JMS OFFERS MOUTH- BELIEF SYSTEMS WATERING FARE FOR 2011 / 8 WORTH MORE SWERDLOW MULTI-TASKS IN THAN FLEETING THEATRICAL WORLD /8 VISIT / 9 The SA Jewish Report has 50 000 weekly readers!

www.sajewishreport.co.za Friday, 11 February 2011 / 7 Adar 1, 5771 Volume 15 Number 5 Israel watches anxiously as

US rethinks aid for Egypt PAGE 6

An Egyptian flag flies from an army outpost on the Egyptian side of the border with Israel near WILL EGYPT- the moshav of Kadesh Barnea. Israelis hope the relative calm that has prevailed on its southern ISRAEL BORDER flank will carry over in any “regime change” in Egypt. The peace deal negotiated with Anwar Sadat in 1979 has endured turbulent times, but TRANQUILITY the border has remained quiet. However, no crystal ball can predict the final outome of the Egyptian uprising. Israel waits with PREVAIL? bated breath. (PHOTO: DINA KRAFT)

Dershowitz: The hard left SAKS: Settler Calls mount to Israel’s Ironman, FEATURE: encourages Arab despots / 7 roots in E Cape / 6 free Pollard / 3 3rd toughest / 16 Medical Matters YOUTH / 12 SPORTS / 16 LETTERS / 10 CROSSWORD & BRIDGE / 14 COMMUNITY BUZZ / 4 WHAT’S ON / 14 2 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011

PARSHA OF THE WEEK SHABBAT TIMES February 11/7 Adar 1 Published by February 12/8 Adar 1 S A Jewish Report (Pty) Ltd, PO Box 84650, Creating a better world for all of us Tetzaveh Greenside, 2034 Tel: (011) 023-8160 IT IS always fascinating to under- So, our holy day of Yom Starts Ends Fax: (086) 634-7935 stand the composition of our bril- PARSHAT Kippur, which is the day of liant Jewish calendar - the calcu- cleansing and purity must, of 18:15 19:26 Johannesburg Printed by Caxton Ltd lations of the new moon, and TETZAVEH necessity, not have any link what- 18:20 20:18 Cape Town EDITOR - Geoff Sifrin especially the way the festivals Rabbi Michael Katz soever with impurity. We don’t 18:15 19:20 Durban fall within a particular year. even want it celebrated on a day [email protected] Chabad Illovo 18:20 19:38 Bloemfontein So many principles are taken on which a conduit to impurity 17:51 19:49 Port Elizabeth into account, so many facts and was created! Sub-Editor - Paul Maree 18:15 19:38 East London features all converging on a con- Shabbos fasting, and we don’t In this week’s Torah portion - Senior Reporter - Rita Lewis clusive and very clever system of want to leave Shabbos fasting. Tetzaveh - we read of all the gar- [email protected] perfection. However, Yom Kippur can be on a ments and preparations for the particular action or realm of One of the fascinating facts Shabbos itself and the fast of Kohanim, the priests, as they life, but often there is something Sports Editor - Jack Milner within the calendar’s composi- Tisha B’Av can be on a Sunday went to work in the Holy hidden, a foundational “impuri- [email protected] tion is that Yom Kippur may not and that of Asara B’Tevet can be Tabernacle and Temples. ty” not immediately recognised, Books Editor - Gwen Podbrey be on a Sunday, a Tuesday or a on a Friday! They needed to be pure; they but lurking in the proverbial Friday. Never can be and never The Talmudic reason for Yom needed purity of body, of mind, of shadows or in the foundation. Arts Editor - Robyn Sassen will be! Because of that, our festi- Kippur not occurring on those soul and even had to be clothed in Like Yom Kippur, like the [email protected] vals fall into a certain “grid” of particular days dates back to special garments! Kohanim, like a Kingdom of days of the week upon which Creation. If we carefully study We, the Jewish people are Priests we need to guard our- Youth Editor - Alison Goldberg they can occur, and all of them what Hashem created on each day called a “Kingdom of Priests”. We selves against involvement in [email protected] can only fall out on four days of of the week, there is a particular are meant to be a nation that rep- that realm, retain our “purity” Cape Town correspondent the week, not seven! synergy between Sunday, Tuesday resents morality, purity and and with that, our role in this Why should Yom Kippur not be and Friday in that it was on those G-dly behaviour within every- world - bringing G-dliness into Moira Schneider: 021-794-4206 on a Sunday, a Tuesday or a days, and only on those days that thing that we do. the world and making it a Pretoria correspondent Friday? We often think that this the features of our world that Often it is clear that there is “Mishkan” - a place where G-d Diane Wolfson: 082-707-9471 has to do with Shabbos, for could conduct impurity were cre- something blatantly wrong and can dwell - a far better world for instance. we don’t want to go into ated! we know to stay away from that us all. MANAGER: DISTRIBUTION Britt Landsman [email protected] Sales Executives - (011) 023-8160 Like good wine, these WIZO AROUND THE WORLD Britt Landsman: 082-292-9520 NEWS IN BRIEF Manuela Bernstein: 082-951-3838 stalwarts improve with age MASSIVE FLOODING DAMAGES JEWISH INFRA- Freelance Sales Executive STRUCTURE IN MELBOURNE Marlene Bilewitz & Assoc: 083-475-0288 RITA LEWIS “Jane Levitas was born in London in the PHOTO SUPPLIED same year that WIZO was founded. She is a SYDNEY - Mass flash flooding triggered by Cyclone Classified Sales true Jewish intellectual, and as the travelling Yasi, caused severe damage to Jewish community build- [email protected] WORKING FOR the community is often a organiser for WIZO South Africa, has trav- ings in Melbourne. thankless job, yet eight members of WIZO elled the length and breadth of the country, Design and layout Floods stormed through several suburbs heavily pop- who have spent their lives working for the bringing all facets of Israel and WIZO to the ulated by Melbourne’s Jewish community of 50 000 on Frankie Matthysen organisation, are not only still there but main cities and remote parts of South Africa. the evening of February 4, prompting the closure of the Nicole Cook are active and productive – despite being “In her heyday, she was a sought after Sephardi Synagogue on Shabbat. aged 90 and over. speaker. She edited ‘News and Views’ and Website At least two Jewish schools also were flooded, with At a tea in their honour, WIZO Johan- took on the portfolio of council’s hasbarah www.sajewishreport.co.za Bialik College - one of the largest Jewish schools in the nesburg’s Zee Bergman paid tribute to all chairman. She is now chairman of Meier- country - reportedly closing for two days last week due Ilan Ossendryver the nonagenarians for their devotion and Szold. to damage. The offices of the Australian Jewish News IC-Creations loyalty calling them true “Ayeshet Chayils”. “Jenny Nowitz is 92 and for over 60 years also were partially flooded, according to Yossi Aron, the [email protected] “Sylvia Berzack, honorary life president has devoted herself to the Cyrildene branch. newspaper’s religious affairs editor. of WIZO South Africa and a life member of Her home has been the venue for many excit- Subscription enquiries “The streets were like rivers,” Aron told JTA. the World WIZO executive, has been an ing functions. One house in a low-lying area of his street was com- Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd active member for 73 years, starting as a “Esther Batzofin (92) hails from pletely flooded, he said, adding: "The water was waist Tel: 0860-13-2652 young girl with her aunt in the Hillbrow Bloemfontein. Her father was the first chair- high.” branch. man of the Port Elizabeth Zionist Society in Driving rain and wind gusts of up to 130 km per hour BOARD OF DIRECTORS “At 93 she still attends council meetings 1901, when he lived there. battered Victoria, ripping roofs from buildings, felling Stan Kaplan (Chairman) and WIZO functions and does an excellent “After moving to Johannesburg five years trees, and closing roads, schools and other premises. job canvassing for campaign and member- ago, she joined the Bramley branch where Issie Kirsh (Deputy Chairman), Marlene Some suburbs received more than 150 mm of rain in 24 ship. she is a valued member. Bethlehem, Russell Gaddin, Norman hours, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. “Beccy Flekser at 90 is still the treasurer “Lottie Nathan (90) is a founder member of The flash flooding was caused by the tail end of Yasi, Lowenthal, Bertie Lubner, for ‘Elise’ the WIZO gift shop in Fairmount the Parkview-Parkwood branch. She is now a category 5 storm that ripped through Queensland on Benjy Porter, Herby and has been since its inception many years at Waverley and has become synonymous February 3, just weeks after rampant floods deluged the Rosenberg, Howard ago. with the book sales. She has raised thousand state, claiming at least 35 lives. (JTA) Sackstein, Jason Valkin. “Stella Greenberg (96) is the oldest active of rands for WIZO and still continues to do so. member of WIZO Johannesburg. “Matla Sarkin (91) is an actress, beautician AUSCHWITZ SIGN STEALER TRANSFERRED TO SWEDEN “Until recently she worked in WIZO’s and raconteur par excellence. For over 70 KASHRUT WIZE Buys, second hand shop, but had to years she brought Jewish history, culture KRAKOW - A Swedish neo-Nazi leader who organised give it up when she stopped driving three and knowledge to WIZO through the drama the theft of the "Arbeit Macht Frei” sign from The following symbols will appear on months ago. group.” Auschwitz, was transferred to Sweden to serve his advertisements and/or advertising fea- three-year prison sentence. tures to indicate whether or not they are Anders Hogstrom was handed over to Swedish offi- kosher. Where no Kashrut mark appears cials on Monday at Krakow Airport, according to on an advert, the Jewish Report Back: Jenny reports. assumes no responsibility for the Norwich; A Polish court last December sentenced Hogstrom, who acted as a middleman between a neo-Nazi buyer Kashrut status of that establishment or Syvia Berzack; advertiser: and five Polish thieves, to 32 months in prison as part of Beccy Flekser a plea bargain. Hogstrom faced up to 10 years in prison. NK Non-Kosher K Kosher and Jane The iron sign, which measures about five metres Levitas. across and means "Work makes you free", was stolen Where no symbols appear, consult the from the former Nazi concentration camp on December Beth Din Kosher Guide or contact the Front: Stella 18, 2009 and recovered elsewhere in the country 72 advertiser. Greenberg; hours later. It was found cut into three pieces. Hogstrom, who was arrested in February 2010 in Ester Batzofin Advertisements and editorial copy from Stockholm and extradited to Poland in April, founded outside sources do not neccessarily reflect and Matla the National Socialist Front, a Swedish neo-Nazi move- the views of the editors and staff. Sarkin. ment, in 1994. (JTA) 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 3 Israel’s Embassy, SA Celebrating 25 years of freedom communal leadership: for Natan Sharansky Can this damage be repaired? OWN CORRESPONDENT ment confirming that they had no intention of arresting Livni. A SHOCKING document purport- At the meeting of January 16 ing to describe an acrimonious were the two Krengels as well as meeting between the Embassy of Segev-Steinberg and his deputy Israel and South African commu- Yaacov Finkelstein. nal leaders before the doomed Segev-Steinberg and Finkelstein Tzipi Livni visit to South Africa, were told: “We are the only ones was surreptitiously delivered to who managed to organise a visit of the Jewish Report, labeled “min- a senior Israeli figure in the last utes from the meeting.” few years. Two former ambassa- The document was pushed under dors didn’t manage to organise the door of SA Jewish Report edi- that.” tor Geoff Sifrin’s apartment at the “A certain opportunity was weekend in the dead of night, even made possible here; it will be hard though the building has a 24 hour to create the same circumstances security guard and his address is again. For the community it will be not listed in the telephone directo- hard without the support of the ry. Besides it appearing to be on an State (of Israel). If this visit doesn’t NEW YORK (JTA) -- Feb. 11 marks 25 years since Union with a promise that Natan would soon fol- Embassy letterhead, there is no happen it will create irreparable Natan Sharansky crossed the Glienicke Bridge low. It was not to be. Four years later, the Soviets indication who delivered the docu- damage to the relations between from East to West Germany and became a free accused Natan of spying for the United States and ment or who authored it. the community and the Embassy. It man. Countless stories have been told about sentenced him to 13 years in prison. It was during From the wording in the docu- will be hard to keep the community Sharansky’s defiance of the Soviets and his coura- this period that Avital undertook the worldwide ment, it appears that a lot of fence- Zionist.” geous actions during his more than nine years of campaign that led to her husband's release. mending will have to be done to get The ambassador was told that imprisonment. In the picture, Avital Sharansky addresses the relations between the embassy and “we were taught from a young age Sharansky is one of many heroic prisoners of Prime Minister`s Council at General Assembly of the communal leadership back to a that Israel will always be there for Zion. But it is through his wife, Avital, that the the Jewish Federations of North America in New semblance of normality. Some of us. This shows us that this is not world came to know him during his years of incar- Orleans on her struggle to achieve the release of the utterances quoted were dis- the case. You don’t want to tell us ceration in ways that we did not know the others. her husband Natan Sharansky, right, from the tinctly undiplomatic. minimal things that can help us Avital and Natan were married in July 1974. The Soviet gulag, Nov. 7, 2010. (Photo:The Jewish According to a particularly ugly with this visit.” next morning Avital was ordered out of the Soviet Agency for Israel). section of the document, the When the Ambassador pointed Embassy was also apparently out that it was a worldwide labour threatened with closure, as it was action, not confined to the embassy said that one of the main reasons it in South Africa, he was told: “For was here was only because of the the Israeli security (of Livni) our AROUND THE WORLD community. contacts are not good enough, they The background, in a nutshell: said they need the Embassy. Your NEWS IN BRIEF The SA Jewish Board of Deputies union has made an exception with and the SA Zionist Federation, led by (Foreign Minister Avigdor) Lieber- QUAYLE CALLS FOR JONATHAN POLLARD RELEASE brothers Zev and Avrom Krengel, man to go to London.” WASHINGTON - Dan Quayle has urged President administration. saw the painstakingly planned high- Regarding the pressure on the Barack Obama to release imprisoned spy-for- Such voices are significant profile visit to South Africa they had Ambassador and his deputy to Israel Jonathan Pollard. because sitting congressional arranged for Tzipi Livni, leader of break the strike to assist with Quayle, who was US vice president from 1989 to Republicans have resisted the Kadima Party in Israel – and also Livni’s visit, Finkelstein remarked: 1993, is the highest-ranking former official to call joining a recent call led by leader of the official opposition – “I will be cutting the branch on for the release of Pollard, the civilian US Navy ana- Representative Barney Frank Jonathan Pollard scuppered by a labour strike involv- which I sit. I support the right lyst who was sentenced to life in 1987. (Democrat Massachusetts) to ing Israeli Foreign Affairs personnel cause of the strike, to enable us to "I believe that a life sentence for the crime com- release Pollard. Democrats generally have been worldwide. represent Israel with dignity, so mitted is very extreme," Quayle wrote in his more receptive to the case for the release of It was claimed that without the that good and talented people January 31 letter, which was made public on Pollard, who reportedly is ill. assistance of Ambassador Dov would like to join and stay in the Monday. "Though his crime was very serious, I It has been 25 years since Pollard was captured Segev-Steinberg and his personnel, Ministry and by doing so to save hope you will once again look very carefully at this and jailed, and there has been a renewed push in the visit, which would have been a the Israeli Foreign Service.” pending request." recent months for his release. Frank got 38 coup for the communal leadership, One of the Krengels commented: Quayle's letter also is significant because it adds Democrats to sign on in part by suggesting that could not take place. The Krengels “It will be an irretrievable break- to the growing list of former Republican govern- Pollard's release would soften Israeli opposition put pressure on Segev-Steinberg down in the relations. It will be ment officials who have asked for Pollard's release, to peace concessions with the Palestinians. and his personnel to ignore the seen by the community as a betray- among them George Schultz, the secretary of state Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strike and assist with the arrange- al...” when Pollard was captured, and Michael Mukasey, recently formally requested Pollard's release. ments of the visit. The acrimony is obviously far the last attorney general in the George W Bush (JTA) The ambassador told them his from assuaged. In another hands were tied, that it was a “unkept” secret, an e-mail is doing worldwide strike that his embassy the rounds showing how the SAZF FORMERWHITE HOUSE ATTORNEY REQUESTS POLLARD'S RELEASE could not break, but he was pres- invited the Ambassador to a func- WASHINGTON - Another former White House offi- believe, it would be a miscarriage of justice,” surised to assist with the proposed tion, then “disinvited” him and cial has called for clemency for spy Jonathan Nussbaum wrote, according to The Jerusalem Post. visit. again “after serious considera- Pollard. In January, Obama received a letter from Israeli Segev-Steinberg also expressed tion”, invited him again. Bernard Nussbaum, White House counsel under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requesting his concern over a threat by This unseemly spat, shown in the President Bill Clinton, sent a letter to President clemency for Pollard. Also, in recent weeks, others Palestinian activist groups to have fact that such great effort was Barack Obama on February 5 saying that keeping have written separate letters to Obama requesting Livni arrested in South Africa for made to deliver such an inflamma- Pollard in prison is a "miscarriage of justice". clemency, including US Secretary of State George purported “war crimes” for what tory document anonymously to the Nussbaum opposed pardoning Pollard, a civilian Schultz; Michael Mukasey, the most recent they perceived as her role in the editor of the Jewish Report, is US Navy analyst who was convicted for spying for Republican US attorney general; and Harvard Law Gaza war’s Operation Cast Lead. doing untold damage to the com- Israel, when he served in the White House. He said School professor Charles Ogletree, director of the On this score the Krengels said munity and putting enormous in his letter that he studied Pollard's file "extensive- Charles Hamilton Houston Institute for Race and they had spoken to the National strain on the relations between the ly" and believed it was time for Obama to commute Justice at Harvard. Prosecuting Authority who had communal leadership and Israel’s his life sentence. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, a assured them they had no inten- Embassy, as representatives of the "I, too, believe that Jonathan Pollard has been likely Republican candidate for the 2012 presiden- tion of arresting Livni. The State of Israel. appropriately punished for his conduct, and that a tial nomination, during a visit to Israel last week Krengels were proved correct failure at this time to commute his sentence would called on the United States to release Pollard. when the NPA later issued a state- • See editorial on page 6 not serve the course of justice' indeed, I respectfully (JTA) 4 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011

