Hashalom July 2019 by Hashalom

July 2019 June 2019

Our Community . Our People Our Community . Our People

. Our Magazine . Our Magazine

Volume 95. No 10 Volume 95. No 9

March 2014 March 2014

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HASHALOM 1 HASHALOM 1

Through Your Eyes Special Feature Current Affairs

03 04

06 To 08

Above Board Chasing the Dream

09 10

Entertainment

Past Tense

Bubkes Community News

Young Israel Centre

SAJBD 14

UJC

DUHC

Beit David

Beth Shalom

Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre

Masada

Divote

UJW

Akiva College

Wotsup WIZO

Limmud

Eden School

KZNC

Talmud Torah

Cycalive Poster

Cooking with Judy and Linda

Social and Personal

Diary of Events

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.

Hashalom Editorial Board: Editor: Hayley Lieberthal Sub Editor: Colin Plen, Cookie Isaacs 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 AUGUST EDTION: 7 July 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 Print 24 Visit our website: www.hashalom.co.za

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EDITORIAL

Editorial

July 2019

Happy Anniversary to me Hayley Lieberthal Six years ago the month of July to me was just another ordinary month on the calendar with some birthday dates to remember. I hadn’t the faintest idea that a year later, July would become a month that would hold significant meaning. I moved from Johannesburg to Durban in July 2014 to be with my now husband. Sure, I was apprehensive at first, who wouldn’t be? I had gotten my proverbial ducks in a row and received a work transfer, we had found a gorgeous sea facing flat and all I had to do was pack my bags and get in the car. In theory, it was perfect, yet deep down I wondered how I would adjust to new colleagues and how I would navigate around a city where I didn’t know the road names, let alone where the closest grocery shop was. Yet I knew that my future lay in Durban and I met every challenge head on. It wasn’t until I made friends within our community that I felt a true sense of belonging to our East coast. I was bowled over at how a smaller community stood firmer and supported each other. I was blown away that there wasn’t any gossip about this one and that one. Everyone I met in our beloved community was just as special as the next. I was truly home! However, fate - for a lack of a better word, had something more in store for me. I joined the Hashalom team in March 2018 and in July I was given a shot to be interim editor of this amazing magazine. A year has passed and I cannot help feel blessed to be part of our community. To be the editor of a magazine that represents who we are, where we all come from and how much we stand together. I want to thank you all for carrying on being you, for opening your arms out to new members and making us all feel as if we have always been a part of your lives. I would also like to hear from other members who have moved to Durban, tell me more about your story, how you came to be here and why Durban is close to your heart. Email me at editor@djc.co.za

THROUGH YOUR EYES

READERS SHARE THEIR VIEWS BY LAUREN SHAPIRO

Ballito-nik Paula Green returns to Israel after 27 years and is struck by the differences

Paula (left) with cousins Meira Bat El and Ophra Seltzer at Rosh Hanikrah PIC Supplied

HASHALOM IS PROUD TO BRING YOU A NEW SECTION “THROUGH YOUR EYES” IN WHICH READERS SHARE THEIR VIEWS ON TOPICS CLOSE TO THEIR HEARTS. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE YOUR “THROUGH YOUR EYES”, CONTACT US AT HASHALOM@DJC.CO.ZA

FAMILY REUNION

sociologist friend to the kibbutz newspaper cartoonist what the solution is. No-one had an answer. Yet Israelis must live with this paradox every day. “In a train station concourse in Tel Aviv there was a piano,” Paula recalls. “And sitting at the piano was a handsome young soldier, lost in enchanting music, with his assault rifle on his knee. For me, that encapsulates the contradiction – both the beauty and the challenge of Israel.”

Israel is at the heart of the Jewish people, so it’s unsurprising that many of us have relations there, whether we know it or not. “There was a great sense of family; of getting to know each other,” Paula says of the trip. “What an incredibly storied place,” she describes. “People haven’t just landed up there by chance. Everyone in Israel has their own story about how and why they got there.” Paula also caught up with a friend on a Kibbutz, and sought out the family of a dear friend of her late husband Basil. “This was a journey of making connections,” she affirms.

For all its complexities, Paula declares: “I’m proud to be part of this incredible country; this incredible line that goes right back to the bible.”

When her Aunt from Manchester phoned to say she would be spending Pesach with her daughter in Netanya, semi-retired literary specialist Paula Green decided to join them. Then she got in touch with long-lost cousins in Tel Aviv and Carmiel. Then she made contact with another cousin on the other side of her family whom she’d never even met.

27 YEARS LATER

Paula was last in Israel in 1992, and it’s changed a lot, she says. “The high-rise buildings are mind-blowing. They’re just everywhere! But it isn’t South Africa. In a small country, you have to build upwards.” The technological developments in daily Israeli life made an impression. “I was a bit intimidated by the bus cards and the train app,” she confesses, “but there was always someone friendly willing to help and I found my way around.” And, boy, did she find her way around – from Rosh Hanikra to Eilat – in what she calls “a wonderful, rich, textured experience”.

COMPLEXITIES

“I’m not a political person, but Israel is a very complex issue,” admits Paula. Her ambivalence is evident in her language: “Israel is something to be immensely proud of. I so want to be proud of it. I am proud of it. But at the same time there is this other story of Arabs who are suffering… I struggle with the complexity of it all.” During her trip Paula asked everyone from taxi drivers to a

What are your thoughts on Israel? Do you feel strongly about an issue you’d like to see featured in Hashalom? Write and tell us at hashalom@djc.co.za

SPECIAL FEATURE

PASSPORT TO FREEDOM BY LAUREN SHAPIRO

Bobba from Balbirishok? Zaida from Zeimys? Applying for an EU passport is easy from the east coast.

here are many reasons to apply for a Lithuanian passport. For some it is a window to the world through visa-free travel; for others, an opportunity to study and work in the European Union (EU). Yet others wish to take advantage of business opportunities, but for many it is about reconnecting with their roots.

Family ties “I always kept my mom’s documents; I didn’t want to feel like I was discarding her,” confides Debbie Werner. Her mother Judy Melman (nee Jubileras) OBM came to South Africa from Vilnius at age three in 1926. Debbie and her brother Franky Melman looked into citizenship reinstatement in 2016. They met with Dainius Ambrazaitis from In Jure law firm based in Vilnius, who has processed over 300 reinstatements from South Africa, including several from Durban. He told them: “you have a 99.9% chance.” The following year, Debbie recalls, they received a “wonderful yontif gift” – an email congratulating them on a successful application.

acquire property. “Being a part of the EU as well as the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Lithuania grants both you and your children excellent opportunities,” observes Dainius.

For the Kinderlach Sam’s father was born in 1916 in Dvinsk (now Daugavpils) in Latvia. “He saw what was happening with anti-Semitism and left for South Africa at 18 years old,” Sam recounts. His mother – Sam’s Bobba – could not travel at the time and later died in Latvia, but she was originally Lithuanian, and had a Lithuanian passport. On the strength of this document, Sam applied for reinstatement of Lithuanian citizenship in November 1917. The process was successful, and he is expecting his citizenship papers and passport by October. “It’s so much easier not having to apply for visas,” says Sam, who travels regularly. “I’m ecstatic,” Sam declares. “Everyone who can should apply.”

“My parents left us a legacy,” Debbie smiles. “We now have broader prospects. That was their inheritance to us.” Debbie’s children Jenna and Doron – both completing post-graduate studies – will also be able to travel widely without visas and work without permits. “It’s a marvellous opportunity,” Debbie affirms. “We’re very grateful.”

Sam’s son works for an international company, so the business advantages will benefit him too. “Once a person becomes a Lithuanian citizen, all his/her future children – born to him/her as a citizen – will automatically be citizens of Lithuania,” assures Nida Degutienė, CEO of Next Steps, a consultancy that has successfully processed over 200 citizenship reinstatements from South Africa.

Here or There

Spouses, unfortunately, are not eligible. “Citizenship is granted only to descendants of former Lithuanian citizens,” Nida explains.

There is no need to travel to Lithuania. Franky was elated to collect his Lithuanian papers at the embassy in Pretoria, while Debbie had hers and her children’s couriered to Durban. “It was a pain-free operation, and the whole process took under a year,” praises Franky. If you do plan to travel, a Lithuanian passport is ranked as the world’s seventh most powerful, with visa-free access to 161 countries including the EU, USA, UK and Australia. Lithuanians can live, work and study freely in the EU, open bank accounts and

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July 2019

Durbanite or Dūkštasian? “The Republic of Lithuania permits dual citizenship in exceptional cases,” reveals Dainius. “An ancestral Lithuanian citizenship is one of those exceptional cases, therefore the reinstatement of one’s Lithuanian ancestral citizenship is allowed without forfeiting existing citizenships. South Africa’s regulations allow dual citizenship too.”

