Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 CONTENTS VOLUME 33 No 5 JUNE 2016 VOLUME 36 No 7 AUGUST 2019

VOLUME 36 No 7 August 2019 www.cjc.org.za Mathilda actresses honoured with Jacques Weber awarded prestigious Naledi Theatre Award Paul Harris Fellowship Kitty Harris and Lilla Involved community Fleischmann have a few member and former things in common. councillor for the City of Cape Town, Jacques hey both attend or Weber can now add ‘Paul Tattended Herzlia Weizmann, they both have a Harris Fellow’ to his list penchant for musical theatre of achievements. and they both happen to have acques was recognised casually won, at the young Jby the Rotary Foundation ages of 10 and 15 respectively, of Rotary International a Naledi Theatre Award along on 19 June this year “in with Morgan Santo for their appreciation of tangible and shared role of Mathilda in the significant assistance given musical of the same name. for the furtherance of better volunteering on a number of different understanding and friendly relations The annual ceremony, which boards, so I think that’s also just among people of the world.” aims to promote excellence in become part of who I am, and the performing arts in South To Jacques, making a difference to volunteering is very much a part of Africa, took place on 20 May the community goes hand-in-hand Judaism. in Johannesburg. with his Jewish identity: During my time working with the Continues on page 20 “I have gone through the Herzlia Jewish community, predominantly system where, from a very young in CSO as director, I got to help our age, they teach you to always have community too, and Rotary creates Komati Foods wins Nedbank that open heart and to give charity, be a space for me to help the broader it through gemilut chasadim projects Sea Point community. Community Business Ignite Competition or getting involved in community. initiatives and community-based charities are very important to me.” Then from the age of 17 I started Local and kosher- certified business, Continues on page 6 Komati Foods bagged first place in this year’s Nedbank Business Guided tours for adults at the CTHGC Ignite Competition. The coveted prize includes an intensive incubation programme from Kaello Business Hub to the value of R100 000 tailor-made to the business’s needs as well as media booking to the value of R200 000 on 702 or Cape Talk. When asked what made co- owner Leanne Sabbath enter the competition, she says, “I started supplying more and more always listen to Kieno [Kammies] on Spars, and with growth comes so the radio when I’m getting ready for many challenges that you didn’t have work and we’re really in a phase right when you were very small. I heard now where we’re growing. We’ve Kieno’s ad on his show and I thought always supplied health shops and a that business coaching would be so few pharmacies, and we’ve got our Just one of the many groups that the Holocaust Centre hosted in the June/July helpful for me.” own store in Observatory. We’ve holidays Continues on page 20 See page 31 for more

www.facebook.com/capejewishchronicle www.twitter.com/CapeChronicle https://www.instagram.com/capejewishchronicle www.cjc.org.za 2 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 CONTENTS VOLUME 33 No 5 JUNE 2016 VOLUME 36 No 7 AUGUST 2019

Contributors Featured articles Page 3 Lindy with a why Page 6 Paul Harris fellowship for Jacques Weber Page 4 Community noticeboard Page 15 Spreading the love for Jaime Rose Subscription notice Page 16 Tribute to Nilly Baruch z”l Shabbat times Mensch change-maker: Dr Leah Mundell Page 5 Yom Tov greetings services Page 19 Tribute to Anita Shenker z”l Page 6 Giftime Page 20 Naledi Theatre Award for Cape Town Jewish Care Cape actresses Page 8-9 Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies Komati Foods wins business competition Page 10 Eliot Osrin Leadership Institute Page 35 SA Friends of Israel Museum Page 12-14 SA Zionist Federation Cape Council Page 37 Perpetuating the memory of the Jews of Page 14 Telfed Birzh Page 15 Mensch Page 41 The rise of the Far Right Page 17 Jewish Community Services Page 43 Gary Sandler completes fourth Comrades Page 18 Union of Orthodox Synagogues Marathon Page 20 Family Announcements Ethan Williamson, motorcross champion Rosh Hashana greeting form Page 21-23 Cape Jewish Seniors Association See Rosh Hashana greeting form Page 24-25 Temple Israel on page 20 Page 26-27 United Herzlia Schools Page 28 The Herzlia Foundation Page 29 Bnoth Zion WIZO Page 30 Jacob Gitlin Library Page 31 Cape Town Holocaust and Genocide Centre Page 32-33 Limmud 39 27 Page 34 Anton Katz on war and the Constitution Page 35 Cape Town Torah High Page 36 SA Jewish Museum Page 38-39 Simcha Snaps Page 40 Chronic Ads Page 42 Craig Nudelman celebrating diversity in our community 37 PLEASE NOTE The Cape Jewish CSO emergency number for CJC EDITORIAL BOARD Chronicle’s banking details: security and medical emergencies Chairman: Lester Hoffman. Ex-officio: Ben-Zion Surdut. Committee: Julie Berman, Geoff Cohen, Stuart Standard Bank — Branch: Thibault Square; Branch Diamond, Kristy Evans, Barbara Flax, Rael Kaimowitz, code: 020 909; Account no: 070 703 493; Acc name: 24 hours Myra Osrin, Jonathan Silke. Editor: Lindy Diamond, The Cape Jewish Chronicle Trust; Acc type: Current 086 18 911 18 Secretary: Tessa Epstein, Layout: Desrae Saacks

DISCLAIMERS ERRORS, OMISSIONS AND CORRECTIONS The Cape Jewish Chronicle regrets any errors or omissions that may occur in the paper and, where possible, will attempt to rectify these in a subsequent issue, should such a measure be deemed appropriate. No repeat advertisement or credits will be given for small typographical errors which do not appreciably lessen the value of the advertisement. The appearance of an advertisement or photograph does not necessarily indicate approval or endorsement by the Editorial Board for the product or service advertised or photograph reproduced, and it takes no responsibility for any loss or damage suffered by any person as a result of the reliance upon the information contained therein. LETTERS AND OPINIONS Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board or its sponsoring bodies. Letters submitted anonymously will not be printed. However, by agreement, the writer’s name may be withheld in the publication. Letters are published subject to space being available. The Editor and the Editorial Board have the right to decide on the inclusion of any item submitted for publication. Letters may be edited for clarity, space and/or language. KASHRUT Unless otherwise stated, food and catering services advertised in this publication are not under the supervision of the Cape Beth Din. FINANCIAL You should always obtain independent expert advice prior to making any financial investment, commercial or other decisions. Do not enter into any transactions of the above nature, based partly or wholly on the content of any advertisements or articles published in the Cape Jewish Chronicle. Cape Jewish Chronicle Samson Centre 87 Hatfield Str Gardens 8001 PO Box 4176 Cape Town 8000 phone 021 464 6736 email [email protected] Editor Lindy Diamond Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 3 Lindy with a why Why you should thank your teachers while you can

By Lindy Diamond, Editor Cape Jewish Chronicle

It’s been a strange and sad He was very proud. time of goodbyes. And then Anita; a connection who y grandfather passed away in went from working a few metres MJune and my colleague Anita away from me every day to medical Shenker passed away in July. There updates on my phone to gone, in a was a time (not so long ago) when I cruelly short space of time. could remark on how blessed I was I remember the last time I saw her. We that no-one close to me had passed stood apart — we were concerned away yet. That time is over now. about spreading germs so close to At first night prayers for my her procedure. But a hug felt like grandfather I was asked to say a few the natural thing to do, so we rocked words about him. I was glad I had no slightly back and forth in the absence time to prepare, as I didn't overthink of physical contact and said, “See it, and what bubbled to the surface you soon.” firmly and kindly. But then of my mind in the 120 seconds I had we didn't. before speaking has been a great She had been my teacher too. From source of comfort to me. small things like how to make the best My grandfather was a man of few egg mayonnaise (you have to grate words. I couldn't tell everyone about the egg) and easy baked salmon (the talks we had had that had changed secret is basting overnight in sweet my life, or his sayings that had chilli sauce) to more important things, become pearls of wisdom. Instead, I like being the biggest catalyst for me recalled the lessons my grandfather honing my managerial skills. had taught me through his actions. She was also a fount of knowledge, My very first memories of hachnasat both institutional and communal and orchim (honouring guests) are of my I am grateful for the time I knew her. grandfather welcoming friends and My Pesach preparation will now family into his home. I remember be missing her phone call on erev when my husband and I were first chag, to check how I am getting on, married, I asked him to watch my (is my fish marinating? is my table grandfather, the perfect host in my finally set?) and it seems fitting that eyes, so that our home could be the fish shop we would always order imbued with the same feeling of from together has closed its doors in warmth and welcome. Sea Point, it wouldn’t have been the I have childhood memories of being same to order from there anymore. ill from school and my grandfather The High Holidays approach with a coming to visit me, always with a little bittersweet taste. gift, to cheer me up. Silly comments, I wish I had told them both all the my special nickname and his light- things I have written here. up-the-room smile; bikur cholim (visiting the sick) in action before I I have not deleted either of their even understood the term. Whatsapp threads from my phone yet, and it seems almost surreal that The final lesson and honour I got they are right there to talk to, and yet from my grandfather was being able gone forever. to assist with his funeral. He wasn’t here to teach me in person, but I could Thank your teachers, while you can. hear his voice, and especially his dry A conversation is so much more sense of humour when it came to the meaningful than a eulogy. paperwork, all through the process. 4 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Pay your voluntary subscription Community Noticeboard

R295 JACOB GITLIN LIBRARY Book Launch: Through the Window: How I Beat PND We need your support to provide you with your monthly dose Monday 19 August 5.30pm See page 30 of all that’s been going on in Jewish Cape Town BNOTH ZION WIZO Save the date!

Rebecca Sieff Awards Sunday 15 September 10am RSVP

Yom Tov Market Sunday 22 September Book your stall now!

See page 29 for details

Banking details: Standard Bank — Branch: Thibault Square; SOUTH AFRICAN JEWISH MUSEUM Branch code: 020 909; Account no: 070 703 493; Account name: Exhibition: One Century of Seven The Cape Jewish Chronicle Trust; Account type: Current A unique look at the life and destiny of Jews of Lithuania

Please email confirmation of payment to [email protected] and kindly Exhibition: Imi Lichtenfeld, Krav Maga and its Creator quote your communal number, which you can find on your address label. June – August Please also inform us of any change of address. See page 36 Cheques to: Cape Jewish Chronicle, P O Box 4176, Cape Town 8000, Credit card: We no longer accept credit card payments over the JEWISH CARE CAPE phone. Please visit our office between 9 and 1 on weekdays. AGM Wednesday 28 August 5.00 for 5.30pm Gardens Community Centre It’s easy to pay with your phone See page 6 Zapper SnapScan CT HOLCAUST AND GENOCIDE CENTRE See page 31 for the full programme of events.

rjHD_Q3Z LIMMUD 23 – 25 AUGUST UCT Graduate School of Business, Waterfront. For programme of speakers see page 32/33

MOVED HOUSE? REMEMBER TO UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS email: [email protected]

Shabbat and Yom Tov Times

Date Portion Candle lighting Ends 2 Aug/1 Av Matot/Massei 5.49pm 6.43pm 9 Aug/8 Av Devarim/Chazon 5.54pm 6.47pm 16 Aug/15 Av Va’etchanan/Nachamu 5.59pm 6.52pm 23 Aug/22 Av Eikev 6.04pm 6.56pm 30 Aug/29 Av Re’eh 6.08pm 7.01pm

N.B. Please note that the times indicated are the earliest times for candle lighting. Please consult your Rabbi Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 5

YOM TOV GREETING Transform your Rosh Hashana SERVICES Greeting into a Mitzvah The UJW Cape Branch will send your Rosh Hashana Greetings for a donation towards our worthwhile projects.

Call Shuli on 021 434 9555 or email [email protected] with your list of people Make this Rosh Hashana special and your personal message. for your family and friends! Rosh Hashana Shanah Tovah Umetukah from all at the Greetings At the same time, your support will Union of Jewish Women! help us to add value to the lives of CJSA will be happy to send those with special needs. Rosh Hashana Greetings on your behalf for a donation For a donation (in lieu of gifts) we will to Seniors in lieu of a gift. send Yom Tov greetings on your behalf. Kindly e-mail your list timeously to: Please send a list of names [email protected] and addresses timeously Need help to find a meaningful so that your wishes can In lieu of gifts this Rosh Hashana 20 Breda Street, Gardens, 8001 gift for Yom Tov? be received before Yomtov. please consider donating to Tel: (021) 465 4200 ORT SA CAPE. Donate to ORT JET Cape Town. ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE The list can be emailed to Your gift will enable ORT JET [email protected] in accordance with our PBO status Your recipients will receive an email informing them to facilitate business growth of your donation. and financial sustainability for Jewish entrepreneurs. It’s easy…. ROSH HASHANA GREETINGS simply email Please email [email protected] [email protected] In lieu of a gift for Yom Tov, why not send your or call 021 448 8516 a list of your family & friends and family and friends a warm greeting letter from we will send Yom Tov wishes Nechama? www.ortsacape.org.za advising them of your generous donation in their honour. Please send the list of names, e-mail address or postal addresses to [email protected]

Oranjia Jewish Child and Youth Centre GREETINGS Rosh Hashana SERVICE Greetings Jewish Community Services offers a greetings service for A donation to our home in lieu of a gift is a great gift ALL occasions. as well as a wonderful way At the cost of a monetary donation of performing the mitzvah we will convey an appropriate of tzedakah. message to all those you wish to greet. In lieu of gifts for We will send a lovely card Rosh Hashana, we will send cards informing the recipients to your family and friends. of your donation. All proceeds will benefit the less The UJC supports over 35 of our community All you need to do is send us fortunate in our community. organisations. the list of names email: [email protected] Help us, help them make a difference. and addresses and we will Contact: Daniella Hayman by 13 September at do the rest for you. www.jcs.org.za 021 464 6700 Or [email protected] to have your Yom Tov Email: [email protected] 003-172NPO letters sent. 6 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Do you care?

The Jewish Care Cape Annual General Meeting of the seven welfare organisations on Wednesday 28 August will show just how much this community does care! Giftime he JCC Annual General Meeting is billed as T‘Your Window to a Caring Community’. This wishes all our year, their 11th AGM provides a very visual way to engage with Astra Centre, Cape Jewish Seniors customers Association, Glendale Home, Highlands House, Jewish Community Services, Nechama and Shana Tova Oranjia. and well Included with this edition of the Chronicle is the Annual Jewish Care Cape Handbook, over the Fast providing useful and pertinent information about each organisation. We encourage you use this publication to keep updated with what these organisations are doing. One window to a caring community will be opened by keynote speaker, Lauren Gillis, who will screen Limits, the inspirational 18-minute documentary Our stunning range of gifts are now on view film, showing how she and intellectually- at 20 Breda Street, Gardens challenged Donna Chait participated in the and on our website www.giftime.org.za New York Marathon together. Lauren will share behind-the-scenes reflections from their attempt and also on our Facebook page to achieve their goal. Other windows will be opened courtesy of grade Please order now to avoid disappointment 11s from Herzlia, who will be presenting the 2-minute videos they produced, showcasing the organisations. As in the past two years, this We deliver. year’s insights reveal fresh perspectives on our community and have been captured with Contact Frankye, Sandy or Ilana impressive creativity. 021 465 6500 or 021 462 1967 Show that you care and attend the Jewish Care or email [email protected] Cape AGM, which provides a unique opportunity to engage with all seven welfare organisations and to be informed about the challenges and realities facing us today.

