05-December-2013 - SA Jewish Report

Friday 6 December 2013 / 3 Tevet 5774Volume 17 – Number 43Of giantdragonsspewingflame andDan Popper.(page 13)Jewishsouth africanReportwww.sajewishreport.co.zaPhoto: Ilan OssendryverPondering SA’s futureA panel discussion hosted by the Union of Orthodox Synagogues on Tuesday at Summer Place in Johannesburg, pondered South Africa’s situation andwhat needs to be done for its future. In the photograph are panelists Trevor Manuel, minister in the presidency in charge of the National DevelopmentPlan; Stephen Grootes (moderator); Tony Leon, former leader of the Democratic Alliance and the official Opposition, and former SA ambassador toArgentina; and Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein. See story on page 3.Happy Holidays to all ourreaders!This is our last issue for2013. We wish our readers,stakeholders and advertisers apleasant and safe end-of-yearbreak. Our next print issue isout on January 17, 2014. Ourwebsite will run as normalthrough the holiday period.‘Cultural’ alternative toconversion is a bad ideaIf someone is uninterested infollowing a minimal conversionroute, why would they beinterested in “affirming” aJewish identity at all?Many Jewish happeningsin Cape Town this holidayAn era ends in Jhb as‘Uncle Stan’ sells upAccept people withdisabilities as fullmembers of societyWhen the beach doesn’t beckon,there is much to occupy visitorsto Cape Town over the holidayperiod. Jewish Report highlightsa few happenings.“I feel sentimental about sellingthe properties off. They areheritage buildings, so I knowthe history will have to bepreserved. The sale marks theend of an era for our family.”“We end up setting up anexclusionary community whichbecomes unattractive to theyoung people we’re trying toattract.”6.10 1511RAMAT GANINVEST NOW - SUBSTANTIAL SUSTAINED GROWTHASHDODTEL AVIVBAT YAM011 731 0300www.firzt.co.zaGreat location overlooking the Mediterraneanand Hayarkon Park - Yours from NIS 2.6milCome home to the sunset over the seaafter a long day - Yours from NIS 1.8milHAYARKON 96: Tel Aviv’s most desirableaddress. Only 8 Apartments available.New residential neighbourhood only10 min from Tel Aviv - Yours from NIS 2.0milwww.faire.co.il

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014 News SA JEWISH REPORT 3Manuel, Leon, Goldstein ponder S. Africa’s futureMinister Trevor Manuel; moderator Stephen Grootes; former Opposition LeaderAmbassador Tony Leon; and Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein discussing South Africa’s future.STEVEN GRUZDWhat will South Africa be like in 20 years’ time?And what has been learnt from two decades ofdemocracy?These questions were considered at a livelydiscussion organised by the Union of OrthodoxSynagogues between Minister in the PresidencyTrevor Manuel, former opposition leaderAmbassador Tony Leon and Chief Rabbi WarrenGoldstein, in the sumptuous surrounds of SummerPlace in Johannesburg, on Tuesday.Deftly moderated by Stephen Grootes,presenter of the Midday Report on Talk Radio702 and 567 CapeTalk and journalist for TheDaily Maverick, the topic at this well-attendedexecutive fundraiser was “A 20/20 Perspectiveon Democracy: 1994 – 2034”.Leon cast himself as a “critical admirer” ofSouth Africa’s National Development Plan, butasked if we would live by its consequences. Manuelresponded that all South Africans neededto take responsibility to implement the NDP.Rabbi Goldstein lauded the country’s vibrantdemocracy and the strength of its institutions,and asserted the importance of a free press forhealthy debate. He said that freedom impliedthat people could improve their lives and looktoward the future.When asked about political will to curb corruption,Manuel averred that it always took twosides (both public and private) to have a corruptrelationship. He said: “There must be consequencesfor corrupt actions,” which required“a strong, independent judiciary, a functioningcriminal justice system and exemplary behaviourby public representatives”.Leon, however, pointed out that a former MPimplicated in “Travelgate” the abuse of parliamentaryair travel concessions) now sat in theCabinet.Rabbi Goldstein called for “compassionategovernment” with a sense of urgency to alleviatehuman suffering caused by corruption and poorservice delivery, and an environment where thehuman spirit could thrive because basic needswere met.On education, Manuel and Leon both agreedthat the quality of the head teacher and degreeof parental involvement were vital factors indetermining school performance, and both acknowledgedthe negative effects teacher unionscould have.Rabbi Goldstein proposed that South Africashould consider a radical solution, namely usingvouchers to empower parents and push schoolsto do better.Manuel asserted that parents were alreadyvoting with their feet, and that vouchers wouldnot cover considerable school transport costs.When questioned on South African-Israelrelations, Manuel replied glibly that diplomaticties existed and that the Government “does notretain an uncritical relationship with any statein the world”.On South Africa’s relationshipwith Israel, Manuel saiddiplomatic ties existed andthat the Government “doesnot retain an uncriticalrelationship with any state inthe world”.Turning to politics, Leon likened the internalbattles in the ANC to “a circular firing squad,shooting at each other”. He thought JuliusMalema’s Economic Freedom Fighters could tapinto disaffected black voters, potentially loweringsupport for both the ANC and the DemocraticAlliance in the 2014 elections.Manuel reflected that populists didn’t alwaysget the votes on poling day. He also noted howoverstretched smaller parties struggled to makean impact in parliamentary committee meetings,which undermined effective parliamentaryoversight.The Chief Rabbi ended proceedings by suggestingreforms to provide for more direct electionof leaders, and urged the Jewish communityto register and vote as their civic duty.For all your designrequirements...T: 083 460 3633E: info@designbandits.co.zaW: www.designbandits.co.zaDesign BanditsAs we light our Chanukah candles, the Union ofJewish Women thanks the public for so generouslyhelping to light up the lives of those less fortunatethan ourselves.By volunteering to deliver Kosher Mobile Meals,assisting at our Soup Kitchens, donating to ourGranny-and-Child Headed Households or the RapeCrisis Clinics we assist, helping at our AfterCareCentre and Creches in Alex, donating so generously to our World MitzvahDay Project, or simply by being a member of the Union of Jewish Women,you have helped to light up so many lives.Thank You!Happy ChanukahUnion of Jewish Women Johannesburg011 648-1053ujw@mweb.co.zaOwn an apartment in a new Raanana development!We are promoting the sale ofapartments in fast growing areasin Israel, excellent & reliablemanagement.SA Cell: +27 8284-22-003 | cell +972-54-333-2525 | e-mail ari@hold.co.il | website: www.hold.co.il

24 SA JEWISH REPORTCommunity News 6 December 2013 –- 17 08 January June 2012 2014Auerbach’s legacy of openness and humility, lives onROBYN SASSENCommenting on how the Strugglenever ends, executive director ofthe Foundation for Human Rights,Yasmin Sooka, guest speaker for the10th Franz Auerbach Memorial lecturelast Friday at Beit Emanuel inParktown, said: “I loved and respectedFranz for his work ethic, opennessand humility. His principleswere hate nothing but hate. Be intolerantof nothing but intolerance.”Speaking on the “Role of Religionin Social and Political Reconciliation”,she said Auerbach had beena contemporary of her father’s; togetherunder the yoke of apartheid,they had sought to bridge divides.“I met Franz in the late 1980s inthe formation of the South AfricanChapter of the World Conference ofReligion and Peace.” She describedthe WCRP as an umbrella organisationfor religious activists aimingto promote world peace. Muslim,Hindu, traditional African andChristian bodies and the SA JewishBoard of Deputies, collaborated.“In the South Africa of apartheid,Franz’s vision of a common humanitywas exceptional. We were confrontedwith the morality of an immoraltime. In 1996, the Truth andReconciliation Commission was establishedto deal with the apartheidpast. One of the issues was the roledifferent sectors in our country hadplayed in human rights, religiousorganisations in particular.“While some religious organisationsdid not accept the invitationto present at the TRC, 41 did. Eachreflected on how their communityhad suffered under apartheid, howit was involved in the anti-apartheidstruggle and how it was contributingto reconciliation.”Under the WCRP she realised“doctrines divide, but humanityunites”, a mindset influenced bythe 1985 Kairos document, a blackThis huge menorah a fittingChanukah beaconPhoto: Ilan OssendryverYasmin Sooka with Margaret Auerbach, daughter of the late Franz Auerbach.theological response to apartheid.The Religious Charter had beenestablished in 1992. Comprisinginitially 25 representatives, it wasthe first interfaith gathering of itstime. “It represented the basis forthe right to religious freedom.”She mentioned the pivotal rolethat Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris played.Last week Friday night in itsDinner on Main initiative,Sydenham Shul’s shtibl / SpiritShulfor young adults under the steerageof Rabbi Yehuda Stern, hostedThuli Madonsela, South Africa’sPublic Protector. Pictured are RabbiYossy Goldman, Rabbi YehudaStern and Thuli Madonsela.Photo by Simon HochschildJumping ahead to glance at contemporarytimes, she noted; “SouthAfrica is now the most unequal societyin the world.”Sooka spoke of unemployment,and also of unemployable levels.Our society is still wracked by violenceand corruption on public andprivate levels.”She mentioned the Protectionof Information Bill and the rise ofxenophobia. “Values of the Constitutionare under siege.“So, what role can religious communitiesplay in this? Can theycome together as they had underapartheid? There is always hope, inspite of new forms of intolerance.”She mentioned the rise of suchatrocities as the so-called “correctiverape” of black lesbians.“Can we change South Africa?If we don’t, what will we leave ourchildren?”In concluding, Sooka reiteratedthat education was the single mostimportant thing in our country.“We must talk to each other.The euphoric 1990s are gone. Ourdoctrines may differ, but in theend there is a communal threadof respecting the dignity of otherpeople. The Struggle never ends.The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.”Corruption fighter Thuli Madonselaa dinner guest at Sydenham ShulPhoto: Ilan OssendryverRabbi Michael Katz of Chabad Savoy in the hoist, lights the giant menoraherected on Rivonia Road outside Sandton City, last week. The event,masterminded by Rabbi Katz, featured the closure of Rivonia Road to traffic andwas attended by some 600 supporters.Community VoicesEventually the drama will die down...Officially, e-tolls on Gauteng freeways came into operation on December 3. The SA Jewish Report askedselected readers if they believed the general ill-feeling of unfairness about its implementation wouldlast, or whether the public would eventually accept e-tolls as a reality.Steve Lurie, chairmanof South African Unionfor Progressive Jewry,Johannesburg: “Eventuallythe tolls will be acceptedbut not before much moreprotest action. Many peopleare starting to go on leaveand will not feel the impactuntil the new year. Many likemyself will not be registeringfor e-tolls and getting thetag but will let them sendaccounts which we will dragout as much possible.”Marcelle Bloom-Ravid,city councillor for Ward 73,Johannesburg: “I think theprotests will go on for anotherfew months or at least untilthe court cases are finalised.Then, unfortunately thedrama may die down. It is notillegal not to buy a tag. I hopepeople understand that.”