SPECIAL FEATURE What do you need?

That’s genius!

“Many people think that if they don’t have birth certificates or other documents of their Lithuanian ancestors, they don’t stand a chance getting their citizenship reinstated,” Nida says. “However, in 90% of cases we manage to find the documents in Lithuanian archives. These archives are in excellent shape, with more than three million documents stored, many digitalised. I spend a lot of time in the archives researching the database and have a welltrained eye!”

As Darren Smith’s maternal Zaida hailed from Lithuania, the family is interested in pursuing reinstatement of Lithuanian citizenship. To coordinate the extended family across the country, they set up a WhatsApp group. “This way no-one is ever left out of the process,” says Smith. The family post documents, forms and useful links on the group. “We can discuss things in real time and we have everything on record in one place,” Smith explains.

Costs depend on factors such as available ancestral information, supporting documents, and number of family members that are looking into the application. On average, the process costs around EUR1500-2100 per family (descendants of the same ancestor). The good news is that with many service providers, you don’t pay unless you are successful. “We work on an all-inclusive success fee basis, so you pay only after your application is approved,” states Dainius. “The fee is exactly as defined originally, regardless of unexpected difficulties requiring additional time and effort.” “We think this is a fair business approach,” agrees Nida. “We prefer to invest our time and resources in research and to make sure we will deliver the result, and only then we enter into business relationship with a person who is interested in applying.”

Find out more IN JURE Dainius Ambrazaitis +370 600 68454 (WhatsApp) dainius.ambrazaitis@injure.lt NEXT STEP Nida Degutiene +370 612 86626 (WhatsApp) nida@nextsteps.lt Advocate Avi Horesh 064 745 5273 (SA) adv.avi.n.horesh@gmail.com

Dating tips A successful candidate is a child, grandchild or greatgrandchild of a person who was a citizen of Lithuania between 1918 and 1940. Pre-1918 The state of Lithuania was established in 1918. Ancestors who left before 1918 therefore departed as citizens of Russia, not Lithuania, and may not qualify for Lithuanian citizenship. 15 June 1940 As a result of a recent court case, candidates whose Lithuanian ancestors became South African citizens before 15 June 1940 (when Lithuania allowed dual citizenship) may have forfeited their Lithuanian citizenship. This information can be checked in the Lithuanian archives.

Attention, Sephardim! C o ntr ar y to po pul ar bel i ef , m o st Sout h Af r i can Jews o f S ephar di c desce nt are al so el i g i bl e f o r Eur o pean ci ti zenship, says speci al i st advo cate Avi Horesh. “ Even Jews exi l ed 500 year s ago are m o stl y l i k el y el i g i bl e f o r ci ti z enship r ei nstatem ent in P o r tug al , G reece, Tur k ey o r o ther pl aces i n N o r th A frica and the M i ddl e East” . H o r esh has had a 100% success r ate wi th subm i ssi ons for P o r tug uese ci ti zenshi p.

July 2019

HASHALOM 5

CURRENT AFFAIRS

BY JACQUELINE HERBST

y way of a remarkable list of game-changing medical advances in the fields of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, genetic disorders and autism as well as disease diagnosis and first aid care, Israel is a powerhouse in medical innovation and its contributions to medical science have over the years transformed the global makeup of healthcare in hospitals, doctors ‘rooms, homes and on the battlefield. With the practice of medicine being considered a religious ideal in Judaism (Ecclesiasticus 38:1) and the Jewish people’s ability to come up with original thoughts and bringing them to fruition (what Honorary Life President of the SAJBD KZN Council, John Moshal calls “Jewish Genius”), they were able to bridge 500 years of exclusion from universities and medical schools in the Middle Ages through the Talmud. Today Israel produces some of the best doctors and medical researchers in the world and Israeli healthcare companies reach the same stage as their American counterparts with a fraction of the capital investment. A ground breaking clinical trial at the Sheba Medical Centre in Tel Aviv - one of about 160 ongoing clinical trials at any given time – is giving a Ballito man recently diagnosed with Recurrent Metastatic Melanoma Cancer a fighting chance. Ex-soldier, Nico Viljoen’s (46) cancer was most likely caused by spending excessive time in the merciless Iraq sun years ago when he served there. About a year ago Nico had a small malignant mole removed from his arm but as is commonly the case with melanoma, the cancer returned. Notoriously difficult to treat, melanoma can come back for up to ten years after it has first been removed and when it does is called a recurrent and could easily spread to the rest of the body, especially the lymph nodes. The specialised treatment doctors recommend for Nico’s deadly

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type of cancer is available at Sheba Medical Centre (rated by Newsweek as one of the top 10 hospitals in the world) and has seen very positive results in patients with similar symptoms. However, this treatment is not available in South Africa and comes with a hefty price tag of US$20 000 (around R300 000) per treatment. As Nico will need four treatments and raising that kind of money with the weak ZAR exchange rate will take a very long time – a luxury he simply doesn’t have - he has been enrolled into a clinical trial at Sheba Medical Centre where he will be administered a combination of Pembrolizumab and Lenvatinib. Some of the world’s most advanced cancer research is conducted in Israel and Israeli doctors and researchers are some of the best trained in the world. Partnered with the MD Anderson Cancer Centre in the United States, Sheba Medical Centre offers cuttingedge cancer treatment in Israel. Because medical treatment in Israel is more affordable and the Israeli government has fewer road blocks to drug approval than the United States, safe and effective medication is more quickly available in Israel, making it a sought after medical tourism destination. This all sounds very impressive but how does a cancer patient from South Africa cut through the red tape and secure a bed in an Israeli hospital? Transcending the overwhelming limitations of bureaucracy and a foreign language in a foreign country was made a lot easier for Nico by Aliyah Angels Health Care Management, and Israeli company that have made it their mission to help people in need of expert medical treatment in Israel, to access their most precious lifeline. Nico’s fiancé, Tracy Boyle says the company showed great commitment ensuring they felt supported by a team of dedicated medical case managers when they arrived in Israel for medical treatment and promises to continue doing so throughout their and

CURRENT AFFAIRS others’ medical journey, from diagnosis to treatment and recovery. Aliyah Angels Health Care Management claims to have a vested interest in international social and economic development and all their agents are registered with the Ministry of Health in Israel. Their services include giving patients access to a personalized medical assessment, re-evaluation of their condition, referral for additional diagnostic testing (where needed), ongoing multi-disciplinary consultations, full care coordination, ongoing guidance and emotional support provided by the Aliyah Angels team of medical experts. Although the medication in the clinical trial is free, Tracy says they still need to raise funds to pay for the flights to Israel every three weeks, accommodation, hospital stays, scans, blood tests and doctors’ visits which is why she launched a Back-a-Buddy campaign which raised an astonishing R465 209 in just one month! Tracy wrote on Facebook: “…the expenses (especially trying to raise these funds with the South African Rand) it’s way more than we had ever anticipated. This cannot be achieved without your support, donations and prayer. Why are these donations important? Because Nico deserves to live!”

Nico, a father of four, has sacrificed most of his own life and safety for the sake of others and has worked all over the world including Iraq, Afghanistan, Northern Ireland and Durban where he was part of the SAPS Riot Unit No. 9 and Durban Reaction Unit. Having read Tracy’s Facebook posts, two Jewish families opened their homes to Nico and Tracy to stay with them in Israel during their first and the upcoming one and during their first visit last month, Nico and Tracy observed Shabbat with their Jewish hosts. The entire experience had such a profound impact on Tracy’s life that she decided to offer her services as the South African representative for Aliyah Angels. “Due to our personal experience I feel a need to assist other South African people to reach Israel; I am able to do this being a representative of Aliyah Angels,” says Tracy. She invites anyone in need of assistance mediating medical care in Israel to email her at tracy_boyle@hotmail.com and visit the agency’s website www.aliyahangels.com for more information. Follow and share Nico’s inspirational journey on facebook: Nico Viljoen Cancer Fund.

July 2019

HASHALOM 7

ABOVE BOARD

Above Board

Mary Kluk, National Chairman

A column of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies BY MARY KLUK

Dawn of a new era However one interprets the results, the recent national and provincial elections undoubtedly ushered in a new era in the history of our young democracy, one that we all hope will see the country get back on course. Now that the excitement has died down, the nitty-gritty hard work has begun. Just as our own community involved itself in various aspects of the election process, so should we now look to work with the new leadership, (as well as the opposition parties, who have a vital role to play in holding the elected leadership accountable) in order to identify ways in which we can continue to contribute. Indeed, this duty is incumbent on all citizens, regardless of where they might stand on the political spectrum. Election Day saw the culmination of the SAJBD’s #MakeUsCount election education and awareness campaign, with 230 volunteers making up the Board’s interfaith, multi-national observer team assisting the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) by observing the voting to ensure that everything is above board, supervising the delivery of ballot boxes and opening of the polls, helping to resolve problems at polling stations and ensuring that counting begins on time. Prior to this, we were able to reach an alternative arrangement with the IEC whereby Jewish expatriates living abroad were able to cast their special votes after Shabbat on 27 April. It was a further indication of how the right of every citizen to vote is respected and protected. We congratulate Cyril Ramaphosa on his inauguration as South Africa’s sixth President, which marked what we all hope will be positive new era for our country. Only the verdict of posterity will show in the end whether or not South Africa has turned a corner; for now, it is incumbent on us all to do what we can to help make that happen.

