Hashalom December 2020 by Hashalom

OUR COMMUNITY | OUR PEOPLE | OUR MAGAZINE

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2.

Editorial

Current Affairs

In Conversation

Mark Immerman

Health

10.

Gardening

11.

Bubkes

12.

History

EDITORIAL BY HAYLEY LIEBERTHAL

14. Above Board 17.

Akiva

18. Eden 19. Durban United Hebrew Congregation 20. Beit David 21. Divote 22. KZNC 23. Union of Jewish Women 24. Wizo 26. Talmud Torah 28. Young Israel Centre 30. Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre 31. SAJBD 32. Durban Jewish Social Services 33. Masada 34. Cooking with Judy and Linda 36. Social & Personal The views expressed in the pages of Hashalom are not necessarily those of the Editorial Board or any other organisation or religious body unless otherwise Hashalom merely reflects views of particular organisation or individual.

Editor: Hayley Lieberthal Sub Editors: Colin Plen, Cookie Isaacs, Maureen Caminsky Editorial Board: Hayley Lieberthal, Michelle Campbell Lauren Shapiro, Mikki Norton Production Manager: Jacqui Herbst Notice to Organisations/Contributors: All material to be submitted by email to hashalom@djc.co.za DEADLINE FOR THE FEBRUARY EDTION: Friday, 8 January Get in touch with the editor: editor@djc.co.za

Advertisements Contact: Jacqui Herbst P.O. Box 10797 Marine Parade 4056 Tel: (031) 335 4451Email: hashalom@djc.co.za Hashalom is issued under the auspices of the SAJBD KZN Council, KwaZulu-Natal Zionist Council and the Durban Jewish Club. Typesetting Supplied. Designed by RBG Studios, email: rowan@rbgstudios.co.za Printed by RBG Studios

The year that was… a miracle? I’d like to think so! In the February 2020 edition of Hashalom I proposed the question of how we would measure a year in terms of its success. The answer at the time was that it boiled down to the people in our lives. Our beloved family, friends and community would make the year special, negating any trials or tribulations we would face. I had no idea just how true that would be, or what a crucial and rather vital part our community would play this year. From the start of lockdown and the months that have followed, we had adjusted and learnt what our new normal is. As the rug was pulled further and further out from under us, we rallied. And through it all, there was compassion for our fellow human beings. We empathised with those who were less fortunate and in true Jewish style we helped each other and those in need outside of the community. When we couldn’t open our arms for comfort, we opened our hearts. Our experiences this year have helped us to understand why life is precious, and now more than ever we see how each day is a gift. We can take solace that, no matter what 2021 has in store for us, we have each other. I am proud to call myself a Durbanite. I am grateful to be part of this loving community, and although history will mention the pandemic of 2020, I will be remembering and telling the story of a small community that came together and stood taller than any monument. 2020 isn’t quite over, and the virus will still be around in 2021, maybe a few months, maybe a bit longer, but I know that we have got this. I know that we have each other, and as we light our Chanukah candles, let’s pause to contemplate the miracle that out of a pandemic in the 21st Century, in living memory, came a deeper compassion for all of humanity. Now that’s a Chanukah miracle in the making.

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2 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

Happy Chanukah

56534 The fire tree design

From all the management and staff at

CURRENT AFFAIRS

CAUTION: SECOND WAVE RISING The possible arrival of a safe and effective Covid-19 vaccine does not mean we can take our foot off the throat of the beast. BY JACQUELINE HERBST peak of the first wave. Winde urged South Africans to scale down or postpone year-end festive celebrations: “Citizens have to play their part because it is not going to help anybody if we have large gatherings in our homes and in confined spaces as those become super-spreader events. We must be under no illusions as to how serious the situation is and how quickly it can deteriorate. I can assure you our economy cannot afford a further lockdown”. The process of approving a new vaccine in SA While the discovery of a number of promising vaccines inspires hope, there are still a streak of hoops to jump through before such a vaccine is authorized for safe use in South Africa. Getting a safe, effective Covid-19 vaccine approved and registered is a balancing act between the urgent need for a vaccine and the need to ensure it is safe to use.

he South African Jewish Board of Deputies KwaZulu-Natal (SAJBD KZN) Covid-19 Crisis Management Team (CMT) is concerned about a lurking resurgence of the virus in KZN if people continue to disregard Covid-19 transmission and protective measures. Fears of a possible second wave of infections escalated following a string of positive cases subsequent to a recent super-spreader event within the Durban Jewish community. “An outbreak occurred among a group of community members who recently attended the same party. The CMT is very worried about a resurgence of the virus and we urge all community members to avoid super spreader events, especially where alcohol is served,” said the CMT’s David Unterslak. Although KZN’s number of new and active cases has up to now remained relatively stable, Unterslak is worried that the mass descent of festive season holiday makers on the KZN coastline may trigger a resurgence in Covid-19 cases, not only in KZN, but nationwide when people return home to their respective provinces and cities. He added that the arrival of Matric Rage’s coming to our shores is a major concern to us.

Any vaccine that is to be distributed in South Africa must first be authorised by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and that doesn’t happen overnight. In addition, before any vaccinations can take place, the South African National Medicines List Committee will first identify priority populations. This process is often slow, and time and again limits access to new medicines in South Africa. Furthermore, pharmaceutical companies will have to be prompt in submitting dossiers for the registration of Covid-19 vaccines in South Africa. To fast-track the process, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has set up certain prequalification processes. However, vaccines may not be appropriate for use in South Africa and additional bridging studies may be required for vaccines not trialed in countries that are not similar to South Africa. Our country’s ability to maintain the cold chain at specific facilities is also a factor as the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine must be kept at minus 70 degrees Celsius at all times. Provision has, nevertheless, been made to authorise unregistered medicines for use to satisfy unmet medical needs in specific patients or defined groups who have no other registered alternative.

Confirmed resurgence in the Cape Following a steady rise in infections since October, a confirmed resurgence of Covid-19 was declared in the Western Cape in the last week of November. This is while the Eastern Cape has also been dealing with as sharp increase in new cases.

Types of vaccines Some vaccines may not be appropriate for immune compromised people to use. Live-attenuated vaccines that are made from a weaker form of the virus that causes the disease are not suitable for immune compromised people such as transplant patients.

“A resurgence is when the number of active cases increase, week-on-week by more than 20%. In the last week of November the Western Cape experienced a 52.1% jump in new cases, with an established pattern over time,” said Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde.

None of the current top three contenders are live vaccines. The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine applies the traditional method of utilizing a modified, harmless cold virus to carry genetic information on Covid-19 into the body in order to get the immune system to respond.

In terms of the pattern of spread seen in South Africa during the first wave, it is extremely concerning that by late November, the Western Cape’s increase in positive tests, in proportion to the number of tests done, was comparable to the province’s statistics in May 2020. At the same time, George and Knysna recorded their highest number of new cases ever, exceeding the

On the other hand, the Pfizer/BioNtech and Moderna vaccines were created by means of a new method. These vaccines carry a small amount of genetic material, which were created in a laboratory to match the spike protein on the surface of the pandemic virus, and thus when given to recipients the body in turn will trigger the immune system to fight the virus.

4 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

IN CONVERSATION

HASHALOM DEC 2020

SAY WHAT? PR pundit Lauren Shantall on the state of the media industry, work-life balance, and why she paints BY LAUREN SHAPIRO

urban-bred Lauren Shantall is making strides in her profession and her passion – big strides that are taking her name all over the world. Her company Scout PR & Social Media has been awarded the title of PR & Social Media Agency of the Year in South Africa at the 2020 Media Innovator Awards (hosted by UKbased Corporate Vision Magazine, which showcases companies doing truly great things within their field).

