April 2019
Our Community . Our People . Our Magazine
Volume 95. No 7
March 2014
â–ˆ
HASHALOM 1
EDITORIAL
02
Editorial Special Feature
04
06I
Sports/Travel Current Affairs
08 To 10
Health
11
Bubkes
12
Past Tense Community News
13
SAJBD 13
UJC
14
DUHC
15
Beit David
16
Beth Shalom
17
KZNC
18
Talmud Torah
19
Masada
20
Chabad
21
Divote
22
UJW
23
Akiva College
24
Wotsup WIZO
25
Limmud
26
Eden School
27
Durban Jewish Social Services
28
Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre
29
Young Israel Centre
30
Cooking with Judy and Linda
31
Social and Personal
32
Diary of Events
32
Mistakes happen...
Hayley Lieberthal
We are taught from a young age that mistakes happen, and that
when they do, we are also taught to learn from them so that we can grow and move forward. We learn an invaluable life lesson, which
inevitably prepares us for what lies ahead. Soon enough when our children, nieces or nephews, perhaps our younger cousins make a mistake, we pass on this wisdom and they too benefit from the advice We go as far as to re-enforce the philosophy because we
know how important it is to encourage them and show support. After all, don’t we want to help them become the best versions of themselves?
Yet, the same does not seem to apply when we as adults make a mistake. We are either too hard or self-critical of ourselves and
others. We are quick to sit on top of a triangle looking down and forget the golden rule that we were taught as children. Berating
yourself or others will only lower your self-esteem, and why would you do that when we are all born to shine in our own unique ways?
Ironically, a few hours prior to writing this editorial, my dear friend
accidentally closed the gate on my car. She came running out in the
rain to see the damage and I explained that I was fine, and that it 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.
is just a car - nobody was hurt and she had bigger fish balls to fry
Hashalom Editorial Board: Editor: Hayley Lieberthal Editorial Board: Hayley Lieberthal, Michelle Campbell Lauren Shapiro, Mikki Norton Production Manager: Jacqui Herbst
in harm’s way, I also knew that my friend would undoubtedly be
Notice to Organisations/Contributors: All material to be submitted by email to hashalom@djc.co.za Get in touch with the editor: editor@djc.co.za DEADLINE FOR THE MAY EDTION: WEDNESDAY 8 MAY
the moment that led up to it – I went as far as picturing her hitting
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 to Print24 Visit our website: www.hashalom.co.za
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before Friday. Now I am the first to admit that I am humanly flawed,
and in that moment I knew that my car could be fixed and I wasn’t giving herself a harsh mental scolding. With all this in mind, I hated knowing how hard she would be on herself, I saw her sitting at the
top of the triangle looking down on her actions – perhaps replaying her hand against her forehead whilst she waited to tell her husband why the gate was no longer working. It wasn’t an hour later that my husband shared an insightful thought…
A triangle on its own has three pointed sides, yet what if we took another triangle and inverted it so that it was on top of the first
triangle – Magen David – David’s shield is not only a symbol of Judaism, it is also a reminder to stop putting ourselves on the corners, that there is plenty of space for everyone in the middle.
May this be the month we are able to pay our bills because you paid your subscription
Our Community Our People Our Magazine May 2019
HASHALOM 3
SPECIAL ISRAEL FEATURE
71 YEARS OF BENEFITING HUMANITY BY Hayley Lieberthal
From the onset of becoming a nation, Israel has changed the world in entertainment, healthcare and agriculture to name a few. Israel is well known as the Start-Up Nation with 1100-1300 startups being established each year. Yet long before the age of Silicon Valley, Israel has been producing groundbreaking inventions that have benefited the world over. As Israel celebrates her 71st birthday, Hashalom highlights a handful of the innovations and inventions that have stemmed from a nation who will not stop moving forward, creating pride in the hearts of every Jew across the globe.
Rummikub
That’s right! This bring-the-family-together game was invented by Ephraim Hertzano, a Romanian Jew who immigrated to Israel in the 1940s. At first, every piece of the game was hand-made by his family in their backyard; from there Hertzano took to selling the game door-to-door and supplied it on consignment to small shops. As we now know, the game took off and by 1977 Rummikub became the best-selling game in the US
Biological pest control
Kibbutz Sde Eliyahu,in northern Israel grows dates, grapes, pomegranates, and spices to name a few, yet it is their organic farming methods and the use of non-pesticide management that has taken farming to new levels. Bio-Bee is the world’s leading producer of phytoseiulus persimilis, the most effective natural predator of tetranychus urticae (red spider mite). The kibbutz breeds insects and mites for biological pest control as well as bumblebees for natural pollination in greenhouses and open fields
Mobileye
Founded in 1999, this Israeli company - which is now a subsidiary of Intel - produces software that senses the future in driving. Utilising algorithms and images from a tiny camera in the car, the software alerts drivers of potential hazards, such as pedestrians and steering out of the lane. Some car manufacturers such as Volvo, BMW and GM already utilise Mobileye in their cars. To date, 30 million vehicles worldwide are fitted with Mobileye technology.
ReWalk
Drip irrigation systems
Israeli engineer Simcha Blass noticed a specific tree that was growing larger than those around it. Upon closer inspection, he found that the larger tree was being fed water by a leaking water pipe, and thus Netafim was founded in 1965. Modern drip irrigation is utilized worldwide, having revolutionised agriculture.
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After a tragic accident that left Dr Amit Goffer a quadriplegic, he became driven for disabled people to regain a sense of dignity and autonomy. The invention of ReWalk took many years to come to fruition, and now enables quadriplegics to walk again through a bionic walking exoskeleton. Wearing the system, severely physically disabled people can not only walk again, but climb stairs and even run marathons.
SPECIAL FEATURE
Waze
Founded in 2006, Waze Mobile created “FreeMap Israel”, GPS software designed to navigate through Israeli roads by utilising user experience. The app expanded worldwide with an estimate of 50-million users in 2013. Its success triggered international interest and Google subsequently bought the company for 1.1 billion dollars.
PillCam
Thanks to inventor Gavriel Iddan, we can say goodbye to unpleasant colonoscopies and upper gastrointestinal scopes by swallowing a tiny camera that is hidden inside a pill. Iddan’s idea of a wireless capsule for an endoscopy was brought to life in the 1990s. He co-founded Given Imaging which marketed his prototype and in 2001, with the approval from the FDA, the PillCam was released. The PillCam is used in over 75 countries and by more than 2 million people.
The USB flash drive
The first USB flash drive - which we all have used at some point or another - was developed and patented by M-systems Ltd, situated less than 30-minutes outside of Tel Aviv, and is well-known for their invention of the first flash drive -“DiskOnChip”, and the first USB flash drive - “DiskOnKey”. Founder Dov Moran sold the company to ScanDisk some 17 years later for 1.6 billion dollars.
WoundClot bandages
Israeli medical company Core Scientific Creations developed a bandage that can save lives in minutes. The WoundClot bandage made international headline news in 2016 and does what it says on the box. The bandage is made up of cellulose (plant cells) which aids in stimulating the body’s clotting process and stops blood loss. It is also bio-absorbable and remains biologically active for 24-36 hours, finally breaking down naturally in the body within a week. The bandage was invented to assist wounds where compression can be harmful, such as stab wounds, head injuries and internal bleeding. This bandage is an essential part of first responders to any scene, and has saved many lives where wounds would have been fatal in the past.
