March 6 2015 / 15 Adar 5775 Volume 19 – Number 8

A humdinger of an SAZF conference south african awaits. Good speakers and scintillating topics. (page 4) Jewish Report www.sajr.co.za

Photo: Ilan Ossendryver Photo: Iran: It’s a bad deal Bibi tells US Congress

Israeli Prime Minister addressed a joint session of the US Congress on Tuesday, following a six-week build-up that raised questions about the propriety of an Israeli prime minister using Congress as a platform for his views two weeks before elections in his own country. Netanyahu warned against the deal being negotiated between Iran and world powers, saying it would not block Iran’s way to obtain nuclear weapons, but rather pave the way to a nuclear bomb. Contrary to expectations raised in briefings by Netanyahu’s staff ahead of his speech, he revealed no classified information regarding the emerging agreement with Iran. Although the speech had caused tensions between Netanyahu and the White House, President contained any major fallout, telling news sources on Monday that he would meet Netanyahu again, soon after ’s March 17 elections, if the prime minister gets re-elected. See page 6.

Born free or born frum – a AIPAC wants to talk Iran, In whose name does Bibi IAW: SAUJS and BDS Earl Grainger faces his glass half full or is it half but can’t get away from speak? (again) square up acid test empty? ‘Speechgate’ On what basis did Israeli PM The annual week-long tussle on It’s always an advantage to have Living a committed Jewish life AIPAC on Sunday couldn’t seem Benjamin Netanyahu claim to campuses around the country is in a winning start when one moves takes nothing less than greatness. to get away from the controversy speak for the entire Jewish full swing. into a new job. surrounding Netanyahu’s people? 2 Iran speech. 3 7 10 16 Your keY to success in Birdhaven, Dunkeld, Melrose Estate, Rosebank and Surrounds

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Born free or born frum - a glass half full The Jewish World or is it empty? in seven seconds

MICHAEL BELLING Madonna speaks out against anti-Semitism LONDON -Madonna this week compared today’s to Nazi Living a committed Jewish life took nothing less than greatness, Germany. Speaking out against anti-Semitism and racism in France, Rabbi Dovi Goldstein, spiritual leader of Ohr Someach Savoy, said the singer described the situation as “scary”, claiming that the country at a debate on “Who is a Better Jew: Born Frum or Born Free?” at had lost its tradition of welcoming foreigners and making them feel at the Sydenham Community Centre at the Sydenham-Highlands home - Daily Mail North Synagogue. The debate was the second in the 2015 Johannesburg College Hostility towards Jews on US campuses of Adult Education (CAJE) learning events. WASHINGTON - A survey of anti-Semitism at American colleges released Speaking in favour of “born free”, Jews born into secular environ- last week shows that significant hostility is directed at Jews on US ments, Rabbi Goldstein said three elements were required for campuses. The National Demographic Survey of American Jewish greatness: College Students, found that 54 per cent of Jewish students experienced • Inspiration, which was hard to come by. The secret lay in doing anti-Semitism on campus in the first six months of the 2013 - 2014 something or having something new or fresh. The same applied academic year. – Religious News Service to Judaism. “Who is a better Jew: Born Frum or Born Free?” was debated by • Challenge and sacrifice. Fulfilment came from doing something Rabbi Dovi Goldstein (left) and Rabbi Gidon Fox (right), under the Israel and sign ‘historic’ water deal auspices of CAJE. Rabbi Yehuda Stern (centre) chaired the debate. difficult, otherwise it would be easy come, easy go. Nothing good JERUSALEM - Israel and Jordan have signed a “historic” water co- came from anything easy. He posed the question: If you had the choice, would you rather operation agreement to carry out the “Red-Dead” project, which will • Commitment, which born free Jews had in abundance. The be born free or be born frum? supply water for both and Jordanians and replenish the dwindling secret of commitment was choice. This commitment came natu- He disputed that born free was the antithesis of born frum. Dead Sea. - Times of Israel rally to born free Jews who became ba’alei teshuvah, returning “Born frum is the only really born free,” he said. to Judaism. It allowed the freedom to choose to live as a Jew and not have Film banned over scenes of neo-Nazis terrorising Jewish family The Talmud taught that the most righteous could not stand one’s life ruled by the latest fashion, the freedom to express one’s LONDON - A horror film which features scenes of a Jewish family being where the born free stood. identity through his Judaism. terrorised in their home by neo-Nazis, has been banned from Britain. Those born into observant Judaism, the “born frum”, or frum Children copied what they saw. “There is nothing more potent The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) rejected an application to from birth (FFB), often suffered from apathy, as they had not had than what you saw in your home,” he said. screen it. - Jewish Chronicle to make the same sacrifice and did not face the same challenges “The greatest source of education comes from the home. Chil- as those returning to Judaism from a non-observant world. Their dren learn because they see how their parents live, the embodi- Rescue Islam from fanatics Jewish commitment was all they knew. ment of Jewish life. SYDNEY - Western policymakers and pundits say Muslim moderates While both born free and born frum had to live their lives as “There is no greater teacher than experience.” need to step up and rescue their faith from the fanatics who have ba’alei teshuvah, one thing the born free usually had that the FFB There was no such thing as a person who did not have to do hijacked it - an answer that has the advantage of avoiding hateful bigotry often struggled with, was humility. teshuvah, he said. toward hundreds of millions of peaceful, believing Muslims. - Australian “The born free has so much to teach the world and share with He questioned whether he would be able to rise to the occasion Jewish News the world,” Rabbi Goldstein said. as a ba’al teshuvah, saying it was easier to be born frum. Rabbi Gidon Fox, spiritual leader of the Pretoria Hebrew Rabbi Yehuda Stern, who chaired the debate, said that 40 Passing of revered Haredi rabbi Congregation, said whether a person was a good Jew had nothing years ago such a conversation would never have been heard in a LONDON - The death last week of the nonagenarian president of the to do with lineage, whether we were born observant Jews or not, synagogue. Born free ba’alei teshuva were often shunned by other Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations, Rabbi Elchonon Halpern, but with our conduct. born frees. This had changed completely. deprived Golders Green of one of its most influential post-war Jewish figures. - Jewish Chronicle More news on our website www.sajr.co.za Helping to realise dreams Moses is on Mount Sinai in this week’s por- The relevant message is not only true of The pyramid was formed and the catcher tion and is in the process of completing his Esther, Moses or a leader of a community who climbed on top of the layers of people, from rung 40-day sojourn to receive and deliver to Bnei certainly cannot realise a vision for a respective to rung until he was perched very high. Just as Yisrael the Torah and the two Tablets carved out congregation or movement they may be man- he was about to reach out his net to catch the Parshat Ki Tisa of stone with the Ten Commandments. But his dated to lead without the strength of support elusive bird, a fellow on the lower rung of the Reverend Ilan Herrmann trip is cut short because G-d says: “Leich reid” - afforded them, but extends as a very clear and pyramid got thirsty and went off to have a drink. Doornfontein Shul “Go down (the mountain) for your people have personal directive to each one of us. You can guess what happened next. It all came become corrupted.” The incident of the golden Take a look around. Leaders abound. Our a-tumbling down. Benjamin Netanyahu presents the case for calf refers. spouses, children, students, friends, are the The moral is obvious. We are all a part of pyra- Israel’s concern of a nuclear capable Iran to the Rashi citing Chazal explains that the deeper leaders of today and tomorrow - leaders in our mids that enable dreams to be realised. Let us American congress. Is it coincidence that it hap- connotation of you must “go down” is that Mo- homes, in community, in schools and varsities, ensure our cog is secure as we help build the lives pens in the same week we celebrate Purim, an ses cannot remain on the high level he was on, in social, business and political circles. of and opportunities for the people around us. event commemorating a reprieve from what was but had to descend to a lower spiritual level. Through words of encouragement, supportive a genocidal plot against our people in the year He was according to this commentary only gestures, helpful insights, constructive feedback, Shabbat Times 357 BCE? on that elevated plateau because he was being an open ear and conveying a sense of solidar- Parshat Ki Tisa Did Esther need support in presenting her anchored by the Jewish people’s strength of faith ity and support that we are behind them is of March 6/ 15 Adar case to Ahaseurus? Indeed she called on her and devotion to G-d, to his leadership and to the infinite value. March 7 / 16 Adar people to fast and pray for her success. Did Ne- mission. When they collapsed he could no longer The story is told of a unique, precious bird, one tanyahu need support to advance his petition? sustain the level he was on and had to “go down”. of a kind that was aloft a tree so high it could not 18:15 19:04 Johannesburg 18:15 19:49 Cape Town He too prayed at the Kotel before his travel, but To a significant extent, hinged on achieving be reached. It was decided that the only way to 18:06 18:55 Durban certainly without a strong coalition backing him one’s potential is the unified and collective brace net the bird would be to form a pyramid with the 18:15 19:14 Bloemfontein he would not be able to have the opportunity, and underpin that affords a person his or her catcher on the top who would capture the rare 18:15 19:21 Port Elizabeth weight or confidence to do so. ability to strive towards reaching those heights. species. 18:15 19:10 East London