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014 News SA JEWISH REPORT 5Jews feature on the Sunday Times RichList and the Top Earners ListIn conversation at the Absa Jewish Report Achievers Awards earlier this year, 2013honoree Patrice Motsepe, honoree Natie Kirsh, and past honoree Stephen Koseff.ANT KATZThe Sunday Times Rich List 2013 was publishedlast weekend and, again, South African Jewishnames are prominent - comprising some 26 percent of the top 100 wealthiest and 11 per cent ofthe top South African earners for the year.The annual Sunday Times Rich List surveytends to understate the wealth and income ofSouth African Jewry:• On the wealth side, this is largely becauseof the tendency of some of the wealthiestmembers of the community not to list theircompanies and to invest overseas; and• On the income side many among the communityalso earn income from their overseasholdings.The wealthiestThe author has been analysing the Sunday TimesRich List for the past five years and comparablestatistics will be available on the Jewish Report’swebsite - www.sajr.co.za.Among the wealthiest shareholders in SouthAfrica, 26 Jews appear in the top 100 list and 50in the total published list of 263. These represent26 and 19 per cent of the totals respectively;the local Jewish community representsjust 0,0014 per cent of the total South Africanpopulation.As this list covers wealth as the value of sharesowned on the JSE, this would be understatedas some of South Africa’s wealthiest Jewish individualsand companies choose to stay private.The list does not include, for example:• Natie Kirsh - believed by Bloomberg to bethe wealthiest South African.• Families such as the Samsons, Lubners,Kaplans, Kroks, and many more.• Donny Gordon and family - his daughter,Wendy Appelbaum, is said by Forbes to bethe wealthiest woman and biggest philanthropistin Africa.As it is not the Jewish way to flaunt their‘Enough is enough’ Minister Xingwanasays about abuseROBYN SASSENMinister of Women, Children andPeople with Disabilities Lulama (Lulu)Xingwana, has called time on “thescourge of abuse” of any nature,saying emphatically that enough isenough.Last Friday she told youngstersin the Glenhazel Shul complex that“every day must be a day withoutviolence”. She was visiting with ChiefRabbi Warren Goldstein in an initiativelinked to the United Nations’ 16 Daysof Activism on No Violence againstWomen and Children.“Don’t look away,” she told theassembled young people. “If you suspectsomeone is being abused - verbally,physically, sexually in any way- tell someone else. It’s a scourgeand it needs to be eradicated.”wealth, Jewish Report will not publish thecomplete lists, but among the notable informationin the Sunday Times survey, is that thehighest ranked Jewish entity is the AckermanFamily Trust at number 11 with R4,8 billion,and Adrian Gore of Discovery hot on their heelsin 12th place with R4,2 billion. Noteworthy isthat Gore, the founder and CEO of Discovery,has seen his shares’ value climb from R2,1 billionin 2011 to R2,7 billion last year, effectivelydoubling over two years.Top earnersIn 2012 it was the turn of the bankers to pocketthe big salaries, with Investec executives toppingthe bill. The company’s CEO, Stephen Koseff,whose income ranking dropped from fourthplace in 2011 to eighth in 2012, having taken aknock of seven per cent to just R56 million forthat year, and being billed as the highest paidbanker in South Africa, has this year fallen offthe 263 high-earners list completely (althoughhe is listed as the 75th wealthiest with R438-million).Read the South AfricanJewish Report onlinewww.sajr.co.zaHIGHLANDS NORTHFor personal serviceand advice on all yourpaint, hardware andbuilding materialrequirements.467 Louis Botha Ave, Highlands NorthTel: (011) 440-5868/786-0162jackhi@ibi.co.zaDURBAN JEWISH SOCIAL SERVICESINCORPORATING JEWEL HOUSEHEAD OFSOCIAL SERVICESThe present head, who has with love and care attended formany years to those in our community who are in need, iscalling it a day.We therefore seek the services of an experienced social workerto head DJSS and to act as Director of our residential homeof between 12 and 15 members of our community who havespecial needs.The successful applicant must have:• Relevant degree in social work with a minimum of 10 yearsexperience• Registered with the SA Council for Social Work Professions• Provide social work services; assessments; counsellingservices; supportive services and crisis intervention• Experience in mental health needs would be an advantage• Ability to prepare case presentations• Ability to manage and motivate staff• Good writing skills• Computer literacySuitable applicants should apply, in writing, with a concise CV to theChairman of DJSS at P O Box 50833, Musgrave, 4062.Interviews will be held in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape TownDJSS 20x4.indd 12013/11/27 2:32 PM

26 SA JEWISH REPORTOpinion News and Analysis 6 December 2013 –- 17 08 January June 2012 2014south africanJewish ReportThere must beconsequences forcorruptionAs the year 2013 draws to a close, it is a chance to look backat issues that characterised South Africa in that period anddetermine what needs attention in 2014. A breakfast paneldiscussion hosted by the Union of Orthodox Synagogues onTuesday at Summer Place in Johannesburg, where three veteranpublic figures shared their views, attempted to do this. Italso gave clues as to what is bothering South African citizensgenerally about the state of our public affairs.The panel consisted of Trevor Manuel, minister in thepresidency in charge of the National Development Plan; TonyLeon, former leader of the Democratic Alliance and the officialOpposition, and former SA ambassador to Argentina;and Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein, who assumed office 10years ago.The discussion opened on an upbeat note. The 200-oddmainly Jewish business people in the audience enjoyed thelight-hearted banter between Manuel and Leon, who hadboth spent many years in parliament and other top politicalpositions, and had many stories to share. The chief rabbiadded other anecdotes.Then the issue of government corruption was raised. Itbrought an instant, palpable sobering up of the atmospherein the room. Questions were addressed mainly to Manuel,who comes from President Jacob Zuma’s inner political circle.What people wanted to hear was a fierce denunciation ofthis scourge and a clear determination to wipe it out.Sadly, he did not confront the issue head on, giving ratherevasive answers to pointed questions, which caused noticeableirritation in the room.Corruption - not only in this country, but worldwide - is onpeople’s minds a lot these days. In South Africa it has beenparticularly highlighted with Public Protector Thuli Madonselainvestigating public money spent on the president’s privatehomestead, Nkandla.Well-known political cartoonist Zapiro has portrayed heras a knight galloping on her horse towards Nkandla, leavingbehind bumbling state officials trying to stop her. What a sadimage for our country!Other alleged corruption affairs in the press lately, concernthe apparent bungling of an R800 million tender givento Sekunjalo Marine Services by Agriculture, Forestry andFisheries Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson; and the damningreport on former Communications Minister Dina Pule forhanding out largesse to her lover, Phosane Mngqibisi - shehas since been demoted to an ordinary MP, but not fired.And there have been numerous cases of people - especiallyin the third tier of government - getting fired for fraud andmismanagement, then reappearing in another, more lucrativeposition. Not to mention the “tenderpreneur” phenomenon.All of this is injecting a creeping cynicism into the psycheof South Africans, something we can ill afford with the hugechallenges we face in our country. Once corruption becomesan acceptable part of society’s fabric, where people don’t evenblink when they have to pay a bribe to a traffic cop or anotherofficial, regarding it as standard fare, it is incredibly difficultto reverse the trend.Have we reached that point? Probably not yet, since thereare still so many people who are demanding it be tackled headon, and believe it can be.All the panelists lamented the fact that there seem to beno consequences for people who engage in such wrongdoing.Leon referred to the notorious “Travelgate” affair, in whichmembers of Parliament who had abused their parliamentarytravel allowances were caught out. Sadly, he said, not onlywere they not sent to jail, but they continued serving in Parliament,and one was even appointed to the Cabinet.For things to be turned around, it is crucial that there areserious legal consequences, whether the perpetrator is at thelevel of a traffic officer, or the president of the country.Is this likely to happen? The only way it will, is if the citizensactively demand it. Elections are coming up in a few months’time and politicians will be making all sorts of promises togarner votes.For the ordinary South African, the vote is his main tool forinfluencing matters. He must use it wisely. Let’s make 2014the year we call corrupt government to account.– Geoff Sifrin, Editor‘Cultural’ Jewish alternativeto conversion is a bad ideaHAROLD BERMANEFRAT, WEST BANKThe reputable car dealer’s advertisement in the local paperscreams “Brand New Mercedes - Only $500!”You get excited but think it sounds too good to be true. Uponcloser inspection, it is: The car dealer is offering only the hubcapsof the Mercedes for $500. If you want the whole car, it willcost the standard price. Suddenly the car dealer doesn’t sound soreputable.You would never find such an ad because no car dealer in hisright mind would make such an offer. Yet, hubcaps masqueradingas the car is exactly what Steven M Cohen and Rabbi Kerry Olitzkyoffer in their recent JTA op-ed titled “Conversion shouldn’tbe the only path to joining the Jewish people”.Cohen and Olitzky bemoan that as of now, there’s only one wayfor a non-Jew to become Jewish - that is conversion - and offeran alternative they call “Jewish Cultural Affirmation”. Under thisscheme, those who are not interested in Judaism as a religion,and even those who follow a different religion, could choose theJewish Cultural Affirmation path.To achieve this lofty status, they suggest that the candidateundertake a web-based self-study course along with undefined“experiences of lived Jewishness”. Candidates could sample Jewishtopics ranging from politics to comedy to social action andtext study.They then would be eligible to receive a “certificate of membershipin the Jewish people”, much like my certificate from theAmerican Legion.As someone who is married to a convert, who has spent thebetter part of his professional life as a Jewish communal leaderand counselled a wide range of sincere people in intermarriageswho seek entry into the Jewish people, I find such a proposalshallow, impractical and offensive.To reduce membership in the Jewish people to a shallow “culturalaffirmation” completely misses the point of being Jewish.To put it bluntly, herring is not a religion.We are a people who, despite our small size, have for 3 500years had a critical mission in the world. As Christian scholarPaul Johnson wrote in his seminal “History of the Jews”: “TheJews stand at the centre of the perennial attempt to give humanlife the dignity of a purpose.”Judaism addresses the most pressing life-and-death issues,teaches us how to infuse the sacred into all of existence andpresses us to strive to become a “light to the nations”. To reduceall of that to a mere cultural affirmation is to say that the mostprofound elements of Judaism are unimportant.The proposal is impractical. People who wish to convert canMideast on Netanyahu, Pope agendaAmos Ben Gershom/GPO/Flash90and will do so. The myriad approaches to American Jewish lifeoffer a range of conversion options, from traditional conversionsthat require years of preparation and a commitment to all of themitzvoth, to conversions that can be completed in a matter ofmonths with minimal lifestyle changes.If someone is uninterested in following even a minimal conversionroute, why would they be interested in “affirming” a Jewishidentity at all?And just what would such an affirmation accomplish? Therealready are a number of non-Jews in intermarriages who areattempting to raise Jewish children, who serve on synagogueboards, and who observe some Jewish holidays with their Jewishspouses even as they celebrate Christmas and go to church.Jewish educational opportunities are readily available to them.Rabbis and other Jewish leaders often praise their efforts.All this has happened without an affirmation process or completioncertificate. Creating a new process is superfluous; it woulddo nothing to change the reality on the ground.Finally, Cohen and Olitzky’s proposal is offensive. In my experience,Jewish leaders who propose novel conversion proceduresalmost never consult with the end users - converts themselves- who could tell them from deep personal experience what is andisn’t needed.The responses of converts with whom I shared Cohen and Olitzky’sproposal ranged from befuddled to offended. Most of all,they just didn’t get why something like this is needed. Neitherdo I.A “Jewish Cultural Affirmation” track would undermine thehard work of sincere converts who have chosen to transformtheir lives and souls in joining the Jewish people. To offer JewishCultural Affirmation as an equally viable alternative to traditionalconversion is to cheapen the process of conversion itself. Andif cultural affirmation is offered merely as a second-class track,then it will do nothing except sow confusion.Given the current tenuous state of American Jewry, so-calledJewish leaders and funders no doubt will gravitate toward newschemes dressed up as “solutions” to the challenges of Jewishdemography.But as the recent Pew Research Centre’s survey of US Jewsshows, the race to water down Jewish life has only weakened it.Rather than throwing more good money after bad, we should focusinstead on what makes a Jewish life worth living. (JTA)Harold Berman, the co-author of “Doublelife: One Family, Two Faithsand a Journey of Hope”, is the former executive director of the JewishFederation of Western Massachusetts. He and his wife, Gayle, are thefounders of J-Journey.org, a support system for intermarried familieswho seek to become observant Jews.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu talks with Pope Francis during their meeting at the Vatican, on Monday. On the agenda also was theMiddle East situation as well as a proposed visit by the Pope to Israel.The Vatican said in a statement that the talks focused on the “complex political and social situation in the Middle East, with particular referenceto the reinstatement of negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, expressing hope that a just and lasting solution respecting the rights ofboth parties may be reached as soon as possible.”During the meeting, Netanyahu reiterated the invitation to the Pope to visit Israel that was extended earlier by Israeli leaders. Media have reportedthat the Pope may make the trip in late May, but Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi said no date for such a visit had been set.

