CHING YUN HU SHOWS BRILLIANT VIRTUOSIC SKILLS / 12 WRITING, BUT AN OVER- VINTAGE PIPPI STILL POPULATED STEALS HEARTS / 12 DESK / 13 Subscribe to our FREE epaper - go to www.sajewishreport.co.za

www.sajewishreport.co.za Friday, 8 April 2011 / 4 Nissan, 5771 Volume 15 Number 13 Pressure on Goldstone to repair his Report’s damage to PAGE 3, 8-9 PHOTO: ILAN OSSENDRYVER PHOTO:

Dr Clive Evian is a world expert on Aids and a tireless fighter IN THE FOREFRONT OF SOUTH against this pandemic which is wreaking havoc in . He is a pioneer in the surveillance, prevention and treatment of the AFRICA’S FIGHT AGAINST AIDS disease. He is a true builder of a better South Africa. SEE PAGE 11 UJ scampers to Travel in Mexico - friendly DAVIS: Criticising Israel Israel house prices limit BGU fallout / 4 haven for / 16 doesn’t make an enemy / 10 rise steadily / 5 YOUTH / 18-19 SPORTS / 24 LETTERS / 14 CROSSWORD & BRIDGE / 20 COMMUNITY BUZZ / 7 WHAT’S ON / 20 2 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 SHABBAT TIMES PARSHA OF THE WEEK April 8/4 Nissan April 9/5 Nissan Owen Metzorah Birds of peace Griffith; Starts Ends Ann Harris; 17:42 18:30 WORDS CREATE reality. The Hebrew and Rabbi word for speech, dibur, is the same word 18:10 19:05 Moshe for “thing”, davar. And so we read in this 17:27 18:16 Durban Silberhaft. 17:47 18:36 Bloemfontein week’s Torah reading that one who slan- PARSHAT 17:46 18:36 dered would be afflicted with a skin con- 17:38 18:28 East London dition that would render him a metzo- METZORAH rah. Rabbi Dovid Wineberg New cemetery plaques Our Sages point out that “Metzorah” Green and Sea Point Hebrew Congregation DAVID SAKS is composed of two words, “Motzi” PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED “rah”, extracts evil. Because not only did Published by the offender speak negatively about And yet this week’s Torah reading S A Jewish Report (Pty) Ltd, A SOMBRE past and hopeful new present, came together in someone, he brought out the negativity begins with the words: “This shall be PO Box 84650, Greenside, 2034 Mauritius last month as the island’s youthful Jewish commu- from a world of potential into the world the process of purifying the Metzorah.” Tel: (011) 023-8160 nity joined with international guests for remembrance and Fax: (086) 634-7935 of reality. The dibur made it into a davar. There is a process of healing, of commemoration; and celebration of the continuance of Printed by Caxton Ltd This is what made the Goldstone return, and perhaps Justice Goldstone’s Jewish life in the here and now. EDITOR - Geoff Sifrin Report so upsetting. While our enemies astounding editorial in the Washington Seventy years ago, some 1 670 Jewish refugees from Nazi- [email protected] kept slinging labels and accusations at Post titled “Reconsidering the Gold- held Europe were interned on Mauritius by the British colo- Sub-Editor - Paul Maree us in the hope that something will stick, stone Report on Israel and War nial authorities after they had been refused permission to Ed Co-ordinator - Barry Bilewitz no-one had the temerity to formally con- Crimes”, is the beginning of that [email protected] remain in Palestine. clude that Israel is pursuing a policy of process. Senior Reporter - Rita Lewis During the next five years, 127 of them died and were buried murdering civilians. That is, until In the opening paragraph, he asserts: [email protected] in a section of the St Martin’s cemetery on the island. The Richard Goldstone. “If I had known then what I know now, Sports Editor - Jack Milner cemetery was later handed over by Deed of Grant to the [email protected] Historically, evil ideologies were the Goldstone Report would have been a SAJBD, which has overseen its maintenance ever since. Books Editor - Gwen Podbrey named by their creators. The Nats different document.” Three new plaques were unveiled at the cemetery. The first Arts Editor - Robyn Sassen named , Hitler named the In a complete about-face of the was in memory of the late Dr Aaron Zwergbaum, a prominent [email protected] Final Solution, and American Report’s conclusions, he accepts “that leader of the Mauritius detainees, who was the liaison Youth Editor - Alison Goldberg “Slaveholders” approvingly spoke of the civilians were not intentionally targeted [email protected] between the detainees and the Zionist organisations in Israel “Institution of Slavery”. as a matter of policy” by Israel. Cape Town correspondent and in later years continued to be very active on their behalf. But while our enemies accuse Israel of Notwithstanding that Goldstone’s Moira Schneider: 021-794-4206 The second was unveiled by Ann Harris, and paid tribute to criminal “policies”, they resort to histor- reversal is a case of too little too late, his Pretoria correspondent her late husband, Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris Diane Wolfson: 082-707-9471 ical evils such as or apartheid to editorial is important for a number of The third plaque bore the wording, in Hebrew and English, Manager: Distribution name them. This is because they cannot reasons: of the traditional benediction recited by those who have not Britt Landsman find a name for them because there are 1. A belated retraction is better than [email protected] visited the cemetery for 30 days and more. It was dedicated by no such policies. no retraction, and in fact helps Israel Sales Executives - (011) 023-8160 Mauritian-born Geff Clency Geffroy, who discovered late in The Goldstone Report concluded prepare for any further conflicts. Britt Landsman: 082-292-9520 life that he was Jewish by birth (although he had already “con- “without a doubt” that Israel had delib- 2. By referring to action as ter- Manuela Bernstein: 082-951-3838 verted” prior to that) and has since become one of the local Murray Schoeman: 083-627-6670 erately targeted civilians, that is that she rorism, he clarifies the playing field. Jewish community’s most active supporters. Freelance Sales Executive pursued a policy of killing innocent peo- 3. By clearly affirming Israel’s right Marlene Bilewitz: 083-475-0288 ple, just because they were Palestinian. to self-defence and holding non-state Classified Sales Except that the Commission couldn’t actors to the same rules as nation states, [email protected] Dates for Yom Hazikaron find a name for such a policy, or who had Design and layout he levels that field. Frankie Matthysen instituted it - let alone when, or why, it A Metzorah on the way to healing was Nicole Cook was instituted. It was precisely this required to bring two birds as an offer- and Yom Ha’atzmaut Website departure from reality that succeeded in ing. The symbolism of (chirping) birds THE SA Zionist Federation, in a statement, explained the www.sajewishreport.co.za uniting almost every segment of Israeli represents the Metzorah’s obligation to dates set for Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut. Ilan Ossendryver society in condemning the Goldstone set the record straight and hopefully IC-Creations It said “the original published dates of Yom Hazikaron [email protected] Report’s central conclusion as a com- bring about reconciliation. and Yom Ha’atzmaut... were set at the request of the Beth Subscription enquiries plete falsehood, or worse a blood libel. While the Goldstone Report will in all Din according to certain considerations, but have been Avusa Publishing (Pty) Ltd Indeed, words create reality. For this likelihood continue to cause harm to amended with agreement from the Beth Din and the Chief Tel: 0860-13-2652 reason Prime Minister Benjamin Israel, and that is a “regret” that its Rabbi, to comply with the alternative dates set by Israel. OF DIRECTORS Netanyahu labelled the Goldstone author has to live with each day, Justice “Yom Hazikaron will be commemorated on Sunday Howard Feldman (Chairman), Issie Kirsh Report one of Israel’s top three strategic Richard Goldstone has the opportunity night May 8 and Yom Ha’atzmaut on Monday night May 9 (Deputy Chairman), Stan Kaplan, Marlene threats, and initiated a vigorous cam- now of healing through an ongoing Bethlehem, Russell Gaddin, and Tuesday May 10.” Norman Lowenthal, Bertie paign to respond to these malicious process of reconsideration. Lubner, Benjy Porter, Herby “conclusions”. By taking this message to where peo- Rosenberg, Howard It was also no surprise that many in ple are chirping - on the airwaves of Al- KASHRUT NOTICE Sackstein, Jason Valkin. the South African Jewish community Jazeera and CNN, in Geneva at the SOME PONCHOS TEQUILA VARIETIES KOSHER PAREV distanced themselves from their former Human Rights Council and the UN in KASHRUT proud son. I was the associate rabbi of New York - and at countless universities THE FOLLOWING “Ponchos 1910” coffee tequila varieties The following symbols will appear on the Sandton Shul at the time of Justice around the world, Richard Goldstone are now kosher parev, with the Beth Din logo: advertisements and/or advertising fea- Goldstone’s visit. While I strongly sup- can preach Israel’s fundamentally just • Blanco 43 per cent tures to indicate whether or not they are ported his right to attend shul, and the cause in a way that few others can. • Coffee 35 per cent kosher. Where no Kashrut mark appears • Reposado 40 per cent on an advert, the Jewish Report shul’s responsibility to ensure the safety Let us all learn the lesson of the awe- assumes no responsibility for the of all worshippers, I also chose to deny some power of words and the damage “Patron xo Café” tequila, previously approved, after a Kashrut status of that establishment or him any acknowledgement in that they could cause. Let us be willing to thorough investigation, is no longer approved. advertiser: Friday night sermon - an approach that reconsider a sour relationship and take The Beth Din also announced that Beacon Fizzers - NK Non-Kosher K Kosher was overwhelmingly supported by the active steps - the “bird offering” - to apple and naartjie flavours, are kosher parev. Other kosher Fizzers flavours are Blue Buzz, Cola Float, Where no symbols appear, consult the congregation. improve it. Beth Din Kosher Guide or contact the “His residence shall be outside the It’s no coincidence that the Hebrew Cream Soda, Grape, Orange Float, and Strawberry. advertiser. camp,” decrees the Torah of the word for bird – tzippor - has the numer- Please note that only “ready to drink” Powerade (Forest Force, Island Burst, Jagged Ice, Mountain Blast, Naartjie, Advertisements and editorial copy from Metzorah. It is the natural consequence ical equivalent (gematria) of the outside sources do not neccessarily reflect of one who divides others, that he him- Hebrew word for peace, Shalom. Orange) are Kosher. The concentrates (any flavours) are the views of the editors and staff. self becomes isolated. Shabbat Shalom! not approved.

Trevor Stamelman: 082-608-0168 Geoff Lees 082-551-9314 Tel: (011) 885-3742 [email protected] www.stamelmanproperties.co.za

“Extraordinary Service Extraordinary Trust” GRESSWOLD - NEW RELEASE HIGHLANDS NORTH: NEW RELEASE ‘THE GAP’ LYNDHURST: NEW RELEASE

ON SHOW: SUNDAY 14:00 – 17:00 ON SHOW: SUNDAY 14:00 – 17:00 VIEW BY APPOINTMENT Varonne - Waverley Road. Simplex 2 bed, 2 bath, tiled open- 11th Avenue. 3 recep, eat-in kitchen, 3 bed, 1 1/2 bath, 2 bed, 2 bath, duplex townhouse in small secure complex, plan lounge & dining room leading to balcony, with views. inside parking, small garden & staff accom. walk to shops, shuls, schools. Offers from R650 000, rental option at R5 500 p/m. R750 000 Asking R650 000. ROUXVILLE: NEW RELEASE ORANGE GROVE: NEW RELEASE ORANGE GROVE: NEW RELEASE