SOCIAL SCENE chology professor emeritus in the first gymnastic team and Rita Lewis [email protected] COMMUNITY BUZZ there. also played first team rugby. LIONEL SLIER “He writes: ‘It is extremely “The famous Springbok cen- 082-444-9832, fax: 011-440-0448, unfamiliar, but we have at pres- tre, Wilf Rosenberg, spent two ent here in Canada a prime min- years at Grey High School. [email protected] ister of principles. It loses him Ronnie Franklin who was at the some votes, but he is strong and school, was the Eastern Province ROBERTSON principled, as you will see from under-19-100 yards champion. the following letter from the “The late Cecil Morris played This town is in the Breede River Prime Minister of Canada: first team cricket and rugby and Valley, 180 km north-east of “‘Dear Professor Rachman was a member of the first team Cape Town, near Worcester. It and Dr Philips. Thank you for gymnastics. He was a senior stu- was named after Dr William your correspondence regarding dent officer in the cadets and Playing Robertson, a minister of the my address to the second annual also vice-head boy, which was a Dutch Reformed Church, first in conference of the Inter-parlia- great honour for a Yiddishe boy.” poker can Clanwilliam and later in mentary Coalition for Com- be a lot of Swellendam. bating Anti-Semitism. I appreci- LONDON fun. ated receiving your words of From Marc Kopman: support. From The Zionist Record, “‘It was an honour to speak to December 2, 1949: “On the road again, this time to parliamentarians from around At the visit one of my client’s (and the globe as they met to discuss Gerald Kersh is one of Britain’s roulette table oncologist’s) wine farm situated the struggle against hatred and leading novelists. He is a propo- are Trevor at Robertson in the Western intolerance. Canada was very nent of the ”tough novel school”, Friedman, Cape. proud to host this meeting. best exemplified by “The Song of with his wife “So, at the crack of dawn on “‘Please be assured that our the flea”. He got a flea in his own December 3 last year, leaving government is committed to ear the other night, though; he Alice (MD of Krugersdorp, my wife and I standing against those who was a guest at a Jewish wedding Yad Aharon) headed out for Lanseria, bound threaten the Jewish people and in London. with their for Cape Town and on landing at to combating the spectre of anti- Asked to propose a toast to daughter Cape Town airport, we promptly Semitism as it spreads. We have Israel, ill-manneredly, Kersh Yael and picked up the hired car and a solemn duty to defend the vul- tossed a wad of notes on to a Hanni, Deena made off for Robertson, travel- nerable, to challenge the aggres- table, offering to pay the fares for and Gavi ling via Worcester. sor, to promote human rights anyone who wanted to go there. “Around an hour and a half and to defend human dignity at His speech ran thus: “It is Ress. later we cruised through home and abroad. incredible nonsense for me to Robertson, deciding to do the “‘Once again, thank you for reply to this toast. My allegiance business end first and view this sharing your thoughts regarding is to Britain, not to Israel. It is delightful wine farm - which we my speech.’” easy to support this new country Yad Aharon raises did most enjoyably. Signed: The Rt Hon Stephen from the comforts of your arm- “Around two hours later, time Harper, PC Prime Minister of chairs. But I will make an offer. I to head back to Robertson town Canada. will personally pay the fares of funds the fun way to do my usual Jewish connec- anyone of you prepared to leave tion exploration and, after a MUIZENBERG for Israel tonight.” STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY “funny money” to play with. quick call to Rabbi Moshe There were no takers. A few RITA LEWIS For many, the “funny money” Silberhaft, landed up at the Hyman Jocum continues on the minutes later Kersh was ushered was sufficient for the evening, but Robertson Tourism/Information Exhibition at the Labia: out of the front door. He told THERE IS something about the for the “big punters” the money office, who advised me that the newspapermen: “I was given the atmosphere in a casino. The air of didn’t last too long – and that’s shul building was now in use as a “Another section of the exhibi- b*ms rush merely because I anticipation, expectancy and tension where the rub came in because the dance studio and situated in tion is captioned ‘War Years at believed in Britain.” that pervades the area with each per- next hand-out of money had to be Adderley Street and that the Muizenberg’ and included a pho- • Kersh was the author of 40 son filled with the hope that “tonight paid for in “real rands”. Jewish cemetery was right down tograph of the two Greek books, novels and short stories. will be my lucky night”. The organisers of the function, at the end of White Street. princesses who found sanctuary He died in 1968 aged 57. It was the same – if not more so – fundraisers Laureen Shalpid and “Arriving at Adderley Street, in Newlands after the Nazi occu- when Yad Aharon held their Vegas Sonya Margolias, as well as Yad driving through pleasant subur- pation of their country in mid- LONDON Nights at the HOD Hall in Aharon’s MD, Alice Friedman, were bia, we found the shul, closed 1941. Johannesburg recently. of course all rubbing their hands but in 100 per cent nick and still “Both young princesses are Rachel Corrie was an American Roulette tables, crap tables, poker with glee and laughing all the way to looking every bit much like a photographed in SAWAS (SA girl, aged 23 who went to Gaza tables... all together with their expe- the bank as the money is much need- shul. I proceeded to take several Women’s Auxiliary Service) uni- for The Islamic Solidarity rienced, well-turned out croupiers, ed by their organisation to feed the photographs from every angle forms at the opening of the Movement, crouched in front of were spaced out around the hall. growing number of indigent people for the record. SAWAS Bumper fete which was an Israeli Defence Force bulldoz- Whether you were a “Rich Man” who rely on them for their daily and “Under the Hebrew inscrip- held during December 1941 and er and was killed (March 2003). or a “Poor Man”, it didn’t matter, weekly Shabbat meal. tion in white letters at the top of was known as Seaside Splash. She wanted to engage the Israeli because everyone who came was At the moment the number is the shul’s entrance, stands “In the photo display is a por- military. given several thousand rands of around 450 families. ‘5656’, translated to the secular trait of Max Sonnenberg M.P She immediately became a year 1895, making the congrega- escorting Prime Minister Jan heroine of the anti-Israel agita- tion 115 years old (just one year Smuts along the various stores. tion around the world. A play, older than Krugersdorp where I “Younger viewers at the exhi- written by an American, Simone live).” bition may recognise their Bitton, was made, called “My grandmothers in photos of the Name is Rachel Corrie”. It DAME VERA LYNN Muizenberg Jewish Womens’ became a cause célèbre among Sewing Circle and the local Bnei the ranks of the “Not in my From Peter Feldman: Bnoth Zion Association.” Name” movement. However, the act was also “ I received an e-mail from your PORT ELIZABETH dubbed “naïve” and “stupid”. reader Raphael Lacob, whom I English journalist, Chas Yad Aharon’s events organisers, Laureen put in touch with Helena Nossel Rollo Berman continues: Newkey-Burden, wrote: Shalpid and Sonia Margolias, with MC about her aunt, Dame Vera Lynn “When I went to see the play, Elana Afrika. (the Forces’ sweetheart). “Most Yiddishe boys furthered ‘My Name is Rachel Corrie’ in their studies by going to Grey London’s West End I sat in an CANADA High School which was the sec- audience littered with white ond oldest school in South Africa Englishmen and -women wear- From Professor S Rachman and and very prestigious. In the ing keffiyeh scarves, some wear- Dr H C Philips: fifties about 20 per cent of the ing Hamas badges. boys were Jewish. “I see these people and the “Johannesburg - born Prof “Many of them were above marching Hamas-wannabes as Rachman was a student and lec- average sporting types. The terror groupies: ‘We are all turer at Wits University in the gymnastic team had Leon Hezbollah now’ - these are the 1950s. He became a professor at Morris and Sammy Poland and ‘Not in my Name’ people who fall Maudsey College (London me. One of its most famous sons under French author, Andre Watching the spinning ball University) and moved on to was Leon’s brother, Cecil Gide’s definition ‘The true hyp- and keeping their fingers Vancouver where he was Morris. ocrite is the one who ceases to crossed are Nachi and Adi Lauren Swartz, Lana Meltz and Adi Kay attached to the University of “Some of the other sportsmen perceive his deception, the one Kay from Octagon Finance. place their bets at the roulette table. British Columbia. He is now psy- were Phil Abrams who competed who lies with sincerity.’” 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 5 Sad farewell to AROUND THE WORLD NEWS IN BRIEF community leader JIMMY CARTER SUED OVER BOOK ON PALESTINE NEW YORK – Five readers have knowingly misleading statements unjust enrichment and deceit. filed a class-action lawsuit against intended to promote the author's The named plaintiff, Stephen Ivan Levy former President Jimmy Carter agenda of anti-Israel propaganda Unterberg, is one of two dual US- for his book “Palestine: Peace Not and to deceive the reading public Israeli citizens living in New York DAVID SAKS capacity until his passing. Apartheid”. instead of presenting accurate and Israel pressing the suit. The During this time, he was His publisher, Simon & Schus- information as advertised,” ac- others are from New Jersey, THE JEWISH community also one of the non-execu- ter, also was named in the lawsuit cording to The Washington Post. Minnesota and California. was deprived of a devoted tive directors on the board of over the book published in 2006. The five plaintiffs are asking for Adam Rothberg, a spokesman communal leader and the JD Group, for which the The lawsuit, Unterberg et al v at least $5 million in compensa- for Simon & Schuster, called the Johannesburg law fraternity Feinsteins were the corpo- Jimmy Carter et al, was filed on tory as well as punitive and exem- lawsuit "frivolous" in a statement of one of its most distin- rate legal advisers. February 1 in US District Court plary damages for the $27 book, issued on February. 2. guished members by the pass- Levy was a stalwart cam- for the Southern District of New according to the Post. Their suit "It is a chilling attack on free ing of Ivan Levy on February 5. paigner against anti-Semitism and York. It alleges that the book con- charges Carter and Simon & speech that we intend to defend Levy, who, had been ill for quite made both his own professional tained “numerous false and Schuster with breach of contract, vigorously," he said. (JTA) some time, was 72. skills and the resources of his firm Among other important commu- freely available in this regard. It JEWISH THEMES ABOUND AMONG BOOK AWARD FINALISTS nal leadership positions held, Levy was largely through his efforts that was a national vice-chairman of the the notorious anti-Semitic forgery NEW YORK - Jewish themes Second World War and Grossman Among the five autobiography SA Jewish Board of Deputies (2001 - The Protocols of the Learned abound among National Book flashes forward to contemporary finalists are Kai Bird's "Crossing 2005); SAJBD Gauteng Council Elders of Zion was banned in South Critics Circle award finalists. Israel, where a woman whose son Mandelbaum Gate: Coming of chairman (2000 - 2003); and chair- Africa, a status which remains to Among the five fiction finalists is in the army, refuses to wait at Age Between the Arabs and man of the International this day. are Israeli author David home for bad news and instead Israelis, 1956-1978", about a child- Association of Jewish Lawyers and In its obituary notice for the gen- Grossman's "To the End of the hikes in the Galilee. hood spent as the child of a US Jurists - SA Chapter (1991 - 1998). eral press, the SA Jewish Board of Land" and "Comedy in a Minor Another finalist is Jonathan diplomat in divided Jerusalem, Levy’s extensive pro bono work Deputies described Levy as “a Key", by Hans Keilson, a German- Franzen's "Freedom", a family and "Hitch-22", in which essayist for Jewish organisations included proud, deeply committed member born Jew now living in the drama that treats, among other Christopher Hitchens discusses serving as honorary legal adviser to of our Jewish community, which to Netherlands. contemporary themes, Jews in his discovery in adulthood that MaAfrika-Tikkun, the SAJBD, the end was continually enriched by The awards will be handed out the neoconservative movement. his mother was Jewish. Operation Hunger and the Chief his formidable intellectual gifts, in New York on March 10 Israeli author Tom Segev's The National Book Critics Rabbi Cyril Harris Community professional skills and strong lead- "The two books complement biography of Nazi hunter Simon Circle, comprising 600 review- Centre. He was further the director ership qualities”. each other, as Keilson tells the Wiesenthal, "The Lives and ers, was founded in 1974 at New of the To Life Charitable Trust. JD Group`s chairman, David story of a young Dutch couple Legends", is among five biogra- York's legendary Algonquin When the SA Jewish Times was Sussman, commented: “During hiding a Jewish boy during the phy finalists. Hotel. (JTA) closed in late 1997, Levy was promi- Ivan’s distinguished career as a cor- ANTI-SEMITIC INCIDENTS IN BRITAIN REMAIN HIGH DESPITE LARGE DROP nently involved in the establishment porate lawyer, he enjoyed only the of a new national Jewish newspaper highest esteem among all his col- LONDON - Anti-Semitic incidents the country in 2010. dents of verbal abuse, anti- to replace it. This became the SA leagues and peers in the legal and in Britain fell significantly from The year 2009 had the record Semitic graffiti and hate mail Jewish Report, launched in May the corporate business fraternity.” their record high, but the number number of anti-Semitic incidents cases, 32 direct threats, and 25 following year, with Levy as the first Levy leaves his wife, Barbara, was the second most in a year in the country with 926 in large cases of mass-mailed anti-Semitic chairman of its board of directors. and four children, Grant, Gina, since records were kept, accord- part because of fallout from leaflets and e-mails, according to An attorney by profession, Levy Adam and Daniel. Rabbi Dovid ing to an annual report Israel's war with Gaza. the Jewish Chronicle. was appointed as CEO of Levy, Hazdan of the Great Park Figures released on February 3 Included in the reported inci- The Community Security Trust Feinsteins & Associates Inc, one of Synagogue, of which Levy was a by the Community Security Trust dents of 2010 were 114 assaults, 83 has been documenting anti- the city’s leading law firms, on long-standing member, officiated at showed that 639 anti-Semitic inci- incidents of damage and desecra- Semitic incidents since 1984. December 1, 1994 and served in this the funeral at West Park Cemetery. dents were reported throughout tion of Jewish property, 385 inci- (JTA) 6 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS

a leading role in organising the tiny Jewish community there and in 1841, the About Jewish Settler first-ever Jewish religious services took Jew-on-Jew place in his home, on Yom Kippur. Norden subsequently became the first roots in Eastern Cape president of the Cape Town Hebrew feuds Congregation, and as such can be CYNICAL AS Churchill’s remark that regarded as the founder of the South A FRACTIOUS environment pitting Jew history is written by the victors sounds, it African Jewish community. against Jew has developed recently in the is undoubtedly true. How true struck me BARBARIC Benjamin’s brother, Joshua Davis, South African Jewish community, triggered anew whilst revisiting recently various remained in Grahamstown, became the by several simmering disputes. These include aspects of the history of the Eastern YAWP commanding officer of the the Baal Shem Tov Shul’s argument with com- Cape, specifically those relating to the David Saks Grahamstown Yeomanry and was killed munal leaders – particularly the SAJBD - over 1820 Settlers and their escalating con- at the head of his men early in the their response to the “anti-Semitism” quarrel frontations with the indigenous Xhosa Seventh Frontier War. with ANC Councillor Christine Walters; the peoples. Also killed in that war was Lewis cancellation of Israeli politician Tzipi Livni’s At least up until the 1960s, what offi- We know now that Hintza was seized Norton, from another Jewish Settler visit because of a labour strike in the Israeli cially held sway was the notion that the under pretence of entering into negotia- family. Many years before that, the third foreign ministry and resulting acrimony Settlers were the victims of “Kafir” bar- tions and shot in cold blood while he was of the Jewish families, headed by Morris between Jewish leaders and the Israeli barism, decent, hard-working people unarmed and trying to surrender. Sloman, had been the first to lose one of embassy; petitions for and against Archbishop whose wholesome efforts to put down Perhaps inevitably, though, the pendu- its members to native assegais. He was Emeritus Desmond Tutu mounted by different roots in a harsh, alien land were under- lum has sometimes swung too far the Mark Sloman, killed while herding cattle Jewish groups, each claiming the moral high mined by the bloody-mindedness and other way. One of the current academic at the ripe old age of seven. ground; and others. duplicity of the neighbouring black pop- theories is that the Sixth Frontier War The Jewish 1820 Settler destined to None of these issues are trivial. They war- ulation. was really an elaborate Settler-Colonial win the greatest fame, or notoriety at rant focused, clear discussion. Different fac- The official account of the first major plot aimed at justifying the wholesale least, was Joshua Abraham Norton. Just tions of South African Jewry, however, have conflict between the two - the Sixth seizure of Xhosa land through deliberate- two years old when he arrived in South been turning on each other with such rancour Frontier War of 1834 - 1836 - typified the ly exaggerating the extent and impact of Africa, he left for California to become a that it makes one cringe. Dignity seems to official Eurocentric interpretation of the their incursion. “Forty-Niner” in the 1849 gold rush have gone by the board among some of the day. Whites were depicted as innocent Conspiracy theories are usually associ- there, went bankrupt and then pro- callers and writers to radio stations, websites victims of an unprovoked mass attack by ated with those on the right, but from claimed himself to be Emperor Norton I and newspapers – ours included. bloodthirsty primitives, “The Irruption what I’ve seen, leftists are just as prone to of the United States of America (later As a newspaper presenting an open forum of the Kafir Hordes” as a contemporary believing in them. taking Mexico into his “protectorate”). for diverse opinion, the Jewish Report faces history was entitled. When first learning about all of this as I don’t know if by then he had gone the dilemma of potentially being converted In one of the war’s most notorious a student in Grahamstown, heart of the completely meshuggah and actually into a battlefield for these ad hominem episodes, the Gcaleka Chief Hintza was old Settler country, I assumed as a matter believed this, or whether it was intended attacks, or drawing a clear red line regarding made a prisoner and then shot and killed of course that Jews had nothing to do as a benign scam but at any rate, his fel- what material will be published. while trying to escape. According to the with any of this since no Jews had as yet low Americans bought into the joke and Many letters received are published; others Euro-friendly versions, the brave Settler found their way to this part of the world. supported him to the end of his life. aren’t because of their ugly tone (or some- lad George Southey was forced to shoot I was wrong, of course. The original Writes Hazel Dakers (a descendant of times we edit out the harsher comments before him after he attempted to throw an party of 1820 Settlers included three Benjamin Norden), the City of San publishing). It is a search for the golden mean assegai at him. Jewish families and several individuals Francisco “even provided him with a - allowing robust, even heated debate and giv- The old texts I consulted, dating to as well, numbering perhaps 20 souls in new Emperor’s uniform with plumed ing people a medium for their own voice, yet around the 1940s, failed to record that the all. It may have been an exceedingly hat each year, railways provided free keeping a sense of decorum and dignity. chief’s ears were afterwards cut off as small proportion of the 4 000 men and travel and restaurants entertained him It would be wrong to sanitise the letters or souvenirs. women who came ashore at Algoa Bay, as befitted one of his ‘status’”. other pages. Stifling healthy argumentation or Long before the eventual transition to but that small group of men, women and I regret very much not finding all this virulent views would be to insult the energetic democratic rule, the old white suprema- children made no less an impact, and out while I was still a student in minds of readers. Yet an unbridled free-for-all cist myths had been undermined by a indeed probably more, on the unfolding Grahamstown. During that time, and is unacceptable. It could only lead to anarchy. new Afro-centric narrative that detailed Settler saga than their Christian neigh- much as I loved the town and the In many respects South African Jewry is a at last what the Xhosa grievances had bours. Eastern Cape in general, I always felt model community imbued with the best of been, revealed how greatly their depreda- Benjamin Norden was the most promi- that, as a Jew, I didn’t really belong. It Yiddishkeit. But there is also unfortunately an tions had been exaggerated to justify nent of the Jewish Settlers, setting him- would have helped a great deal to have ugly side to it, brought out by the passions of their wholesale dispossession and laying self up as a successful trader first in known that Jews, too, had roots in the disputes such as these, where both sides bare the apparently bottomless venality Grahamstown and later in (then) Natal. area going back almost to the beginning believe they have right on their side - or are of the White invaders. After relocating to Cape Town, he took of European settlement. driven by their egos, perhaps - and feel no compunction in attacking others in a hurtful, devastatingly personal way, sometimes ques- tioning their very “Jewishness” or even call- ing them “Nazis”. US rethinking $1,3 billion annual aid to Egypt While attempting to allow a meeting-ground for all viewpoints, the primary concern is the well-being of the South African Jewish com- munity. Therefore the animosity and intoler- ance some members are showing each other is cause for tremendous unease. The story in this issue about the harsh exchange between heads of the SAJBD and SAZF and the Israeli ambassador and deputy ambassador, is a case in point. Or accusations flung in all directions by communal leaders and the leadership of the Baal Shem Tov Shul. Perhaps it has reached the point where a pro- fessional mediator should be called in. The instinct to argue and question are qual- ities at the core of Jewish genius and original- ity. We do not ever march in lock-step. But the principles of derech eretz are also fundamen- tal, indeed intrinsic and necessary, if we are to survive as a thriving community. It is all very well to go for the jugular today, but tomorrow we have to work together. Words have meaning and do in fact hurt; they can’t merely be retracted without leaving ugly scars. The old story is still relevant about the Jew marooned on a desert island who, when he was finally located, showed his rescuers that he had built two shuls instead of one, so he could Protesters pray in front of a tank in Cairo's Tahrir (Liberation) Square, on January 30. (PHOTOGRAPH: IMAN MOSAAD) point to one of them and say: “That is the shul RON KAMPEAS to be quietly backtracking as long as continuing such assistance sustains the I refuse to go to”. WASHINGTON Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s peace treaty or bolsters its detractors, In a more positive vein, an American Jewish regime transitions toward greater demo- chief among them Egypt’s Muslim poet once declared that the Jews are definitely IN THE wake of massive unrest that cratic freedoms. Brotherhood. the eternal people, because there is not could unseat Egypt’s autocratic It is a debate pro-Israel groups will be The assistance to Egypt, along with enough time in the universe to finish their leader, the question emerging is watching closely. years of training by and alongside US arguments. whether sustaining aid to the current Assistance to Egypt is rooted in the forces, has created a military loyal to US The appeal is not for South African Jewry to regime would advance democracy or 1979 Israel-Egypt peace deal and has interests. For US forces, Egypt waives become a “Pollyanna” community – or one on squelch it. become a cornerstone of preserving the the restrictions on travelling the Suez Prozac. But playing the ball more and the man The Obama administration, speaking quiet along Israel’s southern flank. The Canal imposed on other nations. less, is definitely likely to lead to a better out- after the outbreak of the protests, initial- question Israel and its allies in Washing- Without Suez access, the US might other- come. ly said it would "review assistance" to ton will be considering as the Egyptians wise have to double its naval presence Egypt. But now the White House seems shape a new government, is whether around Africa. 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 7 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS How the hard left, by focusing only on Israel, encouraged Arab despotism

PROF ALAN M way to compliment both It is this skewed view of mod- DERSHOWITZ regimes. ern history that runs rampant Egypt was praised for through the hard left and that NOW THE hard left is steps it has “taken in gives exculpatory immunity to finally talking about tor- recent years as regard to Arab and Muslim tyrants. ture and other undemoc- human rights...” Tunisia There is only one acceptable ratic abuses in Egypt and was lauded for construct- standard of international human Jordan, as well as the des- ing “a legal and constitu- rights: The worst must come first. potism of virtually all tional framework for the Under that universal standard, Arab regimes. promotion and protection any person or organisation claim- Do you recall any campus of human rights”. ing the mantle of human rights protests against Egypt or (Hosni) Israel, on the other hand, was must prioritise its resources. Mubarak? Do you recall any calls repeatedly condemned for violat- It must list human rights viola- for divestment and boycotts against ing the human rights not only of tors in order of the severity of the Arab dictators? No, because there Palestinians, but of its own citi- abuses and the ability of its citi- weren’t any. The hard left was too zens as well. zens to complain about those busy condemning the Middle East’s Nor do I recall Bishop (Emeri- abuses. It must then go after the only democracy, Israel. tus Desmond) Tutu urging the worst offenders first and fore- Radical leftists and campus Cape Town Opera to boycott most, leaving right-left politics demonstrators, by giving a pass to Egypt, Tunisia or Jordan as he out of the mix. the worst forms of tyranny, urged them to boycott Israel. I do This standard must be applied by encouraged their perpetuation. recall (former President) Jimmy individuals, such as Bishop Tutu, Now, finally, they are jumping on Carter, who has falsely accused by organisations, such as the United the bandwagon of condemnation, Israel of apartheid, embracing Nations, by the media and by every- though still not with the fury that some of the Arab world’s worst one who loves human rights. Until they reserve for the one nation in tyrants and murderers. Many that standard is universally applied, the Middle East that has complete who claim the mantle of human despotism will continue, interrupt- free speech, gender equality, gay rights, ignore or even embrace ed only occasionally by revolutions rights, an open and critical press, the worst human rights violators such as those taking place in an independent judiciary and fair and direct their wrath only Tunisia and Egypt. and open elections. against the Jewish nation. The irony, of course, is that in The double standard is alive and The anti-American and anti- the most repressive regimes, such well on the hard left, and its vic- Israel hard left is a topsy-turvy as Iran, revolution is well-nigh tims include the citizens of Arab world where the worst are impossible. Revolution is far more regimes who suffer under the heel declared the best and the best are likely to occur in moderately of authoritarian dictators. Even condemned as the worst. This despotic regimes, such as Tunisia more important, they include vic- topsy-turvy view has become a and Egypt, where at least some tims of genocides, such as those staple of higher education, par- basic liberties were preserved. perpetrated in Rwanda, Darfur ticularly among Middle East It is the citizens of the most and Cambodia - victims who did study programmes in many col- despotic regimes who need the most not prick the consciences of the leges and universities. help from human rights activists. hard left because the perpetrators Among many on the hard left, But don’t count on it because too were Arabs or Communists, where the only human rights issue many so-called “human rights” rather than Americans or Israelis. of concern seems to be Israel’s leaders and organisations misuse The same must be said for the treatment of the Palestinians, the the concept of “human rights” to United Nations, which rewarded views of convicted terrorist Mar- serve narrow political, diplomatic Arab despots by according them wan Barghouti are preached as or ideological agendas. places of honour on human rights gospel. This is what Barghouti, Unless we restore human rights bodies that devoted all of their who is serving a life sentence for to its proper role as a neutral and energies to demonising Israel. In planning terror attacks against universal standard of human con- a recent op-ed, Amnon Ruben- civilians, but who remains among duct, the kind of tyranny and des- stein, the conscience of Israel, the most popular Palestinian lead- potism that stimulated the cur- has pointed out that the UN ers, recently said about Israel: rent protests will continue. Human Rights Commission, to “The worst and most abominable which both Egypt and Tunisia enemy known to humanity and • Prof Dershowitz is professor of were elected, has gone out of its modern history.” law at Harvard University. AROUND THE WORLD NEWS IN BRIEF U.S. WON'T INTERFERE IN EGYPTIAN TRANSITION, WHITE HOUSE OFFICIAL SAYS WASHINGTON - - A senior White House official told free and fair elections. But that process must begin Jewish leaders that the United States did not deal now." with the Muslim Brotherhood but would not inter- Solow asked if the White House included the fere in the Egyptian transition process. Muslim Brotherhood among "opposition voices and Dan Shapiro, the senior National Security parties." Council official dealing with Israel and its neigh- "That's something that will be determined by the bours, briefed Jewish leaders on February 2 as Egyptian people," Shapiro responded. "The United forces loyal to President Hosni Mubarak unleashed States will not be an arbiter." violence against protesters seeking to unseat his 30- He added that it is US policy not to deal with the year autocracy. Muslim Brotherhood, a group that rejects Israel's Alan Solow, chairman of the Conference of existence and maintains relations with groups such Presidents of Major American Jewish as Hamas, designated by the United States as terror- Organisations, asked Shapiro to elaborate on com- ist. ments earlier in the day by White House spokesman Shapiro condemned the violence that erupted last Robert Gibbs, who had said that "meaningful transi- week Wednesday and said that the Obama adminis- tion must include opposition voices and parties tration had reassured Israeli leaders that its com- being involved in this process as we move toward mitment to Israel was "rock solid". (JTA) BUSH CANCELS KEREN HAYESOD APPEARANCE IN GENEVA WASHINGTON - Former President George W Bush call for Bush's arrest as a war criminal were not a cancelled a planned appearance at a Keren Hayesod factor; Switzerland had promised him immunity. fundraiser in Geneva because of planned protests "We didn't want to put people and property in Bush was to be the featured speaker at a February Geneva at risk," Robert Equey, the group's lawyer, 12 dinner for the group, the daily Le Tribune de told Le Tribune de Geneve. Geneve reported on February 5. Bush reportedly charges $150 000 to speak. Past Keren Hayesod, also known as the United Israel Keren Hayesod Geneva speakers have included Bill Appeal, said reports that some groups planned to Clinton, Al Gore and Rudolph Giuliani. (JTA) 8 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011 ARTS MATTERS TAPESTRY COMPILED BY ROBYN SASSEN ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE Call 084-319-7844 or [email protected] at least one week prior to publication JMS offers mouth-