New Survey on SA Jewish community After a lengthy process of testing and piloting, the Kaplan Centre for Jewish Studies and Research at UCT has now launched its Jewish Community Survey of South Africa (JCSSA). The questionnaire will focus on a wide array of areas, including attitudes towards South Africa and its future prospects, Israel and Zionism, involvement in Jewish communal life, antisemitism, emigration, religious affiliations and degrees of observance and political orientation. As on previous occasions, it is being conducted in close consultation with the SAJBD and other major communal bodies like the Chevra Kadisha, the rabbinical leadership and the SAZF. It is hoped to arrive at as representative an overview as possible of Jewish viewpoints on critical issues both regarding specifically Jewish-related concerns and on matters relating to the country as a whole. The aim therefore is to get as large and diverse a proportion of our community to buy into the project, and accordingly, I strongly encourage all readers to follow the www.jcssa2019.co.za link and participate in the survey (as well as encourage others to do so).

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COMMUNITY NEWS

CHASING THE DREAM

BY LAUREN SHAPIRO

Simone Pozniak (37) tells Hashalom about her first Comrades Name: Simone Pozniak Nicknames: Sim, Snooze Family: Husband Marc and sons Shaun (7) and Jamie (5) Day job: BD Manager How did you get involved in running? My family moved to the US and in Ninth Grade I took up track as conditioning for basketball. How do you juggle training with work, raising two kids? I wake up at 03h30 and run/gym before the family gets up. I work from home, which helps. I have a really supportive husband and kids so I don’t let my training cut into their time. I try to avoid running after midday. What is your training schedule? I run five days a week and do weight training about three times a week. Why do you run? It gives me headspace. Sometimes it’s hard to get up and get on the road, but I always feel better afterwards. Funniest running moment? Towards the end of the Bergville-Ladysmith Ultra, my family pulled up in the car to cheer me on. I slowed down to chat to them and my seven-year-old screamed at me: “Mom, don’t stop! People are beating you!”

If you had a secret superpower, what would it be? To not feel pain. Favourite food: Sushi. Favourite song to run to: “Beautiful Day” by U2. Favourite chag: Pesach. It really speaks to me and builds my connection to Judaism. How would your family friends describe you? Stubborn, driven, fun and loyal. How would you describe yourself? Ambitious, tenacious, sensitive and adventurous. Where would you most likely be found on a Sunday morning? Running on the Umhlanga promenade or at a soccer match with my kids. Why Comrades? It’s the ultimate race. It’s one of those things that every person who loves to run aspires to do. I’m not the same person I was at the starting line. It’s incredible to see what we are capable of if we just don’t give up. Simone completed Comrades in 10:45:16.

July 2019

HASHALOM 9

ENTERTAINMENT

7 ISRAELI SHOWS TO BINGE WATCH NOW THAT YOU’RE DONE WITH ‘SHTISEL’ BY LIOR ZALTZMAN – EXTRACTS FROM TIMESOFISRAEL

‘HaShoter HaTov’ (Netflix) This delightful comedy’s title is Hebrew for “The Good Cop.” It’s been kept in Hebrew because Netflix bought an adaptation for it, “The Good Cop,” starring Josh Groban and Tony Danza (!), which somehow was not as good as you would expect it to be. But the Hebrew counterpart is one of my favorite shows in a long, long time. There’s just something so satisfying about a really good, juicy comedy with wonderful acting and poignant dramatic moments. It stars comedian Yuval Semo as a rough-around-the-edges cop who comes from a family of petty criminals. This show is not the most politically correct, but the humanity with which it treats its characters is endearing.

Kveller via JTA — I love “Shtisel,” you love “Shtisel,” everybody loves “Shtisel”! The Israeli show, about a haredi Orthodox family of the same last name, is taking American audiences by storm. Streaming on Netflix, this show has been covered by The New York Times and even has a Facebook fan group with more than 6,000 fans. I totally get the hype — “Shtisel” is truly an impeccable show. Its only flaw? It is only two seasons and unlikely to have a third season. If you’ve already plowed through the series, what’s a mom with insomnia (say, um, for example) supposed to binge watch now? Well, dear reader, do not fret. From Netflix to Amazon, it seems the world is onto the fact that Israel makes some truly incredible TV. ‘False Flag’ (Hulu) “False Flag” is terrific, and a total nailbiter. In its first season, five Israelis wake up one morning to find that they are implicated in the assassination of an Iranian politician. They’re teachers, new immigrants, and a bride on her wedding day — not really folks you’d expect to be involved in a complicated Mossad mission. The news wreaks havoc on their lives and puts them under scrutiny from the media and the police. But are they as innocent as they profess to be? (And yes, there is an American adaptation in the works.) ‘When Heroes Fly’ (Netflix) This drama features some familiar (and handsome!) faces for lovers of Israeli dramas. First off, there’s Michael Aloni who plays Akiva (Kiveh) in “Shtishel,” and Tomer Kapon, who audiences know as Boaz in “Fauda.” They each star as veterans of the Second Lebanon War, dealing with its trauma in different ways. Along with two other former teammates from the army, they go to search for Yaeli, who is the sister of one of the soldiers and the exgirlfriend of Kapon’s character. Yaeli was believed to have been killed in a car accident in Colombia but was recently spotted by a photographer there. Despite their socio-economic and religious differences, the four band together to find out what happened to her. Based on an incredible book by Amir Gutfreund, the show has been renewed for a second season. And, you guessed it, there’s an American adaptation in the works. Don’t miss it.

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‘Hostages’ (Netflix) I swear I watched the entire first season of this show in one evening. Ayelet Zurer, who you might know as Elisheva from “Shtishel,” stars as a surgeon about to get the gig of a lifetime: She’s going to operate on the Israeli prime minister! But alas, her family gets taken hostage, and in order to secure their release, she must do one thing: ensure the prime minister does not survive the surgery. How’s that for drama? Will she do the right thing? Will she rescue her family? Will there be some steamy illicit romance? (The answer to that last question? Yes.) ‘Prisoners of War’ (Hulu) If you liked “Homeland,” I think it’s safe to say you’ll enjoy the two seasons of this very different but just as suspenseful show — in fact, “Homeland” is based on “Prisoners of War.” In this show, two captured soldiers are released from Lebanon, to the delight of their family and the country, which embraces them and tries to help them recover from the trauma of 17 years in captivity. But when their stories don’t really match, things get complicated — and make for some really outstanding television. ‘Mossad 101’ (Netflix) This show’s first season is melodramatic and hilarious in the best of ways. Focusing on a group of people training to become Mossad agents, this show features comedian Hana Laszlo — who you may know as Menukha Kenigsberg in “Shtishel” — as an aspiring agent at the prestigious and secretive intelligence agency. Its second and last season takes itself perhaps too seriously but is still highly worth the watch. ‘Fauda’ (Netflix) Seriously — if you haven’t watched “Fauda” yet, remedy this ASAP. This series has everything going for it. With both Palestinian and Jewish fans, the drama, which has two seasons so far, was created by and stars Lior Raz, and is loosely based on his army experiences in the Duvdevan Unit, known for its covert operations. It’s about secret agents, targeted killings, suicide bombings and so much more, but it explores these topics with depth and sensitivity.

PAST TENSE

This column’s avid readers may, I’m afraid, be a little disappointed, because it contains no fifty- or seventy-five year old news. The reason, elementary, is that I am about 11,000 miles away from my usual sources. That piece of news will, no doubt, provide an incontrovertible clue to any budding Holmes or Poirot as to the identity of Pundit. So here are the facts. Many years ago I happened to read some very old issues of HASHOLOM and was surprised at the quality of their contents. Being a loyal member of the DJC I informed the then editor of HASHALOM, Anthony Arkin, that I thought there was a considerable amount of interesting, albeit old, information in these

BY PUNDIT

old magazines which deserved resuscitation for a new generation. “Good idea” said Anthony, and added, unexpectedly, “You do it.” So, as a very loyal member of the DJC, I agreed but insisted on anonymity, because I knew that my parents’ names might well have been mentioned from time to time. I did not want to be accused of nepotism in reverse for mentioning them. It was Anthony’s idea to name the author by the extremely immodest title of Pundit. I had absolutely nothing to do with it. By the way, here’s a bit of seventy-five year old news. There is no reference in the May 1942 issue of HASHOLOM to my Bar Mitzvah, but I bear no grudge.