Iron Dome
The Iron Dome has saved thousands of lives and is one of Israel’s greatest military inventions. This air defence system was developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd, and is designed to intercept short-range rockets and mortar shells. The Iron Dome was first deployed in 2011 in the southern region of Israel to intercept rockets from Gaza, and has an astonishing 90% success rate thanks to radar and cameras that track the arms.
BabySense The 8088 processor
In the 1990s Intel Israel, based in Haifa, revolutionised the modern day computer by inventing the 8088 processor. This processor laid the foundations for the modern computer, also referred to as “the brain” of the first personal computer. Furthermore, the 8088 processor paved the way for the processors that most of us have in our computers today.
Today’s baby monitors have stemmed from BabySense. Israeli company HiSense developed the first non-touch, breathing movement monitor. The device does not emit radiation and is designed to prevent cot death by monitoring the baby’s breathing and movements during sleep. The monitor is placed under the baby’s mattress, where an auditory and visual alarm is activated if breathing ceases for more than 20 seconds, or if breath rate slows down to less than 10 breaths per minute.
May 2019
HASHALOM 5
SPORTS / TRAVEL
From Jerusalem to Berlin BY Lauren Shapiro
When a race route is a journey through history
Some people try to run from their past; others choose to run through it. Hashalom speaks to two Durban runners – both community members and running comrades – who selected their athletic goals with their history in mind.
Jerusalem of gold The ninth international Jerusalem Marathon brought runners and supporters from around the world to Israel’s capital on 15 March. 40 000 runners from 80 countries took part in the challenging race, including 150 from South Africa. “This year, the Jerusalem Marathon was record-breaking — in terms of overall participants, foreign runners, and tourists to Israel,” enthused newly-elected Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion at the event. “The marathon brought NIS 20 million (some $5 million) to businesses in the city,” he added.
who participates. Durban’s own Rabbi Pinchas Zekry of the Durban United Hebrew Congregation (DUHC) completed the half marathon in an admirable two hours, ten minutes. And there’s more to it than the race: “It’s not just a marathon,” Rabbi Zekry declares. “Jerusalem is something special. It’s like running through your history.” The route passes many key historical and cultural sites in the 3000-year-old city, including the Old City, the Kotel, David’s Tower, the Sultan’s Pool, the Via Dolorosa, Mount Zion, Mount of Olives, Mount Scopus and Ammunition Hill. Runners also get a close look at the Knesset (Israeli parliament), Machaneh Yehuda marketplace, the trendy German Colony, and the Haas Promenade (AKA the Tayelet), with its breath-taking views of the ancient city.
As in previous years, runners had the option of participating in the full marathon (42.2km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km and 5km runs, a 1.7km family race or an 800m community race.
“Hashem blessed us with a physical body and we must take care of it because it is the house of the soul,” Rabbi Zekry explains. “Running – and exercise in general – is a mitzvah.” He encourages others to support the Jerusalem Marathon, showing solidarity with Israel and its capital.
Come athletes, come all
Been there, done that…
The annual race draws hundreds of elite runners from across the global and is “a challenging, thrilling and unforgettable experience,” according to www.worldsmarathons.com. It’s not only for professional athletes, however. Canadian Running called it “a holy, hilly and extraordinary experience” for anyone
Perhaps Shapiro’s greatest achievement that day, however, was his wardrobe: he wore the Jerusalem Marathon T-shirt. “It was all a little surreal,” Warren confides. “There I was, proudly wearing a T-shirt trumpeting the capital of the Jewish people, in front of the Reichstag, where 80 years ago all my rights were destroyed. It felt, in my own little way, like I had come to Berlin and conquered it.”
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SPORTS / TRAVEL
Ich bin ein Berliner A few weeks later, another Durbanite entered a half marathon on another continent: in Berlin, Germany. Motivated by Rabbi Zekry, chairman of Akiva College Warren Shapiro ran the Generali Berliner Half Marathon on 7 April. He chose Berlin because it was “Ground Zero for everything that happened to our people,” Warren explains. “I wanted to go back there and run, freely.” Starting at the city’s iconic Victory Column, the track runs through Checkpoint Charlie – the infamous Berlin Wall crossing point between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War – before ending in front of the Reichstag buildings. Runners also pass near Kurfurstendamm (the main commercial street), Brandenburg Gate, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Rabbi Zekry on the road
International racing community www.raceraves. com rates it only 1/5 for difficulty and 5/5 for scenery, so it’s a must on many runners’ bucket lists. Warren completed the race in two hours, 46 minutes.
On the run? If you’re interested in following in these fellows’ athletic footsteps: The tenth International Jerusalem Marathon will take place on Friday 13 March 2020. For more information or to register, visit www.jerusalem-marathon.com The BMW Berlin Marathon takes place on 29 September. Details for the 2020 Generali Berlin Half Marathon will be available soon at www.generali-berliner-halbmarathon.de/en/
Runner with a cause Your running is not just good for yourself – it can help others too! Incorporating a social and communal dimension in the race gives added value to the runners’ experience, explain the coordinators of the Jerusalem marathon. Funds raised through the official website go to one of 14 participating NGOs including the Israel Cancer Association, The Lone Soldier Center, the Jerusalem Rape Crisis Center, and several organisations dedicated to helping people with challenges live fuller, richer lives. Worldwide, you can run for charity through apps like Charity Miles, which partners with over 40 worldclass charities supporting health, education, children, animals and the environment. Alternatively, platforms like www.mightycause.com allow you to pick your own cause.
Warren Shapiro ran the Generali Berlin Half Marathon in April Warren Shapiro ran the Generali Berlin Half Marathon in April
Not a runner? You can donate to these causes anyway, and feel spiritually fit!
Beyond the race Warren is a keen history buff. Whilst in Berlin, he visited key sites in modern Jewish history, such as Tiergartenstrasse 4 (from where the Nazis’ euthanasia programme was run) and the Wannsee House (where the “Final Solution to the Jewish problem” was planned). “I found it incredible that it took less time to plan the destruction of an entire people, than it did for me to run a half marathon!” he declares. “It was incredibly moving. I found myself mouthing the words of the Kaddish in the conference room at Wannsee, viscerally feeling the loss.”
Warren Shapiro crosses the finish line of the Generali Berlin Half Marathon
Warren also visited Nuremberg, where Hermann Goring and other Nazi war criminals were convicted in 1946. “As an advocate, it is what Wembley is to soccer fans,” reveals the lawyer. “Standing in Courtroom 600 at the Nuremberg Palace of Justice, I felt such pride that the law prevailed.” Warren feels vindicated that these malefactors were brought to justice, and – as a father of three – is proud that his people have survived, and thrived. “It was an incredible trip,” Warren concludes. “Three words sum up how I felt as I came home: Am Yisrael Chai.”