Scout received a Distinction for Social Media at the AAXO ROAR awards earlier in the year. These join Lauren’s long list of accolades, including a BWA (Business Woman of the Year) Emerging Entrepreneur in 2016 and Instagram Account to Watch 2018. Where media’s headed “I’ve worked in communications since 1996 and I thrive in that space,” Lauren reflects. She was a journalist for 17 years before branching out into PR. “They are two facets of the same industry,” she observes. This industry has since evolved to incorporated social media. “This change has been accelerating over the last 10 years, and even more so now, with the collapse of many print titles. Much of our work is with social media influencers, who are the new media mouthpieces,” Lauren reveals. The Media Innovator Award proves she has her finger on the pulse of the business. Naturally, Lauren is “thrilled” with the award. “It has always been our mission to deliver consistently excellent results at affordable rates for our clients,” she asserts. “This is very much part of what makes us a new-wave agency and also makes us even more relevant now as businesses start to recover from lockdown.”

happens soon, as I could use another me! I wish I had much more time with my family and work and painting.” A brush with passion The multitalented Lauren has recently revealed a secret talent for painting – and has been invited to display her work at Galeria Azur in Spain after being spotted on Instagram. The Agora Gallery in New York want to show her work, and she was one of ten Open Call Finalists at the Brick Lane Gallery in London. She has twice exhibited with the Vacant Museum, which features artists from around the globe. Where did this creativity come from? After the national lockdown was eased, Lauren began painting landscapes, “inspired by the natural world that awaits beyond our doors and the exuberance I experienced when encountering them afresh.” Lauren studied art for matric under Maggie Strachan, and was encouraged by Gloria Hoff at the KZNSA gallery shop, and a supportive mother Marge who has kept all her childhood art. Lauren has since taken classes with respected artists Clare Menck and Diana Page, and for the past two years she’s joined weekly creativity classes with artist and curator Sue Kaplan (now on Zoom). “It’s been incredible for me,” she declares. Where to from here? Asked if she would consider leaving the PR world behind to become a full-time artist, Lauren demurs. “I find that the creativity classes feed back into my communications strategies in terms of how I approach problems and creative processes,” she reasons. “Painting is a great outlet for my need to express. It’s also known to lower cortisol levels, so it helps relieve stress. This is a massive win-win for me and I don’t plan on changing how well it’s working!” Lauren’s work is part of Exhibition Collectiva, the opening group show at Galeria Azur, until 22 November. www.galeriaazur.es, @galeriaazurmadrid www.laurenshantall.com, @laurenshantall

Roots and shoots After matriculating from Carmel College in 1991 and completing an undergrad at UKZN, Lauren moved to the mother city for a post-grad in English at UCT. Yet she has in a way come full circle to her roots, basing her business (est 2013) in Durban Road, Little Mowbray. She met her husband, music writer and producer Derek Eyden, 13 years ago while walking their dogs in the forest. They now have five dogs and a son, Daniel, who is 11. She strives to balance her family commitments with work and hobbies, but it can be tricky. “I gave up watching TV series but I still don’t have enough time for everything,” she confesses. “I hope that human cloning

FORBES AFRICA

EXPERT SPEAK | RENEWABLE ENERGY

• BY MARC IMMERMAN

The Business Case For Sustainable Investing The critical aspects of future African energy systems.

OVID-19 IS PROVING TO BE AN EPIDEMIC OF historic proportions. The scale and ferocity with which it has claimed lives and ravaged economies is staggering. The virus appears to highlight many aspects of modern-day society guilty of excess. High density cities and consumerist behavior patterns of excess are the hardest hit. In contrast, and as detailed in the media, the planet is almost taking a breath. Dolphins have been spotted in the Venetian canals, the air is cleaner, Springboks have been spotted in Bethlehem and many more viral videos are evidence. Companies are realizing that expansive, fullystaffed, crowded offices are not completely necessary and not totally efficient. By accepting a more flexible working environment, corporates will encourage less congestion and pollution. The move online reduces congestion, energy use and most importantly, waste. Clearly, there is a confluence of factors stemming from Covid-19 that can have positive by-products for our planet and the human race despite the horrific current impact. Eleven years ago, I left a traditional investment banking and executive career due to an epiphany of wanting to do something meaningful. As passé as that sounds, it was reinforced with the impending arrival of my children who I wanted to be proud of my legacy. Thanks to a case of good timing and persistence, I joined Metier, a leading pan-African private equity manager, to develop a new private equity practice focused on clean/green sustainable investing. Since that point, we have invested in 540MW of renewable energy, successfully partnered with water and waste efficiency companies and raised a successor fund to further our ambitions. A decade ago, the business case for sustainable investing was only just emerging. Renewables were substantially more expensive than the antiquated coal thermal plants. No cost was assigned to a commodity that arguably holds another material long-term risk for mankind – carbon. The financial markets were exempt from environmental considerations save for still-developing arguments for stakeholder-centric models, triple bottom-line reporting and ESG (environmental, social

and corporate governance) compliance. Back then, institutional investors and pension funds, being the largest holders of capital, did not consider the investment case centered on resource efficiency to be compelling as paybacks were unproven, the experience curve for new technologies was theoretical and government frameworks to encourage climate-sensitive investing were contentious and costly. It was considered a concessional and unbankable industry reliant on subsidies and government support. Waste and water management were not prioritized as their opportunity costs were rounding differences in project decision-making. Thankfully, today, the situation is evolving. For the first time in history, the lowest cost and emission energy solutions are aligned. Renewables are not only cheaper than new builds of its primary competitor technologies but can be deployed faster and at a smaller scale – both critical aspects in future African energy systems. Symbiotically, as mobiles displaced landline infrastructure, captive smaller-scale solar energy fills in the gaps for the many billions of people with no energy access. The resultant multiplier impact is material for our economies and social development. The value of waste, be it the cost-saving, revenue generation or limited disposal alternatives, is now mimicking that of the energy landscape some 10 years ago. Should this trend continue, the business case for water and waste management will become clearly commercial in the nearterm, rather than relying on national or corporate policy directives. Is it a coincidence that the ramifications of a deadly virus can have the medium-term impact that is desperately required by the planet we inhabit? Perhaps. The more imperative question is whether mankind will develop the requisite institutional memory to maintain a new status quo. My own goal and that of our Metier sustainable capital practice is to contribute meaningfully to that transition. – The writer is Managing Principle, Metier Sustainable Capital, and based in South Africa.

24 | FORBES AFRICA OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020

6 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

FORBESAFRICA.COM

HASHALOM DEC 2020

we know you care 7

BY HAYLEY LIEBERTHAL

PART THREE – THE PERFECT PAIR The last instalment on how to get the most nutrients out of the foods we eat

ood pairing has been shown to help with weight loss, enhance digestion, increase our energy and assist our bodies in absorbing the most nutrients from our food. Not all foods digest in the same timeframe or in the same manner in our body. For those that aren’t in the know, digestion begins from the moment we start chewing our food and continues to be broken down all the way through the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract which includes the small intestine where most of the nutrients and minerals we eat are absorbed. Although our body has all the necessary enzymes to break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates, some nutrients in the foods we eat are more easily absorbed when paired with other foods to create a beneficial chemical reaction. When foods are well paired in this way, the digestive system doesn’t have to work as hard to get optimal benefit from the food we eat. Rice: Toss with Oil In the November edition of Hashalom, “Part two: Food Prep” we highlighted how cooling potatoes reduces their

glycaemic index (GI). The same applies to rice; however, there is more in store with this staple food by adding a few drops of olive vegetable oil. According to research done by the College of Chemical Sciences in Sri Lanka, unsaturated fat (part of the essential food groups) acts as a barrier to rapid digestion. This also prevents fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Cooking tip: Boil a pot of water and drop in a teaspoon of coconut oil before you add the rice. Don’t forget to let the rice cool down (preferably overnight in the fridge) to turn this high GI food into low GI. Reheating the rice doesn’t affect the starch levels. Salad: Pair with Olive Oil or Avocado Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that help stave off hunger. The combination of a healthy fat with vitaminrich greens (such as a salad) is essential for your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin K which is important for blood clotting and healthy bones. Cooking tip: drizzle olive oil (extra virgin is best),

8 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

HASHALOM DEC 2020 Chickpeas and Olive Oil Ever wondered why hummus is served with olive oil? If you didn’t know by now, chickpeas are a superfood. High in nutrients and soluble fibre, they are not only a weightloss weapon, and they increase feelings of satiety and are thus golden when it comes to releasing the appetitesupressing hormone cholecystokinin. When blended with olive oil, this superfood combo has been linked to increased blood levels of serotonin – so not only will you be feeling happier for eating it, you will be feeling fuller for longer – double happiness right there! Nut Butter and Banana The science behind pairing peanut butter and banana is that the protein in the nuts and the complex carbohydrate in the banana will, keep you fuller for longer, stabilise your blood sugar and even aid muscle recovery postworkout. Shopping tip: Before placing your good old favourite peanut butter in the trolley, read the label and choose healthy options such as a nut butter that doesn’t have added sugar or salt. Cooking tip: Blend 250 ml almond milk, two tablespoons peanut butter and a banana for a delicious on-the-go meal or snack. Yoghurt and Cinnamon

over your greens or add a tablespoon of guacamole or fresh avocado, which is also packed with healthy monounsaturated fats. Spinach: add Lemon Juice According to the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron, so serve iron-rich foods like spinach with foods high in Vitamin C, for example fresh lemon juice or raw tomatoes Cooking tip: Squeeze a lemon over your spinach or add some lemon juice to your morning smoothie, and reap the rewards of this dynamic duo. Turmeric: Pair with Black Pepper A study conducted by the St. John’s Medical College in India, found that black pepper boosts the absorbability of curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric that helps to reduce inflammation. Piperine – a component of black pepper - helps to slow down the liver’s metabolism of curcumin, giving the body more time to digest it Cooking tip: Create a zesty dry rub by adding your desired amount of curry powder, turmeric, freshly ground black pepper, cumin, cardamom, coriander, dry mustard, and if you like it extra hot, a little cayenne pepper. Use it to season chicken, fish or meat.