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July 2019

HASHALOM 11

BUBKES

ALL MANNA OF COMPLAINTS Lauren Shapiro This evening as I was berating my children for their table manners, my mind began to wonder, as it does… table manners… food… manna… table mannas?... did the Jews in the wilderness also eat spaghetti with their fingers?... were they as fussy as my kids? Is it just mine or are all 21st century kids like this? Then I started thinking about what the response would be like if Hashem decided to go into competition with Uber-eats and deliver manna in the 21st century. This is more or less how it went in my mind: “Does it contain allergens?” “Yes, could there be traces of nuts? I can’t eat nuts. I’m highly allergic. Swell up like a kneidle. I almost died last Tuesday. It’s a miracle I’m even here.” “Has this been made in a facility that uses celery?” (“Celery? Seriously?” “Apparently it’s a thing.”) “Is it gluten-free?” “Is it lactose-free?” “I’m lactose-sensitive – can I eat it?” (“You should talk to your doctor.” “Oy, to get an appointment… and the charges… it’s daylight robbery.”) “Is it GMO-free?” (“What’s a GMO?” “For crying in a bucket of schmaltz, what rock have you been living under? Google it!”) “I read on Google that it’s not safe.” “Has it been tested for pesticides?” “And heavy metals?” “What if it causes cancer? Has it been tested by an independently verified company?” “Do you have public liability insurance?” “If I get cancer, I’m going straight to Carte Blanche!” “You know there’s no label on this? That must contravene some packaging legislation.” (“I know a great lawyer…”) “So how can we know there’re no additives, colourants, preservatives–” “What about that MGS?” (“What’s MGS?” “He means MSG” “Oh!”) Those on special diets would, no doubt, also have queries:

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“Is it macrobiotic?” “Alkaline?” “Paleo?” “What about ketogenic?” (“Isn’t that a medical thing?” “Yes, but now everyone’s doing it.”) “Is it full-fat, 2%, or fat-free?” “How many Weigh Less points does it count for?” “I’m a raw foodist.” “I’m a fruitarian!” “Can I eat it if I’m juice-fasting?” “My son has ADHD. Can he eat this?” “My mother has acid reflux. Can she eat this?” (“Peh! Tell your mother she should try a hiatal hernia then talk to me.”) “I have IBS.” “I have leaky gut.” “I have BOTH!” “I can’t have sodium. Does it have sodium?” “Has a nutritional analysis been done? My dietitian says I shouldn’t eat anything without checking the label first. I have high blood pressure. It’s hereditary – both my Bobba and my mother had it. And three aunties on my father’s side.” “I’m banting.” (“I heard banting was unhealthy. That Atkins died of a heart attack, alavasholom.” “No, this is different.” “How?” “I don’t know. I’ll ask my daughter. She’s a doctor.” “A doctor? Such naches you must get!”) Then the environmentalists will climb on the bandwagon: “Is it certified organic?” “Is it sustainably produced?” “Is it vegan?” (“What’s vegan? Is that when you only eat fish?” “No, I heard it means no animals at all.” “So just milchik, then?” “No milk – it comes from animals.” “Oh, so, like, only parev?” “Worse – no eggs” “Oy, gevalt.”) “Is leftover manna donated to a food bank? I don’t want to support an industry that promotes waste.” “What about the carbon footprint? Is it

locally produced?” “And are the producers BBBEE certified?” “Are you registered with any official body?” (“What, like the Manna Organisational Allied Network (MOAN)?”) And, of course, the feminists will have their say: “Why is it called manna? Why not womanna? Or at least personna?” “Yes, we demand a commission of enquiry!” No doubt the opportunists will put in their twocents’ worth: “Do I get Vitality points on this?” “Can I swipe my MySchool/MyVillage card?” “Can I get a replacement if I’m not satisfied?” “Who’s doing your marketing?” “Have you aligned with a celebrity chef? Jamie and Gordon are so out. I have the next Big Thing lined up…” “I can help you build your brand! I have some great connections.” Even the ultra-Orthodox may have their qualms: “Under what hashgacha has it been produced?” “Is it cholov-yisroel?” “Is it Mehadrin-Commission?” “Does it need to be checked for bugs?” “If I eat a manna-burger, how many hours must I wait before consuming a mannamilkshake?” “If it tastes like anything you want, can I imagine it’s a rump steak?” (“I’ve always wondered what bacon tastes like.” “Delicious, but don’t tell my mother!”) Eventually I was wrenched back to reality when one of the kids knocked over the ketchup. Yup, I thought as I wiped All Gold from the table and helped the six-year-old change her splattered T-shirt, perhaps there’s a reason that Hashem stopped providing manna for the Jews in the desert... desert… dessert… I wonder how long it would take Uber-eats to deliver?… but what about my diet?... Ag, it can wait… until next time!

“did the Jews in the wilderness also eat spaghetti with their fingers?”

COMMUNITY NEWS

May was an exciting and busy month at the Young Israel Centre. We hosted a Lag BaOmer themed breakfast Shmooz the Sunday before Lag BaOmer. Waffles were on the menu with our new double waffle maker, which was put to good use with the incredible turnout on the day. The children attending had the opportunity to make their own S’mores and bake them on the braai, and well as take part in bow and arrow competitions. Chocolates were awarded to the winners of the competitions. Bnei Akiva Madrichim from Jhb were on hand to assist in all of the activities. Lag BaOmer followed a few days later. The Young Israel Centre hosted a lovely evening with soup and hot dogs around the bon fire. Stan Lipshitz provided the musical entertainment which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Rabbi Zekry addressed everyone before joining Stan on the microphone for a few songs. Marshmallows were roasted on the bon fire at the end of the evening.

Kids roasting marshmallows

Liora Plen, Ariela Mizrachi and Netanya Dogan around the bon fire

Michal Dogan and Sivana Stout

Michal Dogan enjoying her S’more

Norman Ganz, Jason and Elon Stout, Anita Sheward, Gil, Yaniv and Robyn Dogan around the bon fire

Ora Gerber and Lianne Lipshitz

Rabbi Zekry

Rachel Hermelin making her S’more

Shay Stout and Ethan Plen roasting marshmallows

Shay, Jason and Elon Stout

Sidney Lazarus and Yaniv Dogan

Sivana Stout making S’mores with one of the Jhb madrichot

Sivana Stout with her roasted marshmallow

Stan Lipshitz, Mike Gittelson and Orli Essers

Isobella Baitz enjoying her S’more

The Young Israel Centre hosted Josh Poyurs for a Shabbat at the DUHC. We took the opportunity to host a delicious Shabbat lunch for some of the young families in the community. It is always a joy to watch the children all play together while the parents are able to have some time with other Jewish parents.

Enjoying her S’more

Bow and arrow competition

Aviva Shapiro with her roasted marshmallow

Ethan and Liora Plen enjoying the Lag B’Omer soup

July 2019

HASHALOM 13

COMMUNITY NEWS

BY JACQUELINE HERBST

LIBERATION STALWARTS AND THE COUNTRY EXPRESS FAITH IN THE CONSTITUTION

o celebrate Pesach and the Liberation of the Jewish People from slavery in Egypt, the SAJBD could not have chosen two more appropriate speakers in the year that South Africa celebrates 25 years of democracy, than anti-Apartheid activist and former Constitutional Court Justice, Justice Albie Sachs, and ANC stalwart and struggle veteran, Mavuso Msimang, to address the 2019 Freedom Seder held in Johannesburg on 14 April. Having been persecuted throughout the ages, the Jewish People are not only familiar with their own struggles for Freedom, but also have fought valiantly with many other People, at different times in history, for their release from slavery and oppression, not least of all, Black South Africans during the Apartheid era. The Jewish People therefore celebrate the Freedom Seder on regional, national and international levels. Last year in Durban the SAJBD KZN Council hosted an inter faith Freedom Seder where members of different religions celebrated what Freedom means to them. This year, the SAJBD at national level held a Freedom Seder hosting respected human rights speakers, Justice Albie Sachs and Mavuso Msimang, who shared their experiences of the struggle and building South Africa’s democracy. Although not a religious Jew, Justice Sachs grew up celebrating the traditional major Jewish festivals like Pesach, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Chanukah with his family. While in exile with Oliver Tambo, in the 1980’s, Justice Sachs drafted the Code of Conduct and Statutes for the ANC. After recovering from a bomb attack that was orchestrated by the Apartheid security agents and cost him his right arm, Justice Sachs returned to South Africa in 1990 to work on preparing the country’s new democratic Constitution. As a member of the Constitutional Committee and the National Executive Committee of the ANC, he played a fundamental role in the negotiations that shaped South Africa’s Constitutional Democracy. Speaking at the Freedom Seder, Justice Sachs, expressed his unwavering faith in South Africa’s exemplary Constitution, that was deliberately framed with built-in checks and balances to speak for the People’s Freedoms long after the Nelson Mandela era had passed. Even though South Africa is experiencing troubling times, Justice Sachs remains optimistic because we have a State President in Cyril Ramaphosa who has established State Capture