May 2019
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Current Affairs
It’s not business; it’s just personal BY Jacqueline Herbst
Photo credit: Albert Hirasen Directly contradicting the portion of the ANC’s Freedom Charter that proclaims that “South Africa shall be a fully independent state which respects the rights and sovereignty of all nations”, the ruling party’s insistence on cutting ties with Israel seems to be more personal than business and appears to resemble perhaps the most well-known line from George Orwell’s Animal Farm: “All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others”. When corporate governance and traditional affairs minister, Zweli Mkhize recently addressed the Durban Jewish leadership on the topic of building trust, his message was met with nodding heads and utterings of approval. “The ANC has made some mistakes, but now it is time to fix it,” he said. Zweli further thanked the Jewish community for
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their vital role that they continue to play in the administration, leadership and job creation in South Africa, as well as their role in the struggle for freedom. He went on to say: “The Jewish community has an important role to play in helping us grow the economy, including transformation. We must sit together and discuss what can be done.” However, three weeks later international relations and co-operation minister, Lindiwe Sisulu, announced the permanent withdrawal of South Africa’s ambassador from Tel Aviv, a move she said was only “stage one” in downgrading relations with Israel. The permanent withdrawal takes the downgrade of the embassy a step further than the ANC did at its 2017 elective conference, when it ordered government to downgrade the embassy in the so-called “Apartheid State” of Israel to a liaison office but leave Israel’s embassy in Pretoria as is.
Current Affairs Her statement that the ANC already had “no relations with Israel” and the government should adopt the same position as soon as possible, was in direct opposition to Mhkize’s statement and hints at a culture of equivocation within the ruling party. Recently speaking at the 2019 Dr. Phyllis Naidoo memorial lecture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal on the topic of key international issues facing South Africa, Sisulu firmly said: “Until the people of Palestine are free, none of us are free”. She, however fumbled when asked whether South Africa would be consistent in downgrading embassies of other countries (case in point, Zimbabwe) where human rights violations are known to take place. She started off by making it clear that the decision to cut ties with Israel was not hers, but something the ANC has been talking about for many years and recently pressurized her to enforce. “The issue of Israel and Palestine is something that we have been concerned with for a very long time. We have had very good fraternal relations with the people of Palestine, fighting a similar struggle against occupation. The ANC has been insisting that we find finality to this matter; they had said immediately.” She said the ANC has in the past unsuccessfully tried to negotiate a two-state solution with both parties, which she said led to the ANC in 2017 at their 54th National conference ordering government with immediate effect to downgrade our embassy in Israel. In a gutless attempt to further distance herself from the downgrade she said: “At that time I was sitting in the back seats there and it did not affect me; I was somewhere in human settlements” Moving on to the second part of the question, she briefly “forgot” what the question was and after being reminded by the journalist who asked the question, went on to say: “No, I have no idea if it will apply, but this is something that has been discussed by the ANC on an ongoing basis and finally the resolution that was adopted was after protracted discussions and deliberations with both Israel and the Palestinian people, and this is a resolution that I unfortunately inherited” – once again denying a hand in the downgrade.
Furthermore, considering that 20% of all 900 Nobel Prizes ever awarded was granted to Jewish individuals - a population making up less than 0.2% of the world population, lends credibility to the idea of “Jewish Genius” – the term by which Moshal describes the Jewish people’s ability to come up with original thoughts and bring them to fruition. Referencing the recently opened state-of-the-art Dr. Jack Abelsohn Neonatal Unit at Groote Schuur Hospital, the Israeli-built water plant supplying water to thousands of rural South Africans and the large number of under-privileged students benefiting from academic scholarships, all possible because of contributions made by Jewish donors, Moshal pointed out that it would be counterproductive for South Africa to walk away from Israel. COSATU Choosing to ignore the good things Jews do in South Africa, COSATU argues that South African Jews only care about Israel and feel nothing for South Africa. Undeterred by the knowledge that the SAJBD represents South African Jews and not the Israeli government, they continue on insisting that the South African Jewish community is responsible for what happens in Israel. From their repeated attacks on the Jews in South Africa, it is evident that for them, besmirching Israel is not enough and they also want to force the Jews to turn on the State. However, the SAJBD is resolute in their stance: Cosatu’s attempts to intimidate the South African Jewish community will not work. As loyal citizens of a constitutional democracy, we will not allow any organisation to dictate to us what we can and cannot say, nor what opinions or beliefs are we supposed to hold”. SAJBD KZN Council Vice-President, Susan Abro said South African Jews being supportive of both South Africa and Israel was like supporting two football clubs, something that is perfectly acceptable. She said instead of cutting ties, the government should work with Israel to resolve the issues.
Jewish Genius What the ANC seemingly fails to realise is how much the country stands to lose by divorcing itself from Israel and alienating the South African Jewish community. “Downgrading the South African embassy in Israel is like cutting a branch off a tree while sitting on it,” Honorary Life President of the SAJBD KZN Council, John Moshal said. Israel, being the size of Kruger National Park, produces three times the Gross Domestic Product of South Africa and having gifted the world with life-changing inventions like the drip feed system, the rooftop solar hot-water system, the laser projected keyboard used today in tablets, quasicrystals, the Pillcam endoscopic capsule, the USB flash drive, the Iron Dome that saves thousands of lives by intercepting rockets before they hit their intended targets, has much to offer a country in dire need of economic revival.
May 2019
HASHALOM 9
HEALTH
Cell Phone Ergonomics BY JACQUELINE HERBST Everyone understands the value of ergonomic furniture at home, the office, and public spaces like restaurants, airports and movie theatres. A well-designed, comfortable bed with a good pillow could mean the difference between a productive day or a migraine and back spasms followed by a trip to the chiropractor. While an ergonomic office chair reduces strain on the shoulders, back, neck, wrists, hips and knees, have you ever considered the strain your cell phone puts on your body? The amount of time we spend using our cell phones sending messages, browsing the internet, making calls or looking at photos and video content has been found to have a profound impact on our necks, wrists, eyes and thumbs. Looking down while texting and browsing, or clenching one’s cell phone between the ear and shoulder during calls puts strain on the neck which often causes knots and spasms as well as nerve pain radiating to the back, shoulders and arms. Experts recommend holding your phone properly and slightly higher up, maintaining good upright posture (not lurching forward), taking regular breaks and participating in regular exercise like yoga and pilates to stretch and strengthen muscles. Excessive typing, be it on WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram, or writing emails increases the risk of developing trigger finger – a condition in which the finger gets stuck in a bent position and then snaps or pops when straightened. There is also the possibility of causing inflammation of the tendons in your thumb, known as trigger thumb or “texters thumb”, not forgetting the long term effects from over-use that could lead to thumb arthritis, which is worsened by gripping the phone whilst texting. So how do we slow down in a world that is speeding up?
more and more people’s smartphones that extends and collapses like an accordion, it is a simple and relatively inexpensive little “ergonomic” cell phone devise that could help relieve these conditions. Originally invented as a headset management system by Canadian David Barnett, the gadget is primarily used as a grip or stand. As a grip it allows the user to effortlessly rest the cell phone between any two fingers without putting any strain on the wrist and hand, and also alleviates stress off the thumb as the hand is more relaxed - and by extension so too the thumb. It also makes taking selfies a lot easier. As a kickstand, the PopSocket allows the phone to stand upright, which makes reading an e-book or watching a video hands-free, it also improves driver safety as it clips into a specially designed car vent mount for when using GPS. Unfortunately the PopSocket won’t do much to protect your eyes against straining, which is caused by the short wavelength blue light emitted by smartphones and other screens, including tablets computers and televisions. Fortunately, some smartphones now have a built-in “comfort view” setting which filters and reduces blue light emission and protects the cornea which keeps your vision sharper for longer.