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RON KAMPEAS Israeli Prime Minister relationship, on Tuesday we will encourage WASHINGTON Benjamin Netanyahu Congress to take immediate action on just one: addressing AIPAC on stopping Iran,” Brad Gordon, AIPAC’s legislative For all its focus on Iran, AIPAC on Sunday Monday. director, told the conference. couldn’t seem to get away from the controversy On Tuesday, the last day of the conference, surrounding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin many of the 16 000 activists attending the Netanyahu’s speech to Congress on Tuesday. conference visited Capitol Hill to promote two Speaking to attendees at the launch of the bills and a letter related to the Iran nuclear talks. largest-ever annual conference of the American Democratic lawmakers, as Kohr noted, have Israel Public Affairs Committee, CEO Howard expressed their discomfiture with how Netan- Kohr acknowledged the elephant in the room yahu’s speech was organised, and on Sunday for head on. the first time that unease seemed to extend to a “There’s no question that the way this speech Republican lawmaker. has come about has created a great deal of upset Asked his view on the speech, Senator among Democrats,” Kohr said. Lindsey Graham (Republican South Carolina), a “It frankly may have upset people in this sponsor of the bill that would require congres- room,” he said. “All of us should be concerned going ahead as planned with his controversial half of American voters believe that Republican sional review of an Iran deal, referred to Net- [who] care about the bipartisan nature of the speech to Congress. lawmakers should not have invited Israel’s anyahu as a “politician” and said he preferred relationship.” “I deeply appreciate all that President [Barack] prime minister to speak to Congress without hearing from AIPAC activists. The notion that anyone attending an event Obama has done for Israel: security co-opera- first notifying Obama, a Wall Street Journal/ “I will listen to him and then I’ll decide what’s for America’s premier pro-Israel lobby might be tion, intelligence sharing, support at the United NBC poll found. good for America,” Graham pointedly said, em- unhappy with the sitting Israeli prime minister Nations,” Netanyahu said in remarks that drew Some 48 per cent of voters polled said that phasising Netanyahu’s status as a foreign leader, has not haunted the organisation since the early multiple standing ovations. “I am deeply grate- the president should have been consulted and during a panel discussion on Monday morning. 1990s, when it suffered the opprobrium of the ful for this support and so should you be.” 30 per cent said they believed the invitation “To my AIPAC friends, you’re going to late Yitzhak Rabin, who thought AIPAC overly However, he said his differences with the proffered by House Speaker John Boehner make more difference than any speech that aggressive in its tactics. Netanyahu arranged Obama administration over the course of Iran (Republican, Ohio) was appropriate. any politician can make,” Graham said. And if his speech with Republican leaders in Congress nuclear talks were too important not to take up Kohr himself did not criticise Netanyahu, that weren’t clear enough, the South Carolina while agreeing to keep it a secret from the the offer to speak to Congress. and emphasised that AIPAC was encouraging senator said that given the choice between White House, congressional Democrats and the “I have a moral obligation to speak up in the lawmakers to attend the speech on Tuesday, but Netanyahu and the AIPAC conferees coming to pro-Israel community, including AIPAC, until face of these dangers while there’s still time to his acknowledgment of the legitimacy of being Washington - although no one had asked him to just before it was announced. avert them,” he said. upset about the address cast a shadow over a make such a choice - he preferred AIPAC. Netanyahu’s defenders said his manoeuvring Netanyahu said he regretted that the speech conference that focused on increasing congres- The activists appeared to understand the and the decision to go ahead with the speech had been “misperceived” as partisan and said sional influence on the Iran talks. distinction that Graham was making between were necessary because Netanyahu needed the bipartisan support for Israel was critical. AIPAC’s legislative agenda, which in past Netanyahu and AIPAC. For an audience that widest possible audience for his message - that “Israel should always remain a bipartisan years has featured an Iran component along usually roars its approval at flattery, it delivered the Iran nuclear talks underway were headed issue,” he said. with components on the Middle East peace and tepid applause. for catastrophic results that could leave Iran a AIPAC had wanted to use the conference and the US-Israel alliance, this year focused only on Indeed, the rank and file seemed enthused nuclear weapons threshold state. its massive lobbying finale to shore up support Iran. about Netanyahu’s speech - the mere mention In his own speech to AIPAC on Monday for the Iran bills among Democrats. Yet Netan- “While we will continue to lobby on many of it during the first session, by a moderator, morning, Netanyahu expressed few regrets for yahu’s speech kept getting in the way. Nearly important issues to strengthen the US-Israel evinced roaring applause. (JTA) Anyone in SA can vote in Israeli mock election ANT KATZ

The Israeli Embassy in South is host- ing a mock election campaign for the upcom- ing Israeli elections on March 17 and wants as many South African citizens as possible to take part. It’s not only open to Jewish South Africans and Israelis in the country, but to everyone who cares to vote. Sound crazy? “Not at all,” says the embassy’s deputy head of mission, Michael Freeman. In a unique initiative, the embassy in has created a website - www. israeldemocracy.co.za - which will go live next week. They are also going on a nation- wide publicity campaign to promote the purpose of the exercise is to demonstrate novel venture which encourages the general and highlight the vibrant democracy of population of the country to cast a vote - but Israel,” said Freeman. obviously this is a mock election. Christian, Muslim, Bedouin, Druze and “We are holding a nationwide poll which other minority citizens enjoy all the same will track how South Africans feel about freedoms and rights as any other Israeli the upcoming Israeli elections,” explains citizen, he says, and Arab political par- Freeman. The site was designed and built in ties participate fully in Israel’s democracy. South Africa and gives each party’s platform Twelve members of the outgoing are for the Israeli election. This will expose of Arabic descent. South Africans to the political playing field To demonstrate how democratic Israel is, in Israel and explain how Israel’s electoral says Freeman, “we are going to be publicising system works. this through as many media formats as we “We are hoping to get everyone in South can”, with the objective of “allowing people Africa voting,” Freeman told Jewish Report. to learn and understand more about the To help encourage people to vote, the em- democratic system in Israel.” bassy will be giving away thousands of rands The website also offers information about worth of prizes - from an iPad, to Israeli the demographic breakdown of Israel’s wines and Israeli tech items. Winners will be population, facts about Israel as a democracy drawn randomly. and the role of Arabs and other minorities, An individual is only allowed to vote once including women, within the democratic and the mock election will close on Monday process. March 16, a day before the real election. The What if the majority of votes cast in South South African mock election results will be Africa are, for instance, for Arab parties? published on the Monday evening on Jewish Jewish Report asked Freeman. Unfazed, he Report Online. replies that this would be perfect: “It will Why go to all this trouble? “The underlying prove how democratic we really are.” 4 SA JEWISH REPORT Community 6 – 13 March 2015 A humdinger of an SAZF A cornucopia of study conference awaits opportunities on offer SUZANNE BELLING There are two other drawcards in the mayor of Jerusalem Nir Barkat, and Natan Sharansky, ANT KATZ “Israel, Nation of Creation” is the theme of chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel. what promises to be the biggest and best at- “I don’t think the Zionist Federation ever has The Israel Centre in Johannesburg has tended conference yet of the South African Zi- done anything like this before and is unlikely to brought representatives of six Masa-related, onist Federation, with an unequalled line-up of do it again. I urge people to come and make hay higher learning institutions in Israel to top speakers and visitors both for the opening while the sun shines,” Feldman said. South Africa to meet and talk on their night this Saturday (March 7) The opening night will fea- institutions to SA Jewry in Cape Town and and on the following day in the ture messages from Netanyahu, Johannesburg. Sandton Convention Centre. Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein, The representatives are visiting Cape On the opening night the Israeli Ambassador Arthur Town this week and will be in Johannesburg delegates and observers will be Lenk and the SAZF chairman’s for the Israel Expo at the Sandton Conven- treated to two musical inter- report by Avrom Krengel. tion Centre on Sunday. They are speaking at ludes by the Amakhono Choir. There is an extensive Jewish day schools and other schools with The Sunday will incorporate programme on the Sunday large numbers of Jewish learners. They are the first-ever SA/Israeli Expo, with debates and discussions also holding one-on-one meetings with pro- with 110 exhibitors includ- on “Unity, Diversity and spective students and their parents. ing communal organisations, Dissent”, “Africa Rising: Does The Masa programme is designed to local and Israeli businesses and Israel have a Role to Play?”, attract international Jewish students to aliyah experts. “The Purpose of Israel: Sur- study in Israel and offers scholarships and There will be entertainment vival or Tikkun Olam”, “Israel, bursaries towards this end. for children and teenagers, the Innovation Nation”, “The Most of the delegates still have some one- entertainers and lots of prizes, including a car, Impact of Israeli Technology on the African on-one appointments available and their international and local air tickets, hotel accom- Continent”, and “The Four Horsemen of the contact numbers in South Africa appear on modation and jewellery. The history of Zionism Middle East: Threats to the Jewish World”. the Jewish Report Online website. in South Africa as well as an art exhibition, will During the sessions a special award will • Technion - which offers engineering also be featured. be made to SAZF President Jonathan Silke. degrees, taught in English. Giselle Roth- Isla Feldman, national executive director Resolutions will be adopted and there will man, who works in international recruit- of the SAZF, is upbeat about the conference be an announcement of new officebearers. ment and marketing, is the delegate. and the speakers, especially Prof Irwin Cotler, Coincidentally, inside the Convention • IDC - Stephanie Miller, the head regis- Stephanie Miller, the head registrar of the Canadian MP, former Cabinet minister and Centre, discussions will be held on the trar of the International School, is the International School at IDC, is a former South human rights activist, who will come to Johan- Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) representative. She is a former South African who made aliyah from Paarl 27 years nesburg directly from attending the America- organisation and the apartheid analogy, led African. It boasts the largest number of ago. Israel Public Affairs Committee meeting, which by Ben Swartz, vice-chairman of the SAZF, students studying in English in Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while outside, on Maude Street, the BDS • Hebrew University - is represented by • Israel Experience - an arm of the Jewish addressed, before his speech to Congress on plans a protest, supported by Israel Apart- SA-based Carmel Krawitz who is the Agency, offers short- and long-term Tuesday. heid Week. executive director of SA Friends of the programmes. Represented by Noa Hebrew University and Cassi Gewe, a Metuki, who is programmes director student at Hebrew University, who is and in charge of the SA and Australian from King David Linksfield and has desk, Israel Experience creates life- made aliyah. changing experiences in Israel for youth • The Aardvark gap-year programme - rep- and adults, from two-week to year-long resented by Amy Gross, the co-ordinator programmes. of admission and recruitment. Aardvark All of the study opportunities are linked MARCH – JUNE SPECIAL offers a nine month, two-semester pro- to Masa and hence offer Jewish Agency- gramme in which students spend half funded scholarships for students who need the time in Jerusalem and the other half assistance. All offer either on-campus at the Tel Aviv campus. Students can residences or nearby off-campus accom- Book between also elect to do one semester and pick modation which they hire and sub-let to 12 February and 12 March 2015 the campus of their choice. students. Johannesburg / Tel-Aviv / Johannesburg SAJBD, YCL explore common ground From ZAR 8150 on an array of issues As a first step towards improved relations between the SA Jewish Board of Deputies and the Young Com- (INCLUDES fuel surcharge AND airport taxes) munist League, the Board met with the YCL’s national chairman, Yeshan Pillay last week. The meeting, at Subject to change due rate of exchange the request of the Board, explored ways of finding common ground on various issues. Economy Class In a media release the Board said a wide range of issues were discussed. These included finding com- mon culture and nationhood, the Palestinian and Israeli conflict, social cohesion, entrepreneurship, job creation and the role of the youth in building South Africa. Valid for departures On the Palestinian-Israeli situation, Pillay shared his views that from a class perspective the YCL sup- ported Palestinian statehood and SAJBD National Director Wendy Kahn spoke of the SAJBD’s ongoing commitment to the creation of a two-state solution, with a viable Palestinian state living side by side an 17 MARCH – 18 June 2015 Israeli state, with secure borders. Both parties regretted the polarisation that this issue was causing in South African society and ex- SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY pressed the need to create forums for dialogue to find commonalities on issues important to South Airfare subject to change and/or withdrawal without prior notice Africans. Terms & conditions apply Concern was expressed by Pillay that while differing views were important, tolerance was unfortunately E & OE slipping away in the country and that it was essential to address contentious issues without excluding or targeting individuals and communities with differing views. In finding a way to bridge the divide between different communities the idea was discussed to bring diverse youth groups together on projects to find a common identity on matters of mutual concern, and a suggestion was made for an interfaith dialogue forum to bridge the divide between young people. Both parties further decided that future engagements would be arranged between the SAJBD and YCL in the spirit of finding a common culture and in exploring joint projects to develop the country in areas such as entrepreneurship and job creation.

