeed. Department and there is little that Centre, ORT and the Tomorrow The powers that be then made an the judiciary can do to address this Trust, of which she is a trustee. enormous error, she says. Now you problem. Hopefully, legislation When she is not working she can get an LLB without any under- which provides for the courts to be enjoys relaxing with her family, graduate degree. In some universi- administered by the judiciary, will reading, and enthusiastically ties, the LLB is one of the few improve this situation. watching cricket, rugby and foot- degrees in which English is not a Given her commitment to improv- ball. Women who claim Torah as their own SHIRA DRUION this initiative is a very wholesome Says Roth: “I think that the fact experience for me,” says Evian. that we are using a Torah that was TRADITIONALLY TORAH reading The group first started in 1995, donated for a young girl to mark the is done by the men of the Jewish encountering a barrage of criticism occasion of her batmitzvah, is very community. But, on Simchat Torah and disapproval. Adina Roth, significant. To me, this is karma.” every year, a group of passionate Limmud lecturer and participant, Rabbi Avi Weiss from New York, women gather at the home of Sarah casts her mind back to that first as well as a South African rabbi, and Clive Evian in Johannesburg, to Torah reading, and tells how a were responsible for advising the read and dance with the Torah group of men surrounded the flat women on the correct halachic pro- scroll. and confiscated the Torah, prevent- tocol to be followed. Rabbi Weiss It is not an everyday occurrence, ing the reading from taking place. advised them on how best to carry especially in the very traditional cir- But this had not deterred the out this activity and he also encour- cles of Johannesburg Jewry. women and the following year, they aged the women “not to cause divi- Evian speaks about her experi- kept the reading under wraps to sion in the community in the ence of reading from the Torah with avoid a repeat of the previous year. process”. fervour and how very meaningful Roth is currently completing her He told them that they were not this has become for her as well as for clinical psychology internship and allowed to constitute a minyan many other women. “Torah is essen- explains: “For me the Torah is not a (group of 10 men) and were not tially the central nervous system of masculine object, but because of allowed to say “barechu” or “ke- our relationship with G-d. I have history it has been locked into the dusha”. been learning Torah for 40 years, male domain. I, however, view the Leanne Stillerman, a clinical psy- and being able to experience a phys- Torah as a gentle object and cannot chologist and group participant, ical interaction with it, closes the see any reason why women should says: “Today, women are searching circle of the experience.” be forbidden from physical contact for a voice in Judaism, and being The Torah reading takes place on with it.” afforded the opportunity to read the porch of the Evian home, and The Torah that the group uses from the text in the correct way, between 15 and 40 women, depend- was donated to the (now defunct) with the right ‘trop’ (intonation) was ing on circumstances, gather each Wolmarans Street Shul many years intensely powerful for me. year to participate in the festivities. ago by a young girl and her family to “I also found the experience of “We hold the scroll and dance with celebrate the occasion of her bat- dancing and singing alongside other it, and being able to participate in mitzvah. women, profoundly moving.”