Enter the PopSocket – that strange round gizmo on the back of
The PopSocket reduces strain off hands, wrists and thumbs.
Contact us Taking selfies made easy with a PopSocket.
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BUBKES
Beating a Retreat Lauren Shapiro
Shhh… don’t tell my Rabbi, but this weekend I went to the Buddhist Retreat Centre. Nelson Mandela declared it a Natural Heritage Site for its indigenous biodiversity. CNN featured it as one of the ten finest meditation centres in the world. With such acclaim, I had to see it for myself, so I signed up for a yoga retreat. I expected beautiful natural surroundings, delicious vegetarian food, and bucket-loads of Zen. I got all of that. And yet. There were other things I hadn’t anticipated. Like the ubiquitous statues with floral offerings laid before them. Or the rising gong (I dubbed it the surp-rising gong) calling us to get up and ready for the day. Or the Noble Silence. Now don’t get me wrong, I appreciate silence as much as the next mother of three young kids. In moderation. The length of a bubble bath, say. Or that blissful spell on the way back from dropping the kids at school. The Amidah is a perfect amount of silence to concentrate on my connection to the Divine and my purpose and priorities in life. But at the retreat centre I was expected to keep shtum from early evening until after breakfast the next morning. AFTER BREAKFAST! Have you ever been in a room FULL of people where the only sound is the restrained tip tap of spoons against their bowls? It’s enough to make you scream. (Except you’re not allowed to. Perhaps that’s the point.) Noble silence is observed at all times in the dormitory. That’s 24/7. My roommate and I were constantly in fits of silent giggles trying to communicate things like “would you like a cup of tea?” and “may I please borrow your cellphone charger?” It was like being at a communal dinner where we washed our hands and only said “hamotzi” a few hours later. (But now I can promise you that we’d beat anyone hands-down at charades!) Another unfamiliar practice was the mandatory removal of shoes when entering a room from the outdoors. We were all compelled to add our footwear to the pile in the doorway and shuffle around in socked silence, musing on the meaning of life. Or the time left until dinner. It was all very monastic. The quiet was so marked that I suddenly missed my children’s shrieking, giggling, yelling, singing noisiness. Everyone was so… serious. Coming from a culture of passion, chutzpah and humour, I felt like I’d been transported to a foreign planet. Who knew en-light-enment could be so heavygoing? I wanted to throw my hands up and cry, “Zen-ough, already! Laugh a little!” I’ve always been interested in other people’s cultures. Through understanding we can respect and live peacefully with each other. Interestingly, encounters with other religions often make me reach for and appreciate my own faith even more. I always travel with my pocket siddur (you know, the one you got for your
bar/bat mitzvah?), and this weekend I felt myself reaching for it more often than usual. On Friday evening I wanted to light Shabbat candles. Apprehensive about leaving tea lights unattended in the small dorm room furnished entirely in wood, I asked the hostess if I could light them in the common area. “Of course,” she said, and showed me an appropriate spot. I lit the candles, covered my eyes and recited the blessing. When I lowered my hands, she gave me a small smile and wished me Shabbat Shalom! Clearly I wasn’t the first Jew to visit the centre. In fact, while I was there, I mingled with a few other Jews, a Muslim, a handful of Hindus, a collection of Christians, a bunch of Buddhists, and an assortment of Atheists. Everyone was very respectful and accepting of everyone else – we were all there to stretch our bodies and minds and grow in our own paths. As did others, I quietly sat out of anything that didn’t feel right for me. After a Shabbos schloff under a plane tree overlooking the exquisite Ixopo valley, I woke up feeling stronger in my own faith than ever before. In fact, my personal Havdallah ceremony attracted a few of my fellow brethren. One fascinated Jew had never heard Havdallah in her life. She said it was beautiful, and it may just have been the moonlight but I hazard I may have seen a tear gleaming in her eye. So only Hashem knows, perhaps that’s why I was sent there this weekend? It was certainly an experience. I’m glad that I went. The visit taught me a lot. Principally that I might want to relook at that rose-tinted dream of spending one year in Tibet, never mind seven. But also: • Exposing yourself to other cultures can help you to better appreciate your own. • There is beauty and G-dliness in every religion and when people seek out the way of G-d (or Hashem, or Allah, or Christ, or Buddha, or Harr, or The Universe, or Spirit, or • The Divine, or Higher Power) they come closer to Him, and to each other. • Too much time on the mat trying to awaken your inner soul can put your leg to sleep. • Pack an extra book. The silent evenings can get verrry long. • Sometimes we need to retreat in order to advance our understanding of our own lives. I came home rested and challishing to do something suitably histrionic, like talking before breakfast or walking through the house with my shoes on. My inner soul was delighted to be reunited with my husband and my shrieking, giggling, yelling, singing children. It was music to my ears …until next time.
May 2019
HASHALOM 11
PAST TENSE
PAST TENSE
By Pundit
presented at the end of April 1944, not forgetting 3 more jokes under the heading JEWISH HUMOUR.
In the last issue of HASHALOM Pundit claimed that this column was now up to date. Unfortunately your scribe was wrong. There is still another month to catch up. We are about to do that now. HASHOLOM – April 1944 – extracts. EDITORIAL - VIOLENCE IN PALESTINE. The Editor criticised the violent reaction of some “firebrands” to the outrageous White Paper of the British Government. WAR COMES TO MOUNT SCOPUS S. Ralph Harlow reviewed the history of the Hebrew University and how the War had affected its activities. THE LITTLE BROTHERHOOD Daniel Henderson told an affecting story about the crew of an RAF bomber who had to parachute from their plane and the subsequent funeral of a Jewish member of that crew. JEWISH HUMOUR told three Jewish jokes. I shall include one at the end, if space allows. Durban Jewish Club – SECTIONAL NOTES included a long TENNIS TALK BY “Rally”, the Canteen reported that during February 8808 men had been served, and that in March approximately 1000 members of His Majesty’s orces had attended a special performance given by Noel Coward, and a week later Miss Pnina Saltzman, the celebrated pianist had given a recital “to a crowded hall of appreciative listeners”, and under the heading of Cultural Spotlights Queenie Goldberg reported on a series of lectures on the topic “Our Heritage” which were planned for the immediate future. HASHOLOM – May 1944 – extracts EDITORIAL – CAST ASIDE COMPLACENCY Citing a recent violently anti-Semitic outburst in Parliament by Eric Louw (anybody still remember him?) the Editor warned lest Jews, in obsessing how the outlook for the future had improved, allowed complacency to outweigh the necessity to check and remove the ever-present danger of anti-Semitism. I AM A JEW-HATER This was the shocking title given to a letter received by the editor of “Frauds” Magazine, Los Angeles, which the Editor of HASHOLOM chose to repeat verbatim together with the editor’s reply. Here, slightly abbreviated, is a list of a 1944 American anti-Semite’s complaints against the Jews. 1. About 67% of all the wealth in the US is controlled by the Jews. 2. Large Jewish businesses hire only Jews and no Gentiles. 3. So many Jews flock to the most exclusive resorts which become so overrun by Jews that they are ruined for both Jews and Gentiles 4. Jews who frequent fashionable restaurants disgust by their loud talk, vulgar actions, bad table manners and extravagant display of diamonds. 5. A Jew is your friend only as long as he believes it pays him to be your friend. 6. Jews almost exclusively control the restaurants, cafes and night-clubs, movies houses and theatres and clothing businesses in America. 7. In business a Jew will give a better price or a better deal to a Jew than a Gentile at every opportunity. As you can imagine, these complaints were convincingly answered by the editor of Frauds Magazine. It seems to your scribe that the 21st century anti-Semite has used the last 75 years actively to increase the quality and quantity of his complaints against the Jews. Then there were reviews of a lecture by Mr. H. Moss-Morris on his recent visit to Palestine and of a very popular variety show called “TONIC 44” which had been