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Enquiry Commissions, revealing wrongs committed under the administration of former president, Jacob Zuma and others. In addition, we also have a new National Director of Public Prosecutions, advocate Shamila Batohi, who is committed to prosecuting corruption, and an independent Judiciary, headed by a strong Chief Justice, Mogoeng Mogoeng who is not afraid to make pronouncements against members of the executive and the legislature. Mavuso Msimang grew up in a dichotomous situation in Edendale, a township near Pietermaritszurg, which led him on a path of fighting for democracy in South Africa. His father, Richard Msimang was a missionary and one of only a handful of Black land owners in the Apartheid era, as well as a founding member of the South African Native National Congress (predecessor of the ANC). As a former member of the MK military high command, Mavuso Msimang played a leading role in the fight for democracy and devoted his life to developing and protecting our democracy. Holding a BSc. Entomology/Biology degree, he is a former chair of the South African National Parks and the Isimangaliso Wetland Park Authority. Today he serves as the chair of Corruption Watch South Africa and CEO of the Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Foundation. Continuing the fight for democracy in the run-up to the 2019 elections, Msimang called on the ANC to avoid adding the names of disgraced party members to their parliamentary candidate list. After the elections the ANC’s integrity committee has looked into the MP’s in question, which is believed to have led to some resignations of former cabinet ministers. In KZN, premier Sihle Zikalala requested eThekwini Metro Mayor Sandile Gumede, to take special leave pending the outcome of a court case in which she stands co-accused of swindling the city out of R208 million for work that was never done. SAJBD KZN vice president, Susan Abro who attended the Freedom Seder says there seems to be a political will to take a stand against corruption and with the ANC failing to secure a two - thirds majority in Parliament; the Constitution is still in charge. This is evident in the process of dealing with land reform, where a panel of experts recently handed over a report to the State President and Deputy President, which will now be considered. She says the current regime is careful to follow due process and not rush ahead with changes without considering the consequences, especially for South Africa’s presently embattled economy.

Justice Albie Sachs & Mangosuthu Buthelezi

Mavuso Msimang

Susan Abro at Freedom Seder

COMMUNITY NEWS

The UJC is fast becoming a destination venue for Semachot. This month we celebrated a Bar and Bat Mitzvah on the same Shabbat; Mazal Tov to Liran and Shayne Nathan from Israel.

Judge Alan Magid celebrated his 90th birthday; the evening hosted by Rabbi Zekry and Dr. Jonathan Beare.

July 2019

HASHALOM 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

THE DUHC CELEBRATES A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY

BY MICHAEL GREENBAUM

He has spent many years as Governor and Chairman of the Durban Hebrew Schools Association, of which he is Honorary Life Governor. His other prominent positions include Chairman of the Durban Jewish Club, the P.R. Committee and later VicePresident of the CKNJ and Chairman of the IUA / UCF Appeal. Judge Magid retired from the Bench after 13 years as a High Court Judge where he was highly regarded as a most respected jurist. Since then, he has been a Volunteer Guide at the Durban Holocaust Centre and a reader and editor for Tape Aids for the Blind. Alan has an inquiring analytical mind and a genial personality to all. Most significantly, Judge Magid has been an exemplary father and loving family husband. He was married to his beloved Brenda, OBM, for 60 years and together they raised Bess, Susan and Paul. He now has nine grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Judge Magid attends Shul regularly and to honour his birthday, a lavish Brocha was held on the Shabbat morning of his birthday week at the Silverton Road Synagogue. Rabbi Zekry praised Judge Magid for all his contributions and accomplishments over the years. On the following evening, Rabbi Zekry and Jonathan Beare hosted a dinner evening at the Umhlanga Jewish Centre to celebrate Judge Magid’s milestone birthday.

he DUHC was delighted to celebrate the milestone birthday of one of our most prominent and longest congregants when Judge Alan Magid recently celebrated his 90th birthday. As a leading member of our community, the DUHC has always been proud to have Judge Alan Magid as a leading figure in both the Jewish community and in his professional life as a Senior Advocate and Judge in the High Court of South Africa. The history of the Magid family in Durban goes back over 125 years. Judge Magid and his family have an impressive and proud history of community service in our congregation and in the broader Jewish community of Durban. Judge Magid has followed his father, Mr Lionel Magid, of Blessed Memory, a previous chairman of the DUHC, and his grandfather, Mr Eli Magid, OBM, who all helped build up a prestigious and influential Durban Jewish community. Despite his important professional responsibilities, Judge Magid has always actively involved himself in the operation and activities of our Shuls and community service organizations. He has been Chairman of the DUHC and currently holds the position of Trustee regularly attending DUHC Council meetings.

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July 2019

As Rabbi Zekry mentioned, Judge Magid has established a minhag of reading Haftarah Emor, his Bar Mitzvah Haftarah, from the actual book which he was given to him on the occasion of his Bar Mitzvah 77 years ago. Rabbi Zekry said that Parsha is Emor is most appropriate for Judge Magid because Emor means “Tell” and the name “Magid” itself means “preacher”. The Magid is known as a traditional Jewish religious itinerant preacher, skilled as a narrator of Torah and religious stories. The DUHC wishes Alan many more years of joy, with only bracha, mazal, nachas and “me’ah ve’esrim” (120 years).

COMMUNITY NEWS

Shavuot at Beit David was well attended with a Havdalah service preceding the Shavuot evening service, which was conducted by Harold Shapiro and Stephen Abrahams. After the service, everyone enjoyed a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;bring and shareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; supper and our cheese cake competition. The winning cheese cake was made by Louise Sinclair, Helene Epstein won second place and Hannah Norton third. Thank you to everyone who attended and making it a very enjoyable evening.

Grant Maserow Lori By Goldberg & Judith King

Louise Sinclair with her half eaten cheese cake

David & Michelle Campbell

Elizabeth Groot

July 2019

HASHALOM 17

COMMUNITY NEWS

BY SYLVIA COLLINS

BETH SHALOM HELD ITS FUNDRAISER RAFFLE FOR 2019

It is with great pleasure that I would like to congratulate and advise you of the winners of this raffle • • • • • • • • •

55” Telefunken UHD TV Set IPAD 64Gb Wi-Fi Cellular Pro DSTV Explora Silver Gallery Tray 6 Crystal Glasses and Decanter Set 21 Speed Mountain Bike R500 Zapper Voucher R500 Zapper Voucher 12 Year Old Bottle Chivas Regal Whisky

Markie Davidson Orli Essers Brenda Liansky Stan Donner Alan Magid Clarice Sternberg Judi Rosen Stephen Abrahams Tony Berman

Mazeltov to all the winners and thanks to everyone who took tickets. Our biggest thank you goes to two of our Committee members - namely Mr Marcel Nathan and Mr Mike Caminsky who drove this project and sold many tickets. These fund raising events assist our elderly and infirm residents. If you missed this year, don’t forget this is an annual event.

RESIDENTS DOING EXERCISES Residents doing their exercises in our recently upgraded Physio Department. The new facility has made exercise so much fun that we cannot get the residents to leave! Such fun and determination by our special golden oldies. Age is just a number.

Sylvia Heyman with Les Sol our Exercise co-ordinator

David Heyman Sylvia Heyman

Funds were donated by Vryheid Hebrew Congregation Memorial Trust. Shirley Palte

Rodney Palte

STAFF EXAMS

NURSES DAY

Our Housekeeping staff showing pride for passing their exams. Hearty congratulations to all the ladies and gents who did so-well. Beth Shalom is so proud of their achievement.

A lovely day of celebration for International Nurses Day was held at the Home on the 12 May 2019. The residents and visitors were treated to a wonderful celebration of remembrance of Florence Nightingale with a tribute and recital of the Nurse’s prayer. This was a very moving ceremony which all who attended thoroughly enjoyed.

The home values on-going education which is encouraged in every Department to ensure that Health and Safety protocols are adhered to.

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July 2019

HASHALOM 19

COMMUNITY NEWS NEWS COMMUNITY

• Work with dignity •

MASADA BOOKSHOP • • • • • •

We have a wonderful range of Bar/Bat Mitzvah gifts. Books, Mezuzot and Klafs. Taleisim, Yarmulkes. Kiddish Cups and Candlesticks Delicious Kiddish Wine. Credit Cards accepted.