AROUND CANTOR, EHUD BARAK TO ADDRESS REFORM BIENNIAL WASHINGTON - House Majority Leader Eric Cantor and Israeli Defence Minister THE Ehud Barak are to address the Union for Reform Judaism's biennial. The URJ announced plans for Cantor (Republican Virginia), the highest-ranking WORLD Jewish member of Congress in history, and Barak, a former prime minister, on NEWS IN Tuesday. President Barack Obama already is slated to speak during the biennial taking place BRIEF from December 14-18 in the Washington suburbs. (JTA) 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 21

WHAT’S ON Sharon Akum [email protected]

DEADLINE PLEASE NOTE: Deadline for all entries is 12:00 on the Friday prior to publication, without exception. Today, Friday (November 25) jewellery, tableware, quality linen, gloves, leather Tuesday (November 29) home and outside. For information, contact Rosemary wear, etc. Time: 09:00 – 14:30. More information: Burke on (011) 640-3919. • JNF Choir is looking for members - sopranos, tenors Sandy (011) 645-2548. • Great Park invites you to “Preparing Your Child for and basses. Venue: Lifestyle Centre, Sandringham Jewish Adulthood” parenting workshops with Trevor • UJW CT adult education division hosts Alyson Kessel Gardens, every Wednesday evening at 18:45 for 19:00. • Second Innings’ end-of-year function has the topic Friedman. Explore effective strategies for guiding and who will talk on “Birkenhead Blooms”. Venue: Stonehaven. Contact Tzippi (011) 640-4287 or 082-320-1555. “Key and Strings... and Beautiful Things”. supporting children during the pre-adolescent and Time: 10:00 for 10:30. Entrance: R20 (incl refreshments). Performers: Betsie Schaap on piano, Evert van adolescent years. Time: 19:45. Cost R30 per session. Enquiries: (021) 434-9555 (mornings only). • UZLC has as its speaker Shirley Zar, on Niekerk on violin. Venue: The Gerald Horwitz Lounge, Booking essential. Contact Goldie, 072-832-2001; "Doornfontein - the Crucible of Activism". Golden Acres, at 10:00 for 10:30.Cost: R60 for mem- [email protected] • Second Innings has a guided tour: “Outing to bers,R80 for non-members. Maropeng in the Cradle of Humankind”. Meet the bus at Sunday (November 27) Wednesday (November 30) the Oxford Shul parking at 08:30. Cost: R150 per per- Monday (November 28) son, includes the bus, entrance fee to Maropeng, and • Our Parents Home Market, cnr Spring & High Road, • Balfour Park Parkinson's Disease Support Group the tour. Lunch for your own account. Contact Grecia on Gardens. Time: 11:00 – 15:00. Fab food, books, bric- • UJW adult education programme hosts political holds its last meeting of the year in the boardroom of (011) 532-9178 before 14:30. a-brac and fun for kids. Tel (011) 489-7000. analyst and research officer of the Helen Suzman Randjes Estate, Randjeslaagte Road, Highlands North. Foundation, Aubrey Matshiqi, who will talk on “A Time: 10:00. The meeting will be followed by a special • UJW adult education programme hosts Dr Lorraine • WIZO Johannesburg’s “Collectable Market” at the Bridge Too Far: Memory and Identity in South tea. Ashleigh Smaller, of a security organisation, will Chaskalson, former lecturer in the department of Norwood Mall. Napery, silver, plateware, art pieces, Africa”. Time 09:30. speak on keeping oneself and one's family safe at English at Wits, on contemporary poetry, at 09:30. Sudoku Puzzle 27 CROSSWORD NO 234 (Medium, difficulty rating 0.53) BY LEAH SIMON Note to readers: ACROSS: SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD NO 233 724 Our bridge column and our Sudoku puzzle alternate 1. He stands to inherit the tune, we hear (4) ACROSS: 64 85 week by week. 3. Having confused date, mule is copied (8) 1. Heat; 3. Monastic; 8. Lost; 9. Headline; 11. 8. Sent around to bird’s home (4) Birthday cake; 13. Canopy; 14. Stoned; 17. Answer - Puzzle 26 9. Attendance at the gifts, we hear (8) Sharp shooter; 20. Luminous; 21. Drab; 22. 69 8 11. It’s been told to swing low (5, 7) Resisted; 23. Else. 627483591 13. Being badly named, Penny will derange us 2 165 (6) DOWN: 493651827 14. Aim for a steeple (6) 1. Hold back; 2. Also ran; 4. Operas; 5. 815972436 17. Sweet marks on colourful clothing? (5, 7) Abdication; 6. Thick; 7. Chef; 10. 16 20. The way an artist would approach it? (4, 4) Chaperones; 12. Adorable; 15. Natural; 16. 978314265 21. Either way, it’s midday (4) Assume; 18. Homes; 19. Slur. 483 2341526978 22. Find her with Saudi citizen and another 562897314 girl (8) 23. Still, I find the monster (4) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 467 154269783 286735149 DOWN: 85 7 6 1. Good-looking limb gets a bit (8) 8 9 739148652 2. Rather sainted, somehow (7) 4. Ruin spilt ash for the girl (6) 10 194 * Answer to follow with 5. If nothing else works, go to final 11 next puzzle holiday destination (4, 6) 6. Flavour adds nothing to the dance 12 (5) 13 14 15 7. Any way you look at it, that’s what has to be done (4) 16 10. At 22h00, waltz into presence (10) 12. Like shin broken in Finnish capi- 17 18 tal (8) 19 15. Beg one politician for mythology (7) 16. Raise learner awkwardly to 20 21 Jewish state (6) 18. Give animal an apple, hiding girl (5) 22 23 19. Go east and return to girl (4)

Terms and conditions apply 22 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 ‘My, you haven’t Myriad prizes for top succahs President of the Federation of and posters Synagogues Women’s Guilds of SA, aged at all!’ Devorah Nates, with artist and guest speaker Susan Woolf, admiring one Recently, the Federation of the 3D kosher posters. of Synagogues Women’s Guilds of South Africa hosted their annual awards ceremony, celebrating good deeds and creativity in the community.