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May 2019
IN TOWN AND OUT Congratulated • Joe Kentridge on his engagement to Gertrude (Trudy) Harper • Jack Chanani on his engagement to Miss Schuster of Johannesburg. • Major and Mrs. R. Abrahams, Mr. and Mrs. M. Hersch and Dr. and Mrs. M. W. Kaplan on the birth of sons. • Harry Cline on his marriage to Lily Bass of Johannesburg. • Dave Sklarchik on his marriage to Frances Celine of Johannesburg. HASHALOM – April 1969 – extracts GENERAL HERZOG COMING TO DURBAN No editorial, but the issue started with a potted biography of General Herzog (Kol Israel’s military commentator during the Six Day War and the First Military governor of the West Bank) who would be in Durban to launch the I U A Emergency Solidarity Campaign. CLUB DAY gave a brief history of the foundation of Club Day and what was intended this year. THE MAYORAL LUNCHEON gave a brief report of that annual event which it was suggested was “fast becoming an institution”. That was the year of Trevor Warman, one of the most popular Mayors Durban ever had. FRIENDS OF THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY reported on the return, after the Six Day War, to the University and the plans for its future. And, what a surprise. As one opens the middle double page of this issue of HASHALOM one is faced with 5 photographs of the “OFFICIAL OPENING OF NEW BAR”. A careful search, assisted by the fact that all the drinkers depicted in the photographs are named, revealed, I regret to say, only 4, who are still resident in Durban. In alphabetical order, in order to avoid any farribels, they are Aubrey Josephson, Alan Magid, Elisha Puterman and David Rogoff. DAY OF REMEMBRANCE. YOM HAZIKARON The report was taken up with the “Address given by the President of the Council of Natal Jewry, Mr. Leon Lewis, a most moving address, containing as it did, an historical view of the tragedy of the Holocaust years. “DIE VADERLAND’ URGES JEWS TO SPPORT THE I.U.A. This was an English translation of the editorial dealing with Israel – South African relations which appeared in “Die Vaderland” on 12 April 1969 under the heading “Guests from Israel.” HASHALOM – May - June 1969 For the moment, your scribe is treating this as the May issue although it purports to relate to both May and June. The first several pages are understandably devoted to the story of DAVID BEN GURION IN DURBAN, coupled with a potted biography of the subject with due tribute to his many Zionist activities. SURVIVAL IS NOT OBTAINABLE AT BARGAIN PRICES Harry Katzew, a Jew born in South Africa contrasted (in the Afrikaans newspaper “Beeld”) the Jewish and Afrikaans claims to survival and suggested, fairly gently, that the Afrikaners sought survival by “job reservation, by hurts, by petty apartheid, by exclusion, by discriminating legislation” etc. were simply techniques by which “The other fellow has to pay the price of Afrikaner survival” – a prie Katzew suggested asked too much”. Pundit is surprised that in 1969 “Beeld” published this article. THIS IS A TRUE STORY Writer Beverley Frank about how she and a friend, lost in a Platteland village were assisted by the sole Jew who still lived there. And now I’m sure I’ve come to the end of my allotted space. So I’m afraid there’s no room for that joke. It really wasn’t such a good joke, in any case.
so the world won’t forget YOM HASHOAH 5 MAY 2019 10h30 THE DURBAN JEWISH CLUB 44 KE MASINGA RD DURBAN
May 2019
HASHALOM 13
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Gilad Friedman
UJC Purim party Purim this year saw close to 200 guests at the annual UJC Purim party. Seven Megillah readings were held this year, and once again the shul partnered with DJSS to fulfil the mitzvah of matanoy le’evyonim. We were entertainment by Igal and the wonderful outdoor activities for the children helped to create the most successful Purim party to date. Thank you to Toy Zone, Melissa and Doug, The Circle Café, Natures Pet land for their generous contributions and to the Brocha babes – who made an incredible function happen.
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May 2019
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Michael Greenbaum
Hachnasat Torah:
T
Celebrating with the Sacher Family
he Silverton Road Shul recently held a Hachnasat Torah (Dedication of a new Sefer Torah) on the occasion of the 75th birthday of DUHC Chairman, Maurice Sacher, who donated the new Sefer Torah in loving memory of his parents, Barney and Bertha Sacher OBM. The Sacher family sponsored all the events of the Shabbat including the Friday night Kiddush L”Chaim, Shabbat day brocha brunch and the Seudah Shlishit. The Friday night Shabbat service was led by Maurice’s son, Joel Sacher & the Choir. This was followed by an outstanding Kiddush L”Chaim. The Shabbat morning service was again led by Maurice’s sons, Barry & Joel, with the Shul Choir. At the Shabbat morning service, Maurice proudly carried the beautiful new Sefer Torah to the Bimah and the Parasha of the week, Shemini, was read from the new Sefer Torah by his son Joel. After the morning service, a lavish celebratory brocha brunch was hosted by the Sacher family in the Sacher Family Hall in honour of the Torah dedication ceremony in loving memory of Barney and Bertha Sacher OBM. At the brocha, Rabbi Zekry extended mazaltov to Maurice on his 75th birthday. He spoke about Maurice’s service to the DUHC over the past 30 years during which he has dedicated himself to the DUHC, giving of his time, energy and generous support to the Shul. He said that Maurice deserved a very special “yishar koach” as he combined this milestone in his life with the mitzvah of donating a Sefer Torah to the congregation, adding that this was very much in keeping with Maurice’s character and love of the Shul and Yiddishkeit. Rabbi Zekry praised Morry and his wife, Rhoda, for extending their love of Yiddishkeit in raising their sons, Barry, Joel and Dani and grandchildren to be Torah observant Jews. Maurice thanked Rabbi Zekry for his kind words and introduced his extended family including his sister, Sylvia, sons Barry, Joel and Dani and daughter-in-law, Tarryn and grandchildren. He thanked them all for attending this historic event in their family.
Vicky Gounaris www.djc.co.za
Cell: 079 073 5492
Maurice Sacher with Sefer Torah
This was followed by Maurice’s sister, Sylvia Goldberg, who spoke about the lives of their parents, Barney and Bertha Sacher OBM, who had emigrated from Eastern Europe to South Africa. She lovingly spoke about Maurice’s youth, his achievements and success in business and his admirable commitment to the Shul and the community. Maurice replied by thanking the speakers and Selma Lurie and Evon for their excellent catering which was enjoyed by the 130 guests. The community wishes Maurice Happy Birthday and thanks him for the beautiful Sefer Torah which will bring its holiness and light into the congregation.