VIEW BY APPOINTMENT VIEW BY APPOINTMENT Open-plan tiled recep, modern kitchen, 4 bed, 2 1/2 bath, VIEW BY APPOINTMENT Stunning, tiled recep, flowing indoor/outdoor living, 4 bed, 2 under-cover patio, garden, staff accom, secure inside park- 3 recep, eat-in kitchen, 3 bed, 2 bath, inside parking, bath, new modern kitchen, pool & outside undercover patio ing in small complex. Asking early R2 mil. garden, pool & cottage. Offers from R900 000 and braai area. Inside parkinge.From R1,3 mil - asking more! WIN AN ISLAND HOLIDAY & OTHER GREAT PRIZES - VISIT WWW.STAMELMANPROPERTIES.CO.ZA FOR DETAILS 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 3 AROUND THE WORLD Pressure on Goldstone to NEWS IN BRIEF ROSS: TURMOIL SHARPENS ISRAELI NEEDS FOR SECURITY help his flawed Report GUARANTEES WASHINGTON (JTA) - The recent produce,” he said, and then he MOIRA SCHNEIDER edly based on a telephone conver- Middle East turmoil has sharp- cited Israeli-Palestinian talks as CAPE TOWN sation between Deputy Israeli ened Israeli needs for tangible an example. Prime Minister Eli Yishai and security guarantees in exchange Ross reiterated the Obama AN OPINION piece authored by Justice Goldstone. It quotes Yishai for concessions to the Palestinians, administration position opposing Mr Justice Richard Goldstone in as telling Israel Army Radio that Dennis Ross has said. Palestinian attempts to obtain last Friday, the judge had promised to take Ross, President Obama’s top recognition of statehood before has cast the media spotlight once additional steps to retract the UN Middle East adviser, told the Anti- striking a deal with Israel. again on what has become known report, something Justice Gold- Defamation League’s annual lead- "We have consistently made it as the Goldstone Report, the stone vigorously denies. ership conference in Washington clear that the way to produce a result of a United Nations Human In a statement to Associated on Monday that security guaran- Palestinian state is through nego- Rights Council fact-finding mis- Press, the judge says that he was tees sought by Israel toward a tiations, not through unilateral sion into the of 2008/’09 called on Monday by Yishai who peace deal with the Palestinians declarations, not through going chaired by the former South informed him that he and the gov- were critical, “particularly during to the UN," he said. African jurist. ernment of Israel were “apprecia- a time of change”. Ross said the US-Israel defence The SA Jewish Report managed tive” of the article that appeared The Palestinians, in turn, relationship was “better than to speak to Justice Goldstone, but in The Washington Post. PHOTOGRAPH: UN PHOTOGRAPH: “need to see that they can have an ever”, with greater depth and he would not go any further than “I responded by thanking the independent state that is viable substance than under previous his comments in the Washington But in the Washington Post op- deputy prime minister for his call and contiguous” as well as “signs administrations. Post last week Friday. ed he again took Israel to task for and stated that my concern was to the occupation is receding”. He quoted from remarks two There now is strong pressure on not wanting to co-operate with the work for truth, justice and human Ross outlined the Obama weeks ago by Robert Gates dur- him to take steps to void the fact-finding mission at the time. rights. He then said that his gov- administration’s approach to the ing the US defence secretary's flawed Report, but on Monday he The SAZF said it was “encour- ernment would like to invite me to “Arab Spring”, the push for visit to Israel. indicated that he would not do so. aged” and felt vindicated by the visit Israel to see conditions there democracy roiling the Middle “I cannot recall a time during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin article. “The SAZF has always with my own eyes. East: Assist those governments my public life when our two coun- Netanyahu and other senior been of the opinion that the origi- “I said that I would like to do so. ready to transition to democracy tries have had a closer defence Israeli politicians, have demanded nal Goldstone Report was biased I explained that my present com- and oppose those that increase relationship,” Gates had said. that the UN rescind the Report. In and based on conjecture and spec- mitments would not make that oppression in the face of protest, “The US and Israel are co-operat- South Africa, Avrom Krengel, ulation rather than on actual evi- possible before July. I ended the sometimes with military force, as ing closely in areas such as mis- chairman of the South African dence.” conversation by expressing my with Libya. sile defence technology, the Joint Zionist Federation (SAZF), has It goes on to say that the “false- love for Israel. Ross said that the unrest Strike Fighter, and in training also echoed the demand that hoods” in the original report had “The deputy prime minister sweeping the region could result exercises such as Juniper Goldstone should now go further caused “incalculable and irre- spoke in Hebrew and that was in democratic regimes struc- Stallion – co-operation and sup- than this “retraction” by “repudi- parable damage” to Israel’s repu- interpreted for me. There was turally more likely to ensure port that ensures that Israel will ating” the Report in its entirety. tation and that of its armed absolutely no discussion about peace with Israel - but could also continue to maintain its qualita- Justice Goldstone writes, inter forces. “While Justice Goldstone’s the Goldstone Report in the call,” prove a bonanza for Islamists tive military edge.” alia, that further investigation has statement may go some way to Justice Goldstone stressed. hoping to exploit the turmoil. Separately, Defence News shown that Gazan civilians were limiting the harm caused… the In a telephone interview with He implied that progress on the reported on Monday that Israel not intentionally targeted as a SAZF reiterates its call to him AP, Justice Goldstone, who is Israeli-Palestinian front would and the United States are plan- matter of Israeli policy, contrary to repudiate the report in its based at in help facilitate the former sce- ning a “massive exercise” that to the Report’s findings in a situa- entirety.” Palo Alto, California, said that he nario. Democrats in the region would allow both countries to tion where the mission had “no In a further development, the did not plan to seek nullification “need to see that negotiations function as a wartime joint task evidence on which to draw any Jerusalem Post online edition on of the Report, describing Yishai’s cannot only take place, they can force. (JTA) other reasonable conclusion”. Monday carried a story purport- claims to the contrary as “false”. 4 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 AROUND THE WORLD UJ scampers to limit BGU fallout ALISON GOLDBERG was engaged in an academic termination of the MOU. NEWS IN BRIEF boycott of Israel). “The UJ administration allowed this CARTER SAYS HE MET GROSS, PRESSED FOR THE FALLOUT continues from “This termination of the matter to become politicised and thereby HIS RELEASE the University of Johan- MOU will take effect on April undermined its own academic integrity in nesburg’s Senate vote to sever 1, 2011. The decision was the process. WASHINGTON - Former President Jimmy formal ties with Ben-Gurion made because we believe the “As for the willingness of UJ now to Carter on his visit to Cuba met with jailed University of the Negev. memorandum of understand- allocate resources or draw up contracts American contractor Alan Gross and said he South African Associates of ing unnecessarily politicised for further research, BGU’s official believed Gross was "innocent of any serious Ben-Gurion University Executive Director our research engagements. response is that UJ has failed to honour an crime". Brenda Stern (pictured right), reports that “The resolution and our subsequent existing contract on the grounds of politi- Carter met with Gross on March 30 at an undis- worldwide condemnation of UJ is growing statements have been categoric that aca- cal expediency. closed location, according to reports. for the university’s betrayal of academic demics and researchers are entitled to con- “Any attempts to salvage that relation- Carter had said a day earlier that he would dis- freedom. tinue their research engagements with ship are a smoke and are rejected cuss Gross' case with Cuban officials, but said “Scholars for Peace in the Middle East BGU and/or any other colleagues if they entirely.” that was not the reason for his visit. (SPME), which includes 41 Nobel Lau- so desire. We view this as part of their aca- Stern reports that UJ Senate members "We have spoken to some officials about Mr reates, has issued a statement that has demic freedom, a constitutional right that present during the vote, have since con- Gross, but I am not here to take him out of the already been signed by 3 300 academics we actively support and defend. tacted SAABGU citing serious concerns country," Carter said on Tuesday. around the world calling for UJ to “If this research requires a contract to with the process including scrutiny of the Gross, 61, was convicted and sentenced to 15 its decision. It rejects UJ’s boycott action, legally define rights and responsibilities of ballots, the possible voting by Senate years in prison earlier this month for crimes which it says undermines academic free- all parties in the research engagement, members who do not have voting rights, against the state. Cuban authorities detained dom and calls for academics to boycott UJ.” then UJ’s administration would develop and the failure to table alternative resolu- Gross in late 2009 on his way out of the country, The US-based body has a membership of and sign such a contract as per our delega- tions as required by due process. saying he was a spy. nearly 55 000 university and college profes- tion of authority.” Part of SPME’s mission statement, Carter met on Tuesday with President Raul sors, researchers, administrators, teach- But this is not the de jure relationship at aside from striving for peace in the Middle Castro and other Cuban officials. Washington had ers, librarians and students on more than issue. Stern says BGU’s and SAABGU’s East as its name implies, is for “a world in encouraged Carter to lobby on behalf of Gross. 3 500 campuses worldwide. position on UJ‘s decision is very clear. which Israel exists as a sovereign Jewish Carter, who is well known for his activism on “Further, Harvard Law Professor Alan “The UJ administration allowed the boy- State within secure borders and for her behalf of human rights, was on a private visit to Dershowitz, a SPME task force member cotters and encouraged them through its neighbours to achieve their legitimate the island nation to discuss ways to improve US- signatory, is also leading an initiative to actions to create the impression that they peaceful aspirations. Cuba relations, according to reports. On Monday call on academics worldwide to isolate UJ,” were acting with the sanction of the UJ “Our mission is to inform, motivate and he met with Cuban Jewish leaders and visited the she adds. administration. encourage faculty to use their academic Patronato Jewish Centre and Temple Beth Back home, UJ itself has redoubled its “At no time prior to the decision being skills and disciplines on campus, in class- Shalom. efforts to mitigate the fallout. From prom- made in Senate did the administration dis- rooms, and in academic publications to Gross' family and State Department officials, ising last week to allocate resources to tance itself from the call for an academic develop effective responses to ideological say Gross was in the country on a US Agency for research by BGU and UJ, it now says it will boycott. In fact it allowed them to use the distortions, including anti-Semitic, anti- International Development contract to help the develop and sign legal contracts for it. UJ logo and name in all their material and Zionist, and anti-Muslim slanders, that country's 1 500 Jews communicate with other UJ deputy vice-chancellor for Research, correspondence. poison debate and work against peace… Jewish communities using the Internet. The main Innovation and Advancement, Professor “The boycotters themselves have stated “In a time when faculty members sym- Jewish groups in Cuba have denied any contact Adam Habib (pictured left), issued a state- that the so-called “UJ-BGU report” was pathetic to, or merely suspected of being with, or knowledge of, Gross or the programme. ment to the SA Jewish Report this week in commissioned by members of the UJ sympathetic to Israel may be subject to Gross is in ill health. His daughter has breast the absence of UJ’s vice chancellor and administration. Professor Alan Bond, hostility and intimidation, we also serve cancer and his mother was diagnosed recently principal, Professor Ihron Rensburg. from the University of California Berkeley, as a network for mutual support. with cancer, as well. While denying UJ was taking any fur- detailed in a public meeting hosted by UJ’s “SPME welcomes scholars from all dis- Cuba and the United States have not had diplo- ther steps, he said: “The senate resolution Sociology and Anthropology Department ciplines, faith groups and nationalities matic relations since the 1960s. The US has eco- was clear as was UJ’s vice-chancellor and on April 16, before the Senate vote, how who share our desire for peace and our nomic and financial sanctions in place against principal, Professor Ihron Rensburg’s Adam Habib had been personally involved commitment to academic freedom, aca- the island nation. (JTA) statement. (This included a denial that UJ in the BDS campaign that resulted in the demic integrity, and honest debate.” 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 5 Steady increase in Israeli house Unheard of that an prices forecast army warns its ALISON GOLDBERG Firzt enemy beforehand PHOTOGRAPH: ILAN OSSENDRYVER Realty’s Solly STORY AND PHOTO BY LAUREN SHAPIRO “THERE IS no bubble in the Israeli real estate market” Zaslansky DURBAN declares Shlomo Grofman, chairman of private Israeli greets equity firm, Faire Fund. HE HAD no allegiance to Israel; he was According to the man known as “Mr Real Estate” in Shlomo not Jewish - but he would do everything Israel, the average price of homes will continue to grow Grofman possible to ensure “that lies are coun- by three to five per cent in 2011, “which is good growth.” of Faire tered”, said Col Richard Kemp CBE (pic- After double digit prices increases for six consecutive Fund. tured), during his visit to Durban last quarters since Q3 2009, the Bank of Israel warned of a week. risk of a bubble in November. ments, land is leased from government for 49 years, com- A large audience gathered to listen to On December 22 (Bloomberg) it noted “preliminary plicating transactions. the man who stood up for Israel at the signs” of a slowing in price expansion, thanks to tighter Taking a long-term view of the apartment market, UN Human Rights Council, stating that Colonel Richard Kemp requirements for mortgages and the freeing up of more Grofman’s research shows construction starts of 30 000 during Operation Cast Lead in Gaza in land for development by the government. per annum since 2003 against annual demand for 45 000 2008-9, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) delivers his address. Buyers, for example, now have to put down a deposit of new apartments. did more to safeguard the rights of civil- between 30 to 40 per cent. “These market conditions caused diminutions of avail- ians in a combat zone than any other army in the history of war- According to Grofman, the average price of homes in able inventories for sale. Over the last 10 years the supply fare. real terms (after inflation of 2,8 per cent) rose 13,7 per of new apartments for sale has constantly decreased as a Kemp spoke of the difficulties Western armies face in fighting cent in 2010 and 12 per cent in 2009. result of government policy not to rezone agricultural guerrilla insurgents like the Taliban in Afghanistan or Hamas in But as he points out, these figures belie price spikes in land for construction. Current inventories (of available Gaza, who do not abide by the rules of war. central areas such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The land) will last for seven months.” Suicide attacks and the use of innocent civilians as human Central Bureau of Statistics recorded between Q4 2008 to According to the CBS, there were 9 370 apartments for shields, are only some of the challenges faced. Q3 2010 nominal growth of 46 per cent and 30 per cent, sale in August last year - the lowest supply of apartments In spite of this problematical situation, he listed the unprece- respectively. for many years. dented measures taken by the IDF to warn civilians to evacuate As at Q3 2010, average prices in Tel Aviv were ILS 1,778 Where Grofman says rentals are booming with expect- areas about to be attacked, including dropping around a million million (US$499,245) and in Jerusalem ILS 1,42 million ed yields of between 4 to 8 per cent, the Global Property leaflets and making many thousands of phone calls to individual (US$398,216). Guide recently found rental yields have not risen signifi- targets, as well as radio broadcasts which – by sacrificing the ele- Grofman points out that over the past two years house cantly over the past few years. ment of surprise – put the IDF missions and soldiers at greater prices have doubled. Solly Zaslansky, financial director of Firzt, says a pos- risk. Faire Fund, in collaboration with its South African sible explanation is that the average Israeli family can In addition, soldiers were given discretion to abort missions if marketer Firzt Realty, on March 1 launched its portfolio only afford between ILS5 000 – 6 000 per month, given its they felt that the civilian mortality risk was too great. of 1 500 luxury tower apartments in central Israel at the income of US$2 000 per month. In the heat of battle, mistakes did happen - due to human error, Melrose Arch Hotel in Johannesburg. While Grofman will not be drawn on a long-term out- technological failure and poor judgement. But these were not war Prices range from ILS 1,5 million to ILS 10 milllion in its look on prices: “anything can happen” he says, crimes, said Kemp. seven projects. These are located in Tel Aviv (two), Ramat Bloomberg quoted the Bank of Israel as saying on “All of us can play our part in this global conspiracy by know- Gan, Jerusalem, Ra’anana, Petah Tikva and Ashdod (due October 7 last year that apartment prices will fall “in the ing the facts, by supporting Israel’s right to exist, disputing to start construction in 18 months’ time). long term as a result of higher borrowing costs”. lies, educating people and putting our case forward at every For South African buyers the company is providing The news service also quoted Excellent Investments opportunity.” apartments complete with stoves, washing machines, Ltd’s chief economist, Shlomo Moaz, foreseeing a drop in The KwaZulu-Natal Zionist Council, with the assistance of the dryers and air-conditioners. The company will also allow property prices by the middle of this year. South African Zionist Federation, brought Kemp to Durban to two buyers to purchase an apartment. “He was one of two economists in a Bloomberg survey share his message with the community. The beauty of Faire Fund’s portfolio is that it is free- of 10 to correctly forecast an increase in the key interest He is currently collaborating on a book condemning accusations hold and in central Israel. In many other new develop- rate of 0,75 per cent in August 2010,” Bloomberg reported. of Israel as an apartheid state (expected on the shelves in 2012). 6 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 SOCIAL SCENE

Rita Lewis [email protected] Cantors Braun and Sher provide Barry Braun and Ezra Sher thrill the audience with their musical talents and interaction. top entertainment Dinky Braun with a STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY well as everyone involved, for their bouquet of flowers RITA LEWIS efforts and said the money would go from the Cape Jewish Zelda Rabkin and Ruth a long way in assisting the organi- Seniors. Goldman. IF ANYONE wishes to employ a sation to continue to provide added duo to fill up a hall of 250 people necessities for their members. with many others willing to pay to The programme was varied, sit on the stairs and all of them encompassing “songs for all sea- clapping and singing to a host of sons”, proving that the audience well-known songs, Jewish and oth- had been well read by the duo who Director of the Cape Jewish Seniors, Diana Sochen erwise, then Cantors Barry Braun sang some old time Jewish with Dinky, Barry and Lester Braun and Ezra Sher. and Ezra Sher are definitely the favourites like “Shehecheyanu”, couple to use to entertain everyone. “Halleluca, la Olam”, “Der Rebbe Both men are popular chazzanim Eli Melech” and “Jerusalem of at their respective congregations. Gold” which were sung in Yiddish Cantor Braun has up to now been and Hebrew with the audience with the Milnerton Congregation enjoying their participation in the Sam and in Cape Town and Cantor Sher chorus lines and of course clapping Accompanist of the event, Jo-Mari Thorne, who is Reeva with Pine Street Shul in to the beat. Johannesburg. There was also a selection of also Barry Braun’s musical coach. Chait wait With their warm personalities, Italian excerpts from the operas, as for the unique rapport and well-estab- well as some old favourites like “O concert to lished musical talents, this week’s Solo Mio” and “Nessun Dorma” . begin. concert held at the SABC recording With their dark looks and suave Hall on Sea Point’s seafront was an manner, it was hard to believe that absolute pleasure to attend, parti- the two cantors were not Italian! cipate in and to come away with the At the end of the concert, Marcia satisfied feeling of an evening well Raymond presented Dinky Braun spent. with a bouquet of flowers for her The director of the Cape Jewish dedication to the society and efforts Seniors, Diana Sochen, to whom and interest in creating such a suc- the proceeds of the evening were cessful event - words which were Claudine presented, said she was thrilled reiterated by her son Barry who Braun with that the event had been so well thanked his mother for her con- Michael Cohen with Ivor Joffe and David Gordon, her hus- attended and so well received. stant “unconditional support in all the chazzan and choirmaster of the Marais Road band Barry. She thanked the two singers as his endeavours”. Shul in Sea Point. 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 7

to a toothed wooden wheel. It could brated by the entire community.” COMMUNITY BUZZ make a loud rattling noise. During To be continued. LIONEL SLIER the Purim service we rattled the 082-444-9832, fax: 011-440-0448, gragers whenever Haman the POTCHESTROOM Wicked was mentioned in the read- [email protected] ing of the Book of Esther. The chil- This town is in the old Western dren would go into impassioned Transvaal, now the North-West VOLKSRUST grager twirling and rattling. Province. It was named after the “Carnival Novelty was still in Boer leader Andries Potgieter. The From Cyril Nathan, Melbourne. Johannesburg in 1978 when I left “chef” part is from the fact that he Australia. South Africa and went on aliyah. I was the leader and “stroom” from wonder if it is still there in Plein the nearby Mooi River. It was estab- “I was surfing the web and came Street or Jeppe Street or President lished in 1838 and was, in fact, the across your Volksrust message Street. Perhaps Bertha or Minnie or first municipality in the Transvaal. about the Lazarus and Fine fami- Alice Adler or Barney or Selwyn or lies. I came from the dorp and was Claire Rush or Effie or Alec and THE ORELOWITZ FAMILY born there in 1949 and also had my Benny could enlighten us.” barmitzvah in the Volksrust Shul. From David Sandler of Perth who By Fay Oppenheim (Canada), sent in “In fact, I went to school with Sam sends out a weekly newsletter by her mother, Bertha Orelowitz of Lazarus’ sons and with Mosey around the world about former-chil- Johannesburg: Fine’s daughter and still keep in dren from Orangia Children’s Home contact with them. I remember the in Cape Town and Arcadia in “Many years have percolated by Stocks, Zulmans, Rafels, Sedelskys, Johannesburg. since I left my childhood home and the sweet factory, Abe Levine who with each passing decade I have owned the bakery and his son Eli, BLOEMFONTEIN learnt to appreciate the secure and who as you mentioned, was involved steady background that was my in the Gold Coin Exchange. From Leah Chabas United Hebrew springboard to move into the broad- “I’m not sure if you knew the Institutions of Bloemfontein: er world and to change continents. Brasch family (Doris the opera “I had a slightly unusual parental singer) and her late brother Jeff “The Bloemfontein community was background compared to some of who also lived in Melbourne. So, privileged to host Rabbi Moshe my peers. My father, Joe Orelowitz, when we got together we spoke a lot Silberhaft, country communities was one of the last Lithuanian immi- about the old Volksrust Jewish com- rabbi, and Mike Kushner at a grants to succeed in coming to South munity as well as other people that Shabbaton this past Shabbos. Africa, which was in 1927. He did not lived in and around the dorp. “Kushner conducted the Friday marry until he was well into his mid- “My parents were Jack and Betty evening service assisted by Yaron dle age and when he did marry, it Nathan who owned the Volksrust Perelmu, a local congregant. Rabbi was to a much younger South Hotel, which they bought from the Silberhaft’s drosha relating to the African-born Jewish woman, Ber- family who also owned the Charles- parsha of the week, was most tha, from Johannesburg. town Hotel. I’m not sure if you knew informative. “By the time of their marriage my my family. “The Saturday morning service father, having missed service in the “I now live in Melbourne and was conducted by Kushner, followed Allied Forces, had established a busi- have been here for 16 years, after by a brocha in the communal hall. ness in rural South Africa. He sold having lived in Durban, Empan- “The weekend concluded with daily provisions and building sup- geni, Pietermaritzburg and Johan- Rabbi Silberhaft officiating at the plies, whatever the farming and fish- nesburg.” unveiling of the tombstones in ing communities were looking for. [email protected] memory of the late David Baumann, “His building was not supplied a stalwart of the Bloemfontein com- with electricity and so provisions JOHANNESBURG munity and Peter Weil, a dedicated had to be carted out on the day they member of our community.” were needed, such as beef.” Arcadia Memories: By Michael To be continued. Perry Kotzen, an octogenarian BULAWAYO actor living in Sydney: JOHANNESBURG Shulamit Kagan continues: “The Jewish-owned shop in Presi- J J Juta came from Holland. He sold dent Street, ''Carnival Novelty'', sold “I think this is a good place to goods of all kinds and while he did indoor games and toys and sports describe the whole (then) Jewish not associate himself with the Jewish goods. The wife of one of the owners, community of Bulawayo. Admit- community, he maintained good rela- I cannot remember her name, was a tedly a great many members did not tions with his wife’s Jewish family, member of the Jewish Orphanage observe kashrut or Shabbat. whose family name, Marx, was in fact house committee, Her name could “On the other hand, there was a Mordechai. be Mrs Levy or Mossmorris; per- kosher butchery, a Hebrew nursery Juta founded the oldest book- haps Mannie or Freda or Alec or school - into which you had to regis- selling and publishing house in this Bertha can recall the name. ter your child when you were country and was the father of a lead- “Anyway, I remember one Purim expecting him/her - a Hebrew day ing lawyer, Sir Henry Juta. The firm that lady brought a box full of 'shop school and a cheder. is still prominent today as publish- soiled' toys to the Arc. Clippie and “There were three youth move- ers of legal and other textbooks. Markie and Tommy and I helped to ments and a number of charity • It is believed that Juta’s wife was carry the boxes from her car to the organisations - the Jewish Women’s related to , the founder of shul. As the children went into shul Benevolent Society, the Jewish Marxism, but no independent proof for the Purim service, we were each Communal League and the Union of could be found to authenticate this. given a toy by the good lady and Jewish Women, to mention a few. From The Herald Times. October Matron Sher; dolls and balls only “The Chevrah Kadisha (which is 1989. slightly damaged or slightly soiled, just as wonderful as ours here in wooden tools and utensils, paper South Africa) did their sacred work THE ‘BIG FIVE’ kites and cardboard dollhouses, for the dead and living with great mechano sets and rattles and efficiency and no fanfare. The “Big Five” for Johannesburg teething rings and jigsaw puzzles. “Yom Hashoah and Yom kugels are: Sandton City, Hyde Park, “There were many ‘'gragers’'. A Hazikaron were commemorated Killarney Mall, Rosebank and (new- grager was a wooden stick attached and Yom Hamatzmaut were cele- comer) Norwood Mall. 8 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS

A day of fools This may be end of Goldstone’s IT WAS on April Fool’s Day - April 1, 2011 - that Richard Goldstone’s op-ed appeared in the international career Washington Post, retracting the accusation his notorious report had made against Israel, of I’M SURE I’m not the only one current- League’s Abraham Foxman likewise war crimes in operation Cast Lead in Gaza – ly wrestling with the implications of saw the saga in part as being one of specifically, the intentional targeting of civil- Richard Goldstone’s effective repudia- BARBARIC “how a renowned jurist and member of ians. tion of the UN Report on the 2008-‘09 the Jewish community allowed himself His Washington Post article was so surpris- Gaza conflict that bears his name. YAWP to be used by enemies of the Jewish ing that some must have asked why a serious For Goldstone watchers, his about- state.” paper like the Washington Post would do some- David Saks face will have come as less of a surprise, Others are frankly puzzled, both by thing so outrageous as to publish such a con- since for some time now, he has been Goldstone’s acceptance of the poisoned trived piece. progressively distancing himself from chalice in the first place and now by his Did his retraction come from professional the whole process in his public pro- ings limited only to what was formally unexpected about-face. Whatever the integrity - an authentic desire to be true to his nouncements. presented to them? An effort could answers are, I would very much like to calling as a jurist, even when that involved Even when issuing the Report, in fact, surely have been made to consult the see our own Jewish community at least admitting serious error? Or did he buckle he was already qualifying its implica- official Israeli documentation, which making some kind of meaningful ges- under pressure from an outraged Jewish world tions, stressing that it was the product of was readily available. ture of acknowledgment. The criticism where ordinary, decent people who would nor- a fact-finding mission and not a judicial It must also be remembered that a of him from within our own ranks was mally not dream of doing such a thing, even investigation, and he would be happy to considerable part of the Report was very harsh, necessarily so perhaps, but threatened to make his attendance at his revise his views should additional infor- devoted to an exhaustive listing of real sometimes it became overly bitter and grandson’s barmitzvah in South Africa so mation come to the fore. or alleged human rights violation by all too often it sometimes degenerated unpleasant with protests, that he initially Well, notwithstanding Israel’s princi- Israel, without this being remotely bal- into wounding personal attacks. I’m decided not to come? pled refusal to participate in a process anced by a critique of Hamas’ vision not drawing any moral equivalence After the damage Goldstone’s report did to so overtly loaded against it from the and strategies of indiscriminate vio- here, but perhaps a little reciprocal Israel, the Jewish world now grapples with start, additional information has indeed lence. soul searching might be in order. how to relate to him. Some columnists in since “come to the fore”, primarily Goldstone himself is unlikely to have Israeli papers say his retraction is too little, through Israel itself carrying out thor- compiled this section himself; that will Overall, the dominant feeling should too late. Others say his retraction should be ough investigations into allegations of have been done for him by anti-Israel be one of relief. The Goldstone Report acknowledged as a difficult step and he should misconduct by the IDF during NGOs like , possi- represented a significant step forward be welcomed back into the fold. Operation Cast Lead. bly assisted by such overtly biased fel- for those seeking to criminalise Israel He was a bright star of South African Jewry, Based on this, Goldstone has revised low commissioners like Christine for exercising its legitimate right to evoking pride as he strode the international his Report’s damning central charge Chinkin - but in signing off the final self-defense. Locally, we saw it being stage performing complex tasks for the UN and that Israel targeted civilians as a matter product, he basically endorsed it. regularly invoked by anti-Israel radi- others, such as the International Criminal of strategy. That conclusion, he insists, All that and more is valid, but for the cals, whether in pressing for an arrest Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Like the was based on what evidence was avail- time being at least, it can be allowed to warrant to be issued against Tzipi pride once evoked in Afrikaners. able at the time. He laments the fact that fade into the background. The impor- Livni, in agitating successfully for the But his report brought him plummeting Israel did not use the opportunity to tant thing is that Goldstone has revised University of Johannesburg to break down from those heights to huge criticism present its case, the result of which it his conclusions in light of credible new its ties with Ben Gurion University, on among his own people - including SA Jewry - was effectively adjudged “guilty in evidence, as indeed he undertook to do university campuses and on innumer- from which angry personal attacks on him pro- absentia”. if necessary, even at the time when the able occasions in the media. Now, at a voked high-profile jurists such as former Chief Goldstone’s critics will have much to Report was issued. stroke, it has been rendered all but use- Justice and George Bizos say on that, of course. Why was the tes- This cannot have been easy to do; he less as a propaganda weapon and we to defend him in a widely published article. timony of Palestinian “witnesses” so will be accused of being vacillating and are unlikely to hear much more about it Advocate Gilbert Marcus was also quoted in uncritically accepted, for example? indecisive by some, of weakly caving in again. an article in the Jewish Report last October, Moreover, why were the Report’s find- to Zionist pressure by others. Probably, Goldstone’s retraction has also saying the community owed Goldstone an it spells the end of his illustrious drawn attention in quite a dramatic apology for their attacks on his integrity. His career on the international human way to the UN’s institutionalized anti- loneliness over the past year-and-a-half must rights stage. Israel bias, as well as how Israel’s thor- have been excruciating, including the knowl- Nor is he ever likely to regain the oughness in investigating all accusa- edge that the pain his family was going esteem of world Jewry which he once tions against its military contrasted through resulted from his own actions. When enjoyed, notwithstanding his recanta- with the obdurate refusal of Hamas to asked once whether he would do the same tion. The price he is paying and will do likewise. For once, it is Israel’s ene- again, he said only if he didn’t have a wife and still pay needs to be factored in when mies that find themselves unexpectedly family. assessing whether, as was widely thrust onto the back foot. For two years Many people have asked how such a clever believed at the time, his acceptance of they have been able to get away with man - and a long-time supporter of Israel, at the UN brief was motivated at bottom the libellous charge that Israelis delib- that - could have been so naïve as to accept this by self-aggrandizement. erately kill civilians, but now the very no-win job in the first place (one angry op-ed Why did he do it? According to instrument they used to give quasi- in a major Israeli paper called him a “useful Gerald Steinberg, president of NGO legal credence to this has ended up idiot” for anti-Israel forces). Monitor, Goldstone “was misled by an demonstrating quite the opposite. For People wonder how he could have been so orchestrated campaign led by powerful that, it is not inconceivable that one blinded to the devious forces behind the com- NGOs”, whose supposed evidence was day, we might end up not merely forgiv- mission. Some people said he aimed at becom- aimed at furthering their political war ing Richard Goldstone, but actually ing secretary-general of the UN. Whatever the against Israel. The Anti-Defamation thanking him. truth, this saga has put paid to his career in the UN and other places. He is now seen as a flawed personality, prone to make wrong judgements. How will history judge him? Will it cruelly locate him in a one-liner in history books as Mr Justice Richard Goldstone (UN “the author of a deeply flawed UN report”? Or PHOTO / JEAN-MARC FERRE) will Goldstone be viewed as a courageous, principled man who, realising his professional mistake of signing onto such an inept report, was willing to declare the error before the world and take the consequences? Has he taught a lesson in humility to a soci- ety where, for most people, pride and stub- bornness foreclose any possibility of admitting error? His report was no April Fool’s joke. It caused gigantic harm to Israel’s world image, from which that country will probably never com- pletely recover. It provided vast propaganda ammunition to its enemies. Some people have proposed that Israel sue him and the UN for libel. For now, Israel and the Jewish world should seize the opportunity his retraction presents and work with him to clear Israel’s name, where possible. A start would be for him to use his legal skills to try to get the report annulled by the UN, in the same way its General Assembly resolution of 1975 equating Zionism with racism was eventually annulled in 1991. It's not clear how Richard Goldstone's "reconsideration" of his Gaza war report will impact on the investigations of Israeli actions during the war, such as the Israeli missiles on Palestinian targets in Gaza seen here, on December 27, 2008. (PHOTOGRAPH: EDI ISRAEL/FLASH90/JTA) 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 9

OPINION AND ANALYSIS - FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS Israel launches drive to void Goldstone Report RON KAMPEAS AND MARCY OSTER group did not investigate its own actions. WASHINGTON Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri said on Saturday that Goldstone’s “retreat does PRIME MINISTER Benjamin Netanyahu not change the fact war crimes had been said Israel would launch an international committed against 1,5 million people in campaign to cancel the Goldstone Report Gaza”. Abu Zuhri said that Hamas co-oper- after its author, former-South African ated with the . Justice Richard Goldstone, wrote in an op- Senior Fatah Central Committee mem- ed in the Washington Post, that Israel did ber Nabil Shaath said on Sunday that not intentionally target civilians as a poli- Goldstone retracted his committee’s cy during the Gaza War, withdrawing a report due to pressure. critical allegation in the report. Netanyahu on Saturday night called on Netanyahu said he had asked his securi- the United Nations to “cancel” the report ty adviser, Ya’akov Amidror, to establish a in light of Goldstone’s article, although he committee focused on “minimising the did not make clear what this would damage caused” by the report. involve. “There are very few instances in which The American Jewish Committee said those who disseminate libels retract their Goldstone should ask the United Nations libel. This happened in the case of the to “revise and update” the report. Goldstone Report,” Netanyahu said on Representative Ted Deutch (Democrat Sunday at the start of the weekly Cabinet Florida), a member of the US House of meeting. Representatives Foreign Affairs Commit- “Goldstone himself said that all of the tee, called on the UN Human Rights things that we have been saying all along Council to “retract” the report, which it are correct - that Israel never intentionally had adopted. fired at civilians and that our inquiries Abraham Foxman, national director of operated according to the highest interna- the Anti-Defamation League, said in a tional standards. statement: “What is so distressing is the “Of course, this is in complete contrast fact that Goldstone rushed to judgment in to Hamas, which intentionally attacked the first instance as to Israel’s alleged and murdered civilians and, naturally, intention to target civilians without any never carried out any sort of inquiry. This convincing evidence.” leads us to call for the immediate cancella- He added that Goldstone’s “specious tion of the Goldstone Report.” conclusion caused Israel untold damage in Goldstone wrote in last week Saturday’s the international community and played a Washington Post: “We know a lot more key role in fostering the campaigns of dele- today about what happened in the Gaza gitimisation of Israel”. War of 2008 - ’09 than we did when I Foxman called Goldstone’s renunciation chaired the fact-finding mission appointed of his own report “a story of the continu- by the UN Human Rights Council that pro- ing bias of the United Nations against duced what has come to be known as the Israel, a story of the unwillingness of the Goldstone Report. If I had known then international community to take seriously what I know now, the Goldstone Report the extremism and violence of Hamas, and would have been a different document.” a story of how a renowned jurist and mem- Goldstone withdrew what perhaps was ber of the Jewish community allowed him- his most damaging conclusion: That there self to be used by enemies of the Jewish was evidence suggesting Israel had delib- state”. erately targeted civilians during its war Gerald Steinberg, president of NGO with Hamas. Monitor, said Goldstone “was misled by an Referring to a UN committee’s recent orchestrated campaign led by powerful independent assessment of his report, NGOs” and that the so-called “evidence” Goldstone wrote in his op-ed: “While the provided by these groups was at the core of investigations published by the Israeli mil- the political war against Israel. Goldstone itary and recognised in the UN commit- had been taken in by crude manipulation.” tee’s report have established the validity of World Jewish Congress Chairman Eve- some incidents that we investigated in lyn Sommer, called on the United Nations cases involving individual soldiers, they to recognise Goldstone’s retraction and “to also indicate that civilians were not inten- revise the report issued by the UN that did tionally targeted as a matter of policy.” immeasurable harm and damage to the Goldstone said he might have drawn dif- State of Israel. ferent conclusions had Israel co-operated “It is high time that the United Nations, with his inquiry; Israel refused to do so, which gives much lip service to the con- seeing the UN Human Rights Council as cept of reform of the world body, re-evalu- irredeemably biased. ate its methods of reporting and documen- He also said that it “goes without saying” tation of investigations such as that of that Hamas intentionally targeted civil- Israel’s Operation in Gaza of 2009,” she ians and noted that unlike Israel, the said. (JTA) 10 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 OPINION AND ANALYSIS

FORUM FOR DIVERSE VIEWS Criticism of Israel doesn’t make one an enemy DEBATE AND contrary view- dream and hence certain forms Palestinians are at fault, there is Avishai (NewYork Times maga- points are central to our tradi- of criticism and debate are justi- nothing wrong with current zine February 13, 2011) reveals tion. It is said that when a THE JURY fied. Israeli policy, or further that the that Mahmoud Abbas offered Sanhedrin unanimously decided Both sides agree that Israel is West Bank belongs to us. then Prime Minister Olmert a to impose the death penalty, the IS OUT central to Jewish life that Israel Take your pick from the menu. deal that accommodated certain punishment would not be carried Dennis Davis is, must, and will continue to be a Those like myself who some- of the West Bank settlements out for want of a contrary opin- sovereign democratic state. Both times also err on the side of into Israel. ion. sides agree that countries like denunciation rather than rea- It also included agreement on In other words, a split of 36:34 Iran pose an existential threat to soned debate (no-one is innocent Jerusalem where it appeared would suffice for capital punish- people. In short, criticism of a Israel and that much of the criti- here) consider that the occupa- that, save for a holy basin of sites ment but not unanimity. The transient government’s policy cism to which Israel is subjected, tion of the West Bank is a mas- to be ruled jointly, the city would absence of the contrary position from a distinguished Jew who is is powered by anti-Semitism, sive mistake, that it jeopardises remain under Israel and an raised serious doubts about fully committed to Israel as a selective morality and occasion- the attainment of the Israel that acceptance that there would be whether the decision was correct sovereign state which is central ally ignorance. is an “or la goyim“. no right of Palestinian return, in that a proper debate had not and critical to Jewish life, was Both sides appear to be united They believe it is politically save for some 5 000 Palestinians. taken place. equated with treason! in their opposition to an academic unsustainable, at the very least, in Olmert lost office and no It seems that this principle has This kind of behaviour repre- boycott of Israel, of the kind the medium term to continue with agreement was achieved, but the far less weight in some of the sents a denial of the tradition of presently taking hold at the the present policy, in that it places nature of this proposal raises contemporary Jewish world. debate and the right to hold con- University of Johannesburg. Such Israel in jeopardy because with- questions as to why the present Take the example of UIJA leader, trary viewpoints. Needless to a boycott is a luminous example of out a viable state, Palestinians can Israeli government has refused Michael Davis who suggested say, it is permissible and justifi- selective politics which conve- only turn to increased resistance to pursue this offer. In short that if current Israeli policy con- able to disagree with the position niently forgets that contact with and Israel become more political- Avishai’s uncontested evidence tinued and hence Israel contin- adopted by Mr Davis, to contend truly repressive countries like ly isolated. explodes the myth that it is ued with the occupation of the that he was ill advised to make Zimbabwe, Iran or China is “fine” The argument is often raised - always the Palestinians who West Bank, the possibility exist- these remarks, but to classify but not with Israel which boasts a most of us agree that a two-state refuse peace. ed that, due to constraints of him as the enemy is a long bridge vibrant academic community of solution is the indicated route, In summary, it must be possi- demography, Israel could too far. different opinions! but there is no partner for peace, ble to debate these questions become an apartheid state. That leads to the question: Both sides object to the selec- hence do not criticise. without it being suggested that The point of the comment was What are key differences tive morality which is exempli- Two responses, at the very the critics I have described are that, absent a proper settlement, between those who argue that no fied by the stunning silence of least, can be offered. In the first enemies of the Jewish people. We Israel would govern over a popu- criticism of an Israeli govern- those who denounce Israel, but place, like motherhood and apple have enough real enemies. lation in which Palestinians ment is permissible, given the say nothing about the atrocities pie, few serious participants in If we could be faithful to our exceeded Israelis or, at the very fact that Israel is so often singled which engulfed the Fogel family. this debate would deny some tradition of dissent, we may con- least, Palestinians on the West out with egregious unfairness So, where are the differences? form of a two-state solution. The tinue to build community of all Bank would have no real vote. (for the record, an observation Those who denounce the critics key debate is what two states and who are committed to Israel It is a point that even Ehud with which I fully agree) and either suggest that in this cli- further that no settlement can be rather than denouncing those Olmert made when he was prime those, also committed to the mate it is manifestly irresponsi- unilaterally imposed by Israel. who share more than that about minister, but it did not save Mr Zionist dream, but who consider ble to voice public opposition to Secondly, there is evidence which they disagree. How about Davis from, in effect, being clas- that present Israeli policy is Israeli policy or go further and that Israel was offered a real some farsighted leadership in sified as an enemy of the Jewish manifestly incongruent with that argue that Israel is in the right, “deal” in late 2008. Bernard our community? 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 11 BUILDING SOUTH AFRICA People doing remarkable things