ROBYN SASSEN the late Rebbetzen Doreen Bender, that the school PHOTOGRAPH: ILAN OSSENDRYVER project be developed into an inter-school competi- tion. COMMUNAL SUCCAHS were judged by president This year, it had three- and two-dimensional sec- of the organisation, Devorah Nates, who, with her tions. “How wonderful it is,” said Nates, “in this co-judges, travelled the length and breadth of technologically sophisticated era, to see young peo- COLIN LEVIN reunion for Israel in 2014,where Jewish Johannesburg during chol ha moed Succot. ple still using their creative juices.” CLASS OF ’63 - ‘74 we hope to have the majority “It’s an initiative which has been in place for years Of the 15 prize-winners, first place was shared by present. and years,” she explained. King David Victory Park’s Jonathan Sidi and THE KING David Victory Park This picture of the 1963 - 1974 There were two joint winners in the shul catego- Rachel Asoulin for their three-dimensional work, group of learners of the years group, was taken on Monday ry: Oxford and Linksfield; “and I couldn’t stop and Gila Odes from Hirsch Lyons and Amanda 1963 to 1974, have a very strong night November 14 in Norwood, there,” said Nates, commenting on the beauty of Swirsky from King David Sandton, for their two- Facebook page that has gathered where we had 19 happy people communal creativity. Second prize was shared by dimensional work. and reunited 65 members of that together. Cyrildene and Northcliff Shuls; third prize went to Chairman of the Pine Street Shul Women’s group, scattered all over the Front: Adana Rose Klass; and Sandton Shul. Guild, Sheila Musnitzky, passed away close to a world. Stephen Davimes. Second row: In the category for Jewish institutions, the first decade ago. In her honour, her family donated a Eleanor Perlin came in from Deana Bomhof; Eleanor Perlin; prize was shared by Sandringham Gardens and trophy to the Federation of Synagogues, to be Brazil and we decided to get the Colin Levin; Arlene Scalzullo; Selwyn Segal; second prize went to Our Parents awarded to a guild or a person who makes an out- Johannesburg contingent togeth- Shaun Meyerson; Adele Meyer; Home; third to Arcadia; and fourth was shared by standing communal contribution. er. and Arlene Berry. Third row: Hatikvah House and Sandringham Lodge. The recipient of the Sheila Musnitzky Award for This group was always a very Hilary Joffe; Shoshana Stern; Celebrating the creativity of the youth, is the 2011 went to the Emmarentia Shul Ladies’ Guild, close-knit special crowd at school Anna Louise Shapiro; Sharron kosher poster competition, which developed in the “one of the last ladies’ guilds which still functions and this was evidenced by the Wolder; Melinda Silverman; and mid-1980s from the curriculum taught to grade 6s as such”, according to Nates. The guild comprises enthusiasm shown and the full Lynton Lurie. Back: Cecil at Yeshiva College. It was the suggestion of one of nine women; the prize was received by Reva turnout. Wulfsohn; Daniel Metter; Russel the Federation of Synagogues former presidents, Rudolph, a former mayoress of Johannesburg. We are planning our 40th Rottanberg; and Colin Fisher. 25 November - 02 December 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 LIFTS LIFTS FOR SALE ACCOMMODATION TO LET/SHARE BUSINESSES BEST SERVICE EXCELLENT, RELIABLE DRIVER AT YOUR ROYAL LINKSFIELD / Modern spacious vehicle SERVICE BEREA PLASTICS SANDRINGHAM Pax 6 to lift you anywhere/ 2 beds, 2 baths, open- Convenient and safe anytime 24 hours. Distributor of durable plan kitchen, lounge & din- transfers from A to B Call Gershon strength imported silver ing area, 1 carport, 1 071-974-5573. parking, small garden. Classifieds Pip Friedman looking plastic cutlery ! R8 500 pm plus dep of To book your classified notice or advert contact: Tel (011) 023-8160, Fax 086-634-7935, email: [email protected] 083-267-3281 EX-ISRAELI SERVICEMAN New packaging R12,750.00 Offers lifts to airport and IMPORTANT NOTICE - The Jewish Report runs HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED ADVERT: [email protected] Call June appointments etc. available adverts in the Classified section in good faith, 1. Only adverts sent via email to [email protected] will be accepted. 