A study by the Nutrition Journal found that diets rich in both Calcium and vitamin D can reduce the amount of fat the body absorbs and stores. Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to improving insulin sensitivity. Cooking tip: Bircher’s Muesli is an easy, healthy and popular breakfast. Add two tablespoons of raw oats and a dash of cinnamon to a tub of unsweetened yoghurt tub (125-175ml). Leave overnight and enjoy in the morning. You can also add thinly sliced apple (ensure it is covered by the yoghurt so that it does not turn brown). Knowing your healthy fats Unsaturated fats contain one or more double- or triple bonds between the molecules. These fats are liquid at room temperature. They also occur in solid foods. This group breaks down further into two categories, called monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. Dietary sources of unsaturated fats include: • avocados and avocado oil • olives and olive oil • peanuts, peanut butter and peanut oil • vegetable oils such as sunflower, corn, or canola oil • fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel • nuts and seeds, such as almonds, cashews, and sesame seeds

GARDENING

Give your garden that

wow factor BY JACQUELINE HERBST

“it also does well as a container plant on the patio”

The dense terminal clusters of flowers are followed by clusters of green, urnshaped fruits that are crowned with distinctive horn-like calyx lobes. As the fruits ripen, they become woody and remain on the tree for many months.

As the earth turns on its tilted axis, angling the South Pole toward the sun, gardens below the equator begin to gently wrap themselves in green shoots and pops of splendid colour. Penetrating rain in early spring cued our Durban gardens to exchange their winter schmuttes for lush garments, bursting with colour and fragrance. All over the city and up and down the coast, flowers are showing their bright faces, beckoning Sunbirds, butterflies and busy bees. Local landscaper, Jenny Dean from Jenny Dean Wild Flowers, suggests adding a dash of orange to your summer garden by planting Burchellia bubaline. Endemic to the coastal strip of South Africa from the Western Cape through to KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Province as well as Swaziland, Burchellia bubaline is commonly known as wild pomegranate. Earning its common name from the resemblance between its young flowers and that of the true pomegranate, this evergreen shrub’s cluster of bright orange tubular flowers inspire beauty to the eye from September through to January. Sunbirds love the wild pomegranate’s nectar-rich flowers and it also attracts other nectar-loving birds as well as butterflies. Hardy and fairly drought resistant, the wild pomegranate grows up to around two metres in height (occasionally three metres), with beautiful dark green glossy leaves and a spread of one and a half metres.

Propagating wild pomegranate Wild pomegranate can effortlessly be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be harvested in October and sown straight after and take about four to six weeks to germinate. Half-ripe cuttings can be taken in either spring or autumn and take about three to four weeks to root. Once rooted, cuttings can be transplanted to containers filled with potting soil and left to harden off before planting out in the garden.

The bark of the young shrub is greybrown in colour and smooth textured. As it ages, the texture roughens and young, soft leaves mature to a more leathery texture. Although a slow grower, the wild pomegranate will start flowering from an early age if well-watered and fed. “Plant in semi-shade in wellcomposted soil with a handful of bone meal at the roots. Water Burchellia bubaline well twice a week. Once established, normal rainfall will suffice,” says Jenny.

Other uses As a monotypic genus (only one species), Burchellia bubaline belongs to the coffee family, Rubiaceae that in turn has over 500 genera and in the region of 700 species that are found mostly in the tropics. In addition to being ornamental and attractive to birds, the wild pomegranate’s hard, dense and close-grained wood makes is ideal for building huts and making agricultural implements such as hoe handles and cattle yokes. Owing to its hardness, the bark and roots can be combined to make splints for binding fractured limbs of animals out in the field.

This versatile shrub adds bright colour to shaded areas, but can also be planted in semi-shade or full sun. “Clivia miniata (bush lily) and Crocosmia aurea (falling stars) are beautiful at the base of a wild pomegranate,” Jenny says. In small gardens, the showy, but neat ornamental specimen puts on a beautiful display and it also does well as a container plant on the patio as it has a non-aggressive root system.

10 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

In traditional medicine, the roots are taken as an emetic to cleanse the body while in conjunction with some other plant parts; the roots are sometimes used to concoct a love charm.

At what cost? Jenny says a healthy specimen retails between R110 and R250, depending on the size of the shrub. Since Burchellia bubaline is a slow grower, a bigger, more established shrub will give more instant results.

BUBKES

HASHALOM DEC 2020

FESTIVALS OF LIGHTS light guiding one’s way and keeping one safe during this sacred time.

e all know that Chanukkah is the festival of lights. We celebrate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days and the military victory that lightened our yoke of oppression. But we’re not the only ones. Many cultures have not only symbols, but entire festivals dedicated to light. I was drawn towards this idea like a moth to a flame, so I thought I’d do a little “light” research. I started by investigating the ubiquitous glitzy displays of Christmas lights. Before the advent of electricity allowed the spectacle of multicoloured twinkles snaking up and down buildings, modest candles were balanced in trees to symbolize Christ’s birth bringing light and growth to the world. I’m sure these made a beautiful sight (for everyone but the local firemen. Perhaps the move to modern electrics wasn’t altogether a bad thing.) Similarly, traditional clay diya lamps have been augmented by extravagant high-tech pyrotechnics in honour of the Hindu festival of Diwali, although the significance is the same: to epitomize the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and enlightenment over ignorance. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims light decorative lanterns called Fanoos. There are a few explanations for this custom, but a popular one dates back over a thousand years to the arrival of a great caliph in Egypt. Residents held candles to light his way, and crafted lanterns to keep the flames alive, beautifying them with ornate engravings and coloured glass to please the caliph. The lamps have since become a common symbol of

In China and the general medina, folk mark the end of winter with the Spring Festival (also known as the Chinese New Year). Part of the revelry includes the Lantern Festival to scare aware the Nian monster and bring good luck for the coming year. Lantern Festival customs vary from region to region and can include handheld, hanging, floating, and flying lanterns. Today celebrations often involve fireworks and flying drones. The Buddhists have Khao Phansa, the “candle festival” that commemorates the Buddha’s first sermon and marks the beginning of the rainy season when monks would secret themselves in their temples. Donation of candles apparently began as a practical way to support the monks and earn merit but has evolved into a major holiday with giant waxwork sculptures parades through the streets of Thailand. I find it fascinating that not only

the Jewish festivals, but also those of the Muslims, Hindus, Chinese and Buddhists are all scheduled according to the lunar calendar (or the lunisolar calendar, whose complex mechanisms I shall not attempt to expound here because I couldn’t quite grasp it myself, but it also involves the moon). Even Christmas is rooted in the star which the wise men followed to the nativity. Perhaps it’s because light shows up better at night. When we’re wallowing in darkness, we can best appreciate Hashem’s radiance. You might even say that Hashem’s word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (okay, I stole that one from King David – whose followers, for the record, called him the light of Israel). Light is a recurring theme (a lightmotif?) of Jewish experience history. We Jews are fond of our flames: for Channukah, for Shabbat, for Havdallah, for Yom Tov, for yahrzheits, for load-shedding (what,

that’s just me? I say a prayer and everything!) We use candles to search for chametz on erev Pesach. We light bonfires on Lag B’omer. Flames light up our history, from the burning bush to the pillars of fire to the golden Menorah and burnt offerings. The whole universe was created with the words, “Let there be light”. Rashi’s famous commentary of the Torah begins by questioning why, since the Torah is geared at Jews, Hashem chose to open the Torah with the creation story, rather than the first commandment given to the Jewish People (the one about Rosh Chodesh, which governs all our religious holidays and only occurs well into the second of the five books of the Torah). Rashi reasons that it is to teach us the Divine origins of the world, including (geographically and philosophically) the land of Israel. But I rather like an interpretation by Rabbi Shuki Reich. By beginning the Torah with the stories of the creation and our patriarchs, Reich states, we are taught how people conducted themselves before the giving of the Torah and its mitzvot. This is called Derech Eretz (the way of the land or “the right way”), and it’s basically how to be a mensch. Like our forefathers, we are first human beings, then Jews. This is summed up in the maxim “Derech Eretz precedes Torah”. That light of creation – that spark of Godliness – that created the whole world, shines in all human beings. We are all God’s children. I’m going to close with a quote by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks (for best effect, read it out loud in that stenorous, beautifully enunciated, soul-stirring timbre): “For though my faith is not yours and your faith is not mine, if we are each free to light our own flame, together we can banish some of the darkness of the world.” Since we are all made in the image of God, we should all begin our stories, every day, with the words: “Let there be light.” Wishing you a Channukah sameach – or, to borrow a convenient catchall from a politically correct atheist friend of mine: “merry everything and a happy always”. Until next time.