ADVERTORIALRetrospective journey intothe art of Samuel BakBak’s artwork reflects his experiences as a child during the war. His art exploresthe randomness of human destiny and the luck of chance that granted him lifeOn November 11, 2013 the South African JewishMuseum in Cape Town opened a retrospectiveexhibition of the highest calibre. SamuelBak, a world renowned artist, for the first time,presents a retrospective exhibition of his life’swork.Bak was born in Vilna, Lithuania in 1933.At the age of eight he was caught up in thehorrors of the Holocaust as the Nazis invadedLithuania. He and his family were forced intothe Jewish Ghetto, where at the age of nine, heheld his first exhibition.By sheer chance, luck, coincidence, and theresoluteness of his parents, he managed tosurvive the war. Although his grandparentsand father were killed, Samuel and his motherstayed alive, twice being sheltered by caringnuns in the St Catherine Convent of the RomanCatholic Benedictine order who endangeredtheir own existence by hiding them.Bak’s artwork reflects his experiences asa child during the war. His art explores therandomness of human destiny and the luckof chance that granted him life. Racism,intolerance, discrimination and genocide arethe hidden subjects of Bak‘s paintings. Heis a conceptual artist who uses visual metaphors,allegories and symbols to encompassthese universal demons, as he searchers for avisual language with which to describe man’sinhumanity to man. These are pertinent andimportant themes given the history of ourcountry and continent.Since liberation, Samuel Bak has felt alifelong urge to give visual testimony. Hispaintings are acts of remembrance. His styleis inspired by surrealism with the differencethat, while surrealism is based on fantasy,Bak’s paintings deal with real-life experiences.But the chief characteristic of Bak’s art is thecontradiction of the aesthetic beauty of thehorrors which he metaphorically represents inhis paintings.This exhibition is of great personal importanceto Samuel Bak. The majority of the SouthAfrican Jewish community are decedents ofLithuanian Jewry, including his direct relatives.The utter destruction of Lithuanian Jewryduring the Holocaust has meant that theSouth African Jewish community is the closestremaining link Bak has to the community andculture of his childhood. This is why Bak haschosen the SA Jewish Museum as the venue ofthe first full retrospective of his entire artisticcareer. In a career of over 50 years, he has hadnumerous exhibitions in major museums,galleries, and universities throughout Europe,Israel, and the United States. For this exhibitionhe has personally curated the 40 works ondisplay, which include works from his personalcollection which have never previously beenexhibited.The SAJM is honoured to be the venue ofsuch a seminal exhibition. It is our task tomake his art known among the survivors of theRwandan genocide, refugees from the Africancontinent, and all those who have been affectedby the horrors of racism, xenophobia andgenocide.RetrospectiveJourneyinto the art ofSAMUELBAKSouth AfricanJewish Museum11 November –28 February 201488 Hatfield Street, Gardens,Cape Town, South Africa 8001Phone: +21-465-1546Email: info@sajewishmuseum.co.zawww.sajewishmuseum.co.zaSun to Thurs: 10.00am - 5.00pmFri: 10.00am - 2.00pmClosed Saturdays and Jewish HolidaysOpen Public HolidaysYellow. 1992. Oil on linen. Image courtesy Pucker Gallery

The advantage of knowingSpend wisely over theDecember breaks we approach the December holiday season, let us takethe time to reflect on the year gone by, the year ahead,and for the lucky ones, who will be going on vacation for awell-deserved break with family or friends, let us not forgetto manage our finances to avoid an unpleasant start to 2014.Here are some tips from Liberty Retail CE Steven Braudo on howyou can be a 2014 money savvy champion.Prioritise your spendingRemember that essential bills such as the bond or car repayments,travel expenses, school fees and debit orders will still need tobe paid. Salaries normally get paid earlier than the norm duringDecember.Pay these off first, and then develop a plan on how to spend orsave what’s left. If you will be receiving a year-end bonus fromwork, you should still stick to this plan.Plan for your holidayIf you are planning on going away, it is best to use some of yoursavings or bonus for your holiday, as opposed to getting yourselfinto debt to pay for your holiday. If you must use debt to financeyour holiday, ensure that you are able to pay it off easily withoutover-extending your budget.Have an entertainment budgetYou’ve worked hard all year; you deserve a break and somedowntime and entertainment with friends and family. Developan entertainment plan and budget and stick to it. Take turns withfriends and share the expenses. Do not start using money meantfor other expenses on entertainment. Know what your limit is anddo not exceed it.Plan for the festivitiesA planned itinery can help you manage the holiday budget.This way you’ll know in advance all the fun things you want todo and what you will be spending your money on. For parentswith young children, your plans may be derailed here and there- it’s absolutely okay to change your plans slightly to make themhappy, but keep it within your budget.Spending on credit should be avoidedKeep purchases on your credit cards and accounts to a minimum.Remember, whatever money you spend on credit you will needto pay back once the December lights go off. It’s also importantto remember that if you delay paying off your debt, you willaccumulate interest - and lend up paying more than what youhave spent.Share the costsIf you have family staying overduring this period or hostinglunch or dinner, get everyoneto contribute towards the foodand refreshments. This is a greatway to share the cost, whileexchanging recipes.Save for a rainy dayIf you’re lucky enough toreceive a year-end bonus,use some of it as a lump-sumpayment into an investment.Pay an extra amount into yourbond, your retirement annuity,or into your savings accountor unit trust. Do not spend yourentire bonus.“Have a well-deserved breakduring these holidays, butkeep your finances in checkand make sure you start theNew Year with a healthy bankbalance,” advises Braudo.Liberty Retail CE,Steven Braudo.For more information, speak to your broker or aLiberty financial adviser. You can also contactthe Liberty contact centre on 086 032 7327.8 SA JEWISH REPORTSelikow’s ‘facts’ were widely reported in UK mediaIn Gary Selikow’s original letter which appearedin the Jewish Report, he mentionedthat Muslims were burning churches in England.In his most recent letter he quotes wherehe obtained his evidence.He downloaded from the Internet an articleprinted in a provincial newspaper and theBBC. The fact that Selikow was able to obtainthe evidence he was looking for, indicatesthat there was no cover-up or suppression ofinformation.The references he quoted were reportedas acts of vandalism which resulted in somechurches set on fire. The torching of thechurch in Cumbria was reported in all themedia, mainly because a group of young unnamedMuslims claimed - but it was notInformation sought on Gustav TobarLetters6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014Disclaimer The letters page is intended to provide opportunity for a range of views on any given topic to beexpressed. Opinions articulated in the letters are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of theeditor, staff or directors of the Jewish Report.Guidelines for letters Letters up to 400 words get preference. Provide your full name, place of residence, anddaytime contact phone number. We do not publish letters under noms de plume. Letters should be e-mailed. Lettersmay be edited or shortened.The Editor, PO Box 84650, Greenside, 2034 email: sharon@sajewishreport.co.zaproved - that they were responsible for thedesecration.The Muslim community as a whole dissociateditself from their claim and took a lead intrying to tame the young radicals and made itknown that the Muslim community was notand is not going round and deliberately settingchurches on fire.Only one British soldier, Private Lee Rigby,has been murdered on a London street. Thekillers are both of African origin and are atpresent facing a judge and jury. Recentlymembers of a gang (some are Muslims) havereceived long prison sentences for leadingyoung girls into prostitution.Dr J Chernin, Portsmouth, UKAaron Knappstein, from Cologne in Germany, who is working for the NS Documentation Centre (www.nsdok.de),is searching for Gustav Tobar or relatives of his. Tobar, born in Cologne in 1915, left Germany forSouth Africa because of the Nazis.Knappstein writes: “I am in contact with his cousin in New York who is still alive and who is searchingfor her family.”Anyone with information on Gustav Tobar or relatives of his, may contact Knappstein at Marienplatz 3-5,50676 Köln, Germany or mailto:aaron_knappstein@gmx.deChief Rabbi Bernard MosesCasper z”tl rememberedISAAC REZNIKThis year marks the 25th yartzheit of Rabbi Bernard MosesCasper z”tl, on the Tenth Tevet (Fast of Tevet) 5774, which correspondsto December 13, 2013.A memorial service will take place at the Great Park Synagogueon Thursday evening (December 12) at 18:00, precededby Mincha and Maariv.When the late Rabbi Dr Louis Rabinowitz retired as ChiefRabbi, it took some two years before his successor, RabbiCasper, arrived to assume office.Inducted into office one week before Rosh Hashanah in 1963, Rabbi Casper was an imposingfigure. Tall, very dignified and very different from his predecessor, not only in physical built, butin his whole manner and conduct.There are several factors which distinguished Rabbi Casper’s rabbinate in South Africa, whichextended for 25 years and culminated in his being appointed Chief Rabbi of South Africa, thefirst time such a position was established; previously there were two Chief Rabbis, one for theCape and the other for the rest of the Republic of South Africa.What made the newssouth africanNovember 22, 2002 Jewish ReportMuslim station wins Shoah-denial case“Jewish leaders here are reacting with dismayafter their complaint charging a Muslim radiostation with trivialising the Holocaust was rejected,”wrote Michael Belling from Cape Town.“In an acrimonious case, the SA Jewish Boardof Deputies had filed the complaint with thenation’s Broadcasting Complaints Commissionabout a 1998 broadcast on Radio 786, aMuslim station in Cape Town. Appearing onthe programme was Yacoub Zaki, a historian atthe Muslim Institute in London.“During the broadcast, Zaki said: ‘I acceptthat one million-plus Jews died during theSecond World War, but I dispute the fact thatthey were murdered, that they were killed bygassing. These people died, like other people inthe camps, from infectious diseases, particularlytyphus.’“The interview prompted a series of legalactions, including one brought before the ConstitutionalCourt. In that case, the radio stationsought to overturn a section of the broadcasters’code of conduct that prohibits hate speech.“Earlier this year, the Constitutional Courtsided with the radio station and struck downseveral provisions of the Broadcasting Code ofConduct as unconstitutional infringements onthe rights of free speech.“The Board of Deputies subsequently issueda statement saying the ruling evoked shockand that the complaint had been directedagainst sections of a broadcast that consistedof Holocaust denial and scurrilous anti-Semiticstatements.“Jewish leaders are vowing to keep the casealive. ‘We will pursue every avenue open to usto take this matter further,’ Russell Gaddin, theBoard of Deputies’ national chairman, said.”Do you value the Jewish Report? Help it continue providing excellent journalismfor the SA Jewish community with a financial contribution. Banking details: SAJewish Report, | Nedbank, Randburg | Account No: 1984514865 | Branch Code:198405 | Swift Code: NEDSZAJJ1984514865