AVA Gallery, Cape Town: “The Space Between”, by watering fare for 2011 Dale Washkansky, until February 18, (021) 424-7436. PAUL BOEKKOOI Apres un rêve (Fauré), Elegy: 24 Maraisburg (Paul Hanmer), ‘Cello Heritage Theatre, Durban: THE JOHANNESBURG Musical Sonata (Poulenc), Five Melodies, Grant Bell and Barry Society, now in its 109th year, is Opus 35 (Prokofiev) and ‘Cello Thomson in “Neil Diamond: again presenting 10 concerts on Sonata (Shostakovich). The Jazz Singer” until Saturday evenings or Sunday after- Saturday March 5 (20:00) – ’Cellist Georgi Anichenko, one of the soloists in the season’s first con- February 27, (031) 765-4197. noons with world-class musicians Natalia Lavrova, piano. cert. (PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY WWW.KZNPO.CO.ZA) gracing the stage of the Linder Moscow-born Ms Lavrova is a Emperor’s, Kempton Park: Auditorium, St Andrews Road in graduate of both the Moscow Kissingen Summer Festival. His sis- Competition, and Preda, her long “Combat” by Nataniël opens Parktown, Johannesburg. Conservatory and the Juilliard ter, Maria Baranova, is his duo part- time duo partner, have built a career February 17, (011) 928-1000. In these chamber music concerts, School of Music. She is also the piano ner of choice. that takes them around the globe. ranging from solo performers to duo partner of Vassily Primakov Sunday June 12 (17:00) – Saturday September 10 (20:00) – Everard Read Gallery, quintets, listeners can be assured who gave an engrossing recital for Odeion String Quartet and Calefax Reed Quintet. Rosebank, Johannesburg: that the various composers’ souls the JMS in 2010. Her programme is Green-Harrold Piano Duo. Five Dutch gents plus five reeds – “Earth and Ink”, new work and their most intimate and direct made up of works by Clementi, The return of the Odeion String oboe, bassoon, clarinet, bass clarinet by Thea Soggot, until March forms of communication will be Shostakovich, Liszt and Prokofiev. Quartet is welcomed. They’ll per- and saxophone – will present exqui- 9, (011)788-4805. revealed, apart from certain pianists Saturday April 2 (20:00) – form piano quintets with Australian site sounds and a spontaneous who will also spotlight the virtuoso Ching-Yun Hu, piano. pianists Coady Green and Leigh approach... guaranteed. Art Gallery, Wembley, aspects of their repertoire. Three of This Taiwanese pianist and win- Harrold who will also feature as a Sunday October 16 (17:00) – Cape Town: “To Skip the the 10 concerts will be piano recitals. ner of many prestigious internation- duo in this annual Nabarro Alessandro Taverna, piano. Last Step”, an exhibition by The 2011 season will commence al prizes, has already performed in Chamber Concert. One of the foremost Italian Beth Armstrong, in honour already next week and closes on famous concert halls around the Saturday July 30 (20:00) – Trio pianists of our day, Teverna partici- of the late Mark Hipper, until November 12 with the annual Percy world, including Carnegie Hall and Fibonacchi. pates in European and Canadian fes- February 23, (021) 424-5150. Baneshik Memorial Concert. Here Kennedy Centre in the USA, Am- This Canadian trio – piano, violin tivals and concertises throughout follows more detail on each individ- sterdam’s Concertgebouw and the and ‘cello – has risen to internation- Europe and America. Linder Auditorium, ual concert: Salle Cortot in Paris. al prominence in the last half- Saturday November 12 (20:00) – Parktown: February 16, 17, Saturday February 19 (20:00) – Saturday May 14 (20:00) – decade and are currently the ensem- Peter Bruns, ‘cello and Annagret JPO performs works by Georgi Anichenko, ‘cello and Andrey Baranov, violin and ble-in-residence at the University of Kuttner, piano. Mozart, Haydn and Anastasya Terenkova, piano. Maria Baranova, piano. Quebec. This German husband and wife Beethoven. Soloist: Georgi Anichenko, who won the gold Winner of important international Saturday August 20 (20:00) – duo will close the year with a stimu- Anichenko (‘cello), medal in the ‘cello section of last competitions, Baranov, who plays a Duo Salzburg: Yvonne Timoainu, lating programme and superlative Conductor: Emil Tabakov, year’s Unisa International String Guarneri violin, is a frequent guest ‘cello and Alexander Preda, playing, as Bruns already demon- (011) 789-2733. Anichenko Competition, has been performing at festivals – among them the piano. stated during previous visits. opens 2011 for the JMS with with Terenkova since 2004. Their Salzburg Summer Academy, the Timoianu, a former Gold • For JMS membership enquiries, works by Faure, Poulenc, programme: Elégie, Sicilienne and Lausanne Academy and the Bad Medallist at a Unisa String phone (011) 728 5492 or 083-228-2917. Hanmer and Shostakovich on February 19, (011) 728-5492. ‘Multi-tasking’ Swerdlow is up to everything theatrically! Market, Newtown: In the Barney Simon, James STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH BY Swerdlow and Hopkins have been soring a large-scale theatre for Toerien’s theatres, open- Ngcobo’s “Sunjata”, ends CHRISTINA KENNEDY working together for nigh on 25 production, “at a time when ing in Cape Town in March, March 6. In the Laager, years - and even acted together as big corporations are divesting before moving to Johan- Fugard’s “Sizwe Banzi is ALAN SWERDLOW (pictured) is liv- members of PACT many years ago. themselves of arts patronage. nesburg from April 12. Dead”, directed by Monageng ing proof that men can, actually, Muses Swerdlow: “We work well It’s a positive step toward “I had such fun doing Motshabi, ends February 20, multitask! One of South Africa’s together and I think I understand stimulating the industry and “Boeing Boeing” - and so did (011) 832-1641. most highly regarded theatre practi- his strengths as an actor.” creating work.” the cast and audiences - that tioners, he currently has several pro- Like “Morrie”, “Mass Appeal” (on Director/choreographer we wanted to do another one Montecasino, Fourways: In ductions on the boil - but rest in Johannesburg until March 27) Vicky Friedman has assem- that hadn’t been performed the Pieter Toerien, assured he won’t skimp on quality. features a mentor/protégé element bled a top-drawer team, sign- in South Africa before,” he “Fascinating Aïda”, until You know what they say: If you – only this time, the setting is the ing up the likes of Fiona says. In Robin Hawdon’s February 13; in the Studio, want to get something done, give it to Catholic Church where a set-in-his- Ramsay, Mark Richardson, Amor “Perfect Wedding”, a hungover “Mass Appeal” directed by a busy person. ways priest learns lessons from a Vittone, Samantha Peo and Shaun V groom-to-be wakes up on his wedding Alan Swerdlow, until March Swerdlow recently wrapped up a trailblazing young seminarian with to star. Swerdlow has written the day with a strange naked woman 27, (011) 511-1818. In Teatro, short return season of Mitch radical ideas. Several years ago, script, members of pop-rock act beside him in bed. This bedroom “Riverdance” until February Albom’s “Tuesdays With Morrie” at Toerien staged “Mass Appeal” with Cassette have penned the music, farce will reunite Alan Committie 20, (011) 510-7472. Daphne Kuhn’s Old Mutual Theatre Rex Garner and Eckhard Rabie, and Bryan Schimmel has done the orches- (also up for a Naledi for best comedy on the Square, and Graham Hopkins in the current, updated production tration and Denis Hutchinson is actor) and Robert Fridjhon, who Old Mutual Theatre on the has just been nominated for a Naledi Hopkins plays Father Tim Farley, responsible for the lighting. made a hilarious pairing in “Boeing Square, Sandton: “Casual Award for his role as the sage profes- with Clyde Berning as his rebellious “It’s set in a parallel universe, Boeing” and who Swerdlow reckons Sax” with Barbara-Anne sor. Not one to ease into a new year charge. where gold has been removed from are “a new Rex (Garner) and Gordon Puren until February 19. The gradually, Swerdlow has launched Another project Swerdlow is busy circulation to support a new digital (Mulholland) in the making”. Friday concerts feature straight into directing Bill C Davis’s with is “Streets of Gold”, at Gold currency - the screenback,” explains Despite having to bounce from Malané Hofmeyr-Burger comedy-drama “Mass Appeal” at the Reef City’s Lyric Theatre, from Swerdlow. “But people want their small, intimate play to lavish musical (flute), Andrea Erasmus Studio at Pieter Toerien’s March 25 to April 3. This home- gold back, and the Gold Liberation with more dexterity than the door- (viola) and Ventura Montecasino Theatre - starring, once grown original musical has an Front arises.” slamming, bed-hopping players in Rosenthal (harp) on February again, the venerable Graham interesting genesis: it was commis- Finally - although there are even the farces he does so well, Swerdlow 11; Hofmeyr-Burger, Miro Hopkins. Both plays will also be sioned by AngloGold Ashanti. more projects percolating as we is a master at keeping his wits about Chakaryan (violin), Susan touring to the Theatre on the Bay in Swerdlow says it’s encouraging that speak - Swerdlow will also be direct- him. Catch his name in lights soon - Mouton (‘cello) and Lady Camps Bay. a South African company is spon- ing a farce called “Perfect Wedding” at a theatre near you! Hester Martin (piano) on February 18, (011) 883-8606. During a remarkable relationship with Logue, the nation. FELDMAN he was given a voice with which to lead the His stammer became a massive challenge to Sandton Convention nation into war. overcome later when the realisation set in that Centre: Chabad’s Miracle ON FILM The beauty about this film is that it’s not his older brother, Edward VIII (Guy Pearce), Drive features world- Peter Feldman merely a superb period-piece, but it’s also a was preparing to give up the throne rather than renowned sand animation heartfelt study of courage, duty and friendship break off his relationship with a divorced artist from Israel, Ilana with warmly funny moments and some of the woman, and he, Bertie, would be king. Yahav, with “Sand Fantasy”, PICK OF THE WEEK best dialogue I’ve heard in ages. George took his kingly duties deeply serious- a demonstration of her Not only has Hooper created a superior his- ly. He realised he needed a voice to rule in the unique technique, on The King’s Speech torical document, but the emotions evoked age of radio and, therefore, sought help for his February 16. Call Sharon, here are of a powerfully personal nature, as speech impediment. (011) 440-6600. Cast: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena well. There are moments in Firth’s interpretation Bonham Carter Colin Firth is brilliant as the king who was that will linger long, one scene where he feels Wits, Braamfontein: O- Director: Tom Hooper thrust into a role he didn’t want, and there’s an the weight of kingship on his shoulders and col- week, February 14-18, equally impressive Geoffrey Rush as Logue. The lapses in tears. It’s intimate and revealing and is includes “Boys from the “The King’s Speech” is one of the few films screenplay, which contains two of the best-writ- shaped by the actor with a mixture of delicacy Ashes” based on Israel around today that one cannot praise enough - a ten roles I’ve seen in ages, delivers an engross- and firmness. Gurwicz’s Holocaust memo- truly exceptional production that will leave you ing human drama without sacrificing historical Geoffrey Rush crafts the Lionel Logue charac- ries and directed by quite speechless at the end. accuracy. ter as a total opposite, from his scruffy Harley Courtneigh Cloud (Theatre); It has already garnered a host of Oscar nomi- When we meet Bertie, as he was known to his Street office, to his unusual teaching methods. “Ask Walter”, directed by nations, including one for best actor. family, he has been asked by his father, King But he was a caring and gifted man. Aimee Goldsmith Tom Hooper’s film is based on a true, but lit- George V, to deliver a speech at the closing of The supporting cast, too, excel; Helena (Amphitheatre), and “My tle known story of how England’s King George the Empire Exhibition in 1925. Bonham Carter as George’s supportive wife, Uncle Oswald”, directed by VI overcame his stammer with the help of a That’s when we see the agony on his face and Elizabeth, Michael Gambon as his brusque Lara Lipschitz (Nunnery), maverick Australian speech therapist, Lionel the awkwardness he feels as he has to read the father, George V, and Guy Pearce as the Duke of (011) 717-1380. Logue. speech, which is also being broadcast across Windsor. It’s a winner in every respect. 11 - 18MMedical February 2011 edical MMattersatterSA JEWISHs REPORT I

Compiled by Marlene Bilewitz. Contact (011) 023-8160, Cell 083-475-0288 or e-mail: [email protected] Medicine in a host of alternative forms MARLENE AND BARRY in Europe since the 1850s. the equivalent to an MD. Outside of the United BILEWITZ Non-standard treatments often originate as States, osteopathy has been considered a form traditional healing systems from various regions of complementary medicine, emphasising a ho- IN ORDER for us to live happy productive lives, of the globe, for instance there are records of listic approach. we need to be healthy. In this supplement we acupuncture - the practice of inserting thin nee- Hatha Yoga as predominantly practised in the wish to remind you of the different options avail- dles into specifi c body points to improve health, West, consists mostly of physical and breath- able to us to encourage, maintain or cure the well-being and the reduction of pain - being ing exercises. It is also recognised as a stress- various ailments which plague us. practised in China since before 200 BCE. reducing practice. Pranayama, the breathing Complementary and alternative medicine Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medi- exercises of Hatha Yoga, is practised to de- (CAM) is the term for medical products and cine that uses distilled plant materials - essen- velop mental, physical and spiritual strength. practices that are not part of standard care. tial oils - and other aromatic compounds for the Though the beginner’s Pranayama is relatively Standard care is what medical doctors, doctors purpose of altering a person’s mood, improving harmless, safely progressing to more advanced of osteopathy and allied health professionals, memory and health, among others. Tea tree for stages requires the guidance of a knowledge- such as registered nurses and physical thera- example has anti-bacterial effects. able teacher. pists, practice. Chiropractic, the third largest health profes- Hydrotherapy or hydropathy is the generic Alternative medicine means treatments that sion behind medicine and dentistry, is a health- term for water therapies. It uses a whirlpool you use instead of standard ones. Complemen- care discipline and profession that emphasises bath, hot Roman bath, hot tub, jacuzzi, cold tary medicine means nonstandard treatments diagnosis, treatment and prevention of me- plunge and mineral bath and showers. that you use along with standard ones. Exam- chanical disorders of the musculoskeletal sys- These treatments use physical water prop- ples of CAM therapies are acupuncture, chiro- tem, especially the spine. erties, such as temperature and pressure, for practic and herbal medicines. (Wikipedia). Treatment also includes exercises and health therapeutic purposes, to stimulate blood cir- Types of therapy regarded as standard medi- and lifestyle counselling. Chiropractors in South culation and treat the symptoms of certain dis- cine in certain parts of the world have reduced - Africa are not licenced to write medical pre- eases. or no - formal acceptance in others, for instance scriptions or perform surgery. The therapeutic benefi ts of using water as a Shiatsu is regarded as main stream medicine in Osteopathy or osteopathic medicine is very means of applying heat and cold to the body, Japan and alternative treatment in the US and similar to chiropractic in that it emphasises the have long been recognised as has its comple- Europe. role of the musculoskeletal system in health and mentary treatment of rheumatic diseases. It Ozone therapy has only recently been un- disease. also continues to be widely used for burn treat- banned in certain states of the US, but has In the United States a trained Doctor of Os- ment. Ein Gedi Waterfall. been a valid complementary topical treatment teopathic Medicine, is legally and professionally Continued on page IV Yoga for health and well-being CONTRARY TO popular belief, the practice of This relaxation extends to the emotional and treated successfully with yoga. The science of yoga does not require the student to be fl exible, mental energies of our personality. The breath- yoga is a personal and inner exploration of self- nor does it require a religious belief. Anyone ing techniques of yoga release deep-seated awareness. You can feel good in the body and can practice yoga especially if it is taught as it emotional tensions and prepare the mind for a mind by the regular practice of yoga postures, should be by an authentic professional such as meditative experience. breathing and deep relaxation techniques. Swami Yogasagar who teaches an integrated Yoga Nidra is a deep relaxation technique Swami Yogasagar spoke at the Limmud class in progressive levels of practice. for the complete personality of body and mind. Conference in 2009 on Chakras, and was very The defi nition of Asana is a calm and re- Twenty minutes of Yoga Nidra is equivalent to well received. laxed poses where you are aware of the re- four hours’ sleep. The Satyam Yoga School offers general laxation. Yoga stretching and postures should The techniques of yoga can be applied as a classes in yoga and private remedial yoga ses- be relaxed and enjoyable. The stretching and remedial therapy for the safe management and sions suitable for students who may require a holding of the body in a calm and relaxed way healing of many common health disorders. All personalised class. Enquiries can be directed allows all of the systems and functions of the stress-related ailments and complex emotion- to Swami Yogasagar by tel 081-360-0679 or body to relax on a very deep level. al/physiological disorders such ADHD can be e-mailing [email protected] II SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011 MEDICAL MATTERS Premier Cosmetics – from Restore and revitalise with Dead Sea to your fingertips Israel’s natural remedies The black mud, sold worldwide as a very effec- PREMIER SOUTH AFRICA’S CEO Mason Premier Dead Sea Cosmetics, vary from tive cosmetic treatment, is available at the Dead Schneider is the retailer, wholesaler, and distrib- natural Dead Sea face products to full-body Sea naturally and directly from the source. The utor in South Africa. Mason not only sold Pre- products, hair shampoos, body butters and salt mud absorbs toxins, invigorates circulation, makes mier cosmetics abroad, he has also spent time scrubs from head to toe. you feel wonderful and strengthens your hair. with Premier Israel, and has attended all their Each product offers 26 minerals that are only The spa itself has massage facilities, a safe bath- training programmes. He trav- found in the Dead Sea. The ing beach, fresh water pool (during the season), a els around South Africa spend- extracts are prepared with bio- picnic area and restaurant. ing time at each store, as well organic, 100 per cent natural Another health resort with hot springs is Hamat as searching for new locations ingredients. Gader in northern Israel near the Sea of Galilee. It for Premier. The entire range is affordable is one of Israel’s prettiest and most popular tourist Premier Dead Sea Cosmet- for people of all stripes and our BARRY BILEWITZ attractions. There are naturally fl owing hot mineral ics uses the most advanced highly-trained professionals will springs and a range of other facilities, including purifi cation processes in the take the time to advise custom- DAK TRAVEL will take you to the Dead Sea, the treatments and massages, a water park, restau- cosmetic science world, Pre- ers - within the price range they lowest spot on earth, where nature has created rants, and a crocodile farm with other animal ex- mier exclusively captures the can afford - which product or thermo-mineral springs with healing properties hibits. unique benefi ts of the Dead Mason Schneider, CEO of packages would be most suit- found nowhere else. This is where you will fi nd the Bathers enjoy the benefi ts of fi ve hot springs Sea, the world’s largest spa, Premier Cosmetics. able for them. Ein Gedi hot springs. ranging in temperature from 28oC to 52oC. Ha- and creates the fi nest skin-care Mason knows that with his The temperature of the water in this spa is a o bossem Spring, the most popular of the baths, in the world –from the Dead Sea to your fi nger- natural skill, the support of the Jewish com- constant 38 C. The high concentration of salts in has a constant temperature of 42oC and contains tips. All Premier products originate at the Dead munity and the right product, he will make the the water, 10 times greater than anywhere else, sulphur and other minerals with therapeutic quali- Sea and are manufactured in Israel. South African venture a resounding success. creates the Dead Sea’s famous fl oating effect, ties that include enhancing the metabolism, re- Premier Dead Sea Cosmetics is operating Not only is his staff complement predominantly providing a sense of weightlessness and soothing newing cells, relieving aching joints and disorders globally and has distribution centres through- Jewish, they put the focus in their interactions warmth. of the urinal and digestive systems. out Israel, Jordan, the United States, England, with people on changing mindsets and teach- The Ein Gedi Spa has the highest percentage The water is constantly and naturally changing Ireland, Scotland, Wales and over 18 countries ing people that Israel is a place of peace and of bromine in the world, both in the air and in the wa- with no recycling necessary. The central baths are throughout Europe. Our products are also be- huge growth potential. ter, which reduces blood pressure and relaxes the equipped with Jacuzzi beds and seats, water can- ing used in Canada and South America and You can visit the stores in Eastgate, Rose- nervous system. non for pain relief, a pampering whirlpool, a huge now in South Africa. bank, Bedfordview, The Glen, in Johannesburg; Due to the low altitude, there is a high percent- waterfall and intimate wooden cabins for treat- With this international product comes experi- Gateway and Pavilion in KwaZulu-Natal; the V age of oxygen which opens the respiratory sys- ments and massages. ence you can count on from setups to success- & A Waterfront, Tygervalley, Canal Walk, Caven- tem and makes physical exertion easier. The Ein • If you want to visit any of the above, or any ful sales. There is continuous research on the dish Square and Sea Point in Cape Town. For Gedi hot springs are rich in sulphur, magnesium, other “health-spot” of the world, Dak Travel will products for product development as well as more information go to www.premierdeadsea. calcium, sodium and potassium. These penetrate organise your trip for you. Contact them on tel: diversifying the product range. com or call 0861 AGELESS. and detoxify the blood stream, leaving your body cleansed, relieved of pain, revitalised and calm. (011) 440-5980. 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT III MEDICAL MATTERS DL Link is there to support the family and care-givers SERIOUS ILLNESS impacts the entire family. Yocheved Bacher and Jackie Altschuler, have The logo, designed by Tsivia Abraham, depicts a circle of light with a key-hole The DL Link is there to support the patient, already enlisted a team of volunteers to assist opening in its centre – representing a way through. Wing–like hands representing family and care-givers during this traumatic pe- with daily needs. Au pairs, for lifts or home- the love, care and support of others. The logo is dominated by the healing colour riod. Survivors of serious illness can provide a work, ”big brothers or sisters” to mentor or en- of blue and right hands linked to form a circle of hope and strength. The vine crucial link to the patient’s future by giving them tertain children, drivers for lifts to hospitals or hope and strength during their treatment and for shopping. represents connection. recovery. DL Link will provide that link. Donations are welcome to sponsor fun days While suffering a serious illness, a young for kids, for the purchase of toys or games, woman named Devorah Leah Levy conceived furniture, beauty treatments, drivers’ salaries, of a nurturing space where patients and their family getaways and the general running costs families could fi nd respite from the trauma that of the centre. dominates the life of an ill person and the family, Volunteers with different areas of expertise a place of simcha and healing to ease stress and can contribute their particular strengths such promote the health and well-being of patients, as music, movement, dance, or art. You could their families and the care-givers in every way. be a part of the KOACH DRIVE- one of the 28 A place which supplies activities for children, donors (numeric value of the Hebrew word beauty treatments, alternative healing therapists Koach – strength ) to each give R18 000 per such as refl exologists and massage therapists, annum (a multiple of the numeric value of Chai- information booklets on various illnesses, a link life) for the annual basic running costs of the to medical professionals and to survivors who centre. You could even donate accommodation will share their experiences and empathy. for a family retreat. The DL Link is situated in 8 Livingstone The DL Link is available to all Jewish families Street, Fairmount and is ready to embrace and is a non-profi t organisation endorsed by those in need. Founders Michelle Goodman, Rabbi Auerbach and Rabbi Liberow.

DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO: DL LINK - Nedbank Branch: 196605. Account:1001082818 Call Michelle: 082-551-4580 or e-mail: [email protected] Contact the above for more information to donate, volunteer or for assistance. Serious illness impacts the entire family; imagine if there was a link to social, emotional psychological and medical support... Clinical Emergencies - direct to the public Reliable medical equipment with full spares and service backup is on offer by Clinical Emergencies.

ONLY PRODUCTS from reputable compa- nies with a range of spares readily available is stocked so that, unlike some less expensive brands, you need not replace your equipment due to wear and tear. The range caters for all ages and all sizes and customised products are offered to ensure that the user has optimal benefi ts of the prod- uct and that they are not compromised in any way. Deliveries and collections are offered in Jo- hannesburg and surrounds and we courier to all other locations in South Africa. Our qualifi ed service staff will try to repair equipment on-site where possible. Many people are only aware of the avail- ability of wheelchairs, walkers and some bath chairs, but would improve their independence and comfort with the smaller and relatively un- known items such as sock aids, special needs crockery, cutlery and items for people with lim- ited hand function. It is important to us that the caregiver, family or user themselves, discuss all their diffi culties so that we can fi nd a solution for them. As one becomes less mobile it is important to consider the comfort of the person who may be very much bed- or chair-bound and of course to prevent, rather than have to treat, related prob- lems such as pressure sores. Clinical Emergencies offers home visits in Jo- hannesburg and surrounding areas, so that the user can try equipment in the comfort of their own homes. We stock a full range of mobility, hygiene, bedroom and bathroom products. • For more information on our wide range of devices and services, contact Alan or Bianca on (011) 443-9093 / 81 IV SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011 MEDICAL MATTERS Come smell the roses Medicine in a host of at Willowbrook alternative forms

Continued from page I

An example of an alternative type of treatment that is accepted in standard medicine since the 1950s is hypnotherapy, which is often applied in order to modify a subject’s behaviour, emo- tional content, and attitudes, as well as a wide range of conditions including dysfunctional hab- its, anxiety, stress-related illness, pain manage- ment, and personal development. Mixed results have been obtained for its ef- efi ts has dramatically increased in the past few COME TO beautiful Willowbrook Retirement the Day Care Unit. fi cacy in relation to the treatment of addictions, years. Village, to smell the roses, eat delicious food Day Care allows you to participate in all the an area where high relapse is common. The health benefi ts of the long-chain omega-3 (regret non-kosher), and join in all the activities. daily activities, develop new hobbies and best There is evidence from several studies that fatty acids - DHA and EPA omega-3 - are the Whether you like daily walks or stretching of all, make new friends. You can have your hair hypnosis’ inclusion in a weight reduction pro- best known. These benefi ts were discovered in exercises, a twice weekly trip to the shops or done or have a pedicure in comfort as well as gramme may signifi cantly enhance outcome. the 1970s by researchers studying the Green- special outings to theatres or the countryside, enjoy outings or a good show. You have all the Music has been shown to affect portions of land Inuit tribe. They consumed large amounts you could be having a wonderful time right benefi ts that permanent residents enjoy, then the brain. Part of music therapy is the ability of fat from seafood, but displayed virtually no now. go home in the evening pleasantly tired with of music to affect emotions and social interac- cardiovascular disease. For the less energetic, we have various lots to talk about. tions. Research has shown that music therapy The high level of omega-3 fatty acids con- games, arts and crafts, guest speakers and Whatever you decide, you will have plenty is associated with a decrease in depression, sumed by the Inuit reduced triglycerides, heart varied entertainers. It will also be a golden op- of fun things to do as well as having fi rst class improved mood, and a reduction in state anxi- rate, blood pressure, and atherosclerosis. portunity to socialise and enjoy life to the full- nursing care available, should you need it. ety. Additionally, it was found that music therapy People with certain circulatory problems, may est. Remember that Willowbrook Retirement Vil- had a positive effect on social and behavioural benefi t from such supplements containing EPA Join us as a long-term resident, or come lage has a semi frail and a frail-care unit with outcomes. and DHA which stimulate blood circulation and temporarily to recover from an illness or opera- a higher than usual staff ratio. This means that Current research also suggests that when have been shown to reduce blood pressure. tion. The sisters and care workers are all expe- there is peace of mind for the [hopefully distant] music therapy is used in conjunction with tra- A 2007 systematic review found evidence rienced and kind -and are only too pleased to future. ditional therapy, it improves success rates sig- that oral n-3 fatty acid supplements benefi t assist. Please feel free to phone or visit us without nifi cantly. cancer patients, reduce cardiovascular deaths, You can also allow the family time off to at- obligation. You can speak to Matron Pauline, Although omega-3 fatty acids have been promote neuronal growth and have a role as tend to their business if you book yourself to Penny or Elizabeth, who are always there for known as essential to normal growth and health non-prescription treatment for certain psychiat- come in for one to fi ve days a week to attend you. since the 1930s, awareness of their health ben- ric and mental diagnoses. Genetic conditions: Are you at risk? SHELLEY MACAULAY AND Adult Ashkenazi Jewish individuals should con- PROF AMANDA KRAUSE sider testing to clarify their carrier status. If you are found to be a carrier of any of the nine condi- MANY ARE aware of the increased risks for Tay- tions, it would be important to test your partner Sachs disease among the Jewish community, and genetic testing should ideally be done before due to the Jewish population descending from a planning a pregnancy. small number of ancestors and therefore sharing If both partners are carriers, a genetic coun- genetic information. sellor would discuss the implications, risks and However, besides Tay-Sachs disease, there options regarding planning a family. Halachic au- are a number of other inherited conditions for thorities could also be consulted. which the Ashkenazi Jewish people are at in- In addition to the severe childhood conditions creased risk, due to their common origins. These discussed above, there are other genetic diseas- include Canavan disease, cystic fi brosis, Fanconi es prevalent among the Ashkenazi Jewish popu- anaemia, familial dysautonomia, Niemann-Pick, lation, like Gaucher disease and inherited breast glycogen storage disease type 1a, mucolipidosis and/or ovarian cancer syndrome. IV and Bloom syndrome (among others). Gaucher disease is also an autosomal reces- All of these are incapacitating and fatal con- sive condition and carrier testing is available. In- ditions that affect young children, and for which herited breast and/or ovarian cancer is passed sadly, there is no cure. on in families in a dominant manner where one The conditions are inherited in an autosomal affected parent has a 50 per cent chance of giv- recessive manner. To have an affected child, both ing the faulty gene to his/her children. parents need to carry a faulty gene. Carriers are Genetic testing is available for high-risk families healthy individuals who do not have any symp- (families with a history of breast and/or ovarian toms and unless genetic testing is performed, cancer, particularly if the disease has occurred at would be oblivious to their genetic status. a young age or in multiple individuals). Each time two carriers have a baby there is a In accordance with international guidelines, 25 per cent (one in four) chance of having an af- genetic testing for inherited breast and/or ovar- fected child. ian cancer syndrome is only performed after an Individuals need to know their risks and under- individual has attended a genetic counselling stand the implications to enable them to make consultation. informed choices. Understanding your genetic risks is imperative Genetic carrier testing for nine Ashkenazi Jew- to the well-being of your family. Having the nec- ish diseases is available. The Division of Human essary knowledge and facts assists individuals in Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and making informed decisions. the University of the Witwatersrand, perform the • For any queries, please contact the Division “Full Ashkenazi Test”. of Human Genetics, NHLS and the Univer- The testing procedure, approved by the Jo- sity of the Witwatersrand on (011) 489-9223 or hannesburg Beth Din and supported by the e-mail [email protected] or amanda. Southern African Rabbinical Association, involves krause.nhls.ac.za a simple blood test, and most medical aids do Article supplied by Genzyme. For more cover the cost. information contact (011) 996-3860. 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 9 TAPESTRY

ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE Belief systems worth more than a fleeting visit The Masque of Africa: Glimpses gious ritual in countries traditional lifestyles - from casual interviewees. Yet he impressions, it hardly makes for of African Belief by VS Naipaul like Uganda. illustrate this clearly. accepts at face value whatever credibility. (Picador, R201) “Apparent” because to Intercessionaries in those interviewees tell him. The wisest approach to take to an uninformed observer the form of witchdoc- Someone in Gabon - a “foreign, this book is the cautious one: treat REVIEWED BY GWEN PODBREY - which Naipaul, for all tors, oracles and divin- but well-placed source” - claims it as a very subjective account of his erudition and acuity, ers - not unlike the role that hundreds of people were ritu- traditional religions in Africa and NOBEL LAUREATE Sir Vidiadhar surely is - it is danger- of prophets - straddle the ally murdered for the funeral simply enjoy Naipaul’s effortlessly Surajprasad Naipaul has long had ously easy to make value ancestral realm and the of President Felix Houphouet- fluid and beguiling writing, for it a troubled relationship with reli- judgements based on modern world to ensure Boigny. Naipaul accepts it as fact. occasionally transcends his ran- gion. His previous books, almost Western/Eastern stan- that developments and While this is a common enough cour and palpable sadness, and without exception, have tussled dards. calamities in one can practice among travel writers casts light on an otherwise heavily with what he sees as its deleterious So he gives us repeat- be compensated for in recording their first (indeed, only) adumbrated work. influence on developing countries ed, detailed passages of another. battling to improve their quality of prescribed human sacri- Achieving this balance life, whether these criticisms were fices or executions, citizens abusing is what sustains ancient African directed at Islam, Christianity or animals and each other, the promi- faiths in the face of increasingly cor- his own people’s Hinduism. nence of churches and mosques in rosive modern forces. Now, in what purports to be an dilapidated, infrastructurally poor In Nigeria, soaring crime levels - enquiry into the “nature of African villages and the seemingly unques- due to uncontrolled rates of urbani- belief” in the course of his travels tioning allegiance of the population sation, together with centuries-old to Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, the to nominal religious leaders. tribal rivalries and modern-day Ivory Coast, Gabon and South He explores, too, the inter-pollina- political corruption which reinforce Africa, he brings the same cyni- tion of traditional African and for- and play on each other - charismatic cism to bear. eign faiths, and the seditious effects Christian churches exist uneasily The problem, however, is that of Christianity and Islam on the alongside Yoruba gods and goddess- achieving an understanding, in any integrity of tribal integrity. es. Both have an unassailable place. depth, of the structure and func- “With the new religion, people Yet Naipaul is told: “Even the tion of a belief system - whether in became insubordinate,” a Bugan- pastor of the church will go very Africa, Asia or elsewhere - depends dan prince tells Naipaul. quietly, if he can, to the traditional on more than a brief visit using a “And that, of course, would have priest and the shrine… The average foreign viewpoint as a prism. been true for both Christianity and African is very afraid of the Any anthropology student knows Islam. To belong to either was to be pagan… Muslims and Christians better than to attempt to isolate a part of a great world faith, approved practise forgiveness and cannot belief system from its tribal or cul- and organised, with a great litera- harm you. In the pagan religion, tural context and, worse, judge it as ture and famous solid buildings; the there is no forgiveness. It is a tit- an independent entity. And when temptation to look away from the for-tat religion. There are rules you such an inadvisable exercise is much smaller thing, of grass, that have to follow very strictly, and if undertaken with jaundiced precon- was one’s own was great.” you go against them, you either die ceptions, there is little hope for any- He notes, too, the repetition of or go mad.” thing substantial from the visitor’s tyrannical regimes among tribal He avoids wholesale condemna- fleeting “glimpses”, as the book’s African peoples, one despot emulat- tion of what he sees and hears, but title attests. ing another through the centuries. the subtext is unmistakable. Then, too, Naipaul’s physical dis- “Amin and Obote have a kind of In fairness, though, there are comfort during his journey ancestry. The British colonial peri- moments of wonder. His fascination through the continent exacerbates od, with law and without local wars, with, for example, the hallucinogen- his disenchantment. Temperatures has to be seen as an interlude. powered, astral journeys of Gabon’s are intolerably high; the flies are “But how do Africans live with Fang people, forces him to concede oppressive; guides, and porters are their African history? Perhaps the the ingeniousness of certain rituals. unreliable and greedy; roads are absence of a script and written His distaste for religion, its encum- rutted and garbage-strewn. records blurs the past; perhaps the brances and anomalies, does not Like most travellers to Africa, oral history gives them only wholly blind him to its often over- Naipaul’s vision is fixated on its myths,” he muses. whelming beauty. present squalor and its often vio- Indeed. The cosmologies of And, for all his cynicism, Naipaul lent past. In particular, his atten- African peoples - constantly rein- has a knack for locating flaws in tion is focused on the apparent bar- vented and elaborated upon in structures which others invariably barity and cheapness of life in reli- order to explain past abuses of their miss, a good many of them gleaned L’Afrique exhibition on until end February ROBYN SASSEN until February 28, it was relaunched recently, for the launch of the Stein- L’AFRIQUE, a tribute exhibition at Lessing/Spiegel Bursary for art his- MuseumAfrica to the late art histori- tory study at the University of the an Maria Stein-Lessing and her hus- Witwatersrand. band Leopold Spiegel, curated by Spiegel bequeathed R20 000 for Nessa Leibhammer and Natalie the bursary, per year, over 10 years, Knight, reviewed in these pages in to be awarded on the basis of merit Curator, Nessa Leibhammer. 2009, was originally pegged to be and need. For more information: (PHOTOGRAPH: ILAN OSSENDRYVER) open until December 2010. Extended (011) 717-4611.