Continues from page 1 0869990120 [email protected] Jacques Weber awarded Paul Harris Fellowship

By Jaime Uranovsky HAVE A PROJECT his is not the first time Jacques fires in informal settlements. has been honoured by the Rotary T Jacques says, “At Rotary they Foundation for his work in public practise being good to your fellow IN MIND? organisations. man and I think that’s exactly what He relays, “I’ve received other I believe. One of the reasons why I LET’S TALK. certificates over the last four or five still keep my Facebook active even years for different roles. During my though I’m not on Council is that time as a councillor, Rotary was often, I put up information that can always one thing that I fully supported help another individual. If everyone Premium Building of new homes in terms of dealing with any issues. did something good for someone Commercial restorations There’s a number of projects they run every day the world would be a better Construction and I’ve always tried to assist them place.” These values align with those Painting where I can, so I’ve always just been of the Rotary Foundation. and Restoration involved in it.” Waterproofing Jacques continues, “Listening to the Spalling and structural repair Over the years, the now ‘Paul Harris amount of good work that Rotary Fellow’ has worked on a plethora does was mind-blowing. There were Rope access and specialised of ventures aimed at aiding the so many different projects, and I access community, such as the license plate just want to reiterate that if everyone recognition camera system, which wakes up and does one good thing Roof cleaning and spray painting has been installed across the Atlantic in the morning, just imagine what Floor coatings Seaboard, as well as relief for victims powerful change can be made where following some of the devastating we live.” Industrial coatings Follow the Chronicle online

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CENTURY CITY . CAPE TOWN

All photos are an actual representation of Oasis Care Centre and all persons are actual residents or staff. The smiles say it all!

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Nahum Goldmann Fellowship in Israel KEEPING IT REAL Confronting ‘Jewish Identity’ greater gender equity today is challenging, to say and Mizrachi participation the least. amongst both Fellows Stuart Diamond, Executive Director of the and faculty.” One of the Cape South African Jewish Board of Deputies ith all its multi-faceted differentiating aspects of Wdimensions, with increasing any NGF is that Fellows “If Jewish survival denominational contestation, and get the opportunity to is problematic, it in a 21st century reality that is spend real time, formally is because Jewish shattering our preconceived ideas and informally, with of identity with regards to gender, an esteemed and very identity itself is sexuality and race, it is often problematic.” Rabbi diverse, global faculty. wiser to steer clear of the topic This year, faculty included: Neebashnee Krstnasamy, Emma Daitz, Stuart Jonathan Sacks altogether. But it is precisely for Prof. Galeet Dardashti Diamond and Gavi Ziegler that reason that the theme chosen from JTS (Jewish n June I boarded an El that the NGF helped them feel that for the 31st International Nahum Theological Seminary) in New IAl flight for my second- despite the differences among the Goldmann Fellowship was: Who York, Prof. Shaul Magid, from ever trip to Israel where I was to join a Fellows, we are all ‘Very Much’, am I? Constructing Jewish Identity Indiana State University, Prof. group of 37 diverse international Jews at one people. the Nahum Goldmann Fellowship. in the 21st Century, which was held Channa Pinchasi, from the Shalom on the banks of the Kinneret from Hartman Institute in Israel and The NGF is a project of the The focus of the fellowship was to engage 17-23 June. Rabbi Dr. Sam Lebens, from Haifa Memorial Foundation for Jewish over the topic of Jewish Identity in the University. Culture (MFJC) in New York. This Twenty First Century. I recall sitting down For a week, 33 current and emerging Jewish leaders from year four Capetonians namely on the first morning full of confidence that Neebashnee Krstnasamy, Gavi I knew who I was and that my lens on the 18 Jewish communities around Next year NGF 32 will the world spent time delving into Ziegler, Emma Daitz and Stuart world would not be shifted by a week of take place in Paris Diamond proudly represented conversations around this topic. issues of Contemporary Jewish Identity including: rising global and we urge all Cape South Africa. Today South Africa The truth about life is there are moments antisemitism, the place of Israel in Town Jews aged 25-40 has a network of 89 fellows and that come so unexpectedly that when their individual Jewish identities, to allow themselves is the third largest network after they arrive we often miss them. NGF 31 developing an understanding of the opportunity for Israel and the United States. was not going to be that moment and so secular Jewish identity and the growth and learning by The MFJC was the brainchild of Dr. I surrendered into the uncomfortable, into ‘Ashkenormalisation’ of Jewish life; applying. Nahum Goldmann Z”l, who also the unknown and opened myself to new gender and more. The carefully created the Claims Conference, ideas and new acceptance, new learnings. constructed programme gave both the World Jewish Congress and I learnt that our identities are fluid and have faculty and fellows the spaces The aim of the NGF is to allow the World Zionist Organisation. the ability to be reshaped or at least slightly to contribute and reflect on their young Jewish leaders to immerse Initially the MFJC was set up to moulded. The challenge we face is this experiences and learnings. themselves in global Jewish issues replenish Jewish culture that was belief that we are part of some normative, David Jacobson, Associate through the lens of serious Jewish lost in the Shoah. But in the early homogenous grouping that we all need to Director of the MFJC (Memorial scholarship and with exposure 1980s, Dr. Goldmann presciently conform to. I believe the role as Jews in Foundation for Jewish Culture), to the multiplicity of Jewish saw that the increasing friction and the 21st Century is to explore our identity said “The make-up of this identification that exist in the world fraction within the Jewish world and to open ourselves up to listening and Fellowship was particularly today. Based on the recent 20-year was beginning to present a real respecting other Jewish identities. diverse, as we intentionally sought research, over 81% of all alumni danger to global Jewish unity. of the NGF felt that the Fellowship to bring together the widest The Nahum Goldmann Fellowship, Today more than ever our children need connected them powerfully with possible spectrum of geography, is designed for young Jews, ages to understand that just like a mosaic the global Jewry and over 70% stated beauty and strength of the Jewish world ideology and theology, including 25-40, from all around the world, comes from all those unique Jewish working as Jewish professionals identities. It is when we find each other and lay leaders, and representing with love and light, that we can say “Am You may apply if you: the broadest possible spectrum of Yisrael Chai”. Cape SAJBD political and religious ideologies. - Are a Jewish undergraduate or Bursary Programme Next year NGF 32 will take place postgraduate student in Paris and we urge all Cape - Are in need of financial assistance Town Jews aged 25-40 to allow to study in 2020 Apply now for financial assistance themselves the opportunity for - Live in the Western Cape growth and learning by applying. - Wish to attend a registered for your 2020 tertiary education! university, technical college or In the words of Prof. Steven similar educational institution in Windmueller, Professor Emeritus the Western Cape of Contemporary Political Issues & American Jewish Affairs, Hebrew Applications open on 1 July 2019 Union College, California “One and close on 30 September 2019. cannot recreate an NGF, with its distinctive mix of cultures and For further enquiries, contact characters, with its diversity of Jodi Goldberg ideas and identities, and with the T: 021 464-6724 extraordinary quality of both its E: [email protected] scholars and its students!”

Cape Jewish Board of Deputies capesajbd www.capesajbd.org Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 9

What does the board do?

Some of those questioned in the Communal Survey being conducted by the The Cape Board now Kaplan Centre have said that they do not know what the Board does. Antisemitism: Monitoring antisemitism in the media and Since its establishment 115 years ago, the Board’s communal roles society and taking appropriate action. expanded to confront new challenges. Here we try to answer the question Cultural: Enriching and maintaining Jewish life through chronologically by explaining the Board’s role in establishing projects that cultural and educational programmes, including the Yom now run independently. HaShoah commemoration, publications, exhibitions and academic seminars. The history of the Cape Board Information Resource: Providing information on Jewish Sheltered Employment: After the £250 — now it is incorporated into the SA life and history, locally and internationally. Second World War demobbed soldiers Jewish Museum. Interfaith: Working on interfaith by building connections had difficulties finding work so the Board Fundraising: The Board, along with the with other faith communities. set up an employment office as well as UCF persuaded 64 organisations to agree to Political: Networking with government at every level in order sheltered employment for disabled soldiers form a Priorities Board, and also developed or community members with learning to maintain open lines of communication between local and a Communal Register. It also put together provincial government and our community. disabilities or mental problems. This a committee to pool Bursary Funds and moved into a room in the Astra hostel run distribute them, and appointed a full time Outreach: Coordinating social welfare projects on behalf of by the Union of Jewish Women for young officer to their employment department. the wider society, particularly in times of national emergency. women from country communities. When Holocaust compensation: Keeping abreast of Holocaust- times changed the need for such a hostel Employment: In 1979 when a depression resulted in a spate of retrenchments, that based claims and litigation and making this information diminished and the UJW rented more rooms available to Holocaust survivors and heirs in the community. to the workshop. This became Glendale, department was resuscitated and today and the world-renowned Jewish Sheltered Staff Wise is professionally recognised for Bursaries: Administering bursaries for tertiary education Employment Agency, now called Astra. its outstanding results. to students living in the Western Cape in need of financial assistance Holocaust compensation: Through DR Social Services: Under Board leadership, Erwin Spiro, the Board successfully took on welfare organisations like the Jewish Board the struggle to obtain compensation for its of Guardians and Jewish Sick Relief that Holocaust survivors. had overlapping functions and clients united as Jewish Community Services. Winter Readiness Campaign Education: In 1949 Board Chairman MH Goldschmidt expressed the Board’s strong Security: Confronted by increasing concerns about security, the Jewish Self On behalf of our beneficiaries Souper Troopers, views on the necessity of having a Jewish Jewish Community Services (JCS) and Cape Town High School, and he turned the first sods for Protection Association JASPA came under the Herzlia School. the aegis of the Board. This developed in Central Improvement District (CCID), the Board would 1997 with a full time head into Community like to thank those who contributed to the Winter Cultural pursuits: The Board set up a Security Organisation to protect Jewish life Readiness Campaign. library sub-committee under the formidable and the Jewish way of life. Minna Levitas to establish a Jewish library our assistance means so much to so many people, and Civil society: The Board has not only and joined forces with the SAZF that was Yyour generosity will directly benefit the needy recipients of looking for a way to honour its long time assisted in filling gaps within our community, various NGO/PBO organisations, as well as providing support secretary, hence the Jacob Gitlin Library. In it has also assisted in developing outreach for Jewish community members who need it. 1958, the Board helped set up the Jewish organisations. Afrika Tikkun started out, Your support plays a key role in our organisations’ success in Museum with a grant of £250 and a loan of like Astra, in the Board’s offices. Another recent success is the Mensch Network. securing, promoting, protecting and empowering communities in the Western Cape. Conversation with the Chai Coffee Club

Chairman Harry Buchinsky, Stuart Diamond and members of the Chai Coffee Club On Monday 1 July the Director of the informal discussions mainly on Jewish Cape Board Stuart Diamond spoke affairs in relation to Israel, South Africa and to members of the Chai Coffee Club. the global village. he group consists of 18 retired Jewish “It is through these opportunities to engage Tgentlemen (excluding when they have that we start the process of coming together visitors) hence the name ‘Chai’. They and building a community built on respect Stuart Diamond and Jodi Goldberg, Cape SAJBD with Tony Shapiro meet weekly over refreshments and have and recognition of our different Jewish board member, Souper Troopers and Kerry Hoffman, Founder, identities”, said Stuart Diamond. Souper Troopers

Cape Jewish Board of Deputies capesajbd www.capesajbd.org 10 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 11 12 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 13 14 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019

THE ISRAEL CENTRE After applicants were screened via an online assessment and placed in the relevant level – students range from beginners to mid-intermediate at this stage – classes kicked off at Herzlia Middle School two evenings a week, where we have the use of בואו נדבר בעברית Bo’u Nedaber Ivrit! smartboard-equipped classrooms and three qualified teachers who (Let’s speak Hebrew!) were trained to teach the programme. By Cindy Moritz Students need to bring a device to log in to the Ulpan Or site and then, guided by a teacher, watch videos, Whether you’re spending more learn new words, practice those words time visiting Israel, have children and ultimately perform “Showtime” in or family there, or are considering which those same conversations on making Aliyah, you’re absolutely video are simulated in real life. Pop going to need to know how to speak quizzes keep students on their toes Hebrew. First prize is speaking like and ensure that vocabulary lists keep an Israeli, fast and furious, but we growing. Ulpan student, Nathan Esra, getting his Aliyah visa and getting ready to speak Hebrew in Israel all have to start somewhere. Cape Town Ulpan Or students are Hebrew quickly, while making the secures your access via login and And so it happened that the Israel in good company. The programme, ancient language come alive today password, and for all other details. Centre in Cape Town initiated sometimes dubbed the “Harvard of in a fun and welcoming environment The course is open to anyone ready the exciting interactive Ulpan Or Ulpanim”, is the official exclusive that takes into consideration cultural and willing to learn. programme earlier this year for adults provider of Hebrew programs to the immersion and the ease of self- who want to become fluent in the American Embassy in Israel, and learning via technology when outside Engagement with Israel needn’t often baffling Hebrew language. just recently was selected, qualified the classroom. only be via shouty politics. Cultural and certified by the Israeli Ministry immersion through acquiring Hebrew Ulpan Or promises “Hebrew at the of Absorption to provide Hebrew Registration is open for new and provides a rich and rewarding way to speed of light”, and indeed classes programs to new immigrants (olim). returning students for next term, create and maintain a strong bond, are high energy and intensive, starting July 16 to 19 September (ten whether you’re staying in the diaspora providing ample opportunity for quick Ulpan Or’s revolutionary methodology weeks). Call Sharon Greenblatt at the or planning Aliyah. B’hatzlacha! and easy learning of the language as for learning Hebrew, Rapid Language Israel Centre on (021) 286-2130 to it’s spoken among Israelis. Acquisition, allows students to learn arrange payment for the term, which Find us SA Zionist Federation - Cape Council @SAzionfed www.sazfcape.co.za SASI – my perspective, as a South African student in Israel