May 2019
HASHALOM 15
COMMUNITY NEWS
PURIM
Purim this year at Beit David was well attended and enjoyed by all. We were treated to the musical talent of Igal Abergel and of course what would Purim be without the fancy dress parade. We had Egyptian Maidens, fairies, a policeman and Spiderman to name a few. Elizabeth Groot demonstrated her expertise as a belly
dancer and Rabbi and Ruth Avidan took first prize in the ‘old fogies’ category for their King Arthur and Queen Guinevere costumes. A big thank you to our Sisterhood and Karen Krausey for the delicious food which was enjoyed by all.
Poem by Mrs. Joan Truscott
Shelley Harris and Fran Myers from our Sisterhood
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May 2019
Our judges for the fancy dress parade, Larry Goldberg, Kendyll Jacobson and Daryl Harris
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Sylvia Collins
KZN PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
Circle café tea
On Friday 22 March 2019 our residents and staff were treated to beautiful music prepared by the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra with music from the Movies which they all enjoyed. The Conductor Lik Temming was happy to see Barbara Wachs and in her own words “Lik paid tribute to my late husband Fred who was a 1st Violin player, also to me and what we both contributed. It meant a lot to me and all in all a wonderful feeling”. This was the biggest group from the KZN Philharmonic to visit Beth Shalom.
Some of our residents enjoying being at the Circle Cafe for lovely tea and cakes. All of them thoroughly enjoyed their outing. Thank you to Judy and staff who really spoilt our residents.
Our residents were treated to a wonderful morning of entertainment by the KZN Orchestra at the Home on 22 March 2019.
GYM Refurbishment
The Gym has been refurbished by a very generous donation from Vryheid Shul and is now fully operational. The residents are thoroughly enjoying all the lovely equipment and both Mavis and Les are now so busy as all the residents are waiting to use all the new equipment. This has been so exciting for the residents to now use a completely revamped exercise room.
OUTING TO WILSON’S Wharf
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
There was an outing on the 27th to Wilsons Wharf – always enjoyed by those that go. This was Shlomo’s Purim Boat Ride and was a lovely way for some of our residents to celebrate Purim, both our Queen Esther’s’ the two Joan enjoyed this special outing. The two Joans of Beth Shalom
We would like to wish Mazeltov to all our residents who had birthdays this month namely: Mrs Valerie Driman, Mr Rodney Palte, Mr Isaac Levy, Mr Frank Schneider, Mrs Avril Binks, Mrs Erica Berko and Dr Elaine Goldberg.
May 2019
HASHALOM 17
COMMUNITY NEWS
18 HASHALOM
May 2019
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Cheryl Unterslak
Two of the Talmud Torah students exchanging their mishloach manot on Purim that they made in their Talmud Torah lesson.
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he first term for Talmud Torah primary school went well, and we continue our theme of learning about Jewish heroes. When the students are taught about the various heroes they are given a Talmud Torah booklet giving them lots more information of the Jewish heroes and the things that they accomplished. During the first term they learnt about Rabbi Aryeh Levin, Onkelos, and Queen Esther. In the second term they will learn about Areyh Lurie, Miriam and Aharon. Our intention is to make these names familiar to the students and that they should know how they were heroes of the Jewish people.
The students are also learning about various aspects of the chagim. Mishna learning continues on Saturday evening with Rabbi Garber, and all children are welcome. Please contact me if you can attend. Our high school students have been learning about the Holocaust, and some of the various personalities in depth. Talmud Torah is committed to teaching the high school students about all aspects of Jewish history, Chumash and Jewish thought.
May 2019
HASHALOM 19
COMMUNITY NEWS
• Work with dignity •
By Sandy Wolfe
KOL HA KAVOD to our beloved Masadaniks. They never cease to make us proud of this holy project and what is represents. Our Masadaniks not only work diligently and “Work with Dignity” 5 days a week, they also show their universal spirit of kindness. Chesed not only brings joy to the receiver, but brings joy to the giver. Never more so than the Masadaniks who donated their own clothing and bric-a- brac to Charities of their choice. Living with the consciousness of Chesed has enabled our Masadaniks to help many people less fortunate than themselves. They gave heartily and generously to their chosen charities which were: Hospice - Durban and St. Philomena’s Orphanage.
Nadine Govender – St. Philomena’s Orphanage
Heather Walker – Hospice with Generous Masadaniks The pride and dignity of Masada Workers is commendable and supports our Jewish ethos of giving and generosity. Thank you to the Masada staff, Sandy Getz, Sandy Wolfe, Zola and Dumisani for the outstanding work they do and our dedicated Volunteers Betty Levene and Cecile Levin. Once again…KOL HA KOVOD to our Masadaniks... you have done us proud!
Phillip Blumberg and Heather Walker - Hospice Durban
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May 2019
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 050768581, Branch Code: 051001 TAX DEDUCTABLE Donations can also be made at: 99, Bellevue Rd, Musgrave, Durban. Tel: 031-202-3419
COMMUNITY NEWS
Chabad of the North Coast
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habad in Umhlanga directed by Shlomo and Devorah Wainer, have been visiting Jews and Jewish families throughout KwaZulu-Natal for more than 25 years. Initially, it started by visiting the Jewish Community in Pietermaritzburg almost monthly. At these get togethers, the Wainers would share words of Torah, stories, anecdotes and discuss the upcoming Jewish holidays. They would provide mezuzas, books, tapes (then) other literature, Kosher foods and Tefillin. Wherever they went, they travelled in the Mitzvah Tank (Mobile Jewish Centre). This concept of outreach soon spread throughout KwaZulu-Natal and soon enough there were South Coast Get Togethers (up to 5 times a year), where the Wainers would meet as many as 40 Jewish people at a braai or picnic of some sorts. Strong relationships and long lasting friendships were developed, and soon these trips were being done up the North Coast and throughout the Zululand interior. As Chabad’s growth over the years developed, these road trips (Merkos Shlichus) were more difficult to keep up and would most likely need someone virtually full time. Shlomo would often bring Rabbinical students to assist him with his already heavy load. So in these latter years the road trips have been co-ordinated twice yearly, before Pesach and before Rosh Hashana. ”We have had great success with Merkos Shlichus” says Shlomo, “Jews all over are encouraged to strengthen their connection to Hashem, despite where they might find themselves.” This year, 2 weeks before Pesach, Reb Shlomo with his son Mendel,
By Shlomo Wainer
hit the roads of KZN again to Pietrmaritzburg, Hilton, Howick, Ladysmith, and Newcastle. There Jews there too. Even in the Drakensberg. In Dundee, Danhauser and Vryheid there were no Jews, but they also have cemeteries. So does Pietermaritzburg and Margate! “I have been visiting these cemeteries for close to 20 years. I walk around saying Tehillim, I check the cemetery is clean, maintained and orderly. I check the state of the graves and the gravestones. In recent years, before I get there I send out a message on social media asking to connect with family of loved ones buried there, especially Vryheid. The response is overwhelming. I send pictures of the gravestones to the family members, say Tehillim specifically at those graves. It’s like another whole community” says Shlomo. Over the years the Wainers have arranged Barmitzvahs, Brissim, marriages and yes funerals too. We look forward to continuing these road trips and meeting, as well as looking for Jews throughout KwaZulu-Natal, ensuring that they have a means to feel involved, to connect, a way to express their Jewish connection, to light Chanukah Candles, get Matzah and wine and have a Seder, hear the shofar, put up mezuzahs, have Jewish books, get Jewish literature and have a more meaningful way of Jewish Life. If you know any Jews in KZN, be it Pennington Mtwalume (we just met a man of 82 years there), Margate, Uvongo, Salt Rock ,Mtumzini, Richards Bay, St Lucia or Hluhluwe perhaps, please be in touch with our office on 031-5612487, email chabadnc@global.co.za or Shlomo24/6 - 082 550 0503
May 2019
HASHALOM 21
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Cheryl Unterslak The poem below was sent by one of the families that DIVOTE is
in constant contact with in Israel who have suffered from horrific acts of terrorism. The author of the poem is Rena Ariel who lost her daughter some years back when a terrorist broke into their home. It was the first day of school holidays for Hallel; her parents had gone to work and her two younger sisters were still at their school. The attack happened in the morning and although it was clear that Hallel fought bravely to fight off the terrorist, she was tragically stabbed to death in her bed. I have visited the Ariels many times in Bet El. They are a special family who live on a small wine farm with frequent tour groups and individuals visiting the farm. They are known for their HALLEL Merlot and often speak to their visitors of Hallel’s tremendous faith in Hashem. As you can see from the photo on the right, the Ariels presented me with one of these bottles as a gift and although I have not yet tasted it, I have been assured by many how delicious it is. I have been privileged to have met with the other families that are mentioned in the poem, all of whom are such beautiful, good, Jewish families living a Jewish life in Eretz Yisrael. Heartbreaking. May peace come soon. I just wanted. (Here in Kiryat Arba) I just wanted to play the piano But my teacher, Deena Horowitz was murdered. I just wanted to send my children to school But their teacher, Yaakov Litman, and his son, were murdered. I just wanted to send my daughter to Tehillim But Avraham Hasano was murdered. I just wanted a gardener to take care of my flowers But Gindi Kaufman was murdered. I just wanted to consult with a Torah scholar But Rabbi Mickey Mark was murdered. And now his son is also no longer with us. In the end I just wanted to get home safely and hug my daughter. But she, too, was murdered.