Aids trailblazer had to overcome huge odds ALISON GOLDBERG department doing awareness education, PHOTOGRAPH: ILAN OSSENDRYVER training, counselling, testing and advocacy. At this time Evian also started working as COMMUNITY health specialist Dr Clive a volunteer doctor at the HIV Clinic in the Evian (pictured), has been at the forefront of (then) Johannesburg General Hospital. the fight against HIV/Aids in Africa since “It was a struggle to get the hospital to 1989 - a pioneer in the surveillance, preven- take the epidemic seriously. This went on tion and treatment of the disease. for 10 years (1989 - ‘99). Those were the bad He was one of the architects of the old days when we tried - often in vain - to HIV/Aids Plan adopted by the new South get the hospital and organisations to start African government in 1994 by then addressing HIV. Minister of Health Dr Nkosazana Dlamini- “We were working against huge opposi- Zuma. Again in 2000 Evian was commis- tion and terrible attitudes. People thought it sioned by the government to provide them was a disease exclusive to gays, drug users with some guidelines. or sex workers. His company, Aids Management and “For me as a doctor, it was bizarre, A clin- Support, founded in 1997, has consulted over ic we set up in Hillbrow, was refused permis- 300 corporations and parastatals in 12 sion to carry our Aids centre on its sign- African countries. He is also an associate of board because it felt patients would stop Public Health Medicine of South Africa. coming to the building. We then started a Evian is a prolific writer whose widely clinic elsewhere in Hillbrow, which became used reference book on Primary HIV well known. Clinical Care for Adults, Children and “But after six or seven years I couldn’t Pregnant Women; A Practical Guide for afford to live on a municipal salary. This Healthcare Personnel in Primary Care was in the mid-nineties. I then started work- Centres, was first published in 1993. ing as a consultant to the private sector, It is now in its fifth edition, having sold designing programmes for companies and over 75 000 copies. Evian also co-published a doing a lot of epidemiological work - track- series on HIV/Aids for secondary schools, ing, monitoring and sizing up the epidemic as well as a 13 part series on primary clini- in different locations. cal care for doctors, nurses, students, etc. “I also worked for international develop- The HIV epidemic, which started in 1989, ment and Aids agencies and public health today affects one in five South Africans. authorities. Over the course of the next 10 Worldwide there are 35 million cases of HIV years (1995 - 2005) I consulted hundreds of infection, 25 million of them in Africa, with organisations. the bulk in sub-Saharan Africa. “In 2000 I also set up Wild4Life at the While Botswana has the highest rate of request of a number of American philan- prevalence in the subcontinent, its numbers thropists who were putting funds into con- are not as great as South Africa’s servation in Africa and wanted to start 5 to 6 million. working with HIV in that (conservation) In 1989 when Evian was working for the environment. I still work for them today and Johannesburg City Health Department, he conservation has become a passion of was asked to address the epidemic for the mine.” city. Evian is a senior technical consultant “There were only three other doctors in responsible for quality assurance for Right Johannesburg who had begun working with to Care, an NGO founded in 2001, which is HIV - all of them Jewish - Ruben Sher, Steve chiefly funded by grants from the US gov- Miller and Dennis Sifris”, says Evian. ernment. It assists governments in provid- Evian had just spent eight years working ing antiretroviral treatment and in setting in a rural hospital in the Mala district next up clinics. to the Kruger National Park in Gazankulu - In South Africa today it supports over 160 an outreach programme of the Wits clinics and finances the treatment of over Department of Community Health. He 100 000 HIV positive people. graduated from Wits in 1976. “The AIDS field today is massive, con- During his time in the bush he completed suming five per cent of the health budget a diploma in Child Health and a Higher (about R25 billion). Of the five to six million Diploma in Adult Education. HIV positive individuals in the country, 1,2 Somewhat earlier, in 1981, he produced million are receiving antiretroviral care.” primary care manuals for nurses in under- Compared to how they started over 20 resourced areas. The Mala district, with a years ago, when HIV was a killer and those population of 180 000, had only one hospital affected were discriminated against, with and 10 clinics, served by a total of only four almost no government support, “today to six doctors. The bulk of the community’s there are large organisations dealing with it medical care devolved to nurses. and lots of donor and government money is In 1991, two years after returning to available. Johannesburg to complete his specialisa- “In the Mbeki era with its dreadful tion and for personal reasons, Evian gained Minister of Health Dr Manto Tshabalala- his masters in medicine in Community Msimang, their attitude resulted in 350 000 Health. unnecessary deaths. Now we have a great His job at the Johannesburg City Health Minister of Health in Dr Aaron Motsoaledi Department entailed informing and educat- who is totally supportive. We’re in a much ing himself about HIV/Aids and setting up a more enlightened era.” 12 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 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 Ching Yun Hu shows her Ansteys Building, Central Johannesburg: Urban Arts Platform presents “Picnic and Performance”, April 10, brilliant virtuosic skills call Leigh: 072-124-4111. Concert: Ching Yun Hu, piano (Linder) melodic gifts with the ravishing ear for piano Art One Sixty, Parkwood: Programme: Music by Mozart, Schubert/Liszt, sonority of the former. Her palette of tone colours “The Layers that Lie Ligeti, Scriabin, Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov could at times have been more restrained, like in Beneath”, paintings and Ständchen where her playing came close to a trav- drawings by Bevlee Michel REVIEWED BY PAUL BOEKKOOI esty of Schubert’s original, for which Liszt can will be opened by Gordon partly be blamed. Froud on April 10, (011) 447- COMPOSURE IS an ingrained part of informed It’s a pity she changed her programme. She only 4967. Classical performance practice, but it is not neces- performed Ligeti’s sixth etude, Automne á verso- sarily always applied in our time. Ching-Yun Hu, vie, from his Book I. With her formidable tech- Artisan Contemporary the young Taiwanese pianist who already has a nique she took on the extreme challenges of this Gallery, Durban: wide following, opened her JMS programme last piece with phenomenal precision and élan. “Indigenice”, work by Carol week with Mozart’s Sonata in D major, K 576. An etude by the bewildering genius, Scriabin, Albertyn Christie, Leanne Although her playing as such was brilliant, one followed. Ms Hu drew out the piece’s limpidity and Frisinger and Fahmeedy could nevertheless have welcomed a slightly more dramatic build-up, while also capturing the Omar, April 13 - May 15, pliable, easy-going and acutely responsive music’s particular kind of fiery, rhythmic ecstasy. (031) 312-4364. approach towards every modulation. In the open- Her playing of two chosen excerpts from Taiwanese pianist Ching-Yun Hu (PHOTOGRAPH ing Allegro she focused strongly on mirroring Tchaikovsky’s 18 Pieces, Opus 72 - Méditation (No BY HANSHUN WANG/MUZIK, COURTESY WWW.CON- Foxwood House, right and left hand figurations. The Andante 5) and Valse à cinq temps (no 16) - was marvellous- CERTARTISTS.ORG) Houghton: “Slap Koejawel”, reflected Mozart’s cunning way of melodic inven- ly responsive and warm. There was sublime chem- with Vanessa Cooke and tion. istry in No 5, with melodies firmly projected, yet cy and grace was capped by blossoming fullness Annelisa Weiland, directed Here she did make us aware of modulations in a flexibly arched over the bar-lines, with a febrile and individuality. by Robert Whitehead, opens warmly sculpted performance. In the finale, central climax which stirred the senses. No 16 Very atmospheric were the many meditative April 10, with shows on Allegretto, Ms Hu at one point lost the composer’s sounded feisty with its (at times) unpredictable passages, while the Non allegro’s opening was Sundays only, until May 1, thread and had to acutely improvise to find it back punctuated rhythms. like a mesmerising dream. In the finale she had (011) 486-0935. again. Finally, we heard the truncated 1931-revision of the power to link the intrinsic dramatic sub-text In four Liszt transcriptions of Schubert songs - Rachmaninov’s Sonata no 2 in B flat minor, Opus with the agitated flamboyance that dominates Fugard Theatre, District Aufenthalt, Auf dem Wasser zu Singen, Ständchen 36. It was an illuminating interpretation. Youthful these magisterial final pages of this sonata salut- Six: “Broken Glass”, by and Erlkönig - she combined the latter’s supreme play of light and shade as well as an innate fluen- ing Late-Romanticism death knell. Arthur Miller, until April 16, (021) 461-4554. ness, the unconditional love and reliable presence Goodman Gallery, Cape Vintage Pippi still steals hearts of parents. Town: “Between Darkness We last saw this play in 2009; it has fresh direc- and Light”, by Jodi Bieber, Show: “Pippi Longstocking” (National Children’s hearts of generations. torial nuances and a new cast. Sama Yoyo as Mrs until April 30, (021) 462-7573. Theatre, Parktown, (011) 484-1584) “Pippi” pushes young audiences to a place Prysselius, the Child Board matron lends the play Cast: Stephanie Baartman; Courtneigh Cloud; where they might not be completely comfortable: the seismic shift between grownups and kids we Goodman Gallery, Malan le Roux; Lara Lipschitz; Adam Pelkowitz; empathy for those less fortunate. Pippi is a child find in Roald Dahl’s stories, where the children Rosebank, Johannesburg: Sarah Richard; Matthew Short; Joe Teffo; Sama who, with her mother in heaven and her father a are always several steps ahead. In her “you can “Till Death Do Us Part”, by Yoyo. pirate, embodies a freedom from rules that might call me mummy” speech, she lends a tone of tan- Frances Goodman, until Writer: Astrid Lindgren on paper be a child’s dream. talising horror that will have grownups cringing May 7, (011) 788-1113. Lyrics: Thomas W Olson With no one to tell you when to go to bed, or too. Directors: Joyce Levinsohn, Francois Theron when to brush your teeth, you are ostensibly free. Amid all the buffoonery and bravado, spiced by iArt Gallery, Cape Town: Design: Roberta Carlson (music); Jane Gosnell In truth, every child wants to be not Pippi, but her Pippi’s crook-defying superhuman strength, the “The Swimmers”, by Carla (lighting); Shelley Adriaanzen (choreography) friend; someone who can vicariously grasp life by play contains a kernel: an enjoinder to believe in Liesching, until April 27, Until: April 16 the throat and not let go till you’ve brought your your own sense of specialness, no matter what. (021) 424-5150. pet horse into the kitchen; but also someone who REVIEWED BY ROBYN SASSEN gets to keep the other stuff: stability, belonging- • Other children’s plays on the board these hol- Joburg Theatre, PHOTOGRAPH BY GREG DA SILVA idays include “Pinocchio”: Braamfontein: In the People’s Theatre, Braam- , THE YARDSTICK as to whether your tot is old fontein, until April 10, (011) 403- Mummenschanz, the Swiss enough to see theatre is not the fact that you have 1563; “Peter Rabbit”: Artscape, team of mime artists per- given birth to her. It is her ability to be swept into Cape Town, until April 9, (021) forms, April 12 - 17. In the the colourful, joyous world of a story with unbri- 410-9800; “Jack and the Fringe, “African Adventure”, dled focus. Beanstalk”: Irene Village April 15 - May 5, (011) 877- Shortly after the play’s opening, a wobbly-headed Theatre, Centurion, until April 6800. babe in arms and a toddler who spent the play tod- 9, (012) 667-2723; “Red Riding dling in the aisles were audience members: Hood”: Baxter, Cape Town, Market, Newtown: In the Bringing such young people to the theatre is until April 9, (021) 685-7880. Barney Simon, Shakes- appallingly selfish to cast, audience and child alike. peare’s “Richard III”, direct- Having said that, a little girl of three or four, her ed by Fred Abrahamse, until hair a mass of yellow curls, restrained slightly by Guilelessly tantalising and April 17. In the Main an Alice band, was unable to keep her mouth shut defying crooks, Pippi Theatre, Rajesh Gopie’s in wonder at the unfolding of this beautiful tale. Longstocking (Sarah With Sarah Richard reprising the eponymous “Coolie Odyssey”, until Richard), with the crooks May 8, (011) 832-1641. role with a cherub-like sense of chutzpah, the idio- syncrasies of Pippi are offset by the social conven- Stephanie Baartman and Adam Pelkowitz to her left Montecasino, Fourways: In tions all around her, in the 1940s world into which the Pieter Toerien, “Perfect she was first written and from which she’s won the and right. Wedding”, directed by Alan Swerdlow, opens April 12; in “Barney’s Version” is based on Mordechai Lefevre), a flame-haired, flagrantly unfaithful the Studio, “Love, Loss and FELDMAN Richler’s novel about a life in irreparable ruin free sprit with whom Barney briefly lives la vie What I Wore”, directed by and while it may be a tad overlong, and some of de Boheme in Rome. Moira Blumenthal, opens ON FILM the plot threads may not hang together very The second Mrs P (Minnie Driver) is a wealthy April 8, (011) 511-1818. In Peter Feldman well, it remains an absorbing look at the life of Jewish princess who shops and talks incessantly, Teatro, “Dreamgirls” until this man. barely noticing that Barney is not listening. May 22, (011) 510-7472. Barney is seemingly an ordinary sort of per- Barney meets the lovely, intelligent Miriam PICK OF THE WEEK son, but who lived an extraordinary life. Fat, (Rosamund Pike) at their lavish wedding and National Children’s balding and not the most attractive individual begins to pursuing her. She eventually becomes Theatre, Parktown: Barney’s Version on the planet, Barney had spirit and embraced his third wife, the mother of his two children, and “Pippi Longstocking”, until life with a passion. He mixed caustic intelli- his true love. April 16, (011) 484-1584. Cast: Paul Giamatti; Rosemund Pike; Minnie gence with an irascible charm. With his vulgar father, Izzy (Dustin Hoffman) Driver; Dustin Hoffman But he was also a vulgar lout. In the opening as his sidekick, Barney takes viewers through Old Mutual Theatre on Director: Richard J Lewis sequence we meet an inebriated Barney, chomp- the highs, and many lows, of his long, colourful the Square, Sandton: ing a cigar in the early hours of the morning, existence. “Page by Page with Judy” PAUL GIAMATTI has always been an exception- and busy making a nasty crank call to his third We view his life from Bohemian youth to the ends April 9. Steven al actor. ex-wife’s new husband. approach of Alzheimer’s and his acts of gal- Berkoff’s “Decadence”, He won an Oscar for “Sideways” and this year It’s easy to see why three women left him, but lantry, generosity, and goodness manifest at directed by Christopher he once again came to the fore with an Oscar what the film reveals is why they were ever times when one least expects it. Weare, opens April 12. nomination for the role of the ferociously ener- attracted to him. The supporting cast is excellent and includes Friday concerts feature a getic Barney Panofsky. He at least managed to Richard J Lewis’ debut production is a candid Scott Speedman as Barney’s best friend who dies piano recital with Wessel garner a Golden Globe Award for his efforts. confession told from Barney’s point of view. It in a freakish accident in which a hard-nosed van Wyk on April 8 and Barney is a role from heaven and Giamatti slips back and forth in time and covers three detective (Mark Addy) is convinced Barney was Adrian Ignat and the Vienna makes the most of it, scoring on all levels with decades and two continents, taking us through involved. String Quartet on April 15, his deep and touching understanding of a flawed, the different “acts” of his unusual history. All in all, “Barney’s Version” is first-rate cine- (011) 883-8606. but loveable character. We meet his first wife, Clara (Rachelle ma. 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 13

TAPESTRY - ART, BOOKS, DANCE, FILM, THEATRE Brilliant writing, but an overpopulated desk Great House by Nicole Krauss towards this inturned, delicate younger (Viking, R204) child. Behind his habitual crudity and impa- REVIEWED BY GWEN PODBREY tience with what he sees as David’s nar- cissistic self-indulgence, admits the old IT HAS been some years since Krauss’ man, there was never anything but last novel - time enough to hone her longing for closeness. already formidable novelistic skill into Now, with David already middle-aged, an instrument with surgical sharpness. that is even less likely. “Who do you Yet - for all its keen, gleaming readiness think you are - the hero of your own - this instrument remains merely a knife, existence?” asks the frustrated father. good for cutting deeply and straight into Cut to Arthur Bender and his wife the flesh of her subjects, but unable to Lotte, a German Holocaust survivor produce more than blood, gore and sev- whom he fell in love with despite - or ered organs. When it comes to actual because of - her almost complete with- healing, and breathing new life into dis- drawal from reality. sected tissue, Krauss’ powers wane. A poet by vocation, Lotte has allowed At its most fundamental level, this her husband to create a secluded house- novel - related by several different char- hold and lifestyle for her in rural acters - is the story of a desk, and all that England. Then, one night, a young man it comes to represent to its various own- knocks at the door. His name is Daniel or two swift metaphors, the fault lines ers, who exchange it, safeguard it, build Varsky and he wants to talk to Lotte, underpinning alliances. ambitions around it, stow secret desires whose writing he has always admired. “At times it seemed to me that my wife and dreams in its many drawers and use Reluctantly, Arthur lets him in - and was built around a Bermuda Triangle,” it as a stand on which to prop failed lives, sees his wife, for the first time, respond- Arthur tells us. “Send something in and stillborn relationships and unproductive ing with animation to this stranger. you might never hear from it again.” loves. Arthur fears that the two are having Krauss’ writing is powerful, moving Our first glimpse of the desk comes an affair, but the interlude passes and and radiant- even resurrectional, partic- when Nadia, a New York-based novelist, as Lotte sinks deeply into Alzheimer’s ularly in the final declamatory passages. is asked to look after the furniture of disease, Arthur discovers that she had The trouble with the book, though, is that Daniel Varsky, a young Chilean poet who an illegitimate child many years before, it is overpopulated, labyrinthine and, in is about to return to his country. whom she gave away. Devastated the end, immensely taxing, for one is Nadia develops an almost overpower- though he is by this secret, Arthur forced to follow thread upon thread, upon ing attraction to the young man. After he keeps his shock to himself. And when clue, upon echo, upon hidden signpost, departs, she receives intermittent post- Lotte eventually dies, he goes seeking subplot within subplot, along an alarm- cards from him; then they stop, and her son. ingly sinuous trail. Nadia learns that Varsky has been Finally, we meet Isabel, an American Lengthy thematic skeins of the arrested by Pinochet’s state police, tor- girl studying literature at Harvard who Holocaust, fascism, remembrance, loss, tured and killed as a dissident. falls in love with fellow student Yoav grief and legacy wind around each other As the years go by, Nadia - increasingly Weisz. In due course, she also meets his and finally break from the sheer volume lonely and unproductive - suffers a near- sister, Leah. The siblings live in filth of what the author has attached to them. breakdown. Then she receives a letter and disarray with their antiquarian Another problem is that despite the from Leah Weisz, a young Israeli woman father, George, whose life is committed novel’s different voices, they are really claiming to be Varsky’s daughter. She to reclaiming furniture seized by the one and the same character: Nadia, wants her father’s furniture and arrives Nazis. Isabel, Leah and Lotte are all the same to fetch it. These, then, are the cast of a seeming- woman, battling insecurities, seeking Somehow, the loss of the desk is more ly endlessly layered plot, with charac- vindication and insisting to herself (and than Nadia can bear and - unsure of her ters appearing, reappearing and briefly us) that, for all its shadows and treach- own motives - she follows Leah to abducting each other’s lives, while the eries, the kunstlerleben is noble. Jerusalem. desk moves from one dysfunctional Like her husband, novelist Jonathan The next voice in the novel is that of an home to another. Safran Foer, Krauss is obsessed with elderly, recently widowed lawyer whose As we realised in her two previous cryptic symbolism and a staggering two adult sons, Uri and David, have come novels, Krauss’ genius is her sensory array of literary conceits which ultimate- home for their mother’s funeral. exploration of relationships. Few writ- ly do not support the novel, but - in fact - Addressing David, who - even as a child - ers can match her eloquence, imagery collapse it. was always emotionally inaccessible to and acuity in divining the secret wells Krauss is a fine writer: indeed, a poten- him, the old man admits his failings as a which irrigate the inner human land- tially great one. If only someone would father: his gruffness and insensitivity scape; still fewer can uncover, with one tell her that less is more.