By Joshua Sher I am a second-year university misuse it. student at the Inter Disciplinary I aspire to use the skills and education Centre (IDC) in Herzliya, Israel. that I have gained in South Africa, attended United Herzlia Schools and Africa at large, where I believe Iand am completing the second there is tremendous potential given year of my BA in Sustainability and the continent’s natural resources. Government Studies. I study at the I hope to be able to play my part in IDC in English. Studying here has effecting real positive change. really been an amazing opportunity, This amazing opportunity would the friends I have made here come not have been possible without from near and far and from all spheres the financial and comprehensive of life, from Sudan to the United support of Telfed. In addition to the States and even South America. IDC scholarship, Telfed’s scholarship Our lecturers are experts in their helps offset the costs of living in respective fields and it’s a privilege to Israel. Telfed and in particular the gain innovative knowledge on topics SASI (South Africans Studying in such as ‘Advanced Water Resource Israel) group have become a home Management and Energy Systems, away from home. Our group of Climate Change and our society’. students attend different universities The degree I study is focused on and study different degrees but sustainability — a future-orientated we come together every couple of degree — which looks at how we use months. SASI students celebrate the end of the academic year in Tel Aviv in June 2019 our natural surroundings (oceans, This year with SASI we volunteered at fend for myself and the lessons I have a lot easier — I encourage all those forests, oxygen, sunlight etc.) in a a home for lone soldiers, participated learned are priceless. Telfed and the thinking of coming to Israel to contact sustainable manner for our benefit, in a Shabbaton in the spiritual city SASI team have been there for me them. I conclude with a quote which and that of future generations. I of Tzfat and have been on tours of whenever I have needed assistance resonates deeply with me: “The chose to study in Israel, following Tel Aviv’s underground art scene. or just someone close to home to talk greatness of a man is not in how seven months of a BA in History and I encourage all those considering to, and the friends I have made within much wealth he acquires, but in his Politics at UCT. I soon realised that studying in Israel to go for it! These the group have become like family. integrity and his ability to affect those my passion was in learning about our two years have changed me as a around him positively.” — Robert Telfed makes the transition to Israel natural world and how we use and person. I have had to grow up and Nesta Marley. Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 15 Jaime's legacy continues to inspire, with book club for children

By Jaime Uranovsky After Jaime Rose Whitesman The community's response has been Martine then donates the shelves tragically passed away from amazing.” of books to organisations and institutions in need: “I’ve given medulloblastoma in January For Martine, this project is very much to the Jewish edu-care centre in last year, her mother, Martine about paying it forward. She explains, Maitland and to Nazareth House. Volks, knew that her daughter’s “When we were raising money for I’m going to give to an old age home treatment for [Jaime] and for the Red legacy would live on. near Greyton. I’ve given to the Red Cross, [our campaign] was called ne of the ways in which Martine Cross [and] to the Oncology Lounge For the Love of Jaime. This is about is ensuring that Jaime’s flame in Rondebosch Clinic where we O giving back. That’s why it’s called burns bright is through Spreading [received treatment] and I’m going to Spreading the Love for Jaime Rose. the Love for Jaime Rose: Jaime’s ask at Vincent Pallotti next. Now it’s going outwards. Book Club, which Martine started Now we’re spreading the “I’m doing it slightly slower in September last year. But what is received everything from ‘scratch ‘n love and giving back. because I’m doing it by Jaime’s Book Club and how did it sniff’ books to recipe books, so the So, every book that I’ve myself, step-by-step, but come about? variety is large.” received is sitting in my people can continue to drop Martine shares, “[Jaime Rose] was lounge and I’m single- off and if it gets to a point The beautiful thing about words in an avid reader. She absolutely loved handedly doing it. I’ve where it’s too much for me books is that, once written and read, her books and kept them in the most put her pink logo sticker, to manage, then I will ask they exist eternally for each reader. which says Spreading the kids to come and help me. impeccable condition. Her shelves What could be a more perfect way to Love for Jaime Rose onto And then, maybe what we’ll were filled with books and I kind of keep the memory of Jaime Rose alive every single book. I’ve do is go read to people. So, walked in there and thought ‘Wow, than by sharing immortal words with then divided the books [by it’s hopefully the start of what am I going do with all of these?’ each person who is lucky enough age]. I’ve taken some bookshelves, something bigger.” That was the initial thought process. to be part of her ever-growing book painted them pink and added her And then obviously [we were] Martine says, “Some places seem club? little poster that says For the love spending a lot of time in the hospitals to have had a shelf or two already of Jaime on canvas, and then filled For more information visit For the and hospital lounges and there was a but I was like, ‘No, it must be pretty; them with books for the appropriate Love of Jaime on Facebook. lack of books.” it must be pink. It must be Jaime.’ I age. So, if the kids go and sit, at least can already even hear her going, Contact Martine Volks directly on Martine began by donating Jaime’s they’ll be inspired, and they can say, ‘Uh. No. you can’t put the books like 072 627 9656 regarding drop-off own books and then reached out to ‘Oh, who’s Jaime?’ or ‘What’s that that!’ She was very particular about arrangements at either her shop, the community when it came time to about?’ And I named it Jaime’s Book her books on her shelf being in the Martine’s on the Bay Boutique, in source more: “From people dropping Club because clubs bring people right order. But the bigger picture is Sea Point, or at her home which is off, I’ve collected at least 4000 books. together.” People have been quite incredible. that kids have something to read. I’ve also located in the area.

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[email protected] • www.mensch.org.za 16 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 A tribute to community stalwart Nilly Baruch 1944-2019

“Nilly Baruch always “Nilly brought people illy Baruch demonstrated compassion, together from disparate z'l was born generosity and determination, N communities and in Romania in leading from the front as an different backgrounds 1944 but grew invested team player. This is and often unified them to support up in Israel Nilly’s legacy and the community is in gratitude to projects in need. She has left and had made her.” a legacy for all in the social South Africa her and non-profit sector — with a home for the positive attitude, integrity and “It was impossible not to admire or past 33 years. even emulate Nilly in the example perseverance, anything can be achieved.” she set for those around her, and She was Women of Action those who were recipients of her married to largesse. She was the archetypal Zvi, with “Nilly was a pioneer in the field hospitable hostess; a fervent believer three children of building support for Israel in in the importance of giving back to the community (Arik, Michal the Christian community and she from which she derived so much pleasure and and Nir — who passed away in undertook this vital task with sincerity stimulation; devoted to the principles she held a car accident in 2001) and six and dedication. One of the results so dear; and dynamic in thought and action. She grandchildren. of her efforts in Cape Town was the establishment of the South African influenced those around her and by so doing, made Nilly was a well-known and the world a better place.” Friends of Israel. She was a woman of exceptional respected figure in the Cape Town warmth, generosity and kindness and endeared Jewish Community. herself to so many in our community and beyond.” “Nilly Baruch gave of herself unconditionally to the welfare She passed away suddenly on 13 June and will be missed by all who of the Jewish Community. “Nilly Baruch was a proud supporter of knew her. Assisting and supporting CSO and played an integral role in the those in need, and always The organisations that Nilly was establishment of the CSO Control Room.” offering her services. She had involved in wanted to pay tribute total focus on any project that she worked with, she and acknowledge the work she lived a life of courage, beauty and integrity.” did for the betterment of the Cape “Nilly’s care for all in Town Jewish Community and need, her devotion to “Nilly was a true Eyshet Chayil; She was beyond. WIZO South Africa’s an incredible host and was generous specific projects in Israel, to a fault, always immaculately On this page we have taken quotes and passionate support for WIZO projects dealing dressed with her signature red from their tributes, the full versions with the status of women as well as combatting lipstick.” of which can be read on our website: gender abuse and violence proved a driving force. www.cjc.org.za

mensch change-maker of the month Dr Leah Mundell Your opportunity to mentor an entrepreneur Five years ago, our family and discrimination. The goal was had grown, their moved to Cape Town for a year. to create a structure through which communication women could build connections skills had y husband, an astronomer, with one another, strengthen their improved, and Mhad a sabbatical year and leadership potential, develop job they had learned collaborators at the South African skills, and move toward financial to resolve conflict National Observatory. I am an applied self-sufficiency. The emphasis in their homes and anthropologist and had been working on integration, leadership, and communities. as a community organiser in Arizona, advocacy fit well with my experience The challenges of USA, where my primary focus had in grassroots organising, and I financial stability, been immigration advocacy. I hoped signed on to help build the Women’s however, are still Dr Leah Mundell, with alumni of the Scalabrini Centre that I could use this opportunity Platform and research its impacts. Women’s Platform and leaders of the partner organisation to learn about migration issues in formidable. Many Kwesu, which offers sewing skills training at their centre in another part of the world. Little did The Women’s Platform is now a migrant women Parow comprehensive programme of are not eligible I know that the year would also open develop business plans, and build personal development, English for refugee status or have not been up the chance to build longstanding professional networks. These are language support, skills training, able to make the journey to Pretoria relationships with migrants to South wonderful opportunities for members small business development, and or Musina to apply. Those who do Africa and those working to further of the Jewish community to get mentorship. Many of the facilitators have asylum-seeker or refugee migrant integration. An even happier involved. My own involvement in are alumni of the Women’s status are still often passed over for surprise was that this work would migrant advocacy has always been Platform themselves, migrants employment, because of their lack often intersect with the welcoming connected with my own family’s who understand first-hand the of a South African ID. So, for many Jewish community that we found in migration story, and my sense of daily challenges of integration into migrant women, their only option is to Cape Town, as I discovered the work Jewish history and values. The South African society. My recent create their own jobs by developing of Mensch and the energy for social experiences of fleeing danger and research with participants in the a small business. The Women’s change that it cultivates. seeking opportunity are so familiar Women’s Platform has shown Platform offers skills training in to us as Jews, and the mitzvah of My research took me to the Scalabrini how impactful the opportunity for hospitality, childcare, craft, and welcoming the stranger is so central Centre of Cape Town, where the personal growth has been. In focus beauty, and many participants go to our worldview. I encourage you staff were considering launching a groups and interviews, participants’ on to develop their skills further in to consider ways that you, your new initiative, a Women’s Platform eyes lit up and faces shone as they these areas. But they need mentors business, or your community might that could serve as a network for described the ways their confidence to help them gain experience, migrant women often facing isolation offer support. If you are interested in providing mentoring or other support for the Women’s Platform, please contact Mensch who will connect you with opportunities. If you would like to learn more about the Scalabrini Centre and the Women’s Platform, please go to their website at www.scalabrini.org.za. Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 17 18 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 19 A tribute to our colleague Anita Shenker Anita Shenker z”l worked for the Cape Jewish Chronicle for 27 years as our commercial advertising salesperson. She was a colleague, friend, office-mom and source of knowledge, both institutional and communal. She will be missed. o much has been said about and to cheer. All things bright. she would want to be her legacy. Anita in the past week but the Rather, I think she would want you to S Anita’s passing is so very hard to overwhelming sentiment speaks to hold onto everything that is dear to come to terms with and an enormous her generosity, her broad knowledge you — be it family, friends, community loss to us all. We will remember her base and her tenacious spirit. Even or Judaism — celebrate every day, always with a smile. when Anita and I would vehemently and dance — even if life has literally disagree on something, five minutes Irma Chait brought you to your knees. later we would be sharing a recipe or Anita, the Cape Jewish Chronicle planning a Shabbat menu and forging will never be the same without you. a path of compromise through the hen I arrived as the new editor I hope you are at peace and with the mire. She wasn’t easy, but she was of the Cape Jewish Chronicle, W many loved ones you lost, especially definitely worth it. a generation younger than my new your beloved son. I will miss you and colleagues who had worked together We are richer for having known her will never forget you. for decades, we could have struggled and poorer for having lost her so to get along. But they all welcomed Tali Feinberg soon. me with ‘Jewish mommy’ warmth, Lindy Diamond encouragement and support, and we never looked back. Anita wasn’t nita Shenker was my friend and nita was a very special person shy to show me the ropes, and as the colleague at the Chronicle for A — a colleague, companion and nita Shenker was a truly special long-term advertising consultant of nineteen years. A mere hour after A confidante. Awoman. the paper, she knew the community our initial meeting, we had our first and the Chronicle inside out. argument; and the path was set We worked together for 27 years and My association with her goes back for a working relationship that was grew very close to one another some 27 years, during which time As we worked together over the next stimulating, challenging and never she was my fellow worker and a four years, our friendship blossomed. We supported each other, not only dull. faithful, caring friend. One of my favourite memories was at work — when begging for that a gift from her and the rest of the While our personalities and values spot on the right hand page — but Anita was strong — a strength very Chronicle ladies of a Pesach recipe did not always align, I came to in every aspect of our lives and were much tested over the years. She book when I told her I was hosting appreciate and care deeply for her always there for each other. Anita suffered so many sad and tragic the Seder. Family, community, for as I experienced her strength, and Maurice even came to Joburg for losses and endured so many health tradition and her Jewish identity were generosity, loyalty, and sheer our children’s weddings. problems. All of this she handled with so important to her and she delighted enthusiasm for life. her inner strength. And always she Our day didn’t only start when we in sharing those values with me. was there, offering sympathy and A traditionalist to the core, Anita’s life parked our cars next to each other in support to others, whenever needed. Anita faced unthinkable challenges revolved around family, friends and the parking area, but most days we in her life, but with every knock she community. spoke on the phone before leaving Over the years we witnessed what emerged stronger — the ultimate home for work. a deeply caring mother Anita was to Over the years I witnessed the survivor. Not only that, but every her children, a wonderful, supportive absolute devotion with which she Anita was very passionate about her challenge made her embrace life daughter to her mother, Sadie, and conducted her close relationships work and was always thrilled when even more, with optimism, passion for Maurice, a beloved wife… a rock. – as mother, wife, daughter, sister, she got a new advertiser. and strength. For example, when she friend and colleague. While she At the Chronicle, Anita was a stood up and danced at my wedding, The Chronicles over the past 26 suffered more tragedies than most, vital member of our team. Driven, it was a feat unmatched by any other years are testimony to her hard work she faced these with a courage conscientious and organised. Really guest there. Two years earlier, Anita and dedication. that was inspiring to behold, as she great at her job. For us a terrific team had fallen and broken both her knees, supported those close to her, and I will always remember the happy member and, most times, great fun to which was followed my multiple never lost hope. and fun times we shared including work with. Really good years. medical procedures. Yet she always dinners, quiz nights, and our lovely said she would be dancing at my Anita was also the go-to person for Anita and I never had an argument. lunches with Irma, and of course the wedding, and so she did. That was any practical advice. She knew how Just one problem. While laying out ‘hakking’ on the phone. She was so Anita — getting up and being the life to GET THINGS DONE — whether the paper’s pages, particularly for vibrant and chatty and always kept of the party no matter what life threw it was a building renovation, an the major ‘Chag’ issues. She fought me up to date with the latest bits of at her. Over the last few years since insurance claim, where to buy the for the right-hand, up front pages for news. I left the Chronicle we were less in best chopped herring or where to get clients, while I needed them for the touch, but I always felt close to her. your car repaired. The list goes on… Anita had a heart of gold, always community. Actually it was fun. No helping those around her, especially blows. We always compromised. Her passing has rattled me because I miss her strong and outspoken the less fortunate. Tessa, our faithful secretary, was after all that she endured, she presence in our office, her reassuring never required to umpire! should have been given a miracle. confidence and her unwavering What I will miss most are Anita’s final It will never make sense, and shows optimism. Her passing has left a void words every single day. “what’s for She was also a ‘mine of information’, just how fragile, unpredictable and in our lives. supper tonight?” a rock… sometimes a boulder… ever unstable life can be. She knew this bold! She loved life, loved to dance Desrae Saacks Tessa Epstein too well but I don’t think that is what

www.facebook.com/capejewishchronicle www.twitter.com/CapeChronicle https://www.instagram.com/capejewishchronicle www.cjc.org.za 20 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Continues from page 1 Mathilda actresses honoured with Family Announcements prestigious Naledi Theatre Award CONDOLENCES — THANK YOU HAROLD SANDAK-LEWIN By Jaime Uranovsky

illa recounts, “The Naledi Awards Lilla and Kitty have been part of its Lwas an amazing evening and it international tour. Kitty explains, We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to all those who extended was such an honour that the three “Well, we’re in China for four months their condolences, kindness and generosity to us on the passing of Mathildas were asked to perform. and we’re going to a few different our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother At the beginning we performed, and cities and then we go to Hong Kong and uncle. then we came and sat inside the for a month. But we’ve already been Helga, Jonathan, Linda and Mark and Alison, and grandchildren award ceremony. There were other in Singapore and Joburg.” Simone, Leo, Hayley, Carlo, Kayla, Georgina, Isabella, Olivia and performances and I got to see lots of Lilla delves into her experience, “I Luke and great grandchildren Alexander, Luca and Ava. really talented people in the industry.” was part of the leg of the tour where Sisters Gloria and Hilda, nieces and nephews. Kitty notes, “First they were we went around South Africa and mentioning all the categories and where we went to Singapore. It was They do not die who live on in the hearts of those who love them. we didn’t win our category [for which a very, very exciting experience to they were nominated] — we won a travel overseas with the show. I got to special award: ‘Most Outstanding experience what it’s like performing To place a family announcement, email: [email protected] Performance by an Actress’.” Kitty, and working in a foreign country.” or phone Tessa 021 464 6736 (am) Lilla and Morgan jointly received the With such accolades under their prestigious award. belts, there is no doubt that we will While the curtain has closed on be hearing from these talented Mathilda’s South African run, both actresses again soon. Book your Rosh Hashana Greeting here!