IN HISTORY

DECEMBER IN HISTORY 1 DEC

1939

2 DEC

1978

3 DEC

1984

“Do they know it’s Christmas” a single is sung by Band Aid and written by Midge Ure and

4 DEC

1978

Dianne Feinstein is named as San Francisco’s

5 DEC

1496

Jews are expelled from Portugal by order of King Manuel I.

6 DEC 7 DEC

2017 1913

Polish Jews are forced to wear Star of David armbands,

Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand’s “You don’t bring me flowers” hits #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Jewish born musician and song writer Bob Geldof, is released in the United Kingdom.

1st ever Jewish female mayor.

US President Donald Trump officially recognises Jerusalemas Israel’s capital and announces plans to move the US embassy there. Swedish diplomat Per Johan Valentin Anger, later recognised by the Yad Vashem in 1982 as a “righteous gentile”, is born. Anger was Raoul Wallenberg’s co-worker at the Swedish legation in Budapest during World War II saving many Jews who were supplied with Swedish passports.

8 DEC

1980

9 DEC

1940

“Illegal” Jewish immigrants to Haifa are deported to Mauritius.

10 DEC

1984

South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu is presented with his Nobel Peace Prize.

11 DEC

1878

Jewish born Annie Leibovitz has a photo-shoot with John Lennon; she was the last person to professionally photograph him before he was murdered on the same day.

In the Anglo-Zulu war, British high commissioner Henry Bartle Frere presents an ultimatum to the Zulu Kingdom to submit to British rule or face war. The Zulu Kingdom rejects the ultimatum and although the Zulu army had some victories, the British eventually won the war in 1879.

12 DEC

1966

A Man for All Seasons” a film based on the play by Robert Bolt, directed by Jewish born Fred Zinnemann, premieres in New York City and wins Best Picture at the 1967 Academy Awards.

13 DEC

1928

Jewish born composer and pianist George Gershwin’s, “An American in

14 DEC

1981

Israel annexes the Golan Heights (seized from Syria in the 1967 war).

Paris” - a jazz-influenced orchestral piece - premieres in New York City.

12 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

HASHALOM DEC 2020

15 DEC 16 DEC

1488 1969

Bartolomeu Dias returns to Portugal after becoming the 1st known European to sail around the Cape of Good Hope and thus setting up the route from Europe to Asia. “Hello Dolly” written and produced by Jewish born Ernest Lehman, starring Barbra Streisand, and premieres in New York City. The film won three Academy Awards in 1970 for Best Art Direction, Best Score of a Musical Picture and Best Sound and was nominated for a further four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

17 DEC

1728

18 DEC

1946

19 DEC

1831

20 DEC

1971

21 DEC

1963

22 DEC

1877 1938

23 DEC

Congregation Shearith Israel of New York purchases a lot on Mill Street in lower Manhattan to build the city’s first synagogue.

Birth of Jewish movie film director, producer and screenwriter Steven Spielberg in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jews are granted equality by Governing Council in Jamaica. First preview of “MS” magazine is published in the US, launched by Jewish born Gloria Steinem.

Second Auschwitz trial begins in Frankfurt, Germany.

Thomas Edison’s phonograph is announced by Scientific American.

The coelacanth, which is related to lungfishes and tetrapods, believed to have been extinct since the end of the Cretaceous period, is found on the east coast of South Africa, off the Chalumna River (now Tyolomnqa).

24 DEC 25 DEC

1997 1938

1st time a Chanukah candle is officially lit in the Vatican City. Jewish born George Cukor (director) announces that Vivien Leigh will play Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the wind”. At the 1939 Academy awards the film went on to win Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Editing, and received two further honorary awards for its use of equipment and colour (it also became the first colour film to win Best Picture).

30 DEC

1931 1967 1976 1948 1993

George and Ira Gershwin’s Pulitzer Prize-winning musical play “Of Thee I

31 DEC

1946

US President Harry Truman officially proclaims the end of WWII.

26 DEC 27 DEC 28 DEC 29 DEC

Sing” premieres on Broadway, New York City. Singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist Leonard Cohen, releases his debut album “Songs of Leonard Cohen”.

Winnie Mandela is banished to the Brandfort in the Free State. Canada recognises the State of Israel upon its founding in May, and the two countries establish formal diplomatic relations on May 11, 1949. The Vatican recognises Israel; Israel and the Vatican approve an agreement on this day to establish diplomatic ties and fight anti-Semitism.

ABOVE BOARD

BY MARY KLUK NATIONAL CHAIRMAN A COLUMN OF THE SA JEWISH BOARD OF DEPUTIES

VIGILANCE IN DANGEROUS TIMES In October, a little more than two years after the Board laid a case against him, Twitter antisemite Matome Letsoalo was found guilty of crimen injuria by the Randburg Magistrate’s Court and subsequently sentenced to three years imprisonment, suspended for five years subject to his not repeating the same offence part during that period. The origins of the case go back to June 2018, when the Board’s Twitter was tagged with a message from Letsoalo accompanied by an image of Holocaust victims and reading: “@SAJBD The #Holocaust will be like a picnic when we are done with all you Zionist bastards. F*** all of you.” This was followed by a second message reading: “@SAJBD must get decimated. We can’t have Scandanavian rats, fake Jews, Zionist bastards running our economy.” The court took the matter very seriously, with both prosecutor and magistrate commenting that hateful statements were becoming all too prevalent in South Africa and that the courts had a responsibility to send a strong message that such behaviour would not be tolerated. This, ultimately, is what we aimed to achieve when taking on this matter. It was not just about bringing to account a single individual offender, but about demonstrating to those who would emulate him that our community is not fair game, that we have the will and the means to strenuously respond to antisemitically-motivated attacks and that in doing so, we have recourse to effective laws strictly prohibiting racially motivated hate speech in our country. Just one week after Letsoalo’s sentencing, the Board found itself back in the same court, this time concerning an interim protection order it had applied for against another purveyor of online antisemitism, Jan Lamprecht. The application was made by SAJBD Gauteng Chairperson Prof Karen Milner, who earlier this year had lodged a case of crimen injuria against Lamprecht for persistently propagating virulent antisemitism on his online platforms. Prof Milner applied for the order after Lamprecht had posted her personal details

along with disparaging comments about her on his website, resulting in her receiving hate mail. The court granted the order, which will remain in place until Lamprecht’s next court appearance in March next year. The Board has to choose carefully when deciding what cases of online antisemitism to take on given of how much time and resources it inevitably takes to follow each case through. We need to identify those incidents that are of an especially serious nature before making such a decision. We also prefer to follow the route of restorative rather than punitive justice when confronting the perpetrators of antisemitism. This means we would rather achieve resolution through the perpetrator/s admitting fault, sincerely apologising for the offence and undertaking to educate themselves about the dangers of antisemitism and other forms of prejudice. However, we recognise that conciliation and education is not appropriate when taking on died-in-the-wool, crusading antisemites who persistently propagate hatred and even incite harm against Jews. Jan Lamprecht, an enthusiastic purveyor of pro-Nazi, white-supremacist and radical antisemitic ideologies, is one such individual. For this reason, it was decided to lay a criminal charge against him in order to call him to account for his actions and to compel him to desist from repeating them in the future.

CHANNUKAH SAMEACH May your home be full of happiness, your hearts full of love and your smiles full of joy this Channukah season. www.bdo.co.za

Hashalom Chanukah Greeting.indd 1

© 2020 BDO South Africa. All rights reserved. BDO South Africa is a member firm of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, and forms part of the international BDO network of independent member firms. BDO is the brand name for the BDO network and for each of the BDO Member Firms.

2020/11/24 16:22

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YEARS O F E XC E L L E N C E S PA N N I N G

EDEN COLLEGE GIVES YOU A PLACE TO BE You! BY NORMA BLOCH

n the fourth term, as in every year, we have many tasks to complete. We all rush to finish revision for exams; the pupils are all preparing and studying and the teachers are arranging the exams. Then there is marking and reports to write followed by Prize Giving and final assemblies to prepare for.