ADVERTORIAL At last... a real healthy sweet alternative to sugar and sweeteners SuKi is the newest sweetener to hit the store shelves... And what a treat!

We all know that sugar has so many negative effects on the body, it increases acid and wreaks havoc with moods and need we mention the negative effects it has on our children? So many sweeteners on the market continue to be questioned due to their negative artificial properties. SuKi at last… offers us a real promise of great healthy sweetness. All SuKi ingredients come from a natural source. It contains the incredible ingredient XYLITOL, but that’s not all, because SuKi has taken Xylitol to a new level by creating its own XYLITOL BLEND. SuKi XYLITOL BLEND brings us real, great, healthy sweetness. SuKi really is a great alternative to sugar and sugar substitutes and has been reported in the US as benefitting healthy teeth and bones. It is also said to have properties which help control bacterial and yeast infections (including thrush).

The incredible benefits of SuKi go on and on… It is low carb, low GI, sugar-free and contains no “bad” sweeteners. It is perfect for health conscious people and families, including children, dieters and diabetics. SuKi releases slowly in the body, leaving you fuller for longer and less likely to snack. And BEST of all, it delivers its promise of sweetness… even during cooking and baking!

Treat yourself to this great new innovative promise of sweetness. We know you’ll love it!

SuKi gets its name from: Su – which comes from the word Sukaria meaning sweet or sugar Ki – which is the Eastern word referring to the life energy for good health

SuKi is brought to you by

Available in a 250g bag and a box of 50 sachets. KOSHER FOR PASSOVER - AVAILABLE AT SUPERMARKETS AND DIS-CHEM STORES NOW 14 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 LETTERS The Editor, Suite 175, Postnet X10039, Randburg, 2125 email: [email protected]

Guidelines for letters: Letters up to 400 words will get preference. Please provide your full first name Disclaimer: The letters page is intended to provide opportunity for a range of views on any and surname, place of residence, and a daytime contact telephone or cell number. We do not publish let- given topic to be expressed. Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not ters under noms de plume. Letters should preferably be e-mailed. Letters may be edited or shortened. necessarily reflect the views of the editor, staff or directors of the Jewish Report PALESTINIAN INTRANSIGENCE SHOULDN’T STOP JEWS LIVING NORMAL LIVES EVEN IN RETRACTION GOLDSTONE SHIFTS BLAME ON ISRAEL I WOULD like to comment on The Jewish in Judea and Samaria THERE ARE some underlying lessons to be the investigation by a UN committee of independ- Report editorial about Itamar from the What Netanyahu was saying clearly is learned from Mr Justice Richard Goldstone’s ent experts chaired by Justice Mary McGowan perspective of a South African who has that if they shoot, we build. In other admission that he, quite candidly, screwed-up. Davis, which cast new light on Israel’s actions in made aliyah. words: (a) The Jewish people have a natu- One is that even the mighty have feet of clay Gaza, placing several embarrassing question Your decision not to publish the pic- ral historic and religious right to live in and cannot always be trusted to perform reliably marks over conclusions in Goldstone’s report. tures was your editorial prerogative and the whole of Eretz Yisrael, but if it could and with integrity, simply on the basis of their The second lesson is directed against the media one has to respect that even though I don’t bring about a GENUINE peace, then supposed impeccable credentials. in all its facets, for, if ever this failing is more agree with it. Israel is prepared to make territorial com- Few at the very height of their professions are clearly defined, its been in the case of Israel. You describe it as disrespectful, yet it promises. immune from making obvious mistakes or arriv- The rush to judge Israel in the harshest, most was done with the family’s permission all However, as the Palestinians refuse ing at misguided conclusions. Throughout histo- critical terms is legend, with some organs of the of whom are religiously observant people to even negotiate with Israel and are ry it has plagued the very best, despite the nobil- media more guilty than others - however, the due to the total lack of empathy and ster- now threatening unilateral action ity of their intent. overwhelming tendency to portray Israel in the ile reporting by the major media and the backed by recognition of a Palestinian What, however, separates the truly great from most negative light is an ignominious epitaph world to this atrocity. state by much of the world and without the mediocre, is the ability and inner strength to that will adorn the media’s headstone for years to Indeed, where is the voice of the UN a peace agreement, why should normal face up to their errors and admit to them when come. Security Council, Human Rights Council, Jewish life in our homeland be put on they literally stare one in the face. One has only to recall the accusations of the etc who are so quick to condemn Israel for hold? In the case of the Goldstone Report it would “Jenin massacre” that wasn’t; the hoax of the the building of Jewish homes and kinder- The most important aspect that you appear that Richard Goldstone’s backward flip alleged “ by Israel” of Mohamed al gartens in Jerusalem, Judea and Sama- have failed to mention is that the was not prompted by any deep desire to come Dura, proven in a French high court to be a fabri- ria? Where is Tutu? (Mr Justice Richard) Palestinian people are full of hatred for clean about his ineptitude. Greater men than he cation; the “deliberate killing by an Israeli shell” Goldstone? The silence is deafening. Jews and Israel due to continual incite- have baulked at the prospect of admitting their of a Palestinian family picnicking on a beach; the Imagine the world outcry if an Israeli ment, dehumanisation Nazi-style car- faults particularly when the fallout has been cat- supposed shelling of a Gazan hospital that never had perpetrated a similar atrocity! toons, etc. astrophic. occurred, etc. Each one was accepted without Further, I find your criticism of (Prime (There is a) refusal to recognise any President Harry Truman stuck unshakeably to question and never retracted when found to be Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu unwar- Jewish historical and religious rights to his decision to drop two atom bombs on Japan in false. There are dozens of others. ranted and indeed to me it reflects that Israel and a refusal to recognise Israel as the steadfast belief that in doing so he saved mil- With the enormous publicity surrounding the you are still stuck with the old tired for- a Jewish state. Suicide bombers are glori- lions of lives. Goldstone Report, upon which some high-profile mula of a peace process which since Oslo fied, squares and streets are named after But Goldstone is no Truman; even in apology anti-Israel pundits have pinned their credibility, has proved to be delusional. them and in Gaza sweets were handed out he finds difficulty in facing up to his responsibil- we can only hope that, miraculously, this time This atrocity did not happen in a vacu- to celebrate this atrocity. ity, trying to the last to shift the blame on Israel some sense of honesty and fairness will prevail, um, but comes as the world and many left- In the context of the background, your for not co-operating with a UN Human Rights for, if this is an attribute in which fair-minded wing Jews continually criticise and con- editorial misses the point and directs crit- Council-sponsored investigation that he himself men place any credence, it should. demn Israel for so-called settlement activ- icism in the wrong direction. admits to displaying a history of ongoing bias Indeed, the integrity of the media is at stake. ity. It is a blame (of) the victim attitude against the Jewish State. that is totally unacceptable, as if terror Ben Friedman Indeed, one is left with the suspicion that Victor Gordon attacks never happened before Jews lived Israel Goldstone’s about-turn was prompted more from Brooklyn, Pretoria ‘ANTI-ZIONIST BRIGADE’TAKEN TO TASK FOR BASHING DERSHOWITZ DERSHOWITZ APPEAL TO STOP WEST BANK BUILDING IS ‘DISTURBING’ I SINCERELY hope I am not too late to ed, attacking Arab terrorism with far less I, LIKE most Israelis, admire Prof Alan settlements include Maale Adumim, Gush comment on the cowardly attack on Prof venom than he constantly uses against Dershowitz for his outspoken support for Israel Etzion, Givat Ze-ev and Betar Ilit, all of which are Alan Dershowitz written by some so- Israel. and its right to defend itself. Moreover, he clearly fairly large and well-developed towns in which called intellectuals, (the usual suspects), Perhaps it would have been far better and frequently decries the one-sided attacks on the original residents now have children and and published in a Cape Town paper. It is for this anti-Zionist brigade to debate Israel from many different sources in many dif- grandchildren living, working and studying. important to clearly state that they have with the Harvard professor that they love ferent countries. All of these will never be given up by Israel in the right to criticise Dershowitz. to hate, as opposed to vilifying him in the It was, therefore, of great interest to read a any peace settlement, so why should building However, I would like to make two media. report on his address at the recent SAZF confer- activity cease? points: Firstly, much of their vilification Maybe they fear that the learned and ence, where he reiterated the support he has Giving in to this demand by the Palestinian of Dershowitz is personal and has no streetwise Dershowitz would be too wily given to Israel and its policies for many years. Authority, supported by President Barack place in any mature and intelligent dis- for them? If your report is accurate, one comment that he Obama and by Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, course. Personally, as a Jew, I am ashamed of made disturbs me greatly, namely that Israel would signify another victory for the Secondly, while they are offended by this lot, despite many of their academic should stop all building in the West Bank. Until Palestinians and a denial to Israeli citizens of an Dershowitz’s attack on Archbishop credentials. this requirement was demanded of Israel by the essential right for normal population growth. Emeritus ’s views on present American administration, it was never a Israel, they totally ignore the fact that the D Wolpert prerequisite for the previous discussions Monty M Zion archbishop has hardly been even-hand- Rivonia, Johannesburg between Israel and the Palestinians. Protea Village 90 CLARIFYING THE FOUNDING OF BNEI AKIVA As Dershowitz well knows, so-called West Bank Israel I WOULD just like to make a little cor- The late Bennie Morris and the Late DILAPIDATED STATE OF BRIXTON CEMETERY COMES FROM WAY BACK rection regarding the article by Isaac Zelick Katz joined the movement in the I read the Jewish Report on the internet every What a crying shame... the graves have sunken Reznik on the late Solly Leibgott. The 1940s whereas the other three people week and it keeps me in the news of South in, the lettering taken off the gravestones, the founder of the Bnei Akiva movement mentioned, started the movement with African Jewry. I was in SA some seven years ago chain links all gone, gravestones broken and just was the late Joe Green, but the other co- the late Joe Green in the 1930s. and (even) then the Brixton Cemetery was in a a total mess. founders were the late David Wacks, the shocking state. My grandmother is buried there. It really sadden us to think what had become late Rabbi Oshry and the late Leib Shoshana Wolfson My brother and I were shocked at the state of of this resting place of our loved ones. Frank. Glenhazel, Johannesburg the graves, buildings, and the squatters that had inhabit the Ohel, not to mention the garbage Beryl Traub DENNIS DAVIS, BY SIGNING LETTER, GIVES CREDENCE TO ACTIVISTS lying around, clothes, and just general filth. Australia ON MARCH 24 a letter appeared in a Cape of the steering committee of Open Town paper decrying Prof Alan Dersho- Shuhada Street. SEVERING OF UJ-BGU TIES: UJ THE BIG LOSER witz in the most vindictive, maligning man- For Dennis Davis to co-sign a letter THE DECISION by the University of Johan- some kind of support to Israelis serving in an ner. This letter was simultaneously posted with such vehemently anti-Israel nesburg (UJ) to severe ties with Ben-Gurion army responsible for protecting civilians against on the Open Shuhada Street blog and on activists, must be problematic. By align- University (BGU), is unfortunate in that firstly, it neighbours who openly declare their intentions to Zackie Achmat’s Writing Rights blog. ing himself with them in this letter he is, is considered a “victory” by those who support murder and maim as many civilians as possible. While most of what was said was taken by implication, giving credibility to all the campaign to delegitimize Israel by, amongst Of course UJ has academic ties with several out of context, I am not here to defend that they stand for and do, including their other effort, the Boycott, Divestment and universities in countries whose human rights Prof Dershowitz; I have no doubt that he acts of thuggery when they removed Sanctions initiative; and secondly, because in so records are dismal: Belarus, Swaziland, Brazil is more than capable of doing that him- items from the shelves in the Wellness doing, it risks the probability of depriving sec- and possibly others. self, should he wish to stoop to the level of Warehouse last year and refused to pay tions of the South African population the basic The bigoted, irrational behaviour of these his detractors. for them. right to clean, safe drinking water, since BGU was “respected” academics is reflected in their sin- An equally disconcerting aspect of the Your readers would do well to read providing UJ with its expertise in this area. gling out of the democratic State of Israel above letter was for me, the signatories to it. Justice Davis’ columns with much cir- However, what is most disturbing, is that this other countries that are horrific in their treat- Among others were Mr Justice Dennis cumspection from now on. academic boycott campaign was initiated and ment of their populations and yet continue to Davis, Doron Isaacs, Nathan Geffen and driven by the South African academic fraternity. enjoy academic co-operation with UJ. Daniel Mackintosh. The latter three, Monessa Shapiro Academics are expected to think rationally, criti- There has been no campaign or call for boycotts together with Zackie Achmat, form part Glenhazel, Johannesburg cally analyse and examine evidence, and draw of these universities by these “principled” aca- conclusions based on facts and not conjecture. demics - the defenders and protectors of human CHEVRAH COULD’VE DONE MORE ABOUT BRIXTON CEMETERY Professor Steven Friedman, speaking on SAfm, rights. clarified that UJ was committed to upholding and I WAS shocked to read in your issue of and yet such places are well kept and protecting human rights. It viewed BGU as being Felicia Levy. March 25, about the dilapidated condi- protected from vandals. guilty of human rights violations since it offered Glenhazel, Johannesburg tion of the Jewish cemetery in Brixton. The credit for this must go to Rabbi When I first arrived in Johannesburg Moshe Silberhaft. Sadly though, the in 1992, I went there to visit the graves of Johannesburg Chevrah Kadisha could LOOKING FOR... my grandfather Abe and my great-uncle have done much more to protect the Lazar (a founder of the Lion’s Shul in cemetery in Brixton. The Chevrah does INFORMATION WANTED ON JACOB FEINSTEIN’S FAMILY Doornfontein) and was pleased to note excellent work throughout the commu- ANNE LAPEDUS Brest is trying to help Barry had two sons, Bernie and Julius. We have no that all was in a good state of repair. Of nity, but is not the care of a Jewish ceme- Stone from the United States, who is planning to other information.” course there was then a superintendent tery one of its prime responsibilities? visit South Africa, and wishes to research some Anyone with any information of this family, in place. family roots. could you please contact Anne Lapedus Brest, tel I have visited a number of Jewish Rabbi Hillel Avidan Writes Stone: “My grandfather lived with an (011) 783-2237, cell 082-452-7166, or e-mail Anne on cemeteries in the country towns where Durban Progressive Jewish uncle named Jacob Feinstein in Johannesburg [email protected] and please cc there are no longer any resident Jews Congregation shortly after the turn of the last century. Jacob [email protected] 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 15 COMMUNITY COLUMNS AROUND THE WORLD Goldstone Report - a NEWS IN BRIEF ABOVE ROMNEY, THUNE SLAM OBAMA AS DISTANCING US FROM ISRAEL welcome breath of sanity LAS VEGAS - Two likely GOP presi- The Obama administration has con- BOARD dential candidates in speeches to demned Hamas rocket attacks on Zev Krengel, place and it was especially unfortunate that Republican Jews, have slammed Israel, although its tense exchanges National Chairman Justice Goldstone gave it such credibility by President Barack Obama as unfair to with Prime Minister Benjamin lending his illustrious name to it. Israel. Netanyahu's government over settle- A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies Now, fortunately, he has openly acknowl- Sen. John Thune (Republican South ment building have received much edged the seriously flawed nature of the Dakota) and former Massachusetts greater media attention. IT IS LATE in the day, quite possibly too late report that bears his name. As we feared, the Governor Mitt Romney, addressing the Thune said the Obama administra- to undo all the damage that has been done, Goldstone Report has been continually Republican Jewish Coalition's winter tion's emphasis on settlements made it but it is encouraging to see that Mr Justice invoked by the radical anti-Israel lobby in its leadership conference last Saturday in appear that they were the reason Richard Goldstone himself has now seriously unceasing efforts to demonise and isolate Las Vegas, both said Obama had shift- peace talks were not advancing while called into question the reliability of the UN Israel, not least through threatening to have ed from decades of pro-Israel policy. ignoring Arab recalcitrance and the investigation into the 2008-‘09 Gaza conflict. its leaders arrested should they travel They joined other Republican lumi- Iranian nuclear threat. As has been widely reported in the interna- abroad. naries at the confab. "America's ally is now and always tional media, Justice Goldstone has publicly Hopefully, Goldstone’s honest admission of Neither Thune nor Romney has for- will be the State of Israel," he said. "I retracted his charge in the UN report that fault will serve to discredit this particular mally declared his candidacy for the think the Obama administration Israel deliberately targeted civilians in the avenue of anti-Israel propaganda, and maybe 2012 Republican presidential nomina- sometimes forgets that fundamental Gaza war. even pave the way to a fairer, more balanced tion, but both are believed to be seri- fact." Now that Israel has instituted credible approach by the UN when it comes to appor- ously considering a run. Also speaking in closed-to-media investigations into more than 400 cases of tioning due blame in the Middle East conflict. Romney said Obama's clumsy events were Representative Eric alleged misconduct by the IDF, he has openly attempt to appear even-handed, led Cantor (Republican Virginia), the US acknowledged that had his investigation South Africa’s latest ‘Jewish Yellow him to "castigate Israel while having House of Representatives majority team had been aware of such information, Pages’ out nothing to say about thousands of leader, and Texas Governor Rick their findings would most likely have been The Board recently brought out the latest rockets being launched into Israel". Perry. (JTA) very different. issue of its perennially popular Guide to He has further taken Hamas to task for not Jewish South Africa. This is the fifth edition BRITISH JEWISH LAWMAKER APOLOGIZES FOR 'JEWS AGAIN' REMARK conducting investigations into its own con- of the Guide, which appears biennially and duct and stressed the UN Human Rights was first brought out by the SAJBD in 2000. LONDON - A British lawmaker has An arrest warrant was issued in Council’s history of anti-Israel bias. It provides a comprehensive listing of apologised for insulting a fellow Jewish December 2009 for former Israeli The SA Zionist Federation, as the organisa- every Jewish organisation countrywide, lawmaker and Labour Party member Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni after she tion mandated to speak out on issues relating including in the smaller towns and country during a debate in the House of was scheduled to visit the country to to Israel and how it is portrayed in the media, areas. Each includes the contact details, Commons. speak before a Jewish organisation. has since issued a statement welcoming addresses and current contact persons of During a debate on March 30 on Livni did not make the trip. Justice Goldstone’s latest comments. over 300 Jewish institutions, grouped under plans to change the law of universal The comments by Kaufman, who is Quite correctly, it points out that the such categories as religious, educational, jurisdiction, Gerald Kaufman turned Jewish but known for strong anti- judge’s retraction has vindicated what the Zionist, fundraising, welfare, outreach, to a lawmaker sitting next to him and Israel views, were picked up by a SAZF (along with the SAJBD and Chief Rabbi youth, women’s groups and kosher establish- said: "Here we are, the Jews again", as neighbouring lawmaker's microphone. Warren Goldstein among others) insisted ments. pro-Israel lawmaker Louise Ellman "I regret if any remarks I made in from the start, namely that the original UN The Guide is available freely on request rose to refute a claim by the Labour the chamber caused offence. If they report was “biased and based on conjecture through our offices, as well as in all kosher Party's Ann Clwyd that the lawmakers did, I apologise," Kaufman said in a and speculation rather than on actual evi- stores and Jewish bookshops. For further were trying to change the law - making statement released by the Labour dence”. information, contact Shirley Beagle on (011) it more difficult to issue an arrest war- Party. The Board broadly echoes this view. We 645-2500 or [email protected]. rant against a suspected international Ellman reportedly has made a for- regret that such a biased, unbalanced investi- war criminal - to appease the Israeli mal complaint to the party's leader- gation was ever commissioned in the first This column is paid for by the SAJBD government. ship. (JTA)