Continues from page 20 Komati Foods wins Nedbank Business "Our warmest wishes to family and friends Ignite Competition for a happy and healthy New Year  and well over the Fast" By Jaime Uranovsky Book your place on the Rosh Hashana greetings pages in our New Year ess than a month after hearing Kieno Kammies and Tshepo Phakathi edition — Deadline for submissions: Wednesday 14 August. Labout Nedbank Business from the Kaello Business Hub, and a Ignite, Leanne had already won the representative from Nedbank. competition. “I entered around the Pay with SnapScan or Zapper and use your name and email as “After a deliberation period of about 10th of June and on the 13th I got reference and we will get hold of you for your wording. an hour, Africa Melane said that the an email to say I’d been selected as winner was going to be announced one of the finalists. Then, on the 18th Zapper SnapScan shortly, and that [the winner was] of June, they said to me that they’re going to speak on Cape Talk and going to phone me and I’m going to 702, and I turned to my friend and I talk on the radio with Kieno about the said, “I hope I don’t win!”’ business. I hate public speaking! It makes me so anxious and I asked if Despite Leanne’s discomfort with rjHD_Q3Z we could pre-record the thing and he public speaking, she succeeded in said no. Then, when they announced securing Komati Foods’ win and aced OR the winners, I had to speak again!” the subsequent radio interview. Pay via EFT and send proof of payment to [email protected] The winning business was Komati Foods is a family-owned P O Box 4176, Cape Town, 8000 021 461 5804 announced at an event on 2 July, and operated business. They supply with the ten shortlisted companies superior quality dried fruit, nuts Cape Jewish Chronicle Trust, Standard Bank, present. The first part of the evening grains and healthy snacks. Leanne’s Thibault Square, Acc no: 070 703 493, Branch code: 020 909 involved speed-networking “with parents bought the business fifteen a representative from Nedbank, years ago and she joined them about Primemedia or Kaello Business five years ago.” Hub, so you had to talk about your For more information about Komati business to these people. Then, Foods, as well as its free deliveries in the last boardroom, you had to for orders over R500 within Cape R150 present your business to two judges, Town, visit www.komatifoods.co.za

Fill in the form below and send it in with payment of R150

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Order online: [email protected] Email: ...... Phone: ...... visit our webpage www.komatifoods.co.za (Not for publication) call 021 448 2130 visit us at 74 Lower Main Rd Observatory Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 21 Turning what we have into enough

Happiness is Measuring the grateful someone who easily finds the positive spot in his head so that it all still held wanting what you’ve got, not disposition with well-being in life. There is an understanding that together. to be grateful takes practice and getting what you want and and spirituality He played with passion and artistry, effort. This practice by no means turning what you have into spontaneously rearranging the Grateful people report higher levels ignores that we still live with pain or enough. symphony right through to the end. of positive emotions, life satisfaction, that we lack for important things in When he finally rested his bow, e have recently celebrated vitality, optimism and lower levels of our lives. It does, however, provide the audience sat for a moment in Shavout and one of the depression and stress. Disposition us with a tool to help us balance our W stunned silence and then they rose major themes of this holiday is the towards gratitude appears to focus between the things we lack and to their feet and cheered wildly. They expression of gratitude. The theme enhance pleasant feeling status the good we have. knew that they had been witness to going right back to the time of the more than it diminishes unpleasant There are many ways in which we an extraordinary display of human Temple where each person, upon emotions. can express gratitude and one of skill and ingenuity. bringing their first fruits to the temple Grateful people don’t deny or the tools given to us in Judaism is by would recite passages to express Pelmain raised his bow to signal for ignore the negative aspects of life, the blessings (Brachot) that we say. their gratitude for a successful quiet. “You know” he said, “ it is the they rather build on what issues Brachot can help us to slow down our harvest. artist’s task to make beautiful music materialise to enhance the situations. busy lives by creating stopping points with what you have left”. Modern-day gratitude and as we move through our daily routine. It has been found that those who thankfulness research, in an We have to wonder if he was regularly attend religious services There is a story — probably urban area of study known as ‘positive speaking of his violin strings or his and engage in religious activities legend, but full of truth nonetheless psychology’, has identified gratitude crippled body? Is it true only for such as prayer and reading religious — concerning the famous violinist as the ‘forgotten factor’ in happiness artists? We are all lacking something materials, are more likely to be Itzhak Perlman. research. and so we are challenged to answer grateful as they are more likely One evening, Perlman was in New the question: Do we have the attitude to acknowledge a belief in the Gratitude Interventions — York to give a concert. No sooner of making something of beauty out of interconnectedness of all life and a Psychological and Physical had he finished the first few bars what we have, incomplete as it may commitment to and responsibility to wellbeing than one of the strings on his violin be? others. Gratitude does not require snapped with a gunshot like force. religious faith, but faith enhances How about thinking about your last In an experimental comparison it was At that point he was close enough the ability to be grateful. The Hebrew 24-hours beginning with where you found that those who kept gratitude to the beginning of the piece that it term for gratitude is hakarat hatov, were this time yesterday and going journals on a weekly basis and would have been reasonable to have which literally means ‘recognising all the way through waking up today exercised more regularly, reported brought the concert to a halt while he the good’ and one tool for practicing and to this moment making a list of fewer physical symptoms and felt replaced the string, to begin again. gratitude is the ability to recognise what you are grateful for to recount better about their lives as a whole. But that is not what he did. He waited the good that is already ours. all the details in our lives that are They were also more optimistic about a moment and then signalled the worthy of our gratitude. the coming week compared to those When one opens up to the trait of conductor to pick up just where they who recorded hassles or neutral gratitude we are able to see clearly had left off. He now only had three May the month ahead be one filled life events. Persons who keep how much good there is in our lives. strings with which to play his soloist with gratitude and joy as we prepare gratitude lists are more likely to make One can become grateful when we part. He was able to find some of the for the upcoming holidays and the progress toward important personal consciously engage in the practice of missing notes on adjoining strings, changing of seasons. goals whether they are academic, gratitude and when we practice being but where that wasn’t possible, he Diana Sochen Executive Director interpersonal or health based. grateful it is easy to transform into had to rearrange the music on the Special Events August Social and Personal

Twilight Suppers Booking Essential for all evenings Births Woolfie and Glickie Bloom — great granddaughter Sea Point 13th Dr Anastasia Tomson explores diversity with empathy Ida Surovsky — great granddaughter R70 Sadie Graziani — great grandson Milnerton 22nd Deborah Two Oceans Marathon Organisation R70 Birthdays Wynberg 21st An evening with food entrepreneur Ina Paarman R70 Bennie Katzenberg 96, Barry Lipshitz 80, Charles Sacks 80, Bernard Saven OUTINGS 70, Ethel Stein 80, Ida Surovsky 85 S/Suburbs 5th Stephen Rautenbach Sculpture Gallery, Stellenbosch Engagements 19th Dunes Restaurant, Hout Bay Sadie Graziani — granddaughter 19th Saartjie Baartman Centre Becky Joffe — grandson 29th Spice Route, Paarl Ruth Katzeff — granddaughter Milnerton 27th Stephen Rautenbach Gallery, Stellenbosch. Alan and Silvana Silverman — granddaughter Sea Point 7th Stephen Rautenbach Gallery, Stellenbosch Bella Silverman — great granddaughter 21st Craft Exhibition in Milnerton Marriage 21st Kalk Bay to Save our Sea Exhibition Anita Stoch — grandson 28th Hillcrest Berry Farm, Stellenbosch Anniversary Selwyn and Leah Borkowf 50, Nat and Ettie Yamey 60 MEN’S SCHMOOZE We extend our wishes to our members who have not been well: Milnerton 2nd David Hersch R10 Brenda Madiesky Wynberg 14th David Hersch R10 We extend our sincere condolences to our members those who have lost Sea Point 28th David Hersch R10 family members: OT AZEY Deborah Hayes — brother in law Janice Ospovat-Burman — husband Sea Point 2 - 4 September with guest presenter, Shane Baker from Amanda Summerfield — father New York. Booking Essential. Maureen Summerfield — husband SAVE THE DATE We extend condolences to the family of members who have recently New Pathways for Ageing passed away CJSA Biennial Seminar Wednesday 6 November Brenda Morris, Herbert Hirsch R350 includes teas and lunch We welcome new members to the CJSA family: Alyson Franco, Felicity Krowitz-Osorio, Michelle and Godfrey Shev, David booking essential for all functions Whitelaw 22 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Cape Jewish Seniors

Monday 2 Tuesday 3 Wednesday 4 Thursday 5 Friday 6 Ot Azey Ot Azey Ot Azey Ot Azey Sea Point 9.15 JOY Programme at Alon Ashel Sea Point 9:30 Shopping with Sea Point 2.00 Reminiscing with Hazel R10 Sea Point Sea Point 10.15 Yiddish mit Veronica R10 Malcolm R20 10am - 3pm Milnerton 10.00 Pop In: Karin Pasche of the Cart Horse Protection Milnerton 10.15 Outing: Enjoy a morning at the Cape Quarter Milnerton 9.30 Classes with Karen Cohen R25 2.00 Bridge and Kalooki R10 10:30 Mon - Wed Association R10 R30. Tea for own account 9.30 Ageless Grace with Cathy Hudson R20 Milnerton 9.30 Kalooki R10 Milnerton Men’s Schmooze: Hessel Price R450 2.00 Musical Appreciation with Doreen R10 1.30 Mosaic with Sonia Norrie R30 S/Suburbs 10.00 Bnoth Zion S/Suburbs 10.30 Pop In: Janene Currie, Chairman of Bnoth Zion Meilach speaks on the Six S/Suburbs 9.30 Movie Morning The Green Book R10 2.00 Line Dancing with Cathy Hudson R20 10.15 Ageless Grace with Yvonne R20 WIZO R10 Day War R10 Early bird before 12 Aug S/Suburbs 9.30 Social Bridge R10 12 .00 DVD Series R10 1.00 Bridge and Kalooki R10 R420 10.00 Kalooki R10 West Coast 11.30 A morning with Lindsey Cracknell of the 2.00 Knitting Group R10 Budgerigar Society of South Africa R10 Monday 9 Tuesday 10 Wednesday 11 Thursday 12 Friday 13 Sea Point 10. 30 Irving Freeman Jewish Music Series Episode 5: Sea Point 10.00 Ageless Grace with Joycelyn R100 per month Sea Point 10.00 Craft with Yvette R15.00 Sea Point 9.15 JOY Programme at Alon Ashel Sea Point 9.30 Shopping with Yiddish Music R10 10.00 Talking Point with Colin R10 9.30 Outing to the Saartjie Baartman Centre R20 10.00 Yiddish mit Veronica R10 Malcolm R20 2.00 Reminiscing with Hazel R10 2.00 Mosaic with Yvette R30 1.45 Bridge and Kalooki R10 2.00 Bridge and Kalooki R10 2.30 Yoga with Leina Sank R10 17.30 Twilight Supper: Debra Barnes Two Oceans Milnerton 09.30 Art Classes with Karen Cohen R25 Milnerton 18.30 Twilight Supper: Stuart Diamond Director of the Milnerton 10.00 Audiologist Kylie Lee speaks on latest Marathon Organisation R60 9.30 Ageless Grace with Cathy Hudson R20 Cape SAJBD R60 developments with hearing aids and ways to improve Milnerton 10.00 Birthday Pop In: Lindsey Cracknell of the S/Suburbs 10.15 Ageless Grace with Yvonne R15 S/Suburbs 10.30 Irving Freeman Jewish Music Series Episode 5 lifestyle. All questions answered R10 Budgerigar Society of South Africa R10 10.00 Men’s Schmooze: Stuart Diamond, Director of the Yiddish Music 12.15 Milnerton Committee Meeting R10 1.30 Mosaic Classes with Sonia Norrie R30 Cape SAJBD R10 1.00 Bridge and Kalooki R10 S/Suburbs 9.30 Outing to the Pyjamas and Jam Restaurant at the 2.00 Line Dancing with Hannah Seinik 12.00 DVD Series R10 West Coast 10.30 Pop In: Karin Pasche of the Cart Horse Protection Strand R30 S/Suburbs 09.30 Social Bridge R10 Association R10 10.00 Kalooki R10 2.00 Knitting Group R10 West Coast 9.30 Outing to Cape Quarter R30. Tea for own account Muizenberg 10.30 Pop In: Shannon Pam on bringing energy to your life R10 Monday 16 Tuesday 17 Wednesday 18 Thursday 19 Friday 20 Sea Point 10.00 Pop In: Shannon Pam on bringing energy to your Sea Point 10.00 Ageless Grace with Joycelyn R100 per month Sea Point 9.00. Outing to Pyjamas and Jam restaurant in Strand R50. Sea Point 9.15 JOY Programme at Alon Ashel Sea Point 9.30 Shopping with life R10 11.00 Talking Point with Roni R10 Tea for own account 10.00 Yiddish mit Veronica R10 Malcolm R20 2.00 Bridge R10 2.00 Beginners Bridge with Irving R10 1.45 Bridge and Kalooki R10 2.00 Bridge and Kalooki R10 2.00 Reminiscing with Hazel R10 Milnerton 09.15 Outing Milnerton 9.30 Art Classes with Karen Cohen R25 Milnerton 09.30 Kalooki R10 2.30 Yoga with Leina Sank R10 1.30 Mosaic Classes with Sonia Norrie R30 9.30 Ageless Grace with Cathy Hudson R20 S/Suburbs 10.30 A morning with Lindsey Cracknell of the Milnerton 10.00 Irving Freeman Jewish Music Series Episode 5: 2.00 Line Dancing with Hannah Seinik 9.30 Kalooki R10 Budgerigar Society of South Africa R10 Yiddish Music R10 S/Suburbs 9.30 Outing to the Saartjie Baartman Centre R20 12.00 Visit Friends at Highlands House R20 Enjoy tea at West Coast 11.30 Irving Freeman Jewish Music Series Episode 5 12.15 Milnerton Committee Meeting R10 9.30 Social Bridge R10 their coffee shop Yiddish Music and special tea for Rosh Hashanah R10 3.00 Shiur with Rabbi Bernstein R10 10.00 Kalooki R10 S/Suburbs 10.15 Ageless Grace with Yvonne R20 S/Suburbs 9.30 Outing to Grand West Casino R20. Tea for own 2.00 Knitting Group R10 12 .00 DVD Series R10 account 17.30 Twilight Supper with Debra Barnes of the Two Oceans 2.00 Yiddish mit Rita R10 Marathon Organisation R60 Monday 23 Tuesday 24 Wednesday 25 Thursday 26 Friday 27 Sea Point 10.00 Pop In: Janene Currie Chairman of Bnoth with Sea Point 10.00 Ageless Grace with Joycelyn R100 per month Sea Point 9.30 Outing to Company Gardens R30. Tea for own Sea Point 9.15 JOY programme with Alon Ashel Learners Sea Point 9.30 Shopping with Rosh Hashanah Tea R20 10.00 Talking Point with Colin R10 account. 10.15 Yiddish mit Veronica R10 Malcolm R20 2.00 Bridge R10 2.00 Beginners Bridge classes with Irving R10 1.45 Bridge and Kalooki R10 1.45 Bridge and Kalooki R10 10.30 Men’s Schmooze: 2.00 Reminiscing with Hazel R10 Milnerton 9.30 Outing R30 to Kirstenbosch Gardens. R30. Tea for Milnerton 9.30 Art Classes with Karen Cohen R25 Milnerton 09.30 Kalooki R10 Stuart Diamond, Director 2.30 Yoga with Leina Sank R10 own account. 9.30 Ageless Grace with Cathy Hudson R20 S/Suburbs 10.30 Rosh Hashanah tea R20 of the Cape SAJBD Milnerton 10.00 Craft Beading with Sonia Norrie R25 1.00 Kalooki R10 S/Suburbs 10.15 Ageless Grace with Yvonne R20 West Coast 10.00 Art with Sharon Lopis R35 2.30 Rosh Hashanah tea R20 13.30 Mosaics with Sonia Norrie R20 12.00 DVD Series R10 S/Suburbs 9.30 Outing Enjoy a morning at the Cape Quarter R30. 1.45 Line dancing with Cathy Hudson Tea for own account S/Suburbs 9.30 Social Bridge R10 2.00 Yiddish mit Rita R10 10.00 Kalooki R10 2.00 Knitting Group R10 Monday 30