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014 News SA JEWISH REPORT 9Holiday news and info for SA JewryANT KATZFor the first time, the Jewish Report willremain running as a source of news, informationand conversation throughout the2013/2014 holiday season.While this is the last print edition of theyear, and the first for 2014 will appear onJanuary 17 (complete with our Matric Supplement),the new SA Jewish Report Onlinewebsite - www.sajr.co.za - will be publishingthroughout the holiday period, be postingnew content regularly (both user-generatedblogs and comments and our own stories).We will continue to send out our Wednesdayevening newsletters with links andinformation about the latest content on thewebsite.Our new website has had extraordinarysuccess - to the extent that the developershave had to increase the bandwidth morethan once and this week are being forced tomove it on to a faster server to maintain theservice our users want.Our gratitude goes out to the dedicationand commitment of Alon Berman who madehis firewater interactive team available tobuild and maintain the website as a communityservice. They remain dedicated to oursuccess.We have had 31 114 hits from a total of61 countries as of Wednesday morning - justthree weeks since the launch of the site.The bulk, of course, have come from SouthAfrican Jewry. Returning South African visitorsspend an average of 6:50 (six minutesand fifty seconds) on the site, while SouthAfricans travelling abroad and using a SouthAfrican service provider, spend an average10:43.South African users visit an average of3.56 pages per visit. These numbers areextremely high for a news website.The other most popular countries are, inorder, Israel, the US, Australia, Canada, theUK, Belgium, New Zealand and France. Of allvisitors, our French users spend more timeon the website than any others - even morethan South Africans!If you are not already getting the SAJewish Report Online newsletter weekly,just click to www.sajr.co.za and type in youre-mail address. If you have any holiday news,pictures or issues you would like us to cover,simply e-mail online.editor@sajr .co.za andwe will respond promptly.Holiday informationFor those who are travelling (or even thosestaying at home) over the holidays, certainJewish services can be difficult to access.Jewish Report will ensure that the requiredinformation is on the website at all times.Simply search for “Emergency Services” onthe site, or “sajr emergence services” onGoogle.The Jewish organisations in Cape Town aremostly situated at 87 Hatfield Street (behindParliament, opposite the Jewish and HolocaustMuseums) and will be open throughoutthe holidays except for Christmas andNew Year’s Days.Emergency services such as the Chev, Hatzolah,CSO, etc, will be working as normal inJohannesburg. Anyone who has informationto add, please e-mail it to online.editor@sajr.co.za and we will share it.A great deal of information is availablefrom the Union of Orthodox Synagogues(UOS) http://www.uos.co.za/mobi/ Mobiandwebsites www.uos.co.zaSHULS: to find shuls anywhere in South Africaif you are looking to join minyanim andshiurim, http://www.uos.co.za/affiliated/BETH DIN: Johannesburg Beth Din http://www.uos.co.za/bethDin/ZMANIM: They offer times of religious practicesanywhere in South Africa here. http://www.uos.co.za/dateTimes/zmanim.aspERUVIM: Maps and directions here. http://www.uos.co.za/eruv/KASHRUT: For both Cape Town and Johannesburg:http://www.uos.co.za/kashrut/MIKVAOT: A listing of all the mikvaot inthe country http://www.uos.co.za/mikvaot/UOS Johannesburg hotline: 010-214-2600UOS Cape Town hotline: (021) 461-6310If you would like to connect with fellow-Jews socially or religiously, South Africais famously lacking in Jewish clubs, so thebest thing to do is to make contact througha local Orthodox http://www.uos.co.za/affiliated/or Progressive http://saupj.org.za/shul. You will find listings of both of these byclicking on the links.Did you know,knowing yourrisk profilecould save youmoney.With Liberty’s RISK REVEALER, a South African firstonline risk assessment tool, you could qualify forup to 12% off a new Lifestyle Protector policy.FOXP2 JOHANNESBURG/101Liberty’s Risk Revealer lets you assess your lifestyle and accidental risk profile with a fun,online tool, which could save you money on your new Lifestyle Protector. Access RiskRevealer on www.LibertyRiskRevealer.co.za and get the Liberty Advantage.The Advantage of KnowingLiberty Group Ltd – an Authorised Financial Services Provider in terms of the FAIS Act (Licence No. 2409). Terms and conditions apply.

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014Accept people withdisabilities as fullmembers of societyNews SA JEWISH REPORT 11Photo: Moira SchneiderRead the South AfricanJewish Report onlinewww.sajr.co.zaJay Ruderman, president of the Ruderman Family Foundation that advances the cause of theinclusion of people with disabilities in the Jewish community worldwide.MOIRA SCHNEIDERCAPE TOWNThe Jewish community is not inclusiveenough towards people with disabilities, saysJay Ruderman, president of the United StatesandIsrael-based Ruderman Family Foundation.“Our focus is not on people with disabilities,even though our programmes service them,”explains the Boston native who now lives inIsrael. “Our focus is on people who don’t careabout people with disabilities and gettingthem not only to care, but to accept they’refull members of our society.”What the Jewish community in the UnitedStates - and frankly around the world - doesn’tdo well, he says, is include those who want tobe included, like people with disabilities, thegay and lesbian community, the inter-marriedcommunity, Jews in poverty.With assimilation rates - aside from theOrthodox community - hitting 70 per cent,philanthropy in the Jewish community in theUS is concentrated on the young and how tokeep them Jewish.“We end up setting up an exclusionarycommunity which becomes unattractive tothe very young people we’re trying to attract.Besides, it’s a Jewish value to be inclusive ofeveryone,” he says. “Unfortunately we’ve gonein the other direction.”Ruderman’s mission is for the Jewishcommunity to become more accepting of thedisenfranchised and to be “a better, fairercommunity. It’s a worldwide effort because Isee that we’re all connected as Jews.”He was here first and foremost to visit HerzliaSchool, but also to address the communityin Johannesburg and Cape Town to explainhis modern-day brand of philanthropy whichhe terms “more hands on”, a major part ofwhich is advocacy.And he doesn’t underestimate the value ofnetworking in order to raise the issue of theinclusion of people with disabilities “higher”in the Jewish world, mentioning “major connections”with the American Jewish JointDistribution Committee - the world’s leadingJewish humanitarian assistance organisation -in Israel as an example.The former Massachusetts assistant districtattorney was also due to visit the local AstraCentre that caters for individuals with disabilitiesand thereafter hoped to assess wherethis community stands in relation to Jewishcommunities in the US and Israel.“My sense is that the Jewish world is behindthe rest of society on this issue, but I’mnot sure there are great differences within theJewish world - I think we’re all at the beginninghere.”The Ruderman Prize in Disability wasawarded to Herzlia in June, one of severalrecipients, chosen from 250 Jewish organisationsworldwide, that have taken on the issueof disability and made it one of central importance.“That is what impressed us about theschool,” Ruderman explains of its selection.“It was the overall attitude and commitment.Before we put this prize out there (lastyear), they took on the issue, making sure thatall of their schools were inclusive.“People who are not inclusive will say it’stoo expensive, too complicated. It’s really notall that complicated - it’s more a mindset,” hemaintains. “And that’s what we were attractedto with Herzlia - the fact that as Jews, it’simportant for us to include everyone.“That was very unique. A lot of schoolsthat I know across the US and Israel arenot inclusive and those schools that makeit a central tenet of their beliefs, should berecognised.”Kosher meatthat’s a cut above...We are open through December!Call us for your holiday meat needsWe will pack and arrange deliveryof your meat order to your destinationChinese take-aways every Thursday and FridayChicken SpringrollBeef ChopsueyChicken ChowmeinChinese Fried RiceBeef Chopsuey & Fried Rice comboChicken Chowmein & Fried Rice combo3 for R25R50R55R40R60R65Chestnut Hill Shopping Centre Cnr Birt &Durham Streets Raedene | Tel: (011) 640-3124Trevors Butchery 20x4 061213v2.indd 12013/12/04 10:41 AM

212 SA JEWISH REPORTTapestry News 6 December 2013 –- 17 08 January June 2012 2014Finally, Ilan’s dreams are beginning to pay off!REVIEWED BY ROBYN SASSENThirty-three-year-old Ilan Godfreyhas followed his dreams to whereverthey have led. And it’s beginningto pay off. This year’s recipientof the prestigious Ernest Coleawards, he currently shows partsof his finished project at Wits ArtMuseum.“This represents a year’s work,”he told the SA Jewish Report,shortly after the opening of theexhibition. “My work has until thistime been self-funded and thisaward which is valued at R150 000,helps significantly towards bringingit to completion.“From diamonds to coal, platinumto asbestos and gold, andfracking, my project’s been aboutinvestigating society on the peripheryof this type of mining.”Redolent of David Goldblatt inhis compositional decision-makingand of Pieter Hugo in his fearlessness,Godfrey’s photographic voiceis fresh and individual.The exhibition is elegantly curatedand hung with a poetic senseof symmetry. “I always knew thatI would do art. My dad was a keenamateur photographer and themagic of a dark room, which I firstexperienced while at school atKing David, got me hooked.“After matric I wanted to seethe world. I saved my pennies,Jewishsouth africanReportThokozani Sikhakhae, security guard. East Rand Proprietary Mine, Johannesburg, 2011, by Ilan Godfrey.put together a portfolio and tookthe plunge, travelling everywhere,eventually settling in WestminsterUniversity, London, to do aBA Honours degree in photography,”which he later followed withTo our valuableadvertisers, thanksfor your supportover the past year.We look forwardto asuccessfulpartnershipin 2014.The managementand staff ofthe Jewish Report.a masters degree after winning ascholarship.“It examines cleavages betweensociety and environment,” saysGodfrey of his work. “It’s not aboutthe processes of mining, nor, itsArts Briefsproducts. That has been done wellby others.“The more I investigated thisproject, the deeper I was taken.”He speaks literally as well as figuratively,citing instances where heLevine and Field on atTheatre on the SquareTwo of South Africa’s top female singer/songwriters,Laurie Levine and Josie Field, return to the stageon December 8 at Auto and General Theatre on theSquare in Sandton, to perform together with theirtandem show “Side by Side”. According to a mediastatement, “the blues infused vocal-rock of Fieldconnects with the intimate folk, country styles ofLevine, to create a unique and intimate musicalexperience featuring their hit singles as well asselect covers”. These performances are acoustic,using a variety of instruments, including guitar, banjo,ukulele and more. All seats R120: call the theatre on(011) 883-8606 or 083-377-4969.Young Misha runner-upin 2013 ArtscapeSeventeen-year-old cellist Misha Favis fromJohannesburg was a runner-up in the 2013 ArtscapeNational Music Competition, recently. He receivedR2 500 and a bronze medal. After a week ofelimination rounds where 23 contestants fromaround SA came together to compete, 15-year-oldviolinist Francis Whitehead from Johannesburgwas declared the overall winner, receiving R25 000was offered the opportunity toclimb into an illegal inlet to a maverickmining operation.“I had no idea where it was going.But the project was also aboutreturning to South Africa,” he added.Eleven years ago, he left Johannesburgof his birth to seek hisfortune. He speaks of Meyerton’sBlack Reef, the phenomenon ofdirty coal, that of acid drainingand the reality that living in theshadow of a mine dump stuntschildren’s growth.He tells how his work highlightedthe discrepancies betweenracial groups and classes; of sexworkers who are the byproducts ofthe industry, of the asbestosis andsilicosis affecting people who livenearby.“Ironically, it brings us all together,”said Godfrey, whose workhas been recognised locally and internationallyby the Open SocietyInitiative for Southern Africa, theInternational Photography Award,Magenta Flash Forward Award andNikon Endframe.Legacy of the Mine is Godfrey’sfirst major travelling solo exhibition.It has travelled nationallyand Godfrey is hopeful that itmight have international legs. Hiswork has been published by Jacanain a publication retailing at R300.www.jacana.co.zaand a Gold Medal. Favis is currently studying at theYehudi Menuhin School of Musical Excellence inSurrey, UK. The National Youth Music Competitionis presented by Artscape in association with theCape Philharmonic Orchestra, the City of Cape Town,Rupert Music Foundation and Fine Music Radio.‘The artist is present’ inCape ArtWalkArtist Arlene Amaler-Raviv is one of the 80 artistsand 16 studios participating in this year’s CapeArtWalk, on December 6, an initiative spread acrossWoodstock, Observatory and Salt River. Accordingto their website, ArtWalk offers “a radical alternativeto the conventional model of viewing and buyingart; as open studios allow an immediate, intimateexperience of art-making” and the chance topurchase work without gallery or agent commission.Says Amaler-Raviv: “It is a unique way to experiencethe artist: The artist is present. The work spaceis active.” Visit www.artwalk.co.za for maps andfurther details.Cohen’s advocateappeals for ‘testimoniesof support’In an international appeal, Agnès Tricoire, theFrench advocate representing South African-bornartist Steven Cohen who was arrested during aperformance at the Trocadéro in Paris, in September,writes that while the trial, originally scheduledfor December 16, will be probably postponed,“in the meantime, it would be helpful to receivewritten testimonies of support of Cohen’s work.”She asks that interested parties e-mail her oncontact@agnestricoire-avocat.fr and she will sendthe attestation form to fill out by hand. “Thesetestimonies will be donated to the folder and do notimply a presence at the hearing.”