2. You will be advised www.dialalift.co.za 083-226-3741 Don’t drink and drive. 40 pieces per pack however we cannot be responsible for the on cost & payment details. 3. Payment is prior to the advert appearing. 4. Our banking details: BRIAN K LIFT ALL HOURS! quality of services offered and claims made. SA Jewish Report, Nedbank Randburg, Account Number: 1984 514 865, Branch Code: 198405 SERVICE & COURIER Call Neil 072-050-9927 (40 knives, 40 forks, HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION “AIRPORT SPECIAL R140” DEADLINE for BOOKING and PAYMENT is Tuesday 12 pm. (If deadline is missed the advert will appear (when payment is received) in the next edition) Secure, comfortable & safe. IRENE'S SCHLEP 40 spoons) BANTRY BAY Anywhere 24/7. (JHB – PTA) SERVICE Individually packed! KOSHER HOLIDAY HOME NOTICES PERSONAL Call Brian on I will take you anywhere: Available Dec 21 - Jan 8 Contact Bernard 4 Bedroom home with 3 baths – BARMITZVAH 072-366-4262 school, shops, doctor, friends Micro finance SOULMATES and airport. Honest and 083-260-6778 Sleeps lots! Mazeltov COUNTRYWIDE trustworthy Pool, double garage, DStv, HD to Benjamin Morris Meet many beautiful Schlepped by Irene PVR, Wi-Fi, computers, air-con, Company is looking for a manager / con- Parshat Toldot handsome singles 072-356-0282 HOME SERVICES pool table, patio, Weber, gas- sultant with maths & acc, must be comput- November 26, 2011. Ages 18-75 yrs, to meet, Not on Shabbat GENERAL braai. Close to shops, shuls, er literate. With special love, such as pretty doctor, 25yr. Clifton etc. your proud parents advocate, 56yr. artist, 29yr. APPLIANCE REPAIRS On the level in quiet cul-de-sac E-mail CV to: Steve & Sue, analyst, 68yr. pretty CEO, 26yr. IVAN WANTS ON-SITE next to tennis club. [email protected] sisters, Shir, Rashaeli and Leah, model, 32yr. laywers 28, 34, 43, TO LIFT YOU! Stoves, washing-machines, R3 000 per day negotiable, 53, 65, 70yr. millionaires 55, 63, depending on duration. or fax to: 086 564 4611 grandparents, aunts, uncles & tumbledriers, dishwashers & cousins. 45, 63yr. engineers 45, 39, 58yr. Punctual, reliable, fridges. Free quotations! Maid & car available. librarians 36, 44, 27yr, trustworthy. Call Jason 082-401-8239 Reference regarding kashrut BIRTHS etc, etc must be provided. 082-357-3616 JHB/Sandton/ This is a large, older home UNVEILING HANDYMAN (not mint) in very convenient The unveiling for the late SERVICES OR Tambo/ position. Freda & Derek Weinberg HEALTH & BEAUTY Lanseria/Pretoria NO JOB TOO Call Cliff 083-626-4152 will take place on Sunday CAPE TOWN morning SHUTTLE outings for retirees ODD!! Rooms to rent For your December 4, at 11:30 Cell: Reasonable rates in comfortable kosher home in at West Park Jewish Cemetery. ONE-STOP COMING TO Sea Point from Jan 1, 2012 Grave numbers U9562A 082-962-5007 and reliable. CALL 079-247-7532 beauty CAPE TOWN? and U9561A Beegone Bee-Removal ! Friends and family please treatments. AFFORDABLE VACANCIES take note. LIFTS Call Ruth now. RATES. Carl Meyer: EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGE LIFTS AVAILABLE COMMUNITY NOTICES (011) 616-4305 BOOKKEEPER AIRPORT For all age groups and to all 082-337-7237. Qualified very Pastel experi- House calls done areas in Jhb, Sandton TRANSFERS enced, part-time subcontract Investor needed and airport. work from home for immediate for Social FROM R200 Contact Johnny PROPERTY TO LET LIFTS start.. Lots of work between now 082-328-3070 or ACCOMMODATION TO LET/SHARE Development and mid-December. NEW 082-876-9042 Environmental TO RENT, GLENHAZEL E-mail AIRPORT SERVICE Trust. COMFORTABLE Newly renovated secure, luxuri- [email protected] JHB 083-496-7490 VEHICLE ous 3-bedroom townhouse cen- with hourly remuneration tral to shuls. request. PHONE ANDY Contact 082-855-8135. CONSECRATIONS Reliable, Reasonable Rates! 