1st Day Rosh Hashanah Office Closed

DIRECTOR: Diana Sochen 021 434 9691 [email protected] ADMIN: Amanda 021 434 9691 [email protected] www.cjsa.org.za THE CAPE JEWISH CHRONICLE RECORDS ITS APPRECIATION OF THE CONTINUED SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS

Rubi and Anne With Compliments With compliments Chaitman FREDDY AND from Ben Rabinowitz in Foundation AGGIE HIRSCH memory of Shirley

MEYER HIRSCH THE HAROLD AND Goldschmidt GOLDSCHMIDT BEATRICE KRAMER Family FOUNDATION FOUNDATION Foundation Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 23 Cape Jewish Seniors Events Calendar SEPTEMBER 2019

1st Day Rosh Hashanah Office Closed

PROFESSIONAL STAFF: Sea Point: 021 434 9691; Milnerton: Hajiera Safidien–Maloon 021 555 1736; S/Suburbs: Monique Nieuwenhuys 021 761 7960; W/Coast: Stacey Melmed 074 405 5186 THE CAPE JEWISH CHRONICLE RECORDS ITS APPRECIATION OF THE CONTINUED SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS

With compliments With compliments THE SILVERMAN Stanley and Zea Lewis The Susman from Ben Rabinowitz in FAMILY FOUNDATION The Jack & Ethel memory of Shirley Foundation Goldin Foundation Charitable Foundation

With compliments With Compliments The Henry Van Embden Kalman, Esther and Family Foundation Michael Maisel Trust 24 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 TEMPLE ISRAEL CAPE TOWN PROGRESSIVE JEWISH CONGREGATION

Consider This Israeli Rabbi to Who is not going to Limmud? spend time in

By Rabbi Greg Alexander Cape Town

By the time you read this, I result of this Limmud policy decision, our comfort zone, hope you will have booked the Beth Din is unable to approve or but in doing so it your place for Limmud Cape verify this conference.” also gives us time to speak with those Town 2019. Let’s pause for a moment and who hold different, but deeply held see what question the Beth Din ou will find some of the best and thoughtful opinions, and in the is actually answering — they feel speakers, educators and thinkers interaction, we too learn and grow. Y unable to ‘approve or verify’ Limmud, in the Jewish world offering three days because Limmud by definition offers What are the Orthodox Beth Din of dynamic programming with panels, a marketplace of opinions, some of afraid of? That their rabbis will lectures, debates, culture, comedy, which they cannot agree with. Well, listen to a Progressive rabbi and Talmud, history, Israel and general hold on, that is actually not what is be persuaded? That in going to Jewish interest. You will eat delicious being asked for at all. To ‘approve Limmud they would be ‘endorsing’ kosher food and make your choice and verify’ an event is different to Progressive thinking? Give the Jews from the array of different Shabbat allowing rabbis who wish to to go. I of South Africa and your own rabbis services ranging from secular to don’t approve or verify every product a little more credit please. Do not fear Progressive, traditional egalitarian to on sale in Pick n Pay when I go shop the marketplace of ideas — perhaps Orthodox. You will find a mix of the there — some I put in my trolley and you will be pleasantly surprised by diverse Jewish community of Cape some I would rather not. The point is what you find there, and even if not, Town attending, from all the shuls that I am grateful for the opportunity you will lose nothing for attending. and those who attend none, elders to find the products I need, and just You will lose much by not attending. and kids and everyone in between. Rabbi Tamara Schagas will be because I don’t load up on sugary One prominent British Orthodox joining the rabbinic team while What you won’t find is an Orthodox breakfast cereals or think that non- rabbi likened the South African Beth Rabbi Greg Alexander is on rabbi or rebbetzin who serves a South free range eggs should even be sold, Din ruling to banning Jews from sabbatical in America. African shul. And that is because for does not stop me from choosing the attending the local library. the past 10 years the Orthodox Beit free-range ones that I ‘approve of’. abbi Tamara was born and I remember attending my first Din has forbidden their rabbis from raised in Buenos Aires, You see, if the Progressive Bet Din Limmud in the UK in 1998. At the first R attending. This was taken on review Argentina and made Aliyah in 2003. was to take the same approach as Shabbat dinner, sitting at a table with this year and not only was the ban She was ordained in 2015 at HUC- the Orthodox one, we would forbid a mix of Orthodox and Progressive upheld, but was now extended to JIR Jerusalem and serves as deputy our rabbis to go to Limmud too. friends, I burst into tears – I had rebbetzins as well. It should be noted director of the education department Alongside Progressive services, never experienced anything like that every year international Orthodox at Rabbis for Human Rights. Limmud offers services where only Limmud before. When I described it rabbis and rebbetzins attend Limmud men lead and only men are called to friends and colleagues in South She is very passionate about world in this country, and in other countries to Torah. Kiddush is led by men. Africa, they said that this could never Jewry and has served in the Board they are free to do so. South Africa is Presentations are offered that do not happen here. Well, it did and it does – of the World Union for progressive the only place worldwide where there include Progressive views. The public it has been for a decade and PG will Judaism and represented the is a ban on local Orthodox rabbis spaces of Limmud are ‘Shomrei for decades to come, and everyone movement as a delegate in the attending. In fact, the Orthodox Chief shabbat’ which of course means should experience it. World Zionist Organisation for over Rabbi of the UK, South African-born according to Orthodox interpretation. a decade. Her student pulpit was at Ephraim Mirvis, attends every UK When you read this, we will They serve food that is not eco- Comunitat Jueva Atid in Barcelona Limmud, explaining that, “One of already be on a sabbatical learning kosher often in disposable containers and she has worked closely with my primary functions is as teacher programme in New York City (more and the urns are left on over the communities in Europe, Latin of the community. I see Limmud about that next month), which means whole of shabbat to provide hot water America and North America. as an opportunity to teach Torah to that this will be the first Limmud Cape throughout, using a huge amount of large numbers of people who want to Town that Andi and I will miss since Rabbi Tamara is a social activist and unnecessary electricity. Presenters learn.” (London Jewish Chronicle) its inception 10 years ago. Please is involved in different organisations cannot use music or electronics to take up the tickets that we and our on issues of religion and state, Why are our local Orthodox Beth Din enhance their presentations over family cannot and make this the best asylum seekers and human rights in doing this? Because Limmud offers Shabbat, and participants are asked Limmud yet. Israel. those who attend the chance to hear not to take notes during not just Orthodox-sanctioned views, sessions. None of these but those from other streams of do we ‘approve of’ and if Mazaltov to those who celebrated Judaism. These views, according to asked to verify that these Bnei Mitzvah with us last month: the Beth Din, “do not promote Torah are indeed Progressive philosophy and principles”. Jewish practises we would say “no, they are When asked what they meant, not”. the organisation responded, “The Beth Din’s mandate is to uphold However, we are also halacha and Torah values within the part of the greater community. Underpinning everything Jewish community and we do is the fundamental belief in G-d we realise that to be part and the divine origin of the Torah. On of klal Yisrael involves questioning the Limmud team, we making compromises were told that these core beliefs are that will sometimes not a prerequisite for educators, nor make us uncomfortable. is it a prerequisite for content that It will stretch us beyond Joshua Dobrinsky Giyan Sulcas Zac Ashberg Adam Groll 1 July 6 July 20 July 27 July is delivered at the conference. As a Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 25 Their memory inspires us to serve our community

By Rabbi Greg Alexander

Bertha Sherman Harold Sandak-Lewin N’tanya Gordon-Davis Herbert Hirsch When a Jewish leader dies, the involvement. Bertha was a large Jews worldwide. It was through Progressive Federal Party in the City community mourns but also personality who worked hard in the WUPJ that he began his plans Council and Provincial Council from celebrates the life and work of the areas of Jewish education and to start the first rabbinical school 1977-1986 and became the president those who gave of their skills community development to bring in Cape Town and founded Beit of Cape Town Regional Chamber of and time to uplift the Jewish many people from the margins closer Limmudim with support from the Commerce and Industry in 1992. He to Torah and the Jewish people. She late Rabbis Jack Steinhorn and was a former chairman of Green and people. ran the cheder which at its peak had Rabbi David Hoffman and Professor Sea Point Ratepayers Association, emple Israel recently marked the 400 children enrolled and also the Gitai, which later transferred to the and a member of the Jewish Board Tpassing of four senior leaders religious instruction programme in Abraham Geiger Kolleg in Germany. of Deputies. the government schools, and helped Two of their graduates, Rabbi who made a lasting impact in the N’tanya Gordon-Davis was the first the Sisterhood become the force Malcolm Matitiani and Rabbi Richard Progressive and larger Jewish female president of Temple Israel they were. Nothing Rabbi Sherman Newman serve on the rabbinic team community as well as in greater and led the community with dignity did was done alone — Bertha was at Temple Israel still today. Harold Cape Town too. Founding Rebbetzin, from 2005 to 2008. She herself was next to him every step of the way. was a layreader and shofar blower Bertha Sherman, past presidents an expert in Torah leyning, having At 96-years-old she did not miss a and took on positions at the Zionist Harold Sandak-Lewin and N’tanya been taught by the late Rabbi David chance to come to shul, even coming Federation, the Jewish Board of Gordon-Davis and former vice- Hoffman and Norman Sandler. She the shabbat before she died. Deputies and the UJC. president and Cape Town City went on to teach the bnei mitzvah Councillor Herbert Hirsch. After Pesach we heard of the sudden Two more deaths followed in quick students and many adults at the Just before Pesach, the remarkable and unexpected passing of Harold succession in June. Herbert Hirsch shul for over a decade. Her rendition Bertha Sherman passed away at Sandak-Lewin who together with was a humble and quietly effective of the 10 commandments every 96 years strong. She together with his wife Helga have held between leader, working tirelessly behind Shavuot was a feature of that chag. her husband, the late Rabbi Dr them any and all positions a lay- the scenes to contribute to all the She served the Sisterhood, Zionist David Sherman helped to build the leader in our community can. Not committees that he involved himself Federation and the Jewish Board of Cape Town Progressive Jewish only a former President of the shul, in. Not only a Board member and Deputies and her energy will sorely Congregation from an idea to a Harold became the President of the Vice President of Temple Israel, he be missed. South African Union for Progressive had been active in politics all of his bustling reality of a shul which in May the memory of these communal Judaism (SAPUJ) and then the life, holding positions of Cape Town just over a decade grew from zero leaders inspire us all to share our Vice President of the World Union City Councillor and Cape Town to 2500 members and kept on own gifts with the community. growing over the decades of their for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), Provincial Councillor between 1972 representing more than 1.8 million and 1986. He led the opposition A wonderful night (and morning) of davening and study In recent years Shavuot has ith a beautiful, musical service the panel discussion on favourite through to a magnificent shacharit become a signature of all that Wstarting things off followed by Jewish sayings and a Jewish service, the feeling at the end was is wonderful about praying an entertaining and light-hearted General Knowledge Quiz led by that this had been our best Shavuot and learning in a Progressive discussion with Glynis Breytenbach Craig Nudelman, a discussion on ever. and Nik Rabinowitz, a fabulous Jewish sporting heroes and many Jewish way, and Shavuot 5779 Thank you to all who contributed to dinner and cheesecake competition, other interesting shiurim taking us was no different. making it such an excellent night.