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For more information or to make an appointment with Rabbi Zekry Umhlanga [email protected] or 031 201 5177 Jewish Centre A Project of the Hatikvah Trust 6 SA JEWISH REPORT Opinion and Analysis 6 – 13 March 2015 Jewishsouth african Report Counting and recording ourselves

I am frequently asked the question, how many Jews live in South Africa. I have also been told with a surprising certainty by a non-Jew that there must be at least a million living here. They were shocked when I told them our community had a mere 60 000. At the time, in the late ‘90s, that seemed to be an accepted figure. People assumed there were 120 000 in the heyday and that the figure had halved. Israeli Prime Minister When I returned from almost two decades abroad, I heard I was wrong. A Benjamin Netanyahu slightly higher figure of between 70 000 and 80 000 was bandied about. The addressing the estimate made sense because, as global economic issues impacted business US Congress. centres like New York and London, job markets had changed and young Jew- ish singles and families seemed to be returning from overseas. But I was wrong then too. Speaking to Congress, Netanyahu “When it comes to people coming back,” says Professor Milton Shain, di- rector of the Isaac and Jessie Kaplan Centre for Jewish Studies and Research slams the ‘bad deal’ with Iran at UCT, “the numbers get inflated. You hear of someone coming back and I hear of the same person coming back and suddenly two people are coming RON KAMPEAS stood, whooped and hollered. back.” WASHINGTON “This is a bad deal, it’s a very bad deal and we’re better off Actually, the experts say, the numbers are not increasing or decreasing but without it,” Netanyahu said. are staying even. David Saks, deputy director and senior researcher at the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech, in Republicans said Netanyahu’s speech was a necessary South African Jewish Board of Deputies, says: “Even though religious Jews the end, was about reminding Americans that the enemy of tonic for talks that they say have been conducted without are having more kids, there are still people emigrating and older people dy- your enemy may still be your enemy. transparency. ing, so it evens it out.” He may have lost some friends in the process. Earlier in the week, there were reports that the Obama Netanyahu spoke before the US Congress on Tuesday administration was worried that Netanyahu would reveal Census efforts in South Africa following a six-week build-up that spurred questions about secrets that its negotiators had shared with the Israelis. Ne- In 1996, the post-apartheid South African government conducted its very the propriety of an Israeli prime minister using Congress tanyahu in his speech said that the two main areas of the first population census, collecting, analysing and publishing demographic, as a platform for his views two weeks before elections in emerging agreement that concerned him were easily found economic and social data of South Africans. The 2001 census counted a his country and resulted in a rupture, for now, between the in a Google search. white Jewish population of 61 675. Factoring in people who did not respond, Obama and Netanyahu governments. He said that the two likely outcomes - allowing Iran a lim- it was re-estimated by Saks and other demographers at about 75 000. “To defeat ISIS and let Iran get nuclear weapons would ited uranium enrichment capacity and letting the deal lapse In the next census, 10 years later, Stats SA decided to drop the question on be to win the battle and lose the war,” Netanyahu said dur- after a period of at least 10 years - would leave Iran a nu- religion as it was considered a low priority. Members of the community were ing his 45-minute address, referring to the Islamic State in clear threshold state. Netanyahu instead counselled a deal none too pleased with the decision and people like Professor Shain were furi- Iraq and Syria, the terrorist group targeted by a US-led coa- that would require Iran to moderate its behaviour, ending ous about it. lition. “That is exactly what would happen if the deal cur- its regional troublemaking and backing for terrorism, and The Kaplan Centre did its own detailed survey of the Jewish community rently being negotiated is accepted by Iran.” its threats against Israel. in 1998 and a follow-up survey in 2005, asking a range of interesting ques- Netanyahu spoke at the invitation of the House Speaker Obama administration officials have said that demand- tions: from allegiance to Israel, perceptions of anti-Semitism, optimism John Boehner (Republican Ohio), who in a breach of proto- ing the dismantling of Iran’s enrichment capacity would about the future of the country, degree of religiosity and plans to emigrate. col did not consult the White House, congressional Demo- collapse the talks, in part because it is seen as unrealistic by Professor Shain gives the figure at between 72 000 and 85 000. The high crats or the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. No some of the major powers now squeezing Iran with sanc- end of this figure is higher than previous estimates. It also tries to account Obama administration officials attended the speech, and tions. Additionally, the administration has said that any for a group no-one is quite sure of - the estimated 15 000 Israeli Jews that Vice President Joe Biden, who conventionally co-chairs deal must have a period of duration, and it has resisted come and go. such events with the House speaker, was out of the country. attaching non-nuclear issues to the talks, including Iran’s The Kaplan Centre has not done a follow-up survey since. They estimate it “I know that my speech has been the subject of much behaviour in the region. would cost as much as R1 million to conduct. controversy,” the Israeli leader said early in his address. “I On Monday night, speaking to the American Israel Pub- The number of Jews in the United States has been a cause for debate too. deeply regret that some perceive my being here as political. lic Affairs Committee, Susan Rice, the US national security In 2012, Professor Ira Sheskin and Professor Arnold Dashefsky came to a fig- That was never my intention.” adviser, confirmed reports that any deal would lapse after ure of 6,72 million based on surveys and US census data, but voiced concern Netanyahu praised Obama for his support of Israel, elic- a set period. Rice said the term would be at least 10 years. over double counting and suggested the real figure might be closer to 6 and iting a rare standing ovation for the president from both A nuclear deal with Iran must include access to its nucle- at most 6,4 million. sides of the aisle. (Sheldon Adelson, the billionaire casino ar facilities even after the expiry of restrictions “to provide The Steinhardt Social Research Institute estimated about 6,8 million Jews magnate who is a patron both to Netanyahu and the Re- the international community the assurance that it was not in 2013, while famous Israeli demographer Sergio Della Pergola put the publican Party and was present, did not clap.) pursuing nuclear weapons”, Rice said. number at 5,43 million in 2012, which would mean the US Jewish popula- It was clear, however, that there were those on the Dem- While Netanyahu spoke, thousands of activists attend- tion was smaller than that of Israel, thought to be 6,18 million. Then comes ocratic side who remained unhappy with the speech. At ing the AIPAC Policy Conference here this week visited France, followed by Canada and then the UK. least 60 lawmakers, including one Republican, chose not to Capitol Hill to lobby lawmakers’ offices on two bills that The 2011 National Household Survey in Canada has sparked little debate go, and applause was often perfunctory on the Democratic would subject the talks with Iran to greater congressional (very little sparks debate in Canada!) and is considered accurate. It showed side. involvement. Obama has said he will veto both measures that roughly 329 500 people identified themselves as Jewish, 1 per cent of When Netanyahu strode up the centre aisle of the US should they pass. the population. House of Representatives chamber, it was mostly Repub- This year’s AIPAC conference - the pro-Israel lobby’s larg- licans who rushed to shake his hand. Representative Deb- est ever - drew 16 000 activists representing all 435 con- Attempts for a community database bie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat Florida), chairman of gressional districts. Speakers over the three days included Estimates and census issues aside, we would do well to try to keep a record the Democratic National Committee and one of the most congressional leaders from both parties and Samantha of ourselves. The Cape Town community has been very diligent with its prominent Jews and outspoken Israel supporters in the Power, the US ambassador to the United Nations, along community register and we can commend them. It has the names and con- party, studiously hung back. So did Representative Nancy with Netanyahu and Rice. tact information of almost 15 000 of the 16 000 believed to live in the city. Pelosi (Democrat California), the minority leader in the The primary focus of the conference and the lobbying ef- SAJBD efforts to compile a similar data base of the estimated 50 000 House. forts was on Iran. And although much of the programming or so Jewish residents in Johannesburg, have not worked. Stringent op- “As one who values the US-Israel relationship, and loves was indeed Iran-focused, the controversy surrounding Ne- position arose from certain quarters who worried the information could Israel, I was near tears throughout the Prime Minister’s tanyahu’s congressional speech, and the blow it may have be used against the community, should an anti-Semitic government get speech,” Pelosi said. “Saddened by the insult to the intel- dealt to bipartisan support for Israel, surfaced repeatedly into power, or perhaps they did not want to be contacted for fundraising ligence of the United States as part of the P5 +1 nations, at the event. purposes . and saddened by the condescension toward our knowledge After Netanyahu spoke, an Obama administration offi- But our community should rethink this, even if it means we get the oc- of the threat posed by Iran and our broader commitment to cial told CNN that Netanyahu offered nothing new. casional call to contribute to a good cause. Having a communal database preventing nuclear proliferation.” “Literally, not one new idea, not one single concrete al- allows us to plan effectively for our future. The P5+1 is the acronym for the six major powers negoti- ternative; all rhetoric, no action,” the network quoted the We will then know how many new classrooms, schools, synagogues, old ating with Iran: The United States, , China, Germany anonymous senior administration official as saying. aged homes, and community centres we should be building or not build- France and Great Britain. Obama himself has said that the fallout from the speech ing; in which areas and when. In a context where we don’t know when we Netanyahu received multiple standing ovations. Howev- will not cause permanent damage. On Monday, the presi- might next lose electricity or if our government will always be motivated er, at the point in which he came out most forcefully against dent told Reuters that he would meet Netanyahu again to protect our interests, we should at least support our own leaders’ noble the deal being negotiated, most Democrats remained seat- soon after Israel’s March 17 elections if Netanyahu was re- efforts to be efficient and plan well for our collective future. ed, with some clapping politely, while many Republicans elected. (JTA)