Trevor Stamelman: 082-608-0168 Tel: (011) 885-3742 [email protected] www.stamelmanproperties.co.za

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Guidelines for letters: Letters up to 400 words will get preference. Please provide your full first name Disclaimer: The letters page is intended to provide opportunity for a range of views on any and surname, place of residence, and a daytime contact telephone or cell number. We do not publish let- given topic to be expressed. Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not ters under noms de plume. Letters should preferably be e-mailed. Letters may be edited or shortened. necessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff or directors of the Jewish Report

IN THIS INSTANCE A RECIPROCAL PUNISHMENT IS NEEDED SAJBD RESPONDS TO STANLEY LUNTZ’S LETTER IN THE SAJR RECENTLY THE Media Review Network (MRN) Zomemin Witnesses where an individual wilfully STANLEY LUNTZ’S letter of Feb- light, such a meeting shows how it and the Palestinian Solidarity Alliance (PSA) false- makes a false statement to a court of law (purgery). ruary 4 (“Board is in state of denial exercised its initiative in trying to ly accused (Kadima Party leader) Tzipi Livni and My understanding of this Jewish law would sug- regarding Baal Shem Tov Shul”) is just resolve the situation on behalf of the South Africans who participated in Operation Cast gest that the MRN and PSA should therefore be the latest broadside in what has for shul. Lead (the Gaza war) of “war crimes” similar to that punished with the very consequences that they some reason been allowed to escalate • Contrary to claims that the Board of dictators Charles Taylor, Omar Bashir and the had planned to have inflicted upon the “victims of into an exceptionally acrimonious, has ignored the Baal Shem Tov issue, Nazis. Sentences for such crimes could be life their plot” - a reciprocal punishment - and not the damaging and divisive controversy. we have been regularly involved in try- imprisonment or death. bland refusal by the NPA to prosecute, with no While any further response from the ing to resolve it for over a year now. While South Africa’s National Prosecuting legal consequences. SAJBD, far from allaying certain peo- During this time, we offered our assis- Authority (NPA) could find no grounds for such ple’s concerns, is likely only to pro- tance, input, support and guidance prosecutions, Tractata Makkos, in Seder Nezkin Mark Wade voke further abusive comment, some every step of the way, with these offers (Deuteronomy 19:16-21), defines such people as Johannesburg of the specific accusations Luntz levels ultimately being declined. do require a brief response, if only for • Finally, it is simply not true that CRUELTY INHERENT IN FACTORY FARMING IS AN OBSCENITY the record. the Board prevented the BST Rabbi • Most seriously, the SAJBD is from appearing on ChaiFM, some- OVER A year ago (Jewish Report Rosh Hashanah make an item kosher - it merely confirms that it accused of turning “a deaf ear to thing the station manager, Kevin Fine, edition 2009), Drs Menache, Picker and myself is. Since the cruelties inherent in factory farming reports and evidence of (Councillor will readily verify. argued that the cruelties inherent in factory farm- are clearly an obscenity in any moral society, bat- Christine) Walters’ rabidly anti- BST representatives have had ing render not only meat and chicken unkosher, tery eggs are treif, and any Jew who brings treif Semitic actions”. In fact, as it does with extensive coverage both in the print but also battery eggs and milk. products into his/her kitchen is defiling his/her all claims of anti-Semitism (especially and electronic media, and while our We asked the Beth Din to justify how they could home. when attributed to public figures), the belief remains that fighting this case endorse the maiming of chickens, whose beaks Even if the Chief Rabbi, who, ironically, prides Board, with its legal advisers, investi- in the media is counter-productive, and toes are often cut off, without anaesthetic, in himself on his sensitivity to the suffering of the gated the allegations very thoroughly we have never and will never try to order to facilitate their being crammed into cages innocent, does not deem animals worthy of his indeed. prevent them from following this so small they can never spread their wings. moral concern, he should at the very least be con- Our conclusion was that the avail- route. Male chicks, a by-product of the egg industry, cerned about the kosher status of his congre- able evidence was insufficient to either Probably, none of the above will sat- are routinely ground up alive. Not only do these gants’ kitchens, let alone his own. confirm or refute accusations of anti- isfy those who are determined to barbaric acts contravene the Torah injunction of The Chief Rabbi of Israel will no longer label Semitic behaviour, and that no con- believe that the SAJBD is in denial tsa’ar ba’alei chayim - the prevention of suffering certain imported meats as “kosher”, given the structive purpose would therefore be about anti-Semitic threats to Jewish to living creatures - but they almost certainly con- cruelties involved in the slaughtering process. served by proceeding along those institutions and is bent on hindering travene the Noahite Law not to remove flesh from Surely the South African Beth Din can turn its lines. rather than helping when it comes to a living animal. attention towards issues of this kind? Mr Luntz is free to disagree with safeguarding the BST’s future. The Beth Din, by condoning barbaric practices that conclusion, but this does not justi- However, I hope that the community forbidden even to non-Jews, are betraying the Dr Elisa Galgut fy his baseless accusation that the at large will recognise that even if one Jewish community. The kosher hechsher does not Cape Town Board failed to deal with the matter. disagrees with the stance the Board • Luntz’s allegation that SAJBD has taken, all its actions have been LOOK AT BA’ATA FOR EXAMPLE OF PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE Director Wendy Kahn “lied” when say- informed by a sincere belief as to what AFTER RETURNING from Israel, I have decided after being shot by Egyptian border police while ing she had never met with Ms Walters is the most sensible and effective way to share my voice on the debate raging in the trying to flee the country. They are then dropped when in fact the Board’s chairman, of addressing the situation. paper. off in southern Tel Aviv, where they are met by Zev Krengel, had done so, is unjust and After 108 years of fighting anti- I visited a village called Ba’ata which is situat- the African Refugee Development Centre uncalled for. Semitism, I think we can claim to have ed right on the green line, in fact the green line (ARDC) where they are given a clothing bundle The truth is that Mrs Kahn had at least a basic working knowledge of cuts directly through the village making half of and some food to start them off in their new indeed never personally met with the when, where and how of address- it an Israeli village and the other half a country. Walters and understood the question ing anti-Semitic behaviour. That we Palestinian one. The only thing separating them The ARDC also gives classes in Hebrew, mak- to be directed at herself. At worst, can undeniably point to an impressive is a little ditch in the road. ing it easier for the refugees to be absorbed into therefore, this was a case of “crossed track record in this regard is in no Amazingly the people in Ba’ata live peacefully their new country while their asylum status is wires”, but Luntz chooses rather to small measure due to knowing when a together, businesses flourish on both sides of the being processed. This is the side of Israel I saw - depict it as a case of deliberate dishon- case is strong enough to be followed city, schools a stone’s throw away fly separate not a blood-thirsty human rights abuser, but esty. through to a successful conclusion and flags, yet the children play sport together after rather a country of peace-seeking people. Has the writer further considered when it is not. school. What is needed is for people to look at Ba’ata just what the Board had to gain by con- This situation here is a clear microcosm of the as an example of a way in which harmony and cealing the fact that it had met with David Saks term two-state solution, with neither side at war peace can be achieved. Israel is not the blood- Walters? Far from putting it in a bad Associate Director SAJBD with each other. There is no need for boycotts as thirsty country people make it out to be. Stop the Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu calls for. call for boycotts; allow the Israelis and BEWARE WHEN OZONE LAYER OF HUMAN PROTECTION GOES There is no need to add more wood to the fire; Palestinians to sit down and talk together with- I RECENTLY spent two very pleasant they now hold, lacking educational what the Archbishop is doing, is simply adding out the whole world interfering. weeks in South Africa having emi- and cultural skills that we were more wood to the fire, increasing the tension - I believe that those two groups of people can grated 25 ago to Sydney, Australia. afforded. the final squeeze before the blister of turmoil sit down and talk and discuss peace without out- I have been back numerous times When they go home they surely pops. side intervention needed and there can be a and have been pleasantly surprised would discuss this with their kids Moreover, I looked into the African refugee Jewish state and a Palestinian state side by side at some of the positive integration and future generations who might problem Israel is currently experiencing. People in the Middle East. that has occurred. release their fury in generations to from Sudan and Eritrea are coming to Israel Fortunately the blood baths and come when the ozone layer of protec- seeking asylum. Are they being turned away? Ori Tobias anarchy that some people predicted tion that the older guard of the ANC No. They are firstly being healed by the army, Glenhazel, Johannesburg did not occur. burns away and educated black peo- What astounded me was how dis- ple start venting their anger around. NOT ‘GOOD’ ENOUGH? THEN KD SCHOOLS DON’T WANT YOU gustingly the white people talk to the Also, please remember that it was black people in all walks of life, espe- not so long ago that we as Jews were I HAVE only been reading your paper for a couple took some years to overcome, and it alienated me cially noticed at kosher counters in spoken to in Europe with such preju- of months, so it was with some interest that I read from the Jewish community, as I felt betrayed by hypermarkets where I heard my fel- diced disdain. Please bear this in the articles of the last few weeks discussing the being found wanting by the school I looked up to. low Jews, including Israelis, abusing mind when next talking to people less high matric pass rate at Jewish schools, which And I still feel somewhat bitter today on being attendants as if they were animals. fortunate than yourselves and try to recalled my bitter experience of the same, and reminded of the incident, while reading the Jewish These people were not afforded the be the “Light to the other nations“. when I read the article on the Wolf brothers, I felt I Report. privileged education that we received had to comment: As things are, it was a better path I took as for generations and have had to David Evian In 1981, in standard 7, having been at King David Studywell exposed me to a broad range of ethnic struggle their way into the jobs that Sydney, Australia School Linksfield since grade 1, my parents and I groups and it better prepared me for my future were called in by Elliot Wolf for a meeting in which than King David could have done. he voiced his concern over some of my marks and In point of fact, I have not been an active member CONVERSIONS NOT AN OPTION TO STRENGTHEN JUDAISM gave his recommendation that my parents remove of the Jewish community these last 25 years, due JARED JOEL makes some interesting (often such as is unknown among me from King David and send me to a trade school, largely to the alienation I felt after Wolf’s judge- and valid points in his letter “SA Jews more secular Jews) be lacking, I can as I would have little or no chance of passing ment and I have only started re-attending shul and can strengthen position through hardly see this being expanded further matric. taking part in Jewish affairs recently, as a result of alliances, conversions“. In terms of afield! Despite my promises to try harder, he remained moving to Krugersdorp, where Gerry Lange and “alliances”, this is already indeed a Unlike American and British adamant. I subsequently was enrolled at Studywell Marc Kopman “headhunted” a newly-arrived “work in progress”. Jewry, which reportedly accommo- College, where I attained a most satisfactory matric Jewish family and convinced me to join services at The many charitable activities con- date families where there is a current in 1984, and today, after study in several fields I am the shul, where Rabbi Danny Dworcan and the rest stantly undertaken by the Jewish day mix of Jewish and non-Jewish mem- the MD of a multimillion-rand turnover business. of the wonderfully friendly Krugersdorp congrega- schools and various organisations, are bers and marriages, thus building the I felt that comment was called for, as it was then tion showed me how welcome I was. regularly featured in the Jewish press. numbers of the community, the a little-kept secret that certain schools maintained I now attend most services during the week, as However, this is not sufficiently fea- South African Beth Din carefully their high pass rate record for matric by carefully the Krugersdorp Jewish community has welcomed tured in the general media. Why not? combs through lists of ancestors lest weeding out those learners who appeared as me with open arms - the first time that I have a Should we not be letting all South any past infiltration of non-Jews (or though they might spoil the school’s advertised sense of religious “place” within the broader Africans know how we “hold hands” “Reform” Jews) be identified, so that “record” of a 100 per cent pass-rate. Jewish community, since I was at primary school. with these wonderfully generous and they can be excluded. I do not deny that there were teachers and sub- I wonder if the practice of “streaming“ still bonding endeavours? The loss of not only numbers now, jects I had problems with, but a professional inter- exists today, as I have heard through the years from Regarding “conversions”: This wor- but of future generations, of the vention could clearly have remedied this, as my others that my situation was far from unique. I thy suggestion, dear Joel, is sadly “pie diminishing South African Jewish later experience under headmaster Henry wonder what the long-term implications were for (or perogen) in the sky”! community, is incalculable and causes Blumenthal of Studywell was to prove. others with similar experiences to mine. Considering that candidate conver- much hurt. To Mr Wolf I want to say that it should be borne tees often endure many years of in mind that young psyches are sensitive and his Jonathan Kaicener grilling and investigation lest any, Sonja Bulkin decision left me with a feeling of inferiority that Noordheuwel, Krugersdorp however small, nuance of observance Highlands North, Johannesburg 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 COMMUNITY COLUMNS ‘Footsteps to ABOVE Remembering BOARD FED FOCUS the future’ Zev Krengel, Ivan Levy Avrom Krengel ing battle against the world’s hostility and National Chairman all. The phenomenon has manifested in Chairman attempts to delegitimise her. various ways in South Africa – most Towards the end of March this year, the SA A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies recently in the publicity attracted by the A column of the South African Zionist Federation Zionist Federation will be hosting its 47th visiting music group Faithless’ professed Conference - “Footsteps to the Future” - IVAN LEVY, who sadly passed away last refusal to visit Israel – and we can expect it POLITICAL EVENTS in and around Israel bringing Israel to our community. Shabbat, epitomised the SAJBD’s zero-tol- to continue to surface for some time to since the 2006 46th SA Zionist Federation We have a magnificent line-up of guest erance stance towards anti-Semitism. An come. Conference have had major impacts on speakers and we urge people not to miss the outstanding lawyer, who headed one of the To date, Jewish organisations have Jewish communities around the world, opportunity of hearing firsthand astute and country’s leading law firms, he continually worked together in confronting these specifically the kidnapping of Gilad Shalit in perspicacious analyses of much of what has put his considerable skills at the disposal attacks in every way possible, be it the June 2006, the second Lebanon War the fol- happened these past four years. of our community to assist in combating attempted boycott of Ahava products, the lowing month, the Annapolis Conference in On Saturday night March 2, the gala open- anti-Jewish prejudice in all its manifesta- attempt to prevent Cape Town Opera from 2007, Operation Cast Lead in 2008, the release ing event will be addressed by John Howard, tions. He further provided pro bono assis- visiting Israel and the campaign to bring of the Goldstone Report in 2009 and the Gaza prime minister of Australia from 1997 – 2006, tance to a range of Jewish communal about the severance of ties between the Flotilla incident in 2010. and a great friend of Israel; and Professor organisations. University of Johannesburg and Ben- But Israel is not only political; and during Alan Dershowitz, Felix Frankfurter Professor At the time when I first became involved Gurion University of the Negev. the same time we celebrated the Nobel Prize of Law at Harvard Law Schools, whose books at the SAJBD, Ivan already occupied a sen- We will continue to join forces in con- in Chemistry won in 2009 by Prof. Ada on Israel are required reading for anyone ior position within its leadership struc- fronting this pernicious tactic, which mas- Yonath, the first Israeli woman to win a Nobel needing or wanting to know the country’s tures. He went on to become chairman of querades as a human rights campaign but Prize. true history and political background. the Gauteng Council and national vice- is in reality a dishonest, hypocritical and We also noted with pride that only one day On Sunday March 27, the different sessions chairman, and after stepping down from manipulative attempt to drive Israel out of following the devastating earthquake in Haiti, will be addressed by a number of internation- these positions continued to serve on the the family of nations. 220 Israelis, comprising teams of doctors and al and local speakers. Among the former is Col Board’s legal subcommittee. rescue and relief workers, were already on Richard Kemp, commander of the British The acumen, industry and devotion to University exams – pleasing successes their way to offer much needed assistance. Forces in Afghanistan in 2003 and one of those safeguarding Jewish well-being that he Over the past couple of weeks, we have The country’s economy has grown steadily, who gave evidence to the Goldstone unfailingly displayed throughout his com- been able to successfully deal with prob- with Israel officially joining the Organisation Commission on the morality of the IDF; while munal career will be greatly missed. On lems relating to the writing of university for Economic Co-operation and Development Tim Hughes of the SA Institute of behalf of the SAJBD, I extend my sincerest exams close to Shabbat at Unisa and the (OECD) in 2010; and there has been a notice- International Affairs, is another of our guests. condolences to his wife, Barbara, children scheduling of a Wits graduation ceremony able increase in aliyah figures from South • • • and family. on Shabbat. Africa. This Conference will give audiences some This resolution was made possible by the The devastating fires in the Carmel excellent insights into Israel, the Middle ‘BDS’ – the latest strategy to delegit- very accommodating and understanding Mountains at the end of last year, left 40 East and the future, both of that region and imise Israel approach of those institutions, for which Israelis dead and millions of trees destroyed, of our relationship as a strongly Zionist The strategy of boycotts, divestment and we are extremely grateful. We will contin- but Egypt, Jordan and the Palestinian community going into the next decades with sanctions (BDS) against Israel is often ue to work closely with the various univer- Authority, among others, offered much-need- Israel. claimed by its proponents to be no more sities to ensure that observant students are ed help to the country as she reeled under the Booking is essential; and the nominal fee of than a way of pressurising Israel to not prejudiced by timetable clashes. shock of this immense tragedy. R50 per person will go to the rehabilitation of change its “unjust” policies vis-à-vis the To assist us in this, we urge that those Throughout all these happenings, the SA the Carmel Forests. Palestinians. facing such difficulties contact us at the Zionist Federation has been at the forefront of Phone bookings can be done on (011) 645- Looking just a little way beneath the sur- first opportunity so that we can take those defending Israel and promoting the truth. We 2541; or e-mail [email protected] face, however, we quickly find that what is cases up as timeously as possible. have fought for the right to present the facts at issue is not this or that particular Israeli as they are, and to support Israel in her ongo- This column is paid for by the SAJF policy but the very right of Israel to exist at This column is paid for by the SAJBD 12 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011