16 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 APRIL 2011

a.eu di dia.e Mexico – a friendly haven for Jews The travel writer, Paul Theroux includes Mexico in a list of perfect tourist destinations: ‘Pretty big. Not too dirty. Nice food. Courteous people. Sunshine. Lots of masterpieces. Ruins all over Photograoph courtesy ecardmedia.eu courtesy Photograoph the place. Names that ring a bell. Long, vague history.’ The Aztec Pyramid in Mexico. ROBYN SASSEN forced into Catholicism during the Spanish feeder from Chabad, Cabo Kosher offers Glatt Inquisition of 1492. Kosher meat and chicken, but also has fi sh on WITH A history stretching back over In spite of the hidden nature of their cultur- their menu. Their dairy products are all Cha- 2 000 years, into Mayan and Aztec civilisa- al status and the threat of being burned at the lav Yisrael. tions, it also boasts visceral and politically stake for being discovered to be “Judaizing”, In the city of Cancún, there is a similar ser- infl ammatory contemporary art produced they persisted in secretly circumcising their vice, under Chabad, providing kosher food to bby Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Ri- sons and keeping kosher. any hotel in the Cancún and Riviera Maya re- vvera - a descendant of Converso Jews. In the 1860s, Maximilian I of Mexico invit- gions. Chicken and meat products are import- Travel to Mexico for observant ed Jewish immigration from Europe, which ed from New York, Guadalajara and Mexico JJews is not complicated, sparked the second wave of Jewish emigra- City. The city also boasts a healthy stock of hhowever, by the percep- tion. From the 1880s, Jews fl eeing Russian kosher foods in its supermarkets. ttion of exoticism. Jews pogroms settled in Mexico in their thousands, Mexico boasts a rich array of exciting tour- and with the collapse of the Ottoman Empire ist venues, including a focus on the Jewish The pyramids at hhave been living in MMexico for centuries; in the 1920s, Sephardic Jews from Turkey, Mo- culture. The Tuvia Maizel Museum in Mexico Machupichu, built by numberingn over 50 000, rocco and France also fl ed to Mexico. City - also known as the Museo Historico Ju- Photograph coutesy businesswithlatinamerica.comthe Mayan civilisation. thet community today is Nazi persecution a decade later also forged dio Y del Holocausto - offers insight into the

Photograph supplied Photograph consideredc a haven for Jewish immigration. In addition, a small com- Holocaust roots of Mexican Jewry, as well Jews.J munity of American Jews has relocated to as the history of Jewish culture in broader Fernando Cortes’ Mexico. Mexico. Founded in 1970, it was remodelled in conquestc of the Aztecs Contemporary Jewish Mexico is in the ma- 1999 and has since accommodated over 150 000 ini 1521 brought the jority Ashkenazi; most live in Mexico City, visitors. fi rst wave of Jewish where there are more than 30 synagogues, More recently, the Memory and Tolerance emigratione to Mexico. most of which are Orthodox. The communi- Museum in Mexico City’s CBD, a fi ve-storey The façade of a synagogue in Mexico TheT Jews then were ty’s Chevrah Kadisha was established in 1922. glass and concrete building with a fl oor space City. largelyl Conversos, There are 12 Jewish day schools, including of 7 000m2, was inaugurated last October. ones catering to the haredi community, as well The dream of Mexican Holocaust survivors as yeshivas. The community is fed by a range and their offspring, the museum was a decade of schooling, including the secular “Yiddische in the making, funded almost entirely by pri- Schule”, in which Yiddish is taught - Ladino is vate individuals, many of them Jewish. spoken among the older members of the com- “It’s important as a nation to be very vigi- munity and those with Spanish forebears. Zi- lant about any act of exclusion,” said Mexico’s onist youth movements such as Bnei Akiva, President Felipe Caldéron, on opening the Habonim and Hashomer Hatzair are active in venue. Mexico City. “We have not overcome discrimination, The mizrachi community comprises Syrian which affects many groups of society.” immigrants, nominally recognised as Arab The museum focuses on Jewish persecution Jews. The Sephardic sector is descended from as well as genocides and atrocities in other Turkish and Spanish immigrants. parts of the world, including Rwanda, Yugo- In addition to Mexico City, smaller pockets slavia, Cambodia and South Africa. of Jews live in the cities of Jalisco, Guadala- Said refugee Vjollca Bajraj who fl ed to Mex- jara, Monterrey, Veracruz, Culiacán, Tijuana, ico after the ethnic cleansing in Kosovo: “Mex- Cancún and Cabos. ico is a tolerant place, though there’s still a lot These small communities are closed to in- to be done here, like in the rest of the world.” tegration: Until recently, marriage between This museum is part of an aggressive mar- Sephardi and Ashkenazi Jews was considered keting campaign for Mexico, mooted two years intermarriage, and was avoided. ago by Caldéron, built on the premise that In Tijuana, Cancún and Cabos, Chabad Mexico has everything. One of its primary Centres comprehensively facilitate needs for economic drivers is the tourist industry, and the community and visitors. On a civil level, it continues to fl ourish. the Central Committee for the Jewish Com- Mexico is today considered a haven for munity of Mexico, established in 1938, is an Jews. Anti-Semitism is virtually non-existent; umbrella body for Jews in Mexico. Jews hold high positions in government and While some cities have their own kosher business; Jewish artists and writers are con- plants, others cater for kosher patrons with a sidered among the cream of society. more personal touch. In the city of Cabo, Cabo Most Mexican Jews are middle to upper- Kosher is the fi rst and only kosher meal ser- middle class. In 2003, President Vicente Fox vice. passed a law forbidding discrimination, in- Operating like a Mr Delivery, they deliver cluding anti-Semitism, legislating what has food ordered online or telephonically. A been practised for years. Ten essential tips

Ten tips for when you go to Mexico: rican rand will buy you 1,7 New Mexican • You need a visa to visit Mexico. The Mexican Pesos (MXN) Embassy is in Pretoria: (012) 460-1004, and • The “casas de cambio” (exchange houses) a tourist visa for South African passport- are faster, more easily available and operate holders is free of charge. with longer working hours than the banks, • Special medical precautions are only neces- for changing currency. sary for travel to Mexico if you intend trav- • Traffi c in Mexico is on the right hand side. elling to jungles or remote areas, in which • Electricity in Mexico is 127 volts. The major- case, consult your tour guide. ity of plugs are two fl at-pronged-style plugs. • Mexico’s climate is tropical to temperate, Some have a third, round, prong for earth. varying according to altitude, winds and • Avoid drinking tap water in Mexico. Be Pacifi c Ocean currents. The Yucatan Penin- wary of drinks that have water added to sula and low-lying areas of the south enjoy them, fruit and vegetables that may have a tropical climate; weather in the higher al- been washed in tap water, and ice. titudes is temperate. Coastal areas receive Mexico uses three time zones. Most of plenty of rain; most of the country is dry. the country uses Central Standard Time, Mexico’s east and west coast are at risk of which is six hours behind South Africa. hurricanes during summer and autumn. Daylight saving begins at 02:00 on the fi rst • Spanish is spoken throughout Mexico; Eng- Sunday in April and falls back to Stan- lish is spoken in the tourist areas. dard Time on the last Sunday in October • At the time of going to press, one South Af- at 02:00. 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 17 18 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011

YOUTH TALK Alison Goldberg [email protected] SAUJS makes sure Jewish voice is heard on all campuses STEPHANIE HODES for the year ahead. PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED A brainstorming and planning session generated new ideas for original events THE SOUTH African Union of Jewish aimed at uniting Jewish students and mak- Students (SAUJS) has kicked off 2011 with ing their university experiences that much a bang. Welcoming hundreds of new mem- more fulfilling. bers from university campuses nationwide, With Jewish values at the heart of every- the newly-elected SAUJS committees are thing SAUJS does, the group continues to raring to go. cater to the needs of Jewish students on Jewish student communities in campus, providing representation and Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban can ensuring that the Jewish voice is heard. KDL Primary puts on human rights play look forward to an exciting year filled with SAUJS remains committed to fighting STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH: YONIT WEIL The play highlighted children’s rights enough social, religious, Zionist and com- issues of anti-Semitism on campus, and to education and their responsibility. munity outreach events to ensure a Jewish creating a space where no Jewish student should feel unwelcome or unsafe in their TO COMMEMORATE Human Rights Day These rights are important to help make presence is felt both on and off campuses learning environment. which took place on March 21, King David human rights a reality everywhere. across South Africa. Linksfield Primary’s grade 6 Zulu At this assembly the children were pre- SAUJS members are invited to campus class presented a meaningful play to sented with the “Bill of Responsibilities”. braais where they can meet and mingle emphasise the fundamental rights of The grade 6 Zulu class is pictured with with other Jewish students away from the being human. with teacher Shereen Ngwenyas. stresses associated with their lecture halls, and weekly shiurim with Rabbi Gideon Pogrund, who shares both pizza and deep KDVPP grade 4s rap the serious stuff Torah insights during the lunchtime break, serves as an avenue for students to STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH: enhance their spiritual and religious SHIRA TOLLMAN knowledge in their academic environment. SAUJS hosted Ishmael Khaldi, a high THE GRADE 4 learners of King ranking Bedouin-Israeli diplomat, at UJ, David Victory Park Primary UCT and Wits with the aim of combating School, have been learning the misnomer that Israel is an apartheid about Howard Gardner’s multi- state, during the politically-charged ple intelligences. “Israeli Apartheid Week” that took They have specifically focused place on campuses across the world on eight intelligences of verbal recently. linguistic, logical mathematical, SAUJS continues to be at the forefront of spatial, body kinesthetic, musi- Israel advocacy, defending both the legiti- cal, naturalist, interpersonal Joey De Aguiar; Adam Stein; Dean Solomon; macy of the State of Israel and its right to and intrapersonal intelligences. exist, on often hostile university campuses. Erin Bannier; Nadia Bartal; Megan Kantor; and Devon Mogg, SAUJS Wits chairman and For the Friday assembly grade Mathew Rauff. Jewish student leaders recently partici- 4T presented these in the form of pated in a weekend-long hadracha where Stephanie Hodes, SAUJS national chair- a rap song where they were learning in a fun way with the rest of the they identified their goals and challenges, man at the O-week sign-up table at Wits dressed the part and could share their school. and mapped out their vision and mission recently. 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 19

YOUTH TALK Alison Goldberg [email protected] Yeshiva College selects its Bnei Akiva and SAUJS pay two Junior Councillors tribute to Human Rights Day YESHIVA COLLEGE is proud of its Junior NADIA KRUGER home searched by the secu- City Council (JCC) representatives for PHOTOGRAPH BY rity police. 2011. One learner from each high school JULIE ISAACSON Rabbi Isaacson, who was (Boys’ and Girls’) has been selected to rep- the first rabbi to join the resent the College. IN HONOUR of South ANC, spoke of how his Learners wishing to participate in this African Human Rights Day, understanding of human organisation were asked to write an essay Bnei Akiva and SAUJS rights according to the on “youth and diversity”. This was fol- hosted veteran anti- Jewish tradition helped to lowed by a series of interviews with the apartheid activist Rabbi shape his fight against the school’s councillors from 2010, Avigael Ben Isaacson in Johan- apartheid regime. Cutler, Ariel Sobel and Terry Tennant, nesburg. His courage to stand up head of the English Department. Rabbi Isaacson, who him- and fight for what he Thereafter a decision was made, together self was once a chaver of believed in, even though with the principal of the high schools, Heads of committees are appointed by Bnei Akiva, shared his life many people opposed him, Denese Bloch and Rabbi Laurence Perez, the the councillors themselves and the aim of story, which included inspired us all. College’s managing director. Rivki Bank and the organisation is to make a difference to studying at the famous Human Rights Day for all Daron Biddle (pictured), both grade 11 learn- Johannesburg on behalf of the youth of Telshe and Chaim Berlin present at this event ers, have been appointed to represent the city. Yeshivot, becoming assis- became an opportunity to Yeshiva College as councillors for 2011. The experience is a wonderful leadership tant rabbi to former Chief Rabbi Ben Isaacson. heal wounds of the past The JCC is an outreach organisation opportunity for our learners and further- Rabbi Louis Rabinowitz, and accept responsibility made up from different walks of life. It is a more Rivki and Daron will take the name presenting outspoken anti- apartheid ser- for the future, by learning from innova- non-governmental, non-profit organisa- and reputation of Yeshiva College to all mons from the pulpit and having his tive characters like Rabbi Isaacson. tion. The councillors sit on various com- four corners of the city. mittees such as welfare, fundraising, cul- We wish both of them much “hatzlacha” ture and sport and recreation. for the year. KDS Chesed Club packs boxes for Yad Aharon VIVIEN FOX PHOTOGRAPH: ILANA Hirsch Lyons boys show that they ‘can’ DEMBY RABBI STEVEN KRAWITZ PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED THE MEMBERS of the King David Sandton Primary THE LEARNERS from Hirsch School Chesed Club recent- Lyons Boys High School have ly went to Yad Aharon to done themselves and their help pack boxes for Jewish school proud in collecting tins children of school-going age of food for Yad Aharon’s Can for their school lunches. Can Appeal. Pictured are The project is called Ohr Yochanan Hoppenstein and Natanel in memory of Natanel Feigenbaum, a 15- Dov Welcher, with Sonia Jemma Schapiro; Tyler Parker; Dani Lang; Jamie Treger; Margolias, next to some of the year-old boy. who passed Gabi Galaun; Amber Galaun; Kaden Saig; Tyra Berman; tins collected. away tragically when knock- ed down by a motorcar. and Dean Bacher.

ADVERTORIAL Launch of King David Schools’ Foundation’s Dor le Dor Campaign

Last Thursday evening, Adrian Gore (new chairman of the King David Schools’ Foundation - KDSF) launched the Dor le Dor - Generation to Generation Campaign - which aims to build an endowment fund to sustain the future of the King David Schools, institutions pivotal to the future of the Jewish community.

RONEL ZEFF gious, cultural and sporting curricula) 4. Improvement of our infrastructure (upgrading our facilities and tech- The role of Jewish education is more essential than ever before, serving nology) as a moral compass in today’s complex world. In addition, circum- 5. Support of our outreach programme (enhancing our commitment to stances and realities in South Africa have brought significant change in previously disadvantaged communities) education, which makes high-quality private schooling in this country Stephen Koseff, one of our newly appointed trustees, in his address increasingly important. As such, more and more Jewish parents have to at the function, emphasised the essential role of Jewish schools in a consider the King David option, whether or not they can afford it. community and described how the Jewish community in Benoni began As community schools, the King David Schools must make provision to dwindle once the Jewish day school system there closed. to assist such learners. Currently just under 10 per cent of school fees As such, strategic fundraising initiatives are planned to build the from full-fee paying parents is allocated to a subsidy fund that affords endowment fund and the KDSF has undergone a rebranding exercise over 500 children the opportunity to attend our very special schools. to support this new vision for long-term sustainability. However, we cannot continue to rely solely on tuition fees from full- Our new logo strongly identifies itself with the King David Schools Lauren Gore, Raelene Tradonsky, Ronel Zeff, Elliot Wolf fee paying parents to fund the subsidy programme, as well as the edu- and rests in a Magen David, indicative of Jewish heritage as the foun- and Adrian Gore cational advancement and infrastructural development required across dation of the King David Schools. all five campuses to maintain the high standards synonymous with the Our new trustees, Adrian Gore (chairman), Brett Levy, David name King David. Frankel, Jonathan Hackner, Michael Mendelowitz, Stephen Koseff, and The King David Schools must therefore secure ongoing financial Steven Joffe, are all prominent businessmen who have endorsed our independence and sustainability and Thursday evening was the first new way forward, which is headed by fundraising directors, Elliot step in a major campaign aimed at parents, alumni and the broader Wolf and Raelene Tradonsky (née Shapiro). community to achieve exactly this. Together, we ask both the local and overseas community, especial- The Dor le Dor Campaign aims to raise a substantial amount for an ly King David alumni, to support the new direction of the KDSF and to endowment fund. Capital growth and income generated from this fund embrace this opportunity to help sustain the institution that nurtured will be applied to the following key strategic initiatives: them. 1. Continuation of our subsidy programme (financial assistance for In this way, future generations of Jewish children will have access Jewish learners in need) to the wonderful education and heritage from which thousands of alum- 2. Enhanced development of our teaching programme (attracting and ni have benefited. Ultimately, an excellent education will allow our chil- retaining quality teachers) dren to make meaningful contributions to the communities in which they Lauren Phillips, Elliot Wolf and Howard Phillips 3. Expansion of our learning programme (strengthening academic, reli- will live, as so many of our alumni have already done.