WE WELCOME YOUR SUPPORT MASADA DONATIONS WE DO NOT RECEIVE ANY FINDING 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 050768581, BRANCH CODE:051001 TAX DEDUCTABLE DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT: 99, Bellevue Rd, Musgrave, Durban. Tel: 031-202-3419. 20 HASHALOM

July 2019

COMMUNITY NEWS

BY CHERYL UNTERSLAK

Ayelet and Cheryl when she went to give her, her wedding gifts from wonderful people in Durban

Yoav and Cheryl before the bris with his gorgeous son. It was a privilege to have been there

I have recently returned from Israel after an extremely rewarding and meaningful trip. For a while I have not been well and from the time of my diagnosis, I was determined to be well and to return to Israel and do the “work” I absolutely love doing, and to be able to go and daven at the Kotel to give gratitude to Hashem that I was well again. Baruch Hashem I am well. After landing and putting my suitcases in the hotel, I went straight to the Kotel to daven and it was a very emotional time for me. I’m grateful to Hashem for my healing and help during this journey and so grateful to the Moshal family for all their support, understanding, meals etc. during my journey and for giving me the opportunity to go back to Israel and to do what I passionately love to do. I had heard that a young couple whom I had met in Israel many years ago, had gotten engaged. In 2004 I met little Ayelet in her home with her siblings when delivering her gifts from the SA community after both her parents and her little brother were killed in a terrorist attack. It was terribly sad seeing these nine beautiful children suffer such a loss. Avigdor also lost his parents in a terrorist attack, and the two met at a support group for those who had lost their parents in piguim. I was so happy to hear about their engagement and that these two beautiful young people had found each other and were going to build a home together. I called Ayelet whom I have not seen nor spoken to for about 12 years. I started to explain that my name was Cheryl and that I was from an organization called DIVOTE, when all of a sudden she got so excited and shouted into the phone...”from South Africa!!!!” Ayelet told me that she remembered my coming to her home years ago and how she found the support from SA so comforting and she kept telling me that she had never forgotten the kindness and love. Ayelet also told me that she still had a beaded animal from SA in her home.

Ayelet with her two brothers in 2004 when she was a teenager with her DIVOTE gifts

I went to meet Ayelet in her lovely little apartment in Jerusalem and gave her two large bags of magnificent gifts that were given by members of the Durban Jewish community. Ayelet was so grateful and excited. She again spoke about how much the gifts and letters from the community in SA had meant to her over the years and also the wedding gifts now. Ayelet didn’t realize that she was in fact giving me a huge gift!! The next day I got a message on facebook from a young man who had lost his sister in a bombing in 2002 and then three months later another sister was very badly injured. He asked me if I was in Israel and if I could I attend his son’s bris the next day in Givon. I went to celebrate this wonderful simcha with him and his family and had the opportunity to give them a baby bag from DIVOTE filled with lovely gifts. The whole family were coming up to me and hugging me and again telling me about how much comfort and happiness they received all those years ago from the gift packages from SA and how deeply it had touched them. They kept saying thank you for the connection that they will never forget. Meeting these two heroes of terror again after all these years and hearing about how the gifts/chesed from the SA community had touched them and meant so much to them was such wonderful confirmation for me that we are doing the right thing!!!! I also keep hearing from children/families who have received letters in the past and how the heartfelt words had penetrated their hearts and so many have kept those letters. Thank you so much to everyone who has been part of this special mitzvah!!! DIVOTE is starting their Yomtov clothing appeal for children in Israel affected by acts of terrorism and who come from homes that are financially challenged so that those children will have new clothing to wear for the Chagim. If you would like to be part of this collection please contact me on: cheryl@divote.co.za

July 2019

HASHALOM 21

COMMUNITY NEWSNEWS COMMUNITY

Union of Jewish Women

The Shabbat Project 2018

This report covers the first year of my current term of office and as it has to align with our financial year therefore begins in April last year.

2018 “Stop doing and start being” was the theme of APRIL * Pesach at Beth Shalom the residents and the 2018 braai Shabbat project. Infor order to do this one needed Masadaniks. The meatand was the doneUJW to perfection by our to CONNECT JCF Challah Bake own “Braai Masters” to easefrom the burden helped the ladies our community doonjust the resident chefs. that. The ladies were reminded that the * Official Bake representation at theabout Yom HaShoah and Yom Challah is not really the challah… it’s about HaZikaron functionsas Jewish Women of Durban; Connecting * A team of UJW prepared the Connecting withExec our members Jewish Heritage by salmon making challah bagelstogether, for Yom Ha’atzmaut an age old tradition passed down from generation to generation of Jewish women; MAY * Under the auspices of the SAJBD Council Connecting with Hashem as weKZN prayed forand ourUJW families hundreds of our litresfriends of water were to theare specific and and forsent all who ill and Connecting projects in the Cape to Shabbath… help alleviate aproblems with The day of caused rest, by reflection the drought. and connections. JULY: * Weevent held our 80th with AGM,an once again, and in thememorable Seminar Room The began uplifting Shiur of theabout Durban Holocaust Centre. The interesting guest Emunah (Faith) by Lana Meltzer from Johannesburg. speaker was AgiHer Govender Director of CHOC adviceRegional of strengthening our faith (Childhood Cancerattitudes Association). A bulk donation of by changing to everyday situations gave knitted items wasfood handed to us all much for thought. Agi for distribution to their clients. Myra Goldenbaum, We UJW National shared birthday by have attending were also President, so privileged to,her once again, Robyn the meeting to bring a message from the NEC.Robyn Smookler lead our Challah Bake. * Peanut an butter was used to make 100’s of sandwiches brought incredible energy, passion and depth to our onChallah MandelaBake, Day. The support from our Community ensuring was overwhelming and the sandwiches an unforgettable experience very for gratefully the 150 ladies received by many schools, children’s homes & facilities and girls present. dealing with the homeless.

We all reluctantly floated away after a really AUGUST: * Women’s Day was celebrated with evening a manicure meaningful, magical and uplifting of morning Israeli for dancing the ladies at Masada. and beautiful singing by Leah Meltzer, * Members of the attended the NEC Arielle Levitan asDurban well asbranch Galia and Yael Meltz. meeting in Johannesburg. * The Beth Shalom concert was well attended by UJW Kol Hakavod to the UJW Women of Action. members * Our 30th Annual Charity Golf Day was an outstanding Until next year………. success. The prizes were outstanding and included the popular Umzolozolo Lodge mid-week for the winners. The Open Air School was one of the main beneficiaries and in place of starter packs for the players 30 bumper grocery packs were donated to families and staff in need. We are grateful for the ongoing generous support of the sponsors, donors and players. Our 31st Golf Day will be on 29th August 2019. All golfers please diarise this special event. * The UJW provided the Cycalive team with their “welcome to Durban” refreshments at the braai hosted by the South African Jewish Board of Deputies – KZN Council. SEPTEMBER: * Another enjoyable pre- Yom tov Braai was hosted by the Union of Jewish Women at Beth Shalom for the residents, Masadaniks and committee members. * At the Wizo Yom tov Market the Union soldout of teiglach. * the Beth Shalom AGM was attended by UJW representatives OCTOBER: * The Masadaniks and Jewel House residents were taken on an outing to Tala Game Reserve with our own Game Ranger – Kalvin Jacobson. It was a very special day including lunch and treats and thoroughly enjoyed. Thanks to Eden College for the use of their bus and competent driverDecember – Sipho. 2018/January 2019 22 HASHALOM * Open Air School prize giving mornings were attended as the Union sponsors subject awards to learners at both Junior and Senior levels. * The CKNJ KZN Council AGM and DJSS AGM were both

22 HASHALOM

July 2019

well attended by members of the UJW Executive * Shabbos Project Challah Bake was again “put together” by Tanya and her team. It was another outstanding success which began with an uplifting Shiur by Lana Meltzer. Thanks to Gaynor for hosting the guests and committee members to a delicious dinner. Watch for details of the 2019 UJW Challah Bake for another memorable event.