082-336-9780 Opportunity for computer- smart person Contact Arnold, COTTAGE TO LET (Independent contractor) with 082-447-0185 HIGHLANDS NORTH pleasant phone skills to work 011-454-1193 RENOVATED PRIVATE & SECURE 32 hours per week, CARI’S (011) 440-0169 no Jewish, end-of-year or COMFY CAB 076-686-8259 public holidays. Airport Immediate start I will drive you GRESSWOLD - e-mail Shuttle anywhere in and VAUDE TO LET [email protected] 3 bedroomed, 2 bathroomed, Tranfers SMILE-LEE'S LIFTS around Jhb. n-facing flat. A reliable lift service. from R170 Contact Rasheel FREELANCE I specialise in school Specialising in lifts to and from Reasonable, Reliable 073- 216-1212 kids and the elderly. airports, shops, appointments, BOOKKEEPER casinos and courier. SAM Weekdays & week- GLENHAZEL Call Charna 083-391-6612 (011) 728-5219 GARDEN FLAT TO RENT IN SPECIALISING IN 083-627-8516 ends. GOODLUCK MISCELLANEOUS GLENHEATH. SUNNY, MEDICAL ACCOUNTS Reliable and SECURE, 1 BEDROOM , A-TAXI SERVICE To Yossi and Sigalle punctual FREE MEDAL IDENTIFICA- CLOSE TO ALL AMENITIES. SMALL BUSINESSES Good luck for your exams.! Let Warren Pogorelsky chauffeur Call Carol TIONS OFFERED LOCK-UP GARAGE. We are very proud of both you to your destination in Jo’burg (by medaleExpert) R5 500 INCLUDES ELECTRICI- CONTACT MYRA of you. Love and back only R100 round trip. 083-375-2071 Contact:Anthony TY AND M-NET. Aba and Mommy Tel: 082-399-6187 Tel/Fax (021) 438-2702 PHONE: 082-394-5725 [email protected] 083-600-4294 [email protected]

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT – CHEVRAH PRINT FAIRMOUNT/ GLENHAZEL FURNISHED VEHICLES KADISHA COMMUNITY SOCIAL SERVICES RENTAL. WANTED New, modern bright, 1 bed 1 Our organisation is looking for a fulltime Administrative Assistant. bath. Excellent security. Exec IF YOU WANT TO furnished. Top floor-2 balconies- The candidate must have advanced computer skills viz Word, Excel, views. Secure underground BUY OR SELL Access, and PowerPoint, the ability to work with, develop and maintain parking. Close to shuls and A VEHICLE databases and administrative systems. Ability to work with basic shops. Avail Immediately. R7 000 pm. Short-term rental by Contact: figures, statistics, is an advantage. special arrangement. Solly Kramer To work within a team, to assist with general office administration, Neil 083-408-8821 082-922-3597 typing of confidential reports and documents, data capturing, minute taking, reception duties, a good command of the English language for ARE YOU Do you rent out EMIGRATING correspondence. property in AND WANT TO SELL The incumbent must have strong interpersonal and communication Gauteng? YOUR VEHICLE? skills and the ability to handle all calls in a diplomatic and professional Do you have prob- TUITION & EDUCATION manner. Must be able to work well under pressure and have lems with non-paying knowledge of Jewish religion, practices and culture tenants? Do you have Only short-listed applicants will be responded to. REAL ESTATE problems with housing tribunal? BUSINESS Please contact Interested candidates please forward a current CV to I CAN HELP! Solly Kramer [email protected], fax, 0866327774 or SCHOOL Telephone John 082-922-3597 Private Bag X1, Sandringham, 2131. www.rebs.co.za 071-414-1088 anytime 24 SA JEWISH REPORT 25 November - 02 December 2011 Jewish owners hope for a sunny Summer Cup