– Vanessa Valkin, Editor More news on our website www.sajr.co.za 6 – 13 March 2015 Community SA JEWISH REPORT 7 World News in Brief In whose Jewish name does Bibi speak? Iran: ‘Nuke Inspections light in 1967 for pre-emptive speech and its negative effect “He doesn’t speak for me will continue’ Israeli strikes against the on the US-Israel relationship: on this… I think it’s a rather TAKING combined armies of Syria and “I think… Iran with an atomic arrogant statement. I think the WASHINGTON - A nuclear deal with Iran must include access to its nuclear facilities even Egypt which were threatening bomb is much more dangerous Jewish community is like any ISSUE after the expiry of restrictions, which would last Israel, starting the Six Day War. than one disagreement or other community. There are Geoff Sifrin at least 10 years, Susan Rice, the US national Menachem Begin concluded another [with the US].” different points of view.” security adviser, told AIPAC. a historic peace treaty with Jews do not march in lockstep. So, can an Israeli prime Rice, addressing the American Israel Public On what basis did Israeli PM Egyptian President Anwar Jewish leaders, including Israeli minister claim to speak on behalf Affairs Committee on Monday, said expecta- Benjamin Netanyahu claim to Sadat in 1979 - for which both ones, are not easily accepted of all Jews? In less than two tions that Iran would cease uranium enrichment speak for the entire Jewish received the Nobel Peace Prize - by all. There have been many weeks Israeli elections take place altogether or that restrictions would be in place people in his controversial giving back to Egypt the entire Jewish “not in my name” and obviously Netanyahu - like indefinitely, were unrealistic. But she added that speech to the US Congress this Sinai Peninsula which had been campaigns relating to Israel all politicians - wants to score intrusive inspections would continue indefinitely. “At the end of any deal, Iran would still be week about Iran? Before leaving captured in the Six Day War and under different leaders. In South points by projecting himself as required to offer comprehensive access to its demolishing the Israeli town of Africa in 2002, one mounted by the champion of Israel and the Jerusalem for Washington he nuclear facilities and to provide the international said: “My responsibility is to Yamit, against the protests of former SA government minister Jewish people. community the assurance that it was not pursu- worry not only about the State many Jews and Israelis. Ronnie Kasrils drew support But the issue is greater than ing nuclear weapons,” she said. of Israel, but also the future of These seminal moves by from a range of Jewish South Israeli electioneering and the Insisting on no enrichment would collapse the the Jewish people… Seventy, past Israeli prime ministers Africans, criticising Israel’s Jewish people. Whatever one alliance the Obama administration had built to 80 years ago no one could raise affected Jews across the world occupation of Palestinian thinks of pre-election posturing, sanction and isolate Iran, factors which had led their voice when there were dramatically. In retrospect, they territories under Prime Minister Netanyahu deserves credit for Iran to agree to nuclear negotiations, Rice said. plans to destroy us. Today… it is are widely understood to have Ariel Sharon. his wake-up call to the world “Let’s remember that sanctions have never my obligation.” been justifiable decisions. At the During last year’s Gaza about the danger of an atomic stopped Iran from advancing its programme,” she said. Without a deal, Rice said, Iran would To the chagrin of his foes, time, however, they required conflict, 500 South African Iran. Whether a Jew in Israel return to enrichment levels it achieved before Netanyahu has projected himself considerable mettle to stand up Jews, describing themselves as or the Diaspora accepts him the terms governing nuclear talks with the major as similar to previous daring to critics and foes and the danger “proudly Jewish” – including as leader, is almost irrelevant powers imposed restrictions, and seek to expand Israeli prime ministers who of things going terribly awry. prominent personalities in compared to the gravity of the its nuclear capability. made controversial decisions, Will Netanyahu be seen in South African and Jewish topic. “And, we’ll lose the unprecedented inspections standing against international years to come as the Jewish society - placed a full page ad in Increasing terrorist attacks, and transparency we have today,” she said. and internal opposition for the Churchill, the leader who had the Sunday Times denouncing particularly those sponsored by Rice also addressed concerns about reports Jewish people’s critical interests. the courage and foresight to Israeli actions under Netanyahu, Iran’s radical theocracy, threaten that any deal restricting Iranian nuclear activities David Ben-Gurion took brush aside opposition and effectively saying it doesn’t the whole world, not just Israeli would expire after 10 - 15 years. the leap in 1948 of declaring diplomatic protocol for the speak for them. and Jewish security. On this “I know that some question a deal of any duration,” she said. “But, it has always been clear the Jewish state when many sake of a life-and-death matter, A current international case issue, Netanyahu does speak for that the pursuit of an agreement of indefinite objected, or believed conditions shouting out the “truth” the in point involves Democratic many people who might disagree duration would result in no agreement at all.” were not right and the new global community and a weak US Senator Dianne Feinstein of with him in other areas. Restrictions would be in place at least for 10 entity would be quickly wiped president were denying? A heroic California, who told CNN she years, she said. out by hostile Arab armies. Levi figure history will applaud? rejected Netanyahu’s “arrogant” Geoff Sifrin is former editor of the “A deal that extends for a decade or more Eshkol, after resisting pressure Netanyahu said as much in claim that he was lobbying for SAJR. He writes this column in his would accomplish this goal better than any other for a hasty attack, gave the green answering critics of his Congress the entire Jewish population. personal capacity. course of action”. (JTA) 8 SA JEWISH REPORT Letters 6 – 13 March 2015 Disclaimer Guidelines for letters The letters page is intended to provide opportunity for a range of views on any given topic to be expressed. Letters up to 400 words get preference. Provide your full name, place of residence, and daytime contact phone Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff number. We do not publish letters under noms de plume. Letters should preferably be e-mailed. Letters may be or directors of the Jewish Report. edited or shortened. The Editor, PO Box 84650, Greenside, 2034 email: [email protected]

Radical Islam will not discriminate between Jew and How millions of Jews left Egypt on the trek home Christian The question (in last week’s paper) illustrate and substantiate our Sages’ 603 550 (Num 1:46). It was said by “Adam” (hijacked on an flight by terrorist Leila Khaled in regarding the extraordinary number claims. The total male population - 1970) that “the real issue is the hypocrisy of those who gave a platform to of Bnei Yisrael that left Egypt after I would like to relate statistical including males below 20 and over people like Khaled...” only 210 years of living there and and mathematical proof towards 60, is very plausibly double the 20 This is partly true but the real issue is education (actually the lack after having arrived in Egypt as only the claim that the Jews in Egypt to 60-year-old male census - at 1,2 thereof). 70 souls, is statistically a very sound multiplied at a miraculous rate. This million males. I watched Khaled’s talk on ITV, and it was barely coherent. Other than the question. proof was expressed by the Alter Rov If there were only 22 273 male words “Zionists, imperialists and Israelis”, she could not string together an Indeed, the Scriptural text of Telshe, Lithuania, Rabbi Eliezer firstborn - the ratio of firstborn male intelligible sentence. (Exodus 12:37) states: “Bnei Yisrael Gordon (1841-1910). to not-firstborn male, is plausibly Her fans were even less mentally acute and I counted fewer than 70 in the journeyed… approximately 600 000 The Midrash (Ex Rab 1) 1:55 (realising some of the firstborn audience. men on foot, besides the children” expounding on the above verse males were included and some were The real problem with people like Khaled is the support that she garners (Targum Yonatan explicitly puts the claims that the Jewish mothers not included in the overall Israelite from government and a naïve person like Kebby Maphatsoe, deputy total number of people at over three would each give birth to six children adult male count). minister of defence. million). at a time (quoted by Rashi). Rabbi If the 22 273 mothers, whose This ignoramus has “advised” the SAJBD “to arm itself with real facts, Our Sages point out that the Lazer Gordon showed how this can firstborn child was a male, gave birth rather than to serve as the insidious hand of the terrorist apartheid growth in population of the Jews in actually be proven via mathematics approximately 10 times during their Israel Zionist state in South Africa”. This is a dangerous and inflammable Egypt was absolutely miraculous and and statistics. lifetime, they would have then given statement by the deputy minister. supernatural. In the book of B’Midbar (Numbers birth to about six male children at Apart from the fact that his use of the word “insidious” is erroneous and Many scriptural sources, some 3:40…) a census of the Israelite a time! out of context, he displays considerable ignorance also, with an arrogant very explicit, such as Exodus 1:7 firstborn males from the age of one (Obviously statistically all these flavour, to demonstrate his hatred toward Jews and Israel. “Bnei Yisrael were fruitful and month old is taken - which totals 22 numbers just need to be doubled to We should be mindful of recent media reports that radical Islamists are prolific and their population 273. account for the female population.) probably using this country as a base for training and financial transactions increased … very, very much (they The total war-eligible and able- and that radicals feel safe here given the state of corruption in the country became so numerous) that the land bodied Israelite males above the Aron Ziegler and the inability of our police to curb crime. (of Egypt) became filled with them” - age of 20 years (until 60) is given as Cyrildene, Johannesburg Maphatsoe, if aware, is either complicit or perhaps preferring to turn a blind eye. Still on Torah and miracles Most South Africans do not countenance the radicalism and terrorist activities currently occurring globally, but it should be borne in mind that In last week’s SAJR Martin Frack raised a host of issues the flourishing land of others to the Jews?” The very the majority who vote for government, are generally unsophisticated and which I will attempt to respond to in this limited space. first comment of Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki), the therefore easily influenced by people such as Maphatsoe. He challenges the statement that the Torah has prime commentator on the Torah addresses this very Radical Islam, ultimately, will not differentiate between Christians and been handed down unchanged and unchallenged for point - it was first promised and given to Avraham (and Jews, of whom there are millions living here in this country and this is the millennia. Indeed, the Torah was transmitted for several his Jewish descendents), later occupied by those foreign core of the problem that government fails to grasp. thousand years largely unchallenged within the Jewish nations and then returned to its rightful owners, the people until the rise of various forms of Biblical criticism Jewish nation. (This is a prime example of the hazards Nathan Cheiman (and its offshoots), gaining steam in the 19th century. I of ignoring the classical commentators and then being Northcliff, Johannesburg think we are both basically in agreement on that. perplexed by the Torah’s narrative of events.) Frack (and the authors he refers to) take as an article Frack does not accept the miraculous events of Miracles in Judaism are well-documented and of faith that the Torah was written by committee some the Torah. Usually the Bible critics’ attacks were/are irrefutable 800 years after the Exodus. This theory was espoused accompanied by a denial of the existence of G-d as by Bible critics in the 1800s based on a flawed literary understood by normative Judaism which leads to a With respect to Martin Frack regarding his reply to Rabbi Pesach analysis that was in vogue at the time. denial of the possibility of miracles. Fishman (Jewish Report, February 27), I believe he should think through That theory is not tenable for a number of reasons, There is a crucial difference between the events of more carefully the whole issue of miracles in Judaism. including the fact that it ignores the entire body of the Exodus and Mt Sinai and the claims of miracles of It is true, of course, that other religions also have their miracle stories. Torah commentary that preceded it that address and other religions. The miracles of Egypt and Mt Sinai were The crucial difference, however, is that whereas these purported miracles explain the very issues that baffle these critics. One national events and had they not occurred their veracity happened only to individuals, those key events recorded in the Torah cannot possibly form an accurate picture of the Torah would have been challenged immediately - not 3 100 were directly witnessed and experienced by the entire Jewish nation. (or anything) while wilfully ignoring all of the relevant years after the fact (or according to Frack 2 300 years Such claims of mass revelation can hardly be forged after the fact. It context and clarification. later). entails convincing people that they (or alternatively their ancestors) Frack is disturbed by the “ethnic cleansing” of The claims of other religions are based on statements themselves experienced something that never actually happened, an the inhabitants of the Promised Land by Moshe. of an individual or small group of followers that are obvious impossibility. Regrettably, Moshe never entered the Land of Israel. more difficult to verify. The fact that throughout history, no other religion has even attempted His comparison of the Jews’ conquest of Israel to the Ultimately though, belief in miracles is not the basis to convince its adherents that either they themselves or even their savagery of the Wermacht is odious and totally ignores for Judaism - the validity of the Torah is its foundation. distant forebears experienced miraculous revelations en masse, seems the distinction between a just war (which at its best In response to the many challenges of Frack, I have to me irrefutable proof that, at the very least, something extraordinary results in death and destruction) and an unjust war and just one challenge - take the time to study the authentic happened to our ancestors in the desert all those centuries ago. Put importantly what actually happened. Were the actions Torah sources that address the questions you have. simply, if it is possible to fabricate traditions of mass revelation after the of the Allies and the Germans in the Second World War fact, then not only the Jews would have done it. also comparable? Rabbi Pesach Fishman Regarding the theory that the Torah was cobbled together by multiple “By what legal and moral right did Hashem donate NorthcliffS hul, Johannesburg authors centuries after the events described, those advocating it have evidently fallen for the quasi-logical sleight of hand known as “assuming Plea to our leaders for goodwill and decorum Looking for information on the conclusion”, whereby one at the outset assumes something to be true beaded Holocaust bracelets and then works backwards to “prove” it. Overseas visitors often comment on the warmth of South Africans, both In the case of “Biblical critics”, it is taken as a given from the outset black and white. The spirit of ubuntu (goodwill) uplifts this great land. About three years ago Jewish Report ran that Judaism’s sacred canon is a human cultural-intellectual construct Nelson Mandela surprised the world with his amazing grace and goodwill a story on a woman who was promoting that merely purports to be of Divine origin. Having thus already towards tough enemies, saving South Africa from a probable racial civil war. Holocaust memorial beaded bracelets secularised Tanach, they then proceed to dissect, analyse and deconstruct He and FW de Klerk did us proud by winning Nobel Peace prizes. to raise funds for charity. The bracelets about its meaning as they would any other piece of literature, and of Yet our present parliament has degenerated into a hateful place where consisted of six yellow beads (representing course end up spinning every manner of academic theories about its members have lost much of Mandela’s grace. Our leaders on most sides the six million who perished in the origin and meaning. hysterically shout each other down, often over relatively petty matters. Holocaust), a pewter disc with a Magen At the same time, of course, they award one another PhDs and declare Instead of debating issues, the arguments have become increasingly Dovid, with the rest black beads. The price themselves to be the reigning scholarly experts, and the whole system personal. Rather play the ball and not the person. was R40 of which R25 went to the old black becomes self-perpetuating. Instead of trying to win political points by trying to impress voters with women who did the beading and R15 to Suffice it to say that the ever-growing numbers of Jewish youngsters vigorous opposition and show that they are effective, parliamentarians Jewish charity. in yeshivot and seminaries around the world have little time for this sort should also give credit where it is due. Rather focus on building up while Many of my friends asked me to buy some of thing. The more one delves into the Torah, the more its Divine origin criticising as well. of these bracelets on their behalf. becomes apparent. For criticism to be effective, it should have meat. To just complain about If any reader can supply me with contact everything will diminish criticism which is important and relevant. details, I would be very grateful. My contact David Saks We often teach our children to be good and have respect, yet we encourage details are cell 083-792-4709 or (031) 562- Johannesburg our leaders to be hateful. No wonder there is so much stress in our society. 9650.