Our cheesecake competition winners, Tim Bourne and Liesl The discussion panel Glynnis Breytenbach and Nik Rabinowitz Goldstein 26 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 27 28 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 29

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Call now to set up an appointment! Contact Daniel on 021 433 1721 or check out his website at www.danielpsychologist.com Operating in Sea Point and Tableview 30 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 JACOB GITLIN LIBRARY

Please visit www.gitlinlibrary.co.za to view all new books and the entire Gitlin collection FICTION Book of the Month GOOD RIDDANCE by ELINOR LIPMAN. In this smart, witty novel Lipman shows that nothing is private in today’s world THE JEWS OF THE TITANIC of social media and podcasts. Daphne Maritch discards her mother’s cherished and heavily annotated yearbook from the by ELI MOSKOWITZ Pickering High School class of 1968. Her neighbour, a self- his book focuses on the lives and deaths of proclaimed filmmaker, seizes it to turn into a documentary. Tthe Jewish passengers and crew on board When the two attend a reunion, Daphne learns a family secret the Titanic. Moskowitz provides a unique list of that will change her life forever. the Jews including those previously unknown. He covers keeping kosher on the voyage and LIAR by AYELET GUNDAR GOSHEN. This award-winning the heroism shown by many on the fateful night novelist explores how far a lie can travel before the truth especially Isidor and Ida Straus. The book seeps out. Nofar, a teenage girl is verbally humiliated by an continues after the sinking with issues of burial and embittered past celebrity in an ice cream parlour. After making Jewish involvement in the recovery of bodies. false accusations about him, she finds herself the centre of attention in her community as well as the media. The lie that slipped so easily from her tongue traps her in a moral dilemma with devastating consequences. BIOGRAPHY TOGETHER by JUDY GOLDMAN. A moving view of the THE THINGS WE CANNOT SAY by KELLY RIMMER. A Goldman’s marriage and account of her husband Henry’s narrative of survival and heartbreak set both in the present struggle to gain mobility after a routine procedure left him and Poland during the Second World War. Alice experiences partially paralysed. This loving tribute to her previously athletic difficulties as she has to tend to her seven-year-old autistic husband is a moving portrait of their life together. They had to son. When her beloved grandmother becomes ill, she faces assume new roles but for all their unexpected challenges, they more challenges when shown a picture from her grandmother made their marriage work. Together is the story of the life we Babcia’s past. She travels to Poland to search for the secret imagine versus the life we lead. truth that her grandmother is trying to share. MY MOTHER’S SPICE CUPBOARD by ELANA BENJAMIN. KADDISH.COM by NATHAN ENGLANDER. When Larry, A true story of a Sephardic Jewish family’s migration from secular son of an Orthodox family, needs to say Kaddish Baghdad to Bombay to Sydney. Elana’s parents were born for his father, he hires a stranger through a website to recite in Bombay and her upbringing was influenced by the food, this. Thereafter his suppressed grief for his father begins to language and culture of India and Iraq. It is about a community pour forth. He becomes Shuli moves to Brooklyn and teaches that no longer exists and shows how things have changed in Hebrew Studies. With the help of a computer whiz, he leaves four generations — family versus individuality; choice versus his close-knit family and travels to Israel to find Chemi from the obligation and tradition versus modernity. yeshiva and save his father’s soul. PROMISED LAND by MARTIN FLETCHER. Two German FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS Jewish brothers lost their family during the Holocaust. Arie lands up in Auschwitz and Peter is sent to America before INHERITANCE by DANI SHAPIRO. In 2016, Dani Shapiro the war. They reunite in Israel after the war — Arie became a whimsically submitted her DNA to a genealogy website for successful businessman and Peter a top Mossad agent. When analysis. She received the devastating news that the father who both fall in love with Tamara, a beautiful refugee from Cairo, raised her was not her biological father. Through investigative their relationship becomes strained. The brother’s intrigues journalism and genetic sleuthing, she comes to terms with the mirror the young nation’s struggle to survive. difficult decisions made by her deceased parents. Shapiro enriches the reader with her thoughts on and struggle with her PEARL THIEF by FIONA McKINTOSH. Severine Kassel is newfound identity and family. sent by the Louvre to help the British Museum curate antique jewellery. Nobody imagines that under her chic exterior lies a WHY DON’T YOU WRITE MY EULOGY NOW SO I CAN damaged woman. When some Byzantine pearls are loaned to CORRECT IT? by PATRICIA MARX & ROS CHAST. This the Museum, her life and identity are compromised. So begins book is a hilarious collaboration between New Yorker writer her frenzied hunt with a retired Mossad agent to find the Nazi, Patty Marx and cartoonist Roz Chast. The bon mots of Ruda Mayek, who murdered her beloved family and got away Patricia’s mother have been collected and accompanied by with it all, including the pearls. full colour illustrations. Her mother never hesitates to say what other mothers would not even think and in this book, Patricia HOLOCAUST provides the truth as her mother sees it! ELIE WIESEL by NADINE EPSTEIN. This illustrated gem by the editor of Moment magazine brings together interviews DATE: JACOB GITLIN LIBRARY with those who knew Wiesel including his son Elisha, Wolf Monday Blitzer, Natan Sharansky, Bernard Henri-Levi and Itzhak 19 August 2019 Perlman. The foreword is by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks and afterword by Ted Koppel. Epstein presents a visual history of TIME: this humanitarian, examining the influence of his seminal Night 5:30 for 6pm including speeches, writings and photographs. PLACE: 88 Hatfield Street BY CHANCE ALONE by MAX EISEN. Tibor ‘Max’ Eisen was Gardens Author Lauren born into a Hungarian Jewish family. In 1944 after the family Shapiro will be Seder, his family found themselves on cattle cars bound for RSVP: Tel 021 4625088 in conversation Auschwitz-Birkenau. At 15, after surviving the selection [email protected] with Clinical process he became a slave labourer. When he receives a Light refreshments served Psychologist severe blow from an SS guard, Polish Doctor Orzeszko saves Linda Lewis his life. After liberation, he found a new life in Canada and his memoir offers a message of hope.

Discover the benefits of becoming a Friend of the Gitlin. Email [email protected] or call 021 462 5088 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 31

Cape Town Holocaust & Genocide Centre Guided tours for adults an unprecedented success!

For the first time since its hear individual stories of victims, of inception, the CTHGC ran survivors and of rescuers. guided tours for adults during Because our guided tours have the school holidays. been so successful, the staff at the ith no more than 15 people per CTHGC has unanimously decided to Wgroup, participants were able make this a feature of our calendar to engage in a personal and intimate and we look forward to meeting many guided tour through our award more people through this forum. winning exhibition. Here is some feedback from the People from all walks of life participants: participated in the tours; many from “A very well- and knowledgably- outside of the Jewish community, presented tour – a must see and do!” with a genuine interest in developing “The world then and the world now and enhancing their knowledge of still have voices who say no to hate.” this history. Some of those within the “I am glad that there is education Jewish community who had never about such topics and one can reflect been part of a guided tour through and be able to hope.” our exhibition, commented on how inspired and moved they were to “Thank you so much for today. It was BRILLIANT!”

SEVENTY YEARS AFTER WWII, THE ‘ACCOUNTANT OF AUSCHWITZ’ GOES ON TRIAL AS AN ACCESSORY TO THE MURDER OF 300,000 PEOPLE. 32 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Choose Limmud CAPE TOWN Sunday 25th August Programme SESSION 1 How Politics in the West Balkans Banking on housing - a The Three Battles for Israel's Boerejodin: Intersectionality Inﬂuences Jewish Communities pathway out of poverty Survival: Security, Legitimacy, in the Poetry of Olga Kirsch of this Region ILANA MELZER Identity CLAUDIA HARRISON SONJA VILICIC (Tikkun Olam & Social Justice) DANIEL TAUB (Israel) (Arts, Culture & Performance) (Jewish Life, Current Affairs)

Israel & Anti-Semitism: Israel & Israeli Innovation Existential Danger or Historical Meets Tikkun Olam Anachronism? AYELET TAUB RODNEY MAZINTER (Tikkun Olam & Social Justice) (Jewish Life)

SESSION 2 The SA economy – what future Making Sense of the Auschwitz The Shape of Torah Past, Why Call it Occupation? does it hold for Jewish South Site Today Present & Future A Political & Legal Analysis Africans? JONATHAN WEBBER BRETT LOCKSPEISER of the West Bank Map BRIAN KANTOR (History, Holocaust) (Torah, Emunah & Philosophy) JESSICA MONTELL (Business & New Trends) (Israel)

Who counts as a person? PANEL Follow Me: How to An Inﬁnity of Hallelujahs: Healing Through Writing Disability after Esidimeni Build an Online Following Unlocking the Secret Chords of Your Story LESLIE SCHWARTZ Arthur Goldstuck, Dean Horwitz Leonard Cohen's Masterpiece LAUREN SHAPIRO (Tikkun Olam & Social Justice) Vanessa Rafaely & Glen Stein GUS SILBER (Mind, Body, Soul) (New Trends & Business) (Culture)

SESSION 3 Sarajevo Ritual Playground Space Odyssey #metoo - What Vashti & AIMEE NTULI-GOLDSMITH JESSICA KATE MEYER ILAN GADOT Esther Can Teach Us about (Arts, Performance & Culture) (Mind, Body, Soul) (New Trends) Responding to Abuses of Power session 3 & session 4 WENDY AMSELLEM (Torah, Emunah & Philosophy)

PANEL The Business of A Data Driven Snapshot of Breaking Bones, Fracturing Jedi Tedi: a Story of Hope & Entertainment Cape Town's Jews Faith Healing Glen Biderman, Pam & Danny K, ADAM MENDELSOHN MICKIE JACOBS SHANA AND JED KAGAN Ari Kruger, Julia Anastopolous (Jewish Life) (Mind, Body, Soul) (Tikkun Olam & Social Justice) (Arts, Culture & Performance)

Register now at quicket.com Full weekend programme available online soon: www.limmud.org.za Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 33

SESSION 4

Sarajevo Salmon Tank Yearnings: Embracing the PANEL Topic TBC AIMEE NTULI-GOLDSMITH EITAN STERN, ROY FINE Sacred Messiness of Life Jessica Montell, Calev Ben Dor (Arts, Performance & Culture) (Entrepreneurship) IRWIN KULA Gloria Greenﬁeld & session 3 & session 4 (Mind, Body, Soul) Wayne Sussman

South Africa 2021: Torah Wisdom in 2019 PROJECT BAYIT LAUNCH: Pressure & Promise RABBI BRIAN OPERT How you can restore dignity DANIEL SILKE (Torah, Emunah & Philosophy) through housing! (Politics and Current Affairs) GINA FLASH (Tikkun Olam)

SESSION 5 HELEN ZILLE & Stories from the Show Urban Planning & Environmental The Heretic's Disciple MICHAEL BAGRAIM MISHY HARMON Protection- Lessons from the WENDY AMSELLEM in conversation. (Arts, Performance & Culture) Jerusalem District (Torah, Emunah & Philosophy) AVI BEN TZUR (Tikken Olam, Israel)

Jews & Anxiety: Is Our People Co-existence of Jews & Muslims Agudas Achim - Band of Gustav Mahler The Isiah of the More Anxious than Most? in Iran Brothers: Rural Jewry in the 20th Century MARION ROM ARASH ABAIE Town of Stellenbosch DENNIS DAVIS (Mind, Body, Soul) (Workshop) (Jewish Life) DAVID BENJAMIN GROSS (History/holocaust/arts & culture) (Jewish Life)

SESSION 6 My Journey into Jewish - Trump's Deal of the Century: Remember Baghdad Understanding What Relationship Muslim Dialogue Dead on Arrival or Opportunity EDWIN SHUKER Difﬁculties are About & What HAROON MOGUL for Two State Break-Through? (History) One Can Do About Them (Jewish Life) CALEV BEN DOR RUTH LEVIN-FORSTER (Israel) (Mind, Body, Soul)

"Hack me a Tshaynik" My Dear Children Pride & Prejudice in Our Screening of "The Fight Of Our ARTHUR GOLDSTUCK Judy Favish, Veronica Belling, Interpretations of Text Lives - Defeating The Ideological (Business & New Trends) Richard Mendelsohn & Lisa Chait ELIE HOLZER War Against The West" (Jewish Life) FILM SCREENING (Torah, Emunah & Philosophy) Gloria Greenﬁeld (Jewish Life) 75mins & discussion 2 hours ends at 16h40 81mins ends at 16h00

SESSION 7 From the Pianist to the Pulpit Orthodoxy, Romantic Love & Bacons Law, Barbara Streisand & Hands on with Sefaria: Making JESSICA KATE MEYER Relationships. The Blue Oyster Cult Source Sheets (Jewish Life) ARI ENGELBERG BENJI BLUMENTHAL BRETT LOCKSPEISER (Jewish Life) (Arts, Culture & Performance) (Torah, Emunha & Philosophy)

Israel & Us: Screening: My Dear Children Pride & Prejudice in Our Screening: "The Fight Of Our A Community Dialogue Judy Favish, Veronica Belling, Interpretations of Text Lives - Defeating The Ideological IRWIN KULA Richard Mendelsohn & Lisa Chait ELIE HOLZER War Against The West" (Israel) (Jewish Life) (Torah, Emunah & Philosophy) GLORIA GREENFIELD (Jewish Life) 75mins & discussion 2 hours ends at 16h40 81mins ends at 16h00

23rd to 25th August 2019 UCT Graduate School of Business V & A Waterfront 34 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019