With all this, the beautiful bookcase PJ Library donated to us was greatly appreciated and the pupils had great fun sorting and stacking these exquisite books in our new acquisition. We all received our Shabbat project gift from the Chief Rabbi filled with different materials to educate and encourage participation in the annual Shabbat Project.Â Our final celebration for the year is our combined Talmud Torah and Eden Prize Giving, which we are all looking forward to. lehitraot

Asher and Meliza

Enjoying our favourite books

18 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

Grade 7 showing off their Shabbat project gift

COMMUNITY NEWS

HASHALOM DEC 2020

BACK TO SHUL BY MICHAEL GREENBAUM

n Shabbat Bereshit, there was also another new beginning as the Silverton Road Shul opened again after 7 long months. All health precautions have been implemented including a maximum capacity control and sanitisation of all books and surfaces. The Shul’s Terrace doors have been opened and there is good ventilation throughout. At this time, the Shul is open for Shabbat evening and Shabbat morning services and soon will be open for daily weekday services. It was with great pleasure that we can now return to our beautiful and holy Shul. The Shul is truly the spiritual and communal centre of our community. In the meantime, there is still the continuing virtual Friday night Kabbalat Shabbat service and Shiurim including Sunday and Monday evenings and the Ladies’ shiur on Wednesday, all through the Zoom computer meeting system. A very interesting shiur was given by Rabbi Yehoshua Grunstein, Director of Training and Placement at the Straus-Amie, and Beren-Amiel Institute of Ohr Torah Stone which prepares spiritual leaders to serve the Jewish world around the globe to promote a Judaism based on Halacha, loving-kindness, professionalism and unity. In his shiur, Rabbi Grunstein said one must practice Judaism, not only physically doing mitzvot, but doing them with feeling, warmth and a good heart because a mitzvah sanctifies the person doing it. On the sad occasion of the recent passing of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”tl, Rabbi Zekry gave a shiur on leadership and Rabbi Sacks’ profound influence as a global spokesman for Judaism. He said Rabbi Sacks was a great leader, philosopher, thinker and role model for many communities around the world. Rabbi Zekry said that all great leaders such as Avraham and Moshe were humble and never wanted to be leaders. He concluded that all successful leaders have the quality of taking personal, moral and collective responsibility by working selflessly for the good of the community and the world. As Rabbi Sacks said “Leadership demands two types of courage: the strength to take a risk, and the humility to admit when a risk fails. Great leaders make people better, kinder and nobler than they would be otherwise.

The paradigm case was Moses, the man who had more lasting influence than any other leader in history. He did it by teaching the Israelites not to hate.” In that same week of Rabbi Sack’s passing, Rabbi Zekry said that the Jewish world also lost HaRav Dovid Feinstein z”tl, a master of Halacha and all areas of Torah and one of the the greatest poskim and talmidei chachomim of our generation. HaRav Feinstein also served as Rosh Yeshiva of the famous Mesivta Tiferes Jerusalem Yeshiva in Manhattan since 1986, taking over after the death of his father, the late Rabbi Moshe Feinstein. Any interaction with him served as a lesson in how one can embrace one’s own humility without diminishing one’s sense of responsibility,” the Orthodox Union said. “Despite his renowned position within the Jewish world, ‘Rav Dovid’ was known for his unparalleled humility and kindness,” Shabbat Project: Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Shabbat Project was different to any other year as Jews all over the world participated according to the theme this year of ‘[Bringing it home” encouraging everyone to bring Shabbat into their homes. Among the various ideas this year was to enable to send flowers for Shabbat to someone in SA or Israel, to show appreciation to that individual or organisation for their dedicated work over the past few months. A virtual unity challah bake was organised by the Union of Jewish Women. The Shabbat Project is a global, grassroots movement that unites Jews around the magic of Shabbat. Since its founding in 2013 over 6,000 partners have helped create a truly global community by supporting events in over 1,685 cities in 106 countries, annually connecting almost one million Jews speaking 12 languages.

COMMUNITY NEWS

The children of our Cheder swapped an online Zoom lesson over Sukkot for a lesson in the Sukkah where they learnt about the Lulav and the Etrog. They also discussed the ending and the beginning of the Torah. A few delicious

snacks afterwards in the he children ofwere ourenjoyed Cheder swapped anSukkah. online Zoom lesson over Sukkot for a lesson in the Sukkah where ey learnt about the Lulav and the Etrog. They also discussed the ending and the beginning of the Torah. The children of our Cheder swapped an online Zoom lesson over Sukkot for a lesson in the Sukkah where few delicious snacks were enjoyed afterwards in the Sukkah. they learnt about the Lulav and the Etrog. They also discussed the ending and the beginning of the Tora 20 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE A few delicious snacks were enjoyed afterwards in the Sukkah.

COMMUNITY NEWS

HASHALOM DEC 2020

Members of the DIVOTE team both in South Africa and Israel have been in contact with the families affected by acts of terrorism. We check up on how they are coping during this difficult time and help to give them chizuk. It is heart-breaking to hear that many families who have suffered so much, have contracted Covid-19. Like elsewhere in the world, the financial implications for families already struggling, are extremely harsh. We hear too of our heroes like Asahel who lost his leg in a terrorist attack which took the life of four other family members. He is helping others who are physically or generally challenged, and doing so much chesed for them. He is an inspiration and a Kiddish Hashem. BH a number of generous donors in South Africa have contributed money to help these families. Even with the exchange rate, this provides assistance enabling the families to buy food and other household items. Their gratitude is enormous and they continuously offer blessings and thank the donors from the bottom of their hearts. I am also extremely grateful to the donors. I also want to thank everyone who has continued to drop off boxes with donations for the children in Israel (we hope to send a large consignment to Israel soon as soon as ELAL resumes flights), and those that have contributed financially so that we can release the funds in Israel.

COMMUNITY NEWS

FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HERZL BY MICHELLE CAMPBELL by the Zionist Movement to help bring about the founding of a Jewish State. Since 1948, the National Institutions have worked to advance the Zionist cause in diverse areas such as aliyah, land reclamation, forestation and water security, strengthening Jewish life in the Diaspora, Zionist education, rescue of endangered Jewish populations, partnering with Jewish communities around the world, combatting anti-Semitism, fundraising and Israel advocacy. The wide representation of religious and political views often makes for heated debate in committee meetings and Congress halls. Of one thing there is no doubt though, you will struggle to find a group of people more passionate in their love for Israel and the Jewish people anywhere. Every single one has the best interest of Israel and the Jewish people at heart - they just disagree (often loudly and with a lot of hand gestures) on what those best interests are exactly, and how they should be achieved. The way in which the WZC has traditionally dealt with this wide spectrum of views and beliefs within world Jewry, has been to seek the widest possible representation, or what is called a “wall-to-wall” coalition. This is especially important when it comes to the appointment of leadership within the World Zionist Organisation (WZO) and the National Institutions. This to ensure that the WZO and the other National Institutions cater to the needs of Jews of all political and religious persuasion, both in Israel and in the Diaspora.

During the last week of October, the 38th World Zionist Congress (WZC) took place. The WZC is the chief ideological and policy-making body of the World Zionist Organization (WZO) established by Theodor Herzl in 1897. The first Zionist Congress was held in Basel, Switzerland, that same year. It was this Congress, which is generally accepted as having kick-started the process which led to the founding of the State of Israel in 1948. South Africa was there almost from the very beginning, with delegates representing South African Zionists in attendance since the second Congress in 1898. Initially convened annually, nowadays the Congress convenes every five years, and brings together over 2,000 Zionist activists from around the world. The Congress encompasses the entire political and religious spectrum of the Zionist movement. This year, for the first time, the delegates did not gather in Jerusalem as they have since the 23rd Congress back in 1951. During the year of the Corona Virus, 2020, the delegates were forced to gather in cyberspace rather than the ICC in Jerusalem – the coffee was, no doubt, of a better quality, but the equally important camaraderie and networking that usually takes place between sessions, was sorely missed. The Congress determines the leadership, and influences the policies, of the World Zionist Organization and Israel’s other National Institutions, namely the Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayement LeIsrael (KKL-JNF) and Keren Hayesod, including determining the allocation of funds. These four National Institutions, all pre-date the State of Israel, and were established

The 38th Congress turned out to be more stormy than usual, with a wide coalition agreement looking extremely unlikely when the Congress opened on the Tuesday. However, following marathon negotiation sessions, the parties to the congress finally reached an agreement they could all live with, on the Thursday night. Voting then opened at 1am South African time, Friday morning. It was a long night for the delegates. It was my honour and privilege to attend the Congress as a delegate for Arzenu South Africa, the Progressive Religious Zionist movement. Arzenu is one of the many Zionist organisations in South Africa, which make up the South African Zionist Federation. I participated as a member of the committee, which debated and tabled resolutions around Zionist Youth Education. It was wonderful for me to see how the policies of the National Institutions are formulated. Here in Durban, the Jewish community benefits in many ways from the policies and budgets of the World Zionist Organisation, the Jewish Agency and the Jewish National Fund (JNF). In the wider Durban community, initiatives such as Project Ten (under the auspices of the Jewish Agency) work in the impoverished communities at Inanda, in the fields of educational enrichment and agricultural development. In Hammarsdale, the Victor Daitz JNF Eco Education Centre is doing sterling work in community education around good ecological practices, organic agriculture and waste management. These two projects benefit greatly from the policies and budgets of the Congress. I suspect that Theodore Herzl, the father of political Zionism, would have been both surprised and proud of the achievements that blossomed from his very first Zionist council 123 years ago, but more importantly, by the modern, thriving country that is Israel today.