Martin Zagnoev Alwyn Immerman More news on our website www.sajr.co.za Sunningdale Ridge, Johannesburg La Lucia, Durban 6 – 13 March 2015 Community SA JEWISH REPORT 9 Rabbi Marcus awarded an MBE for Holocaust education

LESLIE HARRIS gramme, leading to a partnership with the Holocaust Education Trust. To date about Former South African Rabbi Barry Marcus 25 000 people have been on the trips, who recently received an MBE, made an including prime ministers, teachers and impact on South African Jewry when he led groups of non-Jewish students over the age Johannesburg’s Waverley Shul in the 1980s. of 16. Now rabbi of the Central Synagogue in Lon- “The response has been very positive and don, he is making similar ripples in England. we encourage them to become ambassadors, He is the only rabbi among the 1 164 to tell others what they’ve learned and so honoured in the Queen’s New Year’s list. combat the spread of anti-Semitism.” Last week he was at Buckingham Palace, where the Prince of Wales invested him as a Rabbi Barry Marcus MBE (left) has Member of the Order of the British Empire the award conferred on him by the (MBE), in recognition of his contribution to Prince of Wales during a ceremony Holocaust education. at Buckingham Palace. In October last year he was knighted by the Polish government for his work in Holocaust education and fostering dialogue between the Jewish and other communi- Prices ties. starting from Rabbi Marcus dismisses as “dangerous” NIS 1,580,000 the suggestion that there is more anti- Semitism in Poland than in other countries. “When you do that, you fall into the trap of making wild generalisations about this group or that group and that doesn’t help anybody. “The truth of the matter is that there are more Polish people who have been recog- nised as ‘Righteous Among the Gentiles’ by Yad Vashem than any other nation in Europe.” It would be foolhardy to suggest that there are not people in Poland who harbour enmity towards the Jews. You probably can say that about any country, but you can’t ignore the fact that Poland today is Israel’s second-best friend, after Germany. Both countries vote in support of Israel.” Rabbi Marcus is not surprised at the current wave of anti-Semitism sweeping Europe. Whereas before, the hostility had been driven by Christians, today it is being Pre-sale investment opportunity in Netanya driven by Muslims, who have co-opted the Christian rhetoric for their own purposes. A LIMITED NUMBER OF PRE SALE APARTMENTS “They’ve dug up the Protocols of the IN A BRAND NEW DEVELOPMENT IN A TRANQUIL AREA OF NETANYA Elders of Zion, and Mein Kampff has now been translated into Arabic. They’ve adopted that and adapted it to use in differ- For a private meeting in S.A, ent places.” please contact Barry Cohen There has, however, been a mutation in anti-Semitism over the years. “First they 076-577-2000 / +972-5283-11174 targeted our faith, then with the Nazis it or [email protected] was our race, and now it is the Jewish state Barry is also available for meetings that is being targeted. But it is all a guise, 8th March – 12th March. and we know that it is a guise.” Rabbi Marcus sees the attacks on Jewish communities in Europe as the natural con- If you have been considering getting sequence of unchecked Islamic extremism. “In France, after the attack on Charlie into the Israeli real estate market Hebdo, the guy that went into the super- market made it quite clear that he wanted and haven’t found the right thing, to kill Jews. That is being brushed aside because no one wants to actually deal with then look no further. the reality. There’s been a slow-drip irriga- tion pipe of anti-Semitism being allowed to A brand new development is being flourish.” He sees education as the antidote to anti- built in north Netanya and o ers a Semitism. “You can’t pretend that centuries of hatred didn’t have an effect. It had an selection of large 3 and 4 bedroom effect. And it continues to have an effect. Look at the effects that education had, so apartments. let’s try to counter it by educating people in a much more positive way and to build Completion within 36 months. bridges so that we don’t have to face what we faced in the Second World War.” As part of that education, 15 years ago EASY FINANCING OPTIONS the rabbi pioneered the concept of a one- AND NO LINKAGE day visit to Auschwitz. “I chartered my own plane, took 250 people. We flew in the morning, spent time in Krakow, Auschwitz and Birkenau, then returned to London in the late evening. During the flight I showed videos of Jewish life in Poland before the war and videos of the liberation of Aus- chwitz in 1945.” It soon became a sought-after pro- 10 SA JEWISH REPORT Community 6 – 13 March 2015 IAW: SAUJS and BDS (again) square up

ANT KATZ lobby was heartened by the fact that speaking on the lawns, right oppo- the first two days weren’t rained out site the BDS tent. The annual week-long tussle be- as the case was last year. This has Defend Embrace Invest Support tween BDS and SAUJS on campuses been a boon, says Shulman, as they Israel (Deisi), the SA-based Chris- around the county, is in full swing. have been able to erect their gazebos tian Zionist group, has joined forc- What BDS calls Israel Apartheid and are handing out free ice creams es with SAUJS to promote Israel Week and Jewish students dub “Is- “as a way of engaging the general Awareness Week this year. Part of rael Awareness Week” (IAW) looks student body”. their campaign is to ask Christians to be a draw at this stage. Shulman says SAUJS nationwide to light a candle for Israel. The local arm of US-based NGO has been better organised, having Apart from the traditional cam- Boycott, Divestment & Sanctions learned from their experiences at puses covered by SAUJS’ counter- (Israel), BDS-SA and its many affili- IAW 2014. “There seem to be more IAW events, the Jewish students ates are pitted against the SA Union little events being staged by BDS have spread their wings further for of Jewish Students (SAUJS) - sup- this year,” he says, adding that “so 2015. With a new SAUJS branch ported by a host of Jewish organi- far, it has been less intense and ag- established at Tuks in Pretoria, sations and pro-Israel groups in the gressive.” they have added this campus to annual battle to win the hearts and BDS is also fielding lower profile their activities. Deisi has also been minds of students on campuses. speakers this year, while SAUJS have opening new branches on cam- Some incidents have been report- done the opposite, with various in- puses which has allowed SAUJS to ed however, including forcing Pales- novative new campaigns and top include UWC in Cape Town and to tinian peace activist Bassam Eid to speakers they have brought out, in- bolster their presence at UJ in Jo- end his speech at the University of cluding Father Gabriel Naddaf of the hannesburg. Johannesburg early. Greek Orthodox Church and Bassam SAUJS’ efforts received a boost The Jewish students, says SA Zion- Eid. when the SRC at Tuks refused to en- ist Federation’s Benji Shulman, have Father Naddaf is talking on vari- dorse any IAW events - and, in fact, been better prepared and trained ous campuses on “The Rights of on Thursday the SRC is hosting an this year. This has been “very help- Christians in the Middle East” while “Israel Palestine Awareness Confer- ful in that (the students) are able to Eid, director of the Palestinian Hu- ence”. Father Gabriel Naddaf, a Greek Orthodox priest, who is speaking for SAUJS engage on Israel in a more informa- man Rights Monitoring Group, The innovative approach in 2014 on campuses on “The Rights of Christians in the Middle East”, stops off at a tive manner”, which is crucial as on spoke on “Peace and the Palestinian of bringing Israeli students of mixed local store to buy tomatoes that were developed at, and licensed by, Hebrew some campuses and at certain times, People”. demographic backgrounds to engage University in Jerusalem. the SAUJS tents have more students Also in South Africa for the week students, was so successful that visiting with a genuine interest in is World Union of Jewish Students SAUJS again has a dozen of them on despite the best efforts of BDS-SA’s conference last week. finding out more about Israel. (WUJS) head, Andi Gergly from campuses around the country. UCT supporters like the ANC, Cosas, Co- Jewish Report Online will be “BDS seems to have put more fo- Hungary. She will speak on several even has a Muslim Israeli student in satu and many more. posting daily updates from around cus on UCT in Cape Town this year,” campuses. their contingent. The SA Jewish Board of Deputies, the country with the assistance says Shulman. The speakers have also moved out “Students visit both the BDS and Zionist Federation and Deisi, held a of SAZF’s Benji Shulman. Also see On the Wits campus the pro-Israel of halls at Wits this year and are the SAUJS tents,” says Shulman, protest at BDS’ IAW launch media more pictures on www.sajr.co.za Board, CSO reassure Jewry Zimbabwe communal leader Sam over leaked spy cables Benatar passes on DAVID SAKS