JACK MILNER

A NUMBER of Jewish own- ers will be hoping their hors- es can lead the way home in this weekend’s prestigious Sansui Summer Cup to be run over 2000m at Turffon- tein. Avi Barit meets chess Larry Nestadt and Ber- nard Kantor will be hoping Perana can put his best foot forward and capture the grandmaster Kasparov R1,2-million first prize. He is conditioned by champion trainer Mike de Kock who Owners Larry Nestadt and Bernard Kantor will hope Avi Barit plots has always believed the that Perana will finally fulfil his tremendous potential. his course in Australian-bred runner is his match capable of a Grade 1 win, but horses in which Greg Blank has an interest against one of somehow Perana has let them down badly - Regal Ransom at 66-1 and Power Park at the greatest over the last year. 100-1. However, at his best, Regal Ransom chess champi- The decision was taken to geld the horse would be a big runner and one would have to ons of all time, in May, and after a long rest, he came out to go back quite a while to find the last time he run third in a Pinnacle Stakes over 1800m at Garry carried just 52,5kg. He loves the wet going Turffontein. That gave many pundits the Kasparov. and any further rain would enhance his optimistic belief that he would repeat his chances. win of last year in the Grade 2 Victory Moon The Tote is paying out on the first six Handicap. places and it would come as no surprise to A year ago Perana ducked out sharply, find Regal Ransom in one of those positions. looked well beaten but fought back well to It is also rare these days to find Anton win the race, but this year he dug his toes in Marcus on a 33-1 shot in a feature race, but shortly after the start and took no interest, this year he rides Rudra for De Kock. The dropping out to trail by 34 lengths behind seven-year-old won this race in 2008 and is the winner, Jet Jamboree. also partial to soft going. In fact, he has not Despite that shocker, money came for the finished out of the placings in eight starts in horse and he is currently trading at 8-1, not the wet, so he too could be a decent place a very attractive price based on his current bet. form. Nevertheless, he is a talented individ- For my money I see it as a race between JACK MILNER Kasparov became world champion in 1984 ual - if in the mood - and could win. He will Pierre Jourdan, The Apache, Ilsanpietro in a second challenge to Anatoly Karpov. be ridden by Anthony Delpech who has been and Black Wing. My best outsider is IT HAS to be every youngster’s dream to They had met earlier that year, but after 42 the winning rider in the last two Durban Magical, trained by Ormond Ferraris who is meet one of his or her idols, but for most that games without a result, Florencio Cam- Julys. in partnership with another Jewish owner, desire turns into nothing more than a pipe pomanes, president of Fédération Inter- Right at the bottom of the betting are two Harry Izikowitz. dream. nationale des Échecs (FIDE), called off the However, for Avi Barit it came true as the challenge and a new match was announced young chess player not only was able to meet to start a few months later. The termination six-times world chess champion Garry was controversial, as both players stated that Kasparov, but also had the opportunity to they preferred the match to continue. play a match against him. Barit is Jewish and Announcing his decision at a media con- Kasparov has a Jewish father. ference, Campomanes cited the health of the Kasparov came to South Africa earlier this players, which had been strained by the month to form a joint venture with Pretoria- length of the match. based chess educational project Moves for The second Karpov-Kasparov match in Life (MFL), of which President Jacob Zuma 1985, was organised in Moscow as the best of is patron. 