YOUTH TALK Alison Goldberg [email protected]

Helen Raff (second from right) with her daughters YC learners attend a Miri Raff (left), a 2010 matriculant from Torah Academy Girls’ High, and high-profile US seminar Tovi Steiner, a Kodesh teacher at the GHS and OWN CORRESPONDENT. Helen’s father Ben Bader. PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED AS A forerunner in South African Jewish education, Yeshiva College in Johannesburg constantly strives to bring new, innovative ideas and programmes to the Jewish schooling culture of the coun- Faygie and Moshe try. Montrose with Every year, Yeshiva University of New their son and York hosts a Model United Nations pro- daughter-in-law gramme aimed at unifying and educating Shmuel and Rivkie, Jewish youth from the Americas and granddaughter Tali Canada in international affairs. This year, the three-day seminar ran (in front) and son from February 6 – 8 and hosted debates Yossi (back, left). covering topics such as human rights issues, world health and warfare, among Zac Feldman; Raphi Feldman; Sarah others. For the first time in the history of Levin; and Naomi Shear. the Yunmun programme, South African TA bids farewell to learners participated. will return to initiate a permanent South Yeshiva College sent a delegation of four African participation in this phenomenal learners to take part in this year’s seminar, programme. The learners who represented pioneering what will hopefully become an Yeshiva College were Zac Feldman, Raphi two of its stalwarts eligible, distinguished programme open to Feldman, Naomi Shear and Sarah Levin. all Jewish day schools across South Africa. They were accompanied by principal STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY sedes the above verses. He mentioned that This year’s Yeshiva College delegation Denese Bloch. SUZANNE BELLING Faygie and Helen had always been an example of faith in Hashem and love and LONGSTANDING STAFF members of concern for people, but beyond that, they Torah Academy, Faygie Montrose, Boys’ mastered the fulfilment of daily duty, Mitch Braff highlights High School secretary for the past 27 commitment and dependability for so years, and Helen Raff, social worker for many years. the past 17, had gone beyond their duties Faygie, who has over the years worked and the “daily grind of responsibility” for a number of principals of TABHS, role of Jewish partisans and were among the “true heroes who do said she had mixed feelings about leav- it themselves”, said TA dean, Rabbi Dovid ing and would not retire from working RONNIE MINK Hazdan. “as the Rebbe did not believe in retire- PHOTOGRAPH: GARY BLOCK He was speaking at a farewell reception ment”. in their honour at the school late last year. She said the 27 years she had worked ON WEDNESDAY, February 2, King David “A lot of seasons have come and gone, represented “zach” (which meant pure) High School (Linksfield) played host to the generations of past pupils are now grown and Helen’s 17 stood for “tov” (good). renowned Holocaust educator, Mitch Braff. men and you have worked with many per- Helen reflected on her years working Braff, who lives in San Francisco, is the sonnel,” Rabbi Hazdan said. with learners from “different Jewish back- founder and director of the Jewish He drew the gathering’s attention to a grounds” including the gifted to those with Partisans Educational Foundation whose midrash that highlights the importance of emotional or physical disabilities. aim is to collect, record and disseminate the verse “Shema Yisrael” that proclaims “Change is not always easy, but it is nec- testimony from surviving Jewish partisans our faith and the verse “veahavta lereacha essary.” She advised the young and new who waged a desperate struggle for sur- kamocha” (“you shall love your neighbour educators “to take the baton from the vival against the Nazis during the Shoah. as yourself”) that teaches us to love our older educationists” in ensuring continu- This struggle has been vividly and accu- neighbour. ity. rately portrayed in Edward Zwick’s suc- cessful movie “Defiance”, which highlight- It continues to say that the verse teach- Rabbi Hazdan made presentations on Mitch Braff giving his presentation. ing the daily consistent sacrifice super- behalf of the school to Faygie and Helen. ed the role played by the Bielski brothers’ partisan unit in the forests of Belarus. Braff was a consultant in the making of in the afternoon, where his organisation’s this movie. teaching units were discussed. Braff gave a fascinating hour-long multi- Through Braff’s work, the true role of 2 KDVP Primary School media presentation to the grade 11 classes, the partisans have gained the recognition and also conducted a seminar for teachers they so richly deserve. teachers retire CINDY MORRIS AND SEFFIE BECKER PHOTOGRAPH: SHIRA TOLLMAN Ryan Lang’s family, TZIPPY DAMELIN has been associated Rachel, Jenny with the King David family for many, and Clive many years She has always been totally Lang. His accepted and part of our special, caring mom, Jenny, family at King David. She first started teaching here in 1991. reads out a Her dedication to teaching is much to be poem to the admired. She is kind, loving and a second group. “mommy” to all the children she has taught. She is eager to share her knowl- edge of Yiddishkeit as can be seen and heard in davening every morning, as well KDHL remembers passing as the heart-warming grade 2 siddur cere- mony. Dynamite comes in small packages. As away of Ryan Lang small as she is “Mrs D” exudes much pro- fessionalism and integrity and is a true KEREN ZWICK incredible tenacity and spirit of Ryan. lady to her fingertips. A true Eishet PHOTOGRAPH: GARY BLOCK Subsequent to this, the family, friends, Chayil! All at King David Victory Park staff and grade 12 learners planted a tree in Primary thank you for all your dedication Maureen Slabe and Tzippy Damelin. THE MORNING of February 7, witnessed a Ryan’s memory in the courtyard outside the and service and wish you all the best in sad occasion at King David High School admin block. The tree and its plaque will your new venture. The versatility of Maureen is evident in Linksfield when the school held a memorial serve as a constant reminder of Ryan’s lega- Maureen Slabe left the school after hav- the fact that she has taught many differ- service for Ryan Lang, a grade 12 learner, cy in the school. He will always be lovingly ing served there for 35 “short” years. She ent grades and age groups. who passed away earlier this year. remembered here. has touched the lives of generations of For those of you who know her well, Ryan’s tragic death was a traumatic loss to Ryan was in fact a pupil of mine for the young and old. will know that her passion definitely lies the grade, the school and the Jewish commu- past two years and I was eagerly looking for- Maureen has helped build the very with the little ones. She has the ability to nity as a whole. ward to teaching him for his final year at foundations that has made this school inspire the quietest child to speak. On His family joined the school in the morn- school. His incredible curiosity and courage what it is today. Many children have been behalf of all the staff and children, go ing for a prayer service and a memorial cer- were always an inspiration to me and his fortunate to experience her endearing, well. Enjoy your own children and grand- emony. Friends Ashlee Zlotnick, Gabriel determination to succeed in every moment kind, compassionate and most of all nur- children. Good luck for all your endeav- Smith and Myra Rosin, addressed the school, of his life, made him an inspiration to every- turing ways. ours. Behatzlacha! reminding everyone to commemorate the one with whom he came into contact. 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 13

timeless wisdom of Judaism - at all levels of Six week course to put observance”. Developed by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, Chabad Lubavitch’s adult educa- tion arm, the course is offered through 300 greater meaning to life Chabad affiliates, including the Chabad branches in Savoy, Johannesburg; Village RABBI ARI Kievman, known for his work and looks at how you can breathe more Walk and Gallo Manor, Sandton; the Torah with the community’s seniors, is spear- meaning into the life you currently lead.” Academy Shul in Oaklands, Johannesburg; heading a six week course under the aus- He describes it as being “designed to and in Umhlanga Rocks and Cape Town. pices of Chabad, entitled “Towards a equip and empower you to make paradigm Heavily endorsed by writers, radio talk- Meaningful Life: A Soul-Searching Journey shifts in your life and set your life in the show hosts, professors and other highly for Every Jew” The course starts in direction you’ve always wanted it to go”. qualified professionals, including Jewish February, Tuesday, 15th at 09:30 at Chabad Including writing your own personal mis- luminaries like historian Sir Martin Gilbert, House and at 19:45 at Chabad at Village sion statement, developing healthy atti- Alan Dershowitz, Simon Wiesenthal and Walk; Thursday, 17th at 19:45 at Chabad at tudes toward love and relationship and many others, this series of six 90-minute ses- Torah Academy; Tuesday, 22nd at 09:30 at learning how to balance work and personal sions is designed to help you break the cycle Savoy, and lastly Gallo Manor; Thursday, life, as well as the pursuit of money and of existential anxiety and to begin to really 23rd at 19:45. In a media release Rabbi how to find meaning in it all, the course is live life the way it’s meant to be lived. Kievman calls it an “intellectually stimulat- “not a simple matter of ‘don’t worry, be • To register, call Chabad House: (011) 440- ing, hands-on learning experience that happy’, but of seeing the big picture and 6600 or e-mail [email protected] or visit addresses the fundamental aspects of life refocusing, and infusing daily life with the www.JLI.com Jewish Learning Centre offers life skills course THE GREAT PARK Synagogue in Johan- nesburg is offering an exciting six-week course, entitled “Toward a Meaningful Life”. The venue is the Clive M Beck Auditorium at the Great Park Synagogue and the dates are six consecutive Mondays beginning February14 to March 21, at 19:45 to 21:15. Cost for the entire course is R200. Bursaries are available. “The objective of this course is to teach and empower individuals of all back- grounds with new life skills based on tradi- tional Torah thought, thereby enabling them to transform the way they view their daily lives”, according to a media release from the Jewish Learning Centre in Johannesburg. During the course “we will examine the spectrum of life, personal growth, relation- ships, home, work, special challenges, and the role of G-d and faith in daily existence. Participants will be invited to challenge their current views and consider more meaning- ful approaches to these topical subjects.” Each lesson is presented with interactive PowerPoint and video presentation as well as an accompanying textbook. In addition, each self-contained lesson will conclude with a toolbox of exercises and guidelines to help students make full use of the ideas and strategies that will be discussed. Like all previous JLI courses, Toward a Meaningful Life is designed to appeal to peo- ple at all levels of Jewish knowledge, includ- ing those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public. Rabbi Ziegler joins Cyrildene Shul CYRILDENE SHUL invites the Jewish com- munity and in particular present and previ- ous members who have been associated with the shul for some 70 years, to participate in the inauguration of Rabbi Yochanan Ziegler as the spiritual leader of the congregation. Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein will offici- ate at the inauguration which starts at 08:30 on Sunday, February 20. The service will be followed by a breakfast in the shul hall. RSVP Rhona (011) 616-3312. ChaiFM’s Keep it Clean campaign gets going THE CHAIFM Keep it Clean campaign got going at the James Ethel Gray Park in Birdhaven, Johannesburg, last Sunday. The community station said in a media release its appeal to the community to clean up the polluted river at the park was heeded by more than 100 people of all ages. The station says the campaign is aimed at creating awareness of the impact of a clean and healthy environment and to be the sta- tion that leads by example. Marketing Manager Maayan Steele focus- es on the community as agents of change and ChaiFM prides itself in being the pro- tagonist for all communities. Says Steele, “The Keep it Clean park clean-up is just the first of many initiatives and we are now looking to partner with the Alexandra com- munity to clean up the Jukskei River.” 14 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 - 18 February 2011

WHAT’S ON Barry Bilewitz [email protected]