Tributes have flowed in for the late Sam Bena- tar (pictured), president of the Zimbabwe Jew- ish Board of Deputies and one of Zimbabwe Jewry’s most experienced and active commu- nal leaders. Benatar, who was born in the small town of Concession in what was then Southern Rho- desia, passed away following a long illness in Harare, aged 86. Rabbi Moshe Silberhaft, who had a long working relationship with Benatar through his involvement with the African Jewish Congress (AJC), travelled to Harare to deliver a eulogy at his funeral. He said that Benatar had worked ANT KATZ tirelessly to promote the welfare of Zimbabwe- of this at the time, and as a result asked the an Jewry during times of great stress and tur- “The SAJBD and CSO continue to work very Jewish community to be especially vigilant and moil in the country. This included serving as Last year, he received a special award from the closely with South African government security arranged for there to be extra security arrange- president of the African Jewish Congress Zim- AJC for the “multiple contributions… made to services, which are committed to doing every- ments in place during that period. babwe Relief Fund, which assists community the fostering of Jewish communal and religious thing that needs to be done to ensure the safety “The SAJBD and CSO continue to work very members affected by the ongoing economic life in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa”. of our community,” was the assurance given to SA closely with South African government security turmoil in Zimbabwe. Benatar was also a long-serving president of Jewry in a notice this week, co-signed by the SA services, which are committed to doing everything Benatar was a vice-president of the AJC, and the Sephardi Hebrew Congregation in Harare. Jewish Board of Deputies National Chairman Mary that needs to be done to ensure the safety of our in that capacity represented southern African Outside the Jewish community, he was a sen- Kluk and SAJBD President Zev Krengel, as well as community. The CSO also continues to work very Jewry at a number of major Jewish gatherings ior member of a Freemasons lodge in the city. by the CSO management. closely with our shuls, schools and other commu- abroad, including the 2013 World Jewish Con- He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sara, and The assurance was given in the wake of the nal organisations to upgrade their security, both gress meeting in Budapest. daughter, Ingrid. continued publication by the Aljazeera news net- from a physical as well as process point of view. work of leaked spy cables which have shed light “Once again, we call on the Jewish community World News in Brief on the murky world of “Spy vs Spy”, particularly at large to assist us in this area and to minimise between South Africa and Israel. any possible risk,” said the statement to the com- Report: Saudi Arabia may lend Israel airspace for attack on Iran The notice to the community advised: “This munity. JERUSALEM - In closed talks with European lawmakers, Saudi diplomats have expressed their past week has seen progressive revelations in The Board and CSO ask SA Jewry to report any willingness to co-operate with Israel on a possible attack against Iran’s nuclear facilities, Israel’s the media concerning the leaked State Security suspicious activity to the CSO national number Channel 2 television network has reported. Agency cables. A number of these relate directly 086 18 000 18 or the Cape number: 086 18 911 According to the report, however, Saudi officials have said that they would first need to see some to our Jewish community, including information 18. These numbers are both manned 24/7, 365 meaningful progress in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process in order to muster up public support for regarding an envisioned terrorist attack against a days a year. allowing Israel to use Saudi Arabia’s airspace for an attack on Iran. The report comes as Arab governments have expressed deep reservations about the ongoing Jewish installation in Cape Town in 2010.” Follow the ongoing leaks on SA Jewish Report progress in nuclear negotiations between Iran and the P5+1 powers. The two bodies add: “Reference is also made Online, where many of the most interesting items According to a recent Wall Street Journal report, leading Arab countries including Saudi Arabia, to possible attacks against our community over have been published and contextualised. The Qatar, Egypt, and the have said that any nuclear deal that allows Iran to retain Yomtov in September last year. As you will no website, www.sajr.co.za will continue to keep its capacity to enrich uranium, would likely force them to develop their own nuclear capabilities. doubt remember, the SAJBD and CSO were aware users updated. (JNS.org) 6 – 13 March 2015 Social SA JEWISH REPORT 11 JEI 2015 heard some Brave heroes of Israel A big thank you inspiring words tell personal stories for hospital from the Svensons volunteers Photo: Ilan Ossendryvers Photo:

Photo: Trevor Sachs Trevor Photo: OWN CORRESPONDENT

CELESTE EVERITT Moffson Yoni Photo: This past Sunday afternoon Sydenham Shul hosted a delegation of 12 wounded Every year, Helping Hands (the young fundraising division of the IDF soldiers who were injured in the line of duty. The delegation belongs to the JOY GAFIN Chevrah Kadisha) hosts the very popular Jewish Entrepreneur’s organisation, Hope for Heroism and was hosted by Mark and Bendita Gordon, Insight (JEI) event, sponsored by Investec, which attracts over co-ordinators of the delegations to South Africa. Bikkur Cholim held a successful hospital vol- 600 young Jewish people. JEI 2015 took place at Investec’s Audi- Rabbi Yehuda Stern opened the event and introduced the grade R class of the unteers “thank you” meeting last Sunday at the torium on February 17. Sydenham Nursery School who sang Purim songs for the soldiers and presented Waverley Sports Centre. This year’s event was no different from the highly successful them with mishloach manot and get-well cards. The crowd enjoyed sitting under the cool previous ones and bookings filled up faster than ever. The guest Israeli Ambassador to South Africa Arthur Lenk, welcomed the delegation on thatched lapa where they exchanged experienc- speakers, Scott and Ally Svenson from the United States, dis- behalf of the embassy, as did Avrom Krengel on behalf of the South African es and suggestions, while enjoying a sponsored cussed their entrepreneurial journey, which included the founding Zionist Federation and Johannesburg’s Jewish community. breakfast. of the Seattle Coffee Company, Scott’s presidential role at Star- The highlight of the afternoon was hearing from the soldiers themselves. The highlight of the morning was Chief bucks, as well as the founding of Carluccio’s Italian Delicatessen They shared the most compelling tales of how they were injured in combat. They Rabbi Warren Goldstein’s appearance and his and MOD Pizza in downtown Seattle. described the healing process and how they had continued to live their lives and words of wisdom and encouragement. Their presentation was followed by a question and answer ses- build their own families. Many in the audience commented on how inspired they sion and a fantastic prize giveaway. were by these brave heroes of Israel. • Should you be interested in participating in this rewarding mitzvah, please contact Joy on CSO’s ‘Memories of UJW rolls out red carpet for (011) 440-3606 (am). Madiba’ a resounding domestic workers More news on our website www.sajr.co.za CINDY KREE ketsi, Thabitha Moeketsi and Nomiah success PROJECT MANAGER Malumane, who also attended last year, Silver Rimonim, yads and reflected on how they had enjoyed every Thursday February 12, saw a who’s who of the Johannesburg Jew- On February 24, domestic workers in second of the event, from the talks to other silver regalia have ish community and business leaders gathering in support of the and around Johannesburg attended a the demonstration and the tea. mysteriously been removed Community Security Organisation (CSO) at Huddle Park. Zelda la special function in appreciation of all Malumane has worked for Katz’s Grange, long-time personal secretary to Nelson Mandela, and Rory the hard work that they do. daughter, Nikki Wachsberger, for the from the Holy Ark at the Shul Steyn, Mandela’s head of security, shared their memories of Madiba. This year the Union of Jewish last five years and has been an amazing of the Johannesburg Sephardi It was mediated by journalist Mandy Wiener. Women’s annual Domestic Workers’ Tea support to her family. Hebrew Congregation at The audience was spellbound by the often hilarious stories they was attended by 90 guests who were told and the insights offered into the character of the legendary icon. treated to a tea, beautiful gifts packs, the HOD Centre, Oaklands The festive evening and topnotch catering was appreciated by all interesting and informative talks and Avenue, Orchards. who attended. Security was of course ensured by volunteer protec- live entertainment. tors of the CSO. Talks on breast cancer were given The CSO is a non-profit, volunteer organisation, which performs by Ruth Kalmek and Rebecca Musi, a If anyone knows or suspects various roles in protecting the Jewish community at Jewish schools, breast cancer survivor and member of synagogues, and at communal functions. The main focus and mis- the Breast Health Foundation. anything about this sion of the CSO is the protection of Jewish life and empowering the Bev Cohen entertained the guests unfortunate incident would he Jewish community to protect itself. with an interesting cooking demonstra- Donor funding plays a pivotal role in its mission and enables the tion on how to make a quick, easy and Linah Moeketsi; Thabitha Moeketsi; or she immediately contact volunteers and staff to continue with their vital work. delicious pizza, after which everyone and Nomiah Malumane, enjoying the Rabbi Kazilsky at “We thank all donors most sincerely for their generosity and enjoyed tea, and music by a live band, Domestic Workers’ Appreciation Tea at [email protected] appreciate the ongoing contributions,” the organisation said in a Thabang and Brothers. the Union of Jewish Women, with their release. Three of the guests, Linah Moe- employer, Elaine Katz.

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11:00 CURRENT IMPROVEMENTS OF PROPERTIES Property 8 : Remaining Extent of Holding 143 Pomona Estates Agricultural Holdings, Property 1: Holding 60 Kempton Park Agricultural Holdings Extension 1, 60 Tulbagh Road, 143 Deodar Street, Kempton Park Kempton Park. Extent: ± 1, 0114 ha Extent: ± 2, 0304 ha Improvements: Unimproved stand Improvements: Offices Property 9: Holding 155 Pomona Estates Agricultural Holdings,155 Deodar Street, Kempton Park Property 2: Holding 61 Kempton Park Agricultural Holdings Extension 1, 61 Tulbagh Road, Extent: ± 2, 0229 ha Kempton Park. Improvements: Offices with shooting range and outbuildings Extent: ± 2, 4845 ha Property 10: Portion 4 of Holding 284 Pomona Estates Agricultural Holdings, West Street, Kempton Park Improvements: House with various flatlets Extent: ± 4, 0449 ha Property 3: Holding 56 Kempton Park Agricultural Holdings Extension 1, 56 Tulbagh Road, Improvements: House Kempton Park. Property 11, 12, 13 & 14: Erf 399, Erf 400, Erf 518 and Erf 519 Serengeti Estate Extent: ± 2, 0304 ha Extent: ± 1 468 m², 1 001 m², 1 921 m², 1 001 m² and 1 086 m² Improvements: 4 bedroom house Improvements: Unimproved stands Property 4: Holding 57 Kempton Park Agricultural Holdings Extension 1, 57 Tulbagh Road, Kempton Park. Auctioneer’s note: Extent: ± 2,0304 ha The area of Pomona is a fast growing and developing Improvements: 3 bedroom house area, ideal for residential, commercial Property 5: Holding 58 Kempton Park Agricultural Holdings Extension 1, 58 Tulbagh Road, and industrial development. Some of the properties will be Kempton Park. offered separately and jointly. Visit our website on Extent: ± 2, 0304 ha www.vansauctions.co.za or contact us for a full auction Improvements: Offices & workshop pack! Property 6: Portion 2 of Holding 271 Pomona Estates Agricultural Holdings Extent: ± 3, 9893 ha Download our App on Apple App Store or Android Play Store and scan our QR Improvements: Approval for Residential 2 code for more information and auctions. Township Development OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL WEB9548 Property 7: Portion 1 of Holding 149 Pomona Estates Agricultural Holdings Extent: ± 1, 0097 ha Improvements: Unimproved stand 10% Deposit and buyers commission + VAT: Bidders to register & supply proof of identity and residence. Regulations to Consumer Protection Act: www.vansauctions.co.za Rules of Auction to be viewed at 1006 Jan Shoba Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria. Tel 086 111 8267 | Auctioneer: Johan Van Eyk 12 SA JEWISH REPORT Youth 6 – 13 March 2015 ‘Hope for Heroism’ soldiers Four injured Israeli soldiers visit visit KD Victory Park KDL on a ‘healing’ tour HANNA BEN-MOSHE AVIGAEL BROWN, GRADE 12 The soldiers all told their personal stories. They also answered questions put by the learn- King David High School Victory Park was privileged to host two young men from the “Hope for Hero- Hope for Heroism is an organisation that aims ers and spoke about life in the army. Everyone ism” organisation at the school’s assembly last Friday. to help injured soldiers of the IDF. The organi- present was able to see the dedication that these Hope for Heroism, “Achim LaChaim” in Hebrew, is a non-profit organisation created and run by sation pairs two injured soldiers together as men gave to the State of Israel and to the Jewish wounded soldiers from Israel’s elite Duvdevan anti-terror unit. The organisation operates on the “brothers for life”. The soldiers help each other people. unique model of “injured soldiers helping newly-injured soldiers”. Hope for Heroism is currently during the road to recovery, until they are able Each soldier mentioned the importance of working with over 450 injured soldiers and their families. to return to society. friendship and unity and the importance of • For further information visit www.hopeforheroism.org The organisation helps soldiers to physiologi- these values during their army service. They also cally heal. As part of their healing, a group of spoke of the importance of hope, because with- soldiers recently visited South Africa. out hope, they felt that they would not survive. While in the country, four soldiers came to After the meeting the learners left the room speak to the grade 11 and matric learners of feeling emotional and appreciative. It is because King David Linksfield. Three of the soldiers were of the brave young individuals, such as these Israeli and one was from Venezuela. All four had men, that Jews have the State of Israel and it is served in the IDF and had acquired some form because of them that Jews all around the world of injury during their service. Two of them were know they have a safe place that they can always