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014 Tapestry SA JEWISH REPORT 13Art which is temporary and leaves no traceROBYN SASSENCapetonian artist Dan Popper,29, (inset) calls his work hismistress. In Johannesburg enroute to Amsterdam for a musicconference, he visited the exhibitionof kinetic artist JustinFiske, at the Standard BankGallery, where he also spoke tothe Jewish Report.Photo suppliedThrough Fiske, Popper became interestedin kinetic art and audienceparticipation, which led him to AfrikaBurn,a festival of impermanentart established in 2007 on a privatefarm at the Tankwa Karoo NationalPark, Northern Cape. As the nameimplies, central to AfrikaBurn’sphilosophy is the fact that the artleaves no trace. All the installationsare temporary and some of theworks are burned as part of the festival.It is about not being preciousabout beautiful things; allowingthem to be transient.Another principle to the thinkingbehind AfrikaBurn is that ofGifting. “We are devoted to acts ofgift giving,” the festival’s websiteexplains the cash-less way in whichthe festival works. “The value of agift is unconditional. Gifting doesnot contemplate a return or anexchange for something of equalvalue.”Schooled in Johannesburg, Poppergraduated in fine arts fromUCT in 2006. “Doing a course likethat, you learn about contemporaryartists,” he said. “But they don’tteach you how to be a career artist.Ninety eight per cent of my friendsfrom art school do not make artanymore.Dan Popper’s “Dragon” exhibited at AfrikaBurn 2012.“In 2007, I discovered Afrika-Burn. It changed everything. Muchof the art currently revered in SouthAfrica is premised in academicrhetoric; suddenly I was forging myown way without academia’s rules. Irealised there isn’t only one way ofmaking a life with art.”In the FIFA Soccer World Cup’sbuild-up in 2010, Popper pitchedthe giant puppets he was making atthe time, to MTN who was handlingthe marketing. MTN commissionedhim to produce 14 more for FanFests nationally, during the WorldCup. Popper employed over 70assistants. “This was the first experienceI had of marrying art witha commercial patron,” he said. “Itgave me an understanding of howto make a life from doing what I do.”The puppets have ricocheted himeverywhere. He’s taken them toPortugal for Boom, the electronicmusic festival and Berlin for theYoung Illustrators Award. “In thiswork, you see audiences smiling,not stroking their chins being intellectual.There is no lie here. It iswhat it is.”In developing repertoire, Popperapproached South African-bornmaster puppeteer Roger Tittley,who is based in Linz, Austria. “Hetrained me in new materials and hisworking methodology inspires a lotof what I do.“In fact, the Hand of G-d, atAfrikaBurn 2011 was conceptualisedon Roger’s farm and it was myfirst move into structural work.”Made of wood and steel, the workfeatured an Argon laser beam andcaught festivalgoers’ attention andthat of Siemens and Ogilvy whocommissioned Popper to create a15m baobab tree with 3 000 LEDlights, powered by solar panels andbicycles, for the COP17 climatechange conference in Durban thatyear.Last year Boom commissionedPopper to build two 25m Quetzalcoatlserpents. “People freakedout. It was amazing to be adding somuch to people’s experience of thefestival.”On January 16, Popper, supportedby Siemens, launches an11m metal acacia tree at the NelsonMandela School of Science andTechnology, at Mvezo, near Qunu,Nelson Mandela’s birthplace, inthe Eastern Cape. “It’s a symbol ofMandela’s wisdom,” he said.“This kind of work has taught methat my art can elevate the experiencefor thousands.”World BriefsHolocaustsurvivor, rescuerreunited after 69yearsJERUSALEM - The Jewish Foundationfor the Righteous (JFR), onNovember 27 brought togetherHolocaust survivor Dr Leon Gerstenwith his Holocaust rescuer fromPoland, righteous gentile CzeslawPolziec, for the first time in 69 years.For more than two years, thePolziec family hid Gersten from theNazis, along with his mother Friedaand the Wiesenfelds, the family ofFrieda’s sister and brother-in-law.JFR has been arranging suchreunions for 20 years, usually onthe day before Thanksgiving. JFRExecutive Vice President StanleeStahl told JNS.org that this year’sreunion at JFK International Airportcarried extra significance due to thehistoric overlap of Thanksgiving andChanukah.“Chanukah is the festival oflight, and in many ways [CzeslawPolziec’s] Polish Catholic familybrought light into the lives of theGersten and Wiesenfeld families,”Stahl said. (JNS.org)Jewish groupsraise concerns onIran nuclear dealin calls with WhiteHouseWASHINGTON - White House nationalsecurity officials have tried to assuageleaders of American-Jewish organisationsabout the newly reached nuclear dealbetween the P5-1 powers and Iran duringseveral recent conference calls.Officials spoke to groups such as theAmerican Israel Public Affairs Committee,the Conference of Presidents of MajorAmerican Jewish Organisations, theAmerican Jewish Committee, and theJewish Federations of North America. MalcolmHoenlein, executive vice chairman ofthe Conference of Presidents, said Jewishleaders “raised the concerns that are quiteobvious to the community and the issuesthat have come up regarding the processof the accord [and its] implementation”.“We raised the questions about whatthe accord says about the [Iranian] weaponisationprogramme, the development oftheir ballistic missile system, what it saysabout the development and production…of centrifuges, what happened to the Arak[heavy water] facility… what happened tothe uranium, why it was not removed, whythey’re allowed to keep it, why the processdoes not call for dismantling the existinginfrastructure as the [UN] Security Councilresolutions call for,” Hoenlein told JNS.org.(JNS.org)Israel asked to joinUN Human RightsCouncil groupJERUSALEM - Israel has been formallyinvited to join a regional group within theUnited Nations Human Rights Council.An invitation was sent on Monday toIsrael to join the Western European countriesgroup, the French news agency AFPreported, citing an unnamed diplomaticsource.The West European and Others Group isa 28-nation bloc made up of European nations,the United States, Canada, Australiaand New Zealand.The European states had agreed towelcome Israel into the group in exchangefor the Jewish state’s return to the HumanRights Council and its participation in itsUniversal Periodic Human Rights Reviewprocess.Israel had left the council a year-and-ahalfago to protest its alleged bias againstthe Jewish state.Samantha Power, the US ambassadorto the United Nations, applauded theinvitation.“As President Obama has made clear,the United States opposes the effort toundermine Israel’s legitimacy as a full andequal member of the community of nations,and will continue to work vigorouslyto end structural discrimination againstIsrael throughout the UN system,” she said.Since 2006, the council has passed 27resolutions criticising Israel and convened19 special sessions, six of which wereabout Israel. Regular sessions feature apermanent agenda item 7, “the humanrights situation in Palestine and other occupiedArab territories”.In January, Israel became the first countryto refuse to attend the Universal PeriodicReview, a review of a country’s rightsrecord. All UN member nations are meantto submit regularly to the evaluation.On October 29, Israel participated in thereview, during which it was criticised foralleged human rights abuses (JTA)Poll: Palestinianspessimistic onnegotiations withIsraelJERUSALEM - A Jerusalem Media andCommunications Centre poll showed thathalf of Palestinians believe the PalestinianAuthority should not have resumed Israeli-Palestinian conflict talks. Seventy per centof Palestinians said they didn’t believe thenegotiations would result in an agreement.The poll surveyed 1 200 Palestiniansabove age 18 from the West Bank andGaza. About one-third of respondents saidthey preferred armed resistance to peacefulnegotiations. Thirty per cent blamedHamas for the division between the WestBank and Gaza. (JNS.org)Iran ‘far too close’to nuclear weaponafter deal - formerCIA chiefWASHINGTON - Gen Michael Hayden,former head of the Central IntelligenceAgency and the National Security Agency,said Iran was “far too close to a nuclearweapon” following its interim agreementwith world powers. The deal allowed Iranto continue enriching uranium to five percent.“At the end of the day, Iran is going tobe a nuclear threshold state,” Hayden toldFox News.“We have accepted Iranian nuclearenrichment,” he said. “What we have to dois push that threshold back as far as possible,and that will define whether this is agood idea or a bad idea.” (JNS.org)

14 SA JEWISH REPORTCommunityFrom Mitchells Plain to an Israeli utopia6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014LANA JACOBSONAt 19:00 in Israel’s Arava Desert, Vincent Wyngaard getsinto his pickup truck and rounds up the eight farm handsworking and living on his farm.Creating a blooming farm in the harsh climate of theArava Desert and beating sun, is no mean feat for anybody,let alone a 45-year-old Cape Coloured from Mitchells Plain,South Africa’s jungle of crime!Vincent was one of four children. His father was employedas “a messenger boy”, his mother, unemployed; thefamily led a life of financial deprivation.Vincent says: “In 1998 Mitchells Plain had no such thingas remedial teachers and I was a remedial student.I repeated standard six three times and gave up. Nobodycould help me. My parents weren’t educated, and my fatherdrank, making any form of communication impossible.Gangsters and drugs were rife in the area.”One evening Vincent’s friend and neighbour, DenvorPaulso, was watching Video Hits on SABC TV and he sawan advertisement with a picture of young people from allwalks of life and all nationalities, working in harmony,picking and planting fruit and vegetables on an Israelimoshav.Across the screen he read the following: “A Cry Out ForVolunteers” and the contact number of a travel agent organisingtrips to Israel.Denvor, a bursary student at Teachers College, was sweptaway with the idea of changing his life, so he withdrew hisbursary money and bought an air ticket to Israel forR2 500. Every month Denvor wrote to Vincent and hisbest friend Graeme Rowland, saying: “Come. The womenand the parties are great, and you can earn $300 (R1 500)working on a farm, accommodation provided’.”Vincent says: “We were 23 years old. South Africa hadbeen a democracy for four years, Mandela was presidentand nothing had changed. Life was an obstacle course ofsurvival; it was very difficult.“We stripped and sold the spare parts from Graeme’sbashed-up Cortina and my second-hand car and bought twoVincent Wyngaard with his wife Sharon and their children, against the backdrop of the Arava Desert.tickets to Israel.The two arrived with R900 between them; they fell inlove with Israel immediately. “Nights were peaceful andquiet. We were together with people who did not judge youby skin colour; cars are unlocked, and it’s a dream to seefathers playing with their kids on the beach, families areso united; people can walk at night freely without fear,” herecalls.They reunited with Denvor and the three worked togetheron Moshav Zofar. Finally, 12 years after his arrivalin Israel, Vincent achieved his full Israeli citizenship.He met his wife, Sharon Roitz, an Israeli doctor of agriculture,when by chance he was playing football against arival moshav team, where Sharon lived and worked.Denvor finally returned to South Africa, and obtainedhis teaching diploma. He now lives and has retired to thepeaceful town of Grabouw in the Western Cape. He foundSouth African schoolchildren unmanageable and has abandonedteaching.Graeme is married to an Australian he met on themoshav. They have two children and live in Canberra,Australia.For Vincent, life is a permanent Garden of Eden. He andhis wife own their own farm, where they grow dates, melons,pumpkins and mangoes.Their desert venture has proved so successful that theyexport dates to Holland; their melons, pumpkins and mangoesare distributed throughout IsraelExcitedly he says: “I have built four houses on our property;at first we rented them out as bed and breakfast guesthouses, but nowadays we rent them out on a permanentbasis. And, I am about to build two more.”The three friends have a reunion in Cape Town everythree years, treating themselves and their families to everythingthey ever yearned for but were deprived of whilegrowing up.“Every time I come back to South Africa I am moredepressed. The Government has done nothing to upliftthe people. The young people are on drugs, and the violentgang wars are worse than ever,” says Vincent.“As for my life, I love Israel, couldn’t find a bettercountry to live in. We have three children and are such avery close family. We do everything together. My daughterArava’s traditional Jewish batmitzvah is in 2014.“My mother and brother, relatives - Catholic and Muslim- are all coming to Israel for the celebration.”Photo supplied 15655OFyt