A view from the bar War and the Constitution

By Anton Katz The United States, Iran, North peace keeping operations in foreign Deputy President Mbeki were out Taking into account Korea and Russia are just a States. of the country. Chief Mangosuthu calls for reduced Buthelezi, the Minister of Home military expenditure sample of countries that raise But if the President declares a Affairs at the time, was sworn in as in the interests of interesting and difficult issues state of national defence, that is the Acting President. The Acting development and of inter-state conflict or war. declares war then he must inform President was informed that Lesotho human security; Parliament promptly. And he must emen, Syria and DRC raise was on the brink of a violent coup, give appropriate detail of the reason Avoiding contributing to terrorism the spectre of civil war. Israel, and that the South African national Y for the declaration, any place where and crime; and the states surrounding it have defence force was needed to prevent the defence force is being employed not been entirely isolated from ‘anarchy’ and restore ‘a stable Taking into consideration the and the number of people involved. serious violence involving war like environment for law and order.’ In the conventional arms control system If Parliament does not approve conditions. Fortunately, South Africa first three days of the intervention 113 of the recipient country and its the President’s declaration of war has been relatively immune from the people were killed. record of compliance with end-user within seven days it lapses. After horrors of war over the last 25 years certificate undertakings, and avoid seven days the war would become This solitary event demonstrates of its constitutional life. Of course, the export of conventional arms to a unlawful and unconstitutional with the immense power, and indeed that has not always been the case. government that has violated an end- the requisite approval. responsibility, the President enjoys. Over the past couple of centuries user certificate undertaking; Was South Africa’s intervention an South Africa has had its fair share of Although a trigger happy President attempt to prop up an illegitimate Taking into account the inherent war involvement. The Mfecane Wars could cause widespread and massive regime or was it a genuine move right of individual and collective self- in the early part of the 19th century chaos with huge and necessary to protect democracy and the rule defence of all sovereign countries in through the Anglo Boer war, the loss of life by waging war without of law. Similar considerations have terms of the United Nations Charter; involvement in World War II and the timeous oversight, it is appreciated applied in Venezuela recently. The international crime of apartheid are that foreign affairs, Avoiding the export of conventional US and Russia mere examples of participation or and the exercise of arms that may be used for purposes have taken different connection to war. war powers usually The primary object of the other than the legitimate defence and views as to who is require split second defence force is to defend security needs of the government of But, what does the Constitution, the the proper and legal decision making. the country of import. supreme law, say about war. Who and protect South Africa, ruler is in that South Another factor to be has the power to declare war? And its territorial integrity and American State. considered is the Regulation of Foreign Military in what circumstances would the its people in accordance possible interests a Two other Assistance Act exercise of the war power be lawful? particular President with the Constitution interesting legal The Constitution establishes a may have in the and international law aspects arise in the This regulates the rendering of foreign defence force, which is the only lawful use of force. He regulating the use of war setting: military assistance by South African military force in South Africa. In other may wish to divert citizens and permanent residents. words, private military institutions or force. the population from Arms exports The Regulation Act has its origin organisations are wholly prohibited. his own political in the unlawful use of mercenaries The National Conventional Arms throughout Africa to destabilise The SANDF failures and/or illegal conduct. Or he may have a financial interest in Control Act establishes a Control States and assist in coup d’états. Committee to apply and ensure a The primary object of the defence the war machine. Or he may have But the law goes far wider than legitimate, effective and transparent force is to defend and protect South personal animosity against those mercenaries. It applies to all foreign process regarding trade in Africa, its territorial integrity and in power in a foreign state. The military assistance.It prohibits South conventional arms. The Committee its people in accordance with the possible different situations are Africans from taking part or assisting has wide ranging powers to approve Constitution and international law many and varied. Let’s hope the in foreign military assistance, which is applications for permits to trade in regulating the use of force. The seven day window is enough, and widely defined, without authorisation conventional arms. Each application President is Commander-in-Chief that it never becomes necessary from a Control Committee. The only must be determined on a case-by- of the defence force, and must for Parliamentary approval of a excluded activities are humanitarian case basis; taking the following into appoint the Military Command. Only Presidential declaration of war. or civilian activities aimed at relieving account: the President may authorise the the plight of civilians in an area of In twenty five years of democracy the armed conflict. employment of the defence force in only recorded occasion on which the Safeguarding the national security defence of South Africa or in fulfilment war power has been utilised was in interests of the Republic and those of Thus all South Africans intending to of an international obligation, such as 1998 when President Mandela and its allies. take part military activities outside Avoiding contributing to internal South Africa, whether as part of repression, including the systematic the armed forces of a foreign state violation or suppression of human or dissident armed forces or other rights and fundamental freedoms; armed groups are well advised to obtain legal advice, and if necessary Avoiding transfers of conventional to apply for and obtain the necessary arms to governments that authority before the rendering LITHUANIAN CITIZENSHIP systematically violate or suppress of assistance as set out in the human rights and fundamental Regulation Act. freedoms and to those that are likely Free legal consultations on Lithuanian citizenship issues; to contribute to the escalation of There are rumours that the Control Free legal analysis of your options for obtaining Lithuanian regional military conflicts, endanger Committee has been dysfunctional peace by introducing destabilising for some years; but it is not clear citizenship; whether if the rumours are true Preparation and submission of documents to Migration military capabilities into a region or otherwise contribute to regional whether that would excuse failure to department in Lithuania; instability; obtain authorisation. Search of documents in the archives of Lithuania. Adhering to international law, norms and practices and the international Anton Katz SC, a senior counsel More information: www.migration.lt obligations and commitments of the practicing at the Cape Bar, was Please write: [email protected] Republic, including United Nations a member (2011-2018) of the UN Phone/ WhatsApp: +370 6 8563053; Skype: migrationlt Security Council arms embargoes; Human Rights Council Working Group on mercenaries

Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 35 From Thought to Form — dynamic Be the change

international council held The Holocaust can be a difficult topic to teach and learn about. in Jerusalem It can be even harder to assess, especially in a Jewish classroom. Nestled on the hilltops her time at the council: ow do we assess young Jews on a of Jerusalem stands the I went with a completely open subject that is not just horrific, but extraordinary Israel Museum. mind, without pre-conceived H also tends to be deeply personal? One ideas or expectations. I can teeped in history and rich with of the main focuses in the Holocaust honestly say I was not prepared cultural treasures assembled module is inspiring students to stand S for the exceptional and profound around their vast indoor and up against even the smallest injustice, experience of the last three days. outdoor galleries, it is one of the so as to make sure such horrific events world’s leading encyclopaedic We were able to choose from a do not take place again. This can be Museums. Weaving stories, number of curator-led exhibition summed up by the famous quotation narratives and traditions spanning tours. Highlights included: Veiled by Edmund Burke, ‘The only thing Chana van Zyl said Tehillim with over 5000 years, the Museum has Women of the Holy Land, Through necessary for the triumph of evil is for Highlands House residents built a far-ranging collection of over Time and Space: the Diary of good men to do nothing’. 500 000 objects. Astronaut Ilan Ramon and a Scroll From this notion, the Be the Change project from the Dead Sea, Peter and Pan: Every year during the first week of was conceived. In answer to the atrocities of from Ancient Greece to Neverland, June, the Museum’s international the Holocaust, learners are urged to bring a Maimonides — a legacy in Script, Friends from across the globe positive change to society. The project has to be Victory over the Sun, Russian meet in Jerusalem for a four-day systematically planned, with the entire process Avant-Garde and Beyond, and International Council. This art documented in a final visual presentation. The Julia Rosefeldt’s Manifesto. and cultural experience provides learner must also write a paragraph at the end an opportunity for participants to We also participated in workshops reflecting on the experience. This includes what enjoy new exhibitions and events, led by curators, experts and artists. they have learned, as well as evaluating what mingle with Museum curators and These dynamic presentations worked and what didn’t work in their project. professional staff, and connect represented a broad cross section Some examples of the fantastic changes CTTH with others from around the world. of the arts in Israel. What they students have made over the years are: opening had in common was the way each The 2019 Council, titled From a street soup kitchen to feed the homeless, artist represented some of the Thought to Form, focused on collecting clothing to send to victims of the core values of the Israel Museum, Sam Gawronsky collected for the creative process behind the Tikvah cyclone in Mozambique, collecting books and namely innovation, inclusivity curation and production of the toys for underprivileged children, raising money and tolerance. It was inspiring to exhibitions — from concept to for extra murals for orphans, fundraising to support local charities, spending time see how the arts can be used to completion. Over 100 patrons with the elderly at Highlands House, and more. from 12 countries enjoyed a preserve cultural identity and also behind-the-scenes glimpse into to synthesise the old with the new. This project teaches compassion, kindness and how small acts can make the inner workings of the Museum The artists, all working in different a difference to the lives of others. The through a programme of activities, mediums, demonstrated how reflections students have made stand workshops, lectures and events. art can be used as a vehicle for testament to this. One student said she building bridges, bringing people had learned that there are always others The South African Friends of the together and instigating positive that have less than us in life. Not only Israel Museum (SAFIM) is one of 16 social change. does this mean we should be grateful international Friends associations for what we have, but also that we are This account would be incomplete promoting and supporting the in a position to help others however we without mentioning the social programming, exhibitions, can. Another reflected that in helping components which were great fun publications, and special events others, we can also grow and improve and facilitated the forging of new that have become the hallmark of ourselves. More student feedback was the friendships. The various lunches, the Israel Museum. SAFIM is the realisation that it is possible for anybody dinners and receptions were sole sponsor of the Museum’s Youth to make a change, and even the tiniest carefully designed so that every Wing Outreach Programme for act of kindness matters. There are also gathering was elevated to a multi- children of Ethiopian Immigrants. other valuable life skills that are learned sensory experience, which offered For many of these children, this is through the process: taking initiative, time equal elements of surprise and their first exposure to various forms management, communication, planning, delight. of art and craft, and particularly to and organisation. It was even said that the Museum. The council culminated in a every school should run this project. Torah High girls clean up the beach spectacular final dinner in an At this year’s Council Marco van All in all, Be the Change is an invaluable illuminated forest grove. Harpists, Embden, SAFIM Co-chairperson, project, encouraging both kindness to others and personal growth. CTTH is movement artists and aerialists was a recipient of the prestigious excited to see the positive changes its students will bring in years to come. Honorary Fellowship Award given entertained us under the crescent during a ceremony at the council. moon. Personally, what I valued The award recognised Marco’s most was the range and high significant role in founding SAFIM calibre of all the content and the and his on-going commitment to its opportunity to meet and get to know cause. Participants also delighted people from around the world. This in sharing the unveiling of SAFIM’s experience seemed to parallel the recent acquisition to the Museum’s Council theme From Thought to collection, Zanele Muholi’s Zibuyile Form — the spark of creativity: Parktown, which has pride of new ideas and friendships, and place in the African Art Gallery. finding the form: the pathways to SAFIM’s two interns were on-hand sustain meaningful engagement to welcome guests and share with others, the arts and Israel. their knowledge and experiences To become a member of SAFIM, gained. participate in unique art events or Karen Fisher, SAFIM Member and for more information please contact first-time participant, reflects on Sarin Goott: [email protected] Sasha Katz collected for Hope Haven 36 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 The story of Krav Maga and its creator

On 27 June the SAJM opened its latest exhibition; Imi Lichtenfeld, Krav Maga and its Creator. he exhibition chronicles the Tlife story of Imi Lichtenfeld, the man who developed the ‘Israeli martial art’ Krav Maga. Lichtenfeld’s fascinating life story encompasses the rise of Nazism in his home town of Bratislava, Slovakia, Aliya to Palestine, the development of Krav Maga as a self-defense technique for the IDF. A truly fascinating story, particularly given the global rise in popularity of Krav Maga as a self-defense discipline. Loren Raize, the new executive director at CSO spoke at the opening to a crowd that included CSO volunteers, SAJM guests and Krav Maga enthusiasts. She talked about the importance of Jewish communities worldwide taking personal responsibility for their safety and security, a philosophy shared by Lichtenfeld, and evident from his life’s work. Top left: Loren Raize, the new executive director at Imi Lichtenfeld, Krav Maga and CSO addresses the crowd. its Creator will be on exhibition at the SAJM until the end of August Imi LIchtenfeld, Krav Maga and its Creator will be on 2019. exhibition at the SAJM until the end of August

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By Veronica Belling On 16 June, the 2400 Jews of or Philip Rabinowitz. His idea was Birzai who were murdered taken up by Glenda and Abel Levitt, in August 1941 during the former South Africans living in Kfar massacre at Astravas in the Saba, who received the Lithuanian Pakamponys Forest four Medal of Diplomacy on its behalf that was featured in last month’s kilometres outside the town, Chronicle. Their efforts would were honoured with a new never have succeeded without the memorial bearing the names of cooperation of their Lithuanian 525 of the victims. partners, Merunas Jukonis and his his memorial had an incredibly father Vidmantas, and the support of Tlong gestation period of four the Israeli ambassador to Lithuania, and a half years during which it Amir Maimon. had to overcome several seemingly A party of fifty descendants of the insurmountable obstacles along the town accompanied Benny and way. The memorial owes its creation Glenda and Abel to take part in the to Cape Town businessman, Benny unveiling of the memorial. The largest Rabinowitz, who wanted to do component of the group were former something for his ancestral town of Capetonians living in Israel, a slightly Birzh the home of his father, Faivl smaller number (including non- The unveiling of the monument at Pakamponys Forest South Africans) came from the righteous gentiles who had sheltered Centre, one of about 135 that exist United States with Jews, after which the crowd walked in Lithuania today, where their latest six from Cape the same four kilometres to the forest project is ‘Our Neighbour Jew.’ After Town, two from that the Jews had taken on the way to the presentation eleven members the UK and three their deaths. of the group went to speak to senior students in different classrooms. from France. The What was unique about this tour was designer of the the interaction with local inhabitants Also inspiring was meeting local monument was Dr of the town that preceded the Lithuanian Jews, such as Assia Joe Rabie, a former unveiling. The first was hosted by Gutterman from Kaunas (Kovno) Capetonian, the Birzai Museum located in the and Shmuel Kerbelis from Siauliai living in Paris old Castle, where in the morning (Shavli), the children of Holocaust with his family. five members of the group spoke to survivors who have never left The unveiling five different groups of high school Lithuania, and who besides their was preceded by students. Lithuanian home tongue, speak an a tree planting authentic Litvish Yiddish! ceremony in the In the afternoon a conference was town to honour the held where two young Lithuanian The ceremony doctoral candidates from the University of Vilnius, spoke about the history of the Jews of Lithuania between the two World Wars and on Jewish death records, respectively, together with presentations from the group by Yael Laraby from Israel who spoke about Jewish traditions and customs and my own presentation on our Litvak heritage. All the presentations were in English. The following day the group visited the Saules Gimnasija where the principal, Dainius Korsakas, teachers and students presented a history of the school including their research into the students of the school who were murdered during the Holocaust. So far fifty of some two hundred have been identified. They also The group entering the Birzu Saules Memorial walkway with names of victims inscribed introduced their Tolerance Education Gimnasija

Benny Rabinowitz next to the marble stone listing the donors The crowd following the path to the forest of the Jewish victims 38 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 SIMCHA SNAPS