Photo : Yael Gordon Yael Photo : injured during last year’s Gaza war. return to.

Pictured are Matanya; Oz; Mr B Nozaic; and Hanna Ben-Moshe. Photo: Avigael Photo: Brown YC Nursery School celebrates with a pyjama party OWN CORRESPONDENT

In honour of Rosh Chodesh Adar, the Yeshiva College Nursery School had a pyjama party and breakfast for its pupils. The children and teachers were very excited to come to school in their pyjamas! The morning was filled with dancing, singing and a lovely breakfast to ensure that “when Adar enters, we increase our joy”. Month of Adar -

Eden Cane; Amire spreading joy at Herzlia Swartz; Gia Suckerman; and RABBI RYAN BASSERABIE Liat Swartz all HEAD OF JEWISH LIFE AND LEARNING AT HERZLIA from Morah Dena

Smith’s class at Photo supplied Mi she’nichnas Adar marbim b’simcha - When the month of Adar enters we increase joy. Yeshiva College Our sages describe the Hebrew month of Adar as the happiest month in the Jewish calendar, Nursery School. so when the opportunity arose to bring smiles and good cheer, Herzlia got proactive about it. Crazy Hat Day was a sensational way to herald the new month of Adar. On Rosh Chodesh Adar The Little Steps Project the entire UHS system - pre-school to matric, teaching staff, admin and maintenance - all partici- pated by wearing crazy hats. Fundraising Bridge and Kaluki Morning This generated incredible excitement across all the schools. The grade 8s, who were away on their Life Sciences camp, also managed to get involved. Herzlia looks forward to making this an annual Rosh Chodesh Adar UHS event.

The Links, 147 Tenth Street, Linksfield Bank details Thursday, 26th March, 2015 Nedbank Current Acc no: 1056771046 13h15 for 13h45 Branch Code: 157852 Photo: Heather Simpson Photo: Cost: R160 per person includes Please use your surname as reference. delicious tea and lots of prizes. Payments must be made by 16 March. The Little Steps Project is a group of concerned people whose aim is For cash payments please call Jenny to improve the lives of underprivileged children. We have focused on on 082 555 1790. two non profit organizations in Marlboro that provide for the kids and to Please email names of partners/table improve their facilities. We are in the process of helping to upgrade the groups and proof of payment to day care facilities. We hope to increase the development of skills through workshops with experienced teachers so that the children can benefit [email protected] from this and be more equipped to enter into the school system. Help us make a real difference and get involved. “Every little step counts” 6 – 13 March 2015 Youth SA JEWISH REPORT 13 Mercedes C200 KDLPPS kids bake hamantashen for Purim Kompressor for sale SHEVA MESSIAS • Current model shape • In excellent “as new” condition During this month of Adar KDL Pre-Primary School in- creased its joy by having a mom’s and children’s • Only 40,000km, still under service plan “Hamantashen Bake” for the grade Rs in the King David • Only ever had 1 driver, never scratched or High School hall. Photo Candice Smith dented This was planned for early in the morning, so that moms • Brand new tyres recently fitted could go on to work. The school was pleased to have a few • OE extra – Xenon lights dads join too! • Popular silver colour Rebbetzen Chaya Avtzon from the King David Shul engaged both the children and adults in her discussion on Vehicle available for viewing or test driving in the hidden miracles of Purim. She left her audience with central Glenhazel, Johannesburg. interesting and thought provoking ideas. The children thoroughly enjoyed making hamantashen Contact Moshe at tel: (011) 334-7245 during with their parents. working hours or e-mail: [email protected] Pictured are Sky Sluzki and her mom, Lauren and Mandy Price and her daughter Jaimie. Musical fundraising hoot for the two King Davids

LIORA MICHAELS

On Thursday, February 26, King David Linksfield and King David Victory Park united to dance and Photo: Jessica Miller Photo: party to various bands. Goldilox Zone, Tees and Seas, Go Barefoot and Shortstraw performed for learners from all grades. The evening’s entertainment was very successfully put together by the Eco committees of both schools, as an organised fundraiser with food and drinks on sale. It was a night enjoyed by all. In the photograph Shortstraw performs for excited King David learners. TA Primary boys get into the Purim spirit

OWN CORRESPONDENT

These grade two boys from Torah Academy Primary School had a “dress up” rehearsal for Purim. Really into the parts of fireman, Ninja warrior and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story (Aharon Zwick, Aron Cohen and Ilan Glasser) found their own “jungle” in the school grounds where they played their chosen characters to the delight of their peers. The boys donned their costumes again this week on Purim (on Thursday) and Shushan Purim (Friday) when they enjoyed the traditional treats of hamantashen and exchanged mishloach manot at school. Photo: Suzanne Belling Photo: GLENHAZEL DUPLEX TOWNHOUSE FOR SALE Private sale in well-situated beautiful complex 3 bedrooms• 2 bathrooms • TV room • Large modern kosher kitchen • Maids room with bathroom • Double lock-up garage • Garden with covered patio • Built in braai • Complex pool

Asking price upper R2 million • Phone 082-880-8586 14 SA JEWISH REPORT Community Columns 6 – 13 March 2015

A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies A column of the Chevrah Kadisha ME peace not a straightforward morality play The highest level of kindness By ironic coincidence, this year’s annual hate fest known Last week I attended a meeting Last week I at- ful ways to give, this is as “Israel Apartheid Week” takes place at a time when with the vice-chancellor of the tended the Chev’s considered the highest Jews around the world are celebrating Purim, the festival Durban University of Technol- annual Zayin Adar level of kindness. that both demonstrates the implacable hatred of our en- ogy to discuss the way forward in dinner, always a Every human being emies and assures us of our ultimate triumph over them. the wake of the SRC’s shocking heart-warming is unique and we each The message of Purim - as epitomised by the heroic demand that Jewish students function. As usual want to help make the figures of Mordechai and Esther - is that we should not there be expelled. We were en- the guests were world a better, happier be intimidated by those who wish us harm. Rather, we couraged by the abhorrence felt made up of rab- place in our own way. should continue to proudly affirm our commitment to our by the DUT leadership regarding bonim, community The good news is that Jewish heritage and our right to celebrate it. this call and will be working with leaders, donors, there’s lots of room for On the frontlines of this battle are our university stu- them in formulating an envisaged staff and most of all personal expression in dents. I have received glowing reports of the activities of new social cohesion programme Above Board - because this event doing that. From money, SAUJS at UCT, and indeed, the firm, principled and digni- to foster the values of tolerance, Mary Kluk is really to honour to time and expertise, our fied response of the students there has been in evidence diversity and freedom of opinion National Chairman and thank them - incredible donors each on all campuses where SAUJS has a presence. on campus. those who prepare Partners in give the best of what they We can be proud of the commitment and resilience of On Sunday, National Director Wendy Kahn led a the departed for Chesed have to offer. And under our youth in the face of so much ugly invective, and take counter-demonstration against a BDS event at Lil- burial, our Tahara Michael Sieff those headings are count- heart at how the future leaders of our community are iesleaf, Rivonia. The intention, through the banners workers. Group CEO less detailed approaches willing to brave a hostile and deeply unpleasant environ- displayed and in interaction with the media present, Most of the and projects which ment to stand up for their beliefs. was to convey how BDS, despite claiming to be a hu- people who do this holy work impart an individual stamp to their The Board, in addition to supporting our university man rights organisation, was responsible for provok- are volunteers and the custom is generosity. In my sixth year of serv- students, has also been very active on the media front. ing, and also condoning, gross acts of anti-Semitism by for them to fast on this day (the ing as CEO of the Chev, I still can’t Here, we have been working closely with Bassim Eid, a its supporters. birthday of Moses) to atone for think of a single conduit for kindness visiting Palestinian human rights activist who believes, Recent such cases include the above DUT incident any possible disrespect they might we don’t offer. as we do, in the creation of a democratic Palestinian state and the depositing of a pig’s head in a Woolworths have inadvertently shown towards To prove that point, today is co-existing in peace alongside Israel. store in Cape Town last November. a deceased person. the festival of Purim and I want to While the other side will continue propagating their As Purim teaches us, anti-Semitism has been with us The sensitivity is great and the thank every reader who joined with rejectionist message, we can ensure that the media is also for thousands of years, even if the form it takes varies work itself is called Chesed Shel thousands of others in our city to provided with our perspective. Contrary to what BDS and from generation to generation. Our challenge is not to Emet, which roughly translates as support out Matanot l’Evyonim others would have people believe, the Israel-Palestine be discouraged by this, but rather to continue to affirm true kindness because the benefi- charity programme. By fulfilling this question is not a straightforward morality play about without equivocation what is important to us as Jews, ciaries can never repay, or even mitzvah, you give us the honour of victims and victimisers. be it our religious faith, our support for the State of express appreciation for this final distributing your funds for you to the Another important Board focus has been to bring home Israel, or our right to live both as proud, committed act of humanity. Purifying and poorest Jews among us - because we the extent to which the inflammatory and dishonest Jews and as equal, patriotic citizens in the countries clothing people who have passed know who, and where, they are. tactics of BDS et al, while doing nothing to resolve the we inhabit. away for their last journey on this May all our Purims be joyous and Middle East conflict, are fostering overt anti-Semitism earth is often not easy and it’s may our partnership continue to while undermining relations between South Africans in • Listen to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk, 101.9 certainly not for everyone. thrive! general. ChaiFM every Friday 12:00-13:00. While there are many wonder- Chag Purim Sameach! This column paid for by the SA Jewish Board of Deputies This column is paid for by the Chevrah Kadisha Confidence or victimhood – Will the the choice is ours 2015 Budget Photo: Jessica Coetzee Photo:

make l ght The panel of speakers: Kayli Vee Levitan, 26; Melissa Albeldas, 25; Scott Roberts, 21; Maya Schkolne, 26; Glenn Stein, 25 and Daniel Sive, 23.