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014 News SA JEWISH REPORT 15An era ends as ‘Uncle Stan’ sells upSTAFF REPORTERThe end of an era of Jewish property ownership in theinner city of Johannesburg - that is how “Uncle Stan”described the recent sale, by auction, of five heritage innercity properties acquired by his father and uncles during theearly part of the century.Uncle Stan does not want his family surname disclosed,claiming they are a high-profile, but humble family thatdoes not want publicity - not even in the Jewish media.He would only say the properties are registered under theMidland Property Group.At the age of 83, he says he has decided to “call it a day”.Despite his age, every day he drives into Johannesburg’sCBD to ensure the properties are well maintained and runningwell.But now, with the family scattered all over the world, andthe younger generation no longer interested in the familyproperty portfolio, Uncle Stan said it was time to sell up.Abe, Stan’s father, arrived in Johannesburg from Lithuaniain 1905. He and his brothers went into the coal business,distributing coal in mule-drawn carts from theirdepot in Fordsburg.“My father already believed in Johannesburg in thosedays and was a visionary in predicting the city’s greatfuture, which turned out to be true. We have remained asproperty investors in the inner city since then, and neveropted to move out,” he saidThe older-generation brothers started buying propertyin and around Johannesburg and built up a good portfolio.Included in the properties which went on auction, wasthe iconic Guild Hall, Johannesburg’s first pub, which stilltoday, is open as a restaurant and pub, and still has manyof its original features.“I feel quite sentimental about selling the properties off.They are heritage buildings, so I know the history will haveto be preserved. The sale marks the end of an era for ourfamily. It is a great pity the next generation doesn’t want toMeischke’s Building, cnr Harrison & Market Streetscarry on. We have been predominant players in the propertyindustry in Johannesburg for years. But I have mademy peace with it. Times have changed and life must go on,”he said.Uncle Stan, who still drives his 1982 Mercedes Benz towork in the CBD every day, will continue working until allthe properties are sold and the paperwork has been finalised.The historic buildings that went under the hammer are:• High Court building and Somerset House - two adjoiningbuildings on the corner of Fox and Joubert Streets inMarshalltown. The buildings are opposite Gandhi Square,formerly known as Van der Bijl Square. In former days,farmers would bring their produce to the square on weekendsto sell to the public. Somerset House used to be anupmarket shopping mall with access through to the square.Photo courtesy iolproperty.co.zaA view of Victory House, cnr Commissioner & Fox Streets.It was closed off because, over the years, it was used byvagrants.• London House in Loveday Street, Marshalltown. Uncle Abepurchased the property for £45 000. All deals were donewith a handshake - no lengthy contracts in those days!• Meischke’s Building, corner Harrison and Market Streets,where the famous Guild Hall pub is situated. It was one ofthe first pubs to get a liquor licence and still stands today asa landmark. It still has its original bar and brass fittings.• Victory House, corner Commissioner and Fox Streets. Itwas formerly called Permanent House. Uncle Abe renamedit Victory House after the Second World War victory overNazi Germany.Photo courtesy blueplaques.co.za 15655OFyt

216 SA JEWISH REPORTYouth News 6 December 2013 –- 17 08 January June 2012 2014Delicious latkesfor ChanukahKD Sandton celebrates Chanukahwith song and danceSTORY AND PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE VINOKURThe children at Minnie Bersohn Pre-Primary School were treated to deliciouslatkes to celebrate Chanukah. Pictured are Joan Lurie (teacher);Samuel Joffe; Chad Bacher; Val Aronson (teacher); and Isabella Ash,making the potato latkesGILLIAN HORWITZPHOTOGRAPH: ARNALDO MANDELFor the first time in many years, King David Sandton getsto celebrate Chanukah while school is still in session. Thefirst candle was lit last week Wednesday night and we heraldedthe story of Chanukah with a beautiful presentationof narration and song by our junior choir and Morah Chaia.Marlene Miller and her Israeli dancing troupe and grade5 boys, shared the joy of the Festival of Lights with a wonderfulseries of dances.We were also entertained by the senior choir under thebaton of Morah Efrat, all of which rounded off a beautifuland meaningful evening.Yitzchak Hirchovitz’s memoryhonoured at KD SandtonPhoto: Arnaldo MandelHolocaust survivor Esther Teplin, with the grade 6 learners of King David, Sandton, who participated in the JohannesburgHolocaust & Genocide Centre’s twinning programme last week.ARLENE SHERThe grade 6 class of King David Sandton last week participatedin a twinning programme which was facilitatedby the Johannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre.The programme aims to help bar-/batmitzvah participantslearn about the Holocaust in a personal way, byresearching and honouring one child who did not havea chance to reach this joyous milestone, because of theShoah.A remarkable story unfolded for one of the pupils,Thomas Stenz, who was twinned with a child who hadperished in the Holocaust, Yitzchak Hirchovitz.Holocaust survivor Esther Teplin, met with the grade6 learners last week Friday and Thomas read his speechto her.Wanting to find out more about this child, Thomascontacted Yad Vashem who sent him a testimony onYitzchak, that had been submitted by his brother HirschLewitan, in 1990.Coincidentally, a family friend of the Stenz familyknew of a man by the name of Rabbi Hirsch Lewitan,aged 85, who was living in Monsey, New York.They contacted him telephonically. He was completelyoverwhelmed by the call, but willingly answered allof Thomas’ questions about what had happened to hisbrother and the rest of the family.Thomas learnt the fate of young Yitzchak who togetherwith his mother and two siblings, were shot in a massgrave in Vidulke, Lithuania, by the Einzatsgruppen.Since then the family have been in contact with theson of Hirsch Lewitan and they have been correspondingwith one another.They are extremely moved that Yitzchak is being rememberedin such a significant manner and for Thomasit has made preparing for his upcoming barmitzvah evenmore meaningful and special.• Should you be interested in participating in the bar-/batmitzvah twinning programme, please contact theJohannesburg Holocaust & Genocide Centre on (011)640-3100.

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014 Youth SA JEWISH REPORT 17Torah Academy – the school with a neshamaSUZANNE BELLINGThe Torah Academy had reached a phase in itshistory when the cycle of time had seen its ownalumni returning in teaching positions at theschool - particularly in the case of the principalsof the Boys’ High School and Nursery School,Rabbi Motti Hadar and Sara Bronstein, “whohave come back to plough the fields of the future”,said Rabbi Dovid Hazdan (pictured), deanof Torah Academy, in an interview.“They have brought about innovation andchange.”This year and the few years preceding 2013saw a 20 per cent increase per annum in theNursery School enrolment from across theentire spectrum of Jewish communal life.“The diversity is such that, as illustrated inone of our grades, we have 20 learners from 15different shuls and communities.” This dispelledthe myth that the school was for children from aLubavitch background - the school welcomed allJewish children and did not turn away learnerswhose parents had genuine financial problems.The increase in numbers at the school, however,had created a need to plan for the building ofnew facilities to accommodate the larger enrolment.This would be a focus for 2015 when thelarge intake of pupils in the Nursery School wasThe sweetness of life in theKDL foldMARC FALCONERHEADMASTERTo articulate the highlights of ayear in a few hundred words willnever do justice to the sweetnessof the experience, the life and theenthusiasm of a big, growing andbusy school: what is so often calledthe King David “vibe”, because it isquite indescribable.The Judaic life of King DavidLinksfield has been at least as busyas any other part of the school’sactivity: shiurim and leadership training, ongoingone-on-one learning and class activities exploringwhat it means to be Jewish and how to activelycontribute to our Jewish school and the wider community.Our Gemillut Chassidim programme which isrun every year for the grade 10s and the ongoingoutreach programmes, have involved hundredsof our pupils and made a difference in the lives ofthousands of people, many of whom not having thesame resources and supports that the majority ofour community have.There have been ongoing shiurim, the Israel anddue to enter grade one in the Primary School.Reviewing the past year, Rabbi Hazdan saidthe success of the 2012 matric class and its 100per cent pass rate, augured well for this year.But he stressed that it was not only the multipledistinctions attained by the matrics, but alsothe achievements of the mediocre who struggledwith the final examinations.“The success of the matrics has enabled themto have opportunities for tertiary studies,whether Torah or secular, as they leave schoolwith a parallel education and knowledge in bothspheres.”Highlights of the past year - and 15 years previously- was the outreach project Cycalive forgrade 11 learners. Cycalive is the annual relaycycle ride to Durban by the BHS, who team upwith Moletsane High School and Pace CommericalSecondary School in a spirit of ubuntu.“The Torah Academy learners have the abilityto interact in this regard, secure in their ownheritage and identity and, at the same time, areextremely knowledgeable.”As Cycalive is a an official event on the NelsonMandela Day calendar, this year’s team wasamong the select 18 young South Africansinvited to visit the Nelson Mandela FoundationCentre of Memory before its official opening byPresident Jacob Zuma.Bible quizzes and a great deal ofprivate and class learning, as wellas the newly-established and verypopular, Café Evrit.Our cultural life is no lessflourishing. In both junior and seniordebating, King David Linksfield wasselected through to the quarterfinalsand had representatives invitedto go through to the Gautengselections.There have been four schoolproductions this year: the legendaryPurim play with hundreds ofour pupils involved; the Greek tragedy, Antigone;Shakespeare’s As You Like It and in the last term, aone-act play festival that allowed all pupils who hadany thespian aspirations an opportunity to exploretheir theatrical sides.In addition there has been slam poetry, dancing,and a full music programme, the highlight of whichwas the King David Choir winning the Gautengschools competition.The matric exams have come to an end and theschool is in a holiday dormancy until the release ofthe results, which are expected to be particularlygood this year.“Our school has a great diversity of achievementsand interests,” said Rabbi Hazdan. “Forexample, one of our pupils was the winner ofthis year’s Israel Quiz. Beyond the actual classroom,there are trips to Israel, local excursions,field trips, experiential learning, Shabbatonsand our annual Teen Week, when experts indifferent fields come to address the learners ontopics that interest their age group.”The school participated fully in GenerationSinai, the Shabbos Project, as well as its ownFather and Son Learning Programme.“We also have our own Mesivta Stream withour own Beit Midrash for advanced Torahstudies. This is structured in an actual yeshivaTheatre: “Seussical” directed by Francois Theron,National Children’s Theatre, Parktown, until Dec 22.REVIEWED BY ROBYN SASSENIt’s hard to believe this fresh-faced madcap productiongraced the stages of the National Children’sTheatre as much as four years ago. The tale of anelephant who sits on an egg to help out a frivolousbird who feels that fledgling-rearing will affect herglamorous lifestyle, and that of a dust-sized planetfilled with people - or rather, blue-wigged “Whos”who have their own political and social conflicts, willstay with you for a long time.If you did see Seussical then, this is a brandnew production, with as much delightful polish andsophisticated theatre acumen as we have learnt toanticipate from this theatre. In fact it has more.Last time, we saw Francois Theron as Horton theever-willing-to-please elephant. Now, he’s directing,and with a wise understanding not only of hismedium, but of his young audiences, he has createdsomething that would make even Dr Seuss’ feet tap.The character Jojo, who doubles as the boy wholinks the audience to the story, and the son of themayor of Whoville, is, in this production, a child -played by Emma Rogers, Maia Bhundia and Caseyenvironment.”RabbiHazdan hopesthat 2014 willsee greaterdevelopmenton the sportsfield, includingenhancedleadership and more members on the coachingteam.“Torah Academy is known as ‘the school witha neshama’ because of its unique approach toeach learner on a personal level and attending toindividual needs.”Sterling performances willmake Dr Seuss proudPhoto: Ilan Ossendryver/National Children’s TheatreA tender moment in which Horton the Elephant (Grant Towers) loves his planet of Whos which restson a clover, while Gertrude McFuzz (Neka da Costa) vies for attention from beneath her green tresses.Watson in alternating sessions.The effect of this is absolutely fitting. The childwoos the young audience to be swept into the massof “thinkable thinks” that can make a bird fall in lovewith an elephant, or a cat in a hat do anything at all.But the child is directed in such a way that shedoesn’t lose herself or attempt to upstage the rest ofthe production.Ultimately, the caveat that you and your little ones,or not-so-little ones, will be swept away by, is thatyou are most loveable at your most natural and “aperson’s a person, no matter how small”.Indeed the whole ethos informing this theatre isthat even if - or especially if - their audience is veryyoung, it’s no excuse for a shoddy show, and the cast,including performers we’ve grown to love on thisstage such as Devon Flemmer, Christel Mutombo andNomonde Matiwane, and newcomers Neka da Costaas a fabulous Gertrude McFuzz and Grant Towers as aheartbreakingly earnest elephant, the butt of the jokefor the naughty Wickersham monkeys, give absolutelysterling performances.Vocally, some performers are not always consistent,at times, they fight with the piped music foraudibility; given the intimacy of the theatre, thisworks, highlighting a character’s vulnerability, ratherthan showcasing a flaw.