24 games where the first player to win 12 During his stay, Johannesburg played host points would claim the World Champion to a “simultaneous match”, in which Kas- title. The scores from the terminated match parov took on 28 South African chess players. would not carry over. But in the event of a A large crowd packed the auditorium to get a 12–12 draw, the title would remain with glimpse of the former world champion, and Karpov. they were not disappointed. On November 9, 1985, Kasparov secured The format was for the chess grandmaster the title by a score of 13–11, winning the 24th to play the first move and then the opponent game with Black, using a Sicilian defence. to continue with his or her move. He was 22 years old at the time, making Avi, a former King David Linksfield schol- him the youngest ever world champion, and ar, who is currently studying at the breaking the record held by Mikhail Tal for University of Pretoria, was one of those 28 over 20 years. Kasparov's win as Black in the competitors. The game lasted 36 moves 16th game has been recognised as one of the before Avi found himself in a losing position all-time masterpieces in chess history. and resigned. Kasparov did not lose one Kasparov went on to defend the title five match. He drew two. more times and it was not until 2000 that he After the event Kasparov announced that lost to Vladimir Kramnik. He remained the he wished to link his Kasparov Chess No 1 ranked player until 2005. Foundation to MFL to take the successful In another South African connection, it MFL formula to other African countries and transpires that Kasparov is currently man- that he planned to work with MFL to make aged by former tennis impresario Owen Johannesburg the chess capital of Africa. Williams. Williams promoted the SA Open in "I was greatly inspired by the words of its heyday in the 1970s and brought players President Zuma last October, when he spoke like Bjorn Borg, Arthur Ashe Guilermo Vilas so movingly on the many benefits of chess and Jimmy Connors to play in South Africa. for children and of his remarkable connec- Later he emigrated to the US and after four tion to my beloved game. years of retirement living in New York City, “I am happy to join him and the South Williams moved to Florida to become execu- African Moves for Life programme in a com- tive chairman of Masters International, a mitment to bringing chess to schools across start-up sports marketing company. the country and for turning Johannesburg Nick Price was the major client as was into the continental capital for chess." Ernie Els for a short period. Other golfing Kasparov was born Garry Kimovich clients included Robert Allenby, Michael Weinstein in Baku, Azerbaijan, which was at Campbell and David Leadbetter. the time part of the Soviet Union, to an Kasparov joined Masters in December 1995 Armenian mother and Jewish father. He first and a couple of years later Williams and began the serious study of chess after he Kasparov left Masters and started SMSI, Inc came across a chess problem set up by his (Sports Management Strategies Interna- parents and proposed a solution. tional). His father, Kim Moiseyevich Weinstein, The conversion from tennis globe-trot- died of leukaemia when Garry was seven ting to the chess tour, brought about a new years old. At the age of 12, he adopted his set of destinations for Williams. The world mother's Armenian surname, Gasparyan, of chess includes the old Yugoslavia, places modifying it to a more Russian version, like Reykjavik, Linares, Bled, Wijk-aan-Zee, Kasparov. Jerusalem and parts of the old USSR.