LAUREN KESSLER social networks and even forms of religious affilia- work? tion – are currents in a pool of competing identities. Who are our community’s young Jewry? What are The event concluded with an address by Brit- their views? How do they identify as Jewish and as ish Jewish educator and innovator Clive Lawton, South African? How are they revolutionising their who said that despite the challenges discussed, Judaism to meet their unique needs and world ex- there were many reasons to be hopeful. “Jews are Given the impact of South Africa’s power crisis on our periences? probably the most privileged and educated group country’s economic growth, the question is... From those who feel at home on the periphery of people on the planet right now. We can choose how much tax will you have to fork out to keep the lights on? of the community, to those at the heart of it, the to see the world through a lens of confidence or of launch of GenerationNext was the first opportunity victimhood.” For answers to this question and insights into the budget’s for them to speak and be heard. Lawton added that he had heard much about impact on you and your business, read our online budget A Cape summer evening brought together a bus- the need for unity from the panel who expressed review and analysis. tling crowd of Jews of all ages. Such congregations, weariness with the divisions the community faced. however, don’t usually consist of over 80 per cent He agreed with the call for unity, but stressed that Just go to www.gt.co.za being under the age of 30! Indeed, as a first of its it was only good if it also meant guarding against kind, the event - the official launch of the Cape Jew- uniformity. ish Board of Deputies’ new portfolio, GenerationNext He further encouraged the diversity present in - saw passionate, interested and engaged young the community, that it is better for seven people to Jews who felt inspired to take up the cause of com- want to host a Purim party than only one person munity development and leadership. and six indifferent people as a result. He left the The event took the form of a panel of six young audience with the message that, “We are here to adults, each representing a different point of inter- make the world a better place. That’s what Jews est and identification with the Jewish community. are for. There are many reasons to be optimistic They spoke powerfully and personally of the places and hopeful - and after being here tonight, I don’t where they felt comfortable to identify as proudly have to try very hard.” Jewish, as well as the places with which they www.gt.co.za struggled to identify. • For more information about this new communal 2015 Grant Thornton South Africa. All rights reserved. Grant Thornton South Africa is a member firm of Grant Thornton The speakers made the point that several com- initiative, contact the GenerationNext co-ordina- International Ltd (GTIL). GTIL and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Services are delivered by the member firms. GTIl and its member firms are not agents of, and do not obligate, one another and are not liable for one peting identities – gender, sexuality, political views, tor, Lauren Kessler, on [email protected] another’s acts or omissions. Please see www.gt.co.za for further details.

Jewish Report_Budget.indd 1 2015/02/09 2:16 PM 6 – 13 March 2015 Classifieds What’s On SA JEWISH REPORT 15

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SIMPLY THE BEST The Israeli-born 14-year-old who grew Airport shuttle up in Skokie, Illinois, is one of about 60 scholarship covers any Technion courses international and Israeli students who was the students have to complete during high to OR Tambo / awarded a science and technology scholar- school and thereafter, as well as education- ship to attend high school and university al field trips. The academic staff of Nahalal Lanseria Airport. in Israel. School and World ORT provide students The programme continues until the with extra tutoring sessions. Call Gerald students successfully complete university “This is the second year of the Anières 082-907-5507/ level engineering studies. 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In 9th grade, we have 33 www.sajr.co.za Report Online carries Avidov. “I am more interested in aeronaut- students from the FSU and the West, who both speeches in ics though, probably because I’ve wanted have taken their first steps to becoming Israel Awareness Week: All of the video and text. to be a pilot in the Israeli Air Force since I engineers. stories highlighted have either been: was a kid.” “The 10th grade students have all • Exclusively published Online; or MASA IN SA: There’s The Anières Elite Academy programme integrated very well on the programme,” • Published in greater depth Online. a higher education expo by Israeli addresses the need for a long-term ap- Lotman says. institutions associated with the Sochnut’s proach to help teenagers achieve an The selection process for the Anières The majority of the big news stories this week Masa programme visiting Cape Town and advanced academic degree in engineering. programme is extremely stringent and on the website (and in the print edition) focus Johannesburg over the next few weeks. During the first stage of the programme, the academic and intellectual level of the on an agenda that has captivated SA and in students live and study at the WIZO Na- students is very high. some cases world Jewry over the past week. SAZF CONFERENCE & ISRAEL EXPO: This halal Youth Village in northern Israel, the “Naale Elite Academy has a comprehen- Israel and Zionism are the order of the day. weekend sees the opening of the Fed’s elective foreign students through Naale, a well- sive testing process to ensure that only conference with incredible speakers at the established programme that enables young students who will be able to cope with all THE SPY CABLE LEAKS: which have Sandton Convention Centre. On Sunday the Jews from the Diaspora to complete high aspects of being away from their parents compromised Israel unilaterally; the Conference proper takes place. The same venue school in Israel. are accepted. The tests determine academ- relationship between and the SA will host the must-attend Israel Expo. Part of their high school curriculum ic ability, maturity, independence levels spy agencies; and SA and Iran’s underground will include enrichment classes in physics, and psychological aptitude, to name a few,” activities. JR Online continues to publish a ISRAELI ELECTIONS: The Israeli Embassy in biotechnology, aeronautics and robotics at says Yeshayahu Yechieli, director and co- series of stories on the leaks as they relate to SA has come up with a unique initiative: It has the Technion. founder of Naale Elite Academy. SA and Israeli relations. built a website and is asking all South Africans The Naale scholarship covers all costs to cast a vote in a mock Israeli election. relating to the regular high school pro- • Debbie Mankowitz is the Naale repre- IAW: SA Jewish students are giving BDS a gramme (tuition, food, accommodation sentative in South Africa. Her cell phone run for their money again this year with BDS READER-POSTS: Our online users are in fine and other expenses) while the World ORT number is 082-604-5826. hosting Israel Apartheid Week with SAUJS’ form. Follow the chirps. parallel campaign, Israel Awareness Week. NEWSLETTER: You can get your Jewish NETANYAHU IN THE US: Much to the Report e-Paper sent to you with our free Read the South African Jewish chagrin of US President Obama, the Israeli weekly e-mail newsletter every Wednesday PM has delivered two emotive speeches in two evening. Join our over 7 000 subscribers and Report online www.sajr.co.za days, to 16 000 AIPAC members and to the US you will never be late getting your news. 16 SA JEWISH REPORT Sport 6 – 13 March 2015 Earl Grainger faces his Davis Cup acid test JACK MILNER reverse singles - No 1 versus No 1 and No 2 versus No 2. It is always an advantage to have a winning Grainger stepped into the job as South start when one moves into a new job and African captain in January after the resigna- that is exactly what South African Davis Cup tion of John-Laffnie de Jager and despite the coach Earl Grainger will be hoping for when low status of the Turkish team, especially as he takes his team into battle against Turkey he will be without South Africa’s No 1 player this weekend. Kevin Anderson, ranked 17 in the world. The tie is taking place in the city of Mersin Grainger is already the SA Federation Cup at the Mersin Tennis complex. It begins on captain and they started the year with a bang Friday with two singles rubbers in which the by gaining promotion to Europe/Africa Group No 1 player from one country takes on the 1 next year. No 2 player from the other country and vice With the Davis Cup team currently lan- versa. The next day sees the doubles rubber guishing in Group 2, Grainger will be looking taking place, while on Sunday they play the to achieve the same feat this weekend.

SA Davis Cup captain Earl Grainger (right) with his team as they prepare for their Europe/ Africa tie against Turkey in Mersin this weekend. From left are coach Stephan de Kock; Fritz Wolmarans; Tucker Vorster; ; and Raven Klaasen. In the front is team trainer Fayaadh Dhansay. Without Anderson, Grainger announced a his schedule but will be available should any “best possible” squad to take on the Turks, of the four players named injure themselves comprising Raven Klaasen, Tucker Vorster, ahead of the official draw,” said Grainger. Fritz Wolmarans and Ruan Roelofse. The squad arrived in Turkey on Monday For the first time since 2007 Fritz Wolma- and immediately got into action preparing rans will be representing South Africa and at for the tie. Speaking from Turkey, Grainger

C 427, is the highest ranked singles player in said he was very happy with the conditions. the named side. Raven Klaasen, who at No “We are very happy with our hotel and the M 29 is the country’s highest ranked doubles stadium where we will be playing the tie. The Y player, will be playing in his 11th tie for South facilities are great. CM Africa. “My team are in real good spirit which will

MY “As the new captain my main objective set a positive tone for the week.” was to get the best team assembled,” said They will be playing indoors on a hard court CY Grainger. “I made contact with Kevin Ander- and that should be fine for the South Afri- CMY son and his agent and I had good positive dis- cans. The Turks may have set themselves up K cussions with both, but unfortunately Kevin for more success as they opted to play the tie said due to scheduling reasons, he could not on clay. At the time of writing, the team had play against Turkey. not yet had an outing on the official court. “I am hopeful that he will down the line “After practice we will be able to give a better play Davis Cup and I will continue to work assessment of the hard indoor surface,” said hard at making that possible. Kevin will no Grainger. doubt be a major asset to our Davis Cup team With the exception of the Turkish No 1 and his participation in the team will no player, Marsel Ilhan, who is ranked 77 in the doubt improve the team’s chances of success. singles, the two teams are fairly well balanced. “Regardless of Kevin not being available, The fact that South Africa has Klaasen in the I am pleased Fritz is back in the Davis Cup doubles team will be hugely beneficial. fold and that Raven once again has shown In 2014 Klaasen formed a new partnership his loyal support to his country by making with multiple winner Leander himself available. With Tucker and Ruan also Paes of India, and at the age of 32, Klaasen is named, we have the best possible side to take playing the best tennis of his career. He has on Turkey. It’s a very experienced team. It’s enjoyed a solid run recently in Auckland, New crucial for us to win this tie to give us any Zealand at the Heineken Open where he and chance of promotion back to Group 1.” Paes won the title. At the start of the year, Dean O’Brien has been named as a non- Klaasen and Paes reached the final in Chennai travelling reserve. “Dean can continue with as well.

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