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May 2019
COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS
Union of Jewish Women
UJW of SA National Shabbat InterimThe Conference
“Stop doing and start being” was the theme of the 2018 Shabbat project. In order to do this one needed to CONNECT and the UJW JCF Challah Bake helped the ladies from our community do just that. The ladies were reminded that the Challah Bake is not really about the challah… it’s about Connecting as Jewish Women of Durban; Connecting with our Jewish Heritage by making challah together, an age old tradition passed down from generation to generation of Jewish women; Connecting with Hashem as we prayed for our families and our friends and for all who are ill and Connecting with The Shabbath… a day of rest, reflection and connections.
Chops glorious chops
Project 2018 (with apologies to “Oliver”)
The Pre-Pesach braai was again enjoyed by the Beth Shalom residents, the Masadaniks and members of the UJW.
The event 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 “Our” Linda Nathan – National Vice-President – addressing the delegates gave us all much food for thought. and the Durban delegates at the Conference – Linda, Tanya, Sue and Anita. 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……….
Special thanks to our very own master braai Chefs – Marcel, John and Martin, the entire Beth Shalom Kitchen Staff led by Freddie for ensuring a delicious meal, and also thanks to the staff for setting up.
e... t a d e h t e v a S
UJW 81st AGM Wednesday 29th May at 10 am May 2019 22 HASHALOM
December 2018/January 2019
HASHALOM 23
COMMUNITY NEWS
On Tuesday the 19th March, Akiva College celebrated the upcoming festival of Purim which took place during the school holidays. Each phase was given a theme and everyone put in loads of effort to dress up. The staff performed their hysterical annual Purim shpiel, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the whole school. Students all received delicious hamentachen, baked by Morah Dina, and swapped Mishloach Manot.
Morah Tracey with Tehila and Yehuda Friedman
Miss Calitz and her Grade 000 Class
Shay Stout as a dinosaur and Raf Davidson as a storm trooper
Liora Plen and Dani Burne eating Hamentachen
Eyal Scher as the Hulk and Shay Stout as a dinosaur
Layah Staychev
Ethan Plen as Clark Kent
Tehila Friedman, Layla Sevel and Alexa Giovannoni
On the 14th March the playgroup and Grades 00 – R celebrated the end of term 1 with an Alice in Wonderland themed garden party. Each child came in a fun hat and loved taking part in the photo booth. The children iced and decorated cupcakes, played games and danced to music.
Aliya Serpaul, Keemaya Naidu and Daniella Scher
Gabriella Pillemer and Shay Stout icing cup cakes
Michael Lebowitz
24 HASHALOM
Siphosethu Xuma, Keemaya Naidu, Kimaya Patel and Elior Mizrachi
May 2019
Michael Lebowitz and Raphael Levitan
Eyal Scher, Vihar Maharaj and Shay Stout
Raf Davidson and Kabir Mehta
Layah Staychev, Tehila Friedman and Layla Sevel
By Laurienne Baitz
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he Wizo women acceded to the pleading of the Durban menfolk and organised another “Boys Nite Out”. A magnificent event was held at the Durban Jewish Club and over 120 men attended. The evening started with shooters from Hooters, and was followed by an interesting and entertaining Whisky tasting presentation by Freddy van Vuuren. There was much laughter when Tracy Klass, the comedienne pointed out to guests of Orly Esses, that WIZO was not a short form for ordering whisky in Durbs, ie “we’ll have a wizo and water please”! The ‘wizo’ was chased down by a delicious Bunny Chow by Chef David and his team, and then followed by an auction of desirables and “must haves” by Jody Martin. A guest who will remain nameless very kindly modelled a spectacular piece of black lace lingerie that was on auction. A fantastic range of auction items was completely sold out, as very generous husbands and boyfriends dug deep to support the fundraiser. The evening was held to raise funds for WIZO’s projects, including the purchase of Wheelchairs Of Hope for children in desperate need. The generosity shown by the Durban community was overwhelming, culminating in the purchase of 40 wheelchairs by “menschedike” individuals. WIZO Durban is feeling incredibly proud and grateful.
May 2019
HASHALOM 25
Durban MAY 26 Durban Jewish Centre
2019
ONE NINE NO TWO TEAS REGRETS LUNCH PRESENTERS
PLEASE MEET OUR LAST TWO PRESENTERS Ayellet Black Deputy Israeli Ambassador
Rowan Polovin
Chairman SA Zionist Fed (Cape Council)
Title to be announced Ayellet began her assignment as Deputy Head of Mission of Israel to South Africa, Lesotho, Mauritius and Swaziland in July 2016. Previously she served in Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a variety of departments including Public affairs and EuroAsia.
Do not miss our EARLY BIRD SPECIAL - R175 Valid until Monday 13 May Tuesday 14 - 24 May - R220 Walk-ins on the day - R280
Israel in South Africa: the political, academic, social and media landscape. Rowan is the Chairman of the South African Zionist Federation (Cape Council), and the 2016 recipient of the World Zionist Organisation's Herzl Award for his commitment to the State of Israel and the SA Jewish Community. Rowan regularly writes for and speaks to Jewish, Christian and interfaith groups on Zionism, anti-Semitism, Jewish identity in the diaspora and Israel the Startup Nation.