To make a donation to help build the endowment fund, contact Elliot Wolf on +27 11 480 4730 or [email protected] or Raelene Tradonsky on +27 11 480 4501 or [email protected] or make a deposit into: King David Schools’ Foundation I Standard Bank Ellis Park I Acc no: 002101076 I Branch code: 004605 All donations are eligible for Section 18a tax certificates. Overseas donations are welcome. 20 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011

WHAT’S ON Barry Bilewitz [email protected]

NOTE: Deadline for all entries is 12:00 on the Friday Monday (April 11) prior to publication. CROSSWORD NO 205 • JWBS Fun Day at Stylish Hair, Johannesburg Road, Today Friday (April 8) BY LEAH SIMON Lyndhurst, any two - blow dry, manicure or make-up, • RCHCC is hosting the “Memories of Muizenberg” exhi- including snacks, prizes, etc. R200, in aid of the ACROSS: and walks unsteadily (8) bition until April 27. Viewing times: Monday to JWBS. Enquiries: (011) 786-1458 or (011) 485-5232. 1. South has nothing again, being 15. Poised article about being fat (7) Thursday 09:00 - 16:00, Friday 09:00 - 12:00. Closed Tuesday (April 12) mediocre (2, 2) 16. Enlarges southern waterholes (6) Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Open on evening 3. Listen again - well said! (4, 4) 18. Man gets either male child (5) events 18:30 - 21:30. • WIZO Fortnightly Forum presents Rhoda Kadalie on 8. Article using dry humour goes off 19. Break link to oven (4) “My Trip to Israel – How it Opened My Eyes”, at course (4) • UZLC presents Estelle Sher on “Can Concert Music Beyachad at 09:30. To book phone (011) 645-2515. 9. Guns rail about one (8) SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD NO 204 Have a Jewish Soul?” • Second Innings Men’s Group presents Susan Woolf 11. Hellish place for old French penal Saturday Night (April 9) on “The Implications and Meaning of Taxi Signs” at colony (6, 6) ACROSS: 1. Warm; 3. Closeted; 8. Lads; 9. Our Parents Home at 14:15 for 14:30. 13. Jackie ———, former SA Police Chief Attested; 11. Decimal point; 13. Nellie; 14. • Israeli Embassy is screening the Oscar-winning doc- (6) Neared; 17. Naval officer; 20. White lie; 21. umentary “Stranger No More” at 20:00 at 1 Osborne Wednesday (April 13) 14. Narrow water passage isn’t curved, Drab; 22. Treatise; 23. Isle. Lane, Gillooly’s View, Bedfordview. Cost R50 - benefi- • UJW Cape Town presents Shirley Gelcer, who’ll be we hear (6) ciary WIZO. Call Naomi on (011) 496-1111. showing a DVD documentary, “The Exodus De- 17. Central heating for the new resi- DOWN: 1. Well done; 2. Radical; 4. Lately; Sunday (April 10) Coded”. dence? (5, 7) 5. Sees one out; 6. Titan; 7. Dodo; 10. 20. Puts in broken tins with illnesses (8) Ambivalent; 12. Adorable; 15. Records; 16. • UJW Show house - “Birdsview”, 173 Empire Place, • RCHCC and SAUJS are screening “Comrade 21. Flower in Herero sediment (4) Copies; 18. Abide; 19. Twit. Sandhurst from 10:00 to 12:30. Guest speaker - Goldberg” at 19:30 followed by a Q and A session with 22. Nose around four Stephen Falcke at 11:00. Refreshments will be served. Dennis Goldberg. Donation R60. directions – what 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Contact (011) 648-1053/e-mail [email protected] • Bnei Brith Barak Unit presents John Berks on his life rubbish! (8) • King David High School Victory Park presents and times in the media at 19:45 for 20:00. Venue: Ohr 23. Step up for domes- “All Shook Up”, an all singing, all dancing show Somayach Shul Hall, Aintree Avenue, Savoy. Cost: tic animals (4) 8 9 based on the hits of Elvis Presley at 19:30 daily R50. Contact Les Markowitz on 082-885-4107. until April 13. Tickets R80. Contact Eida DOWN: Thursday (April 14) Schneiderman, (011) 446-7860. 1. Hit and run in a 10 • RCHCC is screening “Unhinged: Surviving Jo’burg” at careless way (4, 4) • Second Innings presents Ria Milburn - “Under the 11 19:30. Donation R60. 2. Hear confession of African Sky”. pupil - and wither Friday (April 15) 12 away (7) • Pesach with Shooby Doob Shloimy. Venue: Eden • UZLC presents Digby Ricci, on “Some Current Films”. 4. Disturb lice on it - College auditorium, Johannesburg Road, Lyndhurst 13 14 15 and get out (6) at 11:00 and 16:30. Tickets available at Chabad Sunday (April 17) 5. Left your great con- Bookshop, Village Walk; Kollel Bookshop, 16 • Second Innings presents Joyce Levin on “A Family fusion, according to Norwood; House of Judaica; Norwood Mall. Contact 083-272-8541. Trip to Lithuania”. the law (10) 17 18 6. Girl hides in swell • Big Band Music Appreciation Society is meeting in • Second Innings Outing - “A Perfect Wedding” at enclave (5) 19 the Jeffrey Auditorium, St John’s College, St John’s Montecasino Theatre. Time: 13:00 for the bus, 14:30 7. He’s found among Road, Lower Houghton at 14:15. Contact Jack on at the theatre. Where: Oxford Shul for the bus; retro ryegrass (4) 20 21 (011) 782-7111 or Barney on 073 438-8799. Montecasino Theatre for the show. Cost: R100 per 10. Septic bile resulting ticket for good seats; R50 for the bus. from direct vote of • RCHCC hosts an audiovisual presentation by Gerald Monday (April 18) electorate (10) Zwirn, “Prima Donnas and Other Wild Beasts” - a light- 12. Gets rags knotted - 22 23 hearted look at the fables and foibles of opera’s lead- • JAFFA - first night seder R130. R60 for children ing ladies at 19:30. Donation R70. under 12. THE BRIDGE LOUNGE by Jeff Sapire

TRUMP CONTROL is a vital factor in suit play. When Declarer won the lead and quickly went about the missing five cards in a suit, the likely 3-2 break is 68 per play, which looked very straightforward - draw cent, but a 4-1 break will occur as often as 28 per cent of trumps and then run the club suit, making an easy 11 the time, which is far from insignificant. tricks. Many an easy contract can become quite difficult to So, at trick two he advanced the ten of spades. Had handle, sometimes even proving too much for declarer West taken this, it would have been easy. to cope with. But both sides have techniques available Say West switches to ace and another heart. This is to try to deal with the situation – as can be seen on ruffed in dummy with the eight, and now the remain- today’s hand. ing trumps are drawn, declarer playing the king next, North dealer, both vul followed by the jack, overtaken with the queen to NORTH draw the last with the nine – followed by all the KJ108 clubs. 2 But West ducked the first spade, and found the cor- A rect defence of ducking the next one too. This is fairly AKQ10542 standard procedure with Axxx in trumps. Don’t take WEST EAST the first two, but win the third round. A432 5 At the table declarer did continue with a third AQ853 KJ109 round of trumps, taken by West, who now switched to 85 J10964 hearts, forcing the dummy to with the last trump. 87 J96 Now declarer couldn’t back to hand to draw west’s SOUTH last trump, so was forced to start running the clubs. Q976 He discarded his two losing hearts on the clubs, as 764 West ruffed the third round. Now another heart KQ732 forced out declarer’s last trump, leaving him with two 3 diamond losers, for two down. South North The winning line is to stop drawing trumps after 1C the second round when the suit is seen to be splitting 1S* 4H** 4-1, and to get going with the club suit. West is wel- 4S Pass : D8 come to ruff the third club because both declarer and dummy still have two trumps each. Note South’s decision to respond 1S instead of the West can take his ace of spades, but all the defence traditional 1D. Most experts use the Walsh convention, get are the two aces and the club ruff. where, with a hand that does not have enough points for game, one skips the diamond suit and responds in the Every Tuesday (Intermediate) and Wednesday major. (Advanced) I run bridge workshops from 10 - 12 at the Over 1S, North made a splinter bid of 4H, showing a Great Park Shul - alternating play hands one week and strong supporting hand in spades with shortage in the a bidding lecture on the other. Corner Glenhove Road heart suit. South wasn’t particularly interested in slam and 4th Avenue, Houghton. For more information, e- and signed. mail me at [email protected]. 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 21 In Jerusalem Marathon Ossip went to ‘place of beyond’ DIANE WOLFSON PRETORIA

FOLLOWING AN article in the pre- vious issue of SA Jewish Report, Pretorian Elayne Ossip recently took part in the Jerusalem Marathon. Ossip, a seasoned runner, has Elayne also completed 11 Comrades Ossip ran Marathons as well as 26 ultra- the marathons over the years, but on Jerusalem March 25, Ossip embarked on a spe- Marathon. cial journey: to run her 50th stan- dard marathon in her 50th year. the marathon would continue as itual and emotional run, met some On a cold wintery Jerusalem planned. former South Africans on the way morning, at 07:00, she stood at the The marathon route allowed par- and doing the last two km for (cap- starting line next to the Knesset, of ticipants to take in 5 000 years of tured soldier) as they the very first standard Jerusalem history with phenomenal and handed out yellow ribbons to us to Marathon of 42,2km. breathtaking views. remember him by,” says Ossip. Her dream had come true, when It passed the centre of town on to “When running a marathon I she joined approximately 1 000 run- the Old City, past the Sultan Pools, always run with humility, thanking ners from 40 countries of whom Talpiot, Ammunition Hill, through Hashem along the way, going out of about 30 were from South Africa. the Hebrew University and finish- my restraints and boundaries to a Despite the tragic bomb blast at ing in Sacher Park. place of beyond. I have been grant- the central bus station which was “It was one of my harder ed the ability, the tenacity and the across the road from the registra- marathons. As it says in Psalms, endurance to complete my 50th tion of the marathon, Nir Birkat, Jerusalem is surrounded by hills. I standard marathon in 4 hours 11 the mayor of Jerusalem, stated that can vouch for that. I had a very spir- min.”

BLOODY PIG'S FOOT, ANTI-SEMITIC NOTE MAILED TO REP PETER KING AROUND WASHINGTON - A bloody pig's foot explosives and never made it to and an anti-Semitic note were sent to King's office, according to reports. A THE US Representative Peter King, chair- letter with the package referred to a man of the House of Repre- Homeland Security meeting last sentatives' Homeland Security month in which King voiced concern WORLD Committee. about the "radicalisation" of the Capitol Hill police have opened an American Muslim community. NEWS IN BRIEF investigation into the package to The letter, which reportedly was King (Republican New York), full of anti-Semitic sentiment, also Politico reported. reportedly referred to King as Jew. The package's contents were dis- King, who has served in Congress covered when it was scanned for since 1993, is not Jewish. (JTA) 22 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011 HEALTH & BEAUTY LIFTS