218 SA JEWISH REPORT Community Columns6 December 2013 –- 17 08 January June 2012 2014AriellahRosenbergORT JETBusinessMentorshipManager.I am honouredand humbled tobe appointed chiefexecutive officer ofORT SA. I have workedat ORT SA, the NGOin education andvocational training,whose vision is“Educating for Life”, for the past 10 yearsand have come to appreciate the importanceof education for the upliftment of thepeople of South Africa.As Benjamin Disraeli noted: “Upon theeducation of the people of this country, thefate of this country depends.”According to the World Bank Report, theeconomic growth of a country is affectedpositively by its quality of education.“Education is more than luxury; it is aresponsibility that society owes to itself,”said Robin Cook, American physician andnovelist.A column of ORT South AfricaThe vision is for ORTSA to expand itsimpact and scaleIt is for this reason that ORT SA, throughits divisions of Educator Empowerment,Jewish Entrepreneurial Training (JET),Vocational & Enterprise Development andthe IT Academy together with ORT SA Cape,play a very important role in South Africa.The sound, professional reputation thatORT SA has built up over the years, hasonly been made possible by the generouscontributions and support of funders,donors, networks of volunteers andprofessionals.My vision for ORT SA is that it expandsits impact and scales up its work, both at aprovincial and national level.If you want to join this remarkableorganisation as a volunteer, supporter ordonor, or even if you just want to send yourcomments and suggestions to me, pleasedon’t hesitate to e-mail ariellah@ortsa.org.za or find me on Twitter on @Ariellah,Please join ORT SA on the FacebookCommunity Group.This column is paid for by ORT SAI am not just abright spark.Above BoardMary KlukNational ChairmanA column of the SA Jewish Board of DeputiesLooking back on 2013This being the last issueof the SA Jewish Reportfor 2013, it is appropriateto look back on theyear that was and whatI believe to have beenthe main achievementsof the SAJBD duringthat time.As always, it wasby no means an easyyear. For the Board’sleadership, every dayis a challenge, with difficultdecisions havingcontinually to be made on a range of complexissues. There were, naturally, some disappointmentsand not a little frustration on occasion,but at the end of it all we are gratified by themany things we were able to accomplish.At the beginning of April, many months of effortby the Board and other organisation it hadpartnered with came to a satisfactory conclusionwith the resolution of the long-runningWest Bank labelling dispute.Cabinet’s final ruling on how goods fromJewish areas of East Jerusalem and the WestBank should be labelled in future, was fully inline with our submissions to Government thatthe wording of such labelling be neutral anddescriptive rather than having a political biasagainst Israel.Another good outcome to something thathad a very bad beginning, was the resoundingresponse to the Yossi Reshef debacle, where arecital by the Israeli-born pianist was broken upby anti-Israel demonstrators.With the full support of the university, thiswas followed up by the Israeli Daniel Zamir jazzquartet performing in the Great Hall, which waspacked to capacity for the occasion.It sent out a powerful message that neitherour community nor the university itself willtolerate infringements on its right to freedomof expression on campus.At the time of writing, a ruling has been madeby the disciplinary enquiry against 11 studentsinvolved in the Reshef affair, and formal sentencingwill be made later this week.Especially memorable was the success of theBoard’s 110th anniversary gala dinner. Amongthe 450 guests who joined in celebrating thismilestone, were many government ministers,religious leaders, members of the diplomaticcorps, journalists and civil society representativesfrom a wide range of NGOs.It was a heartening demonstration of theesteem in which both the Board and the Jewishcommunity is held throughout society.Some issues that we have been grappling withare still ongoing. During the year, Deputy MinisterMarius Fransman made a number of offensiveand inflammatory public remarks aboutthe Jewish community and its leadership. Thematter is now being adjudicated upon by the SAHuman Rights Commission, following a formalcomplaint lodged against him by the Board.On a more positive and proactive note, theBoard recently kicked off what will be a series ofevents relating to next year’s elections and thecelebration of 20 years of democracy in SouthAfrica.This included a national voter registrationcampaign and collaborating with the RabbiCyril Harris Community Centre in hostingthree highly successful book launches focusingon issues very much of concern to us as SouthAfrican citizens.I look forward to reporting on the many excitingevents we have planned in the new calendaryear. In the meantime, I thank all those whohave rendered such invaluable support to myselfand the Board in general during the past 12months and wish everyone an enjoyable, fulfillingand safe end-of-year break.• Listen to Charisse Zeifert on Jewish Board Talk,101.9 ChaiFM every Friday 12:00 - 13:00.This column is paid for by the SA Jewish Board of DeputiesWIZO pays tribute to itsdedicated stalwartsLAUREN PHILLIPSAt Grant Thornton, we don’t just recruit brain power. We also look forsustainable energy that keeps our bottom line growing.We recruit people with a passion for business, who combine reason and instinctto give the kind of advice that makes a real difference to the organisationsthey work with. They know it’s about more than just the numbers, it’s aboutenjoying tough challenges, seeking out opportunities and adding real value toour clients by unlocking their potential for growth.Visit www.gtcareers.co.za to find out more.www.gt.co.za© 2013 Grant Thornton South Africa. All rights reserved. Grant Thornton South Africa is a member firm ofGrant Thornton International Ltd (‘Grant Thornton International’).Annette Price and Marcia Parness havebeen made joint honorary life presidentsby WIZO Johannesburg, for their life-longcommitment and dedication to WIZO, atthe organisation’s culminating functionfor the year at Inyoni Creek. The functiontook place on November 19.A welcome address was given by NavaGonen (chairman of WIZO Johannesburg).Lorraine Rosmarin and Lee Joffe wereappointed as additional joint honorarylife vice-presidents, together with MusheKirsh, for their vital contribution to WIZOSouth Africa.Tamar Lazarus (president of WIZO SA)handed out the prestigious Rebecca Sieffawards for long service and commitment.The recipients were Zee Bergman;Wendy Roth; Sheila Bogatie; andLorraine Shein, for 40 years’ service;Joyce Chodos-Kruger; Elaine Smith; JaneLevitas; and Zelia Abramson for 50 years;and Annette Price for 60 years.A special tribute was paid to peoplewho have been exceptional supportersof WIZO and who contributed eitherwith their valuable time, expertise, orwith generous donations throughout theyears.Eileen Wainer entertained the audienceand the occasion ended with the singingof Hatikvah.Annette Price; Tamar Lazarus; and Marcia Parness.Photo by Joe YudelowitzJewish Report_bright_spark.indd 12013/11/04 3:21 PM

6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014ClassifiedsWhat’s On SA JEWISH REPORT 19To book your classified notice or advert contact: Tel (011) 274-1400, Fax 086-634-7935, email: jrclassified@global.co.zaIMPORTANT NOTICE - The Jewish Report runs adverts in the Classified section in good faith, however we cannot be responsible forthe quality of services offered and claims made.BEAUTY & HEALTHAUDIOLOGISTKELLY NATHANManor Medical Centre189 Kelvin DriveMorningside ManorTel: 0861-266-563(0861-Book Me)www.knaudiology.co.zaINDIVIDUALISEDSERVICE FOR ALL YOURHEARING NEEDSSERVICESMEMORIALSHawley Marble andGranite Works Est. 1948Monumental masons. Weare proud to have servedthe Johannesburg Jewishcommunity for manydecades. Your support ismuch appreciated. 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Venue: Our Parents Home. Time: 12:45 – 14:00. Contact: Gloria, 072-127-9421 or (011) 485-4851.• RCHCC, together with Ivor Ginsberg, hosts the last few days of an exhibition of originalartwork and graphics by Pieter van der Westhuizen. Exhibition closes: December 10.Hours: Monday - Thursday 09:00 - 16:00, Friday 09:00 - 12:00 noon, Sunday18:30 -21:30. Information: Hazel or René (011) 728-8088/8378, after hours (011) 728-8378,e-mail: rchcc@telkomsa.net or rene.s@telkomsa.net or www.greatpark.co.zaSunday (December 8)• RCHCC screens the documentary, “Broadway Musicals – a Jewish Legacy”. Venue: CliveM Beck Auditorium at the RCHCC. Time: 19:30. Cost: R70 (incl refreshments). Booking:Hazel or René (011) 728-8088/8378, after hours (011) 728-8378, e-mail: rchcc@telkomsa.net or rene.s@telkomsa.net or www.greatpark.co.zaTuesday (February 4)• Morris Rutstein-SAZF first semester “Evening Hebrew Ulpan” course commences today.It runs every Tuesday night from 19:00 to 21:15 and terminates on Tuesday, May 20.Venue: Yeshiva College (in the classrooms). Registration: Monday, February 3 at 18:30.Enquiries: SAZF (011) 645-2531 (office hours). Fax (011) 640-1992 or e-mail miriam@beyachad.co.za• UJW Leora Project, lending of rehabilitativeappliances: Need a walker,wheelchair, crutches? Borrowequipment on a short-term basis fora refundable deposit. Information:(011) 648-1053.• The Benevolent Gift Shop (formerlyBenarc Gift Shop) has gift presentationsfor all occasions, made to order.Call (011) 485-5232, JWBS. Allkosher under the Beth Din. Proceedsto support the less fortunate in ourcommunity.• Elise WIZO Gift Shop has an excitingrange of gifts available. Contact(011) 640-2760 or call in at Genesis,bottom level of the Genesis ShoppingCentre, 3 Bradfield Drive,Fairmount.south africanJewish ReportJoin a dynamic teamIf you think you fit the above criteria,e-mail me your resumé at karen@sajewishreport.co.za and let’s talk.• Chabad House hosts a series ofevents throughout the year. ChaiSeniors - Holistic & Kabbalistic Nourishment”.Daily programmes: Men’sKolel Mon-Fri at Chabad HouseLibrary, 09:00 -11:00, followedby lunch. Ladies Kolel Tuesdays &Thursdays. Special programmes:Mondays: Brain Worx with occupationaltherapist, Cynthia Liptz forbrain exercises, 09:00 – 13:00. Bothmen and women welcome. Tuesdays:Guest lectures. For more info:Rabbi Ari Kievman (011) 440-6600or e-mail rak@chabad.org.za• Bnoth Zion Association WIZO is collectinganything of value for its store.Contact (021) 464-6729 or LindaSaban 072-245-3225 or ChernaKredo 084-589-8588.• Intimate Antiques Fair held on lastSunday of every month at CedarSquare corner Witkoppen/CedarAvenue in Fourways, from 09:00 -16:00. Robyn 083-311-4768.• The Selwyn Segal Gift Centre haswell-priced gifts for all occasions.Visit them Monday to Thursday,08:30 to 16:00 and Friday till 14:00.Contact: (011) 640-6413 or (011)640-5171 or web site www.selwynsegalgifts.co.za• Join WIZO every Thursday fora “Lunch & Learn” shiur withRabbi Michael Katz, 13:00 - 14:00 atBeyachad. Information: WIZO office(011) 645-2515.• Stellenbosch Hebrew Congregationhas a Friday evening service everyweek in shul, starting at 18:45.Contact (021) 886-5257.Looking for competent sales executiveswho are ready for a challenge. Owntransport required. We need selfstarterswith initiative and drive.