NOVEMBER: * The UJW again hosted a special Mitzvah Day function at Beth Shalom. Scrumptious eats were provided, as was enjoyable entertainment. Guests from the Eden Crescent retirement home attended. * A visit was then made to the Open Air School Boarding facility where generously donated Pizzas, together with UJW sponsored crisps, juice and sweets for the boarders. * Talmud Torah function attended to present the UJW Enthusiastic Participation award. * Open Air School Junior and Akiva College prize giving attended DECEMBER: * Eden College prize giving and Chesterville Schools “graduation” party attended. * A fun, enjoyed musical morning with Paula and Tammy was arranged at Jewel House. * All the Communal offices moved into “temporary” space to facilitate the refurbishment of the Club facilities. 2019 JANUARY: * A morning of art was sponsored for the Jewel House residents. Amazing canvases were created which now adorn the residents’ bedroom walls. FEBRUARY: * Durban representatives attended the UJW of SA National Interim meeting in Joburg. * New Mezuzot donated to Jewel House MARCH: * 3rd Women of Courage event in memory of Zelda Moshalz’l. The audience filled the Main Hall and enjoyed listening to “future star” Yael sing and then everyone was inspired by the stories of courageous women, including our own Sue Jacobson. ONGOING PROJECTS: Akiva College: Gemilut Chassadim Award in memory of Jean Kluk z’l awarded. Beth Shalom – monthly Friendship Club bingo meetings held with prizes and birthday gifts. Also prePesach and Rosh Hashana braais hosted for residents and Masadaniks. Botanic Gardens Kiosk - Our sincere thanks to the dedicated band of volunteers who undertook monthly duties over many years to help raise funds for SANTA. The kiosk has now unfortunately been discontinued. Chesterville Schools Association – cleaning supplies donated each term & treats supplied for end of year party attended by several members of the Durban committee CHOC (Childhood Cancer Association) supported with donations for the children in their care Denis Hurley Centre – duties undertaken at the Nkosinati feeding scheme for the homeless. DIVOTE - Gifts of clothing sent each year to Israel DJSS – Pesach & Rosh Hashanah vouchers donated to clients. Domino Foundation - weekly sandwich making for distribution to schools Durban Holocaust & Genocide Centre - sandwiches and juice continue to be donated to students from rural schools when they tour the DHGC. Eden College – Annual Gemilut Chassadim Award in memory of Jean Kluk z’l General donations including food, stationery, clothing and toys given to various projects and children’s homes and “safe houses”. Jabula School – association with this project ceased at the end of

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY NEWSNEWS

Union of Jewish Women

The Shabbat Project 2018

December 2018. Jewel House – project to supply a gift and birthday cake to each resident continues . Open Air School – Prizes donated end being” of year in Senior Juniorof “Stop doing and at start was theand theme phases the 2018 Shabbat project. In order to do this one Talmud Torah –needed award for in theChallah programme tocommitment CONNECT and andparticipation the UJW JCF continued Bake helped the ladies from our community The Elder’s Voice clothing, booksreminded supplied to helpthe provide do –just that.food, The toiletries, ladies were that for and keep abused senior citizens in really a safe environment. Challah Bake is not about the challah… it’s Umcebo donations of practical wasteascontinue be donated. Exciting about Connecting JewishtoWomen of Durban; new project in conjunction with Umcebo and theHeritage Denis Hurley Connecting with our Jewish by Centre makingto be launched soon. challah together, an age old tradition passed down Umduduzi knitted items donated for children attending thiswomen; palliative from generation to the generation of Jewish care facility. TheConnecting generous support our members, community and the with of Hashem as weour prayed for our general community is acknowledged with gratitude. is this recognition families and our friends and for allItwho are ill and of the importance of all our endeavours which makes our aefforts worthwhile. Connecting with The Shabbath… day of rest, reflection and connections.

We would welcome your participation in any of our projects. If you need further information please do not hesitate to call – 031 3354457 or email ujwdbn@djc.co.za and we will get back to you. I thank the Union committee for their support and dedication to our organisation. It is the commitment of this amazing group of ladies which makes everything not only possible but successful. My sincere thanks to each one of them. Sue Jacobson Executive Chair

Seen atThe theevent UJW 81st AGM began with an uplifting and memorable

Shiur about Emunah (Faith) by Lana Meltzer from Johannesburg. Her advice of strengthening our faith by changing attitudes to everyday situations gave us all much food for thought. We were also so privileged to, once again, have Robyn Smookler lead our Challah Bake. Robyn brought an incredible energy, passion and depth to our Challah Bake, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the 150 ladies and girls present. We all reluctantly floated away after a really meaningful, magical and uplifting evening of Israeli dancing and beautiful singing by Leah Meltzer, Arielle Levitan as well as Galia and Yael Meltz. Kol Hakavod to the UJW Women of Action. Until next year……….

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December 2018/January 2019

July 2019

HASHALOM 23

WWW.AKIVACOLLEGE.CO.ZA

AKIVA COLLEGE HASHALOM – JUNE 2019

YOM HA’ATZMAUT IS CELEBRATED WITH MINUTE TO WIN IT FUN AND ISRAELI FLAG CUPCAKES Akiva College returned for term 2 just in time to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut. The older grades took

DEPUTY AMABSSADOR FOR ISRAEL, AYELET BLACK, SHARES ON HOW TO ACHIEVE ONES LIFE GOALS.

part in a fun morning of Minute to Win It while the

Akiva College was

younger grades decorated Israeli flags and made

privileged to host the

blue and white beaded bracelets. Everyone

deputy Israeli

enjoyed a delicious blue and white cupcake made

ambassador, Ayelet Black,

by Morah Dina.

this term. Mrs Black addressed the whole assembly on reaching

LAG B’OMER BECOMES A SURVIVOR EXTRAVAGANZA Lag B’Omer followed soon after and once again the students had a fun filled morning. The morning was filled with fun and challenging Survivor games and ended with potatoes and S’mores on the bon fire. 24 HASHALOM

July 2019

goals, before speaking to the Senior Primary and High School students about Israel.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Michelle Nathan

Joyce Rogoff Z’L Joyce Rogoff was an active member of the Durban Women’s Zionist League (now WIZO Durban) for many years. She belonged to the Katie Gluckman Westville Branch. Joyce started a fund raising project “The no party tea party “ whereby guests were sent a invitation & asked to donate. It was most successful.

Open Air School Gala Earlier this year 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!

Joyce was Campaign Chairman in 1979 and Yael Dayan was the guest emissary from Israel. The Campaign was a resounding success.

Viv Stiller our treasured WIZO secretary was invited to be the guest of honour and awarded the children with their well-deserved prizes. Besides the yummy tea and snacks we were also privileged to meet South African Paralympian, Tyrone Pillay. What a treat!

Joyce was a committed member of Wizo Durban & always attended functions & showed keen interest in all the activities. She was much loved and will be sorely missed by all her WIZO sisters.

It was truly fulfilling to once again to see our young mobile wheelchair recipients thriving and having fun!

The Gift of Mobility On Tuesday 4 June, L’Oreal Professional Products Division KZN Team partnered with WIZO Durban in a touching hand over of a ‘Wheelchair of Hope’. The fortunate recipient was Sinazo Mayeza, a nine-year-old girl from RP Moodley School. Surrounded by her family, teachers and peers Sinazo was presented with a spanking new green wheelchair. Difficult circumstances necessitate that her father works out of town and her mom could no longer carry her around. Chaya Aviv member - Hayley Katzer together with her L’Oreal colleges – Evaleen Jammine, Melissa Botes and Michele Humphreys proudly handed over this incredible gift & indelibly changed Sinazo and her family’s life forever as she can now attend school. Thanks to WIZO & L’Oreal and for this incredible gift of mobility.

July 2019

HASHALOM 25

Durban Journey to Eastern Europe with Limmud Durban for only R180*

(EARLY BIRD SPECIAL until 7 AUGUST) CZECH REPUBLIC

POLAND

JONATHAN WEBBER

HUNGARY

SONJA VILIČIĆ

Jonathan Webber is a British anthropologist and Jewish activist living in Kraków, Poland. Specializing in modern Jewish society, Holocaust studies, Polish–Jewish studies, and Jewish heritage, he taught at Oxford, Birmingham, and the Jagiellonian University, Kraków; he is now retired. He was the cofounder of the Galicia Jewish Museum in Kraków, where he co-curated its permanent exhibition.

Born in Serbia, Sonja Viličić is a graduate of the Melton Senior Educators Program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. She has worked for the Joint Distribution Committee in Budapest in various positions, one of which was programme director of the Szarvas youth camp. Sonja lives in Belgrade, where she is one of the founders and Executive Director of the NGO Haver Srbija, coordinator of the educational programme of the Federation of Jewish communities of Serbia and a Limmud volunteer.

E V A S E TH E DAT

ROMANIA

SERBIA

INTERNATIONAL PRESENTERS

COURSE MEAL BULGARIA

AFTERNOON AND EVENING

21 AUGUST 2019 LIMMUD DURBAN

Durban Jewish Centre

COMMUNITY NEWS

Lag Baomer drumming circle

Shalom, Our second term began with the sad and sombre day of Yom Hashoah, and with Mrs. Rivka Hermelin sharing her extensive knowledge about the events and circumstances preceding the Shoah period with our pupils.