Registration forms are available in the April Hashalom, on the Internet or at the Circle Cafe. For more information or help, Contact Rochelle on rachelputerman@gmail.com or 084 446 6362
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Norma Bloch Shalom, Decked out in our fancy dress outfits, we happily made our way to the harbour for our long awaited Purim cruise. “All aboard,” cried out Captain Shlomo. In shipshape formation: The Masadniks, a few residents from Beth Shalom, and the Eden pupils boarded the Sarie Marais cruise boat. Heave, ho and away we go! “We are sailing, we are sailing across the water across the sea.” It was plain sailing while we were in the harbour, so we bravely stood at the bow gazing out to sea, until the wind caused the still waters to become choppy and rough. Gingerly holding onto whatever we could, unable to find our sea legs, we stumbled back to our seats. The wind definitely had not been taken out of the sails of the crew. First mates Deni, Tammy and Igal entertained us with their melodious songs. The difficult part was staying upright while feeding our very hungry passengers. Their appetites had not been affected by the dipping and rolling of our vessel. We decided that the best way to stem the tide was to serve the delicious assortment of sandwiches, and the Hamentashen that Russel and his high school crew had prepared. With the wind in our sails we made headway and were soon back in the harbour. As we disembarked we realised we were all in the same boat and of the same view that this was certainly a Purim outing that would not be forgotten anytime soon.
Chef Russel the pirate
Queen of Hearts
Until next month when we celebrate our Seder on terra firma.
We are sailing
Beth Shalom residents enjoying the outing
Heave, ho and away we go
Batsheva and Talia
Eden Purim Cruise
We are sailing
Shaked and Lucie
Igal and Deni Enjoying the Cruise
May 2019
HASHALOM 27
May 2019
HASHALOM 29
COMMUNITY NEWS
By Jessica Stout Sadly this last month we bid farewell to the Lebowitz family. On the Shabbat of the 16th of March we held our final Cholant Club lunch with Rabbi Lebowitz, who started the Cholant Club, and his family. Rabbi Lebowitz and his family were a huge part of the Young Israel Centre family and we wish them well for their new adventures in Gibraltar. April started with a pre-Pesach Breakfast Shmooz. We bid farewell to Chometz waffles and had a “Matza”making competition. Children were timed from the moment they poured water into their bowls of flour and had 18 minutes to mix, roll out and bake their “Matza”.
Arielle Levitan with her Seder plate
Aylon Mizrachi with his baked “Matza”
Elior Mizrachi with her prize for the prettiest Seder plate
They also had the opportunity to paint their own Seder plates. A big thank you to the Durban Bnei Akiva madrichim who helped facilitate these activities. “Matza” makers
Ethan Plen, Daniel Meltz, Dani Burne and Tyra Nacken from Bnei Akiva
Eyal Klavansky painting his Seder plate Michal Dogan with her baked “Matza”
Cameron Wulfshon with Sivana Stout and Michal Dogan, ready to bake “Matza”
Ready to make “Matza”
Sivana Stout and Aviva Shapiro, ready to make “Matza”
Leah Elran with her “Matza” Netanya Dogan and Leah Elran painting Seder plates
30 HASHALOM
May 2019
Ezra and Raylene Levitan putting their “Matza” on to bake
Eyal Klavansky with his “Matza”
Cooking with Judy and Linda
Bright red tomatoes.... ROASTED TOMATO AND BRINJAL SALAD 6 firm red tomatoes ½ cup parsley, finely chopped 2 medium size brinjals 2 pickled gherkins, chopped olive oil & balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons chopped spring onions
2 cloves garlic, crushed juice of a lemon Ffeshly ground salt & pepper ½ cup oil feta cheese, cubed (optional) black olives
Halve the tomatoes through the middle -Slice the unpeeled brinjals into rounds Season the tomatoes and brinjals with a little salt & pepper and half the garlic and splash with a little balsamic vinegar - Place the tomatoes and brinjal on a greased baking tray and roast at 220degC for 10 minutes. To serve, arrange the tomato halves and brinjal slices on a flat platter and drizzle with the herb dressing. Sprinkle with a little extra coarsely ground salt and pepper and the feta cubes and black olives. Serve at room temperature. Dressing: Mix the chopped parsley, gherkins, spring onions, other half of the chopped garlic, the lemon juice and oil.
TOMATO, NECTARINE AND CORN SALAD 3 large firm red tomatoes ¼ cup finely sliced fresh mint 3 ripe but firm nectarines ¼ cup finely sliced fresh basil 400g tin whole kernel corn, drained ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 red onion, finely sliced ¼ cup olive oil
Slice the tomatoes and nectarines into medium size wedges. On a flattish platter, arrange the tomato wedges and nectarine wedges, then the corn and red onion. Sprinkle the salad with the fresh mint and basil, then mix the lemon juice and olive oil with some freshly ground salt and pepper and pour it over the salad. To make this salad a bit different, you can also add thick wedges of 2 avocado pears, or some cucumber chunks, or cubed mozzarella- whatever you fancy!
TOMATO, BROCCOLI AND CHICK PEA SALAD 1 tray small rosa tomatoes ½ cup canola oil 1 x 400g tin chick peas ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 3 cups broccoli florets 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon rind 6 spring onions, sliced 1 teaspoon honey
½ cup chopped parsley 2 teaspoons dijon mustard ¼ cup chopped fresh mint 1 large clove garlic, crushed 1/3 cup pine-nuts, toasted coarsely ground salt and pepper
Boil or steam the broccoli until almost tender. Cool completely. Arrange broccoli, tomatoes, chick peas and spring onions in a salad bowl or on a platter and sprinkle with the chopped parsley and mint. Just before serving, shake the dressing and drizzle it over the salad, sprinkle with the toasted pine-nuts. NOTE: Toasted slivered or flaked almonds are a good substitute for the pine-nuts. Dressing: In a bottle, combine oil, lemon juice, lemon rind, honey, mustard and garlic with some coarsely ground salt and pepper. Shake well.
May 2019
HASHALOM 31
Births
Mazeltov to: Issy and Maisie Shevil on the birth of a great grandson, born to Dean and Ilana Hack, a grandson for Barbara and Bernard Hack. Marsha Hack, Sandy and Ben Getz on the birth of a great/grandson born to Taryn and Avigdor Hack. Julian and Frances Mann and Paul Jacobs on the birth of a grandson/great grandson born to Lisa and Alon Meyerov.
BIRTHDAYS
MAY 2019 Date Event Venue 5 Yom Hashoah
DJC
7 Yom Hazikaron
DJC
7 Sisterhood Meeting
Back of Beit David shul
Mazeltov to: Marcia Saul on her 80th birthday. Bernhard Lazarus on his 93rd birthday. Anita Jocum on her 80th birthday.
8 Yom Ha’atzmaut DJC
Weddings
Mazeltov to: Ben Horesh and Natalie Kluk, their parents Ilan, Charlotte, Neville and Charise, on the marriage of Ben and Natalie in Israel.
DEATHS
Condolences to: Garth, Kevin and David Rapeport on the passing of their mother Justine. Ida Epstein on the passing of her sister Sylvia Coleman.
15
Sisterhood Bingo
26
Limmud
29
UJW AGM
Beth Shalom
DJC DJC
IMPORTANT MESSAGE: Please supply DATE and VENUE for events you would like to have included in the diary. 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.
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
May 2019