20 SA JEWISH REPORT Sport30 November – 7 December 20Perfecting the art of how not to lose6 December 2013 – 17 January 2014SportSA JEWISH REPORT 20Double Maccabi honours for Dean FurmanROCKING THE BOATJack MilnerTo I do win not the profess Maccabi to Sportsman be authority of the Year onaward rugby. is During a massive my honour. time To at be school awarded I actually intwo developed countries a has hatred to be for unique. the That game is because what hashappened it was continually to soccer player jammed Dean down Furman. ourthroats. Earlier this year he was one of three JewishsportsmenHowever,honouredas I gotby Maccabiolder andSouthbecameAfrica.Lastmoreweekinvolvedhe was namedin theSeniorworldSportspersonof sport andof the Year at the 2013 Maccabi Great Britainbegan to understand the nuts and boltsof the game, I actually began to enjoyit very much. Whatever I might think Iknow, I will always bow in admiration tothe likes of commentator Dan Retief whohas a marvellous understanding of thesport.However, what I have learned duringmy tears as a sports journalist is how toanalyse a game. As I said last week, I havealways tried to maintain my objectivityand not become a “fan with a pen”.Last Saturday I only managed to see thesecond half of the Springboks versus EnglandTest but on Sunday morning I satthrough the replay. Knowing the result,I could put the excitement of a closeencounter behind and dispassionatelyinterpret what I had watched.After a little thought I came to thefollowing conclusion: In simple terms, allthat won us the game was an inspirationalmoment from Willem Alberts in whichSports Awards.It has been quite a good month for the25-year-old footballer. He was a member of theBafana Bafana team that beat Spain 1 - 0 atthe FNB Stadium and a couple of days later hescored his first goal for Doncaster in their 2 - 1win over Yeovil. The unfortunate part of thatstory is that he was sent off later in the match.It is sort of ironic that the top sportsman hasnot been to a Maccabiah, but that is probablytrue for most professional sporting people.However, Dean says that is something he wouldeventually like to change. After receiving hisaward, he said: “One day, when my career’s over,I’d like to attend a Maccabiah – hopefully as aCricketer Faf du Plessis is supported by his team player. as he A pulls lot of off my a best stunning friends, save and of of the course secondTest match against Australia in Adelaide. my brother, played at a Maccabiah.“I’ve heard great things about it as well ashe took advantage of a lucky bounce ofreadingin thearticlesfinalandminutewatchingwasvideosone ofandtheI hopemostthe ball to score the only try - and furthermoresuperb defence by the Boks. For capitulation, the record Dean as if beat to say off Lillian they were Geey happyto inane be part I of have it sometime ever seen. in the That future.” was totalI have said for the past few years that (Tennis), to lose Ivan by one Green point. (Triathlon), Jon Kurrantthe Boks are unable to play 80 minutes of (Futsal) On and that Carol subject, Taylor (Powerlifting) I was the one to win personattacking rugby. In the final 20 minutes the absolutely award. delighted by that decisionof the game they were probably lucky to Maccabi as I had SA backed also honoured England him on prior a minus to this 2,5have spent two of those minutes in the year’s spread Maccabi and Games. that whacky He joined decision mountain sealedEngland half. The remaining 18 minutes climber me my Lance win. Metz and cyclist Kevin Evans aswas played somewhere on the Boks’ 22m the three There Jewish no sportsmen doubt we honoured. have someline.At wonderful the same event players Maccabi in our SA team, also gave but specialis awards never to certain three other down South which African garden sport-pathoneThere is little doubt that England,when it comes to attacking, are equally ing coach heroes Heyneke - swimmer Meyer Penny is Heyns, leading cricketer them.inept and they certainly had enough Makhaya But Ntini coming and rugby back player to defence: Joost van All der sportschances. We kept conceding penalties in Westhuizen. are made up of offence and defence. It isthe dying moments but one has to say vital to have a balanced share of both. Itthat England’s decision to go for posts is also an art to know at which point of aWhat’s Ongame one needs to defend a lead. Howeer, defence is seemingly quickly becomiwhat South African sport is all about.While the Boks held England at bayin the north, managing to cling to a onpoint win, the Proteas looked to be heaing for certain Test defeat Down Underas they ended the fourth day under thecosh at 77 for four wickets, chasing 430to win.The match looked all over, with a wifor Australia certainty, but AB de Villiers,Jacques Kallis and especially Faf dPlessis, had other ideas. De Villiers kepDu Plessis company for 68 overs and anobbled Kallis for another 40 overs inthe searing Adelaide heat, as Du PlessisDean Furman receives his award as Britain’s Maccabi Sportsman of the Year from Maccabi GB’sAshley Lerner.tenaciously defied the Australian bowliattack for nearly eight hours.Dean also believes that Gordon IgesundMany people would have found theis building a solid Bafana Bafana team andpushing and prodding mind-numbing tthat the result was no accident. “We hada gamewatch,plan.butWeitknewtakesthea specialSpanishkindteamof prowere ficiency going to and keep mental the ball aptitude for large to periods stay ouof the there game, for but seven we hours know we’ve and 46 got minutes, some igreat mainly players 34 who degrees can catch heat them and high on the humidcounter ity, with attack five and different the plan partners, worked to one ofperfection. whom could barely run, to defy a voraciousand tenacious we’re delighted Australian to get the attack win a“Obviously,in front save of a crucial our home match fans. for We his cannot country. hideour disappointment This was a monumental in not going effort, to theWorld performed Cup, but on we debut have to and look already forward. writte Ithink into we’ve the got folklore a terrific of South group African of players crickand history. the squad is gelling all the time.“Now So, we’re while getting we might stronger lack and the stronger attackinand prowess have shown of a what Genghis we can Khan, do against South the Africanteam sport in the has world.” elevated the art of defencbestto another level. I suppose there is anadvantage in playing not to lose...And, Summer Cup bowled over by a Yorker!Sunday (December 2)• RCHCC is rescreening the award-winningfilm, “The Debt”, directed by JohnMadden and starring Helen Mirren,Sam Worthington, Jessica Castain andTom Wilkinson. Venue: Clive M BeckAuditorium. Time: 19:30. Donation:R60. Booking: Hazel or René (011) 728-8088/8378, after hours (011) 728-8378,e-mail: rchcc@telkomsa.net or rene.s@telkomsa.net or www.greatpark.co.za• JJMC, with musical director EvelynGreen presents a musical tribute to theDoornfontein Hebrew Congregation(Lions Shul), “Memories of Yesteryear”,as a fundraiser for the shul. The repertoirewill encompass traditional Jewishsongs. Secure parking. Time: 15:00.Tickets available from Darla at R200.083-794-6358 darlabrook@hotmail.comMonday (December 3)• UJW is hosting Marcia Leveson, formerprofessor of English at Wits, on “PleaseSir, I Want Some More”, Charles Dickensand children in this his bicentenaryyear. Time: 09:30. Contact: (011) 648-1053, fax 086 273-3044. Donation:R20. Join UJW for an informal tea afterthe lecture.Thursday (December 6)• UJW CT adult education division hostsIsaac Habib who will talk on “Jewish Lifein the Island of Rhodes – From Beginningto End”. Venue: Stonehaven. Time:10:00 for 10:30. Entrance: R20 (inclrefreshments). Enquiries: (021) 434-9555.Friday (December 7)• The United Sisterhood has its yearendbook sale at the Benmore GardensShopping Centre. Unwanted books andmagazine donations are gladly accepted.Contact: Tel (011) 646-2409; fax (011)646-4654.JACK MILNERIt is wonderful when sportsmen give off a positivevibe but that was not true of jockey Anton Marcuslast week. He said he was just “hopeful” aboard theBernard Kantor-owned Yorker in the Sansui SummerCup.Anton, however, demonstrated why he has beenchampion jockey on so many occasions with abrilliant ride aboard the son of Jet Master. Just ashis stable companion, Master Sabina, looked all overa winner in the centre of the course, Anton broughtYorker on the scene to win by 0,50 lengths.“I didn’t think he would stay. In the Charity Milehe moved up strongly with a double handful anddidn’t finish. He was very fit that day so I had myreservations about the extra 400m.”“But for the first time he dropped the bit thewhole way and settled.”Yorker, who went off at 8 - 1, runs in the coloursof Bernard Kantor and is owned in partnershipwith Markus and Ingrid Jooste and Jim Lewis.Geoff Woodruff, who pulled off an amazing featby training the first three horses past the post,said Yorker would go to Cape Town for the summerand the aim would be to run him in the R1million Queen’s Plate and then the R2,5-millionJ&B Met.World News in BriefPOPE CALLS FOR END TO PERSECUTION OF CHRISTIANS, NEW ME PEACE EFFORTSNOW AVAILABLE IN-STORE“The church encourages all efforts for peace in the world and in the Middle East, a peace that willWide range of Fairview Estate cheesesROME - At a gathering in Rome with Lebanon’s new cardinal, Pope Benedict XVI launched a new appealfor peace in Syria and the Middle East, the Associated Press reported.only be effective if it is based on authentic respect for other people,” Pope Benedict told the gathering,which included several Lebanese pilgrims.He also spoke out concerning the plight of Christians from their traditional homelands throughout theMiddle East, calling for them to be able to “live their faith freely”.Christian communities have come under assault by Muslims amid the upheaval related to theKosherWorld 10x8 261113.indd 1Find us inside KosherWorld“Arab Spring”. Tens of thousands of Syrian Christians have fl ed from the civil war there, while Egypt’sCoptic Christian community fears the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood and the ultra-extremist Salafigroups to power.Recently, several Coptic Christian teenage women were been assaulted by other women on Cairosubways because their hair was uncovered. Many Coptic women are now afraid to ride the transit systemin fear of being assaulted or sexually harassed, according to Morning Star News. (JNS.org)2013/11/27 2:34 PM