22 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY NEWS

HASHALOM DEC 2020

Women of Actiom

“AG PLEEZE WON’T YOU TAKE US DOWN TO DURBAN (BEACHFRONT) THERE’S SPANS OF SEA AN’ SAND AN’ SUN” With apologies to Jeremy Taylor the above request was recently fulfilled by the UJW for the Jewel House residents. After many months in lockdown this was an outing enjoyed by the them, their carers and UJW committee members. The weather was perfect and the bottles of ice

cold water provided by the Union refreshing. Thanks to Sue and Andy for the fruit, chocs and biscuits and sincere gratitude to Eden College for the loan of their bus and to Sipho for his careful driving. A fun, easy excursion which we hope we may be able to repeat.

GOODY BAGS TO SAY “GOOD YOM TOV” The UJW, together with some generous donors, prepared Goody bags containing biscuits, chocolates, books to colour or crosswords, crayons, pens and added talc which was donated by Wizo. These bags were distributed to the Beth Shalom, Jewel House, Eden Crescent residents and Masadaniks.

WISHES FROM US TO YOU FOR A

FILLED WITH LIGHT, LOVE AND LAUGHTER

COMMUNITY NEWS

BY MICHELLE * LAURIENNE * COLLEEN (CO-CHAIRS WIZO DURBAN)

This is a very special year for WIZO as we celebrate 100 years of service to Israel and our global community. Since its inception, WIZO’s global volunteer force has been performing great acts of kindness and never losing sight of their commitment to Israel. During these unprecedented times WIZO has broadened our support to include our local communities in distress during the corona crisis. WIZO sisters continue to proudly change lives together.

The Power of Giving… ‘Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change.’ WIZO Durban remains a small vibrant group with a big HEART! We look back on our past four years with glowing pride. Despite that fact that in the past few months our fundraising efforts have been considerably thwarted by the Covid-19 Pandemic. We remain positive in our outlook and hope to find creative ways to sustain and grow our precious organization.

Membership…

Our membership has sadly declined in keeping with our community statistics and the current challenging local & global circumstances. WIZO Durban still continues to strive to maintain and increase our membership base. Our Executive continues to hold monthly meetings where possible. Branch meetings incorporate updated WIZO news, Hasbarah, fundraisers and topics of interest.

Branches…

Millie Broomberg Branch & Razelle Hirshovitz Branch- Was convened by Arline Foreman. Meetings take place regularly at various different homes & Beth Shalom. Members are addressed by an array of interesting guest speakers. Chaya Aviv Branch - The group convened by “The Trio” continues to make up the work force for our fundraising efforts. Ahavah Tahorah - This new branch was initiated and is led by Tyra Nackan and is a jewel in our crown.

In loving memory of our WIZO sisters Arline & Marlene We are greatly saddened by the sudden and untimely passing of our dear WIZO sisters Arline Foreman and Marlene Keats.

FFollowing in her mother’s footsteps Arline Foreman became a member of WIZO at the age of 18. She was an active and dedicated member of the Rebecca Sieff branch and served as chairman and executive member for many years. She was deservedly a recipient of the Rebecca Sieff service award. Arline served as WIZO DURBAN CHAIRMAN and was always in the forefront of all activities. She formed many branches and at the time of her passing convened the Millie Broomberg Lapid and the Razelle Hirshovitz branches. Her loyalty and dedication were unprecedented. She visited Israel whenever she could and her love for WIZO and Israel is beyond compare.

Affiliate Organisations We are affiliated to the SAJBD KZN and attend community forums. We work closely with the KNZC and prepare falafel at the Yom Ha’atzmaut. Collaborating with and supporting sister organizations with local functions has always been important to us.

Transforming lives through the gift of mobility The simple provision of a wheelchair is something completely out of reach for most! Our Wheelchairs of Hope project is competently directed by the inspiring Paula Green. Paula joined us with a wealth of experience. We are grateful for her expertise and commitment she brings to this initiative.

Marlene Keats joined WIZO about 10 years ago. She was an enthusiastic, loyal, dedicated and hands-on member who was always ready to help where needed. She was a true Zionist and loved WIZO and ISRAEL. She is sorely missed by her husband, children and grandchildren and all who loved and adored this colourful lovely lady. Rest in Peace dear Arline & Marlene we will miss you both dearly

Our loyal supporters and friends…

Christian Ladies Under the leadership of Karen Kerr our Christian friends are generous with their time and are always enthusiastic to assist us wherever possible. They hold their own WIZO Fundraising events throughout the year.

Identifying the need to help, WIZO South Africa joined forces with an Israeli NGO Wheelchairs of Hope to bring child-size wheelchairs to South Africa that gives these children the dignity of mobility. Wheelchairs of Hope is dedicated to providing children in developing countries with lightweight, reliable and child friendly wheelchairs. These wheelchairs have become more than instruments of mobility – they have become chariots of hope, helping these children to win battles and gain access not just to education but to friends and peers as well.

24 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY NEWS In order to reach children in deep rural areas, under the leadership of Paula, WIZO Durban partnered with The Valley Trust to identify children in the Valley of 1000 Hills most urgently needing the freedom of independent mobility. This collaboration resulted in a big day for 21 disabled children on Tuesday 20th August 2019, the children received their own brightly coloured wheelchairs in a ceremony at The Valley Trust.

WIZO SA Biennial Campaign 2018... We successfully launched our 2018/2019 WIZO SA Biennial Campaign on Wednesday 28 April 2018. Guest speaker Adeno Danny Adebe inspired guests with his fascinating story of his Incredible Journey. Our patron Anna Moshal emphasized the importance of the lifeline that WIZO provides to the women and children of Israel. In celebration of this invaluable work, John Moshal magnanimously pledged 100 wheelchairs to the “Wheel Chairs of Hope Project.

Campaign 2020/21 Due to Covid-19 we were unable to have a traditional campaign launch however we are endeavoring to canvas for much needed financial support.

Some of our Fundraisers & Events… Outdoor Movie Night @ Ujc WIZO Durban is literally bursting with pride with the formation of our newest young branch Ahavah Tahorah. Led by Tyra Nackan, these young wonder women approached us to start their own fundraising group. Since their inauguration during Chanukah 2018, they have been planning their first fundraiser, an outdoor movie night which was successfully held on 9 March 2019 at the UJC. A stormy night was no problem for these tenacious young ladies! A giant inflatable screen was mounted on the deck whilst moviegoers where kept snug undercover. Copious amounts of fresh popcorn, hot chocolate, chips, sweets and cold drinks were on offer. The Greatest Showman was screened and was a big hit with one and all. Proceeds of this amazing initiative have been donated to their specially chosen beneficiary, the WIZO Chorley Day Care Centre in Israel who are in desperate need of a new floor and general repairs. Boys Nite Out 10 April 2019 WIZO women acceded to the pleading of the Durban menfolk and organised another Boys Nite Out. A fun event was held at the DJHC with 100 men attending. The entertainment included a whiskey tasting, an auction and comedy with Tracy Klass. A delicious Bunny Chow meal was was prepared by Chef Dave. Especially noteworthy was the generosity of the audience in purchasing 40 Wheelchairs of Hope on auction. WIZO Durban was incredibly proud & grateful.