NOTE: Deadline for all entries is 12:00 on the Friday entire course. Bursaries are available. For reserva- Tuesday (February 22) Upstanders during the Holocaust”. prior to publication. tions please contact Rabbi Simpson on 079-106- 4777 or e-mail [email protected] • WIZO Fortnightly Forum hosts a special tea to honour • Society of Israel Philately meeting at 10:00 in the Today Friday (February 11) 4 Jewish women who have made a difference to the boardroom of the Waverley Synagogue. All welcome. Tuesday (February 15) community – Marlene Bethlehem; Edna Freinkel; Refreshments. Free entry. Contact M Daniels 082- • UZLC presents Ivor Davis on “Why we Write Letters • Bnoth Zion Association Wizo AGM at Albow Sylvia Glasser; and Natalie Knight at 09:30 at 385-9736. to the Press”. Beyachad. All welcome. To book phone (011) 645- Centre, Cape Town at 09:30. Guest speaker is Wednesday (March 2) Sunday (February 13) Mervyn Smith, chairman African Jewish 2515. Congress. Wednesday (February 23) • SFCC presents Lance Metz on “Reaching the Summit • Big Band Music Appreciation Society is meeting of Everest”. in the Jeffrey Auditorium, St John’s College, St • RCHCC and JHGC present the free exhibition, • Second Innings outing to Hakunamatata Health Sunday (March 6) John’s Road, Lower Houghton at 14:15. Contact “Pictures of Resistance” at 18:30, followed by the Spa. Meet at Oxford Street Shul at 08:30. Cost: Dave on (011) 885-3525 or Barney on (011) 615- screening of “Jerusalem in the Woods – The Bielski R330, includes the bus, your choice of treatment • Second Innings presents Andre Hattingh on “Change 3412. Brothers” at 19:30 - donation R50. in special surroundings, and a full lunch. Book Your World”. • Second Innings hosts “Fascinating Aida” at the Wednesday (February 16) with Helen Wolfson by no later than February 20. Wednesday (March 16) Montecasino Theatre. Cost: R100. Meet at 15:00 at • SFCC presents Prof Pinki Sarelli on “The Latest • UJW Cape Town presents David Bloomberg, former • SFCC presents Prof Celine Bernstein on “Hormone the theatre or 13:00 at Oxford Shul parking for the mayor of Cape Town on “Cape Town Jewish Mayors”. bus (extra R50). Achievements in the World of Medicine - an Replacement - is it Necessary?” Update”. • Balfour Park Parkinson’s Disease Support Group • RCHCC and JHGC present the free exhibition, Wednesday (March 23) • UWJ Cape Town presents Prof Solly Benatar on “The meeting will be held in the Lighthouse Hall, St Luke’s “Pictures of Resistance” at 18:30, followed by the Limits of Medicine: Making End-of-Life Decisions”. Anglican Church, High Road, Orchards, at 10:00. • Second Innings presents Bobby Godsell on screening of “Saved by Deportation” at 19:30 - dona- Norman Doidge, MD, will speak about the discovery “Renewing the South African Dream”. tion R50. Friday (February 18) that the brain is neuroplastic, and that it can change Saturday evening (March 26) Monday (February 14) • UZLC presents Naomi Musiker, on “Jewish its structure and function. People with Parkinson’s Newspapers and their Role in South Africa”. Disease, their families, friends and caregivers are • SAZF is holding their 47th conference today and • UJW Johannesburg presents Phillip Altbeker on welcome. Contact Rosemary Burke on (011) 640- tomorrow. Guest speakers: Harvard academic “Going to the Movies” at 09:30. Sunday (February 20) 3919 or [email protected] Prof Alan Dershowitz; John Howard - former • Second Innings presents Bronwyn Feldwick-Davis • Jewish Learning Centre is starting a course Sunday (February 27) prime minister of Australia; and Col Richard “Towards a Meaningful Life” on six consecutive and Angie Pape on “Reach for a Dream”. Kemp - former commander of British forces in Mondays. Venue: Clive M Beck Auditorium – Great • RCHCC presents “The Jews of Japan” by Hugh • Second Innings presents Tali Nates on “Portraits of Afghanistan. Enquiries: (011) 645-2510 or Park Synagogue. Time: 19:45 – 21:15. Fee: R200 for Raichlin at 19:30. Cost R70. Moral Choices: Perpetrators, Bystanders and [email protected]. THE BRIDGE LOUNGE by Jeff Sapire CROSSWORD NO 197 BY LEAH SIMON EXPERTS ALWAYS like to run off their long suits Partner can still use Stayman if necessary, ACROSS: 16. Nothing tried by head of newspaper when short of a trick or two for their contract. but sequences like 1NT – 3NT are always 1. Dogs upset by idols (4) (6) Sometimes it may not help at all, but on many much tougher to defend. Opening 5422 hands 3. Admirer in palace finds premier SA golf 18. Rosen upset by Scandinavian lan- occasions it’s amazing what problems it can cause. 1NT is a big winner, but it’s a good idea to resort (8) guage (5) Discarding is one of the toughest areas of have at least one of the doubletons stopped. 8. Los Angeles returns like this, too (4) 19. Skyline Propane Users’ Group defence, where often the defenders are simply not On to the play: Declarer put up the king of 9. Envy makes Joely use this badly (8) (abbrev) (4) sure what to hang on to, or what to signal - it’s a diamonds and weighed up his chances. He 11. It made 17 Across go to war on 7 thin line between assisting partner with one’s dis- could try leading a heart to sneak his ninth December 1941 (5, 7) SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD NO 196 cards while at the same time giving declarer vital trick, which would work against many play- 13. Good man beams – but wanders off (6) information. ers (East would have to avoid the routine “2nd 14. The rat disturbed by one who makes ACROSS: Pubs; 3. Lumbered; 8. Nabs; 9. Firstly, note South’s opening bid of 1NT (15-17). hand low”) but as this was an expert game the headgear (6) Stashing; 11. Safe and sound; 13. Estate; chances of getting away with it were slim - the South dealer, EW vul. 17. Altogether, conditions for a country (6, 14. Sniper; 17. Landing strip; 20. Distaste; defenders would surely grab the ace of hearts NORTH 6) 21. Inez; 22. Ringside; 23. Apes. and take four diamond tricks. K842 20. Appears to pur before harbours (8) DOWN: 1. Punished; 2. Baby fat; 4. So he decided to run the club suit to see if QJ8 21. Get a French refusal soon (4) Untidy; 5. Bassoonist; 6. Reign; 7. Digs; 10. anything would happen. Well, it did - East had K2 22. Er, energy found in foliage (8) Parted ways; 12. Trapezes; 15. Parsnip; 16. to find four discards. The first three were easy KJ82 23. Bad case for champions (4) United; 18. Arson; 19. Oder. WEST EAST – the nine of hearts followed by the three (sig- nalling the ace) and then the queen of spades 765 QJ109 DOWN: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 (showing the spade sequence). 765 A93 1. It certainly supports But on the fifth club East was in big trouble, AJ96 108743 one’s aims (4, 4) squeezed in three suits. He had to hang on to 643 7 2. Some French couple in the ace of hearts, and a second spade discard 8 9 SOUTH anguish (7) would have given declarer four tricks there. A3 4. Spare nasturtiums con- 10 So he discarded a small diamond, but now K1042 ceal demarcated sports declarer could play on hearts, with the Q5 grounds (6) 11 defence only able to take another three dia- AQ1095 5. Northern bracelets bro- mond winners. 12 ken by participants in West North East South The late Terence Reese once commented ritual (10) 1NT about playing off one’s long suit. He said that 13 14 15 6. Freedom for Swahilis (5) P 2C P 2H even if there wasn’t material gain - as was 7. Story loses right to play- 16 P 3NT All pass Opening lead: D6 here - one could often gauge what was trou- things (4) bling the defenders. 10. Avoid publicising the- 17 18 In days gone by most people would have opened atre - especially “Much this hand 1C, rebidding 1H if possible, or else 2C Every Tuesday (Intermediate) and Wednesday 19 Ado About Nothing”! over a 1S response. But the modern style now is (Advanced) I run bridge workshops from 10:00 (4, 2, 4) 20 21 often to begin with 1NT instead, even though the – 12:00 at the Great Park Shul – alternating 12. Gifts for attendance, we hand is semi-balanced. play hands one week and a bidding lecture on hear (8) The thinking behind this is that a) it avoids hav- the other. Corner Glenhove Road and 4th 15. Bird destroys Cain on ing to rebid a five card suit and b) it hides the Avnue, Houghton. For more information, e- 22 23 famous shipwreck (7) shape of the hand from the opponents. mail me at [email protected]) 11 - 18 February 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 15 LIFTS LIFTS GENERAL ACCOMMODATION TO LET/SHARE LIFTS AVAILABLE GLENHAZEL For all age groups and to all HOUSE PLANS FLAT TO RENT areas in Jhb, Sandton and DRAWN & Bright; airy; spacious north fac- Airport. ing 3 bedroom flat now available Contact Johnny DESIGNED with large balcony. Recently ren- 082-328-3070 or ovated. Main bedroom en-suite 082-876-9042 NEW HOUSES with separate dressing room. Classifieds RENOVATIONS Asking R7000 p/m including 2 To book your classified notice or advert contact: Tel (011) 023-8160, Fax 086-634-7935, email: [email protected] ADD-ON ROOMS covered parking bays BATHROOMS Call (011) 485- 3369 KITCHENS IMPORTANT NOTICE - THE JEWISH REPORT RUNS ADVERTS IN THE CLASSIFIED SECTION GARAGES IN GOOD FAITH, HOWEVER WE WOULD LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW WE CANNOT BE AIRPORT SERVICE HOUSE TO SHARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE QUALITY OF SERVICES OFFERED AND CLAIMS MADE. JHB SUBMITION TO COUNCIL SEA POINT HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED ADVERT: 1. Only adverts sent via email to [email protected] will be accepted. Totally renovated home to Reliable, GEOFF LEVINTHAL 2. You will be advised on cost & payment details. 3. Payment is prior to the advert appearing. share, large bed en-suite. Reasonable Rates! 083-226-6354 4. DEADLINE for BOOKING and PAYMENT is Tuesday 12pm. If deadline is missed the advert Serviced twice p/week. Contact Arnold, will appear (when payment is received) in the next edition. Our banking details: SA Jewish Report, 082-447-0185 SMILE-LEE'S LIFTS Incl: DStv, servicing, pool & Nedbank Randburg, Account Number: 1984 514 865, Branch Code: 198405 011-454-1193 A reliable lift service. garage. Avail March for 1 Specialising in lifts to and from person. Lovely garden. PERSONAL NOTICES airports, shops, appointments, Must like animals. R5 000 LOOKING FOR WORK casinos and courier. CONDOLENCES per month plus 1/3rd Retired man very presentable Airport Call Charna 083-391-6612 Extensive Experience in Steel, seeks lady 60’s or 70’s for long- household costs. Timber and Manufacturing. term relationship. Shuttle PHOTOGRAPHY Please apply to Walter PHONE LOUISE Available for night shifts. Condolence Tranfers 072-117-9175 from R150 DALES PHOTOGRAPHIC 082-568-8732 Our very deepest sympathy to Let me capture your special Reasonable, Reliable CALL DENNIS 071-413-0608 Barbara, Grant, Gina, Adam THANKS event forever! FULLY FURNISHED and Daniel on the very sad SAM Any Simcha - Bar/Batmitzvahs loss of your beloved husband BINKIN (011) 728-5219 Call 072-144-7088 APARTMENT and cherished father Sincere thanks and gratitude are extended to family; friends and 083-627-8516 TO LET PROFESSIONAL & BUSINESS IVAN LEVY the community for your support A-TAXI SERVICE following the recent passing of ACCOUNTING OFFICER • 800 m walk to Let Warren Pogorelsky chauffeur You’re all in our hearts our beloved Rea. The over- BOOKKEEPING Strathavon Chabad. and thoughts whelming number of calls; mes- you to your destination in Jo’burg TAX & STATUTORY RETURNS REPAIRS • 2 bedrooms, mes, sages; visits and meals; as well and back only R100 round trip. JN ACCOUNTING SERVICES second shower. 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It’s the most challenging point, as the turn Mark Wolff JOHANNESBURG brings you into strong headwinds for 36 km back to transition and there is no escaping this. I LAST year was placed 11th overall and third in Aside from the strong desert winds on the way back January in Israel’s Ironman - Israman - category in the climbing just seems never-ending and it becomes Eilat, in the third toughest Ironman competition in a real mental test of determination. T2 awaits at the the world. top of one last long steep climb and it’s a pleasurable Chosen as one of the top ten best Ironman distance sight to know you are on the final leg home. races by Triathlete Magazine, Eilat in Israel hosts The run course is beautiful, starting at the top of a what has well become known as one of the toughest mountain and descending quite steeply for 15 km into 70.3 and full Ironman distance races in the world. the port of Eilat. The event which has been running every January With the sea and Jordan mountains in the back- for more than 10 years, has seen some great names ground, the pain disappears for a while, with this putting their endurance abilities to the test, includ- breathtaking view. Run times can be extremely fast ing Eddie Merckx and most recently Lothar Leder due to the gradient, but very tough on the quads due the first man ever to break eight hours for an to the downhill gradient. The run flattens out for the Ironman event. It’s a very well organised event and last six km or so and then heads towards the sea. the atmosphere is absolute magic. This is recommended for South African triathletes The event offers two courses which are along the because: same route, one being a 70.3 distance and the other a Firstly it’s a brilliant test of strength and an excel- full Ironman. lent base in gearing towards Ironman South Africa as The swim starts at first light in batches along the the event takes place in January each year. shores of the Red Sea, Ironman distance going off From a cost perspective, El Al Israel Airlines do not first. charge for bicycle shipping; it’s FREE and they allow The swim finishes with one of the longest runs into 20kg of overweight. transition I have ever experienced, being around 450 It’s only an eight and a half hour flight into Israel metres into T1. There are two transition zones for and to Eilat an easy drive or very cheap flight. this event, the first being out the swim, and T2 lies 21 Accommodation includes ALL meals, so no addi- km away at the top of a mountain in the desert. tional costs The ride is the most gruelling part of the event, it It’s a solid well supported and well organised event, edges into a steep 19 kilometre climb, averaging and its growing each year. between 6 - 8 per cent from Eilat into the mountains, This was my second Israman. Last year. I managed going from sea level to 700 metres above sea level. a podium. This year was much tougher in the 40+ cat- The remainder of the ride takes place in the rolling egory. I am age 40. hills of the mountains that overlook Eilat and the I can highly recommend the event; it’s the most Arava valley, a region known for heavy gusts of beautiful desert scenic race you could ever do, with winds that can reach up to 60 kilometres per hour. the biggest challenge thrown in. Only the top athletes will achieve a sub 3 hour time The bike and run course, definitely require a for the 70.3 bike leg, and this year only six out of an reconnaissance beforehand; otherwise it will be a entire field of hundreds of competitors managed a total shock to the system. It’s such a beautiful race sub 3 hour. but needs to be experienced first hand. I will be mak- The turnaround point of the race for the 70.3 is at ing this a regular on my race calendar. Levy coaches Sela as new Israeli tennis star emerges JACK MILNER doubles. In the opening round they defeated second seeds Dustin Brown of Germany and ISRAEL’S DUDI Sela had a reasonable tour- Rogier Wassen of France 6-3 7-5 and then nament at the SA Tennis Open played at won through to the semifinals with a 6-7 Montecasino last week. The Israeli No 1 (1-7) 6-3 12-10 (champions tie-break) victory reached the second round of the singles over India’s Somdev Devvarman, the singles draw and along with Slovakian Karol Beck, finalist, and American David Martin. made the semifinals of the doubles. In the semis they went down to the The one thing he could say about his week American and Canadian combination of in Johannesburg is that in both singles and Jamie Cerretani and Adil Shamasdin 6-7 doubles, he ended up losing to the eventual (4-7) 4-6 but they no doubt rue the chances champions. In the singles he bowed out to they had in the 10th game of the opening South Africa’s Kevin Anderson, to whom he when they had three set points but failed to had not lost in two previous meetings. This convert. With the opening set in the bag any- time, especially at altitude, he failed to han- thing could have happened. dle the South African’s booming serve and It is interesting that Sela teamed up with went down 2-6 4-6. Beck as last year the Slovakian played with Doubles partner Beck was ironically Harel Levy to win the tournament. Levy Anderson’s next victim but the Slovakian/ tried to get in to this tournament but lost in Israeli combination fared far better in the the opening round of the qualifying event. Maccabi Junior Soccer trials success THE FIRST round of the Maccabi Gauteng The u-10s and-12s will play from 08:30 to Junior Soccer trials staged at Balfour Park 10:00 and the u-14s are from 10:30 to 12:00. in Johannesburg last Sunday, proved to be The support and enthusiasm from across a great success with some 200 youngsters all of the community was outstanding and it turning up for the event. definitely bodes well for Maccabi’s sporting The trials, for under-10, under-12 and future. Maccabi SA Chairman Cliff Garrun under-14 boys, were set up in order to summed up the day by saying: “The re- select one team per age group for the launch of Maccabi in our community is well upcoming provincial tour to Cape Town. under way.” Maccabi WP has also selected its teams. Convener of selection and convenér of From the initial 200 the squads will be Maccabi senior football, Ryan Kalk, said: “I trimmed to a maximum of 26 boys per age knew we had talent but today was such a group and those youngsters will be return- wonderful surprise. The future of Maccabi ing to Balfour Park this Sunday (February SA soccer is well looked after for a long time.” 13) for the final trials where 16 players will The final teams will be announced next be named in each team. week. FOR THE RECORD SOCCER TRIALS START AFTER SABBATH ON FEB 26 An editing mistake in a sports story in last week’s Jewish Report, has caused embarrass- ment all round. Announcing the times for the Maccabi soccer trials (18+) it was stated that it will take place on February 26 – a Saturday – from 08:00 until 21:30. In fact the tri- als on the Saturday start at 20:00, which is AFTER the Sabbath. We regret the error.