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By Bonnie Berkowitz On 26 May 2019, Felix Klein, Continental Europe was dealing to acknowledge that while the trend principles of fairness and inclusivity, the German government’s with the violence of radical Islamic towards an increase in votes for far- then it is time for citizens to wake up Commissioner on Anti- extremist groups like, ISIS/ISIL, right parties might show a variation and question who, and what they are Semitism suggested that which distracted decisions-makers, among individual nation-states, the voting for! Interpol, security agencies, and net effect across Europe amounts to Jews should not always wear Far-right political ideology gives observers from the expansion of the a significant increase of the far-rights license to those who are prepared the traditional Kippah cap in far right in Europe. In addition, the political representation within the to commit acts of aggression and public, due to the increase in 2008/9 economic crisis damaged European Union’s Parliament. violence against innocent people anti-Jewish attacks by far-right the economies of many European On 8 April 2019, the leader of the wearing Kippot, or those who have extremists. countries. Italian Lega Nord, Salvini, declared brown skin. Concretely, we all need he Israeli President Reuven Meanwhile, an influx of economic the launch of a new right-wing to contribute to raising awareness, TRivlin expressed his “shock” immigrants traversed from the populist alliance to be known as the before it becomes too late - whether at Klein’s remarks, accusing the Eastern Europe to Western Europe. European Alliance for Peoples and it is in the work-place, places of “German government of bowing Refugees facing the devastation Nations (EAPN), and composed of worship, schools, universities and to those targeting Jews”. This of war, like Jewish refugees in the 10 parties from a cross-section of in our communities. We also need marks a dangerous departure Second World War, came from the nations, whose objectives are to to conduct research and training, to for the escalating phenomenon Middle East, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, push-back against immigration and equip ourselves with knowledge of of antisemitism, with the first and North Africa. multiculturalism, ideas espoused the origin and effects of the forces of official statement targeting Jewish by Breivik in 2011. The coalescing intolerance on the lives of innocent Cas Mudde, of the Centre for the appearance and using physical of this far-right formation, would people. Radical Right (CARR), suggests that identification, which is reminiscent of make it the fourth largest political “the far right’s “mythological” Aryan As citizens of the world, we need the targeting of Jews, with the Yellow formation in the EU Parliament. The Europe was now being fragmented to stand up and be counted, and Star of David, prior to and during the EAPN may not yet be in a position by the influx of these refugees who recognise the warnings from history. Holocaust. Consequently, we have to to alter the decision-making power, created a multi-cultural society As the eminent philosopher, George interrogate if this targeting is isolated but it demonstrates the increasing and who took jobs away from “real Santayana warned us, “those who to Jews and question whether the and significant shift towards far- Europeans”. Mudde notes that those forget their history are condemned to rise of far-right extremism being right populism among ‘ordinary’ “other” rather than “real Europeans” repeat it.” taken seriously. European voters. While democracy were being identified, thus as a result, should always be considered a Bonnie Berkowitz is an Independent On 22 July 2011, the far-right the far right and far right populist moral good, when it unleashes the Researcher and a former Lecturer extremist, Anders Breivik, killed 77 culture started to slowly seep into forces of intolerance and promotes at the University of Western Cape, young people on the Island of Utoya everyday politics, growing steadily policies that go against the central Cape Town, South Africa in Norway, where a multicultural over the years, some of which has youth camp was being convened. been disguised by being “euro- Europeans were ‘surprised’ at what sceptics” and “nationalist politics”. had happened, and initially attempts In Hannah Arendt’s important book, were made to prosecute Breivik Banality of Evil, she warns of how as an ‘insane’ man undertaking a easily evil can becomes normalised ‘once-off’ massacre. However, on in ordinary society. appeal Breivik was deemed sane and convicted. In Following the last his own defence, EU Parliamentary Breivik spoke of ...an influx of economic elections, held belonging to a immigrants traversed from 26 to 28 May collective “we” 2019, the general from the Eastern Europe sentiment was when referring to to Western Europe. his links with other that far- right and far-right groups, like Refugees facing the Eurosceptic parties the English Defence devastation of war, like had not gained that League. Jewish refugees in the much, however this was contradicted Breivik stated Second World War, came by the analysis. that his acts were from the Middle East, a declaration Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, The EU Parliamentary of war against and North Africa. “multiculturalism” elections were a and the protection of mixed bag for far- European “culture”. On 27 July 2011, right parties, with the BBC reported that the Italian some gaining and other loosing Member of the European Parliament votes. The largest percentage (MEP), Francesco Speroni, of the increases were in Italy, with a 33% right wing Lega Nord, said that: of the total vote for the Far Rights, “Breivik’s ideas are in defence of followed by Sweden (15%), Finland western civilisation.” Europe was (13%), Slovakia (12%), Belgium already changing and incidences like (11%), Germany (10%) and Spain these were not being taken seriously (6%), according to the European enough. Similarly, sentiments Parliament. and acts of anti-Semitism were However, a number of countries increasing, fuelled by extremists. also saw a decrease or a retention The mainstream downplayed this of their previous percentage of phenomenon and believed that the the overall votes for the far-right institutions of liberal democracy parties including: France with a would contain the spread of far-right 23%, Austria (17%), and Denmark extremism. (10%). Consequently, it is important 42 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 Using my Nudel Celebrating diversity in our community

By Craig Nudelman At the end of the second very evident throughout the tour. incredible experience, working with denominations. people who, although I may have Rabbi Lebens term, two colleagues and I The educational value of the tour was had differences of opinions on nearly stated that to accompanied 24 pupils on an not lost on our pupils. They could everything, worked together for the disengage with excursion to Gauteng on a see the intricacies of our past and common good of the community. Limmud is to allow members of the history tour. It was fantastic! our future, and the questions that Limmud really takes you one step community to fall through the cracks they posed were of such a higher e went to Maropeng and the further on your Jewish journey, and discourage that platform from order, showing that Herzlia really Cradle of Humankind; to the wherever you may be. But Limmud is which people can ‘argue for the sake W does imbue in many of their pupils Hector Pieterson Museum and not without its controversies. of heaven’. excellent critical thinking skills. Mandela House (the day after Youth However, I feel that the ‘differences’ Since its inception in South Africa In the Ethics of our Fathers, we learn Day, which was especially poignant); they were taught about at our various 13 years ago, Limmud has had that one cannot judge another before to Pretoria, seeing the juxtaposition stops may have further entrenched a tenuous relationship with the understanding exactly what one is of the Voortrekker Monument and the idea of the distance between Orthodox Rabbinate. Chief Rabbi Dr judging: Freedom Park (a road links the two, them and ‘the other’. It’s useful to Warren Goldstein and the Rabbinic although it isn’t very well-known); Hillel said: Do not separate yourself remember that difference is not Association of South Africa have Liliesleaf Farm (where the Rivonia from the community; and do not trust always a negative concept though, boycotted the conference, on many Trialists were captured) and the in yourself until the day of your death. as it leads to debate, discussion different grounds. However, recently Apartheid Museum; and finally Do not judge your fellow until you are and openness. One place where the Beth Din once again publicly Constitutional Hill. I think the kids in his place. Do not say something this occurs in our own community is stated that attendance at Limmud by were museumed out by the end of that cannot be understood (now) but Limmud. rabbis and rebbetzins will continue it, but it was well worth it. Taking in will be understood in the end. Say to be prohibited. According to the everything we saw, from the beginning As some of you might know, I was not: “When I have time, I will study”, Beth Din’s statement, reported of our history to our current times, actively engaged in Limmud for many because you may never have the on 20 June 2019 in the South I realised that although we humans years, co-chairing the Conference time (Pirkei Avot 3:5). African Jewish Report, they cannot come from common ancestors, we in Cape Town in 2014 and 2015. I endorse attendance at Limmud due The Dayanim who have cast their do not acknowledge this. We tend to was also co-chair of programming to the fact that it promotes values judgement against Limmud have focus on our individual and collective in Jo’burg in 2012 and in Cape Town which are contrary to “the Torah’s separated themselves from the identities, not our original origins. We in 2013. It was a rollercoaster ride of philosophy and principles”. They community. We are a community see ‘us’ and ‘the other’, and that was emotions, but through it all it was an further stated that “these core beliefs which is multifaceted; a community are not a prerequisite for educators who should celebrate difference. (at Limmud), nor is it a prerequisite They have judged Limmud according Sign up for our new exciting courses in Cape Town for content that is delivered at the to a one-off meeting with the conference”. However, what are leadership, instead of attending the In partnership with Camps Bay Shul these core beliefs and how have they Conference to fully understand the come to the conclusion that Limmud complexities. As for their argument, & Phyllis Jowell School does not follow them? they have not fully explained how they came to that conclusion. It is These core values of Limmud are as imperative that they be there, even follows: learning; expanding Jewish if this means witnessing the values horizons; enabling connections; which may be contrary to the Torah participation; empowerment; and its principles. diversity; community and mutual responsibility; respect; arguments We see ‘the other’ all the time. We for the sake of heaven; and religious are a diverse community and should observance. These values are ones celebrate our otherness. We should 4 Thursday Morning Sessions Starts 8 August which we hold dear as Jews — we accept that we are different, and our believe in diversity as a nation; we views may not always be in synch. acknowledge the importance of This value is critical to pass down to arguments; and we always seek out the generations to come. If we can’t 1948 respect for all. accept each other’s differences, we are creating an intolerant and The week following the publication of narrow-minded community. I do not the Beth Din’s statement, the South want my daughters to grow up in a African Jewish Report was inundated community that is heterogenous in with letters in support of Limmud, as its views, where opinions are shut well as from past presenters who are down because they do not conform leaders in their communities. Rabbis to some grand narrative. So, to the Samuel Lebens and Nathan Lopes “We have no alternative.” rabbis who may read this, go to Cardozo, both Orthodox rabbis Limmud and do not separate yourself – Golda Meir from overseas who have presented from the community. May we see a at Limmud South Africa, objected Join the Academy and Rabbi Ramon Widmonte in partnership with Camps Bay Shul and strong and robust South African to the Beth Din’s prohibition. Rabbi Phyllis Jowell School as we explore the effects of the UN partition plan, navigate pre-1948 Jewry in the very near future. Cardozo challenged the rabbinate independence and tackle the issues which David Ben Gurion, Golda Meir, Menachem Begin to be courageous and not be Craig is a teacher, father and Jewish and other leaders faced in the creation of the State of Israel. seen as ‘afraid’ of other religious observer Contact us to sign up and for more information Follow the Chronicle online 010 140 2099 084 473 2574 [email protected] TheAcademy.org.za Follow us on Facebook: The Academy www.facebook.com/capejewishchronicle Subscribe on YouTube: The Academy of Jewish Thought & Learning E&OE, T’s and C’s apply. www.twitter.com/CapeChronicle

In association with the London School of Jewish Studies https://www.instagram.com/capejewishchronicle President: Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Dean: Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, www.linkedin.com/company/cape-jewish-chronicle Honorary President: Emeritus Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks www.cjc.org.za Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019 43 SPORT Gary Sandler completes fourth Herzlia’s Motocross Champion Comrades Marathon represents SA

By Jaime Uranovsky By Ilan Herrmann I sat riveted as I watched Ethan Williamson scream around the bend, balancing his bike at an acute angle, then straightening and accelerating hard on the thick soil surface, after which he approaches the hill and lifts into the air before hitting the dirt gravel and racing through to the finish line. t’s not often you see an eight- Iyear-old displaying an array of qualities such as control, stealth, mental focus, and determination with such natural finesse but Ethan Malcolm Freedman, Rael Salkinder, Craig Price and Gary Sandler does and it’s for this reason that This year’s Comrades Marathon from the start of the race all the way he is currently well at the top of the was held on 9 June. One of through to about 60kms; it’s pretty leader board of the SA Motocross 2019’s participants was Gary much uphill the whole way. So, the Championship Series. highlight for me isn’t really a highlight Sandler. This was his fourth time Ethan, a Grade 3 pupil at Herzlia in that I was looking forward to it, but explains Warren. completing the ultramarathon, Constantia Cape Town began it was the challenge of the up-run. Motocross at age five after “Herzlia have been unbelievable!” which he has been running since The last time I did the up-run I really watching the sport on television says Warren. “At assemblies Ethan 2016. struggled, and I came in very close and persistently asking his parents is presented with the medals and to the end, so I was quite nervous ary estimates that fewer than to get him a bike and get involved trophies he’s won. When he is about it but that was pretty much the Gtwenty runners from the Cape in the sport. His talent immediately forced to miss school days due to highlight: the challenge of the up-run; Town Jewish community run the emerged as he came 3rd in the race events, the school helps in to try to improve on my effort from the Comrades. He notes, “I run with at very first race he competed in. This, every way to ensure he doesn’t last time, which was about a 45-minute least three guys regularly, Jewish while racing against older kids aged fall behind and he has been given improvement. I was quite happy with guys: Craig Price, Malcolm Freedman seven and eight. a lot of positive attention and and Rael Salkinder… We trained that.’ encouragement by pupils, staff and Ethan trained hard, fine-tuning together and we For Gary, teachers.” his skill through many hours ran the Comrades running of riding and attended regular The sport is quite expensive as together… We provides both races. Dividends paid off and you ideally need two bikes in case kind of split up physical and he has already ignited the 2019 one falters and travelling expenses according to our mental benefits. Championship with multiple wins for families can be costly. Cali ability towards “It’s about and has a 15-point lead at the top however explains that it has been the end of the keeping fit and of the standing board as at the time an investment in that the sport and race but we all healthy but it’s of writing. its outings with its family trips have started together also a good as a group and we been great bonding experiences for way to energise The lead has qualified him along the family for which she is grateful trained together your mind. To with three other riders to represent all the time. So, reinvigorate South Africa at the FIM Africa Ethan has many passions. He loves there’s a big the spirit and Championship on 31 August in Soccer, Mathematics, Drumming, social element to Malcolm Freedman, Gary Sandler, Rael Choir, and Cricket, but Motocross Salkinder and Craig Price just detox — to Zimbabwe where he will compete it as well.” keep your mind against Africa’s best. He is the trumps them all at this point. His Gary began long-distance running clear… But youngest qualifier. coach says he has the makings of also, the pains and the niggles that a great rider, particularly because in 2013: “Once I overcame my first Ethan’s sterling run so far this you get from running and the injuries of his mental toughness. He has challenge of completing a marathon… season in the SA’s has been that linger even after a hard run in the an uncanny ability to rally from a the bug had bitten and I realised that if consistent and impressive. Results morning… it’s pain that I don’t see as disappointment and turn it around. I could do [the Cape Town Marathon], from the different regions: Western negative. It’s almost a reminder of the then I could do the Two Oceans. If I Cape — won two races and came Although it is a while away, Ethan’s effort you put in to get yourself in the could do Two Oceans, I could do 2nd in the third race. Port Elizabeth eventual aim is to reach the FIM best space physically and mentally to Comrades. So, it gained momentum — won both heats. Bloemfontein Junior Motocross World Champs continue on.” from that point — from ticking off 2nd in race 1 and won race 2. in 2022 where he would compete that first bucket-list item which was For those considering running the Johannesburg - 2nd overall. against the World’s best. [completing] a marathon.” Comrades, Gary says, “It’s possible Ethan is encouraged in the pursuit Ethan was recently interviewed if you put your mind to it… It sounds Today, the Comrades Marathon is of his passion by his parents and by Good Hope FM. His parents cheesy but 90kms is something you Gary’s favourite race: “It’s the ultimate siblings who travel with him to express how proud they are of his can work towards and most of it is experience for a long distance road his races. Ethans dad and mom, character and the person he is mental… You get what you deserve runner… Every year the Comrades Warren and Cali, ensure it’s a being a humble gentle and well- when you put the training in but most is different. One year is an up-run progression that is coming from rounded person. In an interview of the race is mental and anyone can and the next year it’s a down-run. So, Ethan. “We make it clear that it is with FIM Africa, Ethan described do it. I started doing park runs in 2013 this year was an up-run from Durban his choice and it is not something the two rules the family holds by and I built up from there, not expecting to Pietermaritzburg, which, in some we put any pressure on him to do. when it comes to racing: Rule 1. I’d ever do it. It’s possible if you put people’s opinion, is significantly harder We will support him in whichever Win or lose we always have FUN. your mind to it and you’ve got that goal than the down-run. Just in terms of the direction he chooses to take,” Rule 2. We win or we learn. sheer up-hills you have to navigate to motivate you.” 44 Cape Jewish Chronicle August 2019

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