Yom Yerushalayim On 3 June, in a fabulous concert to celebrate Yom Yerushalayim, Chief Cantor of the Israel Defence Forces, Shai Abramson kept the audience spell bound with song. The event was jointly hosted by Wizo Durban, the South African Jewish Board of Deputies KZN Council and the KwaZulu Natal Zionist Council. Conversation with Eden Eden Ben Shitrit is 25 years old and a graduate of Neve WIZO. On 17 September, in solidarity for WOMEN AGAINST VIOLENCE, the WIZO women together with, UJW & KNZC joined together for a night of unity and strength. In this vein Sue Jacobson shared a poignant letter written to her daughter. Flanked by Caren Smith, Eden Shitrit was our special guest speaker. She courageously told her life story and the extraordinary impact that Neve WIZO has had on he life, her brother’s life and all the many children that find a loving home at Neve WIZO. On Wednesday Eden visited and spoke at Beth Shalom and Akiva College. She ended her whirlwind Durban visit with an inspirational talk to the senior Jewish learners at Eden College. Eden is one of the many success stories of our Neve WIZO projects – and is truly a remarkable young woman. It made us exceptionally humbled and proud of the incredible wonderful work that all our WIZO sisters do throughout the year. Yom Tov Market The Yom tov Market remains an event that has always been a significant in our calendar. It is our chance to ‘give back’ to our community for their support throughout the year. It bragged beautiful Yom Tov gift presentations & confectionary, kichel, interesting stalls, a delicious tea garden, cappuccinos, and fun kids’ activities run by out amazing Ahavah Tahorah girls. It has been successfully held for the past three years at DJC & UJC. This year due to the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions we were forced to cancel the market and replace it with a Kichel Drive which yielded satisfactory monetary results.

HASHALOM DEC 2020 “Klassy Tea” Laughter is the fireworks of the soul! In the spirit of these fine words, on Wednesday 7 June 2017, WIZO staged a deliciously scrumptious and hilariously funny “Klassy Tea” with the oh-so-fabulous comedienne Tracy Klass. The sidesplitting laughter was proof that there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour! Pieter Dirk Uys On 17 November WIZO staged a fundraiser, featuring Bambi Kellerman in her one woman show ‘Never too Naked’ at the DJC. It was an honour to showcase this thought-provoking production.

Bread & Butter fundraising initiatives… The Pearl Lazarus Draw Club continues to roll over. It continues to be financially viable and yields a constant source of funds. WIZO Tzedaka Tins, Certificates & cards to mark smachot & occasions are a regular source of income throughout the year. Miracles are Seeds of Kindness (Mask) The Covid-19 Pandemic had a a devastating ripple effect leaving millions destitute, vulnerable, jobless and starving. These unprecedented events prompted the launch of our MASK (Miracles Are Seeds of Kindness) initiative. WIZO Durban, in collaboration with Angelika Anastasis Art raised funds to secure face MASKs and food hampers for severely distressed households in the Valley of 1000 Hills. These lifesaving hampers consisted of maize meal, baby food, laundry and bath soap, sugar and other canned and dried food. Several of the families in this area are very dear to WIZO as last year these children with disability where recipients of our WIZO Wheelchairs of Hope. It was a double mitzvah to once again be able to support these special children & their families. At the outset of the project we were aiming at feeding 100 families but with exceptional support and generosity of people near and far we were humbled raise funds for 840 lifesaving hampers.

Conferences Attended… ECM Johannesburg, 29 July 2019 Stephanie Budlender & Laurienne Baitz represented Durban & South Africa at the International EGM 2020 in Israel in January 2020. Ambassador Award for the Open Air School WIZO Durban has initiated an Ambassador Award for the Open-Air School. This award is presented annually to the child who creates an awareness of disability with enthusiasm. With much excitement the winner was presented with a wire tree trophy, certificate and book. Annually a team of WIZO ladies attend the Open-Air School prize giving. Fueled by friendship, love and hope the inspirational message is always was clear. If you can dream it, you can believe it! Open Air School Gala WIZO was invited to attend the Open-Air School Gala. Viv Stiller, Colleen Mervis, Mandy Nackan, Michelle Nathan and Arline Foreman where all fortunate to be part of this incredibly special morning filled with so much love, laughter and of course lots of splashing! Viv Stiller our treasured WIZO secretary was invited to be the guest of honour and awarded the children with their well-deserved prizes. Acknowledgements & thanks… The Executive together with our members have successfully managed our calendar. We thank them for their time and effort dedicated to WIZO. We also extend the very biggest thanks & gratitude to our dearest secretary, Vivienne Stiller, who manages to keep the ‘office’ running through the most trying circumstances. Without her WIZO would not be able to function– her commitment is indeed our finest asset. We would like to thank Stephanie Budlender our treasured Treasurer. Stephanie’s efficiency makes ‘cents’ of our efforts. With love for Israeli society, we hold the WIZO banner up high and stand together in solidarity, supporting and uplifting the citizens of Israel.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Talmud Torah The last P J Library books for the year will be distributed at the beginning of November to the children in Durban and two living in other cities in KZN. It’s wonderful that these two children can receive a fun Jewish education through well-illustrated stories shared with their parents in spite of not living in DBN. Talmud Torah provides these books free of charge to all Jewish children from playgroup up to grade two. Recently we received the P J Library bookshelf and bookends that have been placed inside the Jewish studies classroom at Eden. The PJ Library books that the school has received since inception, are packed onto the shelves for the children to read and enjoy while at school. Attached are photos of some of the children with their books, and below are messages sent from some of the parents. 1. Thank you so much for the lovely books that you gave to my daughter and I cannot tell you how much we have enjoyed the stories and the beautiful illustrations. We also enjoy the much needed Yiddishkite that we must never forget and importantly instil in our children. We particularly loved the book: “A hole in the boat”, written

Our new PJ Library bookshelf inside the Eden Judaica Centre

Two gorgeous brothers with thier PJ Library books

by Ari Zelichov Relevy. It is a very mindful and appropriate midrash for our times. To quote a few excerpts from the book - because they say it so well: The Rabbis say that sometimes we forget how far-reaching our decisions can be. Even small choices can affect many people around us, sometimes without realizing it. In Jewish tradition, this idea encompassed by the phrase Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh, which is Hebrew for “all of Israel is responsible for one another”. Every action we make affects others, so we are expected to look out for other’s wellbeing in large and small ways – and when we work together side by side, as the shipmates in the story, “there is nothing that we cannot do”. I hope that everyone received this book because it is so fitting for our current situation. 2. Our son has made us read his book three times since he received it and now is getting his older sister to read him the book. Thank you for the Sukkoth activity. 3. The PJ Library books are an incredible initiative which have been a highlight of every evening before bedtime since the time that we started receiving them. We have now built up a library that we can share with our younger child who loves them as well. As you know getting Jewish books for the kids in SA is difficult. So a special thank you to everyone involved as it adds to our Jewish identity which to me is the purpose of the program.

The PJ Library bookends in the Jewish studies classroom

26 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY NEWS

HASHALOM DEC 2020

Talmud Torah Message from John Moshal Hi everyone and welcome to this prize-giving for Talmud Torah. As you can see I am sitting in hospital in London with a chest infection, but I seem to be improving. You are very fortunate as of all of us to have the group of dedicated people who are providing this education for you and its education that will stand you in good stead throughout your lives and throughout the world wherever you may land up. It is not intended to be intense and deep, but it is intended to give you a good understanding of what Judaism and your place in it is all of this is about. Take it seriously because you will carry it with you wherever you go as long as you live. I spent my early years resisting this sort of education and then turned it around and realised what it was really worth, so please I am offering you the same. Now I want to thank the teachers for their dedicated work, and that includes Rabbi Vegoda, Helene (Cohen), Rabbi Weiner and everybody who has been involved and particularly Cheryl. She has put her heart and soul into this and really built it into something of substance and value. Much, much appreciated to all of you, and Helene, I wish you a refuah shleima and the same Norma, goes to you for Tubby, I hope that he will return to good health, and the in the meantime I’m doing my best over here to do the same. Love to all of you, I hope that you all have a wonderful function and go on and enjoy and I look forward to seeing you thrive in the community and the growth. I love you all. God bless you. Bye

Message from Rabbi Vegoda Shalom! Hello! It’s been such a hard year with Corona and staying at home and Zoom classes, so the first thing I want to do is say a huge yishar koach, a huge well done to each and every student who has done so well and to the parents. Please GOD next year will be easier. From my side I want to say how great a pleasure it has been learning with each and every one of you. WOW, we have learnt so much and you have asked such amazing questions and I really feel from my side, I have gained so much. I hope you feel that you have learnt also during the year important ideas and you feel that you have grown. My hope and prayers please GOD next year will be easier, and you will all have the opportunity to continue learning and growing in a beautiful way. Again I just want to say how much I have enjoyed learning with you this year, and I wish you a beautiful holiday.