CRYSTAL CLEAR POOL SERVICE METALLIC NAIL TIPS EXCELLENT, RELIABLE Latest and very trendy hands & DRIVER AT YOUR Does your POOL need ATTENTION and CARE? toes. Available in gold & silver. SERVICE Is your pool GREEN or DISCOLOURED? Contact Val: To lift you anywhere/ I will look after and maintain your pool to perfection 084-400-2682 anytime 24 hours. (011) 844-0400/1 Call Gershon Call me today for a FREE Quote 071-974-5573. Excellent Service Guaranteed Classifieds HOME INDUSTRIES / DRESSMAKING EX ISRAELI SERVICEMAN Monthly Service starting from R450 To book your classified notice or advert contact: Tel (011) 023-8160, Fax 086-634-7935, email: [email protected] ALTERATIONS Offers lifts to airport and Done professionally. appointments etc. IMPORTANT NOTICE - The Jewish Report runs adverts in the Classified section in good faith, however Phone Jackie Don’t drink and drive. Jarrod Len 082 954-7774 we would like our readers to know we cannot be responsible for the quality of services offered and (011) 728-5038 claims made. ALL HOURS! LIFTS Call Neil 072-050-9927 [email protected] HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED ADVERT: 1. Only adverts sent via email to [email protected] will be accepted. 2. You will be advised on cost & pay- ment details. 3. Payment is prior to the advert appearing. 4. DEADLINE for BOOKING and PAYMENT is Tuesday 12pm. If deadline is missed the IRENE'S SCHLEP advert will appear (when payment is received) in the next edition. Our banking details: SA Jewish Report, SERVICE I will take you anywhere: Rehab Manager – Nedbank Randburg, Account Number: 1984 514 865, Branch Code: 198405 School, Shops, Doctor, Friends Sandringham and Airport. Honest and NOTICES PERSONAL Trustworthy CONSECRATIONS Schlepped by Irene Johannesburg Jewish Helping Hand is looking for a SOULMATES 072-356-0282 junior bookkeeper who will be responsible for the fixed COUNTRYWIDE – MANY Not on Shabbat asset register for the group. GAUTENG AND CAPE Knowledge of Accpac would be an advantage. MEMBERS! AIRPORT SERVICE IVAN WANTS TO RESULTS: 183 COUPLES JHB LIFT YOU!! Computer literacy is a key requirement for this position MARRIED! 402 COUPLES Reliable, Trustworthy, MATCHED! Punctual. Only short-listed applicants will be responded to. MAZELTOV TO JODY & KIM Reliable, JHB / Sandton / ON YOUR ENGAGEMENT! & Reasonable Rates! O.R. Tambo Interested candidates please forward a SHERRYL & BERNARD, Contact Arnold, Cell: 082-962-5007 current c.v. to [email protected], fax, HARRY & NIKKY OUR LATEST 082-447-0185 0866327774 or Private Bag X1, MATCHES! 011-454-1193 LIFTS AVAILABLE MANY SINCERE PRETTY/ For all age groups and to all Sandringham, 2131. HANDSOME SINGLES WANT areas in Jhb, Sandton TO MEET YOU! and Airport. NEW STUNNING SINGLES: Airport Contact Johnny Administrative Assistant Beautiful reflexologist 24yr; Shuttle 082-328-3070 or handsome doctor 28yr; hand- 082-876-9042 – Chevrah Kadisha some millionaire 54yr; hand- Tranfers some millionaire 65yr; stunning from R150 LIFTS AVAILABLE Our Executive Fundraiser is looking for an airhostess 29yr; handsome tal- Reasonable, Reliable LIFTS FOR ANY REASON. ented musician 29yr; beautiful Areas: Sandton, Jhb, Airport, Administrative Assistant. MBL grad 49yr; beautiful exec SAM Centurion, Midrand & Pretoria. The candidate must be Computer literate and have a 55yr; handsome grad (bus (011) 728-5219 Reliable and trustworthy 083-627-8516 thorough knowledge of MS Word, Excel and knowl- owner) age 40yr; handsome CA Call Hymie 082-816-8178 edge of how to work on a database. 29yr; beautiful blonde librarian A-TAXI SERVICE The incumbent must have strong interpersonal skills, 28yr; stunning models 28 & Let Warren Pogorelsky chauffeur 51yr; handsome successful gent you to your destination in Jo’burg and the ability to handle all calls in a diplomatic and (retired) 64yr likes overseas and back only R100 round trip. professional manner. Must be able to work well travel; pretty teacher 33yr; hand- Tel: 082-399-6187 under pressure. some plumber (own bus) 46yr; beautiful librarian 23yr; hand- some successful attorney 37yr; BEST SERVICE Only short-listed applicants will be responded to. pretty beautician 36yr; pretty Modern spacious vehicle estate agent 40yr; advocates Pax 6 Interested candidates please forward 31, 45, 58yrs; handsome pilots Convenient and Safe a current c.v. to [email protected], 62, 36yrs; pretty hairdressers Transfers from A to B fax, 0866327774 or Private Bag X1, 26, 34, 58yrs; handsome estate Sandringham, 2131. agent (own bus) 60yr; hand- Pip Friedman SMILE-LEE'S LIFTS some engineer (own bus) 42yr; 083-267-3281 A reliable lift service. pretty financial consultant 48yr; Specialising in lifts to and from good looking BSc (pharmacy) [email protected] airports, shops, appointments, Social Worker – Arcadia 53yr; beautiful secretary 56yr; www.dialalift.co.za casinos and courier. good looking grad (own huge Call Charna 083-391-6612 BRIAN K LIFT co) 55yr; handsome musician Children’s Home SERVICE & COURIER 62yr; pretty vet 43yr; charismatic MISCELLANEOUS “AIRPORT SPECIAL R140” handsome (co owner) 49yr; A Social Worker is required at Arcadia children’s Secure, comfortable & safe. pretty grad 46yr; stunnning doc- Home in Sandringham. The successful applicant will Anywhere 24/7. (JHB – PTA) tors 28, 30, 35, 43, 49, 58, Call Brian on be part of a multi-disciplinary team. Group work is 62yrs; handsome attorneys 29, 072-366- 4262 an important aspect of this position. Experience in 33, 38, 46, 56, 68yrs – etc, etc, working with children and their families are an etc. MANY OTHER SINGLES essential requirement. Knowledge of the New TO MEET! CALL SANDY (011) 485- Children’s Act and experience in court work is a key 4034 / 082-357-3616 requirement of this position. Registration with SACSSP is essential. Knowledge of PESACH Jewish culture and religion would be an added advantage. TOIVELLING SERVICE For all your general & Pesach toivelling needs. Only short-listed applicants will be responded to. Contact: Shaina 082-562-6238 Interested candidates, please forward (011) 640-1246 a current C.V. to [email protected] or CAPE TOWN Attention HR Dept, Private Bag x1, SERVICES SHUTTLE Sandringham, 2131, or Fax 0866327774 HEALTH & BEAUTY COMING TO CAPE TOWN? TUITION & EDUCATION CHIROPODY AFFORDABLE Physiotherapist – CALLING ALL PEDICURES RATES. SENIOR CITIZENS Sandringham MANICURES AIRPORT WAXING TRANSFERS Are you having trouble Call Ruth now Sandringham Gardens, Home for older persons, FROM R180 understanding basic requires an enthusiastic and innovative physio (011) 616-4305 NEW operations/programmes therapist registered with the HPCSA to join a dynam- on your computer? ic Rehabilitation team. The candidate will be part of COMFORTABLE Dave (a senior citizen) a multi-disciplinary team that provides acute and VEHICLE can help you get started postoperative care for the residents and clients. PHONE ANDY 082-336-9780 or resolve your current problems Only short-listed applicants will be responded to. Call Dave on Interested candidates please forward a CHELSEA CHAUFFER My rates are fantastic, my car is (011) 787-3687 current c.v. to [email protected], fax, brand new. or 073-711-9394 or 0866327774 or Private Bag X1, All that is missing is a call from bethl@myconnection. Sandringham, 2131. you. co.za ABE 082-574-9010 08 - 15 April 2011 SA JEWISH REPORT 23 FOR SALE CLEANING PROPERTY VACANCIES CARPETS/FURNITURE/ ACCOMMODATION TO LET/SHARE APPLIANCES Confused about Hand Signs stamps headed SHABBY GREENSIDE a career? DININGROOM CHAIRS CURTAINS? Newly renovated, modern 4 Gordon Fraser upholstered. 1 bedroom cottage. CAREER for a winning destination “New England” Mahogany as We collect, clean, Avail immed. R5000 p.m. ASSESSMENTS new. R4000. (pic on request) renovate and re- 082-556-3594 ROBYN SASSEN the Soshanguwe School for 083-655-0101 install at fraction of (011) 646-7184 Using updated assessment children with special the replacement cost! tools for the 21st C EACH YEAR, the authorita- needs.” KOSHER View new ranges in HIGHLANDS NORTH tive international stamps For two years, Woolf Registered the privacy of your Renovated cottage website, StampNews.com worked on mooting the idea ROBBERG FISHERIES Psychologist & home. For practical, to let. celebrates what it deems to she had for an issue of PLETTENBERG BAY Self Development inspirational ideas (011) 440-0169 be the most important and postage stamps, which Kosher L’ Pesach. Coach & affordable prices. 076-686-8259 interesting stamps issued began as a large-scale art Place your orders early for meat Lance Levinrad the previous year. The year work. “Hand signs are such and fish. CALL MATTY ROUX 082 950 1434 GLENHAZEL 2010 was proclaimed Inter- a positive South African Contact for more info: INTERIORS Various n/f one, two and three email Karin 082-589-1318 national Year of Biodiver- innovation,” she told Setem- since 1981 bed flats and duplexes rental [email protected] sity by the United Nations; pe, a post office-published [email protected] JHB (011) 788-7079 from R4 500 per month close to many stamps focused on magazine last year. (044) 533-0597 or PTA (012) 543-1194 Ohr Somayach Glenhazel, (044) 501-2620 Medical aid rates • this issue. Woolf who is a doctoral Beth 082-450-7647 avail ASAP. Sundays also available Call Miriam 083-601-4334 For the first time ever, a student in art and anthro- MISCELLANEOUS during office hours. series of South African pology at Wits University, GENERAL EMPLOYMENT AVAILABLED stamps was included in the viewed the taxi hand signs FLAT AVAILABLE initiative’s top ten stamps of as an “exciting social arts in Summerhill, Sally's Alley SELF MOTIVATED, the year: the Taxi Hand investigation to embark on. Comfortable living modernised EXPERIENCED Sign stamps designed by It recognises the amazing… open plan, 2 bathroom flat over- BOOKKEEPER Susan Woolf and issued last nature of a people who have looking Wanderers golf course. Required by high fashion January. Susan Woolf’s Taxi Hand created a silent language Suitable for a couple. Fully fur- clothing company importer, The website awarded first Signs stamps, issued last across barriers of race, nished. Available for 6 months (in trendy Melrose Arch.) place to the French stamps January. colour and creed, to indicate from mid May 2011 Duties include: issued to support the vic- a destination within a most- Good contactable references Invoicing - Pastel tims of the earthquake in er where his prospective ly unstructured and often required Experience Haiti last November. It also client wants to go,” a state- dangerous mini-taxi trans- Phone: 083-246-4144 Payroll commended stamps from ment on the website said. port system. Nothing had VAT New Zealand, Switzerland, “The hand signals indicat- been documented before. I General Ledger to Trial CHELTONDALE Denmark, Romania; many ing different destinations are did most of my research Balance Renovated 2 bedroom apart- are marked by the extraordi- depicted on these stamps. through the taxi associations Customer Service ment fully furnished / unfur- nary design but simultane- The corresponding signs for and commuters in Gauteng.” nished to let. PA to Director Costings ously have a socially signifi- the blind are also included in • Susan Woolf will be Contact: Michael. cant orientation. the design and they can be speaking on “The Implica- 082-856-9914 Requirements “South Africa is probably felt by a blind person. The tions and Meanings of Taxi Pastel, Excel the only country in the world raised surface was achieved Signs” for Second Innings ATHOLL TWO BEDROOM Word, Power Point that has special hand signals by applying a layer of lac- Men’s Group, at Our Parents Two bedrooms, two bathroom Advantageous ground floor unit for rent. that indicate to the taxi driv- quer that contains soil from Home on April 12 at 14:30. Good communication skills HOME SERVICES Excellent security R7000 pm. BUILDING Call Tracy 082-330- 8080 Personal Skills/Attributes Self starting, motivated, RARE EARTH SEA POINT detail orientated, profes- There’s another Keilim WOODWORK cc BEACH FRONT sional, excellent telephone Plettenberg Bay (& Cape) Kosher, fully-equipped manner Fine-crafted Timber Homes & 2 b/r flat, sunny with undercover Renovations. Decks, Additions, Contact details Mikveh in Johannesburg parking. Rolene/Shawn Carpentry & Artwork. From MAY, R13 500/m Creation First RITA LEWIS “Jewish Johannesburg” and appointment has to be made w/prestige Portfolio & Cell: 082-460-8580 Communications cc as a result, is not used by beforehand. References. Since '97. (011) 447-2621 SINCE THE new Keilim many people - probably as For further information, (personally built by) truereligion@ Mikveh in Glenhazel was few people are aware of its call the caretaker, Norman Brandon Perkus APARTMENT IN mwebbiz.co.za written about in the Jewish existence. on 073-648-3141. He is also 083-311-7780 BANTRY ROAD Report, it has come to our At the moment however, most helpful with the load- [email protected] BRYANSTON VEHICLES attention that another one with the upcoming festival of ing and unloading of the which is not adjoining or Pesach around the corner, car, etc. Please note that CLEANING 1st Floor north facing WANTED 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms in associated to a ladies there is much coming and he is not there on Looking to BUY mikveh, exists in Northcliff going there. Wednesdays. ANY CARPET CLEANER sought after complex. 5 bedrooms from R200 or SELL a vehicle?? on the north-western side of The mikveh is situated at Use of the mikveh is free, Lounge suite from R150 Apartment is very spacious Contact Elan Sawitzky Johannesburg. 281 Pendoring Road, North- but a small donation towards 082-825-3080 Free deodorising PLUMBERS with lots of natural light and This is fairly far away cliff and is open virtually at its upkeep would be appreci- Free loose rug any time. However, an ated. in pristine condition. from the main part of Call: Nick 082-454-4815 IF YOU WANT TO The main bedroom (with BUY OR SELL A BETTER PESACH en-suite bath & shower) has STEAMCLEAN wooden flooring, built-in A VEHICLE AROUND THE WORLD 5 rooms from R199 cupboards, bay windows Contact: Lounge suite R149 incl. and has an access door Solly Kramer NEWS IN BRIEF Free deo, spot remove, onto a large balcony area, 082-922-3597 sanitise. Scotchgaurd and NO CLEMENCY FOR POLLARD, RUMSFELD SAYS curtains cleaned while they this balcony is also shared hang. by the lounge area. ARE YOU WASHINGTON - Former US Secretary est push for clemency for Pollard. Tel: 072-601-6677 The 2nd bedroom (with IMMIGRATING of Defence Donald Rumsfeld says Earlier in March, Senator John McCain (011) 024-8961 adjacent bathroom, with OVERSEAS AND Jonathan Pollard should not be granted (Republican Arizona) became the first 2nd bath) has wooden floor- WANT TO SELL clemency. active Republican politician to join the Rumsfeld, who served under recent calls for Pollard's release. REPAIRS ing and built-in cupboards; YOUR VEHICLE? PERSIAN Presidents Gerald Ford and George W Pollard, who has been imprisoned the remainder of the apart- CARPETS HANDYMAN Bush, said during an interview on since his 1985 arrest, was sentenced to ment is tiled. The complex Israel's Channel 10 that granting Pollard life in 1987 after being convicted of spy- Expert Reasonable rates and reliable. Prev. 20 yrs as “beeguy from is very well maintained with early release would send the wrong mes- ing on behalf of Israel. He is said to be ill. Cleaning and Repair beegone”. a pool area and beautiful sage. The most recent push for clemency Collection & Delivery Carl Meyer: 082-337-7237 gardens. Representative Michael Grimm has garnered substantive support (011) 783-3779 (Republican New York) this week among congressional Democrats, and a Located close to many Please Contact Solly Kramer became the first Republican in the US range of former officials of Republican TONY NICOLELLA schools such as Bryanston House of Representatives to back the lat- and Democratic administrations. (JTA) CARPETS High School, Bryan Even, 082-922-3597 Saint Stithians and The anytime French School and a 3 min walking distance to Bryanston shopping centre. EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGE Close to Sandton CBD, Bookkeeper /any administration position 40 years experience. Seeking employment. Call 082-464-5133 Randburg, easy access to main arterial highways. Seeking a reception position or nursery school assistant. Urgent. Please contact Ingrid Milner 072-226-1276. Access controlled security 28 year old male seeking any work preferably in sales. Brian 082-558-0154 Silver with guard 24/7. Available Very competent, efficient young man seeking employment - Admin, Data Capturing (Database), Reception, IT and Office Support. Willing to help with e- from 1 May for R8500 per mailing, typing and typing of CV's or wherever I can. Gavin Meltz: 072-232-7569. E-mail: [email protected] repair & month (this amount is incl. of all costs for water and Do you need help caring for your loved ones I am looking for part time (either morning, afternoon or babysitting ) aupair & care giving work. I have replating electricity). Montessori infant & nursery school teaching & a year of nursing. Car & drivers license. Nicole Heiman 084-284-6452 [email protected] Lady looking for an admin receptionist position. Fully computer literate can do all general office work. Exp in all Microsoft Office Programs. Please call (011) 334-1102 Contact Brian: me on 084-904-8328 or e-mail [email protected] 073-517-4789, or 082-473-6040 [email protected] People seeking employment may place a free advert of 20 words maximum. Send wording to britt@sajewishreport or fax: 086-634-7935 24 SA JEWISH REPORT 08 - 15 April 2011

Holding a signed bat at Torah Academy’s “Extreme Makeover” business breakfast, are: Rabbi Shabsy Chaiton, administrator of Torah Academy; former triple Springbok (cricket, hockey and indoor hockey) Mandy Yachad; Menachem Kay, a member of the “Extreme Makeover” project team; and former Springbok cricket cap- tain and cricket administrator Dr Ali End of an era for Free State Bacher, who was the guest speaker. Maccabi Stag Club Ali Bacher walks down the JACK MILNER tained the SA Maccabi hockey side against Free State. Solly also represented his ‘memory pitch’ at breakfast AT THE recent Maccabi Sports dinner in province in hockey and badminton. Bloemfontein, Solly Kroll was presented During this time the club hosted virtually STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH BY give”. with honorary life membership of Maccabi every well-known sports personality that SUZANNE BELLING Mandy Yachad, introducing Bacher, said SA and in a short speech, he entertained his was available. Solly was tireless in enticing the speaker’s real name was Aaron - like the audience with some of the antics over the them to the Free State to share their experi- BUSINESS PEOPLE at the Torah high priest, he loved peace and pursued years at the Maccabi Stag, in Bleoemfontein. ences and divulge some of their more titillat- Academy “Extreme Makeover” breakfast peace, having trained young cricketers in There were even times he got into trouble ing experiences on and off the field. Many to coincide with the Cricket World Cup and Lenasia during apartheid. with his rabbi, but last year Maccabi Stag in were amazed at how he managed to do this! now raking place at the Indian subconti- “Had he not participated in the rebel Bloemfontein finally shut down. It had a Solly recalls the annual Maccabi Sports nent, experienced the rare opportunity of tours, South Africa would not have been colourful history and Vivienne Mofsowitz festivals, where players of all the sporting sharing this occasion with three former able to bridge the gaps created during that took us down memory lane. disciplines came together from all the cen- Jewish Springbok cricketers – Dr Ali time.” Thursday, November 18, 2010 was the cul- tres in the country, where they played com- Bacher, the guest speaker; his nephew Yachad said the cause of Torah Academy mination of a significant era in the history of petitively against each other. This was Adam Bacher and Mandy Yachad, triple was “very close to my heart”. With his wife, the Bloemfontein Jewish community. The where the SA Maccabi hockey side was Springbok (for cricket, hockey and indoor Pam, being the deputy principal of the final Maccabi Stag meeting was held at the selected. hockey). Primary School, and all five of his children Hilton Bowling Club with Cliff Garrun, Talking about the highlights of his While making no predictions on the out- previously or currently in this school, he newly-elected chairman of Maccabi SA and involvement, Solly remembers the visit of come of the World Cup, Ali Bacher took the urged continued support. Max Klass, chairman of Johannesburg the 1970 All Blacks Rugby Tour when all the guests down “memory pitches” in his career “Extreme Makeover” project manager Maccabi Stag attending. players pitched up at the meeting - consum- as a cricketer, captain and administrator, and convener of the breakfast, Adrienne It was an emotional closing, yet as ing over 370 pints of draught beer! especially since 1991 “when, for the first time Kay, stated: “No Jewish child is turned away Chairman Solly Kroll confided, it was cer- Some names stand out: Eric Rowan, Sam ever, we had integrated sport and took part from Torah Academy because of the finan- tainly timely, considering financial re- Merwis and Gordon Forbes in 1968; Bob in the 1992 Cricket World Cup”. cial limitations of the school. straints that the ageing and dwindling Courtney in 1975, the 1970 All Black team; Bacher said, that while in Australia en She said in January of last year, the Bloemfontein community is now facing. Tommy Bedford, Chick Henderson and route to the World Cup match in Sydney, he “Extreme Makeover – School Edition” was Karlie Rosendorff was the first chairman Doug Watson in the same year; “Fiery Fred” stopped off at Adelaide and spent two hours launched to raise funds for the development of Free State Maccabi in the early 1940s. Truman in 1976; Morne du Plessis (Solly with Sir Donald Bradman, acknowledged as of the various TA campuses. Siggy Tiger, a member of that committee recalls standing on a chair to present him the greatest cricketer of all time. Rabbi Yossy Goldman of Sydenham Shul formed the Stag Club after hearing about the with a gift - and the ensuing photo being Bacher discussed some of the South added in his message on a video, that Torah very successful club in Springs. published in the Volksblad); South Africa’s African cricket personalities. Academy was known as the school with a In 1973 Harold Melzer took over Stag with great wing, Syd Nomis in 2009; Hugh Bladen He paid tribute to former President Nelson neshama, with graduates successful as busi- Solly Kroll as vice chairman and in 1980 attended three times; Jackie McGlew in 1995; Mandela to whom South Africa owed its ness people, professionals and rabbis. “If Solly took over as chairman. Dave Baumann in 1991 Roy McClean and Eddie Barlow. sports integration - “an extraordinary man everybody could pay their school fees, we became Solly’s loyal, hardworking and sup- In 2006 Naas Botha, Joel Stransky and Tex who will not forget, but who is able to for- would be on a good !” portive vice at this time, with Norman Texiera were hosted; a few of the last few Horwitz as treasurer. speakers including Ollie le Roux, Clive Dave who passed away recently was also Barker and local resident, Chris Ashman the unofficial “catering manager”. Norman who enthralled members at the last Stag Horwitz was the treasurer when Solly took function with a most interesting, talk on The over Stag and in the early ‘90s this position Ghurkas. was taken over by Sefton Mofsowitz, to Bloemfontein Maccabi Stag will be sorely whom Solly often turned to for assistance. missed in this Free State city, from the few Solly, a sporting legend in Bloemfontein in remaining Jewish members to the many, his own right, became a member of Free many gentiles. This was an opportunity for State Maccabi at 24 in 1958. In 1959 he cap- true friendship and camaraderie to flourish.

The 1970 All Blacks rugby team at the Bloemfontein Maccabi Stag. Joshua is geared up for big fight JACK MILNER classes was a class in submission wrestling, organised by Brad “The MIXED MARTIAL arts exponent Godfather” Bloch. Joshua Muller will be up against “After that I found out the dif- it at Carnival City next Thursday ference between WWE and real when he comes up against Francis fighting and threw my WWE Kabulu, a Congolese fighter who ambitions out of the window.” lives and trains in Cape Town. From the age of 19 Joshua start- Joshua, who turned 22 on ed to throw his muscle behind his March 21, will be having his sec- training and although he teaches ond professional fight. He ended part time, he is now a fully profes- his amateur career at the end of sional MMA exponent. last year and in February had his “For me every fight is another first bout as a pro. He came up step towards the ultimate goal and against Mike de Bruyn from East that is to fight in the US in London and won it by submission. Joshua Muller Ultimate Fighting Championship While Joshua completed his will take on (UFC). They control MMA in the final two years of schooling at US and the best fighters in the Eden College in Johannesburg, he Francis Kabulu in world fight for them. spent most of his time at Yeshiva a mixed martial “This next fight is certainly College. “Actually I spent most of arts bout at that. He is a talented kick boxer. my career at Yeshiva College on Carnival City next He is undefeated and I am unde- the volleyball court,” he Thursday night. feated. Whoever wins this fight remarked. moves up and whoever loses Joshua says he started out in martial moves down. It’s very important strategi- arts with things like taekwondo. “I started cally for both of us.” off wanting to do pro-wrestling but never In terms of preparation for the fight, had an avenue to train for it. I started Joshua has been training five days a week doing muay thai and following one of our with two rest days.