Lev making the sauce for felafels

Juxtaposed with the seriousness of Yom Hashoah were the jolly, giggling sounds coming from the Judaica Centre on Yom Ha’atzmaut. The centre was a hive of activity as pupils eagerly participated in the falafel workshop ably overseen by Chef Russel. Working as one efficient team, pupils in group 1 sliced and diced vegetables; group 2 made up the falafel mixture; and group 3 rolled and formed it into balls. Then our very capable high school pupils set about frying the falafel balls, ensuring that they were cooked to perfection. And our final team made the traditional hummus. The activity culminated with each pupil assembling their own pita, falafel and salads. Yardena, Talia and Daniel

After enjoying their culinary creations, pupils unanimously agreed that the Judaica team had worked well together to produce some of the most scrumptious and tasty falafel. Our first ever very well attended Lag BaOmer “Build a burger braai” was a resounding success. The delicious braai aroma coupled with the tasty salad, cooked burgers and fresh rolls were just a few of the delights that made this family function so enjoyable. It must, however, be said that the drumming circle that we all participated in after our meal was the highlight activity. Drumming together as young and old, we managed to create our own perfectly harmonised and pulsating rhythm and sounds. This is definitely an activity we will do again.

Drumming circle

So, from a very busy second term at Eden ...lehitraot ‘til next month! Our felafel workshop

Slicing and dicing salads

Enjoying the build a burger braai

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HASHALOM 27

COMMUNITY NEWS

SHAI ABRAHAMSON WOWS THE CROWD

n 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.

functions ever held in Durban. Shai Abramson is world class and it truly was a privilege to attend.â&#x20AC;? Grateful thanks go to the generous donors, The Victor Daitz Foundation, The Beare Foundation and the JAKAMaR Trust, without whom this concert would not have been possible.

The evening included a wide repertoire of cantorial and classical music, Hebrew and Israeli songs, and even popular and rock numbers. Shai, a lyric tenor, succeeded in emotionally connecting with the Durban community though his beautiful singing and his warm and engaging personality. Shai Abramson was born in Jerusalem, and was exposed to the world of cantorial music at a young age. During his teen years, he participated in the choir of the Great Synagogue in Jerusalem during the High Holiday season. He was fortunate enough to study with some of the best teachers in Israel, including Maestro Elli Jaffe, Cantor Moshe Stern, Cantor Naftali Herstik and Dr Mordechai Sobol. In 2008, Shai Abramson was appointed Chief Cantor of the Israel Defence Forces. He serves as the representative cantor of the State of Israel, and participates in formal state occasions and ceremonies in this capacity. Shai also participates in prayer services and in concerts throughout Israel and the world with a variety of musical ensembles, including the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. Feedback from the concert has been overwhelmingly positive. Linda Nathan, who attended the event with her husband Marcel, said of the concert that it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;one of the most impressive

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July 2019

Cantor Shai Abramson

COMMUNITY NEWS

Some of our Talmud Torah students having fun learning

July 2019

HASHALOM 29

COMMUNITY NEWS

** Meet Cycalive 2019 ** The SAJBD KZN Council invites you to join us on Thursday 1 August 2019 from 16h15 to welcome the 2019 Cycalive Team to our city Cycalive, launched in 1998, follows the journey of a team of exuberant Grade 11 boys from diverse backgrounds as they cycle from Johannesburg to Durban and is designed to encourage ubuntu among South Africa’s youth.

Cycalive is recognised highly by the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Participants are from Torah Academy Johannesburg, Moletsane High School Soweto, Pace Community College Soweto, Afrika Tikkun and Beit Shemesh Israel. The cyclists were given an impressive send off in Johannesburg and we need to give them a HUGE WARM DURBAN WELCOME!

Please support this incredible initiative and let’s make Cycalive’s arrival in Durban one to remember! Enquiries: Liezel Patterson cknj@djc.co.za or 031 335 4452

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July 2019

COMMUNITY NEWS

Cooking with Judy and Linda THE GREAT AMERICAN FRENCH TOAST COLLECTION CATHY’S FRENCH TOAST SOUFFLÉ 8 Eggs 125g Butter 1½ Cups milk ½ Cup dark brown sugar 1 Tablespoon dark brown sugar ¼ Cup maple or golden syrup 2 Teaspoons vanilla 100g Pecan nuts 8 Thick slices challah or raisin bread (good for leftover raisin challah at Rosh Hashanah)

Mix eggs, milk, vanilla and the tablespoon of brown sugar - Pour half of it into a 33 x 23cm dish. Place bread slices in dish then top with the other half of the egg mixture. Cover and chill overnight. Preheat oven to 180degC. Grease a large casserole dish. Melt the butter, then add the ½ cup brown sugar, syrup and nuts. Pour it into the prepared casserole dish. Carefully lift the soaked bread onto this, using all the egg mixture* Bake for 35 - 45 minutes and serve. *If the bread has soaked up all the egg mixture before baking, beat 1 egg with ¼ cup milk and pour it into the casserole.

APPLE CARAMEL FRENCH TOAST 12 Eggs ½ Cup dark brown sugar 2 Cups milk ¼ Cup water 2 Teaspoons vanilla 6 - 12 slices bread – any kind you like. 125g Butter 3 or 4 Apples, unpeeled and sliced then halved

Preheat oven to 180degC. Beat the eggs, milk and vanilla – set aside. Melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar and water. Pour the butter and sugar mixture into a 33 x 23cm greased dish. Arrange the apple slices on top then layer the bread slices on top of that, making sure the apple slices are completely covered. Lastly, pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread ensuring that every piece of bread is wet. Sprinkle with some cinnamon and, if you like, a sprinkling of brown sugar and chopped nuts. Bake for 45 – 50 minutes. Serve immediately Can make this, cover with plastic wrap, then bake the next day.

CREAM CHEESE FRENCH TOAST 6 Cups white bread Cubes - crusts removed ½ Cup sultanas 250g Plain smooth cream cheese ½ Teaspoon cinnamon 6 Eggs, well beaten 1/3 Cup maple or golden syrup 1 Cup milk 1 Teaspoon vanilla

Place half the bread into a greased 21/ 22cm square dish. Top with teaspoons or small cubes of cream cheese, the sultanas, then the remaining bread cubes. Beat the eggs, milk, cinnamon, syrup and vanilla and pour it over the bread. Cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight. Heat oven to 190degC. Remove plastic and bake for 45 minutes. Serve immediately.

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HASHALOM 31

BIRTHS Mazeltov to: Barry and Lois Shevil on the birth of a granddaughter born to Jenna and Neil Meyerowitz. Neville and Melanie Bernstein on the birth of a granddaughter born to Darryl and Joni.

BIRTHDAYS Mazeltov to: Sandy Wolfe on her 70th birthday. Dr Jeff Chanoch on his 80th birthday. Gerselle Epstein on her 80th birthday. Selma Lurie on her 70th birthday.

BAT/BAR MITZVAH Mazeltov to: The Levin and Nathan families on the Bar and Batmitzvah of Liran and Shayna Nathan. The Baitz family on Bellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Batmitzvah. Gary and Karen Plen on the Batmitzvah of their daughter Shira, granddaughter of Colin Plen and Steve and Rose Deubler.

JULY/AUGUST 2019 Date

Event

Venue

17 July

Sisterhood Bingo

Beth Shalom

18 July

Mandela Day

DJC

19 July

Oneg Shabbat

Beth Shalom

31 July

KNZC event: Isaac Herzog Chairman of the Jewish Agency

DJC

1 Aug

Cycalive

DJC

6 Aug

Sisterhood Meeting

Back of Beit David shul

7 Aug

Friendship Club

Beth Shalom

ENGAGEMENTS Mazeltov to: Dr. Lionel Wolff on the engagement of his son Nolan to Ashley Merkur in Australia.

WEDDINGS Mazeltov to: Nick & Jane Meyerowitz on the marriage of their daughter Kate to Gavin Levenstein. Jack and Rene Strous on the marriage of their granddaughter Talia Edelman to Akiva Schiff in the USA.

ANNIVERSARIES Mazeltov to: David and Marliene Rogoff on their Golden wedding anniversary.

DEATHS Condolences to: Shirley Isralls on the passing of her husband Basil. Deborah and Colin on the passing of their mother, Joyce Rogoff. Kara Hoffman on the passing of her father. The family of Dr. Gerald Baise.

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Hashalom is not responsible for errors and omissions. Please submit your information in writing to The Editor, PO Box 10797, Marine Parade 4056 or fax to (031) 3379600 or email hashalom@djc.co.za.

Hashalom is not responsible for errors and omissions. Please submit your information in writing to The Editor, PO Box 10797, Marine Parade 4056 or fax to (031) 3379600 or email hashalom@djc.co.za. 32 HASHALOM

July 2019