Prize giving Talmud Torah and Eden

The prize-winners at the Talmud Torah prize-giving 2020, held at Durban Jewish Club, 29 November 2020 are:

TALMUD TORAH WINNERS 1. Most Committed Hebrew Student: Junior Primary Shaun Pozniak 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Most Committed Hebrew Student: Senior Primary Sam Wolman Most Committed Jewish Studies Student: Junior Primary Emma Van De Weg and Michal Dogan Most Committed Jews Studies Student: Senior Primary Gil Dogan Most Committed Jewish Student: High School Hadley Epstein The UJW Most Enthusiastic Student Jade Selikow The Most Enthusiastic Pre-School Student Luciana Baranov and Jamie Pozniak

EDEN COLLEGE WINNERS 1. 2.

Most Improved Student Hannah Norton Excellence in Prep Hebrew Gabriel Gully

3. The Mensch Cup Liora Plen 4. Commitment to Prep Jewish Studies Lev Bar Bill Walker 5. Talmud Torah Cup Joshua Groot 6. DHSA Cup Yardena Garber 7. G’milut Chassadim Award (UJW) Netanya Dogan 8. The Herman & Geraldine Davis Cup (KNZC) Galia Meltz 9. Excellence in Hebrew Yardene Garber 10. Head of Judaica Board Galia Meltz and Liora Plen 11. Howard Epstein Cup for Perseverance Brandon Taitz 12. Most Improved Attitude Gabriel Farr

COMMUNITY NEWS

Sukkot has always been a busy time at the Young Israel Centre. This year we sincerely missed having a full Sukkah every day; however, we loved getting pictures of the children who received Rosh Hashana gifts from us with their decorated Chamtzas.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

The Young Israel Centre was very excited to have people back this past month, with all COVID protocols in place. For the Shabbat Project the Young Israel Centre ran a fun Shabbat Brocha and Bingo activity. Each child received their own â&#x20AC;&#x153;Brocha in a Boxâ&#x20AC;? containing a

HASHALOM DEC 2020

doughnut, chocolate milk, biscuits and a chocolate. Rabbi Greenblum gave a wonderful drosha about Shabbat which was followed by a fun and enthusiastic game of Shabbat Bingo.

COMMUNITY NEWS

DHGC BACK IN ACTION #45 December 2020

One of our greatest privileges at the DHGC is facilitating workshops with young visitors which focus on enriching their understanding of the Holocaust as well as highlighting the dangers of prejudice, racism, homophobia, and xenophobia. Through the tool of education, we hope to build a world where human rights and dignity are respected and valued for all. We hosted Clifton College's Grade 9 boys over 5 days in November and have a number of primary and high school off-campus visits planned for the final weeks of the school calendar. We also welcomed an amazing group of young adults from the Institute for Healing of Memories, who joined us for a workshop covering the topic of identity as well as a guided tour through the exhibition.

"An essential programme that stresses the importance of learning about the Holocaust and in so doing, creating awareness around the dangers of right-wing and fascist like leaders." The forth of eight posts featuring the stories of Durban Holocaust survivors.

- Barbara Wahlberg, Head of History Department at Clifton College

As the year draws to a close and holidays begin, we invite you to come and visit us at Circle Cafe! Come and unwind and reflect in our Garden of Remembrance or book a table for your festive season get-togethers! The Cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating available with all Covid-19 preventative measures in place to ensure that your visit is comfortable and safe!

Still feeling nervous about dining-out? Click here to view our takeaway menu.

It's great to have this favourite venue back in business after several months. The cheesecake is as good as ever and the fishcakes taste even better! Light and airy, with plenty of space for distancing. - Anne Stevens 30 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY NEWS

Chanukah a Time for Miracles

Feeding the homeless for two months

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From all of us at Durban Jewish Social Services and Jewel House 32 | OUR COMMUNITY, OUR PEOPLE, OUR MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY NEWS

HASHALOM DEC 2020

As we approach the end of 2020 it is with pride that we can say that MASADA has survived and thrived with the usual positive attitude. A year that has been a difficult and stressful Covid 19 year, has tested most of us to our

limits. MASADA and our Beloved Masadaniks have risen to the challenge and as always, have excelled! Work has come in and is plentiful and our Masadaniks are working hard as always.

MASADANIKS BACK AT WORK

Our Masada Bookshop is full and brimming with wine, candles, new and exciting stock, definitely worth a visit!

Thank you to our wonderful community for your caring and ongoing support

WE DO NOT RECEIVE ANY FUNDING FROM THE UCF Should you wish to make a TAX DEDUCTABLE donation, please do so by EFT or depositing into our Bank Account: DUHC – MASADA TRUST – STANDARD BANK ACCOUNT NUMBER: 050768581 BRANCH CODE: 051001 TAX DEDUCTABLE DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT: 99 Bellevue Rd, Musgrave, Durban. Tel: 031-202-3419.

COMMUNITY NEWS

COOKING WITH JUDY AND LINDA “POTATO LATKES” WITH A DIFFERENCE FOR CHANUKAH OVEN BAKED CRISPY POTATO CAKES 6 large potatoes 1 large onion 2 eggs 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons matzo meal 1 teaspoon salt Pepper Chicken fat or oil Preheat oven to 190degC - Peel and coarsely grate the potatoes. Grate the onion then combine with the potatoes, oil, matzo meal, salt and pepper. Grease a 12- cup muffin tray and divide mixture equally between the cups. Place about a half teaspoon of either chicken fat or oil on each one. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from tin to serve. These can be made a few hours ahead of time and warmed up at 200degC for 5 minutes.

AIR-FRYER POTATO LATKES 3-4 large potatoes, peeled 2 eggs 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons oil

1 onion, grated 2 tablespoons matzo meal or breadcrumbs Freshly ground black pepper

Coarsely grate the potatoes - Combine the potatoes and onions. Drop the mixture onto a kitchen towel and squeeze the liquid out over a bowl. Twist and squeeze as hard as you can until almost all of the liquid has been removed. Put the potato and onion mixture into a separate bowl. Whisk together the egg, matzo meal, salt, pepper. Add egg mixture to the potato and onion shreds and combine until evenly distributed. Generously grease the bottom of your air fryer with oil. Spoon cup portion of the latke mixture onto the greased basket. Sprinkle them with more salt - Brush the top of each latke with more oil Cook in the air fryer at 200degC for 8 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Re-grease the air fryer and cook in batches until all of the latke batter is cooked.

SWEET POTATO ROSTI 500g sweet potatoes, peeled 1 large Granny Smith apple 2 eggs cup chopped spring onion Salt and pepper

500g plain potatoes 1 large onion 2 tablespoons flour 1 tablespoon grainy mustard Oil for frying

Coarsely grate the sweet and plain potatoes - should make about 3 1/2 - 4 cups. Grate the apple and onion. Mix the potatoes, apple, onion, eggs, flour, spring onion, mustard, salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large frying pan and fry one heaped tablespoon of the mixture for each rosti. Drain on paper towels.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

HASHALOM DEC 2020

WE WISH OUR JEWISH CUSTOMERS A

HAPPY CHANUKAH FILLED WITH LIGHT

COMMUNITY NEWS

SOCIAL & PERSONAL BIRTHS Mazeltov to: Ron Spector on the birth of a great grandson.

BAR/BATMITZVAH Mazeltov to: Des and Lorian Norton on the occasion of Hannah’s Bat Mitzvah.

BIRTHDAYS Mazeltov to: Gary Plen on his 50th birthday. Betty Levene on her 80th birthday. Max Strange on his 80th birthday. Dave Gaffen on his 80th birthday.

ANNIVERSARIES Maseltov to: Sidney and Gaynor Lazarus on their 35th wedding anniversary.

DEATHS Condolences to: Leah Chananie on the passing of her husband Derrick. Michael, Jonathan, David,and Tamara on the passing of their father. Gerselle, Selma and Mervyn on the passing of their brother. Adele, Gregory and Selwyn Shandel on the passing of their mother Maizey.

JOB SEEKER DIRECTORY Bruce Jacobsohn Managerial or other 0836752134 LET US ADD YOU TO HASHALOM’S JOB SEEKER DIRECTORY, ITS FREE • • •

Send us your name Skill Set Contact Details email: hashalom@djc.co.za

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Hashalom December 2020

Articles inside

Cooking with Judy and Linda

Masada

Wizo

Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre

Young Israel Centre

Union of Jewish Women

KZNC

Divote

Beit David

Durban United Hebrew Congregation

Gardening

Bubkes

Mark Immerman

Eden

Health

Current Affairs

In Conversation